Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Local Natives - World News






I <3 this song

To visit or not to visit....

I feel like crap today...emotionally.

I am so just blah, and put off by a certain irish fellow right now. I don't like to deal with someone who is so hot and cold, and inconsistent with me. I don't like being told I'm dramatic when I try to express my concerns. And to be honest, the idea of spending a week with him in Ireland does not sound appealing. I kind of just want to meet up with mandi & steven and travel around, and not even see Ciaran or have to spend time in the shittiest town in the world, Boyle. Ciaran feels I owe him a visit, but why should I try to please someone who has made me feel the shittiest I've ever felt about myself physically, and who generally was a prick to me.

Some advice I'd give to other people is learn from the past, but that is one area I epically fail at.

Also, if I am going to a country full of irish boys, why would I want to go back to Ciaran??????

Friday Don't Need It

Things I Like...

-When a semi-famous indie pop band of cute british boys posts semi-regularly (3 times is semi-regularly!) on my myspace (I'm pretty sure I have the distinction of being their singular American fan, and I'll take it!!!)

-Seeing a commercial produced by my Dad airing during late night TV on E!

Things I'm Not Sure How I Feel About......

-My advisor/head of the art history dept. inviting me to a cocktail party for all the majors at his house

-Being told by a couple from Vienna who came into work tonight to "NOT GO ALONE" to their city of origin... though they hadn't been back in 50 years... so what do they know....

Tomorrow:
-Meeting with Prof. Gregg to grovel for missing more than few classes and figure out what to do about this damn research paper.
-Hanging out with Marisa in the Dada Lab to get some schooling in Photoshop so I can finish my photo project (Hot Iranian is coming to help me too!!!!!)

Monday, March 30, 2009

Maybe One Day I'll go to All My Classes

I missed a class today that I CANNOT miss. So I'm trying to take care of it, but I'm getting very stressed about it. I can't ever just have a good week, can I?

In other news, a certain attractive Iranian (not one of the creepy middle eastern dudes I sometimes speak of, but the dark and brooding fellow from this post) saw that I was fumbling around in Photoshop since I am clueless in how to use it, and offered to meet with me tomorrow to help and also added me on facebook today! Although, I am pretty sure he has a girlfriend.

Also, Carol, who called me out on not coming to class via facebook, welcomed me back to class with a hug today. So as of now, I'd probably say she is my favorite teacher. A little nuts, but my favorite.

Now i have to get ready to go to work! :/

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Best Summer Ever!!

There's nothing in life that makes me happier than traveling, and there's no continent I love more than the European one! And thats exactly what I'll be doing all summer!!!!!!

I'll be in what is arguably the art history paradise of Europe for 8 weeks--Vienna, Austria, and then spending 10 days in a place that I've dreamed about going back to for two years -- Ireland!

I am very excited, but more feeling nervous right now because there is so much preparation to do in a very short time before I leave, which is May 11!!!!
I'm also still nervous about the fact that I am going without knowing anyone, really. But I'm trying to get over that, because its getting in the way of looking forward to being in Europe!!
I'm just trying to tell myself that it's an adventure, I'll learn a ton in the classes I'll be taking, I'll hang out with the locals or foreign students if I hate the Americans, and if nothing else, I'll just go spend all my time wandering art museums!
And knowing that I for sure will be back in Ireland is also an amazing feeling. It's surreal. I've literally dreamed about and yearned to go back to that place ever since the day I left it the first time. I could probably relate any topic or conversation back to Ireland (and I do all the time, which I'm sure annoys the hell out of people! ha, but I don't care!).

Mandi and Steven are also coming to visit me in Ireland at the end of my trip which will be fantastic. Ciaran is being a little bit weird about them coming, but I know it will be great.
Claire and possibly Jaime are thinking about visiting as well. As are my parents, and possibly my Aunt Kelley and Uncle Ken. It's awesome to know I'll have so many visitors!!!

EEEEEEEEEEE all this wonderfulness just makes me giddy!!!!!!

Saturday, March 28, 2009

If you're on it, I judge you

Twitter = TWATter

Coincidence??? I think Not!

