Cosplay is an Art: San Diego Comic Con 2024

via Justin Cosplay 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: The Chloé Winter 2024 Show

Creative Director: Chemena Kamali.

via Chloé

Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres

Art Appreciation

Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, born on August 29, 1780, in Montauban, France, was a pivotal figure in the Neoclassical movement, which sought to revive the ideals of ancient Greek and Roman art. 

From a young age, Ingres was immersed in the arts; his father, a sculptor and painter, nurtured his talents early on. At the age of 17, Ingres moved to Paris to study under Jacques-Louis David, the leading Neoclassical painter of the time. This period was formative for Ingres, as he absorbed the principles of order, clarity, and idealized beauty that would define his work.

Ingres’s rise to fame was not immediate. His early career was marked by struggles to gain recognition within the Parisian art scene. However, his fortunes changed dramatically with the Salon of 1824. At this prestigious exhibition, Ingres’s painting The Vow of Louis XIII garnered significant acclaim. The work, which depicted King Louis XIII dedicating his kingdom to the Virgin Mary, was celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail and harmonious composition. This success marked a turning point in Ingres’s career, establishing him as one of the leading artists of his time.

Among Ingres's extensive body of work, Portrait of Monsieur Bertin and The Turkish Bath stand out as masterpieces. Painted in 1832, Portrait of Monsieur Bertin captures the essence of Louis-François Bertin, a prominent journalist. The portrait is renowned for its realism and psychological depth, showcasing Ingres's ability to convey the character and status of his subjects with precision. The commanding presence of Bertin, with his intense gaze and imposing posture, makes this painting one of the most powerful portraits of the 19th century.

In contrast, The Turkish Bath, completed in 1862, explores a more sensual and exotic theme. This painting, depicting a group of nude women in a circular composition, reflects Ingres's fascination with the Orient and his mastery of the female form. The Turkish Bath remains one of Ingres's most celebrated works, illustrating his versatility as an artist and his ability to blend classical ideals with romantic sensibilities.

The Vow of Louis XIII (1824)

Portrait of Monsieur Bertin (1832)

The Turkish Bath (c.1862)

The Valpinçon Bather (1808)

Grande Odalisque (1814)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/459106

https://www.nga.gov/collection/artist-info.1411.html

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Monsters: The Marvel Monsterbus by Stan Lee, Larry Lieber & Jack Kirby

Cover Art by Jack Kirby (1960)

Happy LBJ Day!

 

Body Art: Elon University Students Learn Anatomy by Body Painting

via Elon University 

Pole Dance: Asa-Chang & Junray - Hana

Choreography: Julianna Kobtseva (@kobtseva)

via STRIPLAB

Cosplay is Art: Animagic 2024 | Rosengarten Mannheim

via REZATA 

Sleeping with Pets

In the initial stages of my first marriage, the connection my wife and I once shared gradually dissipated, especially in terms of intimacy. Initially, our closeness involved moments of snuggling reminiscent of our early years together, eventually leading to shared moments of intimacy. However, that dynamic abruptly ceased one day. Despite my inquiries and pleas, the situation did not improve. In a fit of immaturity, I resorted to protesting and, as a form of protest, opted to sleep on the couch.

Initially, she attempted to pusuade me back into the shared bed, but I stubbornly clung to my newfound sleeping arrangement on the couch. This persisted for years, becoming an established pattern in our relationship. The only exception was when we traveled, and even then, she made a point to sleep separately under a different cover, deliberately avoiding any inadvertent physical contact.

Throughout those five years, we continued to share the same shower and bathroom. Each morning, as I walked through the bedroom en route to my shower, I couldn't help but observe our two pets cozied up with her. Occasionally, I would also spot our child nestled in the mix. This observation added a layer of complexity to the situation because, even if I had wanted to resume sharing the bed, it seemed there would be no space for me amid the snug arrangement of our pets and child.

