Bourgeois Pig

NachtJazzExpress, Sa, 18.02.12, 22 Uhr, Prinz Friedrich

2012-02-13T10:25:00.000+01:00

Dieser NachtJazzExpress findet zu Ehren zweier großartiger Menschen statt, die Heidelberg demnächst leider verlassen werden: Caro und Eric

Also zieht Eure Tanzschuhe an, um noch einmal die Seele des Jazz mit ihnen zu teilen.

Swing, Jump Blues, Funk, Soul, Rhythm 'n' Blues, Psychedelic, Nu Orleans Jazz, Hip Hop, Reggae & Afrobeat vom Feinsten

Wir freuen uns auf Euch

Euer NJE-Team

Sa, 18.02.12, 22 Uhr
Prinz Friedrich
Kettengasse 9
HD-Altstadt

PS: Diese Veranstaltung unterstützt die Initiative 1 Euro for the Philippines

1 Concert for the Philippines, Fr, 17.02.12, 20 Uhr, Romanischer Keller

2012-02-13T10:13:00.000+01:00

1 CONCERT FOR THE PHILIPPINES

        mit

        Jack Corrigall

            und

        Triskilian

Freitag, 17. Februar 2012
Beginn: 20 Uhr
Einlass: 19 Uhr
Romanischer Keller
Seminarstr. 3, Heidelberg

In der Nacht zum 16. Dezember 2011 wurde Cagayan de Oro, eine Stadt im Norden der Mindanao Insel, Philippinen, von dem tropischen Sturm Sendong heimgesucht. Etwa 1500 Menschen, die meisten unter ihnen Kinder, konnten der Welle der Zerstörung nicht entkommen.
Wir brauchen Ihre Hilfe, denn es gibt noch eine Menge zu tun!

Weitere Informationen zu den Hilfsprojekten finden Sie hier:

1 Euro for the Philippines
http://www.facebook.com/pages/1-Euro-for-the-Philippines/162514167190384

Lonnie Liston Smith & The Cosmic Echoes - Cosmic Funk

2012-01-25T17:49:00.000+01:00

I found this record today in Musikzimmer, Heidelberg. The first second I listened to it I was completely enchanted. It's a wonderful mixture of psychedelic funk and spiritual jazz. It feels as if Alice Coltrane, Lloyd Miller, Herbie Hancock and Karl Hector & The Malcouns were in the same room.

Label: Flying Dutchman Productions Ltd.
Release Date: 1974

Soul Castling, Mi, 25.01.2012, 20 Uhr, drugstore

2012-01-24T10:26:00.001+01:00

Freunde der gediegenen Musik,

Soul Castling ist eine musikalische Rochade durch die Tiefen des Jazz & Soul. Ich freue mich, euch mit seltenen Kostbarkeiten zu verwöhnen.

Euer Bolte

PS: Gerne weitersagen!
PPS: Weitere Informationen findet ihr unter Gesichtsbuch/Events oder unter Gesichtsbuch/NachtJazzExpress

NachtJazzExpress, Sa, 21.01.2012, 22 Uhr, Prinz Friedrich

2012-01-13T17:40:00.000+01:00

NachtJazzExpress

featuring

Swing Arthur, Sir Dancealot
& their funky Court Jester

MORE GAIN

The finest of Swing, Jump Blues, Funk, Soul, Rhythm 'n' Blues, Psychedelic, Nu Orleans Jazz, Hip Hop, Reggae & Afrobeat

Sa, 21.01.2012, 22 Uhr
Prinz Friedrich
Kettengasse 9
HD-Altstadt

Weitere Informationen findet ihr bei Gesichtsbuch/NachtJazzExpress

Wir freuen uns auf euch!

PS: Gerne weitersagen!!!

Danke! Thanks! Grazie! Merci! ¡Gracias! Obrigado! Mulțumesc! Cпасибо!

2011-12-31T14:38:00.000+01:00

Die NachtJazzExpress Crew bedankt sich bei allen Unterstützern und Liebhabern der "Hüften schüttelnden" Musik und wünscht euch einen guten Rutsch ins neue Jahr!
Am Samstag, den 21.01.2012 rollen wir dann wieder mit voller Kraft voraus durchs Prinz Friedrich.

The NachtJazzExpress crew gives thanks to all supporters and enthusiasts of "hipshaking" music and wishes everyone a Happy New Year!
Saturday, January 21, 2012 we'll roll once more through Prinz Friedrich at full tilt.

Swing Arthur, Sir Dancealot & their funky Court Jester

NachtJazzExpress, Sa, 17.12.2011, 22 Uhr, Prinz Friedrich

2011-12-09T18:05:00.000+01:00

Swing Arthur, Sir Dancealot & their funky Court Jester
celebrating Winter Soulstice

The Finest of Swing, Jump Blues, Funk, Soul, Rhythm 'n' Blues, Psychedelic, Nu Orleans Jazz, Hip Hop & Afrobeat

We are looking forward to seeing you there!!!

NachtJazzExpress, Sa, 19.11.2011, 22 Uhr, Prinz-Friedrich, HD-Altstadt

2011-11-18T15:08:00.001+01:00

Freunde des NachtJazzExpress,

am Sa, 19.11.2011, 22 Uhr ist es wieder soweit. Swing Arthur & Sir Dancealot mit special guest "The funky Court Jester" auf der Suche nach dem heiligen Soul.

Wir freuen uns auf euch!!!

PS: Für weitere Informationen geht auf http://www.facebook.com/pages/NachtJazzExpress/147251172013882?sk=wall und klickt den "Gefällt mir/Like"-Button

SOUL CASTLING, Mi, 26.10.11, 20 Uhr, Drugstore

2011-10-22T14:14:00.000+02:00

Freunde der gediegenen Musik,

Soul Castling ist eine musikalische Rochade durch die Tiefen der Soul-Musik. In gemütlichem Ambiente werden euch an diesem Abend die Perlen dieser Stilrichtung vorgestellt.

Ich freue mich auf euch.

bolte

PS: Gerne weiterleiten!

NachtJazzExpress - Sa, 15.10.11, 22 Uhr

2011-10-08T10:48:00.001+02:00

Es ist wieder soweit: NachtJazzExpress featuring Swing Arthur & Sir Dancealot - The Knights of the Turntable

Packt Eure Tanzsocken aus und los geht's!!!

Sa, 15.10.11, 22 Uhr
Prinz Friedrich
Kettengasse 9
HD-Altstadt

Weitere Informationen unter: http://www.facebook.com/pages/NachtJazzExpress/147251172013882?sk=wall

NachtJazzExpress presents HÖRFUNK

2011-09-09T18:41:00.001+02:00

Freunde des schüttelnden Tanzbeins. Am Freitag, 16.09.11, 22 Uhr ist es wieder soweit. NJE presents HÖRFUNK! Kommt vorbei und überzeugt Euch selbst.

Prinz Friedrich
Kettengasse 9
Heidelberg-Altstadt

PS: Für weitere Informationen auf http://www.facebook.com/pages/NachtJazzExpress/147251172013882?sk=wall gehen und den "Gefällt mir/Like"-Knopf drücken.

NachtJazzExpress, 20.08.11, 22 Uhr, Prinz Friedrich

2011-08-18T18:24:00.002+02:00

Freunde der fabulösen Musik,

/sailəntsfiəʳ/(audiophilets) und Witwe Bolte auf der musikalischen Reise ins Paradies freuen sich erneut auf Euch!!!
Der NachtJazzExpress findet dieses Mal in Kooperation mit Bio de Janeiro (Another Lostpark Bashment) statt. Mit an den Plattentellern: MC Comme Ca und Mr.Kanister.

Prinz Friedrich
Kettengasse 9
Heidelberg-Altstadt

PS: Für weitere Informationen auf http://www.facebook.com/pages/NachtJazzExpress/147251172013882?sk=wall gehen und den "Gefällt mir/Like"-Knopf drücken.

NachtJazzExpress, 16.07.11, 22 Uhr, Prinz Friedrich

2011-07-05T18:45:00.002+02:00

Freunde der Nacht, Liebhaber des swingenden Tanzbeins!!!

Am Samstag, den 16.07.11, ab 22 Uhr rollt der nächste NachtJazzExpress durchs Prinz Friedrich in der Heidelberger Altstadt. Monsieur /sailəntsfiəʳ/ war beim letzten Mal leider verhindert, legt aber dieses Mal ganz bestimmt mit auf.

Wir freuen uns auf Euch!

Eure Plattendreher /sailəntsfiəʳ/(audiophilets) und Witwe Bolte

PS: Wer über weitere Veranstaltungen informiert werden möchte, kann auf der NachtJazzExpress-Seite einfach auf den "Gefällt mir"-Knopf drücken. :)
PPS: Gerne weitersagen!!!

NachtJazzExpress, 18.06.11, 22 Uhr, Prinz Friedrich

2011-06-02T09:45:00.002+02:00

Freunde der schillernden und wendigen Musik!!!

Am Samstag, den 18.06.11, ab 22 Uhr, rattert der nächste NachtJazzExpress wieder durch die Heidelberger Altstadt, genauer gesagt durchs Prinz Friedrich. Hinterm Mischpult erwarten Euch:

/sailəntsfiəʳ/(audiophilets) und Witwe Bolte

Wir freuen uns auf Euch!!!

Songwriter's Eve, 28.05., 21 Uhr, Prinz Friedrich

2011-05-25T19:00:00.000+02:00

Freunde der geschmeidigen Musik,

am Samstag, den 28.05.2011, findet ab 21 Uhr der Songwriter's Eve mit Marius & Hannes, Ben J. Marx und Le Mathieu im Prinz Friedrich in der Kettengasse 9 statt. Im Anschluss daran (so gegen 23.30 Uhr) wird mein Alter Ego Witwe Bolte noch bis in die späte Nacht auflegen.

Über Euer Kommen würden wir uns sehr freuen!!!

Die Kinder mit den Tauben - Freitag, 29.04.2011, 20.30 Uhr - TiKK

2011-04-27T18:37:00.001+02:00

Freunde der gepflegten Musik!

Am Freitag, den 29.04.2011, um 20.30 Uhr geben die Kinder mit den Tauben im Tikk-Theater Karlstorbahnhof das Abschlusskonzert ihrer diesjährigen Frühlings-Tournee, natürlich auch mit ihrer neuen CD Tontaubenträger im Gepäck.
Für alle, die danach noch ein wenig weiterfeiern wollen, legt meine Wenigkeit aka Witwe Bolte noch ein paar Schmankerln auf.

Wir freuen uns auf Euer Kommen!!!

NachtJazzExpress light - 22.04.2011

2011-04-17T21:32:00.002+02:00

Freunde der Nacht und Liebhaber des schwingenden Tanzbeins: Es ist mal wieder soweit! Vorerst abgespeckt und an einem anderen Ort beginnt die Neuauflage des legendären NachtJazzExpress' im Prinz Friedrich in der Heidelberger Altstadt. Kommt und genießt die unverwechselbare Atmosphäre dieses Ereignisses!!!

Wir freuen uns auf Euer Kommen.

P.S.: Nach dem Auftakt sind Veranstaltungen einmal pro Monat geplant.

B-Seite 2011 - Festival für visuelle Kunst und Jetztkultur

2011-04-02T20:04:00.003+02:00

Wieder einmal beeindruckten die Künstler des B-Seite-Festivals mit ihren Installationen.

Besonders faszinierend war die Installation 1000 paper cranes des japanischen Künstlers Takuma Nakata, der einen riesigen Papierkranich aus 1000 kleinen selbstgefalteten bastelte.

Hier noch weitere Exemplare, die zeigen, was mit Licht im Raum alles bewerkstelligt werden kann.

Ein leuchtendes Beispiel für Kreativität. Den Machern des B-Seite-Festivals ein ganz großes Kompliment.