"Erin is taken from the Gaelic Eirinn, meaning "of Eire" - Eire being the Irish name for Ireland. Erin was used as a poetic name for Ireland for several centuries but it is not normally bestowed as a given name in that country."

from babynamesworld.com

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

UNITED AIRLINES / LUFTHANSA AIRLINES

St.Louis to Vienna connects at Chicago O'Hare and Frankfurt:

*UA8048W 11MAY MO STL to ORD 1146A 101P

LH 431W 11MAY MO ORD to FRA 345P 655A#1 (arrives May 12)

LH3530W 12MAY TU FRA to VIE 850A 1010A



I'll be on those flights and I'M SO FUCKING GIDDY WITH EXCITEMENT!!!!!!!!!!!

"Are you from Turkey??"

Middle Eastern men effing love me!
It's strange, but I'll take the ego boost, I suppose.

The one tonight was actually cute, and not creepy... hmmm.

Friday, March 27, 2009

If you think your day was bad....

I just discovered FMyLIfe.com and it is fucking hilarious!

A few gems:
Today, we got our yearbooks for school. I opened to my profile to see that they misspelled my first name which is James. They wrote Lames. FML

Today, I was on a blind date with a girl my friend set me up with. We went to a fancy restaurant and she ordered the shrimp. I told her, "I'm allergic to shrimp, so you shouldn't order it in case I want to kiss you later." She looked at the waiter and said, "I'll have the shrimp." FML

Today, I was arrested because my 6 year old son called the police saying that I was hitting my wife and that she was crying. My wife and I were having sex. FML

Today, my wife went to the hospital because she had been gaining weight recently and had missed her period the last three months. We thought it was menopause. Turns out she's pregnant. I've been sterile since the day I was born. FML

Today, I was sitting at home when I remembered that I desperately needed gas for my car. On my way there, I prayed that my car would make it the whole way, and was thankful when I pulled up to the pump, because I knew my car wouldn't go any further. Then I realized I left my wallet at my house. FML

Today, a co-worker and I walked out of our office at the same time. He got in his car, which was parked right out front. I asked him what I had to do to get a sweet parking spot like that. He proceeded to roll up his pant leg and show me his prosthesis. He was in the handicapped spot. FML

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Meet My Son, Galahad

Ok, so I'm going to stop being a drama queen like I was being about two posts ago, and some before that, as well. The cause of unhappy feelings has been cut out of my life, and I'm glad I did it. I hate wasting time lamenting over the past or being just plain unhappy. Life's too short as they say.
I met with Emily finally today and I'm glad I did. She always puts things in perspective for me. She told me she is graduating this semester, so I'm kind of sad. But who knows, maybe I won't need counseling in 6 weeks. Or maybe I'll see her at wherever she'll be working? We'll see a lot can happen in that amount of time.

I just read an article about someone with the name Galahad. That is a pretty sweet name. I think I'll name my firstborn child that. I'm serious.

I did some impulsive shopping today. I went to River City Natural Foods Market - my favorite organic store, and got a bunch of organic bath and body products. I also just purchased a bunch from the Garnier Nutritioniste line at Walgreens --the anti sun damage day cream, the night cream, and the anti-puff eye roller. We'll see... I already knew I liked the regular day lotion. It all smells really nice, too.

Crayon Art





I am utterly amazed at Christian Faur's crayon series.

Fool Me Twice, Shame on Me

Someone who lets me walk out of their life that easily has no place in mine.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

People Don't Change

I can't let myself get caught up in this stuff with anybody,

I need to take a lesson in learning from the past.

I've passed up two perfectly decent guys to be tangled up with ex-es, and i have to remember there's a reason why those relationships ended in the first place. Thank goodness for blunt friends with good memories.

SHIT

What is the world coming to when your professor finds you on facebook and sends you a message that says "Now that I know where to find you, get to class!"

EEK.

Gotta get it together

(When I post continuously like it's nobody's business it probably means I'm avoiding lots of other things I need to be accomplishing.)

(And I'm shamelessly internet-addicted, as previously mentioned.)

Obsessed with Obsessions


Marina & The Diamonds, "Obsessions" from Neon Gold Records on Vimeo.

Life without shisha sure does go fruitless

Riyad, the owner of my favorite hookah bar, somehow located me on facebook a couple months ago.
Today two random middle eastern men requested to be my facebook friend. One, known as Fayiz from Jordan, added me. It said we had one mutual friend, which was Riyad. Then Fayiz's friend Mohammed from Bahrain added me. And now, as I type this "Mohammed" is writing on my wall and messaging me. And fb chatted me saying: "I am Mohamed from the Kingdom of Bahrain, please, tell me abour urself?"
His profile says under political views: Arab Socialist Baath Party.

