VENÜ #46 FALL/HOLIDAY by VENÜ MAGAZINE

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE

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Fall/Holiday Issue_46 SPOTLIGHT 12 VALUE UNLOCKED: Borrow against your Luxury Assets

14 RESPECT: A Gifted Piano 16 Photographer Profile Cody Smyth

18 Profile Philip Jalufka EVENTS 22 Highlights from The

Steelpointe Boat Show

FEATURES

Laurel Canyon Keeps Its Spirit Alive

A show of works by Karen Graffeo with Esteban Jimenez Guerra at FATVillage

Purvis Young, an Iconic Visionary ON THE COVER Abstract Movement Number 1, by Christian Siriano, featured on page 86 4

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

A Perfect Storm of Artwork by Jessica Lichtenstein

Cover Story Christian Siriano Designing the World

Regina and Ryan Cohn, The Wizards of Odd

STYLE 32 François Belizaire Luxury & Lifestyle Strategist

33 Venü Holiday Gift Guide 58 T emple St. Clair

The Accidental Jeweler

TRAVEL 108 N ewport Dinner with the Vanderbilts

APPETITE 24 The Golden Palate Eating

108

Across Tampa Bay

26 Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards at GlenArbor Golf Club

REAL ESTATE 40 Compass Coastal

Navigating from Harbor to Home

DESIGN 42

esign at Heart: A Look D at How the Interior Design Industry is Giving Back

Edwin Chan Looking into the Future of Architecture & Design with EC3

J effrey Maynard’s Edens of Design

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Fall/Holiday Issue_46

114 TRANSPORT 114 Motoring The Bridge Celebrates its Fifth Anniversary

118 Yachting Protecting Our Oceans One Vessel at a Time

WELL-BEING 121

ilver A Noble History in S Healthcare

122

ood Vibrations G With Dr. Stephen Sinatra

124

The Magicote of Mushrooms

VENÜGRAM 128

Featured Corbett Foote

IN EVERY ISSUE 8

Publisher’s Letter

10 Masthead

124 121

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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9/19/21 7:33 PM

Honestly, I can’t remember a year quite like this one and can’t help but wonder if our timeout from the world was part of a bigger plan to

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Real estate developer Philip Jalufka, a former Special Ops pilot, is also in the business of helping people live better, more fulfilled lives

inspire us to reach new heights and possibili-

and he’s writing a book about it. We were privy

ties in our lives. The energy around us is amaz-

to a sneak peek of the strategies he shares to

ing; creativity is pervasive and the shared

is setting new standards in the fashion world;

lead people on successful life missions; it’s all

desire to help others succeed is giving off

we are still smiling!

about his tried and true equation that adds up

great vibes that inspire everyone. You’ll see

Then there’s Temple St. Clair, the story-

what we mean as you dive into this 46th issue

telling jewelry designer who is one of only

The folks of the iconic love fest that is Laurel

to some pretty interesting reading.

of Venü. With 128 pages and a mindblowing

three American jewelry designers to ever be

Canyon, California, have banded together

array of over-the-top superstar stories, it is

inducted into the permanent collections of

to put more heart and hope back into their

bigger and bolder than ever.

the Louvre. Her love of nature and her skill in

famous musical community. What they have

telling its tales through her precious pieces

to say about the challenges they conquered

case an original painting on our cover by

made us fall in love with her work and wisdom.

and the camaraderie they champion is what

our featured artist, Christian Siriano. You

Architect Edward Chan not only believes in

makes life worth singing about. Check it out.

For openers, we are honored to show-

may know him for the eye-candy gowns he’s

building castles in the clouds for the good of

If you’ve been wondering what the next

created for A-list celebrities from film, fashion

humanity, he puts veritable silver linings in the

magic bullet is for your health, take a look at

and front-page fame. But he’s also busy rede-

many multi-family homes he builds. Famous

what our featured health and wellness experts

signing the world from the inside out, dress-

for designing many iconic landmark buildings,

have to say about the magic of mushrooms,

ing residential interiors, crafting furniture and

including the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

living a high vibrational lifestyle and keeping

creating one-of-a-kind artwork with the same

and the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris, Chan

silver on hand for effective germ warfare.

signature style that makes everything he

lives by the words of an old Chinese prov-

We’ve also profiled designers and artists,

touches cover worthy. Passionate about all his

erb: When the wind of change blows, some

past and present, who will be turning heads

projects, he is also a pure delight to interview,

build walls, while others build windmills. We

with their artistic interpretation for some time

taking the time to talk to us between non-stop

applaud his excellence in enriching people’s

to come, along with chefs who have been

award shows, runway and TV appearances

lives with a socially conscious vision of a

tempting taste buds with farm fresh fare with

and a stunning solo museum exhibition that

sustainable place to live, work and play.

a gourmet twist in a Vanderbilt mansion and a Westchester golf club, and Oddities’ wizards of weird and wonderful things that literally take your breath away. The fun and fantastical, the frivolous and the fancy also continue in our gift guide, along with the megayachts and collectors’ cars that bridge dreams to reality for the privileged few. We are excited to include them all as we invite you to reimagine your best life in the days ahead. We look forward to doing it with you! All my Best,

Cover Story Ladies in Siriano, sketch by Christian Siriano. Cover story on page 86

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Tracey Thomas Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tracey Thomas ART DIRECTOR Denis Oproiu MANAGING EDITOR Kamitha Sloan FEATURES EDITOR Cindy Clarke WEST COAST EDITOR Robin H. Philips EDITORIAL & MARKETING Lisa Mikulski FOOD EDITOR Fred Bollaci

At Literacy to Legacy Mentors, We Educate, Inspire, + Motivate People to Master Their Financial Lives + Live Prosperously at Any Age Through Personal Finance Education + Mentoring.

FILM & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Peter J. Fox EDITORIAL & MARKETING Lisa Mikulski DECORATIVE ARTS EDITOR Matthew Sturtevant LUXURY & LIFESTYLE STRATEGIST François Wolff Belizaire CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Fred Bollaci, Pam Bristow, Judy Chapman, Cindy Clarke, Diana DeLucia, Ivonne Gamboa, Lisa Mikulski, Robin Phillips, Megan Reilly, Kami Sloan, François Wolff Belizaire PUBLISHING PARTNER Venu Media Company VP OF SALES DEVELOPMENT Camille Giacomazza NATIONAL ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Lisa Stiehl SALES Susie Earls

For More Information Contact: deborah@literacytolegacymentors.net www.literacytolegacymentors.net

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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 LLC, 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.

Valued Virtues

CAPITALIZE ON THE EQUITY OF YOUR LUXURY ASSETS WITHOUT SELLING

Paul Gauguin The Bathers, 1897 | Courtesy of National Gallery of Art | Sam A. Lewisohn

VENÜ chimes in with Borrō, the leading provider of confidential, non-bank loans that use borrowers’ luxury assets as collateral.

BY KAMI SLOAN

Venü: How was your company founded? Borrō: Our parent company, Luxury Asset Capital, was founded by Dewey Burke, an entrepreneur with extensive experience in the private sector of equity and collateral lending with the undertaking of providing a safe and effective way for the UHNW individual to leverage their equity in asset classes that are high in value and low in liquidity of their prized possessions. Venü: What’s the primary mission of your brand? Borrō: Borro was established as a fintech platform to provide capital to individuals at critical moments in time. Our mission is to help individuals who need to quickly and discreetly meet a financial deadline every day to seize a crucial opportunity. Venü: How many years has your company been in business? Borrō: The company began in 2008 and has provided nearly half a billion dollars of loans to over 15,000 clients.

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Courtesy of istockphoto / Massi67

WELL-BEING

SPOTLIGHT

Venü: What is the process of obtaining a short-term loan? Borrō: We meet with prospective clients either in person or over the phone to understand their liquidity needs and available assets for collateral. Our expert staff determines the asset(s) value and quotes loan terms, which clients accept through a single, simple contract. We take possession of the collateral assets, which are fully insured and securely stored by us during the life of the loan, and wire the entire loan amount to their bank account. When the loan and interest are repaid, the assets are returned – fully insured until the borrower retakes possession. Even after a loan is repaid, clients can continue to store their tangible assets with us at no extra charge and enjoy the flexibility of a line of credit that provides them near-immediate access to capital with just a phone call away.

Venü: What are the basic criteria for documentation or end-documentation for funding transactions? Borrō: It’s really driven by the valuation requirements for the assets being used for collateral. In most cases involving fine watches or fine jewelry, valuation is straightforward using well-established secondary market indices. Some asset classes also require authentication of ownership. For high-end or classic cars and art, an official title deed is required. In the cases of fine art or auction quality collectible items, certificates and detailed provenance documentation is needed. Venü: What assets do you accept as collateral? Borrō: We accept a broad range of luxury assets, including but not limited to luxury and classic cars, luxury watches, fine jewelry, diamonds, designer handbags & accessories, precious metals, fine art, auction quality assets, and luxury real estate. Venü: Is the company a direct lender? Borrō: Yes. We are NOT a broker and all our loans remain on our balance sheet.

Venü: How quickly is your turnaround from inception to funding? Borrō: Generally speaking, one to three days; however, we can fund as quickly as 24-hours. Venü: How do you calculate what the line of equity is from the client’s luxury assets? Borrō: Our accredited in-house specialists combined have 80+ years of experience within the industry of luxury assets. We have robust auction house relationships with a deep-seated network of appraisers, traders, and dealers, among their prowess in the field. While each asset valuation is unique by industry, we use specific criteria to substantiate a loan amount based upon what the investment will qualify for. All valuations are based on the secondary market.

Courtesy of istock photo/ pidjoe

personal guarantee. We address clients’ short-term liquidity needs arising from situations including bridging financing gaps to close deals, covering business expenses during a slow period, addressing unexpected costs such as a tax payment or margin call, or using assets in a collection to

Venü: What is the competitive edge you have Over your competition?

make a strategic acquisition.

Borrō: Service and responsiveness.

Venü: Can you enumerate more about your impeccable customer service?

In addition to closing relatively straightforward loan transactions that are rather effortless for our clients, we are adept in structuring complex transactions involving multiple asset classes with speed and convenience. We have a $100,000,000 line of credit from our partners, giving us the ability to provide immediate capital in virtually any amount to offer loans as sizable as a traditional bank without the invasiveness, paperwork, or delays.

Venü: What services do you provide for the UNHW clientele?

Borrō: What our customers experience is a company built on integrity. We founded it with the basic principles of being honest, trustworthy, helpful, and showing empathy. What we’ve learned as we’ve received feedback from our clients and read the reviews that have been written is we’ve hit the mark. Our client service has been reviewed to be outstanding, and that’s an attribute to us focusing on those traits and choosing the right people. I encourage anyone to read our BBB or Google reviews.

Borrō: We are the leading provider of confidential, non-bank loans to the UNHW community that provides 5, 6, and 7-figure

Get in touch with a Borro valuation expert to determine how much equity you can tap from your luxury assets.

standard loans and lines of credit typically in 1-3 days with virtually no paperwork or

borro.com | 1.866.499.2363 | info@borro.com CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT

RESPECT-inspired piano by Saverio Truglia

honors hope and a child’s heartfelt wish. And it lives on in a gift immortalized by kindness and painted into a musical legacy that will love on for generations. We are thrilled to spotlight the philan-

A Gifted Piano and the Artists Who Immortalized It BY CINDY CLARKE

all the lives it brought together. Read on. In harmony with one of Aretha Franklin’s greatest runaway hits, Respect, and the making of a movie about her life starring musical powerhouse Jennifer Hudson, Steinway & Sons graciously donated a bespoke piano

This is a story that has respect written all

filmmakers who help us remember. And

to Charity Auctions Today with all proceeds

over it. Respect for the life of the Queen of

respect for lives we’ll never forget.

earmarked for the Julian D. King Gift Founda-

Soul. Respect for the star who brings her

thropic tale of the gifted Steinway piano and

It starts with a filmed MGM tribute to

tion. Jennifer and her sister Julia founded the

back to life. Respect for the musicians that fill

songstress Aretha Franklin. It continues

foundation in honor of Jennifer’s nephew,

our souls with hope. Respect for the artists

with a superstar transformed by her music.

Julia’s son, who died tragically at the age of

who bring joy to the world. Respect for the

It plays out on pianos crafted by the best. It

seven. The Foundation provides underpriv-

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

ileged children with school supplies, and

inspired murals in Hudson’s own home, the

honors them during the holiday season.

wonderfully talented artists added to this

While Steinway pianos have historically

work of art with a magnificently colored

garnered accolades as the gold standard

palette and design, bedazzled with more

of musical instruments for some 160 years,

than 1,000 Swarovski crystals. The artist duo

this one-of-a-kind piano made history of its

was traveling across the country, living out of

own this year. Not only was it custom crafted

a bus with their cat, when Jennifer contacted

to pay tribute to Aretha Franklin’s long-time

them to paint the piano for her.

affinity for the piano maker’s iconic baby

“We painted this Diva piano with all of

grands – she played on Steinways through-

Jennifer’s favorite things. She likes a range

out her lifelong career – it was gifted in con-

of bright colors and she really likes gems,

junction with the highly anticipated release

things that shimmer and shine. We decided

art in its own right, to honor Julian and to

of the film RESPECT with the Grammy and

to mix all these things together and throw in

help fund the Foundation’s activities.”

Academy Award® Winner actress who was tapped to play Aretha. Sharing a similar background in music and life, Jennifer Hudson was personally hand selected for the part by Aretha herself, spending as much time together as they could discussing the movie and strengthening their bond before Aretha passed away in 2018. “We all have ups and downs and triumphs. To know how much her music was the narrative of her life gives the music that much more power and truth,” she said. As you can imagine, Hudson, predicted to be an Oscar contender for her role, sang her heart out in the movie. “You cannot play Aretha without doing your homework,” Hudson admitted, adding that she “took the initiative to take piano

a little bit of gold to represent her heart of

The piano auction began on the MGM

gold,” they explained, knowing that all the

film’s release date, August 13, 2021, end-

proceeds of the auctioned piano would go

ing on September 27 with a winning bid of

to help the kids in Chicago that Jennifer’s

$28,000. We caught up with Rich Langsford,

foundation services.

the new owner, shortly after he won the

“Certainly, everyone at Steinway is

piano, congratulating him on owning a

very proud that our pianos are featured

piece of history, and asking him what his

so prominently in this amazing film,”

plans were for this prized piano.

said Gavin English, President, Steinway

“Being able to provide positive experi-

& Sons Americas. “But the connection

ences to kids by contributing to the Julian

to RESPECT has become so much more

King Gift Foundation, and at the same time

meaningful for our ability to collaborate

having this musical and artistic masterpiece

with MGM Studios and raise money for

as part of our family, just seemed like a

Ms. Hudson’s foundation. The Julian D.

win-win to me. I love the bright artwork from

King Gift Foundation has helped so many

Menace and Resa and the Steinway sound

young people and will continue to do so for

from this Boston upright. I think both will be

years to come. We are thrilled to be able to

loved by our four grandkids and will inspire

donate this piano—an outstanding piece of

their own creativity in the years to come.” ☐

lessons and learn as many of Aretha’s songs as I could.” Throughout the film, you’ll see that the Steinway piano she plays shapes the songs, becoming a crucial presence in countless scenes. That Steinway contributed an upright Boston Performance Edition piano to celebrate Aretha’s musical genius and support the charitable foundation of the star who brought her music back to life makes this piano even more priceless. Now proudly displaying the word RESPECT in black letters across the front of the piano, Hudson commissioned mural artists Menace Two and Resa Piece to put their own special touch on the iconic instrument. Having painted several similarly

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

PROFILES: Photograhper

King and Erika Jayne, just to name a few. In 2017 Cody released his first published photo book on the rock band The Strokes entitled “The Strokes: The First Ten Years”. A 20+ year photo document starting in 1995 in high school and covering up till 2016. It is a rare look into how a bunch of kids grew up, formed and became one of rocks greatest bands. In 2021, along with his set decorator wife

Cody Smyth Cody Smyth was born during a snowstorm in 1978 at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. Growing up with parents that were in the photo industry, he realized early on where his

Shooting professionally for nearly 20 years

he has worked commercially for clients such as MTV, Vanity Fair, NME, Nylon, Dazed & Confused and Ford Models, among others.

passion lies. Given his first camera (a Nikon

He has photographed everyone from Lenny

fm2) at 10 years old, Cody started document-

Kravitz, The Strokes, Joan Jett, Dave Gahan,

ing his life as a kid growing up in NYC.

Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Alicia Keys, Stephen

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Nadya Gurevich, he launched Strummerstock. com, a boutique photo stock agency for the film, tv, advertising and interior design industries. Strummerstock.com offers fully cleared and licensed professional photography shot by Cody. He continues to shoot professionally and personally. Cody lives in Brooklyn with his wife and young son. codysmyth.com @acesmyth

strummerstock.com @strummerstock

Email: acesmyth@Mac.Com

PROFILES: Photograhper

OPPOSITE PAGE: Lenny Kravits, NYC (top), Book cover, ‘The Strokes, The First Ten Years, ’ Stephen King THIS PAGE: Clockwise from top left: Fashion shoot, Bahamas, David Gahan, Alicia Keys, Fashion shoot, Bahamas; Joan Jett

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT: Profile

Philip Jalufka is Unstoppable

A LEGACY OF NO EXCUSES, JUST SOLUTIONS BY CINDY CLARKE

His is a language of competence, of being

solutions,” into what he calls his Life Equation

able to talk, interact, listen and learn through

for success.

all kinds of different lenses in just about every

“I didn’t develop that equation early on,”

situation. He has an impressive resume – high

he admits. “It really didn’t come together until

school football star, West Point graduate, MBA

probably 10 years after founding my company,

from Embry Riddle University, captain for the

Legacy International,” which he says is not

US Special Forces, entrepreneur, author, real

what you want to do if you want to create a

estate guru – with a strategically calibrated

solid career path for yourself. “I would argue

arsenal of battlefield skills to match. A small-

that if you are going into high school, or

town Texas boy raised on the kind of core

college or into your first job, no matter your

family values that the greatest generation

age, you need a set of pillars, bedrocks, that

was weaned on, with personal responsibility,

allow you to operate from on any given day

service and commitment taking the lead,

in any given situation. The sooner the better.”

Philip Jalufka cut his teeth on the football

What exactly does he mean by an equa-

field, parlaying his mantra, “no excuses, just

tion? According to Philip, it’s about building

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

motivated teams through a combination of

happen. You also need the discipline and drive

Getting accepted to West Point was also

factors or pillars that make up the equation.

that keep you moving forward towards your

proof of his commitment to setting a goal and

“Teams win big,” he explained, with the insight

target, no matter what comes your way. He

going for it.

of someone who has experienced it body,

offered that mentors – people who care about

“Life can move along so smoothly that

mind and soul. And those critical factors?

what you are doing – are added blessings who

you don’t realize how easy you have it.

They include passion, training, strategy, and

can make all the difference in a person’s life.

Then, one choice, one reaction, one instant,

accountability. I stopped him at accountabil-

“Growing up, had I had a mentor or a

and upheaval occurs,” muses Philip. For him

ity, lamenting its absence in the pervasive

person who cared about me being a great

it happened when he was driving home

“Me-First” mindset that runs amok in society

American or making me a better American,

from football practice with a teammate and

today, praising its value in developing integ-

I just wonder how much more I would have

rity and character.

accomplished. I ended up being very fortu-

Philip believes that accountability in life

nate, going to the academy, doing well, then

goes both ways. First you have to be account-

being invited into Special Operations. But as I

able for your own actions and equally you

step back now, I think we as a culture haven’t

have to hold others around you accountable

done a great job personally mentoring people

too. Without it, chaos ensues.

since the days of the Greatest Generation

“To be perfectly honest,” he told me,

who served as role models for the next gen-

“that until you’re a business owner or a pilot

erations. It’s partly because of the new digital

in command of an aircraft, you don’t really

spectrum that has altered our lives so much,

realize just how important it is for everybody

and the changing dynamics of families and

to do what they say they’re going to do, not

community ties.”

just when others are looking, but always, con-

Philip Jalufka believes in the power of

sistently, again and again. Sometimes it’s a lot

personal possibilities and team work, and has

harder than you think, and easier said than

spent a good part of his life demonstrating

done, but when you instill those parameters

that commitment. Tenacious on the football

in your Life Equation, the accountability factor

field, he attributed much of his prowess to

helps you become unstoppable.”

team practices, fine tuning moves, plays and

To underscore his point, Philip has written

strategies that paid off in games. “If you know

a book that’s part memoir, part interview,

anything about Texas, you know that high

and all heart as he shares personal stories

school football isn’t merely a game. It’s the

about his life’s journey and the people who

shining beacon of Friday night lights, where

influenced him along the way.

a local kid becomes a hero, a name that is

“The book, whose title will be revealed with its release on Veteran's Day, is basically

two friends during his senior year in high school. The driver was in a hurry, carelessly speeding along the country roads when a quick turn of the wheel by his front seat passenger careened their car into a tree to avoid crashing into an oncoming vehicle. The driver and his friends walked away from the

forever etched in the annals of the town’s proud heritage.”

an interview of many people over many years, from high school to West Point to Special Ops to Hall of Famers to business associates, filled with anecdotes, humor and lessons learned about what it takes to have a successful mission in battling life’s challenges,” he explained. “One misstep and it could be all over.” Listening is critical to your plan for life, he says, a skill that takes practice and focus, as is communication and honest open dialog. Goals are necessary, of course, but you need a strategy and true passion to make them CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT: Profile

He honed his determination to succeed in the school of hard knocks, having spent two years in a junior military college, four years at the Academy, and eight years as a commissioned, special operations aviation officer in the US Army, where daily life was rigorous and regimented. “Success is not random. It isn’t the result of luck. Results come from following a process. In my years of military service and as a member of Special Ops, we trained over and over again in the same exercises and tactics. When a mission needed to be completed in 30 minutes, an additional 30 seconds could make the difference between life and death. Every process had been tested and proven. Every team member followed the process with the exact same precision. Each of us carried identical weapons and ammunition. Actions would be carried out with little or no words, because we each knew that everyone accident. Battered and bruised, Philip was

amount of time”, his application received a

rendered unconscious by the impact and

mandatory medical disqualification. He was

first responders had to use the jaws of life to

advised that he would have to wait two years

extract him from the car.

from the incident before he could re-apply.

