I recently observed some children riding on a double-decker carousel on the pier in St. Tropez. Wiggling as the carousel wound to a stop, having spent the better part of the last ride deciding which horse or animal they would ride on, they determinedly jet out to the beast of their choice. Some of the children prefer the pretty ponies, painted in vibrant colors, dawning a feather in their mane. Others rush up the stairs to the second level, spying a stationary giraffe, light blue with painted florescent flowers on it. A few of the boys prefer the yellow motorcycle on the first level to a fantasy horse, still others set down on a porch swing meant for adults who are too large for to ride the animals…
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Artist Date: Lost in the translation. I am in Yokosuka, Japan. When I arrive the air is steamy with humidity -- much more intense than the steam I am used to in New England. There is something psychologically jarring about looking down a street, decorated with beautiful, colorful signs and not being able to read any of them. Not even the characters are recognizable. I am surrounded by the conversation of people walking in the streets who are speaking a language that I don't recognize. No "oui madam," no "como estas?" and no "danke schen," to be heard. Even the attempts that are made to speak in English are barely recognizable. The language is music, it rolls of their tongues with such confidence and passion. It makes me wish all the more that I knew what they were saying…
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Art: the Unique Holiday Gift
Whether you are looking for a unique gift for a grab bag or trying to buy something for the person who has everything, think about giving art for the holidays. Art comes in all shapes and sizes, all mediums, a variety of colors and price ranges. You also won't have to worry about someone duplicating your gift. Art galleries, museum gift shops, and open studios are all great places to find unusual gifts in your area. There are many different ways that you can buy art for friends and family. First, you can purchase an original work of art directly from an artist at an art show or open studio. Second, you can buy an "art experience" by purchasing tickets to a concert, play, museum exhibition opening or dance performance…
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