In this conversation we have purposely sidestepped the potential pitfall of trying to define art – what exactly is it? – to instead explore how to think about art in a new way. Here in Portals of Perception we seek to escape the traditional way we might come into a domain, and look for perhaps an alternative dimension to bring into it.
Most of the time with art there are two main schools of thought: one will focus on the art, and the second on the artist. We can transcend this duality of approach, and invite another dimension, with the realization that all forms of art aim to transfer something, but what is being transferred? Art nourishes our deeper inner lives and awareness, so perhaps when the soul and spirit yearn for new connections and impressions, that's when we seek, and when we create, art.
In this conversation Aviv Shahar talks with Aud Wilken and Rita Lampen, two life-long artists, about their love of art, the source of their inspiration, and what is possible through a deeper awareness and appreciation of the true nature of living art.
We are exploring in this idea of art as a conversation a way to invite curiosity, inquiry, and a petition to that other realm so it can infiltrate through the process of art, and enable something else. Some will call it a muse; some will call it a flow; and some will call it presence. The name is secondary. We're talking about something that flows through, and the distinction we are making that is so important is a difference between, perhaps, dead art and live art.
Aud Wilken
It has always moved me deeply that the human can process such a myriad of life, so many things, and in so many ways.
To be in charge of the sensitive machinery that can feel, think, listen, absorb, know, and create. To come to know Life more intimately. To offer response - perhaps with music or poetry - to what is being felt and witnessed. How to best tune oneself to accurately translate and be with all of this without shrinking it? To offer it one’s best, with great trust in the senses and by practicing often - alone, and with others - to give voice to Life as it moves in and through and between us all.
Many small offerings, so more beauty, more truth and more goodness can land and grow.
Rita Lampen
Growing up in the Finnish countryside, immersed in the ever-varied life of the seasons and the elements, was a fortuitous beginning of deep intimacy with the planet that hosts and supports us, and a rich interactive affair of being human in this big picture within an even bigger picture. I recall the awe and wonder looking up at the stars as a small child, feeling an inexplicable longing for home beyond the tangible family home.
Visual art, movement and music have been recurring cyclic themes in my life over the years, on a journey of living in several countries practicing a variety of occupations in aspects of arts, crafts and
well-being.
Life can be an ever-moving adventure of "shedding skins" that have become outdated and constrictive, and growing new ones that are – hopefully – refining to be more resilient, fluid yet strong, better serving the purpose of this ongoing journey of discovery.
So – what next….?
Aviv Shahar
Aviv is the Founder of Aviv Consulting, helping leaders unleash strategic innovation, and is the author of Create New Futures: How Leaders Produce Breakthroughs and Transform the World Through Conversation.