Bolte's weekly music recommendation

2011-01-13T12:03:00.004+01:00

CD cover

This time it's CocoRosie again with their latest album Grey Oceans.

LP cover

Label: Sub Pop
Release Date: May, 11th, 2010

If you want to listen to it, here are two videos:

Enjoy!

Heidelberger Winter

2010-12-22T10:38:00.001+01:00

Click here to watch the slide show!

Bolte's weekly music recommendation

2010-12-19T13:32:00.003+01:00

This time I'd like to present Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra and their album Security (although their music is great across-the-board).

Label: Anti Rec.
Year: 2007

If you want to listen to it click here

Mulatu Astatke @ Karlstorbahnhof, Heidelberg

2010-12-11T13:35:00.007+01:00

I had the honour to see Mulatu Astatke live at Karlstorbahnhof in Heidelberg. It was a fantastic concert. Every musician was higly skilled and amazing. I enjoyed every second!!!

To watch the slide show click here.

To listen to his music click here.

Twistable Turnable Man

2010-11-28T13:27:00.002+01:00

He's the Twistable Turnable Squeezable Pullable
Stretchable Foldable Man.
He can crawl in your pocket or fit your locket
Or screw himself into a twenty-volt socket,
Or stretch himself up to the steeple or taller,
Or squeeze himself into a thimble or smaller,
Yes he can, course he can,
He's the Twistable Turnable Squeezable Pullable
Stretchable Shrinkable Man.
And he lives a passable life
With his Squeezable Lovable Kissable Hugable
Pullable Tugable Wife.
And they have two twistable kids
Who bend up the way that they did.
And they turn and they stretch
Just as much as they can
For this Bendable Foldable
Do-what-you're-toldable
Easily moldable
Buy-what you're-soldable
Washable Mendable
Highly Dependable
Buyable Saleable
Always available
Bounceable Shakeable
Almost unbreakable
Twistable Turnable Man.

-Lyrics by Sheldon Allan Silverstein-

Bolte's weekly music recommendation

2010-11-23T20:29:00.001+01:00

This time -after more than 10 months- I'd like to present the album Earthology by The Whitefield Brothers.

Released: Feb. 9, 2010
Label: Now Again Records

Kona Coffee - yummy!

2010-11-23T19:53:00.000+01:00

Kassie & Andy brought me that great and tasteful coffee from Hawaii two weeks ago. Yesterday (after I had used up my "common Arabica") I grabbed my whirlybird, ground these delicious Kona beans and brew it in my caffettiera. The result was nothing else but yum-my!

Thanks again Kassie & Andy for this awesome gift!!!

Heidelberger Herbst - Indian Summer in Heidelberg

2010-11-02T21:30:00.003+01:00

click here to watch the slide show

Am 1. November spazierte ich mit Zouma durch den Heidelberger Schlosspark und hatte die Gelegenheit, einige Photos zu schießen.

Viel Spaß & Enjoy!!!

NACHTJAZZEXPRESS - 16.10.10 - 22 UHR

2010-10-15T19:38:00.002+02:00

Lang ist's her, doch immer wieder gut, wenn's soweit ist! Kommt und genießt die einmalige Atmosphäre des NachtJazzExpress. Natürlich in der Villa Nachttanz.

Wir freuen uns auf Euch.

Keeping Up With The Jones'

2010-07-17T23:33:00.000+02:00

Disco Dionysos - Frau Kraushaar live

2010-06-17T22:16:00.001+02:00

Frau Kraushaar

Am Freitag, 18.06.2010, also morgen, tritt Frau Kraushaar in der Villa Nachttanz auf.

Eine Nervensäge macht Musik: Frau Kraushaar haut uns mit ihrem Debütalbum “Le Salon Is Very Morbidä” hintergründigen Dadaismus um die Ohren

Frau Kraushaar – Oh Gaga Oh Jeh

Von dem Album: Le Salon Is Very Morbidä Labelship/Cargo (2009)

Nerv-Musik tut sich meistens schwer. Das mag daran liegen, dass sie nervt. Deshalb kann sie auch nicht in Cafés gespielt werden. Sie bietet dem Hörer keine Ablenkung, sondern wirft ihn auf sich selbst zurück, setzt ihn dem grausamen Alltag aus. Und nervt weiter.

“Lalalalala, ich war schon als Kind eine Nervensäge!” singt Frau Kraushaar im elften Stück ihres Debütalbums Le Salon Is Very Morbidä. Da hat man es schon längst begriffen. Der Bemusterungskopie liegt ein Stapel beschriebener Zettel bei. Ein Dossier. Es geht um Kunst. Und Kunst erklärt sich gern.

Lassen wir es beiseite und lauschen der Musik. Doch wie erklärt man die? Es ist diese durch Stahlbeton bohrende Stimme, der Zeigefinger ins Nichts, es sind die leiernden Melodien, die eckigen Rhythmen – alle Elemente dieses Albums insistieren auf ihr Recht auf Unstimmigkeit. Der morbidä kraushaarsche Salon ist nämlich vollgestellt, jede Zeit, jeder Stil hat hier Platz – die Besucher müssen eng zusammenrücken, wenn eine neue Stehlampe hineingeworfen wird.

Psychotische Kinderlieder erklingen, wie Kannst Du Mir Verraten, dem Techno entrissene Computerspielmusik wie Logan’s Run, die billigen Orgeleskapaden von Cats On Crack – ein Lied, das selbst auf noch härterer Droge schwer zu ertragen wäre. O Gaga Oh Jeh. Und Politiki Dummes Ficki – eine Tirade von Schimpfwörtern, wehmütig im Stile eines Poetry-Slams vorgetragen.

Immer weiter werden die Synapsen des Hörers strapaziert, und Silvia Berger, so heisst Frau Kraushaar bürgerlich, legt nach. Die schrullige Deutschtunesierin spricht bayerisch und singt in englisch, italienisch, finnisch, deutsch und in einer Fantasiesprache, nennen wir sie teutschdunesisch. Oder Spinnisch. Ihr Babelfisch ist wohl defekt.

Natürlich ist das alles nur scheinbar naiv, diese Musik ist hintergründiger Dadaismus! Genauer kann der Autor das nicht erklären, denn soeben ist sein Kopf geplatzt.

“Le Salon Is Very Morbidä” von Frau Kraushaar ist als CD, LP und Download bei Labelship/Cargo erschienen.

Quelle: Zeit-Online

Hausmeister Krause

Und ich leg' danach auch noch auf. Oje oje, kommt alle und werdet verrückt!

Tausend Grüße

Bolte

KIVA

2010-01-24T16:52:00.018+01:00

Helping others to help themselves!

That's the motto of KIVA, a non-profit organization based in the US. Instead of sending food, money or clothes to people in need - meanwhile never knowing if it reaches them - you can lend money to Low Income Entrepreneurs in the form of a micro credit (starting at $25) and - most likely - get it back within a year. The money that goes out to these recipients is interest free and in many cases provides individuals the opportunity to invest in their livelihood. It simply allows people who have found themselves in a bind to continue on. There is always somebody on site who makes sure that the loan requests are legitimate and you can choose from applicants all over the world. Even if you are going through hard times yourself, I recommend taking a look at this website to view some of the circumstances for which the applicants have requested their loans.

This is a great way to do a lot of good with a little amount of time and money. Check KIVA's website and get started!

New York Times Article - 'Winning Ways of Making a Better World'

Bolte's "weekly" music recommendation

2010-01-11T09:08:00.005+01:00

A long long time ago...

It's not the newest album but a brilliant one:
Iron & Wine - Our Endless Numbered Days
Released: March 23, 2004
Label: Sub Pop

If you want to listen to it, click here

Mimi Kirchner

2009-11-16T17:46:00.005+01:00

I've never thought of myself as a doll person, although I have been known to cuddle the occasional stuffed animal from time to time. As soon as I saw this new Red Haired Tattoo Lady from Mimi Kirchner I fell in love. Her work inspires me so much that I am planning on re-vamping my craft area to try out some new projects. Finding an artist that can redefine and revitalize an age old tradition is so exciting. Mimi also has an adorable blog that can be viewed here!

JAZZEXPRESS VS BAHNBETRIEBSWERK

2009-11-11T21:27:00.005+01:00

Samstag, 14. November 09

Straßengalerie "Erhebung"

ab 13.oo Uhr auf dem Platz vor dem psychologischen Institut
für das Bahnbetriebswerk & eine neue "Kunst-Kultur" in Heidelberg

ab 22.oo Uhr "NachtJazzExpress"

presents the modernARTparty

"ExpressBetriebsJazz"

Live:

- "Die Stahlband"
- Liedermacher "Äxel"

DJs:
- sailəntsfiəʳ/ (audiophilets)
- Witwe Bolte
- M.
- Anja

(Swing/Funk/Beat/SKA)

Bilderannewand:
- KatzMaus

We love you Zouma

2009-10-14T13:41:00.008+02:00

I would like to introduce the new addition to our family that has been keeping me from focussing on anything else at the moment besides her sweet face. We adopted Zouma from a pound in Egypt about two weeks ago. When we got her she was absolutely petrified and has since slowly began to come out of her shell. We love her to bits and are trying our best to integrate her into German life. She is incredibly nervous and curious at the moment and doing a wonderful job getting to know her new home, neighborhood and her many new admirers. Watching her is like watching a baby discover the world for the first time, she is fascinated by everything.

She is about 9 months old which makes her about 6 in human years, so you can imagine what a task it is to follow her around teaching her what she can and can't put in her mouth and where she can pee! My husband and I have turned into new parents over night and naturally, we can't manage to talk about anything else. So, if you see us on the street, beware, you are in for a long discussion about our new baby. You know those annoying parents who try to put their new born babies on the phone when they make a cute sound and speak incessantly about their moment to moment experiences? Well, that's us!

I can't begin to express how much joy that Zouma has brought into our lives and how good it feels to have rescued her from one of only two shelters in Egypt. When Zouma was rescued a group of children were trying to drown her in a canal. She came to the shelter as a street dog and is incredibly obedient and wonderfully gentile for such a history. She is a mix of many races, but belongs to the Egyptian desert dog clan which dates back to before Christ. If you live in Europe and would like to rescue a dog that desperately needs a home check out the Egyptian Society for Mercy to Animals and Spare Lives. The shelters in Egypt are overflowing, so if you are considering getting a puppy of your own, please look at these sites above first.

Workstead

2009-09-16T12:03:00.004+02:00

Photo courtesy of Design Sponge

The ever increasing popularity in the utilization of recycled materials for design purposes seems to have created a new genre. This table below from Workstead in NY resembles something found out of the industrial revolution with a contemporary twist. Made out of 100% recycled materials, this piece is not only smart design, it has a story. The base was once used to support the hull of a ship.

Workstead is a collaboration between Swedish born designer Stefanie Brechbuehler and North Carolina native Robert Andrew Highsmith. The table above is one of Robert's designs which is available through custom order in several finishes and heights. Robert studied music for 15 years until he decided to pursue an architecture degree at the Rhode Island School of Design, where both both partners received their Masters. Workstead is a full service design and architecture firm with a very unique sustainable approach. I have only captured a few of their pieces here, but a more in depth look of their larger projects can be viewed on their site.

The Independants

2009-09-11T14:46:00.003+02:00

Tent City - July 2009

Librado Romero / New York Times

I always have an eye out for the non-profit sector of arts initiatives because they offer some of the most exciting programming within the field of contemporary art due to their uncompromising visions. Today I would like to share a few of the spaces that I have most recently discovered here in Germany and abroad.

