tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14012470398121031232024-02-18T18:31:31.397-08:00GingersnapFem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-66715207478747873342013-03-21T07:30:00.000-07:002013-03-21T08:41:27.517-07:00Art News To Muse<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JovC0Krda_UXzh08PR8D_pGUO1iZiytlkCM5ETE9gjNOhISIT0NdGFCrx0-lhomg6JKBvtRDEBsKJMTWaZcWp8KHjRA0cgPLHu9INIDgBZvB3tpsLP3dlXeja9Z3OrVVogN6MPQDng/s1600/To+Relax+Or+Not+To+Relax.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JovC0Krda_UXzh08PR8D_pGUO1iZiytlkCM5ETE9gjNOhISIT0NdGFCrx0-lhomg6JKBvtRDEBsKJMTWaZcWp8KHjRA0cgPLHu9INIDgBZvB3tpsLP3dlXeja9Z3OrVVogN6MPQDng/s320/To+Relax+Or+Not+To+Relax.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"To Relax or Not To Relax" part of SWAN at the Dayton Metro Library Gallery- February 17-March 30, 2013.</td></tr>
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It's been a long time, but there's a score of exciting news to report!!<br />
One of my drawings from the Roy Lichtenstein Appropriation Series, Soapy Hair Stories is being displayed at the Dayton Metro Library in the Support Women Artists Now (SWAN) Exhibit and the <a href="http://swandaydayton.blogspot.com/2013/02/swan-day-dayton-free-event-on-march.html" target="_blank">Big Event</a> that includes writers, performance artists, and poetry reading is March 30- International Woman's Day.<br />
I have recently accepted the cordial invitation to join the exciting feminist film/TV/media <a href="http://www.btchflcks.com/" target="_blank">Bitch Flicks</a> blog as a weekly contributing writer starting next month (whoo hoo! such a kudos). So expect Fridays to be put on reading blast of the lady centric point of view variety! ;)<br />
I'm really excited to also announce that there's another social media night at the Dayton Art Institute tomorrow from 5:30PM-8:00PM. The next upcoming blog post will summarize "Storm, Watershed, and Riverbank," photographs and paintings commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 1913 Dayton flood as well as shed highlights on newly constructed museum store and restaurant! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTu4BRTJJwpPpXsSeXBBrE8S-MMyvmy4YaKUv0BXsaeyJapM2kmi5hDSsNiXrYC8JfpY27uj-qDVXJkfbyd9bAw665f8eT-rje2pvuMLaYWNqKL6WE_P0w8SSzk8MAw-7JxfCAqyDyjA/s1600/dai_backstorm_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTu4BRTJJwpPpXsSeXBBrE8S-MMyvmy4YaKUv0BXsaeyJapM2kmi5hDSsNiXrYC8JfpY27uj-qDVXJkfbyd9bAw665f8eT-rje2pvuMLaYWNqKL6WE_P0w8SSzk8MAw-7JxfCAqyDyjA/s1600/dai_backstorm_web.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A storm painting by April Gornik at the Dayton Art Institute.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Afro Vegan Chick</a> is doing incredibly well. In fact, it was included in a little compiled list by Ms. Magazine on their article on Feminist Foodies. Read all the biographies from the ladies breaking the mold of food politics <a href="http://msmagazine.com/blog/2013/03/12/the-femisphere-foodies-and-food-politics/" target="_blank">here</a>. A friend suggested that my blog may turn into a glamorous cutesy recipe book with stories, anecdotes, drawings, food photography, and natural hair love, but alas everyone knows that The Yellow Trolley Chronicles has to be finished first. It's a baby that has been in my belly for way too long. One day it'll be completed. One day....<br />
Anywho, I must take in all the Dayton sights before the end and there is a lot to write about. Amazing art in the city (including two beautiful James Pate led murals at Belmont High School), my own personal investigations into figure design, and the other terrific challenges coming my way.<br />
The biggest change is the eventual fall move to Philadelphia to study at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, a prestigious institution that has graced one of my favorite painters- Henry Ossawa Tanner, the first African American student ever to attend. I have been accepted into the post baccalaureate program which is a 9 month intensive learning experience that builds a deeper, more enriched portfolio for the MFA degree which is my next step. So far, I have acquired a much appreciative $4,000 merit scholarship and continue to search for more grant monies seeing as PB is not necessarily as easy to reward as an undergraduate or graduate education. Still my excitement isn't tarnished and it's such a wonderful opportunity for artistic growth and nourishment in a great, bustling city!<br />
So yes, huge milestones are finally happening and I couldn't be any more thrilled right now. Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-30415112591627579552012-12-02T17:00:00.000-08:002012-12-02T17:00:30.574-08:00Suppport Handmade At Local And Fellow Etsy Shops<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1275.photobucket.com/albums/y441/Rubbishlove/handmadeholidaybutton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1275.photobucket.com/albums/y441/Rubbishlove/handmadeholidaybutton.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Support crafty handmakers by shopping local and on etsy.</td></tr>
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Hello there.<br />
Hoped that everyone had a marvelous, very stuffed Thanksgiving and kicked off the holiday season in a kind, thoughtful, nonviolent strategy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCO-d_MOmqhlYuFBOwUtWidB4LLwmTvGMnA3UFNiP5TowGyNNWk2DX6earJ2GAZHuc2pJRBo6mHIKQxKByLo5DSYh_hrZNxvuq_Q-IMZDyIFkEIxz7c42yvvyf4mN4jjQVVXq_i2MBSQ/s1600/CIMG7102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCO-d_MOmqhlYuFBOwUtWidB4LLwmTvGMnA3UFNiP5TowGyNNWk2DX6earJ2GAZHuc2pJRBo6mHIKQxKByLo5DSYh_hrZNxvuq_Q-IMZDyIFkEIxz7c42yvvyf4mN4jjQVVXq_i2MBSQ/s320/CIMG7102.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rendezvous. Watercolor on Arches.</td></tr>
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If you're like me, bidding time and playing the waiting game until the really perfect gift comes along- this masterful practice requires the virtue of devout patience. <br />
However, I'm not sitting at home avoiding the mall crowds or big name retailers such as Wal-Mart, Target, Kohl's, and T.J. Maxx. <br />
Nope.<br />
I have another plan cooking.<br />
<a href="http://rubbishlove22.blogspot.com/2012/11/why-shopping-handmade-effects-you-and.html" target="_blank">Why Shopping Handmade Effects You & Our Economy</a><br />
^ Shana of <a href="http://rubbishlove22.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Rubbish Love </a>wrote an inspiring little article about the importance of handmade shopping.<br />
This year and for every other holiday season after, I will be conducting most of my buying online and at local Dayton shops like Cachet G!, Peace On Fifth, and various thrift stores while also making gifts for family, friends, and my etsy shop.<br />
Handmade art just adds a more sentimental touch to a holiday gift.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFk2fOuPBUmRjtdvRoQadTrKI2h3N3XIe5OxjJFEoiAvUtLTr_SCddJ7idkWtNzQJrbFeN-duCJMVb_mQ3l-YkuN699myE9QzOTB70p3csp8nY-JPBLkz0B1bJOYl-do-N2k1dF34nQ/s1600/IMG5295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFk2fOuPBUmRjtdvRoQadTrKI2h3N3XIe5OxjJFEoiAvUtLTr_SCddJ7idkWtNzQJrbFeN-duCJMVb_mQ3l-YkuN699myE9QzOTB70p3csp8nY-JPBLkz0B1bJOYl-do-N2k1dF34nQ/s320/IMG5295.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">African Queen magnets- Prismacolor colored pencils on 4" oval shaped wood.</td></tr>
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I've been browsing soaps, shampoos, candles, and other present ideas that certain people would cherish because they're unique, one of a kind items that aren't mass produced. Independently crafted merchandise reasonably priced with that money going towards that creator's own pockets for not just sole profitable gain and not some humungous penny pinching corporation. These artisans make things that they personally love and put out their products because they know other people will adore them too.<br />
That is simply called sharing the wealth and fruit of their labor.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsZkw341bWsrmBk2_xejayULXP07BicGND6Rrlycjz0oEKitA3GRyVmGq5Y1YqqBfRpVzyWaK9WA6tyeTWdBscj0HlbPTYUg7b6M-Wug7rJF4Xa0dmbtGDbceH_VmMiP3n3DJY_DNKw/s1600/IMG4924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsZkw341bWsrmBk2_xejayULXP07BicGND6Rrlycjz0oEKitA3GRyVmGq5Y1YqqBfRpVzyWaK9WA6tyeTWdBscj0HlbPTYUg7b6M-Wug7rJF4Xa0dmbtGDbceH_VmMiP3n3DJY_DNKw/s320/IMG4924.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queen Lioness Prismacolor pencil drawing sold for $40.</td></tr>
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Speaking of which, my etsy shop will be hosting a sale soon. Once I finish adding more prints, paintings, and seasonal holiday cards, the details will be set in stone. Also there is now a link in my etsy shop for personal requests. Though I have a few animal portraits left on the roster, I have ample time to create other custom commissions, especially for those who would enjoy a lovely little glossy painting or drawing of a beloved pet pal or family member as a wrapped treasure.<br />
My motto for this joyous season- think indie, small, and remember what this is all about. I'm writing my list and checking it twice, and knowing which gifts would be quite nice. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-3276610593485566832012-11-15T02:52:00.001-08:002012-11-15T02:56:39.986-08:00Social Media Night At The Dayton Art Institute & Stephen Knapp's Lightpaintings Exhibit!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiTDuKgm14cgOm-3wS1wBKRhw1Y_lkQXZoAuhVrD4QPE0QFYYPDDbpqIbdIa8SWKB9groLX7AD5tyu3aSJIqnHikKcIqf9djF1wx9ms1q6vUORKntEX8_NSc6CPPnjZh0nIMHY5RUMoQ/s1600/CIMG6997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiTDuKgm14cgOm-3wS1wBKRhw1Y_lkQXZoAuhVrD4QPE0QFYYPDDbpqIbdIa8SWKB9groLX7AD5tyu3aSJIqnHikKcIqf9djF1wx9ms1q6vUORKntEX8_NSc6CPPnjZh0nIMHY5RUMoQ/s320/CIMG6997.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always a welcoming sight. </td></tr>
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On a lovely autumn evening, before setting forth on the Stoddard Avenue Pumpkin Glow two weeks ago, I was fortunate and most honored to be invited to another Social Media Night at the Dayton Art Institute celebrating the opening of Stephen Knapp's <i>Lightpaintings</i> exhibit.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0vdJOqzRYp0BCpsb1KWPd2JVboT-RwXIN3h9MqXtUKJiviS1Lxhcm8Y7Bbev6PYmLaOWGARsNDu7leIrca9kIYA7EpsRmtnJc7Hm-dymcAYWf1lMV4L70c_C1hX-l6dZqDNKNaenLg/s1600/CIMG6998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0vdJOqzRYp0BCpsb1KWPd2JVboT-RwXIN3h9MqXtUKJiviS1Lxhcm8Y7Bbev6PYmLaOWGARsNDu7leIrca9kIYA7EpsRmtnJc7Hm-dymcAYWf1lMV4L70c_C1hX-l6dZqDNKNaenLg/s320/CIMG6998.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stephen Knapp's Lightpaintings the highlighted exhibit featured at DAI until January 6, 2013.</td></tr>
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Very, very exciting things coming up at one of the most cherished art museums in Dayton history.<br />
By November 21, local artists can donate handcrafted ornaments to put on
the DAI tree located in the General Motors Rotunda Entrance that will
then be included in a special silent auction with proceeds benefiting
the amazing DAI Summer Art Camp Scholarship Program. Further details
here: <a href="http://www.daytonartinstitute.org/event/events-activities/special-events/decorate-dai-tree-artist-decorated-holiday-tree-silent-auctio" target="_blank">Decorate The DAI Tree</a>!<br />
Other big changes and wonderful surprises afoot include renovation of The Cafe featuring new menu items and The Museum Store merging together
into one beautiful cohesive gathering space opening in early December. It was quite impressive to get a sneak peek view of the construction- black and white elegance and brilliant orange-red interior that will likely draw more people into the up-to-date classy atmosphere meant to be enjoyed in an unhurried sense.<br />
At the intimate social media party, thoughtful gifts were raffled and everyone was awarded a special sentiment (I got an awesome lime green t-shirt proudly boasting "Art Changes Lives!") and Aimee Marcereau DeGalan, DAI's new curator whose background stems from American and British painting, made introduction, coquettishly implying about upcoming exhibitions, telling us all to, "stay tuned."<br />
Now onto Stephen Knapp's <i>Lightpaintings</i>.... <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1B_WDGNAdfIbAZuD8pnVSnsdiwSjmqgli_1Jc4_ekNYVr5epmym8P1iW8x6p6KVhCCgXzN-oUFHGbdutddH6XfidNvN4_m8XwB0m1wlDU-0-a5KGsUCf4M0aEnB0uHj-N7UjLwZWWFg/s1600/CIMG7006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1B_WDGNAdfIbAZuD8pnVSnsdiwSjmqgli_1Jc4_ekNYVr5epmym8P1iW8x6p6KVhCCgXzN-oUFHGbdutddH6XfidNvN4_m8XwB0m1wlDU-0-a5KGsUCf4M0aEnB0uHj-N7UjLwZWWFg/s320/CIMG7006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Shadow Musing</i> from 2005 greets us with its straight out of the rectangular, wide screen television format. With strong line direction and graphic black outline, the negative space is primarily filled by dark, engaging shadows that aren't truly absent of color as brilliant dominance of light comes forward. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQW9pZ0Ax1YjgfBC5st0oz13wIezmq2yhpOXjDXZFY9GNpi6Lq79ysRAgkm7k9LnSplp5SNTeqe0eqtzjHiwMvww5fJCrNadas50Ge4lcN8YsC6sGLn_5pKijYp-85qYJvdDOkRVaAmQ/s1600/CIMG7005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQW9pZ0Ax1YjgfBC5st0oz13wIezmq2yhpOXjDXZFY9GNpi6Lq79ysRAgkm7k9LnSplp5SNTeqe0eqtzjHiwMvww5fJCrNadas50Ge4lcN8YsC6sGLn_5pKijYp-85qYJvdDOkRVaAmQ/s320/CIMG7005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of <i>Shadow Musing</i>.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59eLUk2_mD20A7amc-Tq1oiBz-pHn7vPpx12mhC27XwnTHRtge11zgtMa4pGKypdvX_TaP6vgz6MOUPY27hClZqTC_YGUels5S91QAgZduKr4lgupI1b9_9SUNXIMkJCF4OZhnvSTvg/s1600/CIMG7009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59eLUk2_mD20A7amc-Tq1oiBz-pHn7vPpx12mhC27XwnTHRtge11zgtMa4pGKypdvX_TaP6vgz6MOUPY27hClZqTC_YGUels5S91QAgZduKr4lgupI1b9_9SUNXIMkJCF4OZhnvSTvg/s320/CIMG7009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An eye catching close up that captures bold intense color & movement of graphic line.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Lightpaintings are the intersection of painting, sculpture and
technology, exploring color, light and space and are a harbinger of the
future of painting."- mentioned in front page of Stephen Knapp's website.
<br />
So with that being said, my curiosity was piqued for good reason.<br />
Lightpaintings? A man painting using only light? What on earth.... <br />
"What is it like?" I had asked Eric Brockman, <span class="st">Marketing and Communications Manager of the Dayton Art Institute and one of the parties responsible for putting Dayton Art Institute's Social Media Event together.</span><br />
"There are no words to describe it," he replied. "You just have to see it!" <br />
He was completely right about that.<br />
Stephen Knapp's constructive, straight out of the box, Lightpaintings are the most intriguing artworks I've had the pleasure of viewing in a while. <br />
Part interactive sculpture. Part celebration of light.<br />
These nearly life sized "paintings" are more than holographic like images displayed on the wall.<br />
Taking light in crisp, sharp edged line formations and a special kind of hand cut glass, the lush spectrum of glorifying colors depicted in each carefully articulated installation piece invites viewers to analyze and come to their own personal conclusions as to what Knapp embodies in these mesmerizing compositions that play with the same elemental hierarchy that a painter does- realistic interaction of light and shadow topping that list.<br />
As an added treat, people can also engage in stealing the light's direction for the one sole light bulb hovering can be intentionally blocked, taking some or all color away. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxuwGznZWaDD8cSCsRFJ7jFtQaLZxCLcYPu_xMesDu3W5g_pu9ARRpM3VWQTKSu53sT87xef6hxe0V9AZJSCxVx5hiX6MqczdldTfFiSAzsl1zclWhfqc7AUmzdsPpbxr9vEUnyp8_g/s1600/CIMG7011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxuwGznZWaDD8cSCsRFJ7jFtQaLZxCLcYPu_xMesDu3W5g_pu9ARRpM3VWQTKSu53sT87xef6hxe0V9AZJSCxVx5hiX6MqczdldTfFiSAzsl1zclWhfqc7AUmzdsPpbxr9vEUnyp8_g/s320/CIMG7011.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Forward Green</i>, 2005 is spring season sophistication with curved elements and captivating golden orange and vivid green colors that joyously dance on the darkened wall.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilN8qfphk7fGPxsRIccaa7kNEpimwHNaPzF2CXguZft0Hx38KLPTrGWq_TdENH8wFXadiHK9EIek_qOcaAR-7ioToYKyWpvwR3NVvns75EFZ3unyZvbsQe4QnP3ygWbAnOskiv2V7MVw/s1600/CIMG7015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilN8qfphk7fGPxsRIccaa7kNEpimwHNaPzF2CXguZft0Hx38KLPTrGWq_TdENH8wFXadiHK9EIek_qOcaAR-7ioToYKyWpvwR3NVvns75EFZ3unyZvbsQe4QnP3ygWbAnOskiv2V7MVw/s320/CIMG7015.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side close up view of interactive <i>Forward Green</i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifls9OkCDlXZvoT2UTSnId8vgkf0xnEucjSTG324hE3qOhNxdfol39-OQkZRZm-GUm_6SwwbV2inL82foarc6Eq889Dk9zZ8PVYHAxezR-nhkFUtXhpAXL0Hju2hBxc2wtpE_EUXumww/s1600/CIMG7019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifls9OkCDlXZvoT2UTSnId8vgkf0xnEucjSTG324hE3qOhNxdfol39-OQkZRZm-GUm_6SwwbV2inL82foarc6Eq889Dk9zZ8PVYHAxezR-nhkFUtXhpAXL0Hju2hBxc2wtpE_EUXumww/s320/CIMG7019.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serenata, 2008 is even more eye catching. With delicious poppy candy color and chaotic prisms making diagonal criss crossing pattern, the brilliant scheme of this piece is absolutely phenomenal in all corners of view. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZxoBgg8ImIse9u7OAB3ueiJNk8hnDU40sOBXPCMwW8mWmEorq44_E4ZBpmFgZo-9x1sOZB_HpMPKSOg7U6mSl_z0H67AsRJtEUkL74SHgPVriolKvkEerzMPR9NEQZ_VqKCXET4ofA/s1600/CIMG7020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZxoBgg8ImIse9u7OAB3ueiJNk8hnDU40sOBXPCMwW8mWmEorq44_E4ZBpmFgZo-9x1sOZB_HpMPKSOg7U6mSl_z0H67AsRJtEUkL74SHgPVriolKvkEerzMPR9NEQZ_VqKCXET4ofA/s320/CIMG7020.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink, purple, turquoise, and yellow are just some of the colors working harmoniously together to create a dynamism that is irresistible enjoyment to the the naked eye.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqoWeG21nWCYOQyRSlboWxy_OYVvvuILQKskpw9_0CxIcET0G3GcUe7DEaIfhf-AaCcEdFBqpckyC3v3PCY2iNHaDd0N8kkpclqkihQ2uSQjj8nnp3_kK2hNtO2gjO16aSKy9QJg0ZEw/s1600/CIMG7024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqoWeG21nWCYOQyRSlboWxy_OYVvvuILQKskpw9_0CxIcET0G3GcUe7DEaIfhf-AaCcEdFBqpckyC3v3PCY2iNHaDd0N8kkpclqkihQ2uSQjj8nnp3_kK2hNtO2gjO16aSKy9QJg0ZEw/s320/CIMG7024.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close up of the spectacular glass structures in <i>Serenata</i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKqpRGO_BmDBK01V7hnb4fE1dHA11XnjAcKwZyvUkmY_DOq6SEQgL6KYGHtwSE9QE8966h2bDogmKdC2xk78gIPyQnYabJaDHjUSf77me5wfc0SgsE61Hc9rAKa2LjikTTO0vfU5nww/s1600/CIMG7025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKqpRGO_BmDBK01V7hnb4fE1dHA11XnjAcKwZyvUkmY_DOq6SEQgL6KYGHtwSE9QE8966h2bDogmKdC2xk78gIPyQnYabJaDHjUSf77me5wfc0SgsE61Hc9rAKa2LjikTTO0vfU5nww/s320/CIMG7025.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another close up of <i>Serenata</i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5bRUOoWylP0SVFtFkQ3Z7sYfq0JB0WmLqL72Bxzj5I3nGqgD7mxkjThYBEe2giQYYljXVUFf7aQ2RaRE1vOO8UwPUJ0wp2anWTngUxSpf8pPMwiriCM_fb4X0aHzC9QUv1BgE_Pghw/s1600/CIMG7026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5bRUOoWylP0SVFtFkQ3Z7sYfq0JB0WmLqL72Bxzj5I3nGqgD7mxkjThYBEe2giQYYljXVUFf7aQ2RaRE1vOO8UwPUJ0wp2anWTngUxSpf8pPMwiriCM_fb4X0aHzC9QUv1BgE_Pghw/s320/CIMG7026.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Introspection</i> from 2012 uses a melodic pastel palette that is much different than the others displayed in the gallery. A contrasting anomaly, the softness of this piece gives an alluring, tranquil sense of poignancy and hope as the light moves in infinite directions, making stark, vital shadows on the wall.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiNw2-PHXar7KorRmHeY-fKUV9lrp41WqLW7694zNRT4_w-c_gJES_xI7W67J6ltTlyntPImaKKRNvdFW_m-BCGc0DL5ASrzq4YOvRpfR3XXvEbgDITUsJ3j00fvfDAGTM56ZPuCgfKg/s1600/CIMG7027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiNw2-PHXar7KorRmHeY-fKUV9lrp41WqLW7694zNRT4_w-c_gJES_xI7W67J6ltTlyntPImaKKRNvdFW_m-BCGc0DL5ASrzq4YOvRpfR3XXvEbgDITUsJ3j00fvfDAGTM56ZPuCgfKg/s320/CIMG7027.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The close up shapes captured of <i>Introspection</i> are quite reminiscent of stylistically rendered winged insects floating into beguiling space. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL7gR6II8sQe7M3yIzfik0S89yFhHfsth5aMuKw_4qrn6uEIThN1ap2RVxokR-J3u5FjpiGdn07F4KkuuVgljPE1PRtWbWVfqGHyktRdjweBeNz4lJr36511vlDwPBKR9q0rQ43eHgg/s1600/CIMG7030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOL7gR6II8sQe7M3yIzfik0S89yFhHfsth5aMuKw_4qrn6uEIThN1ap2RVxokR-J3u5FjpiGdn07F4KkuuVgljPE1PRtWbWVfqGHyktRdjweBeNz4lJr36511vlDwPBKR9q0rQ43eHgg/s320/CIMG7030.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Into Morning</i> from 2007-2011 brings celebratory radiance, taking up a substantial amount of wall space as it livens up the atmosphere with bright, electrifying luminosity.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ijyVBifJNvb4Ar7yMjQGQdA3iaVT9S_omq_eq0SLDMh4bQ6mL1C5roqSo0YGvcaRasKVwGSYJFllOBlzeFx3bxaXvipKCkQhpzpe2WtxzVENDPjlwYgNCjBXRJi_guN_WL0kQy-Jsw/s1600/CIMG7031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ijyVBifJNvb4Ar7yMjQGQdA3iaVT9S_omq_eq0SLDMh4bQ6mL1C5roqSo0YGvcaRasKVwGSYJFllOBlzeFx3bxaXvipKCkQhpzpe2WtxzVENDPjlwYgNCjBXRJi_guN_WL0kQy-Jsw/s320/CIMG7031.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The close up of <i>Into Morning</i> illustrates Knapp's innovative way of weaving light fragments into an astonishing painting that is quite a three-dimensional masterpiece. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibORrUD5Tt7EN50ED3ps1IA61nuSb8qyvnIjRyxEM6xrVFil0K6w-yv4-puSciIASZy5Z0Bs337qAgyOwNJMjuP23LaW-GsyNUQr3SyB4srxZmLhM2ktwMkOTHtTe8D-R8AN72un7k7g/s1600/CIMG7032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibORrUD5Tt7EN50ED3ps1IA61nuSb8qyvnIjRyxEM6xrVFil0K6w-yv4-puSciIASZy5Z0Bs337qAgyOwNJMjuP23LaW-GsyNUQr3SyB4srxZmLhM2ktwMkOTHtTe8D-R8AN72un7k7g/s320/CIMG7032.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a taste of the grand scale of <i>Into Morning</i>, one of Knapp's larger works.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUc-Ib15_m4shh4k1f_E5zjNPtevzi97G16u7UA6ku4fiXQN9EeDb59Pa4z1Fy1xv_XNR8r4d0HoymY5g9sHlH0clJCCl4FL1_ncL4FShEtQP4gar40SSQNkuAPXQjJjPrwANDi7MAw/s1600/CIMG7034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUc-Ib15_m4shh4k1f_E5zjNPtevzi97G16u7UA6ku4fiXQN9EeDb59Pa4z1Fy1xv_XNR8r4d0HoymY5g9sHlH0clJCCl4FL1_ncL4FShEtQP4gar40SSQNkuAPXQjJjPrwANDi7MAw/s320/CIMG7034.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another astounding close up of <i>Into Morning</i>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcAB4adTrISaIMkiZdWYf8mx2GXFhsw1oJS_RImLH8WXIWPZbkAI-_tJZzws6yc06TMhAbyMYYR2zNrBaeGW76Cknf_gL9rj7IAS4wVjCcDuAqJco3-OjHMwPvg_nsLpivFtH8UpxVQ/s1600/CIMG7035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcAB4adTrISaIMkiZdWYf8mx2GXFhsw1oJS_RImLH8WXIWPZbkAI-_tJZzws6yc06TMhAbyMYYR2zNrBaeGW76Cknf_gL9rj7IAS4wVjCcDuAqJco3-OjHMwPvg_nsLpivFtH8UpxVQ/s320/CIMG7035.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Capriccio</i> from 2003 is another vivid splendor using an array of amazing color. The free flowing shapes almost circle the pink and red center, creating almost a rather intriguing abstract flower. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHuAvyMMJ5hM0nhjBxIbGTyfvViMpi5BlTqwddIqvIQQfQ3fC21agLSE28NhjoByeKfiuJE-qE6Rxzxt5OZM4xq_2dtaO6fAayTnfyUmCaDUXODR5HgXfBoE-ra1jKGFgV1q6WLqMnw/s1600/CIMG7036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHuAvyMMJ5hM0nhjBxIbGTyfvViMpi5BlTqwddIqvIQQfQ3fC21agLSE28NhjoByeKfiuJE-qE6Rxzxt5OZM4xq_2dtaO6fAayTnfyUmCaDUXODR5HgXfBoE-ra1jKGFgV1q6WLqMnw/s320/CIMG7036.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close up of <i>Capriccio</i> in all its fetching glory! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For further information about Stephen Knapp on the web visit: <a href="http://www.stephenknapp.com/" target="_blank">Stephen Knapp Official</a> & <a href="http://www.lightpaintings.com/" target="_blank">Lightpaintings.</a><br />
But most importantly, please check out his amazing sculptures at the Dayton Art Institute.<br />
Photographs and description alone cannot do the justice required to truly experience the majestic breadth of this beautifully crafted, interactive artwork. <br />
It's pure genius and refreshing fun that the whole family can enjoy.<br />
Connect with DAI to find out more about Lightpaintings and the exciting events coming up!<br />
<a href="http://www.daytonartinstitute.org/event/art/exhibitions/current-exhibitions/stephen-knapp-lightpaintings" target="_blank">Official Site</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/daytonartinstitute/info" target="_blank">Facebook</a><br />
<a href="http://www.twitter.com/daytonart" target="_blank">Twitter</a><br />
<br />
<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-72387553465968624022012-11-14T23:46:00.001-08:002012-11-14T23:53:46.562-08:0040 Years Of RTA Plus Awesome Prize Pack Equals Thank You!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUVBTdqHBvgTy8lIGLpaUviGJcxHX2TlRgqfLrF60TpxKyUhOxPo0267xPeokfTjuQIln0uluNYd70G1Rl73PxfA4UZ1Acwgx_k-DlEWurogtdtRoA-efMxADXEbMJCShidXLK34i1g/s1600/CIMG7035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUVBTdqHBvgTy8lIGLpaUviGJcxHX2TlRgqfLrF60TpxKyUhOxPo0267xPeokfTjuQIln0uluNYd70G1Rl73PxfA4UZ1Acwgx_k-DlEWurogtdtRoA-efMxADXEbMJCShidXLK34i1g/s320/CIMG7035.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was the queen of envy when "driving" & squeezing this awesome foam bus in drawing class today!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Just last week on RTA's coveted 40th anniversary date- November 6th, the fares were 40 cents all day long- a much needed treat for passengers. Now we're on day 9 of 40 Facts About RTA, a special contest running on Facebook and Twitter for RTA rider fans.<br />
