A Spiritual Journey | Artists Seeking to Make the World Evolve Through Art June 20 2016 3 Comments

I have been on a spiritual journey through artistic expression for over forty-eight years now. Growing up in Ridgefield, Connecticut, always sketching or painting my impressions of the physical world around me. My view of this material world expanded my connections after the tragic death of my father in a plane crash and my brother’s murder. In living through this loss and violence, my mission in this life is to plant the seed of peace and unity through art revealing the physical and spiritual worlds are one.  To me Governments that separate us are only an illusion, we are one family.  In seeking out this spiritual journey, and unity, I have connected with artists internationally who are also seeking to make the world evolve through art.  I just returned from Lebanon, where I have met artists using their work to make a positive change in the world around them.  I implore each of you to connect with them, their projects, and others through social media (see links below).

Yesterday I met with Katrina Koerting, a  local reporter, and told her about my experiences in Lebanon (link below). Via Skype I also introduced her to my son Cody & to Razi (above left) who is one of the Syrian Artist's I've come to know. We spoke about the need to find peace and brotherhood through art. Razi told her about his art and the situation he is going through, living day to day. He is an artist and writer who has escaped from Syria, who now lives in a small studio in Beirut, where he is currently painting his heart out. The pain of missing his family and friends, all that he has been a witness to, is reflected upon along with the power of survival in his beautiful paintings of flowers that have both bloomed and gone by. He said that there is a hope of rebirth and new life someday..but the blooms he has painted on his canvas have died now.

There are so many connections between us, the world is too small a place not to look for them. I look forward to bring this experience to my canvas, to sending work to Beirut Art World for donation to their NGO work.  How profound it is the artist’s mind and the journey of mourning the precious loss of life and freedom.  A painted record in the memory of our cultures.  And as our precious little world hangs in the balance between the forces of Light and darkness. I would implore every Artist, Writer, Musician to reach out to the world around you, and inspire the minds, hearts and souls of Humanity to live in peace and harmony together.

Links to the online article:  http://www.newstimes.com/printpromotion/article/New-Milford-artist-visits-Lebanon-to-spread-love-8312048.php?cmpid=fb-tablet the article made the front page that I've scanned in and is displayed below, but please also share the DNT link to support the writer & the paper- print news papers need our support too.

Links I would like you to read & share- All important artists working in Lebanon everyday through their artwork & projects to help the community & the refugees who live day to day there.  Also UN reports & projects.

His works come together, forming an artistic garden on canvas. One, two, three flowers, or an entire floral collection, In Bloom expands, grows and inspires. Life, hope, flowers, they all scream silently, raging against our reality of sadness and gloom." https://www.facebook.com/events/1710430962542677/ 

The Dove of Peace December 12 2015

I can see with all the divisions in the world today that hatred and rumors of wars have become the only word shared. 
I would implore all to remember the most incredible news that came to our planet roughly two thousand years ago. His message was for every soul on Earth. He came in peace, with love in his heart for every person, despite social standing or religious beliefs. His message is profound and all encompassing.
His great revelation is an eternal message to Humanity. GOD is a loving force encompassing all of creation. We are His children and through Him, we are ONE. 
Our species will evolve through this Living Truth.

A Message to Share Through My Recent Painting "Celebration of Life" September 04 2015

I am a painter with a message to share, through my work and my vision.
I look forward to meeting new people at all the Art shows that I exhibit.  In fact this weekend you can find me at BA Wygant at Meet the Artists & Artisans 

My goal is to plant the seeds of Faith and Hope and Brotherhood. We are so blessed to be here now. Each of us has an opportunity to plant the seeds in this glorious garden for the evolution of life on this beautiful planet.  "We can still plant a smile" Dr Ahmed from Syria can't practice in Lebanon, but he still does what he can to help those in need. Each and everyone of us can do our part - even here and now we can share their stories.  Here is his: Lebanon: The Natural Humanitarian

Be here now in this moment, within your surroundings & community.  Immerse yourself in the natural world- It is around you everywhere, be still and listen. Hear your mind and soul drink in the bird's song, the crickets laugh, feel the gentle breeze on your face. Shine in God's loving embrace. We are one in this eternal journey through life, connected by His Light our species will evolve- together! 

I do my best to capture this in "Celebration of Life" my latest oil painting on sculptural base, you can currently see it on display at The Gallery At Kent: 

BA Wygant's Visions of Natural Energy | Amagansett Fine Arts Festival July 01 2015

Unity.Gallery Presents a Virtual Exhibition 

Please take time to tour this wonderful virtual collection of art on the Virtual Exhibits Page.

