Langston Hughes: A full biography
Langston Hughes stands as one of the most influential literary voices of the twentieth century. His work shaped the Harlem Renaissance, expanded the possibilities of African American art, and helped define the cultural and political identity of Black America. He gave everyday people a voice and turned their stories into art that still feels alive today.
Early life
James Mercer Langston Hughes was born on February 1, 1902, in Joplin, Missouri. His early years were marked by instability. His father, James Nathaniel Hughes, left the United States for Mexico due to the racial prejudice he faced while trying to build a professional career. His mother, Carrie Langston Hughes, often struggled to find steady work and moved from place to place. Because of this, Langston spent much of his childhood with his grandmother, Mary Patterson Langston, in Lawrence, Kansas.
His grandmother had been married to a prominent abolitionist and held fast to the ideals of justice, activism, and self respect. Her stories of struggle and resolve shaped Langston’s sense of history and helped him understand that words could carry hard truths with clarity and purpose.
After her death, Langston rejoined his mother in Lincoln, Illinois, and later moved with her to Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland’s diverse environment nurtured his early creative life. As a teenager he began writing poetry in earnest. He discovered the work of Carl Sandburg and Walt Whitman and found in their direct, rhythmic styles a model for his own voice.
Education and the famous train ride
After high school, Hughes spent a year in Mexico with his father. Their relationship was tense, partly because his father wanted him to study engineering rather than pursue literature. During a train ride on this trip, Hughes wrote “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” a poem that connected the depth of Black history to the flow of ancient rivers. The poem would become one of his most celebrated works.
In 1921 he enrolled at Columbia University in New York City. Columbia felt restrictive to him, but Harlem felt like home. The neighborhood’s clubs, streets, and social networks introduced him to the people and culture that became the heart of his writing. He left Columbia after a year, but he had already found his artistic community.
Life at sea and early breakthroughs
Hughes worked a series of jobs after leaving Columbia, including time as a seaman on ships that traveled to West Africa and Europe. The voyages broadened his view of Black identity and helped him see the struggles of African Americans in a larger global context.
He returned to the United States in 1924 and settled in Washington, D.C., where he supported himself with service jobs while writing in every spare moment. In 1925 he won a literary contest sponsored by Opportunity magazine for his poem “The Weary Blues.” The poem’s musical voice and emotional clarity caught the attention of writer Carl Van Vechten, who helped Hughes secure a book contract. His first collection, The Weary Blues (1926), introduced him as a bold new voice who wrote with honesty, rhythm, and an unwavering focus on real life.
Leader of the Harlem Renaissance
By the late 1920s Hughes was a central figure in the Harlem Renaissance. He published poetry, plays, essays, and fiction in major African American magazines. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania in 1929 and continued building a national reputation through lectures, performances, and community work.
Hughes stood out because he wrote about the full range of Black experience. He did not filter his subjects to satisfy outside expectations. He wrote about joy, pride, humor, frustration, hope, and hardship. His work demonstrated that literature could honor ordinary people without diminishing their complexity.
Political sympathies, shifting views, and humanism
The 1930s brought economic collapse and political upheaval. During this period Hughes showed sympathy toward Communism, largely because leftist groups appeared more willing than mainstream institutions to address the realities facing Black workers. In 1932 he traveled to the Soviet Union as part of a planned film project about African American life. Though the film was abandoned, the trip sharpened his sense that racial injustice was part of a wider global pattern.
Hughes never joined the Communist Party. His interest in Marxist ideas came from experience rather than doctrine. He believed any movement that claimed to support workers needed to confront the specific conditions faced by Black workers. Some of his early work appeared in leftist publications, which made the association more visible than he intended.
As reports of repression in the Soviet Union circulated and as American Communists struggled with racial issues, Hughes began to distance himself. By the late 1930s he had already stepped away from Communist circles. During the Cold War he was called before the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. In his 1953 testimony, he made clear that he no longer supported the Communist Party and that his earlier interest had faded long before the hearing. The experience strengthened his belief that strict ideology limits a writer’s freedom.
