lead him back to water (2/2)

plaster and concrete infused with pigment from dried indigo leaves, ground kyanite, selenite, and sand on linen canvas. finished with iron oxide paint and a rust activator, creating a natural blue patina. mounted on maple wood within a poplar wood frame handcrafted by Connor. can be sold together or separately. 8w  x  8h  x 2.5 d

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We work on ourselves to help others and help others to work on ourselves. These two pieces were created a time of deep frustration and sorrow as I watched from afar someone I love deeply trapped in a relentless cycle of pain and abandonment. When to cling on, when to release? I have found my path; why can't they find theirs?

Each human experience is unique and colored by our individually formed perspectives, judgments, and interpretations. Even within the same family, events unfold differently in the hearts and minds of siblings. The poignancy and complexity of our relationships lie in the fact that only they comprehend the emotions stirred by a particular circumstance. And yet, their conclusions divide. It's a tussle with our emotional stability and reconciling the reality that each sibling is entitled to their own perspective; we witness the depth of their pain as they hope and wait for their parents to change. I have weathered this period of heartache over and over, as have those I have confided in who have faced similar circumstances. It is grieving for our loved ones to comprehend the sense of serenity we have fought tirelessly to achieve. This feeling has been reactivated over and over by time and celebration.

When we're in our own little egos, how do we know that that person isn't already doing their work? Sometimes, "helping" someone means giving them space...sometimes, you offer help simply by embodying authenticity and healing the traumas forged by your own experiences so that others may witness change and believe it is conceivable. The most effective strategy I've discovered in aiding others is to strive for genuine authenticity. This could entail sharing my trials and tribulations, navigating through them, or merely being present and offering a nonjudgmental ear devoid of unsolicited advice. The rest, well, is simply not my concern.

Diving into healing ourselves and our core beliefs and patiently nurturing our own growth while watching someone you love stay blind to reality is an indescribable feeling. Subconsciously placing expectations on the hope alone that if we focus on carving our own path, they might do the same; it's an indescribable feeling. An inner battle endeavoring to lead someone to see a situation through our perspective and what helped us heal, only to discover that they are not yet prepared or willing to receive the support. While keeping the knowledge in the center of my gut that I may not know WHAT this person needs to be happy or what they need to feel peace. Self-awareness is a cornerstone of all healing journeys. SELF-AWARENESS IS THE CORNERSTONE OF EVERYTHING. I force myself to examine my motivations when I extend a helping hand to others in every situation—a sister, a friend, a colleague, an acquaintance, a patient.

I must remind myself that authentic support means being there for someone without imposing our views, respecting their unique journey, and allowing them to evolve at their own pace. This piece underscores the delicate balance between the desire to assist and respect for others' autonomy. I wish for it to symbolize patience, empathy, and an understanding that true transformation stems from within. It is a gentle nudge that while we can offer guidance and support, we cannot compel someone to partake from a well of knowledge—they must make that choice themselves. To lead him back to water.

- Taylor Robinson, July 2024.