ArtPatronMagazine.com 1
SHAUNACOVINGTON
LUXURY ESTATES BY SHAUNA
949.412.8088 Shauna@ShaunaCovington.com www.ShaunaCovington.com Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ #4 Individual Agent North America 2013-2015
1019 Marine Dr. | Laguna Beach | $4,995,000 Ocean front with beach access | 1019Marine.com
645 Buena Vista | Laguna Beach | $3,995,000 4BR/4BA | 4,100 sq. ft. | Ocean View
30801 Marilyn Drive | Laguna Beach | $2,095,000 3BD/3BA | Montage Location | Single Story | 30801Marilyn.com
31372 Trigo Trail | Coto De Casa | $8,950,000 6 bedrooms 11 baths | 4.4 acre Estate | 31372TrigoTrail.com
649 Anita Street | Laguna Beach | $3,295,000 3BR/2BA | Charming Cottage | 649 Anita.com
5 Inspiration | Laguna Niguel | $3,495,000 28,671 sq. ft. Lot | Single Story | Ocean View | 5Inspiration.com
573 Temple Hills Dr. | Laguna Beach | $2,495,000 4BR/5BA | Ocean View | 573TempleHills.com
980 Meadowlark Lane | Laguna Beach | $1,645,000 3BR/2BA | Ocean View
2400 Temple Hills | Laguna Beach | $2,495,000 4BD/3BA | Ocean View Contemporary | 3,000 sq. ft.
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Home Services
2 ArtPatronMagazine.com
California Properties
©2016 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. CalBRE 00991380
WWW.SHAUNACOVINGTON.COM
SHAUNACOVINGTON
949.412.8088 Shauna@ShaunaCovington.com www.ShaunaCovington.com Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ #4 Individual Agent North America 2013-2015
2345 S. Coast Hwy | Laguna Beach | $16,500,000 Ocean Front | 2345Coast.net | 2345Coast.com
8 Rockledge | Laguna Beach | $9,995,000 Ocean Front 1930’s | 8Rockledge.com
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Home Services
California Properties ArtPatronMagazine.com 3
©2016 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. CalBRE 00991380
2572 Solana Way, Laguna Beach
$4,500-$5,500/mo.
Panoramic Ocean Views from this designer decorated “Turn-key” 2 Bdrm Contemporary. Flexible rental terms, please inquire.
2419 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach $30,000-$40,000/mo. Spectacular Ocean Front with panoramic views of iconic Laguna coastline. 6,200 sq. ft. 4 Bdrm + 4.5 Bath, media room and central office. Gated drive and courtyard provide privacy and security.
203 Crescent Bay, North Laguna $30,000-$35,000/mo. Ocean Front Crescent Bay “French Normandy” with Private Pool and Spa. 5 Bdrm plus Office, 5 Bath. Turn-key, Furnished. Separate Guest Suite, Panoramic Ocean Views!
31736 Seacliff, Laguna Beach $13,900-$20,000/mo. 4 Bdrm + 3.5 Bath, 3,500 sq. ft. Vacation Rental with gorgeous whitewater ocean views! Ocean side of Coast Hwy with private access beach. Remodeled Tuscan style home has separate “Mother in Law” living space.
30802 Coast Hwy, F8, Laguna Beach $180,000 w/space rent of $3,024/mo. Cozy ocean view cottage in Laguna Terrace across Coast Hwy from some of the most spectacular coastline in Laguna Beach. 2 Bdrm + 2 Bath, 940 sq. ft. with large view deck.
320 Lookout, Laguna Beach
1137 Marine Dr, Laguna Beach $40,000-$45,000/mo. Turn-Key Ocean Front Vacation Rental with Coastline Views in North Laguna. Spa, 4 Bdrm + Bonus Room + 3 Baths.
943 Tia Juana Street, Laguna Beach $1,199,000 Ocean view 3 Bdrm, 2 Bath home sits above Laguna Village, just around corner from Moulton Meadows park.
4 ArtPatronMagazine.com
$10,000-$11,000/mo.
Sweeping Ocean & Village view contemporary in North Laguna! 3,800 sf w/4Bdrms, 3 Ba, Lrg kitchen with high-end appliances. Expansive wrap-around decks & cul-de-sac location. Walk downtown!
LEASED
114 S La Senda Dr, Laguna Beach,
$13,900|$50,000-$60,000/mo.
Spectacular 4 Bdrm + 5 Bath, 4,273 sq. ft. ocean front estate with panoramic, white water views overlooking Thee Arch Bay. Luxurious home w/complete privacy blends custom soft contemporary flair with Italian Villa Style.
LEASED
35325 Beach Road, Laguna Beach, $3,700,000 or $10,000/mo.
Toes in the Sand living behind guarded gates on Beach Rd. 4 Bdrm single family home with spacious great room; 2 Bdrms on main floor. Parking for 5 vehicles. Great income generating property (at price ranges of $9,500-$12,500/mo).
IN ESCROW
15 Blue Lagoon, Laguna Beach
$1,689,000
Neighboring the Montage Resort with sprawling ocean views. Turnkey 2 Bdrm + 2 Bath villa at Blue Lagoon with Resort Amenities: Pool, tennis, beach access. Fully furnished and ready for move-in or year-round INCOME.
PENDING ESCROW
30394 Via Estoril, Laguna Beach
$1,600,000
Perfect family oasis with panoramic views, large lush yard with pool, jacuzzi, outdoor living areas, garden and infrared sauna. 5 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3,675 sq. ft. 3 car garage. Close to access to shopping, golf course.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 5
DIANE McCLARY
“Lupine and Desert Sunflowers” Oil on Canvas 36x48 in.
“Desert Sunrise” Oil on Canvas 36x48 in.
Studio : 760.771.6666 Web : www.dianemcclary.com Email : studio@dianemcclary.com
6 ArtPatronMagazine.com
A Unique Experience
Colin Fisher Studios 68929 Perez Road, Suite M | Cathedral City, CA 92234 Gallery: 760-324-7300 | email:colin@colinfisher.com colinfisherstudiosonline.com | colinfisher.com ArtPatronMagazine.com 7
8 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Body ART That works in any room....
...and can work any room!
Smiles - Implants - Sedation - TMJ General & Comprehensive Dentistry
Studio
Dr. Rob Strain
Dr. Laura Wittenauer
Dentistry 760/ 568-9494 studiodentistry.com
Talented, seasoned artists and educators to meet your challenges. ArtPatronMagazine.com 9
FEATURES Winter 2017
David bowie: Behind the Curtain Page 38
Phillip K. Smith iii: A Visit to the Studio Page 88
Page 80 collectors: Gil Rose and Stan Russell
collector: pat sparkuhl Page 70 10 ArtPatronMagazine.com
384 Forest #8 • Laguna Beach CA 92651 • 949.494.8208 heshmatshirazi@aol.com • www.justlookingboutique.net Mon-Sat 10-6pm • Sun 11-4pm ArtPatronMagazine.com 11
12 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 13
IN EVERY ISSUE Winter 2017
32 Highlights
Page 20
On The Scene
Page 26
Art Influencing Art
Page 32
Chasing the LighT
Page 44
The Day I Bullied Sir Anthony Hopkins into Admitting He’s Zen
Page 54
Creations That Last a Lifetime
Page 64
Looking Forward to the 2017 Palm Springs International Film Festival
Page100
What to do?
Page104
The Steinway Society Western Art Council Desert Trip Scott Donadio Simeon Den LA Today The Bank Tommy Tune Ted Casablanca
An Interview with Acclaimed Landscape Painter Tom Swimm
The Artwork of Sukhdev Dail
Our Editor’s Picks for Your Calendar 14 14 ArtPatronMagazine.com ArtPatronMagazine.com
64
22
Live it...
The Gold Coast Riviera 48 inches x 84 inches
Coastal RepResentation and abstRaCt aRt Mixed Media • Surfboard Art • Collector Series • Commissions • Prints Steve Adam Gallery 760 South Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.294.9409 • www.steve-adam.com STEVE ADAM GALLERY ArtPatronMagazine.com 15
16 ArtPatronMagazine.com
SOLD
Record settingSOLD sale for Palm Springs
Record setting sale for Palm Springs
John Lautner for Arthur Elrod 1969 John Lautner for Elrod 1969 2175 Southridge Dr.Arthur Palm Springs, CA
2175 Southridge Dr. Palm Springs, CA $8,000,000 $8,000,000
"To me, architecture is an art, naturally, and it isn't architecture unless it's alive. Alive is what art is. If it's not alive, it's dead, and it's not art." John Lautner “ To me, architec tur e is an ar t, natu ra l l y, a n d i t i s n ’ t a r c h i t e c t u re u n l e s s i t ’s a l i v e .
A l ive is wha t ar t is. If it’s not a l i v e , i t ’s d e a d , a n d i t ’s n o t a r t . ” - Jo h n L a u t n e r John Nelson and Cat Moe 760-774-8587 / 760-774-5558 John Nelson 760-774-8587 • Cat Moe 760-774-5558 PresidentsPremier@gmail.com PresidentsPremier@gmail.com
WW W.N E LS O NM O E P RO P E RT I E S . CO M WWW.NELSONMOEPROPERTIES.COM
ArtPatronMagazine.com 17
SHOWCASE GALLERY AND ART SHOP BEAR ST GALLERY AND WORKSHOPS 3851 S Bear St #15B South Coast Plaza Village, CA 92704 714.540.6430 | OCFineArts.org
C o- Pu blisher s C h r is t in e Do dd & J an n een J ack so n C hr is tine D odd C r eat ive Dir ector Gr ove Kog er C o py Edito r Janneen Jac k son A dver t isin g Dir ec tor jan n een @ lagun abeach AR T mag azin e. c om (949) 310- 1458 Rob Piepho A dver t isin g C o n sult ant r o b@ palmspr in gsAR T mag azin e.co m (760) 408- 5750 Ad ver tising D esig n C yn t h ia Wo o dr um Randy C a tiller Website Design
NOV 2 - DEC 11
Bill Fisher: 4 Corners
C ontr ibu t or s N ico le Bo r gen ich t St acy Da v ies Br uce Do dd L iz Go ldn er Ter r y H as t in gs K imber l y J o h n so n An dr ew Ken t Gr ove Ko ger To m L amb Ro b Pieph o An gela Ro meo w w w.Lagu naBeachAR T mag azine.com w w w.PalmSpr ingsAR T mag azine.com For Advertising and Editorial Information: P.O. Box 9492, Laguna Beach, CA 92652 or email info@lagunabeachartmagazine.com The opinions expressed by writers and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Laguna Beach ART Patron Magazine and Palm Springs ART Patron Magazine are published by Laguna Beach ART Magazine, LLC
DEC 14 - JAN 22
Membership Show/ Competition UPCOMING
JAN 25 - MAR 5, 2017 Fish or Fowl
Showcase Gallery | www.ocfinearts.org 18 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ART Patron Magazine is proud to support: Laguna Art-A-Fair • Art Along the Coast • Art Palm Springs Bowers Museum • Casa Romantica • Community Art Project Indian Wells Arts Festival • Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce Laguna Dance Festival • Southwest Arts Festival • Spectrum Indian Wells The Steinway Society • Waring International Piano Competition
ArtPatronMagazine.com 19
HIGHLIGHTS
Palm Springs Art Museum’s
The Steinway Society
Western Art Council One Great Season Deserves Another!
