Arts and Culture in Seattle Wa | August 2021
See: Duane Linklater at The Frye Museum
Try: Tomo Restaurant
Watch: Sabaya Film
Arts and Culture in Seattle—July 2021
Arts and Culture in Seattle Wa | July 2021
Read moreThings to do in Seattle—June 2021
T R Y
A Sweet Pride Treat
The newest addition to the Flora restaurant family, The Flora Bakehouse serves up delicious baked goods, leavened breads, sweet and savory pastries, and rotating seasonal vegan and vegetarian breakfast bites. Throughout the month of June this LGBTQ-owned cafe is also serving rainbow cakes and cookies and 50% of the proceeds go towards Camp Ten Trees, a summer camp specifically for LGBTQ youth and youth from LGBTQ families. June 27 through 28 stop in for slices of the colorful cake. If cupcakes are more your style, Cupcake Royal’s “The Gay” vanilla confetti cake promises not to dissappoint, and Frankie & Joe’s Harvey Strawberry Milk has also made a deliciously colorful comeback. Those treats also support LGBTQ causes, but you can also learn more about how to support Seattle’s LBGTQ-owned bars and restaurants here.
V I E W:
Black Refractions at the Frye Museum
The latest exhibit at the Frye Museum, Black Refractions: Highlights from the Studio Museum in Harlem features a stunning array of works from more than 80 black artists that span time, genres, materials. The collection hails from the famed Studio Museum that has inspired countless artists and highlights the breadth of the museum’s works. Frye’s exhibition includes iconic pieces by artists such as Barkley Hendricks, Faith Ringgold, Lorna Simpson, Alma Thomas, and James VanDerZee, as well as Seattle’s own Jacob Lawrence and Noah Davis, among many others.
W A T C H:
A Drive-In Movie with a Meal from Stonehouse Cafe and Bar
This Rainier restaurant is offering up a roster of movies all summer long. This Friday, pop in for a roadside viewing of Black Panther. Other popcorn favorites like Men in Black, Jurassic Park, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens are just around the corner. Tickets are $15 per person with a minimum of $60 per car. Cars with fewer folk can use the leftover funds towards food and beverage purchases, and the Drive-In menu offers build-your-own burgers, fish & chips, chili, and other solid comfort-food fare.
Things to do in Seattle—May 2021
D I S C O V E R:
Doug Baldwin on Crosscut Live
On May 27 Crosscut Live, a virtual event series hosted by the local news publication, will bring in Doug Baldwin to discuss the American reckoning over race one year after the murder of George Floyd. After mass protests with calls to defund the police and examine our rampant systemic inequality, brands and organizations (like the NFL) jumped on the bandwagon to denounce racism, but what changes really came about?
Local reporter Monica Guzman will discuss this year in review with Baldwin, one of the most eloquent and forthright athletes from our region.
Baldwin, a Super Bowl Champion and 2-time Pro Bowler, is also known for establishing the Players Coalition, an NFL player-led organization that advocates for criminal justice and education reform. It’s worth noting that the coalition has been successful in helping pass all of the ballot initiatives it has supported into law. Tickets for what will surely be an impactful conversation are available here.
T R Y:
Smoked brisket enchiladas at Jackalope
After 17 years of ownership, the beloved proprietors of El Sombrero on Rainier Avenue in Columbia City have retired and a new tex-mex restaurant will soon be opening up in the location. In keeping with tradition, the newly-minted Jackalope will serve up a medley of down-home barbecue-inspired eats with a Mexican spin. Jackalope came about after the Columbia City resident Graham Ayers, general manager of Jack’s BBQ, decided he wanted to run a restaurant in the neighborhood.This Jack’s BBQ sibling restaurant is sure to have equally crave-worthy food. The previous El Sombrero space is currently undergoing a gut-renovation, and should be ready to open for business on Labor Day weekend. While the menu is still in progress, you can expect to revel in towering dishes of nachos, rich smoked brisket enchiladas, and perhaps a smoky Mezcal margarita or two. Stay tuned for more info here.
V I E W:
Some in-person art at SAM
It’s true; the lack of in-person arts and culture events during the pandemic hit us hard. But while films and virtual events managed to ease the lock-down doldrums, nothing could truly replace the feeling of visiting a museum in flesh and bone, and witnessing works of art up close. That’s why we are so relieved that the Seattle Art Museum has officially reopened to the public. With good measures in place, guests can reserve tickets for upcoming shows online and delight in art in person again. We highly encourage checking out the latest Jacob Lawrence show that is on display through May 23rd. If you aren’t quite ready to come out of confinement, make a note to visit the upcoming Monet show in June. That exhibition will feature dozens of the artist’s paintings of rocky cliffs and coastline in the seaside village of Etretat. Tickets are available here.
Things to do in Seattle—April 2021
D I S C O V E R:
A Nigerian Cyberpunk film at Siff
The annual Seattle International Film Festival is back after last year’s hiatus. Now for the first time ever, attendees can stream the three week festival from home and watch featured films on their own time.
On the top of our must-see list is the film This Is My Desire from Nigerian directors Arie and Chuko Esiri. Set in Lagos, the film follows two Nigerians who try to improve the lives of their families by attempting to find a better future in a foreign city. After plans collapse, they are confronted with realizations about how what they seek isn’t necessarily found elsewhere. A beautiful and gracefully shot film with striking notes of cyberpunk throughout, this cinematic experience is not to be missed.
Check out the entire SIFF film roster here, and don’t sleep on Seattle’s most extensive foreign film festival!
T R Y:
A Hawaiian/Japanese Gastropub in the International District
What used to be Kaname Izakaya in the International District is now Itsumono, a new gastropub fronted by chef Sean Arakaki. Chef Arakaki, a Hawaiin native, previously worked at Eden Hill before opening this delightful gastropub where he cooks up playfully indulgent and delicious pub fare. The menu features dishes like a teriyaki take on a traditional burger, steaming bowls of Saimin, curly fries dusted in nori, and a Karaage-Nashville hot chicken mash-up. Arakaki’s more gourmet background comes into focus via the ever-rotating line-up of daily specials that have more of a haute vibe (and are frequently highlighted on their instagram account).
Itsumono is Japanese for “regular,” and you will soon become one after trying this new International District gem. The restaurant is now open for take-out and some dine-in, and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 9:30pm.
L I S T E N:
To some poetry during National Poetry Month
April is national poetry month, which means it’s a great time to read, write, or listen to some poetry. All throughout the city, terrific poets will be hosting readings. We’re particularly excited about poets like Portland’s Kim Stafford who will read alongside Claudia Castro Luna, the Washington State Poet Laureate on April 21. Also on April 21, Tamiko Beyer will read from her book Last Days. A little later in the month you can catch award-winning poet Natalie Diaz, author of When My Brother Was an Aztec via the Seattle Arts & Lectures Series.
