Sister in Second-hand Sequins

Catching up with Couture etc...

2011-07-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

Eeek! I'm terrible, horrible, no good, all around bad blogger lass! I have been so very busy since my last post and really have no good excuse at the ready to offer you my dear reader. I have all kinds of new and exciting things to share in the upcoming weeks ( including a tiny trip, a move to new quarters, and an upcoming art show!).With all that in mind I shall just go ahead and share some of my favorite pieces from the new Fall 2011 Couture which has just come out this week.

Gaultier Fall 2011 Couture

furred

trenched

draped

Chanel Fall 2011 Couture

collared

dotted

belted

Givenchy Fall 2011 Couture

fragile

laced

light

Valentino Fall 2011 Couture

crushed

velvet

sheers

Catalogues and bits and bobbins

2011-06-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Reader,

I started a post more than a while back about my solo show, I Must Be Brave You Must Behave, at U.turn in October 2010, but apparently never finished it. Oh dear,well better late than never I guess. U.turn's final exhibit is up this month and as such I thought I should probably finally get around to posting this. The catalogue for my show is now available for purchase over at U.turn's Lulu store. Also available in the store are all the catalogues we have made to accompany our shows thus far. It is quite exciting to be able to have such a nice physical documentation of such wonderful work. You can read more about this project here. The five of us involved in U.turn are currently working on an extensive little book to accompany this final show, I must say so far we are quite proud of what what it is shaping up to be. Stay tuned for more on that.

Designing this little book was quite fun, and I couldn't have done it without help from various peoples (you know who you are!). Local Poet Dana Ward wrote a wonderful essay to accompany my images, and I couldn't be more pleased with how everything turned out.

Here's a little preview of some of the spreads in the catalogue!

Spring Preview...

2011-02-21T06:58:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

Saturday night was the night of our big fundraising event at U.turn. It went off splendidly, I must report. Thank you to everyone who made it out! Lots of work on the part of everyone in the collective paid off and we are so grateful for the support of the Cincinnati art community.

That being said along with all the busyness of this past week I managed to slip away with my friend Heather and have some silly fun at Ault Park. The weather this past week was a little gift and a preview of what's to come (hopefully soon). We donned our apparel and took to the park with energy bursting. It was fun for me to have a new model to photograph! The temperature was around 60 or so and a soft breeze accompanied the afternoon.We both looks a bit wistful and melancholic in the images, but twas fun all the same.

After our frolic (see more pictures in my flickr) we were planning on getting some noms at the Comet, but were quite distracted by the sale sign outside Nvison. I had always meant to wander in there, and am glad I finally did. I have to go back...that is all.

I managed to snap a few images of the awesome retro lamps in the downstairs portion of the store (which was just bursting with gorgeous formal wear). As I said I have to go back soon!

Double Shameless.

2011-02-14T12:36:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

I have been a very bad blogger. The winter makes me sluggish and lazy. I promise to soon amend my errant ways. Until then I wanted to share some things that have been taking up my precious times. Some of you may know I help run an independent art space in Cincinnati, and have since October 2009. The five of us in the collective have worked so hard this past year and a half, we would like to invite you to join us for an evening of beauty, art, poetry, music, and epicurean delights!

Literati Glitterati: A U·turn Fundraiser

$10 suggested donation at the door

Cincinnati, OH—In little more than a year and a half of consistent monthly programming, U·turn Art Space is proud to have exhibited sixty artists from our region and from around the world. Now we are asking for your help. But don’t worry; we put the ‘fun’ in fundraiser. On the evening of the 19th, there will be books, buffets and beauty. Along with a delic...ious homemade meal, we will be offering beer for sale, live poetry readings and intermissions filled with a playlist designed especially for the event.

The evening will double as a book release night. Here are a few of the exciting releases planned:

-Brighton Approach Gold Edition- A special edition of Brighton Approach, U·turn’s art and literature periodical, will be available for sale. A number of the writers included in the book will be reading their work throughout the evening, including Keith Banner, Jennifer Glaser, Michael Hennessey, Meg Prichard, Nick Story and Dana Ward. These books have been printed full color, with art and writing contributions from Cincinnati and all across the country. As a Gold Edition, the book has been themed around alchemy, the pursuit of transforming the mundane into something precious. As an alternative arts space, we readily identify with such a goal.

-The U·turn Folios- The gallery has created four sets of full color digital prints, featuring work by the collective, as well as over twenty other artists that have exhibited with the space since October 2009. Three small folios have been curated and each will be available for $15. A larger folio that includes all of the prints from the smaller collections will available at a discounted price. All folios will include a certificate of authenticity from the gallery. These will be printed in a limited run for the event.

-Exhibition Catalogues- Since the beginning of 2010, the gallery has been designing print-to-order catalogues for every exhibition. A full run of these books will be unveiled, with information about how to order them from our online store (if you’d like to preview some of these books, visit the our Lulu storefront. This run of catalogues include essays and poems by Christopher Backs, Keith Banner, Shawnee Barton, Craig Damrauer, Micah Freeman, Hollis Hammonds, Isaac Hand, Justine Ludwig, Matt Morris, Patricia Murphy, Zachary Rawe, Eric Ruschman and Dana Ward.

A little about the cost of running the space:

U·turn is comprised of five members, all working artists with day jobs. The gallery takes no commission off of the sale of artwork in the space, wishing instead to pass all profits back to the artists. So far, we have financed the space with our own incomes.

It costs an estimated $585 a month to operate the gallery. This includes rent and energy as well as costs for producing an exhibition, such as wall paint, lights, reception refreshments, postcards and the cost to ship work back to artists. For a professional art gallery, this is amazingly economical. In the winter, our heating bills are much higher. We hope that this fundraiser will help us offset these expenses and make our spring exhibitions easier to produce.

This event coincides with our remarkable current exhibition, Marcia Hafif: Glaze Paintings. The renowned Hafif has designed a spacious installation of 8 small monochrome paintings that activate the entire room.

Steve Rosen reviewed this exhibition recently in CityBeat.

**SIDE NOTE**

Our friends at the alternative arts space CS13 will be presenting a 24-hour long exhibition called The Today Show that begins at 5 pm on Friday, February 18th and culminates in a reception on the evening of Saturday, February 19th, from 5-7 pm. A number of the artists included in their exhibition have shown or will be showing at U·turn in the coming months. The artists will mount an exhibition in which all of the work is conceived, created, installed, documented, written about and presented to the public in a 24 hour period. CS13 is located at 1420 Main Street in Over-the-Rhine. Make it an evening all about alternative spaces in the city: start at CS13 at 5 pm and then join us for dinner and a poem or two at 7 pm.

Handmade Nation + Cincinnati shout out

2010-12-14T11:30:00.000-08:00

Last Monday I finally got to see the documentary Handmade Nation! The director of the doc, Faythe Levine was on hand at the CAC for a Q&A with local Fabricate lovely Chris Salley directly following the screening.

After reading about this film for so long on various blogs it was so incredibly rewarding and inspiring to finally see it for myself. I especially needed the little kick in the pants it provided me creativly.

Apparently the turn out for the evening was one of the largest lecture turnouts the CAC has had. It was really great to feel part of a larger community or movement, so much love in the room!

If all that lovlieness weren't enough I saw a post by Faythe recounting her visit to Cincinnati. She said so many wonderful things about the Queen City it makes me blush and feel proud of our little Midwestern hamlet!

Green house red dress

2010-12-13T12:53:00.000-08:00

Goodness me I have been away for ever so long. After my show in October I felt the need to take a long break from various outlets of creativity, to recharge and come back swinging.

I'm just about finished with my Christmas gift prep and hopefully the holiday will be fun-filled and lovely. I haven't started the watching of holiday films yet, but soon...very soon.

Often I find myself working a short shift on Wednesday mornings, this leaves the rest of my day pretty open to various pursuits. This past Wednesday my sister Melissa happend to be off school in the afternoon so we got gussied and headed to one of my favorite locals, the Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park. This greenhouse nestled in the park is especially nice to visit in the cold months as it is warm and steamy inside being a hot house and all. For those brave souls intent on being outside the conservatory has a live (the animals at least) nativity. Growing up my family would visit the sheep and other barnyard critters every Christmas, a tradition which included yelling "hey ewe!" at the sheep (the Donnermeyers are a punny bunch).

We strolled about and acted silly, taking photos and whatnot. I styled Melissa using some pieces from my own wardrobe plus some great little booties she had. I chose to wear a recent etsy find from Tulip Tree Vintage and my amber ankle boots. Luckily it was a gorgeous sunny day and the photos turned out really nice. A few years ago I did a photoshoot at this location with my friend Lindsey and got really great results as well. Funny those images were also shot in the winter, I used slide film and got beautiful subtle changes in the light.

This last image is from that previous body of work I mentioned. I'm going to have to look for the rest of the images from this time. Gosh I love film, it's just glows.

New things...

2010-10-18T05:43:00.000-07:00

So I decided to start a tumblr...I wanted to have a place to store the images {etc} and bits of text I come across which float up and stick in my mind. I will still be maintaining this here blog primarily for writing essays and such other literary pursuits with the occasional silly girlie fashion diatribes.

Also I wanted to share a link to a lovely review that was written about my show which is currently up at U.turn. I must say it certainly gives great insight.

I love the company of wolves...

2010-10-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

In doing research leading up to current body of work I learned about a horror film called A Company of Wolves. The premise is more or less a reinterpretation of Little Red Riding Hood {sort of }. The film was made in 1984 and could thus be put in the same category as say The Princess Bride, and or the Indiana Jones films {due mainly to the special effects that were used}. The cast features Angela Lansbury and Stephen Rea {very youngish}along with others. The title of the movie actually comes from a short story by Angela Carter. The story appears in her lauded collection of short stories, The Bloody Chamber, that reimagined fairytales with dark feminist spins. It turns out Carter actually helped write the script for the film. I found this interview with the author to be quite interesting.

Upon viewing the movie I decided there were only a few portions I was drawn to. I embedded the key scenes below.

I wonder if Sophia Coppola has seen this...or for that matter Amy Cutler? The special effects are wonderfully dated, I sort of like that though adds to the storybook sense.

The actor portraying the wolf reminds me a bit of Tom Cruise as Lestat in Interview With the Vampire...just a bit.

Spring 2011

2010-10-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

I fail at keeping up with the Spring 2011 shows, but here is a glimpse of Chanel's show.