He spent a few weeks in the hospital and,

“Two years is a lifetime to an active, driven

except for spending an undetermined amount

teenager,” remembers Philip. “I was derailed.

of time unconscious, his injuries healed with

I read and reread the letter that dashed my

no lingering effects. Life returned to normal

dreams, desperate to find hope. I had planned

for Philip after that until he received a letter

to complete my senior year in high school

that stopped him in his tracks. He had applied

with the crystal-clear view of my future at

to the United States Military Academy at West

West Point. But that was no longer an option.

Point where he planned to play football and

Sure, I could attend a college or university,

graduate to serve his country as an officer in

but that didn’t appeal to me in the least. That

the U.S. Army. He had been waiting for his

alternative was an 'out' that I wasn’t willing

acceptance letter ever since.

to explore.”

could count on them to do what they were supposed to do. Everyone was held accountable for any missteps that happened along the way.” That he later transitioned to the life of an entrepreneur is yet another reflection of his resolve to achieve a successful mission no matter the challenges. “It took me until my forties to be able to really understand the dynamics of taking the risk of being entrepreneurial, of taking all those competence factors and layering in another risk in order to gain a measure of reward. I definitely don’t think I was born an entrepreneur, but I received “gifts” from many

He knew that West Point admissions was

Understandably unhappy but undeterred,

complicated and competitive, with hard-won

he sought out solutions, a tactic he’s lived

people who had the entrepreneurial spirit,”

congressional recommendations and other

by ever since. In spite of a spate of setbacks

he explained.

stringent requirements needed for accep-

and start-overs, he not only attended West

Now the head of a multi-million-dollar

tance. He met them hands down. But what

Point, he graduated with the maturity and

global real estate marketing and consulting

he didn’t know was that the Department of

resolve of a man on a path filled with purpose.

services firm specializing in new homes and

Defense Medical Review Board also had to

As he is quick to say “you can spend time

residential development, Philip learned the

approve his admission to West Point. When

placing blame when something doesn’t go

business from the bottom up when he landed

Philip’s medical record was submitted to the

as planned.

his first job in sales after leaving the military.

Board, with the notation that he had been knocked “unconscious for an undetermined 20

in the battalion followed the process and we

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

But finger-pointing does nothing to fix the mistake. It just delays the fix.”

“I didn’t know what I was doing, but I knew all about team work and training so I jumped

in with both feet and hit the ground running.”

of 190,000 real estate brokers, thanks to its

throughout the year. Says Philip, “This initia-

His solutions-oriented training techniques,

affiliation with Keller Williams, renowned as

tive allows every Legacy team member to

bottom line focused, top down aligned, ulti-

world’s largest real estate technology fran-

know they are changing lives in meaningful

mately provided the foundation for starting

chise by agent count with 1,060 offices and

ways.”

his own business, Legacy International, in

more than 182,000 associates worldwide.

What does he attribute his company’s

2007 as builders and developers interested

In the last three years, the company

in marketing their properties sought out his

expanded with the opening of Legacy

“Business smarts really come down to the

specialized services. Today, the company

Performance Capital (LPC), an asset man-

‘who’ and the ‘what.’ When you start thinking

boasts a portfolio of active adult, luxury

agement firm personally resourced with a

about the ‘where’ is when you become a

residential, resort and metropolitan master

half-billion-dollar investment by Philip and

plan communities that has generated over $2

dynamic entrepreneur. Thinking differently

his high net worth business partner. Their

billion in sales revenue to date and includes

portfolio includes residential real estate

is when you figure out the ‘why.’ Because if

properties across the Southeastern U.S.,

assets throughout central Texas and planned

Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Belize, Puerto

development of almost 1,500 new homes.

Rico, Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas and

Future goals for his firm include launching

the Dominican Republic. His most recent win

a subscription-based, content-rich online

puts Legacy International in front of an army

fortress for new homes sales professionals, with an eye towards building the largest community on the planet. Building his enterprise is not the only venture on Philip’s mind these days. He also supports his fellow veterans with jobs at Legacy and charitable donations through Heroes for Freedom, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans and first responders. Since 2008, Philip and the Legacy Organizations have pledged a percentage of every dollar made from sales at all the engaged residential communities to the Foundation in order to resource various Warrior events and personal needs

success to?

you can figure out the motivation, the “why,” all of a sudden everything starts to overlap – or will –for a bigger reason in any given day. My business has been all about real estate ever since I left military service, first as a sales manager for a real estate business, and currently as the founder of Legacy International. Yes, we mentor and train agents, builders and developers to successfully market their properties to homeowners, but what we’re really doing, our ultimate mission, is changing people’s lives. At the heart of all we do are the people we interact with every day, our families, our teammates, our clients and their clients.” Inspired by his thoughtful, unabashedly genuine answer, we had to ask just one more question. Of all the successful missions and achievements he has logged throughout his life, what does he consider his biggest accomplishment? He didn’t hesitate with his answer. “My family photo says it all. My family is my absolute most important accomplishment – my wife of almost 28 years whom I married after graduating from West Point, my older daughter who is just finishing up her degree in Mechanical Engineering at Colorado University, Boulder, and my younger daughter who is studying Business Entrepreneurship and playing competitive college golf in California at Cal Poly and hopes to pursue a possible LPGA career. They are my strongest pillar, my greatest blessing and having them by my side is, by far, my proudest achievement.” All of which has made Philip Jalufka’s legacy so powerful – and unstoppable. ☐ CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT: Event

Photos by Patrick Sikes

The Steelpointe Yacht & Charter show was held at the Bridgeport Harbor Marina, over Father’s Day Weekend. Over 11,500 attendees, coming the from all over the country and Europe, attended the show throughout the weekend. This one-of-akind, 'Invitation-Only,' luxury show played host to many mega luxury toys in the aviation, automobile, yacht, jewelry and collectible categories. Venü Magazine was and remains a proud partner of the Steelpointe Yacht & Charter Show and Wings, Wheels, Water & Art Kick-Off event slated for next Father’s Day Weekend!

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Photo by Tracey Thomas

The Steelpointe Yacht & Charter Show

Photo by Tracey Thomas

SAVE THE DATE: JUNE 16TH – 19TH, 2022! SEE YOU THERE!

APPETITE

By Fred Bollaci

THE BEST OF TAMPA BAY, PART TWO:

St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Pinellas County Beaches, and Towns In-Between

TOP: Rack of Lamb at The Black Pearl BOTTOM LEFT: Bouillabaisse at Parts of Paris RIGHT: Brussel Sprouts and Beets at Il Ritorno

Across the bay in Pinellas County, let’s start in St. Petersburg, a city that has been totally transformed this past decade. Many Floridians are staycationing in “The Burg” and other inviting area towns, and have found it easy to spend a few days enjoying the great museums, including the famed Salvador Dali Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, and the Chihuly Collection, miles of white sand beaches, numerous recreational opportunities, and family-friendly atmosphere! Today, Pinellas County has earned its place as a foodie destination, complementing the culinary renaissance taking place in Tampa. In “St. Pete,” the trendy Birchwood is the hip place to stay (enjoy the restaurant and The Canopy rooftop bar). Stroll to Annata Wine Bar, BellaBrava, Flûte & Dram (Champagne and caviar), Tropez St. Pete (breakfast/brunch) and Stillwaters Tavern. Try The Cider Press Café (raw and vegan), Red Mesa Cantina (Mexican) and Brick & Mortar (rustic New American). The Library has great New American cuisine in a gorgeous urban-chic setting.

For an excellent “nosh,” visit Jo-El’s Kosher Deli. Italophiles will be singing “That’s Amore” after visiting Mazzaro’s, a huge Italian market known for its bakery and fresh pastas. My favorite for Italian in “The Burg” is Il Ritorno by Chef David Benstock. Try the 5-course tasting menu with matching wines. For Japanese, try Ichihoro Ane (Ramen), and Sushi Sho Rexley for sushi. The much-anticipated Lingr by Top Chef Jeffrey Jew, serves elevated Asian fare. Two beautiful historic hotels are the Renaissance Vinoy®, overlooking Tampa Bay (Marchand’s restaurant), and The Don CeSar, directly on St. Petersburg Beach (try Maritana for dinner). Also in St. Pete Beach, Castile Restaurant and 360° Rooftop is a favorite for cocktails and dinner, as is Grace. La Casa del Pane is a lovely Italian-style café with wonderful bread and pastries. In nearby Gulfport, try cozy Pia’s Trattoria for Italian, and Backfin Blue Café (seafood). Locals enjoy BRGR Kitchen & Bar in the Treasure Island Beach Resort. Salt Rock Grill (Indian Shores) on the Intracoastal is a longtime favorite. The group owns a number of other great concepts throughout the area. In Pinellas Park, try Da Sesto (Italian), and Ha Long Bay for Vietnamese and dim sum. For French, Café Largo in Largo. Clearwater favorites include Acqua Alta (Venetian), Bascom’s Chop House (steak), Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza, Ken’s Sushi & Asian Bistro, and Felice’s Italian Deli. On Clearwater Beach, Caretta on the Gulf at the Sandpearl, the area’s most elegant hotel, is the place for brunch and dinner, overlooking the Gulf. For breakfast of lunch with a side of humor, try Lenny’s. For timeless American comfort food, visit Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber (1948). Aside from the two largest cities, Pinellas County is a patchwork of charming towns and villages, each with its own personality. Throughout this busy area, you will find many diamonds in the rough. In charming Safety Harbor, Parts of Paris (French in a quaint cottage), and Nona Slice House and Pizzeria Gregario for their unique styles of pizza are tops. The Safety Harbor Spa is a relaxing place to stay and be pampered, overlooking Tampa Bay. Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage boasts a lovely downtown, steps from the water. The Black Pearl is the most elegant spot in town,

For more information about Fred Bollaci Enterprises, visit: www.fredbollacienterprises.com 24

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

With Chef David Benstock at Il Ritorno

and The Restorative’s food resembles works of art. For cocktails, Sonder Social Club, Mexican, Casa Tina, and Bon Appétit is known for its spectacular waterfront location (dolphins, sunsets, and Continental cuisine). Up the road in Palm Harbor, sweet tooths will love Strachan’s (also in Dunedin) with homemade ice cream and carrot cake. Mystic Fish, with roots in Bermuda (the famed Lobster Pot) serves great seafood (Bermuda Chowder with Gosling’s rum and spiced sherry). Golfers will love Innisbrook, a renowned golf resort (play the championship Copperhead course, and enjoy excellent steaks at Packard’s). In quaint Ozona, Molly Goodhead’s is a slice of Old Florida. The Lucky Dill is home to “the sandwich that ate Brooklyn,” bring your appetite, the Reuben’s are great! Tarpon Springs, home to one of the largest Greek communities in the country is a smorgasbord for Hellenophiles. The downtown is a major tourist destination with shops, restaurants, and bakeries. Tarpon Springs is famous for sponges, which are found in local waters and sold in town. For dining, try Bayou Bistro, Hellas, and The Limani. In suburban Oldsmar, we love the contemporary American fare, tableside Guacamole, and S’mores at FlameStone, and Casa Coszenza for Italian. ☐ Pasta alle Vongole at Acqua Alta

paul-buisse.com

Family run with a mission of bringing knowledge and experience while embracing their love of the Loire Valley and its soil, instilling a true passion in the process.

capeclassics.com Know Your Importer VENU_Buisse.indd 1

9/30/21 5:41 PM

T H I R D A N N UA L G O L F K I T C H E N C U L I N A R Y E X C E L L E N C E AWA R D S

Club Chefs Create a Magical Dining Experience at GlenArbor Golf Club BY DIANA DELUCIA | PHOTOS BY: MICHAEL J. FIEDLER | CLUBHOUSE IMAGE: COURTESY GLENARBOR GOLF CLUB

T 26

he third annual Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards at the prestigious

historical roots and preserve the quintessential Bedford

GlenArbor Golf Club, Bedford Hills, New York, was a sell-out event after miss-

homestead feeling.

ing the 2020 event due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Distinguished guests arrived at the clubhouse at 6.30 p.m. The GlenArbor clubhouse

the 30,000 square feet clubhouse is situated on a

was built on the site of the White Estate, which was one of the largest historic estates in

commanding site overlooking the golf course and

the Town of Bedford. GlenArbor’s master plan concept was to re-establish the property’s

provides countless amenities in an intimate and

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

APPETITE: Golf

comfortable environment. The focus of the main floor is the dining room and grill room, which open onto traditionally covered porches and take advantage of sweeping views of the first and eighteenth fairways. The clubhouse is a preferred location for intimate dinners and more significant events of up to 160 guests. “The GlenArbor Experience is one of the finest in the world. Preserving the traditions of golf through a delicious combination of design, challenge, concierge service and instruction at one of the most beautiful courses in the USA!” ~Gary Player Guests were greeted with a 2021 Rolls Royce White Ghost parked in front owned by New York Socialite Roman Rakovsky, followed by a caviar tasting by Haute Caviar Company paired with sparkling wines provided by E & J Gallo and Wilson Daniels.

TOP: Michael Ruggiero, Host and Executive Chef at GlenArbor Golf Club, Bedford Hills, New York. RIGHT: Ed Leonard, Director of Culinary Operations accepts the 2021 Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence award from Diana DeLucia, Golf Kitchen

Kitchen

APPETITE: Golf

Kitchen

From here, enthusiasts were escorted to the stunning patio that overlooks the gorgeous valley and 18th green below. Wines were generously supplied by E & J Gallo and Wei-Lui, portfolio consultant. Liberty National’s Shaun C. Lewis, Executive Chef \ Assistant General Manager created Clubhouse Cocktails, and mixologist Rachel Holden prepared them. Mike DiChiara of Cohesity hosted the renowned Floating Green, which sits on the right of the patio always a favorite among guests trying to land their balls onto the

TOP: Left to right: Morgan Gregory, President at GlenArbor Golf Club, Rhonda Vetere, CIO at Herbalife Nutrition, Author at Grit and Grind, Speaker and Athlete, Diana DeLucia, Tracey Thomas, Editor in Chief at Venü Magazine RIGHT: Juan Pablo de la Sota Riva Leal, Executive Chef at Royal Poinciana Golf Club, Naples, Florida.

floating green on the lake below. Members and guests were treated to small bites and hors d’oeuvres by Michael Ruggiero, Host and Exec-

staunch support of the GlenArbor and Golf Kitchen initiatives. Fernando Silva, Somme-

utive Chef at GlenArbor Golf Club and Keven Sullivan,

lier and Wine Director, followed this, announcing the first-ever WineRating System

guest chef at Innes Arden Golf Club, Old Greenwich, CT.

targeted to the Private Golf and Country Club industry worldwide. Silva also announced

At 7.30 p.m., members and guests were escorted to

the new Wine Program award and is building a high-profile committee in the Wine Indus-

the main dining room for a dinner to remember. A room of fully vaccinated people came together and enjoyed this intimate dining industry event.

try globally to ensure its complete success. The first course was created by Juan Pablo de la Sota Riva, Executive Chef at Royal Poinciana Golf Club, Naples, Florida. Guests were wowed by this decadent “Smoked

The event started with GlenArbor’s President Mr.

Florida King Fish & NC Marshallberg Farm Osetra Caviar, Potato Causa, Nero Sauce,

Morgan Gregory’s heartfelt opening speech with his

Sweet Potato Pillow, Corn Salsa, and Aji Limo Leche de Tigre” paired with Drouhin-Vau-

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

LEFT: Skip Powell and Christian Bangert from New Canaan, Connecticut. RIGHT: Thomas Capobianco, President at Hafsco and recipient of the 2021 Golf Kitchen Purveyor of the Year award. BOTTOM: Wei-Lui, Portfolio Manager at E & J Gallo, Roman Rakovsky (@toughdoors), Art-Fashion and Nightlife Socialite, New York City, Laurent Drouhin, Maison Joseph Drouhin, Fernando Silva, Sommelier and Wine Director at GlenArbor Golf Club, Bedford Hills, New York

The most emotional moment of the evening was the Golf Kitchen Rising Star Award presentation to Hannah Flora-Mihajlovic, Executive Chef at Mizner Country Club, Delray Beach, Florida. At 28, Mihajlovik has single-handedly created awareness of the talent the younger generation possesses. Tears flew from DeLucia and Mihajlovik as they shared memories of the past year. DeLucia then introduced Maison Joseph Drouhin’s Laurent Drouhin, who presented the first-ever Wine Program award in the Private Golf and Country Club space to Mr. Morgan Gregory and Fernando Silva. Smiles followed as these initiatives keep coming for the Golf

don Chablis Premier Cru, Burgundy, France 2018. Diana DeLucia, President at Golf Kitchen, announced the Golf Kitchen initiatives and presented the Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence for an outstanding golf or country club to Ed Stone, Executive Chef, on behalf of Baltusrol Golf Club Springfield, New Jersey. DeLucia then presented the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Award for Outstanding Executive Chef at a Private golf or country club to Ed Leonard, Culinary Director, and former American Culinary Federation (ACF) president. The second course prepared by Dominic Calla, Executive Chef at the very private golf club Round Hill Club in Greenwich, CT. Calla served up “Chicken Fried Sweet Breads, Red Cabbage Mustard, Shaved Brussel Sprout Slaw, Amber Bacon Sauce” paired with “Maison Joseph Drouhin, Puligny Montrachet, Burgundy, France 2018.”

Left to right: Luciane Serifovic, Founder of Luxian International Realty | HNW Sports & Entertainment Advisor, NYC, François Belizaire, Vice President of Sales and Partnerships at Golf Kitchen, Luxury & Lifestyle Strategist at VENÜ Magazine, Diana DeLucia

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

APPETITE: Golf

Kitchen

flavor. Hancock accepted the Golf Kitchen Visionary Leader in Club Management Award on behalf of Martel Meyer, a renowned General Manager who is known for turning around the culinary side of a private golf and country club space. DeLucia presented the final award, the Golf Kitchen Purveyor of the year, to Thomas Capobianco, President at HAFCO, New Haven, CT. Capobianco is a darling in the private golf and country club kitchen world. “Capobianco has worked hard to make it in this industry. I doubt anyone can capture the market in the North East as Tommy has. He has an endearing family that no doubt

Kitchen and GlenArbor brands. The third course was “Dry Aged Ribeye, Little Carrots, Green Peppercorn Jus, Matsutake Cream, Button Chanterelles, and Petite Lacinato Kale” paired with “Maison Joseph Drouhin, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru ‘Proces’ Burgundy, France 2017.” This recipe was presented by Jonathan Hancock, Executive Chef at Richland Country Club, Nashville, Tennessee. Hancock is another young 33-year-old Executive Chef that has an extraordinary flair with plating and

TOP LEFT: Modern contemporary artist, Paul Gerben, New York City, Rhonda Vetere, Diana DeLucia RIGHT: Morgan Gregory with Mary Schaffer, Assistant General Manager at Round Hill Club, Greenwich, CT

Left to right: Fernando Silva, Guest Chef Juan Pablo de la Sota Riva Leal, Executive Chef at Royal Poinciana Golf Club, Naples, Florida, Marisa Hernandez, Executive Pastry Chef at GlenArbor Golf Club, Michael Ruggiero, Guest Chef Jonathan Hancock, Executive Chef at Richland Country Club, Diana DeLucia, Guest Chefs Dominic Calla at Round Hill Club, and Kevin Sullivan at Innes Arden Golf Club, Greenwich, CT.

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

will follow his legacy for years to come.” said DeLucia. Dessert prepared by Marisa Hernandez, a much-admired pastry chef at GlenArbor, was a “Chocolate Cardamom Cake with Kumquat Compote, Raspberry Ice Crème, and Almond Brittle” paired with “Castello di Volpaia, Vin Santo del Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy 2014.” A Silent Auction presented by Grandstand Sports followed for the Golf Kitchen scholarship program, whose initiative is to ultimately raise the full tuition for a culinary student that will pursue a career in the private golf and country club industry. DeLucia insists on a full scholarship program as she is trying to raise awareness to the younger set that culinary positions are abundant in this industry.

TOP: Ricky King, Sous Chef at Mizner Country Club with Alexandra DeBello, Industry professional, Diana DeLucia, Hannah Flora-Mihajlovik, Executive Chef at Mizner Country Club and Marc-Etienne Hoffmann, Food & Beverage Operations Manager at Mizner Country Club.

cois Belizaire, for bringing some exciting guests in from Manhattan and Venu Magazine for generously donating a follow-up story in your 2021 Fall/Holiday issue. Thank you, Maison Joseph Drouhin, E & J Gallo, Haute Caviar, Wilson Daniels, for generously supplying high-quality products for this event. To all the members and guest that attended, we are thrilled to hear your positive feedback and we look forward to seeing you in 2022! ☐

BOTTOM: Rob Labritz PGA, Director of Golf at GlenArbor Golf Club and Chiropractor Kerry Labritz enjoy the evening.

Special thanks to Morgan Gregory, President, Rob Labritz, PGA, Director of Golf, Fernando Silva, Sommelier and Wine Director, Michael Ruggiero, Executive Chef, Jessica Perez, Director of Concierge and Assistant Director of Events and Alisha Turchick, Director of Events for your continued support. The evening was a smashing success due to the Jessica and the GlenArbor team’s flawless execution and attention to detail throughout the event. From the beautiful floral centerpieces provided by Flowers & Flowers by Adam Manjuck in Darien CT and the gorgeous Dark Green Pintuck Linen the dining room looked truly spectacular. Thanks to FranCONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

STYLE: Introduction

“My aim is to explore and share luxury & lifestyle brands and the abundance that comes along with it.”

Greetings and Abundance. My name is François Wolff Belizaire and it’s an honor to meet you. With over 25 years in the fashion, luxury goods, and hospitality industries, I have developed and nurtured a reputation for excellence. It is my entrepreneurial zest and spirit, along with adhering to my core values of providing an honest and first-class experience to the most discerning clientele at the premier fashion brands and Houses,

importantly would continue to expand its

that has allowed me to be recognized as

reach, redefining luxury lifestyle products

a successful visionary.

and experiences for myself and my clients.

