Haskins Takes Miami

A private charity event with cocktails & silent auction

The stars aligned on Thursday, December 6th at an exciting event featuring the vintage fashion photography of Sam Haskins.  Hosts Adam Smith, CEO of V&M, Adrian Grenier and Peter Glatzer Co-Founders of  SHFT, and Nevena Borissova, Owner of Curve Boutiques in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Miami Beach welcomed over one hundred international guests.    Ludwig Haskins, son of the late photographer, flew in from London to attend, carrying on the plane four of the most precious works of his father from the 1967 series “November Girl.”

Guests arriving at the Perry Hotel were treated to an amazing experience- a vintage white Rolls Royce photo op and a red carpet greeting.  After their photo op, guests were ushered by lovely, “black&white clad” hostesses to the VIP-only entrance of the boutique.  The ever-elegant Curve boutique was transformed into a sophisticated and sexy backdrop for the vintage black and white fashion photography of Sam Haskins.  Matching the theme of 1960’s avant-garde fashion photography of Sam Haskins, a custom “007  Collins” cocktail was provided by Grey Goose.

Lively music, art, fashion and beautiful décor created a frame for the beautiful space under the stars of South Beach.  Guests mingled and appreciated the art, the fashion and the warm ambiance.  Art and fashion were infused throughout the evening- creating a total look of sophistication and beauty.

The connection between V&M and SHFT was a dynamic aspect of the event.  V&M (Vintage and Modern), the leading online source for unique vintage furniture, antiques, art, jewelry, fashion and design from around the world, regularly partners with “Connoisseurs”- design icons and influencers who promote and fund select charities through special curated sales on V&M.

Proceeds of the silent auction at the event provided funding for SHFT Mobile Kitchen Classroom, a new nonprofit organization that provides high school students with the opportunity to learn about food politics, food justice, nutrition, and to teach basic cooking skills to prepare healthy, affordable, and delicious meals.

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BACKGROUND

Founded in 2006, V&M (Vintage and Modern) is the leading online source for unique vintage furniture, antiques, art, jewelry, fashion and design from around the world. Dedicated to offering a high quality and unique shopping experience, V&M gives the trade and savvy public insider access to some of the best shopping on the web.

The V&M team, like its clientele, is passionate about design. They provide members the ultimate destination for discovering unique and original pieces as well as inspire and educate with innovative editorial content, including: industry news, interviews with top tastemakers, trend spotting, and exclusive curated columns.

One of the integral aspects of V&M is their “Connoisseurs”- design icons and influencers who promote and fund select charities through special curated sales on V&M.

One of the integral aspects of V&M is their “Connoisseurs”- design icons and influencers who promote and fund select charities through special curated sales on V&M.

The net proceeds of our silent auction next week will benefit SHFT Mobile Kitchen Classroom, a new nonprofit organization that provides high school students with the opportunity to learn about food politics, food justice, nutrition, and to teach basic cooking skills to prepare healthy, affordable, and delicious meals.  The nonprofit organization is the first charitable effort of SHFT.com, a multi-media platform founded by film producer Peter Glatzer and actor-filmmaker Adrian Grenier. Their mission is to convey a more sustainable approach to the way we live through film, design, art and culture.

Curate your life.™

Describing Labor

Describing Labor is a thought-provoking, emotionally-charged art exhibition commissioned by The Wolfsonian-Florida International University in Miami Beach Florida, created by artist Esther Shalev-Gerz.

Occupying the entire seventh floor of the museum, the project actually begins in the elevator; with the background voice of museum founder Mitchell Wolfson contributing to the experience of “describing labor.”

The exhibition is brilliantly constructed, creating direct and relevant contemporary content that links to the heritage of the museum as well as to the historical place of manual labor around the globe- from the period of 1885 to 1945.

Shalev-Gerz theorizes that this period of time, roughly beginning with the industrial revolution and ending after the Second World War, was the last time that laborers were conveyed and depicted as prominent subjects of art, and with the emotion of “heroism.”

At the core of the exhibition are art objects relating to the figure of laborers during that stretch of time.  Approximately forty pieces of art –ranging from paintings and prints to sculptures and photographs (mostly belonging to the private collection of the Wolfsonian), were carefully selected by Shalev-Gerz as the integral layer for the exhibition.  She then recruited twenty-four people from the art industry as participants.  These artists, curators and professors were each asked to choose one of the pieces, based on their personal connection and artistic bias.

Subsequently, the participants were asked to locate a place to photograph their selection within the massive archives of the museum, which stores over 100,000 objects.  The final photograph of each art work renders each piece indelibly connected to its surrounding framework, and to its unique curator- creating a link of the historical art work and depiction of labor with the present.  These twenty-four photographs, shot with depth and detail, in predominantly dark setting, create the next layer of the exhibition.  The individual works are also presented as an ensemble, on one wall within the museum. The contrast between the framed images in a free-form collage displayed a stark white wall and each image ensconced in a powerful photographic dark frame is one of the brilliant aspects of the exhibition.