Simon & Garfunkel = Autumn

2010-10-15T10:50:00.000-07:00

Long time no see see..

2010-10-06T06:32:00.000-07:00

And I'm back...

Viktor & Rolf Spring 2011 RTW

Where I am. Where I'll be...

2010-09-17T06:37:00.000-07:00

I have been neglectful of this here blog and I'm sorry for it. I have good reason though I assure you, allow me to explain.

As one of the members of U.turn Art Space I am having a solo show of my work which opens on Saturday October 2. This is pretty much the explanation. I've been in the thick of working for a while now and still have a ways to go before the opening. I have also been working (my day jobs) pretty much everyday. It's a really yucky catch 22: If I don't work and make monies I can't make artwork, but because I work I am exhausted when I get to the studio...

I basically just wanted to pop in and make mention of the show and ensure people that I am still alive..

I Must Be Brave You Must Behave:
Recent Work by Molly Donnermeyer

October 2^nd—30^th, 2010
Opening reception: Saturday, October 2^nd, 7:00 – 10:00 pm
Poetry reading featuring Matt Hart, with selections from his new book Wolf Face:
Saturday, October 16^th, starting at 7 pm

Cincinnati, OH—U · turn is pleased to present I Must Be Brave You Must Behave, a solo exhibition of the collective’s own Molly Donnermeyer. At the outset of U · turn Art Space, now in its second year, the five artists who operate the gallery chose to include exhibitions of their own art in the schedule, as an opportunity to explore their intimate relationships with the space they maintain. Donnermeyer has done this with installations of furniture and ritualistic collections of household clutter, accompanied by works on paper and photographs.

In this new body of work, Donnermeyer produces haunting, mocking, and sometimes tender explorations, which call to mind classic tales and nursery rhymes interlaced with glimmers of personal narrative. Like Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber—a seminal collection of short stories from 1979 that reimagined fairytales with dark feminist spins—these artworks take elements from such narratives, allowing the artist’s personal life and her incisive takes on contemporary culture to reset the shape of the stories and form them anew.

As they have always been though, Donnermeyer’s take on fairytales are metaphors. Just as these stories are translated and shaped by new contexts, the artist asserts that our belongings and even our conceptions of self are reinterpreted when we move from place to place and nurse longings for escape. As if preparing for flight, the gallery is strewn with pieces of furniture, folded clothing, tangles of hair, piles of soil, and fragile keepsakes in want of wrapping.

These effigy-like installation elements are punctuated by the presence of works on paper that function as delicate inventories, cataloging objects that still need to be packed. In contrast with the quiet emptiness these previous modes of working provide, Donnermeyer also makes photographic images of herself reacting to her physical surroundings in order to examine the discordant feeling of feral unrest which comes with a sense of displacement in one’s own home.

Molly Donnermeyer is a graduate of the Art Academy of Cincinnati, holding a BFA in Fine Arts, with an emphasis in photography. She has participated in exhibitions at local venues such as ArtWorks Gallery, Chidlaw Gallery, CS13, Rohs Street Café, semantics gallery, Creative, InkTank, and the Campbell County Public Library. She is a founding member of the art venue U · turn Art Space in Brighton. As well as mounting gallery exhibitions, Donnermeyer has also been published as a photojournalist in publications such as The Messenger and Sparklezilla. Along with Patricia Murphy she is a contributing editor for Brighton Approach, U · turn’s literary and arts zine. Donnermeyer also keeps a personal blog through which she explores her interests in art, fashion, music, and the likes of Lady GaGa, Alfred Hitchcock and other cultural deviants. I Must Be Brave You Must Behave is Donnermeyer’s second solo exhibition.

Cobwebs & Hand Held Tales

2010-08-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

I spent some much needed time in my studio yesterday, and made a few little discoveries. One welcome and one not so much.

Clearly it had been too long since I was there for it appears a spider has taken up residence in one of my boxes of books. Thick cobwebs had been woven around the folds of the cardboard flaps of a box marked "Religious Books." I am not fond of spiders and so am a bit anxious about evicting this little hanger on. In one frenzied instant I considered using one of my white and gold bibles to crush the thing and then use the resulting mess as an art piece, but the moment passed. I did however move the box to another side of the studio. It had been on one of my work tables, but I reluctantly yanked the box off causing a loud crash and then kicked it away (I was afraid the buggy would jump out and get me).

The other discovery was this petite book of fairy tales. This particular volume is one I've had since I was small (I think technically it belongs to one of my parents). I had a fascination with little books that would fit in my hands and had a habit of hoarding them in hideaways. I probably watched Indiana Jones one too many times, for I imagined there were secrets and spells within these pages. I also had a habit of scribbling furiously on the pages of some of these (luckily I did not do that in this instance). I remember being both attracted to and disturbed by the images as a child.

This little collection, Six Fairytales, was put together and illustrated by David Hockney in 1970. In total there are 39 etchings throughout the book to accompany the text which was translated from Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm's original German tales.

No matter how many times I check out the collected works of the Brothers Grimm I manage to discover a new (to me) story each time I do so, and each is darker and richer than the last. That is one of the reasons I dearly love folk and fairy tales, there is an almost endless supply of new works to discover.

It's a bit amazing for me to see how my work now is so clearly influenced by these sorts of talismans from my childhood. I've never really thought of David Hockney as having a clear link to my work, but here you go.

Swaps,Sweets, Sweat, and Other Stylish Pursuits

2010-08-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

I mentioned the clothing swap a few time recently, but hadn't posted anything about how it turned out. In a word it was HOT! I mean I knew it may be a tad uncomfortable once you got a number of people in an unairconditioned space, but man alive the powers that be decided that the hottest day of the summer should coincide with our event.

We had a decent turnout and I think both Jessy and I learned a lot about how these types of events generally happen. There was no hair pulling (sadly?) or general fighting over garments, everyone was super sweet and lovely to boot! The music set the mood of a mid summer lazy hazy hangout. Whirly Girl's delish drinks and the crumbly sweet macaroons (which to me tasted like rose petals) brought magic to evening!

I had the pleasure of meeting the darling Paige of Midwest Darling a week previous to the swap, and she stopped by the gallery that evening to share some wears. You can get her take on what went on by clicking on the above link.

Kasmira of the inspiring What I Wore Today and Tamia of The Style Sample each attended and wrote posts about the swap. Thanks Ladies! Sadly I didn't get the opportunity to chat with them as I was continuously busy with welcoming new swappers, but hopefully future events will give me another chance.

All the photos I have included were taken by the talented Rachel Elliott, photographer extraordinaire.

You're a stylish girl...

2010-08-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

Patricia Neal passed away on Sunday, and I was reminded that she to a certain extent steals the show in every scene in which she appears in Breakfast At Tiffany's. Also, gosh does she dress well in this role. She was the original cougar.

The above still is my absolute favorite of her costumes for the film. The high dramatic collar, saucer-like buttons, and the pop of red turban (which I must say certainly creates a context for the recent Gaultier couture collection) is so gorgeous and memorable. I wish I had a better side view of the collar it is truly a thing to behold.

Patricia Neal with Angela Lansbury in 1968

Her clear strong voice was also very memorable and indicative of her acting skills. Aside from her appearing in the films Hud and Breakfast At Tiffany's I knew very little of her life, for example I had no idea she was married to Roald Dahl for 30 years! Also, she was born in Kentucky and raised in Tennessee. I linked the full obituary that appeared in the NYTimes above for more insight into the life of this amazing actress.

GaGa for Gingham {Learning to Sew}

2010-08-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

There is shocking lack of gingham sundresses out in the world. As I mentioned in my previous post I'm planning a small trip to Louisville later this month. The impetus for this trip was the Kentucky State Fair which takes place in Louisville every year in August. The planets have aligned or something because there seems to be several events taking place during the last week of August that I'm just gonna have to take part in. More on the details soon.

When I decided to go to the State Fair (which I've never done before) I envisioned myself eating funnel cake while checking out the blue ribbon livestock or some such idealistic fantasy. Of course I was doing all of this whilst wearing a vintage gingham sundress, which is just slightly too appropriate for a fair and so must be worn. As I mentioned above it seems to be asking too much to find a garment meeting my need, and so...I'm going to make a dress dammit!

This will technically be my first foray into sewing a garment and I'm pretty excited. The pattern I will be using is shown above it is apparently really easy (due to it being a grand total of three pattern pieces!) and thus perfect for the beginner seamstress according to the lovely ladies at Hancock Fabrics. I'll have the awesome guidance of my Mom (one of those Hancock ladies).

I shall of course be sharing my sewing adventure, so check back in. First though I have a question dear readers, what color gingham should I use. I'm leaning towards a smallish black and white check, but there are also the more traditional blue and white (a la Dorothy), and red checkered. Vote in the poll below.

Fantasy Fair Look

2010-08-05T21:15:00.000-07:00

State Fair by mollydonnermeyer featuring Liz Claiborne dresses

Just dreaming and playing around on Polyvore. I'm planning a little getaway to old Louisville later this month to take in some art gazing, classic horror film watching, fair food eatin', and vintage shopping.

What big hair you have + how vintage is new again

2010-07-29T15:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry if you have already read this post, I accidentally published it before it was ready for your eyes...

This is going to seem super obvious, but I feel the need to just state outright how fashion seems to be particularly inspired by vintage looks and silhouettes at the moment. I was talking with a coworker last week about this very topic and felt compelled to get those thoughts out. While paging through the newest issue of Vogue this coworker mentioned what big hair several models seemed to be sporting. I countered that this trend probably has a lot to do with the television show Mad Men, which was recently dubbed a "cultural phenomenon" in an article in the New York Times.

Vogue gets in on the big hair show

I know obvious right? Still I think this merits a few words and some attention. While I do agree that Mad Men is fab and of course has had an impact on the way we dress and on the way designers design, I think it must also be said that this vintage/classic look has been around for a while now. Maybe it is just that now designers are taking note and creating their version of vintage. I love fashion, but it is a bit of a two headed snake that way, continually eating itself and recreating.

For that matter I might even go so far as to say that the current state of the world economy has had a great impact on what we wear. Because of the uncertain times we live in it is almost as if we have gone back to what is safe and familiar in fashion. Safe might be the wrong word to use there, I think timeless might describe what I want to express a bit better. Classic pieces that translate across time and can be found in any thrift store when one has a good eye. The fashion world took notice of what the public was gravitating towards and has given us what we want re imagined for today.

