Today Marks the Beginning

THRIVE - Planting Peace at LL Hotckiss

2011-05-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

Children from war torn countries who come to Dallas with their families start at LL Hotchkiss Elementary. Today Marks the Beginning collaborates with the art teachers at the school as part of the program - MasterPEACE: Young Artists Making a Kinder World. Watch the video and read Advocate Magizine online! Exerpt - "Today Marks the Beginning, which East Dallas-based artist Karen Blessen founded, planted a peace garden with the refugee students at Hotchkiss. And they designed a peace pole together. The students created mosaics, which artists Diane Van Buren and Linda McLemore compiled onto the pole, made from PVC pipe. At the top, the artists added “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in six languages."

http://lakewood.advocatemag.com/2011/05/advocate-video-east-dallas-nonprofit-plants-peace-in-a-disd-elementary-school/

2011 National Volunteer Week

2011-04-11T18:00:00.000-07:00

This week is "National Volunteer Week," and we want to give a special shout out to all citizens who make a difference in the lives of others in need, and we want to give a special thanks to our volunteers! Without you, are work in the community may not come to fruition. Thanks so much for all your hard work!

If you're interested in volunteering for us, please contact Karen Blessen at kblessen@sbcglobal.net.

"LOVE" Lesson Artwork on Display at the Dallas Public Library

2011-03-20T18:33:00.001-07:00

The "LOVE" lesson artwork created by students from Irma Rangel, Parish Episcopal and L.L. Hotchkiss is officially on display at the Dallas Public Library. Please make sure to go and visit the wonderful exhibit that showcases beautiful peace-oriented art pieces about "love." Thanks to all the MasterPEACE team for working with the students to create such inspirational artwork!

LOVE lesson exhibit and reception

2011-02-13T09:58:00.000-08:00

Art Exhibit and reception of LOVE lesson art from Today Marks the Beginning's MasterPEACE program. Dallas school children created art based on words of Love from the world's Great Peacemakers. Aloft Hotel (1033 Young Street) exhibit presented by Today Marks the Beginning and Ro2Art. Reception 5-7 pm, February 14, 2011

GMT & TMtB!

2011-02-11T07:12:00.000-08:00

Rob McCollum, Karen Blessen and kids from MasterPEACE LOVE lesson brave the ice and snow on Wednesday to show their art on Good Morning Texas!

LOVE on WFAA!

2011-02-05T08:06:00.000-08:00

Only 4 days away from the Rob McCollum interview with Karen Blessen on GMT. Karen will demonstrate how to make LOVE Lesson Valentines with some kids from the MasterPEACE program. February 9, 8:30 - 10:00 am, Channel 8, WFAA. Set your TIVO and DVRs. You won't want to miss this! Please share this with friends and family. The more people know about Today Marks the Beginning and the MasterPEACE program the more we can spread the LOVE!

Black History Month is Here!

2011-02-01T10:10:00.000-08:00

Black History Month is finally upon us! Let's make sure we take time this month to honor those brave individuals who taught us to fight for civil and social rights through peace and perseverance. What are your plans for Black History Month?

Who Are You? A Masquerade Ball benefiting our very own Karen Blessen's 29 pieces

2011-01-23T20:37:00.000-08:00

“Who Are You?” is an event benefiting 29 Pieces by Pulitzer Prize winner Karen Blessen that combines entertainment, music, art, and personal reflection into one amazing and unforgettable night. Enjoy great music by Ishi, The Gritz (Erykah Badu’s band), Hello Lover, Able Youth, and DJ B3. Come and be dazzled by feats of strength, magic, dexterity, and fire at our variety stage. Indulge in complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres by Dripping Springs Vodka, Bacardi, Dewars and Celebrity Chef Richard Pratt as you ask everyone you meet, "Who are you?”. For one night only, get a real answer. Your finest masquerade ball attire is requested.

About 29 Pieces

29 Pieces is an exhibit of large scale art that uses sculpture and the written word to internalize and illuminate the transforming power of sacred words.

29 Pieces also aims to raise awareness of the timeless relevance and artistry of the inspired messages left to us by mystics from many traditions and cultures.

Love Conquers All!

2011-01-21T07:26:00.001-08:00

Dallas school children are putting the final touches on the LOVE lesson art to be displayed in the windows of Neiman Marcus at NorthPark for Valentines Day.
Today Marks the Beginning and Ro2 Art are presenting more of the children's LOVE lesson art at the aLoft Hotel. Stay tuned for more info!

PND - News - Comcast Takeover of NBC Could Stimulate Growth of Nonprofit News

2011-01-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

PND - News - Comcast Takeover of NBC Could Stimulate Growth of Nonprofit News

Whole Lotta' LOVE!

