Welcome to  First Friday at SpiritWorks

November 4, 6 – 9:30 PM

The Carter Building

Each month when I sit down to write my invitation to FF, I look at my art and I’m surprised at how it reflects where I am.  It often serves as an affirmation of the meaning that transcends what is happening on the surface of my days.  In October, I joined a group of artists (tippingpaintartists.com) who are working with downtown residents (raleighdla.com) and city government (godowntownraleigh.com) to put community art into empty storefronts.

My sense is that we are very guided in this effort, acting as voices for all who inhabit the streets of downtown.  The angelic figure (above) whose gesture leads us forward makes room for all of us within her cloak, inviting us with all our yearnings and concerns.  As in the second picture, we find ourselves surrendering together to the greater good that expresses through each of us.  Already I am grateful for the connections with people whose passion for service and activism inspire me to move from contemplation to informed action.

Also at this FF’s opening, I invite local author Kim Gibney, who will be signing her new mystery novel, Over the Edge.  When I asked Kim about her creative path, she answered:

I was first published for poems I wrote in the 4th grade and felt the rush when I saw my work in print.  My inspiration for my book came from ideas that I had collected for years.  Through lots of work and several editions I was able to craft those ideas into my first novel, Over the Edge.  I love to loose myself in a good story and I think I have accomplished that with this book.  Over the Edge combines love, suspense, and murder into the perfect package.  I hope the readers will enjoy reading it as much as I have loved writing it.

Kim and I look forward to seeing you on November 4.  I suspect that this is a time when you may also be experiencing an emerging in your life.  Know that you are loved, guided and safe as you find expression for what calls you forward.