The work of art either being planned for or being improvised, reveals the universe as the master of improvisation. The universe is dynamic and robust in its ways of supplying us with resources or using our potentials for good.
It reminds us to take a moment to reflect and get more out of what we already have. It treats us with fiestas when we indulgently overuse its resources. The universe goes along with what we do but never agrees when we exceed. The nature artistically flows and renews itself while artists capture a moment and freeze it in the shape of painting, poetry or music.
The artistic manner of universe in healing its wounds lies not only in reusing the utilised sources but also introducing new ways to enjoy natural resources. When nature is harmed, it mends its wounds by harmonising elements and redefining the scene. The nature acts like a song composer who writes the notes of existence by putting extra emphasis on some notes and omitting others. It also brings about new notes and takes a different pitch whenever necessary. The climax of this symphonic orchestra is a rich piece of music in the form of a new scenery or birth of a new species.
Within every individual there is a natural artist which acts the same as the Mother Nature. This “artistic self” can be the real healer for one's painful memories and experiences. The scars on the soul and psyche cannot be removed but they can be healed if the remedy comes from within.
Like the nature, artworks also show transcendental elements. Art has a magical touch on our soul which overlooks the worldly elements of our lives. This transcendental essence is a mystery which touches our hearts. The day we begin listening to the musical voice of nature calling out for our attention, we start learning about the spirituality reflected in art.
Art and mysticism, or in a broader sense religion, share five common features; connection with nature, presence in the moment, solitude, love and creativity. Art draws a connecting line between the world of matter and spirituality. It comes from the world within the artist, reflecting the essence of soul and manifesting a materialistic presentation. The route from the internal world of the artists to the external world where we all live and observe is a private and individual path for the artists.
Artists usually seek tranquillity and solitude to turn their intuitions into artworks. The meditated state of mind connects the core of heart and soul to the essence of universe. To go into solitude is a common practice among artists, spiritual leaders and even those who would like to pray in silence. This solitude unites the heart and mind with the transcendental. Art plays the role of a vessel for showing unity between the world of matter and spirit.
The artists take time to be at the present moment. The sense of carpe diem entraps the huge potential of the universe in a single moment created by the artist.
It is interesting that a common belief among mystics is to ‘live the moment’. Many of religions preach that thinking for a moment in silence is worth years of praying. The solitude and capturing the power of ‘now’ as an eternal moment in the universe triggers the power of creativity which is the intrinsic attribute of the one creator of the universe.
Dr Zahra Akbari
The writer is a researcher and art-therapist
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