The Great Abyss from The Music Bed on Vimeo.

Dinner at Arabica Lounge last Thursday night was a well-rounded culinary treat. Loved the entire experience: colors, flavors and community. Thank you Southern Nomad for introducing me.  

Esther and I shared the lime vinaigrette and coriander salad (you see in the bottom corner of the menu) and the most delicious homemade pasta.  For dessert she ordered the rice pudding (which was so picturesque it took her 5 minutes to even take a bite of - no lie), and I finished my meal with a pepper and lime, cardamom and chocolate cake.  Esther may have to correct me on some of these details, or supplement, because I largely let her take hold of the ordering, it being one of her favorite Capitol Hill retreats.  


Though the food was beautiful and delicious, it was the atmosphere tailored by the artisan who owns and runs the store.  It was the bikes that strolled in with their owners, the hugs issued at the door, meals shared at the large wooden table, the community that was evidently central to the business that captured my attention as it had captured Esther's appreciation.  Let us taste authenticity - let us feast on beauty and community - and as artists we will come alive.  And we'll come back again, and again. 

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Esther was talking at lunch about this book she's reading.  She was sharing about the artist and 'stealing' and what not.  It is always a tricky subject for artists... none of us are autonomous in art.  Yet, how and where and to what degree do we knowingly permit the art of others to influence our own?  I tend to hate copying.  And being copied, for the sake of copying.  I love seeing people do things that they thought up themselves, or that naturally flow out of their personal taste and interests, not as a product of mass media and fashion.

That said....I decided to try a little stealing. The problem with that is, very often the original is still far better. 

I guess my hair was better for trying.  I'd tried doing a couple other creative things, but when they all fell apart (literally) and the clock was five past when I should be leaving... I decided to attempt what I'd seen and admired.  Why not?

Here's a wild thought.  I'm actually highly integrated in an artistic community - already.  We don't have weekly dinners nor are we all best friends and collaberating on projects (yet), but I know a lot of highly talented, artistic people.  Wild.  And somehow suddenly, I'm getting opportunities to call on those people and connect them with clients who need their services.  "Katrina, can you send me those photographers you mentioned?"  "Do you know any graphic designers?"  "We have a client who wants to re-brand, know anyone who could help?"  I LOVE THIS.  I really do.  :)  And while there are big dreams in my heart that have yet to be realized, just getting to connect talented, passionate people with those who can utilize their work.... I love.  :)