World Science Festival 2009-June 10-14

The World Science Festival is an amazing festival held each year at various locations in NYC. So cool, this stuff. Check out the programming and be wowed.

Yeah, so I'm a nerd. So what?

Awaken Your Social Self with Lucid NYC

There are enough social things to do on a Thursday nite in NYC to make your head spin. Most are fun, frivolous, fancy. But if you are searching for a night out that mixes the whirl of massive mingling with a drop of social enlightenment, then come to a Lucid NYC event.

Lucid NYC is a new social experiment. The model is simple - throw a party in a chic Manhattan loft space and let a few presenters onstage to gab briefly about how they are changing the world. People interface on what they have heard and are inspired to also change the world. Not too ambitious now, is it?

Luckily, Lucid NYC exists totally without pretension and holier-than-thou preachiness. Every event I've attended has an overstock of humor. Presentations have covered every topic from ending world hunger (The Hunger Project) to the world's worst automobile race (The Mongol Rally). I've learned about Freegans as well as a recent corporate innovation exercise at an NPR station. Attendees are of the hip, arty, whipsmart and enlightened variety. Let's just say its a good time.

So hope to see you at the next event, which is scheduled for November 20. Check Lucid NYC's website for more details.

House & Garden Design Happening Shows Savvy Form & Function

House & Garden launched Design Happening 2007 this past week, turning a potentially stuffy celebration of tables and chairs into an all-out, hipper-than-now assault on preconceived design notions. Uniquely entertaining programming loaded with art celebs galore revealed that design influences everything from the movies we love to the furniture that cradles our behinds. Two design chats in particular showed that substantial beauty, tasteful whimsy, expert craftsmanship and an eye for storytelling are elements vital to shaking up today's dangerously cookie-cutter design sensibility.

Cristina Grajales Illuminates Brazilian Modernist Design
At my new fave furniture gallery Espasso (superbly run by the artistically daring, impossibly charming Carlos Junqueira), brilliant advisor Cristina Grajales presented the cultural influences inherent in Brazilian design. Passionate about the important architects and designers of the region, Grajales has a deep and resonating connection to the beauty of Brazil's constructed classics. Learning about structural integrity combined with natural form and materials, a standard in the country's design philosophy, from a master like Grajales made for an evening of aesthetic illumination. Visit the remarkable Cristina Grajales Gallery at 10 Greene St. (near Canal).

Kristi Zea Turns the Lens on the Design of Cinema
What do the design elements of the Oscar-winning Goodfellas and Silence of the Lambs have in common with the look of thrillers like The Brave One and Changing Lanes? They benefit from the production design genius of Kristi Zea, whose keen eye for authentic environments has fulfilled the artistic vision of cinematic luminaries like Scorsese and Demme. At the famed Tribeca Cinemas, home of the Tribeca Film Festival, Zea took us through precise film moments where every element of production design coalesced perfectly to create screen magic. After showing the famed Goodfellas scene where Henry and Karen enter the Copacabana, Zoe commented, "Marty sure knows how to make movies." What a privilege to hear first-hand from the designer that collaborates on such art.

Bonus: Running into dynamic interior design talent Amy Lau at the Espasso event in all her redheaded glory, along with learning from Grajalas of so many notable female designers from Brazil. And at the cinema, hearing of Zea's next project Confessions of a Shopaholic and learning of how such creatures display their collections. Sounds like she could do research at my apartment.

Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Muhammad Yunus Speaks of Small Miracles, Momentous Results

On the first anniversary of receiving his award, 2006 Nobel Peace Prize recipient Dr. Muhammad Yunus spoke passionately on what he has tirelessly championed this past year - starting small to allow dramatically momentous ideas to blossom. Known as the grandfather of the microcredit and a revolutionary in the structure of rural economic and social development, Dr. Yunus is founder of Grameen Bank and was at New York City's Harmonie Club on Oct. 11 to speak about Sing for Hope and the launch of Grameen America.

