AFP photo by Robert Michael
Myth met reality this week when we were treated to the phenomenon of a 'supermoon'- technically known as a perigree full moon for its proximity to the earth. The photos from all over the world are spectacular - this eye-popping example is from Dresden, Germany. I'm a big fan of the moon (I'm hardly unique - you probably are too) for its often startling beauty and the magical nature of its perceived changes.
Arthur Dove: Me and the Moon 1937
Human may have trod on the surface, planting flags and leaving dusty footprints, but when that silvery ball or sliver hangs up there among the stars on a dark night, it's easy to understand why humans have always found it a source of mystery and power, for good and for bad. The full moon can bring riches and cure warts, but it can also drive you mad.
Hiroshige: Saruwaka (late 19th c)
A full moon is always an event - with our scientific mindsets we understand the movement of the tides, the moon's relation to the sun and earth, etc., and watch it simply for the pleasure it brings - but in a more agricultural time and place it signaled essential steps in the growing year. The names of the full moons for Native Americans identify expectations - Full Hunger Moon in February, Full Worm Moon in March when the ground starts to warm and life begins to reappear, Full Corn Moon in September, commonly known as the Harvest Moon, which marks the harvest and signals the Autumn equinox.
William Blake: The Wandering Moon 1820
I hope you got to see this month's 'supermoon' - I watched it with friends in NW Connecticut as it emerged dramatically from behind a thick bank of clouds and rose until the sky glowed silver - so beautiful! Many artists have tried their luck at catching moonbeams - in tribute to the moon, here is a selection from various times and places.
One of the moons comes from Maurice Sendak's In the Night Kitchen, published in 1970. His death yesterday means a great loss to children, to illustration, and much more - his legacy is enormous. He'll have his own tribute - coming soon.
One of the moons comes from Maurice Sendak's In the Night Kitchen, published in 1970. His death yesterday means a great loss to children, to illustration, and much more - his legacy is enormous. He'll have his own tribute - coming soon.
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