Fredrick Prescott...Kinetic Steel Sculptures delight patrons in park!

Probably a handful of the most delightful works of art I've recently encountered were on display in the recent exhibit - "Affaire in the Gardens" - crafted by talented sculptor Fredrick Prescott.

In fact, the kinetic steel sculptures of wild animals - Moose, Giraffes, and Elephants - were a big crowd-pleaser when they were unveiled in the lush gardens in Beverly Hills.

When a passer-by happens across the bold, colorful, cartoon cut-outs - they not only strike a chord, but hit the funny bone a bit - and by virtue of their pure whimsy - resonate deep within the artistic sensibilities.

According to the congenial Prescott, "everything inspires him".

For instance, the vibrant colors that find their way into his sculptures are drawn from what he categorizes as - "the distinctively electric palette of the contemporary world around him".

And, he goes on to wax poetic, that the pieces reflect experiences which he has transformed into - "half-real, half-fantastic images" - that are a tangible example of the joy and humor he finds in everything that he observes.

Whether depicting frenetic street scenes, or the world of animals and nature, all the artworks reflect his joyful perspective on a world that is humorous and colorful, according to the outgoing artist.

In particular, I marveled at the novelty of the kinetic aspect of his animal sculptures. The metal "sheets" (which comprise the bold buoyant forms) are balanced in such a way - that depending on the specific design of each - a head bobs up-and-down or side-to-side, powered by the natural prevailing wind.

In the mind's eye of a few, the amusing sculptures amount to innovative weather vanes!

Since 1974, Prescott has exhibited his work all over the world and created special pieces on commission for both private and corporate collectors; including Walt Disney Co., Porsche, and the Chicago Bulls, among others.

Also, Prescott’s larger-than-life sculptures have frequently been installed in public parks and venues where people of all ages and backgrounds can view them.

On the day I was joyfully savoring the artworks up-close, a resident of Beverly Hills was arranging for Mr. Prescott to drop by so the family could order up a special garden sculpture for the kids and neighbors to enjoy.

As Henry Ward Beecher once said,

Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures.

http://www.prescottstudio.com

Affaire in the Gardens...Beverly Hills. Artists ply wares & patrons get tipsy in the trendy Wine garden!

If you're in the mood to take a stroll through a rose garden, or simply reflect on the creations of a handful of artists exhibiting their work in a park-like setting, then take in - "Affaire in the Garden" - in the city of Beverly Hills this sun-splashed weekend. (May 17th - May 18th)

This morning, I strode along the well-worn path along the "flats" to the spritely-decorated exhibit area - amid a gaggle of pristine-white canvas tents - fascinated by the myriad of artistic expressions on display.

While a large percentage of the offerings fell under the category of "Craft" - as opposed to the lofty designation of "Fine Art" - there were a number of original paintings and sculptures that caught my discerning eye, none-the-less.

Just maybe, it's wholly possible to snatch up an obscure piece before the "Gods" smile on an artist - and thereafter - catapult 'em into the nether-regions of the high-brow art collector!
If you're in to chatzkas, though, this is definitely the place for you.
The "affaire" in the "park" is rife with elegant blown glass, bold colorful ceramics, one-of-a-kind delightful ornaments, two-dimensional wall-reliefs rendered with artistic flair - you name it.


Also, there is a kids' alley where the young ones in tow can paint up a storm!

When it's time to relax, hop over to the wine garden where art connoisseurs mix and mingle, and wax poetic on the state of - well - many things!

info: www.beverlyhills.org


Cindy Craig artwork...a distinct naive quality!

Affaire in the Gardens...Beverly Hills. Artists ply wares & patrons get tipsy in the wine garden!

If you're in the mood to take a stroll through a rose garden, or simply reflect on the creations of a handful of artists exhibiting their work in a park-like setting, then take in - "Affaire in the Garden" - in the city of Beverly Hills this sun-splashed weekend. (May 17th - May 18th)

This morning, I strode along the well-worn path along the "flats" to the spritely-decorated exhibit area - amid a gaggle of pristine-white canvas tents - fascinated by the myriad of artistic expressions on display.

While a large percentage of the offerings fell under the category of "Craft" - as opposed to the lofty designation of "Fine Art" - there were a number of original paintings and sculptures that caught my discerning eye, none-the-less.

