I am finally back home in los angeles after a two week long whirlwind in five different cities! 

I am currently laying in the patch of sunlight just before the front door on a stack of cushions, taking in the warmth and sound of the birds. I spent the morning singing and learning how to play kirari by fujii kaze on piano! somehow, everything about this song struck me as special. the lyrics, the chords, the lead singer’s vocal style and expression… it is such a beautiful song that makes me feel happy, full of gratitude and life when I listen to it!

it has been such a whirlwind, I am grateful to have not only survived but thrived these past few weeks. my first art exhibition in the bay area… it was so amazing seeing hundreds of people immerse themselves and react to my work. countless people came to me thank me for my creative work. in those tough moments leading up to the exhibition I had wondered at some points, what the purpose of all this labor is for, what the function of sharing intimate art in public society is, questioning what kind of impacts or ripple effects it can have. the opening night of the exhibition answered all of these questions for me, and that is all I can say at present about it. 

eid passed by and I was able to enjoy spending time with family, and I successfully presented my research at the international congress! my ideas were met with curiosity and enthusiasm, and talking with others about it certainly inspired me and opened up my thinking into new ways I could expand the project. I am so grateful that I have this opportunity to expand my artistic practice into the realm of public art!

it was quite sweet, I also reunited with an old friend that I had lost contact with these past two years. 

yesterday, I began my “dedicated” study period for my licensing exam, and it has been very enjoyable so far, the process of learning. I have been taking walks in the hiking trail near my house while listening to a study podcast, and the flowers are in full bloom! I think they are yellow and orange wisteria. after spending a day working hard to study and finishing my work feeling satisfied, I spent quality time with my partner and we went to watch a play at a renowned asian american theater in little tokyo that was about a sci-fi dystopian love story. it was an interesting experience and I loved feeling the community that showed up to watch and support! we had late night dinner at shin sen gumi afterwards, and talked about some of favorite books recently. 

overall, I feel very excited for this upcoming time in los angeles. many new friends to spend time with, music to make, old friends to host, design fairs, wong kar wai screenings at brain dead, arts events… I have the gift of living my ideal lifestyle, and it so precious. 

with gratitude,
anika