Nurture Your Nature: Artists as Messengers
Dear Tina & friends,
It was very serendipitous that I should discover this installation project, Thirst when I did. I had just finished writing, "For the Love of Trees, Painting and the Earth" and was feeling nostalgic about a favorite tree from my childhood when this project came on my radar.
Arts In Context - 404 THIRST (Trailer) from KLRU-TV on Vimeo.
Thirst is an art installation in Austin, TX that opened my eyes to the concern of drought in the world. 500 MILLION trees died in this drought~FIVE HUNDRED MILLION trees! I had no idea~that's a lot of trees! I learned that water is the #1 conservation issue of our time which honestly I am embarrassed to say I didn't know. Sometimes I feel helpless when an issue is so big and I don't know how I can help.
I realized that small adjustments I make in my home can have a big impact.
This is a great article about how to save water. It offers simple ideas that we may forget a long way, like turning the water off while you lather when washing your hands.
"I see artists as messengers, I think our job is to inspire, bring the message and to bring awareness to people, or help them start a conversation to think about these pressing issues." ~Beili Liu
I really appreciated the artists who contributed their time and engaged with the community in such a meaningful way for Thirst. There were so many hands that played a part in its creation: engineers, artists, site developers, etc... all engaging with the public in a meaningful way.
This project shows the creative process at its best.
I love how it shows when we work together we can invoke conversation in our communities that is often kept in the legislature.
When people become aware of issues they realize there are things they can do to help~however large or small.
I believe this creates positive change for everyone. Here is a link to the full video for Thirst. I would love to know if you have ever given much thought to drought and the impact it has on our trees and our lives. Is there one small change you are willing to try?
Cheery Smiles your way...
