Current mood:
I’m not feeling terribly inspired today. The last several weeks have been so intense and stressful that even though a burden has been lifted I think I’m feeling a bit of the comedown. Even in a normal year this is a blah time for many people. It’s gray and gloomy out there. The days are slightly longer (yay!), but still pretty short. The weather isn’t conducive to being outside very long. It’s cold and damp, but not cold enough to snow. It’s a bit grim.
I looked at this little piece of paper that I’d tested some watercolors on, and saw a frumpy creature. I suspect this little fella represents a lot of us right now.
There really isn’t anything exciting to tell you about today. The walks with the dog have been nice, but uneventful. Somebody was cleaning out their house. I didn’t look closely at the books in the bucket because my current policy is to avoid touching things when I’m out and about.
I’ve seen several banana peels lately. There may be a serial peel-dropper on the loose.
These cones were engaged in some sort of ritual. I tried not to stare.
I’m not going to try and force anything today. It’s time to take the dog out for his afternoon walk. Maybe I’ll see something of interest.
Then I’ll come home and do some art or read, and I’ll feel better.
RAWR!
Tidbits
Why yes, I did just buy myself a pair of Pink Monkeybirds. Longer sunny days are coming!
Magary: I tested the dumbest PPE of all time - the Rich Guy COVID Helmet
#the100DayProject - choose a creative project, then do it for 100 days in a row. It might sound daunting, but your project can be small. You might choose to sketch a face every day, paint a flower, or write an haiku. The great thing about this challenge is the type of project is totally up to you. I’m percolating a couple of ideas. Check out what others have done. Starts January 31st! But really, you can do this any time you want. Learn more.
Interactive 10-Gigapixel scan of Girl with a Pearl Earring - WOW!!! Check out the 3-D images. (via Kottke)
Making: Trying to fit little odds & ends in every day. I painted A LOT of these pieces that are just waiting to have ink added - they’re very handy to have ready when the mood strikes. It takes just a few minutes to do one (or more).
Reading: I took way too long to read the diminutive 93-page book called Moss by Klaus Modick. Interesting premise, but a dense writing that meant slow going. I think I read most of it while half asleep. Oh well. Now I’m on to something much better! Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World by Dr. Anu Taranath. We’re going to be hosting her for a virtual event at the library on April 1st. Exciting!
Art Zone
Art comes in many forms. We may first think of painting or drawing, but fiber arts shouldn’t be overlooked on the spectrum of creative endeavors.
It was impossible not to notice the beautiful outfits worn by the women at this week’s inauguration. The bold, monochromatic outfits were intentional and made a statement. I hadn’t watched the evening festivities, so missed Dr. Jill Biden’s beautiful outfit by designer Gabriela Hearst. I’m not one to care much about fashion, but I do have an appreciation for fine embroidery - and the botanical theme drew me in.
The message of Unity is the main inspiration for the creation of the Ensemble. Unity makes strength and it is needed for the road ahead. The blooming symbol to represent this message are the federal flowers from every state and territory of the United States of America.
Each flower took approximately two-four hours to embroider. Careful placements and color selections were carefully studied for weeks. Inside of the coat, representing the lifelong calling and service of Dr. Biden as an educator is a hand embroidery on the lining with a quote from Founding Father Benjamin Franklin
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
To see more photos including closeups of the dress and the construction process, visit this Instagram post. Thanks to Kim Werker for sharing this article in her last newsletter - otherwise I might have missed this altogether!
Songs of the Week
Oh! Both of these videos have lifted my mood considerably. First, a fine cover of a John Prine song. The video is hilarious, at least to me.
And HELLLLO Amy Taylor! I love you. This is the punk we all need right now.
Current Temperature: 40.3 F (4.6 C)
Current Humidity: 99%
Wind (max gust): 8.1 mph
Precipitation: 0.19 in
Love your little creature. A mope-ossum?
That review of the covid helmet had me busting my gut! And I LOVED the John Prine cover...the Getty Images overlay, lol! I may do the 100 art challenge. I know I'll love seeing your daily creations - I'm loving your little paint and ink studies. Tres bien!