Expressions of Empathy for Nature and Human Nature
Edi Matsumoto, David F. Burke, and Marta Gonzalez are featured in this article for having received Special Recognition Art Awards in “The Healing Power of Elements: Earth, Water, Air & Fire” juried exhibition. They are being recognized for their unique artistic expressions that reflect deeply felt empathy for nature and human nature. They serve as important role models for embodying the idealized application of creativity.
As the curator for the exhibition I visited all artist entrants’ websites. I was impressed by how these three artists, in their own unique ways, exemplify their steadfast commitment to serve others. Their actions are in alignment with the mission of The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS initiative to bring positive change to the world and that art serves as a catalyst for healing individuals, society and the environment.
It is an honor and pleasure to share their art and information about them; however, this is only a brief introduction. Please visit their websites to view more of their art and learn more about them. Contact them directly with inquiries to purchase and/or exhibit their art.
Edi Matsumoto
Edi Matsumoto was born and raised in Japan and earned a B.A. degree in Anthropology from Tsukuba University. She traveled extensively throughout S.E. Asia and served as a volunteer at the Mother Theresa’s Home for the Dying Destitutes in Calcutta, India. She then came to the U.S., earned a Master’s degree in Nursing, and has worked in the healthcare field for nearly 30 years.
In 2018, Edi earned her second Master’s degree in Fine Art from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. She has won numerous awards and has exhibited in many galleries and museums including the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, the Triton Museum of Arts in Santa Clara, and Pacific Grove Art Center, and more. Her art has been featured in Fine Art Conoisseur and American Art Collector magazines, among others.
With her entries to “The Healing Power of Elements” competition Edi wrote, “I spent thirty years in healthcare, advocating for women and minorities who suffered from mental and physical illnesses. Now as an artist, I paint female figures to empower women, representing their innate connection to the elements of the universe. These figures are reminders of our inner goodness, beauty, strength, wisdom, and life force. I encourage women to find the goddess and warrior within them and use their power to change the world around them with their love and courage.”
As an artist who possesses a background in healthcare, Edi currently divides her time between creating art and coaching others to discover their creativity.
Visit her website: edimatsumoto.com
David F. Burke
For David F. Burke nature is a major source of inspiration in addition to his personal associations, ideas and his perceptions of the world. He also loves to paint portraits of humans and animals. He explains, “I’m drawn to forms that illustrate the connection between human consciousness and Nature, and that point to that greater mystery beneath the manifest world; to explore how visual stimuli can take the mind beyond our everyday state of consciousness. My goal is to share that sense of wonder and connection to a greater wholeness through visual media.”
When David steps outside his studio he is busy creating outstanding public murals. He created a mural for the Batavia Community Garden in Batavia, NY through a grant they received through GOART!. In 2023 he collaborated with several artists and contributed his artistic talent to the Warehouse/Art Installation/Music Venue that came to be known as The Harve in the Harvester Center, Batavia, NY.
With his entries to “The Healing Power of Elements” juried exhibition David wrote, “My artwork is primarily inspired by Nature, so the elements are an integral part of it in many ways. I paint mostly with acrylics in figurative and abstract expressionism. “Rootman” leans toward Earth.
By creating message-driven works of art and placing them in the public arena David is participating in the positive steps of collaboration with other artistic individuals. He is also raising awareness. He knows the importance of bringing art to the people — beyond studio and gallery walls.
Visit his website: davidfburke-art.com
Marta Gonzalez
Marta Gonzalez is an abstract artist who conveys the evocative undercurrents of nature and human nature using mixed media. She explains “I am fascinated by what is hidden from our direct perception, whether it has to do with nature, the energies surrounding us, or the unconscious mind.”
“Infinitude” is a painting from her “Vital Elements” collection which was selected for “The Healing Power of Elements” exhibition. She wrote, “I explore the experience of ‘existence’ with the representation of the four elements, which, accordingly to Buddhism, make up all things. In humans, they shape us on a material level but also constitute the energies that infuse us with life, manifesting themselves in different points of the body, emotions and mental states. In my collection I explore these essential components, their characteristics, associations, and the emotions and sensations they bring to us.”
Marta earned her BA with Honors BA in Graphic Design at the University of the West of England, Bristol, UK and studied Abstract Painting at Escola de la Dona, Barcelona, Spain. In 2022 her art was selected for “The Spirit of Resilience” juried exhibition presented on this website.
We can expect Marta to continue to use her artistic talent and understanding of spiritual principles and create aesthetically beautiful healing art to guide us on our path to transformation.
Visit her website: martagonzalez.art
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