Apr 19 2024

Bas Jan Ader: The Dutch Conceptual Artist Who Disappeared at Sea

Drifting Home | Bas Jan Ader

Bas Jan Ader was a Dutch artist whose work was deeply influenced by his fascination with the sea. He is best known for his conceptual art pieces that explored themes of loss, vulnerability, and the human condition. However, Ader’s life was tragically cut short when he disappeared at sea during a solo voyage.

Early Life and Education

Bas Jan Ader was born in Winschoten, a small town in the Netherlands on April 19, 1942. He grew up in a strict Calvinist family and was deeply influenced by his religious upbringing. Ader studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Amsterdam, where he was exposed to the avant-garde art movements of the 1960s. He later moved to Los Angeles to pursue his art career and became part of the vibrant art scene there. Ader’s early work was characterized by his interest in performance art and his use of humor and irony to explore serious themes.

Artistic Career and Themes

Bas Jan Ader standing in his Master of Fine Art’s exhibition entitled “Implosion” Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, California, 1967. Bas Jan Ader Copyright the Estate of Bas Jan Ader. Used with permission from the Estate of Bas Jan Ader, Los Angeles CA

Bas Jan Ader’s artistic career was marked by his fascination with the sea and its power. He often used the ocean as a metaphor for the human condition, exploring themes of loss, vulnerability, and the search for meaning. Ader’s work was deeply influenced by his religious upbringing, and he often used religious imagery and symbolism in his art. His early work was characterized by his use of performance art, and he later began to incorporate photography and film into his practice. Despite his short career, Ader’s work has had a lasting impact on the art world, and he is remembered as one of the most influential conceptual artists of his time.

The Final Work: In Search of the Miraculous

In 1975, Bas Jan Ader set out on a solo voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in a small sailboat as part of his final work, In Search of the Miraculous. The piece was meant to explore the themes of risk, loss, and the unknown, and Ader intended to document his journey through photography and film. However, Ader’s boat was found abandoned off the coast of Ireland a year later, and he was never seen again. The circumstances of his disappearance remain a mystery, and his final work has become a haunting and poignant symbol of the artist’s life and legacy.

Disappearance and Legacy

Bas Jan Ader’s disappearance at sea has become a defining aspect of his legacy as an artist. His final work, In Search of the Miraculous, has taken on a new meaning in light of his tragic end. Ader’s fascination with the sea and its power is evident in much of his work, and his disappearance has only added to the mystique surrounding his art. Despite his short career, Ader’s influence on the art world has been significant, and his legacy continues to inspire artists today.

The Mystery of Bas Jan Ader’s Fate

Bas Jan Ader’s disappearance at sea in 1975 remains a mystery to this day. Ader was attempting to sail across the Atlantic as part of his final art piece, In Search of the Miraculous, when he vanished without a trace. Despite extensive searches, no sign of Ader or his boat was ever found. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance have led to much speculation and debate, with some suggesting it was a deliberate act and others believing it was a tragic accident. Regardless of the cause, Ader’s disappearance has become an integral part of his artistic legacy and continues to captivate audiences today.

Curated by Jennifer

Apr 18 2024

Hayley Mills: Angelic Icon of the 60s and Beyond

Hayley Mills. Photo: Loomis Dean | The LIFE Picture Collection

Actress Hayley Mills was born on this day, April 18, 1946, in London, England.  Her child acting career began with her debut performance in the 1959 crime drama Tiger Bay, for which she won the “BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer.”

1960’s, George Harrison and Hayley Mills

A year later she starred in the Disney classic Pollyanna (1960), and quickly became one of Disney’s favorite personalities. It was a success, and during the next five years she played a number of wonderful roles in some of Disney’s best non-animated films, including The Parent Trap (1961), In Search of the Castaways (1962), Summer Magic (1963), The Moon-Spinners (1964), and That Darn Cat! (1965).

Some of her most popular non-Disney films were The Trouble with Angels (1966) and her Little Mermaid voice role in the Rankin/Bass stop motion animation The Daydreamer (1966), which was based on Hans Christian Andersen stories.

Hayley Mills had several Beatles connections in her young life.  In the 1960’s, Hayley Mills and George Harrison went to a charity event together, and she was photographed hanging out with some of The Beatles members later at the Pickwick Club.  In 1966, Paul McCartney wrote the musical score for her film The Family Way.  While filming The Family Way, Mills met director Roy Boulting, 33 years her senior, and the two married in 1971.

