Last week was the closing of the bizarre collaboration of post-conceptual artists at the Stamp Art Gallery, which was replaced by works by MFA graduate students here at the University of Maryland. Again, it is an exhibition of pieces of different mediums: photography, installations and video monitors are all included.


The most centrally located piece within the gallery is my favorite--a work of plywood two-by-fours stacked upon bare wood saw horses. The bright hue of this stack comes from an ordinary household object: a ball-point pen. Artist Alexander Peace makes a bold statement about the strength of color and his use of a single shade is extreme. I'm most attracted to the natural shading and concentrations of color that are due to the warp and grain of the wood.


I can only imagine how much time this installation took to create, and I am in awe of the artists' ability to think creatively, meshing together fine arts with office supplies.



MIDPOINT runs from April 14th through May 13th and is located at the Stamp Student Union Gallery, at the University of Maryland.

3 hours and counting until the royal wedding and everyone here at the White House (our less than-Presidential suite off-campus) is ready to see the gown of the century. That may  be an exaggeration, but by the looks of the massive crowds lined up by Westminster Abbey, we aren't alone. Over the past weeks, Kate's style has been compared to the iconographic fashion of Princess Diana, a natural comparison between to women of grace and classic composure. In my internet browsing I came across this article with both women's most similar fashions. Clearly Kate has replicated some key details of Diana's style, but a classic piece is a classic piece is a classic piece, and this elements all seem like wardrobe stables to me.
Regardless, these serve as great examples for styling and show the perfect balance of refinery and risk-taking.

bisous,

Another Thursday discovery was made off of Connecticut Avenue, at BGR: the Burger Joint.
In the mood for decadent, over-the-top burgers to bring us back to life, we ended up at this fucky, music-themed restaurant and made the best discovery of the week: a futuristic soda machine with every flavor imaginable. 







The touchscreen was a surprise to me, and I ogled over the amount of choices, until I realized this was only the first of many screen selections.










My beloved Diet Coke was hiding a few more tricks up its' robotic-sleeves. I was boring and stuck with plain, but did sip on some Peach-flavored goodness. I wasn't brave enough to commit to 32 ounces of it though.








I was so intrigued by this contraption and a bit of internet research informed me that it was actually a 2009-dated invention, the Coca-Cola "Freestyle" with over 100 flavor choices.


Check out the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine at http://www.coca-colafreestyle.com/
Cure your hangover with a customized burger order at BGR burger, 1514 Connecticut Avenue, NW.

These stunners come from the Fall 2010 Balenciaga collection and captured my attention immediately. The color-blocking and three dimensionality of the stacked heel are particularly interesting. Plus, the unexpected peek of added yellow socks are fun. Overall the aesthetics of the pair are reminiscent of artistic movement of cubism, not only due to the sheer physical elements.



I could not help of be reminded by the work of Pablo Picasso, in particular his work entitled, Guitars, dated from 1913.

I love the bright teal background which always reminds me of a close friend who always chooses teal, when given the option. The deep brown color of the curved pattern mirrors the dark leather of the shoe.

While both are out of my price-range, these distinct pieces show the relationship between fashion and art, not always acknowledged.

This morning while waiting in a nearly door-busting line for coffee I spotted an Hermes Birkin bag. Less than bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, I did a double take a realized that it was not the beloved "It-bag" but rather, a printed tote inspired by the fashionable purse.


It's not leather--it's a printed canvas tote. The "Together" tote by Thursday Friday is all over teh fashion, written up by loving fans in the New York Times, Glamour Magazine, even Elle and Daily Mail are singing its' praises.

Considering the fact that I will never, ever be able to afford the real thing, I figure these roomy totes are a great alternative, and I'll feel way less bad when a pen explodes in the bottom.


The creative geniuses at Hermes aren't so thrilled, and have sued for copyright infringement. Protecting intellectual property can be difficult in fashion and design, so it will be interesting to see how the case is resolved. Ethical or not, I can't help but entertain the idea of buying one. After seeing one in person I have definite bag-envy. If only I could choose one color!

bisous,

The Textile Museum's Opening Reception of the exhibition, Green: the Color and the Cause, the past Friday was a success. Over three hundred members were in attendance of the opening, celebrating the colorful and environmental focus of the TM's latest project. The lovely weather allowed guests to also enjoy the beautiful garden and amazing view of the city. I highly encourage everyone in the D.C. Metropolitan area to view the exhibit, which opened Saturday, April 16th and will run until September 11th.




As always, the ubiquitous reading-child photograph.

This past weekend I went to the National Cherry Blossom festival in D.C. with some friends. In the true spirit of procrastination I waited until the last day to metro in to see the blossoms, but luckily the universe rewarded me: the Kite Festival had been rescheduled to Sunday, a fun surprise.

The weather was beautiful--a nice change from week of dreary rain--tons of people showed up to enjoy the festivities. Tons of colorful kites and kids were out an about, along with the cutest dogs in all of D.C.

On our way across the National Mall to see the multitude of kites by the Washington Monument we saw a giant tent swathed in pink banners and giant cherry blossom ornaments. Naturally we had to stop, and realizing it was the Performance Stage at the Sylvan Theater, we stuck around to check out a step show. As an uncoordinated dancer, I've always been intrigued and entertained by step shows and this performance was amazing. The team, Step Afrika! was great: energetic, talented, and so friendly. Audience participation was heavily encouraged but I decided against it--for the sake of everyone around me.

Step Afrika! is the official cultural ambassador of Washington, DC, and deservedly so. Their show lasted almost an hour, and was so much fun.


Step Afrika! is group of dancers who tour and teach classes. Read more about them at www.stepafrika.org/home.htm