Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 135

“Undulations”: An Ode to Infinity by Merete Rasmussen – Pangolin, London

Immerse yourself in the world of the beguiling “Undulations,” the latest exhibition from Danish artist Merete Rasmussen, showcased at Pangolin, London from 14th June to 20th July. The exhibition stands as an exposition of Rasmussen’s remarkable skill in creating intricately handcrafted ceramic sculptures that seem to burst into colourful life, hinged on the concept of infinity and interconnectedness.

The undulating forms of Rasmussen’s creations are symbols of harmonious connections, blending the forces of expansion and contraction into a single entity. These sculptures elicit a sense of curiosity, inviting viewers to explore them from various perspectives to fully grasp their structure and conceptual framework.

“Undulations” is a landmark in the artist’s nine-year collaboration with Pangolin Editions foundry. This exhibition will spotlight four captivating new bronze works, alongside a range of small yet dazzling jewellery pieces, cast in sterling silver. Rasmussen’s new works make a bold departure from her previous style, drawing heavily from patterns in nature, mathematical surfaces, and the concept of negative space.

Take an artistic journey through her work, from the intricately folded forms echoing seaweed patterns to the pleats taken from leaf morphology – revolute, involute, and plicate. Rasmussen’s fourth solo exhibition at Pangolin London exemplifies her engagement with the natural world, mirrored exquisitely in her sculptures.

The appeal of “Undulations” lies in its challenge to the observer’s quest for human significance in forms and shapes. Expanding on an already impressive body of work, this exhibition promises to delight viewers, encouraging introspection and sparking surprise.

Rasmussen’s work has been widely exhibited and esteemed enough to feature in various public collections, including the prestigious Victoria and Albert Museum, London and the National Museums of Scotland, Edinburgh, amongst others. Pangolin London has the honour to represent the artist on her home turf, the UK.

[image error]Merete Rasmussen
DARK ORANGE FOLDED, 2024
Ceramic with coloured slip
35 x 33 x 29 cm
Unique
Photos: Steve Russell Studios

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“The Flooded Garden”: A Voyage into Collaborative Artistry at the Tate Modern

This summer, immerse yourself in a sea of art and creativity as Tate Modern and UNIQLO unveil their latest collaborative installation, “The Flooded Garden”. International artist Oscar Murillo invites visitors of all ages to partake in an expansive, collaborative art project that promises a unique artistic experience.

Photo by Tim Bowditch, courtesy the artist. Copyright © Oscar Murillo.

Inspired by Claude Monet’s iconic Water Lilies, this interactive installation allows you to join forces with other art enthusiasts, painting a sea of water and waves over gigantic canvases. Your individual brushstrokes, along with those of others, will join together to form a massive, evolving piece of art in the Turbine Hall.

The installation offers a mesmerising journey through a curved structure, lined with towering walls of canvas featuring messages and art from global visitors. As you add layer upon layer of wave-like brushstrokes, you become part of a collective, living work of art, painting in captivating hues of deep blues, yellows and pinks.

The exhibition will also feature a special showcase of Murillo’s personal works in the South Tank. Visitors will have the chance to see the evolution of his “Surge” series, focusing on themes of social blindness and the inability to fully comprehend one another. This comparison between physical and social blindness forms the basis of Murillo’s concept of “social cataracts” – a powerful metaphor for our times. Advocating for empathy and understanding, Murillo’s art creates a dialogue about our collective experience.

Throughout the year, UNIQLO Tate Play brings art and creativity to life, offering an array of free, participatory art activities for families visiting Tate Modern. Created with the ethos that art and play should be accessible to everyone, this initiative has so far reached over 400,000 participants.

With the success of UNIQLO Tate Play, UNIQLO has pledged to continue its support of the programme until 2029, promising many more years of artistic exploration and fun. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible artistic journey – dive into “The Flooded Garden” from 20th July to 26th August 2024.

Photo by Tim Bowditch and Reinis Lismanis, courtesy the artist. Copyright © Oscar Murillo.

