DERVISH MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT IN NEW YORK

“Dervish Mediterranean Restaurant serves authentic mediterranean cuisine in a duplex environment, with mosaic files, warm lighting, and beautiful mahogany bars on the mezzanine level and second floor. An unforgettable Broadway theme mural adorns the wall behind the bar, shouting "The Show Must Go On!" Various menus are available to all friends and patrons for many different settings and occasions, such as the exotic banquet menus for private gatherings and occasions, the savory Bar Menu for those quick visits, our Pre-Theater Three Course. Dinner to prepare you for your show, the Dervish menu for in-house dining, our Children's Menu for the little ones, and our ever popular Take-Out Menu. All of these elements combined with the courteous waiters and bartenders prepare you for an excellent meal and an excellent time. Dervish is also proud to announce the opening of its exquisite, new Banquet Room on the second floor of the restaurant. Boasting luxurious tapestries, cushioned couches, and an undeniable mediterranean flair, the Banquet Room can be used as a lounge, premier party space, or for private cocktail hours. The room is multi-level with a full bar, dance floor, and a drop screen for sports viewing and such. The Banquet Room is just one of the newest additions to the charm of Dervish Restaurant”.

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OGGI MANGIO DA … 83: RESTAURANT CHEZ CAMILLOU

“Un cadre, un service, une atmosphère. En retrait de la route et proche de la nature, le restaurant vous accueille à Aumont-Aubrac dans un décor contemporain et convivial. Karine et son équipe ont su créer une ambiance en harmonie avec la cuisine proposée, mariant charme et modernité. Pantalon ou jupe noire, chemise blanche et tablier gris anthracite, les uniformes du restaurant illustrent ce choix. Repas de groupes, mariages et seminaries Avec ses salles et salons de 25 à 200 personnes et ses menus personnalisés, Chez Camillou est aussi une référence depuis trois générations pour l'organisation de vos banquets de famille et séminaires.”

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LINUS – il suo blog su Radio DEEJAY

“30 ottobre 1957, Foligno (PG). E' la data di nascita "anagrafica" di Pasquale Di Molfetta, in arte Linus.

18 aprile 1976, Milano. E' la data di nascita "radiofonica", il debutto, assolutamente goliardico, in una delle mille piccole radio private nate in quel periodo. In pochi anni però quello che era nato come un gioco si trasforma in un lavoro vero e proprio e dopo due o tre passaggi in emittenti via via più titolate nell’84 arriva a Radio Deejay. E' il settembre di quell'anno, e pochi mesi dopo, in maniera assolutamente imprevista, Linus debutta in televisione con Deejay Television, la fortunata trasmissione di Italia Uno di cui sarà il volto fino alla fine del ’90.

Nel ‘91 nasce Deejay Chiama Italia, il programma radiofonico del mattino che ancora adesso rappresenta il centro del mondo di Linus. Con la fine del ’94 arriva il secondo, grande salto di carriera: Linus diventa il Direttore Artistico di Radio Deejay.

Dal '95 al 2000 è autore e conduttore del PIM (Premio Italiano della Musica), in onda su Italia Uno in compagnia di, fra le altre, Serena Dandini e Paola Cortellesi.

Tra il ’97 e il ’98 conduce insieme al fratello Albertino Volevo Salutare, un contenitore musicale in onda la domenica pomeriggio su Italia Uno. Ma il ‘98 è anche l’anno dell’ingresso di Nicola Savino in Deejay Chiama Italia, un sodalizio più che mai attuale. Datata 2001 è l’unica esperienza autorale “per conto terzi”, quell'anno infatti Linus è autore del programma di Celentano 125 milioni di Cazz…te. Nel febbraio 2002 è protagonista di un’operazione tanto fortunata quanto originale, raggiunge infatti la vetta della classifica dei singoli più venduti in Italia con il progetto Accetta il Consiglio, un monologo cinematografico trasposto in musica. Nell'estate del 2004, in occasione degli gli Europei di calcio, ritorna in televisione con il programma (di cui è anche autore) Notti Europee: I Figli di Eupalla, in onda su RAI 2 in seconda serata per tutta la durata del torneo.

Quell''anno si chiude con l'avventura cinematografica di Natale a casa Deejay, libera trasposizione di A Christmas Carol di Charles Dickens . In maniera del tutto insolita, il film esce direttamente in DVD in edicola e in pochi giorni vengono vendute 200.000 copie! Il successo è tale che durante le vacanze di Natale il film viene trasmesso anche su Canale 5.

