Body Art: Toni H Carné - Isa

Artist: Toni H Carné

Model: Isa

via ToniHCarni

Dance: Babymonster - 2NE1 Mashup

Choreography: Leejung Lee (YGX)

via BLACK CAT 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Fendi Haute Couture Fall Winter 2023/2024

Artistic Director: Kim Jones

via FF Channel

Hooking Up

Back in August 1994, when I was just 18 years old, I stumbled upon a cartoon in the pages of PLAYBOY that left a lasting impression on me. In that moment, I saw myself as the romantic depicted in the cartoon, holding flowers like a caveman, valuing genuine connections and meaningful courtship. On the other hand, I couldn't help but disdain the players who seemed to have "weekend girlfriends" or changed partners as frequently as the "flavor of the week." To me, dating and courtship were about more than just casual hookups; they were about building something deeper and more substantial.

However, as time raced forward, now three decades later, I find myself looking at things from a different perspective. The dating landscape seems to have evolved, and the norm appears to be "hook up first" to test the waters and then see if there's any chemistry worth pursuing further. It's intriguing how societal norms and attitudes can shift over time, shaping our perspectives and altering our views on matters as personal as relationships and romance.

Bill Woodman, PLAYBOY (August 1994)

 

George Grosz

Art Appreciation 

George Grosz, born Georg Ehrenfried Groß in Berlin, Germany, on July 26, 1893, emerged as a pioneering figure in the early 20th-century art world. His artistic evolution took place amidst the whirlwind of Germany's rapidly changing political and social landscape, and his work served as a powerful critique of the society that engulfed him.

In his youth, Grosz displayed a passion for art, attending a weekly drawing class where he meticulously copied Eduard von Grützner's drinking paintings and imagined battle scenes. At the age of 16, he began his formal training at the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts under the teaching of Robert Hermann Sterl and Osmar Schindler. Later, he perfected his skills at the Berlin College of Arts and Crafts, studying under the renowned painter Emil Orlik.

However, Grosz's life took a significant turn when he volunteered for military service in 1914. The experiences of World War I left an indelible mark on him and became a central theme in his art, illustrating the horrors and absurdities of war.

Disenchanted with German nationalism, he altered the spelling of his name to George Grosz, hoping for a more international sound. After the war, he became associated with the Dada movement, a radical art movement born in response to the senseless violence and destruction of World War I. Rejecting conventional norms, Dada artists embraced a playful, nonsensical, and subversive approach to art.

During this period, Grosz's artworks exuded a satirical tone and offered a scathing critique of the Weimar Republic's political and social establishment. His caricatures and grotesque depictions of politicians, along with his biting commentary on societal ills, garnered both admiration and criticism. Many of his works were biting satires, capturing the moral decay and excesses of post-war Germany.

Following the German Revolution, Grosz joined the radical Spartacist League, which later became part of the Communist Party of Germany (KPD). This affiliation led to the publication of a collection of drawings titled "Gott mit uns," a satire on German society, resulting in fines imposed on him.

As the 1920s progressed, Grosz's artistic style transitioned from Dadaism to Neue Sachlichkeit, or New Objectivity, characterized by a sharp and unflinching portrayal of reality. During this phase, Grosz's work evolved to offer a more realistic depiction of society while retaining his critical edge.

However, his unyielding criticism of the German government and society made him a target of the authorities. Labeled a degenerate artist, Grosz decided to emigrate to the United States in 1933, as the Nazis gained power. He later became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1938.

In the United States, Grosz continued his artistic pursuits and even ventured into teaching. He accepted an invitation to teach at the Art Students League of New York and later imparted his knowledge at the Huntington Township Art League and the Des Moines Art Center. One of his pupils was American artist Romare Bearden. 

Throughout his life, Grosz received recognition for his artistic contributions. He was elected as an Associate Academician of the National Academy of Design in 1950 and, a few years later, to the American Academy of Arts and Letters.

Despite his time abroad, Grosz returned to Berlin in 1959. Tragically, his life came to an end due to the effects of a fall down a flight of stairs after a night of drinking.

The legacy of George Grosz endures as a testament to the power of art in questioning, criticizing, and challenging societal norms. Through his sharp wit and unflinching portrayal of social injustices, he exposed the flaws of his time, leaving an indelible impact on the art world. George Grosz remains an icon of political and social satire, reminding us of the vital role of art in shaping public consciousness and driving positive change in society.

