An Exploration of Balance

Making art from found objects in nature.

Mobile-making has become somewhat of an obsession of mine over the past year. Yes, I like beauty, and nature, and peace… all of which factor into the mobile-making process. However, there is something more, something behind the scenes, which is even more compelling to me about this whole adventure.

For me, each mobile begins with time spent outdoors, walking the beach, through forested trails, or just around the neighborhood. I use this time to be aware of my surroundings, to listen to the questions or concerns stirring inside me, and to be open to new answers.

Inevitably, some object will catch my attention: a feather, a stick, stone, or seed…. And even other things, less predictable. I let my feelings guide me. I let curiosity be my impetus, and I collect what I find.

Upon returning to my space, I spend time sitting with the objects I have collected, as well as objects already in my collection. I make space for intuition to guide my attention. I feel and observe the qualities of the objects before me and begin to explore the relationships I see between them.

Eventually, I see and feel how two or more objects “fit” together. Each brings context to the other, and through their relationship some aspect of truth is revealed to me. This new object becomes a component of the overall conversation I have with my evolving creation.

Contrary to the norm, I do not have a destination in mind at the outset of this creative process. However, by paying attention to the details, the nuances, and the impressions I get from each moment, the process itself informs me of the destination by the end. Then, upon reflection, I understand the wisdom of my higher self, God, Spirit, and all things beyond the mind.

Creativity, for me, is a conversation with the ineffable. It is the opportunity to spend time within a question and receive answers which go beyond the scope of my own conscious awareness.

In accordance with the statement: ‘As above, so below’ the process of creation is not limited in scope to the creation itself, but reflects a larger truth I bring into my life, and practice. A broken stick, bolstered by a strong one, speaks of love, support, and helping. Sometimes we are the strong one, sometimes we feel broken. When the two are joined we merge the energies of faith with compassion. We can find new hope from hopelessness, or discover the enduring peace which comes through service to a higher cause.

All in all, this process is endless. There are always new objects, new relationships, and new lessons to be learned. And so, in deference to this mystery, I continue to walk…