Seven Plus Art

Today's post consists of two book recommendations and my last night's experiences of over seven hours on art. I attended two poetry readings, an art show and reception, and viewed a film which satisfied my geeky fascination with old world mystical charm and meets science and futuristic capabilities.

First, I attended a poetry reading and family reunion of sorts. Poet and educator Daniel Garcia, a.k.a. The Poet Mariachi delivered the most entertaining reading and signing at Heights Books Libros. This was Daniel's first reading in his hometown. He was born in Houston, but left for the valley when he was a young child. He and his wife now teach in Mission, TX. How fortunate are his students! Daniel's poetry is best when read aloud by him; for it is a celebration of oral language and a commentary on words. His delivery makes one picture him on a stage doing stand up. However, the way Daniel reads words is not just fun for the sake of being funny. The meaning in his collection of poetry and drama in You Know What I'm Sayin'? is deep. No matter what culture or class one comes from, closing ones eyes and listening to Daniel's written words weave a rich and vivid tapestry when touched by his voice. His colorful stories transport one to a universal and familiar comfort of one's own home and mores of growing up and coming of age.


I also recommend Black Wings by fellow Longhorn and Houstonian Sehba SawarSehba is also founding director of Voices Breaking Boundaries.

After leaving the Heights, I attended a nice gathering at Sehba's home. The event was to honor social justice workers Houstonian Daniel Bustamante and Sehba's father, Dr. Mohammad Sewar, a Pakistani university professor who led student uprisings in the '50s. The gathering was also a celebration of Houston's East End, a neighborhood rich from the diverse gifts of various Hispanic cultures.

VBB's Living Room Art also included a greeting from activist and philanthropist Sissy Farenthold, alter art from friend Michelle Barnes, and poetry by friends Donna Garrett and Jacsun Shah. Dr. Shah is also a founder of VBB.

You must have noticed that some of my past blogs are leaning to the steampunk art of existence. When I arrived home, I read a few pages of Know What I'm Sayin' ? before retiring with the perfect SP movie; League of Extradonary Gentlemen.