This amuses me for now, but I sense I should delete one or both soon.

Middle Eastern men love me. I have an Egyptian admirer at the hookah bar, as well.

Oh man this conversation is entertaining...

3:50pm Mohammad: hi

3:50pmErin
hi, how did you find my profile

3:51pmMohammad
by chance

3:51pmErin
i see
have you been to the states before?

3:51pmMohammad
no

3:51pmErin
i've never been to jordan either

3:51pmMohammad
It is one of my dream
U R Welcome

3:52pmMohammad
Im Jordanian but Im working as a lecturer in Bahrain

3:54pmMohammad
ok
Tell me about yourself . please??/

3:54pmErin
i study art history

3:55pmMohammad
at the uni??

3:56pmErin
yes, at the uni

3:56pmMohammad
good
How old r u ?or it is a secret ??

3:57pmErin
no secret, 22
and you

3:58pmMohammad
I dont belive this
I think u r 15 or less

3:58pmErin
well why would you message a 15 year old girl?

3:58pmMohammad
you have a baby face
No problem
Im 26

3:59pmErin
i dont think it is normal for a 26 year old to chat up a 15 year old

4:00pmMohammad
what does u mean ???

4:00pmErin
Nevermind

4:00pmMohammad
ok darling
what a bout your family ????

4:01pmErin
My mother is a CEO of a major corporation and my father stays at home to cook and clean

4:01pmMohammad
ok
my father is a retired teacher
I have 4 sis and 3 broth
My father have a store in St .Marteen Island
It is near USA

4:04pmErin
whereabouts?
we are a small country so i probably am near to it

4:04pmMohammad
WHAT ????
what about your state ???

4:05pmErin
where is st. marteen

4:05pmMohammad
it is an island in the karabi Sea

4:06pmErin
where is the karabi sea?

4:06pmMohammad
sorry but im not good at geography
Im rinking Pepsi
Do u want to share me ???

4:07pmErin
share you?

4:08pmMohammad
drinking Pepsi ??

4:08pmErin
i prefer Coke

4:08pmMohammad
what coke ???

4:09pmErin
coca cola

4:09pmMohammad
OK

4:09pmErin
you have heard of it?

4:09pmMohammad
ya
I know coca
Now im taking Shisha

4:10pmErin
ah, we call it hookah here
one of my favorite activities

4:10pmMohammad
righ
ys
It is my prefarable event every day

4:11pmErin
i would agree, it is my preferable event also

4:11pmMohammad
Sharing me ????

4:11pmErin
uh, no smoking hookah

4:11pmMohammad
so nice
Life without shisha goes fruitless

4:12pmErin
This is true.

4:12pmMohammad
Your birthday is after 1 month nearly ???

4:13pmErin
yes, it is

4:13pmMohammad
Happy Bithday from now to 24-5

4:13pmErin
thank you

4:14pm Mohammad
ok
what about time now ???

4:14pmErin
??

4:15pmMohammad
the oclock ???

4:15pmErin
ah yes, the o'clock
it is 4:15 pm
and the time in Bahrain?

4:15pmMohammad
it is 1.15 After mid

4:15pmErin
i see, you are up late

4:15pmMohammad
no
Because I have only 2 lessons only

4:16pmErin
i see
well i should go now
enjoy your shisha

4:17pmMohammad
and it is unbelivable chance t talk with you
ok
have a nice time

4:18pmMohammad
can I chat u tomorrow ???

4:18pmErin
perhaps, we'll see

4:18pmMohammad
thanks , c u
4:18pmMohammad
salam

Among many other reasons why this is humorous, I think it's funny that he teaches English!

Renaissance Shmenaissance

I'm really intrigued by Harlem Renaissance art. (Read about in Bob's artblog). I intend to read up on it more when I can. Aaron Douglas, Drama, 1930

James Van der Zee, Dancing Girls, 1928


Archibald Motley, Jr., Saturday Night, 1935






BUT have to research this painting right now... from the first-time-around Renaissance. (Which isn't always my cup of tea...)


Titian, Diana and Actaeon, 1556

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

I am Not a Robot

Wow, sometimes you think you know someone so well, but there are some things you never realize. Claire just got really pissed at me about something, but it was based on something she was insecure about, of which I had no idea.
Anyway, its worked out now. And I guess its good that it led to us having a pretty good talk. Had one last night, too.