I have provided unparalleled services to UHNW, sports, entertainment, influential figures, and Royal families of sovereign

Marc Brodsky

nations throughout my career.

FRANÇOIS Wolff Belizaire

It was a trend on its way to becoming a standard. An early personal example of the power of a technology + luxury integra-

My personal work ethos and leadership

tion happened while I was working at

has translated into creatively fruitful work-

Hermès. They had just introduced their

ing environments across every aspect

now iconic leather watchband, specifi-

of luxury brands, hospitality (including

cally, designed for the Apple Watch. This

concierge), and private clubs with sales,

same exact watchband is adorned to the

business development, cross-marketing,

finest Hermès watches valued upwards to

and event management. Some of these

$250K but also the most sought after by

brands included : Nordstroms, Hugo Boss,

watch collectors. The buzz that was organ-

Barneys New York, Hermès, Debauve &

ically created around the product took

Gallais Chocolats, CELINE (LVMH Group),

everyone by surprise, and sure enough, it

Moda Operandi, Puzhen Life, and Quint-

was sold out in every color and size in less

essentially.

than a week.

I will share that some of the inspirations

I aspire is to bring the most innovative,

for this column stem from a very powerful,

“best of the best”, sustainable, functional,

personal “aha” moment. It happened while

coolest and sexiest products, technology,

I was attending one of many global luxury

art, and experiences to you, my friends and

events several years ago. Be it the unlim-

family here at VENÜ.

ited selection of gadgets that one collects, a super 4D television with an absolutely superb surround, or the wow factor of test driving a limited-edition SuperCar, a new trend was unfolding before me. It was apparent to me that pathways for the assimilation of technology into lifestyle products, “smart products” as they are known today, was just emerging and most 32

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

With gratitude,

GIFT GUIDE

VENÜ H O L I D AY

GIFT GUIDE

Airplane Cocktail Shaker Life is too short for a boring Cocktail Shaker! Make this your everyday shaker or part of your barware collection. It is nickel plated so it will never need polishing. Lattice House is a store that sells a carefully curated mix of new and found pieces. Everything we select for the store is evaluated through a single lens so our whole collection has a consistent level of style and quality. latticehousehome.com | 917-520-0120 | $135

Capra NV Royal Club Majestic and monumental, the Royal Club is crafted from metal alloys used in Supercars and the diamond engraved finish is an amorphic blend of gold and carbon black. The exterior is handset with 6 precious cabochons and at 3.7 ounces, a sense of nobility meets balance and fluidity when writing. Garnet or Onyx. Rollerball. 5.35”L x .6”D www.Wolffique.com | $1400.00

Le Kool Champagne Grand Cru 2015 Champagne Paul Berthelot from Dizy, a village near Epernay, has teamed up with Robert "Kool" Bell, a founding member of the legendary, Kool & the Gang group, to design a new vintage. Le Kool Grand Cru is the House’s Iconic Vintage Champagne, that rivals the very best of the best. Estate bottled a minimum of 5 Years in the cellar, it embodies the brand’s unique ability to deliver exceptional tasting wines time and time again. Perfect for life’s most cherished moments or any occasion worth celebrating with style, elegance, and class. 80% Pinot Noir 20% Chardonnay. lekoolchampagne.com | $99.99

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Hermes Speedster by Seven Seas Yachts The Hermes Speedster from Seven Seas Yachts has arrived on US shores. This exclusive boat - limited in production to 24 units per year worldwide - is the perfect sea-faring homage to the iconic Porsche 356. The Speedster is the perfect luxury day-boat or mega-yacht tender, with hand-crafted features like the full-marine leather interior. Contact us about the exquisite Hermes Speedster. www.hermes-craft.com | Price on request

Elegant & Versatile Pure Silver Mesh Scarf SAY IT WITH SILVER THIS YEAR! Wrap your loved ones in pure luxury with an elegant silver scarf that will enhance every outfit. It offers valuable antimicrobial benefits to help protect a most precious asset, our health. Made of 99% ionically plated silver, TRU47 Silver Mesh Neck Scarves naturally inhibit the spread of invasive germs and bacteria. Measurements - 75" X 13.5" Learn more at TRU47.com www.TRU47.com | $98

Taste of the Mediterranean Gift Set Curated selection of Vervana exceptional-quality pantry essentials: Black Label EVOO* with pour spout, Dipping Spices, Chickpea and Red Lentil Pastas*, Marinara and Arrabbiata Sauces*, Artichoke Risotto*, Tanzanian Dark Chocolate* and handmade olive wood bowl and spoon. (* = Organic) Delectable, Italian-inspired superfoods. vervana.com | $149.99 (price includes shipping). CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

GIFT GUIDE

Studio Minerale Item shown is green amethyst, citrine, white topaz, gold-filled and vermeil. Studio Minerale prides itself on working with clients and their budgets to create beautiful, one of a kind jewelry pieces for home and travel. Look chic whether you are going to the beach or to a gala! We look forward to working with you via phone or Zoom for your comfort. Follow us on Instagram! @studiominerale, for direct contact, DM us! https://studiominerale.com | $495

Haute Caviar Collection Fortified with strong quality and humanistic values, Haute Caviar Company is home to a discerning group of caviar enthusiasts who aim to deliver you the most abundant resources and experiences that you deserve. As professionals driven by passion and transparency, we understand the complexity of this luxury perishable and valued food. hautecaviarcompany.com | Priced according to farm, harvest and type, please inquire

DuetteNYC / The Laight With New York recently dominating the Fashion Week runway, this newcomer captured our attention. Meet DuetteNYC’s sleek vegan leather beauty. Cocktail party ready; this sexy zip-front croc embossed jacket goes from day to glam in seconds with style and confidence. Made for women who need their clothes to keep up with their busy lifestyle. DuetteNYC.com | $325 36

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Cape Classics Family-run for five generations, handpicked and sustainably farmed with a focus on improving their community, Excelsior Wines deliver an extraordinary value for the price. These wines make frequent appearances on the Top 100 Best Buy lists for a reason! Brilliant for holiday parties, they offer something for everyone: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. excelsior.co.za | $9.99

Pair of Cast Iron Horse Door Stops Each doorstop is marked, Copyright 1949 VA Metalcrafters Waynesboro, VA. One Horse has the nameplate - Citation and the other the nameplate Hunter. These would also look great on a fireplace mantel or as bookends. latticehousehome.com | 917-520-0120 $275 for the pair

ZIMARTY / Loop Necklace Loop collection is inspired by the Hilbert Curve of a German mathematician David Hilbert. The design process involves multiple iterations of transforming a simple 2d pattern into a 3D architectural form in response to the human body as a context. Loop’s irregular, but continuous movements dance along your body as a beautiful statement piece on its own. The Loop’s necklace is fully 3D printed from a strong yet flexible nylonbased polymer that is comfortable to wear. zimarty.com | $285

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

GIFT GUIDE

Royal Albartross / The Windsor V2 OG MOLEFE In a dusty part of South Africa, beneath the smoky haze, you will find a once illegal dumping ground that has been turned into a driving range. It’s in SOWETO, that children who live in extreme poverty are being introduced to the game of golf, by a passionate golfer and sport commentator: OG Molefe. The OG Molefe Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that’s been adopted by Royal Albartross as its charity partner. To this end they have launched their first product together, THE WINDSOR V2 OG MOLEFE. us.albartross.com | ogmolefefoundation.org | $ 35

Schultz & Blaustein / Shearling Lamb Jacket Fully reversible gunmetal Spanish merino hooded shearling lamb jacket with horizontal groove. With a combined 200 years of experience, the Schultz and Blaustein families have been serving the tri-state area with all luxury outerwear needs. Sharing a philosophy stemming from a strong belief in customer service, the two companies joined forces in 2016, creating a commanding presence in the industry. Sbfurs.com | Price on request

Speakeasy Harlem Map Ceramic Luxury Candle This candle features our signature “Speakeasy” scent housed in a ceramic vessel portraying E. Simms Campbell’s “Nightclub Map of Harlem” illustration from 1932. This illustration highlights the iconic speakeasies and musicians during the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Once the candle finishes, the vessel becomes a beautiful home decor piece. www.harlemcandlecompany.com | $90.00 38

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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SPOTLIGHT

Photo by Patric

k Sikes

MIAMI BEACH, FL

1700 Cleveland Rd. 5 BD | 4 BA | 3,566 SF | $4,175,000 As longtime residents of South Florida, Melissa and her team have their fingers on the pulse of this vibrant community. With innovative marketing skills, honest communication, and meticulous attention to detail, Melissa delivers a flawless experience and helps her clients reach their real estate goals.

Melissa J. Rubin

Lic. RE Salesperson melissaj@compass.com M: 305.984.7706

DESIGN: Giving

Back

Ken Gemes Interiors

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Design Gives Back

The Lewis Design Group

WRITTEN BY MEGAN REILLY PHOTOS BY ALAN BARRY

t’s been an unpredictable last year,

ence is ‘Rooms With a View’ (RWAV), one

but the home design industry has

of the East Coast’s longest-standing char-

weathered the storm better than most.

ity events. Now in its 26th year, the event

As consumers hunkered down—work-

returns to the Southport Congregational

ing from home, schooling at home and

Church in Southport, Connecticut November

4-7. The organizers had considered going virtual this year, but as the world started to reopen, it became clear that the community and design industry were as eager as ever to bring it back in full force.

finding renewed comfort at home in

general—many design brands and interior designers have found themselves busier than ever. We’ve been hearing all about the supply chain issues and backorders on everything from furniture to kitchen appliances, as demand has soared with stuck-athome homeowners realizing just how much their spaces could benefit from some overdue upgrades and added comfort. And while many design professionals may be seeing their businesses booming, their spirit of giving back is equally alive and well. From scholarship funds and mentoring programs, to events that focus on food insecurity and homelessness, the design industry has continued to flex its muscles when it comes to philanthropy. One such event that is making a differ-

The Tailored Home

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGN: Giving

Back

Parker & Company

As part of the event, 12 designers have been enlisted to create a totally immersive series of vignettes. We’ve seen the talent designers can bring to a showhouse, but this concept pushes the envelope even more-so given the time and space constraints. With the help of sponsors like Waterworks, Stark and Circa Lighting, design teams have less than a week to transform their blank canvases into showhoues-like vignettes, each one measuring six-by-eight with three sheetrock walls, a ceiling, and electricity. One would never know these are temporary spaces given the detailed art and craftsmanship that goes into them. Past participants have plastered, wallpapered, stuccoed, mirrored, lacquered and paneled their three walls plus laid parquet, sisal, antique tile, marble, limestone, and carpet, then built bookcases, windows and sometimes fireplaces before installing furnishings, drapery, antiques, objects, and

J.P. Franzen Associates

art. The result is a masterful pop-up that beckons guests to engage with the creators, discover new resources, and be inspired by an overwhelming show of creativity. In total, 600+ rooms have been fabricated since ‘Rooms With a View’ launched back in 1993. There has been an artist’s garret, a gentleman’s office at the beach, a Park Avenue houseboat (in a nod to global warming), a study featuring Mary Tyler Moore’s tarot collection, and even a meditation room that subtly changed colors when sensing movement. Albert Hadley, the preeminent American designer who counted the likes of Brooke 44

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Astor and Jacqueline Kennedy as clients, played a prominent role in getting RWAV off the ground. He continued to be one of its best advocates up until his death in 2012, serving as the event’s hands-on design director and honorary chairman. Hadley also developed a formula for inviting the participating designers which carries over still to this day: six men, six women; six New York-based, six Fairfield County-based; six established, six new. 2021 designers include:

Alexis Blake (Eleish van Breems Studio) Christopher Maya • Edwina Hunt and Pimi Pampill • Eneia White Fiona Leonard Interiors Fisher Interiors • Laura Casale Architect Nicky James • Olivia Charney Interior Design • Ruger Interiors Sean Desmond • William Lyon Designs Since its inception, ‘Rooms with a View’ has raised over $1.775 million dollars for 18 charities throughout Connecticut, supporting multiple causes. A few years ago, the event also launched a scholarship fund with the New York School of Interior Design (NYSID). As part of the program, one upper-level NYSID student is invited to join the RWAV designer roster the following year. The scholarship’s most recent beneficiary, Sean Desmond, was selected in 2019 before the pandemic-induced hiatus, and now finally has the chance to put his work on display. “The college is incredibly grateful that our RWAV friends established the scholarship. In addition to the financial support provided,

Interior designer Kelly Wearstler greets a family in their new ‘A Sense of Home’ home.

A Sense of Home

And over on the West Coast, designers are at it too, putting their skills to work for those in need. One organization that is leveraging such designer talent is Los Angeles-based ‘A Sense of Home’ (ASOH), a group that helps prevent homelessness by creating first-ever homes for youth aging out of the foster care system. Started in 2015, ASOH has now created more than 630 homes with donated furniture and home goods, helping 1,500+ former foster youth and their children. When you learn that 50% of those struggling with homelessness are former foster children, you further grasp the organization’s critical mission to keep these kids off the street.

answered this call, helping to turn empty interiors into homes. “I’ve always been an ardent supporter of the organization. We most recently helped create a home for a young mother, and I was moved knowing that she will be able to provide a safe, permanent place for her daughter, where they will be able to create memories and experience life together. I love to include my own family, studio and vendors in the experience too, and I hope to inspire others to take part”, says Wearstler. Looking for ways you can give back and round out your charitable contributions as we enter the final months of 2021? Visit our website for a list of ideas. To give does feel better than to receive, after all! ☐

what makes it even more meaningful to the

A-list interior designer Kelly Wearstler is the

student is the opportunity to design and install

first in the charity’s new Design Challenge

Megan Reilly covers the

a vignette, giving them a taste of what their

Program, where once a month, designers

interior design and home

life as a designer will be like. It is invaluable

decorate a home with their own items and

to someone about to graduate and embark

other “gently used” donated furnishings.

on their new career”, says NYSID President

Furniture and appliance brands are called

David Sprouls.

upon to make sure their excess is given a second life rather than going to landfills.

Tickets start at $25; event details can be found

Brand partners like Casper, Lamps Plus and

at www.roomswithaview.org.

Parachute have stepped up and generously

furnishings industries, and is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of WestEdge Design Fair, an annual tradeshow and lifestyle event held in Santa Monica. She splits her time between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, two great destinations for all things design-related.

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGN: Architect

BY KAMI SLOAN 46

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

ARCHITECTURE'S SOCIAL STRUCTURES FOR HUMANITY

线希望 EDWIN CHAN'S S I LV E R L I N I N G BY KAMI SLOAN

The beauty of silver lining is that they don't take away the rain. Rather, they provide an umbrella. - ELIZABETH MESSINA

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGN: Architect

Orchard Park

JM: Have you developed new design philosophies since the inception of EC3 in 2012 or continued to build off the foundation of your time with Gehry? EC: When I was at FG, I had the liberty to design many so-called stand-alone, iconic projects such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris. When I founded EC3, I wanted to rekindle the relationship of architecture with landscape, social sciences, urbanism, and the arts. Architecture is the catalytic anecdote to building stronger communities.

dwin Chan’s devotion to building a better future is an Art

Our initial ground-up project, True North, has succeeded

of Humanity. (Rénxìng de Yìshù) His interminable long-

in doing that.

term commitment explores forward-looking notions to

meet the responsibilities of the ever-changing chal-

JM: Given your freedom of expression, how do you

lenges we face today in our cities and communities. “We are standing at a crossroads to develop new solutions for mixed-use developments, multi-family residential projects, the workspace, as well as the arts and cultural institutions,” implies Chan. With the topic of climate change and COVID in policy-making decisions that are frequently making headlines, “Architecture must look deeper than its immediate contexts.” Jeffrey Maynard, Principal at Maynard Design + Interiors established in Newport Beach, confabs with Edwin about the past, present, joint efforts, and what the future holds in store for his Los Angeles-based architecture firm EC3. JM: You worked with Frank Gehry for 25 years. How did that experience influence your work? EC: Although FG and I share a similar interest in exploring the sculptural potential of architecture, the most invaluable lesson was the collaborative, hands-on design process. This intuitive and humanistic approach provides an altruistic value that I continue to carry out within my own practice at EC3. 48

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originate a new project? Is there a specific end goal in Pierre Huyghe, Cambrian Explosion, 2014. Live marine ecosystem Stefan Altenburger Photography Zürich @ the artist

mind, or do you let the trajectory symbiotically evolve with the more profound understanding of the space? EC: We do not start a project with a preconceived idea of what the project should be. I think of our design process

as a “creative journey.” We let the project take shape and organically unfold to arrive at its own destination. There’s an old Chinese proverb that says, “When the wind of change blows, some build walls, while others build windmills.” I believe that each new challenge brings an opportunity for change that arouses fulfilling and exciting discoveries. JM: How do you find the balance between functionality and esthetics? EC: Beauty begins from the inside out, and we typically initiate our design process in the same manner. For example, when designing a museum, we always invite the curators and artists to mock up the exhibitions in our physical models to ensure that the galleries complement their artistic aspiration. The galleries in Bilbao were developed through this process to reflect Guggenheim’s director Thomas Krens vision, and similarly, the exhibition spaces at Fondation Louis Vuitton responded to the design brief of its Creative Directors Suzanne Page and Jean-Paul Claverie. My role as an architect is to give form to the dreams of these visionary cultural institutions through architectural expressions. JM: How does art inspire your work, and is there a particular medium of art that you reference more frequently? EC: Although I appreciate many different “periods” and “styles” from the Renaissance and Baroque to Minimalism and Abstract Expressionism, my passion stems from how the artistic disciplines can inform and inspire my own creative process. Recently, we’ve designed a “Year of the Dog” sculpture influenced by the Chinese Scholar Rocks. Nature has been a great source of inspiration for me, and I often look at artists who work with the natural or ephemeral phenomena like Olafur Eliasson or Pierre Huyghe. JM: Why do you prefer hand sketching and physical

TOP: Year of the Dog sculpture

JM: Has integrating technology been a challenging learning curve, or has it been a relatively seamless process? EC: It turns out that our hands-on design process of using physical models and iterative prototyping has

models in the digital era of design and architecture?

been invaluable in working with our tech-company

EC: The making of the physical models is our way of

client to interphase with their state-of-the-art technol-

sketching in 3-D. The models are more grounded and

ogies. To develop the concept design for Green Loop,

intuitive in understanding how the creative gesture

we constructed a full-scale mock-up at the client’s

should respond to the discipline of the physical world,

Mountain View campus to help the client’s team

such as materiality and gravity; hence, working with

visualize the scale and aesthetics of our concept. The

wood and cardboard ultimately keeps the design

demonstration was successful in showing the seamless

honest.

integration of their interactive technology “software” to CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGN: Architect

meet the performance of the architectural “hardware” for the space.

TOP: Green Loop, photo by Jeremy Bittermann

EC: EC3’s architecture prioritizes spatial experience over surfaces with “fussy” finishes and details. We tend

to choose materials based on how they respond to light.

JM: What was most impactful about the camaraderie

For example, different metals (stainless steel, titanium,

of working with the technology firm for project Green

aluminum, etc.) reflect the light and sky differently.

Loop?

Similarly, glass could be used in different transparen-

EC: The tech-company client was impressed by our

cies to address a divergence of functional and privacy

approach to celebrate their humanistic values and cre-

requirements. We also look at how artists transform the

ativity as a “Cultural Project”, rather than highlighting

ordinary to turn into extraordinary artistic expressions.

the technical ingenuity they’re known for.

For the DESTE fashion exhibition at the Bass Museum in

Miami, we developed the installation aesthetic by using

JM: What is the approval process like when present-

hurricane shutters that we found in the local Home

ing such unique visions? Do you often get push back,

Depot. I called it “hurricane chic”; it became the most

and if so, how do you handle these situations?

popular exhibition at the Bass in 2018.

EC: I’ve learned from experience that there’s no place

for opacity. It’s easier to gain approval and acceptance

JM: What are the most significant benefits when col-

when the creative process is more personalized, inclu-

laborating with other architects, designers, artists,

sive and transparent.

and companies, on projects from beginning to end?

EC: The EC3 firm was founded on an ethos of cross-dis-

JM: How do you decide on finish materials? Is it

ciplinary principles to charrette with other designers,

based on local and sustainable products, or how a

artists, engineers, and professionals. Over the years,

material reacts to environmental conditions?

we’ve been fortunate to have developed close working

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

“Beauty comes from abandoning the refuge of the old forms for the uncertainty of the present.” -MICHELANGELO BUONARROTI

thoughtful choreography of materiality with the human scale to empower social interaction. The CHALET project used modular heavy timber elements integrated with site-specific art installations to create an intimate (and fun) experience -a Gesamtkunstwerk for the 21st Century. JM: Do you believe that the interiors of a space need to be in direct correlation with the exterior, or is that dependent on the type of space you are creating?

relationships with other practices to include Munichbased Transsolar for sustainability, New York and Paris-based L'Observatoire for lighting, as well as Detroit and Miami-based ABOVE THE FOLD for project and business strategies. They've become part of our creative ecosystem. JM: How important is the tactile experience to you? EC: At its core, I believe that architecture is an immersive and sensual experience that comes to life through the

TOP: 3-D physical model of Core City Residential LEFT: DESTE Installation at the Bass Museum RIGHT: Edwin Chan © Alexei Tylevich

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGN: Architect

EC: Personally speaking, interior and exterior architecture should have a symbiotic relationship, but not in

TOP: Barn as a Crystal Palace for the 21st century

Francisco’s skyline views for a tech-company’s new workspace.

the modernist “form follows function” sense. Instead,

exterior architecture should embody the aspirations

JM: When developing experiential spaces all across

and essence of the interior spaces. Our design pro-

the globe do you find that most cultures view the work

cess often involves studying and exploring the spatial

you do from a similar perspective, or do you have to

relationships with color-coded massing blocks rep-

run studies and acquire enough data to make sure

resenting the various program elements. After we’ve

your vision will be culturally acceptable?

arrived at an optimal organization for the program, we

EC: To design a project that responds to the geographic

begin to consider the architectural articulations of the

context does not mean copying the cursory architectural

exterior. When it comes to developing the interiors

style of the place. I prefer to capture and express the

of a space, we always try to incorporate natural light

ethos of a place by engrossing myself in the different

and views as crucial design concepts, like the series

cultures of its visual arts, literature, music, and food. For

of interconnected “neighborhoods” oriented to San

Orchard Park in Idaho, the state’s diverse ecosystems

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

“I hope that we will continue to develop and reinterpret design strategies with other projects to make our planet a better and more sustainable place to live, work, and play.” – EDWIN CHAN resonated with my passion for the natural environment.

