Each time that a format changes, some stuff gets left behind. Usually, it’s small label releases, or stuff that was never popular, but that’s often where the best music is to be found.

I simply said that belonging to Mensa was not any guarantee that you were an interesting or creative person — and that’s basically what you say in your second paragraph, Rowan.

High I.Q. doesn’t mean anything if you can’t translate the ability to problem solve, find obscure patterns and think abstractly into something useful -whether you use it to be as a writer, scientist, actor, teacher, plumber, mechanic, whatever. It also doesn’t make you charming or witty or give you empathy, but there are plenty of people I know who are tremendously smart, charming, talented in their field and thoughtful of others. They see both the big picture and how the small bits fit so when something is going awry – or will go awry – they can help solve the problem. Some members of Mensa meet to discuss the various schools of though that define string theory; some just get together to watch “Lost.” Some just play poker; others have writer’s groups.

Don’t judge and entire group of people from the .002% of them that you actually have had contact with. While it may be your personal experience, you experience is clearly limited.

You will find that some members Mensa are elitist, self-aggrandizing asses. You will find those in just about any group of people. But you also find well-rounded, kinds individuals who like to hang out together. I don’t think you should have such an issue with that.

I have yet to see Continuum, but as one who enjoys the Bill Reid Gallery, I suspect that I will be disappointed, too (the image in the email I received from them was a bit of a turn-off). I will likely be taking a friend there next month, but it will be for the permanent collection and not for this temporary exhibit.

Anyway, I’m very happy to have found your blog, and will follow it with interest.

Exhibitions without a strict thematic are refreshing as you feel the freedom with which the pieces have come together.

It is my understanding that each of the 23 pieces are new and were commissioned by the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art specifically for this exhibition. The exhibition catalogue (on sale in the Gallery Gift Shop) identifies that each of the pieces were created between 2007 – 2009.

The catalogue also includes statements by the artists and beautiful photographs of the artwork. I enjoyed learning the story behind Marianne Nicolson’s diptych (Tunic for a Noblewoman: In Memory of ‘Wadzidalaga) which was created in memory of her grandmother. The grandmother’s birth date is signified on the front of the tunic by Canadian pennies dated 1913 and 16 quarters mark the birth date of the children. The process of giving away quarters to mark the birth of a child is a tradition that was first practiced during the early twentieth century.

A nice article featuring Continuum appears in the Westender:
http://www.westender.com/articles/entry/exhibits-explore-the-new-face-of-first-nations-art/arts-and-entertainment/

And I see it has been picked up by the Georgia Straight as well:
http://www.straight.com/article-236530/continuum-vision-and-creativity-northwest-coast

I suggest classic clothing (limit one trendy item per outfit), accessories, natural but polished makeup with matte lipsticks rather than glosses, short heels, quality fashion, colorful, shapely clothing that is not flashy or cutesy, layered or shorter haircuts, knee-length skirts, tops with texture rather than basic tees, tight-fitting shirts or embellished clothing, no sweats, tailored jeans – not too tight, too loose, faded or holed – wide leg is good though, no scrunchies – opt for a barrette clasped at the nape of your neck instead, no caps, simple handbags, coordinated jewelry and of course an attitude of classy elegance. White or off-white jeans are great for casual style.

While looking in the mirror, tell yourself you are the age you want to look, and make changes to make it believable. Fix areas that do not reflect this age – like switching to ballet flats or skimmers instead of sneakers. Be feminine, but not girlish, pulled-together without trying too hard. Be respectful of others and maintain a calm, cool and collected appearance so that you are taken more seriously. Don’t fidget, giggle or slump – be a lady. Say please and thank you. Talk slower, enunciate, sit with your ankles crossed when you wear a skirt. Layers are fantastic – a simple jacket or cardigan can make your outfit more coordinated and classy. Walk like you have a purpose. Make plans, be neat and organized, iron your clothes, be prompt.

Teens are often mistaken for adults when they dress and act the part, and you can do the same – no wrinkles or gray hair required. It also helps if you are with people your own age or older, partially because you will likely emulate them, and if you use educated language (saying “that would be lovely, thank you” instead of “sure” when someone asks if you want coffee, or using words such as affiliated in everyday conversation). You may even want to consider more classic music – I love classical and Italian music myself – and more classic fragrances such as vanilla or lavender body sprays or Chanel perfume. It is great that you are aging gracefully, and best of luck to you in your pursuit!