A perfect afternoon

 

Since landing in Chicago, I haven't been doing much handwork to speak of (that would be *exactly none*) so I've been a little ambivalent about posting with nothing to show.  Although I've been regularly out & about in the city, it somehow seems a bit self-indulgent to think people show up here to see how I've spent my day if it doesn't include something remotely art or textile related.  But yesterday was a red-letter day on both counts!  A *good friend whom I had never met* came to town and we met at 'the bean' where we posed for a few photos together, thanks to her forethought in bringing along her husband to chronicle the event.  (Great shots, Mr. K!!)  We then parted ways with him and headed to a fantastic collage show, right across the street at the Chicago Cultural Center.

  

A couple of years ago while browsing the bookstore at the Museum of American Folk Art in NYC, I came across two books featuring Tony Fitzpatrick's work.  Loaded with detail, painted and pasted, it jumped off the pages and hit me right between the eyes.  As with most artwork, the originals are so much more engaging...mesmerizing, actually.  Smaller than I'd expected, they are all approximately the same size, around 10" x 14".  You could truly lose yourself (and time) gazing into these complex little worlds, though on this visit, we were chatting while we browsed.  The show includes over 40 pieces and although it closes next weekend, I'd highly recommend it if you happen to be in the city this week.  I've already been twice and will probably stop by again.  Maybe I'll see you there!

We stopped for lunch at the closest place we could find to continue our visit and hardly took a breath as we gabbed the afternoon away.  And just as I suspected might happen, we ran out of time well before we ran out of conversation.  But we're already looking forward to her next visit, when I can host her at my home (God willing, I'll have one by then) and entertain her among my stacks of fabrics & buttons & ribbons & trims.  So, who was my afternoon companion?

 

Mimi K!  Aren't you jealous?  (Thanks, Mimi...it was so much fun!!)  

Comments

[mathea]

Do post even though you aren't doing anything craft-related - I'm sure I'm not the only one eagerly awaiting news about how you are finding life in a new city. Looks like you had a great day with Mimi!

[Schnoobie]

Love that BEAN!!! So glad to see you are living it up in the Windy City!!
Please do keep us included in your new adventures( handwork or not!)Looks like you girls had a great visit!

[molly!]

I can't tell--was it raining or is that umbrella just an accessory?

[blackbird]

Seething with envy AM I.

[Clare]

I've seen photos of The Bean on various blogs and have fallen in love with it.

Please keep posting.

[Carole]

I'll come here to read about whatever you're doing!

[KathieB]

How great to be right in the city where it's relatively easy to get to a favorite exhibit three times. Wish I could attend this one--looks like my kind of art.

[sonja poor]

Well, yes, I am jealous. I love Mimi's blog and her fabulous creations. And I also always enjoy yours as well whether you're creating something OR just telling how you spent your day.

[Leslie]

Ooh, The Bean. Very cool!

[Chris]

Sounds fun - and the Bean shuts are excellent!

[Sacredartist]

I've just tagged you to do a meme. Hope you'll have time for it, as I'd really enjoy knowing you better. You can read about it on my blog here at www.sacredartist.blogspot.com

I just love your art! Have fun.

[mary jane]

Thanks for introducing me to Tony Fitzpatrick, a real gem.

[s]

hello jan!
it looks like you and mimi had some wonderful "live" time... yes! i am jealous - i missed mimi when she popped into our gallery last year
the bean photos are wonderful and the Tony Fitzpatrick show must have been outstanding!
susan

[Ann]

Love your blog (http://pinnehobby.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.html#2004265278693386716) even if it is on other stuff than craft
Take care :)