Joann's American Lifestyle June 2017

American Lifestyle magazine

IN THIS

issue 6 | Anthropologie Designer Audrey Raudabaugh 10 | Summer Sophistication 18 | James Randle’s Urban Realism 26 | Jacob’s Pillow: The Performers’ Perspective 32 | Knoebels Amusement Resort 38 | The Photography of Real Estate Masterwork Series 42 | Royal Gorge Bridge

After a stint as a graphic designer for lifestyle brand Anthropologie, Audrey Raudabaugh decided to roll up her sleeves and tackle a new role in a new city in the same company— display coordinator. Raudabaugh reveals how her artistic childhood in Texas led to her pursuits as a designer, the challenges she faced during her career transition, and how her

all about audrey

anthropologie designer audrey raudabaugh interview with audrey raudabaugh | written by shelley rose

go-with-the-flow attitude has helped her succeed.

Where did you grow up, and how did that help shape who you are in your career? Do you still feel a connection to that place?

invitations. We were opening new stores,

I grew up in the suburbs of Dallas, Texas, in

of the cities that were launching the

a town called Coppell. I was always doing

new stores.

and I would create collages with whatever scraps I could find, like old postcards, envelopes, and stripes. They were abstract landscapes that reflected the vibe and look

something somewhat artistic as a kid—

sew, and draw. My mom was an art director

Now you work for Anthropologie in Tampa, Florida. How did your move to Florida come about, and what is your new role?

with Neiman Marcus, so she’s definitely been

I’d been thinking about being a display

a creative inspiration to me, and I used to

coordinator as a good way to stay with the

go on set with her and paint walls or just

brand that I love and a style identity I know

hang out with the production assistants and

so well. But I also wondered how I could

stylists—that was always the fun part. In

expand my skills. I was really drawn to

high school, I took art classes, sang in the

being away from the computer and having

choir, and danced.

fresh projects every day. My then boyfriend

always making something, feeling free to be creative in any way that I wanted. I would make home movies, create clay animation,

(and now husband) Eoin and I had decided

You went to the Savannah College of Art and Design. What made you choose that school?

to move to Florida to be near family and

I made a big leap without exactly knowing

a job opening as a display coordinator. The

where I wanted to go, but I knew I wanted

rest is history.

the beach. As we were driving to Tampa, I received an e-mail notification alerting me to

to make something or be involved in design.

I was open-minded. I didn’t even tour the school first. I figured, “Let’s try it.” The first time I stepped foot on the campus was

Are you responsible for conceptualizing the design for the retail store, as well as

orientation week, and it all made sense.

the displays?

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How did your internship with Anthropologie after graduation transition into your full-time position with the company?

The majority of the design is conceptualized

I worked as a graphic designer at the

doing with tools I wasn’t familiar with—

Anthropologie home office in Philadelphia.

saws, hammers, nails, and drills. I’ve built

I produced print design, focusing mostly

giant facades and fixtures that hold product.

on store events, posters, e-mails, and

We built a huge fixture that holds stationary

at the home office in Philadelphia. We then have creative freedom within that framework. It’s been a lot of learning by

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and notebooks and home pieces. We

Do you feel like all of your team

don’t only work on the artsy, fun, organic installations. There are a lot of displays that

help balance out your work?

hold product, and they have to be functional

Totally. I’m detailed and focused on the little

as well.

details, and they often see the bigger picture and can discern what’s more important.

There must have been a steep learning curve—going from graphic design to physically building and using tools like that. Do you think Anthropologie looks for people with building skills as well as design skills?

Then we all throw our funky ideas into the

I knew I had the craftsmanship and the

material but the material really speaks

attention to detail from working as a

to the final product—like you look at your

graphic designer—I was meticulous in

rope, and then you’re weaving it, and then it

that way. Understanding geometry, specs,

makes a meaningful statement.

pot, too, so it’s fun. © Bonnie Raudabaugh

Who would you say is the right now?

Sheila Hicks. She does these amazing woven pieces of art. I love when art is a simple

and measurements is key as well. In my

building experience from the beginning,

What is your favorite display that you’ve ever worked on? Why does that particular piece stand out to you?

and some have been strong builders, so it’s

One fall, we made some beautiful flowers,

a wide variety. When I was getting more

which is kind of cliché. But they were desert

information about the position, I was told

flowers—red clover, thistle, and dandelions—

that graphic designers are desirable because

and they were made from twist ties, straws,

of their craftsmanship.

cupcake liners, and little tags. Everything

experience, I’ve heard all different stories from previous display coordinators. Some of them have been illustrators with no

was dyed or transformed slightly and then

BUT WHEN YOU MOVED CLOSER, YOU REALIZED, “OH, IT’S MADE OUT OF TWIST TIES THAT HAVE ALL BEEN DYED OR COFFEE FILTERS THAT HAVE BEEN TORN.”

How often do you have to change the displays at the store, and what does the process for setting up the new displays look like? Do you work with a team?

bundled together in large masses and totally

Spring and fall are our largest seasons,

you realized, “Oh, it’s made out of twist ties

and summer and the holidays are when

that have all been dyed or coffee filters that

we usually take the existing displays and

have been torn.” So that was a lot of fun. I

transform them slightly to fit the season.

was really satisfied with how it turned out,

The visual team chips in occasionally, but I

and it was right at the front of the store,

own the projects and do most of the work.

so when you walked in, there were forty

project that you’ve put so much time and creative energy into get taken down at the end of the season?

I’m usually the one with a crazy bun and

different big blossoms—four feet high in

paint splatters on my jeans. I’m scurrying

some cases.

transformed. From far away, they looked like these great flowers in muted purples and dusty pinks, greens, and tans—really pretty desert colors. But when you moved closer,

How do you overcome creative blocks?

If you weren’t following this passion or weren’t working as a display coordinator, what do you think you would be doing with your time?

I do miss being a graphic designer, especially

When I put all that time and effort in, I want

because I had reached a certain level of

it to look really good, and that perfectionist

competency. It’s empowering to feel like

tendency can slow me down. I’ve learned to

an expert at something—like you’re really

It can be cathartic to dismantle them

pick my battles; I know when to dig in my

flexing your muscles. I dream about trying

because they often go to new homes for

heels and figure it out, and when I need to

my hand at CAD design. It’s the opposite of

around, not always as composed as the

others to enjoy. A lot of times we donate the

figure out a different solution. With creative

what I’m doing. It’s getting on the computer

associates. I work from six in the morning to

displays to nonprofits, like schools, to put

blocks, it can help to relax and be open to

and making 3-D objects come to life. There’s

three in the afternoon to take advantage of

up in their library or auditorium or art room.

a different approach. I’ve got a great team

something about the technical challenge that

an empty store in the early hours.

Sometimes it is sad, though, and I think of all

that I can bounce ideas off of, and they come

makes me wonder, “Could I be good at that?”

the hard work I put into it, but I’m ready to

up with awesome ideas, so it’s really a lot

For more info, visit audreyraudabaugh.com

move on to the next challenge.

of fun.

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Charred Eggplant (Baba Ghanoush) Risotto In this recipe, a large eggplant is charred and roasted, then puréed to make baba ghanoush, a Middle Eastern spread that adds a mildly smoky, creamy character to the risotto.

FOR THE BABA GHANOUSH 1 large eggplant (1 to 1¼ pounds) ¼ cup tahini (roasted sesame paste) ¾ teaspoon coarse sea salt 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 cloves garlic, smashed ¼ teaspoon ground chile powder 1½ teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil ¼ cup packed fresh Italian parsley or cilantro leaves FOR THE RISOTTO 4 cups vegetable stock 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil ½ cup Carnaroli or Arborio rice

summer sophistication

recipes by dominic orsini | photography by ed anderson, sara sanger, damion hamilton

¼ cup dry unoaked white wine 1 large red bell pepper, roasted, peeled, seeded, and sliced 2 cups packed arugula, coarsely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1. Make the baba ghanoush: Prick the eggplant all over with a fork. Place over a gas evenly, turning the eggplant as needed.

