Communing With a Sister

I love Sister Wendy and I will duke it out with you on the playground if you even attempt to imitate her or call her a "beaver."  Don't get between me and my Sister.

I don't just stop there though.  I want YOU to love her too.

Sister Wendy Beckett was an unlikely choice for celebrity, but it happened nonetheless.  It began when the BBC decided to record her verbal musing on paintings.  Something very simple.  She would look at art and a camera would happen to follow her around.  The BBC did not train her how to act, did not give her a script, and most certainly didn't prompt her how to connect with the viewer.  In fact, she'd never watched TV a day in her life!  And for more than 30 years she lived in SILENCE!  Yes, silence for 30+ years.  Unfathomable to me.

So, how did she end up being warm and resonating on camera.  This, too, is simple.  She talked about what she was passionate about!  She wants viewers to look at art work and give it a chance, even if it's vulgar or terrifying.  Sister Wendy wants you and I to see art as a timeless gift that, like a great book, can absorb you and take you somewhere.  In interviews (see below) she also reveals the essential nature of art as a means toward building personal integrity.

Recently, I checked out several of her books from the library.  (FAR more affordable than buying them!) I don't always see what she sees.  But who can argue with her?

I also located an excellent BBC interview of hers on YouTube.  I provide links here for you.  Please at least listen to the interview. (FYI: The sound is a bit low, so turn your speaker up.)  Part 4 is my favorite!  And I have to say, the type of introspection, silence, and intentional thought she speaks of... I think it applies to artists, writers, and even die-hard runners!   Consider her comments and how they apply to your life.

Sister Wendy in Conversation :: Part 1
Sister Wendy in Conversation :: Part 2
Sister Wendy in Conversation :: Part 3
Sister Wendy in Conversation :: Part 4
Sister Wendy in Conversation :: Part 5
Sister Wendy in Conversation :: Part 6

Sister Wendy's 1,000 Masterpieces
Sister Wendy's Story of Painting
Sister Wendy's American Masterpieces
Sister Wendy's Grand Tour

Comments

[Katerz]

Sister Wendy *rocks* !!!