Echosmith - Cool Kids

Music Appreciation

Echosmith's debut single, "Cool Kids," released on May 31, 2013, introduced the indie pop band to a broad audience. The track was a collaborative writing effort among band members—siblings Sydney, Jamie, Noah, and Graham Sierota—alongside Jeffery David and Jesiah Dzwonek. Produced by Mike Elizondo, with additional production by Rob Cavallo on the radio edit, the song featured on their debut album, Talking Dreams (2013). ​

Lyrically, "Cool Kids" relates to the universal desire for acceptance, narrating the experiences of individuals yearning to fit in with their peers. The chorus—"I wish that I could be like the cool kids"—echoes this sentiment. Musically, the song is set in F minor with a tempo of 129 beats per minute, blending light guitar strums and synthesizer melodies to create an infectious indie pop sound. ​

Originally, the music video, which was directed by Gus Black, showed the band performing in a cozy and intimate setting. A year later, Mark Pellington directed updated music video that featured the band performing on a set with intersperse visuals of teens in a high school setting. The music video fits perfectly in with the lyrics and meaning of the song. 

Sources:

Wikipedia

music.apple.com

thecentipedeblog.wordpress.com

reddit.com

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Isabel Sanchis - BBFW25 Fashion Show

Creative Director: Isabel Sanchis

via Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week

Michael Cheval

Art Appreciation

Michael Cheval, born Mikhail Khokhlachev on May 29, 1966, in Kotelnikovo, Russia, was raised in an artistic environment. His father, a self-taught artist, and his grandfather, a professional sculptor, nurtured his talent from a very young age. By the age of three, Cheval was already able to create complex compositions, demonstrating a natural gift for drawing. In 1980, his family relocated to Germany, a move that profoundly impacted his artistic development. His education continued in Turkmenistan, where he held his first personal exhibition in 1990 before eventually settling in the United States in 1997.

Cheval’s work is often described as Absurdist, a term he uses to distinguish his style from Surrealism. While influenced by famous surrealists like Salvador Dalí and René Magritte, Cheval's Absurdism rejects the subconscious focus of surrealism. Instead, it is based on the inversion of reality—a deliberate play on logic and visual narrative. His creative process begins with an idea that is fleshed out through careful compositions, often compared to the work of a theater director, where every element, from light to costume, is meticulously crafted to convey a story.

Twelfth Caprice of Casanova

Stairway to Heaven

Angel of New York

Sources:

https://www.parkwestgallery.com/artist/michael-cheval

https://huckleberryfineart.com/

https://www.chevalfineart.com/

https://surrealism.website/Michael%20Cheval.html 

https://www.paragonfineart.com/artists/michael-cheval.html

Kylie Minogue

Music Appreciation

I first encountered Kylie Minogue in the late '80s, watching her dance and sing her rendition of “The Loco-Motion” on MTV. That moment cemented my obsession with all things Australian—Crocodile Dundee, INXS, and of course, Kylie herself. To my young self, she was the ideal partner: blue eyes, blonde hair, petite (just 5'0"), and radiantly beautiful. I became a fan instantly, but my admiration deepened during her Light Years and Fever eras in the early 2000s.

Kylie Minogue was born on May 28, 1968, in Melbourne, the eldest of three children. Her parents, Ron (an accountant) and Carol (a former dancer), nurtured their children’s interest in the arts. Kylie studied at Camberwell High School while taking acting and singing lessons, growing up in a supportive, middle-class household that laid the groundwork for a life in entertainment. Both Kylie and her sister Dannii eventually pursued careers in show business.

Though known globally for her music, Kylie’s first taste of fame came through television. In the early 1980s, she appeared in several Australian soap operas, most notably Neighbours, where her role as Charlene Mitchell became a cultural phenomenon. Her onscreen romance with Jason Donovan’s character captivated audiences across Australia and the UK, earning her a Silver Logie and launching her into Commonwealth stardom.

In 1987, Kylie recorded “The Loco-Motion” for a charity event—unexpectedly sparking her music career. A deal with Mushroom Records and a partnership with Stock Aitken Waterman followed, leading to her debut album Kylie (1988). Though initially dismissed as a manufactured pop act, she eventually took creative control, reshaping her image and sound across decades.