JM: Can we look towards more sustainable buildings

The sentiment behind reinventing the vernacular of

as a worldwide standard in the future?

the “Barn” as a “Crystal Palace” in modern-day was to

EC: In Sydney, Australia we were very fortunate to have a

showcase the products and brands integral to Idaho’s

tech-company client committed to the same sustainable

outdoor lifestyle.

vision in creating a net-zero future. Consequently, we

were able to work closely with our long-time partners

JM: Do you anticipate a change in the way you

-climate engineer Transsolar and structural engineer

interpret and develop public spaces during these

Eckersley O’Callaghan, to develop a unique design

unprecedented times?

concept for the client’s headquarters tower. However,

EC: I think the pandemic has made everyone appre-

it remains to be seen whether commercial developers in

ciate the importance of having better access to fresh

the U.S. and worldwide would commit to the same vision

air, natural light, and nature. These are values that

and refrain from constructing ubiquitous glass towers

we already prioritize in our design. For the Core City

that have dominated the skylines of cities worldwide. I’m

residential project (our second project in Detroit for

optimistic that our concept will set a new precedent and

the client Prince Concepts), we decided to abandon

benchmark for future developments to come.

the conventional «double-loaded corridor» typology

for multi-family developments in favor of giving each

JM: What do you want people to take away from your

unit more exposure to communal green space. With

architecture?

Orchard Park, we’re cooperating with Transsolar to optimize natural ventilation and daylighting to encourage a synergetic flow between the indoor and outdoor environments.

EC: One of the most inspiring architectural moments BOTTOM: Process design of Sydney Tower

for me is when I visited the Chapel of Ronchamp by the great Modernist architect Le Corbusier. The way he used light to sculpt the space has created a genuinely moving spiritual experience. I hope to achieve the same transcendence with my work someday. EC3 is dedicated in our role to enriching people’s lives by making architecture as “social sculpture” – forging strong communities that reflect our shared values both instinctively and culturally. Are we ready to create new worlds in outer space, or are we committed to making more robust built environments that are deeply rooted in our planet? EC3’s universal mission is to venture into the next unknown, waiting to turn the next page out of their playbook. www.ec3.us/ CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGN

Uncovering nature at its finest in an open floor layout with monotone furnishings and a 10 ft wide freestanding fireplace from floor to ceiling that provides a hygge experience.

XANADU MAYNARD DESIGN + INTERIORS EXURBIA Delving deep into the technical aspects

live and touch down on how natural light inter-

of residential design, Jeffrey Maynard’s

plays with the environment and the gesture of

interior adaptations harmonize the integration

its transitive perspective throughout the year.”

between conceptual elements and custom

This immersion allows Maynard to envisage

characteristics that create a distinctive

a design that frames the conversation with

connection between the client and the prop-

a ballad of materiality, textures, light, and

erty. His compositions sonata observational

furnishings. “When looking for inspiration, it’s

dimensions of light that harness the interper-

about looking into the arts, showing a client

sonal relationship between the views of the

something they may have not seen before,

exterior and interior landscapes, making MD

and educating them on the sophistication of

+ I the storytellers of a home’s timeless elo-

modern design in otherworldly applications.

quence. Jeffery mentions, “We step into the

It’s our job to push the boundaries, tailor

ground to survey a project’s surroundings… to

to their needs, and create magnificence.”

Venü previews the firm’s current ventures…

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

BY KAMI SLOAN

“The ultimate Interior Design team member is a firm that understands architectural detail, schematics, scale, and onsite coordination, not just a textile or furniture decorator that designs rooms. Jeffrey Maynard fills the expertise needed to bring an extraordinary living experience to life.” – GLENN MERLIN JOHNSON, PRINCIPAL AT ADAPTIVE DESIGN GROUP

Miami modernism sweeps the California coastline Art is about acclimatizing the importance of space. Exotic woods with baritone grains and transparent glass invite you into a sense of levity.

In partnership with Maynard Design, the leaders of fine custom cabinetry bring the virtu of Italian-based craftsmanship to their first residential project on the Western shore. Senior Partners Andrea Subotovsky and Deborah Naierman at ItalKraft noted, “Jeffrey brought a design nuance filled with sublime details that we superbly integrated into our custom design aspects, and collaboratively we turned dreams into reality.”

Creating something that has never been done before. Taking modular-layered concepts and finishing with the right material resources that make the ambiance inviting.

The bedroom is clad with secret compartments behind caressed leather walls that lend to complete the “oeuvre” of the room.

“Our design approach was very client-driven. We took all the input from the client and created many different layouts, refining the approach into a single concept that became the genesis for its architecture. The house has bold, strong forms that have a great deal of three-dimensional interludes that play inside and out of the space, creating a juxtaposition of perpendicular details.” – CHRIS LIGHT, PRINCIPAL AT CJ LIGHT ASSOCIATES

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGN

Tom Ford meets the rat pack Defined by masculine sensibilities, Maynard’s theatrical arrangement is a suave nod to the late 60s contemporary with a twist. There’s a moody, yet well-tailored aesthetic with tonal sensibilities of metallic slates, brass, bronze, dark browns, charcoal, russets, mahogany, sepia, gold’s and blacks that glissando with the instrumentation of light to create a progression of interior fluidity. The proficiency of materials is product driven to give a sleek edge. Jeffrey adds, “We are directly in contact with some of the world’s most influential present day artisans.”

Courtesy of Fountainebleau Miami Beach, from the estate of Ben and Bernice Novack

Frank Sinatra enjoying a cocktail in The Poodle Lounge with Bernice and Ben Novack, the original owners of Fontainebleau. Design sensibility channeled by the appeal of the cigar lounge.

“The spectacular site drove the design decisions to craft an architectural timepiece. The anomaly of the poorly-respected existing site is the exquisite unobstructed ocean views that hang off the edge of a cliff straight to the ocean beacon. Our approach to the design was to mirror the value of the panoramic view by adding layers to the exterior infrastructure, giving a larger appearance to a smaller property.” – CHRIS LIGHT, PRINCIPAL AT CJ LIGHT ASSOCIATES 56

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

“Seeing how materials are breathtakingly designed into Jeffrey’s projects is the highest reward of our work.— Work that is nationwide and International. Through my experience with designers, Jeffrey Maynard is certainly one of the greatest visionaries we have ever worked with. My belief is that he will become one of the most influential designers of our time.” – DAVID SNYDER, CEO AT UNIQUE STONE IMPORTS

Samuel Heath Shower Fixtures

Par Excellence Banister

Unique Stone Imports / Marble

James Bond la femme house

In a home filled with a plethora of unique curves and details, Glenn Johnson's knowledge of light play has allowed the project's architecture to be shown in a way that very few could achieve. His adaptability and openness to collaborate with the design team and client make him an invaluable and ideal partner. -JEFFREY MAYNARD

Inspired by the 70s retro style of “The Spy Who Loved Me”

“Simply said, Jeffrey Maynard is a thrilling designer. His designs, material and furniture choices are ones of artistic genius. We are ecstatic to be a part of his process. His willingness to take bold chances with design details is a fabulous pairing with Moya Living. It was important to bring an indoor kitchen feel, with a bespoke outdoors quality.”

-MOYA O’ NEILL, CEO AT MOYA LIVING

Dedon Hanging Lounger

A duality between his and hers, glamorous and iconic statements reflect the past and reference the future. There are no limitations to Jeffrey’s imagination. Inspired by the jet-setter lifestyle in accord with the progression of teleportation, each room transports you to another place in time. Automation comes alive in retro design. maynard.design CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

STYLE: Jewelry

Design

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

The

Accidental

Jeweler B Y

PA M

B R I S T O W

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

STYLE: Jewelry

Design

once asked my friend Temple St. Clair how she’d like to die. She responded without hesitation. “Swallowed by a large predator.” Thus begins the slow but steady intoxication by one of America’s most highly coveted jewelry designers. To start with the obvious, she is strikingly attractive, Titian-haired and poised, assured yet delicate – a sort of 21st century John Singer Sargeant specimen. There is her effortless style, that of a woman who can take a man’s white shirt from the beach to the ballroom with a belt and some healthy bravado. And then there’s the name, in which artistry or fame seems pre-programmed. But the most beguiling thing about Temple is the sense that she is many things – a storyteller, an adventurer, a traveler, a dreamer - who happens to be an artist, who happens to be a jeweler. It’s as though she could have chosen any path in life with her brand of curiosity, passion and grace, and created just as marvelous a body of work.

Despite being only the third American jewelry designer to be inducted into the permanent collection of the Louvre Museum in Paris – taking her place alongside Louis Comfort Tiffany and Alexander Calder – Temple imbues her work with a spirit that goes beyond craftsmanship and composition. While her rare colored gemstones and pristine Florentine workmanship may captivate the connoisseur, it’s her intimacy with the mystical that moves the most devout Temple St. Clair collector. She has been aptly described as having an ”artist’s eye and explorer’s heart,” evidenced by a fascination with the cosmos and mythology and an obsession with nature that define her work. A glimpse into her childhood reveals a coming-of-age ripe with awe and wonder for the world that surrounded her. “I was an only child. My mother read to me a lot. It opened my mind to other worlds and 60

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

taught me to appreciate storytelling. I started to explore how things work both emotionally and scientifically.” This early support for art and science peaked a young Temple’s interest in marine biology. Initially taken in by the beautiful and colorful world of the sea, she became fixated on plankton, wanting to study it, its structure and composition. Christmases spent exploring the ocean reefs in Mexico fueled her fascination, while summers

Opposite page: Night Owl Ring” 18K Gold with Star Sapphire, Blue Sapphire & Emerald Bottom: Frog Prince Ring” 18K Gold with Mandarin Garnet, Tsavorite, & Sapphire Right: Embracing Falcon Ring” 18K Gold with Spinel & Diamond

found her in Europe immersed in the arts. On these trips, she was made to keep a journal and a sketchbook, a habit that has stayed with her throughout her life. She would take language classes before the trips to deepen her experiences abroad. Family time at home wielded its own influence. She cites her maternal grandmother, in particular, as a formative force. “She traveled a great deal when it was unusual for women to be so independent. She

My mother read to me a lot. It opened my mind to other worlds and taught me to appreciate storytelling. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

STYLE: Jewelry

Designer

did the Grand Tour and visited Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt. She studied in Paris, played shuffleboard with

“Her home always felt interesting and cool.” St. Clair remembers one tradition quite fondly. “We were always

F. Scott Fitzgerald and rode horseback through the

encouraged to write and draw. We would have these

grounds of Versailles. Her home was a three-dimen-

after-dinner sketching sessions. Even my father, who

sional scrapbook of her travels and experiences, filled

was not artistically inclined, would draw.” She speaks

with fossils, shells, textiles and other lovingly collected

of an “Aunt Archer” who held a PhD in art history, went

items. My grandmother lived in a English manor style

to Rome on a Fulbright scholarship and participated in

house (as Virginians, we have always looked towards

early Christian artifact digs in Rome.

England and our English roots) but it was never stuffy. 62

Temple St. Clair Amulets

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

As a teenager all Temple wanted was to get out of

working, a place where I could address all these different interests.” Despite the level of technical craftsmanship required to realize her designs, St. Clair was never formally trained. As she tells it, while living in Italy her mother gave her an antique coin that she wanted set into a necklace. “I crossed into the world of these goldsmiths and became really enraptured in the history of gold, the global history of jewelry, and I’ve been in it ever since.” Many designers take inspiration from history or the natural world, but what makes Temple unique is her

Roanoke, where her outsized experiences for a girl her age branded her a misfit. She decided to go away to school, finishing high school in Switzerland. “All of a sudden there I was, this preppy southern girl dropped into this international experience. I studied French during this time in Lausanne, but also became interested in Italian.” This interest led to a Masters degree in the language. A PhD, however, felt too narrow and deep for the explorer and wanderer.

Top: In Studio Mood Board Right: Temple, early marine explorer in Cozumel, Mexico

Jewelry, she would soon find, would become her vehicle for exploring the many different subjects that captivated her. “I didn’t choose jewelry design or manufacturing; it developed more as of a way of living than a way of

Bottom: Granny pictured on camel at far left visiting the pyramids in the 1920’s Left: Rock Crystal Amulets

We were always encouraged to write and draw. We would have these after-dinner sketching sessions. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

STYLE: Jewelry

Design

Falconi

Top right: “Tolomeo Pendant” 18K Gold in multi-colored sapphire on display at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre, Paris

Compagni di Artemis

fascination with our place in it. She has often spoken of herself as a jewelry anthropologist with a mission to bring profound beauty, quality, meaning and connectivity to the world:

“Historically our jewelry is a vehicle for research, exploration and discovery. There is a narrative that flows through all the jewels and collections from an exploration of the cosmos and all its mythology in the Celestial Collection to a deep love of the natural world, both land and water, in the Tree of Life Collection. From the fine jewelry that is found on our site and in stores to the high jewelry and limited-edition jewels crowned by rare color gems, to the haute couture work as in the Golden Menagerie, our collectors connect to a sense of the universal stories that connect us all cross-culturally.” As the business and artist have matured, so has the brand’s ethos and sense of responsibility. “Temple St. Clair draws infinite inspiration from the natural world, and we believe it is our duty to help protect the planet in every way that we can… the jewels now represent so much more regarding philanthropy and impact management,” she shares. 64

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With her husband and business partner Paul, St. Clair is deepening her engagement with community, conservation and the arts. In just the last year the brand has supported and brought attention to an East Village food bank; a local New York City organization supporting

Top and left: Temple’s watercolors

LGBTQ youth; two groups based in Kenya that support

Bottom: “Flying Fish Bracelet” 18K Gold with Blue Sapphire, Paraiba Tourmaline, Tsavorite & Blue Moonstone

of the local Maasai community; and to the dance com-

Opposite page: “Landing Falcon Ring” 18K Gold with Spinel & Diamond

wildlife and wildlands conservation through employment munity in New York City including New York City Ballet, NY Live Arts and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Recently certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council, the company has put into place a fully audited system to ensure an ethical supply chain with regard to human rights and environmental issues. A study of Temple also reveals something deeper, a life we all quietly seek - despite our chosen path, to have our work be a vehicle for who we truly are. “I am still learning to be a jewelry designer, but I am a storyteller.” ☐

“Historically our jewelry is a vehicle for research, exploration and discovery…"

FEATURE

CANYON Carolers at Woody’s Annual Xmas Eve Hot Cocoa Stand. (L to R back row): Rachel Goodrich, Tanya Hayden, Jack Black, Brittany Hamilton, Molly Tuttle front row: Justine Bennett, Jamie Drake, Steve Taylor

Trevor Tuttle & Zach Braff

Selfie (clockwise from bottom left): Florence Pugh, Zach Braff, Nick Cordero, Molly Tuttle, Trevor Tuttle, Amanda Kloots, Anna Kloots

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

FEATURE

An Iconic Neighborhood Keeps Its Spirit Alive BY ROBIN H. PHILLIPS

N LOVE Laurel Canyon neighbors attending Woody’s Annual Xmas Eve Hot Cocoa Stand

Nick Cordero, Amanda Kloots & Elvis Cordero

standing in truck: Ellen Murphy (aka: lenii), Ryan O’Shaughnessy, Jono Hart. sitting in truck: Bill Maybury with Molly Tuttle

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

FEATURE

hroughout the pandemic, and especially during the stay-at-home orders, Americans found creative ways to support one another. In New York City people went outside every evening and banged pots and pans together in honor of the essential work-

ers. Italians danced on their balconies, and

touristy excitement of Hollywood and Sunset

and Young, The Mamas and the Papas, Joni

throughout American neighborhoods, signs

Boulevards, lies this cozy enclave high in the

Mitchell, The Doors, and The Monkees to

placed on lawns proclaimed, “We are going to

hills. To understand it best today, it helps to

name a few. Artists, musicians, film and music

be okay,” and “We are in this together.”

glance back.

industry talent, they were (and still are) drawn

One community in Los Angeles came

Growing up in the 70s, I remember hear-

to Laurel Canyon, and their creative energies

together in a way that paid special homage

ing the catchy sounds streaming through

feed off each other. Several books and films

to the history of its iconic neighborhood—

our station wagon’s speakers. I didn;t know

document the overflowing talent there.

Laurel Canyon. Smack dab in the middle

it then but these were the bands of Laurel

Today, as you wind your way up Laurel

of Los Angeles, just a quick jaunt from the

Canyon—The Byrds, Crosby Stills, Nash,

Canyon Boulevard, the first thing you spot is

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

husband’s battle and in doing so, developed

Photo by Jeff Fornay @jeffforney

over half a million followers who clearly felt a kinship as they, too, were trying to comprehend this awful new world. Kloots, a talented performer, former Rockette, and successful fitness instructor, had followed her husband Nick to Laurel Canyon so he could embark on a singing career—off the Broadway stage. Sadly it never happened, and Covid claimed Jasper Von Studnitz, Woody Tuttle, Jonas Von Studnitz, Tori Horowitz, Freddy Von Studnitz

is the artist responsible for the iconic art and designs painted and seen all around the store and Canyon. Molly Tuttle and her 'Rock the Playground' poster

Nick in the summer of 2020. During this time, Kloots’s Instagram showed videos of people singing to her, often from a truck in front of her home. While I watched many of these touching musical tributes, I couldn’t help but wonder who were

Love Thy Neighbor

these people supporting Kloots? In her book

Amanda Kloots – became an almost overnight

losing Nick and she highlights, among others,

One relatively new Laurel Canyon resident – Instagram celebrity during the early days of the pandemic for a heartbreaking reason. Her husband, actor, singer and Tony Award nominee Nick Cordero was stricken with Covid-19. In social media, Kloots began to chronicle her

– Live Your Life – written with her sister Anna, Amanda shares much about her experience Molly and Trevor, Jono, and Tori.

The Makers of Magic

Every community has a few residents who are actually the ones making the magic happen.

In the back of truck en route to serenade: Ellen Murphy (aka: lenii), Finneas, Jono Hart

the Laurel Canyon Country Store. Here since 1929, it is perhaps a place more musicians and artists have walked through than any other corner market. It’s around the bend from Rothdell Trail AKA Love Street – so named for the song its famous resident Jim Morrison penned about his neighborhood. Every day for the past 25 years, the “ma and pa” of the Canyon—Lilly and Spike—are out on the patio operating Lilly’s coffee cart. Spike CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

FEATURE

House Concert: Andy Cabic (Vetiver) and Eric D. Johnson (Fruit Bats) perform in the Tuttle’s living room

They are the planners and the doers. I had

Like most Canyon residents, Tori’s back-

of Amanda’s aforementioned angels—Molly

story has some jaw-dropping elements. “My

Tuttle. “There are so many folks here doing

former LA roommate, who managed bands

wonderful things,” Tuttle says humbly. “And I

like The Smashing Pumpkins and the Cocteau

think we are creating a little joy for the Upper

Twins, told me Rick Rubin was looking for an

Lookout Mountain area.” A native northern

assistant and I should meet with him about

Californian, Molly came to Laurel Canyon ten

the job,” she says. Much to her surprise, she

years ago with her son Woody and husband

got it, rented a “funky little house on Walnut

every chance I got!” says Molly. In fact, it was

Trevor who is in film and television directorial

Drive in the Kirkwood bowl,” and never left. “I

Molly that Cordero beckoned to weigh in on

work and story design. Molly is a talented

have lived in the same three block radius for

the bungalow he found on Love Street. Molly

artist and graphic designer, and while that

25 years,” she says. Today, as a successful

says she locked eyes with Cordero that day

is her day job, she has a lifelong passion for

real estate agent with Compass, operating

and told him, “this is your new home!” She and

music. In college at Chico State, she was the

Canyonhaus, a popular Instagram page, she is

the neighbors had made them a part of their

“original number one fan” of the rock band

the go-to agent for properties in the Canyon.

Canyon family.

The Mother Hips, and she used her talents

She’s also one of Molly’s biggest fans. “Molly

That family, specifically the Tuttles, has

to help promote them and celebrate them

is one of my all-time favorite people and may

special traditions. “They are so important

every chance she could. “Finding the sounds

have lived here in another life,” she tells me.

to me, and as soon as we moved in, Trevor

and artists around us and sharing them with

“Molly seems to belong here in so many

and I decided to start our own traditions. We

others has been a part of my life for as long

ways. Her style, her voice (metaphorically

created “Woody’s Cocoa Stand,” which, over

as I can remember,” says Molly.

Jamie Drake

and literally - she can sing!), her creativity, her

the years, has become a much anticipated

With her son a new student at the Canyon’s

spirit. The way she can bring people together.

Christmas Eve event, complete with neigh-

Wonderland Elementary—Molly met the “PTA

I don’t know what the Canyon would be for

borhood kids as carolers.” What started as

moms,” one of whom was Tori Horowitz. The

me without her. She’s my Canyon soul sister.”

a handful of people grew in size each year.

two women hit it off and Tori invited Molly to join them in planning a benefit concert called “Rock the Playground.” The event’s goal was

reminisce forever,” she explains.

the privilege of spending the day with one

The Canyon Calls

Molly started sprinkling her “magic canyon

Fellow school parent, actor Jack Black, stopped by the last one. “You never know who you might see in the crowd,” Molly says

to raise funds to keep the playground open on

dust” on Nick Cordero while he and Amanda

weekends for the Canyon kids. Molly jumped

were still living in New York but were visiting

Another common occurrence at the Tuttles

right in to help and created a special graphic

Cordero’s buddy Zach Braff, who also hap-

is a well-planned living room concert. “What

poster for the event—something she’d done

pens to be friends and neighbors with the

is better than having live music in your own

since her college days. For Molly, these

Tuttles—Braff and Trevor worked together on

home?” asks Molly. I remind her most of us

posters are deeply meaningful. “First there is

Oz the Great and Powerful. The little Upper

would have no idea. “Well you should!” she

the anticipation of the event, then there’s the

Lookout Mountain crew was soon hanging

says with a laugh. I can’t help but agree,

event itself, and then when it is over, we have

out. “I met Nick and knew immediately he

and note how the 60s Canyon spirit lives

this amazing artistic object that allows us to

had to move here, and I reminded him of that

on through them. “People are motivated to

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with a wide grin.

do things in Laurel Canyon and any reason to create an event or an experience, people tend to show up,” explains Trevor.