Here is Hayley Mills in The Trouble with Angels.

Apr 17 2024

Chavela Vargas: The Rebel Who Redefined Ranchera Music

Chavela

Born in Costa Rica on this day April 17, 1919, Chavela Vargas grew up in a conservative Catholic family. She discovered her love for music at a young age and began performing in local cantinas and bars. In the 1940s, she moved to Mexico City and quickly became a fixture in the city’s vibrant music scene. Despite facing discrimination and criticism for her unconventional style and masculine appearance, Vargas continued to perform and gain a loyal following. Her breakthrough came in 1952 when she was discovered by the legendary singer and composer José Alfredo Jiménez, who wrote many of her most famous songs.

Chavela Vargas was a trailblazer in the music industry, challenging traditional gender norms and paving the way for future generations of female artists. She rejected the stereotypical image of a female singer, opting for a more masculine appearance and style. Her powerful voice and emotional performances captivated audiences and earned her a devoted fan base. Vargas was a true rebel who refused to conform to societal expectations and instead embraced her unique identity and artistic vision.

Throughout her career, Chavela Vargas collaborated with many famous artists, including Frida Kahlo and Pedro Almodóvar. Her collaborations with Kahlo were particularly significant, as the two women shared a deep bond and mutual admiration. Vargas also worked with Almodóvar on several films, including “All About My Mother” and “Talk to Her,” providing haunting vocals for the soundtracks. These collaborations helped to further cement Vargas’ status as a cultural icon and cemented her legacy as a trailblazer in the music industry.

Despite her success, Chavela Vargas faced personal struggles throughout her life. She struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction, which led to a decline in her career in the 1970s. However, she made a comeback in the 1990s, thanks in part to the support of younger artists who were inspired by her music and her rebellious spirit. Vargas continued to perform and record music until her death in 2012, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer and icon in the world of ranchera music.

Chavela Vargas’ impact on Mexican music cannot be overstated. She challenged traditional gender roles and redefined ranchera music, making it more accessible to a wider audience. Her unique style and powerful voice inspired generations of musicians and fans alike. Vargas’ legacy continues to live on through her music and the countless artists she influenced. She will always be remembered as a trailblazer and icon in the world of Mexican music.

Curated by Jennifer

Apr 17 2024

Soviet Film Wednesday: Enchanted Desna

Enchanted Desna

Enchanted Desna is a film that gives us insight into the mind of Aleksandr Dovzhenko as a child, growing up by the Desna river. Directed by Yuliya Solntseva, the film is an “autobiographical film story” by her husband, Aleksandr Dovzhenko.

Both thought-provoking and beautiful, the film elicits memories and introspection from its viewers. For instance, the simplicity of watching young Aleksandr plan his day in a scene at the beginning of the film, thinking about where he could go to greet someone, conjures childhood memories of wonder, exploration, and free time. There’s also something splendorous in watching a place and time where most of the people spend their days in fields and gardens. And this place truly does look enchanted, rich in nature and shrouded in mist.

Dovzhenko also recounts war on the bank of the river, depicted in scenes of smoke and fire, and perhaps most notably, the ferryman’s monologue condemning Ukrainian soldiers for fleeing from battle, accusing them of abandoning their homeland.

Finally, the narrator returns to an industrialized Desna. Visually, the image of jutting buildings and bulldozed land is a sharp contrast to the paradisal, albeit poverty-laden childhood scenes. Dovzhenko reflects on the past, “one should never forget and always remember that people need artists to show the world the beauty of life. It’s a strange and pitiful thing that we sometimes lack the power and clarity of spirit to fathom life’s daily happiness, and that therefore so much beauty passes before our eyes unnoticed.”

Jean-Luc Godard said of Enchanted Desna, “(this is a film) about which I don’t know what to say critically, which gave me the feeling of having a lot to learn.” Godard also lauded Enchanted Desna as the best movie of 1965.

Apr 16 2024

The Impact of Henry Mancini on Classic Hollywood

Henry Mancini

Born on this day April 16, 1924, Henry Mancini’s influence on Classic Hollywood was both profound and far-reaching, leaving a mark on the industry’s musical landscape. As a prolific composer and conductor, Mancini’s contribution to film and television scores during the mid-20th century played a pivotal role in shaping the distinctive sound of Classic Hollywood. His innovative approach to music, coupled with his remarkable ability to seamlessly blend different music genres, set a new standard in the field of film scoring.

