The following original drawings were created for the Musical Stories, published as our second collection in 2004 under the title of “Swinging Statues.” We’ve included a brief description of  what each graphic means to us about that part of our journey. Just one glance, and the memories come flooding back. Simply click on the drawing to go directly to the original story and lyrics along with other related links.

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This drawing is about change. “Swinging Statues” was a game we each remember playing when we were kids. We’d strike a pose, freeze in place. It was a game of endless possibility, limited only by imagination and balance. Anything goes. This image captures a feeling of almost spinning out of control. This simple drawing reminds us about requirements for change, even as adults—playful spirit, high energy, and risk-taking.

 

This drawing is about the importance of beliefs. We recognized at the beginning of our journey that the possibilities were primarily limited by our beliefs. This drawing connected us to the magic and openness of a new adventure. An air of mystery, enchantment and awe surrounded us.

 

This drawing about courage was especially important in the early days when we were first stepping out into the unknown. Everything was new and exciting, yet, there was also concern—sometimes flat-out fear. The image of being on a dance floor with others watching our every move is a metaphor for the self-conscious aspect of attempting significant change.

 

This drawing is about forgiveness. The famous church in Dresden Germany, the Frauenkirche, was bombed in WWII and rebuilt many years later as a symbol of peace. People joined together from both sides of the devastating conflict. The rebuilt structure carries a somber and critical message. Although Life can go terribly wrong, there is always the possibility of hope through cooperation. Grounded in reality with reverence for the past provides a sturdy foundation to begin again. Forgiveness is the key.

 

This drawing is about the fundamental nature of people. After evolving for hundreds of thousands of years, we are still hunters and always have been. One glance at this drawing takes us into the rhythm of the hunt. We realize that there may be different objectives in today’s world, but we are still part of a very long tradition of seekers—hunting for something we deem necessary for our survival.

 

This drawing is about the soul of a place. At the beginning of our journey we followed the advice of an intuitive to Europe, in search of a small secluded retreat—a one-room studio. Having a place in which to create begs the question: which comes first, the creation or the place that holds the creation and becomes soulful?

 

This drawing is about self-sabotage. Over the course of our decades-long journey, we have had countless doubts and challenges. A positive attitude is of critical importance. Yet human nature seems to lean toward insecurity. We sabotage our fragile dreams. Doubts creep nearby. We must be diligent and stay focused.

 

This drawing is about intuition. Sometimes they’re called gut feelings, senses, insights or simply a deep knowing. Subtle signals can help guide us, even when the mind tries to over-ride the feelings. The language of the soul invites us to become proficient listeners.

 

This drawing is about remembering the journey. We are pilgrims (actually young students) who shared a magical dream, wandering Europe together. In France, we explored the country chapel in Ronchamp. The sculptural form of the church created an indelible memory for us. The image reminds us of being seekers with nothing in our pockets, yet hearts filled with love.

 

This drawing is about vision. Michelangelo’s statue of the biblical figure of David is truly classic. It represents an artist’s vision. He created in reality a form previously only held in his imagination. The David is synonymous with gentle strength and a “piercing vision.” His unwavering gaze into an unknown, yet compelling future is inspiring.

 

This drawing is about pure adventure. We imagined ourselves jumping into the car, heading out onto the open road with the wind in our hair. The thrill of an outrageous adventure was so unbelievably satisfying and freeing. Of course, we knew there would be reckonings ahead, but the momentary exhileration of wild abandon would be forever emblazoned on our hearts.

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