Memories with Music & Art

“Knowing how alone and awful Amanda was feeling, how helpless we all felt, I got the idea to send her a singing telegram,” explains Molly. Molly’s dear friend, longtime Canyon resident Jono Hart, was also trying to think of ways to connect his neighbors during lockdown, and bring a little joy into Kloots’s sad situation. “Molly is the great enabler,” says Hart wryly. “I was thinking basically the

Hot Cocoa House Band: Theo Taplitz, Zoe Calamar, Gary Calamar, Dan Rothchild

same thing she was,”! In a few hours, the Tuttle’s truck was rolling toward Amanda with a singing group perched in the back. They surprised her, singing You’ve Got a Friend, written by former Canyon resident Carole King. It was captured on video, streamed, and both Carole King and James Taylor shared it. “It’s a bit more “minstrelly” than anything. One person has an idea and the players fall into form. Stone soup where everyone just shows up with the right puzzle piece,” says Trevor. The neighbors also organized another performance to celebrate the publishing of Kloots’s Live Your Life, with special guest Finneas, singer/songwriter/producer and brother of Billie Eilish, who performed from the Tuttle truck What They’ll Say About Us, the song he wrote for Nick and Amanda. “We try to open our homes as much as our

Sky Nicolas and Jeff Forney waiting in line as Woody serves hot cocoa

hearts,” says Hart. Another important friend in this Canyon group is Gary Calamar. A California native, he managed bands and then became a DJ at the influential station KCRW. Today he is a music supervisor for TV programs such as Six Feet Under, True Blood, Dexter, and House. “I met Nick and Amanda and baby

One such artist who has performed in the Tuttle living room is LA folk singer/songwriter Jamie Drake. Drake is an accomplished musical talent whose 2019 album has been streamed more than 14 million times on Spotify. “The Tuttles are a walking vortex of magical manifestation,” explains Drake. “Molly invited me to join in on a concert in

Elvis first at Woody’s Cocoa party and then

her home, opening for “Expandards,” a musi-

at the Tuttle’s Thanksgiving. Nick was a very

cal project of Mikael Jorgensen of Wilco, and

cool and talented guy. I also have a music

Isaac Koren,” Drake shares. “The beauty and

licensing company called Laurel Canon and

the mystery of the Canyon calls to me too.

we started working with Nick’s music shortly

My heroes once walked those streets with

before he got sick,” explains Calamar. “I was

their guitars and I long to join them.”

able to place his beautiful song “Live Your

The Canyon embrace is keeping Kloots

Life” in an HBO movie.” Calamar also points

there as well. “After living in New York City

out something I already know -- that Molly

apartment buildings for 19 years, I never

is an impressive artist. “We have worked on

knew what a neighborhood community

several musical projects together and she

looked like. In New York sometimes you

always knocks it out of the park with her art,”

never see or know your neighbors,” she

says Calamar.

explains. “Laurel Canyon is a special, magi-

Hearing about their soirées, I can’t help

cal place. The magic comes from a history of

but think of Gertrude Stein, and Calamar

these creative people and now the souls that

sees the same parallel but another one as

are keeping it alive. Those souls are Molly,

well. “I always tell Molly that she reminds

Trevor, Tori, and Jono,” says Kloots.

me of Mama Cass as she is always bringing

As our time together winds to a close,

people together,” he says. “And Graham

Molly points out Joni Mitchell’s house and

Nash described Cass as, “The Gertrude

I can’t help but think of her lyrics in Ladies

Stein of Laurel Canyon” because her house

of the Canyon, “Pouring music down the

seemingly recreated Stein’s salon at 27 rue

canyon, Coloring the sunshine hours, They

de Fleurus in Paris in the 1920s. And that’s

are the ladies of the canyon.” And so, the

how I feel about Molly.”

Canyon spirit endures. ☐ CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

FATVillage Presents:

A show of works by Karen Graffeo with Esteban Jimenez Guerra “Tatico Cuban.” NARRATIVE EDITED BY KAMI SLOAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN EZRA

“The alchemy of art functions to transform

In the early 1900s, erotic cards came to

In the mid-1920s, there was a collector’s

pain into beauty. What stirs my thoughts

Havana from France, which were very

boom of cards showing half-naked women

about these images are the socio-cultural

popular in the Old Continent. Factories

in provocative poses. Men carried cigarette

stigmas placed upon the feminine stan-

like Gener, El Cuño, Aguilitas, Nacionales,

packs in their pockets, and in them, a small

dards of beauty. The exhibition is meant

Eva, and Trinidad y Hno introduced these

hidden treasure could be enjoyed and shared

to challenge pervasive misconceptions

images on cigarette packs with later French

with friends at any time. We can only begin

and to see their contexts in a new light.”

reproductions in European style by Cuban

to wonder if a jealous wife who found these

—Karen Graffeo

photographers.

images entertained a boudoir photography

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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Society Photographer.” The photographs changed from taboo to a social status symbol. Given the naivety of the subjects with their somewhat forced poses in decorated studios by the artists who sought out to garner the attention of the avid art collector and smoker, the pictures today induce a smile. Graffeo goes on to say, “Each society has their own cultural projections of femininity referred to as Anima and Animus in Jungian’s theory of the collective unconscious. It intrigues me that Jung referenced Anima as an effeminate archetype of masculinity. In Latin-American and Cuban cultures, there is a predominant “machismo” that alludes to the reverence of romanticized gender roles that have been glorified throughout history.” In Afro-Cuban traditions, deities are petitioned with hieroglyphic prayer markings called ajitenas. Graffeo’s tribute to the divine feminine is Yemaya, Santeria’s Goddess of the Ocean, petitions to allow love, sensuality, and safe passage across dangerous waters. The approach of the installation is to activate the undertones of the narrative through the lens of deep-set eyes in an immersive environment where the viewer becomes a co-participant of the contemplative and spiritual rather than an investigative spectator. The 104” voile printed screens atelier as layered 3-D projections that activate when the partaker passes behind them. The large windows of the gallery act as a billboard to the street, and the expressionistic view through them mirrors the pedestrian traffic. “We set the stage for new forms to find ambiguity through subtle views of dimensional observation. I knew that within the FATVillage community that the symbolism would be understood, perhaps a comfort, and reminder session to obtain a picture of her delights to tantalize her husband and detract him from looking at other women. Renowned high society Cuban photographers such as Joaquin Blez and Segovia contributed to these artistic creations. Their involvement notably raised the quality of the images, which were even printed in larger formats for albums of special collections. Although the country was heavily populated with people of color during this period of prejudice, there are no Afro-descendant models in the images. The truth is that Blez, who took photos of nude French prostitutes and later of Cuban women, began to photograph bourgeois ladies who posed in private sessions at the “Estudio Blez,” dubbed the “High 74

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

TOP: “Ashe omi Yemaya” (the spiritual crown of two waters, a prayer to Yemaya), Mixed media painted photograph RIGHT: Photographs on Voile

that its contemporary climate is a form of relevance to current times. “Drawing for me is a form of prayer that creates a vernacular to the soul and fits within my practice both as a seeker of art and life.” The markings and framing also serve to reference the past and celebrate the beauty of blackness and brownness in present day. As a plea for humanity, I have drawn ajitenas on the pieces to release them from the battles of mankind in order to cross the shores of turbulent waters to safely lead to a sea of reconciliation”, mentions Karen. “At FATVillage, we strive to exhibit challenging work that’s outside of the realm of commercial galleries to allow for a critical dialogue between the arts and the public that structures accessibility to the community at large. This is the first time that a showing of these historic cigarette ladies has ever been exhibited”, reveals Doug McCraw, Founder at FATVillage Arts District. The multicultural diversity of Fort Lauderdale and Miami brings these varied gestalts to the viewing of this project, readdressing Anima to speak via art. ☐ With appreciation for the research and archives provided by Cuban journalist Julio Larramendi. For direct inquiries to Far Gallery, Tayina Deravile tayina@fatvillage.com

TOP: “Saints and Tears” Photo Installation RIGHT: “Miss Cadilac” Mixed media photograph on watercolor paper: pencil, paint, pastels and glitter LEFT: “Anima Speaks” Mixed media photograph with watercolor and acrylic

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

FEATURE

PURVIS YOUNG An Iconic African American Visionary Artist BY LUDLOW E. BAILEY 76

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IMAGES COURTESY OF FATVILLAGE

focus. The result is quintessentially Purvis. Black life in the inner city, angels, horses, Jesus, pregnant women, mass incarceration, boat people, the transatlantic slave voyage, sharks, Holy men, protesters, halos, Overtown, the ghetto, crowded streets, people in praise, and dispossessed folk. The value of this collection lies in the subconscious spiritual power that illuminates the soul of a man who was not influenced by his peers but driven by a spiritual calling to use his artistry and his angelic vision to make evident the deeply flawed underbelly of the socio-political infrastructure of contemporary American life. His signature artistic style is “original” and recognizable from any point of view in the universe. As the curator for this show, I am humbly honored and excited to have the opportunity to add to the legacy of Purvis Young. I knew Purvis for over 25 years and had the good fortune of including his work in several of my South Florida art shows. Purvis was an original American artist that lived his life according to the beat of his own drum. There was nothing conventional about him; he was never married, didn’t own

Purvis Young is a deeply grown African American soul whose prolific and legendary work continues to capture the imagination of the American public and the art world in general. Purvis Young’s contribution to American art is immeasurable. Doug McCraw, founder of Fort Lauderdale’s highly celebrated FATVillage, is considered to be a leading art advocate on the art of Purvis Young. In honor of Mr. Young’s legacy, Mr. McCraw has chosen to produce a Purvis Young show to launch the FATVillage 2021 South Florida Art Basel season. This collection of Purvis Young’s work is sufficiently diverse and represents in some ways a holistic overview of his thematic CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

FEATURE

a fancy car, and rode a bicycle. To say that he was from another time understates the extent of his colossal world presence down to his uniquely own attire. Purvis died broke. His life story, in some ways, is an American tragedy, but it’s also an inspiring story about the role of art in the pursuit of Freedom, a life of value, and the mastery of destiny. The discovery of art changed his perspective and gave him an outlet to express his soul’s mission and purpose. Whenever I was in his presence, I always felt that I was in the company of an Ethiopian High priest, a Shango man, a Freedom fighter, or a Zulu spiritual warrior. Purvis always talked to me about himself as a Zulu warrior. As a descendant of Africa, he was most definitely aware of his African roots. Drawing major inspiration from the Congo drums, he was also knowledgeable about Yoruba African spirituality. One of his closest and best confidantes, Silo Crespo, was an Afro-Cuban Santeria Priest. In all my interactions with Purvis, what inspired me the most was his unique access 78

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

to a divine fountain of resources that drove

become one of America’s leading visual

social commentary in a platform to highlight

him to tirelessly pursue his calling. Purvis

artists. In the many conversations I had with

the challenges of Afro-American urban life

Young was an artist on a mission that didn’t

him, I realized that he wasn’t interested in

and the deep suffrages of racial injustices

want to die without releasing the music that

the monetary gain of capitalism or the status

and inequalities endured by people of color

was inside of him.

of power. At the end of the day, Purvis was

in the United States with the end goal of reducing plight in the developing world. ☐

On the highest spiritual level, Purvis

a civil rights activist, urban historian, and a

Young was a rare and beautiful soul who

contemporary African American Griot who

emerged from a troubled childhood to

understood the power of art as a tool for

Purvis Young: An iconic African American Visionary will open November 18, 2021, and will be available for general public viewing through January 30, 2022, at FATVillage in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. For direct inquiries to Far Gallery, Tayina Deravile tayina@fatvillage.com

Ludlow E. Bailey is a Miami-based Cultural Curator. Mr. Bailey is hugely passionate about contemporary global African Diaspora art & culture. He is the Managing Director of CADA (Contemporary African Diaspora Art), a multi-media platform designed to present and promote the visual art culture of the African Diaspora. www.cada.us instagram@cadaonline and @ludlowebailey.

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

FEATURE

BY LISA MIKULSKI

This is a promise, I think concrete and plaster heart with engraved lockets and watches 24 x 21 x 9 in 61 x 53.3 x 22.9 cm, 2020

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

When first experiencing Jessica Lichtenstein’s art, I was mesmerized. I had many questions. But as I studied the work, mostly, for a time, I just wanted to be with it, to explore it with my eyes and let

A Burst of Fragrance from the Black Branches wood, acrylic, epoxy and mother of pearl 80 x 60 x 3 in | 203.2 x 152.4 x 7.6 cm, 2020

it feed my soul. In searching for Lichtenstein’s work online, one will find an oft-used quote: “Using the female body as a mechanism to explore deeper themes of power, female representation, fetishism, and objectification, usually in an ironic and cheerful way her work consciously plays with the boundaries of power, commercialization, consumerism, fantasy and propriety, provoking tensions that challenge the viewer to confront his or her own gaze.” What does this mean? Talking with Lichtenstein via phone as she waited for her flight back home to New York City, she explained. It began at the start of her career with a fascination with mass-produced, hyper-sexualized, Japanese anime figurines. Removing the dolls from their boxes, Lichtenstein manipulated them to present them in a new light, allowing her to provide alternative meanings. Through Lichtenstein’s vignettes, the girls are displayed for “public inspection and the viewer can voyeuristically watch these girls examine and perfect both themselves and their lives, exposing the extremism of a consumer culture dominated by western ideals of beauty and lifestyle.”

Morning c-print acrylic / Edition 5 + 2AP47.5 x 47.5 x 2 in 120.5 x 120.5 x 5 cm, 2016

The girls return in Lichtenseries, Word

these appropriated heroines in scenes that

Sculptures. Here she examines

are reminiscent of Renoir’s, Cezanne’s, or

the pornographic world of Japa-

Picasso’s Nude Bathers –– scenes that

nese-inspired comic books. Her

harken back to a time of ‘female as muse.’

website tells us that in “creating

Layering these images behind a thick buffer

imagined fantastical landscapes,

of acrylic, the pieces take a critical distance

infused with a highly sexualized

from their own content and in fact, beg the

environment, Lichtenstein places

viewer to do the same.”

stein’s

Leaving behind the world of anime figurines and word sculptures, the artist’s next BAG LADY II, Installation/Sculpture (pvc and resin figurine with mixed media on acrylic in plexiglass case) 11.5 x 11.5 x 7.25 in 29 x 29 x 18.5 cm

step in her evolution turned to landscape visions. Here we see the artist’s maturity and sophistication coming to fruition. From afar, the viewer sights a silhouetted tree against a bright background of metal leaf or colorful CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

STYLE: Accessories

“AFTER THE STORM” Wallpaper Installation, 2021 82

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FEATURE

Detail from “After the Storm,” previous spread

Golden Daze wood, epoxy, gold leaf & brass leaf 120 x 60 x 3 in 304.8 x 152.4 x 7.6 cm

acrylic settings. Purples,

Global events affect people in different

bright pinks, and Nordic

ways -- some shut down, others produce pro-

blues draw us in until

lific bodies of work. Lichtenstein falls in the

finally, up-close, we are

latter camp. Her most recent series, A Perfect

presented with a forest

Storm, is an amalgam of digital, sculptural, and

of beings. Thousands

installation work, taking a year and a half to

of Lichtenstein’s girls’

complete. The series also includes something

make up the leaves,

new for the artist and her collectors -- that of

branches, and flowers of

a non-figurative sculptural medium.

the piece. They drip from

Until this point, there had always been

the blossoms of willowy

figures populating the pieces. But Lichten-

Japanese cherry trees. Like nymphs or fairies, the girls play and explore jumping from the

stein wanted to give her girls a voice. In a

branches to the waterlilies below. Each girl is an individual, yet undeniably part of the whole.

departure from figurative work, she created

They are beautiful, strong, and celebratory as they emerge from the shadows into the light.

hearts. A Perfect Storm presents a series

Then came 2020. As the world changed, so too did Lichtenstein’s focus. 84

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

of concrete hearts bursting with voices in

What might have been wood, epoxy, aluminum leaf and mother of pearl 80 x 60 x 3 in | 203.2 x 152.4 x 7.6 cm, 2020

and the playfulness of the pieces. As a mother, a wife, and a businesswoman I love all the aspects Jessica addresses during her creative process. Her message is to be bold, be brave, be strong, be soft, be brilliant and be a woman - ah, to be a feminist.” Jessica Lichtenstein has put together a beautiful body of work. The amount of time, vision, and dedication that has gone into A Perfect Storm and her subsequent works have reignited this writer’s love of art and provides a glimpse of hope for our future. ☐ See more of Jessica Lichtenstein’s work at the following venues: Website: jessicalichtenstein.com Instagram: @jesslicht C. Parker Gallery in Greenwich Connecticut: cparkergallery.com | @cparkergallery Winston Wächter Fine Art, New York: newyork.winstonwachter.com the form of engraved lockets. The words and phrases engraved upon the lockets are the ruminations of a world in the throes of a global catastrophe. They contain snippets from newspapers, Instagram, poetry, pornography, comic books, and diaries. They represent not only fears and insecurities, but the hopes and dreams that swirled through our collective mind during a tumultuous year. The artist is well known for her lush forested installation work and A Perfect Storm doesn’t disappoint. Created digitally using millions of photoshop layers, each element of Lichtenstein’s forest is created and composed. The final product is printed out on wallpaper. A scattering of cut out paper girls litter the gallery floor like fallen leaves. You are invited to enter Lichtenstein’s world. The two-dimensional pieces in A Perfect Storm shimmer with mother-of-pearl and depict our heroines in silhouette being blown about by stormy winds. They cling to branches as the inlaid mother-of-pearl, engraved with quotes and fleeting thoughts, swirl about the composition. Tiffany Benincasa of C. Parker Gallery says: “Jessica’s works resonate with a wide range of collectors. When they first see her pieces, I watch how viewers are captured by the elegance and sophisticated presentation of her works. Then they are drawn in for further study and captivated by the details. Some collectors love the strength and powerful messaging, while others delight in the whimsical and ironic underlying details. While art is in the eye of the beholder, it is especially true with Jessica’s works where there exists a balance between the seriousness and gravitas of her creations

This is a promise, I think Detail from opening page

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FEATURE

Painting title: "Abstract Movement Number 1"; Chair: Siriano Interiors; Photo by Sara Kerens

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

DESIGNING THE WORLD

WRITTEN BY CINDY CLARKE CREATIVE DIRECTION BY LIZ VAP FERALCAT PRODUCTIONS

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COVER STORY

resh from back-to-back red carpet wins at the 2021 Primetime Emmy Awards, the prestigious Met Gala and New York’s highly anticipated Fashion Week, it’s hard to imagine that Christian Siriano found the time to catch his breath, let alone speak to us before catching a plane bound for his solo exhibition at SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) in Savannah. But as is evidenced by everything he undertakes, he did it with a genuine graciousness and generosity that speak volumes about the world as he sees it. Christian Siriano is uniquely blessed with a vision that transcends color, size, race and gender to create a community that embraces it all. That he hails from Maryland, nicknamed “America in Miniature” for its scenic and cultural diversity and distinctly progressive views, hints at his inclusive nature. He spent his childhood in the idyllic boating enclave of Annapolis, a buttoned-up bastion of rich maritime traditions that define the historic waterfront and its illustrious Naval Academy. “We literally lived on the water. We were always on boats and at the marinas and docks and we ate crab just about every weekend,

wonder still pirouetting in his voice. “I was a very curious kid, interested in everything, finding the beautiful and the romantic everywhere.” Being around her and seeing all the ballets she was in inspired him endlessly. Did he know then what he wanted to be when he grew up, that his interest in those diaphanous ballet costumes would prove to be the catalyst for a career that would not only skyrocket him to fame and fortune in fashion, but that would dress everything he touched in a glamorous glow?

that was the thing.” But it was his sister’s ballet performances, visually transformative, that influenced his sensibilities the most. “She would be in dazzling ballet costumes with her hair and make-up all done up and then she and the other dancers would turn into these amazing creatures. It was mesmerizing to watch,” he remembers, the

“I was more interested in being an artist. I really didn’t know what fashion was necessarily or what that kind of career would even look like back then because I was a bit naïve about it all. I did know what painters and sculptors did and I wanted to do that too. That’s why I went to art school in Baltimore.” I was in the moment with him, connecting with him from a tugboat that was harbored in Baltimore, the city skyline glittering in the back-

ground with a necklace of celestial lights, hoping to channel his brand of creativity and dreaminess for our conversation. He attended Baltimore’s edgy high school for the arts, one of the nation’s finest, where all the school’s a stage and its students rightfully earn starring roles for their future. He studied fine arts at first, taking drawing and painting classes every day. But as he became interested in sculpture and the multifaceted three dimensional aspects of art, his genius for dressing the world in happiness came to light. As he describes it, he began to build clothes instead of building sculptures. He went on to study fashion design at the industry-focused American InterContinental University in the multicultural city of London, a tireless innovator of art and culture full of ideas and imagination.

