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Lost New York: An Exhibition of Vanished Landmarks at the New-York Historical Society

Until September 29 at the New-York Historical Society we can enjoy one of the most interesting and rare exhibitions of the Big Apple.


The Value of Preserving the Past

In a city that constantly reinvents itself, the significance of remembering what came before is paramount. New York City, a metropolis of ambition and contradictions, has always been in a state of flux. It is a place where entire neighborhoods are transformed overnight and architectural marvels are replaced by modern skyscrapers. Yet, to fully understand New York as it stands today and to shape its future meaningfully, it is crucial to appreciate the layers of history beneath its streets.

The current exhibition, "Lost New York," on display at the New-York Historical Society until September 29, serves as a reminder of the landmarks and spaces that once defined the city, many of which are now lost to time. Through illustrations, paintings, photographs, and artifacts, the exhibition provides a journey into Gotham’s forgotten landmarks and spaces, shining a light on the iconic structures that once adorned the city’s landscape. It’s an invitation to reflect on the city’s past and its role in shaping the urban environment we navigate today. These lost buildings and public spaces evoke memories of a New York that no longer exists but continues to live on through documentation, storytelling, and exhibitions like this one.


Gotham's Lost Treasures: Icons of a Bygone New York

Among the most remarkable sites explored in the "Lost New York" exhibition is the Croton Reservoir, an essential element of the city’s early water supply system. Located where the New York Public Library and Bryant Park now stand, the massive structure was a marvel of engineering in the 19th century. Its towering granite walls were not only functional but also offered sweeping views of the city, acting as a public promenade. As New York’s needs evolved, the reservoir was demolished in the late 19th century, replaced by the library’s iconic Beaux-Arts building. However, fragments of the reservoir’s history remain beneath the library, hidden from view but never forgotten.

Nearby, the Crystal Palace once stood in all its glory, a shimmering glass-and-iron exhibition hall that was the pride of New York in the 1850s. Built to rival London's famous structure of the same name, it hosted the Exhibition of the Industry of All Nations, showcasing technological innovations of the era. Its destruction by fire in 1858 marked the end of a brief but important chapter in the city’s architectural history. Today, Bryant Park’s serene green space belies the dramatic history that unfolded there.

Federal Hall, the original site of George Washington’s inauguration and the first U.S. capitol building, is another lost treasure. The original building, located on Wall Street, was demolished in 1812. In its place now stands a 19th-century structure that serves as a reminder of the city’s deep historical ties to the birth of the nation, but the significance of the original space is often overlooked.

Other fascinating losses include the Hippodrome, once a grand theater where Vaudeville thrived in the early 20th century. It was the largest theater in the world at the time of its opening in 1905, but by 1939, it was gone, replaced by an office building. Similarly, the iconic speakeasy 21 Club, synonymous with the Prohibition era and a favorite haunt of celebrities, shuttered its doors in 2020 after nearly 90 years of operation. Its closure marks the end of an era, and its absence is felt deeply in the cultural fabric of the city.

The Latting Observatory, a towering structure that predated the Empire State Building in offering bird’s-eye views of the city, and the elevated railroads that once crisscrossed Manhattan, providing crucial public transportation, are further examples of lost infrastructure that shaped daily life. The once ubiquitous "Omnibuses," horse-drawn carriages that served as the city’s first public transit, also disappeared as the city modernized, replaced by motorized transportation. These iconic but forgotten elements of New York's history remind us of the city’s continuous push toward progress and the price that progress exacts.

A Testament to History and Memory

The curators of the "Lost New York" exhibition have done a magnificent job of piecing together the fragments of the city’s past, allowing visitors to imagine what these lost landmarks once meant to New Yorkers. Through their careful selection of artifacts, photographs, and stories, they’ve created a compelling narrative of New York’s evolution, a reminder that every corner of this city is steeped in history.

The New-York Historical Society, in hosting this exhibition, continues to play an essential role in preserving the memory of the most fascinating city in the world. By documenting the lost spaces and landmarks that shaped Gotham, they provide the city with a crucial link to its past. This exhibition is more than just a collection of old photos and maps; it is a living testament to the city's ever-changing identity and a must-see for anyone who cherishes the legacy of New York.

For tickets and info check the link here.

Article and photos by Joseph Ralph Fraia - jrfstudio.com - @jrfstudio

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Best Indoor Activities In NYC

It’s almost December, and the weather is getting colder and colder each day. With that, staying outside becomes a little less enjoyable. But there are ways to have fun even in the coldest weather! Here are some great indoor activities you will definitely enjoy!

See an exhibition

Museums always have exhibitions you can visit. And in New York City, you have a chance to choose any exhibition you’d like: art, fashion, sculpture - you name it. So make sure to visit an exhibition on one of these cold days, and finish your trip with a nice cup of coffee in a warm coffee shop.

Shop at Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is probably one of the most famous spots for food lovers in NYC. Dozens of vendors will offer you the best of their foods. Pick a day and spend it at Chelsea Market, trying all the foods you can find. You can even have a contest and elect the best one out there!

Explore the New York Public Library

If you haven’t been to the New York Public Library recently, take a trip there! Find a book you are particularly excited about and read a couple of pages. And don’t forget to just walk around the rooms to see the beauty of a century-old building.

Plan a SPA day

What can be better than a hot sauna on a cold day? Take a day-long spa trip and experience all the pleasures of it! Go to a sauna or a steam room, jump into a pool, and get a nice relaxing massage afterward. You will definitely feel more relaxed and ready for new achievements!

Go to a Broadway Show

If you are trying to make plans for a cold, rainy weekend, consider going to a Broadway show. There are so many options for everyone! You can always buy tickets to classics like The Lion King or check out newer shows. Choose the mood you are going for, and there will definitely be a Broadway Show for it!

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Harry Potter Exhibition in New York - The Wizarding World takes over the Big Apple

As a huge Harry Potter fan, I was extremely excited when I found out that there was going to be a Harry Potter exhibition in NYC. It took me a while to get there, but last weekend I was finally able to visit.

The exhibition shows some of the most iconic characters and settings from the Harry Potter universe including Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter and The Cursed Child. Everything is very well-designed, and the technology used is great, so you get a full dive into the wizard world.

What I enjoyed the most, is that the experience is personalized. You can choose a Hogwarts house and a wand for yourself, which was definitely one of the coolest parts because hey, who doesn’t want to play in a Harry Potter movie?

You can also put yourself into Harry’s shoes and get into that little room under the stairs Harry lived in or play Quidditch and see how good you are.

For those who really enjoyed the movies and want to get a glimpse of the behind the scenes, the exhibition has some of the original costumes and items that were used in the movies.

Oh and of course make sure you see the Hungarian Horntail, a dragon Harry had to face during his first task in the Triwizard Tournament.

Overall, the exhibition turned out to be an amazing experience! It was so much fun, and the great graphics and designs filled my heart with joy.

The organizers offer an audio guide, so in case you forgot some of the scenes from Harry Potter, you don’t have to rewatch all the movies or reread the books. And if you wanta memory from the exhibition, there are plenty of Harry Potter-themed souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, and caps.

And if you are wondering if the exhibition is good for kids, let me tell you this: it is good for everyone! Kids will be excited to see all the magical creatures and the interactive parts, and parents can get nostalgic looking at the favorite characters they grew up with.

Article by Mary Zakharova



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Floral Sculptures Inspired By Global Destinations At Hudson Yard

Today I went to Hudson Yards to see the floral sculptures inspired by different countries: Canada, India, Puerto Rico, Japan, France, Ghana, and others. The exhibit is called VOYAGE and is presented on the first floor of Hudson Yards shopping mall. 


Local New York City florists took part in the exhibition. Each of them had to decorate 10-foot mannequins with fresh flowers. 


I loved the idea. Every florist used a specific color to represent the destination they chose. For example, for Canada, Whistler, the florist used white flowers that were coming down the dress train, to show the snowy mountains of Whistler, one of the most famous skiing destinations in the world. 

Another sculpture representing Spain was done in completely different colors. The mannequin was covered in red and golden yellow flowers and represented the tradition of bullfighting with its heat and passion. 


Finally, the florist that represented India showed a traditional Saree, a very colorful and uniquely draped gown that dates back thousands of years. Made with different colored roses, it is a bright and elegant composition that does a great job representing the traditional fashion of India. 


One thing that disappointed me about the exhibition was that the sculptures were spread throughout the first floor, and even though it makes sense knowing that the exhibit is presented in a shopping mall, it was still a little distracting with a lot of people all around and the sculptures positioned in all the different places. I found out I missed a couple of them even though I thought I saw everything walking around the first floor. 


Nevertheless, the exhibition is very interesting and does a great job portraying different countries in their own unique ways. And what makes it even more exciting is the interactive part. Everyone can get a paper and vote for their favorite sculpture, and if you find yourself particularly charmed by the flowers, you can visit a class taught by a local florist. 


Article and photos by Mary Zakharova



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Art of Native America at The Met of New York

If you are interested in the history of Native Americans you should absolutely go see the Art of Native America exhibition. It brings you back to the 19th, early 20th century, and shows you the culture, fashion, and everyday items of Indigenous people. 

The exhibition displays works of more than fifty Native American groups, letting us see the similarities and differences between them, and make connections. 

What I was most fascinated by was the clothing. Every little detail had meaning, and each ornament was sewn in on purpose. One of such clothes is a man’s coat, which was made with deerskin. The coat has white and indigo outlines - these colors are classic for the Lenape people. The ornaments of the coat signify physical and spiritual health and well-being. 

Another piece of clothing, the parka, which comes from Alaska, honors all the animals that died for the creation of this clothing: dried seal intestines help create the parchment-like texture of the parka, and the birds’ beaks and feathers were used as a decoration. 

Clothes could also show the status of the family. For example, one of the women’s dresses had a lot of beading, as well as highly-priced elk teeth and shells. 

This made me think about what I wear myself, and how it correlates to who I am. Do I choose my clothing based on comfort, or am I trying to show my personality through it? It is very interesting to think how fashion varies in different times and cultures, and what it is based on. 

The other thing that I enjoyed seeing was everyday items like combs, baskets, and bowls. This helped me imagine what the everyday life of Native Americans looked like, what their activities were, and what they cared about. And in the same way as with clothing, each element had its meaning. The carvings on combs, and the ornaments on baskets - all of those represented the culture of the Indigenous people. 

There was definitely a lot to see and learn about, and it was a great first step for me to get to know a new culture that I had never encountered before. Art of Native America helps you dive into history in a very friendly way that makes you want to discover and see more. 


Article and photos by Mary Zakharova

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Emerging Ecologies: Architecture and the Rise of Environmentalism at the MOMA, NYC

The Museum of Modern Art presented a new exhibition - Emerging Ecologies: Architecture and the Rise of Environmentalism. This exhibition explores the birth of environmentalism after World War II and its development.

It was interesting to see the introduction of some of the first environmental ideas. They were widely discussed among scientists, journalists, and even citizens. What surprised me the most was that even though the reason for the rise of such ideas was similar - people were worried about the future of our planet - the ideas themselves were nothing like the ones we hear today.

Back in the 20th century, people were mostly focused on self-sustaining ecosystems that would become homes for thousands of people. Such projects were planned to be constructed on Earth and even in space in case the Earth would get destroyed by the increase of experiments with nuclear weapons.

Today we focus more on preserving nature and making sure the planet stays safe rather than thinking of ways to live if the planet is destroyed by human activity.

All of the projects looked very futuristic even for today’s world: scientists designed enclosed environments that had multiple floors, the first one designed to grow crops and plants, and the second one being apartments for people. Some of the other projects looked like an enclosed piece of land with one tall apartment building in the middle surrounded by a forest as well as fruit and vegetable plants.

Some scientists believe that each ecosystem should be built in a way that mimics the natural world. For example, Carolyn Dry proposed a housing construction method that would mimic the way corals build their reefs. Another proposition was presented by Ant Farm, an environmental design practice, who offered to create technology that would let people speak with dolphins to understand their ethics and apply their principles of living to humans.

Of course, none of those projects ever came to life, and we don’t know if they were ever possible, but the exhibition gives a new perspective on environmentalism and lets us see it from another angle.

I was excited to compare the environmentalist ideas from six decades ago and today. My biggest question coming out of this exhibition was: are those ideas actually undoable, or were people just not technologically advanced enough back then? Are self-sustaining ecosystems our future, or is it another fantasy, an unreachable goal?

The exhibition offers a lot to think about, and you should absolutely go and see it for yourself. Maybe, looking at some of the first environmental projects and having the knowledge of today’s technology, you will get inspired to create a new plan for saving the environment.


Article and photos by Mary Zakharova







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Bitter Sweet - The Exhibition - Reception Today, August 25, 2023 - 6 to 8 pm at the Tenri Cultural Institute, New York

Japan Contemporaries | Series 2
BITTER SWEET
Curated by Motoichi Adachi and Kyoko Sato

 

Artists:
Joseph Ralph Fraia, Koyuki Sakamoto, Sugako Hamazaki, Tomo, Yoko Morishita, Ola Rondiak.

 

Reception: Today, Friday, August 25, 2023, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Tenri Cultural Institute, New York | 43A W 13th St, New York, NY 10011



THE EXHIBITION

“Bittersweet” is the title of the group exhibition curated by Motoichi Adachi and Kyoko Sato in the heart of the Greenwich Village in New York at the prestigious Tenri Cultural Institute, and that features renowned New York artists Joseph Fraia and Ola Rondiak and the absolute US debut of four Japanese artists: Koyuki Sakamoto, Sungako Hamazaki, Yomo, and Yoko Morishita.

Why “Bittersweet,” you might wonder. Well, what does bittersweet mean? Sweet with a bitter aftertaste. Pleasant, but including or marked by elements of suffering or regret. 

The purpose of this art show is, then, to display artworks that express the beauty that comes from struggles, challenges, social constraints, life choices, and internal dilemmas.

Should we appreciate art and beauty more or less when we learn they express a reaction to pain, sadness, and worry? 

Human nature is always interesting and intriguing.  When we face ugliness, we seek beauty; when we suffer rudeness, we look for kindness; when we witness violence, we advocate for gentleness and compassion. Isn't that bittersweet?


Each of the artists featured in this exhibition expresses in his/her own way the experiences and the consequences of those struggles, challenges, social constraints, life choices, and internal dilemmas, and show us an uplifting and inspiring attitude towards life: no matter what you are going through, you can find purpose in creating beauty, for yourself and for others, you can draw from the well of your authentic, genuine Self, speak your truth, and donate it to the World to see. Somebody will see, will recognize that beauty, and maybe be inspired to be kinder, gentler, more loving.


THE ARTISTS

Joseph Ralph Fraia, born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1976, is a talented artist who specializes in fine art photography. He is also an accomplished writer and storyteller. As a resident artist at the renowned Salmagundi Club in New York City, Fraia has established himself within the art community. Additionally, he holds the position of chief editor and senior contributor at Livein Magazine and contributes as a writer and photo reporter for various international publications. Fraia’s photographic work encompasses a unique blend of styles and subjects, all with the intention of conveying profound and meaningful messages. His images seek to highlight the inherent beauty and purpose that can be found in every corner of the world.

Joseph Ralph Fraia, an American of Italian descent, holds a perspective that Eastern women are seen as exotic, mysterious, graceful, opulent, and seductive from a Western viewpoint. He believes this captivating allure will endure even as globalization blurs the lines between East and West. Against the backdrop of notable instances of violence targeting Asian women in pandemic-stricken America, Fraia's perspective on appreciating Asian women becomes particularly valuable. It offers insight into cultural perceptions, challenges stereotypes, and emphasizes the importance of respect and appreciation for diverse cultures in fostering a more inclusive society.