Eclipse of the Sun, 1926

Cain or Hitler in Hell, 1944

Republican Automatons, 1920

Ecce homo, 1923

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.heckscher.org/exhibitions/george-groszs-eclipse-of-the-sun-1926/

https://www.guggenheim.org/blogs/findings/george-groszs-satiric-watercolors

Phillip Dixon

Photography Appreciation

Born in Pasadena, California, Phillip Dixon is an internationally acclaimed American fashion photographer, renowned for his unparalleled vision and mastery in capturing the essence of style and beauty. His iconic images grace the pages of esteemed publications such as Playboy, Elle, and Harper's Bazaar.

Dixon's journey into photography is a fascinating tale. After an enlightening acid trip, he had an epiphany – simplicity held great power. 

"What I realized was this: It was easy to be complicated and difficult to be simple. I got down to the simplest form of what I was good at, which I realized was arranging things. So I thought about all the things I could do to get paid for arranging things. I thought, Ah -- Halleluiah! I could arrange things and take a picture of them."

Realizing his talent lay in arranging things, he set out to find ways to monetize this skill through photography. His path began as a delivery boy for a photographer, later evolving into a photo lab technician and eventually leading him to work in pornography.

A turning point in Dixon's career came when Playboy Magazine stumbled upon his pictures of his then-girlfriend and eagerly bought and published them – an unprecedented feat for unsolicited work. Despite this initial success, his tenure at Playboy was short-lived due to creative differences, with Hugh Hefner dismissing Dixon's photography as too abstract.

"[Hugh Hefner] had put a bunch of pictures to illustrate what he didn't want in the magazine anymore... The pictures were by Helmut Newton and me. He called our pictures abstract. And I said to him, 'Come on. You think a girl on her hands and knees with her ass in the air wearing matching lingerie out is reality? Stick it where the sun don't shine Pajama Man!'"

Undeterred, Dixon went on to make his mark in advertising, capturing editorial images for Jimmy'Z. After 15 fruitful years, he decided to take a break and moved to Mexico. However, his career saw a revival in the 1990s when he joined forces with Harper's Bazaar, collaborating with fashion and Hollywood celebrities. 

Beyond fashion, Dixon ventured into architectural and interior photography, showcasing his exceptional understanding of space and light. This expertise even extended to designing his own house in 1993, a realization of his love for nature and his distinct visual approach to light.

"When I designed my house, I realized... I always photographed in nature." He added, "Architects don't understand natural or artificial light. They're mathematical. I'm visual. The house is kind of inside-out."

What sets Dixon's work apart is his ability to infuse fashion photography with a sense of authenticity and naturalness. His style is a reflection of his personal taste, a pursuit of beauty that embraces rawness, desirability, and authenticity in women, rejecting the artificial and exaggerated.

"I have one style, one point of view. Me... A lot about photography is about personal taste. Mine is about what I find beautiful. I like women to look raw, desirable and real. I don’t like them to look like plastic dolls or clowns."

The impact of Phillip Dixon's photography has earned him countless accolades and exhibitions across the globe, cementing his status as a visionary artist. From New York to Paris, his work has graced prestigious galleries, continually captivating audiences with its unique blend of fashion and art, transcending traditional boundaries.

Laetitia Casta, 1997

Brad Pitts, 1993

Daria Pleggenkuhle for Numéro China June/July 2013

Sharon Stone, 1990 

Sources:

https://loeildelaphotographie.com/en/phillip-dixon-between-genius-and-hermit/

https://www.bellazon.com/main/topic/72501-phillip-dixon/

https://www.fashionmodeldirectory.com/photographers/phillip-dixon/

https://models.com/people/phillip-dixon

https://www.lamag.com/theseen/party-house-of-the-month-photographers-phillip-dixon-and-veronique-vials-venice-home/

https://forums.thefashionspot.com/threads/phillip-dixon-photographer.261399/

https://www.traceymattingly.com/news/tracey-mattingly-llc-welcomes-photographer-phillip-dixon

http://wardrobetrendsfashion.com/tag/phillip-dixon/

https://fashioncow.com/2013/05/daria-pleggenkuhle-by-philip-dixon-for-numero-china-junejuly-2013/

Alex Katz

Art Appreciation

Alex Katz, the renowned American figurative artist born on July 24, 1927, in Brooklyn, New York, is celebrated for his unique style and masterful depiction of life through his exceptional paintings and prints. Over the span of more than six decades, he has made a lasting impact on the art world, earning widespread admiration and recognition for his significant contributions to modern art.