Dal 2007 Linus diventa il responsabile dell'intero settore radiofonico del Gruppo L'Espresso, che oltre a Radio Deejay comprende anche Radio Capital e m20.

Nel 2009 assume la direzione artistica del canale televisivo Deejay Tv, nato dalle ceneri della vecchia All Music. In questi anni ha pubblicato tre libri: nel ’96 Linus Chiama Italia, edito da Sperling & Kupfer: una raccolta di fax, piccole storie, curiosità e aneddoti raccontati dagli ascoltatori. Nel 2004 E qualcosa rimane (Mondadori), 26 canzoni che diventano altrettanti racconti, e il 30 ottobre 2007, una ricorrenza particolarmente importante, Qualcuno con cui giocare (Mondadori), il suo esordio narrativo. Settembre 2010 esce Parli sempre di corsa (Mondadori); Linus per la prima volta racconta come è nata la sua grande passione per la corsa: una scoperta che gli ha sconvolto la vita, migliorandola radicalmente, tanto da non poterne più fare a meno.

Attualmente Linus è in onda su Radio Deejay (in diretta anche su Deejay Tv) con Deejay Chiama Italia e Cordialmente… con Elio e le Storie Tese.”

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ARTISTIC RENDERINGS BY DAVID PATTERSON

“I was born in Seattle, Washington in 1952. My family moved to Pullman, Washington in 1953, where I spent the rest of my childhood and young adult years in a small town environment. In 1976 I obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Washington State University, where I specialized in graphic design and photography. I have studied with a number of wonderful artists, including Richard McKinley, Desmond O'Hagan, Susan Ogilvie, Marla Baggetta, Andrew Hofmeister, Gaylen Hansen, Richard Thornton, and Victor Moore. I am a current member of the Northwest Pastel Society and the Photographic Society of America.

ARTIST STATEMENT - My inspirations do not just come from many of the great masters, but from the artists I have studied under during my education. I have also been fortunate to have a mother who also has a BFA from WSU. She was the catalyst for me to pursue my art degree, and is still painting at age 91. Besides my mother, the person who was an early mentor to me was artist/sculptor Victor "Vic" Moore. He was my art instructor for six years in the Pullman School District - when art was still considered curriculum. Most of my work leans towards Realism, and usually conveys an image of calmness or wonder. Though each painting, glass work, or photograph, has a special meaning to me, I want the viewer to walk away with their own emotions from the work - in this way they also become part of the creative process. Many artists are known for one certain style or subject matter. The search to create something different sometimes takes me across a wide variety of styles, medium, and subject matter. My latest art is primarily done using soft pastels, with my paintings being impressionistic landscapes and cityscapes. I've also have a passion for creating glass sculptures/paperweights, and digital photography.”

HERE

VIOLINTIDE - ART AND DESIGN BY DARREN ALEJOS

“Born, raised, and currently residing in the Southwest Chicago area, Darren Alejos subsists on a diet of drawing, art, design, Apple type products, comic books and graphic novels, Nintendo Wii and DS, animation and anime, that wacky internet, (almost) all kinds of music, and bubble tea. Some of his favorite things currently include Eisley, Blankets by Craig Thompson, Mario Kart Wii, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, The Food Network, Denison Witmer, Fables by Bill Willingham, Owly by Andy Runton, Spirited Away, Fruits Basket, The Uncanny X-Men, Mean Girls, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Lost, The Simpsons, Brian K. Vaughn, Joss Whedon, As Tall As Lions, and blue pens.

Please visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/violintide for more of his art and goodies.

And now some quotes he enjoys for one reason or another: "Not knowing everything is all that makes it okay, sometimes." - Neil Gaiman via Delirium

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." -Theodore Roosevelt

"How satisfying it is to leave a mark on a blank surface.   To make a map of my movement, no matter how temporary." -Craig Thompson, Blankets”

