CONTEMPORARY CULTURE
Issue_
39
P RE M I U M G O U RM E T
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Summer Issue_39
SPOTLIGHT 16
#UNLOAD Guns In the Hands of Artists
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Strolling SoWa Exploring Boston’s Arts District
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Philanthropy Tuesday’s Children
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Philanthropy The Floating Hospital
FEATURES
44
Cover Story Boston’s Betsy Silverman Makes the Cut
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Bronze Beauties by Sculptor Sterett-Gittings Kelsey
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54
EVENTS + GATHERINGS
A Conversation with Tommy Chong
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Travel Summer in Saratoga Springs, New York ON THE COVER Featured artist, Betsy Silverman Red Lobster, 12” x 16” see page 44 66
CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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50
24
FCBUZZ 2018 Arts & Culture Empowerment (ACE) Awards
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Silvermine Galleries Highlights from, Perfect Partners: Art in Design
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ArtsWestchester The Hudson Valley Art Scene
CHRISTINE MARIE WEXLER
bramasolephotography.com
Summer Issue_39
27
Highlights Boston Design Week and AD20/21 HOME + The Boston Print Fair
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Greenwich Polo Club The Luxury Marketing Council of CT-Hudson Valley’s 3rd Family Polo Day
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Highlights The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center annual Spring Gala
70 30 PULSE 70
Art Museum Garage in Miami’s Design District
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Stage Taye Diggs Makes His Directing Debut
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Film Peter Fox reviews Final Portrait Written and Directed By Stanley Tucci
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DECORATIVE ARTS SUSTAINABLE
APPETITE
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35
Clear Group International Clearly Sustainable
STYLE 34
8
Style Guide Extravagant Buys this Summer
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
36
The Golden Palate The Best of Bar Harbor and Maine’s Mid Coast with Fred Bollaci Fearless Chef The Bohlsen Restaurant Group
40
Cocktail Culture A Chinese Mixologist takes on London
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Cocktail Culture A Spirited Conversation
ART SPIRIT 64
Modern Day Masters of Pastel
78
On the Block A Selection of Summer’s Offerings
VENÜGRAM 80
Featured Lisa Mikulski
IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Publisher’s Letter
SM
Artist: Deborah Butterfield Courtesy of Danese/Corey, New York
Artist: Ewa Bathelier Courtesy of Galleria Ca’ d’Oro
A SINGULAR DESTINATION FOR THE BEST IN MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART
Artist: Stefan Kürten Courtesy of Alexander and Bonin, New York
Artist: Hung Yi Courtesy of Emmanuel Fremin Gallery
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Welcome to our Sustainable Issue, where everything you read about is dedicated to
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
improving the quality of our lives and the
We also want to take this opportunity to thank the incredible patron of Herman Margulies’ pastels, Dianne Bernhard, for
world we love. From our cover story trifecta
their provocative works in #UNLOAD: Guns
her role in recognizing and revitalizing this
honoring the work of collage artist Betsy
in the Hands of Artists, a new exhibition in
wonderful medium for future generations
Silverman, the first annual REVEAL Art Show
the Walsh Gallery in Fairfield University’s Art
and Jacquie Grande, the brainchild behind
and the treasures and pleasures of horse
Museum running through October 13.
REVEAL, a unique international contemporary
haven, Saratoga Springs, New York, to the
Joyce Clear, CEO of Clear Group Inter-
art fair being held in Sarasota Springs from
debut of our new SUSTAINABLE section and
national and founder of Ports of Cause,
August 2 through 5 – and VENÜ is a media
all the accomplished artists we’ve profiled
a non-profit organization established “to
sponsor. As Jacquie says, “art unites us…
inside, we are off to the races big time with
promote, inspire and accelerate sustainable,
providing a common language that resonates
features that celebrate a common theme of
forward thinking solutions for the health of
among people from diverse backgrounds and
social conscience!
our oceans,” is headlining our inaugural SUS-
cultures, connecting us in unexpected and
Moral leadership is a hot topic at Venü.
TAINABLE features. Both of her ventures are
challenging ways through beauty, creativity
That’s why we seek out movers and shakers
uniquely dedicated to creating awareness
and artistic vision.” We couldn’t agree more.
who are concerned with giving back not
and engendering a positive outcome for
This summer if you are in the New York
taking away, who are eco-oriented, ethi-
the interconnected health of our oceans and
area, be sure to make your way to PRIME,
cally tuned and socially responsible, and
ourselves. We will be showcasing a variety
recognized by Fred Bollaci (and us!) as a
who add beauty and bounty to our world
of worthy efforts that promote the luxury of
great way to toast and taste the best season
through theirs.
sustainability in every upcoming issue.
eatings. And head up to Saratoga Springs to take in the healing waters and hospitality that
Take Boston artist Betsy Silverman whose
Hats off to Connecticut fine art sculptor,
works are exclusively created from old
Sterett-Gittings Kelsey who, along with
magazines (Venü would be honored to be
memorializing the beauty of dance in some
There are many more fascinating stories
immortalized this way!) She is passionate
300 investment quality sculptures, has
inside that promise to sustain your interest
about recycling paper whenever she can
crafted a beautiful bronze Freedom Angel
in the arts and the art of life, including a
and hopes her small gesture may have a big
to watch over our veterans who give so much
look inside Miami’s Art Garage, SOWA Arts
impact with people who see her art. Or the
of themselves for our benefit. She’s looking
District in Boston… and a timely conversa-
artists who artfully addressed the issue of
for angels to join her cause; we’re onboard
tion with Tommy Chong and the marijuana
guns and gun violence in America through
with her all the way!
culture… so read on and enjoy.
make this a must-experience destination.
Tracey Thomas Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Cover Story - Pg. 44 Betsy Silverman Darling Tom, 24” x 30” 10 10
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
Pilobolus Performance Explosion
Jane Fonda
Speaking Out: Artist as Social Activist Thursday, September 27, 2018 | 8 pm Private Dinner Reception | 6 pm (limited space available)
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PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHEIF Tracey Thomas CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nichole D’Auria I Nisu Creative FEATURES EDITOR Cindy Clarke FOOD EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Fred Bollaci FILM & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Peter J. Fox EDITORIAL & MARKETING Lisa Mikulski DECORATIVE ARTS EDITOR Matthew Sturtevant MANAGING LIFESTYLE EDITOR Sandra Guibord CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susana Baker, Dianne Bernhard, Fred Bollaci, Cindy Clarke, Nona Footz, Peter Fox, David Green, Nancy Helle, Linda Kavanagh, Janet Langsem, Molly Lieberman, Lisa Mikulski, William Squier, Hannah Stein, Matthew Sturtevant, Carey Mack Weber VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & OPERATIONS Debra Menich
— S A R AT O G A C O U N T Y, N Y —
perfect
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From our famous mineral springs and world class horse racing, to great golf, polo, a fun arts scene and national historic sites, it’s all waiting here for you. Plus so many places to eat, drink and make merry. Choose from lovely country inns, bed and breakfasts, full service resorts, or your favorite chain hotel. You’ll find us so very accommodating.
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SALES Susie Earls Kim Sullivan ADVISORY BOARD Nona Footz LEGAL COUNSEL Alan Neigher, Sheryle Levine (Byelas & Neigher, Westport, CT) DISTRIBUTION Thomas Cossuto, Man In Motion, LLC OFFICE 840 Reef Road, 2nd Floor, Fairfield, CT 06824 ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@venumagazine.com EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTION editorial@venumagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS subscribe@venumagazine.com Venü is printed with soy ink THE SMALL PRINT: No responsibility can be taken for the quality and accuracy of the reproductions, as this is dependent upon the artwork and material supplied. No responsibility can be taken for typographical errors. The publishers reserve the right to refuse and edit material as presented. All prices and specifications to advertise are subject to change without notice. The opinions in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Copyright VENÜ Magazine. All rights reserved. The name VENÜ Magazine is copyright protected. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without written consent from the publisher. VENÜ Magazine does not accept responsibility for unsolicited material. This is a quarterly publication and we encourage the public, galleries, artists, designers, photographers, writers (calling all creative’s) to submit photos, features, drawings, etc., but we assume no responsibility for failure to publish submissions.
Moshin vineyards
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JULY 5-8, 2018 BRIDGEHAMPTON MUSEUM on Montauk Highway rt. 27
Image courtesy of Jen Wink Hays and Uprise Art.
artmarkethamptons.com
Exclusively at
263 Riverside Ave., Wesport CT, 06880 web: www.xpozur.gallery email: info@xpozur.gallery phone: 1+203-557-3646 AVARICE SERIES, 2018 - INSTALLATION "PLEASE HELP!"
- h100" x w72"
SPOTLIGHT:
Exhibition
#UNLOAD: Guns In the Hands of Artists A New Exhibition Opens in the Walsh Gallery
2 1 3
works of art that address the issue of guns and gun violence in America. The exhibition originated in mid-1990s New Orleans, where a spiking murder rate led artist Brian Borrello
Written by Carey Mack Weber, Asstistant Director, Fairfield University Art Museum Photography Courtesy of Jonathan Ferrara Gallery
to conceive of the first iteration of the Guns in the Hands of Artists exhibition, bringing the discussion about the role of guns and gun violence in our society into the realm of art – art as the language for dialogue, and possibly change – without the often partisan
16
ON THURSDAY, MAY 31ST, THE FAIRFIELD
and polarized politics that surround the issue.
Exhibition organizer Jonathan Ferrara
UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM, in partnership
Borrello and gallery owner Jonathan Ferrara
said, “As an artist, activist and social entre-
with #UNLOAD and the Guns In The Hands
mounted this exhibition at Positive Space
preneur, I asked myself, ‘What can I do to
of Artists Foundation, opened the exhibition
The Gallery in September 1996 in the Lower
address this issue that pervades our society?
#UNLOAD: Guns in the Hands of Artists in the
Garden District of New Orleans. In 2014, Ferr-
Putting together this exhibition is my way of
museum’s Walsh Gallery, in the Quick Center
ara reprised the exhibition featuring new work
doing something. It’s my goal to use art and
for the Arts. The evening began with a lively
by internationally recognized artists. Through
the creative process to facilitate new, frank
panel discussion moderated by Helen Klisser
their own medium, each artist has used the
dialogue about gun violence and guns in
During, co-founder and artistic director of
decommissioned firearms to create works that
our society.”
#UNLOAD, with several of the exhibiting
express a thought, make a statement, open a
The exhibition offers the opportunity to
artists including Margaret Evangeline, Paul
discussion, and stimulate thinking about guns
continue the national conversation about
Villinski, and guest curator Jonathan Ferrara,
in our culture.
guns and gun violence with a focus on
on “Art Making for Social Change.” The
Since 2014, the exhibition has traveled to
Connecticut’s response to the challenges
exhibition viewing and a reception with the
The Aspen Institute in Colorado, Washington
posed by the threat of gun violence, and the
DJ Dr. John (John West) and over 300 people,
University in St. Louis, Art Basel Miami Beach,
tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School
followed the sold-out panel.
Minneapolis with Pillsbury United Communi-
in 2012.
Each piece in the exhibition was created
ties, and Washington DC at the New America
On Thursday, September 12 at 5 p.m., the
using decommissioned guns, taken off the
Foundation and in the Rotunda of the Russell
museum will host a panel discussion in the
streets of New Orleans via a gun buyback pro-
Senate Office Building. This is the first time
Wien Theatre titled “Gun Violence in Con-
gram, and distributed to painters, sculptors,
that the exhibition, which includes five new
necticut: Realities and Paths Forward,” which
photographers, poets, and other artists who
works created just for this iteration, is being
aims to facilitate public engagement on the
used the decommissioned firearms to create
presented in an art museum.
realities of gun violence in Connecticut, and
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Photo courtesy of Fairfield University Art Museum
4
weigh the value of different approaches to reducing accessibility to guns. On Thursday, September 20 at 7:30 p.m., a distinguished panel moderated by Congressman Jim Himes will engage in a conversation about “Gun Violence as a Public Health Crisis.” The culminating event presented in conjunction with this exhibition will be on Friday, October 12. A “Closing Night Party”
5
will showcase a world premiere dance of a
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new work by Movement Art Is (MAI), com1. Luis Cruz Azaceta, Carry On, Drugs & Teddy Bear, 2014, Mixed media with suitcase, 39 x 22 x 15 inches. Photo by Neil Alexander 2. William Villalongo, Sleeping on Reason, 2014, Gun, ceramic head, velvet flock, velvet pillow in Plexiglas box, 12 ¼ x 12 ¼ x 8 inches. Photo by Neil Alexander
missioned by the Quick Center for the Arts. MAI, featuring artists Jon Boogz and Lil Buck, is creating this work in response to the powerful works in the exhibition. Additional programming is in the final stages, and will
3. Paul Villinski, Never, 2018. Decommissioned guns. 13 ¾ x 53 x 2 inches. Photo by John Groo.
be updated at fairfield.edu/unload.
4. Ron Bechet, Why! (Is it Easier to Get a Gun than an Education, a Gun Instead of Help?), 2014, Map, gun parts, paint on wood panel; 28 x 38 x 5 inches. Photo by Neil Alexander
an arts-based initiative in Connecticut that
5. John Schuerman, Plaything, 2017, .45 caliber gun, children’s table and chair set, teddy bear, ink drawing on paper, 37 x 36 x 20 inches. Photo by Jade Patrick
for more information about the many events
6. Marcus Kenney, Girl with Gun, 2014, Sublimated print on aluminum, 61 ¼ x 43 ¼ inches, Edition 2 of 3 with 1 AP. Photo Marcus Kenney
This exhibition is a part of #UNLOAD, seeks to drive consensus around the divisive issue of gun violence. Visit unloadusa.org taking place across the state in 2018 that will engage our communities in vibrant dialogue about this important issue. #UNLOAD and the Fairfield University Art Museum believe in the power of the arts to ignite change in society. ¨ The exhibition hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12-4 (closed for the month of August) thru October 13th. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
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SPOTLIGHT:
Destination
Top to Bottom: SoWa Arts Market; Lanoue Gallery; SoWa Farmers Market Opposite Page Top to Bottom: Nedret Andre Studio; Soprafina Gallery
Strolling Boston’s SoWa Exploring Boston’s Arts District Written by Lisa Mikulski Photographs courtesy of SoWa Boston
The SoWa Art + Design District (given the name for its location South of Washington) comprises over 300 contemporary galleries and artist studios, the SoWa Open Market, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and high end restaurants. In 2015, SoWa was ranked #2 in USA Today’s top ten art districts in the country. Boston is a walking city and SoWa spans the area from Massachusetts Avenue to Herald Street, and from Shawmut Avenue to Albany Street. Boston’s South End was once marked by neglected brick and beam warehouses, previously the 19th century homes of piano manufacturers, canned good businesses, shoes and other merchandise.
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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
WELCOME TO SUMMER IN BOSTON. Warm
Now redeveloped, these factory buildings
weather in this coastal city signals the start of
have become the mainstays of a blossoming
ball games at Fenway, the iconic Swan Boats
retail and arts neighborhood.
in the Public Garden, and the opportunity to
“SoWa is an incredible community of
stroll the streets of one the best art districts
Boston’s best local artists, designers, con-
in the country.
temporary galleries, and small business
owners. When you visit SoWa, you can engage directly with artisan makers and fine art galleries in one location – the access to such a variety of talent makes it a unique arts destination,” said Aida Villarreal, SoWa’s Director of Art and Events. “We have an exciting lineup of events this season, including our monthly art crawl, SoWa First Friday, the weekly SoWa Open Market and Beer Barn. And new this year is an artisan workshop series led by SoWa Open Market vendors,” said Villarreal. “We also have some incredible new artists who have joined us in the studio building, like Mia Cross, whose portraits have made a big splash in the art scene here.” So, let’s talk about the art. Every month SoWa galleries and artist studios open their doors to present their 30 day exhibitions. Work is featured by estab-
celebrates local artisans, farmers, brewers,
lished and emerging artists, photographers,
foodies, and musicians. The SoWa Open
and sculptors. The SoWa Artists Guild helps
Market is family friendly, pet friendly, and free.
promote working artists and is the center
You can check out their event calendar at
point of the art district.
sowaboston.com for weekly happenings such as yoga practices, DIY salt scrub and
One of the guild’s main initiatives is First Friday which gives visitors a way to experience
floral workshops, and painting programs.
working studios, meet artists and gallery
If award-winning dining is more your style
owners, and offers a more personal avenue to
there are plenty of restaurants and cafes that
art. SoWa’s First Friday takes place at 450-460
will fit that bill. Boston Chops, Cuppacoffee, Cinquecento, and Gaslight Brasserie are just
Harrison Avenue from 5pm until 9pm on the
steps away.
first Friday of every month. Harrison Avenue
Vintage Market - open every Sunday year
is home to 15 galleries and over 70 artist
round from 10am to 4pm, rain or shine. The
Boston’s first ever Beer Barn and Taproom
studios all open for an evening of inspiration
Vintage Market is located inside the former
is housed in SoWa’s Power Station built in
and culture. Top notch galleries include Ars
brick warehouse at 450 Harrison Avenue
1869 as the Central Power Station for the
Libri, Boston Sculptors Gallery, Galatea Fine
where you will find a rotating roster of
West End Street Railway Company. The
Art, Kingston Gallery, Lanoue Gallery, and the
vendors offering curated collections of art,
Gothic Revival building was the world’s larg-
newly established Beacon Gallery.
fashion, objects, and furnishings.
est electrical power station at the time and
“The art community of Boston is amazing
All that walking and gallery-hopping
today serves as not only the coolest taproom
and I have to say, going to openings, and
works up an appetite and there is no short-
around but as an event venue for the SoWa
First Fridays in SOWA is one of my favorite
age of food in SoWa. Let’s begin with SoWa’s
Winter Festival, Create Boston, Copenhagen
things to do. It is very inspiring and I am very
Open Market.
