The "Web"

In 2025 when we talk about "The Web” most folks think of the internet, rather than any number of webs that exist in the natural world.  This “World-Wide Web” offers us instant access to information and a kind of two-dimensional connection that captivates and hypnotizes us, pulling us out of our bodies and presence with the environment. In the words of Christopher Marley - Visual Artist and creator of the “Exquisite Creatures” exhibit “I have done my share of talking about the dangers of our society careening into an increasingly digital world. The damaging effects of living in only two dimensions can easily be seen in both the macro and the micro, from social isolation to gaming addictions. Once we discover moving images on screens, all too often, the solid, substantial realm of (minerals) is forgotten in favor of flash. Five second clips and five word texts take the place of the observation, study, and contemplation of the timeless elements of our earth. We permit it at our peril. It