Very excited to learn about this exciting promotion, I found these unveiled historic trivial bits quite interesting, especially considering that I have been a coveted bus fan (go trolley!) and have made some very kind driver friends over the years.<br />
So here are the 9 exciting facts so far:<br />
<br />
1.) The publicly-owned Miami Valley Regional
Transit Authority (MVRTA) formed in 1970 and was controlled by trustees
from Dayton, Oakwood and Kettering.<br />
<span class="userContent"></span><br />
2.) During prolonged negotiations in the early
1970s, City Transit agreed to sell its property to the Miami Valley
Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) for under $3 million.<br />
<span class="userContent"></span><br />
3.) On November 6, 1972 the Miami Valley Regional Transit Authority took over the operation of privately-operated City Transit. *<br />
<br />
<span class="userContent"></span>4.)<span class="userContent"> The first women drivers were hired by RTA in
1974. Joella Rooney and Mary Crowder began training as operators on
February 19 that year. </span><br />
<br />
5.) To afford the cost of providing expanded
service throughout the county, the Miami Valley Regional Transit
Authority passed a county retail sales tax in 1980 and began
negotiations with several small bus lines that had been providing
limited suburban service.<br />
<span class="userContent"></span><br />
6.) County-wide service began in 1980 and
eventually the original service to Dayton and Oakwood expanded to 21
suburban cities, villages, and townships, as well as Wright State
University and Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Greene County.<br />
<br />
<span class="userContent"></span>7.) RTA became one of the first transit properties
in the country to become fully compliant with the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements by installing wheelchair lifts on
all of our buses long before the required date.<br />
<span class="userContent"></span><br />
8.) In 1995, a new fleet of trolley buses, built
partly in the Czech Republic and partly in Baltimore, Maryland, arrived
in Dayton. <br />
<span class="userContent"></span><br />
9.) Dayton, Ohio’s RTA is noted for being one of
only five cities in the U.S., and the smallest city, to continue
offering electric-powered transit options in addition to diesel buses....<br />
<br />
Only 31 more days left and I cannot wait to read more. This is sooooooo amazing and fun! <br />
<span class="userContent"></span><br />
So I'm giving a big "THANK YOU!" to my pals at the RTA. After retweeting and Facebook sharing my first RTA fact (number #3 that is), I won this lovely prize pack- a treasure for one of the biggest bus devotees!<br />
Thank you! Thank you! Thannnnnk yoooou!!!!<br />
Much love to the drivers and other staff at the RTA for making such a dedicated commitment to regional transit, for steering those beautiful buses to go places all over beloved city. RTA has been an amazingly significant part of my life since childhood. :)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvL4wjik7T_Au7A-pJU5AZP2oksoTf-wJ2driD-xW5N8xW-E_E6s-GBsI2vvx8K92_pzAJ2LPo1YiZn1MPPaRACnjDtNVq-hB06jPidchBe4BIUHI6LXuydLop0amHX0M_WVu6hRuM2g/s1600/CIMG7032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvL4wjik7T_Au7A-pJU5AZP2oksoTf-wJ2driD-xW5N8xW-E_E6s-GBsI2vvx8K92_pzAJ2LPo1YiZn1MPPaRACnjDtNVq-hB06jPidchBe4BIUHI6LXuydLop0amHX0M_WVu6hRuM2g/s320/CIMG7032.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not only receiving a $25 Kroger Gift Card, but a mini route map, two
balloons, a thermos mug to hold my Starbucks hot chocolate, and a
coaster were also included. However, the best part inside of the lime plastic bag was the foam bus.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With sweet prizes just in time for the holiday season like gift cards and wonderful RTA treasures, best of luck to all those who enter. But sorry, I believe only residing Daytonians are eligible to win. <br />
One can still enjoy the infectious spirit and fruitful knowledge about the history of Dayton's public transportation.<br />
Follow the excitement with these RTA links and learn more about our regional transit system here: <br />
<a href="http://www.i-riderta.org/" target="_blank">RTA Offical Site</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/iriderta" target="_blank">RTA Facebook</a><br />
<a href="http://www.twitter.com/gdrta" target="_blank">RTA Twitter</a>Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-23368314086395364542012-11-01T00:08:00.000-07:002012-11-02T00:10:05.722-07:00Happy Belated Halloween & the Stoddard Avenue Pumpkin Glow Highlights<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yQPEulSfltflb4FIXYpEcAfSUrVvgDjXmE_QG-Cnzy-hMgEP9HTbtkjESD5F_DVnItp5w3ld7WRlC2PPM0Z5J2ovqQ8pKO6lrIpez_fy2RATMetUIQl0e0e8iVX-TvhYpZTxd7J0kA/s1600/CIMG7061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yQPEulSfltflb4FIXYpEcAfSUrVvgDjXmE_QG-Cnzy-hMgEP9HTbtkjESD5F_DVnItp5w3ld7WRlC2PPM0Z5J2ovqQ8pKO6lrIpez_fy2RATMetUIQl0e0e8iVX-TvhYpZTxd7J0kA/s320/CIMG7061.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">While ladies gave out leftover candy from their ghostly buckets, Batman & Joker also made surprise guest appearances amongst the crowded pumpkin spectacle, spreading further joy to delighted children and some adults. </td></tr>
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Happy November!<br />
Hope everyone has had a pleasant Halloween- partaking and enjoying the magnificent costumes as well as candy galore, especially the marked down sugary madness soon to be happening at every grocery store.<br />
Lord knows I cannot wait.... <br />
After a lovely evening at the Dayton Art Institute, I ventured right behind the museum for the traditional Stoddard Avenue Pumpkin Glow located atop of Grafton Hills, but since I foolishly forgot my memory card only a few pictures were taken of the splendidly carved pumpkins with their sweet cinnamon scented tea light candles wafting through the cool autumn evening.<br />
Every year, it gets more and more wonderful just to see the wide range of talent and knife chiseling precision. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfkYOrZLwhZfaovLGh8BL6jytd8hLZ5T2xlIzbimftnk1nXNClBeSGODCEAR8oLhCF7Ua4jTY3QrbwLLuB7V8_rzvXov5-NLs6PhOmzl9ra2lHI27M6aNO_Wl0b_Jktf-EiXqSagfLRQ/s1600/CIMG7043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfkYOrZLwhZfaovLGh8BL6jytd8hLZ5T2xlIzbimftnk1nXNClBeSGODCEAR8oLhCF7Ua4jTY3QrbwLLuB7V8_rzvXov5-NLs6PhOmzl9ra2lHI27M6aNO_Wl0b_Jktf-EiXqSagfLRQ/s320/CIMG7043.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lovely rose.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzMyN6gLTCDDS2bcM9k4pMrcADXeoEIIXmgtIYSjYowbGmrREezRCQVu1u0EX462rSFg-fGC_OwC2Q36j4nLwdHvqqC5SSdLJQvepSdT5kFusOAuXmxkT8UHhkIop92K3-5DArbhAQw/s1600/CIMG7046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzMyN6gLTCDDS2bcM9k4pMrcADXeoEIIXmgtIYSjYowbGmrREezRCQVu1u0EX462rSFg-fGC_OwC2Q36j4nLwdHvqqC5SSdLJQvepSdT5kFusOAuXmxkT8UHhkIop92K3-5DArbhAQw/s320/CIMG7046.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A werewolf or a fangy kitten?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqsgzpIH5S9TrLbvm0EUcLQ3pVgwGci_o5Qepo8aRjV_Oi1i7Q2A26al2jNdvv9z56whhEF8gsHUwSvqrfvFiMP4mjxS_GGEwj_35ZAg-dC69vB_SdqjFr9YOFwi1_fJrNCf9uAre-Q/s1600/CIMG7047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqsgzpIH5S9TrLbvm0EUcLQ3pVgwGci_o5Qepo8aRjV_Oi1i7Q2A26al2jNdvv9z56whhEF8gsHUwSvqrfvFiMP4mjxS_GGEwj_35ZAg-dC69vB_SdqjFr9YOFwi1_fJrNCf9uAre-Q/s320/CIMG7047.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bowling pins waiting for my gutter ball. Seriously. I'm terrible at the sport.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmfHq1Muvfl1oyhaM7rYguQ1zI-KknKUfncGs6S9kgJOAa8uf0k_tTxD8eI6qAN5AFbXLu2ybpykj6WGoeNhJ6pD7P-v2mrMNiB52w8GldwM1IhyzX-YS1QPhkZpve9SAknkH6R3tAQ/s1600/CIMG7048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmfHq1Muvfl1oyhaM7rYguQ1zI-KknKUfncGs6S9kgJOAa8uf0k_tTxD8eI6qAN5AFbXLu2ybpykj6WGoeNhJ6pD7P-v2mrMNiB52w8GldwM1IhyzX-YS1QPhkZpve9SAknkH6R3tAQ/s320/CIMG7048.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diamond, heart, spade, & clover playing card design! Yes!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbomXom1pC1c_gfeiWSWAhSSHCx-YgK9pWkUsWkH0ivlCLTe0dPkZX0P9QzLztAmvvZUCn-HOeDw6wg-d6bCZRuCYupE80-2teVfAdyBPPcfaoro6D9VFYw2xbiddOQ6I28JvMHI7VmA/s1600/CIMG7051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbomXom1pC1c_gfeiWSWAhSSHCx-YgK9pWkUsWkH0ivlCLTe0dPkZX0P9QzLztAmvvZUCn-HOeDw6wg-d6bCZRuCYupE80-2teVfAdyBPPcfaoro6D9VFYw2xbiddOQ6I28JvMHI7VmA/s320/CIMG7051.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fitness inspiration. I heard that Zumba is the cat's meow! Still haven't tried it yet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGmEtUhad7RJwPAJ1tS5NmCkGVQdbHJKtSiZam08pEUaTdNDE_WYOE9BYkiNm4CSghmIbDeZC1GXAE2jLLvlFiwuVnfV3tWBPtIvITsKicdAF0oXJbnSEaLHbAWyfeu7MueNQIAiH0A/s1600/CIMG7053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGmEtUhad7RJwPAJ1tS5NmCkGVQdbHJKtSiZam08pEUaTdNDE_WYOE9BYkiNm4CSghmIbDeZC1GXAE2jLLvlFiwuVnfV3tWBPtIvITsKicdAF0oXJbnSEaLHbAWyfeu7MueNQIAiH0A/s320/CIMG7053.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roman numerals.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvL2aONUNlqxjRHoL_GyCA78Bcn_siDWxkrvAIg1sDVaGOFKDnW80-bZ6JxBZ9KRCPVS4n0FMysCYo10i27jeQqaDN1qNH9TvIcP7lhd6nwPps2cL_V-Bg8MBe7Wti7FG9yD8M6vvRMQ/s1600/CIMG7054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvL2aONUNlqxjRHoL_GyCA78Bcn_siDWxkrvAIg1sDVaGOFKDnW80-bZ6JxBZ9KRCPVS4n0FMysCYo10i27jeQqaDN1qNH9TvIcP7lhd6nwPps2cL_V-Bg8MBe7Wti7FG9yD8M6vvRMQ/s320/CIMG7054.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hill view featuring all sorts of cartoon, comic book, and movie characters as well as the traditional carving.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilDiLz5S1zHiBXUV7npCXWcE-eQSE8lJqzEwaPS-UQs-DvNospH196wjkQX5yeg8xTaUEzSb9FAAnqDwTb3ikJUVpJ6nZTMiArUUNQdb2ecwpedX2CKldJDBQeWGPblt-fZfI_jowREA/s1600/CIMG7060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilDiLz5S1zHiBXUV7npCXWcE-eQSE8lJqzEwaPS-UQs-DvNospH196wjkQX5yeg8xTaUEzSb9FAAnqDwTb3ikJUVpJ6nZTMiArUUNQdb2ecwpedX2CKldJDBQeWGPblt-fZfI_jowREA/s320/CIMG7060.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eek! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IxvsEdsulZ4JLP95dBBXyY91wtFwaHlQ1YyW_VqlBMn_rlhO7lvVU36Kak-rrQ27gTsMhSlsQYdVtm15h-GXxeaR0wZ4l9sMzzX5lLZgOr0vTkva3FGgcKqbdUvcDpsoxtmcvRE-xA/s1600/CIMG7057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IxvsEdsulZ4JLP95dBBXyY91wtFwaHlQ1YyW_VqlBMn_rlhO7lvVU36Kak-rrQ27gTsMhSlsQYdVtm15h-GXxeaR0wZ4l9sMzzX5lLZgOr0vTkva3FGgcKqbdUvcDpsoxtmcvRE-xA/s320/CIMG7057.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful lion!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekOflG7PMdFMgYnncqc2DEiR0xCuw9Gzqi7-vt13h4BnvOEuRvY-jAmTc16hxcC6rAcS28mn8r1_kVseENnOWBEWAgerR1Y6mpC0HJdrf5qlYKEh6iZRVbl29qYextUUgy_iv4DtTuQ/s1600/CIMG7058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekOflG7PMdFMgYnncqc2DEiR0xCuw9Gzqi7-vt13h4BnvOEuRvY-jAmTc16hxcC6rAcS28mn8r1_kVseENnOWBEWAgerR1Y6mpC0HJdrf5qlYKEh6iZRVbl29qYextUUgy_iv4DtTuQ/s320/CIMG7058.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And of course the crazy Mad honcho! Pretty well done. :D</td></tr>
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<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-81821284852869947422012-10-23T22:10:00.001-07:002012-10-23T22:10:27.666-07:00President Barack Obama & Vice President Joe Biden's Dayton Visit<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfP_6Oz7nXiIpmQcj1QAg7-UHkmsT_StIhxLfECAY3_jKCXindfaljYX2G4Ej60KTsBi0yToVJnsxLUdwXzMOCp_H9sN6vBfPLYMKxhG6CefwV71-3hUrq6npvAaBKqL_9rH7pBYipjw/s1600/CIMG6912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfP_6Oz7nXiIpmQcj1QAg7-UHkmsT_StIhxLfECAY3_jKCXindfaljYX2G4Ej60KTsBi0yToVJnsxLUdwXzMOCp_H9sN6vBfPLYMKxhG6CefwV71-3hUrq6npvAaBKqL_9rH7pBYipjw/s320/CIMG6912.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Vote Early" was just one agenda on the menu today.</td></tr>
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With fickle autumn morning drifting between warm, chilly, and hot and crisp, beautifully colored leaves raining from wind blustered trees, it set an idyllic preparatory tone for President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden's joint campaign visit to little Dayton, Ohio.<br />
At eleven A.M., I sat on the very first charter bus making its way towards Triangle Park, face staring out at the season's rich earthy loveliness, excitement filling entire body amongst cozy, cushioned rainbow seats.<br />
Yesterday on a normal walk from drawing class, ran into old friend, Latoria King who pointed me into destiny- acquiring that coveted blue "golden" ticket straight from the democratic headquarters in the Oregon District!<br />
That joyous elation continued building into a stronger anticipation well into last night's cheer induced slumber.<br />
It was really happening.<br />
I was going to see the President, live and in living color! <br />
Even as stomach cried over the rush to leave home without breakfast, even as trembling feet stood in a line for two hours, and even while waiting another three hours for the gentlemen to arrive, this experience would be far different than anything ever expected- greater than any concert, theatrical play, or phenomenal poetry reading, my whole life waited for this defining moment of pure clarity.<br /><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSp5QJVlT0p2t3TozSl9kfVVM3M1_zUPeBPxGSSW3FXWf4I0xMicY-GmH_j75WBAwbrWue4mFdqUcl3NYuLD4KccZFOzzj4aq0G-stq_M6gpUOpN_-VJnb1YCjXvL2dAi0a5_JHHpmBQ/s1600/CIMG6919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSp5QJVlT0p2t3TozSl9kfVVM3M1_zUPeBPxGSSW3FXWf4I0xMicY-GmH_j75WBAwbrWue4mFdqUcl3NYuLD4KccZFOzzj4aq0G-stq_M6gpUOpN_-VJnb1YCjXvL2dAi0a5_JHHpmBQ/s320/CIMG6919.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">President Barack Obama encouraging the engaged crowd to listen to wisdom & vote.</td></tr>
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After five, tumultuous hours of desperation, hunger, and glee, the event kicked off straightaway at four P.M. with everyone in the crowd reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, the national anthem sung with graceful eloquence by an amazing vocalist, and a bittersweet introduction by an Obama campaign volunteer. <br />
Vice President Joe Biden came out first, filled with fiery spirit and hilarity, making light of last evening's final presidential debates between President Obama and rival, Governor Mitt Romney and getting the campaign trail kicking by chatting about lies and seeing through facades. <br />
Once President Obama arrived on stage, my ears and eyes went numb. <br />
This wasn't some swoon worthy, drool infested lapse in time.<br />
No.<br />
This was special and rare- an event meant to be savored.<br />
He exuded such a charismatic presence, speaking heartily to the boasting crowd like one does an old, familiar friend, talking of plans for another four years of burgeoning hope ripening into replenished fruit, of creating more employment implanted here in glorious America not shipped overseas, and of making the commitment to being an honest politician, keeping his promises.<br />
Yet stating in firmly passionate conviction that love shouldn't be hidden in secret closeted shame, especially amongst the troops fighting to protect our country, President Obama caused mistiness blurring vision and renewed vigorous belief that anyone should be married if they chose to be regardless of gender roles.<br />
There are far more disgusting circumstances in this ugly, hypocritical world, a lot of unnecessary hatred and callous judgement. A life is too short and perilous for certain individuals condoning and refusing the bonds of marriage to those choosing to want that certification, that piece of acknowledgement that their love is acceptable. <br />
Other than articulating tender and sentimental prose, he fulfilled the gift of his visit, evoking his devoted followers with fire in their hearts. As he waved goodbye to the crowded sea of chants and screams, amongst the alluring wonder of poignant nature, I would never forget this experience, being in the same vicinity with the most powerful man in the country who energetically inspires millions of individuals to propel onward to better opportunities, to a brighter, promising future than they ever thought to deserve. <br />
So as I've learned at the end of this glorious day, of standing in the awarding fall heat, listening to the gospel of a remarkable leader, not to label myself as an artist, writer, advocate, vegan, feminist, black woman.<br />
I am only just a full blooded American through and through. <br />
<br />
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From teacher loving to "Romnesia," President Barack Obama gets the audience pumping with humor, intelligence, and escalating desire to remain the chief! </div>
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*Sorry it's mostly cameras in the air & not enough pres, but you can hear his messages loud & clear!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcm8VWQPldMtvGD7np4xKmoNQhZaHymaSEB_-I4pP0ses7lb03_sX3Nff9rAhi-tkWlUHBTBBAKY62C01f33ZLeuZc5Ohiy9a9Jq6qtN8ftMGO15h_IfCv4ZXzw5HkPcKp-Hc-zuN2NA/s1600/CIMG6930+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcm8VWQPldMtvGD7np4xKmoNQhZaHymaSEB_-I4pP0ses7lb03_sX3Nff9rAhi-tkWlUHBTBBAKY62C01f33ZLeuZc5Ohiy9a9Jq6qtN8ftMGO15h_IfCv4ZXzw5HkPcKp-Hc-zuN2NA/s320/CIMG6930+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Latoria & I meet after the speeches!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such a great time!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin6IdVqV4Kl3DydaAI70axrfsANSm2phduQnUReOn5pBURRX5w_sAsWS6M6ttJ0WPR-L4HIDbL1hNtW8RLPGnpW7KfBixfR_nZn_GgapBV2m11Cw-TdopSZbujJLczVULJANfBN_UfCA/s1600/CIMG6932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin6IdVqV4Kl3DydaAI70axrfsANSm2phduQnUReOn5pBURRX5w_sAsWS6M6ttJ0WPR-L4HIDbL1hNtW8RLPGnpW7KfBixfR_nZn_GgapBV2m11Cw-TdopSZbujJLczVULJANfBN_UfCA/s320/CIMG6932.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And there goes Air Force One.</td></tr>
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Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-77037485224694702432012-10-20T02:04:00.001-07:002012-10-20T02:55:23.041-07:00The Formal AfroVeganChick Blog Introduction<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vErHOSqa_i8o-V7YJbrVhm5c9JOf3_Av8bEaRaNwXTpfBW9BOr1vYCnbBbUkBDTY_ypE9vwwGeviA994_rvBRjBd91udMPAbRhBHPFtloIuLPOtoq9E5w5kgHUKMzhscSoBFJCN4bQ/s1600/IMG_20120508_105454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vErHOSqa_i8o-V7YJbrVhm5c9JOf3_Av8bEaRaNwXTpfBW9BOr1vYCnbBbUkBDTY_ypE9vwwGeviA994_rvBRjBd91udMPAbRhBHPFtloIuLPOtoq9E5w5kgHUKMzhscSoBFJCN4bQ/s320/IMG_20120508_105454.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown rice topped with carrots, broccoli, tofu, & avocado.</td></tr>
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Where are my manners???<br />
My 2nd blog, <a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/">AfroVeganChick</a> started off as a New Year's Resolution in January.<br />
After being a vegetarian for 14 years, I finally wanted to graduate to the full fledged step veganism which means to exclude all animal related products from diet altogether- milk, cheese, eggs, and honey. <br />
2012 is almost over and the blog is still documenting the challenging journey, but somehow I forgot to add the link and talk further about this newfound kitchen creativity and unlike Sugarygingersnap, it has an <a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/2012/07/these-yummy-vegan-pretzels-are-making.html">About Me</a> page which introduces a very goofy, often updated pictorial bio story of yours truly.<br />
I love creating with words on Microsoft Word and in many journals and experimenting in the artist studio with a variety of mediums and surfaces, but in the kitchen, it's all about using the pantry, the fridge, and freezer in another unique relationship via stove, oven, or without heat.<br />
In these ten months, I've made horribly atrocious food and very wonderful, deliciously addictive food. <br />
Thanks to various vegan blogs, helpful reading material focusing on getting proper nutrients especially finding protein in tasty items such as tofu, tempeh, quinoa, kale, and nuts, and an inspiring documentary called <a href="http://www.forksoverknives.com/">Forks Over Knives</a>, I have enriched my eyes, ears, and tongue, further crafting recipes and engaging in making the kitchen another "studio" space where every meal is an attempt at innovative, yummy masterpieces on a plate. <br />
I highly doubt that I'll return to dairy.<br />
Veganism sensuously sexy enjoyment- inside and out, is officially the longest running, most dedicated New Year's Resolution ever made and I love every last, appetizing moment. <br />
The below 5 are some of my favorite recipes with the links added, but I admit comforting foods such as macaroni & cheese and various kinds of pizza are also featured on the blog. <br />
I commend Daiya and nutritional yeast for making that possible. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJuVfWYCbjoC6ZdDml5_nbota9QeBihIOaiMwvD6yU99bwC7hS00-3lK9VZhrvV84rpI_vbSw9eCOrl6zB-LO2-xVccDW1AKfZpmQLueOli3uYftQjIPKQlZgtPJ-BssorqXBmsxEXjQ/s1600/IMG_20120521_151821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJuVfWYCbjoC6ZdDml5_nbota9QeBihIOaiMwvD6yU99bwC7hS00-3lK9VZhrvV84rpI_vbSw9eCOrl6zB-LO2-xVccDW1AKfZpmQLueOli3uYftQjIPKQlZgtPJ-BssorqXBmsxEXjQ/s320/IMG_20120521_151821.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/2012/05/fried-tofu-with-basmati-and-wild-rice.html">Fried Tofu Strips Over Basmati Rice & Broccoli</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2E95gi5EeKQWOCbL5RsWmBgyBXgdFtrath4A7xukY5_x9dwUZA1xTCzEdUbl4ZlwFlXKKqBuqcHblMtFV1IrU-JGBsZNuz-yUJsiQxmF7HmyCmWiA8RjlkEHDX5tuB3SB-LSpxDx0A/s1600/IMG_20120524_170249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2E95gi5EeKQWOCbL5RsWmBgyBXgdFtrath4A7xukY5_x9dwUZA1xTCzEdUbl4ZlwFlXKKqBuqcHblMtFV1IrU-JGBsZNuz-yUJsiQxmF7HmyCmWiA8RjlkEHDX5tuB3SB-LSpxDx0A/s320/IMG_20120524_170249.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/2012/05/happy-birthday-mommy-hows-about.html">Vegan Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D4CFvYbS2RiYrEM-2dtICT9a4f0iGGVVg-J2qrs4gRPTAHewf8ZgbK12-hxUZYiaLFxhCeKAavXN9YH0uTa-O3eFCbr_-qLe-AAJwEBJJNiXNcg8pTPdDwXXRVOoOUiZa_01FMmcQw/s1600/IMG_20120810_002729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D4CFvYbS2RiYrEM-2dtICT9a4f0iGGVVg-J2qrs4gRPTAHewf8ZgbK12-hxUZYiaLFxhCeKAavXN9YH0uTa-O3eFCbr_-qLe-AAJwEBJJNiXNcg8pTPdDwXXRVOoOUiZa_01FMmcQw/s320/IMG_20120810_002729.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/2012/08/vegan-frozen-black-bean-chocolate.html">Frozen Chocolate Black Bean Walnut Brownie Sandwiches With Strawberry Banana Icecream Filling</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Z5xMPXJqgiZwF6cxyrLtRNuKzBoa9OFv8HahbwdxRGFzzUmB1ZVYflmBzptxmAYjyy_-8YHuViZqHkjIIEuoMIZdifDPdEqbiLABCRP-vV2cthyphenhyphenmdzZipBV6lOeUW8mBletP-oAqFg/s1600/IMG_20120904_193040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Z5xMPXJqgiZwF6cxyrLtRNuKzBoa9OFv8HahbwdxRGFzzUmB1ZVYflmBzptxmAYjyy_-8YHuViZqHkjIIEuoMIZdifDPdEqbiLABCRP-vV2cthyphenhyphenmdzZipBV6lOeUW8mBletP-oAqFg/s320/IMG_20120904_193040.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-happy-labor-day-black-bean-burger.html">Black Bean Burger With Cauliflower "Cheese" Sauce</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NKmUjancbkWiIJO6IJArLCE01Jx_AsdXEr33A-aKj60kNHayDZUni2CcBsflXAZmatew8iv2awxJAlL_497jCnhG2v9gVfJbxkK3t3WCVT2L4Kmebf31YDIRdxAdIaE9gJz8eWK8ow/s1600/IMG_20120725_030239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NKmUjancbkWiIJO6IJArLCE01Jx_AsdXEr33A-aKj60kNHayDZUni2CcBsflXAZmatew8iv2awxJAlL_497jCnhG2v9gVfJbxkK3t3WCVT2L4Kmebf31YDIRdxAdIaE9gJz8eWK8ow/s320/IMG_20120725_030239.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/2012/07/these-yummy-vegan-pretzels-are-making.html">Baked Pretzels Topped With Nutritional Yeast & Italian Seasonings </a></td></tr>
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The blog isn't just about cooking, sharing recipes, and product/restaurant reviews, I link inspiring future <a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/p/hairspiration-pictures-of-style.html">Hair Ideas</a>, showcase thrifty fashion advice, share homemade beauty product recipes, have little celebrity encounters that bring out the inner crazy fangirl, and reveal the progress of my afro, which sadly enough is still covered territory unless inside the safety of home.<br />
The purpose is to inspire and hope that someone else sees the progress of these "travels," yearning to do the same. <br />
Why does it always take a new year to take a chance?<br />
I'm taking the plunge by being me and not ever looking back...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigOCZqwgbkD6T0CLK6BZxe2YoPqqwLBUjLJEV1f6rL2IoQivTk9vDQhGW8VqevmfyePQZcrg-ec1mbbbov6V9VwbdiEERyh-8kscScYtWxMj9vI7WiuYfHKMXfpU-hVtXBQRngGxSjBg/s1600/IMG_20120813_171457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigOCZqwgbkD6T0CLK6BZxe2YoPqqwLBUjLJEV1f6rL2IoQivTk9vDQhGW8VqevmfyePQZcrg-ec1mbbbov6V9VwbdiEERyh-8kscScYtWxMj9vI7WiuYfHKMXfpU-hVtXBQRngGxSjBg/s320/IMG_20120813_171457.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the world's most adorable bathroom, about to take off the security blanket. But it's all revealed here & your eyes will never be the same: <a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/p/hair-journey.html">OMG The Afro!</a></td></tr>
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Is there some kind of art related to all this mumbo jumbo????<br />
Why yes! Of course! A vegan bespeckled lady holding a bowl of salad with a yellow rubber ducky in her afro.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RhyphenhyphenEeC4I2LWRZXVx2ulvPbPRUCUgx6uexnGvahVoPKCEKK6aZbq8eG5rnGaXFAOInUZlICCSu5WGLAYEJ7Zp7W15G89xnUbdBQxbsgLMBVaNH-olZAGc-UlEhZL9gj88HWdqdovK-Q/s1600/IMG_20120610_011509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3RhyphenhyphenEeC4I2LWRZXVx2ulvPbPRUCUgx6uexnGvahVoPKCEKK6aZbq8eG5rnGaXFAOInUZlICCSu5WGLAYEJ7Zp7W15G89xnUbdBQxbsgLMBVaNH-olZAGc-UlEhZL9gj88HWdqdovK-Q/s1600/IMG_20120610_011509.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">EAT YOUR GREENS!!! :D</td></tr>