His artistic journey began at the Cooper Union in New York, where he studied from 1946 to 1949, followed by a stint at the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in Maine from 1949 to 1950. It was during his time in Maine that he honed his skills as an artist, exploring plein air, figurative, and post-abstract painting.

In a serendipitous moment during a gallery opening in 1957, Alex Katz crossed paths with Ada Del Moro, a biology student at New York University, who would go on to become his muse and eventually his wife. Throughout his career, he created more than 250 portraits of Ada, immortalizing her captivating presence in his art.

During the 1960s, as the Pop Art movement surged in popularity, some saw similarities between Katz's work and the movement's focus on everyday culture. However, Katz maintained his individuality, deliberately avoiding being pigeonholed as a Pop artist. His preference for painting the human form on large canvases, with a distinct aesthetic vision, set him apart from the irony and commercial imagery typically associated with Pop Art.

In addition to his remarkable paintings, Katz left a significant impact in the world of printmaking, producing over 400 print editions using various techniques like lithography, etching, silkscreen, woodcut, and linoleum cut.

One of his notable accomplishments came in 1977 when he created a massive billboard installation above Times Square featuring 23 portrait heads of women, measuring an impressive 247 feet. Moreover, he was commissioned to craft an oil-on-canvas mural at the U.S. Attorney's Building in New York City's Foley Square.

Katz's artistic style is characterized by its boldness, simplicity, and visually striking elements. When asked about his approach to starting a painting, he revealed that he begins with small sketches and seeks to capture the sensation of images and the energy they exude on the canvas. His use of clean lines, flat color planes, and minimalist backgrounds on large-scale canvases fosters a profound sense of intimacy and immediate connection with the viewer.

Black Hat (2010)

4 PM (1959)

The Black Dress (1960)

Blue Umbrella 2 (1972)

Round Hill (1977)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.gazette-drouot.com/en/article/alex-katz-3A-a-painter-focused-on-appearance/25236

https://www.vogue.com/article/alex-katz-gathering-exhibition-guggenheim

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/20/arts/design/alex-katz-guggenheim-museum-painter.html

https://www.washingtonpost.com/arts-entertainment/2022/10/29/alex-katz-guggenheim-retrospective/

https://www.ft.com/content/ba53f8bb-7a1e-407b-bba2-11d33a70b418

https://youtu.be/sVDas_k87v8

Album Cover: The Pogues - Peace and Love

Album Cover

Album: The Pogues - Peace and Love

Released: July 23, 1989

Model: Hugh Cameron

Sleeve Designer: Simon Ryan

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.thisisdig.com/feature/peace-and-love-the-pogues-album/

Cosplay is an Art: Dokomi Anime Expo Comic Con 2023

via mineralblu 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: The Simpsons - Balenciaga

Creative Director: Demna Gvasalia

Premiered on October 2, 2021 during Paris Fashion Week

via Balenciaga

Virtual Reality Salesman

It's fascinating how every technological advancement sparks a desire to integrate it into sexual pleasure. Virtual reality serves as a prime illustration, originally designed to provide viewers with a stereoscopic experience; however, the adult entertainment industry quickly seized the opportunity to offer their clientele the same immersive encounter. 

Roy Raymonde, PLAYBOY (November 1994)

Travel + Leisure: Indonesia by Davide Anzimanni

If you have time to look through some amazing photography, check out Italian filmmaker and photographer Davide Anzimanni's Instagram (@davide.anzimanni). 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Travel + Leisure (@travelandleisure)

 

Hyacinthe Rigaud

Art Appreciation 

Hyacinthe Rigaud, an esteemed French painter during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, is renowned for his remarkable portraits that flawlessly captured the essence and grandeur of his subjects.

Born on July 18, 1659, in Perpignan, France, as Jacint Rigau-Ros i Serra, later known as Hyacinthe Rigaud, he was the son of a tailor and the grandson of painter-gilders from Roussillon. Although initially trained in his father's tailoring workshop, Rigaud sharpened his artistic skills under the guidance of Antoine Ranc in Montpellier and Lyons. His exceptional talent as a painter was widely acknowledged when he won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1682.

