NOVEMBER 2024

This month, we profile contemporary artist Eric Oglander, publish a short story by Damola Grey, and explore Education and lifelong learning.

Eric Oglander: Curator of the Mundane, Visionary of the Digital Age

In an era where the digital scroll defines everything from fashion to fine art, Eric Oglander (b. 1987, Nashville, TN) has emerged as a modern-day alchemist, transforming the banal into the extraordinary. With quiet charisma and an unassuming presence, Oglander doesn’t concern himself with painting grand canvases or carving elaborate sculptures; instead, he captures the world through a lens that challenges our perception of beauty and meaning in the everyday. The contemporary artist, who has become a quiet yet powerful force in the art world, invites us to look deeper at what’s in front of us—even when it’s something as simple as a mirror for sale on Craigslist.

Oglander’s meteoric rise to prominence began with an idea as unconventional as it was brilliantly timed. His now-iconic Craigslist Mirrors project launched him into the public eye, assembling found images of mirrors posted for sale on Craigslist. In these seemingly mundane reflections, Oglander uncovered hidden poetry—accidental compositions where the mirror becomes secondary to the world it captures within its frame: cluttered bedrooms, half-obscured people, and intimate traces of unknown lives. By doing so, Oglander transformed discarded digital images into meditations on presence and absence, prompting us to reconsider what it means to live in an age where identity is fractured and refracted through countless screens.

“The internet is like a vast archive of forgotten things,” Oglander mused in a recent interview. “I’m just selecting what already exists but may not be seen correctly.” That single line sums up the essence of Oglander’s artistic genius—he doesn’t just find images; he reveals them. His project began with innocent curiosity but evolved into a deeper exploration of the everyday and how objects, environments, and people unwittingly reveal more than they intend in the digital age. Oglander’s work echoes Andy Warhol’s fascination with consumer culture but adds a 21st-century twist, exploring how the internet creates strange new contexts for everything, from the personal to the political.

As a child growing up in Nashville, Oglander was drawn to the offbeat and the overlooked. Early on, he cultivated a deep interest in objects—old, forgotten things he’d come across in flea markets, yard sales, and antique shops. He describes these moments as formative: “I’ve always been fascinated by things that are out of place, slightly wrong, or just a little off. That’s where the magic is.” This sense of curiosity and wonder has remained a cornerstone of his practice, guiding him from childhood through art school and into the unconventional world of internet-found art.

While Craigslist Mirrors may have been his entry into the art world, Oglander is far from a one-note artist. His practice has evolved to embrace the realms of physical sculpture, installation, and conceptual work. In his recent exhibition, Object Permanence, Oglander pushed his exploration of found objects further, deconstructing everyday materials to challenge viewers’ perceptions of value and worth in a throwaway culture. The installation featured a series of fragmented objects—each rendered almost unrecognizable as though caught in the act of becoming or disintegrating, depending on the viewer’s perspective. It’s a powerful commentary on how we assign meaning to the things around us, suggesting that even in an era of mass production, objects still carry emotional weight, histories, and narratives.

His ability to blur the lines between photography, sculpture, and found art has drawn the attention of collectors, curators, and influencers alike. Though deeply intellectual in concept, Oglander’s work also feels playful and is rooted in humor and irony, making it both accessible and profound. His work speaks to our moment in time, where the boundary between the physical and digital worlds has all but dissolved, and our perception of reality itself feels fractured.

It is perhaps this ability to navigate such contradictions—permanence and ephemerality, irony and sincerity, art and artifact—that makes Oglander so compelling. At a time when the art world feels driven by spectacle, Oglander offers an antidote. His art is one of quiet reflection, paying attention to the overlooked, the accidental, and the imperfect. His work invites us to pause, consider, and question what we truly value in a world saturated with images, information, and objects.

Behind Oglander’s disarmingly simple approach lies a rigor and conceptual depth that has earned him followers and deep respect within the art world. His work has been featured in solo and group exhibitions across the U.S., and pieces from the Craigslist Mirrors project have entered the collections of major museums and private collectors alike. As he continues to evolve his practice, Oglander is poised to leave a lasting imprint on contemporary art as a bridge between the digital age and a more analog, reflective way of seeing the world.

