Poems, Sculptures, Pathways, and Murals for live/work condos

Recently, I was commissioned to write a poem and perform at the official opening for an art installation at a new mixed use development for the City of Scottsdale Public Art. It was short notice because the original poet involved in the project had to drop out. I was worried about trying to come up with something worthwhile in only one week, but then I had to admit that even if I was asked four months in advance, I would have probably waited until that last week to get started, anyway.

So I agreed to the challenge and went out to walk around and investigate the SOHO development in Scottsdale, which incorporated beautiful murals by artist Lauren Lee (who has created some of my favorite murals around Phoenix), lithocrete pathways by Texas artist Leticia Huerta, and these building block sculptures from Colorado artist Christopher Weed.

Although, I had more than enough anxiety leading up to the event, everything turned out great, I had a wonderful time at the opening, the audience was very receptive, a few folks asked to buy my books on the spot, and I was proud to be associated with the work of these artists.

It was a good reminder that it's okay to go out of my comfort zone every once in awhile and see what happens.