With over 15 studio albums and global hits like “Can’t Get You Out of My Head,” “Spinning Around,” and “Love at First Sight,” Kylie remains one of Australia’s most successful musical exports. Her 2001 album Fever marked a commercial high point, particularly in Europe. 

Beyond the stage, Kylie has been a force for good. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, she became a vocal advocate for early detection and has supported organizations such as Cancer Research UK and AIDS foundations. Her advocacy has made a measurable impact, notably encouraging more women to seek early screening.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-23270014

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/kylie-minogue

https://www.theguardian.com/music/kylie-minogue

https://www.independent.co.uk/topic/kylie-minogue

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

https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/

https://hotnessrater.com/infinite-scroll/340/kylie-minogue

Jessie Arms Botke

Art Appreciation

Born on May 27, 1883, in Chicago, Illinois, Jessie Hazel Arms Botke demonstrated an early affinity for art. She attended Lincoln Public School and Lakeview High School before enrolling at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1902. 

During her studies, she was influenced by artists John C. Johansen and Charles Woodbury, attending Woodbury's summer school in Ogunquit, Maine. In 1909, Botke embarked on a European tour, exposing her to various art forms and styles that would later influence her work.

Botke's professional journey led her to New York City in 1911, where she joined Herter Looms, a prominent interior design firm. While there, she specialized in tapestry cartoons and decorative wall panels, notably contributing to a peacock frieze for the dining room of actress Billie Burke's residence.  

She also assisted in creating murals for notable establishments, including the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. It was during this period that she developed a fascination with avian subjects, particularly white peacocks, geese, and cockatoos. In 1915, she married fellow artist Cornelis Botke, and the couple relocated to Carmel, California, in 1919, becoming integral members of its vibrant art community.

Botke's artistic style is characterized by detailed and decorative depictions of exotic birds and flora, often incorporating gold and silver leaf backgrounds—a technique inspired by Japanese screens. Her compositions frequently featured white peacocks, cockatoos, and other exotic birds set amidst lush vegetation. 

Notable works include "White Peacock and Hollyhocks" and "Black Peacock and Magnolia." Her work has been exhibited in institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Santa Paula Art Museum. ​

White Peacock and Hollyhocks

Black Peacock and Magnolia

White Peacock with Spread Tail

Flamingos

Hopi Home Life

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.kargesfineart.com/jessie-arms-botke

https://masterful-artists.com/jessie-arms-botke-painter-gold-leaf/

https://www.annexgalleries.com/artists/biography/244/Botke/Jessie

https://www.santapaulaartmuseum.org/jessie-arms-botke-auction-2024-3

https://www.artfixdaily.com/blogs/post/3740-the-exotic-world-of-jessie-arms-botke

https://cranbrookkitchensink.com/2019/01/11/the-peacock-in-the-hallway/

https://onlineonly.christies.com/s/american-atmosphere-important-private-collection/jessie-arms-botke-1883-1971-22/232327

https://www.medicinemangallery.com/blogs/biographies/jesse-arms-botke-1883-1971-biography

https://www.artic.edu/artworks/74509/geese-and-hollyhocks

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57ad0e28d482e96d0a7c8ef1/t/5852fbd9d482e947810cb7e3/1481833435411/Jessie+Arms+Botke+Biography.pdf

https://www.americanfinearts.com/pages/jessie-botke-biography

https://www.wikiart.org/en/jessie-arms-botke/white-peacock-and-hollyhocks

https://www.incollect.com/listings/fine-art/paintings/jessie-arms-botke-black-peacock-and-magnolia-719771

Body Art: Roustan - Body Painting Flow IV

Model: Kapila May

via Roustan

Dance: Perfume Genius - Herem

Choreography: Nicholas Lanzisera

Dancer: Kinsley Stella

via Kinsley Stella 

Cosplay is an Art: Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2)

via Justin Pineda Media 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Mariano Moreno - BBFW25 Fashion Show

Creative Director: Mariano Moreno

via Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week 

Vök - Waterfall

Music Appreciation

I first discovered the Icelandic dream pop and indietronica band Vök during the height of the COVID pandemic. Their sound—an atmospheric blend of ethereal synths, ambient textures, and delicate vocals—immediately brought to mind the moody elegance of Portishead.