By Adam Ellis @adamtots

Archibald Willard

Art Appreciation

Archibald Willard, born on August 22, 1836, in Bedford, Ohio, showed an early talent for art by scribbling on barns and other structures around his home. This childhood passion for drawing and painting foreshadowed his future career as an artist.

Starting with humble beginnings as a basic wagon painter, Willard initially focused on simple, utilitarian designs. However, his talent and creativity quickly propelled him to create more elaborate and decorative works. His artistic journey took a significant turn when he enlisted to fight in the American Civil War, where the experiences and scenes he witnessed deeply influenced his vision.

Willard's firsthand encounters with the struggles and triumphs of war inspired many of his paintings, making him renowned for his depictions of wartime scenes. His ability to convey the raw emotions and dramatic moments of the Civil War allowed him to portray the human experience of conflict through his art, earning him a lasting place in American art history. 

Among his most celebrated works is "The Spirit of '76," an iconic painting that captures the fervor and resilience of the American Revolution with a drummer, a fifer, and a wounded soldier marching forward with determination. This painting has become a symbol of American patriotism and is widely recognized and celebrated.

The Spirit of '76 (1875)

Trotting Horse About to be Sold (1867)

Pluck (c. 1866)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.artnet.com/artists/archibald-willard/

https://marbleheadhistory.org/spirit-of-76-painting/ 

http://americanartgallery.org/artist/readmore/id/559

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Dschinghis Khan - Dschinghis Khan

via Dschinghis Khan

Alan Lee

Art Appreciation

Alan Lee, born on August 20, 1947, in Middlesex, England, is a renowned English book illustrator celebrated for his enchanting and meticulous artwork. He honed his craft at the Ealing School of Art, where he developed a distinctive style characterized by intricate detail and a deep sense of atmosphere. 

Lee's illustrations are known for their ethereal quality, which has brought to life the fantastical worlds of numerous literary works. His ability to capture the essence of mythical and historical narratives has made him a revered figure in the realm of book illustration.

Lee's most significant contribution to modern pop culture is his work on Peter Jackson's film adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic sagas, "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." His deep understanding and respect for Tolkien's vision were instrumental in shaping the visual aesthetic of these films. He was part of the conceptual design team, responsible for creating the iconic looks of Middle-earth, from the majestic landscapes to the intricate costumes and architectural designs. His illustrations served as a crucial reference point for the filmmakers, ensuring that the visual storytelling remained true to the source material.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2018/sep/03/alan-lee-jrr-tolkien-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hobbit-the-fall-of-gondolin

https://www.cbc.ca/radio/q/tuesday-september-4-2018-alan-lee-esi-edugyan-and-more-1.4808886/lord-of-the-rings-illustrator-alan-lee-takes-us-on-one-final-adventure-through-middle-earth-1.4808889

https://lithub.com/alan-lee-on-illustrating-j-r-r-tolkiens-the-lord-of-the-rings/

https://www.liliums-compendium.co.uk/post/alan-lee-gifted-gallery

Body Art: Vessel’s of Wisdom A Shot Fim By Yonga Arts 2024

via Yonga Arts 

Dance: Sabrina Carpenter - Espresso

Choreography: Neil Robles

via Studio North Toronto 

Cosplay is Art: OTAKON 2024 Washington, D.C.

via Patrick Goelz 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Patou | Spring Summer 2025

Creative Director: Guillaume Henry

via FF Channel 

Jack Tworkov

Art Appreciation 

Jack Tworkov, originally Yakov Tworkovsky, was born on August 15, 1900, in the border town of Biała Podlaska on the Poland/Russia border. In 1913, he immigrated to the United States along with his mother and sister to reunite with their father, who had arrived earlier.

Initially, Tworkov's interests leaned away from painting, leading him to enroll at Columbia University with aspirations of becoming a writer. It was his sister's encouragement that redirected him toward art, prompting him to attend classes at the Art Students League of New York.