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He apprenticed with rebellious English designer Dame Vivienne Westwood, a maverick of risqué punk, art and sustainability inspired collections, and later joined four-time winner of the British Fashion Christian Siriano S/S 2022 NYFW Fashion Show / September 2021 Photo by Kevin Tachman

Council’s British Designer of Year Award, Alexander McQueen, his alltime favorite designer. Relocating to New York, his passion for fashion ran away on the runways, starting with his industry-rocking win on Project Runway and the debut of his first couture collection in 2008. He had the critics and celebrities clamoring for his dresses after that, enchanting them with old world glamour in his ballerina-inspired gowns. “I still love ballet and I think my collections have a ballerina-like element to them. I believe they always will because that’s how I learned about fashion,” he told me. A romantic at heart, Christian is joy incarnate. I tell him so as I describe the Christian Siriano I imagine after getting to know him via the public eye. When I look at Christian’s work, there is an ethereal softness to it. Beautifully gentle renditions of life come alive in his dream dresses, and his cotton tail furniture designs. The women who wear his clothes exude confidence, and are fearlessly feminine without

Christian Siriano Collection 37 Fashion Show in Westport, CT / September 2020 Photo by Sara Kerens

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apology or attitude, radiating beauty inside and out. They feel pretty

world. During fashion’s biggest night out at the incomparable Met Gala,

and it shows.

critics wrote that he “broke a Met Gala record with three separate pieces going on display at the Costume Institute’s new exhibit, “In

Through Christian’s eyes, life is beautiful. He finds people of all shapes and sizes flawless, and makes fashions that flatter each and

America: A Lexicon,” along with his poetic ode to America in a fairy-tale gown worn by Lili Reinhart.

every one. And while the world applauds his indefatigable desire to

His inspiration came right from his heart, taking his floral cue from

dress models other’s won’t, he finds it difficult to understand why they

Lili’s name. “My idea was to create a meaningful montage to America by

don’t.

celebrating all the flowers in each of the 50 states in a gossamer dress

“People are people,” he explains, famously breaking the fashion

worn by a beautiful girl named Lili. It just all went together perfectly.”

model in his mission to design dresses every woman can wear. “When

The joy of looking continued during the Emmy Awards a few nights

a person feels really great about what they wear, that’s more rewarding

later. He had four award-worthy outfits under the spotlight there, each

than anything.”

an eye-candy study in elegance and glamour.

The bold and colorful dresses he debuted this fall at New York’s

Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham looked amazing in a one-shoul-

highly anticipated Fashion Week, where the best-dressed strut design-

dered confection described by Christian as old Hollywood glamour.

ers’ dreams, reflected his desire to give women something to smile

“She’s so fabulous and I’m so proud of her. She won Best Supporting

about when they stepped out into a brave new post-COVID-lockdown

Actress for her first time. It was really wonderful.”

Christian Siriano Collection 37 Fashion Show in Westport, CT / September 2020; Photo by Sara Kerens

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Billy Porter at the 91st Academy Awards in Los Angeles / February 2019; Courtesy of Christian Siriano

Courtesy of Christian Siriano / April 2020

He gushed over Nicole Byer, who was dressed in a sheer, off the shoulder delicately ruffled purple gown, disarming me with his honest adoration. “I love her. She is really funny and crazy on her show, Nailed It. She’s such a bright personality but I think she still wanted to be beautiful and elegant.”

I think my proudest moments really honestly come from the fact that I’m still doing what I love to do and people seem to love what I do too. Every day I get to wake up and I get to create what I want. I like being my own boss. It feels really good.

Christian “loves what we did for

fact that I’m still doing what I love to do and people seem to love what I do too. Every day I get to wake up and I get to create what I want. I like being my own boss. It feels really good. I get to dress First Ladies and some of the biggest stars in the world. I also get to dress people like my mom and I love that it’s just all these different types of people. It’s

Jennifer Coolidge. She’s a good friend. She looked like she was old

men and women and non-binary and they’re all of the things I like to

Hollywood, and very much the glamorous star that she is.” He shared

do and they all make me feel proud.”

that she chose a dress they brought in as an “extra,” noting that when a

For the Emmys, he designed a custom ensemble in support of the

dress works perfectly in the moment, it is an awesome feeling for him.

non-binary for Hacks actor Carl Clemons-Hopkins, nominated in the

Does he prefer dressing a star in a preconceived custom creation just

Best Supporting Actor category. It evoked memories of his Oscar win-

for them or do the clothes he has already designed speak to them first?

ning moment with Billy Porter’s tuxedo gown, still talked about today

“It’s a mix,” he explained, adding that Jennifer Coolidge’s elegant

as a defining moment for a star “to play between the masculine and

off-the-rack choice was actually one of his best moments. “I’ve had the

the feminine.” No judgement, all joy.

pleasure of dressing so many amazing people, but I get excited about

Over the years, he’s dressed the best for any number of high-profile

everyone. I think my proudest moments really honestly come from the

functions, from the Golden Globes to the Grammys and every A-list CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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Christian Siriano S/S 2022 NYFW Fashion Show featuring Aquaria, Leah McSweeney, Lil’ Kim, Alicia Silverstone, Kristin Chenoweth, Busy Philipps, and Christine Quinn / September 2021; Photo by Kevin Tachman

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I’m very ambitious and hardworking and I like to be an innovator. I like to try new things and push myself. I definitely cannot be bored. I always have a project to work on and thrive on stimulation.

Lili Reinhart sketch for Met Gala 2021 / September 2021; Courtesy of Christian Siriano

basks in the glow of someone else’s spotlight. Whether it is the celebrities he dresses, the first responders who don his masks or the women who wear his fragrances, he is genuinely happy to make them feel happy. President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden at the Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin / August 2020; Courtesy of Christian Siriano

Even when the world was shut down in a fearful pause from everyday life, Christian found a way to bring joy to those who faced the unfathomable on the front lines of a deadly disease. He turned his

gala in between, turning heads and bidding smiles from his diverse,

fashion atelier into a veritable mask brigade, charitably churning out

always rapt audiences. They include Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey,

some 2,000 masks a day to hand out to those who selflessly gave a

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Lizzo, Whoopi Goldberg, Jennifer Lopez

hand up to people who needed it most. The COVID quarantine also

and many more too numerous to mention here, each a vision in a

gave rise to another of Christian’s expressive artistic endeavors, interior

fabulous gown that played to their desire to be demure or daring or

design, including custom furniture – think simple seating, modernistic

dreamy, celebrating self-expression for every body at every age.

yet whimsical, with a nod to his fashion sensibilities – and paintings

Is there anyone he would like to dress that he hasn’t had

that dress up homes with original Siriano style.

the opportunity to do so yet? He hesitated for a brief moment before mentioning such classic stars as Kate Winslet and Cate Blanchett. “I would be honored to design for them.” That humility is also signature Siriano. Without exception, Christian CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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Having courage is my new | motto in life. It’s something within yourself that keeps you motivated by your passion. I love every project that I’m working on. I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t love it. That’s very important. I love fashion just as much as I love interiors and art and I love them all in a very similar way. Taking risks is not new for someone as innovative as Christian. In addition to launching his career-defining gowns at age 26, he mixed it up with fragrances, creating a line of scented silhouettes that soothed and seduced the senses with inspired memories of summertime, his sister, his mom. “I’m very ambitious and hardworking and I like to be an innovator. I like to try new things and push myself. I definitely cannot be

Christian Siriano: Dresses to Dream About: Deluxe Edition by Rizzoli Photo by Shane LaVancher

Janelle Monáe look for Met Gala 2019 / May 2019; Photo by Shane LaVancher

bored. I always have a project to work on and thrive on stimulation,” he explained, adding that he likes to be involved in anything that’s happening. “I definitely think I’m a risk taker, because everything I do is kind of a risk. I don’t ever stop to think about whether it is going to be successful or not. If it works, how great is that. If it doesn’t, okay, we move on and try something else. That’s really how I approach everything in my life.” Where does he find the courage to be himself and follow his passion? “Having courage is my new motto of life. It’s something within yourself that keeps you motivated by your passion. I love every project that 94

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I’m working on. I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t love it. That’s very important. I love fashion just as much as I love interiors and art and I love them all in a very similar way. Obviously, I built a much bigger business in the fashion world, but that’s just because that’s the road I took. I think if I dedicated that much time to my art business or interior business I think it could be just as successful. I would just have to give it more time.” Forced to take a time off from the public eye during 2020 and retreating to his newly purchased Connecticut home, Christian turned his sights inward, establishing a decorating style that he was happy living with. Finding serenity and a full refresh in seclusion were motivating factors in Christian’s desire to open the door to a new inspired incarnation of his talents. “I’m still learning and developing my palette, but I’m definitely a big lover of vintage and mid-century pieces. I prefer clean, uncluttered Christian Siriano Collection 37 Fashion Show in Westport, CT / September 2020; Photo by Dan Lecca

Christian Siriano sketches; Photo by Sara Kerens

looks and I love earth tones and wood. Very natural elements are really inspiring to me,” he said, “That is probably more my world, which is very different than what I do with my clothes.” His paintings are also very different than his fashions, going from the bold and colorful to black and white abstract designs. “I actually was a pretty big fan of very classic still life paintings in the beginning and then when I started to manipulate them, I became more interested in abstract work. I also used to use a lot of color and painted things that were really vibrant and electric, but that was probably because I wasn’t doing anything else. Now that I work with bold colors all the time in my clothes, I like my art to be a bit more minimal and abstract.” Today his painted art is all about feelings, many of which represent CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

COVER STORY

introspective works that captured his mood during the pandemic. “Some of the paintings I did during the pandemic were dark and quite moody, reflecting how I felt during that time. Others were a bit more fashion driven, capturing back-stage images of our fashion shows. There were crazy moments that I would just remember and paint them. You can tell if I was in a chaotic mood or a really calm mood or if I was thinking about a place I wanted to be in many of my pieces. I did a few pieces based on my memories of the Amalfi Coast because I was working on my collection at the same time. So my work really all comes together in a way.” His life under the spotlight affords him little time for himself. Is painting a relaxing outlet from his busy schedule? “Yes, it’s the best. For one, living outside of the city is already helpful and relaxing, but painting takes it up a notch. I think if you’re an artist

“Fashion is so much about commerce which can be frustrating at times because you know you want to create something original but it has to still be wearable and sellable. I find that art is a nice change of pace because it literally can just hang on a wall, and not have to do the same thing clothes have to do.”

and you’re able to paint what you want, it enables you to get everything

It may not do all the same things that his fashions do, but his art

out. It’s better than a therapist because you’re really putting it all out

does make an impactful statement wherever it is placed. Venü is

there in front of your face, which is by itself pretty great.”

especially excited to debut one of Christian’s original paintings on our cover, allowing it to showcase his multi-dimensional talent, vision and dreams just the way he intends it. We think our cover is pretty spectacular but we had to ask if he would do something different on this cover because, after all, it is dedicated to his world. Again, we were won over by his endearing enthusiasm and humble modesty. “Oh my god, it looks amazing. When I see a painting of mine hanging on someone’s wall or when someone tells me they like what I did, it always feels amazing. You know, I don’t paint all the time, so it is really great to see it.” We think it’s pretty great to see it too. Thank you Christian! ☐

ABOUT CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

A celebrated American fashion designer and a Time100 honoree, Christian Siriano was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by TIME Magazine for being a dedicated champion to body positivity in fashion both on the runway and red carpet. His commitment to inclusivity has revolutionized an industry that is often hesitant to change and thus has helped transform the landscape of American fashion. Christian has added interior designer to his impressive list of credits with the debut of his newest venture, Siriano Interiors. With over a decade of fashion experience, the Siriano design studio will create uniquely bold Painting title: "Black and White Tarp Abstract"; Bench: Siriano Interiors; Photo by Sara Kerens

spaces that are modern, playful, warm and luxurious. Due to high demand, Christian will re-release his popular 2017 coffee table book of images called DRESSES TO DREAM ABOUT released by Rizzoli this Fall, it will feature brand new images from his growing, impressive body of work.

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Painting title: "Black Tarp Abstract" Photo by Sara Kerens

FEATURE

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WRITTEN BY CINDY CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHY BY CODY SMYTH

Creative Direction and Production by Liz Vap, FeralCat Productions Styling by Erin Turon Makeup by Jenny Smith with Nars Hair by Peter Butler

FEATURE

here’s no place like Regina and Ryan Cohn’s quirky Westport home, a meticulously showcased exhibition of oddities and artifacts from around the world set in a classic New England country estate. Although I was expecting to find the macabre eccentricity of the Addams Family, theatrically contrived, when I ventured to the surprising suburban haven of the hosts of the former Oddities reality show and the current curators of the Oddities Flea Market, instead I found myself transported to the marvelous land of odds where a wizard and a good witch lived with their little dogs and scaredy cat. Their house was not unlike the one that Dorothy’s Auntie Em may have lived in, a colonial farmhouse with nook and cranny coziness, wallpapered finery and a tucked-in attic alcove, created with heavily distressed paneling that was rescued from a burnt down 19th century church, perfect for reading the day – or praying the night – away. The munchkins that reside here take shape in real shrunken heads, maniacal articulated dolls, Egyptian mummies, and rare osteological specimens. There are flying monkeys and stuffed birds in mock flight here as well, along with a swinging lamb and any number of winged gargoyles quietly strutting their stuff. Cauldrons, empty now, teased with visions of sorcery and witchcraft. The scarecrow came to life in suited armor, with a headless one reminiscent of the friendly fellow without a brain. Centuries-old oil paintings provided eerie scenic settings, dimly lit, with portraits of people past and marble busts of noble origin eyeing us no matter where we ventured from their view. Rare books lined the shelves, many boasting exacting anatomical illustrations exquisitely detailed. Skeletons and statues stood rigidly by, silent insects hovering overhead, each possibly intoxicated into eternal repose by the poppy-esque flower fields that surrounded the house. The wicked witch and sidekick ghouls no longer pose threats in this land of odds, frozen in time as they were in poses wickedly cool. The dining room hippo, mouth agape and teeth bared, is just a mere fraction of himself now, with only his bony head remaining on Earth. There were more relics and rarities than I could count in the salon and living rooms, including taxidermied critters, anatomical curiosities, religious iconography, occult pieces and unconventional jewelry, each having been carefully collected by these remarkable connoisseurs of the creepy. Venturing upstairs, I paid my respects to a Spanish 18th-century Santos, life-sized and nailed to his cross in the two-story stairwell, but couldn’t 100

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OPPOSITE PAGE: Wendy Nichol Custom Silk Gown Price upon request www.wendynicholnyc.com 415 W Broadway, 212.431.4171 Fedko Beetle Pendant, $9,500 Earrings, $6,900 www.atelierdemotion.com Barker Black Shoes (on Ryan) www.barkerblack.com

help but notice how familiar the hallway wallpaper was. “Brunschwig and Fils,” offered Ryan as he saw me gazing at it intently, recognizing the expensive paper from one of the world’s premier wallpaper houses in memories of own mother’s family home. An astute admiration for life’s finest luxuries was just one of Ryan and Regina’s many well-honed fortes, belying my initial, completely off-base, image of the couple who I thought might resemble a real-life Morticia and Gomez Addams. When an impossibly cute curly haired cockapoo, bobbed tail wagging, purple-tipped ears flopping, scrambled down the stairs with another small dog bringing up the rear, I found myself surprised again. My hosts grinned sheepishly, sharing that they support an animal Rescue organization in Brooklyn where they rescued one of the pooches Regina named “Spider.” “I love spiders too,” she added, “always have.” That statement was totally in line with what you might expect from an Oddities aficionado, but when you hear it from a soft-spoken petite beauty, you do a double take. While she is wonderfully at home with all the creature comforts of her new home, Regina Marie Cohn hails from a haute couture background managing retail operations for such fashion luminaries as Madison Avenue’s elite lingerie boutique, Agent Provocateur, French firm

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Sandro/Maje, and hip brands alice + olivia and Betsy Johnson and today serves as the executive producer and event planner extraordinaire for New York-based Oddities Flea Market, roles she visibly relishes. “Regina has changed my whole mindset about what I’ve been collecting. I was heavily into anatomical antiques – that’s been sort of my interest for the past decade or even more. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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When we met, I started to make this change from anything anatomical and even some of the stuff that is a little bit grisly. I went from collecting that predominantly to going in a more elegant direction. Regina would pick out a chandelier and things of that nature and add it to those rooms. It has evolved from there,” said Ryan. You can see her fine touches in the priceless antique carpets and furnishings, Rococo pieces mixed with English and Italian styles, in the artful displays inside cabinets of curiosity, where one-of-a-kind osteological finds and medical history ephemera make striking design statements, and in the antique accouterments that speak volumes about life long gone. She transforms the images of death that abound here with a softness that somehow takes the sting out of it. Ryan has had a fascination with life and death, the grotesque and the scary, since he was a little boy, never fearing any of them. His

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obsession with obscure items began when he was a kid of three or four, when hunting for reptiles day and night, alive or dead, was his childhood passion. “I would put them in little Ziploc bags under my bed. I think my parents were really worried about me. I remember my dad sat me down and said, ‘Alright, you’re either going to become a doctor or a serial killer or something somewhere in between.’ It was really funny because at family events, even at our wedding, they would say my bedroom was like what children’s nightmares were made of,” said Ryan. “Our house is a strange extension of my childhood. I was born in Maine and grew up in Woodstock, New York. My mother was into country antiques so I think I have mixed it all together in some form or fashion.” Both he and Regina are avid and expert antique hunters, with finely-tuned sensibilities that celebrate the elegant, rare one of a kind artifacts they have collected through their travels and invitations. Many CD Greene Gown, $9500, Bergdorf Goodman NY Nickho Rey Hoops, $270, www.nickhorey.com

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pieces came from the finest auction houses and museums from all around the world. Some items they literally waited a decade to own and through due-diligence, they somehow made their way into the Cohns’ home.

“You have only one chance to buy these pieces,” said Ryan, “or else you’ll miss the opportunity forever. You can’t just chalk it up and say you’ll get another one. It doesn’t exist.” Which also changes my perception of the pieces exhibited here. Most pieces found here can’t be found anywhere else, like the sixteen-legged chick Regina gifted Ryan for his 40th birthday or the 17th century books on occult natural history anatomy, the crazy stained straight jacket out of a long defunct mental hospital, or the actual ceremonial tsantsa (shrunken head) from 1800s Ecuador, grisly to look at. Price tags range from the hundreds for a single 18th-century tooth into the hundreds of thousands for a medieval suit of armor. “I really can’t put a price on these,” Ryan confided as he showed me his personal favorites. They include the 18th-century gilded polychromed “Putti” figures from Italy he brought home recently, the likes of which he had never seen before. The sculptures came from a private collection that had been fiercely guarded by the man who owned them. “I’ve only had them for a few months. I’d say my other new favorite addition would be the 18th-century oil painting of Cleopatra holding a serpent which adorns our dining room,” he said. And Regina’s picks? “The Victorian taxidermy birds I’ve collected over the last decade are some of my favorite pieces in the collection,” she said. “I have many beautiful peacocks and a variety of smaller natural history specimens I truly adore. As far as modern art pieces, I have several Stephen Mackey originals that I love. Most of the pieces they sell in their collections tell a story, sometimes a grim one, but they always tell tales about an important part of history. That’s another unexpected revelation that is revealed when you meet Ryan Matthew Cohn in the flesh. He is fascinated with history and research, and takes an active interest in all facets of life around him. Ryan was meant to go to school for medical illustration, short lived as it was, played rhythm guitar for a New York City rock band that found some headlining success, and apprenticed as a silversmith to rising star acclaim with one of Ralph Lauren’s designers, all the while scouring flea markets and antique emporiums for the weird stuff of his dreams. “I have always been good at sensing what would be cool before CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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they actually became cool,” he said, explaining how he gained worldwide notoriety for his passions. After being discovered by the Discovery Channel as a buyer for an antiques store, he soon starred in his own reality TV show “Oddities” with his mummified animals and skulls. The show aired 73 episodes during its five-season run gaining a cult following who still stream the show on demand today. Always a dapper dresser, Ryan prefers to don custom tailored suits that fit his taste for finery to a tee. In fact, he used to co-own a tailoring shop in Brooklyn that keeps him in his favorite threads. He also teaches anatomically based classes on re-articulating cat skeletons – reassembling the bones so they resemble the cat that owned them – in between hunting for more unusual objects for their wildly popular Oddities Flea Market. Sometimes they buy entire collections; other times they search for that one exceptional treasure that has alluded them for decades, but truth be told, Ryan owned “I can never really determine what I’m looking for next. These pieces truly find me.” Some items they put up for sale; they have a growing and loyal celebrity clientele who are always interested in Ryan’s finds. Others they keep for themselves in their residential museum. For them, part of the fun of collecting is the research they do and the stories they learn about the things they buy. Reliving history is a particular passion of the Cohns. Living with history is what makes their house come to life in unusual ways. “Living within our treasures is part of everyday life for us. I feel fulfilled with my collection around me every day. It’s truly an ongoing installation work of art for me, always evolving, always adding to the overall aesthetic. Each piece that we add tells a new story,” Ryan shared. Regina added that she doesn’t see the items as individual pieces, but rather how the collection as a whole evokes a certain aura or feeling; each room has its own cohesive tale to tell. In addition to the three fantastical floors of oddities in the main house, there is a 19th-century chapel on their property that is similarly filled to the rafters with museum pieces. It too has a legacy of its own, according to a Westport publication that writes about the history of this Gold Coast town. Originally a boat house, it is pictured in a black and white photograph taken more than a hundred years ago, and today whispers tales of its storied past as soon as you enter the historic building. Which begs the question. Did Ryan and Regina, Brooklyn transplants, just happen to get lucky when they spotted the random for sale sign on an antique house in a town they had never considered moving to? Or was it yet another one of Ryan’s prescient moves that makes some place cool before it becomes really cool? Or was the house, like the objects they collect, waiting for them all along? We think it was all three. ☐ theodditiesfleamarket.com | @odditiesfleamarket 106

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#DreamTeam: Cody Smyth @acesmyth Liz Vap @feralcatpro Erin Turon @er_tur Jenny Smith @jennyatwoodsmith @narsissist Peter Butler @peterbutlerhair traceymattingly.com

Christian Siriano Gown, $2,700 www.ChristianSiriano.com East Village Hats, Fascinator, $395 www.eastvillagehats.nyc Feather & Foxglove Grey Fox Necklace & Pin (on Ryan) prices start at $185 www.featherandfoxglove.com Harlin Jones Ring (on Ryan), $625.00 www.harlinjones.com Vintage Jacket on Ryan is an Antique Freemason Coat

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A weekend in Newport, Rhode Island, heralds the promise of many things. Mansions doubling as magnificent windows into the life of the rich and famous in centuries past. Mega-yachts meticulously maintained and polished to perfection.

