Humans have held ownership over this domain for millennia but now a new entity is on the rise in our beloved industry, artificial intelligence (AI). The concept of artificial intelligence is a centuries old concept dating back to the Greeks with their fantastical ideas of artificial constructs. However, in 2024 AI is all too real and is making waves in the art industry as hopeful visions of the past have suddenly become a terrifying reality.

Visual artist and metal musician Farzad Golpayegani, best known for his epic guitar playing skills and works of surrealism, is unafraid to tackle the controversial topic of AI and how it could, should and does interact with the art world. In an interview with him, he shares his thoughts on the topic as a creative in the field.

Many argue there’s no place for AI within art. Using the words AI and art in the same sentence concocts images of evil machines gobbling up stolen artwork. Farzad Golpayegani however, doesn’t see AI as a strictly black or white. Instead it is more of a grey area arguing that “like many inventions, a new discovery can have drawbacks initially.

Take Marie Curie’s discovery of radium, for example. Initially celebrated for its glowing green colour, radium-based jewellry became popular, unaware of its cancer-causing properties. Before its life-saving potential was realized, radium proved deadly, even claiming Curie’s life. Similarly, AI undergoes a trial-and-error process. Despite impressive advancements, misuse is prevalent. This learning curve is necessary to harness its potential effectively.” So, while the evil machines play their sinister roles in the AI discourse, the topic is more nuanced and is a place for reflection and potentially even innovation.

I don’t think AI will end mankind’s creative journey but rather function as an art expert. Our best approach is to continue creating our best, regardless of AI competition.

When considering the current climate of the art world, Farzad insists that AI “should be kept entirely separate from current art forms.” Currently, many AI generators are trained using stolen work from artists who often have no knowledge their work is being used in such a way. “Using someone’s work and art without consent is absolutely unacceptable; nobody wants their work or identity stolen” states Farzad. “In general, I don’t oppose AI, but I firmly disagree with claiming AI-generated work as one’s own creation.

For instance, incorporating AI-generated illustrations into graphic design is logical, but presenting them as standalone artwork isn’t.” As a graphic designer and art director, Farzad has created work based on instructions provided by clients and supervisors without drawing from his own artistic styles and preferences. “Claiming AI-generated art as personal creation is akin to clients or supervisors asserting authorship over work I produced for them. It doesn’t align logically, and I see no distinction.”

Like many, Farzad has been personally affected by AI. The website Have I Been Trained? by art collective Spawning detects whether artwork has been used to train various AI generators. This website shows his work has been used to train AI without his knowledge or consent. When asking whether he was aware of this he replied, “I’m not surprised. To be honest, I might be upset if I learned that I was ignored by AI!” “I don’t worry if my work is analysed by AI, actually. My only concern is the abuse of that information. This is an important aspect of art in the future, and I want to be a part of it, without my work being misrepresented.”

Farzad has been on the receiving end of being deceived by AI. “I consider myself having a good eye spotting Al art.” His good eye was called into question upon discovering an artist with incredible style and talent.

“I began following him on social media and noticed he posted too frequently, considering the complicity and detail of his artworks. Upon further investigation, I discovered he was using AI to generate pieces in his style, resulting in even more refined works. He then transfers these digital creations onto canvas and painted them in oils. It seemed he had replaced the roles between a digital artist and a printer! As someone who creates digital art and prints them on canvas, I found this reversal disappointing. It’s an example of a situation that makes you question everything!”

This discovery led to a major shift in his opinion of the artist as he describes “I stopped following him, and his work lost its value in my eyes entirely. I have always opposed the artistic value of duplicating a photograph onto canvas or paper, just painting or drawing an existing image using oil, acrylic, etc. It is definitely a skill set, but it is not artistic and creative, no matter how realistic it may look. Painting an image that is already generated by AI follows the same rule in my mind. To remain in control and progress, an artist shouldn’t lower his or her value to that level.”

Claiming AI-generated art as personal creation is akin to clients or supervisors asserting authorship over work I produced for them. It doesn’t align logically, and I see no distinction.

However, AI isn’t all doom and gloom from Farzad’s perspective. His job as an art director has allowed him access to AI as a supportive tool using it in processes such as upscaling images and editing to enable a streamlined workflow. The ideology of using AI as a supportive tool, similarly to how one uses a paint brush, adds an interesting perspective on the topic for future reference.

From his perspective, each advancement in technological improvement from artists, no matter how big or small, have helped us shape art history and our current present. The idea of blocking technological advancements isn’t smart progress. “Whether we like it or not, this is the future of the art world and we should find innovative ways to be a part of it rather than isolating ourselves. The problem isn’t AI accessing the human art history database; what’s worrying is the potential abuse of its achievements, mostly caused by humans.”

Of course, for AI to work in this capacity, “clear and strict regulations are surely necessary.” It could only really work on a case by case basis in which transparency and honesty would be key components. For example, if a photographer were to use AI tools to remove/edit unwanted elements in a photograph, would that be alright? Well, it’s complicated. “It’s unacceptable for photographers to remove objects from their photos if they submit them to competitions or publish them as news journalists.

However, they can manipulate images using AI within its category.” Another example could be using AI generators with ethically sourced and artist approved images which has its own nuanced issues as he explains “the person using AI isn’t the artist anymore and shouldn’t claim the rights to the generated image. Simply put, the AI image prompter isn’t an artist but more of a client, and the AI generator is the intelligence behind the creation. This distinction should be made clear when sharing the image publicly.

In summary, I don’t see any issue with the AI generator when using licensed images, but the problem arises when roles and guidelines aren’t understood. Misusing this tool can be disastrous, regardless of whether the source is licensed or not.”

Farzad also suggests AI as a potential promotional tool for artists. Social media algorithms are often unforgiving and artists can get lost within a sea of content. “Creating beautiful, innovative, and meaningful art is one thing, and being able to promote it and have it seen is another” he explains. “One might excel at one aspect and struggle with the other.

We often encounter artists when they gain exposure, not necessarily when they achieve a high level of skill or creativity. Many factors influence the attention an artist receives, unrelated to the art itself. This process could be improved and perhaps balanced with the help of AI technology, ensuring artists are noticed not just because they garner more likes on social media or work with a specific representative. I would appreciate seeing more of that.”

While hopes of a fruitful future is always a beneficial mindset to have, it is how we proceed from here that will truly make or break the industry when regarding the integration of AI technology. For Farzad, education and new regulations are our most vital resources for tackling the issues and ethics of AI. “Similar to the Hollywood writers’ strike, new standards may need to be established to address issues like art theft and AI participation” especially with art contests and exhibitions.

“While we may not be able to stop its advancement entirely, we can inform ourselves and others about its implications. Rather than banning its usage all together, understanding and embracing its potential can lead to better outcomes. Both artists and audiences should question the authenticity of AI-generated artwork and develop a deeper appreciation for genuine creativity. This way, AI art can be evaluated on its own merits within the artistic landscape.”

The problem isn’t AI accessing the human art history database; what’s worrying is the potential abuse of its achievements, mostly caused by humans. Clear and strict regulations are surely necessary.

When concluding this discussion with Farzad, I brought up the fact that many of us feel despondent when concerning the subject of AI. Dread fills our minds as we question everything that we hold dear in art. Should we just give up? Will this thing take out jobs? What do we do?! But for Farzad, things aren’t so bleak choosing to believe that centuries long tradition of humans making and sharing their art isn’t going to die out any time soon.

We should never give up on pursuing art and should instead “remain active and keep creating our best no matter what. There was a time in art history when the camera and photography had a similar impact on the art scene. Instead of spending hours, days, or months preserving a moment by painting it, it became a matter of seconds to do so.

Of course, it was a difficult experience for those who made a living by painting portraits, but can you imagine the art world without photography, cinematography, and the rest of the progress? We should remain positive and be flexible and creative in order to let the new art forms develop and bloom. It won’t be a smooth process, but it will definitely be worth it. This opens doors in a way we have never experienced in our lifetimes.”

