6/12/10

DR. SEUSS WAS A KINK!

check out my fave scene from THE 5000 FINGERS OF DR. T. circa 1953.

the S&M connotations in the clip are impossible to deny.

PIN-UP


(Sasha, studio) 2003 NYC- photo courtesy- Richard Taddei)

DRINK TEA, LIVE FOREVER


(photo courtesy- joey terrill)

it's been well established that i love tea. we all know i drink tea every day and offer tea to my customers, collectors, friends & neighbors every day at antebellum.

besides having a fetish for tea i would like to point out the tremendous health benifits from drinking tea, so i've reposted the article from -
DR. MAOSHING NI-

Tea: THE ELIXIR OF A LONG LIFE
Lengthen your years, starting with this one simple tip: drink more tea. Delicious, low-calorie and brimming with antioxidants, tea is one of the most commonly enjoyed beverage by centenarians around the world, second only to water. Even in the US, its popularity is rapidly growing. With the healthy longevity benefits you stand to gain, you too will want to drink up.


What is tea and what makes it so healthy?
Technically speaking, "tea" is the dried and processed leaves of Camellia sinensis, a tree that is indigenous to Asia. There are four main varieties of tea: black, oolong, green, and white tea. (Yellow and pu-erh are two other varieties of tea, but are not as widespread.)

Black tea, produced when tea leaves undergo an oxidizing process that turns the leaves black, has the strongest flavor and the highest caffeine content -- about one third the caffeine you would get from the same cup of coffee. Oolong tea is slightly less oxidized and has less caffeine. Green tea is steamed, rolled and dried immediately after harvest, which halts the oxidation process, allowing the leaves to retain their green color. White tea undergoes the least processing -- the young tea buds are picked and air-dried. All of these varieties have different health benefits, with green tea and white tea leading the pack.
READ MORE-

6/8/10

DIAMANDA GALAS


this year is the 20 year anniversary of POSITIVE~ a groundbreaking doco about diamanda galas & the AIDS crisis in NYC.
my how times have changed?

i met diamanda way back in 1992 thru my dear departed friend george byron, (aka mommy) and the in 2001, i had the pleasure of being part of the MIDSUMMA FESTIVAL in melbourne, australia with the diva.

PIN-UP


photo courtesy- gay boys with beards

MANFRED MUGLER



the RARE original directors, (thierry mugler) cut of too funky for george michaels, circa 1992.

in 1992, george michaels asked thierry mugler to direct a video for his song- too funky. the video was supposed to be a caricature of a runway show. their were huge creative differences between george and thierry~ to the point that the butchered to death commercial release of the video says- "directed by ?."

the models and actors are a who's who of fashion from the early nineties, including my NYC friends- JOEY ARIAS & LAUREN PINE!

here's a collection of thierry's art throughout the years~












Thierry Mugler- born 1948 in Strasbourg, France, is a fashion designer, photographer, and creator of a fashion design company of the same name.

Mugler's early training was as a ballet dancer, but he also studied design and created garments for friends at the same time. He moved to Paris in 1970 and worked as a window-dresser, designing clothing "on the side". He launched his first line Café de Paris in 1973, and founded his own label for women two years later, to be followed by designs for men in 1978.

Mugler's work over the next two decades had a style that was very much of its time: Shoulders were wide and padded; waists were wasp-like. Prints were banished: Mugler's clothes came in solid, dominating colours. Collars had exaggerated points or flamelike cutouts. The insect kingdom was a constant influence, as were the people of film noir. In his most extreme runway garments, PVC was often used, as were space and robot themes.

He has published two books of his fashion designs and photography, Thierry Mugler (1988) and Fashion Fetish Fantasy (1998).

In 1992, Mugler directed the video for George Michael's single, "Too Funky," featuring a parade of Mugler fashions.

More recently, Mugler collaborated with Cirque du Soleil on its 2003 show "Zumanity" at the New York New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. This is Cirque du Soleil's first show for an adult audience.

Mugler was the primary costume designer for Beyoncé Knowles' latest concert tour, I Am... Tour. Knowles selected Mugler for the position after becoming enamoured with several examples of his work at New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute's "Superheroes" exhibit in May, 2008. He has signed on to create a 58-piece wardrobe for Knowles, her dancers and band for the tour. Mugler's input will extend to the role of "creative advisor". He will contribute to designing the entire show, from lighting to choreography, directing three of the portions of the production.
mugler's designs have been wore by every iconic model, actress and actor with any sense of fashion, currently lady gaga also wears his costumes.

