Jeanloup Sieff

Photography Appreciation

Born in Paris on November 30, 1933, Jeanloup Sieff achieved fame for his distinctive black-and-white portraits, characterized by a captivating blend of sensuality, sophistication, and a subtle touch of humor.

Embarking on his photographic journey in the 1950s, Sieff's passion for the art led him to pursue studies at the renowned École des Beaux-Arts and later at the École Supérieure d’arts appliqués in Vevey, Switzerland.

Initially working as a freelance photojournalist, Sieff transitioned to contributing to major fashion magazines such as Elle, Vogue, and Harper's Bazaar. His formative years were profoundly shaped by encounters with the works of photography luminaries like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Capa, influencing the development of his distinctive perspective.

Among Sieff's most celebrated pieces is the iconic photograph of Yves Saint Laurent, the legendary fashion designer. This image showcases one of Sieff's signature techniques—the masterful use of light and shadow, capturing the human form in its most natural and elegant state, resulting in a composition of striking beauty.

Yves Saint Laurent, YSL Pour Homme (1971)

Twiggy, ELLE (1966)

Ina Balke and Alfred Hitchcock, Hollywood, Harper’s Bazaar, 1963 (1962)

Untitled (1995)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.artsy.net/artwork/jeanloup-sieff-twiggy-fashion-lison-pour-refdress-paris-elle

https://www.modernamuseet.se/stockholm/en/exhibitions/jeanloup-sieff/photographic-formations/

https://www.blind-magazine.com/news/jeanloup-sieff-a-photographic-journey-in-the-death-valley/

https://artblart.com/tag/jeanloup-sieff-ballet-paris-opera/

https://www.thecut.com/2012/09/18-vintage-fashion-images-by-jeanloup-sieff.html

https://arthur.io/art/jeanloup-sieff

https://www.kooness.com/artists/art-for-sale-best-artist-jeanloup-sieff

Drag = Groomers. The Right's Best Defense for Their Own Sexual Insecurities

Excuse the Interruption

The conservative right is swift to vilify a small community engaging in drag as part of their lifestyle. Drag, for those unfamiliar, involves male performers dressing in women's clothing, adorned with elaborate makeup, and accentuating femininity for entertainment. The concern among conservatives arises when such performances "encroach" into their communities, specifically public spaces like parks or libraries. This notion is particularly alarming for the conservative right, possibly uncomfortable with their own sexuality. Instead of delving into the reasons for their feelings of unease, especially regarding their sexuality, they often employ children as a defensive focal point.

By Adam Ellis @adamtots

Mary Elizabeth Winstead

Acting Appreciation 

If you share my love for Sci-Fi, horror, and comedy films, chances are you're familiar with the incredibly versatile and talented Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Born on November 28, 1984, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Winstead initially aspired to be a ballerina during her early years. Fortunately for us, her height led her to pivot towards acting.

Her journey began in 1997 with guest roles in the CBS TV drama series "Touched by an Angel" and "Promise Land." Winstead's breakout came when she landed the role of Jessica Bennett in the NBC soap opera "Passions" from 1999 to 2000. Subsequently, she graced the big screen in notable films like "The Ring Two" (2005), "Sky High" (2005), "Final Destination 3" (2006), "Black Christmas" (2006), and "Live Free or Die Hard" (2007).

In 2010, Winstead shared the screen with Michael Cera in "Scott Pilgrim vs. The World," portraying the character Ramona Flowers. Her diverse roles continued with the action horror film "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" (2012), where she played Mary Todd Lincoln. She reprised her role as Lucy Gennero-McClane in "A Good Day to Die Hard" (2013) and delivered a standout performance in "10 Cloverfield Lane" (2016).

Adding to her impressive resume, Winstead recently joined the cast of the Disney+ series "Ahsoka," taking on the role of Twi'lek Hera Syndulla.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrities/mary-elizabeth-winstead/

https://cloverfield.fandom.com/wiki/Mary_Elizabeth_Winstead

https://www.maxim.com/women/mary-elizabeth-winstead-sexy-photo-shoot-2016-9/

https://www.wikifeet.com/mary_elizabeth_winstead

https://offcamera.com/issues/mary-elizabeth-winstead/watch/

OneRepublic - Stop and Stare

Music Appreciation

OneRepublic's "Stop and Stare" is the second single from their debut studio album, Dreaming Out Loud, which was released on November 27, 2007. This captivating and emotionally charged track embarks on an introspective journey delving into self-doubt, regrets, and the sensation of being stuck in a moment, unable to progress. In an interview with the Huffington Post, lead vocalist Ryan Tedder candidly revealed, "We, as a band, were on tour, and we had a conversation and said, if 'Stop and Stare' doesn't connect, we're done."

