ART EXHIBITION + PRESENTATION

While we have tried to draw deep inspiration from our first journey into the ancient world of Palestine and Israel, we can in no way represent the realities that we encountered. The Holy Lands offered us personal glimpses into it contrasts, vibrancy and yearnings for the elusive dream of peace. We experienced the complexity of daily life, that in many ways defines our world, whether we like it or not. We encountered unprecedented hospitality, warmth and generosity from Palestinian, Arab and Israeli, from Muslim, Christian and Jew.

We shared stories immersed in ancient religious traditions that often overlapped and interacted in unpredictable ways, creating layers that engaged the soul in combinations that belong to specific groups, yet belong to everyone. There is an immense and intricate mosaic of people where much is divided and in conflict. Its diversity and richness exudes passion, emotion and spiritual energy as much as it does intolerance, danger and the trampling of basic human rights. It’s filled with harsh reality, yet sensual. When you touch the ancient walls and stones it’s as if you are making connections with all who have touched them.

Our creative process, like our journey, is not to render something but to allow the texture, layers and paint to suggest an ancient path through the work as it develops. Although visually abstract, we often retain faint echoes of symbol and landscape inspired by the colors and layered mark making we found so prevalent in our pilgrimage. Our abstractions are memories, spiritual reflections and prayers forged in color, shape and form.  – Chuck Hoffman + Peg Carlson-Hoffman

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