This was my first visit to the High Museum of Art since I was a small girl and it’s been 20 years since I stepped over its threshold.  I have always wanted to go back to the High (as we Atlantans call it) because my experiences were enthralling but as adulthood ensued, I never  made the time.  I was born in the 70’s, raised during the 80’s.  I was bathed in culture with such exhibits featured at the High like the “China Exhibit” in which I can recall a memory of a huge card-catalog – like box filled with drawers of Asian spices one could pull out and sniff.  During field trips we frequented the museum when the “Sensations” exhibit came and we would stick our hands in holes filled with various items to heighten sensory awareness.  Not knowing what was at the end of that hole was what kept us loving when “Sensations” was at the High. My early contact with the High garnered life-long memories and now it was time for me to pass some of that on to my four-year-old and my girlfriend’s 15 year old daughter.

Therefore, on a day in late January, the three of us trudged through the cold and drizzle in search of artistic displays that could warm us at least visually and aesthetically. After checking our coats, (which is free!) paying the for the ticket (only $18, and tickets were buy one get one free on that day) the enthusiastic guide handed me a map of the museum and asked us, with even more enthusiasm if we were going to see the Leonardo da Vinci Exhibit which was one of the featured attractions and one of the artists recently covered in my young friend’s art class. We headed up to the second floor of the immaculate space and made our way to see what gifts the great Italian artists and scientist left behind for us.

We were all excited to see authentic pieces of the work of the one of the most famous artists in the world.  The da Vinci Exhibit, which will be at the High until February 21^st, contained about 50 works but boasted only 20 pieces that were actually done by the hand of the artist himself.  Most of these were drawings done in the early stages of his career. At that time, according to the information written on the wall signs next to the pieces, da Vinci was very interested in horses and equestrian arts and many of the pieces displayed exemplified that. One of the most impressive features of the exhibit were the huge statues made by Giovan Francesco Rustici, giving evidence to the influence Leonardo da Vinci had on the younger artists following him. Moving through the exhibit, we could see three stages of Leonardo da Vinci’s career:  the beginning, when he himself was a student, the phase when he was perfecting his craft as a sculptor, and finally, as a teacher, when artists inspired by him learned from his expertise and benefitted from his guidance.

The High had so much to offer that the different exhibits felt as if they would never end! As soon as we thought we might be done discovering, we stumbled upon more to see.  Our observations ranged from the John Portman Exhibit on Art and Architecture showing models of buildings from around the world to paintings highlighting local culture by Hale Woodruff featuring the consequences of erecting “housing projects” like Hearndon Homes on Northside Drive.  A beautifully colorful and moving political piece, the painting entitled, “Results of Good Housing,” speaks to the era in American history when housing projects were seen as the solution for the poor (which equaled out to blacks)  to receive adequate places to live during the Depression.  In actuality, this undertaking further pushed blacks into the bondages of racism and stereotyping.  Right now, Hearndon Homes is being demolished for many good reasons. One of the positive effects will be eradicating racial scars of the past.

Some of the most amazing paintings were of the Civil War era from the American Art exhibit.  On the walls were expansive portraits depicting the beautiful landscapes of the southern most regions of America. The beauty of the pictures contrasted with the desolation of deserted farms and plantation houses as the War swept through the land and the slaves ran for freedom.

The African Exhibit featured many different examples of the rich culture of the African peoples and was refreshing after viewing paintings that were both pleasing to the eye and painful reminders of a shameful past the Civil War can evoke.  My daughter, whose father is from Ghana, was excited to observe pieces from his home land and we marveled over huge masks made from wood used by the Bwa peoples from Burkina Faso.  Pieces from Nigeria, the Congo, Rwanda, and the Ivory Coast were also proudly displayed.

