Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Fortnite Fashion Show 2024

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Carel Pietersz. Fabritius

Art Appreciation

Carel Pietersz. Fabritius, baptized on February 27, 1622, in Middenbeemster, Dutch Republic, was a notable figure of the Dutch Golden Age. Initially trained as a carpenter—reflected in his surname derived from the Latin "faber" meaning "carpenter"—Fabritius transitioned to painting and became one of Rembrandt's most gifted pupils. 

He worked in Rembrandt's Amsterdam studio during the early 1640s before establishing himself in Delft around 1650. In Delft, he joined the painters' guild and began to develop his distinctive artistic style. 

Fabritius was known for his innovative approach to painting, diverging from Rembrandt's techniques by experimenting with perspective, lighting, and spatial effects. His works often featured delicately lit subjects against light-colored, textured backgrounds, moving away from the dramatic chiaroscuro typical of his mentor. 

Notable paintings include "A View of Delft" (1652), showcasing an interest in complex spatial effects, and "The Goldfinch" (1654), celebrated for its detailed depiction and subtle use of color. These works exemplify his mastery in creating lifelike representations with a luminous quality. 

Tragically, Fabritius's life and burgeoning career were cut short on October 12, 1654, when a gunpowder magazine in Delft exploded, destroying a significant portion of the city. This disaster claimed his life and obliterated many of his works, leaving only about a dozen surviving paintings. 

Self-portrait, c. 1645

The Goldfinch, 1654

A View of Delft, 1652

Sources:

Wikipedia 

https://jhna.org/articles/engagement-carel-fabritius-goldfinch-1654-dutch-window-significant-site-neighborhood-social-exchange

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Daredevil #191

Art by Frank Miller

 

Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Art Appreciation

My appreciation for Impressionism began during a visit to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., when I was very young, where I encountered Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s A Girl with a Watering Can (1876). The painting exemplifies Renoir’s signature style, characterized by soft, feathery brushstrokes, a luminous color palette, and masterful use of light that creates a warm, vibrant atmosphere.

Renoir was born on February 25, 1841, in Limoges, France, the sixth of seven children in a family of artisans. His father, a tailor, moved the family to Paris around 1845, settling near the Louvre. At 13, Renoir apprenticed at a porcelain factory, refining his artistic skills by painting floral designs on fine china. He later decorated fans before pursuing formal art education.

In 1862, Renoir began studying under Charles Gleyre in Paris, where he met fellow artists Claude Monet, Frédéric Bazille, and Alfred Sisley. Together, they explored new approaches to painting, often working en plein air to capture natural light and atmosphere. Their collaboration laid the foundation for the Impressionist movement. In 1874, Renoir participated in the First Impressionist Exhibition, showcasing works that broke from academic traditions and emphasized the play of light and color.

Despite developing rheumatoid arthritis in 1892, Renoir remained dedicated to painting, adapting his techniques to accommodate his condition. He moved to the warmer climate of Cagnes-sur-Mer in southern France, where he spent his later years. With brushes strapped to his hands, he continued creating masterpieces, including The Bathers (1918–1919), a testament to his resilience and artistic passion.

Renoir’s compositions are celebrated for their luminous color, rich textures, and intimate, candid moments. He frequently depicted social gatherings, domestic scenes, and nudes, using light and shadow to create depth and warmth. His brushwork evolved from the loose, fluid strokes of early Impressionism to a more refined technique in his later years, blending Impressionist vibrancy with classical influences. 

Among his most celebrated paintings are Dance at the Moulin de la Galette (1876), a lively depiction of Parisian nightlife; Luncheon of the Boating Party (1881), capturing friends in a moment of leisure; and Dance at Bougival (1883), an evocative portrayal of romance and movement. These masterpieces showcase Renoir’s unique ability to convey joy and beauty through his distinct artistic lens.

