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crushzone · 3 years

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Hi Nin! I know this might be weird of me to ask because you are an artist yourself, but I am rather new here and was wondering if you have any other artists you'd recommend? If not that is ok!

Hi there, not weird at all! I LOVE supporting fellow artists, I find their wonderful talent and dedication incredibly inspiring, seeing their beautiful works on my feed constantly reminds me to take a step back from my exhaustion and to simply remember why I love to draw to begin with: because it’s fun.

I’m usually really picky about artists I follow and their style, but when I find the ones that I enjoy, I go ALL OUT with my support. So without further ado, the following artists listed are those I am not only in love with, but those who I genuinely look up to.

So make sure you stop by their page to show them some love and appreciation for their hard work (because hard work extends beyond the individual pieces they’ve made, it’s also for the countless hours they’ve spent on practicing and perfecting their craft, constantly challenging themselves to learn new techniques). 💛

👇🏼👇🏼 Nin’s Artist Recommendation👇🏼👇🏼

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@aku-jumbi - HQ!!, Various, You all had seen me share a BUNCH of their works on my blog, but it’s just because their art is so SOOOOOOOOO good. Your style leans toward photorealism, while still maintaining its painting-like quality, so if you had ever wondered how your favorite characters may look like irl, they’ve got you!!! Watching your speed painting is so fascinating, idk how you do it, but you’re always killing it every time (Like our process is so different, so it was really interesting to see how you approach your works you know?). This piece of Kei Tsukishima and Oikawa Tooru are two of my favorite works you’ve done!

@achieve-the-sun - HQ!!, Various, Let me start off by saying that I love Morghy’s art so much, that they are the first and only person I had ever commissioned from so far. They drew Keishin and I sooo adorably, it brings me so much joy to look at it on the daily. Your style reminds me of freshly baked cookies, or the warmth of bakeries, I can’t help but feel a sense of coziness whenever I look at your adorable artworks. This piece you did of Kageyama and Hinata was what had drawn me to you. Everything from your color choices, fluid gestures, and expressions are such a delight to look at!

@chaotickatts - HQ!! I am so in love with Katts, you all. I had never seen anyone draw like this, her style is really unique. I can go on forever about why I love your art, but one of the biggest things that drew me to your style is the way you draw bodies. I like the variation and realistic details you include, for instance, I absolutely adore the way you gave Sakusa more moles on his body, and the way you drew dad bod Osamu. Idk, I think there’s so many different types of body shapes and details out there, and it brings me joy to see you being so inclusive of them in your art.

@namusw - Hunter x Hunter. Was drawn to their Hunter x Hunter works and I don’t even watch/read that manga. Honestly, just check them out, I love everything about their works, they are also a killer at both traditional and digital styles. This piece of Hisoka, Illumi, and Chrollo was the one that made me fall in love.

@cranbearly - HQ!! I really adore the way they draw expressions and their coloring style (inspired me to attempt some flat coloring). This piece of Oikawa and Iwa made me follow them instantly. Expressions are so difficult to nail, and you’ve done such an amazing job conveying every emotion the characters are feeling, I’ve learned so much just from looking at your works, so thank you for blessing us with your craft.

@a-zebra-was-here - HQ!! Their art has a very carefree type of vibe and their coloring style brings me so much joy. I’ve really enjoyed your drawings of the Miyas’, this piece of the twin was what got me, and this other piece, the first image of young Miyas’ was so SO well done, I am in love with the way you colored that. 😻

@erionmakuo - Various, dude....I want to cry, I don’t even know what to say, EVERY SINGLE PIECE of your artworks just BLOWS ME AWAY. The way you color your art is just so ethereal, the color schemes you had chosen, the way you mix the color of your lighting, textures, and everything in general, I can go on about this all day but just hop on to their blog and you will know exactly what I mean. I don’t have a particular piece that drew me in because I was blessed by all your works at once.

@uranarino - HQ!!, Your artworks bring me so much joy. If I have to describe your style like an experience in life, I would say it reminds me of how it’s like to fall in love with someone for the first time, if that makes sense. That sudden overwhelming feeling you get when you’re doing the most mundane things with someone you care about, only for time to stop as you realize how in love you are with them? Yea, your art captures that really well. These two pieces of Kuroo returning home with his groceries and of him taking a day nap with his cats was what had drawn me to you.

@queenoftheantz - HQ!!, Various, Their style is really unique, it kind of reminds me of an adventurous graphic novel or something you would see on Cartoon Network (idk, I thought of Chowder, but please, I really mean it as a compliment, I just really love the fun cartoon style you have.) They also do some animations! I really love this piece of Kyotani you did, the landscape and colors look SOO GOOD!!

@noodlemanjpg - HQ!!, Various, love LOVE your style and the way you draw expressions. I also really love how you color, your works “appear” effortless, but I know a lot of knowledge and precision is put into crafting it. This piece of Kuroo x Yaku being all cozy at the couch was what had drawn me to your blog, it makes me smile every time I look at it. Kuroo’s smitten expression is just...ahsdl;adjs I can’t help but smile with him.

@diabolism666 - HQ!!, c’mon, you can’t be in the HQ!! fandom without at least seeing one of their artworks. In fact, I had seen your art even before I’ve gotten into this show, and it was love at first sight, lemme tell ya. EVERY. SINGLE. THING. you had drawn are so good, it doesn’t even matter if it’s a more simplistic drawing or elaborate one, I am just always staring at it in awe. Thank you for being so incredibly active about it too, idk how, but you’ve produced so many amazing drawings and we’re just incredibly grateful for it. You draw some of best Tendou, Reon and Toshi out there. Your works have so much range, I really feel like you can draw ANYTHING hahaha.

@viria - Various, Viria *sobs* your works are so good. The way you draw faces and affection just gives me butterflies. I don’t even watch Fullmetal Alchemist, but this piece you did of Edward and Winry made me fall so deeply in love with your works. Your style has a certain softness to it, even when it is of an angry character, and I love it.

@nipuni - Various, another artist that I am incredibly nervous to tag because your works are just out of the world. You also seem so so nice and is always incredibly helpful whenever anyone sends you an ask. Just...I have the biggest crush on you and your works. EVERYTHING you had drawn is so stunning, and I mean it. The details, pose, composition, and coloring, it is just so perfect, I could pull up particular artworks, but I was really blessed by it all at once. If you are into fantasy-esque realistic looking portraits, check her out, she exudes so much knowledge and talent.

@hinamihere - HQ!!, Your artworks are soo stinkin adorable. Your color choices, expressions and the way you draw hair is just so cute, your art always bring the biggest smile to my face. This piece you did of Akaashi and Bokuto was what drew me to you, when I saw it, I “awhhh”ed so loudly, my hubby had to ask me what’s up, and when I showed it to him, he had the same reaction, even if he’d never seen Haikyuu!!

@oxxuri - BNHA, so SO good, the way you color, light, and draw is so beautiful. Every single detail, down to every lashes and strands of hair is so beautiful. You draw some of the most attractive faces I had ever seen, these drawings of Aizawa and Midoriya brings me so SOOOO much joy, and I don’t even know anything about BNHA.

@amezure - HQ!!, their comic strips always make my day, I was giving their blog a peep so I can pull up specific examples and my statement is instantly confirmed when I stumbled across their newest comic art of Kuroo and Bokuto and started laughing HAHA. 😂 Your self study sheets are incredibly informative and I find myself referencing them often, it’s so nice to see my favorite artists continue to polish their craft through endless amounts of studying, practice, and analysis. It serves as a constant reminder for myself to do the same. I love the way you draw people (check out this piece of Bokuto x Akaashi), but I ESPECIALLY love the way you draw animals. (Specifically anything that has to do with lil owl Bo and Akaashi 🥺)

@obobro - Avatar the Last Airbender, HQ!!, I am absolutely in love with the way you color and draw portraits. Your drawing and detailing has so much range; you have a series of hand drawings, and that alone already displays so SO much range. I was really drawn in by this drawing of Tsukki, Zuka + Azula, and of Sokka + Katara, you can really tell they were related and I love it so much. Your art has so much life to it, it’s truly fascinating.

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I have a couple more artists to recommend, so if you’d like a part 2 to this, please lmk.

But yes, I genuinely stand by my recommendations, these guys are so SO good at what they do and I am currently sweating because the thought of tagging all my artist crushes in one post is actually kinda scary lol.

Hope this helps! ✌️

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theartworksinc · 4 years

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Meet The Artists – Mary Woodin

Suffolk based Illustrator Mary Woodin has been with The Artworks for over 30 years. Joining the agency just after she graduated the RCA, Mary’s distinctive and traditional style has seen her work with clients such as Waitrose, Marks and Spencer, Wedgwood and The National Trust (just to name a few!).

Mary’s Favourite Project, since joining The Artworks, has been her Illustrated book ‘The Painted Garden’. “The first book I wrote and illustrated, ‘The Painted Garden’, was very special because it was a) my first book b) I had complete free reign over its content and c) I painted and hand lettered every single page. More importantly it gave me a love for recording and diarising my surroundings and led to The Painted Garden Cookbook, in which I wrote recipes using the ingredients I was growing in my country garden.”

We spoke to Mary to hear more about her life as an Artist…

Where do you live?

I live in Suffolk, in a crooked old farmhouse surrounded by fields and orchards, near the quaint and ancient market town of Eye… (heads up, early closing on Tuesdays, and a fish van on Fridays, if you should be visiting!)

Where is your studio located?

I share a light and airy studio in the garden with my artist husband.

The commute is 62 paces down the garden path, and usually involves a catch up with the chickens and a detour into the greenhouse.

Can you describe your creative process?

I work with good old tubes of watercolour paint, brushes, coloured pencils, pen and ink etc. I simply love the tactile quality of moving colour around on paper. There’s no doubt though, a bit of additional jiggery pokery in photoshop has saved many a piece of artwork. Increasingly I’ll paint separate elements and put them together in photoshop to give me more flexibility with composition and scale.

What does a typical working day look like?

My working day starts with ten minutes of stretches, a freshly laid egg and strong black coffee.

I’ll glance at my ‘to do’ list, and push it aside, again. If I’m starting a new project I might well mooch round the garden for reference material but then I’m basically sat at my desk all day! Great view though… over the pond fringed by Dawn Redwoods, an Indian bean tree and American Oak and visited by an itinerant gang of gossiping ducks.

Lunch in the summer months will be a handful of salad leaves from the garden, eaten outside under my personal palm tree. In winter I’ll be hunched over a bowl of homemade soup.

Do you listen to music or the radio whilst you work? If so, what’s on your playlist?

I listen to Radio 3 while I’m working, it’s become a comfort blanket, but if they dare to play Philip Glass or Steve Reich I’ll switch to some Jan Garbarek jazz in protest. If I need to crank up the pace I might sing along to Mika full blast.

How long have you been with the Artworks for?

I’ve been with the Artworks since I left the RCA in, ahem 1988. Work that one out.

What drew you to Artworks?

Serendipity brought us together. An illustrator friend of mine came to see my final show and mentioned that his agent was looking for someone who could paint flowers! My background was in textiles and ceramics but I was young and fearless and up for a challenge, so I took my floral folio round to The Artworks the following week! The rest is history.

What books or programs did you love as a child? Have they influenced your work in any way?

I grew up in a television-less household, so spent a lot of time turning the pages of my absolute favourite book ‘The Butterfly Ball’ 1973! I can still remember every detail in the exquisite illustrations by Alan Aldridge. I guess a fascination with detail is innate within me and definitely comes through in my own work. A generation later I have loved reconnecting with picture books through my own children… John Burningham won my heart.

If you weren’t an artist, what would you be instead?

Ohhh definitely a chef… or a garden designer, I’m as passionate about food and plants, as I am paint and paper.

What was the most important lesson your learned at Art School, if you went!

At art school we were brow beaten into drawing plants one day a week. That discipline of observing and drawing, not just plants, has stuck with me.

What inspires you the most to create?

I am surrounded by the wonderful light, and colour of the countryside, which seeps under your skin through osmosis. A lot of what I create aims to capture the essence of that beauty. However, I get very excited by hugely contrasting trips to the city and enjoy scribbling that buzz down on paper too.

Name three artists that you admire

Off the top of my head, David Hockney big time, John Nash, Glynn Boyd Harte… but there are soooo many more.

What kind of commissions do you enjoy the most?

I love something that chimes with my passions, so all things ‘nature’ is a safe bet. I relish designing packaging across a range of products or getting thoroughly involved in a book project.

What would your dream commission be?

Right now I’m enjoying drawing urban architecture and country house interiors; I would love to turn that into a book project somehow.

Do you have any pets? If so, what and what are they called?

Two cats, Lily and Frostie, seven chickens, Ziggy, Marley, Beth (Chatto), Gertrude (Jekyll), Brownie 1, 2, and 3. I’m on the lookout for more Muscovy ducks to replace Ted, Maud and Toby who got eaten by a pesky fox. But then again… we ate our pig Joan!

What 5 things could you not live without?

My sourdough starter, my vegetable plot, sunshine, my running shoes, lemons.

What is your very favourite meal?

Impossible question for a foodie, can only narrow it down by saying definitely savoury…vegetables, fish, cheese.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

You’ll find me charging round our three acre garden with a wheel barrow, baking bread, cooking for friends, making curtains, covering sofas, practising ungainly moves at HIIT classes, beach-combing, and checking the local weekly auction for things I don’t really need. Or for a real break, I’ll visit my grown up kids in London and hit the galleries.

What is your current dream travel destination?

Considering the nip in the air today Arizona has shot to the top of my list.

See more of Mary’s work here.

#illustrator #meettheartist #marywoodin #meet the artist #art #the artworks #illustration #nature illustration

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clamjumper5-blog · 5 years

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A Healthy Hedonist’s Guide to Slovenia

The question I got asked the most this summer (besides why I decided to elope) was what made me choose Slovenia for our big summer trip. (And, er, where is that, again?)

The answer feels a little silly: it’s because of the Netflix show Chef’s Table. When I watched the season 2 episode featuring Ana Ros and her restaurant Hisa Franko, I was blown away by how beautiful the country looked. Sure, the cinematographers on that show could make a dingy back alley seem romantic. But there was something about the place that felt special—a secret oasis of natural wonders untouched by mass tourism, despite it being just a stone’s throw from the Italian border.

A few months later, I saw that one of my favorite Hashi Posse members, Sarah Wilson, had adventured there. Hearing her rave about the diverse scenery, eco culture, and fresh (gluten-free friendly) cuisine, put it even higher on my bucket list.

So when Charlie and I began discussing another European summer road trip earlier this spring, I thought it would be the perfect place to get the best of the mountains, alpine lakes, and Adriatic seashores—all the hot spots of the summer high season—without having to spend 50 euro a person at every meal.

The country surpassed our expectations in every way imaginable, and though we had a full 10 days to explore, it felt like we were only scratching the surface. That said, one of the hallmarks that makes Slovenia worth at least a week of your time is that you can cover so many different landscapes in a short distance.

With less than three hours of driving, you can visit the fairytale capital city of Ljubljana—with a public recycling system that’s even more impressive than its castle—laze by the water in the quaint, postcard-perfect town of Lake Bled, explore the otherworldly underground caves in Postojna, invoke your inner mountain goat in the Julian Alps, raft in the emerald waters of the Socca River, taste countless natural wines in Goriška Brda (Slovenia’s Napa), and float along the salty shores of the Mediterranean in Piran.

With a population of only 2 million, even during the busiest weekends of summer, the country still felt refreshingly empty and undeveloped. We barely heard any English speakers while we were there, and yet, due to its history, most Slovenians speak perfect English, along with several other languages.

Neighboring Italy, Austria, Hungry and Croatia, the country’s borders have been a constant moving target. Until voting overwhelmingly for independence in 1991, the country was the economic breadwinner of Yugoslavia. It was also the only present-day European nation to be completely absorbed and annexed into Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and Hungary during World War II.

Despite this tumultuous history (or perhaps because of it?), the center of Slovenian pride and culture is love. There was far more tourist regalia dedicated to the fact that it’s the only country with love literally spelled out in the name than the fact that Melania Trump came from there. More importantly, the combination of being an international nexus, with a rich landscape, and heart-led people, meant truly memorable food.

