As a child, I read stories to escape homework, chores, boring classes and family troubles. An applauded past time (except when I was reading through class or supposed to be doing chores, homework or sleeping…) because it excelled me through school, I loved reading fantasies, myths, fiction and historical fiction. I sought huge adventure books about horses and magic, knights and dragons, royalty and damsels all with a sprinkle of love in the center. I reveled in the brilliant scenes playing through my head of Eragon riding Sapphira into battle, Merlin learning the power of self confidence in Avalon, and Sabriel courageously learning the art of necromancy to save her father and challenge a powerful spirit. Stories full of ideas, dreams, hopes, critiques and experience to capture the heart and the imagination.
Many stories have played with the concept of portals and in-between lands of doors and pathways, including C.S. Lewis’ The Magician’s Nephew, The Adjustment Bureau, Treasure Planet, T.A. Barron’s The Lost Years. The center frame on each wall is a window to a new world, enchanting, magical and dangerous. They represent the many worlds we visit through books and are designed to create an environment of ethereal escape.
My series of digital images, Escapism, are inspired by my sources of comfort in dark times. Alongside stories, I found comfort in nature and horses. Being outside, watching the sun rise and set, climbing trees and mountains, hiking through forests, walking beaches, sunbathing, night walks and watching the stars always puts in the world back into perspective. This beautiful world was created for us to enjoy and it is so much bigger than any one person. My burdens would melt away as the presence of God’s display of beauty and power was a reminder that He was there to protect and guide me. Horses were the greatest companions. My favorite, Thunder, I would go out and just lay across his back feeling his strength and power carry me. I could tell him everything and he would just stand and listen or slowly pace, but never judge. We no longer have Thunder but I used a mare we raised, Ghost, in my image ‘Companion’ to embody their placid, non-judging faithfulness and loyalty. The damsel is strongly planted, standing firm against the wind while the colors, simplicity and lack of motion make the image very serene and calming.
Everyone needs to escape once in a while. It may not make the world right, but in measured amounts it is healthy, keeping the mind active and fresh while resting from everyday stress and worry. Besides, great stories always make good memories and I find myself today wishing I could relive all those wonderful adventures…if only I had the time. These images transcend time, place and all other realities, borrowing people, places, experiences and desires from my life to create a visual of the escape I longed for as the child losing herself in stories. This is the escape you should experience within this gallery.
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(For as long as you are the center of your world, hardship will always be devastating. When you humble yourself to step down and truly see that your only significance is your impact on others you will find contentment.)
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