Lately I feel very secure and happy in my social/personal life. Even in my job (which i thought i was close to losing, more on that later), but suddenly things are not so great with school again. why do i always let this happen??? I've been avoiding Emily b/c I don't want to talk about it and admit things... but I need to see her on Thursday. I always tell myself to just let school be my priority, to just focus on that, but it seems the thing that always gets put to the backburner so easily. So I'm kind of mad at myself.
As a result, I have some catching up to do in two of my classes and its stressing me out, and the more stressed I am the more I just want to avoid everything. It's a nasty cycle. But I've been doing so well this semester, and I don't want to ruin it now, at the end. If I can just get through I have Vienna and then my final year to look forward to!

Anyway, with work. I wrote a pretty blunt honest email to my boss last night, about some "indiscretions" on my part that I knew she was avoiding bringing up with me. And I wasn't sure how she'd react. But she wrote back a really nice email that made me feel a lot better and secure in my job. I think she is such a passive, non-confrontational person that she was just so relieved that I was the one to bring things up, and she didn't have to address me herself. But atleast maybe now she knows I dont jump to the defensive when confronted, I handle things calmly.
And I'm proud of myself for being so straightforward, honest, and open to discuss things - I've been that way a lot lately, with basically everyone I'm close to. And it is definitely something I pride myself on.

Another deep thought I've been having tonight is how much I'd like to eat some meat... maybe some beef brisket, or some barbequed chicken, or a juicy hamburger... I must have a protein or iron deficiency or something... b/c I NEVER crave meat... this all started on St. Patrick's Day because of a certain person feeding me pork which i never eat! hmmm.

Also, I really like the new colors I have chosen for my layout here. Sehr schön.

Is there a 12 Step Plan for this?

I think I have an internet addiction.

No jokes.

Hot Negative


(from facehunter)

Metropolis

Monday, March 23, 2009

I guess I do Regret....

I'm a little sad.
I liked being friends, but I guess it's ruined.
What can you do I guess.....

I crack myself up

Dad: Look what one of our vendors from work sent me for St. Patrick's Day!
*Hands me silver coin with with clover on it*
Me: What is it?
Dad: I guess it's like a lucky charm type thing.
Me: *sigh* You're always after those.

If I See a Man Waving

I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy hearing "you're cute as a button, ya are" from an Irishman with a charming accent. hmmmmm.

Today I realized the bailouts have benefited me directly. So enough of all this whining about how bad it is....because I'm Main Street, bitches.
CitiGroup was bailed out...and thus required to help its customers, so they cut me an amazing deal with my account. They took off all interest and fees, and I only have to pay $53 a month! And from what I've heard none of the other companies are really doing this...people have said I'm lucky to get such a deal. So, I thank Mr. Obama. I'm not a hater. I'm ok with economic stimulus plans.

Also took a mental health day today....
Both my parents had the day off as well. My grandma and grandpa stopped over here since my Dad was taking them to my grandma's appt. with the heart surgeon. And I seriously have the cutest, funniest grandma ever. You'd think she was going to the county fair and not a doctor's appt. b/c she was just happy as a clam! Laughing, and giving Bonnie treats. Showing us her leg bends she does for physical therapy. Asking what we think of her new haircut! She is the bubbliest most talkative 83 year old i know! So funny!

Anywho, I need to think of something productive to do before work this evening.... start research for Ren. paper? Paint nails? Do Laundry?

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Sunday Night

My date for last night had to cancel, but that is quite alright because what I did end up doing was much more entertaining, I'm sure.

So, TWO dates this week! One is the one from Sat. and the other is even cuter, I think. Both tall. One is more attractive, but one seems to have a more interesting personality. So we'll see.

In other news - I'm anti-twitter.

I watched The Strangers tonight and had to cover my eyes. Creeeeepyyyy.
I just can't handle horror films apparently.

I just saw a commercial for Twilight being out on DVD at Target -- do they really need to advertise???

Anywho, I hate that it's almost Monday already. Better go do some productive shite before I go to bed.

The Lanky Bastard in Fly Eye Specs

Calvin Harris is so hot that he deserves not one, but TWO blog posts.

Yes, I'm obsessed. And I don't usually get fan-ish about anyone. But this dude is great, and sexier than Rob Pattinson.

Seriously though - his new song is fucking amazing. I predict it'll be big. (TWSS).