Photo ©Joseph Ralph Fraia @jrfstudio - jrfstudio.com

Joseph Ralph Fraia

Ola Rondiak, born in 1966, is a visual artist with bases in Kyiv, Ukraine, New York City, and Miami. Her artistic focus lies in contemporary portraits of women, which serve as metaphors of strength and determination. Additionally, her sculptures symbolize unity and healing. Rondiak has held solo exhibitions at prominent venues such as Ukrainian House in Washington, DC, The Gallery in New York, John William Gallery in Wilmington, Delaware, and Vodianov Studio in Kyiv, Ukraine. Notable group exhibitions featuring her work include LA Art Show (2023), Art Palm Beach (2023), Art Market Hamptons (2022), Palm Beach Modern & Contemporary (2022), Context Art Miami (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022), and the Hudson River Museum of Art (2020). Her artworks have been acquired by esteemed institutions, including the Museum of Revolution and Dignity in Kyiv, Ukraine; the Embassy of Ukraine in Bern, Switzerland; the Shevchenko Museum & National Museum of Decorative Arts in Khaniv, Ukraine; the Embassy of Ukraine in Paris; and the Hudson River Museum in New York City. Notably, Rondiak's mural in Kyiv's historic district has become a symbol of the burgeoning street art movement in the city.

Ola Rondiak

Koyuki Sakamoto, born in 1991 in Fukui Prefecture to a Korean father and Japanese mother, is a renowned artist and pastry chef. In 2008, she won the first BS Fuil Sweets Koshien competition and graduated from Kobe International Culinary Arts College of Confectionery in 2011. In 2018, while managing a cake decorating school in Fukui Prefecture, she began pioneering a new genre by creating sugar art on canvas using sugar as a pigment. She held solo exhibitions at various shrines in Japan, including Hashiudo Shrine, Ryujo Shrine, Zenchidori Shrine, and Keya Kokuryu Shrine. In addition, she exhibited her work at the Hankyu Umeda main store in Osaka in 2021 and 2010. Since 2020, she has gained popularity for her live painting performances at World Art Dubai for three consecutive years.

Koyuki Sakamoto has ventured beyond the realm of cakes to create a unique genre of sugar art on large canvases. While sugar is typically associated with sweetness rather than bitterness, her artistic creations transcend conventional boundaries. Her motifs predominantly draw inspiration from animals found in Oriental legends, such as dragons and Suzaku, without featuring any Western counterparts. The color palette she employs consists of pastel shades, exuding brightness, and gentleness while intentionally avoiding any elements of darkness or harshness. Interestingly, the cake decorations she incorporates originate from the West, resulting in a fascinating convergence of Eastern and Western influences in her work.

Koyuki Sakamoto

Koyuki Sakamoto

Sugako Hamazaki, a distinguished designer, was born in Yamaguchi Prefecture in 1960 and is currently based in Hiroshima. With a notable career spanning decades, she worked as a designer at Hakuhodo until 1991 and received esteemed awards such as the Chugoku Shimbun Advertising Planning Award and Tetra Pak International's "Design of the Year" Grand Prize. In recent years, Hamasaki has led the design course "Jugi no Sho" and contributed to the title production for the TV program "A Year at the Place of Prayer," centered around Hiroshima's atomic bombing. She has held impressive solo exhibitions at renowned venues, both domestically and internationally, including Hiroshima Mitsukoshi Gallery, Hakone Fujiya Hotel, Uno Royal Museum, Gatoh, Wwasou, and Daishoin. Her international presence expanded through exhibitions at art fairs in Paris, Dubai, and SCOPE Miami Beach.

Sugako Hamazaki resides in a city deeply affected by the aftermath of World War II. Hiroshima, along with Nagasaki, experienced the devastating impact of the atomic bombs dropped by the United States, leaving a lasting shadow of cruelty in the lives of its people. In the years following the war, efforts were made to rebuild and bring hope amidst the darkness that enveloped the city. Hamasaki incorporates the "foils" that emerged during this postwar period into her paintings as artistic materials.

The central theme of her work revolves around capturing the last sights, represented by light, witnessed by those who tragically lost their lives in the river immediately following the atomic bombing, symbolizing the darkness of that tragic event. Through her paintings, she expresses the essence of light, serving as a testament to the resilience and spirit of those affected by the darkness of that period in history.

Sugako Hamazaki

Sugako Hamazaki

Tomo, born in Fukuoka, Japan, in 1977, is an accomplished artist. After graduating from Daito Bunka University in 1999 with a BA in Chinese Literature and a teaching license in Japanese Language and Calligraphy, Tomo began teaching calligraphy classes in 2011. Notably, her artwork has been exhibited at Salon Art Shopping Paris (2021, 2022, Carrousel de Louvre), and she held a solo exhibition at Etienne Causans Gallery in 2022. She also participated in World Art Dubai (2022) and the group exhibition "JAPAN TIDE" at the National Museum of Singapore (2022). 

Tomo's artistry embraces the use of Japanese calligraphy ink, rooted in China, and coffee from Ethiopia, associated with Islamic culture, as her unique painting materials. This fusion allows her to incorporate influences from both the East (China) and the Middle East (Islamic culture). Furthermore, Tomo includes depictions of the Buddhist "Heart Sutra" originating from India, showcasing the cultural impact of South Asia. While the historical focus was often on the exchange between the East and West, Tomo's artwork unveils a broader cultural presence. Her creations illuminate the profound influence not only of the East and West but also of the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa. This recognition underscores the extensive range of diverse cultural expressions, illustrating the interconnectedness of regions and their valuable artistic contributions to the global stage.

Tomo

Tomo

Yoko Morishita, born in Kagawa, Japan, in 1972 and currently based in Tokyo. After graduating from Saga University of Art and Design in Kyoto in 1994, she embarked on her career as a designer and illustrator. Around 2017, she became an artist, focusing on expressing women's emotional liberation while establishing her own company to empower women. Since 2019, Morishita has held three solo exhibitions and a performance in Tokyo, including the noteworthy "50 Onna no backs YOLO FES" exhibition (2022) organized by her company, Coco Designs, Inc. She has also performed at Kyojin Shrine in Kyoto and participated in the ATC OSAKA ART exhibition in Osaka in 2022. Additionally, she showcased her work at World Art Dubai and has upcoming exhibitions planned in Kazakhstan and New York. With 17,000 followers on Instagram, Morishita continues to captivate audiences with her artistic journey.

Yoko Morishita's artistic theme centers around the "liberation of women's minds." Throughout history, our society has been predominantly male-centered, and breaking free from these long-standing conventions requires time, ingenuity, and concerted effort. Her approach and artwork, shaped by her own Japanese background and personal experiences, go beyond portraying women as a mere contrast to men. Instead, she offers a direct and unapologetic exploration of female beauty.

Morishita's work is attuned to the growing recognition and appreciation of women in art. By aligning with the natural demands of the current era, her art serves as an act of empowerment and encouragement for women. It reflects a sensitivity towards the evolving role and visibility of women, contributing to the ongoing narrative of female empowerment and challenging societal norms.

Yoko Morishita

Yoko Morishita


THE GALLERY

Tenri Cultural Institute is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote the study of the Japanese language and the appreciation of international art forms. The Institute hosts a variety of traditional and contemporary cultural programs in our modern, spacious educational facility, performing arts, and exhibition space.

Conveniently located in the heart of Greenwich Village, the center of New York City's educational and artistic communities, Tenri Cultural Institute is a beautiful cultural oasis amidst the hustle and bustle that is New York City.

Tenri Cultural Institute has a 30-year history in the celebration of Japanese and Western culture. By providing our audience with a traditional and unique point of view on understanding culture and the arts, we fulfill our mission: To foster cultural understanding, harmony, and community.


THE CURATORS

"I cut through the art world with the sensibility that has long been active in the world of Japanese television. We want to bring a new wind of free and unrestrained ideas to a world that values old traditions. Beautiful works are beautiful, and interesting works are interesting, even if they are not from famous art universities or patronized by influential galleries. We want to let attractive artists run amok in the world. I would like to try an unconventional challenge this time."

Motoichi Adachi

When we translate the term "Bitter-sweet" into Japanese, it encompasses the essence of ambiguous Japanese culture and language. In Japanese, the translation of "sweet" does not have a direct equivalent but rather implies a sense of "somehow" or "mildly." On the other hand, in English, the terms "bitter" and "sweet" are used together to describe the simultaneous experience of pleasure and suffering that arises when contrasting tastes are combined. Until now, our world has been understood in terms of dualism based on Western philosophy. Body and soul, yin and yang, moon and sun, woman and man, peace and war, front and back, success and failure, West and East, wealth and poverty, ordinary and extraordinary, positive and negative...

But can we really be divided by this dualism? In New York, same-sex marriage was legally recognized in 2011, followed by LGBTQ human rights. So this trend is right because everyone has the right to be happy no matter what gender they are. Children are also being educated about gender rights. And some children have the idea of "gender fluid." They say that regardless of the body they have, sometimes they are a woman, and sometimes they are a man. In other words, they are in the middle, coming and going between genders, and cannot be divided by dualism. Perhaps our world is moving toward a world of "ambiguity," as in Japanese culture.

Kyoko Sato

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Van Gogh’s Cypresses at The Met - A Must-See of this Summer in New York

When I found out that the Metropolitan Museum is holding Van Gogh’s Cypresses exhibition, I knew I was going to see it. Van Gogh is one of my favorite artists; he has fascinated me throughout the years, so I couldn’t miss it.

And finally, the day came! I saw Van Gogh’s Cypresses! The exhibition was amazing. A big room decorated with green right from the start made you feel like you were in one of Van Gogh’s paintings.

The exhibition was divided into three parts. The first part was of the most famous Cypresses paintings, one of which, of course, was Starry Night. It was impossible to get close to the painting. People were taking pictures, discussing the artwork, taking pictures again…

Starry Night, no doubt, is one of the gems of the exhibition, but, if you decide to see Van Gogh’s Cypresses, it’s good to keep in mind that Starry Night is owned by the Museum of Modern Art, and you will have a chance to see it even after exhibition is over, so pay attention to the other paintings as well!

For example, Wheat Field with Cypresses. As with any of Van Gogh’s paintings, this one has a very distinctive style with the whirls in the sky and bushes that make you almost feel the wind. The painting is very airy, and the colors of the sky, blue, lilac, and aquamarine make you feel like you are in a fairytale. You can’t keep your eyes away from the artwork.

Another painting, Landscape from Saint-Remy, gives you the feeling of peace. Looking at it, I could feel the smell of grass and rain in the air. With this painting, Van Gogh announced the series of his cypresses’ motives.

The second part of the exhibition focused on less famous Van Gogh’s works. They were his paintings of the cypresses and olive trees, as well as the sketches of his future paintings. That for me was a story of his love for the South of France, his way of expressing his feelings, experimenting with forms and colors.

Finally, the last part of the exhibition tells us the story of Paul Gauguin and the visit he paid to Van Gogh in October 1888. Van Gogh was decorating the room for his friend, and the paintings we see on the walls of The Met take us through Van Gogh’s first idea for the artworks to the final version he made before Gauguin’s arrival.

One more thing to check out is Van Gogh’s letter to his brother Theo. The letter has a sketch of one of his paintings that the artist drew to show the idea to his brother.

One downside, and an important thing to know about the exhibition, is that it is extremely crowded, and it might take you some time to get in. First, you have to sign up for the online queue, and then, when it’s your turn, you need to get into the actual line to the exhibition. If you have a chance to come in the morning, right when the museum opens, that would probably be the best time. You won’t have to wait in an online queue, and you will probably miss the “rush hour”.

The exhibition has Van Gogh’s works from all over the world, so don’t miss the opportunity to see these amazing paintings and fall in love with the artist.


Article and photos by Mary Zakharova




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Josh Kline: Project For a New American Century

Josh Kline’s exhibition “Project For a New American Century” is now on view in the Whitney Museum. It explores the most recent political and social issues like automation, climate change, diseases, and the consequences they can lead to. 



For me, the exhibition turned out to be controversial. Interesting ideas and art considering the topic of unemployment and other social issues Americans face, combined with pretty basic points on the danger of automation and the terrible consequences it can lead to. The ideas of a post-apocalyptic future where intelligent software takes the place of regular employers have been widely discussed for a while now, and they state the same thing: automation is dangerous, it will lead to massive unemployment and hunger, and, in the end, will destroy our society. 



At the same time, there were some new and interesting perspectives on the matter. For example, the idea of unemployment being contagious and spreading like a virus. It made me think of a wave that starts low and grows bigger and bigger, spreading across the cities. One of the exhibit's rooms shows glass virus cells with all the items employees had to bring home from their desks once fired: thermoses, family pictures, pens and pencils, and shoes. All these different items tell us that very different people get fired: men and women of different ages, races, wealth, and professions. There is no escape. Unemployment spreads like a virus and can come to your door when you least expect it. 



Another idea that I found creative was the metaphor of employees being thrown out like trash. The museum room was filled with bags of cans, bottles, and… people. All over the floor there were mannequins of men and women inside plastic bags, thrown out of their jobs like trash is thrown out of the bins. That made me wonder if big corporations actually value employees or if they are just a tool that, if not needed, is being thrown away. 



I can’t recommend “Project For a New American Century” to all audiences because most of the ideas described have already been discussed in books, magazines, and TV shows. But there definitely were interesting angles that I’ve never considered before, and if, after this article, you got curious too, the exhibition is worth exploring. And suppose you are only now getting acquainted with the idea of utopian and dystopian consequences of automation. In that case, Project For a New American Century is a great way to start the journey.



By Mary Zakharova



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Vanessa Rothe Fine Art presents: “Americans in Paris, Fashion” - April 16th to 23rd - Vanessa Rothe Fine Art Gallery

At the Salmagundi Club - 47 5th Avenue New York, NY 11003

Info at +1 (949) 280 -1555 and www.vanessarothefineart.com

The exciting Vanessa Rothe Fine Art Gallery’s fine art project, “Americans in Paris” now in its 7th year, aims to inspire today’s leading fine artists in Realism and Impressionism to follow in the footsteps of many historical masters who had traveled to Paris to be inspired by the splendors of France to find new alluring foreign subjects and themes. Inspired by the great American painters before them, such as Sargent, Whistler and Cassatt to name a few, a group of American realist and impressionist artists would travel to Paris to draw inspiration from the city of light, architecture and fine art. There they attended fine museums, examined the masters, absorbed the culture, shared ideas and painted together with the goal of reaching the next level of mastery in their work. The group studied advanced group composition in the museums, and Paris ateliers where historically so many important artists had found inspiration and formed connections before. Part of their goal is to recreate the artist comradery that exisited between Parisian artist creative groups of the past such as the Impressionists, and artist, writers such as Hemmingway and Fitzgerald, Picasso and patrons like Gertrude Stein.

Since beginning in 2015, the art project has enjoyed various trips to Paris, live workshops in Provence hosted by Workshops in France, numerous successful fine art exhibitions not only at Rothe’s gallery, but at some of the leading galleries in America and Paris such as Arcadia Contemporary, Galerie Prince de L’oeil and the Salmagundi Club in New York. They have continued to share what they learn, giving live demonstrations, inviting guest lectures on art history, and presenting new concepts and themes to the galleries and at fine art schools. They are making art history.

Artist Michelle Dunaway shares her thoughts on the art project. “ Being a part of AIP has been an incredible experience. Traveling together to Paris and Provence we’ve delved into the history of painting by studying museums works and building camaraderie plein air painting together . Exhibiting our work as a group in various shows in Paris, NY and CA has been a beautiful culmination representing our time with one another as artists while furthering our knowledge and inspiration while traveling abroad “

Derek Harrison - Crimson

This year the Americans in Paris fine art project and painters group adopts one of the gallery's annual themes: Fine Art and Fashion. For this stylish exhibition, over thirty of the leading realists and impressionists in America are currently creating new works inspired by fashion designer icons, contemporary fashions, and fashion photography for April of 2023 in New York. The exhibition will run April 16th to the 23rd, with special events on the 20th and 21st afternoon evenings. It will take place in the beautiful parlor of the Salmagundi Club at 47 on 5th avenue in Manhattan. The Americans in Paris group includes artists such as Michael Carson, Quang Ho, Adrienne Stein, Vincent Xeus, David Kassan, Derek Penix, Charles W. Mundy, J.Louis, Suchitra Bhosle, Aaron Westerberg, Jeremy Lipking, Michelle Dunaway, Scott Burdick, Susan Lyon, Kyle Stuckey, Derek Harrison, Vanessa Rothe, Jesse Powell, Joseph Lorusso, James Kroner …and many more. There are currently 32 artists in total.

