Happy Halloween!

 

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Ten Second Songs - Enter Sandman in the Style of David Bowie

Vincent Anthony, Mat from Artificial Fear, Talor Steinberg from The Moon City Masters of Guitar, and Rocky Yera perform Metallica's Enter Sandman in the style of David Bowie.  

via Ten Second Songs

From Debate Disaster to Political Plot Twists: The Election Saga No One Saw Coming

Pardon the Interruption

Back in June, I shared a bit about what was sure to be a memorable Biden-Trump debate. Little did we know, Biden's performance would lead to a political earthquake. After a rocky showing, pressure mounted from all corners of the Democratic party, urging Biden to step aside. Days before the Democratic National Convention, Biden withdrew, endorsing Kamala Harris to carry the torch. 

The GOP and Trump campaign scrambled, unprepared for this switch. Their attacks, crafted around Biden’s age and mental acuity, suddenly felt outdated. To regain traction, Trump went on the offensive against Harris, taking jabs at everything from her ethnic identity to her early career. He even falsely claimed she failed her bar exam—though she later passed and joined the California Bar. Then he questioned whether Harris actually worked at a McDonald's, which later resulted with him closing a McDonald's and working the fries in a political stunt. 

But the gambles weren’t paying off. Polls showed voters were warming to Harris, especially after her first debate with Trump. And then, Trump provided a viral moment when he claimed legal Haitian immigrants in Ohio were eating dogs and cats. The internet went wild, and Trump's comments on “illegal” immigration spiraled. 

Desperate for resources, Trump turned to none other than Elon Musk, who reportedly infused $100 million into Trump’s campaign and continues to use X (formerly Twitter) to push pro-Trump propaganda. Polls tilted slightly in Trump’s favor, and pundits like Tucker Carlson started framing him as the “angry dad” America supposedly needs.

Fast forward to the October 27 Trump rally at Madison Square Garden—a rally that, disturbingly, echoed the infamous 1939 “Pro-American Rally.” Trump and his allies railed against everyone from immigrants to journalists, giving us a glimpse of what a Trump 2.0 presidency might look like. One especially eerie remark hinted at a “secret plan” with Speaker Mike Johnson—foreshadowing possible chaos if things don’t go Trump’s way come November 5.

If there’s a clear takeaway, it’s that every vote matters. This election isn’t just politics; it’s a call to action. 

Bill Bramhall, NYDN (2024)

 

Body Art: Geena (AlienttrashKitty) - Monkey D. Luffy

via AlienTrashKitty 

Dance: Ángela Aguilar - La Llorona

via AJQuest Videos 

Cosplay is an Art: GREATER AUSTIN COMIC CON TEXAS 2024

via Mineralblu 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2024​

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made its much-anticipated return after a six-year break, and it was a total runway revival at the Brooklyn Navy Yard! Stars like Gigi Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Tyra Banks strutted their stuff, but it wasn’t just about the iconic angel wings and lacy lingerie this time. The show embraced a modern twist with sleek ponytails, bold smoky eyes, and, of course, a sprinkle of glitter. Chief Design Officer Janie Schaffer ensured the event stayed fresh, featuring plus-size and transgender models like Valentina Sampaio. A dazzling comeback with a diverse touch!

via Victoria's Secret

Sources:

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/hair/a62612168/victorias-secret-fashion-show-hair-makeup-photos-2024/

https://nypost.com/2024/10/19/entertainment/transgender-victorias-secret-model-valentina-sampaio-fires-back-at-critics-after-her-debut-at-fashion-show/

https://www.allure.com/story/victorias-secret-fashion-show-2024-review

https://www.salon.com/2024/10/16/why-is-the-victorias-secret-fashion-show-back-and-whats-changed/

Teikō Shiotani

Photography Appreciation

Teikō Shiotani, born on October 24, 1899, in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, was a pioneering figure in Japanese photography, particularly noted for his contributions to the shashin (art photography) movement in the early 20th century. His upbringing in rural Japan, amidst the natural landscapes of Tottori, deeply influenced his photographic style, which often featured serene, poetic depictions of nature. Unlike many of his contemporaries who gravitated towards urban landscapes, Shiotani sought to capture the quiet beauty of the countryside, using soft, delicate tones to emphasize the emotional atmosphere of his subjects.