Fall 2010 RTW Marc Jacobs

It does make one curious and begs the question: where does this nostalgia come from? Is it a feminist backlash? I don't think so, some might feel this return to femininity is that constant one step forward two steps back idea that seems to come and go in women's fashion. I personally feel that because we live in a post-feminist world where women (or anyone) can wear anything they want and should. If you wear a "betty" housewife dress it doesn't mean you think women belong at home with the babies, it means what you want it to mean. I like to think of it as a curatorial process when I get dressed in the morning. As a visual person I'm constantly gathering inspiration from various places and then editing the pieces and parts together.

More Marc Jacobs Fall 2010 RTW

Marc Jacobs Fall 2010 RTW

Lately I have been leaning more towards vintage as a way to express myself. While I don't exclusively dress in vintage pieces (even I need a day with jean cut offs and a t shirt every once in a while) I do find that I cannot help but be attracted to the history that is contained within an item of clothing. Recently I helped organize a clothing swap at U.turn and one of the women who donated clothing created the most amazing tags which described a moment in the life of the garment's previous owner, a moment which defined the garment for her. It was wonderful and lovely to get a glimpse into the life the garments had before they came to be at the gallery. I want to give my own clothing a life and a story worth telling, this has always been one of my goals, but I've never put it into words before.

Wearing vintage also has some benefits. For one thing if you go out on the town in a retro ensemble the chances of someone wearing the same thing as you are very slim, therefore you will stand out. Also it is a way of reusing things that already exist and therefore is a way of being kind to the environment. So go on get out there and find your vintage look.

Shifty Eyes & Dresses

2010-07-24T09:24:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while a film really seems to fit snugly into my aesthetic, and The Brothers Bloom is definitely one of those films. Every bit of it tugged at my heart and at my sensibilities. Anytime you can work a Cat Stevens song into a movie I'm probably sold, plus Adrian Brody as a lead character certainly can't hurt. If you haven't seen it the story is basically a caper and a con in which everyone ends up conning everyone else. Hearts are involved as well as explosions provided by a silent stylish sidekick.

The costuming for the film are what I want to focus on though. The way in which everyone is dressed makes it hard to pinpoint the time period, meaning they are wearing classic looks which can translate to any time (maybe not super futuristic). Headgear is prominent among all of the cast and varies a bit. Fedoras, bowlers, knit beanies, fuzzy caps, and floppy hippie hats. Penelope, Rachel Weiz's character, is fond of black tights and shift dress of the mod variety. She mixes it up and wears a threadbare green grandpa sweater over a black dress, I love this look. As far as I am concerned you can't really go wrong pairing a dress with a cardigan. Her character is child-like, quirky and excitable, and the costume choices reflect that.

Her simple, stream lined dressing is complemented and contrasted by the other characters mode of dressing. Most specifically co-smuggler, Bang Bang, dons sophisticated fashionista clothing more akin to menswear than anything else. Most of her ensembles are complimented by perfectly matched pairs of gloves and eyewear. I am attracted to these very different styles of dress. While I love Penelope's mod, ruffled collar look, I have very few shifty dresses, and more often than not am more comfortable with a belt cinched waist. Perhaps I should challenge myself to don the mod...

Americana at the Art Museum

2010-07-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

The Cincinnati Art Museum holds a special place in my heart for several reasons. So when Jessy and I decided to have an afternoon excursion there I was quite excited. The main reason we decided to go on a little visit to the CAM was because they currently have on loan some pieces from the American Sign Museum, an oft overlooked gem in the Queen City. I was lucky enough to learn of its existence when I was in school an we took a field trip there (but that's another post entirely). The other exhibits up along with the lovely neon include works by Charley Harper, a show called Cincinnati collects America, a show of some quite beautiful Walker Evans photographs among other things. All of these works and collections and objects struck me as being extremely Americana in nature. I suppose this makes a kind of sense in July (summer) to present these types of shows, not that they are particularly patriotic, but possess a sort of nostalgia only understood in America (perhaps more specifically in the Midwest).

Charley Harper, Bye Bye Steamer

I've been feeling this nostalgia condition a lot lately. I probably has a bit to do with my current obsession with rewatching Elizabethtown and visiting all these wonderful spots in Cincinnati that have played a part in so many people's memories.

Walker Evans

This Col. Sanders sign is probably one of my absolute favorites. It's probably silly but I've always had a sort of strange relationship to KFC being a Kentucky native. I love it in theory, but actually eating it is a different story. Don't get me wrong I am all about the side items (mashed potatos, cole slaw, BISCUITS!), but I've never been a huge fan of fried chicken. As a child I acquired a small model version of a KFC restaurant (how Kentucky can you get?) from somewhere and always really enjoyed "running" the drive thru window with my other toys especially the my little ponies.

The neon signs did some crazy stuff to the pictures so get ready for some dramatic lighting. If you've never been there I highly recommend going to the American Sign Musuem. It is full of signs like these. Standing next to the humming neon you can actually feel the heat coming off the bulbs. I wonder how much more the power bill for the musuem will be while the borrowed signs are installed.

This picture of Jessy reminds me of Kim Novak in Vertigo and that gorgeous green glowing sign outside her window. Hitchcock of course would dress his heroine up in more stoic garb than what we wore. I think the theme of Americana was definetly on our minds as we dressed for this day. I must confess I also had the Miro mural as an inspiration when I decided to wear this crayola circle skirt. I just love that both Jessy and I wore strong primary colors.

After being inside with the signs for a while we decided to check out the courtyard. This is one of my favorite spots in the museum. When the Art Academy of Cincinnati was located in the building adjacent to the museum I used to sometimes walk over and have my lunch outside in this little sculpture garden. The cafe had the most amazing tomato bisque, I at it constantly. The first photograph of this post was also take out here in the courtyard. The bronze doors behind us are usually locked. If you peep through their tinted glass you will be looking into the Asian art galleries.

I resisted the t-strap trend for quite a while, but I am in love with these shoes. They are have the perfect height heel and are super duper comfortable. I can run around all day in them and my feet don't hurt at all. Also, they have a retro vibe to them which I dig.

Of course we finished our Art Museum visit by playing on the Marc di Suvero. I have always loved this piece, mainly due to it's playful nature. You can't see it in this picture but the actual work is made up of 32 foot long beams painted bright red. The swing has been removed on occasion, but I'm quite happy it is back in action.

A big thanks to Jessy's boyfriend Jacob for taking the majority of these awesome photos!

Outfit details:

Black bodysuit: American Apparel
Vintage Crayola colors circle skirt: Talk of the Town
Red cardigan (which I did not wear): Gap Outlet
T-strap heels: Seychelles
Wide Amber belt: Anthropologie
Faux snakeskin purse: Thrifted

Hope to see you at U·swap this Saturday night!

Mod Squad Caged: Valentino Fall 2010 Couture

2010-07-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

Images via Style.com

I sometimes forget to look at the detail shots of new collections, but that is sort of the point of couture. I included detail shots for this post and will try to do so from now on. Simply gorgeous, I especially love the sheer blousy sleeves on these garments, they work almost like an invisible force field. For that matter the entire collection is making me think of soft robots in a mod sort of way. The leather bow fingertip gloves are really wonderful. I like that they function, but only to a point. Lovely.

Turbans & Violins: Jean Paul Gaultier Fall 2010 Couture

2010-07-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

Images via Style.com

Gaultier is one of my favorites. That said I've been looking at lots of images of turbans lately and wondering how this could translate today. I am really liking the turban/fiddle heads these ladies are wearing, very like old school Hollywood glamour. The treatment of the trenchcoats is also really lovely, especially the ones trimmed with fur. The blue velvet piece stood out with its bulbous wing-like shoulders and the gold bit underneath. I'm going to have to look for some vintage turbans next time I'm out gallivanting.

Gilded and Cut Cloth: Givenchy Fall 2010 Couture

2010-07-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

Images via Style.com

According to the review of this collection the pieces were inspired by Frida Kahlo and her three obsessions: religion, sensuality, and human anatomy. Interesting... I really like the color scheme of these garments, they evoke bone, ash, fine metals.

Beauty & the Beast: Chanel Fall 2010 Couture

2010-07-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

Images via Style.com

It may just be my own obsession with fairy tales, but I'm gonna take a chance and say that Karl Lagerfeld was a bit inspired by them as well in this collection. I love love love those boots (especially the blue and gold ones!). They look so slouchy and perfect, like the love child of Klimt and Rainbow Bright...I also just love the simple look the models have this season, simple parted hair and red lips. So looking forward to Fall.

Swap till you Drop!

2010-07-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

So I've been mentioning this project I've been working on with Jessy for a bit now.... I guess it's about time to let the cat out of the bag. Along with creating our own little series of blogger adventures we will be co-hosting a clothing swap to be held at U·turn Art Space. We've gotten some friends together to help us celebrate all thing fashionable, so I hope those of you locals can join us for the event!

As part of U·turn's July exhibition, Summer Some Aren't, we have concocted some special events as sudden excuses for drinking in the sunlight and expressing our own happy sense of community.

The haze of Cincinnati summer is upon us, the humidity is making us wander out looking for adventures, but what to wear?! To help with your summer wardrobe doldrums U·turn has partnered with the wondrous Chicken Lays an Egg to bring you U·swap on Saturday July 24 from 7-10 pm. We invite you to bring up to 10 items of clothing (washed please), including shoes and accessories. A suggested donation of $5.00 gets you in the door where you will have the opportunity to "swap" your gently used items for new to you pieces. There's no telling what treasures you might come across. All remaining clothing will be donated to Goodwill.

A summer soundtrack will be provided by the always stylish Mandy Levy & Kenneth Wright while you swap.

To complete the midsummer night's festivities Whirly Girl and Kitchenette will be on hand offering espresso based beverages, iced concoctions and elixirs for sale, along with tasty treats including their pastel pièce de résistance, the Kitchenette Macaron!

There might even be a photo-booth of sorts on hand ready for you to strike a pose in your new found finery!

Join us for this one night celebration of community, art, fashion, food, and sustainable shopping.

Weekend Adventures Act III : An Afternoon in Spring Grove Cemetary

2010-06-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

For a while now I've been corresponding and plotting several fun adventures and projects with the delightful and stylish Jessy of Mascara and Motoroil. A few Sundays ago (Father's Day) we decided to embark on the first of these little Queen City blogger meet-ups. Funtimes were had.