At his core, Hughes was guided by humanism. He believed in dignity, fairness, and the value of everyday life. He focused on the experiences that people shared and on the ways culture, humor, and community could create solidarity. His writing suggests that he did not hold a conventional belief in God. Although he came from a family with strong religious traditions, his adult worldview centered on people rather than divine authority. Works such as “Goodbye Christ” and other statements throughout his career show skepticism toward organized faith. His focus stayed on human potential, human responsibility, and the need for justice built by human hands.
Prose, plays, and the character of Simple
In the 1930s and 1940s Hughes expanded into fiction, journalism, drama, and satire. His collection The Ways of White Folks (1934) examined race relations with sharp insight. He produced plays for audiences across the country and wrote political commentary for newspapers.
In 1942 he introduced Jesse B. Semple, or “Simple,” in a newspaper column. Simple’s voice was witty, grounded, and unsentimental. Through Simple, Hughes cut through political confusion and spoke plainly about race, class, and American contradictions. The Simple stories became some of his most popular and accessible work.
Poetry of the people
Hughes believed poetry should serve broad audiences. He read in classrooms, churches, and labor halls. He collaborated with musicians and welcomed young readers into his world through children’s books. His collection Montage of a Dream Deferred (1951) captured the fast pace of postwar Harlem and raised a question that echoed throughout the civil rights era: What happens to a dream that cannot find room to grow?
Later years and legacy
Hughes remained active through the 1960s. He wrote, taught, traveled, and supported younger writers. His Harlem home became a meeting place for artists seeking guidance. He influenced poets, playwrights, musicians, and activists who carried his ideas into new movements.
Langston Hughes died on May 22, 1967, after complications from abdominal surgery. His body of work is vast. It includes poetry, drama, fiction, autobiography, essays, children’s literature, and translations. He transformed American literature by insisting that the lives of ordinary Black people were worthy of art. He worked with clarity and conviction, believing that honest stories could help build a fairer world.
Hughes left behind a legacy defined by courage, insight, and human connection. His voice remains one of the clearest and most enduring in American letters. If his work teaches anything, it is that truth, spoken plainly, can shape a culture and open doors that had long been shut.
Showing posts with label The arts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The arts. Show all posts
Sunday, November 16, 2025
Friday, May 24, 2024
Singapore
Modern-Day Singapore: A comprehensive exploration
Singapore, often referred to as the "Lion City," stands as a remarkable testament to resilience, innovation, and cultural amalgamation. This vibrant city-state in Southeast Asia has carved out a unique identity on the global stage, balancing tradition with cutting-edge advancements. To fully appreciate modern-day Singapore, one must delve into its history, people, economy, culture, and the innovative solutions it employs to tackle its challenges.
The people of Singapore
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, and religions. The population, as of 2024, stands at approximately 5.7 million people. The demographic landscape is dominated by ethnic Chinese, who make up about 74% of the population, followed by Malays (13%), Indians (9%), and a diverse mix of other ethnicities. This multicultural fabric is reflected in the harmonious coexistence of various cultural practices and beliefs.
Independence and historical context
Singapore's journey to independence is a story of perseverance and strategic vision. It gained full independence on August 9, 1965, after a brief merger with Malaysia. Before its independence, Singapore was a British colony from 1819 until 1963, with a brief period of Japanese occupation during World War II. The separation from Malaysia marked the beginning of Singapore's transformation into a sovereign nation.
Economic staples
Singapore boasts one of the world's most robust economies, characterized by a free-market, highly developed, and trade-oriented approach. The main pillars of its economy include:
Cultural staples
Singapore's culture is a rich tapestry woven from its diverse population. This diversity manifests in various aspects of everyday life:
Food
Singapore is a food paradise, renowned for its hawker centers and a wide variety of cuisine that reflects its multicultural heritage. Signature dishes include:
Singapore's music scene is eclectic, with influences ranging from traditional ethnic music to contemporary genres. The country hosts several music festivals and events, such as the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) and the Mosaic Music Festival.
Faith and tradition
Religious diversity is a cornerstone of Singaporean society, with Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Taoism being the major faiths represented. This religious plurality is evident in the numerous temples, mosques, churches, and gurdwaras scattered across the city.
Language
Singapore's linguistic landscape is equally diverse, with four official languages: English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. English is the lingua franca, used in government, business, and education.
