We have all been expelled from the Garden, but the ones who suffer most in exile are those who are still permitted to dream of perfection.
– Stanley Kunitz, American poet, from The Collected Poems

Lauren’s sculpture of woman on a chair.

Through the end of the month, the work of artist Lauren Ari, whom I profiled last year, will be featured at FM (483 25th Street, Oakland, CA 94612), a gallery and studio founded and directed by a group of Bay Area artists in the burgeoning Oakland Arts District.

This Thursday, May 15th, a reception at FM will highlight Lauren’s artwork and a poetry reading by Alison Luterman and Daniel Ari, Lauren’s husband. FM is open Saturdays 1PM to 5PM and by appointment Sunday through Friday through directors@fmoakland.com.

More of Lauren’s work can also be found at Mua Bar & Restaurant (2442A Webster Street, Oakland, CA 94612, 510.238.1100), a fun and lively restaurant that David and I have been to once with our friends, Soizic and Ric. Have lunch or dinner at Mua and enjoy viewing Lauren’s artwork.

You can also purchase high-quality prints of Lauren’s paintings below. The sizes and prices are 9″ x 12″ ($65), 12″ x 16″ ($70), 15″ x 24″ ($95), 24″ x 36″ $140), and 30″ x 40″  $175). Order by contacting Lauren here on her website. My favorite? The Woman with flowers, which is the first one in the series below, and one which will be gracing our home shortly. Lauren’s energy, sense of humor, and vision are not only evident in her work, they are part of her wonderful personality. Get to know Lauren and her artwork this beautiful month of May in vibrant Oakland.

Woman with flowers.

Woman with lion.

Blue woman.

Woman and man.

Woman with bird.

Woman with horse.

Woman with owl.

Yellow woman.