Art as Solace

Flathead, ca. 1900, 1986..01.89, sketch by Roberta Jones-Wallace

I think of a past time, when I had made a move across the country to “follow my dream,” and of feeling lost, without a job, without a community. The local art museum there, had a free day on Thursdays, which is when I would go. I would find solace in two pieces of art there, both sculptural—both by unknown artisans—both centuries old. They helped me transcend my loneliness and pain, gave me space outside of myself.

Today I still find solace and joy in the creations of others. There is so much story and life, the human connection that transcends time and place.

Haniwa Horse, Japan, Tumulus period (between 500 and 599, not MHS, sketch by Roberta Jones-Wallace