In Birthnight, Night visits young Tima, a boy who sleeps with the light on because he is afraid of the dark, and she invites him to her nighttime birthday party in the woods.
If the story doesn’t sound intriguing enough, the eccentric synth music of Eduard Artemyev is sure to transport you to another world, the realm of Night. The electronic composer also did film scores for Solaris, Stalker, Siberiade, and Burnt by the Sun.
Birthnight
The 1980 stop-motion animation was directed by Rozaliya Zelma, who had worked mainly on drawn animations until Birthnight (Ночь рождения). The story was written by Aleksandr Kostinskiy.
Brigitte Bardot, an iconic French actress, singer, and model, is as renowned for her contribution to the film industry as she is for her tireless advocacy for animal rights. Born in Paris on this day September 28, 1934, she began her career as a model at the age of 15 and quickly gained recognition for her striking beauty. Bardot transitioned into acting and emerged as a global sex symbol in the late 1950s and 1960s, starring in films like And God Created Woman that catapulted her into international stardom. Her effortless charm, insouciant style, and undeniable talent helped define the era’s cinematic landscape.
However, Bardot’s legacy extends beyond her accolades as an actress and model. In the latter part of her career, she became known for her fierce advocacy for animal rights. Devoting herself fully to this cause after retiring from the entertainment industry in 1973, Bardot established the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986. The foundation’s mission is to advocate for animal rights, undertake rescue operations, and raise awareness about animal suffering worldwide.
Bardot has consistently used her platform to bring global attention to issues relating to animal rights. She has taken on the fur industry, campaigned against bullfighting and the slaughter of seals, and has been instrumental in pushing for legislation against animal cruelty. Her unyielding commitment to animal rights has often put her at odds with societal norms and even led to legal battles. Yet, she remains unwavering in her dedication.
Brigitte Bardot’s life and legacy is a testament to the power of using one’s influence for a cause greater than oneself. From a sex symbol to an animal rights activist, she has lived a life marked by passion and conviction. Her contributions to both the entertainment industry and animal rights advocacy have deeply influenced society.
Marjorie in the Garden (1903) | platinum print | Smithsonian American Art Museum | John G. Bullock
Born on this day September 27, 1854, renowned photographer John G. Bullock was a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for his profound contribution to the field of pictorialist photography. His work, often described as ‘poetic imagery’, was a testament to his artistic vision and ability to imbue seemingly ordinary scenes with profound emotion and depth. Bullock’s photographic style was characterized by his use of soft-focus techniques, which lent an almost ethereal quality to his images, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.
John G. Bullock was an influential member of the New School of American photography. His work with the New School was instrumental in advancing the notion that photography could be more than just a means of documentation—it could be a form of fine art. Bullock’s unique approach to photography, combining technical mastery with a distinct visual aesthetic, helped cement this belief and transformed the way we perceive photography today.
Bullock’s photographs are akin to paintings on canvas, with each image carefully constructed and composed to convey a specific mood or narrative. His use of soft-focus techniques was not merely for aesthetic purposes, but served as a tool for expressing deeper meanings. This approach allowed him to create images that were both visually stunning and emotionally evocative, capturing the viewer’s imagination and inviting them to delve deeper into the stories hidden within each frame.
In the history of country music legends, few stars shine as brightly as Marty Robbins. A master storyteller with a voice as smooth as Tennessee whiskey, Robbins changed the landscape of the genre, particularly through his unforgettable Western ballads. Let’s saddle up and ride through the remarkable life and career of this country music icon, focusing on his breakthrough in the 1950s that set the stage for his legendary status.
The Early Trail
Born Martin David Robinson on September 26, 1925, in Glendale, Arizona, young Marty grew up in a world where the Old West was still a recent memory. Raised in a tough environment, music became his escape and eventually, his calling. Little did he know that the dusty streets of his childhood would later inspire some of the most vivid musical narratives in country music history.
