SistahCraft

All This, And Knitting Too?

I May Have To Give Up Sleeping

On a clear day/ you can see all of Brook-lyn. Deno's Wonder Wheel, Coney Island, Brooklyn. This past weekend, the Melting Pot's dance party, "Sandcastles On The Boardwalk" was fabulous! Many thanks to DJ Kervyn Mark, for helping me and Mr. K burn up a lot a calories. This free event occurs again on July 28th. All pics enlarge.

Carpeted In Inspiration

The Great American Cover-Up is on at the American Folk Art Museum, until September 9th. All I can say is WOW! YOU HAVE TO GET THERE! On display are magnificent examples of rugs for the floor, table and bed from about the past 200 years. I tell you it's amazing what you can be done when one has time, no television, nor a million events to go to. The rugs were displayed in chronological order by method, starting with yarn sewing and shirring, then onto applique´, embroidery, and hooking. Of note––sculptural pile rugs of Waldoboro, Maine, a monumental applique´d carpet, and a knitted circular carpet in garter stitch by Elvira Curtis Hulett, c.1805-1895. This large, powerfully visual rug is notable––to me––for its harmonious variety of color, which is no small feat, considering Elvira was a member of the Hancock Shaker community. Although the Millenium laws (1821, revised in 1845) allowed for the use of carpets, albeit of plain design, hers was rather adventurous, as you can see; the commentary suggested that the rug was placed in an area frequented by worldly visitors. I like to think that sister Elvira's vision in executing this rug, was prophetic, as I was very, very happy, to be one of those worldly visitors.

Men-tal Refreshment For Everyone

July 12th is the opening of J. Chapmyn's Black Man Rising, a new choreoplay celebrating strength, wisdom and fortitude of black manhood––rising above expectations, establishing a sense of self, and honoring the ancestors. Directed by my acquaintance, the talented Patricia R. Floyd––you GO, sistah!––it's at the Players Theatre. For more info, go to Theater Mania. Don't delay, as this play is only on until the 28th.

Stretchin' Out in Jersey

Yeah, yeah, yeah! From the 26th through the 29th of this month, the second annual Lincoln Park Music Festival will have folks from both sides of the Hudson twirling! This is three, count 'em, three action packed days with vendors, live performances, art and music––House, Gospel and old skool hip hop––Biz Markie, baby! Joaquin "Joe" Clausell, and Tony Humphries are two of the deck dons that are getting me there. It's also a pretty place to do needlework, if you need to take a break from all the excitement. Now, I know you jaded New Yorkers, think that the State of New Jersey is really another country, but it's not. This festival is just minutes from Newark Penn Station, on the southern end of Broad Street (near Newark Symphony Hall); so be there, or be square!

H-O-U-S-E, Has Finally Come To Harlem!

For way too long, rap music has dominated the dance scene in Harlem, while us poor house fans have had to contend with hearing tired old dance music, usually at the beginning of the evening when the spot is empty. Now maybe, we have a home. I Heart House Music Sundays, is happening at Shrine, a newly opened African world music and multi-media venue, that promises to be the hip scene uptown, from 7 to 12 midnight. I haven't been there yet, but as my other mixologist of the moment and house fan, Jose is there––that's a good sign; it's free, so get out there, bring your musical instruments, support and move your body!

Well folks, it's time. I'm not going to give up sleeping, tonight; I'm looking forward to flying in the air––my dreams of late. But coming shortly in post land will be––London! All the news that was fit to knit!

Skipping Across the Pond––News Before I Break Out Again!

When I Wasn't Knitting…

Before––In late April to early May––major neglect               In June––after pruning and fertilizing

I became "The Guerrilla Gardener of Bronx Park East" (Mr. K's expression), devoted to caring for the horticulture of mine and my neighbors' buildings. If there are any rosarians out there, please help me identify this Old Garden Rose; it smells terrific! (all pics enlarge).

All You Need Is Love (And Knitting)

Happy World Wide Knit In Public Day! I hope everyone felt the collective Morse code of love, coming from the clicking needles of knitters all over the world!  Sit N' Knit, NYC  gathered at Sheep Meadow, in Central Park, doing their bit to encourage more love to emanate from our hearts to our hands and outwards. Hola, ladies! I'm happy nature was on your side today; but in case she changed her mind dearest Anne-Marie, there was always the number six train, tee hee.

As for me––busy as usual, but I can no longer work on this computer without feeling guilty about posting. Therefore, I'm going to take a minute to get away from this project, and engage in some productive procrastination. And boy, has there been some news…

Feet Don't Fail Me Now!