I had never been to the well-known (the second largest cemetery in the country) Spring Grove Cemetery, but had always heard wonderful things about the architecture and interesting tours they provide. When I read that the Ohio Valley Carriage Club would be descending upon the Cemetery to show visitors how it may have appeared on a Sunday in the 1850s. The people driving the carriages were dressed in period clothing and had my sympathy for it was another hot one. Jessy's dad is a member of the club, but wasn't showing this year. He was on hand however to witness a quite unexpected carriage collision.

Each carriage had its own special little touch. I especially loved the fringe on the edge of this one.

This little guy got in on the fun too. So adorable. I went through a pretty heavy horse phase when I was younger so it was really fun to sort of revisit that time. My friend Patricia has a pretty amazing collection of horse figurines and other equine themed items, so of course I invited her to come as well.

Dressing for this day was fun and a bit of a challenge. Originally I toyed with wearing a floral print, but decided I wanted to reference the idea of mourning (since the day's destination was a cemetery) by wearing "widow's weeds" i.e. black. Images by Edward Gorey were also on my mind while dressing. Now, it is mid June so it's going to be hot so I chose to wear a cotton sleeveless black sundress as a compromise. The dress itself was a tad on the short side for me (I'm most at home in dresses and skirts that fall slightly below the knee), so I made a quick trip to the thrift store in search of a black slip of some kind to have peek out just below the hem. I went to my beloved Valley Thrift in hopes of finding something magical. The Valley has yet to disappoint me. I scored a lovely black half slip with accordion pleating and a scalloped hem to boot! Quite the find in my humble opinion, I plan on using this as a way of extending the hem quite a bit in the months to come.

In the vein of wearing mourning clothes I had this idea of wearing a hat with some sort of veiling. A few days prior to Sunday I made a little trip up to one of my favorite vintage stores in our area Talk of the Town to look for an appropriate chapeau. Sometimes when I have a specific look in mind it makes it hard to be open to letting things just happen. That being said I had this austere veiled funereal hat in mind, but found an amazing wide brimmed straw boater hat with a black hat band instead. This hat would fulfill my purposes, additionally the wide brim would provide me protection from the sun (I additionally slathered on SPF 50 of course). The lady who runs Talk was super helpful and had a really amazing selection of hat pins to help me secure my head covering in place. Add woven leather flats and brown belt and I'm set for an afternoon frolic around graves.
Jessy had on a wonderful day dress which was the most amazing shade of blue. I must say I really admire her sense of style, she always has such wonderful accessories (earrings, brooch, ring, bracelet) which complement each other just right.

As we walked about we didn't really have a goal, but we came upon several small lakes on the grounds. The water was really green and seemed to be full of fishes. We spotted several swans (which are mean and hissed at me) and a gaggle of geese. Next time I will have to bring some bread to feed the birds. The edge of the lakes were crowded with snail shells, beautiful spiral ones.

Across the lake we spotted what looked like a castle church structure and decided to investigate.

Simply put it was an absolutely gorgeous day of fun. When we had had our fill of the graves and heat Graeter's provided a nice cool respite. The first of many excursions was quite successful.

Outfit details:

Black striped cotton sun-dress: Urban Outfitters (summer sale)

Black accordion pleated slip: Thrifted

vintage large brim boater hat: Talk of the Town

Brown leather belt: Thrifted

Brown leather woven oxfords: Thrifted

Tooled leather bag : Thrifted

Weekend Adventures Act II : Wedding + Cornfield

2010-06-23T19:40:00.000-07:00

Originally when planning my adventures for this weekend I had heard about a local apple farm which was offering the chance to pick your own blueberries. In anticipation of this I had invited several people to join me to frolic in the field just like Sal.

Sadly though when I awoke on Saturday morning the weather was ghastly and wet. I canceled the trip and went back to sleep for a bit. When I got back up at 10:00 (the time at which we planned on arriving at the blueberry field) the sun was shining and carrying on as if no rain had fallen (treachery). Even though my original food procuring plans were dashed I am quite glad it stopped raining as a wedding was to occur later in the afternoon. My friend Patricia invited me as her last minute 3rd choice date (I'm kidding I actually didn't mind) to the wedding of Eric and Emma, an absolutely adorable couple.

Yes, that is a corn field behind Patricia. The scenery was amazing and boy was it hot. Patricia gave the couple one of her paintings as a gift. The ceremony was simple and sweet and afterward we made our way to a tent to find our seat assignments on a jar of homemade jam. Yum!

It is always a bit scary going to a wedding or some such event and finding yourself seated at a table of total strangers. Luckily we were seated with three of the most amusing, interesting, and creative couples in the joint. After the initial intros we seemed to hit it off with everyone, hopefully some crafty trades and fun shall be had with these new friends in the near future.

Yes, there are three plates of dessert in front of me in this photo. And yes, I ate most of them. The wedding cake was simple and one tier so there were about 30 (maybe an exaggeration) different desserts. I was especially impressed by the homemade ice cream that topped it all off. I chose a blueberry cake (to spite the weather), rhubarb crumble, pecan pie, and a wonderful carrot cake. When the dancing began everyone had a bit of a sugar / dessert hangover.

The dress I wore was originally procured as part of my costume this past Halloween. I dressed as the admirable Joan Harris (nee Holloway) of Mad Men fame. I really love this dress so I was super glad to get to wear it again and not in the context of a costume. Also, it feels totally different wearing it in the summer sun rather than when it's cold out. The print just glowed and matched the mood of the day.

Even though Saturday didn't go exactly as I had planned it turned out to be an absolutely wonderful day filled with good food, laughter, and fun.

Outfit details:

1950's teal floral print wiggle dress : Vera Vague on Etsy
Faux snakeskin peeptoe sandals : Urban Outfitters
White wicker purse : Atomic Number Ten in OTR

Weekend Adventures Act I : Art + Ice Cream

2010-06-20T19:08:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was miraculously off from both jobs. In anticipation of two whole days free from library nonsense I planned several small adventures for myself, some of which sadly did not happen due to the jerky weather (I shake my fist at you).

Friday the weekend started off on a high note with the opening reception of The House in My Head at the Weston Art Gallery in downtown. I was quite excited to see this exhibition as some of my most favorite artists (and previous professors) from Cincinnati were included. But I'm getting ahead of myself...the evening began at Sweet Tooth in Newport with ice cream of course. The weather of late (which is an unruly beast) has gotten so hot so fast I have very little appetite other than very cold things i.e. ice cream and/or ice balls with ice cream. There are a few family owned candystores in the area and I usually go to either Schneider's or Sweet Tooth. Both are adorable with murals painted on the outside and delicious treats on the inside. I was feeling especially silly in my dressing for the night and wore my aqua belt in anticipation of ordering a scoop of mint chocolate chip, I know I'm ridiculous. Actually now that I think about it the skirt I wore has this amazing polka dotted, ruffle under skirt that matches nicely with the chocolate chip bit too.

After our spot of refreshment it was off into the night for some art openings. As I mentioned I had been looking forward to the show at the Weston for quite a bit. I'm happy to say that it truly lived up to what I expected. The House in My Head centered around "the perceptions of the house as a fantasy architectural form, living environment, and psychological space." I was especially proud that two of my former professors (Elaine Lynch and Keith Benjamin) were included in the show with amazing work.

#2#5 And Then

In March U.turn had a show of Keith Benjamin's work, in the statement for the show, Unemployed Title the following text appears:

Keith Benjamin reconfigures recycled materials from his everyday family life into intricate meditations on living optimistically and without pretense. Benjamin’s use of cardboard packaging salvaged from cereal boxes, packaging for soda and beer and other snack foods is uniquely sensitive.

I've always really enjoyed Keith's work and having him as a professor has had a significant impact on my art practice. His humor, use of everyday materials, and attention to detail especially influenced me.

Morning Dew, 2010

Fat Fur Rainbow

Elaine Lynch is probably the closest thing to a mentor I had while in college, and one of my biggest influences as an artist. In my senior year at the Art Academy I interned as her teacher's assistant. Last year when my friends and I created U.turn our first show was a group exhibition we envisioned as a sort of thank you to those who got us to the point where we wanted to begin our own gallery venture, I immediately thought of Elaine. Her work is playful and evocative, a combination of found objects and sensitive mark-making. In that first show, Brought to You By, Elaine installed her piece, Fat Fur Rainbow, an arched grouping of vintage fur stoles and charcoal to the delight of our collective members and the public. Her new works are simple and stunning like little love letters or talismans to protect the viewer.

detail of For my mother who lives in my head; in memory of LB, 2010

detail of, Thanking my lucky midwestern stars for you, 2010

Outfit details

Nude and black jersey tank: Urban Outfitters

Silk darkroom skirt: Anthropologie

Nude flats: Marais USA

Aqua belt: Thrifted

Off with your head

2010-06-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

Speaking of Lace.
I've been watching season 4 of The Tudors lately and can't help but feel that these shoes by Seychelles would totally fit into that fashion world. I really love the "plunge" the high almost Elizabethan collar creates. So lovely.

To complete the royal look I would go with the Tudor Style Dress from ModCloth. I just love the clean but old school look of this dress. I really love to hate Henry VIII, this last season he has become a bit sadder. Bless the heart of the costume designer, and the way the hair is arranged (always just so) so grand.

I really have enjoyed how each of his wives has been very different in her sense of fashion. Anne Boleyn has probably been my favorite. She is portrayed as being very creative when it came to fashion. I especially like the little fur hat she wears in the above image.

Blue skies...and bikes

2010-06-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

I've been on the lookout for a bike for a while now and finally found a winner this past weekend on Craigslist. It is blue (my favorite) color and appropriately vintage. I shall christen her Louise. I've ridden Louise to work at the Little Library twice now and quite enjoy our route.

I have had my eye on this lace bike basket for quite awhile, so I'm glad I found an excuse to order one for myself. One of the best features of it is that it detaches so you can use it as a grocery basket. I want to steal some kittens to take for a bike ride.

As perfect as my new mode of transport is I may be doing a bit of customizing on my new little 3 speed in the coming months. The pedals and hand grips are currently an unfortunate plastic material that has turned a yellow color. I may go with some cork grips and am unsure about pedals at the moment, but some lights would help for night riding too.

