"American" History

In light of Independence Day and our observance of our American heritage, I thought it would be interesting to discuss the Native peoples of this land prior to the arrival of explorers and pilgrims. It coincides with the lesson this week as we discuss non-Western cultures like China, India, and the Americas which I will put in quotes when I'm making reference to this land prior to the arrival of Europeans in the 15th Century.

Civilizations thrived and were technologically advanced in the "Americas." One example is Peru. Among other advances, Peruvians were very interested in astronomy and time. Observatories still exist in that region and were strategically places to study the stars including the sun. In addition to studying for agricultural reasons, understanding celestial patterns were cause for celebration.  They developed calendars as well as geoglyphs in the shape of geometrical shapes. The following article does a great job of detailing these advancements, uses, and how they've survived into today. Check it out!

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/03/160317-spring-vernal-equinox-astronomy-native-american/

Kehinde Wiley is Coming to Richmond

I'm so excited about this exhibit, I'm about to explode! His works are breathtaking and move you beyond your personal limits. I feel every brush stroke when I'm looking at his paintings as well as connect with each subject. It is truly spiritual! I'm so happy that Kehinde gets to experience his renown in his lifetime. Unlike some of my other favorite artists who knew not how well loved their works would be and struggled during their lives further informing their art that touches so many. How I love my friend Vincent van Gogh. But, I digress.

The Ambassadors (1533) Holbein

The Ambassadors is one of my favorite paintings because it looks like a photograph taken to the next level. Kehinde serves up the same beautiful imagery and color in his massive oil paintings. His subjects leave a legacy of sometimes contradictory images juxtaposed in a way that removes the contradiction and shifts the viewers perspective.

Napolean Crossing the Alps (1801) David

My favorite so far...but that will surely change once I get to view the whole exhibit!

Kehinde Wiley: New Republic will be at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts from June 11 until September 5, 2016. Your summer will never be the same!