Art In Freeplay
March 11, 2010
I had a wonderful surprise this afternoon that I absolutely must share with you! The following comes from an entry of Dustin Groeneman’s site, Freeplay, displaying his works of visual art.
When I was first introduced to Dustin through facebook, I knew he was a cool guy. I knew this because he promised not to clutter my wall with quizzes or requests for me to “become a fan of bacon” (after all isn’t it understood, kinda like butter?) and had been following the blog.
Then, when you see his art you realize he is a cool guy with a lot of talent.
I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of his work, and look forward to seeing all the great images he continues to produce. Thank you, Dustin! If you haven’t seen his work before, then you will definitely want to take a look at his page at: http://freeplay.tumblr.com
He also has some entertaining notes on there that are quite enjoyable; you’ll definitely want to follow up for more.
Cigars, Fashion, & Style- But Of Course!
June 28, 2009
I love cigars, and when something unique like this limited edition box from La Flor Dominicana comes up- I am very excited! With art design by Ruben Toledo for the bands and cigar box, this duo is a magnificent piece worth looking into.
I was enjoying a cigar at my favorite cigar shop when the owner, Kenny, came up to me and showed me this beautiful box of cigars. It is the El Museo Limited Edition Box and can only be found from elite tobacconists and select department shops. Only 2000 boxes are to be produced with a retail price of $600, so once they’ve sold out that will be the end of this particular cigar’s production- and the box will remain a collectors piece forever.
Kenny has this lovely box available in his shop, and it is beautiful to look at and tempting to taste- but for the occasion it was created for, it is to be sold as a complete set with all profits donated to El Museo del Barrio.
La Flor Dominicana produce world class cigars of which I am very fond of. And to see a fine cigar paired up with a beautiful design for a great cause is grand. I must say, I would love to indulge in one- it is oh so tempting to discover the flavors of this unique cigar.
The designer, Ruben Toledo, was born in Havana, Cuba in 1961. He is a painter, sculptor and illustrator. His wife, a fashion designer, Isabel Toledo was also drawn to the project. For the two of them it was a project of personal meaning from their own history, and one they were very happy to be a part of.
So there you have it, loves- cigars, fashion, and style!
For more information about this project or the box design, visit Cigar Aficionado or El Museo.
Another Look Into A Wonderland Film & Lewis Carroll With Phantasmagoria
June 25, 2009
All this discussion of a new Alice In Wonderland film reminds me of one I have been very anxious to come out. Phantasmagoria: The Visions Of Lewis Carroll is a film that has been in the making for some time now by Marilyn Manson.
Love him or hate him, there is no denying the art and perspective that comes with the man; his videos and shows are very beautiful to see. When he first began the concept of this film his focus was with the story of Alice In Wonderland, however after researching into Lewis Carroll and his story, Manson soon found great interest and a need to tell this tale. The role of Alice In Wonderland plays a big role in Lewis Carroll’s life and will have a great part in this film as well.
Manson has said that he wishes to “redefine the horror genre” and that “It’s kind of a return to Hitchcock-style psychological horror about letting your mind do the damage and sometimes what you don’t see is scarier.” His aim is to be unconventional by being traditional.
The synopsis of this film is as follows:
“Victorian Enlgland.
A haunted writer in an isolated castle is tormented by sleepless nights and visions of a girl named Alice. He finds himself becoming a symptom of his own invention.
“Now all my nightmares know my name.”
He is Lewis Carroll. Terrified of what waits for him each night.”
Current casting has Marilyn Manson as Lewis Carroll, Lily Cole as Alice, Evan Rachel Wood as Alice’s alter ego, and Tilda Swinton as Lewis Caroll’s dream wife. Angelina Jolie is also said to be in negotiation for the role of The Red Queen but nothing has yet been set. Production has been put on hold until Manson’s next release, but we are to expect an unconventional release. Time will only tell, though I hope it is sooner than later.
A Visit Into Wonderland From Tim Burton
June 23, 2009
All this discussion of cartoons, villains, and characters we’ve loved since childhood always draws me right into wonderland. And with news of Tim Burton’s next movie to be “Wonderland” I felt it a must to bring up.
