Showing posts with label CULTURE. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CULTURE. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Serena and Venus Williams Amongst Seven Recipients Honored by National Portrait Gallery///Glenn Lutz Presents 'A MACHINE THAT MAKES' at Guts Gallery in London

National Portrait Gallery "Portrait of a Nation" ArtNational Portrait Gallery "Portrait of a Nation" ArtNational Portrait Gallery "Portrait of a Nation" ArtNational Portrait Gallery "Portrait of a Nation" ArtNational Portrait Gallery "Portrait of a Nation" ArtNational Portrait Gallery "Portrait of a Nation" Art

Serena and Venus Williams, along with Dr. Anthony FauciMarian Wright EdelmanAva DuVernayJosé Andrés and Clive Davis have been chosen as the seven recipients to be honored at the National Portrait Gallery’s (NPG) upcoming “Portrait of a Nation” exhibition.

Housed at the Smithsonian’s art museum in Washington D.C., the award commends individuals who have made an extraordinary impact on American society. The new commissions will join over 23,000 permanent portraits that include Abraham Lincoln, Aretha Franklin, Frida Kahlo and Spike Lee.

Amongst the new permanent works, the institution tapped David Hockney, who created a vibrant depiction of Clive Davis, while Robert Pruitt painted a Double Portrait of Venus Williams. In the latter artwork, Pruitt, who is known for his conté style drawing, depicts the tennis phenom in stylish armor that exudes her confidence on-and-off the court.

Nigerian-born, New York-based artist, Toyin Ojih Odutola, was chosen to create a portrait of Serena which vibrantly imbues the player’s confidence but in a far more relaxed demeanor and which accentuates the artist’s use of color and texture.

Highlights also include Hugo Crosthwaite’s stop-motion animation of Dr. Fauci, who became the face of the US’ response to the COVID pandemic, along with a portrait of José Andrés by Kadir Nelson, Ava DuVernay by artist Kenturah Davis and a photographic portrait of Marian Wright Edelman, which was obtained by Ruven Afanador back in 2013.

“Portrait of a Nation” will be on view in Washington D.C. from November 10 to October 22, 2023.

Elsewhere, Glenn Lutz presents A MACHINE THAT MAKES at Guts Gallery in London.

National Portrait Gallery
8th St NW & G St NW
Washington, DC 20001Glenn Lutz 'A MACHINE THAT MAKES' Guts Gallery ArtGlenn Lutz 'A MACHINE THAT MAKES' Guts Gallery ArtGlenn Lutz 'A MACHINE THAT MAKES' Guts Gallery ArtGlenn Lutz 'A MACHINE THAT MAKES' Guts Gallery ArtGlenn Lutz 'A MACHINE THAT MAKES' Guts Gallery Art

To accompany his recent book release, There’s LightGlenn Lutz is currently showcasing a new solo exhibition at Guts Gallery in London that expands on the core tenets touched on through his practice relating to Black masculinity, sexuality, identity and mental wellness. 

A MACHINE THAT MAKES prominently features a series of light boxes that are used as a metaphor for enlightenment, as the artist investigates themes pertaining commodification, identity, and the philosophy of “Collective Consciousness.” As the light draws viewers in, Lutz implores one to question appropriation and exploitation through photo-based artwork that ironically critiques what the artist believes to be the commercialization of Black men through a post-historical framework.

The exhibition offers a slice of what Lutz touches upon in There’s Light, which is packed with artwork, interviews and analysis that shows ways in which one can overcome trauma, systemic racism and social injustices.

Lutz commented further:

“When we unpack our traumas individually and in communal settings; when we focus on our similarities and engage in healthy, vulnerable conversations with growth-minded individuals, and when we examine our biases, stereotypes, and experiences honestly, we begin to heal. That is what There’s Light is. It doesn’t only serve as a catalyst for healthy change in the black community, but it also creates light. I believe that light can be a small shift in the ever-growing battle for peace and justice in these tumultuous times.”

A MACHINE THAT MAKES is approaching its final days on view and will conclude at Guts Gallery on November 3. Meanwhile, you can grab a copy of There’s Light for $69.99 USD at Barnes & Noble.