As alluded to in the title of the exhibition, the project contains layers and subtle messages formatting the depiction of the theme.  Each of the twenty four participants is individually interviewed and discusses the theme of labor as well as the reason for the selection of their piece.  The interviews are shot at close range with a black background, and run in a video loop side-by-side with another image scanning in detail their individually selected work of art.  The juxtaposition of the voice and expression of the individual participant with the intentionally discordant view of the art work perhaps reiterates the idea that “describing labor” is not merely a simple answer derived from the presence of its objects.

Each resulting tableau depicts an entire story about the participants’ interpretation of the theme – choosing different aspects and emotions connected to labor.  Social injustice and disparity, subjugation, heroism, monotony, stoicism, solemnity, power and strength are just some of the emotions evoked in the exhibition.  The observer may reflect on how and why the concept and practice of labor have shifted so dramatically over time.  A Shalev-Gerz points out, we are now visually flooded with the faces of politicians, celebrities and athletes, but the visualization of those who create objects has all but disappeared from art and from prominent media.

Museum Director, Cathy Leff muses, “Describing Labor insists that the luster of things does not lie hidden beneath the patina of time; rather, the patina itself holds latent meanings awaiting activation.”

The relationship between words and images is integral to the exhibition.  In discussing the work with assistant curator Matthew Abbess, he draws attention to the concept of art “speaking to us.”  How and why different people see art in a certain light, and respond viscerally from their own experiences and historical perspective is often what connects us to history, or a physical object or image.

Describing Labor shares with the viewers a panoply of ideas, strong visual images, and with intellectual stimulation and exploration of the theme of labor, it challenges the audience to consider the changing role and voice of labor over time, and how people today relate to the past.

The exhibition which debuted during the week of Art Basel Miami Beach on December 3, 2012 will remain open to the public through April 7, 2013.

A Private View of Art in Miami

www.artsconcierge.net

BTA Billy the Artist live at Scope 2011

Internationally known for its beaches and nightlife, Miami also has a burgeoning and exciting arts and culture scene.  Art Concierge is dedicated to exploring this shining facet of Miami, and sharing ideas with those who may not have all of the knowledge or guidance they need.  For residents and visitors alike who are curious about what’s happening in the art scene in Miami, or those who may be interested in viewing or purchasing, Art Concierge is a vital resource for the best art and culture in Miami.

Because the area is so dynamic and diverse, it can be difficult to navigate.  It is also challenging to grasp the nuances between the various art and culture venues and events.  Art Concierge helps you decide where to go and what to do!

The Art Concierge website is predominantly focused on visual arts, and explores the top spots of Miami and Miami Beach.  The categories included are: public art; galleries; museums and private collections; art fairs.  Included are the incredible public art installations interwoven throughout Miami Beach, highlighting the program developed and run by the City.  In the section on museums and collections, the viewers will enjoy some of the best art that is “not for sale.”  In addition to wonderful museums, with their vast array of art, Miami has a number of dedicated private collectors who open their collections to the public.  Galleries and art fairs offer the public a view of art “for sale.”  All of the locations and events featured in Art Concierge exemplify the pulse of the art world, and each one is selected for its importance.

Additional content is provided for equally exciting and essential aspects of culture… performing arts; fashion and design; as well as some great restaurants and hotels to enjoy in the area.

Regularly collaborating with the owners, directors and marketing teams of the various organizations featured on our site, Art Concierge endeavors to provide one consolidated resource for the best information about the top cultural destinations in Miami- including the crown jewels of our community- Bass Museum of Art, Miami Art Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, The Wolfsonian-FIU, New World Symphony, Miami City Ballet, Florida Grand Opera, Miami Theater Company.

Each month, the website will feature some of the most exciting openings and events – so make sure to visit the site often and sign up for the mailing list!

In addition to the information provided in the curated website, local residents and travelers have access to Art Concierge art services and consulting.  Clients are assisted with purchasing of art- whether for personal enjoyment or investing.  There is also a service to direct and escort clients to the top galleries, museums and private collections for a unique point of view about culture in Miami- available in English, Spanish and French. 

We hope that you will enjoy the art of Miami as much as possible, and look forward to sharing the experience together.

Thank you!