Not An Alternative, Brooklyn

Not An Alternative manages a non-profit multi purpose venue named 'The Change You Want To See Gallery and Convergence Stage' who's mission is to integrate art, activism and theory in order to create a greater understanding of world events, semiotics and history. They recently teamed up with Picture the Homeless and Reclaim NYC to stage a temporary intervention on a bank owned lot in Harlem erecting a tent city for the Homeless. As an initial diversion for the protest, the participants dressed up as production crew members to stage a scenario for the filming of a music video. After the tent city was established more than 100 homeless and allied protesters joined to oppose the lack of affordable housing in the city and attempted to demonstrate the solutions that could be achieved for the homeless by utilizing vacant spaces in the city. Despite a successful day, at least 10 people were arrested for remaining on the property after being asked to leave by the police.

Not An Alternative houses a production workshop filming studio and editing suite. In addition to their exhibition program they offer regular lectures, screenings, workshops, artist talks and panel discussions.

Supportico Lopez, Berlin

'Basking in what feels like an 'ocean of grace', I realize that I am not looking at it but rather, I AM it, recogniszing myself.' - Emily Wardill, 2009

Supportico Lopez was founded in Napoli in 2003 and relocated to Berlin a few years later. The Gallery calls itself a 'curatorial project'. They function with complete autonomy relying entirely on the initiative of private individuals. They attempt, through their projects, to create a better understanding of the international contemporary art world and the social aspects that go into the production of artworks.

Having recently exhibited Emily Wardill was a particularly strong choice for Supportico Lopez. Their choices emphasize the gallery's reach and commitment towards being a competitive force within the Berlin gallery scene. Wardhill is a film maker and a senior lecturer at the Central Saint Martin's College of Art in London. Her work has been widely exhibited all over the world and is set to have a solo show at De Appel in Amsterdam in 2010.

The Next show at Supportico 'Exhume to Consume' from Marius Engh is scheduled to open on the 19th of September.

Self Service Open Art Space, Stuttgart

'Helen Remained Silent', 2009

Alan Cicmak

Self Service is a project by the Kunstverein Dialekt e.V. which is being temporarily run under the name White Heat in collaboration with the Künstlerhaus Stuttgart, Hermes und der Pfau, Katrin Mundt & Jan Lochte. Self Services program comprises installation, video, film screenings, drawing and painting. Currently on show is 'Hellen Remained Silent' from Alan Cicmak. The German born artist recently completed a residency in Los Angeles at the MAK Center where he researched a site called Surfridge, a no-mans land next to LAX airport, the result of a 1960's expansion project. Cicmak investigates the possibilities of representation in real space with sculpture, installation and film. I would recommend taking a look at his website which provides a very in depth look at his work. This show is definitely worth a visit.

Hermes und der Pfau, Stuttgart

Society for Actually Happening Art Presents 'A Rise and Fall' performed by Hands at White Heat Temporary Art Space, 7.7.2009

Hermes und der Pfau in Stuttgart is a young not-for-profit gallery founded by Anne-Sofie Ruckhaberle and Philipp Ziegler. The gallery presents regular solo and group exhibitions and was featured in this years NYC event for independent galleries 'No Soul For Sale' from X Initiative.

Opening on the 17 of September at 7pm will be Karl Orton's "The Jolly Smashing of the Uncanny'. The artist will be presenting an installation based on the idea of the art worlds interpretation of appropriation and its connection to the uncanny. Orton was born in the UK and studied at the Staedelschule in Frankfurt after working for Maison Martin Margiela in Paris for 3 years.

El Cosmico, The Future of the Art Community & Where to Find the Really Hip Hotels

2009-08-28T19:13:00.018+02:00

Have you ever seen something so inspiring that you wish you had thought of it first? Well, this is one of those times for me. The awe inspiring hotelier Liz Lambert, known otherwise (and I quote) as the 'Aviator of Cool' for the hip Austin, Texas crowd is wowing us again with her latest lodging concept El Cosmico in Marfa, Texas. The project is still under construction, but we should all get a jump on this creation because it is going to be legend - wait for it - dary!

Detail of Vintage Trailer

Photo courtesy of El Cosmico blog

Ok, lets see if I can sum it up for ya! Deep breath........Lambert and her uber-qualified team are covering all the contemporary life style bases on this one by creating a full functioning community/hotel/artist haven on 15 acres of land with renovated vintage trailers, rammed earth buildings, solar showers, hammocks, a greenhouse, an amphitheater, an arthouse & of course, a bar. Some of the more luxurious features to come, if that were possible, include a pool, a pavilion, fire pits and a few wood fired hot tubs. Lambert is working with the architecture firm Lake/Flato - winners of the AIA National Firm Award known for their dedication to sustainable design & Jack Sanders of Design Build Adventure.

Design Build Adventure Arrive At Work

Photo courtesy of El Cosmico Blog

Broadford Farm Pavilion - Sun Valley, Idaho

Photo courtesy of Lake/Flato

Carraro Residence - Kyle, Texas

Photo courtesy of Lake/Flato

Lake LBJ House - Lake LBJ, Texas

Photo courtesy of Lake/Flato

I have been doing a lot of Texas surfing lately and it is definitely a force to be reckoned with. In addition to a slew of other initiatives, Lambert seems to be one of the central figures contributing to states current progressive projects. A few weeks ago I discovered Ballroom Marfa, a non-profit Gallery space with a program that would humble the likes of Larry Gagosian and Charles Saatchi. In addition to its small but select group of contemporary art spaces Marfa actually has a long history in the arts. Since the fabled minimalist Donald Judd moved there in the 70's it has been recognized as an established art community and a significant destination for collectors and historians. Who ever thought that a small west Texas town with a population of 2,300 bordering the northeastern seat of the Chihuanhuan Desert could be so desirable! The terrain, the earth installations and the wild climate are known to be some of the towns most attractive aspects for tourists.

Donald Judd

15 untitled works in concrete, Marfa

1980-1984 detail

Thunderbird Hotel, Marfa

Ballroom Marfa Gallery, Marfa

If I were to indroduce Liz Lambert properly - in all her entirety and associations, this post might turn into a small book. In addition to El Cosmico, Lampert is also responsible for the Hotel San Jose, The Thunderbird hotel (Marfa), The Belmont Hotel, Jo's Coffee, and my personal Favorite Hotel St. Cecilia. One of the most important and unifying of characteristics among these hotels which also emphasizes Lambert's eco friendly concept and appreciation for design is that they are all classic vintage structures dating from the 30's to the 50's. Each Hotel retains its former glory despite having been renovated and reconstructed to cater to a more modern aesthetic. The idea that one can create a string of diverse, hip, luxurious hotels without ever having to build a new energy sucking monstrosity is a welcome transformation.

Hotel San Jose, Austin

Belmont Hotel, Dallas

Jo's Coffee, Austin - Shares a parking lot with the Hotel San Jose

Lambert's team and aesthetic approach has reinvented the hotel industry in such an extraordinary way that it makes one wonder why they ever stayed in hotels to begin with. Her cool, achingly beautiful design savvy paired with her environmental sensibility is sure to inspire the senses and blow the mind!

Hotel St. Cecilia, Soul Pool

Hotel St. Cecilia, Austin

Hunter S. Thompson for Sheriff, 1970 (Suite 1)

I am just beaming with anticipation for Lambert's latest work of art. The road to El Cosmico Village is intended to be lined with Art Shacks housing a silk screen workshop, a pottery studio, and a darkroom. My only question is, 'when can I move in?'

Photo courtesy of the El Cosmico blog by Lexi Meece

I'm sure that I will be returning with posts about any one of these fabulous locations very soon, so stay tuned. In the meantime, I HIGHLY recommend you very carefully peruse and drool over all these time consuming links that I have posted here & maybe book a flight to Texas?! El Cosmico is not yet complete, but the bar is open!

Valentin Löllmann - Extraordinary Design

2009-08-18T20:45:00.003+02:00

Spotted this today on Design Sponge and had to spread the love! These gorgeous photos were taken by the artist himself. This is Valentin's first collection, and a promising one it is! Check out the chair from this collection on his website, it would make any room. I love any designer that can take pieces of antique furniture and give new meaning to them. I have always wondered what one could do with a beautiful un-repairable piece from the turn of the century, Lollmann is right up my alley. These pieces want to make me run to my local junk store and get right to it!!

CocoRosie - live in Karlsruhe

2009-08-15T10:21:00.011+02:00

My beloved wife Kate took me to the CocoRosie concert in Karlsruhe for my birthday a few weeks ago. It was a marvelous performance by the two sisters, their human beatbox TEZ and their pianist.

The atmosphere at the Tollhaus was awesome also in part due to the audience's wild enthusiasm!

In September 2009 they'll start their North American Tour So, if you get a chance to see them, don't miss it!

Dash in & Dash out

2009-08-03T16:49:00.004+02:00

For an artist that represented so much of the anger, hurt and aggression of his generation, its hard not to feel that some hope has been lost with the passing of Dash Snow. His death, much like his art, followed the NY City code of excess - check in, take over, create anarchy, become an emblem for your generation, trash a hotel room or two, establish iconic status within the Artworld and accidentally overdose in a posh hotel in the city.

Snow's art was the kind you had to have a love - hate relationship with & that's the way he wanted it. He was obviously self indulgent, but his work was also honest, vulnerable and generous.

Photos courtesy of tinyvices.com

Razzle Dazzle in Venice

2009-07-08T12:14:00.026+02:00

The German Artist Tobias Rehberger has been chosen as this years recipient of the Golden Lion Award for the best artist at the Venice Bienalle for his Cafe created in collaboration with Artek. Rehberger has been considered a 'complete original' since the early 90's represented by Freidrich Petzel Gallery. He actually won the award for best young artist at the Bienalle in 1993 and has shown no signs of slowing down since. His pieces are monumental, collaborative, communicative, ambiguous and come with a great deal of financial backing. Famed for his approach to art production and combining his aesthetic with the practical characteristics of design, his cafeteria at the Biennale illustrates his interest in both the social and historical mutations of artistic practice in contemporary art.

Rehberger modeled his Cafe after the Razzle Dazzle or Dazzle Style that the Americans and the British used on their ships during World War I to evade the German U boats that had been sinking their ships at a dangerous rate. This form of camouflage that they adapted from the then current cubist style promoted by british naval officer and artist Norman Wilkinson helped the boats to blend into the appearance of the sea and sky which constantly fluctuates. The designs created an optical illusion which made it difficult for the enemy to gage the course and speed of the target effectively making it harder to hit with a torpedo.

Some of Rehberger's most ambitious projects consist of commissioning knock off Mercedes and Porsche designs produced in Thailand, large sculptures, installations and film projects. For Rehberger's cars he sent only sketches drawn from memory to the factories without any further instructions in which the final output showed some recognizable traits from the original designs and left the rest to be freely interpreted, hence revealing the cars as mere copies. In his piece from 2006 'American Traitor Bitch' Rehberger collaborated with Danish-Vietnamese artist Danh Vo. In an effort to raise questions surrounding authorship Rehberger gave the conceptual work to Danh Vo who used the story of his Father's escape from Vietnam with a boat that he had built after the war to create a basis for the works construction. Rehberger used Danh Vo's recollections of his Father's story and the the boat itself to create a work which embodied various interpretations while staying true to Rehberger's signature style.

American Traitor Bitch, 2006

The poster below is from a project that examines how the constructions of final products are often hidden titled "On Otto" in which Rehberger literally made a film in reverse. He began with this movie poster below, a title sequence and finished with a screenplay. Rehberger chose to collaborate with individuals working in the movie business as opposed to working with artists in order to better expose each aspect of the full scale film making process.

Starting point for the project 'On Otto' , 2007

For Rehberger it's all about flipping our perspectives and changing the status quo. His deconstructive approach allows him to delve into the making of things, the standards of visual culture, and break out of the white cube. Essentially, he attempts to show us what's behind the curtain, how refreshing.

Here below are some images of the WWI ships after their Razzle Dazzle camouflage makeovers.

