Looming large on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in the center of Philadelphia, the Barnes Foundation is an expansive, modern art museum that houses the vast private collection of Dr. Albert C. Barnes. Barnes was a renowned chemist and art enthusiast who owned an extensive array of incredible and rare works until he passed away in the 1950s.

With over 12,000 square feet of stunning, light-filled gallery space, the museum is home to the largest collection of impressionist art in the world, with approximately 200 works by Renoir, and about 4,000 valuable and unique pieces by Picasso, Monet, Cézanne, Degas, Matisse—along with other famous and well-respected artists.

READ MORE


READ THE PDF

The post The Complete Guide To Philadelphia’s Barnes Foundation appeared first on Marla Cimini.

In Southern California, the town of Pasadena is a great place to visit! It’s a very short drive from Los Angeles and it’s filled with unique art galleries, lovely design, and fascinating architecture. For most of us, the town of Pasadena, California, is synonymous with the Rose Bowl and its legendary Tournament of Roses Parade, the exquisitely colorful annual extravaganza held every New Year’s Day, featuring intricately designed floats that are decorated with thousands of vibrant flowers and organic materials, and they first rolled down the sun-soaked streets in 1890.

Pasadena, however, offers more than simply an abundance of multi-hued blossoms. With a name that means “crown of the valley,” it’s also an interesting destination for art and architecture. Connected to Los Angeles via the Arroyo Seco Parkway, Pasadena is 11 miles from downtown L.A., but far from Hollywood’s glitz. Instead, it offers a quiet sophistication and thriving community for those who are visiting Pasadena.

“The city of Pasadena was founded by culturally minded citizens who valued both art and architecture. As a result, there has been a huge sense of patronage that has been fostered throughout the years,” says Rochelle Branch, the city’s cultural affairs division manager. Branch points to a few specific examples, including music (the Pasadena Symphony), dance (the Pasadena Dance Theatre, which presents “The Nutcracker” each year in the historic San Gabriel Mission Playhouse; the modern dance company Lineage Dance; and the Pasadena Civic Ballet), and, of course, myriad ways to experience the visual arts.

With a population of about 142,000, the city is expansive and its neighborhoods are best explored both on foot and by car. Visitors may be pleasantly surprised by the robust offerings packed into this small town. For example, in the Old Pasadena district alone, more than 200 boutiques, cafés, and restaurants are spread across 20 historic blocks that includes the main thoroughfare, Colorado Street.

An ideal way to experience the city’s art is through one of several self-guided art walk tours that showcase various works by local and national artists, including murals and interactive sculptures. And while meandering through downtown, visitors can’t help but admire the 1920s Mediterranean Revival architecture of landmark buildings, such as Pasadena’s city hall and the Central Library.

Nearby, one of the city’s most impressive art destinations is the Norton Simon Museum. This private art collection, housed in a minimalist structure, features European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, modern works, and a collection of South and Southeast Asian art spanning 2,000 years. It includes works by Cezanne, Degas, Picasso, Rembrandt, and many others. In a serene outdoor café set within a sculpture garden and pond filled with water lilies, guests can easily imagine that Monet would have felt right at home here.

Across town, visitors can easily spend a full day strolling through the world famous Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens. Every year, this sprawling research and educational institute hosts more than 750,00 visitors. Recent enhancements include the new 8,600-square-foot, $10 million-dollar, glass-enclosed, American art wing that opened in late 2016. The Huntington’s art collections focus on European art from the 15th to the early 20th century and American art from the late 17th to the late 20th century. And each season, the botanical garden offers special experiences, so it’s best to plan accordingly. April, for example, is the ideal month to see the rose garden in its full glory and enjoy the splendor of the cactus garden’s brightly colored blooms. The gardens also feature several restaurants and cafés, including a dumpling house situated by the serene lake in the tranquil Chinese-inspired Garden of Flowing Fragrance. The gift shop offers items from local artisans, including jars of orange marmalade made with fruit from the gardens’ own grove.

When it comes to architecture in Pasadena, the city hosts a premier example of the Arts and Crafts movement, the famed Gamble House built by renowned architectural firm Greene and Greene. Tours are arranged in advance, and visitors can choose from an array of experiences guided by professional docents sharing behind-the-scenes stories. Nearby, design buffs can catch a glimpse of the town’s only Frank Lloyd Wright house — hidden in plain sight.

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood is another unexpected gem, the Storrier Stearns Japanese garden, located across the street from the lovely Arlington Garden. For design fans, the quiet neighborhood surrounding the historical luxury hotel, the Langham, is perfect for viewing a multitude of Craftsman homes built by Greene and Greene and their contemporaries.

The Pasadena Museum of California Art shines a spotlight on modern artists unique to the Golden State. The 30,000-square-foot building was developed by architect Johnson Favaro and opened in 2002. Every museum has its surprises, so peek in the parking garage for a glimpse at the Kosmic Krylon Garage exhibition of street art painted by artist Kenny Scharf.

Exhibiting innovative revolving shows, the cavernous Armory Center for the Arts features awe-inspiring contemporary art and performances. It also offers a robust roster of weekly classes for both children and adults.