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<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-33828800574024292342012-10-15T12:37:00.003-07:002012-10-20T02:26:12.100-07:00A Year Of Olivia <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mvQZ__WHo9gmCldd9tbecww4ju9-X83ceGq_9qs-ZXvBoTWIm05nxozVEz9QtfqwP7eAJ8DmjVksoE2_QCaQEEvjg27Up7JTwfKjM-PmdWM2LG-5mTNZNmoihTtfCvQwmsvcUA_R6g/s1600/cat10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mvQZ__WHo9gmCldd9tbecww4ju9-X83ceGq_9qs-ZXvBoTWIm05nxozVEz9QtfqwP7eAJ8DmjVksoE2_QCaQEEvjg27Up7JTwfKjM-PmdWM2LG-5mTNZNmoihTtfCvQwmsvcUA_R6g/s320/cat10.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olivia doing what she does best- sleeping & purring simultaneously! </td></tr>
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A whole year of kittiness!<br />
Olivia, my infectious, wonderful, happy, purrfect calico companion is a year and 2 months old or 16.7 in human years. A lot could be said about being a female artistic cat owner living near the hip downtown scene, enjoying the good quiet life, but pictures speak more volumes than a renowned babbler ever could. <br />
Here are the sweet, precious treasures my baby girl doles out daily:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9bka4Fn0-U1Es3uvgHXFxT5FAgUKluNTlc7aSodRQjyvOIY6aI_al79pTaRHmU_NXyhyphenhyphenJ48lHZ5reButwpx6GDaCKC8yJKkA1A7l8moznKJS_vIMqgVwWcp6PPzeD5UHjM_AVVJksfA/s1600/cat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9bka4Fn0-U1Es3uvgHXFxT5FAgUKluNTlc7aSodRQjyvOIY6aI_al79pTaRHmU_NXyhyphenhyphenJ48lHZ5reButwpx6GDaCKC8yJKkA1A7l8moznKJS_vIMqgVwWcp6PPzeD5UHjM_AVVJksfA/s320/cat1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She is too cute when sleeping & is often vulnerable to belly rubs & shameless paw holding!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXPuhBDk77svktjJIs0yaX9x7Erv9kYspXlmg5LPptcVwOKjxhOl7e_EMMtw_kPo2Jm07mWWXx0GcrW2wE-3FrulQBn2If__vQs9dnw_oOO-M-zsreqjoPvwhXfymRE9Cc53xNO44aw/s1600/art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXPuhBDk77svktjJIs0yaX9x7Erv9kYspXlmg5LPptcVwOKjxhOl7e_EMMtw_kPo2Jm07mWWXx0GcrW2wE-3FrulQBn2If__vQs9dnw_oOO-M-zsreqjoPvwhXfymRE9Cc53xNO44aw/s320/art.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes I cannot help adding her into art..</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xwtiBzrbBilGp4qnEq3oY5k9mVR7OmH0_nOZEO9sHLl6Rdm1lNdnPsKB9FUekb5P3Vp4o-cAgROZbJMhFAjnKX52mpqcIVLdeFGkbOwjMzt7t_10FnVe8tnDYtBtc_DCxpVPc4D-vQ/s1600/cat11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xwtiBzrbBilGp4qnEq3oY5k9mVR7OmH0_nOZEO9sHLl6Rdm1lNdnPsKB9FUekb5P3Vp4o-cAgROZbJMhFAjnKX52mpqcIVLdeFGkbOwjMzt7t_10FnVe8tnDYtBtc_DCxpVPc4D-vQ/s320/cat11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish this could really happen...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfQvMbNXsaH291kymaG-CNOtoNH-Y1xC_daIEU7JEBlbxwtNmZvStaK2_v8Vic-3YSoid0HRQdsS8E6jZYwkFYyx3g6y2F8ldKFkG2PirmQOwvjONJq5nmzUecbAJ3c_f16m_5k8r_A/s1600/cat12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfQvMbNXsaH291kymaG-CNOtoNH-Y1xC_daIEU7JEBlbxwtNmZvStaK2_v8Vic-3YSoid0HRQdsS8E6jZYwkFYyx3g6y2F8ldKFkG2PirmQOwvjONJq5nmzUecbAJ3c_f16m_5k8r_A/s320/cat12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am investing in kitty glasses so we could look further alike...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4G2YXSU-RUIZHjqAOpK17OHTEPd396oBhqR0j_F3eKh4L866bpiioqmP6E4HEjpuUI0W_-0ljBejWDAnr3BabJmoB5wvm8uTD8CQGTu0lHMlaHZYXbVV9WXAHOEm3qEDCk5aRlWN6g/s1600/cat13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4G2YXSU-RUIZHjqAOpK17OHTEPd396oBhqR0j_F3eKh4L866bpiioqmP6E4HEjpuUI0W_-0ljBejWDAnr3BabJmoB5wvm8uTD8CQGTu0lHMlaHZYXbVV9WXAHOEm3qEDCk5aRlWN6g/s320/cat13.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An avid hide and seek enthusiast, she often hides underneath expensive, high quality drawing paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVY8cTzXviIrqfk7ftzQLsyOoPsWSI6WJqXZzkBaGCgTHHOVx8FDk-_1MCDyDvmbc07jlRvg9W33PEyeCwxxfaWmxY0D2C0iyMczTGKbrQmrwurZCGWkITG4YEmlYrgdN3PWYUu6BMg/s1600/cat2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVY8cTzXviIrqfk7ftzQLsyOoPsWSI6WJqXZzkBaGCgTHHOVx8FDk-_1MCDyDvmbc07jlRvg9W33PEyeCwxxfaWmxY0D2C0iyMczTGKbrQmrwurZCGWkITG4YEmlYrgdN3PWYUu6BMg/s320/cat2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's always on the other side of a closed door.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KieNGq2gdsx4RPXVeBgJJsf9K1K26FCbcv4oUI30vxkdJQtUhQDdLbQM7PcRdbeEm6xGytV0yVrPpda5kE9oKDBSdWFOiJKZ5LAOfg8WgOAYNhlkJpUO-r14uk8Vh3Qdb4FyK5HbNA/s1600/cat3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KieNGq2gdsx4RPXVeBgJJsf9K1K26FCbcv4oUI30vxkdJQtUhQDdLbQM7PcRdbeEm6xGytV0yVrPpda5kE9oKDBSdWFOiJKZ5LAOfg8WgOAYNhlkJpUO-r14uk8Vh3Qdb4FyK5HbNA/s320/cat3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She jumps on the kitchen counter every night, impatiently waiting for her dinner.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxnm3U9xw5an9imJ1Uw67RtHeE8m581U-IoCwuYFNMaID4o1r8Af6Ova35kJ7zsqfiCLrxO1GID3E5t4NsFOuescdnpav1mKLPPhPEItDqthjNE2cTSuDIotq2YozzhHesA90BUeogDg/s1600/cat4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxnm3U9xw5an9imJ1Uw67RtHeE8m581U-IoCwuYFNMaID4o1r8Af6Ova35kJ7zsqfiCLrxO1GID3E5t4NsFOuescdnpav1mKLPPhPEItDqthjNE2cTSuDIotq2YozzhHesA90BUeogDg/s320/cat4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's brimming with intelligence and isn't obsessed with her outward fluffy beauty & irresistible cuteness.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEoYTQckq9afmzLXORNRG7RLCZ_nxOup4-kRe6sV3IteuA9pe6gPr5fcOsYGLtn8TfN87iSbJGXzaGtwJQj2kaWOhrCErdT7dABOERc7fea_Wrkfp49jKmKGSao6CVzPqT04gMH1a9Q/s1600/cat5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEoYTQckq9afmzLXORNRG7RLCZ_nxOup4-kRe6sV3IteuA9pe6gPr5fcOsYGLtn8TfN87iSbJGXzaGtwJQj2kaWOhrCErdT7dABOERc7fea_Wrkfp49jKmKGSao6CVzPqT04gMH1a9Q/s320/cat5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She sleeps anywhere, but lightly. Always aware of the constant danger surrounding her world like vampire puppets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkSkmtwv8DMmEtZ3MTZSPNmP6OTYXoljkG5E4fC6H5XjyL0bQFUdLFtDc82ioHVVA4gSjp9jOKVWky-gBGGyYRpaoyKPRClnQmtf6W0_E0bzPQrMLwYZ8MaF-DnWRtauNjhus2GIt8w/s1600/cat6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkSkmtwv8DMmEtZ3MTZSPNmP6OTYXoljkG5E4fC6H5XjyL0bQFUdLFtDc82ioHVVA4gSjp9jOKVWky-gBGGyYRpaoyKPRClnQmtf6W0_E0bzPQrMLwYZ8MaF-DnWRtauNjhus2GIt8w/s320/cat6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She makes a new home out of anything. Cardboard boxes especially.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Usuh6dYgr1zdy2yH3uXuY4HZYusUQVqAHdVeLJ_yOKMeWYVyenasDS-43CHPf6ZmFjrAFbzmxkGVLEWrKeG7L0PVlMnMvZJmtbeb6CsljRRa-dmRuXHVyc15DghtXsvp3DAlBr32Tg/s1600/cat7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Usuh6dYgr1zdy2yH3uXuY4HZYusUQVqAHdVeLJ_yOKMeWYVyenasDS-43CHPf6ZmFjrAFbzmxkGVLEWrKeG7L0PVlMnMvZJmtbeb6CsljRRa-dmRuXHVyc15DghtXsvp3DAlBr32Tg/s320/cat7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the steps, she likes to play dangerously. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOYJtpnqPMA3uik-rE4k50Ukq8NBkQaxoF-xkW_9oR6D2Ea-v963XkZvJqfzTVd3p5DtC4LTYy-o9HeeeM3_coVGU3zR5df5E6xLhh3cRtnrF03bIdjpOALaDrlUjStog9Zt5w5L6tQ/s1600/cat8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOYJtpnqPMA3uik-rE4k50Ukq8NBkQaxoF-xkW_9oR6D2Ea-v963XkZvJqfzTVd3p5DtC4LTYy-o9HeeeM3_coVGU3zR5df5E6xLhh3cRtnrF03bIdjpOALaDrlUjStog9Zt5w5L6tQ/s320/cat8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She adores pink tissue paper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_fuNU_TG-hOXlsFfsvzOFZwRgD-8qyRpJ4gmkvO2ABiaPYYmXI8_4PQECnTMHwrRjBU52ydjtf8va7TFb7RoeN9GWuducSQxwfptleWBJo2Qc5btdQAJ2wSBOmPWljtvqfhkBGuWf7w/s1600/cat9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_fuNU_TG-hOXlsFfsvzOFZwRgD-8qyRpJ4gmkvO2ABiaPYYmXI8_4PQECnTMHwrRjBU52ydjtf8va7TFb7RoeN9GWuducSQxwfptleWBJo2Qc5btdQAJ2wSBOmPWljtvqfhkBGuWf7w/s320/cat9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obviously I have taught her well- she draws up her dream cat in her spare time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1FDdb8kGKj5rp5UvXV_SquJnkV4Bi9QijIK8gAc8RoSzE652ry6cv5rzsNnRAqi_7LzSceOI5pGHdmWdTxR0sIBr-7spHHzM5ktwVWxNmXkDn_8jXbw0fDdqG21GTa2SosArjCprrw/s1600/IMG_20120813_033200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1FDdb8kGKj5rp5UvXV_SquJnkV4Bi9QijIK8gAc8RoSzE652ry6cv5rzsNnRAqi_7LzSceOI5pGHdmWdTxR0sIBr-7spHHzM5ktwVWxNmXkDn_8jXbw0fDdqG21GTa2SosArjCprrw/s320/IMG_20120813_033200.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Striking a model pose atop of my backpack. Without permission of course.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67vvG2Ri9BnOekrutZigPebMQFhP2u-FKUUuOMsIpz0hGqswoJsgiZCoIqksXzUmamrKohisZq1Ot3gpMjJjvUWkj3b8wa0K3YVEjlewbbHx18prNuQqZHaMri-bWs6X6WI82Jydb8w/s1600/IMG_20120812_040633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67vvG2Ri9BnOekrutZigPebMQFhP2u-FKUUuOMsIpz0hGqswoJsgiZCoIqksXzUmamrKohisZq1Ot3gpMjJjvUWkj3b8wa0K3YVEjlewbbHx18prNuQqZHaMri-bWs6X6WI82Jydb8w/s320/IMG_20120812_040633.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As I'm drawing at the desk....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUSuY2rKhe_DVMN8PQ9DmmL5d_OQnLTygw8sK8rnuN9lOYKSZmoeP_OzGPA9cy-J6e5FDXVjXb3AuxHeCC7qgPyUFwME8RzFSBo2I1STYCg-Bt6Db3NGVObu8xaLgVl6ojATfWtE41Q/s1600/IMG_20120812_041925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUSuY2rKhe_DVMN8PQ9DmmL5d_OQnLTygw8sK8rnuN9lOYKSZmoeP_OzGPA9cy-J6e5FDXVjXb3AuxHeCC7qgPyUFwME8RzFSBo2I1STYCg-Bt6Db3NGVObu8xaLgVl6ojATfWtE41Q/s320/IMG_20120812_041925.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...she always jumps on my lap though grouchy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOJMHBmGVI6Nx3iRZ0ez9vDrcwoxRu2LxgSHlwoB8s8MjC4dQhcZtNUnPF_JjiyaNwCcEC59PiLw8d_4ynNP8aknXr38h-ZfrJLO37wIBzRs8SaLsQloyDM1Ril91liOxACU4ZMj3Eg/s1600/IMG_20120714_011332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOJMHBmGVI6Nx3iRZ0ez9vDrcwoxRu2LxgSHlwoB8s8MjC4dQhcZtNUnPF_JjiyaNwCcEC59PiLw8d_4ynNP8aknXr38h-ZfrJLO37wIBzRs8SaLsQloyDM1Ril91liOxACU4ZMj3Eg/s320/IMG_20120714_011332.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always sleeping.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisowQu62Lbv4vskQAnEHriFa2CpzPJFID4cjtRhqfTuERoKLqAFO8KWOmIESn7SxVSPRRXmn7vgTxgvI-2sKCkuzwn9mgCTrncd8qoJnvevdp8ouCh9OeeAEfp4WVT7xD6q1ng0GdADQ/s1600/IMG_20120628_222749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisowQu62Lbv4vskQAnEHriFa2CpzPJFID4cjtRhqfTuERoKLqAFO8KWOmIESn7SxVSPRRXmn7vgTxgvI-2sKCkuzwn9mgCTrncd8qoJnvevdp8ouCh9OeeAEfp4WVT7xD6q1ng0GdADQ/s320/IMG_20120628_222749.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can't tell whether or not she likes yoga.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7r0Cr6Xch9Z02Pex6mrrR3Cj-olnmqeCpinUa5GXtHD4qbwVLnuQ-KhrEx-951w73FCjJApkCacTYZln0A2ZUkJiwHTHfxolgc_QG6axw6INvRfyDhWe0TcKEOt6Ftk6GtQJJElx9w/s1600/IMG_20120624_184144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7r0Cr6Xch9Z02Pex6mrrR3Cj-olnmqeCpinUa5GXtHD4qbwVLnuQ-KhrEx-951w73FCjJApkCacTYZln0A2ZUkJiwHTHfxolgc_QG6axw6INvRfyDhWe0TcKEOt6Ftk6GtQJJElx9w/s320/IMG_20120624_184144.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing matters more to me than my precious Olivia. </td></tr>
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<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-77579287478983004162012-10-14T02:35:00.001-07:002012-10-14T02:35:23.658-07:00Figure Drawing 101 Part 1: Idealization Reflective EssayIt's been an eye opening six weeks.<br />
Each life anatomy drawing class at Sinclair Community College offers fascinating insight into the interior and exterior structures of figurative study- how bones and muscles operate together underneath the body's largest organ.<br />
However, this class's purpose involves a much deeper analysis than making realistic, technically savvy art in traditionalist fashion and is considered an intrusive, very intimidating psychological awakening.<br />
Each homework assignment must be from life and if a model is unavailable or unfounded, which in most cases they are, students must use themselves as composition and though allowed undergarments, it is imperative to showcase bones and muscles accurately to frame.<br />
By using our personal bodies, it can at times create a conflict no one is prepared to tackle. <br />
"Now we only have a few people in the class so there's no reason to be uncomfortable with revealing yourselves," said instructor, Mark Echtner. "In fact, I've had students in the past who have made discoveries that at first they were overly critical of, but eventually learned to accept those 'flaws' and highlight them in their drawings." <br />
At first, I laughed at the notion, having drawn my form sans clothes several times and only revealing that art to a select few, but slowly pieces of my timid personality unraveled from using the mirror in ways never used.<br />
Examples of course homework:<br />
First assignment- drawing face with skeletal structure.<br />
Second- draw face with a hand.<br />
Third- arm and shoulder attachment.<br />
Fourth- twisted torso.<br />
Fifth- foreshortened torso view...<br />
Now as the homework became more complicated and the mirror started focusing on depressing avenues, <br />
inner questions rose on suppressed issues pertaining to aesthetics and perception. <br />
What was considered a beautiful body and who has one?<br />
Why do I always exclude myself as a part of the latter answer?<br />
For years, I've been obsessively compulsive about media's representation, that rail thin phenomenon of the idealistic perfect figure: long straight hair, thin face, perky breasts, tightly muscled stomach, and long lean legs. My burning curiosity ventured as far as Google searching Hollywood actresses/models weight/measurement profiles and wondered why heavy amounts of excruciating exercise and healthy eating can't my overly trained body look the ideal, crying over not being thinner. <br />
In this particular drawing class, addressing what the TV, the movies, high school peers, and strangers on the street have obviously taught, not only does the weekly female model represent coveted beauty so does the figures showcased in required book, <i>Atlas Of Human Anatomy for the Artist</i> by Stephen Rogers Peck and these weekly assignments forced confronting long hindered mental issues about that view.<br />
The horror story of sitting naked alone in a dark room with charcoal, a
large piece of paper, and a small lamp brightening imperfections brought
about fear and enhanced that "ugly girl syndrome" mindset and gave realization that ethnicity and genetics factor into this extreme face and body hatred.<br />
I am a black girl with thick, ethnic features and body programmed to dislike.<br />
In the process of looking in the honest mirror without cringing and drawing down that miserable thick hourglass form,
the mirror revealed the startling shapes lacking the waifish supermodel ideal, I cannot stop being judgmental. That gnawing, negative predictable hate eats away as
charcoal smears the paper and I keep comparing myself to other women, who are not minorities, and ultimately seeing that abstract notions of unorthodox yearning are completely unbalanced.<br />
As I continued searching my body for beauty, criticizing everything from head to toe, and disliking my teacher for making me dig deeper into this uncharted territory while still being in the artist role, it becomes easy to not be genuine, to create fictional marks, disheartened that no pleasure can be derived in the experience. <br />
The dread rose to a feverish pitch at this week's next unveiled homework
assignment- getting the entire figure down on the paper in a box format-
head, feet, and everything in between.<br />
Very, very frightening.... <br />
Since turning vegan, dropping an astonishing twenty-five pounds and taking ample note of scary mental image of a fit woman still desiring to be a little skinnier, when staring in the mirror, I feel utterly torn between disgust and claustrophobic in rectangular prison.<br />
But that mindset pattern is slowly fading. <br />
Each week, growing better accustomed to my body and the challenge a refreshing assignment presents, I am a motivational cheerleader- telling myself to stop being afraid, trash hateful criticism, and think like a good visual artist trying to master capturing the human body in creative prowess. <br />
An emerging presence comes to the forefront- focused, softened light revealing curve in brilliance and hiding shape in darkened shadow and seeing that beautiful encouragement <br />
A short time ago, I wouldn't even want to conduct a full body self-portrait drawing, especially nude.<br />
"This is about seeing the structure and getting it down in a masterful, realistic manner so that it <i>appears</i> to a photo," Ecktner explains as students looked appalled. "But in reality drawing is just another way of creative abstraction." <br />
Perhaps due to reaching a maturing, accepting stage, I'm finally learning to accept reflection and see that the teacher isn't the enemy.<br />
That he was right all along. <br />
This complex class isn't just about figurative anatomy, it allows opportunity to break free from shy, insecure box, appreciate unearthed uniqueness, value every inch of unclothed skin, and not cringe or wish to vanish into a darkened corner or smash formerly deceptive, villainous mirror into smithereens.<br />
Shifted in unimaginable ways, my relationship with the rectangular glass is developing into a positive circumstance, giving this powerful
bravery to move forward, shut off waging self-doubt, and close the mind
to past vulnerability.<br />
I feel radiant sometimes, even a bit happy at what the visage entails. <br />
So what if my coarse, nappy hair doesn't grow straight from scalp, my chest has these two large mounds of fleshy skin, no six pack emerges on the surface of my stomach, my thighs are thicker than most, and my chicken legs are short, muscled stomps?<br />
I actually quite like my peculiar exterior.<br />
No.<br />
In fact, I'm almost in love, but promise not to be narcissistic, artificial, or conceited about it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-22034219014944124102012-10-09T21:08:00.000-07:002012-10-09T22:13:23.154-07:00A Tale Of Two Libras: A Birthday Card Post To Bestie<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">"Librans
are sensitive to the needs of others and have the gift, sometimes to an
almost psychic extent, of understanding the emotional needs of their
companions and meeting them with their own innate optimism - they are
the kind of people of whom it is said, "They always make you feel better
for having been with them."- <a href="http://www.astrology-online.com/libra.htm">All About Libra</a> </span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfuis1JztsP-4QOBkkG-zkoBsoh7J_lKtXsM4FvboNztp5dBa97WJYIiNnc-9TOFILjR-neiRfK25v96VV8zIVZ9YVEsFN_IYP5iZpwTxaoJ3099jUDyqpzRv-5rCgj_WyXb531Eqjw/s1600/yay4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfuis1JztsP-4QOBkkG-zkoBsoh7J_lKtXsM4FvboNztp5dBa97WJYIiNnc-9TOFILjR-neiRfK25v96VV8zIVZ9YVEsFN_IYP5iZpwTxaoJ3099jUDyqpzRv-5rCgj_WyXb531Eqjw/s320/yay4.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wishing a happy 30th birthday to Libran pal since our hellish Colonel White High School for the Arts days.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today seems appropriate for a reflective, stroll down memory lane journey. <br />
About thirteen years ago, on the outdoor grounds of torturous high school, I was
introduced to fellow creative free spirited, quiet yet humorous, Asia Aneka Anderson, whom prior to meeting, Stephanie Bramel had quoted, "You have got to meet this girl. She's a lot like you."<br />
And indeed we have much in common.<br />
Taste in widened kaleidoscope of music. Quirky, unique fashion style. Appreciation for creative writing, books, and poetry. Love for autumn and October brilliance. Working at the library because one cannot spell library without "Libra!"<br />
And yes, most importantly, our birthdays are two days apart.<br />
She is an intelligent, talented, gifted, observant, beautiful, funny lady and I'm glad to call her a friend! <br />
Back in the day, afternoons spent in Mrs. Rogers' crowded art room, letting creativity roam free, bonding over Justin Timberlake's attractiveness while outside during the lunch hour amongst our selective band of misfits, we attempted the easy peasy, hand waving, stomp your feet as you twirl in a circle "Bye, Bye, Bye" dance. Just two brown, alternative, quiet girls excitedly crushing on late 90's early 2000's pop revival. Though she hated Britney, I loved her.<br />
We weren't obsessed with narcissistic high school peers- the jocks, the cheerleaders, the in-betweens. <br />
No.<br />
Asia and I were true visionaries. <br />
Our explored imaginative worlds often starred intriguing people worth admiring and our life goals planned seeking independence from workforce and waving artistic freedom flags- Asia dreams of becoming a Rolling Stone music journalist while I want to become a traveling artist/fiction writer. <br />
There's still ample time to put those seeds into fruition...<br />
The first film we saw together was 2002's Josh Hartnett's <i>40 Days and 40 Nights</i>, a story about a sex addict who takes on a vow of chastity and on his last climatic day, he has this strange creepy dream about flying through a sea of boobs. Talk about awkward...<br />
Other big screen pictures we both enjoyed- Lord Of The Rings, just about every Elijah Wood movie ever created even Happy Feet, Harry Potter, independent genre, and so much more. Heck, we adore some of the same actors, but with her living in opportunistic Chicago (she moved away so long ago *sobs*), often she meets and poses with them (coughs Tyrese Gibson & Josh Duhamel), but I feel more happiness than envy because of this spiritual connection quality.<br />
Weird, but it's real and genuine.<br />
She has been to Australia. I visited Paris. <br />
But of course one of these days, we'll venture to another foreign country- perhaps at the same time, on the same airplane. Maybe have a London adventure that involves stalking Harry Potter actors or J.K. Rowling while having tea and biscuits and photographing landmarks. <br />
A Libra can dream right?<br />
It's rare nowadays to have friends or a friend that truly get who you are and what you aspire to be and make a pact to stay in contact with that individual, especially when they move far away. Thanks to the wonderful Internet, connected by the threads Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and now Instagram provides, I can still chat with my bosom buddy whenever possible. She understands me and I feel the same way about her. <br />
That kind of camaraderie is a rewarding treat!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoLVNtonDfQ02-4sZTPq_Fp2iXobi9zaY9JuwgF7cmL3VySH-9UKxM0o60jnQaQo2dXSKpeN239FFl-RozhqJ_-IVta3Vnlz_FjCaTOJ-RJwFg5N-0DZ9900NabWwVsM2fsUSue8EXA/s1600/IMG5678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoLVNtonDfQ02-4sZTPq_Fp2iXobi9zaY9JuwgF7cmL3VySH-9UKxM0o60jnQaQo2dXSKpeN239FFl-RozhqJ_-IVta3Vnlz_FjCaTOJ-RJwFg5N-0DZ9900NabWwVsM2fsUSue8EXA/s320/IMG5678.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chilling in Mrs. Rogers' art room on my 17th birthday with Stephanie & Asia- one dollar bills pinned to my shirt.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlQbg-WCDmCIUmV4i8NH4aXi0KdmXJVKlp3Vy_AHlc7uOtbhY0CSpNXKVYUhf9b2jCLLPf0PI2gAdc5KuchK7v_K509DRMHIXdTNv3fwUAcx8FQA9Kq1-Q2yjBG6T78JspVQvSHtwsw/s1600/IMG5675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlQbg-WCDmCIUmV4i8NH4aXi0KdmXJVKlp3Vy_AHlc7uOtbhY0CSpNXKVYUhf9b2jCLLPf0PI2gAdc5KuchK7v_K509DRMHIXdTNv3fwUAcx8FQA9Kq1-Q2yjBG6T78JspVQvSHtwsw/s320/IMG5675.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front of Asia's senior picture. Calm, cool, collected. Very, very classy. Heavy alliteration use....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIhPPTy9A2krkq0zzelMgNB8lrv-tEN-AKa25ZxGmTEas7h-Ya2lkSO0LqdVWnTQRP3Yuy_XNggtkxOQQxZ9NP6yzbo0r-F0MIwKIKYXet7kpHndcg610rKAve8i810Tp2WRMbpM2iA/s1600/IMG5674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIhPPTy9A2krkq0zzelMgNB8lrv-tEN-AKa25ZxGmTEas7h-Ya2lkSO0LqdVWnTQRP3Yuy_XNggtkxOQQxZ9NP6yzbo0r-F0MIwKIKYXet7kpHndcg610rKAve8i810Tp2WRMbpM2iA/s320/IMG5674.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Never let anyone tell you that you can't accomplish your dreams cuz you can."- Asia "Timberlake" Anderson, 2001</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVemSRdcvcCq5uELnIx3m_30Ol9UfUlo33d8QjBnzC0-eufnShS-kUx5u6oMissHPVn0_XyAaWBKDBGI6u0ecHow8YHvUcVBwpGeaWti5eLpkKeuG95bxZ2dziU8Uug2xLlZHecBQEJA/s1600/nsync.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVemSRdcvcCq5uELnIx3m_30Ol9UfUlo33d8QjBnzC0-eufnShS-kUx5u6oMissHPVn0_XyAaWBKDBGI6u0ecHow8YHvUcVBwpGeaWti5eLpkKeuG95bxZ2dziU8Uug2xLlZHecBQEJA/s320/nsync.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Justin Timberlake marionette! Ugh. Why did I throw him & JC away??? :(</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVij2TuPcR9ZvQ_AIibrcSwrQqM82_v-SZG2ld3h4R7V0EljrN1KSzArBwyJ-bzryagTdXYgTUiUATWNhRiGqMkfND1zrsF4bnY_ouxbXd_qFnjYmMm5KKJfNzTUrA28VCUwrlp6X6Q/s1600/nsync+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVij2TuPcR9ZvQ_AIibrcSwrQqM82_v-SZG2ld3h4R7V0EljrN1KSzArBwyJ-bzryagTdXYgTUiUATWNhRiGqMkfND1zrsF4bnY_ouxbXd_qFnjYmMm5KKJfNzTUrA28VCUwrlp6X6Q/s320/nsync+2.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our stance. But who is that person in the back trying to steal Libran thunder?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5ppETzevedSsbujPV_Crowcumj1D3F_DVsnBKrDBmUWzIKwg_Alu-htnk7LF0tRB5VByeKlSU3UrJ8_T0YHp1RzojXg_FcZN2JXtp2K31dRoXJQ_iDIByKiI628nmzvpmAKyzcBjFw/s1600/video3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5ppETzevedSsbujPV_Crowcumj1D3F_DVsnBKrDBmUWzIKwg_Alu-htnk7LF0tRB5VByeKlSU3UrJ8_T0YHp1RzojXg_FcZN2JXtp2K31dRoXJQ_iDIByKiI628nmzvpmAKyzcBjFw/s320/video3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A take in between Asia's Youtube documentary filmed at the Dayton Metro Library starring Asia, Sabrina, & me! Alas the only feature I would ever be caught dead in. Unless she has plans for another...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLmtFP8FzPtcefQfCsglCp-lpT3n6qd5wcSJCEvFiMARaTviRW9EpMT7V48VU5VsUajFPPEHFacaqHTQCIxX2ls5E-TJ4dSXKpCQt9W0mHMhbNGfyCfBdRX_BIx7uzSlq13Su16p5Aw/s1600/yay!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLmtFP8FzPtcefQfCsglCp-lpT3n6qd5wcSJCEvFiMARaTviRW9EpMT7V48VU5VsUajFPPEHFacaqHTQCIxX2ls5E-TJ4dSXKpCQt9W0mHMhbNGfyCfBdRX_BIx7uzSlq13Su16p5Aw/s320/yay!.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our karaoke night of Justin Timberlake/Timbaland's "Sexyback" & Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats" at Therapy Cafe in downtown Dayton.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoF-pTw05JjPhi0JBe5dobG9xuMb8NVb6coCOCjztv8lB4TeoF9AWtBLetpT3IkDuSmO5_DaVgN5pAIj2NuI9foOArej6mEsMmFP6HXyh1YkljN3e2ksGITlAMpaKP3XDFoLAjXcivNQ/s1600/chi9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoF-pTw05JjPhi0JBe5dobG9xuMb8NVb6coCOCjztv8lB4TeoF9AWtBLetpT3IkDuSmO5_DaVgN5pAIj2NuI9foOArej6mEsMmFP6HXyh1YkljN3e2ksGITlAMpaKP3XDFoLAjXcivNQ/s320/chi9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Windy City meetup over drinks & rich men hunting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujCdRmHfz5X4IEgZjkllikp4b9vVUdiJKlrLy1YG30mZbXMT4CYLq_Oh4bJiVKo8CFG34cdETmt5w3rbzeIjLEIdDZU0f0qwXRvuZzeOdv2hQyPsWva0aCoXYDJgw21MUxSW8YYvuXg/s1600/chi8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujCdRmHfz5X4IEgZjkllikp4b9vVUdiJKlrLy1YG30mZbXMT4CYLq_Oh4bJiVKo8CFG34cdETmt5w3rbzeIjLEIdDZU0f0qwXRvuZzeOdv2hQyPsWva0aCoXYDJgw21MUxSW8YYvuXg/s320/chi8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside the bar looking like superstar winners after two sweet fruity drinks each!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_enWBS9C_8gbA0MFzs4c_aIfd5gcMK1qVxHAp3UDzhzgHWgVAqTVBSMDpbgdJ3urcduxwQmZsBLkUHggiXa1IglR9rmXGXSDYrlqqdPgjADbeIodYjeYtUolLyKar_EYVD8EZg_63kg/s1600/yay3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_enWBS9C_8gbA0MFzs4c_aIfd5gcMK1qVxHAp3UDzhzgHWgVAqTVBSMDpbgdJ3urcduxwQmZsBLkUHggiXa1IglR9rmXGXSDYrlqqdPgjADbeIodYjeYtUolLyKar_EYVD8EZg_63kg/s320/yay3.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Two Libras are so much better than one," says the green pea in the pod!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Again, happy birthday Asia, my friend! Hoping that you are celebrating this wonderful milestone Tuesday in a gracious, spoiled manner and that you're treated to chocolate, a day off work, relaxation, train rides, Windy City madness, and getting into all kinds of shameless shenanigans. <br />