Let's just enjoy some more photos of him....












Insert Katy Perry Song Title Here

Oh man. what a night.

-Girls.
-Red wine.
-Making out.
-"crunk"-enness.
-Boobs.
-Random 40 year old's birthday party.

God.

Quote of the night: "GEORGE CLOONEY - GET YOUR BINOCULARS OUT, LOOK AT ME, I DON'T HAVE A SHIRT ON!!!!"

Fun times though.
I couldn't find my car for like 20 minutes after I left Claire's apartment because I'd forgotten that I let Christina drive it and had no clue where she parked it.

Now I think it's time for a nap.

Friday, March 20, 2009

I'm glad I was born in the 80s

I have a little bit of a crush on Calvin Harris.

He spins excellently, is 6'5" (!!), has a hot deep voice, funky style, and is, most importantly, SCOTTISH.

And just look at him.

Fucking hot.

His videos are pretty sweet, too:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh2oseTibx4&feature=PlayList&p=BABD92EA04681063&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhUcSbbURyc&feature=related

I'm more than a little obsessed with his new single, "I'm Not Alone." also.
(the only one i could embed!)

AND listen to his sexy accent here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvxL4Jcqoc0&feature=channel_page

Done Moved On

I ditched my optional noon lecture to join Claire for a delicious Mexican meal today. I had a crab meat quesadilla.

Now, i have to work in a bit. And again in the morning. BUT I might have a date tomorrow night, which is exciting! With a tall 26 year old who manages an opera! We'll see what happens.

Also had a nice time having coffee with Beth last night. Her dog is adorably precious, but is a little crazy and obnoxious. It literally chewed a corner off the wall in the span of an hour that I was at her house. Oh man.

A tune for your listening pleasure:

Schmoopy Woopy Loverboys

Sarah just called and left me a voicemail saying:

"So, just had to tell you that I saw your schmoopy woopy loverboy today and invited him to go to a gallery opening with Travis and I tomorrow night, so if you're free you should definitely come!"

F'ing Hell! I have to work tomorrow night... and will not get to hang out with a certain dark and brooding Iranian from our studio class. Although she didnt specify which "shmoopy whoopy loverboy" she was referring to, so she could also mean a certain blonde stoner-ish spacey dude, as well. Either way I'm bitter that I'll be answering the phones at Massage Envy instead.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Ex-boyfriends

Josh just called me for the first time in forever. Granted, it was because his girlfriend broke up with him, but I'm not complaining, because I genuinely did miss hearing from him. He sounded pretty bummed, but it was still good to catch up. And he did apologize for calling under those circumstances.

It's kinda crazy that suddenly in three days I am on great terms with all my ex-es. Ciaran also called me last night and gave a really genuine, kind apology for everything in the last few months. He really hit the nail on the head as to what he did to hurt me, and was really sorry for it. So I appreciated that.

Who knows what could happen, as it can be hard to stay friends with ex-es, but it has always been something that is important to me. It might seem strange, or unhealthy to some to keep around ex-boyfriends as friends. But I don't think I'm doing it for some weird psychological reason, I think I just care for all of them as people, enjoy their company, and conversation - and trust their advice. And I hope they all think the same of me.

Well It Takes a Strong Man Baby

Had a fabulous last few days:

-A much needed Monday night
-A happily drunken and random St. Pat's
-Skipping school Weds. to see Coraline

More thoughts - but they cannot all be written here! But basically - no regrets, I think the key to happiness is staying realistic (about myself and others). I used to be such an idealist, and that led to being disappointed very easily. I'm learning how to appreciate a whole person - good and bad (and this is not necessarily referring to one specific person). And how to embrace and deal with my own qualities... awkwardness, and always saying what I feel not excluded.
Also - my confidence has been mostly restored. (as opposed to how i was feeling here)

Anywho - Coraline was actually really good! Visually stimulating, creative, and a delightful story. I think my favorite character was the Russian circus dude - Mr. Bolanski? (Botonski?) ...can't recall his name.

Currently downloading some fantastic tracks:

Dananananakroyd – Black Wax (how can you NOT like a band who has that name??)
Franz Ferdinand – No You Girls
Hockey- Too Fake
The Boy Least Likely To - Faith
Calvin Harris – I’m Not Alone
Frankmusik – Better Off as Two
MSTRKRFT feat E4– Click Click
Bombay Bicycle Club – Always Like This
The Boy Least Likely To – Every Goliath Has Its David
Dutch Uncles-Steadycam

[Don't be jealous of my amazing taste]


I'd say this song will be on repeat for awhile (I have just fallen in love with it!):


(This youtube version is pretty shitty quality - but its the only one I could find)

Saturday, March 14, 2009

FAIL on getting out of it.