And although Pasadena shines brilliantly when it comes to outstanding large-scale museums and its public art collection, there are also notable small galleries in town, including Galerie Gabrie and Tirage Fine Art Gallery. Both feature plein air works as well as diverse pieces from international artists.

For those with a thirst for creativity, Pasadena is an under-the-radar escape from the big city of L.A. and is very much worthy of several days of exploration. With the delightful wealth of art and architecture in this city, it’s no wonder visitors leave feeling artistically inspired.

The post Visit Pasadena, California and enjoy art and design 2022 appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Works of public art often become iconic landmarks in cities across the United States. Think of Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”) in Chicago, the Statue of Liberty in New York City or Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. And at least one of your friends probably has a photo taken in front of Elmgreen & Dragset’s Prada Marfa, the abandoned Prada store that appears as a mirage 26 miles outside of Marfa, Texas.

From sea to shining sea, the U.S. is filled with fine art in plain sight. Sculptures or murals highlight street corners and courtyards, museum-quality pieces are displayed in public view and site-specific works break the monotony of the everyday hustle. Such creative efforts prove that art is meaningful as a collective experience.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt established a legacy of public art with the Works Progress Administration, which employed hundreds of artists and resulted in more than 100,000 paintings and murals and more than 18,000 sculptures, as part of a Great Depression relief program. Participants included the best minds of Abstract Expressionism: Jackson Pollock, Lee Krasner, Willem de Kooning and Mark Rothko. Today, more than half of the states in the U.S. participate in “percent for art” programs, allocating a percentage of infrastructure costs (typically about 1 percent) for public artworks. And over the last 40 years, the number of cities in the U.S. that have adopted public art ordinances has grown to more than 300, writes Jack Becker in his introduction to Public Art/Public Space, the Sculptural Environments of Barbara Grygutis.

Public art also generates exposure for artists, offering collectors a fresh opportunity to view their work. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for example, the SculptureWalk program features a selection of mixed-media statues displayed along the city’s uptown, downtown and East Bank neighborhoods. The statues are displayed for 12 months and replaced each May. In 2017, the program introduced 56 new statues with an estimated value of $1.2 million. Of the 750 sculptures on exhibit, 200 have been sold, leased or commissioned and others remain as part of the permanent collection.

READ MORE


READ THE PDF

The post Collector’s Notebook: Art in the Open appeared first on Marla Cimini.

With a signature architectural style, classic mid-century modern hotels emerged throughout the U.S. from the 1940s through the 1960s. This design movement was characterized by minimalist structures and clean lines, accented by simple décor in vibrant colors. Instantly recognizable, mid-century hotels are popular both with nostalgic travelers and with millennials who admire the timeless modern design and the casual ambiance it embodies.

In recent years, several iconic U.S. mid-century hotels have been reinvented and given a new, contemporary point of view, while still retaining the essence of the era. These properties have embraced their mid-century heritage with a renewed vibe and updated feel, inviting guests to enjoy a glimpse of stylish (and sometimes kitschy) history while enjoying modern comforts and amenities.

The Monkey Tree Hotel
Palm Springs, Calif.

A hotbed of mid-century architecture, the city of Palm Springs is known for its numerous examples of both private residences and hotels. Showcasing its well-defined mid-century history, the boutique Monkey Tree opened its doors in 2016 as a revitalized version of its former inception, which was designed in 1960 by famed Palm Springs architect Albert Frey. A renowned celebrity hangout in years past, guests of the Monkey Tree have included stars Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Eric Clapton, the Beatles (except for Paul), Bob Hope and Katharine Hepburn.

Currently, the resort is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Gary and Kathy Friedle, who recently transformed this 16-room property into a whimsical yet sophisticated desert getaway, featuring a classic design as well as the area’s only Scandinavian spa.

Kathy explained, “We endeavored to recreate the feel of 1960s Palm Springs ‘chill’ with a few modern twists. The design of the individual rooms is simple and clean. Our goal was to create a comfortable environment for our guests without pretension. Fortunately for us, not many alterations had been done over the past years — and the excellent 1960 bones of the Monkey Tree Hotel were intact.”

Developing a festive mid-century ambiance, the couple sourced all the 1960s furnishings locally in Palm Springs — from flea markets, consignment stores, auctions and estate sales. The resort’s interior and exterior features pops of bright yellow and teal, which was inspired by the couple’s visit to the Albert Frey II house. Surrounding the pool is yellow and white repurposed patio furniture. Outside of all hotel rooms are authentic Salterini teal lounge chairs and cocktail tables that were original to the property.

The Diplomat Beach Resort
Hollywood Beach, Fla.

A rekindled beachfront spirit, The Diplomat hotel was a hip Southern Florida hangout for Frank Sinatra and his “Rat Pack” buddies in the 1960s. After a grand re-opening in April 2017, the Diplomat celebrates its illustrious past with a multi-million-dollar renovation and distinctive design elements.

