Francesco Primaticcio

Art Appreciation

Francesco Primaticcio, born in Bologna on April 30, 1504, emerged as a prominent figure in the Italian Mannerist movement, renowned for his exquisite frescoes and stucco work.

Under the tutelage of esteemed masters such as Giulio Romano and Innocenzo da Imola, Primaticcio honed his skills, paving the way for his entry into the royal court of Francis I of France in 1532. Alongside luminaries like Rosso Fiorentino, he played a pivotal role in establishing the School of Fontainebleau, a fusion of Italian Renaissance aesthetics and French artistic sensibilities.

Following Fiorentino's passing, Primaticcio assumed leadership in shaping the artistic vision of the Palace of Fontainebleau. His signature style, characterized by elongated forms, fluid movement, and intricate detailing, epitomized the essence of Mannerism.

In the twilight of his career, Primaticcio ventured into architecture, leaving an enduring legacy with his masterpiece, the Valois Chapel at the Abbey of Saint-Denis. The chapel, a testament to his architectural prowess, boasts a circular design adorned with pilasters, columns, and marble epitaphs, showcasing his mastery of form and space.

Primaticcio's contributions spanned across disciplines, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape of his time and inspiring generations to come. His legacy endures as a testament to the transformative power of creativity and innovation.

Holy Family with St Elizabeth and John the Baptist (1541)

The rape of Helena (1530-1539)

Odysseus and Penelope (1563)

Sources:

Wikipedia

Body Art: Paul Roustan - Sawyer

Artist: Paul Roustan

Model: Sawyer

Via Roustan

Sex and Videotape

There may be a video sex tape in my possession of me and my ex. I just don't remember. 

Were we daring back then? I know I had video cameras. I recorded a lot of her and us, but don't recall if I captured us having sex. 

Of course, the secret is somewhat safe, in that videotape players, let alone 8mm ones, are quite rare.

Leo Garel, PLAYBOY (November 1995)

 

Cosplay is an Art: Anime Las Vegas 2024

via Justin Cosplay 

Positive Side of Things

Focusing solely on the positive side of a situation can overlook critical challenges and obstacles that need to be addressed, leading to potential blind spots in decision-making. Additionally, ignoring negative aspects can hinder growth and improvement. Rather, embrace a balanced perspective that considers both positive and negative aspects, which will result in a more comprehensive problem-solving approach.

by Nate Fakes @nate_fakes

Anna De Ville

Acting Appreciation

Anna De Ville captivates me with her quirky personality and charm, qualities that I found utterly charming after listening to her interview on Matt Slayer's podcast, And Now We Drink.

Born on April 24, 1997, in Portland, Oregon, Anna De Ville's journey began at an arts academy for middle and high school. A former gymnast in her youth, she left school during her sophomore year but didn't let that derail her path. Instead, she obtained her G.E.D. and entered the workforce at just 14 years old, starting her professional journey at Hot Topic.  

Standing at 5'2" with captivating auburn hair and hazel eyes, the vixen entered into the adult entertainment industry at the age of 18, spending a transformative summer in Europe. It wasn't long before she made waves in European adult entertainment, swiftly rising to prominence and captivating audiences with her undeniable talent.  

Sources:

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

https://www.boobpedia.com/boobs/Anna_de_Ville

https://www.adultempire.com/671816/anna-de-ville-pornstars.html

https://avn.com/porn-stars/avn-anna-de-ville-634451.html

https://www.freeones.com/anna-de-ville

https://www.indexxx.com/m/anna-de-ville

https://interviews.adultdvdtalk.com/anna-de-ville-extreme-sex/

Fatboy Slim - Weapon of Choice

Music Appreciation

One notable instance of a music video surpassing the popularity of its accompanying song is Fatboy Slim's "Weapon of Choice." Released on April 23, 2001, the song is part of Fatboy Slim's third studio album, "Halfway Between the Gutter and the Stars," featuring vocals by Bootsy Collins of Parliament-Funkadelic.

Directed by Spike Jonze, the music video was filmed in the lobby of the Marriott Hotel (now the L.A. Grand Hotel Downtown) in Los Angeles and starred Academy Award-winning actor Christopher Walken, and also known for his dance skills. In my view, this music video stands out for its exceptional direction, choreography, and editing.

The video begins with Walken sitting pensively on a lobby chair, captivated by a portable AM/FM radio on a nearby cleaning cart. After a brief moment of contemplation, Walken succumbs to the music, breaking into a dance that takes him around the lobby, up an escalator, onto a table, in front of mirrors, and even airborne. As the song concludes, he returns to the chair. 