Self-portrait, 1910

Dance at the Moulin de la Galette, 1876

Luncheon on the Boating Party, 1881

Dance at Bougival, 1882

Two Young Girls at the Piano, 1892

The Dancer, 1874

A Girl with a Watering Can, 1876

La Loge (The Theatre Box), 1874

Nude in a Landscape, 1887

Young Girl Bathing, 1892

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Pierre-Auguste-Renoir?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.metmuseum.org/essays/auguste-renoir-1841-1919?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

https://www.theartstory.org/artist/renoir-pierre-auguste/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Body Art: How to do Body Painting

Artists: Michael Buntyn (@mbuntyn_universe), Luciano Paesani (@paesanidesigns), Maharet Christina Hughes, Scott Richards, and Glitter N' Gore

Models: Tatiana, Lydia Zelmac (@lydiazelmac), Mo, Becca, Shelby

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Dance:BRUNO MARS & SEXYY RED -- Fat Juicy & Wet

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Drew Barrymore

Acting Appreciation

Drew Barrymore turns 50 today, and honestly, for those of us in the same age range, it’s kind of surreal watching someone we grew up with reach this milestone. From the moment she stole the show as little Gertie in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, she’s been part of our pop culture lives. But unlike most child stars, Drew didn’t just fade into the background—she took us along for the wildest ride.

While we were navigating high school, college, or our first jobs, she was out there doing things like partying at Studio 54 as a kid and living every cautionary tale Hollywood had to offer before she was even old enough to drive. Then came her young adult years, when Drew leaned into being the industry’s favorite rebel. She posed for Playboy at 19 and even flashed David Letterman on national television.

What’s cool about Drew is that she wasn’t just about shock value—she was smart. She co-founded Flower Films, making sure she had control over her career at an age when most of us were just figuring out how to pay rent. And it worked—she became the queen of rom-coms, giving us classics like The Wedding Singer, Never Been Kissed, and 50 First Dates. And let’s not forget Charlie’s Angels, because, at some point, we all wondered how many takes it took to perfect that iconic chair scene.

By the time we hit our 30s and 40s, Drew was evolving right alongside us. She became a business mogul, started a family, and somehow turned into the most down-to-earth celebrity ever. And now? She’s running The Drew Barrymore Show, where she interviews people like a best friend. It’s endearing, chaotic, and pure Drew.

She’s also a mom to two daughters, and if you’ve seen her talk about motherhood, you know she’s all in. She’s refreshingly honest about the ups and downs, whether it’s parenting, heartbreak, or trying to figure out life in general.

And now, she’s 50—and she’s excited about it. In her recent interview with Natasha Stoynoff for AARP The Magazine, she embraces this milestone, talking about how liberating it is to stop worrying about things that don’t matter: https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/celebrities/info-2025/drew-barrymore-interview.html. Honestly, it’s inspiring.

Source:

https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/celebrities/info-2025/drew-barrymore-interview.html

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Vitor Zerbinato Spring/Summer 2025

Fashion Designer: Vitor Zerbinato

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Jan de Baen

Art Appreciation

Born on February 20, 1633 in Haarlem, Jan de Baen was a Dutch portrait painter of the Golden Age, renowned for his refined and dignified depictions of Dutch aristocracy and statesmen. At an early age, he showed an aptitude for painting and was trained by his uncle, the artist Hinderk Pyman. 

Under Pyman’s guidance, de Baen developed his skills and later studied with the prominent portraitist Jacob Adriaensz Backer in Amsterdam. His talent soon attracted the attention of wealthy patrons, allowing him to establish a successful career as a portraitist. He eventually settled in The Hague, where he became the leading court painter, working for the House of Orange and various Dutch dignitaries.

De Baen's oeuvre primarily consists of formal portraits characterized by elegance, rich detail, and a smooth, polished technique. His ability to capture the nobility and refinement of his subjects made him a sought-after artist among the elite. His work reflects the influences of both Flemish and Dutch portrait traditions, with an emphasis on realism and psychological depth. His paintings often feature elaborate costumes, finely rendered textures, and composed expressions, reinforcing the grandeur of the Dutch ruling class.

Among de Baen’s most notable works is The Corpses of the de Witt Brothers (1672), which depicts the brutal murder of the Dutch Grand Pensionary and his brother, Cornelis de Witt. This work stands out for its historical significance and stark realism. 

Another celebrated portrait is that of William III of Orange, later King of England, showcasing de Baen’s ability to depict power and authority with subtle yet striking details. His portraits of prominent figures, such as Cornelis Tromp and Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen, further solidified his reputation as one of the foremost portraitists of his time. 

Self-portrait of Jan de Baen with his wife, c. 1674

William III when Prince of Orange, c. 1667

The Corpses of the de Witt Brothers, 1672

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.rct.uk/collection/404779/william-iii-when-prince-of-orange-1650-1702

Weisner, Karen. Dutch Painting in the Seventeenth Century. Yale University Press, 1983.