The Western Art Council of the Palm Springs Art Museum is
devoted to a broad vision of the art of the American West, one that combines the cultures, landscapes, historical forces, and artistic traditions that have shaped our ever-evolving interpretation of the vast region. Members of WAC enjoy events, lectures, and
private tours of Western and Native American collections, while proceeds from all the council’s events support the museum’s exhibitions, acquisitions, programs, and general operations.
The WAC’s 2015-16 season featured its annual Welcome Back
BBQ! and George Montgomery Award ceremony (complete with Western line dancing). Other events included a Conversations with Collectors evening in the lovely home of collector Jean
Carrus, a second Conversations function held in the home of
Maureen and Phil Ramer, and a lecture by Christopher Cardozo, guest curator of the Edward S.Curtis: One Hundred Masterworks
exhibition. The council’s major fundraising event—An Evening at Villa Santa Rosa—took place in the home and studio of artist Mary Ingebrand-Pohlad.
“This year WAC and the other councils will be playing a
The Annual Fundraiser for The Steinway Society of
greater role in funding our museum events,” says Janet Langford,
Riverside County (SSRC) is on February 12, 2017 at The
chair of the council’s board of directors. “Our Welcome Back BBQ!
10th annual” Doctors of the Desert in Concert.” Hal Linden is the
Olson. The 2016-17 season also includes an incredible exhibition
Thunderbird Country Club in Rancho Mirage. The event is the
will honor extraordinary council members Carol-Ann and Alan
SSRC Honoree and will play the clarinet with the Klezmer Band.
entitled Go West! Art of the American Frontier from the Buffalo Bill
musician and creative director, in order to bring quality classical
2016, through February 20, 2017, as well as art salons, tours, and
The SSRC was established by Ruth Moir, a professional
Center of the West, which will be on display from October 22,
concerts to schoolchildren in the Coachella Valley. A long time
more Conversations with Collectors evenings.”
bringing music into schools.
premiere season exhibition and presents a century of art from an
reception followed by a luncheon under the umbrellas on the
explorers and Plains Indian peoples, it chronicles the pivotal
live auctions. The concert will be in the 300-seat ballroom just
clashing, and finding either fortune or hardship in the changing
supporter of music programming, this is Moir’s 48th year of
The fundraiser will begin at 11:30 AM with a champagne
Funded in part by WAC, Go West! is the museum’s
extraordinary era of exploration. Featuring 90 works by artist-
terrace of the Country Club. After lunch there will be silent and
period from 1830 to 1930 in which cultures were merging,
after 1pm.
American landscape. Go to psmuseum.org to learn more about
org or call 760-341-3140 for tickets to the Doctors Concert.
Springs Art Museum.
Keep Music for the children. Visit www.steinwayriverside.
20 20ArtPatronMagazine.com ArtPatronMagazine.com
the exhibition and everything else that’s happening at the Palm
Body ART That works in any room....
...and can work any room!
Smiles - Implants - Sedation - TMJ General & Comprehensive Dentistry
Studio
Dr. Rob Strain
Dr. Laura Wittenauer
Dentistry 760/ 568-9494 studiodentistry.com
Talented, seasoned artists and educators to meet your challenges. ArtPatronMagazine.com 21
HIGHLIGHTS
written by Bruce Dodd • photos by Christine Dodd
which Goldenvoice absolutely lived up to. The high-end tickets
Desert Trip
and only five minutes from the assigned seats (including getting
through security). In between the Platinum parking and assigned
under the age of 25 or don’t like classic rock, the biggest names
unbelievable fashion, ample food and merchandise vendors spread
event was billed as Desert Trip. The concert featured the Rolling
square foot air-conditioned Black & White photography exhibit
included Platinum parking located directly behind the stage,
seating was an expansive VIP lounge with comfortable outdoor
In case you have been out of the country for six months, are
furniture to mingle and relax in the shade. The venue was set up in
in rock history came together in October in Indio, California. The
out across several acres, a Ferris Wheel, and a 36,000 thousand
Stones, Paul McCartney, Roger Waters, Bob Dylan, Neil Young and
featuring the work of Jim Marshall and others.
per night, Goldenvoice knew they had a hit on their hands and
Stones, polished and energetic. Bob Dylan seemed to have an
estimated ticket sales of $150 million and sold out in three hours.
in Literature for his “profound impact on popular music and
with premium access and parking came to $3,380. Shelling out
poetic power.” Neil Young absolutely rocked and was possibly the
The Who. Originally set up as a three-day event with two acts
The Rolling Stones were everything you expect from the
had pre-negotiated a second weekend. The six days brought in
extra kick in his step after the announcement of his Nobel Prize
This event catered to a certain age and demographic. Seats for two
American culture, marked by lyrical compositions of extraordinary
this much money for a concert brought with it high expectations,
best performance of the weekend. Paul McCartney was energetic
Marianne Champlin THE ARTISTS STUDIOS 3251 - 3275 Laguna Canyon Road, Unit C1 | Laguna Beach, CA 92651 760.580.0153 | mariannechamplin@icloud.com | ChamplinPaintings.com
“Plymouth Rock Chickens Morning Scratch” 16x20 Egg Tempera on Board
22 ArtPatronMagazine.com 22 ArtPatronMagazine.com
“Warm Fall” Watercolor on Arches Paper 15x20
Scott Donadio gives back
Scott Donadio came into Colin Fisher Studios looking to give
back to the community and the many clients that purchased his pieces over the last 10 years. Donadio wanted to give back by donating a sculpture that would be enjoyed by all in the City. “How wonderful it is to have been so embraced by the
desert communities, particularly Cathedral City and Colin Fisher and so this opportunity to have one of my sculptures on display, is tremendous.”
Donadio has been a sculptor for over 25 years, in fact, much
and rounded out the night with a guest appearance by
of his life. His artistic passion has been working in stone. “I have
opened Sunday with a great performance and Roger
Resolving the unknown through this creative process”. Donadio
Rihanna and collaborations with Neil Young. The Who Waters followed with a heartfelt performance of his Pink Floyd hits and political opinions.
Half of the top dollar seats were still several
always had an uncontrollable desire to create things out of stone.
has always relied on the most basic and somewhat archaic tools – a hammer and chisel – when creating his works in stone.
Along Donadio’s journey into identifying what he always
hundred feet from center stage. Almost every seat in the
considered to be the “Intangible”, he began working with steel
stage, even the most expensive seats. Luckily the giant
steel sculptures are serious in design, but have a whimsical
house required binoculars to see the performers on the screens, placed behind the stage and at the halfway
point in front of general admission, were so large and
so integrated into the performances it was still a great experience for the money.
Question is…..will Goldenvoice put on a Desert Trip
2017, and what acts would have a similar draw?
and welding. His beautiful, timeless and sometimes monumental presence. His sculptures have been exhibited across the country
at such prestigious art events as Art Basil, Miami Florida, as well as a number of art exhibitions at Colin Fisher Studios, including an upcoming exhibition opening November 5, 2016, entitled
“Re-Invention In Form”, which will showcase his work and that of other artists.
So Many Choices - Always Beautiful Results!
Proudly framing in Orange County for over 30 years! Art Consultation Originals, Giclees & Posters Framing of Memorabilia / Sports Jerseys Custom Mirrors | Acrylic Boxes Digital Reproduction Wholesale to the Trade
Pickup-Delivery-Installation 200 Briggs Ave., Unit A Costa Mesa, CA 92626
P 714. 970.2600 F 714. 252.7300 ©2016 Sarah Atkinson, Licensed by Grand Image, Ltd.
Shelly Seboldt
www.BellissimaArtandFraming.com ArtPatronMagazine.com 23 ArtPatronMagazine.com 23
HIGHLIGHTS
Welcome:
Simeon Den Gallery This past September Cathedral
(LA) and decorative art photography by Simeon Den.
Den is an interdisciplinary artist/
City welcomed a new art hot spot, Simeon
educator trained in photography, ballet and
included a performance of “Night” under
and yoga and meditation. He was trained
Den Fine Art Gallery. The grand opening
the light of a full moon. “Night” included
live performances of contemporary dance, acoustic music, spoken word, hula, and Butoh Dance Theater.
The Simeon Den Gallery is a
non-traditional art space showcasing
the contemporary fine and temple arts – art that references the Minimalist,
Modernist, Transcendental, and Zen
aesthetic. The initial line-up of upcoming solo exhibitions include works-on-paper by Siobhan McBride (Brooklyn, NY),
oil paintings by Jon Hamblin (Hawaii),
modernist watercolors by Bruce Kimerer
(NYC), photography by Kym Ghee (LA),
portraiture photographs by Peter Palladino
24 24 ArtPatronMagazine.com ArtPatronMagazine.com
modern dance, choreography, video art,
at The Alvin Ailey American Dance Center and is a magna cum laude graduate from
the UCLA School of Arts and Architecture. He is also artistic director of DiosGracias Butoh Theater, a style best described to
Western audiences as “moving sculpture.” It is a practice that emerged from the postWWII Japanese avant-garde art scene in response to the bombing of Hiroshima. Dancers dressed in white are painted
white and the slow-moving, meditative
style conceptually speaks to the non-linear passage of time.
Simeon Den Fine Art Gallery 68895 Perez Road, #I-27, Cathedral City, 310-801-6538
ArtPatronMagazine.com 25
HIGHLIGHTS
written by Rob Piepho
On The Scene The Bank
LA Today
A day trip took Art Patron to a back alley in the Los Angeles Art District, where we were greeted by Royale Projects ‘ Edwin Ramoran, who was just rolling back the warehouse door in preparation for the LA Today Artists Talk featuring Phillip K. Smith III and Gary Lang. As the first ones to arrive, we strolled through the gallery of rambling corridors, absorbing the energy of the world-class art collection that’s displayed on the building’s high walls. As presented by Carl Schlosberg, the talk was designed to introduce the thirty or so attendees to two of the most prominent artists living in Southern California today—Phillip K. Smith III and Gary Lang. Raised in California, Smith creates his pieces with LED lights, acrylics and metals. Lang, on the other hand, works with acrylics and canvas. Each artist took a moment to speak about his early years, with Smith describing his move from Los Angeles to the desert as a child and his memories of assisting his mother, who worked as an interior designer. He chuckled as he recalled being challenged by her with color charts and trying to decide how one shade of blue differed from another. But it wasn’t until he watched sunlight progress through a palette of hues from dawn to dusk on the canvas of a mountainside that he became captivated by color. As a result, he decided to become an artist and attended the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design. Lang, on the other hand, remembers growing up in Los Angeles and obsessing over the beauty of insects. That appreciation for color led him to enroll in the California Institute of the Arts. As he matured, however, he realized that what separated him from other artists was his search for the truth in each brushstroke. He went on to speak about how his works are easily understood, remarking that you don’t have to read a meaning into them. You simply stand in front of them and lose yourself in their quiet, three-dimensional space. 26 ArtPatronMagazine.com ArtPatronMagazine.com 26
A simple but elegantly printed invitation left us asking, “What is the Bank?” The answer is a beautifully renovated Mid-Century Modern savings and loan building in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, now being rented as a venue for upscale events such as cocktail parties, sit-down dinners, and live performances. Designed by renowned architect E. Stewart Williams, the structure grabbed the attention of famous architectural photographer Julius Schulman a few years after being built. It’s changed hands numerous times over the years, but it took the right group of individuals—John McCoy, Michael Gambill and Robert Fountain—to make the optimum use of the structure’s terrazzo floors and circular vault in creating an elegant and sophisticated space. The doors of the Bank opened on June 22 for a gathering in which attendees were able to view and enjoy the newly renovated décor. We were greeted at the door by two lovely hosts with branded shirts and bright smiles. As we ascended the staircase to the main area, we immediately noticed 10-foot lighted trees, rounded sofas and chrome bistro tables, elements that gave the space a sexy Alice-in-Wonderland feel with edgy modern touches.
