Art

Explore the transformative power of art in our ART category. Here, we celebrate creativity in all its forms, from visual arts and photography to music and performance. Discover how art influences the subconscious mind, fuels spiritual growth, and reflects the beauty of the human experience. Dive into interviews with inspiring artists, uncover the symbolism in their work, and learn how to incorporate artistic practices into your daily life for enhanced mindfulness and connection. Join us in appreciating the profound impact of art on the human psyche and spirit.
Amazing image of surfer Gabriel Medina 'standing on air' celebrating his 9.9 score goes viral

Iconic Moments in Photography

Decisive Moment in Photography – Capturing the Iconic Moment

It’s viral. It’s iconic. It’s impossible to stop thinking about the decisive moment in photography and its correlation with Divine Timing. That moment of perfect alignment, and the photographer’s presence in the moment, when everything just clicks perfectly. These are the moments when a photographer feels in their gut that the perfect shot is coming—knowing.

Gabriel Medina, suspended in mid-air, defying gravity, is one such moment. This image is ethereal and dreamlike. It captures the essence of both athletic prowess and perfect presence and focus, almost meditation type state. In the high-stakes arena of Olympic competition, amidst the surge of adrenaline, Medina appears to float peacefully above the water, embodying a powerful blend of control and calm.

The magic lies not only in Medina’s mastery but also in the photographer’s skill and intuition. You can read HERE how the photographer Jerome Brouillet got this shot. The synchronicity between athlete and artist, the anticipation, and the precise timing come together to create an iconic photograph. This is a moment in time-space reality where an image transcends its immediate context, achieving a timeless quality that resonates with masses.

This photo captures a stunning moment of Gabriel Medina seemingly defying gravity, suspended above the water in a way that feels almost magical. The image indeed exudes a meditative quality, blending the intensity of competition with a serene, dreamlike state. It beautifully encapsulates the blend of adrenaline and calm, the high stakes of Olympic games, and the pure mastery of the sport. Medina’s powerful presence and control over his body, manipulating physical reality to achieve this ‘floating’ effect, is awe-inspiring and resonates deeply with viewers, evoking a sense of wonder and admiration.

Such photographs impress our collective subconscious deeply and profoundly, becoming symbols that speak to the human spirit. They capture more than just a scene; they encapsulate a feeling, an experience, a slice of the sublime. They remind us of the beauty in perfect moments, Divine Timing and The Power of Now, where preparation meets opportunity, and the extraordinary is captured in an instant.

July 31, 2024
The weight of thoughts by artist

The Weight of Thoughts: Self-Discovery and Mindfulness Journey

many of us find ourselves trapped in our thoughts, overwhelmed by worries, plans, and constant mental chatter. Thomas Lerooy’s sculpture, “The Weight of Thought,” poignantly captures this experience. It offers us a visual representation of the burdens our minds often bear.

Lerooy’s original idea for the sculpture stemmed from his struggle to focus on one concept for an upcoming exhibition. This challenge became the artwork’s central theme. “That endless search became, at a certain point, the main idea. I was searching a step above my capacity—going further than my mind possibly could reach,” Lerooy said. This led to the creation of a piece that illustrates the fight between mind and body, inside and outside.

The weight of thoughts sculpture
The Weight of thoughts by Thomas Lerooy

Symbolism and Connection

The sculpture, resonates deeply with those of us who spend a lot of time in our heads. Time to time, we are all guilty of pushing our rational mind to give us answers and solutions for the things it’s not designed to do. The enormous head symbolizes the overwhelming nature of our thoughts and the weight they can impose on our daily lives.

The Artist is reminding us that this mental burden is not a modern phenomenon but a universal human condition. Being too much in our heads, like overthinking, are often linked to the egoic mind, which constantly seeks control and certainty.

Reflections on Mindfulness

artist Thomas Lerooy

“The Weight of Thought” invites us to consider the importance of mindfulness. When we are present and aware, we can alleviate some of the mental burdens that weigh us down. This sculpture serves as a reminder to find balance and to not let our thoughts dominate our sense of well-being.

Art has its way of saying things that words alone cannot. Observing this artwork can be a meditative act, encouraging us to pause and reflect on our own thought patterns. It highlights the need to cultivate inner peace amidst the chatter of our minds.

