Barnes Foundation art exhibition of “30 Americans” gave me a good reason to take a road trip to Philadelphia and a chance to catch up briefly with #PilatesSister Nicole Alvarez, who is deep in the process of transforming a new movement studio space in the Kensington community of Philadelphia.

Not far from the Gratz factory location, and ten minutes from the Barnes Foundation, Nicole is going to be making waves and building strong bodies at her new studio space.  We had just enough time to hug, kiss run through her studio before Sista-Girl jumped on a skype session and I jumped back on the highway to New Jersey.

Best wishes in the next steps of Core Love Culture Studio.

The 30 Americans Exhibition featured the painting, sculpture, and photography of some of the most influential contemporary African American artists today, exploring identity against a backdrop of pervasive stereotyping of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and class—addressing intersectional politics.

It was closing in January and since I hadn’t yet seen the Barnes Foundation massive collection of Impressionist artists, Monet, Matisse, Van Gogh, Picasso, etc., I used a few free hours for the road trip and to spend 90 minutes with these masters or art.

With no exception, the classical impressionist’s and the contemporary work of the artists known as the the 30 Americans were rich and filling.   I have seen the work  of each of these artists before and still appreciate the power of their message and expression with fresh eyes each time.

Nick Cave’s “Soundsuit” and Mickalene Thomas’ “Queen in Rhinestones” for example, are all that!