Anya M. Wassenberg's Blog: Art & Culture Maven, page 20

Visual Artists: Costa Rica's Hotel Belmar Launches Open Call For Artist Residency Program

 From a media release:

Visual Artists:
Costa Rica's Hotel Belmar Launches Open Call For Artist Residency Program

The sustainable boutique hotel welcomes artists to be inspired by nature

MONTEVERDE, Costa Rica – Hotel Belmar, a leading eco-focused boutique hotel located in the cloud forest of Monteverde, Costa Rica, is launching an open call for its Artist Residency Program. The program brings established and emerging artists to the hotel to discover the wonders of the cloud forest and create art inspired by nature.

Hotel Belmar, Costa RicaAbout the Program

Hotel Belmar’s Artist Residency Program takes place four times per year, welcoming one or more artists per session for a three-week retreat where they can create and share their work with hotel guests, staff members, as well as the local community.  

Apply for the Hotel Belmar Artist Residency Program here The next Artist Residency at Hotel Belmar will take place in October 2022 and the deadline for applying is September 10th.

“Hotel Belmar’s Artist Residency bridges the artistic spark with Monteverde’s natural exuberance and the uniqueness of a travel experience,” said Pedro Belmar, General Manager of Hotel Belmar.

“The selected artist is encouraged to enjoy the area’s forest, eco-diversity, and daily flow all while immersed in a hospitality setting that is by nature transient, but that elicits a sense of balance, elegance, and community. The hotel’s spaces become a vibrant studio where the artist influences visitors, staff and local residents, and the latter three influence the artist’s output.”

Hotel Belmar, Costa Rica

The hotel hosts artists who work in a variety of disciplines and mediums, from painting and sculpture to writing and more, and coordinates open studio hours where guests, staff and the public visit the artist in residence to talk about the works in progress. In addition, the hotel organizes two art workshops and one final art exhibition at the conclusion of the residency to showcase the artist’s work within the local community.

“We’re proud to be able to provide a meaningful platform for artists to share their artistic process,” continued Belmar. “We have a special place to offer artists a one-of-a-kind setting to encourage artistic exploration and creative experimentation. We’re thrilled to be able to bring this program back and look forward to adding to our growing collection with new artists this year.”

Following a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the program relaunched in June 2022 when the hotel welcomed the Wimblu art collective and with them, a total of eight artists have participated in Hotel Belmar’s Artist Residency Program since its inception, including New York based painter Emilia Olsen, Costa Rican painter Fabian Monge, Costa Rican writers Diego van der Laat and Christine Raine, and Austrian sculptor Bjorn Jelinek. Artworks from previous residences can be found throughout the hotel.

About Hotel Belmar

Recently named one of the Top 100 Hotels in the World as well as one of the 10 Best Resorts in Central America by Travel + Leisure magazine, Hotel Belmar is the 37-year flagship hotel of the Monteverde region located in the cloud forest of Costa Rica. 

A pioneer of tourism in the region and a leader in eco-tourism, Hotel Belmar is a family-owned independent property featuring 26 elegant guest rooms and suites, a farm to table restaurant, a bar, a juice bar and tearoom, an organic garden, a spring water pond, a sun deck, a microbrewery, a food store and a jacuzzi. 

As part of Hotel Belmar’s hospitality offerings, the SAVIA private reserve and Finca Madre Tierra will offer guests a perfect place for a highly personalized organic connection to nature. 

Two thirds of the hotel’s beautiful 3.5-hectare (9-acre) property is composed of pristine cloud forest, including a stream, waterfall, and pond. Our forest is home to many endangered species and was included in 2011 in the National Network of Private Preserves. It is also a part of the Bellbird Biological Corridor, a natural corridor to afor the communication of the lowland forests with the temperate cloud forest. The hotel has a short self-guided trail for guests to explore. Ave Del Sol – Trail Guide 

Visit hotelbelmar.net for more information.

Here's a look at your inspiration:

Looking For VTubers: Virtual Talent Management Agency PRISM Project Announces 2022 Auditions

From a media release:

Looking For VTubers:
Virtual Talent Management Agency PRISM Project Announces 2022 Auditions

Applicants of All Genders Welcome to Apply

Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN – Virtual talent management agency PRISM Project, a member of the Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. family of virtual talent brands, announced on August 7 its latest step in developing and producing virtual talents on a global scale, opening auditions for applicants of all genders residing in twenty countries and regions worldwide.

Beginning August 7, 2022 at 2:00 PM PDT, PRISM Project began accepting applications for their General Audition 2022 for both female- and male-presenting characters. 

Backed by Sony Music's industry-leading expertise in talent management, voice acting, music production, event production, and digital technology, PRISM Project will push the boundaries of the virtual talent space by providing growth and development opportunities unrivaled in the industry today. Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. has made it their business goal to discover talents, nurture them, and help develop their unique creative spark that enables them to bring joy and excitement to millions of fans worldwide.