2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (or continue to use the grill). Place the charred eggplant on a rimmed sheet pan and roast in the oven (or using indirect heat on the grill) until completely soft and slightly shriveled, about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool to the touch, then split the eggplant lengthwise and scrape out the pulp.

Transfer the pulp to a food processor, add the tahini, coarse salt, lemon juice, garlic, chile powder, oil, and parsley, and process until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and develop. Bring 1 cup baba ghanoush to room temperature for the risotto and save the remaining baba ghanoush for another use. It will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Make and serve the risotto: In a large saucepan, heat the stock just until it reaches a simmer, then keep it warm. In a second large saucepan, heat the oil over medium salt and lightly toast the grains, stirring every 30 seconds or so, for 2 minutes. Add the wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine has been fully absorbed. Add 1 cup of the warm stock and cook, stirring constantly, until nearly all the liquid has been absorbed. Continue to add the stock, ½ cup at a time, cooking and stirring the rice until nearly all the liquid has been absorbed before pouring in the next addition, until the stock is used up, about 20 minutes. At this point, the rice grains should be tender but still intact.

4. Add the 1 cup baba ghanoush, the bell pepper, arugula, pecorino, and lemon juice to the risotto and stir to combine and heat through. Taste for seasoning and add more

© Silver Oak Cookbook: Life in a Cabernet Kitchen by Dominic Orsini. Rizzoli New York, 2016.

Images from Silver Oak Cookbook: Life in a Cabernet Kitchen © Ed Anderson, Sara Sanger, Damion Hamilton.

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SERVES 4–6 americanlifestylemag.com | 11

Grilled Summer Vegetables with Romesco Sauce My family lives off grilled vegetables during the summer, when grilling is an easy and convenient way to cook. Romesco is a red pestostyle Catalonian sauce made from a combination of roasted red peppers, nuts, and bread crumbs. It’s a delicious base for a platter of

FOR THE ROMESCO SAUCE 2 large red bell peppers

1 clove garlic, chopped 1 large egg yolk 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

FOR THE VEGETABLES 1 pound eggplant 1 pound assorted summer squashes 1 bunch red kale 8 ounces shishito peppers or small sweet peppers 8 ounces pole or romano beans, stems and strings removed

Fine sea salt for garnish

1. Make the romesco sauce: for direct cooking. Grill the bell peppers until they are blackened all over, turning as needed. Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap; let steam for 15 minutes.

Peel away the skin and remove the seeds and membranes, capturing as much pepper juice as possible.

2. hazelnuts, bread crumbs, garlic, egg yolk, vinegar, paprika, and salt and process until

can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.)

3. Grill the vegetables: If the grill is not already hot, prepare it for direct cooking over high heat. Cut the eggplant and squashes into ½-inch-thick slices and place in a large bowl. Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and add the leaves to the bowl.

Add the shishito peppers and the beans. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the vegetables and season with salt. Toss to coat the vegetables.

4. Grill the vegetables over direct heat, turning as needed, for 8 to 10 minutes for the eggplant, 4 to 6 minutes for the peppers, beans, and squash, and 1 to 2 minutes for the kale. As the vegetables are ready, transfer them to a sheet pan.

5. To serve: Spread the romesco sauce on a serving platter. Arrange the vegetables over the sauce. Garnish with the hazelnuts.

SERVES 6

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Dirty Porterhouse Steaks with Heirloom Cherry Tomato Panzanella Salad and Chimichurri Sauce connected by a T-shaped bone. It is undoubtedly the king of all steaks. The Italians call it

and grill the meat on a grate that rests directly on top of a thick bed of red-hot coals.

The steak sears to a crispy blackened crust with a blood-red center. In this recipe, I’ve eliminated the grate and thrown the steak directly into the bed of hot coals. This technique has several names, such as dirty steak, caveman steak, and even Eisenhower steak, as the late president was known to entertain his guests by preparing a steak this way.

1. Make the panzanella salad: Combine the onion and vinegar in a small bowl and stir to submerge the onion. Let stand for at least 2 hours or refrigerate up to overnight.

1 (1-pound) loaf day-old ciabatta bread 2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cucumber, peeled, halved, seeded, and cut into 12 fresh basil leaves, torn in half Juice of 1 lemon

2. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Tear or cut the ciabatta into bite-size pieces and spread on a rimmed sheet pan. Toast until golden, about 12 minutes. Remove and let cool, then transfer to a large bowl. Drain the onion and add to the pepper. Toss the salad to combine thoroughly and taste for seasoning.

3. Grill the steaks: the coals glow orange-red, fan them with a newspaper to blow off any loose ash.

Coarse sea salt 1 cup chimichurri sauce

4. Generously season the steaks on both sides with the coarse salt and press the spacing them about 2 inches apart. Grill, turning with tongs, until cooked to your desired doneness, about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Lift the steaks off the coal bed and shake each one to dislodge any clinging embers.

5. Use a basting brush to sweep off any loose ash, then transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let rest for 15 minutes. Carve each steak off the bone and cut the steaks against the grain into ¼-inch-thick slices. Throw the bones

6. To serve: Place the charred bones on a serving platter and reassemble the steaks around the bones. Accompany with the salad and the chimichurri sauce.

SERVES 6

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Lobster and Melon Summer Rolls with Nuóc Châm Dipping Sauce Nuóc châm is the Vietnamese term

makes the sauce the perfect dip for these summery rolls. Crabmeat or shrimp can be substituted for the lobster.

1 pound cooked lobster meat, diced 2 cups diced melon (such as honeydew, 2 teaspoons minced pickled ginger 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

12 (8-inch) round rice paper wrappers 24 large fresh basil leaves 2 ounces vermicelli rice noodles, rehydrated in hot salted water peeled, and cut lengthwise into 24 slices FOR THE NUÓC CHÂM SAUCE 2 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon thinly sliced green onion, white part only

1 small serrano or Thai chile, thinly sliced

1.

Combine the lobster, melon, ginger, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and stir to mix well.

2. Assemble the rolls: Select a shallow bowl wide enough to accommodate a rice the work surface. Dip a rice paper round into the water just until it is relatively wet on both sides. Do not leave it in the water too long or it will collapse on itself and kitchen towel, and leave it undisturbed for a bit until it softens fully and is pliable.

Lay 2 basil leaves end to end in the center of the bottom one-third of the rice paper round. Layer a pinch of the rice noodles on top. Place a generous tablespoon of the end to end.

3. the rice paper toward the center, overlapping them by about 1 inch and covering the work to form a tight cylinder. Transfer the roll to a tray or plate and repeat with the remaining ingredients. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.

4. Make the nuóc châm sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the warm water and brown sugar until the sugar has dissolved. Add the garlic, green onion, cilantro, lime

5. To serve: Cut each roll in half and arrange the halves on a serving plate with one half resting on its side and the other half standing up and resting against the horizontal half. Serve with the sauce for dipping.

MAKES 12 ROLLS

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urban realism

james randle interview with james randle written by shelley rose

What was it like growing up in Salt Lake City?

Oil painter James Randle grew up around other artists, including his own father.

My father is an artist who paints very

The Utah-born artist is heavily influenced by the places he travels, thoughtfully

traditional pastoral landscapes. As a young

digesting each city and transforming those experiences into paintings that capture that emotion.

boy, I would go to the studio with him in downtown Salt Lake. I was always around other artists growing up. The seed was planted in me early, but I played a lot of sports like soccer, and I didn’t really take painting seriously until I got to college, where I met other artists, all of whom are still painting or sculpting or creating

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me. Salt Lake City has a vibrant art scene,

Did you ever doubt if you were on the right career path, being an artist?

despite its conservative reputation. There

I didn’t doubt that I wanted to be an artist,

is a rich history of talented painters in Salt

but I worried about making enough money

Lake City.

to support myself and have the lifestyle I

art in some respect. Being around other interesting artists inspired me and pushed

wanted. It’s the first thing they tell you in college—don’t expect to be rich from this

for art?

and maybe don’t even expect to be able to

Yes. I went to the University of Utah and

do it for a career.

received a degree in painting and drawing.

