A reminder
Look up. Look around.
I'll be honest - this is as much for myself as for you.
To help with that, I made us both a sampler platter of stories (and paintings) of folks being awesome.
Plus, my best attempt at movie trailers for each piece, complete with soundtrack.
You can click on each image to learn more about the story, the community, and the painting.
If you’re interested in the actual artwork, click on the title of the piece to learn what’s available.
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
Sprout: The story of one woman's tenacity (and triumph!) in saving a decimated population of rare white pines.
Soundtrack: Meet Me in the Woods by Lord Huron
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
Borderline Miraculous: How gathering, over and over, with people you mistrust and fear can begin to heal decades of pain and violence.
Soundtrack: We Made It Through That Water by Free Agents Brass Band
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
Ingrained Care: After a family tragedy, one woman took over the family farm in 1970's Mississippi Delta, and immediately began leading the region in best conservation practices.
Soundtrack: She Sells Sanctuary by The Cult
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
The DDT: The story of one small-town Mississippi newspaper that spoke out against local injustice and racism for decades.
Soundtrack: The entire Rage Against the Machine oeuvre. Pick one.
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
The Bridge: How a lucky hand of craps in WWII Saipan led to a 200-acre public nature preserve thirty years later.
Soundtrack: The Old Days by Dr. Dog.
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
Sculpture Workshop: The blood, sweat, and tears of two local artists inspired a resident to support a community art dream.
Soundtrack: Love is Everywhere by Wilco.
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
Open to Change: A reminder that being open is never a bad idea.
Soundtrack: Vibes and Stuff by A Tribe Called Quest
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
Hangman's Army: Mentors come in all shapes and styles.
Soundtrack: The World is Yours by Nas.
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
58/59: How the new train station became a beacon of hope for one small Mississippi town.
Soundtrack: Peace Train by Yusuf/Cat Stevens :)
(click on the painting and scroll down for the story)
Mammoth Puppet Parade: Puppets + music + parades = folks show up.
Bonus track: All Night Long by Lionel Richie