UNC in DC scene

scroll down for credits :)

2006-11-07T18:53:00.000-08:00

http://massmoca.org/kidspace/current/index.html

soccer at the Capitol

2006-09-05T13:18:00.000-07:00

homeless for the night

2006-08-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

SO, yesterday a few of us laid in the street and slept on the corner of 3rd St. and Constitution Avenue. it was quite an experience, spending the night with the family of ants and cockroaches and hanging around the street signs. THose who spotted us (in cars and on foot) either stared in confusion, or tried to ignore us completely.

la la la, it's morning now. One more day to go.

remember this moment

2006-08-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

I have loved this summer. It's been amazing. I can't even explain its impact on me. This summer has changed me personally, socially, culturally, politically; if that makes sense.

I have been offered to return to ICAF for next summer and then travel to China to join ICAF's partner, Shanghai Cultural Development Center, for the summer after.

All I know, is that from now on, I will explore the many opportunities that are given to me. I will be more active in school. I will be more outgoing and social with my friends and class mates. I will be more assertive and speak out about my personal opinions to those around me. I will continue to strive to be a role model. I want to surprise, puzzle, and inspire others.

I have created a new, improved version of myself.
Finally I am happy with my self, as of now.

Remember this moment. :)

cartoon character voice

2006-08-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

So, today at ICAF, one of the interns told me that I had "a cute voice." He hinted that I should leave the art field and become a cartoon character. Not literally, but invent a character with the sound of my voice. Disney? Cartoon network? Anime? hmm. it's nice having options. :)

last weekend in d.c.

2006-08-06T16:22:00.000-07:00

This summer has been an amazing experience for me. I'm planning to spend my last week in D.C. wisely. This weekend was a blast! After the Monument tour, a group of us went to eat at the Ronald Reagan International Trade Center. Soon afterwards we headed to the Pentagon. It was a huge site. I bought a couple of souveniors, and then we headed down the numerous corridors of the buildings spotting army men and marines.

Friday evening at the Kennedy Center was fun. Kekele was planning at one of the plazas. After the hour of live music, we all went on the terrace to enjoy the lovely view of the city. Honestly, I liked the terrace view better than the Monument view; although both were great. Afterwards we went to Ben's Chilli Bowl, a famous family owned restaurant, where many celebrities have been spotted such as Bill Cosby.

Saturday began with working on final papers and internet games at Ebenzer's coffee shop near Union Station. In 1908, a German immigrant built a idner at that corner. After decades of neglect, it was purchased by National Community Church. The vision was to restore the property back to its orginial purpose as a place where the local community could enjoy a cup of coffee in a comfortable coffeehouse. The environment is very laid back, and on the lower level, bands play on the weekends.

Later a friend and I ate at White Tiger and talked about family matters and personal experiences.

We ordered a feast, as I'm sure the waiters probably wondered how we were going to consume all the dishes. (leftovers are great) Afterwards a group of us headed for VA. 12 stops on the orange line later, we spent a night with blues and Thai food. Saturday was a fun day.

Sunday was my work and shopping day. Sarah and I spent our morning in Seattles Best Coffee in Borders (near metro center), and then I headed to Pentagon City for some fun shopping. Oh yeah...and I had my with dippin dots tasting, candy bar crunch to be specific. :) I'm finally back, and maybe movie time? We'll see. It's been a great weekend, and I can't wait to see what else is in store for my last week in dc. Happy DCing. :)

Truman Lounge

2006-08-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

Today most of the interns went to the District of Columbia Public Library to install the "Peace Through Art: World Pieces" exhibit. This is the last week for several of the Georgetown program interns, so afterwards, we had lunch at the National Press Club.

We ate in the Truman Lounge, which holds the Club's most interesting artifacts such as the piano Harry Truman and Hollywood starlet, Lauren Bacall played in 1945.

balcony view

2006-08-02T14:59:00.000-07:00

ICAF is located at the very top of a building in dupont circle. It is the 12th floor to be exact. Yesterday I went outside and stood on the balcony with the other interns. it was an amazing view and refreshing atmosphere. I feel on top of the world, and I don't want to lose this feeling. We are leaving in one week. :(

Bridging the Gap with Jazz

2006-07-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

After listening to jazz friday in class and in the garden, I thought I might share a few jazzy artists that I like. They aren't as traditional as those artists that emerged in the early 1900s, which we heard in class. Instead they are more modern, and I thought any of you might be interested. If you are I have a lot of their songs on Itunes.

Rachael Yamagata
Corainne Bailey Rae
Diana Krall (from Dr. Cox)
Jamie Cullum
Sophie Milmum
Ryan Farish
Lisa Ekdahl
Chicago
KT Tunstall

2006-07-28T20:22:00.000-07:00

long, exciting, but tiring day

Class
Senate Hearing
"Women Education in Saudi Arabia" at the Library of Congress
"Before Harlem, there was U street"
Union Station lunch
Jazz in the Garden
Vietnam Restaurant
Georgetown

------------
Just a few notes from "Women Education in Saudi Arabia"

The government pays stipends to those who attend government institutions.

Education seems to focus on career fields and job markets.

At Effat College, internship is a requirement to graduation.

Just this fall, engineering will be offered to Saudi Arabian women.

Effat College: Not only do you have an academic transcript, but you have a student development transcript including every lecture, workship, internship, community service, leadership seminar, teamwork building event you attend.

www.effatcollege.edu

Interview with Dr. Ishaq

2006-07-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I interviewed Executive Director, Ashfaq Ishaq, Ph.D. He provided very interesting insight for career fields and everyday life. We spent about 40 minutes in his office talking about life, experience, education, and the future.

