Meditation #3 / Scott Eagle 2000

“I was begining to very directly confront the idea of death, and to think about what kind of purpose there is behind things, and about how I could make my life meaningful,” he said. “I began to ask myself what kind of images in modern society really inspire me in a deeply spiritual way, and I couldn’t think of many. So I asked myself, ‘How can I create images that will speak of something bigger than everyday life but that will also connect me to my fellow human beings as well as to the future and the past?’”

Artist- Scott Eagle

Not only do they release a rotating roster of awesome designs which run the gamut from cute to creepy but they were instrumental in me receiving a truly amazing birthday present from my better half.

One of my favorite photos of all time is my “self-portrait with pug”. Not sure what either me or the pugger was thinking when this was snapped but it’s guaranteed that it came from love. Love does inspire buggy-eyedness.

the whites of our eyes...

Mr TMcG loves this photo too, so much so that he contacted Joey and Dora from Akumuink and asked if they could do a painting from this pic.

The result left me completely blown away and seeing the painting made me so happy. Sometimes it’s hard for an artist to capture a time, place or people accurately, but these guys really did us justice. Incredible incredible work and each time I’ll look at this painting, I’ll remember this special birthday present showing me and my wonderful little dog. Thanks to Akumuink and my lovely fiance.

The finished portrait

Initially their focus was to be to gather artwork primarily around Tara, but with the list of artists growing exponentially, it was decided to expand this focus to be much wider.

They are looking to raise money for the Free Tibet Campaign through the sale of this generously donated artwork that is displayed at locations all over the globe. A book is also available and features over 40 full page, full color images by artists such as: Sabine Gaffron, Wido de Marval, Aaron Bell, Jondix, Rinzing, Daniel Albrigo, Jeff Gogue, Matthew Amey, Alex Binnie, Dawni and Gerry Carnelly

While we’re on the topic of tats, do check out The Worst Horse’s post on Buddhist-inspired tattoos on the “Body Vows” section of the website

Esther Kalaba and Karen Haffey are two women who united through their loss of family members to explore the memories associated with the clothing of those who pass away digitally via this website as well as in person by way of both a private meeting of all those who participated in sharing their experiences and then through a public art exhibit and future book project.

From the website:
“What happens to clothing once occupied by someone who has passed away? Is it left sitting in a pile on the floor as it was when death came? Is it given away, thrown away, washed or unwashed, folded away in a drawer, or hung indefinitely in a quiet closet, in a quiet untouched room? Whatever choices are made, one thing remains the same: the clothing of a deceased loved one is no longer just dress. It holds a narrative of memory, body, identity, sweat and smell that is a souvenir of loss.”

This is an extraordinary project. I really don’t know much more to say beyond that.

You can check out the site here. If your computer can handle it- definately click on the ‘enhanced experience’.