#I know what I want now by Edmond Monet

[edmond-monet]

i know what i want now

i didn’t before

i want cold mornings and leaves that crunch under our feet.

I want warm blankets.

I want a house in the woods.

I want clean air and sunshine and my own means of living.

a hand to hold, someone to confide in

I want to be loved; but I most of all,

I want to be loved by you.

[ulmerga-blog]

Musee Mormotten Monet

Journal 5

I had the pleasure of accompanying two aspiring female art teachers to the Musee Marmonttan Monet a few days ago. I have to say, it was a privilege to walk through the museum with them. Listening to such passion and knowledge of art was a thrilling event for me. It was honestly through their inspiration, that I found in that museum what I truly wanted to focus on for my blog post. 

Of course, now, being a young historian we have to first start with the history of the house. Yes, I say house because that is originally what the Musee Marmottan Monet started out as. In 1863, the Duke of Valmy, Francois Christophe Edmond had the house built as part of his estate. From there, after the Duke’s death, it was purchased by a lawyer with a passion for art, named Jules Marmotten. His love for art lead him to acquire small collections of various artists. It was not until his son, Paul Marmotten, that the house really started to get some valuable and notable pieces.

Paul Marmottan turned the house into a private gallery that he would show off to local people of power. After his death, he had plans to turn the house into something more. He wanted the house to become a public museum for all to enjoy and see. The house was sold to the Academie des Beaux-Arts in 1932. Then in 1934 the house officially became the Musee Marmottan Monet.

Now, a museum with the name of Monet in it, one would think about the prestige that comes along with having such a collection as Claude Monet’s. Do not get me wrong. I loved walking through the hall of his masterpieces. In fact, the ladies that I was with had nothing but praise for his inspiration on their art future careers and endeavors. However, his exhibit was not the one that caught my eye. 

These are the works of Berthe Morisot. Why did this exhibit catch my eye? Well for starters, as you enter the room you instantly know that there is something different about this wing than all the others. The walls are bare and modern. There are benches in the middle of the room. Even the floor is different from the entire rest of the house with a fine wooden finish. Why the difference I wondered? That is when I read that this was a wing in tribute to Berthe Morisot. A female artist, the first woman impressionist.

I think the Museum should be extra proud in proclaiming that they have the worlds leading collection of her work on display to this day. I find this fantastic. It is a shame that I have never even heard of this woman before when her artwork was so inspiring and well done. 

Her pieces were similar to Monet’s. Certainly on the same level of skill as his (at least from a non-art historian’s eye). What was different about her artwork though was the subject of the paintings. Morisot painted events that were real in her life such as children, women or the inside of a house. Settings that would have been true of a woman of that time. 

I love that she did this but I hate the idea that she was possibly confined to this because she was a woman. I believe this exhibit is so differently displayed because sadly, but also fantastically, it represents how just recently women are now getting more respect and the credit that they deserve.

I thought this area spoke to the prevailing pursuit of equality in all areas of life for women and for other minority groups as well. I felt the magnitude of this wing because the ladies that were teaching me so much about art and history throughout this entire museum probably did not have the opportunity to make her their idol instead of Claude Monet (although he is still an amazing artist to admire). 

Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this wonderful house or rather a museum. The rooms were all coordinated to match that of the impressionist artwork displayed in each of the rooms. I appreciated how they maintained the integrity of the history of the house while still putting on display some amazing artwork. I hope that this museum’s example of showing such amazing artwork regardless if it is from a  male or female speaks to others in the industry and even to our culture today.

Sources:

Adler, Kathleen. "Berthe Morisot. Lille and Martigny." The Burlington Magazine 144, no. 1192 (2002): 445-46. http://www.jstor.org.ezproxy.hope.edu/stable/889622.

"The Museum and Its History." Musée Marmottan Monet. Accessed May 2019. https://www.marmottan.fr/en/the-museum/the-museum-and-its-history/.

Michelin. Green Guide Paris. Michelin Editions Des Voyages, 2015.

[teensinthepark]

Get To Know The Artists!

TIPFest 2017 is right around the corner. Before you head out to the festival we want to give you a chance to get to know some of the young artists performing this year. Read about them below, follow them on social media and come out Saturday, September 23 to the Petrillo Music Shell for #TIPFest!

