Perennial Optimism by David Dow

Artist Statement: Despite a compromised planet, despite a weary country, despite entrenched sides, and all the other despites – there is a way forward if only we look for and reach for the light. Despite brutal winters (hot and cold), despite decay, despite all evidence pointing to demise, perennial flowers and plants reemerge each spring bringing joy, wonder, and relief at their first sight signaling that the long winter is nearly over.

Artist David Dow tells a visual parable using exaggerated, fantastical part human, part plant souls constructed of Papier Mâché, reclaimed lumber, a vintage store fixture, paint, wax, and glass beads to illustrate the optimism of perennials – from winter emerges spring, from deepest slumber emerges exuberant life. Perennials survive despite difficult conditions and often neglect but they thrive when given attention and nurtured. Nature provides humanity this lesson over and over again, if only we have the wisdom and humility to see and learn from it.
Together with the boisterous, spirited and color-full painting of Jan Brandt and her seductive fiber art; the wry wit and clever commentary of Jim Neeley’s Obsession Tiles; and with Dow’s souls flourishing despite all odds; the artists provide a bright respite in the midst of gray winter.