Judy Holm, Founder and Chief Editor

BTA Billy the Artist live at Scope 2011

June 2, 2012

Judy Holm, Vice-Chair, and the entire Arts and Culture Council were proud to be an integral part of the program planning for the Annual Gala held last Saturday.  We thank Gala Chair Aaron Perry and the Gala Committee for including us in this exciting process.  Incorporating a multitude of cultural elements as a backdrop to the awards celebration, we orchestrated a number of exciting and alluring artistic jewels not only to entertain the guests, but to highlight the caliber of arts and culture in Miami Beach.  It was our desire to honor the award recipients and celebrate their individual contributions to the community through carefully selected and choreographed works of art in many forms, ranging from the invitation design and the awards creation, to visual arts, music and dance.

A Commemorative Gift

Gala invitees received a commemorative print, gift representing the 90^th Annual Dinner Gala and its theme, “Celebrating Success.” This limited series of prints was designed by celebrated local artist Mark T. Smith, from the original 48” x 48” work of art- a gift to the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds of the sale of the painting will be used to fund the Chamber’s Miami Beach Education Foundation, a 501c3 dedicated to bringing together the strengths and resources of the community to support the needs of public education in Miami Beach by way of financing scholarships, school programming and in particular the International Baccalaureate program.

A Musical Grand Entrance and Visual Delights

On the evening of June 2, 2012, the sold-out gala hosted 1,200 guests who were treated to a variety of musical interludes.  Welcoming guests on the red carpet entrance was one of the most-anticipated musical components- the FIU Jazz Ensemble.  We are so appreciative of Our Arts and Culture Council Chair, Dean of the FIU College of Architecture + the Arts, Brian Schriner for arranging this musical contribution.  Music set the tone for the evening, with an upbeat and sophisticated style.

During the cocktail hour, the main focus was the silent auction, and mingling with other guests.  With the black-tie optional dress code, there were many creative fashion statements made by the guests.  Dare we say “eye candy?”  And of course, accessories are an important part of every fashion statement.  The jewels, shoes and evening bags added much sparkle and dazzle in the night.

There were several surprise performances that were revealed throughout the evening, from the marching band of Miami Beach High, whose members paraded through the crowd and led us in to dinner, to the fantastic and spirited cheerleaders who added to the high-energy and fun of the evening’s festivities.

The dinner portion of the Gala was infused with creative installations of art from the Bass Museum, the Wolfsonian and from the Art in Public Places of Miami Beach.  Each visual masterpiece served as a reminder of the importance of art in our community, and to acknowledge the lifetime of civic contributions of our five honorees.

During the award ceremony, each honoree received a hand-crafted trophy designed by students from FIU College of Architecture + The Arts.  Our Arts and Culture Council Chair, Dean of the FIU College of Architecture + the Arts,  Brian Schriner and Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Art + Art History, Jacek J. Kolasiński worked closely with the students and alumni to create these personalized trophies.

Musical High Notes

One of the most exciting components of the evening is the performance by the New World Symphony, America’s Orchestral Academy.  A select group of musicians from the Symphony created an indelible memory of the evening, playing a customized classical musical selection for the Gala, Mozart’s Serenata Notturna, or “evening serenade”- a perfect tribute to the guests and honorees!  This unique cultural institution has proudly supported and saluted local businesses for twenty-five years, and is pleased to celebrate the vibrant business community and leaders on this occasion.  Our Arts and Culture Council member and Assistant Vice President, Development of the New World Symphony, Stacey Glassman Mizener, has been actively involved in not only the performance prepared by the New World Symphony, but in all of the artistic elements of the evening’s program.

Dance the Night Away

What is a Gala without dancing? After dinner and the awards ceremony, the guests moved into the more informal portion of the evening- and danced the night away in the post-dinner lounge sponsored by our generous sponsor, City National Bank.  The lounge was complete with a cigar bar and copious desserts, with a multitude of performance acts by some amazingly talented dancers.

The Brightest Spotlights – Our Honorees

With arts and cultural elements shining in the background, we wish to point the biggest and brightest spotlights on the five exceptional honorees.  We thank them for their outstanding contributions to the community, and congratulate them on their well-deserved awards.

The 2012 Gala celebrated ninety years of history of the Chamber of Commerce as it honored five individuals who have created success in their own lives and for our community.

STEVEN D. SONENREICH, President & CEO, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Citizen of the Year Award

GARY R. GERSON, Founding Partner, Gerson, Preston, Robinson and Co., PA, City National Bank Hi-Tides Outstanding Achievement Award

DR. ROSANN SIDENER, Principal, Miami Beach Senior High School, Distinguished Service Award

JOSE ABREU, Director of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, Excellence in Tourism Award

TONY GOLDMAN, Chairman, The Goldman Properties Company, Lifetime Achievement Award

Founder, ASPIRATIONS

Partner, Blue Marlin Public Relations and Communications

Ms. Holm has extensive experience in many arenas of public relations, marketing, events and social media- ranging from lifestyle (including arts, performing arts, beauty, fashion, wine, food, travel and entertainment) and personal PR for high net worth individuals, to financial services, nonprofit organizations and startups.  Her network and media reach are global. In addition to San Francisco roots, she has worked throughout Europe, NYC, Miami and Los Angeles.

