Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Balenciaga Spring 2025 Collection

Creative Director: Demna Gvasalia

via Balenciaga

Robert Ryman

Art Appreciation

Robert Ryman was an influential American painter renowned for his monochrome, minimalist, and conceptual art. Born on May 30, 1930, in Nashville, Tennessee, Ryman initially pursued a career in jazz saxophone before moving to New York City in 1953. While working as a security guard at the Museum of Modern Art, he was inspired by abstract expressionist artists and began experimenting with painting. His close relationships with artists like Sol LeWitt and Dan Flavin, along with his exposure to abstract expressionism, profoundly shaped his artistic journey.

Ryman's work is distinguished by abstract, white-on-white paintings that emphasize the materiality and process of painting rather than representational imagery. He described himself as a "realist," focusing on the real light and space within his compositions. Throughout his career, he experimented with various media and surfaces, including canvas, metal, and fiberglass. His innovative approach often involved attaching paintings to walls with custom metal brackets, highlighting the physical presence of his works.

Ryman's contributions to art were widely recognized through numerous exhibitions and retrospectives. His first solo show was at the Paul Bianchini Gallery in New York in 1967, followed by his first European show in 1968. In 1972, he had his first solo museum exhibition at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, displaying 38 of his works from 1965 to 1971. A major retrospective of his paintings, organized by the Tate Gallery in 1993-94, showcased his work at prominent museums worldwide. Ryman's pieces are part of major collections, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Tate in London.

While primarily known for his paintings, Ryman also made significant contributions to printmaking, exploring various techniques and materials with the same experimental spirit. He received numerous accolades, including a Guggenheim Fellowship and the Praemium Imperiale. Ryman's legacy endures through his innovative approach to minimalism and his emphasis on the intrinsic qualities of materials, challenging viewers to engage deeply with his art. His work continues to be celebrated in major exhibitions, such as the 2024 retrospective at the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris.

Series #11 (White), 2003

Untitled, c. 1962

Classico 5, 1968

Source: 

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

https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2019/feb/11/robert-ryman-painter-appreciation

https://www.davidzwirner.com/artists/robert-ryman

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/09/obituaries/robert-ryman-minimalist-painter-dies.html

https://www.moma.org/artists/5098

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Tony Stark Iron Man - Issue 1 (Variant Edition)

 

Beck - Where It's At

Music Appreciation

Beck's "Where It's At" debuted on May 28, 1996, marking the first single from his fifth album, Odelay (1996), under the labels DGC and Bong Load. Renowned for its distorted melodies and infusion of hip hop rhythms, the track stands as one of Beck's most celebrated compositions.

The accompanying music video, directed by Steve Hanft, mirrors Beck's trademark fusion of musical styles through a dynamic collage of eclectic visuals. Capturing Beck's idiosyncratic persona, the video portrays him engaging in a range of activities, from picking up litter along a highway to performing in a strip mall parking lot. Additionally, Beck pays homage to William Shatner's iconic rendition of "Rocket Man," further enhancing its eclectic appeal.

Sources:

Wikipedia

Body Art: Half Body Art On A Black Woman 2024 By Yonga Arts

via Yonga Arts

Dance: FORTNIGHT - Taylor Swift Dance

Choreography: Matt Steffanina & Dytto

via Matt Steffanina

Cosplay is an Art: Comic Con Cape Town 2024

via Primal Nerdz

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Gucci Cruise 2025 Fashion Show

Creative Director: Sabato De Sarno

via Gucci 

Clarence Sinclair Bull

Photographer Appreciation 

Clarence Sinclair Bull possessed an extraordinary talent for capturing timeless and iconic portraits during the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Born on May 22, 1896, in Sun River, Montana, Bull's early fascination with the stunning landscapes of Montana ignited a passion for photography within him.

In 1920, his photography journey started when Samuel Goldwyn hired him to capture stills, paving the way for him to become the chief portrait photographer at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), where he dedicated over four decades of his life.

Bull's signature style was defined by meticulous attention to detail and an innate ability to unveil the essence of his subjects. He adeptly portrayed the glamour and elegance of Hollywood's golden era, featuring iconic faces like Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, and Hedy Lamarr.

Tragically, on June 8, 1979, Bull passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy. His exceptional work is enshrined in esteemed collections, including those at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, and the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Clarence Sinclair Bull's legacy in the realm of portrait photography is a testament to his unparalleled talent and unwavering dedication to the craft. His knack for capturing the true essence and unique personalities of Hollywood's stars through his lens remains an enduring achievement, inspiring generations of photographers to come.

