Gioachino Rossini

Music Appreciation

Gioachino Rossini, born on February 29, 1792, in Pesaro, Italy, was a renowned Italian composer and one of the most beloved composers of his era, particularly acclaimed for his masterpiece, "The Barber of Seville."

From a young age, Rossini displayed his musical talent, with his first opera debuting in Venice in 1810. By the age of 23, he was already composing operas and managing theaters in Naples, ultimately creating 34 operas for stages across Italy.

His compositions were celebrated for their melodious tunes, skillful use of ensembles, and spirited rhythms, often infused with his trademark wit and humor, evident in the comedic aspects of his operas. Rossini's music gained immense popularity not only in Italy but also in France and across Europe during his lifetime, a legacy that endures to this day.

Retiring from opera composition at 37 in 1829, Rossini spent his remaining years in France until his passing in 1868. His profound influence on subsequent composers, notably Richard Wagner, remains significant. Today, Rossini's music enjoys global acclaim, with his operas still being staged and cherished by audiences worldwide.

Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, Conductor: Jacopo Sipari di Pescasseroli

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Rabbit of Seville

 

via L00ca

Impressive Resume

During my tenure at a previous job, I was tasked with interviewing candidates for an entry-level position suitable for a communications graduate. Among the applicants, one resume stood out—a young woman with a background as a former model and waitress at Hooters. Despite having already selected three candidates for interviews, I felt compelled to extend an invitation to her.

On the day of her interview, a poised and professionally attired 5'8" brunette entered our office, exuding confidence. Her striking appearance was matched by a genuine and approachable demeanor. Despite my occasional nervous stuttering, she handled the questions with grace and provided articulate responses. By the interview's end, it was unanimous that she was an exceptional candidate deserving of consideration.

Upon tallying the evaluations, it was revealed that she was tied with another candidate. Unfortunately, she had already accepted a job offer elsewhere. This instance highlighted the importance of considering unconventional backgrounds and experiences, as they can often bring unique perspectives and skills to the table.

Doug Sneyd (2001)

Body Art: Johannes Stötter - Camouflage

via Johannes Stötter

Dance: Lauren Daigle - Rescue

Choreography: Soonmi Ha (Mia)

via GNI Dance Company[지니댄스학원 컴퍼니]

Cosplay is an Art: MAGFEST 2024

 via Patrick Goelz

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Versace Fall - Winter 2024

Fashion Designer: Donatella Versace

via Versace

Sir Balthazar Gerbier

Art Appreciation

Born in Middelburg, Zeeland (Netherlands) on February 23, 1592, Sir Balthazar Gerbier emerged as a leading figure in 17th-century Dutch painting, extending his influence beyond artistry into architecture, diplomacy, and espionage.

In 1616, Gerbier arrived in London, where he found employment under the English courtier George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, engaging initially as an art collector. His talents quickly expanded to encompass the oversight of estate renovations and the creation of miniature paintings while in Buckingham's service. Subsequently, Gerbier embarked on a diplomatic mission alongside Buckingham and Prince Charles to Madrid, aiming to negotiate the union of the Prince with Princess Maria Anna of Spain.

Following the unsuccessful endeavor in Spain, Gerbier accompanied the Prince and the Duke to Paris, where Prince Charles entered into a proxy marriage with the French princess Henrietta Maria. It was during this time in Paris that Gerbier forged a close bond with the renowned artist Peter Paul Rubens.

Following Rubens's demise, Gerbier facilitated the acquisition of the artist's collection for King Charles, subsequently assuming the role of the King's resident agent in Brussels. During his tenure in Brussels, Gerbier engaged in clandestine activities, collaborating with Flemish nobility to undermine Spanish rule while clandestinely selling intelligence to the King of Spain. Unbeknownst to King Charles I of the espionage, Gerbier was appointed Master of Ceremonies, tasked with organizing royal spectacles and events.

Subsequent to his dismissal in 1641, Gerbier embarked on various ventures, including a banking scheme in France, a quest for gold in Guiana, and the establishment of a painting academy in London, all while maintaining political involvement.

Gerbier's intriguing views on slavery, published in 1660, advocated for the enslavement of Africans as a means of economic advancement. He argued that the Africans brought to England were previously enslaved and that their introduction to Christianity under English rule represented an improvement in their condition -- a thought I consider repulsive. 

Charles I (ca. 1616)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://balthazargerbier.info/

https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O74889/charles-i-perhaps-when-prince-portrait-miniature-gerbier-balthazar-sir/

https://www.artnet.com/artists/balthazar-gerbier-douvilly/

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: A Day at the Zoo (A Little Golden Book)

 

I before E except after C

I before E except after C. That's what I remember learning in grade school. While this guideline was intended to help in spelling, as I got older I began noticing exceptions to this rule. Words like "weird", "foreign," and "caffeine" defy this principle, showcasing the inherent intricacies in the language's spelling patterns. 

by Dan Piraro (Jan. 9, 2014)

President's Day

 

Dance: Ariana Grande - Yes, And?