The resort’s room and suite design taps into the mid-century modern appeal featuring simple, contemporary furnishings with bold pops of colors and sharp lines. There are plenty of nostalgic accents throughout, including the coral-colored logo, black and white surf photos, antique light fixtures and retro furniture. For an added touch, mini 1950s-style refrigerators in bright hues are featured in the rooms — an obvious nod to the mod.

The resort sports three swimming pools, 10 restaurants and cafes, a spa and an abundance of indoor and outdoor lounging areas.

Shai Zelering, the managing director for Brookfield Hotel Properties, says, “The design direction was simple. Bring the outside in — and inside out. And make it very comfortable. The Diplomat Beach Resort isn’t a catwalk. It is a place that should welcome me for a weekend.”

Andaz West Hollywood

With a prime location in the heart of Hollywood’s famed Sunset Strip, the Andaz WeHo’s clean lines and minimalist exterior instantly became a legendary property. Nicknamed the Hyatt “riot” House during its heyday in the early 1970s, it was a raucous home-away-from-home for major rock bands including Led Zeppelin and The Who.

Today, the 14-story, 239-room landmark Los Angeles property embodies the mid-century feel with an airy, modern lobby featuring retro-style decor. Rooms include streamlined furnishings, glass-enclosed balconies and a selection of vintage vinyl records to inspire musical exploration. The hotel’s rooftop pool deck is the highest in West Hollywood, overlooking the vibrant neighborhood that attracts locals and tourists.

In early 2017, potter, designer and author Jonathan Adler created the property’s new (Andaz)RED suite that reflects the hotel’s rock and roll roots through chic ’70s-inspired artwork and decor. With a red, white and blue color palette, the room includes gold and brass accents. It is furnished with custom pieces (as well as items from the Jonathan Adler collection), continuing his theme of “modern American glamour.”

Adler stated, “Over the years, there has been a revival in appreciation for mid-century design at home, and now people want those same clean, thoughtful designs when they travel.  The idea of a luxurious hotel has changed (thankfully!) — it’s no longer about overstuffed, baroque chintz.”

Watergate Hotel
Washington

Known for its infamous role in the 1970s political scandal, the Watergate Hotel’s iconic architecture is considered a classic example of mid-century hotel design. Perched by the banks of the Potomac River, the iconic property was revitalized in 2016. After being shuttered for over a decade, the hotel today is reinvigorated, following extensive renovations and major luxurious upgrades.

Originally opened in 1967, the Watergate was designed by Italian architect Luigi Moretti, known for his inventive and unusual structural approach. The hotel’s latest interior style was re-imagined by designer Ron Arad, who honored the existing avant-garde architecture with modern décor and metal art installations throughout the vast lobby and public spaces.

The hotel features nearly 400 modern rooms and suites, many with balconies and river views; a state-of-the-art 12,000-square-foot spa and fitness center; and an upscale restaurant as well as chic bar and rooftop lounge. Adding a dramatic centerpiece to the lobby is an artful 46-foot-long brass reception desk that instantly draws the attention of guests upon arrival. The invigorated space also features soaring metallic columns and reflective surfaces, a bold red sectional sofa and intricately patterned hand-woven rugs in shades of black and grey.

Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina
Hawaii

Though it was built in the 1990s, the Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina encompasses a classic mid-century timelessness, as it was designed by renowned architect Edward Killingsworth, considered an American “master of modernism.” Since the early 1960s, he has developed numerous minimalist structures throughout Hawaii and Southern California.

Situated on Oahu’s western coast, the 17-story property with nearly 400 rooms was renovated and renewed in 2016. The newly restored resort features an abundance of locally inspired décor to create an authentic Hawaiian ambiance throughout the entire property. The refurbishment added “Kama’aina-style” open air seamless indoor/outdoor experiences and majestic ocean views — in public areas as well as the guestrooms.

The resort’s renovation shines a spotlight on local designer (and descendant of Hawaiian royalty) Mary Philpotts. She curated an array of island-produced materials made by local artisans to complement the streamlined modern architecture. Artistic as well as functional, these elements include: guestroom carpeting featuring a floral motif, monkey pod and koa wood tables, reclaimed wood carvings, lava stone walls, banana-bark headboards, repurposed teak decks and handmade weavings.

The resort also features four swimming pools adjacent to the beach, an expansive spa with seventeen treatment rooms, a wellness center and four dining options.

The post Mid-Century Modern Hotels Swing into a New Era appeared first on Marla Cimini.

As a self-proclaimed “guitar nerd,” country music icon and Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Vince Gill owns a serious collection of stringed instruments himself. So it’s no surprise that he was named as ambassador of the brand-new Songbirds Guitar Museum in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Gill enthusiastically embraces the role and ties it to his own career. “These things make a beautiful sound and they are inspiring to play and hear and hold. There is really something about the kinship of an instrument in someone’s hands who is trying to be creative. Without the guitar, I would not have written all these songs, I wouldn’t have played all these shows and I wouldn’t have done all the things that I’ve been able to do.”

