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ALTAR TO MY DEMONS

Artist: Dale Schwarz

Materials: Mixed Media

As the demons hover around the hanging figure (me), I know they look cute and innocuous. That is just the point. Their benign appearance is their ploy to entice me, seducing me until I realize that I am once again caught in their turmoil. Yes, once again I am face to face with my rebelliousness, my doubts, my inner critic, etc. - the inner demons that in their familiarity seemed initially benign.

I created this altar to honor the shadow side of me, the part that comes around to teach and humble me, lest I forget that I am only human.

As I reflected upon what I had created here, the surprise was that I had unconsciously chosen to cover the hanging figure (me) with pieces of cloth I've had for over 25 years. I had wrapped myself in "old patterns" from the past, patterns that no longer serve me.

 

 

DALE SCHWARZ

 

Autobiographical Statement

 

 Throughout my life, making art has been my joy, my spiritual practice and my process of self-healing. I am also committed to and passionate about encouraging others in their creative process, and have worked with individuals, groups, and organizations for over twenty years as a consultant, Registered Art Therapist, and as founding Director of the New England Art Therapy Institute.