Afterwards I felt pumped and ready for new opportunities. He offered me a potential internship at the Shanghai Cultural Development Program for next summer, if I promised to learn Chinese. After his interview I rethought about my educational/career goals. I have created a new plan for my 2.5 years left in college, focusing on skill sets and interest, rather than just career fields.

There are several comments that I can not stop thinking about which are: How can you be on top of the world when working for institutions that were created with 20th century foundations? Education and experience must be based on skill set and dealing with where creativity lies and where everything else (like imagination) is or will follow...

"Look at the heritage you have. With your parents unique background (Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, China, Taiwan) you can relate to at least 2 billion people. Have you thought about connecting with them through your work?"

So, this interview had a positive effect on me. I feel very open minded to any career field or opportunity in general. My classes that I have planned to take will be very well-rounded And specialized. Thanks Dr. Ishaq. :)

Hirshhorn and Sculpture Garden

2006-07-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

Fourth Annual Summer Intern Event

2006-07-26T12:42:00.000-07:00

Today I asked off work for the Fourth Annual Summer Intern Event with U.S. Senator Barrack Obama and NBC's Tim Russert. The event took place at the Warner Theatre; the entire room was packed with interns from all over the nation. It was a town hall meeting on Making A Difference Through Public Service.

Following the meeting was a career fair that consisted of U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of State, National Aeronautics and Space administration, U.S. Social Security Administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Smithsonian, and Congressional Budget Office, to name a few.

Just a Few Interesting Facts:

* More than 50,000 federal employees work abroad.
* Only 16% of government employees work in DC area.
*Half of the nation's 1.9 million federal employees may be eligible to retire in the next five years-meaning that's a lot of job openings.

Learn how you man make a difference through public service at www.calltoserve.org

DC IMPROV

2006-07-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday night was so much fun. Four of us went to the DC Improv Comedy & Restaurant near Dupont Circle. Flip Orley, America's Premier Comic Hypnotist From "Entertainment Tonight," was the entertainer for the night. His jokes weren't the funniest, but the hypnotism was hilarious.

If you're interested, he's still performing July 18-30.

However, the cover fee is about $15 and there's a minimum charge of two items during the event. Also, if you plan to get goods seats you may want to arrive early because the seat are a first come basis.

Upcoming:
Todd Glass
From Comedy Central, HBO and " Last Comic Standing"

For more information: http://www.dcimprov.com/coming.shtml

ICAF update

2006-07-25T20:40:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been really busy at ICAF, but it is interesting and valuable experience. I was assigned to compare pricing for presentation easels for an upcoming ICAF exhibit show. Along with that, I am to help write about the expressive qualities of Katrina artworks, which will be displayed in exhibit, "Contemporary Catastrophe." Another exhibit I'm working on labels for is "Children of Katrina."

For the Media Relations Coordinator, I am to continue with comparative image research as well as research for articles relating to children education and art.

I've been continuing the Healing Arts Calendar, by adding significant quotes and continuing the layout designs. Overall it's done. We are just waiting for a reply from our potential sponsor/partner. As of now, the calendar sample is with the CEO of the company. The prospect that the calendar might be published is very exciting news.

Also, because I'm in charge of the Kidszone: Voices of Youth Expressed Through Art exhibition at Mass MoCA, I am finalizing the ICAF opening exhibit/mission statement and artwork descriptions, which I will send to Laura Thompson, Ed.D, Director of Exhibitions and Education.

On a side note, several of the new interns are arriving while others will be leaving soon. So we are all hoping we can all go out for lunch together.

sushi taro

2006-07-22T22:19:00.000-07:00

So, this post is dedicated to the delicious japanese food I had tonight at Sushi Taro.

I had Chef's Omakase( a platter of nigiri sushi), Edamame, Alaska Roll, Yellow Tuna Roll, and Spider Roll. Even though i'm spoiled with japanese food when I visit my mom's side of the family (as my uncle owns a japanese restaurant), dinner was wonderful. The ambience was inviting with its wooden floors and neighborly seating area. The Green Tea ice cream was the highlight of dinner. It was concentrated with flavor and wasn't at all too sweet. Yummy.

Sushi Taro (you should try it)
1503 17th Street NW
Washington, DC 20036

202-462-8999

Glimpses into Unseen Places Creating Non-traditional Books

2006-07-22T13:57:00.000-07:00

Today i attended the first session of the two day workshop of Glimpses into Unseen Places Creating Non-traditional Books at the Hirshhorn Gallery. Being a teen workshop, I was surrounded by middle schoolers but I didn't mind so much because the workshop was awesome. Because my concentration is in printmaking is was interesting to speak about the promoted exhibit of Anselm Kiefer with papermaker, Gretchen Schermerhorn.

We were introduced to papermaking terms and techniques. We used abaca, cotton, and flax to create paper with a deckle and mould, along with the organic items that we brought with us such as flowers, rice, coffee grounds, loose leaf tea bags, etc.

