Arun Patel Artist Exhibition + Reception 11.30
- November 7 - January 6
- All Day
- The Sea Ranch Lodge
Exhibition: 11.7 through 1.6.25
Reception on 11.30 4pm-6pm
The Sea Ranch Lodge
When Arun encounters one of the 3 trillion trees on our planet (about 400 trees per person), he usually starts by seeing them; their form, beauty, and uniqueness capture his attention. His other senses may enhance this experience. He might smell the tree’s flowers, hear the rustle of its leaves in the wind, feel the texture of its bark, or the strength of the trunk as he rests against it. As a photographer intending to showcase a few of these trees bathed in special light, Arun has come to understand that he must first get to know the tree with all his senses. Only after he has experienced it in its entirety can he truly “see” it.
Once his senses have been satisfied, his intellect recalls the vital role trees play in making our planet habitable—cleaning the air and water, cooling the environment, and supporting ecosystems and biodiversity. Trees produce oxygen, provide food and shelter, and are the source of fossil fuels and medicines. Their contributions to our well-being are too vast to fully enumerate. If an alien species were to choose between humans and trees for making the planet hospitable, Arun believes trees’ importance in sustaining life on Earth would be undeniable.
After sensing these things and thinking these thoughts, Arun reflects on what he feels about trees. They give all they have and ask for nothing in return. He understands that repaying their kindness is impossible, except through wise stewardship. This fills him with a deep sense of gratitude. He appreciates and cherishes them, recognizing the divinity that permeates each one. This awareness of belonging to something larger than himself instills in him a sense of oneness with the trees. Each of his photographs is influenced by and infused with this sense of wonder and gratitude.
In response, Arun bows his head and, with folded hands, says, "Namaste."
Arun is interested in making minimalist quiet compositions influenced by the principles of Asian landscape painting, and in making unique and expressive prints, especially on Japanese handmade washi.