Farzad Golpayegani Social Media Accounts

Website | Instagram | X | Facebook | Spotify

The post Farzad Golpayegani on the Ethics and Impact of AI appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

Farzad Golpayegani was born in Tehran, Iran and now currently resides in the USA. As the son of graphic designer and painter Behzad Golpayegani, Farzad is following in his father’s footsteps as a visual artist who revels in the styles of surrealism and expressionism. During his high school years Farzad began learning graphic design and painting and graduated with a degree in Graphic Design. While his late father inspired his painterly side, his love of music came from his older brother who introduced him to rock and metal music. In 1994, Farzad bought his first guitar with the goal of taking music more seriously.

Farzad works in both fields of music and art and has composed music for advertisements, animation, short films and video games. His personal art projects combine his skills as a musician and painter to create a unique visual and listening experience. His musical style mixes progressive metal with eastern, Persian and classical music using his 7-string electric guitar and acoustic guitar played in eastern tuning. Farzad currently has nine albums all of which he has been the driving force in as he composes, plays, records, mixes and masters his songs and creates the album covers which accompany the records. He performs much of his music live as both solo performances and with his band “Farzad G Band”.

I hope that my work serves as an inspiration. Witnessing the enhancement of different art forms is truly exciting.

Interview with Farzad Golpayegani

In your own words, how would you describe the art that you make?

My art is primarily rooted in surrealism, yet I’ve always explored my unique approach within this style. I reshape human anatomy, portraits, objects, and nature in my art to convey my messages. Additionally, I incorporate Middle Eastern forms and elements into my compositions, adding a personal touch to my work. Regarding subject matter, I go very deep into emotions, symbolism, and feelings, while in terms of aesthetics and technique, I tend to maintain a realistic appearance.

Who are some of your biggest influences both as a musician and a visual artist?

As a musician, my influences have been very diverse. That is probably how I got into combining different styles into fusion and progressive rock and metal. I initially got into playing music through exposure to hard rock, and metal, but I always have been fascinated by anything that moves me, like classical, jazz, fusion, and folklore.

As a visual artist, I admire Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli, alongside more contemporary artists such as Bacon, Jacometti, Picasso, Pollock, Giger, and Beksinski.

Your older brother helped spark your love for music, what kind of music were you first introduced to through his influence?

Initially, I was introduced to the world of hard rock, which gradually led me into heavier metal genres. My early exposure to this music at young age played a significant role in shaping my musical journey. By the time I started playing the guitar at the age of fifteen, I had already immersed myself in rock music for several years, which greatly expedited my learning process and eventually enabled me to start teaching guitar after just one year of playing.

Has your father’s work inspired and influenced you as an artist?

Certainly. While I never had the opportunity to learn directly from my father due to his hospitalization when I was only two years old and his passing when I was seven, growing up in an environment with his artworks and creations in every corner greatly contributed to shaping my artistic vision.

Do you approach working on a new visual piece the same as you would approach a new song or album? Or is it a different process entirely?

There are similarities between the two creative processes. Both demand extensive study, practice, experimentation, and moments of inspiration. I either experiment with guitar riffs and jams or sketch and conceptualize ideas in my sketchbook when I’m in the early stages of creating music or visual artwork. These initial phases are crucial for finding the direction I want to take and developing my ideas into finished pieces, whether they be musical compositions or visual artworks.

Your paintings have an alien-like, ethereal quality to them, what are your thoughts on this interpretation?

You pointed that out accurately. While it is not my goal to give my work with an alien-like appearance, my approach involves simplifying figures and utilizing human body proportions to convey concepts and emotions. I generally leave the interpretation of my work to the audience, but personally, I don’t try to create artwork that appears merely scary or unsettling. I aim to convey my message through the figures I create, allowing them to differ from standard appearances and proportions. In other words, my priority is the depth of my artwork rather than its surface aesthetics.

As someone who loves both visual art and music, I feel like we don’t see many artists who intertwine these two artforms together even though they go hand in hand. For example, album artwork is often made by someone separate from the musicians who make the music. Do you hope your work will encourage others to experiment more with visual art, music, and other art forms?

I really do. I hope that my work serves as an inspiration. Witnessing the enhancement of different art forms is truly exciting. While there are animators and video artists who have explored similar ideas, there are countless possibilities and avenues to explore. It’s worth noting that established actors performing music on large stages or talented musicians exhibiting amateur paintings in prestigious art galleries, while admirable, do not align with my vision. I hope to see younger generations and emerging artists naturally explore this interdisciplinary path and watch it flourish organically.

While I was not optimistic about witnessing major change [in Iran for] the foreseeable future, the Iranian uprising of the previous year marked a significant turning point. The younger generation fought vigorously for their rights in unprecedented ways, and now, amid all the adversity faced by Iran, there is newfound hope that has been absent for decades. I am optimistic that this hope will eventually translate into tangible change.

What kind of music do you like to play whilst working on your art? Do you play your own music or do you listen to other artists?

I often listen to others while working on my art. However, it depends on the project at hand. For my recent painting collections, I created paintings for each track on my latest music albums, with each artwork sharing a title with its corresponding song. During the conceptualization phase of these paintings, I listen to the specific song associated with the artwork to help me generate ideas. Once I’ve determined my creative direction and I am in the execution phase, I may also listen to music by other artists.

Your birth place isn’t accepting of the music you make, do you think we’ll see changes/progress for this any time soon?

Yes, unfortunately, the regime in my birthplace, Iran, has not been welcoming to the type of music I create. This was a primary reason for my relocation many years ago. While I was not optimistic about witnessing major change in the foreseeable future, the Iranian uprising of the previous year marked a significant turning point. The younger generation fought vigorously for their rights in unprecedented ways, and now, amid all the adversity faced by Iran, there is newfound hope that has been absent for decades. I am optimistic that this hope will eventually translate into tangible change.

What has been the most important lesson you have learned as a musician and visual artist?

The most crucial lesson I’ve learned is not to let the amount of recognition, whether positive or negative, define the value of my work. Feedback is invaluable, but even in situations where my work may not receive the exposure I believe it deserves, I remain passionate about what I do. I find happiness in doing work I love and finishing it, rather than looking for approval from others.

Who have you been listening to lately? Any good music recommendations for us to check out?

Apart from my usual list of progressive, technical, and death metal music, I have been listening to classical music lately. Composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninoff to name a few. It has helped me to stay focus while working on the artwork I’m working on currently.

We always love to hear about where artists make their magic! Can you tell our readers a bit about your art and music studio spaces?

My home studio, which I’ve designated in my bedroom, is of average size but highly efficient. I tend to maintain a minimalist approach, particularly since my music recording and post-production processes are primarily digital, skipping the need for large guitar amps. Additionally, I have been working in the digital format for my paintings for the past eight years, as a result these methods help me to get the best of my space, and not require a lot of equipment.

What’s next for you? Any exciting projects that you can tell our readers about?

I am currently creating a painting collection inspired by my latest music album, titled ‘Nine’. This collection represents some of the finest digital work I have produced thus far. Simultaneously, I am dedicating time to rehearsals for my next musical release. I’m juggling these projects while working my full-time job, so things might take a bit of time, but I’m steadily moving forward.

Farzad Golpayegani Social Media Accounts

Website | Instagram | X | Facebook | Spotify

The post Farzad Golpayegani: The Space Between Music and Art appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

Since many of us are still in lockdown, or slowly coming out, and others have transitioned to working from home permanently, creating a safe and inspiring space for ourselves, that expresses who we are, what we love, and what is important to us has become a priority. Hence, I thought I would share my ‘Lust Haves’ list with you each month. A list of 10 wonderful things I have found on Instagram, which I would personally love to own! As you know the Beautiful Bizarre Magazine brand encompasses: Art, Culture, Couture. So these lists will of course include visual art, some of which I have recently added to my collection, and some which I would love to acquire, plus fashion, jewellery, ceramics, home wares, garden and pet related goodies, music, books and whatever else is on my ‘Lust Haves’ list at the time. All the goodies that feed the mind, body and soul.