Shuba

Actual Name: Shuba Vedula

Twitter: @shubamusic

Instagram: @shubamusic 

Group Members: Nick Pappas, Chassion Rice and Aidan Landauer

What neighborhood do you represent? Hyde Park

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Teens should be excited about these events because music should be as accessible as possible. Seeing artists perform is a chance for teenagers to get inspired to get involved with creative activities and opportunities that are becoming increasingly available in the Chicago youth scene. Being inspired from such a young age will allow teens to start making new friends who share the same interests as them, discovering their creative potential, and improving their artistic projects.

What sets you apart from other artists?

As one of the only emerging Indian American music artists in Chicago, my ethnicity plays a major role not only in the kind of music I create, which draws a lot on worldly sounds infused in Pop/Hip Hop beats, but also the message I hope to send to women and young artists as a whole. I have been fortunate enough to attend a respected university, interact with young adults every day, and be part of many communities that inspire the experiences I have as a growing artist. Although I enjoy writing songs about love and heartbreak, I mostly sing about the kinds of issues that people think about every day, but don't necessarily express out loud or hear about in most other music. For example, a lot of my friends and youth I interact with in Chicago community organizations talk about how they worry about their future or how they feel about growing up, not just about how they like partying and going out.  My music and artistry focuses on these sorts of issues and how people can unite in their general insecurities about life and not feel ashamed about them.

Ty Won

Actual Name: Ty Weathersby Group Members: Carmani Edwards, Jamiah Rogers, Raamen Berry, Ty Weathersby and Jeremy Warren  What neighborhood do you represent? Chatam

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome?

The biggest challenge I’ve overcome is one that I am continuing to overcome, and that is discouragement, disappointment and not giving up on my dreams. Being a starving artist and an aspiring entertainer is a very tough road in which challenges are expected but still not easy to overcome. I audition and submit for many opportunities, some are successful and others are not. However, keeping a positive mindset and faith is how I am able to overcome this challenge. The music and entertainment industry is my passion.  I will not give up.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Teens should be excited to come to this event to enjoy great music and entertainment in a positive and safe environment. I want teens to come to this event to be inspired to follow their hearts' desire to do whatever it is that they are passionate about.

What sets you apart from other artists?

What sets me apart from other artists is my unique sound. I have the ability to rap,sing and dance which is a rare talent for an artist today especially coming from Chicago. I always make sure there is a message in all of my music. I also represent a struggle that is unique because it's rarely discussed but still resonates with people. The everyday struggles of the average young adult trying to navigate life is who I represent.

Twitter: @PrinceTyWon IG: @Ty_Won Soundcloud

Chai Tulani and The Bomba

Actual Name: Sila Tulani Group Members: Ezekiel Raggs -guitar, Samuel Glover- bass What neighborhood do you represent? Altgeld Gardens

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome?

The biggest challenge I've overcome was not being able to speak English When I first moved to the U.S and being teased for my heritage. I was never the "cool kid' coming up, but I always knew I was born to do something great.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Teens should be excited for these upcoming events because the artists that are performing there may be local artists now, however, many of us are on our way to being international stars by Serving phenomenal arts to the people to inspire the world. If anyone wishes to feel inspired they will find inspiration at these events.

What sets you apart from other artists?

I embrace my pain through my songs, even the happy ones. My performance and music doesn’t just play for the ears, it plays for the soul.

Twitter: @ChaiTulani IG: chaitulani Soundcloud

J Monet Dancers 

Actual Name: Jazzmin Monet

Members: Jazzmin Monet, Sherrion Jolly, Breanna Anderson, Tiah Jones, Nay'Aisha Edmond, N'Dea Kelly and Peyton Cox

What neighborhood do you represent? Near North, Austin and South Shore

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome?

The biggest challenge we've overcome is following our passion in spite of the lack of education and respect toward the therapeutic art of dance. Often been told to get a "real job." Some people don't respect art. Dance is more than movement, it's a lifestyle, a story, a gift given to share to heal and revive. Dance is a journey. Any artist can relate and/or aspire to the fact that it's fulfilling to not only share your gift, but to receive compensation for your work. I've been blessed to do both, so I'm a firm believer that following your dream, positioning yourself and knowing your worth is the key to prosper.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Teens should excited, because they not only get to attend these events, but participate and engage with artists that inspire them.

What sets you apart from other artists?