And if you’d like to let the springtime season inspire you to try your hand at some verse, check out Hugo House’s generative poetry workshop provided by resident Jeanine Walker, who will be sharing some poems and prompts on Wednesday April 14 at 6pm. RSVP for this free event here.
Things to do in Seattle—March 2021
D I S C O V E R:
The Hidden Worlds of Kazuo Ishiguro
World-renowned author Kazuo Ishiguro first received public acclaim in 1989 after the arrival of his book Remains of the Day, and later won the Nobel Prize upon publishing Never Let Me Go. The author has become known for his penetrating stories that go deep into the internal lives of his characters, sometimes revealing more about themselves by what they withhold than what they share. The Nobel Prize committee lauded Ishiguro as an author “who, in novels of great emotional force, has uncovered the abyss beneath our illusory sense of connection with the world.” In his latest novel Klara and the Sun Ishiguro ventures into new terrain (though somewhat reminiscent of Never Let Me Go with its futuristic setting). The book follows a young girl and her Artificial Friend Klara who is purchased from a store to keep her company. Join Ishiguro for a virtual and insightful talk on the release of his new book with Zen Buddhist priest Ruth Ozeki on March 13 at 2pm. Tickets are available here.
T R Y:
A Biodynamic Wine & Plate of Pasta via Taste Washington
Historically this rather huge Washington-based wine convention takes place in an arena over multiple days. This year, the event has gone virtual, but in lieu of in-person tastings, Taste Washington has drummed up dozens of promotions spanning the entire month of March. While this virtual iteration might not afford all the camaraderie that the annual event typically entails, the event organizers have gotten creative with their offerings. Peruse weekly menus complete with Washington wine pairings, and restaurant delivery options here. We’re particularly interested in the Italian varietal-focused wine tasting box available via Seattle restaurant Spinasse, featuring natural and biodynamic wines including a Nebbiolo from Swick Wines and a Wilridge Pinot Grigio-- the perfect wines to pair with some Spinasse favorites, like prosciutto di parma and marinated artichokes with honey mascarpone, hazelnuts and mint to start, and some wild boar cavatelli and tajarin al ragu as the main course.
R E A D:
An Arthouse Mag from Big Little News!
The sudden closure of the long-loved and oft-frequented Pike Place newsstand left a gaping hole in our hearts, and made it decidedly difficult to find cool magazines in Seattle. Big Little News is here to save the day, and offset Covid doldrums with their tantalizing array of art house and design-oriented magazines. In addition to periodicals and other things published on paper, the new Capitol Hill news shop will also offer treats, chocolate, bubbles, snacks, and even curated boxes filled with thematic local goods. Big Little News is located at 1102 E Pike, boasts an impressive collection of 250 different magazines, newspapers, and zines, and is open daily from 11am to 7pm.
Bring Your Kid to (Co)Work!
We know that WFH is getting old, but let’s all agree that School From Home must be even worse. Do you AND your kids need a place to escape the monotony, get a change of scenery and really focus?
The Cloud Room offers a safe and inspiring environment to get work done. Our workspace is equipped with operable windows, HEPA filters, socially-distanced circulation and plexiglass protective barriers between each desk.
For a limited time, when you sign up for a membership at the Cloud Room, your student (ages 13+) can receive a membership for 50% off. From just two visits per month, to unlimited access, we have a plan for every need.
Contact us at (206) 739-9004 or hello@cloudroomseattle.com for more information!
Things to do in Seattle—February 2021
D I S C O V E R:
Hugo House’s Literary Series Kicks Off, Feast or Famine
After a year of cataclysmic calamities, Hugo House is kicking off its annual spring literary series with an ode to the end of times: the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Over four Saturdays this spring, twelve writers and four musicians will address themes of conquest, war, famine, and death. This Saturday February 12th, the series starts off with a malnutritious event. Be it hunger of the heart, soul, mind or body, writers Ottessa Moshfegh, Leni Zumas, Laura Da’, and Sadie Dupuis of Sad13 will confront thematic notions of the Black Horse (representing famine) in live readings of their own literary works. Some darkly worded literary catharsis feels like the right antidote for these times. Individual tickets for the 6pm live stream performance on Friday February 12 are available here, and seasonal passes for all four sessions may also be purchased.
T R Y:
Delivery from Sushi Blossom and a Japanese Cuisine Webinar
Chinatown-International District’s Little Saigon has a new sushi joint, Sushi Blossom. This to-go-only restaurant prepares copious boxes of sushi rolls, nigiri, sashimi, and also offers donburi bowls, miso soup, edamame, seaweed and cucumber salads, and an inari trio. The fare is fresh, traditional in scope, and delivered without any additional fees. The house special roll is a California roll topped with seared salmon, smelt roe, and green onion. We’re not exactly sure who’s at the helm of this restaurant, and there aren’t any official restaurant reviews yet, but the Yelps are rightfully praiseworthy. We suggest springing for a couple of their Nigiri and Sashimi combos, and tuning in tonight for “How to Appreciate Sushi on a Deeper Level,” brought to you by Sushi Kappo Tamura’s Chef Taichi and co-presented with the Consulate General of Japan. During this free program, Chef Taichi will explain how to enjoy sushi with recommendations on the best fish to eat in each season, as well as other tips for enjoying this Japanese cuisine.
W A T C H:
France’s Official Oscar Submission, Two of Us
What’s Valentine’s Day weekend without a film about a torrid love tryst? In this debut feature film from Filippo Meneghetti, longtime secret lovers Nina and Madeleine’s affair is put to the test when something prohibits them from moving freely between their respective apartments. Mark Keizer said in his review for Variety that the film is “an affirmation of our universal desire for emotional intimacy and how the right connection can overcome all social and physical limitations. The fact that the relationship is between two lesbians well into their retirement years only makes the film even more quietly groundbreaking.” Don’t miss France’s official 2021 Oscar submission for Best International Film now available for streaming via SiFF’s Virtual Cinema and Tacoma’s The Grande Cinema, starting tomorrow Friday February 12.
Things to do in Seattle—January 2021
D I S C O V E R:
The Virtual Art of Skawennati
The University of Washington’s School of Art History + Art + Design is kicking off their 2021 Critical Issues Lecture Series this week with Montreal-based artist Skawenatti. Best known for virtual works that involve futuristic digital worlds, films, and avatars with an Indigenous twist, Skawenatti outfits her characters in traditional clothing such as ribbon shirts and helps others connect to their own heritage through virtual landscapes. “My work is about imagining Indigenous people in the future,” Skawenatti says. “We need to imagine the future of our nations, because we have been relegated to the past for far too long.”
