Welcome to The Art Idiot
An introduction to the publication & a taste of what's to come
Welcome to The Art Idiot! As my magazine transitions into a newsletter, I want to share a snip of the editor’s note that appeared in my thesis so that you, my audience, are able to better understand the driving purpose as to why I am so passionate about this project and its future.
“The manner in which Art is discussed varies greatly, and through this independent publication, The Art Idiot seeks to make the conversation surrounding Art more inclusive and accessible. The versatility of a magazine (now newsletter) is what makes it the best mode of education for Art idiots like us. Through magazines/zines/newsletters, creatives are capable of expressing themselves, showcasing their work, and ultimately revealing this universal consciousness that creators, and critics, embody.
The inception of The Art Idiot came from a place of frustration and a feeling of inadequacy, but it was also inspired by a passion for accessibility and art. In my experience, I have found that learning is made easier, and subconscious, when presented uniquely and creatively. As we age through the American schooling system, classrooms lose color-- mostly due to lack of educational funding-- but as they lose color, learning loses its fun. With the ability to create something that enables me to return to the fun while simultaneously creating the fun for others, I felt as if an arts and culture magazine (newsletter) could make the impact I desired.
The Art Idiot hopes to make other idiots feel found and then feel like an idiot no longer.”
Featured Films
Click on the title of each film to be redirected to the trailer.
In theaters…
Everything Everywhere All At Once - 4.5/5 stars
Currently, this film holds the highest ever rating on Letterboxd, kicking Parasite and The Godfather to second place. This comedic sci-fi, multi-verse, coming-of-age film is one for all. Although my nana struggled with the “silliness,” of the plot execution, it would be a shame to miss this theatrical release. Go see it.
HBO Max…
The Batman - 5/5 stars
As of April 18th, The Batman is now available to watch on your small, undeserving television screen. While this film's cinematic, theatrical experience made all the difference, the story, acting, and editing will hopefully hold through when viewed at home. Warning: watch this one at night.
Netflix…
Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé - 4.5/5 stars
This past weekend was the anniversary of the famous, cultural shifting performance “Beychella.” Similar to what I aspire my creations to be, every aspect of this performance and film is done with pure, genuine, and intricate intention. Truthfully, I have the most difficult time describing all that this film embodies, but, to keep it brief, there are few films I view at home that hold my attention for the entirety of its 137-minute runtime. Keep a glass of water close by as my mouth often dried out from how often my jaw dropped.
Amazon Prime Video…
Master - 3/5 stars
While racism, Black trauma, and slavery are film topics I typically avoid, the horror approach to these themes has proven to be the avenue that is most effective and enjoyable. Although Master reminded me a bit too much of the University of Chicago (no shade), Regina Hall’s performance and Mariama Diallo’s direction made this one worth the watch.
Real Life Recommendation
My apologies to the non-locals; I encourage you to leave a comment about art things in your city for others to see.
Current Exhibit in Chicago…
If you are reading from Chicago, I encourage you to take the time to visit the Art Institute to see the recently opened exhibit Desire Lines created by Igshaan Adams. I first experienced Desire Lines a few weeks ago, and there is something about art that surrounds you (literally) that forces you to pay attention and ponder it (probably because it’s all around you). It is evident that there was a significant amount of time dedicated to these works which further contributes to the powerful message and story being told. Check it out.
Some Sound To Go…
The Art Idiot - A Master’s Thesis Mixtape
I present the soundtrack of (some) songs that inspired me, resonated with my emotions, narrated my experience, served as an homage to the loved ones supporting me, and decorated the air while I worked throughout 2020 - 2021.
POLLEN - Spotify Curated Playlist
When I first came across this playlist in 2018, it had a few thousand followers, and now it’s up to over 1,000,000! POLLEN is my go-to mix for when I need familiar sounds or something new, and it’s significantly more reliable than my consistently wretched Discover Weekly. Give it a listen!
*Chef’s Kiss*