Challenges of limited land
As a small island nation with a total land area of just 728.6 square kilometers, Singapore faces significant challenges related to land scarcity. The high population density necessitates innovative solutions to maximize space and ensure sustainable development.
Innovative solutions
Modern-day Singapore is a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Its rich cultural heritage, robust economy, and forward-thinking approach to urban challenges make it a model city-state in the 21st century. As it continues to navigate the complexities of limited land and a growing population, Singapore's commitment to sustainability and technological advancement ensures it remains a vibrant and thriving metropolis.
Singapore, often referred to as the "Lion City," stands as a remarkable testament to resilience, innovation, and cultural amalgamation. This vibrant city-state in Southeast Asia has carved out a unique identity on the global stage, balancing tradition with cutting-edge advancements. To fully appreciate modern-day Singapore, one must delve into its history, people, economy, culture, and the innovative solutions it employs to tackle its challenges.
The people of Singapore
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, and religions. The population, as of 2024, stands at approximately 5.7 million people. The demographic landscape is dominated by ethnic Chinese, who make up about 74% of the population, followed by Malays (13%), Indians (9%), and a diverse mix of other ethnicities. This multicultural fabric is reflected in the harmonious coexistence of various cultural practices and beliefs.
Independence and historical context
Singapore's journey to independence is a story of perseverance and strategic vision. It gained full independence on August 9, 1965, after a brief merger with Malaysia. Before its independence, Singapore was a British colony from 1819 until 1963, with a brief period of Japanese occupation during World War II. The separation from Malaysia marked the beginning of Singapore's transformation into a sovereign nation.
Economic staples
Singapore boasts one of the world's most robust economies, characterized by a free-market, highly developed, and trade-oriented approach. The main pillars of its economy include:
- Finance and banking: Singapore is a global financial hub, with a highly-developed banking sector and stock exchange.
- Trade and logistics: Its strategic location and world-class port facilities make it a critical artery in global trade.
- Technology and innovation: Singapore is rapidly becoming a leader in technology, with a thriving startup ecosystem and significant investments in research and development.
- Tourism: Iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa Island, and the Singapore Zoo attract millions of visitors annually.
- Manufacturing: High-tech manufacturing, particularly in electronics and pharmaceuticals, is a significant contributor to the economy.
Cultural staples
Singapore's culture is a rich tapestry woven from its diverse population. This diversity manifests in various aspects of everyday life:
Food
Singapore is a food paradise, renowned for its hawker centers and a wide variety of cuisine that reflects its multicultural heritage. Signature dishes include:
- Hainanese Chicken Rice: A simple yet flavorful dish that is a national favorite.
- Chili Crab: A delectable seafood dish often enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
- Laksa: A spicy noodle soup with Peranakan origins, combining Chinese and Malay culinary traditions.
Singapore's music scene is eclectic, with influences ranging from traditional ethnic music to contemporary genres. The country hosts several music festivals and events, such as the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) and the Mosaic Music Festival.
Faith and tradition
Religious diversity is a cornerstone of Singaporean society, with Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Taoism being the major faiths represented. This religious plurality is evident in the numerous temples, mosques, churches, and gurdwaras scattered across the city.
Language
Singapore's linguistic landscape is equally diverse, with four official languages: English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. English is the lingua franca, used in government, business, and education.
Challenges of limited land
As a small island nation with a total land area of just 728.6 square kilometers, Singapore faces significant challenges related to land scarcity. The high population density necessitates innovative solutions to maximize space and ensure sustainable development.
Innovative solutions
- Vertical expansion: To combat the challenge of limited land, Singapore has embraced vertical living and working spaces. Skyscrapers and high-rise buildings are commonplace, with many incorporating green spaces and sustainable designs.
- Land reclamation: Singapore has been reclaiming land from the sea since the 1960s, expanding its territory by about 25%. This reclaimed land is used for various purposes, including housing, commercial developments, and industrial parks.
- Smart urban planning: The government employs meticulous urban planning strategies, incorporating smart technology to optimize land use. Initiatives like the Smart Nation project aim to leverage data and technology to enhance urban living.