Despite the wet and cold weather that confronted the Dance Parade, where we left off back in May, folks came on through with the energy of purpose; check out The Melting Pot's link for photos and info on what's to come…

Or Go…Coney Island's Last Season!

The Melting Pot's Sandcastle's Summer Series Dance Party has fabulously started with a bang! The next party will take place again on Saturday, June 23 from 2 pm to 10 pm; as the name implies, they embrace everyone (even kids––remember, dancing improves coordination). So, grab your needles, snacks and even your non-knitting friends (they can sit on the blanket and mind your work while you get your step on. On the serious tip, though––if you are either traveling to NYC or live here, and haven't been to this landmark amusement park––this is your last chance. A Real estate developer is gonna erase part of our city's history, so please take the time to read The Village Voice's article about this fight. It's getting ugly.

We've Gone Native!

(Excuse the  artsy-looking photo; we're eeking out the last of the light. Clockwise form left; Shameka; Njoya (Harlem Knitting Circle), Saunielle (Saunshine), Sherry (Chronicles of She), Hope (Hopie Knits); not included in photo––myself and Zenobia Bailey).
 

Last week, I was graced with the presence of the abundantly talented Saunielle (of Saunshine fame), for a four day visit (do y'all really walk a lot here? I never even think about it). In her honor, a cadre of us got together for a Knit n' Sip, at my fave, fave, fave, eatery––Brian Washington Palmer's Native Restaurant. This Harlem melting pot just gets better and better! A big shout out and thanks to the dashing Delano, who hooked us up with the best seats and service; he's become inspired to learn to knit and crochet, so brothers, I'ma add one more to the ranks. You know, he's so creative, I can't wait to see what he starts making. And, a shout out to the mixer of the moment, Jose´, for providing us with drinks that dropped our attitudes, but not our stitches! And Brian––you're simply the best.

  On the left; Chante´, Njoya, and Saunielle. On the right, fiber artist Zenobia Bailey, featured in the first anniversary issue of Black Purl Magazine.

Now, About That Pond

I am being whisked off by Mr. K to London for a week, leaving tomorrow night! To be honest, I wasn't quite as excited about it, as I was about sewing Swarovski crystals and bugle beads on a silk tape dress I'm working on for a boutique, jaded designer that I am. But then my uterus hi-jacked my body, for a few days, taking my focus with it. Oh well.

I'm now very excited, as this will be an inspirational trip for me, despite being in a nation of people, I was told, who all behave like John Cleese. My itinerary is lined up, and no, I'm not buying any yarn; I'm looking for oddities (like John Cleese).

Okay, time to take another Panadeine, and then pack. I'll wave at y'all tomorrow, before my flight. Any suggestions––holla!

Finish Up, The Distraction, Is Starting!

I Love New York In Spring! How 'Bout You?

(the window of the Sanrio store, in Times Square; for my girl, Jen, Da Purse Ho. All pics enlarge).

New York is in bloom, and it ain't just flowers! So, if you are between projects, or bored with your current one, put it down––and move your feet instead! The first annual New York Dance Parade, will take place on Saturday, May 19th! Join over six thousand other dancers, floats and Dj's representing every step from Ballet to Zydeco. This parade is a true celebration of my city's diversity, and a response to the ever-more stringent cabaret laws. Given the obscene number of bars here, maybe if people danced more, they would drink less; alcohol interferes with your rythmn. The event is for all ages, groups, gender preferences, races––everybody, dammit, who likes to dance, or go to dance performances, or just move. So register, grab your stilts, tap shoes, flats or sneakers, and join me, Mr. K, and the rest of us (we'll be part of the House Collective).

My knitting brothers––are you in a stitch, too? Well…

Billie's Black, a sexy little restaurant, is presenting Black Friday: The Adonis Party, a sexy little cocktail party on Friday, May 18th, at 9pm. I'll probably pop my head in with Paul Eaddy for a minute, to catch up with some friends––the copiously creative painter Gregory Grey, Tom Martin (who was excellent, in the TWAS production of Hamlet), Tony D. (please, put that mohair sweater down. You can finish it in September, honey; come out and have a glass), Murphy Heyliger (co-owner of Harlemade. I'll make sure you get your sweater), the gifted Kenneth Lee Roberson, and many more…last night was the men's night at Pier 2110. I heard that three weeks ago, it was packed. Now, there's about 30 or so fellas. Hmmph. Come on now, support!

