the Tortured Soul of an Artist Grably’s Profound Reflections

 “On the Thirteenth day of the Tenth Month, Nineteen Sixty One, at Eleven Thirty at night, I emerged out of a woman's womb. The air surrounding me was cold and salty, misty. A dim yellow light came through the lashes of my eyes and into my soul, wrapping itself around the veins in my brain. The light that touched my moist, virgin skin, was filled with the remnants of my desperate struggle, dripping the water of life, passed shivers, and soft tremors filled with excitement through me. Ehud Grably was kidnapped by humanity from his divine sanctuary, from his womb, and since, I do not recall myself, because since then I create. The time of my first years on this earth, up until my fourteenth year, is still “not to be published,” still classified. I call the thought processes in which I operate an extremely ultra violet process. I create when viruses penetrate my brain, which cause artistic diseases, a short in the streams of my thought and the activation of a masochist mechanism, which is a condition for my creating. I transfer my visual ideas onto an acceptable medium. My brain is the playwright, I am the actor, and the medium is the stage. My entire body aches for those ultra violet moments of cosmic transcendence. 

I am living the dream, and dreaming reality.” 

Ehud Grably 1981

In the depths of artistic creation, few can articulate the tumultuous journey from inspiration to expression as poignantly as Ehud Grably. In a passage penned by him in 1981, Grably provides a visceral and intimate glimpse into the genesis of his creative process. His words, dripping with raw emotion and existential intensity, reveal a mind perpetually on the edge of transcendence, where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur into a single, electrifying experience. Grably’s birth was one marked by cosmic awareness. Grably’s narrative begins with his birth on a cold, misty night in 1961. This moment, described with a poetic intensity, is not just the beginning of his life but the inception of his consciousness as an artist. The “dim yellow light” that penetrates his eyes and soul symbolises the harsh yet illuminating reality of existence, a reality that Grably perceives with an acute sensitivity from his very first breath. This early encounter with the world’s rawness sets the stage for Grably’s lifelong exploration of human vulnerability and existential angst.

The imagery of a newborn shivering with excitement and the remnants of a “desperate struggle”encapsulates the dual nature of creation as both a painful and exhilarating process. Grably’s description of being “kidnapped by humanity” from his divine sanctuary, his mother’s womb, highlights Grably’s perpetual feeling of displacement and his search for a place within the human experience. This foundational dislocation fuels his drive to create, as he channels his profound sense of loss and yearning into his art. Grably’s concept of the “extremely ultra violet process” is particularly striking. Grably likens his artistic inspiration to a cerebral viral infection, an uncontrollable and sometimes painful invasion that triggers a masochistic mechanism within him that is essential for his artistic creations. This metaphor not only underscores the intensity of Grably’s creative drive but also reflects the often torturous path of translating his inner visions into tangible artistic forms. For Grably, the act of creation was a form of transcendence, a cosmic event where his physical and mental states were intertwined in a dance of agony and ecstasy.

In Grably’s view, the artistic process is a symphony of roles, his brain as the “playwright,” his physical body as the “actor,” and his artistic mediums as the “stage.” Grably’s holistic approach to art highlights his belief that true creation involves every aspect of one’s being. It is a total immersion in the act of bringing forth something that did not previously exist, a process that leaves the artist both drained and exhilarated. The “ultra violet moments” that Grably describes are those rare instances of pure, unfiltered creativity, where the artist becomes a conduit for cosmic energies and universal truths. Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Grably’s reflection is his assertion that he is “living the dream, and dreaming reality.” This statement encapsulates the dual nature of Grably’s entire existence, where the boundaries between his inner world and his external reality are fluid and ever-changing. For Grably, art is not simply a way of interpreting the world, it is a way of living and being. Grably’s artistic creations are extensions of his soul, manifestations of his dreams, and reflections of his vivid reality.

