Over the last few weeks, we have been making our way slowly to Cusco, the ancient Incan capital turned vibrant modern city of southern Peru. As we spend time here and in the Sacred Valley, I am continuously enamored by the vast brilliance of the land and the humble charm of the people. We have done the rounds of the most famous Incan ruins and, despite a few crowds of tourists, were thoroughly enchanted. It is amazing to view these structures that have survived (if only partially) for so long, but it is even more fascinating that we cannot fully grasp the ways in which they may have constructed these perfectly fitted stone walls. Whether it was pure long term perseverance or an unknown type of technology or tool, the magic has remained and we are left to puzzle and wonder over it. This kind of pondering
provides a great amount of inspiration for my own practice because it gives me perspective and a reminder of what humans are capable of. I have also continued to be enthralled by the species of plant life that inhabit these high mountain areas. Coming from the mountains of Colorado, where we experience some very comparable temperatures and altitudes, it is compelling to realize that there can be such different eco systems in these similar climates. One of the more unusual categories I have come across more and more are epiphytes. This type of plant sustains itself by growing (relatively harmlessly) on another plant or object, deriving its nutrients from air, rain, and sometimes debris. I continue to see a type of moss epiphyte growing on telephone wires (as depicted in the image) that creates a very visually and conceptually satisfying relationship to me. I don't know the reason this particular moss is attracted to electrical wire but the result is a beautiful co-existence.