My Week: All Sorts of “Pics” in the Bronx, Black Betty, Pool Parties & The Ting Tings!
– Naima, lead singer of Chewing Pics |
Stop Bitching that the Bronx is Far
This past Thursday evening I left work and headed to my friend Bashira’s exhibition at the Bruckner Gallery in the Bronx.
Yes, the Bronx is far. Everyone always talks about how far away it is and how there is nothing to do there. I was also one of those people, truth be told. One time I went to the Bronx in 2004, got lost, got traumatized and then never went back.
But I like to prove myself wrong now and again and if I let distance keep me from fun I would still be in California complaining that I had nothing to do.
I am really glad I went to this event because I learned more about my friend and experienced great art and music (for free). Also, the 6 train is really not as serious as it used to be, just bring a book. You’ll be fine.
About Departure
Bashira’s art was part of a group show of five photographers who met 5 years ago at The Point, a community arts organization in Hunts Point. She was part of the Jocelyne Benzakin Fellowship program at the International Center for Photography (ICP), where she had access to respected photojournalists, editors and agents. Bashira is a talented photographer who enjoys documenting the world around her, musicians, communities and friends. She is a co-founder of the NYC BRiDGE Project, which teaches young people in neighborhoods where photography is not celebrated and photographic education is limited.
Chewing Pics = Inspiration
Bashira introduced me to Chewing Pics, an experimental rock band that she loves and who contributed to the exhibition Thursday evening.