A Shared Human Experience

Lerooy’s sculptures resonate with most people, because being in our heads is a part of collective experience and simply being a human. It resonates, because we all experienced the weight of our own thoughts.

The physical imbalance of the sculpture is like a mirror that reflects to us the instability that excessive thinking can bring to our lives. It reminds us of the importance of grounding ourselves and finding stability through practices that promote mental clarity and emotional balance.

Consclusion

Thomas Lerooy’s “The Weight of Thought” is more than just a piece of art; it is a profound commentary on the human condition. It captures the essence of what it means to be lost in thought and the importance of finding balance and mindfulness.

At The Shift Magazine, we celebrate artworks like this that inspire introspection and personal growth, urging us to find peace within the chaos of our minds.

For more insights into transformative art, visit our ART category.

July 26, 2024

Post Gallery – Carousel

Mavik Banner: physician; scientist. Searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths that all humans have… then an accidental overdose of gamma radiation alters his body chemistry. And now when David Banner grows angry or outraged, a startling metamorphosis occurs. The creature is driven by rage and pursued by an investigative reporter. The creature is wanted for a murder he didn’t commit. David Banner is believed to be dead, and he must let the world think that he is dead, until he can find a way to control the raging spirit that dwells within him.

What would we do baby, without us?

I bet we been together for a million years, And I bet we’ll be together for a million more. Oh, It’s like I started breathing on the night we kissed, and I can’t remember what I ever did before. What would we do baby, without us? What would we do baby, without us? And there ain’t no nothing we can’t love each other through. What would we do baby, without us? Sha la la la.

Here’s the story of a lovely lady

Here’s the story of a lovely lady, who was bringing up three very lovely girls. All of them had hair of gold, like their mother, the youngest one in curls. Here’s the store, of a man named Brady, who was busy with three boys of his own. They were four men, living all together, yet they were all alone. ‘Til the one day when the lady met this fellow. And they knew it was much more than a hunch, that this group would somehow form a family. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch, the Brady Bunch. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch. The Brady Bunch!

Who can turn the world on with her smile? Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? Well it’s you girl, and you should know it. With each glance and every little movement you show it. Love is all around, no need to waste it. You can have a town, why don’t you take it. You’re gonna make it after all. You’re gonna make it after all.

In time of ancient gods, warlords and kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a hero. She was Xena, a mighty princess forged in the heat of battle. The power. The passion. The danger. Her courage will change the world.

Being evil has a price. I hear a lot of little secrets. Tell me yours, and I’ll keep it. You oughta know my name by now, better think twice. Being evil has a price. I’ve got a nasty reputation. Not a bit of hesitation, you better think twice. ‘Cause being evil has a price.

The time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights. It’s time to meet the Muppets on the Muppet Show tonight! It’s time to put on makeup, it’s time to dress up right. It’s time to raise the curtain on the Muppet Show tonight. Why do we always come here? I guess we’ll never know. It’s like a kind of torture to have to watch the show! And now let’s get things started – why don’t you get things started? It’s time to get things started on the most sensational inspirational celebrational Muppetational… This is what we call the Muppet Show!

Chosen from among all others by the Immortal Elders – Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, Mercury – Billy Batson and his mentor travel the highways and byways of the land on a never-ending mission: to right wrongs, to develop understanding, and to seek justice for all! In time of dire need, young Billy has been granted the power by the Immortals to summon awesome forces at the utterance of a single word – SHAZAM – a word which transforms him in a flash into the mightiest of mortal beings, Captain Marvel!

July 25, 2024

Last Trip to Pakistan

Mavik Banner: physician; scientist. Searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths that all humans have… then an accidental overdose of gamma radiation alters his body chemistry. And now when David Banner grows angry or outraged, a startling metamorphosis occurs. The creature is driven by rage and pursued by an investigative reporter. The creature is wanted for a murder he didn’t commit. David Banner is believed to be dead, and he must let the world think that he is dead, until he can find a way to control the raging spirit that dwells within him.

What would we do baby, without us?

I bet we been together for a million years, And I bet we’ll be together for a million more. Oh, It’s like I started breathing on the night we kissed, and I can’t remember what I ever did before. What would we do baby, without us? What would we do baby, without us? And there ain’t no nothing we can’t love each other through. What would we do baby, without us? Sha la la la.

