CONTEMPORARY CULTURE
Issue_
41
D R E S S
WITHOUT LIMITS
Collection Available Exclusively to Members
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Thanksgiving Stripes, collage on canvas, 40” x 60”
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Issue_41
SPOTLIGHT 16
Dance Frédérick Gravel: A Rising Star
PROFILE 18
Artist Murray Weinstein
FEATURES
40
Rotraut Klein Moquay: Sculptor, Painter, Muse
44
The Storied Life and Art of Legendary Artist and Art Activist: Miriam Cassell
50
56
Iconic Fashion Designer, Robert Stock, is Redefining Menswear Again
56
16 EVENTS + GATHERINGS
Cover Story Lena Young: The Healing Power of Art
62
20
FCBUZZ EVENTS Introducing a New Integrated Website
22
ArtsWestchester Live At ArtsWestchester This Winter
24
Highlights 22nd Boston International Fine Art Show
Artemisia’s Revenge
ON THE COVER Power by Lena Young see page 62 6
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
44
ELEISH VAN BREEMS | H O M E Furniture • Antiques • Lighting • Pillows • Tabletop • Accessories
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Issue_41
25
Highlights The Arts Arena Inaugural Gala
26
Highlights Rooms with a View Design Event
27
Highlights Seakeepers Celebrates its 20th Anniversary
66
70
74
Stage ACT Up: A Contemporary Theatre Brings Broadway to Western Connecticut.
76
Film Peter Fox reviews Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
36
DECORATIVE ARTS STYLE 28
Guide Chic Showroom and Extravagant Buys this Winter
APPETITE 30 88
The Golden Palate Sarasota’s Best Dining CONTEMPORARYCULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
32
Venü Vines Moshin Vineyards and Winery
34
Venü Vines Florida Winefest & Auction Celebrates 29 Years
36
Venü Vines A Tail of Two Wineries: Christopher Creek & Castello Foppoli
WELLBEING 66
Its Hip to be Sober: Beyond the Mocktail
PULSE 70
Art Beyond Words: The Evolution of the New Themed Wynwood Walls
78
On the Block Selection of Fall Sales
VENÜGRAM 80
Featured Kim Cooper
IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Publisher’s Letter
Art speaks volumes, empowering artists of all mediums to express their unique
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
International Fine Art Show. Her work not only exudes joy, it is magnetizing, drawing us to individual pieces with some kind of
thoughts through the doing and audiences
supernatural power. Lena encourages us to
to interpret them, personally, through the
Take a look at Fred Bollaci’s story on art
viewing. That’s the beauty of the artistic
activist Miriam Cassell, another artist who
trust in ourselves and to seek things in this
license, a means of sanctioning freedom
was ahead of her time. Now in her 70s, she
world that bring us joy. “Art can do that,” she
of expression without reprisal because
has been pushing the envelope with her
says. She explains that art heals but we can’t
the message, whether elusive or direct, is
outspoken images and artistic commentary
help thinking there’s more to her paintings
always open to discussion.
against social wrongs for more than five
than meets the eye. Read Lisa Mikulski’s
We’re celebrating artistic eloquence in this
decades. In so doing, she has made great
interview with Lena and you’ll get a glimpse
first issue of the New Year, noting with admi-
strides for women artists who struggle to be
of what we’re talking about.
ration the strength of character and insightful
heard and taken seriously.
Treat yourself to a look at über-creative
commentary on the part of our featured
German-French artist Rotraut Klein
fashion designer Robert Stock’s new mens-
artists, especially those who rallied against
Moquay, more often remembered as the late
wear collection at robertsclub.com. Married
injustice when it was dangerous to do so!
wife of flamboyant artist Yves Klein than as
to Connecticut artist Nancy McTague-Stock
Back in the 16th century, the artist
the incredible sculptor and painter that she is,
and passionate about color and design,
Artemisia Gentileschi voiced her feelings in
has been quietly making a name for herself in
Robert literally wears his art on his sleeve.
paint, visually chronicling acts of defiance
Phoenix, Arizona, where Nona Footz had the
Now all of our male readers can too!
and revenge against a perpetrator granted
honor of speaking with her for Venü. She feels
We’ve been having such a great time with
leniency from his crimes in the flesh. Not
her art before she creates it, giving life to the
all the artists we’ve met, including rock star
everyone who admired her paintings
elements she connects with in space, on earth
chefs and winemakers and their irresistible
recognized her meaning at that time, but
and in nature with each talented stroke of her
food and wines, that we can’t wait for you to
others heard it loud and clear, giving artists
hand. As she tells Nona, her “creativity is just
meet them too. Take a break in your favorite
of all mediums the courage to speak out and
there and it’s hers to capture and use as if out
chair and savor the stories in this issue; like
color outside of the lines. A broad brush “Me
of necessity. Like air, water, food, love.”
the art you’ll find within, we hope it brings
Too” movement that continues today.
Which leads us to the healing works of our
you joy and comfort in this New Year.
cover artist, Lena Young, who we fell in love with the moment we met her at the Boston
Tracey Thomas Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Cover Story - Pg. 50 Lena Young in her studio 10 10
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
THEATER
Campo Minado / MINEFIELD
Saturday, January 26, 2019 | 8 pm
Told in both Spanish and English, this theatre piece is staged on a film-set-turned-time-machine, where those who fought in the Falklands War are teleported into the past to reconstruct their memories of the war and aftermath.
CIRCUS
Gravity & Other Myths
A Simple Space
Family
Thursday, January 31, 2019 | 8 pm
fun!
Seven acrobats supported by driving live percussion, A Simple Space is simultaneously raw, frantic, delicate, and presented so intimately that you can feel the heat, hear every breath, and be immersed in every moment.
CABARET
Radicals In Miniature Saturday, February 23, 2019 | 8 pm Sunday, February 24, 2019 | 3 pm
Ain Gordon and Josh Quillen speak, sing, play, interrogate, and partner lovingly, conjuring the elegies of those who impacted latter 20th century “alternative� culture only to lose their toehold on immortality.
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THE SMALL PRINT: No responsibility can be taken for the quality and accuracy of the reproductions, as this is dependent upon the artwork and material supplied. No responsibility can be taken for typographical errors. The publishers reserve the right to refuse and edit material as presented. All prices and specifications to advertise are subject to change without notice. The opinions in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Copyright VENÜ Magazine. All rights reserved. The name VENÜ Magazine is copyright protected. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without written consent from the publisher. VENÜ Magazine does not accept responsibility for unsolicited material. This is a quarterly publication and we encourage the public, galleries, artists, designers, photographers, writers (calling all creative’s) to submit photos, features, drawings, etc., but we assume no responsibility for failure to publish submissions.
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SPOTLIGHT:
Dance
MONTREAL HAS A NEW LEADER. You prob-
he aspires to “become an interesting bad
ably won’t see him canvassing for votes or
dancer.” Gravel notes how “I like to create
espousing his political views on the airwaves,
a show with a non-show [...] and demystify
but if you dig a little deeper you will definitely start to find his footprint and design making its way into the spotlight. As the new Artistic Director of DLD (Daniel Léveillé Danse), Frédérick Gravel is making waves in
the spectacular,” He turns the performance upside down, disrupting the passiveness of the audience and the expectations of fans of contemporary dance, he is complicit with the audience, thumbing his nose at the avant-
A Rising Star in the International Dance Scene
garde, at the exclusive preserves of the elite.
Québec à Montréal dance faculty whose
Rooted in theories of society and the self,
thesis focused on “the role of the dance
Written by Peter Van Heerden
and coming from a strong heritage in Mon-
the international supercharged dance scene. It is his performative and choreographic language that makes Gravel’s voice unique. A 2009 graduate of the Université du
In lucid, offhand fashion, he takes popular culture and establishment culture out of their assigned roles and brings them together.
artist in a democratic society,” his work and
treal, Gravel integrates the body politic and
investigation advocates for the intermingling
looks at the North American male and his
of cultures and disciplines in a raw hybrid of
influence and position in society. The sophis-
dance, rock and roll and stand-up comedy.
tication of his work provides context to the
Just read the description for his 2017 work
struggles of one’s place in society and the
“Some Hope for the Bastards,” as described
question of, “How do I fit in?” The relevance
in the CINARS 2019 biennial program:
of his work in our contemporary society offers
“This is an unholy hybrid of the highbrow
a powerful reflection on what we don’t see
and the high-octane. For the musically
or don’t want to see, and offers a pathway to
adventurous and visually attuned, Gravel
further conversation and reflection on who
electrifies audiences with dance that is rock
we are and how we behave.
’n’ roll sexy and in the moment.”
16
Frédérick Gravel
It is at this edge of the complicit interaction
It is Gravel’s relevance in the current
between performer and audience that his
moment that makes his works resonate and
work finds its way. Gravel leaves us asking
has catapulted him to the center of the dance
questions of ourselves – is that really what
world. Gravel has the gift of approaching
that looks like when we do that? Is that really
his craft as Choreographer, light designer
how we behave? One doesn’t get the simple
and anthropological researcher. He is also
satisfaction of walking away from a Gravel
a dancer – a bad one, he claims, although
piece with one identifier or ease of emotion,
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
as his works probe our understandings of con-
interiors. Conditioned as we are, no room
temporary culture, human nature and identity,
as ever been left for any patience.” (www.
but he does however leave us wanting more.
danielleveilledanse.org). For the musically
Although Gravel is taking the world by
adventurous and visually attuned, Gravel
storm, his body of work is just surfacing
offers a spectacle to savor – an unholy
stateside. One Connecticut performing
hybrid of the highbrow and the high-oc-
arts center, The Quick Center for the Arts at
tane with musical references of rock, R&B,
Fairfield University, is changing all that. The
even classical.
Quick first presented Gravel’s 2010 work
As the new Artistic Director of DLD
“Tout se pète la gueule, chérie” “All Hell is
Gravel has an opportunity to further shape
Breaking Loose, Honey” to open their 2017
the conversation and influence the world of
season. The success of this engagement led
dance through his vision as a ‘bad dancer,’
to further collaboration through a summer
social anthropologist and designer. With
intensive residency in 2018 with Gravel and
a company manifesto that ‘supports the
collaborator Étienne Lepage. Gravel worked
creation, production and presentation of
on his first solo performance to premier at
choreographic projects at the forefront
FTA in Montreal in 2019, with a U.S. Premier at
of dance and the performing arts,’ Gravel
Frédérick Gravel is one of the pioneers of the new wave of choreographers who are breaking down the image of elitism in contemporary dance to make it more accessible [...] Having everything to please, he is posed as a rising star of the international dance scene.” — FABIENNE CABADO, VOIR (MONTRÉAL) the Quick in Fall 2019. The work is an exciting
believes, “The company’s values are close to
co-production between DLD cie (Montreal),
my heart and I want this unique and innova-
Festival TransAmeriques (Montreal), Quick
tive organization, which propels the arts to
Center for the Arts (Fairfield, USA), National
new heights, to continue existing, growing
Choreographic Center of Caen (Caen,
and helping artists reach their full potential.”
France), and MuffaWerk (Munich, Germany).
The world of dance is in great hands with
The party is not over, as of March 2019,
Frédérick Gravel, and as the lights go up
the Quick presents Gravel’s 2017 work
and the show goes on, we will continue to
“Some Hope for the Bastards.” The work,
ask, ”What have we come to see?” Gravel
a wild choreographic concert, performed
cultivates artistic ambiguity, cultural trans-
by nine dancers with Gravel on guitar
versality, and the mixing of disciplines and
accompanied by his band, is described as,
postmodern irony. After all, it is central to our
“A melancholic party, a dark celebration.
current climate. ¨
A poetic hymn dedicated to the feeling of helplessness and apathy. When you
‘Some Hope for the Bastards’
don’t know where to go, you just wait.
22 March, 2019, 8PM
We are all waiting for something, but this
Quick Center for the Arts
has a cost, the waiting is eating up our
quickcenter.fairfield.edu CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
17
PROFILE:
Artist
MURRAY WEINSTEIN “Dramatic, Contemporary, Colorful, Show-Stopping Objets d’Art”
MURRAY’S ART IS BRIGHT, vibrant, and
supplemented if necessary by other direct
dramatic, his pieces take on and bring a
lines, in which they become a work of art,
life of their own and sense of vibrancy to
as vivid as it is real.
any space, are unmistakable and much
“Color and art has always been a part
sought after by collectors who wish to
of my life,” as a retired printing company
add panache to sophisticated modern
executive from New York.” Murray’s whole
décor. His paintings and objets d’art
career has been observing the profound
evoke a sense of “wow” with their colorful
effect the artistic process has on an indi-
patterns and lines, and immediately draw
vidual’s perspective on life. This has been
your attention. Murray’s paintings are not
strengthened by numerous experiences,
composed of perfectly flat planes of color.
working with leading artists, art directors,
Brush strokes are evident throughout,
and New York City’s advertising agencies,
even though they are subtle. The trained
1
eye will note Weinstein’s paintings are
in the world.” “I have seen the emergence
inspired by Piet Mondrian and Gerhard
and embraced the importance of the Pan-
Richter, though they have a flair all their own. Typical of his style is his painting “Sunrise Sunset.” One of the most minimal of his works, the painting seems to reach into infinity and completes a wall
Blue Gallery 600 East Atlantic Avenue Delray Beach, FL 33483 561.265.0020 www.bluefineart.com/murray-weinstein * Mwmw18@aol.com
in a home in Coto de Caza, CA. “My paintings have to be made, it just
18
whom the artist calls “the toughest critics
tone Matching System and the creation of thousands of uses of color on the printed sheet, and the subtle emotional reactions to incremental change. At this point in my life, I am driven to personally explore the art of painting and creating. All the works that I have created until now are based
doesn’t happen. The process takes plenty of thought and imagination,
on what I call ‘compatible contrasting color,’ informed by my long
but with respect to size, design, and colors, once I get started the
experience with the Pantone system.”
thought process takes over and constantly creates. I’m constantly think-
Murray’s vision for his art is clearly demonstrated in the mutation
ing of what else I can do.” Weinstein’s seemingly simplified paintings
of his artistic styles from traditional representation to total hard edge
are brought down to the most basic elements to reveal the essence
geometric abstraction. “Just as quickly as I have developed my
of balance, symmetry, and harmony. He constructs lines and color
style, my paintings found an ever-growing audience from sales and
combinations on a flat plane in order to express general beauty with
appearances at Art Hamptons on Long Island and Art Expo in New
unfettered awareness, but not always with calculation. Works include
York and Scope Contemporary in Miami. Murray resides in Delray
floor sculptures, canvas boxes, as well as traditional wall pieces of
Beach, Florida with his wife Myrna, also an accomplished artist. He
varying sizes. He is led by his own intuition, which is channeled and
is currently represented by Blue Gallery in Delray Beach, where his
controlled by an innate rhythm. Murray creates forms of the esthetic,
works are very well received. ¨
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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3
4
5
6 7
1. Sunrise Sunset 2. Wall display at Blue Gallery 3. River of Dreams 4. What makes the World Go Round 5. Tower of Power 6. Gallery show, June 2018 7. Colorful Constellation
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
19
EVENTS + GATHERINGS
By David Green
FCBUZZ EVENTS
Director of Programs & Membership Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County
Introducing a New Integrated Website THE CULTURAL ALLIANCE OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY (CAFC) was pleased to launch its new integrated website (www.cultural alliancefc.org) in November 2018 -- and the response from our constituents has been overwhelmingly positive. The majority of our members have already completed their profiles and are adding new events every day making FCBuzz Events (culturalalliancefc.org/ fcbuzz-events/) the go-to place to find out what’s happening in theatre, music, art exhibits, science, history, lectures and so much
more throughout our region. With a year-long fundraising effort among our constituents, a crowdfunding campaign, and a very generous donation from Robin Tauck and the TRIP Foundation, we were able to complete the combined site and launch in November. The new site offers a superior experience for our members and provides a platform for us to share news, information, videos, and resources for our constituents. Our 600+ members represent more than 90% of all arts institutions in Fairfield County
– 260 nonprofit cultural organizations, 275 individual artists and preservationists, and dozens of creative businesses. This new website helps us continue to provide robust professional development and networking opportunities for our members, expanded marketing channels, increased advocacy on the local, state and federal levels, and cultural leadership programs to ensure that the arts are regarded as integral to our communities. Please visit the site and let us know what you think!