2011-01-02T16:16:00.000-08:00

The new LOVE project is a special MasterPEACE series of lessons with 350 Dallas school children creating art based on the words of philosophers like Virgil and Great Peacemakers like Mother Theresa, Ghandi and others. Neiman Marcus NorthPark will display select artwork in the mall windows and throughout the store in celebration of Valentine's Day. Aloft Hotel will also be displaying some of the art in a limited engagement exhibit. More details to come. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

'Tis the Season, Help Us Improve Our 2011 Programs by Donating to TMtB!

2010-12-08T16:46:00.001-08:00

Hello all,

The holidays are upon us, and the spirit of joy is near. Please spread a little holiday cheer by donating to Today Marks the Beginning; all donations make the world of difference! As we enter 2011, we have big plans for our MasterPEACE program and need a little help from the community to help spread our mission of impacting the public through art about several social issues that affect many across the Dallas community and the world. Thanks for all you have done for us; we look forward to your continued support!

Congratulations Karen Blessen!

2010-11-10T17:50:00.000-08:00

MasterMinds: Matthew Posey, Joel Hester and Karen Blessen Are Winners in Our Inaugural Creativity Award! http://www.dallasobserver.com/

Artists will make art even if they don't make money. With a few dollars, however, they can make more art, bigger art and even take some time to teach others how to make art.

Party with TMtB, La Mode & Eventbrite!

2010-11-09T16:33:00.000-08:00

Today Marks the Beginning is excited to partner with Eventbrite DFW (http://facebook.com/BriteDFW) and LaMode Dallas (http://www.lamodedallas.com) for Art Party 2010, an amazing night showcasing the most creative local designers and stylists as they take fashion, hair, and makeup to their creative limits. Join us for one of Dallas' most creative nights as local models light up the runway with these innovative styles. Enjoy music by DJ Jason Esquire, a live performance by Kirk Thurmond, and a live art show with ArtLoveMagic and Veritas.

Tickets are $15 and include an open beer, wine, and champagne bar featuring Texas' finest, lite bites and sweet treats by Nib Chocolates and lots more. Proceeds from the show benefit Today Marks the Beginning and this is going to be a night Dallas won't soon forget. Come join us and support the arts in DFW!

http://artparty2010-TodayMarks.eventbrite.com
Art Party: Life as Canvas
When: 11.11.2010
Where: Life in Deep Ellum, 2803 Taylor St., Dallas, TX, 75226
Time: 8 pm - 12 am
Cost: $15 at the door

Karen Blessen Mastermind Award!

2010-11-04T18:27:00.000-07:00

Karen Blessen, artist and co-founder of Today Marks the Beginning, is a finalist in the Observer Masterminds Awards. You can read about her accomplishments and the learn about the other finalists by going to:

Dallas Observer Names Nine Dallas Artists as Finalists in Its First Annual Masterminds Award
www.dallasobserver.com

WE ARE SO PROUD AND HAPPY FOR KAREN!

Art Con Awards Today Marks the Beginning

2010-11-01T19:36:00.000-07:00

The art, the music, the party, the people of Art Conspiracy; ALL were stellar on October 23 and Today Marks the Beginning was the beneficiary. This was the biggest Art Con ever. Drum roll......are you ready?! The Art Conspiracy event raised $30,000 for the TMtB program, MasterPEACE! There are more details to come. Right now, we are just blown away by such a generous gift. THANK YOU!

Learn more about Art Conspiracy's street level philanthropy: www.artconspiracy.org

WHoooHOOOOO!

Jerome Weeks Interviews Karen Blessen

2010-10-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

http://artandseek.net/2010/10/15/artseek-on-think-tv-karen-blessen-from-today-marks-the-beginning/

Karen talks about Today Marks the Beginning, MasterPEACE and more.

Nominate Us For the 2010 Mashable Awards

2010-10-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

Help us become the "Must-follow" Non-profit of 2010!

Art Conspiracy Fundraiser for TMtB!

2010-09-13T19:57:00.001-07:00

The best party in town just got better! Today Marks the Beginning is this year's Art Conspiracy beneficiary. Art Conspiracy 6, will be held on October 23rd at 511 West Commerce in Dallas. This year’s Art Conspiracy will be hosted by KXT-FM’s Paul Slavens, will feature live music from Ishi, Seryn and Dem Southernfolkz, dynamic stage design from Edward Ruiz and Courtney Miles and art from 150 area artists. "People from all parts of the community pool their talents to transform a warehouse into a temporary art gallery/concert venue,” said Erik Glissmann, Executive Director, Art Conspiracy.
Money raised at Art Conspiracy event will be donated to Today Marks the Beginning. Students participating in TMtB’s MasterPEACE: Young Artists Making a Kinder World classes will be contributing some artwork for auction during the Art Conspiracy event.
More details to come. TMtB is honored and thrilled to be the 2010 beneficary. Thank you! Labels: 2010, art conspiracy, fundraiser

TMtB Participates in Macy's Shop for a Cause Program!