Here’s the story of a lovely lady

Here’s the story of a lovely lady, who was bringing up three very lovely girls. All of them had hair of gold, like their mother, the youngest one in curls. Here’s the store, of a man named Brady, who was busy with three boys of his own. They were four men, living all together, yet they were all alone. ‘Til the one day when the lady met this fellow. And they knew it was much more than a hunch, that this group would somehow form a family. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch, the Brady Bunch. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch. The Brady Bunch!

Who can turn the world on with her smile? Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? Well it’s you girl, and you should know it. With each glance and every little movement you show it. Love is all around, no need to waste it. You can have a town, why don’t you take it. You’re gonna make it after all. You’re gonna make it after all.

In time of ancient gods, warlords and kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a hero. She was Xena, a mighty princess forged in the heat of battle. The power. The passion. The danger. Her courage will change the world.

Being evil has a price. I hear a lot of little secrets. Tell me yours, and I’ll keep it. You oughta know my name by now, better think twice. Being evil has a price. I’ve got a nasty reputation. Not a bit of hesitation, you better think twice. ‘Cause being evil has a price.

The time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights. It’s time to meet the Muppets on the Muppet Show tonight! It’s time to put on makeup, it’s time to dress up right. It’s time to raise the curtain on the Muppet Show tonight. Why do we always come here? I guess we’ll never know. It’s like a kind of torture to have to watch the show! And now let’s get things started – why don’t you get things started? It’s time to get things started on the most sensational inspirational celebrational Muppetational… This is what we call the Muppet Show!

Chosen from among all others by the Immortal Elders – Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, Mercury – Billy Batson and his mentor travel the highways and byways of the land on a never-ending mission: to right wrongs, to develop understanding, and to seek justice for all! In time of dire need, young Billy has been granted the power by the Immortals to summon awesome forces at the utterance of a single word – SHAZAM – a word which transforms him in a flash into the mightiest of mortal beings, Captain Marvel!

July 25, 2024

Post Gallery – Grid

Mavik Banner: physician; scientist. Searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths that all humans have… then an accidental overdose of gamma radiation alters his body chemistry. And now when David Banner grows angry or outraged, a startling metamorphosis occurs. The creature is driven by rage and pursued by an investigative reporter. The creature is wanted for a murder he didn’t commit. David Banner is believed to be dead, and he must let the world think that he is dead, until he can find a way to control the raging spirit that dwells within him.

What would we do baby, without us?

I bet we been together for a million years, And I bet we’ll be together for a million more. Oh, It’s like I started breathing on the night we kissed, and I can’t remember what I ever did before. What would we do baby, without us? What would we do baby, without us? And there ain’t no nothing we can’t love each other through. What would we do baby, without us? Sha la la la.

Here’s the story of a lovely lady

Here’s the story of a lovely lady, who was bringing up three very lovely girls. All of them had hair of gold, like their mother, the youngest one in curls. Here’s the store, of a man named Brady, who was busy with three boys of his own. They were four men, living all together, yet they were all alone. ‘Til the one day when the lady met this fellow. And they knew it was much more than a hunch, that this group would somehow form a family. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch, the Brady Bunch. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch. The Brady Bunch!

Who can turn the world on with her smile? Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? Well it’s you girl, and you should know it. With each glance and every little movement you show it. Love is all around, no need to waste it. You can have a town, why don’t you take it. You’re gonna make it after all. You’re gonna make it after all.

In time of ancient gods, warlords and kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a hero. She was Xena, a mighty princess forged in the heat of battle. The power. The passion. The danger. Her courage will change the world.

Being evil has a price. I hear a lot of little secrets. Tell me yours, and I’ll keep it. You oughta know my name by now, better think twice. Being evil has a price. I’ve got a nasty reputation. Not a bit of hesitation, you better think twice. ‘Cause being evil has a price.

The time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights. It’s time to meet the Muppets on the Muppet Show tonight! It’s time to put on makeup, it’s time to dress up right. It’s time to raise the curtain on the Muppet Show tonight. Why do we always come here? I guess we’ll never know. It’s like a kind of torture to have to watch the show! And now let’s get things started – why don’t you get things started? It’s time to get things started on the most sensational inspirational celebrational Muppetational… This is what we call the Muppet Show!

