Christi Bonds, Artist
Cosmic Threads at Metro Gallery
The development of this series of art quilts represents a return to the visually creative world that was my life until the early 1980's. At that time I began training as a physician, first as a family practitioner, then as an acupuncturist. Along the way I spent several years as Medical Director of Native American clinics in the Yosemite
The development of this series of art quilts represents a return to the visually creative world that was my life until the early 1980's. At that time I began training as a physician, first as a family practitioner, then as an acupuncturist. Along the way I spent several years as Medical Director of Native American clinics in the Yosemite area of California, and was given the gift of interaction with several Miwuk medicine men/women, personally experiencing some of their healing ceremonies. As a result, many Native American concepts of healing are interwoven into my work around Chinese medicine.
Ghost Medicine at Sturm Gallery
How far back in time does the concept of healing and illness go? Who or what causes disease, and how does the sick person get well? Do these ancient therapeutic ideas and activities have any validity in our world today? These are some of the questions posed by physician artist Dr. Christi Bonds Garrett in the exhibit titled Ghost Medicine
How far back in time does the concept of healing and illness go? Who or what causes disease, and how does the sick person get well? Do these ancient therapeutic ideas and activities have any validity in our world today? These are some of the questions posed by physician artist Dr. Christi Bonds Garrett in the exhibit titled Ghost Medicine.
The Shang Empire (pre 1122 B.C.) was the first Chinese dynasty to leave evidence of therapeutic activity based on general concepts of illness and disease. Illness was caused by dead ancestors, who ruled the world but were dependent upon the living for provisions. One communicated with them through the use of tortoise shell oracle bones and made regular offerings to their altars.
Illness was also caused by evil Wind, which could be subdued only by the Wu-shamans, who used the 13 Ghost points in the original form of acupuncture. Finally, illness could also be intentionally caused by living persons in a ritual known as Ku (worm spirit).
Nevada Arts Council Grant
Nevada Arts Council Grant
Early in my career as an artist, I was awarded a grant from the Nevada Arts Council to complete a series of illustrations of the Birds of Prey of Nevada. This was a fabulous project: it combined field research - meeting with various experts on raptors who also allowed me to photograph their birds - and taking the rich experiences back to
Early in my career as an artist, I was awarded a grant from the Nevada Arts Council to complete a series of illustrations of the Birds of Prey of Nevada. This was a fabulous project: it combined field research - meeting with various experts on raptors who also allowed me to photograph their birds - and taking the rich experiences back to the studio to create art. The exhibit traveled around the state for display and education of the public.
Flower Essences
Flower essences are a gentle branch of energy medicine whose healing vibrations reverberate throughout the body and mind. The flowers and plants are a favorite subject for my fiber art.
Medical Illustrations
As my illustrative work expanded into the world of medicine, I became ever more interested in the science of medicine itself. With lots of help and encouragement from physician clients, I eventually applied to medical school, and the adventures in my life truly began!
Birth Series
Cowboys, Clowns & Rodeo
"Reno illustrator Christi Bonds works on one of her drawings in a unique series illustrating childbirth themes. These drawings will be on permanent display in the Newborn Nursery and Post-Partum Units. Bonds' work has been in a number of displays and exhibits throughout northern Nevada and has won numerous graphic awards. She also has wri
"Reno illustrator Christi Bonds works on one of her drawings in a unique series illustrating childbirth themes. These drawings will be on permanent display in the Newborn Nursery and Post-Partum Units. Bonds' work has been in a number of displays and exhibits throughout northern Nevada and has won numerous graphic awards. She also has written a children's book, and her artwork has been published in several newspapers and magazines."
Cowboys, Clowns & Rodeo
Cowboys, Clowns & Rodeo
I worked in advertising for many years and spent several of them in the midst of the Country Western world of the Shy Clown Casino. Besides creating a sophisticated brand of graphic art for their many newspaper and billboard ads, I drew the C&W Entertainers on an almost weekly basis. This was one of the most interesting jobs I ever had - lots of exciting rodeo energy!
Entertainers & Famous People
One of my favorite subjects has also been people. Because of living in an entertainment-focused city, there was ample opportunity to turn my attention to the talented entertainers in our midst. My commissions were done for the Entertainment Guide, casinos, the University, entertainers themselves and more!
'Just Quilts'
And sometimes I like to 'just quilt.' Often i'm thinking of a dear friend or family member and creating a comfort quilt to be loved and worn out with use.