After three hours and complaints from my daughter that her feet were hurting, I turned to my friend and asked her if she was ready to leave.  She looked at me, gave me a hug, and told me she was glad we came.  She said she learned a lot and that she was anxious to get to school to let her art teacher know how much she had learned over the weekend.  I asked my daughter what she liked the most as we left the building and she said, “The Ghana stuff.”

The visit made an impression on all of us and definitely made me realize that going to the High is a great way to instill knowledge and culture within us without even leaving the city.  Take an afternoon, grab a friend or co-worker and check out all the wonders the High Museum of Art has waiting for you.

Whether you are heading to a metal show at Lenny’s or to the bottom of a pitcher at 97 Estoria, chances are you will pass through the Krog Street Tunnel.  Intersecting Dekalb Avenue and Wylie Street, the graffiti-blanketed tunnel conjoins more than Cabbagetown and Inman Park.

From the humblest tag – an artist’s signature, to intricate pieces – in the sense of slang for masterpieces – the tunnel is a cultural hub.  Along with its 4 and ½ star ranking on yelp.com, the tunnel has that other factor which makes something a place: pathos.

Built in the early 1900’s and becoming a popular canvas since the ‘80’s, the tunnel’s persistent controversy is more intriguing than its history.  Though not legally a free space to draw graffiti, and despite certain neighbors’ disapproval, it is clear the tunnel is going to be painted regardless of any resistance.

Even when a long-time Cabbagetown resident jumped from a tree at 2 a.m. and punched a kid who was tagging the wall, artists remained undeterred.

The tunnel today is proof that creativity will find its own avenue. Though it is considered poor form to “tag” over another’s work, any blank space the tunnel once had has been exhausted with multiple layers of spray paint. Unless one were to hazard a column closer to the road, in order to make a mark on this notorious street forum, it is considered a necessity to eclipse fellow artists. It is this “here today, gone tomorrow” sentiment that perhaps furthers the competition while also maintaining the public interest in the tunnel’s constant evolution.

Yet the Krog Tunnel does not just serve as a street gallery for tourists and locals alike to enjoy, it triples as a political forum and advertisement space also.  Littered with show posters, anti-war sentiments, and simply sentiment, the tunnel embodies a certain pulse of the city.  Though some artists simply scribble “Akron cats is da hardest,” another takes it upon themselves to lend perspective, i.e. “3,000 DEAD IN IRAQ IS BAD.  1,000,000 DEAD IN DARFUR IS WORSE.”  Whynatte, Atlanta’s original canned coffee drink, is endorsed in yellow letters on the outside of the tunnel on the Wylie Street side.

Many artists eschew a platform altogether and let the art speak for itself, using the colors of the Rasta – red, yellow, and green – to paint the sun rising out of a woman’s hair.  Someone even portrayed Detective Lenny Briscoe from the infinite-seasoned Law and Order.

Though not advisable at night – just a thought prompted by the sight of a column boasting a Sur 13 gang tag – visiting the Krog street tunnel and observing the diversity it represents is a must for those who want to see and know Atlanta.  May be if not visiting on purpose – a good idea might be just to begin noticing, when you inevitably drive through it, the constant evolution of one of Atlanta’s most interesting free exhibits.

Feel free to explore the original TheRealAtlanta.com photo collection here by the author of the article. Click on any photo image at the bottom of the page to get to a higher resolution one.

“Michael Jackson’s This is It” Release Party at Blockbuster
(25^th at 9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.)
All over Atlanta fans are invited to celebrate Michael’s movie release on DVD at midnight. Starting at 9:00, there will be performing and teaching of the infamous songs “Beat It” and “Thriller” by Choreographer Desiree Nathanson of Dance 101. In honor of his fashion statement, Atlanta Coats of Love will be collecting gloves and coats. This will be at the Brookhaven Blockbuster on 3944 Peachtree Road.
Directions

