Crazy Heart

Why is it that the great creators among us are so frequently tortured? The film, Crazy Heart's, tag line even states, "the harder the life, the sweeter the song." Hard-drinking doesn't begin to describe the main character's disgusting self-destruction. His devotion to the devil drink couldn't make him less appealing...yet, a young worshipful journalist could not resist his immense talent. I won't spoil this film by telling you the ending, but I will say that I continued to muse, "how can this end"?

Jeff Bridges, who has won accolades from most award shows for this acting, wasn't going to make the film about a singer/songwriter until music was added. When a soul mate from previous jam sessions, T Bone Burnette, agreed to do the music, the actor became interested. I cannot miss the chance to acknowledge that the screenplay was written in less than 30 days by the producer/director, Scott Cooper, who had never directed even so much as a high school play. He is another artistic genius...hope he's not tortured.

Wild Swans

You will want to savor every single word of this beautifully written memoir of three generations of women in China. Through their stories you will learn and feel...and, you will be changed. Isn't that what art is about?

3 x 3

The L. A. Louver gallery in Venice (California, that is) always gives so much respect to each work of art. Dear friends and family were at the opening of this exquisitely installed group show.

American Idol Begins Again

When in San Francisco, seeing the Kahlo, Chihuly and Ming Dynasty exhibitions, the American Idol auditions were being held in the hotel where I was staying. You didn't think I was a judge?...or, a hopeful? The 2010 season beginning tonight, reminded me of that time.

Best Garage Art

Imagine my surprise when pulling into the parking facility under the Pasadena Art Museum! I started raving to my friend, "this is the best graffiti...who did this...isn't this fabulous...etc.," and, then, noticing the signature on the first wall...Scharf. Of course, only wonderful American artist who has elevated low art to high art, Kenny Scharf, did this. Since this museum specializes in California art is is so appropriate that this Hollywood-born artist created these murals... the best garage art, anywhere.

Dottie's Party

Those of you who visit this blog have met my dear cousin, Dottie, previously. Last night, she prepared this stunning table scape and a beautiful dinner party which arrived course after course. It was doubly appreciated by me and my cousin, Don, as we were being feted for our combined birthdays. Thank you Dottie!

Just Across the Mountain

Over the Santa Monica Mountains from my home is Hidden Valley. Ventura Farms is located in Hidden Valley. When visiting, the owner told us that this Japanese Tea House and bridge were constructed expressly to be a set for the film entitled Memoirs of a Geisha. So many surprises there, not the least of which was this beautiful setting. Hollywood worked it's magic again! When watching the film I thought I was seeing Japan.

Fran Teaches Tap

Though she is originally a Cecchetti trained ballerina, Fran has been substituting for Diane by teaching tap class. Many thanks to a dear friend and fellow "gypsy."

A New Dance

We are back in the first tap class after the holidays. Joe is choreographing a brand new dance, using music from an old Tommy Tune number from a Dean Martin television show.

Joe proudly told us he is joining the Golddiggers Show, on stage, which he has been directing and producing. Guess what? He will be performing the I WANNA BE A PRODUCER number from the musical named THE PRODUCERS.

Sunrise

Coming up from the East, the sunrise outlined Santa Catalina Island near the center of the horizon.

The squid fishing boats have been fishing overnight for the past few months. Those are the tiny specks adding interest to the scene.

At the same time, looking West, the clouds were reflecting the colors of the sunrise. What a beginning to the new year! I have been starting every day with a morning swim with this beautiful weather.

My camera has always been one of my greatest treasures. This Christmas I was given a new, more advanced, version and was I glad when this magnificence occurred yesterday morning.