Good morning, Tuesday. Oy vey. Truly.
It's day two of working from home and already I'm feeling a little bit nuts. Truth is, I'm a homebody and everybody knows it but not being able to do my normal stuff feels weird. I know it's not forever and I know I'm way better off than most- very grateful for that. But this is tough stuff.
In honor of that, I'd like to share some images that gave me a bit of delight last night. I was checking out Cooper Hewitt's amazing digital archive connected to their retrospective on Willi Smith, the eponymous designer famous in the late 70s and early 80s who unfortunately lost his life to AIDs. If you are a member of my generation or older, you no doubt either wore something by him or wanted to. His designs captured the creative energy of the time, and in the shadow of some very serious stuff going on like the AIDS crisis in this country. From Wikipedia:
"Willi Donnell Smith (February 29, 1948 – April 17, 1987) was an American fashion designer. At the time of his death, Smith was regarded as one of the most successful African-American designers in the fashion industry.[1] His company, WilliWear Limited, launched in 1976 and by 1986 grossed over $25 million in sales.[1] After Smith's death, his business partner, Laurie Mallet, continued the line with various designers creating collections. Without Smith, the company floundered. Due to financial problems and poor sales, WilliWear Limited ceased production in 1990.[2] WilliWear was the first clothing company to create womenswear and menswear under the same label. The accessibility and affordability of Smith's clothing helped to democratize fashion".
Plus he was a Philadelphian. I remember my whole family really dug him. He was a genius and gone way too soon.
I am hoping that this virus comes and goes quickly. But if it doesn't, we're in for it and we all know it. I'm hoping this leads to a surge in creativity- from all of our amazingly inspiring creators and makers here in New York City and everywhere. I love how my husband has started reporting on Facebook some very funny observational humor that is making people laugh. And I'm seeing people try to get creative when it comes to making a living, even in these weird early days. And love how all of the museums and cultural institutions are going online. Absolutely brilliant.
I found these images super inspiring and fun to look at. I for one love living in New York because just taking a walk around can offer endless inspiration. And with time outside restricted, I for one needed a boost. How great are these? To me, we need creative people more than ever- to keep us inspired, smiling, and hopeful. Just thought I'd share, and you can see more on Willi Smith here.
As I continue to work from home and work out from home, I'm trying to find ways to stay inspired and motivated. I hope you're all doing the same in addition to finding ways to stay healthy, safe, and vigilant. All the love to you. Cause that's what's up this sheltered in place kind of Tuesday in the 718. Yours, in keeping it together, creatively. XO