art + inspiration
Dear reader - what a rollercoaster we’re on! Good lord. I’m grateful for my ability to feel grateful right now, and for all the things that provide ballast. Aside from teaching and writing, I’ve been exercising a lot, which helps me sleep better. I’m also actively looking for bright spots — like the tidbits below. My hope is that they sparkle for you, too. Enjoy!
I love Lucille Clifton and her miraculous poetry. This article captures a lot of what was so special about her work.
The Best House Museums in Europe - and I want to visit every single one.
Yoshijiro Urushibaro, Camelias in a Vase, 1930s More cute men dancing in their underwear, please.
I love these videos from the Prix de Lausanne competition, featuring exceptional young dancers. This one is particularly stunning — the choreo! And his mastery of movement.
Two women race to save Persian Jewish music before it fades away.
Ever wondered about the largest dollhouse store in the world? Wonder no more! Here’s an IG feature as well.
“Earthset” from Artemis II, photo credit: NASA
Great account for soul music. Get movin’!
Just learning about the photography of Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou of Benin. Here’s an IG feature, too.
Beautiful history discovered: Lost Photos of the Chelsea Hotel.
Love this story from Time Out about the Mosaic Tile House in Venice, CA.
Lois Dodd, Magenta Touch-Me-Not, 2007 CBS News piece on Big Chief Demond of New Orleans and his dedication to making the traditional suits for Mardi Gras.
This poem by Charles Bukowski is so unlike him, and so lovely. It gave me a boost this week.
The Laughing Heart Charles Bukowski your life is your life don't let it be clubbed into dank submission. be on the watch. there are ways out. there is a light somewhere. it may not be much light but it beats the darkness. be on the watch. the gods will offer you chances. know them. take them. you can't beat death but you can beat death in life, sometimes. and the more often you learn to do it, the more light there will be. your life is your life. know it while you have it. you are marvelous the gods wait to delight in you.
Thanks for stopping by! Wishing you a weekend of joy and creativity. — Chris