“ My work “An Evening in Paris” was painted in the studio shortly after my wife and I came back from our honeymoon. This painting is about capturing the life of the city—where the hustle bustle is met with the importance of slowing down and enjoying the company of others over food and wine. I also tried to incorporate that sense of two worlds as one with the colors and lighting—the overall cooler blue tones surrounding the warmer and intimate environment of the cafe. Many parts of the painting are painted loosely and more impressionistic in order to give the eye an opportunity to rest in a busy seen.” Says artist Kyle Stuckey

Aaron Westerberg - Pink Kimono

Experience the runway in art this April, from fur coats, to the iconic Chanel and Audrey Hepburn, original paintings of Paris and the Eiffel tower by night, colorful kimono robes, ballet tutu’s, French scarves, vintage fashion photos re-created into new paintings, bold modern New York and Paris cityscapes and modern figurative works, Works will be available in their small study versions as well as large scale museum quality works. Most of the works presented for sale will be oil paintings, with a few affordable watercolor fashion sketches as well.

“Fashion and fine art go hand in hand. Design, color, rhythm and flow all stem from the same desire to create something beautiful. My painting, "Platinum" was all about movement, subtle detail and mood. Creating a piece that captures that essence is an exciting challenge that pushes me into the creative territory I thrive within. Vanessa is an exceptional director and curator, combining these art forms with an incredible roster of artists. This will be something new and exciting.” - Says artist Derek Harrison who will have three beautiful figures in the exhibition.

Collectors and artists are encouraged to attend not only for the exhibition and sale, but for the exciting array of events as well. To help convey the similarities in the design concept stage of fashion and works of fine art, the artists will be offering a live “Demo Day” sponsored by Rembrandt Royal Talens, on April 20th in the afternoon from 3:00 to 6:00pm where three of the AIP artists Michelle Dunaway, Vanessa Rothe and Aaron Westerberg will demonstrate their process and discuss sketching for fashion and alla prima painting with art supplies. The evening of the 21st, the curator Vanessa Rothe will give a beautiful one hour slide show presentation tracing the parallels and cross inspiration between fine art and fashion, over the last one hundred years. From Victorian lace and Waterhouse, to mid century modernism and the women’s suit, to today’s contemporary realism.

The exhibition will include more than fifty new fine art works in oils and watercolor, as well as exciting fashion illustration works by Taiwan fashion artist PING YU and fashion photography. In addition it will have for sale an array of bespoke leather shoes by Francis Waplinger and one of a kind clothing by Detlev, Oliver and Vanessa Rothe using vintage, kimono and contemporary hand painted silk fabrics. Detlev Rothe, the curators father, was a well known fashion designer to the stars, creating one of a kind clothing for the Rolling Stones, Jimmy Buffet, and many famed actors from the silver screen such as Chevy Chase and Michael Douglas. Rothe herself started painting on silk at a young age for the family business, and in high school she was a watercolorist, before later becoming a professional oil painter. Fashion and Fine Art have always gone hand and hand in her life. She recognized the similarities between the two, especially in the initial design and concept stage and began having fine art and fashion shows to celebrate both genres of art.

“Part of my mission when creating the Americans in Paris group was to infuse the artists of today with exciting new subjects from Paris. To create exhibits with specific themes such as art and literature, the importance of learning form the masters, French architecture etc. This years exciting Americans in Paris event celebrates the stylish theme of fashion. We discuss the similarities in the creative process of both fine art and fashion. From initial concept of a dress, or idea for a painting, to collecting research and references, creating sketches and drawings, to making the final masterpiece. For this exhibition I asked our all star cast of American artists to be inspired by haute couture, fashion photography, hats, sunglasses, jewels as well as the beautiful cities of fashion such as New York and Paris. We can’t wait to share our new creations with the pubic in New York this April.” Notes Rothe.

The Exhibition and events this year were made possible by the following sponsors: American Art Collector Magazine, Rembrandt Royal Talens, Raymar fine art Panels, Workshops in France, Steven Stern Historical California Fine Art and ARC, the Art Renewal Center for the arts.

To find out more about the seven year history of the Americans in Paris fine art project, or to view the work online, please visit vanessarothefineart.com

Vanessa Rothe Fine Art Gallery (at the Salmagundi Club) 47 5th Avenue New York, NY 10003

(949) 280 -1555 www.vanessarothefineart.com

Kyle Stuckey - One Evening In Paris

Kyle Stuckey - One Evening In Paris



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Phenomenal ensemble of American artists interprets the many facets of fashion. April 16 to 23 "Americans in Paris, Fashion" exhibition at Salmagundi Club - 5th Ave, NYC - curated by Vanessa Rothe

32 top artists, 75 new works

Vanessa Rothe's Americans in Paris fine art project adopts one of the gallery's annual themes of FINE ART and FASHION as the AIP artists create works inspired by historical fashion icons and contemporary fashion and design for SPRING of 2023 in New York at the Salmagundi Club on 5th avenue.  With over 30 of the leading and award-winning artists in contemporary realism and impressionism, and featuring original fashion illustrations by Taiwan artist PING YU. Original Artwork of Paris and the Eiffel tower by night, CoCo Chanel, colorful kimono robes, Ballet, French scarves, vintage fashion photos created into new paintings, bold modern NYC cityscapes and modern figurative works, Paris cityscapes, and more. Bespoke leather shoes by Francis Waplinger and bespoke clothing by Oliver Rothe "OD" design, Vanessa Rothe Design using vintage and contemporary fabrics. From fur coats to the iconic Chanel and Audrey Hepburn, Cityscapes of New York and Paris will also be available in large-scale and mini-study versions. Experience the runway with both fine art and fashion with the annual exhibition from April 16th to the 23rd, 2023, in the splendid Salmagundi club parlor and online from anywhere in the world.

Special lectures and demos

Thursday, April 20th, from 3-6 pm. Live demonstrations by award-winning artists Michelle Dunaway and Aaron Westerberg

Friday, April 21st, 2023, from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Slideshow lecture on the history of Fashion and Fine Art thru the ages 1900-2023 by curator artist Vanessa Rothe, ​followed by a slideshow by one of our Artists about their work and creative process.

​Learn more about the Americans in Paris artists group and fine art project or the VRFA Fine Art and Fashion Shows and History.

Sponsored by: American Art Collector Magazine, Rembrant Royal Talens, Raymar Panels, The Salmagundi Club NY, Workshops in France, Steven Stern Historical California Fine Art, and many others.

APRIL 16th - 23rd, 2023 SALMAGUNDI CLUB, 5th Avenue NEW YORK

Vanessa Rothe's Americans in Paris fine art project and painters group adopts one of the gallery's annual themes of FINE ART and FASHION as the AIP artists create all new works inspired by historical fashion icons and contemporary fashion and design for SPRING of 2023. 30 top artists, 75 new works on 5th avenue in Manhattan, New York City.

Experience the runway with both fine art and fashion with the annual exhibition live or online from anywhere in the world.  Original Artwork of New York, Paris, and the Eiffel tower, CoCo Chanel, Kimono robes, vintage fashion photos created into new paintings, bold modern figurative works, and more. Bespoke leather shoes by Francis Waplinger and bespoke clothing by Oliver Rothe with "OD" design and Vanessa Rothe Designs. The show opens in SPRING 2023 at the Salmagundi Club NYC on 5th avenue and online from anywhere in the world.

Invited Artists: J.Louis, Michael Carson, Vincent Xeus, Jeremy Lipking, Quang Ho, Adrienne Stein, C.W Mundy, Derek Penix, Suchitra Bhosle, Michelle Dunaway, Aaron Westerberg, Scott Burdick, Susan Lyon, David Kassan, Shana Levenson, Derek Harrison, James Kroner, Kyle. C.Ma, Kyle Stuckey, Vanessa Rothe, Jane Hunt, Jesse Powell, Nicolas Martin, Patricia Watwood, Julie Snyder, Ping Yu ( fashion illustrator), Hope Railey, Joseph Lorusso, Alex Tabet, Kelley Mogilka, Mason Williams, and Joseph Ralph Fraia.

About the curator Vanessa Françoise Rothe 

Fine Art, Fashion exhibitions, and Art Projects in LA, NYC, and Paris

 

Born in Hollywood, California, Vanessa Françoise Rothe grew up ​in the artists' colony of Laguna Beach, CA, the daughter to a well-known German clothing designer to the Stars, Detlev Rothe, and her French mother, Jacqueline Ricaud, a fashion model, and French translator. She would come home from school to find Ron Wood or Kenny Loggins in her living room playing guitar with her father and was soon painting on silk to make custom jackets for the Rolling Stones with their iconic lips logo. She was constantly surrounded by fine art, fashion, fabrics, books on architecture, and music... and was, like many successful creatives, already drawing and designing at a young age. From sewing on coconut shell buttons to vintage Hawaiian shirts in her father's sewing workshop to learning about vintage rugs to hand painting silk shirts and jackets, Vanessa was immersed in fine art, music, decor, and fashion from the start.

In high school, she developed her own fashion style, combining influence from her French mother and one-of-a-kind fashion pieces from her father and styled her brother to help him win best dressed. She was taught how to sew by an older seamstress in town as well as the family Vietnamese tailor Nha Quang Vu, and was soon sewing her own prom dress and later designing her own wedding gown. After gaining degrees with top honors in business, graphic design, and literature at the University of San Diego and UCI, she lived and worked in Europe for six years with her husband, working as a graphic designer and fine artist and traveling to every country, viewing and taking classes on the history of art in museums, learning about architecture, fashion history, colors, fabrics, and gaining a world of knowledge and inspiration.

While she worked as an art director and graphic designer in Southern California, Rothe began to make her own line of dresses with denim and Kimono pieces on the side. She sold her limited edition and one-of-a-kind creations online as one of the first online shopping experiences as well as to dozen retail stores such as Rebel in Fashion Island Newport Beach. When online shopping first began, she created a small business making limited edition fabric handbags they called "Bagette" with unique vintage fabrics from around the world. Her current collection includes dresses, aprons, blouses, scarves, and handbags that are mostly hand sewn by Rothe or a local seamstress.

​In addition to her degrees in business and French literature, she attended two additional years at Laguna College of Art and Design fine art school receiving deans’ list top honors. Rothe continues to work as a professional fine artist and writer/editor for art world magazines, designing bespoke and limited edition clothing and curating top international fine art exhibitions worldwide.

VANESSA ROTHE FINE ART + FASHION EXHIBITIONS and EVENTS are the results of this creative upbringing and her constant need to create, be it with paint or textiles, and her desire to bring the two mediums together. View our EVENTS page to find out when our next Fine Art and Fashion exhibition or events may take place, and join us in "The Fine Art of Life."

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Fine Art Photographer Joseph Fraia joins Sojourner Gallery in Hudson Yards, NY for its inaugural exhibit. Opening reception on February 09, 2023

New York - February 6, 2023 – New York fine art photographer Joseph Ralph Fraia is one of the artists joining the collective show ‘Sojourner,’ the inaugural juried exhibition curated by Kyoko Sato of the new Midtown location of Time Arts Gallery NYC that has its center of operations in the West Village.

The new gallery’s name is also Sojourner, and it will host its opening reception on February 9, 2023, from 6 to 8 pm.

Joseph will present the work ‘Glam Cowboy,’ his personal take on the exhibition's theme, centered on all the people who travel at, pass by, stop by, temporarily live, or cross paths in that spinning whirlpool of humanity and destinies that is New York City.

His muse in the artwork is Shinyong, a Japanese cross-dresser, performer, singer, and model who lives in Detroit but once in a while storms New York with her talent. In this artwork, she expresses the freedom of unleashed imagination that America allows, with its extremes and  excesses. Masterfully combining make-up from the kabuki theater tradition, the iconic American cowboy imagery, and the glam revolution from the City’s ‘70s club scene, the image summarizes everything that makes New York a unique place.

“I am very proud to present this work of mine, to which I have a special emotional attachment, in a new formidable art space in the heart of the new, futuristic neighborhood of Manhattan,” said Joseph when reached out for comments. 

According to Webster’s Dictionary, a sojourner is a temporary resident, a stranger, or a traveler who dwells in a place for a time.

Globalization is giving us a new dimension of space and distance. According to the last US Census, 36% of New York’s population is foreign-born, and the City’s art scene has been greatly influenced by such sojourners, who have significantly contributed to art history.

Historically, the center of art shifted from Europe to New York when preeminent artists moved West during the Second World War. The incomprehensible devastation caused by WWII triggered those sojourners to reconsider where they belonged and what belonged on their canvases. As a result, Abstract Expressionism was born: a rejection of the traditional, the rational, and the norm in exchange for an intangible expression of feeling. What world exists, or can exist, when it is no longer recognizable and doesn’t feel like yours? To stand still is not an option; one must go beyond to find new truths or create new ones.

We live in similarly challenging times. So who are the sojourners of these days? How are they manifesting their art, or what do they look like? This exhibition tries to answer that question.

Sojourners may be found in every aspect of our world and beyond, leaving as quickly as they arrive. In search of something new, they might merge with the existent or create a space in which they belong. But, ultimately, aren’t we all sojourners: we are born on Earth, we stay for a brief time, then we return to where we came from.

The Exhibition will run from February 9 through March 15, 2023

Opening reception is on February 9, 2023, from 6 to 8 pm

RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/527763112677

Located at 446 West 34th Street, 4th floor, NY, 10001

For info and inquiries, email newyork@timeartsus.com.


Artists: Andrew Chan | Arlene Rush | Chihiro ITO | China Blue | Chin Chih Yang | Ebenezer Singh | Egon Zippel | Franck Saïssi | Isolde Kille | Joseph Ayers | Joseph Fraia | Kate Fauvell | Kenji Kojima | Lilia Ziamou | Lily Kostrzwa | Loy Luo | Max Fujishima | Michele Brody | Nina Sobell | Ola Rondiak | Richard Rothenberg | Sadie Bridger | Seth Ellison | Taiyo Okamoto | Takuya Sugiyama | Tom Judd | Toshiki Hayasaka | William Evertson | Yoyo Xiao | Yuji Hamamura | Yukari Edamitsu | Zhang Lanjun | Zhang Zheyi 

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“BEYOND KING TUT: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE” DAZES AUDIENCES IN NEW YORK CITY, LOS ANGELES, AND VANCOUVER TO COMMEMORATE DISCOVERY CENTENNIAL

New Exhibition Created in Partnership with the National Geographic Society Celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the Tomb Discovery and the Wonders of Egypt


NEW YORK CITY (Nov. 4, 2022) – Marking 100 years since the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings, Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience will be open in four cities across North America, bringing the incredible story of the ancient pharaoh to life in new ways. Created in partnership with the National Geographic Society, the stunning exhibition takes visitors on a time-traveling journey flooded with sight, sound, and intrigue through the world of King Tut—the boy who reigned as pharaoh of Egypt more than 3,000 years ago—and the 1922 discovery of his tomb and treasures that has captured the imagination of the world ever since. 

