The Penguin Lessons

Click image above for a conversation between actor Steve Coogan, Jonathan Pryce, director Peter Cattaneo and author Tom Michell,

The Penguin Lessons is a heartwarming and inspiring movie that I absolutely loved!

Based on an autobiography by Englishman Tom Michell, it is a true story that functions on many levels. Not only is it a heartfelt tale about the relationship between a man and a penguin, it is also laced with humor while exploring the themes of education and teaching in shaping political and moral values. It takes place in the setting of an elite private school in 1976 Argentina, just as the military dictatorship is taking hold in that South American country.

The Penguin Lessons has particular relevance today given the political situation in the United States, forcing us to face our personal and moral responsibilities, as the main character did, in light of the rise of fascism in Argentina and the U.S.

Keith Lissner: Art is an Illusion

Click image for the Art Tour of the Metropolitan Museum in NYC

Click image for the Art Tour of the Louvre in Paris

Keith Lissner is a real creative talent! As a designer, he has worn many hats in the fashion industry and his creative spirit shines through in many other ways as well. These two imaginative videos illustrate his love of art, his sense of humor and his pure creative playfulness and joy. Click theses links to take a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Louvre in Paris, witnessing the art there like you have not seen before.

Lissner has taken to heart Edgar Degas' quote, “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” And at the same time, he gives a nod to Marcel Duchamp's thought "all art is an illusion."

Thanks to my friend Barb Murphy, a real creative talent herself, for bringing these to my attention.

Don't Take It Personally

A friend shared this quote with me last week that has something to say about human relationships of all types.  It falls in the category of "not taking things personally" and helps manage "hurt" and "expectation" when one is not met.  Hope the sentiment of this quote speaks to you too...

No matter how open, peaceful or loving you are, others can only connect with you at the depth they've reached within themselves.  As Carl Jung once said: "Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves."  People's capacity to meet you with understanding, compassion and vulnerability is limited by the inner work they've done on their own soul.  You can offer all the light and love in the world, but if someone hasn't ventured into their own shadows they will only be able to meet you on the surface.  This is a profound truth about human relationships, whether it be about friendship, romance, or just our everyday interactions.  The depth of connection is not just about what you bring but about how deeply the other person has explored their own heart.  It is the essence of clarity; understanding that, while you may strive for connection, others can only offer what they found in themselves.  Accepting this can bring peace, for you realize that everyone's journey is their own and sometimes they simply haven't gone deep enough to meet you where you stand."

Silkscreen of the Week

Pam Smilow Mandala Series: Red Bird silkscreen and mixed media on paper 30” x 22” $1500 Giclee Print: $350

Charity of the Week:
American Civil Liberties Union

About The Author

New York City based contemporary artist, Pam Smilow, began writing the creative lifestyle blog “things we love” in an effort to foster a sense of community during times of isolation and reflection. To read more about her and her art, visit her website and check out the essay written by Frank Matheis entitled The Sophisticated Innocence of Pam Smilow.