louise on the left (coast)

Last week I posted a link related to a group of Russian artists (Voina) who create street art, or performance art . I have mixed opinions regarding their work, but I do think they are interesting, or rather, I find them entertaining, which is primarily why I wrote about them. However:  The way Voina described their own pretentious and obscure artistic goals really kind of bugged me. Why?  Well, because it's not the first time I've heard artists (including writers, photographers, choral directors, etc.) complain their work isn't understood. And, the truth is: I love art.  I want all of us who create from our hearts with our unique abilities to thrive.  I really do.  But, this is 2011.  And right now all of the arts are a tough sell. Here's some advice regarding this issue: Look, it's bad enough when people don't "understand" your art, but when that lack of understanding means you also can't pay the bills, eat, and/or thrive then it'

Hannah and Her Sisters , by Woody Allen.   It may be my favorite film of his, let alone of all time. Story centers around several members of Hannah's family, who unite at Thanksgiving. To be honest, it's during another Thanksgiving scene in the film that I find most moving, but I couldn't find it on YouTube.   If you haven't seen this film, yet.  What can I say?  Do.   It's wonderful.  You don't even have to love NYC, although it certainly helps if you do. Here's the opening clip of Hannah ... justifying it's presence on my holiday-themed film clip list.