“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”
― Pablo Picasso
This past week we were thrilled to attend the Pageant of the Masters performance, sponsored by the Laguna Festival of the Arts. This annual show celebrates artists and their artistry in a a one-of-a-kind way, bringing historic paintings and sculptures to life with choreographed, live displays, highlighted by an orchestral accompaniment.
This year the theme of the pageant was Made in America:
"In the 2021 Pageant of the Masters, audiences will meet the artists – revolutionaries, innovators, dreamers – who not only made this country their home, but let their creativity be inspired by the freedoms upon which this nation was founded. Through their lives, artworks and voices, a compelling portrait of our artists will come to life with all the theatrical magic that makes the Pageant a one-of-a-kind, must-see summer tradition.
Asked to reveal some of the artists whose stories and works will be included in “Made in America,” Pageant Director Diane Challis Davy shared several, many of them acknowledged masters of American art: Winslow Homer, Mary Cassatt, Norman Rockwell, Daniel Chester French, Luis Jimenez and John Nieto. She continued, “We’re going to ‘flesh out’ and ‘paint’ more detailed portraits of the individual artists. I want to make these artists, regardless of their time periods, REAL and identifiable for the audience.”
What an evening under the stars it was! We arrived at the amphitheater early to enjoy the artists' exhibits in the pavilion area. Laguna Beach is known as an artist colony and this evening, painters, photographers and sculptors showed off their wares with well deserved pride!
The colors were in full bloom at the exhibits! Love the breathtaking details...
I know my pictures can't do the beautiful artwork justice, but I wanted to give you a peek at some of the pieces that caught my fancy. Truly incredible work and so inspiring. Unfortunately pictures of the paintings and sculptures featured in the performance were prohibited. I can tell you, we were captivated by the brilliant renditions displayed during this evening under the stars. I'm so grateful the pageant was able to continue again this year. It was an amazing night that won't be forgotten.
Wishing you a week filled with wonderment... It's Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:
Who's ready to read some scary tales?
The countdown is on for the release of TANGLED WEBS! Bibiana Krall and I are so excited for this release, we hope you enjoy our six haunting tales that take you places (and oh, the places you will go! 😲😱🤪 Thanks to everyone who has pre-ordered our collection. We will be doing a giveaway or two for the lucky readers who pre-order our book. Just let us know via DM or email if you have and we'll put you in the drawing. Some really neat stuff could be coming your way--perfect for #Halloween...More #spooky news to follow!
A clever whodunnit this week from the writers of Twitter...
Author Sara Rosett, Murder at Archly Manor (High Society Lady Detective Book 1), 5⭐
Olive Belgrave is finding the job search in 1923 London is not as lucrative as she hoped for a lady in her position. Her funds are running low as her career opportunities are repeatedly dashed. When an urgent, family request is received, Olive finds herself faced with an unexpected, paying assignment---investigate the background of of the suspicious suitor engaged to her cousin, Violet.
Olive and her cousins attend a glamorous, costume bash at the country estate of a flamboyant friend, placing her in the midst of the who's who in the party set. As she sets out to uncover the details of fiancé Alfred's past, she learns that all is not what it seems. When a deadly accident occurs at the party, Olive suddenly is in the middle of a murder investigation. Will she unearth the clues in time to expose the killer amongst them?
Deception, glamor and intrigue run rampant in this clever whodunnit. A fun read for lovers of cozy mysteries with a 1920's, society ambiance. I look forward to reading more of the cases of the delightful Miss Belgrave!
Next up in the #reading queue:
And the #BOOKEM discussions continue...
Bibiana, Amy and I are still noodling on ideas as to our next steps with #BOOKEM. We truly appreciate the ideas and support many of you have shown. Hopefully the path forward will decide to come out of hiding, LOL. Stay tuned, XO
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. If your travel plans include a visit to southern California, I highly recommend the Pageant of the Masters performance. It's an enchanting evening and visual treat! Gemma and Rikkhe approve 💖👑
