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Introduction: The Traces That Shape Us

There are moments when life slows.
When the wind hushes just enough for us to hear something deeper—
not a voice, but a knowing.

You look down and see a footprint. Maybe your own. Maybe someone else’s.
A trace. A reminder. A gesture.

This blog post is a reflection on footprints—not only the ones we leave, but the ones we find. On the courage it takes to walk. The beauty of what passes. The power of being fully here. And the invitation to reconnect—with the world, with others, with yourself.

As summer reaches the Swedish coast, we will return to Tylösand— not only as artists, but as humans walking a shore that has witnessed thousands of silent stories.

This is a path worth pausing for.

Footprints as Acts of Courage

There is a certain kind of silence in taking a step that no one sees.

Courage, in its rawest form, is not about heroics. It is about presence. It’s about being there—with your doubts, your scars, your not-yet-answered questions—and moving anyway. Every footprint is a testament to motion. To a moment when you stood at the edge of uncertainty and chose not to retreat.

There is courage in leaving. In staying. In saying yes. And even more, in saying no.

Sometimes it takes all our strength just to lift a foot from the place we’ve grown stuck in. The first step out of grief. The first attempt to speak. The decision to try again—differently. These are not the moments the world celebrates, but they are the ones that shape us.

Courage is the muscle behind all meaningful change. It is the threshold energy that transforms reflection into action. In coaching, we often see this bravery in the quiet spaces—in the pause before truth is spoken, in the shaky laughter after insight arrives shares Institue of Coaching (links furhter below).

The famous Austrian Poet Rainer Maria Rilke (1875-1926), knew this courage. In his Letters to a Young Poet, he wrote:
“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart, and try to love the questions themselves.”

A footprint doesn’t need to be deep to be meaningful. It just needs to be yours. Laid down with presence. With willingness. With whatever strength you had in that moment.

Reflective prompt:

What is a small step you’ve already taken that was more courageous than you’ve allowed yourself to acknowledge?

What new beginning might be waiting quietly just beneath your feet?

Footprints as Reminders of Impermanence

The tide always comes.

We walk anyway.

Footprints in the sand carry an honest truth: nothing lasts. And in that fleetingness lies a quiet invitation—not to grasp more tightly, but to live more presently.

Impermanence is not a flaw in the design. It is the design.

From Zen teachings we are reminded that impermanence (mujo) is not a concept to understand, but a rhythm to embody. They teach that letting go is not detachment but participation in life’s ongoing renewal. “Emptiness is not nothingness—it is potential” as shared in the article Everything is connected from the Musubi Acadmey.  

Ephemeral rituals like Tibetan sand mandalas—labors of intricate beauty swept away moments after completion, reminding us that value lies in presence, not permanence, as shared in the article The dust that measures all our time in the Public Doamin Review.  

There is also wisdom in how nature itself erases and rewrites. Andy Goldsworthy’s ephemeral land art exists in communion with the elements, destined to vanish and yet fully alive in its vanishing.

There is also wisdom in how nature itself erases and rewrites. Andy Goldsworthy’s ephemeral land art exists in communion with the elements, destined to vanish and yet fully alive in its vanishing.

As Oliver Sacks wrote in his final essay:
“I cannot pretend I am without fear. But my predominant feeling is one of gratitude.”

Impermanence humbles us. But it also liberates. If everything is in motion, then we are allowed to begin again.

Reflective prompt:

What might you hold more gently—if you embraced the truth that it will change?

What beauty can only exist because it doesn’t last?

Footprints as Markers of Presence in a Distracted Age

In today’s world, we move quickly—too quickly to notice where we’ve been, or where we are. Yet footprints only form when we touch the ground. They only appear when we slow down enough for our presence to leave a trace.

To leave a footprint is to say: I was here. I was awake. I paid attention.

That might sound simple, but in an age of algorithmic noise, being present is radical. It requires us to claim our own pace in a world that urges speed. It requires choosing awareness over autopilot.

Attention is a capability—a trainable way of interacting with the world, with implications for wellbeing, creativity, and collective intelligence, as explored by Institute for the Future (IFTF) . 