Read on for my tips on eating gluten-free in Slovenia, the best restaurants we tried, hotels with stayed in, and how to plan an epic road trip itinerary.

With health and hedonism,

Phoebe

How to Eat Gluten-Free in Slovenia

Thanks to the neighboring countries, you’ll encounter a lot of different culinary influences depending on where you are in Slovenia.

There’s the humble Hungarian-influenced peasant food that uses some combination of sausage, sauerkraut, beans and barley. Homemade pastas and Italian-style pizzerias on every corner. And no shortage of beer at the tavern-like Gostilnas across the country.

Farm-to-table local ingredients reign supreme throughout, with specialties including trout from the socca river, game meats like venison and rabbit, and all manner of wild mushrooms. If you’re a truffle lover, you might just pass out eating in Slovenia, where you can get freshly shaved truffles on appetizers that cost less than 15 euro. Take advantage of the porcini and chanterelles too!

Eating gluten-free in Slovenia was fairly easy. While servers aren’t as knowledgeable about cross-contamination and the particulars (so many thought barley was GF) as in Italy, many menus had in depth allergen indexes or icons.

Even at more rustic gostilnas (inn-restaurants), you can find some simple options like grilled trout with a side of spinachy potatoes, baked sausage with sauerkraut, grilled polenta, or a large salad with the oil and vinegar on the side to dress yourself. Plus, one of the most prevalent grains was buckwheat, which was served as risotto or a hardy side in its whole grain form.

10 Days in Slovenia: A Road Trip Itinerary

Our time in Slovenia was designed around two main events: a 3-day trek through the Julian Alps and the Socca Valley, and dinner at Hisa Franko, which we locked in before we even had plane tickets!

Below is a snapshot of our itinerary, with slight modifications for how I wish we had done things. We had a lot of guidance from our travel guru, Miha at SloTrips, and I know we wouldn’t have been able to design such a comprehensive, robust experience without him.

Especially if you’re looking for more than just day hikes, I’d highly recommend working with SloTrips to design your adventure itinerary. They can put together your whole trip for you, including arranging wineries, hotels and restaurant reservations. But if you don’t want to go all in like a traditional travel agent, I would at least recommend having them handle a hut to hut hiking experience for you, which we would have never been able to dream up or execute ourselves from the States.

Charlie and I are not ones for organized group travel. We don’t like spending most of our trip with strangers! So the self-guided option was perfect. Miha handed off a detailed packet of instructions for every stop we made on our trip and directions down to the turn for our hike so we didn’t get lost. He arranged transfers for the bikes, and to bring us back to our car when we finished. He even gave us a local smart phone with all the contacts built in, PDF’s and marked maps to follow.

Since we knew so little about Slovenia before going, it was also a treat to have someone give us a whole rundown on the history and fairytale lore behind each town we visited, and the best restaurant and local artisans to try. Miha put together an insanely comprehensive 40+ page guide for us that was like our own personalized Lonely Planet. I give full credit to him for half of the delicious things we ate listed below!

A few other notes:

We found the cheapest direct flights through Venice, which is about 2 1/2 hours by car to Ljubljana. To connect through another major city by plane would have taken roughly the same amount of time and was more expensive. We opted to design our trip around a few days in Venice on the backend, which was a fun way to round out the trip.

Instead of spending 3 nights in Piran, if we had it to do over again, we would have added a second night upfront in Ljubljana. It’s small enough to do in 24 hours, but also quite a pleasant place to ease into the trip, learn more about Slovenian culture, eat great food, and more importantly, get over your jetlag before more adventurous outdoor activities await.

Day 1: Arrive in Venice and drive to Ljubljana. Wander the canal in the afternoon and enjoy dinner at Spajza.

Day 2: In the morning, visit Central Market and explore the castle. Drive to Bled (45 minutes) in the afternoon. Walk around the perimeter of the lake. Enjoy dinner at Castle Bled Restaurant.

Day 3: Relax by the water and rent a paddle board or canoe to visit the island in the center. Do a nearby hike to visit one of the great overlooks over the water. Another option would be to rent bikes, take the train to Lake Bohinj (25 minutes), and explore that region.

Day 4 – 5: Drive to Kranjska Gora and begin hut to hut hike through the Julian Alps and into the Socca Valley.

Day 6: Finish the hike. Return to your car and drive to Kobarid in the Socca Valley. Go to Hisa Franko for dinner and stay there for the night!

Day 7: Drive to wine country and do a tasting at one of the many fabulous wineries. You can also pop over to Friuli on the Italian side. Another option is to visit the caves in Postojna. Arrive in Piran in the evening.

Day 8: Relax in Piran. Bike through Portorosso to the salt flats and dip in the Adriatic. Enjoy dinner at Pri Mari.

Day 9: Optional day trip to Croatia or unwind again by the sea in Piran.

Day 10: Return to Venice and fly home.

LJUBLJANA

What to Do and Where to Stay in Ljubljana

Though it houses a third of the population, Slovenia’s capital feels more like a town than a city. You can easily explore all the major landmarks in the old quarter in 24 hours. But it might be worth spending a second night there to try more of the fabulous restaurants and experience some of the more idiosyncratic remnants of socialism, like the pay-by-the-kilo art galleries, or cafes where you can hang out all day like it’s your home and just pay for your time when you leave.

For recommendations on great shops, music and art to check out, my friend Bianca’s article is a great guide. For more recommendations on restaurants that we didn’t have time to try, Sarah Wilson’s post is another great resource.

Hotel Cubo

We loved the sleek feel of this boutique hotel and its proximity to the center of old town. Request a room facing the castle!

Where to Eat in Ljubljana: The Best Gluten-Free Restaurants

Spajza

This restaurant on a quaint side street in old town was the perfect mix of old school Slovenian fare and refined farm-to-table cuisine. Make sure to take advantage of the extensive seasonal specials, which during our stay, included a wealth of fresh truffles (for a fraction of the price you’d find in Italy). I had a beautiful appetizer of baked scallops on the half shell with buttery chanterelles, and Charlie enjoyed mixed mushrooms and truffles with eggs. While my duck breast special was a little tough and undercooked, his entree was the real winner: bacon wrapped rabbit over a silky-smooth pea puree. It was good enough to forgive carving up one of my childhood friends alongside my spirit animal, “young horse,” which appeared multiple times on the menu as a specialty.

TaBar

Off the main canal drag, this small tapas bar is a great option for small plates or a light lunch of fresh local ingredients. The menu is well marked for allergies, and I was able to order a beautiful trout crudo with roe and grilled octopus.

Gelateria Romantika

It was a true treat to find gelato on the same level as neighboring Italy, but with inventive flavors like cucumber-lime and strawberry-basil. The former was a tart, refreshing revelation. And needless to say, there were plenty of options for dairy-free folks and vegans alike. Had I risked a little more cream before our hiking trip, I would have had the black sesame – it was insane. Sadly no GF cones, FYI.

Monstera Bistro

We didn’t manage to make it to this modern space with minimal, creative dishes. But heard great things! At dinner time the service is more formal with elaborate tasting menus. Go for lunch if you want a casual a la carte experience.

LAKE BLED

What to Do in Lake Bled

Lake Bled is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Slovenia, and can be swarmed with people during peak summer weekends. That said, it’s a relatively small town that’s mostly dominated by the lake. And since there are very few hotels and villas built around its perimeter, you can almost always find a quiet place to perch for the day.

The lake itself has garnered a lot of folklore over the years (you’ll notice there’s a lot of fairytale speak built into Slovenia’s major landmarks, in general). Besides the fairies who initially inhabited the valley and eventually flooded it to prevent the nearby shepherds from letting their flock feast off its mossy floor, the biggest lake legend involves the gold bell originally intended for the church in the center of the lake, which upon initial transport, sank to the depths, never to be recovered.

In later history, the lake has also been home to Nazi outposts during WWII, and is said to be the final resting place of several intelligence resources, and a large swath of hidden gold. Note to self: don’t leave anything in the lake that you intend to find again.

The perimeter is around 6 kilometers and has a well-groomed flat walkway along the edge that’s perfect for a light stroll. The sidewalk gets a little too congested for a pleasant bike ride during the high season (when we were there) but bikes make for a great way to get to and from dinner, since the roads themselves are even more congested. When we mapped out our journey one night, it was actually faster to walk than drive!

About a 25 minute train ride away from Bled is a second lake that’s equally beautiful and much less crowded. Sadly, we did not make it to Bohinj to confirm this, but if you have trouble finding accommodations in Bled, it would be the perfect alternative for visiting the lake region, or a second option for daytime activities, should you find Bled too mobbed.

Where to Stay in Lake Bled

Garden Village Bled

We chose to glamp at this fabulous matrix of tree houses and tents rather than opt for a traditional hotel. It’s a little pricey for what you get (and compared to some of the more formal hotels in the area), but we wouldn’t have traded the experience of sleeping by a beautiful creek, above an estuary of trout, and getting to relax by their man-made “beach” during the day. The restaurant on site is quite tasty and they source all the produce from the garden on the premises (and fish from those waterways!). Had we done it over again, we would have splurged for one of the larger tree houses cabins or tents versus the pier tents we stayed in (where you couldn’t stand up).

Vila Bled

The old country home of former Yugoslav president Tito, this beautiful villa is on the lake and includes a secluded area of beach chairs right on the water. You can also rent paddle boards and boats straight from their boathouse. We didn’t get to see the rooms, but the prices seemed reasonable given the grounds on offer.

The Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Lake Bled

Bled Castle Restaurant

You can’t beat the views at this elegant restaurant overlooking the lake. While ordinarily one might expect overpriced and uninspired fare fitting of such a tourist venue (inside the Bled Castle), instead the tasting menu is refined without being fussy. If you let them know in advance, they will also provide homemade gluten-free options, which for me included a gorgeous tart stuffed with pumpkin and fresh local mozzarella, instead of the pasta course. The highlight of an all-around tasty meal was a seared trout served with buckwheat risotto. Sadly, it rained the night we went, so we enjoyed our meal inside the modern, minimalist interior, but ordinarily, there is outdoor seating cliff-side with a perfect vantage point of the island.

Penzion Berc

Despite it being ranked as number 1 on TripAdvisor, we found this restaurant to be hit or miss. The ambiance was beautiful, housed in a courtyard garden (with a live pianist) a kilometer or so from the lakeside. The white glove service was painfully slow, and the food similarly uptight. But there were some nice dishes, including a venison main course, wild mushroom risotto, and a light, cream-free carrot soup.

Ostarijia Peglez’n

Slovenia takes its fine dining seriously, and most of the plates we ate while in the country were carefully composed. But as you know, I’m usually happier in a cozy trattoria environment. Which is one of the reasons I so enjoyed my meal at this little mom and pop fish shop. It’s a great option for a simple lunch or unfussy dinner of reasonably priced seafood. We got a fish for two served in a large roasting pan with mixed vegetables and potatoes.

Restaurant Vrtnarija (at Garden Village Bled)

If you’re looking for an unpretentious farm-to-table (or garden to table) meal, the restaurant on site of Garden Village Bled is a great option. It’s particularly fun for lunch in the daylight since you can sit in the middle of their man-made pool and feast on tables covered in live grass. Make sure to order a side salad with their beautiful fresh assorted greens. The chicken skewers with rice off the kids menu was a safe and satisfying meal after so many indulgent ones at fancier restaurants.

Sova

Unfortunately we didn’t make it to this cute wine bar just a short walk from our glamping site, but I heard great things. I wish we had tried it instead of Penzion Berc!

THE JULIAN ALPS AND THE SOCCA VALLEY

Your jumping off point for all things outdoor adventure is southwest of the capital, in the towns of Kranjska Gora, Bovec and Kobarid. The first was where we begun our hut to hut hike into the Alps, but you can also find some beautiful day hikes. Bovec, where our trek ended, is where you can book other activities like mountain biking, rafting and sky diving.

So many of the pictures you see throughout this post were taken from our SloTrips 3-day adventure. It was an incredible way to see the country as it morphed from densely wooded forests, to craggy peaks, to mossy Fern Gully banks that lined the socca river. A day hike along the river is a must, though the water looks more inviting than it is. We could only stand putting our feet in for 30 seconds before they went numb!

Going from hut to hut also allowed us to taste some humble mountain foods like sausage and sauerkraut stew. As someone with an information-based business myself, I don’t want to give away our hiking itinerary. So make sure to get in touch with SloTrips if you’re interested in designing your own adventure.

We ended our hike in the Socca valley, which is insanely green and dotted with beautiful medieval churches. In Kobarid, we stayed at an AirBNB apiary for the night among the bees, which was a cool experience, before heading to Hisa Franko for our culinary reward.

They offer a small number of moderately-priced rooms above the restaurant, and if you’re going to be eating dinner there, I highly recommend you try to book for the whole night, as the wine pairing was generous and not to be missed!

So, as for the main event…

The meal at Hisa Franko blew me away. As you know, I’m not one for Michelin star, molecularly overly wrought meals. On the surface, this is what you get during your 11 course tasting menu. But Ana Ros’ cuisine is infused with so much more soul than the sum of her foams combined.

Our favorite dishes were among the most simple: her trout in a milky broth with briny beets to cut the fat, and the only substantial meat course, a beautiful venison medallion with anchovy butter and spruce dust that tasted like the forest.

The iconic pasta dish is sadly not gluten-free. Instead, they served me a delicate sardine. But I stole a little taste of Charlie’s ham and hazelnut broth. It was insane. I would recommend all GF folks request a cup of the broth without the pasta. I asked them if I could have it instead of one of the desserts and they laughed politely and said no.

My favorite part of the experience was Ana and Valter’s hospitality. They aren’t present in the dining room or kitchen during service, but since the restaurant is an extension of their home, you can see them having family dinner with their kids and wandering around during the day. They are incredibly friendly and make you feel at home.

GORISKA BRDA WINE REGION

These hills, a stone’s throw from Italy’s Fiuli region, are considered the Slovenian Napa. It’s a small area with lots of producers clustered around, and many have restaurants on the premises that offer tastings along with a tasty meal. There’s a large influence from Italy and much of the meats and cheeses (as well as the tourists) come from across the border.

Since most of these wineries of small family-run operations, you can’t just show up. Email them in advance to set up a tasting session or lunch reservation.

The wineries recommended to us were Klinec Medana for orange wines, Movia for natural whites, Edi Simcic for great reds, and Erzetic to learn from a younger next generation producer. We had a lovely lunch at Klinec Medada with overlooking the grapes with beautiful produce from their neighboring farm. I wasn’t as wild about the orange wines, but they were interesting to try.

The wine pairing at Hisa Franko introduced us to a lot of lesser known producers, and throughout the rest of the trip we tried many of the above wineries off the restaurant lists, so by the time we made it to wine country, we didn’t feel the need to do more than 1 appointment.

In general, the wine in Slovenia is mostly natural, organic and biodynamic. We got to try some interesting grapes I wasn’t familiar with like Malvasia, and generally loved everything we tried. If you find a Slovenian wine on a your menu, order it!

PIRAN

Last but not least, we made our way to the Istrian Peninsula, which is home to Italy, Croatia and Slovenia. In fact, if you lived in Piran for most of your life, there’s a chance that you’ve had citizenship to 4 different countries as the borders changed.

What to Do in Piran

This sleepy seaside village is the perfect place to unwind after a rigorous few days of adventuring. The Adriatic sea is incredibly buoyant, pristine, and perfect for habitual porpoising. You won’t find sandy shores, but the perimeter of town is lined with some pebbly patches to perch, and plenty of small concrete docks to dive off of if a dip is all you’re after.

The high salt content also makes it a hub for sea salt production. If reading by the rocky shore isn’t enough activity for you, try renting bikes and visiting the salt pans 5 kilometers outside town center towards Portorosso, the more commercial stretch of the marina. It’s an easy flat ride along the shore. Otherwise, your best bet for exercise is to hike up to the church at the center of town and take in the view.

Where to Stay in Piran

Hotel Piran

This is the main game in town, and though we found it a little shabby and overpriced for you what you get, you can’t beat the location and view. The rooftop restaurant is a great place for an evening spritz as the sunsets. And the breakfast buffet even had GF bread!

