Nico, born Christa Päffgen on this day October 16, 1938 in Cologne, Germany, was a multifaceted talent. As a singer, songwriter, and actress, Nico’s musical journey was nothing short of a magical odyssey. Her unique voice, characterized by a deep, resonant timbre, was a departure from the conventional female vocalists of her time. This distinct style lent an edge to her music and helped her create an individual place in the world of music.
Nico’s association with the Velvet Underground, a legendary American rock band, marked a significant milestone in her career. The band’s debut album The Velvet Underground & Nico is considered one of the greatest albums of all time, with Nico’s hauntingly beautiful vocals on tracks like “Femme Fatale” and “All Tomorrow’s Parties” contributing significantly to its success. This album showcased Nico as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. It also served as a testament to her ability to transcend traditional music boundaries and create something extraordinary.
As a songwriter, Nico penned lyrics that were deeply personal and infused with raw emotion. Her songs often painted vivid pictures of her life experiences, with themes ranging from love and loss to existential angst. This ability to express complex emotions through her songwriting further solidified Nico’s position as an influential figure in the music industry.
Nico’s journey as an actress also deserves mention. Despite facing challenges due to her heavy German accent, she managed to make an impression with her performances, most notably in Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita.
The magic of Nico lies in her versatility as an artist and her unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of creative expression. Her musical brilliance continues to inspire artists today, proving that Nico’s legacy is far from forgotten. Her story serves as a testament to the power of authenticity in art, reminding us that true brilliance often lies in the courage to be different.
Last week we had an introduction to the Brumberg Sisters, and this week we have another great film by the duo, featuring one of the scariest characters of folklore, Baba-Yaga. While this fairy tale, and others, portray her as a child-hunting witch, there are some different renditions of Baba-Yaga.
In Slavic folklore, Baba-Yaga is typically portrayed as an enchantress who lives in a hut in the forest, and is known as a either a villain, a donor, or a completely ambiguous character. In Berkeley professor Andreas Johns’s book Baba Yaga: The Ambiguous Mother and Witch of the Russian Folktale, he describes her as “a many-faceted figure, capable of inspiring researchers to see her as a Cloud, Moon, Death, Winter, Snake, Bird, Pelican or Earth Goddess, totemic matriarchal ancestress, female initiator, phallic mother, or archetypal image.”
This take on the Russian folktale of Baba-Yaga, the short animation Ivashka and Baba-Yaga, was made in 1938 by the Brumberg Sisters, who really were pioneers of Soviet animation, making films as early as the mid 1920’s.
Valentina Semyonovna Brumberg was born on August 2, 1899, and Zinaida Semyonovna Brumberg was born on the same day, August 2, in the year 1900, both born in their Jewish family in Moscow. Also known as the “Grandmothers of Soviet Animation,” together the two sisters created, directed, and produced about 50 films. The first film they ever worked on together was as contributors for the 1925 cutout film China in Flames. It was one of the world’s first animated feature films.
Some of their most well-known films include The Samoyed Boy, which was their first hand-drawn animation, The Tale of Tsar Saltan, Little Red Riding Hood, The Lost Letter, The Island of Mistakes, The Night Before Christmas, and It Was I Who Drew the Little Man.
Ivashka and Baba-Yaga
At the beginning of Ivashka and Baba-Yaga, Ivashka goes on his first fishing trip by himself, and when he does, he finds an adventure awaits him.
After fishing for a while, Ivashka’s mother brings him food and sings to him to come and eat. When Baba-Yaga sees this, she tries to lure Ivashka by singing to him in the voice of his mother, but young Ivashka is not easily fooled, and knows that Baba-Yaga is dangerous and is really the one calling him, and he sails away.
Ivashka and Baba-Yaga
So the old woman gets a different voice from the blacksmith in hopes to trick Ivashka into coming into her hut, to be baked in her oven. She uses the voice on Ivashka and then hides behind the bushes. When he walks on shore, she jumps out and grabs him. However, once in her house, Ivashka comes up with a plan of his own.
Here is Ivashka and Baba-Yaga (Ивашко и Баба-Яга), a musical animation made in 1938, written and directed by Valentinaand Zinaida Brumberg.
