Bridget Riley is a British artist born in 1931. She became a pioneer of perceptual abstract in the Op Art Movement. She precisely painted optical illusions creating a third dimension on a two dimensional canvas. Her pieces move, vibrate and sparkle in this illusion. Movement in Squares is part of her body of work from 7 years of using only black and white. Riley is quoted as saying “The pleasures of sight have one characteristic in common – they take you by surprise.”

This painting seems to surprise us as a “checkered flag with a wobble.” It seems to be signaling the beginning of the race of 2023 as it also reminds us of the transition we are still living. We are somewhat back after the disruption of Covid but not completely. It seems there will continue to be unpredictable, wavy places in our experience. This reality may be part of all the new year will bring.

And God will be with us through it all. May our prayers be for guidance, patience, sustained relationships and peace in the days ahead. May we ask to bring joy to the world and all the people in it with God joining our resolution. Amen.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church