- Green spaces: Despite its limited land, Singapore prioritizes green spaces. The city is known as a "Garden City," with extensive parks, gardens, and green roofs. Notable examples include the Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Modern-day Singapore is a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Its rich cultural heritage, robust economy, and forward-thinking approach to urban challenges make it a model city-state in the 21st century. As it continues to navigate the complexities of limited land and a growing population, Singapore's commitment to sustainability and technological advancement ensures it remains a vibrant and thriving metropolis.
Monday, February 13, 2023
Educational hobbies for middle schoolers
Exploring fun and educational hobbies for middle school students
Introduction
Being in middle school is a unique time in life. It’s the period when students are transitioning from childhood to adulthood, and developing their social and educational skills for the future. Finding enjoyable yet educational hobbies can help them with this transition by providing an opportunity to explore new interests, develop new skills, make friends, and have fun! Let's look at some examples of great hobbies for middle schoolers.
Making art
Art is a great hobby for middle schoolers because it allows them to express themselves creatively while also learning how to use different materials, techniques, and tools. If your child is into drawing or painting, they can learn new techniques such as blending colors or perspective drawing. If they prefer doing crafts, they can try making things out of everyday items like paper mache or jewelry-making out of beads. Not only does art provide creative expression, but it also helps build problem-solving skills that will be useful later on in life.
Playing music
Music is another great hobby that offers both fun and educational benefits. Learning an instrument teaches discipline, concentration, and patience - all essential skills that will help in other areas of life. Playing music with other people teaches teamwork and how to work together towards a common goal. Additionally, there are many different types of instruments to choose from - piano, guitar, drums, etc. - so your child can find one that fits their personality best.
Cooking
Cooking can be both fun and educational! Kids can learn about different cultures by trying recipes from around the world; practice math by measuring ingredients; expand their vocabulary by reading labels; discover science by understanding how heat affects food; learn patience while waiting for dishes to cook; experiment with flavors; explore creativity through presentation; practice good hygiene habits (such as washing hands); and so much more! Cooking is a great way for kids to get involved in meal preparation while learning important life skills along the way.
Conclusion
There are so many options for fun yet educational hobbies that middle schoolers can enjoy! From art to music or cooking - the opportunities are endless! Engaging in these activities provides kids with opportunities to develop valuable social and academic skills while having a blast at the same time! Not only will your child be able to express themselves creatively, but they'll also be able to develop important problem-solving abilities which will help them succeed in other areas of life down the road. So if you're looking for ways to keep your middle schooler busy this summer, why not try one of these fun yet educational hobbies? Your child will thank you!
Introduction
Being in middle school is a unique time in life. It’s the period when students are transitioning from childhood to adulthood, and developing their social and educational skills for the future. Finding enjoyable yet educational hobbies can help them with this transition by providing an opportunity to explore new interests, develop new skills, make friends, and have fun! Let's look at some examples of great hobbies for middle schoolers.
Making art
Art is a great hobby for middle schoolers because it allows them to express themselves creatively while also learning how to use different materials, techniques, and tools. If your child is into drawing or painting, they can learn new techniques such as blending colors or perspective drawing. If they prefer doing crafts, they can try making things out of everyday items like paper mache or jewelry-making out of beads. Not only does art provide creative expression, but it also helps build problem-solving skills that will be useful later on in life.
Playing music
Music is another great hobby that offers both fun and educational benefits. Learning an instrument teaches discipline, concentration, and patience - all essential skills that will help in other areas of life. Playing music with other people teaches teamwork and how to work together towards a common goal. Additionally, there are many different types of instruments to choose from - piano, guitar, drums, etc. - so your child can find one that fits their personality best.
Cooking
Cooking can be both fun and educational! Kids can learn about different cultures by trying recipes from around the world; practice math by measuring ingredients; expand their vocabulary by reading labels; discover science by understanding how heat affects food; learn patience while waiting for dishes to cook; experiment with flavors; explore creativity through presentation; practice good hygiene habits (such as washing hands); and so much more! Cooking is a great way for kids to get involved in meal preparation while learning important life skills along the way.
Conclusion
There are so many options for fun yet educational hobbies that middle schoolers can enjoy! From art to music or cooking - the opportunities are endless! Engaging in these activities provides kids with opportunities to develop valuable social and academic skills while having a blast at the same time! Not only will your child be able to express themselves creatively, but they'll also be able to develop important problem-solving abilities which will help them succeed in other areas of life down the road. So if you're looking for ways to keep your middle schooler busy this summer, why not try one of these fun yet educational hobbies? Your child will thank you!
