Triptych To Peace (Fountain 1 of 3) Photograph

Artist Statement Triptych to Peace is a collection of 30 photographs featuring serene patterns of shapes, colors and details appearing in open spaces and culturally significant architectural sites, which are easily overlooked. The photographs were created by New York artist Xiomáro (pronounced SEE-oh-MAH-ro) at locations in the northeastern region of North America over a five year period ranging from U.S. National Park sites to his own backyard. Xio is a Visiting Artist at Weir Farm National Historic Site in Connecticut and his work is actively exhibited at state and federal government offices, galleries and universities such as Harvard and Brigham Young. The presentation of the images was inspired by the relaxed scene of Eishosai Choki's pentatych, Enjoying Cool Air on a Pleasure Boat (circa 1789-1801). Rather than having five images, Xio used three images - a triptych - which was a common format for European altar paintings during the Middle Ages. The three panels, hinged together for easy folding and transport, communicated important stories to an illiterate populace to provoke contemplation and introspection. Today's predominantly literate society means that the images in Xio's 10 triptychs can be more abstract and unhinged. The images transport the locations to the viewer and, as such, are a play on the words "trip" and "ticket." Other than routine adjustments (e.g., contrast and brightness), all of the photographs were created in-camera and none of its subjects were digitally manipulated. The unusual patters, colors and details can be seen by anyone taking the time to shun modern distractions, quiet one's mind and engage in a focused experience with beauty - both natural and manmade. Theodore Roosevelt, the noted conservation president who saved approximately 230 million acres of parks, forests and preserves, believed in the restorative powers of nature. Landscape artists of the time like J. Alden Weir, who often painted en plein air, welcomed the break from city life offered by the outdoors. Today, the National Park Service's Call To Action includes the goal of connecting "urban communities" and "new audiences" to the parks by showcasing these green spaces through the arts. Why? Because, as explained in the Call To Action, the parks can be used "as a healing tool to improve health and wel-being" and "as a source of...renewed spirit.