 Beyond King Tut guests can explore nine galleries that chronicle the historic discovery, the king’s life and family, and a voyage to the afterlife in the following locations:

  • New York City: Pier 36 (through Jan. 1, 2023)

  • Los Angeles: Magic Box LA (through Dec. 31, 2022)

  • Washington D.C.: National Geographic Museum (through Feb. 6, 2023)

  • Canada: Vancouver Convention Center (through Jan. 8, 2023)

Beyond King Tut visitors will meet Ancient Egyptian gods like Ra and Anubis, descend into King Tut’s burial chamber, join his quest for immortality and relive the discovery of the king’s tomb with all his treasures waiting inside, reclaimed from the desert sand after 3,000 years. With nine galleries to explore on the multi-sensory, multimedia journey, guests will wind through the story of a young boy whose name still looms large and how he changed the ancient – and modern – world. This exhibition goes beyond a traditional artifact display using the power of photography and technology, ensuring that the artifacts from King Tut’s tomb remain in their country of origin.

 “The National Geographic Society has a legacy of funding projects relating to ancient and modern Egypt. As we approach the 100th anniversary of King Tut’s tomb discovery, Beyond King Tut gives visitors a chance to explore his story in ways they’ve never experienced before,” said Kathryn Keane, vice president of public programming and National Geographic Museum director for the National Geographic Society.

 Produced by Paquin Entertainment GroupBeyond King Tut is developed in association with Immersive, whose creative team draws from extensive experience creating and marketing cultural content worldwide, including the King Tut artifact exhibitions attended by more than 19 million guests. Under the creative direction of Montreal’s world-renowned Normal Studio, Beyond King Tut harnesses projection mapping and new technologies to create stunning visual environments that invite visitors to leave the modern world behind and glimpse an ancient time like never before. Beyond King Tut has aligned with The American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE), whose mission is to study and safeguard Egypt's cultural heritage, to highlight digital Egypt-related content, develop programming and promote educational outcomes.

 Exhibition guests can opt to delve deeper into the tomb discovery via an award-winning companion virtual reality (VR) experience making its North America debut in a dedicated VR theater. “Tutankhamun: Enter the Tomb” gives the feeling of flying through the underground chambers and seeing the treasures as they were when they were discovered in November 1922. The eight-minute VR journey is voiced by lauded English actor Hugh Bonneville and created by CityLights, a leader in premium VR content.

 “Beyond King Tut tells a story 3,300 years in the making, going beyond the iconic mask to bring people into his world in new ways and larger than life – guests will get to know the young boy who suddenly became pharaoh, see stunning imagery of his treasures that are now enshrined in Egypt, journey to the ancient Egyptian afterlife, and feel the thrill of discovery,” said Beyond King Tut creative producer Mark Lach.

 Ever since the sensational discovery of King Tut’s tomb 100 years ago, influences from his world have made their way into the global consciousness across art, fashion, décor, architecture, entertainment and beyond. As King Tut’s legacy continues to enthrall people around the world, guests of all ages can explore his story at Beyond King Tut as the tour continues across North America with more cities to be announced.

TICKETS & INFO

Tickets are timed and dated, and advance purchase is strongly encouraged with peak dates and times in high demand. Prices vary by location with package rates for families, seniors, students and groups. VIP Tickets include a flex ticket for anytime entry, merchandise and entry to the award-winning “Tutankhamun: Enter the Tomb” virtual reality companion experience.

Tickets & Info: www.beyondkingtut.com

Join the Conversation on Social Media:

Instagram: @beyondkingtut  / Facebook: @beyondkingtut / #beyondkingtut

About Beyond King Tut 

Covering new ground by bringing together unparalleled partners from the fields of creative artistry to exploration and conservation in Egypt, a team of cultural events industry veterans have come together with the vision to lead the evolution of immersive cultural content resulting in Beyond King Tut, produced by Paquin Entertainment Group, developed in partnership with Immersive and National Geographic Society, under the creative direction of Montreal’s Normal Studio.

About the National Geographic Society

The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, National Geographic has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas, providing more than 15,000 grants for work across all seven continents, reaching 3 million students each year through education offerings, and engaging audiences around the globe through signature experiences, stories, and content. To learn more, visit www.nationalgeographic.org or follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

About Paquin Entertainment Group

Established in 1985, Paquin Entertainment Group is a leading, full-service North American arts and entertainment company with offices operating in Winnipeg, Toronto, Vancouver, Nashville, San Diego, and Las Vegas. Paquin Entertainment Group is home to a diverse portfolio, including artist agency and management, film and television, theatrical production, brand partnership, and touring exhibitions. Since its inception, Paquin Entertainment Group’s core vision remains unchanged: to foster a creative culture that seeks and develops the world’s premier artists and productions. For more information visit paquinentertainment.com.



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ARTECHOUSE is now presenting TRUST, an immersive exhibition that explores the concept of trust

The audiovisual exhibit explains the idea of trust, and its’  changes throughout the years. The audience has a chance to look at the development of trust through historical events. What’s more, viewers can see the different predictions of the future: the one with trust, and the one without, and see how their lives would look like in both cases.  

The information about the past comes from the major historical events that shifted the understanding of the concept. Present comes from the recent events that are being recorded and processed to create the art that’s constantly changing. Finally, the future consists of the predictions that are made according to the world’s history. 

ARTECHOUSE that hosts the exhibition is an innovative art organization that creates exhibitions that combine art, science, and technology. With its multiple projectors and sound technology, viewers can dive into the exhibition and be not just an observer, but a part of it. 

The exhibition opened on January 31 and will last till May 30. This is a must-go for those who want to experience the past, present, and future in one day. TRUST is a great opportunity to get lost in the beautiful installation and change your perception of art. 

ARTECHOUSE is located at 439 W 15th street inside the Chelsea Market. 

Article by Joseph R. Fraia

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Dance Parade New York

 

On Saturday, May 21, New York City will celebrate the diversity of dance at the Dance Parade. More than 100 different dancing styles performed by more than 1000 professionals will be presented: Hip Hop, Break Dance, Cheerleading, Salsa, and Contemporary Ballet - all of these will be showcased during the parade!

The Dance Parade will start at 11:45 at 20th and Broadway and go to Tompkins Square Park. Each group of dancers will perform with their choreography for 40 seconds before two Grandstands in Astor Plaza. There will also be a couple of fun visuals parading, including a pirate ship and a rainbow unicorn. 

At the parade's finale, dancers will show curated performances on five stages. The public will also participate in dancing masterclasses and dance parties. The best part is that it’s all free! 

This year will feature the 16th edition of the Dance Parade. The first one was held in 2006 in response to the New York State Supreme Court ruling that upheld the 1926 NYC Cabaret Law. The law denied social dance as an expressive activity under the first amendment. 

Since then, the parade has been held every year. This event is a chance for the dancers to introduce their work to broader audiences, show their cultural heritage, and collaborate with other dancers. For the audience, the Dance Parade is a chance to learn more about dancing culture, fall in love with it, and maybe even start dancing themselves! 

What can be better than a sunny late spring Saturday with great music, bright costumes, and breathtaking dancing? Spend the day with lots of fun at the Dance Parade! Bring your best friends, comfortable clothing, and, of course, a great mood for the best experience of this spring! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

New Wedding Trends

 

With all the delays and cancellations of weddings during COVID-19, 2022 will be the year of the weddings. Couples who weren’t able to bring their families together and perform an in-person ceremony will finally be able to make their dream come true. According to The Wedding Report, around 2.5 million weddings will occur in the US in 2022. It is going to be the biggest wedding year since 1984.

After all the difficulties and inconveniences, couples are trying to bring back the magic for such a special occasion. And what could be more memorable than the wedding dress? So let’s look at the latest wedding dress fashion to see what we can expect from the brides and give some ideas to the brides-to-be.

The new collection at New York Bridal Fashion Week this year, held from April 4 to 8, was very empowering. The designers made the statement, “You can finally get married this year!” 

Instead of the classic white dress, designers offered brides colorful wedding gowns: pink, yellow, pick any color you like! So this year, you can fully show your personality with the wedding dress! This trend has already gone viral: a week ago, the bride appeared in a bright yellow voluminous dress at one of the New York City weddings.

That bride has definitely checked out the new trends! Voluminous dresses are the second trend of this year. In such a dress, any bride would feel like a princess. With this gown, you can get creative: voluminous skirts, ruffled hemlines, and tulle will make you look trendy and gorgeous!

For business ladies who prefer pants over dresses, there will be options for them too. Combined with a white jacket, they create an extraordinarily stylish and, at the same time, comfortable look. With so many designers presenting bridal pants this year, even the pickiest bride will find a model for herself!

Feathers are also staying with us for the wedding season, so here’s some good news for those who like this trend! If you want to try something new for a wedding dress, this is the way to go! This dress can be either the main dress or a second bride’s look. And that’s what’s perfect about it!

The lace embroidery dress will be a perfect option for the more romantic brides! Long-sleeved tulle bodices with hand-embroidered floral designs are the new classics!

Last but not least are puff sleeves. This trend came to us from 1980s weddings, but it took a different form this time. In 2022 brides choose removable puff sleeves, which, without any additional discomfort, bring volume to the dress.

The 2022 wedding collections gave us a lot of new perspectives on what a bride should look like. The next move is yours! What trend will you choose? 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Earth Day 2022

 

On Friday, April 22, articles about the Earth and the environment were everywhere in the Media. And this is not a coincidence. Starting from 1970, activists have been celebrating Earth Day annually on April 22. This year’s theme for Earth Day was “Invest in Our Planet.”

According to Google Trends, searches for “Earth Day” and “Earth Day events” have increased twice since last week. People were registering for events, like cleanups in the parks and on the beaches and tree planting. Those who didn’t have a chance to participate in person could check out conferences available on the Earth Day website about any topic they are interested in: Turning the Tide on Plastic Pollution, Fashion, and Sustainability, Youth Activism, etc. 

Some of the articles and events are oriented toward kids. Even with all the recycling marks on our cans and plastic containers, we are not sure which bin to put our trash in, what each mark means, and where the plastic we throw in recycling goes. Are we really helping the planet, or are we only made to believe we make a difference? To make sure there is no such problem with future generations, there are programs now that let children learn what sustainable living is and what they can do to actually help the planet. For example, The New York Times posted a story with a guide for kids about climate change and what can be done about it (Bad Future, Better Future). 



Teachers in schools are also encouraged to teach kids about the environment by, for example, going outside to enjoy nature, doing environmental projects, like composting or working in the garden, or giving them homework connected to the environment. 

There are also special programs for kids, including Kids & Nature. There, kids of different ages learn about wildlife gardening at home and in school, trees, and their role in wildlife. They also get access to learning outside in the fresh air. 

Environmental topics are becoming more and more essential each year, and Earth Day is not only about a small group of activists promoting an eco-lifestyle anymore. Now it’s about millions of people all over the world participating in environmental events, teaching their kids about a sustainable lifestyle, and creating programs that will help us become more eco-friendly in the near future. 

I am trying to be eco-friendly myself, but there is still a very long and sometimes hard way to go. But the more environment-oriented projects there are, the more I believe that I will achieve an eco-friendly lifestyle. The most important thing is to start. 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Welcoming Easter

 

Easter is, without a doubt, the most important Christian holiday. It’s all about bringing families together, having fun, and celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Not everyone celebrates Easter the same way, with Catholics and Orthodox having different traditions. Both are very exciting and fun, and I always waited for the day when we could finally start getting ready for Easter.  

By the way, Easter in Catholic countries is celebrated a week before the Orthodox Christian one. This year, Catholic Easter is celebrated on April 17, and Orthodox on April 24. 

But let’s get to the traditions. Catholic traditions are very well-known. I, being Orthodox and asking Americans about their Catholic traditions, realized that I knew a lot about them already. I’ve seen them in movies and cartoons, and sometimes my family even followed some of the Catholic traditions when we celebrated our Orthodox Easter. 

For example, we would get small baskets for our eggs, and bunnies would become a huge part of the Easter decorations, even though originally Orthodox Easter didn’t have that. 

But, unlike Catholics, the Orthodox don’t have egg hunts. Instead, we have egg fights, which are always hilarious! During a family dinner, we would all get a hard-boiled egg and bump it into the egg of the person next to us. The egg that gets crushed loses, and the stronger one gets to the next round and bumps into another winner. The person who beats all eggs wins. 


The Orthodox also make special Easter cakes called Kulich. It’s a tall round cake with raisins inside and glazes and sprinkles on top. Some people believe that it represents a church because of its shape. Today, people mostly buy Kulich. Because of the specific ingredients and texture of the dough, it takes around 3-4 hours to make it, which is now a luxury not many people have. 

What the Orthodox don’t have is chocolate eggs. If Catholics give chocolate eggs as gifts, especially for kids, Orthodox give real hard-boiled and colored eggs to everybody. 

Coloring eggs is another fun tradition that both Catholics and Orthodox follow. There are now hundreds of ways to color the eggs! Before, even in my childhood, my grandmother would color eggs using onion peel to give a white egg a light yellow color. Now there are special pills with the coloring inside or stickers with Easter symbols that we use to get our eggs ready for Easter. 

This Sunday, don’t forget to spend some time with your loved ones and celebrate a great holiday with your family. 

Happy Easter!  

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Cherry Blossom Season is Back

 

For years, spring in NYC has been associated with the cherry blooming season, and it’s finally here! All over the city, pink blossoms are attracting tourists and residents. According to the Parks & Recreation Department, you can find 6,700 cherry trees in the city parks, and more than 34,000 cherry trees on the streets, so you definitely can’t miss cherry blossom! 

One of the go-to destinations to enjoy the cherry blossom festival is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. There, you can walk through a fairytale-looking trail. On that side of the garden, the first trees were planted in 1921, and since then thousands of people have been able to admire the pink beauty. Two of the originally planted trees are still there, at the north end of the walk. 

And at the end of the season, you can visit the Botanic Garden to see the “pink snow” of falling petals. 
Unfortunately, because of this spring’s cold weather, not all of the cherry trees are blooming, but, those that are, look like magical pink clouds in April's gray sky.  


The great place to go to if you are in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. It’s perfect if you want to fully feel the atmosphere of Japanese cities, whose cherry blossom seasons are so famous. There, the pond is surrounded by blooming cherry trees and flowers. Narrow gravel paths will walk you around the pond with a Japanese monument and a small duck house. 

But cherry blossoms are not the only thing to see in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden! Dozens of other trees and flowers are blooming now, creating a wonderful magic atmosphere, and it is definitely worth seeing! 

If it’s your first time in the Botanic Garden, you can get a Seasonal Highlights Tour that is held Tuesday through Sunday from 1 pm to 2 pm. Such tours are held from April until June, so make sure not to miss the opportunity! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Where Does April Fools’ Day Come From?

 

March is slowly coming to an end, and we are all awaiting April. On its first day, we will be celebrating probably the most fun holiday of all - April Fools’ Day. 

We are all used to its pranks, jokes, and a good laugh at those who we were able to fool. But where is this all coming from, and how did April Fools’ Day get to be celebrated all around the world?

The most popular theory about April Fools’ Day’s origin comes from France, where in 1582 the Julian calendar was replaced by the Gregorian calendar. Since then, New Year’s Day has been moved to January 1st instead of April 1st. However, some citizens, who couldn’t get used to the new system, or lived far enough to get the news slowly, kept celebrating the New Year in spring. 

Such people started being joked about and pranked: somebody would put a paper fish on their backs, which symbolized a young fish that was easy to catch, and a gullible person.

Some historians also link April Fools’ Day to Hilaria, a festival celebrated in Ancient Rome at the end of March. There, the followers of the Cybele cult would dress up as disguises and mock citizens. 

Whatever the real story is, in the 18th century, Britain followed the April Fools’ Day tradition, and since then, it has spread all over the world. People quickly caught the funny occasion and adopted it in their own culture. 

Since then, countless jokes and pranks have been made, some funny, some mean, but always with good intentions. And the Internet, along with the new digital tools available to the masses, has added a whole new level of creativity and diffusion. People keep celebrating April Fools’ Day every year and keep coming up with new pranks to have some fun themselves and make others laugh. 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Revolutionary Skincare from Arizona: Essential Sincerity by Elli K

In a world where we can easily lose ourselves in the hustle and stress of everyday life, it is essential more than ever to take time to reconnect with our true selves. To help us do that, the revolutionary, multi-patented skincare system, Essential Sincerity by Elli K, recently launched its collection in the US. The brand’s three-part system includes Elli K Essential Sincerity from AZ Time Reverse Cream; Elli K Essential Sincerity from AZ Time Reverse Double Ampoule; and the Elli K Essential Sincerity from AZ Time Reverse Mask.