Note that cars aren’t allowed in the town center, but some hotels like Piran offer a shuttle service so you can drop off your bags and then return your car to the lot at the edge of town and get a ride back in. The hotel also offers bikes to rent that were very pleasant for exploring the outlying areas.

The Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Piran

Pri Mari

We loved this cozy gostilna so much that after a mediocre experience at Pavel (don’t recommend), we decided to go back a second time for dinner. The sea bass baked in sea salt with baked potatoes and spinach is the perfect simple meal. For those who can partake, Charlie raved about his vongole pasta. And I was majorly smitten with my saffron risotto with prawns. Make sure if you’re celiac to avoid the crispy potatoes that come with some of the single serving fish entrees as there’s cross contamination in the fryer. Don’t miss the pannacotta for dessert and ask for a special aperitif to go with it. Whatever bitter anise-y spirit they served was just what we wanted.

Rizibizi

A short walk or bike ride outside town towards Portorosso, this restaurant is one of the more formal in the area, with prices to match. Still, the prawn and truffle risotto was affordable by US and Italy standards. We also had a beautiful beef carpaccio with truffles. Basically, we ate an entire truffle between the two of us and had no regrets.

Pavel

Right in the center of town by the shore, this restaurant is slightly touristy with some mediocre dishes as a result. BUT it was one of the few places with gluten-free pasta in town and the clams did not disappoint. I’d recommend it just for a vongole with a view.

Source: https://feedmephoebe.com/best-slovenia-restaurants-hotels-itinerary/

#read more #see more #check it out #interesting #learn more

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architectnews · 4 years

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Domnato Bakery, Belém, Pará

Domnato Bakery, Belém, Pará Property, Contemporary Brazilian Commercial Restoration Architecture, Photos

Domnato Bakery, Belém, Pará

15 Sep 2020

Domnato Bakery

Design: LIVRE arquitetura

Location: Rua Senador Manoel Barata, 1619 Belém, Pará, Brasil

The Domnato Bakery project consists in the readjustment of an old house in a bakery, totaling 240 sqm of built area.

As a restoration strategy, it was decided to preserve the old façade and to mark the area of the new intervention in an orange box. So, the project consists of two volumes that are reproduced both inside and outside.

The strong color volume houses the production sites: confectionery, bakery, and kitchen. The old, blank area consists of the sector for bakery users.

This strong color is part of client’s visual ID and it is an example of how architecture must deal with branding and knowledges from other areas.

Also design objects were exclusively designed, with the aim of reinforcing the brand identity: the tiled mosaic benches allude to the location of the group’s stores through map graphics; the exhibition furniture and the hanging garden. The confectionery, at the entrance of the building, gives greater visibility for its production of fine sweets and aim to increase selling.

At bakery, a three-deck baking oven was imported from Portugal to guarantee constant production and to ensure customers can always find freshly baked bread throughout the day. The flux of clients and employees was studied meticulously to increase both buying appeal and to provide efficiency in productions areas.

The interior lighting design used high end spotlights to emulate solar illumination. Only high CRI (Color Rendering Index) led lamps were used to ensure the product’s appeals and the visual comfort for users. Solar Control films were used on windows to decrease the air-conditioning-demand, enhancing the thermal comfort, and decreasing the energy consumption.

The bathrooms use a single ceramic tile coating on the ceiling, walls, and floor, set in pagination with whole pieces.

The landscaping was implemented prioritizing the use of Brazilian plants that, in our reading, refer to the natural Amazonian environment, due to their size and leaf structure. A kitchen garden was also built for the consumption of the establishment. All paints were custom made to this project by a local chemical industry to ensure both high resistance and color accuracy to client’s branding. The special orange polyurethane paint was developed to maintain a matte finish which is essential to this project mood, grabbing a contemporary touch and reenforcing the singularity of that building.

In the interior space it was used a restricted color palette focused in a small number of colors and finishes, so as not to call attention to the building. The furniture follows simple lines and an architecture without ornaments, seeking to respect the preponderance of the products and the selling purposes. The architecture must be a support to the main vocation of the project. Livre Arquitetura is a Architecture and Design Studio based in the heart of Amazon which designs are often a mix of traditional and innovative aspects.

Blending of modern technologies and ancestral aesthetics and cultural roots they create a unique approach of contemporary architecture. Livre is inspired by simple everyday moments, art, nature, and by the unique richness of Amazon’s biodiversity.

Domnato Bakery in Belém – Building Information

Architects: LIVRE arquitetura

Studio Location: Belém – Pará – Brasil

Conclusion: 2020 Built Area: 240 sqm Project Location: Rua Senador Manoel Barata, 1619 Belém – Pará – Brasil

Architects leaders: Ari Tomaz, Luis André Guedes, Pablo do Vale Support Archtect: Renata Godinho Clients / clientes: DomNato Padaria Hydraulic Engineering: Enplac Fire Project: Empreitec Engenharia Project Coordination: LIVRE arquitetura Landscape Design: Carpe Diem in Garden

Suppliers: Rezendes Iluminação, Alubox, G. Art Silk, Ramalhos(https://ramalhos.com/), I.nox, Franco Bachot(https://ift.tt/2RwwzGQ), Grunox (https://ift.tt/3kiKhJV), Criativa, Veloz tintas (https://ift.tt/33xfq5A), Stella (https://ift.tt/3c70yif), Brilia (https://brilia.com/), deca (https://ift.tt/35BngxF), Gabriel Miranda Automação e Vídeo, Libra Branding (https://ift.tt/3c2FSYw), Glasart (https://ift.tt/35ALng4), Hobart (https://ift.tt/3hFM2PT)

Contractor: Empreitec Engenharia

Photographer: Manuel Sá

Domnato Bakery, Belém, Pará images / information received 150920

Location: Rua Senador Manoel Barata, 1619 Belém, Pará, state of Paraná, Brazil

Architecture in Paraná

Contemporary Architecture in Paraná

Flame Casual Bar, Curitiba, Paraná, Brasil Design: Giuliano Marchiorato Arquitetos photograph : Eduardo Macarios Flame Casual Bar in Curitiba

VMZ House in Londrina Design: ZIZ architects Contemporary Paraná Property

Architecture in Brazil

Contemporary Architecture in Brasil

Brazilian Architecture Design – chronological list

Brazilian Architecture News

Tatersal Amador Aguiar, Lins, São Paulo State Design: Bruno Rossi Arquitetos photograph : André Scarpa Tatersal Amador Aguiar in Lins

Guaeca House, São Sebastião Design: AMZ Arquitetos photograph : Maíra Acayaba Guaeca House in São Sebastião

Brazilian Architecture

Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói – MAC, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro Design: Oscar Niemeyer Architect Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói

Teatro Popular de Niteroi, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro Oscar Niemeyer Architect Teatro Popular de Niteroi

Image and Audio Museum, Rio de Janeiro Design: Diller Scofidio + Renfro Museu da Imagen e de Som

Museum of Tomorrow, Rio de Janeiro Design: Santiago Calatrava Museum of Tomorrow

Top Towers – Housing Design: Königsberger Vannucchi Arquitetos Assoc. Top Towers Sao Paulo

Brazilian Architect

Comments / photos for the Domnato Bakery, Belém, Pará – Brazilian Architecture page welcome

Website: Brazil

The post Domnato Bakery, Belém, Pará appeared first on e-architect.

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survivingart · 5 years

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POLISHING YOUR STORY (THE ARTIST STATEMENT)

Artist statements, even though they might appear like a load of pretentious art-talk (which many of them sadly are), serve a very important purpose: presenting your passion in a bite-sized package, to be easily consumed and understood by the reader or listener (you can, and should know how to pitch them too).

But what many of us present as an artist statement is usually exactly the opposite of what it should be; we focus on intellectually sounding words and sentences like this: “As wavering phenomena become rediscovered through subversive personal practices, the observer is left with an awareness of the boundaries of our era.”, rather than actually trying to communicate clearly.

And taking the time to create a great artist statement will also help you clarify your wording, so you can give a short and captivating presentation anytime you find yourself in front of an interested buyer, are giving an interview or just get asked by a random person at a party somewhere about what you do.

The worst thing to do when casually asked about what kind of art you make, is to go rambling on about your work for half an hour and spewing random artist’s names and isms with no head or tail. Again, the goal is to start with small bite-sized pieces of information that are easy to consume and intrigue the listener to want to know more, not your subconsciousness going full monty.

A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:

Be genuine and sincere.

This is the most important one of all. Never feel like you need to defend your right to make art; regardless if you only paint pretty flowers because you like pretty flowers or if you are composing some conceptual piece that will explain the meaning of life itself, what you do is your choice so tell it how it really is. There is absolutely no need for big words and fake concepts.

Short and sweet; 3 – 5 sentences is ideal.

It can be longer if you really want to, though I couldn’t recommend it. The important thing to keep in mind is not to write half a page.

Clear and simple language.

Regardless of who your target audience is and what you do, make your artist statement understandable to even the people that don’t know anything about art. Especially if your work focuses on being beautiful, rather than conceptual. Truth be told, nobody likes to feel dumber than the person they are speaking to and if your goal is to get them even close to as excited about what you do as you are yourself, it might be better to talk to them like you would to a curious friend rather than a judging professor.

Base your language on evoking emotions, not just intellectual concepts.

Easy for anyone focusing on beauty or any other emotion-evoking art, but even conceptual artists can present their ideas by building on emotions. Think about it; your artist statement should intrigue the reader to become curious about your work and give them some sort of key to be able to understand it better. And curiosity is an emotion, not a mental state — nobody thinks they’re curious, they feel curious.

No comparisons to other artists, living or dead.

The fact that you’re trying to make your work more understandable by comparing it to someone else — usually a more popular and successful artist — is a bad move. Not only are you passively implying unoriginality, but unless you’re comparing your work to Picasso (and you shouldn’t), there’s a big probability that people just won’t know the artists you’re mentioning.

Note that comparing your work to other artists is a wonderful and necessary tool when figuring out your style and creative toolkit, but as such, comparisons should be done in the studio and while doing research, not as part of a presentation or sales pitch.

Nobody cares about technicalities or tools.

If you’re a landscape painter, talk about why you’re drawn to nature, not about the fact that you use oils instead of acrylics because they blend better. But you can always use materials to strengthen your narrative: oils are an old, slow drying medium and can allow for a much more mediative and relaxed workflow, thus complementing nature’s unhurried pace, compared to our fast-paced lives. But only if this is really why you chose to start painting landscapes in oil, don’t make things up because they sound nice.

Maybe the only time it actually is appropriate to talk about the tools is when you are using a rare, obscure or otherwise exciting process or material. It could be cutting edge stuff like Virtual Reality or blockchain tech or wet plate collodion photography (an almost alchemistic process that is quite hard to do and regarded highly by hipsters around the world).

Review your statement as you progress in your work.

Be it quarterly or yearly or some other period of time, the point is not to write your artist statement once and then leave it be for 20 years. It’s also a nice reality check to sit down and think about what your work is about and if anything has changed since the last time you wrote it.

And for all the times you really want to go hot-air-ballooning with words, you can visit my Artist Statement Generator and experience the magic of semi-randomness in action.

HINT: A good way to tell if your artist statement is OK or not; if it looks like the one you can generate in the link above, it probably shouldn’t be on your CV or portfolio.

GETTING YOUR STORY STRAIGHT (YOUR PERSONAL BRAND)

Since the beginning of human creation, art has been evolving in a more or less linear fashion. This is especially obvious in the era of isms; starting with the old impressionists, evolved by Henri Matisse and the other fauvists, and the expanded freedom of colour and form that eventually lead to cubism, futurism and abstraction.

Due to a great lack of functional means of communication, artists all over the world took much longer to evolve their styles and to find new inspirations for their work. Picasso had no other means to come in contact with a totally foreign culture than by visiting a museum exhibit. And it took him a long time to get his imagination juices flowing enough to be able to produce his masterpiece The Young Ladies of Avignon, that eventually lead to a revolution in art.

But now, with the power of the internet our playing field has been broadened from a straight line into a worldwide area of everything goes.

If one wishes to decorate his or her home with some fine art — from bio art to classical realism — today one can find almost anything online. And with such an abundance of art, it does bring up the question of how to stand out from the crowd?

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

IF YOU WANT TO GET EXHIBITED:

The art market is a volatile place for investors, and these are the people gallerists cater to, so there are certain check boxes your work has to tick in order for them to decide to sign and represent you and your work.

Having a regular production is the best sign for a curator to know that you’re serious about your work.

If you only create one work a quarter, your chances of being perceived as a viable candidate are much smaller than if you have a regular output of work. It doesn’t have to be one work a day — unless that’s your thing of course — but having a history of regularity is one of the most important traits an artist can have for a collector or gallerist.

Curators tend to look at the whole oeuvre — the whole body of work any particular artist has produced over the years.

Today, it isn’t as much about one work, or even one exhibition — what matters in the long run is the totality of our production. Rather than focusing on the importance of each piece we make, it’s much better to take a step back and observe it in the context of everything we have ever done.

Questions you could ask yourself that could help you create a coherent body of work:

Does it brings anything to the story of who you are and what you’re are about? Does it complement or juxtapose the works that came before it? Does it maybe break a certain “tradition” of motifs you had previously been using in your work? Are you becoming more serious, more cynical or more playful in the way you tell your stories? …

A brand is only as strong as its presence in the lives of its customers.

Regardless how much competition we face as creatives, how many applications, CVs and portfolios the galleries we all are trying to get in receive in a day (usually a lot), the decision of who gets signed and who is left on the applications pile of the gallerist’s desk is mostly decided by a simple question: “Do they know us?”

If we want to get into a gallery, it is imperative to be present at their exhibition openings and talks, to mingle with the people in charge and slowly become part of their circle. This is probably incredibly obvious, but a lot of us are guilty of not showing up in person, when this is actually what matters the most.

Build relationships with people, regardless if they’re the owner, head curator or just answer the phone.

When just starting out, our chances of just popping up at an opening of a gallery that we have been eyeing for a while and getting friendly with the curator or owner aren’t really great. There’s a social divide between freshly baked art students and prominent art world figures, and to say it takes courage to just get up to one and start talking is an understatement.

But we can start out by getting to know the people working there; maybe we know somebody who is now working the reception or handling their social media. They of course won’t be able to arrange a meeting, but could share some valuable information about what is going on inside the gallery.

There’s really no better insider than an intern on coffee duty — they might not be in charge, but they do hear and see a lot about what is going on inside the institution. Also, having friends in the field is always a wonderful thing to have, so build sincere relationships, not just means to an end.

KEEP IN MIND: Public institutions, unlike private galleries, do not have to be profitable to stay afloat, so if you are living in an area where the art market isn’t as strong as in New York or London and most of the galleries are publicly funded, getting exhibited there requires a different tactical approach.

If for example you create more conceptual pieces, that aren’t as focused on being aesthetically pleasing but rather propagate a message — like political and other critical art — public institutions tend to be a better target as they won’t judge your work by the merit of how well it could sell, but rather on the power and importance of your message.

Be it public or private, before applying to any institution for an exhibition, the best thing is to first asses what their goal is; is it making more profit than last year, is it fighting some social injustice or just showing beautiful work. If you can find their basic intention, you will have a much easier time aligning your story and your work with theirs and finding the common ground from which to build your arguments and getting their attention.

IF YOU WANT TO SELL YOUR WORK:

Similar to getting a show in a gallery, getting a sale requires us to be regular producers. But unlike gallerists, that care a lot about our work’s future worth, followers and collectors usually don’t buy our art because of investment reasons, but because they like it. So regularity here is merely a means to show up and build public presence. The more we create, the more we are able to be present on social media for example, and our chances to be seen by potential buyers greatly increase.

The same goes for having a coherent body of work. Here the emphasis isn’t on showing a maturely developed personal style that is important for being taken seriously by gallerists of any medium or large institution, but the mere fact that only by being consistent and coherent in our work are we able to create a personal brand for our customers.

You don’t buy the new Stephen King novel because you are expecting a romantic comedy and you don’t read J. K. Rowling because of her knowledge of biochemistry. Each creator has their own body of work, distinct from everybody else and thus people learn to expect a certain kind of art from any one of them. This is really important, because it’s the cornerstone of any great personal brand.

And there are other things to keep in mind:

Personal brands are almost as important as the products we produce.

