Where imagination, presence, and meaning collide.

Art is the place where we meet ourselves without armor. These essays explore the emotional and psychological dimensions of creativity. The way art demands presence, vulnerability, and a willingness to be changed. They’re about the moments when imagination becomes a form of truth‑telling.

Art & Creativity

Black and white photo of a poet performing spoken word on stage.

On Slam Poetry

James Bonner

Explore slam poetry and spoken word with Buddy Wakefield, a renowned poet known for his unique style and magnetic presence. Learn about the art of slam poetry, its history, and...

On Slam Poetry

James Bonner

Explore slam poetry and spoken word with Buddy Wakefield, a renowned poet known for his unique style and magnetic presence. Learn about the art of slam poetry, its history, and...

Two people seated across from each other in a museum performance setting.

The Artist is Present

James Bonner

A chance visit to MoMA's Tim Burton exhibit led to a profound experience: witnessing Marina Abramovic's performance art piece, "The Artist is Present." Abramovic's courageous exploration of connection and vulnerability...

The Artist is Present

James Bonner

A chance visit to MoMA's Tim Burton exhibit led to a profound experience: witnessing Marina Abramovic's performance art piece, "The Artist is Present." Abramovic's courageous exploration of connection and vulnerability...

Pop art portraits in bright colors representing shifts in American art culture.

Where Have All the Artists Gone?

James Bonner

The American art scene has undergone significant changes since the beginning of the millennium. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, art has become more accessible but has...

Where Have All the Artists Gone?

James Bonner

The American art scene has undergone significant changes since the beginning of the millennium. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, art has become more accessible but has...

Large blue wolf sculpture outside an art installation with visitors nearby.

Meow Wolf: An Art Collective

James Bonner

Experience the magic of Meow Wolf, Santa Fe's renowned art collective. This personal essay recounts the author's journey through Meow Wolf's evolution, from the Due Return to the House of...

Meow Wolf: An Art Collective

James Bonner

Experience the magic of Meow Wolf, Santa Fe's renowned art collective. This personal essay recounts the author's journey through Meow Wolf's evolution, from the Due Return to the House of...

Wrestling with Genius

Wrestling with Genius

James Bonner

David Foster Wallace was a renowned American novelist, essayist, and professor who explored complex themes of isolation, addiction, and modern life challenges. His writing style demanded concentration, and his works...

Wrestling with Genius

James Bonner

David Foster Wallace was a renowned American novelist, essayist, and professor who explored complex themes of isolation, addiction, and modern life challenges. His writing style demanded concentration, and his works...

An essay about general critiquing by James Bonner

Critique & the Power of Personal Expression

James Bonner

Discover the importance of personal expression and subjectivity in art and criticism. This essay explores the limitations of objective criticism, the impact of personal biases, and the value of authentic...

Critique & the Power of Personal Expression

James Bonner

Discover the importance of personal expression and subjectivity in art and criticism. This essay explores the limitations of objective criticism, the impact of personal biases, and the value of authentic...