You Won't Get These From NetFlix

This Saturday, May 12th, The National Museum of African-American Cinema, is having a rare video and DVD fair, taking place at the museum gift shop. There will be over 5,000 different titles for sale, including some rare all-Black cast movies from 1928 -1950, documentaries and recent releases. Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building, 163 West 125th Street @ 7th Avenue; museum gift shop - 9th floor; from 10am to 7pm (but you better get there early, as it's gonna be crowded). Proceeds will go to the museum's building fund. For more info, contact Gregory Javan Mills, 212-749-5298.

It's Tea Time!

(This wonderful image, is by Florence Ward, ca. 1950-1970; children's catalog, Library of Congress;      LC-USZ62-122105 (45)).

The Harlem Knitting Circle is having it's 2nd annual afternoon tea party to celebrate Mother's Day, on Saturday, May 12th, from 11am to 3pm. Come out to knit and crochet, while enjoying some delightful food and music (and trust me, these sisters can turn out some fabu fare). Admission is a dish to share (purchased food is welcome, so don't be intimidated). Dress up please, no slacks allowed. The George Bruce Branch Library, 518 West 125th St.(btw Amsterdam Ave & Broadway);  (212) 662-9727 or e-mail, at george_bruce@nypl.org. I'll be checking in.

One Last Thing

That's it for now folks, I'm beat––but I'll leave y'all with a lil' sumptin' sumptin,' just to show that I haven't spent all my time, running the streets.
My Conflicting Cables cardigan looks better on me, than Lola here, but my hair isn't done; tomorrow is another day. Made from Berella "Whistler," a too soft merino wool, (thank the ancestors for pumice stones), it took me only two months––seriously––to knit. I needed a replacement for my leather jacket. The yarn came from Smiley's, purchased at the store. The cost, including buttons––$36.00USD. See, knitting does save you money; that's the frugal fabulousness of it.

A Minute To Shoot The Breeze

Forget That Tome…

(This, is couture crochet. It is not only the technique, but how well its adaptation was thought out, that makes this shoe arresting. In the end (and it is all about the end result, isn't it), it is more important to understand the power of the medium, than just how to make the stitches. Yes, there have been crocheted shoes out there, but not like this. John Galliano for Christian Dior, spring '07. Runway photo, Marcio Madeira. And a big shout out to the artisan who crocheted the shoe fabric).

And Speaking of little Knots

My catch up designing and knitting has had me tied down to the fast track of life. Which was okay, but now the end of my two week vacation is speeding toward me, express-train style. But with a bit of this news in, I'll be able to––rest my fingers and move my feet instead!

New York's premier jungle and drum n' bass party has returned! Thursday night, a legendary triumvirate will spin at The Sullivan Room, NYC. DJ SS is one of the three, and the man of the hour for me. Go to Direct Drive for details, and wear something crocheted–-it's an appreciative crowd!

 

 

Ancestors, Take Care of My Friend

(DJ Adam Goldstone. This is a picture of one of my longest and closest friends, taken by Mr. K, (Ian Keldoulis) at Burning Man, where they went together for the first time, for Ian's birthday, last year. All pics enlarge).

Ancestors!

I met Adam as a young man, at Richard's club The Choice, through ambient maestro and longtime acquaintence, John Hall. I was slightly baffled at his attraction to me. As much as I was out and about downtown, I was not a particularly major part of the downtown scene; my allegiance to the Bronx and Harlem streets, was––and still is––a part of my identity.

But Madam, I'm Adam…

It was the pure, unadulterated sincerity of his friendship, that won my heart. And as such, despite a decade or so difference in our ages, we did damn near everything but sleep together. But when it came to catching some sleep after a night out, when the Bronx was to far to go?––Adam was the one man whose house I could sleep in unmolested, although his couch did not endear me to mid-century furniture.

My memories of Adam are not so much memories of downtown club life, although I attended as many of his parties as possible––Robot's, Destination Lounge, Don Hill's, Filter 14, the Frying Pan, P.S. 1, Sapphire, East Side Company, Movida, Speakeasy, Love, private parties, and on and on.

They are of treasured moments.

Not having a fearful nor prejudiced bone in his body (and not just with sisters, to qualify), He allowed me to take him into my world to dance, the private world of some of Harlem's major after-hours––Doll's, The Uptown Garage, The Warehouse (Bronx), and the one and only Pumkin's––to experience  jazz, rap, Latin, R & B and uptown house. He was so old school, folks thought he'd been around forever. Laced in the illest threads, and armed with a fierce sense of humor and wit, he was respected––better than that––liked. Best, was that his musical taste jibed with all of ours.

Now, he wasn't totally no angel and ancestors, you know he could get on my nerves. But he was one of the few, who could work this sister's last nerve, and not get cussed out. That's friendship.