I came across these beautiful skirt guards the other day via Lovely Bicycle! Unfortunately due to the website being in Dutch I do not think they ship to the U.S. I may need to learn how to make something similar.

Biking outfit

dress: handmade by Mom from a vintage vogue pattern
belt: thrifted
shoes: thrifted

Who gives a frock about prints?

2010-06-12T22:08:00.000-07:00

Me of course!

One of the benefits my new job is that I am constantly surrounded by history and all its trappings. Specifically I can get my grubby little mitts on basically a goldmine's worth of microfilm filled to the brim with vintage clothing advertisements! I plan on sharing here some of the gems I come across.

Let's get started shall we.

Today while searching various local papers from 1925 I managed to find a lovely little fashion editorial that perfectly suits how I feel at the present as regards patterned clothing (i.e. frocks).

It is a strange sort of coincidence that today in the New York Times an article ran describing the current trend for clothing companies to dig into their past repertoire for styles worn today. "For some clothing brands, the summer of 2010 looks a lot like the summer of 1910, and 1949, and 1957 — basically, any time but now."

Chchchanges

2010-06-11T12:42:00.001-07:00

Lots of exciting new things are in store here on the blog. New layout yay! Also,

Follow my blog with bloglovin

I have confidence in sunshine...

2010-06-08T20:33:00.000-07:00

I've been super behind on posting lately, please forgive. Since starting my new job I've been quite energized and have had many good ideas for wonderful things to share here, but sometimes I take time to get things on from my mind to the page...One of these in the works posts includes me discussing my current style inspirations from two amazing television shows, Mad Men and the defunct Pushing Daisies.

Lately I've had the pleasure to be exchanging notes with another Cincinnati blogger gal, Jessy of Mascara or Motoroil. I'm super excited for us to have our own little hometown blogger meet up. I foresee lots of fun adventures in our future, which of course we will be sharing with you (whoever you are). Speaking of Mad Men Jessy shared the most amazing dress which was quite reminiscent of one Betty wears in both season 2 and 3 of the show. It is very infrequent that the character is seen in a repeat outfit, so I think it must be a special piece to her. She wears it to visit her father in season 2 and to make a presentation to the neighborhood board in season 3, which goes to show she must really feel confident and powerful in the dress (something that doesn't come naturally to her). Don't we all have those go to pieces in our closets...I know I do. What do you wear when you want to feel super at ease, but also super stylish?

Before you know it...

2010-06-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

It is June and I can hardly believe it. I have been super busy the past few weeks learning on the job, and moving into a new studio (with some awesome helpers). I still need to set up some tables in the space, but then I'll be in business. I haven't had a studio space since I moved out of my apartment this past November. I am ashamed to admit my art-making has been slow to non-existent since then.

I will be having a solo show at U.turn in October so I will be at the studio quite a bit in these upcoming months. I have been brewing some ideas for new work as of late and will be sharing tid bits of the work here along the way.

I have found that I plan for shows or events backwards. I often (not always) plan out what I am going to wear before doing anything else. This is true for my show in October. I have found the most wonderful dress (which unfortunately for you I will not be unveiling until October) for my opening reception. Dressing up has always played a part in my art work, and I am going to take a different approach this time around and allow this certain garment to influence the work a tiny bit.

Tying the Knot , digital inkjet print, fabric 2007

In my senior thesis work I photographed myself using objects I created to highlight the similarity between Catholic sacraments and housework. I wore the same nondescript black dress (vestment/uniform) in each of the images, but made it a point not to wear that garment in public while the work was on display.

Wash Away, digital inkjet prink, soap, thread 2007

I have found that I require a clear separation from myself as the artist and the figures who exist in my photographs. Similar to Cindy Sherman I do not see my photographs as self-portraits, but often it is crucial that I am the figure in the image acting out some physical drama. This was specifically true in the body of work from my senior year as well as a series I made in 2008 as part of a three person show at ArtWorks.

Be Careful What You Wish For, digital inkjet print 2008

Cradle Cap, digital inkjet print 2008

In my most recent photographs I began to use other close female friends instead of myself. I'm still coming to understand this transition, but often I would direct the "stand in" to carry out an action I myself had done many times or had envisioned doing.

Princess, You Never Had it So Soft, digital inkjet print 2009

The Midwestern Girl's Answer to Everything But, digital inkjet print 2009

Girl Tying Her Hair in Knots, digital inkjet print 2009

The Graduate and fresh starts...

2010-05-16T17:05:00.000-07:00

This post is a little scattered, my apologies.

This past Saturday my good friend Patricia graduated(Valedictorian no less) from the Art Academy of Cincinnati! I was able to attend the graduation and it took me back in time to my own, which took place three years ago.

The ceremony was held in Memorial Hall next door to Music Hall in historic Over the Rhine. Memorial Hall is just a few blocks from the school, meaning the students march from the school with a mounted police escort and a bagpiper. The year I graduated as we walked past Washington Park the homeless people cheered us on (it was a little strange). Yesterday was especially musical due to some sort of festival going on in Washington Park. This made my day due to the fact that they were blasting Michael Jackson. The students in this 2010 class were first years when I was a senior, so it's been interesting to see their work develop.

Memorial Hall is an amazing space. The colors and murals with adorn the walls, and ceiling are just so wonderful. This is the fourth time in the past few months I've gotten to spend time there, the MusicNow festival took place there in March and I had the pleasure of hearing many amazing musicians including Joanna Newsome, St. Vincent, and Justin Vernon of Bon Iver.

I'm excited for everyone getting fresh starts this time of year. I will be starting my new job tomorrow at the Downtown Library and I'm a bit nervous, but also very excited. I'm going to ride the bus in the morning with my mom and we are going to meet up for lunch on fountain square (hopefully the weather will allow for it).

Wishing luck to all the graduates out there

Wish me luck!

Chicago, Eggleston, and Spring!

2010-05-10T13:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my fellow U.turn collective members and I drove to Chicago (in a van) to return artwork that was in our April show, Breakups R Tough. It was a whirlwind day. After dropping off the pieces to their respective homes we split up to view separate shows. I was determined to see the William Eggleston exhibition, The Democratic Camera, at the Art Institute of Chicago, while the rest of the group went to the MCA. I wish I could have seen both museums, but I was quite content seeing Eggleston's work and the lovely walk I had to meet everyone else at the MCA.

I have written a bit about Eggleston's work before, but seeing this large retrospective I was blown away. I had a similar reaction after seeing the Diane Arbus retrospective a few years ago at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis. You study these works in books, and pour over the images, to see them in person is something so different. Actually now that I think of it I probably link the work of Eggleston quite a bit to the work of Arbus. There are stark differences of course, she concentrated on fine black and white prints, while he championed the concept of the color snapshot, but I find a similar aesthetic within their work.

I was simply overwhelmed by the color present in his images, not to mention the subjects, and compositions. Eggleston's goals with color actually seemed to be simple in comparison to the reactions people often have to the work, “I had wanted to see a lot of things in color because the world is in color.”

After leaving the Art Institute I opted to walk up Michigan Avenue to meet up with the others at the Musuem of Contemporary Art. It was a little over a mile and the weather was gorgeous, a bit crisp, but I was warmed by the walking. My outfit for the day was an homage to the colors present in Eggleston's work as well as a nod to the Mother's day holiday. I wore a grey wool high-waisted circle skirt (made by my mom in the 70s) with a black dance leotard. To complement the neutral nature of this I wore mustard colored tights and a red cardigan sweater. As a finishing touch I paired my black and gold stud flats with a gold leaf clasp stretch belt. I have gotten quite good with the self timer and luckily there were quite a few little sitting spots for me to set my camera on.

On my walk I stopped to visit some of the parks along the way. I also passed a shop selling only popcorn and a man playing an accordion on a street corner. Oh Chicago...

She's so lovely..

2010-05-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to do a post about my Mom, and her influence on my style for a while and Mother's Day gives me the perfect excuse. I love the way my mom dresses. I pulled out some of the old photo albums and scanned a few of my favorite outfits she has worn. The image above is one of my all time favorites, I wish I knew where that skirt was I would wear it in a heartbeat! I think my Mom would call herself a bit of a tomboy, but I think she has this great ability to blend that no-nonsense approach with a soft femininity that I am really in love with. She combines her short boyish hair with classic garments to achieve looks I am jealous of.

This year I will be in Chicago (returning art and checking out the Eggleston exhibition) on Mother's Day so I decided to put this together as a surprise.

I'm lucky to have so many amazing photographs of her, my dad seems to have had a camera permanently fused to his hand.

My Mom actually made her own wedding dress and her bridesmaids dresses. She put together several different patterns and created a stunning Victorian looking gown. The lace and collar alone make me swoon.

Have I mentioned that I love my parents! This photograph was taken on their honeymoon.

Happy Mother's Day!

So Exciting (sung version)

2010-05-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

Lots of news to share!

I have lapsed again an am a terrible, horrid blogger. When I tell you my news you may understand a bit why I have been so absent.

First things first. This past Saturday was Derby day. As a Kentucky native I tend to get a bit excited about this event. When I was in junior high I went through a bit of a horse phase, I drew countless images of various breeds of horses, obsessed over the books by Marguerite Henry, and generally spoke only in terms of horses. This phase entailed coercing my family to travel to the Kentucky Horse Park and the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs in Louisville. The Derby is traditionally held on the first Saturday of May, and as the first Saturday is when we have openings at U.turn in Brighton I had the perfect excuse to get dressed up. Zach Rawe, one of the members of U.turn was the artist of the evening. His work looked playful and amazing. To nibble we had cupcakes, cheese and other bits. A mint julep punch was on hand for all those celebrating the Derby/May day festivities.

I found this lovely Kelly green day dress at Atomic Number Ten, a little vintage shop in OTR. I had another outfit already planned when I spotted on the rack, I snapped it right up and was so pleased it fit. It was quite a bit longer, but my mom hemmed it so it hits a bit above my knee for a fresher look. One of the best features of this dress is the back which has these tucks with green lace.

The look really began with the earrings, a pair of golden arrows. I had a sort of Athena meets Robin Hood look in mind and so I began to hunt for a hat worthy of such inspirations. I discovered the perfect chapeau from Lorraine's Vintage on Etsy for my needs. This brown felt hat is reminiscent of girl scouts as well as military uniforms (with a touch of sass in the form of pearls).