Click “cc” for subtitles.
Soviet Film Wednesday celebrates the artistry of Soviet filmmakers and in no way endorses the war in Ukraine.
Barbara | William Larson | Smithsonian American Art Museum
William Larson is a name that resonates in the realm of contemporary photography. Born on this day October 14, 1942 in North Tonawanda, New York, Larson is recognized for his pioneering work with conceptual pieces and his innovative use of sequential images to explore themes of time, movement, and change. His profound understanding of the photographic medium, coupled with his exceptional technical skills, has carved a distinctive niche for Larson in the world of photography.
Untitled, Firefly Series, November 18, 1971, Electro-carbon print | William Larson | Glitterman Gallery
Larson’s photographic journey began at the Institute of Design in Chicago, where he received his Master of Science in Photography. The institute’s rigorous curriculum and its emphasis on merging technology with artistry had a significant influence on Larson’s development as a photographer. His early works showcased his fascination with time-based media, as he experimented with techniques such as time-lapse photography and multiple exposures.
Throughout his career, Larson has consistently pushed the boundaries of conventional photography by incorporating digital technology into his work. His most notable series, Fireflies, is a testament to this. In this series, Larson used a custom-built electronic device to translate sound into abstract images on photographic paper, thus capturing the essence of invisible phenomena through visual means.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, William Larson’s contributions to the field extend to academia as well. As the founder of the Photography Program at Tyler School of Art, Temple University, he has fostered a platform for aspiring photographers to explore and experiment with various photographic techniques.
William Larson is not just a photographer; he is an innovator and an educator. Through his unique approach to photography and his relentless quest for exploring new dimensions in the field, Larson has contributed to the world of contemporary photography. His work serves as an inspiration for many emerging photographers and stands as a testament to the endless possibilities that this medium holds.
The world of illustration has seen many brilliant artists, but few have left as profound an impact as Serge Clerc. Known for his distinctive and captivating style, Clerc’s work is characterized by its intricate detail, vivid colors, and unique fusion of pop culture references with a classic comic book aesthetic. His illustrations not only resonate with the viewers but also create an immersive experience that transports them into a world of his creation.
Born on this day October 12, 1957 in Roanne, France, Serge Clerc’s artistic journey began in the late 1970s when he started working for the French magazine Métal Hurlant. His work quickly caught the attention of the public and critics alike with its unique blend of punk culture and science fiction elements. His illustrations were not just visually stunning but also told compelling stories, making them a favorite among readers.
Clerc’s style evolved over the years, moving from the punk-inspired art of his early career to a more refined and sophisticated aesthetic. His illustrations became synonymous with elegance and class, characterized by their sleek lines, bold colors, and a keen attention to detail. However, despite the evolution in his style, one thing remained constant – his ability to captivate audiences with his artistic brilliance.
The illustrations of Serge Clerc are not just pieces of art; they are windows into his imagination. Each illustration tells a story, each character has a life of its own, and every detail contributes to the overall narrative. Through his work, Clerc invites us into his world – a world that is both familiar and fantastical, real and surreal.
The artistic brilliance of Serge Clerc is undeniable. With his captivating illustrations, he has made a mark on the world of illustration. His art is not just visually stunning but also emotionally engaging, making it both a feast for the eyes and the soul.
The Bed Quilt | Henry Niese | oil on canvas | Smithsonian American Art Museum
Henry Niese, a painter and photographer, played an instrumental role in preserving and promoting the rich culture of Native American tribes through his extraordinary works of art. Born on this day October 11, 1924 in Jersey City, New Jersey, Niese was steeped in the spiritual practices and traditional rituals of Native Americans, which significantly influenced his style of painting. His work is characterized by earthy colors, complex patterns, and symbolic imagery, reflecting the essence of Native American culture.
Niese’s contribution to the preservation of indigenous culture is not just limited to his paintings. He also founded the Eagle Voice Center, a cultural institution dedicated to the research, promotion, and preservation of Native American heritage. The center serves as a platform for education and awareness about the indigenous tribes and their traditions, thereby fostering understanding and respect for their culture.
