A Weekend in Cincy

This weekend proved itself to be refreshing with a mixture of good company, stress relief, inspiration, and attitude change. After ending my Friday workday with stress and frustration, I headed out to see Abstrk, an exhibition at Manifest gallery in Cincinnati.

I was aware of this small gallery by the web but learned my former painting professor would be in the show. One of Boris Zakic’s pieces made an appearance at the small gallery among other works. Manifest is located on a small street off W.H. Taft, somewhat near the Cincinnati Art Museum. The exhibition focused on abstract works from artists around the country. Some pieces had a basis in real objects, such as those in a landscape, while other pieces created objects through abstract forms. I am enthralled by the idea of creating objects through the abstract. By painting abstractly, one can turn certain paint daubs into objects that have no specific definition. I hope to explore this more now that I have my painting supplies with me.

After hanging out with friends Friday night, it was nice to sleep in a little on Saturday. Claudio and I spent some time enjoying a calm day in his apartment. I broke out my easel, masonite, and paints as he read for class and we listened to the Sufjan Stevens radio on Pandora. Later, we joined friends to eat at Buca di Beppo, a family-style Italian restaurant. It was delicious! If you’ve never been, they serve large portions to share among your group. Each dining room has a theme and large tables ideal for the family. Seven of us shared a large salad, calamari, and three pasta dishes. It was very affordable, about $12 each.

On Sunday my brother dropped by on his way down from our farm in Indiana to visit Claudio and me. We went to Coffee Emporium in Over-the-Rhine. I had heard about this café from various people so I knew it had to be somewhat good. This location has a plethora of locally roasted beans from multiple countries, fresh-brewed coffees, and sweets from local shops. We enjoyed coffee and shared a Reeses’ pieces cookie. As we sat outside at a table, in the breeze and warm sun, I sipped my earthy coffee as Andrew and Claudio puffed cigars. What a great Sunday!

Andrew and Claudio enjoyed their cigars outside Coffee Emporium.

Claudio and I standing outside ArtWorks next to a knitted column. I'm holding my new coffee :)

So far, this city inspires me. There is so much going on in the arts community here. The neighborhoods are filled with local coffee shops, ethnic restaurants, live bands, and art galleries. This is what I needed. I am so ready to get my feet wet in this new experience and find my niche. There are so many things I want to do. God is good and may he show me the way.