Art and Healing......

Photography is a form of expression, it can create and enhance a mood the same way color and music does. Looking at a particular photograph can soothe a soul. This is why I am planning on being involved with the Healing Arts program with the Henry Ford Health System. The mission of this program is to create a restorative and calming environment for patients, visitors and staff by integrating the creative arts and aesthetic experiences into the healing process. I am a big supporter of this way of healing. Positive attitude plays such an enormous part in healing.

Another organization for the art and healing is the Manhattan Arts International. They seek to collaborative with other businesses and non-profit organizations who share thier mission to help spread the news about the tremendous healing benefits of Art. Manhattan Arts International's "Celebrate The Healing Power of Art 2010" is based on the belief that Art is a natural force that promotes heath and well-being for the creator as well as the viewer. Please visit thier website and blog and help support the Art of Healing.


Web site: www.ManhattanArts.com

Blog: HealingPowerofArt.blogspot.com

A Springtime Stroll.....

While enjoying the warm Michigan weather we've had lately, I decided to take a drive to the local greenhouse. The owners of Bogie Lake Greenhouse, Mark and Patty, are super people, as well as thier wonderful staff. Having an open inviation to come and visit and photograph in any of thier greenhouses, I took the opportunity. On a recent warm and sunny morning, I took a leisurely stroll through the greenhouses, taking a few photographs (including this gorgeous flower above), and appreciating the TLC put into every single flower, herb, plant....every single piece of greenery there. They should be very proud of thier accomplishments!

Northern Michigan

Spring is here and soon the towns, villages, and cities of Northern Michigan will spring back to life. It's like they go into hibernation in the winter, with snow blowing on isolated streets. Now that Spring is here, many folks are making plans to get out and enjoy the warmer weather. Many will be sprucing up thier homes and shop owners will be preparing for those who will visit.

I've been busy gathering my work to take to the owners of the Huron Lights Museum and Gift Shop in Alpena Michigan. My photographic artwork that is displayed and for sale at the shop, will have a nautical theme and a northern cabin type theme, many photographs to choose from. Also available will be notecards with my photographs printed on them. I am hoping to bring back the art of letter writing, a blank notecard is a perfect way to write a personal message to special someone. A handwritten note is still more personable and meaningful than an e-mail. What do you think?

One of the pieces that will be at the Huron Lights Gift Shop is the photo above of an old life boat which sits on the same land that occupies the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse. If only this boat could talk, imagine the stories it would tell.....

The Mackinac Bridge ~ Michigan

Curious......

Appreciation

A baby....a precious little being. Thier perfect little fingers and toes are counted right after they are born. Something many of us may take for granted.....our fingers and toes. These are the many things that help us with our daliy lives and our talents. Talent isn't something that we are born with, I believe, however, that we are born with a creative side that needs nuturing in order to survive. This is an opportunity to help us grow. There are many things that we are born with and unaware of, opportunities that we have for the rest of our lives. Our creative side shouldn't be taken for granted, but yet should be appreciated. It is a way to express ourselves, whether as an outlet or as a means for financial security, it helps us be who we are.

It is also important to appreciate the talents in others, what helps build thier character. For 2010, perhaps we can focus more on ourselves and others, to show our appreciation to our loved ones, to appreciate what we all have to offer in this world, and to appreciate our surroundings that God had given to us.

Happy New Year, may this year be the most prosperous for everyone!

The HVCA Holiday Art Market

The Holiday Art Market contains an amazing collection of many types of art such as paintings, fiber art, basket weaving, photography, and other works from the artists that were exhibiting at the HVCA Arts and Greens on November 20-22th, along with new items as well. Please join us on Sunday, December 6th for the official opening of the market and meet the artists, watch them demonstrate thier talents, and shop while listening to great music. You can also stroll through the Art Shop Gallery while you're there! So come and join us, finish your holiday shopping here with wonderful and unique gifts for everyone at every age on your list! The HVCA Holiday Art Market is open December 1st through the 24th.