Looking for something different to do? FCBuzz Events is the place to find out what’s happening in Fairfield County any day of the week – featuring theater, exhibits, music, history, science, family fun, classes and local artists. Click on culturalalliancefc.org/fcbuzz-events/ and Pick a great event to attend, then Go – bring your family, meet your friends or fly solo. FCBuzz Events is presented by the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County. For more information contact the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County by emailing info@CulturalAllianceFC.org, calling 203-256-2329, or visiting the website at www.CulturalAllianceFC.org.
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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
TREVOR TONDRO
March 21–24, 2019 Piers 92 & 94 NYC Buy tickets now addesignshow.com
PRODUCED BY:
CO-LOCATED WITH:
DIFFA’S DINING BY DESIGN New York 2019 diffa.org
EVENTS + GATHERINGS
By Janet Langsam CEO, ArtsWestchester
Live At ArtsWestchester This Winter Photo by Ji Jeon
2
1
BEAT THE WINTER BLUES AT FAB. FUN. FEB. presented by ArtsWestchester in our downtown White Plains gallery. Start by celebrating the Year of the Pig at an afternoon of traditional Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese music, dance, crafts, games and food at our Lunar New Year Festival on Saturday, Feb 2, 2019. Enjoy an incredible array of performances, feast on foods with symbolic meaning, and revel in the good wishes for the coming year. The fun starts at 1pm with workshops in Chinese calligraphy and Korean drum-dance, followed by performances of the Chinese Lion Dance, the mysterious Bian Lian mask dance of the Sichuan opera tradition, Korean and Chinese folk dances, as well as variety of traditional instrumental music. Children under ten are free and tickets are a modest ten dollars. The Fab. Fun. Feb. continues with Speed Dating in the Gallery on Thursday, February 7 just in time for Valentine’s Day. Then, two special stand-up comedy evenings will be hosted in the gallery on Friday, February 8 and 9. Get ready to roll in the aisle laughing with
1. Enjoy fan dance performances and more at ArtsWestchester’s Lunar New Year Festival on Sat. Feb 2. 2. Part Generation-X, part Girl-Next-Door Comedian Kerri Louise performs Friday, Feb 8 in ArtsWestchester’s intimate White Plains performance venue. 3. Award-winning vocalist Alexis Cole performs Feb 15 at ArtsWestchester.
two nights of women-empowered stand-up featuring acclaimed comedians Kerri Louise (Feb 8) and Judy Gold (Feb 9). Be sure to take advantage of our $50 special comedy package, featuring one ticket for each night, plus one beverage per show. The art of laughter perfected by these high-energy comics is certainly the ideal remedy for the mid-winter blues. But that’s not all! You and your sweetheart can join award-winning vocalist Alexis Cole and her trio for a romantic night of sultry jazz classics and audience requests at ArtsWestchester on Friday, February 15. Cole has been at the heart of New York’s jazz and cabaret scenes and has performed around the world. Next month, Alexis Cole’s Valentine’s Day Juke Box will feature Cole, accompanied by John DiMartino (piano), Steve LaSpina (bass) and Kenny Hassler (drums), playing a set of jazz favorites, followd by a set of audience requests, during which specific songs can be dedicated to loved ones
in our intimate White Plains performing space. And, if you prefer the visual arts - - save the date Sunday, March 3 to meet exhibiting photographers at the opening reception of ArtsWestchester’s exhibition, Modern Families. This upcoming exhibit focuses the camera lens on the families we’re given and the families we choose. Rarely-exhibited group portraits by Harlem Renaissance photographer James Van Der Zee will be presented alongside contemporary photography that illuminates the diverse definitions of family in our community. Exhibiting photographers include Barry Mason and John Shearer, among others. So, whether it’s dance, music, comedy or photography that inspires you- -the laughter and enjoyment of the arts, when experienced together, can warm the coldest days of winter. I hope you join us.
3
Photo by Andrew Bogard
Check out artswestchester.org for more information on these events, plus a full calendar of everything arts and culture in Westchester County.
For more arts, visit artsw.org The complete guide to the arts in Westchester /ArtsWestchester | @ArtsWestchester For more of Janet Langsam’s cultural musings, be sure to visit her blog at www.ThisandThatbyJL.com. For a full calendar of arts events visit: www.artsw.org. 22
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
February 2 – March 30 Featuring ceramic artists whose works represent the 12 zodiac animals that traveled to the Jade Emperor to solidify their place in the chinese calendar. Patti Warashina
40 Beech Street Port Chester, NY (914) 937–2047 www.clayartcenter.org
The Great Americans has been made possible with the generous support of the State of Connecticut through the Consortium of Connecticut Art Museums, CT Humanities, and Bouvier Insurance. Additional support has been generously provided by a group of Exhibition Fund donors.
Jac Lahav, Afong Moy—Cloud of Cerise, 2018. Oil on canvas, 80 x 32 inches.
FEBRUARY 9–MAY 12, 2019
Jac Lahav, Abraham Lincoln—Luminary Blue, 2009-2018. Oil on canvas, 80 x 32 inches.
PORTRAITS BY JAC LAHAV
Maddie Wardley, Meaghan Flaherty, and Genevieve Day
Joyce Miller, Steve Masker, and Helen Linn
Caption to go here about Tony Fusco and Robert Four, events and guests Co-Producers of the Boston International Fine Art Show
Eric Mourlot, Galerie Mourlot (NY) with Erica and Jeff Fotta
22ND BOSTON INTERNATIONAL FINE ART SHOW Strong Sales and Dazzling Selection Ensure Another Successful Art Show Boston, MA – Tony Fusco and Robert Four, Co-Producers of the Boston International Fine Art Show are thrilled to announce the success of the 22nd annual event. Forty-one galleries and individual artists with a wide range of historic, modern, and contemporary works offered more than 3,000 original works of art in multiple price ranges. The show opened with an exciting Gala Preview to benefit the Art for Justice Fund, a new fund focused on fighting mass incarceration in America. The evening raised close to $20,000 for the fund. Programs were offered throughout the weekend as well as three special exhibitions. Attendees enjoyed an “Art & Finance” series, as well as a behind the scenes look at the landscape and art of Olana, Frederic Church’s home in the Hudson River Valley. Ongoing throughout the weekend was; The Writing on the Wall, a
Actor/Artist Greg Vrotsos, Helena Huang; Art for Justice/Ford Foundation, and Tony Fusco; Co-Producer
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collaborative installation from poems, diagrams, notes, and stories from incarcerated people around the world; the African American Master Artists in Residence Program (AAMARP) showcasing an exhibition and sale of selected works from the artists; and Trefler’s popular restoration and restoration clinic. Strong sales were reported across the board from new and returning dealers. Returning to the show after a two-year hiatus, Colm Rowan Fine Art (NY & PA) sold a number of contemporary sculptures and large painting. New to the show, Parco Fine Art (MA) sold well with their traditional Cape Ann Art. Miller White Gallery (MA), J.W. Reilly Fine Art (MA), Avery Galleries (PA), and Questroyal Fine Art (NY), among others all reported strong sales. The Art for Justice Fund makes grants to organizations, advocates, and artists leading impactful and cutting-work to safely reduce jail and prison populations across the country while strengthening education and employment opportunities for people leaving the system. The fund was started in 2017, when visionary arts advocate Agnes Gund donated 100 million from the sale of a beloved painting to show that art can be a force for justice. Money raised from the Gala will be invested back into the fund’s strategic reforms. www.ArtforJusticeFund.org The 23rd Annual Boston International Fine Art Show dates have been set for October 24 – 27, 2019 at the Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts. As usual the show will open with a Gala Preview on Thursday, October 24 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. The show continues throughout the weekend Friday 1-8, Saturday 11-8, and Sunday 11-5. For more information and special announcements, sign up for the newsletter at www.FineArtBoston.com. Photography by Tara Carvalho • Media Partner Venü Magazine
EVENTS + GATHERINGS
Honoree Dena Kaye, Board Chair Vin Cipollla, Arts Arena Founder and Artistic Director Margery Arent Safir
Nancy Umanoff, Mark Morris, Honoree Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Lisa Rinehart
Honoree Robert Storr, Honorary Gala Chair Ambassador Jane Hartley, and Owen Laub
THE STARS LINE-UP IN NYC Following a series of events in New York City over the last three years, the Paris-based non-profit The Arts Arena held its inaugural gala in New York at the Plaza Hotel on October 26.
The gala room, Nikolay Khozyainov playing music from Parade Gala Chair Lehn Alpert Goetz and Jennifer Ringo Conlon
Parade: Vive les Artistes! echoed the non-profit’s own multidisciplinary activities by honoring five exceptional visionaries and cultural leaders: Mikhail Baryshnikov (dance), James Ivory (film), Dena Kaye (arts philanthropy), Robert Storr (visual arts), and Robert Wilson (theater). The presenters were almost as stellar as the honorees themselves: choreographer Mark Morris, actor Sam Waterston, Mr. Baryshnikov, arts philanthropist Agnes Gund, and dancer/choreographer Lucinda Childs respectively. New York City Commissioner for Media and Entertainment (newly-appointed Census “czar” for NYC) Julie Menin gave welcoming remarks. The impressive New York presence beyond the honorees and presenters included Honorary Gala Chair Ambassador Jane Hartley, Gala Committee members Elizabeth Belfer, Jennifer Ringo Conlon, Kate Lear, Stephen Scher, Ian Wardropper, and Board Chair Vin Cipolla. Joining them at the sold-out event were guests from Paris, California, and South America. Russian pianist Nikolay Khozyainov and American countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo performed. Taking its theme from the 1917 multidisciplinary Paris premiere of the fabled ballet Parade, created by Jean Cocteau, Erik Satie, Léonide Massine, and Pablo Picasso for Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes, the gala raised funds for The Arts Arena to continue its mission of presenting the highest quality cultural events and artists free of charge to the broadest possible audience, regardless of financial resources. Congratulations to The Arts Arena for a spectacular, triumphant entry into the New York gala world. Photography by Julie Skarratt James Ivory and Dena Kaye
Honoree James Ivory speaking, Sam Waterston looking on
Jane Hartley, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Honoree Robert Wilson Lucinda Childs and Darryl Pinckney
Robert Storr, Agnes Gund, and Rosamund Morley
Olivia Cipolla and Ebony Williams
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Vignette / Award-winning designer, Billy Ceglia, is known for his hip, modern, and witty flair
Designer for TUSK- Home & Design, Shannon Stirling
Ann Franzen, Co-chair of the 24th Annual Rooms with a View, with architect Jack Franzen, who has designed three vignettes over the years
Vignette by Cynthia Ferguson Designs of Toronto
Vignette by Designer/Author Danielle Rollins of Atlanta
Vignette designers Lauren and Suzanne McGrath describe their vignette at the Saturday Night Champagne Tour with Dinner by Paci Restaurant
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Vignette design by Tina Anastasia of Mark P. Finlay Interiors
ROOMS WITH A VIEW Highlights from the Multi-Faceted Design Event, November 1-4, 2018 “Rooms with a View has been the premier, multi-faceted design event in Fairfield County since 1995. Launched and led by Albert Hadley, legendary interior design icon, Rooms with a View has been a leading supporter of meaningful community programs in the greater Bridgeport area, having raised over $1,700,000 in the last 23 years. Together with chefs, designers, artists, vendors, and patrons this fundraiser of the Southport Congregational Church is making a difference in people’s lives through outreach and financial support,” said Ann Franzen, Rooms with a View Co-chair and volunteer for the last 24 years. The show opened to the public with a Gala Event on Thursday evening, November 1, 2018. Some of the highlights of the weekend included the Gala Party Thursday evening, featuring cocktails and fabulous hors d’oeuvres by the top restaurants of Fairfield County, with a robust silent auction. Friday featured a popular luncheon with Rondi Charleston, singer/songwriter/ bandleader, and one of the Jazz world’s premier storytellers. Rondi’s critically acclaimed new album, Resilience, highlights 6 original compositions as well as some old-time favorites. Saturday evening featured an exceptional Champagne Tour of the Vignettes and Gourmet Dinner by Paci Restaurant. On Sunday, a Gingerbread House Workshop was held in the main tent along with an extra-special Bloody Mary Bar. In addition to the wonderful designers, a new concept launched for The SHOPS at ROOMS with a VIEW, with more than 30 vendors from around the country who are selling their crafts, antiques and decorative accessories while the SHOPS Café offered treats! Photography by Ann Franzen • Media Partner Venü Magazine
EVENTS + GATHERINGS
Michael Saylor, Evva Fenison, Michael Moore, and Dr. Mark Luther
Jay Wade, Patty Elkus, and Glen Allen
Richard Snow
Phillip Bell, Kristal Ambrose
SEAKEEPERS CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY Michael Saylor
The International SeaKeepers Society Hosted Founders 2018 Honoring SeaKeeper of the Year, Michael J. Saylor and Recognizing the 2017-2018 DISCOVERY Yacht Fleet.
The International SeaKeepers Society hosted their 20th Anniversary Founders Dinner on November 1, 2018 in Fort Lauderdale, a dynamic evening highlighting the work of SeaKeepers in partnership with the yachting community, at a private waterfront residence. Founders 2018 took place on the evening of the opening day of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. A seated dinner with cocktails and entertainment on the waterfront provided the backdrop with Captain Sandra Yawn of Below Deck Mediterranean as the emcee for the evening. Guests were also invited to board DISCOVERY Yacht Usher from Fleet Miami that was docked at the property. The event honored Michael J. Saylor as the 2018 SeaKeeper of the Year for his outstanding leadership and support of SeaKeepers programming. Additionally the Nextgen SK Award was presented to three finalists: Kristal Ambrose, Philip Bell of Northrop & Johnson and Marissa Miller for their efforts as a younger generation of leadership engaged with ocean conservation and/or awareness. The Honorary Guest for the evening was The REV Ocean ProjectFounded by Kjell Inge Røkke. A 20th Anniversary welcome video reflecting on the work and mission of the International SeaKeepers Society was presented to guests, and was dedicated in memoriam to one of the founding members of the organization, Paul Allen. The 2017-2018
DISCOVERY Yacht Missions were also presented to guests which included scientific expedition highlights, educational outreach programs, instrument deployments and programming partners. Several SeaKeepers VIP guests were in attendance: Board Chair, Michael Moore; SeaKeepers Asia Chairman, Julian Chang; Vice Chairman of the Board, Jay Wade; Board Members Glen Allen, Mark Luther and and Board Member Emeritus, Patty Elkus. The following vessels from 2017-2018 DISCOVERY Yacht Fleet were recognized: Archimedes, Asean Lady, E Cruz, Julia, Key of Sea, Luzerne, Marcato, Mystique, Halo, Sam, Shredder, and Timely Sale. Photography by Betty Alvarez Media Partner Venü Magazine
Tony Gilbert, Julian Chang, Glen Allen, Chris Walsh, Jason Halvorsen, and tk name
About the International SeaKeepers Society® The International SeaKeepers Society is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization focusing on the health of the world’s oceans and climate. SeaKeepers works with the boating and yachting community to take advantage of their unique potential in order to further marine research and to raise awareness about the issues our oceans face. The International SeaKeepers Society acts as a global catalyst working with governments, scientists, industry, and other marine organizations to further its mission and to support sensible, achievable marine protection and restoration. For more information visit www.seakeepers.org
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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STYLE:
Guide
FUN IN THE SUN Whether your a sport enthusiast or a style maven, Maui Jim’s 2018 Winter Collection has something for everyone. Inspired by the beaches of Hawaii these fashion-forward fames are now available at mauijim.com
YOU’RE A GEM Perfect for the woman you love, THOMAS SABO introduces a new line of jewelery that radiate happiness and positive energy. Available Jan through March in all Thomas Sabo shops and online at thomassabo.com
STYLE & CLASS
TURNING HEADS Introducing the new Sony PS-LX310BT wireless turntable. Listeners can now transport their vinyl music into the present day. Available this spring from select Sony authorized audio dealers. For more information visit sony.com/electronics/audio
Chic Showroom and Extravagant Buys this Winter
BREATH EASY Awaken your senses and experience healing from head to toe with an assortment of GuruNanda’s pure essential oils. Individual bottle and packages are available for purchase at gurunanda.com
WATCH OUT The Kate Spade New York Spring 2019 scallop smartwatch 2 collection is available just in time for Valentine’s Day gifting. This smartwatch is the perfect fusion of function and femininity with features including heart rate tracking, payment technology, GPS capabilities and more. Purchase is store or online at katespade.com 28
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Fine Pet Accessories 250 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach 561-833-1973 www.shopbibi.com
Come find out!
