"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God," a calligraphic painting by me, November 1995, in memory of Yitzak Rabin. Ink, acrylic, gouache on paper, 8 x 16 inches. Click for larger view.
We're nearing the last week of submissions for the next issue of qarrtsiluni, "Journaling the Apocalypse", edited this time by Dave Bonta and myself. Dave and I usually sit in the managing editors' seats, making sure the correspondence with contributors goes smoothly and taking care of posting the accepted files and images while the guest editors review the submissions, make their choices, and shape the issue according to their vision of the theme. September 2008 marks the third anniversary of the online journal, and Dave and I decided it was high time we took another turn as editors of the issue itself - and how interesting it's turning out to be!
A description of our theme, as well as guidelines for submitting your work (before the October 6 deadline) are on the qarrtsiluni website. "Apocalypse" can be defined individually or collectively; according to its traditional meaning or creatively: that's up to you. We've already accepted work from a number of new contributors, so don't be shy about giving us a try. You'll receive a decision within about ten days.
Speaking of evolving meanings of the word "apocalypse": I've been thinking how tragic and depressing the downward spiral has been in world relations since I made this piece of artwork at what seemed like a low point in 1995. Rabin, of course, was assassinated by a Jewish right-wing radical on Nov. 4, 1995, because of the Israeli prime minister's acceptance of the Oslo Accords. For his part in brokering the peace agreement, Rabin won the Nobel Peace Prize along with Yasser Arafat and Shimon Peres. He also officially recognized the PLO, and signed the 1994 peace treaty between Israel and Jordan.
"Rabin's funeral was attended by many world leaders... Bill Clinton delivered a eulogy whose memorable final words were in Hebrew - "Shalom, Haver" ; lit. "Goodbye, Friend")...Before leaving the stage on the night of the assassination, Rabin had been singing "Shir LaShalom" (literally Song for Peace), along with Israeli singer Miri Aloni. After he died, a sheet of paper with the lyrics was found in his pocket, stained with blood." (Wikipedia)
I'm thrilled to see some of your painting, Beth! This is so strong as is the story behind it.
Posted by: marja-leena | September 27, 2008 at 09:28 PM
(o)
Posted by: dale | September 27, 2008 at 10:16 PM
I thought I saw a bridge in your painting. In looking closer I saw it was the letter of words creating the spans. ... and so it goes.
Thank you.
Posted by: pat | September 28, 2008 at 08:06 AM
Those are lovely, Beth
Posted by: Allan Peterson | October 16, 2008 at 12:47 AM