2010-08-29T18:05:00.000-07:00

Today Marks the Beginning (TMtB) is participating in this year's Macy's Shop for a Cause program! Tickets are being sold by TMtB and Macy stores across the country for $5. For every ticket you purchase you can save 10-20 percent on selected items on the October 16! You can contact Today Marks the Beginning (info@todaymarksthebeginning.org ) directly to purchase your Shop For A Cause ticket. Thanks for all of your help and support for us!

Please share with your friends and family!

Michelle Obama and the Arts

2010-07-06T08:07:00.000-07:00

Michelle Obama “The arts can enrich all of us in this nation as individuals. The arts can enrich all of our communities and the country. And the arts can connect us to each other like nothing else can.”

Arts as a Cause for Hope www.whitehouse.gov First Lady Michelle Obama and Russian First Lady Svetlana Medvedev enjoyed a music and dance program at the Duke Ellington School for the Arts in Washington, D.C.

Join us at the Art Conspiracy SEED event July 16, 7 pm, Sons of Herman Hall, Dallas. Great bands - music and art. Art Conspiracy uses "street level philanthropy" to raise money for non-profit groups. www.artconspiracy.org Today Marks the Beginning (TMtB) is honored to be this year's beneficiary. We use art to impact public awareness of social issues through a diverse range of projects and programs. www.todaymarksthebeginning.org

Art Conspiracy Events & TMtB

2010-06-30T09:06:00.000-07:00

This year’s Art Conspiracy will benefit Today Marks the Beginning! On Friday, July 16th at 7:00 p.m. Art Conspiracy will host SEED, its annual operational fundraiser at the Sons of Herman Hall located at 3414 Elm Street in Dallas.

This year’s SEED will feature clocks created by 30 local artists. The hands and the plywood have been provided, but each artist has the chance to modify, construct or deconstruct the clocks in the way they’d like. In Art Conspiracy fashion, the clocks will be auctioned off live. The starting bid for each piece is $20.

The event will feature music from The Cocky Americans, Jacob Metcalf and Johnny Beauford and will be hosted by Reid Robinson.
The money raised during the SEED event will be used to fund the operating costs associated with Art Conspiracy’s large scale 2010 fundraiser.

TMtB & Art Conspiracy

2010-06-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

Today Marks the Beginning is this year's recipient of the Art Conspiracy Grant! We are thrilled as you can imagine. There is far more to come. But for now open the link, scroll down a bit AND ENJOY!
http://blogs.dallasobserver.com/unfairpark/2010/06/planting_the_seed_for_art_cons.php

Vote for Us for the Chase Community Giving Program on Facebook!

2010-06-12T19:56:00.000-07:00

For the children of darfur - children making art

2010-06-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

Be amazed and inspired: watch the 7 minute video by John Katz of the children at LL Hotchkiss creatng shadowbox art. Children from around the world, many in the US for only a few weeks, created art reflecting what they would do for the children of Darfur, "If I Were a Great Peacemaker". World leaders take note. This link will take you to our You Tube channel to watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knvIwoOIvE8 Please send it to your friends, too.

The Influence Project Pushes For Peace | Advocate Magazine

2010-05-26T22:18:00.000-07:00

The Influence Project Pushes For Peace | Advocate Magazine

Today Marks the Beginning and Irma Rangel Students featured in Pegasus News

2010-05-13T23:49:00.000-07:00

Check out this story and video of Ana Vaquera from Irma Rangel who was inspired by Today Marks the Beginning "INFLUENCE" project to go to Minyards in Dallas to hang up her "peace" artwork! Link: http://www.pegasusnews.com/news/2010/may/13/video-irma-rangel-influence/?refscroll=362

Dallas Morning News ISD Blog

2010-05-07T17:32:00.000-07:00

Read the article about Karen Blessen leading the girl's at Irma Rangel in creating posters to "Influence Peace". These young women then persuaded business owners to post them!

TMtB kids Art for Darfur

2010-04-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

Karen Blessen and Barbara Miller, co-founders of Today Marks the Beginning, talk to the art preview audience at SMU about the shadow box art kids from LL Hotchkiss created for the Art for Darfur Art Auction. Sweet & funny story. Pink...the universal girl color!

Art for Darfur

2010-04-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

TMtB supports ART FOR DARFUR: Art Auction and Benefit. Saurday, April 17 at Owens Art Center, Bishop Blvd., SMU. Bidding starts at 6:00 pm and ends at 7:30 pm. Art for Darfur benefits Darfur Peace and Development (DPDO). TMtB's Karen Blessen facilitated a special art program for a group of refugee school children at Hotchkiss Elementary. The children are adding their support and artistry for the children of Darfur through their shadowbox art which will be on sale at the event, too. John Katz's four-minute film of the Hotchkiss kids' wishes for the children of Darfur will be screened at the event.

A Million & One Ways to Follow TMtB

2010-04-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

Why? The question a lot of people ask who haven't experienced Twitter. Twitter is a quick update on what's happening with TMtB and all the other related art, peace and social justice organizations we follow. Twitter creates a streamlined local and global e-community of like-mided people. You can learn about Today Marks the Beginning (TMtB) in a variety of ways.

