Welcome to my first Field Notes. Let’s get some introduction out of the way.

What are Artist Dates?

I’ve been going on what I used to call Solo Dates for as long as I can remember. Whether it’s going to a concert or a museum, I make it a point to do something by myself every now and then. It started thanks to my love for concerts, live music, and discovering new and upcoming artists. I would find artists whose music I adored and deep-dive into their entire discography. More often than not, when tour season comes I wouldn’t have anyone to go with. (I did. I just felt uncomfortable forcing my friends to buy tickets to see an artist they might not like. Especially since I have an eclectic, and wide-ranging taste in music, or so I want to believe. 😂) Still, I didn’t want to miss out on these experiences. From there, it expanded to theater, museums, and various other experiences. I didn’t realize it then this also served as an exercise to help with my social anxiety.

It wasn’t until I read Julia Cameron’s book, The Artist’s Way, that I learned I’ve unintentionally been going on what she called “Artist Dates”. Cameron described these dates as a once-weekly solo expedition to explore something that intrigues you, to “woo” and nurture your inner artist.

Nowadays, these dates are not always solo, but I am still intentional about blocking time for it.

Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion

This summer I got the chance to visit The Met’s exhibition Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion which was also the theme for this year’s gala. Now I have to admit that I am no fashionista. In fact, I blend in well with most of the NYC population with my capsule all-black ensemble.

I know nothing about the main fashion houses aside from perhaps their names which I might be butchering the pronunciation of. However, I have to say I was humbled. I may not live and breathe the latest runway shows and trends - it can be said that I still regularly wear articles of clothing that should have been retired ages ago - but I left this exhibition with a newfound deep respect for the designers and artisans behind these luxury fashion houses. I respect the artistry and am beyond grateful I got to see these pieces with my very own eyes.

The Met’s multi-sensory immersive exhibition featured over 250 garments and accessories from the Costume Institutes’ collection spanning over four centuries. It celebrated the past and how nature, history, and culture influenced fashion. I never truly paid attention to fashion as well as I should or could beyond the visual pleasure it gives. But as a fellow artist, I am blown-away and inspired by the intricate, innovative craftsmanship of these fashion designers.

The theme for 2025’s Met gala was unveiled a few weeks back- Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. I am already beyond excited to see all designs featured in the exhibit.