Chosen from among all others by the Immortal Elders – Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, Mercury – Billy Batson and his mentor travel the highways and byways of the land on a never-ending mission: to right wrongs, to develop understanding, and to seek justice for all! In time of dire need, young Billy has been granted the power by the Immortals to summon awesome forces at the utterance of a single word – SHAZAM – a word which transforms him in a flash into the mightiest of mortal beings, Captain Marvel!

July 25, 2024

Post Gallery – Slider

Mavik Banner: physician; scientist. Searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths that all humans have… then an accidental overdose of gamma radiation alters his body chemistry. And now when David Banner grows angry or outraged, a startling metamorphosis occurs. The creature is driven by rage and pursued by an investigative reporter. The creature is wanted for a murder he didn’t commit. David Banner is believed to be dead, and he must let the world think that he is dead, until he can find a way to control the raging spirit that dwells within him.

What would we do baby, without us?

I bet we been together for a million years, And I bet we’ll be together for a million more. Oh, It’s like I started breathing on the night we kissed, and I can’t remember what I ever did before. What would we do baby, without us? What would we do baby, without us? And there ain’t no nothing we can’t love each other through. What would we do baby, without us? Sha la la la.

Here’s the story of a lovely lady

Here’s the story of a lovely lady, who was bringing up three very lovely girls. All of them had hair of gold, like their mother, the youngest one in curls. Here’s the store, of a man named Brady, who was busy with three boys of his own. They were four men, living all together, yet they were all alone. ‘Til the one day when the lady met this fellow. And they knew it was much more than a hunch, that this group would somehow form a family. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch, the Brady Bunch. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch. The Brady Bunch!

Who can turn the world on with her smile? Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? Well it’s you girl, and you should know it. With each glance and every little movement you show it. Love is all around, no need to waste it. You can have a town, why don’t you take it. You’re gonna make it after all. You’re gonna make it after all.

In time of ancient gods, warlords and kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a hero. She was Xena, a mighty princess forged in the heat of battle. The power. The passion. The danger. Her courage will change the world.

Being evil has a price. I hear a lot of little secrets. Tell me yours, and I’ll keep it. You oughta know my name by now, better think twice. Being evil has a price. I’ve got a nasty reputation. Not a bit of hesitation, you better think twice. ‘Cause being evil has a price.

The time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights. It’s time to meet the Muppets on the Muppet Show tonight! It’s time to put on makeup, it’s time to dress up right. It’s time to raise the curtain on the Muppet Show tonight. Why do we always come here? I guess we’ll never know. It’s like a kind of torture to have to watch the show! And now let’s get things started – why don’t you get things started? It’s time to get things started on the most sensational inspirational celebrational Muppetational… This is what we call the Muppet Show!

Chosen from among all others by the Immortal Elders – Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, Mercury – Billy Batson and his mentor travel the highways and byways of the land on a never-ending mission: to right wrongs, to develop understanding, and to seek justice for all! In time of dire need, young Billy has been granted the power by the Immortals to summon awesome forces at the utterance of a single word – SHAZAM – a word which transforms him in a flash into the mightiest of mortal beings, Captain Marvel!

July 25, 2024
Helmut Newton Black and White Photography and Subconscious Mind

Black and White Photography – Unveiling the Subconscious Mind

There’s something undeniably compelling about black and white photography. Perhaps it’s the stark contrasts, the play of shadows, or the way it strips down reality to its bare essentials. In many ways, black and white photography is like a window into our subconscious mind, where everything is simplified, yet profoundly complex.

Photography by Erwin Elliott

The Power of Black and White Photography

Focus and Simplicity

One of the most powerful aspects of black and white photography is its ability to focus our attention on the core elements of a scene. By eliminating the distraction of color, we are left with shapes, textures, and contrasts that might otherwise go unnoticed. It’s a bit like the way our subconscious mind filters out the noise of everyday life, honing in on what truly matters.

Emotional Depth

Photography by Erwin Elliott

There’s a timeless quality to black and white images that can evoke deep emotions. It’s reminiscent of the contemplative nature of dreams, where we often explore our inner worlds. Just as a dream can leave us pondering its meaning, a black and white photograph can make us reflect on the essence of what we see.

Photography by Erwin Elliott

Symbolism and Metaphor

Dreams and the subconscious mind are known for their use of symbols and metaphors to communicate deeper truths.

