TEXTILES AS ART
Woven Histories: Textiles and Modern Abstraction (MoMA)
We headed to the Museum of Modern Art specifically to see a members’ preview of some delicate flower paintings. That exhibit was unexpectedly closed, so we opted for the textile and fabric exhibit I had also noted. Featuring 150 pieces, this exhibit spans creative works from the early 20th century to the present from Europe and around the world. It focuses on textiles or fabric as art, not just craft.
I was also drawn to some of the wall hangings and the various weaving techniques.
VIEWING: WEST BANK DESTRUCTION
No Other Land (streaming available)
Winner of this year’s Academy Award for Best Documentary, No Other Land, is a graphic and personal account of the ongoing destruction and demolition of West Bank villages by Israeli soldiers from 2019-2023. The West Bank on the Jordan River is one of two territories that comprise Palestine. Filmed and told mainly from the perspective of Palestinian activist Basel Adra and Israeli journalist Yuval, it is heartrending, upsetting, and powerful.
Over decades, Israeli soldiers have routinely targeted these mountainous villages (Masafer Yatta), bulldozing homes and a new school, threatening residents, and shooting at those who get in the way. Residents are essentially captive in their villages; they need special permits to enter Israel and often don’t own cars, also subject to restrictions. Basel Adra’s daring in shooting these scenes live is admirable, while the watching the tentative relationship between Basel and Yuval develop into a genuine friendship is heartening. Highly recommended!
DINING: YET ANOTHER ITALIAN RESTAURANT?
Il Gradino (Lexington near 62nd)
While out walking, we happened on Il Gradino and decided to check it out. The reviews were very good and so we booked. It’s a small space with white tablecloths and polished service. We began with two tempting specials, fried stuffed zucchini blossoms for me and artichokes Jewish style for the Chief Penguin.
For entrees, I had a lovely chicken cutlet saltimbocca style with asparagus spears topping the prosciutto and cheese, while the CP enjoyed a large bowl of linguini cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper.) It was a lovely meal with some different Italian dishes. Another addition for our list of favorites!
Note: All photos ©JWFarrington (some rights reserved.) Header photo is a detail from “Shape-Up” (1976-77) by Alan Shields.