The room began to fill with guests, who were served signature cocktails poured into Fido glass jars with clamp lids stamped with the logo of caterers F10. Hors d’oeuvres consisted of bites of San Daniele prosciutto, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, salame Toscana, poached salmon, and kale Pecorino and sweet potato salads. But we couldn’t finish without glasses of Champagne and coconut cupcakes or freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. As the evening drew to a close, our hosts handed us parting gift bags filled with logo caps and gourmet Bloody Mary mixes to remind us of the exhilarating experience. Great going to everyone involved!
ArtPatronMagazine.com 27
Discover v Explore v Find v Shop
Tommy Tune
at the Purple Room
Victoria’s Attic Antique Mall 69930 Highway 111 Suite 113 • Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 760.202.4500 • victoriasatticantiques.com
28 ArtPatronMagazine.com
It was September 3 and the Michael Holmes’ Purple Room was packed with folks waiting for tap dancing Broadway legend Tommy Tune to perform the final night of his three sold-out shows. The spotlight draped Tune as he entered, greeted the crowd and ascended to the stage wearing his standard fitted three-piece suit. He then took a bow as the on-lookers— including Kaye Ballard, Florence Henderson and Palm Springs Mayor Rob Moon—gave him a roar of appreciation. They were there, after all, to support a man they’ve called a friend for many years. Tune showed off his dancing and singing skills and shared stories of the many talented men and women he’s performed with throughout his fifty years of success around the globe. Situated inside the Club Trinidad Hotel, the Purple Room is the hangout where members of the Rat Pack ate, drank and partied during the 1960s. It’s now been restored to an elegant, intimate dinner theatre where audiences can enjoy internationally famed talent. Dick Taylor, entertainment and marketing director of the Cocoanut Grove in Los Angeles, was hired to attract celebrities anxious to perform on the room’s small stage to a nostalgic crowd. Along with previous performers such as Carole Cook and Joanne Worley, Taylor’s choice of Tommy Tune signals that this tucked-away venue has become a prime location for enjoying the best in live performance. And let’s not forget the delicious dinner menu prepared by the talented Jennifer Town. Keep an eye on the upcoming shows, and don’t wait too long—tickets at the Purple Room go fast!
ArtPatronMagazine.com 29
Bruce Bibby and Rob Piepho at Bret Philpot’s Ted Casablanca opening
BARBARA GOTHARD
Ted Casablanca
FINE ART barbaragothard.com gothardfineart@me.com
On October 1st, many art galleries were celebrating the launch of the upcoming season in the desert. One such gallery, Ted Casablanca, decided to kick it off with an opening party to reveal new works of art called “Reverberations� by Bret Philpot. Upon entering the gallery, patrons already filled the space, sipping sparkling vodka cranberry tea in anticipation to see another passionate expression of color and composition by the local artist. Bret attributes his success to how he searches deep into his soul for a spiritual direction that takes him on a journey to uncover raw emotion. He then transfers these emotions into thoughts which are expressed by color and applied to canvas. With the help of music, lingual patterns begin to emerge and evolve in this process. Bret remembers that his career as an artist began in the high desert where he responded strongly to the rugged landscape. This developed who he is as an artist, known for his extreme layering of paint allowing colors beneath to emerge, almost resembling the way desert sand shifts uncovering solid layers underneath. Bret expressed how his style and color palette has changed over the years, but the process of finding each new style never changed. Bruce Bibby, the face and owner of Ted Casablanca, stood on a pedestal and congratulated Bret on his recent works, and expressed his gratitude that Bret supported his vision over the years. He feels Bret is one of the most talented artists in the desert today, and many others feel the same.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 3030ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 31
Art Influencing Art Joe Novak and Charlie Ciali Explore the Creative Process
“I took this task on because it afforded me the opportunity to present, in a very visual and bold way, my sentiments about artists and their place in society.” The writer is Joe Novak, who is not only an artist himself but the guest curator of Visually Speaking: Color & Light at Rebecca Fine Art in Cathedral City. “‘Art’ is not about the art world—the hype and hyperbole,” Novak continues. “‘Art’ is not about the museums or the galleries or events or the artists themselves. ‘Art’ is simply about art, a force that connects generations. The common thread of this exhibition is abstract/nonobjective painting, drawing, print making and sculpture that focus on color and light.” Novak describes the impact that Allen Ginsberg’s Howl had on him. “The poem affected me so greatly that I began to create a series of paintings called Howl. The poem is a poignant protest against society’s treatment of artists” he explains, adding that “an artist is anyone who expresses himself or herself visually, be it in writing, performance or painting. “Artists are often unconventional, with a life that is lived differently from the norm. Many artists are ignored by
written by Angela Romeo established institutions, and because of that are unknown to most people. Art is big business and the very process of that business has allowed the established art world of museums, critics and galleries to dictate what artists and arts are important. It is not about talent or passion. It is about dollars. The less well known artists are, for the most part, treated in the manner described by Ginsberg in Howl.” Novak goes on to talk about what he calls “dialogue” in the creative process: “Art is not always a solo journey. I have been influenced by the work of other artists—sometimes in a dramatic way, other times in a more subtle way. An artist cannot help but be influenced by what he sees and feels. Indirectly or directly, the collaboration between artists is art bridging ego, and defying expectations to create pure art. Art is crucial to us—in our everyday life and as the bridge to generations and societies. “This exhibition features the work of many artists, but all the work captures the concept that art is a force to be reckoned with. It is a life force that captivates us and forms the building block of society. Our present will be judged in the future from the art we leave behind.” Novak adds, “I was very pleased to be included in the exhibition.“
Above: Joe Novak’s luminous, nebulous painting “Libica” (1997), Acrylic on canvas, 78’’ x 102’’ features soft blooms of pigment burgeoning across the canvas. This painting is not an illustration of some celestial phenomenon but instead asserts itself as a vivid chromatic form that has found it’s shape through a combination of natural accident and human intercession. The saturated colors in Donald Spencer’s “Alpha & Omega” (2009) Acrylic and marble dust in acrylic resin on canvas, 60’’ x 72’’ are just as cosmic as “Libica.” The tones flow so seamlessly from one hue to the next, while the transparency of his layers of paint creates the illusion of incredible depth. Definitely two of the most dynamic paintings in the exhibition. Below: David Porter’s “American History Lesson” (1991), Oil on canvas, 30’’ x 34’’ reflects the historic tribes and ancient times. The spiritual quality in this artwork is sublime, and so it is in Charlie Ciali’s “Walking Through My Thoughts” (2015), Monotype on Arches 88 paper, 18’’ x 24.’’ Very simple and fine composition, yet blurry and mesmerizing. These two artworks displayed next to each other symbolize a very compelling statement about humanity, culture and mentality.
32 32 ArtPatronMagazine.com ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 33
“Statue of Liberty”(1983), color screenprint with collage on Japon paper, Artist’s Proof 9/25, 35¾’’ x 24’’ by Robert Rauschenberg, is a highly-worked screenprint and collage composition depicting several images both illustrating, and referring to the Statue of Liberty in New York, providing the viewer with five distinct views of the colossal Neoclassical sculpture. The aluminum surface of Robert Tahar’s “Pierrot in Love,” (2007), Oil on aluminum on canvas, 24’’ x 48’’, is providing different colors of metal & steel while the canvas is filled with gray & dark green erasing all sense of depth. Displaying “Statue of Liberty” next to Robert Tahar’s “Pierrot in Love” you can see how colors characterize the composition of these two artworks.
Another artist included in Visually Speaking: Color & Light is Charlie Ciali, whose works range from encaustic to monotypes to resin. “I think art is like cooking,” he remarks. “Every chef may mix the same combination of spices, but no two are alike. The chef, like the artist, will create something new and exciting.” Ciali draws inspiration from a strikingly different kind of source: “For Visually Speaking I selected two works, Walking Through My Thoughts and Swing This Way. Both are monotypes on Arches 88. The works are from my series that pays homage to one of my favorite photographers, Eadweard Muybridge. His photographs of motion were not intended to be ‘art,’ yet his work had great influence on visual artists. It is clear to me that these two works are the essence of Visually Speaking. “The works are my narrative that speaks to the genius of Muybridge. For Walking Through My Thoughts I created a plate that is reusable—the man walking—and superimposed a human head in the center of the images. As the man passes through, he becomes clearer and brighter. It is the moment that we
34 34 ArtPatronMagazine.com ArtPatronMagazine.com
understand, that we comprehend. The images above are farther back, a memory or a thought yet to be fully understood. Ciali explains that Swing this Way is based on a motion study by Muybridge of a man swinging a baseball bat. “Here the batter is swinging in the direction of the arrows found in the two heads. Through the use of color and light, there is a third head in the center that is not as defined. This is that place where we make decisions, where things are not black and white but grey and undecided. This piece reflects much of my political leanings. The batter is swinging to the left, the arrows are going to the left if you are on the inside looking out. “Both these works play not on light but dark, which visually speaking is how light is defined. “ Visually Speaking: Color & Light also includes works by James Turrell, Larry Bell, Robert Rauschenberg, Tim Townsley, and many others. The exhibition runs through December 31, 2016, at Rebecca Fine Art, Perez Art & Design District, 68895 Perez Road, Suite7, Cathedral City.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 35
36 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 37
BOOK EXCERPT
“Unguarded and naked, even when fully clothed, the
images in this book capture a time that Bowie himself would
call “the most difficult time of my life,” but Andy Kent’s photos bring a humanity, a warmth and a beating heart that can only
come from one highly skilled artist rightfully earning the trust of
fashion, women, music, friends... and collaborators. Over the
years he would work with giants and unknowns in every walk of creative life - and we’re blessed to have this document of the year that Andy spent traveling the globe with David Jones.
“I can’t give everything,” Bowie sang in the clearly
another. Artist creating art, and art creating artist.
autobiographical song from his final album, but to look at
this year, days after the release of yet another highly imaginative
Andy’s time of close personal access, Bowie most certainly,
Bowie was taken from us all too soon at the beginning of
and haunting record, Blackstar. He was a champion of all things creative, and he truly had ridiculously good taste... in art, 38 ArtPatronMagazine.com
the images of Andy Kent, one can only take notice that in spectacularly... did exactly that.”
-Cameron Crowe
ArtPatronMagazine.com 39
“Given David’s penchant for role-playing, and that he seemingly
lived his entire life as one extended exercise in performance art, Andy achieved something quite remarkable: he somehow managed to
penetrate the veneer of a rock superstar known for being the ultimate
chameleon. It takes a true artist to accomplish that. Andy’s photographs of David will not only stand the test of time; they have become even more fascinating with David’s passing earlier this year. They are
40 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 41
42 ArtPatronMagazine.com
significant works of art that are as important to the history of pop culture as any photos ever made of any musician.
As a photographer you can’t dream of anything better than that.�
- Neal Preston
PUBLISHED BY:
Press Syndication Group t: 646.325.3221
2850 North Pulaski Road #9, Chicago, Illinois 60641 www.psgwire.com
warren@psgwire.com
www.davidbowiebehindthecurtain.com
Dreaming Up the Ideal Retirement Is Your Job. Helping You Get There Is Ours.