ART:

Keith Haring 'Radiant Baby' Grace House Mural BonhamsKeith Haring 'Radiant Baby' Grace House Mural BonhamsKeith Haring 'Radiant Baby' Grace House Mural BonhamsKeith Haring 'Radiant Baby' Grace House Mural Bonhams

Amidst his short, yet prolific career, Keith Haring created 45 wall murals around the world, which in hindsight, have become just as essential to the scope of his work as his large-scale paintings. Following a recent Radiant Baby wall drawing that hit auction back in August, Bonhams will include a slice of Haring’s masterful “Grace House Mural” at its upcoming Post-War & Contemporary Art Sale.

The wall panel, measuring 97.5 x 69.25 x 6 inches, was painted with oil-based house paint on a cement wall at Manhattan’s Grace House, a Catholic Youth Organization, in the 1980s. Other notable figures on the original mural included Haring’s barking dogs and various dancing men. As the building closed in 2019, the artwork was carefully removed and sold for roughly $4m USD and has since been exhibited at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver (MCA Denver) and the Schunck Museum in the Netherlands.

Untitled (Radiant Baby) from the Grace House Mural, circa 1983-1984 comes with a pre-estimate of roughly $1m USD and will auction on November 16, 2022 at 5pm ET.joshua vides buzz lightyear sculpture edition apportfolioAPPortfolio just took the wraps off a new sculpture edition featuring a monochromatic Buzz Lightyear figure. Designed by Joshua Vides, the Toy Storyprotagonist is rendered in Vides’ signature black and white sketch motif. 

The Buzz Lightyear sculpture edition will be available in 30cm and 100cm variants. The 30 cm version will be limited to 300 pieces and sold exclusively at the newly opened ARTELLI art store in Macau priced at $6,800 HKD (roughly $866 USD).

he standout 100cm option will only be limited to 50 units and sold through a lottery at APPortfolio’s online store starting November 4 at 10 am HKT through November 9 at 11pm HKT. Each giant piece will cost $98,000 HKD (approximately $12,484 USD).

Check out the teaser image of the sculpture above and let us know your thoughts on this edition. Elsewhere in art, Avant Arte partnered with the artist Larry Bell to release a new sculpture edition entitled Light Knot.

Friday, August 5, 2022

NEW FRESH KICKS BY ME:

Nike Air Force 1 High Sculpt sail phantom sesame pure platinum dc3590 105 release info date priceAs we begin to approach the end of Summer, Nike (NYSE:NKE +0.18%is beginning to transition from bright flashy tones to soft hues and cozy fabrics. One of its latest introductions is a new take on the high-top Nike Air Force 1 Sculpt dressed in soothing “Sail,” “Phantom,” and “Sesame” hues.

Uppers arrive predominately in a smooth suede material complimented by tumbled leather accents on the heel tab piece, inset lateral Swooshes, and blank tongue tabs. Mimicking the aesthetics of an unfinished clay works piece, additional details include soft rounded laces which extend over the padded tongue, Nike banners that decorate the lace dubraes, and pink tints that are spread across the inner lining and blank insoles. Rounding out the design are latte-colored midsoles and classic sail rubber outsoles.

Take an official look at the Nike Air Force 1 High Sculpt “Sail” above and expect the pairs to release in the coming weeks at Nike’s website and select retailers for $120 USD.Nike Air Max 90 Kumquat Official Look Release Info DQ8974-800 2022 Nike SportswearFollowing a Terrascape edition of the Nike (NYSE:NKE +0.18%Air Max 90 in “Vivid Green,” the sportswear giant dishes out the beloved silhouette in a bright and juicy color scheme dubbed as “Kumquat.” While we’re holding onto the tail-end of the summer season, the Swoosh team looks to bring out the sunshine as the leaves start to brown.

The latest installment is stacked with a mesh “Kumquat” base embellished with “Anthracite” leather overlays, eyestays and branding tabs on the tongue and heel tab. A “University Gold” hue touches on the throat of the shoe, Swooshes and back of the midsole. White laces loop around the tongue to parallel with the midsole and is sealed off with a black rubber outsole and a lick of “Kumquat” for the forefront to complete the design.