Next week, we'll be binding the papers together and creating personal collages influenced by Anselm Kiefer's exhibit, Heaven and Earth.
---------------------
"I'm interesting in reconstructing symbols. It's about connecting with an older knowledge and trying to discover continuities in why we serach for heaven."
-Anselm Kiefer

Heaven and earth. Hope and skepticism. Creation and destruction. These dualities suggest the ways in which they overlap and merge with one another. This sense of layering is essential to an understanding of Kiefer's art as a whole. His materials, a blend of traditional media and natural elements, not only evoke the potential and limitations of transformation, but are as symbolically charged as his imagery. Earth, ash, dried plants, clay become allussions to history, mythology, relgion and art.

National Press Club

2006-07-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

Today after our class field trips to the National Museum of American History and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum I headed to Dupont Circle to meet the Media Relations Coordinator of International Child Art Foundation. She invited me to dinner at the National Press Club in downtown D.C.

It was interesting learning more about her experience and impressions of life. Growing up in several countries such as Tunisia, Pakistan, Morocco (just to name a few), her father was in the National Foreign Service and is now an executive director of a local organization for retired diplomats. I spoke with him at dinner as well, and he was very charming. He spoke about the influence of arts and culture.

After he left, Patricia and I ordered dessert ( mocha napoleon with blackberry and blueberry compote) and spoke about random interesting aspects of culture, art, and psychology. It was a nice way to end a busy week for ICAF.

Headlines (printed in the United States of America) from Friday, July 14, 2006

2006-07-19T06:30:00.000-07:00

"Let's forget about global warming and talk about flag burnig and gay marriage. I don't know how long you can milk that old cow." - Former President Bill Clinton (Vail Daily, July 10)

Baltimore Day Trip

2006-07-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

Highlight dinner of the week: Grilled Rainbow Trout with Maple Baste and Apple Chutney, with a side of green beans and julienne carrots, mashed potatoes, and sourdough bread

Cosi Saturday :)

2006-07-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

I filled my day with very random things yesterday. On the way to Union Station I ran into "Spitter." This is probably the rudest thing that has happened to me on this trip. A guy approaches Sarah and me; he suddenly stops; he tilts his head in the air and spits; then he runs away laughing... so nevertheless he spit on us. It was disgusting.
We then took the Metro and hung out at Foggy Bottom: GWU Campus and Hospital, Shops to Go, cafe, fountains, and the Concoran Gallery of Art. It reminded me of those days when I wanted to attend a well-known art school. The gallery focused on minimalism, abstract expressionism, contemporary sculpures, etc (which I find very interesting). It displayed prominent artists such as Renoir and Monet to high school student works to contemporary artists. :)

Afterwards we ventured through Chinatown where we did some shopping at Urban Outfitters and ordered lunch at Potbelly. At Union Station we watched Devil Wears Prada. It was a cute movie, but it wasn't as good as I thought it'd be. It was a bit offensive with the fat jokes calling people by the size they wore. Funny but offensive to say the least. Ironically it did make me miss New York City and the part of me who always wanted to work for a magazine.

Finally the day ended with Smores at Cosi. It was awesome as it reminded me of fall bond fires with friends and family.

FUn friday night

2006-07-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

Last night my room mate and I dressed up and went downtown. We had a fabulous night shopping for very urbanesque clothes and browsing girlie magazines in Borders. Afterwards we headed to a Red Stage, a modern restaurant influenced by cuisine from the American West, for dessert. Around ten o'clock we headed to see the gorgeous view of the South end of the White House at night. After passing by several fountains, memorials, and parks, we passed through the prominent Willard Hotel. The architecture and decor was absolutely beautiful with high ceilings, diamond chandeliers, formal ballrooms, red carpet staircases, and marble bathroom floors.

Red Sage
605 Fourtteenth Street NW
Washington, DC

Capitol Tour

2006-07-14T15:35:00.000-07:00

Contantino Brumidi's painting, The Apotheosis of Washington (1865), in the Rotunda of the Capitol

Today as a class we went to tour the Capitol. Sarah was my tour guide and kindly brought our group to Senator Burr's office. It was interesting to both the supporters that work for him and the working space of in the Capitol.

"Just say that Sammy did it..." / The Trials of Darryl Hunt

2006-07-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

FILM SCREENING: The Trials of Darryl Hunt
Tuesday, 11 July 2006 @ 6:30 p.m.
Landmark's E Street Cinema

Today I went to a DC premiere of a riveting documentary about race, injustice, and ignorance. The panel included Clyde Williams, Vice President of State and Local Government Relations of the Center for American Progress, Nkechi Taifa, Senior Policy Analyst for the Open Society Insitute, Mark Rabil, Mr. Hunt's attorney, and Darryl Hunt, himself.

Darryl Hunt was 19 years old when he was wrongfully charged with the 1984 rape and murder of Deborah Sykes, a 26-year-old white copy editor for the evening paper in Winston Salem, NC. Despite no physical evidence connecting Hunt, who is black, to the crime, juries twice convicted him of the murder based upon four eyewitnesses, including a former Klansman. The second all-white jury found Hunt guilt a second time, largely based on the emotionally stirring argument of the special prosecutor.

Nineteen and a half years later, in 2004, a court exonerated him following the DNA identification of the real killer. Born in Winston Salem, he continues to live there advocating for criminal justice reform especially on the death penalty. He serves as Executive Director for the Darryl Hunt Project for Freedom and Justice, which established a re-entry program for felons released from prison, and also works in association with the innocnce projects of five law schools in North Carolina.

With personal narratives and footage, the film frames the judicial and emotion responses to this chilling crime- and the implications surrounding Hunt's conviction- against a backdrop of racial prejudice in America.