Also This Weekend!!  Meet me live & in person at the Amagansett Fine Arts Festival

July 3 10AM-6PM
July 4 10AM-6PM
July 5 10AM-5PM
15 Montauk Hwy, East Hampton, NY 11937
http://www.amagansettfinearts.com

I will have my latest work on display:

"Celebrate the Balance"

Oil Painting on Sculptural Base

Among the Sounds of Violence In Baghdad, Wasfi and His Cello Cry Out in Defiance June 08 2015

I was listening to NPR this morning about one brave Artist talking about his journey and taking a stand against terrorism in his hometown of Bagdad and the story of his defiance of the senseless murder of his fellow citizens, while drinking their coffee in a local coffee shop. He was saved by a twist of fate, as he was late for his coffee that day. I believe that God intervened, and planted a seed of Divine Grace into his heart and mind. He took his beloved cello to the cafe where this act of violence to place, and played with a song from his soul for peace, in his mourning he planted a seed of Hope for Humanity.

No mater what you believe, I am calling for ALL Artists to reach out in peace and brotherhood for the love of Humanity. We are killing each other and our planet, & for what? Power, more money? It is time to stand up, be counted in the power of Light.  Please look at the deeper reality. Stand back, see this with better eyes. Our fragile little pearl, fighting for her life while we fight with each other like spoiled children.  Humanity has always been able evolve and learn from our mistakes, however this time I hope we do not destroy our selves or our home before our evolution is complete.

WE are one family, the children of Earth, see the Light in each other so that our species will evolve together.

NPR: http://www.npr.org/2015/06/08/412284066/amid-violence-in-baghdad-a-musician-creates-a-one-man-vigil

Origins of Inspiration | New visions of BA Wygant straight from the studio May 16 2015

As I interact with people in relation to my art I often am asked, ”Where does inspiration come from and what encourages you?” Often I’m asked this question with a hint of desperation. People are always seeking out a way (sometimes through my work) to escape from reality, to break out and unleash a sacred power within to find ultimate peace. When I see this, the mother instinct in me wants to give them a hug, however as I cannot do that in the moment or here with you, let me offer up some advice instead along with my most recent visions. There is no break from reality – for me this is reality- there is energy out there and we only need to realize it and harness it within our everyday lives to find truth & inspiration.

Everyday the Earth spins on and as our days get more complex the strain on our souls increases. The state of our reality is bleak if you tune into 24-hour media outlets and zone out. It’s hard not to get caught up in the day-to-day drift into a grey moonscape as the lack of human empathy that is depicted in modern life becomes more prevalent. Many people have virtually closed their eyes to the possibilities beyond. Little do they know a vibrant energy filed universe is shining all around us and there is more then just what this current perceived reality has to offer.

In the dark ages many felt there was a “divine inspiration” that only a few artists and artisans could tap into. Many found that this inspiration could be channeled and maintained with in religious settings, this is why we have so many beautiful works in old world religious locations. However as we slipped into the new age of enlightenment we all found the possibilities are within each and every one of us to believe in ourselves, and share a vision, what ever it is. Your vision is your truth so you only need to believe in yourself to express it. This expression can be on the canvas, but it could also be in your writing, photography, printmaking, or in that dress that showcases your embroidery.

Today I share with you my latest visions and my most recent endeavor through tapping into and exploring this universal energy. In my most recent piece “The Good Shepherd” I have an interpretation of the warm hug Earth receives everyday from our universal creator. Our Shepherd is ushering us along, even me as I paint this from my studio in the quiet hills of Connecticut. I am moved to share with you my inspiration that we will find a beautiful salvation every day & all the days ahead as we spin endlessly through time and space. Be true to your self, and believe in your own muse, abilities, & truth. Keep your faith close to you and live in Peace.

These things will help in your quest to uncover your own well of inspiration.

All the best,

BA

“The Good Shepherd”

"Home"

"The Thief in the Night"

Earth Day is Every Day | BA Wygant's Thoughts on Earth Day & a Recent Interview by Marshall Masters April 23 2015 1 Comment

Bette Anne Wygant Earth Day 2015:  

"This is a time for every person on this planet to stop and reflect for a moment about the state of the health, and the future of our beautiful Mother Gaia. I have seen many troubling changes, on so many fronts and issues since I was a young child. The problems are growing very quickly now, and with more urgency."