Third-wheelin' it tonight.

Blah

I feel absolutely awful. emotionally.

I'm trying to get out of going out again tonight since I'm broke and I don't feel like doing anything at all.

RIP Trova

Saw this article on NYTimes.com this morning:

Ernest Trova, ‘Falling Man’ Artist, Is Dead at 82


Ernest Trova, an artist whose signature creation, a gleaming humanoid known as “Falling Man,” appeared in a series of sculptures and paintings and became a symbol of an imperfect humanity hurtling into the future, died at home on Sunday in Richmond Heights, Mo., near St. Louis. He was 82.

The cause was congestive heart failure, said his son, Ernest Tino Trova.
Mr. Trova was largely known as a sculptor, but his “Falling Man,” a standard of Pop Art, began life as a painted figure, taking shape on his easel in the early 1960s. Faceless, armless, with a hint of a belly and, its name notwithstanding, of indeterminate sex, the figure struck a variety of poses, sometimes juxtaposed with other like figures, sometimes with mechanical appendages.
In October 1963 his one-man show, “Falling Man Paintings,” was the inaugural exhibition of the Pace Gallery on West 57th Street in Manhattan; it sold out, with the works purchased by the Museum of Modern Art, the
Whitney Museum, the architect Philip Johnson and others.
In three dimensions, the “Falling Man” figure was made from different materials over the years — nickel and chrome-plated bronze, enamel on aluminum, stainless steel — and often, like the Oscar statuette, was polished to an industrial sheen. It was clearly a space age creation, a forerunner of C3PO, the golden robot in “Star Wars.”

“He found the space age both inspiring and dehumanizing,” Arne Glimcher, who founded the Pace Gallery, now PaceWildenstein, said in an interview on Friday.

By the end of the 1960s, “Falling Man” had become Mr. Trova’s trademark, provoking Hilton Kramer, the art critic of The New York Times, to write that Mr. Trova had subjected his favorite figure “to almost as many variations as the Kama Sutra describes for the act of love.”
Ernest Tino Trova Jr. was born in St. Louis on Feb. 19, 1927. Shortly after his high school graduation his father, an industrial tool designer and inventor, died, and young Ernie, as he was known, went to work, most significantly as a window dresser for a department store. His early paintings were in the Abstract Expressionist mode, but his attentiveness to the mannequins had an influence on his art.

Through the 1970s and 1980s he continued with “Falling Man,” though he also became interested in formalized, almost mechanical-seeming landscapes, and the figures began to appear, reduced in size, within the context of abstractly rendered gardens.

A self-taught artist with an impish wit and an eccentric turn of mind, Mr. Trova craved the recognition that was available to artists only in New York City, but he never visited for more than a week at a time and made almost no friends among New York artists. He did befriend Ezra Pound. As a fevered fan of Julio Yglesias, he went to the singer’s concerts all over the United States.

“Ernie had a fabulous fantasy life,” Richard Solomon, the president of Pace Prints, the publishing arm of PaceWildenstein, said in an interview. “He had a persona he used to hide behind that he called ‘Junior Person.’ He was a wonderful man, but an oddball to beat the band.”
Mr. Trova left the Pace Gallery in the mid-1980s and signed with an inexperienced dealer in St. Louis. His profile went into decline, except in his hometown, where his donation of many of his works helped create the Laumeier Sculpture Park. He continued to work until shortly before his death. Most recently he was making collages using magazine photographs of meat.
“There’s a great one of a lamb chop sitting on a park bench,” said Matthew Strauss, a friend who runs White Flag Projects, a nonprofit gallery in St. Louis.

In addition to his son, known as Tino, who lives in St. Louis, he is survived by a daughter, Tristan Rand Rivas, of Minneapolis; a stepdaughter, Carla Hassel of Colorado Springs; and two grandchildren. His wife of 48 years, Carol Clingman Rand Trova, died last year.
Among Mr. Trova’s interests were toys — he amassed a huge and valuable collection — and Walt Disney characters, especially Mickey Mouse.