Born in Kahnawà:ke Mohawk Territory, Skawennati holds a BFA from Concordia University in Montreal, where she currently resides. She is Co-Director of Aboriginal Territories in Cyberspace (AbTeC), a research-creation network.Her work has been widely presented in both group exhibitions and solo shows and is included in public and private collections, such as the National Gallery of Canada and the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal. She’s also the recent recipient of a 2020 Smithsonian Artist Research Fellowship. Other upcoming artists participating in the lecture series include Sung Tieu, Soil Thornton, and Eva Barto among many others. The UW Critical Issues lectures will take place every Friday afternoon, and are open to the public. Registration is available here.
T R Y:
A Banh Mi-Po Boy Hybrid at Communion
After four years in the making, chef Kristi Brown has opened the much-anticipated Communion, a Seattle Soul restaurant located in the Central District. A joint venture between Chef Brown and her son Damon Bomar, Communion is the pair's first brick & mortar restaurant. Brown’s creative cuisine blends traditional Southern food with Asian and Ethiopian influences to create unique dishes in her own signature style, like a Fried Oyster Mushroom Po’Mi, a Banh Mi-Po’ Boy mash-up, and the delicious crispy fried catfish sushi that’s served with a tangy watermelon hot sauce.
Communion is open for take-out, and also has a market that offers quick, grab & go options, including classics from TBGC! (Chef Brown’s catering company) like Black-Eyed Pea Hummus, Roasted Collard Green Dip, and seasonal sandwiches. Communion will reopen after the holidays on January 20, and will be open for takeout five days a week, from Wednesday through Sunday. Check out the deliciously inventive menu here.
A T T E N D:
An MLK Day Panel or March
In honor of Martin Luther King Day, United Way of King County is hosting a virtual panel discussion with Edgar Villanueva (Decolonizing Wealth), Gordon McHenry, Jr. (CEO of United Way King County), Zamzam Mohamed (CEO of Voices of Tomorrow), and Andrea Caupain Sanderson (CEO of Byrd Barr Place) on how philanthropy can help achieve greater racial equity on January 21 at 6pm. The event is free, and people who wish to attend may register in advance here.
United Way also encourages everyone to attend or stream the annual MLK Day March that starts at Garfield High School. This will be the 39th year that the Seattle MLK Jr. Organizing Coalition has led the march, and its dedication to promote the messages and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is as important as ever. The Seattle MLK, Jr. Organizing Coalition is an all-volunteer organization composed of dozens of grassroots, labor, business, communities of color, and progressive community organizations and volunteers from throughout the Puget Sound region. Annually, since 1982, these groups have come together to organize our community's largest tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The rally starts at 11am, and the march will begin at noon. Details on the MLK Jr. march are available here.
Things to do in Seattle—December 2020
W I T N E S S:
WITNESS: A Silent Reading Party via Zoom
When describing the allure of Seattle’s monthly Silent Reading Party, Christopher Frizzelle explained that “something underrated blossoms between strangers who aren't talking to each other.” It’s perhaps this blossoming, or maybe the fact that during lockdown we’re all desperate to meet strangers without the awkwardness of actually speaking to them, that have made virtual silent reading parties such a success. And successful they are; bringing in hundreds of attendees from around the world, they now take place every Wednesday (instead of just once a month) at 6pm PST via Zoom.
According to Frizzelle, attendees at the first Zoom silent-reading party included “famous actors, writers, composers, artists, families, teenagers doing their homework, people staring into space listening to the music because it was just so beautiful, cats, and even one household on Orcas Island that was eating dinner and decided to broadcast the reading party as their background music.” While we look forward to the day when we might be able to attend a silent reading party in person at The Sorrento Hotel (where they first began) and read in front of the roaring fire as Paul Matthew Moore plays the keys. For now, this is a nice reprieve from the winter pandemic doldrums. More details are available here.
W A T C H:
A Comedic Spin on A Charles Dickens Classic
The classic tale of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is one that has seen a myriad of renditions in popular culture. Whether or not you are a fan of the story, UP Improv’s refreshing take is definitely worth a watch. Members of the Seattle improv group take in random audience suggestions that dictate how they’ll play the tale. Major plot points, like where does Scrooge work, or what afflicts Tiny Tim are dictated by the whims of the audience. The results are often impressive, sometimes unwieldy, and always hilarious.
Up Improv has been performing A Christmas Carol since 1985, and this year they’ll be making it available for streaming at home for the very first time. If you are looking for a safe way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends, this is certainly a great option. Tickets and showtimes for A(n Improvised) Christmas Carol are available here. If Dickens really isn’t your thing, plenty of other holiday classics will be available to watch from the comfort of your own home. Check out local seasonal favorites like PNB’s The Nutcracker, or maybe The Burlesque Nutcracker. Seattle Center’s Annual Winterfest is also a hometown favorite with both in-person and virtual iterations.
V I S I T:
An Outdoor Winter Market at The London Plane
We miss dining at The London Plane, a light-filled restaurant/café with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto Pioneer Square, and make even the cloudiest of days feel somehow sunny. That said, The London Plane is still open for business. They’ve got a floral shop, bakery, coffee counter, expertly-curated wine selection, and tantalizing menu options available for take-out every day of the week. From now through December 25, they are also hosting an outdoor winter market every Saturday and Sunday with gifts from a variety of Seattle shops, as well as eggnog lattes, holiday cookies, and plenty of gorgeous seasonal wreaths and flower arrangements available for purchase. Don’t miss this festive occasion. Bring a friend, sip something hot & sweet in their “winter forest,” and try to remember that it’s the most wonderful time of the year, at least according to this guy.
Things to do in Seattle—November 2020
W I T N E S S:
Tamara Payne’s Lecture with Elliott Bay Book Company
On Sunday November 15, Tamara Payne, co-author of The Dead are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X will be giving a virtual lecture hosted by Elliott Bay Book Company. Author and award-winning investigative journalist Les Payne began drafting this biography more than thirty years ago, conducting extensive interviews with anyone who had ever known Malcolm X. In 2018, after Les Payne passed away, his daughter Tamara, who’d previously served as the lead researcher for the project, finished the book in her father’s absence. The resulting 650 page work, nominated for this year’s nonfiction National Book Award, manages to differentiate itself from the countless other biographies of Malcolm X with its excruciatingly detailed background research, and subsequent source materials that provide fascinating new insights into the life of the mythic man. And while other recent biographies, notably Manning Marable’s Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention, tend to portray him in perhaps a more sympathetic light, The Dead are Arising doesn’t hesitate to depict Malcolm X as complex and multifaceted, with his incisive, critical, and at-times vengeful spirit that forever shaped history. Payne’s talk is sure to shed light on how Malcolm X fought a fight that rages on today. Tickets for Payne’s lecture on Sunday, November 15 at 6pm are available here.
