Tag Archives: Art

Art, Decorative Arts

Coit Tower Murals in San Francisco

January 17, 2015 romicortier@yahoo.com 1 Comment

Coit Tower, San Francisco, Photo Romi Cortier

Mural at Coit Tower, San Francisco, Photo Romi Cortier

Plack at Coit Tower, San Francisco, Photo Romi Cortier — Plaque at Coit Tower, San Francisco, Photo Romi Cortier

I discovered the Coit Tower Murals in San Francisco by accident… I know, sounds weird, right.

It was Christmas Day of 2014 and I’d decided to have an anti-Christmas. Instead of spending time with my family, I opted for a road trip. It’s not that I don’t love my family, I do… no really, I do. It’s just that Christmas Day 2013 was spent in hospice caring for my mother who was losing her battle with lung cancer. It was a grueling holiday for all of us. So this year I decided not to put any pressure on myself, or my sisters, and simple travel where the wind took me. It was a day with absolutely no commitments to anyone, with the exception of dropping my boyfriend off at the San Francisco Airport at 6:30 a.m. I know it may sound selfish, but I wasn’t sure how much I could handle emotionally, and driving the empty streets of San Francisco was just what I needed. There’s so much beautiful architecture in the city, and I had a complete blast driving, discovering, and photographing what I found.

Towards the later part of the afternoon I found myself near Fisherman’s Wharf. I looked up the hill and saw the Coit Tower. How could I have not seen this before on previous visit’s to the City? I turned my car towards the tower, and wound my way to the top of Telegraph Hill. I easily nabbed a parking space in their very small parking lot at the base of the tower. It was a stellar cold and clear day, and the views from the grounds were breathtaking. I followed the other tourists towards the back of the building, snapping photos as I walked. I stepped around two tourists who’d stopped to photograph something. Then, as I looked back over my shoulder, I saw what they were looking at. It stopped me cold in my tracks. It was the most glorious orange and brown butterfly. You see, as my sisters were cleaning out our mom’s belongings last year, they were constantly discovering little glittery butterflies in her craft room cabinets and drawers. Thus, whenever they see a butterfly, they’re reminded of our mom. And here I was, standing on top of Telegraph Hill in San Francisco, with this exquisite butterfly. Try as I may to escape the memories of my previous Christmas, I was faced with this elegant little reminder of my mother. I snapped a few pics and sent them to my sisters… mom was with me.

Once around the back of the building, I looked through the locked glass doors and discovered the Murals of the Coit Tower. As I researched the murals for this article, I discovered that there were several more that I wasn’t able to see… 27 in all. Each created by a different on-site artist under the auspices of the Public Works of Art Project in 1933. The murals of the first floor (shown above) are about industry and commerce, depicting people grim with purpose trying to make their way amid the struggle and strife of the Great Depression.

The second floor murals have been largely hidden from the public for nearly 80 years, until recently. Having undergone intensive restoration, every effort is being made to give scheduled docent tours of 4-8 people at a time. The viewing area is extremely tight due to the narrow stairway that is only as wide as the tower itself. I hope that on my next visit to San Francisco, I can schedule one of these tours of the second floor murals. By the way, if you’re ever photographing something through a window, press your phone or camera right up to the glass, and you’ll avoid getting the reflective glare from the glass… you’re welcome.

Tourists at Coit Tower, San Francisco, Photo Romi Cortier

Butterfly at Coit Tower, San Francisco, Photo Romi Cortier

Art

Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics

January 6, 2015 romicortier@yahoo.com Leave a comment

LUSH Handmade Cosmetics, San Francisco, Photo Romi Cortier

LUSH Handmade Cosmetics, Photo Romi Cortier

LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics don’t fit into my traditional scope of writings on Art, Architecture, Interior Design or Window Display… unless you think of their yummy products as art. And in that case, they certainly qualify.