The way we pay attention is the way we shape our lives.

The american author Annie Dillard, wrote:
“How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives”, as reflected in the Marginalian.  

A footprint is a record of embodied attention. It doesn’t ask for perfection. It just invites presence.

Reflective prompt:

What space in your life needs a footprint—not of busyness, but of presence?

How might you begin to practice noticing again?

Footprints as Calls to Reconnect

A footprint is never just yours. It’s always part of something larger.

It holds the echo of those who came before and makes space for those who follow. It touches not just sand, but memory, story, belonging.

In an age that often separates us—by screen, by pace, by fear—footprints remind us we are 

People have always moved. Journeys across land and sea mark hope, displacement, resilience, and search for meaning. Every step carries more than just weight—it carries history, longing, and possibility, as shared by the global coverage by The Atlantic.

The symbolic maps Carte de Tendre, a 17th-century allegorical map of human connection—imaginative tools for understanding our emotional geography, as highighted in the Public Doamin Review. 

In coaching, reconnection is often a return: to values, to purpose, to relationship. The Institute of Coaching points out that leaders and individuals need to remember they do not walk alone—and that to lead is to listen, to feel, to relate.

To walk with awareness is to reweave connection—to the shore, to community, to something sacred and shared.

Reflective prompt:

Who walks with you—even when they’re not beside you?

What would it mean to walk in deeper relationship—with the world, with others, with yourself?

Returning to the Shore: A Summer Invitation

Each summer, the shores of Tylösand invite us back—not just to walk, but to wonder.

In this year’s selective exhibition, Footprints in the Sand, we return to familiar artworks with unfamiliar eyes. The same works, yet not the same viewers. We are changed. You are changed. And the footprints we notice now may not be the ones we saw before.

Some footprints are barely visible.
Some we try to erase.
Others we didn’t know we were leaving at all.

This exhibition is a pause—a soft space to notice.
To trace what remains. To imagine what comes next.

You are warmly invited to join us both Virtually and in Tylösand—
to reflect deeply, sit quitely, walk slowly, and let the artworks meet you where you are.

Because the footprints we leave are not just impressions.
They are invitations.

An Art Exhibition – Footprints in the sand at Transient Tylösand’s

 Virtual Art Exhibition Transient Tylösand / Virtuell utställning Transient Tylösand
(click on the picture below )

The art exhibition includes a song about Tylösand.

The dates for the physical art exhibition in Tylösand will be announced shortly. Read more about when via this link.

Further Reading & Inspiration:

• Institute of Coaching – On courage and relational leadership
• Letters to a Young Poet, by Rainer Maria Rilke.
• Musubi Academy – On impermanence and Everything is Connected. 
• Public Domain Review – On The dust that measures all our times and Maps of Love, Coutship and Matrimony
• My predominant reeling is one of gratitude by Oliver Sacks
• Andy Goldsworthy’s ephemeral land art 
• The Marginalian – On Annie Dillard, Rilke, and attention
• Institute for the Future (IFTF) – On Future of Attention Economy
• The Atlantic – On human migration, memory, and belonging and The praise of Journeys

Read the previous related Blogpost With Footprints in the Sand

About Novisali 

Novisali, (alias Liselotte Engstam), is besides her roles as professional board member and advisor, a multi-media artist, with a curious, explorative mind and an ambition to learn and extend art experiences to current and new audiences using both traditional and new digital mediums. More information and exhibitions can be found via Novisali.com

This blog post was is also shared at the blog of www.liselotteengstam.com, with the artist name Novisali.

The post Footprints We Leave, Footprints We Find first appeared on Novisali.

In its early days, Tylösand was a rugged and remote land, with a hidden cove known as Tjuvahålan, a sanctuary for pirates and smugglers. By 1870, a customs station and lighthouse were erected, adding a touch of mystery and adventure to the landscape.