LANCE WOVEN LEATHER
The judging is almost over. The winners will be announced. Come experience the best wines of THE Rosé Competition 2019, an international rosé competition, plus reds and whites.
social event
April 7, 2019 | 6 PM - 8 PM
LONDON PARIS
For more information and tickets www.sipsocial.live/tickets
H O N G KO N G N E W YO R K
C H A R L E S TO N
LOS ANGELES
@ l a n c ewove n l e a t h e r
Every SIP event provides a unique experience for guests to sip red, white and rosé wines that participated in both the American Fine Wine Competition and THE Rosé Competition throughout the year.
APPETITE
By Fred Bollaci
Sarasota: Sunny, Sophisticated Gulf Coast Gem Features Some of Florida’s Best Dining MY FAMILY AND I have had the privilege to call Sarasota home—at least part-time since 1990. In the past nearly thirty years, we have witnessed a coming of age of the local food scene, which has never been better! You heard it here—the hottest ticket in town this season is Sage Restaurant, by renowned local celebrity Chef Chris Covelli (a longtime instructor at Sandra Lotti’s Toscana Saporita in Tuscany and Judge on Chopped), housed in the beautifully renovated Sarasota Times Building (circa 1926) with a fabulous rooftop bar overlooking Sarasota Bay. People visiting the area ask me all the time to recommend a special occasion place. My go-to’s are Maison Blanche on Longboat Key— elegant, refined, French influenced by Paris native José Martinez. Euphemia Haye, where Chef Ray’s cuisine (must have Duck, Zucchini Noodles, Eggplant, and Caesar Salad are tops in the area), combined with warm hospitality and Beach Bistro, “foodie heaven” overlooking the beach on Anna Maria Island. As an Italian-American and student of Italian culture, language, and cuisine, the area boasts an amazing selection of authentic regional Italian restaurants. Thirty years ago, this was practically unimaginable. Start with La Scarpetta featuring the cuisine of Modena, Puccini’s, like an Italian supper club (must reserve, and may even walk right past the hidden gem), Bologna Café in Osprey, Sardinia, featuring the cuisine of the beautiful island, Pino’s (Neapolitan), Napulé (best pizza in town and Neapolitan specialties),
Snapper Dish at Roessler’s
Seafood lovers will delight in Steve Phelps’ Indigenous. Enjoy creative preparations and cocktails at Jack Dusty in the Ritz-Carlton, and the best stone crabs at Spanish gem, Columbia on St. Armand’s Circle. Also check out Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB) for local flavor in Siesta Village, and Crab and Fin on St. Armand’s is a favorite, especially al fresco with the piano player. Overture at the new Art Ovation Hotel and Louie’s Modern will delight with their combination of style and fashionable cuisine. Top local Chef Paul Mattison continues to delight in several locations (among them being Mattison’s 41 and downtown). Café L’Europe has been a favorite for years, and even has a pet friendly area outside. BBQ fans should visit Nancy’s. Carnivores should check out Ruth’s Chris, (Sun-Fri in the lounge), Hyde Park Steakhouse, Fleming’s, The Summerhouse on Siesta Key, and the Capital Grille in the UTC Mall. Craving something healthy and homemade? Simon’s Coffee House a family affair, now serving dinner with fantastic creations by Chef Tyler Kirby. Melange and C’est La Vie is another downtown favorite. Top brunch spots include Shore (St. Armand’s), Station 400, and Boca. Old Florida charm abounds at the casual Casey Key Fish Dim Sum at Yummy House
Above: Imported Prosciutto and Zucchini Flowers filled with herbed ricotta at Napule’
Cassariano (from Mineola, LI with locations in Venice and by the UTC Mall), Mediterraneo, a long-time favorite, Primo, a veteran near the airport, Andrea’s (from Piemonte), Angelo’s (must try the pasta tossed in the parmesan wheel), Ortygia (Sicilian in Bradenton), and Café Barbosso for NY-style Italian-American favorites in artsy digs (the owner is Joe DiMaggio’s nephew). For Chinese, Yummy House (locations also in Tampa, Orlando, Ocala, and Gainesville)— featuring an extensive menu and dim sum carts on the weekend (dim sum available daily for lunch off the menu). Japanese fans should try Saga Japanese Steakhouse where Max has been wowing guests for over 25 years, J-Pan, DaRuMa (two locations, plus Ft. Myers and Naples), and Pacific Rim. Get your Pho fix at Pho Calli downtown. Thai fans will enjoy Bangkok, Siam Orchid and Spice Station. Grecophiles will appreciate Apollonia (two locations), Blu Kouzina, and El Greco (try the pizza). For upscale Peruvian and tapas, try Darwin’s.
House and Owen’s Fish Camp. Michael’s on East and Bijou Café remain the gold standard. Roessler’s just south of town has been delighting diners for decades—the best of tableside preparations with skilled tuxedoed servers and Ophelia’s is still the place to dock and dine. In Venice, don’t miss three waterfront legends: Sharky’s at the Pier, Fin’s (upscale sib) on the Gulf, and the Crow’s Nest and hidden gem Chaz 51 in Nokomis. If you’re headed south to Boca Grande for the day or weekend, my favorites are The Pink Elephant (casual and fun) and The Dining Room at The Gasparilla Inn, and The Temptation for local seafood.
Fred Bollaci’s first book, “The Restaurant Diet” (Mango Publishing) features recipes from 100 top restaurants nationwide, including nine restaurants in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, and is available for purchase nationwide and on Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com! www.fredbollacienterprises.com 30 30
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
Just A Little Overboard.
West Palm Beach waterfront along Flagler Drive pbboatshow.com THURSDAY - SUNDAY MARCH 28 - 31
APPETITE:
Venü Vines
Moshin Vineyards and Winery Sonoma’s Best Kept Secret Celebrates 30 Years of Small-Lot, Handcrafted Wines!
the true Méthode Champenoise, the original method of producing Champagne in France, which requires a secondary fermentation in the bottle, accomplished by adding a mixture of sugar and yeast, called the liqueur de tirage, to still wine. This wine is then bottled and capped, with a bottle cap similiar to ones found on beer bottles – not a cork. The yeast acts on the sugar and the resulting carbon dioxide remains trapped in
MOSHIN VINEYARDS AND WINERY began in 1989 as the dream of Rick Moshin, a San Jose State University math instructor – and with the Moshin Family’s purchase of a ten-acre Pinot Noir Vineyard located in the beautiful Russian River Valley, near Healdsburg in Sonoma County, California. The location is exceptional; Moshin’s estate vineyards lie along Westside Road between neighboring Pinot Noir pioneers Gary Farrell, William Selyem and Rochioli. Today the estate features a unique 4-tier Gravity Flow Winery and control of 25 acres of grapes – mostly Pinot Noir. The goal at Moshin Vineyards is to carefully guide the grapes through the winemaking process and produce wines that express a truthful view into the heart of the vine, employing sustainable practices through the use of gravity-flow and solar energy and a “minimally invasive,” winemaking philosophy. Moshin specializes in small lot, hand crafted wines, which include Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel. A very limited amount of Estate Pinot Noir is made into sparkling wine utilizing 32 32
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BUBBLY & BRIGHT The 2013 Brut Rosé Sparkling Wine features 100% Estate grown Pinot Noir with blush color and tiny bubbles. It is crisp and elegant with a beautiful nose and flavors of red berries and rose petal. This wine is bottled and capped to rest on the yeast for three years before disgorging, where the cap is removed and replaced with the traditional cork with wire cage. This is very limited production, with less than 100 cases. This wine is only available at the winery or the online store.
the bottle. Quality sparkling wines are usually left on their yeast for several years. It is important to note that the secondary fermentation happens in the bottle in quality sparkling wines. You are invited to join Moshin’s Wine Club: members enjoy the most exclusive lots, making membership a fun and special way to experience the artistry and dedication of Moshin’s winemaking team. A Wine Club membership guarantees access to winemaker-grown estate single vineyard Pinot Noirs, Pinot Blanc and sparkline wine. Average case production on each of these wines is only 5 to 6 barrels. ¨ The Moshin Family and their knowledgeable and friendly staff invite you to visit for an unparalleled taste of wine country, where you will feel like part of the family! Tasting at the Winery daily from 11:00am - 4:30pm Tours are available by appointment only. 707-433-5499 ext. 104. For more information visit: www.moshinvineyards.com
Owned by Gianni Minervini, “Palm Beach’s #1 host” and Claudio Trevisan, the dynamic duo combined their names and talents to create Trevini Ristorante in
2000, which quickly became an island favorite. The cuisine is authentic regional Italian, beautifully presented and highlights foods from Gianni’s native Bari, in
Puglia and Claudio’s native Stresa on Lake Maggiore in Northern Italy. Located in the lovely, historic Bradley Park Hotel, the beautiful outdoor courtyard is a
favorite in nice weather, and the contemporary dining room is always fashionable, where Gianni and his gracious staff make everyone feel special.
Venü Magazine’s Après Palm Beach Boat Show-Palm Beach End of Season VIP Reception MONDAY, APRIL 1, 2019 5:00-7:00 pm Join us for cocktails and hors d’œuvres Author and Venü writer Fred Bollaci will be signing copies of The Restaurant Diet, which features recipes from Trevini and 100 top restaurants nationwide. RSVP TODAY call 561-833-3883 or email: trevini-event@venumagazine.com
APPETITE:
Venü Vines
The Best Four Day Weekend in Sarasota: Florida Winefest & Auction Florida Winefest & Auction Celebrates 29 Years as “The Friendliest Wine Festival in the Nation” Benefiting children’s charities in Sarasota! Written by Fred Bollaci
2019 MARKS THE 29TH YEAR OF FLORIDA Winefest & Auction. Mark your calendars and purchase your tickets now! This year’s festivities run from Thursday April 4, 2019 through Sunday April 7th. Venu Magazine and Fred Bollaci Enterprises will be back as proud media partners, for what is known as “the best weekend of the year to be in Sarasota.” Guest Master Sommelier, Michael Jordan of Jackson Family Fine Wines will be presenting at this year’s events. Jordan is one of only 15 people in the world awarded both Master Sommelier and CWE (Certified Wine Educator) diplomas. A veteran restaurateur and “Sommelier for the People,” Jordan is Director of Global Key Accounts for Jackson Family Fine Wines, traveling
Venu Magazine is proud to continue our sponsorship of Florida Winefest along with Fred Bollaci Enterprises. We look forward to seeing old friends and new in Sarasota this spring!
Photo courtesy Jackson Family Fine Wines
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the globe working with key decision makers and hospitality industry leaders specializing in education and training sommeliers and service teams. Jordan also hosts a weekly radio show, What’s Cookin’ with Wine on many AM radio markets across the country and podcast on CRN Digital Talk Radio. With over forty years in the hospitality and restaurant business Michael worked his way up to executive chef, and later roles as GM and Sommelier of several world-class restaurants. Passionate and friendly, he demystifies the world of wines as an “Ambassador of Flavor” for wine lovers across the globe. Among his achievements: Jordan was Global Manager of Wine for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts® Worldwide, President of The Beachcomber Restaurant Group, VP of F&B for Anaheim’s THE RANCH Restaurant & Saloon, top rated by Zagat, and Michael opened and operated the world famous Napa Rose Restaurant at Disneyland Resort. Jordan also opened and managed both the award winning Pinot Provence Restaurant and “AAA Five Diamond” rated Pavilion Restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel in Newport Beach, CA. To understand what a “big deal” it is to become a Master Sommelier, and what a priceless opportunity it will be to meet and explore wine with one, I highly suggest you pop open a bottle of Pinot Noir (or your favorite wine) and watch the movie “Somm.” ¨
Y O U R 2 0 1 9 W I N E F E S T I T I N E R A RY
DAY 1: Thursday, April 4 11:00–11:45 AM: Events kick off with a sparkling wine reception presented by Pique Nique Sur la Baie, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Azunia Tequila Bar. 12:00–1:30 PM: Reserve your seat for a luncheon on the water at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall ($175 per person). This event with include a contest for the “Most Extraordinary” hat—ladies are encouraged to dress it up! Gentlemen…. you’re invited too!
Photo by Cliff Roles
6:30 PM: The evening brings an exclusive dinning experience featuring wines from Jackson Family’s World Class Wineries, paired with a gourmet menu by Chef Paul Mattison and Master Sommelier Michael Jordan at a private residence overlooking Sarasota Bay. Tickets are limited to just 24 at $325 pp. Wine selections may include Cambria Rosé, Matanzas Creek Sauvignon Blanc, Stonestreet Chardonnay, Hartford Court Seascape Pinot Noir, Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cambria Tepusquet Ranch Syrah. For additional dinner venues, visit www.floridawinefest.org
Florida. Meet and mingle with winemakers and winery representatives showcasing their most sought-after wines. 2:00 PM: Immediately following lunch at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall will be a Master Wine and Cheese Seminar featuring “Santa Barbara County - Sand and Fog”…presented by Master Sommelier Michael Jordan, “A delicious deep dive into the most unique wine region in California, amazing wines paired with world class cheeses!” The event will be limited to 50 people and last 1 hour. ($45.00 pp). Wines will include: Nielsen Santa Barbara County Chardonnay, Cambria Estate Katherines’ Chardonnay SMV, Brewer Clifton, SRH Chardonnay, Cambria Estate Julia’s Pinot Noir SMV, Brewer Clifton SRH Pinot Noir, and KJ VR Syrah Santa Barbara County. 6:30 PM: Taste the best of Sarasota at Banquet on the Block, one of Winefest’s most celebrated culinary events. The elegant dining table stretches down Lemon Avenue perfectly dressed and seats 200 people. A true food and wine experience you don’t want to miss! Sip and savor a stellar selection of wines and mingle with friends. Your taste buds will dance as you relish savory dishes presented by one of 6 participating chefs.
