Tag: Inspired by

Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman” is a powerful ode to self-assurance and female empowerment. In the poem, Angelou celebrates her own unique beauty and presence, rejecting conventional standards of attractiveness. Instead of conforming to society’s expectations, she revels in her own essence and exudes confidence in her identity as a woman. Through her words, Angelou encourages other women to embrace their own uniqueness and recognize their inherent worth, regardless of external judgments or pressures.

Jeffrey Gibson’s work is undeniably inspiring! His fusion of traditional Native American materials and techniques with non traditional substrates like punching bags creates a vibrant and thought-provoking visual language. As I delve into my own artistic practice, I’m drawn to Gibson’s bold use of color, pattern, and texture, as well as his exploration of identity and cultural heritage. His ability to blend diverse materials into cohesive and evocative artworks encourages me to push the boundaries of my own creativity and explore new ways of expressing my ideas.

“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

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. 

Sonya Clark: Tatter, Bristle, and Mend

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

Who knew you could turn juicy mangos into vegan leather? #magic

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.