It’s important to hone your skills, but working too hard on figuring out your style and technical skill without giving your audience the chance to also get to know you might not be the best tactic.

Each of us has a unique story to tell, a unique background of why we do what we do. Why not focus on that, rather than being just another still life painter or just another one using resin to make his or her work. In today’s oversaturated world it shouldn’t be the materials or the singular creations we make that define us and our personal creative brand, but the amalgamation of everything we stand for, everything we are.

The main point of any product, even an art piece, is to fulfil a need and satisfy a certain want that people might have.

Either to make their lives easier, richer or to give them the ability to express themselves even if their own skills don’t allow them to, art should satisfy a certain want.

This doesn’t mean that you should stop doing what you like and focus exclusively on impressionist portraits, just because they’re in vogue right now, but that you need to focus your attention on the people that would like what you do.

HINT: Facebook Ads is wonderful, because it lets you target a specific audience — even to the level of “somebody that works at a particular company” — so you can really focus on only the people that you believe share your love towards a specific style of art.

Regardless of whether you wish to get signed by a gallery or attack the market directly via online stores and social media, don’t think too much about how your work looks compared to all the other similar creators, focus instead on your message and personal story.

The issue of uniqueness could once be resolved merely through personal style; Renoir was different from Matisse, Gauguin nothing like Cézanne … The number of artists an average collector or gallery visitor knew, was more in the hundreds and differentiation amongst them wasn’t as hard back then as it is today.

Now you can open Saatchi Online and find millions of artists, many of them producing quite similar works, so style doesn’t really help as much as it once did. The only real differentiator between two similarly looking artworks is the story behind them and the artist who created them.

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#artist life #contemporary art #surviving art #make art everyday #blog

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meganlclickfl · 5 years

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Santa Monica Holiday Specials & Events

There’s so much to experience in Santa Monica during the holiday season – from ice skating just blocks from the beach to enjoying some of the best holiday feasts. Moreover, no need for snow gear here! Just grab a scarf and explore the Santa Monica holiday events, Christmas & Hanukkah menus, hotel deals and seasonal specials all being offered throughout the city. SANTA MONICA HOLIDAY EVENTS For New Year’s Eve events, visit our “Celebrating the New Year in Santa Monica” page. ICE at Santa Monica November 3, 2018 – January 21, 2019 Every holiday season, Downtown Santa Monica brings a little ice skating to the beachside community and transforms the corner of 5th Street and Arizona Avenue into ICE at Santa Monica, a premier outdoor ice skating rink. The 8,000 square foot rink by the beach offers residents and visitors a little taste of winter without the bite. A great location to celebrate the holidays, ICE at Santa Monica is the perfect place to hang out with friends and family, throw a party in a private event cabana, enjoy a first date or sign up for skate lessons. Join the fun and visit Downtown Santa Monica this season to experience ICE. Wonderland by the Water November 19, 2018 – January 6, 2019 For the first time in over a decade, the Pier is getting in the holiday spirit! View the “Seadragons Village” in the windows of the pier’s historic merry-Go-Round building. With the help of some of LA’s best event producers to, the pier will host holiday events all season long, including Story Time in Wonderland, Photo Ops with Holiday Mermaids, giveaways and more. This series of events is perfect for locals and tourists alike! See all of the Wonderland by the Water events here! The Nutcracker by Westside Ballet November 24 – December 2 Westside Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a Los Angeles tradition dating all the way back to 1973 – the longest running Nutcracker production in Los Angeles. As featured in the Los Angeles Times, the artistic direction captures the spirit of the legendary George Balanchine, passed on by Yvonne Mounsey, who created the Nutcracker role of Center Spanish during the peak of her career as principal dancer with New York City Ballet. City of Santa Monica Official Tree Lighting Party November 30 Join Santa, Mrs. Claus and City officials as they light the Official City of Santa Monica Holiday Tree on the world-famous Third Street Promenade. Sing classic Christmas carols with some of Santa Monica’s most talented vocalists while the little ones indulge in a kids’ craft station where they can create their own letters to Santa. The Jolly One will be on hand for photos to help you design that all-important holiday card. Main Street Holiday Party December 1 Join Main Street Santa Monica in a festive night! Stroll Main Street and hop from shop to shop for goodies and good times. There will be music, photo ops with Santa, a tree lighting and a candle light walk, all part of the family festive fun on Main Street in Santa Monica. This annual tradition that starts with a tree lighting at the Heritage Lawn followed by a walk led by Santa, to the famous Shopping Cart tree at Edgemar. You’re invited to a festive night of carolers and holiday parties hosted by your favorite Main Street businesses! Menorah Lightings on Third Street Promenade December 2 – 9 Join local synagogues and community groups as their members celebrate the Festival of Lights this Hanukkah season. Lighting the menorah will begin shortly after sundown each evening. Shalom! Montana Avenue Holiday Walk December 8 Find wonderful gifts, have your photos taken with Santa, listen to live music, indulge in great food and drinks. This is a fun night for all! Pico Holiday Celebration December 8 Celebrate the holiday season at the Pico Boulevard farmers Market! There will be live music performances by McCabe’s Guitar Shop, Morgan-Wixson Theater, and Sound Roads Music. Santa Monica Pub Crawl December 8 – 9 Santa Monica’s most festive day of the year returns for the 10th Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl, on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018 at 5 p.m. This holiday fundraising crawl offers four routes to choose from with more than 30 bars and restaurants across the city offering food and drink specials to those with the official pub crawl wristband. Over the past 9 years, this popular event has raised enough money to provide a half million pounds of food for those in need through a partnership with the Westside Food Bank. Join thousands of crawlers as they fill the streets dressed as jolly Santas and naughty elves, and help raise money for the less fortunate! The Fairmont’s Meet me Under the FIG Tree December 9 Meet Me Under the FIG Tree is an afternoon for the entire family and a reason to gather together for the holiday season! The day’s festivities include: live entertainment, pictures with Santa Claus, whimsical gingerbread houses, seasonal crafts, a bounce house and snow! Please bring nonperishable food items to contribute to the largest canned food drive on the Westside. Santa Monica – Venice Christmas Run December 15 The Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run is Los Angeles’ largest holiday running event and a great fundraiser. In fact, the race is one of the most popular running events in Los Angeles, regardless the time of year. The event was started in 1977 with 10,000 runners participating in the race. For over 3 decades, it has not only remained a highly popular local run but the event has become an integral part of the Los Angeles community during the holiday season. For many, the Christmas Run is the true start of the holidays. The Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run has a 5k and a 10k run that winds through the beautiful streets of Santa Monica and Venice, California, including a long stretch along the famous Venice Beach boardwalk. UNIQUE Market’s Holiday Pop-up December 15 – 16 This holiday season, shop local on the pier! In celebration of its 10th birthday this year, UNIQUE LA is bringing you a holiday shopping experience SoCal style! Come shop from more than 150 curated, independent designers and emerging brands to get all your last-minute holiday shopping done. Grab the crew, bring the whole family and find one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy beautiful ocean views, relaxing shaded lounges, free drinks and more! Back to Top

SANTA MONICA CHRISTMAS & HANUKKAH MENUS Check back for dining options. Back to Top

SANTA MONICA HOTEL DEALS Cal Mar Hotel Suites 10% off when booking directly at 310-395-5555. Ask for the Fall/Winter Special. Valid September 24-December 27, 2018. Back to Top SANTA MONICA SEASONAL SPECIALS Daily Grill Mondays 3pm – Close Monday Night Football Specials Enjoy $5 well drinks and $10 You Call It cocktails El Conquistador Burger & Beer $15 Smothered Tots $8 Valid September 17, 2018 through January 27, 2019. HaleARTS Take 10% off entire purchase at this local art & gift gallery in Santa Monica Place. Featuring one-of-a-kind, unique Santa Monica, Los Angeles & California souvenirs, mementos and original works of art from local artists. Valid October 1 through December 31, 2018. Le Méridien Delfina Le Méridien Delfina is hosting Happy Hour with football at the bar every Sunday, Monday and Thursday! Happy hour is 4pm to 6pm everyday (including weekends), featuring small bites, seasonal beers on tap, wine and craft cocktails. Valid year-round. Lemonade Santa Monica Lemonade has launched special picnic boxes! Each box costs $13 and comes with a choice of sandwich, seasoned kettle chips and a freshly baked cookie. Order today by contacting [email protected] or calling (310) 463-9998. Valid year-round. Melisse Restaurant Mélisse will begin offering a pre-theatre menu. The three course menu will change frequently based on the produce offered at the farmers market each week, and supplemental items like our Egg Caviar will also be available. Seatings will be Tuesday-Friday’s from 5:30-6:30pm. Valid March 6-December 31, 2018. Paws & Whiskers Pet Spa Get a photo with your pet, or take a photo with one of our rescue cats! Proceeds benefit the Meow Salvage Kitten Rescue. Get a high-quality digital photo with your pet, just your pet, or with one of our rescue kittens (we have several black ones just for Halloween!). Package costs $40 and you get all the photos from the shoot. 100% goes to the non-profit kitten rescue. Valid September 21 through December 31, 2018. Puzzle Zoo Weta Statues are now $9.99 each while supplies last. Marked down from $49.95. Valid February 23-December 31, 2018. Salon Tru 50% off your first facial! Offer valid for first-time skincare clients. Free travel size Oi Milk or Love Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner with Davines purchase of $60 or more. Offer valid while supplies last. Valid September 19, 2018 through January 1, 2019. Santa Monica Tickets Receive 5% off all in-store purchases of $100 or more. New customers only. Valid September 19, 2018-January 1, 2019. Thai Dishes Thai Dishes on Broadway is offering $5 cocktails during happy hour from 4pm-9pm. Valid February 22-December 24, 2018. The Hydration Room Santa Monica Free B12 Shot for new patients. Valid September 1 through December 31, 2018. Back to Top Are you a Santa Monica business with a holiday special or event? Submit here The post Santa Monica Holiday Specials & Events appeared first on Santa Monica.

source https://www.santamonica.com/holiday-specials/ from Santa Monica Day https://santamonicaday.blogspot.com/2018/11/santa-monica-holiday-specials-events.html

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santamonicaday · 5 years

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Santa Monica Holiday Specials & Events

SANTA MONICA CHRISTMAS & HANUKKAH MENUS Check back for dining options. Back to Top

from The Insider's Guide to the Beautiful City of Santa Monica https://www.santamonica.com/holiday-specials/

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giacintodenmark · 6 years

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Long Study Tour: Hamburg & Berlin

SUNDAY

6:45 Meet tour leaders and the group at Copenhagen Central Station

Up at 4:40, I gathered my things and myself to make my way to the station. I forgot to lock my bike (thank god for host moms, my bike likely would have disappeared otherwise). It all went well otherwise, I boarded the bus with my class in a daze.

7:10 Depart by bus for Rødby (Bus 38)

We then made a switch from bus to train. The train boarded the ferry.

9:35 Depart by ferry to Germany Depart on train (EC 38) to Hamburg

The train boards the ferry, we walk amongst the ferry (which is really a mall on the inside, may as well sell things to people when you’ve got them captive for the 40 minute crossing to Germany). It’s a pleasant ride, we talk on one of the two outside docks... watching the other boats pass, the whitewater trail we leave, the wind, the sun.

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A view from the train. A town view of the Lensahn municipality within Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.

12.31 Arrive at Hamburg Hauptbahnhof Walk from station to hostel

Hamburg’s central station. Bustling with people of all sorts, all in a bit of a hurry to be somewhere. It’s quite something to shuffle through shifting rivers of people with all the luggage we carried with us. It was an exciting introduction to Northern Germany.

Walking to the hotel, we were in a rather industrial area of Hamburg. I have been spoiled by Copenhagen in that the city infrastructure works wonderfully for pedestrians... for people. I can’t say the same for this part of Hamburg, with many cars and garbage. Its easy to see the benefits of the simple things Copenhagen implements in their city layout.

~13.00 Arrive/drop bags: Novum Belmondo Hamburg

Time on own:

St. Nicholas Church Ruins in Hamburg

The Bombings of Hamburg destroyed most of the city and killed many in WW2. The most destructive operations being Operation Gomorrah (named after the biblical destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah), killing 42K and wounding 37K.

The Gothic-style spired tower stands out like a beacon, it is the second tallest structure in Hamburg.

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Spire side view of the ruins, the spire-tower, once hollow, the damage to the details noticeable... now contains an elevator and information on the church remnants.

“Founded in 1195, St. Nicholas is one of the oldest churches in Hamburg. It develops from a little chapel to a hall church. During the Great Fire in Hamburg in 1842 it burns down.” (although it was destroyed and rebuilt times before this point).

“The citizens of Hamburg, however, facilitate to rebuild the church in a neo-gothic style. The plans are designed by British architect G. Scott, the construction lasts from 1846 to 1882.”

“In July 1943 Allied airplanes attack the city of Hamburg. During the air raids more than 35,000 people die, 900,000 become homeless, 250,000 houses are destroyed, as was St. Nicholas.”

“After the war, St. Nicholas is not rebuilt. The remains commemorate the victims of the “Fire Storm” over Hamburg and the victims of the German atrocities in Europe.”

Photo Link

Lunch on own:

Züm Spatzle

The front page is a letter to guests expressing how the importance of knowing where one's food comes from. The restaurant has close ties to the source of each ingredient used, everything is listed in the letter. The ingredients of every menu item are listed. The menu is small to keep everything home-made and high quality.

“Our meals are very traditional, home-style cooking. I hope you enjoy this cuisine from my homeland! We always fo our best!”

Spätzle with green pesto and parmesan. Topped with arugula, cherry tomato, and balsamic vinegar.

Maultachen in vegetable broth. (This was my favorite

Cheese Spätzle baked in the oven, with onions (caramelized + chives).

16:00 – 18:00 Group Visit: HafenCity – Sustainability Tour

Mr. Thorsten Gödtel is going to be our guide and the focus of the tour will be on sustainability concepts of HafenCity

70% of the German population lives in cities, this proportion is expected to increase in the future. HafenCity is the largest inner-city development project in Europe. There is an emphasis on making the infrastructure compatible with renewable energy, minimizing resource use and detrimental environmental impact, maximizing green space per urban/industrial area.

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Depart to return to hostel to check in 19:00

Meet in lobby to depart for group dinner

19.30 Group Dinner: Loving Hut Vegan Restaurant

An international all-vegan chain in which each location can offer its own menu items, but must remain completely vegan. We had a sesame/ginger soup and a whole bunch of spring rolls. It was quite good, I haven’t been to a bad Loving Hut... there are a great number of other vegan restaurants unique to Hamburg worth checking out as well.

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Rest of evening on own.

(went home, went to bed)

MONDAY

Morning Run #1

Went out early in the morning for a run, it was interesting to. see the city as the sun rose. The streets were bustling with morning traffic, the still active harbor was alight with ships coming in and out.

7.30 Breakfast at hostel.

8:40 Depart for a group visit

9:00-10:00 Group Visit: Farmers Cut

We visited a pilot vertical farm, working to bring locally grown greens to the people of Hamburg through dryponic cultivation. The process requires no pesticides and assures fresh, hyperlocal produce to markets and restaurants within the city.

Isabel Mlitor, a co-founder and current CMO of Farmers Cut. She gave us the tour through the Hamburg facility.

“[Indoor vertical farming] captivated me immediately as I was already following the development of next-generation farming in the USA – especially in New York – and knew what an incredibly fascinating topic it is: the link between technology, urbanization, and nutrition. All areas that carry great meaning for all of us.”

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A view of the plants growing within the vertical farm .

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A souvenir, some Lemon Balm fresh from the vertical farm.

Depart for Walking Tour 10:45- 12:45

Alternative Hamburg Tour Starting point: Sternschanze Bahn station

A tour through the Schanze neighborhood... focusing on the role graffiti art and tagging plays in creating the unique environment and giving voice to locals.

Here are some photos from the tour.

Time on own: Adventure around Sternshanze

A mysterious knick-knack store

I couldn’t find the name of the place anywhere, I don’t know if it was a shop, a museum, I don’t know... I never asked the guy sitting amongst the mess, he was busy reading and smoking .a cigarette (which are then placed into jars and placed throughout the room.