HERE

Le sperimentazioni materiche ed emotive in Costanza Zappa

Le sperimentazioni materiche in Costanza Zappa, artista milanese, sono le provocazioni che di volta in volta la stimolano a creare, a decifrare e a svelare a se stessa emozioni interiori contrastanti, forti, sacre, dolci, trasognanti. Il messaggio cambia di continuo dietro i suoi disegni ad acquerello, ad olio, in quelli ad acrilico o nelle sue opere elaborate con materiale di riciclo, così come nei suoi ultimi lavori: stampe di medio formato realizzate con scatti dell’universo digitale, ovvero immagini non ancora codificate, intrappolate nella rete di quella famosa rivoluzione tecnica epocale che ha trasformato il sistema televisivo analogico in digitale. Così nasce “Nuovo mondo”, un dispiegarsi di forme colorate, totalmente inimmaginabili anche se molto reali e si ammira “Tramonto rosso” in grado di emozionare pur essendo configurazione di un programma sopito in un’incompleta sintonizzazione. La mostra si apre alle ore 19.00 del 29 novembre, all’ Atelier Arte e Scienza Milano, un piccolo spazio dall’atmosfera bohémien. Sarà una serata molto varia dove all’arte visiva verrà affiancata la performance di canto lirico di Dinka Ivanovic, che esordirà con un’Ave Maria. (Di Valentina Cavera)

Inaugurazione 29 novembre, ore 19.00. Fino al 12 dicembre. Atelier Arte e Scienza Milano, via Mortara 5.

Info: 3470455787; www.costanza.net

Le sperimentazioni materiche ed emotive in Costanza Zappa

Le sperimentazioni materiche in Costanza Zappa, artista milanese, sono le provocazioni che di volta in volta la stimolano a creare, a decifrare e a svelare a se stessa emozioni interiori contrastanti, forti, sacre, dolci, trasognanti. Il messaggio cambia di continuo dietro i suoi disegni ad acquerello, ad olio, in quelli ad acrilico o nelle sue opere elaborate con materiale di riciclo, così come nei suoi ultimi lavori: stampe di medio formato realizzate con scatti dell’universo digitale, ovvero immagini non ancora codificate, intrappolate nella rete di quella famosa rivoluzione tecnica epocale che ha trasformato il sistema televisivo analogico in digitale. Così nasce “Nuovo mondo”, un dispiegarsi di forme colorate, totalmente inimmaginabili anche se molto reali e si ammira “Tramonto rosso” in grado di emozionare pur essendo configurazione di un programma sopito in un’incompleta sintonizzazione. La mostra si apre alle ore 19.00 del 29 novembre, all’ Atelier Arte e Scienza Milano, un piccolo spazio dall’atmosfera bohémien. Sarà una serata molto varia dove all’arte visiva verrà affiancata la performance di canto lirico di Dinka Ivanovic, che esordirà con un’Ave Maria. (Di Valentina Cavera)

Inaugurazione 29 novembre, ore 19.00. Fino al 12 dicembre. Atelier Arte e Scienza Milano, via Mortara 5.

Info: 3470455787; www.costanza.net

SUSAN McCULLOUGH

“Susan McCullough is an oil painter, painting plein air landscapes as well as large studio paintings. Her plein air landscapes are representational while her studio landscapes are more contemporary, reflecting a heightened sense of color and focus on design. Susan has a passion for painting and solid technique to build an exemplary body of work.

“Plein air painting is the ultimate artistic experience for me as an artist,” says Susan, “this genre of painting is the ultimate learning experience; increasing the skills of drawing, color, design and paint application. In the field, one has to be quick because of the changing light patterns and it is a test of the artist’s painting and drawing skills.”

Susan uses her plein air landscapes to embark on a studio painting adventure, using inspiration from the small paintings to push color and design into large studio paintings. “I use the plein air paintings or ‘studies’ to translate the ideas into large studio works by sketching different scenarios into design sketches, choosing the best elements to produce the desired look for the painting.”

A Colorado native, Susan McCullough has the passion and determination to paint outdoors in all seasons and conditions. She has a superb eye for color, form and light in nature, sharpened by years of observation and painting outdoors. Her deep awareness of the natural world, combined with a sensitive handling of paint, from delicately touched passages to bold strokes with thick paint, results in paintings of depth and inspiration.

Susan belongs to the Plein Air Painters of New Mexico , Plein Air Artists Colorado, and Oil Painters of America. She is represented by Wilder Nightingale in Taos, New Mexico, Art Matters Gallery in Salida, Colorado and Wild Spirit Gallery in Pagosa Springs, Colorado.”

Image by Susan McCullough

HERE

Il libro del giorno: DI ME DIRANNO DI LUCA BENASSI (CFR)

Nelle grandi iconografie tradizionali, riprese dai presepi natalizi, la scena è più o meno quella di un bambinello, quasi sempre sorridente, non certo un neonato ma già con una florida capigliatura e le braccine tese, l’espressione del viso a volte non proprio infantile e sorridente ma piuttosto ieratica, adorato da una madre in preghiera e da un uomo di età indefinita, inginocchiati e piegati su di lui; sullo sfondo un bue e un asino, come sta scritto nei Vangeli.

