“Ideas may come from anywhere, anything, anytime, anyplace. For the most part, however, I believe that they spring from rather unromantic, sometimes unexpected, or even unsavory sources. The artist is a collector of things imaginary or real. He accumulates things with the same enthusiasm that a little boy stuffs his pockets. The scrap heap and the museum—embraced with equal curiosity. He takes snapshots, makes notes, records impressions on tablecloths or newspapers, on backs of envelopes or matchbooks. Why one thing and not another is part of the mystery, but he is omnivorous.”
Paul Rand: A Designer’s Art
Inspired by…. Sonya Clark
Textile and social practice artist Sonya Clark is renowned for her mixed-media works that address race and visibility, explore Blackness, and redress history. This online exhibition—the first survey of Clark’s 25-year career—includes the artist’s well-known sculptures made from black pocket combs, human hair, and thread as well as works created from flags, currency, beads, cotton plants, pencils, books, a typewriter, and a hair salon chair.
Close Your Eyes and Listen …
Sitting on my deck, enjoying the gentle warmth of the raindrops on my skin, I closed my eyes, letting myself be carried away by the soothing rhythm of the rain. Suddenly, my peaceful moment was interrupted by a unfamiliar sound. It was Amazon, shuffling through a playlist by Herbie Hancock, and then I heard “The Jungle Line.”
Intrigued, I opened my eyes and asked Alexa for more information. She told me it was from Herbie Hancock’s album “River: The Joni Letters,” released in 2007 as a tribute to Joni Mitchell. I couldn’t believe I hadn’t discovered this song or album before.
As the music continued, I found myself drawn in by its complexity. Joni Mitchell’s lyrics vividly depicted the blend of urban life and natural wilderness, while Leonard Cohen’s distinctive recitation added depth. And then there was Hancock’s skillful keyboard work, weaving intricate rhythms and atmospheric sounds together.
In moments like these, when the rain and music merged, I felt a profound connection to something greater – a fusion of nature and melody. It served as a powerful reminder of the unexpected beauty that can be found in simple moments of life.
Inspired By: Tom Van der Borght
I was going down a rabbit hole looking at images of masquerade costumes when I stumbled upon Tom Van der Borght’s work and was stopped in my tracks. WOW. I love his use of beads, zipties and paracord. It makes me rethink how i uses these same materials in my own work
Turning Mangoes into Leather
Who knew you could turn juicy mangos into vegan leather? #magic
Inspired By: Pinaffo & Pluvinage’s En Cascade
This installation is so compelling and gets me thinking… The whirring panels animating Pinaffo & Pluvinage’s cardboard installation are powered solely by sand!!!!
Watch below and rabbit hole of wonder here.
The Best Of Old School Soca mixed by DJ STYLEZ
I’m often asked what I’m listening to in the studio while I work. There’s nothing like the energy of classic soca tunes to elevate my artistic spirit.
Distant familiar tunes from yesteryears carry memories and stories, creating a nostalgic atmosphere in the studio. It’s like taking a trip down memory lane while I’m in the zone, allowing me to tap into a reservoir of emotions that enriches my creative process.
Next time you find me in the studio, you can bet these classic soca vibes will be echoing through the threads and colors. 🎵🎨
Holiday… ah can’t see
The song “Holiday” by Problem Child is crazy viral in my Caribbean social algorithm with hundreds of videos with mega views, so why doesn’t the music video have more views?
The song is destined to be a 2024 Carnival monster hit, so show some love to “Holiday” and crank those views up… #obsessed
Confessions of a Guilty Pleasure: Pumpa’s “The A List” Takes Over My Playlist
I’m here to admit something that some might consider a guilty pleasure, but honestly, I couldn’t care less because Pumpa’s “The A List” is a total vibe, and I’m ready to shout it from the rooftops!
It all started one night on the boardwalk in Christiansted harbor St. Croix. “The A List” was blasting from one of the bars and hit me like a ton of bricks. Before I knew it, I found myself succumbing to the irresistible urge to wind my waist and bend right ova, just like the song instructed. I must say, it was a transcendent moment – a blend of infectious beats and an undeniable call to dance that I couldn’t resist.
The catchy lyrics and the energetic rhythm of the song quickly turned “The A List” into an ear worm that refuses to leave my head. It’s the kind of track that plays on a loop in your mind, and honestly, I’m not complaining. I’ve fully embraced the obsession, and I’m not afraid to admit my name ends with an A, so… bend right ova.
And then came the music video – an absolute visual feast that took my fascination to a whole new level. The athleticism of the dancers leave me in awe. I have to give major props to these talented ladies mind-boggling moves. At my age, attempting to replicate most of these dance moves is a major a stretch, but who cares? The video is a celebration of movement, freedom, and pure joy, and I can’t help but be inspired to try.
Sure, I may catch some heat for publicly declaring my love for this song and video, but guess what? I don’t care. “The A List” has a magnetic pull, and I’m proudly surrendering to its rhythm. As St. Thomas Carnival season approaches, I can’t help but daydream about being in the midst of the festivities, fully equipped with my feather back pack and enthusiastic attempts to wind it up.