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REIMAGINING NEWPORT BY CINDY CLARKE

D I N N E R

W I T H

T H E

VA N D E R B I L T S

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eaches beyond beautiful and beautiful people basking in a golden

inviting with chef-prepared haute cuisine in elegant

glow. Cavernous cottages reigning unrivaled over the oceanfront

settings. No matter if it’s your first time in Newport or

Cliff Walk. Cocktails and canapes atop Castle Hill. Harbor-front

your next time, a real-life taste of its privileged parties

haunts and seafood chowders impossible to resist. And a host of

never fails to evoke a Cinderella-effect that lingers long

privileged pastimes that welcome summertime guests eager to be

after you return home.

seen in the hottest scene in New England.

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I had the good fortune of spending three August

The allure of Newport dates back centuries to the gilded age of the 19th cen-

nights in Newport this year in a hopeful post-pandemic

tury when the likes of the Roosevelts, the Vanderbilts, the Astors and the Morgans

reverie, mingling with mariners, cocktailing with the

summered here with their private staffs in tow to cater extravagant parties for their

country club set, and wining and dining to my heart’s

well-heeled guests. In between their lavish brunches and sunset soirees, they played

delight in a mansion built by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt in

tennis, raced yachts and sailed along the storied shores of Narragansett Bay, carefree

1909 at the height of the Gilded Age. Avoiding crowds of

and coddled, fashionably dressed, cocktails in hand and fair winds at their backs.

tourists who ventured here to partake in all the portside

With a few notable exceptions that may have the blue-blooded scions of Newport

pleasures of Newport Harbor after a forced year-long

rolling over in their graves, it’s not all that different today. Visitors can make their way

quarantine was made infinitely easier by the itinerary and

inside the once-private halls of the Marble House, the Breakers and Rose Cottage

invitations we had in place for our visit. A sunset cruise

without a hand-embossed personal invitation. Multimillion-dollar yachts are now

aboard a private sailboat in the Bay, an exclusive lobster

available for charter and elaborate dinners are readily served in tony restaurants

luncheon aboard an elegant Trumpy yacht, a cocktail

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

reception at the esteemed New York Yacht Club, and a VIP dinner at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection worthy of writing home about. Nautical passions take center stage here both on and offshore. Sails unfurled, our little sailboat glided us effortlessly past fabled oceanfront estates that fortunes built, sharing star-lit views once reserved for the likes of Jackie Kennedy and Jay Leno whose grand homes line the shore. The Trumpy yacht we had lunch on the next day was a study in elegance. In their heyday, Trumpys were de rigueur for members of aristocracy, among them aviation pioneer Howard Hughes, the Chrysler family and the Duponts. Today, with just 400 in existence, these yachts are gleaming in mahogany and meticulously cared for by live-in crews and a captain who make sure their guests indulge in the good life. The owners of the Enticer sent a tender to pick us up as they ferried us to another time and place, where freshly made Aperol spritzes, chilled champagne and seafood freshly caught welcomed us aboard. Underdressed in borrowed bathing suits in preparation for an impromptu unexpected swim back to our sailboat, moored nearby, we made

an unforgettable entrance that is the stuff of stories yet to come. But our hosts remained politely unfazed, reflecting an unpretentious snapshot of the Newport of yesterday and the Newport of today. The New York Yacht Club is equally positioned at the top of the social scene, counting among its members the captains of industry, senators and presidents as well as the owners of racing yachts vying for the coveted America’s Cup, the pinnacle of yachting. Cocktails here are a festive black-tie affair, with ladies decked out in designer dresses and dress whites for the gents, making a fashion statement that needs no words. We enjoyed cocktails on the terrace overlooking the harbor as night fell and the lights at sea twinkled like diamonds. That there was a major hurricane brewing and expected to hit Newport the next morning was not on our minds or agenda. We were definitely someplace else, far away from worldly cares. Dawn broke in shattered trees, scattered leaves and sailboats stranded on rocky beaches where we spent the night in nearby Jamestown. Winds gusted at 65 miles per hour, closing the Claiborne Pell Bridge between our island retreat and Newport across the bay for a good part of the day. Gratefully, Hurricane Henri made a quick appearance on land before making a fast getaway out to sea. Newport was spared save for a stray branch or two and rain-soaked streets that puddled in cobblestoned pools. And, lucky for us, our CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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dinner reservations at The Vanderbilt that evening were still standing too.

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well-stocked library lined with books of all genres, in the

Overlooking 18th-century Trinity Church, the Vanderbilt sits on an unassuming side

billiards room blazing in red, in the parlor with its secret

street in the heart of Newport’s historic district, where a small sign quietly announces

bar, in the nooks and crannies tucked away throughout

your arrival at the Beaux Arts mansion on Mary Street. Blink and you might miss it.

for intimate tête-a-têtes. Outside, a perfectly posed

Built in 1909 by Alfred Vanderbilt, the great-grandson of Cornelius, who made his

patio, lush with manicured gardens and chaise lounges

fortune in shipping and railroads and made his family one of the wealthiest in the

at the ready for breakfast and tea by day, sits off the

nation and the world, the house was meant as a summer retreat for a lady love. When

window-walled Conservatory, where lighter fare and turn

she tragically passed away, a grieving Vanderbilt donated the property to the city of

of the century cocktails are served up for casual dining

Newport, just a few years before he perished, heroically it is said, aboard the ill-fated

pleasures.

Lusitania. The mansion was reborn as a Grace hotel, before becoming part of the

We were shown to our table inside the newly rede-

Auberges Resorts Collection of distinctive properties after a strategic partnership with

signed Dining Room in the front of the house, a mecca

the luxury hospitality group in 2018.

for inspired gastropub fare with special menu items

The Vanderbilt legacy lives on inside this boutique hotel, in the portraits and

creatively curated by Auberges Resorts Collection’s

maritime artwork that line the walls, in the wainscoted wood paneled walls, in the

Mayflower Inn chef-in-residence, April Bloomfield.

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

Bloomfield’s forward-thinking cuisine pairs the

We returned home to our bed and breakfast across

bounty of the sea and land with an innovative

the bay in a hidden gem of a New England coastal town.

take on approachable New England classics that

Lisa Sallee, the owner of the Lionel Champlin Guest

upends any preconceptions you may have about

House in Jamesport and a 20+-year veteran of the

hotel dining.

hospitality business, had left her freshly baked cookies

Dressed in navy blue, almost black, walls, with

out for us. Her recipes are locally sourced, pretty much

original hardwood floors richly patinaed over the

sugar free and made from thoughtful ingredients that

centuries, and lit by golden-shaded sconces and

turned our late-night indulgence into a healthful habit

a wood burning fireplace, everything about this

that moms everywhere would approve of. We took a

culinary tavern exuded a club-like ambiance, right

few and headed upstairs to bed.

down to its handsome leather chairs. Not surprisingly, the staff, attentive and amiable, made us feel like honored guests, sharing knowledgeable tidbits about the menu that upped our expectations of our dining experience. We began the evening with drinks like the locals do. The cocktail culture in Newport is as sophisticated as its affluent locals. The Apricot Spritz and the Turkish Expresso we sampled hit a new high as far as before-dinner drinks go. We were smitten at our first sips. Were it not for the addicting Puffed Beet Chips that hinted at the food yet to come, we could have been happy drinking our dinner. Our first course celebrated seafood in ways we had never before tasted. Think Rhode Island’s signature clam chowder, but lighten it up with clear broth, flavor it with hints of leek oil and fish fume, add pota-

As we hugged our hostess goodbye the next morning, she warmly invited us back as all the grand hostesses of Newport did ever since they first opened their summer “cottages” to guests in the Gilded Age. We’ll be back we promised her, eager to reimagine another weekend in Newport. ☐

About Dining at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection

Located at 41 Mary Street in Newport, Rhode Island, The Vanderbilt is home to 33 designer-inspired guest rooms, a luxury spa and three distinctive dining venues, The Dining Room at the Vanderbilt, The Garden and The Conservatory, along with a refreshed menu and eye-catching design at the popular Roof Deck. For more information and to make a reservation, visit aubergeresorts.com/vanderbilt or call +1-401-846-6200.

toes, bacon and a few well-chosen succulent clams and get ready to reimagine a local soup staple that rendered us speechless. Our rendezvous with the Blue Hill Mussels on toast, crisp baguettes topped with tomato, smoked paprika and aioli that seduced Maine’s coveted mollusks, left us in ecstasy. The Smoked Salmon, wrapped around deep-fried duck fat potatoes, candied coriander and topped with decadent crème fraiche, is a telling chef specialty. Exceptionally exciting, it serves as the perfect calling card for the culinary innovations April Bloomfield is known for. Senses soaring, we chose down-to-earth, pub stand-bys for our main course, but they too were anything but ordinary. Bedded on smoked chick peas, sautéed kale and kissed by limes, my chicken was bathed in yogurt and infused with cilantro, green mango and warms spices for melt in your mouth memories. Scott ordered the Vandy Burger, hand-pattied beef smothered in Harvest Moon cheese sauce, bacon and garlic aioli and served with house made French Fries, that ramped this go-to American comfort food up a notch by anyone’s standards. Dessert manifested in a traditional cheese plate and bite-sized beignets, dreamcoated in chocolate hazelnut and trimmed with fresh berries. We sat there in sated silence, dazzled by the Newport spin on dining like the locals do. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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MOTORING

The Bridge Celebrates its Fifth Anniversary

Invite-Only Event Marks Five Years with an Expanded Exhibition of 320 Rare and Storied Classic Cars Photography by Michael Foster, Robin Trajano, Tony Laiacona MARKING ITS FIFTH YEAR ANNIVERSARY, The Bridge returned to the hallowed grounds of the original Bridgehampton Race Circuit – now the cutting- edge golf club, The Bridge, on Saturday, September 18th. One of the nation’s most original and exclusive annual automotive events, this invitation-only exhibition, presented by Richard Mille, featured its largest showcase of incredibly rare cars yet. More than 320 automobiles of great provenance were sourced from collectors around the globe and arranged in automotive splendor across the rolling fairways overlooking the Peconic Bay.

Photo by Tracey Thomas

Returning for its fourth year as presenting sponsor is Richard Mille, which in keeping with the theme of the day, spotlighted two of its automotive-inspired watches, both introduced in 2021: the RM 40-01 Automatic Tourbillion McLaren Speedtail and the RM 029 Automatic Le Mans Classic. Making its North American debut, the Calder BMW Art Car (Artist’s Proof) was presented at The Bridge, just weeks off its first reveal at the Neue Nationalgalerie, Berlin. Conceived by BMW Group Classic for the Photo by Michael Foster

Alexander Calder BMW Art Car, Artist’s Proof

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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Calder Foundation, it realizes Calder’s dream of creating his own example of the first BMW

Art Car, operating as the kinetic work of art that the artist intended. Following its North American unveiling at Pebble Beach, Ferrari displayed the new 296 GTB an evolution of its famed mid-rearengined berlinetta sports car, with a new V6 engine coupled with a plug-in (PHEV) electric motor delivering up to 830 cv, alongside a variety of models that showcased the marque’s unparalleled racing history. Two automotive parades punctuated the event. The first, from Lamborghini, included approximately 20 cars stretching back as far as the eye could see in a dizzying array of bright colors. The brand marked 50-years of the Countach with an assembly of vintage models, as well as an Aventador LP 780-4

Shamin Abas, Bob Rubin, Jeffrey Einhorn Photo by PMC_Jared Siskin

Ultimae, concentrating the purest features of all Aventador editions into a perfect finale. A long line of Bentleys also entered the event in tandem, parking in front of the Teaching Facility, which served as a lounge for Bentley owners and guests. As guests strolled the event enjoying sips from Sherry-Lehmann Wine & Spirits, United Sodas of America and specially curated bites from Smorgasburg, Pagani recognized the 10-year anniversary of the Huayra, with four iterations of the hypercar on display. Bugatti returned to the event, this time with the Chiron Pur Sport and Chiron Super Sport. McLaren’s 765LT Spider and Artura were on display, as was Lucid with their Grand Touring Black and Dream Edition inviting

Samantha Angelo Photo by Jared Siskin

curious guests to climb inside. Coming off its North American reveal at Pebble Beach, Aston Martin showcased the Valhalla, as well

debut of their fully electric, 350 horsepower

as the DBX, their first luxury SUV.

Lifestyle Vehicle.

Over in The Bridge Next, De Tomaso

On the aviation side, NetJets brought its

returned to the event with a P72, a tribute to

full-sized Cessna Longitude mock-up. First-

the original P70; Glickenhaus made its Bridge

time partner Giorgio Armani showcased

debut showcasing the 2020 SCG 003 as

their Fall 2021 collection in an innovative

well as Swedish automotive brand Polestar

activation that lit up at sunset. Every guest

with their signature Polestar 1 and Polestar 2

received a key to unlock the box, with one

models. Canoo helped to launch The Bridge’s Photo by Michael Foster

successful individual winning some very

Future of Mobility section, with the east coast

special luxury package featuring items and CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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experiences across the world of Armani. The world’s leading producer of design and

Nina Whittington Cooper | Photo by PMC Jared Siskin

technology-driven smart connected fitness equipment, Technogym, displayed some of

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its latest products. Compass came on board

599; one of each model from the Ferrari

as the event’s real estate partner and J.P.

Challenge racing series (348, 355, 360, 430,

Morgan Private Bank also returned as an

458, 488); a gathering of Jaguar XJ220s; the

esteemed partner of the event.

full collection of great Jaguars of yesteryear

The vintage automotive showcase was

(XKC, XKD, XKSS); a large collection of

more spectacular than ever with a selection

vintage Lamborghinis, including the Miura,

of incredible cars curated from collectors all

Espada and Jarama; the full collection of

over the world. The exhibition included: each

modern McLaren Longtails (600LT, 675LT,

of the three GTO (“Gran Turismo Omologato)

765LT), as well as the Senna GTR and Sabre;

models produced by Ferrari, 250, 288 and

a gathering of Mercedes 300SL gullwing

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Richard Mille. Partners of the event included: Giorgio Armani, Ferrari North America, Bugatti, NetJets, McLaren, Lucid, Bentley, Technogym, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, J.P. Morgan Private Bank, Compass, Pagani, Canoo, De Tomaso, Polestar, Glickenhaus, Sherry-Lehmann, United Sodas of America and Nicholas Brawer. ☐ and roadsters; and extraordinary Porsches,

Business Development; and Jeffrey Einhorn,

including speedsters, cup cars, GT cars, 2.7

a Manhattan-based attorney.

RSs and two 935s.

A re-imagining of a typical concours

The Bridge is a collaboration between

event, at The Bridge, there is no judging and

Robert Rubin, who has owned the Bridge-

no awards. The co-founders have a shared

hampton Race Circuit since 1981 and founded

vision for the event that is about celebrating

The Bridge golf club in 2002, and the event’s

art, design, history and automobiles – not

organizers: Shamin Abas, President of

about competition.

Shamin Abas Ultra-Luxury Brand Marketing &

Presenting sponsor for The Bridge is

Protecting Our Oceans One Vessel at A Time

BY IVONNE GAMBOA

The International SeaKeepers Society is

deployment, Educational Outreach events,

at the frontline of ocean conservation and

and Community Engagement activities.

continuously working towards their motto of

SeaKeepers collaborates with numerous

“Research. Educate. Protect and Restore.”

organizations, academic institutions, and

SeaKeepers is a non-profit organization

government agencies in order to accomplish

dedicated to the facilitation of oceanographic

its DISCOVERY Yacht missions. SeaKeepers

research, conservation, and education

staff works closely with vessel owners and

through direct involvement with the boating

crew to coordinate research and outreach

community. SeaKeepers enables vessels to

activities that reflect each owner’s ocean-re-

take full advantage of their unique ability to

lated interests. The extensive DISCOVERY

visit every corner of the world by advancing

Yacht Fleet has provided support to ocean

marine science aboard private vessels and

conservation in all corners of the world and

raising awareness about global ocean issues.

is recognized in numerous scientific articles

The DISCOVERY Yacht Program is the

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published by Program Partners.

organization’s foremost initiative in accom-

A key area of focus in 2021 has been the

plishing their mission and goals. The program

effects of carbon emissions and with the

is comprised of Scientist-led Expeditions,

upcoming launch of SeaKeepers’ dedicated

Citizen Science which includes instrument

website this month and the Guide to Green

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT: Seakeepers

Boating in 2022, this information will provide

I found only ask for money but SeaKeepers

education and ocean conservation through

resources for individuals and boaters alike to

was the only organization I found that you

the Yacht Donation Program.

balance their carbon footprint with eco-con-

can actually participate and do something

SeaKeepers facilitates the yacht donation

scious practices.

meaningful – so now I get the best of both

process from working out the paperwork to

“SeaKeepers gives yacht owners, crew,

worlds, I can use my boat which I love,

picking up the vessel. The team accepts full

and boaters an opportunity to give back and

while also getting the chance to use it for a

responsibility for the vessel “as is, where

help out via our DISCOVERY Yacht Program,

good cause and help others that are more

is.” Donating your vessel can immediately

wherein a vessel is used as the main platform

schooled in ocean conservation to make my

eliminate your ownership cost, considerably

for research expeditions and outings, edu-

coast a better place.”

reduce your income tax burden and support

cational outreach, and conservation efforts,”

DISCOVERY Yacht Cabrillo assisted the

says Program Director, Tony Gilbert. “We also

Blue Latitudes Foundation team with deploy-

recognize that yachting and boating carry a

ment of a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)

responsibility to enjoy the marine environment

to do a science assessment off the Hunting-

in the most sustainable way possible for a

ton Beach harbor. The purpose of this outing

number of reasons. Not only would it be quite

was to determine how well ecosystems can

disappointing to go to your favorite dive or

thrive in artificial reef environments. This

snorkeling site, only to see dead, bleached

expedition served as an example of the type

corals, and virtually no fish or other reef

of research that can be accomplished when

inhabitants, but on a deeper level, this points

vessel costs are eliminated and scientists are

to a more dire situation where entire ecosys-

able to allocate those funds to other aspects

tems are suffering, and this can have larger

of the research budget, while also providing

repercussions down the line. Yacht owners

a fulfilling experience for the vessel owner.

can either be part of the problem, or part of the solution. And we hope they choose the latter.” Expeditions can range from afternoon trips collecting water samples, to providing a

a great cause for the oceans you love. “The yacht donation program at SeaKeepers is a vital component in our mission to protect and restore the world’s oceans,” says SeaKeepers Chairman, Jay Wade. “Donations

Donate your vessel for a cause

Like many other non-profit organizations,

platform that serves as a “floating classroom”

SeaKeepers heavily relies on donations to

for students, to a week-long trip with a team

operate and facilitate these expeditions.

of expert researchers. Vessel owners who

Since 1998, the charity has accepted boat

generously donate time aboard their yacht

donations that go towards scientific research,

receive recognition and benefits which include: tax benefits to the extent allowed by law; acknowledgement at SeaKeepers’ events; credit on the website; and features in the quarterly digital newsletter distributed to thousands of like-minded individuals. “I’ve been living in Southern California my whole life and I can see how things have changed in our waters - you can just tell the ocean is not what it used to be up our coast. So, I thought, if I’m going to do something, why not enjoy and make it meaningful,” says owner of DISCOVERY Yacht Cabrillo, Steve Marcin. “I want to do something that’s on my terms that I enjoy doing that is a good cause. So I found SeaKeepers by Google searching ‘ocean conservation’ and most organizations CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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SPOTLIGHT: Seakeepers

directly fund our scientific and educational programming for ocean conservation therefore letting us provide more Scientist-led Expeditions, Citizen Science and Instrument Deployments, Educational Outreach, and Community Engagement. In addition, yacht donations provide donors and yacht brokers with a great alternative to the time and expense involved in selling a vessel. Donors benefit by reducing their carrying costs and obtain a reasonable tax donation from a safe, reputable charity. Yacht brokers benefit from the ability to help their customers exit yacht ownership quickly and cost-effectively as well as having access to competitively priced inventory for sale and charter. All of these features combine to create a win-win-win situation for SeaKeepers, donors and brokers.”

120

Make an impact from anywhere in the world

that range from single-use alternative kits to

of trash we collect, and get citizens involved in

Despite the charity’s involvement with the

official SeaKeepers gear, to attendance at

science,” says Programming Intern, Sarah Van

boating community – there are other ways to

signature events.

Roekel. “The data is shared through Ocean

get involved and support ocean conservation

Beach Cleanups attract volunteers of

Conservancy’s database to help scientists

without owning a vessel. Advocating for the

all ages. Each cleanup has an educational

identify global trends in what types of trash

protection of our planet and raising aware-

element to it, with examples of microplastics,

are ending up where.” This activity allows

ness amongst your community, can be done

not so “fun facts” on the problems plaguing

volunteers to support our citizen science

from anywhere in the world. SeaKeepers has

our seas, and the tallying of marine debris

efforts and helps the community understand

a strong group of ocean advocates that show

collected at the end of each event. The data

the implications of trash on our shorelines.

their support through joining the Membership

collected is inputted into an application

Protecting our resources has never been

Program, and volunteering at beach clean-

called ‘Clean Swell’ through your phone.

more critical in preserving our future. To learn

ups. The Membership Program has different

“CleanSwell is a trash tracking app we use

more about how you can join SeaKeepers,

levels of giving and comes with benefits

at cleanups to take an inventory of the variety

please visit: www.seakeepers.org. ☐

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

Silver WELL-BEING

WELL-BEING

BY CINDY CLARKE

A noble history in health care

truly noble element, silver has

merchants and men of means. History points

instruments. In the mid-1960s, Johnson Space

made history for millennia, prov-

to the Phoenicians’ preference for storing

Center developed a lightweight generator to

ing its mettle as one of the earth’s

water, wine and vinegar in silver bottles to

dispense silver ions into the drinking water

most precious metals – and very

prevent spoiling. Ancient Greeks, Romans

aboard the Apollo spacecraft to kill bacteria,

first antibiotic. Silver gave birth to wealthy

and Macedonians were reputed to use silver

and in 2015, NASA approved the use of a

empires around the globe beginning in China

to keep the immune system strong thanks

silver-based water purification system aboard

around 900 BC. Ancient Egyptians considered

to its antiseptic properties. And sailors used

the International Space Station.

it magical and used it to ward off evil. Mer-

to throw silver coins into their milk to keep it

Its history as an effective germ-fighter

chants and traders banked on it. Aristocrats

from spoiling on long journeys before modern

remains untarnished today. All of which begs

toasted it and doctors operated with it. And

refrigeration.

the following questions, especially in light of

while gold gets top billing, it’s silver that con-

Wealthy families in the Middle Ages, a time

tinues to make the everyday world go ‘round.

rife with unsanitary living conditions, were

What if you could wear a mask, gloves and

Consider its uses in modern-day merchan-

known to gift silver spoons, naturally hygienic,

scarf threaded with 99% ionically plated silver

dise by the innovative company founded by

to babies to keep bacterial illnesses at bay.

to disarm opportunistic viruses when out and

entrepreneur Sharon Whiteley, TRU47, with

English royals were believed to be healthier

about in crowded places?

everyday health and wellness in mind. Silver

than the commoners they ruled thanks to their

Or wrap handles handled by countless unfa-

is the core element of all TRU47 products,

use of disease-defying silver utensils, plates

miliar hands with an antibacterial silver cover to

from masks, wraps and wipes to spritzes,

and goblets.

protect you from unhealthy organisms?