Despite his success, Oglander remains refreshingly down-to-earth. In interviews, he speaks with humility about his practice, often shrugging off praise as if he were surprised by the attention his work has garnered. “I just love things that feel a little off-kilter, like they’ve escaped perfection,” he says with a smile, dressed in his signature flannel and jeans. Yet, beneath the modesty lies a sharp mind—constantly searching for the extraordinary within the ordinary and for those fleeting moments when the digital and physical worlds unexpectedly collide.

As contemporary art continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, Eric Oglander stands at the forefront—a quiet revolutionary. His work forces us to look twice, confront what we take for granted, and question what it means to live in a time when reality feels increasingly elusive. In a world of Instagram likes and fast-paced media consumption, Oglander’s art provides a pause—a reminder to slow down and truly see what is before us.

Perhaps that’s why his work continues to resonate so profoundly; it reflects a world we all live in but rarely stop to notice. As we scroll endlessly through our feeds, Eric Oglander invites us to look again, and in doing so, rediscover the art that surrounds us every day.

Embracing the Hidden Powers of Your Psyche

By: Damola Grey

If you think really hard about Kurama from Naruto, things about your life will unlock. This seemingly simple thought has far-reaching implications for self-awareness, personal growth, and understanding the deeper layers of our consciousness. To truly grasp this concept, we need to step back and consider an idea central to Naruto: the Jinchuriki.

In the anime, a Jinchuriki is a vessel, a person who harbors a powerful beast within them—Kurama, the Nine-Tails, being one of the most formidable. This beast has immense, often destructive power, but it can also be a source of unimaginable strength if mastered. What if, instead of Kurama being a mythological creature in an anime, we reframe it as a symbol for the hidden, powerful aspects of your own psyche?

The Conscious Mind as a Jinchuriki

The conscious mind, like a Jinchuriki, serves as a vessel—a medium through which multiple personas or aspects of the self express themselves. These inner personas, or “tails” as we may call them, each represent different facets of your being. Some personas are more dominant in certain situations, while others remain in the shadows, repressed and waiting for their moment.

In the same way that Naruto had to make peace with Kurama and learn to work with his nine-tailed beast, each of us carries a “shadow” that the conscious mind isn’t fully aware of. This shadow often acts as though it has a will of its own, occasionally taking control and doing things that seem out of alignment with the person we believe we are. Yet, this shadow has incredible power—it’s the part of us we fear, but also the part that holds untapped potential.

The Denial of the Shadow

Most people live in denial of their shadow, believing that it represents their dark, unacceptable, or “evil” side. They repress it, thinking that by doing so, they are doing the right thing, staying in control, and presenting the best version of themselves to the world. But this repression creates internal discord. If you’re constantly suppressing parts of who you are, how can you truly be whole?

The truth is, this denial leads to imbalances. You experience gaps between the person you want to be and the person you actually are. In the worst-case scenario, you may experience lapses where your shadow bursts forth and acts out in unexpected, sometimes destructive ways. These moments often come as a shock, leading to guilt, confusion, or even fear of your own self.

Acknowledging the Shadow

The way forward is not through further suppression but by acknowledging the shadow. This doesn’t mean letting it run wild but understanding its characteristics—its strengths, weaknesses, and desires. By bringing these traits into the light, you disarm them. The shadow isn’t inherently evil; it’s merely a part of you that hasn’t been integrated into your conscious awareness.

This is where Kurama’s metaphor becomes crucial. Naruto had to acknowledge Kurama’s power and learn to live in harmony with it. He didn’t defeat it; he made peace with it, allowing both to coexist and work together. In the same way, you must identify the personas within you, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, and give them a role in your life.

The Warrior and The Child

An effective strategy is to invent a persona that thrives in discomfort, someone who can tackle the difficult things you struggle with. Let’s call this persona “The Warrior.” The Warrior embodies all the strengths you feel you lack:

– The Warrior has dominant, masculine energy and excels in high-stakes social situations.

– He loves to work out and has a body that reflects that dedication.

– He can function sober, even in chaotic environments, and has an uncanny ability to regulate his emotions.

– His greatest asset is that he embraces discomfort; it doesn’t faze him.

The Warrior represents the qualities you wish to cultivate but have trouble accessing in your day-to-day life. However, The Warrior isn’t the only part of you. There’s also a more childlike version of you that seeks comfort, pleasure, and ease. Let’s call this part “The Child.” 