In 1682, Rigaud established himself in Paris, where he quickly gained prominence as a distinguished portraitist. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of his subjects attracted the French nobility and royalty. Rigaud's skill in infusing his portraits with grandeur and luxury secured him numerous commissions and solidified his position as the foremost painter of the French court.

Undoubtedly his most famous and monumental work is the iconic portrait titled "Louis XIV in Coronation Robes," completed in 1701. This masterpiece depicts the Sun King in all his majestic splendor, adorned with richly embroidered robes and symbolic accessories. Rigaud's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey the monarch's commanding presence made the portrait an immediate sensation. Not only did this painting immortalize the French monarch, but it also cemented Rigaud's reputation as the leading portraitist of his era.

In 1727, Rigaud was honored as a knight of the Order of Saint Michael. He passed away in Paris in 1743 at the age of 84.

Self-portrait with turban (1698)

Louis XIV of France (1701)

La Menasseuse (1709)

Sources:

Wikipedia

Body Art: Trina Merry - Optical Illusion Body painting

via Trina Merry 

Dance: Soulja Boy Tell'em - Kiss Me Thru The Phone ft. Sammie

Choreography: NAIN

via 1MILLION Dance Studio

Cosplay is an Art: Anime Expo 2023

via Justin Cosplay 

Gino Boccasile

Art Appreciation

Gino Boccasile was an Italian illustrator who work captured the imagination of people around the world. His work encompassed a wide range of subjects, including advertising, fashion, and propaganda.

Born on July 14, 1901, in Bari, Italy, Gino Boccasile displayed an early aptitude to design and completed studies at the fine arts school of his home town. After the death of his father, he moved to Milan, and eventually gained a post at the Mauzan-Morzenti Agency producing posters and illustrating fashion magazines. 

In his 30s, he participated in the Salon des Indépendants, art exhibition in Paris, and opened a publicity agency called ACTA, in Galleria del Corso. He illustrated for several Italian periodicals and designs book covers for publishers Mondadori and Rizzoli. A supporter of Benito Mussolini, Boccasile produced propaganda material for his government.

His involvement in propaganda during World War II propelled Boccasile into he spotlight on an international scale. His artistic skills were sought after by the Italian Fascist regime, and he became one of the leadings propagandists of the time. While controversial, Boccasile's propaganda art undeniably showcased his technical prowess and ability to convey powerful messages through visual means.

As expected, Boccasile faced scrutiny after the war for his involvement with the Fascist regime. In fact, he was imprisoned. Although acquitted, he struggled to find work. He briefly supported himself by doing pornographic sketches. 

He managed to rebuild his career by starting his own agency in Milan where he created memorable illustrations for magazines, publishers, and advertisement agencies.

Anti-American Fascist propaganda poster (1943)

Lugano Suisse Southern Switzerland Schweiz (1939)

Paris Tabou: Revue Mensuelle (1952)

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gino_Boccasile

http://spartacus-educational.com/2WWboccasile.htm

https://conchigliadivenere.wordpress.com/2013/12/20/gino-boccasile-1901-1952-italian/

http://www.posterclassics.com/boccasile-posters1.html

http://www.internationalposter.com/artist-detail.aspx?id=461

http://www.callihan.com/art/vintage/gino-boccasile.html

http://www.pierangelo-boog.com/2013/05/gino-boccasile-great-italian-illustrator.html

http://galleria.thule-italia.com/tag/boccasile/?lang=en#!prettyPhoto

https://www.fondazionepirelli.org/en/activities/stories-from-world-of-pirelli/gino-boccasile-a-great-artist-for-pirelli/

https://www.germannauktionen.ch/en/items/20886-gino-boccasile

"Sex and How to Get It" by Cynthia Heimel

Literature Appreciation

While flipping through an old PLAYBOY magazine, I came across an article by columnist Cynthia Heimel. Actually, I'll be honest, the title "Sex and How to Get It" was what caught my attention. 

The American feminist and humorist writer was known as being the first to have a column in PLAYBOY that focused on women. Heimel's main focus was sexual self-confidence for women and the idea that women enjoy sex.

Born on July 13, 1947, Heimel started writing for an alternative magazine in the late 1960s called Distant Drummer. She then worked for numerous publications including Penthouse Magazine, New York Daily News, The Village Voice, Vogue, and then PLAYBOY.

In her column, "Sex and How to Get It," she shares a conversation with the Editorial Director of Playboy, where she mentions her active sex life. The editorial director suggested Cynthia write about it, but she is hesitant due to potential negative reactions from certain readers, and expresses frustration that woman's magazines, at the time, frowns upon such openness in using explicit language when discussing sex.