With the message that "VTubers Are Human, Too," PRISM Project acknowledges that VTubers are a character, a talent, but at the same time, also a talented human being. 

They intend to promote the message that VTubers are also human and need the opportunity to learn and grow, and understand that they require a proper balance of work and private time to ensure the maintenance of physical and mental health. Just like a family, PRISM Project aims to share in the wonderful moments that a professional talent will experience on their journey, as well as to help guide them through all the ups and downs that may pop up along the way as each talent pursues their own career and personal goals. 

PRISM Project is looking for talents who are motivated, eager to seek out growth and development, and have a passion for bringing their message to the world. Applicants should have a strong drive to challenge themselves and a desire to excel at their chosen content creation goals. Applicants may review the audition guidelines, access the application form, and review other important information at PRISM Project’s General Auditions 2022 webpage.

Check it out here.

 
《PRISM Project General Audition 2022》PRISM Project General Audition 2022Application Period: Sunday, August 7, 2022 2:00 PM PDT – Friday, September 9, 2022 11:59 PM PDTApplicant Requirements:
1. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.2. Applicants of all gender identities are welcome.3. Successful applicants must be able to conduct their streaming content primarily in English. Japanese and other language skills are welcome.4. Applicants must reside in one of the following countries/regions: United States, Japan, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Peru, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao, Republic of Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, or Singapore.5. Applicants must be able to participate in the audition process from initial document submission and screening to final interviews.6. If selected, applicants must be able to commit to conducting virtual talent activities for a minimum of one (1) year, with an expected minimum of four (4) live streams per week.7. Applicants should have a strong desire to further their careers as professional virtual talents, wish to pursue streaming as virtual YouTubers (VTubers), and have interest in pursuing other related talent activities under a professional management team with industry-leading experience.
 
 《About PRISM Project》 PRISM Project is a virtual talent management agency based in Tokyo, Japan, a part of the Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. virtual talent management family.
PRISM’s mission is to “create a world where all people on Earth can find something they love and feel happiness every single day.” Officially launched in January 2021 with three multilingual talents, the agency has grown to twelve currently-active talents, with a strong, enthusiastic worldwide fan base. 
In generation order, the talents include Iku Hoshifuri, Aoi Tokimori, Meno Ibuki, Rita Kamishiro, Luto Araka, Shiki Miyoshino, Nia Suzune, Yura Rikudou, Pina Pengin, Naki Kamizuki, Sara Nagare, and Non Anon. Primarily active on YouTube, PRISM talents stream a variety of content including, but not limited to, singing, karaoke, gaming, art, and much more. 
Under the guidance of Sony Music’s expertise in the worldwide entertainment industry, PRISM Project aims to provide their talents with unrivaled opportunities in the virtual talent space to explore their potential in voice acting, music production, online/offline events, and interacting with new digital technologies.
【PRISM Project】Homepage: https://www.prismproject.jp/Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/PRISMproj

Batuki Music Presents | Habari Africa Festival August 5–7 2022

From a release: 
Batuki Music Presents
Habari Africa Festival
August 5–7, 2022 
at Harbourfront Toronto 
Enjoy the art and music of Africa's rich and diverse cultures at Toronto's Harbourfront. Presentations celebrate the uniqueness, wealth and diversity of the continent of Africa and its music, dance, film and arts. 

The Habari Africa Festival will feature emerging artists in Canada along with established national and international touring groups. Here's a look at the schedule. August 5 Stage in the Park Gloria Gift Nankunda and Emanzi Dance Troupe - 7-7:45Gloria Gift Nankunda is a folk-soul Musician based in Toronto. Her soulful voice brings a delightful euphony of tales and melodies derived from her rich Ankole heritage in Uganda meshed with other African musical influences. 
Ethio Azmari - 9-9:30
The Azmari are skilled at improvisation and play an important role in Ethiopian society, like the griots or praise singers of West Africa. ETHIO AZMARI features vocalist Sintayehu “Mimi” Zenebe, masenqo player/vocalist Abebe Fikade, drummer Bereket Gebrekirstos and dancer Yordanos Behonegn Nuri. 
   
Concert stage Okavango African Orchestra 8-9Okavango African Orchestra is a musical ensemble created by Batuki Music Society featuring a cast of accomplished African-born musicians, singers and composers who now live in Toronto and Montreal: Daniel Nebiat (krar), Kofi Ackah (drums), Tichaona Maredza (mbira, guitar), Sadio Sissokho (kora, percussion), Ebenezer Agyekum (bass), Assane Seck (guitar) and Mabinty Sylla (dance). 
Dobet Gnahoré 9:30-11
GRAMMY-winner Dobet Gnahoré is one of Africa's hottest and most beloved talents. With her amazing voice, incredible dance moves, powerful presence, and colorful style, Dobet is a virtuosic singer, dancer, percussionist, and songwriter who has taken the modern Afropop sounds of her country in exciting new directions. Dobet Gnahoré is well-known for her jaw-dropping dance moves, powerful stage presence and emotional vocal style.  
   
