Stillness In Motion: Ink Drawings By Norman Galinsky

Norman Galinsky’s artwork has been inspired and informed by his background in science and engineering and his ongoing interest in metaphysical issues and explorations of consciousness.

The recent works involve the free-hand application of small marks to construct larger, intuitively derived geometric patterns. The compositions are produced through a meditative approach, a practice of focused attention and intention, often using ancient sacred geometric forms and proportions. I call the work “process oriented” because I maintain an intimate connection with the act of generating the works by hand. Thus, I remain an engaged and active participant in the creation, rather than an observer.

The images suggest emissions of energy waves and particles, vibrating fields and networks that denote a synthesis between the material world and a hidden quantum universe. Many of the works utilize symmetry and circular imagery of converging forms, a central focus of “stillness” to express the unity of consciousness—the one shared life.

I want my images to encourage thinking as well as feeling, to challenge as well as to promote healing and balance, to connect the personal with the universal order, and to draw one into a dialog with the present moment in ways that intimate the future.

Norman Galinsky’s artwork has been inspired by his background in science and engineering and his ongoing studies of metaphysics and spiritual issues.

His art studies began with a focus on traditional renaissance oil and egg tempera painting techniques, followed by classes with Henry Pearson at the New School and with Will Barnet and George Tooker at the Art Students League in NYC. In the late 1960’s, he participated in the Experiments in Art and Technology program developed by Billy Kluver and Robert Rauschenburg. After a seven-year career in chemical engineering, he left industry and turned fully to art, earning an MFA degree from Columbia University in 1973. At Columbia he studied painting with Philip Guston, Jack Tworkov, and Stamos, and printmaking with Bob Blackburn and Tony Harrison.

In addition, his artwork has been shaped by his 20 year experience in the practice and teaching of Chinese healing exercises and martial arts, including qigong, Taiji Quan, and other meditative and energetic healing disciplines. He has taught these forms in his studio as well as in area hospitals, including: New York Presbyterian (under the direction of Dr. Mehmet Oz), Englewood Hospital, Nyack Cancer Center, and St. John’s Riverside Hospital in Yonkers, NY.

By synthesizing and translating the seemingly disparate worlds of the quantum sciences and spirituality into compelling images, Galinsky’s art depicts the evolving dynamic order underlying our world today and forecasts possibilities for the future.