Just maybe, it's wholly possible to snatch up an obscure piece before the "Gods" smile on an artist - and thereafter - catapult 'em into the nether-regions of the high-brow art collector!
If you're in to chatzkas, though, this is definitely the place for you.
The "affaire" in the "park" is rife with elegant blown glass, bold colorful ceramics, one-of-a-kind delightful ornaments, two-dimensional wall-reliefs rendered with artistic flair - you name it.


Also, there is a kids' alley where the young ones in tow can paint up a storm!

When it's time to relax, hop over to the wine garden where art connoisseurs mix and mingle, and wax poetic on the state of - well - many things!

info: www.beverlyhills.org


Cindy Craig artwork...a distinct naive quality!

Occasionally I stroll through the Farmer's Market in Beverly Hills to snap up a handful of vegetables and fresh fruit.



Oftentimes, the bluesy strains of a live ensemble charm, as they echo throughout the festive pedestrian-filled street.



Recently, I spied a tasty-looking doughnut in a display case from one of the neighborhood bakeries, and was inclined to stride up and ask the clerk to slip one into a bag for me.



When he told me the price, my jaw dropped!



"$3.00, please."



The folks in Beverly Hills must be out-of-touch with reality. A hop-and-a-skip away in West Hollywood or West Los Angeles the same little sugar-packed treat costs a paltry 75 cents.



I passed on the purchase - probably would have given me indigestion anyway - but the incident triggered a memory of an old song we used to sing as kids.

It goes somethin' like this:



Oh, I went to Toledo

And I went around the block

And I stepped right into a bakery shop

And I gave the lady a five-cent piece

And she took two doughnuts out of the grease

She looked at the money

And she looked at me

She said, "This money is no good to me"

"There's a hole in the center, I can see right through"

Said I, "There's a hole in the doughnut, too!"

Don Johnson...dines alfresco, a little worse for wear.

I know I shouldn't have - the old waistline will be feelin' it tomorrow - but I took a break from a bit of editing and headed over to Rite-Aid for a regular single scoop of Cookies 'n Cream.

Ah, delicious.

On the way back home, instead of turning off on a side street to avoid the madding crowd, I strolled straight up Canon Drive amid the lunch-hour throngs.

Well now, who did I spy dining alfresco at the corner at one of the trendiest in-spots to be gandered at?

Don Johnson.

Gosh, anyone could have just bent over and given him a peck on the cheek!

But, I have to admit, the TIN CUP star was a little worse for wear; tired, and haggard-looking.

Didn't catch a soul scrambling for his John Henry.

Frankly, if I were so out-of-shape - physically down-in-the-dumps - I'd at least don a pair of sunglasses to hide a little of the baggage under those precious peepers.

No pun intended.

Or, is he casting about for a character role?

The image is a far cry from the glitz and glamour of Miami Vice days.

Poor slip-sliding shooting star.

Guess the one-time heart throb was inclined to bask in the glow of a bit of the fleeting fame he has left. But, few appeared impressed by the sight of his cute chops at the popular upscale eatery.

In contrast, I got a ton of attention. Why?

By sheer accident, I ended up straggling down the street a hair's breath behind a young beauty with kno**ers out to there!

So, natch, all the wolves on the prowl - sittin' pretty all in a row 'round their elegant tables dressed to the nines in their pricey Ermenegildo Zegna designer suits - were inclined to stare "our" way.

Funny, that.

It wasn't until I brought it to the young gal's attention (she was on the way to the dentist) that she was aware of the stir she was causing.

Yup, that's the secret.

Don't possess a care in the world, or scheme for a show of things, and all eyes will focus on 'ya.

Maybe it has somethin' to do with the energy one exudes when they're innocent and carefree and - without motive - of course!

Maybe, the "me" generation is fading fast into oblivion, do 'ya think?



In heady days, Don was known for his "Johnson"...

Sunglasses...cool, casual, colorful! Out of the shade, into spotlight!

Ah, the lazy days of summer are upon us!

When I zipped into my favorite Starbucks outlet in West Hollywood, I couldn't help but notice the festive eye-catching shades on the snoz of one of the kids who plies the eclectic cafe treats there.

The quirky fun specs were somewhat reminiscent of a pair of poindexters, but the rims screamed out in a pop-inspired fire-engine red!

Very cool!