Mancini’s groundbreaking work in The Pink Panther, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and Days of Wine and Roses among others, were instrumental in defining the auditory aesthetics of Classic Hollywood. His iconic compositions, such as “Moon River” and the “Pink Panther Theme,” transcended the confines of their respective films, gaining worldwide recognition and becoming timeless classics in their own right. These works not only underscored Mancini’s technical mastery but also his exceptional capacity to evoke emotion and narrative through music.

Moreover, Mancini was a pioneer in bridging the gap between film music and popular music. His scores were often released as soundtrack albums, reaching broader audiences and further enhancing the popularity of the films they were associated with. This practice, which was relatively novel at the time, subsequently became a standard in Hollywood, underscoring Mancini’s trendsetting influence.

In addition to his creative contributions, Mancini’s numerous accolades, including four Academy Awards and twenty Grammy Awards, attest to his significant impact on Classic Hollywood. These honors not only validate his artistic excellence but also highlight his influential role in raising the status of film music to a respected art form.

Henry Mancini’s impact on Classic Hollywood is multifaceted and enduring. His unique musical style and pioneering practices have significantly shaped the industry’s musical identity and continue to inspire generations of composers and filmmakers.

Apr 15 2024

The Artistic Evolution of Arshile Gorky: From Realism to Abstraction

Diary of a Seducer (1945) | Arshile Gorky | MoMA

Arshile Gorky was an Armenian-American painter who played a significant role in the development of abstract expressionism. His artistic journey began with realism, but he later moved towards abstraction, creating works that were deeply personal and emotional. Learn more about his life and art in this article.

Early Life and Influences

Arshile Gorky

Arshile Gorky was born Vosdanik Adoian in the Armenian village of Khorgom on April 15th in 1904. His family fled to the United States in 1920 to escape the Armenian Genocide. Gorky studied art in Boston and New York, where he was influenced by the work of the European modernists and the American realists. He began his career as a realist painter, creating works that depicted the landscapes and people of his homeland.

Realism and the Influence of Cézanne

Arshile Gorky’s early works were heavily influenced by the realist style, which he learned during his studies in Boston and New York. However, he also drew inspiration from the post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, whose use of color and form would later become a hallmark of Gorky’s abstract expressionist works. In his early paintings, Gorky depicted the landscapes and people of his homeland with a keen eye for detail and a muted color palette.

Surrealism and the Influence of Picasso

In the 1940s, Arshile Gorky’s style began to shift towards surrealism, which was heavily influenced by his admiration for the works of Pablo Picasso. Gorky’s paintings during this period featured biomorphic shapes and abstract forms, often with a dreamlike quality. His use of vibrant colors and fluid lines also became more prominent, as he moved away from the muted tones of his earlier works. Gorky’s experimentation with surrealism would eventually lead him to develop his own unique style of abstract expressionism.

The Birth of Abstract Expressionism

Arshile Gorky’s shift towards surrealism in the 1940s marked the beginning of his journey towards abstract expressionism. His use of biomorphic shapes and abstract forms, combined with vibrant colors and fluid lines, set the stage for the development of this new artistic movement. Gorky’s unique style would go on to influence many other artists, including Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning, who would become key figures in the abstract expressionist movement. Gorky’s contributions to the evolution of modern art cannot be overstated, and his legacy continues to inspire artists to this day.

Curated by Jennifer

Apr 14 2024

From Darling to Doctor Zhivago: The Best Julie Christie Films

Julie Christie

Born on this day April 14, 1940 in Chabua, India, Julie Christie is a legendary actress whose career spans over six decades. Her performances have captivated audiences and earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress. From her breakthrough role in Darling to her iconic turn in Doctor Zhivago, Christie’s films are a testament to her talent and enduring legacy in cinema.

Christie began her career in the 1960s and quickly became a household name with her stunning performances. Christie’s ability to bring depth and complexity to her characters has made her one of the most respected actresses of her generation. In this article, we will explore some of her best films and celebrate her incredible career.

Darling: A groundbreaking film that earned Christie her first Academy Award.