Judy Garland (1934)

Greta Garbo (1939)

Hedy Lamarr (1940)

Charles Laughton (1932)

Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy (1944)

Source:

Wikipedia

https://www.artnet.com/artists/clarence-sinclair-bull/

Oops... Dropped my Eraser

Nervously, I rushed into the downtown office building for my scheduled interview. As I walked in, a young, attractive receptionist greeted me with a radiant smile. She wore a black business coat and had her hair pinned up, exuding a professional yet captivating presence.

After confirming my appointment, she stood up and escorted me to the office. Her skirt and high heels perfectly showcased her figure, and I couldn't help but feel an instant attraction. Little did I know, this moment would mark the beginning of an office romance that would last a couple of years.

Initially, we spent extra hours at work, getting to know each other as friends. Although I was single, she was married with a toddler, so we had to keep our growing intimacy discreet.

Soon, our relationship became more passionate. We found ourselves making love in offices, the restroom, and even the office hallway and behind the reception desk. Every moment memorable.

Edmond Kiraz (Playboy, May 1976)

Bronson Pinchot

Acting Appreciation

If you are around my age and enjoyed watching ABC sitcoms, you probably remember Balki from Perfect Strangers. He was played by American actor Bronson Pinchot.

Born on May 20, 1959, in New York City, Bronson Alcott Pinchot is a versatile actor whose career spans various notable films, including Risky Business (1983), Beverly Hills Cop (1984), True Romance (1993), and The First Wives Club (1996). Beyond acting, Pinchot has also made significant contributions as an audiobook narrator, recording over 100 audiobooks by 2014. His work in narration has been widely recognized, earning him accolades such as the Best Voice in Fiction & Classics by AudioFile magazine and Audible.com's Narrator of the Year in 2010.

Although I love him as Balki, my favorite character is probably Serge, the flamboyant art gallery assistant from Beverly Hills Cop.

via MovieClips

Source: Wikipedia

Kimber Cox

Modeling Appreciation

From the vibrant city of Houston, Texas, Kimber Cox, a vivacious 5'5" blonde bombshell, embraced her upbringing with a hint of tomboy charm. 

In a serendipitous turn of events in 2008, she crossed paths with Holly Madison, once the girlfriend of Hugh Hefner, during a 4th of July celebration at the legendary Playboy Mansion. This chance encounter sparked an invitation to pose for Playboy, setting Cox on a trajectory back to the world of modeling after initially venturing into real estate as a property manager. Her magnetic personality drew her back to the spotlight, culminating in her debut nude shoot for Playboy Plus in April 2014.

In her Playboy Plus biography, Kimber confesses her fondness for men who wear cologne, stating, "That really gets my attention. But smarts and sense of humor should take it from there." With an irresistible blend of warmth and ambition, Kimber embodies a genuine love for both people and animals, captivating those around her with her infectious energy and Southern charm.

Sources:

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

https://www.babeimpact.com/kimber-cox-peels-off-her-tight-bodysuit/

https://www.thenude.com/Kimber_Cox_43182.htm

https://www.playboyplus.com/profile/kimber-cox?nats=MzY5MDk3LjYuMTAyMy4xMDY5LjAuMC4wLjAuMA

https://www.indexxx.com/m/kimber-cox

https://babesrater.com/person/43019/kimber-cox?page=3&pageHot=1

https://m.imdb.com/name/nm8804787/bio/

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Valentino Le Noir Fall 2024

Creative Director: Pierpaolo Piccioli

via Valentino 

Dinah Coakley

Art Appreciation 

Dinah Coakley's artistic journey is deeply rooted in her upbringing within a dynamic and ever-changing environment, shaped by the presence of a single mother navigating the complexities of mental illness. Drawn to the homes and belongings of childhood companions, Coakley found solace and inspiration in the stories embedded within these domestic artifacts, each item serving as a tangible link to memories of the past.

Embracing the Watercolor Monoprinting process, she infuses her work with a radiant brilliance unique to the medium, often employing a repeatable matrix to capture the fluidity of watercolor. Utilizing relief and intaglio techniques, Coakley meticulously crafts plates that embody the essence of her artistic vision, blending control with the spontaneity of her creative process. 