10:00 AM: Catch the second Master Class of the weekend at the Van Wezel: “Deductive Blind Tasting like a Master Sommelier” for Wine Experts and Novice Wine Drinkers presented by Master Sommelier Michael Jordan. Guests will learn how to “Blind Taste” wines by using the Deductive tasting process of Master Sommeliers. This promises to be educational, entertaining and fun! (1.5 hours, $55 pp). 11:00 AM–1:00 PM The Grand Tasting, Brunch, & Charity Auction takes place at the Van Wezel from, with the auction starting at 1:30 PM. ($150 pp). The Grand Tasting will feature wines from more than 70 wineries, who will showcase their best vintages and most sought-after wines. Sip a tasty Bloody Mary from the Tito’s Vodka Bloody Mary Bar with all the fixings! Savor a selection of signature dishes from favorite local restaurants. The charity auction will feature wines, lavish dinners, jewelry, adventure travel to destinations like Napa, Sonoma, Italy, Aspen, and more. DAY 4: Sunday, April 7
DAY 2: Friday, April 5 11:00 AM–2:00 PM: Don’t miss the popular Bayfront Consumer Lunch Tasting at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall ($60 pp), a wine-and-food paradise under the elegant Winefest tent with dozens of fine wines from participating wineries and food by some of the best food purveyors in
DAY 3: Saturday, April 6
Photo by Rod Millington
Florida Winefest & Auction has awarded over $8.5 million benefiting 85 local children’s charities in Sarasota and Manatee Counties on Florida’s West Coast.
1:00–4:00 PM: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon sipping wine, listening to music and enjoying the view at Wine on the Water at the Van Wezel. Food is available for purchase. You are invited to enjoy the venue and music outside of the Tasting Tent at no charge, however, to gain access to the Tasting Tent, a ticket must be purchased. ($25 per person for 6 tastes of wine). For more information and for tickets, visit www.floridawinefest.org CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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Christopher Creek & Castello Foppoli Photo by Marcos Guerrero
A Tale of Two Exclusive Wineries in Sonoma, California, and Mazzo di Valtellina, Italy Written by Fred Bollaci Photography by Antonella Catalana
Photo by Eva Fan courtesy of Unsplash
APPETITE:
Venü Vines
CHRISTOPHER CREEK WINERY IS A FAMILY OWNED,
Christopher Creek has earned hundreds of awards for
boutique winery with a long history of producing award
its wines since the beginning in 1974. Without question,
winning, handcrafted, and estate-bottled wines with an
the legendary Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc have
annual production of around 4,000 cases. Christopher
paved the path to success. Today, the winery has expanded
Creek is located just outside the beautiful, charming town
its portfolio to include Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel,
of Healdsburg, California on 11 rolling acres in the famous
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Rosé, and Port. Growing
Russian River Valley AVA, with another 27 acres planted
quality grapes is the primary focus in developing great
high on Bradford Mountain in the nearby Dry Creek AVA.
wines, from there, all wines are hand harvested and hand
The first grapes were planted in 1972, with the winery
crafted by artisan winemaker, Mike Brunson, to ensure top
opening up shortly thereafter, in 1974. Those first vines
quality. With the growing interest in the French Rhône style
are still producing exceptional wines, and can be enjoyed
wines, Christopher Creek offers the opportunity to taste
daily in the form of the delicious Reserve Petite Sirah and
wines produced from old vines. The vineyard, located in
Reserve Syrah. Christopher Creek Winery sits on fruitful
the Northern part of the Russian River appellation, where
land bearing Estate Syrah and Petite Sirah Vineyards. These
the climate is warmer, produces some of the best Syrah
42-year-old vines produce fewer and fewer grapes as they
and Petite Sirah in the area. You are cordially invited to visit Christopher Creek and join their exclusive wine club! Benefits include being
The Foppoli family has been making boutique wines in California for nearly 100 years.
able to visit wine country and book the Christopher Creek Estate House—we have stayed there, and can assure you there is no equal. The spectacular Christopher Creek estate house has been repurposed
age but continue to grow in quality with each vintage. The
and into the ultimate perk for the wine club family. The
15 acres in the Dry Creek Valley produce Zinfandel, Caber-
nearly 4,000 sq ft house features deluxe accommodations
net Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Chardonnay
and sleeps up to 10 people, with room for more for
and were planted 35 years ago.
dinner guests in the Estate House’s grand dining room.
With a history in the wine industry dating back to the
Membership in the Christopher Creek Wine Club ensures
1400’s in Italy, the Foppoli family, along with a few close
priority access and special discounted rates given to all
friends, acquired the winery in 2012 and have maintained the
Christopher Creek wine club members.
small, family-run feel that Christopher Creek has been known
2013 marked the first year that Christopher Creek had
for since the very beginning. The Foppoli family has been
ever opened up it’s grand estate house to guests. With
making boutique wines in California for nearly 100 years. The
one of the most magnificent views in wine country, sip on
American practice started 5 generations ago when Giuseppe
a glass of estate library wine by the pool as you overlook
Foppoli created a high-end private label in a small production
4 different premium wine appellations.
facility located in the famed Italian immigrant enclave North
In the mood for wine tasting? Healdsburg is one of the
Beach in San Francisco. Giuseppe only allowed the wine to
loveliest towns in California wine country, and is surrounded
be sold to a select list of long time customers and in the two
by dozens of incredible wineries. There are 10 premium
high-end private social clubs that he ran in the city. Today,
Russian River Valley wineries within 2 miles, the closest
Giuseppe’s grandsons and their father have woven these
being about 20 steps away from your back door at the
traditions into the fabric of Christopher Creek.
winery’s own tasting room where you and all of your guests CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
37
APPETITE:
Venü Vines
will receive complimentary VIP tastings experiences. In the mood for some serious after hours wine tasting? Maybe a 10 year vertical of Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner? The estate house comes with it’s own private cellar where you will have full access to the entire wine history of the winery going back to the 1980’s. Guests are 5 minutes to world class dining in Downtown Healdsburg or the winery arrange for a top private wine country chef to come to you and prepare a perfectly paired wine dinner as you watch the sunset over wine country from the grand dining room. Take laps in the pool overlooking the vines and sip while you soak in the brand new hot tub with endless breathtaking views. Wine Club membership is free—just sign up and you will receive and be charged for four shipments of exceptional wine per year. Choose from two popular options:
LEGACY CLUB 1 case at each release • Complimentary shipping on club releases • 4 cases of limited release wine annually • Invitations to special club member-only events • Private in-home tastings across the country • Concierge services for exclusive tasting appointments during your visit in the area • Complimentary 2 night stay at the Estate House with 50% off additional nights stays RESERVE CLUB 6 bottles at each release • 2 cases of limited release wine annually • Flat rate shipping applied to all club shipments • Invitations to special club member-only events • Concierge services for exclusive tasting appointments during your visit in the area • 50% off night stays at Christopher Creek’s Estate house (2 night minimum on weekends) VINTNERS CLUB 3 bottles at each release • 1 case of limited release wine annually • Invitations to special club member-only events • Concierge services for exclusive tasting appointments during your visit in the area • 25% off night stays at our Estate house (2 night minimum on weekends)
38
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
The Castello Di Pendenale (Foppoli) has stood as a fortress for more than a thousand years.
Now that you’ve joined the Christopher Creek family
Take the Bernina Express train through incredible
and enjoyed your visit to Sonoma, it’s time to pack your
alpine landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site -
bags for Northern Italy! Castello Foppoli, the family’s
it’s that amazing. Think of all the clichés about the beauty
ancestral home is nestled in the valley against the side of
of scenic train travel and multiply them by 1000. St. Moritz
the Alps, overlooking the commune of Mazzo, near the
welcomes guests from all over the world appreciate the
Swiss border. The Castello Di Pendenale (Foppoli) has
modern Alpine lifestyle, characterized by top-class restau-
stood as a fortress for more than a thousand years. You’ll
rants that can satisfy gourmet demands even by the side
live like kings and queens in the lavishly appointed Castello
of the slopes. The Via Serlas guarantees great shopping.
that tells the history of the valley and the story of the
Take in sights such as the leaning tower, a remnant of
Foppoli family. All while you enjoy your glass of wine or
the Mauritius Church from around 1500, or the Segantini
your espresso overlooking the vines on the grounds or
Museum. With so many amazing things to do and see,
the thousands that line the Valtellina, you simply get lost
you’ll be wishing you were a local too.
in the majestic gaze of the Alps surrounding you, and the
For an amazing wine experience unlike any other, with
sound of the dozens of historic church bells fill that the air.
roots on both sides of the Atlantic, Christopher Creek
The Castello sits on the route of the Giro d’Italia, Italy’s
and Castello Foppoli collectively offer wine lovers and
grand multi-stage bicycle race, and you can give it a try!
connoisseurs the ultimate experience you can return to
Enjoy a hike along the Sentiero dei Castelli and visit many
again and again! You have truly found your home in both
historic ruins of other Castello’s that once stood strong
world renowned wine region of Sonoma County, and now
along the valley. Or fish for trout in the Adda River, that
in magnificent Northern Italy. The Foppoli’s and McCor-
winds its way through the Valtelina, ending in Lake Como.
micks extend you a very warm welcome. Christopher Creek
A local personal cook for your stay is available so you
has been a longstanding participant in Florida Winefest
may experience the warmth of everyday local Italian life
& Auction in Sarasota, and the family has donated stays
and learn a few new cooking skills to bring back to your
at both properties for the charity auction to benefit local
own home.
children in Florida. If you are in Sarasota in April 2019, come
This magical part of Northern Italy is just a short train or
say ciao to Dominic and Liam and become part of the
private car away from beautiful Lake Como, Lake Garda,
famiglia. Then pack your bags for Sonoma, Italy, or both! ¨
St. Moritz and Bormio, which annually hosts the Alpine Ski World Cup. In addition to world class skiing, the town
Christopher Creek, 641 Limerick Lane, Healdsburg, CA
is noted for several wonderful thermal spas. The Bagni
95448, (707) 433-2001
Vecchi and ai Bagni Nuovi boast magical views, and a spa
For inquiries on prices and availability please contact
experience like no other.
jordan@christophercreek.com. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
39
FEATURE
ROTRAUT KLEIN MOQUAY
Sculptor, Painter, Muse
BY NONA FOOTZ
I SHOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER PREPARED FOR my first meeting with German-French artist Rotraut Klein Moquay. After we exchanged pleasantries and walked into her studio, I managed to squeak out some haltingly elementary Hochdeutsch, before she asked, “So, what do you feel?” We were standing in front of a large wall of her paintings and my stomach flipped. How does one answer that question; especially in front of the creator? Undoubtedly, I’d misinterpret (and disappoint) the master and her masterpieces. The studio was bright and cavernous with triple height vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows, vast white walls displaying paintings of multiple sizes; large, bold sculptures were arranged around the floor and at least ten smaller size sculptures poised on pedestals were either finished or being
40
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Left: Yves Klein and Rotraut in their apartment, 14 rue Campagne-Premwière, Paris, 1960. Photo by: Harry Shunk and Janos Kender © J.Paul Getty Trust. The Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles. Artwork: Yves Klein Estate, ADGP, Paris, 2018.
Photo by: Carole Morgane Hamel
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
41
FEATURE
prepped for an exhibit (I didn’t dare ask). I took in the room’s array
spirituality amongst the saguaros, gravel and sand; the
of primary colors, precise lines, geometric shapes, and noticed one
landscape was inspiring and raw, crowds didn’t exist
corner of the space was punctuated by the imposing black of a glossy
and there wasn’t a mall to be found. Rotraut had been
grand piano that was decorated with an assortment of white abstract
in this studio and neighboring home since then and I
shapes the size of grapefruits. It looked as if there were more rooms
envied her choice of real estate.
towards the back of the building; I looked beyond a long wooden
Born and raised in East Germany in the late 1930s
table filled with art books, toward floor-to-ceiling sliders leading to a
Rotraut Uecker and her brother Günther, grew up
patio, and another explosion of color and abstract shapes in the near
under the most challenging circumstances. Ravaged
distance, which of course I couldn’t wait to see, but tried to remain
by war, displaced, poor, hungry and seemingly desti-
focused on what Rotraut was saying about her art.
tute, the Uecker family had no choice but to live off the
The experience of being in Rotraut’s studio was surreal. She is a
land. The memories of that time resonate so strongly
globally accomplished and prolific artist; exceptionally sweet natured,
with Rotraut that she recited the sound of the scythe
petite, gentle in gesture, bright-eyed, soft spoken, international. But
violently chopping the beets – “chook! chook!” as she
she is also Yves Klein’s widow. Klein was the French post-war avant-
demonstrated for me how her father used to cut the
garde artist iconic for his trademark blue paint which he patented as
crops. She remembered with unmistakable clarity the
IKB – International Klein Blue – and his Anthropométries, where he
sound of water dripping from the farmhouse faucet
used male and female models for his body prints.
and how critical it was to capture every single drop
During my visit with Rotraut I wanted to know how she created her
so as not to go without, as they had for many days
broad range of work, where the wellspring of inspiration originated, what future exhibits were planned. But I also had a tough time stopping myself from casting a sympathetic eye and asking, “What was it like being married to Yves Klein? Do you miss him?” But I quickly realized this interview wasn’t about Yves. Yes, they had had an intense, whirlwind love that lasted four short years. Yes, there was the tragedy of unexpectedly losing Yves to a heart attack a mere five months after their 1962 wedding at Saint-Nicolas-des-Champs in Paris - the event that was meticulously planned and lovingly orchestrated by Yves from selecting Rotraut’s blue tiara to the attending fellow Knights of the Order of Saint Sebastian. And Rotraut was seven months pregnant with Yves’ child upon his death. Her condensed time with Yves was of course wildly emotional, exciting, dramatic and traumatic. Being side by side with the great French artist in work and in play was obviously
Above: Yves Klein and Rotraut during the rehearsal of the performance of Yves Klein, “Anthropometriesof the Blue Period”, Galerie Internationale d’Art Contemporain, Paris, 7 March 1960. Photo by: © Charles Wilp, BPK, Berlin. Artwork: Yves Klein Estate, ADGP, Paris, 2018.
magical and memorable but I soon discovered that Rotraut herself was the extraordinary one who had a story to tell.