(i was a dresser, ( jeff stryker no less) for this once-in-a-life-time APLA event, and my dear friend's LAUREN PINE & TONY WARD modeled)

mugler retired from fashion in the late 90s stating- "The reason I quit fashion was that I had had enough of spending time always being on my knees, making other people look amazing and fabulous. I used fashion to express myself as much as I could. But at some point it was not enough."


since then, Mugler's been spending his time off weight training and doing a lot of body modification.
his new figure is known as MANFRED MUGLER.

(manfred (thierry) mugler today)

6/7/10

PIN-UP




Model "Garrett Rau" Wearing leonardoaguirre Swimsuit and legging by Leonardo Aguirre

BROWN DERBY GRAPEFRUIT CAKE


(photo by Amy Neunsinger)

after all our klaus nomi tarts from saturday, i'm on a sweetie fetish high.
this grapefruit cake from the original brown derby looks sooooo yummy, i just had to repost the recipe

THE BROWN DERBY GRAPEFRUIT CAKE

Kicking off her project is the exquisite Brown Derby Grapefruit Cake. As there are many online recipes purporting to be the original, Gordon worked hard to research the confection’s history. Eventually, she honed in on a recipe that both honors the spirit of the classic while adding new vitality with fresh ingredients.

Other pastries in the pipeline: the Bullock’s Wilshire Tea Room’s Coconut Cream Pie, Chasen’s Banana Shortcake and Blum’s Lemon Crunch Cake. And the retro list is sure to expand. “I’d be happy to take suggestions from fans of classic Los Angeles—and California—desserts,” Gordon says. Sweet.

You can reach her at 213-739-8149

by Valerie Gordon of Valerie Confections

Serves: 12–15
Special Equipment: offset spatula, paring knife, cake stand, two 9–inch cake pans, parchment paper, wire rack

Cake
1 2/3 cups flour
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 eggs
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
3 tablespoons water
1/4 cup canola oil
1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon grapefruit juice
1 tablespoon grapefruit zest
1 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Preheat oven to 325. Prepare two 9-inch cake pans. Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Separate eggs. Beat egg white and cream of tartar to a stiff peak and set aside. Beat yolks until fluffy and pale yellow. Combine water, oil, grapefruit juice and fruit zests. Slowly stream water mixture into egg yolks. Fold egg-yolk mix into egg-white mix. Incrementally add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Pour mixed batter into cake pans. Bake 20 minutes then rotate and bake an additional 25 minutes. Let cool completely.

Frosting
1/3 cup butter (room temperature)
1 1/4 cups cream cheese (room temperature)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon grapefruit zest
1 3/4 teaspoon grapefruit juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

With paddle attachment, beat softened butter on medium setting until smooth. Add cream cheese and mix until thoroughly blended. Add powdered sugar in 1/4-cup increments, making sure it’s thoroughly incorporated after each addition. Add zest, juice and extract.

Candied-Grapefruit Garnish
2 pink grapefruit
5–6 cups water
2 cups sugar
2 cups water
1/2 cup sugar

Prepare one day in advance (or up to a week ahead). Cut ends off grapefruit to create flat surface on both sides. Cut peel off grapefruit in even strips from top to bottom, including only a small portion of pith. Blanch peel in 5–6 cups boiling water until peel softens, about 3 minutes. Drain and pat dry. Create simple syrup by boiling 2 cups sugar and 2 cups water. Add blanched peel to simple syrup and return to boil. Reduce heat to low and cover surface with parchment paper. Candying process takes about 30 minutes; peel is finished when translucent. Drain candied zest onto wire rack and cool. Dredge zest in sugar and let sit overnight. Store in airtight container. Makes more than is necessary for the recipe. Reserve balance for snacking.

Finishing the Cake
Using a sharp knife, segment two grapefruit. Place one cake on cake stand and using an offset spatula, evenly spread 1/3 cup of frosting across its surface. Arrange fruit segments from one grapefruit evenly on frosted surface. Spread 1/3 cup frosting on top of second cake. Carefully stack cakes by inverting frosted side of second cake on top of first. Gently press top so the two layers stack evenly. Frost exterior using remainder of frosting. Slice two pieces candied grapefruit into 1/3-inch strips, then cut strips in opposite direction to create small squares. Arrange remaining grapefruit segments along circumference of cake. Sprinkle candied grapefruit squares between segments. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
READ MORE-

ART FOR DOGS


Gallery Meltdown is very excited to present "A MUTE OF HOUNDS", a show of dog inspired art work by 50 amazing artists, to benefit the dogs of Downtown Dog Rescue.