I recently discovered LUSH while visiting San Francisco. Sure they’re here in LA, but I didn’t know that until a few minutes ago when I sat down to write this post. This year I’d decided to take a holiday from the holidays, and spend my Christmas driving the streets of San Fran looking for fun things to photograph. I decided to start with Union Square since I was vaguely familiar with the area. I parked my car, and started walking the streets in search of great buildings. As I was walking up Powell Street I smelled something wonderful that stopped me in my tracks. I backed up… should I go in? It’s not art or architecture, but what the heck. This was a day dedicated to getting lost in the city and being open to whatever gifts were put in front of me.

Typically I’m the kind of guy who can’t tolerate fragrances as they trigger my allergies. But this place was divine. One of the sales associates spent a fair amount of time showing me products and educating me on their ingredients. Products with names like: Luxurious Creamy Fig Soap, Fabulous Fruity Mango-Mandarin, Meditative Patchouli Soap, Carmel and Honey Soap, Lime and Lavender Seaweed and Sea Salt Scrubber, Mushroom Jasmine and Ylang Ylang Soap… you get the picture.

I could’ve easily spent several hundred dollars in this store because so many of their items spoke to me… and my nose. Even though I didn’t spend a dime this time, I walked away feeling refreshed, invigorated, and intrigued. Having done some research on the company, I understand why I felt the way I did. They use whole, fresh ingredients from fresh fruits and vegetables, to essential oils and herb infusions… and yes, the occasional safe synthetics. They could go cheaper and use synthetic alternatives as opposed to fresh ingredients, but you wouldn’t have the same kind of product that affects you in such a positive way on a cellular level. That’s why my nose drew me into their store, it knew the difference. There’s an old adage, you get what you pay for. And with this company it’s a reduced carbon footprint, pure fresh ingredients, ethical buying from suppliers, reduced packaging and no animal testing. It’s truly the way of the future. I hope you’ll find a store near you and see if it’s right for you. I for one can’t wait to go back!

www.lushusa.com

Art, Decorative Arts, Interior Design

Curated Vintage at m[E]

December 5, 2014 romicortier@yahoo.com Leave a comment

m[E] Neon Art at material environment, Los Angeles, Photo Romi Cortier

Photography by Gregory Romeo at m[E], Los Angeles, Photo Romi Cortier

Gold Plated Film Reels at m[E], Los Angeles, Photo Romi Cortier

Vintage Chairs at m[E], Los Angeles, Photo Romi Cortier

Jimmy Achenbach Plexiglass Art at m[E], Los Angeles, Photo Romi Cortier

The curated vintage furniture, art and lighting at m[E] is nothing short of amazing. It’s no surprise that this little store on Beverly Boulevard and Gardner boasts 5 stars on yelp… how could it not. Store owner Ramon Delgado-Maynes is the renaissance man that creates the magic within it’s walls. With a background in architecture, art and interior design this gem of a space is clearly his passion. Nothing is mundane in this store. Pick up any item and Ramon can give you a complete rundown on it’s history. He’s a virtual encyclopedia of knowledge and is more than happy to share it with you.

I’ve visited this store countless times since it opened in 2009. I’m embarrassed to say that I haven’t bought anything substantial as of yet, but there’s plenty that I would love to have. And that’s what keeps me coming back… the possibilities. Besides the great conversation, it’s always exciting to see what new theme Ramon has put together. He rotates merchandise in and out of the store, brings in the work of new artists, as well as older artists, changes his color scheme on the walls, has art openings and social gatherings, as well as collections of furniture by the likes of Gio Ponti and Charles Hollis-Jones.

Currently on display is the photography of artist and former model Gregory Romeo, the Plexiglass and mirror works of Jimmy Achenbach featuring hand painted paper with minute and highly detailed cut-outs, and the petite works of artist Plastic God.

Visit m[E] here to learn more about upcoming shows and design services.

Art

Art Auction at Los Angeles Modern Auctions, October 12th, 2014.