Classically trained in strategy, consulting, public relations and marketing, Judy is versatile in various industries, ranging from financial and beauty companies to wineries and nonprofit organizations. Her creative approach to marketing and public relations translates to improving clients’ corporate image, brand awareness, customer loyalty and exceptional financial results.

With twenty years international and bi-coastal experience, she has contributed to the success of some major brands, including Ferrari, Maserati, L’Oreal, Matrix, Estee Lauder-Bumble and bumble, La Mer, Avon, Sally Hansen, Lynmar Estate Winery, Citibank, Wells Fargo and Charles Schwab & Co. She also has the “California” experience of start-up companies and works pro bono with several nonprofit organizations – Edgewood Center for Children and Families, San Francisco Ballet, San Francisco Zoo.

Ms. Holm received bachelors degrees in Economics and French from U.C. Berkeley, and an MBA from l’Ecole Superieure de Commerce de Paris.

COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA EXPERIENCE

Continuous and extensive research, with lifestyle marketing and social media corporate trends

CORPORATE EXPERIENCE

Create, lead and manage large brands and marketing departments: complete P&L responsibility (brands exceeding $200 million sales/$10 million marketing budgets), innovative PR strategies, ROI-driven events and sponsorships

NONPROFIT EXPERIENCE and PERSONAL PHILANTHROPY

Dedicated to community service and charity: discounts and bro bono support via public relations, marketing, fundraising, board membership, corporate partnerships and events

Arts and Culture: Vice-Chair Arts and Culture Council, Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce; Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco, San Francisco Ballet Auxiliary, Tahoe International Film Festival, International Museum of Women, Headlands Center for the Arts; MOMA; Fine Arts Museums (FAM); French Historical Society

Conservation: Humane Society, SPCA, San Francisco Zoo Auxiliary Board, Word Wildlife Fund (WWF), Nature Conservancy

Humanitarian and Health Causes: American Red Cross, Edgewood Center for Children and Families, Fritz Institute, Breast Cancer Awareness/Prevention and Emergency Fund, The Associates/ St. Francis Hospital

Temi Adamolekun

A law grad who chose a more creative path in life, PR.
Temi’s path has taken her on a journey with Conde Nast, the Marco Pierre White Group, Bryant Park Hotel and a roster of high end lifestyle brands. Inspired by her love of fabulous handbags, she started her accessory brand 5 years ago, Tiger Tem.
Tiger Tem has been featured in Vogue and the Financial Times amongst numerous other publications and is stocked in a select number of retailers internationally.
A chance meeting lead to a weekly fashion spread, which was maintained for 4 years which she turned into her blog www.tigertem.com.
Temi has been growing as a freelance writer and has written for a number of international publications such as Time Out, This Day, The Guardian, Sofisticati, Living Well Magazine, Eluxury as writing copy for fabulous companies.
With her love of all things sparkly, Temi decided to study gemmology at GIA last year. A choice which opened the doors to a positions with the London Jewellery Week team, the British Jewellery Week team and the as part of the event team for the prestigious annual Goldsmiths Fair.

Paola Balli

After obtaining a degree in Public Relations in Milan, Paola worked at Porsche for ten years in marketing and communications. During her tenure with Porsche, she acquired an extensive knowledge of the luxury market, and of high net worth individuals. She was responsible for planning events, managing budgets and creating partnerships.  Throughout this period, she had continuous communication and involvement with major Italian and international brands, as well as high profile customers.

With strong communications and customer relationship skills, she has built a broad network.

Ms. Balli strongly believes in networking and connecting people from different fields. Focusing on these values, she is now committed to new projects in the world of art and culture.

Federica Grazia Bartolini

Federica is the founder, editor, designer of BestMilano.net, a private community of people from Milan (Italy)
The website counted more than 200 active members in 2008, and during the following years it has been source of inspiration for many events called “BestMilano.net Parties”.
Thanks to her creativity Federica got in touch with the most important PR from Milan, who seeked her cooperation to invent and manage Club parties in the most fashionable locations of Milan.
Federica believes in the strenght and potentialities of the internet, and loves to experiment with it, that’s why in her PR and advertising work she has always successfully included the use of social networking websites and the internet in general.
Addicted to marketing, web-marketing and business issues, after a year of engineering studies, Federica realized that her way was that of business and marketing so, finally, she graduated in business management at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore of Milan.
Curious and willing to learn from every experience she has cooperated as a promoter, model, and interpreter in the most remarkable exhibitions and events in Milan. Passion for travelling, art, fashion and beauty complete her profile.

