Artist Kiki Smith

No surprise that Kiki Smith grew up in a very artistic family--her father, the acclaimed sculptor Tony Smith and her mother, singer Jane Lawrence, seemed to give her a head start on greatness. This is an artist that does it all in so many different mediums and she might just be the contemporary artist I treasure the most. Smith makes wonderful mixed media prints, incredible monumental sculptures, and large-scale installations, many related to her interest in the human body and the human condition. Her subject matter is gutsy, visceral, and honest.

Smith is an artist's artist. I wouldn't be surprised if many of you haven't heard of her. Here is an interesting interview she gave about her life. She is definitely worth a look and a listen...
I don't usually like reviews but this one is particularly astute, no surprise written in 2015 by a non-professional critic--a student, writing in the the Cornell University newspaper.

How to Make a Paper Airplane

I guess I am just a kid at heart. Spent the last hour making some of these paper airplanes and flying them in my hallway, They do fly! I've had this idea of making kites for years--one of these things I just never seem to get to--but maybe this is the next best thing for now...

Poem by Rumi

The Guest House
by Rumi

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

Painting of the Week

Doctor’s Office, West 51st Street, New York, NY

Charity of the Week:

Save The Children

About The Author

New York City based contemporary artist, Pam Smilow, began writing the creative lifestyle blog “things we love” in an effort to foster a sense of community during times of isolation and reflection. To read more about her and her art, visit her website and check out the essay written by the Hammond Museum's Frank Matheis entitled The Sophisticated Innocence of Pam Smilow.