SRQ DAILY Feb 8, 2019
Friday Weekend Edition
"The younger generation do as you do, not as you say."
The setting: Post-WWII Germany. The conflict: The Cold War. In a world exhausted from open warfare and wary of a nuclear exchange, the American government turns to the covert—espionage and sabotage—and the overt—propaganda—as its means of engagement. While spies work their trade in secret, “American Houses” pop up throughout West Germany, sponsored by the US Government and openly promoting the material prosperity of the American capitalist way of life through traveling exhibitions. And in an exhibition opening last night at Center for Architecture Sarasota, elements from three such traveling shows unite to paint a picture of this society, as sold to the world.
Entitled A Designed Life: Contemporary American Textiles, Wallpapers, and Containers & Packaging, 1951–1954, the exhibition contains examples and artifacts—some recreations—from three historical exhibitions, each showcasing the mass-produced wonders that contemporary Americans supposedly were enjoying at the time. Accompanying videos and wall-mounted text provide additional context, artistic, historical and political, as do two short films—Me and Mr. Marshall and Marshall Plan at Work in Western Germany—looping in the adjoining room.
Contemporary American Textiles, originally designed by Florence Knoll (who passed January 25, 2019), comes alive in a walk-through installation, with the fabrics displayed in great panels that form a quick cul-de-sac through design of the time. A nearby table holds swatches of even more examples, which visitors can examine and touch and learn a bit more about. A few are even still available on the market. Compare with the neighboring display from Contemporary American Wallpapers, originally designed by Tom Lee, and revealing a dizzying time for design, full of busy patterns that almost presage the coming psychedelia. A wall-mounted array across the room gives audiences another interactive opportunity, almost like flipping through samples at a throwback hardware store. The final piece of the propagandist’s puzzle—Containers and Packaging by Will Burtin—comes as a photographic recreation of what would have been a full-on consumerist spectacle, showing off products from familiar names like Kleenex and Kotex, General Motors and Juicy Fruit, to bygone businesses like Thor Tools and FoMoCo.
“We are excited for our community to have access to both a historically and culturally significant exhibit,” says David Lowe, CFAS Board Chair. “The design dialogue intermixed with the historical and political significance brings a dynamic mix to the Center.”
Currently on display, A Designed Life runs through April 30. The exhibition is curated by Margaret Re and organized by the Center for Art, Design and Visual Culture, University of Maryland-Baltimore County. Re will lead a Gallery Walk on February 21 at 5:30pm. 
Pictured: "American Home Appliances" by Felix Muller, Studio Muller-Blase, 1952. Credit: Prints & Photographs Division, Library of Congress.
Though plenty consider Sarasota a paradise in itself, the staff at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has been hard at work creating a whole other natural nirvana in Gauguin: Voyage to Paradise, unveiling this Sunday. Following in the footsteps of 2016’s Marc Chagall, Flowers and the French Riviera and last year’s Warhol: Flowers in the Factory, the Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series continues with this celebration of the wandering post-impressionist painter, exhibiting rare works in the Payne Mansion and transforming the grounds into a Tahitian paradise such as inspired the work.
The makeover begins in the Conservatory, where visitors are greeted upon entry by a trio of dug-out canoes suspended from the ceiling and overflowing with vibrant vegetation. “We always want to epiphyte everything,” jokes Selby Gardens’ Angel Lara, part of the team that spent seven months planning the Conservatory exhibition, and then a whirlwind six days installing. The exhibition winds through the Conservatory pathways, over a bridge flanked by flower “torches” and Tahitian aromatics that immerse one in the smells as well as the sounds of Gauguin’s Polynesian paradise. “Everyone has to walk across the bridge to really experience it,” says Selby CEO Jennifer Rominiecki, and over the bridge and through the somewhat manicured tropical jungle lies a “fire pit” of flame-red flora, floating coconuts full of orchids, a living wall mural and a great feminine tiki overlooking it all. “Theatrical horticulture,” quips Lara. “The slowest form of performance art.”
Not confined to the Conservatory, the Tahitian terraforming spreads throughout the entire grounds, from the ceremonial masks-turned-planters in the Children’s Rainforest to the lean-to village installed on the Gardens’ peninsula to the fishing village scene, recreated with thatched-roof huts, dug-out canoes, coconut palms and white sand. On the pathways connecting them all, keep an eye out for Tahitian plantings, celebrating not only the beautiful and the colorful, but the culturally and economically important, such as bananas and breadfruits, often accompanied by displayed Gauguin quotations. One of the most important Tahitian staples, taro, gets the premier treatment in a carefully planted field, flanked by male and female pandanus trees, whose leaves would be woven by Tahitian natives for roofing, and guarded by an overgrown and oversized male tiki sculpture.