The 1950s: A Star Rises in the Desert Sky
The 1950s marked Robbins’ ascent to country music stardom, a journey as thrilling as the tales he would later spin in his songs. In 1952, he signed with Columbia Records, a partnership that would last for the rest of his career. It was during this decade that Robbins began to shape his unique sound, blending traditional country with influences from rockabilly and pop.
His breakthrough came in 1956 with the release of “Singing the Blues.” The song shot to the top of the country charts and crossed over to the pop charts, introducing Robbins to a broader audience. This success was quickly followed by another number-one hit, “A White Sport Coat (and a Pink Carnation)” in 1957, solidifying his status as a rising star.
But it was Robbins’ venture into Western ballads that would define his career and secure his place in country music history.
The Gunfighter Ballads: Painting the Wild West with Words
In 1959, Marty Robbins released the album that would become his magnum opus: Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs. This collection of Western-themed songs showcased Robbins’ storytelling prowess and his ability to transport listeners to a bygone era of cowboys, outlaws, and frontier justice.
The crown jewel of this album was “El Paso,” a epic tale of love and death in the Old West. With its vivid imagery and dramatic narrative, “El Paso” became Robbins’ signature song, earning him a Grammy Award and remaining a beloved classic to this day.
A Trail of Achievements
Marty Robbins’ career was studded with remarkable achievements:
Multiple Grammy Awards: Including one for “El Paso” in 1961
Numerous #1 Hits: Over 15 number-one country hits throughout his career
Crossover Success: Several songs charted on both country and pop charts
Country Music Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1982, cementing his legendary status
The Man Behind the Music
Despite his larger-than-life persona on stage, Marty Robbins was known for his humility and down-to-earth nature. He was an avid race car driver, competing in NASCAR races when he wasn’t performing. This passion for speed and danger perhaps informed the vivid, adrenaline-pumping narratives in many of his songs.
A Lasting Legacy
Marty Robbins’ influence on country music and particularly the Western ballad subgenre cannot be overstated. His ability to paint pictures with words and melodies inspired countless musicians to explore narrative songwriting.
Today, decades after his passing in 1982, Marty Robbins’ music continues to captivate audiences. His songs remain a staple on classic country radio, and new generations of listeners continue to discover the magic of his storytelling.
As we look back on the career of Marty Robbins, particularly his breakthrough in the 1950s, we’re reminded of a time when country music was as much about storytelling as it was about melody. Robbins didn’t just sing songs; he created worlds, characters, and emotions that continue to resonate with listeners today.
Andrei Khrzhanovsky directs this mystical Russian animation from 1972, Butterfly, about a boy and the butterflies he catches. One day, the tables turn, and the boy finds himself caught by a giant butterfly.
Born on this day September 24, 1957, Ilgvars Zalāns’ artistic journey is a testament to the power of cross-cultural inspiration. His work bears the unmistakable influence of the Gutai group and the Fluxus movement, yet it remains uniquely his own. Over the years, Zalāns has evolved from traditional expressionism to the dynamic realm of action painting, a shift that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Since 2007, Zalāns has embarked on an extraordinary 33-country world tour, showcasing his action-painting performances. This global odyssey has not only broadened his artistic horizons but also spread his influence far beyond his Latvian roots. In fact, Zalāns’ art has found particularly enthusiastic reception in Indonesia, Malaysia, China, and Japan, often overshadowing his recognition in his homeland.
What sets Zalāns apart is his focus on the universal human experience. His canvases are populated with archetypal images and motifs that resonate across cultural boundaries. This approach has earned him a place in prestigious international art fairs, including Scope Basel, Scope Miami Beach, and Art Copenhagen.
Despite his global success, Zalāns hasn’t forgotten his roots. His works regularly grace exhibitions in Latvia, bridging the gap between his international acclaim and his national heritage.
As we look to the future of contemporary art, Ilgvars Zalāns stands as a shining example of how local inspiration can fuel global admiration. His journey from Latvia to the world stage is a testament to the universal language of art and the boundless potential of artistic expression.
