Celebrating nature through Michele Oka Doner's art

I recently attended a book signing  of  internationally known sculptor Michele Oka Doner  whose new book of  artwork is called Human Nature. I went to hear about her art, but left  with some inspirations that I hadn't expected to receive.   Michele Oka Doner told the group that  she sees herself as an American transcendentalist.  She feels deeply drawn by the power of nature... the process of flowers blooming, birds laying eggs, fruit swelling. Her love of the natural environment goes back to her childhood on Miami Beach where she remembers  being in awe of all things pertaining to nature.

Oka Doner left Miami after high school , went to college in Michigan, and then moved to New York. It is in her Soho loft  where she creates her art . She still returns to Miami Beach for her  inspiration. This artist  walks the beaches and other natural areas in search of coral, shells, driftwood and other pieces that will become part of her sculptures, jewelry,  installations and other works. Her headless sculptured figures made of roots, coral, and bark are spellbinding- they resemble  gods and goddesses that make one think of  our unrealized perfection.  Her public  art installations which can be seen at Miami International Airport , and  the Herald Square Subway complex in New York are also awe inspiring. They  serve as a reminder that it's good to  take time to stop, reflect, and tune into the natural beauty around us. In a world that is so fragmented and anxious,  Oka Doner's work made me  think about art's power to bring some balance into our lives.

For more information about Michele Oka Doner, visit  www.micheleokadoner.com