Accepting the Universe

To say that man*?is as good as God would to most persons seem like blasphemy; but to say that man is as good as Nature would disturb no one. Man is a part of Nature, or a phase of Nature, and shares in what we call her imperfections. But what is Nature a part of, or a phase of? — and what or who is its author? I

Is it not true that this earth which is so familiar to us is as good as yonder morning or evening star and made of the same stuff? — just as much in the heavens, just as truly a celestial abode as it is? Venus seems to us like a great jewel in the crown of night or morning. From Venus the earth would seem like a still larger jewel.

The heavens seem afar off and free from all stains and impurities of earth; we lift our eyes and our hearts to them as to the face of the Eternal, but our science reveals no body or place there so suitable for human abode and human happiness as this earth. In fact, this planet is the only desirable heaven of which we have any clue.

John Burroughs Essays in Naturalism 1920

This work by Padma Shri Bhajju Shyam portrays the beauty of Burroughs words.Bhajju's deer with the tree as its canopy and strength and beauty are about the inherent faith of a naturalist.Bhajju's work revels in the beauty of trees.His solo show opens in Kolkata on 30 July 2022 at Aakriti Gallery and it will be a treat for the senses.In his world the forest awakens at night and the creatures and trees talk to each other.It is an honour to curate his solo show.His journey of being a watchman to one of India's greatest tribal artists is an odyssey to behold.Ultimately life is about accepting the universe and finding all things bright and beautiful,all creatures great and small.