Vök was formed in Reykjavík in 2013 by singer Margrét Rán Magnúsdóttir and saxophonist Andri Már Enoksson. They rose to prominence after winning Músíktilraunir, Iceland’s annual music competition. Since then, the band has evolved into a trio, now composed of Margrét Rán, Einar Stefánsson, and Bergur Dagbjartsson.

“Waterfall,” a standout track from their 2015 EP Circles, features shimmering synth layers and Margrét Rán’s haunting vocal delivery. The lyrics touch on emotional fragility and the yearning for connection, while the song’s ambient-electronic arrangement highlights Vök’s distinctive sonic identity. 

The accompanying music video, directed by Skapti Magnús Birgisson and Baldvin Albertsson, was filmed in black and white and features dancer Þórey Birgisdóttir performing in a dimly lit room—visually reinforcing the song’s introspective tone and emotional depth.

Sources: 

Wikipedia

https://imvdb.com/n/vok

https://nialler9.com/vok-bring-the-icelandic-synth-cool-with-waterfall/

https://www.vice.com/en/article/premiere-vok-waterfall/

https://www.stereogum.com/1864365/vok-waiting-video-stereogum-premiere/news/

https://atwoodmagazine.com/vok-2017-interview-figure/

https://www.subvrtmag.com/spend-the-love-with-mystical-icelandic-electro-pop-vok/

https://indiepulsemusic.com/2019/02/10/icelandic-electro-dream-pop-band-vok

https://americansongwriter.com/meaning-behind-tlcs-waterfalls

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: The Time Tunnel, Issue #1 (1967)

Source:

https://www.mycomicshop.com/search?TID=193741

1 Seaport

In the February 2025 issue of The New Yorker, Eric Lach published a compelling article about the troubled rise—and literal tilt—of 1 Seaport, a luxury condo tower in Lower Manhattan.

Touted as the first all-glass residential skyscraper on the downtown waterfront, 1 Seaport drew interest from celebrities and international buyers, fueled by an aggressive marketing campaign led by real estate broker Fredrik Eklund. But behind the glossy renderings and sales pitches, the project was riddled with problems. In a cost-cutting move, developers opted for a “soil improvement” foundation rather than deep pilings—an unconventional choice that ultimately caused the building to lean by three inches to the north.

The situation worsened in 2017 when a 44-year-old construction worker, Juan Chonillo, died after falling from the 29th floor. His death, caused by poor safety practices, led to criminal charges against the subcontractor and brought construction to a halt. Legal battles quickly followed, with the developer Fortis Property Group, contractor Pizzarotti, and various subcontractors locked in lawsuits, each blaming the others for the structural flaws and delays.

Now partially completed and visibly leaning, 1 Seaport has earned the nickname “New York’s Leaning Tower.” More than $250 million has been spent, yet the building remains unfinished and vacant—an unmistakable symbol on the skyline and a stark reminder of how ambition, when mismanaged, can quite literally go sideways.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_8lrUPaLIY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QrvbUxOamo

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2025/02/10/the-leaning-tower-of-new-york

Album Cover: Peter Gabriel - So

Album Cover

Album: Peter Gabriel - So

Released: May 19, 1986

Photographer: Trevor Key

Model: Peter Gabriel

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.discogs.com/release/473582-Peter-Gabriel-So

Dance: Soft Cell - Tainted Love

Choreographer: Sejla Softic

via Diamonds Dance Vienna

Cosplay is an Art: Wondercon 2025

via Justin Cosplay 

MODELING: Ludmila

Model: Ludmila

Photographer/Videographer: Alex Galitsin

via Nude Art Russia

Alison Jackson

Photography Appreciation

Alison Jackson, born on May 15, 1960, in Hampshire, England, initially pursued a career outside the arts. It wasn't until the age of 30 that she began exploring her passion for art, enrolling in night classes while working as a receptionist. This newfound interest led her to attend Chelsea College of Art and Design, where she earned a BA in Fine Arts (Sculpture) between 1993 and 1997. She furthered her education with an MA in Fine Art Photography from the Royal College of Art in London, graduating in 1999.

Jackson is renowned for her provocative exploration of celebrity culture, creating convincingly realistic photographs, films, and sculptures that depict celebrities in private moments using cleverly styled lookalikes. Her work challenges perceptions of reality and questions the authenticity of images in media, blurring the lines between truth and fabrication. 

