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Artspiration

Unique, not Special

For a really long time, I thought being different was a negative thing. But as I grew older, I started to realize we were all born to stand out; nobody is born to blend in.
~ Halima Aden

I recently listened to an interview where the guest empathized that he was unique, but not special. There is only one of him, period, ever. But he’s just another guy, a human doing his best to live life in such a way that positively impacts others. I find it interesting to think about things that all/most/many of us do, that we feel completely alone in. A recent conversation about parenting illustrates this well. Humans throughout history have been rearing children – and we continue to do so in the current day, even though the accessories we have access to may look different. Every child, every parent, is unique in and of themselves, but there are also commonalities that (generally) are true across the spectrum. 

  • This week’s artist is – Jean Jullien – whose Filili Viridi project caught my attention. While in college working on an art degree I took an Installation class. I loved the idea but didn’t fully understand – that in-depth knowledge came through more exposure and experience – visiting Meow Wolf and seeing projects like Jean’s. Be sure to check out his website and instagram for even more!

  • Tonight is a completely free “Passeggiata” in the North Main district from 5-8pm. Think of this as your regular nightly walk but with cool things around every corner to happen upon: four bands, two circuses, art vendors, alley murals, and more! One suggestion is to start at 81301 Coffee and work your way around Union Social House, then down to Homeslice North.
  • There are some great-sounding classes coming up at the Durango Arts Center in July: Plein Air Painting, Taking Better Pictures With Your Phone, and Jewelry Bead Embroidery. You can sign up for them all here.
  • If you weren’t paying attention, June’s nearly gone! (How did that happen so fast?!) That means Independence Day is this weekend. There are a lot of events taking place. Check them out here.
  • Here are 6 composition techniques (they work in all types of art, not just painting).
  • This is one artist’s oil-painting design process.
  • A common question we receive when looking at paints is “Why is it called Hookers Green”? Here’s the answer.
  • Looking for a challenge? Paint Outdoor Dining. Deadline is sunset on July 31.
  • Since I live in Bayfield, I get to wait for the sheep being herded twice a year. Here’s an aerial timelapse view of sheep being herded over 7 months.
  • Saturday from 4-7 there will be live music at Fox Fire Farms. Pack your own picnic meal – purchase wine at the winery.
  • Saturday from 8-12 at Buckley Park the Movie in the Park Series will be playing The Sandlot. Popcorn and beverages will be available for purchase – but feel free to bring your own meal and snacks. Movie begins 15 minutes after sunset with seating beginning at 7:45.
  • There is also a lot of live music scattered around town. See who’s playing where here.
  • Chuck Close‘s 81st birthday will be Monday. Frida Kahlo‘s 114th would have been Tuesday.
  • Use this map to place a drop of water and trace its journey to the sea. (I only tried this on my computer – don’t know how it will look on a phone).
  • We’ve started carrying this line of Canson Mi-Tientes Pastel Papers. We try to regularly keep a variety of sizes and colors on hand.