Pole Dance: Jorja Smith - The One

Choreography: Miglena (@ThePoleDancer)

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Cosplay is an Art: YETICON YETI TORONTO CANADA COMIC CON 2024

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Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Isis Fashion Awards 2024

Isis Fashion Awards, the first Dutch show for accessories, highlights "underdog" designers, offering a platform for shoes, bags, jewelry, and more.

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Trump-tastic: His Never-Ending Reality Show

Pardon the Interruption

I've been following Donald Trump, and trust me, it's been a never-ending ride. Picture this: little me, boarding the Trump Shuttle from New York to Washington, DC with my dad. He'd use Trump's entrepreneurial spirit as a classroom lesson. Fast forward, I was a die-hard fan of The Apprentice, watching contestants tackle business challenges. Then came Celebrity Apprentice, where B and C-list celebs duked it out for Trump’s amusement.

In 2011, Comedy Central roasted Trump. I chuckled a bit, cringed a lot, especially thanks to The Situation from Jersey Shore. It subtly revealed Trump's disdain for being the butt of jokes. Leading up to the 2016 election, Comedy Central re-aired the roast on repeat, perhaps trying to humanize him. And it worked. A chunk of America fell for his unfiltered style. His presidency saw a loyal base, though many moderate Republicans secretly rolled their eyes.

When Trump lost the 2020 election, you'd think he’d bow out gracefully. Nope. He relished controlling the narrative, almost pulling off a government coup on January 6th. Like a snake charmer, he spewed words that kept his followers hooked. The far-right fringe loves this because if Trump returns, their extreme policies might see the light of day. Forget about blowing up the Constitution for one political ideology; there's a better way to make changes, through elections.

Tonight, two old-timers will debate. Both have held the presidency, both are old. Pundits have picked sides. The Trump camp, with right-wing media’s help, is setting up Biden as a drug-fueled debate wizard, while Trump plays the “common man” card. Fun fact: the so-called billionaire still begs for donations from your eccentric aunts and uncles to fund his legal and campaign bills. Why people send money to a billionaire, I'll never understand. One thing is definitely, he is no "common man."

So, grab your debate bingo cards, popcorn, and drink of choice, and enjoy the sh*t-show.

by Graeme MacKay

Source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2024/06/25/presidential-debate-bingo-card-2024-trump-biden/74171418007/

Barbara Edwards

Acting Appreciation

Born on June 26, 1960 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Barbara Edwards was Playboy's Playmate of the Month in the September 1983. She was then named Playmate of the Year in 1984. 

As in the title of her pictorial, Portrait of the Artist, Barbara was discovered as an artist by a high school teacher. The 1978 graduate of University High School in Irvine won an art scholarship to Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, California. She then transferred to Saddleback Community College.  

As stated in her playmate data sheet, her ambitions was, "To fulfill my dreams as a promising artist and actress and to contribute my share of help to the starving children of the world." Interestingly, she listed The Bible as her favorite book, and her ideal man to be an old-fashioned romance.

The 5'5" brunette went on to appear in a bunch of Playboy videos and special edition publications. She appeared in several low-budget films as well as TV series.

by Arny Freytag

Sources:

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0249816/bio

https://www.ocweekly.com/girls-gone-not-so-wild-6425633/

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

https://babesrater.com/gallery/12507/vintage-playboy-playmate-barbara-edwards

SCOTUS' Bump Stock Ruling and the Looming Battle Over Gender-Affirming Care

Pardon the Interruption

Recently, the conservative U.S. Supreme Court sided with a gun shop owner who surrendered two bump stocks to the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Federal law, enacted during a Republican administration, prohibits the transfer or possession of machine guns. Following a deadly mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017, the Trump administration reclassified bump stocks as machine guns.

For those unfamiliar with bump stocks, these devices, when attached to a semi-automatic firearm, enable it to fire hundreds of rounds rapidly by bumping the trigger against one's finger, eliminating the need to pull the trigger multiple times.

While I support gun rights, this decision, particularly Justice Thomas' explanation, concerns me. Thomas stated in the majority opinion, as reported by The Texas Tribune, that "a bump stock is not a machine gun because it cannot fire more than one shot 'by a single function of the trigger.'" Thomas elaborated on how the shooter can manage bump firing, asserting that a bump stock isn't a machine gun. However, the notion that individuals are developing "devised techniques for firing semiautomatic firearms at rates approaching those of some machine guns," as mentioned in Thomas' opinion, should prompt caution. This ruling implies that technology enabling rapid firing can be considered "approaching those of some machine guns," but not a machine gun.

