ribbon cutting

"It is my hope that the Cool Globes exhibit will spur other innovative programs and solutions to the challenges we face as a city and nation." --  Mayor Richard M. Daley

That's him.  The guy way far away at the podium, Mayor Richard M. Daley himself.  As you can see, the place was packed.  I tried to get closer for a better photo, but I couldn't wedge myself through the crowds.  So I stayed cool in the shade on the front steps of the Field Museum taking in the whole festival environment.

Today has been delightfully overwhelming.  A breakfast for the artists, music, speeches, free goodies, and lots of conversations with the press.  It will be interesting to catch tonight's news as it seems every station in the city had sent a camera crew.

Big Blue is looking great.  She has survived two torrential rains since her repair last Friday and not a problem in sight.  I watched as hoards of local school children touched her. 

"Oooh, it's so rough.  You'd think it'd be soft."  "Wow!  It's all knitted!"  One preschooler grabbed hold and swung from her using all she had.  Not a problem!!! Big Blue took it in her stride.  Oh yeah!  I felt like doing a jig.

Instead I opted for the "oh-so-cool-and-casual" pose.

Meeting up with friends made while working on Big Blue was the best part.  We formed a sort of family or alliance, each helping the other.  This is Carol Lou Giannasi with her husband.  You need to see Carol's globe.  It is a gorgeous mosaic of recycled / resused / found objects sparkling like a gem in the noon day sun. 

I won't show you Cathi and Paul Bouzide's globe.  You will have to look for it.  But I will give you a hint - it matches her hat.

To complete the morning's festivities, my daughter and I had to have lunch at this local institution.   It's on Michigan Avenue, approximately a 1/2 mile south of the Art Institute of Chicago.  It's located at the base of the Fine Arts Building which is filled with artist studios, dance centers, etc.  If you've never been, go.  The food is diner delicious with deco decor. 

      

Comments

[rachel]

I just sent you an email but it didn't seem to work right. Please send me your email address so I can send you a photo of your knitted globe. It showed up the local news!