Aside from being excited about this ensemble I got a new job! I will no longer be working at the Catholic bookshop, which makes me a bit sad, but I will be working in downtown Cincinnati at the big Library (as I called it when small)! I will be juggling two part-time jobs in two different types of library systems, I am very excited and happy about this. I will miss being asked if I am a nun, and random weird questions about patron saints. My last week at the bookstore is next week and I will be doing a bit of documentation before I am out of there.

Like a Prayer...

2010-04-02T08:11:00.000-07:00

Wishin' and Hopin'

2010-03-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

My birthday is coming up and just for fun, or perhaps as a odd method of torturing myself I decided to put together a little wish list to share...

The following are in no order, and I honestly don't expect to receive any of them, this is just a silly daydreaming game for me.

Vintage navy rain coat with white toggle buttons
From Dowry Arts & Vintage on Etsy.

Early 80's Cream Linen Dress

From Paper Doll Vintage on Etsy

Fringe Earrings
From NorwegianWood on Etsy

Lamp in Grey by Jeffrey Campbell

Fuji Instax Instant Camera

GaGa will be in Indianapolis in July
Tickets would be lovely!

Mainly I just want to spend my birthday with people who make me smile. Dinner at Arnold's and bowling will take place. Huzzah, 25 here I come!

Puce Moment

2010-03-18T12:06:00.000-07:00

A lovely lady came to visit Cincinnati and shared this video with me.
This is how I feel when I get dressed everyday.

Vol. II

2010-03-10T11:10:00.000-08:00

March 23 can't get here soon enough!

Starbursts and Polka Dots

2010-03-04T11:06:00.000-08:00

Stephen Shore, Sunset drive-in, Amarillo, Texas, 1974

William Eggleston, Greenwood Mississippi 1973

I made a little visit to the Cincinnati Art Museum last week (it sometimes takes me a long time to digest and think about what I have seen) to see the new photography exhibit, Starburst: Color Photography in America 1970-1980, and boy was it amazing. In terms of the history of photography as art the use of color is relatively new, I think that this is something it is easy for us to forget in the digital age. It was jarring and delightful to be reminded of this, I came away with a feeling of nostalgia for a time I never really experienced (a not dissimilar feeling to how vintage clothing tugs on my heart). Just one look at these works and one is transported to a different time and feel.

Mitch Epstein, Madison Avenue, New York City 1973

The main galleries containing the photographs were book-ended by smaller galleries (a prologue and and epilogue if you will) that contained works from the decades that came before and followed the years the exhibit concentrated on (1970-1980). At first I was a bit unsure about this curatorial choice, but the more I think about it I am convinced that this was the only natural thing to do in so specific of an exhibition.

I cannot place myself directly in the context of what viewing these works would have been like at the time they were created, but I can imagine that it must have been similar to what Dorothy experienced walking in the the full technicolor glory of OZ. I can read and understand that at the time these photographs in garish bright color were thought to be controversial, but I cannot imagine a world without them. As much as I love good old black and white photographs and working in the heady soothing space of the darkroom, there is something so undeniably gorgeous about the work of William Eggleston, Stephen Shore, Mitch Epstein, Richard Misrach, Leo Rubenfien, Neal Slavin etc. or at least something that makes it hard to take your eyes away.

William Eggleston, Tricycle, Memphis

Richard Misrach, Outdoor dining, Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah

Unfortunately I make a very bad gallery visitor. I tend to look at everything far too long (from various viewpoints trying to suss out an interpretation) and get very very close to the work (I blame this on the fact that I used to be a gallery attendant and so have little fear of them). The works demanded notice and an attention to the detail that was presented among the glaring colors. Textures (whether they were from nature or man made), fabrics, styles of dress, as well as architecture existed like little clues to aid me in my visual quest.

Leo Rubinfien, On a Train to Brighton, England, 1980

Neal Slavin, International Twins Association, Muncie, IN

A Small grouping of manipulated sx-70 Polaroids by Les Krims was also inlcluded in the show. I wasn't too familiar with his work, but they reminded me a bit of Lucas Samaras' similar use of altering Polaroids. Oh Polaroid...le sigh. Recently there have been many articles, blog posts, etc. on the loss of Polaroid Instant Film and what that means, but allow me to take a moment to reminisce... Polaroids were a magic time machine of sorts as you could make a photograph that possessed qualities (i.e. color) one associated with another time. I used sx-70 quite a bit early in my time at the Art Academy, I think what most attracted me to it was the instant gratification that was possible with the film, as well as the hazy heavy sheen that was cast over an image. Oh and the square format...Oh geeze don't get me started. Perhaps I should go into hibernation until the rerelease of Polaroid film is official.

Les Krims

Lucas Samaras, Photo-Transformation 1973

Wearing silk at the beach is never easy

New York Fashion Week (What I like about you + How you make me die)

2010-02-20T06:09:00.000-08:00

I've been slow in posting these. This particular New York Fashion Week will stand out in my memory for many reasons, but most of all because it came with the sad news about Alexander McQueen's suicide. I wrote a brief tribute post about the designer on The Wearer. I collected some of my favorite images from his various collections to share as well.

Without further ado...

Araks Fall 2010 RTW

Skinny belts

neon

nude

BCBG Max Azria Fall 2010 RTW

White legs

sequins draped

fringe

Cynthia Rowley Fall 2010 RTW

Collars held high

pleats

military time

L'Wren Scott Fall 2010 RTW

Caped

collared

hat perch

Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall 2010 RTW

Filigree fabric

belted

falling socks

(I die I die)

Marc Jacobs Fall 2010 RTW

Antique ankles

wooled

bowed and collared

(I die a little more)

Isaac Mizahi Fall 2010 RTW

Fur cuffed

mossy lace

bunched

Rodarte Fall 2010 RTW

Bridal white

bridle white

shaggy skirts

The Row Fall 2010 RTW

Belt ties

feet ties

naked colors

Oh spring...

2010-02-15T17:30:00.000-08:00

non plus one final from Tracy ANTONOPOULOS on Vimeo.

Fashion + Music + Jason + Kirsten = Oh my!

Peter Pan blouse + books = LOVE

2010-02-03T08:38:00.000-08:00

I think Anthropologie is targeting me or something with their current set of featured fashion. Anthropologie aka the "bad store" and I have a love hate relationship. A few years ago when the mecca opened in Cincinnati I began going there to browse and one thing led to another and needless to say I own far too many pieces of clothing from there. The store has become my version of Holly's Tiffany addiction. I go there when I'm having a bad day and try some impossibly expensive clothing to deal (strange I know). Their newest featured fashion plays right into my dressing aesthetic, and it is a little creepy. They are tending towards a sort of vintage quality, but it is a little too perfect. I like my vintage frumpy, frayed, and not too fancy.

The featured looks have names like "stacks & bounds," "quiet hours," "curriculum study," and "read & renew." The looks themselves evoke equal parts Marion the Librarian, and stylish school marm. Again this is sort of what I am going for on a daily basis.

My most current obsession has been to find vintage peter pan collar blouses. I like wearing dresses to work and play in, but there is something about a skirt and blouse that is really classic and polished. In the past couple years I have embraced the waist and have never looked back to those awkward years of hip hugging (yuck). There is something so ultra feminine about wearing a high-waisted skirt that I just love. Like the images from Anthropologie above I frequently match a dress with a cinching belt (often over a sweater of the cardigan variety) to complete a look. I can't really remember when I first began utilizing belts in a purely decorative fashion, but it is a trend that has been embraced by a lot of people (i.e. Michelle Obama).

Hello.

2010-02-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

I've been terrible and not posted much lately, but I have a somewhat good excuse. I cannot remember if I shared with you that my good lady friend, Lindsey, and I recently started a blog devoted to what we wear and why etc. It is called The Wearer, and we are both quite proud of it. Working on this project has made me get a lot better at documenting my fashion daily decisions (with the occasional help of some lovely patient people) to share. I added the blog to my blogroll so you should take a look. Along with sharing our own style, Lindsey and I began the blog in the hope that others would begin to send us their images for us to post up too.

The second reason I haven't written here in a while is I've also been writing for U·turn's blog. A lot has been happening lately in terms of the gallery and I have to scramble to keep everything updated. One of my dear dear friends (and co gallerists) Matt Morris will be debuting a new body of work at the gallery this Saturday! I wrote a post about his work and I am quite proud of the piece.

So you see dear readers, whoever you may be, I have not forgotten this little bitty blog. I will have to sort of figure out how to juggle the three bloggys, but just be patient with me.

Everything's coming up...

2010-01-13T10:46:00.000-08:00

Well dear readers I have a bit of news. I found out last Saturday that my hours at the Catholic bookstore are being cut back because of the economy (blerg). Do not fear I have a plan, I have decided after a few days of contemplation that this may be a blessing in disguise.

I began this blog and my etsy shop a few years ago, and have decided to beef things up a bit since I will have Mondays off from now on to concentrate on that. From now on Sister in Second-hand Sequins will be carrying a selection of vintage clothing, unique baubles, and art.

January 18 will be my first Monday. Monday is traditionally the day thriftstores have additional discounts yeah again! I am planning on adding quite a few things to the shop that day so please check back often. I will also be using that day to work on some studio work as well, this includes but is not limited to research, drawing, blogging, plotting etc.

Something About Mary

2010-01-01T20:12:00.000-08:00

On my recent excursion to the Big Apple I made it a point to visit the gallery at the Metropolitan Opera house. I took the above picture as I tried to recreate some scenes from Moonstruck...(another post). The exhibition on display featured works by contemporary artists exploring the image of Mary Magdalene. The idea for this show stemmed from the Met's staging of Puccini's Tosca. In the first act of this opera the painter Mario Cavaradossi is seen painting a portrait of this biblical figure. The gallery was only open prior to performances so I was able to experience the full effect of "going to the opera" in a way.

Francesco Clemente, Self-portrait as Maria Magdalene (2009)

Rachel Feinstein, Mary (me)

The exhibit, Something About Mary, was quite small, but I enjoyed the grouping nonetheless. I was especially struck by the fact that a few of the artists interpreted their image of the Magdalene as a self-portrait. Both Francesco Clemente and Rachel Feinstein opted for this method and the pieces were very different. Feinstein's work was directly on a mirror so the viewer saw themselves as they gazed at this woman.