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“Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple” – A Tour de Force Through the Life of a Rock ‘n’ Roll Icon

The acclaimed HBO Original documentary, “Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple”, is set to debut on Saturday, June 22, giving viewers an intimate glance into the illustrious career of the beloved musician, actor, and activist, Stevie Van Zandt. Known for his multifaceted roles in music, acting and activism, Van Zandt’s journey is beautifully chronicled in this groundbreaking documentary, featuring insightful interviews with a host of renowned figures, from Bruce Springsteen to Bono.

Directed by Bill Teck, “Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple” traces the artist’s journey from the clubs of Asbury Park, N.J., to the world’s most prominent arenas and stadiums, and even the iconic Bada Bing Club. Offering a wealth of never-before-seen footage, the documentary not only profiles the life and career of Van Zandt but also illuminates his enduring legacy as a fervent champion of rock ‘n’ roll and social justice.

Boasting an impressive roster of interviewees, the film includes conversations with many contemporaries, collaborators, and friends, offering a comprehensive exploration of Van Zandt’s professional and personal life. Rare performance footage brings us closer to the emergence of the Jersey Shore sound in the mid-1970s, when Van Zandt, alongside Springsteen and Southside Johnny, shaped their signature sound.

In addition to charting his musical journey, the film also highlights Van Zandt’s activism, showcasing his instrumental role in uniting 50 of the biggest names in music to protest Apartheid in South Africa with the history-altering “Sun City” track. The documentary also sheds light on his acclaimed on-screen role as Silvio Dante in the Emmy®-winning HBO Original series “The Sopranos.”

Throughout his career spanning over five decades, Van Zandt continues to make a resounding impact, remaining an indelible force in the realms of artistic excellence and popular culture. “Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple” is a testament to his legacy, presenting a compelling portrait of a rock ‘n’ roll icon and passionate activist.

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Siren Arts Celebrates 8th Year: Transformer Unveils New Exhibition Space in Asbury Park

ASBURY PARK, NJ – The ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art takes a vibrant turn this summer as Transformer proudly presents its 8th annual Siren Arts summer artist residency program and performance art series. This year, the celebratory season kicks off with the grand opening of a much-anticipated new exhibition space on June 13.

Siren Arts, Alexander D’Agostino_Glitterwitch, photo by Sara Stadtmiller

Located at Asbury Ocean Club’s corner space at 4th Ave & Kingsley St, the brand new art haven is set to become the pulsating heart of transformative art culture in Asbury Park, NJ. Fueled by the magnanimity of Starfield Companies, Transformer seeks to amplify its mission of championing emerging artists and fostering an inclusive and engaging community through its innovative Siren Arts program.

The grand opening, slated for June 13, 6-8pm, will treat audiences to a summer-long exhibition featuring Siren Arts performance photography by local talent Sara Stadtmiller, new paintings from Zach Storm, and an array of evolving artwork from Transformer’s FlatFile program. This forward-thinking space will also play host to the Siren Arts deepwater artists-in-residence, providing an opportunity for public art performances every Thursday evening from July 11 through August 15 along Asbury Park’s 2nd Avenue Beach.

Initiated in 2017, Siren Arts has established itself as a vital summer artist residency program & performance art series that primarily supports underserved BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ artists within mid-Atlantic urban spaces. This year’s lineup of Siren Arts: deepwater artists-in-residence boasts thought-provoking names like Tai Tai, tasha dougé, and Jordan Deal among others, set to tantalize aesthetic interpretations and interactions.

Through endeavors that bridge the gap between the environment and art, this year’s artists will explore oceanic themed creations while sparking dialogues on intersectional implications of climate change. With the thriving artistic community of Asbury Park as their canvas, a new wave of contemporary art is set to make a splash this summer.

This year’s Siren Arts: deepwater artists-in-residence include:

July 8 – 12 / Tai Tai (New York, Chicago, Los Angeles)

July 15 – 19 / tasha dougé (Bronx, NY)

July 22 – 26 /Jordan Deal (Philadelphia, PA)

July 29 – Aug 2 / Erin Ellen Kelly (New York, NY)

August 5 – 9 / Laura Bernstein, with Patty Gone, and Perrin Ireland (New York, NY)

Aug 12 – 16 / Kelindah Schuster (Brooklyn, NY)

Siren Arts, Arien Wilkerson, photo by Sara Stadtmiller

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“Tarot”: A Horror Film Riddled with Clichés – Coincidentally Familiar Yet Eerily Amusing

“Tarot” is a horror movie written and directed by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg based on the novel by Nicholas Adams. It stars Alana Boden, Jacob Batalon, Humberly González and Olwen Fouere.

