The Healing Presence

Do images heal? Yes they do. That is the thesis of renowned photographer A. J. Meek with these photographs of the clouds paired with children's perceptions of hope. "The feeling of freedom is exhilarating," Meek says in his photographer's comments for the work contained within. "The total package of sky and children's perception is designed to evoke a positive healing attitude within the viewer. When studied and meditated upon, the audience cannot maintain a negative thought." Heavily influenced by Native American culture, these pictures, which were made in New Mexico and Louisiana, promote a feeling of well-being and inspiration. To be in the world but not of it is certainly the road less traveled and the most challenging for there are no earthly rewards for this choiceonly peace. A. J. MEEK is the co-author of one and the author of five photography books. His work is in several private and public collections including the Houston Museum of Art, New Orleans Museum of Art, and the Chrysler Museum of Art. In addition to his personal honors, he has been awarded several prestigious grants from the Louisiana State University Council on Research and the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.