"I must ask, what are we leaving for the future generations? With the pollution from the Nuclear disaster in Japan, the contamination of the Pacific Ocean, massive kills of many species of Marine life, now the closure of the fisheries in California, I must ask, Will there be future generations?"
When scientists have to worry about losing their funding for telling the Truth, it is time to wake up Humanity and consider making some very serious changes to protect life in this century and beyond.""Are we to let the survival of this planet depend on the leaders of Industry that tell us there are no Earth quakes near fracking wells and that the water aquifers are not corrupted by them? We need to realize that we are running out of time.  Our Grandparents left to us the wonders of our National Parks, with the love and respect of our Mother Gaia's beauty and reverence. What are we leaving for our children? Will Humanity become part of the extinction of Species? Only time will tell."

These and other topics are also discussed in Bette Anne's recent 30 minute interview with Marshall Master who has been a past contributor on CNN.  During the course of the interview Bette Anne Shares her experiences and observations of life in the physical world, and our journey home which inspires her work.  Weather painting in the 70s or today her mission remains the same; Painting & sharing the light!! I hope you appreciate & enjoy this emotional and inspiring video:

Danbury News Times Interviews BA Wygant | Buy The Sunday Paper! January 30 2015 5 Comments

Last week I had the chance to sit down and talk with Linda Koonz, the features editor of The News Times, and share my journey into artistic expression.  For over 48 years (photo on the left is from my old studio in Candlewood Isle) I have been exploring the link between the physical and spiritual world and that energy that connects us to each other and to God.  

We spoke about my interpretation of our travel through time and space, the concept of the earth being one seed in a vast cosmic infinity & our life here on this planet as just the first step in an infinite journey home.
 It was an interesting discussion spanning a few hours.  We also touched on the need to care for our planet, and the need for human kind to do our part in helping to stop the decline of its health.  I hope my work
inspires this in people and I'm looking forward to this Sunday's paper where this vision may reach others! The published article is below- I look forward to your comments:

Art in Public Spaces: A Final Show for 2014 December 22 2014

Through Writing and Art: Ken and I Heal November 07 2014 2 Comments

Here you'll find reflections by Ken Fortenberry on his project: 

http://www.romanceoftheskies.com

"I created this website in memory of my father, second officer William H. Fortenberry. It is dedicated to the memory of the 44 people who perished on Romance of the Skies" – Ken H. Fortenberry

From Ken Fortenberry; "On the afternoon of November 8, 1957, Pan American Airlines Clipper “Romance of the Skies” vanished in mid-ocean, at the so-called point of no return, halfway between San Francisco and Honolulu.  The pilot’s last transmission, at 5:04 pm local time, indicated that all was well onboard the giant and luxurious Boeing 377 Stratocruiser."

Here is my painting for their salvation at sea "Amazing Grace"

 http://www.bawygant.com/products/amazing-grace 

All the light & love to you & your loved ones.  I'm hoping no other families suffer a loss like this again.  "Romance of the Skies" we send prayers for peace to you all.  After all these years it still hurts to think about all that loss. 

We think about them often, it drives you to dig deeper, & especially today we hold our families closer.  

Watch out!! Wet Paint: Two New Paintings Debut by BA Wygant October 31 2014

"Rejoice"

48 inches by 48 inches

"Ancient Mariner"

30 inches by 24 inches

Illumination: A Glimpse of the "The Quantum Soul" October 08 2014

In times like these art can promote an understanding of things that are larger then our selves.  M.C. Escher a Dutch graphic artist said artists, "adore chaos because we love to produce order".  I agree, and in the case of my most recent piece (above), both the chaos of our soul searching and the order that comes from moments of transcendence & "Illumination" can evoke a deeper understanding of the beautiful balance we have at our core. 

We can all live for humanity, & work to ignite our God Spark.

My inspiration for this piece was a story I read about where some neurologists that think that the home of the soul in the human body could be in the firing of the neurons. Deepak Chopra calls this, "The Science of the Quantum Soul".  This is my impression of this and our God Spark. 

Pratt Center Fundraiser, Sag Harbor Fest, & Unveiling New Work September 12 2014 1 Comment

This weekend if you are in New Milford, CT please support the Pratt Center on Paper Mill rd and attend their annual auction & fundraiser Under the Harvest Moon .  Here you will be able to bid on BA Wygant's donated 14x11 double matted print of "Spring Symphony" that has been signed numbered and dated.  The original painting is 48x36:

Bette Anne's Description:  In ”Spring Symphony” I share my impression of a moment in time. While I was riding in my car, I glanced out the window as the Sun peeked out of the dark raincloud to reveal an intoxicating sea of wildflowers, while listening to the Brandenburg concertos. I was overwhelmed with the beauty of the moment.

