You Call This Living

A cheeseburger deluxe by Maira Kalman, from The Principles of Uncertainty

Intrepid assistant Mike and I took a few hours off from our 20x200 toil this evening and went to Maira Kalman's opening at Julie Saul and God, I wish that all openings could be so nice. The heavy rain that came earlier in the evening washed away the throngs of hipsters (or maybe kept them indoors) so 22nd St. was nearly deserted. As we walked into the building, I wondered whether I had the wrong night, it wouldn't be the first time. But stopping at the sixth floor, the elevator opened to a din of voices and the air was warm with the presence of people.

The gallery itself was crowded enough to feel that buzz of being somewhere, but not overwhelmingly itchy and get me out of here even if I have to fall through the floor hot. The attendees were a perfect mix of people who loved Maira, people who worship her (I saw eyes shining with excitement upon meeting her, and really who could blame the owner of those eyes?) and people who work with her and I imagine inspire her and everyone there to wish her well.

A painting of Louise Bourgeois' sink by Maira Kalman, from Principles of Uncertainty

Principles of Uncertainty is a wonderful show, based on the yearlong series of the same name that Maira did for Times Select, now free to be viewed online by a select many, including you. (Go look.) And it's also a delightful book that you should buy.

I have the book, but oh I would so like to buy myself one of those gouache paintings hanging on Ms. Saul's walls. They are fantastic - sweet and playful and full of joy and humor and entirely authentic. And that is so very much the thing for me, the authenticity. No posture or pose, just an energy for living and for seeing everything around you and imagining those things you can't.

Comments

[Joe]

Just came back from this Kalman show and I immediately ordered The Principles of Uncertainty book. I had to order online because the gallery's copies sold out last night!

[jenni]

oh dear, how much were they?? I love that sink.