Slive, Seymour. Dutch Painting, 1600-1800. Yale University Press, 1995.

Briels, Jan. Dutch Masters of the Golden Age. Thames & Hudson, 1997

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Mike Myers Rewatches Austin Powers, Shrek and Wayne's World

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Enjoying the View While It Lasts

The other evening, my wife and I were out in our backyard, soaking in the Texas sunset. We couldn’t help but appreciate just how perfectly located our condo is—everything we need is just a short drive away. But let’s be honest, the real selling point? That sunset. From the moment she bought this place, it was love at first golden glow.

Funny enough, I had a condo in the same neighborhood first, but a few months later, she found this one—with the view. When we got married last year, I sold mine and moved into hers. And honestly? She made the right call. It’s a great spot, close to groceries, doctors, and all the essentials. But the best part? That warm, welcoming sunset at the end of the day, especially in the summer.

Of course, we both know change is coming. Eventually, a new neighborhood will rise, blocking our perfect view. But for now, we’re making the most of every breathtaking sunset while we can. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s to savor the little things—before someone builds a house in front of them!

Jeremy Nguyen, The New Yorker, February 3rd, 2025

The Obsession with Capybaras

I recently came across an article by Gary Shteyngart in The New Yorker that examines the global fascination with capybaras, the world’s largest rodent. Native to South America, capybaras are closely related to guinea pigs and chinchillas. They thrive in savannas and dense forests, always near bodies of water. As highly social animals, they typically live in groups of 10 to 20.

Shteyngart’s article follows his journey across the world, exploring the various ways humans interact with capybaras. He captures the growing obsession with these gentle creatures while also raising deeper questions about our relationship with nature. Whether as internet celebrities, emotional support animals, cryptocurrency mascots, or even political symbols, capybaras have found a unique and unexpected place in human culture.

Read the article HERE. 

Source:

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2025/02/03/how-the-capybara-won-my-heart-and-almost-everyone-elses

President's Day

 

Dance: Hozier — Take me to Church

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Cosplay is an Art: Anime Los Angeles 2025

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Happy Valentine's Day!

 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Chappell Roan Dazzled 2025 Grammys Wearing Jean Paul Gaultier Couture

Chappell Roan turned the 2025 Grammys into an art history lesson with a campy twist, dazzling in archival Jean Paul Gaultier couture inspired by Edgar Degas’s ballerinas. 

Fresh off a whirlwind year following her chart-topping album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, the 26-year-old pop sensation floated down the red carpet in a dreamy yellow and blue tulle gown featuring prints of Degas’s iconic dancers. Styled by Genesis Webb, Roan completed the look with sheer blue opera gloves and a feathered headpiece, channeling both high fashion and theatrical flair. 

Winning the Grammy for Best New Artist, she used her moment to advocate for fair treatment of musicians, proving that beneath the Impressionist masterpiece, she’s still the bold and unapologetic voice the industry needs.

by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

via Tennessean

Sources: 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFn2Tb0Su98/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://news.artnet.com/art-world/chappell-roan-channels-degas-in-vintage-jean-paul-gaultier-at-the-grammys-2604917

https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2025/02/03/chappell-roan-edgar-degas-grammys

Great A$$

I’ve got to admit—I've always had a thing for a great ass. Funny enough, I didn’t even realize it until I hit my forties. Growing up, I figured I was supposed to be like the other guys, all about the big curves up top. But deep down, I knew my preference was different. Sure, I’ve been with a couple of girls who brought more to the front than the back, but hey, variety is the spice of life, right?

When my wife and I first started dating, she had this habit of wearing tight jeans and leggings that, well... let’s just say they highlighted all the right things. I couldn’t help but wonder what was underneath, and when the big reveal finally happened—wow. It was more than I imagined. Different, sure, but in the best way possible. Her smooth, porcelain skin was a bit of a departure from my usual type, but it didn’t take long for me to appreciate the beauty in every curve.

After a few nights together, I half-jokingly told her I’d love to get a mold of her booty to hang on the wall—hey, I'm a art aficionado! She rolled her eyes and called me ridiculous, but that didn’t stop me from bringing it up every now and then throughout our courtship. 

Now that we’re married, the idea still lingers in my mind. I mean, what better way to honor perfection than with a little commemorative art piece? Especially that adorable little mole on the left cheek—it deserves its own spotlight!