In the world of cinema, there is an endless array of horror films that aim to scare us, offering a thrilling and entertaining cinematic experience. Some are original, fresh and unique, pushing the boundaries and redefining the genre. Then there are films like “Tarot”, which rely heavily on tried and tested clichés.

A Pocketful of Clichés All in One Picture

“Tarot” is a film that indulges in every typical scene that has scared us not only once, but repeatedly over time. From the mysteriously appearing girl at the curve to the demonic clown, witches and terrifying children’s fares, it draws inspiration from various sources ranging from occult themes to silent era cinema.

The references to Tarot, future predicting cards, and Zodiac signs further exemplify its reliance on popular culture clichés. Despite its dependence on these worn-out elements, the horror story, modernized with commendable CGI, is surprisingly enjoyable and classic, giving us a few good moments.

However, don’t expect surprises in the plot. The storyline strikingly resembles “Final Destination” (2000), making it impossible not to draw parallels.

A Glimpse into the Plot

The plot involves a group of young individuals in a large house, casually indulging in beers and deciding to dabble in Tarot to predict their future, a game which ultimately awakens an evil spirit.

The Final Verdict

Despite its blatant copycat tendencies, “Tarot” strives to please its audience. It showcases good cinematography, impressive effects, and well-executed horror scenes. The downside? A glaring lack of originality.

In some ways, the film can be seen as a tribute to classical cinema, employing an array of stereotypes: young people gathered, who unknowingly trigger a chain of catastrophic events.

While such films have had successful runs over the decades, “Tarot”, may not receive enthusiastic reviews but could still do wonders in terms of audience reach and distribution. This is the quintessential cinema business model: low investment, minimal risk, and potential profits through repeated formula application.

Despite its lack of originality, the film defends itself with its sufficient effects, sound, and scare levels, making it not a total disaster. With all its predictability, it’s worth noting that these type of films still have an audience. It might not be winning any Oscars, but it’s sure to deliver a few scares.

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“Perfect Match”: The Steamy Reality Show Heating Up Your Netflix Queue

“Perfect Match” is an irresistible reality contest featuring a cast of beautiful men and women who (let’s not beat around the bush) are here to chase fame and fortune. Many have already made their mark in other competitions, while some are fresh faces from Netflix series. All of them seem very comfortable flaunting their bodies in swimming attire.

The objective of the show is straightforward: build romantic (and physical) relationships. The couple that garners the most votes wins the grand prize – a fully funded vacation to continue their steamy romance. Let’s be honest: these young contestants are here to boost their popularity, have a good time, and entertain us. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

The charismatic Nick Lachey, a heartthrob actor known for his roles in other shows such as “Love is Blind” (2020), hosts the show.

About the Contest

In case you’re wondering what you’re getting into: don’t expect discussions on quantum physics. Instead, expect light-hearted banter, impressive abs, and, well, not much else. Each contestant brings their unique personality to the table, but they all fit the profile of being young, charming, attractive, and somewhat promiscuous. But after all, isn’t that why they’re here?

This time around, the show can’t be binged straight through. We currently have six episodes, but we’ll have to wait until the 14th of June to uncover the veils of mystery.

If you’re up for a show where everyone is on a quest for love through multiple relationships, “Perfect Match” is designed for you. It’s another Netflix offering that lets you park your brain at the door.

Will they talk about sex? You’ll have to watch to find the answer to that metaphysical question.

Where to Watch “Perfect Match”

Netflix

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“Hierarchy” – Netflix’s Latest Korean Thriller: A Youthful Journey Through Social Structure, Love, and Mysteries

“Hierarchy” is a new series starring Lee Chae-Min, Roh Jeong-eui, Lee Won-jung and Ji Hye-won. It is created by Bae Hyeon-jin and Chu Hye-mi.