However, it was during his time at Columbia University that Tworkov's path intersected with modernist ideals, eventually molding his unique artistic style. His creative journey was profoundly shaped by his interactions with notable artists and intellectuals of the era, including luminaries like Willem de Kooning, Hans Hofmann, and John Dewey. These encounters ignited his exploration of abstraction, propelling him into experiments that intertwined form and color.

Tworkov and de Koonig, in the company of fellow abstract painters such as Arshile Gorky, Mark Rothko, and Jackson Pollock, were instrumental in founding the New York School, a pivotal collective within the abstract expressionist movement.

Throughout his life, Tworkov assumed teaching roles in numerous institutions, leaving his mark at places like American University, Black Mountain College, Queens College, Pratt Institute, University of Minnesota, Columbia University, and Yale University, where he served as the Art Department's chairman from 1963 to 1969.

Jack Tworkov's influence on American Abstract Expressionism remains steadfast. His art bridged the gap between abstract concepts and intellectual depth, infusing each canvas with narratives that transcended mere visuals. He adeptly navigated the delicate equilibrium between structure and spontaneity, establishing a legacy that continues to inspire and challenge contemporary artists.

Red Robe (1947)

Pink Mississippi (1954)

Untitled (1954)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.wikiart.org/en/jack-tworkov/pink-mississippi-1954

https://jacktworkov.org/

https://www.vandorenwaxter.com/artists/jack-tworkov-estate

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: The Evolution of The Joker

http://imgur.com/t/infographic/aJ5vwpt

Three's a Crowd, Especially at Bedtime

I came across this interesting article interview in The New Yorker about a polyamorous throuple. As implied in the article, living in a polyamorous throuple comes with its unique bedtime challenges. 

Sharing a king-sized bed with two other people and an eight-pound dachshund can get a bit crowded, especially when navigating different sleeping preferences and negotiating mattress firmness. 

While polyamory sounds enticing, squeezing into bed with multiple partners and a pet often turns into a nightly game of "bedtime Tetris."

Body Art: Tony H Carné - Neon Sol

Model: Sol

via Tony H Carné Artist

John Mayer - Bigger Than My Body

Music Appreciation

Written by John Mayer, "Bigger Than My Body" marked the debut single released on August 11, 2003, from his second album, Heavier Things. The song's inspiration struck after Mayer attended a Coldplay concert, and his frustration of being unable to share music beyond his own physical being.

Directed by Nigel Dick, the accompanying music video showcases John Mayer strumming an electric guitar on a sidewalk while passersby hurry past him, captivated by a wall of speakers. A young Michelle Borth is momentarily entranced by Mayer but is drawn away by her friend. Undeterred, Mayer immerses himself in the crowd, steadily advancing to the front while continuing his musical performance.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.discogs.com/release/2742504-John-Mayer-Bigger-Than-My-Body

https://imvdb.com/video/john-mayer/bigger-than-my-body

Annie Lennox - Walking on Broken Glass

Music Appreciation

In the early 1990s, I found myself drawn to films that featured Regency era fashion, such as those adaptations of Jane Austen's literatures. So, it comes as no surprise that I was captivated by the music video for Annie Lennox's "Walking on Broken Glass." 

Released on August 10, 1992, the song was written and performed by Scottish singer Annie Lennox and was included in her debut solo studio album, Diva. The song is a powerful ballad that combines Lennox's soulful voice with a catchy pop melody. It was an instant hit, reaching the top ten in several countries and earning Lennox a Grammy nomination.

The lyrics of "Walking on Broken Glass" tell the story of a woman who is in love with a man who is emotionally distant and keeps her at arm's length. Despite his rejection, she keeps coming back for more, likening the experience to the painful imagery of walking on broken glass. This poignant metaphor, coupled with Lennox's emotive performance, resonates deeply with listeners. The song's blend of melancholy and hope, wrapped in an infectious melody, made it a standout track of the early '90s.