What does your father think about you being an artist and your art? Can he appreciate

What is your state of mind while you’re painting? Do you sort of disappear into a focused place?

What does it feel like?

Sometimes I can lose myself in a painting

He’s so excited about everything I do. I don’t

and twelve hours go by. Other times it’s hard

think he cared that I went against the grain

to manage thirty minutes of good painting

as long as I took pride in what I was creating.

by the end of the day. The easiest time for

That’s the most important thing to him—that

me to get in the zone is when I have a body

I work hard at my art and constantly grow

of work and the first three or four paintings

and progress.

are done. Then I start to sense where the work is going. Some artists will say the most

What did the path to being a full-time artist look like?

exciting time is starting a new body of work.

It took a couple years. When you step out

questioning if I’m painting what I want to

of college, it’s not easy to start selling your

paint. Once I get halfway through a painting,

work. After college, I lived in Nigeria for a

it’s like I’m playing soccer against a really

few months doing construction. I also took

tough team and I’m up two goals. I’m feeling

a job in Sitka, Alaska, where I worked on a

confident and I start playing better. That’s

fishing boat. I wanted to test my stamina,

when I can really lose myself in the painting,

and I knew that job would involve extremely

get focused, and make bold moves.

For me, it’s the worst because I’m constantly

long hours and repetitive duties. I wanted to prove to myself I could do it and not quit. I knew I wasn’t going to be in construction my whole life, and I certainly knew after being in Alaska that I didn’t want to be a fisherman.

I’ve noticed gas stations and airstreams are two major themes. What do they represent for you?

I think my work is so heavily influenced by

After Alaska and Nigeria, I went full time

where I live and places I’ve had experiences.

into art. I had an opportunity to sell artwork

Airstreams represent travel and moving

in Scottsdale, and I had some success down

around in between those places. They’re also

there and picked up a few galleries. I did

fun to paint because they create a dynamic

some shows in Phoenix during the winters

landscape where you see everything in front

and eventually moved here full time several

of you, above you, behind you, and in the

years ago.

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“ One of my more popular paintings is called 2 Guns. It’s really monochromatic, and you can feel the sky. There’s hardly anything in the painting, but you can really feel the depth and the loneliness of the place.

reflection. The gas stations are something

can feel the sky. There’s hardly anything in

could get tangled up if the conductor were

that I see in the Southwest when I’m on the

the painting, but you can really feel the depth

to not let go of it. I purposely put those

road. I travel a lot in my van going to art

and the loneliness of the place.

words in your face and in the middle of the

shows between Phoenix and Santa Fe on

composition. The best feedback to hear is

Route 66—it takes me through a piece of

from people who look at my paintings and

history to see all these abandoned places

I consider myself to be a realist painter

ask, “How can you paint something that

and airstreams in various settings.

but not a hyporealist or a photorealist. The

I would never have considered wanting

word urban works as a description of the

to look at and make it so beautiful and

When I look at the gas station paintings, I feel a lot of emotion in them. Are there certain themes that you’re continually processing or working out in your paintings?

man-made element in my paintings. When

engaging?” Hopefully, when people look at

you look through my work, you don’t see just

my work, they see the value in looking closer

a pastoral landscape. There’s always some

at their surroundings and taking notice of

sort of industrial or man-made or urban

everything around them. Everyone thinks

element in the work.

that sunsets or a ripple in the tree is the

I think I have a lot of empathy for places

a pile of trash if it’s painted with empathy or

I have to understand and feel the place to

I noticed in one of your paintings, it says “Let Go” on the street. Was that creative license, or does it really say that?

paint it; otherwise, it doesn’t feel like me.

It really says that. Cable cars in San

I’ve always been an oil painter. It’s what I’m

One of my more popular paintings is called

Francisco are actually like an upside down

most comfortable with. Oil paint to me is a

2 Guns. It’s really monochromatic, and you

ski lift, and when they intersect, the cable

lot more malleable. It allows me to rework

I’m painting; I think these places that other people have abandoned are really beautiful.

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most beautiful thing. There can be beauty in photographed in a certain light.

What medium are you using?

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and cover things up and blend and soften,

I’m a firm believer that nothing comes

and I can eliminate or add things.

out of a void. It’s all inherited from somewhere else.

I read that you use photographs and sketches as starting points. Are you interested in photography or only to the point that it’s a reference point for your paintings?

How would friends describe you?

I tend to focus on people with a more negative opinion of me, so I can either work on those challenging traits or figure out how

I am a huge fan of photographers and

to channel them. I think people would say I’m

their work, and I get so many ideas for

eccentric and honest. I’m the kind of person

composition. I do use photographs as a

who does things and then reflects later.

reference for my paintings. Some artists

Sometimes I can be a little abrasive and rub

insist a painting can only be as good as your

people the wrong way, but it’s really allowed

reference. I’m the opposite. If I have a really

me to find out who my friends are.

“ First and foremost, I gain tools by practicing my painting. I also think it’s very important to surround yourself with other artists

good reference, I get too attached to it, like it into another piece of art. I prefer to have

Where are you when you’re not painting?

a looser reference with vague information.

I am hiking. I run a lot, and I play soccer. I

we have extra money, we love buying

I can figure out the rest, and it leaves me

like food and talking to friends. I spend a lot

original artwork.

room for creativity so I’m not just copying

of time alone when I’m painting, so it is nice

a photograph.

to socialize at other times.

I’m taking a piece of art and trying to turn

How do you feel about the word creativity?

What career are you neglecting right now by being a painter?

I would have been one of three things: an

Why do you choose to invest in artwork?

architect, an engineer, or probably a contractor.

Buying artwork can be just as gratifying

I think creativity is the ability to parlay

What is the atmosphere of your studio? Do you have music playing?

people who buy your paintings. It’s fun to be

meaning of life for yourself?

your awareness of an experience into

I love all forms of art, and music is definitely

on the other side of it and see how artists

I have a philosophy for who I am and what I

self-expression. I don’t think you can teach

something I’ve always been passionate

react when you buy their work. It’s like

want my life to be, and it’s pretty simple—to

creativity. I went to college to learn how to

about. I’ve collected music since I was quite

looking in a mirror, I suppose. I love filling

be satisfied and happy with what I do but

paint. I didn’t need anyone to tell me how

young, and I have a huge music library.

our house with art; I aspire to be a collector

to keep pushing myself. My biggest career

to be creative. I wanted the tools to

Sometimes music can be a little distracting

as well.

goal is to reach as large of an audience as

self-expression.

because I have to think about what I want to listen to too much. Radio and podcasts

How do you gain more tools now that you’ve graduated?

can be very nice; I like to be informed about world news.

as selling or painting. It is fun to meet the

possible and for people to see my work;

Are you ever bothered by someone who buys your painting for the wrong reason?

I want people to like my work and enjoy it. It would be validating to show in some high-profile galleries and to be part of that

Yes! Most artists would agree we always

conversation. My goal in life and my career is

my painting. I also think it’s very important

Do you collect vinyl?

want our most beautiful paintings to be

to continually grow as a person and as

to surround yourself with other artists and

I wish I did! When I was younger, before

in places where people can see them and

an artist.

talk to them so you can evolve and create

vinyl got popular again, I spent all my money

appreciate them. It’s not my favorite thing

effectively. Look at other people’s art, go to

on CDs. I have hundreds and hundreds of

to hear clients are purchasing a painting to

events, and read books. I hear a lot of friends

CDs. I told my girlfriend when we bought a

match their couch, but I hope the painting is

Will you do this for the rest of your life?

say they don’t want to go to a museum or

house five years ago that I wanted a record

enjoyed just as much as the color scheme.

As of right this second—for sure.

look at other artists’ work because it will

player. She vetoed that idea because she

And, for the most part, I have so many

For more info, visit jamesrandleart.com

hinder their creativity and vision. I think it’s

knows I’m a collector. I would have probably

awesome collectors that have bought so

important to take ideas from everywhere

spent $20,000 on vinyl by now. Instead,

much artwork.

and integrate them somehow into my work.

we’ve started collecting artwork. Whenever

First and foremost, I gain tools by practicing

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opposite page The Ted Shawn Theatre is lit up at night. far left Ted Shawn’s Men Dancers performed choreography inspired by themes like American folk material, work, war, and sports.

jacob’s pillow

the performers’ perspective interview with jaime shannon and kevin clark written by shelley rose

left Ted Shawn, founder of Jacob’s Pillow, bought the farm as a retreat.