Shiotani's primary tool was the Vest Pocket Kodak (VPK), a compact and portable camera that became popular among early 20th-century photographers. The VPK allowed Shiotani to explore new, more intimate ways of framing his compositions. His work with this camera was groundbreaking in its ability to translate the ethereal qualities of his natural surroundings into visual art. The use of the VPK, despite its simplicity compared to other professional equipment of the time, was pivotal in defining his unique aesthetic, which often involved soft focus and an emphasis on subtle gradations of light and shadow.

Shiotani’s work continues to be celebrated for its quiet elegance and its pioneering use of minimalist composition in photography.

Boy Priest Sitting (1929)

Bird's-Eye View of a Village (1925)

Source:

Wikipedia

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: KiaraBerry Cosplay - Shadowheart

via KiaraBerry Cosplay 

N.C. Wyeth

Art Appreciation

Newell Convers (N.C.) Wyeth, born on October 22, 1882, in Needham, Massachusetts, was one of the most influential American illustrators of the early 20th century. 

Raised in a rural environment, Wyeth's early life was deeply influenced by the New England landscape, which played a significant role in shaping his artistic sensibilities. Encouraged by his mother, who recognized his talent, Wyeth pursued his passion for art, studying under esteemed illustrator Howard Pyle at his school in Wilmington, Delaware. Pyle’s guidance was crucial in Wyeth's development, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in visual art. This mentorship, combined with Wyeth's fascination with adventure and the American West, defined his distinctive approach to painting and illustration.

Wyeth's early influences were diverse and deeply tied to the world of adventure and exploration. He was fascinated by the Wild West and its mythology, and in 1904, traveled to the West for the first time, immersing himself in the landscape and culture. This experience inspired much of his work, leading to illustrations that exuded authenticity and vivid imagery. 

His illustrations for popular magazines and novels, including works by Robert Louis Stevenson and James Fenimore Cooper, brought him national recognition. The combination of Pyle's training and Wyeth's firsthand exposure to the American frontier made his work resonate with audiences looking for tales of heroism and discovery.

Among his most well-known paintings are "The Giant" and "The Last of the Mohicans." "The Giant," painted in 1923, illustrates the grandeur and mythic qualities of the American landscape, reflecting Wyeth’s fascination with the natural environment and its almost otherworldly character. In "The Last of the Mohicans" (1919), created as part of his illustrations for the novel by James Fenimore Cooper, Wyeth captured the drama and intensity of the American frontier, using a dynamic composition and vivid color palette. These works are celebrated for their storytelling power, effectively merging illustration with a painter's sensibility, and solidifying Wyeth's legacy as a master of both the adventurous and the evocative in American art.

The Last of the Mohicans (1940)

The Last of the Mohicans (1919)

The Giant (1923)

The King's Henchman (1927)

The Alchemist (1937)

Sources:

Wikipedia 

https://collections.brandywine.org/objects/10955/the-kings-henchman?ctx=4c96b92e-eee9-463e-9dad-44a8df24a59b&idx=0

https://www.nocloo.com/n-c-wyeth-illustrated-books-art-gallery/

https://digital.sciencehistory.org/works/5t34sk21x

https://germanicmythology.com/works/WyethArt.html

https://collections.brandywine.org/ncwcr

https://www.americanartarchives.com/wyeth,nc.htm

https://youtu.be/CQBeSbGM3r4

Katie Vernola

Model Appreciation

Born on October 21, 1991, Katie Vernola’s journey began like a high-speed dream in Victorville, California. Even while in high school, she was booking modeling gigs, and soon after turning 18, she reached a major milestone—being selected by Hugh Hefner himself as the centerfold for Miss June 2010. This achievement made her the youngest Playmate featured in Playboy at the time, launching her into the spotlight with print publications and even a few acting opportunities. But Katie’s ambitions went far beyond posing for the camera; she had a true passion for something a little more rugged—off-road racing.

Katie’s love for off-roading took center stage as soon as she had the funds to fuel her dream. She bought her first Polaris RZR 900 and immediately turned it into a racing machine, ready to compete in the Lucas Oil Regional series. It wasn’t just about fun in the dirt; she was breaking boundaries as one of the few women in her racing class, determined to make her mark. 