Beer Festival and a variety craft shows, well-
thankful for the opportunities that working
Every Sunday from May to October over
in the Boston area provides,” said artist
175 vendors provide samples of delectable
The SoWa Art + Design District is dedi-
Betsy Silverman.
ness events, and live music.
produce, speciality foods, outdoor break-
cated to providing lifestyle experiences for its
For those looking for something col-
fasts, hard ciders, and locally brewed beer.
visitors and a venue for creative minds. Come
lectible and vintage, there is also the SoWa
Now in its 15th season this farmer’s market
for the day or even stay the weekend. CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE
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PHILANTHROPY
Tuesday’s Children Mentors Make a Difference A Productive and Positive Force in the Life of a Child Impacted by Loss. Written by Molly Lieberman, LMSW, Tuesday’s Children Junior Board and Military Mentoring Advisory Board Member
AFTER AN ACT OF TERRORISM, or when a family loses someone in
The organization uses a long-term-healing model to assist children,
the military, the surviving family members often receive a considerable
parents and communities in their efforts to move forward in the
amount of assistance for their immediate needs. While this is certainly
post-loss journey. These services include trauma and grief support,
important, of equal priority is long-term support. These families have
mental health programs, skills building workshops, career resources,
needs and obstacles, a year, two years and many years later that
youth leadership development, community and family events, health
need to be addressed. Long-term support focuses on the needs that
and wellness programs, adult and family initiatives and volunteerism
arise after traumatic loss becomes a reality and when the focus shifts
opportunities. These programs were developed in an effort to help
from grief to resilience and moving forward. This is where Tuesday’s
those who were affected by traumatic loss reach their full potential
Children comes in.
and move forward with their lives.
Tuesday’s Children was founded to address these long-term needs
One of the cornerstones of Tuesday’s Children is mentoring the
and is the leading nonprofit providing resilience-based support to
children of families who have suffered a loss and providing them with
communities and people impacted by terrorism and traumatic loss.
an adult role model who is in their corner. A mentor is not a parent
Mentor Mentee Rock Climbing
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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
West Point Mentoring Program Team Building Day
Mentor Mentees Scavenger Hunt
but rather a good listener with whom the child can share some of their challenges as well as celebrate their triumphs. The mentor can help their mentee set realistic and attainable goals and model successful behaviors as well as being someone with whom to have fun. A solo, often grieving parent can’t always take on all those roles. A mentor is never a tutor, parent or therapist; they are an adult who is there to support the child and be a productive and positive force in the child’s life. At Tuesday’s Children, mentors are asked to commit to a minimum of one year and meet with their mentee at least twice a month for a
circumstances of the loss, these families still need support and the children still benefit from mentors.”
few hours at time. If a child wants a mentor, they are matched with an
Currently, the mentoring program is primarily serving families in
adult of the same gender and volunteers are rigorously screened and
the Northeast, but the need for services is nationwide. Many military
trained. Mentors understand these children have experienced a trau-
families’ lives are in flux and they do not live in one location for an
matic loss and that they must be a regular presence in their mentee’s
extended period of time. Perhaps the surviving parent is still actively
life and someone whom the child can count on. Mentors build long-
deployed, or they currently live on a base but will be relocating.
term relationships with the children and watch them graduate high
Those who serve in the military may not have the means to live in a
school, go to college and reach other milestones in their lives. “To
larger city where the volunteer network already exists and finding
empower a dedicated adult role model to do nothing more than show
a consistent face-to-face mentor for a child can be challenging.
up twice a month for three or four hours at a time is a tremendous gift
E-mentoring through a secure platform and with the same rigorous
not only for the child but also for the volunteer, and it’s a weight lifted
screening and support standards may present a solution and is
off the shoulders of the solo parent,” said Sara Wingerath-Schlanger,
something Tuesday’s Children plans to pursue in the near future.
senior director of mentoring at Tuesday’s Children.
Tuesday’s Children is also looking for effective ways to bring
Oftentimes mentors have experienced a loss as well and facilitate
programs to areas where there is a large saturation of families of the
their own healing by giving back and helping a child who is struggling
fallen. The organization is planning to open a facility in Fayetteville,
to make sense of what happened to their parent. “Grief is its own
North Carolina, in partnership with the Fort Bragg community. Within
language and there is an unspoken understanding that presents
the next five years, Tuesday’s Children plans to open other facilities
itself,” said Wingerath-Schlanger.
in California and Texas.
While the mentoring program was originally designed for the
“Being a mentor is a chance to make a profound difference in the
children of the victims of 9/11, the program quickly expanded out
life of a child who is at a crossroad in their life,” said Wingerath–Sch-
of need to include all children who suffered a loss due to acts of
langer. “We have seen time and time again how mentors can point
terror. Recently, in part thanks to a grant from the NFL, the program
a child in the right direction and help them overcome obstacles and
expanded even further to include children in military families.”
go on to lead successful and happy lives.” ¨
“A Gold-Star Family is a family that has lost someone in the military who was killed in action or training, said Wingerath–Schlanger.
There are many children waiting for mentors and Tuesday’s
“We have expanded this definition to include families who have lost
Children welcomes support. For more information, please go to
someone in the military to suicide or accident. Regardless of the
www.TuesdaysChildren.org to see how you can help. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
21
PHILANTHROPY
NYC’s Hidden Homeless And The Healthcare Heroes that Serve them Everyday By Hannah Stein, Executive Director, The Floating Hospital Foundation Photographs by David Flores
The Floating Hospital (TFH) exists to fulfill the most basic and critical
of affordable living spaces. Many of the families are led by young
healthcare needs of thousands of families in New York City that live
women who have suffered from domestic violence, with the children
without homes, in shelters, domestic violence safe houses, and in
as witness, or worse.
temporary residency hotels. These families exist not on the fringes
This free healthcare is provided by a special group of people. The
of society, but within and among all of us—the children attend public
Floating Hospital provides medical, dental, and mental healthcare and
school and the parents work, yearn for their children’s health, safety
specialty services including cardiology, child psychiatry, podiatry and
and future, and dream of someday not being homeless.
health education to one-quarter of NYC’s family homeless population
Families, mainly women and children, represent the largest con-
every year at our Long Island City clinic and at a series of shelter-based
centration of New York City’s homeless population. Roughly 46,000
clinics throughout the city. This free healthcare is provided by a special
adults and children in families will sleep in city shelters tonight accord-
group of people. Shown here are just a few of the many dedicated
ing to New York City’s own calculations. Most people, however, largely
doctors, nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, educators, outreach workers
believe that homelessness is represented by what is seen—the single
and many others that make The Floating Hospital a special home, a
men and women on the street. The families in shelters, the hidden
safe space and a way to get healthy and stay healthy for all of our
homeless, are New York City’s greatest tragedy. They are priced out
families. These men and women are the heart of our work. ¨
Freddy Perez Health Educator “We are all very emotionally there. We are aware of what we need to do in serving our people. We know we are all in the same boat, together….I wake up every day thinking about what I can do to help people today.”
Shani Andre, MD Vice President and Chief Medical Officer “Families need a consistent source of primary care, and The Floating Hospital will follow them where ever they go. We provide transient families who are in homeless shelters or domestic violence shelters a source of constant care.”
Ivan Romero Director of Shelter Outreach “Every day brings new challenges and an opportunity to make a mother feel safe and to put a smile on a child’s face.”
Carol Jackson Trustee “I loved [The Floating Hospital] as a kid, and now I work hard for them as an adult. I know what it means to have good health services. I come from humble beginnings. But I am the woman who I am today thanks to them. I’m very proud to be affiliated with them and part of the Hospital.”
Sarajane Brittis, PHD Organizational Development Project Manager “Hearing the story of someone going through a rough time, just being there to listen gives them hope…This is still a place where you can walk in and see people hugging each other.”
In early June, The Floating Hospital hosted its 9th Annual Summer Soiree—a party that was more than just a party. We raised precious funds to provide free healthcare to homeless families. You can be part of this important cause by donating to: www.thefloatinghospital.org/9th-annual-summer-soiree-donation/ 22
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
We Win When You ShoW. Saratoga Springs : Health, History, Horses and a Tradition of Philanthropy Thank You for SupporTing
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up C iro’s
Join us July 19, 2018 www.cfdsny.org 518-944-2121
EARS
a Signature Event to Benefit
EVENTS + GATHERINGS
FCBUZZ
By David Green Director of Programs & Membership Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County
2018 Arts & Culture Empowerment (ACE) Awards THE CULTURAL ALLIANCE OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY (CAFC) was proud to present its third annual Arts & Culture Empowerment (ACE) Awards on Wednesday, June 6 at The Shore and Country Club in Norwalk to celebrate individuals, organizations, and businesses in Fairfield County for their significant contributions to the community through arts and culture, volunteerism or patronage. Tony Award-winning actor James Naughton served as master of ceremonies. Our keynote speaker was the noted business leader and philanthropist Robin Tauck.
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OUR 2018 CLASS OF ACE RECIPIENTS ARE ACE Award, Corporate: Valerie Cooper (1), founder of Picture That Art Consultants, Stamford-based practice of international fine art experts and appraisers, known for their culture of collaboration, commitment to strengthening the communities they serve, and their ability to create private/public partnerships with state, community and nonprofit stakeholders to produce projects of lasting value. ACE Award, Artist: Megan Bonneau McCool (2), a multi-talented artist who danced as an apprentice with the New York City Ballet and choreographed more than 30 commissioned ballets at area colleges. She teaches at local ballet schools, choreographs musicals for her town’s public schools, and volunteers with Stratford Academy’s Cultural Arts Program to bring enriching hands-on experiences and multi-cultural performances to the students. ACE Award, Nonprofit: New England Dance Theater (3), inspired to create awareness, access and appreciation of the arts through dance, reaches out to all Fairfield County residents, regardless of ability to pay. Community outreach efforts include educational programming and dance performances at schools, hospitals, and senior care facilities, as well as the annual
Nutcracker Benefit Show for guests from local family and youth service organizations.
friendships, all of which has enhanced the cultural experience in Fairfield County.
ACE Award, Educator: Jim Royle (4), who teaches percussion at his Bridgeport Drums & Percussion Studio to students of all ages and levels. While Jim enjoys his own performance career, his love of music and the pleasure of passing this love onto future musicians are his passion. His studio is well known for turning out remarkable performers who are skilled in many aspects of percussion, advancing from Drum to World, Latin, Afro-Cuban, Orchestra, Steel Drums, Timpani, and Mallet studies.
6. CAFC also presented a special President’s Award to the family of Burt Chernow (6) in recognition of the powerful impact he made on Fairfield County’s arts and culture community. A renowned art historian, writer and teacher, Burt was also the founder and director emeritus of the Housatonic Museum of Art and was instrumental in helping to build its collection by soliciting artists, collectors and friends for donations to the museum, which now houses more than 4,500 artworks.
ACE Award, Citizen: Dennis Bradbury (5), founder and curator of 22 Haviland Street Gallery in South Norwalk. A successful photographer and active promoter of Norwalk and area artists, she strives to bring people together through art; encouraging understanding, inclusiveness, professional collaboration and
We are grateful to our sponsors of this event: Cohen & Wolf, Hobbs, Inc., United Capital Financial Life Management, Bank of America, studio2pt0, LLC, Purdue Pharma, Moffly Media, and our award sponsors Spinnaker Real Estate Partners, Gary Cosgrave, SpreadMusicNow, and Lance and Terry Lundberg.
Looking for something different to do? FCBuzz.org is the place to find out what’s happening in Fairfield County any day of the week–featuring theater, exhibits, music, history, science, family fun, classes and local artists. Click on FCBuzz.org. Pick a great event to attend. Then Go–bring your family, meet your friends or fly solo. FCBuzz.org™ is presented by the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County. For more information contact the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County by emailing info@CulturalAllianceFC.org, calling 203-256-2329, or visiting the website at www.CulturalAllianceFC.org.
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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
E+ G:
Art in Design
Section of installation by Susie Earls
PERFECT PARTNERS
Lynn Hamlen, Nancy McTague-Stock, Roger Mudre, Tracey Thomas, Lori Glavin
Krista Fox
Art in Design Writen by Nancy Helle Photography by Mike Lauterborn
Wow! It was a superb marriage. “Perfect Partners: Art in Design” was a dynamic exhibition at Silvermine Galleries of New Canaan, Connecticut in April and May, presenting installations by five prominent Fairfield County interior designers who created stunning environments featuring a great variety of artwork by Silvermine artists. The busy opening weekend included a patrons preview party on Saturday night, followed by a public reception Sunday afternoon where PPG color expert Pamma Williams discussed the role of color. Delectables were supplied by Albert of A&S of Westport, beverages by Asylum Distillery, Roederer Estate Rose, Tuck Beckstoffer Seventy Five Wine Company and Kindred Spirits. The designers, all of whom believe that art is an integral part of a well-designed room, were given free reign to indulge their imagination and creativity, choosing works of art from the collection of over three hundred artists members of Silvermine – including painters, sculptors, weavers and mixed media artists. Several of the invited designers actually started with the selection of paintings or sculpture which inspired their overall design themes and colors for furnishings and decorative accessories. The participating design firms were Susie Earls Designs of Southport, Krista Fox Interiors of New Canaan,
Nancy Helle, Nancy McTagueStock, Tracey Thomas
Cheri Greene Interiors of Westport and Interiors by Anna Maria, based in Stamford. Owner Anna Maria Kinberg collaborated with Danise Talbot of Danise Talbot Design of Westport in creating an installation. The exhibition was conceived and organized by Nancy McTague-Stock, an award winning Silvermine artist and former board member of the Arts Center, who grew up appreciating the fine relationship between art and design through her mother, an interior designer. The physical marriage of fine art and fine design at Silvermine was carefully executed by Gallery Director Roger Mudre. Special related events included lectures; “Trends in Design”, how the past affects the present, by Matthew Sturtevant, an arts and antiques appraiser, auction expert and Decorative Arts editor of VENÜ, who formerly headed Christie’s New York 18th and 19th Century Antiques department for 15 years. “The Art of Collecting and Curating Personal Collections” was discussed by Benjamin Otiz, former Curator for the Discovery, Barnum and Housatonic Museums, and owner of Bozarte, Art of the Americas in Ridgefield, CT.
Danise Talbot, Anna Maria Kinberg
Heidi Lewis Coleman
Jennifer Reiley
Alison Meloy, Cherie Greene
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EVENTS + GATHERINGS
By Janet Langsam CEO, ArtsWestchester
What’s Now and What’s New in the Hudson Valley Art Scene THE WORD IS OUT. ArtsWestchester is having a Triennial. What’s a Triennial? Well, it’s not a three-legged bicycle. It is a once every-threeyears arts happening, showcasing the vanguard of the Hudson Valley artists, offering a snapshot of what’s now, what’s new and what’s next in contemporary visual art. For the inaugural exhibition, museum curators, gallerists, collectors, and independent arts professionals nominated more than 90 artists from Westchester, Rockland, Ulster, Rensselaer, Putnam, Orange, Greene, Dutchess, Columbia, and Albany counties for inclusion in the exhibition. Guest curators Marc Straus of Marc Straus Gallery and Paola Morsiani of the Brodsky Center at Rutgers University whittled the pool to 15 artist finalists who represent six counties.
“Facing History #15” is a photo-collage by Gary Burnley
“El Dorado,” a terracotta and gold luster work by artist Natalia Arbelaez.
“The newly created ArtsWestchester Triennial provides a unique occasion for coming together to discover the rich variety of backgrounds and ideas that inform processes, projects, and artworks by up-and-coming and established artists,” says Curator Paola Morsiani. Indeed, the ArtsWestchester Triennial is a coming together of diverse artists who employ a variety of media to mine a range of inspirations. The Hudson River Valley has long been a muse to artists, and still today many artists in the region look to the natural environment as their source of inspiration. For example, experiential
artist Michael Barraco’s “Bird Songs: An Archive of Love and Loss,” translates the collisions between man and nature into an approachable yet serious interactive installation. The work takes the form of a jukebox, inviting viewers to queue-up a famous song about birds, like “Edge of Seventeen” by Fleetwood Mac, or “Free Bird” by Lynard Skynard.
Several artists tackle more personal topics in their work. Brewster-based ceramic sculptor Natalia Arbelaez considers her own identity as a Colombian-American while exploring the history and culture of Latin American and Ameridinian people. The figural pieces like “El Dorado” and “30 Days at Sea” reference colonization, cultural inheritance, memory, and immigration. Gary Burnley’s collages interlace traditional and historical portraits with pictures of African Americans from aschool yearbooks and/or family albums. The works challenge traditional modes of portraiture, raising questions about how images shape attitudes about race in America. This year’s inaugural Triennial coincides with the celebration of ArtsWestchester’s 20th year in its historic downtown White Plains building. The once-every-three-years art event will become a mainstay of ArtsWestchester’s exhibition programming.
Michael Barraco’s “Bird Songs: An Archive of Love and Loss”
Don’t miss The ArtsWestchester Triennial on view now through July 28, 2018 in ArtsWestchester’s Gallery at 31 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY. artsw.org for more information.
