05/08/2026
Last weekend I had the glorious opportunity to witness two dear ones shine and be reminded of the power of art.
For the last few years I’ve been fortunate to have a front row seat to the unfathomably talented ’s process as she created her new solo show “home.” (Please go gaze at all the pieces in Bend or on her website jenniferrabin.com)
Every piece is made of found objects and fibers and, together, the speaks to how we create hospitable (or inhospitable) places for ourselves and others. How we become resourceful when it’s needed.
The work made me think long and hard about who has access to what resources and how the resilient among us show immense creativity in creating home. I have so much to learn.
“In the most ACAB, ‘F**k you’ move, magpies are now using ‘anti-bird spikes’ to create nests,” Jennifer said during her artist talk. I now want to be a magpie, somehow creating home out of hate.
Jennifer’s work is vital, inspirational, painfulbeautiful, and spot on. So thrilled that it is being shown in Bend & I want it to travel the world!
That evening we hopped over to to witness the brilliance of on closing night of “Natasha Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812.” He, his cast mates, and al the technical folks blew us away and transported us. Such a fantastic performance & so beautiful to get to cheer this beloved one on!
To get to bear witness to someone in their element is a holy thing and Saturday held this, times two, for us. Witnessing someone soar is a gift like none other!
In a world that is undermining art, it is more important than ever to make your way to it, support it, and make it!
Jennifer and Austin, keep making art that makes us uncomfortable, thoughtful, and awake. We are so much better because of you!! (Please hop over and follow these two to learn more about ther offerings.)