42
during those difficult years. The experiences and
Her studio is tucked into an enclave of Phoenix, Arizona called
images remain intensely close to Rotraut’s core – she
“Paradise Valley.” Aptly named, it’s a tony zip code of sprawling
quickly recalls poignant moments, immediately feels,
estates, long winding driveways, mountain-framed 360-degree views,
and openly embraces these memories; they are deeply
gourmet shops, shiny Bentleys and Escalades. But Rotraut and her
rooted in her connection to the earth and to Nature
second husband, moved to The Valley 36 years ago, long after the
and ultimately her artistic sensibilities. They are what
Yves era, when it was quite a different landscape and most came
give her artistic life.
to enjoy the dry warm weather for health reasons during the winter
Encouraged by Günther, who was becoming an
months. 1982 was a time when Arizona was still considered The Wild
established artist himself, 19-year-old Rotraut moved to
West to some extent although tourism was starting to flourish and
Nice to continue her own budding artistic interests and
buildings were starting to rise. But Paradise Valley was still a commu-
became an au pair for French-American painter Arman
nity of cowboy culture, rustic adobe architecture, Indian heritage and
to earn some money. She first met Yves Klein in 1958
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
the New Vision Centre Gallery in London while also acting as muse and assistant to Yves Klein at the height of his career and yet he was supportive and encouraging of her work. They didn’t compete, he wasn’t possessive and the two were completely in-synch spiritually and creatively. After Yves died, Rotraut and their son, Yves Amu Klein, stayed in France so she could work and paint but it was also a time of grief, profound sadness and overall silence. Still young and in her 30s Rotraut began to slowly create again and by 1968 Rotraut met and married actor Daniel Moquay, and moved to Ibiza to start a fresh chapter of her life. Over the next 35 years Rotraut and Daniel had three children, moved back to France, spent several years in Australia, onto America and hosted exhibits around the globe. Rotraut was producing again – her mystical tie to the world was reignited and her sensations between her and Earth were more powerful deepening her views and desires. She was prolific and she was everywhere, exhibiting in Germany, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Chicago, San Francisco, Miami, Tucson and Phoenix. Photo by: Carole Morgane Hamel
Back in Paradise Valley, Rotraut and I walked amongst her 3-acre property; there must have been fifty large-scale aluminum and steel sculptures surrounding us – lacquered aluminum 100 inches high, 80
I CAN FEEL THE ELEMENTS, ALL THE TIME LIKE LIFE ITSELF.
inches wide and 60 inches deep; blue, red, pink, yellow, orange…color and motion everywhere set against the beige of the sand and yellow of the sunshine. I knew it was a tad corny but I swore the cloudless sky was also a shade of International Klein Blue that afternoon. Rotraut would stop walking when I’d ask a question and you could see she was compelled by the recounting of stories, the surfacing of memories and feelings. “It just comes” – she explained so simply when I asked about tapping into her artistic will. She talked about an innate sensitivity to space and the earth – she feels it, literally and spiritually. It speaks to her; “I can feel the elements, all the time – like life itself.” The creativity is just there and it’s hers to capture and use as if out of necessity. Like air, water, food, love.
after seeing a small red monochrome of his hanging in
Rotraut’s work is varied – the signature large scale sculptures; a
her employer’s home. She had previously seen a small
variety of gesso and acrylic paintings on canvas mounted on plywood;
blue monochrome by Klein in the window of Gallery
galaxy paintings produced during a Full Moon that are spatial com-
Schmela in Düsseldorf and found that the color was
positions of blue, black, speckles of white; relief sculptures; geometric
hypnotizing, intense. She decided at that moment that
paintings. After our discussion I felt that I was now better informed,
the artist was spiritual, beautiful, and she felt an imme-
and infinitely more curious about Rotraut’s work. She was celebrating
diate and electric connection; (“I knew him before I
a milestone birthday as this article was being written and I was already
ever met him.”). A flirtation ensued between the two
looking forward to another decade (or two) of work by this magnificent
once they were introduced and while she didn’t speak
artist so full of Life. ¨
a word of French at the time, they became inseparable and their shared passion of art was theirs to develop
Rotraut’s work and upcoming exhibitions can be found on
and cherish. Rotraut had her first exhibition in 1959 at
www.rotraut.com.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
43
FEATURE
WRITTEN BY FRED BOLLACI
FEATURE
Previous Spread: Screamers portraits. This Page Left: Framed Screams flyer, Below: Blowing Bubbles. Opposite Page: Super Woman
FOR OVER FIVE DECADES,THE VERSATILE EXPRESSIONS OF MIRIAM CASSELL,
only Yiddish was spoken, Cassell started school unable to speak English. Her eccentric and artistic penchant began at a young age and was influenced by the world around her. Two of her young cousins were stricken with Polio, which left them disabled for the rest of their lives. Cassell has approached life as a student and observer who “developed a lifelong empathy for people with disabilities or who were ‘a little different.’” Cassell explains,
fine artist and art activist have received extensive critical
“As an artist, my intention from the very beginning was
acclaim for her creations, which have underscored
to create a body of work which would influence and
sensitive subjects, pushing the envelope and sensitive
hopefully change for the better the way people viewed
social issues into the forefront. Born on Manhattan’s
the world around them…I have created works with varied
Lower East Side in 1940 to immigrant parents from
and unusual themes.” Cassell is known for being ahead
Poland and Romania and growing up in a home where
of her time—a forerunner and champion against injustice.
FEATURE
Throughout her storied career, Cassell has created
exhibited in The Carlyle Gallery, The Jack Gallery, and
outspoken images against social wrongs: intolerance,
The Book Arts Gallery. Posters of her art are distributed
sexual hypocrisy, marginalization of the handicapped,
internationally, and her work is in many private and
the Holocaust, domestic violence, cultural barriers, age
public collections. Cassell has appeared on radio and
discrimination, and the overweight. Her life size work
television and is a member of The National League of
in pastel paintings of people, book art constructions,
American Pen Women.
collages, prints, photography, wall hangings, multimedia
Perhaps Cassell’s most poignant television appear-
installations, and wearable art have been shown in
ance was when she was featured with her painting “A
numerous museums and galleries. She holds a Philip
Child’s Eye,” a portrayal of a young white man pushing
Isenberg Award from the Salmagundi Museum of
a black man who is seated in a wheel chair. During the
American Art in New York, and has exhibited numerous
creation of the painting, Cassell had a young girl fill in
solo and group shows at the Saratoga Art Gallery, the
the background of the painting with pastel chalk so she
Islip Art Museum, the Heckscher Museum, and many
would have the physical experience during the creation
other Long Island museums. In Manhattan, she has
process of relating to people who were different from CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE
47 47
This Page Clockwise: Angst in the Studio; Gun Control without border and statement; Self Portrait of Miriam Cassell. Opposite Page: Silk Screening Calendar
her, the artist explained. In 1980, she created a sev-
work is part of the permanent art collection of the
en-foot painting of her mother in the nude when she
United States.
was 70 years old to illustrate that beauty transcends all
Today Cassell lives with her husband Stuart, a New
ages. Of course, her mother became widely popular
York attorney, Brooklyn Dodgers, and everything
and loved all the attention!
“New York” sports fan in the beautiful Lido Shores
Cassell’s artistic expressions include other mediums
neighborhood of Sarasota, Florida. Her Florida home
as well. She renovated and redesigned a simple Victo-
was designed by Philip Hiss of the Sarasota School of
rian house overlooking Hempstead Harbor in Sea Cliff,
Architecture, which she has since redesigned and reno-
Long Island into one that was designated a landmark
vated, and serves as the couples’ home, studio, gallery,
in her community, and featured in newspapers and
and warehouse all-in-one, featuring overwhelming
magazines, including The New York Times, Newsday,
examples of her life’s work. Years ago, when Miriam’s
and The Wall Street Journal. This recognition led her
art began to “intrude” upon her husband’s space and
to serve as consultant to the White House during
Stuart expressed his desire to have one room in the
President Ford’s administration. Her work “Endangered
home where there was “no art,” he came home to find
Relations” was included in the Artist’s Book entitled
a hand-painted one-of-a-kind work of art from his wife,
“The New Covenant for the People…By the People”
a very large white canvas painted with the words, “NO
which was presented to President Clinton in 1993. The
ART ALLOWED IN THIS SPACE” in big black capital
FEATURE
letters, in his home office! The couples’ sense of humor has kept them together all these years. When I first met Miriam, some 25 years ago at a party at a mutual friend’s home in Sarasota, where my family and I had relocated from Long Island (ironically, we were practically neighbors for years on Long Island, having lived in Glen Cove, the very next town), I was quite taken by this cool, colorful (green and blue hair and 10 finger nails, each sporting a different color polish) with this charming “Fran Drescher” accent, but the piece de resistance had to be the business card—a nude self portrait, the artist said certainly turned a lot of heads in then slightly more conservative Sarasota! I loved meeting Miriam, and today, she, Stuart, her family, and mine are great friends! When asked what is her favorite fashion accessory today, Miriam related, “Most of the time I don’t
Cassell’s newest works contain an impressive range
wear matching color shoes. I create and wear purses with
of techniques—new concepts with past images in a
funny quotes such as ‘How many husbands have you
mixed media format combining digital art, sewing,
had?...Do you mean my own or other peoples’?” –Peggy
painting, drawing, collage, construction, photography,
Guggenheim. “I create funny jewelry and wear a ring
xerography, silk screening, and fiber. Recently, Cassell
that says ‘WTF’ (which means Welcome To Florida) and
won First Prize for her Art Installation at The National
a necklace that says Vintage Whore and I always wear my
League of American Pen Women Art Show in Venice.
silver gauntlet and sometimes my necklace made from
The installation first embodied women’s struggle to
pacifiers. I always create and wear a shawl or Kimono over
be taken seriously as artists, and then not only the
my long dress. Last but not least I always wear a headscarf
struggle but the advancement women have made in
to complete my outfit.” Cassell has created a style and
being recognized as artists—this struggle remains a
timeless persona all her own.
continuing one. ¨ CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
49
FEATURE
BY CINDY CLARKE
50
NO MATTER HOW MANY INDUSTRY AWARDS AND
The founder of several successful clothing companies,
accolades he has taken home in his 40+year career as a brand
including Country Britches, Country Roads by Robert Stock,
leader in the men’s fashion arena – he’s received the highest
Silk Road and Robert Graham, Robert Stock took his fashion
recognition there is for his menswear designs, earning the
cues from his father, a dapper dresser whose beautifully
coveted Cutty Sark, Coty, and AMY among them – Robert
tailored shirts inspired his son’s lifelong passion and success
Stock remains as refreshingly unpretentious and casually
with menswear design.
cool as his clothing lines. His collections, sophisticated and
“My father owned a gas station and would come home
stunning, pay homage to what today’s self-assured man is
covered with grease. Before he did anything else, he would
all about, confident and authentic with a timeless “wear-
take a shower and change into a beautiful shirt. His closet
what-I-like” fashion sense and laid-back swagger that speak
and drawers were filled with them in different colors, patterns
volumes about taste, tradition – and natural-born talent.
and designs. And every time he put one on, he would feel as
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Wearable art, colorful, creative and comment-worthy
FEATURE
great as he looked. I noticed the difference it made and it
own, following his instincts and inspiration to create and
resonated with me my entire life.”
sell the kind of clothes that made him – and his growing customer base – feel and look good. His Country Roads by Robert Stock Collection earned him the Coty Award
elf-taught and driven by an innate appreciation for
for “Best American Sportswear Designer” right out of
style and sophistication, Stock became the designer
the gate not long after he left Chaps and followed by a
to watch when he partnered with Ralph Lauren early
Cutty Sark Award, equivalent to that coveted gold Oscar
on in his career, launching the Chaps collection for
in the fashion industry, for “Leading American Men’s Wear
Polo after a chance meeting in a New York men’s store.
Designer.” In 2001, he changed direction yet again adding
“I was standing in for my boss who had an appointment
his brand of whimsical edginess and love of color to an
with a tie salesman,” explained Stock with a right time,
artfully composed luxury clothing line under the Robert
right place nonchalance that defies his own standing as
Graham label. His company became as wildly successful as
an award-winning fashion star. “He pulled up in a Morgan
his innovative designs were, waking up men’s clothing with
wearing a shearling coat and an aviator’s jump suit, hat
a bold off the cuff personality that put life into the tradi-
and goggles, box of ties in hand, and introduced himself
tionally conservative, ultimately staid, men’s wear industry.
as Ralph Lauren.” Their shared love of sports, color and fashion firsts fueled their conversations, igniting a friendship that grew as they
obert Graham, a truly eclectic design house named for
both went out on their own with their passion-driven cloth-
its two founding partners, Robert and English textile
ing ventures. Robert founded a company called Country
designer Grahame Fowler, garnered a reputation for
Britches that caught Ralph Lauren’s eye; Ralph, inspired by
the extraordinary anything-but-boring details and
a polo match he attended, started Polo, eventually collabo-
color they embroidered into their fashions during the 16
rating with Robert and launching Chaps together.
½ “wonderful” years Robert spent there as founder and
Pair two mega talents together and history is not only made, icons are born. Backed by their natural affinity to and understanding
cuffs with fabric linings and ribbon stitching distinguish his
of fashion and design, Polo and Chaps a.k.a. Lauren and
styles from the mainstream, giving carte blanche permis-
Stock, burst on to the fashion scene with a momentum that
sion to men wishing to indulge, borrowing a phrase from a
changed the way men dressed, creating a lifestyle brand
smitten admirer, their “inner peacock” and strut their stuff.
that was traditional, authentic and natural.
52
chairman of the board. Eye-candy color palettes, playful prints and patterns, boundary-busting buttons, contrasting
Ask Robert Stock to define the look that has become
Robert had already founded and sold a menswear
his signature trademark and he’ll describe it as wearable
company before he teamed up with Ralph Lauren to launch
art, colorful, creative and comment-worthy. “Never under-
Chaps, so while he enjoyed the excitement of seeing
estimate the desire to be noticed,” he remarked, noting
Chaps take off, he wanted to work his magic under his own
that both women and men enjoy compliments and getting
name again. So he did what he’s been doing throughout
attention. “It makes them feel good.” Which is, in a nut-
his career, he parted ways with Lauren and went off on his
shell, how he feels about his career. “I’m in the business
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
FEATURE
of selling feeling good,” he said with a smile in his voice,
Robert is all about individual style and extraordinary
adding that for him going to work is like playing in a sand
attention to detail. It appeals to men, from sports enthu-
box with colored sand and building things that come into
siasts to captains of industry, who know what they like and
his mind. He finds inspiration wherever he looks and he
whose artistic sensibilities are akin to those who collect art
never runs out of ideas.
or cars or fine wines and other investment quality “boys’ toys” that inspire their passion and personality. Like collectors who buy artwork out of pure joy, Robert’s cus-
hange is the name of the game in any industry if you
tomers wear their art on their sleeves, investing in exclusive
want to keep the momentum going and constant,
pieces that are of the highest quality and workmanship
fast-moving creativity is called for if you want to
and ones that make lasting a lifestyle statement for the
stay in Robert’s feel-good club. Add an always dis-
privileged few. Each item is a Robert Stock original, with
criminating eye for refined albeit unexpected details, a
a maximum of one hundred pieces per design. Seasonal
signature sense of worldly style and emerging trends,
lines are continually updated and uniquely designed with a
and an unerring vision for innovation that marries subtle
nod to emerging trends, a touch of humor and star power.
sophistication with surprise touches and you’ve got an
Custom clothing is also available to meet member needs
evolving picture of what’s been taking shape in Robert
upon request because, as Stock explains, “As a member of
Stock’s collection of late a few years after leaving Robert
Robert’s Club, you gain access to curated collections that
Graham.
meet your personal preferences.”
Just this past summer in July, 2018, imagination whirring, he introduced Robert to the world, once again challenging the status quo and astonishing the industry
obert partnered with Thomas Main in his newest
and men’s closets with his club-oriented limited edition
endeavor, collaborating with his friend and colleague
menswear collection, 100 percent new, noteworthy and in
of thirty-some years on exciting designs that are
a league of its own. The upscale brand, character-rich and
remarkably fresh and fanciful, inviting their members
artfully oriented, is available online only to members who
to live on the edge and dress without limits. Their work
join Robert’s Club where they can purchase hand-signed
is driven by three core concepts that seem to be not too
and numbered sportswear, from woven shirts, knitwear and
dissimilar to Robert’s own interests. They include what
sports coats to outerwear stunning in every way, bearing his
the founders call, the “Man of the Moment,” fashion
very distinctive signature, and made from the finest fabrics
that is not only current but trend-setting, “exceeding
available in Europe and Asia.
expectations and keeping the competition on its toes.” Their line of casual clothes fall into the “Man at Play” category, a nod to his “boys will be boys” mindset through clothing that boasts sports themes and witty executions. Think Superhero shirts, patchwork plaids, and pop culture patterns punched with color, fun to wear and fearless all with style names that conjure up the wearer’s hip alter ego. Dressed for the Occasion” is the brand’s wardrobe answer for the “Man on the Town” who needs to look sharp at “dinner down the street or a gala in the capital,” the masculine version of the proverbial little black dress that invariably turns heads when they walk into the room.