As a frequent visitor of Sedona, Arizona, Elli K discovered how natural elements found in the earth and sea contain properties that can help heal and rejuvenate our minds and bodies. Through partnering with a research lab at the University of Arizona, Elli K found a way to harness the energy and healing properties of these elements, creating a skincare system that repairs and restores damaged, aging skin - as if “reversing time.”

The three Elli K skincare products consist of four unique patented complexes with detoxifying properties made from Sedona Water and the rare Turritopsis dohrnii, also known as the “immortal jellyfish.”

Those complexes are:
AZ10-BIOME™ - designed using a special double-fermenting process that blends cactus honey, echinacea, and banana yucca with Sedona Water to provide deep moisture to the skin.
AZ4-Rx™ - formulated with the most skin-friendly fermented oils to enhance the skin’s natural protection against the external environment.
NEUROVITY™ - an anti-aging complex, the “secret” of the immortal jellyfish.
PROGELINE™ - makes the skin more elastic and smooth.

Also an accomplished musician, Elli K incorporated music into the skincare ritual as a way to also reinvigorate the spirit. The seven tracks of soothing symphonic music transport the listener on a sonic journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Arizona, while relaxing for 20 minutes after applying the Elli K Time Reverse Mask. Each track blends actual sounds of Arizona nature into the music, including the wind, birds, and flowing water. Combining both skincare and music in a relaxing multi-sensory ritual, balance is restored both inside and out.

In addition to touch and sound, the luxurious fragrance of the Elli K skincare products reinvigorates the sense of smell. Created by experts based on over a century of research in Argeville, France, the natural fragrances within the products enhance the relaxation and restoration of balance in the body.

Argeville is in compliance with environmental standards and health-conscious business ethics, which further provides Essential Sincerity by Elli K customers with a natural and nurturing way of beauty.

It’s time to rediscover the true you with Elli K.

The new Elli K EP, The Journey of a Hummingbird will also be available exclusively to Elli K customers with their purchase of the Essential Sincerity skincare system.

To check the entire line of products please visit ellikbeauty.com

For All Media Inquiries:
Beatrice Kimmel
EMPKT PR
Beatrice@empktpr.com

 

Stay Trendy!

 

As Spring becomes more vivid, it’s time to open your closets and switch all the warm jackets and sweaters to tops and skirts. 

This Spring is the best time to get naughty with the latest trend about mini skirts! After being out of style for some time, in 2022 ‘minis’ are having a comeback! Both high and low-waisted mini-skirts were presented on the runway at the last NYFW and got a lot of attention. Take, for example, the viral Miu Miu mini skirt that brought us right back to the 2000s. 

By the way, if you are a low-waist lover, this year’s trends are just for you! Not only low-waisted skirts but also low-rise jeans and pants have returned! Now, under-the-belly-button waistlines are a hit in new designers’ collections.

If you want to spice up this trend, try matching it with colorful tops (for example, lime-green, hot pink, or butter yellow, which are also a trend this year) or, if you are ready for more experiments, with triangular bras underneath a longer coat. 

If low-rise is not for you, but you still want to wear something trendy and extravagant, try feathers. You can wear them any way you like: feather sandals, dresses, open-back feathered tops - anything would do it! But in case you think that’s too much, there is still a way for you to put on some feathers. Try shirts with feathers around the wrists or the ankles.

This Spring/Summer 2022 season is the perfect chance to be outrageously sexy! Don’t miss it! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Kilts and Whiskey: How to Understand Men

 

Men are always hard to understand. What do they like? What do they really want? Why do they do something in one way, and not the other? 

One of the many questions I couldn’t find an answer for is why do they like strong drinks so much? For example, whiskey. What is so special about it? 

The word whiskey comes from the Irish uisce beatha means “water of life,” which already sounds like a reason to try it, but let’s dig deeper. 

Whiskey is one of the oldest drinks and originally comes from Ireland. It is believed that Irish monks brought the technology of distilling perfumes from their travels to southern Europe. Then they modified the technique so that the substance became drinkable. 

Irish whiskey, in comparison to Scotch whiskey, has a smoother finish. The second one is more smoky with an earthy overtone. 

So, knowing the drink's history, why is Irish whiskey so popular among men? Why do they prefer whiskey to, for example, sweet cocktails? 

My understanding is that Irish whiskey is a status drink. It’s not only about the taste but also about the vibe it gives. Choosing whiskey represents a rich man with good taste and a particular reputation. 

When I hear “whiskey,” I see a man sitting in an armchair next to the fireplace with a glass of this drink. In another hand, he is holding a cigar, and somewhere next to him is his dog sleeping on the mat. 

The picture looks exquisite! I understand why most men want to see themselves in it. I would still prefer wine or a cocktail to whiskey, but that’s only because I want to see myself in a different picture. 

Speaking of the Irish and Scottish whiskey, I was also thinking about why men wore kilts? And why do they still wear them now? 

The kilt is a knee-length men’s dress skirt. Men used to wear kilts on formal occasions and sports events. 

At first, it was a full-length garment, and men could wear the upper side as a draped over-the-shoulder cloak. Then, around the 1720s, Thomas Rawlinson, an English Quaker, invented a small (or walking) kilt. The idea was to separate the skirt from the upper part of the clothing to be easier to wear. 

Even though wearing a kilt might look strange to a modern person, it actually makes sense. A skirt makes it easier for men to move, especially considering wearing kilts during sports events. It gave them complete freedom of movement.

Wearing kilts now is, of course, not necessary. So why do men still wear them? 

I think it’s mostly a feeling of respect for your traditions and a connection to your roots. I doubt that kilts are widely spread in everyday life now. It is probably mostly worn to traditional weddings, sports games, and parades. It is also popular to wear kilts as a uniform in some traditional bars or restaurants. 

Even though wearing kilts as a uniform looks very authentic and traditional, men need to be careful about it. Historically, kilts can be worn both with or without underwear, but it is believed that the “true Scotsman” won’t wear anything under his kilt. However, there have been stories about women who, after a couple of drinks in a bar, wanted to find out if the waiter was a “true Scotsman,” and instead of asking, checked it themselves. Because of that, in 2015, a bartender of the Hootananny pub in Inverness had to abandon kilts. 

Instead of kilts, bartenders and waiters now wear Tartan shorts, which have the same pattern as kilts and are also associated with Scotland. 

Well, men are probably not that hard to understand. It only takes a little bit of imagination and researching to figure that out!

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

The Beauty of The Emeral Isle in New York

 

Celtic music is a whole of different music genres that came out of the folk music traditions of the Celtic people. It has a lot of various forms specific to each Celtic country: Irish, Scottish, Welsh, etc. 

This Sunday, March 13, New Yorkers will have a chance to learn more about the Irish branch of Celtic music with the show ‘Postcards from Ireland.’ It’s a brand new show by ‘Celtic Woman,’ a Grammy-nominated music band.

Since the band’s debut in 2005, Celtic Woman has become a cultural phenomenon, consistently releasing best-selling albums and DVDs. 

Through its music, Celtic Woman celebrates the traditions, culture, and history of Ireland while reflecting on the modern spirit of the country. 

In the 16 years of performing, they were able to touch the hearts of listeners from all over the world! 

Celtic Woman is a four-member band. The present members are Tara McNeill, Megan Walsh, Muirgen O’Mahony, and Chloë Agnew, who is one of the original members of Celtic Woman. 


The Celtic Woman’s beautiful voices and masterful command of their instruments are accompanied by Irish dancers, bagpipes, and a band playing traditional Celtic instruments, like tin whistle, bodhran, Uilleann pipes, and bouzouki. 

Now Celtic Woman is ready to charm us with their new show. Postcards from Ireland “celebrates the rich musical and cultural heritage of Ireland,” introducing the audience to the stories from the Emerald Isle. 

The show is going to take place on Sunday, March 13, in St. George Theater, 35 Hyatt Street, Staten Island. 

Make sure to buy tickets and dive into Ireland's rich history and traditions with the amazing performance of Celtic Woman.


Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

 

Influence me, NYC!

 

In today’s world, Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms. It enables us to talk to friends, show our lives and even work as a blogger. 


Bloggers, or - more appropriately - influencers, are often the first to implement fashion trends by portraying their lifestyles, so their job is to keep their audience updated and make sure that their content is regular and entertaining. 

NYC is one of the best places for these influencers! Fashion weeks, hundreds of various brands, restaurants, and fancy locations are a great environment for creativity and work.

One of the most iconic locations is in Dumbo, with its view of the Manhattan Bridge. That is a place where almost everyone made at least one picture! 

Another bridge we can’t forget is, of course, Brooklyn Bridge. Pictures in front of its arches look very fashionable and chic all year around! 

A newer location opened in NYC last October. It is ‘The Summit,’ a glass observatory atOne Vanderbilt. It features a glass elevator thatbrings you to a room 1,200 feet above the ground, all made of mirrors. That looks like a great location for any fashion blogger! Futuristic and unconventional, this is the best place to take a picture in a trendy outfit. 

Personally, my favorite location for influencers is Times Square. Always bright with all the screens, busy and loud, it gives a great New York City vibe with its energy, modernity, and progress. 

But the job of influencers doesn’t stop at just finding a brand and a good location. They need to learn how to best present the brands they collaborate with. That’s when modeling helps. As bloggers become more and more popular, they get more professional in modeling and posing. All their pictures look like the work of a professional model. 

 
 

For example, Chinese - American blogger Jessica Wang does a great job posing in front of the camera. Her pictures look fresh, and, what’s important, she is always able to show her outfit fully from the best angle. 

Another fashionista whom I found interesting is Amra Beganovich. Her pictures are done in a very different way, even color-wise, but they are definitely original! Very cozy outfits show a vibe of minimalism, comfort, and warmth. Of course, with Dumbo, SoHo, Central Park, and Manhattan streets as favorite locations! 

 

A little bit different are the works of a male influencer Francisco Lachowski. His posing is full of strength, sex, power, and masculinity. Such differences between men and women influencers are very understandable. Different fashion and different brands lead to a different vibe. 

Influencers always have to keep up with trends and make professional shots to attract their audience and present new brands. It’s hard work, which influencers learned to do very professionally! 

I, myself, am very impressed by the way they improved in the last couple of years! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photos by Joseph R. Fraia - jrfstudio.com

The cast form Russian Arts Studio and Theater in New York photographed by Joseph Fraia

Photo by Joseph Ralph Fraia

Celebrating 400th Anniversary of Moliere

 

On cold February evenings, it’s always nice to feel warmth, passion, happiness, and inclusiveness. So on Saturday, February 19, I decided to visit the Russian Arts Theater & Studio. The theater was presenting a marvelous play dedicated to the 400th anniversary of Moliere, a 17th-century French playwright. 

Aleksey Burago, a very talented Russian director, was able to create a light, funny and realistic play, representing the time Moliere lived in. The play was genuinely unforgettable between the bright costumes, tights, dresses, shoes, candlelight illuminating the whole set and the great set design made to resemble French theater! 


The play is set in a theater, where Moliere is getting ready to show the king his new play, and the audience is simultaneously watching the play and taking part in it. The theater exists simultaneously in 21st century New York and 17th century Paris. Even though the presentation is scheduled for that day, actors do not know their roles and don’t want to rehearse. So instead, they are replaying scenes from their old plays: Versailles Impromptu, The Misanthrope, Tartuffe, The Miser, and Don Juan. 


What was most exciting was that all the viewers were engaged in the play. Since the audience was, to some degree, truly part of the play, they felt like they were participating in everything that was happening along with the actors. I myself got worried that nothing was ready and I didn’t know my part! And some of the actors were entering right from the auditorium, talking to everybody on their way to the stage, which made everyone feel included. 

The cast of extremely talented and diverse actors, including Albert Baker, Michael Anne Hoffert-Cone, Luisa Menzen, Robyne Parrish, Tom Schubert, Naira Zakaryan, and Di Zhu, were able to play each of their different roles very brightly and convincingly.

Tom Schubert was exquisite in the role of Moliere! Deeply worried about his reputation, not able to coordinate the actors, he was funny and enjoyable to watch! His ability to rapidly switch between roles without missing a line can only be envied!


Di Zhu, who played Mademoiselle Molière, showed a jealous wife who doesn’t like not being heard and appreciated by her husband. She was able to make every woman think about their men and every man think twice about neglecting the woman they love. 


All of the actors had very palpable chemistry that everyone in the audience could feel from the first few minutes. They were playful, flirtatious, and charming.


Mr. Burago said that this was his goal. He wanted to create something funny and warm that would reflect Moliere’s life, work, and lifestyle. 


The director explained that the real king, who Moliere was trying to oblige, is the audience because it is only the audience who determines if the play is high quality or not.


“It’s all about people,” and people really seemed to enjoy it!


Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photos by Joseph R. Fraia - jrfstudio.com

The Year Ahead. Let’s make a plan!

 

NYC is slowly coming back to normal, and dozens of new exhibitions and festivals are being planned for 2022. Here is the short list of the most interesting events I found for you! 

  

2022 Exhibitions 

  

Sherlock Holmes in 211 Objects (till April 15) 

This exhibition, located at the Grolier Club in Lenox Hill, will feature "an unrivaled number" of Sir Conan Doyle's belongings. Among these belongings are short story manuscripts, holograph letters from Conan Doyle to friends, a book idea, a calendar note where Doyle wrote "killed Holmes" on, and a handwritten speech where the author explains the killing of Sherlock Holmes.  

  

Tomás Saraceno: Particular Matter(s) (February 11 - April 17) 

Hosted by The Shed, located in the Bloomberg Building at 545 W 30th St, “Tomás Saraceno: Particular Matter(s)" features a 95-foot-diameter installation commissioned for the exhibit called "Free the Air: How to hear the universe in a spider/web.” The exhibition will fill the soaring 17,000-square-foot space and will emit vibrations from the movement of particles in the air and a spider’s entangled webs.” 

  

TRUST (January 31 - May 30) 

TRUST is a data-driven immersive exhibition, created via a collaboration between ARTECHOUSE, the host of the exhibition, and fuse*. fuse* is a multidisciplinary art studio engaging with technology to understand the complexity of human interaction. In the exhibition, fuse* is exploring and giving its interpretation of the concept of trust. The event is held in ARTECHOUSE NYC, located at 439 W 15th St. 

  

Louise Bourgeois: Paintings (April 12 - August 7) 

This exhibition, hosted by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, presents paintings produced by Louise Bourgeois, a French-American artist, between her arrival in New York in 1938 and her turn to sculpture in the 1940s. The Met describes the exhibit as the first comprehensive exhibition of the artist’s paintings, which established the motifs that defined her later work as a sculptor. 

  

Virgil Abloh “Figures Of Speech” (July 1 - January 29, 2023) 

This exhibition presents the work of Virgil Abloh, late visionary artist and designer. The guests will see how his work reshaped the way we understand the role of fashion, art, design, and music in contemporary culture. The exhibition will be held in the Brooklyn Museum.  

  

NYC X Design (May 10-20) 

NYCxDESIGN is a non-profit organization that is “committed to empowering and promoting the city’s diverse creative community.” Starting from May 10 and until May 20, you will be able to take part in the tenth anniversary NYCxDesign Festival with group exhibitions, public installations, and open studios.  

  

The Orchid Show in NYC guide (through May 1) 

“The Orchid Show: Jeff Leatham’s Kaleidoscope” returns to NYC this year, after the display was interrupted by Covid in 2020. The New York Botanical Garden’s Enid A. Haupt conservatory will be transformed into a kaleidoscope of hypnotic floral designs, under the direction of American designer Jeff Leatham. 