What sets us apart from other artists is our story. I spent some time running from dance, yet it was my first and only job since. I've been coaching and dancing professionally for 7 years. I went choreographing after school, performing in showcases as a child to my first job teaching as a sophomore in high school to starting a team my junior year (that has continued to this day) to earning a leadership scholarship to studying at Columbia College Chicago, and owning a studio for 2 years now (J Monet Studio, Home of Chez Elite Femmes and J Monet Dancers), coaching and performing at events through the city. Dance is life, truly.

Twitter: @Chez_elite

IG: @chez_elite

Taj Mxxoy

Actual Name: Thomas McCoy

What neighborhood do you represent? West Chatam

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome?

Being Afraid To Grow.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Because Its A Great way for teens all over the city to come together as one body with good people, vibes, and the music. Why not be excited.

What sets you apart from other artists? 

I'm Different. I'm Diverse. But I'm In My Own Lane.

Twitter: @Tajarama IG: @Tajmxxoy17 Soundcloud

NDPNDNT

Actual Name: Daniel Weisberg

Group Members: Daniel Weisberg, Simone Townshend, Damontay Banks, Chris Johnson, Derrick Griffin and Jazmyne Fountain

What neighborhood do you represent? West Side, Austin

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome?

Confidence and acceptance, the ability to listen, learn and accept criticism

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

It gives an opportunity for kids to ride the new wave of music, spread positivity and stay off the streets.  

What sets you apart from other artists?

I do not curse in my music. All of my music is honest and from the heart. I get into character and act out my words on stage.  I use storytelling, as well as facial expression and unique word pronunciations and adjustments to engage and get people to relate.

Twitter/IG:  @therealndpndnt  

KoStar

Group Members: Jazmine Stubbs, Kourtney Glenn What neighborhood do you represent? North Lawndale

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Because it's a chance to celebrate what is great in Chicago

What sets you apart from other artists? 

Our message is our strongest component. Reminding listeners to be aware of who they are emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. We are healers with our words and melodies.

Twitter/IG: @kostar_journey

Windy Indie

Actual Name: Brenda Gilbert 

What neighborhood do you represent? Austin, North Lawndale 

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome?

One of the biggest challenge I've had to overcome was being confident with my imprint on hip-hop as a violinist.

What sets you apart from other artists? 

I have an aspiration to bridge the gap between music and education as a tool to introduce all demographics to a wider selection of sound.

Twitter: @Windy_Indie IG: @Windy_Indy Soundcloud

Leximonee

Actual Name: Alexis Barr

What neighborhood do you represent? I represent Chicago as a whole

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Teens should be excited for these upcoming events because no other city has the opportunities and influences that Chicago has. These festivals show local Chicago artists their age and a bit older living outside the box and taking risks with their music. It takes a lot to bear yourself on a stage in front of strangers. On top of that you can meet new people to connect with and just be in a safe friendly environment having fun.

What sets you apart from other artists? 

I'm set apart from other artists because my sound is unique. I make music and I write poetry. I call myself a floetrist because the isn't a box I can be put into I'm a musician, a poet, a singer, a rapper. I'm a Floetrist.

Twitter/IG: @Leximonee97 Soundcloud

Ridley Victoria 

Actual Name: Ridley Morgan

What neighborhoods do you represent? Rogers Park

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome? 

The biggest challenge I've overcome is adversity regarding my career choice. When I decided to become a professional musician, many people around me didn't understand why I would choose such a grueling and chance-driven field. As time went on, however, and I started to accomplish more and more, people started to understand and support my dream.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

I think teenagers and kids in general are our future, and their opinions and intelligence actually hold a lot of weight in our communities. Events like these are created to hold the city together. In order to do that, we need all ages to be eager and involved. These events are geared toward the well-being of our youth, and it helps the cause immensely when the younger generation is able to get involved.

What sets you apart from other artists? 

What sets me apart from other artists is my versatility, and my drive. There are very few independent artists I know that work as hard as I do to reach desired goals and dreams. I refuse to be put into any artistic box, especially when it comes to genre. I am blessed with the capability of being a musical chameleon and switching it up according to my mood, desired message, or current creative space. My creativity is in constant flow, and I have my image and branding constructed down to a science.

IG/Twitter: @ridleythepoet Soundcloud

K.E.N

Actual Name: Kennedy Pulliam

What neighborhood do you represent? Chatam

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Its a great chance to showcase talent to teens and to have a space where everyone gets along and can just have fun

What sets you apart from other artists?