Remember when the future looked like a utopia of flying cars, robot maids, and meals at the push of a button? If you’re feeling a twinge of nostalgia, you’re not alone. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the beloved animated series that captured our imaginations and shaped our visions of the future – The Jetsons.
A Blast from the Past: The Jetsons’ Debut
On September 23, 1962, families across America gathered around their television sets to witness the premiere of a show that would become a cultural phenomenon. The Jetsons burst onto our screens in vivid color, introducing us to a world set in 2062 – exactly 100 years in the future.
Created by Hanna-Barbera, the masterminds behind The Flintstones, The Jetsons was initially broadcast during prime time on ABC. Though its original run lasted only one season, the show’s popularity soared in syndication, leading to new episodes in the 1980s and cementing its place in the hearts of multiple generations.
The Jetsons family: (left to right, top row) Rosie (the robot maid), George, Jane, and Judy; (bottom row) Astro (the dog), Elroy. | Wikipedia
Meet the Family of the Future
At the heart of the show was the Jetson family, living in their futuristic Skypad Apartments:
George Jetson: The lovable, often-befuddled patriarch who worked at Spacely Space Sprockets
Jane Jetson: The fashionable and savvy matriarch
Judy Jetson: The boy-crazy teenage daughter
Elroy Jetson: The precocious young son
Astro: The family’s loyal, talking dog
But perhaps the most iconic member of the Jetson household wasn’t a Jetson at all…
Rosie the Robot: The Maid of Our Dreams
Who could forget Rosie, the sassy robotic maid with a heart of gold? With her blue metal body, frilly apron, and witty comebacks, Rosie captured our hearts and imaginations. She was more than just a household appliance; she was a beloved member of the family, offering a glimpse into a future where technology and humanity coexisted in perfect harmony.
Rosie represented the dream of effortless housekeeping, but she also showed us that even in a world of advanced technology, there’s no substitute for personality and heart.
Fantastic Futuristic Gadgets
The Jetsons’ world was filled with incredible inventions that seemed like pure fantasy in the 1960s. Let’s revisit some of the most memorable:
🚗 Flying Cars
George’s daily commute in his personal flying car was the envy of every viewer stuck in traffic. With a push of a button, the car would fold into a briefcase upon arrival – talk about compact parking!
📞 Video Calls
Long before Zoom or FaceTime, The Jetsons showed us a world where face-to-face communication was possible across vast distances. Jane’s video calls with her friends seemed like science fiction then, but are now an everyday reality.
🍽 The Food-a-Rac-a-Cycle
Who needs to cook when you have a machine that can produce any meal at the touch of a button? The Food-a-Rac-a-Cycle was every busy parent’s dream, promising delicious meals without the fuss.
The Jetsons’ Impact on Pop Culture
The Jetsons Get Schooled | The Smithsonian Magazine
The Jetsons didn’t just entertain us; it shaped our expectations of the future. The show’s optimistic vision of a technologically advanced society continues to influence designers, inventors, and dreamers to this day.
From smart homes to AI assistants, many of the conveniences we enjoy today seem to have sprung directly from the world of The Jetsons. The show’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture our collective imagination and hope for a brighter, more convenient future.
A Future to Remember
As we look back on The Jetsons, we’re reminded of a time when the future seemed full of endless possibilities. While we may not have flying cars (yet), the show’s legacy lives on in the technology we use every day and the dreams we still hold for tomorrow.
So the next time you video call a friend, ask your smart home assistant for help, or dream about a robot to do your chores, take a moment to thank The Jetsons for giving us a future to look forward to.
What are your favorite memories of The Jetsons? Did any of their futuristic predictions come true in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the nostalgia flying high!
Muhal Richard Abrams (1930-2017) was a pioneering force in avant-garde jazz. From his humble beginnings in Chicago to his role as a revered elder statesman of jazz, Abrams’ journey is a testament to the power of musical exploration and community-building.
