JoJo Austin

Acting Appreciation

JoJo Austin, a rising star from Caldwell, Texas, has quickly made a name for herself in the adult entertainment industry. Standing at 5'3" and weighing about 110 pounds, she embodies the petite blonde aesthetic, complemented by her striking blue eyes and a fit, toned frame. Despite her small stature, JoJo’s captivating presence and vibrant personality shine through, making her a fan favorite. 

Her journey into the industry began after already gaining traction on platforms like OnlyFans, where she showcased her playful and confident side as a content creator under the name Josie Lynn. At just 19 years old, JoJo has already garnered recognition, including being named Nubiles Flavor of the Month for March 2024. 

Her versatility and enthusiasm for exploring new experiences set her apart, as seen in her candid interview about her wildest on-camera scene. JoJo’s approachable personality, coupled with her openness to exploring her creativity, make her a standout figure in the industry. With a solid social media presence and growing fan base, it's clear JoJo Austin is on a trajectory to make a lasting impact in the adult entertainment world.

Sources:

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

https://allmylinks.com/jojoaustin

onlyfans.com/xoxojosephineee

https://www.thenude.com/Jojo%20Austin_55518.htm

https://www.indexxx.com/m/jojo-austin

https://www.iafd.com/person.rme/id=19cfb653-8675-453c-9d5d-e9407c25ea5e

https://www.babeimpact.com/galleries/jojo-austin-in-school-is-in/

https://www.erocurves.com/jojo-austin-takes-off-her-shorts/ 

https://www.xbiz.com/news/280202/jojo-austin-is-nubiles-march-flavor-of-month

https://avn.com/business/articles/video/jojo-austin-drops-nubiles-st-paddy-s-day-scene-for-flavor-of-mon-929436.html

https://www.smokingboard.com/post/interview-the-real-jojo-austin-cannot-be-imitated-nsfw

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm15489154/?ref_=tt_ov_st_1

James Rosenquist

Art Appreciation

James Rosenquist, born on November 29, 1933, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, was the only child of Louis and Ruth Rosenquist. His parents, both amateur pilots of Swedish descent, moved frequently in search of work, eventually settling in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Encouraged by his mother, who was also a painter, Rosenquist developed an early interest in art. He won a scholarship to study at the Minneapolis School of Art during junior high and later attended the University of Minnesota from 1952 to 1954. In 1955, he moved to New York City on a scholarship to study at the Art Students League, where he was influenced by abstract artists. 

While in New York, Rosenquist supported himself by working as a billboard painter, applying his skills to large-scale advertisements around Times Square. This experience profoundly influenced his artistic style. 

In 1960, he shifted his focus to fine art, utilizing his commercial art techniques to create large-scale paintings that explored the role of advertising and consumer culture in society. His breakthrough came with the 1965 exhibition of his monumental painting F-111 at the Leo Castelli Gallery, which garnered international acclaim. 

Rosenquist's art is characterized by the use of fragmented images from advertisements and popular culture, often employing elements of surrealism to emphasize the overwhelming nature of consumerism. Notable works include President Elect (1960–61), which juxtaposes a portrait of John F. Kennedy with consumer goods, and Marilyn Monroe, I (1962), reflecting his commentary on fame and media. His technique involved large-scale compositions that challenged viewers to consider the pervasive influence of advertising. 

Throughout his career, Rosenquist received numerous honors, including selection as "Art In America Young Talent USA" in 1963 and appointment to a six-year term on the Board of the National Council of the Arts in 1978. 

In 2001, he was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame. His works are held in major public and private collections worldwide, and he has been featured in solo exhibitions at institutions such as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. 

President Elect (1960-61)

Marilyn Monroe I (1962)

The Swimmer in the Econo-mist (1997-1998)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79805

https://www.jamesrosenquiststudio.com/page/f-111

https://www.guggenheim.org/artwork/93

"We Thank Thee for the Wondrous Bounty, Lord"

Doug Sneyd, PLAYBOY (November 2001)

Helen Reilly

Model Appreciation

Helen Reilly, also known by her many aliases like April Grantham, Eva Green, and Jess K, was a delightful presence in the modeling world with her natural beauty, charming tomboyish vibe, and that absolutely lovely smile that could light up a room. Born on November 28, 1995, in Seattle, Washington, her striking brown eyes, radiant teeth, and effortlessly slim figure made her a fan favorite from the start. 