IRT-1848C-A
To learn more about why Edward Jones makes sense for you, call or visit a financial advisor today.
Geoff Fellows Financial Advisor
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
32392 Coast Hwy Suite 190 Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949-499-4028 ArtPatronMagazine.com 43
ARTIST PROFILE
Chasing the Light
An Interview with Acclaimed Landscape Painter Tom Swimm written by Kimberly B. Johnson
44 ArtPatronMagazine.com
“Across the Grand Canal”
ArtPatronMagazine.com 45
Before Tom Swimm found himself as a writer, playwright, composer and painter in Laguna Beach, he was working as an advertising artist in the country’s brashest metropolis—fast-paced, no-nonsense, no-sleep New York City. But he was familiar with that
environment, having been born and raised in the region and spending his formative years in the city taking in its cultural amenities.
“I always sketched and painted, even at a very young age,” Swimm
remembers. ”In high school, my interest in art became more focused and it was at this time that I took some art classes and spent time reading about
artists and visiting museums in New York. Van Gogh was a major influence in my work, not only for his paintings, but for his passion for art that came through in his writing. The way he used color and applied brushstrokes is unique to his vision.
“Edward Hopper was another source of inspiration,” Swimm
continues, “especially his paintings of architectural and urban subjects. His work always captured very subtle nuances of light and shadow, something I try to do in my own work. Many other artists from the Impressionist
period were an influence, including Monet and Cezanne. I learned so much just by studying their painting—as much as I could. Having access to all
the museums in New York was a great advantage. My childhood and high
school years weren’t the happiest times in my life, but when I could retreat into painting, it provided a world where I felt more confident.”
After finishing high school, Swimm went on to work for a newspaper
“A Private Little Harbor”
46 ArtPatronMagazine.com
in upstate New York. “College didn’t interest me,” he explains, but
working on the paper turned out to be a great learning experience for the
“Beach at Positano”
ArtPatronMagazine.com 47
“Venice Taxi” young creative. “It taught me about writing, visual composition, printing, how to deal with deadlines
and also how to work with groups of people. After the newspaper, the ad agency business came next, where
my ‘street education’ continued. It was New York in the
Mad Men days and it gave me a lot of knowledge about
the art business, photography, visual composition, color and design.”
In 1982, with his wife and young son in tow,
Swimm relocated to Laguna Beach, where he was
immediately inspired by the West Coast’s light, life
and profound landscape. Here he renewed his love for painting, beginning again with a newfound vigor and a lust to chase the light wherever it might lead. Soon
afterward, a friend suggested that he submit his work to the Festival of Arts. “I had my doubts,” Swimm
recalls, “but I was surprised that I was accepted on
my first try. That was 1987 and the Festival became a
pivotal turning point in my transition from commercial art to becoming a ‘fine artist.’”
Nearly 30 years ago, during Swimm’s very first
day exhibiting at the Festival, his wife—who, Swimm 48 ArtPatronMagazine.com
HOPA
HOUSE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ART San Juan Capistrano, CA
A Major West Coast Reservoir of Vintage and Contemporary Photographic Works of Art
Cordially Invites You to View a Life-size Exhibition of the Work of notes, had always believed in his ability to make a living off of his creative work—sold one of his
paintings. Soon Swimm’s art began gaining recognition
Phillip Stewart Charis
idyllic landscapes and seascapes. It wasn’t long before
M. Photog., Cr. F-ASP 1927 - 2015
for its masterful execution and warm, soft depiction of
Swimm met Paul Jillson, the owner of Laguna’s Pacific Edge Gallery, who gave the artist his first exhibition in
1990. That show, says Swimm, changed his life forever.
The romantic interplay of light on surfaces is what
Swimm strives to capture, and it’s his ability to do this
that has earned him such acclaim. “So much of painting is about observation,” he explains. “Even though I
work from my photos for reference and am primarily a studio painter, I study the effects of light and shadow in all that I see. Capturing that single moment where light reaches its peak at certain times of day is a challenge, but it’s what I strive to capture.”
By now Swimm’s work has been displayed on
the walls of numerous galleries, and at one point his pieces hung in a dozen galleries across both coasts
and in Hawaii. In addition, the artist is a favorite of
collectors, public figures, and celebrities. Early on in
Critics, reviewers and auction houses all agree, “Fine art photography is a new affordable collectible.” Also featuring: Ansel Adams, Graham Nash, Ernie Brooks, Linda McCartney, Arnold Newman, George Hurrell, Alfred Stieglitz, Edward Steichen and Baron Adolf de Meyer To attend openings, lectures or schedule a guided tour,
please call 949.496.5990
Gallery Open to the Public by Appointment 27184 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 ArtPatronMagazine.com 49
his career, he painted a portrait of Woody
Desert Rocks
Allen and sent it to the actor and director. After receiving the portrait, Allen replied
with a thank you letter, noting that it was
a very gracious gift as well as an excellent likeness. Others who own Swimm’s
works include television personality
Mary Hart, songwriter and composer
Burt Bacharach, Baywatch co-creator Greg Bonann, and actress Tai Collins.
“Glowing Harbor”
HEPHAESTUS PALM SPRINGS’ PREMIER DESIGNER JEWELRY GALLERY
In addition to being an accomplished
artist, Swimm is a teacher and active community member concerned with
132 La Plaza Palm Springs 760.325.5395 www.HephaestusPS.com www.metalorgy.us
building bridges to further generations.
“I love working with kids” he says, “and
have been involved in teaching programs
Exhibit your best creations in Laguna!
at the Boys & Girls Club, the Bowers
Museum and the Arts Project of Orange County.” He’s also shared his painting
methods in textbooks and instructional videos.
Oil | Acrylic | Watercolor | Mixed Media Pastel | Charcoal | Colored Pencil Printmaking | Photography | Jewelry | Glass Ceramics | Sculpture | Bronze | Fiber Art Leather | Woodcraft | and more
Swimm is a doting husband and
father as well. He met his wife at the
age of 16, and the two have enjoyed 40 years of marriage and the challenges
and triumphs that come with them—
including supporting each other through tough decisions such as career changes. Thankfully, those decisions have paid
Jury Day is February 12, 2017
off. Swimm notes that his most treasured gift is his son Jesse, who’s worked as a professional stage actor for over 20
For complete entry information & artist prospectus visit:
years, played the lead role of Bert in Mary
www.art-a-fair.com/call-for-artists-2
Poppins on Broadway, and is currently in the Tony Award-winning musical School Of Rock on Broadway as well.
Summer
FINE ART FESTIVAL
2017
Tom Swimm now lives with his wife
and works in Laguna Beach, where he
participates in the Festival of Arts every
June 30 – September 3, 2017
year and creates every day. 50Jury_Day_LB_Art_Patron_Magazine_01.indd ArtPatronMagazine.com
1
9/28/16 7:36 AM
ArtPatronMagazine.com 51
52 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 53
ARTIST PROFILE
The Day I Bullied Sir Anthony Hopkins into Admitting He’s Zen written by Stacy Davies
54 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 55
Being in the “stream,” the state of
consciousness in which creativity flows
unobstructed by fear or judgment—that is the goal of artists. It can take years of pushing through insecurity and
criticisms—both real and imagined,
both just and unjust—to reach a place
in which one is content merely with the
act of creating, regardless of what comes
afterward. And most of us never get there. It helps if you’ve already been wildly
successful in some other field, although that, alone, never ensures confidence.
When I spoke with Sir Anthony Hopkins by phone from Maui (he in Maui, me,
unfortunately not), the one theme that
kept popping up, and that he consistently
referred back to, was that he really doesn’t care if you like his work. His paintings,
specifically. He might care if you like his acting, but I doubt it—besides, he has a shelf of statuettes to back that up.
When it comes to his other creative endeavors—which also include
Sebastian’s Appraisal Gallery Certified Personal Property Appraiser
composing music, something he’s toyed with since he was a boy—he’s perfectly fine with your ignoring them, and pleasantly surprised if you’re touched. He also thinks it’s amusing when he’s analyzed, which I attempted to do, at
length, eliciting only polite responses that I might be right.
“People come up with these
fascinating analyses about everything,” he laughs, “and I honestly don’t know what
they’re talking about. I’m not interested in any of it, not in an academic way.”
Throughout our conversation, I try
to worm my way into his head, and he
patiently allows it with little comment— he’s not willing to admit to much. When it comes to discussions about concrete
things in his life, however—the beauty of
Appraisals | Antiques-Fine Art Estate Insurance|We do Estate Sales 69040 E. Palm Canyon, Suite B|Cathedral City, CA 92234
760.774.0295 56 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Maui, the gray, drab surroundings of his
childhood, the vibrant colors of California landscapes that drew him to the States and that he often incorporates in his paintings—he’s more interested.
LGOCA • Laguna Gallery of Contemporary Art Joseph Moscoso “Gemini ll” Synchronized Glass Sculpture 16”x 16” x 30” ea.
611 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach CA 92651 • lgoca.com • 949-715-9604 • 949-677-8273 Robin Hiers “Surfing Way of Life” 40 x 40 Mixed Media
ArtPatronMagazine.com 57
“I come from Wales, which is a very
dull climate normally, and I love color,”
Hopkins says. “When I paint, I choose a
color and put it on the canvas and it just evolves. If there’s a mistake, I just paint over it.”
I ask if he believes there are mistakes
in art.
“No, not really. Sometimes, I look
at it and think I should change things,
sometimes I leave it alone. I just go into
the studio, I don’t plan anything. There’s
no philosophy or psychology behind any of it. It’s like being blindfolded. I just do
Cena Rasmussen Painter of Heavenly Places
http://cena.rasmussen. FineArtAmerica.com
C21Cena@aol.com 760-218-6637
Mounted bust portraits in clay or bronze from a photograph. No financial obligation unless totally satisfied with the results. Jim Caterine jimcat77@hotmail.com
760-324-9432
what I can do.”
I protest that there is psychology
behind it—we just haven’t figured his out yet! He laughs, and instead of debating the point, offers two brief stories of
Gary Cooper and Picasso, and Richard Burton and Picasso. (Sir Anthony does love Picasso.) In short, the tales run
along the lines that Picasso had lunch
with Cooper in Paris and then made a drawing of the fish carcass they’d just
ravished, and handed it to Cooper. A fish, is a fish, is a fish—there was no intent. Likewise, Picasso paid for a feast he
shared with Burton by making a sketch on the bill. A drawing as currency, with no
premeditation. Hopkins wins the point,
and is quick to add that he is no Picasso.
I offer that what he’s doing is organic,
and that is somewhat philosophical. When I suggest that he’s being Zen, creating in
a stream of consciousness, he pauses for a 58 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ROBERT R. BRADSHAW artist/illustrator
“Time to Change Places”
VERY CONTEMPORARY
If you are not familiar with the creative genius of Robert R. Bradshaw, the time has come. With a technique he invented, Bradshaw reveals beautiful worlds of wonder and despair. His originality and talent put him in a class all his own. Representation:
WOODMAN/SHIMKO GALLERY
“Provincetown to Palm Springs 3000 miles of art” 1105 N. Palm Canyon drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262 (Uptown Design District) 760.322.1230
rrbradshaw@DC.RR.com • 760.864.8569 • www.figurist.net
A BRADSHAW...IS DE RIGUEUR!!
