Martin Luther King Day...gratitude for a man who made a change for a better world...

"The ultimate measure of a person is not where one stands in moments of comfort or convenience, but where one stands at times of challenge and controversy." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
I sometimes worry the young students will not really know about the powerful life this human being lived and died for to create an environment for equality for all. The children know they have a long weekend but do they realize why we honor this martyr and hero for America. I am hoping ...if it is even for a short moment ...the world will remember how the world was changed by the power of one individual.

I spent the afternoon relishing my latest book acquisition... Peter Beard's two volumes of hos photo documentation of his travels, clients and deep love for Africa. His images are powerful and can be visceral at first examination. After a closer look I was mesmerized by this man's sacred marks. Peter was born on January 22, 1938 in New York. He came from a wealthy privileged family and also was well known in the supermodel fashion era. Beard is not only known for his dedication to Africa's natural beauty but also photographed Andy Warhol, Truman Capote, Mick Jagger, David Bowie just to name a few recognizable names. He developed a close relationship with Jackie Onassis,Lee Radziwill, Bianca Jagger while he rented homes in Montauk and Manhattan,New York. He became a model for the painter Francis Bacon and is featured in several of his sketches and paintings. I was totally blown away with his collages and diaries he kept while in Africa ...his drawings, papers and tickets combined with his professional photographs. His documentation of the poaching happening in Africa and the Black market are unforgettable. He includes personal letters from Karen Blixen .... she wrote "Out of Africa" (her name flees from me now). I think artists will be drawn to Peter Beard's style and authenticity in his vision.

I am making a cupcake dress for Morgan's first birthday. We have a quite a crowd coming to celebrate her number one! We will be going to a place called Bounce and for an hour and a half of running and jumping with all the kids...27 children at last count. Whew I am hoping I can keep up and join right in on the festivities and still be awake and up vertical for the cake and ice cream!!!

I made a big pot of chicken vegetable soup spiced with hot chili tomatoes...just enough spice to warm you down to your toes! I do hope you have all checked out hht://tristanrobin.blogspot.com to celebrate his 300th followers and 200th post. He is celebrating all over the world by way of the internet and has a very generous giveaway for some lucky artist. I am back to work for now but I do hope you are all well and safe in your artists studios creating your sacred marks! Imagine and Live in Peace, Mary Helen Fernandez Stewart