ART AFICIONADO

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Jeanloup Sieff

Photography Appreciation

Born in Paris on November 30, 1933, Jeanloup Sieff achieved fame for his distinctive black-and-white portraits, characterized by a captivating blend of sensuality, sophistication, and a subtle touch of humor.

Embarking on his photographic journey in the 1950s, Sieff's passion for the art led him to pursue studies at the renowned École des Beaux-Arts and later at the École Supérieure d’arts appliqués in Vevey, Switzerland.

Initially working as a freelance photojournalist, Sieff transitioned to contributing to major fashion magazines such as Elle, Vogue, and Harper's Bazaar. His formative years were profoundly shaped by encounters with the works of photography luminaries like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Capa, influencing the development of his distinctive perspective.

Among Sieff's most celebrated pieces is the iconic photograph of Yves Saint Laurent, the legendary fashion designer. This image showcases one of Sieff's signature techniques—the masterful use of light and shadow, capturing the human form in its most natural and elegant state, resulting in a composition of striking beauty.

Yves Saint Laurent, YSL Pour Homme (1971)

Twiggy, ELLE (1966)

Ina Balke and Alfred Hitchcock, Hollywood, Harper’s Bazaar, 1963 (1962)

Untitled (1995)

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.artsy.net/artwork/jeanloup-sieff-twiggy-fashion-lison-pour-refdress-paris-elle

https://www.modernamuseet.se/stockholm/en/exhibitions/jeanloup-sieff/photographic-formations/

https://www.blind-magazine.com/news/jeanloup-sieff-a-photographic-journey-in-the-death-valley/

https://artblart.com/tag/jeanloup-sieff-ballet-paris-opera/

https://www.thecut.com/2012/09/18-vintage-fashion-images-by-jeanloup-sieff.html

https://arthur.io/art/jeanloup-sieff

https://www.kooness.com/artists/art-for-sale-best-artist-jeanloup-sieff

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Drag = Groomers. The Right's Best Defense for Their Own Sexual Insecurities

Excuse the Interruption

The conservative right is swift to vilify a small community engaging in drag as part of their lifestyle. Drag, for those unfamiliar, involves male performers dressing in women's clothing, adorned with elaborate makeup, and accentuating femininity for entertainment. The concern among conservatives arises when such performances "encroach" into their communities, specifically public spaces like parks or libraries. This notion is particularly alarming for the conservative right, possibly uncomfortable with their own sexuality. Instead of delving into the reasons for their feelings of unease, especially regarding their sexuality, they often employ children as a defensive focal point.

By Adam Ellis @adamtots

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Mary Elizabeth Winstead

Acting Appreciation

If you share my love for Sci-Fi, horror, and comedy films, chances are you're familiar with the incredibly versatile and talented Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Born on November 28, 1984, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Winstead initially aspired to be a ballerina during her early years. Fortunately for us, her height led her to pivot towards acting.

Her journey began in 1997 with guest roles in the CBS TV drama series "Touched by an Angel" and "Promise Land." Winstead's breakout came when she landed the role of Jessica Bennett in the NBC soap opera "Passions" from 1999 to 2000. Subsequently, she graced the big screen in notable films like "The Ring Two" (2005), "Sky High" (2005), "Final Destination 3" (2006), "Black Christmas" (2006), and "Live Free or Die Hard" (2007).

In 2010, Winstead shared the screen with Michael Cera in "Scott Pilgrim vs. The World," portraying the character Ramona Flowers. Her diverse roles continued with the action horror film "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" (2012), where she played Mary Todd Lincoln. She reprised her role as Lucy Gennero-McClane in "A Good Day to Die Hard" (2013) and delivered a standout performance in "10 Cloverfield Lane" (2016).

Adding to her impressive resume, Winstead recently joined the cast of the Disney+ series "Ahsoka," taking on the role of Twi'lek Hera Syndulla.

Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrities/mary-elizabeth-winstead/

https://cloverfield.fandom.com/wiki/Mary_Elizabeth_Winstead

https://www.maxim.com/women/mary-elizabeth-winstead-sexy-photo-shoot-2016-9/

https://www.wikifeet.com/mary_elizabeth_winstead

https://offcamera.com/issues/mary-elizabeth-winstead/watch/

Monday, November 27, 2023

OneRepublic - Stop and Stare

Music Appreciation

OneRepublic's "Stop and Stare" is the second single from their debut studio album, Dreaming Out Loud, which was released on November 27, 2007. This captivating and emotionally charged track embarks on an introspective journey delving into self-doubt, regrets, and the sensation of being stuck in a moment, unable to progress. In an interview with the Huffington Post, lead vocalist Ryan Tedder candidly revealed, "We, as a band, were on tour, and we had a conversation and said, if 'Stop and Stare' doesn't connect, we're done."

Ryan Tedder's powerful and emotive vocal delivery bears the emotional weight of the lyrics, rendering the song a profound and relatable experience for those who have grappled with pivotal crossroads in life. The song's melancholic melody, coupled with Tedder's raw vulnerability, weaves an atmosphere of introspection that deeply resonates with its audience. Accompanying the song is a striking music video directed by Anthony Mandler, shot at an old gas station and motel in the Palmdale desert of California. The video features Tedder in various scenes, ranging from a eulogy to a motel room, driving a pregnant woman, and even running over another version of himself, enhancing the song's visual storytelling.