This sequence showcases the impeccable direction, choreography, and editing that make it one of the best-executed music videos.

via Fatboy Slim

 

Body Art: Jen The Body Painter - Model Goes on Tinder Day Wearing Only Body Paint

via Jen The Body Painter 

Dance: Benny Benassi - Satisfaction

Choreography: Levenson Anastasia

Dancers: LVNSN CREW

Filmmaker: Liam Almeida

via Anastasia Levenson | LVNSN

 

Cosplay is an Art: Fan Expo Cleveland 2024

via Justin Cosplay 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: LOEWE Fall Winter 2024

Creative Director: Jonathan Anderson

via LOEWE 

Pavel Acevedo

Art Appreciation

Pavel Acevedo, originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, initiated his art studies at the Rufino Tamayo Plastic Arts Workshop in Oaxaca City. He later pursued a Bachelor's Degree in visual arts at the Fine Arts School of Oaxaca, studying under notable artists like Shinzaburo Takeda and Raul Herrera. Acevedo further expanded his education through workshops with artists such as Isis Rodriguez and Marietta Bernstorff. As an assistant in print studios for artists Demian Flores and Alejandro Santiago, he gained valuable experience. 

In 2010, Acevedo moved to Riverside, California, engaging in printmaking projects with a focus on social justice and educational awareness in communities of color. Much of Acevedo's art explores migration, immigration, borders, and the dualities faced by immigrants in a new nation. 

Dystopia, 2019

Turtle Land, 2021

Fire Procession, 2021

Sources:

https://www.oaxacaprintmaker.com

https://www.instagram.com/pavel_acevedo/

https://www.speedballart.com/pro-artist-network/pavel-acevedo/

https://www.warnockfinearts.com/pavel-acevedo-prints-and-biography

https://pavelacevedo.wordpress.com

https://www.selfhelpgraphics.com/prints-2010-2020/pavel-acevedo-utopia-and-dystopia-2019

https://artsandculture.google.com/story/the-shell-in-the-clouds-by-pavel-acevedo-self-help-graphics-art/dQUh0tQCutrNhg?hl=en

https://riversideartmuseum.org/exhibits/2012-members-exhibition-award-winners-feature-pavel-acevedo/

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: "Of Course, I'm A MYLF"

This is a behind the scene IG reel for Teem Skeet (@teamskeet.official) of Pristine Edge (@pristineedge), Gigi Dior (@gigidiorsfw), Dee Williams (@gigidiorsfw), Millie Morgan (@real_dee_williams), and Doshi (@yesdoshi).

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by millie morgan (@milliemorganofficial)

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C51keKpy4Oy/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading

Frans van Mieris the Elder

Art Appreciation

Frans van Mieris the Elder, born on April 16, 1635, in Leiden, Dutch Republic, distinguished himself as a renowned painter of the Dutch Golden Age, celebrated for his remarkable ability to depict textures and fabrics with precision and skill. His passion for drawing emerged early in his life, leading him to study under prominent artists such as Abraham Toorenvliet, Gerard Dou, and Abraham van den Tempel. Under their tutelage, Frans honed his craft and eventually mastered the "fijnschilder" style, characterized by its meticulous brushwork and exacting execution.

Through his art, Frans van Mieris captured the opulence and prosperity of the Dutch Golden Age, offering glimpses into the lavish interiors and affluent lifestyles of the era's elite. His paintings serve as vivid reflections of the wealth and sophistication of the period, resonating with viewers through their technical brilliance and emotive depth. Today, Frans' works endure as timeless masterpieces, revered for their ability to evoke both admiration and introspection, ensuring his enduring legacy in the annals of art history.

Self-portrait (1667)

Woman Playing the Theorbo (1663)

A Man and a Woman (1678)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.pubhist.com/w40626

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Frans-van-Mieris-the-Elder

Body Art: Filippo Ioco - Bodypainting Shooting in Croatia

Artist: Filippo Ioco

Model: Anna Barendregt

 via World of Bodypainting

Dance: Kiesza - Hideaway

Choreographer: Ljuba Castot

Directed by: Kiesza, Lkuba Castot, and Rami Samir Afuni

Dancers: Leandro Alegria Silva, Janete Aide Silva, Valerie MsVee Ho, Marie Gumdrop Paldrup, Martina Android Heimann, Ebone Simone Johnson, LaShonna Holloway, Pierce Buttons Cady Penny

via lokallegend

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: CURVE NY VIP Lingerie Fashion Show 2024

Brands: NATORI Lingerie, CHANTELLE Lingerie, Elomi Lingerie, LEONISA Lingerie, Anita Since 1886 Activewear, ROSA FAIA BEAUTYFULL Lingerie, WACOAL Lingerie, Skarlett Blue Lingerie, Sculptresse Lingerie, Panache Lingerie, Nette Rose Lingerie, Aubade PARIS Lingerie, Noblesse Oblige Lingerie, Simone Perele Paris Lingerie

via MomentoTempus

Britney Spears - Oops!... I Did It Again

Music Appreciation

Released April 11, 2000, Oops!... I Did It Again is one of Britney Spears most iconic songs and music videos. 

