A Work of Human Art

Posted by Nicki Peasley Share Your Voice

Ask any child if they are an artist and they will respond with an emphatic “YES!” (and possibly a “Duh!”)  Ask most adults if they are artists and they will shake their heads just as emphatically.  Why is this?  Why do we stop considering ourselves artists when we reach adulthood?

I was pondering this question at the Virginia Museum yesterday.  My kids and I were strolling through the exhibits, marveling at the quiet beauty surrounding us.  My little artists would stop every few minutes to sketch a sculpture or make note of a painting that inspired them.  “I could do that,” one said.  “No,” I contested, “you would do it your way, no more or less lovely, just your own way.”   We are all artists, with our own unique interpretation of the world.

I’m not drawn to paint or clay.  I interpret the world through human art.  I am inspired by community and by the growth and beauty that results from human interaction. I love this idea of leadership as a human art.  Like painting or sculpting, it is a practice, a way of navigating one’s life that inspires others to create their own masterpieces.

On the way to the museum yesterday, we stopped at Hardee’s for a cheeseburger, fries, and a cup of coffee.  Not for us, but for the homeless person at the corner next to the bus station.  I see her almost everyday, bundled up, her cart overflowing with bags, her kitty cat loyally by her side.  And everyday, I ponder, “What is her story?” before rushing off into the business of my life.

But today, I decided to stop—and create some human art.   Armed with three beautiful children and a bag of greasy fast food, I made a new friend.  Victoria is her name.  And yes, she has a story, but it is not mine to tell.

What is mine to share is a magical moment that transpired between strangers.  A weathered hand reaching out to touch the rosy cheek of a child.  Eyes, mine and hers, bright with gratitude.  A tender understanding of the joy and pain of the human experience.  A work of art—on a gray, Monday afternoon…on my way to the museum.

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Nicki Peasley I am the CEO of my home, managing a team consisting of a 40 year old, an 11 year old, an 8 year old, and a 6 year old. In my spare time, I am the YOUth development director for Bounce, writing curriculums and working (playing and learning) with elementary and middle school youth.