Artists and Poets Respond to the Pandemic (10)

In this preview of work from the online exhibition "Artists and Poets Respond to the Pandemic," I have paired artist Carolyn M. Abrams with poet Laura Boggess. Their work is inspired by the word "Hope" and the associated word "Healing."

[. . .] the wind /

stirs the canopy of blossoms above us //

there are crimson petals everywhere.

~ from "Essential"

Carolyn M. Abrams, "Victory Garden II"

Mixed Media 

5-1/2" x 5-1/2"

Of her work, Carolyn writes that the title and that also of "Victory Garden I" (both are in the exhibition) are "reminiscent of the victory gardens during World War II and a hope for victory over this dreadful disease."

Listen to Laura reading her poem.

Read Laura's poem.

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Carolyn M. Abrams has been an arts educator since 2005, as well as a creativity coach, workshop leader and trainer, and fundraiser. In addition, she has curated exhibitions at such venues as Stratton VA Medical Center at Mochablend Cafe, Brunswick, New York, and Visions Gallery.

Carolyn has participated in numerous solo, juried, invitational, and group shows, as well as public art exhibits, throughout New York State. Her work has been published in Still Point Arts Quarterly and Professional Artist, among other arts-related periodicals. A recipient of an Award of Merit from Manhattan Arts International, Carolyn is a member of Healing Power of Arts and holds Soul Art Guide certification.

Laura Boggess is the author of Playdates with God: Having a Childlike Faith in a Grown-up World. She and her husband are empty-nesting in a little valley in West Virginia. Laura works at a local hospital, where she is considered "essential staff."

St. Michael's Episcopal Church (Arlington, Va.), which supports the arts ministry I lead, is hosting the complete multi-part online exhibition. On the church's new Instagram page, you'll find images of all the artworks, which are augmented daily. Websites and other information about all the participating artists and poets can be found at "Artists' Biographical Information" and "Poets' Biographical Information," respectively. Some artworks, including Carolyn's, are available to purchase; for information, see "Purchase List of Artworks."