10 AM - breakfast with Olga, an “art buddy” from high school, and her son. We were the fun-loving, grounded, creative girls who crossed the boundaries of cliques but maybe didn’t know how hard it would be to be an artist in the real world. I was reminded that life is too short not to be honest, with ourselves, and with those we love. (And that a cocktail of OJ + cream + lemon makes mom nauseous and Nikko giggle.)
12 – a drive down Magnificent Miles to revist Seward Johnson’s “Forever Marilyn”. Like a car wreck, I can’t help looking at her every time I go to Chicago. My judgement: it’s still a terrible piece of public art and tourists will do anything for a photo. (But I still don’t understand why people want to pose under the vagina of a 26’ statue?!)
26' tall
12:30 – From XXL to XXS…a visit to the Thorne Miniature Rooms at Art Institute of Chicago. Take away: what you don’t see can be more intriguing than what you do see. (I’m hoping to incorporate the illusion of light from other room(s) in my next room/installation.)
Scale: 1" to 1'
2 – Reflexology with Eric the Healing Samurai. We catch up like old friends and I think I’m not “getting” anything but a foot rub. Hours later I realize I have clarity in my thoughts and more compassion in my heart. Chakras opened? Reminder from our conversation: go for what you want; no is rarely the final answer.
4 PM – Restretching and installation of “I’m Not that Bold” at the home of new friends Katherine, Nick and their adorable two-year-old Chloe. I’m honored to have this particular painting, a transition piece for me, with them. My goal: to make my paintings look as spontaneous and carefree as a two year old's. (Chloe’s drawing is on the coffee table along with our mutual muse: Winnie the Poo! “If the person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear.”)
"I Like Your Nail Polish/ I'm Not that Bold", 2011. Oil on canvas. 58"x58"