Gun rights advocates praised the Supreme Court's decision, particularly the far-right fringe of the GOP, viewing it as a significant achievement. Now, the court is set to address the constitutionality of state bans on gender-affirming care for transgender minors.

This decision will have a profound impact on LGBTQ+ individuals, both minors and adults. As a parent of a transgender daughter, I worry about the broader implications for healthcare, particularly for adults who rely on medications to manage their gender dysphoria. In Texas, we are already seeing this with Texas Medicaid's decision to no longer cover gender-affirming care for transgender adults.

This issue extends beyond the transgender community. States are increasingly controlling individuals' reproductive healthcare. While the MAGA wing of the GOP focuses on creating chaos to "own the libs," their shortsighted actions risk infringing on everyone's liberties, including their own or their family's access to essential healthcare.

by Kevin Necessary

Body Art: Roustan - Aeon Flux

Model: Amber Carter-Laflamme

via Roustan

Emmanuelle Vaugier

Acting Appreciation

You probably recognize Emmanuelle Vaugier as Charlie Harper's love interest in the CBS sitcom Two and a Half Men. Or maybe her recurring role as Detective Jessica Angell on CBS crime drama show CSI: NY.

Emmanuelle was born on June 23, 1976, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. At a very young age, she found an interest in being on-stage and performing. She then started modeling at 14.

Her acting career started in the late nineties with her first appearance was on Highlander: The Series, in 1995, playing a model named Maria Alcobar. She would then appear in TV series and low budget movies such as Hysteria, Suddenly Naked, Police Academy: The Series, 40 Days and 40 Nights, and Charmed.

In 2003, she played the role of Jasmine in Secondhand Lions, which starred Robert Duvall and Michael Caine. She would then have a recurring role on Smallville as Dr. Helen Bryce, and One Tree Hill as Nicki before appearing as Mia on Two and a Half Men.

After "Two and a Half Men," Vaugier went on to appear in a variety of popular television shows, including CSI: NY, Lost Girl, and Potwins.

Vaugier is widely regarded for her versatility as an actress, with her ability to play both dramatic and comedic roles. The 5'7 brunette has also been praised for her natural beauty and poise, which have made her a popular choice for modeling campaigns and magazine spreads.

Sources:

Wikipedia

IMDB.com

https://www.mrdustbin.com/us/emmanuelle-vaugier/

https://www.emmanuellevaugier.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Infamous.pdf

https://www.emmanuellevaugier.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/dec-2002-article.pdf

Cosplay is an Art: MCM LONDON MAY 2024: Masquerade of Chaos

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Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Oscar de la Renta Resort 2025 - New York

Creative Directors: Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia

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Georges Dufrénoy

Art Appreciation

Born on June 20, 1870, in Paris, France, Georges Dufrénoy was a prominent post-impressionist painter celebrated for his vibrant and dynamic compositions. After attending the Oratoriens Catholic school, Dufrénoy decided to pursue a career in painting. He studied under Jean-Paul Laurens at the Académie Julian, where he developed his skills and cultivated a distinctive style.

Dufrénoy's art was greatly influenced by the works of Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne. This influence led him to incorporate bold colors and expressive brushstrokes into his paintings. Throughout his career, he exhibited widely, including at the prestigious Salon des Indépendants and the Salon d'Automne, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the post-impressionist movement.

Beyond his paintings, Dufrénoy made significant contributions to the art world through his involvement in several influential art groups, such as the Société des Artistes Indépendants and the Salon d'Automne. In these groups, he collaborated with other avant-garde artists of his time, further establishing his legacy as an innovative and influential artist.

Maison occupée par Victor Hugo sur la Grand’ Place 

à Bruxelles en 1851 et 1852 (1933)

Vases et broderies

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://artvee.com/artist/georges-dufrenoy/

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Pussy's Breakfast (1905)

 via Nineteenth Century Videos. Back to Life.

Kwitcherbichen, It's Only Fibrosis

I'll admit that my heavy drinking over the past few years has led to liver issues, serving as a much-needed wake-up call. Will I stop drinking entirely? No. I still enjoy wine, beer, and the occasional cocktail. However, it's clear that excessive drinking can harm the liver.

A couple of months ago, I fell ill, which you can read about HERE. In short, I was referred to a gastroenterologist for hepatic steatosis and elevated liver function tests. The specialist scheduled a fibroscan for me, a non-invasive test using ultrasound technology to measure liver stiffness and fatty changes. To prepare, I was instructed to stop drinking for six weeks, though I did sneak in a few glasses of wine.

