Andy Goldsworthy and Impermanence

Because it's Earth Day, I wanted to write about the brilliance of Scottish sculptor and photographer, Andy Goldsworthy. He is one of my favorite artists of all time. He uses all natural objects to create delicate sculptures of incredible beauty. But, as with all things beautiful they do not last; either the tides, the winds, the rain or the snow will destroy them. What faith it must take to spend so much time creating something whose ephemeralness and transience cannot be denied. Many traditional Japanese artists have believed that it is the very idea of an object's impermanence is that which makes something beautiful.

4 comments:

Alex Kerr said...

That's some of the coolest shit I've ever seen.

alli b said...

I love Andy Goldsworthy too!!! There is an awesome museum in Edinburgh, Scotland with his amazing work intertwined. Would love to see one out in the "wild"

Winnie said...

Ditto, Andy Goldsworthy is amazing! And yes, I think that is why the Japanese idolize cherry blossoms - so perfect, and yet so fleeting. If I can dig it up I'll post one of my favorite haikus on this subject for you.

Honora said...

I would LOVE some haikus, Winnie! Ahh, the cherry blossoms must be amazing right now.