Gaelle M. Gouraige

Originally from Miami, Florida, Gaelle is currently an international MBA student in Milan, Italy concentrating in Design & Luxury Management. Having previously worked in the Marketing and Public Relations department at MIAMI Magazine (a regional publication produced by Modern Luxury), she has had professional experience working in the realm of luxury lifestyle. Her primary interests and focuses include fashion and brand management. She has had experience managing website content and event planning.
Gaelle has worked with Miami based hotels and restaurants such as the W Hotel, the Besty Hotel, Segafredo in Brickell, the Gansevoort, and the Epic. She has also worked on events for Art Basel, Super Bowl XLIV, as well as fashion shows featuring the designs of Betsy Johnson and Eli Tahari.
In university, Gaelle acted as chief head of PR/Marketing for a numerous amount of theatrical productions, such as West Side Story, Closer, Death of an Anarchist. She was also executive producer for many shows as well—i.e Titus Andronicus, Julius Caesar, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, etc. Using these positions to enact hands on educational to public relations and marketing, Gaelle was able to bring her team (the production crew) together to find new and innovative marketing tools that led to sold out performances. She was also president of the Underground Shakespeare Club.
Internationally minded, Gaelle has lived not only in the United States, but also in Spain and presently in Italy. She splits her time between Milan, Miami, and Paris and is of French and Haitian descent. She speaks French, English, and Spanish fluently and is moderate in both German and Italian.
Gaelle Gouraige holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania in Political Science with a minor in History. She is currently an MBA candidate at MIP Politecnico di Milano with an expected graduation date of June 2011.

Ilaria Locatelli

Mrs. Locatelli has a good experience in public relations, exibitions and event’s organization (including arts and fashion) even she is only 23 years old.
Mrs. Locatelli recently received bachelor’s degrees in Italian Literature and Filology from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan. During her undergraduated period she studied Arts an Fashion which are the most important “fil rouge” in her career.
In the arena of Art she worked as personal assistant in one of the most important Free Art Gallery in Milan, Spazio Taccori. She wrote press releases, reviews, newsletter, she is the responsible for the relationship between gallery and artists and for Website and updates.
She collaborated as intern in AREF -Association Emilio Rizzi and GioBatta Ferrari-, an Artistical and Cultural Association in Brescia, which offers some different artistical services like the organization of exibition, events, meeting, and writing artists catalogue.
She was responsible for sales and customer relationships for Chiara Spagnoli, a talented young artist who works beetween Milan and Rome.
In the arena of Fashion Mrs. Locatelli collaborated in organizing Guest Lists for man and woman fashion shows Milano and Events at Blumarine, Blugirl, Prada, Giorgio Armani, Salvatore Ferragamo, Emilio Pucci, Louis Vuitton. Thanks her great adaptability to multi-cultural environments, different situations and roles, she actually works also in close collaboration with some important Clubs in Milan throught the organization and promotion of public charity events, private parties and theme parties.

Maria Sofia Negri

Maria Sofia Negri graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Foreign Languages and Literature (focused on English and Spanish) from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan. She has since gained an impressive employment history of more than five years experience within the fields of communications, public relations, event management and press.
She started working for several PR agencies in Milan conducting various different roles including promotion and advertisement assistant, event manager, press office executive, web sites coordinator, studio manager and personal assistant.
Her latest example of professional experience was that of Migliore+Servetto Associated Architects – an international architecture firm and was primarily focused on exhibition design, architecture and communication.
Within Migliore+Servetto she was responsible for communication and media relations, working for some of the most renowned international brands in fashion, design, publishing and manufacturing, as well as for museums and institutions. Examples of the companies she has worked with include: Bticino Group, Technogym, FIAT, The New York Times Style Magazine, Max Mara, Wallpaper* Magazine UK, Tod’s, Foscarini, Fryderyk Chopin Museum in Warsaw and Bulgari Hotel.

