It’s about the 5th time since I’ve listened to “Citizen” tonight.
The greenline is special. But it’s even more special after 3 p.m. In the late afternoon, the Vollintine and Evergreen stretch of greenline becomes filled with warm sunlight filtering through the trees. Star-shaped honeysuckle petals cover the ground. Distracted children pour out of Snowden Elementary and leave traces of their steps with a trail of flaming-hot Cheetos. And who could miss Rhodes College student Graham Smart’s Big Kids with flower pots sticking out of their heads at the west end of the V&E? Memphis is getting its cool back!
Thanks to the steady revitalization of Broad Avenue and the artistic talents of world recognized French artist Guillaume Alby, Memphis is getting more artsy. If you want to check out Alby’s bold, geometrical work, drive by 2542 Broad Avenue and see some live painting. Alby will be in Memphis for two weeks or so. If vous parlez Français, shout out a ‘Bienvenue’ to Alby, like I did this afternoon. It was a little embarrassing for me (my French is very countrified), but it made him smile.
F is for February. No, F is for frijoles. Zut! I can’t believe 365 days ago I was basking in the Nicaraguan sun, eating frijoles, fried cheese and fish. If you’ve ever been to the land of lakes and volcanoes or you like beans, download any or all of these 1680X1050 desktop calendars for yourself. Oh la la!
Trepidation aside, my friend and I ventured into the opening reception for James Inscho’s new work: Für, at Material Art Space on Broad Avenue. It was quite a memorable experience. Walking into a room covered in white fur—what a way to start the weekend. The floors, the walls, all covered in fur. Before we entered we were encouraged to slip on a pair of stylish blue medical booties. As soon as my freshly covered feet hit the fur covered floor, moon walking seemed the most obvious choice for me. Of course, shortly after taking in the art on the walls, albeit the fur was a bit distracting, we drank wine and did a little chit-chatting. My friend talked thrift-store speak with a young man who wore an interesting tie. This same young man had earlier chucked at the shocked expressions on our faces when we were told we’d have to slip on the disposable smurf shoes before entering the exhibit.