W A T C H:
An Arthouse Film at Tacoma Film Festival
Since its inception in 2006, the Tacoma Film Festival has garnered acclaim for bringing together an eclectic but expertly curated mix of avant-garde and more traditional films from independent filmmakers around the world. Hosted by The Grand Cinema, Tacoma’s small but mighty arthouse theater, this year’s edition will be online, but bigger than ever, with 120 films available for download now through Sunday Nov. 15. Gilda Sheppard's Since I Been Down is the festival centerpiece, a documentary that details the three-strikes law passed in Washington State in the early '90s that allowed persecutors to imprison youth for life. The film follows the path of a group of those prisoners who bravely pursue a course of healing that extends beyond prison walls. The full festival roster is available here, and tickets may be purchased individually for each screening.
T R Y:
A Winemaker Dinner at Home from Betz & The Butcher’s Table
Temperatures are dropping, and the allure of outdoor dining will soon be a distant memory. In case you are looking for something a little more novel than your standard to-go dinner fare, some Seattle restaurants are continuing to pivot in delightful ways. Enter The Butcher’s Table and their four-course virtual winemaker dinner, paired with distinctive wines from Betz Family Winery. Each course comes with an expertly paired wine, and a video of chef Morgan from The Butcher’s Table sharing tasting notes to go along with the wine pairings. You might almost think you were dining fireside at The Butcher’s Table with a sommelier serving wine straight from the cellar. Almost. The curated winemaker dinner, which comes with two appetizers, a main course, sides, wine, and dessert, serves two people and is available now through Nov. 21 for order here.
Things to do in Seattle—October 2020
W A T C H:
A Short Film at Seattle Latino Film Fest
We are in the final few days of the Seattle Latino Film Fest (SLFF), a 9-day streaming film festival that began on October 9 and culminates on Saturday October 17. More than 90 films in 23 categories make up this year’s impressive roster. Festival Director Jorge Enrique Gonzales Pacheco founded SLFF 12 years ago. As the first festival of its kind in the Northwest, it has attracted an impressive selection of actors, directors and producers while also fostering awareness, dialogue, and community both locally and internationally.
Individual film passes are available through the festival website, or a festival pass may be purchased, and in order to make the online viewing experience more interactive and immersive, all festival attendees have the opportunity to vote for their favorite films in four main categories. La Frontera and Malpaso are two feature films on our radar that still have tickets available for purchase. In case you can’t commit to a feature film, or want a little more variety, there’s also a nice array of short and documentary short films. Visit Seattle Latino Film Fest for more information and a complete listing of films available for streaming.
T R Y:
Southern Cuisine at Soul Shack on Da Hill
There’s a new soul food joint on the hill that shouldn’t be missed. Kyshaun Wilson worked at Olmstead as a line cook for several years before deciding to open his own neighboring spot, and bring some authentic southern flair to Capitol Hill. His new venture, situated at 324 East Broadway is located in a tiny bungalow (previously known as Dreamboyz Espresso) that might go unnoticed were it not for the open service window and aromas of roasting wings, boudin, and alligator. Yes, alligator. Chef Wilson pays homage to the food of the deep south with an authentic and concise menu.
In a recent interview Wilson explained, “Our mission with Soul Shack on da hill was to bring a Southern, diverse cultural-based food to Capitol Hill. We feel like there’s not a lot of Southern, soul food within this area.” Soul Shack is now open on Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM and Friday through Sunday 10 AM to 2 AM. Learn more at here.
L I S T E N:
The Coltrane Legacy at Earshot Jazz Festival
The world famous Earshot Jazz Festival begins this Friday October 16, and will continue on for three music-filled weeks, bringing in some of the best jazz acts in the nation. Don’t let the fact that this event is streaming fool you into believing that it’s not worth your time. As per usual, Earshot has managed to bring in a truly exciting mix of musicians, from innovative newbies to industry veterans.
This year the festival opens up with a bit of a theme: the legacy of the Coltranes. An excerpt from the Festival Director explains: “The iconic saxophonist, John Coltrane, came to represent a musical movement in the 1960s that opened jazz as a path toward spiritual transcendence in a time of great cultural unrest. That path continued with the pianist and harpist Alice Coltrane, and burns brightly to this day in Ravi Coltrane and the project he’ll bring to this year’s festival, with the harpist Brandee Younger and the quartet. The incredible young saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin carries that tradition further forward with her ensemble, named after a Coltrane composition, Pursuance . Their opening weekend concerts will set the tone and the spirit of this year’s festival.” As Earshot also points out, “The music (of John Coltrane) is a riveting fit for Benjamin’s talents: her saxophone tone is not dissimilar to John’s; her spirit not disconnected from Alice’s.” Check out the full festival roster here.
Things to do in Seattle—September 2020
W I T N E S S:
Claudia Rankine at Seattle Arts & Lectures
Author, playwright, poet, and artist Claudia Rankine, known for her book Citizen: An American Lyric, just published a new book. Just Us: An American Conversation reflects the artist and writer herself in this literary feat that combines a variety of mediums including “poetry, essay, visuals, scholarship, analysis, invective, and arguments into a passionate and persuasive case about many of the complex mechanics of race in this country,” according to Kirkus Review. On Friday September 25, Rankine will be speaking about her new book and performing readings for the Seattle Arts & Lectures series. Each ticket purchased includes a copy of her book. Tickets for the online lecture are available here.
T R Y:
Wide Eyed Wines at Chophouse Row
Owner Eli Dahlin and partners Ezra Wicks, Will Mason, and Salomon Navarro are behind Light Sleeper, the new “terroir bar” set to open in the old Bar Ferdinand space later this month. The menu will feature a selection of carefully curated food and wine options, with specific emphasis on sustainably grown, small-production wines from around the world. Their sister shop, Wide Eyed Wines has already opened in Chophouse Row and offers a fantastic selection of bottles, many of which will be available by the glass at Light Sleeper. While there, we recently picked up a bottle of naturally sparkling Semillon from Deux Punx. This effervescent, floral bomb paired beautifully with some spicy thai curry, but would also work well all on its own. Serve it very cold as a last toast to the waning days of summer.