54
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
All the clothing is designed by Robert Stock and Thomas
his newest line of menswear not yet a year old, never fail to
Mann in New York City and in traveling studios that take
attract and impress industry fashionistas and his customers,
them around the world from India to Italy where it is made to
loyal and new, with their unequaled originality and spunk.
their exacting specifications by their trusted partners. Only
He answered with feeling from the heart, again tapping
six months old and already a hit, Robert’s Club, fee-based
into the honesty that is so evident in his clothing designs.
and exclusive, is positioned to be the ultimate go-to online
“I could have never had been able to be able to travel
closet for men who want to buy their clothes at the tap of
and develop the types of collections and designs necessary
a button 24 / 7 and have them delivered to their doorstep
to be successful without the support of my family. From the
effortlessly, dress at the top of their game all year round, look
first day we met, my wife Nancy, who is an accomplished artist
good wherever they go and feel exceptionally confident
herself, has always been a great collaborator and sometimes
about their wardrobe choices. “We offer suggestions on
critic of all of my design endeavors. And if it were not for all
their wardrobe, advice on fittings and offer opportunities to
my close relationships with my factories and mills around the
attend events hosted by Thomas and myself. What we do
world and especially my close relationship with my Indian
is give our members exclusive access to collections found
adopted family whose expertise in fabrics and clothing
nowhere else, transforming expectations of how client and
manufacture rival the world’s best, I would have never been
designer communicate. Given the ongoing shifts in the
able to produce the wonderful wearable art so many people
global fashion industry, we wanted to give our members
collect today. I am blessed to do what I love with the people
something different and deliver absolutely unique and
I love. For me this is what a successful life is all about.”
exquisite garments that not only delight them, but make a difference in how they feel wearing them.”
If clothes really do make the man, we want what Robert Stock is wearing. ¨
Creatives ourselves, we had to ask Robert how he keeps coming up with his ideas and designs. After all his eclectic
To learn more about Robert’s Club, membership benefits
lifestyle brands, from his first collection back in the 1970s to
and to become a member, visit robertsclub.com
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COVER STORY
L
E N A
Opposite Page: Nourishing the Soul
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Y O U N G
T H E P O W E R
H E A L I N G O F
A R T
WRITTEN BY LISA MIKULSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH STORRER
COVER STORY
I T ’ S
A
B I T
The news is dark and I close my Twitter feed which seems to always display a steady stream of ominous and heartbreaking headlines. It is evident that we are a global society in need of respite and healing.
A F T E R M I D N I G H T I
S I T
A N D
P R E PA R E W R I T E
A S
“Art opens the closets, airs out the cellars and attics. It brings healing.” - Julia Cameron Art is often looked upon as something that is not necessary. It’s one of the first things to be cut from school budgets and from gov-
T O
T H I S
A R T I C L E .
ernmental funding. As creatives reading this article, we may have experienced the raised eyebrows and concerned looks of family and friends when we announced our plans to enter the arts as a vocation. And yet, it is art which has most truthfully reflected and told the stories of our culture, our history, and our dreams. It is to art that many of us turn for a much needed intermission, for mindfulness, and for healing. Lena Young, a Boston artist working in abstract expressions, believes wholeheartedly in the healing power of art – for herself and for her
On my computer are a number of open tabs displaying my social
clients. Venü’s publisher Tracey Thomas, and I, first met Young at
media accounts and the websites I’m using as resources for work. I flip
Boston’s International Fine Art Show in October. I subsequently met up
through them one by one, closing the windows which are no longer
with the artist again on a warm autumn afternoon at a sidewalk cafe to
relevant to the self-imposed isolation I require for writing.
learn more about her work and her background in healing modalities.
Photo by Joyelle West
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Opposite Page: Self Portrait of Lena Young in her studio. This Page Clockwise: Transformation, Power, Brushes in morning light.
Young explains one of the personal experiences a viewer had to the vibrational transference of positivity while gazing at her work. “At a recent show, a young artist was drawn to the painting “Power.” He kept staring at it, seemingly transfixed on that work of art. There was something calling to him. He wasn’t sure what it was, but he felt a strong resonance with the piece,” said Young. “When I explained the message of the piece, a look of shock cossed his face. He had just stepped into his own power that morning and had At Harvard, Young studied Organismic and Evolutionary Biology
taken legal action against someone in authority who had harassed him.
and East Asian Studies with an emphasis on Buddhism and meditation.
Through the colors and composition of the painting, the intention of
She carried this education forward with focus on Eastern philosophy,
the piece spoke to him in a way that resonated with his being.”
yoga, qigong, energy healing, and life coaching. Through her paintings, she shares the healing that she has experienced for herself, the spiritual and psychological understandings she has discovered,
I too experienced this powerful resonance when first seeing one
and the positive vibrational transference which she feels is shared with
of Young’s canvas’ at the International Fine Art Show. It was a big
the viewers of her work.
reason why I ducked into her booth that evening – there was this CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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COVER STORY
particular work pulling me toward it. I was compelled by the canvas, its colors, and composition. It’s not often that I want to purchase art,
When asking Young about her process, she doesn’t give me the
but I wanted to take this piece home with me. When I asked Young
typical spiel intended as a means of persuasion or sales speak. She
about that canvas at our second meeting in Boston, she informed me
tells me that first and foremost, she is connected to and trusting in
that the title of that work is “Self Love”.
her intuition.
“I have found that people gravitate toward certain paintings that
“I am guided each step of the way, down to the brush that I use, the
speak to what they are going through or what they need at that
colors that I mix, and the strokes that I apply onto the canvas. During
moment in time. It is fascinating to see that when they find out the
the process, if my mind jumps in and begins to question or direct me,
name of the work that they are drawn to or the message behind the
I am immediately shut down. Everything comes to a halting stop. It is
piece, there is a moment of disbelief. It is almost as if the painting is
only when I am painting from my heart, connected to my soul and to
a window into their soul,” said Young.
the Universe, that the art can flow through me,” she says.
This Page Clockwise: Colorful paint bottles, Sweaping brushstrokes, Self Love Opposite Page: Breaking Through
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I F
I
C R E AT E
F R O M
T H E
H E A R T,
N E A R LY
E V E R Y T H I N G W O R K S : I F
F R O M
H E A D ,
T H E
A L M O S T
N O T H I N G . ” - MARC CHAGALL
“When the painting is finished, I receive a title for the work as well as a message. It is usually then that I understand what the piece is about.” In addition to residing in Boston and participating in Open Studios in SOWA, Young also spends time painting and exhibiting in China. “China was an unexpected venture for me. I went to China to learn
Banker on Berkeley and Tremont in the South End. In California, the
qigong and heard about an art village that was being built in a place
artist has several pop-up exhibitions happening in Laguna Beach as
called Dragon Tiger Mountain. I knew very little about the project or
part of the Laguna Art Walk - a monthly event open to the public - and
the place when I decided to stop by.
several pieces are on view at the Laguna Art Gallery.
“The village is nestled in lush greenery and situated across from
The success and positive reception of Young’s work stands as
majestic stone cliffs and tranquil waters. It is a mesmerizing place
testament to the ways in which art can calm us, heal us, and validate
that stirs the imagination and sparks creativity. I ended up staying for
our emotional needs.
several weeks and painted a whole collection of art. That year, I was
“I believe that the energy within a painting can stir something
offered an opportunity to open a gallery at the village and have been
deep within us especially when we are open and receptive. We may
exhibiting there ever since.”
notice that a particular painting can change our mood, our thoughts,
Thus far, Young has sold over 250 paintings from her studio in China and is planning on returning in February 2019. Her work is currently on exhibition in Boston as part of a group show at Coldwell
or even our state of being.” Young encourages us to trust in ourselves and to seek things in this world which bring us joy. Art can do that. ¨
You can view Lena Young’s work online at www.lenayoung.com at instagram.com/lenayoungart and at facebook.com/lenayoungart
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FEATURE
Artemisia Gentileschi (1593-1653), was a painter so gifted, and of such high caliber, that she was included in my traditional art history education — traditional art history, of course, being the study of white men creating for the visual arts. To understand how important this inclusion was, you need to know that during my study of approximately 500+ years of art, I can only recall perhaps four female artists being a part of the curriculum. Artemisia was bold in her depictions and strong willed in character. Her paintings and her personal life reveal an extraordinary woman who worked hard to secure a career which eventually found her a place in history. Her work has not just resonated over the last 400 years, but today is more relevant than ever in light of the MeToo movement. Despite success during her life time — she was eventually accepted by the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno and she received commissions from around Europe — there were many obstacles and her artistic acknowledgment was hard won. She was treated with disdain from her more “serious” male counterparts. Her work was often attributed to her father — during her life and after her death. And one incident was so severe in nature that it overshadowed her work, ruined her personal reputation, and changed her life.
FEATURE
Opposite Page: Susanna and the Elders, 1610, oil on canvas, 170 x 119 cm, Schรถnborn Collection, Pommersfelden, Germany This Page: Judith Slaying Holofernes, 1620, oil on canvas, 146.5 x 108 cm, Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy
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FEATURE
She was born in Rome on July 8th, 1593 to Prudentia Montone and Orazio Gentileschi, and it was her painterly father, Orazio, who undertook the training of his daughter as an artist. It wasn’t long before he recognized the genius that lay within his child. It was rare for a female to be working in the fine arts during the 17th century. The Gentileschi’s were not a particularly wealthy family, so it was due to Orazio being a professional painter which provided Artemisia
Self-portrait as the Allegory of Painting, 1639, oil on canvas, 98.6 x 75.2 cm, Royal Collection Trust, UK
with the opportunity to learn the craft. This was not a time period when women were encouraged to pursue careers. Nonetheless, Artemisia was a painter, and that was exactly what she was going to do. Her early orbit consisted of some of Rome’s greatest artists and this included the incendiary master painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, known to us as Caravaggio. Caravaggio, my personal favorite and the artist which changed the course of my career, greatly influenced Artemisia’s work in the use of dramatic chiaroscuro — the vivid rendering of light and shadow on canvas. At age sixteen, she produced one of her greatest works, Susanna and the Elders (1610). Artemisia’s subject matter was typical for Baroque painters — historical, religious, or military themes — but what makes her work truly remarkable are her interpretations of these themes. Male artists tended to depict women as shy, demure, silk and ribbon covered, characters. Artemisia’s women are strong, capable, and fierce. Her compositions are bold, close to the canvas, and in your face. Having received her early training by her father, she sought to further her education seeking admittance into the art academies. Judith and her Maidservant, 1619, oil on canvas, 114 x 93.5 cm, Galleria Palatina, Florence, Italy
Those schools, however, rejected her and it was decided that she would continue her work under the tutelage of one of her father’s associates, Agostino Tassi.
“He then threw me on to the edge of the bed, pushing me with a hand on my breast, and he put a knee between my thighs to prevent me from closing them. Lifting my clothes, he placed a hand with a handkerchief on my mouth to keep me from screaming.” “I scratched his face,” she testified, “and pulled his hair, and It was at this point, that Artemisia’s life took a turn. Tassi raped the
before he penetrated me again, I grasped his penis so tight that I
17 year old Artemisia. Snaking his way into her bedroom, he forced
even removed a piece of flesh.”
himself upon Artemisia. She fought back. According to the court transcripts (1612), which are still available today: 64
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But she was physically outmatched. After Tassi was done with her, she rushed to a drawer and retrieved a knife. “I’d like to kill you with this knife because you have dishonored
me,” she shouted. He opened his coat, taunting her, and said, “Here
Here is Judith and her hand maiden with their sleeves rolled up
I am.” She came at him with the knife but he shielded himself. “Oth-
past their elbows. They are not demure but focused and resolute as
erwise,” she said, “I might have killed him.”
they stand over the writhing body of Holofernes. The maid uses both
So angry and devastated was Artemisia, that Tassi took her hand and promised to marry her thus restoring her honor. According to
of her hands to forcibly pin him down, and Judith has put her knee upon the man’s chest.
transcripts, she said his promise did, in fact, “calm her”. Remember,
And there he is, Holofernes. Flat on his back, eyes wide open
Artemisia was very young and I have to believe also, in a state of
and aware, as Judith slices her sword across his throat. Blood spurts
shock. To make this story even more disconcerting, unbeknownst to
and gushes from him covering the white bed linens and spraying
her, Tassi was already married. Over the next several months, Tassi
droplets across Judith’s bodice and breast. With her left hand, she
continued to have his way with the young artist and it wasn’t until he
grabs a hold of his head, hair entangled between her fingers, as she
reneged on the proposal that Orazio pressed charges.
completes the deed.
The court hearing lasted seven months with Artemisia being tortured
One more important element. The face of Judith is a self portrait
by sibille (a process where ropes were tied to her fingers and tightened)
of Artemisia, and the wide eyed frenzied face of Holofernes is that of
to determine her truthfulness. There were various witnesses who testi-
… well Tassi, of course.
fied as to the vile character of Tassi — he had already been imprisoned
I do not wish to sensationalize the work of Artemisia Gentileschi for
twice before, once for incest and the second time for arranging to have
she is, first and foremost, an exceptional artist. Much has been made
his wife murdered. There were other charges leveled against him as
of the rape of Artemisia whereby some scholars feel the violation of
well. He was believed to have raped his first wife and then while living
the artist and its pursuant court hearing overshadows her fine work.
with his wife’s sister, he fathered children with her.
They believe that to attribute this work to her trauma is to belittle her
The judge eventually ruled in favor of Artemisia and Tassi was
talent. I wholeheartedly disagree.
sentenced to five years in prison. He never served his time. As a
The work of Judith and Holofernes may well have been a theme
commissioned artist, he was protected by Pope Innocent X. Artemisia,
Artemisia simply choose, as did her male contemporaries. I know,
however, humiliated and with her reputation in tatters, fled to Florence
however, that trauma changes a person. Forever. You can’t go back
and was quickly married off to Pietro Stiattesi.
and that trauma must in some way be exorcised. I included the transcript from the hearing because I feel strongly that along with her artistic expression, readers need to hear Artemisia’s voice. It is my belief that she knew exactly what she was doing as an artist, did so deliberately, and like other survivors of abuse, she prevailed magnificently. Who says that one can not be a great artist and still express a personal narrative. Even a traumatic one. To think otherwise, is to diminish the strength and the reality of that artist. We are, all of us, a canvas of our experiences. ¨
Once in Florence, Artemisia saw immediate success and it was
Sources:
in that city where she began working on several versions of the Old
Mary D. Garrard, Artemisia Gentileschi, Princeton University Press, 1991.
Testament story of Judith and Holofernes. It was a theme which
Alexxa Gotthardt, Artsy, Behind the Fierce, Assertive Paintings of Baroque Master Artemisia Gentileschi, June 2018.
galled her, and she returned to it again and again over the course of seven years. The story of Judith and Holofernes is about a woman who plots, with the help of her hand maiden, to kill a warlord who’s besieged her city. Judith, the heroine, slays Holofernes by beheading him and saves her people. It was a common theme in art history, but Artemisia gives it a whole new visage. Finally in 1620, on a 199 x 162.5 cm canvas, we see Artemisia’s final revenge.
Jonathan Jones, The Guardian, More Savage than Carravaggio: The woman who took revenge in oil. Oct 2016. Mary O’Neill, Smithsonian Magazine, Artemisia’s Moment, May 2002 Barbara Gunnell, Webcitation.org, The Rape of Artemisia, July 1993 Jennifer Dasal, ArtCurious Podcast, Gentileschi’s Slaying of Holofernes, Episode 42, Oct 2018. Sarah Cascone, ArtNet News, A New Book Uses 400-Year-Old Court Transcripts to Recreate Baroque Painter Artemisia Gentileschi’s Rape Trial, Author Joy McCullough, April 2018
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WELL-BEING
IT’S HIP TO BE SOBER: Beyond the Mocktail Spas are not the only alcohol-free zones in the world. From booze-free bars to juice crawls and clean clubs, being on the wagon has never been so good. Written by Judy Chapman
Redemption Bar
DRY BAR MOVEMENT It’s all about the ‘Hour of Happiness’ at The Alchemist Kitchen New York, where, every Friday evening, folk socialize and sample elixirs and tonics hand-blended on-site from herbal botanicals. It’s also hip to be sober at Redemption Bar that has been so successful there are WITH WELLNESS NOW A MULTIBILLION-
now two locations in London. What makes
DOLLAR INDUSTRY more of us are looking
Redemption appealing is that it still offers a
lot of people that come to Redemption are
for alternative ways to get our dose of fun
sexy bar style of ambience, but with exciting
looking to take a night off, but without having
and rejuvenation.
