Inspired by the paintings, the aM All story is also a 60th birthday ritual that follows a three-act journey through the phases of life:

  • Dependence

  • Independence

  • Interdependence

Each phase is represented by a scene:

  • The River

  • The Hill

  • The Field

Let’s look at the intent of each phase.

ACT ONE: The River

INTENT

  • Dependence

  • Numb yourself

  • Learn from others

 

ACT TWO: THE HILL

INTENT

  • Independence

  • Go your way

  • Act

 

ACT THREE: THE FIELD

INTENT

  • Be here now

  • Give back

  • Be free

aM All was written, painted, and enacted by Howell Burnell. The ritual was photographed by Rebecca George in the Shenandoah mountains. For more art, please visit howellburnell.com.