Phil Interlandi

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: History Brought to Life with Ai Magic Vol.2

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The War on Words

Pardon the Interruption

A lot has changed since January 20th, the day of Donald Trump’s second inauguration. While many expected shifts in policy, the speed and trajectory of these changes have taken many by surprise. One of the first areas targeted was Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices within the federal government.

DEI is a framework designed to promote representation, fair treatment, and belonging for individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities. It has helped create opportunities in workplaces and communities where they were never guaranteed—benefiting people who are blind, deaf, or have other disabilities.

However, MAGA conservatives have been waging war against certain three-letter acronyms, including DEI, Critical Race Theory (CRT), and Social Emotional Learning (SEL). Figures like Daniel Buck from the National Review have labeled SEL a “Trojan horse for progressive pieties in education.” Throughout the 2024 campaign, these acronyms were weaponized to stoke conservative outrage and mobilize voters.

As Jen Sorensen’s cartoon suggests, the attack doesn’t stop at three-letter acronyms. The recent addition of "A" for "Accessibility" (DEIA) underscores the importance of ensuring physical and digital spaces are inclusive for people with disabilities. But now, the Trump administration is rolling back accessibility protections. This raise questions about how Texas Governor Greg Abbott—who has used a wheelchair since an accident in his late 20s—feels about these attacks on disabled individuals.

As Sorensen highlights, the political weaponization of acronyms has eroded the effectiveness of words like "civil rights" and "equal rights." Perhaps, for MAGA conservatives, that was the goal all along.

by Jen Sorensen, 2025

Source:

https://www.nationalreview.com/2022/08/conservatives-are-right-to-be-skeptical-of-sel/

https://diversity.syracuse.edu/what-deia-is-and-why-it-should-matter-to-you

Dance: ROSÉ & BRUNO MARS - APT.

Choreography: Matt Steffanina & Enola Bedard 

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Cosplay is an Art: Nori - Nier: Automata

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Cosplay is an Art: MEET AT RIFT 2024

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Giselle Palmer

Acting Appreciation

Giselle Palmer, born on February 7, 1995, in Houston, Texas, is known for her tall, striking 5'8" frame, blue eyes, and natural blonde hair. 

Standing out with her impressive 34E bust size and gorgeous looks, she quickly gained attention in the adult entertainment industry; however, her background reveals a brilliant academic career before entering the field. She graduated high school in just three years, earning a full academic scholarship due to her dedication to her studies. Giselle's passion for numbers led her to pursue and earn a degree in computational math from a university in Austin in 2016.

Despite her academic success, Giselle knew she didn't want to follow a traditional career path. After graduating, she made the bold decision to pursue a career in the adult entertainment industry. Starting as a camgirl, she attended the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo in 2017, where she made valuable contacts and shot her first professional scene with Ryan Driller for Naughty America. Giselle secured Mark Spiegler as her agent and quickly became a sought-after performer, working with major studios like Brazzers, New Sensations, and Kink.

Outside of her career, Giselle leads a balanced and active lifestyle. She enjoys spending time at home playing video games, cooking, and watching classic films. A dedicated vegetarian, she maintains her figure with regular gym workouts and enjoys practicing yoga. 

Despite her success in the industry, Giselle remains grounded, focusing on her passions and preparing for future endeavors, including possibly running her own business.

Sources:

https://twitter.com/gisellepalmer20

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8987403/bio/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm

https://www.instagram.com/honky_tonkangel

Achille Devéria

Art Appreciation

Achille Devéria, born on February 6, 1800, in Paris, was destined for the arts. He honed his craft under the guidance of esteemed artists Anne-Louis Girodet-Trioson and Louis Lafitte, and by 1822, he began showcasing his work at the Paris Salon.

Devéria's artistic repertoire was both diverse and prolific. He was particularly celebrated for his lithographic portraits, capturing the visages of notable writers, artists, and intellectuals of his era. His subjects included luminaries such as Victor Hugo and Honoré de Balzac. Beyond portraits, Devéria explored into genre scenes, often infused with a romantic flair and sex, reflecting the societal nuances of 19th-century France. 

Among his notable works, "A Day Before the Wedding" stands out, exemplifying his keen eye for intimate moments and societal rituals. His lithographic series, which portrayed various facets of contemporary life, further cemented his reputation as a keen observer and chronicler of his time. 