2022 Fashion Events 

In America: An Anthology of Fashion (May 7 - September 5) 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is presenting the second part of the exhibition, which explores fashion of the United States, In America: An Anthology of Fashion. According to the MET, the exhibition “will highlight sartorial narratives that relate to the complex and layered histories of the American Wing period rooms.” 

 

Kimono Style. The John C. Weber Collection (June 7 - February 20, 2023) 

This exhibition will show the kimono styles from the late Edo period (1615–1868) through the early 20th century when the kimono was adapted to the lifestyle of Japanese women. The exhibition will feature works of John C. Weber Collection of Japanese art that explores “the mutual artistic exchanges between the kimono and Western fashion, as well as highlights from The Costume Institute’s collection.” 

  

The Color Black in History and Fashion (March 23) 

Throughout the centuries, the color black has adorned princes and priests, rebels and renegades, and artists and intellectuals. Prominent in fashion today, Black has carried myriad meanings and messages as the color was associated with various individuals and groups. On the evening of March 23rd, at the National Arts Club, art historian Carmela Spinelli will explore the rich history behind the color Black, and how it came to hold such a special place in fashion. 

  

Leah McSweeney: Chaos Theory (April 5) 

Leah McSweeney, a fashion designer and Real Housewives of New York City star will present her debut memoir Chaos Theory: Finding Meaning in the Madness, One Bad Decision at a Time. The event is going to happen in The Strand Book Store's 3rd floor Rare Book Room at 828 Broadway on 12th Street. 

  

Bonnet Bash “A Feast For The Eyes” (April 8) 

Hosted by the National Arts Club, the Bonnet Bash showcases a plethora of extravagant headwear. Designers including Sarah Sparkles and Darrell Thorne will take part. Visitors can create their own hat and bring it to potentially win one of many prizes.   

  

NYFW Bridal April (April 6 - April 8) 

  

New York Fashion Week (September 9 - September 14) 

Film Festivals 2022 

Tribeca Film Festival (June 8 - 19) 

New York International Children’s Film Festival (March 4 - March 13) 

The New York International Children’s Film Festival is the biggest festival in the country for kids' movies and animation. It includes new screenings, short film programs, information sessions with the creators, workshops and other special events throughout the celebration.  

  

NYC Independent Film Festival (June 12 - June 19) 

The NYC Independent Film Festival is an annual event displaying the best independent cinematography. It introduces the public to movies made by local NYC directors, as well as to a variety of foreign films.  

  

Big Apple Film Festival (May 23 - May 27) 

Big Apple is a film festival that is focused on showing movies from the NYC independent film community. It also showcases a limited number of selected films across the United States and other countries. 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photo by Unsplash

Crazy Rich Super Bowl

 

The Super Bowl is back, and Americans are ready to party. This year marks the 56th anniversary of the NFL Championship, with the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals fighting for the victory. 

While most people will party in their backyards or at their neighbor's bar with beer and nachos, few will throw expensive and luxurious parties in their mansions. 

Rob Gronkowski, the famous football player, is in for a big party this year. He is inviting one of his fans and up to 15 of his friends to his house, where they will be able to watch a game, drink, and celebrate. In an interview with FOX Business, Gronkowski said, that the party is going to be “epic,” with mini-golf and a bounce house planned. 

Bloomberg and Neiman Marcus are also hosting a party in the famous Goldstein Manson in Los Angeles with its pool, outdoor terrace, and club area. The house has already been used for various film and music video shoots, and this year it’s opening its doors for the Super Bowl fans. 

But probably the most expensive celebration will be thrown by Playboy, with the price of the tickets varying from $1,250 to just get inside to $25,000 for a VIP ticket with drinks and a personal table included. So if you are looking for a luxurious Super Bowl party, and you’re willing to pay a pretty penny, this one is for you. 

As a person who has never celebrated the Super Bowl before, I was amazed by how big the parties can get. For me, though, it’s going to be a small one: at home with some friends watching the game but also waiting for the Halftime Show which this year is dedicated to hip-hop culture with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar performing. 

I think that’s a good way to start!

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photos by Joseph R. Fraia - jrfstudio.com

Cam Vidal photographed by @adelaidechantilly

Cam Vidal - The Rhythm of Life pounding the strings of her Bass.

 

I am on my way to the ‘Grey Dog,’ the iconic hipster homey cafe destination for many of the nearby NYU students, and, as I walk through Union Square, I see the humanity of New York City attempting to regain a sense of normality in days that are still complex and uncertain in many different ways.

Nevertheless, if there is a quality that unifies all New Yorkers, that is undisputedly resilience. The City is the renowned most challenging boot camp for the daily grind and hustle you can find in the world. But, notoriously, it is also the place where you can find an unexpected oasis of tranquillity and relaxation, and maybe that is, indeed, a self-defense mechanism for a population otherwise always inevitably on edge.

I know I will have my moment of relax and chill because I am about to meet songwriter, musician, and performer Camille (Cam) Vidal.

She greets me with her bright and sincere smile and the adorable way she pronounces my name with her French accent: Joséf.

As we sit at our table, Cam tells me how happy and enthusiastic she is to be in New York, the city she envisioned herself in since she was a little girl, passionate about music and adventure.

And so, carried by her electric positivity, I asked her what she loves so much about being a musician in New York. 

The reason - she says - is that she gets to play with so many incredible artists, different for background, style, and skills, and in so many different contexts and venues, each one with their distinctive audience and aficionados, always competent and passionate.

Jam Sessions are another incredible plus of living in New York as an artist, she points out, because they give a musician the opportunity to continuously train and engage with an astonishing variety of performers and styles.

In such an environment, she feels like a kid in a candy store, immersed in a dream world where she can learn, exchange and grow as a person and as an artist.

Something that really surprised and impressed her positively has been the inclusiveness and support that fellow musicians and performers provide to each other in New York. She stressed out that on and off the stage, she receives waves of inputs, tips, and feedback always with a smile and sincere appreciation, especially from musicians older or more experienced than her, something that has allowed her to improve in so many areas and so much faster.

We are already 20 minutes into our conversation, and Cam and I realize that the waitress is waiting for us to place our order. So, after exchanging an accomplice and silly glance at each other, we hide behind our menus and swiftly order two drinks.

As we laugh about our childish mix of guilt and fun, I ask Camille about her first steps into music and what brought her into that world.

She recounts starting as early as six years old, with an initial interest in acoustic guitar. Everything looked really good until she was diagnosed with severe scoliosis and underwent surgery. The outcome was positive, but the consequent pain and especially the rehabilitation process turned out to be longer and more challenging than she thought, to the point that Camille even considered altogether dropping studying and practicing music.

That is when who stepped in was her father, a professional drummer himself. His familiarity with music, especially rhythm and coordination, pushed him to inspire and convince Camille to continue, switching from guitar to bass on the conviction that the latter is the backbone of any real band. As a result, she could strengthen her spine in learning to become the load-bearing pillar of fellow musicians.

Cam embraced the challenge and didn’t regret it. Not only did she continue her studies at the local municipal school but she was also babysitting to pay for her bills. In addition, she formed a close and special relationship with two of the kids she was looking after. They even went on a tour in France, reaching national notoriety and publishing an album.

Music at that point was Cam’s life, and she enrolled at the local jazz school: another challenging path she undertook and overcame, graduating after five years at the age of only 22 years old and publishing a pop EP in the process.

Understandably, Cam’s talent and passion were bigger than just the borders of France, so she decided to learn English and move to New York City back in 2018. Since then, she says her experience and growth have been invaluable.

At this point, I am really impressed by Cam’s spontaneity and simplicity with which she describes such an incredible journey at such a young age. And so, I want to know more about her, especially about her creative process. Her answer yet again surprised me.

It turns out that she is entirely autonomous and independent when it comes to composing her music. She started at a young age and doesn’t just write her bass lines, but the ones of all the other instruments: drums, guitar, and keyboards. She sings too. So, composer, songwriter, and singer. Amazing!

Now, as for many artists, Cam says that also for her the creative process rather than conscious is more a compulsive one. But what is peculiar about her, is how she has obviated satisfying her creative urge: using the Garage Band app on her iPhone.

That allows her to create and compose wherever she is. She tells me that, ear pods on, whenever she feels inspired she opens her phone and writes tracks, bases, and lyrics. On the subway, chilling in a park, on the commute to work, or just sitting at home. She can’t explain where the creative impulse comes from, but she knows she can’t resist it and enjoys how the process unfolds. 

One of her main inspirations is American composer, record producer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist Marcus Miller. She aspires to be musically polyvalent and to be able to let the choral component of her songs shine, jumping from jazz and R’n’B to pop and funk, keeping voice and instruments a unison.

All that sounded amazing to me, that’s why I was super happy to hear from Cam that, soon, she will publish her first album as a mature artist, a project that for her - she tells me - is very personal and very important because it is going to embody who she is and what her vision represents. It’s going to be a work to inspire people to be and feel proud about themselves, but also a testimony of the importance of living by example, like she is doing, being independent, not fearful, and without taboos.

Almost two hours went by in a snap, and I didn’t realize how long we had been talking. 

Cam and I finished our drinks a long time ago, and we can see our waitress squinching her eyes towards us, and we understood it was time for us to leave the table to somebody else. Not before hearing from Cam that her album will be in production during this year and the release is scheduled for the end of 2022. Until then she will keep performing in NYC with a lot of bands, so follow her on Instagram @camvidal to stay posted. I know I will do and can’t wait to see her performing live. 

Damn’, I love New York so much.

Article by Joseph Ralph Fraia - jrfstudio.com

Photo Credit @adelaidechantilly

OUT NOW! New Award-winning Independent Film

THE REUNION available on major North American VOD Platforms

 

New Award-winning Independent Film THE REUNIONavailable on major North American VOD Platforms 

CLICK TO ORDER ON iTUNES 

Starring: Dave Rosenberg, Andrea Modica, Dinh James Doan and Cara Ronzetti 

With Special Appearances by:  Drama Desk Award-winning actor Austin Pendleton and Actor/Comedian Jim Norton

 

(Los Angeles, CA - February 1, 2022)  

Today, the award-winning spiritual thriller film, The Reunion, hits all major VOD platforms in North America. The film, which won Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Feature Film at film festivals last year, is available now on North American VOD (Comcast, Spectrum, Altice), iVOD  (iTunes, Prime Video, ROKU, Apple TV) and Home Video distribution platforms (DVD, Blu-ray). For a full list of where to purchase the film, view here.  

 

Film Threat calls The Reunion “a gorgeous film to look at from start to finish" with "awe-inspiring cinematography" and "great storytelling." 

Film Daily says “the film carries a poignant balance of self-deprecation within self-realization.” 

Behind the Rabbit Productions says “the film was shot guerilla-style in 16 days, but you would never know it. It looks like a much bigger-budget feature, and the music and editing contribute to the professional feel of the film.” 

 

The Reunion first premiered at the 2021 Julien Dubuque International Film Festival in Iowa and has been presented at three other film festivals in New York. The film has garnered four awards so far, including Best Picture and Best Actor at the SOHO International Film Festival as well as Best Feature Film and Best Director at the Nyack Film Festival last fall. Nyack Film Festival Director Richard Quinn calls the film " a spiritual thriller” that “digs deeply into the center of psychological and philosophical tension.” 

The Reunion is based on the real-life traumatic childhood experience of Dave Rosenberg, the film’s writer and producer who also stars as the protagonist, Ricky Reilly. Ricky, a former actor who is seeking spiritual fulfillment, suddenly has his life turned upside down when he runs into his childhood bully. Seeing his old nemesis reawakens memories and emotions that compel Ricky to finally face his greatest fear in order to discover a new definition of manhood. 

The film also stars Andrea Modica, Dinh James Doan, and Cara Ronzetti, with special appearances by Drama Desk Award-winning actor Austin Pendleton and Actor/Comedian Jim Norton.

The Reunion is out now on iTunes on all other major VOD, iVOD and Home Video platforms, listed here 

 

Gravitas Ventures is the film’s exclusive North American distributor. The partnership was negotiated by Megan Huggins of Gravitas Ventures and DJ Dodd of Future Proof Films on behalf of the filmmakers. 

 

For all press inquiries, contact Beatrice Kimmel at beatrice@empktpr.com or at 917-848-0919. 

 

MORE ABOUT THE FILM 

The Reunion is a passion project created over two decades by Rosenberg with his friends and colleagues, Andrea Modica and Dinh Doan. The film follows in the footsteps of similar films born by brotherhood, such as Swingers, Good Will Hunting and BlindspottingThe Reunion illuminates New York City in the way movies like Annie Hall, Manhattan and Taxi Driver did in the 1970s. The film is the product of nearly 100 dedicated filmmakers, collaborating on the East Coast and West Coast, on a very low budget, with all the creativity, talent, grit and determination of a Scorsese film.  

 

ABOUT GRAVITAS VENTURES 

Gravitas Ventures is a worldwide film distributor that connects filmmakers and producers with a global audience of over a billion people. As an all-rights distributor, Gravitas has hundreds of relationships with movie theatres and across home entertainment including VOD, DVD and television. Gravitas was one of the first companies to develop a global network of digital media partners across transactional video on demand (VOD), premium video on demand (PVOD), subscription video on demand (SVOD), and ad-sponsored video on demand (AVOD). For more information:  https://gravitasventures.com/  

 

The Reunion is available on major VOD platforms (find full listing below): 

https://www.thereunionfilm.com/  

 

For More Information: 

https://www.thereunionfilm.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/the.reunion.film.nyc/  

  

For All Media Inquiries:  Beatrice Kimmel / Beatrice@empktpr.com / 917-848-0919 

Meet Annie Nguyen, the seven years old Vietnamese girl from Houston with a dream to conquer NYFW runways

 

I had the pleasure to meet Annie, a seven-year-old model in Houston, at her first catwalk in December 2020 at one of the first children's fashion shows in the Greater Houston area.

Annie looks like an angel: slender body, silky long thick black hair, and big double-lid almond-shaped eyes, the unique features of the Southeast Asian ladies and young girls.

Annie was timid at first when she met me. But after just a few minutes, when she started to get to know me, she offered to sing and dance a traditional Vietnamese song for me, and I was so impressed.

When I told her that she was pretty, she smiled brightly and said it was because she looked like her father, Linh Nguyen.

We have kept in touch ever since; her talent and innocence really touched me.

I learned that she has two older brothers, one of whom was born with diabetes at birth. Even though she is just a little girl, she helps her parents take care of the sick brother and keep the house tidy.

This NYFW Feb 2022, Annie and her mom will be in New York City for the first time for Annie to participate in fashion shows for children.

We can't wait to see Annie, the Vietnamese Texan girl, shining on the runway in Big Apple.

Photos by Nguyen Family

Chuck’s Vintage

A Luxurious Legacy in Denim

 

A new luxurious flagship retail outlet is opening in Manhattan, and this is the place for those with a taste for fashion to get their fix. Chuck’s Vintage, an iconic brand renowned among celebrity elite and fashion enthusiasts alike, is saying goodbye to LA and hello to New York City.

Steve Jobs, Robert Plant, Morrisey, Alexa Chung, and - according to The SPIN OFF magazine - "every starlet in-between” were among the first customers in the original LA’s Melrose Place store, opened in 2006, by founder and iconic supermodel Madeline Cammarata.

The opening of the new flagship will be to celebrate the memory of Cammarata, who tragically passed away less than a year ago. She began her fashion journey as a model after being discovered by legendary photographer Helmut Newton. Her love for vintage clothing grew throughout her illustrious career, having once sold a famed pair of jeans for one million dollars (the most expensive pair ever sold!). She additionally provided fabric development for renowned clothing brands, including 7 For All Mankind.

James DiPrima, president of Chuck’s Vintage, said in a recent interview “this is our way of not only keeping Madeline’s legacy alive but also growing the brand that she grew from the ground up and made into a sensation worldwide. I and everyone who knew and worked with Madeline, want to share her passion and innovation with everyone.”