W A T C H:
We Are Who We Are on HBO
Fans of Call Me By Your Name, a film that inspired a sort of cult-like adoration of its beautiful but tormented characters and dreamy sun-soaked Italian vistas, will be happy to know that Director Luca Guadagnino has just released a new series on HBO that debuted earlier this week. While certain stylistic elements harken back to Call Me By Your Name, his new series We Are Who We Are, also set in Italy but this time inside of an American army base, focuses more intently on the relationship that unfolds between two adolescents who are both experimenting with their identities and the fluidity of their evolving love interests. While there are still tender moments of dreaminess, the tone feels darker and at times, more confined. An interesting juxtaposition arises between the strict order of the army base, and the chaotic freedom that Italy provides just beyond its barbed walls.
Things to do in Seattle—August 2020
L I S T E N:
Artists in Residence at Doe Bay
Doe Bay Fest is perhaps the most charming variety of music festival. Even those who typically shudder at the words “music festival” have been known to attend this annual spectacle set on the wild and beautiful Orcas Island where musicians roam like minstrels and play ephemeral concerts for small crowds along dark beaches and underneath moonlit apple trees. This year, Doe Bay Fest has been cancelled, but the folks behind it have created an Artist Residency series to help both bolster musicians affected by Covid-19 and to quell the sadness brought on by the festival’s annulment. All throughout August and September, various musicians from the PNW and beyond will spend time at the resort and provide nightly serenades for guests (who must be within the limited on-site capacity). If you’re looking for an excuse to get out of the city, this might just be the perfect nudge. We’re hoping to check out Shaina Shepherd and Sera Cahoone.
T R Y:
New Restaurants Mezzanotte and Local Tide
It’s not an easy time to be a restauranter. The lucky ones have been able to pivot during the pandemic, but some of our favorite Seattle locations have temporarily or permanently shuttered. Despite the frequent lackluster news, we’re particularly excited about two new restaurants that have recently announced their arrival in Seattle: Mezzanotte and Local Tide.
Mezzanotte, a new restaurant from Marcus Lalario will be launching in his previous Bar Ciudad location. This Georgetown spot has a large patio, and will now be serving up a medley of northern Italian delicacies inspired by Lalario’s heritage including mouth-watering housemade pasta dishes like Tajarin and Tripoline. Local Tide is also on our radar. Previously a pop-up, this concept will be taking over space in the new mixed-use Cedar Speedster building in Fremont. Owner Victor Steinbrueck plans to serve up seafood-focused dishes like his sought-after seafood cake banh mis, and other tantalizing options like hand-cracked Dungeness crab rolls and rockfish sandwiches with housemade kewpie and pork belly.
L O O K:
Seattle’s Deconstructed Art Fair
In the wake of the canceled Seattle Art Fair, over fourty local galleries came together in early August to announce the launch of a newly-conceived Seattle Deconstructed Art Fair (SDAF). This DIY version of the Seattle Art Fair, which has drawn around 20k visitors on average each year, will be quite a departure from the annual event. Unlike last year’s art fair, which was held at Century Link stadium, this one will take place at all the participating galleries. Furthermore, because the cost to participate is basically nonexistent, many gallerists who struggled to join previous fairs, can take part in this grassroots iteration. We’re particularly interested in seeing the exhibits at Wa Na Wari gallery in the Central District, and those at the Greg Kucera Gallery. You can check out the complete list of participating galleries and what’s on display throughout the month of August here.
Things to do in Seattle—July 2020
E X P E R I E N C E:
KEXP’s REFILL Benefit Concert
This Sunday, July 19, KEXP is hosting REFILL, a live concert in partnership with Langston to help raise funds for the Seattle Arts Relief Fund (SARF). SARF is a Black-led community response effort that’s helping provide direct financial support to artists who have been affected by Covid-19. To learn more about how SARF is helping support artists during the pandemic, check out this video on their GoFundMe page.
REFILL’s musical line-up includes Brandon Marsallis & Talaya, Claudine Magbag, Perry Porter, Chong the Nomad, Ben Zaidi, Parisalexa, Sol, Left At London, Dave B, and Sango, and the event will be hosted by KEXP DJ Eva Walker. You can RSVP to REFILL on KEXP’s YouTube channel. This is just one of KEXP’s many digital musical events; check out their full roster of streaming events and home concerts here.
T R Y:
BBQ Nights at Cuff and Other Patio Dining
Cuff, one of Seattle’s most prominent LGBTQ+ nightclubs now has a walk-up window for take-out, and an open outdoor bar on their patio where they are also hosting nightly BBQ cookouts. Patio capacity is limited, masks are required (obviously), and groups must be under five people, but those patio lights and festive vibes are calling out to us even if we can’t dance the night away on the dance floor. The main patio bar opens at 5pm Wednesday through Friday, and the BBQ starts at 7pm sharp. Looking for a more chill vibe? The Infatuation has started compiling a complete list of Seattle restaurants with outdoor patio service.
W A T C H:
A Movie at the Drive-In
If you are experiencing couch fatigue from too much “Netflix-and-chill’-ing then a drive-in movie might be right up your alley. While most outdoor drive-in theatres in Washington are a short road trip away (like the Rodeo in Bremerton, the Skyline in Shelton, and the Wheel-In in Port Townsend), Marymoor Park has rolled out a roster of drive-in movie screenings. We’re particularly excited about Hidden Figures, which is playing next Tuesday, July 22. Future screenings for the month of July include School of Rock (July 23), Knives Out (July 29), and Shrek (July 30). Tickets for these showings are mostly sold out, but August films will be released later this month, so stay tuned! To learn more about all your drive-in options, check out this recap from The Stranger.
Photo: courtesy of The Stranger article linked above.
The Cloud Room’s In-Quarantine Picks
E X P E R I E N C E:
Saturday Jazz with Earshot & Town Hall
Earshot Jazz is a Seattle-based arts organization that is dedicated to supporting the local jazz community through a series of high-profile concerts, festivals, educational events, and a music magazine that’s now been in print for 35 years. To further support musicians during this time, Earshot has partnered with Town Hall Seattle to offer weekly Saturday night livestream concerts. This weekend, head to www.earshotjazz.com to watch the Folks Project concert, streaming live at 7:30pm on Saturday May 16. This local line-up will feature pianist Darrius Willrich, drummer D’Vonne Lewis, and bassist Evan Flory-Barnes, who are sure to serve up an entertaining and eclectic night of jazz and R&B. Future livestream performances will include The Kareem Kandi Quartet, and the SRJO smalltet.
W I T N E S S:
On the Boards T.V.
