Category: visual

“The real revelation in ‘America Is Hard to See’ comes in the works from before World War II – how not-European, not-modernism modern, not-programmatic, not-pure it looks. … At the same moment in the early 20th century when Europe and Russia, especially, were trying to make art dealing with the modern condition, Americans were actually just being modern, living it.”

“Bourgeois collectors, interested in enhancing plush domestic interiors, bought the cat canvases. It became a good market for artists, some of whom became well known in the genre.” (slideshow)

“Along with the fine border work and stars in the corners, the Penny Black didn’t feature the name of the country: Victoria was synonymous with the nation at this point. Instead, the word ‘Postage’ differentiated it from the revenue stamps that had been used for decades. Both that and the price, One Penny, were printed on the stamp.”

“It’s a very important and defining aspect of who we are now,” says the author of a book on how everyone is now a (cool) curator.

“‘Many of the photos picture peoples’ grandparents and parents, and there’s a strong emotional tie there,’ said Takei, who as a boy was imprisoned in two internment camps with his family. ‘To put that up on the auction block to the highest bidder, where it would just disappear into someone’s collection, was insensitive.'”

“E1027 was the first architectural work of the designer Eileen Gray, completed in 1929 when she was 51 years old. It was a pioneering and accomplished work of the modern movement in architecture, putting into practice ideas that were still new. More than that, it brought essential qualities into building that other modernists lacked.”

“We were short-staffed, I think that is acknowledged by everyone, but we were all trying to do our best. We also knew that the situation had to be temporary, and were looking forward to a resolution that would bring the museum back to its former self. There were low moments.”

“Mini Sky City has 19 atriums, 800 apartments and office space for 4,000 people, with space in the building going on sale in May. The structure is safe and can withstand earthquakes, according to Xiao.”

“While 61% of responders sign paper at least once a week or more, nearly half do so in a hurry and a full 30% just scribble something fast to get it done. It seems that in our rushed, digital age, the curlicues immortalized by Queen Elizabeth I have become unthinkable.”