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

via Lux Studio 

FIREAID (JAN 30, 2025) - NIRVANA RENUNION - BREED - SCHOOL - TERRITORIAL PISSINGS - ALL APOLOGIES

DONATE: https://fireaidla.org

via Joel Reeves

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: Missoni Spring Summer 2025

Creative Director: Filippo Grazioli 

via Fashion Feed

Luc-Marie Bayle

Art Appreciation

Luc-Marie Bayle, born on January 30, 1914, in Malo-les-Bains, France, was destined for a life intertwined with the sea. Coming from a lineage of mariners, he followed family tradition by entering the École Navale in 1932, embarking on a naval career that took him to distant shores in China and Africa. 

Bayle's talents, however, extended beyond his naval duties; he was also a gifted artist. During his voyages, he began to capture the maritime world through his art, particularly excelling in watercolor paintings that depicted the serene and tumultuous aspects of naval life. 

Throughout his career, Bayle created numerous artworks that vividly portrayed maritime scenes. His watercolors often depicted ships, seascapes, and naval activities, capturing the essence of life at sea. One of his notable works is "La Brière, Trignac" (1986), a watercolor and black felt-tip pen piece that showcases his skill in capturing the tranquil beauty of the French landscape. 

In addition to his paintings, Bayle was also known for his contributions to maritime heritage preservation. He served as the director of the Musée national de la Marine in Paris from 1972 to 1980, where he played a significant role in promoting maritime history and art.

La Brière, Trignac, 1986

La Marina, Papeete, 1956

Venezia, Italia, c. 1950

Tai/Intercontinental air transport, c. 1948

Discover France by Train, 1954

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://isitaholidaytoday.com/birthday/LucMarieBayle

https://www.artnet.fr/artistes/luc-marie-bayle/

https://sequana.auction/lot/108016/13103743-luc-marie-bayle-peintre-officiel-de-la-marine-1914-2000-la

https://www.invaluable.com/artist/bayle-luc-marie-8mqb4ej02a/

https://www.mutualart.com/Artwork/BAYLE-LUC-MARIE/543F6E89F1F2B6527E09D5459076187E

https://www.mutualart.com/Artist/Luc-Marie-Bayle/784466743B28AE70/Artworks

Year of the Wood Snake

Happy Lunar New Year! 

Alex Gaudino Ft Shena - Watch Out

Music Appreciation 

Italian DJ Alex Gaudino has some memorable songs and music videos, such as "Watch Out," his single featuring Shèna, released on January 28, 2008. The music video offers a playful and provocative take on a football (soccer) match featuring female players in spandex shorts/tops. 

Set within a virtual gaming environment, the music video opens with Gaudino and a friend selecting female players (Amy Perfect and Sophie Burles) for their teams -- Team Gaudino and Team Diablo. 

Throughout the match, the video maintains a light-hearted and comedic tone. Moments such as the use of a "magic sponge" by a nurse to heal a player and the exaggerated antics on the field emphasize the fun, nature of the concept. 

via Alex Gaudino

Dance: BRUNO MARS & LADY GAGA - Die With a Smile

Choreography: Kyle Hanagami

via Kyle Hanagami

Cosplay is an Art: Anime Weekend Atlanta 2024

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Justice Undermined

Pardon the Interruption

A few years ago, I wrote a blog post reflecting on the events of January 6, 2021, highlighting the distinction between lawful protest and violent insurrection. While protesting election outcomes is a constitutional right, the attack on the Capitol was a riot instigated by President Trump’s rhetoric following the 2020 election.

Now, on his first day back in office, President Trump has pardoned over 1,500 individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6 riots, including key figures like Enrique Tarrio of the Proud Boys and Stewart Rhodes of the Oath Keepers, both found guilty of seditious conspiracy under 18 U.S.C. § 2384. This sweeping clemency raises profound concerns about accountability and justice. Pardoning those who sought to disrupt democracy undermines the rule of law and emboldens future political violence, sending a dangerous message that such actions can be repeated without consequence.