How art helps you reach your career goals
Introduction
It is often said that art and practicality don’t mix. But what if you could use your creative talents to gain valuable career skills? Appreciating art can give you the tools to achieve success in any field. Let’s explore how this appreciation can help you reach your professional goals.
Increased problem-solving skills
One of the key building blocks of creativity is problem-solving. Having an appreciation for art means having the ability to think critically and analyze complex issues in order to come up with creative solutions. These skills are invaluable in any industry and will help you stand out from other candidates when it comes time for job interviews or promotions.
Improved communication skills
Having a passion for art also helps you develop strong communication skills, which are essential for success in any profession. Being able to express yourself clearly and succinctly is a must in any career, and those who appreciate art have an advantage over their peers because they are able to draw on their knowledge of the arts to help them better explain their thoughts and ideas.
Enhanced leadership abilities
Leadership is another important skill that can be developed through an appreciation for art. Artistic people tend to have great vision and the ability to motivate others, both of which are key traits of successful leaders. They also have the ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions that may not otherwise have been considered.
Conclusion
An appreciation for art gives you valuable tools that can help you succeed in any profession, from problem-solving skills to enhanced leadership abilities. So if you have artistic talents or just enjoy appreciating artwork, don’t be afraid to explore these avenues as they could be just what your future career needs! Embrace your creative side – it might be the best decision you ever make!
If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy reading, Future careers for artistic students.
It is often said that art and practicality don’t mix. But what if you could use your creative talents to gain valuable career skills? Appreciating art can give you the tools to achieve success in any field. Let’s explore how this appreciation can help you reach your professional goals.
Increased problem-solving skills
One of the key building blocks of creativity is problem-solving. Having an appreciation for art means having the ability to think critically and analyze complex issues in order to come up with creative solutions. These skills are invaluable in any industry and will help you stand out from other candidates when it comes time for job interviews or promotions.
Improved communication skills
Having a passion for art also helps you develop strong communication skills, which are essential for success in any profession. Being able to express yourself clearly and succinctly is a must in any career, and those who appreciate art have an advantage over their peers because they are able to draw on their knowledge of the arts to help them better explain their thoughts and ideas.
Enhanced leadership abilities
Leadership is another important skill that can be developed through an appreciation for art. Artistic people tend to have great vision and the ability to motivate others, both of which are key traits of successful leaders. They also have the ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions that may not otherwise have been considered.
Conclusion
An appreciation for art gives you valuable tools that can help you succeed in any profession, from problem-solving skills to enhanced leadership abilities. So if you have artistic talents or just enjoy appreciating artwork, don’t be afraid to explore these avenues as they could be just what your future career needs! Embrace your creative side – it might be the best decision you ever make!
If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy reading, Future careers for artistic students.
Sunday, February 12, 2023
Future careers for artistic students
Unlocking your creative potential: Future careers for artistic students
Introduction
Are you a middle or high school student looking for future career ideas that are creative and outside-the-box? Have you ever wondered what you could do with your unique artistic talents? You’re in luck! There are an abundance of jobs out there that allow you to express your creativity while also having a successful career. Let’s take a look at some of the possibilities.
Graphic Design
Graphic design is the perfect marriage between art and technology. As a graphic designer, you would be tasked with creating visual concepts to communicate ideas and messages. This can range from designing website layouts, brochures, logos, posters, and more! Graphic designers use software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to create visually appealing art. In addition to being creative, graphic designers must have knowledge of design principles such as color theory, typography, composition, scale and hierarchy.
Animation
Animators create animated images through drawings or computer graphics. Animators work on projects ranging from video games to feature films! To be an animator requires an understanding of animation principles such as overlapping action and timing. Animators must also understand anatomy when creating characters that move realistically on screen. With advances in technology over the past few decades, it has become easier than ever for animators to create visually stunning animations with the help of software like Adobe After Effects or Maya 3D Animation Software.