For more arts, visit artsw.org The complete guide to the arts in Westchester /ArtsWestchester | @ArtsWestchester For more of Janet Langsam’s cultural musings, be sure to visit her blog at www.ThisandThatbyJL.com. For a full calendar of arts events visit: www.artsw.org. 26
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EVENTS + GATHERINGS
Co- Producer Tony Fusco, Aryanour Djalali of DNA Barcelona Architects, and 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Maurice N. Finegold, FAIA. Image Courtesy of Tara Carvalho
Jack Donahue and Duncan Hughes at the Duncan Hughes for Dowel launch at Lanoue Gallery. Image Courtesy of Matt Tetrault
Board members of the National Kitchen and Bath – New England Chapter at European Granite + Marble, Bronze Sponsors of Boston Design Week. Image Courtesy of Elaine Richardson
Jim Foscaldo; F.H. Perry Builders, Allison Iantosca; F.H. Perry Builders, and Chris Magliozzi; FBN Construction. Image Courtesy of Tara Carvalho
Beyond Walls 2018 Kick-Off Fundraiser in Lynn. Image Courtesy of Tara Cleary
Tracy Mowschenson; Tracy Interiors, Amanda Lombardo, Julia Kennedy; Eric Haydel Design, Caroline Portrello; Tracy Interiors, Bridget Desroches; Interior Design by Bridget, Maria Kennedy; Eric Haydel Design. Image Courtesy of Tara Carvalho
Peter Schultz dives into the revolutionary design of the 1960s at “The Summer of ‘66” hosted by Lekker Home. Image Courtesy of Lara Kimmerer
Guests at PUMP; a 50’s inspired vintage show hosted by the Blochaus Gallery and fueled by 36creative. Image Courtesy of Emma Fairweather
International Poster Gallery hosted a talk on collecting for beginners as part of the SoWa Art + Design District First Friday Stroll. Image Courtesy of Tara Cleary
BOSTON DESIGN WEEK CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL 5TH YEAR The 12-day citywide festival, Boston Design Week, returned for its fifth year April 4 – 15, 2018 and was a resounding success. 71 participants offered 70+ events throughout the course of the festival, with many of them selling out, and more than 15,000 people in attendance. Non-profit partners, technology designers, design showrooms, interior designers, urban planners, family organizations, museums, and the City of Boston itself put on events. Mayor Martin J. Walsh designated April 4 – 15, 2018 as “Boston Design Week” with a mayoral proclamation. Next year’s sixth Annual Festival will take place March 27 – April 7, 2019. The 11th Anniversary AD20/21 Show, now newly named AD20/21 HOME + The Boston Print Fair served as the culminating event of Boston Design Week. The Gala Preview on Thursday April 12th celebrated Boston Design Week and benefited the American Society of Interior Designers New England Chapter (ASIDNE) Scholarship Fund. 400+ partners, sponsors, patrons, and guests were in attendance. The 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to noted architect and Senior Principal of Finegold Alexander Architects, Maurice N. Finegold, FAIA. Forty exhibitors offered a fine selection of furnishings, fine art and prints, custom design, and home décor. The final programs of Boston Design Week were held at the show, including a special demonstration and book signing from award-winning artist and fashion illustrator Cathy Graham, whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, and New York Magazine, and international guest Aryanour Djalali, CEO of DNA Barcelona Architects. AD20/21 HOME + The Boston Print Fair returns April 4 – 7, 2019. Media Sponsor: Venü Magazine CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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EVENTS + GATHERINGS
Nicole Mills and Justice Powell, TOST Brand Ambassadors
Ciarra Frattasio Fragrance Ambassador, and Sue Phillips, founder of Scenterprises
Alberto Milani, Kathryn Minckler, Shelley Tretter Lynch
GREENWICH POLO CLUB The Luxury Marketing Council of ConnecticutHudson Valley Celebrates its 5th Anniversary On Sunday, June 10th, more than 300 guests came out to celebrate The Luxury Marketing Council of Connecticut-Hudson Valley’s “Fourth Annual Polo Family Day” in honor of its anniversary, a milestone that marked the organization’s fifth year as the authoritative voice of modern luxury in Connecticut/Hudson Valley and the surrounding metropolitan area. “Working again in collaboration with the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce and with the help of wonderful partners and sponsors, this event keeps growing as we celebrate the important luxury of time with family and friends,” explained Kathryn Minckler, Founder & Chair, The Luxury Marketing Council of Connecticut-Hudson Valley. Sponsors for the event: Alberto Milani, Argenio di Napoli, Apex Projects, Azimut Benetti, Ben Jerry’s, Bonita Gourmet, Ca’del Basco, Camel Life, Cometa, Empanadas on the Go, Festivities Events, Frank C. Rogers III, Happiness Is, Homestead Inn-Thomas Henkleman, Jade Marketing Solutions, Janet Gordon Style, Industrial Coverage, Isabella Garrucho Fine Art, Katie Fong, Marc Cain, Nicholson Events, Orrick & Company, Realm, Renovation Angel, Sara Doto, Sergio Rossi, Shelly Tretter Lynch, Sotheby’s, The Modern Barn, Plum Builders, Oyster Bar and Fish House, Saltaire, Scenterprises, Tost, Troy Nurseries, Valor Spirits, Wadia Associates.
Debra, Luke, and Craig Lomma
Contributors: Ilana Buccieri, Ortensia Blu Italian Adventures, Photography by Lisa Garcia, SISLEY-Paris Charity Partners: International Camel Rescue, Kids In Crisis, Pass On The Love Media Partners: Connecticut Cottages and Gardens, The CEO Forum Group, Venü Photography by: Mike Lauterborn
Enid Hatton and Roger Van Voorhees from Bonita Gourmet Guest, with Mark di Matteo & Casey Mckee from MarineMax
Tracey Thomas and Deb Menich Photo by Nicholson Events
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CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Janet Gordon Style (Janet Gordon)
EVENTS + GATHERINGS
Coke Anne Wilcox, Cathy Rasenberger, Jonathan and Jessika Auerbach
Suzanne Vaucher, Shannon Wu
Andrew and Elinor Hoover, James and Melissa O’Shaughnessy
Vicki Kellogg, Ari Rifkin, Chris Kellogg, and Ronnie Josephson
Trine Sorensen, Artistic Directors Wu Han and David Finckel
Earl Weiner, Rita and Gus Hauser
MUSIC TO OUR EARS The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center held its annual Spring Gala on May 14, 2018 in Alice Tully Hall. The festive event honored outgoing Chamber Music Society Chairman of the Board, James P. O’Shaughnessy. The evening included cocktails, a concert performed by artists of the Chamber Music Society, and a post-concert dinner in the Alice Tully Hall lobby. The demand for CMS’s extraordinary programming and world-class performances has resulted in the ever-expanding presence of CMS outside of New York, both nationally and internationally. In addition to some 55 concerts in New York City, CMS presents more than 70 concerts a year throughout North America, Europe, Asia and South America. Upcoming this summer is a return engagement in June at the prestigious White Nights Festival in St. Petersburg, Russia, and an annual three-week residency at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, August 5-21. Additional touring plans for the 2018-2019 season include a debut concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles on December 9, where CMS will perform the complete Bach Brandenburg Concertos, and concerts at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota, Florida, on January 24, and The Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach, Florida, on February 13.
Sally Clement, Coke Anne, Jarvis Wilcox, Stephen Clement, and Edwin Williamson
Photography by Amelia Panico Sarah and Alec Machiels, David and Alatia Bach
Dr. Annette Rickel, and Dr. Kenneth Forde
John and Julie Lindsey
Fred and Ivy Kushner, Judy and Alan Kosloff, and Anne-Marie McDermott
Elinor Hoover, and Amanda Haynes-Dale
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SUSTAINABILITY
Clear Group International Clearly Sustainable Written by Cindy Clarke
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The luxury of making a difference began early for Joyce Clear. The daughter
Her dreams of the future, then and now, manifest with her
of a Naval commander whose love of sea, duty to country and respect
determination to make a difference through her work and keep
for both are an integral part of her own DNA, she grew up with the
her beloved oceans as life giving as they were meant to be. Her
wind at her back, the sea at her feet and her prospects for healthy
vision is inextricably entwined with the beliefs and bounty she was
living wide open as she spent summers yachting off Montauk, Long
weaned on, only on a global scale. She graduated from University
Island, with her family. The ocean was her playground, nature her
of Massachusetts at Amherst, and later studied at the University of
mentor. Her days were filled with the kind of National Geographic
Copenhagen in Denmark as well as The Art Institute. Her first job
moments she watched on TV every Sunday with her parents during
took her to Wall Street, then out into the world where her love of
rare moments indoors. As a child, she reveled in the wonder and
travel and design rekindled her passion for creative pursuits and
beauty of the oceans that have sustained life since the beginning of
conservation and ultimately launched the interconnected ventures
time. She still does.
she captains today.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
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1. Orange fiber 2. Natural vegetable dyed cloth 3. Mycelium mushrooms are now the makings of today’s sustainable leather 4. S/Y Mari Cha III 5. S/Y Mari Cha III Dining Area 6. Joyce Shipyard tour in Viareggio, Italy 7. Mycelium Mushroom Substitute for Leather Melani Lust Photography
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Melani Lust Photography
That’s where we caught up with her, curious about her quest for
“Everything we do is aimed at creating spaces that nourish the overall health of our clients and the world we live in...”
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Sustainable Luxury™, the signature trademark for the innovative lifestyle solutions she champions, and onboard with her alliance with the International Well Building Institute and their WELL Building Standard®, the world’s first evidence-based system that “places human health, well-being and performance at the center of design.” Joyce’s company, Clear Group International, specializes in full service interior design for land and sea, taking a holistic approach to incorporating innovation with sustainability at every level. Her firm’s priorities of building in wellness, sustainability and quality in every project are non-negotiable. She founded Ports of Cause, a CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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SUSTAINABILITY
501(C) (3) non-profit organization “to promote, inspire and accelerate sustainable, forward thinking solutions for the health of our oceans.” Through Ports of Cause, she dives deeper into the yachting world by integrating public outreach, educational initiatives and memberships with exclusive events, summits and think-tank forums focused on sustainable solutions, leadership and transference. Both of her ventures are uniquely dedicated to creating awareness and engendering a positive outcome for the interconnected health of our oceans and ourselves. “Everything we do is aimed at creating spaces that nourish the overall health of our clients and the world we live in,” Joyce explained.
“Our goal is to incorporate solutions-oriented, evidencebased, biomimicry-inspired design elements into our work to minimize the impact modern-day lifestyles have on our natural environment...”
“Our goal is to incorporate solutions-oriented, evidence-based, biomimicry-inspired design elements into our work to minimize the impact modern-day lifestyles have on our natural environment. Living is a luxury we shouldn’t take for granted,” she said, “and the disposable society we live in today is threatening the health and well-being of our planet as well as ourselves. She told us about sailing to uncharted, uninhabited islands well off the beaten path, and stepping off the boat onto beaches littered in plastic from across the world. That great garbage patch that’s swirling around in the Pacific Ocean? It’s reported to be three times the size of France, two to three times the size of Texas, with a core of plastic debris that boggles the mind as it strangles marine life and contaminates our food source. While plastic pollution is visible and trackable, other forms of toxicity commonly used in interiors of cars, boats, homes and offices, like chemical based paints, adhesives, flame retardants, finishes and more, are not. They are not only contaminating the resources we
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need to survive and thrive for the long term, they are eliminating them. What’s the solution? Sustainability. And what does that mean? Quality, abundance, health, timelessness, innovation, endurance, balance,
the 1950s, have also irreparably impacted lives for every furred, finned,
profitability, responsibility. Oddly enough, these characteristics align
feathered, two- and four-footed animal on Earth.
perfectly with the values that luxury brands stand for, mirroring the
“Even the manmade environments we live in are potentially toxic,
underlying goals of sustainability and social responsibility. Think about
from the materials used to build them to the surfaces these materials
those expensive Chanel bags that cost thousands but last lifetimes.
are treated with. Anything we breathe or touch goes into our bodies
Made of the finest materials and workmanship, they are legacy products
one way or another,” she said, adding that our skin is like a giant
that are designed as durable investment pieces that can be proudly
sponge that soaks up the good and the bad. “People need to be
passed from generation to generation without losing their usefulness.
aware of the dangers they are exposed to and the steps they can take
They preserve and protect resources, reduce waste and hold their value
to mitigate and prevent the damage.”
for the long-term. They are the epitome of product sustainability, an
Joyce and her team at Clear Group specialize in offering their
end goal that we should strive for as well. You won’t find a Chanel bag
clients’ best quality, best practice design solutions for their living spaces,
floating out with the trash in our oceans, she said, summing it up with
whether for a custom multi-million-dollar yacht build, luxury hospitality
her mantra, “Sustainability is the ultimate level of luxury.”
and commercial projects or high-end residences. “We are committed to
Changing behaviors is another. Fresh air, clean water, organic food
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incorporating healing and wellness into every space we create,” she says.
and natural materials, once abundantly and solely available, are now
Aboard the yachts she designs, builds and refits, you’ll find ocean-
considered the luxuries of life. The advent of cheaper single use plas-
friendly applications and technologies that include built in systems
tics, synthetic materials and chemically altered products, touted to be
for pollution control and operational efficiencies, from water use, air
life-changing when they were introduced to mainstream consumers in
filtration, energy generation and propulsion to emissions, acoustics and
CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Melani Lust Photography
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1. Natural vegetable dyed cloth 2. Mycelium mushrooms used as the new form of leather 3. M/Y TATS Yacht: non-toxic latex/wool sofas 4. M/Y TATS Yacht Custom Designed Organic Linen Bedding 5. Ocean Property, Westport, CT Organic Wool Custom Rug and Water Based Furniture Finishes
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is to find the best way to achieve sustainability goals without compromising the integrity of the project or the environment, no matter how difficult the task or how much resistance she faces doing it. “It’s about redefining sustainability -- about being a part of a new kind of economy that is driven by innovation and excellence because of the need to preserve the resources this planet provides in order to continue to enjoy the lifestyles we have become accustomed. With sustainability, the politics, the quality of life and economics all win out in the end. If you think of all the tangible as well as emotional costs associated with pollution, waste removal, chemical toxins, clean more. You’ll discover customized phase changing materials utilized for
up, health care, loss of natural resources and more, the figures and
maximized thermal management solutions; interior wall, chair, window
losses are staggering. By incorporating responsible eco-conscious
and furniture coverings, organically sourced and nature made, includ-
solutions into the way we live, work and play, we can turn the tides in
ing mushroom cap leather, bamboo and cork; zero VOC paints; high
our favor once again.
efficiency LED lighting intuitively controlled by movement; and surfaces which address contaminants with user-friendly, never toxic solutions.
Joyce has charted a course for change that starts at the top, aboard yachts, inside commercial and hospitality projects, and inside luxury
Residential and commercial properties receive the same thought-
homes, with people in a position to affect change. Through her design
ful technologies and materials use consideration in their homes so
work and her Ports of Cause outreach, she is inviting others to take a
that they too can benefit from methodologies that cater to their
leading role in protecting and preserving the oceans that provide us
health and wellbeing. They include systems that monitor the quality
with food, medicine, oxygen, protection, enjoyment and so much more.
of the air and water, provide comfort for body and the mind, align
“The yachting and luxury industries have amazing resources, brain
with circadian rhythms, reduce stress and noise levels, and employ
power and influence. By coming together as a unified industry - as
renewable energy sources for heating and cooling.
leaders in the sustainable revolution and Blue Economy - we can make
Whether on land or sea, domestically in the US or internationally in places like Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines where she is
a difference and care for the one thing that cares for us... our oceans.” As Joyce says, our lives depend on it. The time is now. ¨
opening new offices and overseeing new builds, Joyce thrives on developing and implementing all encompassing solutions people
For more information, visit www.portsofcause.net and www.
