The "Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet" project parallels my own initiatives to explore, educate and inspire others through art. Humanity and the environment are interfaced more now than ever before, and my art is about reminding us of this connection. I am proud to have been awarded this project- designed to increase public awareness of global warming and promote solutions.
My globe," Facing the Earth," is a 5 x 5 foot diameter fiberglass globe that was
supplied to me by the "Cool Globe" committee. Received as a white "sphere" with each continent sculpted in relief, my concept was to create a very cool globe by selecting the cool color palette. This became the backdrop for the individually painted portraits that were simultaneously adhered and sculpted onto the globe.
Each portrait represents an "Eco Hero" who has initiated global change for the environment. Some of my "Heros" are well known, while others may not be easily recognized. My hope is that the viewer will become interested to learn more about each person and their achievement- ultimately igniting interest to explore our responsibilities and initiate positive change. In my past works of art that involve multiple portraits of others, I have included a self portrait to indicate that I feel connected to each individual - in this instance a self portrait is also included.
What difference can one person make? Take a look and find out! Each person on this globe has made a difference in the world, and you can make a difference too.
Maybe you'll be like Wangari Maathai, who planted trees far and wide across Kenya. She formed the Green Belt Movement, brought planting to dry regions, and won the Nobel Peace Prize. Or maybe you'll be like Dorothy Stang, who dedicated her life to preserving the Amazonian rainforest and the people who lived and farmed there.
You can be an eco hero too! Many environmental heroes are made right here in our own backyard. Don't know where to start? Chicago Cares is a volunteer organization committed to helping the environment by planting trees, tending to plants and preserving nature parks.
Are you ready to get your hands dirty and change the world?
About Cool the Cool Globe Project: http://coolglobes.org
A WORK IN PROGRESS Do you know someone special in your life that is a Woman of Courage? Perhaps she is a mother, grandmother or friend that has made achievements beyond personal, political, cultural, educational, or health boundaries to become a Woman of Courage. The Women of Courage series is an ongoing work in progress. Although nominations for phase 2 have been filled, nominations for Women of Courage phase 3 are being accepted. All nominations will be accepted on a first received basis until the deadline. If your nominee is selected, your Woman of Courage will be featured in my next mosaic. There is no fee to nominate your Woman of Courage.
The artwork will be comprised of individual 24" x 24" portraits, painted on canvas and installed as a giant mosaic. The deadline for Women of Courage, phase II nominations is December 30, 2007. To nominate, please fill out e-mail return form NOMINEE'S INFORMATION: You can also mail information to:
Cautious to new relationships our hearts are often winterized, secretly wearing protection against being hurt. Carefully, as we begin to trust relationships, spring evolves. Gathering warmth, the heart begins to open as if a flower, magically transporting us into summer. Autumn's message of color becomes the final transformation~ a vibrant signal to observe the feelings of those around us. Perhaps unfolding a change of heart.
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