Man becomes aware of the sacred because it manifests itself, shows itself,
as something wholly different from the profane.
In each case we are confronted by the same mysterious act–
the manifestation of something of a wholly different order,
a reality that does not belong to our world,
in objects that are an integral part of our natural “profane” world.
~Mircea Eliade, Romanian historian, writer, and professor
Although I dearly wish it were, the statue in the photo is not in my garden. She is one of several scattered around our city’s Botanical Gardens. The captivating sculpture in her quiet reverie and reverence is not unlike a “be” verb in that she expresses a state of being, and I think she does it ever so engagingly. In fact, when I look at her, especially her bowed head, I get the feeling I’m observing someone deep in contemplative prayer. Given that, I’m always a little reluctant at first to move in too close for fear of disturbing her petitions. William Faulkner said that “the aim of every artist is to arrest motion, which is life, by artificial means and hold it fixed so that a hundred years later, when a stranger looks at it, it moves again since it is life.” How successful then was the artist who crafted this bronze “lady of the garden!” I’ve always sensed life and movement in her, and as an admiring observer, I am moved inwardly in her presence. Her movement is not flamboyant; instead it is more of a faint in and our movement of breath. Another thing that fascinates me about the statue is that there is a warmth in her presence even on bitterly cold, wintry days. It’s a kind of glowing warmth that speaks of life, holy and not in the least profane.
Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; tell of all His wonderful acts. Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always. ~1 Chronicles 16:9-11 ✝
Sacred Touches 
…that’s what my garden is missing….a beautiful post, Natalie. It’s wonderful to enjoy the wonders of a city botanical garden. I sure enjoy our Shaw gardens!
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I have one small plaster statue but certainly not anything like the lady I wrote about. I sure wish I could afford something like her though. I’m glad you liked my post, Laura. Natalie 🙂
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It is truly amazing when we slow down and take a look around us at all God has created. It is impossible to not see the hand of the Creator. Be blessed today and bless someone else!
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When I design on estates, I always include art. Some has been done by a local artist too. I have featured one of these gardens a while back, but now I can’t anymore as the owner was not pleased having his property online. That ruined it for ever putting my design work on the web too, so I do it sparingly and without noting that the work is mine. Funny how some want to keep the beauty to themselves.
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i’m so sorry! What a shame to be so selfish and self-centered. Blessings, Natalie
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I meant selfish and self-centered of the clients not you of course. 🙂
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I agree that gardens need some statuary. My husband has blessed me with some for gifts… they do gift me each time I admire them. Thank you, Natalie, for blessing us with this lovely post. 🙂
Take care ~ Wendy
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You’re very welcome, Wendy. I’m so glad you have some statuary that blesses you. I have a few small pieces and they too always make me smile. Blessings, Natalie
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I also like artwork in the garden and the statue in the pic is very touching. All artwork needs to be place with great consideration though and quite often people don’t get it right, it doesn’t feel right. But that’s probably also an entirely personal thing. Best wishes
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You’re right, Annette, getting in the right place is very important. I hope you are having a good week. Blessings, Natalie
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Beautiful post, Natalie. I have always thought statues enhanced gardens. Sadly, I don’t have any in mine. Yet another item on the ‘must get’ list ~ Amelia 🙂
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I have one made out of concrete that’s about 3 feet tall, but would love to have one like the one in my photo. If I should ever play the lottery and win, Amelia, I’ll buy us both one! 🙂 🙂
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Well, I occasionally play the lottery, but I won’t make any promises – I have NEVER won anything. But, if I do, the same goes, Natalie 🙂 🙂
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Now you’ve made me laugh out loud. Same here, I seldom win anything. 🙂
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I am impressed that you post Mircea Eliade’s Poem.In terms of statues,speaking about Romanians have a look at Mademoiselle Pogany – Constantin Brancusi in 1913.Thank you for following my blog Natalie
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Thanks, I will take a look at the two you mentioned. Blessings, Natalie
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Another wonderful post, Natalie. I love William Faulkner’s quote. You always find such wonderful ways to remind us of the beauty that surrounds us. Have a lovely day!
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Thanks, Bette. I hope you have a lovely week. Blessings, Natalie
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