Every Stone

Today we went to an art gallery with A, our gracious host. There was an incredible array of absolutely stunning, authentically Nigerian art but also things from South Africa and other parts of West Africa that were probably stocked as novelties for wealthy visitors — there aren’t any other kind here — who don’t know (or care) about African art.

We each picked out some gifts (from the non-South-African and non-stereotypical items), and I helped G decide on some art for his house — of course, by “help,” I mean that I stood next to him supportively and nodded while he picked it. Quite contrary to my intention, I fell in love with a painting by a Nigerian artist, Jonathan Lessor. The paining looks like the one below of the yellow buses and crowds in Lagos, but it has more reds — it’s vibrant and bold, full of primary colors. The painting is strikingly unique, and it’s completely Nigerian. It perfectly captures life in Lagos. To see it, click “keep reading.”

I also finalized my flight plans, and I’m flying in Thursday afternoon. Still flying with KLM. A few friends have offered to come pick me up — and, of course, several threatened to stick me in “a big biohazard bubble” in Alexandria. Hopefully I won’t need it. I feel so, so much better. I’ll be back at work Monday.  Drop a line.