Look out for the Nike Air Max 90 “Kumquat” to surface in the coming weeks at select retailers and via Nike’s website for $130 USD.Afterpay Air Max 95School is almost back in session with the end of the summer season approaching. As classrooms prepare to open their doors once again, Afterpay has teamed up with JDSports.com for another collaboration to ensure that students arrive in style.

This collaboration is Afterpay’s latest Dropshop installment, granting Afterpayers an exclusive opportunity to cop the new Air Max 95 style in all-black, with the addition of orange pops of color accenting the outsole.

Afterpay’s Dropshop series is the ultimate sneakerhead’s all-access pass to highly coveted drops, limited-edition collaborations, and unique experiences. As the previous Dropshop x JD Sports release sold out the same morning it debuted, this next drop is bound to be a back-to-school hit, so don’t hit the snooze button on this one.

Afterpay users who check out online using the Afterpay platform will have the opportunity to purchase the Air Max 95 for $180 USD starting August 4 at 10am EST on JDSports.com.nike dunk low vast grey DD8338 001 release date info store list buying guide photos price The moment a silhouette captures the hearts of the mainstream sneaker audience is when Nike (NYSE:NKE +0.18%has a tendency of going all in on it by ramping up its production of new colorways. This has been the case of the Dunk in recent years as we’ve seen fresh makeups turn up on what seems like a weekly bases. And this week, the newest Nike Dunk Low “Vast Grey” is finally getting its chance to hit the shelves.

This clean pair first popped up on our radar back in November 2021, but we now have a detailed look at it courtesy of footwear retailer Sneaker Politics. Instead of utilizing the traditional smooth leather panels for its upper, the kicks come engineered with buttery suedes. Its titular tone takes charge are drapes over the Swooshes and neighboring overlays while “Bone” applications are present atop the toe boxes, quarters and collars. Furthermore, you’ll find “Summit White” hits touch down on the laces, interior liners and tongues for more neutral contrasting.

Looking to add this pair to your rotation? Retailers like Sneaker Politics are dropping these come August 9 for $110 USD.AMBUSH Nike Air Adjust Force Blue Orange DM8465 400 800 Release Info date store list buying guide photos price yoonAMBUSH Nike Air Adjust Force Blue Orange DM8465 400 800 Release Info date store list buying guide photos price yoonFollowing the official reveal of “White” and “Black” pairs last monthAMBUSH and Nike (NYSE:NKE +0.18%return with “Blue” and “Orange” colorways of the Air Adjust Force. The colorways follow the duo’s 2021 collaborative release of the Dunk High, this time pulling the Air Adjust Force from the archives. Led by Creative Director and co-founder Yoon Ahn, AMBUSH has continued to connect with key labels throughout the industry and once again provides its cutting-edge design touch with Nike.

Now, after an early look at these pairs, we’re offered a complete breakdown of this upcoming release. The removable shrouds that wrap from the heel to midfoot remain a focal point with collaborative branding found throughout. Both pairs are equipped with Nike Grind rubber, the Swoosh’s recycled material, at the outsole. In “Blue,” a sharp shade of blue lands on the upper while black contrasts the pair with an all-black sole unit and accents that run with hints of orange throughout the upper. “Orange” offers a bright, tonal look with a shade of maroon hitting the laces and lining.

A release date for the AMBUSH x Nike Air Adjust Force in “Blue” and “Orange” has not yet been announced by the Swoosh. However, expect these pairs to hit shelves via Nike and select retailers by the end of the year at a price of $210 USD.AMBUSH Nike Air Adjust Force Summit White Black Black Psychic Purple Release Date Info Buy Price AMBUSH Nike Air Adjust Force Summit White Black Black Psychic Purple Release Date Info Buy Price After receiving official images of the “Blue” and “Orange” colorways, we now have a release date for the AMBUSH x Nike (NYSE:NKE +0.18%Air Adjust Force “Summit White/Black” and “Black/Psychic Purple.” Coming after a series of early looks and months of rumors, the upcoming take on the ’90s basketball silhouette continues Yoon Ahn‘s collaborative relationship with Nike.