Grably’s profound reflection from 1981 offers invaluable insight into the mind of an artist who perceives creation as both a personal necessity and a cosmic duty. Grably’s words invite us to reconsider the traditional narratives of artistic inspiration, urging us to recognise the depth of emotion and existential inquiry that underpins true artistic expression. As we continue to rediscover and re-evaluate Grably’s contributions, we must honour the intensity and authenticity that defines his work, ensuring that his legacy is appreciated for its profound impact on our understanding of the human condition. Grably’s 1981 writing echoes themes from his earlier works, including his 1977 poem that poignantly captures the essence of his artistic and existential journey. Grably’s poem, filled with vivid imagery and profound symbolism, serves as a precursor to his later introspective writings. In the poem, Grably writes, “And life is like a ladder, in a never ending climb,” a sentiment that resonates with his later reflections on the perpetual struggle and transformation inherent in the creative process. The poem's exploration of identity and transformation, imbued in phrases such as “I think I am red,” “I think I am orange,” “I think I am a God,” and “I think I am a flute,” mirrors Grably’s “ultra violet” process, where his sense of self and reality constantly morphs in response to his artistic impulses. This fluidity of identity is also reflected in Grably’s 1981 statement, where he describes “living the dream and dreaming reality,” blurring the lines between his inner and outer worlds.

Furthermore, Grably’s "atom" analogy, as elaborated on in his reflections on art, underscores his belief in the fundamental elements of artistic creation. Grably compares the atom, the tiniest particle and the basis of all matter, to the core principles of art. Just as the discovery of the atom led to both constructive and destructive paths, Grably sees a similar dichotomy in art. Artists can either stagnate by endlessly refining basic forms, akin to creating "bombs," or innovate by exploring new fundamental elements, akin to harnessing atomic energy for peace. Grably’s “atom” analogy also aligns with his “ultra violet” process, where the penetration of artistic “viruses” sparks a reaction inside his brain, much like the interaction of particles at a subatomic level. This process of creation, marked by intense internal conflict and eventual catharsis, is a recurring motif in Grably’s oeuvre, reflecting his ongoing struggle to balance the chaos of inspiration with the order of artistic expression. Grably’s profound reflections from 1981 and his evocative 1977 poem offer invaluable insight into the mind of an artist who perceives creation as both a personal necessity and a cosmic duty. Grably’s "atom" analogy further elucidates his views on the dual potential of art to either regress or advance. Grably’s words invite us to reconsider the traditional narratives of artistic inspiration, urging us to recognise the depth of emotion and existential inquiry that underpins true artistic expression.

As we continue to rediscover and re-evaluate Grably’s contributions, we must honour the intensity and authenticity that define his work, ensuring that his legacy is appreciated for its profound impact on our understanding of the human condition. Grably's writings collectively compose a symphony that reveals the intricate interplay of identity, creation, and existential exploration. Through the vivid imagery of his poem, the raw introspection of his personal narrative, and the philosophical depth of his analogies, Grably illuminates the perpetual dance between the tangible and the transcendent. Grably articulates a vision of art as a crucible for both the disintegration and the reformation of self, where the artist's soul is continually reshaped by the collisions of internal and external forces. Appreciated in this manner, Grably's art becomes not only a medium of expression but a vessel for experiencing and understanding the essence of existence, mirroring the atomic structure that underpins all matter. Grably’s work stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to confront the deepest facets of human consciousness, challenge the limitations of perception, and ultimately, to forge new pathways in the ever-evolving landscape of creative thought.

Taking into account Grably's profound written insights and the evocative power of his visual art, his oeuvre transcends mere artistic endeavour to become a profound exploration of human existence and cosmic interconnectedness. Grably’s poetry and other writings reveal a mind that perceives creation as a deeply personal yet universally significant act, mirroring the atomic foundations of all matter. Through his dynamic brushstrokes, vivid colours, and intense emotional landscapes, Grably’s work continually challenges and expands the boundaries of perception and reality. His ability to navigate and articulate the dualities of life, creation and destruction, self and other, dream and reality, imbues his art with a transformative quality that resonates on a fundamental, almost elemental level. In every piece, Grably invites viewers and readers alike to engage in a dialogue with the very essence of being, positioning his work not only as an artistic milestone but as a beacon of intellectual and emotional depth that redefines our understanding of art's role in capturing the human spirit. 