Kirsten Owens

Kirsten is the founder and editor of TravelingFashionista.com , a blog dedicated to travel-infused fashion. As such, Kirsten demonstrates a wealth of knowledge about the lifestyle industry. Showcasing current trends and providing product reviews and recommendations, Kirsten collaborates with high-quality brands such as J Brand, Anlo, Palladium, Schick, L’Bel, Harper/Collins, Red Engine Jeans, Luxe City Guides, and Tsubo, among others. She also provides in depth travel reviews for both large resorts and hotel properties as well as smaller boutique hotels and inns. Her freelance writing has been featured in a variety of other fashion, beauty, and travel websites
Kirsten possesses a strong technical background and aside from her own website, has been hired to design and update numerous websites for other companies across a variety of industries. Her creative abilities in concert with her analytical skills are assets in her design and creation of marketing materials and media kits, in addition to other forms of written collateral.
Kirsten also has extensive experience with event planning, and has coordinated events for both large and small scale audiences. A natural leader, she is adept at project management, utilizing her detail-oriented nature and organizational skills.
Aside from her love of fashion and travel, Kirsten has a passion for communication and public relations. Known for being genuine and articulate, she has effectively established and maintained relationships across a wide variety of media and industry contacts. She often serves as the main source of contact and is an effective liaison between the press, community, and companies she supports.
Kirsten believes all companies should establish a strong social media presence, and currently offers strategies, support and guidance for companies looking to include social media in their marketing efforts. She works with companies experiencing growth and/or want to improve their networking, branding and outreach.
Giving back to her own community, Kirsten served as the Internet Chair for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event in San Francisco this year. Collectively their team raised over $72,000 in the fight against cancer.
Kirsten holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Psychology, allowing her to bring a thorough understanding of communications and business operations, enhancing all projects she is a part of.

Lily Okorokwo (Venice  Italy/Nigeria )

I am currently studying business administration in Venice, with plans to transfer to London, with an immense interest in the creative and business industries, specifically the arts and fashion design. These interests were first nurtured when I came to Venice to study Italian.  Subsequently, I was influenced by working as an art exhibition manager for “Venice in Venice”, a retrospective curated by Tim Nye and Jacqueline Miro on California artists’ works of 1960s and 1970s during the 54^th Venice Art Biennale 2011.  I am also honing my interest in art and fashion with my work as an international trend hunter for a London-based marketing and strategy agency, The Lounge Group.

My passion for the creativity has led me to launch my own website- Glowingcolours.com, a platform  aimed at offering  a unique perspective of creativity-related subjects, and creating a greater interest in up and coming artists in the art  circuit. I also contribute with articles on fashion style and art subject for a Nigerian  based magazine, Ebiz magazine, where I deploy news on ongoing events focused on promoting African culture and on artists that are impacting positively all over the world.

Networking and communication are highly important to me and to the sector in which I aspire to develop in the future.  Thanks to my knowledge of English, Italian, Spanish, German and my Nigerian language Igbo, I’m able to  communicate with different people from many different parts of the world and obviously engage myself in productive conversations. I also practice my promotion and management skills by running my own website diligently and assisting my mother’s NGO, New Image, by promoting it. Most of all, I am dedicated to my education, passions(marketing, fashion, design, travel and art) and whatever that can contribute to my growth and progress professionally.

The Arts and Culture Council is proud to be an integral part of the program planning for the upcoming Annual Gala.  We thank Gala Chair Aaron Perry and the Gala Committee for including us in this exciting process.  Incorporating a multitude of cultural elements as a backdrop to the awards celebration, we will orchestrate a number of exciting and alluring artistic jewels not only to entertain the guests, but to highlight the caliber of arts and culture in Miami Beach.  We wish to honor the award recipients and celebrate their individual contributions to the community through carefully selected and choreographed works of art in many forms, ranging from the invitation design and the awards creation, to visual arts, music and dance.

A Commemorative Gift

Gala invitees received a commemorative print, gift representing the 90^th Annual Dinner Gala and its theme, “Celebrating Success.” This limited series of prints was designed by celebrated local artist Mark T. Smith, from the original 48” x 48” work of art- a gift to the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds of the sale of the painting will be used to fund the Chamber’s Miami Beach Education Foundation, a 501c3 dedicated to bringing together the strengths and resources of the community to support the needs of public education in Miami Beach by way of financing scholarships, school programming and in particular the International Baccalaureate program.

A Musical Grand Entrance and Visual Delights

On the evening of June 2, 2012, guests will enjoy many musical interludes.  One of the most-anticipated musical components will be the FIU Jazz Ensemble.  We are so appreciative of Our Arts and Culture Council Chair, Dean of the FIU College of Architecture + the Arts, Brian Schriner for this musical contribution.  Music will set the tone for the evening, with an upbeat and sophisticated style.

During the cocktail hour, the main focus will be the silent auction, and mingling with other guests.  With a black-tie optional dress code, there is bound to be a high-fashion cultural component to enjoy.  Dare we say “eye candy?”  And of course, accessories are an important part of every fashion statement.  The jewels, shoes and evening bags will add to the dazzle of the crowd.

There are several surprise performances that will be revealed throughout the evening, and the dinner portion of the Gala will be infused with creative installations of art from the Bass Museum, the Wolfsonian and from the Art in Public Places of Miami Beach.  Each visual masterpiece will serve as a reminder of the importance of art in our community, and to acknowledge the lifetime of civic contributions of our five honorees.