Whether she was rocking a casual look or confidently showing off her perfectly proportioned body, Helen’s approachable and down-to-earth appeal made her stand out. Her unique mix of laid-back attitude and mesmerizing charm had fans and photographers lining up for more.

From her playful, confident shoots on platforms like COSMID, ZISHY, and FEMJOY, Helen always knew how to balance her tomboyish style with an air of elegance—nothing ever felt forced. 

With 20 covers, 16 photosets, and four videos to her name, Helen retired in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of smiles, beauty, and unforgettable moments. I wouldn't be surprised if she was swooped up by someone who couldn't resist that dazzling smile!

Sources:

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

https://www.boobpedia.com/boobs/Eva_Green_(Cosmid)

https://www.tribute-to.com/

https://www.eroticbeauties.net/

https://www.voyeurweb.com/

https://www.thenude.com/

Mark Kostabi

Art Appreciation 

Mark Kostabi, born on November 27, 1960, in Los Angeles to Estonian immigrants, carved out a unique path in the art world. Raised in Whittier, California, Kostabi studied drawing and painting at California State University, Fullerton, before making the leap to New York City in 1982. 

By 1984, he became a notable figure in the East Village art scene, winning the "Proliferation Prize" for appearing in more exhibitions than any other artist at the time. Known for his faceless figures, Kostabi's work often reflects on political, social, and psychological issues, blending influences from artists like Giorgio de Chirico and Fernand Léger.

Kostabi’s talents extend beyond the canvas—his creative endeavors have reached album covers for bands like Guns N' Roses and The Ramones, as well as various commercial products like Swatch watches and Alessi vases. In 1988, he founded Kostabi World, a large studio that employed a team of assistants, bringing a unique twist to the art production process. His artwork has been displayed in prestigious museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim, and his large-scale public sculptures can be found across Italy, emphasizing his wide influence and cultural reach.

Not content to limit himself to visual arts, Kostabi also has a passion for music, releasing several albums and performing alongside renowned musicians like Ornette Coleman and Tony Levin. He even produces a cable TV show, "The Kostabi Show," where art critics and celebrities compete to title his paintings. Known for his postmodern approach, self-citation, and occasional controversy, Kostabi remains a complex and intriguing figure in the art world—both celebrated for his prolific creativity and scrutinized for his outspoken personality.

Love at First Sight (2020)

Memories of Ecstasy (2022)

Embracing the Future (2019)

Sources:

Wikipedia

Nicole Sweet

Acting Appreciation

Nicole Sweet, born on November 26, 1988, in Budapest, Hungary, made quite a name for herself in the international adult film industry. Standing at 5'2" with an athletic build and natural 38E bust, her striking appearance and confident performances quickly set her apart, making her a fan favorite.

Kicking off her career in 2009, Nicole captured attention with her captivating blend of Eastern European charm and high-energy on-screen presence. As a bisexual performer, she’s worked with a variety of fellow stars like Chantal Petite, Celine Ange, and Eve Angel, amassing over 65 magazine covers and countless videos. By 2012, she had become a well-established figure in the industry.

It didn’t hurt that she reminded me of someone from my past, which piqued my curiosity enough to check out one of her casting couch scenes. Before I knew it, I was fully absorbed, imagining myself right in the middle of it all.

Sources:

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

https://www.pleasuregirl.net/eve-angel-and-nicole-sweet-super-sexin-it-in-bed-lesbo-style/

http://staging.thenude.com/Nicole%20Sweet_14379.htm

Revisiting 2016: Freedom of Speech in Jeopardy

Pardon the Interruption

In 2016, shortly after Donald Trump was elected president, I shared my concerns about the potential threats to Freedom of Speech—particularly for journalists. 

I feared an era where critics of the president might face retribution, and that fear was not unfounded. Over the years, we witnessed attacks on journalists labeled as “fake news,” an erosion of trust in the media, and relentless efforts to discredit those who dared to question authority.

Fast forward to today, these concerns have resurfaced with renewed urgency. A recent Supreme Court opinion granting presidential immunity raises troubling questions about accountability. Coupled with signs that this administration may act on Trump’s retribution message, the fundamental right to speak freely and criticize those in power feels more vulnerable than ever.