COVID and flu season concerns.

skincare, scarves and more, each meticulously

Hundreds of years later across the pond,

Or spray and wipe away thousands of

designed to inhibit the growth of germs, fungi

silver coins were dropped into drinking water

germs on suspect surfaces with a sanitizing

and viruses including odor-causing bacteria.

barrels for protection against water-borne

silver spritz or germ-fighting StellarCleenz

Its intrinsic antimicrobial properties were

illness, and during the Civil War, silver was

cloth?

first documented by Hippocrates, the “Father

used to treat syphilis and battle wounds. In

Or safeguard your skin with silver-formu-

of Medicine,” who wrote of using silver to

the 1880s, the use of silver nitrate in the eyes

lated soaps and creams that deter infectious

improve wound care and limit infection. Silver

of newborn infants to prevent post-delivery

invaders?

gained a sterling reputation for its sanitizing

infections was introduced. First discovered

You can, thanks to the folks at TRU47

swagger in the centuries that followed, valued

in the 1890s, colloidal silver became many

who are remaking history with a virtual trea-

as currency, and spoilage savior for mariners,

physicians’ treatment of choice for boosting

sure chest of silver bullets to ensure your

the healing process for their patients. Today

well-being. ☐

you’ll find it in TRU47’s skincare products and

TRU47.com

inhalers to support and enhance overall wellbeing, along with nourishing essential oils. Before the advent of manmade antibiotic drugs in the first half of the 1900s, silver was a leading player in the medical field, where it was commonly used in wound coverings, sutures and surgical

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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WELL-BEING

Good Vibrations

How to live in a way that keeps the good vibes flowing BY CINDY CLARKE

We had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Sinatra recently about this very topic, tapping into his renowned expertise on health, heart and healing and the energetic frequencies that power up our lives. He explained that “Our minds really are the greatest tools we have for raising our vibration. Our knowledge of high and low vibrational foods helps us make the best choices about what to eat and drink each day. Understanding the energetic nature of our thoughts and feelings allows us to work with them, and create vibrational experiences that support rather than diminish, our health and wellbeing.” “Literally every aspect of our lives affects vibration,” he said. The grumpy man you meet while getting your morning coffee gives off vibes that bring you down. The stranger you sit next to in the movie theater whose presence makes you feel uneasy. The little girl whose laugh makes you break out into a smile. Your pet that welcomes you home each day with an enthusiastic wagging tail. We are all vulnerable to the vibrational energy of others, good and bad. Even rocks and trees have vibrations. Everything does. Medical researchers have long talked about the vibrations of cells, noting the difference between healthy and dysfunctional ones. Illnesses, like cancer and malaria, can slow down and lower the vibration of cells, as can depression and other mental and emotional conditions. Healthy cells pulsate effortlessly. The higher the vibration, the stronger and healthier we become. Lower vibrational ener-

are all life forms. From the tiniest cells in our

through everything we know and are on Earth.

bodies to our vital organs and the essence

It’s the feeling that vibrates through us when

of life itself, energetic vibrations govern all

rage, jealousy and grief. On the other hand,

we interact with loved ones and strangers,

of our interactions. How they impact our

love, kindness, joy and the like are higher

when we swim in the ocean or walk barefoot

health and influence our choices are key to

vibrational emotions that buoy your spirit and

along the beach. It’s in the food we eat, the air

living our best life says integrative medicine

lighten your load.

we breathe, the emotions we feel, in what we

specialist Dr. Stephen Sinatra, a board-certified

We live in an environment that is contam-

think, how we act and where we live. It can be

cardiologist, anti-aging physician, bioenergetic

inated with invisible energy vibrations that

good or bad, nature’s own or manmade. It can

psychotherapist and author of dozens of

can seriously impact our health. These come

heal or harm, and it is wholly responsible for

holistic health books, including Heartbreak

from technologies we’ve developed to make

our overall well-being, body, mind and soul.

and Heart Disease and an upcoming one on

our lifestyles easier, including computers, cell

high vibrational living.

phones, microwaves ovens, and cordless

The human body is an energetic being, as 122

gies weaken our vital force and can make us

Energy. It’s the vital force that pulsates

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

sick. Fear is a lower vibrational emotion, so are

phones. The key to thriving in this environ-

heart attacks, strokes and more. Exercise

DETOXING IS CRITICAL. We all have toxins

ment, says the good doctor, is to be productive

delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues

in our bodies from the air we breathe and

and not self-destructive at the same time.

and helps your cardiovascular system work

the foods and water we consume on a daily

“One of the great things about a high

more efficiently. And when your heart and lung

basis so it is inherent upon us to eliminate

vibration lifestyle is that it helps us get back

health improve, you have more energy to do

them every day. These toxins include mercury,

in touch with the natural rhythms of the body

what you need and want to do.

insecticides and chemicals which all lower our vibration. According to Dr. Sinatra, eating

and nature,” he said. It’s about listening to

a high-fiber, bowel-cleansing diet is one of

our bodies and emotions, intuitively knowing

SUPPLEMENT YOUR HEALTH REGIMEN.

what’s best and consciously nourishing them

Dr. Sinatra recommends nutritional supple-

the best ways to help your body detox, as is

with a healthy diet of organically produced,

ments, Vitamin C, Magnesium, Omega-3 fatty

sweating out the heavy metals and toxins that

naturally grown food and positive thoughts.

acids, COQ10 and a high-potency multi vitamin

It’s about grounding wherever you can and

with B vitamins and antioxidants, to support

unplugging whenever you can. And it’s about

a healthy diet. He’s a firm believer in the

making healthy choices and exercising every

power of nutritional supplements to promote

day so that you can reenergize your body and

optimum health, but at the end of the day, he

honor your life.

says you still need to eat a high vibrational,

How do we go about accessing these good

Follow a Mediterraneaninspired diet.

skin in an infrared sauna or while exercising. PROTECT YOURSELF FROM EMFS. On some level, manmade EMFs (electromagnetic frequencies) stress your body, ultimately

anti-inflammatory diet.

impacting your vibrational energy. EMFs can

GET GROUNDED. Just as our bodies make

brain cells and may also cause health issues

vibrations? Dr. Sinatra advocates seven lifestyle pillars that ramp up your energetic vibes.

lie just beneath the subcutaneous layer of your

vitamin D by absorbing the sun’s energy through our skin, we benefit from the abundant electrical nutrition that’s available to us

There’s something special about the Mediter-

from the earth’s surface in the form of free

ranean basin that makes people from these

electrons that pass from the ground into our

places live longer and healthier than almost

bodies. The Earth’s natural electromagnetic

anywhere else. A lot of it has to do with their

energy is not only high vibrational, it’s also

nutrient-dense, chemical-free diets which

one of the best inflammation fighters there

consist of olive oil – the secret sauce of the

is – and inflammation is the leading cause of

Mediterranean diet and a proven inflamma-

many chronic illnesses.

tion fighter – fresh fruit, vegetable, and fish, sardines are a favorite, along with a lack of

EMBRACE POSITIVITY. Be grateful, kind

unprocessed, uncontaminated foods and a

and forgiving. Dr. Sinatra calls this a high vibe

little bit of red wine! Organic farmers produce

trifecta. Research links gratitude to stronger

their food products the old-fashioned way so

immunity, fewer aches and pains, better sleep,

he always advises buying from locally sourced,

and even lower blood pressure. Kindness is

organic vendors when you can. And stay away

contagious energy in motion toward a higher

from synthetically manipulated GMOs and

vibration. When we hold on to past hurts with

sugar! Dr. Sinatra says the 80/20 rule works

negative thoughts and feelings, that energy

best here, with 80% of your diet from healthy

is trapped within and blocks our access to

fats (like olive oils and nuts), colorful vegeta-

higher, healthier vibrational energy. Managing

bles and fruits, and legumes with just 20% from

stressful emotions and thoughts is important

animal protein.

too. According to Dr. Sinatra, stuck emotions

allow toxins to permeate the brain and damage related to inflammation. Unplugging from technology, turning off WiFi, and using a landline when possible are great ways to mitigate any potential impacts of our modern-day lifestyles. “It’s easy to begin making changes that will improve yours,” advises Dr. Sinatra. “Just apply this one rule: When faced with a decision— whether it’s about what to eat, what products to buy, or even what you want to do with your spare time—choose the option that’s as pure, natural, and true to who you are as possible. If you can do that, you’ll be on your way to higher vibrational energy and better health.” ☐ For more information about Dr. Stephen Sinatra and high vibrational living, visit heartmdinstitute.com and vervana.com

create emotional obstacles that prevent EXERCISE. Keep your energy flowing to

us from fully engaging with life. When the

counteract any negative energy that can

energy can’t flow freely through our bodies,

build up inside. Blocked energy lowers our

our potential for vitality is compromised, and

vibration and raises our risk of illnesses like

our vibration slows down. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

123

WELL-BEING

TH E MAG I C O F

MUSHROOMS BY JUDY CHAPMAN

‘Bi o di versi ty i s o u r b i o sec ur i ty’ PAUL STAMETS

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ushrooms have emerged to become one of the most unexpected

remedies

for treating modern-day diseases, mental health, and even our environment.

be mushrooms. Scientists across disciplines need to work together. Biodiversity is our biosecurity. Think of the bigger picture. We were forest people. We are losing the perspective of the synergism and symbolism of the ecosystem that has given us birth. I think it’s wise to go full circle and reinvestigate.”

Judy Chapman goes underground to explore the magic of mushrooms. Have you seen ‘Fantastic Fungi’ yet? Directed by Louie Schwartzberg , the awe-inspiring documentary is a descriptive time-lapse journey about the magical and medicinal world of fungi and their power to heal, sustain, and contribute to the regeneration of life on Earth. It’s possibly one of the most inspiring documentaries of the decade! Mushrooms are the largest living organism in the world for the creation of soil and play an essential role on Earth. They have been recycling and helping to heal our planet for centuries. Mushrooms have long been used in medicine to treat chronic diseases including infections, cancer and even Alzheimer’s. More

CAN MUSHROOMS HELP SAVE OUR HOME, PLANET EARTH? For the last 15 years, the root mycelium has been used to clean up all sorts of environmental disasters – from oil spills in the Amazon to boat fuel pollution. Mushrooms are also able to convert pesticides and herbicides into organic matter,

break down and even digest polyurethane

remove toxins from contaminated soils and

before turning it into organic matter.

even break down plastics. Could mushrooms be the answer to the world’s growing plastic problem?

Mycelium can also help clean up air pollution. Last year, a pop-up display in the Nether-

On a global scale, humans generate around

lands, ‘The Growing Pavillion’ demonstrated

300 million tons of plastic waste each year and

how mycelium captured twice its weight in

at least 79% accumulates in our landfills and

carbon dioxide (compared to concrete that is

oceans (only 9% is recycled and biodegradable

the most widely used man-made material that

plastic does not break down in our oceans).

is responsible for producing eight percent of

recently, psychedelic ‘microdosing mush-

In 2011, Yale students on a class trip to the

rooms’ are being trialed to therapeutically treat

Amazon Forest in Ecuador discovered that a

With the understanding that mushrooms

depression, anxiety and PTSD.

the world’s CO2 emissions).

rare fungus, the Pestalotiopsis microspora, has

absorb the nutrients (and toxins) from the soil,

No longer a hippie movement, fungi

the ability to break down polyurethane plastic.

it’s important to choose pesticide and herbi-

wellness brands are mushrooming all over

According to the research, this mushroom can

cide-free mushrooms that are wild foraged

the planet.

live in environments without oxygen for days,

– or grow your own.

Meet Paul Stamets, the world’s most renowned mycologist and a leading authority, author and medical researcher in fungi including habitat, medicinal use, and production. According to Stamets, our biosphere is quickly changing, eroding the life support systems that have allowed humans to ascend. Unless put into action policies and technologies that can cause a course correction in the very near future, species diversity will continue to plummet, with humans not only being the primary cause, but one of the victims. Stamets says that Fungi, particularly mushrooms, offer some powerful and practical solutions. In his words: “Let’s be more friendly. Let’s CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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WELL-BEING

MUSHROOMS FOR HEALTH AND LONGEVITY

THE MICRODOSING PSILOCYBIN MOVEMENT

For over thirty years, medicinal mushrooms

There’s now increasing evidence that

have been approved as an addition to cancer

suggests that physician-supervised use of

treatments in Japan and China. In fact, it’s

psychedelics (such as microdosing psilo-

reported that there are over 100 types of

cybin mushrooms) can successfully treat

mushrooms used across Asia to treat cancer

mental-health conditions.

which makes sense as over 78% of all cancer

Microdosing involves taking very small

drugs derive from nature. Some of the types

amounts (such as 1/10th of a dose) every

of mushrooms used to treat cancer include

few days over several months. It’s not about

Shiitake, Maitake, Reishi and Turkey Tail.

having a hallucinogenic trip, but boosting

A recent study by Penn State College of Medicine found that people who consumed

creativity, focus, energy, thinking, happiness, and connection.

TRENDS IN THE PSYCHEDELIC & HEALING MOVEMENT

18 grams – about 1/8-1/4 cup of mushrooms

In the ‘Fantastic Fungi’ documentary,

daily had a 45 percent lower risk of cancer

researchers look at the ‘Stoned Ape

than people who didn’t eat mushrooms. The

Theory’ developed by Terrence McKenna

study credits ergothioneine, an antioxidant

and his brother Dennis McKenna. The

in most mushrooms, in particular shiitake,

theory is that it’s possible that a community

the microdosing magic mushroom trend. Fast

oyster, maitake, and king oyster mushrooms.

of pro-to-humans might have consumed

track to 2021, and here are five trends in their

Another promising study (published in

the magic mushrooms they found which

Psychedelic and Healing Initiative 2021 trend

the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease) demon-

profoundly changed their brain over time

report.

strated that eating more than two portions

- the human brain has tripled in size in just

of cooked mushrooms per week could lead

two million years!

Back in 2018, The Global Wellness Summit (www.globalwellnesssummit.com) identified

TREND 1

Centers

Expanding University

to a 50 percent lower risk of mild cognitive

Although psychedelics in general remain

impairment (MCI) which often precedes

classified in the US as Schedule 1 narcotics,

From the founding of the world’s first formal

Alzheimer’s disease. The six-year study

they are now a multi-million-dollar move-

center for psychiatric research at Imperial

included 663 people aged over 60, The

ment.

College in London in 2019, followed that

types of mushrooms included in this study

Start-ups are raising in the hundreds of

same year by the opening of the Center for

were easily accessible ones including shi-

millions in venture capital, and it’s reported

Psychedelics and Consciousness Research

take, oyster, golden white button and canned

that the global psychedelic drug market could

at Johns Hopkins Medicine, other dedicated

button mushrooms.

reach nearly 11 billion by 2027.

centers for psychedelic study include the 2020 arrival of the UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics. This year alone, 2021 welcomes the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai’s new Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research; NYU Langone opened its new Center for Psychedelic Medicine; and the new Neuroscape Psychedelics Division was founded at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). What’s next? Harvard Law School. It has announced a new psychedelic research initiative called POPLAR, which stands for the Project on Psychedelics Law and Regulation. It will work to promote safety and equity in psychedelic research and commerce.

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Thriving Research

passed two milestone initiatives in support of

winner Daniel Carcillo, a former NHL player

Global research in psychedelics continues to

psychedelics. One decriminalized possession;

for the Chicago Blackhawks, is founder and

gain momentum; a snapshot of current clinical

the other authorized the state’s health depart-

CEO of Wesana Health Holdings, which looks

trial numbers aggregated by the US Depart-

ment to license psilocybin growers and train

at using psychedelics to heal Traumatic Brain

ment of Health and Human Services reveals

facilitators in psychedelic-assisted therapy

Injury.

71 clinical trials for psilocybin (which is found

with an eye to making treatment available in

Authors, public intellectuals and celeb-

TREND 2

2023. That November election also saw Wash-

rity doctors Andrew Weil, MD, and Deepak

A literature review of the PubMed.gov data-

ington D.C. pass Initiative 81 to decriminalize

Chopra, MD, have both joined psychedelic

base shows a nine-fold increase in psilocybin

psychedelic plants and fungi. The measure

companies.

research published between 2010 and 2020.

received 76% of the vote.

in psychedelic mushrooms).

With signs of encouragement from the FDA

In Texas, conservative Republican icons,

and increasing awareness of the limitations of

including the former Texas Governor Rick

treatment for mental wellness, research in

Perry and US Senator Ted Cruz, urged sup-

psychedelics is skyrocketing.

port of a bill that would authorize the study of

Changing Hearts and Minds, and the Law, too TREND 3

the therapeutic benefits of psychedelic medicines to treat military veterans diagnosed with PTSD. Last month, that bill became law. A

The late reggae great Bob Marley will be a name associated with Silo Wellness in Jamaica. Silo will first release Marley-themed wellness products and later work on a Marley-branded psychedelic offering.

THE FANTASTIC FUNGI SUMMIT 2021 If all of this sounds fascinating, experience the

At the federal level, for the first time, the

measure before the California State Assembly,

House Appropriations Committee in July

SB-519, to legalize possession of psychedel-

released a budget report with an urgent

ics is out of committee and expected to reach

request for psychedelic therapies. Citing

the floor for a vote and be signed into law.

Schwartzberg, the summit will feature visionMycologist Paul Stamets, celebrity chef Rick

pleaded for the National Institutes of Health

Arriving on Wall Street

Those psychedelic start-ups that emphasize

to “undertake, and where appropriate expand,

new research and innovative approaches are

Says Louie Schwartzberg: “We’re in the

research to evaluate the effectiveness of

now receiving investor attention.

the suicide rate for US veterans of 17 a day, the report’s lead author Rep. Rosa DeLauro

TREND 4

psychedelic therapies in treating PTSD, major

The UK-based Compass Pathways made

depressive disorder, and other serious mental

history in September of 2020 when it was the

health conditions.”

first psychedelic company to arrive on Wall

At the state level, it’s not just the West

Street with a listing on the NASDAQ exchange.

Coast anymore. Changes in psychedelic drug

Other psychedelic companies now listed

laws are sweeping the nation, even in Texas.

on the NASDAQ include MindMed, as of

Voters, aware of the growing research on

March 2020, which counts Kevin O’Leary from

how psychedelic medicines can achieve thera-

the television show “Shark Tank” among its

peutic benefits in the treatment of depression,

investors.

anxiety, PTSD, existential distress during end-

ATAI Life Sciences, founded by Christian

movement in more depth this October 15-17th. Hosted by ‘Fantastic Fungi’ director Louie aries including Deepak Chopra, renowned Bayless, author Michael Pollan and many more. midst of a full cultural ‘shroom boom’ and the Fantastic Fungi Summit is at the forefront of the movement. Whether you’re a mushroom neophyte or an expert, there is something for everyone. We’ve brought together the best in class for a powerful, fun, inspiring, never-been-done-before multi-day virtual experience” ☐ Registration for Fantastic Fungi Summit 2021 can be reserved at FungiGlobalSummit.com

of-life, and addiction disorders, are passing

Angermayer, the Berlin-based billionaire, with

ballot measures and supporting legislation.

support from PayPal founder Peter Theil, listed

Judy Chapman is an International Spa

on the NASDAQ in June.

Designer and consults for hotel, spa and

The Mile High City of Denver, Colorado, was first with a 2019 ballot measure

In July, the Toronto-based Cybin became

to decriminalize psychedelic psilocybin

the first psychedelic company approved for

mushrooms. Santa Cruz and Oakland, Cal-

listing on the New York Stock Exchange.

ifornia, promptly followed with successful city council votes for decriminalization, as did Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Somerville and Cambridge, Massachusetts. In the November 2020 election, Oregon

Psychedelic Media, Much More Media TREND 5

A constellation of luminaries in psychedelics is now shining brightly. Two-time Stanley Cup

wellness brands around the world including Menla Mountain Retreat in the USA. Judy also develops white label skincare products for spas and individuals. She is the former Editor-in-Chief of Spa Asia magazine and author of several books on wellness and spas. Judy is currently based in Byron Bay, Australia. www.judychapman.com.au

CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE

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“EXHALE 1” PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORBETT FOOTE

“I believe, every day, you should have at least one exquisite moment.” – Audrey Hepburn –

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GALLERY Greenwich

New York

Newport

RICK GARCIA, “Tranquiity”, Acrylic on Canvas, 34” x 46”

“Curating Art That Reflects Your Passions” cparkergallery.com

info@cparkergallery.com

409 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830

203-661-0205

VENÜ #46 FALL/HOLIDAY

Articles inside

Venügram

The Magic of Mushrooms

Good Vibrations

SEAKEEPERS

REIMAGINING NEWPORT

The Wizards of Odd

Christian Siriano

Jessica Lichtenstein

PURVIS YOUNG

FATVillage Presents: Karen Graffeo

Laurel Canyon Love

SILVER

Temple St. Clair

The Bridge Celebrates its Fifth Anniversary

Edwin Chan

Design Gives Back

Jeffrey Maynard

Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards

François Wolff Belizaire

Photographer Profile

VALUE UNLOCKED

The Golden Palate

Steelpointe Yacht & Charter Show

RESPECT: A Gifted Piano (Steinway & Jennifer Hudson)

Philip Jalufka is Unstoppable