Choreography: Moya | MW Dance Studio

via MW Dance Studio

Cosplay is an Art: ANIME LOS ANGELES 2024

via Chong Ahn 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Etam Live Show 2023 - Défilé lntégral (Full Parade)

via Etam 

"You Watch the Weirdest P*rn"

Watching adult content can be challenging when you have a pet, especially if it's a particularly needy or affectionate animal. The last thing you want is for your pet to suddenly crave attention or attempt to join you on your lap when jacking off.

In the past, when I had pets, I strategically scheduled my private time around their mealtime to ensure I had ample uninterrupted moments. However, there were a few instances when a particularly clingy dog vehemently objected to being locked out of the room, creating a distracting cacophony of scratching and howling.

By Adam Ellis @adamtots

Happy Valentine's Day

 

One Size Fits All

There are different sizes of condoms that accommodate the varying sizes of penises. This is something I didn't realize early in life. I thought one size of condom fits all. But that's not the case.

Choosing the right condom size is essential for a comfortable and safe experience. I once bought condoms that were too snug. So snug that it was difficult putting it on and very uncomfortable. 

To ensure the right fit, it's essential to measure the penis' girth not the length. So, when I saw the condom box labeled "Large" I should not have been intimidated or think it mean length. Yes, a 5 1/2 large girth is large. Yay me.  

So, it's important to choose the right size that fits comfortably to ensure the best protection and enjoyable sexual experience. 

Phil Interlandi, PLAYBOY (November 1995)

Eugène Atget

Photography Appreciation

Eugène Atget, hailed as a trailblazer in documentary photography, is revered for his enduring impact on the art form. Born on February 12, 1857, in Libourne, Atget was raised by his maternal grandparents in Bordeaux. Following his secondary education, he sought admission to the National Conservatory of Music and Drama, facing initial rejection before fulfilling his military service requirement and ultimately gaining acceptance.

Venturing into the realm of acting, Atget joined a traveling troupe, gracing stages in and around Paris. It was during this time that he crossed paths with Valentine Delafosse Compagnon, an actress who would become his companion until her death.

However, Atget's acting career was cut short by a vocal cord infection, prompting a shift to painting, without notable success. Subsequently, he found his calling in photography, capturing his inaugural images of Amiens and Beauvais in 1888.

With camera in hand, Atget traversed the streets of Paris, meticulously documenting the city's evolving urban fabric and rich cultural tapestry. His focus on architectural marvels and quintessentially French scenes drew the attention of artists seeking inspiration for their creations. Driven by a fervent desire to create what he humbly termed "documents," Atget pursued his craft with unwavering dedication.

In the twilight of his life, Atget's work caught the eye of surrealist Man Ray, who marveled at the surreal quality of his photographs depicting storefronts. This recognition led to a fortuitous encounter with Berenice Abbott, then darkroom assistant to Man Ray. 

Abbott sought Atget and persuaded him to sit for a photograph. To her surprise, Atget arrived at her studio dapper wearing an overcoat. She immortalized Atget in a portrait session, days before his death. Abbott assumed custodianship of his prints and negatives, emerging as a steadfast advocate for his legacy.

In 1984, Atget's enduring contributions were posthumously celebrated with his induction into the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum.

Avenue des Gobelins (1925)

The Orangerie Staircase (1901)

Boulevard de Strasbourg (1925)

Cafe, Avenue de la Grande-Armee (1924-25)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/atgt/hd_atgt.htm

https://www.apollo-magazine.com/eugene-atget-getty-los-angeles/

https://iphf.org/inductees/eugene-atget/

https://www.gallery.ca/collection/artist/eugene-atget

https://www.henricartierbresson.org/en/expositions/eugene-atget/

https://www.westongallery.com/original-works-by/eugene-atget 

Dance: Órla Baxendale - 2023 Dance Showreel

Órla Baxendale passed away January 11, 2024 due to an allergic reaction of a mislabeled product.

Read her obituary HERE.

via OralB

Grace Henry

Art Appreciation 

Grace Henry, born on February 10, 1868, near Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, gained renown as a Scottish artist celebrated for her enchanting portrayals of the Scottish landscape. Raised in a home environment, she spent part of her youth at the family residence in London. In 1895, Henry embarked on an artistic career, first attending the Blanc-Guerrins Academy in Brussels and later pursuing studies at the Delacurze Academy in Paris.

During her time in Paris, she met Irish artist Paul Henry, whom she married shortly thereafter. The couple relocated to Achill Island, Ireland, in 1910, where they became pivotal figures in the formation of the Society of Dublin Painters—an avenue for emerging Irish artists. However, Grace's personal life took a turn, leading to a legal separation from Paul in 1930 due to a romantic involvement with Stephen Gwynn, an Irish journalist and politician.