Chuck's specializes in securing denim apparel. Its blue jean pieces range from Strongholds found in the California Gold Rush mines to World War II-Era Levi's, Lees, and Wranglers, as well as 1960's ladies high-waisted and groovy deadstock Levi's bells.

Customers can also purchase vintage American workwear, including rugged military and work boots, buttery leather bomber jackets, and soft, perfectly worn-in vintage 70's rocker tees.

Despite some hurdles in her last years she continued to thrive, and grow Chuck’s Vintage into the enigmatic store it has become. Her love for New York City was the inspiration for her husband Vincent to open this flagship in Manhattan. ”My husband Vincent has never left my side, not even as we have traveled all across the country and been to every doctor,” Madeline told Social Life in 2018. “This man has loved me unconditionally. My life, to me, is a real love story, and I don’t think it’s something that other people have experienced the way I have.”

Nothing Haunts Us Like the Vintage We Didn’t Buy.

Learn more:

Website: www.chucksvintage.com

Instagram: @chucksvintageoriginal

Sonali Raman presents her new collection ‘Summer Sorbet’ during NYFW 2021 at The Rooftop of Selina Hotel, Chelsea - NYC

 

In the luxurious and exotic ambient of ‘The Rooftop’ at Selina Hotel in Chelsea, New York, designer Sonali Raman presented yesterday, September 8, her ‘Summer Sorbet’ Collection during the event organized by ‘Shop Local Designers’ in collaboration with the PR agency Find Your ID NYC. Press and Media coverage was provided by the team of the international lifestyle magazine Livein and JRF Studio.

The creations presented on the runway are a fine selection of jewelry and dresses that stand out for their vibrant colors, pastel notes, and very original patterns, ideal for women who want to feel beautiful and comfortable.

The new collection is extremely versatile and fresh, offering perfect solutions as loungewear, resort wear, and practical but fancy apparel to run everyday errands. 

Wearing Sonali’s creations is not only a choice for style but one for a different increasingly supported approach to fashion that pays attention to the sustainability of the materials and the ethical nature of its sources.

Sonali’s dresses and jewelry are made with exceptional care for the selection of the fabrics, all-natural, and the assurance of fair work conditions for the expert artisans who make those creations possible.

The show at Selina Hotel, Chelsea, was blessed with a beautiful day that exhibited an evocative, warm sunset right when the models came out on the runway, and a soft breeze added an exotic, magical vibe to an experience that was welcomed with awe by an audience captivated by the perfection of the moment.

Sonali Raman is already based in New York and present in the U.S. as a member of the Shop Local Designers’ Collective of designers and creatives centered around the homonymous platform shoplocaldesigners.com and its brand representative program, which has allowed her an immediate and pervasive introduction in several fashion events and pop-ups in iconic locations in New York City and Long Island.

The designs presented on the runway will be already available to customers at the sustainable fashion pop-up event on Sunday, September 12, at Idealglass Studio in the heart of the West Village. An excellent opportunity to add Sonali’s creations to your wardrobe and jewelry box.  

For more info, visit shoplocaldesigners.com and follow us on Instagram @shoplocaldesigners.

Article and photos by Joseph Fraia - jrfstudio.com - Instagram @jrfstudio  

Featured Models: Sarah Neides, Cheyenne Borden-Brunet, Yuki Fan, Sybelle Gaubert, Zunaira Khan, Alexandra VanHoesen, Maxine Hoover, Angelico Osterburg,

The Fashionista Professor of New York City: Dr. Ngoc Cindy Pham

 

Interview and article by Joseph Ralph Fraia

On Saturday, I had the pleasure to interview Dr. Ngoc Cindy Pham, Brooklyn College marketing professor at the luxury Ideal Glass studio in West Village—Manhattan. At the time of this interview, both Dr. Pham and Imani Jones, CEO of Find Your ID NYC (a global talent agency), were auditioning models for the upcoming New York fashion week (NYFW). Dr. Pham was always professional and fashionable. She dressed in a trendy pink suit with the designer slingback heels and the latest collection of Gucci wallets. Before I sat down with Dr. Pham, the first impression she gave me was a welcoming smile and a handshake. Dr. Pham greeted me with her native Vietnamese name, “Ngoc” (K-n-o-c). She told me that “Ngoc” means “Emerald” in her native language (Vietnamese). During the interview, Dr. Pham discussed with me the latest trends in the fashion industry, how she was involved in the New York fashion week, and how she could apply her academic and professional knowledge to the fashion industry. But also how marketing could be taught and learned with hands-on experience, how she coached her students to take on any opportunities that are good for their career, and how she settled down in her new hometown NYC.

One of Dr. Pham’s students, Johnny Desius, senior Brooklyn College student in Finance, was at the casting site for New York fashion week models. He was quite interested in being on stage to be a model and was encouraged by Dr. Pham to take this rare audition opportunity. He had been working hard and practicing for modeling. Johnny told me, “I have been waiting for this casting opportunity for two years. I read the announcement for a model audition on International Business Association (IBA) club social media, which was made by Dr. Pham when she was on sabbatical. I first walked for a fashion show in October 2019 at the Halloween Music and Fashion at Brooklyn College. Professor Pham and her IBA student club collaborated with the NYFW designers to bring out artists to perform for free for students on campus. After that, I realized my love and passion for being a runway model. I have been practicing since then. ” Due to his hard work, practicing, and Dr. Pham’s encouragement, Johnny was getting 10 out of 10 from all the judges and selected to be one of the models for Find Your ID NYC (FYIDNYC) runway this NYFW.

Derek Rosenberger, 20 years old, Pace university student, and LGBT+ community member, was another model inspired, motivated, and coached by Dr. Pham to participate in this casting call. He said, “Dr. Pham is the daily ‘gymmer’ at the Equinox-Downtown Brooklyn where I am working at the front desk. She inspires me to be a professional model. So when this opportunity came up, she informed me immediately. It is wonderful to see someone seriously want the best for me and recognize my talent.”

I also met Samantha Chan at the casting site, 25 years old, a freelance stylist and interior designer, and a Brooklyn College 2018 alumna. She told me, “I have known Dr. Pham for almost three years. I took her marketing classes in my final year. I was the lead model at the NYFW in September 2018. She inspired us to follow our passion for fashion. She shared her connections in the fashion industry with us. She always dressed well to give lectures and update us with the latest fashion trends.”

I asked Dr. Pham, “what are the things you appreciate the most in NYC?” She said, “I appreciate the Brooklyn College working environment and the various opportunities NYC can offer. My colleagues are very supportive. I lived in Texas for ten years before moving to New York. The first time I arrived at the Brooklyn College campus, they provided guidance on which kind of winter jacket I should buy to survive the New York City winter. Students are very eager to learn and inspired to be the best. Many of them are first-generation college students, so the degrees from Brooklyn College will help them change their future. New York City is the capital of the fashion world. If the students are interested in fashion, they are definitely in the right place. They just need to catch the opportunities.”

One of the opportunities Dr. Pham caught is being an event-organizing volunteer to serve the Office of Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams starting this September. She said, “I have been blessed with the kindness of the people in New York City. I am a resident of Midwood, Brooklyn. My neighbors are supportive. I want to return the favor. This is my culture. I see my future in New York City. I would like to help grow my beloved city, my new hometown. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.”

The Man of Style

 

Aleksander Janik is a man of style and of sophisticated mannerisms that seems to come from another era. Always impeccably dressed and styled, he walks through the New York jet set and celebrity scene with wit, knowledge, humor, and – of course – the right dose of pungent sarcasm that distinguishes all New Yorkers. Someone would say, and it would be right, that he is a true gentleman, in the most iconic and fashionable way you can imagine.

After all, he is one of the most renowned and respected fashion consultants and stylists in New York.

With a mile-long list of American and International celebrities, personalities, and jet setters who want to work with him, Aleksander has a unique talent in educating and sharing with people the best New York has to offer and the A-list destinations for luxury and exclusive lifestyle.

His profession has to match the highest standards in the industry and, if on the surface his job seems to be attending VIP parties and top boutiques and venues, in reality, it is a business where there isn’t room for the smallest oversight or inattention: at stake, there is the reputation and career of celebrities and personalities for whom their personal branding is worth millions, sometimes billions of dollars.

But when Aleksander is not at work, he is a very private and discreet man, one who values quality time with family and friends. And above all, the informal occasions show his genuine curiosity and attention for people from all backgrounds, ranks, and places.

The only reason I was able to convince him to do the editorial featured in this issue is because of our personal friendship and my desire to have him receiving the appreciation he deserves for his work ethic and his remarkable achievements.

He is very proud of being the embodiment of the American Dream: he is the son of Polish immigrants who came to the States, like many others, with very few resources but a strong determination to succeed.

Determination and perseverance, along with kindness and honesty, are the qualities he constantly highlights to be the most important ones that everybody should aim to, especially in their professional career.

In this editorial, I had the privilege of shooting personally the photos we feature in this issue. I wanted everybody to see how Aleksander is an authentic testimony of the values he promotes.

After all, his declared goal is to have his clients feeling beautiful, confident, and great in expressing their personalities through an original and personal style. And he is the ‘Man of Style.’

Article and pictures: Joseph Ralph Fraia @jrfstudio - jrfstudio.com

Location: Salmagundi Club, NYC

Naurah USA presents her new collection in New York at the Norwood 

 

New York-based designer Ayesha Khanna presented last April 21st, 2021, the new collection of her brand Naurah USA at the exclusive Club the Norwood in the heart of Downtown Manhattan on the occasion of the event organized by Pynk NYC in collaboration with Shop Local Designers. 

The fashion show took place in the iconic ‘Red Room,’ in the historic mansion home of the prestigious club founded by Alan Linn, and featured the elegant, high-fashion creations of Naurah USA, sophisticated gowns with a perfect mix of exotic ethnic style and edgy urban character. 

Stunning colors, elaborated embroideries, and distinctive designs exalt the appealing femininity of these dresses. 

The show was the perfect acme of an event dedicated to celebrating women in fashion and in business, the very mission of Pynk NYC, the organization founded by Creative Director Imani Jones, that partnered up with the digital platform ShopLocalDesigners.com to add to the protagonists of the night even more local creators. 

Over the four floors of the egregious mansion, the enthusiastic attendees had the chance to discover fashion designers, jewelry designers, artists, dancers, performers while enjoying the jam session lead by the band Hoox and the Afrikanos. 

The event was rewarded by overwhelming success, marked by the appreciation shown by the members of the club and the numerous guest who bought their tickets to access the highly selective venue. 

It was great to see New York City shine again as the capital of fashion and entertainment after such a challenging year and to find that die-hard Newyorkers have kept intact their love for everything makes the Big Apple such a special place to be in. 

Livein Magazine is the proud media partner of the event and will feature a full reportage of the event in the next issues of both its local and international editions. 

Article and photos by Joseph Fraia @jrfstudio 

Interview with Quach Thai Cong: Mr. Elegant

 

Interview and article by Ngoc Cindy Pham, MBA, PhD

What makes Mr. Thai Cong so successful in interior design?

I have the distinct honor to sit down with Mr. Quach Thai Cong, the magician of interior design. He is called "Mr. Elegant" for his sophisticated taste of fashion and lifestyle, which has influenced millions of Vietnamese, especially the young generations. Mr. Thai Cong's fashion taste is considered standard for gentlemen in a professional environment, not even talking about upscale society. The praise of his home decoration and lifestyle reaches the top level of being aesthetic and comfortable. In addition, Thai Cong has a successful YouTube channel with more than 400,000 followers, where he shares his daily life. Both Thai Cong and his boyfriend are advocates for the LGBT community in Vietnam, where the idea of homosexuality is still a new concept, not to mention that "coming out" publicly to family members, friends, and at the workplace is taboo. Mr. Thai Cong was born in Saigon, Vietnam. He and his family went to Germany in 1981, when he was nine years old. He speaks German, English, and Vietnamese. Thai Cong was raised in a traditional Vietnamese culture, and his design is uniquely oriental.

I myself am a Vietnamese American, born in Nha Trang, Vietnam. I have visited many countries such as Singapore, Australia and chose to reside in the USA for the last 13 years. I called NYC my home and became a college business professor three years ago at the City University of New York. I am also the Director of Marketing for New York Fashion Week – X Change Fashion Show. From my personal experience, I can say that Thai Cong's taste in fashion and interior design conforms to the international standard with a distinguished oriental twist.

It was a great pleasure sitting down with Mr. Thai Cong on a warm Tuesday morning in the lobby of Plaza Hotel in midtown Manhattan. He and his partner, Mr. Huy Yves, still under jetlag from the longest flight of 18 hours from Singapore to NYC, was well-dressed as always for our interview at 11 am. Mr. Thai Cong was in his dark blue plaid suits, the matching blue tie with baby pink hearts, and the high blue socks. Everything is perfect down to each detail. Cologne is just enough to let people around him enjoy the scent at a pleasant level. Everything with Thai Cong is perfect, at the right amount. I can describe: "If a little bit less, we feel something missing. If a bit more, it is no longer that exciting."

During the interview, Mr. Thai Cong shared with me his secret of elegance. He told me that he lives up to the standards that he teaches. He lives in a luxury home with the elegant lifestyle that he has created for his clients. When he travels, he only stays at top-notch hotels. For example, in the Plaza Hotel, where I met him for the interview, several Baccarat chandeliers are in the lobby areas. Lady Gaga once enjoyed her stay at this Plaza hotel so much that she posted several photos in her glamorous outfits from this location. Thai Cong explains: "In order to create a luxury living setting for my clients, I have to live in one. Otherwise, how can they trust my taste and expertise? Everything I have created for my clients, I myself experience, live in, such a pleasant environment. I am using tens of thousands of dollars tables, chandeliers, hundreds of dollars wine glasses at home. They are the same ones I am selling at my showroom."

Mr. Thai Cong was majored in fashion design at first. Later his talent was recognized when the clients visited his studio. They were so impressed by the elegance, beauty, and uniqueness of his furniture and decors and offered to buy them from Mr. Thai Cong. Afterward, the clients invited him to decorate their homes. From one customer to another, Mr. Thai Cong has grown the business by word of mouth. The clients happily shared Thai Cong's expertise with their friends and family. During the interview, Thai Cong was laughing when he was talking about the journey of becoming an interior designer. It is absolutely fateful!

Mr. Thai Cong is humble and charming. When I was interviewing him in Vietnamese, along with my co-host, Miss Imani Jones, the founder, and CEO of Find Your ID NYC interviewing him in English, he made many jokes. One thing I really appreciated was that - out of all the VIPs I have interviewed in the past two years - he is one of the few ones who did not want the questions ahead of time. In fact, when I offered him the question list fifteen minutes before the interview, he sent it back immediately with a smile and said, "Surprise me!"

His clients are in the top 1% in Vietnam. The contracts start from 500,000 USD. His most recent project is worth more than 5 million USD, just for interior design. He is trusted by many people. Bringing the luxury lifestyle in interior design to the emerging Vietnam market, his homeland, is profitable and at the right time.

Published by Livein Chief Editor Joseph r. Fraia

Life of an Influencer

 

This month we have the pleasure to get to know one of our favorite New York Influencers, Jillian, who reached popularity through her Instagram profile @queengotham, where she shares her lifestyle and her favorite products with a distinctive glossy and natural style.

In Pop Culture and in our society being an influencer went from a casual hobby just few years ago to become nowadays a multi-million industry with star-level personalities who are among the most popular celebrities on the planet: Chiara Ferragni, Charlie D’Amelio and … just to name a few.

In this editorial, I spent a day with Jillian during her routine in promoting the brands that she always very carefully selects, and it was really impressive the attention to detail and the professionalism that she puts in place to make sure that each brand gets appropriately and effectively portraited and promoted.

I was curious to learn directly from her what convinced her to do this editorial for traditional media when her presence is mostly digital and in particular on Instagram. And Jillian answered in her typical direct and genuine manner.