Some of Jackson's most notable works include images of a Princess Diana lookalike with Dodi Al-Fayed and a mixed-race child, Marilyn Monroe and John F. Kennedy in intimate settings, and satirical portrayals of Donald Trump in compromising situations. These works have been exhibited internationally in institutions such as the International Center of Photography in New York City and the Pompidou Centre in Paris.

Queen in the Loo in Regalia, 2016

Diana and Dodi

Trump Spray Tan

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.biennial.com/artists/alison-jackson

https://www.alisonjackson.com/about

https://www.candcgallery.com/artists/alison-jackson

https://www.xibtmagazine.com/2020/07/alison-jackson-beyond-the-truth 

https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2016/09/artist-alison-jackson-donald-trump

https://www.euronews.com/2020/04/02/meet-alison-jackson-the-controversial-british-artist-with-celebrity-culture-in-her-sights

Trump's Center

In February, President Donald Trump executed a significant overhaul of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, by dismissing all 18 trustees appointed by former President Joe Biden and installed his own appointees, who subsequently elected Trump chairman of the board. 

Trump justifies changes by criticizing the Center's programming, especially those he considers "woke." The reorganization has also sparked controversy within the arts community. For instance, several cast members of "Les Misérables" have announced plans to boycott a June 11 performance at the Kennedy Center, protesting Trump's involvement. 

While conservatives might feel the Center is out of touch of American values and welcome changes as necessary in realigning its mission, critics argue that Trump's actions represent a politicization of the arts. This draws scary parallels to historical instances where authoritarian regimes exerted control over cultural institutions, e.g. Hitler's Nazi regime.  

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Girl accidentally strips herself

 via BeKind

Louis Léopold Robert

Art Appreciation

Louis Léopold Robert was born on May 13, 1794, in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Neuchâtel, Switzerland. At sixteen, he moved to Paris to apprentice under engraver Jean Girardet. While training, Robert also attended Jacques-Louis David's studio, where he developed his painting skills. 

The political changes of 1815, which restored Neuchâtel to Prussia, prevented him from competing for the prestigious Grand Prix due to his altered nationality. This setback led him to return to Switzerland before eventually relocating to Rome to pursue painting. ​

In Rome, Robert immersed himself in depicting Italian peasant life, focusing on the customs and attire of southern Italy. His works are characterized by detailed representations of everyday scenes, capturing the essence of Italian culture. 

He aimed to create a series representing the four seasons through Italian life: "The Return from the Fête of the Madonna dell'Arco" (Spring), "The Arrival of the Reapers in the Pontine Marshes" (Summer), and "The Departure of Fishermen from the Adriatic" (Winter). The autumn piece remained incomplete. ​

Among Robert's notable works is "Brigand and His Wife in Prayer" (1824), portraying a brigand couple praying before a roadside cross in central Italy. This painting reflects Robert's fascination with the brigante subculture and their piety despite their criminality. 

Another significant piece, "The Arrival of the Reapers in the Pontine Marshes" (1830), depicts laborers arriving for the harvest, capturing the vibrancy of Italian rural life. These works exemplify Robert's commitment to illustrating the dignity and traditions of Italian peasants. ​

Tragically, personal struggles, including an unrequited love for Princess Charlotte Napoléon Bonaparte, led Robert to take his own life on March 20, 1835, in Venice. 

Brigand and his wife in prayer, 1824

The Arrival of the Reapers in the Pontine Marshes, 1831

Portrait of Charlotte Bonaparte, 1830

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk/plan-your-visit/exhibitions/true-to-nature-open-air-painting-in-europe-1780-1870/artists/louis-leopold-robert

https://www.fondationcustodia.fr/92-Louis-Leopold-Robert-1532

https://arthive.com/artists/94288~Louis_Lopold_Robert/works/649423~Portrait_of_Charlotte_Bonaparte

Joachim von Sandrart

Art Appreciation

Joachim von Sandrart was born on May 12, 1606, in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, into a family of Protestant merchants. From a young age, he displayed artistic talent, prompting his early training under Dutch engraver Aegidius Sadeler in Prague. 

His formative years were shaped by travel and exposure to various artistic centers in Europe, including Italy, where he studied the works of Caravaggio and the Venetian masters. These experiences broadened his perspective and laid the foundation for a cosmopolitan artistic identity.