La scena è edificante ma immobile, astratta, irreale - o forse è la proiezione di una nostalgia collettiva per l’innocenza che viene perduta pian piano nel tempo. Nella vita non accade così e, soprattutto, in quella realtà, descritta dai Vangeli. Non esiste che la puerpera Maria se ne stia tutta beata e serafica dopo i dolori del parto: è una grande ingiustizia verso la sua corporeità, che è dolore – come dicono i testi sacri – lavoro, fatica, fughe, strazio...

La poesia, intensa, di Benassi, sconvolge questi schemi. L’elemento che sovverte quella scenografia tradizionale, con prepotenza, è infatti la fisicità, con la nota insistente del dolore fisico e psichico che, nell’iconografia tradizionale, è totalmente assente. Entra in gioco, in questa sorta di poesia della storia, anche una nota fortissima di de-mistificazione, di presa di distanza da una teologia tutta assorta nei significati trascendentali, dimenticandosi spesso che proprio il corpo è l’unico tramite col divino, tant’è che proprio nell’incarnazione si realizza il principio di ogni teologia (in senso cristiano) e proprio nel parto è il significato primo di ogni eucaristia, perché proprio Maria è la prima sacerdotessa che porta e consacra dentro di sé l’Eucaristia.

Entra in scena anche l’elemento della storia, non tanto come atti o fatti, ma come orizzonte o sce-nografia entro la quale viene collocato il poemetto. È  la storia degli umili, dei semplici, degli ultimi, così che la natività di Cristo, da avvenimento teologico-sacrale, diventa paradigma di ogni natività povera e sconosciuta.

(dalla prefazione di G. Lucini)

THE CAT’S TABLE By Michael Ondaatje (Alfred A. Knopf)

“In the early 1950s, an 11-year-old boy in Colombo boards a ship bound for England. At mealtimes he is seated at the “cat’s table”—as far from the Captain’s Table as can be—with a ragtag group of “insignificant” adults and two other boys, Cassius and Ramadhin. As the ship makes its way across the Indian Ocean, through the Suez Canal, into the Mediterranean, the boys tumble from one adventure to another, bursting all over the place like freed mercury. But there are other diversions as well: One man talks with them about jazz and women, another opens the door to the world of literature. The narrator’s elusive, beautiful cousin Emily becomes his confidante, allowing him to see himself “with a distant eye” for the first time, and to feel the first stirring of desire. Another cat’s table denizen, the shadowy Miss Lasqueti, is perhaps more than what she seems. And very late every night, the boys spy on a shackled prisoner, his crime and his fate a galvanizing mystery that will haunt them forever. As the narrative moves between the decks and holds of the ship and the boy’s adult years, it tells a spellbinding story—by turns poignant and electrifying—about the magical, often forbidden discoveries of childhood and a lifelong journey that begins unexpectedly with a spectacular sea voyage.”

THE AYURVEDA CAFE IN NEW YORK

“Ayurveda is the science of life, a 5,000-year-old traditional holistic system of well-being from India. 'ayur' means 'of life' and Veda' means 'knowledge'. Ayurveda is the knowledge of longevity which offers healing, rejuvenation and self-realization through balanced food, herbs, yoga, massage, aroma, and meditation. Ayurveda teaches us to pay attention to how and what we eat, and to take responsibility for our health. Ayurveda is very clear when it comes to food. Sattvic (pure) food is needed to heal and maintain good health and must incorporate six tastes in every meal: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, astringent and pungent. Modern medical science also recommends a vegetarian diet for good health and prevention of stress-related , health problems. Ayurveda cafe can help you beat stress, increase energy and look great.”.