That's what you're supposed to do!<br />
FYI: Looking for an online place to truly appreciate Asia's writing style? Look no further than Tumblr. Please read her prose <a href="http://sparklingglove.tumblr.com/">Moonwalking To Heaven</a>, an inspirational, moving story about the spiritual adventures of beloved singer Michael Jackson as he copes with death and the afterlife. Hopefully, it'll open up blurry eyes, give encouraging strength to continue life's earthy journey, and provide sweet conclusion that it's best to be humbled and be thankful to all that warms the heart. <br />
One could always be less fortuitous...Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-6317894747257815722012-10-08T21:39:00.001-07:002012-10-08T23:32:30.828-07:00First Friday & Catch Up Babble<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmS2Zt54Id-sfxuQMlC9cOvLzsr40drLlAVzhoNOiJocCjziU4Zfhbt_xBrIHUkRIu3Lm49We_jRPsVgATVlXi2mCGKG7YIFkuIQPsVrYmCvDWON_Y41by6n0ippnTQYv6ccciMyy4g/s1600/IMG4608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmS2Zt54Id-sfxuQMlC9cOvLzsr40drLlAVzhoNOiJocCjziU4Zfhbt_xBrIHUkRIu3Lm49We_jRPsVgATVlXi2mCGKG7YIFkuIQPsVrYmCvDWON_Y41by6n0ippnTQYv6ccciMyy4g/s320/IMG4608.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Though my awesome t-shirt arrived months ago, I still love it to death! For contributing $100 to the Alice Walker Film Project, this and the below postcard were incredible incentives!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpEm1Fy9lT0iAjBWLec4_mbVBZbuLtyMP5o3m1WyQ4Z7sN3OAWKohMeUV0Rr0bCNTXHxDxy51EWLCvb_VUQDQG4haBQgKQAFhtO32pcnU9ewhl7deS2Dp2TaaOYnLwIY5ZNGKmvY7JA/s1600/aw_bit_preview_postcard_flat_final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpEm1Fy9lT0iAjBWLec4_mbVBZbuLtyMP5o3m1WyQ4Z7sN3OAWKohMeUV0Rr0bCNTXHxDxy51EWLCvb_VUQDQG4haBQgKQAFhtO32pcnU9ewhl7deS2Dp2TaaOYnLwIY5ZNGKmvY7JA/s320/aw_bit_preview_postcard_flat_final.jpg" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="217" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Expect nothing. Live frugally on surprise." - Alice Malsenior Walker, author, poet, activist, & inspiration</td></tr>
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It's been a while.
</div>
<div>
So sorry.</div>
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However, I've not been entirely M.I.A. in the bloggersphere- working quite hard on <a href="http://afroveganchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #810081;">afroveganchick.blogspot.com</span></a>, <wbr></wbr>a New
Year's resolution into veganism that has transformed into a
shared experience of a remarkable journey. Since eating a strict plant
based diet ten months ago (wow!), an ardent passion for food and kitchen
has emerged and blossomed into a vigorously enjoyable process so eerily
similar to creating art and writing. It taps into that desire to be
innovative, but instead of using just eyes and hands, nose and taste
buds are the most ample part in deciding which flavor combinations
effectively work together. So much like which two paints make the best
color or which words best complete
a sentence....</div>
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Obviously, I could yammer on and on about my cooking addiction, but anywho, let's see what has been happening in merry old Dayton, shall we?</div>
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Last
week, my eyes took in the paintings, prints, drawings, and
photography of the Sinclair art department faculty exhibit held at
Sinclair Community College. But in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle
Gallery, the magnetic, all powerful Curtis Barnes Sr's thick,
layered textures and bold colored oil painted brushstrokes took over
the space with vibrancy and captivating depth.With a wide breadth of work ranging from stylized African influenced narrative to paying a respectful nod to past artists such as French Post Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne and Abstract Expressionist Jackson Pollack, Barnes Sr showcases a phenomenal, quite physical engagement with the canvas that is impossible to ignore. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JngsR10ktDn2y5hSsKFNdausE_7X9GjqXnxzmtlqdEBrb6ZGK9nvIrIIQvIdwHWsnjPrzzP5SmRzc8XlEziLwTue7Xou3o0L_gyHd5gTsBA3MyBaXjcAvP8RoKMJoRtx4usQl9FUaA/s1600/IMG5568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JngsR10ktDn2y5hSsKFNdausE_7X9GjqXnxzmtlqdEBrb6ZGK9nvIrIIQvIdwHWsnjPrzzP5SmRzc8XlEziLwTue7Xou3o0L_gyHd5gTsBA3MyBaXjcAvP8RoKMJoRtx4usQl9FUaA/s320/IMG5568.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Untitled.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNF3ZU56ZhCsO0JHDWJQKTJ2E14PrHpPoe55jpaFyq192tWIC2WwyDfTQpAPyl2_6aBnY6H-fMZCVCuWuEwSgRcMZkRPB5D2Wz8h6t_MzIFbBJezgRYte3dePJxsSHFI5G0JzMuCOEw/s1600/IMG5564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNF3ZU56ZhCsO0JHDWJQKTJ2E14PrHpPoe55jpaFyq192tWIC2WwyDfTQpAPyl2_6aBnY6H-fMZCVCuWuEwSgRcMZkRPB5D2Wz8h6t_MzIFbBJezgRYte3dePJxsSHFI5G0JzMuCOEw/s320/IMG5564.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Untitled.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoSG4eUJjVPBzHVTvR9xd7YRpN5NI1i0e-K-2jXFFs8VA5FCEp8Xeu9trXXXY-Ffs_SyJEohl9wEAmaR5bTG7hTbfc3TxX3NgjYJQbzs-TA8UCnOqmiJVVcJEA7CiDGwSW3g-p5vcQg/s1600/IMG5567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoSG4eUJjVPBzHVTvR9xd7YRpN5NI1i0e-K-2jXFFs8VA5FCEp8Xeu9trXXXY-Ffs_SyJEohl9wEAmaR5bTG7hTbfc3TxX3NgjYJQbzs-TA8UCnOqmiJVVcJEA7CiDGwSW3g-p5vcQg/s320/IMG5567.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Untitled.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPa1U3GJ7cXFAVxztRRrZnq0JsnZdOB1lBmSOp9jjhhqsOxp67AzJf648bLzEs0RfYXMvcDNEO4qIisUi8VysdtLddwt6M4XRkcbt8m7b6AGLmcjy5s-aHtqtUK8KlSx2aEbn0SWkmw/s1600/IMG5569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPa1U3GJ7cXFAVxztRRrZnq0JsnZdOB1lBmSOp9jjhhqsOxp67AzJf648bLzEs0RfYXMvcDNEO4qIisUi8VysdtLddwt6M4XRkcbt8m7b6AGLmcjy5s-aHtqtUK8KlSx2aEbn0SWkmw/s320/IMG5569.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homage To Jackson Pollack.</td></tr>
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
"This is breathtaking. Just wanted to tell you how much I love it."<br />
Good news, <i>African Fin Mermaid Goddess</i> sold last week on the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Sugarygingersnap">Sugarygingersnap's Official Etsy Store</a> to a very sweet person who sent me that above anecdote. Here the Art Nouveau inspired Prismacolor and litho pencil drawing is wrapped in tissue paper, bowed with lovely green ribbon treatment and paper clipped business card attachment. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjcCGH829mrfFbGwGdxzaq-S9qkdqCcCC7orgtqob_FQtkkeZwYwdNjmS-13RghpCFAYLIlJqXvnploWkrVrKilzTRis2d4lCVsuOZD72QyxT6eCESFhwoNGbZnGOxRMjB60mr787JHA/s1600/IMG5579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjcCGH829mrfFbGwGdxzaq-S9qkdqCcCC7orgtqob_FQtkkeZwYwdNjmS-13RghpCFAYLIlJqXvnploWkrVrKilzTRis2d4lCVsuOZD72QyxT6eCESFhwoNGbZnGOxRMjB60mr787JHA/s320/IMG5579.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>African Fin Mermaid Goddess</i>, 9x12, Strathmore Bristol Vellum, 2012.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvaJYmeiWcuCpok6_EMapR1cjVy746hGf5Q-23JtSf5WzABRe2MSZ3z5Iv7GqaWpJ5IHXXuzPX-mAkZ14oSFPeWgyCQDBP_oWXY9w7DYF6_HT1U3PIsGTNG_jRkaCC4qq1D4At4-glQ/s1600/IMG5580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvaJYmeiWcuCpok6_EMapR1cjVy746hGf5Q-23JtSf5WzABRe2MSZ3z5Iv7GqaWpJ5IHXXuzPX-mAkZ14oSFPeWgyCQDBP_oWXY9w7DYF6_HT1U3PIsGTNG_jRkaCC4qq1D4At4-glQ/s320/IMG5580.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for shipping.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2lyrodwcAAySMPzmU2La8DwHFJR2mg5sb_1EWsMSNuHHioARifQ2OqbR0X5QET3-DYDhaszigjhuooT1HStGEzR5N0WShxMnfJ8cS0vG6FhUXoo6MVXRVWB8Jx7Vj8muedTbt_wxfA/s1600/IMG5525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2lyrodwcAAySMPzmU2La8DwHFJR2mg5sb_1EWsMSNuHHioARifQ2OqbR0X5QET3-DYDhaszigjhuooT1HStGEzR5N0WShxMnfJ8cS0vG6FhUXoo6MVXRVWB8Jx7Vj8muedTbt_wxfA/s320/IMG5525.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In love with moo.com. Front and back of colorful new business cards printed on recycled cardstock. Yay indeed! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Y0OHX5rcBdfr2HiuUzUGDIQ-A9aP6cBsZyUaON-6s01VFSU2u-qLzyleDoWCfQAk_bOCGnPsB215HNNxB13vlm_Cb8WJTvMcATxiupKOSPzcUbPwb6WIG9DpYLyfNTkUDXgyWKqMbw/s1600/IMG5613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Y0OHX5rcBdfr2HiuUzUGDIQ-A9aP6cBsZyUaON-6s01VFSU2u-qLzyleDoWCfQAk_bOCGnPsB215HNNxB13vlm_Cb8WJTvMcATxiupKOSPzcUbPwb6WIG9DpYLyfNTkUDXgyWKqMbw/s320/IMG5613.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gaile, owner of downtown Dayton's Cachet G! Boutique & Art Gallery & me clutching handpainted canvas clutches designed by Dayton artist Marilyn.</td></tr>
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Made the most of a rained out First Friday, ignoring the horrid weather and skipping along downtown Dayton in retro cat print dress and 1 inch brown heels. <br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dayton Visual Arts Center's latest show, In Vivo: Erin Holscher Almazan, Francis Schanberger and Diane Stemper is an organic flow of precise detail and earthy flare that gives viewers a refreshing perspective on realism and natural elegance. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">At the reception, I spoke briefly with Schanberger who gave insight on the Van Dyke printing process, established as early as 1820's, the photography/printmaking process includes a step using the sunlight to give the paper that beautiful rich brown hue</span> and apparently </span>this technique could easily be translated to drawing. <br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now that is worth exploring, I enjoy testing out new mediums!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Also,
I appreciated his assistance in help me find fine quality artist paper,
which is rare and hard to find in our little city since McCallister's
closed down so long ago. No longer stuck with mediocre shops
Michael's and Hobby Lobby, but now <a href="http://paperconnection.com/">PaperConnection.com</a> is the place to go everybody.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">FYI: the gallery talk featuring these three artists is Thursday, October 11th at 6:15 PM and yours truly will be there to learn more about their individual creative processes. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbw07vlIuva7fQRj6UA8QgIhnmV4-aThvfe1Vy7ESzOv_Z3z_HhnuFpjWLtt6IFdkELy6VyZeLkR2urCC0GiQcOquq6Ytq01_PGQLZQYqHao7Yqug5zkvFFggSb-IaekXHAAskRPzmwA/s1600/Sarah.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbw07vlIuva7fQRj6UA8QgIhnmV4-aThvfe1Vy7ESzOv_Z3z_HhnuFpjWLtt6IFdkELy6VyZeLkR2urCC0GiQcOquq6Ytq01_PGQLZQYqHao7Yqug5zkvFFggSb-IaekXHAAskRPzmwA/s320/Sarah.png" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Tethers series, Erin Holscher Almazan's large scale ethereal drawings reveal poignant, visceral poetry that moves the viewer by the sheer yet quiet intensity of each female portrait's beguiling quixotic presence. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFGsY3n0s-aLSwlmeA9Z1nPpHK9sUDSk04sEF0-DVc4Xweg3Vomdx9ZLHxvUyBvA1k-i4r-pIhH6h5w0Fvd7nz4CyAMrEVqNV0y7FZnn1e5S5YLb6s75T6QdnYgnLs7jn3q6_umccQg/s1600/combo%252520photo_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFGsY3n0s-aLSwlmeA9Z1nPpHK9sUDSk04sEF0-DVc4Xweg3Vomdx9ZLHxvUyBvA1k-i4r-pIhH6h5w0Fvd7nz4CyAMrEVqNV0y7FZnn1e5S5YLb6s75T6QdnYgnLs7jn3q6_umccQg/s320/combo%252520photo_0.jpg" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the top, Francis Schanberger's Van Dyke prints consist of organic, free flowing, abstract fibers finessed beautifully by intriguing thin, willowy patterned mark making and softened, penetrable light while below, Diane Stemper's educational, elementally profound bookmaking entails transforming scientific and worldly exploratory classifications using concise knowledge, intricately detailed image, and craft to engage viewers into reading art. </td></tr>
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Now Urban Nights (which occurred September 14th) revealed the grand opening of Treasures Boutique, a unique, vintage consignment boutique that was well worth the anticipated wait. Next to its sister store, Treasure 4 U, a hip, urban trove of original art, jewelry, comic books, and more, Treasures Boutique caters to the old school fashion lover. Inside of the large, dimly lit interior, there are dressing rooms located in the back to try on adorable period dresses priced $10 and up, retro styled pumps and flats fit for any occasion, and accessories galore that could add wonders to any costume. (Halloween is coming up!)<br />
It would be easy to become destitute as one pinches pennies together just to buy everything the heart desires....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvmCl2O1GP951VU3crjpjsKIEtDbV5sgIBqsDLAOc4vu8_WQXwx5ugUz0LiNwz6aC6Os7-fSwyZ2kYz4LOr9Zn4YmImlGjYZCMOKI_HVKhQ6s5j4ZVzEv9CXt8rqHtk4Or-5erg5LNA/s1600/IMG5462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvmCl2O1GP951VU3crjpjsKIEtDbV5sgIBqsDLAOc4vu8_WQXwx5ugUz0LiNwz6aC6Os7-fSwyZ2kYz4LOr9Zn4YmImlGjYZCMOKI_HVKhQ6s5j4ZVzEv9CXt8rqHtk4Or-5erg5LNA/s320/IMG5462.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On 502 Wayne Avenue, lo and behold the chic appeal.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pDnFXIbDKq0M9heDXUFJ_UwqgB2Q0fOzk1rqGXQ9vCS4rRHqbWV10APlJtXolZlMPy7jCQ59OgGlxBqxMTFv2T-eoiepwbp_HyXNXnPwhlR4tszHRm1VWnBnzpy7Ev9VnjlzfxYKnA/s1600/IMG5467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pDnFXIbDKq0M9heDXUFJ_UwqgB2Q0fOzk1rqGXQ9vCS4rRHqbWV10APlJtXolZlMPy7jCQ59OgGlxBqxMTFv2T-eoiepwbp_HyXNXnPwhlR4tszHRm1VWnBnzpy7Ev9VnjlzfxYKnA/s320/IMG5467.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Potential scarves to add to my collection? Hmmm....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivP1ioVelNuEUSrNZOF3IV4NyaktlW-UlU-jGasstbWpe3ZXYQjuTZyredziegiPtXZNgv9jkDHvVefFP7JWhVfWwnn7SkaxoDB5GQbwCbxf45CPWzmojqzVl1sCGjnFkeU1xqZqdopg/s1600/IMG5469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivP1ioVelNuEUSrNZOF3IV4NyaktlW-UlU-jGasstbWpe3ZXYQjuTZyredziegiPtXZNgv9jkDHvVefFP7JWhVfWwnn7SkaxoDB5GQbwCbxf45CPWzmojqzVl1sCGjnFkeU1xqZqdopg/s320/IMG5469.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous ramed noir fashion prints!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKKMKkCs8yY7VXEBwMvi2OUehxF5dk4sHOqA1z-reA8dyvNFEHgZ7CsamgNXflomlVMpcTsg8Q9AYDncdc9Igz19pZbU8cOCNqtsMjg4tZGMr8UfOIcXM30h3pvnkoyOqCrlHZasjLQ/s1600/IMG5468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKKMKkCs8yY7VXEBwMvi2OUehxF5dk4sHOqA1z-reA8dyvNFEHgZ7CsamgNXflomlVMpcTsg8Q9AYDncdc9Igz19pZbU8cOCNqtsMjg4tZGMr8UfOIcXM30h3pvnkoyOqCrlHZasjLQ/s320/IMG5468.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dresses and shoes galore! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-lW_DV6LZXs3RzmXfxFtYb-0zeKhKOscYXcZy9hlWrndCYUG2Oeer8g-v4EJb7abqvWeGe8U-EUrFff_kqw1QCe1D9IOPDBtQLMX10EUJnuVJ_OjgXsh3ZSYJTcwCmynR_updXfZBA/s1600/IMG5471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-lW_DV6LZXs3RzmXfxFtYb-0zeKhKOscYXcZy9hlWrndCYUG2Oeer8g-v4EJb7abqvWeGe8U-EUrFff_kqw1QCe1D9IOPDBtQLMX10EUJnuVJ_OjgXsh3ZSYJTcwCmynR_updXfZBA/s320/IMG5471.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic jewelry candy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhaPFgJ4nXQWTtuc1fr1uG0I3tBoHdRARQMbvURF23NW8-FHgQaGx393g-WVJ2m4MRRKOOtprn4hII9_F4WVTSmiYiRuHrVDPQ1gmXdgNu5d51Ap0xCaTp0y2R6wjtHYUwybT_cSMHg/s1600/IMG5466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhaPFgJ4nXQWTtuc1fr1uG0I3tBoHdRARQMbvURF23NW8-FHgQaGx393g-WVJ2m4MRRKOOtprn4hII9_F4WVTSmiYiRuHrVDPQ1gmXdgNu5d51Ap0xCaTp0y2R6wjtHYUwybT_cSMHg/s320/IMG5466.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have no idea who that woman is....</td></tr>
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Meanwhile in the Oregon District.... <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSZ2YsdIwCfSr3bOhPdlh4dmmfjUetWdMUZBXjm4m53qoRjFWJx8lrG-JMtUCQg2I15_zlVkK5lYusWfThTqWAOghl853mxU79-bk2DcB3IKHTuUra_s0PDbAWbT1dr-bixgrUy0KmQ/s1600/IMG5615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSZ2YsdIwCfSr3bOhPdlh4dmmfjUetWdMUZBXjm4m53qoRjFWJx8lrG-JMtUCQg2I15_zlVkK5lYusWfThTqWAOghl853mxU79-bk2DcB3IKHTuUra_s0PDbAWbT1dr-bixgrUy0KmQ/s320/IMG5615.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From vintage pillow hats to retro inspired newsboy caps, newly opened hat shop called Brim has treats for everyone of distinctive taste. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxaT-zr2K1Ns2VDy2hFMhs5JLH63LJ4IpqG_c0MFoKY0jF8QIHwOUjk5-ZUAjqaltPNmaEB-IhZ51EBJzGDZl6yNrkZud5dr2cJu_2mGjmaDVgXhmkM194XbanhlhCWugWPoH_vxi0g/s1600/IMG5618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxaT-zr2K1Ns2VDy2hFMhs5JLH63LJ4IpqG_c0MFoKY0jF8QIHwOUjk5-ZUAjqaltPNmaEB-IhZ51EBJzGDZl6yNrkZud5dr2cJu_2mGjmaDVgXhmkM194XbanhlhCWugWPoH_vxi0g/s320/IMG5618.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A wide range of floral adorned bucket hats & colorful newsboy caps line the shelves.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEht51rp3MqHqhhrRr0Wx3__NUozm_Mda1hyoDDdmW9RjZiwbVrNRphl2S7C34D7dTBXo9KGsx6CC1JeXktf5UC-WbS9Zx4mhWOMqOV36ntqi-7xDENVx9OSetGb9UP11V3wnssgMxaA/s1600/IMG5616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEht51rp3MqHqhhrRr0Wx3__NUozm_Mda1hyoDDdmW9RjZiwbVrNRphl2S7C34D7dTBXo9KGsx6CC1JeXktf5UC-WbS9Zx4mhWOMqOV36ntqi-7xDENVx9OSetGb9UP11V3wnssgMxaA/s320/IMG5616.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This dark purple hat with three flowers especially caught my attention.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOj9eC_mVlcA8qaHyPvHx5ohMXuxBLsTf67rHsl_kJVh0FD4R2iakacd85G2jKorh50RQqH-CXTtnL8II8AsUaKSZ-6-wC-l7Z1lIwud6E5mXqRxYGGVA0gIoat8z-fNnScKaTN0CcbQ/s320/IMG5619.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the little hats with veils, stripes, and polka dot designs make for amazing conversation starting!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Two doors away and next to Gallery 510, I met Bambi and her gang of misfits at their awesome shop, <a href="http://www.eclectic-essentials.com/">Eclectic Essentials</a>. They too have nifty gifts of elegance, prestige, and creative spirits for vintage hunters in every nook and cranny hanging or displayed against charming, red-bricked walls. Original art including my friend, Terry Hitt, handmade jewelry, ceramics, weavings, furniture, wearable art, and other awe-amazing eye candy fill the negative spaces with heart and warm, down to earth soul. <br />
With such kind, humorous individuals, I hope this place stays rooted forever in the Oregon!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0a-m9Gy5RFuM_y14hKjo1u0WDvOCevtqs7w_4odVTFC3zWcsh2d13G0rEwuvOPtPBI4IwEyyfuk3L-tHsmrRs9t-uFUMQ4edAId3qzruu_JDwVm4KDRySDwfPDczYW-uEsHpJ6QO-Ig/s1600/IMG5620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0a-m9Gy5RFuM_y14hKjo1u0WDvOCevtqs7w_4odVTFC3zWcsh2d13G0rEwuvOPtPBI4IwEyyfuk3L-tHsmrRs9t-uFUMQ4edAId3qzruu_JDwVm4KDRySDwfPDczYW-uEsHpJ6QO-Ig/s320/IMG5620.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An adorable owl drawing made my insides "hoot" in a wild flutter.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3XCKMK_ewkEZPcriCR1xOFgwU5z8EbIpas4ic1Byq35UpTN806LLiKMTvo2oSD__IvPYKC0vPGAIoF284LnVkbUaScQeXjJo2TIkAs6goQ-8clhOFGY6tJrB5KxWsrQvt9EMirMvew/s1600/IMG5621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU3XCKMK_ewkEZPcriCR1xOFgwU5z8EbIpas4ic1Byq35UpTN806LLiKMTvo2oSD__IvPYKC0vPGAIoF284LnVkbUaScQeXjJo2TIkAs6goQ-8clhOFGY6tJrB5KxWsrQvt9EMirMvew/s320/IMG5621.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These framed miniature portraits coordinate effectively against the old, red brick.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHKhTcKp-kcQhMRBi2nuGyvobtdc24rGHnDYZi6rwFZtXSwfiOP-pS0uT_8f8C4G_d1rLQv0fWUjZInKUT5ILRVCId7BtfvfMBniUdDCEes6zi-Aa1MqXjvL7nDZo0g0ZQ5nCGx_I0Q/s1600/IMG5623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHKhTcKp-kcQhMRBi2nuGyvobtdc24rGHnDYZi6rwFZtXSwfiOP-pS0uT_8f8C4G_d1rLQv0fWUjZInKUT5ILRVCId7BtfvfMBniUdDCEes6zi-Aa1MqXjvL7nDZo0g0ZQ5nCGx_I0Q/s320/IMG5623.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't know if these actually work, but don't they look terrific?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hc6_x0g1W8zh5_rqkeIoDJwLmWCBaSWmCV1SfhKN2Lf4f4kZ535Y_c0ZA-DKb89hBofcmoZi-lNKJ1SlGWpWgo-t9fixbnmK9b0xJGjdrLRtbFzqwfLe3kuq_LuSlqtlqgU_GBIuhA/s1600/IMG5625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hc6_x0g1W8zh5_rqkeIoDJwLmWCBaSWmCV1SfhKN2Lf4f4kZ535Y_c0ZA-DKb89hBofcmoZi-lNKJ1SlGWpWgo-t9fixbnmK9b0xJGjdrLRtbFzqwfLe3kuq_LuSlqtlqgU_GBIuhA/s320/IMG5625.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutesy over the shoulder strap bags!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jJ7m3VX276N8AO5dsYCmM5ZhosvWCjiVgo2oJ9aEmtA02xb5QPLYgeOQvZ_npPY72uwu2Cu2tYJVBchALUu3oj3xtiIf-MhOYR7kObKZQAOOCyZeUWhqgQG3LL-txtApOHbL9SLqGw/s1600/IMG5622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jJ7m3VX276N8AO5dsYCmM5ZhosvWCjiVgo2oJ9aEmtA02xb5QPLYgeOQvZ_npPY72uwu2Cu2tYJVBchALUu3oj3xtiIf-MhOYR7kObKZQAOOCyZeUWhqgQG3LL-txtApOHbL9SLqGw/s320/IMG5622.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bambi's adorable bracelet!</td></tr>
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Random tidbits...</div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi96FtoEbg7rO1SWsBYPIV43xgVDOH2Ioo_h8QAwg4WxppbPrHNfq2B3Qxs4mshTPmJo_Pzls5Gze1CNIsV3oLhYR3sC1No0SjQBB15C6j1VBFC01uWGthlS7pHZxXnPALs7YjOa7aZOg/s1600/IMG5486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi96FtoEbg7rO1SWsBYPIV43xgVDOH2Ioo_h8QAwg4WxppbPrHNfq2B3Qxs4mshTPmJo_Pzls5Gze1CNIsV3oLhYR3sC1No0SjQBB15C6j1VBFC01uWGthlS7pHZxXnPALs7YjOa7aZOg/s320/IMG5486.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few Saturdays ago, I volunteered for the 9th Annual Adopt A Duck Regatta and had an awesome time watching 15,000 yellow rubber ducks wearing black sunglasses race in the Miami River to raise money for the United Rehabilitation Services of Dayton! Volunteer recruiter, Diane Osman sent me a very thoughtful email with these kind sentiments: "The regatta was a huge success, and we could not have done it without
the help of a lot of amazing volunteers like you. It was so nice to get
to know you, you are such a sweet person!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlSLccm087dIuOBxC2i2Tj-SE6pVZebQtCBGSOWkGc_vGmRjGiGaANnGpM8fu0ifcp2pZMcFPdvbdPGPAzwvWPn5iJiKuLjf6CaANIJK68aZG2FEsjiJhL2-Qgw0SEQ8bgVQ0WUisCQ/s1600/IMG5661.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlSLccm087dIuOBxC2i2Tj-SE6pVZebQtCBGSOWkGc_vGmRjGiGaANnGpM8fu0ifcp2pZMcFPdvbdPGPAzwvWPn5iJiKuLjf6CaANIJK68aZG2FEsjiJhL2-Qgw0SEQ8bgVQ0WUisCQ/s320/IMG5661.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Also very sad news to report, yesterday a certain someone celebrated her last twenty something birthday & shed actual tears while downing her sorrows in comforting chocolate cake with family.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmQE5TIGavh3ACDxi_a_1zAfz9Y8Z0pKf7-aH2n4yEwGKmEWHt5vBYD8-kGn8TeUkkgZWM2BFOx006YmtDwVox3KxX-G-eaf0WZ3v2pPOWHvqRqQ1gHLN7YCTIAf6K4oSoDVj2d8Y9g/s1600/IMG5666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmQE5TIGavh3ACDxi_a_1zAfz9Y8Z0pKf7-aH2n4yEwGKmEWHt5vBYD8-kGn8TeUkkgZWM2BFOx006YmtDwVox3KxX-G-eaf0WZ3v2pPOWHvqRqQ1gHLN7YCTIAf6K4oSoDVj2d8Y9g/s320/IMG5666.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The very sincere birthday card, Rob gave me! Best brother ever! <3><!--3--></3></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
29 had an amazing intro.</div>