On the eve of this year's Nobel Peace Prize announcements, I jokingly asked Dr. Yunus if he knew who might win (nice to wake up to news that it is Al Gore and the U.N. Panel on Climate Change!!!) But the night's message was primarily about maximizing one's talents to improve current social and economic climates in crisis. In particular, the extraordinary vocal musicians involved with Sing for Hope, a charity that empowers artists to utilize their unique talents for humanitarian causes, inspired those in attendance. The delightfully dazzling vocals of the group's founding director Camille Zamora and co-director Monica Yunus (and proud daughter of Dr. Yunus) proved that those blessed with great talent often have even greater hearts. And as evidenced by one audience member who pledged to match the night's donations up to $100,000, being entertained by both opera and Broadway singers at the height of their careers would inspire anyone to give give give!

Bonus: Talking political action with Sing for Hope Board member Beverly Cooper Neufeld, a jewel of a NYC woman making a difference. A real powerhouse, she kindly introduced me to everyone from Broadway producers to philanthropists extraordinaire. And to be entertained by singers of such quality in such an intimate space was just perfection. Thank you New York City and especially to my friend Tony Kalm, for helping to make this possible!

Marathon MoMA Day

Yesterday, I spent most of the day at the Museum of Modern Art, and the artsy offerings proved why the place is consistently one of my favorite NYC destinations:

Richard Serra: Sculpture: Forty Years

By far, this is the best sculptural exhibit I've seen in years. You can't help but be awed by the grandeur of Richard Serra's massive circular steel structures. There is an almost gravitational pull between the sloping metal walls of these immense constructions, and the physical energy is delightful and horrifying at the same time. Serra's earlier work with lead, rubber and fiberglass is also on display, just as stark and gripping though less grand in scale. All of it is art you can feel, deep inside your chest.

Bonus: Richard Serra will be live and in person at MoMA on September 6 at 6pm for a discussion of his work and the exhibition with curator Lynne Cooke.

Andy Warhol's The Chelsea Girls

After eating some seriously strange lime mint gelato in MoMA's sculpture garden and gazing at more Serra sculptures, I soon headed back inside to take in the screening of Andy Warhol's The Chelsea Girls. In a supreme stroke of luck for this Warhol film newbie, the movie was introduced by Douglas Crimp, art critic and curator, who eased us into this avant-garde cinematic extravaganza with personal insights into Warhol's New York City art scene.

Set in numerous rooms at the infamous Chelsea Hotel and featuring a seriously disturbed and chemically altered cast of underground characters, The Chelsea Girls is a triumph for societal outcasts. As Crimp noted, 'Warhol certifies depravity' by putting these charismatic misfits on screen with all their drug-induced screeching, scratching and rant-a-maroles. At times excruciating, at times meditative, at times hysterically funny, poignant and heartbreaking, this is one serious cinematic experience for those unafraid to venture into a split-screen purgatory. At a whopping 195 minutes, don't dare enter without a trail of breadcrumbs to lead you safely back to normal.

Double Bonus: The screening was free due to Target Free Friday Nights, which allows no-cost admission to the museum from 4-8pm each Friday. However, tickets to films must be obtained at the information desk before 4pm or at the Film & Media desk after that. Screenings often sell out, so get tix earlier rather than later.

Einstein Talk Down the Block

One of the best things about living in New York City for any lit chick is the plethora of book events on any given night. Usually, these talks featuring the often famous & usually bestselling author are free (or at the very least, major-cheap.) Tonight, my love of science coupled with the draw of a well-crafted biography led me to shell out 15 bucks to hear Walter Isaacson speak about the famous subject for his book Einstein: His Life and Universe. This enlightening talk briefly explained Einstein's evolution into a radical physicist, focusing on high points in his mammoth scientific career and impact on historical events in the 20th Century. Isaacson's biography is the first to utilize all of Einstein's papers since they have become available, so there are new insights to be had.

We all feel we know everything there is to know about Einstein, so rather than rehash all that Isaacson wisely followed a succinct theme - the imperative nature of creativity in both Einstein's scientific output and in the development of any revolutionary thought. Einstein's quote of "Imagination is more important than knowledge" and his practice of "thought experiments" (which Isaacson explained as daydreaming to you and me) reinforce the philosophy that creativity and a certain non-conformity are what spur advancement in a thinking society.

Bonus: Learning more about Einstein's spiritual belief that god is manifest in the laws of the universe and the harmony of all that exists. Also seeing live-and-in-person journalist extraordinaire Walter Isaacson, former chairman of CNN and managing editor of Time (what a career!)

Major Bonus: Isaacson's observation that New York City has the electricity of a town filled with people who think creatively and differently, affirming my belief that I am in the right place. Also, the fact that this event took place just a block from my apartment, at the NY Historical Society. Easy walk!!!