Bolte's "weekly" music recommendation

2009-06-28T14:58:00.006+02:00

This time I'd like to present you Mos Def's new album THE ECSTATIC

Released: June 9, 2009
Label: downtown

If you want to listen to it, go to last.fm or to http://www.downtownmusic.com/artist/mos-def

A Tale of Two Collectors

2009-06-26T13:07:00.007+02:00

HERB & DOROTHY tells the extraordinary story of Herbert Vogel, a postal clerk, and Dorothy Vogel, a librarian, who managed to build one of the most important contemporary art collections in history with very modest means. In the early 1960s, when very little attention was paid to Minimalist and Conceptual Art, Herb and Dorothy Vogel quietly began purchasing the works of unknown artists. Devoting all of Herb's salary to purchase art they liked, and living on Dorothy's paycheck alone, they continued collecting artworks guided by two rules: the piece had to be affordable, and it had to be small enough to fit in their one-bedroom Manhattan apartment. Within these limitations, they proved themselves curatorial visionaries; most of those they supported and befriended went on to become world-renowned artists including Sol LeWitt, Christo and Jeanne-Claude, Richard Tuttle, Chuck Close, Robert Mangold, Sylvia Plimack Mangold, Lynda Benglis, Pat Steir, Robert Barry, Lucio Pozzi, and Lawrence Weiner.

After thirty years of meticulous collecting and buying, the Vogels managed to accumulate over 2,000 pieces, filling every corner of their tiny one bedroom apartment. "Not even a toothpick could be squeezed into the apartment," recalls Dorothy. In 1992, the Vogels decided to move their entire collection to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. The vast majority of their collection was given as a gift to the institution. Many of the works they acquired appreciated so significantly over the years that their collection today is worth millions of dollars. Still, the Vogels never sold a single piece. Today Herb and Dorothy still live in the same apartment in New York with 19 turtles, lots of fish, and one cat. They've refilled it with piles of new art they've acquired.

HERB & DOROTHY is directed by first time filmmaker Megumi Sasaki. The film received the Golden Starfish Award for the Best Documentary Film and Audience Award from the 2008 Hamptons International Film Festival. It has also received Audience Awards from the 2008 SILVERDOCS Film Festival and the 2009 Philadelphia Cinefest. Palm Springs International Film Festival named HERB & DOROTHY one of their "Best of Fest" films in 2009.

Text from Herb & Dorothy

Henrique Oliveira and The Art of Visual Poetics

2009-06-22T20:45:00.005+02:00

I discovered Henrique Oliveira through a blog I frequent called Grid Impact from a friend of mine here in Heidelberg. Oliveira had his first solo show at the Rice University Gallery in Houston, Texas in March. He uses salvaged wood from the streets of São Paolo where he lives and works to create these incredibly moving instillations. I highly recommend a trip to his website which is in a word 'mind-blowing'. As a gallerist, I would fight to represent this man! Thanks to Clair at Grid Impact who also runs a creative consulting firm for the tip!

The Eye of Engman

2009-06-22T20:33:00.006+02:00

There is something so special about how artist Camilla Engman sees the world. She is one of the people who's shoes I would love to walk in for just a few days! Thanks to Camilla for posting these lovely reminders of the natural progression of things. She is a master at capturing the seasons in their most stunning moments. This post is a little personal indulgence and a soothing one at that!

The Curatorial Heroin's

2009-06-16T14:06:00.002+02:00

What, How and for Whom is a curatorial collective formed in Zagreb in 1999 by four woman who decided to get to the heart of cultural and artistic projection and its motives. They have been asked to curate the Istanbul Biennial this year and have chosen a rather prevalent theme under the title 'What Keeps Mankind Alive', a lyric from Bertolt Brecht's The Threepenny Opera. Given the fact that this question may be more relevant to us today than it was when Brecht wrote it 80 years ago, it is absolutely refreshing to see curators deal with such potent social and economic issues head on. WHW introduced their conceptual framework for the Biennial with a performance enacted by themselves as opposed to the traditional press conference format. Some of the questions being asked this year pertain to our systems of value under capitalism, ways of action, artistic production and understanding. The Biennial takes place from September 12 - November 8.

Bolte's "weekly" music recommendation

2009-05-14T18:34:00.008+02:00

Long time no see!

This time I'd like to present the newest Clutchy Hopkins album: Clutchy Hopkins meets Lord Kenjamin - Music is my medicine

Label: ubiquity records
Released: 4/21/09

A new story is out about the mysterious man. Read it yourselves!

The Whole Story

Late last year Ubiquity was approached by the mysterious Misled Children about another project from Clutchy Hopkins, the man they claim to represent. A vintage Caribbean tracksuit jacket was found in the office fridge, and written in permanent marker on the inside right arm was a request for a meeting where we would “get another piece of the puzzle.” Despite the goose chase involved in putting out the last album we could not pass up the opportunity to hear some more Clutchy Hopkins music. We agreed to meet the Misled Children in Joshua Tree, CA. Sweating from the 110 degree heat and skeptical about the possibility of a no-show we went to the Joshua Tree Tavern for a cool beer. The bar tender spotted us as we walked in. When we ordered a couple of drinks he looked us straight in the eye and whispered, “Follow me.”

Taking us to a messy back room, filled with empty glass bottles, a collection of stuffed owls, and strewn with old newspapers, he handed over a plastic bag and said, “I think this is what you came for.” Despite the lack of liquid refreshment we decided to leave quickly, the local eyes were glued on us and we were itching to get at the contents of the bag which by now we knew had to have been planted by the Misled Children. Inside was a short stack off Apex 2-inch reel-to-reel tapes and a small journal. The journal contained stories of Clutchy Hopkins, and his move to Barbados. The dates of the stories were vague but seemed to span the late 1970s through the early 1980's. Hopkins had moved there in search for a medicine man, who also hand-made percussion instruments, named Lord Kenjamin. Over the years Hopkins had heard stories about this simple man and as the notes read “his mission to help people come to a place of peace and humbleness through music.” Hopkins searched for several weeks, tricked on several occasions into dead ends by the local children. At times it seemed that the village people wanted nothing to do with Hopkins, “The children enjoy confusing me with directions that lead me back to where I started. It is like a daily joke,” he wrote, “One day they tell me to head east, the next day west, and all with a suspicious smile.”

Hopkins was about to give up his search and go home when he was bitten by a poisonous Lionfish. He passed out from the pain while in a side street on his way back to his hotel room. He was dehydrated and in bad shape after laying there for nearly 2 whole days. A group of the local children found him close to death when their soccer ball bounced down the street and rolled into his listless body. Feeling guilty that they had misled him on his quest, the children carried Hopkins on a stretcher made of sugar cane to Lord Kenjamin. For the next 3 months Hopkins was in and out of consciousness. At this point in the journal the notes in the book have been ripped-out, we don’t know why. But the next page that is legible reads “With faint memories of a 4 track, deep-rooted beats, and a melodica, I have been brought back to health by the help of Lord Kenjamin and the music we made together.

As a token of my appreciation I have promised the good Lord Kenjamin that the world would one day hear these recordings. The music has made a huge impact on our spirits and health during this time. We will call this record "Music Is My Medicine.”

Text found at https://www.ubiquityrecords.com/, where you can listen to the track preview, too.

Maarten Baas

2009-05-12T17:36:00.008+02:00

During my last trip to Antwerp, I visited Walter, one of my favorite shops in the whole wide world. This is the kind of place where an avid art collector or gallerist would shop on the weekends. They showcase some of the leading avand-garde fashion designers from around the globe, but the most impressive aspect of the space, is the space itself. Despite the fascinating interior, and the garage door entry Walter incorporates Bruce Nauman like installations to feature their collections, contemporary art and cutting edge design. Last time I was there, I came into physical contact with the work of Maarten Baas for the first time. Having seen his Smoke series from 2004 and the hype that surrounded his historically belligerent style, it was easy to expect great things from this young Dutch designer. His Clay Furniture series above singles itself out for its humanist and hand made qualities, which I find in complete contrast to most furniture design today. It reminds me of the sculptural work of Louis Bourgeois and the aesthetics of Tim Burton. I highly recommend viewing his work in the flesh! I've added a few photos of Walter below as a teaser!

Another Bathroom

2009-05-06T10:25:00.010+02:00

I've been helping a girlfriend of mine design her apartment and the amount of details one must consider when given the opportunity to have everything to your liking is absolutely overwhelming. Honestly, I have never considered what kind of toilet I would most desire given the chance! Last week we looked at hundreds of bathroom fittings and tiles to get an idea of what she wanted, but the more you look, the harder it becomes to find something truly unique. After a long tiring day we both went home to hunt on the Net as one does. A few hours later Nicole sent me this link to the Aqhayoncollection from Jamie Hay'on out of Madrid. The designs from this collection are so beautiful and unusual, I just had to share.

Rebel Rebel

2009-04-29T21:55:00.017+02:00

Richard Parry, New Dome drinking Club, 2008, oil on canvas

I began looking into artistic initiatives that attempt to do what all good artists should do - look for alternatives. Here are a few images I have gathered together for inspiration. More of Parry's work (featured above) can be seen at Mot International and Parry's own space, The New Dome, a form of resistance in it's own right.

Merlin Carpenter, 2007

Unknown, 2007

This clip is a random link I found on The New Dome website marked as 'Buy Art'. It's a shocker, but very entertaining!

Trophy, Elizabeth Price, ongoing since 2000, stainless steel trophy inscribed with the galleries in which is has been exhibited.

'New Dome Drinking Club' and 'Trophy' photos courtesy of Mot International

Jeff Depner

2009-04-28T23:40:00.008+02:00

Reconfigured grid paintings No. 1-6 , oil on canvas

I am loving formalism at the moment, so these paintings from Jeff Depner out of Vancouver are really getting to me. I just love everything about them. All of the work on his website is wonderful.

Recycled Porcelain

2009-04-28T23:30:00.003+02:00

Just discovered these new pieces from Studio Violet via oh Joy.

what a day

2009-04-28T00:37:00.009+02:00

I know exactly how she feels. Love these photos from Gia Coppola at Every Day I Show.

Just a little distraction

2009-04-24T17:04:00.004+02:00

I know, I know - I am not supposed to be looking a this stuff right now. My life is supposed to be dedicated to theorizing all the marvelously complex aspects of the contemporary art world, but LOOK AT THESE! I decided to take a break after countless hours of research which has left my brain quite numb and have a beer. After a little internet surfing indulgence, there they were staring me straight in the face. The designer Issy Solomon, orginally from Veracruz, Mexico is a self taught jewelry designer, and an incredibly spontaneous character. He moved to Miami after high school and started working with semi-precious stones, then one morning, up and decided to move to NY City. Three days later he found himself in Manhattan with a stall at the flee market on Prince Street. His designs started selling and the rest is history. After partnering with Zulema for NY Fashion Week, he has decided to launch his own ready-to-wear line expected to launch this year.

I don't know about you, but I rarely hear of such a success story. Solomon works with lucite, suede, charms, enamel, glass and crystal from old chandeliers. I love the recycled aspects of his work and the strong formal design of these earrings. I could just eat them up & they are only $45!

Issy Solomons Jewelry can be found at the I Love Shop in NY and Charm and Chain.

Little lights in the tunnel

2009-04-23T10:42:00.008+02:00

After my Creed manifesto yesterday, I thought I would lighten the load a bit with this very comical mustache key holder from artist Ben Floeter sold by the Curiosity Shoppe in San Francisco.

In addition to the Curiosity Shoppe being one of the coolest and most creative businesses in the bay area, the owners Lauren and Derek have recently released a new book entitled 'Wallpaper Projects' where they share a ton of their DIY ideas. These two are the kind of people anyone with an appreciation for design would be in awe of. They have something of a cult following for their DIY Wednesdays project for Design Sponge, (the pillar of design blogs), and run their own blog, smartandcrafts.com. Grace posted about their new book yesterday & did an interview with the duo which can be viewed right here! 'Wallpaper Projects' can be purchased through the Curiosity Shoppe.

