unwrapping some ancient memories

On a recent chilly Vermont afternoon I had the pleasure of visiting Elizabeth Bunsen’s studio to unwrap some “bundles”.  I was honored that she saved them for me.  I truly understand how much creative restraint it requires to not open them up right away.

They are so mysterious…every single time.  I can’t really explain what they feel like—an ancient scroll, a map, a message from ancestors, a signal from nature, a calling, a memory, a longing…they’re so peaceful and yet a little haunting as well.  I told you that you that it’s nearly impossible to describe what it feels like to unwrap these bundles.

I’m much better at showing you than telling you.

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The complexity of memory.

Today I’m sketching ideas for a project with another artist who grew up on the prairie.  Elizabeth Bunsen grew up in an even smaller town than I did in Nebraska.  We met last fall and realized that we had a lot of interesting things in common.  I’ve been trying to get very focused on my prairie stories and I’ve realized how complex my memory is these days.  Things come and go from the forefront to the back burner in a flash.  It’s an interesting process and I’m curious to see where this creative endeavor takes us.  I guess closing in on 50 is the perfect time to take a look back.

lillibridge complexity of memory burke south dakota