VĪRYA – OF THE MESSENGER

Artist Residency Featuring the work and
Curated Programing
Modus Locus Expansion Space, Minneapolis, MN
By Gregory J. Rose

Within my process there lies a deep understanding of improvisation, freedom, flexibility- adaptability; harnessed to be at peace or comfortable with uncomfortable- vulnerability.

A space I hold dear as an educator – where I remain humble to the idea that I still am in fact a student as well in this complex world. Vīrya- or “energy” in the Buddhist tradition Sanskrit language. Among many other cultures and spiritual teachings, considered to mean: Exertion, Valor, Hero/ or Heroic deed(s), Vigor, Valor, Persistence, Strength- - POWER……. Literally- Vīray is defined as:

“STATE OF THE STRONG HUMAN”

The “State”-(s) I resided in- on the East Coast, West Coast, South, North and now the Midwest. The “state” of mind that the above geographies give birth too. The “state” of my family both chosen and by blood. The “state” of the world socially and environmentally.

The – Energy – that has shaped how I communicate and function on this planet I call home.

HOME- that has been a message and a space that has eluded me in the traditional sense. I have found – Home; finally, within myself. I have been attempting to give, grow, maintain and open a “Home” for many years, in so many diverse pathways. To find that “Home” is not only where your heart and body and mind find themselves. “Home” is an energy, a space that transcends all limitations and defies vast laws of nature and culture.

This exhibition and Artist’s Residency is about my “Vīrya”, my energy, my power. Understanding, learning, accepting – and owning my “Power”. We all live both positive and negative: neutral, blocked – and what hopefully finds itself as flowing “Energy”- Vīrya!

I came to this place of thought while shifting my mental, physical and environmental energies due to what we could considered- and expedition into the suffering, loss and sacrifice.

Jack Kornfield: in his book, After the Ecstasy the Laundry- How the Heart Grows Wise on the Spiritual Path:

In Part I, “Returning to Our Home” pg.22-23; writes:

For me growing up on the East Coast meant the pleasure of seeing fireflies in summer……………………

Our hearts shine in the same way as the fireflies, with the same light as the sun and the moon. Within us is a secret longing to remember the light, to step out of time, to feel our true place in this dancing world. It’s where we began and where we return.

Welcome to my light – welcome to my family- welcome, HOME, - to shine and find your light among the – FIREFLIES.