Never did he once seek revenge or curse his enemies. The most touching aspect of the panel was seeing Darryl love, humanity, and faith. He tells the youth, above all, to "Believe in yourself" and faith will eventually guide the way.

Resources: http://www.breakthrufilms.org/, Center for American Progress, campusprogress.org

Another trip to Botanic Gardens

2006-07-09T15:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Tai Shan!

2006-07-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the National Zoo to celebrate Tai Shan's 1st birthday!

Although I did not stay for the whole day...several activities were set up for Tai's zoo party guests. Two of DC's finest resaurants served special desserts in honor of his birthday. Goodie bag treats were handed out, special shows and information sessions were held, birthday cards were created, special treats for Tai were presented, and donation stands were set up all over the place. Almost every visitor carried home with him a panda bear, but of course, they were not as cute as Tai himself. Tai Shan now weighs 55 pounds and has begun training sessions. For more photographs and information: http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/

Enjoy the photos. :)

happy fourth!

2006-07-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

UNCC friends visit

2006-07-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening some of my friends visited from UNCC. We all soon realized that driving was a bad idea, but we got past that. After unpacking, we ate at America in Union Station and then headed to the Washington Monument and the White House. The White House is hardly visible in my photographs due to the surrounding greenery and gate.

Sunday was a lot of fun. We first soaked up the sun in the sculpture garden and threw pennies in the Ice Rink. Soon after we visited the Museum of Natural History. Although I had previously visited the museum upon my arrival in May, strolling along with Chemistry and Biology majors made an informative, but very funny tour. After lunch in the Ronald Reagan Trade Building, we drove to Georgetown to shop for a bit.

Dinner was delectable at the Daily Grille. The atmosphere was formal, but cosy. As all the stores began to close, we ventured to Dupont Circle, where we met very outgoing characters, one of which asked us to by a candle. After we declined, he began to read poetry. A few fake phone calls later, we sat outside Krispy Creme and a man approached us, first announcing "i'm not homeless...but..."

Anyways, it was an eventful weekend to say the least. Here are the pics.

possible T-shirt design

2006-07-01T13:56:00.000-07:00

national portrait museum (Grand Opening)

2006-07-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

my family's visit

2006-06-30T23:04:00.000-07:00

oh and... being an escalefter

2006-06-29T20:27:00.000-07:00

After eating both my meal and dessert and walking around all night, I slowly walked down the neverending Woodley Park metro escalator. Did I say walked? I actually SAT down. oops. sorry for my escalefter behavior

Maggie Moo's

2006-06-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

Tonight was another girl's night out. A group of us went to Adams Morgan to grab some dinner. We ended up at an Indian restaurant (oops i forgot the name); my sheek kabob was delicious, but the roti was only average. Even though we were all stuffed, we then devoured ice cream from Maggie Moo's Ice Cream and Treatery.

You basically create your own ice cream by selecting award-winning ice cream flavors (like Better Batter, Cafe Cubana, Apple Strudel, Cinamoo, Egg Nog, etc) and choose mix ins, such as butterfinger, nuts, coconut, almonds, and fruit. I had creme brulee ice cream with twix and ate every bit. Another great night out in D.C.

War Tapes/ICAF artwork

2006-06-28T19:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight I was fortunate enough to see the opening of The War Tapes at E Street Cinema.

It captivates the raw essence of the War in Iraq. Honestly, it wasn't as great as I had anticipated in the sense of artistically beautiful scenes, thoughtful camera shots, emotional epiphanies, planned color schemes, subtle symbolism - all of which I expect in artful films on social/political issues such as Osama, Salaam Bombay, Central Station. Amores Perros...-it is definitely not one of those kind of films. But as a documentary, it does have an interesting perspective on the war. It provides commentary on the true lives of soldiers (political, military point of view) and the lives of their families as well.

SERGEANT ZACK BAZZI, one of the soldiers in the film, was actually on a panel along with three others (including the producer) after the screening. I connected with his suggested need for cultural education to help alleviate world conflicts.

Interning at ICAF, children from all over the nation hope for a day for world peace, which presently seems impossible. Yet, they try to bridge the gap between global communities through their art.

Samuel is growing up in Mendi, a provincial capital in central Papua New Guinea, one of the remotest places in the world. The traditional world of parents and ancestors collide with the modern world. He believes that he has a natural right to good education. But education is expensive and to obtain it he must forego working and earning money.

Nigeria has over 114 million people making it the most populated country on the continent. Innocent Nigerians face crime and corruption every day, but Linda says hope is present. The bird of peace glows white light on their dark troubles, as the people pray for a better future.

Permanent says, “My Africa is Crying.” When politics rips open the social fabric of a society; when families are divided and relatives become enemies; when there is no end in sight for human suffering, this is Permanent’s reality. Living in Monrovia, Liberia, where a bitter civil war was fought from 1980 to 1997, he worries over Liberia’s ruining economy and closing schools.

Leadership Lecture with Tom Daschele

2006-06-26T15:04:00.000-07:00

Personal Notes from Center for American Progress special event:

4 Roles of a Congressman
-legislative actions/ cast votes
-ambassador role modeling
-political leader/encourage for participation
-assistance/help "save" people

3 Different Lives
Washington Life- from Tuesday to Thursdays
State Life- Constant meetings
Personal Life- Family life

"If your children become more of a liability than an asset, then everything else no longer matters." To often, this is the order many political leaders go by, family should always be first. But, it is hard to maintain a balance.

"Only about 10% of bills actually get introduced."