Fast forward a few years, and Katie’s off-roading passion has only grown—she now races a Prolite in the Lucas Oil Championship Off-Road Series, participates in long-distance UTV events, and runs her own shop building and prepping race vehicles. Racing isn't just a hobby; it’s her lifestyle.

Beyond the track, Katie’s commitment to excellence is evident in everything she does. She spends her days building race vehicles and pushing herself physically to stay at peak performance. 

Sources:

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

https://twitter.com/KatieVRacing

https://www.instagram.com/katievracing

https://www.offroadexpo.com/industry-news/playmate-to-pro-lite-katie-vernola/

Dance: FIFTY FIFTY - SOS

Dancers: Fifty Fifty (Chanelle, Yewon, Keena, Athena, and Hana)

via hello82

Cosplay is an Art: SWIMSUIT COMIC CON COLOSSALCON TEXAS 2024

via mineralblu 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: CHANEL Spring-Summer 2025 Ready-to-Wear Show

Empty creative director

via CHANEL 

Source: 

https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2025-ready-to-wear/chanel

From Childhood Crushes to Classic Masterpieces: My Lifelong Appreciation of the Female Form

I've always had an appreciation for the female form, starting when I was just a kid. I think the first time I remember feeling that spark was when I fell head over little-kid heels for Lea Thompson in All the Right Moves, Rebecca De Mornay in Risky Business, and Brooke Shields in The Blue Lagoon. I mean, come on—those were some iconic crushes. Women are stunning, and what fascinates me is how incredibly different they all are, whether it's their hair, eyes, facial features, or, yes, legs and personality.

Movies were my first window into appreciating women in all their varied forms and personas. Then came art. My parents were pretty open-minded when it came to art, so our house had statues of Roman and Greek goddesses scattered around. We even had a replica of Michelangelo's David, though I was way more interested in the other statues—y'know, the ones that captured the essence of someone I couldn’t quite understand yet.

As I got older, my interest grew. I wanted to understand the beauty of women even more, which led me to the 'photography' found in magazines. Let’s just say, whether it was catalogs, women's magazines, Playboys, or actual photography books, I was a curious student. During college, I spent a summer in D.C. and visited the art galleries there. It was a revelation—seeing those incredible artworks of women brought something new that photography didn't. I could almost feel the artist's intent, the effort to depict not just what a woman looked like, but what she meant.

That feeling stuck with me, and it still does. When I go to art galleries or museums, I'm drawn to those classic paintings of female nudes—Botticelli, Goya, Bouguereau, Courbet, Frieseke—you name it. It might make my fiancé sigh or roll her eyes, but she really doesn’t need to worry. My admiration is just about the beauty of form, and honestly, to me, she’s the original masterpiece.

Buck Brown (Playboy, April 1969)

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Rammstein's Du Hast performed a cappella by Viva Vox

via Viva Vox

Niki Lee Young

Actress Appreciation

While watching videos featuring Mia Malkova, one scene that stood out involved an intense performance with Niki Lee Young. It featured Mia in a hot and intense lesbian scene with Niki Lee Young.

Niki, a striking 5'4" blonde known for her stunning figure -- perfect natural 34C breast -- was born on October 15, 1985, in Dobbs Ferry, New York. She began her career as a model and adult film star in 2010, earning the title of Twisty’s Treat of the Month in October 2012.

Tragically, Niki was diagnosed with stage 4 cervical cancer and passed away on November 11, 2018.

Sources:

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

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5400345/

Album Cover: David Bowie – "Heroes"

Album Cover

Album: David Bowie – "Heroes"

Released: October 14, 1977

Cover Photographer: Masayoshi Sukita

Model: David Bowie

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.discogs.com/release/774430-David-Bowie-Heroes

Dance: CHARLI XCX / BILLIE EILISH - GUESS

Choreography: Kyle Hanagami

via KYLE HANAGAMI

Album Cover: Pearl Jam - Vs.

Album Cover

Album: Pearl Jam - Vs.