Art, at its very core, is meant to provoke thought, evoke emotions, and challenge perceptions. Grably's intricate interplay of visual and literary elements offers a rich tapestry of existential exploration, reflecting the complexities of the human experience. While his themes may seem abstract or overwhelming at first glance, they invite viewers to delve beyond the surface and confront the raw and often uncomfortable truths of existence. In a world where superficiality often prevails, Grably's work dares to question, to explore, and to illuminate the profound depths of our inner lives. Dismissing Grably outright may mean missing out on a transformative journey that art is uniquely positioned to provide. It is perfectly understandable to question whether any single artist stands out in a sea of creativity, especially in an era bustling with artistic innovation. However, Grably's work distinguishes itself through its unique synthesis of visual and literary expression, coupled with profound philosophical inquiry. While many artists explore the human condition, Grably's integration of his intense personal reflections, vivid imagery, and the conceptual depth of his "atomic" analogy offers a distinctive lens through which we can view existential and artistic themes. 

Grably's contemporaries each brought their own remarkable contributions to the art world, but what sets Grably apart is his holistic approach to creation. Grably’s works are not simply visual spectacles but are also intellectual and emotional provocations that engage the viewer on multiple levels. Grably's ability to convey the turmoil and transcendence of the human spirit through both his writings and his artworks creates a multifaceted body of work that challenges and enriches our understanding of art's potential. This synergy of mediums, combined with Grably’s fearless exploration of identity and existence, positions him as a singular voice in the artistic landscape of his time. The skepticism of academia and art critics, while understandable, can sometimes blind them to the transformative power of overlooked artists like Ehud Grably. Grably's work, though not widely recognised as yet, challenges conventional narratives and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, offering fresh perspectives that are crucial for the evolution of art history. Grably's fusion of visual art and his profound literary reflections sets him apart from many of his contemporaries. Grably’s ability to weave intense personal narratives with vibrant, evocative imagery provides a multidimensional experience that can profoundly impact viewers and readers. This unique blend offers new avenues for scholarly exploration and critical analysis, enriching the broader discourse on art. The re-evaluation of under-appreciated artists is a vital part of understanding the full scope of art history. Grably's work, rooted in the existential and philosophical turmoil of his era, provides valuable insights into the human condition and the cultural context of the late twentieth century. Recognising Grably’s contributions helps to create a more inclusive and comprehensive narrative of art history.

Grably's “atom” analogy and his introspective writings reveal a sophisticated understanding of the creative process. Grably’s emphasis on fundamental elements and the dual potential of artistic paths, constructive and destructive, offers a compelling framework for understanding the evolution of modern art. This innovative approach can inspire contemporary artists and thinkers, pushing the boundaries of how we conceptualise and create art. For prestigious galleries and auction houses, discovering and promoting overlooked talent can be both culturally significant and financially rewarding. Grably's work, with its unique blend of emotional depth and intellectual rigour, has the potential to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts seeking something truly original. The story of Grably’s rediscovery and the re-evaluation of his artworks, after three decades of obscurity, adds an element of intrigue and value, making his works attractive investments. Grably's exploration of identity, existence, and the human spirit resonates on a universal level. Grably’s art invites viewers to engage deeply with their own experiences and perceptions, fostering a richer, more reflective engagement with his art. By bringing Grably into the spotlight, academia and the art world have the opportunity to broaden their cultural horizons and embrace the transformative potential of diverse artistic voices. In a world where many voices go unheard, recognising and celebrating the posthumous brilliance of artists like Ehud Grably enriches our collective cultural heritage. It challenges established artistic norms, provokes deeper thought, and ultimately, expands our overall understanding of what art is truly capable of achieving.

Schulman, M & Various AI GPTs

SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY

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