August 6 Kids' Tent Njacko Backo’s African VillageMusic, Arts and Crafts 1-5
Njacko Backo is a Juno-nominated musician, storyteller, and songwriter who has been performing for children and adults since his childhood in Cameroon. He has a lifetime of practice in capturing the subtlety of dance and storytelling with his music – an essential part of the African performing arts. Stage in the Park IZimba arts 2-2:45
IZimba Arts is a music and dance group specializing in Southern African traditional music, Gumboot and Township dances, Afro-fusion, and Workshops. The groups' founding members are Brian Moyo and Teddy Masuku, both multi-talented performing artists from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.     
Adam Solomon 7-7:45
Adam Solomon "The Professor", as he is known in musical circles, is highly respected as a lead guitarist, composer and singer. He creates a unique sound that combines traditional African blues and jazz, spiced with East African rhythms. He sings in English, Swahili, and Mijikenda (the Nine Tribes from Mombasa on the Kenyan coast). 
La Kora des Griots 9-9:30
Born in Senegal to a family of musicians, story tellers, historians, singers and dancers, collectively known as griots, Sadio Sissokho’s roots are richly embedded in the Mandingue culture. Born in Mali to a large family of griots, Diely Mori Tounkara followed in the footsteps of his musician father by becoming an undisputed master of the kora.
   
South Lawn Tent 3:00 – 3:45 : Ethio Dance Workshop
Yordanos Nuri will share basic steps of traditional dances of Ethiopia in this fun workshop for all-ages. Yordanos Nuri is a popular dancer and performer who specializes in traditional dances of Ethiopia. 
4:30 – 5:15 : IZimba Arts Dance Workshop Studio Theatre 3:00 – 4:15 : La Rockeuse du Désert
Sara Nacer is an emerging filmmaker based in Montreal where she also works as a digital product manager at Bell Media. His first documentary film "Let them all go, shot in Algeria at the heart of the smile revolution, highlights the socio-cultural awakening of the young generation. 
5:30-7:15: The Rumba Kings
The country formerly known as Zaïre, starting in the 1950s and continuing into the 1980s, was the vibrant musical heart of Sub-Saharan Africa, crammed with dancing bars and musical orchestras, bustling with record labels, and most importantly home to some of the biggest stars of African music such as Grand Kallé, Dr. Nico and Franco Luambo.     
Concert Stage Dicko Fils 8-9
Moulaye Dicko, better known by his stage name Dicko Fils, is a popular Burkinabé musician who sings and plays the kamala n’goni. He has been awarded the Knight’s Order of Merit from the Ministry of Culture of Burkina Faso and the Golden Kundé award for Best Artist. 
Songs of My Mother 9:45-11
Batuki Music Society has curated Songs of My Mother to shine a light on the musical diversity and rich talents that these women artists possess.Songs of My Mother features JUNO award winner Lorraine Klaasen, the daughter of the renowned jazz singer Thandie Klaasen, and one of the few South African artists who have preserved the classic sound of ‘Township Music'. JUNO award winner Djely Tapa is a descendant from a long line of griots, and blessed with the voice of her mother Kandia Kouyate, a legendary Manding singer from Kayes, Mali. Mis Blandine is a singer and songwriter from the Democratic Republic of Congo, with music that encompasses sounds from her roots with afrobeats, R&B, jazz and pop. Born in South Sudan, Ruth Mathiang uses her voice to advocate for important social issues, her sound is a fusion of traditional African music with hip hop, afrobeats and reggae.    
Sunday August 7 Kids' Tent Blank Canvas 1-5
Spin a Hand Drum Crafts – Blank Canvases Our young participants will make a Hand Drum, which is a traditional African instrument, and very similar versions can also be found in Peru, India, China, and other parts of the world. 
Stage in the Park Mambo Chivero 3-3:45
Mambo Chivero is a Zimbabwean musician, singer, songwriter and teacher who plays a unique traditional instrument from Zimbabwe called Mbira (thumb piano). Mbira sound is penetrating and warm at the same time capturing the participation of the listeners and draw into its mood. 
Sadaka 6-7
Sadakah means to give. Inviting our divine deities to give us the energy to spread blessings. Alubarika! Sadaka was created by Nigerian dance educator, performer and choreographer, Sani Abu Mohammed Allen of Ijovudu Dance International. South Lawn Tent DJ Moussa & Fumu Jahmez 1-1:45
DJ Moussa delivers an intoxicating mix of African music genres, joined by one of Toronto’s most popular dancers and choreographer Fumu Jahmez. Fumu Jahmez is multidisciplinary artist hailing from Democratic Republic of Congo. He is a dancer, singer, poet, song writer and more. 
Beeka RITE 2-2:45
Dance with BK by R.I.T.E. Workshop Fusing traditional East African dance moves and rhythms with modern concepts and high-energy Hip Hop grooves. Beekaa Abraham is a dancer-choreographer-mover-actor-MC-radio host-hype man and martial artist from East Africa, Oromia. You can catch him live on air Tuesdays at 6pm- 7:30pm on 933fm CFMU “Lace Up Radio”. 
Concert Stage 
Butterfly Band 4-5:30
Following in his father's footsteps, master percussionist Kofi Ackah has been a fixture in the African music scene in Canada for many years, having performed with many groups, and is a JUNO award winner and nominee for his work with the African Guitar Summit and Okavango African Orchestra. 
  

