The Language of Hands
NYSCA Individual Artist Grant 2016
"Our hands tell who we are."
They are believed to be perfect subjects of the mind.
As physical labor shows in the callouses of our palms,
so does gentleness or greediness or strength.
Nothing else expresses human behavior in so many ways.
With our hands, we work, play, love, threaten, show joy or grief.
Sensitive symbols of faith and friendship, our hands draw to us
everything and everyone we love.
Marvelously made and directed by the mind's eye,
the mind's ear, and the heart's desire,
our hands continually express our lives.
An abusive hand is from an abusive mind.
But the gentle touch does exist - even for those
who have yet to experience it. What words cannot say,
the hands can express with all tenderness and love.
From the Cherokee Feast of Days - Spotted Tail
Sponsored by: Finger Lakes Community Arts Grants