The Early Spark
Born on September 19, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, young Richard Abrams found his calling in music at an early age. Despite being largely self-taught, his passion for piano and composition drove him to master multiple instruments and delve deep into the world of musical theory.
Forging New Paths in Jazz
In the 1950s and early 1960s, Abrams honed his craft in Chicago’s vibrant jazz scene. His unique approach began to take shape as he blended traditional jazz elements with experimental techniques. This period saw Abrams developing his distinctive style, characterized by:
Complex harmonic structures
Innovative rhythmic patterns
Unconventional instrument combinations
The Birth of AACM
In 1965, Abrams co-founded the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), a collective that would revolutionize the Chicago jazz scene and beyond. This organization became a crucible for avant-garde jazz, nurturing talents like Anthony Braxton and Roscoe Mitchell.
A Musical Innovator
Abrams’ musical style was a bold fusion of jazz, classical, and experimental elements. His approach to composition and improvisation was marked by:
Instrument Preferences: While piano was his primary instrument, Abrams was known for incorporating a wide range of sounds, from traditional jazz instruments to electronic elements.
Avant-Garde Jazz: He pushed the boundaries of jazz, exploring atonal harmonies and free-form structures.
Composition Techniques: Abrams developed unique methods, often using graphic scores and conceptual frameworks to guide performances.
Improvisation Methods: His improvisational style was characterized by spontaneous composition, blurring the lines between written and improvised music.
Legacy and Impact
Muhal Richard Abrams’ influence extended far beyond his performances and recordings. As an educator and mentor, he shaped generations of musicians, encouraging them to push boundaries and find their unique voices.
His numerous accolades, including becoming the first recipient of the prestigious Doris Duke Impact Award in 2014, stand as a testament to his contributions to the world of music.
Abrams passed away on October 29, 2017, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike. His life’s work serves as a reminder of the endless possibilities in music when one dares to explore beyond conventional boundaries.
Muhal Richard Abrams’ journey from a self-taught musician to a jazz visionary exemplifies the power of creativity, perseverance, and community. His story continues to resonate, inspiring new generations to explore the frontiers of musical expression.
Here’s a little treat for this Wednesday: a jam ad created for Russian Sugar directed by Yuri Norstein. It was one of a group of Russian Sugar commercials made by Norstein between 1994 and 1995 that used cutouts and drawings for the animations (a bit past the Soviet era but still delightful and created by beloved Soviet-born Norstein, so I couldn’t pass it up).
Norstein won a breakthrough prize at the 1996 1st Open Russian Festival of Animated Film for the half minute commercial.
The music in the ad is from Corelli’s “Sonata in E Minor, op.2, no.4 – 1.-4. Preludio – Allemanda – Grave – Giga.”
The unique artistic style of Raymond White Skolfield, a renowned artist of the 20th century, emerged as a remarkable fusion of visionary realism. Skolfield’s work, primarily in the medium of lithograph, is imbued with a sense of realism that captures the essence of his subjects with striking precision and detail. Yet, there is an element of the visionary in his work, an ability to infuse everyday scenes and objects with an ethereal quality that transcends the ordinary.
Born on this day, September 17, 1909, in Portland, Maine, Skolfield’s meticulous attention to detail and his deft use of light and shadow lend his lithographs a photographic quality. But it is his ability to capture the spirit, the unseen essence of his subjects, that sets him apart from other realist artists. His work reflects a profound understanding and appreciation of nature, architecture, and human forms, manifesting in an artistic style that is both grounded in reality and yet pushes the boundaries of interpretation.
Caravan Theatre (1937) | lithograph on paper | Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Jean Nichols
His works are not just mere representations of reality but rather they invite viewers into a deeper contemplation of the subject matter. Each artwork by Raymond White Skolfield is a journey into visionary realism, an exploration of the tangible world through an artist’s lens that is at once real and imagined. His unique artistic style has made a lasting impression on the world of art and continues to inspire artists and art lovers alike.
