Creation is My Refuge. This artistic mantra became a collection of poetry that celebrates the joy, freedom, and clarity found in the act of creation—inspired by the artwork of Georgia-based painter, Mari Chan. The Scribes were asked to respond to four original pieces by Mari, immersing themselves in her world of color & emotion, finding visual inspiration in her creations. Some of the poems were written in response to an individual painting; some consider the impact of her artwork as a whole. Still others are confessional expressions of honesty that reveal how creativity—be it through painting, poetry, or another medium entirely—is a safe space for each of us to explore our experiences, capture our feelings (however fleeting), and carry out conversations with our own souls. Included are the four artworks by Mari with a bit of background on each piece, followed by a Q&A with the artist in which she discusses her painting journey, sources of inspiration, art as therapy, and more. Her insight into the healing power of art is profound, and the proof is in the poetry. Here, we revel in the haven of creation, where free expression allows us to better understand ourselves and share our hearts with others, discovering connection in creativity.

As a continuation of our digital collection, Poems from the Cosmos, today the Dandelion Scribes present Aliens, Auras, and the Abyss! The following selection of poetry explores the possibilities of life, beyond—from a variety of perspectives and experiences. Whether real or imaginary, observed or created, these aliens & other-worlds presented in poetry ask us to consider infinity, connection, change, and collaboration, as well as confusion, exploitation, degradation, and manipulation. Here, realms & realities collide as the Scribes continue on the never-ending quest to traverse the universe, seeking understanding with pen in hand.