The AMBUSH x Nike Air Adjust Force “Summit White/Black” and “Black/Psychic Purple” feature tonal white and black upper bases accented by rubberized accents, mini Swooshes and laces. The shoes also come complete with removable shrouds that wrap around the vamp and midfoot for a unique chunky look that continues the contrast design. Finishing up the design of the shoe are thick sculpted midsoles and matching rubber outsoles.

Priced at $210 USD, the AMBUSH x Nike Air Adjust Force “Summit White/Black” and “Black/Psychic Purple” is now set to release August 19 via Nike SNKRS and at select retailers.nike air max 97 silver bullet DM0028 002 release date info store list buying guide photos price 2022 Nike (NYSE:NKE +0.18%‘s catalog is home to some of the most iconic sneaker offerings that the industry has ever seen, especially when it comes to its ever-growing Air Max lineage. And one iteration that many sneakerheads across the globe covet is the iconic Air Max 97 “Silver Bullet.” The cult classic last saw a release back in 2017, but it’s ready to retro again and it’s 2022 variation has just now been officially revealed.

Given that 2022 marks the 25th anniversary of the Swoosh silhouette, it only makes sense that one of its most iconic colorways be brought back to the forefront. The Christian Tresser-designed installment is being reincarnated with all of its OG design cues. Metallic silver lines its mudguards and wavy lines, the latter of which are inspired by Japan’s bullet trains. Small notes of black adorn the oval tongue badges and interior liners while pops of red poke out through the Swoosh logos and heel tabs. White midsoles are positioned down below and house its full see-through Air unit.

Early reports have these slated to drop on November 11 for $180 USD, but Nike and other retailers haven’t confirmed this just yet.Nike Air Max Scorpion Triple Black DJ4702-002 Release Info date store list buying guide photos priceNike (NYSE:NKE -1.20%and its Air Max line continues to celebrate its heritage with milestones such as the 35th anniversary of the Air Max 1. However, the Swoosh is also designing for the future. As a result, the Air Max Scorpion is on its way as the newest model in the popular lifestyle line. The silhouette has immediately sparked discussion with mixed responses of adoration and criticism that primarily has focused on its oversized sole unit.

Now, after a black colorway with a colorful sole popped up, “Triple Black” is set to cover the model. The classic makeover utilizes various shades of black and dark gray to subtly outfit the not-so-subtle model. While the Flyknit upper looks to be styled similarly to a contemporary Air Max, the bulky Air-infused sole unit elevates this model to an experimental look.

The launch of the Nike Air Max Scorpion and its “Triple Black” colorway has not yet received a release date. However, keep an eye out for Nike to officially unveil the model in the coming months and expect this pair to hit shelves via Nike and select retailers soon.Jordan Legacy 312 Low True Blue CD7069 104 Release Info date store list buying guide photos priceJordan Brand continues to pay tribute to its heritage with the Jordan Legacy 312 Low. The silhouette debuted in 2018 with streetwear icon Don C having contributed to the model’s design. It serves as a combination of the Air Jordan 1Air Jordan 3and Air Alpha Force and carries the rich history of Jordan Brand in its form. Now, elaborating on this connection to the past, the Jordan Legacy 312 Low arrives in “True Blue,” a colorway best known for hitting the Air Jordan 3 several times now, including in 2016.

The “True Blue” presentation of the Jordan Legacy 312 Low offers a base in white leather with soft gray overlays at the forefoot and heel. Blue accents the look on the Swooshes, heel, midfoot strap and other branding elements throughout. The strap also utilizes the classic elephant print at its base and carries red “NIKE” text that matches the lining of the shoe. A white midsole with a visible Air unit rests atop a gray outsole to complete this look.

No release date for the Jordan Legacy 312 Low in “True Blue” has been announced yet. However, look for Nike and select retailers to carry this pair in the coming months at a price of $130 USD.