The idea that a president could target dissenters without consequence strikes at the very heart of democracy. For journalists, who serve as watchdogs of power, this chilling environment threatens to stifle essential reporting. It emboldens not only the executive branch but also those who wish to silence dissent through intimidation or legal overreach.

Freedom of Speech is not a partisan issue—it is a cornerstone of our republic. As I reflect on my 2016 concerns, the parallels to today are undeniable. But this moment calls for action: renewed vigilance from journalists, advocacy from citizens, and a commitment to defending the First Amendment.

The warning signs are clear, and ignoring them risks normalizing a dangerous precedent where dissent is punished and accountability is undermined. The American public (Democrats and Republicans) must demand transparency, challenge abuses of power, and support those who speak truth to authority, no matter the personal or political cost. 

Bill Bramhall (November 2024)

Dance: Lingerie by Lizzo

Choreographer: Lila Luxx

Performed by students of The Bombshell Burlesque Academy

via The Bombshell Burlesque Academy & Events

Cosplay is an Art: New York Comic Con 2024

via Justin Cosplay 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Gucci - Spring Summer 2025

Creative Director: Sabato De Sarno

via GUCCI 

Grace Charis

Model Appreciation

Grace Charis, born on November 21, 2002, in Newport Beach, California, is a rising social media influencer and golfer who has made waves across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. 

With striking blue eyes and her natural beauty, including her all-natural 34C bust, Grace has captured the attention of millions. Starting in golf at just seven years old, she has grown from a fun-loving athlete to a serious player, achieving an impressive 5 handicap in a short span of time. Despite her revealing outfits and the controversy it brings, Grace stays grounded and focused on honing her skills on the golf course.

Her journey into fame began unexpectedly, as a viral social media post redirected her path from aspiring news broadcaster to influencer extraordinaire. Grace now boasts millions of followers and isn't just about the looks—she's committed to being a credible golfer and using her platform to introduce new audiences to the game. 

Whether it's her playful content or dedicated golf practice, Grace Charis balances fun with skill, redefining what it means to be a modern influencer in the sports world.

Sources:

https://www.sportskeeda.com/golf/news-who-grace-charis-all-need-know-tiktok-golf-star

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

https://babesrater.com/infinite-scroll/138770/grace-charis

https://www.youtube.com/c/gracecharisxo

https://www.instagram.com/itsgracecharis

https://twitter.com/gracecharisxo

https://www.golfmonthly.com/features/even-though-it-is-kind-of-sexualised-im-getting-a-lot-of-people-to-come-into-the-game-golf-influencer-grace-charis-bares-all

Album Cover: Phil Collins – ...But Seriously

Album Cover

Album: Phil Collins - ...But Seriously

Released: November 20, 1989

Photographer: Trevor Key

Model: Phil Collins

Sources: 

Wikipedia

https://www.discogs.com/release/499511-Phil-Collins-But-Seriously

OneRepublic - Good Life

Music Appreciation

OneRepublic's hit "Good Life" is the kind of song that instantly puts you in a good mood—whether you’re cruising down the highway with the windows down or just daydreaming about your next adventure. 

Released in late 2010, this upbeat track from their Waking Up album captures the band’s feel-good philosophy with lyrics that remind us to appreciate the small joys in life. 

Co-written by frontman Ryan Tedder and friends, "Good Life" is a celebration of life's unpredictability, with its catchy whistling hook and infectious optimism making it a fan favorite worldwide.

The music video for "Good Life" is just as fun as the song itself. Premiered on Valentine's Day in 2011, it’s got this vintage, stop-motion vibe that feels like flipping through a collection of warm, nostalgic memories. Filmed in a mountain valley in West Hills, California, the video features the band performing in open fields, with whimsical symbols and cool cameos from stars like Cate Blanchett and Anne Hathaway. The rustic visuals, combined with the playful editing, make it feel like a day out with friends—simple, carefree, and full of good times.

via OneRepublic

Sources:

Wikipedia

Body Art: Roustan - Red Body Paint on Sawyer

Model: Sawyer (@forpersephone)

via Roustan 

Dance: Bebo Best & The Super Lounge Orchestra - Sing Sing Sing

Choreographer: Stixx

via MihranTV 

From Tragedy to Satire: The Fall of InfoWars and Justice for Sandy Hook Families

Pardon the Interruption

It’s surreal revisiting my earlier post about Alex Jones in light of recent events. 