A Little Gestalt With Your Jazz: The Holy Gasp In Toronto's Kensington Market

Little Gestalt With Your Jazz:
The Holy Gasp In Toronto's Kensington Market

The setting in the back of Café Pamenar on Augusta Street is like a backyard, with a bower of unkempt grapevines and fruit trees. Seating is at wooden tables, where the communal spirit of the evening's entertainments begins. 

It's Kensington Market, still resolutely ungentrified of all Toronto's neighbourhoods, so the drinks are reasonable. As it begins, Benjamin Hackman, host and much more, the musicians, and two performers dressed as Spectres of Death commune on the stage. 

On July 28, they were Yunjin Claire Lee on the Piano; Anthony William Wallace on the Violin; George Crotty on the Cello; Andrew Furlong on the Bass; Naomi Higgins and Abigail Neale on the Flutes, and The Spectres of Death were played by Evan Arbic and Sarah Swire.

The music begins to play, an ambient improvisational jazzy backdrop as Benjamin begins to talk to the audience. It starts with names and birthdays, and in short order, becomes confessional. Someone confesses their love for their companion, then talks about being called "too much" and how that feels. Others talk about insecurities and emotions.

It doesn't sound like what typically happens in the backs of bars in any city in the world. It doesn't sound much like entertainment.

"Is anyone willing to undergo transformational change that we can all comment on?"

But, here's what happens. In the face of Benjamin's charming, and completely disarming sincerity, the whole room becomes a happy supportive place. You're smiling, and before you know it, you might even get up on the stage, or to dance, or grab the mic to offer your own experiences to the mix. 

The music is lovely and flows easily, and the Spectres of Death assist in handing around the mics and dancing, of course. 

You won't be surprised when, in fact, someone is willing to undergo transformational change in front of that warm crowd.

They meet every other Thursday at Café Pamenar, 307 Augusta, Toronto at 8 pm. To find out more, you can stay in touch:

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Hotel News: W Toronto Opens In Yorkville

From a media release:

Hotel News:
W Toronto Opens In Yorkville With Canada's first W Sound Suite - a professional recording studio

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of hotel brands, announced the opening of W Toronto. Rising 11 stories in the vibrant, creatively charged neighbourhood of Yorkville, the hotel is a celebration of Toronto’s storied art scene, diversity of culture, and legacy of non-conformity. 

W Hotel Toronto Living Room (lobby) image courtesy of W Hotels

“From its street art scene and ongoing musical legacy, Toronto is a natural fit for W Hotels,” says Benoit Racle, Vice President, Brand Management, W Hotels Worldwide. “Our unassuming, playful interpretation of luxury is poised to make W Toronto a regular stop for those living and working in Toronto as well as the perfect place for an out-of-town guest to revel in the city like a local.”

A Culture Clash of Design

Designed by global creative agency Sid Lee, W Toronto is a juxtaposition of the city’s biophilia, man-made city grid and brutalist architecture. The contrast begins with the exterior, where the brutalist façade has been transformed through warm, LED lighting that illuminates the night sky, including a glowing, opaque orange lift to take guests to the rooftop bar and restaurant. 

The journey begins on the 6th Floor, where the Welcome Desk and Living Room (the W brand’s signature lobby/lounge) drips in jewel tones of ruby, amethyst, and topaz - with curved lines and velvet furniture reminiscent of Toronto’s late 60s and early 70s counterculture movement. 

Other highlights of the 5,000 square foot space include a communal “fire” pit, a circular destination bar featuring cascading amber lighting, and access to The Yard, an outdoor terrace surrounded by a three-story atrium of guest room windows - creating a voyeuristic tension between public and private.

W Hotel Toronto - a studio suite

W Toronto features 254 guest rooms - including 30 suites - two of which are Extreme Wow (Presidential) Suites. Drawing inspiration from Toronto’s illustrious theater district, guest room beds are flanked by stage-inspired pendant lights and situated in front of a sapphire velvet curtain that can be automatically drawn open or shut. 

Design touches include curved banquettes, dressing-room style vanity mirrors, “record-like” tables in honor of Toronto’s musical legacy and nods to nature, like the abstract floral wallpaper and mushroom-shaped accent lights. As a playful wink to personal artistic interpretation, Double Queen Rooms are adorned with wall art that reads “Not everything has to mean something. Some things just are.” by Canadian writer and musician Charles de Lint.