During the award ceremony, each honoree will receive a hand-crafted trophy designed by students from FIU College of Architecture + The Arts.  Our Arts and Culture Council Chair, Dean of the FIU College of Architecture + the Arts,  Brian Schriner and Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Art + Art History, Jacek J. Kolasiński have worked closely with the students and alumni to create these personalized trophies.

Musical High Notes

One of the most exciting components of the evening is the performance by the New World Symphony, America’s Orchestral Academy.  A select group of musicians from the Symphony will create an indelible memory of the evening, playing a customized classical musical selection for the Gala, Mozart’s Serenata Notturna, or “evening serenade”- a perfect tribute to the guests and honorees!  This unique cultural institution has proudly supported and saluted local businesses for twenty-five years, and is pleased to celebrate the vibrant business community and leaders on this occasion.  Our Arts and Culture Council member and Assistant Vice President, Development of the New World Symphony, Stacey Glassman Mizener, has been actively involved in not only the performance prepared by the New World Symphony, but in all of the artistic elements of the evening’s program.

Dance the Night Away

What is a Gala without dancing? Guests will be riveted by a sizzling performance by the Miami Contemporary Dance Company.  We are grateful for the wonderful collaboration with this premier dance company, and its Founding Artistic Director, Ray Sullivan.

Not only will we have the opportunity to watch some of the finest dancers in Miami Beach, but the dance vibes will also get us ready to dance the night away in the post-dinner lounge sponsored by our generous sponsor, City National Bank.

From all accounts of last year’s Gala, everyone who stayed to enjoy the dessert and dancing had a wonderful time.  This year, we have added yet another exciting musical component… sshhhh it’s a surprise.

The Brightest Spotlights – Our Honorees

With arts and cultural elements shining in the background, we wish to point the biggest and brightest spotlights on the five exceptional honorees.  We thank them for their outstanding contributions to the community, and congratulate them on their well-deserved awards.

The 2012 Gala celebrates ninety years of history of the Chamber of Commerce as it honors five individuals who have created success in their own lives and for our community.

STEVEN D. SONENREICH, President & CEO, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Citizen of the Year Award

GARY R. GERSON, Founding Partner, Gerson, Preston, Robinson and Co., PA, City National Bank Hi-Tides Outstanding Achievement Award

DR. ROSANN SIDENER, Principal, Miami Beach Senior High School, Distinguished Service Award

JOSE ABREU, Director of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, Excellence in Tourism Award

TONY GOLDMAN, Chairman, The Goldman Properties Company, Lifetime Achievement Award

OPENING soon in VENICE!  August 2012 the new permanent Rooms for Glass (Le Stanze del Vetro) exhibition space will be inaugurated with the show Carlo Scarpa. Venini 1932 – 1947

On 29th August 2012 the exhibition Carlo Scarpa. Venini 1932 – 1947, curated by Marino Barovier, will open on the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice. The exhibition of over 300 works will reconstruct Carlo Scarpa’s creative development as artistic director of the Venini Glassworks from 1932 to 1947. Due to run until 29 November 2012, the Scarpa exhibition is the first public event of the Rooms for Glass (Le Stanze del Vetro), a long-term cultural project launched by the Giorgio Cini Foundation in collaboration with Pentagram Stiftung for the purpose of studying and showcasing the art of Venetian glassmaking in the 20th century.

The opening of the exhibition Carlo Scarpa. Venini 1932 – 1947 will mark the inauguration of a new permanent exhibition space designed to host a series of solo and group shows featuring international artists, both contemporary and historical, who have used glass during their careers as an orginal means of expression and medium for researching their own personal aesthetics. The aim is to illustrate the numerous potential uses of the medium and put glass back at the centre of attention and discussion on the international art scene.

The building chosen for the Rooms for Glass exhibition is the left wing of the ex-Convitto (a former boarding school) on the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore. With 650 square metres of exhibition space, the exhibition centre will not only host exhibitions but also conferences, workshops and other events dedicated to glass.

The renovation of this long-unutilised building was designed by Selldorf Architects, a New York firm led by Annabelle Selldorf, that specialises in the design of museums, galleries and other art-related spaces. Previous projects by Selldorf Architects include: the Neue Galerie, New York; the David Zwirner Gallery in Chelsea, New York; the Hauser & Wirth Gallery, London, New York and Zurich; and exhibition designs for the London and New York venues of the Gagosian Gallery and the Gladstone Gallery. This fall the firm is designing the new Frieze Masters Art Fair in London. For the Venice project the New York firm collaborated with architects Fabrizio Cattaruzza and Francesco Millosevich, who in 2008 had refurbished the other exhibition spaces of the ex-Convitto in the Cini Foundation. The design includes a series of galleries, with custom designed vitrines, pedestals and other forms of display, to create a logical visual continuity within the space and the various exhibition levels.

