CONTEMPORARY FIGURATIVE PAINTINGS by

RICHARD BAXTER

title 'Within' catalogue # 37 medium oil on canvas size 120 x 195cm. date 1997 status available WITHIN by Maryann Hamm 2/26/02 Eons A Shaman once said, “Friend to become one with nature you must shed the things of your tribe close your eyes, be still inhale deeply of things not seen. Wait, they will come.” I settle in the shade of rocks upon this barren land, eyes closed senses keen mind still. My breathing is soon deep, measured, my body tranquil. I Wait. A soft wind brings spirits that circle chant capture my soul, lift a veil from my eyes. A wondrous peace encloses me. Our spirits entwine we drift above the gorge. Amazed, I look down stunned see the beauty life that surrounds me there. I am riding the ultimate high take my place: a mere speck, a link in the chain of all life. It’s astounding to feel an affinity with my environment and a rock. My hands bristle with energy from secrets sheathed in stone. “You have survived eons I, but a short time when my body turns to dust churning in the wind will I know then the secrets within?” CONTEMPORARY FIGURATIVE PAINTINGS