Ryan Tedder's powerful and emotive vocal delivery bears the emotional weight of the lyrics, rendering the song a profound and relatable experience for those who have grappled with pivotal crossroads in life. The song's melancholic melody, coupled with Tedder's raw vulnerability, weaves an atmosphere of introspection that deeply resonates with its audience. Accompanying the song is a striking music video directed by Anthony Mandler, shot at an old gas station and motel in the Palmdale desert of California. The video features Tedder in various scenes, ranging from a eulogy to a motel room, driving a pregnant woman, and even running over another version of himself, enhancing the song's visual storytelling.

via OneRepublic

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/caroline-frost/ryan-tedder-onerepublic-interview-oh-my-my-kids_b_13105222.html

Dance: Tate McRae - Greedy

Choreography: Kelly Sweeney

via Kelly Sweeney

Cosplay is an Art: DRAGONCON 2023 Atlanta

via mineralblu 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Gucci Ancora Fashion Show

Creative Director: Sabato de Sarno

via Gucci

Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Shangela

Acting Appreciation

Recently, Texas enacted a law placing restrictions on public drag performances, reflecting an ongoing struggle in the state. Certain right-wing conservatives express discomfort, attributing their sexual insecurities to performers in elaborate makeup. The further one ventures into rural areas, the more apprehensive conservatives become about the perceived influence of drag on themselves and their children.

A few years back, I came across Out North Texas magazine, featuring drag queen Shangela as the cover star. For those unfamiliar, Shangela is a drag queen, reality TV personality, and actor hailing from Texas.

Born on November 22, 1981, in Lamar County, Texas, Chataize Darius Jeremy (DJ) Pierce grew up in a conservative environment. Nevertheless, DJ embraced drag during high school.

After high school, DJ pursued a degree in corporate communications at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. Landing a job at TGI Fridays headquarters in Dallas, a Halloween party changed the course of DJ's life. Impersonating Michael Jackson she caught the attention of the CEO, leading to encouragement to move to Los Angeles and work at Pick Up Stix.

In 2009, Shangela Laquifa Wadley emerged as DJ's drag persona, choreographing a three-person drag act in L.A. Soon after, Shangela joined the cast for season two of RuPaul's Drag Race. Despite being the first queen eliminated, her popularity led to a return in the following season and guest appearances in season 4.

Shangela's talent extended beyond drag race, with appearances in TV series like Community, The Soup, 2 Broke Girls, Glee, and Bones. She also featured in HBO's reality TV series "We're Here," documenting drag queens recruiting small-town residents for one-night-only drag shows—a world Shangela intimately knows, hailing from rural Texas.

When asked if Shangela carries Texas Pride wherever she goes, she told Out North Texas, "Texas is home to me, no matter where I go throughout the world. My family roots are here in Paris... I think people have their stereotypes of Texas -- especially small towns: Southern, white, conservative. And they nailed it! But there is so much more, and I try to represent the warmth and hospitality and diversity of what Texas has."

Sources:

Wikipedia

Lopez, Rich. "Shangela Is Here with All Her Texas Pride." Out North Texas, 2022, pp. 36-38.

https://inmagazine.ca/2018/03/halleloo-evolution-shangela/

https://www.texasobserver.org/texas-drag-queen-shangela-were-here-hbo/

https://www.fastcompany.com/90493549/inside-the-hustle-and-grit-of-drag-superstar-shangelas-rise-to-hollywood

Skip the Fries

I always enjoy finding Sneyd drawings. Not only does Sneyd draw the best breast but he does a damn good job with legs too. 

Doug Sneyd, PLAYBOY 

Body Art: Cheryl Ann Lipstreu - Angela Reign

Artist: Cheryl Ann Lipstreu

Model: Angela Reign

via World of Bodypainting

Abella Danger

Acting Appreciation

Born as Rosa Luisa Cruz on November 19, 1995, in Miami, Florida, Abella Danger has cemented her status as a renowned actress in the adult entertainment world. With a strong foundation in ballet from a young age, this 5'4" Jewish-Ukrainian starlet entered the adult film industry in 2013 with a debut scene for BangBros. She swiftly rose to prominence, collaborating with top production companies including Evil Angel, New Sensations, Digital Sin, and Bang Productions. Abella also appeared on adult websites such as Mofos, Reality Kings, and Naughty America.

