Introduction of "The Nifty Fifty Girls"

Post date: Apr 25, 2014 2:11:01 AM

Has been quite a while since I have been in contact with many of you. The last pieces of my art I sent was back in 2012, when I did the 1st Annual Mouthy Awards series. Due to a few medical setbacks in the interim, I got away from doing more art. The only real creative thing I was involved in was doing a play about Sammy's Tavern, in Kansas City, Kansas and written by my friend Harley Marshall. We did it via Skype earlier this year. It made me want to get back on the "psychiatrist couch" via my art. Want to thank Harley, Katy and my nephew, Ken Paulakovich for the good experience and infusing my creative juices.

While going to physical therapy sessions for my equilibrium issues, I was sent to a very unique place by my neurologist called Nifty After Fifty. It was like most fitness centers, however, there was no one there under 65. There were all the exercise machines, the disco/hip-hop music and cavalcade of ladies dreaming that they were at most 50 once again. It reminded me of the Jane Fonda Workout Centers in the late 70's. The colorful attire and outfits were the same, but life often does not bless all and allow them to retain the bodies they had in more youthful times, both men and women. Listening to the conversations and comments of these "girls", made my structured and difficult routines a bit easier and definitely a bit entertaining.

After completing my final session a few weeks ago and daily doing a similar home exercise program, I couldn't get some of those "girls" out of my mind. I went through my stash of unused art materials and supplies and began working on this new series called The Nifty Girls. It is a satirical look at my experiences during that time. I have completed 8 pieces and will be sending your way 2 pieces a week over the upcoming period. Each piece has the thoughts of the "girl" on the bottom of it. I hope that you will find them whimsical and amusing. As I recently turned 69 myself, I've learned to chuckle at myself when looking in the mirror or doing the required exercises. Our bodies, minds and values may change over time, but may we never lose the enthusiasm to live life. Thank you for teaching me that "girls".

Attached are a few photos.

John Michael

(To see photos of the above art pieces go to https://sites.google.com/site/jmdodigartphotos )