When reflecting on the theme I was drawn to the kaleidoscope for many reasons, including its appeal that reaches back to childhood. Holding the hollow, long cylinder filled with small, colored objects such as glass or beads, to the light, was awe inspiring. Peering into one end, and observing the vibrant symmetrical patterns that resulted from light entering the other, was magical. As the tube is rotated again and again, more patterns result from the reflection off the mirrors placed inside at different angles. The kaleidoscope can be a metaphor for many things. An artist can approach it from various angles and choose to focus on one or more qualities it holds. The object and word is ripe for many interpretations. Each of the artists was invited to reflect on the theme as they saw fit.