Never look on to your oppponent as a way to decide participation.

The media has an important role. What they do is necessary, unless they gospel. "I don't like the screamers," and too many times bloggers become prominent with no actual truth.

I'm a big fan of John Stewart; he had invited on the show a while ago.

BOOK RECOMMENDATION: The Weather Makers

LEVANTE'S

2006-06-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

LEVANTE'S sits across from the ICAF building near Dupont Circle. Ever since I started my internship, I've wondered about what the restaurant looks like beyond their wood doors and how the food tastes.

Well, just last week my director asked me out for lunch, saying he knew a great restaurant nearby. As we walked out of the building, to my surprise, we entered the restaurant passing the hostess (I guess he's a regular?) and headed straight to a table. It was wonderful. The atmosphere was charming and beautiful. The bread was yummy as well, it was pita and flat bread baked fresh and served hot.

The word "Levante" is derived from "Levantine" which describes the eastern Mediterranean coastal region that today includes: Turkey, Greece and extends into Lebanon and Israel. The tastes and flavors of that region come alive at Levante's. All dishes are made in the Levante tradition using only fresh ingredients. It is the first restaurant group to offer eastern mediterranean cuisine in a casual dining environment in dc. Natural stone and light wood interiors envelope guests, whiel wood-fired ovens produce charcoal-grilled meats and vegetables.

However, the company was the best aspect of the lunch. We connected through discussion of Pakistani culture. Just listening to him discuss his background helped me understand more about my dad's past (as he grew up in Pakistan). It was very pleasant talking to ICAF Director on both business concerns and personal everyday life. Hopefully, we'll go out again. :)

www.levantes.com

Whistler on Nature/Gallery photos

2006-06-25T06:46:00.000-07:00

Whistler on Nature and Art

Nature contains the elements, in colour and form, of all pictures, as the keyboard contains the notes of all music.

But the artist is born to pick, and chose, and group with science, these elements, that the result may be beautiful- as the musician gather his notes, and forms his chords, until he brings forth from chaos glorious harmony.

To say to the painter, that Nature is to be taken as she is, is to say to the player, that he may sit on the piano.

That Nature is always right, is an assertions, artistically, as untrue, as it is one whose truth is universally taken for granted. Nature is very rarely right, to such an extent even, that it might almost be said that Nature is usually wrong: that is to say, the condition of things that shall bring about the perfection of harmony worthy a picture is rare, and not common at all.

From James McNeill Whistler (1885)

Freer and Sackler

2006-06-25T06:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I visited the exhibitions in the Freer and Sackler Smithsonians. I had orginially applied for an internship there, but did not get the position. Upon my arrival, I wondered what it would be like to be to work at This museum. To be surrounded by a blend of cultures that are a part of my ancestry.

Being at an art museum is very much like being at the beach for me. The beach allows me to ponder over my dreams, worries, and it brings me to peace on many issues. From the dark it sheds beautiful self-discovery.

During my visit to the museum there were several instances that created a very spiritual awakening. All I wanted to do was meditate, pray, live like my ancestors have. With incense, hand mudras, mantras... and all.

The novel, SIDDARTHA, had a similar effect on me; however, it was more of a spiritual effect rather than a personal self-discovery.

Any attempt to describe my personal experience could never fully captivate its exact significance that it has had on me. So no details are attached. But, here's a question: What impact does your ancestry have on you?

Anacostia/Chinatown

2006-06-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

2006-06-19T15:55:00.000-07:00

who just got soaked by the DC monsoon five minutes ago... me me meee. lol

Union Station in 1973

2006-06-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

It is almost impossible to walk through this station almost everyday, without thinking about the accomplishment of unity between brilliant creative minds from past planners, constructors, architects, advocates, presidents (johnson, kennedy, nixon) that allowed this metro system to happen. As a symbol of urbanity, I'm excited to be able to interact with others on a daily basis at this monumental place in the city. Shops, food, people, coffee, muffins, coffee, music, art, and coffee. Union Station brings together the poor and the rich and the young and the old,... and lately, it has been a generous friend to the arts. The VSA art exhibit: View From My Window promotes art creativity for all children; however, the displayed work has been created by disabled children (check it out if you want, it's still up).

Response to Great Society Subway

2006-06-19T13:51:00.001-07:00

Response to The Great Society Subway
by Zachary M. Schrag

More about Chicago Architect Harry Weese

Born in 1915, Harry Weese received his bachelor's degree in 1938 at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Throughout his blossoming career he embraced the social, political, and economic realities of contemporary urban life. It is not surprising that the National Capital Transportation Agency would hire Weese for the design of the DC metro.

Harry Weese was challenged to create an aesthetically pleasing rapid transit system for Washington D.C. After touring the systems throughout Europe and Japan, Weese proposed a spacious, column-free station. He sought out cut-and-cover stations, box-shaped stations, and vaults, in order to provide more space for less cost. When he presented his model of a coffered vault station, everyone was impressed. His model displayed simplistic concrete construction to give a classical touch.

As his design created a luxurious and "one of the largest public project works ever built," he was later recognized for his innovated designs of the US embassy in Accra, Ghana; the Arena Stage near DC, restoration of Louis Sullivan's Auditorium in Chicago. Awarded honors for urban planning AND fine arts, he was elected to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects in 1961.

