AVAM

It’s been over two years since I last visited the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM). The museum consists of two buildings connected by a walkway, and features a variety of abstract art installations, including a massive egg made of shimmering mosaic glass pieces.

The installations in the first building are typically temporary displays, each with a different theme. For example, one section focused on sports. The second building houses the iconic giant pink dog that AVAM is known for.

What I appreciate most about AVAM is that it showcases artwork from self-taught, visionary artists. As an untrained artist myself, it’s encouraging to know there’s a place where people like me can be celebrated.

One of the highlights of my visit was seeing my son’s reactions, especially when he saw the giant pink dog for the first time. His expressions were priceless.

If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend going in the spring or summer. The museum is close to the harbor and surrounded by coffee shops, making it a perfect spot for a day outing.

Idlewild

I decided to name my most recent art piece “Idlewild”. I’ve been reading “The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows” by John Koenig…which I’ll write about in another post if I ever finish.  Nonetheless, this is how the author defined idlewild:

“ (Adj.) Feeling grateful to be stranded in a place where you can’t do much of anything—sitting for hours at an airport gate, the sleeper car of a train, or the backseat of a van on a long road trip—which temporarily alleviates the burden of being able to do anything at any time and frees up your brain to do whatever it wants to do, even if it’s just to flicker your eyes across the passing landscape.”

I used to have more “idlewild” time. During that time, I was able to zone out and draw when the world was quiet. Sometimes, I’m able to draw during bus or plane rides but people get inquisitive which generally makes me feel conscious or distracted.

As a mom, there aren’t many quiet private moments. However, of recent, I started something called “Quiet Hour” with my son. We put on music and do art. The ability to do something we both love, at the same time, feels like spring for the soul….an evolution. ☺️ I was pleasantly surprised at how effective and productive we were.  During the holiday block - Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year - I was finally able to make substantial progress on this piece that was sitting unattended for almost a year.

My drawings need to stem from my subconscious in order to get into the flow. Idlewild as a title is fitting because I had the mental freedom and even with distractions, I was able to find my way back.

Dopamine Land

Hello Friends!

We took a trip to Dopamine Land in Washington, DC and  it was quite a fun experience!

I’m sure most of you know what dopamine is, but for those who don’t - dopamine is simply referred to as the “happy hormone”. For a more scientific explanation (sorry I can’t help myself), dopamine is a hormone and neurotransmitter that serves as  a “reward center”. It also partakes in various other functions including mood, attention, motivation and memory.

I’ve seen the promotions for Dopamine Land on social media and I suspected I would love it.  Fortunately, they did not disappoint.  I knew my son would love it… you can’t go wrong with colors, lights, disco balls, art and music. It sounds like it might be  “too much” but it’s really not. I would describe it as bite size yet moreish interactive sensory experiences…caviar for the senses if you may. They create different sensory experiences in different rooms and, even with a guide map, every room feels like a creative surprise.

It’s adult and child friendly and I would recommend it especially if you are looking for a fun, creative and interactive experience.

Iwájú

Hello Friends!

Time for a show recommendation… I finally got a chance to watch Iwájú with my son and I think everyone else should watch it too.☺️The series was released in February of 2024 so, I am a bit late…but better late than never.

Iwájú is a futuristic animated series set in Lagos, Nigeria. Iwájú means “in the future” in Yoruba, so the title is quite fitting.

Disney and Kugali Media did an absolutely amazing job maintaining accurate representation of Nigerians. They nailed the Pidgin English, the accent, clothes, hair texture, puff-puff and plantain chips….just to name a few! It was evident that they received appropriate cultural consultation. (I’m itching to list movies that fell short on accurate cultural representation. However, I won’t indulge because we are keeping things positive in this space.☺️)

The storyline was delightfully engaging. Being invested in the characters is always a good indication of a good storyline. The futuristic details were appropriate for the environmental setting and amazingly creative. The hairstyle machine was my favorite part of the introductory episode. A machine that lets you pick a hairstyle and completes it expeditiously?? What a dream!

This show got me thinking about how various cultural representations in the entertainment industry can be enriching particularly for children. When it’s done well, it can have a positive impact on how children view themselves and the world.

So…if you haven’t watched Iwájú , I highly recommend it. There are six episodes and it was difficult not to binge it all in one sitting. I hope Disney and Kugali Media release a second season!

Love always,

Numero Uno

Hello Friends!

I recently decided to add a blog section to my webpage. I maintained a blog a whole decade ago. Since then, I haven’t had (or made) time to write. However, I recently realized that I actually miss blogging. I miss writing my thoughts in a meaningful way without the noise and distraction of social media.

It’s a new year and I figured it won’t hurt to start again. Similar to my previous blog, I’ll share thoughts on art, music, movies, books, etc. The post will likely be short and sweet…’cos mama ain’t got time. ☺️

Till next time!

Love,

Ify