Art, Dinner & Good Company

Art, dinner and good company: three things that are essential to a colorful life.

I experienced all three this past weekend, and I must say my weekend was effective in a relaxing way. I got word on Friday that Vitus Shell, an artist from my hometown (Monroe, LA), would be in New Orleans displaying his work. He and I graduated from the same high school, and he and my brother were classmates so I was excited to go and show him a little hometown love. When I got to The George & Leah McKenna Museum of African American Art in New Orleans, I became anxious. I am a huge fan of art, and I couldn't wait to see what Vitus had up his sleeve. When I walked into the museum, I was disappointed. I was baffled for 2.2 seconds because I was wondering why no one ever told me that art shows were this dope???!!!! Art shows can literally be the new club!

As soon as I stepped in the door the good energy hit me. A diversified audience was scattered throughout the building and everyone seemed to be enjoying the creative vibe. The deejay was blasting Electric Relaxation by A Tribe Called Quest (one of my favorite songs by that group in addition to Bonita Applebum and Award Tour - damn, music used to be on another level); a big smile was immediately plastered on my face. Picture me at the sign-in table rocking side-to-side like I'm doing a subtle version of the Wop (an old school dance - YouTube it youngsters) while I'm smiling and writing down my email address - oh yea, I was over excited.

The museum had a nice set up. Exposed brick walls and antique furnishings filled the space. I took a few more steps further in the building and boom, Vitus's art hit me. It definitely caught my attention and the eye of my camera. Check it out below.

Must Be Two Sides: The Dualities Of The Black Experience - Vitus Shell

I love the colors and the representation of our culture in Vitus's paintings. The relevant thing about this painting is that it references an organization that was started by Huey P. Newton who is also from Monroe, LA.

His paintings possess a since of familiarity.

A little background info on Vitus.

I love socially conscious art. The fascinating thing about this painting and most of Vitus's paintings is there are two sides (hence, the art show name) to all of them. Take a look at the background of the painting above - creative, huh?

I think this adorable painting was one of my favorites. It tells so many different stories about the girl in the painting and the happenings behind her. It says to me that she is the illest (outstanding) because of her ancestors who paved the way. She is proud and resilient. Her intelligence not only comes from education in the classroom but through being educated about her history. She is more than her beauty; she is her heritage. She is a "class act."

I'm so glad I got to experience an art show like this one. I hope to experience many more on this level. Vitus did an excellent job and his talent is intriguing and worthy of praise. Seeing his work and reflecting on other talented people from my hometown reassures me that Monroe, La is definitely on the map!!! #318

To check out more of Vitus's art or for information on his next show, visit www.theshellofvitus.com or follow him on Instagram - @theshellofvitus.

After the art show, I had another engagement to attend (my social calendar is out of this world! - NOT). A girlfriend of mine was being celebrated by her husband and close friends due to a recent promotion at her job. You know I love a good dinner and celebration, so I was all for this event.

The Honoree looking lovely. - Mrs. Elisha Bush

The diva was in the building! - Ms. Georgette Wallace

The food - broiled salmon and sauteed shrimp.

Below is what I wore for the two events. I decided to go with something casual and comfortable. I'm in a"no fitted dresses" phase because I want to expand my fashion creativity. We will see how long this phase will last.

I wore a boyfriend blouse from H&M. The tie I had on came from my mother's closet. It may look black in the pictures but it is actually a leather, burgundy tie. My vintage Ralph Lauren jeans came from my father's closet - I love inheriting classic clothes! My heels are Steve Madden.

My weekend was great.....I have no complaints. It was filled with two of the most important elements to me - Style & Energy.

- Samjah Iman

Are you digging Vitus's art? Which painting is your favorite?