Genius Science Talk in Tribeca

It was a thrill to see geek and chic collide today with a science chitchat at the ubercool Tribeca Film Festival. Prodigies, Nobelists and Penguins: Science and Stereotypes in the Movies was a smart Q&A with the startlingly brilliant director Darren Aronofsky and the supersweet screenwriter Billy Shebar, moderated by physics prof & writer Sidney Perkowitz.

Much of today's talk focused on the very fine line between obsessive devotion to one's scientific work and outright madness, a perfect example being the protagonist Max in Aronofsky's masterwork Pi. It was a thrill for me to ask the panelists about research of the scientific specifics in film and to see if actors were encouraged to do their own investigations. In addition to praising collaboration and written resources, Aronofsky offered a great tale about watching human brain surgery with Hugh Jackman, costar of The Fountain. Shebar said much of his research came from actually talking with people about their experiences, which allows for more humanity and humor to come forth.

This has been my first ever exposure to the Tribeca Film Fest, and I'll be taking in another film tonight. The massive amount of films & events is overwhelming, so it takes much effort to pick and choose. But it is oh so worth it if you are a film fanatic. And a shout out to the admirable work done by The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation and their promotion of science in media.

Stem Cells at 92nd St Y

Even before moving to NYC, people were raving to me about programs at the 92nd St Y. This beloved cultural center on Manhattan's East Side fosters physical, intellectual and spiritual health. The lectures and performances are top notch, and you can also work out there or take cool classes.

My first intro to the place was Stem Cell Research: The Way Forward sponsored by the NY Stem Cell Foundation. The line up was amazing and discussion rather... political. While I would have preferred a bit more yack yack on stem cell science as well as what is on the horizon, you couldn't have asked for a better line up of experts. Michael J. Fox gave the welcoming remarks. Kevin C. Eggan of Harvard & MacArthur Fellowship recipient, Nobel recipient Harold Varmus of Sloan-Kettering & NIH, NY lieutenant governor David A. Paterson, Susan L. Solomon of NY Stem Cell Foundation and renowned artist Chuck Close all spoke passionately about a number of related issues, moderated by WNYC's Leonard Lopate. Some notable remarks:

• "Pure science is a good enough reason to do this research" - Chuck Close, who is confined to a wheelchair and realizes the science is unlikely to help him in his lifetime
• "Jail is a hard place to get tenure from" - Kevin Eggan, who decided not to work in a state where stem cell research was illegal
• "There are two types of elected officials: adult and embryonic" - Lt. Gov. Paterson, expressing frustration with some politicians' views on this research

Upcoming speakers at the 92nd St Y include Baryshnikov, Yoko Ono, Gloria Steinem and Al Gore. Check it out!

Spring, Spirit & the Shake Shack

It is officially SPRING in New York! The sidewalk cafes are full, the dogs are out in force & the park ponds are filled with rowboats. So yesterday was spent almost entirely outside at Madison Square Park for a visit to the Shake Shack. Heavenly yummy burgers, dogs, fries and FROZEN CUSTARD (oh my, oh my my my). The line goes half way around the park, but it is worth the wait. The prices are CHEAP and standing in line on a gorgeous day ain't half bad. And you get to check out the cool public art & music!

Early morning was spent with the lovely Rev. Kimberleigh Jordan at Marble Collegiate Church for the second Art & Soul talk. This Sunday's guest was Mary Gordon, renowned author who often explores Catholicism in novels like Spending, Pearl & Final Payments. This extraordinary Q&A offered intelligent insight into the creative process. When speaking of the balance of discipline & creativity, Gordon likened the muse to a horse that galloped 'round and 'round her house, but if she wasn't standing ready at the door she would never be able to jump on its back. I could go on and on about her brilliant comments on society, the rising cost of living in NYC, the need for discipline when the passion for writing is not fed... but to get a real sense of her spirituality, talent and intelligence it is probably best to read her work.

Feeding the Soul & Feast for the Eyes

Art & Soul at Marble Collegiate Church: Located on 5th Ave. at 29th St., this church had Norman Vincent Peale as it's pastor for 52 years. Gorgeous building, wonderful programs. The Q&A focused on following the spirit in creative practice, and featured Tony-award winning actor Jeffrey Wright, perhaps best known for his title role in Basquiat. He also won acclaim in Syriana and Casino Royale. Wright gave great examples of following a calling/spirit/muse (name it what you will) in his art and the struggles and rewards that presents. In our brief discussion afterwards, it was nice to learn he grew up in D.C.

