Great Wood Sculptor, Livio De Marchi
March 23rd, 2004
De Marchi is probably the most active and skilled wood worker that I have ever seen.
Livio De Marchi’s Web site showcases the beautiful and surprising shapes that wood, the most familiar of all elements, can be taken too. From clothing too a Ferrari that floats, this italian sculptor brings a modern flavor to the classic Pinocchio theme. His sculptures are dynamic pieces that take life and almost react to the elements - wooden shirts blow in the wind, flowers bend to gravity, books carry the great detail intended by it’s binders.
Bombings in Spain
March 12th, 2004
The recent bombing of a Spanish commuter train has truly shaken me up. I used to travel in and out of the same train station where the main blast occured.
I have never been in or around the World Trade Center. The attack of 9/11 was scarry, but not as close to me as the familiar Atocha train station in Madrid Spain and it’s subsequent bombing. I have ridden in and out of this train station on various occasions under various moods. Much like an old car can bring back memories, this Iberian transportation hub reminds me of good and difficult times of old as I passed in, out and around Madrid, Spain.
Most shockingly, I came across a story that interviewed spanish rescue workers. Remember the cell phone calls from folks that were stuck on the top floors of the World Trade Center? The cell towers this time were transmitting a truly disheartening tone. In the convention center turned morgue near by, the rescue workers would come across bodies that had cell phones in the pockets, ringing. Imagine the moments of distress on the other side of the line.
Fidel Castro posted a message of condolence to Don Juan Carlos (the King of Spain). There is no mention of Aznar (the Spanish President). I came across this letter during my hunt for more information on this bombing. Spain and Cuba have very deep cultural and historical ties that go back centuries. I thought I would add this because of Castro’s uncanny ability to politicize his speach at a truly subtle level. 45 years of “terrorism” seem to change the tone to a letter of empathy.
I should mention that it is March 11, 2004. Exactly 2 and a half years have passed since 9/11. There are six months left until September 11. I don’t think I will go out on that day or the 11th of any other up-coming month. I want to do my part though, so maybe I’ll shop on-line…