Art + Soul: The Art Collection and Sound Suite of W Toronto

Music and creative artistry take centrestage at W Toronto, boasting Canada’s first W Sound Suite, the brand’s signature recording studio experience. Situated off the Living Room, behind a nondescript, one-way, tinted window, W Toronto’s W Sound Suite is outfitted with professional equipment, where accomplished and novice musicians, podcasters, and other creatives can draw inspiration from the city and hotel scene.

From the psychedelic rock of the 60s and the hip hop of today, to the street art of Graffiti Alley, Toronto is known for its multidisciplinary artistic legacy. 

W Toronto honors and adds to this cannon with a collection of original work, beginning with the W Monument on Bloor Street. Created by Sid Lee, it reflects biophilia and hippie culture through the use of natural crystal rock patterns and the bold palette of psychedelia. 

The journey continues with three murals by Dutch-born artist Mikael B. At the driveway is “Below The Surface,” a mesmerizing interpretation of undersea volcanic eruptions; “Hidden Gem” - located at Lift Level G - inspired by Salvador Dalí, Jackson Pollock and Peter Saul with an array of colors and geometric shapes; and “Clear Vision,” an abstract experimentation of color in the meeting and event space.

Coffee. Cocktail. Cuisine Scene.

Leading the creative culinary charge at W Toronto is Executive Chef Keith Pears, who is well-known to culinary enthusiasts. 

His enviable resume – B.C. Chef of the Year, Gold Metal Plates, Bocuse d’Or National Selection, and appearing on Chopped Canada – brings star quality to W Toronto’s three distinct beverage and food venues, taking guests on a progressive journey from morning to late night. 

It begins with PUBLIC SCHOOL, the rebellious, ground floor coffee house, kitchen and bar driven by barista culture by day and new school tonics, elixirs and low or no alcohol beverages by night. The playful, unpretentious, plant-forward menu is served across two sweeping levels, accentuated by inviting, late 60s/early 70s seating in a palette of soothing earth tones as well as “Toronto Gush,” an original mural by Costa Rican-born artist Alan Ganev, inspired by Toronto’s Graffiti Alley.

Ideal for a solo coffee, casual working lunch, after-work cocktail or late-night revelry, the Living Room pays homage to Toronto’s standing as the most multicultural city in the world. Featuring “Toronto Tapas” - light, shareable bites representing the city’s diverse neighborhoods - the menu includes: Barbacoa Tacos (Kensington Market); Jerk Chicken Skewers (Little Jamaica); and Fogo Island Cod Cheeks (Little India). “Sparkling” is the theme of the Living Room beverage program, with Champagne, rare bottles and a Perlini corking system allowing for unique flight experiences, bubbly by the glass as well as sparkling cocktails, such as the Celery Sour and the Green Goddess Bloody Mary.

Rooftop bar - image courtesy of W Hotels

As the sun sets, SKYLIGHT, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, casts a spell on the city’s late-night scene with alluring curated cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The indoor-outdoor boho oasis overlooks Toronto’s iconic Bloor Street, celebrating the provocative and artistic spirit of the 60s Yorkville hippie revolution. 

In addition to the bazaar-inspired main room - with its nightly DJ booth and performance stage - SKYLIGHT features The Loft (for semi-private events); The Den (an intimate seating, people-watching nook); and The Terrace (with birdcage-style seating). The menu includes familial-style mezze, salatas, and freshly made maneesh served with tagines as well as an over-the-top Seafood Tower with oysters, clams, shrimp cocktail, escabeche, tuna and scallop crudos, king crab legs, lobster, and caviar. SKYLIGHT’s cocktail program is Vermouth and Amaro-centric with a selection of upscale curated cocktails, seasonal spritzes, and adult slushes.

“W Toronto is a microcosm of the people, culture, and history of this incredible city,” says Craig Reaume, General Manager, W Toronto. “From the intentional design of each guest room and the authentically diverse menus to the music and vibe of each public space, W Toronto offers a long overdue alternative to the luxury hotel scene. We cannot wait to welcome guests time and again."

Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2022 Wants You

 From a media release:

Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2022 Wants You

5 Nights of New Horror, Sci-Fi & Action Movies!
Scotiabank Theatre, Toronto, Canada

Toronto After Dark Film Festival will be back once again in person, this October 19-23, 2022 with the 16th Annual Showcase of amazing new Horror, Sci-Fi, Action and Cult films from around the world.

The Call for Film Entries is now on! 

Toronto After Dark welcomes both Short & Feature length submissions of all forms of genre cinema including Horror, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Crime, Action, Cult, Animation, Documentary, and Music Videos.

The Final Deadline is this August 26, 2022, but Filmmakers are encouraged to submit as early as possible to save with reduced entry fees.

