Michelle and I got a chance to get out of the loop and see some autumn scenery today. Best ten dollars ever spent. Apple orchard, pumpkin patch, corn maze... autumn is the greatest. Bottom line.
Especially in today's multilayered, multitasked environment, even artists no longer dwell in singular disciplines. Especially here at SAIC it's not about what you specialize in, it's how much you specialize in. We've become a world of dabblers. A prime example of this is Anne Arden McDonald. I was first blown away by her jewelry -- natural and organic forms I found very unique. But then went I went to her site, I realized that she was not a jeweler or a photographer or a sculptor or a talented eye in the world of contemporary installation. She is all these things. And you should see it for herself. There's a reason she'd an out of business cards by the time I stumbled into her booth.
For those known for their incessant need to record in their Moleskine, good news is here. Randl / Chikabird, a handmade clothing and accessory company creates wallets, refillable notebook covers, and screen-printed clothing for everyone. And they have an Etsy store, so geography is no longer an excuse.
In hopes of remedying my ghost-town of a blog, I am now back on the post train. Finally settled in the city (after what three weeks?) I find it is time to share some of the experiences I've been having and some of the things I've seen.
The highlight of my day today was the Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago's Wicker Park. For those who missed, I'll give a short summary (and some great links) to enjoy.
(noun) "A postulated unit of cultural ideas, symbols or practices, which can be transmitted from one mind to another through speech, gestures, rituals or other imitable phenomena. Supporters of the concept regard memes as cultural analogues to genes, in that they self-replicate and respond to selective pressures."