This fabulous auction package is part of the 2012 Napa Valley Wine Auction- Chaired by the Chappellet Family

4 BOTTLES OF NAPA VALLEY WINE, AS NOTED
1 NIGHT’S ACCOMMODATIONS FOR 2 COUPLES IN NAPA VALLEY
DINNER IN NAPA VALLEY FOR UP TO 10
12-DAY AFRICAN SAFARI EXPEDITION FOR 4, AS NOTED

Begin with a dream and end with an extraordinary story. The Chappellet Family invites two couples to join them in exploring the wilds of Pritchard Hill and the wild game of the African bush. This expedition, led by renowned naturalist Michael Lorentz of Passage to Africa, will take you from the vines and boulders of Pritchard Hill and the comfort of the Auberge du Soleil to the rivers and grasslands of Southern Africa. Spend 12 days exploring Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands, Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls and the South Luangwa while staying at luxury bush camps, including Singita Sabi Sands.

Your adventure unfolds with a trip for 10 into the Pritchard Hill wilderness. You’ll enjoy a tour into 1,000 acres of undeveloped country to an authentic bush camp created by Safari West Wildlife Preserve for lunch prepared by chef Janelle Weaver. The rugged hills are home to foxes, coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, bald eagles, and the occasional black bear. Savor supper with the family and enjoy celebrated vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon including the 1969, 1975 and 2006.

Donn and Molly will share their most celebrated vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon including the 1969, 1975 and 2006. Two couples will retire for the evening at nearby Auberge du Soleil.

Cyril and Blakesley Chappellet will join you for an African adventure led by their friend Michael Lorentz. A native of South Africa, Lorentz was trained by the legendary tracker Jack Matabula. He will help you hear, see, touch and smell Africa in a way only a son of the Continent can.

Touchdown in Capetown for two nights at Cellars Hohenort: your home-base to explore Table Mountain, Cape Point and Robben Island. Then journey to the Cape Winelands and Le Quartier Francais for visits to wine farms including Vergelegen and Mulderbosch and a comparative tasting of the Cape’s Chenin Blanc that includes Chappellet’s Napa gem.

Your first bush experience is in Kruger National Park at Singita Sabi Sands. Ranked by Travel+Leisure as the #2 hotel in the world, this amazing two-lodge camp is surrounded by groves of trees and wildlife. Move on to Zambia and the Royal Chudu Lodge on the shores of the Zambezi to experience Victoria Falls from all angles. Venture into the Southern Luangwa to Chindeni Bushcamp, a sublime tented camp on the edge of a permanent lagoon where hippo chortle and elephant wallow. Your final stay is at Mfuwe Lodge where game viewing is second to none.

With visions of Africa etched in your mind, your cellar will hold two 3L bottles of Chappellet 2010 Pritchard Hill Estate Cabernet Sauvignon etched with sketches of African game created by Lygia Chappellet and two 3L bottles of the 2001 vintage.

*Safari must take place between February 2013 and May of 2013. Napa Valley experience to be scheduled at a mutually agreeable time. Does not include: international airfare, transportation within Africa, gratuities, visas or travel insurance.

CABERNET SAUVIGNON
PRITCHARD HILL ESTATE
NAPA VALLEY
2 X 3L 2001
2 X 3L 2010

So beautiful…. Centre Pompidou-Metz presents 1917, a multidisciplinary exhibition that investigates the fundamental question of artistic creation in wartime. Originating with Picasso’s creation of his largest work, the stage curtain for the ballet Parade, in 1917, the exhibition examines artistic production of that crucial year in light of historical facts and their impacts on the lives of the artists.

Alongside masters such as Brancusi, Dix, Duchamp, Kandinsky, Matisse, Monet, or Nevinson, were amateur artists who felt the need to respond to the trials of war through creative expression such as Trench art, examples of which are a high point of the exhibition. Equally important are the war artists who were sent to the front to record its events, and the many individuals who, as eyewitnesses, expressed their memory of the conflict for posterity.

From physical and psychological destruction and rebuilding through self-portraiture, to the confusion between gender, and the transformation associated with camouflage, two major figures arise: the Harlequin and the stage curtain for the ballet Parade, whose monumental format and remarkable presentation constitute the climax of the exhibition. This masterpiece by Picasso was last shown in 2004 in Hong Kong and is shown in France for the first time in over twenty years.

26 May 2012–24 September 2012

Centre Pompidou-Metz
1, parvis des Droits-de-l’Homme
CS 90490
57020 Metz Cedex 1
France

T +33 (0)3 87 15 39 39
contact@centrepompidou-metz.fr