A Google Maps image of the entrance... the interior is below the Elternhaus.

This place was just an amalgamation of all sorts of unusual items... skulls wrapped in copper wire, meat grinders, people’s postcards, CPR dummies, dirt, et. cetera.

The place is a horribly messy art piece, everything seems to sort of have a place... sort of...

Hot Dog Thrift Store

A collection of curated vintage clothing, the owner seemed quite knowledgeable and passionate about the shop’s collection. The place is a fun visit, everything is quite expensive though...

Hermetic Coffee

“Living and breathing the diversity of coffee, we are very pleased that our café is giving us the opportunity to share with you the full range of coffee flavours.

We serve hand brewed speciality coffee from our own roasts as well as from appreciated roasteries from all over the world.

For you to explore the world of coffee at your home, too, we offer freshly roasted coffee and a wide range of brewing equipment such as scales, drippers, hand mills and much more.

Should you have any questions, feel free to approach us at all times – we are happy to help you.

We are looking forward to your visit.“

The café interior.

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Espresso, the go-to for every café I visit.

18.36 Depart on train for Berlin

20.19 Arrival at Berlin Hauptbahnhof Depart by public transport to hotel

Approx. 21:00 Arrival/check in: B&B Hotel

Rest of evening on own

TUESDAY

Morning Run #2

Got up early once again to get a first look at Berlin as the sun rises. Our hotel is near Tiergarten, a large green strip similar to NY’s Central Park or SF’s Golden Gate Park. It was once the royal hunting grounds, it was turned into a protected public space in the 1700s. Much of the park was clear cut during a coal shortage during WW2. It has gradually been replanted thanks to local donations.

The Victory Column, commemorating the victory in the Prussian-Danish war.

A sunrise along the road that runs through Tiergarten. Morning traffic had began, everyone was starting their Tueday in Berlin.

Soviet War Memorial, commorating soldiers killed in the Battle of Berlin.

The sunset reflected upon the glass buildings near the hotel we were staying at.

8:30 Meet to depart for group visit by public transportation

9.30- 13.00 Group Lunch + Academic Visit: Das Baumhaus

Project & Space for Sustainability in Berlin Gerichtstraße 23, 13347 Berlin A workshop on sustainability and community engagement And a hands-on workshop – building stuff with tetrapaks.

“A place to meet neighbors and other people who want to make the world a better place in Berlin! The project space is a platform for meetings, events and workshops for a variety of people and organizations. Das Baumhaus is an open socio-cultural project in Wedding. They connect, inspire and empower each other, neighbors, organizations and local changemakers working for transition to sustainability. In the project space, people and projects from a broad variety of backgrounds come together, meet and collaborate.

Das Baumhaus is a self-organized, grassroots initiative grown out of the neighborhood, with Karen & Scott, the project co-founders at the core of the Baumhaus project. Since 2012, more than 300 people have collaboratively developed the project, organized events, meetings, initiated new groups, and in 2016 renovated a storefront space into a pretty unique project space. Organized as a non-profit association, a social business and above all, an open network.”

We discussed the foundational thinking of Das Baumhaus... recognizing the world as a conglomeration of multiple systems within a collective balance. Sustainable development should be looked at from 6 perspectives: Personal, Ecological, Aesthetic, Cultural, Economic, Social. We then pretty much did arts and crafts to make upcycled things for an hour and a half.

Lunch is served by the Real Junk Food Project, they only use rescued food. (i.e. food that is still good to eat but would have been thrown out without someone using it ASAP)

Time on own

16:00 Meet at Orinienburger Tor U-bahn station

16:15 – 17:45 Cultural Visit: Private Viewing of Boros Collection Inside Bunker Reinhardtstraße 20 10117 Berlin

“The Boros Collection is a private collection of contemporary art. It comprises groups of works by international artists dating from 1990 to the present. Different facets of the collection are on public display in a converted bunker, with 3000 sqm exhibition space. “

1942... Construction of the bunker as an air-raid shelter for the civilian population, built by forced laborers.

1945... Bunker occupied by the Red Army and used for prisoners of war.

1949...Use as a textile warehouse.

1957... Converted into a warehouse for imported tropical fruit from Cuba, managed by a state-owned company “Fruit Vegetables Potatoes”. Known locally as the “banana bunker”.

1990...After German Reunification, the building becomes the property of the federal government.

1992...Techno music and fetish parties mean that the bunker gains a reputation as the hardest club in the world.

1996... Art exhibition Files featuring Olafur Eliasson, Daniel Pflumm, Ugo Rondinone, and others.

2001... Nippon Development Corporation GmbH acquires the bunker.

2003... Christian Boros purchases the bunker to convert it to house his collection.

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He Xiangyu, Untitled (2017)... Bronze cast egg cartons, gold plated.

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Rest of evening on own including dinner

Mogg

“Mogg is housed in an old red brick former Jewish girls school on Berlin’s August Strasse, designed by Alexander beers in 1927. The modernist stark exterior of the school come hospital is belied almost by the colorful art deco tiling in the communal areas. The building's appearance, combined with its long history makes this a cultural must-see in itself.

mogg was added to this eclectic mix in 2012 and quickly established itself as an institute on the Berlin culinary scene. the menu is speckled with home comfort staples such as matza ball soup and new york cheesecake (locally known as the best in town), which sits comfortably aside seasonal salads and of course, the home cured and smoked pastrami- for which the deli is famous.”

The shop interior.

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A very serious photo of myself with my Rueben sammo... Pastrami, swiss cheese, Russian dressing, pickled cabbage toasted on a half rye bread with a side of coleslaw and a pickle.

Café Am Neuen See

I had to walk off my Rueben, I met up with some friends at this beer garden within Tiergarten. It’s a pretty spot worthing stopping by for some beer/wine.

The view of the large venue from the dock

Photo Link

Cuore De Vetro

We then journeyed over to this gelato shop that also seems to serve up many other wonderful things (baked goods, charcuterie, drinks). They are open until 11 PM, making it a great place to stop while out with friends.

A view of the interior front. The space is really cool, with a nice seating area out front.

WEDNESDAY

8:15 Meet to depart for group visit on public transport

9:00- 10:30 Group Visit: The Little Sun Project

“The Little Sun Project is a Berlin-based socially and environmentally conscious initiative that was founded by artist Olafur Eliasson and engineer Frederik Ottesen. Together, Eliasson and Ottesen designed a solar lamp that is sold to entrepreneurs in off-grid communities to work towards creating local businesses while also providing a source of sustainable and reliable light. “

Inside the Little Sun office.

Depart on foot for visit 11:00- 12:00

Group Visit: Inken Behrmann, an activist from Ende Gelände Volkspark Friedrichshain We will have an informal talk about the work for ending the coal industry in Germany.

“Ende Gelaende is a broad alliance of people from the anti-nuclear and anti-coal movements, the Rhineland and Lausitz climate camps and the Hambacher Forest anti-coal campaign. They are from grassroots climate action groups, large environmental organizations, left political groups and many other campaigns, groups, and networks.

Ende Gelaende all share the belief that to stop climate change we need to take action ourselves, using civil disobedience as a powerful signal for real action to put our climate before profit.“

Time on own including lunch

Engelberg

“A visit at Engelberg is a great way to experience a proper German breakfast, which traditionally consists of sourdough bread and rolls served with of loads of charcuterie, cheeses, and spreads. The secret to Engelberg is simple: The crew sources the best goods from all over the country and serves it on a beautiful sidewalk patio.“

The sidewalk patio, it was a wonderful day and a wonderful visit. Everyones food was delicious, this place is most definitely worth the visit if nearby.

Farthest left (somewhat out of view): eggs with smoked ham, German rye, fresh tomato. Then we have gulasch with bread, spaetzle with ham, a boiled sausage with a pretzel and mustard, gulasch with spaetzle, salads. They also have a wonderful selection of drinks.

14:45 Meet at giant TV tower in Alexanderplatz for bike tour

15:00- 18:00 Group Activity: Fat Tire Bike Tour

Our guide brought us to a number of different historical landmarks throughout Berlin. It was a better time than I had expected, it was a nice day for a bike ride.

Humboldt University

One of the world’s most influential universities in the 19th and 20th century, linked to major breakthroughs in physics and other disciplines by its professors... such as Albert Einstein. It was the site of one of Nazi Germany’s largest book burnings, the Book Burning Memorial is now in the center of the pavilion.

Berlin Wall

Still standing portion, most of which was torn down in 1989.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

There are multiple interpretations to the memorial, as nothing explicitly suggests its purpose. There are 2,711 concrete slabs of different heights, laid upon the ground of different elevation. Walking further into the monument, one is surrounded by the granite slabs.

Brandenburg Gate

Altes Museum

Berlin Cathedral

18:15 Group Dinner Good Bank

“We are the first vertical-farm-to-table-restaurant in the world.

We grow our own vegetables and salads – right before your eyes and for your culinary pleasure. In doing this, we transform unused urban areas into productive farms from which produce can be harvested and used fresh.

We avoid using any kinds of pesticides or genetically modified seeds and protect the environment by removing the need for long cold chains, transportation and packaging waste.

It doesn’t get fresher than this – and it’s a difference you can taste. Our salad leaves also contain more nutrients than those farmed using conventional agricultural methods.

Our vision is to produce all our food self-sufficiently – starting with the three self-grown lettuce and vegetable varieties we currently offer. Others are set to follow.

We hope to play a role in the development and promotion of an increased awareness of sustainability.”

This visit was a lot of fun and the food and drink were simple and delicious. We were served a pumpkin soup, a combination of different salads and bowls, and desert... along with wine, beer, or non-alcoholic tonics and juices. We were given a jar of local honey as a souvenir.

Rest of evening on own

Klunkerkranich

“It doesn't get much more Berlin than Klunkerkranich, a makeshift bar on the top floor of an abandoned parking garage in the middle of Neukölln. Equipped with one of the best views over the city and stocked with plenty off cold drinks and savory snacks, this place is one of the ultimate late night bars in Berlin. Stick around for its famous after-hour parties.”

This place was really cool and is definitely worth the visit when in Berlin, take the elevator inside the mall up to the fifth floor... follow the signs to this unusual oasis amongst the city.

Photo

THURSDAY

8:15 Meet in the lobby to depart for the group visit

9.00 – 11.30 Group Visit Agora Energiewende

“In 2012, the European Climate Foundation and the Mercator Foundation founded Agora Energiewende to tackle the challenges posed by the energy transition. Its official mandate is to develop academically rigorous and politically feasible pathways for transforming energy systems toward clean energy in Germany and across the globe. Because its core funding comes from philanthropic organizations, Agora is fully autonomous, operating independently of business interests and political pressures. Within the framework of some international projects, Agora receives public funds in the form of grants.“

11:30 Lunch & time on own

Azzam Restaurant

“Famous for extraordinarily tasty fatteh and hummus, the Palestinian owners of Azzam have created a true melting pot for hungry diners of all stripes to experience the cultural and culinary diversity of Neukölln.”

One of the many places brought up through immigration to Berlin. The space is a meeting place for locals and visitors alike, the place was packed... and the kitchen was booming as fresh ingredients were thrown together and tossed out on large plates of deliciousness.

Gamäldegalerie

“The Gemäldegalerie boasts one of the world’s most important collections of European painting ranging from the 13th to 18th century. Masterpieces from all epochs in the history of art are on permanent display here, including paintings by Jan van Eyck, Pieter Bruegel, Albrecht Dürer, Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Peter Paul Rubens, Rembrandt, and Jan Vermeer van Delft. The gallery is especially proud of its strong collection of German and Italian painting from the 13th to 16th century and painting from the Low Countries dating from the 15th to 17th century.“

Hieronymus Bosch ... Triptych of the Temptation of St. Anthony (1501)

Peter Paul Rubens ... Christ Giving the Keys to St. Peter (1614)

Rembrandt ... Self-Portrait with Velvet Beret (1634)

One of Rembrandt’s etching, there was an entire exhibition on his own and his students etching. It is difficult to discern between his own and his student’s work.

Caravaggio ... Amor Vincit Omnia (Love Conquers All) (1602)

Titian ... Venus and Cupid (1549)

Raphael ... Madonna Colonna (1508)

Sandro Botticelli ... Portrait of a Young Woman (1480s)

18:30 Group Dinner

FRIDAY

9.15 Depart for the academic visit by public transport

10:00 – 11:30 Group Visit: UfaFabrik: International Center for Community and Ecology Viktoriastr.

“Internationally, the UfaFabrik enjoys considerable recognition as a leading demonstration in the areas of culture, community, and ecology. The UfaFabrik Berlin is a living example of the possibilities that exist for creating attractive, socially and ecologically just ways of living in a metropolis.

We will discuss sustainable energy at the center and how community involvement has been crucial to the development of UfaFabrik Berlin. A site which had been a wasteland for over half a century. Along with friends, fans, activists, and neighbors, the group cleared away rubbish, built transportable organic vegetable plots and reaped the first fruits of their labor.”

From the green roof of one of the buildings, much of which contains solar panels. The energy is sold to the local community when there is a surplus and bought back when there is a shortage.

Walking along the path of the community. The buildings originally made as a film factory now house all sorts of things... a dojo, music studios, schools, a fire-oven bakery, and more.

Depart for hotel by public transport

14.00 Pick up luggage at hotel and depart for main train station by public transport

15.06 Depart on train (EC 174) for Hamburg

17.11 Arrive in Hamburg and switch to train to Copenhagen

17.28 Depart Hamburg for Copenhagen (EC39)

The sunset seen through the train window.

22.26 Arrive in Copenhagen

I arrived to the energetic bustle of culture night in Copenhagen, its very unfortunate that we didn’t plan around culture night. It would have been worth it to come home early in order to be a part of this special night.

I was happy to be back in Copenhagen, I went home to make some oatmeal and went to bed.

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wp-yahoo-style-1042-yahoopa-blog · 6 years

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See the dreamiest stores that will make you fall in love with shopping again

At a time when direct-to-consumer, digital-first brands have disrupted the retail space, fashion companies both old and new still see value in traditional brick and mortar stores. These stores are beautiful, picture-perfect Instagram bait, and changing the way we look at retail.

Ahead, see the dreamiest stores that will make you actually want to shop IRL versus online.