As the 20th century dawned, the allure of the sea began to draw people to Tylösand. The early 1900s saw the rise of sea bathing, and by 1913, plans were underway to transform Tylösand into a seaside resort. By 1915, a charming inn welcomed guests, offering a cozy retreat amidst breathtaking scenery. The new Tylöhus hotel opened in 1931, solidifying Tylösand’s reputation as a premier destination for relaxation and joy.

The 1920s brought tent camping and simple beach cabins, creating a vibrant community spirit evolving into Tyludden. A city plan in 1929 sparked a construction boom, turning Tylösand into a lively, creative hub. Golf enthusiasts flocked to the 18-hole course completed in 1938, and St. Olof’s Chapel, moved to Tylösand in 1950, became a beloved landmark, inspiring contemplation and creativity.

The lifeguard station, established in 1960, became renowned for its lifesaving school, embodying the spirit of safety and community. Today, Tylösand’s seven-kilometer sandy beach is a beacon of beauty, earning the Blue Flag award in 1995.

The enchanting beauty and rich history of Tylösand have inspired countless artists and dreamers. Novisali’s latest art exhibition, “Transient Tylösand,” brings to life the magic and serenity of this special place, capturing the transient and timeless essence of this coastal paradise and inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its storied past and vibrant present.

Tylösand, with its enduring charm, is more than just a destination; it’s a canvas for creativity, a sanctuary for relaxation, and a source of endless joy. Here, memories are made, relationships are built, and dreams are realized, as the captivating spirit of Tylösand continues to inspire and enchant all who visit. The vibrance of Tylösand’s community, the creativity it inspires, and the deep relationships formed here all contribute to the unique allure of this magical place.

Transient Tylösand: Echoes of Connection, Color, and Creativity 

Tylösand brings people together to celebrate its rich history, natural beauty, and communal spirit. This virtual exhibition Transient Tylösand features a stunning collection of artworks that highlight the multifaceted nature of Tylösand, drawing parallels to the human experience and the timeless connections we share with nature and each other.

Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the art, find personal connections, and draw inspiration from the powerful metaphor of Tylösand as a place of transient beauty and enduring spirit. This exhibition encourages reflection on our relationships, the vibrance of life, and the boundless creativity that Tylösand inspires.

Themes Explored in the Exhibition

– Relationships and Connection: The artworks explore the bonds formed in Tylösand, from historical ties to modern friendships, highlighting the importance of community and connection.

– Vibrance and Life: Celebrating the dynamic energy of Tylösand, the exhibition showcases its lively beach life, vibrant community events, and the natural beauty that makes it a beacon of joy and activity.

– Creativity and Inspiration: Tylösand’s history as a hub for artists and dreamers is depicted through various creative expressions, emphasizing the unending flow of inspiration that this coastal paradise provides.

Inspirational Meanings in Artworks

Many of the artworks in the exhibition are imbued with inspirational meanings, such as renewal, hope, and interconnectedness. Reflect on these themes as you explore the exhibition:

– Renewal: The cycle of life and rebirth, seeding new plants and ideas.
– Hope: The unwavering hope for the future, the ability to thrive in various environments.
– Interconnectedness: The web of life and relationships, interconnected ecosystems, and generations.

Through this virtual journey, Transient Tylosand by Novisali offers a heartfelt tribute to the timeless essence of Tylösand, capturing its spirit and the deep connections it fosters.

Personal Reflection and Art Guide

Experience the exhibition with the Novisali Art Guide as your guide. Gain deeper insights into the themes and uncover personal reflections as you engage with the artwork.

Explore, reflect, and be inspired by the transient beauty and enduring spirit of Tylösand through this unique virtual art exhibition.

Note: This AI-powered guide, built on ChatGPT by OpenAI, inspires personal reflection and action, set against a Novisali artwork. However, for critical decisions, users should always consult a professional or trusted advisor. The usage requires your own ChatGPT account (free).

Data Privacy Notice: Novisali and Digoshen does not track or store user data. By using the Novisali AI-based Guide, you take responsibility for your data choices. To opt out of AI training by OpenAI, disable “Improve the model for everyone” under “Data Controls” in ChatGPT’s settings or manage preferences via OpenAI’s privacy portal. OpenAI may retain conversations for up to 30 days for abuse monitoring before permanently deleting them.