Many a morning, I helped lug his heavy records up them damn stairs at 5 a.m., while complaining that my ass was too old for this; his wisecrack about my old ass, almost made me fall down the stairs with laughter.

I received the call on Tuesday.

I caught the flu, working the door on an unseasonably cool, Memorial Day party, he gave at the Frying Pan for the grand total of a coupla' dollars profit, which we spent on breakfast. I'd get upset at how talented he was and how begrudgingly clubs sometimes dealt with him. I was sure glad the kids across the pond helped to keep him afloat. We used to talk about how the changing demographic in New York, combined with the new social conservatism, was turning the club scene into straight, segregated, model and bottle joints.

Cash rules everything around me/ green!/ git' the money/ dolla' dolla' bill y'all. Jimmy Spicer '83'

When I had my hip replacement 20 months ago, he came to visit me, with my locks all over my head and a tube stuck in my neck. We hollered about my deliberately scaring the visitors when I walked him to the elevator.

I started this blog in the spring of 2005 as part of my recovery. Adam's parties was one of the first I'd started announcing––"the don of the decks." I swear, I his parties were the only ones that you could bring any of your friends to, because he spun a disk for everybody! His Latin vinyl, was as good, or better than some of the Spanish spots––yeah Babs, even Willie's Steak House. And his classic house knowledge, put other folks to shame. Who else could bring in D C LaRue for East Side Stories?

Ya' know––Adam was truly connected to the mosaic of the City; in these parochial times, for me, that's golden. It means you have joined the rest of the planet, and you don't consider yourself something else.

I was very impressed with Adam, because he wasn't very impressed with himself. He was a stand up guy.
(This picture was taken last year, in the town of Gerlach, Nevada, on the dawn of Mr. K's birthday)

In keeping with this being a knitting blog, my final post mentioning him, was when he brought to my attention, The Madam DeFarge Knitting Circle that was meeting at Burning Man. The last time I saw him physically, was at a mutual friend Micky Hohl's benefit where he was spinning music. He was sooo looking forward to going out to the festival. I'm glad he arrived.

I heard, that when you get there, they say "welcome home."

Ancestors, take good care of him, now that his place in the universe is with y'all.

Hambone, Hambone, Where Ya' Been?

Round the World and Back Again! (At Least, That's What It Felt Like)

(Every Friday, for the rest of the month, at  3:00 p.m., you can receive free Crochet lessons, in the beautiful new Bronx Library Center. Taught by A.J. Sister Black, all participants will learn to make a hat and scarf. By the way, their craft book section is very impressive, and the adult reading––and knitting and crochet––terrace, boasts a panoramic view, and is worth the trip alone).

Boy! Have I sure been AWOL, huh?

Well to be honest, I had felt like I had run out of relevant things to say, and became uninspired. Therefore, I decided to just go out and live, for a while, cause' sometimes you gotta do that, in order to have something interesting to write about. I know, I know, there's knitting content, but not all of my knitting is eventful enough to blog about. Really.

There's my private label work, but a significant amount of it, last month, involved negotiation, and I'm not at liberty to blog about client work like that. I had to resort to b-i-tiching over Margarita's at Native, in Harlem, in the evenings––whose mini-lounge in the corner, gives you a nice place to knit as well.

And finally, "at the end of the day," as the cliche´ goes, knitting takes time and so does blogging––and, guess which medium won out?

But now I'm back, and having lived for a while––folks there's a lot to say, and I will bring it on, in rapid-fire succession, for I certainly haven't been idle!

(The crocheted check swatch pictured, is one of the latest additions to the library).

Summer Has Hit The City!

Ah yeah! The Melting Pot NYC has revived two beautiful events again this year, providing the perfect venues to bring your blanket, picnic, knit, crochet and dance! This Saturday, it's the Dance Party on the Coney Island boardwalk, and Sunday, The Soul Summit Music Festival, in Fort Green Park, Brooklyn is in effect! 

Both of these events take place in the afternoon, and are friendly to everybody! Check out Fort Green!

It's a shame there are no food and craft vendors this year; the park is getting a spruce-up to look more attractive to potential home-buyers, who desire to live across from it (so, say some folk). But on the silver-lining note, maybe it will give a few of the craft vendors more time to perfect their skills.

Whoops, look at the time! I gotta get some sleep. No more late night posting. I'm back working at the paper––fall season has hit me.

Tomorrow, I'll return with some real knitting content, and more news!

And, best of all, I'll start catching up with you all too! Miss y'all much. Later.