As a painter, Sandrart embraced the Baroque style, known for its drama, movement, and attention to detail. His technique demonstrated a blend of German precision and Italian influence, particularly in his use of light and composition. Sandrart favored historical, mythological, and religious subjects, often depicting grand scenes with multiple figures and elaborate settings. 

He was also deeply involved in the art theory of his time, publishing Teutsche Academie, one of the earliest art history texts in German, which reflected his scholarly interest in documenting artistic achievement.

Among Sandrart’s notable works is "Peace-Banquet" (1649), which commemorated the Peace of Westphalia. "Peace-Banquet" is particularly celebrated for its historical importance and intricate composition, capturing a defining moment in European politics.

Self-portrait, 1641

The Peace Banquet, 1649

Trinity, 1671

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/person/103KQ9

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Joachim-von-Sandrart

https://research.rkd.nl/en/detail/https%3A%2F%2Fdata.rkd.nl%2Fartists%2F69604

https://www.nuremberg.museum/projects/show/1134-the-peace-banquet-the-great-hall-of-the-nuremberg-town-hall-on-25-9-1649

When a Delivery Becomes a Danger Zone

Pardon the Interruption

I recently watched a disturbing video on X (formerly Twitter): a man walked out of his house, gun in hand, and opened fire on a car parked in the road. According to the post, the driver was a DoorDash worker who had simply gotten lost. The man firing the gun? Chester Highway Superintendent John J. Reilly III.

A few hours later, the same video began circulating again—this time with a different spin. Commenters speculated about Reilly’s political beliefs, debating whether he was a MAGA supporter. Honestly, I couldn’t care less about his politics. What shook me was something more personal: my daughter is a DoorDash driver.

She delivers food while attending university, just trying to make ends meet. A few months ago, she was bitten by dogs during a delivery. They charged at her from the very house she was delivering to. She was terrified. Thankfully, her girlfriend was with her and rushed her to a clinic. She’s okay now, but it rattled us.

These delivery workers are not just strangers dropping off food. They’re someone’s child, partner, or parent. They’re trying to earn a living—often alone, often at odd hours. What happened to that 24-year-old driver could happen to any of them. My heart goes out to him and his family. 

DANCE: J.Fla - Let Me Down Slowly

Choreography: Vicki Venus

via Vicki Venus (Pole Dancer)

John Mayer - New Light

Music Appreciation

John Mayer’s song "New Light" was co-written by him and released on May 10, 2018 as the lead single from his eighth studio album Sob Rock.

Musically, "New Light" sports a breezy, rhythmic groove that pairs Mayer’s smooth vocals with light, playful guitar riffs. The song’s composition invites listeners into a relaxed, refreshing soundscape that hints at reinvention and self-reflection. Many interpret its lyrics as a gentle nudge to shed old perceptions and embrace a new perspective—an idea that resonates with the song’s upbeat vibe.

The music video, directed by Fatal Farm, mirrors the song’s light-hearted spirit with its quirky visuals and tongue-in-cheek humor. Mayer appears in a variety of amusing scenarios that poke fun at his public persona, all filmed with a creative, low-key approach. Behind the scenes, the video’s production was marked by spontaneity and a willingness to experiment, sparking playful chatter among fans and critics alike.

Sources:

Wikipedia

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: The Making of Vogue’s Met Gala Issue

This year’s Met Gala isn’t just a star-studded fashion spectacle—it’s a cultural statement. Inspired by the Superfine: Tailoring Black Style exhibition at the Costume Institute, the event puts Black dandyism and self-expression at the center of fashion’s most visible stage. Curated in collaboration with scholars and artists like Monica Miller and Iké Udé, the exhibit highlights how Black men have used fashion as a form of resistance, identity, and artistry across generations.

But what began as a celebration of Black style now lands in a politically charged climate. With federal crackdowns on diversity programming and renewed attacks on race-centered initiatives, the Met Gala has become, intentionally or not, a symbol of cultural pushback. Under the leadership of Anna Wintour and co-chairs like A$AP Rocky and LeBron James, this year's event challenges the industry to go beyond aesthetics and embrace accountability.

From Harlem to high fashion, this moment is more than a red carpet—it's about reclaiming space, honoring legacy, and reshaping who gets seen in the halls of power and style.