need to make their lives better and the planet healthier. Her mission
clearyachtinteriors.com CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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STYLE:
Guide
CLOSE SHAVE Vikings Blade’s all new adjustable safety razor model “The Crusader” was created for the experienced shaver. It’s complex head structure allows shavers to increase the baseplate gap giving them a closer, more aggressive shave. For more information on the release date visit www.VikingsBlade.com
STYLE & CLASS
Chic Showroom and Extravagant Buys this Summer
DIVE IN Give your body a boost from head to toe with Bath & Body Works® first-ever instantly hydrating body care collection with the advanced skincare ingredient hyaluronic acid. Water products are now available in stores nationwide and online bathandbodyworks.com
NOW HEAR THIS Just in time for summer entertaining, Rembrandt Laboratories has launched the Model V, a visually beautiful luxury home speaker system with superior audio quality. Buy yours today at www.rembrandtaudio.com
JUST IN TIME Add a touch of flair to your summer style with CASIO’s latest collection of G-SHOCK S Series women’s watches in soft pastel colors. Choose from light shades of pink, blue, and purple. Now available at major G-SHOCK retailers, including Macy’s, shopcasio.com, and the G-SHOCK Soho Store. 34
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
BOTTOMS UP Lila Wines, is serving up something bubbly this summer with its newest canned wine varietal: Lila Bubbly Rosé. This dry, sparkling rosé captures the essence of summer in a chic can that’s easy to tote to the park, pool, rooftop, beach, BBQ, and beyond. To purchase visit www.LilaWines.com
APPETITE
By Fred Bollaci
The Best of Bar Harbor and Maine’s Mid Coast
Sunrise in Bar Harbor
Lobster Benedict at Paddy’s Irish Pub in the West Street Hotel
WHEN MY FOODIE FRIEND SUGGESTED I COME EXPLORE MAINE last summer, I was intrigued. My friend’s tastes are similar to mine— we’ve enjoyed many great meals together over the years. When I heard things like locavore, James Beard finalist chefs, wineries, hiking and mountain climbing in a pristine national park, I quickly booked the trip and in mid-July, a beautiful time to visit, I headed to Bar Harbor to begin my adventure. My favorite destinations combine gorgeous scenery, incredible recreational opportunities, and great dining, with an emphasis on fresh and local. Overlooking Frenchman Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, steps from breathtakingly beautiful Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is all of these and more. A charming town perfect for walking around and exploring the many boutiques, restaurants, and picturesque waterfront is the crown jewel of Mount Desert Island along Maine’s northern coast. Bar Harbor is a dream destination for families and active adventure-seekers that also happen to enjoy great food. Visitors have a variety of activities
to choose from, including biking, fishing, kayaking, golf, and hiking in the National Park (climb, bike or drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain (1,530 feet), the tallest point within 20 miles of the eastern seaboard—also the first spot to see the sunrise during part of the year). In fact, the sun comes up around 5 a.m. in the early part of the summer—folks get up as early as 3 to head to the top of Cadillac to catch a sunrise. Acadia boasts 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads to drive or bike through the park, which welcomes some 3.3 million people each year. To explore from the water, take a cruise aboard the Margaret Todd, a four-masted schooner. Kids will enjoy the whale watching and puffin cruises. Don’t miss the chance to walk across the sandbar to Bar Island during low tide. Just be warned: the tides in Bar Harbor are extreme and people as well as cars have been stranded! For dining, enjoy upscale Cuban at Havana, a warm atmosphere at historic Black Friar Inn & Pub, amazing craft cocktails at convivial Cottage Street Pub, and the best lobster at Beal’s Lobster Pier in Southwest Harbor. Stay at The West Street Hotel (incredible
Sand Beach on the Atlantic Ocean, in Acadia National Park
a Mediterranean trattoria by New York chef and Maine native Sara Jenkins overlooking Rockport Harbor. In Rockland, visit Primo (farm to table Italian with a farm out back), Café Miranda, and Suzuki Sushi Bar, some of the most exquisite sushi I’ve ever seen! Two must visit wineries are Cellardoor in Lincolnville, and Breakwater Vineyards in Owl’s Head (try sparkling wine made from local grapes, as well as delicious Riesling). Portland, a great foodie city is an easy access point to explore the coast of Maine. If you are going to have one meal in Portland, head to Eventide Oyster Co. Their selection of oysters from local (and away) waters is unrivaled, and the presentation with choices of Grapefruit, Tabasco, Kim Chee, Pickled Red Onion, and Horseradish Ice is sensational!
Sunrise overlooking the golf course and Ocean at Samoset Resort
rooftop pool), the lovely Balance Rock Inn (also great for small plates overlooking the water), or Bar Harbor Inn (The Reading Room is the area’s most elegant restaurant). Next, I visited Maine’s Mid Coast. Enjoy gourmet dining and world-class accommodations at the Camden Harbour Inn and Natalie’s Restaurant (Relais & Chateaux). If you love golf, stay at Samoset Resort in Rockland, overlooking Penobscot Bay and the Ocean. For dining, visit Long Grain for gourmet Thai in Camden. In Rockport, try Nina June,
Zucchini Flowers at Nina June
Fred Bollaci’s first book, “The Restaurant Diet” (Mango Publishing) features recipes from 100 top restaurants nationwide, including Balance Rock Inn and Camden Harbour Inn, and is available for purchase nationwide and on Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com! www.fredbollacienterprises.com CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
35 35
APPETITE:
Fearless Chef
The Bohlsen Restaurant Group Striving for the Perfect Guest Experience One Dish at a Time By Fred Bollaci
Tellers GoldBar
Prime Huntington
ISLIP, LONG ISLAND-BASED BOHLSEN RESTAURANT GROUP is first
My introduction to the Bohlsen Restaurant
and foremost a family before it is a group of restaurants. Inheriting the
Group was with my dad, who was a physician
helm from previous generations, Michael and Kurt Bohlsen uphold the
(and the ultimate food connoisseur) who lived
family traditions of mixing the essential ingredients to any successful
in St. James, Long Island. One afternoon
restaurant enterprise: service, style, cuisine and a spirit of fun.
when I was visiting, he said, “I want to take
If you live in the New York area, odds are you’ve heard of and hopefully enjoyed dining at one of their restaurants—if you haven’t, you need to. The Bohlsen Restaurant Group owns nine of Long Island’s
36
you to Teller’s. You will love the steaks, and p LOBSTER MAC & CHEESE
the ambiance is second to none—it’s housed in an old bank building, and it’s in Islip, we
most well-known dining establishments, including Gold Coast har-
don’t have to drive into Nassau County or the
bor-front Prime – An American Kitchen and Bar in Huntington, New
City.” Tellers is not just a Chophouse, it’s an
York, with a second location across the Long Island Sound in Stamford,
institution. “The steakhouse you can take to
Connecticut—you are encouraged to dock and dine); Harbor Club
the bank,” Tellers delights visually with the
at Prime in Huntington; the vibrant H2O – Seafood & Sushi in Smith-
original Mosler Vault serving as the wine vault
town and East Islip; Monsoon – Asian Kitchen and Lounge in Babylon
plus an impressive dining room set inside sky-
Village; Tellers – An American Chophouse, Verace – True Italian, and
high ceilings with 25-foot vertical windows.
Pizza Parm, all three in the heart of Islip.
Teller’s features progressive takes on the
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
q TORNADO ROLL wrapped in fried potato “tornado” spicy tuna, spicy mayo, eel sauce
lounge, complete with a fireplace and luxurious leather couches, or venture out to the fire pit. Exquisite water views beckon from the Wave Bar or while dining on the covered and seasonally enclosed porch are a perfect backdrop when sipping Prime’s extensive list of refined signature cocktails, a bottle of wine from the 1,000 label wine list or enjoying tastes of perfectly executed modern American cuisine. Prime offers an exceptional raw bar, world-class sushi and USDA Prime 21-day dry aged beef that can be paired with a variety of enhancements as well as both the classic steakhouse side dishes and some fantastic
H2O Smithtown
modern creations—all while watching the sunset over the bay. It is truly a spectacular setting that feels like a mini vacation! There is no skipping dessert either, with layered s’mores brownie. Out of the plethora of amazing meals I’ve been privileged to enjoy over the years, two that
Whenever possible, H2O sources local fish and supports local farmers through creative takes in the kitchen.”
stand out as among the more memorable and exceptional was with my late father at Teller’s in Islip, and Prime in Huntington. I’ve enjoyed many meals at H2O – Seafood & Sushi, which showcases seasonal seafood, served with passion and conceived with creativity. The sea dictates what’s on the menu at H2O. Whenever possible, H2O sources local fish and supports local farmers through creative takes in the kitchen. Grab a seat at the expansive gray marble bar while tasting fresh sushi or modern American seafood classics. The sprawling
classics, but lets the traditional Chophouse
menu not only features treats from the ocean, but also satisfies land
fare take center stage, with USDA PRIME,
lovers with dishes like our flat iron steak with Sriracha butter and onion
21-day dry aged beef as the cornerstone.
rings or our pan-roasted chicken with cornbread stuffing. Shareable
The Gold Bar pays homage to classic bars
desserts like the donuts with coffee pot du crème make indulging
of years past. Enjoy lunch in Tellers’ dining
almost impossible to avoid. Cleverly designed with an upscale New
room, the cozy fireplace lounge or at the
England feel, you’ll feel right at home in this warm and inviting space.
bustling bar. My next experience (with my
Weekly specials provide opportunities to taste the eclectic menu, from
dad) was at Prime in Huntington. Our friends
Lobster Monday to Surf & Turf Sunday. Wednesday Night Wine Dinners
had a boat and we enjoyed a breezy after-
showcase curated pairings of wine carefully selected to enhance each
noon on Long Island Sound, headed past
course. H2O was recently voted #1 Overall Seafood Restaurant in the
Oyster Bay and Cold Spring Harbor to dock
New York Area on OpenTable.
the boat and enjoy one of Long Island’s most exceptional dining experiences.
Verace
Designed to reflect the look of a classic boathouse along the Charles River in Boston, Prime’s multi-level visual expanse is just the beginning of this destination experience. Whether you arrive by boat or car, prepare to be wowed! Dedicated to the expression
q ROASTED OCTOPUS PANZANELLA arugula, croutons, chilies, red onion, dill vinaigrette
of modern American cuisine, Prime is the flagship of the Bohlsen Restaurant Group. A custom designed glass wall in the center of the main dining room is an artistic balance to the shimmering Huntington Harbor just outside. Spend an afternoon in the comfy wood CONTEMPORARYCULTURE/ CULTURE/ /MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY /MAGAZINE
37 37
APPETITE:
Fearless Chef
Michael Bohlsen: In His Prime by Cindy Clarke
A fusion of classic Italian cuisine with modern sensibilities, Islip’s Verace effortlessly combines fresh local ingredients into new interpretations of traditional Italian dishes.
A fusion of classic Italian cuisine with modern sensibilities, Islip’s Verace effortlessly combines fresh local ingredients into new interpretations of traditional Italian dishes. The intimate setting pivots around an exposed Woodstone oven, creating an Old World sense of warmth. Dine outdoors in the cobblestone marketplace-style space with a relaxing water pool and hanging,
WHEN THE OWNER IS IN THE HOUSE, it’s pretty much guaranteed that
glimmering lights. Start with a selection of
the staff will step up to the plate with every intention of hitting a home
meats and cheeses, sliced on our century-old
run. But when Venü sat down to dinner with the delightfully down to earth
Berkel slicer or a flatbread pizza straight from
Michael Bohlsen at his restaurant Prime – An American Kitchen and Bar in
the Woodstone oven. Delight in house-made
Stamford recently, they hit it out of the park.
pastas, hand selected 21-day dry aged USDA
That’s what they strive for every night, Michael told us, explaining that
Certified Black Angus NY Tuscan-style strip
for everyone he works with, it’s all about serving up the perfect guest
steak or classic chicken parmigiana as your
experience, soup to nuts – or in Prime’s case, sushi to steaks and then
entrée. Select one of ten wines by the glass or
some. That’s what makes their restaurants so delectably different. They’re
by the carafe from sustainable wine barrels.
family-owned, customer focused and uniquely dedicated to their craft
Verace proudly employs a technologically
across the board. And Michael truly is at home there, welcoming his
advanced barrel system in an effort to reduce
customers with the warmth and hospitality you would extend to guests
environmental impact by eliminating the
at your party. Which is how he feels when people choose to spend their
waste of bottles and corks.
nights out at his family’s restaurants. It’s an honor and a responsibility he
Which takes us now to their newest
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takes to heart.
restaurant, Prime – An American Kitchen and
Growing up in the waterside town of East Islip, New York, he and his
Bar in Stamford, Connecticut. Venü’s Tracey
brother Kurt cut their teeth in the business as boys. His grandparents were
Thomas and Cindy Clarke checked out the
restaurateurs, as are his parents who amassed some 50 Arby’s restaurants
view and the fare recently while dining with
across Long Island before they sold them and opened up their first casual
owner Michael Bohlsen; see what they saw,
eatery, Beachside Café, in 1983. Their foray into fine dining debuted with
sipped, sampled and savored below! ¨
Tellers in 1999 and hasn’t ended yet. He told us that the family is always
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
wrapped in avocado slices and tempura crunch, Stamford Landing consisting of shrimp tempura, avocado, topped with spicy tuna, mayo and eel sauce, and their signature Miso Brûlée roll (lobster, avocado, yellowtail, togarashi, and miso brûlée.) Sheepishly, we looked across the table at Michael. A true pro, and obviously familiar with patrons who can’t resist indulging, he gently said that dining out is not the time to deny yourselves from enjoying the food, adding that if you must skimp on something, skip the cocktails and wine. Ahh, that’s not so easy here either. With more than 750 wine labels in an illuminated glass cellar and a rapturous pairing of wine with each course, prosecco and pinot noir for us, we were hopelessly lost in a kind of gourmet/wine connoisseur fog that took over any semblance of restraint. We finished the evening with entrees of our choosing – the Scottish salmon, wild caught and citrus glazed, was a reverie of healthy eating and happiness for me, Market Fish of the Day for Tracey, and the Delmonico steak Michael ordered was a steakhouse classic with scene-stealing sides – and didn’t even try to feign fullness when the desserts came. After all, who can turn down housemade cheesecake, mini lemon tarts and a warm brownie s’mores sundae that will make you want more! Michael and his family sure know how to host a dinner party where the guests don’t want to leave. 1. Stamford Prime Dinning Room 2. Porterhouse for 2 (40 oz) 3. Michael and Kurt Bohlsen 4. Steak with the bone: Tellers ribeye (40 oz)
We can’t wait to come back to Stamford this summer, prime time when boats of all make and model will make their way across Long Island Sound from one ideally located Prime restaurant to its mirrored twin on the waterfront in Huntington! Bon voyage and bon appetit! Opened in the summer of 2016 Prime – An American Kitchen and
on hand to make sure everything is running smoothly in each of their
Bar is located at 78 Southfield Avenue in Stamford, Connecticut,
nine restaurants but they’re hands off when it comes to the expertise
overlooking the docks and mouth of the Rippowam River as it flows
of their chefs, gems all. Like Prime Stamford’s executive chef Julio
into the Long Island Sound. Its menu is both innovative and classic,
Genao, they know their way around the kitchen and it shows.
featuring seasonally sourced foods and prime dining fare, including
We sipped and sampled the chef’s selections with awed appreci-
a curated raw bar, world-class sushi and USDA Prime 21-day dry
ation and not a little drooling. Imagine, if you can, being wined and
aged beef paired with enhancements as well as classic steakhouse
dined in a window-walled dining room overlooking a yacht-graced
side dishes and fantastic modern creations.
harbor, moon romantically spotlighting the water from on high, while a flotilla of starters shamelessly flirts with your appetite, winning your heart with every bite. Resistance is futile here no matter what your well-intentioned diet may dictate. As we succumbed to the culinary charms in front of us, Michael joined in, clearly rating the quality, presentation, flavor and taste. His smile, quietly confident, hinted at his insistence for palate perfection. We coyly made some girly remarks about not always eating this much, adding that we didn’t want to miss the opportunity to at least sample what we were being served, but our delirium gave us away. After savoring our amuse bouche, a silver spoonful of duck prosciutto with kumquat, we dove into gnocchi clouds drizzled with white truffle sauce, caramelized figs and prosciutto with almonds and goat cheese, Green Lotus orbs of spicy tuna, lump crab, and Asian pear ingeniously CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE
39 39
APPETITE:
Cocktail Culture
A Chinese Mixologist takes on London Beefeater Gin Chinese Art in a Glass Written by Nona Footz
VENÜ: “How did you figure out you wanted to become a bartender and what was your Plan B in case that career didn’t work out?” PZ: I wanted to become a bartender largely because my father worked in the food and beverage industry in Europe for ten years and
EVER WONDER WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A GREAT BARTENDER? Many can still remember Tom
I would hear stories about its challenges and
Cruise in the movie Cocktail spinning the jiggers and glassware while schmoozing the crowd.
thrills while growing up as a boy. When he
However, like big hair, that method of bartending went out of style decades ago. Now it’s all
returned to China full time, I was still in high
about the “creative cocktail experience”.
school but I’d listened to his advice over the
While sitting down at Jing bar inside the Peninsula Hotel in Beijing after a day of sightseeing,
years and decided to take some formal bar-
my husband and I took in the exquisite, modern chic ambience, and marveled at all that China
tender training during college. My father will
had to offer in terms of food and drink. We enjoyed the first night’s aperitif so much we went
always be my idol. He always encouraged me
back the next night and had the opportunity to meet the mixologist who was creating and
to go out to work and seek different places
serving our refreshments, Mr. Paul Zhang.
to visit and study. I left my village of Tianjin
Paul is the recent regional winner of the 2017 Beefeater MIXLDN Global Bartender Compe-
to move to Beijing which was very close to
tition, the world’s largest gin contest where bartenders from 31 countries compete to create an
my hometown so it was an easy commute by
original cocktail using their city as inspiration. These bartenders design their cocktail to celebrate
train and I could go home on weekends. My
the urban diversity of the city in which they live and work, taking into consideration the culture,
previous job was in Macau, which was really
art, music, food and the people…then capturing this inspiration mix it with the spirit of London
far from my home village but I was also lucky
Beefeater Gin. Paul competed for his home country of China, that vast land of 1.4 billion people
in that I always had my parents’ support. If I
and 4,000 years of history, taking home a regional win.
hadn’t become a bartender, I guess I would
As it was late into the evening while we were enjoying his signature cocktail “8 Goldfish Lane” we learned more about this man and his art: 40
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
have become a good international tour guide. Places and people fascinate me.