The Songbirds museum is the new home to what is considered by aficionados as the premier private collection of rare guitars in the world. The collection features approximately 1,700 significant guitars from the early 20th century to the 1970s. At 7,500 square feet, Songbirds will be interactive, displaying approximately 500 of the instruments in permanent and rotating exhibits, grouped by manufacturer, theme and era, with a selection of vintage acoustic, electric, jazz, bass, mandolin, banjos as well as memorabilia.

With a grand opening set for March 10 (and a soft launch just underway), the museum organizers expect it to be a significant boost to Chattanooga tourism, attracting more than 100,000 visitors annually. It is located in a space intertwined with city’s history: the legendary Chattanooga Choo-Choo terminal station that opened in 1908. (The namesake song turned 75 last year).

Exhibits will showcase the evolution of the guitar through various musical genres, including blues, jazz, Motown, country, the British Invasion and surf guitar — and of course rock ’n’ roll. The museum is not focused on which musicians owned or played the guitars, but rather the beauty, craftsmanship and significance of the instruments themselves.

Valued at more than $200 million, Songbirds’ extensive collection of American-made instruments includes 300-plus one-of- a-kind custom-color Fender guitars; 75 custom-color Gibson guitars; plus original five-string banjos and mandolins from Martin, Gibson and other companies.

The museum will offer VIP access to other exclusive experiences with advance reservations (and added expense). The Green Room is a separate area for pre-arranged private or small-group guided tours that features guitars considered “best of the best.” Further back, the Songbirds Vault houses the crown jewels of the collection.

In addition, Songbirds will display a section of special guitars curated by Gill that will evolve. The first includes Don Rich’s gold sparkle Telecaster from 1964, a one-of-a-kind instrument that Rich played often with Buck Owens in the 1960s.

Other rare instruments included in Gill’s personal exhibit will be a 1942 Martin Herringbone; a 1938 Gibson Advance jumbo; and a 1959 Gibson Les Paul sunburst, considered by many to be the “holy grail” of electrics, each worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Gill adds, “The instruments are as much a part of our history as the people who played them. Maybe even more so.

“If you think about it, when you casually start listening to favorite songs that you love, nine times out of 10, you will know what it is by the instrument played before the singer sings.

“These instruments have defined so much of our legacy musically.”

Developed as a passion project by museum president Johnny Smith, a professional musician, along with curator and CEO David Davidson, Songbirds was created to showcase this exceptional collection of guitars that had never been on display.

Smith explains, “We are thrilled to have Vince as the museum’s ambassador, as he truly appreciates the instruments. He is such a versatile musician and a great storyteller and you can tell that the guitars evoke some real emotion with him.”

Chattanooga was chosen for the museum because of its location near multiple metropolitan areas and affordable operating costs, boosted by the tenacity of Smith and other locals.

Smith adds, “I want to be a cultivator for the local music scene. In Chattanooga, we are always looking for a place where the local musicians can have opportunities. We have such great local talent here.”

Davidson says: “Songbirds features exceptional quality guitars that play well, sound well and have a place in history.

“All the guitars were chosen for not one of those reasons — but all of those reasons.”

He continues, “Songbirds is an art, history and cultural museum blended together.”

Housed in a renovated space that most recently held a train museum, Songbirds has soaring ceilings, charred-wood walls, exposed brick and steel.

Decidedly family-friendly, it will include guitar lessons, performances and the chance to learn the human stories behind the guitars.

Throughout the space, LED video screens, animation and artifacts show additional information about the displays.

Gill has his eyes on the future: “I think if we have the opportunity to reach the young people and get them inspired to understand and fall in love with some of these great old instruments, it will perpetuate the history of all these instruments, and they will go on to live for another 100 years — and be respected and be revered.”

IF YOU GO

Address: 35 Station Street, Chattanooga, TN, 37408

Contact: 423 531-2473 (BIRD); info@songbirdsguitars.com; songbirdsguitars.com

Admission prices to main exhibits:

• Adults: $18.95
• Children (ages 5-12): $11.95
• Children ages 4 and younger are free with purchase of adult admission
• Students (over 13), Seniors (over 65), Military (with ID): $15.95
• Family 4-Pack (two adults and two children up to 18 years old): $49.95

All Access Tour: Songbirds museum offers a guided All Access Tourthat includes a VIP visit to the “Green Room” and “Vault” that houses extremely rare guitars. Tickets are limited and advance booking is recommended. General admission is included in the All Access Tour price. Visitors should allow for an additional hour if choosing this tour. For security purposes, children ages 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult and children under 12 are not permitted.

• All Access Tour individual (18 and older): $38.95
• Family 4-Pack All Access Tour (two adults and two children 12-17): $99

Songbirds also offers memberships and can accommodate groups.

Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

All Access Tour Times: 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Closed : Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

The post Songbirds: New Museum Strikes Chord for Guitar Lovers appeared first on Marla Cimini.

In Northern California, courtyards, cottages and creative arts combine to form Carmel-by-the-Sea’s subtle and elegant charm. Drawing visitors from across the world, this town of one square mile overflows with art and natural beauty. These elements intertwine with distinctive architecture, including homes that appear to be plucked from a fairytale and placed into this delightful beach town.