Written and produced by Max Martin and Rami Yacoub, the upbeat and infectious pop hit tells a story of a girl who has broken a boy's heart yet again, "Oops!... I did it again, I played with your heart, got lost in the game."

The space-themed music video, which was directed by British music video and film director Nigel Dick, features Britney Spears dressed in a red latex bodysuit showcasing her impressive dance skills. 

via Britney Spears

Source:

Wikipedia

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: X-Men Origins - Jean Grey #1 (2008)

 

Ranch Dressing

I love ranch dressing -- after all, who wouldn't? I must confess to indulging in extra dressing on my salads and asking for ranch dips with my pizza order.

 By Adam Ellis @adamtots

Robert S. Duncanson and James P. Ball

Art Appreciation

Since my youth, I eagerly awaited the arrival of National Geographic and Smithsonian Magazine. I remember flipping through their pages, captivated by the photography and art within. Recently, my parents surprised me by renewing my subscription to Smithsonian.

As I leafed through the magazine, I stumbled upon an article by Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. He discussed a new exhibition uniting the works of Robert S. Duncanson and James P. Ball, two esteemed Black artists from the 19th century. In their prime, these artists, based in Cincinnati, gained international acclaim for their talent. The exhibition, held from September 15, 2023, to March 24, 2024, sheds light on the vibrant artistic community of that era, set against the symbolic backdrop of the Ohio River, representing the divide between slavery and freedom.

Duncanson's three chosen paintings portray scenes of refuge, subtly weaving abolitionist messages into seemingly serene landscapes, catering to his predominantly white audience while advocating for African American liberation.

James P. Ball, a trailblazer in daguerreotype photography, shares the spotlight with Duncanson in this exhibition. He showcases portraits of unnamed white subjects, possibly hand-colored by Duncanson himself. Ball's contribution to early photography, alongside figures like Glenalvin Goodridge and Augustus Washington, is further explored in an upcoming permanent collection installation, highlighting the democratization of portraiture through photography. As a curator dedicated to preserving Black artistic heritage, the inclusion of Ball's works underscores the pivotal role Black artists played in the struggle for equality, utilizing both the camera and the brush as instruments of empowerment during a transformative era in American history. 

This exhibition encourages visitors to reflect on the nuances of Black creativity in the 19th century and its lasting impact on the quest for justice and acknowledgment.

Landscape With Rainbow (1859) by Robert S. Duncanson

Unidentified sitter (1858-60) by J.P. Ball

Source: 

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/blogs/office-of-the-secretary-of-the-smithsonian/2024/01/05/robert-duncanson-james-ball-height-black-artistry-19th-century-america/

https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/ball-duncanson

Alison Angel

Modeling Appreciation

During the aughts, the decade 2000 to 2009, online adult picture sites where proliferate. FTV (First Time Videos) was one site that featured beautiful images and videos of first time models. One model that caught many of us men's attention was Alison Angel, a beautiful 5'8" blonde, with green eyes, an hourglass figure, and large areolas 36D natural breasts teen.

Born on April 7, 1986 in Athens, Tennessee, Christie Caudill, aka Alison Angel, began modeling on FTV when she turned 18. Alison Angel's popularity lead her to get her own website, AlisonAngel.com, in 2005, which featured softcore solo and lesbian scenes.

Her modeling career lasted until 2008, when Alison Angel retired from modeling to attend college and pursue a career in nursing. She now enjoys motherhood, while also being a social media influencer. 

What attracted me was how Alison Angel added a fun personality and glamour to her photos. She epitomized the ideal of female beauty. 

