Living Canvases
by Odin Roark

It hangs with the galleries
Where unlimited art museums
Await your approach
Your stopping
Your willingness

So often
It patiently bides its time
Knowing frequently
You’re concerned more
With who’s watching you
Watching the painting
Watching your illumination
Move its way

A painting’s nourishment
Comes in many forms
A child’s giggle
A lean into the details
The finding of the viewing bench
The sit
The sigh
The appreciation of magic

Your eyes provide the means
Your imagination the transport
Your subtle nod
The reward

A painting knows well
The containment of joy
Always aware
Always with gratitude

The chaperon of light
Senses how grateful
Your envisioning a brush stroke’s feel
A layered color’s purpose
An artist’s commitment to discovery

How delicate and fine such moments
When paintings and illumination
Make love