ReadyMade: Instructions for everyday life

Fair citizens of ReadyMade Land:

My name is Melissa Goldstein and I’m very pleased to meet you. Before we embark on this blogging adventure, there are some things you should know about me.

I am consumed by all things arts and culture. And, supposing those things are impeccably dressed but have cabbages where their heads should be (Fig. 1), are scenes rendered dollhouse-like via the photo magic of tilt-shift (Fig. 2), wear kooky sweaters and are ready for the floor (Fig. 3), are cityscapes made of jello (Fig. 4) or are fox puppets whose fur winnows realistically in the cinematic wind (Fig 5) then I heart them.

Recently I’ve been listening to the ’60s-laced indie pop of New Orleans duo The Generationals, reading Sarah Vowell’s witty take on the darker moments of American history, Assassination Vacation, anticipating the release of Amélie director Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s new film MicMacs and admiring the serendipitous street photography of Matt Stuart.

In days past, I held the post of arts and culture editor at San Francisco lifestyle magazine 7×7. Currently I’m a freelance writer and editor based in London—my work has appeared in SPIN, The Believer, The Observer, Intelligent Life, GQ and BlackBook.

When I’m not writing, gig-going, gallery-hopping or wishing there was more ice in my G&T, I’m combing the streets for Houses That Look Like Faces™ (Fig. 6), all in the name of an until-now top-secret project. I mention this, because I feel like we’re close already. If you spot any HTTLF, I would love to be alerted.

I’m a Capricorn. And if you’re a Capricorn too, then you know that our horoscope usually contains phrases like “stubborn goat” and “reliable Cappie.” It may spell doom for my chances of being Paris Hilton’s New BFF—but that reliable bit bodes well for our relationship: I promise never to pull a Hunter S. Thompson on you (without good reason).

I’m hearing the “wrap it up” music being cued on the RM boombox now, so I’ll draw this to a close: Truly excited to be here. Looking forward to sharing my thoughts and hearing yours.