You think you know TMtB? Find out more www.twitter.com/todaybeginart

"INFLUENCE" lesson spreading throughout Dallas!

2010-03-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

Irma Rangel and Today Marks the Beginning have collaborated to spread the message of peace through TMtB's project "INFLUENCE" lesson. The students from Irma Rangel are traveling throughout Dallas persuading business owners, churches, etc. to hang up their artwork to inspire others to make peaceful actions and choices.

Check it out: http://masterpeaceinfluence.blogspot.com/

Get Inspired By Our Compelling Projects!

2010-02-19T12:41:00.000-08:00

Rumi...

2009-11-10T11:25:00.001-08:00

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture.

Still treat each guest honorably,
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
As a guide from beyond.

Rumi

MasterPEACE & Great Peace Makers

2009-11-07T11:12:00.000-08:00

Karen Blessen leads a team of visual artists, improv actors, musicians, a dancer, an architect, a photographer, teachers, principals, and volunteers in teaching Dallas school kids the many variations of MasterPEACE: Young Artists Making a Kinder World. Dallas 5th & 6th graders learn how handle overwhelming pressures and emotions at home and in school within the mix of various cultures by using the arts for creative expression, finding common ground and resolving conflict. You can learn more about MasterPEACE other TMtB projects by checking out our website: http://www.todaymarksthebeginning.com/ and following us on twitter: www.twitter.com/todaybeginart

photo: partner schools L.L. Hotchkiss & Parish Episcopal ice cream social for Great PeaceMakers....

The relationship of the artist to her subject

2009-10-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

Photo by James Neel of Nancy Rebal in Rwanda in front of STATIONS TWO: an interactive public artwork , gathering the collective voice of forgiveness.

Dallas artist Nancy Rebal talks about a woman in Kigali, Rwanda who captured her attention. I've seen her painting of "Madalene" and like of all of Nancy's work, it is extraordinary. The very talented James Neel is creating a series called "Art Mark" for Today Marks the Beginning and Nancy Rebal's video is the first. In the video she talks about the woman in Kigali, Rwanda who captured her attention. I've seen the painting of and like of all of Nancy's work, it is extraordinary. Brief moments of art and artists - Art Mark #1 by James Neel. See the video! Time 1:40. Dallas Artist Nancy Rebal talks painting her portrait of "Madalene" http://bit.ly/48y1eb

Another artist, Anyaa, from Sierra Leon and Today Marks the Beginning are hosting a Trunk Show of Anyaa's lush fashions for women and the home. October 24, 4:30 - 7:30 pm at Southside on Lamar, 1409 S Lamar #104 Dallas, TX. A portion of all sales will benefit the projects and programs of Today Marks the Beginning.

New MasterPEACE Video

2009-08-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

Be enlightened, moved and filled with hope. The new video by John Katz of MasterPEACE: Young Artists Making a Kinder World - A program of Today Markes the Beginning. PLEASE PASS IT ON TO FRIENDS, FAMILY, YOUR CIRCLES OF INFLUENCE! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0cPNcjNaSs

Thank you - James Neel for posting!

Breathtaking Photographs

2009-07-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

RT@ EdMercerThese are some awesome b+w photographs. http://bit.ly/12nHZ6

Healing Arts

2009-07-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

The arts allow avenues of expression for those suffering from mental illness. Mental illness is a level playing field. It has no cultural or socio-economic boundaries. Painting, writing, singing, playing instruments, moving, dancing, acting, drawing, poetry, & more - the arts lets everyone be who they are, express what they are feeling and sort through what they are thinking in the moment. The arts can help soldiers make the transtition from war to home and can help raise the spirits of anyone who feels alone or abandoned. The arts should be part of every mental health facility or organization.

Deploy Peace

2009-07-11T07:41:00.000-07:00

Wonderful organization - take a look!
http://deploypeace.blogspot.com/ - Karen Gulino

Our mission is to help our war heroes returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The products we sell are recycled from retired military aircrafts and transformed into jewelry that spreads a message of peace and raises resources to support the important work of the Fisher House.

Stations Two - Photos by James Neel

2009-07-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

The trip from Dallas to Rwanda was the first connection in the world wide network. Nancy Rebal presented STATIONS TWO, at the international Gathering of Forgiveness and 15th year commemoration of the genocide in Kigali Rwanda. STATIONS artists (Nancy Rebal, James Neel, Tim Coursey and David Searcy) teamed with “Gardens of Forgiveness”, New York City and “Mizero”, children of Rwanda. STATIONS TWO is a black 6 foot cube of recycled plastic. The surface serves as a chalkboard for people to write their will to forgive. Microphones gather the voices of the will to forgive. The recording are returned to home base on a flash drive to be edited and evaluated. Documentary film and other data will be reviewed and program created for a worldwide network.
Contact: Nancy Rebal nancy.rebal@gmail.com

What NPOs Need to Know

2009-07-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

Network for Good is providing NPOs with this free 45 minute audio cast. Take the time to listen. It will rock your world!

