4 Love: Art is Medicine
I understand spirituality as more than a belief or emotion; it is a way of life and a way of looking at the world. Developing love toward the self is probably the quickest way for me to develop spirituality and this process always includes the development of love towards others. This feeling of “true love” inspires motivation to care for myself, to serve others and give thanks to the forces that created us. The more consistent I am in the daily practice of this love and gratitude, the deeper the spirituality. Since my spirituality is also about action, I believe making art can be a spiritual process as well.
Amoxtli 4Love, 2020
(inside view)
by Margaret ‘Quica’ Alarcón
Accordion book: papel picado on acrylic, handmade paper and graphite gathered between balsa wood.
Over a decade and two graduate degrees ago, I suffered the reopening and healing of a serious physical, emotional, spiritual trauma. During this time I spent years involved in psychotherapy. I also began making more art and writing poetry to help me survive passing through feelings of loss, deep pain and despair. I was obsessed with sharing, painting, dancing, singing, beading, weaving, sewing, playing guitar, and bathed in the spiritual world. I also practiced meditation, fasting, purging, crying spells, and reaching out to loved ones and friends. I participated in indigenous ceremonies while I prayed for my health and carefully listened to peoples stories and what I perceived to be the sacred web of life around me.
Amoxtli 4Love, 2020
(back view)
by Margaret ‘Quica’ Alarcón
Accordion book: papel picado on acrylic, handmade paper and graphite gathered between balsa wood.
I would draw and doodle incessantly, and what emerged from my experience was a symbol that reminded me of what is most important in life: air, earth, fire, water and the relationship and support of the ancestors and our loved ones. In the end, this is all that truly matters and what I give thanks for every day.
I will always be grateful for this medicine.