HERE

OGGI MANGIO DA … 82: CANLIS RESTAURANT

“In March of 1909, President Teddy Roosevelt stayed at the Mena while preparing for his celebrated one-year African safari. Roosevelt needed to hire 200 cooks, stewards, and translators for his adventure. And, in Roosevelt's time of need, Nicholas found his gift. Nicholas could cook. He could steward. He spoke fluent Arabic. He would see Africa, and then perhaps the rest of the world. Roosevelt hired him on; clearly, this was the opportunity of a lifetime. Eventually, he reached Ellis Island with an Egyptian passport. The K in Kanlis was changed to a C—the Canlis name had arrived in America. Eventually, Nicholas Canlis moved west and married a young immigrant beauty, Susan, whose natural affinity for the flavors and aromas of the old country were embraced by her new husband. Together, they opened the first-generation Canlis restaurant in Stockton, California. Mama ran the front and Papa ran the back. Nick's eldest son, Peter, became their reluctant apprentice. In the late 1930s, Peter Canlis struck out on his own, heading to Hawaii to sell dry goods. During World War II, his knowledge of food and his shrewd purchasing skills led to an offer to manage the United Services Organization's Honolulu food service operations. Soon everyone on Oahu knew that the best meal to be had in Hawaii was at the USO. After the war, Peter remained in Hawaii and opened his first restaurant, The Broiler, a ten-table sidewalk restaurant in Waikiki. In 1950, Peter Canlis moved to Seattle and opened the restaurant that was to put his mark on the nation's fine dining scene. He chose a magnificent view location just three miles north of the city center, and, with characteristic vision, hired up-and-coming architect Roland Terry to make his vision a reality. Terry is now widely known as the father of Northwest architecture; his sweeping and timeless design—marked by a great stone fireplace, a span of angled windows to capture the views, and a glistening copper charcoal broiler placed in the middle of the dining room—continues to impress guests today with its alluring mix of stunning outlooks and elegantly tranquil spaces. Even the kitchen was intentionally left exposed to the dining room, a daring and cutting-edge design choice that visually launched Canlis ahead of its time. Among many firsts, Peter Canlis is credited with being the first restaurateur to utilize team-style service in his dining room; his influence in the kitchen also made him a pioneer in the field of what is now called Northwest cuisine. And instead of employing waiters in customary tuxedos, he employed graceful kimono-clad waitresses who transformed customer service into an art form. The result of these ingenious decisions was a very popular restaurant indeed; "in the know" Seattleites, along with movie stars and wealthy international travelers, became Canlis regulars, just as discerning diners at the forefront of modern cuisine frequent the restaurant today. Sixty years later, Peter Canlis's architectural and culinary jewel is marvelously run by the next generation of family restaurateurs, Mark and Brian, who were preceded by their parents, Chris and Alice. Together, the family has preserved the traditions of this famous landmark while adding their creativity and energy to the vision of Canlis that has been a constant source of inspiration since the restaurant's storied beginnings.

(And if you're wondering about the third son in these photographs, it's the oldest brother Matt—a minister in Scotland, a father of four, and the restaurant's official Chaplain and Whiskey Consultant.)”

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BLEEDING COOL

“Welcome to BleedingCool.com – the new blogsite written by Rich Johnston and friends. This site will not so much pull back the curtains of the comic book industry, as give you a series of upskirt shots. But as well as news, rumours and gossip, there will be reviews, previews, features, interviews, videos, columns and a place for comic book readers to call their own. Whatever your tastes from mini comics by Sean Appozardi to blockbuster events by Geoff Johns, from the Guardianista middle class commentary of Posy Simmonds to the righteous right hook of Chuck Dixon, from Rob Liefeld’s cankles to Robert Crumb’s thighs, from Frank Quitely’s OctoMumLips to Frank Cho’s shapely hips, you’re welcome here. More than that, I need you. I can’t be everywhere all the time. Hell, I’m stuck in the outskirts of London for a start. But, en masse, you can be. Keep your eyes and ears open. Point out any loose threads and I’ll start pulling. Because everyone in comics knows something, whether found in the dark online, corners, overheard in a comic shop, shared over drinks at a comic convention or found in the dumpsters at 1700 Broadway, that other comic readers would love to know. And here is where you can share it all. Those that do will get points, kudos, and special credentials on the forum. And the knowledge of a job well done.

So please, be my Little Bleeders. Register for the forum, bookmark the site, start making a difference. This is our medium, let’s have some fun with it.

After all, isn’t that what comics are for?

Rich Johnston

8 Robin Hood Lane, Kingston Vale, London SW15 3PU, United Kingdom

07801350982, 011447801350982, richjohnston@gmail.com

Twitter: RichJohnston, AIM: TwistRich, Down the pub on a Thursday night.”

HERE

LABNA – AMORE IN CUCINA

“Manuel - Sono Manuel, non sono cuoco, ma tutti hanno una cucina in casa e penso (spero) che tutti l’abbiano usata almeno una volta! Ho deciso di fare un blog di cucina per me e per tutte le persone a cui piace usare i fornelli, per quelli che hanno fantasia in cucina, per tutti quelli che pensano che il cibo sia almeno uno dei primi tre piaceri della vita!

Una volta una persona mi ha detto: “molte persone impiegano le loro energie lavorando duro e poi usano i loro soldi per mangiare fuori, dove c’è uno che consuma la sua energia cucinando per gli altri… poca gente usa la propria energia per preparare qualche cosa che tornerà a lui stesso”.