WNBA STAR BRITTNEY GRINER IS SENTENCED TO 9 YEARS IN PRISON After being found guilty for possessing less than one gram of cannabis oil.

brittney griner sentenced 9 years prison ruling verdict russia drug smuggling

Brittney Griner has officially been sentenced to nine years in prison by a Russian court after being found guilty of drug smuggling. According to Judge Anna Sotnikova of the Khimki city court, Griner has a fine of 1 million rubles, which is roughly $16,400 USD.

On February 17, the WNBA star was arrested after less than one gram of cannabis oil was found in her luggage at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo International Airport. Griner claimed it was “an honest mistake” that occurred while packing quickly.

“I never meant to hurt anybody,” said Griner during her final statement to the judge. “I never meant to put in jeopardy the Russian population. I never meant to break any laws here. I made an honest mistake and I hope that, in your ruling, that it doesn’t end my life here.”

She continued, “I know that everybody keeps talking about political pawn and politics, but I hope that is far from this courtroom. I want to say again that I had no intent of breaking Russian laws. I had no intent. I did not conspire or plan to commit this crime.”

U.S. President Joe Biden commented on the athlete’s ruling. “Today, American citizen Brittney Griner received a prison sentence that is one more reminder of what the world already knew: Russia is wrongfully detaining Brittney,” he said. “It’s unacceptable, and I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates.”

Elizabeth Rood, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, called the ruling a “miscarriage of justice” and reassured they will do what they can to bring Griner back home. “Secretary of State Blinken, President Biden’s national security team and the entire American government remain committed to bringing Miss Griner home safely to her family, friends and loved ones,” she said.


Friday, May 13, 2022

NEW MUSIC: KENDRICK LAMAR DEBUTS NEW DOUBLE ALBUM, 'MR. MORALE & THE BIG STEPPERS'

Kendrick Lamar New Double Album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

Kendrick Lamar has finally dropped his highly anticipated album titled Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers.

Marking this his first solo record in five years, the rapper decided to create a double album that clocks in at one hour and 13 minutes. The project includes a lineup of collaborators, including Blxst and Amanda Reifer on “Die Hard,” Sampha on “Father Time,” Taylour Paige on “We Cry Together,” Summer Walker and Ghostface Killah on “Purple Hearts,” Kodak Black on “Silent Hill,” Baby Keem and Sam Dew on “Savior,” Tanna Leone on “Mr. Morale,” and Portishead’s Beth Gibbons on “Mother I Sober.”

“As I produce my final TDE album, I feel joy to have been a part of such a cultural imprint after 17 years. The Struggles. The Success. And most importantly, the Brotherhood. May the Most High continue to use Top Dawg as a vessel for candid creators,” Lamar shared in a statement. “As I continue to pursue my life’s calling. There’s beauty in completion. And always faith in the unknown. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts. I’ve prayed for you all. See you soon enough.”

Listen to Kendrick Lamar’s Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers on Spotify and Apple Music.

Monday, March 7, 2022

FASHION: 10 Emerging Black Fashion Designers To Watch Out For

10 Emerging Black Fashion Designers To Watch Out For

Positioned to make strides in the fashion industry, several emerging Black fashion designers are catching the world’s attention. From a Jamaican immigrant to a Brooklyn-raised creative, these up-and-coming designers are pushing the boundaries of fashion and setting season trends. As the fashion industry continues to diversify and showcase Black talent, here are 10 emerging Black fashion designers from across the globe that are galvanizing the current landscape.

Theophilio

Edvin Thompson, founder and creative director of contemporary clothing brand Theophilio, has presented a fresh take on embracing cultural heritage. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, the young creative has lived in a number of cities within the U.S., which have all influenced his unique design outlook. What stands out about Thompson’s label is its weaving of social commentary and personal stories of Jamaican heritage. By putting these stories at the forefront, his designs have caught the attention of celebrities like actress Keke Palmer, model Alton Mason, athlete Sha’Carri Richardson and more. Last year, Thompson took home the award for American Emerging Designer of the Year at the CFDA Fashion Awards.