"I want to just casually call it fucking, but I can't bring myself to. I would have no problem using it in a women's magazine, but none of those prissy women's magazines would let me."

Cynthia digresses to describe a disappointing experience at a male strip show they attended with a friend. Although she appreciated the male performers for their physique, she found the women's reactions to be off-putting and not genuinely arousing.   

"It was the women who were hideous. Shrieking. No, more like keening. If they had been one decibel higher only a dog could have heard them, but no. It was like being at a Beatles concert in 1965, only louder. Loud enough to split my head open, maybe. But were they turned on? Nope. They were letting off steam... If a stripper touched her on any part of her body, she shied away, which is quite the paradox. Women supposedly screaming in lust were still loath to let strange men grope them." 

She adds how men who go to strip clubs sit quietly with hard-ons, different from women. She explains that men are turned-on easily without knowing who the woman is. She adds that woman, like herself, are turned on more when a man fits their interest.

"The men who go to strip clubs are pretty quiet, sitting there with hard-ons. They really are turned on. They want some lap dancing. They don't much care who the woman is, because those auxiliary sex glands in their eyes take over. Women have to know a guy."

Cynthia anticipates receiving negative letters from readers due to her use of explicit language in her column, recalling a past incident where she received verbal abuse from hostile readers after Playboy Men Columnist Asa Baber shared a fantasy. 

"Once Asa Baber wrote about how I gave him a blow job at a restaurant. I remember reading his column and getting dizzy with shock. At the end he confessed it was a fantasy, but by then it was too late. Many dumb hostile guys didn't read to the end."

Despite concerns, Cynthia reveals her strong sexual desire for her current partner, Andrew. They cherish the intense moments of passion they share, emphasizing that nothing compares to the feeling of being sexually intimate, and she hopes Andrew will be supportive and not say anything hurtful or foolish regarding her openness about their sex life.

Source: 

Wikipedia

Heimel, Cynthia. "Sex and How to Get It." PLAYBOY, vol. 43, no. 1, January 1996, p. 33.

Andrew Wyeth

Art Appreciation

Considered one of the most significant American artists of the 20th century, Andrew Wyeth is known for his realistic and expressive depiction of rural American life. 

Born on July 12, 1917, in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, Wyeth was the youngest of five children of illustrator and artist Newell Covers Wyeth and Carolyn Bockius Wyeth. He began drawing and was a draftsman before he could read. Andrew began painting at a young age and studied under America's popular illustrator Howard Pyle. 

Like his father, Andrew appreciated intellectuals such poet Robert Frost and writer Henry David Thoreau -- two who would have influence in his paintings. Additionally, silent-films with orchestra added to his artistic sensitivity, such as King Vidor's The Big Parade (1925). 

One of Wyeth's most famous works is Christina's World, painted in 1948. The painting features a young woman, Christina Olson, who he met through his wife, Betsey James, gazing out over a field towards a weathered farmhouse. It depicts Christina's isolation and struggle navigating the landscape, making it an iconic representation of American rural life.

Wyeth continued to paint throughout his life, often returning to the same subjects and landscapes for inspiration. His works are known for their emotional depth and evocative power, and his attention to detail and mastery of the medium have made him a celebrated figure in the world of art.

In 1963, Wyeth received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President John F. Kennedy, the first artist to ever receive such honor. President George W. Bush honored Wyeth with the National Medal of Arts in 2007.

Christina's World (1948)

Winter Carnival (1985), Chadd Fords, Pennsylvania

Day Dream (1980)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.wikiart.org/en/andrew-wyeth

https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2020/04/28/betsy-wyeth-wife-and-collaborator-to-andrew-wyeth-has-died-aged-98

https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2009/jan/19/andrew-wyeth-obituary

Boris Grigoriev

Art Appreciation

A prominent painter, graphic artist, and writer, born on July 11, 1886 in Rybinsk, 166 miles north northeast of Moscow, is known for his stunning portrayals of the poverty and strength of rural Russia. His works provide a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Russians, revealing their struggles, joys, and the essence of their collective spirits.

Grigoriev began his artistic journey in 1906 at the Stroganov School of Art and Industry in Moscow, studying under the artist Dmitry Shcherbinovsky. A few years later, he held his first exhibition at the Union of Impressionists, citing Paul Cézanne, Vincent Van Gogh, and André Derain as his influences.