Read More from Yahoo Lifestyle:

• Kim Kardashian sizzles in tight pink Barbie dress — how to wear the look yourself • 74-year-old Lauren Hutton and poet Cleo Wade star in Anthropologie’s new fashion campaign • Step aside LBD, Kylie Jenner is all about the little red dress

Kotn

Kotn was founded in 2015 by Mackenzie Yeates, Rami Helali, and Benjamin Sehl, centering on a line of elevated basics. They opened their first store in the U.S. on August 10. (Photo: Will Ellis/courtesy of Kotn) Location: 112 Mercer Street New York, NY 10012

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The store speaks to the label’s Egyptian roots, where the clothing is ethically made.(Photo: Will Ellis/courtesy of Kotn)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

“For the NYC store, I drew inspiration from our trips to Egypt. The antique doors to the change rooms are Egyptian and over a hundred years old, and my close friend Joe Baker (@joehenrybaker) designed the loft above the fitting rooms to resemble an Egyptian mashrabiya.” wrote co-founder @mackenzieyeates on Kotn’s Instagram page. (Photo: Will Ellis/courtesy of Kotn)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Mansur Gavriel

Manur Gavriel is best known for their line of leather bucket bags, but have since expanded into ready-to-wear and shoes. (Photo: courtesy of Mansur Gavriel) Location: 8475 Melrose Place, Los Angeles, CA 90069

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

You can shop their full line inside a sun-kissed space in the heart of Los Angeles. It is over 2,500 square foot large and includes an outdoor space with a flower shop, porch, and cafe. (Photo: courtesy of Mansur Gavriel)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Part of Mansur Gavriel’s retail concept includes an adjacent cafe, called Café Flora where you can sip on coffee and enjoy light bites under the California sun. (Photo: courtesy of Mansur Gavriel)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Anita Dongre

Anita Dongre is a renown Indian designer who has dressed powerful political and royal women from Kate Middleton to Hillary Clinton. She opened up her first U.S. store in the heart of NYC’s trendy SoHo neighborhood earlier this summer. (Photo: courtesy of Anita Dongre Location: 473 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The store is split up into three levels. The first level displays Dongre’s eco-friendly Grassroots line. (Photo: courtesy of Anita Dongre)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

On the third floor you will find a swinging bench surrounded by Anita Dongre’s bright and colorful bridal dresses. (Photo: courtesy of Anita Dongre)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The space speaks to Dongre’s Indian roots, while still feeling modern and fresh. (Photo: courtesy of Anita Dongre)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher just opened its first retail “Making Space” concept store in Brooklyn, New York. “We are a company built on a sense of community – from our employees to our supply chains. In this new store environment, we combine that essential quality of community with our work in design innovation to deliver a unique in-store experience. This is not a radical reinvention of Eileen Fisher, but simply the fullest expression of who we are: A space for experimentation and creation. For making and remaking. For finding inspiration. Because in creating his space, we’re making space for something new,” says founder Eileen Fisher in a press release. (Photo: Adrian Wilson, courtesy of Eileen Fisher) Location: 47 Bergen Street New York, NY 11201

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

At two levels, the store will act as both a retail and community space that will host workshops, screenings, and other community events. A section of the store is also dedicated to a rotating list of artisans who will display their work and for limited times, be present to engage with consumers. (Photo: Adrian Wilson, courtesy of Eileen Fisher)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The 4,929 square foot store also includes an outdoor space as well for friends and families to relax while shopping and engaging with others in the community. (Photo: Adrian Wilson, courtesy of Eileen Fisher)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Lively

Lively, known for its ultra-comfortable line of bras, panties and more opened up its first U.S. store after originally starting the company on Instagram. (Photo: Bridget Badore/courtesy of Lively) Location: 224 Mulberry Street New York, NY 10012

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Founded by Michelle Cordeiro Grant, Lively was designed to give women undergarments that will make them feel sexy, comfortable and confident. (Photo: Bridget Badore/courtesy of Lively)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The store is designed to be a space that is welcoming to shoppers and where they can gather to relax and hang out. (Photo: Bridget Badore/courtesy of Lively)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Hesperios

Hesperios, founded by Autumn Hruby is part store, gallery, and eatery. It is located in a restored 19th century brick building, modernly refreshed to embody Hruby. (Photo: courtesy of Hesperios) Location: 23 Cleveland Place New York, NY 10012

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

In the store, you will find a tightly curated selection of ready-to-wear clothing, books, ceramics and much more in this art-gallery style boutique. (Photo: courtesy of Hesperios)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

While shopping, you will be able to enjoy freshly baked goods by Meyers Bageri, bread, homemade butter, jam, honey, and a drink menu crafted by Selma Slabiak, who previously worked at Michelin star restaurant Aska. (Photo: courtesy of Hesperios)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Tai Jewelry

Tai Jewelry was founded by Tai Rittichai, offering women a line of quality, on-trend jewelry at affordable prices. (Photo: courtesy of Tai Jewelry Location: 262 Mott Street New York, NY 10012

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The store incorporates Tai’s own passion for architecture and design where she tightly curates every item. (Photo: courtesy of Tai Jewelry)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Lunya

Lunya is all about the bedroom, founded on creating soft, comfortable, elegant sleepwear. The store embodies its spirit, fittingly called “The NY Bedroom.) (Photo: courtesy of Lunya) Location: 255 Elizabeth Street New York, NY 10012

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The store is simple, calm, and relaxing— just how your bedroom should feel. (Photo: courtesy of Lunya)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

Furla

Earlier this summer, storied Italian label Furla opened up its newest store inside Miami’s luxurious Aventura Mall. (Photo: courtesy of Furla) Location: 19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33180

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

The elegant store speaks to the label’s European roots, featuring luxurious gold fixtures and shelves that highlight Furla’s diverse range of vibrant colored handbags. (Photo: courtesy of Furla)

Source: Yahoo Lifestyle

#_revsp:wp.yahoo.style.us #boutique #_uuid:f68b491e-a152-3ab0-a014-bb467918fd16 #dreamy stores #_draft:true #style #slideshow #store #dreamy #retail #_lmsid:a0Vd000000AE7lXEAT #fashion

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vacationsoup · 6 years

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/10-must-visit-chic-food-spots-in-phuket/

Cafe hopping in Phuket: 10 must-visit chic food spots

The island of Phuket is home to some of the world’s finest beach destinations, known for white sands, palm trees, dining and partying. It is undoubtedly one of Thailand’s must-see spots for tourists and backpackers alike – both of which are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding chic food spots in Phuket. Whether you’re after sweet treats or just a good old cup of coffee, these hidden gems are sure to do the trick.

PiKGO Cafe

PikGo Cafe. Image source: http://www.roytawan.com/forum/index.php?topic=25740.0

Located next to a rocky bridge, PiKGO Café is an adorable yet vibrant bakery and coffee house. With specialty drinks crafted by award-winning baristas, you are guaranteed to find attention to detail in every last latte.

What makes this café unique is the cute animal theme, which permeates not only in the stuffed animal pillows on the colorful couches but also the bakery goods. If you’re a sucker for teddy-bear cappuccino art or kitty shaped cakes then you will be spoilt for choice at PiKGO.

Best known for their home-baked goodies and wide selection of desserts (be sure to try the chocolate Oreo cake!), PiKGO is undoubtedly the cuddliest trendy food places in Phuket!

Essential information:

Contact number: 076 355 228

Address: Phuket Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pikgo-Cafe/205584729586710

Bookhemian Coffee Bar

Source: http://cafehopping.sg/travel/phuket-old-town-cafes

A quirky cafe which doubles up as a bookstore, the Bookhemian Bar boasts a collection of art magazines and local photography. If you’re looking for an intriguing yet edgy vibe, look no further!

As its name suggests, you can choose from a selection of new or used books to buy (or just browse through) whilst you decide whether you’d prefer the toasted marshmallow iced coffee to the orange cinnamon mocha.

As if that wasn’t enough, customers are invited to sneak upstairs for a hidden art gallery with a small collection of local crafts for sale, cementing the Bookhemian Coffee bar as one of the top unique restaurants in Phuket.

Essential information:

Contact number: 098 090 0657

Address: 61, Thalang Road, Tambon Talat Yai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Phuket, 83000, 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Bookhemian-Gastrobar-1406102239414046/?hc_ref=ARQLu13C4Tr3Ctclr1XZSXZGuFK4dbbC813Y1q5By6mSKRFjPtFXPxA0i4oB3HKDCpQ

Taitong Café

Taitong Café . Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/TaitongCafe/

One of the top chic food spots in Phuket, the Taitong café offers an authentic peek into the island’s history. Locally famed for its cappuccinos, all of the coffee at Taitong is organic and guaranteed to satisfy your caffeine urges.

Boasting a mini-bar constructed from an old Tuk-Tuk – a must for any Instagram account – this roadside café is an ideal place to relax and people watch through the traditional windows. Bright cushions and walls complement the simplistic interior design, giving Taitong a genuine and homely atmosphere.

Essential information:

Contact number: 081 894 3199

Address: Thailand, Montri, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/TaitongCafe/

Hidden Pot Bakery and Café

Hidden Pot Bakery and Café . Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/thehiddenpot/

If you are looking for a cafe which takes desserts seriously you’ve come to the right place! Their selection of tasty treats (including a delectable Thai Mango Panacotta) is impeccably presented – top one off with a latte or smoothie from a cute mason jar. Other big names on the menu include chocolate crepe cake or green tea flavored lava cake and ice cream, all of which are as yummy as they are photogenic.

With a cute yet rustic feel and the option to dine on a cushion on the floor (the traditional Thai way!), it’s the attention to detail of their sweet treats which secure the Hidden Pot as one of the most trendy food places in Phuket.

Essential information:

Contact number: 098 505 6616

Address: Soi Ruam Chai, Tambon Ko Kaeo, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/thehiddenpot/

Brown Café Bake and Blend

Brown Café Bake and Blend. Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/BrownBakeBlend/

Another Café which boasts a fantastic in-house bakery, Brown Café Bake and Blend focuses on using ingredients that are not only top quality but also locally sourced. With an impressive menu which will have you choosing between various freshly baked muffins, tarts and cakes, there is also a range of options for vegans and vegetarians.

With wooden tables, house plants and folding chairs, Brown Café has a relaxing vibe and is reasonably priced considering the quality of the food and drinks on offer. For a quick bite, indulge in a side of pasta or salad topped off with a generous mango smoothie!

Essential information:

Contact number: 090 965 4790

Address: Thailand, Thungkhar Rd, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/BrownBakeBlend/

Eleven Two & Co. Café

Eleven Two & Co. Café . Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/eleventwoandco/

A welcoming café in the heart of Phuket’s old town, Eleven Two and Co. has a sleek black and white décor and a wide selection of cuisine, ranging from classic Thai dishes to European favorites. Most impressive though are the fusion dishes – don’t miss the Caesar salad with crispy pork belly.

Not only is the food impressive. For those on a health kick or a hangover the selection of refreshing smoothies and juices are sure to do the trick – served in the same tall mason glasses as the equally tasty cocktails. Be sure to check out the quirky gift shop as you leave!

Essential information:

Contact number: 076 354 424

Address: Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/eleventwoandco/

Hock Hoe Lee

At the Hock Hoe Lee Cafe. Image source: http://phuketwalk.com/cafebar/hock-hoe-lee

Asian grown coffee is one of the continents best-kept secrets, and in Phuket, there is no better place for the coffee enthusiast than Hock How Lee. Founded by the great-grandfather of the current owner, this café boasts the title of Phuket’s first ever coffee roaster and has an extensive selection of locally brewed coffee to show for it. A must-visit for coffee connoisseurs, there are four blends (all sourced from Northern Thailand) to choose from.

As if that alone wasn’t enough to kickstart your day, a selection of breakfasts ranging from waffle eggs benedict to strawberry pancakes mean Hock Hoe Lee is more than worthy of a morning visit – as well as a place in the top ten chic food spots in Phuket.

Essential information:

Contact number: 076 211 228

Address: 183 Road,Taradneer Ranong, Taradneer, Mueng, Phuket 83000

Website: http://www.hockhoelee.com/

Kinsook Happy Eating Café

The choice is great at the Kinsook “Happy Eating Cafe”. Image source: https://www.facebook.com/Kinsook.HappyEating/

A café which is perfect for catering to almost any taste, the Kinsook Happy Eating Café has an incredibly diverse menu of Thai, Western and fusion cuisine. Healthy eaters, veggies and vegans will also find something they like, whether it be avocado salad, tofu or fresh smoothies, making this place a perfect crowd pleaser.

The whole wheat vegan banana cake is a must-taste which like the rest of the menu it is also MSG-free – no small feat for any Thai café. One of the top unique restaurants in Phuket, you’re sure to find something you love!

Essential information:

Contact number: 096 249 4515

Address: 151/3, Khaw Sim Bee Rd, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Kinsook.HappyEating/

Factory Café

Factory Cafe in Phuket. Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/FactoryCafe/

From the outside, it may look like nothing special but there is more to Phuket’s Factory café than meets the eye. Located in a quiet alley, the interior combines a ground floor café with the upstairs home studio of local architect Tantanan Srinawakul, resulting in a hip vibe and unique dining environment.

A must-visit amongst chic food spots in Phuket, Factory café specializes in upmarket Thai and fusion cuisine such as spaghetti with prawns and papaya salad. It also has an impressive dessert menu – the banoffee, whipped cream, and caramel pie, in particular, deserve a mention, but all are impressively presented.

Essential information:

Contact Number: 091 820 6900

Address: 83000 20/6 Mae Luan Rd, Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/FactoryCafe/

We Café

We Cafe. Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/WeCafephuket%20/

If fresh, organic produce is your jam, then We Café will satisfy your needs. Located adjacent to a farm which supplies many local businesses with fresh produce, the café also has its own on-site greenhouse (yes you read that right!) to provide it with organic lettuce.

Whilst fresh, custom salad is undoubtedly the signature dish at We Café, it is worth mentioning some of the other unique creations such as the tangy mango salsa chicken wrap and an original rice berry quinoa sushi roll. These are only a few of the options in the selection of sandwiches, wraps, smoothies and more which this café has to offer!

Essential information:

Contact number: 088 752 1352

Address: 5/30 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Wichit, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000

Website: https://www.facebook.com/WeCafephuket%20/

Can’t wait to visit them all? Start planning your Phuket stay with booking a private holiday villa in Phuket!

#chic food spots in Phuket #healthy food places in Phuket #top food spots in Phuket #where to eat in Phuket

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webbadgerblog · 6 years

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Win a Fabulous Christmas Gift Bundle in The Biggest and Most Exciting Competition of the Year!

I am delighted to launch my biggest ever competition in collaboration with the lovely folk over at The Scarlet Hotel, Veggie Desserts and Riverford Organic Food to offer one *very* lucky winner the chance to win a prize bundle worth £1500 – this bundle of unique Christmas gifts are guaranteed to evoke gasps of delight for the recipient on Christmas morning!

How To Take Part

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning this incredible prize is enter your details and share the love… please see the terms and conditions at the bottom of the page.

Win a Fabulous Christmas Gift Bundle 2

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(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = 'http://ift.tt/2zJOoeN'; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));

Thanks For Taking Part!

We would love to hear your comments at the bottom of the page on your unique gift ideas! Also feel free to tag or share with a friend that you would like to enjoy these prizes with x

Prize 1: Yvonne Coomber Art

About: Yvonne Coomber is a contemporary British artist who works en plein air and is best known for her depictions of the English countryside. Many of her paintings are inspired by the landscape, with particular focuses on the natural world and colour. Yvonne’s highly sought-after flowerscape paintings sing of tumbling hedgerows, tangled meadowlands, open moorland and magical forests. They whisper of love.

The Prize: A limited edition hand embellished and signed printed canvas called ‘You are my desire‘ worth £950. These sparkling, magical pieces are hand finished by Yvonne Coomber with a selection of inks, gold leaf, oils, glitters, glosses and are infused with a lot of love!

Prize 2: The Scarlet Hotel

About: The Scarlet Hotel is a luxury eco hotel for grown ups, situated in beautiful Mawgan Porth on the North Cornwall coast. The Scarlet boasts magnificent sea-view rooms, a restaurant to provide you with a true dining experience and a luxury spa.

The Prize: A night’s stay for two adults at this luxury eco hotel in North Cornwall, with 3 course dinner and bed and breakfast for each of you (total prize worth £400).

Prize 3: Veggie Desserts

About: Pushing far beyond the boundaries of the traditional carrot cake, Kate Hackworthy puts vegetables into scrumptious cakes, muffins, biscuits, tarts, brownies, pastries and even ice cream. Kate is a freelance food writer, cookbook author, magazine columnist and award-winning blogger who has many accreditations under her belt including: winner of “Best Food Blog” (UK National Blog Awards), Jamie Oliver Blog of the Month, Top Sante Magazine Bloggers of the Year among others.

The Prize: A copy of the newly released Veggie Desserts cookbook by popular food blogger and author Kate Hackworthy. To accompany is a selection of complementary books from the publishing house Pavilion.

Prize 4: Riverford Organic Food Veg Boxes

About: From one man and a wheelbarrow, to an award-winning organic delivery company, Riverford began with a farmer selling 30 veg boxes to neighbours and now deliver around 47,000 boxes a week to homes all across the UK. Riverford believes in good food, good farming and good business. Everything they grow and make is 100% organic.

The Prize: A month’s supply of veg boxes delivered to your home! Packed with 8 varieties of freshly picked seasonal vegetables, the medium organic veg boxes (worth £13.95 each) are picked, packed and delivered fresh from the Riverford farm. This seasonal organic veg will perk your plate up a treat. Happy cooking!

Unique Christmas Gifts For Art Lovers, Foodies and Travellers

For me, Christmas is a time of family, friends, comfort and joy. After a busy year of creating, travelling and exhibiting, a restful and heart-filled Christmas excites me more than ever. Loved ones come from all corners of the UK to celebrate with us at this festive time of year, and Mike and I delight in opening our home and hearts to welcome them. Along with happiness, stories and love, visitors sometimes bring gifts with them and we are often the grateful recipients of interesting and unique Christmas gifts from all over.