Grace Henry's artistic journey continued to evolve as she explored new horizons during travels to France and Italy with Gwynn. Studying under cubist artist André Lhote, she delved into various styles, ranging from fauvism to expressionism. Her works found regular exhibition spaces at esteemed venues such as the Royal Hibernian Academy, as well as the Waddington and Dawson galleries in Dublin.

Achill Village (c. 1970s)

The Gypsy Girl (ca 1920s)

Relaxing by the Shore

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.whytes.ie/artist/grace-henry/15594/

https://www.thebennettartcollection.com/artists/grace-henry

https://www.morganodriscoll.com/art/grace-henry-relaxing-by-the-shore/83928

Year of the Dragon

Happy Lunar New Year!

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: 11 Threads Roma

Designers: Shane Ramnarine and Luca Di Berardino  

via Yvan Creates

Internet Comments

Writing serves as my outlet to express my passions, be it music, art, or photography. It provides a space for creativity and self-exploration. However, when I share my posts on platform X, anxiety creeps in as I anticipate internet comments. Past experiences with negative feedback led me to pause my writing and retreat momentarily.

Growing older, I've come to accept that negative comments are a part of the process, and surprisingly, I welcome them. It signifies that people are engaging with my blog, taking the time to read and share their thoughts. Embracing both positive and negative responses has become an integral aspect of my journey, fostering resilience and a deeper connection with my audience.

By Adam Ellis @adamtots

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: FANTASTIC FOUR 200th Issue - 17th Anniversary (1978)

 

The Chemical Brothers - Got To Keep On

Music Appreciation

On February 6, 2019, The Chemical Brothers unleashed "Got To Keep On," a prime example of their unique take on electronic music, seamlessly blending disco, house, and funk elements. The music video, directed by the talented siblings Michel and Olivier Gondry, along with production designer Shawn Kim, captures The Chemical Brothers' signature style. Through a skillful combination of live-action sequences and captivating visual effects, the video immerses audiences in a vibrant and kaleidoscopic universe of fashion, dance, and color.

Sources:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9795670/fullcredits?ref_=tt_ov_st_sm

https://www.songfacts.com/facts/the-chemical-brothers/got-to-keep-on

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

Gabrielle Anwar

Acting Appreciation

Probably best known for her role as Margaret Tudor on the Starz series The Tudors and as Fiona Glenanne on the USA Network series Burn Notice, Gabrielle Anwar was born in Laleham, Surrey on February 4, 1970. 

She studied drama and dance at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London. She was kicked out of school for fist-fighting at the age of 15; however, soon after, she landed the main role of Tracy Wright in the BBC miniseries Hideaway. 

At the age of 19, the English actress moved to Los Angeles with actor Craig Sheffer.

While cleaning apartments she got called in for an audition for a role that would become her breakthrough, Scent of a Woman. She would play Al Pacino's character's tango partner, an iconic moment in film. 

As she would later describe it, "A tango is inherently a sensual experience. Dancing a Tango with Al Pacino is something I am yet to recover from."

 She would then appear in Body Snatchers, For Love or Money, and The Three Musketeers. In addition to her work on television and in film, Anwar has also appeared in various stage productions and music videos. She has been nominated for several awards throughout her career, including a Screen Actors Guild Award for her work on The Tutors.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://ew.com/article/1996/08/16/gabrielle-anwar-tries-get-out-her-rut/

whf c. ai

Cosplay is an Art: Megacon London 2024

via DrWheroTog 

Happy Groundhog Day

 

Jamaal Barber

Art Appreciation

Jamaal Barber, born in 1980 in Virginia and raised in Littleton, North Carolina, discovered his passion for art at a young age, inspired by the captivating illustrations in children's books and comics. This early fascination led him to create his own images on various materials, including the back of textbooks. It wasn't until high school, after learning about the life and legacy of artist Romare Bearden, that Barber decided to pursue a career as an artist. 

He earned a BA in Communication Arts from East Carolina University and an MFA in Printmaking from Georgia State University. In 2013, Barber shifted his focus to printmaking after being introduced to screen printing, though he also engages in painting, collages, and ink wash drawings. 

His fine art is displayed at the ZuCot Gallery and has been featured in various exhibitions, including the Decatur Arts Festival and the Atlanta Print Biennial Show. Notably, his work delves into themes of black identity, American social structures, and propagandistic imagery. Barber's artistic reach extends beyond exhibitions, as he has contributed to projects for notable institutions such as Black Art in America, Emory University, The New York Times 1619 Project, and Twitter. Additionally, he co-hosts the Studio Noize Podcast, dedicated to spotlighting artists and creators of the diaspora.

To Be Free (2018)

Where Angels Go (2022)

Something Wonderful IV

Sources: 

https://www.jbarberstudio.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jbarberstudio/

https://www.davidsongalleries.com/collections/jamaal-barber

https://adamatl.org/global-artist-spotlight/Blog%20Post%20Title%20One-y4lke

https://bluespiral1.com/artwork/27401-something-wonderful-iv?artistsid=1115