The challenge, then, is knowing when The Warrior should take over and when it’s time for The Child to lead. Each has its role, and balance is key. When one part of you—whether it’s The Warrior or The Child—tries to dominate the other, internal conflict arises. It’s as though one tail of Kurama is trying to wrest control from the others, refusing to let go out of fear that it will never be allowed to exist again. 

The Consequences of Imbalance

Let’s take an example: The Warrior, with all his strengths, is great at navigating difficult challenges, such as starting a business or pursuing a passion. However, as things progress, The Child takes control because the situation shifts to one that requires emotional connection and ease. The Child refuses to hand control back to The Warrior, even though certain situations require The Warrior’s strengths to navigate them effectively. 

This leads to confusion, both internally and externally. The personas within you are now at odds, and the conscious mind—the Jinchuriki—ends up on “autopilot,” stuck between personas. It’s like being asleep at the wheel, leading to unfulfilled relationships, missed opportunities, and a lack of direction.

Waking Up: Becoming the Conductor

To wake up spiritually and emotionally, you must recognize that the conscious mind isn’t meant to drive; it’s meant to be the conductor, knowing when to call forth which persona. Like a Jinchuriki who finally learns to balance the power of the Nine-Tails, you must learn to trust each part of yourself to take control when the situation calls for it.

The Jinchuriki must surrender—not to the chaos within, but to the divine, to the higher consciousness that knows how to orchestrate these different aspects of the self. When the conscious mind submits to a higher power, all the personas within you—whether The Warrior, The Child, or any other part—fall into place. Balance is restored, and your true potential can be unlocked.

Embracing the Tails of Kurama

Kurama, with his nine tails, isn’t a monster to be defeated. He is a symbol of the multifaceted nature of your psyche. Each tail represents a different persona, a different aspect of who you are. The key to unlocking the power of your inner Kurama lies in balance—knowing when to step aside and let the right part of yourself take the lead, and trusting that all parts have a place in your journey.

So, the next time you find yourself in conflict, ask: which persona is needed now? Which tail should be in control? And when you can answer that question, you’ll be one step closer to mastering your inner Kurama and unlocking the hidden potential within you.

The Never-Ending School of Life: Why Continuous Learning is the Ultimate Power Move in Our Changing World

In today’s hyper-connected, ever-evolving world, where yesterday’s breakthroughs are today’s old news, education isn’t a one-time event or a fancy degree hanging on the wall. It’s a mindset, a lifestyle, and a superpower. Harvard Business Review and HBS Working Knowledge make it crystal clear: in this whirlwind of progress, continuous learning is the secret weapon that keeps you relevant, resilient, and relentlessly ahead of the game. Those who embrace lifelong learning don’t just survive the ride—they steer the wheel.

Just a few decades ago, a college degree was the golden ticket, the ultimate credential. Back then, education was a launchpad that got you into a career and provided a place to settle down. But now? That “finish line” has disappeared. The world is a live-wire circuit of new roles, emerging industries, and career twists that didn’t even exist five years ago. The truth is that education has evolved from a one-time milestone into an ongoing journey, a companion for life.

In this age of disruption, those who thrive are the ones who have mastered the art of adaptation. It’s not just the CEOs or innovators who need this skill; it’s all of us. Imagine the difference between someone clinging to outdated expertise and someone who is constantly renewing their knowledge. One is left playing catch-up, while the other is effortlessly ahead of the curve. Lifelong learning is not just a tool for survival; it’s a skill that enables us to reinvent ourselves.

Think of the pace at which technology is changing. Artificial intelligence, automation, and biotech—each of these fields is reshaping industries and, by extension, our jobs. Adaptation through learning allows us to not only keep up but also to actively participate in these transformations. The ability to learn new skills is now as important as having them in the first place. It’s the learners who become leaders, guiding others through changes that might otherwise feel intimidating.

Let’s talk about creativity, that elusive spark that turns good ideas into groundbreaking ones. Lifelong learning keeps creativity alive because it cultivates curiosity, a constant hunger for knowledge that opens doors to new ideas. When people expose themselves to diverse fields and ways of thinking, they create connections that wouldn’t exist otherwise. In fact, most innovative thinkers aren’t just experts in one domain—they’re skilled at synthesizing knowledge from different disciplines.