I am grateful to the opportunity Livein Magazine has given to me with this editorial so I can draw attention to some of the brands I’ve worked with in different capacities as an influencer. I wanted to highlight some of the unique businesses - both small and large - that I’ve worked with over the last year because each one of them is so special and has something great to offer to my audience. I wanted to show my appreciation and to send positive vibrations and good karma, especially considering that we still are affected by the events that have taken place during the 2020 pandemic into the present 2021’.

My second question was obviously about how she became an influencer.

All started out through my yoga training and yoga gear. As a child and teenager, I modeled runways and became what was known as a promotional model, where I worked with Buckler non-alcoholic brew, Estee Lauder and Citgo Cars to name a few.

I grew up as a gymnast first, then became a professionally trained ballet dancer and later a ballet teacher at elite schools with professional training programs, and eventually an adjunct professor. Dance injuries led to my yoga path which in turn led to my path as a healer and a successful journey of many years, with two offices in NoMad NYC as well as with at-home clientele working with some of New York’s elite.

Covid-19 changed all of this, and I turned my attention to Instagram promos, partnering with diverse, small, and larger companies, and turning my sights on furthering my education, adding to my arsenal of training certifications through the study of TCM - Traditional Chinese Medicine. Though I’m already certified in Hatha yoga, Vinyasa yoga, Thai yoga body work, and hold multiple training certificates and course completions in Pilates, ballet, martial arts and spent my entire life studying the body, I felt it was time to add to my skill set and use this time to grow and expand my knowledge and expertise. Currently, most of my partnerships reach out to me first, which is a great place to be. Until I expand, I can only take on so much, so I’m extremely choosy with whom I work with. What I envision in my future is to continue my work as a healer and yogi, while offering my audience access to some of my favorite brands. Soon I’ll have a platform on my website with access to all discount codes, special events, beauty products and tools, health and fitness, travel, hotels, and overall lifestyle and wellness brands’.

It was really inspiring to see how Jillian was able to use the experience and knowledge she gathered over the years to turn a year that could have been very negative for her into a positive transformation experience. So, I inevitably asked her what she thinks contributed the most to becoming a successful influencer.

As far as success on social media is concerned, not every platform is needed during a given time period; know what works for you as you develop and grow. Build steady from there. It can be overwhelming at times...  It is my opinion that not everything is meant to be pushed on social media. I’ve recently said to a friend this when deciding whether or not to leave a platform or add an additional platform. I told her “I feel you big time. You have to make it work for you and your goals and take breaks when necessary, and sometimes put the blinders on like a horse in the Kentucky derby my love”!

One quote I’ve carried with me my entire professional career as a dancer, and then applied to anything I’ve ever done, is by the late, great Martha Graham: “There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique, and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium; and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, not how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep yourself open and aware directly of the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.” I really love this quote.

Obstacles, many of us have moved due to the pandemic and closed offices, and reinvented how we operate completely. Moving is quite an undertaking in and of itself, so I understand the challenges that come along with that. I’ve been trying to manage my projects and my household, and I’m getting there. Takes time. It’s ok to take breaks and honor yourself in order to get stuff done, both personally and professionally, and in order while knowing where you want to be with your goals.

Rather than discuss what not to do I’d rather put my energy into what to do. There is no sense in putting out what doesn’t work into the energy field when we need so much for what does work to be the vibration, especially now during this time in this very moment we are in.

And about fame, my recommendation is: Never mind the fame game. That is when the piranhas start tearing at your flesh and the vampires sucking your blood and the witches begin casting their spells at you as the sharks’ fins begin to raise out of the water, that’s when you know. That’s when you know you’ve done something right; you know you are a success. You then raise your own vibration by knowing it is your soul that is invincible and unlike no other’

Jillian is clearly 100% focused and committed to her careers and, as she is busy promoting the many brands she is currently partnering with, she never stops looking at the future and already has many projects in store: collaborations with beauty treatments, services, and SPAs, as well as a recent partnership with Integrative Wellness expert Dr. Marina Yuabova, (the code queengotham garners her followers discounted services).

A new partnership is also coming up with Herbal Face Food, 100% plant ingredients that have healing benefits for the skin. It’s truly an incredible product that I’ve grown to love as part of my daily routine. Doctors have quoted my face as having “baby soft skin” after using it (her followers get a 20% discount with code queengotham).

And as soon as venues and indoor activities will reopen Jillian plans to join again wellness events and retreats.
And we can’t wait to see what QueenGotham will have to share with us!

In this editorial, Jillian featured some of her favorite brands.

Deborah Lindquist - Eco Celebrity Designer based in LA and renowned for her ‘Green Queen’ Collections

Al Hassan Toure Designs - Leather King and Celebrity Designer of unique creations

Scentbird – New York-based company offering a monthly subscription for fragrances, essences, candles, and much more (featured in the editorial: Tiziana Terenzi - Spirito Fiorentino, Oscar De La Renta - Bella Essence, scents of wood sandalwood & oak)

Habanero - Italian Handmade Bags crafted with the best materials and the trendiest styles

Goli Nutrition - The world first apple cider vinegar gummy most powerful ashwagandha gummy   

Verb Energy – Energy Bars made of green tea and are the equivalent of one single espresso

Hair La Vie – Natural Hair Products that help to rescue, rejuvenate and grow hair, with lash-enhancing serum

Viore - Shampoo and conditioner bars made by the Red Yao – 100% vegan and handmade using rice as the main ingredient

Herbal Face Food – Vegan Skincare that uses plant-based Anti-Aging, Multi-Correctional, Anti-Viral compounds.

Credits

Article by Joseph Fraia

Photographer: Joseph Fraia @jrfstudio

MUA: Kalliniki Lambronoudis @_makeupwithnikki_

Lashes: Kali Lash company

NYFW 2021: Made in NYC Fashion Show and Pop Up powered by Shop Local Designers


 

ShopLocalDesigners.com is the platform created by native New Yorkers Imani Jones, founder of global creative agency FYID NYC, and Joseph Fraia, founder of marketing & media company Livein Media, as a direct response to the pandemic in support of local designers and creatives across the country and the world.

This NYFW F/W 2021 season, Shop Local Designers presented ‘Made in NYC Fashion Show and Pop Up,’ February 12-13 at the prestigious venue ‘The Atrium’ by Ideal Glass Studios’ in the heart of the West Village in Manhattan, NY. The show aimed to celebrate New York City designers and entrepreneurs’ perseverance while reminding us that New York City is still a proud fashion capital and center for innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness. 

The roster of designers and creatives featured over the two days was indeed impressive.

On the 12th of February took place the Virtual Fashion Show of celebrity designer Anthony Rubio. Anthony is also an NYC native and the pet couturier who creates and innovates new concepts and techniques and is strictly couture. He is the first pet fashion designer to exhibit during a New York Fashion Week.

The event was Virtual and with closed doors, limited to VIP invitees and press. The show will be broadcasted by Antonio Rubio on his exclusive platforms and available via Fashion Week Online.

The 13th of February witnessed the celebration of the Shop Local Designers’ Collective of Creatives that presented a vibrant Pop-Up shop featuring the best Fashion Brands based in New York with live fashion presentations and performances by Willard Morgan, Ryan Brahms, Gideon Berger, Nkumu Katalay, and Hoox streamed virtually.

At the same location at ‘The Atrium’ on 9 West 8th Street, from 1 to 8 pm, following all the City safety and health regulations and guidelines, fashion lovers and weekend shoppers were able to browse among the creations made in NYC by based in NYC brands, Helena Magdalena, Naurah USA, Shy Corner, Kühler Co, Tafari Wraps, Vestiphobia and Kovasky by Minika Ko, accessories by Adinkra Republic, jewelry by KIL-NYC, vintage clothes and accessories by Grand Stand Fashion, as well as local businesses as JBM Jewelry, Kevana Wellness, Andrea Pina and the Jaded Scents just to name a few. 

Madbatterrnyc served its delicious cupcakes baked in Astoria, Queens.

An amazing ensemble of entrepreneurs and creatives willing to make a statement and rewire the fashion industry to its roots.

The production of ‘Made in NYC Fashion Show and Pop Up’ was made possible by the commitment of Imani Jones and Joseph Fraia, founders of ShopLocalDesigners.com, their production team, and the visionary talent of Willard Morgan, director of Ideal Glass Studios and owner of The Atrium.


The event was kindly sponsored by ‘This is Good Water.’

‘Good Water’ was birthed during a pandemic where water, although an essential need, was scarce. The company’s desire was to produce a product that was crisp and refreshing during these strenuous and exhausting times. Their goal is to provide a luxury beverage that promotes health and wealth without compromising style and appeal.

Water is luxury, and luxury is water.

For info visit www.shoplocaldesigners.com

Press/Media Inquiries, please email info@shoplocaldesigners.com

Instagram @shoplocaldesigners

Co-producers: Imani Jones @ijonesnewyork and Joseph Fria @jrfstudio

Creative Agency: Find Your ID NYC @findyouridnyc 

Media & PR: Live In Magazine @Livein_Magazine  

Model coordinator:  Taiwo Aloba @modelvoss 

Lighting designer: Curts D'Amour @curtsadamour & Joe D’Emilio 

Set designer: Mike Okerson @mokerson of Fractured Reality 

Host & venue owner:  Willard Morgan @willardmorgan 

Venue: The Atrium at Ideal Glass Studios @Idealglass 

Stylist: Tiye Eliza @tiyeeliza 

Dj: Chris Edwards @elektronic.ceez 

Assistants: Alejandra Gabriela @gabsiny & Gideon Berger @gideon_berger 

Media host:  Rebel Jones @rebellion_jones 

Art installation: Susannah Perelman of Art House NYC @arthouse.nyc 

Video:  Jordan Cortes @jordan.cortess + Mikey Gonazalez Azuaje @mickey.mov

Hair & Make Up: Emma Roudriguez @thehairbruja_emi +  Helene Marie @helene.marie

Event Sponsored by ‘This is Good Water’ @phillygoodwater

 

Shop Local Designers - 2021 NYFW Show and Pop Up Shop - February 12 and 13 2021 at ‘The Atrium’ in Greenwich Village, NY

 

#localisthenewglobal

You never forget where you come from. This year’s Pop-Up Shop and Fashion Show following NYFW 2021 uplifts Made & Based in New York City designers and brands. The Shop Local Designers Pop Up + Fashion Show is an opportunity to demonstrate a brand’s global appeal and to offer a continued opportunity to interact and engage with our event’s Influencers, Designers, Stylists, Make-Up Artists, Photographers, Bloggers, Models, and Performers. As we evolve into a new world of interactive retail experiences and e-commerce, the Shop Local Designers Pop Up presents a new-age experience inviting brands to reach their consumers where they are, LIVE in New York City.

Featuring special guest and celebrity designer: Anthony Rubio. Anthony Rubio is an NYC native and pet couturier who stands for creating and innovating new concepts and techniques and is strictly couture. He is the first pet fashion designer to exhibit during a New York Fashion Week.

Shop Local Designers DJ's spinning the hottest beats & performances starting at 1PM on February 13th, 2021.

EVENT ITINERARY:

February 12th: Made In NYC Fashion Shows

1:00 - 8:00 PM

February 13th: Made in NYC Pop Up Shop

1:00 - 8:00 PM

Live Performances and Jam Session by:

Willard Morgan & Gideon Berger

Nkumu Katalay

Ryan Abrahams

Hoox & The Africanos

February 14th: PYNK NYFW: All Women Fashion Pop Up & Performances

1:00 - 8:00 PM

EVENT COLLABORATORS:

Saturday, February 13th, 2021,1-8 PM. Location is brought by Ideal Glass Studios above The Atrium. An artist-run production space conveniently in the heart of the west village of Manhattan.

Hosted by Find Your ID NYC & Livein Magazine in collaboration with Shop Local Designers. Shop Local Designers is the solution for designers to boost their brands. The platform allows users to search designer trends by city, providing a unique opportunity to explore new cultures, support local designers from around the world, and highlight global talents.

Special thanks to Nina Edwards for the poster provided! Her artwork can be found on her website.

COVID SAFETY MEASURES:

  • Masks are required at all times.

  • Social distancing is required. Please maintain 6 feet apart at all times.

  • We reserve the right to limit entry. Guests might have to wait for entry to limit the number of people entering, even if you have a ticket.

For more about the collective, please follow us:

@findyouridnyc

@shoplocaldesigners

@livein_magazine

Poster artwork by Nina Edwards @metropolitanmiss

 

A wool new world

 

By Bailey Roulo

In the world of fashion today, many people are turning to more sustainable ways to create clothing. Thrifting is very popular among younger generations, and fast fashion is growing more unpopular by the moment. New styles and clothing are still being developed, but it is taking a turn into a more ethical way of fashion. Wool is at the forefront of this change in the industry. There are so many perks to wool apparel that make it sustainable and ethical. Unlike synthetic material and cotton, wool last a good while longer than other materials. It is also so much better for the environment. Using wool, designers are reducing waste that would come from using different materials that contain products that are not natural.

The common misconception about wool is that it can be itchy. It depends on the yarn being used, but most apparel made from real and good wool will feel like a soft hug. One of the most popular and sustainable types of wool is merino wool. It gives room to breathe, making it the perfect kind of wool for all year round. It is also incredibly soft and comfortable on the skin. Another perk of wool apparel is it doesn’t wrinkle. That is perfect for people who are always on the go and do not have the time to iron out clothing. Just toss on that wool sweater, and you are good to go for the day. Not only is wool clothing incredibly comfortable, but the idea of sustainable clothing and products is just another upside of this material. Wool has been given a bad rap for being itchy, as we said earlier, and hot, but the modern wool apparel has changed the game. Keep an eye out for wool to keep growing in popularity. What is better than comfortable clothing that will last longer and reduce waste, effectively helping the planet in the process?

 

Concrete Jungle

 

By Joseph Ralph Fraia @jrfstudio – jrfstudio.com

New York City is changing. Once again. We don't know yet how the city will look six months or a year from now. But what we know is that The Big Apple will appear with the new skin, maybe a different look, but always with the same spirit.

New Yorkers know that the skill this city tests the most is survival, it has always been like this; this is a place that makes you dream big but also every day reminds you that nothing is handed to you, and you have to work hard and struggle through if you want to see those dreams be coming true. The fascination about New York is that it is the only place that turns chaos into originality, madness into creativity, struggle into ambition, and success into fame. In New York, you have to show your fangs and pull out your claws if you really want to make it, you have to channel your wild spirit and be brave, show your attitude, and not afraid to be who you really are. Like in a jungle. In this editorial, we wanted to show you the wild spirit of New York in the beautiful shape of Ingrid Gregus, masterfully portrayed by Charles Farrah with the creations of fashion designer and ‘Project Runway’ Winner Irina Shabayeva.

The background for this project is some of the most iconic spots in the East Village in Manhattan, one of the last most authentic historic neighborhoods on the island, where brownstones, graffiti, rusty fences, and a hipster and the vibrant community still gives you the vibes of the glamorous 70s, when Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jimi Hendrix, and the Ramones used to hang out and perform in this area.

And you? Do you have what it takes to survive in this Concrete Jungle?

 

Location: East Village, NYC

Photographer: @cfaraphoto Charles Farrah

Designer: @irinashabayeva Irina Shabayeva

Hairdresser: @hairjess87 Jess Parol

MUA: @makeupbymara Mara

Model: @ingridgregus Ingrid Gregus

Street style in Times Square, NY

Street style in Times Square, NY

 
Setting trends in the NYC subway

Setting trends in the NYC subway

Princess in White: Eleonora Pellegrin

Princess in White: Eleonora Pellegrin

 
Coe Hall Estate

Coe Hall Estate

Theater District - NYC

Theater District - NYC

Angelina Kristic

Angelina Kristic

Swingin’ Era

Swingin’ Era

Timeless Style from the Roaring ‘20s

Timeless Style from the Roaring ‘20s