20% of all sales of artwork will be donated to Downtown Dog Rescue
sunset Blvd, LA, CA 90046

Gallery Meltdown Presents
"A Mute of Hounds"

Opening June 12, 2010 from 6-9 pm.
On view from June 12-June 26, 2010.


The Downtown Dog Rescue (DDR) is the only program in California, and possibly the United States, specifically founded to assist homeless dog owners spay/neuter, vaccinate, license their dogs, as well as offer a variety of services including crisis care for the life of the dog. Each year Downtown Dog Rescue assists in rescuing over 300 dogs, mostly American Pit bull Terriers and other Power Breeds that often die in the shelters mostly due to unresolved behavioral issues. Each dog we rescue is socialized with other dogs, evaluated for aggression, sterilized, vaccinated and micro-chipped before the dog is adopted out.
We administer innovative programs in various communities in Los Angeles to promote responsible pet ownership, empower individuals to become pet welfare advocates and provide opportunities for compassionate dog lovers (friends, volunteers and donors) to make a difference in the lives of people and "downtown" dogs.

List of Artists:

Chet Zar Nicole Bruckman
Bob Dornberger Jeremy Cross
Randy Ulrey Sarah Freeman
Jessica Ward Matt Key
Hilary Key Doug Alvarez
Mikolai Wyszynski Christopher Umana
Julianna Swaney Micah Chambers-Goldberg
Paul Torres Kelly Vivanco
Dan Barry Edward Robin Coronel
Chris Stangl Jason Rudolph Pena
Cate Rangel Sara Haase
Alex Willan Guy Ellis
Jose Carabes Apricot Mantle
Terri Berman Kelly Thompson
Alice Pine Brian Smith
Lacey O Clemens Ron Pete
Liza Corbett Ben Kehoe
Stephen Silver Kirsten Huntley Gabbe
Jeremy Enecio Stephen Fishwick
Leslie Levings Eunice Choi
David Arnn Stix and Jones
Ted Von Heiland Casey Weldon
Alina Chau Melissa Contreras
Heidi Taillefer Jim Higgins
Patrick Hammerlin Yvonne Wang
Rick Castro
Timothy Vermeulen



In this 1 hour 30 minute seminar followed by a 30 minute Q & A.Brandon Fouche will explain the basics of "The Fouche Way" and how it applies to aggression, leash-pulling, and becoming alpha. Brandon has saved the lives of hundreds of dogs by taking "hopeless cases" from city shelters and turning them into loving adoptable dogs. Brandon is proud to be the dog behaviorist and rehabilitator for the major rescue organizations in LA and surrounding areas. Brandon believes that his proven and effective method of communicating and connecting with dogs can be practiced by anyone. For further information on Brandon Fouche and The Fouche Way, please visit his website http://brandonfouche.com Please DO NOT bring your dog, this time. Please DO bring a donation for the dogs.

Thursday, June 17, 7 pm - 9 pm, Lecture and Q&A with acclaimed dog behaviorist Brandon Fouche, suggested item or cash donation for the dogs

· Saturday, June 19, 11 am - 3 pm, Adoption day with dogs from Downtown Dog Rescue, in parking lot behind Meltdown

· Saturday, June 26, 2 pm-4 pm, Tiny dog comic book character costume contest and Donation Drive for DDR
(Bring your dog dressed as your favorite comic book character along with a donation for Downtown Dog Rescue)
* Prizes will be awarded ***small dogs only please
sponsored by
BlueCollar Supplies For Working Dogs,1533 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026 213.977.9042

The gallery will be accepting the following donations for the rescue during these events:

1. Dog food adult dry kibble lamb + rice
2. Martingale style collars in small and medium
3. Medium size simple style dog beds to go in crates
4. Medium to Large size Nylabones
5. Raw hide chips
6. Monetary donations
*** Donations for Downtown Dog Rescue can also be made online at http://www.downtowndogrescue.org/donate.htm
or a check can be mailed to Downtown Dog Rescue P O Box 5280 North Hollywood, CA 91616


for more info-
nicole.bruckman@gmail.com
www.gallerymeltdown.com

LITTLE JOE


ANTEBELLUM presents~
LITTLE JOE MAGAZINE
A magazine about queers and cinema, mostly.

premiere issue #1

LOS ANGELES LAUNCH PARTY

in person~ SAM ASHBY

june 12th
5pm~ 7pm

Little Joe is a new biannual publication looking at film from a different perspective. It is a direct move away from the traditional method of reviewing all current and future releases towards a more selective and eclectic focus on films that inspire alternative discourse.