Sources: 

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

https://www.boobpedia.com/boobs/Alison_Angel

https://www.indexxx.com/m/alison-angel

https://babesdirectory.online/profile/alison-angel

https://twitter.com/AngelbunnyAA

https://www.instagram.com/christiefightingspirit/

http://www.nextdoormania.com/alison-angel-pink.php

https://www.yourdirtymind.com/galleries/alison-angel-makes-this-college-campus-sexy/

https://www.yourdirtymind.com/galleries/alison-angel-flashes-her-tits-on-her-road-trip/

http://www.nextdoormania.com/alison-angel-nighty.php

https://www.bigboobsalert.com/alison-angel-nurse.php

https://linktr.ee/christiefightingspirit

Cosplay is an Art: MegaCon 2024

via Justin Cosplay 

Album Cover: David Bowie - Black Tie White Noise

Album Cover

Album: David Bowie - Black Tie White Noise

Released: April 5, 1993

Photography: Nick Knight

Art Direction: Toni Wadler

Model: David Bowie

Edward Hicks

Art Appreciation

Born in Attleborough (now Langhorne), Pennsylvania, on April 4, 1780, Edward Hicks was a prominent figure in American folk art, known for his iconic depictions of peaceable kingdom scenes.

Hicks' early life was marked by adversity and hardship. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised by Matron Elizabeth Twining -- a close friend of his mother -- in Newtown, Pennsylvania. 

At the age of 13, Hicks was apprenticed to a coachmaker, where he learned the trade of painting decorative designs on coaches and carriages.

In the early 19th century, Hicks experienced a profound religious awakening that would profoundly influence his artistic vision. Inspired by the teachings of Quakerism, he began to paint scenes from the Bible, particularly those depicting the peaceable kingdom described in the Book of Isaiah.

One of Hicks' most famous works, "The Peaceable Kingdom," captures the essence of his artistic philosophy. The painting portrays a scene of harmony and tranquility, with wild and domestic animals coexisting peacefully alongside humans. It serves as a powerful allegory for the Quaker belief in the possibility of achieving peace on earth.

Despite Hicks' success as a painter, he struggled financially throughout much of his life. He supplemented his income by working as a sign painter and a preacher, often traveling throughout Pennsylvania to spread the Quaker message of peace and tolerance.

In addition to his peaceable kingdom paintings, Hicks also produced a series of landscapes and portraits, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His landscapes, in particular, are celebrated for their serene beauty and meticulous attention to detail.

Peaceable Kingdom (1826)

Washington at the Delaware (c. 1849)

Noah's Ark (1846)

Source:

Wikipedia

https://www.nga.gov/collection/artist-info.1396.html

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: The Last Starfighter (1984)

 

Max Ernst

Art Appreciation

Max Ernst, born on April 2, 1891, in Brühl, Germany, emerged as a pivotal figure in the 20th-century Dada and Surrealist movements, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.

Enrolling at the University of Bonn in 1909, Ernst immersed himself in a diverse array of studies, including philosophy, art history, literature, psychology, and psychiatry. His fascination with the artwork of mentally ill patients, observed during visits to asylums, sparked his initial foray into portraiture, capturing his sister and himself on paper.

The pivotal moment came in 1912 when Ernst attended the Sonderbund exhibition in Cologne, encountering the works of artistic luminaries such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Gauguin. Subsequently, his own pieces found a platform at Galerie Feldman in Cologne. Later, he drew inspiration from Giorgio de Chirico's paintings, leading him to embrace the technique known as Fiat modes.

Ernst's artistic odyssey took unconventional turns, notably his encounter with French surrealist poet Paul Éluard, forging a lifelong friendship. Settling into a ménage à trois with Éluard and his wife, Elena Ivanovna Diakonova (later known as Gala Dalí), in the Paris suburb of Saint-Brice, Ernst embarked on a journey that challenged societal norms.

Across varied mediums such as painting, sculpture, collage, and printmaking, Ernst defied conventions, exploring the fringes of artistic expression. Among his signature techniques was "frottage," where he applied pencil or crayon to textured surfaces, yielding intriguing and unpredictable patterns that mirrored the depths of the subconscious.

Thematically, Ernst's work plumbed the realms of dreams, mythology, and the human psyche. His canvases teemed with surreal landscapes inhabited by cryptic beings, blurring the boundaries between reality and fantasy.

The Triumph of Surrealism (1937)

Ubu Imperator (1923)

Marlene (1940)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.artnews.com/feature/why-cling-art-apocalyptic-times-max-ernst-1202688847/

https://www.menil.org/collection/objects/3782-marlene

https://www.nytimes.com/1976/04/02/archives/max-ernst-catalytic-figure-in-20th-century-art-dies-max-ernst.html

https://assets.moma.org/documents/moma_catalogue_248_300331282.pdf

Body Art: Weltmodell Academia de Modelos

 

via Weltmodell Academia de Modelos