The Power of Light

“When to the sessions of sweet silent thought

I summon up remembrance of things past,

I sigh the lack of many a thing I sought,

And with old woes new wail my dear time's waste:

Then can I drown an eye, unused to flow,

For precious friends hid in death's dateless night,

And weep afresh love's long since cancelled woe,

And moan the expense of many a vanished sight:

Then can I grieve at grievances foregone,

And heavily from woe to woe tell o'er

The sad account of fore-bemoaned moan,

Which I new pay as if not paid before.

But if the while I think on thee, dear friend,

All losses are restor'd and sorrows end.”

- Shakespeare’s Sonnet 30

In the past several blog posts, we have encouraged you to think about why you do what you do and reflect on the meaning of your actions. As we have prepared for the Light v. Dark Art Show & Wine Tasting over the last month, we have focused on the contrast of light and darkness and how it is present in our lives and in our art. In this contrast, we often find perspective and inspiration for both life and art.

Exploring art and your inner artist is about taking a broader look at the world and incorporating all elements - sights, sounds, and sensual experiences - into your understanding. Art, whether it be a painting, a sonnet, a song, or an artfully prepared meal, conveys feeling and explores the human experience, both the light and the dark.

Shakespeare’s Sonnet 30, for example, explores the notions of sorrow and regret that color many of our canvases. It further highlights the fact that perception is a huge part of survival. When we reflect on the woes of our past, everything may seem awful. Dark. However, as the last line indicates, “but if the while I think on thee, dear friend, all losses are restor'd and sorrows end.” Light.

We are a week away from the Light v. Dark Art Show & Wine Tasting on Thursday, May 1st. Allison Fowler and David Robbins have captured this contrast of light and dark in their paintings, which will be on display for the first time. These paintings deliver emotion to which almost anyone can relate. Some will see the joy in the pieces. While others, will focus on the undertones of sadness. We promise you, however, that if like us, you have considered the significance of light and dark and the parallels in life, you will be captivated by these paintings.

Find your perspective.

Paint your day!