Ever wondered what influence Africa had on the art of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse; why some of Frida Kahlo’s self-portraits show her confined to a hospital bed; or what all those paint splatters in Jackson Pollock’s paintings are about?

The MoMA Presents/2009 Art Lecture Series taking place at several BPL libraries from now through June is a chance to hear a friendly expert cover topics ranging from the urban landscape in contemporary art, women artists in MoMA’s collections, and new work by artists from the Caribbean and South America. Gain a whole new perspective on these and other themes in modern art, and pick up a free ticket for entry to MoMA while you're at it.

There’s so much disheartening news about businesses lately. What’s closing this week? Who needs to be bailed out now? So, I was relieved to get better acquainted with Elissa Olin, who’s making a business dream come true. Elissa was a runner-up in our 2008 PowerUP! Business Plan Competition, winning $5,000 to make her eco-friendly business idea, Green in Bklyn, become reality. I had a few questions for her.

When my family and I committed to making our home greener, we found it difficult to find the products we needed. Green in Bklyn offers a one-stop shop where people who’d like to live an eco-friendly lifestyle can find the information and products they need.

Green in Bklyn will open on Earth Day, April 22 [432 Myrtle Avenue (between Clinton and Waverly Avenues)] In the future, products will be offered online.

I highly recommend lots of research into the viability and necessities of the industry and business. There are lots of free professional business assistance programs. Be very prepared and informed. Ask lots of questions. Accept the gifts that come your way. Be nice. Say thank you.

I wanted to be a rock star, a firefighter and an actor. I’ve been an actor and, at times, a rock star in my mind. Two out of three ain't bad!

If you have a business idea, think about entering yourself into 2009’s PowerUP! Visit our website for more information.

If you loathe cold weather, love flowers in bloom and long strolls in the park, then spring must be your favorite time of year. It’s t-minus 24 hours before the start of spring, so kick the winter hat hair to the curb and forget the spring cleaning. Nothing says change like a little personal upgrade. Check out our BPL staff picks for salons/barbers and spas. These Brooklyn locales are guaranteed to put some spring in your step.

For the perfectly coifed 'do visit:

The Beehive Salon in Williamsburgh: “It’s funky without the hipster attitude.”

Salon de Quartier on Smith Street: “They give great cuts. They even offer tea and cappuccino while you’re being beautified.” 

Time Salon in Fort Greene: “Every stylist in the salon provides star treatment.”

After an afternoon of beautification, check out our top Brooklyn spa picks. 

Cynergy Day Spa on Fort Green Place: “This hidden gem is the perfect place for relaxation.”

Providence Day Spa on Atlantic Avenue: “They have heated, liquid-filled beds that are incredibly soothing."

Pilo Arts in Bay Ridge: “It’s relaxing and welcoming with great prices to boot.”