For as much as I enjoy following authors and bookstagrammers on social media, there are few things I delight in more than seeing some of the other artistic practices at work—be it musicians sharing their newest pieces; artists showcasing their drawings, paintings, and sculptures; or photographers posting elusive moments captured forever in time.
One of my favorite photographers is R.S. Johnson, a wildlife photographer from Nebraska. The little fox cubs, fawns, and sleepy raccoons that have been popping up my feed the past few weeks have been absolutely heart-melting (and making me a bit homesick at the same time).
One of my recents favorites is a fox in mid-hop. It’s not just the lighting and composition that make this shot, it’s the sense of awe that I feel and the questions it prompts.
What is the fox after? Is it playing? Is it secretly celebrating? Did something frighten it off-camera?
The image also evokes a tactile sense for me. The way the light hits the fur gives the fox’s coat a depth that makes it easy for me to imagine what it might feel like if it were to curl up beside me and allow me to run my fingers along the ridge of its back.
And, having grown up in countryside, seeing the bits of grass, mud, and old tree stumps in the background conjures up some very strong memories of rainy fall days with bits of lingering over-ripe berries hanging in the breeze.
If I stare at the image long enough, I can almost imagine the fox is practicing for an upcoming animal ball where toads sing in their deep throaty voices, crickets play in concert, and the wind breathes through the reeds. The next thing I know, my imagination has been primed, and my fingers are speeding away on another adventure of their own.
Writing as an art form
When we view art, in all its many forms, we are reminded that we all begin somewhere. Artists begin with drawing stick figures. Photographers take candid shots that have blurry focus. Musicians play endless hours of Hot Cross Buns. When we see art on display, attend events at music halls, or watch our favorite actors appear in blockbuster films, we don’t question the years of time and effort that go into their craft.
If you’re not extending yourself the same grace, perhaps it’s time to start!
So to all the creatives out there sharing your work publicly with the world…thank you for making it easier for me to explore and share a bit of my own, flaws and all!
—Jen