Welcome! I started this project with an idea that has changed some in the last few months. The events of late required me to step back, read, and talk to some wonderful people, many I plan to introduce to you along the way. We are dealing with issues of enormous weight and consequence, but I hope to bring enough lightness of touch to jump into the muddle. The group events I planned will remain on hold for now. So, I will be sending a collection of thoughts, media, interviews with others and more once a week in the newsletter. The blog will develop into somewhat longer connected pieces that will live on the site.

I want to say something about this photograph by Rinzi Ruiz. First, Rinzi could take a photograph of my shoes and it would be great. (Actually, he did take one of my shoes, and it’s a favorite!). This one was taken in the Garment District of LA, which now has been “rebranded” as the Fashion District. A computer search will first send you to to Fashion but History you have to dig for, (pun intended).

More than 4,300 businesses operate in the district, most of which are independently or family-owned, with less than five employees. Some buildings provide free space for artists in the top floor of their buildings.  The district was first started in the 1920’s with diverse groups of immigrants opening shops that initially operated from the back doors of wholesale businesses. Retailers would open outlets for one or two days a week until they grew into full-time business. It is not in any way a planned neighborhood, but a spider web of alleys that grew over the years. I come from a history of makers: farmers, bee keepers, blacksmiths, and am a first generation American.

I am not suggesting this photograph, as any work of art is only about one thing. Rather much is left to the imagination. I am drawn to the vibrant red of the curtain with those gorgeous marks. They show the history of the makers hands behind the curtain, all happening within a district of spider webs. I am interested in the infinite web of connections, simple and complicated, hidden or direct, strong or fragile that we share with other beings and things. So many of the posts from art and craft, biology, anthropology, psychology, fiction and more will be that jumping off place.

So here is a smattering of what is soon ahead:

I have an interview with Detroit artist, Matt Lambert, on the way to working on a Ph.D in Sweden. They have so much to say about their art and most recent publication, I might have caught every third idea, but that was quite an abundance. I will also be talking to Jenn Pilotti about her recent book about the edges of movement science and play. Then, what salmon farming in Norway has to say about our ideas of individualism and more.

Finally, Elizabeth Sutherland has been my spirit guide in love, laughter and design. Rinzi Ruiz, graciously allowed use of this photograph. And without Mike MacDonald to work his technical magic I would still be sitting with my Olivetti in a pile of papers. Hanging out with them always brings beauty, hope and laughter to anything and I have been indeed fortunate.

Thanks for going on this ride with me!

Be well,

Marlene

@rinzizen, @rinziruizphotography