Artists and Poets Respond to the Pandemic (7)

Today, I'm spotlighting artist Linda Plaisted and poet Lorna Cahall. Both are included in the online exhibition "Artists and Poets Respond to the Pandemic." Linda's can be found in the section  of artwork titled "Masks/Personal Protection Equipment"; Lorna's poem is inspired by the word "Fear" and the associated words "Family" and "Sheltering."

she's so weary /

flying over the folded masked faces /

so tired / [. . . .]

~ from "The Homeward Dove"

Linda Plaisted, "Masquerade," 2020

Photographic Mixed Media

Of her artwork, Linda says, "I created it to reference the use of face masks against the spread of the virus, represented by the water droplets and the sensation of being submerged under water and unable to breathe."

Read Lorna's poem.

___________________________

Linda Plaisted is a classically trained American painter, fine art photographer, and encaustic and mixed media artist. A pioneer in contemporary photomontage, Linda founded her Many Muses Studio in 2000 as a place to explore the marriage of her media.

In addition to illustrating book and magazine covers for major publishers, Linda has exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, and her work can be found in international private and corporate collections.

The holder of degrees in fine art, illustration, and literature, Linda has lived in the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Area for more than 20 years. Currently, she lives and works in Frederick, Maryland.

Lorna Cahall is the author of The Actor King, an adventure story set in ancient Alexandria, Egypt, and has written and published the poetry collections Late in the Hammock of Night and The Field. Lorna lives in Oregon.

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 the artwork, which is augmented daily. Websites and other information about the participating artists and poets can be found at "Artists' Biographical Information" and "Poets' Biographical Information," respectively. In addition, see the "Purchase List" for information about artworks that are offered for sale. 

____________________________

Note: Be sure to see my May 21 Artist Watch column, forthcoming at Escape Into Life, where I'll be showcasing more of Linda's beautiful artwork.