ArtPatronMagazine.com 59
moment, thinks, and partially commits. So I push, determined to pin down an
admission that, on some level, he does
have feelings about the work he claims he forms no attachment to once it’s completed.
“You do have the need and the
desire to paint, don’t you?”
“I enjoy doing it,” he says matter-
of-factly. “I spend three days in the
studio and I paint, and then I think I
better stop. I don’t need to add more
time to it. Yes, I love doing it and I’m constantly surprised that these [art]
shows come up. I’m very pleased that it’s happened.”
“Ah! So, there is a satisfaction!”
“Oh, yes! But I can never remember
how I created it. I just don’t have
that ability to appraise it. So, that’s
an expectation, I guess. I was never
academically trained or have formal education in it. I just know about
practice – doing something over and over and over. Like with acting. You
PROFESSIONAL AFFORDABLE COURTEOUS
learn it by repetition. I suppose it’s a desire or obsession. If you know
something so well, you don’t have to
think about it. I just go with the flow. I
recognize it when it comes. I guess, yes, it’s a bit Zen.”
I secretly revel that I got what I
wanted—I think—and then wonder why it was so important in the first
place. Why do we need to know what makes people tick? Why was I so
“Yeah, we install that!” Faucets & Toilets
Garbage Disposals
Water Treatment • Pool Repair
Water Heater/Tankless
Insta Hot Water • Remodels
Re-Pipe • Video Inspection
Leak Detection
Drain & Sewer Clean Out
obsessed with getting into this man’s head? What were the mysteries I’d
hoped would be revealed? I wanted
the keys to his process. His emotional manual. A slight inkling into how he
creates. None of these admissions ever really help another artist or make any
artist knowable, of course, and I realize that Sir Anthony has been right all
Residential & Commercial • Serving the Coachella Valley
760-285-7678 Lic.#915504 Bonded & Insured
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE 60 ArtPatronMagazine.com
along.
“I don’t even know how I became
an actor,” he laughs. “Does it have a
magical meaning? Why talk about it? Just get on with it and do it.” Mystery solved.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 61
FEB. 16-19, 2017
Palm Springs Convention Center Opening Night Preview Thurs. Feb. 16
art-palmsprings.com
Robin Layton, Courtesy of Winston Wächter Fine Art
Formerly the Palm Springs Fine Art Fair
62 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 63
ARTIST PROFILE
Creations That Last a Lifetime The Artwork of Sukhdev Dail written by Kimberly B. Johnson
Sculptor and painter Sukhdev Dail was born in a small village in Punjab, a region of northern India whose name means “the land of five rivers.”
Known for its rich natural resources and humble way of life, Punjab is “very fertile,” the artist explains, “and is considered a bread basket of India.” The son of an Ayurvedic doctor and
surgeon and the grandson of a horse
breeder and landowner, Dail enjoyed a
wealth of experiences in his birthplace.
college’s front garden, but Dail himself was itching to move on.
“I have traveled from Kashmir in the
“Village life differed, for we had no ready-
north to Kerala in the south of India, a
granted in a city,” he says. “We made our
explains. “Marveled at Kashmir’s natural
made toys or amenities that one takes for
own and used our own imagination, since nobody told us how to do it.” He recalls
carving toys from wooden sticks with his pocket knife.
Dail’s formative years in Punjab
encouraged the growth of his imagination and creativity, traits necessary to his
very survival. “We played outsiade as
children, and even with a temperature
of 100-plus degrees, we didn’t carry any
water with us. On the way to school, we
drank from a stream, and if hungry, we’d climb a mango tree, get into a nearby corn field or eat raw sugar cane for a
distance of about 2000 miles,” the artist
beauty, which would be an inspiration for any painter of landscapes, and enjoyed the Ajanta caves in the south for their
abundance of wall paintings glorifying the human body with such grace and
elegance. The same is to be said about the temples, carved in stone, with each inch of the space covered with a multitude
of human and animal figures, depicting stories and legends. As a young artist, those experiences left an indelible
impression on me, and gave a certain
direction to my future artistic attempts.”
Anxious to see the art of Europe, Dail
snack.” Nourished through years of such
traveled with several companions along
to achieve success as an artist throughout
ran out of gas in the midst of a brewing
experiences, the young man was destined India, Europe and America.
Graduating from the Delhi College
of Art in 1962, Dail was offered a teaching opportunity at the Teacher’s College
in Phagwara, where he created his first
sculpture, a larger-than-life image of an 64 ArtPatronMagazine.com
archer, in 1964. The piece still stands in the
India’s ancient Grand Trunk Road. They sandstorm, and after abandoning their car, opted to walk. The storm washed over them with fury, but eventually
they reached a village and found a gas
attendant who drove them back to their car. Continuing on, they reached Iran
w/Shimko Gallery “Palm Springs Just Got Cooler™”
1105 N Palm Canyon Drive | Palm Springs, California 92262 | 760.322.1230 www.WoodmanShimkoGallery.com | WoodmanShimkoGallery@gmail.com
-Provincetown To Palm Springs: 3,000 Miles Of Art™398 Commercial Street | Provincetown, Massachusetts 02657 | 508.487.0606 ArtPatronMagazine.com
65
before their car truly gave out and had
numerous private collections of many art
‘installation’ adjoining the invisible old
awards as well. In 1985 he was invited
to be abandoned. “It became yet another Trunk Road,” Dail remarks.
After reaching Brussels, Belgium,
Dail was admitted to the city’s Royal Academy Palace de Beaux Arts and
of his 20-year career at the India’s Chandigarh Museum.
Since then Dail has found himself
in Laguna Beach, living near a state park
small compared to Paris, but had all
recent piece, a 10-foot bronze sculpture
the amenities, museums and galleries necessary to an aspiring artist.
Dail eventually moved to Canada,
where he supported himself as an
animator, and in time got a call from Bill Hanna of Hanna-Barbera Productions
where deer and bobcat roam. His most entitled Sea Breeze, stands on the
community’s main beach. He sometimes takes an early evening walk to visit
the sculpture and often finds tourists
snapping their photos with his creation. Dail travels to Europe and India
asking him to come to Hollywood to
every year to touch base with his family
a director for such studios as MGM and
first stop is England, where I visit my
work as a layout artist. He hired on as Universal, assignments that allowed him to continue his career as a fine
artist as well. Dail held a one-man show at the prestigious Ankrum Gallery in
Hollywood in 1971, exhibiting ethereal abstract paintings that found homes in
66 ArtPatronMagazine.com
to hold the first retrospective exhibition
held his first one-man exhibition at the Gallery Romain Louise. The city was
Halcyon 1 resin over steel, 38” high
collectors. The 1970s brought him several
and nourish his creative roots. “My
son Mavi and visit the Blott Gallery,
which exhibits my work. The next stop
is Croatia, since my wife Marija is from there. I also have a gallery in Zagreb
that exhibits my art, and a studio on the
mountain of Biokovo which I share with
vintage • modern • furniture
68929 perez road cathedral city california, 92234 (760) 770-4447 at-homps.com 67 ArtPatronMagazine.com
a friend, the sculptor
for an hour. At home I have my breakfast
the old Roman road, and I
working day starts. I feel that I have made
Milan. The studio is by
find it very soothing, even spiritual, where we work in stone, and rest among the olives and grapes
overlooking the Adriatic
I have studied at the academies of the
world, seen the arts of the East and of the West, of the old and of the new.
“I was always searching for the art
that was in me,” Dail continues. “One
into the distant past,
what kind of art to create? What kind of
hearing horses’ hoofs on the cobbled stones, as
they transport marble sculptures and other
treasures down these ancient roads.”
Dail still practices
a philosophy of being
present and making each day count. “I start each
day at 5:00 a.m. with yoga and stretching and at 6:00 I bike to the beach, where I
walk barefoot in the sand and meditate
68 ArtPatronMagazine.com
a full circle as far as art is concerned:
Sea and neighboring islands. I am carried
Nude 17
and a cup of chai or macchiato, and my
has to come to terms with his own soul;
message to emit? Is it important to have
a message? Not really, for even when an art is created for its own sake, there is
a message in it, if a viewer wants to see it—he makes it up himself. And that’s fine. I dig deep into the universe, and
close to myself; I touch the delicate line that vibrates as it connects us all—be it humans, birds, animals or plants. I
try to create a form, a space, colors and
compositions that evoke emotions, that last a lifetime.”
ArtPatronMagazine.com 69
COLLECTOR PROFILE
Pat Sparkuhl’s Plenty 70 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Clockwise: Untitled, painting by Bill Boaz; War Chest, assemblage-Pat Sparkuhl; La Virgin – ink drawing, unknown prison artist
ArtPatronMagazine.com 71
written by Liz Goldner • photographed by Tom Lamb One of Pat Sparkuhl’s favorite paintings is a large
horizontal oil featuring his wife, Heather, smiling broadly while sitting on a paddleboard at Laguna’s Diver’s Cove. Painted by Bradford Salamon, Infinite Dance hangs above
Sparkuhl’s fireplace, and is one of several pieces created by
friends and colleagues on display in his home. Here also are
and appearance of the nearby palm trees. These include Record Tower and A Pair of High Heels, the latter made from discarded shoe heels. These totem-like artworks pay homage to the
culture that Sparkuhl grew up with, to a time when surf music proliferated and women often dressed up.
A visit inside his home reveals an abundance of personal
works by local expressionist Sandra Jones Campbell, longtime
works. Near the entrance is a large, untitled, uncontrived
Nordstrom, who captured Heather floating on a paddleboard
feet. Created over the 35 years since the birth of Sparkuhl’s
Sawdust exhibitor Dion Wright, and photographer Jim
along Main Beach and surrounded by dolphins. For Sparkuhl, living a joy-filled life, appreciating the art of others, and creating his own works are inseparable pursuits.
Among Sparkuhl’s other treasured pieces are the 30
surfboards in his back yard, some of them decades old. He
uses just a few of them when he surfs nearby and displays the rest, as each one is a hand-formed work of art, he explains. A dedicated surfer since the age of 11, when he moved to
Laguna, Sparkuhl became an artist in part due to the hours
he spent alone on a surfboard as a child and teen. “It was me
on a board, surfing the waves on my own,” he says. “And it’s
me alone in my art studio making my assemblage art pieces.”
He adds that these two passions are not only complementary; they inspire each other.
A tour of Sparkuhl’s own artworks begins in the front
yard of his 1920s vintage bungalow in North Laguna. Here he is surrounded by assemblages that reflect the rough texture
72 ArtPatronMagazine.com
installation, attached to the ceiling and measuring 7 by 13 daughter, the assemblage consists of old license plates,
SPARKUHL
Opposite Page, Clockwise: Pat & Heather Sparkuhl; Gembi Sahi – photograph by Patrick Gris; Reader; Untitled; Wally the Warthog. This Page, Clockwise: Painting by Bradford Salamon, Infinite Dance; Sunset – painting by Gerald Schwartz; arrangement of nine books from the Bible Series. ArtPatronMagazine.com 73
disposable cameras, a Day of the Dead figure, a dinosaur toy,
sorcerer, creating haunting and beautiful pieces. His hope is
more souvenirs.
our deepest yearnings, frustrations, anxieties and addictions.
records, puppets, masks, photographs of old friends and many Throughout his house are more sculptures made from such
cast-off materials as antlers, barbed wire, books, candles, cast feet, cast torsos, ceramic figures, copper wire, crutches, dolls,
human hair, molded teeth, photographs, religious icons, swords and wishbones. Sparkuhl weaves these items together like a
74 ArtPatronMagazine.com
that these artworks will reach into our psyches by speaking to One such piece is Faids, which addresses the scourge of AIDS
in our society. Shaped like a Gothic arch, the sculpture features a symbolic mother made from a mannequin head, fragmented
coins, human figures symbolizing the illness’s victims, and cast
figures representing scientists searching for a cure. There is also
Opposite Page: Hot Summer, painting by Gregg Stone; Still Life #3, photograph by Jerry Burchfield This Page: Coming Together – ink drawing by Oscar Campos
a shrine illustrating women as victims, as well as a plastic bird
Bearing Witness is a commentary on the brutality of the
representing release, freedom and resolve.