Co-Director: Nina Ljeti, Bety Dereje via Vogue

Source:

https://archive.is/2025.05.05-091935/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/05/style/met-gala-2025-black-dandy-politics.html

Black Box - Everybody Everybody

Music Appreciation

In 1990, the Italian house music group Black Box released "Everybody Everybody" as part of their debut album, Dreamland. The group, known for their catchy dance tracks, quickly gained international acclaim with this energetic hit. 

The song's lyrics revolve around themes of unity and celebration, encouraging listeners to come together and enjoy the moment. With its infectious beat and uplifting message, "Everybody Everybody" became a staple in clubs and on radio stations, embodying the vibrant spirit of the early '90s dance scene.

The accompanying music video, which was directed by John Shackleton and Judith Briant, features French fashion model Katrin Quinol lip-syncing the vocals, showcasing dynamic dance sequences that complement the song's lively tempo. The visual presentation played a significant role in popularizing the track, making it a memorable piece of the era's pop culture. 

However, the song was not without controversy. The powerful vocals were actually provided by American singer Martha Wash, who was not credited at the time. Wash sued Black Box and RCA Records for commercial appropriation, leading to an out-of-court settlement in December 1990. This case, along with others, eventually led to legislation requiring proper vocal credits on albums and music videos. 

 

Sources:

Wikipedia

Madi Collins

Acting Appreciation

During the long and uncertain COVID years, I stumbled upon a petite redhead who instantly caught my attention—Madi Collins. With her striking blue eyes, infectious personality, and undeniable on-screen presence, she was impossible to ignore. 

Beyond just a captivating performer, Madi has an effortless charm that makes her feel like the fun-loving girl next door—if the girl next door also happened to be a wildly talented adult film star. Her scenes aren’t just performances; they’re immersive, sizzling experiences that make viewers feel like they’re right there with her.

Born on May 7, 1998, in Chicago, Madi originally pursued a very different career path. She worked as a preschool teacher before transitioning to performing in gentlemen’s clubs. But when the pandemic shuttered clubs across the country, she pivoted to OnlyFans, where her exclusive content quickly gained traction. From there, she was discovered by Hussie Models and landed her first professional adult film scene in the summer of 2020. Since then, she’s carved out an impressive career in the industry, earning a dedicated fanbase that adores her mix of playfulness and raw passion.

Madi’s journey has been anything but conventional, but she has embraced it with confidence and authenticity. In her interview with Bree Mills, she spoke candidly about the realities of the adult industry, including the importance of maintaining boundaries and the stark contrast between public perception and the professional, structured nature of the business. She also shared some hilarious personal stories—like how the first full adult film she ever watched was a Grinch-themed parody. With her down-to-earth nature and quick wit, it’s no wonder she’s become a fan favorite.

Beyond her work in adult entertainment, Madi has used her platform to make a difference. She’s been an outspoken advocate for harm reduction, working as a spokesperson for naloxone to help combat overdoses and raise awareness about opioid safety. Her commitment to helping others only adds to her appeal—she’s not just a talented performer but a compassionate human being.

Sources:

https://twitter.com/madicollinsxo

https://www.amkingdom.com/tour/model/mad054

https://www.thenude.com/Madi%20Collins_50339.htm

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

https://www.eroticbeauties.net/model/madi-collins/

https://www.pornteengirl.com/model/madi-collins.html

https://www.iafd.com/person.rme/id=19206870-ab70-42ac-a830-f98f35718828

https://xxxbios.com/madi-collins-biography/

https://www.elitebabes.com/model/madi-collins/

https://www.indexxx.com/m/madi-collins

https://endoverdose.net/

Prepping with Patriot Mom

As I step into the next chapter of my life, I’ve been toying with the idea of a reinvention. I can only imagine what a marketing firm would come up with for a middle-aged man—compact in height but towering in presence, laser-focused yet bursting with big ideas. Now, if only they could fit all that on a business card!

Paul Noth, The New Yorker November 25, 2024

Hannah Ferguson

Modeling Appreciation

Hannah Ferguson, the Texan-born supermodel, captivates audiences worldwide with her striking beauty and magnetic presence on the runway. Born on May 5, 1992, in San Angelo, Texas, her journey to stardom started when she was discovered at the age of 14 during a trip to a shopping mall, Ferguson's career took flight when she signed with an agency in Dallas. Her transition from small-town girl to international sensation was swift yet seamless, as she quickly garnered attention for her signature blonde locks, piercing blue eyes, and 5'10" statuesque frame.