Origin at Emory University
(25^th – 28^th at 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.; 29^th at 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. )
Celebrating Charles Darwin’s 200^th anniversary of birth and The Origin of Species, which is his 150-year-old work of art. In this free exhibit you will explore 4 works of his art and see his evolution thoughts through his eyes. The presentation will be inside the Woodruff Library at Emory University, 540 Asbury Circle, Atlanta.
Directions

Northlake Mall presents Dine and Dance
(26^th at 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.)
Every last Tuesday of the month, this dancing event will be held in the Northlake‘s Food Garden. The John LaMatittina Band will be providing music for the night. This social event is free and open to the public. The mall is at 4800 Briarcliff Road, Atlanta, GA 30345 which is only 12 miles northeast of the downtown.
Information

The Fox Theatre presents Young Frankenstein
(26^th - 29^th at 8:00 p.m.; 30^th at 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.; 31^st at 1:00 pm & 6:30 pm.)
The winner of three Tony Awards, Mel Brooks, created this new musical comedy based off Mary Shelley’s memorable book. This enjoyable  revision of the Frankenstein legend will surely please every audience.  The Fox is at 660 Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta.
Tickets

Flamingo Fridays at the Sanctuary Nightclub & Lounge
(29^th at 9:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.)
The Sanctuary continues their notorious Latin dancing every Friday night. Salsa, Merengue and Bachata will be the core dances at this Buckhead hotspot. Ladies are free before 10:00 p.m., and there is a free beginner/intermediate Salsa lesson at 9:00 p.m. The Sanctuary is at 3209 Paces Ferry Place NW, Atlanta, GA 30305.
Information

The Masquerade presents Scary Kids Scaring Kids
(30^th at 6:00 p.m.)
Scary Kids Scaring Kids, named from a Cap’n Jazz song, are a post-hardcore/indie rock band that formed in 2002. They are known for a reckless and rousing live show.
Dance Gavin Dance, a more emo-leaning band, will also be in the showcase. Come support SKSK this Saturday on their very last tour! The Masquerade lies at 695 North Avenue NE.
Tickets

The Silver Scream Spook Show at the Plaza Theatre
(30^th at 1:00 p.m. & 10:00 p.m.)
For thirty minutes a live stage show full of  comedy, dancing girls, magic tricks, and frights! Afterwards, on 35mm film the classic horror Buck Rogers Planet Outlaws will be showing. Located at 1049 Ponce De Leon Avenue.
Information

Ferst Center of the Arts presents Natalie MacMaster And Donnell Leahy
(31^st at 5:00 p.m.)
The married couple are two of the world’s most notable fiddlers. Along with their Celtic music fiddling, they will be singing and dancing. This uplifting performance is not one to miss. 349 Ferst Drive NW, Atlanta 30332 is where the center is.
Information

]]> http://therealatlanta.com/2010/01/25/fun-things-to-do-in-atlanta-week-of-january-25th-to-31th/rachaelrene/feed/ 0 http://therealatlanta.com/2010/01/10/fun-things-to-do-in-atlanta-week-of-january-11th-to-17th/rachaelrene/ http://therealatlanta.com/2010/01/10/fun-things-to-do-in-atlanta-week-of-january-11th-to-17th/rachaelrene/#comments Sun, 10 Jan 2010 05:21:51 +0000 Rachael Rene http://therealatlanta.com/?p=1673 By Rachael Rene. Entertainment ideas for the week in Atlanta: Dialogue in the Dark at the Atlantic Station Exhibition Center, Dweezil Zappa at the Variety Playhouse, Open Mic at Meehan’s Public House, American Idol Viewing Party at the W Hotel, “A Sunday Afternoon at Loehmann’s” at The Ansley Park Playhouse, etc., etc.]]> By Rachael Rene.

