Listen (To Mother Nature)

A concrete throne decorated in colorful mosaic tiles and nature themes that sits outside the Nature Center at Highbanks Metro Parks.

The artist, Christina Grote, wrote of the piece,
"I originally conceived this throne as part of a larger project – a garden designed to provide a place that allow people to be present to the beauty of nature and natural sound in a quiet, contemplative way, to feel a sense of oneness or connection with nature and the elements, free from ordinary distractions.
I have titled the throne “Listen” to encourage visitors to take time to sit quietly and reflect on the beauty of nature and the joy of being alive. Being in a peaceful place, listening to the sounds of the natural world can bring us into a state of inner calm and a sense of connection with ourselves and the world around us. Those who truly feel this connection with nature treat it with love and care.
For children, “Listen” provides a playful focus, a place to sit for a moment and think about the earth as their mother and the trees and animals as their relatives. As the Native Americans say, everything is connected. Children can also be inspired by the throne to think about their place in nature and what their contribution might be to help the world.
I included birds on the piece purposefully as in ancient times people felt that birds are messengers from the unseen world to ours. The unseen world can include our own essential self, that part of us that is often drowned out by the cares and concerns of daily life.
The hummingbird on the back is a symbol of endurance and overcoming obstacles, as well as joy. In Native American culture, a hummingbird symbolizes timeless joy and the Nectar of Life. It is a symbol for accomplishing that which seems impossible. The hummingbird teaches us how to find the miracle of joyful living from our own life circumstances and harmony within ourselves, with others and with the earth."

Near the throne is a small plaque which reads,
“Listen
“Sit for a moment and think about the earth as your mother and the trees and animals as your relatives. You are a part of nature like the wind and the stars. As the Native Americans say, everything is connected. How can you help take care of the earth and make the world a better place for everyone?"