You know, since I became a transplant to sunny California, it has always surprised me how many people in the BIG ORANGE trounce around town - wearing sandals in open jeeps with T's off or with their top-of-the-line Benz convertible rag-tops down - without donning a pair of sunglasses for protection under the sizzlin' mid-day solar rays.

Vanity be thy name?

Yes, I expect a handful of Hollywood hopefuls are anxious to show off their pretty mugs in tantalizing Tinsel town where an all-elusive break into the biz is just a glance away.

But, for longevity's sake (unless you want to play character actors for the rest of your life) it's always wise to cover up when splashing into the zesty beach days of summer each year.

After all, treks in the scorching sun without shades get 'ya squinting - and over time - etch out some nasty crow's feet up-close and personal to your luminous baby blues.

Notwithstanding, scrutinizing objects in the bright sun without protection may eventually cause irreversible damage to the retina of the eye.

So, it's important to not only sport shades, but ensure the pair you snap up have maximum Ultra Violet (UV) protection!

But, forget rims in "granny styles". After all, wrap-a-round coverage is best.

Of course, there are many brands to choose from!

Ray-Bans, as always, are Top Gun!

And, in 90210 (Beverly Hills, dahlink!) designer shades with ubiquitous logos upfront and screeching "money" are always in vogue.

But, if you're on a budget or continually misplacing your fave pair (like moi!), occasionally - and for a song with a stroke of luck - you'll be able to snatch up a real snazzy pair at the 99 cent store.

But, scan for the UV protection sticker, please!

Another benefit of protection?

In a matter of weeks you'll also notice the texture and tone of the skin around the eyes noticeably improved.

It saves face! Just ask my pals, below.

Playboy Mansion...Hefner gives nod to playful pajama party! May 10th, 2008.

Exotic cocktails to quench thirst...



To the Manor born...



Hugh Hefner is the male animal's ultimate image of the true bachelor.

Carefree, surrounded by a bevy of bodacious babes, rich enough to enjoy a luxurious slice of life...he's a - well - man's man in a smoking jacket!

Consequently, The Playboy Mansion has captured the imagination of countless wolves in the decadent years who have aspired to the Playboy lifestyle.

Now you have the chance to experience first hand the mysterious allure that beckons far beyond the presence of captivating, exotic women.

On May 10th, 2008, Bluefish is hosting a pajama party on the lush grounds of the tony estate in Beverly Hills. And you're invited - if you can afford the hefty entrance fee - that is!

The infamous grotto will be transformed into a unique fantasy retreat...offering rest, rejuvenation, fun and lusty entertainment...in what the organizers refer to as - "a vibrantly pleasure-driven environment".

Sign me up, Hef. I need a little - um - R & R!

For those interested in strutting about in the Playboy King's shoes, while savoring each delicious morsel the spoils the Playboy Empire has to offer up, this is the ticket.

Crowning the event a "sleepover-themed paradise", the A-list party-planners have rustled up a scintillating environment replete with - white cozy cabanas, body-painted girls, go-go dancers, and a lit dance floor - all spun into a fantasy dream sequence further enhanced by 3,000 yards of draped fabric and lounging pillows to envelop the sensual romantic-at-heart.

Celebrity DJ Vice will do the honors in the music booth as 1,000 guests – all dressed in their favorite sleepwear - dance into the wee hours of dawn.

Those who prefer to soak in soothing waters will - no doubt - choose to splash about with a pack of seductive revelers in the infamous Grotto for some wet-and-wild flesh-filled fun.

A general admission ticket - which includes transportation to and from the Playboy Mansion - gourmet dinner, open bar, tour of the grounds, and pool & grotto access will run 'yak a whopping $1500.00 a pop. As the demand rises, they may even saunter up to a staggering two thousand bucks a pretty bodacious head.

The big party whales will be springing for the VIP Cabana, no doubt.

After all, the package is such a deal!

VIPS guests trip-the-night fantastic with their own Playmate hostess, free flowing bottles of vodka, open cocktail bar, security guard, seating for a party of ten, and - natch - drive-on access to and from the Playboy Manse.

In addition to the General Admission ticket price of fifteen hundred greenbacks (well, some are of multi-colored hues, these days) the VIP status and cabana will rev up the bill to a princely sum of $7500.

Bluefish notes that if you're inclined to tally the costs, you're not in your league.

