In “A Vision No. 1”, Based on an etching by Sascha Schneider (1870-1927), ‘Eine Vision’, 1897-98. We see a man reclining while he gazes out into the abyss. He seems to be rooted in a reality just outside of our realm, framed as if on a movie screen that distances him from us. Another figure levitates just above and behind him. Is he a dream? They seem to be aware of each other as if connected on some level.
The entire interaction is framed which lends itself to a theatrical setting and distances them from our reality. The flying figure it’s further separated by his skin tone, slightly cooler which could indicate him being on another plane of existence.
In the creation of this piece, I wish to challenge the viewer to engage in a dialogue and help get this work its final meaning.
vision us outspread in flesh with my wing,
with your incandescence looking my eyes
in some delight almost arabesques sing
the outspread songs of silent stares, love flies
us both upon our heaven made intent
our trembled awe of aperture is bent
gossamers, our appanage, our grace sent
to be above, below and where time’s spent
with denizens of merled sense outleashed
no mere of mortaled myths condensed in place
placing the touched geometry we reached
half god, half arm and winged with certain grace
to better love the loving of intent
we stay soaring and soar staying content.
words by Terrel Hale