In the same vein, black and white photography often captures scenes in a way that transcends the literal, inviting viewers to find their own interpretations. A single image can hold multiple layers of meaning, much like the symbols in our dreams.

Focus on Details

Have you ever noticed how dreams can zoom in on specific details that we might overlook in our waking life? Black and white photography has a similar effect. By stripping away color, it brings out the rawness and essence of a moment, allowing us to see the world with fresh eyes.

Light and Shadow

Photography, at its core, is about capturing light. In black and white photography, the interplay of light and shadow becomes even more pronounced, creating mood and depth. This manipulation of light mirrors the way our subconscious mind brings hidden aspects of ourselves to light, casting shadows on our deepest thoughts and emotions.

Black and White Photography and Subconscious Mind

Capturing the Unseen

Both photography and the subconscious mind have a knack for revealing what is often hidden from everyday perception. Through a lens or a dream, we catch glimpses of deeper realities that lie beneath the surface. These moments of revelation can be profoundly transformative, offering insights into who we are and what we truly desire.

Photography by Helmut Newton

In conclusion, black and white photography is more than just an art form. It’s a means of exploring our inner landscapes. By focusing on light, shadow, and essential details, it mirrors the workings of the subconscious mind, capturing the unseen and highlighting the essence of our experiences. In this way, black and white photography becomes a powerful tool for self-discovery, helping us to document the dream of life in all its beautiful complexity.

So next time you find yourself captivated by a black and white photograph, take a moment to reflect on what it might be revealing about your own subconscious mind. You might just discover something new about yourself in the process.

July 25, 2024

The first thing I remember liking that liked me back was food

Mavik Banner: physician; scientist. Searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths that all humans have… then an accidental overdose of gamma radiation alters his body chemistry. And now when David Banner grows angry or outraged, a startling metamorphosis occurs. The creature is driven by rage and pursued by an investigative reporter. The creature is wanted for a murder he didn’t commit. David Banner is believed to be dead, and he must let the world think that he is dead, until he can find a way to control the raging spirit that dwells within him.

What would we do baby, without us?

I bet we been together for a million years, And I bet we’ll be together for a million more. Oh, It’s like I started breathing on the night we kissed, and I can’t remember what I ever did before. What would we do baby, without us? What would we do baby, without us? And there ain’t no nothing we can’t love each other through. What would we do baby, without us? Sha la la la.

Here’s the story of a lovely lady

Here’s the story of a lovely lady, who was bringing up three very lovely girls. All of them had hair of gold, like their mother, the youngest one in curls. Here’s the store, of a man named Brady, who was busy with three boys of his own. They were four men, living all together, yet they were all alone. ‘Til the one day when the lady met this fellow. And they knew it was much more than a hunch, that this group would somehow form a family. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch, the Brady Bunch. That’s the way we all became the Brady Bunch. The Brady Bunch!

Who can turn the world on with her smile? Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? Well it’s you girl, and you should know it. With each glance and every little movement you show it. Love is all around, no need to waste it. You can have a town, why don’t you take it. You’re gonna make it after all. You’re gonna make it after all.

In time of ancient gods, warlords and kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a hero. She was Xena, a mighty princess forged in the heat of battle. The power. The passion. The danger. Her courage will change the world.

Being evil has a price. I hear a lot of little secrets. Tell me yours, and I’ll keep it. You oughta know my name by now, better think twice. Being evil has a price. I’ve got a nasty reputation. Not a bit of hesitation, you better think twice. ‘Cause being evil has a price.

The time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights. It’s time to meet the Muppets on the Muppet Show tonight! It’s time to put on makeup, it’s time to dress up right. It’s time to raise the curtain on the Muppet Show tonight. Why do we always come here? I guess we’ll never know. It’s like a kind of torture to have to watch the show! And now let’s get things started – why don’t you get things started? It’s time to get things started on the most sensational inspirational celebrational Muppetational… This is what we call the Muppet Show!

Chosen from among all others by the Immortal Elders – Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, Mercury – Billy Batson and his mentor travel the highways and byways of the land on a never-ending mission: to right wrongs, to develop understanding, and to seek justice for all! In time of dire need, young Billy has been granted the power by the Immortals to summon awesome forces at the utterance of a single word – SHAZAM – a word which transforms him in a flash into the mightiest of mortal beings, Captain Marvel!

July 25, 2024