In fact, in their recent press release they were quite circumspect about that,

"Bluefish is not a gofer service, an old boy's network or a snobby bunch of party crashing showoffs. Please don't call us to pick up your dry cleaning; that is simply not what we do. Instead, we offer the highest level of personalized travel, transportation and entertainment-related services to corporate executives, celebrities, professional athletes and other discerning individuals interested in living life to its fullest."

In sum, Bluefish imagines themselves the ultimate little black book; a genie in a bottle, where the wishes are not only endless, but come true.

For instance, they'll work on your behalf to secure tough access to A-list events, organize an outlandish once-in-a-lifetime whacky adventure, or line up a private charter flight with luxury accommodations, to boot.

"We have sent clients in a submarine to see the remains of the Titanic, provided exclusive access to the greatest award shows, fashion events, and arranged fighter jet flights over Moscow! It is our uncommon ability to truly make the world accessible to our clients that absolutely sets us apart from the rest."

Now, I just have to win the lotto to indulge!


Hef on the prowl in younger days...

info: www.thebluefish.com

D.B. Sweeney, "Two Tickets to Paradise" a hilarious buddy film. "Great Gretzky" corals talent!

I slipped into a theatre to catch the comedy - "Two Tickets to Paradise" - not expecting much.

But, when the openings scenes flashed up on the screen, I sat up and took notice.

To paraphrase actor Pacino's emotionally-charged character in one of the Godfather sagas:

"They dragged me in"

I suppose it was because of the snappy bang on dialogue between the three main characters in this hilarious independent film by D.B. Sweeney.

And, because the off-the-wall buddy road pic resonated with an undeniable intelligence, wit, and charm.

Bottom line, though, it was probably because of the high standard Sweeney imposed on himself, that resulted in the success of this little charmer.

"Two Tickets" was originally released a year ago under the oddball title of - "Dirt Nap".

And, in spite of the fact the earthy comedy was received well at a handful of reputable Film Festivals, Sweeney was inclined to reel it back in and tool with the independent project a bit.

Actually, at the suggestion of filmgoers at a sneak preview, Mr. Sweeney shot a couple of extra scenes to add some punch.

For example, the doey-eyed actor responded to their call for a lusty gal or two to grace the screen; after all, it was a "guy" picture.

"Where were the dames?" they quizzed.

In a Q & A afterwards, Sweeney - who wore several hats in the production - delighted the audience with background fodder on how a Hooter's scene came about.

"SAG actresses were too costly, so we hired a couple of strippers."

The audience roared!

In addition, he revealed that the ending was changed so that it was more upbeat, in keeping with a plea from the audience at a marketing session, to pair two unlikely characters at the end of the earthy offering.

Sweeney also drew on the assistance of best buds, like hockey great, Wayne Gretzky.

In fact, Gretzky participated hands-on.

Sweeney laughingly recalled that Gretzky actually stood in a parking lot at a stadium, and personally guaranteed t-shirts and sodas to passers-by, who agreed to play extras in the crowd scenes at a Super Bowl event stage for "Tickets".

After stepping up - and signing on - volunteers glanced askance at the hockey star and wondered aloud:

"Heh, you're Wayne Gretzky, aren't you?"

Gretzky's wife, Janet Jones, was cast as one of the wives - and his real-life son - as her young boy.
Before marrying Wayne, Ms. Jones savored a promising career as an actress, if you recall.

The attractive blond appeared in a handful of quality films such as - Annie, Beastmaster, A Chorus Line, and A League of Their Own.

But, her break-out role was in "Flamingo Kid", opposite Matt Dillon.

For some pick-up footage, Sweeney also called on another long-time pal to rustle up a fake street permit, so he could shoot a bit of celluloid during the Super bowl.

All was well until a couple of cops happened along.

When the director calmly noted he had a permit, the cops turned to each other and chuckled.

"Oh yeah? Let's take a gander at that."

Sweeney confidently displayed the well-crafted phony; sure the men in blue would be fooled. But, the two cops laughed at it under close scrutiny.

"Pretty good."

There was one glaring problem, though.

The city banned all permits that week - unbeknownst to Sweeney - so the two coppers knew it had to be a fake.

At this juncture, one of the officers piped up.

"Weren't you the guy in that film "Fire in the Sky"?

Sweeney was flabbergasted.

They recognized him.

Then, they noted in an off-handed way, they had a couple of rounds to do.

"You'll be gone when we get back, right?"