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Mom, Robert, and Patrick came by for an intimate fun filled family party, scarfing down on homemade vegan spinach pesto pizza and cherry preserves, coconut, and almond topped chocolate cake that paired well with Trader Joe's Cherry Chocolate Chip soy milk ice cream. Also we played two hours of Taboo- an intense boys against the girls competition while Olivia came in and out meowing for free belly and back rubs.<br />
Enough with the slacking, I solemnly promise to post figurative drawings from the life anatomy class currently taking at Sinclair Community College and I'm excited to share in class gestures, past homework assignments, sketchbook insight and more. Besides burning off all those calories with my new jumprope, other events to blog about include upcoming pet portrait commissions, new poems/short stories, the Sinclair Community College Student Art Sale starting November 5th, and more...</div>
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Whew!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt5JpSVDX-XrXLGHfDJu2PJOzN41oNIwk_8sFEAv6eeqRgUN9ofltw4RvoLJUy4ZLyWUFZrIn280Hy2EVAwb1woFyIV5njxutciVoanr9CxCPOPtzYpKC4RmyoqynO-a36nZ8h6GHgA/s1600/IMG5665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt5JpSVDX-XrXLGHfDJu2PJOzN41oNIwk_8sFEAv6eeqRgUN9ofltw4RvoLJUy4ZLyWUFZrIn280Hy2EVAwb1woFyIV5njxutciVoanr9CxCPOPtzYpKC4RmyoqynO-a36nZ8h6GHgA/s320/IMG5665.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complimentary is always nice.</td></tr>
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Well, this is the last gratious shoutout- a very special thank you to Starbucks for the free birthday drink that has had me crazily hyper this afternoon. </div>
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Maybe I shouldn't have ordered the largest soy hot chocolate....</div>
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<img height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpEm1Fy9lT0iAjBWLec4_mbVBZbuLtyMP5o3m1WyQ4Z7sN3OAWKohMeUV0Rr0bCNTXHxDxy51EWLCvb_VUQDQG4haBQgKQAFhtO32pcnU9ewhl7deS2Dp2TaaOYnLwIY5ZNGKmvY7JA/s320/aw_bit_preview_postcard_flat_final.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 352px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 447px; visibility: hidden;" width="65" /> <br />
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Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-73579831602432035632012-08-24T00:29:00.000-07:002016-04-01T12:45:49.053-07:00Peace On Fifth's 1st Handmade Dayton Festival: The Experience<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpV2n_qmmfc5mdQdG9pl2TPI_cifndakDQSVCOKrIq_GYSg8aFHkR_zNwa78ntAwSU-EbXLtgZBtmj72YbMbb_-25yVEOC46Dwu5wgnoit1F3mTaRUx1_Jn9_D2AG20VpvUKJIxBLWYg/s1600/IMG5273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpV2n_qmmfc5mdQdG9pl2TPI_cifndakDQSVCOKrIq_GYSg8aFHkR_zNwa78ntAwSU-EbXLtgZBtmj72YbMbb_-25yVEOC46Dwu5wgnoit1F3mTaRUx1_Jn9_D2AG20VpvUKJIxBLWYg/s320/IMG5273.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the midst of selling art at the first ever Handmade Dayton Festival at Peace On Fifth in the Oregon District.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a lovely Friday morning- not too hot with a a slight modest chill in the air as I walked the twenty minute trek to the Oregon District, feeling confident in 2 1/2 inch heels and purple black heart tights.<br />
At Peace On Fifth, a unique retail shop/boutique selling goods, clothing, and accessories strictly from slave free parts of the world that has been in Dayton for nine months now, London Coe, the lovely, vibrant shop owner has transformed her store into Handmade Dayton Festival. <br />
Five locally owned shops of art, jewelry, handmade soaps, and more, each vendor is separated by a leisure amount of space, not large enough that one feels divided, but enough so that we all could have conversations and get to know each other and our personal wares. <br />
I had a long wooden table and rolling rack, taking only a few moments to have art displayed and quickly got acquainted with my "neighbor" Nicole of Dirty Chix Soaps. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVe2X8wjQplqkv9O5Us0wyWO-QvICaFgKbTppbtbQMF2I3JpY8-rRFieYKmcAVvq9RUkHLFNThGN1MzsWz02_CO-lLC8ZXC5puhXUJTKmnOD0ggbOxyzb-8PPPlsqTSYHS16CJkOPk_w/s1600/IMG5271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVe2X8wjQplqkv9O5Us0wyWO-QvICaFgKbTppbtbQMF2I3JpY8-rRFieYKmcAVvq9RUkHLFNThGN1MzsWz02_CO-lLC8ZXC5puhXUJTKmnOD0ggbOxyzb-8PPPlsqTSYHS16CJkOPk_w/s320/IMG5271.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My drawings, paintings, and mini magnets are laid out on a cute rubber duck vintage cloth. Remember it was the $2 thrift shop find? :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQGSZgz9tyk-AVdcreVY3gALHyznR5ZbyB2p_VILB8qOfha0EwmbzvCKNqMxeGTQzh6e1Iv1kVJPL9v58UZc2-1OX7ydNNxkqsfuSlcsnBbe6S3T37SYaQYKr0O3NkXeqwKYZTEeqRPA/s1600/IMG5272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQGSZgz9tyk-AVdcreVY3gALHyznR5ZbyB2p_VILB8qOfha0EwmbzvCKNqMxeGTQzh6e1Iv1kVJPL9v58UZc2-1OX7ydNNxkqsfuSlcsnBbe6S3T37SYaQYKr0O3NkXeqwKYZTEeqRPA/s320/IMG5272.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The three acrylic paintings at the top right are the "Head Cover" series.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-hLycbeo8yk2a4DNwC-1-TRy-YKwYaou__fLzewjkP1e3dMqpX9vEYyxki7DE3QxCQuZ2nlvQg2KP09ocftinT0vqEAe15i8iqmSKupZ3oswa5tSTCnMcSzjdX3hxiyTTok84k0yPw/s1600/IMG5265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-hLycbeo8yk2a4DNwC-1-TRy-YKwYaou__fLzewjkP1e3dMqpX9vEYyxki7DE3QxCQuZ2nlvQg2KP09ocftinT0vqEAe15i8iqmSKupZ3oswa5tSTCnMcSzjdX3hxiyTTok84k0yPw/s320/IMG5265.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"The Ultimatum" colored pencil drawing from "Soapy Hair Stories: Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein" Prismacolor colored pencils series.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbd7GdDp7S0zGgMvbSmEKWkW4U-jeeWzLgnSJQgmSTnkJBUgvLI2YP85gjR1fGqqxcN7nB0IaTceWyZhTED1lWMIHaXPDgVhIBNpTQL9ZS78BlptUBh3DEAHzzrYf6a7C2o3tT8ULWZA/s1600/IMG5266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbd7GdDp7S0zGgMvbSmEKWkW4U-jeeWzLgnSJQgmSTnkJBUgvLI2YP85gjR1fGqqxcN7nB0IaTceWyZhTED1lWMIHaXPDgVhIBNpTQL9ZS78BlptUBh3DEAHzzrYf6a7C2o3tT8ULWZA/s320/IMG5266.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"To Relax Or Not To Relax" from "Soapy Hair Stories: Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein" Prismacolor colored pencils series.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSCoTU8x2DOMVF3UmptvUdSvKSGL4HSHQMuJO8WebFqYhV2MQ3qrqveyGZNd6ln-UG0oJG0VwzW-4Ks8OjNHHkZrCGuFQlQZ7ddIrePWJ4_MsTyK3fnLFQFTxbpwNCHPny6LHWlRszg/s1600/IMG5268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSCoTU8x2DOMVF3UmptvUdSvKSGL4HSHQMuJO8WebFqYhV2MQ3qrqveyGZNd6ln-UG0oJG0VwzW-4Ks8OjNHHkZrCGuFQlQZ7ddIrePWJ4_MsTyK3fnLFQFTxbpwNCHPny6LHWlRszg/s320/IMG5268.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"The American Hair Dream" from "Soapy Hair Stories: Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein" Prismacolor colored pencils series.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWiOJrm3mkBzOgUoQVBRLlyVuUsVhBuCyyq-QCUU1KAacSUdMogjM1hIGdGGl5qyoDX4DDtHAYq_OWOt4qPnZ1ggpF804Lqs1mnqE1_SpjNVC4A-CuJTCgOPI3KhIOzvYTZdJIFFaHA/s1600/IMG5269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWiOJrm3mkBzOgUoQVBRLlyVuUsVhBuCyyq-QCUU1KAacSUdMogjM1hIGdGGl5qyoDX4DDtHAYq_OWOt4qPnZ1ggpF804Lqs1mnqE1_SpjNVC4A-CuJTCgOPI3KhIOzvYTZdJIFFaHA/s320/IMG5269.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closeup of "American Hair Dream" from "Soapy Hair Stories: Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein" Prismacolor colored pencils series.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioiyBG93ZnvdglKewqBOqOXxiM_UyWEa5iM3NQsr1E_x16Cikk0dakwxu63lQ39lfDtbsoiMn5fOOcBrk5_1pJJb53VOQhhF-riOx2_SYgKuxDcj_D1lGPeTN_5uXoqthU6tRMtH9KeQ/s1600/IMG5270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioiyBG93ZnvdglKewqBOqOXxiM_UyWEa5iM3NQsr1E_x16Cikk0dakwxu63lQ39lfDtbsoiMn5fOOcBrk5_1pJJb53VOQhhF-riOx2_SYgKuxDcj_D1lGPeTN_5uXoqthU6tRMtH9KeQ/s320/IMG5270.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"The Straightened Mistake" from "Soapy Hair Stories: Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein" Prismacolor colored pencils series.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9Z__c-jpyIuGp5xkXZTfnq-IfsQWyH0-PxpyAY-A8vzhGAk7uByp4S3N1QGfWF3by1o5OBiUxKJac_ssfntqNYgilbetwP8lSyVXkzXuFGCj34p9peDAjw-VEZrhPFXkgj_EkZ-Yrg/s1600/IMG5276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9Z__c-jpyIuGp5xkXZTfnq-IfsQWyH0-PxpyAY-A8vzhGAk7uByp4S3N1QGfWF3by1o5OBiUxKJac_ssfntqNYgilbetwP8lSyVXkzXuFGCj34p9peDAjw-VEZrhPFXkgj_EkZ-Yrg/s320/IMG5276.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Across the street at Lucky's Taproom, a coveted soy burger topped with lettuce, tomato, vegan mozzarella, and avocado served with a side of fries engorged my huge lunch appetite.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsPl31Iqs3SGZvF7tyLD-hWdHsfLPIIp0UYy9asbqs6PFLd7Z4V6OGgXWU_B0yZAPz8fCkc76Hq6GHHl5JucT27RD3MYV2HNLw3r62khQ2j2VgF-Jc_BcoDSc-KFGMwhnLS6lsKpzmA/s1600/IMG5274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsPl31Iqs3SGZvF7tyLD-hWdHsfLPIIp0UYy9asbqs6PFLd7Z4V6OGgXWU_B0yZAPz8fCkc76Hq6GHHl5JucT27RD3MYV2HNLw3r62khQ2j2VgF-Jc_BcoDSc-KFGMwhnLS6lsKpzmA/s320/IMG5274.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">London gave every lady a piece of heaven to devour, very, very slowly. 70% dark chocolate imported from San Jose Del Tambo, Ecuador. A fair trade-slave free chocolate is the best chocolate- tastefully & morally speaking!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Such a wide range of talents on display and unique spirits filling a room of treasures to behold and purchased, it was an enjoyable experience to take and breathe in- from meeting female owners of their own respective creative endeavors and seeing strong, compassionate support from their husbands and adorable children- fun to watch!<br />
Incredibly humbling and thoughtful, it still makes me flush at the overwhelming positive feedback and kindness from strangers and these female vendors many of whom, I must keep in contact with. For having just joined the Handmade Dayton Etsy a while back, I am quite excited about all of the upcoming possibilities in store.<br />
My desire is to have business grow and succeed prosperously is a slow, but valued journey.<br />
Cannot wait to be back at Peace On Fifth again on Sunday and meeting more new people as well as urging friends/family to stop by. Heehee. :)<br />
If you're free for the weekend, please come out to the Oregon District where all of the excitement awaits! <br />
<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-25626672974601867012012-05-29T14:02:00.000-07:002012-05-30T18:43:44.651-07:00Chocolate Black: A Sneak Peak At My Illustrated Fairy Tale<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mirror, mirror on the wall,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Who is the most intelligent, most enthralling woman of them
all?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIj0MOaO4CXn1QsLtGwFo_ZzY0CBE0JQpaKpDBVqR2kDlp-l8oM36hV9T2VP60sFQgvgunEALHx8S5Yt9Hr4zkfGxr653uZiVPlvIc6kw_TtpGfeIrjc-VUnVUC06DDaMyGcqg4WmFKA/s1600/illustration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIj0MOaO4CXn1QsLtGwFo_ZzY0CBE0JQpaKpDBVqR2kDlp-l8oM36hV9T2VP60sFQgvgunEALHx8S5Yt9Hr4zkfGxr653uZiVPlvIc6kw_TtpGfeIrjc-VUnVUC06DDaMyGcqg4WmFKA/s320/illustration.jpg" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming Soon: Something Evil Is Watching....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My jealous, vile queen it is not you,
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For there is another lady is brighter, charming and new.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With skin as brown as chocolate silk,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Softer than satin, smoother than milk. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 1.25in;">
Innocent doe eyes darker than charcoal smoke, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 1.25in;">
Hair cropped and curled hidden under cloak.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Red, full and plump are bow tipped lips </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stealing smiles and making entire kingdom’s heart flips</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Matching perfectly carved, heart shaped face,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 135.0pt 267.0pt;">
Gently curved, selfless
compassion, and lithe grace. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 135.0pt 267.0pt;">
It is the divine princess
Chocolate Black,</div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">And she has many fine qualities that of which you lack.”</span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK94GppZhJVur7FbIsUxUrlzhH9VKcMIHBBmH8Aq9O2n4t6I6z1IfqAVx3QQ2JNady4_aDchQ9Ffhxwyad53xHdQPfyE1t6yVhPbnS4lv6aOCDC73t2cpBO-GbbXEwIBlX46bomi9I1g/s1600/IMG2829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK94GppZhJVur7FbIsUxUrlzhH9VKcMIHBBmH8Aq9O2n4t6I6z1IfqAVx3QQ2JNady4_aDchQ9Ffhxwyad53xHdQPfyE1t6yVhPbnS4lv6aOCDC73t2cpBO-GbbXEwIBlX46bomi9I1g/s320/IMG2829.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFumC-8ECyv57uLGwyYDi0eBGKJYGIK511zES2rUgMl1qcA40WUwiotQtcBEcHGXHKxncWm846BVLTHeJS8c1attJCpcqgLMGG_o8r2NMMZa9v92esYVOjZF2UlcDQgYL4Q45E4Rx6ew/s1600/sketch+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFumC-8ECyv57uLGwyYDi0eBGKJYGIK511zES2rUgMl1qcA40WUwiotQtcBEcHGXHKxncWm846BVLTHeJS8c1attJCpcqgLMGG_o8r2NMMZa9v92esYVOjZF2UlcDQgYL4Q45E4Rx6ew/s320/sketch+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAKT5CWiE9TG5Ep63nslBipfdYJBx21CCkyrTenCG4zEy2ajDKPlEVhH_dsBif4HTEic_GwZZMOl0pZ5CPVcNa4pudMObgZRjUH3ny4bKuKIyRKcpf2LdTqF35Zp02MBhS_T3qFaWAA/s1600/sketch+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAKT5CWiE9TG5Ep63nslBipfdYJBx21CCkyrTenCG4zEy2ajDKPlEVhH_dsBif4HTEic_GwZZMOl0pZ5CPVcNa4pudMObgZRjUH3ny4bKuKIyRKcpf2LdTqF35Zp02MBhS_T3qFaWAA/s320/sketch+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">This is only a draft.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">With all of the live action Snow White movies coming out (even a Disney cancellation), an idea just popped into brain to create a version of this fairy tale that not only showcases the beauty of minority, but strength of character and attributes that go beyond this idea of jealousy over a "pretty face" and being cleaning lady for a house of seven men while chirping to forest animals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">Just trying to reconstruct notion that besides innocence and beauty, Chocolate Black actually defines integrity and something special, remarkable even. I want little girls to appreciate their uniqueness, their ingenuity when others don't understand or value such a difference. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">So for this entire summer, I've embarked on this project of penning "Chocolate Black" and illustrating her poignant story. In this first sketch (Prismacolor pencils on Bristol, much later will use turpentine to spread color), it reveals a shocking twist and if you haven't guessed it now, eventually it will unravel in the next few sketches. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">Orientation is wrong- want every last page to be horizontal, perhaps may create borders (not sure yet) and am currently looking at different Gothic styled fonts for inspiration for this new fairy tale.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">More details and illustrations coming soon...</span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHklUzx-_krE8V28oC55ji0DCHmqOJhdmLxBjVyE27D9R-pj381GumXYNRB0U6xHOqs5qULCH6PcnB29oKqw041_p5izDeeg_vrCW72dwNlvYktEdCRpM0RDdF32Kd3JfehyCzSo2t4w/s1600/me+drawing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHklUzx-_krE8V28oC55ji0DCHmqOJhdmLxBjVyE27D9R-pj381GumXYNRB0U6xHOqs5qULCH6PcnB29oKqw041_p5izDeeg_vrCW72dwNlvYktEdCRpM0RDdF32Kd3JfehyCzSo2t4w/s320/me+drawing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span>Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-33982418605176793502012-04-20T18:15:00.000-07:002016-04-01T12:41:28.251-07:00Soapy Hair Stories: Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsblocwoWijRzWHbf1zBJRqy6oQAwn8f4d7JrtSTbDPXGE8lL1L6Csg8FWbRnKT8pPkbjCcolK4PmGV9AN6mvf-eS2pOTZ5EwrmLHnaqz3iK68KkBZzN0fbtOc4vcuJisZnodSM3cKXQ/s1600/Susan's+Boyfriend+Loves+Her+Afro.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsblocwoWijRzWHbf1zBJRqy6oQAwn8f4d7JrtSTbDPXGE8lL1L6Csg8FWbRnKT8pPkbjCcolK4PmGV9AN6mvf-eS2pOTZ5EwrmLHnaqz3iK68KkBZzN0fbtOc4vcuJisZnodSM3cKXQ/s320/Susan's+Boyfriend+Loves+Her+Afro.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close view of <i>Susan's Boyfriend Loves Her Afro</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's quite an over dramatic notion- the way women obsess about beauty- whether it's makeup, body image, and age. It has gotten to the point of shallow ridiculousness due to media ploy. Yet hair roots are another story entirely
nowadays, especially African Americans fighting a raging battle between
staying naturally beautiful or getting the sleek, kink stripping perm.<br />
Keep in mind, men never have to obsess with image as much as women do. They're allowed to keep their hair in any way, in any style while women resort to spending tons on weaves, relaxers, perms, and extensions to appear "attractive" and in turn, cruelly punishing natural sisters for not following suit.<br />
Based
on true accounts of a turbulent upbringing (was given the ugly nickname
"Carpet" in school), the tragedy of African American women despising
free style wearers and going as far as publicly criticizing and
embarrassing them is a sickened hatred has always confused me. This
destructive mentality of "nappy is ugly" and "African roots are
shameful!" are the basis of this work. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDAxsy1oB6AQl8wgrcV2tcU8lAX1dTulxkgVSl_NPgcJVG2NhoQLs_yXUh8ik8wSzBcU7emOS-MMwC2xqP_8fNPlywc3ahyphenhyphen614UFhDCdj6PuS0xsond9bwCjR355Y2zX6_C1gLGWBGQ/s1600/An+Unrelaxing+Aftermath.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDAxsy1oB6AQl8wgrcV2tcU8lAX1dTulxkgVSl_NPgcJVG2NhoQLs_yXUh8ik8wSzBcU7emOS-MMwC2xqP_8fNPlywc3ahyphenhyphen614UFhDCdj6PuS0xsond9bwCjR355Y2zX6_C1gLGWBGQ/s320/An+Unrelaxing+Aftermath.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Straightened Mistake</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yet, I wanted to soften the harsh blow, put a
lighthearted spin to the grueling events related to hair trials from my
own personal experience. Two compelling books also came to aide-
<i>Tenderheaded: A Comb Bending Collection of Hair Stories </i>edited by
Juliette Harris and Pamela Johnson and <i>Naked: Black Women Bare All About
Their Skin, Hair, Lips, and Other Parts</i> by Akiba Solomon and Ayana
Byrd. <br />
<span itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><a class="authorName" href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/216573.Sonia_Sanchez" itemprop="url"><span itemprop="name"></span></a></span>Now soap operas are filled with intense, fluffy drama- always characters plotting and scheming to tear apart loving relationships.<br />
Isn't this kind of conflict similar to hair? <br />
With deceitful media and cosmetics companies selling a specific ideology that excludes afros and kinky enjoyment, there is a such thing as peer pressure.<br />
Playing
with this very cheesy theme, I used iconic pop artist, Roy Lichtenstein
as an informative guide in creative process. So I appropriated his
original concept, but ethnicized his traditional blond characters crying
over boyfriends. In <i>Soapy Hair Stories</i>, these women are teary
eyed over dreadful root decisions and consequences. Taking the
seriousness of hair issues in graphically humorous circumstance, in
every composition, pictured crying and looking like downright
pathetic basket cases, these women are simply detailed in varied states
of distress- passionate joy in
<i>Susan's Boyfriend Loves Her Afro</i>, regret of a relaxer aftermath
in <i>The Straightened Mistake</i>, or agony in <i>To Relax Or Not to Relax</i>.<br />
Prismacolor
colored pencils were another challenging aspect, especially with
pressing down hard on the surface, trying to cover as much ground as
possible, and constant sharpening, but I bravely managed to succeed my
goal. <br />
However, since I found myself enjoying the subject matter, printmaking may be the next step. For the feedback has been astounding and informative, giving me ideas on taking this concept further.<br />
<br />
<i>Soapy Hair Stories</i> is universal though the characters are minorities, relating to just about anyone.<br />
Long, straight, short, curly, kinky, nappy..... every women either passionately dislikes or ardently loves her hair. <br />
<br />
Hopefully, more than anything, people with hair shame will not
hide underneath the guise of hurt and anguish, but relish in the joy
that Mother Nature created.<br />
Laugh, cry, and be emotional, but love the value on your head too! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQo7p7CtNvyzEo3ta2B1FnEEScqZVeMDlKh6Xd6lN4VjrnxlRv-eLATkK-6vNDYGSDOdfsLZcn-P1YjnJCu7xNyt2ZCfHf5K1YqGKjAffoK6-y2xj0C3wpnnxZkqpmWjtQkWDDoGNhw/s1600/To+Relax+or+Not+to+Relax.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQo7p7CtNvyzEo3ta2B1FnEEScqZVeMDlKh6Xd6lN4VjrnxlRv-eLATkK-6vNDYGSDOdfsLZcn-P1YjnJCu7xNyt2ZCfHf5K1YqGKjAffoK6-y2xj0C3wpnnxZkqpmWjtQkWDDoGNhw/s320/To+Relax+or+Not+to+Relax.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>To Relax Or Not To Relax</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Soapy Hair Stories</i>: <i>Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein</i>, the
new body of six Prismacolor pencil drawings is up at Cachet G International
Boutique and Gallery in downtown Dayton with the official reception
being the next upcoming First Friday (May 4th!).<br />
Special vegan treats
will be on hand from local bakery, Thistle. <br />
Please come out!<br />
It'll be fun and downright amazing, I guarantee it. <br />
<br />
<br />
Cachet G is located on 133 E. Third St, Dayton, OH, 45402 and <i>Soapy Hair Stories</i>: <i>Appropriations of Roy Lichtenstein</i> is up until May 8, 2012.Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-38925112182925344342012-04-17T01:46:00.001-07:002012-04-17T12:28:35.354-07:00Pariah<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mbkentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/pariah-movie_thumb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://www.mbkentertainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/pariah-movie_thumb3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
With April being National Poetry Month,<i> Parish</i> picked a
convenient time to come to The Neon Movies.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An astounding, vibrant piece of finely weaved storytelling and thoughtfully spoken artistry, this independent film centers on Brooklyn high school teen, Alike (pronounced ah-lik-e) an
exceptionally good student and aspiring poet from a hard working middle class
family. In her underground world, the shy girl hangs out with bold, outspoken,
Laura, who has already proudly come out and lives with her sister.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alike, however, is much too afraid of such honesty and chooses
to entrap herself with dual identities- switching from hood gear to chic fashion, she is trying to do right by parents, Arthur and Audrey, but it's her little sister, Sharonda that begins suspecting the truth first. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Filled with hilarity, wit, and
compassion, viewers follow Alike’s course of adolescence as she tries
unsuccessfully talking to women, tests out her first strap on with Laurie’s
aide, writes poetry in a colorful composition notebook, and privately shares her talents with the encouraging English teacher.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All the while Audrey is desperate to make Alike appear
more feminine and attractive to boys and wishing Alike to stop
hanging around Laura, someone she clearly detests. Yet Arthur
turns a blind eye, seeming not to give a care about his overbearing wife’s feelings and accepts Alike "flaws" and all. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.filmindependent.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/pariah2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://www.filmindependent.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/pariah2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bina and Alike in the stages of love.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fed up with Laura, an interfering Audrey wants Alike to be friends with "normal" girl, Bina. But unbeknownst to Audrey, Bina shows the kind of interest in Alike that would have had her head spinning. A smart, intelligent, and worldly artistic individual, she shares a lot of compelling ideas and music with Alike, striking up a friendship that soon blossoms into a refreshing first love.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spending time at clubs and critiquing each others writings, things were so blissful.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, her immediate discarding of their relationship
the morning after was quite detrimental and heartbreaking. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alike breaks down, guttural and hurt by the strange 180, but sadly has no one to tell and transforms that anguish into poetry. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.moviefanatic.com/images/gallery/kim-wayans-and-adepero-oduye-in-pariah_499x343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://static.moviefanatic.com/images/gallery/kim-wayans-and-adepero-oduye-in-pariah_499x343.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alike with Audrey during happier times</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once Alike finally confesses to her parents, hell breaks loose tenfold. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the very turbulent scene, Sharonda pleas with Alike not
to get in between the battle of their parents who are loudly arguing about her
sexual orientation, but valiant Alike bravely wages on and puts up with an
emotionally distressed Audrey who then verbally attacks and violently beats