On the Boards, a Seattle institution, has traditionally been the theater de rigueur for some of the city’s most cutting edge dramatic performances. With lockdown in full effect, On the Boards has launched an impressive arsenal of films and artistic performances available for direct download. To date, more than 60 works have been catalogued and made available through their incredibly well organized OntheBoards.tv. This expansive digital platform provides access to works by leading voices from the field of contemporary performance, some of which will never be performed again.
We suggest renting Seattle-native Ahamefule Oluo’s stunning “Now I’m Fine” production, which was filmed live at The Moore. His experimental musical memoir transforms personal stories about holding it together into distinct vignettes, all accompanied all by a smashing 17-piece orchestra. “Now I’m Fine” received rave reviews by the NYT after its opening at The Public theater in New York City. It also served as inspiration for Oluo’s forthcoming film “Thin Skin” that’s been in development with screenwriter Lindy West and director Charles Mudede, and is set for release later this year.
R E A D:
Always Home
While many book launches have been postponed or canceled this spring, one book that did launch, Always Home by Fanny Singer, seems eerily appropriate for this time. Singer wrote this beautiful memoir-cookbook long before anyone had any idea that all of us would ...always be home. The book paints an intimate portrait of Singer and her relationship with her Mother, Alice Waters, the famous chef and mastermind behind Chez Panisse who is credited with popularizing the now nearly ubiquitous “farm-to-table” movement back in the 70’s.
Not only is the title prescient, but the content also seems a perfect reprieve from the monotony of sheltering in place, with whimsical, sometimes funny, and endearing stories of a childhood moored by a mother and their mutual love of food. The recipes are likewise a tantalizing diversion, and now seems a perfect time to try these familial dishes framed by heartwarming stories.
CLOUD ROOM PRESENTS: A VIRTUAL CONVERSATION WITH ON THE BOARDS
Join Artistic Director Rachel Cook for an introduction to and evolution of 18/19 Artists-in-Residence Tim Smith-Stewart and Jeffrey Azevedo's project Salvage Rituals hosted by The Cloud Room and On the Boards [May 6, 6:30PM PST].
This event is free with pre-registration! RSVP HERE and you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Tim Smith-Stewart is a queer interdisciplinary artist who uses text as his primary medium for creating installations and performances. He was recently a resident artist in the spring 2018 PICA Creative Exchange Lab cohort.
Jeffrey Azevedo is a Seattle-based theater artist and the managing director of Washington Ensemble Theatre. As an actor Azevedo has performed in the Washington Ensemble Theatre’s productions of Cherdonna’s Doll’s House, The Things Are Against Us, and Teh Internet is Serious Business. He holds degrees in Theater Arts and Electrical Engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
In 2017, Smith-Stewart and Azevedo premiered Awaiting Oblivion... at On the Boards and The Perpetual Insurrection of Claude Cahun at the Henry Art Gallery. They have also presented performances at On the Boards' NW New Works Festival, Risk/Reward (Portland), Velocity Dance Center, and Fresh Oysters Performance Research (Minneapolis), as well as installations at New Tomorrow, Erasure (curated by Lion’s Main Art Collective), and the Lofi Arts Festival. From 2010-2013 they co-created The Eternal Glow Project—a four part performance/installation which premiered work at The Seattle Center Next50, OtB's NW New Works Festival, and the Lofi Arts Festival.
ABOUT SALVAGE RITUALS
Salvage Rituals invites the audience into the first iteration of an ongoing community practice and dance party. Born from a private ritual to mourn friends very much alive but lost to unsupported neurodivergence and addiction, Salvage Rituals is interested in the potential of communal ritual intersecting with DIY engineering as an embodied practice of mutualism/mutual aid. A rigorous movement score takes place on a hexagonal platform constructed of piezoelectric tiles, which transforms the mechanical stress from the performers' bodies into electrical current, actively powering the stage lights.
Performers/collaborators include Alyza DelPan-Monley, Sophie Franco, Alice Gosti, Alexandra Harding, Erin McCarthy, Stefan Richmond, Charles Smith-Stewart, and Paul Smith-Stewart. The performance culminates in a dance party featuring DJ Alice.
ABOUT ON THE BOARDS
As one of the leading organizations of their size and focus in the United States, On the Boards produces unique performance projects by leading artists and creates one-of-a-kind experiences for our audiences.
On the Boards make significant investments in the performing arts community to help increase the quality of new work created. On the Boards contributes to the vitality of arts and culture in our region by helping launch and continue the careers of some of its most promising artists while growing audiences for experimental performance.
The Cloud Room Quarantunes
Here's a look at some of our most played tracks of the past year!
SING-A-LONG-A-LONE LYRICS
Led by Shenandoah Davis
STAND BY ME
When the night has come
And the land is dark
And the moon is the only light we'll see
No, I won't be afraid
Oh, I won't be afraid
Just as long as you stand
Stand by me
So darlin', darlin'
Stand by me, oh, stand by me
Oh, stand, stand by me
Stand by me
If the sky that we look upon
Should tumble and fall
Or the mountain should crumble to the sea
I won't cry, I won't cry
No, I won't shed a tear
Just as long as you stand
Stand by me
And darlin', darlin'
Stand by me, oh, stand by me
Oh, stand now, stand by me
Stand by me
Darlin', darlin'
Stand by me, oh, stand by me
Oh, stand now, stand by me
Stand by me
Whenever you're in trouble, won't you stand by me?
Oh, stand by me
Won't you stand now?
Oh, stand, stand by me
THE RAINBOW CONNECTION
Why are there so many
Songs about rainbows
And what's on the other side
Rainbows are visions
They're only illusions
And rainbows have nothing to hide
So we've been told and some chose to
Believe it
But I know they're wrong wait and see
Someday we'll find it
The Rainbow Connection
The lovers, the dreamers and me
Who said that every wish
Would be heard and answered
When wished on the morning star
Somebody thought of that
And someone believed it
And look what it's done so far
What's so amazing
That keeps us star gazing
What so we think we might see
Someday we'll find it
That Rainbow Connection
The lovers the dreamers and me
All of us under its spell
You know that it’s probably magic
Have you been fast asleep
And have you heard voices,
I've heard them calling my name,
Is this the sweet sound that calls
The young sailors,
The voice might be one and the same.
I've heard it too many times to ignore it
It's something that i'm supposed to be,
Someday we'll find it
The rainbow connection...
The lovers, the dreamers and me
La lala la lala la la la lala la la la
LET IT BE
When I find myself in times of trouble
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
And in my hour of darkness
She is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
And when the broken hearted people
Living in the world agree,
There will be an answer, let it be.
For though they may be parted there is
Still a chance that they will see
There will be an answer, let it be
Let it be, let it be. Yeah
There will be an answer, let it be.