VENÜ: “What characteristics are critical for
art, restaurants and renown chefs, interna-
Beijing. Forty years ago there were many
a bartender to be successful?”
tional guests…it’s all inspirational groundwork
teas stands on the streets of Beijing selling
PZ: I think that attitude is the most important
for how I think about my craft.
jasmine tea. People could pay 2 cents and
factor. I often say, “hire for attitude, train for
get a bowl of jasmine tea and it became a
skill”. It’s obvious that in the hospitality indus-
VENÜ: “How do you describe what a
key feature of our great city. The city still has
try attitude can make or break an experience
“creative drinking experience” is?”
many tea houses using the antique tea bowl
– both from the service provider’s perspective
PZ: I really like the word “experience”. If a
as decoration, So I decided to honor this
but also from the guest’s. But attitude tran-
guest comes to a bar for a drink, that’s not an
cultural tradition and use it as my inspiration
scends industries and I think it’s the number
experience, it’s just having a drink in the bar.
to create this cocktail. I make an organic
one thing that we can control. You can always
My guests come to my bar, ask for a glass
jasmine tea syrup from scratch, shake it with
train and learn more in order to improve a skill
of Hong Chan, or 8 Goldfish Lane, and the
Beefeater Gin, fresh lemon, grapefruit juice
but being truly successful, in my opinion, is all
event starts from there. There is the drink’s
and Chinese waxberry liqueur. Refreshing!
about attitude.
taste, the story as to its genesis and how I
As for the naming of my cocktails, when I
came to create it…all of these details make
was thinking about cocktail names one day
the art of drinking the cocktail an experience.
my sister Angel said, “Why don’t you use
I think this also speaks to the professionalism
your hotel address?” The Peninsula in Beijing
of bartenders. I believe it’s important that we
is located at 8 Goldfish Lane and ‘goldfish” is a famous and historic symbol and name in China - I knew immediately it was perfect. I like to name all of my cocktails – I enjoy coming up with creative and interesting ways
My guests come to my bar, ask for a glass of Hong Chan, or 8 Goldfish Lane, and the event starts from there.”
to give them a true identity. VENÜ: “We’ve heard that the Chinese have become the world’s biggest consumers of red wine but they have been slow to acquire a taste for other alcoholic beverages - do you see a difference in the variety of customers you serve who are from around the world? What type of people enjoy what type of cocktail most?” PZ: I have definitely found a difference in the variety of customers who are from around the
VENÜ: “You’ve worked at some of the
communicate with our guests. It’s not just a
world. The guests who travel frequently for
most exclusive hotels in the world - The
simple “Hey what can I bring you?”. Instead,
business will usually have their own prefer-
Ritz Carlton, The Peninsula - to what
we need to communicate with guests
ences; the ladies like champagne cocktails
degree does that level of luxury inspire
through a professional approach, attitude,
and the gentlemen like classic Martinis or
your creativity?”
attentiveness and knowledge to create a
Manhattan cocktails. Younger travelers like
PZ: I have to say those luxury properties were
memorable moment.
to try local specialty drinks such as Chinese
really what provided me with a good, solid
wine, Chinese cocktails, or some bartender
stage in which to do my very best work. I cre-
VENÜ: “How did you come up with the
ated many successful cocktails for domestic
cocktail 8 Goldfish Lane? Do you name all
and foreign guests in these luxury hotels, and
of your cocktails?”
VENÜ: “What do you drink when you’re not
I also met many tremendous friends over the
PZ: That particular one is from my 2017
on the job?”
years. I also participated in several bartending
Beefeater MIXLDN Global Bartender
PZ: Beer, gin & tonic, or whiskey on the
competitions on behalf of the hotels and sin-
Competition winning cocktail! I find that
rocks. I always scan the drink menus when
cerely appreciated all of their encouragement
Beijingers really like to drink jasmine tea.
I go out and see what piques my interest…
and support. Being around luxury interiors,
For years tea was truly the cultural drink of
I am always keen to try something new! ¨
signature cocktails.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
41
APPETITE:
Cocktail Culture
A Spirited Conversation Shakin’ and Stirrin’ Things Up In Norwalk, Connecticut Written by Linda Kavanagh
THERE’S NO DENYING THE VIBRANT FOOD AND DRINK SCENE found throughout Norwalk’s thriving urban core. A robust and diverse collection of social gathering places are filled with fearless restaurateurs, dynamic chefs, and a slick cocktail culture punctuated with savvy mix-masters. Social media has taken hold of the visual appeal of a cocktail, while enthusiasts continue to embrace the many flavor nuances, the history, and social aspect of a well-crafted drink.
42
BEACH HOUSE SONO
OUR HOUSE SONO
CASK REPUBLIC
EL SEGUNDO
THE SPREAD
Coconut Mojito
Frose
99 Problems
Amelia
L’s Mai Tai
Cream of coconut, Captain Morgan White Rum, Malibu Rum, fresh mint
Frozen rose wine, strawberries, vodka, cranberry juice, and triple sec
High West Campfire Bourbon, Aperol, Cocchi Vermouth, peach bitters
American vodka, St. Germain, lemon blackberry cordial, fresh mint
Light and dark rum, Orgeat, lime and fresh pineapple juice, fresh mint and orange slice
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Our House SoNo
“Really, what a cocktail should be is a
drinks just as much as when they are ordered
celebration of the spirit,” asserts Sean Nye,
on the rocks or straight up, a clear indication of how far the industry has come with their
the Beverage Director of The Spread and El Segundo, two clearly defined restaurant
for their popular L’s Mai Tai cocktail. The rich-
and bar establishments in historic South
ness and flavor distinctions between the two
“Although, these trends consist more in
Norwalk. Nye, whose years of experience
rums level each other out, while the added
the consumers’ mind than in the industry’s,
in the biz goes beyond a shaker and a fancy
fragrance of the Orgeat and the juicy tartness
“says Swartz, “Once someone finds that
garnish, uses his knowledge of the (best)
of the fruit bring this island punch to life. This
drink that they enjoy or the brand they prefer,
raw materials and their flavor profiles to
balancing act is incorporated throughout
they pretty much continue to drink the same
create the restaurants’ globally inspired
Nye’s drink menus, much like how a chef
thing for a long period of time, and often
cocktail programs.
creates, choosing components that make
the overrated (over-hyped) brands become
“In order for a truly “crafted” cocktail to
sense, paying attention to measurements,
underrated simply due to the over-saturation
work, and knowing full well that a decent
building entirely from scratch, and letting
of the name or its usage.”
spirit should be able to be drunk alone,
the main ingredient shine through.
marketing efforts.
Both Nye and Swartz contend that the
layering other ingredients within a cocktail
Global spirits consumption is projected
ultimate drink still remains a shot and a beer
without losing the integrity of the spirit is the
to hit 3.2 billion cases by 2020, a rise of 122
and contrary to popular belief, guys do not
ultimate goal.”
million nine-liter cases since 2014, according
shy away from pink drinks! “What’s old never
Nye illustrates these “layers” of flavor
to the International Wines and Spirits Record
went away, and what’s new is just another way
when combining both dark [Diplomatico]
and reported by Beverage Dynamics. And
in which to celebrate the spirit.”
and light top shelf rum with Orgeat, an
the number of new brands that continue to
Norwalk Now, a coastal community collec-
orange flower water and almond syrup,
flood the market show no signs of slowing
tive, takes you into the spirited world of the
along with fresh pineapple and lime juices
down. Kyle Swartz, Managing Editor of
area’s most notable cocktail destinations. ¨
Beverage Dynamics and Cheers Magazine says that preferred spirit brands are common among consumers when ordering mixed
EVARITO’S MEXICAN KITCHEN & BAR
PEACHES SOUTHERN PUB & JUKE JOINT
WASHINGTON PRIME
O’NEILL’S IRISH PUB
Amendolia
Mango Margarita
June Bug
Basil Smash
Jameson Irish Whiskey
Cucumber vodka, St. Germain, fresh lime, splash of grapefruit, cucumber slice
El Jimador Blanco Tequila, fresh mango purée, lime juice, Combier Liqueur D’Orange, agave syrup, chili-salt mango and lime garnish
Vodka, Peaches’ sweet tea, fresh peach purée, lemon, fresh peach
Gin, fresh ‘spanked’ basil, lemon juice, basil simple syrup
On the rocks
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
43
FEATURE
BOSTON’S BETSY SILVERMAN MAKES THE CUT BY LISA MIKULSKI
p Quincy Market, 36” x 48” |
q Paper Tube Paints, 36 x 36
CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE
45 45
FEATURE
WHAT DEFINES A SUCCESSFUL ARTIST?
manipulate paper to discover its strengths and how it could be used to define space. I built columns, floor pieces, and lattice roofs that played with paper’s translucent characteristics and the beautiful shadows it can cast.” The idea of working with recycled magazines as an art form came to Silverman not from just a design or aesthetic consideration, but also from an moral and environmental imperative. Creating her work provides us with something beautiful and also helps to reduce our environmental footprint. She has studied and practiced many forms of art throughout her life – drawing, painting, sculpture – but her connection to paper collage is what gives her joy, challenges her intellect, and fuses her artistic sensibility with her architectural background.
Is it the amount of sales she makes, the way her work resonates with gallery goers, or perhaps just being able to reap the satisfaction of creating work that is unique and innovative. If any, or all, of these elements describes artistic success then Betsy Silverman is enjoying quite a ride. Having first met up with Silverman back in 2017, I found the Massachusetts artist preparing for an exhibition at the Concord Center for the Visual Arts. This summer sees her enjoying an
“MY MASTER’S THESIS PROJECT INVOLVED FINDING WAYS TO FOLD AND MANIPULATE PAPER TO DISCOVER ITS STRENGTHS AND HOW IT COULD BE USED TO DEFINE SPACE.”
explosion of opportunities, some international attention, and a website displaying mostly sold art. What’s all the fuss? A closer look at Betsy Silverman’s work
The selection of paper she uses to build her cityscapes, as well
reveals more than what you think you see. This artist creates highly
as portraits, is based not only on elements of color and hue, but
detailed and vibrant scenes of Boston using only carefully curated
also for the individual text and paper quality which enables her
and cut pieces of paper. All from recycled magazines. Not a single
to create a multilayered visual story – local Boston publications
brush stoke of paint nor a hand drawn line exists here.
provide subject matter, art magazines provide quality paper,
It is an exercise in delight and wonderment to allow one’s
thickness, and bright color. Works done on commission are also
eye to explore the work and discover what lays in wait – baseball
personalized so that art for any client contains elements that are
players and peacocks become the branches of trees and Tom
special and unique to that individual or subject.
Brady’s jersey is now the reflection for a car window. Architec-
“I think about the history of the recycled paper source material
tural elements are spot on and provide a feeling of being a
and how it might fit conceptually with the image that I am creating.
participant in each scene. There are famous faces, subway maps,
Sometimes, this involves using text that literally conveys a message,
lobsters, penguins, contextual phrases and so much more. One
comment, or identification of the subject matter. Other times, an
only needs to look.
individual paper fragment might include an image that helps tell
Having earned a Master’s Degree in Architecture at the
the story of the whole work. I like to have fun with these elements,
Rhode Island School of Design, Silverman began working with
too. For example, I’ve done portraits of dogs that incorporate
paper and found it to be a versatile medium for representing
images of their favorite foods, like steak and chicken.”
structural concepts.
objects, or individuals which she then uses as reference. I imaged
create affordable, environmentally conscious designs for earth-
her studio to be piled high with boxes of cut paper but this is
quake victims using paper tubes,” said Silverman.
not the case. Silverman does not rummage through hundreds of
“My Master’s thesis project involved finding ways to fold and 46
Silverman begins her process by photographing street scenes,
“I was drawn to the efforts of the architect Shigeru Ban to
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
pre-selected scraps in order to process her work. She only begins
FEATURE
q Marathon Sheriff, 30” x 40”
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47 47
FEATURE
taking cuts from magazines in accordance with the theme of each
the feel of being painted on the window glass by having the “T”
piece. Everything on the canvas, from light and shadow, to the
overlap the wood of the window frame ... and also the wood that
creation of buildings, to the assemblage of cars and people are
is reflected in the glass is darker to enhance the illusion.”
completely customized. Some of the paper selections are so slight that she must use tweezers to apply them.
In the Chinatown piece, Silverman’s original photograph had a lot going on in the span of only a block or two. She loved the
While Silverman creates portraits, animal art, and still life, it is
opportunity to work with a lot of detail. Neon signs are created
her cityscapes which make up her bread and butter. She tells how
to show the proper reflective attributes and car windows provide
Boston provides an amazing backdrop for the work she does.
different reflections based on their positions.
“I love the history of Boston and I constantly delight in the
“I think that a lot of what I try to achieve in my work is to provide
juxtaposition and preservation of the old buildings against the
the viewer with another lens to view their surroundings or a subject
new. The sports teams are rich in tradition and success … and
because there is constant unfolding tension among the perspec-
some suffering. The seafood is amazing. And I also love that
tival realism, the physical paper cuttings, and the original magazine
Boston is a walkable city. I can go from the North End to Faneuil
texts, colors, and images. It’s my way of asking someone to stop,
Hall and on to the Public Garden to photograph for future
take in, and appreciate the space around them that people might
collages all in one day. As an artist, the city has a scale to it that
see every day but typically hurry past. Boston is such a fantastic,
allows me to capture different dimensions of visual and cultural
beautiful city with diverse and constantly changing views.”
experience in a single canvas.”
Silverman hopes to continue to explore new avenues for
Marathon Sheriff, a 30” x 40” canvas stands as a tribute to the
expression, and while her cityscapes have become a passion and
survivors of the Boston Marathon bombing on April 15, 2013.
a niche, she is also pursuing the creation of various forms of still
Exploring the detail of the image shows not only a beautiful work
life – especially ones that allow for distinct reflections of light.
of art, but the text she includes references the event and Boston’s
Paper Tube Paints, 36 x 36”, is an example.
emotions about it. Snippets such as “Empowering Athletes”
“Paper Tube Paints gave me a chance to take all the old paint tubes I have, and never use, throw them in a pile and recreate them using magazines. I loved the irony of representing paint tubes with a different medium, one that is completely unrelated,
“I THINK THAT A LOT OF WHAT I TRY TO ACHIEVE IN MY WORK IS TO PROVIDE THE VIEWER WITH ANOTHER LENS TO VIEW THEIR SURROUNDINGS...”
and infusing the tubes with all sorts of text about women artists, famous artists, New England artists, and words having to do with art and some of its history,” she said. “There was also the challenge of using paper to represent the way light is reflected on the tubes, creating metal tops and openings, turning text on its side to create the ridges in the caps and making something out of paper that looks like wet paint. As another experiment, this was the first work in which I
“The Beat” (referencing the police), “Come run with us” and
covered the piece with a layer of glossy resin to give it a more
“Love” add to the richness of the work. Attention to detail can
contemporary feel.”
also be noted here with the distortion of the runners legs and the
Betsy Silverman is thrilled with the evolution of her career and
face of the cop as seen through the windshield of the motorcycle.
is exhibiting at a number of galleries this season. She regularly
This type of detail is signature for Silverman.
shows at Gallery Blink, in Lexington MA, and has been selected
Other pieces such as Quincy Market and Chinatown – both 36”
for a two person exhibition at New England BioLabs running
x 48” canvas – are typical size dimensions for her cityscapes. She
from November 6 through December 18th, 2018. She recently
explains how she gives character to even the smallest figures and
completed three commissioned works - two for Tufts University
objects in each collage.
Medical School and the third for healthcare organization, Care
“In Quincy Market, the woman’s glasses are reflective at the top. Her breast is accentuated using highlighted pieces of paper
Dimensions. She is currently working on a large commissioned piece for a private home in London, England. ¨
found in the pattern that I used for the rest of her clothing,” she says. “The word ‘Tavern’ at the lower right of the piece is given 48
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
For more informaiton about her art visit: betsysilverman.com
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q Chinatown, 36” x 48”
CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE
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She not only captures the essence of dance in each of her bronze beauties – a ballerina’s intimate moments, her lyrical movements, her grace and her spirit – she gives them an imagined soul that makes them sing and takes your breath away in the process. We were personally introduced to them during a visit to Kelsey’s 300-year-old Connecticut farmhouse, doing triple duty as an open-air sculpture park, gallery and studio
DANCING TO PERFECTION WITH SCULPTOR STERETT-GITTINGS KELSEY Written by CINDY CLARKE
all in one. Inside, hundreds of tiny dancers, thoughtfully choreographed on counters and shelves, welcomed us with their loveliness and poise. These little figurines are the sculptor’s dollhouse children, handmade miniature ballerinas three inches in height just waiting to grow into life-sized sculptures at the tip of a hat and a commission.
She speaks in sculptures
Each is uniquely different and distinctive as they contemplate their next artistic movement, each a vision of technical ballet perfection. The artist, herself a student of the dance as a child growing up in Greenwich,
that pose, primp, plié and pirouette around
Connecticut, takes her cue from real-life
her Roxbury home as if having a troupe of
prima ballerinas, practicing the art of move-
bronze dancers live with you was the most
ment with them, their energized tendus,
natural experience in the world. To Sterett-
studying their landings and lofts, their legs,
Gittings Kelsey, they’re family, created from
the way their arms express their emotions,
lifelong memories, fashioned with love, and
their timing, even their tutus until she is on
immortalized for posterity and endless plea-
truly on pointe with her sculpted troupe. In
sure. And, according to Peter Hastings Falk,
real life as in Kelsey’s sculptures, the purer
one of the world’s leading fine art appraisers
the dancer’s technique, the more convincing
and art critics, authoritative author and
the airy, soulful illusion she portrays. And
publisher of Who Was Who in American Art,
while perfection for the performers is a
“No artist in history is more synonymous with
moving target, Sterett excels in perfecting
dance than Edgar Degas,” he wrote, saying
their moves for eternity.
