Thursday, February 24, 2011

What Happens When The Lights Go Out at PLAY DEAD?



I had to take advantage of 20at20 week, in which participating Off-Broadway shows were only $20! Not your typical play but Robbins, the guide for the evening, draws you into a dark, haunted experience of surprises, screaming, and laughter. Through storytelling and stage illusions, you test your nerves and face your fears of the returning dead.

Source: http://www.playdeadnyc.com/

The Art of the Steal



A well-executed documentary capturing the struggle for Dr. Albert C. Barnes' 25 BILLION DOLLAR collection of modern and post-impressionist art.

Next Stop: Barnes Foundation, PA!

OMGoodness, Usher!



Despite Usher's reputation as a womanizer, he is truly a talented, captivating performer! He definitely works his sex appeal via stripping down to his bare six-pack and thrusting, I mean dancing skills. As much as I cringed during these moments, I was amazed by his capability to draw so many women, of all ages, to scream, dance, and reminisce back to their 8th grade slow dance.

Highlights: remix of all his greatest hits, special guest: Justin Bieber and of course, the amazing choreography.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Rubin Museum of Art: Art of the Himalayas



Located on West 17th, between 6th and 7th avenue, the Rubin Museum exhibits the largest Western collection of Himalayan art. Absolutely beautiful and moving!

FYI, they also have great programs such as "K2 Fridays" where the cafe is transformed into a lounge from 6-10pm! Free admission as well!

Source: http://www.rmanyc.org

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Toshiko Nishikawa: Senbazuru @ The Vilcek Foundation



A trip to the Vilcek Foundation was initiated by my students, who first learned about the Toshiko Nishikawa's exhibition via facebook. I was ecstatic to learn about their desire to immerse themselves into the Japanese culture through their own means, particularly in the arts. The Vilcek Foundation was founded by two immigrant lovers, a biomedical scientist and art historian, who wanted to create opportunities for immigrants like themselves. The Foundation achieves its mission through hosting immigrant artists and performers at their gallery space in NYC, such as Toshiko Nishikawa.

Senbazuru, a interactive installation by Toshiko Nishikawa, offered viewers to see oneself in 1,000 different ways (senbazuru is Japanese for "1,000 origami cranes" and refers to a prayer for others' health and happiness). Each of the 1,000 orbs, which are also hand-painted by the artist, is connected to those around it, and by peering into the concave mirror contained within each orb, visitors not only see themselves, but become linked to those standing nearby. As a viewer, the idea of interconnectedness on a global level truly unveils as I see my students, who are from the South Bronx, place themselves in the perspective of those surrounding them, as well as the artist.

Source: http://www.vilcek.org/gallery/on-view-now/index.html