The Art of Seeing
Plotinus and the Soul
with Mary Attwood
Thursday 27th October 2022 – 7:00pm-8:00pm (UK time) via Zoom
£10
“We must close our eyes and invoke a new manner of seeing, a wakefulness that is the birthright of us all, though few put it to use.
What, then, is this inner vision?”
Plotinus
What is this new manner of seeing, the wakefulness that all of us have, yet few realise, as Plotinus suggests? In October’s Art of Seeing session we will take as our starting point, Plotinus’ thoughts on the awakening of the soul, and allow these to guide us into a deeper participation with one work of art. Plotinus addresses some of the deepest questions at the heart of the human quest for understanding, and with this are his thoughts on the role of the work of art. Plotinus describes the effects of remaining adrift from the soul as a ‘loss of wings’. He posits that an image which is created through ‘participation’, and moulded in specific ways, may awaken and elevate the human soul.
Known as the ‘Doctor of the Soul’ and a Neoplatonist, Plotinus’ writings are both beautifully mystical and highly theoretical as he maps out a cosmology incorporating the One, the Intellect and the Soul. Often ideas around the soul can seem abstract, but when we consider them in relation to a great work of art, they move from being abstractions, to a visionary encounter of metaphysical realities.
These sessions offer theory, participation and reflection as a way to draw together the threads of historical context, meaning and a personal encounter with a work of art.
We will contemplate the role of the image in cultivating both an outer and an inner vision. The work of art will not be revealed until the evening but it is by an artist whose understanding was steeped in Plotinus’ ideas. Through its beauty and its peace, it is a work of art which evokes a rich questioning into the nature of the soul and its journey with the human form.
This session is £10 per household. If you are not a fan of PayPal you can email Mary directly at info@maryattwood.com
For those who cannot attend live, there will be a recording available.
BOOKING: Please book through Mary Attwood’s website here