A parte queste considerazioni da santone della montagna, penso che sia molto bello cucinare per se stessi: quando mangi sai che ti stai facendo una coccola, e non c’è niente di più bello che sentirsi coccolati sinceramente! Viviamo la cucina e la cucina ci premierà: nessuno è nato “imparato”, ma l’esperienza insegna!

Jasmine - Se Manuel non è un cuoco, tanto meno potrei vantarmi di esserlo io: molto di quello che so fare l’ho imparato da lui.  Tuttavia, sono qui a scrivere perchè credo profondamente nell’idea dello Chef Gusteau nel film Ratatuille (Pixar 2007): tout le monde peut cuisiner. Sono convinta che non ci sia ostacolo che non si possa superare con un po’ di buona volontà e di passione per il proprio obiettivo: io, per esempio, ho bruciato pentolini di caramello infinite volte, ma continuerò a tentare fino a quando non riuscirò nel mio intento, o fino a quando non finirà lo zucchero.

Sono una lettrice di food blogs da quando i primi pazzi foodies americani si sono lanciati in Rete per mostrare i più svariati intrugli, le più astruse ricette alla blogosfera: ora sarò in grado, mi domando, di passare dall’altra parte dello schermo, di essere insomma quella che scrive invece di quella che legge?  Lo spero proprio.

Garantisco che ce la metterò tutta, perchè come diceva non so quale scrittrice la cucina è come l’amore: devi farlo con tutto te stesso o rinunciare; il che poi, in parole più povere, è il principio di labna.it: l’amore in cucina..”

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LAURIE JUSTUS PACE

“As splintering light fractions into thousands of colors, Laurie’s journey in life has encompassed many careers from runway model to graphic artist, from musician to singer, from teacher to artist. She believes the greatest influence in her life is the beauty God provides daily. A degree in Art, eight years with an advertising agency, and twenty-five years teaching art has come full circle to top honors yearly at international art shows in oil, watercolor and photography. Viewing a Laurie Justus Pace painting is a rich experience that drips with color and emotion.  Her passionate works are alive with movement, boldly created with a wide brush and a palette knife.  She loves working with oils, dramatically carving out the paint and transferring her energy to the canvas and ultimately on to the viewer. Pareidolia is the name for what happens when Ms. Pace gazes at her thickly applied strokes of oil paint and begins to visualize equine forms.  It's the same term used to describe the phenomena of seeing animals in clouds or faces in the moon.

Laurie is a co-founder of four working groups of artists, Contemporary Fine Art International, Artists of Texas, Daily Painters of Texas and the Five Graces.  She is an associate member of WAOW and the Oil Painters of America, The American Watercolor Society, Daily Painters, International Equine Artists and Professional Published Fine Artists. She is a listed artist on askart.com and artprice.com. She has exhibited and showed through out the world. Private collectors, senators, ambassadors and large corporations select her work to decorate their homes and offices.

Her artwork has been published and featured in numerous magazines, newspapers and books. She has been a featured artist in Western Art Collector, Appaloosa Journal, American Art Collector, the HITS on the Hudson Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix and in Cowboys and Indians. Her work has been published on the covers of Appaloosa Journal, The Appaloosa Mountain Directory, and The Sight Hound Magazine as well as several yearbooks, publications and CD music covers.

You can find her paintings in The Rare Gallery, Jackson Hole, Wyoming; The Dutch Art Gallery, Dallas, Texas; Earthworks Art Gallery, New York; SR Gallery, Hong Kong; Our House Gallery, California; and Mirada Fine Art, Denver, Colorado.

Pace resides in Mt Vernon, Texas with her husband Terry, and two Kerry Blue Terriers Annie and Paddy.”

Read more

A LOOK IN A CREATIVE MIND BY TJLUBRANO

“Who am I? Why did I start this blog? Who am I?...oh wait. I already asked that. Let's us start with that one, it's a persistent question indeed.

First Question: Who is TJ?

Tadaa! That is me! Yes. that was pretty obvious.

The very first ‘About me’ page started with this: "So, at the moment I'm a Master Sociology student with many hobbies (hopefully I can edit this soon in GRADUATED!)."...

