Barb creates poetry with an understanding of the semantics of the words and their sounds, rhythm, and musicality, but also with an eye for the new associations or “sparks” that can happen when some words are rubbed together. Her poems are often playful and lyrical, but they can take unexpected turns and delve deeply into fundamental issues of our existence, such as the cycle of life and death, the nature of consciousness, time, and reality. Beverly’s artwork, driven by a fascination with viewer’s perception, is visual and based on what the eye sees and how the mind interprets it. Both have different methods of artistic expression, yet they’ve discovered they have very similar concepts and impulses.

 

The idea in collaboration was for Beverly to explore her interpretation of the poetry and conceptually express it in a way that invites viewers to actively be engaged in their own experience. This collection is tied together by the four elements of matter: earth, water, air and fire. They also straddle a tight walk as they traverse the edge where left and right brain meet.

 

The intent is that the interaction with these 3D artworks further enhances the experience of the poetry. Built in are elements of surprise that reveal themselves and reward viewers who take the time to interact with the artwork. It is an important aspect of this work that it can only be truly experienced in person. This artwork engages with what makes us human and separates us from the machines – our emotions, imaginations, self-awareness and physical bodies.