(Originally published on my Facebook page on February 19, 2019)
One of my favorite sculptors, Constantin Bracusi, was born this date in Romania in 1876. While I like his work, I am more drawn to his vision. He observed, “What is real is not the external form, but the essence of things.” In describing a fish, he said if he made fins and eyes and scales, he would arrest its movement, adding, “I want just the flash of its spirit.”
His words challenge me as a sculptor, but they challenge my spirituality even more deeply. He expressed what I tried to see as a Social Worker and mirror my Quaker faith tradition of seeking that of the Divine in everyone.
When I vacuum the sawdust from my hair (yes, literally) and venture beyond the cocoon of my studio to walk around in the world with other human souls, I often forget how to see. I might as well have sawdust in my eyes. When I notice hair, clothing, status or even behavior, I know I am only seeing the external form. It takes real practice and intention for me to see the true Essence of others. Or myself.
Brancusi described this vision about his sculpture work. A long time ago, another well known woodworker talked about this in his second career work as well. In honor of both of them today, I will try to see the true Essence of those I meet, of myself, and especially to envision the beautiful, shining, pure and true Essence of all of you who support and encourage me.
Peace and Joy,
Jeff