Dialogue in the Dark at the Atlantic Station Exhibition Center
(Ongoing until March 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.)
Have you ever wondered what a blind person’s life is really like? In this unordinary exhibition, the blind will guide normal visitors through galleries and interactive environments without any light. This is surely to be an “eye-opening” outlook on how the blind fully use their other senses, and how sometimes valuable things are not appreciated enough. The exhibition center is located at 265 18th St., Suite 4200, Atlanta, GA.
Tickets

Dweezil Zappa plays at the Variety Playhouse
(11^th at 8:00 p.m.)
Dweezil will be rocking out with his musically inherited guitar talent from his father, along with six other members. This show is a tribute to his father, Frank Zappa. The Playhouse is located at 1099 Euclid Avenue in Little Five Points, close to the Carter Center and Virginia Highlands.
Tickets

Karaoke Monday’s at the Uptown Comedy Corner
(11^th at 8:30 p.m.)
Special K. from the Ricky Smiley Morning show will be hosting Karaoke this Monday. Come perform a song you may have in mind, or get a kick out of other people singing! Uptown is located at 800 Marietta Street, ATL, 30318.
Tickets

Open Mic at Meehan’s Public House
(12^th at 9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.)
Come prepared to sing acoustic, and compete! If you win over the most people with your performance, you’ll win a pretty great prize; free bar tab, cash, and a cab ride home! Meehan’s is located at 227 Sandy Springs Place, Suite 416, Atlanta, GA 30328.
Reservations

American Idol Viewing Party at the W Hotel
(13^th at 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.)
Review season nine’s auditions at the location they started in! There will be food from Jean-Georges Spice Market from 7-8pm and American Idol themed cocktails from Whiskey Park. The W is located in Midtown at 188 14th St. NE, ATL.
RSVP to watlanta.midtown@whotels.com
Directions

The Ansley Park Playhouse presents “A Sunday Afternoon at Loehmann’s”
(14^th at 8:00 p.m. & 17^th at 3:00 p.m.)
Shopping has become a form of fun relaxation, and the Southern ladies in this play will be displaying just that. The story starts off innocent, and then progresses into the dysfunctional standards of everyday living. It’s a very witty show that shouldn’t be missed. The Ansley Park Playhouse is located in the Peachtree Pointe Building on 1545 Peachtree Street.
Ticekts

Shen Yun at the Cobb Energy Performance Centre
(15^th at 7:30 p.m., 16^th at 2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., 17^th at 2:00 p.m.)
Shen Yun Performing Arts presents Chinese dancing that has been tradition for centuries. You will see the ancient legends and heroes come to life. Along with this, the Shen Yun Orchestra will be playing their original pieces with classical Western and Chinese instruments. Come to Cobb Energy for this uplifting experience at 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339.
Tickets

The Loft presents Avenue X
(15^th at 10:00 p.m.)
The Loft is going to hold Avenue X – which is a new wave night presented by DJIT and Warholboy. The cover charge is $5 for 21+, and $10 for 18-20. The location is in Midtown at 1374 W. Peachtree St.
Information

Gwinnett Performing Arts Center presents Ralphie May
(16^th at 7:00 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.)
Ralphie May has been a professional comedian since the age of 17. He has made appearances on Comedy Central, Craig Kilborn, Jimmy Kimmel, Jay Leno, and The Man Show. You may have even seen him on the infamous website Youtube. The Gwinnett Center is at 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097.
Tickets

Living Novel at the Relapse Theatre
(16^th at 9:00 p.m.)
The Relapse Theatre is offering something a little different in the arts department. Living Novel is a book that reads itself going along with music, all put together by Trey Duke. The general admission price is $10, but students can get in for $5. The Relapse Theatre is located on 380 14^th street, Atlanta.

Directions

(28th at 8:00pm)

Fox Trotsky is an indie band made up of three members: Mason Turner, Conor Quinn and Gus Fernandez (TheRealAtlanta.com contributor). Come support the native city band for the last time. 529’s perks are the patio outside with a window straight to the bar, the cheap cover charge, and their very cozy and fun atmosphere. It receives its name from being at 529 Flat Shoals Avenue, ATL which is the corner of Flat Shoals and Glenwood.