Inside the Payne Mansion, see the art that inspired it all (or was inspired by, depending on the interpretation) in rare works on display. See woodcuts, wood engravings and lithographs from Gauguin himself, but also explore the Tahiti of his time through colonial-era photographs, 19th century postcards and maps of his explorations.
Opening this Sunday, Gauguin: Voyage to Paradise runs through June 30.
Fresh off a tour promoting his latest album, Standards, seeing the artist pay homage to the Rat Pack era and songsters like Frank Sinatra, the Grammy-winning singer/songwriter, Seal, comes to the Van Wezel Foundation Gala this February 16. In his Sarasota debut, the “Kiss From A Rose” crooner will be performing a greatest hits concert and offering his support to the Foundation’s mission. With tickets on sale now, SRQ popped in to briefly meet the man behind the microphone.
Why is the Van Wezel Foundation something you wanted to support? Seal: I fully support any and all that are creating a place for inspiration and enrichment in the arts for our youth.
In the days of STEM and hard data, how do we emphasize the importance of arts education? Lead by example. You can’t force kids or the younger generation to see the importance in the arts. You can encourage them by setting an example; continue to make better art. It’s a call to all the artists to make better art and not succumb to popular demand—make art that’s right from the heart. The younger generation do as you do, not as you say.
Why was Standards an important album to make for you? Standards was important to me because it was an album of great songs with real storytelling. They really knew how to tell the story in their songs. I had the honor of working with some incredible musicians on the album—a few were in Frank’s original band.
As a performer, how do you keep the greatest hits fresh for each audience? It’s always fresh to me, each and every time I sing. I remain open and connected and I listen to my audience. In that space, it is always new each time.
This being your Sarasota debut, is there anything else you’re excited to see while you’re here? I love to photograph. So, if time permits, I will take my camera and explore the city.
Any thoughts on the Sarasota School of Architecture? I actually went to school for architecture, so I would love to see what they are creating and what’s coming out of there.
Pictured: Seal performs at Usher Hall. Photo by Ryan Johnston.
If you have wined and dined at 15 South Ristorante, you’ve likely met veteran bartender Joe Vicario. Located on St. Armands Circle, 15 South is a go-to for locals and visitors looking to enjoy Italian classics paired with excellent cocktails or a glass of vino. Crediting 15 South Ristorante as the "Cheers of St. Armands,” Joe says that his regulars have become family over his fourteen-year tenure at the popular eatery. Known for his vast repertoire of creations, when this cocktail-crafting local legend isn’t behind the bar at 15 South’s downstairs artisanal pizza and wine bar, Joe enjoys a good Italian or Napa wine and Moscow Mules. And on any given night, you can find him connecting with his customers and giving them a great experience. Joe's twenty years in the industry have helped shape his signature personality and made him an expert at his craft—visitors to 15 South quickly find themselves repeat customers after indulging in one of his freshly made espresso martinis. But, while you can’t beat a good martini, let’s face it—folks are really springing for that pre-dinner cocktail for more Joe-time. After all, as Joe says, “A bartender is the host of the party.”
15 South Ristorante is a member of Nosh, SRQ magazine's content marketing program for local restaurants.
Image provided by 15 South Ristorante.
15 South Ristorante, 15 South Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, 941-388-1555.
Manatee County is accepting applications for three vacancies on a citizens advisory committee that makes recommendations on regional transportation issues. The Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) assists the Metropolitan Planning Organization by providing input to the transportation planning process that reflects citizens' views and attitudes. CAC members represent a general cross section of the citizens of Sarasota and Manatee counties including the cities within the counties. CAC representatives are recommended for appointment by their respective units of local government and are appointed by the MPO Board. Manatee County residents may apply for the following seats: one resident of unincorporated Manatee County and one at-large seat representing the entirety of Manatee County. Applications are taken through a rolling application process, and may be found online at the website below.