The Sandy Hook families, who endured unimaginable pain compounded by Jones’ relentless and baseless conspiracy theories, have finally seen a semblance of justice. 

After a series of defamation lawsuits that ended with Jones facing massive financial judgments, The Onion, a satirical media outlet, has acquired InfoWars. This symbolic victory underscores the stark contrast between Jones’ toxic disinformation and The Onion’s purposeful satire, highlighting the consequences of exploiting grief for profit. 

While Jones once wielded his platform to spread fear and lies, The Onion’s acquisition feels like poetic justice. Instead of conspiracy-fueled rants, the platform is now a space for sharp, humorous critique of the very mindset Jones championed. 

For me, this development closes the loop on my early encounters with Jones. Watching his transformation from an Austin personality to a national symbol of misinformation was unsettling, but this outcome is a reminder that actions have consequences. 

The Sandy Hook families have fought tirelessly for this justice, and their resilience is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of truth over deception.

 

Drew Sheneman (Oct. 16, 2022)

America’s Political Whirlwind and What’s Next

Pardon the Interruption

Well, it took me a few days and a whole lot of deep breaths to digest the fact that America just handed the White House keys back to a guy with a felony record. So, naturally, I went down the rabbit hole, watching cable TV pundits toss around every theory under the sun. But when you cut through the noise, it boils down to the oldest campaign trick in the book: “It’s the economy, stupid.” Post-pandemic wallets are feeling thin, and it seems Americans just want one thing—cash they can actually spend. You could preach about how the U.S. dodged a recession and held its ground compared to other countries, but when people remember having a bit more financial cushion back in the day, all the economic stats in the world don’t mean much.

Were those Trump years truly rolling in cash? Ask five people, get five different answers. But the ads sure made it look like a golden age. Oh, and let’s not forget the “Kamala is for ‘they/them’; Trump is for YOU” messaging. As the parent of a transgender daughter, I see that, frankly, there's a big chunk of folks still uncomfortable with certain parts of the LGBTQ+ community, as if they're only OK with the LGB part from the ’90s edition. So, Trump's message stood strong for many.

So how did Biden pull off his last win? By talking about stuff that hits close to home: medical bills, jobs, and missing loved ones due to COVID-19. Lesson learned this time? Celebrity shoutouts and Kamala-style rallies aren’t swaying votes. This country has some serious reckoning to do, and yes, the government—and its policies—are in for some changes, for better or worse. How far that change goes? Who knows. But if we’re lucky, maybe in the next few years, we’ll get a shot at resetting things a bit. Here’s hoping!

Daniel Boris (Nov. 2024)

Gunter Sachs

Photography Appreciation

Gunter Sachs was a man whose life defied the bounds of any single title. He was known widely as a playboy, famed for his high-profile marriages to captivating, strong women like Brigitte Bardot and Soraya Esfandiary, former Empress of Iran. Yet, there was far more to Sachs than his star-studded romances and jet-set image. A skilled athlete and bobsledder, he competed with passion and grit, a quality that followed him into every venture he pursued. And perhaps most compelling was his genuine love for art. Whether as a collector of surreal and pop art icons or as a photographer with a talent for capturing elegance in unexpected ways, Sachs’s dedication to creativity and beauty stood as one of his defining traits, making him an unforgettable presence in the worlds of both art and culture.

Born on November 14, 1932, in Schloss Mainberg, Germany, Gunter Sachs was a man of many talents and interests. As the grandson of Wilhelm von Opel, co-founder of the Opel car company, and son of industrialist Willy Sachs, he was born into a life of privilege. Despite this, Sachs carved his own path, becoming a noted photographer, author, and industrialist. His early years were marked by a passion for sports, notably bobsleighing, where he achieved significant success.

Beyond his athletic pursuits, Sachs was an avid art collector with a keen eye for contemporary works. His collection boasted pieces from renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí, and Roy Lichtenstein. In 1972, he opened a gallery in Hamburg, showcasing Warhol's works, which solidified his status in the art world. Sachs's collection was not just a display of wealth but a testament to his genuine appreciation for modern art. 