Now, I have mixed feelings about this honestly. I have a difficult time these days to get excited over any movie… The Dark Knight was the last movie that really delighted the child inside me, keeping true to the integrity of the characters and story. But so many movies these days take classics and “revive” them with a campy unnecessary or just completely wrong twist. My opinion only of course, but I save judgement until after the movie is out and I have seen it. Only then will I know.
In the mean time I will indulge in the photos as I keep a cautious eye and ear in mind. Alice In Wonderland is very dear to me and so I do not want my heart broken.
This movie is to take a different story but with the classic’s tale in mind. In Tim Burton’s wonderland, Alice is 17 years of age and attending a party at a Victorian estate. She soon discovers that she is about to be proposed to in front of hundreds of snooty society types, to which she then runs off, following a white rabbit into a hole which returns her to Wonderland. In this film, wonderland is a place she has once visisted 10 years before but does not recall it. I think this allows for more possibilities for Tim Burton to put his own creative take and not disturb the classic. Creating a twist from the story from the beginning leaves some room for freedoms. We shall see how it all comes together in 2010.
Below are some photos courtesy of stylefrizz of Johnny Depp as The Mad Hatter, Helena Bonham Carter as the Red Queen, and Anne Hathaway as the White Queen.
You can read more about this film from USA Today where they also offer more photos and a panoramic exclusive view into the art concept of Alice In Wonderland.
Anvil: A Modern Tradition
May 24, 2009
Anvil is what I want and look for in a bar- classic traditional cocktails made by proud and talented bartenders. The look is rustic yet modern with a classic and timeless feel, and the details go far.
Like the glassware for instance- vintage glassware that adds charm to each cocktail that is ordered. Bartenders take pride in their work and create wonderful cocktails you truly can enjoy. The environment is wonderful, as is the staff- welcoming and like a moment of time from the past living here in the now. This is a must indulge for the cocktail admirer, or for anyone looking to relax in a timeless and classic fashion.
The ice is perfect; the crafting of libations are done precisely and elegantly like the art it is. When I first walked in and saw a shelf devoted to bitters I knew I was in the right place.
The bartenders have my respect, I love to let them make the drinks they love and introduce me to new and wonderful drinks. Our bartender kept our orders in mind and recommended new ones for us to try based on the styles we had been enjoying- I love that. The attention to detail and pride is a beautiful balance.
Last night was our first visit, and we were pleased to see a menu of cocktail specials which changed on a daily basis. I started my evening with a cocktail by the name of “Smitten” -how could I pass that up? It consisted of Gin, Campari, Lemon, and mint- very refreshing and very lovely. I could see this one being a marvelous drink by the pool on a warm summer day.
From there I moved on to “The Darb” which was composed of Apricot Brandy, French Vermouth, Gin, and Lemon. A very delicious drink indeed- the apricot brandy gave a nice smooth finish after a crisp and refreshing beginning. The texture of the ice danced perfectly along side it, too.
Now, I was too busy enjoying my first cocktail to take a picture- as was Timothy with his “Sazerac” which composed of Rye, Absinthe, Campari and a lemon twist. Though it looked like a cosmo in appearance, after a quick taste you knew this was no girlie drink. I loved it- but I like a strong drink. Timothy did too, but definitely an interesting drink to start the night with. This was lovely, smooth and with a bite that was pleasant to me, but could be considered harsh to others. I’d have this one later in the evening.
From there, he moved on to the “Negroni” which was composed of Gin, Sweet Vermouth, Campari, and Bitters. Sebastian, our bartender, recommended this one to us off the menu- and what a lovely choice.
It was at this point that we found out how small of a world it is- a we were welcomed by friends who happened to already be there! We were fortunate to taste a grand variety of cocktails between all of us- including a sip of a “Gin Fizz” made to perfection and a “Gin Gin Moscow Mule” that was very refreshing!
