What seems strong and solid is often not, and what appears fragile and vulnerable, is often quite strong. Think of a basil leaf, in the blazing sun all day, stretching itself out and gaining potency from the sun’s rays. You or I would wilt in about 25 minutes, parched and longing for water and sunscreen. The earth beneath our feet surely seems quite solid, but wind, rain, surf, and time (even small amounts of time) can erode the most solid looking, stony cliffs we have ever walked upon.

My work has often described the relationship between vulnerability and strength. I am always fascinated by this relationship in nature, in couples, friends, people. It takes great strength to weep, to become vulnerable and allow some erosion to occur, some change, alteration in one’s inner view. To be vulnerable like the great cliffs of Montauk, ever changing, throughout the day with the dramatic lighting, and over time, perhaps overnight with the wind, storms and raging surf. And yet to still seem so strong, with a wild majestic power. I have been fascinated by a specific stretch of coastline in Montauk, N.Y. for over 30 years. I have followed its contours, grieved at the loss of coastline and vegetation, the erosion caused by waves and storms. My infrequent visits make me acutely aware of the changes over time.

Observe the world, Today; it is changing as we breathe.