"Art is a language, before and beyond words. It is both path and doorway that allows entrance into deeper relationship with the Self and World. It is a tool I use to locate, connect and align smaller nature within larger Nature.

In 1996 I realized that different studio spaces influenced the kind of work I did and I began asking myself, 'what kind of artwork would I do if the natural environment was my studio?' I responded to that question by exploring art-making outdoors. My focus was to find ways to interact with elemental matter, using the idea of conversation as a model, repeatedly Iistening, seeing and responding. I went into the wilderness with the attitude that I was going to work in my studio. As much as possible, I went without preconceptions about what I would do, wanting the work to grow out of being present and connecting to each particular place and time.

I employ simple actions and common materials that were both controlled, and uncontrollable as they are influenced by the forces of fire, water, wind, time, and/or light. I document these ephemeral interactions with photographs to bridge solitude and community, wilderness and culture."

Gloria Lamson is an artist who has lived and worked in Washington, Alaska and California. For the last 30 years, she has directly and consciously been involved with the creative process in numerous forms of practice. Through her artwork, teaching, writing and speaking, she explores ways to help others connect and deepen their relationship to Nature and their own creative process. Lamson received her MFA in Art and Consciousness in 1999 from John F. Kennedy University in California. Her work has been exhibited and published since 1975.

Above: © Gloria Lamson • floating stones on broken ice, Wyoming • 1999