After the fibroscan, I received the results: they found fibrosis, or scarring, in my liver. This is stage one, the beginning of liver damage. Fortunately, early-stage liver disease can be reversed. Limiting or abstaining from alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and following a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, can help reverse fibrosis.

I blamed COVID for my excessive drinking, but the truth is I've been abusing alcohol for a long time. When I stopped drinking for six weeks, I wasn't sure if I'd struggle. Am I an alcoholic? Would I miss it? Surprisingly, I didn't miss alcohol. I easily gave it up without any side effects. During those six weeks, my mind cleared, I lost weight, and gained more energy.

Does this mean I'll stop drinking entirely? No. I'll still enjoy a glass or two of wine, beer, or a cocktail. The key difference is that I won't be drinking excessively anymore.

By Dave Coverly (2008)

Giovanni Paolo Panini

Art Appreciation

Born on June 17, 1691, in Piacenza, Duchy of Parma, Holy Roman Empire, Panini was an Italian painter and architect, best known as a vedutisti for his expansive and meticulously detailed views of Rome.

From a young age, he trained under Giuseppe Natali, Andrea Galluzzi, and stage designer Francesco Galli-Bibiena before moving to Rome to study drawing under Benedetto Luti. 

Panini built his reputation as a decorator of palaces, and soon after, was admitted to the Congregazione dei Virtuosi al Pantheon. This led him to teach at the Accademia di San Luca and the Académie de France.

His works reflect the grandeur and classical beauty of Rome, capturing both its architectural splendor and vibrant daily life. Panini's art often blends classical and contemporary elements, making his scenes timeless yet immediate. Three of his most renowned pieces are "Ancient Rome," "Modern Rome," and "Interior of the Pantheon."

"Ancient Rome" showcases Panini's ability to merge historical accuracy with artistic imagination. This painting features an imagined gallery displaying Rome's most famous ancient monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Arch of Constantine. Each structure is depicted with meticulous detail, highlighting Panini's deep knowledge of architecture and his skill in rendering complex scenes. The painting serves as both a tribute to Rome's glorious past and a testament to Panini's talent.

In contrast, "Modern Rome" offers a snapshot of the city's contemporary 18th-century splendor. Like its counterpart, it depicts a gallery filled with paintings of modern Roman landmarks such as St. Peter's Basilica, the Trevi Fountain, and various bustling piazzas. This work displays Panini's expertise in perspective and composition and his keen observation of urban life and culture. Through "Modern Rome," Panini captures the dynamic interplay between the ancient and the modern, reflecting the city's evolving identity.

Lastly, "Interior of the Pantheon" is a stunning depiction of one of Rome's most iconic buildings. This painting immerses viewers in the grandeur of the Pantheon's interior, with its massive dome and harmonious architectural proportions. Panini's attention to light and shadow brings the scene to life, emphasizing the Pantheon's majesty and the skill of its creators. This work exemplifies Panini's ability to convey both the physical and emotional impact of architectural spaces.

Gallery of Views of Ancient Rome (1758)

Picture Gallery with Views of Modern Rome (1757)

Interior of the Pantheon (1747)

Sources: 

Wikipedia

https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/437244

https://artuk.org/discover/artists/panini-giovanni-paolo-16911765

https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/person/103K10

The Definitive Years of Mark Occhilupo

Celebrating it's 50 years in surf wear, Billabong highlighted Australian professional surfer Mark "Occy" Occhilupo. 

via Billabong

Cosplay is an Art: Comic Con Brussels 2024

via  Cosplay Cinematics (by Sevenblade Media) 

OneRepublic - Counting Stars

Music Appreciation

"Counting Stars," a song by the American pop rock band OneRepublic, is a standout track from their third studio album, Native, released on June 14, 2013. Written by the band's lead singer Ryan Tedder and produced by Tedder and Noel Zancanella, the song's infectious melody and reflective lyrics propelled it to the top of the charts in numerous countries.

The song's accompanying music video, directed by James Lees, enhances its popularity with compelling visuals. Filmed in New Orleans, Louisiana, the video features OneRepublic performing on the dimly lit ground floor of a building, interspersed with scenes of a religious revival service on the upper floor.

The congregation begins dancing, seemingly in sync with the song's tempo. Symbolizing the powerful and unpredictable nature of the song's theme, the floor collapses, causing one of the congregation members to fall through the floor and into the room where the band is performing.

