King Phillip II by Kehinde Wiley

As the Curator of Dahlight, I’m excited to highlight my favorite gallery as they prepare to show a highly anticipated painting by a contemporary artist – of a modern icon – in the vain of a classic treasure.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Miami from December 2 through 6, head on over to Art Basel Miami Beach and visit the Deitch Studios booth where they will be hosting the Kehinde Wiley painting, Equestrian portrait of King Phillip II, which is in the style of Peter Paul Rubens but, upon closer look, King Phillip II will look quite familiar with his updated face resembling  the late Michael Jackson.

Like so many others, I grew up a fan of Michael Jackson.  I was awed by his dancing, moved by his melodies, inspired by his flair, and I coveted his sensational performing skills.

As I grew older, I began appreciating his apparent love of the world and his compassion for all those that inhabit it.  I was proud to hang his poster on my wall and I have fond memories of choreographing dances to his Thriller album on roller skates in my driveway.

I was also among those that moved away from the superstar as he began to make super-sized and bizarre choices.  My judgment went so far that I thought it a strange choice to make his memorial so extravagant and public.  I was wrong.

The memorial was produced with captivating and palpable love.  It was gentle and human.  And, best of all this special celebration shared with us some valuable life lessons.

Smile.
Smile though your heart is aching, even if it’s breaking.  Smile through your fears and sorrow and you’ll find the sun will shine on you.  If you smile.

Start with the mirror.
Make the change in yourself that you want to see in the world.

Embrace and encourage your inner child.
Take time to play and be silly.  Climb a tree, dance freely, dress up in colorful costumes, complete a puzzle and keep exploring.

Be the best.
Success is not a measure of fame or accolades but rather our choice to be the very best at what we do – whatever that is.  True success comes by being the best street sweeper, barrista, doctor, teacher, plumber, artist, dog groomer, or ditch digger we can be with peaceful contentedness.

Live forever.
Our positive energies and actions live a full life of their own.  They have the power to inspire, encourage and dahlight.  Through these reverberations we live forever.

Thanks for all the good times Michael, we’re still listening.