Photography
Photographers capture images of people, places, products - anything really! Photography is all about capturing moments in time and expressing them through images. Photographers often specialize in certain types of photography such as portrait photography or product photography but can also explore other areas such as landscape photography or street photography. Photographers need an eye for detail and the ability to compose shots using lighting techniques and photo editing software such as Adobe Lightroom or Capture One Pro 11.
Conclusion
That’s just a quick overview of some potential careers for students who love art! There are so many more options out there that don’t involve traditional artistic talents like painting or drawing - careers like fashion design, interior design, web design, and illustration all require creativity but also technical skills that can be learned over time through courses or self-teaching materials available online! No matter what type of creative career you choose to pursue down the line, know that there are plenty of opportunities out there if you put in the effort! Good luck!
Introduction
Are you a middle or high school student looking for future career ideas that are creative and outside-the-box? Have you ever wondered what you could do with your unique artistic talents? You’re in luck! There are an abundance of jobs out there that allow you to express your creativity while also having a successful career. Let’s take a look at some of the possibilities.
Graphic Design
Graphic design is the perfect marriage between art and technology. As a graphic designer, you would be tasked with creating visual concepts to communicate ideas and messages. This can range from designing website layouts, brochures, logos, posters, and more! Graphic designers use software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to create visually appealing art. In addition to being creative, graphic designers must have knowledge of design principles such as color theory, typography, composition, scale and hierarchy.
Animation
Animators create animated images through drawings or computer graphics. Animators work on projects ranging from video games to feature films! To be an animator requires an understanding of animation principles such as overlapping action and timing. Animators must also understand anatomy when creating characters that move realistically on screen. With advances in technology over the past few decades, it has become easier than ever for animators to create visually stunning animations with the help of software like Adobe After Effects or Maya 3D Animation Software.
Photography
Photographers capture images of people, places, products - anything really! Photography is all about capturing moments in time and expressing them through images. Photographers often specialize in certain types of photography such as portrait photography or product photography but can also explore other areas such as landscape photography or street photography. Photographers need an eye for detail and the ability to compose shots using lighting techniques and photo editing software such as Adobe Lightroom or Capture One Pro 11.
Conclusion
That’s just a quick overview of some potential careers for students who love art! There are so many more options out there that don’t involve traditional artistic talents like painting or drawing - careers like fashion design, interior design, web design, and illustration all require creativity but also technical skills that can be learned over time through courses or self-teaching materials available online! No matter what type of creative career you choose to pursue down the line, know that there are plenty of opportunities out there if you put in the effort! Good luck!
Sunday, January 22, 2023
Art for Kids Hub on YouTube
If you're not already familiar with this great resource, check this out - there's a channel on YouTube called "Art for Kids Hub" featuring many, many videos showing you how to draw all sorts of things, step-by-step.
Currently, I'm teaching K-8 art as a long-term substitute, and so I've turned to this awesome resource from time to time in my work.
And don't forget - you can always make use of the search box at the top of the YouTube site for anything, so if you're not quite finding what you're looking for while scrolling within the actual channel, try utilizing that general search box at top to narrow things down. For example, I recently recommended to a student who's interested in learning how to draw cars that she check out "Art for Kids Hub," which I know has many videos on how to draw all sorts of cars. I searched "art for kids hub drawing cars" and sent her this link that was created by my search:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=art+for+kids+hub+drawing+cars
I hope this helps you out a little. I'll continue to keep an eye out for other art and drawing resources that you may find fun and helpful!
Currently, I'm teaching K-8 art as a long-term substitute, and so I've turned to this awesome resource from time to time in my work.
And don't forget - you can always make use of the search box at the top of the YouTube site for anything, so if you're not quite finding what you're looking for while scrolling within the actual channel, try utilizing that general search box at top to narrow things down. For example, I recently recommended to a student who's interested in learning how to draw cars that she check out "Art for Kids Hub," which I know has many videos on how to draw all sorts of cars. I searched "art for kids hub drawing cars" and sent her this link that was created by my search:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=art+for+kids+hub+drawing+cars
I hope this helps you out a little. I'll continue to keep an eye out for other art and drawing resources that you may find fun and helpful!
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Oksana Baiul
Fondly remembering the 1994 Lillehammer games: How a 16-year-old Oksana Baiul melted my 11-year-old baseball-loving heart and introduced me to the Winter Olympics and the world of figure skating.