The music video adds an extra layer of allure with its Regency-era setting, featuring prominent actors such as John Malkovich and Hugh Laurie. Set in the opulent Prince Regent's Carlton House, Lennox plays the protagonist, dressed in royal red, lamenting over a breakup and overcome with jealousy when she sees her love interest with his new bride. The video’s lavish costumes and dramatic storyline perfectly complement the song's themes of love, loss, and longing, making it a memorable and visually stunning piece that has stood the test of time.

Source:

Wikipedia 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Marc Cain Fashion Show Spring/Summer 2025

 via Marc Cain

Source: https://www.designscene.net/2024/07/marc-cain-spring-summer-2025.html

Zebra Crossing (Abbey Road) in London by Iain Macmillan

Photography Appreciation

On a warm August morning in 1969, Iain Macmillan captured what would become one of the most iconic images in music history: the Abbey Road zebra crossing. 

With a casual stroll across the street, the Beatles transformed a simple pedestrian crossing into a symbol of an era. Dressed in their distinct styles, John, Paul, George, and Ringo walked in perfect rhythm, forever etching their legacy into the urban landscape. 

This spontaneous yet orchestrated snapshot not only graced the cover of the last album the group recorded but also immortalized the crossing, drawing fans from around the world to recreate their own steps in the footsteps of legends.

Source:

https://www.snapgalleries.com/portfolio-items/iain-macmillan/

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Marvel Spotlight #5: Ghost Rider (August 10, 1972)

 

Lajos Vajda

Art Appreciation

Lajos Vajda, born on August 6, 1908, in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary, was a prominent painter and graphic artist known for his significant contributions to Hungarian modernism. 

His early life was marked by a move to Serbia, where he spent his formative years before returning to Hungary to pursue art studies. Vajda enrolled at the Hungarian Academy of Fine Arts in 1927, where he was influenced by contemporary European artistic movements, including Surrealism and Cubism. 

His exposure to these avant-garde styles profoundly shaped his artistic vision, leading to the development of a unique and evocative aesthetic that combined elements of folk art, religious iconography, and modernist abstraction.

Tragically, Lajos Vajda's career was cut short by his untimely death in 1941 at the age of 33, but his legacy endures. His work has been recognized posthumously as a crucial part of the Hungarian avant-garde movement. His innovative and introspective approach continues to inspire contemporary artists and is celebrated in exhibitions and collections worldwide.

Self-Portrait with Icon and Upward Pointing Hand (1936)

Still-Life on Pink Table (1934)

Ancient Vegetation (1940)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://salgotrust.org/loans?page=1

https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/838620

https://en.mng.hu/artworks/48437/

Yoga: Katie Clark - Yoga by the Pool

via Katie Clark 

Dance: Billie Eillish - Blue

Choreography: Erica Klein 

via Erica Klein

Cosplay is an Art: Oz Comic-Con 2024

via Itsamefigaro 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Berry Beachy Swimwear | Miami Swim Week 2024 | Haute Gala

Designers: Melanie and Robert Gonzalez

via Alain Moise

Alexis Emmi-Devlordge

Modeling Appreciation

While browsing Playboy Plus, I discovered the stunning Alexis Emmi-Devlordge. Born on August 1, 1999, in Berlin, Germany, Alexis initially worked as a zookeeper before transitioning to a modeling career.

In 2021, the 5'5" blonde with grey eyes and facial features reminiscent of model and actress Anya Taylor-Joy began modeling for Playboy. In her Playboy Plus biography, Alexis expresses her admiration for the brand, stating, "For me, Playboy is a very stylish, glamorous, erotic magazine. It is a big honor to be a part of it."

Sources:

https://www.babepedia.com/babe/Emmi_%28Playboy%29

https://www.thenude.com/Emmi_51097.htm

https://www.erocurves.com/emmi-in-black-lingerie/