“many of his paintings and pastels of dance
She explains that she has a lifelong
have rightfully achieved iconic status.” But
fascination with movement and body articu-
he theorizes after describing Kelsey’s exacting
lations that “has pursued me throughout my
artistry and ability to evoke the ballerina’s
career. It has chased me and I have tried to
gestalt, “If Degas is accepted as the undis-
catch it. Just as a photographer tries to catch
puted master painter of dance – specifically
his subject and hold it still, the sculptor takes
ballet – then the subject’s undisputed master
something that is standing still and tries to
sculptor is Sterett-Gittings Kelsey.”
make it move.” CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
51
FEATURE
ballet dancers during a birthday party at the Greenwich home of a world-class ballerina who explained the stories behind each of the dancers and showed the wide-eyed little girl her ballet studio which was filled with costumes she had worn in the many ballets she performed in. She took ballet lessons as a child with her twin sister, and later studied art at Rosemary Hall and sculpture with bronze casting at the Rhode Island School of Design, choreographing her first two loves into an art career that has spanned more than fifty years. “The education of an artist is a lifelong process,” she said as she explained that “art school gets the basics for you, life does the rest.” The TV is always on at her house, she admitted, “TV is the cheapest University anywhere. You can travel the world attendSince she first became hooked on bronze
among a sculptor’s most valuable work,
ing the greatest performances ever, music,
in 1962, she has created more than three
working as sales tools while inspiring their
opera, theater.”
hundred
investment-quality
audiences. From them, interested patrons
You can also videotape shows so you
sculptures. Many stand in high-profile
can envision how a larger version would look,
can view and review performances as often
placements around the world, from the
before commissioning the actual sculpture.
as you want, which is how she becomes
White House and the Hirshhorn Museum
As she showed us around her working
intimately familiar with the work of some of
and Sculpture Garden in Washington, DC to
gallery, Sterett pointed out the ballerinas
the world’s most acclaimed choreographers,
international museums, corporate headquar-
who have grown under her skilled hands,
including George Balanchine, the father of
ters, memorial gardens, a US Navy ship, and
each ranging in size from three inches to
American ballet and co-founder and artistic
schools. Others grace the private collections
fourteen feet in height, with varying heights
director of the New York City Ballet.
of families like the Trumps and Paul Newman.
in between. Each lends itself to a variety of
Watching dancers perform in films and
She started modeling her figurines in
sizes depending on where her clients want
TV performances continues to inspire her
to place them.
work and has resulted in some of her finest
original
wax and plasticine when her children were small, she said, because they were safe and
We looked at each diminutive dancer
easy to use around them. She remembers
closely, admiring the braided plaits in their
We saw several of them outside in her
seldom being without a ball of wax in her
hair, the innocent expressions on their faces,
garden, including Clara and her beloved
pocket. “This kept the sculptures fresh and
the delicately sculpted hands and feet, the
Nutcracker, based on Tchaikovsky’s Christmas
immediate. I could just pull out the wax and
accuracy of suggested movements, the
ballet and described by a professional bal-
churn out another piece,” she said, often
lifelike realism of little bronze dolls that defy
lerina as “perfect and poetic, with a perfect
storing the finished figures in the freezer,
their medium to capture the lightness and
alignment of structure that can be observed
“between the frozen meats and vegetables,”
joy that is the essence of ballet.
in every part of the body, details only a ballet
until she could have them cast in bronze. Once an original work is cast in bronze,
52 52
sculptures.
We asked her where her inspiration came
dancer can feel.”
from, amazed at the multitude of ballerinas
A life sized limited edition standing 58
sculptors can make editions from them or
and poses we saw here. She told us that
inches high, Clara, dressed in a cap sleeved
use them for enlargements and create new
she fell in love with ballet when she was
dress with a huge bow on the back, dances
editions in any size. These maquettes are
just seven, seeing a collection of porcelain
outside on the lawn of the sculptor’s studio,
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
FEATURE
not far from her Balanchine dancer Elise who celebrates the exquisite lines of classical ballet. Called by experts “as a masterpiece in every sense of the word, it was created according to the exacting body proportions demanded by famed Choreographer George Balanchine for his dancers in the New York City Ballet.” Elise started as a ten inch bronze sketch, growing up to a mid-sized twenty-one inch height, before reaching her prima ballerina status at five feet six inches tall.
“The education of an artist is a lifelong process... art school gets the basics for you, life does the rest.”
that flight and Sterett was outraged at the loss of life. “It brought home for the first time a true understanding and recognition of the debt we our military,” she said and she was moved to do something for the families who lost loved ones. “This terrible event inspired me to build a small angel in bronze for their memorial garden. I named the little angel Joy because I wanted to celebrate the lives of those lost, not their deaths.”
In the tradition of the ballerina who told
make other pieces at her clients’ requests.
In the spring of 2008, Joy brought more
stories about her porcelain collection to a
She embarked on a three-year commission for
joy to the lives of those intimately familiar with
young starry-eyed Sterett, Kelsey shared a
Royal Copenhagen of De mark to produce a
loss when she was commissioned to create
story about Elise with us, equally starry eyed
new series of sculptures expressing different
a copy to be permanently installed aboard
at the treasure we saw before us. It seems
types of movement, from children and
the USS Sterett in Baltimore, Maryland. This
that when she first exhibited the Balanchine
ballerinas to sports, including fencing, tennis,
incarnation of Joy would serve as a guardian
beauty at a Greenwich exhibition, an elderly
skating, gymnastics and soccer. She also was
angel for the military.
admirer couldn’t help but peer up her tutu
asked to make bronze sculptures for the sport
Today bigger plans are in store for that
to see what was underneath. Kelsey laughed
of orienteering, later being commissioned
guardian angel. Sterett has created a seven-
at the memory as she saw us do the same.
to make a running man statue to serve as a
foot version of the statue that she calls the
“Each of my girls wear lace underwear,”
new national monument to the sport of
Freedom Angel as an icon of the sacrifices
she shared, as she pointed out the delicate
orienteering in Stockholm.
made by our military. The artist hopes to
details on Elise’s costume.
We met the huge cross-country racer
raise her to a height of 30 feet and use
How the sculptor’s fine hand and detailing
called The Orienteer outside. Orienteering,
her as a new global power-brand to raise
is so exquisitely revealed in bronze is due to
Sterett informed us, is hugely popular in
much-needed funds for veterans returning
the collaboration between the sculptor and
Europe for both sexes and all ages, who
home after active duty. She has founded a
the foundry. Sterett is intricately involved in
armed with a topographical map and a
501©(3) organization, the Freedom Angel
the entire process of creating a bronze, from
compass, compete in a race of high speed
Foundation, for that purpose. “It is my
clay to molds, casting, finishing and applying
and quick thinking. Standing nine feet tall,
thought that the Freedom Angel should
patina. She learned about the technical
The Orienteer is endowed with a triumphant
belong to the people and should have a
aspects from her first foundry partner, the
toned physique reminiscent of those Renais-
common placement where anyone can
Renaissance Fine Art Foundry. Since 1971,
sance Italian rock stars, Michelangelo’s David
visit her any day of the year. I hope she will
she has worked with the Polich Tallix Fine
among them, that raised the bar for sculpted
become a new national symbol for taking
Art Foundry in New York, entrusting her
men. To hear the humorous story behind
care of our veterans and saying `thank you’
sculptures to their expertise. “They are the
her statue of the running man was to get to
for all that they do for us.”
best in the business, bar none,” she told us,
know him as intimately as Sterett did, with an
As of now, she is looking for a well-sited
explaining that they are pros in sculpture
attention to anatomical details that required
placement for the Freedom Angel and is
enlargement making sure that each piece is
close study and sensitive execution.
ready to donate her as an eternal guardian
proportionately exact. The artist needs to put
Standing near him is an angel who is
the details and finishing touches on the pieces
particularly dear to Sterett’s heart. She was
before they are cast in bronze. The results of
born out of tragedy after Pan American’s
their shared workmanship are flawless.
Flight #103 was blown up by extremists over
Are you ready to welcome Freedom Angel
In addition to her ballerinas, Sterett-
Lockerbee, Scotland, on December 21, 1988.
to your heart and home? Sterett says: Call
Gittings Kelsey has been commissioned to
One of Sterett’s neighbors had been aboard
me! 860-350-4938
of joy and compassion on behalf of the Foundation.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE/ CULTURE//MAGAZINE /MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
53 53
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CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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Dubbed “The Patron Saint of Stoners” and “America’s Cannabis Sweetheart,” the name Tommy Chong is synonymous with the comedic exploration of marijuana culture. Along with life-long side-kick Richard Anthony “Cheech” Marin, the duo known as Cheech and Chong produced a slew of hit comedy movies and Grammy-nominated comedic albums in the late nineteen seventies and eighties. More recently, Cheech and Chong resumed live performances and have toured nationally to critical acclaim. However, in 2003, Chong found himself on the wrong side of the law in what is now viewed as a grossly unjust decision. The charge? Marketing bong pipes to consumers through a web-based distribution company. The sting, “Operation Nice Dreams”, resulted in a conviction for Mr. Chong and a prison term of nine months. (Of the fifty-five people who were subjects of the investigation, Mr. Chong was the only one without previous convictions who received jail time). He has recently battled prostate and colorectal cancer and credits a hemp oil and cannabis therapeutic regimen for its remission. Now eighty years old, Tommy Chong, undaunted by these recent challenges and still going strong, spoke with me for over two hours about his life, career, and the state of our world. Here are the highlights of our conversation.
BY PETER J. FOX WITH TOMMY CHONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEIL VISEL
FEATURE
PF: How are you feeling? TC: Good! Getting stronger every day. Lately, I’ve been feeling even better. I’m actually better than I have been in three years. PF: That is good to hear. You’ve had a remarkable career in show business, and you’ve also placed yourself at the forefront of the cannabis legalization movement and endured a great deal of suffering for that cause. Can you tell me about why it’s so important to you? TC: Sure. I got turned on by a Chinese jazz musician who turned me onto jazz and pot and Lenny Bruce at the same time, all of which happened as Lenny Bruce was talking about racial inequality, back in what was nineteen fifty four or five when he had his first record. And so, the year I got turned on was probably the year I got turned onto black music, the jazz music, black culture. My first real girlfriend ended up my wife. My first ever date was with a black girl. And so I was really into significant parts of the black culture because, even though I’m half white-I was Chinese, and therefore I was considered one of the others. And so when I got turned onto jazz and pot and black people at the same time, it had an effect on me. It wasn’t just, you know, getting high and then acting crazy. It was getting high and learning about life, learning about the reality of what it was like to be
they threatened to go after my son and my wife, so I was reticent to
in the minority, especially where I grew up in Calgary,
do that. I said, “fuck it, I’ll take whatever they can hand me” because
Alberta. The racism in Calgary was rampant and out in
I knew that I wasn’t doing anything wrong morally or spiritually. I was
the open and it was considered normal, you know. I had
totally correct, and when you have a spiritual compass like I have,
a neighbor next door to me who had a black Labrador
you welcome the chance to do what’s right and to take whatever
dog named “ni--er”. Every night, he would go and yell,
punishment or whatever.
“come here, ni--er.” Every night I heard someone yelling
56
“ni--er” for the dog. And that was the attitude of the era
PF: Do you see a connection between the institutional racism in
that I grew up in. So, when it came down to going to jail
our society and the push-back on the legalization of weed?
for bongs, that was easy. I knew I was right, you know,
TC: Oh, totally, totally. The Romans controlled the early Christians.
and I knew that racism is wrong. So when I went to jail,
The emperor was considered a god, you know, and you could get
I did the same thing. I realized that it turned me onto a
killed for even looking at the emperor. But I got another theory
spiritual path. I got turned onto that. I got turned onto
to keep it short and sweet. There’s a passage in the Bible. It says
Christianity real early when I was only eight years old.
there was no beginning and there is no end, and it’s called eternity.
You know that was the only entertainment we had back
There’s never been a time when you did not exist or I did not exist.
then: going to church. It just gave me a moral backbone,
Never. We’ve always been here, and so what we’re doing as humans,
a moral compass that I follow to this day. You know, I
we’re learning that earth is just one school in the universe, just one
could’ve copped a plea, I could have won the case, but
university and it’s also a great school, and this is where we learn. If
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
FEATURE
you fail a class, you have to retake it over again. Our job is to learn
me, it was an extension of me, you know. I am that
to stay on it, and if you could help other people, that’s what we’re
guy. I can be crazy; I have that. But, those sensibili-
here to do. We’re here to help other people. And once you realize
ties he once had have changed. When he shaved his
that, then it makes it a lot of sense.
mustache, he kind of gave up that character. But, he couldn’t do it the way he’s doing it now. He’s felt, and
PF: Where do you see America headed?
I guess it’s rightly so, that he never got the credit that
TC: Enlightenment.
he thought he deserved, and the reason he never did is because he pulled out before we were finished,
PF: How so?
you know, and then he went and did other movies.
TC: There are people on the planet right now, that know this
He became another character and so a lot of people,
secret. People in India, Tibet, China, everywhere in the world,
you know, when you’re in a mold like that, you can’t
America, Alaska, everywhere.
put it back together again.
PF: And that secret would that be...?
PF: It’s never the same. I think back to Bill and Ted’s
TC: I know what the secret is, and I can’t tell the secret because
Excellent Adventure. You just knew the sequel
everybody has to evolve to that point themselves. Everybody is here
wouldn’t work. That chemistry is hard to revive.
for an experience. Whatever is in front of you is a reality. Everybody
TC: It is. Here’s the thing. The thing is that it’s magic,
has an individual reality that they have to deal with. Everybody’s
and the management really has to come from a certain
here doing different things to learn different things. That’s what
spot. I got out at the right time, you know. At the end
I’ve learned to accept. We’ve always had wars and we’ll always have
of our run of movies, we had a point where he wasn’t
wars. But on the other hand, we can still have peace. It’s up to us.
even writing with me anymore. He had his own vision after that. He did “Born in East L.A.” (the music video).
PF: How much more resistance do you think we’re going to see
I didn’t agree with it but it did well and blah blah blah,
before the federal government finally legalizes it nationwide?
you know. But like you said, it lost that magic, that
TC: We’ve had legalization before. In China, it was used to cure all
magical thing that works. But when you see our live
sorts of diseases. It was legalized in Arizona the same night that
show, you can still see little snippets of that magic.
Donald Trump was elected. That’s the way the universe works. So what I’m saying is that eventually in time will be legal everywhere. But
PF: As you look back on your career, what accom-
for as how long it will take, who knows.
plishment are you most proud of? TC: It’s kind of a selfish personal thing. When Cheech
PF: Regarding Cheech Marin, you’ve recently resumed
left me, I went on stage by myself actually for a couple
performing with him again and-
of years. I got better onstage by myself as time when
TC: Oh yeah. Everybody needs a Mexican, and I got mine. (We both
on, but the better I got, the more lonely I got, especially
laugh). But seriously, I found mine up in Canada and I lost him for
for my wife, a very beautiful and very charming and
a while. You know, he got away on me. But I got him back. He was
lovely woman (Shelby). So the one thing I’m proudest
on loan to Don Johnson for a while, but I got him back again, and I
of is that my wife now does 45 minutes of stand up all
got the best part of him too. I got the buddy of mine. I’m taking it.
by herself. She now opens for Cheech and Chong, and she’s beautiful, and now people have another reason
PF: You guys are very close.
to come and see us.
TC: We couldn’t get any closer, you know. PF: If there is one message that you would like to PF: Are we going to get to see another Cheech and Chong
give everyone, what would it be?
movie?
TC: I would tell everybody take your time, because time
TC: The truth is that I never wanted to stop doing the movies, you
is all you have, so just make the best of it. ¨
know, that’s all I wanted to do in my life. But when he left, he wanted to explore other things. The Pedro character that he played was perfect, but it wasn’t Cheech. But the character that I played was
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and will bring together the sophisticated arts and culture
area is home to many museums, including the National
communities and strong collector base from New York
Museum of Dance, National Museum of Racing and Hall
City, Boston, Montreal, the Berkshires, the Hudson Valley
of Fame, and Automobile Museum. Explore the dozens
and abroad. Positioned at the height of Saratoga Springs’
of award-winning restaurants, and enjoy events, including
summer social, cultural and thoroughbred horse racing and
the Saratoga County Fair, Saratoga Balloon & Craft
sales season that attracts international visitors from around
Festival, All-American Celebration, and Live Nation
the globe, REVEAL offers a singular destination for the
concert series. History buffs will enjoy visiting Saratoga
best in modern and contemporary art. Amid this lively and
National Historical Park, where the Battles of Saratoga
exciting social scene, REVEAL will bring together collectors,
(September 19 and October 7, 1777) took place, marking
dealers, curators, museum professionals, designers, and
a turning point in the American Revolutionary War, and
the broader Saratoga Springs community in celebration of
the first time in history a British Army ever surrendered.