Henry Niese’s art continues to be celebrated for its authenticity and cultural significance. His paintings offer a unique blend of traditional Native American elements with modern artistic sensibilities, creating a visual narrative that resonates with audiences across the globe. His dedication to cultural preservation through art has immortalized him as an iconic figure in Native American art, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.
Meet the Brumberg Sisters, Valentina and Zinaida Brumberg, both Moscow-born artists who worked together as animators, screenwriters, and directors, creating around 50 films in total.
Made in 1937, this is their spooky animation of Charles Perrault’s Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale. Perrault’s version was a cautionary message to children about stranger danger.
Soviet Film Wednesday celebrates the artistry of Soviet filmmakers and in no way endorses the war in Ukraine.
Autumn River Moon | Alexei Kondratievich Savrasov, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Alexei Savrasov (May 24, 1830 – October 8, 1897), a prominent 19th-century Russian painter, is revered for his exceptional ability to capture the essence of nature in his works. His painting style, often referred to as the lyrical landscape style, is characterized by a profound sense of emotional depth and a meticulous depiction of natural elements. Savrasov’s landscape paintings are not merely visual reproductions of the environment. Instead, they encapsulate the spirit, mood, and underlying essence of the natural world.
Savrasov’s journey into painting began at an early age under the guidance of an art connoisseur, and his passion for art led him to the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture. His time spent at this institution played a crucial role in refining his artistic style. It was here that Savrasov began to experiment with capturing the soul of nature in his works.
His love for the natural world is evident in his paintings such as “The Rooks Have Returned” and “Winter Night”. In these works, Savrasov masterfully uses color, lighting, and brushwork to portray the raw beauty of nature. He skillfully captures the changing seasons, the quiet stillness of a winter’s night, and the lively flurry of birds returning in spring.
Savrasov’s lyrical landscape style sets him apart from other artists of his time. His ability to evoke emotion through his depictions of nature is unparalleled. Each stroke on his canvas is made with care, mirroring the intricate details of the natural world. His paintings are immersive experiences that draw viewers into a world where nature’s beauty is captured in its purest form.
Alexei Savrasov’s landscape paintings not only showcase his technical abilities but also reveal his deep connection with nature. They serve as a testament to his belief that art is not just about representation but about capturing the very essence of the subject.
Good friends in Liguria, Italy. 1936. | Herbert List
Herbert List was a renowned German photographer known for his extraordinary contributions to the field of photography. He was born in Hamburg, Germany, on this day October 7, 1903 and exhibited an early interest in art and literature. He studied literature and art history at the University of Heidelberg and started his career as a stage designer and writer before delving into photography.
In the realm of photography, List’s work was characterized by his unique style that blended surrealism and classicism. He was largely a self-taught photographer who developed a knack for combining elements of surrealism with reality to create images that were both aesthetically pleasing and thought-provoking. His photographs, usually in black and white, displayed an unusual use of lighting and perspective that gave his work a distinct signature style.
Master and Dog, Portofino, 1939 | Herbert List
List’s early works primarily included still life and street scenes, but he later shifted his focus to more abstract themes. His vision of capturing the ‘decisive moment’ made him an influential figure in modernist photography. Despite facing persecution during the Nazi regime due to his homosexuality, List continued to produce significant work throughout his career, finding refuge in Greece and Italy.
Herbert List’s work is widely recognized for its distinctive visual language that combines the real with the surreal. Despite the many challenges he faced, he left a lasting impression on the world of photography. His work continues to inspire generations of photographers and stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft. Today, Herbert List is celebrated as a pioneering photographer who transformed the way we see and interpret the world through photography.
Bernice Johnson Reagon, an influential singer, songwriter, and scholar, has long been a pioneering voice at the intersection of folk music and social justice. Her contributions to the world of music and activism are profound and enduring. As a singer, Reagon’s powerful voice has moved audiences around the world, while her insightful songs have explored issues of race, gender, and social inequality with an eloquence that is uniquely her own.
Born on this day October 4, 1942 in Georgia, Reagon grew up in a time of racial segregation and social unrest. Her experiences informed her music and her commitment to social justice. As a young woman, she became deeply involved in the civil rights movement and used her music as a tool for change. Her songs became anthems for the movement, capturing the spirit of protest and resilience that defined the era.