The best fundraising advice I've ever heard!

Filmmaker Mark Birnbaum Remembers Screenwriter Gretchen Dyer

2009-06-23T10:04:00.001-07:00

From the art & seek blog - full transcript link below:
They were joined at the hip, Gretchen and Julia. They started The Potlatch, which you may know as a ceremonial exchange of gifts observed by Pacific Coast Native Americans. But here they brought writers and actors and filmmakers together to exchange their gifts. They organized table reads of new screenplays. Writers heard their lines read out loud for the first time in front of an audience. The atmosphere at those evenings was electric. You could feel the momentum of the independent film movement. They brought a community together, they changed the culture of Dallas. That community has hung together in some form or fashion ever since and last month it won from the Texas Legislature three bills establishing an incentive program that finally puts us on an equal footing with neighboring states to draw film production back to Texas. Gretchen helped kick that into gear.

Gretch and Julia may have been joined at the hip but they were far from identical. Gretchen was forthright and direct, Julia maybe more tranquilo, sympathetic. It took lots of guts and heart to make the film they wanted to make. Theirs was a family act. Their careers might have taken different turns individually, but they chose to stay together. They and their brother fought and worked and created together, and it was an inspiration for those of us who got to watch.

Filmmaker Mark Birnbaum Remembers Screenwriter Gretchen Dyer

Shared via AddThis

The John Lennon Piano

2009-06-13T14:37:00.000-07:00

The piano on which John Lennon wrote "Imagine" drew everyone to it like a magnet. There were a mix of emotions that ran through people from reverence to awe to celebration. The joy of playing it - Scott Bucklin playing "Let It Be" at the MasterPEACE art show and benefit hosted by the Goss-Michael Foundation: www.youtube.com/todaymarksthebegin

Let It be - indeed.

Live Streaming June 11!

2009-06-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

Cone Johnson @conej and Chad Bolinger @ADKodak will be streaming the MasterPEACE art show & benefit LIVE from the Goss Gallery in Dallas with Twitter updates. Today Marks the Beginning (TMtB) will be streaming the June 11th MasterPEACE art show & benefit starting at 6:30 pm (CST). Even if you're not in Dallas you'll able to “attend” the fundraiser via Ustream. Ustream is an online live webcast server that connects thousands of users around the world to view an event. Just cut and paste this URL into your webrowser and click and you’ll be “there”:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/TMtB

We will also be streaming the TMtB Twitter live @todaybeginart http://twitter.com/todaybeginart

You can donate during the event (or anytime) by going to our website and clicking on the Donate Now button: http://www.todaymarksthebeginning.org

We invite you to be a part of this very special event: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/TMtB

6:30pm (CST), June 11, 2009 ==> MasterPEACE: Young Artist Creating a Kinder World

MasterPEACE Art Show & Benefit

2009-05-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

The Goss-Michael Foundation is hosting the June 11, 2009, 6:30 – 8:30 pm art show and benefit at their gallery on 2500 Cedar Springs in Dallas. The two hour fundraiser, streamed live, will be full of things to do, see and enjoy. The talented Dallas pianist Scott Bucklin is thrilled to be playing the John Lennon piano and will accompany the fabulous Dallas singer/actress Denise Lee and partner Gary Floyd. Raffle items include a month of yoga lessons, art books, jewelry, art works and more. John Katz’s delightful short film about the diverse groups of Dallas school children participating in the MasterPEACE lessons will be screened. And throughout the event, wine, beverages and delicacies will be served, adding to the festivities. There will be plenty to Twitter about!

Creativity and Invention

2009-05-20T09:28:00.000-07:00

One of my favorites: Ole Evinrude got angry when the ice cream in his rowboat melted before he got to his island picnic spot - so he invented the outboard motor. from Karl Vesper

Possibilities

2009-05-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

We make endless choices and decisions. Some are mindful, some - not so much. Challenges evolve, spiral but always come back to the same place, hopefully at a higher level.

TMtB Video story

2009-05-08T13:47:00.000-07:00

MasterPEACE: Young artists making a kinder world. The Downtown Dallas Library is exhibiting students' collage portraits of Peacemakers from around the world through May. You can see interviews with the TMtB facilitators and teachers on our You Tube channel!
www.youtube.com/todaymarksthebegin

Computer love

2009-05-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

Interesting how a relationship can develop between human beings and objects. People develop affection for homes, cars, chairs, blankets, old transistor radios and the like. I have some of those same affections but I never, ever, in a million years thought I could "bond" with a laptop computer. But here I am happily tapping away feeling back at home in the world wide web. It just wasn't the same trying to write, create and develop on a series of "stand-ins" without my personal laptop. I am weirdly content.