Released in 1965, Darling is a film that broke new ground in its portrayal of a young woman’s journey through life. Christie plays the lead role of Diana Scott, a beautiful and ambitious model who rises to fame in the London fashion scene. The film explores themes of love, fame, and the price of success, and Christie’s performance is nothing short of stunning. Her portrayal of Diana earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, cementing her status as a rising star in the film industry.

Julie Christie in Darling (1965)

Far from the Madding Crowd: A period drama that showcases Christie’s range as an actress.

In this 1967 film adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s novel, Christie plays Bathsheba Everdene, a headstrong and independent woman who inherits a farm and attracts the attention of three very different suitors. Christie’s performance is nuanced and captivating, showcasing her ability to portray complex and multifaceted characters. The film itself is a beautiful period drama, with stunning cinematography and a sweeping score that perfectly captures the romanticism of Hardy’s writing.

McCabe & Mrs. Miller: A gritty Western that features Christie in a complex role.

In this 1971 film directed by Robert Altman, Christie plays Constance Miller, a savvy and independent businesswoman who teams up with a gambler named John McCabe (played by Warren Beatty) to open a brothel in a small mining town. Christie’s performance is raw and authentic, and her character is far from the typical damsel in distress often seen in Westerns. The film itself is a gritty and realistic portrayal of the Old West, with stunning cinematography and a haunting soundtrack by Leonard Cohen.

Doctor Zhivago: A sweeping romance that cemented Christie’s status as a Hollywood icon.

Doctor Zhivago is perhaps Julie Christie’s most iconic film, and for good reason. Directed by David Lean, the epic romance tells the story of Yuri Zhivago (played by Omar Sharif), a physician and poet caught in the midst of the Russian Revolution. Christie plays Lara Antipova, a beautiful and enigmatic woman who captures Zhivago’s heart. The film is a visual masterpiece, with stunning landscapes and costumes, and Christie’s performance is both captivating and heartbreaking. Doctor Zhivago earned five Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Score.

Apr 13 2024

Marion Hall Best: The Woman Who Changed the Face of Australian Interior Design

Marion Hall Best with chairs by designers Andrews, Arnio, Saarinen, Colombo, Eames and Bertoia at The Grove, Woollahra, 1970 | Caroline Simpson Library & Research Collection, Sydney Living Museums. Photo © Mary White

Happy birthday to Australian interior designer Marion Hall Best, whose lavish interiors popped with color and modern forms, and who was was influenced by modernist as well as minimalist designers. Best played an important role in increasing the recognition of interior design as a profession. She was born on this day April 13, 1905.

Marion Hall Best was a pioneering Australian interior designer who revolutionized the country’s design scene in the mid-20th century. With her bold use of color and modernist aesthetic, she transformed homes and public spaces alike, leaving a lasting legacy on Australian design.

Room for Mary Quant (1967) | Marion Hall Best

Early Life and Career

Marion Hall Best was born in 1905 in Sydney, Australia. She studied painting and drawing at the Julian Ashton Art School before beginning her career as a window dresser for the department store Anthony Hordern & Sons. It was here that she first began experimenting with color and design, creating eye-catching displays that caught the attention of shoppers and passersby. In 1933, she opened her own interior design studio, which quickly became known for its bold use of color and modernist aesthetic.

The Birth of Modern Australian Interior Design

Marion Hall Best was a pioneer in the world of Australian interior design, bringing a fresh and modern perspective to a field that had previously been dominated by traditional styles. Her use of bold colors and geometric patterns was a departure from the muted tones and floral motifs that had been popular in the past, and her designs quickly gained a following among those who were looking for something new and exciting. Today, her legacy lives on in the vibrant and eclectic interiors that can be found throughout Australia and beyond.

Living room of Marion Best’s Darling Point apartment. Rodney Weidland, 1973. Caroline Simpson Library and Research Collection, Sydney Living Museums.

Honors and Recognition

Marion Hall Best’s contributions to the world of design were widely recognized during her lifetime. In 1979, she was awarded the Order of Australia for her services to interior design. She was also made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in London and was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of New South Wales. Today, her work is held in the collections of major museums and galleries, including the National Gallery of Australia and the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. Her legacy continues to be celebrated through exhibitions, publications, and events, ensuring that her impact on Australian design will never be forgotten.