Sources:

Wikipedia 

Send Nudes

In my forties, I ventured into the territory of asking a woman to send nudes for the first time. As our relationship progressed over a few months, our playful banter reached a new level. During a late-night texting session, we found ourselves sharing glimpses of our bodies, inevitably leading to a more daring exchange. Excited to receive a boob pic, I grabbed my phone, pulled my pants down, and snapped a photo of my penis. 

Eagerly anticipating a response to a risqué photo I sent, I grew anxious during the wait. Doubt crept in as I questioned if I had mistakenly sent it to the wrong person. Reassured that everything seemed fine on my end, I couldn't shake the fear that she might not have appreciated the image. An hour later, a text finally arrived—a simple smiley emoji.

Puzzled, I pondered its meaning without ever seeking clarification. Although our relationship continued for a few more months and eventually progressed intimately, the ambiguity of that smiley emoji lingered, leaving me wondering about its meaning.

 

By Adam Ellis @adamtots

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: DC Comics Super Heroes - Wonder Woman (TOY BIZ)

 

Gustave Courbet

Art Appreciation 

Born on June 10, 1819, in Ornans, France, Jean Désiré Gustave Courbet was a pioneering French realist painter and a leading figure in the Realist movement, challenging the conventions of Romanticism and Academic art.

Courbet believed that art should reflect society's true nature rather than idealize or romanticize it. His work often provoked controversy for its unflinching portrayal of everyday people and situations, making powerful statements about class, labor, and social justice.

One of Courbet’s most notable works, "The Stone Breakers" (1849), exemplifies his dedication to depicting life's harsh realities. This painting shows two laborers, a young boy and an old man, breaking stones by the roadside. The figures are presented in a naturalistic style, with painstaking attention to detail that highlights their worn, tattered clothes and the backbreaking nature of their work. By choosing such an unglamorous subject, Courbet drew attention to the plight of the working class and challenged the viewer’s perception of what was worthy of artistic representation.

Another significant example of Courbet’s social commentary is his masterpiece "A Burial at Ornans" (1849-1850). This monumental painting captures a funeral in Courbet’s hometown, featuring over fifty life-sized figures from various social strata, including mourners, priests, and townspeople. The composition and scale were revolutionary, as such grand treatment was typically reserved for historical or religious subjects. Instead, Courbet elevated a provincial event to epic proportions, emphasizing the universality and dignity of ordinary life. "A Burial at Ornans" confronted the social hierarchies of the time, asserting that the experiences of common people were as important and deserving of recognition as those of the elite.

Courbet’s determination to make bold social statements through his art extended beyond his choice of subject matter. He was deeply involved in the political and social upheavals of his time, particularly during the 1871 Paris Commune, where he played an active role in the revolutionary government. His artistic and political activities often intertwined, reflecting his belief that art should be a force for social change. Despite facing criticism and censorship, Courbet remained resolute in his mission to depict the world as he saw it, laying the groundwork for future generations of artists to explore and express the complexities of contemporary life without compromise.

The Stonebreakers (1849)

A Burial at Ornans (1849-1850)

Nude Woman with a Dog (1861–62)

The Source (1868)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://smarthistory.org/courbet-the-stonebreakers/

"Gustave Courbet: A Biography" by Laurence P. Sherwood

The Art Story Foundation: Gustave Courbet

The Art Story: Gustave Courbet

"The Realist Vision" by Peter Brooks

Louvre Museum: The Stone Breakers by Gustave Courbet

Musée d'Orsay: A Burial at Ornans by Gustave Courbet

"Courbet and the Modern Landscape" by Kathryn Calley Galitz

Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History: Gustave Courbet

Miriam Weeks (a.k.a. Belle Knox)

Acting Appreciation

If you are my age and into adult entertainment, you probably remember the headlines about Miriam Weeks, also known as Belle Knox. A freshman at Duke University, her secret persona was revealed by a fellow student. In response, she embraced her new reality and highlighted the double standards sex workers face from those who seek their services.

Born in San Antonio, Texas, on June 9, 1995, Miriam Weeks grew up as an Army brat and excelled in high school, participating in the debate club. The 5'4" half-Canadian, half-Punjabi Indian American was accepted to Duke University, where she majored in women's studies and sociology. Although she took a break from her studies after her side job was exposed, she returned and graduated from Duke, debt-free, in 2016.

Her career in adult entertainment included work with sites such as Bang Bros, Naughty Midwest Girls, and Passion HD. In 2015, she was awarded an XBIZ Award for Marketing Campaign of the Year.