© John Lindquist © Harvard Theatre Collection

Choreographers and dancers Jaime Shannon and Kevin Clark wax poetic on their experiences of performing at Jacob’s Pillow, a world-renowned dance center that hosts a summer festival in Becket, Massachussetts in the Berkshires.

© John Lindquist © Harvard Theatre Collection

How would you describe your hometown? And what motivated you to move to New York City, where you both currently reside?

grow and challenge myself. It’s a city filled

Michael Jackson, and I started dancing.

with people who want to push themselves

My parents took a video, and it’s very

and grow and find new ways of connecting.

embarrassing. That’s my first dance memory.

Jaime: My hometown is Milford, Connecticut.

I spent most of my childhood there. I didn’t

What are your earliest dance memories?

leave until I went to college. When I think

J: My family was vacationing in the Bahamas

about the town I grew up in, I remember

together, and one night my parents decided

J: My dance studio, the Lee Lund Studio of

a lovely little Connecticut town. Very nice

we were all going to go listen to the hotel

Dance, became a second home from the

energy, nice people, and a nice environment.

band and we were going to dance. It didn’t

ages of five to eighteen. The emphasis was

I always knew I wanted to come to New

sound fun to my four-year-old brain, and I

on modern dance and theater jazz. After I

York. The arts world is great. Dance was the

was being really stubborn and bratty. They

graduated high school, I was a dance major

main incentive, but my personality in general

took me onto the dance floor, and I started

at Hofstra University, where I studied a lot

likes to be places like the city, where there is

moving; it was like a switch had been

of modern dance and ballet. I then moved

always activity.

flipped. It felt amazing. It felt like joy. It felt

to the city to further pursue concert dance

like home. I refused to get off the dance floor

styles, like modern and contemporary,

Kevin: I’m from Albuquerque, New Mexico,

all night. I knew in that moment nothing

and began working with a lot of different

and I love it there—the spaciousness and

made more sense to me than spending the

choreographers and small companies. Six

nature. Albuquerque is all about the desert

rest of my life trying to feel that good. My

years ago, one of my best friends from

and the mountains, both of which are so

parents signed me up for dance classes

college got involved in swing dancing.

engrained in Mexican and Native American

that fall.

She was classically trained like me, and

I should have known then, but I didn’t.

she stumbled on a flyer for swing dancer

culture. There’s this really lovely sense of

© Christopher Duggan

26 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

How did your dance training

time, or rather no sense of it. The philosophy

K: There’s a yearly festival in my hometown

auditions. She made the team having no

is to do it tomorrow—take it easy and relax.

called the Albuquerque International Balloon

knowledge of swing dancing, but she was

This is really great, except it doesn’t push

Fiesta. It’s a huge event with over five

a great dancer and they trained her. One

people toward ambition. Toward the end

hundred hot air balloons. I was there with

day, she called me up and told me she had

of my time there, I felt like I wasn’t getting

my family when I was about six, and there

to go back to Florida to work at Disney for

much done. New York City is a great place to

was a stage and a band. They were playing

a while, and she asked if I would consider

americanlifestylemag.com | 27

How did you and Jaime meet?

K: Jaime and I met at a party. The hostess put on some music and encouraged me to

below Jaime Shannon and Tony Fraser perform on the Inside/Out stage at Jacob’s Pillow.

swing dance with Jaime, who I had never met. When we realized we both knew swing dance and modern dance, we knew we were destined to work together.

2014) with Jacob’s Pillow come about? Did they approach you?

Did you know about this festival for many years?

J: I’ve known about this festival for years. It’s world famous for modern and contemporary dance. My dance partner, Tony, sent somebody an e-mail along with videos of us performing and said, “Hey, we do this. What do you think? Can we be in your festival?” which is not the process you’re supposed to follow. But Tony doesn’t pay much attention to proper protocol. It was already late in the selection process, but they asked if they could do a phone interview with us. I told them about my ideas of fusing swing dancing into a structure that fits concert dance, and they agreed to give us a shot.

They put us in the festival, and we were a big hit. They reached out to us the next year and asked if we were interested in applying again, and we were accepted for year two.

I found out it’s quite rare to be invited back for the Inside/Out Series because they like

© Jamie Kraus | Jacob’s Pillow Dance

to refresh the series and show something new every year for their audience. So, in year three, I decided to go through the traditional meeting her dance partner, who now needed

doing a swing piece. She asked if I would

choreographed by a student who has since

application process, knowing it was

someone to work with. “You’re light and

help her work on some of the moves they

become a mentor to me. The modernist

unrealistic to be asked back a third time but

bouncy. You’ll be good at this,” she said to

were learning. I eventually caved and began

piece was raw and physical and visceral

wanting them to know I had an interest. We

me. I went to a shag dancing class at Dance

learning to swing dance. And then I really

and so exciting. I signed up for the class and

were ecstatic to be accepted in year three.

Manhattan and met Tony Fraser. After the

fell in love with the dance—I traveled and

was hooked. I got my degree in dance from

class, we talked for hours, and he asked

competed a lot.

the University of New Mexico, with a minor

if I wanted to be his new dance partner. I

in chemistry. I did some work around New

How did you discover modern dance?

Mexico and established a teaching company

K: I was invited to attend a modern

successful considering it’s in Albuquerque.

K: I was dating a girl named Cathy at the

dance rehearsal at the University of New

I then realized it was time to head to New

time who was in show choir, and they were

Mexico, and I watched a piece that was

York City.

couldn’t pass up the opportunity to train with this wonderful teacher and competitor.

28 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

called The Rhythm Project, which was very

What is the Inside/Out series?

THERE ARE SOME THEATERS THAT HOST INDOOR PERFORMANCES AND THEN THERE’S A BIG, BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR STAGE, WHICH IS WHERE THE INSIDE/OUT SERIES HAPPENS.

© Jamie Kraus | Jacob’s Pillow Dance

J: Jacob’s Pillow has several performance series. They have a few different venues— there are some theaters that host indoor performances and then there’s a big, beautiful outdoor stage, which is where the Inside/Out Series happens. You see the

americanlifestylemag.com | 29

below The Ted Shawn Theatre in the 1950s.

“

below The Ted Shawn Theatre in the 2000s.

seen as something historical. You go out,

his passion and his drive, and because he

you do a demonstration, you show people

was so set on moving to New York that he

it looks cute, you make people happy, and

was already making connections. I hadn’t

then that’s it. To me, what I always loved

even really seen him dance, but I told him

about concert dance and contemporary

that night I would be casting him. The fact

dance was the artistry, the motion, and

that he was both a contemporary dancer

the depth that you can incorporate. When

and a swing dancer was solid gold. He’s a

people kept asking me for swing, I wondered

great performer and a very close friend,

how I could take the structure, the emotion,

and I’ll always work with him if he’s always

the inspiration, and the depth that I have in

available to do my work.

modern and contemporary dance and put it into swing because, why not? It’s something

K: Now I’m flattered.

that people aren’t doing, and it’s something

going on in the country. I want to bring

When you are seventy years old and you look back on this experience, what will you remember about performing at Jacob’s Pillow?

some of that raw emotion back into it. I feel

J: I may not remember what dance I did

like it’s my job to take the stuff I learned in

or what song it was, but I’m always going

concert dance and the happy swing dancing

to remember how I felt when I was there,

stuff that people are asking me for and just

standing on that stage and becoming part

mix it together and hope it makes sense.

of the scenery, and giving something back

that I think is important because the whole

© Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival Archives

© Christopher Duggan

reason this music and this dance came about was purely human emotion. It was out of a time of depression and war and so much

Knowing the history of it and knowing what it created and how the entire modern and contemporary dance movement emerged from this festival—it’s very humbling to be on these grounds.

