Research Grants and Giant Pimples

I've developed a red, volcanic pimple on the ride side of my chin. It's domineering and imperialistic, as though it's trying to colonize part of my face. I'm trying not to touch it. I think it probably developed from stress I was feeling last week, while procrastinating from doing my grant applications! Ah, well. It happens. I try to look at it with humor.

Below are links to the research grants that I'm currently applying for:
CIMO Fellowship
Finnish Cultural Foundation Grant
Each year during my doctoral studies, I will need to apply for grants and fellowships to help cover my living and research expenses.

Lisa's "Vestige" Series on Exhibit in Budapest, Hungary

In May and June of 2008, during an artist residency with the Hungarian Multicultural Center in Budapest, Hungary, I created a photographic series entitled, "Vestige".

In these images, the surreal relationship between a plastic uterus and a faceless woman is meant to create visual tension that represents the ongoing internal conflict I often experience as a single, middle-aged, unmarried woman with no children. For example, during most of my life, I have felt the need to maintain personal independence and mobility. At the same time, I wish to express the maternal, nurturing aspect of my personality (associated with the traditional concept of feminine identity). Special acknowledgment goes to my friend Eric Blackmore for his assistance with the photography.

In August of 2008, "Vestige" was on exhibit at the Mucius Gallery in Budapest. The photos are currently in a show at the Symbol Gallery in Budapest, Hungary, until the end of October, 2008. These gallery exhibitions are group shows that include work by other artists who have participated in the artist residency program at the Hungarian Multicultural Center in Budapest. Megan Randlett and Benjamin Page are among those artists who I befriended during the residency. To see their artwork, click on their names.

Fish, Sauna, and Good Conversation

Last night, Ana and I shared great conversation and a wonderful dinner of fresh fish, zucchini, potatoes, and lentil soup. Ana is a visiting artist here in the Art and Media program of University of Art and Design. She prepared the meal in her apartment while we discussed topics ranging from comparative politics to Ayurvedic foods.

Later, we relaxed in the sauna connected to her art studio. This was my first fully-heated sauna experience. Initially, the extremely hot, moist warm air seemed suffocating. The the act of breathing felt as though I was eating fire! But eventually my body adjusted itself to the situation. Much sweating, and then cold shower breaks, and then more sauna sweating. At one point, I felt like a human waterfall because my skin was literally pouring out liquid at a steady rate. After a few minutes, sitting in the sauna is quite relaxing and cathartic, since it warms your body and eliminates toxins.

Ana is intriguing to talk with, and she has a great sense of humor. She's traveled extensively, while creating art projects in different countries. Ana's art work involves the use of inflatable materials, and addresses issues of portable architecture, the body, and the environment. For info about Ana's work: www.geocities.com/richardbolai/rewakowiczopen.html

Ovarian Worries

At times, I think, "What the heck am I doing, with all of my incessant globe-trotting? At my age, I should be settling down and raising a family! Ovaries don't stay fresh forever!" Yes, these thoughts do grip my consciousness now and then, followed by the realization that I'm not even able to financially support a pet hamster right now. But then I look around and realize that I'm enjoying my life, and that I still have my little Russian doll.

Kokemäenjoki River

These images were taken in August and early September, along the Kokemäenjoki River in Pori. Beautiful, tranquil biking and hiking paths line the river. I'm so grateful to live near this natural sanctuary.

For a brief time, the trees were raging with red, orange, and yellow. Most leaves have fallen to the ground by now in this part of Finland. The advantage of bare trees is that now I can see the (previously hidden) small birds flitting through the branches!

Obama T-Shirt

My boyfriend Tommy sent me this great Obama campaign shirt from Florida. I've worn it in public here in Pori. One day, an elderly man passed me on the sidewalk, and stared at my T-shirt with very wide eyes.

Most younger people I've encountered so far don't seem comfortable discussing politics. Those Finns who have offered a political opinion expressed vehement support for Obama. I wish Finland could vote in our U.S. elections.

Elections on My Mind

In the midst of grant-writing, doctoral courses, reading about contemporary art, and learning Finnish, the upcoming U.S. elections are stewing in my mind. I've already faxed my overseas absentee ballot in from Finland. Though I'm having trouble getting the supplementary ballot to go through (for Florida Supreme Court Justice) ...the fax line is so busy with other overseas voters getting theirs in!

Late Night Thoughts

It's nearly midnight, and I'm still shuffling words around on my laptop, in an attempt to solidify a proposal for a student grant application. It's time for sleep. More soon...
Don't worry. There will be photos and other fun stuff. I've been in Finland for two months now. It's about time I post something up!