And when the night is cloudy,
There is still a light that shines on me,
Shine on until tomorrow, let it be.
I wake up to the sound of music
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be,
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
SO HAPPY TOGETHER
Imagine me and you, I do
I think about you day and night, it's only right
To think about the girl you love and hold her tight
So happy together
If I should call you up, invest a dime
And you say you belong to me and ease my mind
Imagine how the world could be, so very fine
So happy together
I can't see me lovin' nobody but you
For all my life
When you're with me, baby the skies'll be blue
For all my life
Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it had to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together
I can't see me lovin' nobody but you
For all my life
When you're with me, baby the skies'll be blue
For all my life
Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it had to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together
Ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba
Ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba
Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it had to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together
So happy together
How is the weather
So happy together
We're happy together
So happy together
Happy together
So happy together
So happy together (ba-ba-ba-ba ba-ba-ba-ba)
I WILL SURVIVE
At first I was afraid, I was petrified
Kept thinking I could never live without you by my side
But then I spent so many nights thinking how you did me wrong
And I grew strong
And I learned how to get along
And so you're back
From outer space
I just walked in to find you here with that sad look upon your face
I should have changed that stupid lock, I should have made you leave your key
If I'd known for just one second you'd be back to bother me
Go on now, go, walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Do you think I'd crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die?
Oh no, not I, I will survive
Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live
And I've got all my love to give and I'll survive
I will survive, hey, hey
It took all the strength I had not to fall apart
Kept trying hard to mend the pieces of my broken heart
And I spent oh-so many nights just feeling sorry for myself
I used to cry
But now I hold my head up high and you see me
Somebody new
I'm not that chained-up little person and still in love with you
And so you felt like dropping in and just expect me to be free
Well, now I'm saving all my lovin' for someone who's loving me
Go on now, go, walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to break me with goodbye
Do you think I'd crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die?
Oh no, not I, I will survive
Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live
And I've got all my love to give and I'll survive
I will survive
Oh
Go on now, go, walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to break me with goodbye
Do you think I'd crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die?
Oh no, not I, I will survive
Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live
And I've got all my love to give and I'll survive
I will survive
I will survive
LANDSLIDE
I took my love, I took it down
Climbed a mountain and I turned around
And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills
'Til the landslide brought me down
Oh, mirror in the sky, what is love?
Can the child within my heart rise above?
Can I sail through the changin' ocean tides?
Can I handle the seasons of my life?
Mmm
Well, I've been 'fraid of changin'
'Cause I've built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I'm gettin' older, too
Well, I've been 'fraid of changin'
'Cause I've built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I'm gettin' older, too
I'm gettin' older, too
Ah, take my love, take it down
Oh, climb a mountain and turn around
And if you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well, the landslide will bring it down
And if you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well, the landslide will bring it down
Oh, the landslide will bring it down
YOUR SONG
It's a little bit funny, this feelin' inside
I'm not one of those who can easily hide
I don't have much money, but boy, if I did
I'd buy a big house where we both could live
If I was a sculptor, but then again, no
Or a man who makes potions in a travelin' show
Oh, I know it's not much, but it's the best I can do
My gift is my song and this one's for you
And you can tell everybody this is your song
It may be quite simple but now that it's done
I hope you don't mind
I hope you don't mind
That I put down in words
How wonderful life is while you're in the world
I sat on the roof and kicked off the moss
Well, a few of the verses, well, they've got me quite cross
But the sun's been quite kind while I wrote this song
It's for people like you that keep it turned on
So excuse me forgettin', but these things I do
You see, I've forgotten if they're green or they're blue
Anyway, the thing is, what I really mean
Yours are the sweetest eyes I've ever seen
And you can tell everybody this is your song
It may be quite simple but now that it's done
I hope you don't mind
I hope you don't mind
That I put down in words
How wonderful life is while you're in the world
I hope you don't mind
I hope you don't mind
That I put down in words
How wonderful life is while you're in the world
WE ARE NEVER GETTING BACK TOGETHER
I remember when we broke up, the first time
Saying this is it I've had enough
Because like we hadn't seen each other in a month
When you said you needed space, what?
Then you come around again and say
Baby I miss you and I swear I'm gonna change
Trust me
Remember how that lasted for a day?
I say I hate you, we break up, you call me, I love you
You called it off again last night
But this time I'm telling you
I'm telling you,
We are never ever ever getting back together
We are never ever ever getting back together
You go talk to your friends talk to my friends talk to me
But we are never ever ever ever getting back together
Like ever
I'm really gonna miss you picking fights
And me falling for a screaming that I'm right
And you hide away
And find your piece of mind with some indie record
That's much cooler than mine
You called me up again tonight
But this time, I'm telling you, I'm telling you
We are never ever ever getting back together
We are never ever ever getting back together
You go talk to your friends talk to my friends talk to me
But we are never ever ever ever getting back together
I used to think that we were forever, ever
And I used to say never say never
We are never ever ever getting back together
We are never ever ever getting back together
You go talk to your friends talk to my friends talk to me
But we are never ever ever ever getting back together
We are never ever ever getting back together
We are never ever ever getting back together
You go talk to your friends talk to my friends talk to me
But we are never ever ever ever getting back together
TIME AFTER TIME
Lying in my bed, I hear the clock tick and think of you
Caught up in circles
Confusion is nothing new
Flashback, warm nights
Almost left behind
Suitcase of memories
Time after
Sometimes you picture me
I'm walking too far ahead
You're calling to me, I can't hear
What you've said
Then you say, "go slow"
And I fall behind
The second hand unwinds
If you're lost you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I'll be waiting
Time after time
If you're lost, you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I will be waiting
Time after time
After my picture fades and darkness has
Turned to gray
Watching through windows
You're wondering if I'm okay
Secrets stolen from deep inside (deep inside)
And the drum beats out of time
If you're lost you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall I will catch you, I'll be waiting
Time after time
If you're lost, you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I will be waiting
Time after time
Time after time
I've got a suitcase of memories that I almost left behind
Time after time
Time, time, time
But you say to go slow but I fall behind
Time after time after time (after time, oh)
SPACE ODDITY
Ground Control to Major Tom
Ground Control to Major Tom
Take your protein pills and put your helmet on
Ground Control to Major Tom (ten, nine, eight, seven, six)