© Cherylynn Tsushima

troupe. In their downtime, they built many of

half-hour pre-performances that are open

What does it feel like to be a part of this festival, where there are so many kindred spirits all together?

to the public on the outdoor stage. It’s a

J: It feels amazing just to step foot on that

tea outdoors to audience members, who

one-time performance for us. We drive up

property. It’s a National Historic Landmark

would pay seventy-five cents for a cup. The

to the Berkshire Hills, do our tech rehearsal

by law because that farm has been around

audience would then be treated to a lecture-

During the Q and A at Jacob’s Pillow, you spoke about the importance of weaving dance styles. Do you still choreograph only contemporary, or is your focus really now on fusing swing and contemporary?

and run-throughs, and then perform around

forever. It was a stop on the Underground

demonstration. It’s a testament to all the

J: I like choreographing both, but right now,

is kind of new, she doesn’t have the worry

K: I will remember standing on the stage

six o’clock at night. We do a Q and A with the

Railroad way before it was ever a training

ways in which these artists had to struggle

most performance opportunities that have

or fear that some of the other groups have

and looking up at the sky in this institution

audience after the performance, and then

ground for dancing. Knowing the history

to make ends meet. There is so much

landed in my lap have been because people

of fitting in with current trends. Even if

for dance, knowing I was there performing

we drive home.

of it and knowing what it created and how

energy and electricity in the air. You can feel

are requesting swing. So I’ve been focusing

more people were doing this, one of Jamie’s

among people who genuinely care about

the entire modern and contemporary dance

the history.

a lot on swing-based shows. Like you said, I

strengths is her fearlessness to do honest

the art. There’s an overwhelming sense

movement emerged from this festival—it’s

like to weave the styles. I don’t want to show

work, even if it goes against acceptable

of rightness.

very humbling to be on these grounds.

a traditional dance step from 1945 and have

trends of the moment. Second, she has a

For more info, visit jacobspillow.org

for choreography?

it look identical. I want to put some of the

mind-set that everything is going to work

trees, the mountains, and the landscape in the background. Every Wednesday through Saturday, the Inside/Out series presents

Do students come to the festival to take classes?

J: They do have a school, and it’s a major

the structures that are still in use at Jacob’s Pillow. To raise money, they would host tea parties, with the dancers serving high

to an environment that created so much

Kevin, what qualities does Jaime possess that make her such a special choreographer?

for the dance world. That comfort, joy, and

K: I think there are three things that I would

my memory.

K: There’s an unspoken knowledge that you

J: For me, it always starts with the

emotion and structure of concert dance into

out—so let’s just get to the art making.

the world apply and audition to get into

are with your family. It’s hard to overstate

movement, not specifically with the dancers.

it. I’m always working to blend them and

The third quality is her ability to approach

the school. There are different three-week

the emotional and historical significance

I’ll have an idea in my head, whether it’s

observe how they work together.

choreography using a very descriptive

sessions, like ballet, contemporary, and

of Jacob’s Pillow. Modern dance was

inspired by an emotion, an event, or a piece

jazz. Students take class all day, probably

popularized by Ted Shawn and his wife Ruth

of music that I just heard. Then I figure out

six to eight hours a day, before the evening

St. Denis when they formed the Denishawn

the movement quality and more specific

performances. The performances are not

Company and bought a retreat in the form

choreography. I always have dancers in mind

just for the students, though; they’re

of a farm called Jacob’s Pillow. After he and

that I want to use. Once I have the cast set, I

also open to the community and the

Ruth split personally and professionally, he

general public.

began pursuing a new dream that began

30 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

it’s something that will never be erased from

pick. First, because the work she’s doing

part of the festival. Students from all over

with a group of men he trained into a dance

exhilaration of being a part of that legacy—

.

language to help dancers comprehend and portray their roles.

mold the movement even more to fit the skill

of swing dancing infused with concert dance, is part of the reason you keep getting invited back to Jacob’s Pillow?

Jaime, what made you choose Kevin, and why do you continue to enjoy working with him?

sets of my dancers.

J: I think so. A lot of times, something like

J: When I met him at that party, I knew

swing dancing is only seen as a novelty. It’s

he was going to be good. I could tell by

americanlifestylemag.com | 31

Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved going to amusement parks. Like many kids, I enjoyed the spectacle of it all: the colors, the flashing lights, the food, and the fun.

As a teenager, I got more daring with my ride choices, frequenting ones that whipped thrill-seekers like me around at dizzying speeds. I had my limits, though: roller coasters were still mostly off limits, as were free-falling rides.

I continued going to amusement parks as an adult. Later, when my soon-to-be wife, Sandra, and I went to Disney World, our favorite ride was an indoor roller coaster.

Maybe I was getting less fearful as I got

sky-high rides and shortcakes

knoebels amusement resort written by matthew brady | photography by knoebels amusement resort

older. Maybe I just wanted to impress her.

My kids have followed in my footsteps— and, in my son Jeff’s case, even beyond them. His first ever amusement park ride was a roller coaster. He was five years old.

Of course, he went on with his mother, while our one-year-old daughter, Laura, and I watched from below.

These are the sort of memories that flooded my mind as I drove to our latest amusement park adventure: Knoebels Amusement Resort, a family-owned park and campgrounds located in a small central Pennsylvania town called Elysburg, which is about a seventy-mile trek north of Harrisburg, the state capital.

Over the years, we’d heard a lot about Knoebels, and what we’d repeatedly heard were rave reviews. Our friends told us stories about how it’s unlike any other amusement park. Now that we were pulling onto Knoebels Road, we were about to find out for ourselves.

I immediately noticed how much ground there is, even before we got near the park.

It made sense because, when John Salter first purchased the land all the way back in 1775, it included 292 acres. In 1828,

32 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

americanlifestylemag.com | 33

the Reverend Henry Hartman Knoebel

almost a perfect day, around 75 degrees

The park also dealt with flooding in 1975,

brought it into his family when he bought

and sunny with a blue sky, and it somehow

1977, 1996, 2004, and 2011, rebuilding and

the plot for $931, and the reverend’s

seemed sunnier here with the tree-lined

recovering each time. Perhaps the biggest

grandson, Henry, led it in the direction of

mountains surrounding the park. In addition

challenge was in 2006, when 90 percent of

amusements—which we would soon

to the Ferris wheel, we were seated near

the park was submerged in upwards of ten

be enjoying.

a blue-and-yellow roller coaster that

feet of water after heavy rains. Remarkably,

featured what looked to be a 90-degree

within three days (and over 11,000 man

As we followed the line of traffic, the

drop (immediately prompting a “no” on my

hours) the park reopened on a limited basis.

expanse of the parking area unfolded

mental checklist), a kids balloon-themed

As you wander through the park today, you

before us. Sandra let out a “Wow” when

ride, and a sky ride taking patrons on a

can see signs marking the various water

she saw the number of vehicles; there had

slow trek up the mountain slope to observe

levels of the floods—and reminding you of

to have been thousands. We were led to

the entire park. Also noteworthy were the

the park’s resilience.

a grassy area to park—without paying, as

dogs—several people had their pooch pals

it turns out; Knoebels doesn’t charge for

with them in the park—as well as the sheer

After our water adventure, Jeff wanted to

parking. Laura said, “I know I’m going to

amount of trees inside the park, which I

try the nearby PowerSurge ride. As he and

like this already,” and we got out to start

figured would provide ample shade on this

I made our way to the front of the line, we

our adventure.

warm day.

took note of a prominent sign that warned

After walking for a few minutes, we entered

My family quickly finished their food, which

personal items that fell from the ride. I

the park area—which was easy because

meant it was time for rides.

knew this one would be fun.

no waiting in long lines at ticket booths

We walked through an entry to the next

And fun it certainly was. We each strapped

or going through turnstiles—and were

section adorned by a wooden Knoebels sign

ourselves into a tight over-the-shoulder

immediately greeted by pavilions with

and saw the Grand Carousel. Our first ride

harness, and off we went. This particular

several covered bench areas for birthday

came with a legacy: handcrafted in 1913,

ride spins you and whips you every which

parties. This immediately gave the park the

Knoebels purchased this carousel a mere

way: one second, you’re looking straight

feel of a local attraction.

ten days before the start of World War

up at the blue sky and the next your entire

II. History notwithstanding, Laura loves

body is facing straight down while falling

As it was around one o’clock, we decided to

carousels, so she and I got in line for the

from fifty feet in the air. Within a minute,

eat first. We quickly found an eatery called

ride. We soon handed over our tickets and

Jeff managed to say, “I’m never going on

Alamo Front Counter. There we stood in

chose horses; her selection turned out to be

this again,” and I smiled.

a short line, and my wife and son decided

a good one, since brass rings are dropped

on burgers and my daughter a chicken

down a chute at one point in the ride, so if

Next on the agenda was a swing ride with

sandwich. While we were waiting to order,

you’re on the outside, you can try to grab

Laura (which resulted in her shouting,

a friendly face at the next counter (the ice

them for fun every time you pass by.