her revulsion into Alike.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After that climatic horror, things change.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://moviereviewwarehouse.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/pariah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://moviereviewwarehouse.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/pariah.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alike and Arthur after that horrible scene.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With a condoning mother seeing lesbianism as a treacherous
disease deemed unlovable, Arthur is the exact opposite. A man harboring his
own secrets, he seemed to have always known that Alike was a unique case. Not
due to her escalating intelligence and her disdain for pretty clothing. Their
relationship is much closer and because of this, it makes his understanding of
Alike’s lifestyle believable.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fif.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/image/mediafile/1316719191-4abf2c5f24922acf8d86e58d3e005d9b/350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://fif.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/image/mediafile/1316719191-4abf2c5f24922acf8d86e58d3e005d9b/350.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharonda loves her sister no matter what!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Laura’s own story, she also has a mother disgusted by
her choices. Looking disgusted, she makes no move to be affectionate and slams
the door in Laura’s face even as Laura expresses joy over passing the GED. This
makes her friendship to Alike all the more genuine. Their mothers' dislike for their lifestyle </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Though she is an active flirt and very popular with the
ladies, it’s perfectly clear that Laurie needs constant companionship and love
and once she sees Alike having fun with Bina, her jealousy comes clawing
out. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A worthy note of mention, Dee Rees has done an
exceptional job of not only showcasing strong female relationships, but also
revealing the blunt shift that occurs when weakened and severed, especially the
natural bond of a mother and daughter. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0f_Kh_G6z8qst85jtVZRQwCM39RJfaq3cRCJGd2OqPi-bU0QiCf-vttMB-yYYZwyLP0c9AgLXqaPq6PnyNAEZq4AON0xbKA-TY5kEokkGTjMcBx6C2RUkI6pwGAC3iX0IBTADcKuM9w/s1600/14075966_ori.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0f_Kh_G6z8qst85jtVZRQwCM39RJfaq3cRCJGd2OqPi-bU0QiCf-vttMB-yYYZwyLP0c9AgLXqaPq6PnyNAEZq4AON0xbKA-TY5kEokkGTjMcBx6C2RUkI6pwGAC3iX0IBTADcKuM9w/s320/14075966_ori.jpg" width="227" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lovely, talented Adepero Oduye.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Adepero Oduye’s portrayal is touching, riveting, and
beautiful as she plays a character struggling with the great divide, breaks
free from timidity, and falls in love. Breathing sophisticated complexion into Alike, Oduye is divine
poetry in motion, expelling words articulately and with tenderly, perfected bravado. From the moment she tearfully tells her mother she loves her
and that end scene on the bus, Oduye showcases Alike’s proud acceptance into a
promising future that only she can control.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now this is the kind of African American role that the
Academy is deadest against honoring. A woman who doesn’t allow herself to
repressed by negativity and has the strength to move forward to better
opportunities with talent driving her. To the conservative viewer- it’s
crucial. Not only is this young African American woman smart and gifted, she
happens to be gay. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Definitely robbed of an Oscar nod, here's hoping that Oduye nabs another pivotal role that garners attention from the snubbing Hollywood elite.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The rest of the cast played their parts commendably, especially the incredible Kim Wayans, a famed comedian utterly unrecognizable in a very dramatic role. The polar opposite of Monique's character in <i>Precious</i>, Wayans was marvelous as the cruelly ashamed, Bible clinging mother.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CDHoBgqLOu36GaNTeXOBvHWU8xF2-Jkp7nkq46SeqsbrzuxnVpKwj26PeBSQNWACFoducyuYH4mSf4NcrP0AIb8tHiaMWf7coRDE9huMBeatqi7q6C6r-A2YOk3MHvnJvni3XkxZO6g/s1600/pariah-2011-movie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CDHoBgqLOu36GaNTeXOBvHWU8xF2-Jkp7nkq46SeqsbrzuxnVpKwj26PeBSQNWACFoducyuYH4mSf4NcrP0AIb8tHiaMWf7coRDE9huMBeatqi7q6C6r-A2YOk3MHvnJvni3XkxZO6g/s320/pariah-2011-movie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura trying to change up Alike's fashion sense!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In terms of story holes,<i> Pariah</i> does have its little flaws.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alike delivers two powerful poems like a heavenly
prophet. Thirsting for more, especially with Bina making suggestions to open
mic nights and poetry clubs, there was an expectancy to seeing Alike come
further out of her shell and share her gifts to an audience that actually wants
to hear fresh talent onstage. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alas no such scenes came into play.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What of Laura and Alike's relationship?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do they come together as a couple and bond even further? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What secrets was Arthur keeping under tabs? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A scene of him on the phone and then changing into a silk black shirt while chatting to Alike seemed oddly questionable. With them being so close, one imagined that he would voice his affair to Alike.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now if it were with another man, Audrey would never be the same...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5hSt6US-4l75eNpl4EX4LwDuveWTl6PDD3JWlEilBCixYPTznT-4pwneaLYhHoHFUArN_VGVodRPI2hpcHQa_VIPV9vocWPvAeAVtswjjrz-wawZV2tN4wbXSnfgWnOmV72WAekFGw/s1600/950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5hSt6US-4l75eNpl4EX4LwDuveWTl6PDD3JWlEilBCixYPTznT-4pwneaLYhHoHFUArN_VGVodRPI2hpcHQa_VIPV9vocWPvAeAVtswjjrz-wawZV2tN4wbXSnfgWnOmV72WAekFGw/s320/950.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Actress Adepero Oduye, <i>Pariah </i>Writer/Director, Dee Rees, and Actress Kim Wayans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I greatly appreciate the woman’s voice and their courage to
tell such a profound story. Hoping that Dee Rees continues on the path of
enlightening women and minorities to come forth and share their creative
vision, bring their enriching narratives to independent screens and beyond. Let the age old statistics of white men being sole judge and victor be a thing of the past.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's been high time for segregation in the film honor system to be buried. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women have more than breasts to bare, they have vocal hearts and fervent souls to unleash and set free. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Pariah</i> passionately illustrates that though the uncertain future can be
filled with failures, heartbreak, and disappointments, there are rewards
despite the ugly, gritty turmoil that comes and goes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That wherein lies life's bittersweet poetry. </div>Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-31791875234981159062012-04-16T18:19:00.003-07:002012-04-16T19:19:21.483-07:00The Yellow Trolley Chronicles: Synopsis Update<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Yellow Trolley Chronicles</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpjX4yerXcWauqiEGX76FOPb8_X-alUq6UnD9JdzttdmpQf7XhkbBJYWxocL4VQnwztnNBFQJRxWjJvWYyYgmfCLeF2JyoUf5Lr21fEfP1osS9H3ndhy1V1Y0sZbRxi9h1ERf8ipSaw/s1600/bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpjX4yerXcWauqiEGX76FOPb8_X-alUq6UnD9JdzttdmpQf7XhkbBJYWxocL4VQnwztnNBFQJRxWjJvWYyYgmfCLeF2JyoUf5Lr21fEfP1osS9H3ndhy1V1Y0sZbRxi9h1ERf8ipSaw/s320/bus.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Set in fictional Montgomery, Ohio, <i>The Good Girl </i>is about shy artist, dreamer, library aide, devout church goer, and avid bus rider,
Josephine Huffman, a young, African American woman destined to go places. With low self
esteem, a horrible upbringing, and addictive thirst for living vicariously in
romance novels, her world takes a downward spin just as she’s on the brink of
discovering her true worth and enjoying a sweet, blossoming companionship with Mick, a trolley bus driver who sees something special in her.
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The Bad Seed</i> has Josephine taking art to places she always dreamed of. Finally attending art school in a new city and learning refreshing aspects about
her beloved subject, she finds herself torn and isolated from peers and faculty while struggling to find creative identity. With studies not being
difficult enough, commitment to an abusive, tumultuous relationship has her tasting darker
sides of life, but a fiercely determined heart cannot let go of the simplest
truth as her secret friendship to Mick continues deepening.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The Best One</i> concludes Josephine’s poetic journey through art and life. Finally, she bravely emerges away from inflicting abuse and towards Mick, the man she has
loved forever, but he has detrimental secrets of his own that could make or
break their impending happiness....</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Subject to change, of course.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stay tuned!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Still writing and writing and writing and writing!!!!! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-4301754256168099812012-03-29T08:00:00.002-07:002012-03-29T08:00:28.882-07:00Never Gonna Taste The Rainbow Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimTX_N9UoOnYYql6e6NsuCzroww0Ujl7ZAMUM8Zm_8xww5aqTX6yRy00lNmizJb-EL8fL0yrlBwirdF4O79okxwf3qjxA-bl5wGMZXZmbNcczswW98qtbcyVMKQN_A7OqNEVBP3_N9w/s1600/IMG636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimTX_N9UoOnYYql6e6NsuCzroww0Ujl7ZAMUM8Zm_8xww5aqTX6yRy00lNmizJb-EL8fL0yrlBwirdF4O79okxwf3qjxA-bl5wGMZXZmbNcczswW98qtbcyVMKQN_A7OqNEVBP3_N9w/s400/IMG636.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-63821650047801547742012-03-26T06:31:00.002-07:002012-03-26T07:29:14.960-07:00The Hedgehog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.circlecinema.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/The-Hedgehog-Poster-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.circlecinema.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/The-Hedgehog-Poster-1.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
Pretty glad that I spent a breezy afternoon to see the last showing of Mona Achache's "The Hedgehog" at the Neon Movies. A most delightful viewing treasure!<br />
Two seemingly different female protagonists center this French indie feature- Paloma, an intelligent, very gifted eleven-year-old planning suicide before her next birthday and there's Renée Michel, the fifty-year-old apartment super who when not cleaning up the mess of her aristocratic tenants devours chocolates and reads an illustrious world of classical books alongside a lazy fat cat.<br />
Feeling like the richly shallow life is as boring as a water filled goldfish bowl, Paloma's chaos includes an annoyed father who sweeps a secret cigarette habit under the rug, a neurotic mother who cries so often its pathetic, and a wickedly snobbish sister, Columbe while Ms. Michel enjoys solitary pleasure. <br />
Both women are seeking refuge- Paloma makes it her business to hide
anywhere in the apartment, filming every bit of the adults faults and
criticizing every crumbling flaw while Ms. Michel cloisters herself inside of an outer appearance, refusing to showcase an intellectually compelling mind. <br />
Enter the new neighbor, Mr. Ezo, a Japanese gentleman takes the small community by storm, seeming to elevate the status of the apartment. Intelligent, cultured, and very successful, he takes an immediate shine to Ms. Michel, thinking her to be of worthy pursuit, especially since she quotes Tolstoy and has a cat named Leo. Infectiously charming schoolgirl shyness makes Ms. Michel appear youthful and beguiling as she starts to break out of a vulnerable shell, allowing herself albeit a bit hesitantly to fully emerge into the refined world that Mr. Ezo generously shares with her. He literally takes her outside of the written word and into places she never expected, to unexplored delights of companionship and the blossoming elements of a refreshing kind of love. <br />
Though one could argue why would it take a man to show Ms. Michel the world? Couldn't she do that by herself? The answer is that she has already traveled far and wide, from coast to coast with the luxury of chocolate and Leo. In those volumes, rich in sophistication and cultivated gems, she has been everywhere and probably farther than most of her neighbors ever will.<br />
And the sad thing is that only Paloma and Mr. Ezo know that truth.<br />
With an observant Paloma stating to Mr. Ezo that she finds Ms. Michel to be just like a hedgehog, that underneath the concierge's "prickly" exterior, there's a soft, refined elegance. The young girl couldn't have been any more poetic, more concrete in her honest critique. Rather touching and eloquent, the most wonderful aspect was that Ms. Michel didn't have to be in the scene to hear it.<br />
Whenever they're together, it's relevant that Paloma and Ms. Michel have a very special relationship that is genuinely unique and rarely captured in cinema- one planning to die and the other starting to live vivaciously! <br />
In turn, it's Mr. Ezo and Paloma that make the once harsh, matronly looking Ms. Michel smile, interact, and become cordially inviting. <br />
Yet just on the brink of an amazing rebirth, a captivating transformation
that transcends physical appearance, tragedy strikes unexpectedly rocking the lives of the three intertwined individuals.<br />
Another liberating aspect of "The Hedgehog" is to see an adolescent girl embracing her creative genius, being energetic, taking action, and having a grand scheme of ideas. The camera pans majestically towards her wall of marvelous squares, making some of her black stroked marks come to life in short animation. One of the most memorable scenes is a pen study of Ms. Michel, a woman closeted in a well-refined atmosphere, a haven that is a most inspiring place to Paloma. That in which is turned into a little pop up gift, that immensely delights Ms. Michel. <br />
While her sister, Columbe is hellbent on not being on camera, perhaps not too eager to reveal her destructive and spoiled sensibilities, Ms. Michel is much braver, expelling the humility behind a grand facade, emptying the crevices of a barren heartbroken soul as Paloma records. The woman may have considered herself "fat, ugly, and lonely" but she enjoyed her modest seclusion- laughing and crying in between her rather blunt confessions. <br />
Overall, though with humorous quips and warm hearted charm, the reality of the situation in Paloma's case is that the obsession with suicide is quite a serious topic, especially when she intentionally poisons her sister's goldfish, an important iconic element in the film. It's maddening to contemplate, much less put forth into action as she was taking one pill a week from her mother and one has to wonder what is her next phase after the audience exits. What will she continue recording? Will her creative spirit dissipate? <br />
Such a wonderful film that raises pivotal questions about the deception of appearances, closely guarded enigmas, and the exteriors and interiors of the human psyche. Once the key to unlock the door is offered, would anyone even want to open that possibility or just walk away from curious intrigue and crush remarkable destiny?<br />
"The Hedgehog" states that it's okay to let someone in, that one doesn't always have to relish in loneliness. Happening in the least expected of circumstances, sometimes companionship can be the most awe striking phenomenon.<br />
In conclusion, giving a round of applause to Josiane Balasko and Garance La Guillermic for breathing life into Ms. Michel and Paloma. Their charismatic partnership just dazzles the screen! Will definitely look forward to viewing both of their past and future works- very commendable actresses! Kudos to Mona Achache for adapting Muriel Barbery's "The Elegance of the Hedgehog." Hopefully Achache has inspired other female directors and producers trying to carve out their place in this male dominated arena. She did a wonderful work, showing strengths, weaknesses, and vitality in these characters, creating a beautiful, humorous, sweetly engaging picture that I would watch over and over.<br />
Bravo Mademoiselle! <br />
<br />
<br />Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-5952191313434359742012-02-27T13:31:00.002-08:002012-02-27T21:56:34.784-08:00The REACH Conference<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was such an honor to be cordially invited to attend the 19th
Annual Reaching For Ethnic Awareness and Cultural Heritage Across Dayton
(REACH) Conference at Sinclair Community College on Friday February 24, 2012 and to see friends-
Willis "Bing" Davis, Betty Bolton, Leesa Haapapuro, James Pate, Kevin
Harris, and others in one room while simultaneously meeting new people!<br />
A
collaboration between Sinclair Community College, Ebonia Gallery, and
the Dayton Visual Arts Center (DVAC), REACH is a day long event
promoting "learning in the arts and humanities by creating an atmosphere
that will build respect, knowledge, appreciation, and understanding for
the area's culturally diverse populations."<br />
From 8AM to 4PM, this post entails eight hours of rich, implanted seeds that'll likely bear fruit to share.....<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful display right?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a lovely continental breakfast to fuel the body, REACH's
proceedings got started by co-coordinators Tess Little and Willis "Bing"
Davis.<br />
Two very, moving emotionally charged songs by the vocally
gifted gospel musician, Tanya Baker ousted everyone's early morning
tears. Such a treat for the ears and mind.... <br />
"I Am My Brother's
Keeper" by Dr. O'Dell Owens, a man from a religiously, strong family
upbringing and with many accomplishments underneath his belt, continued
the inspirational day, sharing thoughtful stories of overcoming
obstacles with strife and the importance of not only giving to the
community but to also to those in need. <br />
The Coroner's Report- a
very sad tale of a woman and her sister illustrated that tragedy can
strike in any given moment, at any time or place. Though arguments and
disagreements are quite natural, one cannot hold grudges and have hatred
in the heart.<br />
As it firmly states in the Bible: "Though shall
forgive those that trespass against us." These words are pure truth and
gospel. It's real.<br />
Always make amends and leave your family/friends/loves on good terms! <br />
In the bittersweet tale of O'Dell's Bells, a charity of which he
raises money for the Salvation Army, he had one year that he would never
forget, a story that demonstrated the difference between giving and
donating. A homeless man poured every bit of his entire jar into the
pot, bringing tears to not only O'Dell, but to the some of the
listeners, including me.<br />
It was utterly poignant, very moving
that a man sat in the wintry cold collecting coins that were meant for a
meal or a drink, but he selflessly gave that up for someone else. <br />
And the audience....<br />
They too had their souls to bear.<br />
Just incredible how people confessed burdens and opened up, heavily inspired by O'Dell's speech. <br />
Everyone has dreams.<br />
Anyone can talk.<br />
Anyone can listen. <br />
But O'Dell asks a roomful of individuals- "what are you going to do about it?"<br />
Take action. Help yourself. And help someone who can't for themselves.<br />
Ladies and gentlemen, that is the real secret to a rich, fulfilling life!<br />
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Linda Stein, my new inspiration, a visionary goddess, a most
awe-striking speaker of wisdom and truths extends the idea of not being
just labeled feminine and/or feminist (is that truly a bad word?), but
activist, artist, lesbian, hero, and androgynous are other ingredients
of her identity.<br />
Delivering an empowering message with humor and
serious intent about the roles of gender that opened the eyes to dawning
realization that more can be done to campaign this awareness, Stein
addresses the stereotypes and negative connotations associated with
being female- lower wages, lack of voice, and of being the "weaker" sex.<br />
Like minorities women are still the undervalued, under appreciated part of society.<br />
With
statistics staggering in every arena of the playing field from the
workplace to politics to film to art and beyond, women are often
subjected to painful discrimination and rejection due to "softening
sensibilities." Often not depicted as strong, courageous or intelligent,
women must play down these strengths because men only value such
characteristics in other men. <br />
Stein's sculpture and video work envisions the female as a
fiercely capable individual who knows her own prowess and needs no aide
of man to save her. Using the iconic superheroes such as Wonder Woman
and X-Men's Storm, the female is an independent warrior, not a docile
damsel in distress who twiddles her thumbs in wait while the man has all
the power.<br />
In closing, Stein gives valuable information-
Linda@LindaStein.com for all those who want to help address lack of
women's power with the artist and a link to ontheissuesmagazine.com- a place willing to give anyone equal opportunity to display their passionate prose!<br />
Both I will definitely look into. <br />
Lessons learned from her: bravery- proceeding in spite of fear! Do- don't ask! Proudly be who you are!<br />
After Stein, Bing Davis gave a presentation on "The Value of Knowing Self."<br />
Another man of humble beginnings and strong family ties, Davis's
life story is one of determination and will. With the desire to be an
artist calling out to him since childhood, the former basketball star
embarked on a great journey of creativity, of outreach, and of
perseverance, always utilizing that artistic strife and giving back to
those who needed aide. Though decorated with many awards, accolades,
honors, and degrees, he was kept the "dust on his shoes-" a picture of
modesty and humility, remembering the strength of his courageous, hard
working mother.<br />
Surprisingly enough, his video featured my friend, Carol Rogers
explaining how Davis has infinitely inspired her and how she teaches her
students, the valuable benefits of wisdom that he has bestowed upon her
is a mantra of many. For he has continued on the path of spreading
knowledge and enjoyment of the arts to generation to generation,
enlightening a range of youth to adults, eager to learn everything there
is to cherish about the illustrating the imagination. <br />
In the context, Davis lists these important day to day lessons:
talk to one's self, figure out the differences between wants and needs,
find imperative ways to serve others, never discount or discredit elders
who often have complimentary profound knowledge and wisdom to offer
listening ears, and go out and immerse in Dayton's beautiful art scene! <br />
His conclusion- asking three valuable questions- "Who am I?" "What am I?" "What I am to do with the gifts I've been given?" <br />
O'Dell and Davis have taught me that- home is not only where the heart is- it's where the roots are planted. <br />
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Like the breakfast, lunch was a lavish affair of salads, vegetables, and
desserts. Very impressively displayed and with very courteous staff, every detail was genuinely flawless.<br />
Once ended, it was time for the Breakout Sessions!<br />
Hard to pick and choose which to attend from the many options available!<br />
For
the first selection, I went to the Banners for Peace Art Workshop
hosted by Bing Davis. The hands on activity was to create block prints
from recycled materials found at the local recycling center for a large
banner that would hang around campus.<br />
Overall theme- symbols of peace from around the world. <br />
So much fun! <br />
For my personal design, I created an afro
with a face on it, something of which is centric to me, a symbol of
strength, wisdom, and bravery for the decision to stick to the roots
that so many want to "straighten out."<br />
A lot of great, unifying work from everyone- can't wait to see these banners hung up around the college campus!<br />
Another tip- to make a simple, cheaper at home ink for printmaking mix tempera paint and liquid soap! <br />
<br />
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I knew Buffy would inspire someone! I knew it!<br />
None of my high school teachers believed. Hahaha!<br />
Just kidding.<br />
Issa Randall's presentation had nothing to do with my cult show's influence on his work.<br />
For my second breakout session choice, I decided to see an artist I wasn't before aware of, having just met Randall prior at Thursday night's Linda Stein/James Pate gallery reception. <br />
Discussing
semiotics in art, he gave an insightful, entertaining lecture on his
creative process, the stories behind his photography, the background of
life in London and in Dayton. With inspirations including the conceptual
Dada movement and unfamiliar artists that I must look up- Robert
Morris, Martha Rosler, David Hammons, and Peter Kinnard, his work raises
awareness on politics and masculine stereotypes in an ambiguous manner.