As the night progressed we found a new favorite- the “Corn N Oil” which was composed of Blackstrap Rum, Falernum, and Angostura Bitters. This one is *fabulous* and a perfect drink to finish an evening with. I love everything about this drink- and it was made beautifully with the right amount of sweetness, not overpowering in the least. The first sip reminded me of a port , which I love, but in a beautifully crafted cocktail. Definitely a must!
For me, I decided to end the evening with an old treat I used to love having in Miami (this bar was making me feel at home and reminded me of my old home). And so I finished the night with a “Caiprihana”- which I’ve posted on in the past as a love of mine that is refreshing when your sitting by the ocean.
This brazilian cocktail has become more popular across the US which is lovely to see. And being in a place where I had bartenders I could trust, I was very excited to order this drink.
A fabulous end to a remarkable evening. We definintely will be frequenting this treasure of a bar and look forward to the wonderful times ahead.
I am calling it a “Modern Tradition” because it is one of the timeless treasures that needs a modern embrace- and with places such as this one opening, it is a fond piece of history and memories reintroduced to modern times for a new and modern tradition.
Find out more about Anvil at their website: http://www.anvilhouston.com or follow them on twitter via one of the co-owners, @Bobby_Heugel . If you are ever in Houston, this is a must visit wonderland.
Seriously Delicious Sashimi Nomness
March 23, 2009
The other evening, my hunny and I had a sudden craving for sushi and decided to indulge- why not? I never turn down the chance, I adore sashimi and the place we love to go to also makes marvelous lychee martinis.
And whenever I go out to a restuarant, my favorite thing on the menu is what the chef selects for me. After all, the chef knows best. I love to let them have fun with a meal and create something they are especially proud of, and the experience is all the more wonderful because of it.
We like to sit at the bar instead of a table at this restaurant, that way we can interact with the chefs and watch the preparation (truly an art and delight to be a part of). I’ll usually ask what is fresh and recommended, and then let them chose and go all out with it. I am rewarded beyond my expectations each and every time- wow. (the last time I was there for a quick bite, I had the flounder sashimi which was presented in a gorgeous manner and pictured above)
I don’t even know what I am ordering half the time- since I let them decide. But I make sure to know afterwards so that I can order it again, as was with this case the other evening. The Aji sashimi (above) was presented so beautifully before us- and each bite was soooo heavenly- perfect! Subtle but lovely flavors with a great and tender texture. But it didn’t end there with the aji- the sashimi was just the beginning.
When we were done with the sashimi portion of the plate- the chef had the remaining fish head and bones fried and returned to us to eat.
I *love* the collar and cheeks of a fish, so this was a very welcoming surprise!
Needless to say, between the two of us nothing remained of this dish in the end, and it is one we are more than anxious to order again-very the “nom”.
As amazing as this was- it was not the best of the evening. The best would have to be reserved for the Live Scallop Sashimi we had immediately afterward. What a treat- I had to fight for the last bite on this one!
Sashimi (raw) on one shell, and then cooked and prepared on the other shell. The raw was definitely my favorite, as was the favorite for my hunny and the couple we became friends with next to us at the bar (they even ordered one, too!). This was incredible. I don’t think words would do it justice, but know that it was by far the favorite of the evening all around. And after having some incredible tastes beforehand, that is saying a lot.
And for dessert? A bite of uni- beautiful way to end a luxurious meal ;D
Museo Del Prado, My Greatest Love Of Art
June 7, 2008
A true love of mine has always been art; it began as a child and will never leave me. Of all the collections, by far, Museo Del Prado in Madrid, Spain is the greatest of them all. A humble collection perhaps when viewed against the Louvre in Paris; but a dear and exquisite collection if there ever was one.
Velasquez, Goya, Picasso and many of the Spanish old masters are found here with impressive paintings and sculptures at every step. The renown Las Meninas by Diego Velasquez is displayed and a must see by all.
I could spend a lifetime here and never be bored. It holds a dear place in my heart with the highest respect and admiration.
Of course other museums are grand and marvelous and should also be well appreciated, but there is something special about the Prado that just needs to be experienced and cherished.
Of your travels, don’t let this one slip you by. Madrid is a wonderful and beautiful city with many gems to show. Be sure to make Museo Del Prado one of them.
