...look to Public Building for artistry

(A writing assignment: Check Public Buildings for artists and artwork – describe in a short story)

I’ve been to my City Hall many times, and they display no artwork in the lobby, ‘tho there are some in the Council Meeting Chambers. Nor do the Post Offices now display the photos of Top Ten – most wanted criminals, that is (those pictures always fascinated me as to how these people with their pictures displayed everywhere, could be so mean and get by with that for so long!).

Back to artwork. The main Library has some that are by various artists, and many children’s works. I find these latter joyful to see, but not exciting (I’d had a few my own “youthful” artwork hung inside the main entrance to the St. Louis Art Museum – one floor above Egyptian artifacts, including a mummy which WAS exciting!)

Where I can find some really nice artwork - pastels, watercolors, and oils, etc. – is at my favorite sandwich shop: Boo Boo’s. They specialize in soups, sandwiches, salads, and really lovely artworks of local artists. No particular artist, or their artwork, is featured; as with the menu, you are offered a variety.  One watercolor that caught my eye was of a back yard that depicted a scene of my youth: white Adirondack lawn chairs, colorful flowers in abundance, a shade tree, and – hanging from the clothes line – clean, white bed-sheets billowing in the breeze. I regret not purchasing this work.

To the ladies who own this sandwich shop, I would give many thanks. Not only do they fill my needs of healthy, delicious foods (my favorite is the combo of Chicken Salad on whole wheat bread, fresh spinach leaves, – in  lieu of lettuce – bean sprouts, and sliced avocado, along with a cup of most-rich-and-creamy Cheese Broccoli soup, and carrot chips. Now THAT’S a meal!), but they are satisfying the needs of my mind and soul for really wonderful artwork.

If you find this a bit rambling more on food than artwork, know that it’s very close to lunchtime for me –  the “bod” is hungry!  And, although I do enjoy still-life artwork of foods…well…the real thing is much more appealing to me.

© Jackie (Micke) Jinks, April 2005