Resource: http://chnm.gmu.edu/metro/arc2.html#
http://www.artic.edu/aic/libraries/caohp/weeseh.html

old post pavilion

2006-06-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

A rose for you

2006-06-16T14:28:00.000-07:00

near the Ronald Reagan Trade Center

Internship update

2006-06-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

YES! I have just received three projects which I have a great interest for. Firstly, I am assigned to recreate/edit an ICAF 2007 ChildArt Calendar. This calendar will not only help elevate the work of children from all over the world, but it will especially promote the ICAF Healing Arts Program.

Secondly, I am to help organize an art exhibit that will be held at Mass MoCA. Kidspace is holding an art exhibition, Kidsview: Voices of Youth Expressed Through Art, at MASS MoCA. Offering a look at how international children (ages 6-17) visually express their enjoyment of and concerns for the world they live in. Most importantly, this exhibit will mark the first time MASS MoCA will feature a “totally youth-made art exhibition, with historical components (some artwork deating back to 50 years),” says Laura Thompson, Ed. D, Director of Exhibitions and Education for Kidspace.

As both projects will help empower young people in communities throughout the world, it will encourage individuality by making a positive difference in the world, while giving voice to children hopes and concerns. The Munich Children’s Festival is the most recent ICAF festival. I have been assigned to create a photo pamphlet to be handed out to the honorary directors that attended the event.

Capital Pride Festival/Shortz Film Fest

2006-06-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

I had a very eventful day. After going to buy vegetables from Eastern Market I went to the Capital Pride Festival. It continues to be the largest one-day street festival in the metropolitan area as it was from 11:30am until 7 p.m. This year was the 31st Annual Washington, D.C. Pride Street Festival with over 200,000 people. It was a full day of vendors, non-profit organizations, and live entertainment. Although I missed performances by Amy Armstrong, Rachel Panay, and Kimberley Locke, performances I saw were the X Faction Dance Performers and a performance acting parts of the musical RENT.

As this week served to show lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered pride, I thought that I'd be a bit uncomfortable with the whole thing, yet that wasn't the case. It was a very interesting and different type of festival. As there were many couples showing public signs of affection, I found it surprising to see so many families attending as well. Little kids were dancing along to the performances and going to each non-profit organizations to receive free give aways. It was nice to go to a festival so diverse, in almost every aspect. There was a lot of love and energy, which was very powerful. As we are all are entitled to have our own opinions, I'm glad that the same-sex marriage bill was rejected in Congress this week.

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After the street festival, I headed to the MHz Shortz Student Film Festival at George Washington University. Families and the community joined together to congratulate the 2006 student winners for their creativity in film making. Honoring ages from 7 to 18, this year's films represent many young voices on documentaries about autism, music, relationship between schools, historical accounts of the NY subway, stereotypes, violence, etc.

My favorite films of the evening was a serious documentary on kids perspective of the pros/cons of joining a gang and the other was a precious claymation of two snowmen. Another great child art promoting organization, MHz is a great organization that invites kids to find various ways to stretch their imagination and express their perspective on life.

Kids Extralooza 06 at l'enfant plaza

2006-06-10T17:40:00.000-07:00

This afternoon was the Kids Extralooza 06 in L'enfant Plaza. It is an annual event held to promote the National Children's Museum. This year it was sponsored by AOL and hosted by KOL. The performance were by the Boys and Girls club of Washington DC. Many of the kids were very talented hip hop dances and singers. Songs consisted of God Bless America, Freedom is Coming, Seasons of love... yet the highlight of the event was Hillary Duff's charity concert. She played her newest songs and old ones as well. Crowded with kids, they almost knocked me over (as I was in the very front). Despite my very very bad sun burn on my arms and neck, it was a great event.

Dupont Circle Street Jazz Players

2006-06-09T19:57:00.000-07:00

MAI THAI

2006-06-09T14:35:00.000-07:00

After the internship workshop with Joel, Sarah and I headed off to Alexandria. He took the red line to Chinatown and then the yellow line to King St. Alexandria is very welcoming; the architecture is cozy, while the area is full of boutiques, shops, and restaurants. We had a late lunch at MAI THAI, which is a modern restaurant serving Thai cuisine near the waterfront. Enjoy the pictures.

ANDERSON COOPER :)

2006-06-07T18:45:00.000-07:00

YAY! THIS has made my WEEK! I went to Olsson's Bookstore tonight for an author's discussion/signing. Dispatches From The Edge...by ANDERSON COOPER! wow. I've liked him ever since the first season of The Mole came out. It was so great! I stood all the way in the back as short as can be, thinking he was already on the "stage." Yet, suddenly the door behind me opens and there he was, with his smile. :) He seems like such a gentleman.

Although I've been heels from 7:30 am, till 9:30pm, it's completely worth it. I have shook Anderson Cooper's hand and now I can't stop smiling. haha. I'm such a girlie.

p.s. Being an art major, I asked him to draw a smilie. lol

Second day at ICAF

2006-06-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

Today I arrived and met Dr. Ishaq. He was very interested in my background and the accomplishments from North Carolina. He showed us photographs of European Children’s Festival 2006 in Munich, which is the most recent festival for ICAF. It was a special event that celebrates diversity in European arts and culture, increases awareness of children’s contributions to cross-cultural understanding through art, and uses people to people diplomacy to strengthen trans-European and trans-Atlantic relationship (which I learned from both the Ishaq and www.icaf.org).

After becoming more acquainted with the Munich festival, I was assigned to the next issue of ChildArt, the ICAF magazine. It will be a colloborative project with among the interns and partners of ICAF. I helped email participants of the event, asking them to send a brief article and some photographs of their memorable experience. Afterwards I created a list of who was emailed, his/her affiliation, and requested author.