About the Artist: Novisali (Liselotte Engstam)

Novisali, the multi-media artist behind the exhibition, brings a curious and explorative mind to her work, aiming to extend art experiences to both current and new audiences using traditional and digital mediums. The exhibition features a blend of watercolor paintings, digitally reimagined, digital drawing, and manipulation tools. Additionally, the music and poetry accompanying the exhibition are composed and generated by Novisali, enhancing the overall tone and atmosphere.

The Virtual Art Exhibition Transient Tylösand

More ways to enjoy Tylösand

Poem “Transient Tylösand”

Read the Poem “Transient Tylösand” below for a deeper poetic understanding of the themes explored;

Walk Bertil’s path and see the vistas grand,  
Where nature’s artistry unfolds with grace,  
From Tylön’s lighthouse, weathered, proud to stand,  
To Tylösand’s warm, inviting, bright embrace.

In Tylösand, where sands stretch far and wide,  
The beach invites with open arms, so grand,  
With dunes embracing, standing tall with pride,  
Where lifeguards watch, a safeguard on the land.

To north, the tranquil Niire-becken flows,  
A calmer spot where peace and nature meet,  
Where sand dunes rise, and gentle breezes blow,  
A perfect place to find your own retreat.

To south, the hidden gems of Tjuvahålan lie,  
With rocky cliffs and little beach so sweet,  
Where families gather ‘neath the azure sky,  
And snorkel trails reveal the ocean’s beat.

Tylösand, a name both near and far renowned,  
For Sweden’s best-loved beach it surely is,  
Where sunny days on golden sands abound,  
A blend of leisure, waves, and ocean’s kiss.

A place where past and present blend as one,  
Where each who visits leaves with heart aglow,  
In Tylösand, beneath the summer sun,  
Memories are made and cherished so.

Oh, Tylösand, where the ocean meets the sky,  
Where the sun and sand unite, and waves dance by,  
From Tjuvahålan to the lighthouse tall,  
Tylösand, we hear your call.

Tylösand inspired Music

Welcome to enjoy the playlists on Spotify about Tylösand, adding an auditory dimension to your virtual visit; 

Website about Tylösand

Find more information about Tylösand, more about its history, weather, webcams, activities and events, photos and videos 

About Novisali 

This blog post was originally shared at the blog of the blog of the Digoshen & Boards Impact Forum Chair and founder www.liselotteengstam.com, with the artist name Novisali and on the blog on Novisali.com .

Novisali, (alias Liselotte Engstam), is besides her roles as professional board member, advisor and coach, a multi-media artist, with a curious, explorative mind and an ambition to learn and extend art experiences to current and new audiences using both traditional and new digital mediums. More information and exhibitions can be found via Novisali.com

The post The Enchanting Tale of Transient Tylösand first appeared on Novisali.

Exploring the Soul of Seashells: A Reflection on Art, History, and Oceanic Mysteries

Seashells are more than just the remnants of marine creatures; they are historical artifacts, mediums of economic trade, and artistic muses. From ancient currency to symbolic adornments, seashells have woven their way into the very fabric of human civilization and continue to tell tales of ecological and cultural significance.

Historical Significance and Economic Roles

Before coins clinked in pockets, seashells, particularly cowrie shells, served as currency across various continents including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Their durability and rarity made them ideal for transactions, embodying value in their beauty and scarcity. This natural form of currency highlights a universal human tendency to attribute value to nature’s artworks.

Artistic and Spiritual Expressions

Seashells have also been integral to human expression, used in jewelry and as decorative elements in sacred spaces and everyday objects. The nautilus shell, for instance, exemplifies the Fibonacci sequence, a symbol of perfection in chaos, influencing both artistic visions and scientific studies.

The Environmental and Archaeological Lens

Seashells contribute to marine biodiversity; their very structure offers refuge to marine life and, upon the creatures’ death, contributes to the oceanic ecosystems as part of the seabed. Scientists study these shells to gauge the health of our oceans and to track historical climate patterns, making them crucial to understanding both past and present environmental conditions.