Aaron S. Robertson
Recently, I was having a conversation with several friends, and we ended up on the topic of the Winter Olympics. The next Olympic Winter Games is scheduled for February 2022 in Beijing, China.
During that conversation, I recalled, fondly, the very first Winter Olympics that I actively tuned into - the 1994 games in Lillehammer, Norway. Not coincidentally, it was also the first time that I actively tuned into the sport of figure skating. And it was all because of Oksana Baiul of Ukraine.
I was 11 years old in February 1994 when the latest issue of my Sports Illustrated for Kids subscription arrived in my mailbox. And there she was, at 16 years old, gracing the cover of the magazine. My 11-year-old heart skipped a few beats and then proceeded to melt.
Prior to that issue of Sports Illustrated for Kids coming to the door, an issue that served as a preview to the upcoming games, I don't believe I had ever heard of Oksana Baiul, even though, I would soon learn, she was the ladies champion of the 1993 World Figure Skating Championships held in Prague, Czech Republic. But if I never heard of her beforehand, it wouldn't have been surprising, I suppose. For starters, I was a typical Midwestern city kid from a blue-collar family, and not
yet exposed to much of anything that could be described as "the performing arts" or "the fine arts," much less "worldly" or "world culture." Not unless you want to count all the times I had Chinese, or spaghetti, or tacos, for dinner. I probably would have had trouble locating Ukraine on the map back then (or on the globe, as many classrooms still had). Furthermore, when it came to sports, I was a big baseball and basketball fan, more so baseball. Just several months before the Olympics, this native Milwaukeean and die-hard Brewers fan found himself rooting for the Philadelphia Phillies in the 1993 World Series against the Toronto Bluejays. I faithfully watched every single game from beginning to end. The Bluejays ended up taking the series. Actually, when I think about it, that was the first World Series that I actively tuned into.
And as far as the American figure skaters went, sure, I may have heard the names Nancy Kerrigan, Tonya Harding, Michelle Kwan, Kristi Yamaguchi, and a few others before in passing, but so what? It didn't mean much to me. My friends and I were in love with baseball. We were boys of summer. Other than building the occasional snowman or snow fort, anything to do with winter sports and recreation seemed largely foreign and just plain blah to us. We were no Dan Jansens or Bonnie Blairs, that's for sure. When we weren't playing little league, or Cub Scout softball league, or games in the streets, we were building our card collections, watching the Brewers on TV, and taking in baseball trivia and history. In winter, we would switch over to playing baseball games on Nintendo and watching Milwaukee Bucks games on TV, all while impatiently waiting for spring training to come. But I'll tell you what - like every other American who didn't follow figure skating, I definitely became aware of the names Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding by 1994, following the infamous physical attack on Kerrigan by associates of Harding's. It was hard not to. It was a scandal that made the two young women household names around the world, and it eventually led to Harding being stripped of a U.S. championship title and banned from professional competition for life. Among the men responsible for the assault on Kerrigan were a bodyguard of Harding's, along with Harding's ex-husband. The attack occurred on January 6, 1994, in Detroit. Both competed in the Olympics the following month, and the tension between them was clearly visible as the investigation by the authorities and all the media buzz continued.
But it was this talented young woman from Ukraine that caught my attention and got me hooked on figure skating. And with it, I developed an appreciation for the Winter Olympics as a whole. I finally started paying attention to hometown heroes Jansen and Blair, who both took home gold from Lillehammer in their respective speed skating competitions.
The beauty, elegance, artistry, and grace of it all is truly amazing. It's theater, dance, ballet, and sport all rolled into one. And it's not all outwardly visible. It's not all simply physical movements, physical endurance, and physical appearance that we see. Far, far from it. I can't begin to imagine what goes on in the minds of these skaters - the amount of mental focus required to pull it all off successfully. Having to think of the next move in advance while somehow, simultaneously, being fully present in each and every moment. One slip of the mind, even for a split-second, can cost the entire show. And yet, they make it all seem so care-free. So seamless.
Following are four performances by Oksana Baiul during the 1994 Winter Olympics. The third video captures her gold medal performance, while the fourth one features a joint performance with Viktor Petrenko, also from Ukraine.