Images courtesy of the Curiosity Shoppe

HOPE CAN BE A DOWNER

2009-04-22T10:59:00.015+02:00

Things, 2004

I have been looking for something to post about for a few days now but everything seems so irrelevant lately. There is a kind of guilt looming over me that makes it impossible to appreciate any commodity. As the "crisis" worsens and I begin to fully realize the effect it has on the people I love, not to mention the individuals most in need in the world, I have begun to turn to artists who appeal to the more empathetic or emotional side of me. Its funny who you turn to in times of a need for social legitimacy in art - Martin Creed was certainly not who I had in mind. His practically naked minimalism has always bothered me in the past. It was like someone stripped the art from the art, leaving us with, well, nothing. And as long as I am being honest, his scrunched up piece of paper (Work No. 867, Paper, 2008) neatly placed inside a vitrine balanced atop a holy plinth really pissed me off. At the time, I thought, is this really where we want to go? And, explain to me again what the point is of turning the lights on and off without end in a room at the Tate Britain? After he won the 2001 Turner Prize for this piece, I really had something to complain about. There was no matter of theory that was going to convince me that 'the lights going on and off' (2000) could maintain any sense of integrity. I felt deeply insulted, as if he were attempting to take the piss out of all art lovers.

As you can probably gather, our current state of affairs in the world has led me to look at Creed a bit differently. Perceiving the sheer extraneousness of his work was never the problem, but now I begin to see merit in it which leads me to believe that Creed's work does possess valuable content. To us, the extraneous is valuable and comes in many forms, sizes, colors & veneers. Maybe this is why Creed insists upon using existing material for his work, rather than creating more 'stuff'. The Paper piece could be an ode to misdirected sentimentality, a reminder that there can exist just as much narrative, memory and meaning in a blank scrunched up piece of paper as anything else. Although, this is where I always got confused. Why do we have to look at it that way and what makes it relevant?

Work No. 867, 2008, Paper

I have read Creed's commentary on his own work and he doesn't seem to be an overly complex sort of individual, not the kind you would expect from the contemporary art world anyway. He does not protect his artists 'persona' with some impossibly pretentious, difficult to penetrate esoteric language. He simply "always wanted to make things", if I recall correctly, and his work is dedicated to the emotive side of himself, a need to communicate if you will. This piece at the top was the entry point for my newly discovered appreciation. I was looking for 'things' to post about on the internet because all of my good magazines had dried up or closed down due to lack of advertising contracts, and the last 6 exhibitions I saw had left a lot to be desired. Somehow, this 'who cares about all this crap' mood I was in, led me to this photo. It reminded me of something my Mother has always said to me, "honey, they are just things". I always knew she was right, but I could so easily point out a 'things' worth, whether it be aesthetic, intellectual, historic or sentimental. I suppose this is why I studied art theory - to further my justifying skills. I had to prove to myself, or more importantly, prove to others, that art was a necessary decadence for society, and yes, I always believed that it was decadent. This belief is something that has always contributed to my underlying disenchantment with regards to art and the market it now revolves around. Maybe this is why it is necessary for me to focus more on the social, the political and the emotive side of creativity rather than its provocative aspects. I feel a strong need for art to play a significant role in our lives, as opposed to an object which mirrors the iconography of trashy pop culture and functions as a bargaining tool for the Fortune 500. Possessing such strong ties to the art world, I personally don't want to be associated with a facile, exclusive, and pre-meditated machine that revolves around commodity vs. culture discourses and concerns itself more with affirming its utopian ideals than engaging with a real audience, namely, the world.

Just to clarify, my hyper awareness will probably never dwindle my appreciation or love for art, design & just about everything else I can't live without, but it does help me appreciate the finer things in life, and the futility of everything else. Futility in art is a hard pill to swallow. I suppose this is what Creed's work shows us, although he does replace a morbid message with a hopeful one. His work is more focused on the nature of interior contemplation rather than the exterior. I believe that when art can form an interior image within the viewer, this image becomes larger than the artwork itself and is then capable of taking on a life of its own. When art helps us understand something about ourselves, it must not dictate or mirror culture from its exterior nor should it play into our expectations. Due to this lack of appeasement, there is a generosity to Creed's work that borders on salvation, I just hope that people don't take it too seriously - I know I do. So, as hard as it is for me to admit, I think we all need a little Creed right now.

Work No. 790, EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE ALRIGHT, 2007, NEON

Photos courtesy of Martin Creed

Art & Economic Satire

2009-04-16T13:40:00.006+02:00

Whilst searching for some semblance of of artists responses to the economic crisis looming over us, I discovered something rather unusual. Canadian born artist Melanie Gilligan, known for investigating the relationships between politics aesthetics and their political economy has got the jump on the financial crisis with her 4 part series 'crisis in the credit system'. Gilligan had shows at the Tate Modern and the Serpentine last year and is well known for her critical contribution to art. A project sponsored by Artangel, the videos are a product of 7 months of research and interaction with major hedge fund managers, key financial journalists, economists, bankers and debt activists. Gilligan has scripted a parody of a major investment banks effort to run a brainstorming and role playing seminar for its employees in the hopes that they might discover constructive strategies to work against crashing market. It is a little difficult to understand at times unless you have spent the last few years on the trading floor, but it is also witty, intelligent, and makes you feel like you are viewing an improv acting class from behind the scenes.

Songs of broken glass

2009-04-13T22:37:00.005+02:00

Am Freitag, 17. April 09, tritt der Singer/Songwriter Nick Lawrence (England) mit seiner unvergleichlichen Stimme im Romanischen Keller auf und spielt seine Lieder im ersten Set solo und im zweiten mit Begleitung.

Danach legen die DJs /sailəntsfiəʳ/ (audiophilets) und Witwe Bolte ihre Platten auf.

Wir freuen uns sehr auf Euer Kommen!

Heaven in Rioja

2009-03-29T20:44:00.012+02:00

I finally made it to the sauna with my friend Mirjam today after a month of failed attempts. There are somethings that I have to force myself to make time for, and they always seem to be the activities that are best for me and my well being. So, there I was relaxing next to the pool between steams looking at the new German Elle Decor and boom! I have found my next vacation destination and it is an aesthetes dream. Casa Josephine, Josephine, Josephine! A 19th century manor house set within the La Rioja region in Spain, famous for its quaint Medieval towns and glorious wine making tradition, this guest house for 12 is a pure expression of love for design. There is absolutely nothing lacking in its location either. Surrounding the small village of Sorzano, an over abundance of activities are within a short distance, if you can pull yourself away from the Casa. Architecture and Wine seem to be the indulgences of the area featuring modern buildings from the likes of Santiago Calatrava, Frank Gehry and Zaha Hadid including a very large array of monasteries, cathedrals and villas surrounded by miles of vineyard. The nearest airport is Bilbao, leaving you the perfect opportunity to check out the Guggenheim there before setting off to Casa Josephine and the sights that await you.

Try the Train

2009-03-26T17:36:00.004+01:00

I discovered a fantastic website today for Vintage photography called Shorpy.com and felt compelled to share one photo which really struck me. This image is called "Toward Los Angeles" and was taken by Dorothea Lange in March of 1937. If you have a moment, pop over to Shorpy's, it's a gem.

Contemporary Art & Ethnology

2009-03-26T12:50:00.008+01:00

Haunch of Venison gallery seems to be bravely weathering the economic storm with their recent opening at the former Museum of Mankind in Burlington Gardens, London. The newly renovated space had not seen daylight since it housed the British Museums ethnographical collection from 1970 -1997. Considered to be one of the most ambitious shows undertaken by a private gallery in London this season, Mythologies features 40 artists work both known and unknown. The show aims to acknowledge the 21,000 sqft buildings history by recreating a Cabinet of Curiosities effect, showcasing works that focus upon themes surrounding nature and ethnographic representation. Fortunately, it is not the powerhouse artists that are receiving the acclaim this time. Michael Glover at the Independent offers some interesting insights with regards to the shows curatorial approach and it's artists. This is only the first installment of a broader series of exhibitions from Haunch of Venison in Burlinton Gardens.

View of Exhibition - Photo: Peter Mallet

(Forground) 'Siblings' by Jochem Hendricks , 2008 (Background) 'Totems' by Rachel Howard, 2008 - Photo: Peter Mallet

'Animatus Series' by Lee Hyungkoo, 2006-2007 - Photo: Peter Mallet

'Aladdin' by Stuart Haygarth, 2006

'The opposite of all those things' by Ivan and Heather Morison, 2008 - Photo: Peter Mallet

Photos courtesy of Design Boom

Do do List - Exhibitions

2009-03-23T13:52:00.015+01:00

I can't explain it, but every time I see a confessional, I think of Tracey. Her autobiographical style and fearlessness is something I have always admired. This show is a must see for me this season. For more information on this vivacious show, check out the Kunstmuseum Bern website.

Photo courtesy of a arte Studio Invernizzi Gallery, Milan

Francois Morellet's work is a fabulous representation of Concrete art. Born in 1926 in Cholet, France, he started out as a figurative painter until he turned to abstraction in the 50's. For Morellet, a work of art refers only to itself. His geometric forms which are usually perceived as emotionally neutral have linked him closely with Minimal and Conceptual art. An exhibition of his most recent works designed specifically for the newly renovated space at a arte Studio Invernizzi in Milan will be on view from the 19th of March - 8th of May. Not sure if I will get to Milan to see it, but I would highly recommend this show to anyone that can!

Pièce Détachée, 2009, metal, magnets, size variable

Photo courtesy of Xavier Hufkens

This new piece by Belgian born artist Michel Francois provides just the kind of fascination I am longing for in an exihibition. This particular piece above 'is a living, ephemeral network of magnetic spheres linked to metal rods that freely deploy themselves in the room by way of a random rhizomic profusion. Its precarious balance is maintained by the electromagnetic force between the elements.' I am interested in the hidden performative aspects of Francois' work & how the spectator might interact with such an exclusive space. This show only runs through the 4th of April at Xavier Hufkens in Brussels.

Show me the way to Middelberg! I am embarrassed to admit that it took Henrik Vibskov and Andreas Emineus for me to discover the Zeeuws Museum. The collaboration between Danish fashion & graphic designer duo entitled The Fringe Projects is shaping up to be the next Cremaster Cycle, with a whopping 10 parts. Nine have already been completed and exhibited world wide. The tenth project will be realized at the Zeeuws Museum and presented along side the other 9 which have taken years to develop. The artists have been granted permission to use the entire museum as their stomping ground in order that they might test the boundaries of the museum and its collections. The Fringe Projects, comprised of video, installation, performance, magazines, and fashion design will run through the 7th of June.

Magic Lantern, 1987

Audio Visual Installation

And last but not least, the one that got away. The paranormal, the occult, voices of the dead, photographing auras, telekinesis, digital media & the human condition. What doesn't Susan Hiller delve into? This image above is of one of Hiller's most seminal works. Originally commissioned for the Whitechapel Gallery, it consists of a triple slide projection of three disks of colored light - red, yellow and blue, which at times overlap or stand alone. The Magic Lantern is an investigation into color, our decent into modern media & the boundaries between scientific enquiry and the spiritual. Only two of her pieces are on display at the Swedish Contemporary Art Foundation in Stockholm till the 29th of March.

Road Trip - Maastricht Part 1

2009-03-05T16:12:00.018+01:00

Due to computer issues I haven’t been able to post about this amazing trip I took with my friend David a.k.a. (Mr. Boyd) last week. I attempted to put together a few ‘loose’ city guides for Maastricht and Antwerp and experienced some rather hilarious difficulties in the process. We arrived in Maastricht on a Friday afternoon & quickly realized that Carnival was in full swing. The Museum we attempted to visit was closed, and so were all the Galleries. However, some things did turn out swimmingly & we ended up seeing a side of the city we had yet to experience in all our years of short visits.

