2023 Reflection - Three Things We Love
Reflecting on 2023, we take a look back at some of our favorite artists in music, literature, and art. Join us as we delve into beloved creatives and discover how artists Noah Kahan, the Black Pumas, Anne Berest, and Guadalupe Maravilla, in their own unique way, contribute to the practice of mindfulness.
Harmonious Notes of Noah Kahan and Black Pumas
Credit: Patrick McCormack / ATO Records
In Q4 of 2023, Noah Kahan, a rising star in the music industry, had his SNL debut AND was nominated for the prestigious Grammy Best New Artist award. Also in 2023, the Black Pumas seem to have exploded onto the music scene. They captivated audiences across the United States with many sold out shows. As we immerse ourselves in these musical acts, it’s clear that music is not merely an auditory experience; it is a pathway to mindfulness. The rhythm and lyrics serve as a meditative guide, encouraging all of us to be present in the moment and appreciate the beauty of sound.
And, if you haven’t listened to either artist that’s even better because when we listen to new music it increases the plasticity of our brains making it easier to remember things, learn new skills, and adapt to change.
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Literary Escapades with Anne Berest's "The Postcard"
A book club introduced us to the stunning and engrossing work of Anne Berest. We loved her autobiographical novel, "The Postcard." Berest artfully weaves a narrative that explores her family's experiences before, during and after WWII. Beyond the historical context, the novel invites readers to reflect on their own lives and family connections. Berest's versatile talent as both an actress and a writer shines through, showcasing the power of storytelling as a tool for memorializing, self-reflection and mindfulness. Other works by Berest, such as "How to be Parisian," add a delightful layer of humor and charm to her repertoire.
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Artistic Enlightenment with Guadalupe Maravilla
Credit: Steve Benisty
Our friends at the School of the Art Institute introduced us to the transformative work of Guadalupe Maravilla last year, and we couldn’t be more grateful. His collections serve as a visual representation of self-healing and forms of self-care. He encouraged admirers to engage in contemplation and introspection. An immigrant from Salvador, Maravilla weaves his experience being displaced while fleeing the Salvadoran Civil War and the associated mental challenges throughout his work. This was evident at a recent visiting artists program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Maravilla is a big advocate for mindfulness, illustrating the profound connection between creativity and inner healing.
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