Self-Portrait, 1835

Victor Hugo, 1829

A Day Before the Wedding, 1828

Portrait from Galerie Fashionable, c. 1830

Reclining Nude

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://biographs.org/achille-jean-jacques-marie-deveria

https://www.themorgan.org/drawings/item/109727

https://www.artory.com/artists/achille-dev%C3%A9ria-1800/

https://pantheon.world/profile/person/Achille_Dev%C3%A9ria

https://artvee.com/artist/achille-deveria/

https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/m053ms1

https://www.hellenicaworld.com/Art/Paintings/en/AchilleDeveria.html

https://jahsonic.com/AchilleDeveria.html

https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/term/BIOG25158

https://www.wikiart.org/en/achille-deveria/all-works#!#filterName:all-paintings-chronologically,resultType:masonry

https://www.wga.hu/bio_m/d/deveria/achille/biograph.html

https://www.twogreyhounds.com/2024/11/12/achille-deveria/ 

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Silver Surfer (1968) #4 by Stan Lee

Cover Art By John Buscema 

Fernand Léger

Art Appreciation

Born on February 4, 1881, in Argentan, France, Fernand Léger initially pursued architecture before discovering his true passion for painting. He moved to Paris in 1900, where he worked as an architectural draftsman while taking art classes at the École des Beaux-Arts and the Académie Julian. Léger's early years were marked by exposure to the vibrant artistic and cultural shifts of the city, which would later shape his unique perspective on modern life.

Léger's early career saw him experimenting with Impressionism and Fauvism before embracing Cubism, influenced by contemporaries like Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. However, Léger developed a distinct style, incorporating bold colors, mechanical forms, and a fascination with modern industrial life. His time serving in World War I deeply impacted his artistic vision, pushing him further toward abstraction and the use of machinery as a motif. Works like The City (1919) and Contrast of Forms (1913) showcase his ability to merge human figures with geometric shapes, reflecting his belief in the harmony between humans and machines.

Among Léger's most celebrated works are Soldiers Playing Cards (1917), a mechanical reinterpretation of Cézanne's masterpiece, and Ballet Mécanique (1924), a groundbreaking short film that cemented his role as a pioneer in the intersection of art and cinema. Léger's paintings often depicted workers, architecture, and machinery, seen through a lens of optimism and dynamism. His murals and large-scale works, such as those at the United Nations headquarters in New York, further demonstrated his flair for monumental public art.

Léger's legacy is one of embracing modernity with unbridled enthusiasm. Often referred to as the "tubist" for his characteristic cylindrical forms, he was instrumental in shaping 20th-century art's relationship with industrialization. His work bridges the gap between fine art and popular culture, influencing generations of artists and designers.

The City, 1919

Contrast of Forms, 1913

Soldiers Playing Cards, 1917

Ballet Mécanique, 1924

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.britannica.com/

https://www.moma.org/collection/works/78788

https://www.tate.org.uk/

https://artsandculture.google.com/

https://www.oxfordartonline.com/

https://philamuseum.org/collection/object/53928

https://krollermuller.nl/en/fernand-leger-soldiers-playing-cards

Yoga: Flowina - Mini Yoga Workout

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Natalie Moore

Modeling Appreciation

Natalie Moore, a Maryland native, stands at 5 feet 5 inches tall with a curvaceous figure that includes her striking 34DD natural breasts. With her brown hair and distinct tattoos gracing her upper back, Natalie’s blend of East Coast charm and bold personality has made her a standout in the adult entertainment world. 

Known for her creative edge and fearless attitude, Natalie exudes confidence both in front of the camera and beyond. Her ability to blend artistry with sensuality sets her apart, making her a favorite among fans who appreciate her unapologetic approach to her craft.

Throughout her career, Natalie embraced her individuality, earning praise for her versatility and authenticity. Whether turning heads on SoCal beaches or showcasing her talents in photoshoots and films, Natalie consistently delivered performances that highlight her vibrant personality and captivating presence. 

Sources:

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

https://www.eroticbeauties.net/pics/natalie-in-flex-and-stretch/26769/babepedia.html

https://www.thenude.com/Natalie_Moore_27095.htm

https://www.zishy.com/albums?tag_id=170&PA=2425495

https://www.ftvgirls.com/update/natalie-1317.html?pa=1363741

https://www.sexy-models.net/n/natalie-moore/natalie-moore-wrong-india.html

https://babesrater.com/infinite-scroll/115869/natalie-moore

Cosplay is an Art: Anime Weekend Atlanta 2024

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