The Photography Show 07: An amazingly huge, glorious presentation of a diverse array of photography at this annual show, hosted by AIPAD. Many famous photographs by artists you know and love (Cartier-Bresson! Arbus! Man Ray!) and others not-so-known-but-soon-to-be-loved (Fontcubeta! Titarenko! Davis!) Around 90 galleries represented from all over the world, thousands of photos displayed, all genres, sizes, eras, scenes. A great treat for the eyes on a day when the heavens decided to open and let the waterfalls out to play.

Similar note: Hoover Factory posting on photog Chris Jordon. Neat-o!

Hawke Sighting

Tonight's treat was hearing the great and gritty crime novelist Richard Hawke (aka Tim Cockey) read from his newest work Cold Day in Hell at the Chelsea Barnes & Noble. Much of the story takes place on the Upper West Side and in Central Park - my neck of the woods.

Think yoga and PI's never mix? Think late night talk show hosts could never be pegged for murder most gruesome? Think that crime noir could never be au courant? Read the first few pages of the book and throw out such silly notions. This is a damn good read.

Bonus: The folks at the reading were fantastic New Yorkers. Great conversation before and after (but not during!) the reading. And a shout out to writer/caterer/chef extraordinaire Chris Fisk and her book Sneaky Veggies: How to Get Vegetables Under the Radar & Into Your Family.

Fighting Fear and City Hall

Fighting City Hall
Today, I went to an open hearing down at City Hall (what a beautiful building) regarding the New York Historical Society's plans to renovate their building (and construct a huge residential tower). You can learn more about that battle in my Mar. 9 post. The hearing was fascinating and the remarks by the community in opposition to the plan were inspired, insightful and spot on. Great insight into city (and real estate) politics.

Fighting Fear
We all have our demons, right? Currently, the one dogging me is 'fear.' I'm constantly fighting that little nasty. So tonight I attended a panel discussion called "Don't Panic: Living in a State of Fear" at the New School. The event was hosted by NY Salon, The Nation & The Economist, and the discussion rocked! I spoke with panelist Frank Furedi, professor at Univ. of Kent in Canterbury and author of numerous books on the effect of fear on society, primarily when it is politicized (for those who know me: okay, yes, I bought his book "Culture of Fear Revisited" just because it has a pic related to Bird Flu on the cover!) He believes that we have lost the capacity to fear with meaning, that a progressive society does NOT use fear to control the masses, and that politicizing fear is always a bad idea no matter how noble the cause.

I talked with him afterwards, and made reference to the fear I felt about moving to New York sans job. His comment? "Well, now, that is just brave!" An expert on fear called me brave!!!!

Science and Art on a Snowy New York Day

Amazing what this city offers.

This morning I went to the Jeff Wall exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Pretty extraordinary -- powerful staged gigantic photos that succeed in telling a story, and thus take you far outside yourself. Great stuff. Some of the work tends to be dark and broody. For fun, see if you can count the number of potential serial killers he has lurking about (kidding, kinda).

At the suggestion of my friend Ann, I became a MoMA member. This entitles me to free access to all exhibits and films, discounts on lectures, members-only previews, etc. Better yet, I can get friends in for $5 each. So if there is something you want to see, let me know first so I can save you from the normal $20 entry fee. Learn more on the exhibits, membership, etc. here.

MoMA has always been special to me. When I'd come up to NYC during my 20's, the museum would be my mecca. I'd make a bee line for it, see all the cool modern art, and then head off into the city. It is thrilling to have such easy access to it 15 or so years later.

This evening, it was up to Columbia University to hear Oliver Sacks, renowned neurologist and author of such books as "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat". His topic was on "Music and the Mind." He was incredible -- filled with good humor, fascinating case studies and sharp intelligence. A longtime fan of his work, I felt incredibly honored to hear his lecture. And it was FREE! Check out Columbia's Web site for details on visiting lecturers.

As I woke up to a light dusting of snow on the ground, making the beauty of Central Park just breathtaking, I had to again pinch myself that I am really living here. Gratitude shout out!