Wow, a nod of approval, sort of.

Alright!

Sweeney was also fortunate to land a "thumbs up" in respect to a couple of chart-busting hits he chose to incorporate into the soundtrack.

Yup.

Bob Dylan, Dire Straits, and Bruce Springsteen - to name a few - signed releases on the dotted line, which gave a big musical boost to the project.

Unfortunately, the film got "kicked out" of the Toronto Film Festival shortly after it was accepted for screening.

Why?

Turns out, it wasn't a "Virgin" release.

When officials found out "Two Tickets" screened previously at another festival - and failed to meet Festival Rule Requirements - Sweeney was given the jolly heave ho.

Ah, who needs 'em!

Unfortunately, Sweeney later opted to forgo on the costly expense of securing distribution rights.

So, "Two Tickets" won't be screening in your local movie house.

Since the comedy screened, I understand that it may be on DVD release, though.

Try to catch the hilarious "dude" comedy, if you can!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Yayoi Kusama...whimsical sculpture delights joggers! Beverly Hills!

Indoor Art installation with signature polka-dots

A whimsical piece of sculpture by artist - Yayoi Kusama - is taking joggers and strollers alike by surprise on the park trail just beyond the flats in Beverly Hills.

Entitled - "Hymn of Life, Tulips" - the bold sprightly-colored three-dimensional work in-the-round instantaneously delights when it reaches out from the distance as you happen upon it.

The eye-catching "Hymn" is crafted in fiberglass, ceramic tile, and steel.

In my mind's eye, Kusama's work is much more appealing that the "Man without a head" down a-ways at another intersection street.

And, is much more aesthetically-pleasing than the dismal "Drummer", by sculptor Barry Flannigan (Beverly Drive & Santa Monica Boulevards).

At last, someone with taste has taken charge of acquisitions in the tony enclave - the end result being - that a significant contribution to the cultural experience in the park for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

"Hymn" is the first public outdoor sculpture in the United States by the renowned Japanese artist.

Although polka-dots have become her trademark, the artist often experiments with other mediums as well.

Her collages and soft sculptures are stand-outs, in particular!

A recipient of the "Order of the Rising Sun", Yayoi labels herself an "obsessive" artist.

Fortunately; otherwise, "Tulips" may not have seen the light of day in the well-manicured gardens of Beverly Hills.

Moment of Regeneration

Hymn of Life, Tulips

Pedestrian blues...and a little RR.

I was sprinting across the crosswalk at Canon Drive in Beverly Hills today, when I nearly got struck down by a stately Rolls Royce cruising along at a fast clip.

What did I mutter under my breath?

"Hit me! I need the money."

Jennifer Tilly..."The Caretaker", free screening for Industry Professionals; Fine Arts Theatre! March 8th...

On International Woman's Day - March 8th, 2008 - the Fine Arts Theatre (Beverly Hills) will be presenting a free screening of the feature - "The Caretaker" - starring two popular stars - Jennifer Tilly and Judd Nelson...

Industry Professionals - both in front-of and behind-the-camera - are invited to attend by reserving now at the Screening Series Website,

www.screenitfirst.com/ssg/events/list

A plot summary...

"A group of teenage boys out to give their girlfriends a good scare on Homecoming night, which also happens to be Halloween, head to an abandoned house in an out-of-the-way grapefruit orchard where they uncover the story of a real life urban legend, well-known as "The Caretaker"."

The Fine Arts Theatre is run and operated by Michael S. Hall, and is an elegant state-of-the-art screening facility, which was completely refurbished in recent years to its former glory from the heydays of Hollywood.

In fact, when I attended a preview of "Moscow Chill" the other evening, series Producer - Bob Nuchow - pointed out that this was the infamous theatre where the great Elvis Presley used to screen films for his closest buddies in the close-knit Memphis Mafia!

Imagine that, you might actually settle back into a plush velvet seat the King once relaxed in!

In recent years, many events have been hosted at the Fine Arts Theatre by the Screen Actors Guild, AFTRA, and a continuing sponsor - BackStage West.

For those who prefer afternoon entertainment, there will also be a screening of April Moon at 2:30 p.m. earlier in the day.

The feature stars: William McNamara (Copycat, Chasers), Ryan Michelle Bathe (Good Fences, Brother to Brother), Kevin Dobson (1408) & Stephanie Reibel as April.

See 'ya there!