Viriditas: the green soul-force in cosmos and humanity, by David Roef Nieuwejaers (E)

The twelfth-century mystic Hildegard of Bingen speaks in her writings of viriditas: the green, creative soul-force that flows through both human beings and the earth. For her, “green” was the sign of divine presence in all that grows, blossoms, and heals. Through her richly symbolic miniatures and artistic visions, we discover how the human being, as a microcosm, may receive this power of growth — while being rooted in the earth and at the same time opened toward the divine light.

As the images unfold, we explore how this centuries-old insight is strikingly relevant today. What does it mean to reconnect with that life-force — within our body, within our soul, and within the earth itself? And how might viriditas inspire inner renewal in a time of ecological and spiritual desolation? This lecture invites us not only to listen, but also to see — and perhaps even to experience something of that “green vitality” once again.

The lecture takes place in dialogue with the exhibition ART, NATURE & SCENT, presented at La Rivelaine from 17–22 April 2026. Visitors are invited to experience the exhibition prior to the lecture.
Earlier the afternoon, the same lecture will be presented in French (13:30-15:00).

Curated by Aglaia Pnomareva of Pon Art Consulting, coorganized by Fleur Rossdale’s Direct Climate Cooling Initiative, the exhibition centres on the Woodland Sprite Series and the idea of Woodland Sanctuaries—intimate spaces of care, imagination, and renewal. La Rivelaine is delighted to receive the exhibition, recognising a noble proximity between the works presented and its commitment to creating an intimate place of solace and gentle restoration, where art, scent, and nature converge into a deeply immersive, contemplative experience.