Lined with Anguish
On February 20th, I embarked on a thrilling journey to Europe to deliver a much-anticipated lecture at the University of Southern Denmark. The excitement was palpable as I landed on the continent, eager to explore new sights and sounds.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to connect with old friends and colleagues, visit breathtaking castles and museums, and attend some of the most incredible art exhibitions I've ever seen. My good friend Else Marie Bukdahl, who kindly hosted my husband and me at her flat in Copenhagen, made the experience even more enjoyable.
But the real adventure began when Else Marie and I traveled to Madrid. For five glorious days, we immersed ourselves in the art world. We visited a different museum daily, spending hours discussing and interpreting the works we saw. The highlight for me was undoubtedly the Prado Museum, where we delved deep into the Renaissance and Baroque paintings.
One particular piece caught my eye: Francisco de Zubarán's St. Peter the Apostle Appearing to St. Peter Nolasco (1629). The painting depicted the apparition of St. Peter in a hauntingly beautiful way that stirred deep emotions in me. Shrouded by a hollow darkness, the Saint's figure conjured the spirit of isolation and enlightenment. It was a masterpiece that genuinely took my breath away.
But little did I know that this painting would soon take on a new and even more profound meaning in my life. When I returned home amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I was self-quarantined and living in a world turned upside down. It was a time of great uncertainty and fear.
However, Zubarán's painting became a beacon of hope for me in these dark times. As I looked at the Saint's expression of perseverance and resilience, I found my spirit uplifted. Throughout history, countries like Spain have endured epidemics and still managed to thrive, and I was filled with hope that we would do the same.
Despite the chaos and turmoil of the world, there is still beauty and hope to be found in the small moments of life. From calls with loved ones to walks with my dogs, I found joy in the simple things that made each day a little brighter.
-LP
Else Marie Bukdahl and I in front of the Prado Museum. Madrid, Spain, 2020.