Curiosity is the gateway to creativity, and it’s no wonder that some of the most successful entrepreneurs, scientists, and artists are avid learners. By regularly engaging in continuous education, whether through books, seminars, podcasts, or networking, they nurture a unique way of seeing the world. Instead of following the crowd, lifelong learners blaze new trails, thinking in ways that are unexpected, exciting, and ultimately more innovative. They don’t just ask “Why?”—they also ask “Why not?”

The days of linear career progression are over. Today, professionals navigate a landscape where lateral moves, pivots, and reinventions are the norm. Lifelong learning provides the foundation for this journey, equipping people with the skills they need to shift gears, pivot careers, and seize new opportunities. Those who view learning as an ongoing commitment have the freedom to adapt their careers on their own terms, whether it’s moving from marketing to UX design or from finance to renewable energy.

With this mindset, career advancement isn’t limited to promotions or titles; it’s about aligning one’s work with personal growth and values. Learning transforms how we approach work itself, making it less about a paycheck and more about finding purpose and passion. It’s about having the ability to switch roles confidently and reinvent what success means. In this sense, continuous learning isn’t just a career move; it’s a path to fulfillment, a way to keep evolving and reenergizing.

Organizations that value growth know that a culture of learning is a win-win. Companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft aren’t just renowned for their products; they’re known for fostering an environment where learning is encouraged and celebrated. Offering educational resources isn’t just a benefit for employees; it’s a competitive advantage that keeps companies agile and resilient. In a marketplace that’s constantly evolving, a team committed to growth is invaluable.

It’s no surprise that companies with a learning culture tend to have higher retention rates, greater employee satisfaction, and a reputation for being forward-thinking. By supporting continuous learning, organizations invest in the long-term growth of their workforce. This not only keeps the team’s skills up-to-date but also ensures that the organization is always ready to tackle new challenges. Companies that prioritize learning don’t just react to changes—they lead the way, anticipating shifts and seizing opportunities.

Lifelong learning sounds grand, but it’s achievable through small, consistent actions that can be woven into everyday life. It doesn’t have to mean going back to school; it can mean reading an article, attending a workshop, or simply staying curious. Here’s how to make learning a daily habit:

1. Set Small, Meaningful Goals

Grand aspirations are great, but the journey of lifelong learning is fueled by bite-sized goals. Start by aiming to learn something new each day, whether it’s reading a few pages of a book, watching a tutorial, or discussing an interesting article with a friend.

2. Surround Yourself with Diverse Perspectives

People from different backgrounds, industries, and ways of thinking can broaden your horizons. They challenge assumptions, introduce new ideas, and inspire fresh ways of looking at old problems. Seek out a network that nurtures your growth and encourages you to explore.

3. Use Technology Wisely

We’re lucky to live in an age where knowledge is just a click away. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and MasterClass offer a world of information at our fingertips. Set aside regular time to engage with these resources, and treat it as seriously as you would any other meeting or task.

4. Embrace Failure as Part of Learning

Lifelong learning isn’t a smooth road—it’s filled with setbacks, missteps, and even failures. Embrace them. The moments when things don’t go as planned are often the most profound learning experiences. Learning through trial and error builds resilience and makes successes that much more meaningful.

5. Celebrate Every Step Forward

Lifelong learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Each achievement, no matter how small, deserves recognition. Whether you’ve completed a course, mastered a new skill, or just made it through a challenging chapter of a book, take a moment to appreciate your progress.

The call to lifelong learning isn’t just about career advancement or personal growth; it’s a call to embrace life in its fullest, richest form. It’s about cultivating a mindset that’s open to possibilities, a heart that’s fearless in the face of change, and a spirit that’s endlessly curious. In a world that’s ever-shifting, lifelong learning becomes the compass that guides us through uncertainty and propels us toward growth, passion, and purpose.

Lifelong learning lets us navigate our lives with intention. It’s a mindset that builds confidence, enables adaptability, and creates a sense of personal agency. When we choose to be lifelong learners, we’re saying yes to growth, yes to curiosity, and yes to becoming the best versions of ourselves. So, the next time you pick up a book, attend a seminar, or simply ask a question, know that you’re not just gaining knowledge—you’re investing in a richer, more resilient, and more remarkable version of yourself.

In the end, the most valuable education isn’t about a certificate or a title; it’s the wisdom, adaptability, and curiosity we gain from being lifelong students of life itself. So live, learn, and keep growing. Because in this dynamic, exhilarating world, knowledge truly is the ultimate superpower—and the journey of learning is the adventure of a lifetime.