Recently I've craved space. Space to patiently sit with my creative ideas. Moments (long moments) of active non-doing. I want breathing room. Just when I needed it, Kristin and Meredith sent this prompt: negative space. A place to rest. It's interesting how some things align (and others are completely out of whack). I'm grateful for this artistic cue. It connects my visuals with my intentions.
Negative space is a gift in photography. For the viewer's eye, it's a place to rest. No over-stimulation, just easy focus on the subject with extra peaceful space. Negative space is also a gift in life. Our busy schedules often allow no room--no room for life to interrupt. And life always interrupts. People get sick, emotions arise, cars don't start, accidents happen, bad things happen to good people.
If we don't actively make space, we can feel assaulted by life. (And if we incessantly do and distract when we have space, we can feel empty.) But with precious breathing room, we can help others while taking care of ourselves. We can experience life rather than racing through the day. We can know we're okay in this moment, with this breath. It might seem like everything's gone to hell, but really, it hasn't. If we find make the space, then we have time to reflect.
This week I've tried to stay very curious, especially when I have breathing room. What's the state of my heart in this moment? What am I feeling? What actions give me energy and what actions drain my energy? What am I projecting on others that's actually my own internal storm? How can I stay true to myself while navigating a new creative path?
It's been a lovely (and difficult) week of reflection. Only possible because I made space.
I loved this post. Finding space is so different than making it. I love these photos of you.
ReplyDeletethanks, cathy. i always love when you stop by. your support means a lot.
DeleteDear Joy,
ReplyDeletethis post is hitting a nerve. Space as a theme to ponder is showing up double this week for me: at now you and in "Seeing drala" the ecourse by Julie Einstein on Contemplative photography I`m currently taking (i can highly recommend it) On the contrary my schedule doesn`t allow for much space. But now your post is making me pause, it`s about making space and not waiting for space to find me. So I`m going to make space to be and breathe. Thank you
elke, it's good to hear from you. i wondered if you were experimenting with contemplative photography (your recent images exude mindfulness and a new take on basic elements). i'm glad you feel motivated to make space for yourself. you certainly deserve it.
DeleteBeautiful. I feel so much peace here.
ReplyDeleteHoney. Your arms are cut! Is that all yoga or do you do weights? I love the definition!
bella, you are so kind! the definition in my arms comes completely from pilates and yoga, no weight lifting (except the weight of my own body). thank you for noticing. :)
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