Yeah, when I wrote this page for the first time, back in 2009, I was a Master Sociology student. Things happened and decision had to be made. I'm someone who usually pulls through even though things may get difficult. So when I felt that it was time to end my studies, I just didn't have the courage to do so. But I kept hitting my head on a rock and even though it was a very difficult decision, it was the right one to make! If you’re interested to know more, do have a read: Time For A Change. Other than that nothing has really changed though. I still love being creative and to cook & bake things. I'm still drawing, writing and making sketches. Only change now is that I can call myself an artist, an illustrator. I am chasing my dreams and doing the best I can to fulfill them. I am truly grateful for this!

Second question: Why did I start this blog?

Truth is...it was a random action on a random day. I did write a post about it...somewhere in the past. You can find it here. But I didn't have a plan in mind nor did I know what I would do with it. I only had this vague idea that I would post some occasional doodles on it. The occasional doodles became permanent from the start hehe. I can't imagine a post without a quick sketch and I guess that is the only thing consistent on my blog. I like to tell stories and random observations from my life. In other words...I ramble about a lot of things. I hope you will enjoy it!

Have to say, blogging gave me so many new opportunities and chances. It gave me new perspective and the courage to pursue what I love the most and that is illustrating. In a short amount of time, I got to know a lot of cool and sweet people! I only hope this will continue and I will do my best to keep my blog entertaining and interesting. I also got featured and interviewed, to read them just stroll to the Testimonial page.

Third question: What is your drawing style?

The drawing style I use for most illustrations is called a chibi style. It’s a word used for a Japanese drawing style and in general it means cute little people. I tend to transform people I know into chibi's and throughout the blog you will see a bunch of friends transformed into one (e.g. the Happy Birthday posts in October 2009). I transformed myself and my siblings in one as well. Every now and then I will post drawings in slightly more...ehm what shall I call it...a 'mature' drawing style. The characters are more mature and well I have to use more drawing techniques.

You can read several posts to get to know more about me. If you want that is, no pressure (read...read it all...read I say...)

Let's continue.

To get to know a bit more about the subject of my Master thesis, I suggest to have a look at the following post. I didn’t finish it, but the subject was quite interesting:

What's my thesis about?

To get to know more about my love for art, have a look at this:

Why I didn't choose Arts when I was younger.

Just Keep Doodling

To have a sneak peek at my desk, have a look at this post (I need to update this as my desk changed over time!):

My Desk, a natural mess.

Last but not least, I answered a couple of questions from quizzes and told a bunch of random things about myself. These posts can be found here, here and here.

Since my content varies so much, I can only suggest to browse through my blog and read whatever appeals to you. Or just look at the drawings haha. You can also go to my Flickrstream for this.

Feel free to leave comments on older posts and if you have questions, I suggest you have a look at the given comments. Maybe I already answered a few questions. If not, you can leave a comment. I reply to all my comments. And if you're still worried that I won't reply to them...just send me an email tjlubrano@live.com ^_^.”

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Il libro del giorno: Gli occhi di mia figlia di Vittoria Coppola (Lupo editore). Consigliato da Gianluca Pasca

Quale ruolo gioca il destino nello svolgersi della nostra esistenza? E quanto di “nostro” c’è invece nell’imboccare strade sbagliate che porteranno inevitabilmente all’infelicità?

In questa storia di “non detti”, in cui egoismi e fragilità vanno a comporre un perfetto, perverso incastro, è rappresentato il misterioso e contraddittorio universo dei sentimenti umani: non basta essere genitori per saper comprendere i propri figli ed amarli come meritano; non basta essere giovani e di cuore aperto per essere pronti ad affrontare la vita, né essere innamorati per non farsi complici della propria ed altrui sofferenza.

Dana, pur nei privilegi di ragazza circondata da benessere e raffinatezza, è soffocata dalla coltre iperprotettiva di una madre che ha deciso il suo futuro, ma la sua passione per André, fascinoso pittore di donne senza sguardo, si rivela una fuga più grande della sua acerba giovinezza, incapace di reggere all’infrangersi di un sogno. Armando, l’uomo che le offre un amore devoto e remissivo, nasconde un segreto destinato ad esplodere in modo bruciante.

Eppure esistono legami che sopravvivono al tempo e sono pronti a riservare luminose sorprese, nei giochi del caso e nel risveglio di coscienze troppo a lungo sopite.

Una storia di solitudini e di scelte, nella quale regge sovrana la solidità dell’amicizia, l’unica che non tradisce.

