An Easter Art Show

Took a stroll through an open-air gallery on the occasion of a dual celebration. The art on display had the thematic distinction of capturing the beauty of Spring and Easter combined.

The colorful presentation of the Master defied description. Suffice it to say that it was impressionistic par excellence. No amount of Monet could have rivaled what seemed priceless to behold.

Intricate, yet bold, flourishes of dynamism were bursting on the scene. Foreground and background uniquely positioned to create the overall effect of stunning visualization. Indeed, the play of light and shadow complementing the enhancement of terra incognita.

So taken, even absorbed, by this fanciful Expo was I that the sound of approbation from others seemed like mere chirping. I had the uneasy feeling of being alone in wonder, yet surrounded by those more at home with and protective of such a treasure.

I realized, only later, that the entire experience was a play for my passion as surely as it was a redemptive connection with the Passion Play. Life from death, beauty from barren landscape, and desire's rebirth were part and parcel of the transformative impulse of the creation. Hints of spiritual confluence permeated the base workings of the Artist that danced, not for attention but decision.

I was reminded that the cricket sings with its whole body. Holy, holy, holy!

Marveling at the ability to instill a sense of transcendent purpose through ordinary plot and prop, it became apparent that what is fallen is seed, just as what is exalted is dwarfed by the great expanse of sky.  A three-fold blossoming on extended branches acts as a point of departure for the grand scheme of things. The movement up and out holds both the drama and the tension of destiny forged in a crucible.

Can't you see that fulfillment is in the striving of the disciple who is shaped as much as shaper of the discipline? Can't you see that cosmic consequences for retribution are found in the defilement, even obliteration, of the clean slate?

From canvas to campus of the tried and true, all is but a footnote in salvation history. The real body of achievement, whole yet divided by time and place, is still to be celebrated, though fragmented and forlorn.

Sadly, then, we can only attend to the ceremonial build-up for the opening reception; if we're unaware of the implicit human thread of involvement in the mystery of Easter Art. But, for those with eyes to see, what an artistic stroke of genius!