Ozone Falls, Earth, Air and Water Come Together in a Constructed Landscape
Ozone Fals Constructed Landscape
Three weeks ago, I visited Ozone Falls on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee. It was a magical place and also the site of my first date with someone I have connected deeply with. We walked all around the state natural area, clambering over rocks with our two dogs and taking in all the vistas. I did not know that Elena Dorfman’s second session of the constructed landscape class would be offered soon afterwards. I was just appreciating the waterfall, boulders, roots, and greenery that abounded in this area that seemed so full of life. The whole natural area, and not just the waterfall, called to me. My friend and I sat on a rock in silence for quite awhile taking everything in, which was a good sign for things to come. Until now, Takoda has been the only one with the patience to sit with me as I connect and immerse myself in the natural world. This image is a composite of ten different views of the area, and when I look at it I feel it expresses in one image how integrated we felt with our surroundings and each other, even though we had no idea what direction things would or will go. Sometimes just being open to what might be possible is enough.
Ozone Falls Mid View
The waterfall seemed to descend to the pool below like tresses of silver hair. I am older now and so is my friend and the possibility of finding anyone at this stage of our lives who is accepting of each other’s foibles, less than perfect physical state, and other peccadilloes is so extraordinary, To appreciate each other in this moment for who we are now rather than wishing to be a quarter of a century or more younger or anything else is so refreshing. This level of acceptance will enable us to go forward celebrating each other for the experiences we have had that made us who we are today.
Water and Stone, The Elements Unite
A contrast in textures, the crisp edges of stone and the fluidity of water were breathtaking. When frozen in the frame, these elements became closer rather than more dissimilar. Beneath all differences there are always commonalities. The water here was so fresh and flowed so freely. When I returned home, I read up on the area and learned that the name Ozone Falls was bestowed since the air quality in the town nearby was so high, possibly from the purity of the waterfall’s mists. I have always been drawn to water and have felt it provides a connection to who I am as well as being a sign of whether the environment is healthy or ill. When I am in the presence of clean, flowing water, I feel any psychological blocks or anxiety I may be experiencing vanish. Water is indeed the source of life on so many levels.
The area around the falls was so picturesque that this location was chosen to film scenes for Rudyard Kipling’s Junglebook. But it was not just in recent times that this area has been appreciated. In the 19th century migrants crossing the Cumberland Plateau on their way to Nashville wrote in journals about the 110 foot waterfall and the gorgeous gorge it created. A remnant old growth mixed mesophytic forest community still remains near the plunge pool. This was indeed the site for new beginnings. I felt immersed in a biodiverse community filled with so much life, and it reminded me that when we accept diversity in humanity we end up with a similarly rich community. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation maintains this area, and I was so grateful to learn they protect and care for it. Such places feed the soul and allow people to recognize what matters, clean air and clean water.