Artist Yui Kugimiya discussed her process and several of her works, including Cat Brushing Teeth, last night at the Everson Museum of Art.
This is the second artist talk we’ve seen for the UVP series. We look forward to the technological upgrades that will make it possible to watch films and artist talks while riding the Connective Corridor buses (not just from the window, but projected inside maybe) since gathering in the Everson Plaza is not always favorable in February.
Griot Vanessa Johnson (left) coaxing a student performance during an open-air performance on the Southside about 10 years ago.
Today we recognize Syracuse storyteller Vanessa Johnson. Ms. Johnson is also an actor, writer and quilt-maker.
Mozart from Philly (now residing in Syracuse)
One of the best elements that make up the city are immigrants. Not just folks from other nations, but those from other states as well. Immigrants bring their idioms, swagger, energy and experiences to add to the Syracuse stew.
We previously heard about the power of Mozart Guerrier from some students we met this summer, but last night was the first time we caught him in performance. He was the featured poet at last night’s Open Mic for the Underground Poetry Spot, which was held at 601 Tully (aka the Treehouse).
Part of Mozart’s slam list included a humorous appreciation of Coach Jim Boeheim, a shout out to Amiri Baraka, and also a verbal ode to the beauty of living and loving in cities. We suggest contacting Seneca Wilson and the Underground Poetry Spot to hear the poem about cities (there was video).
Mozart’s compositions, movements and performance certainly lived up to the hype.
It was good to see slam poetry percolating on the Near Westside.
Pearl St.
Social Media Breakfast Syracuse #10 Panel: Kimberley McCoy, Rachel Boucher, Matthew De Bellas and Sarah Massett (with moderator Patrick Finlon, left).
This kind of collaboration is encouraging.
We finally got to attend a Social Media Breakfast here in town. The group had its latest meeting at Syracuse Stage on Thursday, and the focus was how arts organizations engage online. Participants included representatives from The Red House, The Everson Museum, CNY Arts and Art Rage.
The discussion ranged from generating unique content and boosting awareness to using “gamification” (rewards) and data collection methods to gain new followers/supporters.
What was most impressive is that you didn’t have to be a savvy social media manager or represent an art venue to pick up pearls of wisdom from this conversation. Quick, power-packed, yet very filling, it was like breakfast for your head.
Salt City Art Mart coming to 499 Warren Street
We saw these promo pieces downtown last week and found out the Salt Market (Syracuse) will be setting up shop at 499 Warren Street on Saturday, October 19.
Sidewalk Art, Near Westside
Xenia Belcher, Jesse Dowdell with Carrie Mae Weems at the Everson Museum about 10 years ago.
A few days ago it was announced that bi-urban (Syracuse and Brooklyn) photographer/artist/filmmaker/legend Carrie Mae Weems was a recipient of the 2013 MacArthur Fellowship. Her work will also be on display for the 40th anniversary of Light Work Gallery in Syracuse. The Light Work reception is later today.
Kamiiron Pritchard, artist (Spark Art Space)
One of the cool things about the CRAVE Festival was getting to meet the artists working in and around our city.
Ron Warford, artist (open-air gallery Armory Square)
Zombie: Up close and personal
Here’s part of the CRAVE Festival’s “Thriller” Flash Mob, which commenced a little after 4 pm today at the City Hall Commons Atrium.
Zombie: Working Day & Night
Family Portrait
Crave Press Pool
Connective Corridor Director Linda Dickerson Hartsock (left) with a member of her staff
Action: “Thriller” Flash Mob