I hope you find some inspiration from my list to update your look, feed your soul, and create your own sanctuary. One which expresses your unique individual style, brings you comfort, and joy, and inspires you each day. I personally advocate for shopping local where possible both for environmental reasons, and, of course, to support local makers and brands. However, my lists will include both Australian and international artists and brands to cater to our special international community.

I will be collecting all my ‘Lust Have’ ideas via my personal Instagram account @danijelakrhapurssey, so please join me there, and feel free to suggest some amazing products via DM to my Instagram account.

Exciting! Take a peek at my November 2021 Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ below. You can check out my previous Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ lists here for even more inspiration.

Much love xo

Danijela Krha Purssey // Editor-in-Chief, Beautiful Bizarre Magazine

November 2021 // Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves

I adore Nicolette Johnson‘s handmade ceramic vessels! The curves and swerves are so feminine and right on point. Nicolette is an Australian ceramicists who exhibits her work regularly – I really need to get on a mailing list or two so I can get one of these enchanting creations.

I can’t go past velvet for its depth of colour and its wonderful textural qualities. But how to choose a colour? Each of the above Canvas + Sasson bed covers is divine, I can see myself snuggling on the lounge wrapped in one of these beauties!

Canvas + Sasson is an Australian wholesaler who curates gorgeous collections of both furniture and home wares for the retail market.

Troy Emery is an Australian sculptor who creates these magical creatures made of colourful thread. I have wanted one of these puppies since I first saw his tactile, playful work in person at the Sydney Contemporary art fair some time ago. A definite wish list item for me!

 “small sweet pink lump”, polyester, polyurethane, pins, adhesive, 40 x 44 x 39 cm.

A pair of these enchanting handmade mules have been on my wish list for some time! Joanne Fleming sources exquisite antique fabrics from Europe and beyond to create her couture footwear – each an artwork in itself, and a future heirloom.

Pavilion Parade is a cherished project of UK designer Joanne Fleming, working in close collaboration with South African shoe designer Caryn Wilensky to create a custom collection of exquisite artworks for the feet, available exclusively via the Pavilion Parade online store and the Joanne Fleming Design showroom in Brighton. Each pair of Loungers (the backless mule style) and Promenaders (the high back style) from the Signature Collection is a real labour of love and as a deliberate consequence of the use of antique textiles no two pairs are ever identical.

I am obsessed with House of Hackney‘s romantic maximalist wallpaper! Particularly the blush ‘Artemis’ – I can envisage it covering the walls of my office, cocooning me in floral femininity. I have a large swatch that I ordered from London, to see if it would suit the 100+ year old original wooden doors and skirting boards in my home, and yep – its perfection! This wallpaper is on my MUST have list! They also have curtains, cushions, rugs, furniture, bedding and lots more in their exquisite patterned designs.

Founded by husband and wife team Frieda Gormley and Javvy M Royle, House of Hackney is a luxury British interiors, fashion and lifestyle brand that reworks tradition for a new generation, with stores in London and New York.

Made of Australia create beautiful unique tableware for individuals, and the Australian restaurant industry, and you can see why! They are both evocative of the earth and the flame, and are visually beautiful. They would make a gorgeous serving plate, or even better a full set of dinnerware. Yes please!

Made of Australia is a handmade ceramics business conceived by artist & designer Anna-Marie Wallace. Everything from the Australian clays to the foraged indigenous flora used in the Saggar firing of their ceramic art is derived directly from the unique Australian landscape. This means that each and every piece they make is not only made in Australia, but Made of Australia.

The Little Lyndoch Flower Farm is based in the Barossa Valley in South Australia and sells tubers, seeds & beautiful bouquets, including these gorgeous peachy pink ranunculus. I’m already on their mailing list hoping to get my hands on these beauties for the next bulb planting season! You really can’t go past these easy to grow long flowering Spring bulbs.

Vipoo is a Thai-born Australian sculptor who creates super fun, whimsical little ceramic sculptures that truly capture my heart and bring a huge smile to my face every time I see them! I would love to add one of his wonderful creations to my growing sculpture collection.

His work is a playful blend of European historical figurines and Asian decorative art practices with a healthy dose of contemporary culture, often exploring cross-cultural and migration experiences. If you dont yet know his work I highly recommend you check him out!

If you have read my previous Lust Have’s blogs you will know that my husband and I recently bought our forever home in regional NSW, Australia. As you can imagine, with a new home often comes new furniture for the different and new spaces.

We recently ordered this wonderful outdoor lounge from Australian retailer Early Settler, for our back porch. I can’t wait till it arrives!

Speaking of new outdoor lounges, how fabulous would these beautiful hand woven cushions be on that lounge! Yes please I’ll take three.

Pampa is an Australian based company that is rediscovering threatened cultures and reviving lost traditions. They support skilled artisans in remote Argentina and beyond to produce home wares and accessories that are woven works of art. Pampa connects talented weavers with the global community.

I hope you enjoyed this little journey into my personal aesthetic. Stay tuned, my next Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ list will be published in December.

xox

The post Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

Since many of us are still in lockdown due to COVID, and others have transitioned to working from home permanently, creating a safe and inspiring space for ourselves, that expresses who we are, what we love, and what is important to us has become a priority. Hence, I thought I would take the initiative and share my ‘Lust Haves’ list with you each month. A list of 10 wonderful things I have found on the internet and Instagram, which I would personally love to own! As you know the Beautiful Bizarre Magazine brand encompasses: Art, Culture, Couture. So these lists will of course include visual art, some of which I have recently added to my collection, and some which I would love to acquire, plus fashion, jewellery, ceramics, home wares, garden and pet related goodies, music, books and whatever else is on my ‘Lust Haves’ list at the time. All the goodies that feed the mind, body and soul.

I hope you find some inspiration from my list to update your look, feed your soul, and create your own sanctuary. One which expresses your unique individual style, brings you comfort, and joy, and inspires you each day. I personally advocate for shopping local where possible both for environmental reasons, and of course to support local makers and brands. However my lists will include both Australian and international artists ad brands to cater to our special international community.

I will be collecting all my ‘Lust Have’ ideas via my personal Instagram account @danijelakrhapurssey, so please join me there, and feel free to suggest some amazing products via DM to my Instagram account.

Exciting! Take a peek at my October 2021 Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ below. You can check out my previous Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ lists here for even more inspiration.

Much love xo

Danijela Krha Purssey // Editor-in-Chief, Beautiful Bizarre Magazine

October 2021 // Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves

I love The Vampires Wife for SO many reasons! The name of course (I wanted to grow up to be a Vampire – yes its a thing!), the fact that the brand was founded by Susie Cave, and I adore the style and cut of the dresses – timeless, romantic and a little goth.

I love this green dress, but I also love all of her floral designs – one of these beauties is definitely on my ultimate wish list! I have two exhibition openings, one here in Australia and one in San Francisco next year [I curate all the Beautiful Bizarre Magazine exhibitions, and attend the opening receptions (COVID permitting)] – I think I need one of The Vampires Wife dresses for one of these prestigious events – don’t you?

Spring is here and its a wonderful time to be in the garden! Here in regional Northern NSW of Australia the nights are still cold enough for the fire, but most of the days are filled with glorious sunshine. We have very cold winters here, with hard frosts which means much of the garden is dormant in winter – so spring is a celebration of new growth, renewed life and colour. The bulbs are the first to welcome spring and what a joy they are. I was rewarded by my Autumn plantings of tulips, ranunculus, hyacinth, and daffodils which have put on such a beautiful display. I cant wait to add to it next year! I am already plotting and planning.

Of course my garden would not be complete without Dahlias! These gorgeous summer flowering bulbs are something I crave. Sadly, I was too late getting onto the dahlia sales and missed out this year – they are in such high demand. We have a number of excellent growers here in Australia including Florelie dahlia breeders, whose range is just incredible. Wish me luck next year!