<br />
Cannot wait to see his work at DVAC which coagulates with Stein and Pate's Sinclair exhibitions! <br />
<br />
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The jazz was an amazing ending choice to a fabulous event!<br />
OMG! Just spellbinding and uplifting!<br />
Imagining that I was at a club swinging, bogging, and dancing the
night away, I couldn't stop moving in my hard wooden chair to Dr.
Willie Morris III and his Jazz Combo of gifted young musicians. My toes
itched, shoulders rocked, fingers quietly snapped, and head leaned left
and right to the sounds of Latin infused jazz or "jass" as it used to be
called. Two pieces from Antonio Carlos Jobim and the beloved John
Coltrane were featured selections that the group played for us.<br />
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While right beside me, a woman was avidly drawing the live, entertaining action with sleek, precise gestures in her sketchbook.<br />
REACH was a perfect way to an almost end to 2012's Black History Month. <br />
Again,
I am overjoyed and had an incredible time- brain is stimulated beyond
words by all of the fascinating information I've been so graciously
given!<br />
RE: Look up Daytonian Bill Sloan- the basketball player who
saved 317 people in the Great Miami Flood of Dayton in 1913! I sure
did!Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-37722629595634339592012-02-23T19:42:00.001-08:002012-02-27T00:29:22.019-08:00"Attack" Works on Paper by James PateThe second part of the ongoing REACH artist series at Sinclair Community College, James Pate's "Attack" charcoal drawing series is an exploration of the tempestuous beauty, alluring grace, and ferocious power in the African American female body. Opposing oppression and weakness, she is bold, brazen, and bare, her nude, voluptuous body a towering strength in every kinetically activated composition.<br />
A stunning companion to Linda Stein's "Fluidity of Gender: Sculpture" exhibit, Pate's sensuously captivating world of sleek, crisp lines and elegantly etched value structures showcase a woman clad not in clothing, but the fiery cloak of awareness in every fiber of her skin, telling the viewer that she needs no hero, no rescuer of the detrimental reality and terrifying peril. On the verge of being attacked and pursued by targeting minute airplanes, she pays the metaphorically crafted danger no mind, averting her gaze away, seeming disinterested, nonchalant, or undisturbed.<br />
Protective and unyielding, she is ready to fight off abuse with the slap of a hand, the toss of the coiled locks of her hair, and the grim line of full lips. All the while one may think she is all pliant softness and lush curves, but the reality is that underneath it all lies the ironclad armor of a warrior.<br />
Thus, while I stood in front of Pate's work, seduced by the beauty and articulation, a specific poem by Maya Angelou came to mind. I could seriously hear her voice reciting it to me, these five compelling drawings, and to every woman who had ever felt a loss of power.<br />
<br />
"Phenomenal Woman"<br />
<br />
<div class="poem">
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
But when I start to tell them, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
They think I’m telling lies. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I say, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
It’s in the reach of my arms, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The span of my hips, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The stride of my step, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The curl of my lips. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I’m a woman </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenally. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenal woman, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
That’s me. </div>
<br />
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I walk into a room </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Just as cool as you please, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
And to a man, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The fellows stand or </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Fall down on their knees. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Then they swarm around me, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
A hive of honey bees. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I say, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
It’s the fire in my eyes, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
And the flash of my teeth, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The swing in my waist, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
And the joy in my feet. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I’m a woman </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenally. </div>
<br />
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenal woman, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
That’s me. </div>
<br />
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Men themselves have wondered </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
What they see in me. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
They try so much </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
But they can’t touch </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
My inner mystery. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
When I try to show them, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
They say they still can’t see. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I say, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
It’s in the arch of my back, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The sun of my smile, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The ride of my breasts, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The grace of my style. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I’m a woman </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenally. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenal woman, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
That’s me. </div>
<br />
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Now you understand </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Just why my head’s not bowed. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I don’t shout or jump about </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Or have to talk real loud. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
When you see me passing, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
It ought to make you proud. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
I say, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
It’s in the click of my heels, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The bend of my hair, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
the palm of my hand, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
The need for my care. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
’Cause I’m a woman </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenally. </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
Phenomenal woman, </div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
That’s me.</div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
</div>
<div style="padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em;">
</div>
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Along with Stein's work, Pate's is also up until March 7, 2012.<br />
Don't miss out on Kin Killing Kin (<a href="http://sugarygingersnap.blogspot.com/2011/10/kin-killing-kin.html">http://sugarygingersnap.blogspot.com/2011/10/kin-killing-kin.html</a> ) up at the Ebonia Gallery until February 29th, the end of Black History Month.<br />
I highly recommend seeing all three! </div>Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-22767716790261774282012-01-11T14:11:00.002-08:002012-01-19T14:40:31.324-08:00Olivia's PresentWhile little Olivia dreamed of salmon treats and chasing mice, the UPS man delivered a large heavy box to our residence. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8RVqFS6-CDv10x_f_UMlK2MLUPZM15nyrD2P_YtCWoVXB57ZDq_cUjToyVi1hxKjmAKxhc9Hm6loi3b3hIiX__n7jfA2AVyDe5BZZ3k1aIOvmLMSFFkm1dSsaZUJWLxpNt16a2UmkbQ/s1600/2011-12-12+00.43.43.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696506460354786482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8RVqFS6-CDv10x_f_UMlK2MLUPZM15nyrD2P_YtCWoVXB57ZDq_cUjToyVi1hxKjmAKxhc9Hm6loi3b3hIiX__n7jfA2AVyDe5BZZ3k1aIOvmLMSFFkm1dSsaZUJWLxpNt16a2UmkbQ/s320/2011-12-12+00.43.43.jpg" style="display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfN2yoki1QJUAtbL-DnkFY_Yvt3mXwfBpjQFF3RZyRPP4Du6hmJPbhaOUQNJkKmq1H5WfT9cbz1RcpdGD-916Ouhp7NT98DbHPArA9qfaQnTVJftVCTvfSZ6PuMWLyuyFx-EjLrN_bA/s1600/2012-01-10+16.12.51.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696503690260039778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfN2yoki1QJUAtbL-DnkFY_Yvt3mXwfBpjQFF3RZyRPP4Du6hmJPbhaOUQNJkKmq1H5WfT9cbz1RcpdGD-916Ouhp7NT98DbHPArA9qfaQnTVJftVCTvfSZ6PuMWLyuyFx-EjLrN_bA/s320/2012-01-10+16.12.51.jpg" style="display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></div>
<br />
"I don't know what's in it," said the man in brown. "But it is heavy!"<br />
Oddly enough, I didn't have to sign for it and admired that big box for a bit.<br />
A good friend of mine had thoughtfully purchased a cat tree for Olivia, but I didn't expect for it to be so huge...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkYNVzS0txzwZD6EVUlI657HEoVJQ_fgFwZgdwL9QhHyTASWlntut4U2yUdiveC-Spt5ExVOEyfLT5uKlGMxG1XV5NqadmCG8GoSoOV8KeIg5fQ9YhXlMSi2bWbjIH5YNRTkEKWRqDQ/s1600/2012-01-10+16.22.08.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696503693723705826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigkYNVzS0txzwZD6EVUlI657HEoVJQ_fgFwZgdwL9QhHyTASWlntut4U2yUdiveC-Spt5ExVOEyfLT5uKlGMxG1XV5NqadmCG8GoSoOV8KeIg5fQ9YhXlMSi2bWbjIH5YNRTkEKWRqDQ/s320/2012-01-10+16.22.08.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
And one that must be built.<br />
I'm not a construction, hands on genius, but thankfully Rob was there to help assemble the big tower of cat scratching and infinite play time. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMmMZNmgp7l7PR_8Zcp3AsKrjYyF7tVryI2zyaxuerSRl7ZJgeN722OaucEYbn2ISt1Ietq9rTYyayTonqP4YljsJjXCQLj9knv0pYSDWyr26x8l1HEoS-N01HLZcnO__8jntCN-oNSA/s1600/2012-01-10+17.10.59.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696503698636141474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMmMZNmgp7l7PR_8Zcp3AsKrjYyF7tVryI2zyaxuerSRl7ZJgeN722OaucEYbn2ISt1Ietq9rTYyayTonqP4YljsJjXCQLj9knv0pYSDWyr26x8l1HEoS-N01HLZcnO__8jntCN-oNSA/s320/2012-01-10+17.10.59.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
With very basic instructions, we were good to go.<br />
Except the manual at times left off things that we had to figure out on our own or we had to use judgment.<br />
A bit of easily resolved frustration.<br />
Leaving things out of the equation- mainly the fuzzy cylinders and two medium sized scratching sticks, not everything was going to be screwed into the cat tree. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5G5wNRzpkaHZPUMsMHjOhyphenhyphenJ6bQWWspJV6IEvFI9xqQ_jCkYoPML5DXMeBMhe0TnjEURVOo60W5yxJgI7SuoL6gujTefDa9rj7MBNttrM0mV5dtHK7rKjCYza_NqWs2eVDwXeAj5vIEQ/s1600/2012-01-10+18.39.29.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696503704730859938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5G5wNRzpkaHZPUMsMHjOhyphenhyphenJ6bQWWspJV6IEvFI9xqQ_jCkYoPML5DXMeBMhe0TnjEURVOo60W5yxJgI7SuoL6gujTefDa9rj7MBNttrM0mV5dtHK7rKjCYza_NqWs2eVDwXeAj5vIEQ/s320/2012-01-10+18.39.29.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
We "finished" it.<br />
The cylinders are not screwed in any place, but it still looks pretty pleasant and the light beige doesn't clash with the simplicity of the white walled kitchen.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipktWeYoRsM2FeLOV_e1RlwkmvYscYjLSWkOBCzvPF2619gVhA3mHgT2AFwx0I95PPgiW9FgFFf_vUK_Dj0FQNx5eDuTrjMGccqDEKyezVfgF3aSbj1DGiLgGXtGA-7aOuXJvZU7WmMg/s1600/2012-01-10+18.39.39.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696503708941730226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipktWeYoRsM2FeLOV_e1RlwkmvYscYjLSWkOBCzvPF2619gVhA3mHgT2AFwx0I95PPgiW9FgFFf_vUK_Dj0FQNx5eDuTrjMGccqDEKyezVfgF3aSbj1DGiLgGXtGA-7aOuXJvZU7WmMg/s320/2012-01-10+18.39.39.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
Two hours of hard fun labor without orange caps/hammers/nails and at almost seven feet (yes, it's taller than Rob!), the cat tree is prepared for one little kitty to play about in.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi031qsZIIYXHeJg3RKMv5sd-4x0TwV1Zk4V5zxywshZs_p6AynBtbjEqNQiGMwH-ygnivSY2TFamBpz6GqGbqamtg5_nQgOy5l-3KugVt68N1fFHn6R7E2WIxz_KDWWk1B2d5evmbCmg/s1600/2012-01-10+18.42.43.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696505412492193218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi031qsZIIYXHeJg3RKMv5sd-4x0TwV1Zk4V5zxywshZs_p6AynBtbjEqNQiGMwH-ygnivSY2TFamBpz6GqGbqamtg5_nQgOy5l-3KugVt68N1fFHn6R7E2WIxz_KDWWk1B2d5evmbCmg/s320/2012-01-10+18.42.43.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Avidly curious about her new furry surroundings, Olivia takes a peek inside and out!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBTALRJf5rBR7PticzOM1mu0-xiF5g-A5zhgK4zNdrD3BlxMGoDb_GMdtmfLsbLbmhgwQq2ZeLIvp2fSyLZsDEbk3_17CCpJVdlfXVC3DhSd2uugXSIeYN9CvfYw6g6VE2gpBu5sSBg/s1600/2012-01-10+18.42.05.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696505406899080114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBTALRJf5rBR7PticzOM1mu0-xiF5g-A5zhgK4zNdrD3BlxMGoDb_GMdtmfLsbLbmhgwQq2ZeLIvp2fSyLZsDEbk3_17CCpJVdlfXVC3DhSd2uugXSIeYN9CvfYw6g6VE2gpBu5sSBg/s320/2012-01-10+18.42.05.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Of course, the blue bell ball keeps her company.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmefBba3aJHQzVmnSe2PklNAHkNLD888V6chL7o2DDDaUIpXJaPONKuentkaKvG9JeVtK9aXpCrkJirHvi6jxAtg42AHNjfcPu3fArhMzt8WEyfThnRbNqZoQtHwF1Zjd9sj03gO8PA/s1600/2012-01-10+18.43.14.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696505421205569106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmefBba3aJHQzVmnSe2PklNAHkNLD888V6chL7o2DDDaUIpXJaPONKuentkaKvG9JeVtK9aXpCrkJirHvi6jxAtg42AHNjfcPu3fArhMzt8WEyfThnRbNqZoQtHwF1Zjd9sj03gO8PA/s320/2012-01-10+18.43.14.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
All that's missing is a "Home Sweet Home" sign to hang outside of her "door."<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYlRTytiqcLU0pYvwPuUBxYW7WQnxCpoiYrVlWCUuG80ULVnpZwUlVcszA0NT7bNGR2OrIiKo41YpzVZWwPNud5ihxyJZZ57LfTCXERga3DsP8cXOsdCRkmBDUKB5yhRNPQxm9uFXdQ/s1600/2012-01-10+21.07.03.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696506459214993554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYlRTytiqcLU0pYvwPuUBxYW7WQnxCpoiYrVlWCUuG80ULVnpZwUlVcszA0NT7bNGR2OrIiKo41YpzVZWwPNud5ihxyJZZ57LfTCXERga3DsP8cXOsdCRkmBDUKB5yhRNPQxm9uFXdQ/s320/2012-01-10+21.07.03.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
At the very top, I caught her in motion!<br />
She's the queen of her domain.<br />
That was until she cried and told me to take her down.<br />
I wasn't expecting her to be afraid of heights...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAE5J18vXQm3r-b96cVk71yrDgbOf9U7RMIrn4TeU-YM4nN6Kdw-Q3e7d1aaPV76tJidy2wyio9hIndELkvxWHnwUC7s6ZurFlczDQBAK1TvmTqh2ixe_5TloODtsNu8wD7M61ksvLLg/s1600/2012-01-10+21.10.55.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696505412181609186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAE5J18vXQm3r-b96cVk71yrDgbOf9U7RMIrn4TeU-YM4nN6Kdw-Q3e7d1aaPV76tJidy2wyio9hIndELkvxWHnwUC7s6ZurFlczDQBAK1TvmTqh2ixe_5TloODtsNu8wD7M61ksvLLg/s320/2012-01-10+21.10.55.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
She looks so merry.<br />
As she should be.<br />
Rob and I are very touched by this courteous gesture and are beyond appreciative. <br />
It is truly commendable to have such a wonderful, very generous, loving friend that gives a gift that means a lot to many, especially a pet who has warmed our hearts immensely. A little kitten who has overcome much in a short amount of time. She probably didn't expect something so large scale and grand, but she deserves it and more. <br />
Sure Olivia has her toys, her food, and her treats, but to have this perfect tree is surely the tip top of her expectations.<br />
I am forever thankful to my bestest pal in the whole entire world for making this possible and I love her very much! She's one amazing lady and I'm glad to call her the rarest of gems. <3Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-90683536127532302412012-01-09T14:10:00.000-08:002012-01-09T15:53:46.820-08:00I Miss You: The First Commission of 2012<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R6Hd88jdjm_N3YqSbsz-virsVrVy-Ia3Q2Yepa1FkTYfc_EB3s-v5W_3lg60F0WdaeyznbXOB8S1J8dkMpmLBcSGW0eyv839ND86GimbTp40K5Ohtxd7APBe8Q_Q2HXnif_sU9cl0A/s1600/Picture+129.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R6Hd88jdjm_N3YqSbsz-virsVrVy-Ia3Q2Yepa1FkTYfc_EB3s-v5W_3lg60F0WdaeyznbXOB8S1J8dkMpmLBcSGW0eyv839ND86GimbTp40K5Ohtxd7APBe8Q_Q2HXnif_sU9cl0A/s320/Picture+129.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695768767350845826" /></a><br />Not just in heart and spirit, Meano was to be forever immortalized in art. <br />Yes, I've drawn and painted him several times over the years, but this was different. I was asked and approached to create a piece about a wonderful, good dog friend. <br />With him being gone, I wanted to make it even more special, invoking every last aspect of love.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6FS7WzwS_vYH5hygMl7nWWpWltwxeSyHvUSCUa7QD7aNooxlX-zQ2Z-n3l3TaU7x3gb1oLglVYZqxPHsHABNI-mbj_njYjHHoll-0AmtVSM9jKTDcB0snRb4_m4CQ53BwafOIcKvUw/s1600/meano+drawing.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY6FS7WzwS_vYH5hygMl7nWWpWltwxeSyHvUSCUa7QD7aNooxlX-zQ2Z-n3l3TaU7x3gb1oLglVYZqxPHsHABNI-mbj_njYjHHoll-0AmtVSM9jKTDcB0snRb4_m4CQ53BwafOIcKvUw/s320/meano+drawing.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695767291071028146" /></a><br />I had been given free reign on size and medium.<br />On black matboard, I began layering the oil pastels on thickly. (I only use my Holbein! Best pastels ever!) Yellows, oranges, browns, greens, reds, and blues built up a joyous, tongue dripping, rich butter faced dog. <br />For hours, I worked in various places- bedroom floor, living room table, in my friend's classroom, and at Starbucks. Such an honor, hearing compliments by family, friends, and strangers as I progressed.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1qjvrSAGP-F0_jXviVd81J3ODS0_sjqoILznkg89pR631DW_p827I1E_uLjY1IpXNIH8hd_wo5oUzKAo23eDXUXBSOGPEFDm3L2aYBnl3sJ6heXZnJ_yhxPMXHEohhEw7TBDR5d0_g/s1600/1325926937363.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 208px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1qjvrSAGP-F0_jXviVd81J3ODS0_sjqoILznkg89pR631DW_p827I1E_uLjY1IpXNIH8hd_wo5oUzKAo23eDXUXBSOGPEFDm3L2aYBnl3sJ6heXZnJ_yhxPMXHEohhEw7TBDR5d0_g/s320/1325926937363.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695762594005434674" /></a><br />I wanted the pastels to stand out, but couldn't leave the background black.<br />Didn't want to think of him in a dark, miserable place lacking sunshine and positive energy.<br />Doggy Heaven had to be a golden, vibrant magical world of lush, green grass for him to roam around free, happy, and wild.<br />Using Liquitex's Basic Gold and Golden copper acrylic paint, a wide brush painted thick application of a shimmery, beautiful atmosphere. <br />The warping only minimal, the matboard went back to flat.<br />Green grass was next.<br />Lots and lots of green, brown, yellow, red horizontal lines of pastel strokes.<br />Last step- a generous spraying of Krylon Low Odor Matte Finish Spray on all pastel work.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXLvw1y3ji4Os1SbVwTPnt9nqrFU6V49hbsQbYYTNwkDfVDk48F7O-egS1VOZHmzXGOgmWR9agq07jeRtkSYJogXrqwvzga2ehAnwbN4Jv9W8oIYQCsjm1ZPsJFLtTWE_1YBBrnuaCQ/s1600/final+drawing.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 153px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAXLvw1y3ji4Os1SbVwTPnt9nqrFU6V49hbsQbYYTNwkDfVDk48F7O-egS1VOZHmzXGOgmWR9agq07jeRtkSYJogXrqwvzga2ehAnwbN4Jv9W8oIYQCsjm1ZPsJFLtTWE_1YBBrnuaCQ/s320/final+drawing.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695768556093939010" /></a><br />Here's the finished piece.<br />Meano paused in the brink of joy.<br />And I'll always remember him looking that way.<br />From atop of his favorite tree stump in the backyard.Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-399599490504235712011-12-31T18:09:00.000-08:002012-01-19T14:43:38.669-08:00Best of 2011Last post of 2011: the year of a lot of reflection, personal growth in life and creative spirit, and a new found peace that I never expected. <br />
Well, here are seven best things that have helped shape me along the way.<br />
<br />
#7 Best Album<br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/786okz5"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://tinyurl.com/786okz5" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 368px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 368px;" /></a><br />
An exclusive from my Starbucks obsession (see #4), Feist's new album was highly anticipated, especially with the first track, "Bittersweet Melodies" on repeat in my head.<br />
My leading Canadian lady didn't disappoint. <br />
Beautifully composed songs and signature poignant lyrics on folk beats make Feist's fourth studio album a blissful treat for the ears and tender heart. Standout cuts include the soft, melodic poetry of "Caught A Long Wind," the swingy uptempo, "The Bad In Each Other," and the smooth, laid back, "How Come We Don't Go There." The added choir background vocals in "Undiscovered First" and "Graveyard" are also quite compelling to note.<br />
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#6 Best Dayton Art Museum<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXsEESGivHAKKquIU4GFzeXCXCfFXMaETWq6joGL8yhO25lrmTAhgjZ2T-3GeDm2LE23WGAuUV1W3t5yeqCi0QCteZrQVZdsfSi_mU14mlqsuG9RmocGWBxFAQzO5aMgLjd8xm4Tu4eQ/s1600/2011-11-17+14.57.39.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692523022219630642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXsEESGivHAKKquIU4GFzeXCXCfFXMaETWq6joGL8yhO25lrmTAhgjZ2T-3GeDm2LE23WGAuUV1W3t5yeqCi0QCteZrQVZdsfSi_mU14mlqsuG9RmocGWBxFAQzO5aMgLjd8xm4Tu4eQ/s320/2011-11-17+14.57.39.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
2011 was an incredible year of art in Dayton.<br />
First Fridays and Urban Nights are amazing, surefire ways of getting the public to see how wonderfully talented local and well known artists are!<br />
The Dayton Art Institute certainly had a variety of shows that kept a solid interest going- from Arthur Primas's African American Collection, the contemporary show that featured Marilyn Minter, a Winslow Homer reflection and the current Norman Rockwell Exhibit, the historical art museum has everyone on their toes waiting for what's coming next!<br />
<br />
#5 Best Dayton Art Show<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCsfJLsaDFwM5mf4ifgilg4HL4tiRKE9YxQhd6eOdxK_r4ibcHbudY8KqtT8neQnYGzEkpzr1r7aMQTl7S7MlNafMsaZanOoej-shngNyQuG8djsE0L9nN09HoesXTG9RFl1F8-5cbbA/s1600/pate+art+8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692523025439426626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCsfJLsaDFwM5mf4ifgilg4HL4tiRKE9YxQhd6eOdxK_r4ibcHbudY8KqtT8neQnYGzEkpzr1r7aMQTl7S7MlNafMsaZanOoej-shngNyQuG8djsE0L9nN09HoesXTG9RFl1F8-5cbbA/s320/pate+art+8.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
James Pate's "Kin Killing Kin" up at Willis Bing Davis's Ebonia Gallery in the heart of West Third Street has just been extended for a reason. The powerful, guttural show is one of the most talked about conversations in the art scene. <br />
I can't express enough how beautiful, raw, and sad the truth Pate revelations are, but it's definitely a can't miss!<br />
<br />
#4 Best Tasting Sinful Indulgence<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3E-lg7klkWerz1ox0ksJCa6pT93tD5mTvCYnhyphenhyphenT9j2gdvCRhyyvLDYdtSZjNJELx5VvQkSodqz4Lf3wr3eBPy539ifdN5_dH95SOo_bPBCgzMdZtkXwipEOiFgJNz5wzI12b8ht8PQ/s1600/tea.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692515795317901810" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3E-lg7klkWerz1ox0ksJCa6pT93tD5mTvCYnhyphenhyphenT9j2gdvCRhyyvLDYdtSZjNJELx5VvQkSodqz4Lf3wr3eBPy539ifdN5_dH95SOo_bPBCgzMdZtkXwipEOiFgJNz5wzI12b8ht8PQ/s320/tea.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Starbucks....<br />