Stations Two video

2009-04-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

A story about the transformative power of art giving voice to forgiveness under horrific circumstances. Stations TWO, an interactive artwork gathering the collective voice of forgiveness began its tour in Dallas on its way to Kigali, Rwanda to help commemorate the 15th anniversary of the genocide. Stations Two is now a part of the permanent collections at the Genocide Museum in Kigali. Please go to TMtB channel on You Tube to see the moving video by James Neel of STATIONS TWO in Kigali, Rwanda:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uE1ME75ftQs

If you pause the video (video is 10 minutes in length) in the beginning so it can quickly load, you can watch it without interruption. We invite you to add comments and forward the link on to others. Please check out our website: www.todaymarksthebeginning.org to learn more about our organization and be a part of it!

Downtown Dallas Library Student Art Exhibit

2009-03-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

J. Erik Jonsson Dallas Central Library (downtown) exhibits DIAMONDS from DUST: 152 portraits of Great Peacemakers. The collage portratraits were created by young artists in the MasterPEACE program of Today Marks the Beginning. The exhibit runs March through April with a special reception March 28, 10 - noon.

Students in two Dallas elementary schools and three afterschool programs created collage portraits of global peacemakers, resulting in this inspiring exhibit. The students were all participants in the MasterPEACE program of Today Marks the Beginning. The exhibit also includes 12 photographs by Dallas photographer John Katz, who captured the process.

Participating schools were Parish Episcopal and L.L. Hotchkiss Elementary. The three afterschool programs were at Whitney Young Elementary; J.L. Long Middle School and S.S. Conner Elementary. These afterschool lessons were done in conjunction with the Thriving Minds program of Big Thought.

The curriculum of MasterPEACE: Young Artists Making a Kinder World, focuses on combining peacemaking skills of non-violence with art experiences for the children. The particular lesson that inspired these portraits is titled "Great Peacemakers Like You and Me." The children were asked to make something out of nothing, just like these heroes who tackled extremely difficult situations. In the portraits, a bottle top could become an eye. A straw could become a nose; a piece of discarded jewelry, a hat.

All are invited!

Rwanda & Gardens of Forgiveness

2009-03-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

A note from Diane Hosey, who went to Rwanda with Nancy Rebal, to present Stations Two for the 15th anniversary of the genocide:

Jean Paul Ntakirutimana is instrumental in making way for the Gardens of Forgiveness in Kigali. He opened his house to our entire group of about 40 people where his wife and her friends prepared dinner for us. Followed by singing and dancing of course! One of the things I have found in my travels is how openly people from other countries eagerly invite people into their homes and how honored they are to have you as their guest. This is true of Latin American cultures as well. Quite a difference from us independent Americans.

Gardens of Forgiveness, Rwanda

2009-03-07T15:37:00.001-08:00

Our friends who went to Rwanda with STATIONS TWO met many incredible people. Diane Hosey wrote me in an e-mail about Julie Moir Messervy-Master Gardener: She has some great pictures of

Rwanda

and a shout out to Today Marks the Beginning on it (good on her). I invite you to review her site and watch her video presentation on her design with Yo Yo Ma and the Toronto Music Garden. Though done some years ago you will get a true flavor of her personality and the spiritual nature of her work. She was a joy to be around and between her and Nancy they “worked every room they were in”! And I thought I was high energy! Julie was invited by Lyndon to view sites for a Forgiveness Garden in

Rwanda

.

Click on: A Garden of Forgiveness in Rwanda - The Home Outside - JMMDS Landscape Design Blog — Julie Moir Messervy Design Studio

Student's Peacemaker Art

2009-02-25T14:19:00.001-08:00

Keep checking here, on Facebook or on our website to learn more about the upcoming art show of DISD students' portraits of Peacemakers from around the world. Creating a collage portrait from found objects of people like Martin Luther King, Mother Theresa, Ceasar Chavez, etc. is one of the curriculum sections of MasterPEACE: Young artists making a kinder world. Coming Soon!

Stations Two RWANDA

2009-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

The photo is one from the celebration and christening of Stations Two in Kigali Hotel Palisse. Burundi musicians and singers lead the procession from hotel. The singers loved that the Burundi women at Grace Methodist in Dallas, wrote them a note on Stations and adopted Nancy Rebal as their sister. The Forgiveness Dude cut-out (as Diane Hosey dubbed it) that invites people to share their words of forgiveness, is now in permanent collection of the education program at the Genocide Museum. The Museum Director there would like to have MasterPeace taught there as well and wants to explore a school in Dallas sharing with the children in a school in Kigali using the same program.

Update Stations TWO

2009-02-15T06:57:00.001-08:00

Check out the beautiful pictures and updated blog about STATIONS TWO - Gathering the Collective Voice of Forgiveness in Rwanda. http://jamesneel.typepad.com/off_to_rwanda/ Internet connections are iffy there so they are updating when they can. This interactive public artwork is to help commemorate the 15th anniversary of the genocide. Much sadness but also catharsis and joy.

