On my birthday, my mission was to finally make it to the International Museum of Photography.  The museum was showcasing the collection of Barbara Bloom which included pieces from the "Reign of Narcissism."  Her use of art and imagery to push the boundries of our obsession with the self was not only witty but tongue-in-cheek, and quiet brilliant. I loved the King Louis styled chairs where she had one chair upholstered with her dental records, the other with her astrology chart.  Even the playboy in braille left one to wonder if photographic images are more sensual, than the words in braille being touched to describe the sensual image?  Do the blind perceive, see things beyond the surface that we -with full visual capabilities-do not? 

Blooms self made busts and pre-inscribed tombstones left much to ponder but it was the urushi wall exhibition that resonated with my spirit the most- she highlights a porcelin technique in Japan where things have greater value if they are broken. However, in America the opposite is true- we prefer the brand new, packaged, crisp, untouched, untarnished love of material objects and people.  We have an obsession with perfection, even though there is beauty hidden in having flaws and in the flaws of our lessons. 

Sitting and staring at her collective statement allowed me to reflect on my own experience, that no matter how perfect the package of a person may seem externally, sometimes it hides the fact that a persons spirit can be tarnished, bruised are even broken due to circumstances that are invisible to the naked eye.  And how unlike material things, those porcelin souls forged by the fires of life and personal hardships come out more beautiful than before, almost as if they were broken to be made whole...to increase their value and the strength of their spirit. I think it is going through the fires of life with gratitude that is the key.

       The best suprise of all was hanging in the far back room, it happened to be Robert Mapplethorps famous 'Black Book' exhibit.  His use of lighting is gorgeous
and his male subjects are definate conversation pieces. Although a few of his images are quiet racy, the quotes made about the artwork you are viewing (placed between the photographs) will definately raises an eyebrow or two.  The fact is, no matter what kind of artwork an artist creates, no matter the medium, people will always have their opinions.  Create anyway.  :)

International Center of Photography 
 1133 Avenue of the Americas at 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036