This week, I wanted to share a recent display that is available to view now through October 11th. Discovery Green is not a newcomer to the blog, and this outdoor installation has been a really cool way to stay socially distanced but also appreciate something out of the ordinary. Admission is free, but parking in the garage for an hour will cost you $10. Pack in the family and make a picnic of it.

“House of Cards” culminates with the art of 20 artists presented in larger than life playing cards, illuminated and stacked in a sturdy design. As the sun goes down, the lights behind the art fluctuate and dance across a programmed pattern. I have included a boomerang video of part of the light sequence for reference.

Initially, I thought that the track to pair with this installation would be Dr. Dre’s “Still D.R.E.” for the quip “…Wanna be the King, but the Ace is back.” But as I admire the mainly face cards at the installation, it is important to see how non face cards are also represented in the work.

Ultimately, I changed my mind on the track to feature PostModern Jukebox’s cover of Lorde’s “Royals”. The tune fits, as well as the song being belted out by Puddles Pity Party, a 6 foot mime in a clown suit. I first became familiar with Puddles from his feature on America’s Got Talent. He’s got an amazing voice and has just my preferred amount of off kilter appeal. Puddles, as talented as he is, always seemed to me to be an unconventional choice which further cemented the song as a winner. Here is a link to Puddles’ site: https://www.puddlespityparty.com/

I was pleased to see one of PMJ’s traveling shows a few years back, and I cannot recommend highly enough seeing them when the world returns to touring again. The ensemble group is talented and brings their best to the stage, belting out reimagined versions of popular songs you will find yourself tapping your toes and want to sing along with. They have a popular youtube presence you can check out when you have time. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCORIeT1hk6tYBuntEXsguLg

I grew up readily middle class. Lorde’s “Royals” strikes me, as it may many of you because it wasn’t long before that I realized that I have to work to make ends meet. I don’t have the privilege of having the world handed to me on a silver platter. However, even if I don’t regularly live the life of an artist in a music video, I see ways where I can be thankful and continue building my life even if it feels like a house of cards some days.

Let’s take care of one another out there, y’all.