Reagon’s talent as a songwriter is matched only by her scholarship. She holds a Ph.D. in History from Howard University and has used her academic expertise to further explore the themes of her music. Her work as a scholar has allowed her to delve into the historical roots of folk music and its role in social movements. She has written extensively on the subject, providing valuable insights into the intersection of music and social change.
As both a singer and a scholar, Bernice Johnson Reagon has made significant contributions to the world of folk music and social justice. Her songs continue to inspire new generations of activists, while her scholarship provides a vital understanding of the historical context of these movements. Reagon stands as a testament to the power of music as a force for change and an expression of human resilience. Her legacy is one of courage, creativity, and unwavering commitment to social justice.
Von Freeman, born Earle Lavon Freeman Sr., was a tenor saxophonist whose impact on the Chicago jazz scene and beyond was as profound as it was understated. His journey through the world of jazz is a testament to dedication, innovation, and the power of mentorship.
The Making of a Jazz Giant
Born on October 3, 1923, in Chicago, Von Freeman’s musical journey began in a home steeped in jazz. His father, a city policeman and friend of the legendary Louis Armstrong, introduced young Von to the piano and gifted him his first saxophone at the age of seven. This early exposure to music would set the stage for a lifetime of musical exploration and innovation.
“All of the great musicians ended up at Great Lakes,” Freeman once recalled, referring to his time in the Navy during World War II. “It was an incubator for the best and the brightest lights in the jazz world at that time.”
The Chicago School of Jazz
Freeman’s style became synonymous with the “Chicago School” of jazz tenors, a distinctive approach he helped forge alongside luminaries like Gene Ammons, Johnny Griffin, and Clifford Jordan. His sound was characterized by its rich, robust tone and a fearless approach to improvisation that pushed the boundaries of conventional jazz.
Freeman’s commitment to what he called “hardcore jazz” was unwavering. He once told DownBeat magazine in 2001, “I’m not interested in watering down my music. I play jazz the way it’s supposed to be played.”
The Vonski Sound
Freeman’s unique style, affectionately dubbed “Vonski” by his fans, was a blend of swinging melodicism and avant-garde experimentation. His performances were known for their emotional depth and technical brilliance, often starting with sensitively unwound ballads before building to intense, boundary-pushing improvisations.
Mentor and Guiding Light
Perhaps Freeman’s greatest legacy lies in his role as a mentor. He nurtured countless younger musicians, including Steve Coleman, Corey Wilkes, and Ben Paterson. His Monday night sessions at The Enterprise Lounge, and later, his Tuesday nights at The New Apartment Lounge, became legendary incubators for jazz talent.
Freeman’s mentorship extended beyond music. He was a cultural ambassador, bridging communities and inviting participation from all walks of life into the warmth of Chicago’s jazz scene.
Collaborations and Recordings
Despite his immense talent, Freeman’s recording career had a late start. His first album as a leader, “Doin’ It Right Now,” was released in 1972 with the support of Roland Kirk. This late bloom didn’t hinder his impact, however. Freeman went on to record several notable albums, including collaborations with his son, saxophonist Chico Freeman.
One of his most memorable recordings came late in his career. “You Talkin’ to Me,” recorded with 22-year-old saxophonist Frank Catalano, showcased Freeman’s enduring vitality and his ability to connect with younger generations of jazz musicians.
Recognition of a Jazz Master
In a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to jazz, Freeman was selected to receive the NEA Jazz Masters award, the nation’s highest jazz honor. This recognition came as a validation of his unique contribution to the art form and his unwavering commitment to musical integrity.
Von Freeman passed away on August 11, 2012, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire jazz musicians and enthusiasts around the world. His life’s work serves as a reminder of the power of staying true to one’s artistic vision and the importance of nurturing the next generation of talent.
As we remember Von Freeman, let’s celebrate the enduring spirit of jazz that he embodied. His music continues to inspire and challenge us, inviting us to listen more deeply and to embrace the unexpected.
Von Freeman’s journey through jazz is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and community. His story reminds us that true artistry knows no bounds of age or convention. As we carry his legacy forward, let’s continue to support and celebrate the vibrant jazz scenes in our own communities, nurturing the Von Freemans of tomorrow.
