One of them tells tales of sticky contradictions and dualities inherent to vices rooted in Americana-distorted memories through whimsical art installations; the other writes award-winning books inspired by his mission to make reading more exciting, engaging, and accessible. Both of them are gracing Seattle in March and both of them are the antitheses of boring. In fact, they are magical.
First up, #1 New York Times bestselling author of poetry, young adult fiction, graphic novels, and more, Jason Reynolds, presented by Seattle Arts & Lectures, will be visiting Town Hall Seattle on Monday, March 13th. The Q&A style event will be moderated by fellow young adult author Martha Brockenbrough. Tickets are available in two options, in-person or online-only digital passes. If you're in the mood for some literary inspiration, get those tickets now, but don't take our word for it. Nan Graham, Senior Vice President and Publisher of Scribner, describes him best:
Jason Reynolds is one of the most extraordinary storytellers writing today, a magician of language and a force for good in the reading community.
Next, if you're seeking magic in the visual realm, head over to Museum of Museums on Cap Hill to visit contemporary artist Tariqa Waters' exhibit, "GUM BABY." Waters tackles the entire upper floor of the space with glass sculptures and subversive imagery, calling out the contradictions of "the assured" via her larger-than-life technicolor installations. Originally scheduled to end earlier this year, we're all in luck as the exhibit has been extended through April 31st!
"Gum Baby," says Mike Davis of KUOW, "exists somewhere between "Alice in Wonderland" and "The Wonderful Land of Oz."
PS: If you're not able to get out and about, you can also catch Tariqa Saturday nights at 11 PM on the Seattle Channel. Her educational and entertaining show, Thank You, Ms. Pam, celebrates local artists and creatives with vibrant whimsy, comedy sketches, art making, interviews, and more!