“This is awesome!”), and then my wife and

“

us that the park wasn’t responsible for any

there’s no admission charge, so there is

1913, Knoebels purchased this carousel a mere ten days before the start of World War II.

daughter made a moment by going on

cream counter, it turned out) yelled out, “Is anyone only ordering a pickle on a stick?”

After the carousel, we made a watery

a family roller coaster, Kosmo’s Kurves,

That was exactly what Laura was waiting

pit stop. We passed by the park’s large

together. Though reportedly terrified the

to hear: her primary reason for wanting to

swimming pool and its four water slides,

entire time, Laura was happy to have

go here wasn’t the rides or the games . . .

as well as one of the park’s two log flumes,

tried it.

it was to eat a pickle on a stick. So I darted

Sklooosh. The kids and I ran to the latter’s

into the next line and bought one, and

observation deck to get soaked by the ride’s

We then split up, as the girls went to shop

Laura was in pickle paradise.

tidal wave.

at the Christmas Cottage (which includes, I later found out, a North Pole in front made

As my family devoured their food, I went

As it turns out, though, water hasn’t always

out of real ice) and played games while Jeff

to a nearby ticket booth to buy ride tickets.

been Knoebels’s friend. Tropical Storm

and I got in line for the Flying Turns wooden

I got thirty dollars’ worth of tickets, and

Agnes flooded the park in 1972 by causing

roller coaster. This was the only long line of

then I took in our surroundings. It was

its creeks to rise six feet above their banks.

the day, and we entered at the “45 minutes

34 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

americanlifestylemag.com | 35

from this point” marker. There are signs

which served their purpose when Sandra

To end our visit, we made our way to the

thoughtfully placed throughout the line to

commented to me about what life must

Pioneer Train to tour the grounds. To get

keep guests occupied, including revealing

have been like for the miners doing that job.

there, we crossed yet another bucolic bridge, passed the bumper cars (whose

the history of this coaster. As it turns out, the ride is legendary: opened in 2014, it’s

This led us to the back of the building,

sign said were voted Best in America by

a rebuilt classic coaster from the 1920s.

which houses the Knoebels Museum.

USA Weekend), and got in one final log

But one sign in particular immediately

Want to learn more about the centuries-

flume dousing. The train is a popular ride,

caught my eye: the one declaring that

old Knoebels story? You’ll find it here in

so the line was long (and included some

everyone would be weighed (as there was

a massive wall-length timeline, from that

more chitchat with strangers); however, we

a 400-pound maximum per car) and that

first land exchange in 1775 to the resort’s

were quickly aboard. Along the the mile-

everyone had to hand over anything that

opening in 1926 to the various rides and

and-a-half ride around the park, we went

could fly off, such as hats and glasses.

attractions that have opened since then.

under the popular Twister wooden roller

You’ll also be entertained, as we were,

coaster, through the resort’s wooded areas,

The ride was exactly as billed: the world’s

by the exhibits of old-fashioned carnival

and past its various campgrounds. And,

only wooden bobsled roller coaster. It starts

games, rides, and even a jukebox from

of course, when another train passed by,

off like a typical wooden roller coaster,

Knoebels’ past, and smile at the endless

everyone waved to us, and we waved back.

with the slow, ominous, uphill clanking of

array of antique photos throughout

It’s that kind of place.

the gears over the wood planks. But then it

the museum.

It’s family friendly. Kid friendly. Budget

whips you into a bobsled area, where you’re literally off the tracks—there’s nothing

After Laura went on a nearby ride, we then

friendly. Even pet friendly. It’s just

but the winding curves and your car. You

entered another museum, the Carousel

amazingly, unassumingly friendly. The

then repeat this experience a second, more

Museum, which features over fifty antique

Knoebels family has gone to great lengths

prolonged time before the ride ends. As one

carousel figures and other memorabilia

to create a genuinely pleasant, nostalgia-

of the signs aptly says, it makes you feel

dating back to the late 1800s and early

inducing amusement park experience—with

like you’re flying.

1900s. If you’re a fan of carousels, this is a

really fun rides, games, and attractions

must-stop.

to boot.

eat again (or, in my case, eat for the first

Afterwards, the girls played a few

As we walked back to our vehicle and

time). We walked to the far end of the

nearby games (for as little as a quarter

commenced our two-hour-plus drive, we

park, past several games and shops, to the

each), and we found our way toward the

realized we wanted more. We hadn’t golfed

International Food Court, which offers a

Americana section of the park, which

at the miniature golf course, played laser

With that adventure over, it was time to

host of food options. My family got in the

meat delicious and ample, all packed in

the food being amazing. But the staff is

at the panning river and deliberated

features handcraftsmanship and wares

tag, gone to either of the arcades (a miracle

American food line, where Jeff ordered

a fresh tortilla. Sandra eyed the burrito

also incredibly nice, and even the fellow

whether to pan for some raw materials.

of yesteryear, including a recreated wood

in itself), experienced the 4-D theater or

another burger and Laura opted for chicken

enviously, so I let her have a bite. When we

customers, caught up in the ambience,

For time’s sake, we passed and instead

shingle mill from the 1800s. You can

haunted house, spent time in the pool, or

nuggets. Sandra, not very hungry, got

returned to this same spot later for dinner,

are super friendly as well, with at least a

entered the museum. One actually starts

watch artisans ply their trade; if you’d

seen the bald eagle exhibit; as far as rides,

some fries and gave in to the temptation of

she got a burrito, plus another strawberry

handful starting up mini conversations with

by going through the gift shop, which

like a custom-made wood sign or perhaps

among the ones we didn’t go on were

strawberry shortcake. Her succinct review

shortcake for the family to share. The

me while waiting in lines. That cheerfulness

boasts a plethora of mining-related items

handcrafted iron, you can observe them

the two pirate ships, the Scenic Skyway

of the dessert? “This is so good!”

dishes were that good.

was a microcosm of the overall experience.

to buy, including real rocks and gemstones,

being made. Visit the Lost Logger to

chairlift ride above the park, and other

gemstone-themed jewelry (one of which

purchase an incredible handcrafted wood

roller coasters.

That’s one thing that certainly stood out

Something else stood out at this food

We then began the (mostly) nonride portion

Laura bought), kids’ mining hats, and

product, such as a wood basket, wood

about Knoebels: the food is much better

court, though—Knoebels employees

of our trip, and these unique offerings

other toys.

pumpkin, wood snowman, or life-size wood

This was all right, though, because we were

than usual amusement park fare. For

write messages on the food trays. Ours

certainly help to set apart Knoebels from

animal. (I wasn’t sure how I’d get the wood

already planning next year’s visit to this

example, I had a difficult choice in the

said, “There are 2 things you’ll always

other amusement parks. Across from the

With an amethyst necklace in tow, we

bear home, so I passed.) As impressed as I

hidden gem tucked away in the mountains

Mexican food line. Tacos, an enchilada, or

find at the food court. Smiling faces and

food court is the dual Anthracite Mining

went into the mining museum. It features

was by the skills I witnessed, I was equally

of central Pennsylvania.

a burrito? I opted for the shredded beef

amazing food.” As I was bussing the tray,

Museum/Knoebels History Museum, which

a collection of various antique mining

impressed by the section of 220-year-old

For more info, visit knoebels.com

burrito and was quite happy with my

I quickly concluded that this was 100

offered us a lot of opportunity for learning.

tools and artifacts, as well as black-and-

oak displayed prominently on a mining car

decision. The veggies were fresh and the

percent accurate. I can’t say enough about

Before we entered the museum, we gazed

white photos and life-size exhibits, all of

in the middle of the area.