Netflix welcomes this Friday with a riveting new Korean production that revisits a successful genre – a youthful thriller that intertwines intrigue, social classes, and a string of murders. Sound familiar? Indeed, this relatively new genre has been making waves, series after series, ever since the groundbreaking television drama ‘Elite’ (2018, Netflix) set the trend. Sticking to this successful formula, the latest series unfolds in Korea, focusing on the heirs of “chaebols” (재벌) or business magnates – young, classy and, most importantly, incredibly affluent.

HierarchyThe Plotline

In a luxurious and exclusive Korean high school, social status is everything. On one hand, you have the heirs of wealthy families, who are accustomed to having their way. On the other hand, there are the lower-class students who accept the dictums from the rich heirs, knowing full well that they would eventually end up working for them.

A new scholar arrives at the school, determined to uncover the mysteries surrounding his friend’s death, which occurred at the same institution. As the plot thickens, all signs point to a group of students and particularly to a mysterious girl named Jung Jae-i, the daughter of a well-known businessman.

About the Series

Korean dramas, especially on Netflix, are a global sensation for hitting the right chords with the audience. Consistently delivering high-quality content, performed by talented and attractive actors, these series never fail to provide an enjoyable viewing experience.

“Hierarchy” is no exception, with a high-end production that features opulent mansions, sports cars, lavish parties and extravagant outfits. Everything is designed to create an atmosphere of luxury and fanciful sophistication – precisely what the audience expects.

The script does not disappoint either, with a thrilling storyline that intertwines romance, revenge and narratives of young students feeling abandoned by their powerful parents. Adhering to a tried-and-tested formula, “Hierarchy” chooses to satisfy audience expectations, sprinkling a few plot twists and amplifying the appeal with K-style aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

Unsurprisingly, “Hierarchy” delivers just what we expect from it – no frills or drastic deviations from the familiar. It adapts the successful formula, adds a couple of script turns, and focuses on high-quality production. Though it may be predictable, it certainly doesn’t disappoint, and the high visual aesthetics are a feast for the eyes.

Where to Watch “Hierarchy”

Netflix

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Kaleidoscope Festival 2024 Unveils its Exciting Full Line Up

The coveted Kaleidoscope Festival 2024 is set to return to Alexandra Palace this summer, with a stunning lineup revealed that promises an unforgettable day of entertainment and fun. The festival, scheduled for Saturday, July 13, will feature an electrifying mix of live music, DJs, and comedy at what is often hailed as the most beautiful festival site in London.

Headlining the Hilltop Stage will be MINISTRY OF SOUND CLASSICAL, a 30-piece ensemble from the London Concert Orchestra. Known for re-envisioning some of the greatest dance music hits, the orchestra intends to bring the day to a euphoric climax accompanied by a dazzling laser show.

KALEIDOSCOPE festival 2022 at Ally Pally.

Double Grammy Award-winning legends, SOUL II SOUL, will deliver an iconic set featuring all their classics, while indie party starters, THE GO! TEAM, will spread their joyful sound. The festival will also host spoken word and hip-hop artist ANTONY SZMIEREK, and the soulful HUEY MORGAN of Fun Lovin Criminals and BBC 6Music fame.

The sound of summer will continue on the Cloud 10 Stage, with an impressive collection of DJs, including Ally Pally local EROL ALKAN, electronic duo X-PRESS 2, and garage legends, ARTFUL DODGER.

Comedy fans will be treated to performances from SIMON AMSTELL, BRIAN BLESSED, SOPHIE DUKER, AHIR SHAH, and CHLOE PETTS on the Fringe Stage.

Kaleidoscope Festival extends the fun beyond music and comedy, with a dedicated Family Area – a mini festival in itself – featuring pop-up arts, circus and theatre, along with the Bandstand Stage, featuring eclectic live musical treasures.

Simon Fell, Kaleidoscope Director, shows his excitement for the event, “It’s brilliant to be back with Kaleidoscope, the centrepiece of summer at Ally Pally. We’ve got a lineup just perfect for a London summertime.”

Now in its fifth year, Kaleidoscope Festival has become an indisputable staple in the UK festival calendar. The festival offers the chance to explore the panoramic views across London, acres of parkland, and the iconic Alexandra Palace site.