Holocaust, on how Jews in concentration camps were forced to
along the Mexican border, particularly, he says, “the plight
chambers. Its materials include a violin, human hair collected
Sparkuhl’s No Child Left Behind deals with drug trafficking
of children growing up without trust for adults.” This piece
features a child’s head encased within a stocking and a heart.
Other symbolic items include crinkled pesos and dollar bills, cast skulls, a rosary and a sculpted priest wearing elegant vestments.
play beautiful music as their fellow prisoners entered the gas
from 55 different people, and plastic dolls’ hands holding barbed wire.
The most compelling work in Sparkuhl’s home, Bible Series,
is an ongoing project composed of 21 individual pieces, with
Show: Now thru January 8, 2017 Old Mill in Pasadena, Ca
“Sunset at Laguna Beach” Oil 16”x 20”
Elaine Mathews
elaineartist.com • elaineartist@yahoo.com ArtPatronMagazine.com 75
each piece featuring a real Bible. To these he has attached dolls’ heads, gambling materials, a gun, a grenade, the figure of a bishop holding a skull, an image of Porky Pig, a devil with a crown, and a bride
and groom from a wedding cake. The artist explains that the project confronts the hypocrisy of some of today’s conventional religious practices.
Upon leaving his art-filled residence, Sparkuhl walks up North
Coast Highway to a place that is a second home to him. This is the site
Secret Environments Personal Environmental Design
Magnificent Living Works of Art • Museum, Botanic Garden, Zoo, Public Aquarium and Upscale Hotel Quality for Private Homes and Businesses at Affordable Prices • Interior and Exterior • Large and Small Bringing the Natural, Organic World into Your Metropolitan or Suburban Space • The Ultimate Fusion of Primeval Nature, Advanced Technology and Artistic Sensibility • Virtually Unlimited Possibilities.
Some environments we create:
v v v v v
Vivaria, aquaria, aviaries and terraria Interior and exterior waterfalls and water walls Interior and exterior planted walls Planted atria, ponds, streams and artesian springs Wildflower meadows and native wildlife gardens
v v v v
Bird and butterfly gardens Lush, colorful xeriscapes Ultimate dog runs, cat porches and other pet habitats Repurposing of old aquaria, atria, difficult interior nooks, side yards and other old, unused or unsatisfying spaces
Serving Palm Springs, The Coachella Valley and Southern California Call Rex at Secret Environments 760-567-5428 Today for a FREE Consultation and Estimate or Check Our Website at www.SecretEnvironments.com 76 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Opposite Page: Misbuttoned Shirt – painting by Andy Gerber; Tattoo Parlor – mixed media by Dennis Clendenen This Page: Angel – painting by Juan Cervantes; Angel Series (Pat Sparkuhl) – photograph by John Hesketh; studio shot
of the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts permanent collection, where he has been working since 2010. Within this 1,500-square foot-
space, he examines, arranges, catalogues and watches over the
Here, the former art professor and Festival of Arts exhibitor/ juror communes joyfully with the paintings.
When asked to explain what he considers to be the value of
restoration of the festival’s 1,100-piece collection. These classic
art, Sparkuhl replies, “The understanding and appreciation of
Anna Hills’ The White Barn (1920), Joseph Kleitsch’s Laguna Beach
magical way.” He adds, “When you feel passionate about issues
pieces include William Griffith’s Saddleback Mountain (1938),
(1926), William Wendt’s Studio in the Canyon (1930), Scott Moore’s Pigeon Man, Monterey (1985) and Ken Auster’s Laguna (1996).
art is like a contagion that affects most people in a positive and and ideas, and then express those feelings in art, that is true freedom.”
ArtPatronMagazine.com 77
78 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 79
COLLECTOR PROFILE
A Tale of Two Cities The Collections of Gil Rose and Stan Russell written by Angela Romeo photographed by Terry Hastings
80 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Dickens’ Tale of Two Cities opens with the observation, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” To avid art collectors Gil Rose and Stan
Russell, their residence in Palm Springs and their getaway condo
in San Diego constitute a somewhat different tale. “The difference is the desert home reflects a resort ambience while the condo has
an urbanity only a large city can offer,” Russell points out. “When
we purchased the San Diego property on Balboa Park, an artist we collect actually believed we purchased it to house her work.“
The pair travel regularly between their two dynamic collections
of contemporary art. “Our San Diego and Palm Springs homes reflect not only our love of art, but our love of life,” Russell continues.
“They are different in that the desert collection is staged in a gallery and spa-like setting, while the penthouse has an NYC energy about it. We find joy in art that evokes happiness in both settings.” The
two share a connection with each other as well as with their art. “We normally migrate to the same work,” Rose quips, “but feel the art buys us, not the other way around.”
Above left: “Girl with Birdcage” by Gene Logan. Steel construction. Above Right: “Mother Earth” A 500-pound rock crystal and steel fountain designed by collectors, Gil Rose & Stan Russell. Below: “Pivot Abstract” circa 1997 by Brad Howe. Painted steel construction.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 81
“Portrait of Thomas Goylar� dated 1973 by Roger Robles. Note: Robles is represented in the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC. Both the artist and the subject reside in the desert.
82 ArtPatronMagazine.com
“Art is acquired in many ways,” Russell adds. “We have
“Resin-coated Panels” by local Palm Springs artist, David Travis.
purchased from galleries, directly from the artists, online and
from secondary sources such as Revivals and Angel View. These are local charitable resale shops where, with patience, one can find amazing works. It is not about the source, it is about the passion.”
The San Diego residence reflects a tasteful aesthetic
blending the natural light and the canyon’s views of Balboa
Park with the tongue-in-cheek playfulness of the art itself. “San Diego is a different lifestyle from Palm Springs,” Rose says.
“The art reflects those differences. The Rebecca Lowry Sweater, for instance, is perfectly suited for San Diego. It belongs here. The marine rope used to knit the piece feels more seaside
costal than desert sand. More importantly, the piece reflects our sentiment about art in a general sense. Lowry’s work blends
into our environment. The scale and proportion of the work,
while familiar, also challenge us as viewers to connect with the work. The idea of a whimsical challenge is fascinating.”
The Palm Springs house, which dates from 1948, was
designed by Allen Siple of Westwood Village fame in LA and built by Paul Trousdale. The sprawling, Spanish-inspired
exterior fits squarely in the early Mid-Century Modern style for which Palm Springs is noted. The home’s interior has a very
In a hacienda-style house, Rose explains, life revolves
definite modern feel, and was designed to draw visitors to the
around the courtyard. “We have used the exterior spaces to
to challenge your aesthetic. Once you enter the gate there is a bit
each pocket of exterior space is a chance for us to create a unique
a journey onto all the ‘what ifs’ that art can evoke.”
people to experience the integration of art in all settings.”
individual pieces in the collection. As Rose remarks “Our goal is
showcase artwork that incorporates the outside/inside aesthetic;
of a wow factor. We love that! The first step into the courtyard is
vignette. All rooms open into the art-filled landscape. We want
“Homage to Nevelson” Wood assemblage created by collector Stan Russell.
“Endeavor” by Rebecca Lowry. Knitted from 100-pound test line marine rope. (San Diego condo)
“Metal in Motion” by Don Mitchell. Painted steel construction. (San Diego condo) ArtPatronMagazine.com 83
84 ArtPatronMagazine.com
The covered outdoor loggia is a favorite place for the owners to sit and view the art filled grounds.
“A Moment of Inertia” a collaboration by Stan Russell and Tolley Marney.
The Palm Springs home reveals
a bracing mix of artists from the
community, Southern California, and
beyond. “Jeanne Bradley did one of our
favorite pieces,” Rose points out. “It was also one of the first pieces we purchased
together over a decade ago. We also have
country journey of the artist. Paul started in Provincetown, moved to New York
City, where the piece was purchased, and retired to Palm Springs. Paul has become a friend we continue to collect. Art does have a circle of life!”
Both Rose and Russell are very
works from Rik Phillips, David Travis,
conscious of that circle. “Art lives
Marney.
caretakers. It is important to us to know
Brad Howe, Russell Jacques and Tolley “In our desert collection,” Rose
continues, “we also have a work that has come full circle, a ceramic piece created in 1964 by Paul Bellardo. It came to me
from my aunt, who lived in Manhattan
all her life. It has traveled from New York across the country to find a home here in Palm Springs. It mirrors the cross-
on forever,” Rose insists. “We are its
who will be the next shepherd of our
collections. Gil and I are very conscious of that responsibility and we have begun to
take steps to ensure that the legacy of our collection is preserved.
“Art, death and taxes are
inescapable,” he laughs. “Understanding
that from an emotional and practical side ArtPatronMagazine.com 85
86 ArtPatronMagazine.com
is important. What we lovingly refer to as
“and volunteer as curator for art and
to help and bring joy to others. Art can be
HeART of Giving Program. Client art
the ‘junk’ in our homes has great potential given to others—as gift to personal friends and family or to charitable organizations. Art can be sold—cash is easy to tax and
perhaps re-invest. Art can be divested as
part of an estate plan. People need to look at options and discuss these options with a qualified professional.
“Many think that giving work to a
museum is the only path. It isn’t for many reasons. First, donating to a museum is
a process. The potential gift needs to go
through levels before it may be accepted. The piece needs to fit the museum’s
goals and within its curatorial criteria.
collectibles. This is embodied in The
regularly hangs in the hallways of the
Desert AIDS Project, the D.A.P. Art has
been part of the healing process for clients ever since Philanthropist Steve Chase donated gifts from his design firm’s
collection to the project. People can follow in these same footsteps by donating,
gifting or bequeathing art to D.A.P. They can contact me or Major Gifts Manager Ron Willison at 760-992-0445 or e-mail
him at rwillison@desertaidsproject.org. Art is meant to live on, and this is one way for it to do so.”
Besides taking place in the best of
There is a very good chance, no matter
times and the worst of times, A Tale of Two
accepted.
and a season of light. But Gil Rose and
how generous the gift, that it may not be “Another opportunity to consider
is a bequest or divesture to a non-profit
referred to as a 501(c)(3). Many nonprofits
are more than willing to accept a donation when it comes with no strings attached.
The charity can keep, loan, exhibit or sell
the work—in short, use it in a manner best able to serve its needs. The art lives on
and accomplishes more than bringing joy. “I am an involved with the
Cities was also set in an age of wisdom Stan Russell’s tale is more than that. It
involves personal love coupled with the joy of art, all wrapped in the promise of
hope. “Knowing that the collections make us happy and bring joy to others, today and into the future, makes them all the
more special,” Rose concludes. “Art does live in the worst of times and in the best of times.”
Desert Aids Project,” Rose elaborates, ArtPatronMagazine.com 87
COVER STORY
Phillip K. Smith iii
88 ArtPatronMagazine.com
A Visit to the Studio
“Thirteen years to become an overnight success.” That’s how Phillip K. Smith III describes his career as an artist.