Ah the colour, pattern, texture, and richness of the Moroccan Textile Co’s rugs are divine! I have been eying them off for a while now – this runner would be perfect in my long hallway against the original 1800’s wooden floors.

The Moroccan Textile Co is a local Australian business who source authentic rugs and textiles from Morocco and West Africa.

I am very lucky to occasionally get some wonderful and precious gifts from the artists I work with in my role for Beautiful Bizarre Magazine! Artist Jason Mowry recently sent me a gorgeous print of this painting “The nudge, the touch, and the whisper”. I am so grateful to Jason for thinking of me!

Happily many artists have sent me treasures over the last 8 years. I am thrilled to say that I am now finally in a position to get many of these beautiful prints and originals framed and hung in my forever home – I am making my home a monument to the visual arts and the artists inside its walls! I feel so honoured to be able to see a little glimpse of their creative soul as I move around my home every day. I appreciate these random acts of kindness so very very much! The arts community is truly one of a kind, and I feel so privileged to be part of it.

I have mentioned my obsession with ceramics! I want all the things!! Kerryn Levy’s unique squiggly candlesticks are high up on my list. Beautiful, unique and functional – what more could you want?

Kerryn is an Australian ceramicist who hand builds all of her beautiful creations.

With Spring here it is time to start thinking about how I could revamp my back porch in preparation for those lazy summer days, and these gorgeous Pretzel cane chairs by Naturally Cane would be perfect! I can see myself happily sitting in one of these curved beauties with a glass of bubbles and a good book.

Naturally Cane is an Australian brand that creates beautiful cane furniture including bedheads, cabinets, chairs, tables, lounges and daybeds, and lots more!

Dried flowers are my new thing, and I can’t seem to go past Australian brand everbloome. They have so many stunning posies and individual blooms in their range. Each posy is SO gorgeous that it is super hard to choose just one! Everything from gorgeous brights, to soft pastels, to earth toned arrangements.

I purchased a small posy a few months ago, and I’m in love with it! So now I am dreaming over a larger arrangement, and these earth tones are speaking to my country girl soul.

I dont have human children, but I am a proud dog mum. Monty my 11 year old Golden Retriever is my fur baby, and my soul dog. He has the most beautiful, gentle, sweet, loving nature – I could not imagine life without him! One of these days I would love to have a portrait of him done to add to my art collection.

Artist Steven Kenny, Winner of the 2019 Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize, Traditional Art Award would be my go to artist for such a special commission. How beautiful is the above portrait of a different Golden – I think my boy also deserves a crown!

I adore the soft, natural feel of linen. Both in my bedding and throws for my lounge room and office. These gorgeous Freya throws from CULTIVER are divine! The nights are still cold here, so having a beautiful throw to snuggle into in the evenings when the sun begins to set would be heavenly.

I recently discovered the American indie folk band, Lord Huron. How amazing is Spotify’s artist RADIO function? Ive found lots of new artists via this function. I just go to one of my favourite musicians Spotify page, and scroll down the their RADIO section, and BAM, it creates a playlist with a similar vibe/feel to my favourite artist.

Lord Huron is one such amazing discovery – Ben Schneider’s vocals give me chills, and the cinematic evocative nature of the music feeds my soul. The above is a little snippet of a live performance of one of their songs, “The Night We Met“. You can listen to the full track here on YouTube.

The Night We Met

I am not the only traveler
Who has not repaid his debt
I’ve been searching for a trail to follow again
Take me back to the night we met

And then I can tell myself
What the hell I’m supposed to do
And then I can tell myself
Not to ride along with you

I had all and then most of you
Some and now none of you
Take me back to the night we met
I don’t know what I’m supposed to do
Haunted by the ghost of you
Oh, take me back to the night we met

When the night was full of terrors
And your eyes were filled with tears
When you had not touched me yet
Oh, take me back to the night we met

I had all and then most of you
Some and now none of you
Take me back to the night we met
I don’t know what I’m supposed to do
Haunted by the ghost of you
Take me back to the night we met

I hope you enjoyed this little journey into my personal aesthetic. Stay tuned, my next Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ list will be published in November. xox

The post Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

Since many of us are still in lockdown due to COVID, and others have transitioned to working from home permanently, creating a safe and inspiring space for ourselves, that expresses who we are, what we love, and what is important to us has become a priority. Hence, I thought I would take the initiative and share my ‘Lust Haves’ list with you each month. A list of 10 wonderful things I have found on the internet and Instagram, which I would personally love to own! As you know the Beautiful Bizarre Magazine brand encompasses: Art, Culture, Couture. So these lists will of course include visual art, some of which I have recently added to my collection, and some which I would love to acquire, plus fashion, jewellery, ceramics, home wares, garden and pet related goodies, music, books and whatever else is on my ‘Lust Haves’ list at the time. All the goodies that feed the mind, body and soul.

I hope you find some inspiration from my list to update your look and create your own sanctuary. One which expresses your unique individual style, brings you comfort, and joy, and inspires you each day. I personally advocate for shopping local where possible both for environmental reasons, and of course to support local makers and brands. However my lists will include both Australian and international artists ad brands to cater to our special international community.

I will be collecting all my ‘Lust Have’ ideas via my personal Instagram account @danijelakrhapurssey, so please join me there, and feel free to suggest some amazing products via DM to my Instagram account.

Exciting! Take a peek at my September 2021 ‘Lust Haves’ below. You can check out my August Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ list here for even more inspiration.

Much love xo

Danijela Krha Purssey // Editor-in-Chief, Beautiful Bizarre Magazine

September 2021 // Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves

Del Kathryn Barton is my ultimate ‘art throb’! I know right, that is a huge call – considering what I do for a living! She has inspired, fascinated and challenged me for many years. I was deeply honoured to feature her work on the cover of the March 2018 re-launch issue of Beautiful Bizarre Magazine, and the interview within is wonderfully honest, intimate and moving. This print issue is of course sold out, but you can still purchase the digital magazine here.

Del has won Australia’s most prestigious Art Prize, the Archibald Prize, multiple times and deservedly so. Her work is unashamedly both beautiful and bizarre. I really admire her bravery to push boundaries, and explore very intimate women’s stories both through her paintings, and drawings, and her short films. This painting above is one of my all time favourites. You can see it animated in Del’s collaboration with Brendan Fletcher, their incredible short film brings Oscar Wilde’s The Nightingale and the Rose to vivid life in this animation masterpiece. If you haven’t experienced this amazing project check out a little teaser here, you wont be disappointed.

I would of course love to own one of Del’s original works! She is on my ultimate wish list. However a print of this spectacular painting would also be a dream.

If you’ve checked out my previous ‘Lust Haves’ list you will know that my husband and I recently moved into our forever home – a 130 year old timber cottage in regional NSW. Of course, the house has inspired lots of ideas regarding potential new décor for each space. This stunning rattan bedhead by Danish furniture manufacturer Sika-Design would look divine in front of the gorgeous original fireplace in our guest bedroom.

Zimmermann is one of my favourite Australian designers. I love far too many of their beautiful feminine dresses, blouses and skirts! I must admit I have a few gorgeous dresses by this designer already, but hey I couldn’t possibly wear the same dress to to more than one exhibition opening, could I? ;)

Zimmermann now has stores in the US, UK and Europe. If you have one near you, I highly recommend a visit – it’s heaven.

Concert Tie Neck Mini Dress, click through above to see the runway presentation. PS. the leggings and boots need to come home with me as well!

Amber Cowan’s contemporary glass sculptures are so beautiful and unique that they take my breath away! Her work is definitely on my collectors wish list. This work redefines modern glass art – from its materiality, to its divine colour, and surreal fluid form. Yes please!

