LITERATURE - EXHIBITION

JIMMY! GOD’S BLACK REVOLUTIONARY MOUTH

James Baldwin, one of the most profound voices in literature and activism, is being celebrated by the New York Public Library on the 100th anniversary of his birth with two remarkable exhibitions. Both exhibitions honor Baldwin's extraordinary legacy and provide a unique opportunity to explore his enduring impact on literature, culture, and social justice.

James Baldwin: Mountain to Fire is located at the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, featured in The Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library’s Treasures. This exhibition presents an extraordinary glimpse into Baldwin's literary beginnings, showcasing never-before-exhibited manuscripts from iconic works such as Go Tell It on the Mountain, Giovanni’s Room, and The Fire Next Time. Visitors can delve into these treasures and discover the genius behind Baldwin’s words, which continue to inspire and challenge readers around the world.

Meanwhile, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture presents JIMMY! God’s Black Revolutionary Mouth, a deeply personal look at Baldwin’s life and legacy. This exhibition draws from Baldwin’s personal archives, highlighting pivotal moments from his childhood to his transformative role as a truth-teller and revolutionary thinker. Through Baldwin’s manuscripts, letters, and other artifacts, visitors can experience the passion, brilliance, and courage that defined his life and work.

Visiting these exhibitions is an opportunity to connect with James Baldwin's powerful legacy and explore the depth of his contributions to literature and activism.

The New York Public Library

ART + DESIGN - EXHIBITION

POLONSKY EXHIBITION OF THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY’S TREASURES

The Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library’s Treasures is an unforgettable journey through some of the most remarkable artistic, literary, and historical artifacts in human history. Surrounding the James Baldwin: Mountain to Fire display cases are extraordinary treasures that capture the breadth and depth of the Library’s collection, leaving visitors in awe.

Among the highlights, we marveled at promotional material from the original Broadway production of The Wiz, a vibrant reminder of the show’s groundbreaking impact. Nearby, an original drawing from John James Audubon’s Birds of America series (published between 1827 and 1838) took our breath away—its detail and beauty are absolutely stunning.

We were also captivated by a physical copy of the Green Book, an international travel guide that served as a lifeline for Black travelers during segregation, and a powerful 1958 photograph of LGBTQ+ activist Stormé DeLaverié, whose courage continues to inspire. Adding to this narrative of resilience and advocacy was a 1960s pamphlet by the Mattachine Society, one of the earliest organizations for gay rights.

On the artistic front, Jacob Lawrence’s 1938 painting Subway offered a poignant glimpse into urban life, while a Gutenberg Bible printed in 1455 stood as a testament to the revolutionary power of the printed word. We were also struck by the portrait of Mary Wollstonecraft, a pioneer of modern feminist thought, whose legacy continues to shape our understanding of gender equality.

This exhibition space is truly a treasure trove, brimming with items that reflect the richness of human creativity, perseverance, and innovation. Each piece tells a unique story, inviting visitors to connect with history in deeply personal and meaningful ways. It is a must-see for anyone who loves art, literature, or history—or simply seeks inspiration from the past to shape a better future.

The New York Public Library

LITERATURE - EXHIBITION

JAMES BALDWIN: MOUNTAIN TO FIRE

James Baldwin, one of the most profound voices in literature and activism, is being celebrated by the New York Public Library on the 100th anniversary of his birth with two remarkable exhibitions. Both exhibitions honor Baldwin's extraordinary legacy and provide a unique opportunity to explore his enduring impact on literature, culture, and social justice.

James Baldwin: Mountain to Fire is located at the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, featured in The Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library’s Treasures. This exhibition presents an extraordinary glimpse into Baldwin's literary beginnings, showcasing never-before-exhibited manuscripts from iconic works such as Go Tell It on the Mountain, Giovanni’s Room, and The Fire Next Time. Visitors can delve into these treasures and discover the genius behind Baldwin’s words, which continue to inspire and challenge readers around the world.