I had booked an apartment for us a few hours before we left, which I thought would be tiny because it cost a mere 56 Euro for the both of us. Boy was I wrong! After hiking up 6 flights of stairs, we discovered a 2 bedroom, 2 bath maisonette apartment with contemporary furnishings and a huge kitchen and living room. The apartment belongs to the St. Martenslane Hotel, just around the corner. I’ll just say that we could have stayed on no problem!

Maastricht's origins date back to the roman empire, so its churches illustrate the development of religious architecture over the last 1000 years. The image above is of one of the many impressive altars that can be found in the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk. I have a great affinity for churches and cathedrals, especially the Dutch style. The paintings on view at the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk were hung beautifully and really enhanced my appreciation for Dutch painting, but it was the lighting conditions in the church itself that blew me away. The Dutch are famous for scenography and this was reflected everywhere throughout our stay. As you can see in the photos, Maastricht is not the sunniest place in Europe, so it helps that the Dutch are masters in the treatment of light and color. They have a way of turning somber darkness into a magnificent, color saturated dream.

I stumbled upon this great little design shop called Conflict and had a lovely conversation with a few of their staff members. I can't wait to get back there and purchase the wine rack in the first photo, it would look so good in our apartment! Sadly, I can't remember who its by. Artecnica and Droog Design were the most prominent features in the shop, as well as the obvious emphasis on Dutch designers.

Stay tuned for Maasricht Part 2!

luscious Design

2009-02-12T16:07:00.004+01:00

I have had my eye on these Log Bowls from Loyal Loot Collective for some time now. I felt compelled to 'catalog' these on our Blog just so I don't forget what to do with extra cash when it happens to fall into my lap. As you can see, one couldn't possibly purchase just a single piece. I find the contrast between the natural wood and the high gloss finish to be highly satisfying if you know what I mean! And, for your conscience, each bowl is handmade and eco-friendly made from recycled wood using only locally reclaimed trees. Loyal Loot Collective is a progressive design force comprised of four female designers. They seem to have a knack for creating objects which are not only serene, but timeless as well - a rare commodity in todays design market. The log bowls can be purchased at Rose and Radish in the USA and Mint in Europe - Two fabulous design destinations.

Inspired

2009-02-07T17:28:00.011+01:00

I am probably one of the most indecisive people in the world. Unfortunately, this character trait does not fly well when you are trying to figure out what you want to wear to your own wedding. I have never fancied myself a 'white dress' girl, so the search for alternatives has been long and wide. After a year of searching (seriously), I have finally discovered a designer that leaves me gasping for breath. Kate Towers out of Portland, Oregon has a story to match her incredibly authentic style. She is self taught, which blows my mind when I look at these images. After completing her studies in illustration, graphic design and fine art in New England, she moved to Portland and founded Seaplane, one of the most renowned independent fashion boutiques on the West Coast offering the best of bespoke, hand made & experimental fashion. In addition to being a haven for one of a kind designs, Seaplane is also a thriving artists community of sorts.

In 2008 Towers left Seaplane to focus on her own line, and thriving it is! Her creations can be found at Seaplane and on her Etsy page. I would gladly travel to Portland to meet this romantically inclined designer and just maybe commission her to make the dress I have only dreamed of! Here's a little taste of some of her designs.

Photos by Peter Van Beever

It's the little things

2009-02-02T11:34:00.015+01:00

It's wonderful to come across an artist that lifts your spirits by bringing to attention that which we take for granted. In a way, this is what art is all about - a slow and graceful unfolding of the world in all its beautiful intricacies and paths. My Mother has recently introduced me to the world, and I mean WORLD, of Nigel Peake. In addition to being uber-talented, Peake derives a pleasure from life that most of us dream of and commit ourselves daily to rediscovering. Personally, I find it difficult to appreciate every blade of grass, the unpretentious interior structure of a building, the texture of tiny things or something that is almost broken. This is not to say that I never take pleasure in reflecting upon subtle details, but I truly admire Peake's ability to demonstrate, or simply exist on such a beautifully subjective plane of being. Working within a vast stylistic structure comprised of architecture (he is an Architect), urban landscapes, maps, portraiture, photography, design, and just plain things - Peake speaks to us as a kind of 21st Century visual guru - uncovering the hidden possibilities for how we might view the material world anew, and make it our own.

Images via myloveforyou.typepad.com

*Discover Nigel Peake's publications at Analogue Books.

*There is a great interview with Peake here at myloveforyou! His discriptions are worth reading.

*For a complete professional profile of Nigel Peake, click here. It's quite a good summary of this one man show!

"The BIG Show" opening impressions

2009-01-10T15:07:00.028+01:00

Despite the blustery weather and freshly-iced streets, many came out for the latest and greatest opening at the Bourgeois Pig Gallery in old-town Heidelberg held January 5, 2009. Corset laces tightened, champagne chilled, and singular statement earrings donned...the faithful showed up to give thanks. Both for one another, and for the little, pink (pig) gallery that could.

Works include a retrospective of nearly all the artists who have previously graced the walls of the gallery along with some promising up-and-comers, local and otherwise. Mediums range from photography, mixed media, sculpture, collage and painting, to installation, furniture, video and more.

A highlight is the imposing, metal-spiked chair sitting dutifully in one corner, daring the brave to perch on it's... er, inviting lap.

And try it they did. Some, knowing it's secret, practically leapt onto the chair and eased themselves down as if slumbering down to a long winter's nap. Much to the delightful dismay of their friends. While others were more cautious, calculated and subdued.

Much the same can be said for the infectious, if not addictive vibe inside. If, outside, it was the coldest, dreariest, darkest, dullest night all year in Heidelberg proper, then inside was the utter opposite. (Could young owners, Marcus and Kate, find a way to bottle that energy, we'd all be lining up with needles poised.)

(high-resolution photos viewable here)

A week-long, tear-filled, smoking-allowed goodbye soiree is already underway, and culminates tonight with an even BIGGER! last hurrah. So get your party pants on and join the cool kids there tonight, starting at 20:00 (8:00pm for you yankees).

(Guest post & photos by Kassie Borreson)

THE BIG SHOW - THE BIG PARTY

2009-01-10T12:53:00.003+01:00

Liebe Freunde des Bourgeois Pig,

die letzten Tage sind für uns angebrochen und deswegen möchten wir euch gerne heute abend zur BIG PARTY einladen.

Für uns geht mit der Schließung des Bourgeois Pig ein großes und wichtiges Kapitel zu Ende. Wir schauen auf 14 Ausstellungen, 2 mal die Lange Nacht der Museen, viele Lesungen, Konzerte, Kooperationen und ein Strassenfest zurück und natürlich auf die Zeit, die wir mit Euch verbracht haben - eine Zeit mit viel Freude, Inspiration und kreativer Energie. Lasst uns also alle nochmal zusammenkommen und zum letzten Mal die (bourgeoise) Sau rauslassen.

Beginn: 20 Uhr

Für Getränke und Musik ist gesorgt!

Liebe Grüsse

Kate & Marcus

_________________________________________________

Dear Friends of the Bourgeois Pig,

Tonight's the night!

We are looking forward to celebrating with you the BIG PARTY!

After 14 exhibitions, 2 x the Long Night of the museums, many readings, concerts, Co-ops and one Street Party, and the time we spent with you - a time with lots of joy, inspiration and creative energy, it's time to party for the last time and "let the (bourgeois) pig out."

The party starts at 8 pm

Best regards

Kate & Marcus

THE BOYD LEGACY

2009-01-10T12:40:00.005+01:00

How often has it happened under the influence of the blue-collar drugs that young people had an idea that they found so amazing that they simply had to write it down? The next day, of course, the drivel created is merely an embarassment. My friends and I, hanging around in that state of mind asked each other a typical high-school style question, What will you name your children? After offering a few serious proposals, we soon offered the joke names, ‘Shithead’ might be an easy example. For one of our last names the answers seemed particularly amusing to us all: thus was born the ‘Boyd Legacy.’ We couldn’t stop laughing at the names for the children of Robert Boyd: Oogie Boyd, Dirtbag Boyd, Evil Ham Sandwich Boyd, … We rolled on the floor.
The odd thing was that the next day even sober the names still seemed funny. And the next weeks and months and even years led to more names and the list expanded as did the number of participants. We moved on to more important drinking games eventually, but I kept the list with me even as I moved several times – East Coast, West Coast, Europe.
Then recently something even odder happened: When Kate asked me to produce some artwork, I went through my things for all the odd junk I had that might be useful for a non-artist like me to use. The Boyd Names got thrown onto the pile and subsequently into Kate’s hands. What for me seemed just a nostagic amusement turned out to have appeal to others. I wouldn’t have dared to think it worth presenting in public, but Kate insisted. So now the Boyd Legacy is back and once again getting larger.

I could try to explain the appeal. The name Boyd allows for entertaining word games: Girl Meets Boyd, Flat as a Boyd, Sigmund Boyd, but the list is funny in other ways. For some names it’s necessary to really imagine a child of that name: Seizure Boyd, My Father Hates Me Boyd, What are you looking at Boyd. The longer the list the more odd associations appear; there were clearly moments when we were nothing but sexually aggressive teenagers and five dirty names with cunt and dick appear one after another, but then a Marshmallow Boyd (Is that even on the list?) comes along and warps the flow. The names can derive from movies, works of philosophy, insults, non-sequitors, quotes. In fact there are no rules. It’s better that way. I certainly won’t lay down any laws. Not all entries actually end in Boyd, though I hold that to be nearly indispensible. It’s like a mark of punctuation that holds all free roaming thoughts in the universe in one text.
We tried retyping the names way back when, but gave up. Having a list of typed and scrawled text adds to the spontaneaity. Somehow the process doesn’t allow people to get stuck in a rut. Once you worked out a few Boyd names of one nature, you become obligated to think of something completely different.
I will only encourage all people to add their own, handwritten or typed, electronic or verbal, carved in Mount Rushmore for all I care. We’re just having fun. We had fun at the opening at the Bourgeois Pig, where towards the end of the evening no one was allowed to leave until they had ‘boyded’. To join the boyding at the Bourgeois Pig just send your names to blog@bourgeoispig.de

Alisch & Paul: Mitternachtsgeschichten

2009-01-08T16:35:00.005+01:00

Eine musikalische Grusel-Lesung

Fahl klebt die Mondsichel über dem Königstuhl. Nur einige freudlose Lichtstrahlen durchdringen die tiefhängenden Wolkengewölle über dem tintenfarbenen Berg und fallen kraftlos in der Heidelberger Altstadt zu Boden.
In der Ingrimstraße Nr. 7 werfen kalte Kerzenflammen flackernde Schatten auf zwei dunkle Gestalten. Die eine entlockt einem Cello unirdische Töne: Mal grausig, mal poetisch-betörend, die andre liest aus einem Buch...
Mitternachtsgeschichten!

Eine musikalische Lesung: Verstörend-betörend und gruselig-grotesk... Lauschen Sie Liedern, Geschichten und Gesängen, die Sie um den Schlaf bringen…

Johannes Alisch: Schauriges Cello
(mit Musik von David Popper, Franz Liszt, Joh. Seb. Bach u.a.)

Matthias Paul: Ruchlose Rezitation
(mit Texten von Gustav Meyrink, Saki, H. P. Lovecraft u.a.)