Azure Ryder is a brilliant young Australian musician, singer and songwriter from Sydney whose music really touches my soul, and moves my body – vibrating from my heart ever outward until I’m just sitting here grooving while I work. Azure released her debut EP, Running With The Wolves, on 27 March 2020. The embedded snippet of her song Dizzy is above, give it a listen and let you spirit soar with this super talented young artist.

Some of the lyrics from Dizzy:

Half the time I’m wading water
And the other half I’m in the sky
‘Cause it’s the rise and the fall
That keeps us moving

I did mention in my August Lust Haves list that I am OBSESSED with ceramics right? Well as soon as I saw Australian artist Bonnie Hislop announce that she was dropping a new batch of her fun and quirky ceramics I couldn’t resist – and for once I actually a) saw the post prior to the work going on sale, and b) managed to get online on time to nab one of these fabulous trophies! Can you guess which one is mine?

The orange ‘Not the Worst‘ handmade ceramic sculpture is coming to live with me real soon. It will have pride of place on the mantle in my office and remind me every day that I am not the worst ;) So I must be doing something right, even when times are tough.

I’m really vibing on these sunglasses! The perfect shade of green and the sparkles – fabulous! They have been on my wish list for some time. I wear glasses full time so getting new sunglasses is a big investment once you also get new prescription tinted lenses put in – I am currently visualising them on my face – which of course makes them appear, doesn’t it?

These gorgeous glasses are by Australian eyeware and accessories brand MAUDE Studio.

Australian artist Lilli Waters was a finalist in the Photography Award category in both the 2019 and 2020 Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize, and since then I have been following her closely. There is something enigmatic, cinematic and yet intimate about her fine art photography. I since had the pleasure of working with her on her in-depth interview editorial in Issue 31 of Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

I’m excited to reveal that Lilli will be participating in Beautiful Bizarre Magazine’s 2nd Museum exhibition globally, and the 1st Museum exhibition in Australia next May. Stay tuned for more information about this special exhibition which will feature, for the first time, Australian creatives only.

The above photograph Extinct, from her Anthropocene series, is one of my favourites – I’m sure you can see why!

I’m blessed to have lots of beautiful blowsy roses in my garden, and had posies of roses in most rooms of my house from December when we moved in, until late Autumn. What a joy! However the colder months left a little floral hole in my heart so I have embraced dried flowers, including this gorgeous little arrangement by French florist Celestine Morel.

I love the quirky, the handmade, the unique, and of course the beautiful and bizarre – and American creative Carly Elizabeth Owens-Weiss’ wonderful collection of embroidered earrings and necklaces give me a little thrill! The Beatrice Necklace keeps whispering to me ….. I think she wants to come and adorn my bodice ;)

I hope you enjoyed this little journey into my personal aesthetic. Stay tuned, my next Top 10 ‘Lust Haves’ list will be published in October. xox

The post Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

Since many of us are still in lockdown due to COVID, and others have transitioned to working from home permanently, creating a safe and inspiring space for ourselves, that expresses who we are, what we love, and what is important to us has become a priority. Hence, I thought I would take the initiative and share my ‘Lust Haves’ list with you each month. A list of 10 wonderful things I have found on the internet and Instagram [physical shopping is not possible in my location – we are in full lock down currently], which I would personally love to own. As you know the Beautiful Bizarre Magazine brand encompasses: Art, Culture, Couture. So these lists will of course include visual art, some of which I have recently added to my collection, and some which I would love to acquire, plus fashion, jewellery, ceramics, home wares, garden and pet related goodies, music, books and whatever else is on my ‘Lust Haves’ list at the time.

I hope you find some inspiration from my list to create your own sanctuary, which expresses your unique individual tastes – that inspires you each day, gives you comfort, and brings you joy. I personally advocate for shopping local where possible both for environmental reasons, and of course to support local makers and brands. However my lists will include both Australian and international brands to cater to our special international community.

I will be collecting all my ‘Lust Haves’ ideas via my personal Instagram account @danijelakrhapurssey, so please join me there, and feel free to suggest some amazing products via my Instagram account.

Exciting! Take a peek at my August 2021 ‘Lust Haves’ below.

Much love xo

Danijela Krha Purssey // Editor-in-Chief, Beautiful Bizarre Magazine

August 2021 // Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves

I have been lusting after these fabulous goth/witchy glasses by Adele Mildred for ages now! I love what she has written in her Instagram bio – “Esoteric eyewear and art by Adele Mildred. Ethical fashions for weirdos.” The weirdos are my people!

I recently acquired this stunning mixed media artwork by Andi Soto, from the exhibition ‘Lucid Dreaming’, that I curated on behalf of Beautiful Bizarre Magazine earlier this year at Copro Gallery in LA. This work is absolutely incredible in the reals – Im clearly a maximalist at heart!

I am so proud to own one of Andi’s works, she now has pride of place in my living room.

“Fever Dreams”, 2021. Ink, graphite, watercolor, color pencils, polymer and acrylic on Arches 300gsm paper, 12.6” x 18.2” 

As I have gotten older, I have become a huge fan of florals, and these dresses by Australian brand Saloon are just gorgeous, and really need to come and live in my wardrobe.

“SALOON for the wild and the wise. Limited edition hand made pieces featuring the finest fabrics from Liberty London.”

Sculpture is my favourite medium, and I have been collecting more and more over the years. I was so very honoured, and absolutely thrilled to have received this incredible handmade black porcelain crown by amazing Australia ceramicist Ebony Russell, as a birthday gift this year. The best birthday present ever!!

My husband and I recently bought a federation, period cottage built in the late 1800’s, in regional NSW. We are so in love with our new home, and feel so very grateful to have a house of our own! Excitingly I can finally get some new furniture that will suit the style and age of the home. YAY shopping! These gorgeous french provincial style chairs are already on order and I hope they are delivered soon. The rattan back and the peacock blue velvet upholstery are giving me life! Provincial Home Living is currently my favourite furniture retailer – I want all the things.

Speaking of new homes, I have been busy in the garden when not working on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine. Gardening is one of my loves, it feeds my soul. I get to step away from my screens, get outside and into the sunshine, get my hands dirty, and give my body some much needed exercise. I recently planted lots of new roses in our garden and this is one of them, ‘Red Riding Hood’ from Australian rose nursery Treloar Roses. I adore the old world feel of these blowsy blooms. From Spring to Autumn I will have roses in most rooms of my home, plus of course throughout my garden. I cant wait to see them grow!

I adore quirky female voices and singer/song writers. Australian musician Kate Miller-Heidke is on of my favourites. I have even had the pleasure of seeing her live – it was such a thrill! I was definitely fan-girling. She released a new album not long ago ‘CHILD IN REVERSE’, above is a small part of one of the songs from this album that really speaks to my soul – ‘DELUDED’.

I purchased another artwork from the recent Beautiful Bizarre Magazine exhibition at Copro Gallery. What can I say, as the curator it is way too hard to resist! This exquisite painting by artist Marc Burckhardt is glorious in person. I am so very honoured to have one of his beautiful paintings in my collection. She now has pride of place in my living room by my fireplace.

“The Dream”, 2021. Acrylic & oil on wood panel, 9.25″ x 7.5″

More florals, but this time in picnic rug form. As you can imagine I am very much looking forward to Spring! It has been a long cold winter here, some nights have gotten down to -5 degrees celsius [23 fahrenheit]. I have promised myself that this year I will take my husband and my precious Golden Retriever ‘Monty’ on a picnic to some of the wonderful wild locations here in Regional NSW.

These gorgeous picnic rugs are by Australian brand Wandering Folk. Their range of rugs, cushions, throws etc are all so beautiful!

Speaking of ceramics, I am obsessed! Both sculptural and functional. I recently purchased the little one on the left in the pic above. The texture and the fun shapes that Nadia Robertson incorporates into her handmade pottery makes me happy! My ceramics collection is growing – YAY!

