"I wish I were the moon tonight"

"The Evolution of Discovery"

By Jennifer S.

November 2009

Paper Collage

This is one of my newest works titled "The Evolution of Discovery." To me, it is based on my own self reflection at this point in my life and debating the vital aspects (both negative and positive) of who I am as an individual. It is about thinking and answering the important and simple question of "Who am I?" I realize that this is something that I won't figure out overnight but I am enjoying the process. Within the collage, I have attempted to use images that reflect the difficulties and joys of this adventure. There is confusion, fear, warmth, curiosity, science, mythicism and of course, humor involved. Everyone needs laughter to survive!

Now onto the amazing, Neko Case! Neko has one of those poignant voices that enters your heart and soul and moves you till tears are running down your face. Whether those tears are of joy or sorrow depends on the song of course. But all week long, I have been playing on repeat "I wish I were the moon" off of her album Blacklisted. It elicits a tone of loneliness that is felt through the simple melody, intense lyrics and of course, Neko's strong voice. I can't help but be moved by this short song. I am posting a link to a live version of this gem and I truly hope that you all see how amazing this singer is.

Alright Everyone, off to make some homemade pumpkin pie! Happy Turkey day one and all!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fhur6g8_BM

xoxo

Jenny

Thanksgiving Time Baby!

Wow, how much I love Fall (or autumn if you prefer)! The smell, the colors of the leaves changing, the chill in the air, the fresh produce that comes into the supermarket! Well that final one has really gave me inspiration to cook. I have always enjoyed Butternut Squash soup so I decided to conquer it on the stove. The golden yellow of butternut squash is just a beautiful joy. I don't care what people say, but colors provide happiness in life. They brighten up your day literally!

Just take a look at this squash chopped up! Gorgeous darlings! Anywho the recipe I used was rather simple and included the squash, 1 onion, chicken stock, some nutmeg, salt, pepper and just a little butter! I was surprised that cream wasn't used and that is took less than 1 hour to make! You can have this and a salad and be satisfied for hours! Try making it for Thanksgiving since it is a great way to celebrate the Fall!

Here is the final product. Almost all gone! And I will leave you a lovely photo of the pomegranate I picked up. Talk about a sweet and beautiful snack! Cheers and have a great Thanksgiving One and All!

Peace and Love,

Jenny

Beauty in the Basement

If there is one blessing to a family full of women, it is the amount of vintage items one can find in a dark basement. One day while rummaging through a closet in my grandmother's house, I came across this beautiful silk Kimono from Japan. I am not sure how it ended up in my family's possession but the beauty of the fabric blew my breath away (and not just from the dust that has accumulated over the years!) When looking closely at the garment, the primary colors have remained bright and stand out from the beige background. The details on each flower are impeccable and I wish the photo was of better quality so you all can see! But take a look at the simple lines and dots that create texture and depth to the image. In a way it gives this kimono a realistic feel despite the cartoonish projection. I have noticed and admired this cartoonish quality of Japanese art for the past year. In fact my first introduction was to the woodblock prints of Hiroshige at the MFA in Boston. Despite depicting reality, there is this sense of fantasy to some of the art. Colors are heightened and simple lines keep the details present and complex looking. This is what art is to me- a way of interpreting your own reality in a unique way. As I leave you, take a look at this website, http://www.hiroshige.org.uk/ . It is a great introduction to Japanese Woodblock Prints.

Peace,

Jenny