Released: October 12, 1993

Photographer: Jeff Ament

Art Direction: Joel Zimmerman

Sources:

Wikipedia

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Ukraine Fashion Week Nadya Dzyak, Darja Donezz, and Omelia Collection FALL/WINTER 2024/2025

via FASHION 

Album Cover: King Crimson - In the Court of the Crimson King

Album Cover

Album: King Crimson - In the Court of the Crimson King

Released: October 10, 1969

Cover: Barry Godber

Source: Wikipedia

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Danse Macabre

by Magdalena Korzeniewska (@bubug_)

 

John D. Batten

Art Appreciation 

John Dickson Batten, born on October 8, 1860, in Plymouth, Devon, was an English painter, illustrator, and printmaker known for his association with the Arts and Crafts movement. 

He began his artistic career studying at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, where he developed a style characterized by rich, mythological, and folkloric themes. Batten was closely associated with his wife, Mary Batten, who also worked in the decorative arts, and together they contributed significantly to the revival of traditional storytelling through visual media. 

His works often depicted scenes from fairy tales and legends, reflecting his interest in the ethereal and mystical aspects of human experience. Two of Batten's well-known works are his illustrations for English Fairy Tales and More English Fairy Tales, collections compiled by folklorist Joseph Jacobs. These illustrations, filled with intricate details and vivid imagery, brought classic English tales to life, capturing the whimsy and mystery of traditional storytelling. 

Another notable work is his painting Pandora, a depiction of the Greek mythological figure as she opens her fateful box. In this piece, Batten combined a Pre-Raphaelite attention to detail with a sense of otherworldly elegance, portraying Pandora in a serene yet fateful moment that evokes both beauty and unease. His body of work remains an important part of the Arts and Crafts movement, which sought to elevate the role of craftsmanship and bring storytelling into visual art.

Pandora (1913)

Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (1897)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/6327

Romero Britto

Art Appreciation

Born in Recife, Brazil on October 6, 1963, Romero Britto is a Brazilian artist known for his vibrant, colorful style that merges elements of cubism, pop art, and graffiti. His work reflects themes of hope, dreams, and happiness, characterized by bold patterns and a playful approach. 

Britto has created art for notable brands such as Disney, BMW, IBM, Apple, Grand Marnier, and Pepsi. His public installations can be found in prominent locations like Hyde Park in London, the O2 Arena in Berlin, and John F. Kennedy Airport in New York, making him one of the most collected and licensed artists globally.

Britto faced a challenging upbringing in poverty. He studied art in Europe, drawing inspiration from masters like Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso. In 1988, Britto moved to Miami, where his studio is currently located. His first major break came when he was commissioned to design for Absolut Vodka's 1989 campaign. Over the years, his designs have graced a wide range of consumer goods, from Barbie dolls to pet collars. Britto is also known for his charitable contributions, having supported over 250 organizations.

Politically, Britto is a conservative, having hosted fundraisers for Republican candidates like Jeb Bush and Mitt Romney. He has publicly supported Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro, gifting him with a personal portrait in 2020. His political engagements often align with his artistic endeavors, merging his passion for art with his support for conservative causes.

Mona Lisa (2018)

Pure (2019)

Cheek to Cheek (2018)

Deeply In Love (2021)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.shopbritto.com/

https://www.parkwestgallery.com/

Galantis - Runaway (U & I)

Music Appreciation

On October 5, 2014, Swedish pop music duo Galantis released their hit song "Runaway (U & I)," which quickly became a global sensation. The track combines progressive house and electro-pop elements, characterized by its energetic beat and catchy chorus. It also features uncredited production work by Svidden, Julia Karlsson, and Cathy Dennis.

The accompanying music video, directed by Dano Cerny, features the Seafox, a recurring protagonist in Galantis' music videos. The video begins with Seafox being interviewed, where she shares her insecurities about love, saying, "I think when you've been burned by love it's hard to open yourself up again." The narrative follows Seafox through her daily life, showing her in her apartment, walking through the streets, and attending a Galantis concert, where she eventually dances with another Seafox.

The video’s blend of animation and live-action footage creates a whimsical and emotionally resonant story, enhancing the song's themes of vulnerability and connection. 

Sources: 

Wikipedia

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0148689/

https://www.discogs.com/release/6798439-Galantis-Runaway-U-I

https://galantis.fandom.com/wiki/Runaway_(U_%26_I)

Daryl Hall & John Oates - Out of Touch

Music Appreciation

My mom had a crush on Daryl Hall, perhaps because of his tall stature, lean build, and blonde, wavy hair. She enjoyed listening to and watching music videos of Daryl Hall & John Oates, with "Out of Touch" being one of her favorites. This song, from their twelfth studio album Big Bam Boom, was released on October 4, 1984. It became their last Billboard Hot 100 number-one single and marked their fourteenth consecutive top 40 hit since 1980.

