…and it’s hundreds and hundreds of pounds!

Starting October 17^th, the Glenbow Museum will be a temporary home to Ron Mueck’s “a girl”. It's a uniquely powerful sculpture; though enormous, it’s eerily lifelike. Words don’t do justice to this remarkable piece, so be sure to check out the links that follow, for photographs. I happen to have seen some “behind the scenes” pictures of this piece and others arriving at the Glenbow, and the work that was required to transport them safely. Now I’m even more eager to behold them!

But there’s so much more than this big baby! Here are some “crib” notes for you, about what’s coming up at the Glenbow on October 17th:

• Two artists, Ron Mueck and Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas, have exhibitions that will be opening.
• Artist-in-residence, Kris Demeanor, will play a new song, inspired by Mueck’s “a girl”.
• Artist-in-residence Sandi Somers will speak about the work she’ll be debuting.
• There will be a launch of a one-minute film competition, whose winner will have his or her film shown at the Plaza Theatre.

If you haven’t been to the Glenbow Museum lately, you’ve got plenty of reasons to get reacquainted. For more information, please see the following links:

Glenbow Museum current exhibitions

One minute video challenge

Sandi Somers

Kris Demeanor

Note: the actual title of this book is Ignore Everybody and 39 Other Keys to Success, but the blogging software that I'm using limits the length of my titles. We library types like to be precise!

While I think that the glowing and gushing praise adorning the cover of this neat little book is a touch too complimentary, I did enjoy reading it. It certainly wasn’t a dense or challenging read, but why should a book on creativity be dense and challenging? In this case, the medium suits the message.

Essentially, Ignore Everybody is a series of common-sense maxims for those who hear a stifled little voice inside themselves, yearning to burst out and be expressive. However, even though the advice itself is simple and sensible, there is humor, candor and even a bit of dirty language throughout. One reviewer noted that the book will “change your life”, although this reviewer certainly wouldn’t go that far. Really, there’s nothing terribly radical in these keys to success. However, if you have a creative impulse but need some motivation to get started on a project, this may be just the book for you.

However, do be sure to check it out if you have an interest in either cartooning or blogging!

If women ruled the world, what would the world look like? Just think about it.

I envision a world wherein free childcare is provided by governments, there are fewer or no violent crimes, and women’s ways of knowing are celebrated as valid, useful, and sacred.

What do you imagine?

If you’re feeling inspired, or searching for some inspiration, visit the Art Gallery of Calgary for an exhibit called If Women Ruled the World, featuring works by renowned feminist artist, Judy Chicago.

If you aren’t yet familiar with Chicago’s works, browse our catalogue for “Judy Chicago”, and you’ll find all sorts of titles about Chicago’s decades-spanning work. She’s considered the Mother of Feminist Art, and her “Dinner Party” is, in large part, the reason why. Why not learn more about it?

If you’re interested in women, feminism, gender, contemporary art, or textiles, don’t miss this exhibit! It’s your opportunity to see the work of a living feminist legend, right here in Calgary!

If Women Ruled the World opens September 25th. For more information:

Art Gallery of Calgary

Judy Chicago

These days, I’m seeing colour in new ways. I see the coolness of a deep red and the yellowish tinge in a bright green. I practice painting my own colour wheels, in hopes that I’ll soon be able to replicate with ease the shades that I see in the natural world. I’ve been inspired by my latest painting course!

I have taken several paingint courses at studios throughout the city, but, if you can’t attend classes (or, even if you can), make a trip to the library for some inspiration!

The Calgary Public Library has all kinds of resources to inspire you:

• Art books – we’ve got everything from ancient Egyptian to the modern masters!
• Special collections – these oversized books are as amazing and inspirational as they are rare!
• Painting Classes – check out our program guide for information about our free classes!
• E-library – access biographical information and critical essays, online!

If you need inspiration for your latest project, don't dilly "Dali" (I know, I know...). Stop by your local library today!