In 1913, Grigoriev continued his studies at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, where he learned from painters Alexander Kiselyov, Dmitry Kardovsky, and Abram Arkhipov. Immersed in the bohemian scene, he mingled with other artists and intellectuals of the time, including Sergey Sudeykin, Velimir Khlebnikov, Anna Akhmatova, Sergei Diaghilev, Konstantin Somov, and Leon Bakst.

Grigoriev gained recognition for his series of paintings and graphic works depicting rural Russia before the revolutionary upheaval of 1917. Despite his art having no political motivations, his Russia series was misunderstood as a denouncement of Russia, prompting him to emigrate to France. His artwork remained locked away until 1989 when the Pskov National Museum of History, Architecture & Art exhibited his work.

Throughout his life, Grigoriev traveled and lived in various countries, including France, Finland, Germany, Central and South Americas, and the United States. During his time in Chile, he taught at the Academy of Arts in Santiago and his artwork had a profound influence on Chilean avant-garde art.

Grigoriev's artistic style is characterized by vivid colors, dynamic brushstrokes, and a deep sense of empathy for his subjects. His paintings often depicted peasants, workers, and villagers, capturing their raw emotions and the harsh realities they faced. Through keen observation and masterful technique, Grigoriev infused his works with a profound humanistic quality that resonated with viewers worldwide.

Self-portrait, 1916

Peasants in the Field, 1920

Motherhood, c. 1926

Russian Peasant Girl, 1924

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.russianartandculture.com/roseberys-london-an-early-gouache-by-boris-grigoriev-discovered/

https://artvee.com/dl/russian-peasant-girl/

https://www.christies.com/features/An-introduction-to-Russian-artist-Boris-Grigoriev-9919-1.aspx

Giorgio de Chirico

Art Appreciation 

Giorgio de Chirico was an Italian artist who played a major role in the development of the scuola metafisica art movement, which profoundly influenced surrealists. He is known for his unique style of painting, which combined classical architecture with mysterious, dreamlike imagery.

Born on July 10, 1888 in Volos, Greece, de Chirico studied drawing and painting at Athens Polytechnic. After his father Evaristo de Chirico's death in 1905, the family relocated to Germany. There de Chirico entered the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich.

It was in Munich that de Chirico first became interested in the classical architecture that would later become a central element of his work. In 1909, he moved to Florence, where he began experimenting with a new style of painting that would later be called scuola metafisica, "metaphysical art."

Many of his paintings featured empty cityscapes or abandoned interiors, with shadows and light creating a mysterious, dreamlike atmosphere. His metaphysical paintings resonated with Surrealists who wanted to tap into the irrational and the mysterious.  

Nude Self-Portrait (1945)

The Song of Love (1914)

The Disquieting Muse (1925)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.finestresullarte.info/en/ab-art-base/giorgio-de-chirico-metaphysical-painting-life-works

Riley Reid

Acting Appreciation

It's probably her 5'4" natural petite and green eyes that initially caught my attention. A mix of Dutch, Irish, Welsh, German, and Puerto Rican probably helps too. But its really Riley Reid's incredible personality on and off the screen; check out her YouTube channel (@RileyReidx3) and interviews with Manuel Ferrara and No Jumper podcast and you'll agree.

Born in Miami, Florida on July 9, 1991, Riley Reid (real name Ashley Mathews) entered the adult entertainment industry at the age of 19. She did, however, attend Florida International University, but financial troubles took her on a different path. She briefly worked as an exotic dancer.

Since entering the industry, she has landed high-profile roles. Her first performance was in 2012 in Vivid Entertainment's Brand New Faces 36. She would then win XBIZ awards for Best New Scarlet and Female Performer of the Year. In 2014, she won her first AVN Award for her first interracial performance in Mandingo Massacre 6.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.pornhub.com/pornstar/riley-reid

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4764491/bio?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm

https://www.instagram.com/letrileylive/

https://www.hometownnudes.com/atk-galleria/riley-reid-by-bmbwanton-photography-86121.html 

https://www.biographydiary.com/riley-reid/

Album Cover: The Go-Go's - Beauty and the Beat

Album Cover

Album: The Go-Go's - Beauty and the Beat

Released: July 8, 1981

Art Direction: Ginger Canzoneri, Mike Doud, Mick Haggerty, Vartan

Photographer: George DuBose, Mick Haggerty, Cindy Marsh

Models: Belinda Carlisle, Charlotte Caffey, Gina Schock, Kathy Valentine, Jane Wiedlin