Innovation in Creative and Engineering Collaboration

The paradigm of creation has shifted significantly in recent times. Historically, creatives would envision ideas that engineers would then bring to life. Today, engineers develop platforms and technologies that open new doors for creatives to reimagine the possible, allowing them to dream up and #innovate in unprecedented ways. This reversal enhances the reach of art, impacting millions and enabling personal exploration and identity through virtual experiences.

Seashell Soul Exhibition by Novisali

The “Seashell Soul” exhibition by multi-media artist Novisali is a contemporary exploration of seashells’ enduring allure. Through watercolors, digital art, and AI-generated music, paired with original music compositions, Novisali invites audiences to reflect on the interconnectedness of life, the spiritual symbolism of seashells, and their roles in promoting ideas such as protection, simplicity, and change.

Unfortunately the Virtual Art Exhibition host (Virtual Art Gallery) has run in to difficulties, we are exploring ways to get the Novisali Art Exhibitions shared at another venue. We understand the inconvenience, please bare with us.

To the Seashell Soul Exhibition

Personal Reflection and Art Guide

Experience the exhibition with the Novisali Art Guide as your guide. Gain deeper insights into the themes and uncover personal reflections as you engage with the artwork.

Note: This AI-powered guide, built on ChatGPT by OpenAI, inspires personal reflection and action, set against a Novisali artwork. However, for critical decisions, users should always consult a professional or trusted advisor. The usage requires your own ChatGPT account (free).

Data Privacy Notice: Novisali and Digoshen does not track or store user data. By using the Novisali AI-based Guide, you take responsibility for your data choices. To opt out of AI training by OpenAI, disable “Improve the model for everyone” under “Data Controls” in ChatGPT’s settings or manage preferences via OpenAI’s privacy portal. OpenAI may retain conversations for up to 30 days for abuse monitoring before permanently deleting them.

Novisali (Liselotte Engstam) the multi-media artist behind the exhibition, brings curious and explorative mind to her work, aiming to extend the art experiences.

Exploring Future Actions

In what ways can we leverage these innovations to inspire actions for a better future? This question invites us to consider how the integration of technology and art can continue to evolve, prompting further discussion and action toward environmental and social betterment.

For further inspiration, watch this related video: 

Poetic Echoes and Educational Outreach

Complementing the visual art, Novisali’s “Seashell Soul Poem” resonates with the rhythmic ebb and flow of oceanic life, encapsulating the spiritual and existential reflections seashells inspire. 

For those interested in a deeper understanding, recommended readings offer insightful perspectives on marine life and environmental consciousness; 

*The Sound of the Sea by Cynthia Barnett, 
*Seashell Therapy by George Toth, 
*The Blue Wonder by Frauke Bagusche, and 
*Breaking Boundaries by Rockström & Gaffney 

offer insightful perspectives on marine life and environmental consciousness.

Sensory Experience 

The exhibition not only showcases the beauty and utility of seashells but also encourages community engagement through resources like Spotify playlists themed around Swedish summers, providing a holistic sensory experience. 

You can explore these through the following links:

Swedish Summer (in English) 

Svensk Sommar (in Swedish) 

In Summary 

In essence, “Seashell Soul” is more than an exhibition; it is a journey through time, art, and the deep, mysterious waters of our planet, revealing how deeply interconnected our lives are with the seemingly simple seashell. Whether it inspires thoughts of protection, prosperity, or change, each shell has a story, a lesson, and a beauty uniquely its own, inviting us all to listen closely and learn.

About Novisali 

Novisali, (alias Liselotte Engstam), is besides her roles as professional board member, advisor and coach, a multi-media artist, with a curious, explorative mind and an ambition to learn and extend art experiences to current and new audiences using both traditional and new digital mediums. More information and exhibitions can be found via Novisali.com.

For additional insights by Novisali, you can find more at her personal website at www.liselotteengstam.com, and where she is the Founder and Chair; Digoshen and Boards Impact Forum.

The post Exploring the Soul of the Seashells first appeared on Novisali.