Iconic Venue Fotografiska New York Plans to Relocate

Vivian Maier and Bruce Gilden's exhibits will close out the landmark gallery at 281 Park Ave. South

Fotografiska, the contemporary museum of photography, art, and culture, will relocate its New York location to better meet the needs of its visitors and expand gallery space in response to the ambitious visions of the artists it presents globally. After five years of strong ticket sales and a highly engaged membership base, the last day in its current building will be September 29th, 2024.

The planned relocation is part of the international museum’s strategic evolution and follows the success of recent openings in Berlin and Shanghai. In celebration of New York City, Fotografiska’s final exhibitions at 281 Park Avenue South will showcase the work of the late photographer Vivian Maier, running from May 31st to September 29th, and the legendary street photographer, Bruce Gilden, running from June 21st to September 29th. A new exhibition documenting 100 years of Nightlife in New York City will be presented in a temporary location following the closure of 281 Park Ave. South.

The Verōnika Restaurant and Chapel Bar will also be closing in mid-June, though a food and beverage program will be announced alongside the new location.

“At the core of Fotografiska is a dedication to inspiring new perspectives by amplifying some of the greatest artists of our time,” said Yoram Roth, Executive Chairman of the Fotografiska Board. “As it’s become clear that our current space is not conducive to this vision, our commitment to the city’s art scene remains unwavering.”

“I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished with Fotografiska in just five years, cementing our role as part of the New York arts landscape through unique exhibitions and dynamic programming,” said Sophie Wright, Executive Director of Fotografiska New York. “I have tremendous respect for our staff, some of whom have been with us since opening, and offer my sincerest gratitude for their dedication and talent that contributed to our successes. I look forward to sharing updates on our upcoming programming.”

The tenure at the Park Avenue South location is marked by 48 prominent and diverse exhibitions, covering global issues to local narratives, and drawing in hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the globe. Some highlights include the first exhibition celebrating 50 Years of Hip-Hop, the first-lifetime retrospective in the US of David LaChapelle’s work, introducing Daniel Arsham’s photography work, and premiering Andres Serrano’s Infamous series. The museum also mounted exhibitions of New York City-based artists such as Kia LaBeija, Adrienne Raquel, Martin Schoeller, Pixy Liao, and Ethan James Green, as well as ground-breaking shows by international artists such as Josèfa Ntjam, Hassan Hajjaj, and Tony Gum, among others. Several of these inspiring and provoking exhibitions are touring Fotografiska’s international locations in Berlin, Stockholm, Tallinn, and Shanghai.

Since its opening in 2019, Fotografiska’s New York location has been a cornerstone of diverse cultural exploration in the heart of Manhattan. Through the challenges of the pandemic, the institution remained steadfast in its mission to inspire new perspectives that contribute to a more conscious world.

As Fotografiska New York navigates the process of relocating, it extends its deepest gratitude to its dedicated community, members, and partners for supporting us on this remarkable journey. The museum remains committed to enhancing the unique cultural life and diversity of New York and looks forward to announcing its new location.

Renowned and celebrated New York photographer Joseph Fraia will attend the closing event and publish a reportage for Livein Magazine.

About Fotografiska

Fotografiska is the contemporary museum of photography, art, and culture. Founded in Stockholm in 2010, Fotografiska is a destination to discover world-class photography, eclectic programming, elevated dining, and surprising new perspectives. Guided by a mission to inspire a more conscious world through the power of photography, art, and culture, Fotografiska produces dynamic and unparalleled rotating exhibitions, spanning various genres in inclusive environments. With a dedicated international community and locations in Stockholm, New York City, Tallinn, Berlin, and Shanghai, Fotografiska is the premier global gathering place for photography and culture.

newyork.fotografiska.com | @fotografiska.newyork

About Joseph Fraia

Joseph Fraia is a renowned New York photographer, known for his versatility and artistry across a diverse range of subjects. As a resident artist member at the prestigious Salmagundi Club NYC, Joseph Fraia’s work reflects a mastery of both fine art and commercial photography. With over 15 years of experience, his career has spanned from fashion to documentary photography, capturing compelling stories with a distinctive aesthetic. His work has also gained international recognition through ad campaigns, where his eye for detail and creativity shine. A senior contributor at Livein Magazine, Joseph Fraia continues to influence the visual arts world with his ability to fuse technical skill with artistic vision. His contributions to both New York’s art scene and the global creative landscape affirm his status as a celebrated figure in contemporary photography.

jrfstudio.com | @jrfstudio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Aaron Westerberg - Pink Kimono

J Louis - Juliana

Vanessa Rothe - Modern Day Dior

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."

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 

“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 Group, Beyond 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.

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