Stations Two to Rwanda

2009-02-09T07:12:00.000-08:00

Follow friends' blog to Rwanda to help commemorate the 15th anniversary of the genocide. They are bringing STATIONS TWO, an interactive artwork collecting the human voice of forgiveness. http://jamesneel.typepad.com/off_to_rwanda/

Being 58 - a poem

2009-02-08T07:35:00.000-08:00

I fly through the air with the the greatest of ease
The woman way up on the flying trapeze.

The body is older and wider than some
But healthy and vibrant up under the sun.

The mind is more thoughtful, reflective and calm
The heart grows wider spreading the balm.

My outlook is sunny and funny and true
I talk of the new age coming out of the blue.

I know days are coming perhaps full of despair
But I continue to fly way up in the air.

Peace in Action - Dallas School Kids

2009-02-03T05:34:00.000-08:00

One of the lessons in the MasterPEACE curriculum is making a commitment to peace. Dallas students create a magnetized peace commitment they can place on the fridge or their locker reminding them to "be nicer to my sister", "not gossip about friends", "control my emotions" and so forth. Photographer John Katz took a photo if a young girl who has become a hero to me. Her commitment to peace, "never give up". Look for an upcoming art show of the Dallas school children's work at the Women Museum.

Stations Two to Rwanda

2009-01-20T09:46:00.000-08:00

Stations Two, collecting the human voices of forgiveness, leaves for Rwanda in a few days. It will be part of the commemoration of the genocide 15 years ago in Rwanda. Be a part of this journey. Go to our website to learn more. Click on Stations Two spotlight project on our home page: www.todaymarksthebeginning.com

Grace Methodist Church, Dallas
inaugural appearance.

Secretary of the Arts?

2009-01-16T20:40:00.000-08:00

Quincy Jones is putting together a petition to have a cabinet position for Secretary of the Arts. Many countries have a culture minister. Jones asserts that the arts play as an important role as Education, Commerce, etc. Others think that having a culture minister could actually hinder the wide variety of artists and disciplines. They think the NEA and other government funding organizations as they exist are enough. What do you think?

Public Forum on Peace Education

2009-01-12T18:53:00.000-08:00

Please join us Thursday, January 15, at a community conversation about peace education, sponsored by Peacemakers Inc. (7 pm, Center for Community Cooperation) This is actually happening in DALLAS, TEXAS! Something like this seemed unimaginable 25 years ago.

Karen Blessen and Babrbara Miller ofToday Marks the Beginning will describe the TMtB program, MasterPEACE. MasterPEACE is active in schools in DISD, at Parish Episcopal, and at the GirlSMART and BoySMART summer programs in South Dallas. More exciting news: an exhibit of MasterPEACE student artwork of Great Peacemakers, beginning in March, at the beautiful Women's Museum at Fair Park.

Public Art & Forgiveness

2009-01-10T16:30:00.000-08:00

STATIONS TWO, an interactive public artwork, will make its inaugural appearance on January 18 in Dallas before traveling to Rwanda in February. The trip from Dallas to Rwanda will be the first connection in the world wide network. Nancy Rebal is scheduled to present STATIONS TWO, at the international Gathering of Forgiveness and 15th year commemoration of the genocide in Kigali Rwanda. STATIONS artists are teamed with “Gardens of Forgiveness”, New York City and “Mizero”, children of Rwanda.

Experience this powerful artwork on Sunday, January 18 at 12:15 pm. Grace Methodist Church, Junius & Haskell. Learn more: www.todaymarksthebeginning.org and click on projects.

Purpose

2009-01-09T07:43:00.000-08:00

"Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplaceable spark, in the hopeless swamps of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all. Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in the lonely frustration of the life you deserved, but have never been able to reach. Check your road and the tour of your battle. The world you desired can be won. It exists, it is real, it is possible, it is yours."

-Ayn Rand

Arts Activisim

2009-01-05T15:15:00.000-08:00

The arts open up conversation and create dialogue in ways that politics, debates, editorials or community meetings can't. Today Marks the Beginning's mission is "using the arts to impact social issues." The issues we are focusing on this year so far are: teaching school kids about heroes of human rights and non-violent communication; breast cancer's effects on relationships and self-image along with educational components; interactive art giving voice to forgiveness 15 years after the Rwanda genocide and more. We invite you to join in on the conversation - creatively. www.todaymarksthebeginning.org

Desiderata 1692

2008-12-31T13:13:00.000-08:00

"...And whatever your labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life,
Keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
It is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy."

Dallas Peace Project

2008-12-28T19:55:00.000-08:00

Meditation on peace this evening at CSL for the Peace Project to reduce violence in Dallas. The number of violent crimes has been dropping over the past couple of months. The Dallas police chief offers "no reasons" for the drop in crime. HMMMMmmmm.

Personal Peace

2008-12-23T09:10:00.000-08:00

Peace. It does not mean to be in a place where

there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the

midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.

