Art book giving at Arcana Books
No. 23 — Seen Library — art book edition at Arcana Books with AJ Girard
I’ve hosted many book givings but this was the first of its kind and one that took me out of my comfort zone. My inspiring friend and art curator AJ Girard, whose mission is to make art accessible to those it has often excluded, took me around Arcana Books one afternoon, eagerly sharing some of his favorite books — ones that center historically excluded artists whose work conveys impactful messages — sometimes more effectively than words can.
Being able to share the themes and inspiration found in each book (with handwritten clues, of course!) with such a thoughtful and open group of people — many complete strangers just looking to connect over a shared love — gave me a much deeper appreciation and understanding of art and helped me see my own relationship to it… so much so that it brought tears to my eyes.
I’m constantly so blown away by the beautiful people I have the privilege of getting to know and the vulnerable conversations had through moments like these. Thank you always to everyone who signed up and showed up (and the many more who couldn’t join but wanted to!), to AJ for being such a thoughtful co-host, to Arcana for so kindly providing the space for such a beautiful afternoon, to Kollo for always being so generous with their delicious beverages, and to Adidas for making this gathering completely free and accessible to those who wanted to join. Grateful. So grateful.