Beyond her remarkable adult film portfolio, Abella is celebrated for her vibrant personality and a substantial presence on social media. She is not only an entertainer but also a committed activist, championing the rights and well-being of performers. In a 2023 Full Send podcast, Abella revealed her decision to retire from the adult industry during the pandemic, enrolling in Miami Dade College with aspirations to join the University of Miami and pursue a career in gender discrimination law.

Despite stepping away from the adult entertainment scene, Abella remains active in creating content on OnlyFans.

Sources:

Wikipedia

Boobpedia

commons.wikimedia.org

indexxx.com

babesdirectory.online

babepedia.com

ogglebooble.com

https://evelynclaire.me/bella-thorne-abella-danger-video-censored/

https://www.youtube.com/@FULLSENDPODCAST

Cosplay is an Art: ACME Comic Con Scotland 2023

via Tachyon Cosplay 

Vampire Weekend - Cousins

Music Appreciation

Released on November 17, 2009, Cousins is the first single from Vampire Weekend's second album Contra. Written by lead vocalist Ezra Koenig, the song explores themes of family and the importance of staying connected as one is exploring the world. 

The music video, which was directed by Garth Jennings, features the band members performing in an alleyway. At the end of the alley is a blue bulls-eye on canvas. Ezra and the other band members take turns being pushed and pulled on a dolly track. Confetti rains down on them towards the end of the song.

Sources:

Wikipedia

A Great Way to Thank a Gunslinger

Buck Brown's cartoons excel at conveying engaging narratives, and in this specific cartoon, the women of the town express their gratitude to the gunslinger in a way that underscores the essence of their appreciation -- through sex.

Buck Brown, PLAYBOY (November 1992)

Travel + Leisure: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

The cool thing about Travel + Leisure is that the magazine offers clips to save. I often wonder about the individuals who curate these interesting snippets, like the one I found in the April 2023 edition.

This particular clip sheds light on a fantastic initiative at Gatwick Airport in England, offering support to passengers with non-visible disabilities such as dementia and emphysema. What began as a small idea has now evolved into the "Hidden Disabilities Sunflower" initiative, embraced by over 180 airports and five airlines across 26 countries.

It's personally satisfying to note that numerous Texas airports have adopted this service for individuals dealing with these concealed disabilities. For more information, you can visit their website: https://hdsunflower.com/us/insights/post/airports-around-the-world.

Source: 

Travel + Leisure, April 2023. 

Safety First

I've never had the desire to have sex in the forest. The closest thing I've reached to coitus has been at the beach. I think what's held me back from forest sex is the critters and bugs and the fact that grass irritates my skin. Needless to say, mentally, I'd be preoccupied to even find it pleasurable.  

Alden Erikson, PLAYBOY (May 1996)

Body Art: JohnBorn - Clarity

Artist: JohnBorn

Model: Clarity

via JohnBorn 

Nina Brosh

Acting Appreciation 

Israeli model and actress Nina Brosh was born in Ramat Yishai, Israel on November 12, 1975. 

She was discovered while sleeping on a park bench in Tel-Aviv by a photographer. The 5'8" blonde became a model under the name Vic. She moved to New York City and later to Paris appearing on runways and magazines. 

During the 90s, she modeled for brands such as Alfani, Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, Evian water, Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Dior, Nordstrom, DKNY, Bebe, and Miu Miu. She appeared in Vogue and Elle.

She would then appear in films such as Hollywood Salome (1998) and the Duran Duran music video Femme Fatale.

Source:

Wikipedia

listal.com/nina-brosh

fashionmodeldirectory.com/models/Nina_Brosh

imdb.com/name/nm0112462/bio

https://iconicfocus.com/portfolio/nina-brosh/

Cosplay is an Art: GEM City Comic Con 2023 Dayton, Ohio

via ModernAnimator 

Emily Austin

Acting Appreciation 

In my humble opinion, Texas has some of the best and beautiful actresses in the adult entertainment industry, like Alexis Texas and Jesse Jane, and Jessica Drake. One that seems to be overlooked is Emily Austin, a 5'2" blonde and brown eye from Dallas, Texas. 

Born on November 10, 1989, Emily Austin began as a waitress and then a dancer at Rick's Cabaret in north Austin, before moving to Las Vegas to start her modeling career. She explains in a Captain Jack interview, it was a text from her husband that led her into the porn industry, "I was dancing at Sapphire in Vegas and I was sitting at the bar and I got a text from my husband, ‘Hey, what do you think about being in porn?’"

In 2013, she appeared in her first scene in Exploited College Girls (ExCoGi), "My first scene was kind of nerve wracking. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into. I didn’t really know much about the industry so I just kind of did what everybody wanted me to do. My first scene was actually the first and only time you’ll see me do anal. I did anal my very first scene."