40 international galleries exhibiting 200 leading artists. REVEAL will be taking place alongside one of Saratoga Springs’ most popular events, the Fasig-Tipton horse sales. Fasig-Tipton, an auction house for thoroughbred horses, and the oldest auction company of its kind in North America, is currently owned by a Dubai-based company. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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TRAVEL
Stakes, which has been referred to as the fourth jewel in the Triple Crown. Breakfast at the track while watching the horses do their morning workout is a time-honored tradition. The highlight of summer is the world-class thoroughbred racing action at the Saratoga Race Course. Enjoy 40 days of premier racing July 20th through September 3rd, 2018. There has never been a more excit-
In August 2017, 156 yearlings were sold for nearly $53 million over the course of two nights. Saratoga Springs is world renowned as an arts and
ing time for the sport of horse racing, with the recent Triple Crown victory by Justify at Belmont, coming just three years after American Pharoah won the Triple Crown.
culture destination, especially in the summer months. Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is a large amphitheater on the grounds of the Saratoga Spa State Park presenting summer performances of classical music, jazz, pop, rock, dance, and opera, as well as an annual Wine & Food Festival. It is the official summer home of the New York City Ballet, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the Philadelphia Orchestra, all of which are
Thoroughbred racing has no finer setting than Saratoga Race Course, which opened over 150 years ago, making it the oldest sporting venue in the United States.
in residence for a few weeks each summer. Visitors will find numerous arts and cultural experiences in Saratoga
Saratoga Casino Hotel and Raceway offers some
Springs this summer. The longest-running jazz festival in
1,700 exciting slots and electronic gaming machines, a
the country showcasing jazz legends and up-and-coming
Morton’s Steakhouse, luxury hotel, live entertainment,
artists, the National Ballet of Cuba and Opera Saratoga
and DJ-fueled nightclub, as well as live racing on the
will also perform at SPAC this summer. Bring the entire
historic Saratoga Harness Track. In fact, the area has a
family to experience Shakespeare in beautiful Downtown
long history of attracting wealthy magnates and colorful
Congress Park with the Saratoga Shakespeare Company during July and August. Saratoga Polo, one of the oldest Polo clubs in the nation is celebrating its 120th Season, offers exciting matches from the beginning of July through the first week of September in a beautiful panoramic setting. Experience the action from the charming, air-conditioned clubhouse or field-side tailgate picnic area. Thoroughbred racing has no finer setting than Saratoga Race Course, which opened over 150 years ago, making it the oldest sporting venue in the United States. Named one of the world’s greatest sporting venues by Sports Illustrated, the atmosphere is electric in the historic grandstand every summer as fans experience not only the best in racing, but the unmatched ambience and charm of Saratoga Springs. Horse owners, trainers, and the public come together for six weeks of thoroughbred racing each summer. REVEAL is debuting alongside one of Saratoga Springs’ most famed thoroughbred weekends: the $1.25 million Whitney Stakes. Later in August, the track hosts the $1.25 million Travers 62
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
characters, including Diamond Jim Brady, who frequented Saratoga with actress Lillian Russell during the Gilded Age and got his nickname for his love of jewelry. From the numerous art galleries, museums and renowned Saratoga Performing Arts Center to the energized Beekman Street Arts District, Saratoga is sure to delight. Skidmore College, the well-known liberal arts college in Saratoga Springs that draws students from around the world, is home to The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery. Yaddo is an artists’ community located on a 400-acre estate in Saratoga Springs. Its mission is “to nurture the creative process by providing an opportunity for artists to work without interruption in a supportive environment.” Venü Magazine looks forward to seeing you in Saratoga Springs this Summer for Health, History, Horses and Art! ¨ For more information, visit: www.ilovesaratoga.us
SPOTLIGHT ON JACQUIE GRANDE, FOUNDER REVEAL ART FAIR An Upstate New York native, Jacquie Grande has had a lifelong love affair with art. When her family traveled, they always brought back unique pieces of art from all over the world. Grande spent 25 years working in finance, but her true passion has always been art. Saratoga Springs is, perhaps, best known for horse racing, and that is something in which the city takes great pride. It is also a haven for the visual and performing arts with a particular bustle of activity in July and August. The only thing missing was a world class art fair. In 2016, Jacquie found herself dealing with the loss of two beloved family members and a dear friend within a short period of time. These events made her seek to live life more fully, and honor her lifelong passion for creativity and art. In establishing the REVEAL International Contemporary Art Fair, her goal was to create an art fair to pair with the numerous world-class cultural offerings of this celebrated summer destination, which would embrace diversity and discovery and provides a unique platform for a select group of art galleries to showcase art from the foremost emerging, mid-career and established artists and to make art accessible to all. REVEAL runs from August 3-5 with a VIP preview and celebration kicking things off on August 2. The fair will feature artists from about 40 different galleries. For more information, visit: www.revealartfair.com
SPOTLIGHT:
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Tk
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
Summer Impressions tk?
THE ART SPIRIT
The Art Spirit of Robert Henri and Herman Margulies Written by Dianne B. Bernhard CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
65
THE ART SPIRIT
of aspiring artists who thrived under his encouragement and inspiration. Henri believed that serious artists should develop their own means of expression and not be pressured into following stringent aesthetic dictums and conservative standards. He defied tradition and convention to bring his signature enthusiasm for the lively details of daily life to the canvas. At the time, critics gave his work mixed reviews. Some disliked what they called his coarse, vulgar subjects and lack of technique. Others praised his individuality and honest portrayal of the diversity and prevailing social conditions of the United States at the time. And still others emulated him, reveling in his determination to give progressive artists the courage and confidence to stay the course and stay true to their art. His influence went beyond the classroom with the publication of his book The Art Spirit, a collection of his lecture notes, criticisms, and musings on art. It is still in print today. Like many of our modern-day artists, Henri honored the close relationship of art to life. He sought to cultivate spontaneity, encouraged raw talent and asked that his students paint with the firsthand emotions they derived from life. Above all, he wanted artists to look at contemporary scenes through fresh, unprejudiced and unacademic eyes. His book, The Art Spirit, embodies the essence of Henri’s teachings. It is also the inspiration behind my work as a pastel artist and the Art Spirit Foundation, founded more than 25 years ago to A WRITER FOR THE CHICAGO DAILY NEWS WROTE
promote the medium of pastel in the arts through
IN 1934, five years after American artist Robert Henri’s
awards and patronage of pastel artists. Its overall
death, “Robert Henri might have developed into Amer-
mission is to enrich lives through art.
ica’s greatest painter had he not chosen to become
In his book’s foreword, he shared his thoughts on
America’s greatest art teacher.” For pastel artists like
what art is all about. He wrote: “The subject is beauty
me, he was both. He not only had a profound impact
– or happiness, and man’s approach to it is various.”
on American art through his work, he influenced count-
That’s also the perfect description for the works of my
less artists and was one of my two greatest mentors.
other great mentor, Herman Margulies, America’s fore-
Renowned for influencing the course of American
most contemporary pastelist and a master of depicting
art in the 20th century, Henri studied art in Philadelphia
the beauty of life. Like Henri, he was a passionate man
and Paris, before accepting a teaching position at the
who believed in painting from the heart and he too
New York School of Art in 1902 at the invitation of
found beauty everywhere he looked. “Art,” he once said, “is the backbone of my life.” Key
William Merritt Chase, a pastel master extraordinaire.
to his survival, his talent for the arts literally saved his
One of New York City’s original “Eight,” and a leading figure of the Ashcan School of American Realism, he
Above: Harbor Pattern #8
life growing up during the Nazi occupation in Warsaw
later taught at the Art Students League in New York
Opposite Page Top to Bottom: Fall Impressions #44; Ballet Lesson #4; Abandoned #81
when he was teenager and later in the concentration
in 1915 and ended up founding his own school, the Henri School of Art, in the 1920s to welcome legions 66
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
camp at Krakow, where he was interred and assigned to the enamel factory.
“In this camp,” he said, “my art once again became a rescuing asset. I was occasionally asked to do a portrait for the Nazi soldiers. For the effort, I received extra bread or soup.” Herman weighed just 86 pounds when he was liberated by Allied forces, the only one of his immediate family to survive the camp. He spent a few months recuperating in the hospital before moving to Brussels
“...the Art Spirit Foundation, founded more than 25 years ago to promote the medium of pastel in the arts through awards and patronage of pastel artists. Its overall mission is to enrich lives through art.” to live with an aunt. There he received his only formal art training, studying oil painting, classical drawing and anatomy at the Academie Royale Des Beaux Arts. He came to America in 1951, creating a new life for himself far from his native Poland and the atrocities he witnessed, and with it, inventions that would make life better for others. In addition to his love of art, Herman was a visionary inventor and worked in the medical industry for Sterling Drugs, where he held more than 30 patents on medical devices and packaging, most notably, the disposable syringe. His paintings celebrate the beauty of life. Color fascinated him. Nature’s palette nurtured him. He was intoxicated he said, by the new life he had in America. “I could only dream back then of such a life. The landscape I see is more beautiful in my new perception. It provokes all my senses to a passion to paint. This landscape was always there since its birth, waiting for me to paint whatever I wish.” And paint he did, first with oils, then only with pastels, preferring the immediacy and performance of the medium. He painted in oils for many years. The process he found was slow and not suited to his temperament. Those who knew him often described him as impetuous and always up for an adventure. Pastels allowed him to paint quickly and spontaneously, seeing the results immediately and allowing his passion to burst onto the canvas. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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He once likened the process of pastel painting to a musical performance, where he was the conductor of a symphony of color that played out in landscapes that glowed. He created more than 1,500 works of art, 400 of which my husband and I were fortunate to purchase over the years in what is now the world’s largest private collection of his works. Barns were a favorite subject of his and all of them he called “abandoned.” He wouldn’t give his barns a name. He just numbered them. As he told me, the barns represented dual feelings for him. He would remember his childhood, a happy carefree time when he would sleep in a haybarn on a vacation with his parents and drink fresh milk from the cows or he would recall the many times he hid in barns to avoid capture by the Nazis. When he moved to Connecticut he would photograph the barns, many decaying and on the verge of being demolished, often going inside to see their construction. Then he would paint them. The barns he painted were mostly abandoned, he told me, adding that they looked very sad and torn by the winds. “When the painting is finished, they still look proud and beautiful, even when they are totally abandoned.” That feeling of abandonment was a familiar one to Herman who lost his parents and siblings to the Nazis.
“Herman Margulies speaks volumes through his paintings, each telling a tale of rainbows after the storm, pride in the face of adversity and spirit when all else seems lost.” He often felt alone in this world, yet his work always suggested strength and fortitude, as if he was painting the story of his life and his indomitable will to survive. Working in pastels allowed him to feel his emotions as he painted, honoring his sadness, resilience, resolve and hopefulness all at the same time. “I never use a blending stick or touch the pastel with my fingers because this makes it look muddy. I like the individual strokes to show because I think that an artist’s stroke is like his handwriting – very personal and revealing – and should be strong and visible.” Herman developed a strong impressionistic style that 68 68
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE CULTURE//MAGAZINE CONTEMPORARY
THE ART SPIRIT
not only expanded the use of the medium, but brought it a new level in the art world. His paintings brought him recognition by the most prestigious art organizations in the United States, including the Salmagundi Club, the National Arts Club, Artists Fellowship and the Pastel Society of America. Flora Giffuni, whose visionary leadership gave birth to the renaissance of pastel in 1970, was a great fan of Margulies, recognizing in him, perhaps, the same traits her teacher Robert Brackman championed. Best known for his portraits of Charles Lindbergh and his wife, several US presidents, military leaders and prominent Americans, Brackman was a student of Robert Henri and George E. Bellows, one of the original Eight that Henri belonged to. From them, he inherited the brilliancy and the possibilities of color. As a teacher, Brackman would often advise his students to “think in color.” His use of color was consistent throughout subject matter, creating form through color and not design. Herman too was a master colorist and a great fan of the pure pigment that pastel offered. His paintings were vibrant and luminous, showcasing color in a way many had never before seen in pastels. People are caught off guard when they see his work, because he was able to achieve certain effects that only oils were known to do. Was that because his paintings expressed a depth of emotions that were rooted in life experiences that touched his soul? I think so. Robert Henri wrote “painting is the expression of ideas in their permanent form. It is the giving of evidence. It is the study of our lives, our environment. The American who is useful as an artist is one who studies his own life and records his experiences; in this way he gives evidence. If a man has something to say he will find a way of saying it.” Herman Margulies speaks volumes through his paintings, each telling a tale of rainbows after the storm, pride in the face of adversity and spirit when all else seems lost. Both Robert Henri and Herman Margulies believed in encouraging artists to expand and explore with their heart and their work. “Let your artistic talent grow with you regardless of where your talent is expressed,” Herman used to say to his students, me among them. What we admirers, collectors and artists learned from them is expressed in amazingly rich and colorful pastels across America and around the world. Each a work of art uniquely embodying the true essence of the art spirit. ¨
Opposite Page Top to Bottom: Spring Impressions #60; Flower Impressions #43; Fisherman’s Harbor #0 Above: Summer Impressions #92
About the Author: Venü is honored to welcome Dianne Bernhard as a contributing columnist for a fourpart Art Spirit series. An accomplished painter, teacher, arts advocate, devoted patron of the arts, she is also the founder of the Art Dianne and Herman Margulies Spirit Foundation, dedicated to the work of living artists. The past President of The National Arts Club, and its Director of Fine Arts, she currently serves as the First Vice President of The Pastel Society of America. Dianne resides in Connecticut and New York where she continues to champion the renaissance of pastel as well as recognition for living artists of every medium.
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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PULSE:
Arts
MUSEUM GARAGE Miami’s Museum Garage Park and View Written by Susana Baker Photography by Armando Colls
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One of the most innovative neighborhoods in the United States is the
renowned architects and artists, drew inspiration from the surrealist
brainchild of Miami Design District developer Craig Robbins and his
parlor game, Cadaver Equis (Exquisite Corpses). The surreal parlor
company DACRA. DACRA, along with its partner, L. Callerton Real
game involves a collection of images assembled by various artists
Estate, created the new Design District, an impressive masterpiece in
with no regard or knowledge of what the other artist has drawn. It is
urbanism not seen before in the United States with its newest addition
all assembled into one playful image with components that do not
and recent unveiling of the Museum Garage.
necessarily match but flow together as one playful composition.
The 7-story, 800-car Museum Garage serves as the gateway to a
The architects and artists chosen for this innovative endeavor
stunning collection of luxury boutiques and high-end restaurants in
include WORKac architectural firm from New York City, with prin-
the Design District and the neighboring Institute of Contemporary
cipals Amale Andraos and Dan Wood; J Mayer H. Architects from
Art (ICA). Norman and Irma Braman created the ICA and were major
Berlin; Nicolas Buffe, a French artist from Paris who lives in Japan;
players in bringing Art Basel to Miami.
Manuel Clavel Rojo of Spain’s Clavel Arqutectos; and Terrence Riley
DACRA and L. Callerton Real Estate commissioned architect
of Keenen/Riley architects, with offices in both New York and Miami
Terrence Riley to oversee and curate the Museum Garage project.
Design District. Since the beginning stages of the Design District,
The concept was to incorporate innovators from around the world
Riley has been involved in the creative design, strategic planning and
to create their unique façade on the structure. The design of the
conceptualization of the district, alongside Craig Robbins.
façade celebrates social interaction, sustainability, art, music, and
The ultimate design of the Museum Garage was inspired by Miami’s
landscape. Riley, whose architectural firm K/R collaborated with
automotive landscape, the city’s continuous construction projects and
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
unending barricades. The barricades, inspired by Bob Barricades, and seen throughout Miami for decades, was Riley’s inspiration for his façade. The design was initially created to be the entrance to the garage, but when the Cadaver Equis was unveiled, Riley chose Nicolas Buffe’s design, with its larger than life animal gargoyles greeting visitors as they enter the garage. Museum Garage is as precise as its name. It is a garage, but it’s also a contemporary museum. Its masterpieces of art, hanging vertically on it façade, consist of five amazing works of art and architecture that were created by some of the most extraordinarily talented, passionate visionaries of our time. Barricades, Terrence Riley (Keenan/Riley Architects), inspired by Miami’s continuous construction and automotive landscape and its ubiquitous orange and white striped traffic barriers. The faux barriers are turned right side up and form a brightly colored screen. The façade has fifteen “windows” framed in mirrors and stainless steel, through which concrete planters pop out above the sidewalk. CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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PULSE:
Arts
Urban Jam, Clavel Arquitectos, from Spain created their façade by
aerodynamic shapes of automotive design and appear to float above
depicting the rebirth of urban life in Miami. In it new con-
the sidewalk below. Smaller volumes, covered in metal screens,
struction sprouts side by side with the old. Referring to the
project outward and are activated with embedded light at night.
urban growth of Miami and its traffic jams, 45 car bodies
J Mayer H explained that he decided on the name “XOX” because
rendered in silver and gold metallic are suspended in a gravity-
his work hugs the facade of WORKac and kisses Buffe’s Façade.
defying positioning to depict 45 cars caught in a surreal traffic jam. Ant Farm, WORKac, New York City-based, principals Amale Andraos Serious Play, Nicolas Buffe. A French-born artist living in Japan,
and Dan Wood, created a façade that faces east on NE 1st Avenue.