Maximilian

Although Maximilian Davis was born in and resides in England, his Trinidadian-Jamaican identity remains a focal point of his design ethos. Davis’ debut SS21 collection under the non-profit talent incubator Fashion East represented not only an eye-catching display of rich color and seamless designs but also the importance of sharing personal narratives through design. His eponymous label Maximilian has recently been on a trailblazing path, catching the attention of Rihanna, Michaela Coel, Kim KardashianA$AP Rocky and more. Davis is set to showcase his final collection with Fashion East on Tuesday, February 22.

Head of State

Founded by Taefeek Abijako, the Brooklyn-based brand Head of State takes a different approach to evolving menswear and womenswear silhouettes. Instead of referencing pop culture, Abijako’s designs are inspired by books and what he envisions the characters to look like. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Abijako also embeds elements of his cultural heritage across the pieces that play with an array of cutouts and subtle structural shapes.

Kenneth Ize

Kenneth Ize embraces bold patterns, and the fabrics that encapsulate his vivid designs are produced in his factory in Lagos, Nigeria. Although he grew up and attended school in Austria, Ize’s eponymous label is shining new light on traditional West African textiles. The brand’s positioning of hand-woven textiles illustrates just how playful using every color of the rainbow can be. Ize was a finalist for the 2019 LVMH Prize and his cross-cultural pieces have been worn by BeyoncéNaomi Campbell and Donald Glover.

Johnny Nelson Jewelry

Based in New York City, Johnny Nelson’s jewelry label takes inspiration from pop culture and historical figures. Founded in 2017, his designs pay homage to music, literature and cultural milestones as illustrated by his unique rings that feature faces of renowned figures like James Baldwin to Biggie Smalls. Nelson’s pieces are composed of an array of metals and gemstones and have been worn by Lil Nas XKerby Jean-RaymondColin Kaepernick and more.

FEBEN

Central Saint Martins graduate Feben is reclaiming the narrative surrounding Black identity. Inspired by Eartha Kitt, Maya Angelou, and Beyoncé, the London-based designer’s pieces find the balance between strength and fun. Although Feben’s technical details include vibrant colors and voluminous silhouettes, her designs excel due to a blend of personal cultural experiences. Feben’s pieces have captured the attention of Erykah BaduJanelle Monáe and Michaela Coel, in addition to working with Beyoncé as a costume designer and stylist for the “Brown Skin Girl” segment of Black Is King.

No Sesso

Community-minded brand No Sesso was founded in Los Angeles by Pierre Davis. The brand’s name is Italian for “no sex/no gender” and its mission is to be inclusive of people of all colors and identities through an array of prints, fabrics and patchwork knits. As a genderless brand, No Sesso is working to elevate what clothing can be by taking a deeper look at the culture and future of gender expression.

Thebe Magugu

Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, Thebe Magugu’s label is embracing the everyday experience of men and women. Through sleek and contemporary dress notes, the is crafting a timeless catalog that also pays tribute to the multidimensional culture in Africa. In addition to its cultural awareness, one of the landmarks of Magugu’s label is its drive to address social and political issues through fashion. In 2019, Magugu won the LVMH prize, becoming the first African designer to do so. Celebrities that have donned the South African label include Issa Rae and Miley Cyrus.

Des Pierrot

Des Pierrot started his label to design clothes that he would want to wear. Based in Los Angeles, Pierrot’s hand-made pieces are inspired by his lifestyle, hip-hop music and his experiences growing up. The emerging label has no set gender labels and features signature design elements like multi-pocketed trousers, embellished pants and altered knitwear. At its core, Pierrot wants to challenge everyone to embrace their individuality.

3.PARADIS

Emeric Tchatchoua blends pop culture and streetwear with his label 3.PARADIS. Based in Montreal, Canada, Tchatchou’s brand was created as an alternative to traditional luxury and harbors a youthful zest that bridges the realities of rebellion, art and culture. As the “3” represents equilibrium and “PARADIS” represents joy, the emerging brand wants to strike the balance between youth-centered ambitions and evolving cultural ideologies.