Buried in a Distant Age

Suspicious patch of dirt upon a green field
What buried mystery might some digging yield?

The music, art, and fashions of bygone days fascinate me, inspiring me to imagine how life might have been in the years, decades, and centuries before my birth. This antique allure also lies at the root of my love for history. So, it is with great enthusiasm that I seek out information on these times past, from the actions of the great leaders of the age to the quotidian lifestyles of the average person.

This process of learning is like solving a mystery, like digging up buried treasure. It brings me stories and images, which, in turn, drive me to continue to seek inspiration among the hidden cultural gems of the past. Yeah, love for knowledge is a thirst that can never be quenched, an itch that can never be scratched. Yet, it is rarely painful, always beckoning and inviting, leaving gifts of insight with each step taken.

Which leads me to today's topic, the birth date of Al Bowlly. By coincidence, I was asked today about the popular music of the 1930s and his songs came straight into my mind. Although relatively obscure now, as are most crooners of the "sweet" style, Bowlly was quite popular in his day. So iconic was his voice that his music is occasionally used to evoke a nostalgic sense of the era, such as in movies like The Shining.

Photograph from The Shining (Overlook Hotel, July 4th Ball, 1921)
On view as part of LACMA's Stanley Kubrick exhibition

Well, let's dig through the years and excavate some fine music from the obscurity of days gone by. It's not forgotten now.

I'm Still Here

Stop sign with pink and white balloons

Alright, it's been a while since my last post. Sorry. ;-)

I've been mighty busy, a bit fatigued, and writing a whole lot, just not here at Paideia. This has been the longest period of blog dormancy in well over a year. Honestly, I apologize. Hopefully, I can get back on track here and lay out some awesome posts for you all.

Certainly, we'll be putting up quick hit "Image of the Day" posts. At least that will keep things moving here.

Thanks for sticking around.

It's Been a Long, Long Time

Image from the Corey Helford Gallery's exhibit of "Legend of the Pink Cherry" featuring works by Buff Monster, which runs until May 5

It's been nearly three months since last I wrote about the gallery scene over in Culver City. Why the long neglect? I just haven't been able to spend quality time checking out the shows, especially not to an extent that would enable me to coherently review them.

Well, I was passing near the art district, not intending to stop and see things, but a strong passion to visit the galleries overcame me, even if only for a brief glimpse. And so I did.

Ideally, I would write up a bunch of reviews detailing why I appreciate each exhibit, providing context and commentary, linking to a vid to showcase the artist's body of work. Sadly, I was only able to get a few quick visits along Washington Boulevard sqeezed into my limited viewing time. But it was all good.

Detail of (A) Murder of Crows 8 by Stephanie Inagaki, part of Skotia Gallery's group show "Veneris XII" which runs until May 5

I figured that, while I may not have either the time or ability to write up proper reviews, at least I can share some photos with you. ;-)

A gallery view of Shay Bredimus' "Kotomi" at Koplin Del Rio, exhibiting until May 12.

Awesome work!