Films can be entered to Toronto After Dark at the popular film submission platform FilmFreeway. Just click on the logo below to go directly to the Toronto After Dark page there now:

ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Toronto After Dark Film Festival is one of the world's top showcases of new horror, sci-fi, action and cult films and is attended by a terrific audience of thousands of film fans, filmmakers, press and industry members each year.

If you are interested in advertising or sponsorship opportunities, or have any other queries, you can get hold of them here. 

From last year's festival:

Summer 2022 Airline Chaos: A New Twist

Airline Chaos:
A New Twist

This has been a summer of travel horror stories for anyone who's attempted to go by air.

I myself went on a short (even shorter than I expected!) holiday to the US. Here's the chronology, broken down by leg of the journey.

Going There

Supposed to leave June 17 morning, returning June 20 late afternoon;10pm on July 16, received a notice via the airline's mobile phone app that the flight was cancelled;They kindly rebooked me to a flight June 18 in the evening, which would have cut my 4-day weekend to 2;As it happens, I was sleeping at 10pm on July 16, since I thought I had to go to the airport at 3am;When I woke up at 1am, after hastily scrambling about online, I was able to rebook my rebooking to the early morning of June 18, thereby saving a kind of 3-day weekend;Since they told me too late to rebook my hotel, loss of one day.

Airports: Pearson

Arrived at Pearson at 3:40am;US Customs opens at 4am;There are various line-ups in front of the Customs gate, several hundred people;Of course, they're late opening;Thank God I took only carry-on, and already checked in - it's the least of the line-ups;Inside, there are more endless line-ups;By 5:30 I'm at my gate and starving;A wolfed down $31 breakfast later, and I'm finally on the plane.

Airports: Atlanta

In Atlanta, they tell you it's the world's largest and busiest airport, and they say it like it's something to be proud of;I realize that, unless I have at least 3 hours to spare, there's no point lining up at any of the food outlets in the area where I am;This is especially true coming home, where my flight is delayed until nearly closing time.

The Twist: Back Home

You'd think the story would be over, but a month after I got back, the airline app sent me a notice that my flight (same flight number) had been delayed (same flight that was delayed coming home) until 10:25pm. But, not to worry, my baggage was already on the plane.

A few minutes later, they sent me another notice saying my flight was boarding, and I had to hurry up and get to the gate.

A month later, and they were still trying to f&ck up my vacation.

If you were wondering why there haven't been many travel pieces lately...this is why. :)

Sphere Media's Groundbreaking TV Series Sort Of: Season 2 Preview

From a media release:

Sphere Media's Groundbreaking TV Series Sort Of:
Season 2 Preview

Amanda Brugel (The Handmaid’s Tale), Raymond Cham Jr. (The Big Leap), and Scott Thompson (The Kids in the Hall) join the series this season

The highly anticipated second season will make its world premiere in Canada on CBC and CBC Gem, and in the US on HBO Max, in Fall 2022

Coming on the heels of winning a Peabody and receiving the Banff Rockie Award for Program of the Year, Sphere Media today revealed Season 2 casting and production details for the critically acclaimed CBC and HBO Max original comedy SORT OF. 

Amanda Cordner as 7ven and Bilal Baig as Sabi in a scene from Season 2 of Sphere Media’s CBC/HBO Max comedy SORT OF; Courtesy of CBC/HBO Max/Sphere Media; photo taken by Jasper Savage

The series is created by Bilal Baig and Fab Filippo, who also serve as co-showrunners and executive producers. Since its debut, SORT OF has made its way into the hearts of viewers from around the world, with many lives having been positively impacted by its approach to queerness and the universal experience of transition. 

Season 2 will consist of eight half-hour episodes and is set and filmed in Toronto. Produced by Sphere Media (formerly Sienna Films), Season 2 will make its world premiere in Canada on CBC and the free CBC Gem streaming service, and in the USA on HBO Max, in Fall 2022. Season 1 of SORT OF is currently available to stream in Canada on CBC Gem, and in the USA on HBO Max.

The second season of SORT OF is the season of love. Loving your friends, family, work, romantic love and most importantly, self-love. Sabi decides not only are they ready for some uncomplicated romance but they also want everyone to love each other. Unfortunately, with their dad's unexpected return from Dubai, the Kaneko-Bauers' struggles as Bessy is released from rehab, and issues at Bar Bük, Sabi is faced with situations and relationships that are anything but simple.

7ven's Mom Gaia (Amanda Brugel) in a scene from Season 2 of Sphere Media’s CBC/HBO Max comedy SORT OF; Courtesy of CBC/HBO Max/Sphere Media; photo taken by Jasper Savage

Amanda Brugel (The Handmaid’s Tale) joins the ensemble cast this season as Gaia, artworld doyenne and 7ven’s mother, known to crash 7ven’s world and steal her friends, along with Raymond Cham Jr. (The Big Leap) who is welcomed to the world of SORT OF as Deenzie’s offspring, Wolf. Scott Thompson (The Kids in the Hall) will appear as Bryce, a wealthy investor and potential business partner. Brugel is repped by Parent Management and LINK Entertainment; Cham is repped by Buchwald; Thompson is repped by Glickman Alexander Talent Management.