Commencing countdown, engines on (five, four, three)
Check ignition and may God's love be with you (two, one, liftoff)
This is Ground Control to Major Tom
You've really made the grade
And the papers want to know whose shirts you wear
Now it's time to leave the capsule if you dare
"This is Major Tom to Ground Control
I'm stepping through the door
And I'm floating in a most peculiar way
And the stars look very different today
For here
Am I sitting in a tin can
Far above the world
Planet Earth is blue
And there's nothing I can do
Though I'm past one hundred thousand miles
I'm feeling very still
And I think my spaceship knows which way to go
Tell my wife I love her very much she knows
Ground Control to Major Tom
Your circuit's dead, there's something wrong
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you "Here am I floating 'round my tin can
Far above the moon
Planet Earth is blue
And there's nothing I can do"
UMBRELLA
You have my heart
And we'll never be worlds apart
Maybe in magazines
But you'll still be my star
Baby, 'cause in the dark
You can't see shiny cars
And that's when you need me there
With you, I'll always share
Because
When the sun shine, we shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be your friend
Took an oath, I'ma stick it out to the end
Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we'll still have each other
You can stand under my umbrella
You can stand under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh-eh
These fancy things
Will never come in between
You're part of my entity
Here for infinity
When the war has took its part
When the world has dealt its cards
If the hand is hard
Together we'll mend your heart
Because
When the sun shine, we shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be your friend
Took an oath, I'ma stick it out to the end
Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we'll still have each other
You can stand under my umbrella
You can stand under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh-eh
You can run into my arms
It's okay, don't be alarmed
Come into me
There's no distance in between our love
So gon' and let the rain pour
I'll be all you need and more
Because
When the sun shine, we shine together
Told you I'll be here forever
Said I'll always be your friend
Took an oath, I'ma stick it out to the end
Now that it's raining more than ever
Know that we'll still have each other
You can stand under my umbrella
You can stand under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh
Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh-eh
It's rainin', rainin'
Ooh, baby, it's rainin', rainin'
Baby, come here to me
Come into me
It's rainin', rainin'
Ooh, baby, it's rainin', rainin'
You can always come into me
Come into me
The Cloud Room’s Curatorial Picks
L O O K:
First Thursday from Your Sofa
As we all begin to adapt to a new reality under Covid-19 lockdown, many little impulses or traditions must be denied or redirected. One of those beloved traditions, to take in new art at local galleries at the start of each month -- as so many Seattleites often do on ‘First Thursdays’-- would be yet another one of those canceled occasions, were it not for two arts enthusiasts who decided to create a virtual First Thursday experience for us to enjoy in our own homes. While Seattle galleries have closed their doors during the Covid lockdown, Lauren Gallow, Gray Magazine’s executive editor, teamed up with Gabriel Stromberg, creative director at Civilization to document a virtual tour of 25 local art exhibits.
They’ve titled the ephemeral virtual art walk “By The Hour,” and filmed it live last Thursday. In case you find yourself lusting after some artistic inspiration, you can watch the entire 90 minute segment here. Tune in to learn more about so many artists and the important work they’ve done that is now on display in Seattle’s shuttered galleries. Lauren and Gabriel would like to encourage people to continue to think and talk about art during this time, even though we might not be able to witness it in person. “By The Hour is a way for people to show up for the arts, without leaving their homes. By tuning in to our live broadcast, people can learn about the artists, curators, and galleries who are the cultural lifeblood of our community,” said Gallow. “I love nothing more than sharing stories about art, so producing and hosting By The Hour is my dream come true! I can't wait to see what we do next.”
One favorite is the group show at SOIL gallery titled “Conscious Collaboration with Spirit” curated by Leah Nyugen. This show features seven artists and focuses on artists who use a collaboration with spirit as part of their work. Nyugen wants to bring awareness and conversation to a topic that is typically ignored or avoided by the art world. Brain Flows by Nola Avienne is also on display in the back gallery space. Avienne’s work features drawings done in acrylic ink on rag vellum of dendritic brain structures inspired by MRI’s. As Gallow points out, it’s an interesting juxtaposition of both the spiritual and the scientific in one gallery. We’re also crushing on Jennifer Ament’s prints over at Zinc Gallery, and the Fruitsuper show. Check out the instagram handle @_by_the_hour_ for updates in real time and continued posts of artists’ works, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #bythehour as you share and discuss art with your friends online.
Photo: Artwork entitled “Here We Are Now, Entertain Us” by Jennifer Ament
E X P E R I E N C E:
Yoga at Sanctuary or Breathwork with Josephine Edmondson
Now more than ever, our collective anxiety may be heightened as we think about the members of our society who are out on the front lines, and our loved ones who are sick or struggling. It is a critical time to remember to breathe and to move our bodies (if we are able to do so). An array of workout videos and streaming classes are available online to help with this. We’d like to recommend a new-ish studio based in Queen Anne called Sanctuary. Sanctuary offers virtual yoga classes in a variety of settings. They were one of the first studios to offer free classes online, particularly important for members of the community who are struggling to find work right now.
If you are looking for an intense psychological cleansing in addition to the more physical variety, Josephine Edmondson has been offering virtual breathwork classes that are both cathartic and rejuvenating. She plays eclectic music throughout the forty minutes of intense breathing, and her calming voice can help anyone face down the eye of the storm in these turbulent times. She also offers reduced rates or free classes for those who are in need. More information is available on her website, and her next class is scheduled for April 11 from 1 to 2:30pm.
Photo: Sanctuary — Seattle, WA
T A S T E:
Dinner and a Movie via Golas Kitchen
Long gone are Saturdays and Sundays packed full of parties and brunch dates. That said, putting some planning together for your upcoming weekend isn’t impossible (it just might be in the form of local take-out and the House Party app), but Golas Kitchen just made booking a date night in the time of Covid-19 a little easier and a lot more fun with their curated “Dinner & A Movie” series. Golas Kitchen is a catering company owned by husband and wife team Michal Gola and Osiris Navarro. Their Czech and Filipino backgrounds enhance their colorfully creative cuisine and events. Like most other local food businesses, they’ve had to pivot their business model and are now offering prix-fixe menus available for curbside pickup, available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday “until this is done,” (according to their recent Instagram post).
This coming weekend their menu will be inspired by the film “Good Fellas,” available on Netflix, and will feature baked ziti, pork cutlets in a sage and mushroom sauce, garlicky green beans, and cannoli. Future food and film pairings include suggested home-screenings of “Joy Luck Club,” paired with congee and housemade dumplings, “Julie and Julia” with a Boeuf Bourguignon and potato galette and chocolate mousse for dessert, and for the film “Chef,” they’re pairing Mojo Marinated Pork Shoulder with citrus salsa, arroz verde & beans, and Maduros, which are sweet plantains. The menus are $75 for three courses, and $15 for a dessert portioned for two people. You can order online, or contact info@golaskitchen.com for more information. That’s amore!