Says co-founder- Catherine Salway, “A
mixes such as ‘Bombay Love’ made with tur-
a night in - a sanctuary away from the perpet-
While red wine is getting a good wrap
meric root, coconut keffir, carrot, lemon and
ual temptation and peer pressure of booze.
for its antioxidant properties, alcohol
ginger juice and alcohol-free Bavarian beer.
It’s also a great place for people to work who
consumption is increasingly responsible
might have had addiction problems in the
for countless violent, criminal and health
past because it’s a safe environment. I think
issues. It’s little wonder then that people
there is a market for one in every major city.”
are seeking healthier highs. Which is why
New Yorkers can check in on the Listen Bar
a good night out these days may include
that hosts ‘all bar, no booze’ pop-ups over
meeting up with friends for a group
the city. Founded by Lorelei Bandrovschi,
meditation class or a vegan meal rather
whose mission is to ‘rewrite nightlife’, the
than a bar. Where a night out with the
vibe here is dive bar – dimly-lit, groovy
boys could be a men’s circle drinking
music with sassy bar tenders. Listen Bar
Kava or a motivational workshop. Where
offers alcohol-free menus created by a team
your vacation is a yoga retreat and sipping
of world-class mixolgoists, herbalists and
on green juice is your preferred drink of choice. Here’s a host of alternatives to explore for a fun night out.
nutritionists delivered by a cast of musician
Lisen Bar Photo by Shannon Sturgiss
bartenders. Some dry bars go as far to support those with alcohol issues. Sobar in Nottingham London operates on a volunteer basis with all the profits going to fund their drug and alcohol recovery services.
Similarly, The
Brink is Liverpool’s first dry bar serving up wellness drinks such as ‘Bombay Sour’ and ‘Virgin Margaritas’ – with all profits supporting people with addiction issues. CLEAN CLUBS ARE ON THE RISE “Healthy clubs are the new nightclubs,” confirms co- Lauren Berlingeri, co-founder of Higher Dose, a New York wellness company. “At Higher Dose, for example, we play Burning Man mix tapes, serve kava, and are all about getting folk high naturally.” Higher Dose Photo by Barry Keziban
Morning Gloryville started in London in 2013 and now hosts events worldwide CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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WELL-BEING
including Tokyo, New York, Paris, Melbourne and Sydney to name a few. These morning raves usually begin at 6.30 am and combine energizing music with superfood smoothies, organic coffee and free massages to set the tone for a healthy day. The Get Down in New York, hosted by DJ Tasha Blank, just might be NYC’s wildest dance party that promises to get you home at a decent hour so you can wake up Friday ready to conquer the world. Once or twice a month, over 300 beings congregate to shake off the stress of the day and dance like there’s no tomorrow. Similarily, ‘5 Rhythms’ is a dynamic ‘movement is medicine’ practice founded by Gabrielle Roth. Now taught all over the world, this practice is all about being in our body that ignites creativity, connection and community – without any enhancers. It’s about expressing and releasing any anxiety, emotions, aggressiveness and vulnerability – through movement. Yoga Barn in Bali is famous for its yoga retreats and workshops and has hosted
years olds are beginning to drink less. Bad
alcohol-free Ecstatic Friday and Sunday
pubs are going out of business.” Here In the USA, up to 100,000 people
Dance for several years.
die each year from alcohol-related causes
Says co-founder Charley Patton, ‘The great thing about dancing is the connection we create with each other - all without the unnecessary (and detrimental) aid of loud nightclubs, cigarette smoke or alcohol. Dance helps to remind us of who we truly are.” In fact, one of Spa Finder’s Top 10 trends for 2016 was the rise of ‘Well-Fests – a shift from wasted to wellness.’ From one-day yoga events to music festivals and Burning Man, it’s all about connecting where health takes center stage. WHY DO WE DRINK? Aside from the civilized way Europeans traditionally drink a glass of wine or two with
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give us confidence to connect with others, and can even boost our energy levels. Dry January in the UK and Dry July in Australia are increasingly popular. Here In the USA, there’s a ‘Sober October’ coming up. These dry months were originally launched as public health campaigns urge people to abstain from alcohol for a month – and have been a worldwide success. “There are signs of change,” confirms Salway. “UK politicians have been scratching their heads trying to figure out what to do about problem drinking with measures like minimum pricing, but I think the most powerful changes come from culture. 18-24
making it the third leading preventable cause of death. The first is tobacco and the second is poor diet and physical inactivity. In 2014, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities accounted for 9,967 deaths (31 percent of overall driving fatalities).* DRINK ALTERNATIVES Alcohol-free spirits are another emerging trend and little wonder that Seedlip, the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit, is a big seller at retailers including Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. “As the world shifts its focus towards a more conscious attitude to food & drink, Seedlip is an option for what to drink when
meals, one of the reasons that people drink
you’re not drinking,” says founder Ben
alcohol is that it can loosen up our inhibitions,
Branson.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Nutrition Bar for juices, smoothies, and teas prepared by a “vegetable sommelier”, while the Swissôtel group recently introduced a menu of Vitality Drinks, including power shots and healthy breakfast smoothies filled with fiber and protein. We are living in the age of wellness. The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) recently reported that global wellness tourism revenues grew an impressive12.8% from 2015-2017, from a $3.7 trillion to a $4.2 trillion market. To put that in economic context, from 2015-2017, the wellness economy grew 6.4% annually, nearly twice as fast as global economic growth (3.6%). Wellness expenditures ($4.2 trillion) are now more than half as large as total global health expenditures ($7.3 trillion). As the wellness movement continues to push us to reconsider our lifestyle choices, the trend of cocktails infused with alkalizing Yoga Barn
vegetables are also on the rise. Just some of these include Root Vegetable Cocktails and Korean Kimchi Cocktails made with
In the US, especially in premium restau-
fermented vegetable juice – all of which
rants and gourmet markets in New York,
helps us feel more rejuvenated in the morn-
Connecticut, and New England. The
ing. A hangover has never felt so good! ¨
sophisticated all-natural, non-alcoholic, sparkling beverage is TÖST, based in
*National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and
Vermont, with impressive names like Alfred
Alcoholism https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
Portale of Gotham Bar and Grill behind it. TÖST is a sparkling beverage that provides the celebratory air of Champagne without the alcohol. Refreshingly dry and not too sweet, it’s exceptional on its own and pairs exceedingly well with food. TÖST is elegant, sophisticated, delightfully fizzy, and a drink that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere, by anyone. You know that change is afoot when mainstream hotel brands start introducing smoothie stations and on-site juice bars. Boost your immune system with seasonal juices, tonics, and elixirs at selected Ace Hotels around the world. In Seoul, the JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square offers a
TÖST
About the author: Judy Chapman is the author of four books on spas and the former Editor-in-Chief of Spa Asia magazine. Over the past twenty years, Judy has created award winning spas, wellness retreats, and products for luxury brands in Australia, Bali, Germany, India, Maldives, Middle East, Myanmar, Singapore and New York. With a relentless pursuit of unique and original experiences, her curiosity has led Judy to explore the Himalayas, spending time with Tibetan doctors to onsen bathing in Japan and Ayurvedic retreats in India. She has created over 200 skincare, tea, and candle collections for luxury brands around the world. Judy is also the Editor of ‘The Chapman Guides, a curation of wellness retreats and destinations. www.thechapmanguides.com
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PULSE:
Art This page Top to Bottom: Peter Tunney, The Renowned Entrance to the Wynwood Wall Opposite Page Clockwise: Jessica Goldman Srebnick; “Behind the Curtain” Martin Whatson, Norwegian Artist; “Beautiful” Queen Andrea, New York Artist, USA
Photo by Armando Colls
“BEYOND WORDS” The Evolution of the New Themed Wynwood Walls by Jessica Srebnick and Goldman Global Arts Project with Peter Tunney Written by Susana Baker
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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Photo by Armando Colls
Photo by Martha Cooper
annual visit to view the unveiling of street art and to view the monumental murals at the Wynwood Walls. Wynwood Walls, is the famed hub of the Wynwood Arts District, known internationally for its spearheading ever changing collection of privately curated Street Art, with Jessica Goldman Srebnick as the curator. This past December Wynwood Walls announced “Beyond Words” as the new theme of this years’ Art Basel Miami Art Week with nine new walls. Beyond Words conveys to the metamorphosis of Street Art and how it has matured from words and tags to a new imagery and its impact of the solidified art movement. “Art Basel Miami is an opportunity to showcase visionary works from a diverse group of world class artist that provide to millions of Wynwood visitors, with a unique, global perspective. We choose a theme every year to reflect what we want to say to this international audience. Beyond Words is a highly relevant message, the beauty and power of Art is that it has a way of communicating far beyond language, it is beyond words” Goldman Srebnick says.
Each December, Art Basel and Miami Art Week becomes the center of the art world, hosting over 20 international fairs with leading galleries from North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia all showing significant works from the masters, mid-career, and emerging artists of Modern and Contemporary art. Over 1,300 galleries globally visit Miami for this Olympian event of the arts. Hundreds of thousands flock to preview the fairs, but the number one destination for art collectors both experienced and novice is their
Photo by Martha Cooper
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THE LEGACY LIVES ON Jessica took the reins of her father’s optics in 2013, curating the first themed Wynwood Walls Show. In a collective effort, Jessica Goldman Srebnick and Peter Tunney, opened the GGA Gallery in 2015. Now a team, Jessica and Peter bring to the gallery a new curatorial work and introduce a life changing experience. THE LEGENDARY PIONEER OF WYNWOOD Tony Goldman was an innovative entrepreneur, with a flair for art and a heart to assist vulnerable neighborhoods. His love and understanding for the arts made him able to revolutionize Wynwood as we now know it. Born Richard Anthony Goldman, Tony was adopted and raised in New York City’s Upper East Side. He graduated in 1965 with a degree in Drama from Boston’s Emerson College. Working with his uncle in real estate right after school Tony fell in love with that industry and started his own business in 1968, Goldman Properties. He was key to the growth of SOHO, Philadelphia City GGA {Goldman Global Arts) also unveiled a spec-
Center, Miami Beach and Wynwood. Tony was an
tacular exhibition from the renowned artist Alexandro
enthusiast who transformed afflicted properties, he
Farto, aka Vhils. This was a first for both GGA and
helped transform Miami Beach’s God’s Waiting Room
Vhils with a one-man solo show highlighting a lineup of
into the international vibrant beach city that we now
never before seen works from the world renown street
know. Jessica Goldman Srebnick follows Tony’s prom-
artist, curated by Jessica Goldman Srebnick and Peter
ises to the amazing Wynwood neighborhood and the
Tunney, sponsored by Citibank. Vhils is known for his
international world of the arts.
unique visual language which is based on removing surface layers on walls and other elements like doors with seldom used tools and techniques. His popularity has skyrocketed and his signature style has evolved since then. His works have transformed buildings across the globe, from Los Angeles to New York, Moscow to Hong Kong. Since the inception of the Wynwood Walls in 2009, Tony Goldman and Peter Tunney have added an explosion of creativity and visual arts to this once dilapidated neighborhood. The kickoff of the Wynwood Walls was created and put in motion by Jessica’s father, Tony Goldman, a Real Estate developer, art collector. Tony Goldman collected the works of New York artist
TIME LINE OF THE WYNWOOD WALLS... Highlighting some renowned artists from the past and present.
Peter Tunney, and they became friends. Tony Goldman offered Tunney a unique invitation to open a new Gallery Experience space right in the middle of the Wynwood Walls, thus Tunney becoming its first tenant. 72
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Photo by Martha Cooper
PULSE:
There are more than three million visitors a year at the Wynwood Walls and Jessica Goldman Srebnick communicates directly with the people with the unrestricted language of Street Art, engaging the audience in a message of hope, peace, light and love.
Opposite Page Top: Vhils, Portugal Ethereal Exhibition at GGA Gallery Bottom: Jessica Goldman Srebnick and Peter Tunney
Art
For more information on the GGA Gallery go to www.ggagallery.com. For more information on the Wynwood Walls go to www.wynwoodwalls.com
This page: Vhils, entrance to the Goldman Global Gallery
About the author: Susana Baker,CEO & Founder of The Art Experiences, Inc an award-winning Art and Culinary Tour Company of the Art Districts of Miami. Radio Anchor on Bloomberg Radio 880thebiz.com on ARTtalk with Susana Baker every Friday at 10:40 am, “Bringing the Cultural Happenings of Miami” for more information on private curated tours or groups go to www.theartexperiences. com to book a reservation call 305-767-5000. Contact: Colls Fine Art Photography, Armando Colls 305-903-7786, www.CollsFineArtPhotography.com
Goldman Srebnick has taken the Wynwood Walls arts project to the next level by adding every year a new theme past themes includes “fearless” “Human Kind” and now “Beyond Words” all a conversation of universal unity, respect and integrity to protect our voices and those who don’t have a voice. Srebnick chose the following artist for Beyond words which the exhibition runs until November of 2019, they are: AShop Crew (Canada) DEIH (Spain) KOBRA (Brazil) Martin Whatson (Norway) Queen Andrea (USA) Ron English (USA) Tomokazu (Japan) VHILS (Portugal) and JonOne (USA) Art Basel and Miami Week may be short lived with the show closing after four days, but for the next twelvemonths Art Basel and Miami Art Week are very much alive and happening every day, daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm for the public to see and enjoy! Wynwood Walls is a private property but it is opened to all to visit for free. The vision and legacy continue with the Goldman Properties, Jessica Goldman Srebnick and Peter Tunney creating and curating daily the most impressive
Photo by Martha Cooper
collection of artists and art in the world! ¨
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2010
2011
2012
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2015
WYNWOOD WALLS
WYNWOOD DOORS
WYNWOOD GARDENS
• Ron English – he was very familiar with the area of Wynwood. Tony Goldman saw Ron’s works and was very much enticed with his work. While Ron was working he used the shadows of the trees to trace around his work, throughout the day, and filled them in with different colors. He played with the perspective a lot with his mural. • Inti – was born in Valparaiso, Chile. His name was a combination between the word Inca, the sun god, and Quechua, which means The Sun. He began experimenting with street art since the age of 13. He created his own iconic style of art with traditions, folklore, and culture of his country into his art. The mural he has up is a departure with a more realistic human depiction. With the title “Codo a Codo” it’s a strong piece representing child labor in his country.
• Vhils – born in Portugal, in the outskirts of Lisbon, he had experiences with the contrast of utopian, socialist dreams and the reality of a capitalist society. Vhils art is very different from others in the sense that he does not use any paint. Rather just using a chisel and whatever was on the wall before, he works around what was there to create his amazing art. • Alexis Diaz – a Puerto Rican artist, began an interest in Street art in 2009, and quickly became popular with his unique style of painting. Using thousands of different tiny black brush strokes he was able to create these extraordinary murals, of these animals that are in a state of metamorphosis.
• Jessica Goldman continues the family legacy and opens Wynwood Gardens • Jessica Goldman Srebnick and Peter Tunney form a partnership and open Goldman Global Arts Gallery (GGA Gallery) • Kenny Sharf – has a love for spontaneity and fun for his art. Alluding to graffiti art, the piece he has reflected the impulse and speed a street artist goes through when they begin to tag. • Logan Hicks – from Brooklyn, had been putting up murals in the Wynwood district since 2006, he began contributing for the Wynwood walls since 2009. In 2016, Logan worked on a nightscape, a 40’ by 70’. Taking about a week to finish, an amazing mural consisting of stencil, paint, and photography a homage oath to the city of New York.
