Mother Goose and New Year's Eve Party

 

Buck Brown, PLAYBOY (January 1996)

Cosplay is an Art: ANIME NYC 2023

via Justin Pineda Media 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Balenciaga Fall 24 Collection

Fashion Designer: Demna Gvasalia

via Balenciaga 

Lili Ilse Elvenes (Lili Elbe)

Art Appreciation 

Whether you've been a consistent follower of my blog or simply stumbled upon it, you're likely aware of two key aspects about me: my passion for exploring art and writing about it, and my role as a father to a transgender daughter.

Reflecting on a few years back, I vividly recall watching "The Danish Girl" (2015), featuring Eddie Redmayne, a film about the life of Lili Elbe. Elbe, born as Einar Wegener on December 28, 1882, in Vejle, Denmark, was a groundbreaking transgender post-impressionist artist. Her artistic journey commenced when she moved to Copenhagen to pursue art studies at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, where she met Greda Gottlieb, a Danish painter and illustrator, leading to their marriage in 1904.

In 1907, Elbe earned the prestigious Neuhausens Prize, a Danish award for architects and visual artists, after exhibiting at the Kunstnernes Efterårsudstilling at the Vejle Art Museum in Denmark and the Salon d'Automne in Paris.   

As the 1920s unfolded, Elbe embraced a transformation, adopting women's attire and posing as a model for Gottlieb. Their journey took them to Paris, where Elbe felt liberated to present herself authentically in public. However, in 1930, Elbe embarked on a series of five experimental gender-affirming surgeries in Germany, culminating in her being the first transgender woman to undergo vaginoplasty surgery during the fourth procedure. Unfortunately, complications arose as her immune system rejected the transplanted uterus, leading to a fatal infection and her demise on September 13, 1931. 

Greek Youth (1903)

Parti Fra Capri (1921)

Garden of Versailles (1922)

Portrait De Femme (1923)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.wikiart.org/en/lili-elbe

http://www.papillongallery.com/einar_wegener.html

https://oii.org.au/789/book-review-man-woman/

https://daily.jstor.org/what-actually-happened-to-the-danish-girl-and-her-wife/

https://medium.com/@arteoriginal.co/from-einar-wegener-to-lili-elbe-first-gender-reassignment-in-the-art-world-99009ca4005f

https://www.biography.com/artists/lili-elbe

William A. Garnett

Photography Appreciation 

William A. Garnett, a prominent American landscape photographer, gained acclaim for his distinctive aerial photography, transforming natural landscapes like forests, sand dunes, mountains, canyons, agricultural scenes, and suburban grids into captivating artistic expressions.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on December 27, 1916, Garnett relocated with his family to Pasadena, California. Following high school, he pursued a year of studies at the Art Center School in Los Angeles and subsequently embarked on a career as an independent commercial photographer and graphic designer in 1938.

In 1940, Garnett joined the Pasadena Police Department as a photographer and later worked briefly for Lockheed aircraft company before being drafted into the U.S. Army.

Upon completing his military service in 1945, Garnett acquired a passion for flying. By 1949, he purchased his first plane, marking the beginning of his aerial photography endeavors. His captivating work garnered attention, earning him the first of three Guggenheim fellowships in 1953. The George Eastman House in Rochester, New York, hosted his inaugural solo exhibition in 1955.

Equipping himself with a Cessna 170B single-engine plane, Garnett made modifications to optimize it for photography. He conducted experiments with various camera formats and films to refine his craft.

Garnett's photography found a place in esteemed publications like Fortune, Life, Reader's Digest, and The New York Times Magazine, as well as in art and text books, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend artistic vision with the portrayal of diverse landscapes.

Dry Wash With Alluvium, Death Valley, California (1957)

Bryce Canyon, Utah (1966)

After Combine Harvest, Montezuma Hills, California (1964)

Foundations and Slabs, Lakewood, California (1950)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/09/obituaries/09garnett.html

https://www.sfomuseum.org/exhibitions/william-garnett-view-above

https://artblart.com/tag/william-a-garnett-aerial-photography/

Tahnee Welch

Acting Appreciation

Tahnee Welch, the daughter of the renowned actress Raquel Welch, portrayed Antarea, an extraterrestrial visitor who arrived on Earth with a mission: to recover cocoons hidden at the ocean's depths, containing the vital life force required to rejuvenate her alien society. When the sci-fi/fantasy film "Cocoon" gcame out in 1985, I was a only nine years old, and while I may not recall all the intricate details of its storyline, one scene remains etched in my memory—the captivating pool encounter between Tahnee Welch's character and Steve Guttenberg's.

