Things I Learned This Week
Wildfire, Virginia Woof, Lee Miller, Whitfield Lovell, and good 'ole Jimmy
It’s hard to stay hopeful on the eve of upheaval. I have to keep believing that redemption lies in learning and helping when you can. I’ve been so busy taking care of my own shit that it’s hard to see the people outside of my own life who are struggling so much more than me. We need to help in whatever way we can— from the micro (on Christmas Eve, my sister—who doesn’t have much—toted dozens of hamburgers out to those out in the cold) to the macro (see Jimmy Carter write up below). Those who can should help the people in California whose homes and livelihoods have been destroyed. World Central Kitchen is helping feed the newly homeless, and you can donate to California community funds that are helping on the ground. All the celebrity homes burning up on the news are surrounded and supported by a community of hard workers and regular folks who will be adrift without help. That said, I did learn a few things this week…
Watched the movie Lee about Lee Miller, the WWII photographer who famously photographed liberated concentration camps and took a bath in Hitler’s tub on the day he died. It's such a great story that I’d either never heard before or forgotten. Miller’s home in Sussex is now a museum and gallery, housing her photographic work and other modern and contemporary artists. Plus, ten thumbs up for female directors and for Kate Winslet flashing her fabulous near-50 tits and generally being fearless.
Saw the best museum show I’ve seen in a while. Whitfield Lovell at the McNay Museum. Paintings, charcoal on old barn wood and found items, and installations that speak to African American heritage and history. Originally from the Bronx, Lovell’s art speaks directly to Virginia and the American South and hits a lot of very personal spots for me. Featuring several decisive periods of work along with two installations, the show highlights the journey of freedom-seekers crossing the Tennessee River during the Civil War along with drawings on a deep red that evoke power and presence. It’s only on view for ten more days, so if you are in SATX, get over there.
Jimmy Carter was a badass, but we already knew that. I don’t have anything new to tell you now that we are burying the most philanthropic former leader of the free world. Just remember, the Carter Center will continue Jimmy’s legacy with health and peace programs at home and around the world. Jimmy was known to use music to bridge cultures (note his friendships with Dylan and Willie) and religions, often utilizing the group Song Rise to Thee, who can be seen at his funeral performing Amazing Grace here. God speed Hot Shot.
Last cultural note: I was happy to see Gromit reading a copy of A Room of One’s Own by Virginia “Woof” in his latest feature film. ;)
Finally, I feel guilty refreshing my computer this week religiously to no end for MFA programs that will not be posting anything for at least a few weeks. I am relieved school will be starting back up so I can be distracted by work, and I remain thankful to be here staring down the aisle toward graduation. I am not sure what the future holds for me, but I am grateful for this time to focus on my family and me.
Quote of the week?
“War may sometimes be a necessary evil. But no matter how necessary, it is always an evil, never a good. We will not learn how to live together in peace by killing each other's children.” — Jimmy Carter
‘Til Tuesday kids.
Burgin
(I’m finishing college at 50+, follow along and read my story here.)