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PULSE:
Stage
ACT Up A Contemporary Theatre Brings Broadway to Western Connecticut. By William Squier Photo Contributed
destination theater in a little over two years. And they’ve rallied a small army of supporters that includes the residents of Ridgefield, their professional friends from the New York stage and a multi-award winning, musical theater composer-lyricist. “I have always worn two different hats,” ACT’s Artistic Director, Dan Levine, explains. “In college, I was a theater major and a premed student; theater because I loved it and premed because I was going to be a doctor. I thought that there was no way I would ever be able to make it as an actor. It more made sense to me to go to dental school.” So, when he graduated from Brandeis University, Levine enrolled in the Tufts University School Photo Contributed
of Dental Medicine. But, at the beginning of his second year of study, he traveled to New York
The first time you walk into A Contemporary Theatre in Ridgefield,
to audition for the Broadway musical Les Miserable. It was his first
Connecticut, you’re forgiven if you think that you’re entering a ven-
professional audition and, surprisingly, Levine was cast as Marius, one
erable theatrical institution. It’s an easy assumption to make!
of the principal roles! That was the end of dental school. From Les
To begin with, the regional theater company’s home is an impres-
Miz, he moved onto the Broadway and national tours of Mamma Mia!,
sive, midcentury modern building, co-designed by famed architect
Little Shop of Horrors, The Rocky Horror Show, Jesus Christ Superstar,
Philip Johnson, with soaring glass walls that look out over the distant
Chicago and Tommy.
Berkshire Hills. Its cozy auditorium offers audience members roomy
In between acting gigs, Levine supported himself as an upper level
seating, excellent sightlines and the area’s only stage outfitted with
math and science tutor. He ended up with so many clients that he
a permanent turntable. Glance at ACT’s programming and you’ll see
started hiring other tutors to share the workload and eventually opened
they’ve recently mounted Broadway quality productions of the hit
the Manhattan based education company, Big Apple Tutoring. Levine
musicals Mamma Mia! and Evita, hailed by local critics as “breath-
says that he drew on the range of his work experience to make the
taking,” “exuberant” and “flawless.” And the theater’s educational
dream of opening a regional Equity theater a reality. “The fact that I
schedule is packed with master classes, summer camps and a
have a business sense; that I’ve always done multiple things my whole
22-member choir that benefit the area’s youngest stage enthusiasts.
life and I know how to juggle it – all of that lends itself to running a
You’d never guess that A Contemporary Theatre is only a little more than a third of the way through it’s inaugural season!
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theater company,” he feels. In contrast to Levine, ACT’s Executive Director, Katie Diamond,
Credit for ACT’s remarkable growth goes to the tireless team of
was set on performing career from an early age. She began by acting,
Katie Diamond and Daniel C. Levine. Together with Levine’s husband,
and singing in choirs while she was growing up on the West Coast.
Bryan Perri, a conductor and music director of Broadway’s Wicked,
Diamond went on to study vocal performance at the New England
they’ve taken ACT from a glimmer of an idea to a fully functioning,
Conservatory, fully intending to devote herself to opera. “But, I missed
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
assembled a board of directors, they began to search for a space. Ridgefield’s First Selectman, Rudy Marconi, suggested that they look Opposite Page Left to Right: Bryan Perri, Katie Diamond, Stephen Schwartz & Daniel C. Levine; The cast of Mamma Mia! This Page: The cast of Evita
at a little, corporate auditorium on grounds of the town’s abandoned Schlumberger property. It had no wing space, no backstage area, the audience seating consisted of benches and the building had experienced some flooding. But, they fell in love with the space – and the fact that the town was willing to lease it to them for $1 a year – and set about to transform it into a state-of-the-art, professional theater. “We said, ‘If we’re going to do this, why don’t we just go really big?” Levine recalls. “So, we got the town behind us, got very generous donors and sponsors and, a year to the day that we met with Rudy, we opened our very first production, Mamma Mia!” One big boost was gaining the support of Wicked and Pippin creator Stephen Schwartz, who happens to live nearby. Levine had known the composer-lyricist for many years, due to Bryan Perri’s association with Wicked. Schwartz had also tapped
Photo Contributed
Levine to create an original revue, Born to
You’d never guess that A Contemporary Theatre is only a little more than a third of the way through it’s inaugural season!
Dance, for Princess Cruises, so he was an admirer of his abilities as a writer, director and producer. “Stephen said that he’d help out in any way that he could,” Levine reports. So, he and Diamond proposed that ACT produce one of his musicals per year for their first several seasons and brand the
the camaraderie of being is a cast and doing multiple shows a years,”
series as Presenting Stephen Schwartz.
she says. So, she returned home and plunged into Seattle’s busy theater
The first offering in the series will be the 1978 musical Working,
scene by acting, directing, producing and even writing shows. And
based on the book by oral historian Studs Terkel. However, ACT will
Diamond got a taste for developing new works by participating in the
premiere a reimagined version of the show. “My idea was to update
Village Theatre’s summertime Festival of New Musicals; birthplace of
it,” Levine explains. “I’ve conducted brand new interviews with today’s
Broadway bound hits like Next to Normal and Million Dollar Quartet.
American workforce and figured out a through-line so that each seg-
Then, at age 31, Diamond decided that it was “now or never” and
ment connects to the next. It’s a multimedia event. You’ll see lots of
she moved to New York to see if she could make it on Broadway. In
video and hear authentic voices. And there will be interaction between
short order, she was cast in The Pirate Queen, followed by a lengthy run
the live actors and the video. Stephen is super thrilled about it.” Work-
in Jersey Boys. Around that same time she met her husband, Bill, they
ing will run from February 14 through March 10.
married and began a family. “I realized that I didn’t want to go back to
The creation of new works is something many fledgling theaters
doing eight shows a week while I was raising babies,” Diamond recalls.
include in their mission statements. But, few make it a reality in their
But, while she focused on being a mom, Diamond stayed involved
first year. “Being a part of that process is exciting for all of us,” Dia-
with the stage by running a cabaret space in the city. And when the
mond explains. “So, we wanted to make sure our audience knew that
family relocated to Ridgefield, she joined the board of directors at the
was an important part of who we are.” To that end, ACT presented a
Ridgefield Playhouse.
weekend-long New Works Festival last July and one of the musicals
It was at the Playhouse, where Levine was serving as the Artistic
featured, Austen’s Pride, was chosen for a full production. In something
Director of the Broadway and Cabaret series, that they became friends
of an oblique nod to the development process, the show tells of author
and began to collaborate. “We started producing shows together,”
Jane Austen’s struggle to write the novel Pride and Prejudice. Austen’s
Diamond remembers. “We did Tommy and Jesus Christ Superstar.”
Pride will be presented from March 28 through April 14.
Around the time of Superstar, they fantasized about partnering to
In all, it adds up to an incredibly ambitious launch for Fairfield
create an arts organization of their own. “We thought that the one
County’s newest stage. “We like to do things fast around here!”
thing missing in Ridgefield was a real Equity theater,” Levine says. “So,
Diamond concedes. “When there’s momentum, we don’t want to
we formed ACT and everything moved quickly.”
hesitate. I think that’s part of our success: knowing how to catch a
Once Diamond and Levine had secured non-profit status and
wave and stay with it.” ¨ CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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FILM + ENTERTAINMENT
Fox on Film by PETER FOX: about.me/foxonfilm
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Starring Shameik Moore, Jake Jonson and Hailee Seinfeld, with Mahershala Ali, Nicholas Cage, Lily Tomlin, Zoe Kravitz and Liev Schreiber. Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey and Rodney Rothman. A Sony Pictures Entertainment release, 117 minutes, rated PG.
F
eature-length animation films are generally not my thing. I hadn’t seen one in a theater since somewhere back in the nineteen-nineties, when my eldest daughter, who was then four years old, wanted to see Toy Story. With that said, it would take much hype for me to go to a movie theater to see an animation film, let alone review one. However, after following the pre-production trajectory of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and hearing the early buzz from friends in the biz, and seeing the lineup of top name talent attached to the film, I grew more curious. As a father, I also believed that it was my duty to see the movies that my youngest daughter, (who is sixteen
years old) and her friends go to see to know what they are interested in. I decided to take a shot. Based on the comic book characters created by writer Brian Michael Bendis and artist Sara Pichelli in 2011, the movie centers on the adventures of African-American/ Puerto Rican Brooklyn teen, Miles Morales, as he tries to fit in at a new private school in Manhattan. Miles’ father is a by-the-books police officer and his mother is a devoted nurse. They are both loving parents who are proud of their son’s achievements and want to see him succeed in the new school for gifted students. However, adjusting to the new school proves to be tough on Miles who would rather spend time
with his friends from the neighborhood or visit his uncle Aaron, who encourages his talents as a graffiti artist. Although Miles idolizes Aaron, his charming uncle is quite a complex character who has had troubles with the law in the past. Miles’ life becomes even more complicated when a radioactive spider bites him, and he finds himself developing superpowers, which includes venom strike, camouflage, sticking to objects, incredible hearing, Spidey sense and much more. Meanwhile, the city’s nefarious criminal mastermind Kingpin has developed an ultra-secret nuclear collider which opens up a portal to other universes (and you thought
your childhood was complicated?), pulling different versions of Spider-Man (including an older Peter Parker, Spider-Gwen, Spider-Man Noir, Spider-Ham and anime Peni Parker) into Miles’ world. Aided by familiar characters such as Peter Parker, Spider Gwen and a kick-ass version of Aunt May, and new characters such as Spider-Ham and Spider Man-Noir, Miles learns to accept the challenges and responsibilities of being a real superhero. He ultimately realizes that anyone can wear the hero’s mask and take action to fight for what’s right. With the urban backdrop and African American/ Puerto Rican lead character
Photography courtesy of Sony Pictures Entertainment 76
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
of Miles, the storytelling breaks with the other narratives in the Spider-Man series. Says Phil Lord, one of the screenwriters of the film: “What drew us to the Spider-Verse was the fact that it gave us the opportunity to tell the Spider-Man story in a completely new and revolutionary way for the current generation. The movie explores the superhero experience from a fresh angle while dealing with the larger universal themes such as coming of age, taking action and finding your purpose in this world. The producers also emphasize the central theme of the Spider-Man saga in this inventive new chapter. “One of the main reasons we were drawn to the project was the fact that Miles is a different kind of superhero,” says producer Christopher Miller. “What’s cool about Spidey is that you can see this superhero wearing a mask and flying around, and you can think, “Hey that can be me underneath the mask.” He adds, “In a way, the heart of the movie is Miles’ comingof-age story, but we wanted to tell this in a completely new and unconventional way. We wanted to put someone totally different in Spider-Man’s shoes and under that mask. One of the key themes of the movie is that we all have powers, and we all need to face up to our responsibilities, regardless of who we are or where we are born.” One of the most striking aspects of the film is its dynamic visual style, which goes beyond what
audiences expect to see in CG animated movies and pays homage to the classic look and feel of the comic books of the Golden-Era. “We have moments when the frame gets broken into panels, just like you see in comic books,” explains Miller. “There are flash frames that allow for unusual compositions, and there are new sound effects and stylized visuals that are spread throughout the movie. There are scenes
relate to—he’s trying to fit in, he’s trying to figure out his place in the world, etc. He is a relatable character and the film is really a coming of age story, masquerading as a superhero movie. Lord and Miller expand the possibility of the genre by exploring how it feels to be a wide-eyed, first-time superhero in an environment where everyone has been doing it for a long time. As Miller explains, “I think both the visuals and story
entertaining film. I found myself moved by Miles’ journey, and from the moment he takes off the mask for the first time until the very end of the story you will find yourself rooting for him. However, it wasn’t until I left the theater that I figured out what was gnawing at me during the entire story. Miles’s character is filled with high-stakes conflict; more than enough to carry an entire film on his own. The fact that the storytellers
where you feel you are inside a comic-book.” This technical artistry mirrors the main character himself, and the emotionality of the film comes from the deep storytelling and rich characters (especially Miles and his family) that the filmmakers have brought to life. Miles’ journey as Spider-Man is unique-he is the first African American/ Latino Spider-Man, and yet he’s also going through things that every person can
are especially cool, and we haven’t seen anything like them before. From a story standpoint, we are telling this story about Miles— he’s younger, he’s more resistant to being Spider-Man and being a superhero is more problematic for him. We also get to explore the relationship between Miles and Peter Parker, who have a very interesting dynamic.” Indeed, all of this is true, and makes for a very
chose to surround him with other manifestations of Spider-Man characters seemed almost apologetic as if they were afraid that audiences would not fully embrace a multi-racial Spider-Man character on his own. He is rendered as a Spider-Man amongst other Spider-Men. Perhaps we’ll see this in a sequel? No doubt there will be one. But either way, this film is amongst the most entertaining releases of 2018.
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DECORATIVE ARTS
Selection of Fall Sales By Matthew Sturtevant
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Tiffany
Flying V
At Christie’s New York Design auction totaled $8,493,125 selling 84% by lot and 96% by value. The top lot of the auction was a rare and important Tiffany Studios ‘Pond Lily’ lamp, circa 1903 which sold for $3,372,500, establishing a new world auction record for Tiffany Studios. The Pond Lily, at $3.4 Million, now stands at the zenith of the Tiffany market, regaining the position it held when it last sold in 1989, and overtaking the Pink Lotus Tiffany lamp that subsequently sold in 1997 for $2.8 Million. Lamps of this quality and design prowess continue to show a resilience in the market since the early 70’s when they began to attract attention. Oddly prior to that time they were simply considered out of fashion, but the quality and beauty eventually began to attract collectors and are now so rare that when they come to market they often achieve record results.
Ken (K.K) Downing’s Gibson “Flying V” guitar hammers down at Bonhams London Entertainment sale for a whopping $188,500 for a world record set for a “lead heavy metal guitar”. The 1967 Gibson Flying V was a design ahead of it’s time created to mimic the newly developed delta wing jets used by the militaries the guitar on it’s own merits is an inspiring object. Add into the mix its owner, K.K. Downing lead guitarist of Judas Priest and the results are astounding. Expectations lead Bonhams to estimate the offered guitar for a mere $18,000/36,000 which it clearly surpassed.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Star Attraction It was definitely “All” rather than “Nothing at All” at a Frank Sinatra auction in New York, where items owned by the late icon and his fourth wife fetched $9.2 million, Sotheby’s. And 99 percent of the
Credit: Sotheby’s
lots spread out this week in the US financial and entertainment capital, and online, were snapped up, attracting 300 bidders from more
than 30 countries, the auction house announced. Up for grabs were furniture, art and personal effects dating back to the couple’s 22-year marriage from their homes in Palm Springs, Los Angeles and Malibu, as well as scripts and screenplays. My favorite was a painting by Frank Sinatra himself “Untitled” dated 1991 and obviously inspired by Piet Mondrian the Dutch early 20th century artist who when he immigrated to the United States was inspired by Jazz. He translated his new experience into art. The work sold for $100,000 hammer against an estimate of $10,000/15,000 obviously boosted by the association of the artist.
Brad Overton, courtesy of Blue Rain Gallery
FEBRUARY 14-18, 2019 Palm Springs Convention Center
art-palmsprings.com
VENÜGRAM
“Round Barn” PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM COOPER
The story of the Sonoma County fires is not just the memories of things lost forever such as the landmark Santa Rosa round barn, but of the stamina of a community who bonded together to rebuild their lives.
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