Sources:

wikipedia

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

https://www.freeones.com/belle-knox/feed

https://www.indexxx.com/m/belle-knox

https://www.thenude.com/_28342.htm

https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/duke-porn-star-no-longer-wants-to-be-associated-with-adult-entertainment-industry

Arthur Elgort

Photography Appreciation

Born on June 8, 1940 in Brooklyn, New York City, Arthur Elgort is a well-known and respected figure in the world of fashion and photography. 

He developed a passion for the arts from a young age. He enrolled at Hunter College with a plan to major in painting and art history. Although he studied painting, his true passion was in photography. 

Elgort's talent was evident, and his unique approach to photography quickly gained attention. What sets Elgort apart is his ability to capture the energy and spontaneity of his subjects. His signature style moved away from the rigid studio setting and opt more outdoors and candid moments. His photographs have an inherent dynamism that draws viewers into the frame, making them feel like active participants in the scene.

Elgort's career skyrocketed when he started working for Vogue magazine in the 1970s. His photographs graced the pages of the iconic publication, capturing the essence of fashion and celebrity culture with an unmatched flair. He became renowned for his fashion editorials that showcased not only the clothes but also the personalities of the models. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Elgort has collaborated with countless fashion designers, models, and celebrities. His portfolio includes iconic shots of supermodels such as Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and Linda Evangelista, as well as renowned artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Elgort's photographs have become cultural touchstones, defining eras and leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion and popular culture.

Beyond the glossy pages of magazines, Elgort's work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide. Arthur Elgort's impact on the world of photography is immeasurable. His unique style, characterized by spontaneity, movement, and a touch of whimsy, has inspired generations of photographers and artists.

Cindy Crawford, New York City, Vogue (1987)

Christy Turlington, New York City (1987)

Karl Lagerfeld, Miami (2008)

Gia, Fire Island (1981)

Sources:

http://www.arthurelgort.com/

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

http://www.vogue.com/tag/photographer/arthur-elgort/

https://www.artsy.net/artwork/arthur-elgort-cindy-crawford-new-york-city-vogue

https://www.vogue.com/article/azzedine-alaia-arthur-elgort-freedom-exhibition

https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/communications/pressroom/news/arthur-elgort-64-who-applied-a-new-lens-to-fashion-photography-receives-honorary-doctorate/?searchterm=

Cosplay is an Art: Monsterpalooza 2024

via Justin Cosplay 

James Barnor

Photography Appreciation 

James Barnor, born in Accra, Gold Coast (now Ghana), on June 6, 1929, is a trailblazing photographer whose work spans street and studio photography, as well as photojournalism. Barnor's journey into photography began in his youth when the headmaster of his missionary school gave him a Kodak Brownie 127, a simple plastic camera, to play with. This early exposure ignited a passion for capturing images that would eventually lead him to become one of Ghana's most influential photographers.

His candid shots offer a window into the daily experiences of Ghanaians during the post-independence era. Barnor's street photographs are not just snapshots; they are rich, historical records that document the cultural and social transformations of Ghana from the 1950s onwards. His work provides an intimate look at the lives of ordinary people, their celebrations, struggles, and the evolving landscape of a nation in flux.

In the studio, Barnor's photography took on a different, yet equally impactful, form. He opened his studio, Ever Young, in Accra, where he crafted meticulously composed portraits that blended traditional Ghanaian aesthetics with contemporary styles. His studio portraits, often featuring individuals in fashionable attire or traditional clothing, highlighted the intersection of heritage and modernity. 

As a photojournalist, Barnor's work extended beyond Ghana to the UK, where he captured the lives of the African diaspora in London during the 1960s and 1970s. His images provided a crucial narrative of African immigrants' experiences, bridging cultures and continents with his compelling visual storytelling. 

Breakfast with Roy Ankrah aka "The Black Flash" (1952-53)

Selina Opong, Policewoman #10 (1954)

Mike Eghan, Piccadilly Circus (1967)

J Peter Dodoo Jnr., Yoga student of "Mr Strong" (1955)

Sources: 

Wikipedia

https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/james-barnor

https://dia.org/jamesbarnor

https://post.moma.org/the-ever-young-photographer-james-barnor/

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: What Happens AFTER Nuclear War?

 

via Kurzgesagt- In a Nutshell

Dance: Tinashe - Nasty

 Choreography: Jojo Gomez

via Tinashe

Cosplay is an Art: MomoCon 2024

via Justin Cosplay