Located on the Monterey Peninsula, about 120 miles south of San Francisco, Carmel-by-the-Sea is easy to explore on foot. Its downtown area is lined with galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Behind buildings, more than 40 narrow, hidden passageways twist and turn, opening onto courtyards often adorned with outdoor sculpture or artwork. The courtyards were constructed in the 1920s, around the time when Hugh Comstock’s Dollhouse Tudor houses and shops were built. The small- town ambience is palpable; there are no addresses or parking meters. Aside from Carmel’s tiny downtown, sidewalks are nonexistent. 

And seemingly always, the Pacific Ocean is steps away. For a breezy sea stroll, simply walk toward the beach, which is dog friendly (along with many hotels, restaurants and other establishments). The town’s streets slope downward to the Scenic Bluff Path that stretches from tony Pebble Beach to Point Lobos, offering glorious views overlooking the waves, gardens and cypress trees along the way. 

Famous in recent years for its former mayor, Clint Eastwood, who still resides in town, Carmel-by-the-Sea transports visitors to an earlier era with its history of attracting spirited, ambitious talents. After the massive 1906 earthquake destroyed much of San Francisco, many artists, writers and musicians fled to Carmel and established a thriving colony. At the time, the city’s Arts and Crafts Club was in its infancy and welcomed the creative community with open arms and budget-friendly rents. Among the renowned writers who called Carmel home were Sinclair Lewis, Mary Austin and Upton Sinclair, and artists such as Percy Gray, Anne Bremer and William Ritschel found inspiration along Carmel’s shores.

This Bohemian haven was incorporated on October 31, 1916, and celebrates its centennial anniversary this year with special events. Take, for instance, the citywide parade (planned by the organizers of the Rose Bowl parade) and celebratory lunch on October 29. There’s also music, theater, dance, art and culinary events planned through December.

With approximately 100 galleries situated within the town’s borders, both avid collectors and casual visitors find Carmel a dreamy art destination. For enthusiasts, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a rare treat: to observe and interact with artists while they work in their studios. Notable artists include award-winning sculptor Steven Whyte of his namesake gallery; as well as Mary Titus of Titus Contemporary Gallery and Galerie Plein Aire’s husband-and-wife team, Jeff Smith and Cyndra Bradford. These artists open their studios to the public and are often found behind the easel or in the midst of sculpting a new masterpiece. Other standout galleries include Trotter for early California art; Cassandria Blackmore for contemporary glass works; and Gallery Sur, which showcases sculpture and photography. A trusted way to make the most of gallery visits is through Carmel Art Tours, led by local expert Rohana LoSchiavo, who offers custom walks based on her 25 years in the fine art world. 

While admiring the artwork in Carmel, it’s impossible not to be inspired by the diverse architecture as well, which ranges from shingled bungalows to modern designs. Over the years, renowned architects have left their mark here, including Frank Lloyd Wright, Charles Sumner Greene, Hugh Gutterson and others. At the corner of Lincoln Street and 6th Avenue sits the first house built by architect M.J. Murphy in 1902. Known as the “First Murphy House,” today it’s home to the Carmel Heritage Society Welcome Center. 

For more extensive art experiences, the Carmel Art Association, the second-oldest cooperative in the U.S., features multiple rooms with exhibits from numerous local and regional artists. For those short on time, the stunning entry garden is certainly worth a peek. Nearby, the Center for Photographic Art is a nonprofit that advances the Central Coast’s photographic arts through education and exhibition. It evolved from the renowned Friends of Photography established in 1967 by Ansel Adams and other photographic luminaries. Today, the organization holds installations and events throughout the year. Another major attraction is the historic Carmel Mission Basilica, with its museums and galleries. For visitors with an extra day to explore, the Monterey Museum of Art, located outside of town, features works by contemporary regional artists along with legendary talents. 

After combing through galleries, it’s delightful to relax and enjoy the culinary scene. Anton & Michel is a popular modern European restaurant, while Vesuvio offers Southern Italian specialties with views from a lively rooftop patio. Located in the landmark Cypress Inn, Terry’s Lounge features an outdoor courtyard, craft cocktails and an extensive menu, including specialties such as truffle ravioli and chicken piccata. 

Spending the night in Carmel offers more opportunities to admire the area’s history and architecture. The elegant L’Auberge Carmel is a 20-room Mediterranean-style inn with a top-rated restaurant, Aubergine. Nearby, the Cypress Inn is a landmark hotel built in 1929 and co-owned by legendary actress Doris Day. The luxurious Carmel Country Inn is a bed-and-breakfast-style retreat in the center of town. 

Much like its hidden courtyards, Carmel-by-the-Sea reveals itself to visitors in subtle ways, rewarding travelers with lingering aesthetic treasures. From the hypnotic waves lapping the shoreline, to an artist quietly working in a studio, to the understated design of a beachfront cottage, the town appeals to artists of all kinds and remains an artistic oasis today.