History offers troubling parallels, where leaders have pardoned criminals and integrated them into state-backed militias to serve their interests. While the U.S. has not followed this trajectory, assuming it cannot happen would be naive. The release of extremist leaders like Tarrio and Rhodes poses a real risk of renewed violence and radicalization.

It is crucial for conservative leaders and citizens to take a stand against these pardons. Accountability should transcend political affiliation, and defending the rule of law is vital to safeguarding democratic values. Failing to challenge these actions could accelerate the erosion of democratic institutions and lead to further political unrest.

Pardoning the January 6 rioters not only compromises justice but also normalizes political violence. One can only hope that conservatives will recognize the long-term implications and push back against the President’s actions before further harm is done.

 

Matt Davies, Newsday, January 21, 2025

Michael de Adder, January 22, 2025

 Sources:

https://apnews.com/article/trump-pardons-congress-capitol-riot-crimes-4443c672fc3b1492640684652647cde6

https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/jan-6-riot-trump-pardons-lawmakers-split-reactions

https://apnews.com/article/vance-trump-pardons-capitol-riot-31308a54ebac4ef6783662f595262dec

https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5092481-trumps-jan-6-pardons/

https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/01/trump-january-6-pardons-capitol-riot-insurrection/681395/

https://time.com/7208978/trump-pardons-jan-6/

https://people.com/proud-boys-and-oath-keepers-leaders-released-from-prison-following-trump-pardons-8777929

David Douglas Duncan

Photography Appreciation

David Douglas Duncan, born on January 23, 1916, in Kansas City, Missouri, embarked on a journey that would lead him to become one of the most influential photojournalists of the 20th century. He initially pursued archaeology at the University of Arizona, but a serendipitous encounter with a hotel fire in Tucson shifted his trajectory. 

Armed with a simple Bakelite camera, Duncan captured images of a man desperately retrieving a suitcase from the blaze—a man later identified as the notorious bank robber John Dillinger. Although the photographs were unfortunately lost, this experience ignited Duncan's passion for photography, prompting him to change his academic focus.

Duncan's career as a photojournalist was marked by his profound ability to capture the human condition amidst conflict. During World War II, he served as a combat photographer with the U.S. Marine Corps, documenting pivotal moments such as the Battle of Okinawa and the Japanese surrender aboard the USS Missouri. His compelling images from the Korean War, many of which were published in his book This Is War!, provided an unflinching portrayal of the realities faced by soldiers, earning him recognition as one of the most prominent combat photographers of that era.

Beyond the battlefield, Duncan developed a close friendship with artist Pablo Picasso, capturing intimate and candid photographs of the artist and his wife, Jacqueline Roque. These images offered a rare glimpse into Picasso's private life and creative process.

American Marines raced past a dead enemy 

soldier in Korea, September 1950.

Marine Capt. Francis “Ike” Fenton pondered his fate and the fate 

of his men after being told that his company was nearly out of 

ammunition, Korea, 1950

The fight for Seoul, Korea, 1950

The Holy Land Jewish refugees and survivors 

of Holocaust. Haifa, Palestine, July 1946

Pablo Picasso taking a bath at his Riviera villa, 1956

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.britannica.com/biography/David-Douglas-Duncan

https://www.bbc.com/news/in-pictures-44412575

https://www.life.com/history/david-douglas-duncan-korean-war-classic-photo/

https://www.moma.org/artists/1651

https://www.wral.com/story/david-douglas-duncan-who-photographed-the-reality-of-war-dies-at-102/17612658/

https://www.gettyimages.com/photos/david-douglas-duncan

https://norman.hrc.utexas.edu/fasearch/findingAid.cfm?eadid=00485

https://vva.org/arts-of-war/david-douglas-duncan-1916-2018/

https://www.life.com/photographer/david-douglas-duncan/

https://sites.utexas.edu/ransomcentermagazine/2018/06/07/ddd1916-2018/

https://www.life.com/history/korean-war-photos-david-douglas-duncan/

https://www.life.com/history/korean-war-photos-david-douglas-duncan/

https://time.com/3735936/david-douglas-duncan/

https://time.com/4189160/photographer-david-douglas-duncan-100/

https://photofocus.com/inspiration/on-photography-david-douglas-duncan-1916-2018/

https://aboutphotography.blog/photographer/david-douglas-duncan#google_vignette 

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Krull (1983)

Supposedly, JJ Abrams is working on a reboot of this cult classic. 