Also this weekend 9/13-14 at the Sag Harbor Festival we are proud to be unveiling of "Awakening".

BA Wygant's most recent work:

11th Sep 2014:

“Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything."
-- George Bernard Shaw,
Irish playwright

After reflecting on this quote & having just finished "Awakening" I can't help but wince when I think about sending my youngest off to school in the Middle East this semester in the midst of such turmoil. 

"Progress" in this context is not enough for me.   Really "Survival" would be a more accurate term for our society.  Whether we want to admit the reality of our changing world or not, our survival will depend on our "Awakening" and flexibility in our world. The governments must cooperate, and work together to help solve the problems we are now facing. Our own leaders must overcome the petty differences reflected in the constant childish bickering.  We must begin anew.

Our precious Humanity, our beloved Earth, our children, when will it be too late to speak with one voice? Peace and respect for Life will determine the balance of our Extinction, or our Salvation.  This is why it is important for our communities to come together and support each other, I hope to see you this weekend so we can make this change happen!!  

-BA Wygant

"Bette Anne Wygant's Paintings Offer Little Glimpses of Soul" By Lorraine & Douglas Haddock September 05 2014

Science Can Save Us & Hurt Us- We Should All Be Mindful of its Power August 26 2014 1 Comment

Albert Einstein and Oppenheimer have both made warnings on the fine-line between discovery and destruction.  

Let us use our tools to educate and discover our impact for instance: Here the cloud is watching our planet...
The world's first high-res map of deforestation visualizes the impact of our actions -- 700,000 satellite images-- coming together to explain the pain. https://earthengine.google.org/#intro/Amazon

Let's all keep a look out for these great tools.  Post here on your discoveries, or science that inspires you- as a scientist or a fan of positive discoveries.

#SpirtMeme An internet Installation at Unity.Gallery August 23 2014

Here is an intesting piece on art as a mirror of ourselves and our values - an idea Unity.Gallery hopes to promote:  http://www.npr.org/blogs/13.7/2014/07/11/330746330/the-world-looked-better-through-anne-hollanders-eyes

Join us here:  http://www.unity.gallery

Got Mentors? 3 Ways Millennials Can Push A Creative Businesses Forward August 03 2014 1 Comment

Lacey is my technology mentor.  Do you have special mentors?

If not think about hiring a millennial! Like a sherpa in this digital age:

They are vision driven, they are experts in productivity, & they are born mentors.

#SpiritMeme Lost & Found August 03 2014

How can we ever find the way searching on our own, in the darkness?  We must all bring in our own light to solve these problems together.  Join us here and at www.Unity.Gallery 

And the People's Choice Award Winner is.... July 28 2014 1 Comment

2014 Golden Thread Gallery People's Choice Award Winner is BA Wygant for  "And the Light Was Good".

An Art Fair-y-Tale | How Helping My Mom's Studio With Art Shows Made Me A Better Artist July 09 2014

Recently we were asked to join a live radio show to discuss BA Wygant Studio's experience in the art show/ art fair market.  As we have worked together on the booth now for a long time- here is my account of the art fair process and how important it is:   

I started going to outdoor art shows when I was 6. My Mom (Bette Anne Wygant) is a painter, and at one point she was also showing some fiber work too. I loved the atmosphere at art shows from the start- the hustle and bustle of setting up your own mini gallery is electric. I remember her conversing with other artists, and telling people about her work- I was as proud of her as I am today. Some of my favorite memories of my grandmother were of her joining us at the fair. She was so happy to be there supporting my Mom, she often walked with me through the show explaining different art and engaging me at a very young age. It is because of these trips that I have such a profound love of art in my life. 

The community standing side to side with their art in the natural light also helps to unite artists, it's really an unparalleled experience. I carry these interactions with me today and they keep me going when we come across a bad show (or having to chase away digital cameras). I remember the new art I see around me, the things I learned, people I met and the new friends we have made~ I always walk away with a positive experience.

Times have changed a bit. For instance now we use more digital tools to engage people, we have better tents and panels, and we sell a lot more prints in tough times because of the price point. However things remain the same in many respects. Art has always been about sharing your vision and bridging vulnerability through connection and interaction with people. That's why I say the shows are worth the time and money you put into them. -What's better than connecting with people in the community and their environment directly?!  

So what is you favorite part about outdoor art shows?  

See you at the next show!!

-Lacey Wallace