Herstory : Erica...Celebrating Bad Ass Women!

Today I celebrate Erica. 

She is this glorious, wise and witty woman. 

I met her at a time I needed her most...and did not even know it yet! 

To this day she stays in my head and my heart!

She makes me so happy with her brilliance and vibrancy, even when it is a little twisted!  

So, cheers to you wicked woman of the west!

Herstory : Libya...Celebrating Bad Ass Women!

 Today I celebrate Libya!

 She is an artist teacher enriching the lives of elementary school students while simultaneously engaging in the betterment of her community as an advocate for productive change! 

I met her so many years ago when I first arrived here...she exuded confidence and calm! 

We crossed paths again a couple of years later and she was an exquisite model for my own creative explorations.

 This last weekend I had the pleasure of listening to her moderate a panel on the future of art education at the National Art Education Association conference in New York City! The Challenge of Change: Embracing the Future of Art Education.

This gal is certainly one to watch...and if you are lucky enough have a conversation!

Visiting the Edge

Ground Rules

Today I had the pleasure of attending an artist talk at the National Gallery of Art.  

Theaster Gates was visiting the Gallery today in advance of his show: Minor Arts. He is an amazing person!  He is the 4th living artist to have a solo show at the National Gallery of Art!  He spoke so eloquently about his life's experiences and how that has informed his art. This man is an incredible artist, urban planner, advocate, story teller & teacher. 

Theaster Gates discussed learning at an early age that self-sufficiency rules. The ability to convert and utilize the skillset you have so you can survive makes for a very rich life. 

He elaborated on his observations on artists. Artists no longer need to be singular and specific...they should play with all modes and mediums...

Use of materials should not limit what can be created...and then use what you know to leave your environment better than you found it! Superb and sound advice in 2017.

I was so moved and enthralled by his life thus far, I am a fan and will continue to learn more…and grow with what he has inspired…

Celebrating Regional Scholastic Art Awards!

The state of American Education...

Shaking off the week...

This week ended the first semester. Imagine frantic students stressing about what was not turned in and the realization that  there are no more chances this go around...the final bell rings and then suddenly quiet hallways. So quiet.

I found myself wanting to take my camera out and capture those same students blowing off steam and enjoying the weekend! I grabbed my camera gear, husband and my own kids and headed to the basketball court where the players and fans did not disappoint!!! Best high school game I have ever watched!

Fast moving game...each team matching point for point...resulting in a double overtime even a righteous Hail Mary!!! Final score 64-56, Cougars beat the Chargers!

Hawaiian Night at the Cougar Den  

Love this capture by my husband...me in my natural habitat doing my thing...