Source: 

Wikipedia

https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/the-100-greatest-album-covers/

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: The Dior Cruise 2024 Show

Creative Director: Maria Grazia Chiuri

via Christian Dior

Frida Kahlo

Art Appreciation

For approximately 15 years, I have been blogging about art, yet it has taken me this long to write about one of Mexico's most renowned artists, Frida Kahlo. Perhaps I was intimidated by the weight of her history and creations, fearing that I might overlook or misinterpret something. But finally, here we go.

Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón was born on July 6, 1907, in Mexico City's Coyoacán neighborhood. Her home, known as La Casa Azul, now stands as a historic house museum and art museum dedicated to the life and work of Frida Kahlo.

Art had intrigued Frida from a young age, and she received drawing lessons from printmaker Fernando Fernández. This eventually led to her becoming a paid apprentice in engraving under Fernández's guidance.

At the age of 18, Frida experienced a bus accident that confined her to bed for three months. This incident, combined with her early polio-induced disability, resulted in lifelong pain and medical challenges for the artist.

To enable her to paint while bedridden, Frida was provided with a specially-made easel that allowed her to create self-portraits by placing a mirror above it. In her early paintings, she drew inspiration from Renaissance masters like Sandro Botticelli.  

In late 1927, Frida began socializing with old friends and became involved in student politics, which ultimately led to her joining the Mexican Communist Party. Through this affiliation, she found herself mingling with political activists and artists such as Tina Modotti and Diego Rivera, who would then become her husband.

Diego and Frida became a power couple of the art world, attracting constant media attention in Mexico and beyond. Their passionate and tumultuous love affair was characterized by a volatile mix of love, jealousy, and artistic collaboration.

During her time in Cuernavaca with Diego, Frida underwent a shift in her artistic style, drawing inspiration from Mexican folk art, her own Mexican identity, and a profound interest in the country's culture. When she traveled to San Francisco in 1930, she carried this new style with her and encountered American artists such as Edward Weston, Dora Maar,  Carl Van Vechten, Ralph Stackpole, and others.

Following Diego to Detroit, Frida explored different techniques, including etching and frescos. It was during this period that her paintings began to exhibit a more pronounced narrative style. Her art became a cathartic outlet, allowing her to express both physical and emotional anguish.

The early 1930s marked a period of intense ups and downs in Frida's relationship with Diego upon their return to Mexico. Despite their frequent separations and infidelities, their bond remained unbreakable, with each artist influencing the other's creative endeavors. In 1937 and 1938, Frida experienced tremendous productivity in her artistic career.

In 1938, the National Autonomous University of Mexico showcased some of Frida's paintings, capturing the attention of art collector Edward G. Robinson and surrealist artist André Breton. They arranged for her first exhibition at the Julien Levy Gallery in New York City that same year. A year later, another exhibition took place in Paris, where the Louvre purchased Frida's painting "The Frame," making her the first Mexican artist to be featured in their collection.

Frida's work continued to generate interest and was displayed in prestigious exhibitions in the United States, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Peggy Guggenheim's gallery, The Art of This Century. She also gained recognition in her home country of Mexico.

In 1942, Frida became a founding member of the Seminario de Cultura Mexicana, a group of artists commissioned to promote public knowledge of Mexican culture. The following year, she began teaching art at the nationalistic Escuela Nacional de Pintura, Escultura y Grabado, holding her class at La Casa Azul due to her mobility issues.

Frida faced significant challenges due to her declining health, yet she continued to create extraordinary work. Her final solo exhibition took place at the Galería Arte Contemporaneo in Mexico City in 1953, captivating audiences with her vibrant colors, intricate symbols, and raw emotions that spoke of her experiences.

Her last paintings, completed before her death in 1954, included notable pieces such as "Marxism Will Give Health to the Sick," "Frida and Stalin," and "Viva La Vida."

Frida's artistic contributions have been internationally celebrated as emblematic of Mexican national and indigenous culture. Her art serves as a reminder of the transformative power of self-expression and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. She has emerged as a powerful symbol of feminism and LGBTQ rights. Her legacy continues to ignite conversations and inspire movements advocating for gender equality and LGBTQ rights.