Sometimes They Surface

2006-06-05T17:44:00.000-07:00

By Anthony Papa, a prisoner of Sing Sing, and artist

Sometimes they surface, those images of awe
Like waves in the hurricane that is my existence
They live in the corner of my mind
Other times they sleep, waiting
To be awakened by emotions like shoes on feet.
My moods hang on whispers like a pair of earrings
Telling stories of my life from the deepest part of my soul
Sprinkling my roots with imagination
Growing into monsters that haunt my memories
With abstract visions of persecution that sometimes surface.

From 10 to Life

Officially an ICAF Intern

2006-06-05T13:13:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Dupont Circle forty-five minutes before I was supposed to start my internship, so I stopped at Cosi's. I ordered hot black tea and read 10 to Life. Afterwards I headed up the elevator and entered the ICAF office, where I met two other interns, Samantha and Alex. Alex showed me around.

Most of the morning I read all ICAF's ChildArt Magazines to become more attuned to its format, content, etc. ChildArt not only stimulates imagination and creativity for both kids and adults, but promotes child art education, by using art as a universal language. Past articles include "The Art of Healing," "Sandcastles," "Origami and Therapy," "The Body as Architecture," "The Art of Dreaming," "Is She or Isn't He?," and many more.

Also, I started to catalogue incoming artwork from children ALL over the WORLD! It was amazing to compare/contrast the drawings/paintings. I organized pieces from Malaysia, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Slovenia, Costa Rica, and the United States. As the Third Olympaid is only a year away, my internship revolves mostly around this project.

www.icaf.org

Philippines Festival

2006-06-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

National Archive Museum

2006-06-04T17:23:00.000-07:00

I went to the National Archive Museum, but I did not expect a LINE. It was too long, but the lady would not allow a single file line to form, so we were all bunched together. It is a museum full of historical documents such as the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and Constitution. The gift shop is also full of fun items like the Einstein doll. :) I wanted one, but I had to settle for the photo. :) Anyways, here's some pictures:

Dupont Circle: Plenty to Do

2006-06-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

Second Story Books: Today the class bought books at Dupont Circle's Second Story Books, a cute little used bookstore. Most of the books were 50% the hardcover book price. The book I chose, 15 To Life: How I Painted My Way To Freedom, is a story that puts a "face on the nearly one million nonviolent drug offenders confined throughout the country," says Susan Sarandon. As we all chose books that related to the Washington Experience and/or our internship, this autobiography clearly conveys art as a way to heal pain and suffering, a mission of the International Child Art Foundation. As we have one week to finish our books, I decided to find a relaxing environment to read in...

Caribou Coffee: Sarah and I decided to catch up and get a cold drink at Caribou Coffee near Connecticut Ave. It's a great place to sit back and relax BESIDES Starbucks. (THank goodness for other cafes...I've tried to boycott them as they are TAKING over the world.) Caribou has tasty smoothies (Passion Fruit Green Tea Smoothie) and cold iced coffees (Cold Pressed Iced Coffee with Caramel).

Raku: For dinner a group of us went to Raku, an Asian style tapas restaurant. The menu consists of light dishes such as Cucumber Salad, Pad Thai, and Agedashi. My dinner was both light and flavorful; I had Tempura Combo and Alaska Roll (although the sushi was much smaller than usual). Look yummy? :)

http://www.washingtonian.com/dining/Profiles/rakuMay_2002.html

Arlinton Cemetery Response

2006-06-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

Want to Learn More About Sir Moses?

Born on October 28, 1844 in Richmond, Virginia, Ezekiel was one of fourteen children of a Jewish family. His grandparents, of Spanish-Jewish origin, had immigrated into the US to flee the earlier years of Spanish Inquisition. His mother sent him off to learn the arts of war.

Moses Jacob Ezekiel was a U.S. sculptor who greatly incorporated history into his artwork. Graduating from VMI in 1866, he then studied anatomy at the medical College of Virginia. After moving to Cincinnati in 1868, he visited Germany where he stayed at the Royal Academy of Art under Professor Albert Wolf. With several monument sculptures later, his work became largely known after 1886. Most of his media is marble or bronze, while his Realist Style present allegory, historical portrait accounts.

With exhibitions of "Christ in the Tomb," "Judith Slaying Holofornes," "Sophocles," 11 decorative portrait statues in the Old Corcoran Art Gallery, "Columbus" (Chicago World's Fair), " "Stonewall," and "The Martyer", Ezekiel has been praised for symbolic statues. Referred to in America as "Sir Moses" to his Italian and German honors, from a Confederate Cadet to a World-Famous Artist, he has greatly touched many the South through his heroic sculptures.

• Virginia Mourning her Dead (Lexington, Virginia)
• Jefferson Monument (for Thomas Jefferson) (Louisville, Kentucky)
• Confederate Soldiers' Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery
• Religious Liberty at National Museum of American Jewish History Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Resources: http://www.answers.com/topic/moses-jacob-ezekiel
http://civilwarclipart.com/civilwar/moses_ezekiel.html
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/ezekiel.htm

Arlington Cemetery Snapshots from June 2, 2006

US Botanic Garden/Hirshhorn

2006-06-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

The US Botanic Gardens is a wonderful place for people of all ages to enjoy the beauties of nature. My favorite part of the gardens was the orchid exhibit; orchids have fascinating form, pattern, and color. Many of the orchids I had never seen before, while others are more commonly sold in stores such as Target or Home Depot. Also another must see is the SHRIMP PLANT... it's a flower that is very unique in shape and pattern. Its color resembles the color of a cooked shrimp. (It is on the upper level of the Jungle.)