I hope you enjoyed this little journey into my personal aesthetic. Stay tuned, my next ‘Lust Haves’ list will be published in September. xox

The post Editor’s Top 10 Lust Haves appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

Kin Fables has started with a trilogy of short films, Kin, Salvage and Requiem, and is now going on with a feature film. With his new video, Kin Fables: The Stolen Child, director Seb McKinnon wants to tell a simple yet essential story. Music is replacing words, giving their full space to emotions, in their utmost expression, captured inside epic and intense landscapes. Just a look at these films and you will be adamant that absolute beauty exists and they will remind you to admire nature again. But let’s start our journey with the original trilogy.

Set in wild nature, full of elemental beauties, Kin is taking us back to innocence. In the short, it takes the form of a young boy and a young girl, separated by what looks like two different magical worlds. In one of these, strange masked creatures display a bewitching ritual, between paganism and dream.

The second one, Salvage introduces us to a pilot, falling in the forest and meeting an older version of the young heroine of Kin, but also a group of old wise men, in a breathtaking storm. Contrasting with the first two movies, Requiem is set in a cold and impersonal city, where the young hero of Kin has grown up. If the urban landscape can be beautiful, it is dark and full of frustration, and the young man is looking like an inmate inside a prison of glass, concrete and disillusioned relationships. When the masked creatures, old men and the pilot of the previous films are starting to appear in the streets, the hero leaves the city in order to find the settings of his childhood’s dream again and to be reunited with his kindred soul, the heroine.

The amazing reception of the trilogy is proving that human beings are craving for inspiring fictions and art such as Kin Fables. With many well-deserved awards and an ever-growing number of followers and fans, the short films have triggered an artistic impulse, with the creation of massive fan art.

Created by brothers Seb and Ben McKinnon, of Five Knights Production, the success of the project convinced the team of Kin Fables to extend their fantasy universe with exciting upcoming projects such as a graphic novel, a feature film, as well as a new album for their gorgeous music project CLANN. Beautiful Bizarre Magazine and Seb McKinnon have decided to team to make you discover The Stolen Child in exclusivity: enjoy!

With Kin Fables: The Stolen Child, the team is giving us a glimpse to a bigger project. The short is also the music video for the track “The Stolen Child” from CLANN’s album, Seelie. We’re meeting a young faerie child, portrayed by a bewitching young actress, dancing with the Spirit, angel of Change, Death and Time. We also witness the encounter of the Knight and the Faerie Queen, who comes to him in the night and tells him things he once knew, but has forgotten. Needless to say, this is an amazing appetizer of the final feature film…

For the occasion, Seb McKinnon has accepted to take us on a tour inside the Kin Fables wonderland and its future, with a captivating interview.

How was the idea and story of the Kin Fables born? Can you tell specific influences and sources of inspiration that have shaped the project and its esthetics?

It all began when I purchased a copy of Logic and started experimenting with music production. Around the same time, my brother Ben and I decided to take a month-long backpacking trough Europe, starting with Scotland. I had one of my songs with me on the trip, and I remember listening to it and getting visions. Characters started populating my mind; masked spirits, fairy children, knights, horses… The more I listened to the song, the more the scenes became clear, and the more I felt the need to somehow make all this real. Film was the way to do it. I spoke of these ideas with Ben and we agreed to throw ourselves completely into bringing these visuals to life, to tell whatever story was presenting itself to us, to make decisions with pure feeling alone and trust our gut instincts.

There were many sources of inspiration, which formed aesthetics of the project, some perhaps more on a subconscious level. There are parallels with Celtic and Scandinavian myths and legends, and even our own Canadian Aboriginal folklore. The design of the spirit masks/costumes were heavily influenced by Inuit designs and the art of animation filmmaker Myazaki. And I was really into the films of Tarkovsky and Bergman while coming up with the ideas and how we were going to tell this story.

The idea of getting lost is a sort of underlying theme in the trilogy and more evident in the title of the feature film. What is the meaning of this lost state? Is it a personal feeling or something we could all relate to?

I think at some point in our lives we all become lost; it’s a completely relatable feeling. I’m particularly interested in that lost state one might feel at the junction between childhood and adulthood. The loss of innocence so to speak. The transition occurs without us truly being aware of it most of the time; life just happens. We grow up. And it’s only something we can look at with retrospective wisdom. On a personal level, I had this fear of losing my true self as a child, and not being able to find my way back. I believe there is magic in the world, and the source of that magic comes from holding on to what is true, being true to oneself. Anyone can harness that magic, and use it like a power. For some reason, many of us lose sight of this in adulthood. The concepts of Truth, or the Sacred are met with ridicule or indifference by many, if not most of society; they are drowned with the noise and static and illusions of the non-essential.

Would you say that nature is one of the main characters of the project? What is the part played by this particular character, especially in connection with the human ones?

It is. In connection to the characters, nature is the way back to who they once were, the recollection of something they thought they had forgotten. In a way, the masked Spirits are agents of nature, of the flow of life itself. They nudge the story along, pulling the strings behind the scenes so the characters may go through their transformative journeys.

What are the natural locations featured in the films? How did you select them?

The scenes in KIN were shot in Montebello, Quebec. Our family has a cottage there; it’s where I spent my childhood summers. The locations have special significance to me for this reason. SALVAGE was shot on the West Coast of Newfoundland, which I was drawn to for its resemblance to Nordic countries/Scotland in terms of look and feel. It’s a very beautiful island, which exudes a strong air of mystery and desolation. REQUIEM was shot in Montreal, where our company Five Knights Productions is based.

In the third film, Requiem, the city and our contemporary way of living are pictured with a shade of frustration and even angst, but not without beauty: what do you want to show with the contrast and similarities between the urban and natural worlds? Do you think that those two worlds are compatible?

For me they are two different worlds, and I’m still questioning myself whether they are compatible or not, because in a way, the birth of a city means the death of nature. I think this is an incredibly subjective question; I can only speak for myself when I say I suffocate in a city environment. My being needs the quiet and solitude nature offers, and I can say with certainty I’ve only felt peace and profound happiness in nature. But in the films, it was important for me to not portray the city itself in a negative light. That’s not what the message is. At the end of Requiem, the boy perhaps chooses to return to the city, once having reconnected with his past, it’s up for the viewer to decide…

Magic is the main element of the project, with two types of characters able to convey it, old men and children… would you say that your project is a reminder that adults need magic too, and that they can find their innocence back by reminding ancient cultures?

This has something to do with the concept of the Sacred mentioned earlier. Not from a religious point of view, but from a more spiritual outlook. Ancient cultures recognized the Sacred, at least much more than humanity does today I think. Love is sacred. Purity and Innocence are sacred. Morals/values should be sacred things. Because they are beautiful and fragile. Human actions can break them so easily. They can be lost. We have to be careful with them, and take care of them. Children can remind us of the magic these things hold, and the wisdom of age give us to the tools to protect them.

The project has many different artistic facets: the movies, but also the graphic novel, the art book and the music; can you tell us more about these aspects and how they interact with each others?

It’s all about world-building. KIN Fables is a cinematic universe in development. The graphic novel (still a work in progress), is the starting point for the feature film we’re currently developing. The art book collects all the paintings, sketches, behind the scenes photos illustrating the creative process of the project. The music is definitely a strong driving force behind everything; it’s the heartbeat of KIN Fables. The music we make under the name CLANN conjures images in my imagination, and inspires me to create more films, and the actual filmmaking inspires the music creation in turn. All artistic facets feed each other constantly, giving life to the world we’re building over time.

Is there already a release date for the feature film? How is different or similar to the Kin trilogy?

We’re still debating between 2 titles “ The Sad Prince” or “ The Stolen Child”. Our fans are also split down the middle on this decision. At the moment we have a final script, and we’re seeking financing for the feature, which is an incredible challenge. It’s not an easy film to sell to studios/investors/distribution companies since I’m striving to create something new, something different than what’s been done before… In a way it is similar to the trilogy in terms of look and feel, and the themes are echoed in the events of the feature, but “ The Stolen Child/Sad Prince” will take place only in the world portrayed in the first short film KIN. The main difference will be of course the addition of dialogue in the feature, and the introduction of new exiting characters that will interact with those present in the Trilogy.