Gypsy Cat, Relief Print

Nature/Nurture letterpress, dry point, relief

Winged Victory Watercolor monoprint, intaglio

Sources:

http://www.dinahcoakley.com/about.html

https://www.instagram.com/dcpressworks/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCPressWorks

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: DC COMICS - Wonder Woman #72 (1993)

 

Album Cover: Beyoncé - Crazy in Love ft. Jay-Z

Album Cover

Album: Beyoncé - Crazy in Love ft. Jay-Z

Released: May 14, 2003

Model: Beyoncé

Photographer: Markus Klinko and Indrani Pai-Chaudhuri

Source: https://www.classicrockhistory.com/top-10-beyonce-album-covers/

Body Art: Krystian Zawada - Sasha (Wonder Woman)

Artist: Krystian Zawada

Model: Sasha

via Krystian Zawada

Gianna Dior

Acting Appreciation 

Gianna Dior, born on May 12, 1997, is an American adult entertainment actress who is celebrated for clinching multiple prestigious awards, notably the 2020 AVN Award for Best New Starlet and the 2022 AVN Award for Female Performer of the Year.

Raised in a military family, she lived in numerous cities. Following her high school graduation, she pursued psychology at Auburn University.

While juggling two jobs as a waitress in a restaurant and a receptionist at an eye doctor's office, fate intervened when an agent reached out to her via Tinder with an offer to shoot an adult scene. Her foray into the industry commenced with her debut for Reality Kings in May 2018, at the age of 21.

Later that summer, the 5'4" brunette was named Penthouse Pet of the Month for September followed by the prestigious honor of Penthouse Pet of the Year.

Eager to propel her career to greater heights, she sought representation from Mark Spiegler, a renowned figure in the industry. Before long, she found herself gracing the screens of adult film enthusiasts through productions by acclaimed studios such as Evil Angel and Jules Jordan Video. Dior's ascent to the upper echelons of the adult entertainment industry was marked by a string of notable awards and accolades, solidifying her position as a prominent figure within the field.

Sources:

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

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

https://www.babepedia.com/babe/Gianna_Dior?utm_source=boobpedia&utm_medium=referral

https://avn.com/porn-stars/avn-789756.html

https://www.adultempire.com/698368/gianna-dior-pornstars.html

https://interviews.adultdvdtalk.com/gianna-dior/

https://www.indexxx.com/m/gianna-dior

https://twitter.com/TheGiannaDior

Cosplay is an Art: Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo

via Justin Cosplay

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: CHANEL Cruise 2024/25 Show

Creative Director: Virginie Viard 

via CHANEL 

Carlos Barberena

Art Appreciation

Carlos Barberena is a Contemporary Nicaragua-born, Chicago-based printmaker best known for creating intricately carved, monochromatic linocut prints that depicts images from pop culture, political and cultural movements, especially migrants from Latin America.

I CAN’T BREATHE / George Floyd (2020)

EXODUS (2019)

E PLURIBUS UNUM (2017-2018)

Sources:

https://www.carlosbarberena.com/

https://frederickholmesandcompany.com/carlos-barberena/

https://borderlessmag.org/2021/12/08/carlos-barberena-prints-humanize-immigrant-stories-chicago-artist/

"The Test Came Back. You Have Everything."

Like many, I tend to avoid doctor visits until I'm at death's door. A month ago, that was my reality.

The week prior, my fiancee and I indulged in a cheese binge, which unsurprisingly left me feeling backed up. Then, a weekend outing led to consuming a dish that didn't sit well, accompanied by a night of drinking. The next day, I felt awful. My stomach churned, bloating ensued, and soon, a fever gripped me for three relentless days.

Finally resorting to Miralax, I sought medical help as my fever persisted. Vitals were checked, blood drawn, and an ultrasound of my abdomen scheduled.

Results confirmed a battle within me. Antibiotics were prescribed, targeting what my doctor suspected was a sinus infection exacerbating my belly woes.

The ultrasound revealed a fatty liver, no surprise given my increased alcohol intake post-divorce. I had shifted from hard liquor to wine for its reputed health benefits, then to beer for its affordability upon starting my current relationship. Unfortunately, beer's caloric payload left me bloated despite regular exercise.

Ahead of my gastroenterologist appointment, I preemptively decided to halt daily drinking, a routine I'd fallen into. Two weeks sober, I savored my first beer with friends, noticing nuanced flavors once obscured by habit.

It's easy to overlook alcohol's impact until it manifests in our health. My ordeal was a stark reminder: heavy drinking exacts a toll.

by Mark Parisi

Tessa Violet - I Like (the idea of) You

Music Appreciation

If you're anything like me, you've likely found yourself in a situation where you're aware the other person isn't fully invested, yet you can't help but be drawn to the idea of pursuing them. Tessa Violet's "I Like (the idea of) You" resonates deeply with those experiences.

