It was a gorgeous day outside, and although I have papers to write and books to read, I decided to go for a very long walk, drink way too much coffee and eat a huge frozen yogurt sundae. I also bought a few second hand books and art magazines including the new edition of Hi Fructose, which I chose specifically for it's article on fibre artist Mandy Greer. In a recent exhibit at the Bellevue Art Museum outside Seattle, she displayed a new installation called 'Dare Alla Luce', which means to give birth in Italian, or more literally, to give to the light. It almost looks like a rain forest scene, draped with long hanging knit and beaded ropes, a pearl and diamond moon and black leather pelicans and crows. I am astounded at the intricacy of her work and the obvious care and dedication that she puts into every meticulous detail. Another installation titled 'A Small but Mighty Wandering Pearl' displays a white stag with pearl encrusted antlers surrounded by crocheted red yarn, thread and beads representing blood. A blood red chandelier hangs behind the animal's dying body. I think her work is the kind you would probably have to see to believe and I hope I get a chance to walk through her world some day.
I have finally started painting again, the sun is shining and I couldn't be happier. Today I came across some paintings by Stefan Thompson and had to smile. He is an Ottawa-born, environmentally sensitive artist who uses natural materials and objects in his work. His style is super charming, interesting and magical. Stefan is showing his work from April 2nd to April 26th at Studio 161/2 in Victoria BC. Check out his website below!!
Design Sponge is a fabulous website and I often check it out for updates and inspiration. It wasn't until recently that I noticed a videos section, including an amazing series called Design by the Book. Head writer Grace Bonney hosts the show and follows five artists as they create work inspired by what they find in the New York Public Library. It's exciting to see the range of ideas they come up with, and also a refreshing change from reality television.
I watched the classic film Le Ballon Rouge by Albert Lamorisse today. I own a copy of this book, but it is currently gathering dust in my mother's attic along with piles of my old paintings.
I have a new favourite website!! My brother sent me a link yesterday and I'm already addicted, (and distracted today in my English class). It's a website that allows anyone to share their favourite images they have come across online. If you register, it recommends images based on your personal taste. There is quite a variety; a living room made of post-it notes, vintage book covers, art work and gorgeous photographs.
I get a kick out of reading other people's lost mail for some reason, but I guess I'm not the only one. I came across this cute little letter on Found Magazine's website. I wish all little ones felt such love for school. There are sooo many sweet finds on this website so if you haven't already done so, you should check it out.
Montreal art collective, HVW8 collaborated on this amazing portrait of Barack Obama. The trio that consists of Gene Pendon, Dan Buller and Ty Gibney, were invited to participate in a show called 'Manifest Hope' at the Democratic Convention in Denver. The show included various forms of art work and was designed to raise funds for the Obama campaign. 
I loooove the film The Science of Sleep directed by Michel Gondry. I think I just might have to watch it again in the spirit of Valentine's Day (if there is such a thing)...