Featuring interviews with directors Jack Hazan (A Bigger Splash) and Tom Kalin (Swoon, Savage Grace), a profile of experimental pornographer Fred Halsted by artist William E Jones, essays on films including American Gigolo, Cruising, Song of the Loon, stunning photographs of cult actress Karen Black by filmmaker Cam Archer, and specially commissioned artworks by Stuart Sandford, Yvan Martinez and Joshua Trees.




Contributors: Cam Archer, Jack Barnes, Paul Burston, RICK CASTRO, Fritz Haeg, Stuart Henderson, William E Jones, Hynam Kendall, Michael Linington, Feargus O’Sullivan, William Maltese, Yvan Martinez, Frederico Pellacin, Ryan Powell, John David Rhodes, Stuart Sandford, Joshua Trees.



80 pages, 139 x 210mm, Risograph printing. Edition of 500.

order your advance copy

antebellum@earthlink.net

antebellum
1643 n las palmas ave
hollywood, ca 90028
323 856-0667
www.antebellum.us.ms
antebellum@earthlink.net

PiN-UP


photo courtesy~ Walt Cessna

NARCISISSY EXTENDED

if you were one of the few people to miss opening night of NARCISISSY~ a collaborative art exhibition by BARRY MORSE, you are in luck. the exhibition has been extended thru may 30th.
here is a little clip by sex artiste interviewing AUNT CONNIE, the aunt of the artist and guest docent.


NARCISISSY~ a collaborative art exhibition by BARRY MORSE, open- wednesday thru saturday- 1-7pm

ANTEBELLUM
1643 n las palmas ave
hollywood, ca 90028
323 856-0667
www.antebellum.us.ms
antebellum@earthlink.net

6/6/10

FOXY PAM


what a fun day, after the klaus nomi tart contest, KATE & i took in a screening of two classics staring screen legend
PAM GRIER-
FOXY BROWN, (1974-jack hill) and JACKIE BROWN, (1997- quentin tarentino) at THE AMERICAN CINEMATHEQUE.
pam was on hand to sign her new book, FOXY: MY LIFE IN THREE ACTS," (Hachette Book Group). she looked absolutely cool & hot at the same time, not bad for a mere 62 years of age. how does she do that?


(pam grier- age 62)

it was so sweet to see kate squirm when she finally met her idol face to face, and pam was just nice as punch. she even drew a little heart next to her signature.

pam did a little intro and chat that was so natural and entertaining. with candor and amusing stories about her life and career, it only makes sense that she would became iconic. pam is an original. there is no one else like her. a treasure.


("blacksplotation film at is best!)



the films were fantastic of course. foxy brown being a "blacksplotation" classic with the best clothes and hair-don'ts for the women and the men.

jackie brown, tarantino's masterpiece, (my opinion) with pam in full control of every scene she's in. robert de niro, bridget fonda, samuel l. jackson and robert forster create classic performances with one liners and quotes that will go down in history.

(the best opening credits in a film)


(this scene will go down in history)

btw, the american cinematheque is conveniently located directly behind antebellum gallery! yes we are neighbors, and what a great neighbor to have.. another reason why, "i love hollywood."

ALL TIED UP AT ARTSTRING


my doll of a neighbor- EMILIE ODEILE, has opened a new shop dedicated to all things knitted, tied and darned.
yes, there is a knit fetish and emilie is the queen!

(EMILIE ODEILE- KNIT QUEEN)

emilie will change the way people dress with innovative designs & styles in knitwear. no longer for winter only, the selection @ artstring works well in spring, summer & fall, day-wear & evening attire. emilie even has a knitted gown!

(EMILIE & ANNE- fellow knitter)














(emilie gets the keys to her shop)




(photos courtesy- Nic Trikonis and Jason Aaron Goldberg)



ARTSTRING
1644 N. Cherokee Ave, (one block east of antebellum gallery)
Hollywood, CA 90028
Open noon-6, Tuesday through Saturday
emilie@artstringboutique.com
213.840.5624
www.artstringboutique.com

also inquire about ROPE YOGA.