During her years doing porn, she worked with Hustler, Penthouse, and Bang Production, and has over 75 credits to her name. She has been recognized with numerous nominations for multiple awards. She retired from porn in 2021.

Sources:

Pornhub

indexxx

thenude

babepedia

https://interviews.adultdvdtalk.com/emily-austin/

https://www.barelist.com/interviews/interview_436_Emily_Austin_Interview_For_Barelist.html

Hedy Lamarr

Acting Appreciation

Hedy Lamarr, originally born as Hedwig Eva Maria Kiesler on November 9, 1914, embodied a multifaceted identity as an Austrian-born Austro-Hungarian-American actress and a groundbreaking technologist.

Her passion for acting ignited early in her life, as she held a deep fascination for theatre and film, but her curiosity extended beyond the world of entertainment to encompass technology's inner workings.

At the age of 16, Lamarr made her debut in the film industry, starting as an extra in Money on the Street (1930) and Storm in a Water Glass (1931). Her breakthrough came in 1933 when she took the lead in Gustav Machatý's daring film Ecstasy, portraying the neglected young wife of an indifferent older man. This role catapulted her to fame as one of the era's most enchanting and iconic actresses.

After a brief stint in Czechoslovakia, Lamarr relocated to Paris, and a chance meeting with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studio head Louis B. Mayer in London led to a Hollywood movie contract. Her mesmerizing beauty and acting prowess made her a star during the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Over her career, Lamarr graced over 30 films, showcasing her remarkable versatility and captivating audiences with her performances. Among her notable works are Algiers (1938), Boom Town (1940), and Samson and Delilah (1949), where her acting talent solidified her status as a leading lady in the film industry.

However, Hedy Lamarr's legacy transcends the silver screen. During World War II, she joined forces with composer George Antheil to create a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology. This groundbreaking invention aimed to bolster Allied forces' secure communication by thwarting enemy attempts to intercept and jam signals. The concept laid the foundation for contemporary wireless communication technologies, including Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth.

Hedy Lamarr's remarkable legacy blends artistry and innovation, leaving an enduring imprint on both the entertainment industry and the realm of science and technology.

Clarence Sinclair Bull

Clarence Sinclair Bull

Alfred Eisenstaedt/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty Images

Robert Coburn Getty Images

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Hedy-Lamarr

https://www.biography.com/actors/hedy-lamarr

https://www.oprahdaily.com/entertainment/tv-movies/a28637093/who-is-hedy-lamarr/

Matthew Rhys

Acting Appreciation

After putting our child to bed, my ex-wife and I would unwind by watching "Brothers and Sisters," an ABC family drama that followed the lives of the Walker family. The show had an impressive cast, including Sally Field, Calista Flockhart, Rob Lowe, and the talented Welsh actor, Matthew Rhys.

Born on November 8, 1974, Matthew Rhys is renowned for his remarkable acting range and captivating presence on screen. His journey into the world of television and film commenced when he was just 17, while he was a student at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). While at RADA, he made his debut in the BBC police series "Backup" and the Welsh film "House of America." In 1996, he clinched the Welsh BAFTA for Best Actor for his performance in the Welsh film "Bydd yn Wrol."

In 1998, Rhys starred in "Greenstone," an eight-part miniseries set in the South Pacific, and then found himself cast in the Shakespearean adaptation film "Titus." Along the way, he appeared in various romantic comedies and horror films before landing a prominent role as Kevin Walker in "Brothers & Sisters" in 2006.

Yet, one of Rhys' most remarkable portrayals was that of Philip Jennings in the critically acclaimed television series "The Americans," which aired from 2013 to 2018. His depiction of a deep-cover KGB spy living in the United States during the Cold War earned widespread acclaim, culminating in a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2018.

Notably, his on-screen chemistry with co-star Keri Russell blossomed into a real-life romance.

Rhys also graced the big screen, appearing in movies like "The Post" alongside Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks, as well as "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" with Tom Hanks.

Source:

Wikipedia

https://www.tvinsider.com/people/matthew-rhys/

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0722629/bio/

https://www.vogue.com/article/i-want-what-they-have-keri-russell-and-matthew-rhys

https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/a20965189/matthew-rhys-the-americans-series-finale-interview/

https://people.com/tv/keri-russell-matthew-rhys-relationship-timeline/ 

Francisco de Zurbarán

Art Appreciation 

Francisco de Zurbarán, born in 1598 in Fuente de Cantos, Spain, is a prominent figure in Spanish Baroque art. 