Williams Parker has announced it has added Fletcher H. Rush, a board-certified wills, trusts and estates attorney, as an associate in the firm’s trusts and estates practice. He joins the firm from Farr Law Firm. Rush represents clients and families in the design of wealth transfer plans, including lifetime and testamentary transfers, as well as the use of revocable and irrevocable trusts for the benefit of family members, friends and charitable organizations. Personal representatives and trustees acting in a fiduciary capacity seek Fletcher’s counsel to help navigate the various complexities involved in the transfer of wealth. He also represents clients in preparing and filing federal estate and gift tax returns, providing recommendations to reduce transfer taxes and post-mortem planning solutions. Rush serves on the board of the Library Foundation for Sarasota County and is a member of the Southwest Florida Estate Planning Council and the Venice Estate Planning Council.
A husband-and-wife team, Herman Sanchez and Klaudia Link have joined RE/MAX Platinum Realty as a realtor in the Downtown Sarasota office. Both specialize in new construction and existing residential properties, and both will be assisting buyers and sellers in the Sarasota County area.
Did you know that you can view our March edition's special section about the Rosemary Section on issuu.com? The segment may just inspire you to plan an outing to this hip, creative neighborhood over the upcoming weekend.
SRQ MEDIA's Power Up event, fueled by the SRQ Women In Business Initiative provided Leadership Circle members and special guests with an opportunity to mix, mingle, brainstorm and develop new connections at Sophie's at Saks Fifth Avenue. Photos from the Wednesday, February 6th Power Up event are now available on CLICK SRQ. Thank you to Mark Resnick, General Manager at our fabulous host sponsor Sophie's at Saks Fifth Avenue!
Winner of the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Lynn Nottage’s play looks at life of working America. It’s the year 2000 in Reading, Pennsylvania, and friends Tracey and Cynthia only need their factory jobs and their favorite bar. But when layoffs and picket lines begin to be limited, the friends are pitted against each other. This new play confronts issues of race, class, family and friendship—and the tragic community without opportunity.
The 4th annual Black History Month academic symposium will feature a panel discussion and two healing justice workshops. Concluded with a keynote presentation on the use of West African drumming for mental health interventions by Dr. Kyaien Conner of University of South Florida, Tampa.
NCF College Hall, 5800 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
The fifth annual Bradenton Area River Regatta oozes over–the–top exhilaration coupled with all the traditional festival favorites—music, food, fun things to do—in one awe-gasping extravaganza that will fascinate spectators of all ages long after the day is done.
It all starts with the fastest inland boats on water and the largest tunnel boat race on tour—Powerboat Superleague Formula-2—splitting the surf at speeds over 120/mph. And to make sure you get all the speed you need, we’ve added Formula-3 racing this year…nimble, agile and nearly as fast—at speeds hitting 100/mph!
With music that will make your feet move and body groove all day long on two main stage venues! National recording artists and Bradenton natives: We The Kings and headliners on Palmetto's main stage from Arcadia, FL, country music group: The Andy Pursell Band.
Watch as world fly-boarding Champion Kristen Smoyer skies 80 feet into the air on an elevator of water in one somersaulting sequence of acrobatic moves. Then marvel at all the fun four-legs can conjure up in the Frisbee® flying, canine trick antics of Team Zoom and Daredevil Dogs. Plus cool kids zones on both shores of the river and enough food and drinks to satisfy appetites large and small.
And, the after-dark delights are spectacular, too, as the nation’s “First Family of Fireworks,” Zambelli Internationale, paints the sky with pyrotechnic wizardry to end the day in one rousing blast of kaleidoscopic beauty.
The all FREE, fifth annual Bradenton Area River Regatta, Saturday, February 9, 2019. Save the date then savor the excitement!
Bradenton Riverwalk
Benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Live Laugh Love Extravaganza will take place at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota on February 9th. Guests will shop at a variety of Boutique vendors selling their wares, and peruse the fabulous treasures at the silent & live auction along with fun and exciting raffles items. The program kicks off with a delicious lunch, and guests will be treated to a fashion show featuring fabulous Bigs and their Littles as they model fashions by Panache, Tommy Bahama, Gap Kids, Debbie Dannheisser Threads and jewelry designed by Contessa Jewels.
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota
Party Under the Stars in the Grove is a festive evening “under the stars,” featuring music, dancing, dining and a silent and live auction with fabulous prizes. All event proceeds provide non-medical, financial assistance to cancer patients and their families.
Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota
Although unfinished at the time of his death, this opera remains one of Italian composer Giacomo Puccini’s most loved works, known for being his most musically adventurous. The story opens with exiled Prince Calaf, wandering outside of the Chinese Imperial Palace, where he falls in love with the cold and distant Princess Turandot. To obtain her hand in marriage, a suitor must answer three riddles—but if they fail, they face execution. Prince Calaf declares his intention to complete the challenge and win the Princess’ heart, but a surprise test follows.
Sarasota Opera House , 61 North Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
AJ Cali and Alex Zickafoose will bring back the 1960s and the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons as they present many of the great songs from the Tony Award-winning jukebox musical Jersey Boys. And the California Girls—the Stiletto Brass Quintet—are sure to knock your socks off.
Sunday- Riverview Performing Arts Center Monday- Neel Performing Art Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota 5840 26th St. W, Bradenton
Just as Paul Gauguin left an indelible mark on the post-Impressionist art world, the deep impact of botanical imagery on his work cannot be denied. This exhibition will highlight the essential role of botanicals in achieving the artist’s vision of the savage, primitive and exotic. Together with lush displays of tropical plants in the conservatory and gardens, the show will feature dramatic woodcuts and rarely seen works in other mediums by the artist.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota
Dr. Carol Ockman, curator-at-large for Selby Gardens, presents an engaging talk about the featured artist, Paul Gauguin, whose work inspires and is displayed in the annual Jean and Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series.
Selby House Cafe, 811 South Palm Ave., Sarasota
Set in London, 1910, Bert, a jack-of-all-trades, guides audiences into the dysfunctional home of the Banks family, where the children have gone through numerous nannies. Mary Poppins magically flies into their lives bringing whimsy, magic and commonsense discipline for both the children and grown-ups, and everyone learns that “anything can happen if you let it.”
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W, Sarasota
In its long-held tradition of featuring a visiting company each season, to provide audiences a different insight to the art of dance, the Sarasota Ballet presents the Martha Graham Dance Company, the oldest dance company in the States, founded by contemporary dance legend Martha Graham and called “one of the great dance companies of the world” by the New York Times.
FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota
“The (M)others” is a collection of excerpts from interviews conducted by Dr. Nikki Yeboah with Bay-area mothers who have lost loved ones at the hands of police. Through their stories, there is a closer to understanding of the toll police violence takes on families. The folllowing day the locations will be moved, Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center at 525 Kumquat Ct., Sarasota
USF - Sarasota Manatee, 8350 North Tamiami Trail., Sarasota, FL
The 21st Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival is a three day event held at the Sarasota Fairground to benefit Suncoast Charities for Children. Bring you lawn chair and enjoy continuous live music featuring rock, blue, and country featuring national recording artist StealHeart performing Saturday, February 16th. This year's Festival includes a Sunday charity ride (open to all vehicles), vendors, freestyle acts, a motorcycle & truck show, burnout competition, great food, and much more! Admission is $5, children 12 and under free. $10 three day passes and VIP tickets may be purchased online in advance at thunderbythebay.org.
Sarasota Fairgrounds
The Manatee County Agricultural Museum presents Night for the Museum. The evening will feature a live and silent auction, a cash bar, and barbecue dinner. Dress is jean casual.
Woman's Club of Pametto, 910 6th Street W., Palmetto
This annual festival celebrates its 18th annual Festival featuring local and regional artists. All media. Held at Bradenton Rivewalk in the pavilion area.
Celebrate the wonder and magic of the cosmos, accompanied by a gourmet dinner, live auctions, dancing and more!
Funds raised at this special event help make a local impact and support essential American Cancer Society programs, services and extensive research for all cancers in all stages of life. The American Cancer Society’s Starry Night Soiree will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. with a pre-event reception which includes a silent auction followed by an elegant dinner, a live auction, and incredible entertainment.
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota
This interactive program of popular Russian and folk songs from the Barynya Russian Balalaika Duo incorporates colorful costumes and dance into a full experience. Highlights include “Tara’s Theme” from Dr. Zhivago, the Russian Gypsy dance “Two Guitars,” the “Cossack Dance,” “Moscow Nights,” “Kalinka” a charming “Tongue Twister Medley” and more. Instrument highlights include the balalaika, garmoshka and contrabass.
Michael's on East ballroom, 1212 South East Ave., Sarasota
The read-in is an event where members of the NCF community read aloud inspirational texts written by Black authors. Wes Bellamy is the youngest person to ever be elected to the Charlottesville City Council and was involved with the initiative to move the Confederate statue.
Jane Bancroft Cook Library , 5800 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email |
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe
