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July/August 2008 Cover Artist
My Wing Sailing

by Cassandra Barney

Early in the morning on a chilly May day, a painter, a sculptor and a poet set out to create an artwork. They scanned the beach for inspiration. It was a moody, gray place that filled its visitors with a quiet, melancholy peace.

Each of these artists differed in their medium of expertise and had something unique to offer. They also had something that they shared. It was the way in which all three had learned to explore and share and feel and try to understand through symbols, and more importantly, their desire and passion to do so.

On rain soaked Cannon Beach they found the skeletal remains of a bird. That is where it began. This object had many symbolic associations. A bird is often a symbol of connecting with a higher spirit. Seagulls in particular were believed to carry the souls of dead sailors and were considered an unlucky omen.

So if this bird has long since passed, is that omen reversed?

In the process of creating this work the wings were separated, one being sailed into the ocean and one to remain. Was it a plea? Was it about a journey? Was it two parts of a whole? Did it represent the quest for immortality or triumph over death?

The process of creating this artwork was unforgettable. Sometimes when working together, one can make personal discoveries.

Cassandra Barney, a Utah-based artist, created Two Tiny Women on the cover of New Connexion. See her artwork at www.cassandrabarney.com. Read her blog at www.cassandrabarney.blogspot.com.