100% Mynd Use

I was recently introduced to the term "navel-gazing."  I can't remember if someone said it in conversation or if I read it somewhere or what.  But now that I've heard it, I'm starting to see it everywhere, like this Washingtonian review of Uncle Vanya, which says that the production's "comically morose characters make our 21st century navel-gazing look positively paltry in comparison."  I realize I'm late on the uptake here.

At any rate, I've been thinking about navel-gazing and how of all the problems that I do suffer from and with, I think that self-absorbed complacency (OED) isn't at the top of the list as it seems to be for many other Americans.  This term made me appreciate local DC artist B.K. Adams' mantra "100% mynd use" all the more.

My friends introduced me to B.K. Adams after learning about him because he has a studio in the basement of their condo building.  We attended the opening of his exhibit at the Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum this Sunday.  It is a really delightful exhibit!  It is definitely worth a visit.

His pieces explore several themes -- like journey of life, cycles, and a lot of funny puns -- in a variety of ways -- sculpture, canvasses, video, and photography.  I really enjoyed the show; my favorite piece was entitled "family reunion." The sculpture was made up of broken chairs, wine glasses, and bicycle tires among other things.  And yet, the tone was light and the colors were bright, so it didn't feel like a condemnation of the chaos of family so much as an observation of the chaos.  


The exhibit was a wonderful journey through the mind of someone who the Smithsonian says "demands both himself and everyone else to think and be creative."  I really appreciate and respect his demand.  I suppose it is something I strive for myself and look for in others.  


So, stop navel-gazing and get your ass to a part of the city that most of us don't venture into very often!  Support neighborhood business and get coffee or lunch when you visit at Big Chair Coffee and Grill.