As a photographer, Sachs gained recognition for his surreal and avant-garde style. His works often featured dreamlike elements, reflecting the influence of the surrealist pieces he collected. One of his most recognized photographs is "Ascot" from 1995, which captures the elegance and dynamism of the famous horse racing event. Sachs's photography was celebrated for its innovative use of light and composition, earning him exhibitions and accolades in the art community. 

Tragically, on May 7, 2011, Gunter Sachs took his own life at his chalet in Gstaad, Switzerland. In his suicide note, he mentioned suffering from an "incurable illness A," which many speculated to be Alzheimer's disease. His death marked the end of an era for a man who had been a prominent figure in art, photography, and high society. 

Augen & Gitter (1980)

Contemplation (1981)

Ascot (1995)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/art/artsales/9138327/Gunter-Sachs-art-collection.html

https://galerie-von-stechow.com/en/project/gunter-sachs/

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/8503379/Gunter-Sachs.html

https://www.icij.org/investigations/offshore/after-multi-million-inheritance-playboy-sachs-goes-offshore/

https://www.classicdriver.com/en/article/classic-life/playboy-and-gentleman-gunter-sachs-collection

https://www.thewrap.com/remembering-gunter-sachs-brigette-bardot-and-st-tropez-28602/

https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2011/05/death-of-a-riviera-playboy-gunter-sachs-departs-the-party 

https://www.sothebys.com/en/videos/an-introduction-to-the-gunter-sachs-collection

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Elly Clutch (Cosplay)

Elly Clutch cosplay Princess Leia

https://www.instagram.com/ellyclutchh/

Jewel - You Were Meant for Me

Music Appreciation 

Jewel, the soulful singer-songwriter who swept onto the scene in the mid-'90s, struck a chord with fans everywhere with her heartfelt hit "You Were Meant for Me." This gem, from her debut album Pieces of You, perfectly captures the bittersweet emotions of a love that didn’t quite last, all wrapped up in Jewel's signature blend of folk, pop, and country. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to grab a blanket, stare out the window, and contemplate life's ups and downs.

The lyrics take us through Jewel's journey of trying to move on, yet finding herself constantly reminded of her lost love. The beauty of the song lies in its simplicity—just Jewel, an acoustic guitar, and some raw emotion. It’s timeless, and if you've ever nursed a broken heart, you’ll definitely feel that pang of familiarity.

The music video is just as touching, but with a hint of whimsy. Directed by Lawrence Carroll, it shows Jewel alongside her collaborator Steve Poltz, with their chemistry adding a genuine feel to the storytelling. The visual metaphors—like reaching out but finding themselves separated by a curtain—make it clear they’re playing a game of emotional tug-of-war, even if it’s all a bit more poetic than real life usually allows. With its sepia tones and tender moments, the video earned a well-deserved Best Female Video award at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards. Together, the song and video are like peanut butter and jelly—sweet, a little messy, and just right for comforting the soul.

Sources:

Wikipedia

Body Art: Unbelievable Body Art Transformations That Blur Reality

via 5-Minute Craft PLAY 

Dance: Logic - Killing Spree

Choreographer: Sean Lew

via  Sean Lew

Cosplay is an Art: Colossalcon 2024

via Caught Your Eyes 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: RALPH LAUREN | Spring 2025 Fashion Show: Ralph Lauren in the Hamptons

Fashion Designer: Ralph Lauren

via RALPH LAUREN 

Lesser Ury

Art Appreciation

German-Jewish Impressionist painter and printmaker Leo Lesser Ury was born on November 7, 1861, in Birnbaum, Prussia (now Międzychód, Poland). 

Raised in humble beginnings, he faced hardship early on when his father passed away, prompting the family to relocate to Berlin. His artistic talent emerged while studying at the Düsseldorf school of painting and later in Brussels, where he honed his skills as a painter and printmaker. 

Ury's early career was marked by travel across Europe to cities like Paris and Munich, where he absorbed the techniques of German Impressionism and developed his distinct style. Despite the challenges he faced, he was driven by a deep passion for portraying everyday life with striking realism and moody atmospheres.