Mitternachtsgeschichten heißt die „musikalische Grusel-Lesung“, die der Musiker Johannes Alisch und der Schauspieler und Regisseur Matthias Paul aus Heidelberg in immer neuen Varianten – vorzüglich in den dunklen Monaten des Jahres! – in der ganzen Rhein-Neckar-Region aufführen.
Die Vorführung ist nichts für schwache Nerven: Blutig und gespenstisch geht es in den kurzen, prägnanten Geschichten und Gedichten zu. Da rollen die Köpfe, Menschenfleisch wird zu Würsten verarbeitet, geschmeidige Katzen verwandeln sich in Kannibalen, barbusige Schönheiten ersaufen im Sumpf....
Gute zwei Stunden dauert die Lesung, die beiden Künstler werfen sich die literarischen Bälle auf der Bühne gekonnt zu. Hin und wieder treten die beiden im Dialog auf, die meisten Texte trägt Matthias Paul, im Dialog mit Johannes Alischs dunklen Cello-Klängen oder stimmungsvoller Gitarrenmusik, vor. Mal mit stoischer Ruhe, mal mit viel Verve interpretiert Paul Klassiker der phantastischen und der Schauerliteratur, liest Passagen von Gustan Meyrink, von H. P. Lovecraft und Edgar Allen Poe. Auch Sagen der Gebrüder Grimm haben „Alisch & Paul“ im Repertoire sowie Auszüge aus den Verhörprotokollen des Massenmörders Fritz Haarmann, des „Vampirs von Hannover“, der in den zwanziger Jahren 27 junge Männer getötet und anschliessend zerstückelt hatte. Hier brilliert Matthias Paul als halb-wahnsinniger, halb-berechnender Häftling im Gespräch mit einem Psychologen. Die Rolle ist keineswegs neu für ihn: In dem Drama „Der Totmacher“ war der Schauspieler bereits vor einigen Jahren auf Heidelberger Bühnen als Haarmann zu sehen.
Effektheischenden Jahrmarkts-Grusel sucht man in den „Mitternachts-geschichten“ der beiden Künstler allerdings vergeblich. Vielmehr ist der Titel ihres Programms wörtlich zu nehmen: „Alisch & Paul“ beschwören die dunkelste Stunde der Nacht herauf. Und so nimmt man eine wohlverdiente Gänsehaut nach der gut zweistündigen „musikalischen Grusel-Lesung“ mit nach Hause, wo man die erlebten Eindrücke noch lange schaurig-schön nachhallen lassen kann. Denn, wie es in einem der vorgertragenen Gedichte so schön heißt, „nur der ist weise, der das Dunkel kennt...“.

Termin: Do 8. Januar 2009
Beginn: 21 Uhr
Ort: Bourgeois Pig, Ingrimstr. 7, 69117 Heidelberg

It's Martini Time!

2009-01-07T15:46:00.004+01:00

As a part of the Bourgeois Pig closing extravaganza, starting tonight we are offering special events every night for 10 days. The first and simplest solution to your Wednesday blues- Martini Night with 'Captain Jack'. The bartender/actor/musician/translator extraordinaire from England via Hong Kong will be serving up his most imaginative Martini's while simultaneously DJing! Who knew this was possible? He will be getting a little help from our friends BP's Bolte and Hagen. If your in the mood for an after work aperitif, swing by around 7:30. Stay tuned for more blogging about The Big Show, on view till the 14th of January.

Art is dead, long live Art!

2009-01-07T13:47:00.008+01:00

THE BIG SHOW

2008-12-30T17:37:00.004+01:00

We are happy to present our next (and last) exhibition in the Bourgeois Pig gallery in Heidelberg. We'll show the works of friends and those, who supported and helped us over the last two years to create this wonderful space. Thanks for everything!

The opening starts Monday, January 5th, 7 pm.
Duration: 01/05 - 01/15/2009

We are looking forward to welcoming you!

Will you marry me again?

2008-12-23T13:53:00.002+01:00

Yes, it has been one year since Marcus and I said yes at Town Hall. For all of you still waiting on our Wedding, it's coming as soon as we have the time to plan it! Anyway, I am proud to say, wedding or not, that we are still happily married and it just keeps getin' betta. I love you Mr. Krause, thank you for being my wonderful Man! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

And by the way, Merry Christmas from the both of us!

Bolte's weekly music recommendation

2008-12-20T12:11:00.005+01:00

This time I offer you the recording from Mulatu Astatke & The Heliocentrics, live at Broad Casting, Cargo, London, 17 April 2008.

Mr Astatke, born 1943 in Ethiopia, is the founder of Ethio-Jazz.
The music of The Heliocentrics is a conglomerate of Jazz, Funk, Psychedelic, Rock and so on.
Together they are the hit!

You can download the whole recording (two parts) on eardrummer.

Vote! - Save the Villa Nachttanz

2008-12-14T16:00:00.007+01:00

There are places that hold a special significance for us all. In the case of the young culture hungry Heidelberger, it would be hard to imagine life here in our beautiful city without the Villa Nachttanz. For the last seven years the Villa has successfully functioned as the only independent cultural institution in Heidelberg. Meaning, that it generates its own funds without depending on external or governmental assistance and is run by a board of 20 or so members who function on a purely democratic basis. In 2007 it won the public prize for the best club in Baden Wurttemberg from the Pop Academy in Mannheim. In addition, it hosts more diverse events in a year than any other club, theater or cultural institution in the city. Entrance fees never rise above 5 Euro and most events cost a mere 2,50; a small price to pay in comparison to the average entrance fees found around the city ranging from 10 to 20 Euro.

On a more personal note, I am proud to reveal that my Husband & partner in crime, better known in these parts as 'Bolte', was one of the founding members of the Villa Nachttanz. (I met and fell in love with him there too!) He, among others is responsible for having taken what was once a broken down house, in dire need of renovation and turned it into a diamond in the rough offering some of the best shows in town; a welcome alternative to our sometimes commercially conservative city. These are people who believe in the constant regeneration of subculture, encourage a non-commercial spirit, and support its ability to affect positive change. Serving as a platform for Creatives alike, anyone has the opportuniy to approach the Villa with the possibility of organizing an event of their own making on the Villa's Euro. Any funds put towards the Villa by their loyal public go strait back into it. This is one place where you can go and say that you got exactly what you paid for.

Taking all this history into consideration I am devastated to announce that the Villa Nachttanz is in danger of being shut down by their landlords, The City of Heidelberg. They have threatened to cancel their rent contract and send 6,ooo official Villa Nachttanz members and subscribers packing without an alternative to speak of. Apparently, the politicians in our city have a knack for ignoring what benefits youth culture in favor of small change profits. In light of this, I urge you all, no matter where you are, to take less than a minute of your time, click on the link below and sign this PETITION! Just for inspiration, it was initiated just three days ago and there are already 3,ooo signatures. A thousand votes a day, just might make the Man go away! For all you non-german speakers out there, the Petition is in English.

Click here now! Save the Villa Nachttanz Petition

Rettet die Villa Nachttanz!

2008-12-14T11:28:00.017+01:00

Villa Nachttanz 2007

Petition zum Erhalt der Villa Nachttanz

Der Homo Villanachttanzis ist vom Aussterben bedroht, da der Mietvertrag für die Villa Nachttanz im März 2009 ausläuft und nicht verlängert werden soll. Leider gibt es in der Administration Heidelbergs immer noch einige Vertreter, die nicht begriffen haben, dass die Villa zu einer festen Institution in Heidelberg geworden ist. Es ist richtig, dass damals schon klar war, dass der Mietvertrag nicht über das Jahr 2009 verlängert werden soll. Es wurde der Villa jedoch versichert, einen entsprechenden Ersatz für diesen Zeitpunkt zu finden. Von Seiten der Stadt gab es diesbezüglich keine ernstzunehmenden Bemühungen. Insofern ist die Kündigung einseitig und hinfällig.

Zudem spricht die ehrenamtliche Arbeit der Villamitglieder und -förderer für sich: Mehrere Hundert Konzerte, weit über 500 nichtkommerzielle Partys, ca. 25 Ausstellungen, 6 Festivals mit jeweils mehr als 3000 Besuchern, Gewinn des Publikumpreises der Pop-Akademie für den besten Club Baden-Württembergs, Theatervorstellungen, Lesungen, ganz zu schweigen von dem soziokulturellen Zusammenschluss junger Menschen, der Jugendarbeit und der exzellenten Plattform für junge Kunst.

Lichtinstallation während des Festivillas 2007

Die Villa Nachttanz wurde vor 7 Jahren als Verein aktiön2001 e.V. gegründet, was nichts anderes heißt als: "Aktion für junge Kultur und Toleranz In der Öffentlichkeit Nächtens." - Es ging damals wie heute darum, Räume zur Verfügung zu stellen, damit die jungen (und damit meine ich auch die junggebliebenen) Heidelberger ihre Ideen ohne Bürokratie und hohe Kosten verwirklichen können. Es ist nicht das Ziel der Villa, verzweifelt an ihrem Ort festzuhalten. Wenn die Stadt einen entsprechenden Platz mit ähnlicher Kapazität anböte, wäre die Villa auch bereit umzuziehen. Die Villa aber einfach zu schließen, als ob sie das Bild der Stadt Heidelberg in den letzten Jahren nicht mitgeprägt hätte, ist mehr als ein Unding.

Deshalb hier der Aufruf, die Petition zum Erhalt der Villa Nachttanz zu unterschreiben, um der Administration zu zeigen, was die Villa den Anwohnern Heidelbergs bedeutet. Schließlich werden Bürgermeister und Stadträte doch gewählt, um das Interesse der Anwohner zu vertreten.

Bitte leitet den Link http://www.petitiononline.com/V2010/petition.html
an alle, die ihr kennt, weiter.

Unter http://www.weitertanzen.info gibt es weitere Informationen über den Status der Villa Nachttanz.

Seit dem 11.12.08 wurde diese Petition unterschrieben von:

Lars Tygesen at the Heidelberger Kunstverein

2008-12-12T18:39:00.006+01:00

Very rarely do I dream of buying a piece of art that is way out of my price range, but the work of Danish artist Lars Tygesen speaks to every fabric of me. I am in love with his palette, his obsession with all things Baroque, and the incredibly contemporary energy that he pours into his canvases. Tygesen's interiors are impressionist, figurative, classical & abstract all at once. Who knew the combination could be so sumptuous! His wide perspective and ability to combine such strong, pronounced detail with a lack thereof astounds me. What a pure aesthetic experience and oh so fulfilling it is!

If you are in the area, I strongly suggest you see the show. Tygeses' s first ever solo show at Galerie Mikael Andersen in Copenhagen sold out after a few days and he has created entirely new work for the Kunstverein in Heidelberg. I will certainly go back for another serving.

Untitled, 2006
Untitled 2008
Untitled, 2007 (Images courtesy of Mikael Andersen)

A Grand Opening with Madame Marshall

2008-12-10T21:25:00.011+01:00

What a fabulous night! I love it when Kate Marshall comes to town, although I am bias! Here above is a Lino-cut called 'Love' from Kate's Pressure show. This time around Mrs. Marshall enchanted us with a new body of work outlining the historical narrative of the ideal sexualized woman. If you would like to view the Linocuts, Dry Point prints and Etchings she has here on display through the 3rd of January, click here or feel free to pay us a visit if you are in the area. Here below is a little peak of our scandalous evening together. And no, we did not behave!

Kate & Kate

The English Gentleman Saul and his lovely First Lady Selene! They dressed beautifully for the occasion I must say. Saul is a performance artist from London running an initiative called The People Speak and Selene is currently studying Fine Art at the Academy in Karlsruhe. Specializing in Video 'for now', Selene has managed to generate quite a stir with her new video work this past year and in return has received a good amount of recognition. A couple to keep an eye on!

Our Lucky charm Amber, always with the pose!

This image most of you may recognize after Damian Hurst's "For the love of God'. After investing ten million pounds to produce the art work cast from an original 17th century skull, complete with original teeth, encrusted entirely in diamonds, Hurst and Jay Jopling decided to take it to auction and test the waters. The bid was up 40 million and the final purchase made by none other than yours truly, Hurst and his Galerist Jopling, again? Now 50 million in the hole, they have not yet succeeded in getting rid of the masterpiece! As one of Kate Marshall's additions to her up-comming book, entitled 'Lives of the Artists' (after Giorgio Vasari's legendary account of Renaissance artists) Marshall intends to paint for us, or Etch rather, the landscape of Contemporary art and the iconic images that it has given birth to.