36 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

americanlifestylemag.com | 37

BIRD’S-EYE VIEW

PHOTOGRAPHY OF REAL ESTATE MASTERWORK SERIES written by l.j. ramos | photography by air views

Newport Center/Fashion Island July 1967

38 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

© Fred Emmert Air Views

Newport Center/Fashion Island July 1970

© Fred Emmert Air Views

Newport Center/Fashion Island December 1979

© Fred Emmert Air Views

A common “What if?” scenario that we’ve

For that reason alone, photos play an

and photography, became the first person

the photos didn’t survive because of

Wilbur Wright—who took meticulous photos

all been asked is: if your home were on fire

extremely important part in our lives,

to use himself as his own subject in 1839.

chemical reactions within the balloon.

of his and his brother’s attempt to be the

and you could only grab one item (assuming

as they have for centuries. Before the

James Wallace Black snapped the oldest

first humans to fly—teamed with L. P.

family and pets were safe), what would it

nineteenth century, however, likenesses

But photography reached new heights—

known aerial photo still in existence two

Bonvillain in France to take the first aerial

be? Some people might say a treasured

were mostly captured through the

literally and figuratively—in the mid-1800s

years later in Boston. Other subsequent

photographs from a plane in 1908; Wright

heirloom. Others would say their phone

painstaking process of posing for paintings.

with the advent of aerial photography. The

means to get such images include attaching

piloted the plane while Bonvillain took the

or their laptop. Many others would say a

That all changed when Frenchman Joseph

first known attempt at capturing a bird’s-

cameras to homing pigeons and kites.

photos. Soon after, aerial photography was

scrapbook, a photo album, or a flash drive.

Nicéphore Niépce took the first photograph

eye view occurred in 1858, when a French

The common thread? Wanting to preserve

in 1826, a snapshot of his back yard. The

photographer named Nadar hopped into a

Since that time, aerial photography

and World War II, as US planes documented

something important or special—especially

first selfie? A Philadelphian named Robert

hot-air balloon with his camera to take an

has been a vital tool across the globe—

enemy locations. In addition, in the 1920s

when it comes to people, places, or events.

Cornelius, who enjoyed tinkering in science

aerial view of French sewers; unfortunately,

especially once planes were invented.

and 1930s, photography pioneers in the

used as a tactical tool in both World War I

americanlifestylemag.com | 39

business also started using it for surveying and mapping purposes. In a very real sense,

“

these photographers were chronicling history—only from thousands of feet in the air.

One industry that has truly taken advantage of this tool is real estate, particularly real estate developers. Think of your favorite mall, entertainment complex, or business

Fred Emmert and Richard Frost dub such photos “masterworks” in their new book series, Real Estate Masterwork Series Half Century Aerial Photography Retrospective, which celebrates the art of real estate development through historical aerial photography.

black-and-white and color photos—from

complex. There’s a good chance its

the bare land of 1953 to the construction

development was documented with aerial

commencing in the mid-1960s to the

photography. It’s the first step of a process

buildings being added to the spectacular

that leads to what can be a years-long

Newport Center/Fashion Island December 2014

project, and it can also help to chronicle the

© Fred Emmert Air Views

shots through 2015 (including a shot that Frost says is “one of the most beautiful pictures of Newport Center/Fashion Island

evolution of the complex over the years.

I have ever seen!”)—is like watching history come alive.

As such, these pioneers were also creating a unique type of photographic art. Fred Emmert and Richard Frost dub

That’s why, in a world that’s becoming

such photos “masterworks” in their new

accustomed to GoPro videos, virtual

book series, Real Estate Masterwork

reality, and drone footage, such aerial

Series Half Century Aerial Photography

photography is to be cherished, as Fred

Retrospective, which celebrates the art

Emmert and Richard Frost are doing with

of real estate development through

their collection. These aerial photographs of

historical aerial photography.

Newport Center/Fashion Island immortalize the achievements of the past, giving us

One such example of these iconic complexes

a visual pushpin of each advancement

is the massive Newport Center/Fashion

along the way and allowing us to see how innovation and daring to dream take flight.

Island development, the first masterwork featured in the Real Estate Masterwork Series. Set on ninety-three acres and located right off the Pacific Coast Highway

Newport Center/Fashion Island December 2006

© Fred Emmert Air Views

Newport Center/Fashion Island August 2016

© Fred Emmert Air Views

Newport Center/Fashion Island October 2016

© Fred Emmert Air Views

For more info, visit realestatemasterworkphotos.com

in beautiful Newport Beach, California, this business, entertainment, and shopping

Boy Scout Jamboree. After the success

the largest Christmas tree in America.)

complex features an upscale open-air

of that event (featuring over 50,000

Since then, both Newport Center and

shopping center that includes high-

scouts and Vice President Richard Nixon),

Fashion Island have transformed, with the

end department stores and over thirty

planning of Newport Center/Fashion Island

former adding several businesses, including

restaurants in the heart of the complex—

began. The Irvine Company commenced

The Irvine Company headquarters; and

all with a spectacular view of the

with design studies in 1956, and it started

the latter having gone through several

Pacific Ocean.

planning and designing Newport Center in

renovations—including a three-year, $100

1961. By 1966, ground was being broken

million facelift starting in 2009.

And it all began with the Boy Scouts.

on Fashion Island (first known as Newport Town Center), which opened a year later, in

All of this progress was documented from

The plot of land that would become

September of 1967, with four department

the very beginning, thanks to over a half-

Newport Center/Fashion Island was part

stores as its cornerstones. (As it grew in

century of aerial photographs, which the

of the 93,000-acre Irvine Ranch, first

popularity, it grew in grandeur: for decades

authors call a “chronological time machine

developed in 1953 to host the International

the complex was also renowned for having

of an untold story.” Seeing the mixture of

40 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

americanlifestylemag.com | 41

“Bridges become frames for looking at the world around us.” — Bruce Jackson Everybody loves a road trip. In fact, every year, Americans travel well over 250 billion vehicle miles per month during summer.

And wherever you may roam, you’ll likely come across a bridge that will help get you to your destination. These structures are what tie our travels together, allowing us to drive from sea to shining sea.

Bridges have been an essential part of America’s infrastructure since the country was founded—and they number over 600,000 today.

One of the most magnificent examples of these monuments of engineering can be found out west. If you’re traveling through Colorado and want a truly unique adventure, then take Route 50 through Cañon City to County Road 3A, where you’ll discover the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park attraction. Situated about an hour south of Colorado City and a little over two hours

ABOVE THE ARKANSAS RIVER

south of Denver, the Royal Gorge Bridge

R O YA L G O R G E B R I D G E

creating the Royal Gorge millions of years

written by matthew brady | photography by eve nagode

yet it’s only approximately fifty feet wide

is the highest suspension bridge in North America. Standing at almost 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River, it encapsulates all that’s great about the American spirit, serving as an example of ingenuity, perseverance, and adventure.

THE BEGINNING “The Royal Gorge was a popular tourist attraction even before the bridge was built in 1929,” says Peggy Gair, human resources and public relations manager for Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Indeed, the Arkansas River, the sixth longest river in the country, started (very gradually) ago; today, the granite-encased gorge is almost 1,000 feet deep and ten miles long, at its base. Because of its location and its propensity for silver and lead, discovered in the mid-to-late 1800s, it became a booming

42 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

americanlifestylemag.com | 43

region and even caused a two-year railroad

“The 5,000-acre Royal Gorge Park was

war over the rights to take passengers

given to Cañon City in 1906 by the US

through the gorge.