VITTORIA COPPOLA - Ha 26 anni, vive a Taviano (Le). Laureata in Lingue e Letterature Straniere, Comunicazione Linguistica Interculturale  (Università del Salento, luglio 2010). Attualmente lavora come receptionist presso un albergo di Gallipoli (Le). La passione assoluta che muove le sue giornate è la scrittura. Di questo dice: “Lo scopo che mi prefiggo nel momento in cui inizio a riempire pagine di parole e sentimenti, è quello di emozionare, regalando a chi mi privilegia “leggendomi,” attimi personalissimi di evasione dalla realtà, ma anche, perché no, arricchimento della stessa. Confido sempre nella bellezza dei sentimenti e perciò, quando qualcuno reputa banale il parlare d’amore, io sorrido, e vado avanti per la mia strada”.

CANTI By Giacomo Leopardi. Translated and annotated by Jonathan Galassi (Farrar, Straus and Giroux)

“Giacomo Leopardi is Italy’s greatest modern poet, the first European writer to portray and examine the self in a way that feels familiar to us today. A great classical scholar and patriot, he explored metaphysical loneliness in entirely original ways. Though he died young, his influence was enormous, and it is no exaggeration to say that all modern poetry, not only in Italian, derives in some way from his work. Leopardi’s poetry is notoriously difficult to translate, and he has been less well known to English-language readers than his central significance for his own culture might suggest. Now Jonathan Galassi, whose translations of Eugenio Montale have been widely acclaimed, has produced a strong, fresh, direct version of this great poet that offers English-language readers a new approach to Leopardi. Galassi has contributed an informative introduction and notes that provide a sense of Leopardi’s sources and ideas. This is an essential book for anyone who wants to understand the roots of modern lyric poetry…”

LA ZARZA RESTO LOUNGE

“La Zarza Resto Lounge, a lively, sophisticated tavern in New York's perennially hip East Village is a destination that intertwines indigenous Argentinean and Spanish cuisine and culture and offers guests a rare combination of eclectic food, global sounds and cosmopolitan style.

The multifaceted menu pairs unexpected and unique flavors, colors and textures to develop truly contemporary yet authentic Argentinean and Spanish specialties. Featuring small and large plates, the menu showcases a wide range of ingredients and flavors to satisfy any palate, now offering also organic, vegetarian and very healthy options. Signature appetizers include the Almond Stuffed Dates wrapped with Argentinean Smoked Bacon, Costillas de Cordero(lamb ribs in Chimichurri sauce), Carpaccio de Bife(with baby arugula, capers, shaved pecorino, lemon and extra virgin olive oil), Pastelitos de cangrejo(Crispy crab cakes, with jicama slaw, and avocado mousse) and super fresh Ceviches. As a fresh and cool touch for the hot season, the menu features amazing exotic options, as the Salmon Tartar served with Black Sesame ice cream or the Watermelon Salad(Organic baby spinach, watermelon, fennel, pecans, honey white wine vinaigrette).

No homage to Argentinean cuisine would be complete without slow cooked steaks like the Entrana Gaucha (Grilled Skirt Steak) or a Parrillada (Assortment of grilled chorizo, morcilla, skirt steak, lamb rib, sweetbreads). Signature Spanish dishes include the Paella de la Zarza (Valencian dish, Calasparra rice, lobster, shrimps, clams, mussels, scallops, calamari, chicken, pork), The Gambas con Ajo(Sautéed shrimps, garlic, parsley and chili peppers) and the entire Tapas menu offered at the bar every day until 9pm. 

As a contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the appetizers and entrees, the dessert menu offers sweet indulgences like the Panqueques (caramelized Dulce Del Leche crepes finished with juicy blackberries), a favorite Argentinean pastry, Alfajores de Maizena (Homemade cookies filled with delicious caramel, dulce de leche, rolled in coconut), Molten Cake(Warm chocolate cake with caramelized peaches and vanilla ice cream topped with Godiva White Chocolate Liquor (add $4) and the Churros(A classic from Spain and from La Zarza, golden brown and crispy fried dough filled with warm chocolate and coated with a cinnamon sugar)

A unique customized sangria menu offers guests the combination of wine and seasonal fresh fruit mixtures. Seasonal fruits and purees are blended with different varietals to create unique sangria and clericos that complement the distinctive flavors of the cuisine. Proud of been pioneers on the make your own sangria style. The extensive wine list is a compilation of smooth reds and crisp whites from Argentina and Spain, carefully selected to further enrich the culinary adventure.

For this hot summer we now offer Pitchers of Mojito and Margarita for just $45!

The harmonious combination of cultures is housed in a candle-lit, rustic space with chocolate brown walls, and Spanish inspired decor, accompanied  by sweet and sexy tunes in the background.”.

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