“ ‘Falling Man’ was to Ernie as Mickey was to Disney,” Mr. Strauss said, “a standard character he could amend for his own purposes, but that would still retain its essence.”

Funny thing, I've never even heard of Trova's Falling Man. I know and love him for all his work in Laumeier! When I worked at SLUMA, they had a few of his pieces (paintings) as well.

And I had no idea he had so much widespread fame, it's a shame it took his obituary for me to realize it.

Rest in Peace Ernest Trova.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Unhealed

I don't know what's harder... cutting you off or trying to be your friend.
Or which is healthier for me.

There's no point in expensive phone calls spent saying harsh things, taking digs at one another.

I found a letter buried under a bunch of crap on my desk while cleaning tonight. The words in it represent something (and someone) I wish was real, but isn't. I unfolded another paper underneath and a couple of photos fell out.

I hate that all these things can come at me, and remind me that the pain is still there. I don't even know that its you that I miss, but the possibility of an entire life and future that I could've had... that will never happen now.

Fuck, I never would've thought these things would be on my mind 7 months later.
But I've overheard my mom talking to my Uncle Mike a lot about grief counseling, and while this is obviously not nearly the same level of loss, I've learned you need to work through the emotions to move past them.

I'm like a woman from Brazil....

I have a delightful little secret that I get to share with someone on Monday....and I'm not going to be any less mysterious than that!

I am also the proud owner of a bottle of 2005 Chambourcin from Chaumette Winery in Ste. Genevieve, MO. Christina, Amanda, and I had a fun day hitting up the wineries there yesterday. I'd say my favorite was the Cave Winery... as it had a cave and I like caves. Chaumette had delicious wines, though.

Today I MIGHT actually get around to cleaning my room, and its literally been since Christmas that I've cleaned...its getting hard to move around in my room. Plus it always happens that there are cute clothes I forget that I own because they've been buried under piles for so long.

Ok, going to eat some lunch, workout, and then do that cleaning!

Monday, March 9, 2009

A Different Mondrian

ArtBlog by Bob's newest post made me wonder what else DID Mondrian do besides his geometric cubist pieces in black and white and primary colors? While I love Broadway Boogie-Woogie, and Composition with Red, Yellow, and Blue -- there has to be more to him than that, of course.

Check out some of his earlier and lesser known works:
Dune Landscape, 1910







Amaryllis, 1910





Self-Portrait, 1900




Composition No. 10 (Pier and Ocean), 1915








Tableau III, 1914





Gray Tree, 1911



Passionflower, 1908




Sunday, March 8, 2009

Save Up all Your USDs

I hate everything.

What a horrible day.

Wish someone would call me.

Troubles

I can't believe this still is going on.

"N. Ireland Police: Soldiers Murdered as they Lay on Ground"

Daylight Savings Time Kicked My Ass

I hate daylight savings time. Or maybe just my phone.
I stayed at Claire's last night, we went to bed early ,at midnight - and we double checked if it was "spring back" or "spring forward." (There was some confusion over this due to our mental state at the time). After realizing it was "spring forward" I set my cell phone clock back and set my alarm for 8:15 (had to be at work at 9:30). Well, all was fine and good,my alarm went off, I got ready, and I get out of the bathroom and my cell phone clock has suddenly jumped forward to 9:50. Which was actually the real time, meaning it had undone the change I had made last night somehow.
So I was almost an hour late to work, and I was the one opening the clinic. There was a therapist and client waiting outside for me... looking quite unhappy. The guy cancelled his appointment and the therapist was angry she lost that money for the day.
So I'm pretty sure I'm gonna get chewed out when I work again tomorrow. Ugh.

And there are tornado warnings out for today. The wind is blowing like crazy outside..and I've never seen clouds moving so fast. eek.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Happy Friday!

I'm craving starfruit. Which is the most delicious fruit in existence. The star of fruits you might say. (Yes, I'm in a silly cheesy pun mood.)

Also loving this bright sunny warm day! I'm going to take Bonnie on a nice long walk in a minute!

Working later, but I'll be working with Kristen - so I'm looking forward to it!

We Think You're a Joke. Shove Your Hope Where It Don't Shine

I love that Douglis, my architecture professor, brought us all some Schlafly beer on the last day of class!

Finally went and saw Claire after class to study some German - and I guess its all good from Tuesday when I ditched her (she was in a good mood and didn't mention it at all).

