TREES, ART AND THE ART OF LISTENING
BY LORI BAILEY CUNNINGHAM My friend, Pamela Turczyn talks with trees. And they talk back. Yes, they do! I knew her art was extraordinary, which is why I invited her to allow me to include her work in my book, Mandala: Patterns of the Universe. But there is far more to this gifted woman than … Continue reading
FOREST BATHING
Urban Biophilia: The Tree Diaries If you are on Facebook, chances are good that you have seen images similar to this one, with a slogan about the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, translated as “Forest Bathing.” But what is it exactly? What are the benefits, and can we practice it in New York City? In short, … Continue reading
The Who, What, Where, When, Why and How
Introducing the new “Urban Biophilia: the Tree Diaries” column for New York Spirit: Who are you? I am a Brooklyn-based artist whose paintings express the underlying geometry that precipitates natural, living forms. My Infinite Qualities print series of floral mandalas explore how visual art can support the healing process and have been regularly featured … Continue reading
INFINITE PATIENCE
A maple tree with a special gift for it advised me that Patience has to do with one’s relationship with time; to cultivate Patience, one must be fully present in the moment. To do so, try silencing the inner monologue by first shifting to an attitude of open attention, as though you were listening … Continue reading
THE PRAYER TREE
This post is dedicated to Elisa Novick, who taught me that trees are individuals, each with unique personalities and gifts. A few months ago, I noticed a tree with the ability to support humans in creating coherent brain patterns. This is very useful for holding a vision or for prayer. I paid many visits to … Continue reading
A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH
Occasionally, I am asked how long it takes me to do a painting and, usually, there is a long pause as I grapple with how to answer. When exactly does the process start? When paint touches paper? This photo essay will reveal just how integrated the life/art process can be. The genesis for my mandala … Continue reading
art that supports the healing process 