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Recommended Books:American-Made: The Enduring Legacy of the WPA, by Nick Taylor. I intended to quickly scan this book, slowing down only for passages about the Federal Art Project, part of the WPA of the 1930's. However, this was one history book I just couldn't scan! Taylor addresses the controversies surrounding the programs, the human and national benefits, the legacies, and he writes with a personal touch. The WPA is present in my life in a variety of ways--Dad was in the CCC's, and my library proudly displays several Federal Art Project paintings. Just down my road is a stone and bronze plaque: Apparently the WPA built our local fire station. A good book leaves me curious, and now I want to find out what else the WPA did in the San Gorgonio Pass, as well as continuing to search for a book about the Federal Art Project.
Living the Creative Life, ideas and inspiration from working artists, by Rice Freeman-Zachery. Not only is this book gorgeous to look at, but the author and artists that were interviewed discuss creativity in very interesting ways. The reader is encouraged to participate through thought-provoking exercises.
Recommended Movies:
Once (Irish). A refreshingly sweet love story about a street musician who falls in love with a very practical young woman. Memorable music by Glen Hansard and his Irish band "The Frames." Academy Award for Achievement in Music.
Rivers and Tides is the best movie about the making of art that I have ever seen. Scot artist Andy Goldsworthy discusses and demonstrates his ephemeral art made from elements of nature. Absolutely beautiful.
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