What are your future plans, both for the Kin Fables universe and other projects?

The feature film is the one goal our team is reaching towards. It’s something we’ve been fighting for a long time. After that, who knows?

According to you, if there would be only one thing, one message, to find in Kin Fables, what would it be?

May I answer this with a poem?
From Rilke:

You, sent out beyond your recall,
go to the limits of your longing.
Embody me.
Flare up like a flame
and make big shadows I can move in.
Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror.
Just keep going. No feeling is final.
Don’t let yourself loose me.

The post Interview: Inside The Graceful Cinematic Universe Of Kin Fables appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

Seattle-based artists Anomie Belle and Redd Walitzki have come together to create an absolutely decadent collaboration in alignment with Anomie’s newest album, Flux. Readers are invited to experience ‘Lovers’, the first single from Flux. It is both an audial experience as well as a visual journey, in a celebration of music and personal exploration, created in tandem with a beautiful art book. Redd is one of the featured artists in this book and her piece is a vivid, dewy portrait featuring Anomie herself. We’ve asked them to share more about Flux, their process, and their creative connection.

“A haunting and darkly sexy portrait of beautiful alienation, Anomie Belle: Flux is an album listening event and visual art exhibition that explores disillusionment and the search for identity. The project features works from international visual artists inspired by Flux, the forthcoming album from multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and producer Anomie Belle. The August 5th opening at Modern Eden Gallery will serve as a preview of the new music, which releases on August 26th.” ~ Modern Eden Gallery

Flux: Anomie Belle
Album Preview & Group Exhibition 

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zYc24J3A8o&w=560&h=315]
Anomie, can you tell us a little bit about your new album and art book, Flux?  

A: This chapter of my life has been creatively inspiring and fueled by intimacy.  I’ve been reflecting a lot about identity and the consonance and dissonance of the isolation we all experience.  The result is an album of constantly evolving, dreamlike, intimate musical landscapes that express those feelings and experiences.  I connected with over a dozen artists to create an art book to accompany the album that also represent that.  Redd was one of the people I got really close to while making Flux, so she understands me… and the music deeply.  She captured so much of what this album is about in her perfectly surreal portrait.

How did the two of you come to work together?

R: Anomie and I began collaborating a few years ago, after serendipitously connecting and realizing we had a mutual admiration and understanding of each other’s work. Flux was in its very early stages and my work was rapidly transforming. When Anomie started putting the art book together, I was delighted to have the opportunity to create a piece for her and wanted to capture both the sensitivity and strength that I relate to in her music. My hope was to create something that feels very iconic, and it’s amazing that it gets to grace the cover of her beautiful album!

Are there similarities you share that made collaborating across genres feel more natural?

A: Not only do Redd and I inspire one another, we also care about and think about similar things. We’re both enamored with the process of making art and are influenced by even the dismal, uncomfortable and grotesque aspects of our culture.  We each take that and create our own bizarre worlds within our respective art.  Yet aesthetically, there is an overarching attunement to beauty, and a sensibility and perfectionism in what we do.

R: We definitely share common aesthetic taste and explore similar themes in the subject matter of our work. There is an undercurrent of subversive sensuality in what we both do, and a dialogue that examines our consumer culture.  We are both drawn to the spirit and the spontaneity of artists who wield their art in ways that are both critical and emotive.

Could you tell us more about how you two have connected around your creative process?

R: There’s a kinship in the ways we layer, remix and build our work in stages to create the final version. Both of our techniques allow a chance to capture spontaneous moments of beauty (a particular sound, a unique drip of paint), and then slowly refine the structure of the work around that, balancing the chaos of chance with the polished refinement of a carefully crafted final piece.  Both of us also create through an elaborate technical process; the product of many years of deliberate experimentation.

A: Yeah, we each find a balance between creating the thing we originally intended and being experimental so the work can take its own life. For both of us, the process of layering is what creates the unique textures and nuances.

It sounds like technology plays an interesting role in process and layering for you both. How do you tend to use new technologies in your work?

R: It’s always seemed to me that the greatest artists of their eras used every possible tool they had at their disposal to give their work an edge – like DaVinci experimenting with “oil paint,” or Vermeer likely using camera obscura optics while painting.

A: I certainly wouldn’t be making the kind of music I am without a computer and a bunch of other electronic gadgets, and Redd is using digital tools for reference photos and between stages of her process, and a laser cutter to create ornate designs that function as the “frame” of her works.  We are so fortunate to live in a time when we have so much control over what we can manipulate to create new possibilities.

R: This excitement for new technological advances is definitely something Anomie and I share, and we are both experimenting with new ways they can shape our processes all the time!  It allows us to approach our work like we are mad scientists!

Awesome! So where can we get Flux and find out more about it and the art book?

A: You can buy the art book and preorder the album at from my bandcamp page and find out more at my website.

R: You can see more of my paintings and learn about my process at my website.

The post Interview with Anomie Belle & Redd Walitzki appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.

New York has a particular grind that is, at times, exhausting and terrible. I’ve seen people in the subway, swaying with the push and pull of the train, with permanent frown lines embedded into their face as if they were born with the weight of dissatisfaction and depression pressing down on their shoulders. However, I have also witnessed small kindnesses that shed light onto the lives of the inhabitants of this city and inspire people to flourish yet another day. Smiles given to passing strangers, pausing a moment to hold a door open, dollars stuffed into tip jars, and helping hands offered in heartfelt nods to the importance of community. When I stumbled across Adam Gnade’s book The Do-It-Yourself Guide to Fighting the Big Motherfuckin’ Sad in the legendary Lower East Side Bluestockings Bookstore it was on a day when storm clouds were choking the sunlight. The bright orange book cover reached out to me, as did the encouraging words within.

Adam Gnade is a musician, writer, and all around incredible human. He has had multiple titles published, and his newest work, Locust House, was released only a few days ago to an eagerly awaiting audience. His work is beautiful not only because of its mellifluous quality, but also due to it’s brutally raw honesty. Few things are more exhilarating than authentic vulnerability. Take a chance, turn a page, and prepare to be revived.

For more information about Adam Gnade and his work please visit his website and or Bandcamp page.

Justine: I would love it if you could give our readers a little background or introduction to the awesome things you’ve done in the past, and the present. Your work spans many diverse activities, and is incredibly inspiring! Would you have guessed long ago that your life would take so many different paths?

Well, thanks, that’s really sweet of you to say. So, yeah, what I do is I put out a series of connected books and records. The music I call “talking songs.” It’s talked vocals over music, the characters in the songs are the characters in the books, and the plots in the books are the plots in the songs. It’s one big universe and it’s my life project; a place I can go and lose my troubles for a while. The whole series of books and records is called “We Live Nowhere and Know No One”-which is a line that can be interpreted a few different ways and I’ll leave that up to whoever wants to unpack it. (The only divergence from that is the Big Sad book series, which is kind of a fluke.)
As far as would I have guessed I’d be doing this and living this way? Not at all. I had no idea I would ever make it this far. I get to see the world and do all the things I dreamed I would do as a kid. Somehow, it worked out. It’s weird and exciting. I won’t try to be cool and edgy and play it off as anything other than that. I’m stoked to be doing this. It’s fucking fun.

When I first read your guidebooks I thought of the Krishnamurti quote where he said, “It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” As with your book, that quote has made me feel better in some rough moments. Are there quotes, people, places, or books that you turn to when you’re needing an extra push towards positivism or things in general that you find yourself drawn to over and over?

I tend toward liking dark, sad, heavy, brutal books and music, nothing with a lot of redemption at the end. Mostly I get courage from people. When I find someone who’s living well, being brave, doing the things I’d like to do but am too afraid of, that’s what pushes me in the right direction. Without those people, a lot of us would be bones in the ground in some crappy box somewhere. We need them as we need air, food, and water. Even if they’re fictional, dead, or 3,000 miles away we need them. They give us courage and they’re our weapons and shields in the war against our total annihilation.