READ MORE


READ THE PDF

The post Wanderings: Carmel-By-The-Sea, California appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Lisbon, Portugal, offers an array of visual inspiration for art and design enthusiasts, ranging from centuries-old sculptures and paintings to modern street art that revitalizes the community with splashes of color. Travelers to this seaside city will most likely find themselves meandering along intricately pattered sidewalks and admiring the azulejos (distinctively detailed ceramic-painted tiles) adorning the city’s architecture.

Eat

Food lovers adore award-winning chef Jose Avillez’s stunning and stylish Belcanto, the molecular gastronomy restaurant that has two Michelin stars. Located in the town’s revitalized Chiado district, Belcanto’s dining room has been recently refurbished, and its menu reflects the chef’s artistic cuisine. Creative standouts include: Dip in the Sea (sea bass, mussels and razor clams) and the Mandarin dessert (a frozen citrus dessert with light, flavorful foam) to finish off the meal. Fans of Avillez also make it a point to visit his four other lively and notable eateries just steps away. Each has its own personality, decor and offerings: Cafe Lisboa is situated on Sao Carlos Square, Mini Bar spotlights innovative cocktails and snacks, Cantinho do Avillez blends traditional and modern cuisine and the casual Pizzaria Lisboa offers a friendly, yet eclectic, ambiance.

www.joseavillez.pt

Sleep
The iconic Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is home to one of Portugal’s largest private contemporary art collections, displayed throughout the entire property. Overlooking the city, the majestic hotel features approximately 60 pieces of artwork specifically commissioned for the hotel’s opening in 1959. Guests are invited to explore the collection through a free iPad app that provides a historical and cultural tour showcasing statues and paintings by famous Portuguese contemporary artists such as Pedro Leitao, Estrela Faria and Querubim Lapa. Art aficionados consider a collection highlight to be tapestries by Jose de Almada Negreiros.

www.fourseasons.com/lisbon

Play
Tooling around sunny Lisbon in a 1940s-era motorcycle sidecar not only makes for a memorable afternoon, but it offers a unique vantage point from which visitors can learn about this picturesque city and its diverse artwork. The Sidecar Touring Company launched an art excursion that focuses on the vibrant street art and multihued murals that have appeared across the city in recent years. Company founder (and frequent driver), Joao Soares created Sidecar Touring more than 10 years ago to share his own local perspective of the city. The company also offers food excursions and scenic jaunts to the beach. Drivers can accommodate two passengers per vehicle, and trips for groups can be arranged.

www.sidecartouring.co.pt

The post A Guide to Lisbon for Art and Design Lovers appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Offering an artistic odyssey, the city of Portland, Oregon, blends a range of art and architectural styles, dating from thousands of years ago with the tribes of the Pacific Northwest to more contemporary offerings that have inspired the slogan “Keep Portland Weird.” A diverse destination, the city of roughly 600,000 people attracts a melting pot of individuals with varied interests and earnest passions. 

You’d be hard-pressed to find another American destination with such a lengthy list of monikers: Rip City; Little Beirut; People’s Republic of Portland; Bridgetown; Puddletown; Stumptown; P-Town; PDX; and City of Roses. Art aficionados might add another nickname to the roster, perhaps “City of Art and Ambition” or “City of Sculpture” could define the town’s dynamic community. After all, Mark Rothko, the Russian-born Abstract Expressionist painter, lived here. And seemingly dozens of institutions provide art education, from the Art Institute of Portland to the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts to a recording arts school. 

The Willamette River divides Portland across its east and west shores, and Burnside Street splits the city north and south, respectively. Artful treasures are found throughout each of Portland’s neighborhoods, from elite galleries to DIY artisan festivals and splashes of public art. 

The city’s mild climate is best from June through September. But, rain or shine, wandering through Portland is delightful. As a pedestrian-friendly city, consider touring by bicycle on more than 300 miles of paths or travel via public transportation on the light rail or streetcar systems. 

In Portland, art lovers have endless opportunities to immerse themselves in notable, prestigious collections while still getting acquainted with smaller galleries featuring the works of emerging artists. An ideal place to begin is The Portland Art Museum. Designed by Pietro Belluschi, it is the oldest museum on the West Coast, housing more than 40,000 works in its collection, including Native American, European and contemporary offerings. This summer, the museum will host an exhibit exploring the sculptures and drawings of Allied Works Architecture, along with an exhibition of Native American fashion spanning more than 50 years. 

Located nearby, architecture buffs can admire a behind-the-scenes look at the famed 1920s Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Designed by Rapp and Rapp, the Italian Renaissance venue will host a range of summer performances from Portland’s symphonic choir to NPR’s “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me” news-quiz program to comedy legends Steve Martin and Martin Short, as well as Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. 

A short drive away is the sustainable Gerding Theater at the Armory. Situated in the Pearl District, it’s the country’s first LEED-Platinum renovation of a performance hall. This summer, catch Tennessee Williams’ iconic Pulitzer Prize-winning play “A Streetcar Named Desire,” as performed by Portland Center Stage, the city’s leading professional theater. 

