Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
“Life is a tragedy to those who feel, a comedy to those who think.” The last weekend before break and for many a weekend amidst midterms is the perfect time to reflect on this. Get your laughs on campus and check out the city for a wide selection of cultural options.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art has just opened a massive retrospective of Philadelphia artist Thomas Chimes. Entitled “Adventures in ‘Pataphysics,'” the exhibit explores the evolution of the twentieth century artist’s work which was greatly influenced by modern writers like James Joyce, French absurdists, and of course, ‘Pataphysics:’ the science of imaginary solutions.
Other options in the city? In the way of art are the beautiful oil paintings of “Romantic Realist” Daniel Garber at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Meanwhile you can get in the mood for spring by checking out the Kimmel Center Presentation of Schumann’s “Spring” by the Leipzig Orchestra.
On campus, comedy dominates the weekend. Friday night at 8 in LPAC, the Guerilla Girls, artist-activists who use humor to criticize sexism and racism, perform. Boy Meets Tractor, the sketch comedy group, will also be performing Friday night while Saturday is the Large Scale Event, a presentation by stand up comedian Wanda Sykes.