About Talia Whyte

Posts by Talia Whyte:

Preview: Boom For Real

I am a huge fan of Jean-Michel Basquiat.  When I got the press kit for the new documentary about his too short life, I was immediately hooked.

Film Description

BOOM FOR REAL: THE LATE TEENAGE YEARS OF JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT follows Basquiat’s life pre-fame and how New York City, the times, the people and the movements surrounding him formed the artist he became. Using never-before-seen works, writings and photographs, director Sara Driver, who was part of the New York arts scene herself, worked closely and collaboratively with friends and other artists who emerged from that period: Jim Jarmusch, James Nares, Fab Five Freddy, Glenn O’Brien, Kenny Scharf, Lee Quinones, Patricia Field, Luc Sante and many others. Drawing upon their memories and anecdotes, the film also uses period film footage, music and images to visually re-recreate the era, drawing a portrait of Jean-Michel and Downtown New York City – pre-AIDS, President Reagan, the real estate and art booms – before anyone was motivated by money and ambition. The definition of fame, success and power were very different than today – to be a penniless but published poet was the height of success until everything changed in the early 1980s. This is New York City’s story before that change.

What’s Cooking: Gambas al Ajillo

I had another dinner party at my house during Easter weekend, and you know what that means!

I love cooking Spanish food for my guests.  Our friends Melissa and her husband Johnni were visiting from Spain. I worked with Melissa many years ago on a media development project in Senegal, and we have stayed in touch with her ever since.  Melissa and Johnni are both natives of Valencia, the home of another favorite dish paella.

I thought it would be cool to showcase my Spanish cooking skills with this simple shrimp, olive oil, and garlic dish, which is also a native food to Southern Spain.  As usual, it went over well with my guests and here is the recipe.

Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp)

  • 1 pound of large raw shrimp
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Spanish smoked paprika (or any other paprika)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
  • salt
  • pepper
  • chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
 Directions:
  1. Add butter, olive oil, garlic and red pepper flakes to a saute pan and heat over medium heat.
  2. Saute for about 1 minute or until garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add the paprika, lemon juice, and shrimp and saute for 2-3 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, and pour shrimp and oil into the serving dish. Top with parsley if desired and serve with crusty bread for dipping or on top of cooked Calasparra or any white rice.  I like to also mix in sauteed vegetables.

 

Review: Grace Jones – Bloodlight and Bami

grace jonesA few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to preview the new documentary about iconic provocateur Grace Jones.  I don’t have much to say because it is just phenomenal!  This is one of those movies that really gives you some real insight into a legend’s life.

This is really a musical version of Jones’s life.  I wrote a book review of Jones’s autobiography a couple of years and always thought of her life as a fabulous musical.

Just go see it! It is that great!!!

Five Ways To Promote Literacy

Literacy is an important skill to have to promote both personal and professional growth.  However, according to a 2013 study by the U.S. Department of Education and National Institute of Literacy, 32 million adults in America, or 14 percent, cannot read. Twenty-one percent of adults read below a 5th-grade level, and 19 percent of high school graduates can’t read at all.  For children, a lack of books in the home is also linked to lower reading scores and less success in school.  In an Annie E. Casey Foundation report, students who can’t read proficiently by third grade are four times more likely to leave school without a diploma than proficient readers.

This is why it is important for everyone to promote literacy in their community and among their friends and family members.  Here are five simple ways to do it:

  1. Set an example and make a routine: I committed myself to reading for at least one hour a day, preferably before I go to bed when it is most relaxing. Even on days when I can’t get to read for that one hour, I find times in other ways.  I always have a book on hand, whether it is a physical book or an ebook on my mobile or tablet ready to read anywhere I go.  If I am on the bus or train or waiting in line, I use the time to read even if it is just one or two pages at a time.  It is especially important to set a reading routine with your children like a story time.  When your kids see you reading, you are setting an example for them.
  2. Discuss books with others: Being around other people who like reading supports literacy.  A book club allows you to socialize with other like-minded people while discussing the same book.  Also, sharing your book reviews on a blog or on an online forum like GoodReads or Amazon opens you up to the shared wisdom and thoughts of others around the world!
  3. Give the gift of literacy: I love giving books as gifts.  I try to find out what types of books the recipient might like and get them the book or at least a gift card for an independent bookshop or Barnes and Noble.
  4. Give away books: Every year I go through my extensive library and give away some books to either my local public library, thrift shop, or schools in need of books.  You should also consider donating to organizations that specialize in giving away free or low-cost books to marginalized populations, like prison book programs, literacy programs for people with disabilities and low-income or rural communities, or international NGOs that send books to developing countries.
  5. Support literacy causes: Whenever possible, donate your time or money to support literacy programs, campaigns, and fundraisers.  Theses causes go back into your community to help someone else in need.

 

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