I met with Emily earlier. I always feel weird after our appointments - like guilty that I just talked about myself for an hour. But I guess that is the nature of her job. Are you supposed to get to know the counselor too?? Or are they just supposed to get to know you?

Well its 2am and I'm super awake since I just worked out at 1am... because I'm dedicated like that.... or atleast have been for the last week or so.

This is my favorite song from my current car CD and I have it in my head!

Thursday, March 5, 2009

"And instead of a mouth, it's got four arses!"


Ooohh also meant to post about the sheer brilliance that is Father Ted. I watched a bunch of episodes online last night, and was reminded how great it is.


Irish humour at its absolute best:


[Youtube wouldn't let me embed, but to all of my TWO readers - you must watch- its GOLD! Click the link!]



Reeling

Lalalalalalala-LOTS to do today, but I'm in a good mood!
Seeing Emily for the first time in a week and a half in about an hour!

Thinking about Vienna alot lately and I'm really really really excited! I sort of wish I had a travel buddy this time like I had Claire last time -- but its sort of good challenge for me to go on my own. (Not to say I don't have about a dozen people I vaguely know from Webster going too, one of which is actually a childhood friend who I haven't seen in about 10 years!).

Ahhh Adderall + Caffeine today means I'm a little bit wired!!!!! But I'm trying this 3-Day/Pre-Heart Surgery diet which requires 2 cups of black coffee daily!

I'm off to shower! Ciao!

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

I <3 Dawn


I adore Dawn Porter.

First saw on her TLC's couple episodes of Forbidden Love. She hosts this series which is about alternate types of relationships - she has one on polygamy and one on geishas. Those are the only two that aired on TLC in the US, but she had several more in the UK on BBC. And she has done several other documentaries as well - like one about Dirty Dancing, and one about images of women in the media.

She has such a cute little Brit accent and I love her funky retro style!

I've managed to find some of her stuff on youtube -- a documentary called Dawn Goes Lesbian which is interesting. and I just watched one called SuperSlim Me about her trying to reach a size zero in 8 weeks.

And, uh, just added her on myspace! ha... I'm so creepy.


Anywho...hope to be able to dig up more of her programs, and maybe they'll air more on TLC too!

Just as I suspected...

You're cute, but shallow, selfish, and really really needy.

It's funny- you get a certain impression of someone... you think, "I'll look past that- see who they really are." And two years later they are exactly what you thought they were. I'll trust myself and my instincts more often.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Happy Birthday Mom!

So I'm kind of ditching out on Claire...
we were supposed to hang out this evening, walk Clementine, get some dinner, and study.

But A) its Mom's birthday and dad is out of town- so she'd be home alone, B) I will probably end up eating junk and ice cream with claire and I've already eaten too many Samoas and Thin Mints today, and C) maybe I'm still sort of bitter that she ditched me for Anastasia last Tuesday.

And if I stay home I'll be able to hang out with Mom on her bday and get some things done!

To Do List for the Evening:

-Work out

-Clean my room!
+ Organize earrings
+rearrange closet

-Study for German Oral midterm

-Write check for Mom

-Paint nails & Toes (they are currently bright yellow -which got mixed reviews- and were gray before that... maybe spring green, or bright purple next??)

-Pluck eyebrows

-Finish Vienna paperwork - housing, health insurance, summer registration, etc.

-Work on Creative Strategies photo project (which is actually pretty cool - I haven't gotten to play with photo editing so much before)




I'm going to wineries with Christina on Saturday in St. Gen! Very exciting!
A little vino sounds delicious right now. mmmm.

Whoops.

So I just felt really impulsive after that last post and spent $80 on etsy.

oops.

I'm going to have several really cute things soon though!!

Ich Liebe Etsy!!!

I adore etsy.com.
Here are some things I'm thinking about buying...
















Sunday, March 1, 2009

ART = LOVE

I love art more than I could ever put into words. Sometimes when I'm in an art history class in an interesting lecture, or reading an article about an upcoming exhibit, or looking at an art blog.... my heart just wells up with a burst of emotion because I love art so much. It sounds cheesy - but its that feeling that reassures me I'm doing the right thing. Being in school for 7 years to study undergrad art history, studying in Vienna when I have no money, and going into a field where I won't make much money....these things seem ok when I am doing what I absolutely, without a doubt... LOVE with my whole heart.

And I don't care how corny my follow-your-dreams shpeel just was...even writing about it makes me feel happy!