 

Harriet Backer

Art Appreciation

Harriet Backer, born on January 21, 1845, in Holmestrand, Norway, was raised in a culturally rich environment that nurtured her artistic inclinations. Her family's move to Christiania (now Oslo) in 1857 provided her with greater exposure to the arts. 

Accompanying her musically gifted sister, Agathe Backer Grøndahl, on study trips abroad, Harriet visited numerous art museums, deepening her appreciation for painting. Despite her early interest, she embarked on formal art studies relatively late, moving to Munich in 1874 at the age of 29 to receive private tuition, as art academies were then reserved for men. In 1878, she continued her studies in Paris, immersing herself in the vibrant art scene. 

Backer's career flourished as she became a prominent figure in Norwegian art, renowned for her detailed interior scenes that captured the interplay of light and shadow. Her painting "Blue Interior" (1883) exemplifies her ability to convey the tranquil atmosphere of domestic life through rich colors and meticulous attention to light. Similarly, "By Lamplight" (1890) showcases her skill in depicting intimate indoor settings, with a focus on the subtle effects of lamplight illuminating a solitary figure. 

Throughout her 50-year career, Backer not only created a significant body of work but also inspired a new generation of artists. She became a mentor to many younger painters, both men and women, emphasizing the importance of independence and creative integrity. Her dedication to capturing the nuances of everyday life and her role in advancing women's rights in the arts have solidified her legacy as a pioneer among female artists in the Nordic countries and Europe. 

Blue Interior, 1883

Chez Moi, 1887

By Lamp Light, 1890

Italian Woman, 1864

The Farewell, 1878

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.mutualart.com/Artist/Harriet-Backer/DE7F3BBBA18FD116

https://www.kalligone.com/harriet-backer-biography-and-paintings/

https://www.nationalmuseum.se/en/harriet-backer 

https://www.nasjonalmuseet.no/en/collection/object/nmk.dep.2018.0032.012

https://www.nasjonalmuseet.no/en/stories/explore-the-collection/harriet-backer-at-175/

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

https://theartbog.com/biography-harriet-backer/#google_vignette 

https://mydailyartdisplay.uk/2019/04/07/harriet-backer-part-1-the-early-years/

https://www.artnet.com/artists/harriet-backer/

https://awarewomenartists.com/en/series_animees/lhistoire-de-harriet-backer/

https://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/whats-on/exhibitions/harriet-backer-1845-1932-music-colors

https://www.artchive.com/artists-by-art-movement/female-impressionist-painters/

Caitlin McSwain

Modeling Appreciation

Born on January 19, 1995 in Dallas, Texas, Caitlin McSwain made quite an impression with her slim 5'4" frame, stunning auburn hair, and striking green eyes. 

The captivating model is known for her natural beauty and confidence. She first made waves in the modeling world when she posed for Playboy Plus at the age of 19. By January 2015, her irresistible charm earned her the prestigious title of Playboy CyberGirl of the Month. Caitlin's ability to bring authenticity and fun to her photoshoots helped her stand out, and she embraced the opportunity to pose for one of the most iconic brands with high standards she truly admired.

Raised in Texarkana, Caitlin is a proud Southern girl who enjoys bar hopping and a wide variety of music—Lil' Wayne being her celebrity crush. She’s a firm believer in showing off her body and takes pride in her natural figure, especially her "small, round, natural, and perky" 34C breasts. A true Texan at heart, Caitlin isn’t afraid to speak her mind and knows what she wants, both in life and love. 