My energy I give loads of energy and like to make sure the people are involved ...I also like to mix styles I'm easy to listen to for lyrics but I also get it fresh and innovative for the younger generation

Twitter: The_Ken_ IG: The_k.e.n Soundcloud

Viano

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome? 

My biggest challenge is myself and coming to understand who I am outside of what others expect and have told me.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Because it is the music of their generation which is constantly transforming and forgoing genre. This music embraces that it is different and a melting pot of genres that have come before.

What sets you apart from other artists? 

I am an artist that writes music based on a feeling rather than a set goal for lyrics. My songs are more of an uncovering than a new piece. I also take longer than many artist to write a song due to the way in which I get intimate with every aspect of each chord and lyric.

Twitter: @Viano_music IG: @Vianomusic22

The Other Eric

Actual Name: Eric Williams What neighborhood do you represent? Humboldt Park, Austin, Garfield

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome? 

Accepting myself

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

It is a way to experience great new musical talents from Chicago artists while enjoying a positive atmosphere.

What sets you apart from other artists?

My unique arrangement of songs and desire to put the best effort in everything i want out of life, also my ability to play multiple instruments.

Twitter/IG: @Musiconthewall Soundcloud

Jane Weyes 

Actual Name: Monique Ogletree

What neighborhood do you represent? Southside

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome?

The biggest challenge I've overcome is performing in front of others. As a young creative starting out I struggled so much with owning my craft. Through relentless practice and dedication, as I found my voice more I was also able to develop the self-confidence I needed to perform in front of anyone anywhere.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Teens should be excited for these events because it recognizes the next generation of amazingly talented individuals on the rise in our city. These events are fun, safe, and celebrate creativity and the importance of self-expression within our youth. It's also beautiful and pertinent for us, as young people, to come together and support one another because we are the future.

What sets you apart from other artists? 

The biggest thing that sets me apart from other artists is my sound. Today's music enforces a strong emphasis on partying and carefree fun. I seek to incorporate a refreshing sound of new soul and r&b for this generation filled with soothing melodies and harmonies that gives us a taste of our favorite old school jams. Writing music and recording is a healing process and a continuous journey for me and when creating music, I like for my audience to know that they are never alone no matter what they're going through. Music connects us all.

Twitter/IG: @Janeweyes 

Soundcloud

Solo The Dweeb

Actual Name: SoHaan Goss

What neighborhood do you represent? South Side, East Side

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome? 

Stability

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

It not only represents the culture we have been exposed to, but shows what the bright minds of the next generation are capable of. This music although sometimes graphic and simplistic can still be seen as beautiful works of art once decoded correctly (or maybe sometimes it's there when you just wanna turn up). It's our identities and view points of Chicago culture itself.

What sets you apart from other artists? 

My hunger, ferocity, determination, my attitude, my consistency, my work ethic, my energy, my energy, my energy, and my imagination. Above all else, I feel like I'm much more than a rockstar. I set out to be a icon of my millennial generation and I plan to inspire change and love through my music. It's aggressive energy but it's completely positive. No one has the same presentation as me, the same set up let alone the same precense I bring when performing. The way I see it; with this blessing or not the way I see my route it's purely a matter of time.....

Twitter/IG: @solothedweeb

Soundcloud

Shayla Breneé

Actual Name: Shayla Johnson

What neighborhood do you represent? South Side, Hyde Park, Garfield

Describe the biggest challenge you've overcome? 

The biggest challenge I've overcome would have to be battling depression. I went through a period where every month I lost someone close to me for about a year and a half. Dealing with so much death and grief became overwhelming and I started to feel hopeless. But I started writing poetry and for the first time I felt like I had a purpose. My poetry is bigger than me because not only has it saved my life but it's saved others. And knowing that my struggles could help someone else in anyway is the most rewarding feeling there is.

Describe why teens should be excited for these upcoming events?

Teens should be excited for TIP Fest and other upcoming events because they showcase all of the talent and brilliance this city and the people have to offer. Today's artists are the future leaders and change makers of the world. And the events are free so there's no excuse not to go!

What sets you apart from other artists?

What sets me apart is my drive and my purpose. I'm not interested in being rich in a monetary sense. I'm interested in being rich in love and light and making other people's lives rich in the same way. I wanna be that example for little black girls that regardless of your circumstance what is meant for you will always come to pass. Any dream that you have is always within your reach and just because others may not be able to see your vision doesn't mean it's not true or tangible.

Twitter/Instagram: @shaybrenee

Soundcloud