Born on December 26, 1961, in San Diego, California, Tahnee Welch, despite her Hollywood lineage as the daughter of a famous actress, led a unique life. Her rebellious spirit led her to drop out of private school and leave home, rejecting the facade of conformity. In her own words to Playboy writer Christopher Napolitano, "I was shy but rebellious. I couldn't stand putting up a front. When I dropped out, I wanted to say, 'What are you going to do, handcuff me to the desk?' It was exhilarating. I ran off to do whatever I liked, which, at 16, wasn't much..."

After a period of odd jobs, including house cleaning, Tahnee landed in New York City, where she pursued acting studies. Subsequently, her acting career took root in Italy, where she secured the lead role in "Amarsi un po'...," a film that garnered favor among Italian audiences.

However, it was her breakthrough role in "Cocoon" in 1985 that catapulted Tahnee Welch into the limelight. The film enjoyed resounding success at the box office, and Tahnee's performance earned her critical acclaim.

Beyond her acting endeavors, Tahnee also ventured into the world of modeling, gracing the pages of prestigious publications like Vogue, Elle, and Harper's Bazaar. Notably, she bared her artistic side by posing nude for Playboy, featured in the November 1995 issue.

Tahnee Welch's journey from a Hollywood upbringing to a multifaceted career in the entertainment industry, both in front of the camera and on the pages of iconic magazines, is a testament to her individuality and talent.

Dave Allocca, 2013

Sante D'Orazio, Playboy 1995

Sante D'Orazio Playboy 1995

Sources:

Wikipedia

santedoreazio.tumblr.com

https://stargateantares.wordpress.com/2014/11/01/cocoon-the-film-antarean-aliens/

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0193520/

Napolitano, Christopher. "Totally Tahnee." Playboy, November 1995, Vol. 42 No. 11, pp. 74-81.

Merry F-ing Christmas

O Tannenbaum!

 

Cosplay is an Art: "Merry Xmas Everybody" ~ A Doctor Who music video

via Just Cos Cosplay 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Versace Spring-Summer 2024

Creative Director: Donatella Versace

via Versace 

First Day of Winter

 

Joyce Hyser

Acting Appreciation

Joyce Hyser, born on December 20, 1957, is a former American actress who gained recognition for her standout performance in the 1985 cult classic film, "Just One of the Guys," and for her recurring role in the popular TV series, L.A. Law. 

Hailing from New York City, Hyser, who is of Jewish descent, spent her formative years on the east coast. Annual attendance at a summer camp, facilitated by The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, played a crucial role in shaping her character and uncovering her artistic talents. The confidence gained from these experiences propelled her towards the pursuit of her dreams, leading her to study acting in both New York City and Los Angeles.

Sources:

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0405310/

https://www.themoviedb.org/person/91724-joyce-hyser

https://movies.fandom.com/wiki/Joyce_Hyser

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/joyce_hyser

"I Don't See That Happening"

A few years back, my girlfriend and I decided to grab some drinks at Ellis, an open-air eatery and bar. Given the COVID situation, outdoor seating was the norm. On this particular day in Austin, the weather was quite chilly.

To combat the cold, we secured a spot at the outdoor bar beneath a patio heater. My girlfriend nestled comfortably under its warmth, while I, unfortunately, took the seat exposed to the elements, shivering in the cold Austin air.

Feeling the chill, I mustered the courage to ask if she could scoot over a bit and share the warmth. Without hesitation, she replied, "I don't see that happening." Undeterred, I transformed my plea into a more assertive command, "Scoot!"

The whole scenario brought to mind the poignant final scene in Titanic with Jack and Rose and the infamous door. I couldn't help but wonder, had Rose just shifted a bit, could Jack have survived?