In the beginning of the ‘Big Motherfuckin’ Sad’ guide you talk about a time when things were rough for you. Digging one’s self out of depression or even just random ruts can be extremely difficult. Was there a particular moment that shook you out of it, or was it a compilation of many moments?

There was, yeah. I lived in Virginia a while back and I spent all of my time down at the Chesapeake Bay lying in the sun trying to understand Saul Bellow’s Adventures of Augie March or floating in the water on my back. I was very sad and terrified of everything, drinking too much, and coming off a hard, stressful time in San Diego. I was also writing my first book, Hymn California, though I didn’t know it at the time.
It was early summer-a hot, dry, windy day-and I was lying on my back floating in the Chesapeake staring up at the sky thinking something along the lines of “Life is a giant pile of dog crap, the future is hopeless, kill me please,” and I just decided I was done. I was done being depressed and fatalistic and stupid and morbid. At that point, I could have tried a treatment for depression, whether it be anti-depressants or cannabis. Personally, I would rather something natural and I know a lot of people recommend growing your own cannabis, so I probably would have chosen that. But instead, I imagined my problems as a bullet and I decided to step aside and let it pass by me. And it did. I wasn’t “cured” or anything of the sort but that was when I began to actively try to get better. I still get depressed like anyone else but I handle it smarter these days. I pull out of it faster.

You have a few books that you give advice and inspiration to rising above the difficulty of life. When did you realize you wanted to start writing books to support others in their search for happiness?

The Big Sad series was an accident. I was going through a rough spot and needed to write some pep talks for myself and for some people close to me. I put them online, they got a lot of attention, suddenly it was a book and a couple companion guides, then there was printing after printing, and now it pays my rent. That was three years ago. Seems like a lot longer. Some days I feel like I’m 12 and some days I feel like a 500 year old vampire.

Your new book “Locust House” was just put out by Pioneers Press and Three One G. I love that your writing is often musically infused, and even more so with “Locust House” because Three One G, along with Pioneers Press, released your book collaboratively. It’s a really beautifully inclusive decision to put work out like that; how did the collaboration come about?

We’ve worked together on small things over the years and joining forces seemed like the most natural thing to do. I’m very honored to be on the Three One G roster and I have to still keep reminding myself it’s happening. Being up there with Retox and Get Hustle and The Locust and Black Dice and Antioch Arrow and everyone else is pretty life affirming.

How did you hook up with Pioneers Press and Punch Drunk Press and what made you want to work with them specifically out of the many publishing companies out there? What advice do you have for aspiring young writers trying to make the difficult decision of choosing between publishers?

I was one of the founding members of Pioneers Press when it began a few years ago. I don’t work for the press much anymore (though I pitch in every now and again). These days I’m just kind of an in-house author for them which is the best job you could ask for. I’m not sure what advice I’d have for writers in regards to choosing between publishers because I’m still figuring this out. I’ve gotten lucky in a lot of ways and it’s kept me away from having to battle to get published and find an audience and all that. I’ve worked very hard on the writing side of it but the other parts sort of fell into my lap. I’m pretty fortunate in that regard.

Why did you decide to move from San Diego, a very active culturally infused city, to, as you said, out in the sticks, bad reception and all?

I left San Diego years before I decided to come out here, but as far as why, I’ve always wanted to live on a nice piece of land. Wide open spaces. Read too many cowboy novels growing up.
Personally, punk has introduced me to philosophies, and ways of being, that infiltrate many aspects of my life today.

Besides being a setting for your new book, how, if at all, has your background in music shaped the way you see things or live life?
Punk gave me a core set of beliefs. Don’t work with horrible people. Don’t do anything that compromises your ethics. Don’t lie to get what you want. Don’t threaten or oppress anyone. Don’t let people tell you what to do. Do the work. Do things on your own terms. Work your art like a full-time day job and hustle every day until it is. Work along your own timeline…that sort of thing. Basically, try to be one of the good guys. Watching Three One G develop when I was younger was a big part of that.

You have a book tour coming up, which I hope to catch myself! How do you like interacting with your fans and meeting them face to face? Ever received any fan mail that just really blew you away?

I put my email in the Big Sad book and I told people I was there if they wanted to talk. I didn’t imagine the extent of the response. I get emails all throughout the day about the book. Some are harder to write back to. Some take precedence. It can be taxing. It’ll wear you down but I think it’s one of the most important things I can do with my time. The connected books and records are my real work, the thing I love doing, but maybe the other stuff is why I’m here.
Many artists put on airs with their fans and try to create some sort of mystique but I find that insulting and untrue. Be human, be kind, be real, be a straight shooter, be one of the good guys. The world is mean-it’s sad and dismissive and brutal and ugly-and people deserve some gentleness. Everybody does-even the worst people you’ll meet. I mean, people start off so sweet and good-hearted but a lot of them get messed-up beyond belief at an early age. It’s hard to cast blame on anyone for being awful when we live in a world that can choke the goodness out of us as soon as we’re born. You should try to be good and kind to everyone you meet because of that. Doesn’t mean you have to be their friend but don’t condemn them without considering how they got to where they are. Life is monstrous. People get damaged and they become monsters. It’s true and sad, and knowing that is an important early step toward understanding life and navigating through it without growing bitter and hard.

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Roxanna Walitzki is a performance artist trained at NYU and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Often defined as an “operatic iconoclast,” Roxanna combines the potential narrative aspects of beauty with electronic music and fashion in her unusual and innovative arrangements of classical songs. Her work incorporates both baroque and classical opera. She has been in recitals at the Smith Tower, Roq La Rue Gallery, the Bemis Arts Building, the Seattle Art Museum PACCAR Sculpture Garden, the Seattle Opera on Tap as well as the Vespertine Opera Theater.

Her debut EP “Exquisite Corpse” will be released May 20, 2016 in digital format.

Roxanna Walitzki: “Exquisite Corpse”

Limited Edition Print of “Blackberry Wine” & Digital Download
Printed with archival quality giclee inks on Hahnemühle Fine Art Satin Photo Rag (300gsm).
Paper Size: 11″ x 14″
Image Size: Approx 9″ x 12″
Signed and numbered edition based on how many are ordered in the time limited period

May 20 – June 10, 2016

“Exquisite Corpse” was conceived and realized in collaboration with her sister, the renowned contemporary artist Redd Walitzki. Redd creates masterful works in which the subjects – young, otherworldly creatures more human than not – are caught in moments of intense pain, perceptual overload, ecstasy and introspection as they are immersed in nature’s ambiguous wonderland. In Redd’s paintings one can almost hear nature uncontaminated – bird songs, rustling winds and leaves and rushing water. Her performances interpret these sounds of nature, as well as the sounds of the body, and in effect, the human soul. Her velvet voice celebrates the divine wilderness of nature in solitude, and evokes the inhabitants of the woods; the artist’s classical references echo tales of mythological beings, gods and ancient poets.

Roxanna’s “Exquisite Corpse” overlays gauzy French poems on electronic renditions of Fauré’s and Debussy’s melodies for voice and piano. The tracks employ carefully manipulated synths, vocal glitches, orchestral dynamics and sweeping guitar work by Anomie Belle, who also mastered the tracks for the album.

“Exquisite Corpse” will be released with a limited print edition of images from Redd’s 2015 exhibition of the same name at Modern Eden Gallery. Redd’s prints are lush, nude portraits of Roxanna, her face covered in leaves and butterflies. In the teaser video below, the leaves and butterflies move about, as if awakened by the magic sound of her voice, complementing the ethereal and timeless atmosphere of Redd’s paintings.

The post Roxanna Walitzki’s “Exquisite Corpse” appeared first on Beautiful Bizarre Magazine.