What would a party be without Thea, one of the Original Memphis Bitches!

Here is the lovely Perle, and a friend of his, both in Style for our flamboyant event!

"You can keep your Hat (and Wellies) on" - Need I say more?

The gorgeous Kate Marshall. If you ever get a chance to chat with this woman, take it! She is truly riveting. xo

Za Germans.

The Californians.

Here was one of the highlights of the evening. I am absolutely sure that you could recognize these boots from a satellite. My first reaction was, mother fxxxing god all mighty, fabulous, I need, cant breath....'then' I began to convince myself that I would die if I didn't have them. I think that Kate found what woman consider to be a gold mine when she discovered these. Oh, and those are my pathetic little shoes to the right. I do love them though!

Common Decency

2008-12-09T19:46:00.004+01:00

I am loving these pillows from Common Decency over at Etsy. They have introduced a small but very strong first look at their vision. I can't wait to see what the future holds for this new venture. I'll have 5 of everything please!

Rob Ryan

2008-12-08T14:38:00.008+01:00

Ahhh, the poetry of Rob Ryan. I look forward to exhibiting this man's work someday. Despite the fact that Ryan's work has been saturating the market for a while now, it has not lost it's extraordinary charm. He has designed textiles for couture, book covers, plates for Paul Smith this season and has a very impressive list of clients. Adoring this man seems to run in the family! My Mother recently discovered his Etsy shop and ordered a bunch of his Christmas cards. I would love to give one of these prints to my Husband for Christmas. These sentiments are priceless, a bit like Arts & Crafts movement meets Victorian charm.

For the love of Orla Kiely

2008-12-05T15:43:00.004+01:00

I have always wanted to sell Orla Kiely in our space, but it just never panned out. For one, her clothing line is very pricey, so I am contented to receive the Lookbook every season in the mail (which is like an artwork in itself). This year I am far more fascinated by Orla's home line than anything else. If you ever get a chance to visit her store in London you would die and die again! By the way, some one please buy me this bedding, I just can't take it any more!! Pretty, pretty, pretty - xo

Keep Calm Returns

2008-12-05T14:43:00.004+01:00

We are delighted to present another installment of Lucas and Haley's prints from Keep Calm. This British duo produces the wittiest screen prints of either their own making or those of their many partners in crime! This image above entitled 'I am the State' is one of 40 designs they were commissioned to reproduce for the Hayward Gallery in London to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the May 1968 riots in Paris. In addition to being uber-cool, Keep Calm has managed to set a real standard for screen printing by combining quality, style, and timeless motifs. Here are just a few new additions you can pick up at the Pig.

The ephemeral beauty of Ibride

2008-11-21T18:42:00.012+01:00

Plateau Cornelius
Plateau Nibou

I can't wait for the new Ibride items to arrive in our shop. First of all, this small Parisian company has some of the best branding design around. Just check out their website and you will be immediately drawn into their world. This year they have introduced a number of new trays, a ming vase and furniture pieces which make 'the most' incredible impact. The Diva Console seen below is becoming fast one of our most popular sellers. All can say is oh la la!

Diva Console
Plateaux Ambroise

Portrait of the Artist as an Artist

2008-11-15T15:41:00.004+01:00

We are so excited to have the opportunity to present new work from Kate Marshall for the second time. While the British born artist has kept very busy over the last few years building her dynasty of nouveaux feminine pop, we have been over here, hanging on every new piece, and drooling. She has recently acquired a printing press to award herself for the hard work it has taken becoming somewhat of a master in Etching, Lino Printing and Dry Point. Those pieces which have stemmed from the actual printing press of Kate Marshall will be on view for your eyes only starting the 27th of November. If you can get the night off, come by our opening reception starting at 7pm. There is always a spectacular atmosphere when Kate's work is in town. Oh, and lots of bubbly!

John Murphy Collages

2008-11-15T15:29:00.003+01:00

I guess the cat is finally out of the bag! John had informed me that he was working on a new series of collages when we last spoke, so I was delighted to see them popping up on my favorite blogs. Here is a little sneak peak of the collection I found via Design Sponge.

Beyond Memory

2008-11-13T15:40:00.004+01:00

This is one of my favorite pieces in our current show from Irakli Bugianishvili. We have decided to extend Beyond Memory until the 25th for visitors who can't make it by the 19th, and so we can host a closing party!

The best way to hail a cab in Winter!

2008-11-13T12:03:00.007+01:00

I am so loving these! Those of you who know me will probably get a good laugh out of this. These mittens among other playful designs can be found at Kate Spade - all handcrafted by woman in Bosnia and Herzegovina. When you buy a pair, you are directly supporting a woman as she rebuilds her life.

Oh Camilla!

2008-11-11T18:08:00.009+01:00

Madame Ochre - Screenprint

Mr. Black - Screenprint

When it comes to Camilla Engman, I am always smitten. As one of the most talented illustrators in the world, you would probably think that she was too busy to fulfill her potential in every aspect, but you would be sadly mistaken. This year alone she has collaborated with her good friend Karin Eriksson on a collection of hand thrown stoneware, designed a small product line for Third Drawer Down, become a part of the Converse dynasty, exhibited worldwide 'as usual', and!, has most recently acquired an amazing studio space with her friend Elisabeth Dunker where they have begun a new venture called Studio Violet. Studio Violet's new collection offers the most adorable postcards, journals and prints. Here are a few prints of Camilla's that I hope to have for sale in the Gallery soon & her new 2009 calendar, which I ordered today.

YES WE CAN!

2008-11-06T12:42:00.005+01:00

Never in my life have I felt such a sense of pride for my homeland. I applaud all of you who went and made the right choice. Feeling empowered as an American is what it is all about, I now truly believe that we can make a difference.

Beyond Memory

2008-10-16T15:42:00.007+02:00

We are proud to present new work from Irakli Bugianishvili opening this Saturday at 5pm. The artist, originally from Georgia recently completed a residency in Zagreb, Croatia where he created the series entitled 'Abandoned'. In this exhibition the artist unveils a study of forsaken homes set in deserted landscapes in Croatia where many parts of the country are still left without inhabitants as a result of the 'Homeand' war of the 90's.

The Abandoned cycle precedes the recent Russian invasion of Georgia where the artists family home was bombed. Thereafter, and unable to return home, Bugianishvili began another short series of works entitled 'Tree of Life' which portray ironically aesthetic images of the atomic bomb setting off into the atmosphere. Reflecting on the current situation in his homeland, Irakli has attempted to initiate a dialog between similar events and in doing so seeks to reveal a collective consciousness with regards to the aftermath of great destruction. The face of Bugianishvili's work deals with the idea of memory and how it is altered by the ever changing physicality of our past, present and future.

Bolte's weekly music recommendation

2008-10-16T14:49:00.007+02:00

This time i'd like to show you my cute fiend sweet princess by Kimya Dawson.

Released: August 3, 2004
Label: Important Records

If you want to listen to it, check like almost always last.fm.

New Arrivals!

2008-10-09T13:15:00.003+02:00

John Murphy has finally arrived in Heidelberg! His images are so gorgeous in person and make (if you can believe it) an even stronger impact in person. I have decided to redesign the entire space in order to accommodate these works.

Peter Doig - The reluctant Master

2008-10-01T16:06:00.005+02:00

One of the most recent spectacles of the seemingly boundless escalation of art market prices, Peter Doig is one artist who is not impressed by this phenomena but rather brought to the point of nausea. After one of his paintings sold for the highest of any living artist in history (beating Jeff Koons) at Southeby's for 5.7 million pounds, one can imagine that painting has taken on a whole new meaning for this anti-hero. For all of you who are not yet wild with anticipation, he is coming to the Schirn Kunsthalle in Frankfurt on the 9th of October. I suppose everyone has to judge for themselves whether or not his works warrant such high prices, although I doubt Peter himself would argue in favor. Here's an idea! Next time someone lays down 5 million pounds at Southeby's, they should throw in the rescue of an African country on the house!

Coming Soon....

2008-10-01T11:12:00.006+02:00

The Bourgeois Pig will be 'tickled pink' to introduce John Murphy to Heidelberg in a few weeks. Although, I am hoping that his pieces arrive sooner than that! I contacted John after seeing his work splashed a cross the pages of my favorite blogs and just fell in love. We spoke on the phone at length about the art world, which he has been extensively linked to for some time. John worked as a curator & a gallery director for years until he decided to give it all up for his own practices. He prepares his photographs in his studio as you would a stage setting, which produce these incredibly ephemeral, yet artificial images. His frames are also fantastically opulent, and come in a number of bold colors. I will post again as soon as they arrive!

Fest'n in the Rain!

2008-09-17T18:42:00.002+02:00

We begin our recap with the Celebrity Martini Bar Maid! Amber was kind enough to serve Champagne and Pink Martinis at the Ingrim Street Festival on Saturday. A typical weekend in Heidelberg - First barricade the street, lay the lawn, gather your army, pump up the volume and prepare for anarchy.

Apparently, all the preparation in the world can't control the weather. Our 'sunny' fest commenced with rain. Things looked rather grim until it cleared up and we were able to get on with it. In the meantime we moved a little jam session into the Gallery to accompany Lilly Piri's opening.

What would a Street Festival be without an Art opening! We are proud to present Lilly's most recent work 'Wunderkammer' (The Chamber of Miracles). The show was very well received, and we thank all who attended & purchased!

Who's Pooh?

2008-09-16T22:56:00.007+02:00

Claudi, Claudi, Claudi!

Our MVP award goes to.......? Miss Ritter, the owner of Orange (our second home).

Orange was the heart of our Festival, probably because they had the BEER! Every time a tourist asks me where they can find a 'non-touristy' cafe, I send them here. There is nothing like it in Heidelberg. In fact, it is almost impossible to get away from Tourism in the old city. Orange is a haven for people looking for authenticity, good music & a place to smoke after 10!

Here's the other half of Orange (Usama) with his beautiful niece. Usama made a gorgeous Pumpkin soup for the Fest, for those who did not prefer to start drinking at noon!

Here's our very own 'Heidelberg' photographer Barbara Hohenadl. She has published two fantastic books of portraits and landscapes of our lovely city, and was kind enough to open her studio for viewing during the Festival. She also worked her butt off organizing for the day.

This is Sabine Speckamp's Antiquariat Goethe & Co. Sabine hosted a reading in her shop which has gotten wild reviews! Her space is just beautiful, exactly what you would call the epitome of European charm. In addition to her collection of books available in international languages, she also has a selection of antiques. My favorites at the moment are old cake molds, amazing vintage cameras and anatomy posters from the 40's and 50's.

This shop wins the award for window decor. Rosemarie of Antiquariat Stange has one of the most Romantic locations on the Ingrimstrasse. Many of the unusual objects on offer here include; glasses from the 20's and 30's (my Favs), drawings, paitings, photography, beautiful books and furniture to die for. A perfect escape for a winters day.

Here is the darling couple! After long hours of pre-exhibition hell, Lilly appeared in perfect form ready to enjoy her solo show. WoooHooo! And a beautiful job she did! Stay tuned for the up close and personal recap of Wunderkammer.

Wunderkammer

2008-09-11T18:34:00.004+02:00

Ausstellungseröffnung am Samstag, den 13.09.2008 ab 11 Uhr mit Werken von Lilly Piri im Rahmen des Ingrimstrassenfests.

Wir freuen uns auf Euch!

Ingrimstrassenfest

2008-09-08T18:02:00.007+02:00

Am Samstag, den 13.09.2008, von 11-22 Uhr findet das Ingrimstrassenfest statt.

Die Anwohner, Nachbarn und Geschäfte freuen sich auf Euren Besuch!

Introducing ourselves

2008-08-21T14:25:00.006+02:00

That's us!
to be continued...