About Carl Wilson’s exhibition “My Autumn Bloom of Concrete Flowers:
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
— Matthew 13: 45, 46 New International Version
As a young man in my early twenties, I longed for many material things including a fast sports car with a convertible top, expensive bell-bottom blue jeans, and a brand-new eight-track stereo tape deck capable of blasting Sly & The Family Stone; all enjoyed in the company of a girl even faster than the sports car. Fortunately, for me, I never got any of those things.
As I age I have found what I assign high value to has changed drastically. I long for almost nothing these days as I have discovered I already have much more than I need. Material things may have monetary value, but their worth is fleeting. The constant lust for acquiring more is what propels this greedy commercial system we are afflicted with, a system that has come very close to destroying this planet. Humanity is dangerously divided and at severe risk. Blinded by greed and a lust for power many can’t even see what’s happening. We seem to have lost our moral compass.
A series of medical emergencies did everything to correct my vision and value system. My vanity keeps me from saying I’m old, but I know I’m certainly not young. I realize there are more days behind than there are ahead, I am in the autumn of my years and I intend to make the most out of whatever time is left. The work in this exhibition briefly examines how I got to this place in time and what I have come to place the most value on.
I have made many mistakes in this life. I hope those I disappointed can forgive me. After many years I am finally ready to forgive myself. As I look back I see I have received an abundance of love. I have family and friends that love me. I can find great pleasure in the simplest things; a good laugh, a great meal, a good night’s sleep.
Love is the kingdom of heaven. I would do anything for love. Love is the only thing that matters. That is what makes one rich.
The reception will take place on Saturday, July 13th from 6pm-10pm