Department of the Interior,” Gair adds. “In order to build the bridge, the Cañon City

The popularity of the gorge (also dubbed

Council had to approve it, which they did.

“the Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River”)

Piper hired engineer George Cole, a fellow

as a tourist attraction led to even grander

Texan, who had previously built toll bridges

plans—namely, constructing a bridge

for him, to be the chief engineer and

across the chasm. “Even though it wasn’t

general superintendent for this project.”

a new idea to build a bridge to connect

With both funding and expertise in place,

the 1,000-foot walls of the Royal Gorge,

construction of the bridge started on

money and know-how were always an issue

June 5, 1929. Remarkably, it took under

until the 1920s,” notes Gair. “San Antonio

seven months for about eighty men to

businessman Lon Piper came to visit in

complete the massive structure; even

1928, and he was instantly interested in

more remarkably, there were no deaths or

building a bridge across the Royal Gorge.

even serious injuries from the venture—

Having built a successful toll bridge across

something that Piper and Cole took great

the Rio Grande, Piper thought he could also

pride in. The grand opening was December

erect one here.

8, 1929, and, as Gair notes, “It was popular from that very first day.”

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS At the time it was built in 1929, the

RISING FROM THE ASHES

Royal Gorge Bridge stood as the highest

Such a unique structure does come with

suspension bridge in the world, a

unique challenges, though. According to

distinction it held until 2003. Its bridge

Gair, the bridge is inspected several times

deck stands 956 feet high, which, to put it

a year, and the maintenance is usually to

in perspective, is higher than three Statues

replace some of the bridge’s wood planks.

of Liberty. The bridge is 1,260 feet (about

The bridge was also refurbished in the

a quarter mile) long, and it is eighteen feet

early 1980s: abutments were replaced and

wide. In addition, the Royal Gorge’s main

strengthened, the bridge was repainted,

span is 880 feet, and its towers are 150

and a new wind cable was added.

feet high.

The biggest challenge by far, however, A bridge of this size also needs to

was a wildfire that threatened the very

be fortified for safety and strength.

existence of Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.

According to Gair, there are 2,100 strands

On June 11, 2013, stoked by dry conditions,

of galvanized wire in each cable, and the

the fire started west of the park, jumped

weight of the cables themselves is 300

the Royal Gorge, destroying both sides

tons; in addition, there are another 1,000

of the park, and blazed toward town—

tons of steel in the floor of the bridge. With

getting perilously close to Cañon City. In

all that said, the bridge will support in

all, it burned over 3,100 acres’ worth of

excess of two million pounds.

park, Bureau of Land Management land, and private land—including forty-eight of

44 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Speaking of millions, the cost to build

the fifty-two attractions and buildings at

the bridge in 1929 was $350,000. The

Royal Gorge Park. Thankfully, all 1,200-plus

replacement cost for the bridge today? At

visitors and employees, as well as sixty

least $20 million.

animals, were safely evacuated.

americanlifestylemag.com | 45

After the fire, the Royal Gorge Bridge

new Visitor Center taking place on January

the weather, wait twenty minutes, and it

the bridge,” Gair continues. “Like most

extremely popular adrenaline thrill ride.

where guests can sit by the fireplace and

stood defiantly above the rubble, with only

30, 2014, and the entire park reopening

will change.’”

people, most dogs love it, while some don’t.

Imagine being placed in a harness, being

take in the awesome views of the gorge

about 100 of its 1,292 boards charred and

just in time for Labor Day weekend—a

One dog was so scared, the owners put him

drawn up to a 100-foot tower, and then

and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. You

burned on the south side of the bridge;

mere fourteen months after the fire. What

If you’re daring enough to walk across the

in their baby stroller with their child and

swinging out, free-fall-style, over the Royal

can enjoy some quality food, like burgers,

these were immediately replaced. The park

visitors experience now is an even more

Royal Gorge Bridge, prepare accordingly.

threw a blanket over his head.”

Gorge at 50 miles per hour. The sensation

sandwiches, and salads, at Café 1230—while

didn’t fare so well. With over 90 percent

exciting Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.

Gair says that, depending on how quickly

of diving into a 1,000-foot-deep chasm is a

enjoying a view from 1,230 feet over the

once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Arkansas River. History is incorporated into

of the park razed, the only attractions left

you walk and whether you stop to enjoy

The bridge may be at the center of the

standing were the Royal Rush Skycoaster

THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE TODAY

the gorgeous views of the gorge, it should

park (literally and figuratively), but there’s

and the Plaza Theater and Historical Expo.

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is more

take twenty minutes or less to walk the

also something for everyone at the new

You can also experience more down-to-

the Visitor Center as well: as a reminder of its rebirth, the front of the Visitor Center

Major attractions such as the Aerial Tram,

popular than ever. On average, the park

span of the bridge. And what do you do

and improved Royal Gorge Park. After

earth fun at the park. The Plaza Theater and

has the original milled burned bridge

the Incline Railway, the vintage carousel,

gets over 340,000 visitors per year and has

if you’re suddenly spooked by the sheer

the fire of 2013, the park recreated some

Historical Expo offers a seventeen-minute

planks from the fire of 2013 as part of its

the petting zoo, the Mountain Man Town,

welcomed over twenty-six million visitors

altitude? “People can get a little freaked

old attractions—but also added some

film examining the history of the area,

exterior wall.

the Western Wapiti Wildlife Park, and the

since its opening. It is open 365 days a

out, especially those who suffer from

very exciting new ones. One of the more

including the building of the bridge and the

Visitor Center were all lost. These losses

year, weather permitting, and it’s busiest

vertigo,” Gair admits. “They tend to walk

popular new rides is the Aerial Gondolas,

reconstruction after the fire. You can also

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

impacted the park and its employees, of

during the summer months. Regardless

down the middle of the bridge and won’t go

six eight-seat enclosed Poma cabins that

see artifacts and photos from the original

certainly has come a long way as an

course, but it went far beyond that, also

of the time of year, though, Gair says the

look over the side. We’ve had a few guests

allow you to bask in the breathtaking views

construction of the bridge displayed at the

unforgettable travel experience—from

impacting the economies of Cañon City and

weather almost always cooperates: “This

get out on the bridge and freeze up—they

of the scenery all around you while the cars

Expo. Then take the kids to Tommy Knocker

its historic beginnings, through trials by

all of southern Colorado. So having a quick,

area experiences an average of 300 days or

don’t want to go forward or backward! Our

gently carry you across the Royal Gorge.

Children’s Playland, which features gigantic

fire, to its modern-day attractions for

safe rebuild was imperative to not only the

more of sunshine, so it’s generally beautiful

park rangers are great, though, and they

For more adventurous types, the Royal

two-story climbing structures, crawling

thrill-seekers. As such, North America’s

park but also the entire region.

weather, even in the winter. The wind does

will offer them a ride back across the bridge

Gorge Cloudscraper by ZipRider is for you.

mounds, a fantasy-style carousel, and a

highest suspension bridge stands as an

blow quite often, which makes the bridge

in their golf cart.”

This extremely popular ride is actually

splash pad.

American landmark that not only bridges

With that in mind, demolition began within

sway a little bit (which can add some

a couple of weeks of the disaster. As it

thrills), and there is always a breeze at the

You can even make the trek across the

riders across the gorge about 1,200 feet

The Visitor Center, which sits on the edge

past and present.

had when the bridge was originally built,

center of the bridge. The park rarely closes,

bridge with your favorite pooch. “This park

over the river. The Royal Rush Skycoaster,

of the Royal Gorge, is practically brand new

For more info, visit royalgorgebridge.com

this project took only seven months to

usually for a snowstorm. But even then, we

is dog friendly, so it’s not unusual to see

built in 2003 (and one of the two rides

as well. While there, you can shop at the

complete, with groundbreaking for the

have a saying in Colorado: ‘If you don’t like

dogs on leashes with their humans crossing

that survived the 2013 fire), is another

gift shop or walk out on a massive deck

46 | AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

the highest zip line in America, taking its

a 1,200-foot-wide natural chasm, but also

americanlifestylemag.com | 47