This project, which I take out into the community, began with a child´s handprint, found on a postcard, in a thrift shop in London. It inspired me at a very low point in my life and became a motivator, reminding me that despite circumstances “The real future is in our hands” . We choose what to do and how to be in a very mixed up world.
The project developed in the rain forest in Trinidad in 2008 and is on going. A canvas is covered with the hand prints of inspirational people who also sign it. Their contribution is documented with photos and text. Just as each handprint is unique, each one of us has something uniquely ours to give to life. Education is really very much about this, helping us to bloom .
The 60th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights was another great motivator to begin what had been put off for so long , it was the push I needed, that and the people of Trinidad, so openhearted and full of fun,” the Rainbow People “ Hindu, Muslim, Christian, often in one family, celebrating their festivals together. The colour and rhythm of their lives is amazing. Life is raw and wild, there are huge oil reserves but the wealth does not trickle down. But here I felt so inspired. Here, in the rain forest, the project began.
Cyprian Rivers Artist; Sculptor, Painter, Musician
Trinidad to Ireland
This incredible artwork from Newgrange relates to the mid –winter sunrise alignment passing through the passage mound and tells a story in beautiful symbols. It was created 5,000 yrs ago, older than the pyramids. It seemed a perfect choice as the backdrop for inspirational handprints – THE DAWN OF A NEW AGE, new ways of living and working together – the practice of SHARING. So I placed acrylic cement like material on the canvas and having practiced the drawing for ages, scratched it freehand onto the surface. Now 4yrs later, that image still shines through, inspiring the viewer,a powerful work of art, 5,000 yrs old.
There are free talks to schools and groups of all kinds. If you would like me to bring The Handprint Project to your event please contact me.
The Future is in our hands
Mary Breach Art 