The renovation of this 1891 theater also helped revitalize Portland’s Pearl District, noted for an art scene that shines its own spotlight on thought-provoking paintings, sculpture and multimedia pieces from local and international artists. It’s easy to spend an afternoon at PDX Contemporary Art, which features an array of exhibits, including abstract works from famed Oregon artist James Lavadour of the Umatilla Tribe. Nearby, the Froelick Gallery invites guests to view pieces from Native American artist Rick Bartow, whose sculptures greet visitors at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. Other standout galleries include the contemporary Elizabeth Leach Gallery; Blue Sky, which specializes in photography; and Upfor, with an emphasis on digital media.

Demonstrating the city’s enthusiasm for creativity are its many art walks. First Thursday has taken place each month since 1986. On the first Thursday of each month, downtown and Pearl District galleries and businesses, including the Pacific Northwest College of Art, debut new exhibitions, stay open late and throw a soirée. Taking place on the last Thursday of each month is Alberta Street’s art walk Last Thursday, offering openings at spaces such as Guardino Gallery and setting the scene for a boisterous street fair that attracts independent artists and performers. Held year-round, the event is busiest during the summer, when the street is closed to traffic. Sandwiched between both, First Friday is hosted by central eastside galleries, studios and alternative art spaces each month. ADX, a shared workshop for everything from metal to textiles, is a fine place to begin.

While hopping from art district to art district, don’t forget to stop and take in the public works dotting the city. Portland’s devotion to art is both overt and subtle, and visitors can find information about monuments from official sources such as the Regional Arts & Culture Council. While strolling downtown, it’s difficult to miss the imposing 36-foot Portlandia sculpture, the second-largest hammered copper statue in the United States (just behind the Statue of Liberty). It’s worth pausing to gaze skyward at its splendor. 

Close by, the city’s first public art installation is the lovely Versailles-inspired Skidmore Fountain, designed in 1888 by sculptor Olin Levi Warner. And downtown you can find the ubiquitous Benson Bubbler bronze drinking fountains. More than 50 of these charming gems are situated around downtown, with the original 1970s fountain at SW 5th and Washington streets.

Not surprisingly, and perhaps inspired by Mount Hood, nature also displays her palette. Flower gardens are a true art form in Portland. At the edge of downtown sits a fragrant oasis, the country’s oldest International Rose Test Garden. Meandering through the rows of brilliantly hued blossoms — interspersed with unexpected artwork — is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. The adjacent Japanese Garden offers more than 5 acres of rustic Zen-inspired pathways accented by statues, artifacts and secluded spots for meditation. The garden recently announced a major expansion to be designed by prominent Japanese architect Kengo Kuma.

The art of eating is not to be overlooked in P-Town either. Portland’s vibrant restaurants and bars offer inventive local flavors and creative choices — from food carts to stylish bistros. A hotspot for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Tasty n Alder is a fun urban eatery with a delectable farm-to-table menu and fresh craft cocktails. OX, a top restaurant in town, features the culinary virtuosity of chefs Greg Denton and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton and their Argentine-inspired delights. In the Mount Tabor neighborhood, James Beard-nominated chef Katy Millard serves up seasonal fare at tiny Coquine, attracting guests from far and wide to sample her inventive spin on French cuisine. Downtown, a historic inn-turned-restaurant, Old Town Pizza & Brewing, offers standard pizza-and-beer fare with a spooky twist. Portions of the city’s infamous Shanghai tunnels remain in the cellar, and some say ghosts remain, too. Ask nicely and you may be treated to a tour at its downtown location. For dessert, those who crave creatively sweet fusions will head to Salt & Straw, an ice cream shop with flavor combinations including pear and blue cheese, and strawberry honey balsamic with black pepper. 

Continue on the art-inspired path by choosing accommodations in one of Portland’s many hip hotels. The boutique Society Hotel was built in 1881 as a Mariners Building and completely renovated in 2013. Today, the property offers several rooms, including budget-friendly “bunk” style dormitory rooms. The Hotel Vintage Portland provides a sense of comfort and community, featuring local modern artwork and cool design elements throughout public spaces and guest rooms. In the heart of downtown, The Nines Hotel boasts an art collection curated by Paige Powell, a native Oregonian and contemporary of Andy Warhol. Situated atop a historic building, the swanky hotel also features a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city’s bustling urban landscape.

Near the Columbia and Willamette rivers, Oregon’s largest city waits in the shadow of Mount Hood, inspiring art escapes that extend to every facet of expression.

READ MORE


READ THE PDF

The post Wanderings: Art Escapes in Portland, Oregon appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Originally published in New Jersey Monthly

Growing up in Atlantic City in the 1960s, Mike Bell had a front-row seat for the town’s lively cavalcade of entertainment. The splashy fun gave Bell a passion for brilliant colors and surprising imagery that today shows up in his art.

“Some of my fondest memories are the times I spent hanging out on the Boardwalk and going to concerts and shows with my three brothers,” says Bell. “My love for graphics and typography was inspired by the Steel Pier and its crazy, eye-catching, carnival sideshow signage.”

About five years ago, Bell lost his job as an art director and turned his focus to painting. His vibrant canvases—some as large as 4 feet by 4 feet—depict movie icons, comic-strip heroes and even monsters, often sipping brightly hued cocktails.