In addition to Baig, returning cast members include Gray Powell as Paul; Amanda Cordner as 7ven; Ellora Patnaik as Raffo; Grace Lynn Kung as Bessy; Supinder Wraich as Aqsa; Kaya Kanshiro as Violet; Aden Bedard as Henry; Cassandra James as Olympia; and Becca Blackwell as Deenzie.

The breakout dramatic comedy recently won a Peabody in the Entertainment Category at the 82nd Annual Peabody Awards and received the Banff Rockie Award for Program of the Year. These are in addition to the series being recognized by the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television earlier this year, winning three Canadian Screen Awards for Best Comedy Series, Best Writing, Comedy, and the Members’ Choice Series Ensemble Award. 

In April, Baig and Filippo received a Writer’s Guild of Canada Screenwriting Award. SORT OF also received a GLAAD Media Award nomination for Outstanding New TV Series.

Sabi (Bilal Baig) in a scene from Season 2 of Sphere Media’s CBC/HBO Max comedy SORT OF; Courtesy of CBC/HBO Max/Sphere Media; photo taken by Jasper Savage

“Following the unbelievably loving response to our first season, we can’t wait to share the next chapter of Sabi’s journey, and evolution of all our characters, with our audiences,” said Bilal Baig and Fab Filippo, co-creators, co-showrunners, and executive producers. 

“Season 2 of SORT OF is the season of love. There is friend love and family love and loving your work and the love of a place and romantic love. So many loves. Sabi is in search of the kind of pure and simple love, but love no matter what form is complicated,” adds Baig. 

“SORT OF has resonated strongly with its audience thanks to the honest and relatable stories crafted by Bilal, Fab, the rest of the writers and our standout cast, and we’re thrilled to be able to dig deeper in Season 2,” said Jennifer Kawaja, executive producer, Sphere Media.  

SORT OF features Sabi Mehboob (Baig), a fluid millennial who straddles various identities from sexy bartender at a 2SLGBTQ+ bookstore/bar, to the youngest child in a large Pakistani family, to the de facto parent of a downtown Toronto hipster family. 

From gender to love to sexuality to family to career, Sabi feels like they’re in transition. SORT OF exposes the labels people once poured themselves into as no longer applicable…to anyone.

A CBC/HBO Max original series, SORT OF is produced with the participation of the Canada Media Fund. Bilal Baig and Fab Filippo are creators, executive producers and co-showrunners and Jennifer Kawaja (The Porter) is executive producer along with Bruno Dubé (Transplant). 

Directors for the new season are Fab Filippo (Save Me), Joyce Wong (Wexford Plaza) and J. Stevens (Slo Pitch). Jessica Daniel (Cardinal) is producer. Laura Perlmutter (Warigami) is co-executive producer. 

Series writers are Baig, Filippo, Ian Iqbal Rashid (Touch of Pink), Jenn Engels (Transplant), JP Larocque (Jann), Kyah Green (Corner Gas: Animated) and Léa Geronimo Rondot (Awake). For CBC, Sally Catto is General Manager, Entertainment, Factual & Sports; Trish Williams is Executive Director, Scripted Content; and Sandra Picheca is Director, Current Production, Comedy.  

SORT OF is distributed worldwide by Sphere Media. Abacus Media Rights handles sales outside the United States and Latin America.

About Sphere Media (formerly Sienna Films)

Sienna Films, now operating under the name Sphere Media, is one of Canada’s preeminent scripted content companies, producing film and television internationally since 1992. 

In current release is the 1920s period drama The Porter aired to critical acclaim in Canada and about to be released in the U.S. 

Its most recent series, Sort Of (CBC-HBO Max), a half-hour dramedy, has been sold around the world and recently won three Canadian Screen Awards, including Best Comedy series. Sort Of was cited by Vanity Fair and The Hollywood Reporter as one of the top TV shows of 2021 and was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award.

Slavery In Canada: Chloe-Catalyst Tells The Story Of Chloe Cooley's Fight

Slavery In Canada:
Chloe-Catalyst Tells The Story Of Chloe Cooley's Fight
And The First Anti-Slavery Law In The British Colonies

"Chloe=Catalyst" is the hybrid theatre/video production that tells the story of Chloe Cooley
Written & directed by Andrew Craig 

Chloe Cooley was the enslaved Black woman at the centre of the drama that would result in the first anti-slavery legislation passed anywhere in North America - and this happened at what is now Niagara-On-The-Lake.

Chloe was a young Black woman, enslaved with other family members at a farm in Fort Erie, and at Queenston. On 14 March 1793, United Empire Loyalist Sergeant Adam Vrooman forced her into a boat to take her across the Niagara River to sell in the United States.