By Adam Ellis @adamtots

Nicole Clitman

Acting Appreciation

The adult entertainment industry has often employed a curious strategy of naming its performers after celebrities, leveraging the physical resemblance to famous figures to create a heightened sense of fantasy. One notable example is Nicole Clitman, a young and attractive blonde who bore a striking resemblance to Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman. Featured in over 20 adult films, her career was unexpectedly cut short by undisclosed circumstances.

Shelby Reneé Barrett, born on December 18, 1991, in Decatur, Illinois, and raised in Gaithersburg, Maryland, had a diverse background. Growing up, she immersed herself in cheerleading and had a passion for music, playing both the flute and piano. Engaging in high school band activities, including Wind Symphony, showcased her multifaceted talents.

A dedicated performer from a young age, Shelby traveled across the country singing for ReCreation USA, entertaining military veterans. Pursuing a music major at Millikin University, a private college in Decatur, she showcased her vocal prowess in opera and exhibited her musical skills on the flute.

The transition to the adult entertainment industry came with Shelby adopting the persona of Nicole Clitman, drawing on her resemblance to Nicole Kidman. Standing at 5'3" with blonde hair and blue eyes, she made her debut in May 2016, participating in 20+ titles over two years. Collaborating with studios such as RealityKings.com, Evil Angel, Girlfriends Films, Digital Playground, and Tushy, she eventually adopted the name Holly Hanson.

In an interview with AVN, Shelby revealed her entry into the adult industry stemmed from a challenging personal experience where explicit pictures of her were shared online by an ex-boyfriend. Reflecting on her situation while traveling the United States for a non-profit organization, she decided to embrace her identity as a performer and capitalize on the opportunity to generate income.

Tragically, Shelby, also known as Nicole Clitman and Holly Hanson, passed away on March 12, 2019, as noted in her obituary.

Sources:

https://www.babepedia.com/babe/Nicole_Clitman

https://www.indexxx.com/m/nicole-clitman

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8310530/bio/

https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/4223049/Shelby-Renee-Barrett

https://avn.com/business/articles/video/performer-nicole-clitman-passes-away-826307.html

https://avn.com/business/articles/video/fresh-faces-nicole-clitman-693917.html

https://www.digitalplayground.com/modelprofile/17021/holly-hanson

https://www.digitalplayground.com/modelprofile/17021/holly-hanson

https://www.porn-star.com/nicole_clitman/tom.html

https://timmieblaze.wordpress.com/2021/06/19/porn-star-dakota-skye-who-received-backlash-for-flashing-breasts-at-george-floyd-mural-found-dead/

Dance: Christina Aguilera - Express (Burlesque Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

Choreography: Irina Ryzhakova

via Irina Ryzhakova

Cosplay is an Art: Anime NYC 2023 - New York City Anime Convention

via Justin Cosplay

Album Cover: Parliament - Mothership Connection

Album Cover

Album: Parliament - Mothership Connection

Released: December 15, 1975

Photographer: David Alexander

Art Direction, Design: Gribbitt!

Source: Wikipedia

Jane Birkin

Acting Appreciation 

Actress and singer Jane Birkin was a renowned figure in the world of entertainment, celebrated for her iconic contribution to film, music, and fashion.

Born on December 14, 1946, in Marylebone, London, Jane Mallory Birkin was the daughter of an English theatre actress and a father who served as a lieutenant commander in the Royal Navy and a World War II spy.

At 17, Jane married John Barry, the renowned English composer and conductor of film music, best known for his scores in eleven James Bond films between 1963 and 1987. The marriage concluded when Barry moved to the United States.

Seeking her passion for acting, Jane auditioned for roles in the UK, securing parts in films like "Kaleidoscope" (1966), "Blowup" (1966), and "Wonderwall" (1968). Her aspirations led her to France, where she starred in the French satirical romantic comedy-drama "Slogan" (1969) and crossed paths with the legendary French musician Serge Gainsbourg.

Their collaboration produced the sensual and provocative duet "Je t'aime... moi non plus," propelling Jane to international fame. Throughout the 1970s, she released three albums, predominantly written by Gainsbourg.

In film, Jane appeared in diverse genres during the '70s, including "Dark Places" (1973), "Catherine & Co." (1975), "Sept morts sur ordonnance" (1975), "Je t'aime moi non plus" (1976), earning her first César Award nomination, and "Animal" (1977).