Although she retired from modeling in 2021, her playful personality and photogenic talent continue to leave a lasting impression on fans worldwide.

Sources:

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

https://www.babeimpact.com/galleries/caitin-mcswain/

https://www.sexy-models.net/c/caitlin-mcswain/amateur-%D1%81utie-caitlin-mcswain.html

https://www.pornhoard.com/models/caitlin-mcswain

https://www.eroticbeauties.net/

https://www.erocurves.com/

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8564742/bio/

Cosplay is an Art: CCXP 2024 BRAZIL COMIC CON 2024

via mineralblu 

Fashion is DEFINITELY Art: MAISON YOSHIKI at PARIS FASHION WEEK SS2025

Designer: Yoshiki 

via MAISON YOSHIKI Paris 

Francesco Scavullo

Photography Appreciation

Born on January 16, 1921, in Staten Island, New York, Francesco Scavullo's fascination with photography began early. He would transform his sisters into Hollywood starlets using makeup and hairstyles, capturing their images with his father's camera. This passion led him to establish a makeshift studio and darkroom in his home, laying the foundation for his future career. 

Scavullo's professional journey took off when he started working for a fashion catalog studio, eventually moving to Vogue magazine. Under the mentorship of photographer Horst P. Horst, he refined his craft. 

In 1948, he created a cover for Seventeen magazine, which secured him a contract and propelled him into the fashion photography scene. He later opened his own studio in Manhattan, becoming a sought-after photographer for major publications. 

Throughout his career, Scavullo captured iconic images of numerous celebrities and models. He was instrumental in launching the careers of models like Gia Carangi and Brooke Shields, and his work graced the covers of magazines such as Cosmopolitan, Harper's Bazaar, and Rolling Stone. 

Sting, 1984

Andy Warhol and Jed Johnson, 1982

Samuel Wagstaff and Robert Mapplethorpe, 1974

Susan Sarandon, 1989

Gia Carangi, May 1980

Diana Ross, 1979

Janis Joplin, 1969

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.mgross.com/books/focus/bonus-chapters/francesco-scavullo/

https://www.encyclopedia.com/humanities/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/scavullo-francesco

https://chisholmgallery.com/francesco-scavullo/ 

https://www.fashionmodeldirectory.com/photographers/francesco-scavullo/

https://lucies.org/jury/francesco-scavullo/

https://www.motionpicturegroup.com/retrospective

https://www.bygonely.com/francesco-scavullo-fashion-photography/#google_vignette

https://www.artnet.com/artists/francesco-scavullo/

https://biographs.org/francesco-scavullo

https://www.notablebiographies.com/newsmakers2/2005-Pu-Z/Scavullo-Francesco.html#google_vignette

https://giacarangilivedhere.org/photographers/francesco-scavullo/

https://www.artsy.net/article/sotheby-s-francesco-scavullo-no-end-to-beauty

https://www.vintag.es/2017/02/extraordinary-vintage-celebrity-photos.html

https://photofocus.com/inspiration/on-phorography-francesco-scavullo-1921-2004/

RANDOM WEDNESDAY: Stripper Magician

via Caroline Konstnar

You Left the Toilet Seat Up, Again

My wife and I have separate bathrooms for good reason. She’s a clutter bug who takes over every inch of the master bathroom’s double sink vanity. To make matters worse, my side has a large plastic bowl for the cat’s water sitting in the sink, and a massive litter-robot sits right where I’m supposed to stand. The cabinets are packed with her products and an endless supply of bottles. These bottles seem to multiply, spilling onto the built-in shower seat as well.

With no space for myself or my shaving kit, I relocated to the extra bathroom, which I keep tidy and well-organized. I have designated baskets for bottles and toiletries, and everything stays in its place. My bathroom smells fresh—not like cat urine, which is occasionally the case in hers—and I never have to deal with stepping on litter gravel after showering. It's a far more peaceful setup.

Dave Whamond (January 15, 2015)