Peter Martin, a freed Black Loyalist, witnessed her intense struggles and screams as she fought against three men, who eventually gagged her, tied her up, and tossed her into the boat. 

Helpless to come to her aid, he nonetheless carried her story to Niagara-on-the-Lake, then called Newark, and the capital of Upper Canada, and Lord Simcoe, a known abolitionist. It is believed that he used the furor surrounding the eyewitness account to drum up support for anti-slavery legislation that passed, but didn't go quite as far as he wanted.

The first legislation enacted to restrict in the British colonies prohibited importing new slaves, but still recognized existing ownership of slaves as property. Some of Upper Canada's most powerful families, including Provincial Secretary William Jarvis, and six out of the 16 members of the first Parliament of the Upper Canada Legislative Assembly (1792–96) were slave owners or had family members who owned slaves.

Existing slaves had no hope of freedom. But, anyone born thereafter as a slave would be free on their 25th birthday.

June 26, 2022 was also the 229th anniversary of the passage of "An Act To Limit Slavery In Upper Canada" - the legislation prompted by Chloe's abduction. 

After over two centuries, Chloe (played by Shahi Teruko) finally has a voice.

Check out a scene from Chloe-Catalyst below, and the rest of the movie at this link.

Colombian/Israeli Visual Artist Orly Anan's Art Film ‘EIN SOF’ – A Talent Show From A Parallel Galaxy

From a media release:

Colombian/Israeli Visual Artist Orly Anan
A First Look of Art Film ‘EIN SOF’
– A Talent Show From A Parallel Galaxy

Mexico City, June 30, 2022 – Mexico City-based, Colombian/Israeli visual artist Orly Anan has completed production on EIN SOF, the artist’s first short art film, which will be presented on the film festival circuit and in art installations worldwide beginning late summer.

Anan has unveiled a preview of EIN SOF, described as “a talent show from a parallel galaxy,” with the premiere of the film trailer and poster series. 

EIN SOF holds the meaning of being 'infinite', or literally 'without end', and in Kabbalah is understood as God prior to any self-manifestation in the production of any spiritual realm. Starting from the Cabalistic concept, the film project is a vision of the infinite and unlimited possibilities that exist within our being to imagine altered universes and infinite characters loaded with cosmic messages.

“My investigation attempts to open up our understanding of an altered reality by mixing ancient cultures with imaginary ones,” comments Anan. “Each character brings a message. Each character has a ‘superpower.’ Each character has an exuberant talent. Therefore, EIN SOF is a channel through which unlimited possibilities are streamed.”

The idea behind EIN SOF, the infinite circus, is to recreate a classic talent show that is set in a parallel galaxy where the living beings already inhabit have migrated to a more evolved state. However, these beings from planet EIN SOF have gathered to perform and to present all their wonderful attributes. This will be only the beginning of infinites to come. Moreover, all the characters have Cabalistic letters and messages imprinted on their faces reflecting different emotions and superpowers through the constellation of letters.

Anan's dual upbringing in Colombia and Israel instilled a deep curiosity for the inherent mysticism of everyday Asian and Latin American traditions. Now a visual artist and creative director with a studio in the heart of Mexico City, the maker of parallel universes plumbs the intersection of ritual and popular culture to dream up lush scenographies that buzz with romance, the spirituality of objects, and an interwoven consciousness. 

Her vision is a world unto itself. 

“I love the idea that you can travel in the infinite cosmos if you are submerged in a manipulated space. I am a romantic dreamer, so I guess that to alter reality is a need for me,” adds Anan.

The film’s soundtrack is by Colombian/Canadian music artist Lido Pimienta. Dreambear’s Evan Brown is executive producer and Dreambear is the production company.

Artist Orly AnanCredits

Director: Orly AnanExecutive Producer: Evan BrownProduction Company: DreambearOriginal Soundtrack: Lido PimientaArt Production: Orly Anan StudioDirector of Photography: Salvador AlejandroEditing: Pietro CoppolecchiaLighting Design: Rodrigo Chapa

About Orly Anan - Anan is a Colombian/ Israeli visual artist and art director interested in  the mysticism implicated in everyday life. She is currently experimenting with the intersection of ritual and popular culture, as well as Anthropocosmic Surrealism. Her research has led her to explore the traditions of various countries, from Asia to Latin America, these cultures being her main inspiration. She currently has a studio in Mexico City.

About Dreambear – Dreambear is a contemporary production company and animation studio based in Brooklyn, New York, with production teams in New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, Atlanta, United Kingdom and South America. Dreambear engages with artists all over the world to create impactful visual stories and experiences, building clients’ and artists’ brands through cinematic live action films and cutting edge animation ranging from CGI to stop motion. Dreambear prides itself in curating the next generation of directors and animators for all digital content.

All images and video courtesy of Orly Anan/Dreambear

orlyanan_filmtrailer (Original) from orly anan on Vimeo.