The Frame (c. 1930s)

The Broken Column (1944)

Marxism Will Give Health to the Sick (1954)

Viva la Vida (1954)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.fkahlo.com/

https://www.moma.org/artists/2963

https://www.fridakahlo.org/self-portrait-the-frame.jsp

http://arthistoryarchive.com/arthistory/surrealism/Frida-Kahlo.html

Hedi Slimane

Photography Appreciation 

Born on July 5, 1968 in Paris, France, Hedi Slimane is a multi-talented photographer, artist, and fashion designer. He is best known for his minimalist, rock and roll-inspired aesthetic and his ability to rejuvenate and modernize the brands he works with. 

He grew up in fashion, shopping and sewing fabric with his mother. Then at the age of 11, he received his first camera and learned black and white darkroom printing. In 1992, he graduated with an art history degree from the École du Louvre and completed a tailor apprenticeship with French fashion consultant Jean-Jacques Picart. Picart introduced Slimane to Pierre Bergé, who was searching for a men's wear designer for Yves Saint Laurent (YSL).

In 1996, Slimane began his fashion career at YSL and became the artistic director of its menswear line, where he helped to redefine the look of men's fashion and was credited with popularizing the skinny suit. 

Slimane then went on to work as a creative director for Dior Homme from 2000 to 2007 where he modernized the brand's aesthetic and helped to establish it as a major player in the luxury fashion world. While at Dior, he launched a new men's fragrance called "Higher." He also created stage wear for The Libertines, Mick Jagger, Beck, Jack White, and others. 

During his time at Dior Homme, he pursued photography, and published several books of photographs.  In 2007, Slimane did not renew his contract with Dior Homme. He moved to Los Angeles to concentrate on portrait photography. He has had solo exhibitions of his work in galleries around the world. His photographs focus on youth culture and subcultures, and have been praised for their raw, naturalistic style.

Slimane returned to YSL, now Saint Laurent, in 2012 as creative director. He based his creative studio in Los Angeles rather than the its headquarters in Paris. In 2018, he became the creative, artistic, and image director of Céline. Slimane has dropped the French accent for Céline, making it Celine.

Keith Richards, Los Angeles, March 2013

Frances Bean Cobain (c. 2011)

Courtney Love with veil, London, 2009

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.crash.fr/hedi-slimane-on-photography/

www.hedislimane.com/diary

https://www.businessoffashion.com/community/people/hedi-slimane

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Slimane-Hedi

https://www.ft.com/content/807d8a2a-3cc1-11e4-9733-00144feabdc0

http://www.fashiontography.net/2011/08/frances-bean-cobain-by-hedi-slimane.html

https://mymodernmet.com/kurt-cobain-daughter/

Happy Fourth!

 

Yoga: Boho Beautiful Yoga - Easy Yoga for Beginners

via Boho Beautiful Yoga 

Mia Malkova

Acting Appreciation

Born Melissa Ann Hevner on July 1, 1992 in Palm Springs, California, Mia Malkova is an American adult entertainment actress known for her stunning beauty, and flexibility. The flexibility is what caught my attention. Malkova can contort herself, allowing for deep penetration in awkward positions. 

From a young age, she was intrigued by the entertainment industry. Her friend, Natasha Malkova, introduced her to the adult film industry. Plus, her brother, Justin Hunt, was an adult film actor.

After working in food service, the 5'7" beauty performed in her first adult film. She would go on to be Twistys Treat of the Month in December 2012 and Twistys Treat of the Year in 2013.

With her gorgeous figure and playful personality, she became one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry. She is known for her impressive versatility and is equally adept at performing in hardcore and softcore scenes. 

Her performances are known for being passionate and erotic, and she has a large following of fans who appreciate her work. She's won several awards for her performances, including the XBIZ Award for Best New Starlet in 2014 and the AVN Award for Best New Starlet in 2015.

When I went to the 2017 AVN Awards red carpet event, I remember seeing her and Danny Mountain, her husband. They both looked incredible and sexy. Unfortunately, they separated soon after. 

In the 2018 documentary film God, Sex and Truth, she stated that she got into porn because she loves sex and the porn world is the safest and best place to explore sex. 

In addition to her work in the adult entertainment industry, Mia Malkova is also known for her activism and philanthropy. She has used her platform to raise awareness about various social and political issues, such as LGBTQ rights, women's health, and animal welfare. She is also involved in several charitable organizations, working to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

Sources:

Wikipedia

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