Childs Eyes --- Manitou Springs

 There is an innocence to life as a child, and far to often it is washed way too quickly.  As we grow into adulthood we quit asking questions, and take life for granted.  It is only as a child that we look at each new experience as an adventure, natural beauty is lost in maturity.

Walking through Manitou with this assignment it helped be more intentional in witnessing the natural beauty and taking the time to stop and see my surroundings.

Aspects of adulthood blind us to much of the world around us.  We walk through places with purpose, driven.  Often needed, but it is important in life to take a breath, pause and take time out of our day.



After taking a breath, and opening my eyes I could see a side of Manitou Springs I likely would have missed.  The following mosaic was tucked away in an unlikely place, and really makes me think of where all these pieces had come from.  Although shattered and broken, through someones vision they were re-purposed and now brighten up peoples day.

The culture of Manitou Springs can be seen in the numerous shops, as well as the public art.  This small piece shows how Manitou has a strong Native American heritage.  The absract element of the piece requires individuals to call upon that childhood mind-set and see the wolf howling up and the moon.

With all of the public art, both placed intentionally, or done by the scribbling artist you can see how Manitou Springs is different.  The city almost as a whiteboard for individuals to express themselves.  It is tempting to sit down and watch as the entire city tries to expresses something larger.  In being able to just breathe and see how the city works you can get a glimpse, albeit small, into how this town may have developed.