Despite separating from Gainsbourg in 1980, he continued writing her music until his death in 1991. In 1996, Jane released "Versions Jane," a tribute album featuring Gainsbourg covers.

In 1981, she starred in the French film "La Fille prodigue," directed by Jacques Doillon, sparking a 13-year relationship.

Throughout the '80s, Birkin balanced film roles with music. Notable films include "La pirate" (1984), earning her a César Award nomination, "Leave All Fair" (1985), "The Woman of My Life" (1986), and "Kung Fu Master" (1988), co-written by Birkin. She also influenced the fashion world by inspiring the creation of the iconic Birkin bag by Hermès.

Jane Birkin continues to shine as a multifaceted artist, seamlessly transitioning between acting, music, and humanitarian work. Her enduring impact, timeless beauty, and immense talent ensure her place as a cherished figure in the hearts of many, with a legacy destined to endure for generations.

By David Thorpe (Getty Image)

REPORTERS ASSOCIES (Getty Images)

REPORTERS ASSOCIES/Gamma-Rapho

Playboy (November 1970)

Serge Gainsbourg & Jane Birkin - Je t'aime... moi non plus (Fontana 1969)

Source:

https://www.scopeweekly.com/2023/07/jane-birkin-fashion-style-through-time/

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/culture-news/a44555194/jane-birkin-life-legacy/

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/celebrity/latest/g44756375/32-rare-photos-of-jane-birkin-through-the-years/

https://www.veranda.com/luxury-lifestyle/luxury-fashion-jewelry/g34946530/jane-birkin-style/

https://www.wsj.com/articles/jane-birkin-women-over-40-49e913ef

https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2023/07/jane-birkin-in-photos

https://observer.com/2023/07/jane-birkin-the-icons-life-in-movies-and-music/#:~:text=Contrary%20to%20her%20French%20affiliations,)%20and%20Wonderwall%20(1968)

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/16/arts/music/jane-birkin-french-icon.html

Album Cover: Beyoncé - Beyoncé

Album Cover

Album: Beyoncé - Beyoncé

Released: December 13, 2013

Creative Designer: Todd Tourso

Source: Wikipedia

Men Have No Sense When it Comes to Women

I often find myself intrigued with Doug Sneyd's cartoons, like this one. Obviously, it about infidelity, but it's also more about how he is unable to make a decision.  

Doug Sneyd, PLAYBOY (May 1996)

Body Art: Roustan - Shadia Elise

Artist: Roustan

Mode: Shadia Elise

via Roustan

Cosplay is an Art: 2023 ANIME WEEKEND ATLANTA

 

via iShinobi Studios

Album Cover: Eagles - Hotel California

Album Cover

Album: Eagles - Hotel California

Released: December 8, 1976

Photographer: David Alexander

Design and Art Direction: Kosh

Location: Beverly Hills Hotel, 9641 Sunset Blvd.

Source:

https://www.loudersound.com/features/the-story-behind-the-eagles-hotel-california-album-artwork-interview

Chloe Alexander

Art Appreciation

Chloe Alexander, a printmaker based in Atlanta, Georgia, employs her art as a form of storytelling, drawing inspiration from illuminated texts, graphic novels, and children's fairy tales. Her whimsical imagery and characters aim to evoke nostalgia and familiarity in viewers, engaging them in visual narratives that transcend spoken words.

In her artistic depictions, Alexander often portrays birds and people in solitary or paired settings, using silkscreen in her printmaking to layer images with ink and paint. Her compositions, focusing on birds that could easily represent people, invite viewers to interpret and read into the stories she presents. 

Alexander, who received her BFA in Printmaking in 2010 and an M.Ed. in 2014 from Georgia State University, has exhibited nationally and internationally. 

In an interview, Alexander expressed pride in her current artistic journey and the ability to lead a multi-dimensional life. She mentioned being inspired by Robert Pruitt and Dawn Okoro, both Black artists in Texas. Alexander's artistic process is accompanied by a mix of NPR, her iMusic playlist, or true crime podcasts in the studio. 