Curated by Jennifer

Apr 12 2024

Imogen Cunningham: The Woman Behind the Camera

Magnolia Blossom (1925) | Imogen Cunningham

Imogen Cunningham was a trailblazing photographer whose work spanned over seven decades. She is best known for her stunning black and white images of botanicals, nudes, and portraits. Cunningham’s unique perspective and technical skill made her one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at her life and work.

Imogen Cunningham was born on this day April 12, 1883 in Portland, Oregon. Her parents were both artists, and her father was a successful portrait painter. Cunningham showed an early interest in photography, and by the age of 18, she had already set up her own darkroom. She went on to study at the University of Washington in Seattle, where she earned a degree in chemistry. This background in science would later prove invaluable in her photographic work.

Imogen Cunningham’s photography was characterized by her focus on the natural world and the human form. She was fascinated by the intricate details of plants and flowers, and her photographs often captured the beauty of these subjects in stunning detail. Cunningham was also known for her portraits, which often featured strong, independent women. Her work challenged traditional notions of beauty and femininity, and she was a pioneer in the field of photography. Today, her legacy continues to inspire photographers around the world.

In the later years of her career, Imogen Cunningham continued to push the boundaries of photography. She experimented with new techniques and technologies, including color photography and digital manipulation. Despite her advancing age, she remained active and engaged in the art world, continuing to exhibit her work and mentor younger photographers. Today, Cunningham is remembered as one of the most important photographers of the 20th century, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Curated by Jennifer

Apr 11 2024

The Colorful World of George Blacklock: A Visual Journey

Blues Refraction (2018) | George Blacklock

Happy birthday to painter, writer, and musician George Blacklock, born on this day April 11, 1952.

George Blacklock is a celebrated artist whose work is characterized by its vibrant colors and dynamic compositions. His paintings are a feast for the eyes, with bold brushstrokes and intricate details that draw the viewer in. Join us on a journey through the world of George Blacklock, and discover the beauty and creativity of his art.

George Blacklock and his art

George Blacklock is a British artist who has made a name for himself in the world of contemporary art. Born in 1952, Blacklock studied at the Royal Academy Schools in London and has since exhibited his work in galleries and museums around the world. His paintings are known for their bold use of color and dynamic compositions, which often incorporate geometric shapes and abstract forms. In this visual journey, we will explore the world of George Blacklock and discover the beauty and creativity of his art.

The use of color in Blacklock’s paintings

One of the most striking features of George Blacklock’s paintings is his use of color. He often employs bold, vibrant hues that create a sense of energy and movement within the composition. Blacklock’s color choices are not arbitrary; he carefully selects each shade to create a specific mood or atmosphere within the painting. His use of color is often influenced by his surroundings, such as the changing seasons or the light and shadows of a particular time of day. Through his masterful use of color, Blacklock creates paintings that are both visually stunning and emotionally evocative.

Blacklock’s unique painting techniques

In addition to his use of color, George Blacklock is also known for his unique painting techniques. He often works with thick layers of paint, building up the surface of the canvas to create a sense of depth and texture. He also uses a variety of tools and techniques to apply the paint, including brushes, palette knives, and even his own hands. This creates a sense of spontaneity and energy within the painting, as if the colors and forms are bursting forth from the canvas. Blacklock’s techniques are a testament to his skill and creativity as an artist, and have helped to establish him as one of the most innovative painters of his generation.

The inspiration behind Blacklock’s art

George Blacklock’s art is inspired by a variety of sources, including his own experiences and emotions, as well as the natural world around him. He often draws inspiration from the landscapes and seascapes of his native Cornwall, as well as the vibrant colors and patterns found in textiles and other decorative arts. Blacklock’s art is also influenced by his interest in music and poetry, and he often incorporates elements of rhythm and language into his paintings. Overall, Blacklock’s art is a reflection of his unique perspective on the world, and his ability to translate that perspective into bold and dynamic works of art.

The impact of Blacklock’s art on the art world

George Blacklock’s art has had a significant impact on the art world, particularly in the realm of abstract painting. His use of bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes has inspired many other artists to experiment with similar techniques, and his unique approach to composition has challenged traditional notions of what a painting should look like. Blacklock’s work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and he has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the art world. Despite his success, Blacklock remains committed to pushing the boundaries of his art and exploring new avenues of creativity.

Curated by Jennifer