When Ury returned to Berlin in 1889 for his first exhibition, he faced a hostile reception. The Berlin art scene, dominated by the likes of Max Liebermann -- whom he had a running feud with -- and the Berlin Secession group, was critical of Ury’s work, which deviated from mainstream Impressionist trends with its somber tones and introspective scenes. His use of light and shadow created a dreamlike quality, evoking mystery and solitude that clashed with the more vibrant and social subjects favored at the time. The critiques were partly rooted in Ury's unconventional style but also stemmed from personal and professional tensions within the art community. His isolation in the art world drove him to focus even more intently on his personal vision, ultimately shaping his unique place in German Impressionism. Interestingly, he was known to paint Biblical scenes; however, many didn't survive. 

Among Ury’s well-known works, Rainy Night in Berlin and Unter den Linden stand out. Rainy Night in Berlin captures the bustling city streets under a rain-drenched night sky, with reflections shimmering across the pavement, a testament to his skill in depicting atmospheric light. Unter den Linden focuses on one of Berlin's most famous boulevards, capturing the energy of urban life while showcasing his delicate brushwork and fascination with light and shadow. 

These works reveal Ury's ability to capture fleeting moments with a poignant sense of place, cementing his legacy as a distinctive voice in German Impressionism.

Self-portrait (1921)

Rainy Night, Berlin (c. 1920)

Unter den Linden, After the Rain (1888)

Unter den Linden, Berlin (c. 1925)

Unter den Linden im Regen (c. 1920)

Berlin Street Scene (1921)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/lesser-ury/m0czbml

https://www.sothebys.com/en/artists/lesser-ury

https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5459402

https://berlin.museum-digital.de/people/41053

https://www.lbi.org/de/collections/lesser-ury/

https://benuri.org/artists/125-lesser-ury/biography/

https://artvee.com/dl/unter-den-linden-berlin/

https://eclecticlight.co/2018/09/22/after-the-rain-the-impressionist-streets-of-lesser-ury-1/

https://thehistorium.blogspot.com/2023/05/two-different-moods-of-unter-den-linden.html#google_vignette

https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/lesser-ury-german-1861-1931-rainy-night-berlin-c--484-c-db62cce849 

Jain - Makeba

Music Appreciation

"Makeba" is a track by French singer-songwriter Jain, initially released on November 6, 2015. However, its popularity surged thanks to TikTok and Instagram reels.

The song pays homage to Miriam Makeba, a renowned South African civil rights activist and singer-songwriter known as "Mama Africa" for her efforts in promoting African music and culture during the 1960s and 1970s.

Directed by Greg & Lio, the music video boasts a captivating blend of visual graphics, vibrant hues, and poignant political imagery captured in South Africa. Notably, a clip in the music video draws inspiration from Norman Rockwell's iconic painting depicting a black girl's journey to school, titled "The Problem We All Live With." Recognizing its artistic merit, the music video earned a nomination for the Grammy Award for Best Music Video.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/makeba-song-viral-instagram-reels-woman-8751782/

https://www.songfacts.com/facts/jain/makeba

https://www.lesinrocks.com/musique/qui-sont-greg-lio-les-nouvelles-stars-du-clip-francais-136852-16-02-2018/

https://youtu.be/2_esa2vDDiA

Grappling with the Outcome in a Divided Nation

Pardon the Interruption

Election Night 2024 had arrived. The challengers were formidable: the Vice President, a former prosecutor, facing off against a former President, a convicted felon and insurrectionist. Two giants clashing in a deeply divided nation.

As the night approached, my anxiety grew. I had a bottle of pinot noir ready, hoping it might ease the tension of waiting for the results. But as the night unfolded, the mood turned bleak. The AP began calling states for Trump, and he quickly surged past the halfway mark to 270 electoral votes. By 10 PM, Harris had only a few states in her column. I couldn't bear to watch any longer. Disheartened, I went to my room to disconnect.

To relieve the stress, I lay down, searched for my favorite porn, and masturbated until completing twice. Slowly, I drifted to sleep. I woke around 4 AM, a sense of dread settling in as I lay in bed, staring into the darkness and contemplating the outcome.

I wondered how a nation so divided could lean toward someone seemingly driven by self-interest and dishonesty. I questioned whether a Biden pardon, had it happened, might have changed this course. Did Biden, once said to be a one-term president, wait too long to step aside? What had gone wrong? Maybe I was out of touch with the realities others were facing. Did I misunderstand the needs of the majority? Were things truly as dire as many seemed to believe, despite the strong market and low unemployment?