The very last video is entitled, "15 Strict Rules Female Figure Skaters Have To Follow." I came across it while conducting research for this post and thought it was worth sharing. Very informative and interesting.
Enjoy!
Aaron S. Robertson
Recently, I was having a conversation with several friends, and we ended up on the topic of the Winter Olympics. The next Olympic Winter Games is scheduled for February 2022 in Beijing, China.
During that conversation, I recalled, fondly, the very first Winter Olympics that I actively tuned into - the 1994 games in Lillehammer, Norway. Not coincidentally, it was also the first time that I actively tuned into the sport of figure skating. And it was all because of Oksana Baiul of Ukraine.
I was 11 years old in February 1994 when the latest issue of my Sports Illustrated for Kids subscription arrived in my mailbox. And there she was, at 16 years old, gracing the cover of the magazine. My 11-year-old heart skipped a few beats and then proceeded to melt.
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| The 1994 Sports Illustrated for Kids Oksana Baiul cover. |
And as far as the American figure skaters went, sure, I may have heard the names Nancy Kerrigan, Tonya Harding, Michelle Kwan, Kristi Yamaguchi, and a few others before in passing, but so what? It didn't mean much to me. My friends and I were in love with baseball. We were boys of summer. Other than building the occasional snowman or snow fort, anything to do with winter sports and recreation seemed largely foreign and just plain blah to us. We were no Dan Jansens or Bonnie Blairs, that's for sure. When we weren't playing little league, or Cub Scout softball league, or games in the streets, we were building our card collections, watching the Brewers on TV, and taking in baseball trivia and history. In winter, we would switch over to playing baseball games on Nintendo and watching Milwaukee Bucks games on TV, all while impatiently waiting for spring training to come. But I'll tell you what - like every other American who didn't follow figure skating, I definitely became aware of the names Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding by 1994, following the infamous physical attack on Kerrigan by associates of Harding's. It was hard not to. It was a scandal that made the two young women household names around the world, and it eventually led to Harding being stripped of a U.S. championship title and banned from professional competition for life. Among the men responsible for the assault on Kerrigan were a bodyguard of Harding's, along with Harding's ex-husband. The attack occurred on January 6, 1994, in Detroit. Both competed in the Olympics the following month, and the tension between them was clearly visible as the investigation by the authorities and all the media buzz continued.
But it was this talented young woman from Ukraine that caught my attention and got me hooked on figure skating. And with it, I developed an appreciation for the Winter Olympics as a whole. I finally started paying attention to hometown heroes Jansen and Blair, who both took home gold from Lillehammer in their respective speed skating competitions.
The beauty, elegance, artistry, and grace of it all is truly amazing. It's theater, dance, ballet, and sport all rolled into one. And it's not all outwardly visible. It's not all simply physical movements, physical endurance, and physical appearance that we see. Far, far from it. I can't begin to imagine what goes on in the minds of these skaters - the amount of mental focus required to pull it all off successfully. Having to think of the next move in advance while somehow, simultaneously, being fully present in each and every moment. One slip of the mind, even for a split-second, can cost the entire show. And yet, they make it all seem so care-free. So seamless.
Following are four performances by Oksana Baiul during the 1994 Winter Olympics. The third video captures her gold medal performance, while the fourth one features a joint performance with Viktor Petrenko, also from Ukraine.
The very last video is entitled, "15 Strict Rules Female Figure Skaters Have To Follow." I came across it while conducting research for this post and thought it was worth sharing. Very informative and interesting.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Andrea Bocelli Easter Sunday Milan Italy
In case you missed it or simply wish to watch it again, here is Andrea Bocelli’s breathtaking, memorable performance from Milan, Italy this past Sunday (Easter Day), April 12, 2020. Bocelli’s Easter Sunday performance even broke a YouTube record.
Sunday, February 9, 2020
The benefits of playing an instrument
Playing a musical instrument has many benefits for your brain and your ability to learn. Following are three videos I came across today on a YouTube search that discuss these many benefits. Do you play a musical instrument? What are your thoughts on the points being discussed in these videos? Feel free to share your observations and insights in the comments section below. We'd love to hear, and learn, from you!
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