It all started three years ago on five acres of
high desert as Smith stared out the window of an
abandoned shack while tuning into the landscape. At that point in his artistic development, he
decided to take on his first self-initiated large-scale project, turning the small structure into the global sensation we now know as Lucid Stead.
Smith remembers staring for hours across
a rugged terrain without a single living thing in
sight as he watched the sunlight change color. He explained that “when it rained outside, it rained
inside through the deteriorating wood and missing door of the abandoned 70-year old shack.” It
was then that he said to himself, “We have to do
something with this place,” and began drawing out a conceptual idea on paper. Once he was able to
get the financial backing needed, he made his idea a reality.
Smith’s intention was to invite 30 to 40 friends
to the unveiling, not knowing that he would get
200 visitors the first weekend. Before long, Lucid Stead turned into a social media phenomenon.
Smith was overwhelmed with national, and then international, requests to visit the illuminated rustic spaceship that had just appeared in the
desert an hour and a half north of Palm Springs. It was a turning point in Smith’s career, earning him a spot in art history textbooks on college campuses worldwide.
The project also sparked more experiments
written by Rob Piepho
with light, in the process landing Smith an
ArtPatronMagazine.com 89
“Lucid Stead is about tapping into the quiet and the pace of change of the desert. When you slow down and align yourself with the desert, the project begins to unfold before you. It reveals that it is about light and shadow, reflected light, projected light, and change.�
90 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 91
92 ArtPatronMagazine.com
“Created just six months after Lucid Stead, Reflection Field was directly inspired by the four windows and doorway of the Joshua Tree installation. These simple elements became monolithic, free standing volumes of reflection, creating their own space within the field of the Coachella Music and Arts Festival.� ArtPatronMagazine.com 93
94 ArtPatronMagazine.com
opportunity for an important installation at the
for Laguna Beach and Laguna Art Museum’s Art
attracted audiences with his Reflection Field, a cluster
near the ocean and a project in the desert that will be
famed Coachella Music Festival in 2014. There he
of monoliths designed to take festivalgoers into an enveloping color field of tranquility, encouraging
them to “take a time out” and allow themselves to be
transported into an alternate reality of space and color. In the spring of 2017 Smith will be participating
in another Coachella Valley milestone when he
participates in Desert X. Smith explains, “I am looking to progress from what was first created in ¼ Mile Arc
and Nature by creating a dialogue between a project created for Desert X.”
Smith’s work continues to be in demand, allowing
him and his team to take on more commissions around the globe. These installations need no explanation; they are constructed in a universal language
combining space, light and color. The ability to unify
the world through what we see and experience in his work is what inspires Smith today.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 95
96 ArtPatronMagazine.com
In an exclusive interview with the art world’s new rock star, Art Patron
visited Smith to get an inside look at what he is working on and what he is
most excited about in the months ahead. A tour of his two-story studio and gallery—an industrial building situated in a Palm Desert business park—
allowed us to see how the artist’s career has developed over the past three years.
Initially we found the space overwhelming, thanks in part to the
massive LED pieces, once exhibited at the prestigious Royale Projects, that
adorn its walls. When I asked Smith how he chose this particular complex, he explained that the business park had hired him in 2007 to place his first commissioned public work at its entrance. That meaningful interaction is
what sealed his future, he says, and the location reminds him of where he came from and what he has set out to do.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 97
“Unlike the other Lightworks pieces that have precisely set color shifts and duration, Torus 9 shifts randomly between my defined color spectrum and pace of change parameters. The result is an experience that may never be duplicated.” Smith is passionate about changing the way we look at art.
We will have that very experience November 3 through
We discussed how a viewer typically devotes a short period
6 when Smith unveils 1/4 Mile Arc, his Art + Nature series
next piece. Smith wants to change that pattern by capturing
each year’s selected artist to create a work that interacts with
of time to any particular work, then moves on quickly to the an audience and setting up a kind of dialogue or interaction, encouraging viewers to take the time to watch as the piece evolves and morphs through a spectrum of colors.
98 ArtPatronMagazine.com
installation for the Laguna Art Museum. This program allows the natural environment. Smith will set up 300 ten-foot polished stainless steel rods along the natural contour of a quarter-mile stretch of beachfront separating the natural from the man-
made. Depending on which side they are on, viewers will see
panels angled at 120 degrees, the work resembles an open
reflected the ocean, the sun and—between the rods—the heart
essentially wrap the viewer in a field of color. Given the way it
a reflection of one of two worlds. On one side they will see
of downtown Laguna Beach. The other side reduces the world we live in today, the world of bustling Laguna Beach, into a
two-dimensional plane with the undulating ocean and horizon
book standing on end with color on two sides. The piece will
is designed, it also creates the illusion of a third wall of reflected color combining the colors from the two panels.
“The experience reflects not only an image of you in that
visible between the rods. Either side makes sunset an especially
color field, but also the world as we know it”, Smith explains. At
Visitors to the Laguna Art Museum can also experience
on the color side looking through?” This is an interaction that we
spectacular experience.
Smith’s other installation, Bent Parallel, on display inside the
museum until January 15, 2017. Consisting of two large hinged
that point “you begin to question which side you are on. Are you will have to determine for ourselves, but we hope it changes the way we see and experience art.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 99
Looking Forward to the 2017 Palm Springs International Film Festival An interview with Alissa Simon and Hebe Tabachnik written by Nicole Borgenicht
Top Photo: CateBlanchett at 2016 Awards Gala Bottom Photos, left to right: 2016 Hello My Name Is Doris with Sally Field; Helen Mirren at the 2016 Awards Gala; Talking Pictures with Ridley Scott and Matt Damon; 2016 Film Festival Party
100 ArtPatronMagazine.com
The programmers for the Palm Springs International Film Festival—the PS Festival for
short—meet several times a year to
discuss trends and choose the best films
in each targeted category. Art Patron was fortunate to interview the two renowned experts serving in this capacity for the 2017 festival, Alissa Simon and Hebe Tabachnik.
A film curator for 25 years, Alissa
Simon has participated in festival juries from Pusan to Montreal, San Francisco, and Sarajevo. For the 2017 PS Festival,
she will follow films from Scandinavia, Central and Eastern Europe, and the
Middle East. Hebe Tabachnik has been a film curator for more than 15 years,
serving as juror and panelist at festivals
throughout the Western Hemisphere and China. The Ibero-American programmer for the festival, Tabachnik will be
reviewing films from Spain, Portugal and Latin America.
The PS Festival selects some of the
world’s finest cinematic achievements. “As far as what makes us different from other film festivals,” Simon
explains, “we are the only one to offer ‘Awards Buzz,’ a specially curated
section made up of what we consider
the top submissions in the Best Foreign
Language Film category of the Academy Awards.”
The festival is also noteworthy for
its global range. As Tabachnik points out, some of the “40 to 50” countries
represented are unfamiliar to audiences prior to the public viewing.
ArtPatronMagazine.com 101
Strengthening the festival’s mission is a powerful school system
that embraces the arts in all areas. Plus, the Palm Springs High School Performing Arts Center has an 800-seat theatre, providing another wonderful venue for the festival.
“My personal favorite part of curating is the high school
screening,” Tabachnik remarks, “followed by the question-andanswer with the director. To me, these events are highlights, as
teenagers are passionate and embrace different cinematic interests. Their reactions are inspiring! This presentation is part of the Palm Springs International Film Festival mission, with 500 to 600 high school student viewers, which is part of a larger Palm Springs educational event.”
Aside from the thrill of encouraging young people to become
involved in the ever-growing world of cinema, seeing and selecting outstanding films for the PS Festival is an exciting experience. Says
Simon, “Among the many things I enjoy about being a programmer
is the opportunity to make discoveries and present them to our large and discerning audience in Palm Springs, the press and the industry. For instance, a film that I programmed in the 2016 edition, a Belgian first feature that won our New Directors competition, went on to
take a slew of prizes at other festivals. But Palm Springs presented
its international premiere! After all the hard work of watching many, many movies throughout the year, it is incredibly gratifying to
102 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Still from After Image introduce the filmmaker and the film in Palm Springs and see
the connection and energy flow between our audiences and the filmmaker.”
While not all the competing films have been seen or
evaluated yet, Simon has given us a teaser on a great art film she is already enthusiastic about. “I can reveal one film from
my selection, Afterimage, which will be shown at the festival in
its U.S. premiere. Directed by one of the great masters of world
cinema, Andrzej Wajda, it is an impassioned biopic about avantgarde painter Władysław Strzemiński, a man of extraordinary charisma and a leading figure of Polish formalism before the
Andrzej Wajda Tabachnik describes how the acceptance of popular
cinematic forms has grown in the Iberian world. “We embrace
genre films (horror, thriller, suspense, etc.) more and more. Prior to this year, compelling genre stories were only those with high production costs, yet now more filmmakers in my category are
delivering very, very good genre films without a bigger budget. They are mastering techniques outside the comfort zone and
telling their stories all over the world. El Clan Argentine director,
Pablo Trapero, is hired for many new films and is in demand. My category has jumped a level in quality.”
Tabachnik and Simon spend months watching films,
Second World War. He was a victim of persecution by the
eventually putting together a dynamic program that ranges
realism. The film also stars one of the most beloved actors of
animation. This Palm Springs International Film Festival will
Communist regime for failing to embrace the dictates of social Polish cinema, Bogusław Linda.”
from small and intimate relationship movies to comedy and
highlight global filmmakers at their creative and stylish best!
ArtPatronMagazine.com 103
Calendar
What to do?
Winter is no time to hibernate. For proof, look no further than our Editor’s Picks. We have combed the extensive offerings in both Laguna Beach and Palm Springs to help stave off your FOMO. Need more choices? Check out our complete calendar of events at www.ArtPatronMagazine.com
Laguna Beach
Palm Springs Nov 12 thru 25
Friday, November 4, 7pm
In Person: Phillip K. Smith III Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach 1/4 Mile Arc artist Phillip K. Smith III discusses his work. Included with museum admission. Lagunaartmuseum.org/artandnature ; 949-494-8971
Opening Reception Nov 12, 6-8 pm Terry Hastings - BEYOND HOCKNEY Colliding Worlds Fine Art, 68-895 Perez Rd., Cathedral City CA, The Multiphoto works of Photographer Terry Hastings www. collidingworldfineart.com, 866-458-3592
Saturday, November 5, 10-4 pm Sunday, November 6 - 11-3 pm
Tom Swimm Open Studio Exhibit Sale 3251 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach Large selection of original oil paintings and signed giclées by one of Laguna’s premiere artists! Refreshments and plenty of Free Parking. Tomswimmfineart.com; 949-715-1705
Saturday, November 12, 5pm
The Diamond Ball The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Gala Benefitting The Canine Companions Wounded Veterans Initiative. Dinner, Live/Silent Auction, & Entertainment by X Factor Winners Alex & Sierra - $250 Thediamondball.org; (949) 240-2000
Sunday, November 13, 10-4 pm
Holiday Outdoor Fair The Cottage Gallery, 31701 Los Rios St. San Juan Capistrano Cottagegalleryonlosrios.com
Saturday, November 19, 10 -6 pm
Winter Fantasy Five Weekends: Nov. 19 thru Dec. 18 Sawdust Art Festival, 935 Laguna Canyon Rd Laguna Beach Our festival grounds transform into a winter wonderland where 175 artists create, display and sell original creations. Art media includes jewelry, clothing, fused and blown glass, ceramics, woodwork, forged metals, painting, photography, sculpture, clothing and textiles. Sawdustartfestival.org 104 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016
Three Pianos-Six Hands-One Performance, A Piano Extravaganza McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert, CA 92260 Waring International Piano Competition winners play solo and together on 3 Steinway concert grand pianos. www.vwipc.org, 760-773-2575
Sunday, December 11, 2016, 10am - 4pm
“ARTIST OPEN STUDIO TOUR” La Quinta, CA An annual artist studio tour event sponsored by the La Quinta Museum. Tickets are $10.00 at the Museum, 77-885 Avenida Montezuma, La Quinta. For more information, call 760.777.7170.