Tickets for Kaleidoscope Festival 2024 are on sale now. For more details, visit https://kaleidoscope-festival.com/.

Kaleidoscope 2024. Photo by Ally Pally

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“The First Omen”: A Surprising Hulu Style Prequel Honoring the Original

“The First Omen” is a 2024 movie written and directed by Arkasha Stevenson starring Nell Tiger Free. With Ralph Ineson, Sônia Braga and Bill Nighy.

Hulu has done it again: the streaming network has taken a classic horror film, “The Omen” (1976), and created an intriguing prequel that pays homage to and respects the original. The prequel vividly depicts the birth of Damien with stunning effects and a sense of spectacle. It also expresses a profound respect and reverence for one of the greatest horror films of all time.

Plot Summary

A novice arrives to take her vows as a nun but soon finds herself entangled in a demonic plot where priests are attempting to bring the Anti-Christ to life.

The First Omen“The First Omen”: A Grand Tribute and a Novel Movie

Comparing a prequel with its iconic 70s horror movie original may seem inevitable. The original was a psychological and religious horror film with an atmosphere that left everyone spellbound at the time. The horror genre has evolved over the last 50 years towards a more visceral and visual terror, one that shows more than it suggests.

“The First Omen” seems to build on this fact to blend both worlds into something that may seem impossible: being visually explicit without undermining the setting and psychological horror. This film largely achieves this by paying tribute to the most famous sequences of the 1976 movie and then, when we least expect it, turning the story around and surprising us all with a plot twist and a good old-fashioned scare.

“The First Omen” maintains a tense atmosphere throughout, initially emulating the tension of the classic movie. The challenge lies in that the story is already familiar, demanding inventive ways to surprise viewers at the script level: and they manage to do that, though it takes its time.

Hulu had previously done this with “The Exorcist,” another classic from 1973. In that instance, they took even more liberties with the script. In this case, there is greater respect for the original aesthetic and, above all, for the setting, narrative formulas, and pacing.

Our Opinion

This is a great horror film that, even if it doesn’t break new ground in the genre, serves to reconcile fans of both classic and modern, visually oriented horror in a film that’s sure to please both camps.

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Eyes Open! It’s Not a Showcase, It’s an Exhibition

Korean fashion designer Yerim Kim, a favorite among K-Pop Idols and creator of collections for FILA and ASICS, presents her retro-futuristic creations at the Korean Cultural Center in Spain.

MADRID, 05/06/2024. – The Korean Cultural Center in Spain transforms into a Fashion Cultural Center with the launch of the third edition of the K-Fashion exhibition, an initiative that began in 2022 to bring Korean fashion and culture to Spain and support Korean designers who are making an impact worldwide.

“Eyes Open! It’s Not a Showcase, It’s an Exhibition” lands in Spain courtesy of Yerim Kim, founder of the brand ‘EYES (www.ojos.kr)’, and fashion designer adored by K-Pop Idols who is causing a sensation with her futuristic, sporty designs. The Han-ul Gallery at the Centre transforms from June 21 until July 31 into a retro-futuristic space showcasing more than 80 looks designed by Yerim Kim, some of which have been worn by K-Pop stars from bands like NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM.

From Dreams to Reality

Award-winning Yerim Kim, who since the age of 14 harbored dreams of dedicating herself to fashion and establishing her own brand, eventually founded her brand EYES in 2019. In just three years she achieved one of the most prestigious awards in the Korean fashion industry and has formed collaborations with international brands such as ASICS and FILA.

Creative Talent Behind K-pop Idols

The role of fashion in enhancing the stage presence of K-Pop artists is undeniably significant. Numerous K-Pop Idols have sported outfits from talented designer Yerim Kim’s brand EYES, including members of the band NewJeans.

Digital Fashion in Korea

Korea, a cultural and stylistic benchmark in the world, is also making waves in the realm of digital fashion and the metaverse. The Korean Metaverse industry is expected to grow by 34.2% annually by 2030, revolutionizing the world of fashion. The Korean Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) supports independent fashion brands as part of the cultural content industry and organizes the Metaverse Fashion Festival, showcasing Korean designs and fashion brands in the metaverse.

Free Entry (Monday to Friday)

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