Born in 1598 in Fuente de Cantos, Spain, Zurbarán was baptized on November 7. The youngest of six children, Zurbarán's exceptional drawing talent became evident, leading his merchant father to arrange formal training in Seville. There, he embarked on an apprenticeship with Pedro Diaz de Villanueva and formed a lifelong friendship with fellow student Diego Velázquez.

In 1617, Zurbarán returned to his hometown and transitioned into a professional painter, primarily receiving commissions for religious artworks. Notably, he was tasked with creating fourteen paintings for the Dominican Order of Seville and later accepted a commission for a series of 22 paintings depicting the life of Saint Peter Nolasco, which prompted his move to Seville.

Zurbarán's artistic legacy shines brightly through his masterpiece, "The Apotheosis of Saint Thomas Aquinas," completed in 1631 and now housed in the Museum of Fine Arts of Seville. In addition to his religious works, Zurbarán's still life paintings have earned their own place in art history, celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and lifelike textures. His ability to infuse vitality into everyday objects, including fruits, ceramics, and textiles, showcases his unparalleled precision.

Today, Zurbarán's legacy endures, as his influential works continue to be revered by art enthusiasts and scholars worldwide. His dedication to exploring the interplay of light and shadow, his embodiment of religious fervor, and his talent for elevating the mundane to the realm of art have secured his position as one of the most distinguished painters of the Spanish Baroque era.

Crucifixion (1627)

Saint Francis of Assisi in His Tomb (c. 1630/34)

Visión de San Pedro Nolasco (1629)

The Apotheosis of Saint Thomas Aquinas (1631)

Source:

Wikipedia

https://www.theartstory.org/artist/zurbaran-francisco-de/

https://blog.mam.org/2017/06/27/from-the-collection-francisco-de-zurbarans-saint-francis-of-assisi-in-his-tomb/

https://www.chicagocatholic.com/chicagoland/-/article/2016/10/02/art-institute-of-chicago-partners-with-archdiocese-for-jubilee-of-mercy-to-4?a=print

Yoga: YOGATX - Yoga for Back Pain - 30 Minute Back Stretch, Sciatica Pain & Flexibility Yoga Flow

via YOGATX 

Shannon Hrib

Modeling Appreciation

Her eyes, smile, and playfulness. That's all it took for me. Back then, around 2003, Shannon reminded me of the girl I fell in love with, the one who gave birth to our child.  

Born on November 5, 1984, in Parsippany, New Jersey, Shannon Hrib was one of the first barely legal 18+ girls whose popularity led her to have an online platform, Shannonmodel.com. 

The petit 5'2" blue eye blonde hair girl modeled for FTM/Modeling, an online platform that catered on non-nude modeling, where she modeled mostly lingerie and swimsuits. Later in her career, after landing her own site, eventually adding a little soft-porn and kissing. 

At an early age, Shannon moved to Spring Hill, Florida, where she graduated from Springstead High School in 2004. She started modeling at the age of 19. 

In 2006, a warrant arrest was issued for Shannon. Soon after, her involvement online started to wane. Her Facebook profile indicates she began cleaning houses, survey customers, babysitting at a gym, and becoming a full-time mom. 

In searching for the girl who captured my attention, I found her on Instagram. It shows the person that made her extremely attractive to many of us. Her IG photos are mostly of nature and plants and sprinkled with selfies displaying those eyes and and beautiful smile.  

Sources:

exploretalaent.com/shannonhrib

https://www.instagram.com/shannonpete1179

https://mugshots.com/US-States/Florida/Hernando-County-FL/Shannon-Michael-Hrib.6426051.html

Cosplay is an Art: Owensboro Comic & Toy Convention

via marcjack79

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Schiaparelli | Spring Summer 2024

Creative Director: Daniel Roseberry

via FF Channel

Nothing By Mouth

Erich Sokol, PLAYBOY (November 1994) 

Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico by Ansel Adams

Photography Appreciation

Ansel Adams, a renowned American landscape photographer, captured the iconic black and white photograph titled "Moonrise." The image elegantly displays the moon rising over Hernandez, New Mexico, situated to the north of Santa Fe. Adams was commissioned by the Secretary of the Interior to photograph scenes for large mural prints destined to adorn the Interior Museum.

The photograph's significance lies in its precise dating, a detail unveiled through astronomical insights. Two astronomers meticulously examined astronomical data to determine the exact moment when the photograph was taken. After thorough calculations, Dennis di Cicco established that the image was captured at precisely 4:49:20 p.m. on November 1, 1941.

Source:

Wikipedia