Over the past weekend I had the incredible pleasure of meeting artist Mickalene Thomas at her studio in Brooklyn. Even though the visit was work-related, I could not contain my star-struckness when meeting her (I mean I contained myself enough that I wasn't jumping up and down, fainting Michael-Jackson-concert-style). The studio space was huge and her unfinished works were even bigger--floor to ceiling wood panels, donned with crystals galore. The main reason why I fell in love with Mickalene's work in the first place was for the sheer fact that she often "blinged" out her work, and of course her technique and retro-seductive imagery of black women are exceptional. Anyway, I had to share my excitement with you! For those of you in the NYC area, Mickalene has her first solo show at the Brooklyn Museum entitled Origin of the Universe (through January 20, 2013). Be sure to check it out!
Pre-Nail Inspiration/Artist Spotlight: Mickalene Thomas
Hey guys, and happy Friday! Today, I will be getting my nails did for this month (!!), and I actually caught myself thinking about what to get. Usually, I pretty much decide when I'm at the salon, and it's a done deal. And in those on the spot decision moments, I usually don't go for something too complicated. But this morning, I was browsing through artist Mickalene Thomas's work (who is best known for her bold enamel and acrylic paintings adorned with rhinestones, glitter, and “bling") for her first solo exhibition opening tonight at the Santa Monica Museum of Art (which I am no where near geographically--so mad!), and couldn't help but feel inspired for my own "mini" canvi.
Bright, bold, and most importantly...GLITTERY! If I could get everything Mickalene Thomas for my small box studio apartment, AND a reproduction for my own living canvas (my nails) that would be perfect. Mickalene Thomas inspires me to continue on a glitter path (for my nails and in life...), with maybe an added little twist.We'll see!
Have a great weekend, ya'll!
Mickalene Thomas, Din, Une Très Belle Négresse, 2012. © Mickalene Thomas and Mickalene Thomas Studio, Inc. 2012.
Check out a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Mickalene Thomas's studio in Brooklyn posted on Life + Times.