Ferguson's breakthrough came when she walked the runway for prestigious fashion brands such as Chanel, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana. Her effortless grace and poise earned her coveted spots in high-profile campaigns for Sports Illustrated, Harper's Bazaar, and Elle. With each appearance, Ferguson's star continued to rise, solidifying her status as one of the industry's most sought-after models. Beyond her striking looks, Ferguson's appeal lies in her versatility. Whether channeling old Hollywood glamour or embodying the free-spirited essence of bohemian chic, she effortlessly adapts to the demands of each photoshoot or runway show.

However, Ferguson's influence extends beyond the world of fashion. As an advocate for body positivity and self-acceptance, she uses her platform to promote messages of empowerment and inclusivity. By embracing her natural beauty and celebrating her curves, Ferguson challenges traditional beauty standards and encourages others to embrace their individuality. In an industry often criticized for its lack of diversity, Ferguson's presence serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring models from all walks of life. 

Sources:

Sports Illustrated (USA) — 20 February 2015, Vol. 122, Iss. 7, pg. 153–155, 160, 168, 172, by: Ben Morris, “Get Your Kicks”

https://www.boobpedia.com/boobs/Hannah_Ferguson

https://www.freeones.com/hannah-ferguson

https://twitter.com/TheHannahFerg

https://www.instagram.com/hannahfergusonofficial

https://www.babeimpact.com/galleries/hannah-ferguson-in-bikini/

https://babesrater.com/infinite-scroll/22371/hannah-ferguson

DANCE: Sofia Karlberg - Crazy in Love

Choreography: Dariia

via Dariia Dance 

Cosplay is an Art: Jessica Rabbit Cosplay Photo Shoot

Model: Jewel (@julietinthewild)

Photographer: Michael Heim

via Michael Heim Photography

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Saint Laurent - Women's Winter 2025 Show

Creative Director: Anthony Vaccarello

via Saint Laurent

Cecilia Beaux

Art Appreciation

Cecilia Beaux, born on May 1, 1855, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was the daughter of French silk manufacturer Jean Adolphe Beaux and teacher Cecilia Kent Leavitt. Tragically, her mother died just days after her birth, and her father returned to France, leaving Cecilia and her sister to be raised by their maternal grandmother and aunts. This nurturing environment fostered her early interest in art. ​

Beaux's formal art education began under the guidance of her cousin, Catherine Ann Drinker, an established artist. At the age of 18, Beaux taught drawing at Miss Sanford's School and gave private art lessons.

In 1876, she furthered her studies at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia, where she was influenced by the teachings of Thomas Eakins. Soon after, she was recognized with the Mary Smith Prize, a prestigious art prize awarded to women artists at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

To refine her skills, Beaux traveled to Paris in 1888, studying at the Académie Julian under prominent artists such as William-Adolphe Bouguereau and Tony Robert-Fleury. ​Her time in Europe did influence her palette as she adopted more white and paler coloration in her oil paintings.

Upon returning to the United States, Beaux established herself as a leading portraitist of the Gilded Age. Her work was often compared to that of John Singer Sargent, characterized by its elegance and sensitivity. She became the first woman to teach full-time at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, serving from 1895 to 1915. ​

Among her notable works are "Sita and Sarita" (1893), a captivating portrait of her cousin with a cat, and "Man with the Cat (Henry Sturgis Drinker)" (1898), depicting her brother-in-law. These paintings exemplify her ability to capture the essence of her subjects with depth and nuance.

Self-portrait, 1894

Sita and Arita (a portrait of Sarah Allibone Leavitt, 1893-1894

Man with the Cat (Henry Sturgis Drinker), 1898

Girl with Lyre, 1905

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.artrenewal.org/artists/cecilia-beaux/281

https://nmwa.org/art/artists/cecilia-beaux/

https://www.museumoftheearth.org/daring-to-dig/bio/beaux

https://www.dailyartmagazine.com/cecilia-beaux-in-10-paintings/

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cecilia-Beaux

https://www.artnet.com/artists/cecilia-beaux/

https://awarewomenartists.com/en/artiste/cecilia-beaux/