Kiki Smith, Mary Magdalene

Kiki Smith's worn interpretation of Mary Magdalene also made an appearance in the show. This was probably my favorite piece. The treatment of the surface is so amazing and detailed.

Elizabeth Peyton, Mary Magdalene after El Greco

Francesco Vezzoli, Silvana Mangano as Mary Magdalene

Aside from Kiki Smith I think I liked the above piece by Francesco Vezzoli. The image was punctuated by two needles that were put through the woman's eyes. I was surprised as I got close to the image to discover this detail. More surprising was the connection I found between the artist and a certain Lady I adore. More on that soon.

New Years and other news...

2009-12-31T11:39:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

As a twenty-something of scant, meager means I will be out on the town this eve hopefully dancing and getting into some good times. I am looking forward to the next year with hopes and excitement. I've got a few tricks up my sleeve these next few months. I have been a bit of a tease in sharing some of my images from New York and not the rest. Be patient with me, I shall share the full adventures of my trip soon. I am going to get better at updating this blog, it is one of my resolutions.

I have been busy, busy lately writing for the U · turn blog keeping it up to date on events we will be hosting at the gallery space. Also, I have begun contributing to The Wearer, a new project with my friend Lindsey Whittle which explorers our fascination with fashion and our daily adventures.

Immaculate

2009-12-28T15:54:00.000-08:00

As you can see from my previous post I made a trip to New York City recently (almost two weeks ago now). While I was in that beautiful, busy city I experienced a lot of wonderful things, and a few not so wonderful.

Friday of that week while riding the subway I spied a newspaper headline that made me pause in my excitement. Jennifer Jones, Film Star With a Turbulent Life, Dies at 90.

I have very clear memories as a child watching Ms. Jones in the film, The Song of Bernadette. This film and my fascination with has been an important part to my aesthetic as an artist. I am almost 100% certain there are a number of photos in existance of me as a child with an apron tied around my head imitating Jones' St. Bernadette (I was definitely one of those Catholic school girls who wanted to be a martyr) I admit that I have not seen any of her other films, but I think I will have to have a mini marathon so I can experience her full oeuvre.

One of the more memorable scenes of the film involves Bernadette crawling on the ground and eating mud at the behest of the Blessed Mother who appears to the young country girl several times.

This last image is actually poster art by painted for the film by master of Americana Norman Rockwell.

One week ago...today

2009-12-26T13:20:00.000-08:00

Salvation Army babes
Midtown mosh
Love or death in a sudden
snowstorm

My new found love of G.bread

2009-12-10T10:06:00.000-08:00

My mom is one of those people who starts baking Christmas cookies the day after Thanksgiving. For as long as I can remember she would be up earlier than normal on black Friday with apron in place and a dusting of flour on the kitchen counter.

This year was no different. After so many years of watching her create some pretty fancy cookies I hoped I was up to the challenge to create my own culinary art for the gingerbread exhibit for that was planned at U·turn. I had all sorts of fantastical ideas blooming in my noggin ever since we planned this event and seeing the images of Lady GaGa as the witch from Hansel and Gretal continued to fuel my sugar soaked imagination.

I knew I wanted to use edible gold leaf in some way in my piece for the show, so the first thing that came to mind was to create a gingerbook with gold leafed pages. I had my idea and only had to plot out my plan of attack. I am a poor excuse for a baker and waited until the last minute(the night before).

In my last minute of desperation, while feeling like a complete wretch I tried to procure some pre-made gingerbread dough courtesy of Pillsbury, but Kroger had other plans. Although it was more work in the end my gingerbread had a lovely flavor, full of spices and a moistness usually seen in cake. It probably helped that I covered the finished piles of gingerbread with creamy vanilla cake icing. To evoke a ribbon marker I scoured the grocery store for plain red fruit by the foot, (this endeavor proved to be more difficult than I thought, who knew there was such a need for tie-dyed fruit snacks.) a cleaver moment of genius if I do say so myself.

The next problem was to decide how to use the gold leaf to my advantage. I had wanted to coat the edges of the ginger pages with the stuff, but upon opening the box of stuff (I don't even really want to admit the horribleness of how much I spent on this treat.) the "gold leaves" appeared to be nothing more than a jumble of fragile crumbles. My dreams of intricate edibles were crushed like the gold leaf they had been built upon. I opted to create as smattering of gold on one of the pages of the book.

On the night of the opening we had quite a good turn out of gingerbread creations as well as attendees. As the time neared 10:00 pm the gallery filled up. Many of those in attendance were specifically there to enjoy the fruits of our holiday labor. Armed with a shining cheese knife I took to my book with little reverence.

The Hitchcockian Gaze and The GaGa

2009-11-23T20:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Lady GaGa released her sophomore album, The Fame Monster, to an eager public. The anticipation of this new body of work was heightened with the recent release of the first single and music video from this album, Bad Romance. After viewing this I was struck by the relationship that exists between Lady GaGa's music/stage performances and the oeuvre of Alfred Hitchcock. This is made explicit in the lyrics:

I want your psycho
Your vertigo stick
Want you in my rear window
Baby you're sick
I want your love
Love-love-love
I want your love
(Love-love-love I want your love)

At first glance this allusion to cinema could be chalked up to being nothing more than a couple of clever (if dirty) puns, but upon further study the song and accompanying music video is rife with pop culture references (from Max's wolf suit, to Anna Wintour's haughty specs, Cleopatra's helmet hair to MJ's Thriller claws as well as a bit of Stanely Kubrick thrown in just for fun). In her facebook bio GaGa is quoted as saying, "Pop Culture is art." While there has been much speculation surrounding the various points of cultural citation, the most interesting of these I found was the direct connection to Hitchcock and his three films named in the song.

The films of Alfred Hitchcock have merited volumes, essays, and further debate due to their historical, cultural, and artistic significance, a significance that is clearly not lost on GaGa. I find that the contemporary contextual playground she has begun to create is made up of, and feeds a broad collective consciousness. The genius of Hitchcock's films existed in his ability to orchestrate every detail of a scene from the set design to the actresses' wardrobe. His obsession with creating a meticulous reality within his movies is similar to the commitment I perceive in the work of Lady GaGa. She does not try and hide the fact that she is inspired by the art of others; in truth she cites with equal importance David Bowie and Peggy Bundy as having influenced her in creating her persona. Her facebook bio states, "I look at those artists as icons. It's not just about the music. It's about the performance, the attitude, the look; it's everything. That is where I live as an artist and that is what I want to accomplish."

While he has garnered the reputation of being a misogynist (perhaps unfairly) due in part to his scenes of violence against women that frequently occur in his films, Hitchcock was a master collaborator with his actors and actresses. One of these actors, Farley Granger, made note of the fact that Hitchcock always had to have one person in each film he could harass. Often it was in fact the female characters who took on this difficulty, but at the same time Hitch's work is dominated by a fascination with women and their charm, elegance, courage, wisdom, and maturity. A darker aspect he captured was their sorrow or suffering at the hands of men who treated them cruelly. This is seen most notably in the films that appear in the lyrics of Lady GaGa's song: Psycho, Vertigo, and Rear Window.

In a less than flattering biography of the director, Donald Spoto quotes Hitchcock as having said, "Nothing pleases me more than knocking the ladylikeness out of chorus girls." If I may for a moment suggest that GaGa is the ultimate chorus girl, and often finds a way to knock herself about in both her stage performances and her music videos. Most notably in her recent live performance of her single, Paparazzi, at the 2009 Mtv VMAs.

The singer dramatically ended the song on a high note, literally, hanging above the stage in a mock act of hanging herself whilst dripping with blood ala Carrie. In an interview with Newsweek prior to the awards show Ms. GaGa described the performance as being more of an installation piece meant to represent stoic and memorable martyrs of fame in history. The video for this same single portrays a scene of domestic violence, that results in a scantily clad GaGa being pushed by her fame hungry lover from a balcony. The Lady is not so easily don away with and returns to get her vengence, but only after a fantastic dance number involving a luxe wheelchair and shiny crutches. Again in Bad Romance the viewer finds her like Mr. Hitchcock's heroines being tormented by others. She is seemingly kidnapped and fed vodka from a cut-crystal glass. In the end however the victim exacts her personal brand of revenge/love over her captor/lover.

In an interview with Alexa Chung of Mtv earlier this month when the topic of Hitchcock came up Lady GaGa stated that by referencing the his horror films "What I'm really trying to say is I want the deepest, darkest, sickest parts of you that you're afraid to share with anyone because I love you(the viewer/listener) that much." This idea of loving someone to the point of death is a theme that runs through several of Hitch's stories, most strongly in the 1960 film Psycho. While most people concentrate on the brutal shower scene, I believe it to be just an effect of the deeper sickness that exists inside Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). I would submit here that the more lasting shock is the realization that Norman's character harbored and incestuously possessive love for his mother.

Upon discovering her in bed with another man he poisoned them both. To deal with his guilt from murdering her he has developed a split personality made up of himself and a "mother" persona. On top of all this is the fact that Norman has kept and preserved (somewhat) his mother's body for all these years. Her body has left a visible imprint on the bed in which she was killed. In early shots of the interior of the Bates Motel we notice stuffed game birds mounted to the walls to signify a foreshadowing of sorts as to how far someone might go to keep something they "love."

Again the concept of loving to the point of death (and beyond) comes up in another Hitchcock film, the 1958 Vertigo, starring Kim Novak and James Stewart. The work is maybe one of Hitchcock's cruelest while at the same time being full of a classic sense of romanticism. Scottie (James Stewart) suffers from a fear of heights and experiences a dizzying vertigo sensation anytime hee is in such a situation. Because of this phobia he is unable to save Madeleine (Kim Novak), the woman he has fallen in love with. She seemingly commits suicide by jumping from the bell tower of a mission church she and Scottie visit. Scottie is sent into a deep depression until he meets Judy, also played by Novak, who bears an uncanny resemblance to the dead Madeleine.

Scottie begins to obsessively try and mold Judy to become his lost Madeleine. By choosing a specific grey suit and telling her to dye her hair he is creating a fantasy to help cope with his guilt. Scottie eventually learns that Judy was in fact Madeleine all along, as part of a murder plot orchestrated by Madeleine's husband. He forces Judy to reenact Madeleine's death as a way for hime to overcome his self hatred and bring her back to life by creating a perfect illusion.