Innovation is a hallmark of Bell’s work. Shortly after becoming a full-time artist, he started making intricate black-and-white sketches on the inside covers of matchbooks. He incorporates the matchsticks into the pieces, adding a three-dimensional element. These unique matchbook works struck a chord; 40 are currently on tour with the Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Museum. His most popular matchbook images are rock stars and celebrities, including the Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Marilyn Monroe and Hillary Clinton.

Bell, 55, lives in Northfield with his wife, Amy, and their children. His artwork is shown in galleries across the world. Bell’s paintings, acrylic on canvas, can sell for as much as $4,000. His matchbook-art pieces go for $115. Locally, his work will be on display this summer at the Chora Leone Gallery in Somers Point; his matchbook series can be seen at the Holtzman Gallery at the Claridge in Atlantic City. He also puts his surrealist spin on cigar boxes that are available at 10th Avenue Burrito Company in Belmar.

Bell believes that fresh ideas are essential for today’s artists. “Anyone holding a smartphone can view hundreds of images,” says Bell. “To catch someone’s eye and be remembered is a challenge. A beautiful painting may intrigue someone, but a beautiful painting combined with an innovative idea may stop them in their tracks.”

The post Inspiration Strikes appeared first on Marla Cimini.

If a vivid imagination is a prerequisite for transforming a dilapidated, neglected property into a brilliantly revitalized destination, then Maya Mallick, owner of the Culver Hotel, possesses an abundance of artistic moxie.

Built by businessman Harry Culver and opened in 1924, the hotel is situated in the heart of its namesake city, located halfway between the Pacific Ocean and downtown Los Angeles. Heralded as a “skyscraper” at the time, the six-floor flatiron structure was designed by local architecture firm Curlett and Beelman in a Renaissance Revival style.

Considered a visionary during the 1920s, Culver promoted his mantra “All roads lead to Culver City,” and the expression rings true again today. The Los Angeles neighborhood is booming with new restaurants, art galleries and shops, and in the middle of this urban rejuvenation sits the Culver Hotel.

As a National Historic Landmark, the hotel is steeped in Hollywood history. It was once owned by legendary actor Charlie Chaplin and later by Western movie icon John Wayne.

The Culver was also home to the cast of the Munchkins during the filming of the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz.” Other movie icons lived at the property, including Clark Gable, Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford. Over the years, however, the Culver Hotel fell into disrepair. Shabby and abandoned, it was boarded up in the 1980s and underwent only a partial and short-lived renovation during the 1990s.

Mallick, who purchased the property in 2007, immediately saw the hotel’s bright future. “What truly inspired me was that the Culver Hotel, even in its neglected state, had such a strong presence and the potential to become so much more than just a hotel,” she says. “I fell in love with the space and wanted to be the one to make it happen. I saw it as a unique opportunity to combine all the things I loved — art, design, food, music and travel — with my entrepreneurial background [to make] one single neat little package. It was thrilling.” Enchanted with the property’s character, Mallick decided to forgo an architect and personally handle the details. Working with her sister, Angela, they reimagined the hotel, while maintaining the building’s integrity. The $4-million project took about six years to complete, and the Culver reopened in 2012 as a dashing destination.

The revived hotel breathes with new life, yet invites guests to take a step back in time. All 46 of the sunlit guestrooms, with varying layouts and sizes, are replete with 1920s-inspired bathrooms and updated wood and tile floors. The hotel’s décor is sophisticated and eclectic, with handpicked vintage pieces, custom furniture and cabinetry, and design elements that provide surprising, whimsical touches. Even the hotel’s 150 windows were replaced with handmade panes that meet historical specifications. “There is an instinctive European flavor in the way I see hospitality,” Mallick says. “I have a longstanding love affair with French culture — it’s romantic, aesthetic, musical, historic and artisan; it puts the gourmet in everything.” Mallick added an artsy speakeasy-style bar on the mezzanine level, overlooking the posh dining room with its original black-and-white marble checkerboard floor. Above the dinning room, a multitude of shimmering crystal chandeliers hang at varied heights. Modern meeting and event spaces were built nearby on the second floor and incorporate artistic touches, including detailed crown molding. In addition to structural changes and cosmetic redesign, the electrical and plumbing systems underwent a complete overhaul, including the replacement of the elevator.

The grand lobby, with soaring 20-foot-high ceilings and an inviting fireplace, features several stained and painted columns surrounded by an array of wooden tables and jewel-hued couches and cushions. The lobby also serves as a second restaurant and bar, with an adjacent patio garden offering casual fare for al fresco dining throughout the day. Featuring live jazz music at night, the refreshed property has regained its luster, attracting an energetic crowd of locals and guests. Today, with fresh bouquets of flowers placed throughout the public spaces and guestrooms, the hotel once again embodies the soul of founder Harry Culver.

Revitalized by a woman who shared his vision for vibrancy, the Culver Hotel sparkles with classic Hollywood glamour and remains a true icon.

YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY…

Facebook


Twitter


Linkedin


Instagram


Pinterest

The post Western Landmark: The Culver Hotel appeared first on Marla Cimini.