~Anonymous

TMtB Video - three projects

2008-12-15T07:28:00.000-08:00

Creative & Joyous!

2008-12-05T14:25:00.000-08:00

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/benjamin_zander_on_music_and_passion.html

Art and Life

2008-12-02T09:02:00.000-08:00

"Principles for the Development of a Complete Mind: Study the science of art. Study the art of science. Develop your senses - especially learn how to see. Realize that everything connects to everything else." Leonardo da Vinci

The art of science, the art of communication, the art of personal expression and the" art of art" are integral to every society. The graffiti murals on city streets today and the prehistoric murals in the caves of France tell stories of daily life. Jazz, classical, and hip hop create a cacophony of sounds that stir our feet and bodies into action. Shakespeare festivals and Renaissance Fairs; David Mamet and Tennessee Williams; Caroline Cheatwood and Gretchen Dyer - all remind of us our histories and hint at the future.

Proud Flesh

2008-11-27T06:28:00.000-08:00

Diane Hosey, the current TMtB President and breast cancer survivor, is heading up a new project. The project, called PROUD FLESH, is a series of workshops designed to use the arts as an exploration of the emotional jouney through the struggles, insights and triumphs of breast cancer survivors. Lou Michaels, current VP, is helping create the workshops; some of which will culminate in a theatrical piece. You can read Diane's story of her diagnosis at age 27 in the Dallas Morning News article written by TMtB co-founder Karen Blessen. Go to the The TmTB website, www.todaymarksthebeginning.org and click on PROUD FLESH under current projects.

MasterPEACE

2008-11-24T07:26:00.000-08:00

Look at these pictures of Dallas school children. These kids are taking control of their lives through the practical use of art to look at new ways of thinking and communicating. MasterPEACE teaches history and reading in the heroes of non-violence lesson. MasterPEACE teaches design concepts in creating collage portraits and drawing their personal place of peace lessons. MasterPEACE teaches social studies and effective communication through improvisational skits to help resolve conflict with peers and siblings. MasterPEACE teaches emotional control in the "how to handle stress" rap. The kids are accessing different parts of their brains: critical thinking, judgment, discernment and appreciation. This is more than "art for art's sake". These are critical skills that help build a better society locally and globally.

Favorite quotes

2008-11-21T07:05:00.001-08:00

"Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog it's too dark to read."
— Groucho Marx

Picasso

2008-11-19T06:59:00.000-08:00

I begin with an idea and then it becomes something else.
Pablo Picasso

Artists like Picasso; theatre directors like Peter Brook; musicians like Laurie Anderson and playwrights like Caryl Churchill - all have taken that leap. They capture our visceral imagination and fling it about, bringing us face-to-face with our potential selves.

EMOTION UNBOUND

2008-11-18T08:26:00.000-08:00

color bleeding
all together.
swirling, pulsing
tone and pitch.

to the edge,
feel the ledge.
one toe over...
feel the itch.

be the paint
dive on in
creator, play!
don't give an inch.

Art and Social Issues

2008-11-17T08:24:00.000-08:00

Check out the NY Times Sunday Magazine story about the artist doing portraits of Bernanke, Greenspan, etc. He creates the portraits and places them so the public can write comments and express their feelings on them. He refers to the writing on the portraits as "the healing power of art". Sounds a lot like STATIONS and the upcoming STATIONS TWO. Go to www.todaymarksthebeginning.org to see pictures of STATIONS and the "writing on the wall."

This I Believe

2008-11-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

I believe there is room enough at the table for everyone to be heard.
I believe that there ARE enough hands to help, hearts to reach out and minds that are open.
I believe that despair is paralyzing and motion too often confused for action.
I believe that is it not necessary for me to have all the the answers.
I believe that IT IS NOT ALL ABOUT ME!
I believe in the continuing cycle of life and death.
I believe there is freedom in letting go and knowing future generations will continue without us.
I believe it is not so important that we live a long life but that we do live a good life. That our smallest acts are among the most important, for better or worse.

TMtB and Peace One Day

2008-11-13T15:43:00.000-08:00

My friend, Dallas artist Karen Blessen, co-founder of Today Marks the Beginning, illustrated the book, Peace One Day, authored

by Jeremy Gilley. You've gotta love it! This book is the story of how Peace Day happened. A portion of the 2008 International Peace Day report follows:

"In 2008, Peace One Day's aim was to see Peace Day activities take place in every UN member state. The passion and commitment of millions of people from all over the world made this year such an incredible success.

In Afghanistan, the U.N. reported that guns fell silent across the country on Peace Day. There were pledges by the US, NATO, the Afghan government and the Taliban to halt attacks. Furthermore, tens of thousands of international troops, Afghan soldiers and Taliban militants "stood down from offensive military operations in support of the biggest International Peace Day effort that Afghanistan has known." Government officials around the country reported no violence, and several credited Peace Day efforts. (Source: UNAMA - United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan)"