Whether foodie-influenced, artsy or related to holistic relaxation, my favourite Christmas gifts are often made by independent creatives or artisans. Pots, plates, candles, rugs, images, bath soaks and mosaics in my own home take on quite another meaning when I know they have been lovingly created by someone who makes their living (either partly or wholly) out of their creativity. Whether purchasing directly from an independent artist, or searching for unique Christmas gift ideas online, the joy felt when you get your hand-picked artwork home is unsurpassed.

Christmas Gifts for Art Lovers

Many of you write to tell me that you have long wished to have an original painting, printed canvas or fine art print to display in a special place in your home so that a kaleidoscope of wildflowers could smile at you forever and a day. Receiving a piece of treasured artwork as a gift is perhaps one of the most thoughtful and unique Christmas gifts as it shows the recipient that you have carefully considered the wishes and taste of the lucky recipient. And if you’re looking for a suitable gift for an art lover, you’ll know that the discerning eye of an arty aesthete can be hard to please.

Artwork shows originality and makes a unique gift as it lasts forever and often becomes a beloved heirloom passed down the generations. Giving artwork to a loved one is so very special as it is something completely individual and one-off.

Whether you choose a fine art print, hand-embellished canvas or you go all out this year and splash out on a truly special original painting, there is something to suit all pockets. Yvonne Coomber Art also offers gift vouchers to let that special person in your life choose their own special piece of artwork to treasure.

Gift Guide

Price: £20 – £4000

Who: For that special person in your life who deserves a truly beautiful and unique gift this Christmas

Uniqueness: An original painting is the only one like it in the world, no one else owns the same so it is a truly unique gift in every meaning of the word.

Web: http://ift.tt/2cns2jZ

Christmas Gifts for Travellers

Whether they love exploring foreign shores or prefer the ease of staycationing within the British Isles, it’s never easy to find unique gifts for wanderlusting individuals. Whisking your loved one away for a romantic break is not only the stuff romance novels are made of, but it creates treasured memories which last long after the holiday draws to a close. Enjoying time away from the whirr of everyday life is a delight which should be enjoyed at every opportunity, so gifting your beloved with such a thoughtful unique Christmas gift is sure to be a big hit on the big day.

Voted one of the top 20 hotels in the UK by Condé Nast readers, The Scarlet is a luxury eco hotel for adults on the north coast of Cornwall with sea view bedrooms, cliff top hot tubs, beautiful food and a luxurious spa. The Scarlet (along with its sister hotel The Bedruthan where my artwork is displayed), are my favourite hotels in the UK. Mike and I make sure we visit at least once a year, using it as a chance to unwind, recharge and take stock. With breathtaking views of cliff, sea and sky at every moment, and light airy spaces designed to connect you to the outdoors, it’s hard to describe the unique atmosphere of the Scarlet and the healing and restorative ambiance to be found there.

Gift Guide

Price: Rooms range from £230-£338. Spa treatments, meals and additions are extra.

Who: For someone who needs a little time out and couples who want some blissful relaxation together by the sea.

Uniqueness: The Scarlet is a hotel like no other with a very special ambiance.

Web: http://ift.tt/2afV6dr

Christmas Gifts for Foodies

Food serves as so much more than sustenance for many of us in the West. We have a deep attachment to food which is inseparably tied up in tradition, ceremony and emotion. We often enjoy a celebratory meal to signify a special occasion, and different foods can be a delicious treat for all the senses. Olfactory and gastronomic pleasures are some of the most evocative and memory-stirring experiences a human can enjoy. Giving a food-lover a unique Christmas gift which celebrates food and inspires new and creative baking ideas is a wonderful idea and will be well-received by the foodies in your life.

Pushing far beyond the boundaries of the traditional carrot cake, Kate Hackworthy puts vegetables into scrumptious cakes, muffins, biscuits, tarts, brownies, pastries and even ice cream. This, Kate’s inaugural recipe book, will delight foodies who love vegetables (and those who prefer them hidden in delicious sweet treats – children pay heed!). This imaginative book is not about sneaking vegetables in, but celebrating them as hero ingredients. The result is great-tasting treats that are a lot less naughty; something which should be on everyone’s Christmas list this year.

Gift Guide

Price: 4 hardback recipe books totaling £75

Who for: Food-lovers and those who want some inspiration for delicious healthy meals and snacks will love this bundle of newly-released cookbooks.

Uniqueness: The unique gift that keeps on giving… lucky recipients can experiment and create new recipes every single day, changing their food habits for a healthier (more delicious) new year.

Web: http://ift.tt/2t9nki2

From one man and a wheelbarrow, to an award-winning organic delivery company, Riverford began with a farmer selling 30 veg boxes to neighbours but now deliver around 47,000 boxes a week to homes all across the UK. Riverford believes in good food, good farming and good business. Everything they grow and make is 100% organic.

Arranging for a loved one to receive delicious veggies straight to their door is a thoughtful and practical gift, and one which will encourage them to try new vegetables and recipes. Healthy living has never been more delicious!

Gift Guide

Price: 1 month’s supply of veg boxes from Riverford Organic Food worth £55.80

Who For: Foodies who like their veggies organic, fresh and deliv ered straight from the farm to their door.

Uniqueness: The gift of food is a joyous one indeed. And what better way to celebrate Christmas than with a month’s subscription to receive delicious organic veggie boxes?

Web: www.riverford.co.uk

Terms

The competition closes at 1159pm on Friday 1st December and will be announced via social media and the Yvonne Coomber monthly newsletter within 2 weeks of the competition closing date

The winner will be notified via the newsletter and so entrants must remain subscribed to hear news of the winner

The competition is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over

There is no maximum amount of times an individual can enter, and each entry will be in with a chance of winning

The winner will be picked at random and Yvonne Coomber Art will send the printed canvas to the winner via first class post as soon as is reasonably possible. (It is the winner’s responsibility to reply with their full name and address in order to receive their prize). It will be the responsibility of the winner to contact the Scarlet Hotel, Riverford Organic and Veggie Desserts to claim their section of the prize.

The month’s supply of veg boxes from Riverford will be 1x medium original veg box worth £13.95 delivered weekly for 4 weeks

No cash alternative is available, and no correspondence appertaining to such will be entered into

The Promoter (Yvonne Coomber Art) and Partners (Scarlet Hotel, Riverford and Veggie Desserts) accept no responsibility for any technical issues, system or software failures encountered on or during entry to the promotion

The promoter’s decision is final

The winner’s name will be posted onto the website, as well as the Facebook page, newsletter and other social media platforms of the Promoter and their Partners. The winner agrees to the promoter and partners using their name in relevant marketing activity as they see fit (within reason)

Entrants must read and accept the above Terms & Conditions to be eligible to enter An entry will only be considered if the entrant likes the Yvonne Coomber Facebook page and is signed up to the newsletter (Notification reasons).

Neither the Promoter nor the Partners will be held responsible if the competition winner does not remain signed up to the newsletter and Facebook page to hear the announcement of who has won

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Rafflecopter or Gleam

Specific Ts & Cs for Scarlet Hotel:

The prize consists of a one night stay at the Scarlet Hotel in a ‘Just Right’ room based on two people sharing, and includes a three-course dinner and breakfast in the Scarlet Restaurant.

The prize must be taken between Sunday – Thursday. Cornish school holidays and bank holidays are excluded (this includes May half term, Easter, the school summer holidays, October half term, Christmas, Twixmas and New Years Eve).

Prize to be taken by two adults over 18 years of age

The outdoor hot tub is not included in the prize (but is only £20 for hotel guests for 30 minutes).

The prize is valid for 18 months from the announcement date and is subject to availability. Our reservations team can advise you of all these dates.

Travel costs are not included in the prize, the winners will need to make their own travel arrangements.

There is no cash alternative available for the prize as a whole or any of the elements included.

Entrants must be 18 or over to enter, and must not be an employee of the Bedruthan Hotel and Spa or the Scarlet Hotel.

Anything not detailed in these terms is chargeable.

Leave a Comment With Your Best Unique Gift Idea!

The post Unique Christmas Gift Ideas appeared first on Yvonne Coomber.

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gunboatbaylodge · 7 years

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Things to Do in Vancouver this Weekend: April 27, 2017

It’s a good weekend to be in Vancouver for all who appreciate the off-beat! The Vancouver Opera Festival begins with all the drama of powerful vocals telling the stories of Shakespeare, Mozart, and a novel-turned motion picture from the 90s (and it’s a fab excuse to dress up). There’s also some psychedelic options – Alex and Allyson Grey are in town, sparking a live painting and dance party on the same night as a bike rave. But wait, there’s even more…

Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Ongoing

Friday April 28

Vancouver Opera Festival Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Plaza What: Immerse yourself in the Shakespearean tragedy of Otello. Mix high fashion, humour, and Mozart and delight in the Marriage of Figaro. Or, face mortality with Dead Man Walking, based on the 1995 drama about a nun who comforts a convicted killer of death row. Runs until: Saturday May 13, 2017

The Visionary Life of Alex Grey and Allyson Grey

The Visionary Life of Alex Grey and Allyson Grey Where: The Vogue What: Join world renowned visionaries Alex Grey and Allyson Grey for their debut appearance in Vancouver as they present an illustrated discussion on their personal creative paths along with music from special guest Phaeleh (UK) and visuals by Onbeyond.

Real Men Real Makeup Where: The Imperial What: Join in the fun and debauchery by cheering on a bevy of local, average guys as they push themselves out of their comfort zones by dressing in drag and channelling their inner divas.

End of the Rainbow

End of the Rainbow Where: Staircase Theatre What: This gritty play with music is based on the true events of Judy Garland’s last comeback attempt in England in 1968. Runs until: Sunday May 20, 2017

Long Division

Long Division Where: The Annex Theatre What: The story revolves around seven characters who are inextricably linked by a sequence of tragic events. Through excursions into number theory, geometry, and logic, the players struggle to delineate their evocative, elusive patterns of entanglement, but find that one emotional variable consistently remains unsolved. Runs until: Sunday April 30, 2017

Robin Hood: Prince of Tease Where: Performance Works What: An original burlesque-style musical theatre production, inspired by the classic folklore of Robin Hood with a tantalizing twist. In this tale, most characters are gender-swapped and the relationships between the classic characters of Nottingham are turned on their heads. The story follows Robin as she conspires with her merry (wo)men to take down the tyrannical Prince Joan and her sadistic sidekick, the Sheriff of Nottingham. Runs until: Saturday May 13, 2017

The Shape of a Girl

The Shape of a Girl Where: Pacific Theatre What: Written by local playwright and based on the tragic murder of Reena Virk, a Victoria high school student. This is a topical piece as recently Kelly Ellard, one the key players in the Reena Virk case, had a parole hearing and has been allowed temporary escorted release. This production is a thought-provoking exploration on bullying and violence between young girls. Runs until: Saturday April 29, 2017

Saturday April 29

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Henry V Where: The Orpheum What: William Walton’s powerful and emotional score, Henry V, has become as beloved on the concert stage as it was in Olivier’s movie; hear it in all its glory with the VSO.

Metacosm Where: The Imperial What: An immersive multimedia event featuring the live painting experience of world renowned visionary artists Alex Grey and Allyson Grey.

Bike Rave

Bike Rave Where: Vancouver What: Dress up yourself and your bike in colours and lights.

The Rainbow Band Playing in Colours Where: Vancouver Community College What: A concert of musical numbers enriched with themes of rainbow colours.

Said the Whale

Said the Whale Where: The Vogue What: A JUNO Award-winning, radio chart-topping indie rock band.

Sunday April 30

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Daffodil Dash Where: False Creek What: This 1k walk and 5k family fun event welcomes participants of all ages and raises funds for cancer research, prevention, and support for people living with the disease.

Enigma Where: The Orpheum What: Join Bramwell Tovey and the VSO for a very special presentation of Elgar’s Enigma Variations: Maestro Tovey will deconstruct and explain this fascinating work with his trademark insight and wit, and then the orchestra will play the full piece, with all its secrets freshly revealed.

Drunk Magic with Wes Where: The Biltmore What: A magic show where the audience will choice the tricks… and the drinks! The outcome is impossible to predict, even for a magician.

Ongoing

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Capture Photography Festival | In Between Dreaming and Living

Capture Photography Festival Where: Various locations What: High-profile exhibitions as well as emerging talent and community participation are in the lens. There will be events in Vancouver’s leading public and commercial galleries, as well as public installations and a series of community-based photo workshops, tours, artist talks, films, and panel discussions. Runs until: Friday April 28, 2017

The Shape of a Girl

Long Division

Hastings Park Farmers Market

Hastings Park Farmers Market Where: Hastings Park (near the PNE) What: The Hastings Park Farmers Market features a great selection of local produce; nursery items, fish, meat & dairy; artisan prepared foods, baking and treats; local crafts, and of course, food trucks. Runs until: Sunday April 30, 2017

Warrior: George Littlechild

Warrior: George Littlechild Where: Kimoto Gallery What: In George Littlechild’s new series ‘Warrior’, he has painted 10 portraits (5 female & 5 male) of 10 individual First Nations people who are fighting the good fight for the planet, the environment and mankind. These individuals are dedicated and devoted to making positive change in their community and in the world, so that future generations will have a better place to inhabit. Runs until: Saturday April 29, 2017

The Tunnel Where: The Roundhouse Theatre What: A contemporary dance theatre production that asks its audience to enter the maze of the mind. Dancers move through a staged consciousness, immersed in the evolving light show as they struggle through turbulent thoughts battling themselves and each other. As their bodies bend and weave to the genre warping blend of music and sound design, the projections alter their shape, playing with the audience’s perception of what they are seeing. Runs until: Sunday April 30, 2017

Vertical Influences

Vertical Influences Where: Britannia Ice Rink What: Rising stars Le Patin Libre are creating a new kind of ice dancing, far beyond the confines of traditional figure skating. There are no sparkles, no stereotypes, and no fuzzy animal costumes. Coming off a sold-out European tour, this is your chance to see the fresh and inventive Canadian group before they explode onto the international scene. Runs until: Sunday April 30, 2017

Mom’s the Word 3: Nest ½ Empty Where: Arts Club Theatre What: From the world-renowned creative team behind the Mom’s the Word series comes a new chapter in their stories of family and fracas. Their kids are grown, their marriages have “evolved,” and their bodies are backfiring. Life doesn’t get any prettier, but it never strays far from ludicrous or poignant as the moms continue to mine their personal history for every embarrassing detail. Runs until: Saturday May 6, 2017

Abbotsford Bloom Tulip Festival Where: 36737 North Parallel Road, Abbotsford BC What: A chance to marvel at 10-acres of rainbow-coloured fields featuring more than 2.5 million tulips in a vivid display of breathtaking beauty. Visitors are invited to enjoy the view, get up close with the blooms, tiptoe through the expansive tulip fields, pick their own spring bouquets in the sprawling u-pick tulip field or purchase pre-picked tulips in the “Bloom-Mobile”, an on-site flower shop. Runs until: Sunday May 7, 2017

Vancouver Opera Festival Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Plaza What: The first edition of Vancouver Opera Festival is a celebration of the vocal and theatrical arts. At its core, three new productions: a seldom performed masterpiece, a beloved classic, and a contemporary tour de force. Runs until: Saturday May 13, 2017

Western World

Western World Where: Vancouver Improv Centre (Granville Island) What: Vancouver TheatreSports’™ improvisers will demonstrate their lightning fast wit as they play the “hosts” to the audience “guests” in Western World – an improvised parody inspired by the popular TV series Westworld. Runs until: Saturday May 13, 2017

The Piano Teacher Where: Arts Club Theatre What: When Erin, a classical pianist, experiences the loss of the life she knew, she also finds herself dealing with the departure of her own musical expression. Navigating her way through this change, she meets an unconventional piano teacher who gives her new hope for the future. Runs until: Sunday May 13, 2017

End of the Rainbow

End of the Rainbow Where: Staircase Theatre What: This gritty play with music is based on the true events of Judy Garland’s last comeback attempt in England in 1968. Runs until: Sunday May 20, 2017

Susan Point: Spindle Whorl

Susan Point: Spindle Whorl Where: Vancouver Art Gallery What: Since the early 1980s, Susan Point has received wide acclaim for her remarkably accomplished oeuvre that forcefully asserts the vitality of Coast Salish culture, both past and present. She has produced an extensive body of prints and an expansive corpus of sculptural work in a wide variety of materials that includes glass, resin, concrete, steel, wood and paper. Runs until: Sunday May 28, 2017