Information

Bodies Exhibition at the Premier Exhibition Center

(28th – 3rd from 10:00am – 9:00pm)

This is a chance to see what consists of our insides with authentic human preservations. This includes organs, whole and partial body specimens, and different systems in our bodies. Take advantage of this, it may solve some curious notions of yours. Premier is at Atlantic Station in Atlanta on 265 18th Street.

Ticket Information

Movie Lounge at the Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge

(29th at 10:00pm)

The last Tuesday of every month, The Fringe Factory presents a movie for free. The longue is a very unique establishment in The Highlands, but includes reasonable pricing compared to other surrounding places. The Ballroom Lounge is located directly below the historic inn. The Highland Inn is located at 644 North Highland Avenue, Atlanta in the Poncey-Highlands area.

Directions

The Five Spot holds a Jam Session

(29th at 9:00pm – 2:00am)

With free admission, this is a music lovers dream. It is first come; first serve, so try to arrive at 9:00 for a secure spot in the playlist! Kevin Scott will be hosting with his house band till about 11:00, following that will be open mic till about 12:30am, ending the night with a Jam Session. The Five Spot is at 1123 Euclid Avenue, Atlanta in the center of Little Five Points.

Information

Telepath performs at the Masquerade

(30th at 10:00pm)

Telepath is a very unique electronic group that brings in the feeling of togetherness by mixing different cultural samples. Striving to reveal the beauty of different cultures and people, they

create a layered sound. 695 North Avenue Northeast, ATL is where the Masquerade lies. If you pass over Freedom Parkway and are in a neighborhood area, you have definitely driven too far.

Tickets

New Year’s Improv Show at the Whole World Theatre

(31st at 10:00pm – 1:30am)

Every Thursday the actors put on a show driven straight by the energy of the audience. It will be a “film noir” themed performance, and you are welcome to dress accordingly! There will be an after party, and the night will include prizes, a champagne toast, and dessert bar. Come celebrate the New Year with this comedy extravaganza! The Whole World Theatre is located on 1216 Spring Street, Atlanta—right in Midtown.

Tickets

Countdown Atlanta at the Woodruff Arts Center

(31st at 9:00pm; Doors open at 8:30pm)

This is surely to be a thrilling night. The music to be featured will be house, all ages of hip hop, and reggae. There will be a light show, balloon drop, VIP areas, and of course many cash bars. This hot event will be airing on 95.5 the beat, and don’t miss their very own DJ Kidd. Tickets can be bought at the door at the Arts Center on 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309.

Ticket Information

DJ Night at Gilbert’s Mediterranean Café

(1st and 2nd at 11:00pm – 2:30am)

You will hear dance music from the present all the way back to the 1980’s. DJ Andres Vergas will be spinning in this comfortable, romantic atmosphere that has Mediterranean influenced food at reasonable pricing. 219 10th Street, Atlanta, GA 30309 is the location of Gilbert’s.

Information & Reservations

Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Fantasia, and Ruben Studdard at the Fox Theatre

(2nd at 8:00pm)

Maze and Frankie will bring you back to the style of their time, but you will also get to hear the more modern voices of the American Idols Fantasia and Ruben. It is surely to be a very memorable showcase. The fabulous Fox is located at 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308. It is pretty hard to miss the strong presence of their bright sign.

Tickets

American Scenes: Art from the Depression in the High Museum

(Current through January 10th)

The art ranges from full scale murals, to experimental canvases. Americans in the 1930’s were

faced to deal with a lot after the devastating depression. This showcases the varied thoughts of Americans; from the optimism of the Hoover Dam construction, to the darkness of those struggling in the rural areas. You will not only be experiencing artwork, but the history that goes with it. The High is located in Midtown Atlanta at 1280 Peachtree Street Northeast, directly across from the MARTA.

Tickets