Directed by Jeff Stein under the pseudonym Raoul Kark, the music video for "Out of Touch" begins with "Dance on Your Knees" and transitions into "Out of Touch." It features Hall & Oates dancing inside a gigantic bass drum, trying to escape as it flattens them. The duo is seen performing on a sound stage with large letters spelling BOOM in the background. In the video, Daryl Hall wears a leopard suit over a grey tee shirt and cowboy boots, while John Oates sports jeans and a white printed sleeveless tee shirt. The video ends with them playing with the band on the enormous drum set.

I can imagine filming this music video and seeing the final results was a lot of fun.

via Daryl Hall & John Oates

Source:

Wikipedia

https://musicvideo.fandom.com/wiki/Jeff_Stein 

Shenanigans & Debauchery

Pardon the Interruption

I was in my late 20s when I had my first bachelor party before my first wedding. Let me tell you, it was a night that went off the rails in every possible way. My groomsmen and I crossed the border into Mexico, aiming to kick off the "festivities" at a so-called first-class gentlemen’s club. By the time we rolled in, I was already pretty tipsy.

My buddy, let’s call him Charles, wasted no time calling over two petite, gorgeous Mexican girls to our table. Naturally, he let them know I was tying the knot the next day and needed a proper send-off. Well, the girls took that as their cue and whisked me off to the VIP area. What followed was... let's just say, "intense." One unzipped my pants, while the other got up close and personal with her assets. It was the kind of "celebration" that most guys dream about. I eventually tapped out, realizing I had reached my fun and money limit.

But the night didn’t end there. Nope. My friends kept the party train going, bribing some local police (true story!) and driving us straight into "boy's town," where things got even weirder. One of the guys suggested we check out a donkey show (yes, that kind of donkey show), but Charles had other ideas. He decided I needed some quality time with an Amazonian woman. Long story short, she led me to a room, unzipped my pants, placed a condom on me, and things got pretty wild. Soon after, I was back on U.S. soil, utterly exhausted. That was 21 years ago.

Fast forward to now, and here I am, on my way to Las Vegas with Charles and the crew for bachelor party round two. This time, it’s for my second wedding, and as a more “mature” man, I doubt it’ll be anything like my first. Let’s be real—stamina isn’t what it used to be, and honestly, I’m more into fine dining, craft cocktails, burlesque shows, and lounging by the pool. Sure, we might hit up a gentlemen's club for a lap dance or two, but I’m thinking this trip will be a bit classier.

Stay tuned...who knows, there may still be some shenanigans in store! 

I love how AI envisions a group of six middle-aged men partying in Las Vegas.

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Ryuu Lavitz - Tifa Lockhart

@ryuulavitz

 

Antonio Roybal

Art Appreciation

Antonio Roybal, born on October 1, 1976, is an American fine-art painter known for his distinctive style that blends surrealism with elements of fantasy and symbolism. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Roybal's work is heavily influenced by the rich cultural tapestry of the Southwest, drawing from Native American, Hispanic, and European traditions. 

His paintings often depict dreamlike scenes filled with otherworldly characters, vibrant colors, and intricate details. Each piece tells a visual story, exploring themes of identity, spirituality, and the human condition. Roybal’s work has been showcased in galleries across the U.S., earning him recognition for his technical precision and imaginative concepts.

Roybal’s artistic approach is deeply personal, reflecting his introspective nature and fascination with the metaphysical. His use of layered symbolism invites viewers to engage with his art on multiple levels, challenging them to find meaning in the juxtaposition of the familiar and the fantastical. 

Influenced by classical painters like Hieronymus Bosch and Salvador Dalí, Roybal brings a contemporary twist to traditional surrealism. Beyond the canvas, he has expanded into sculpture and mixed media, further broadening his creative expression. Roybal’s work continues to inspire audiences, resonating with those who appreciate the fusion of realism, mysticism, and the exploration of the subconscious.

One World

Judas

Bloody Mary

Sources:

Wikipedia

http://www.antonioroybal.com/

https://alibi.com/art/albuquerque-now-winter/#google_vignette