Meanwhile, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture presents JIMMY! God’s Black Revolutionary Mouth, a deeply personal look at Baldwin’s life and legacy. This exhibition draws from Baldwin’s personal archives, highlighting pivotal moments from his childhood to his transformative role as a truth-teller and revolutionary thinker. Through Baldwin’s manuscripts, letters, and other artifacts, visitors can experience the passion, brilliance, and courage that defined his life and work.

Visiting these exhibitions is an opportunity to connect with James Baldwin's powerful legacy and explore the depth of his contributions to literature and activism.

The New York Public Library

ART + DESIGN - EXHIBITION

SLEEPING BEAUTIES: REAWAKENING FASHION

In late spring, we had the chance to visit the Costume Institute's intriguing exhibition, Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Running from May 10 to September 2, 2024, this exhibit beautifully showcased the stories behind 220 garments and accessories from the last four centuries. By blending modern technology with traditional conservation techniques, it invited visitors to experience fashion in an entirely new way, engaging our senses and reviving the vibrancy of these pieces. From the scents of floral motifs to the tactile richness of embroidered walls, each aspect encouraged a deeper connection with the clothing beyond its display.

Join us as we share our experience through the photographs we took in our attempt to capture the essence of this remarkable exhibition.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

ART + DESIGN - EXHIBITION

ERNIE BARNES: IN RAPTURE

Ortuzar Projects and Andrew Kreps Gallery proudly present "Ernie Barnes: In Rapture," a comprehensive exhibition celebrating the late figurative painter Ernie Barnes. We invite you to explore this retrospective, which spans five decades of Barnes' work and highlights his unique "neo-mannerist" style through genre paintings of sports, dance, music, and everyday life. From his early sports paintings to his later cultural influence, the exhibition takes its title from Barnes' painting "In Rapture," featured on B.B. King's 2000 album cover. Barnes' art captures the fluidity and joy of human movement, drawing inspiration from Italian Mannerists and American masters such as Thomas Hart Benton and Norman Rockwell. Despite growing up in the segregated South, Barnes' passion for art was nurtured by his mother and further developed through his studies and athletic scholarship at North Carolina Central University.

Barnes' career began in professional football, but he soon transitioned to a full-time artist, frequently depicting dynamic sports scenes. His art evolved to embrace broader cultural themes, notably in his "The Beauty of the Ghetto" exhibition, which toured American cities in the 1970s and highlighted the vitality of mid-century Black southern life. This exhibition marked a pivotal moment, integrating his work into popular culture, including the CBS sitcom "Good Times." Barnes' later works continued to celebrate communal joy and individual passion, portraying scenes of music and dance that resonated deeply with audiences. His collaborations with musical artists further emphasized his ability to capture the spirit of Black culture through his vibrant, rhythmic paintings. The exhibition is on view through July 15.

Ortuzar Projects

ART + DESIGN - EXHIBITION

THE HARLEM RENAISSANCE & TRANSATLANTIC MODERNISM

We cordially extend our recommendation to explore "The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism" exhibition at the Met Fifth Avenue—it is truly remarkable! This exhibit showcases a rich variety of art forms, including paintings, photographs, sculptures, and more. Each piece's provenance, whether on loan from other institutions or from private collections, adds depth to the experience, fostering a profound appreciation for its assembly in a singular, elegant setting.

Of particular note is "Abdul Karim with a Green Scarf, 1916" by Edvard Munch, graciously loaned from the Munch Museum—a testament to the diverse array of artwork on display, some of which might otherwise remain undiscovered without venturing to Oslo or exploring tours of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which have generously contributed several works. The craftsmanship of Winold Reiss is also deserving of admiration; his portraits radiate dignity and warmth, each pastel stroke infused with beauty.

Additionally, we encourage visitors to explore "Women Dressing Women" at the Costume Institute (on view through March 10)—a brief yet captivating glimpse into the creative works of over seventy women's fashion designers. This exhibition provides a fitting complement to the enriching experience of "The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism" (on view through July 28).

Metropolitan Museum of Art

ART + DESIGN - FASHION

His clothes, said Valerie Steele, director of the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, “were fierce, with a power that was both militaristic and highly eroticized.” She added: “It was not the American power look of the shoulder-padded executive. His was a different kind of working woman.”