Close your eyes; make a wish (2022)

Use Your Imagination (2022)

Catch and Release (2022)

Sources:

https://www.thehaplessprintmaker.com/

https://www.stayhomegallery.com/chloe-alexander 

https://meshartgallery.com/collections/chloe-alexander

https://www.artsy.net/artwork/chloe-alexander-dreamscape-contemporary-silkscreen-and-collage-on-paper-with-stunning-color-purple-plus-gold-plus-black-plus-white

https://gallery1202.com/art/use-your-imagination-by-chloe-alexander

Maria de Dominici

Art Appreciation

Maria de Dominici, a prominent Maltese painter and sculptor of the Baroque-era, was born in Birgu, Malta on December 6, 1645. Raised in a family of artists, de Dominici her liking for drawing captured attention, prompting her parents to arrange for formal training under the guidance of a master.  

Under the mentorship of the accomplished painter and sculptor Mattia Preti, de Dominici honed her artistic skills. Notably, Preti was renowned for his transformative work on the interior of St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, and it is believe that de Dominici assisted Preti paint the cathedral's vaults.  

Nadette Xuereb, in her dissertation, highlighted that de Dominici's acclaimed was closely tied to her association with Preti and her role as a Carmelite tertiary nun. Moreover, she holds the distinction of being the first recorded female artist in Malta.

Virgin with Ss Nicholas & Roque

(Attr. to de Dominici) St. Teresa of Avila

(Attr. to de Dominici) Vision of St. Maria Maddalena de Pazzi

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/history/maltese-herstory-maltas-first-established-female-painter-was-a-bold-baroque-and-free-roaming-nun/

https://lovinmalta.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/17BAART011.pdf

Shalom Harlow

Acting Appreciation

During my teenage years, I stumbled upon images of the Canadian model Shalom Harlow. What caught my attention was not just her Canadian citizenship, which I found pretty cool at the time, but also her impressive height of 5'11". It struck me as amusing since I'm quite short and nowhere near that stature.

Shalom Harlow, born on December 5, 1973, in Oshawa, Ontario, developed a passion for ballet, tap dancing, and jazz during her upbringing. At the age of 17, she was discovered at a Cure concert in Toronto, marking the beginning of her journey into the world of modeling. Her career blossomed, encompassing magazine covers, runway shows, and films.

In contrast to the prevailing image of supermodels during that era, Shalom Harlow was perceived as more relatable. Fashion journalist Tim Blanks aptly described her as "made for couture," earning her favor with prestigious brands like Chanel and Dior.

In 1996, Shalom and her longtime friend, model Amber Valletta, cohosted MTV's House of Style. This venture marked a transition from a successful modeling career to the realm of film. Shalom made her film debut in the 1997 Frank Oz comedy "In & Out" and went on to appear in movies such as "Head over Heels" (2001), "Happy Here and Now" (2002), "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" (2003), and "Game 6" (2005).

by Irving Penn Vogue Mark 1996

by Bruce Weber Vogue April 1993

by Inez van Lamsweerde & Vinoodh Matadin

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.themoviedb.org/person/92857-shalom-harlow

https://eightydaysblack.wordpress.com/2016/02/03/day-after-day/hairy-naked-nude-celeb-shalom-harlow-6/

https://fashionweekdaily.com/shalom-harlow-fall-1997-dior-show/

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/photography/a37330236/paint-the-town-september-2021/

https://www.wmagazine.com/fashion/shalom-harlow-interview-2022

https://www.vogue.com/article/shalom-harlow-best-moments-in-vogue

https://purple.fr/magazine/fw-2007-issue-8/shalom-harlow/

https://www.dazeddigital.com/fashion/article/25659/1/shalom-harlow-was-an-era-defining-90s-model

Yoga: YOGATX - Full Body Stretch Yoga - 30 Minute Flexibility & Deep Stretch Workout

via YOGATX 

Dance: The Heart Never Forgets (Short Dance Film)

I came across this wonderful dance film that tells a story of Toby who is slowing losing his memories. 

Dancers: Joelina Rietsche & Tobias Mulcahy

Concept, direction and choreography: Holly Mitchell 

via Holly Mitchell

Cosplay is an Art: Anime Weekend Atlanta 2023

via Justin Cosplay

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Giorgio Armani Privé Fall Winter 2023-24

 Fashion designer: Giorgio Armani

via Armani