It’s been a long 15 months since many of us headed indoors for pandemic season. Now that the CDC has spurred the opening of outdoors and indoors for Summer 2021, I see a lot of vaxxed (and waxed) excitement.
Now, me, I’ve always been a germaphobe, so I am one of those people who’s a little antsy about stepping outside into what was once “normal” activities. Thus, right now, if I’m outside and there’s not a whole lot of folks around, I’m barefaced, but put me indoors or in a crowd, I’m masked. Maybe I’m having a vaxxed and trying to relax summer?
Anyhoo, I’ve made a list of what I want to do and see this summer. No big travel plans on my radar yet, but I do want to explore my own DMV region. Part 1 of this started last week with a trip to Glenstone. I was drawn to the Faith Ringgold exhibit, but stayed to explore the campus and its other galleries, sculpture and nature trails for five or six hours. It was a lovely dive into creative bliss. The Ringgold exhibit showcased Ms. Ringgold’s work from the last several decades, and it was amazing to see how she played with different media and themes to document a wide scope of Black life. I was truly inspired by the stories written onto her quilts. It’s the vernacular of my life, and it’s great to see it amplified.
Glenstone’s art, sculpture and trails will bring me back for additional visits. Several pieces stoked my imagination — not just from a creative standpoint, but also appreciation of what artists can do when they are supported. Glenstone sprung from the vision and financing of Emily & Mitch Rales, one of the wealthiest families in Maryland. In some instances, like with the “Collapse” steel beam sculpture, the couple allowed artists to finally complete visions they had dreamed of in the 1960s.
In addition to Glenstone, I also ventured out to Eastern Market over the weekend. I had a specific earring need — silver hoops — and wanted to see what kind of art would be available. I don’t have funds like the Rales, but I am looking to bring some color to my condo. I found the earrings quickly and bought two pair as well as things I didn’t know I needed like a soap loofah and eco soy candle. Already getting joy from all of these. I also spoke with some artisans and will likely be back to pick up some Ugandan wall plates once I know how I’d like to place them. Figure I need a plan rather than just a desire to buy.
Now that I’ve started my summer exploration, I’m excited about other things on my list including museums, parks and bike trails, drive in and lawn movies, wine tours, farmers markets, concerts, and long luxurious brunches and dinners. I’m still fancy after all.