The Hirshhorn Museum is currently inbetween a few exhibits, yet there is still much to see. The tour provided art history and revealed content of some of the art works. The lady was so nice and informative; it seemed as though she had taught art in the past because of her deep background information that she told us and her eager willingness to hear our thoughts about the works. Some works included mobiles by Calder, sculptures by Matisse, and paintings by Kooning. After the tour was over, Anem and I went back to see the pieces that were not covered in the tour, and I immediately recognized one work, as I had watched a documentary on the artist in my Silkscreen and Woodcut spring class. As the documentary was very outdated and was poor in quality, it was wonderful to see the actual work infront of me. :)

After all the walking on Independence Ave., I found the Native American Museum food court very interesting. It is set up by regional foods such as Great Plains, MesoAmerica, etc. I had fry bread with a side of roasted potatoes and a cup of Spicy Squash soup. The bread was delicious with the soup, as the fry bread (pita bread shape) is very dippable. :)

Sensuality M. I. Goulding

2006-05-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the Foundry Gallery to see the The Female Nude in Black and White Photography or "Sensuality" by Michael Ian Goulding. This exhibit will remain open until July 2, 2006. The pieces were very simple and focused on experimentation of light and shadow. He explored poses that resurface historical Greek sculpture to abstractions of the female form.

Foundry Gallery
1314 18th Street NW
Washington, DC 20036
202-463-0203

Hours Open: Wednesday–Sunday 12–6 pm
www.foundrygallery.org

National Gallery of Art

2006-05-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

Today I went to both the Museum of Natural History and National Gallery of Art. The Leaf Insect is a must see at the insect natural history exhibit! However, although historical fossils are significant in understanding today, I was more fascinated by the National Gallery of Art. Although I have visited the museum before, this visit was especially valuable, because I just finished art history courses that include works from the National Gallery exhibits such as Madonna and Child and The Japanese Footbridge. It is so wonderful to be able to see the works in person rather than just in a textbook; they are much more powerful. With both a West and East Building, the East Building is full of some of my favorite artists- Mondrian, Picasso, Warhol, Pollack... Contemporary art is great for its abstract expressionism and content. I am especially interested in prints and paintings. I will definitely be back very soon. :)

long walk

2006-05-29T19:33:00.000-07:00

Today Sarah and I walked all across DC...to the sculpture garden (I tossed a penny into the water fountain and purposefully made it shoot into the air. fun fun) , white house, barnes and nobles, hotel George, RR International Trade Center...etc. However, we ended at the US Monument and stayed there till nightfall. It was absolutely beautiful! I laid there lying on the curved marble (?) benches looking at the flags, Capitol, and monument Upside DOWN. The site is wonderful because you can easily see the Lincoln Memorial, White House, and Capitol as well.

p.s. I saw a WHITE squirrel on the Delaware Ave. yet it is so small in the picture. New discoveries every instant.

Memorial Day Concert

2006-05-29T12:40:00.001-07:00

CONCERT outside the Capitol with CSI NY guy hosting

This year’s concert, features an all-star line-up of dignitaries, actors and musical artists including General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.) who will lead the nation in reminding us all of the true meaning of Memorial Day; as well as performances by country music sensation and multiple CMA and Grammy award-winning artist Lee Ann Womack; Academy Award-winning actress Dianne Wiest; distinguished actor Joe Mantegna, Gary Sinise, and Charles Durning, a U.S. Army veteran of World War II; country music sensations Big & Rich; and acclaimed opera singer Frederica Von Stade; in performance with the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of maestro Erich Kunzel. The U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff will play a special role in the concert along with the U.S. Army Chorus and Army Chorale, the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants, U.S. Navy Sea Chanters, as well as an Armed Forces Color Guard and color guard teams from branch of the armed services provided by the Military District of Washington. This year’s concert, featuring uplifting musical performances, documentary footage and dramatic readings, will pay a special tribute to the “citizen soldiers” of the National Guard and their families at home. The concert is free and is broadcast LIVE over national public television.

http://www.nps.gov/ncro/PublicAffairs/SummerintheCity.htm

Georgetown

2006-05-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday night I strolled around in Georgetown for a bit and it was very lovely. It is full of shops and restaurants... including a few of my favorite places such as Dean and Deluca ( i want to open this store one day), Urban Outfitters, and plenty others to chose from. Also there is a mall that is half underground full of shops such as anthropologie, ann taylor, etc. However, I soon realized that many of the restaurants around the waterside call for reservations. It was very difficult to get into a restaurant without one. Happy exploring.

Tasty Thai Food

2006-05-27T21:42:00.000-07:00

BANGKOK BISTRO
Georgetown
Contemporary THAI cuisine

3251 Prospect Street
Washington, DC 20007

TEL: 202.337.2424

Contrariety

2006-05-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

materials: plaster, paint

flower

2006-05-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

orientation

2006-04-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

So I just got back from the orientation and even though I am not supposed to have HUGE expectations for this summer, it's only natural. I'm really excited about the cultural diversity the city has to offer especially due to its surrounding history, politics, science, arts, etc. I'm looking forward to having an enriching summer. Good luck until then.