Nicholas is the only non-architect to be invited to play in the Cadaver
It celebrates the social interaction and sustainability of art and music
Equis game. His work features a variety of different 2D and 3D
and also includes “DIPPIN” a street art panel by New York artist
elements crafted from laser cut metals and fiber resin plastic. The
Jamian Juliano-Villani commissioned by WORKac and the Design
composition reflects Buffe’s childhood passion for video games and
District. The ant colony-inspired façade places an emphasis on public
Japanese animation. The result is the unexpected juxtaposition of
spaces and resembles an ant farm of public activity while providing
Anime, Tokusatsu, Japanese manga and video games, along with
visual contract, shade, and protection.
classical Renaissance and love for Baroque and Rocco. Miami’s Museum Garage is located on the corner of NE First Avenue
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XOX (Hugs and Kisses) J Mayer H. Architects, Berlin-based archi-
and NE 41st Street. The masterpiece of eye-catching contemporary
tects, created their façade with huge interlocking puzzle pieces that
works of arts that are gravity-defying is a must-see when in Miami.
nestle at the corner with the forms of WORKac’s façade. The“XOX”
Simply park your car in this museum of garage and enjoy the art and
enigmatic forms, with bold striping and bright colors, recall the
design of world-class architects and artists. At only $3.00 for the first
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
four hours, parking here is undoubtedly the best bang for your buck that you will find in Miami Design District! Welcome to the Design District! ¨ For more information in the Design District www.miamidesigndistrict.net. For Tours: The Design District Experience @ www.theartexperiences
About the author: Susana Baker is an award-winning curator and journalist in the Miami Contemporary Art Scene, receiving the prestigious award of TOP 100 influential Puerto Rican for journalism and the arts. In 2017, The National Conference of Puerto Rican Women, Woman of the Year Award for achievements in arts and journalism. Honored with a Proclamation from Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez for contributions in the arts for the community. Susana Baker, is CEO and founder of the Art Experience, with its signature tour Dine, Design and Explore the Arts, a private curated art and culinary tour of the Design District, Wynwood and Little Havana. For more information and reservations call 305-767-5000, reservationsarttour@gmail.com. Contact: Colls Fine Art Photography, Armando Colls 305-903-7786, www.CollsFineArtPhotography.com
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
73
PULSE:
Stage
Taye Diggs’ New Hat
VENU: You’ve had a busy career. What inspired you to add “director” to the list
The Star of Stage and Screen Makes His Directing Debut
of your professional accomplishments? DIGGS: “It was just the piece. I was brought in, early on, in one of the workshops to be
By William Squier
the choreographer. Then, when the piece moved on, it resonated so much with me that I wanted to stay attached to it. And it turned out that the position of director opened up. So, the situation just kind of presented itself and I said, “Yes.” I’m glad that I did. It’s been quite a process. Sometimes something just kind of feels right. And this felt right.” VENU: Talk a little about the elements of the play that spoke to you? DIGGS: “It’s basically about a group of black men offering their perspectives on life today. That in itself I found very intriguing. It made for a good first director’s play, because it’s very, very loose. And it’s brand new, so nobody’s expecting anything. There’s some movement and there’s some singing. I let everybody know, early on, that I just wanted to be free to express my perception of the Photo Contributed
piece, as well as letting it speak for itself. It’s something that I think needs to be seen, especially today. We’re in a position where I
74
In a professional career that has lasted less
McBeal, Private Practice, Murder in the First
think people are very ready to hear pieces like
than a quarter century, Taye Diggs has racked
and Empire.
this. And I want to take advantage of that.”
up an impressive list of credits. Diggs hit the
Along the way, Diggs has somehow
ground running straight out of the acting
also managed to fit in voice-over work,
VENU: You credit your mom – Marcia
program at Syracuse University, by making
teaching, co-founding a contemporary
Berry – with motivating you to become an
his Broadway debut in the 1994 revival of
dance company, Dre.dance, and writing the
entertainer. She’s been very active in local
Carousel. Next, he originated a role in the
children’s books Mixed Me! and Chocolate
theater over the years. Were there things
juggernaut Rent and followed that with
Me. That’s wearing an awful lot of hats! But,
that you learned from observing her that
stints in the hit musicals Chicago, Wicked
just recently, Diggs tried on a new one:
you’ve carried into your directing?
and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. At the
stage director. And he did so by helming a
DIGGS: “I can’t help but emulate her work
same time, he made his big screen debut as
series of developmental performances of a
ethic. She raised us and then went back to
the colorfully named Winston Shakespeare
new play by Keenan Scott II, Thoughts of a
get a degree in theater and dance. When my
in the romantic comedy How Stella Got
Colored Man on a Day When the Sun Set Too
father was working, she’d drag us to rehears-
Her Groove Back and parlayed that suc-
Early – described by the author as “a raw and
als. So, we were always on the move -- always
cess into starring roles in other films, like
honest look at the limitations, stereotypes
watching people perform. That’s when I made
The Best Man and Brown Sugar. And he’s
and obstacles that the world attempts to
the correlation between moving and excite-
played leading and recurring characters on
place on men of color.” So, we caught up
ment and performance and the arts. So, it
many successful television series, like Alley
with Diggs to see how well his new hat fit.
was kind of destined that I would go into the
CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
theater – even though I didn’t know it! She had to kind of force me to go to a performing arts high school in upstate New York! That’s when everything changed for me.” VENU: Were there influential directors, during your high school or college years, who taught you things you’ve harkened back to? DIGGS: “My high school acting teacher, Mr. Schneider, was very thoughtful and methodical. And I’ve found that works for me as a director -- with Thoughts of a Colored Man in particular. We’re starting from scratch. We don’t have any deadlines. So, I’m allowing everybody, including myself, to experiment. I tend to be kind of anxious. When I’m forced to breathe, I stop and really listen. That’s when stuff just presents itself. So, it has been
Opposite Page: Keenan Scott II, Taye Diggs and Students from Syracuse University Right: Taye Diggs. Below: Charles Goodridge and Reynaldo Piniella.
Photo Contributed
If we don’t like it, we’ll let you know. If we don’t
life-altering.”
say anything, play it even louder.” VENU: I want to mention the names of some of the Broadway directors that
VENU: At this point you’ve done several
you’ve worked with to see what you
private readings. What’s next?
might’ve learned from each experience.
DIGGS: “We’ve got a producer, Brian A.
Straight out of school, you were directed
Moreland, who is very ambitious. All of a
by Nicholas Hytner in a revival of Carousel?
sudden we have performances scheduled
DIGGS: “He was so very, very friendly. He
at my alma mater, Syracuse University, and
treated everyone with the utmost respect. He
we’re doing workshops at both New York Theater Workshop and Arena Stage. I’m
gave just as much attention to the person that had one line and carried a daisy as he did to
Photo Contributed
literally going wherever I’m led and doing my best to keep up! I’m very excited and
leads. I noticed that. And I respected that.” your creative partners on the piece?
proud to be going back to Syracuse.”
VENU: How about Michael Greif, the
DIGGS: “I know my strengths and I know
director of Rent?
where I struggle. So, I’ve brought on my
The hope of the creative team is, of course,
DIGGS: “Oh, man! I have no words! At the
friends Jennifer Parsinen (Choreographer)
to eventually mount a full, commercial pro-
time, I had no idea of what Rent was really
and Shannon Stoeke (Associate Director).
duction of the play. In the meantime, you can
about. We were all kind of starting out as
Jennifer was a principal dancer / dance
see Diggs onscreen in the coming months
actors. But, Michael had a way of teaching us
mistress of Dre.dance. Shannon is one of my
in the films Set it Up (with Zoey Deutch and
and highlighting our positives. I don’t even
best friends and a producing partner. I love
Lucy Liu) and River Runs Red (with John
have the words! I’m just thankful for him! He
to bounce ideas off of other people. Those
Cusack and George Lopez). And his third
was really, really smart. I don’t know what his
two to keep me honest, they fill in the gaps
children’s book, I Love You More Than…,
secret is. I should ask him!”
and give me perspective. So, we want to
is due to be published in September. But,
move forward as a directing team. Madison
busy as he is, Taye Diggs is pleased to be
VENU: Let’s get back to Thoughts of a
McFerrin (Vocalist/Composer) is a musical
“wearing a new hat.”
Colored Man. Tell me a little bit about
powerhouse. So, we said, ‘Just do your thing.
And, fortunately, he looks good in hats. ¨ CONTEMPORARY CULTURE//MAGAZINE
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FILM + ENTERTAINMENT
Fox on Film by PETER FOX: about.me/foxonfilm
Armie Hammer as James Lord and Geoffrey Rush as Alberto Giacometti
FINAL PORTRAIT Written and Directed By Stanley Tucci. Adapted from James Lord’s memoir, A Giacometti Portrait. Starring Geoffrey Rush, Armie Hammer, Tony Shalhoub, Sylvie Testud, Clémence Poésy. A Sony Classics Pictures Release. 90 min. Rated R
A
rt biopics can be a risky proposition for filmmakers. The urge to explore a painter’s inner world ultimately centers on the painter in their natural habitat: a work studio. While that exploration can provide us with insight, it can also make for terribly dull cinema. The more successful examples, (Julian Schnabel’s 1996 “Basquiat” comes to mind) explore the world around the artist and the ether which surrounds him during his life and times.
In the “Basquiat” example, it was New York City circa 1978-1984. In less successful examples, (“Pollock”, directed by and starring Ed Harris, 2000), we spend lots of time in one or two rooms as the angst-ridden painter struggles to achieve perfection and poses questions to whoever is around him. While it can prove to be interesting, it makes for a solid stage play or book, but not cinema. Such is the case with Stanley Tucci’s “Final
Portrait” which falls into the second category. This subpar effort spends too much time in too few locations to be entertaining or even informative. Instead of an in-depth exploration of the world of Alberto Giacometti in Paris, France 1964, near the end of his life and career, we settle for observations of fitful behavior by the artist, (played by Geoffrey Rush), and his final subject, James Lord (played by Armie Hammer), who agrees to sit for Giacometti with the promise that the process will only take a couple of days. (Scent of a Woman meets Basquiat?). Giacometti’s abusive and neglectful treatment of his wife, Annette Arm (wonderfully portrayed by Sylvie Testud) is included only, it seems, to prop up a thinly adapted screenplay. The complex nature of their relationship is barely examined. Instead, extreme symptoms between the couple are dropped in and out of the film as if to illustrate the by-products of a loveless marriage. Giacometti openly cheats on his wife with a prostitute, Caroline (Clemence Posey) and encourages Annette to engage in an affair with a younger Japanese man (Takatsuna Mukai). His brother, Diego Giacometti, (admirably portrayed by Tony Shalhoub) also drops in and out, sometimes with bundles of cash which is supplied by
the sale of Alberto’s work. As Giacometti’s inner turmoil encroaches on his ability to finish the portrait of Lord, he falls behind on his work. Lord is forced to cancel his flight back to New York City. Grasping the significance of the moment, Lord takes copious notes in a diary for posterity as the tempest that surrounds Giacometti continually builds. He can’t understand how Giacometti can doubt his ability so much, especially as he becomes ever more successful. The artist responds that there is no better breeding ground for doubt than success. He feels that everything he has ever exhibited has been unfinished – it’s impossible for him ever to be satisfied. Diego arrives from the gallery with a huge bundle of cash. Giacometti peels off some notes for his brother, a smaller amount for himself and he asks Lord to help him find a hiding place for the rest. Lord witnesses Giacometti doing business with a dealer, trading some of his new work for his old drawings, a transaction that surprises Lord, but the artist can’t let go of his original works, and the art world loves his most recent which they see as iconic. As he paints, Giacometti gets more frustrated and exclaims that he doesn’t even know if he should continue. The two go out to eat
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with Annette, but once in the restaurant, Giacometti sees Caroline and disappears to sit with her, much to Lord’s discomfort. Annette is used to being abandoned but she is hurt and leaves. On day four, Lord feels the painting is going well, but Giacometti says he cannot reproduce what he sees and asks Lord for another week. Lord changes his flight again. Diego tells Lord how, as a boy, he used to love watching his brother and father sculpting together, but choose not to join them as he was happier getting into mischief. Lord says he was the same; busy being thrown out of various
Director Stanley Tucci
institutions. Giacometti bursts in and violently rips up drawings. He has been to see a lithographer about transferring his art onto a stone but has been told that the paper is too old for this process to work. Lord tries to save the drawings, some of which have been included accidentally. Diego just watches as he is used to this violent behavior. Later, Diego presents Lord with one
of his own sculptures and explains that Caroline has gone missing, which explains the artist’s particularly crazy behavior. Giacometti turns to Annette to model for him, in the freezing- cold studio, but she doesn’t please him. In her frustration, Annette despairs that she gives him everything, but that he gives her nothing. For her, this is not the home, nor that marriage, that she longs for, plus she sees Giacometti giving all of his money to Caroline. In response, he throws some cash at her before storming out to search the streets for his lover. Lord is on the phone justifying to someone back home why he must delay his return yet again. Lord laments the endlessness of the process to Diego, who empathizes with his brother but advises that Lord should not change his flight back again and should instead set a deadline. Annette has used her money to buy a new dress. Her husband has promised to take her to the opening night of Chagall’s ceiling at the Opera House. Caroline jubilantly screeches up in her beautiful new convertible car. She insists on taking Lord and Giacometti for a white-knuckle drive that both amuses and terrifies the two men. Giacometti falls ill and can’t take Annette to the opera. She cares for him through his sickness, while Caroline’s pimps make sure that she is kept busy with other clients. Once he recovers, Giacometti has a new lease on life, and agrees to finish the painting in four
Sylvie Testud as Annette Giacometti and Armie Hammer as James Lord
more sittings. His studio has been ransacked, which Diego tells Lord is a warning from the pimps. Lord accompanies Giacometti to a meeting with these men where he pays them off, nonchalantly giving them way more money than they have demanded for Caroline’s services: both posing and for sex. They work on the painting for three more days, and at the end of every session, Giacometti reaches for the brush and wipes out everything he has achieved. Lord changes his flight once again but then tells Diego he has a plan; Lord has noticed a pattern in the artist’s behavior and has made up his mind to stop the work when he senses Giacometti to be at his most positive and before the big brush comes out. At the next sitting, Lord implements the plan, leaping up at the exact moment and declaring the painting to be the best it has ever been. Giacometti is taken by surprise and concurs that this could be the beginning of something, but Lord brightly insists that no, it is the end. He will leave Paris the very next day. He
cheerfully proclaims that it has been his very high honor to sit for the artist. Lord and Giacometti take a final walk together, Giacometti insisting that his excellent friend must come back to Paris so that they can continue their work as they have made “some” progress. However, this is to be their last meeting; Giacometti dies a short time later, having written to Lord to tell him how much he had enjoyed their time together. Giacometti’s final portrait is packed up and shipped off to an exhibition in New York. “Final Portrait” is nothing more than an observation of a short period in the life of Alberto Giacometti. Its narrow scope was frustrating and provided little information about its main character, whose life and career are certainly worthy of deeper exploration. Despite solid performances from its principal cast, “Final Portrait” leaves too many questions unanswered; its static delivery does not invite us in for a closer look at Giacometti. Instead, it holds us at arm’s length and keeps us there for the entire film. ¨
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DECORATIVE ARTS
Selection of Items from Spring Sales By Matthew Sturtevant Butter Baby A monumental Imperial exceptionally rare cast gilt-bronze ritual butter lamp, early Ming dynasty, circa first half 15th century, sold for £1,328,750 at Bonhams Fine Chinese Art sale in London. The week commenced with the Asian Art sale in Knightsbridge followed by the Fine Chinese Art sale in New Bond St, London, making a grand total of £8,400,000. The Asian Art
single lot in the May art auction season in New York. Nearly 58 inches (147 centimeters) wide, the picture was the cover star of a recent retrospective at the Tate Modern gallery in London. Modigliani reinvented the nude for the modern era, and when his series of paintings were first exhibited in 1917, they were considered so shocking that police closed the show in Paris. The final
price includes a buyer’s premium. Modigliani completed 22 reclining nudes and 13 seated nudes between 1916 and 1919. Most of the former are found in museums, such as The Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Modigliani’s dealer Leopold Zborowski gave him a stipend of 15 francs a day and paid the models five francs to pose in a Paris apartment.
Collection of Collections In what was billed as the “sale of the century,” the art collection of Peggy and David Rockefeller, comprising 1,500 pieces, sold at auction for a record-breaking $832.5 million. Well above the expected $500 million it was expected to fetch. Organized over 10 days, including online sales, it nonetheless broke numerous records, testament to the health of the global art market. The collection’s crown jewel was auctioned Tuesday for $115 million, the sixth most expensive sale made £1,570,800 and the Fine Chinese Art sale £6,829,075. The butter lamp was cast with the Imperial reign mark of the Jingtai Emperor (r.1449-1457). It weighed 335 kg, and measured an impressive 102.6cm high x 102cm diameter. It was a unique example and no other similar vessel of such proportions and bearing the Imperial Jingtai reign mark would appear to have survived.
Rare Opportunities A stunning nude that is the largest painting produced by Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani sold for $157.2 million in New York on Monday, becoming the fourth most expensive work of art sold at auction. Painted a century ago, Modigliani’s masterpiece “Nu couche (sur le cote gauche)” fetched the highest price in Sotheby’s history and was the star 78
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ever sold: Pablo Picasso’s “La fillette a la corbeille fleurie,” a part of the Rockefeller Collection since 1968. David Rockefeller, the grandson of the legendary magnate John Rockefeller, died last year aged 101, more than 20 years after the death of his wife Peggy. He had embraced his family’s tradition of philanthropy and inherited his taste in art from his mother, who co-founded New York’s Museum of Modern Art. The proceeds will go to a series of nonprofit organizations, including David Rockefeller’s alma mater Harvard University, as well as Maine National Park, which was beloved by the family and to which he donated a thousand acres for his 100th birthday.
JULY 26-29, 2018
Tobias Møhl, courtesy of Heller Gallery
Aspen Ice Garden
art-aspen.com
VENÜGRAM
“Summer’s Start” PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA MIKULSKI
Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown, MA. June 2018
“The island is ours. Here, in some way, we are young forever.” – E. Lockhart –
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