THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF MORROW HIGH SCHOOL
Art & Music
Winter Edition
Top Five Christmas Songs
by Emily Lopez
1. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" by Mariah Carey: Released in 1994, this song has become a modern Christmas classic. It's known for its catchy melody and festive lyrics, making it a staple during the holiday season.
2. "Last Christmas" by Wham!: This 1984 hit is a bittersweet Christmas song about unrequited love. Its memorable chorus and nostalgic feel have kept it popular for decades.
3. "Jingle Bell Rock" by Bobby Helms: First released in 1957, this upbeat and rock-and-roll inspired song has been a holiday favorite for generations. Its lively rhythm and cheerful lyrics embody the festive spirit.
4. "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby: Originally recorded in 1942, this song is one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its dreamy lyrics and Crosby's smooth voice evoke a nostalgic and cozy Christmas atmosphere.
5. "Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano: This bilingual Christmas song, released in 1970, combines English and Spanish lyrics. It's simple, joyful message and catchy tune make it a beloved holiday classic around the world.
Cold War Echoes and Cultural Identity: Jacqueline de Jong and More at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
by Takhia Cobb
The NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale is a dynamic space where history, culture, and art converge. One of its current exhibitions, featuring works by Jacqueline de Jong and other notable artists, offers visitors a powerful reflection on Cold War tensions, cultural heritage, and artistic diversity. Through a variety of mediums and perspectives, this exhibition creates a thought-provoking dialogue about the lasting influence of historical conflicts and the celebration of identity.
Cold War Reflections
Jacqueline de Jong’s art takes center stage with bold and evocative pieces inspired by the Cold War era. Her works highlight the fear, uncertainty, and power struggles that defined the period, using surrealist techniques to delve into the psychological and societal impact of global tensions. Through her art, de Jong captures the enduring relevance of the Cold War, reminding viewers of the fragile balance between peace and conflict. These reflections resonate deeply in today’s politically charged environment, drawing connections between past and present challenges.
Exploring Cultural Heritage
In addition to Cold War themes, the exhibition explores questions of cultural heritage and identity. The featured artists draw from diverse traditions and histories, offering perspectives rooted in their unique backgrounds. This element of the show celebrates the richness of cultural diversity while addressing issues of displacement, belonging, and preservation. Whether through de Jong’s European lens or the contributions of other artists, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the ways cultural identity shapes and connects us across time and borders.
A Hub for Artistic Diversity
The NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale serves as a vital platform for showcasing artistic voices from around the world. By bringing together works that tackle both global and personal narratives, the museum fosters a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of history, culture, and art. This exhibition underscores the institution’s commitment to promoting artistic diversity and making space for critical conversations about the past, present, and future.
Through the lens of Jacqueline de Jong and her contemporaries, visitors to the NSU Art Museum can engage with powerful themes that continue to shape our world. The exhibition is a must-see for those interested in the intersection of history, culture, and creative expression.
The Representation of Black Diversity in Modern Cinema
By Ciara Perry
The representation of Black people in modern cinema has evolved significantly by showcasing a wider range of characters and social experiences. However, challenges still remain when achieving full inclusivity and authenticity in Cinema. Some notable films and television shows have explored diverse themes and stories, such as “Moonlight” (2016), which highlighted Afrofuturism and complex family dynamics. “Moonlight” has garnered critical acclaim and expanded the scope of Black representation on screen.
However the industry of Hollywood still faces criticism for perpetuating stereotypes and underrepresentation. A film such as “Birth of a Nation” (1915) was originally the first blockbuster hollywood film, and the longest profitable film of its time. But, it has long been hailed for its dramatic innovations but condemned for the racism inherent in its script and its positive portrayal of the Ku Klux Klan. The Film depicts Black men as unintelligent, sexually aggressive towards white women, and prone to violence. It uses untrue and discriminatingly hurtful stereotypes with blackface to further dehumanize and ridicule all black characters.
The film portrays the KKK as heroic saviors of the south, defending white women and restoring order. That romanticizes a white supremacist terrorist organization and its violent actions. “The Birth of a Nation” had a significant and damaging impact. It helped revive the KKK and normalize racist ideologies. Its influence on popular culture and perceptions of history continues to be debated. “The Birth of a Nation” is a cautionary tale about the dangers of racist propaganda and the importance of critical media literacy.
But now, in modern times, while progress has been made, there is a need for more Black voices behind the camera, as well as greater diversity in roles and storylines. The ongoing conversation about diversity in cinema highlights the importance of representation and the potential for films to reflect the richness and complexity of Black experiences.