Pacific Crossings: Hong Kong Artists in Vancouver | Sunset, Carrie Koo

Pacific Crossings: Hong Kong Artists in Vancouver Where: Vancouver Art Gallery What: June 2017 marks the 20-year anniversary of the transfer of Hong Kong sovereignty from the United Kingdom to mainland China. In the lead up to the handover, tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents immigrated to Canada, many choosing to settle in Vancouver, and among them were a significant number of artists. Pacific Crossings presents works from well-known Hong Kong artists created after their relocation to Vancouver throughout the 1960-90s. Runs until: May 28, 2017

Retainers of Anarchy

Retainers of Anarchy Where: Vancouver Art Gallery What: A solo exhibition featuring new work from Howie Tsui that considers wuxia, a traditional form of martial arts literature, as a narrative tool for dissidence and resistance. Runs until: May 28, 2017

Caroline Mesquita The Ballad

Caroline Mesquita The Ballad Where: Centre 221A What: A sculptural practice that intertwines the materiality of altered, oxidized, and painted copper and brass sheets with theatrical playfulness. Runs until: Saturday June 3, 2017

Song of the Open Road

Song of the Open Road Where: Contemporary Art Gallery What: Bringing together artists from Canada, Eritrea, Ireland, Sweden, and the US, the exhibition includes works that combine thematically to interrogate ideas rooted in photographic histories, engaging ideas such as veracity, recollection, remembrance, belonging, staging, and how the image documents and records these or is evidence of differing realities. Runs until: Sunday June 18, 2017

Up Close

Up Close Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden What: All the artists represented in this group exhibition find their inspiration while painting on location at VanDusen Garden. The Vancouver en plein air group, initiated in April 2011, zooms-in to the lush vegetation that provides a new dimension of foreground details. The subjects are varied, and so is the medium. Runs until: Tuesday June 27, 2017

Xi Xanya Dzam – Those Who Are Amazing At Making Things Where: The Bill Reid Gallery What: Xi Xanya Dzam (pronounced hee hun ya zam) is the Kwak’wala word describing incredibly talented and gifted people who create works of art. The exhibition is both a showcase and a critical exploration of ‘achievement’ and ‘excellence’ in traditional and contemporary First Nations art. Runs until: Sunday September 4, 2017

Panda International Night Market Where: Richmond, BC What: A diverse market in Richmond, with shopping, food, beverages, and a game zone. Runs until: Monday September 11, 2017

The Lost Fleet Exhibit Where: Vancouver Maritime Museum What: On December 7, 1941 the world was shocked when Japan bombed Pearl Harbour, launching the United States into the war. This action also resulted in the confiscation of nearly 1,200 Japanese-Canadian owned fishing boats by Canadian officials on the British Columbia coast, which were eventually sold off to canneries and other non-Japanese fishermen. The Lost Fleet looks at the world of the Japanese-Canadian fishermen in BC and how deep-seated racism played a major role in the seizure, and sale, of Japanese-Canadian property and the internment of an entire people. Runs until: Winter 2017

Bill Reid Creative Journeys | Image via the Canadian Museum of History

Bill Reid Creative Journeys Where: The Bill Reid Gallery What: Celebrating the many creative journeys of acclaimed master goldsmith and sculptor Bill Reid (1920–1998), this exhibition provides a comprehensive introduction to his life and work. Runs until: Sunday December 10, 2017

Amazonia: The Rights of Nature

Amazonia: The Rights of Nature Where: UBC Museum of Anthropology What: MOA will showcase its Amazonian collections in a significant exploration of socially and environmentally-conscious notions intrinsic to indigenous South American cultures, which have recently become innovations in International Law. These are foundational to the notions of Rights of Nature, and they have been consolidating in the nine countries that share responsibilities over the Amazonian basin. Runs until: January 28, 2018

What are you up to this weekend? Tell me and the rest of Vancouver in the comments below or tweet me directly at @lextacular

Inside Vancouver Blog

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marklipinski · 7 years

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ARTspiration

Artists or art that turns me on and feeds my soul. This piece is called FIRST CLASS by James Rieck, painted in 2016. It’s 84″x60″ oil on canvas and its current price is $24,500

YOKE DU YOUR

A father buys a lie detector that makes a loud beep whenever somebody lies around it. The son comes home in the afternoon. Father asks him, “So, you were at school today, right?”

Son: “Yeah.”

Detector: “Beep.“

Son: “OK, OK, I went to a movie.”

Detector: “Beep.”

Son: “Alright, I was drinking beer with my friends.”

Father: “What?! At your age, I wouldn’t touch alcohol!“

Detector: “Beep.”

Mother laughs: “Ha ha ha, well, he really is your son!”

Detector: “Beep.”

DESIGNspiration

Look around you. Design is everywhere! How can you incorporate the beauty that surrounds you into your art or craft?

IDEA I LOVE

I LOVE this folded felt bag. When Jodie and I were filming Quilt Out Loud, we shot an episode from Brooklyn General Store in, of course, Brooklyn. They had an amazing selection of heavy felt and I’m sorry, to this day, that I didn’t buy some while I was there. Here’s the tutorial for making this Fold Up Felt Bag (which I think is perfect for holding craft supplies):

http://www.instructables.com/id/Fold-up-Felt-Bag/?ALLSTEPS

EMBROIDERYspiration!

Who doesn’t long for “Home Sweet Home” (especially when everything seems to be utter chaos)? Settle in and embroider this easy and colorful pillow. It’s the next best thing (or in my case, even better than) ever going back to Mayer Drive! :) Here’s the tutorial:

http://www.homedit.com/embroidered-throw-pillow/

YUMMY DISH!

Thai Beef Stew with Lemongrass and Noodles

Ingredients

lemongrass stalks

garlic

kaffir lime leaves

chopped peeled ginger

Thai chiles

boneless beef chuck

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

vegetable oil

star anise pods

cinnamon stick

reduced-sodium soy sauce

fish sauce (such as nam pla or nuoc nam)

light brown sugar

unsweetened coconut flakes

shallots

carrots

scallions

wide rice noodles

Lime wedges

FOR THE FULL RECIPE, CLICK HERE http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/thai-beef-stew-lemongrass-noodles

IDEA I LOVE

I’m kinda hoping that using this skin-loving, winter-hating coconut oil lotion bar won’t eat away your nail polish … I’m also hoping that the manicure above isn’t a new trendy fashion statement. If the cold winds has your skin stinging and singing “How Dry I Am” then you might want to whip up a few lotion bars for yourself (wear gloves?!?). Here’s how:

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Coconut-Oil-Lotion-Bar

BREATHLESS INSPIRATION

Needlepoint artist, Ulla Stina Wikander of Sweeden, transforms old items and transforms them into needlepoint art by covering them in gorgeous needlepointed designs. Take a look. For more, here is a link t0 her website: http://www.usw.se/konst/index.htm

SO DRINK, CHUG-A-LUG CHUG-A-LUG

WILLIAM FAULKNER’S HOT TODDY RECIPE

Faulkner’s niece gives directions for making his version of this hot wintry cocktail.

“Pappy alone decided when a Hot Toddy was needed, and he administered it to his patient with the best bedside manner of a country doctor.

He prepared it in the kitchen in the following way: Take one heavy glass tumbler. Fill approximately half full with Heaven Hill bourbon (the Jack Daniel’s was reserved for Pappy’s ailments). Add one tablespoon of sugar. Squeeze 1/2 lemon and drop into glass. Stir until sugar dissolves. Fill glass with boiling water. Serve with potholder to protect patient’s hands from the hot glass.”

Pappy always made a small ceremony out of serving his Hot Toddy, bringing it upstairs on a silver tray and admonishing his patient to drink it quickly, before it cooled off. It never failed.

Ingredients

Bourbon

Sugar

Lemon

Boiling Water

For original resource, CLICK http://literaryman.com/2012/09/25/faulkners-hot-toddy-cures-everything/

IDEA I LOVE

Sorry, you’re going to have to live with the bags under your eyes and crow’s feet that can hold a 3-day rain. But if you want to get rid of wrinkled clothing without ironing, try this simple DIY Wrinkle Release Spray. Here’s how:

http://www.popsugar.com.au/smart-living/DIY-Wrinkle-Release-Spray-42366839

WORDS TO LIVE BY

IDEA I LOVE

Gather your indigo blues and make a patchwork clutch with sashiko! Look, I know what traditional sashiko is. I think I might up the ante of this generous tutorial and start mixing different colored threads, and even fabrics to make this project “my own.” Start here for wonderous inspiration and for the tutorial:

http://www.lindseycrafterblog.com/2017/01/make-patchwork-clutch-with-sashiko.html]

MAN CAN LIVE BY BREAD ALONE!

MARZIPAN TWIST SWEET BREAD

Ingredients:

Dough: milk sugar yeast flour salt butter lemon egg

Filling: almonds eggs sugar water almond extract

Glaze: powdered sugar, sifted emon juice water

For the full recipe CLICK HERE: https://cookiescakespiesohmy.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/dscn06802.jpg

MEMBA?

Formica kitchen tables . . .

And now a word . . .

Now that the weather is cool, I’m heading back upstairs to continue clearing out my studio. Get first dibs on all of my eBay listings when you follow the Pickle Road Stash Busting page on Facebook! Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PickleRoadStashBusting/

I also started a YouTube page and will, eventually be doing some live broadcasts and probably a few online classes there. I will be uploading all of the Facebook Live videos to my channel first (and adding retroactive links to this blog). I already have some uploaded and am working backward — hopefully, I can organize them later. Then, I’ll think about creating and adding original content. Please subscribe to my channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeWRvfCwPVqbXXvphw6bsVg

If you missed the last Facebook LIVE, you can watch it here…

If you’d like me to address anything, comment or answer any specific questions on my live feed, please just email me and I’ll get right to it. Email me at [email protected]

COOKIES!

BUTTERMILK COOKIES

Ingredients

For cookies

all-purpose flour

grated lemon zest

baking soda

salt

unsalted butter

granulated sugar

eggs

pure vanilla extract

buttermilk

For glaze

confectioners sugar

buttermilk

pure vanilla extract

FOR THE FULL RECIPE, CLICK HERE http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/buttermilk-cookies-241199

LOL

JUST BECAUSE, I SWOON

This is a superb and early example of the brilliant Marimekko textiles that were made into simple clothing that went with the Marimekko lifestyle brand. The Marimekko company was founded in 1951 by Armi and Viljo Ratia and they quickly became known for making pieces of boldly printed fabric. The label on this dress dates it to the late 1960s and it is very unusual and striking in its cut. It is cut slim through the shoulders and then expands with a massive amount of volume from there. The sleeves mimic this with a narrow shoulder and then end in a wide cut sleeve. Both the hem of the dress and the sleeves are cut in gentle curves with the front portions of each significantly shorter then the back. The effect if these giant curves against the sharp angular print is genius. It is an amazing piece of fashion history. $625.00

IDEA I LOVE! CROCHETspiration

This is called the OH MY crocheted blanket. What a pretty stitch and the colors take me away from snowy Pickle Road to the beaches of San Juan, one of my favorite getaway places.

FOR THE FREE PATTERN, CLICK ON THE LINK: http://www.mooglyblog.com/oh-my-blanket/

BE DAZZLED!

Chaumet Hortensia ring in pink gold, set with rubies, pink sapphires, diamonds, red tourmaline drops and an 8.6ct round faceted pink tourmaline in the centre.

PATCHWORK, BABY! QUILTspiration!

WINGIN’ IT QUILT

Adapted from a Quilt Designed by Sandra Clemons for McCall’s Quilting

This free queen size quilt pattern is super easy and fast to piece! The Diamond Panes quilt blocks go together quickly and give an illusion of sashing when set together. Don’t miss the Wingin’ It lap quilt pattern in the McCall’s Quick Quilts issue

Download the FREE Wingin’ It queen size quilt pattern.

SHOEspiration

Don’t judge . . .

IDEA I LOVE! VALENTINEspiration

Just about 4 weeks until Valentine’s Day. That means you have enough time to have this ‘Encircled Love’ mini-quilt table topper pieced and then actually quilted by Valentine’s Day 2037. Here’s the tutorial:

http://kittensandthreads.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/EncircledLoveMiniQuiltPattern.p

IDEA I LOVE! KNITspiration!

LOVE this KNITTED afghan worked in the Slip Stitch. The waffle weave it creates is perfect for the men in your life. The color choices here are terrific, too. No, we don’t need another Granny Square and/or Clam Shell stitched blanket, but thanks for asking. Here’s the PDF pattern:

https://www.michaels.com/on/demandware.static/Sites-Site/Sites-siteCatalog_michaels_US/default/v1411505193064/project_pdf/54711_revised.pdf

GARDENspiration

This little fairy cup garden is super cute and easy to take care of (that is, if you’re not packing it with orchids). It’s also an amazing little gift for a hostess, a sick friend, birthday surprise, or a just because I’m thinking of you. Here’s how to make one:

http://www.thecraftaholicwitch.com/2016/08/20/create-a-cute-cup-garden/

MUST HAVE

Are there words for this? Are there? Words?

Well, I don’t care. I don’t even have a cat and I want this handicat kitty finger puppet. And it’s on sale. Get yours here:

http://www.perpetualkid.com/handicat-kitty-finger-puppet/

IDEA I LOVE!

So you’ve spent a crap-load of dough on making a new quilt, to match your room. Why not use your scraps to cover your switch plate for a total custom look? All of your friends will be green with envy and begging you for the name of your decorator. Start here:

http://tidymom.net/2010/fabric-covered-switch-plate-tutorial/

IDEA I LOVE

This DIY Coiled Rope Tassel Bowl would be great for holding all of your crochet hooks, rug-making hooks, spools of threads, notions or small rulers. Filling anything with ‘power bars’ is so foreign to me that it confused me. I mean, when you’re on a diet, don’t you eat all of them at one time? Here’s how to make a rope bowl so you can put what you want in it:

http://fallfordiy.com/blog/2017/01/06/diy-coiled-rope-tassel-bowl/

IDEA I LOVE

Move your weave so you can hear me! THIS PROJECT LOOKS LIKE HUGE FUN. Here’s how to make your own DIY woven scarf without a loom! It’s like magic. Here’s where you start:

http://www.hefty.co/dyi-woven-scarf/

DESSERT!

CLASSIC LEMON MERINGUE PIE

January 23, 2017 is National Pie Day

Ingredients

all-purpose flour

salt

shortening

cold water

FILLING:

sugar

cornstarch

all-purpose flour

salt

water

egg yolks

butter

grated lemon peel

lemon juice

MERINGUE:

sugar

cornstarch

cold water

egg whites

vanilla extract

FOR THE FULL RECIPE, CLICK HERE http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/classic-lemon-meringue-pie

IDEA I LOVE

The first time I saw a truly remarkable piece of Mexican yarn art was in the design studio of Karen Kay Buckley (I hope I’m remembering correctly). I remember thinking then, “I wonder how they did that?” This piece is super easy, elementary, and fairly uninspired, but, Oh cupcakes, imagine learning the technique then soaring with your own creative interpretation. Learn the fundies here:

http://www.zombieswearinghelmets.com/2011/06/paint-with-yarn.html

IDEA I LOVE

Judging from what I’ve been seeing online, it seems like avocados are the new trendy thang. I have to be honest, I would NEVER paint on a new shirt (unless I found it super cheap and then 75% off) but I would get a second-hand store blouse or shirt to customize. Why look like everybody else? Do your own Project Runway unique design challenge. Start with painting and changing buttons here:

http://studiodiy.com/2017/01/12/diy-avocado-buttons/

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD

If you’re liking this blog Please tell your friends about it! I’d really appreciate it!

Just cut and paste this into an email or post on your Facebook and Twitter pages:

I LOVE this blog and think you will, too! Check it out: https://marklipinskisblog.wordpress.com

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT

PLUS . . . Recipes, Videos, Inspiration, Creativity, Ideas, and More! ARTspiration Artists or art that turns me on and feeds my soul. This piece is called FIRST CLASS by James Rieck, painted in 2016.

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