I know these questions will haunt me in the days ahead as I grapple with the election results and the uncertain direction of our country.

Walt Handelsman (2024)

Lenka - Everything at Once

Music Appreciation

There's a certain resonance in both the song and its accompanying music video that evokes memories of my ex-girlfriend. Whether it's the monochrome world inhabited by the song's protagonist or the striking image of Lenka with her bangs in the music video, something about it tugs at familiar emotions.

Lenka, the Australian singer-songwriter, released "Everything at Once" on November 5, 2012, as the third single from her second studio album, Two (2011). The song soared in popularity following its feature in a Windows 8 commercial and a Disney Studio All Access trailer.

Directed by James Gulliver Hancock, the music video showcases Lenka donning a black and white striped dress, gracefully dancing amidst a constantly shifting geometric monochrome backdrop. Throughout the video, an "All-Knowing Eye" emerges on the hand of each dancer, perhaps serving as a symbol of mindfulness and our interconnectedness with the world.

via lenkatv 

Source: Wikipedia

Dance: Tate McRae - It's ok I'm ok

Choreographer: Kyle Hanagami

via KYLE HANAGAMI 

Jean Siméon Chardin

Art Appreciation

Jean Siméon Chardin, born on November 2, 1699, in Paris, was one of the most celebrated French painters of the 18th century. 

Chardin was raised in a family of artisans, and although his early life remains relatively undocumented, it is known that he received training from influential artists of the time, including Pierre-Jacques Cazes and Noël-Nicolas Coypel. Chardin, however, did not follow the popular trends of history painting that dominated the French art scene. Instead, he focused on scenes of everyday life, still lifes, and domestic interiors, which set him apart from his contemporaries. He was admitted into the prestigious Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in 1728, thanks to his impressive still lifes.

Throughout his career, Chardin remained rooted in Paris, where he built a reputation as a master of subtle detail and naturalism. He led a relatively modest life, focusing intensely on his work and earning the admiration of fellow artists and art lovers alike. Despite not having traveled extensively or engaged in the more flamboyant lifestyles of other painters of his era, Chardin’s dedication to his craft brought him recognition. His work was appreciated not only for its technical brilliance but also for its quiet, introspective quality, which resonated with the moral values of his time.

Chardin’s body of work is renowned for its still lifes and genre paintings that depict simple, often overlooked moments with extraordinary beauty and attention to detail. Among his most famous works is The Ray (1728), a still life that showcases his talent for rendering textures and objects with incredible realism. The painting features an assortment of kitchen items and a freshly caught ray fish, arranged in a way that elevates the mundane into a subject worthy of artistic reflection. His use of soft lighting and a limited color palette creates a sense of tranquility, inviting the viewer to appreciate the quiet dignity of everyday objects.

Another notable work, The Governess (1739), depicts a tender moment between a governess and a young boy, highlighting Chardin’s skill in capturing human interaction with warmth and subtlety. The painting, while simple in composition, is rich in narrative, reflecting the domestic life of 18th-century France. Chardin's ability to infuse everyday scenes with emotional depth and his careful attention to detail have made him a beloved figure in art history, with his works continuing to inspire generations of artists.

The Governess (1739)

The Ray (1727)

Still Life with a Basket of Peaches, White and

Black Grapes with Cooler and Wineglass (1759)

Sources:

Wikipedia

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

https://www.oxfordartonline.com/groveart/search?siteToSearch=groveart&q=Chardin&searchBtn=Search&isQuickSearch=true

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

https://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/chardin/

https://jean-baptiste-simeon-chardin.org/

Michael Gray - The Weekend

Music Appreciation

English DJ Michael Gray's "The Weekend," released on November 1, 2004, achieved notable success, reaching number seven on the UK Singles Chart and claiming the top spot on numerous international dance charts. The track, featuring English singer-songwriter Shèna, captivated audiences worldwide. Directed by Mike Harris, the music video portrays female workers (Ideta Kimso, Jodie Leigh, Laura More, and Sarah Merry) eagerly awaiting the arrival of the weekend, adding visual depth to the infectious energy of the song.

via Altra Moda Music

Sources: 

Wikipedia

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9892462/