Born in Zurich, Switzerland on October 18, 1903, Albert Frey is widely recognized as a master of Desert Modernism. Born and educated in Switzerland, Frey’s architectural skills were honed under the tutelage of Le Corbusier, a pioneer of modern architecture. However, it was upon his move to the United States, and specifically to Palm Springs, that …
Category: History
Apr 16 2023
What Does Tiki Mean in Hawaiian?
Aloha! If you’ve ever visited the beautiful islands of Hawaii or have an interest in Hawaiian culture, you might have come across the term “tiki” at some point. But what does tiki mean in Hawaiian? Well, let me tell you, tiki is a term that holds great significance in Hawaiian culture and traditions. In short, …
Feb 03 2023
The Day the Music Died
February 3, 1959, is etched into the annals of music history as ‘The Day the Music Died.’ This somber day saw the untimely demise of three extraordinary musicians: Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, in a tragic plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa. Their loss was not just a personal tragedy …
Nov 25 2022
The Artistry and History of Stained Glass: Exploring a Timeless Craft
Step back in time and discover the mesmerizing world of stained glass. This timeless craft has been captivating hearts and minds for centuries, combining intricate designs with the play of light and color. From the grandeur of medieval cathedrals to the subtle beauty of Tiffany lamps, stained glass has left a mark on the art …
Sep 18 2022
The Inspiration Behind “Hey Jude”
On this day September 18, 1996, Julian Lennon made the winning bid of just over $39,000 (£21,000) at Sotheby’s in London for the recording notes for the song “Hey Jude,” which Paul McCartney wrote for young Julian to comfort and encourage him during his parents’ divorce. Originally titled “Hey Jules,” Paul McCartney comments on the song’s …
Feb 22 2022
The Real Story of Tiki Totem Poles as Ancestry Preservation
We are used to the words “totem pole” to mean those long poles with carved figures on them. Usually we see totem poles with wings from birds or other animals. But in the Pacific islands, these pole structures are called Tiki poles or Tiki totem poles. Tiki totem poles from the islands of the Pacific …
Feb 05 2022
The Ukulele: Made Famous by Tiki
Originally, the ukulele was brought to Hawaii from the West. However, it was Hawaii and Tiki music that actually made the ukulele a mainstream instrument, and an instrument synonymous with Tiki music. When we think back of Hawaiian music, it is hard to imagine this music without the cheerful sound of the ukulele. This is …
Jan 29 2022
Experience the Beautiful Hawaiian Language
Because of the recent Tiki resurgence, there is also a renewed interest in the Hawaiian language. And, with Southwest Airlines adding direct flights to Hawaii from Los Angeles, it seems the interest in Hawaii and all things Tiki has been felt in the corporate world even affecting recent travel to the Islands. The Hawaiian language …
Aug 17 2021
Is the Tiki Kitsch Craze Innocent Fun or Exploitation of Culture?
When Trader Vic invented his now famous Tiki cocktails in fun whimsical Tiki head souvenir glasses with curly straws and tons of rum, there was not any thought as to sensitivity to the Hawaiian culture that might exist if it were today. Think of it like this. What if a bar were started with a …
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