Dec 2, 2019 We the People allows us to reflect on generosity in our community. This sculpture is a call to action, reminding us to be present and engaged in each other’s lives. When a generous community rallies around one another, they infect positive change. This season, give back by supporting causes that benefit your community. Kindred Spirits by Asher B. Durand Asher Brown Durand. Kindred Spirits, 1849. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2010.106 Kindred Spirits reminds us of the generosity of friendship. Asher B. Durand painted Kindred Spirits as a tribute to his longtime friend and artist Thomas Cole. Kindred spirits are people who are tied by an intimate and deep bond. They are friends who are there for one another at the drop of a hat. They give without expecting anything in return. This holiday season, be generous with your time and words to your fellow kindred spirits. Be intentional in showing them how much they matter to you. Florida Mexicana by Alfredo Ramos Martinez Alfredo Ramos Martínez. Florida Mexicana, 1936. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2015.19 Florida Mexicana offers us the chance to reflect on a giving spirit. A giving spirit is one who sees a need and meets it, with no expectations in return. This painting was created at the height of the Great Depression. When many people did not know where their next meal would come from, this idyllic scene shows the generosity of a young girl. She offers new life and hope. A giving spirit creates a reason to live and thrive no matter the situation. This holiday season, look for opportunities to help someone in need. Valley of the Catawissa in Autumn by Thomas Moran Thomas Moran. Valley of the Catawissa in Autumn, 1862. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2005.6 Nature is generous in many ways. It gives us abundant beauty and transcendent peace. Nature takes our focus off ourselves and gives us a wider, clearer perspective. This holiday season, we hope you spend time in nature and reflect on its goodness in your life. In the same way that Moran eliminated technology in his painting, we hope that you will put your device down and step outside, perhaps on one of the trails around Crystal Bridges. Take time to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. Give the gift of inspiration during this #GivingTuesday. Help make art and nature accessible to all at Crystal Bridges. This post was written by Ann Claire Gaydos, Development Intern.
