Observations of the week

I’m back. Took last Friday off because I was in the throes of the catering gig. I’m happy to report that all went great and although it was exhausting, it was gratifying to know they enjoyed every bite.

This week I’m focusing on a few cool observations as well as new discoveries.

First is what I encountered during one of my many trips to Dollar Tree, which is just minutes from my house. That’s where I buy the containers for the meals I cooked for the film crew and the ones I cook for the church. I went on a Sunday which is unusual for me, and that day I observed a group of lovely Haitian women shopping there in their Sunday best. They were obviously making a trip there after attending church. It warmed my heart to see them and they were dressed to the nines. Just lovely.

Then today, while having lunch I observed a colorful chicken walking past me. I thought nothing of it until I turned around and saw it perched on a table behind me. Definitely one of the most interesting things I saw today.

And on Wednesday, my final day delivering meals to the film crew, I discovered this amazing property in North Miami. It was where they were filming and I got to meet the owner and check out his amazing studio. You could call it a compound because it’s two properties with a beautiful, lush courtyard in the middle. Gorgeous shade trees throughout and lovely antique and eclectic furnishings adorn the interiors. Spike the owner told me he does a lot of photo shoots there as well and I can see why, he’s got a terrific eye for detail and beautiful furnishings. It’s called Star Dust Studio and I can’t wait to drive by again and admire this hidden gem.

Finally, last week I watched a YouTube presentation of MOCA’s Moving Images and the documentary film “Are You Down” about artist Michael Richards whose work is currently on display at the Museum. The film, made by Juan Matos a multi-disciplinary artist and Dennis Scholl, CEO and president of Oolite Arts and also a filmmaker and art collector.

The film opened my eyes to the story of Richards, an artist who had studio space in one of the Twin Towners in New York City and whose life was cut short when he perished in the attacks on 9/11. His gripping story and the ironic and heartbreaking body of his work that’s on display at MOCA in North Miami and how all this is revealed in the film broke my heart. It is truly a moving film. Keep your eyes out for the film it may very well be showcased at film festivals, that’s a virtual certainty. And for those of you who live in Miami, I encourage you to come to Downtown North Miami and take in the amazing exhibition of his work. Click here to read about the exhibit and the artist. The show runs through Oct. 10.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Until next Friday, be well, stay safe and healthy, wear a mask and be grateful, always be grateful.

Thanks for reading.