Sighs.<br />
No secret that I have made this popular coffeehouse a second home. <br />
It was more than a new place to write my novel, utilize the Internet, and chill.<br />
The hot soy chai tea, the iced lemon pound cake, and those nice baristas got me. <br />
Soy chai is foamy, sweet (I add sprinkles of chocolate and vanilla powders plus extra cinnamon to mine). The spicy zip of black pepper comforts me too. <br />
It's an absolutely delicious addiction.<br />
I would like to thank those baristas for all of the free chais. <br />
I'll never forget that thoughtfulness.<br />
Iced lemon pound cake, so light, lemony zesty, and moist with that delightful tease of vanilla icing (that sometimes has yummy coconut in it!) is to die for. <br />
Sadly, I won't be eating these things any longer. <br />
They aren't vegan.<br />
I would have to make them at home and bring them to the spot.<br />
My body cannot tolerate any coffee, but here are some of the vegan options I am willing to try : soy hot chocolate, tea lemonade, and vivanno smoothies without whey. <br />
Maybe next year, Starbucks will find itself back here?<br />
<br />
#3 Best Television Moment!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSnApsCKTWfj5Yuvx9_yK6RO2EL6JAY1u1BoZwJrmG7LecsPnkYDzuCtpcu1DfAC2vNOVgFgvZSMNlzIi64tIkuGyCSj-iUyECTQBJ-G45fYRe3aGdmfqIuDjgJdTNDe159oS5nfzU8Q/s1600/ej+and+samantha.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692513821879368994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSnApsCKTWfj5Yuvx9_yK6RO2EL6JAY1u1BoZwJrmG7LecsPnkYDzuCtpcu1DfAC2vNOVgFgvZSMNlzIi64tIkuGyCSj-iUyECTQBJ-G45fYRe3aGdmfqIuDjgJdTNDe159oS5nfzU8Q/s320/ej+and+samantha.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 180px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
On the daytime serial, "Days Of Our Lives" actors James Scott and Alison Sweeney are incredible together.<br />
One has to applaud that!<br />
But on November 18-21, they brought something in an hour segment that moved and brought an audience to their knees. <br />
Saddened, embittered parents, EJ Dimera and Samantha Brady are rocked to the core when it comes to light that their first born son, Johnny Dimera has died. Though consoling and then blaming one another, raw angst and tormented grief turn into a rather, dark visceral display of angry passion and explosive vulnerability. <br />
What?<br />
Surprised?<br />
Did you really think I was going to pick EJ running for mayor?<br />
Maybe next year.....<br />
<br />
#2 Best Hair Style That I Should Be Sporting!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi864yhiICr6ZSJjMllbA2VPDt8lFXGHuiIb12M3PkEJBJpN6z4Hbr7kBsUZnOv60IfS0uODiGt4btdMZmXJo16CbkWmU86AMKkgomRNQZG-nTvht1uDbjFaEuHAB7UTwG0m8UmvZ0-2A/s1600/sweet+curls.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692509994253319362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi864yhiICr6ZSJjMllbA2VPDt8lFXGHuiIb12M3PkEJBJpN6z4Hbr7kBsUZnOv60IfS0uODiGt4btdMZmXJo16CbkWmU86AMKkgomRNQZG-nTvht1uDbjFaEuHAB7UTwG0m8UmvZ0-2A/s320/sweet+curls.jpg" style="display: block; height: 320px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I love this!<br />
It's freaking hot.<br />
Essence Magazine emails me all the latest in natural sistah style. I must say that after about 300 pictures from the year, this one just jumped out at me. Her think, well managed curls are moisturized and shiny.<br />
I bet the wind breezes through it all cool and collected.<br />
Plus, her scarf is beautiful!<br />
Currently, my mysterious hair kept under satin scarves and winter caps, is on a shampoo/condition every two weeks and twisted regime. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#1 Best Non-Guilty Pleasure!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjs8gB2ZQCUMQ0meK4nkIOQR6qwdFOiZfyx1LXdpXq8Syb2a6Gu-rGvzviiMmRjixSEO-mmn4swgDlnVuTeOXhnR-_aBBzRXKJ9WPWowE9MJ0MVbiMHU4yPoSA021YnO4s8Ezz0Ejtw/s1600/larabar.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692508865589238530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgjs8gB2ZQCUMQ0meK4nkIOQR6qwdFOiZfyx1LXdpXq8Syb2a6Gu-rGvzviiMmRjixSEO-mmn4swgDlnVuTeOXhnR-_aBBzRXKJ9WPWowE9MJ0MVbiMHU4yPoSA021YnO4s8Ezz0Ejtw/s320/larabar.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 208px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
In February, I started a new third shift job and got pretty hungry a lot. <br />
For some unknown reason, I scoped out the power bar section, wanting to be revved up on a sweet, guilty free snack. Tried Luna, Bora Bora, Clif, and these beautifully packaged sensations called, Larabar- the raw fruit and nut bar. <br />
Needless to say, after one bite of cherry pie, Larabar proved to be the only bar I would ever need. <br />
Using nine ingredients or less and with loads of potassium, a bit of fiber, and protein, and no added sugar, they were way better than cookies and cake!<br />
Thus, I saved every wrapper, collecting every bold color for a future not yet created artwork. So far the tally goes: 41 cherry pies, 22 apple pies, 20 lemon bars, 15 chocolate chip brownies, 14 peanut butter and jelly and peanut butter chocolate chips, 8 chocolate coconut chews, 5 key limes, 4 coconut cream pies, 3 cashew cookies and tropical fruit, 2 banana breads, chocolate chip cookie doughs, and 1 gingersnap, cinnamon roll, and this never before tried flavor- blueberry muffin.<br />
So I followed and tweeted larabar, telling them just about every week how much I love them. In March, they sent a package of more larabars, a wrist band, bumper stickers, and other goodies, thanking me for spreading the word! That of which made me love them even more. Not just the bars themselves, but the people behind them.<br />
I say 2012 is about quadrupling the load! Heehee! ;) <br />
Thank heaven most of them are vegan and as many know, 2012 will be the year I give up all dairy, egg, and honey products. <br />
However, no more chocolaty larabars. :(<br />
I love them and am thankful for discovery!<br />
Now 2012, not to sound selfish, but what will you bring me?Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-81099740418543510022011-12-31T17:14:00.000-08:002011-12-31T17:57:29.995-08:00Jolly About The Trolley!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNMKOhatp4ZisQC_3r0n-KngRhFTjfmrPL5LtrKN1b6EQNM5YEXffmBgClmqT4qangEDwX7OAJRHtP4XtI3p-a8B-9ept6BFy-x4w_UHlHa04bSI-YBmEd8KIELyw7wHb7zn8ZAedWQ/s1600/Dayton_Flyer_trolley_bus_922_in_1996.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNMKOhatp4ZisQC_3r0n-KngRhFTjfmrPL5LtrKN1b6EQNM5YEXffmBgClmqT4qangEDwX7OAJRHtP4XtI3p-a8B-9ept6BFy-x4w_UHlHa04bSI-YBmEd8KIELyw7wHb7zn8ZAedWQ/s320/Dayton_Flyer_trolley_bus_922_in_1996.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692476134820508834" /></a><br />(Miami Valley Regional Transit Authority Trolley Circa 1996)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tinyurl.com/7wvbsjo"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 480px; height: 360px;" src="http://tinyurl.com/7wvbsjo" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />As a kid, I loved riding the yellow bus.<br />No.<br />Not the school bus.<br />The Dayton RTA trolley.<br />Is it was always an adventure, especially around the holidays when Santa sat in the back seat handing out candy canes to eager children.<br />Those days are long past.<br />As well as the original trolley design.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3L1jLT4uKyoyFo1P9ZEc6iiZCGQ3v0LGBPllB6QZ5mEE3jMRNz5UXUNysL231y4NpwJIBPHNG3djX_Gl-G1ru-Nn6sZObQImBiGqYyCAaa_gDYjdDVuN-jkYnbGN9m9kr0c3EqEX6Q/s1600/RTA-Hybrid-2.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3L1jLT4uKyoyFo1P9ZEc6iiZCGQ3v0LGBPllB6QZ5mEE3jMRNz5UXUNysL231y4NpwJIBPHNG3djX_Gl-G1ru-Nn6sZObQImBiGqYyCAaa_gDYjdDVuN-jkYnbGN9m9kr0c3EqEX6Q/s320/RTA-Hybrid-2.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692467480752988850" /></a><br />People frown heavily on public transportation- saying that it’s the poor man’s ride and that things are better efficient with a car!<br />While there are pros and cons of every way of transport, I will always enjoy a good bus ride.<br />With new environmentally friendly buses (they have trolley hybrids now!) and a cost effective way of saving money, buses, trains, and subways are certainly wonderful way to travel.<br />Sometimes they can be late.<br />At times very early.<br />But I truly love buses and appreciate the people driving them.<br />I especially enjoy long journeys and going the distance on buses I’ve never boarded.<br />That of which I can do more of since receiving a surprise monthly bus pass for Christmas.<br />On particular bus rides, I always find myself leaning against the window either daydreaming, reading books, writing in my journal, or drawing in the sketchbook.<br />My favorite kinds of buses are trolleys.<br />That much is obvious! Not a single diesel will be pictured! Haha!<br />They are nostalgic, perfectly constructed, and now have comfortable seating.<br />There’s something about standing at the bus stop and watching as it approaches. The perpendicular wires attach on a cord giving it the power it needs to “survive” and that beautiful yellow shade gets my eyes pumping.<br />Is it any wonder that my novel series are called The Yellow Trolley Chronicles- stories about a young, troubled artist and her friendship with a kind-hearted bus driver? <br />Loosely based on actual events, I do believe it was destiny to meet a person that inspired a passionate, poetic side to emerge. Aspects of the novel are quite lovely, especially the two characters’ interactions, but other parts are ugly, dark, and brutal realities that happen in life.<br />In between writing this, creating duck fashion illustrations and African centric portraiture, I’m starting a new painting series on nine by twelve inch canvases- small scale.<br />Purposefully abstract, these stylized exaggerations are a reflection of a woman who has loved the evolution of buses since forever. I plan on adding more than local color and value in these works. Oranges, pinks, blues, and reds will be squeezed next to the greens, whites, yellows, and purples palette.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhAMOnmA4_wvT38S8qaMPKMFo9V20w5sJgWQ2Al7Ucboi-4rz-GGVttVlXAD1IAADj883_Itm40RvMixCjifY77K-GdB7mlzpFhwN2DW8bVEnKAoEjQu006jZgtTlabBteqiKYQs1yA/s1600/colored+pencil+bus.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhAMOnmA4_wvT38S8qaMPKMFo9V20w5sJgWQ2Al7Ucboi-4rz-GGVttVlXAD1IAADj883_Itm40RvMixCjifY77K-GdB7mlzpFhwN2DW8bVEnKAoEjQu006jZgtTlabBteqiKYQs1yA/s320/colored+pencil+bus.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692467477649467842" /></a><br />This was just a dorky colored pencil sketch.<br />The shapes are not exactly square, but the exterior design of a trolley is a series of complex angles and edges. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fmW8n1RzBpZLKx7dwnMlSotvfA1ZBbaVm0Xvw6luxyWBMwj0uUvw-kx8pJxuLCAy2j4AJfPK1z55lEGqAJSVvC_kUxqLk3S7poFLzZ0kB4rMOi_B02gN3JDKJOKlDUkEwIK9prfifg/s1600/green+bus.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 204px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fmW8n1RzBpZLKx7dwnMlSotvfA1ZBbaVm0Xvw6luxyWBMwj0uUvw-kx8pJxuLCAy2j4AJfPK1z55lEGqAJSVvC_kUxqLk3S7poFLzZ0kB4rMOi_B02gN3JDKJOKlDUkEwIK9prfifg/s320/green+bus.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692467471279137426" /></a><br />Two rough acrylic paintings in the beginning stages of epic bus greatness- the green trolley hybrid and the yellow trolley. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgIUiL1Jfw2xjkehUAz3j7srcMpXf7hyJQIzTB0nFvplCC7GpTdTjpdHz-zAio0MItCJc4eQUQUagfWXrNRgBDQh7H6_LzVAmbsuJ1NJlbezV5EJah8Jkkg-1FSML2ka-KysmY_Hchew/s1600/bus+sketch.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 186px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgIUiL1Jfw2xjkehUAz3j7srcMpXf7hyJQIzTB0nFvplCC7GpTdTjpdHz-zAio0MItCJc4eQUQUagfWXrNRgBDQh7H6_LzVAmbsuJ1NJlbezV5EJah8Jkkg-1FSML2ka-KysmY_Hchew/s320/bus+sketch.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692467466121272914" /></a><br />Smooth, sleek elegance.<br />Will be probably finishing this one first.<br />It's my favorite.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojl7Yb1VOIh4y9pyS4LodR9b5SqSSp8EIFY-rpWUwh5DPuabLj_LDUoVcwJjFW2jen5PeuHkCygohp759C-aAb_TTjOyrW-5UCTAYYk8eAS3hSMrepgn-DHMIqIX9_yQsJNzsXQ9eaQ/s1600/4455299522_ec6dd6b62d.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojl7Yb1VOIh4y9pyS4LodR9b5SqSSp8EIFY-rpWUwh5DPuabLj_LDUoVcwJjFW2jen5PeuHkCygohp759C-aAb_TTjOyrW-5UCTAYYk8eAS3hSMrepgn-DHMIqIX9_yQsJNzsXQ9eaQ/s320/4455299522_ec6dd6b62d.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692467484654552722" /></a><br />Ah, the coveted, yellow trolley. <br />I adore you.<br />If it were possible, I would love to get married on one!Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1401247039812103123.post-47136145786436271412011-12-18T20:20:00.000-08:002011-12-24T10:32:29.091-08:00The Shockingly Self-Absorbed Mall Trip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNqWGFwioPbT0ns5u4JgDqfHHUNsV-4zHOf-SQ6kpbqCbJheivIhrqMCwUG7jEfoSfGwcV1MtXZKFtXlH4lu7tzUWgM78hoKF_tGubuVIijhpxd5LbCRoFgYkiizSc7gmJGX2ISza9Rg/s1600/sleepy+hollow+8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNqWGFwioPbT0ns5u4JgDqfHHUNsV-4zHOf-SQ6kpbqCbJheivIhrqMCwUG7jEfoSfGwcV1MtXZKFtXlH4lu7tzUWgM78hoKF_tGubuVIijhpxd5LbCRoFgYkiizSc7gmJGX2ISza9Rg/s320/sleepy+hollow+8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688753000898439858" /></a><br /><br />Went strolling through the Fairfield Commons Mall searching for the perfect gifts for Mom and brothers. <br />Fruitless and empty handed, I ventured into two of my favorite shops, Nirvana and SHE Fashions (formerly Sleepy Hollow) looking for bargain deals.<br />Of course, I knew that there would be more "presents" for me here and not my family. <br />Still, nothing wrong with harmless window shopping!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJcMhqKgx5OfhDH_KL9QK6M5DA4Pz2fVDXqgmIxrQEfYZHmwqmpwH8DQSRQINLrUn8nQ1dZVxCROrZUA1Zi5Am6dm1jL0cwCAK7R3P4igiVvOj4b2vvOnEQ4wrZ-IF7auAZ2ku3Qi6w/s1600/nirvana+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJcMhqKgx5OfhDH_KL9QK6M5DA4Pz2fVDXqgmIxrQEfYZHmwqmpwH8DQSRQINLrUn8nQ1dZVxCROrZUA1Zi5Am6dm1jL0cwCAK7R3P4igiVvOj4b2vvOnEQ4wrZ-IF7auAZ2ku3Qi6w/s320/nirvana+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688742095841999378" /></a><br /><br />Belly Dancing wear on sale!<br />Sweet!<br />Ummm yeah.<br />Could totally see Mom and brothers enjoying these things.<br />Nothing in my color spectrum unfortunately- only purples or darker blues for me!<br />Not that I planned on making purchases for myself.<br />But can't help imagining how amazing at home belly dance training would be if I wore something similar to what the other Shimmy ladies are wearing! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQoQN2h8yudTbw9T_1SDnTN2Y6Ciym19gVrK05-oYeuYDspnjs2mOqVo_e38nz0uryGnIT_oD-45rEouh_P1_hdd99tLCCMwqZe_iqgLvI2A31bWTZaMMBwoA7sxtHq4qmiQ2iH53FQ/s1600/nirvana.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQoQN2h8yudTbw9T_1SDnTN2Y6Ciym19gVrK05-oYeuYDspnjs2mOqVo_e38nz0uryGnIT_oD-45rEouh_P1_hdd99tLCCMwqZe_iqgLvI2A31bWTZaMMBwoA7sxtHq4qmiQ2iH53FQ/s320/nirvana.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729892073012194" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ba8FunFcoJVhNadUvgn-LJXfIEzb-VPcFLWGMjY1OLxuG19IumWtZg_A2i6Eh-Q3sbx1iVextEFY9pTsvEbp8bDfAlIKWdWopYpu26Yy9IRjWtebA5VGPx86v6vOknJ1Ei2dUzJv_A/s1600/nirvana+9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ba8FunFcoJVhNadUvgn-LJXfIEzb-VPcFLWGMjY1OLxuG19IumWtZg_A2i6Eh-Q3sbx1iVextEFY9pTsvEbp8bDfAlIKWdWopYpu26Yy9IRjWtebA5VGPx86v6vOknJ1Ei2dUzJv_A/s320/nirvana+9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729884863029458" /></a><br /><br />Bob Marley!<br />Yay!<br />Except Mom isn't necessarily big on reggae and my brothers probably aren't interested in a dread locked Rastafarian rapping about peace and love. <br />Though one brother might love the "green" aspect of Marley's poetry!<br />Now when summer comes along (in about 5 1/2 months boo hoo!) these sized small tank tops would look amazing on a certain someone.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKSu2s3aUXGy76k-ByisyOOGZTmMdN5zN_-UPBFqAfqomEt26bWt0YxQhgo5MjdvdvIuHR2mUk9KV-x2s-4BH_qxTuH8OmEiqQ6KTtNuIcYY01Y3HJ8meudFeRgs4tjnHglQb5kefYw/s1600/nirvana+8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKSu2s3aUXGy76k-ByisyOOGZTmMdN5zN_-UPBFqAfqomEt26bWt0YxQhgo5MjdvdvIuHR2mUk9KV-x2s-4BH_qxTuH8OmEiqQ6KTtNuIcYY01Y3HJ8meudFeRgs4tjnHglQb5kefYw/s320/nirvana+8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729881767735602" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaXXLFxPeu4QTf0yGhF5yssXdZY3pyg-LF56Az9MwMLGe7SxRECN844XfEexauvWHcZw75rhY_V6sLYFU2CF33W-0UENrT8N6czv6OHM0lv8OaVNDbRkjkGdlMfxT1vh2apKYpdg1zA/s1600/nirvana+7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLaXXLFxPeu4QTf0yGhF5yssXdZY3pyg-LF56Az9MwMLGe7SxRECN844XfEexauvWHcZw75rhY_V6sLYFU2CF33W-0UENrT8N6czv6OHM0lv8OaVNDbRkjkGdlMfxT1vh2apKYpdg1zA/s320/nirvana+7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729874529184722" /></a><br />And a little Marley to sleep on too?<br />Nirvana has thought of everything!<br />Err.... for my family.<br />Not me, of course.<br />Hahaha!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2Zrajdr466Bzvp3IhjMfd4opRR3lVTs9afAd948i_o9UycThyphenhyphend-U0cYI_dxfJdxkfQZjS5zEF2XCJHu5pql1qHMxbYoaIiox0GU1T4hlgSn5jYmST_-yD4xe2rOjI_XqWlhCb7OphA/s1600/sleepy+hollow+20.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2Zrajdr466Bzvp3IhjMfd4opRR3lVTs9afAd948i_o9UycThyphenhyphend-U0cYI_dxfJdxkfQZjS5zEF2XCJHu5pql1qHMxbYoaIiox0GU1T4hlgSn5jYmST_-yD4xe2rOjI_XqWlhCb7OphA/s320/sleepy+hollow+20.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729902250049522" /></a><br />Marilyn Monroe!<br />Yay!<br />Oh wait...<br />Mom's not really big on the old Hollywood glamorous bombshell and brothers....<br />No comment on that.<br />These handbags are popping!<br />I'm more of a tote bag over the shoulder gal, but for a night on the town, one of these in hand would be perfect. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCWNOD2Gun56d00BYZHSoUvOEl0LlUJN_QKjLsJ30-Xt7lWgGipKKW2GNXkoXsmThms2Tqwa-6c5dE_18J_le9oitWrHYOmmjaUfgNEtzqf5SCn_weO97zIWkIwsKxXr8gLQRpMgT_Q/s1600/nirvana+5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 161px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRCWNOD2Gun56d00BYZHSoUvOEl0LlUJN_QKjLsJ30-Xt7lWgGipKKW2GNXkoXsmThms2Tqwa-6c5dE_18J_le9oitWrHYOmmjaUfgNEtzqf5SCn_weO97zIWkIwsKxXr8gLQRpMgT_Q/s320/nirvana+5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729586084795842" /></a><br />This tee is soooo beautiful.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOsznXGo0UfQR0Gllf-sI_PTgBpzZSpQJZ5uEXkSDf4ySoq7FHazLDP1mgWw-iszO1Q9Jp9zYoZLmazb6WJ8lNFXG2CTLKp6f06cfhazXxuTLcHdav8M3a0ANTC1zsPLJwIACDI2uJQ/s1600/nirvana+4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 173px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOsznXGo0UfQR0Gllf-sI_PTgBpzZSpQJZ5uEXkSDf4ySoq7FHazLDP1mgWw-iszO1Q9Jp9zYoZLmazb6WJ8lNFXG2CTLKp6f06cfhazXxuTLcHdav8M3a0ANTC1zsPLJwIACDI2uJQ/s320/nirvana+4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729574685671394" /></a><br />A girl always needs a few long maxi dresses in her closet.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnOsnGbO40nalbY1-fDTMUFP6mZ_h3fnWkTBvR59ndLCuRbhDzcEtNivAQ3iGPXgc7N5-JIaQ3x-M_rl3dg1TZXm8jb7VUk40BXW_RrxKnIIDue6eSCDAf-pVdhJ18mcg_YfJmzfFyg/s1600/nirvana+3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnOsnGbO40nalbY1-fDTMUFP6mZ_h3fnWkTBvR59ndLCuRbhDzcEtNivAQ3iGPXgc7N5-JIaQ3x-M_rl3dg1TZXm8jb7VUk40BXW_RrxKnIIDue6eSCDAf-pVdhJ18mcg_YfJmzfFyg/s320/nirvana+3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729575800216946" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxAXFR6MVXNjrBWlLJgi64Xec8EYm-esZOeB3hr6j5M2V7DzPF3jBLYmXzGOoEBeHkVnEeVLpXRuXjftpqltpcR3Lg23TZxY0fuPM5HpBqNWli_6DwTBNHq3u5fmcHwvy27SuGDaeMA/s1600/nirvana+6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxAXFR6MVXNjrBWlLJgi64Xec8EYm-esZOeB3hr6j5M2V7DzPF3jBLYmXzGOoEBeHkVnEeVLpXRuXjftpqltpcR3Lg23TZxY0fuPM5HpBqNWli_6DwTBNHq3u5fmcHwvy27SuGDaeMA/s320/nirvana+6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688729593995028818" /></a><br />And a little reminder that bandannas rock!<br />Whoo hoo!<br />Go get em cowgirl!<br />Since no gifts could be found for the family, off to SHE Fashions- a store that features elegantly designed, rainbow hued dresses, vintage t-shirts, and finely crafted artisan jewelry for the most special of occasions.<br />Many cutesy intricate items that I absolutely adored.<br />Unfortunately, nothing screamed, "Mom would love this!" or "how about this for my brothers?"<br />It was an all "me" situation.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabHBDNgqkhvJHDaSuY6dj9LfWDIcAn4mnkDM-6_HbpQ5Dy4ERJBmbO5x3C6PtKn0YZi8wCDgJPcPK0OcnB4iOTVJgIR7sNqzIwGZgEcgkL-JOMf2WNBXv1a2oqqxNCCdwXAQY3csc9g/s1600/sleepy+hollow+19.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabHBDNgqkhvJHDaSuY6dj9LfWDIcAn4mnkDM-6_HbpQ5Dy4ERJBmbO5x3C6PtKn0YZi8wCDgJPcPK0OcnB4iOTVJgIR7sNqzIwGZgEcgkL-JOMf2WNBXv1a2oqqxNCCdwXAQY3csc9g/s320/sleepy+hollow+19.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688728390488319762" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPDmOr3oCXe0nOusFV72VJALyF-L9wXpjhLBUEdKvDi0i1Sp2MEukihAzpN8fgWtOjmTCUGctAzjstCGXei1ayrqV2fZb9qyfsYSXkSV22OhhcKH6noFtm-0ZR07xPW0pWcu4vtH_7Q/s1600/sleepy+hollow+18.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPDmOr3oCXe0nOusFV72VJALyF-L9wXpjhLBUEdKvDi0i1Sp2MEukihAzpN8fgWtOjmTCUGctAzjstCGXei1ayrqV2fZb9qyfsYSXkSV22OhhcKH6noFtm-0ZR07xPW0pWcu4vtH_7Q/s320/sleepy+hollow+18.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688728393147639698" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tinyurl.com/854sxde style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://tinyurl.com/6qzzhjx border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688726350699243746" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tinyurl.com/76o4jvd style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://tinyurl.com/8y5zype border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687918993070504786" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ydIrywKO7YBMDZOO55EGXVoxr978EzF4-b-MoVvfpjldbYWvbi0qnRaeFC7lQAN-Q6xiAN0ImJLwhJZpXYCU9ZSpU9tCKkGTnNfru34lngUHcg7xRM_LpxGO8ZgCOIpCsRqaz-dvmQ/s1600/sleepy+hollow+9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ydIrywKO7YBMDZOO55EGXVoxr978EzF4-b-MoVvfpjldbYWvbi0qnRaeFC7lQAN-Q6xiAN0ImJLwhJZpXYCU9ZSpU9tCKkGTnNfru34lngUHcg7xRM_LpxGO8ZgCOIpCsRqaz-dvmQ/s320/sleepy+hollow+9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688726335931134194" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzy_CB1qm7Q7HuUpvXGZHIN3MVLobza1Uw6oT8_3aVzLT9nfQsCspVAgMoHdab7n8iBrnJiKNkLz72d0pKQtuBy-GsqgmiU6jsFJLcMwwK8Tcv4llL6c459PyY9CztyUeXxbSl382ow/s1600/sleepy+hollow+3.jpg"><img style="display:block; 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margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5uactuqTlxqYY666BK5twEpy0vIm3AAvI9H1_hI9cWyrZpw4qH0QS7bLqiE3Uae2ByxZnhupCK5x8VSW5ws8Z76N1jut3PHkNnJoz6oHXMAadtlFldnxvYApxTK3pBtOFkHIDnCSIQ/s320/sleepy+hollow+14.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687920493556644994" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tinyurl.com/c95bb2m style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://tinyurl.com/cmtyzg6 border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687918994193679986" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJimNSyc_PXKDDaeDlpNTFZ4-BySvGwckKUceAqXdtd5krTpTxMi3Are1OD8doZSRNEpws-OWbbVxxDxLJ-9GzT4mTltlYrkdTbVLNj8k3hlaoEoCeP0nFEtJs7EGScceuUfbdSxQSOw/s1600/sleepy+hollow+12.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJimNSyc_PXKDDaeDlpNTFZ4-BySvGwckKUceAqXdtd5krTpTxMi3Are1OD8doZSRNEpws-OWbbVxxDxLJ-9GzT4mTltlYrkdTbVLNj8k3hlaoEoCeP0nFEtJs7EGScceuUfbdSxQSOw/s320/sleepy+hollow+12.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687919002183062434" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi60Gk6kXNuFUrAP32cyTHcztt8XhFmTdj2ZpLUdu0Sfbfft8I3jFFyLZ4OKjqM_cUz8zazQI8BuqDTOdu8xj8d4soADV5VysvlSP1OxKVwiYXua3-RuTE6AoDhyphenhyphendaW6O1SwgZn-NfIKg/s1600/sleepy+hollow+13.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi60Gk6kXNuFUrAP32cyTHcztt8XhFmTdj2ZpLUdu0Sfbfft8I3jFFyLZ4OKjqM_cUz8zazQI8BuqDTOdu8xj8d4soADV5VysvlSP1OxKVwiYXua3-RuTE6AoDhyphenhyphendaW6O1SwgZn-NfIKg/s320/sleepy+hollow+13.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687919000963096498" /></a><br />Nothing there either.<br />Leaving empty handed, I couldn't help thinking that Christmas time is difficult!Fem Film Roguehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05621231918425506717noreply@blogger.com2