When they reach the top of the tower Judy becomes hysterical at the thought of taking the dead woman's role and loses her footing, thus plunging to her death repeating what the real Madeleine had done. It is in this Hitchcock film that the idea of the "gaze" is most fully explored. Scottie's view throughout the narrative is made up of a woman who is an artiface and when he tries to recreate something that did not exist in the first place he fails tragically.

Just as the gaze or the concept of voyeurism plays a part in Vertigo so to does it play a role in the third film mentioned in Bad Romance. Rear Window was released in 1954 and so is the earliest of the three movies discussed here. The way in which the film title is used in the song lyrics, one could come to some varying conclusions about the meaning. As stated earlier this line (Want you in my rear window / baby you're sick) on the surface seems to be just a sexually suggestive pun, but one thinks about the film being referenced one might come to some deeper conclusions. Rear Window centers around L.B. Jeffries (James Stewart), called Jeff, his fiancee Lisa Fremont (Grace Kelly), and Jeff's neighbors. Jeff a news photographer has broken his leg and has been immobile for several weeks at the point when the film takes place. Along with his physical injury Jeff is feeling trapped in his relationship with the fashionable Lisa, a model, who wants Jeff to settle down in a life with her. He rationalizes his fear of commitment by ridiculing Lisa's interest in fashion and way of expression. In order to overcome his sense of boredom Jeff begins to watch his neighbors through his apartment's rear windows. This begins innocently enough, but over time he begins to become fixated with this pastime to the point that he suspects one of them of murdering his wife.

Lisa acts as his legs and investigates Jeff's suspicions and in the process establishes her loyalty to their relationship. While Lisa is across the courtyard searching the supposed murderer's apartment and Jeff now sees her in his window, he finally realizes how important she is to him. Lisa's bravery in the face of danger and her ability to retain her glamour even in times of distress make her the ultimate Hitchcock woman.

GaGa's own persona in the Bad Romance seems to suffer from similar difficulties as the characters in the above mentioned works. After being wrestled by evil ladies in waiting from her protective bath the heroine is poisoned, bound in a trench coat adorned with black text, and then thrown before a room full of leering gangsters. When the coat is torn away it appears she has been dressed to impress. A glimmering diamond encrusted figure is revealed to to possess an almost "knight in shining armor (her own knight?) quality. This vision is repeated later in the video when GaGa dons a full Alexander McQueen garment and becomes the fashion baby, the runway revenge demon in disguise. Time is suspended when The Lady (as martyr?) stands dressed in black with a set of crystal rosaries coiled about her body, she is caught at the center of onlookers amid a rainstorm of glistening stones. Here she is transformed into a sort of deadly goregous chandelier. The various versions of GaGa that appear throughout the video seem to signify a split of the internal (when she is alone) and the external (when she is surrounded by others). One of the male figures seems to have his heart and jaw set on obtaining this prize. While the external GaGa seems to be up for his proposition, the internal version plots and reminds herself that she is A freak bitch baby. Upon remembering this our heroine's two selves seem to snap back together and she appears in a ruby colored bandage-like garment indicative that things are about to get dangerous. Wearing a regal polar bear pelt turned cloak and a pair of reflective glasses good enough for and ice queen cometh, the lady stalks towards her awaiting consort. Her love and revenge come together and ignite a blaze that reduces him to a pile of singed bones, his remains her glamorous and grotesque relic of a bad romance.

Both Hitchcock and GaGa seem to utterly delight in suspense, we are compelled to watch and wonder just what is going to happen next?

The witch is not dead...

2009-11-20T14:04:00.001-08:00

In anticipation of a longer blog post I'm working on concerning The Gaga here are a few images from Vogue's December "Art's Issue." This little series shot by Annie Leibovitz was inspired by the Metropolitan Opera's upcoming production of the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel. Lady Gaga appears in the spread as the Wicked Witch of the story.

While fattening up her captives the Witch sports Marc Jacobs satin bra, slip silk blouse, and ruffled bloomer shorts. Into the oven Lady Gaga dons Marc Jacobs' bonded lame belted jacket and Nina Ricci booties. The wigs she wears were created by Julien D'Ys.

You can watch a behind the scenes video of the shoot here. To see more images of the click here.

It's been a bit...

2009-11-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

So I've been a bit absent lately due to many exciting and exhausting things. My first solo show has come and gone, and I have moved. So you can see why the blog has suffered.

So let's begin again with a bit of fun!

What's more fun than Halloween?

With a grand new space to show art we decided to host a halloween par tay at U.turn. We created a forest of silver and black mylar balloons. The gallery was spooky, scary with a residue of fog hanging low to the floor. We even had a costume contest complete with a U.turn ghost trophy. The glitterati of Cincinnati showed us their finest.

This year I decided to go as Joan from Mad Men (this was more or less an excuse to buy a new dress).

I began a few weeks ago to scour Etsy for the perfect 1960's wiggle dress and I finally found this amazing floral number from the lovely Vera Vague. The dress has this bizarre little pleated apron/train attachment in the front that really added a nice detail to the whole look. After the dress I just had a few other details to iron out. Joan rules the office of Sterling Cooper while looking amazingly put together. I was able to find a pen necklace similar to the one she sports at the 1928 Jewelry Company.

Miss Rachael and Myself trying our best to personify Joan and Betty.

Another aspect of the costume I had quite a bit of fun with was the makeup. I'm not usually fond of lots of lipstick, but I thought for this once I shall go all out. I decided to venture to the mall (somewhere I don't normally go often) with my lovely dress in tow (to try and find a good red to complement the bluish tones of the fabric) I found myself in MAC at the mall and was there mainly to purchase some super black liquid eyeliner, but once the chic saleslady saw the dress she made it her mission to help find the right red. We ended up with the lipstick in Ruby Woo and a lip pencil in Redd. I had to practice with the eyeliner, but I think I might start using it on a daily basis.

Hair was another big aspect of this costume and I struggled for a while how to do this. In the end I opted for an updo to further reference Joan's office look. After several years of having short hair I will be growing my hair long for some upcoming projects, but in the mean time I had to find a way to work with what I've got. I found this absoulutely amazing how to video by the lovely Strawberry Koi. It was a bit complicated, but lots of hairspray, bobby pins, and a small bump it later I was quite pleased with the outcome.

And now for something completely different...

2009-10-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

Falling behind the fashion deluge....

2009-09-30T17:08:00.000-07:00

I have maybe three different posts in the works (about my recent solo show opening etc...) and I have fallen seriously behind in posting some faves from various fashion weeks. This post will cover some from London I failed to post in time and a bit from Milan. I want to be caught up for Paris or it will all be over. In other news I am also getting ready, along with four of the most amazing artists/people I know, for the grand opening of a new art space right here in Cincinnati. U⋅turn Art Space will have it's grand opening this Saturday (check back after that to see if I'm still standing).

On to the fashions...

1} Just Cavalli Spring 2010 RTW

These were a hard sell, but in the end the fringe won me over. Flapper meets cowgirl meets ripped jeans look.

2} Jonathan Saunders Spring 2010 RTW

The patterns on the front of these garments made me think of Transformers (not that I have actually seen these movies...). I am totally in love with the use of neon type colors in this collection, specifically on the toe beds of the shoes. They just glow.

3} Fendi Spring 2010 RTW

Gentle, slouchy, elegant....

It's London's turn...

2009-09-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

Somehow in the midst of this week I have found the time/sanity to put together a couple little posts in regards to the Spring RTW London style. So here it goes.

1}Burberry Prorsum Spring 2010 RTW.

I don't usually go for pastels, but these are just yummy, like little candies or whipped meringue. The color of the garment is offset for me by the lovely neutral tall sandals. The softness of the palette was challenged and enhanced by the presence of sculptural shoulders and leather and utility-like accessories. Seeing the classic trench coat make me want to pull mine out and flaunt it like Rick and Ilsa.

2}Pringle of Scotland

This Scottish house is mainly known for knitwear and I found the lace-like open garments to be quite interesting. Along with some slit looking dresses and shorts the designers presented some light funnel neck outerwear for those chilly spring days. Finely knit, the pieces exude a sort of smokey lightness. The firm has apparently tapped Tilda Swinton to star in a film with Ryan McGinley featuring a Scottish castle and evening gowns.

NY Fashion Week III

2009-09-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

This is my last little batch of favorites from New York Fashion Week...enjoy and look for London next week.

1} Calvin Klein Spring 2010 RTW.

These are so light and ephemeral. I especially love the ones with just one sleeve. A little puff. The first piece has this sort of cocoon thing going on. Asymmetry ahhhh.

2} ThreeasFour Spring 2010 RTW

Yoko Ono is so adorable. Her soon to be released Plastic Ono Band album provided the music for this playful, subtle collection. The first model is carrying two pairs of shears in homage to Ono's famous performance, Cut Piece. Freshman year of college I referenced this piece when I allowed my Creative Processes class to cut my hair with no direction from me as to how it should look. I love the ongoing dialogue between art and fashion...le sigh.

School is in...

2009-09-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

NYC Fashion Week Spring 2010 RTW pt. II

2009-09-18T06:24:00.000-07:00

1} L'Wren Scott Spring 2010 RTW.

The collection is called Madame Du Barry, a choice I thought interesting. Du Barry, Louis XV mistress is said to have been an early champion of the color pink , according to the designer. I really am loving the sort of dusty roses of the dresses and the make up. I also like the sort of piles of hair the models are sporting.

2}Isaac Mizrahi Spring 2010 RTW

Love the boater hats (not nearly as much as Marc Jacobs interpretation, but still), and these strange plasic? archery - like bits of armor the models are wearing. I also enjoy the short tulip skirts/cinched waist combo.

3} Phi Spring 2010 RTW.

Mainly I like these for the booties and the blazer jackets. I want long messy hair NOW.

4} Marchesa Spring 2009 RTW

Tattoo like tights, too tall shoes, and powder blue draps...gasp.

NY Fashion Week...Spring 2010 RTW

2009-09-17T16:51:00.001-07:00

This has been one busy week thus far. I tried to take a break from all the planning, freaking, etc. and puruse the lates Spring RTW lines that have debuted this week. I haven't made much of a dent yet, but thought I'd go ahead and share some of my faves so far.

1} Vera Wang Spring 2010 RTW.

2} Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2010 RTW.

3}Oscar de le Renta Spring 2010 RTW.

More to come...