Contemplative Artists

As I explore pilgrimage and contemplative photography over at "Musings from Red Bell Farm" and "Dona Nobis Pacem," I'm drawn to a book that my brother gave me for Christmas in 2008. It's a compare/contrast book about two of my favorite artists, Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams. Lavishly illustrated with both familiar and not-so-well-known works by both, this book is a feast for the eyes and for the soul. I can't help but label both O'Keeffe and Adams 'contemplative' artists. Even though Adams produced photographs for commercial reasons, his black and white images pierce my heart with their clear vision of the soul of the places that called Adams to capture them on film. O'Keeffe's luscious landscapes and flowers delve into that soulful place as well. If art as a contemplative practice appeals to you, this book is one you must read.