World On Fire

It is forewarned to those who don't wish to read semi-social/political blogs.

Those who know me personally will not be surprised to hear that along with my love and appreciation for the beauty of the world around me I am equally saddened by the state of the world and environment.  Recently I have felt torn.  Over a decade ago  I shifted towards landscapes as my own centering device. Recently,  I decided to engage more fully in my community/world, help to push and prod it  towards a better place.  As I thought about how I could use my art for this, I came up with a few ideas.    I often reflected my sentiments about society or the world in my art when I was in my 20s and 30s.

Personally, I enjoy interesting, alluring art.  As for 'political art,' I most often agree with the artist's sentiment,  but am rarely  moved in the manner of less specific pieces.  There are some great political artworks; Guernica is a classic example of a heart-wrenching statement.    So, could I create alluring art with a message about the pending doom of our planet, on a regular basis?  Additionally I need my art to be my safe place, my release, so that I can possibly be a productive person.   To be honest, creating art is so satisfying at times it feels self-indulgent.  I don’t think I have the strength to focus on the environmental or societal crisis in my artwork on a daily basis. 

 Therefore , I have decided that I will contribute a minimum of 10% to the planet, who is the Mother of us all.  My current donation target is Environmental Advocates NY.  https://eany.org/healthy-communities/