January 1-27
Sir Anthony Hopkins Show: Dreamscapes Desert Art Collection 45-350 San Luis Rey Ave. at El Paseo, Palm Desert, CA An Artworks Exhibition by Academy Award winning actor, Composer and artist. Call to ask about Collector Artist Reception. www.desertartcollection.com 760-674-9955
PRES ENTS
Three Pianos - Six Hands ONE PERFORMANCE - NEW PROGRAM! Thursday, November 17, 2016 7 pm • McCallum Theatre
Experience the thrill of three virtuoso pianists — Waring winners, playing solo as well as on three pianos at one time!
SCOTT CUELLAR 2013 Solo Winner
EVAN LIN 2011 Bayless Winner
VIJAY VENKATESH 2007 2nd Place Solo Winner
BACH, GOUNOD, MOZART, ROSSINI, TCHAIKOVSKY AND HOLIDAY FAVORITES
Special appearance by soprano Anna-Lisa Hackett, courtesy of Palm Springs Opera Guild
Sabon 11 track 150
Tickets at McCallum Theatre Box Office or Online at: McCallumTheatre.com 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert • $67 / 47 / 27 / 17 • 760-340-2787 www.vwipc.org
•
501 (c) 3 No. 33-0025613
ArtPatronMagazine.com 105
Gerald Patrick
Laguna Beach
Art Studio
Kaleidoscope Acrylic on Canvas 72” x 72”
Thursday, December 1, 6-9 pm
North
180 0 V ia
N
Vista Chino
io
Walgreens
oc eg
1800 Via Negocio Suite 9 Palm Springs, CA 92262 gpatrickdesigns@gmail.com www.geraldpatrick.net
Sunrise Way
Open by Appointment: 702.232.0821 #9
First Thursday Art Walk The 2016 LCAD Professional Mentoring Program exhibition The public is invited to tour participating galleries to view student art works. For more information please visit www.firstthursdaysartwalk.org
Friday, Dec. 2, 2016, 1-8pm
TRUNK SHOW with Phyllis Clark Just Looking Boutique 384 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach Come on by hospitality night and see the lovely avant garde jewelry of PHYLLIS CLARK...known for her creatively unique styling and one-of-a-kind pieces. Please join us! Justlookingboutique.net (949) 494-8208 Come meet Art Patron staff at this event!
Saturday, December 3, 10 & 11:30 am
Nutcracker for Kids Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa Tchaikovsky’s delightful Christmas ballet—in a condensed version especially for kids Tickets from $15 PacificSymphony.org (714) 755-5799
Saturday December 17, 5-7pm
Gallery Opening Reception Annual Membership Show & Competition, 3851 S. Bear St So. Coast Plaza Village 50 OCFA Members compete for cash prizes in their medium, refreshments, free parking ocfinearts.org; 714-540-6430 106 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Palm Springs Friday, January 6, 2017,
Opening Reception: 6pm–9pm Art Exhibit –“A Lifetime of Art” Colin Fisher Studios An exhibit of paintings from Colin’s vast and amazing personal collection. This is the first time in 10 years that Colin has released these works of art for viewing and sale. 929 Home Center, 68929 Perez Rd Cathedral City 760-324-7300
Saturday, January 7, 5-8pm
Masters of Abstract Art Rebecca Fine Art Opening Reception 68895 Perez Rd., CathedralCity A unique exhibition with acknowledged artists and artworks that speaks for itself. Robert Tahar, Donald Spencer, Joe Novak, Mario Pikus, Robert Reeves. Free admission. For more info visit Fineartvortex.com or call 760 534 5888
The premier art event in the leading destination and community of fine art galleries.
SAVE THESE DATES
Saturday, January 21, 2017
“Art on Main Street” Old Town, La Quinta, CA An all-day outdoor exhibition featuring the original works of 70 artists, paintings, photography, ceramics, glass, metal sculpture, jewelry, and textiles. Live entertainment. 10am-4pm Free Admission & Parking. www.OldTownLaQuinta.com Information: 310-986- 5444 www.dianemcclary.com Studio: 760.771.6666
T H U R S D AY
|
NOVEMBER
3RD
|
2016
T H U R S D AY
|
DECEMBER
1ST
|
2016
T H U R S D AY
|
JANUARY
5TH
|
2017
Join our member galleries throughout Laguna Beach on the first Thursday of every month from 6 - 9 pm for an art-filled evening. F I R S T T H U R S D A Y S A R T W A L K . O R G ArtPatronMagazine.com 107
26892 Preciados | Mission Viejo
For Sale
For Sale
5 bed | 3 baths | List Price: $850,000
For Sale
This San Velarde model is situated on a huge secluded lot! Open floor plan with travertine floors, designer paint, custom mahogany built-ins with lights and travertine/marble finishes. Gourmet kitchen includes SS appliances and travertine counter tops and lots of cabinets. Kitchen flows into the family room with a cozy FP and has a built in desk. All BR’s are upstairs. The MB has a walk-in closet with built-ins and a balcony. The backyard is gigantic! Black bottom pebble tech pool & spa, built in BBQ. Award winning elementary. school.
For Sale 45 Sheridan | Ladera Ranch
For Sale
For Sale
2 bed | 3 baths | List Price: $474,000
For Sale
Exquisite townhouse with high ceilings, inviting floor plan with natural light throughout and engineered wood flooring in the main living areas! This home boasts an expansive living room with FP. The kitchen has granite, SS appliances, and flows into a large dinning area and family room. Huge granite island seats 3-4 people. Home has new Pex plumbing throughout and has lots of privacy! Attached 2 car garage. Spacious porch. Plenty of walking trails, parks, pools,tennis and award winning schools! 24792 Lagrima | Mission Viejo
Sold
$655,000
19431 Rue De Valore #12H | Foothill Ranch
Sold
$309,900 R E A L E S T A T E G R O U P
Rochelle@RochelleSellsOC.com | 949.533.1262 Notary #1938675 | CalBRE #01759496
108 ArtPatronMagazine.com
26605 Verbena | Mission Viejo
Offered
$520,000
RochelleSellsOc.com OrangeCountyValues.com Moving2OrangeCounty.com Probate4OrangeCounty.com
Laguna Beach Tuesday, January 3-29, 2017
Opening reception Jan 3 6-8 pm Open Casa: SHANE TOWNLEY
Casa Romantica 415 Avenida Granada San Clemente Shane Townley’s surrealism style is about evoking an emotion or feeling about the subject of his work. Casaromantica.org (949) 498-2139
Wednesday Jan 11 – Feb 5, 2017
CHAPATTI! Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach Written by Christian O’Reilly and directed by David Ellenstein is a charming tale of two devoted pet owners; reminding us it’s never too late to fall in love. Visit website for show times. Lagunaplayhouse.com (949) 497-2787
Sunday, January 15, 3 pm
Casa Kids: Swazzle Puppet Show Casa Romantica 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente
Children participate in the puppetry show with games that teach important lessons about manners and habits. Free admission, Casaromantica.org (949) 498-2139
ArtPatronMagazine.com 109
w
Palm Springs an eclectic collection of all things modern
ART & DESIGN CENTER 68-929 Perez Road Cathedral City, CA 92234 760.770.5333 info@modern-spaces.net
Tuesday- Saturday 11-5 Sunday 12-5 Special Hours during Modernism Week
Thursday thru Sunday January 26-29, 10am-5pm
“The Southwest Arts Festival” Empire Polo Grounds, Indio CA One of the country’s premier art festivals. Interactive art displays, live music, and a huge variety of fine arts will be on display. www.dianemcclary.com Studio: 760.771.6666 Come meet Art Patron staff at this event!
February 16-19, 2017
Art Palm Springs Palm Springs Convention Center 277 N Avenida Caballeros Palm Springs CA The 6th annual Art Palm Springs returns to an eager audience. www.art-palmsprings.com Come meet Art Patron staff at this event!
February 16-26, 2017
MODERNISM WEEK Modernism Week’s cool, iconic, modern February festival is an exciting 11-day celebration of midcentury modern design, architecture, art, fashion and culture. The schedule and tickets will be available November 1 at 12 p.m. PST. Events are added frequently and there are always events accessible up to and during the festival. modernismweek.com
Thursday thru Sunday March 2 – 5, 2017
35th La Quinta Arts Festival 78495 Calle Tampico La Quinta CA This award-winning event attracts art patrons and tourists from across the nation as one of the Coachella Valley’s premier attractions. Live Entertainment, Delicious Food, Wine and Beer complement your experience. www.lqaf.com 800-316-8559 Come meet Art Patron staff at this event! 110 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Don’t Re-Floor...Restore Marble | Granite | Travertine | Limestone | Mexican Pavers | Tile & Grout Cleaning
BLUE STEAM
CARPET, TILE & STONE
BLUE STEAM TILE & STONE RESTORATION
offers a safe and efficient cleaning & restoration alternative that saves you time & money. BEFORE
Call today for a FREE in-home consultation
760.360.4000 CSLB #929946 Licensed Bonded & Insured
AFTER
Serving All of Southern California ArtPatronMagazine.com 111
PHOTOGRAPHY
952.484.5002 112 ArtPatronMagazine.com
Poolboy
thehastingsgallery.com Raindrops
Stay with Me
Mitre & Bevel Fine Custom Framing • Professional Art Installation Storage, Crating and Shipping of Artwork. Find out why so many artists and collectors entrust their works to Mitre & Bevel. INDIAN WELLS LOCATION
CATHEDRAL CITY LOCATION
74-931 HIGHWAY 111
68-713 PEREZ ROAD, SUITE B-17
INDIAN WELLS, CA 92210
CATHEDRAL CITY, CA 92234
PH: 760-773-5260
PH: 760-202-2333
www.MitreandBevel.com
Custom Stretched Canvases Custom Built Artist Canvas • Artists’ Panels Canvas Restretching and Giclee Stretching Custom Stretched Canvases hand builds top quality, pre-stretched, gallery wrapped canvases, in almost any size or shape requested, and ships directly to artists nationwide. 68-743 PEREZ ROAD, SUITE D-30 CATHEDRAL CITY, CA 92234 PH: 760-321-1042 • CELL: 760-831-0154
www.CustomStretchCanvas.com ArtPatronMagazine.com 113
114 ArtPatronMagazine.com
ArtPatronMagazine.com 115
PHILLIP K. SMITH III Bent Parallel
October 16, 2016 - January 15, 2017 Laguna Art Museum 307 Cliff Drive Laguna Beach, CA 92651
1/4 Mile Arc
November 4-6, 2016 Main Beach, Laguna Beach
Phillip K. Smith III is represented by
royale projects
116 ArtPatronMagazine.com
432 S Alameda Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 (213) 595-5182 www.royaleprojects.com