Lies Maculan’s “Opens” The Dream Shop

Now admittedly my expectations were quite low for this event.  Gallery openings are often a bit of a snooze fest for me, but as I entered the doors something inside told me this was not going to be that type of affair.  Maybe it was crossing paths with Countess Luann de Lessepsas as she was making her grand departure or my immediate notice of  the statuesque Erin Fetherston with her signature blond tresses.  Or the crowd filled with artsy eccentrics and other “in-crowd” types without the snootyness and pretension.   Though, I think it was because I was pleased to see the bar was not overflowing with free-loaders.  Almost immediately, I made my way over to entertain the bored servers, and by entertain I mean ask for a drink, and opted for a Bellini which knocked me off of my feet.  But fortunately for me there was an oddly placed seating arrangement furnished by the modern designs gurus of Bo-Concept.

When I finally pulled myself together and stopped seeing double I ventured to check out the exhibit of Lies Maculan’s  work and all interesting paintings/installations.  The installation was of life-sized photographs that were comprised of objects and human beings that represent our subconscious thoughts, deep I know.  Where a plane represents “Independence.”  While some were more literal,  “Have balls” represented by two golf balls.  Other notable images included “The perfect husband” who holds a mop and bucket in one hand and a briefcase in the other.  I like the way this girl thinks and a  piece that touched on the now socially acceptable plastic surgery epidemic, “Reinvent Yourself” was an image of a well structured woman who’s  face was replaced by a mirror.   And then there was my personal favorite, “Speak Your Mind“  that showcased a wooden hand with its middle finger up, it had been that type of day.

I found myself tempted for another drink and realized it was time to go.  Great art, cool people and an over successful party.

The Dream Shop, a photo-realistic room installation by Lies Maculan(30 West 21 Street (b/w 5th and 6th Avenues) runs through end of March.

Cheers, Jenaya Singleton

Images from the event

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TFR Attends: USA Network Character Approved Awards

(Image thanks to binsidetv)

I braved the bitter snowstorm and walked for what felt like miles, this past  Thursday to attend the USA Network and Vanity Fair Character Approved cocktail reception at the iconic IAC building. Though, a look inside provided no indication of the snowstorm that was happening outside as guest cheerily sipped bubbly, enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres, and mingled among the notable crowd of famous faces.

The invite only awards gala was hosted by USA’s Mark Feuerstein, celebrated “characters” who are “top of their game,” said Chris McCumber, USA executive vice president.  And, who are “making an impact on our culture today,” he further explained. The character chosen are from very fast fields but are celebrated by their peers, for their ability to inspire and influence the masses with fresh ideas.

Invited guests didn’t let the snowstorm get in their way of celebrating these luminaries.   Snow be damn, because it didn’t keep  many from attending the party.  The IAC building was surprisingly packed with guests and bustling with excitement despite the undeniably bad weather; and, just for coming, guest were treated to a special performance from Green Day’s “American “Idiot” ahead of the show’s Broadway debut on Wednesday, March 24.

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