Designer: Claude Montana (French, Paris 1947 - 2024 Paris)
Article: Green, Penelope. “Claude Montana, Fashion Designer Whose Look Defined the ’80s, Dies at 76.”
Source: nytimes.com

ART + DESIGN - INTERIORS

Photograph by: Thomas Loof
Article: Barbour, Celia. “The Art Collection in This Masterfully Composed Park Avenue Apartment Rivals Any Gallery.”
Source: Veranda

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: [ Miuccia Prada, Italian Fashion Designer and Businesswoman, cover of Vogue, March 2024 ]
Photography by: Stef Mitchell
Article: Garelick, Rhonda. “At 74, Miuccia Prada Makes an Unexpected Vogue Cover Model.”
Source: Vogue

ART + DESIGN - INTERIORS

“Floral Bookshelf Finds: Talk about fun collectibles. These spirited Giuseppe Palermo sculptures, sitting atop the antique bronze mantel, make the room vibrate with vibrant energy in this charming Roman penthouse. The custom bookshelf surround, backed by a Romo floral wallcovering, makes for a studio that is not lacking in character or personality in the least. Note: We’re loving the asymmetrical book lineup, which gives a whole new meaning to the beauty of literature.”

Photograph by: Serena Eller Vainicher
Article: Silva, Rachel. “How to Nail the Bookshelf Wealth Look like an ELLE DECOR A-Lister.”
Source: elledecor.com

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: [ Iman Abdulmajid, Somali-American model and actress, advertisement for Saint Laurent / Rive Gauche, 1980 ]
Photographs by: Gian Paolo Barbieri and Claus Ohm
Medium: Print
Classification: Photograph

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: [ An evening ensemble modeled by Pay Cleveland made of silk chiffon and ostrich feathers by Italian designer Valentino Garavani, 1974-75 ]
Photograph by: Johnson Publishing Corporation LLC
Medium: Print
Classification: Photograph
Article: Salmi, Nicolette. “No One Walks the Walk Like Pat Cleveland.”
Source: lofficielusa.com

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: [ Diahann Caroll, American Actress and Singer, circa 1950s ]
Photograph by: Maurice Seymour (a/k/a Maurice Zeldman and Seymour Zeldman)
Medium: Print
Classification: Photograph
Article: Howard, Nandi. “Remember Her Legacy: 15 Of The Best Diahann Carroll Looks.”
Source: Essence

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: [ Nancy Wilson, American Jazz Singer, circa 1960s ]
Medium: Print
Classification: Photograph

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: [ Lee Radziwill, 1967 ]
Photograph by: Dennis Oulds / Getty Images
Medium: Print
Classification: Photography
Description: Princess Lee Radziwill (Lee Bouvier) sister of Jacqueline Kennedy in London's Savoy Hotel. She is in England to play the title role in a TV film, 'Laura' produced by David Susskind.
Source: Getty Images

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: [ Nancy “Slim” Keith, circa 1940s ]
Medium: Print
Classification: Photography
Source: Unknown

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: Babe Paley and William Paley outside of La Cote Basque, 1965
Credit: Fairchild Archive
Medium: Print
Classification: Photograph
Article: Prisant, Carol. “The Secret World of Babe Paley.”
Source: Town & Country

ART + DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Title: CZ Guest (1920-2003). Née Lucille Douglas Cochrane. American socialite, columnist and fashion designer. Photographed in 1937 wearing a Mainbocher dress.
Credit: Granger
Medium: Print
Classification: Photograph
Source: Granger Historical Picture Archive

ART + DESIGN - INTERIORS

Photography by: Lucas Allen
Article: Baring, Lucinda. “An elegant Chelsea townhouse revived with fresh character by d’Erlanger and Sloan.”
Source: House & Garden

ART + DESIGN - INTERIORS

Photography by: Brie Williams
Article: Hunt, Stephanie. “A Historic Charleston Residence Rediscovers Its Youth—and, Yes, It Still Has Swag-and-Tail Curtains.”
Source: Veranda