Featured on her second album, "Bad Ideas" (2018), the song captures the essence of infatuation with striking clarity. In a candid interview with MTV News, Violet delves into the inspiration behind the track, recounting moments of obsession: "Replaying the way he said my name on the phone, imagining what I would wear or say the next time I saw him, thinking of things I could write about him." Despite recognizing the futility of the situation, there's a sense of empowerment in indulging these fantasies: "I remember that I could logically see it wasn't going anywhere, so I thought maybe I should feel embarrassed about how much time I was spending on him. But it didn't make me feel embarrassed, it made me feel sexy and powerful."

The accompanying music video, directed by Jade Ehlers and choreographed by Kayla Kalbfleisch, adds another layer of depth to the song's narrative. Released in May 2019, the video features Violet and a troupe of dancers clad in black mesh stockings and loose-fitting sweaters over leotards. Their expressive movements mirror the whirlwind of emotions depicted in the song, capturing the intoxicating allure of infatuation.

Together, "I Like (the idea of) You" and its music video offer a poignant exploration of the complexities of desire and the allure of romantic fantasy. With its infectious melody and candid lyrics, this track serves as a reminder that sometimes, the idea of someone can be just as compelling as the reality.

via Tessa Violet

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.mtv.com/news/6w95h8/tessa-violet-i-like-the-idea-of-you-interview

Body Art: Jen The Body Painter - Jesse James West

via Jen The Body Painter 

Linda Lee Nelson

Art Appreciation

Linda Lee Nelson, the American Impressionist artist from St. Paul, Minnesota, remains somewhat enigmatic, with limited information available about her life. Born on May 5, 1963, she was not only an artist but also gained recognition for her dedication to designing a unique line of art materials tailored for individuals with physical disabilities.

Her artistic focus predominantly revolved around figurative painting, characterized by a distinct fusion of realism and impressionism. Nelson's artistic prowess was acknowledged through several accolades, with notable awards bestowed upon her by esteemed organizations such as Oil Painters of America and the Portrait Society of America.

Tragically, her promising art journey was cut short when she passed away in December 2020, leaving behind a budding and impressive art style that showed tremendous potential for growth and influence.

 

Inside Out

Boyfriend's Shirt

Olympia

Sources:

http://www.lindaleenelson.com
https://www.facebook.com/llindallindallindallinda
https://americangallery.wordpress.com/2014/01/25/linda-lee-nelson-1963
http://conchigliadivenere.wordpress.com/2014/02/21/linda-lee-nelson-1963-american
http://www.tuttartpitturasculturapoesiamusica.com/2016/10/Linda-Lee-Nelson.html
http://faso.com/artists/27255.html

https://www.principlegallery.com/new-talent-linda-lee-nelson/

https://www.catherinelarosepoesiaearte.com/2021/06/linda-lee-nelson.html

https://www.facebook.com/llindaleenelson/

https://faso.com/artists/27255.html

Cosplay is an Art: Emerald City Comic Con 2024

via Chong Ahn 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Ralph Lauren Collection Fall / Holiday 2024

via Ralph Lauren 

Source: 

https://apnews.com/article/ralph-lauren-fashion-8ce016530372a95244a5dcd44664f549

Désiré Charnay

Photography Appreciation

Born on May 2, 1828, in Fleurie, France, Claude-Joseph Désiré Charnay left an indelible mark on archaeology by introducing photography as a vital tool for documenting archaeological expeditions during the 19th century. His journey into exploration began during his tenure as a teacher in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he was captivated by the travel narratives of John Lloyd Stephens detailing the wonders of Yucatan, Mexico.

Driven by his fascination, Charnay embarked on numerous expeditions, the first being commissioned by the French Ministry of Education to Mexico between 1857 and 1861. Subsequently, he ventured to Madagascar, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to uncovering the mysteries of the world. However, it was his expeditions in Mexico and Central America that garnered the most recognition.

Charnay's expeditions were not merely about archaeological discoveries; they marked a turning point in the documentation of ancient civilizations. Through his pioneering use of photography, he meticulously captured the essence of ancient ruins and cultures, providing invaluable visual records of civilizations like the Maya and Aztec. His photographic legacy continues to enrich our understanding of Mesoamerican cultures, showcasing the intersection of archaeology and photography in unraveling the mysteries of the past.

Casa del Adivino, Chichen Itza (1882)

Palace of the Nuns at Uxmal (c. 1860)

Queen of Mohéli (1863) 

Les Femmes Malgaches (1863)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://archive.org/details/clevelandart-2021.41-palace-of-the-nuns-a

https://archive.org/details/LesFemmesMalgachesPlate28-NGA

https://www.artsy.net/artwork/claude-joseph-desire-charnay-casa-del-adivino-chich-n-itz-yucatan

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Tron Girl! (Lauren Francesca)

Written, Designed, and Directed by Tom Small

via The Key of Awesome