October 3, 2014 romicortier@yahoo.com Leave a comment

Lot 224, Vapor Drawing, Larry Bell, 1978, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 154, Cat Person #1, Fritz Scholder, 1978, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 258, Phenomena Byron's Hunch, Paul Jenkins, 1978, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions — Lot 258, Phenomena Byron’s Hunch, Paul Jenkins, 1978, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 407, Untitled, Edmond Kohn, 1950's, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions — Lot 407, Untitled, Edmond Kohn, 1950’s, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 374, Balloon Dog (Blue) Jeff Koons, 1995, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 524, Untitled (Boat) Raimonds Staprans, 1963, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 362, #7, Karl Benjamin, 1986, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 377, Platter, Takashi Murakami, 2007, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

Lot 364, #18, Karl Benjamin, Image courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auction — Lot 364, #18, Karl Benjamin, 1983, Image courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auction

Lot 75, Double Standard, Ed Ruscha, 1969, Image Courtesy Los Angeles Modern Auctions

There’s another hot Art Auction coming up at Los Angeles Modern Auctions on October 12, 2014. I’ve been shopping at art auctions for over a decade because they’re an amazing way to add to a collection, plus they’re also a great opportunity to find items that are rarely on the market. Yes, some items are rather pricey, but others can be a relative steal, especially when compared to gallery pricing. An educated eye can easily spot the good stuff, even if it’s not expensive. The more you look at art, the more refined your eye becomes. Line, shape, color, texture, nuances in the thickness of the paint, it all adds up. And if all else fails, then trust your curator. And in this case, your curator would be Peter Loughrey.

Peter Loughrey is the Director of Modern Design & Fine Art at LA Modern Auctions. As a prominent figure in the L A art and design community, he’s been responsible for curating several gallery shows and is a member of the Decorative Arts and Design Council and Contemporary Friends. Therefore, when it comes to Los Angeles Modern Auctions, you can have faith in the quality of their lots. They’re very careful about vetting their pieces… I know because they’ve even refused a few of my own items, items that I thought were worthy. Fortunately they have strict guidelines to protect their collectors. The price point of this upcoming auction ranges from $1,000 – $100,000. I’m sharing a few of my favorite pieces here, simply because they appeal to my eye. I haven’t seen them in person, nor do I have a vested interest in their sale. I hope to attend the preview which runs till October 11, 2014, from 10am – 6pm, at 16145 Hart Street, Van Nuys, Ca. 91406.

Lot 224, Vapor Drawing by Larry Bell, Estimate: $4,000 – $6,000. I love this image because it reminds me of the corrugated metal fence at my home in Palm Springs. I’ve always wanted to do an oil painting to capture the reflective nature of the metal, however, this remarkable image has already done that.

Lot 154, Cat Person #1 by Fritz Scholder, Estimate: $6,000 – $9,000. At first glance this image looks like an abstract, but then the ears come into view. Plus who doesn’t love the sumptuous use of red with the chartreuse green accents.

Lot 258, Phenomena Byron’s Hunch by Paul Jenkins, Estimate: $3,000 – $5,000. Cool amorphous tones in violet and blue, with hints of magenta, a green flame glowing in the center with a contrasting Yellow rising sun. Pure joy.

Lot 407, Untitled by Edmond Kohn, Estimate: $800 – $1200. I just love this little midcentury gem. The line work of the bodies, the muted palette of green and orange tones with hints of salmon and apricot, it practically leaps from the canvas.

Lot 374, Balloon Dog (Blue) by Jeff Koons, Estimate $10,000 – $15,000. #1965 of 2300 MOCA Editions. I simply love any of Koons Cast Porcelain pieces with their lush reflective finishes, and if it comes in blue, even better.

Lot 524, Untitled (Boat) Raimonds Straprans, Estimate: $8,000 – $12,000. I love the use of black in this 1963 beauty, with accents of blue and orange. There’s such a graphic quality to the image that it reminds of Francoise Gilot.

Lot 362, #7 by Karl Benjamin, Estimate: $30,000 – $50,000. I’ve been a fan of Karl Benjamin since I discovered his work at ‘Birth of the Cool’ in Orange County about a decade ago. I’d love nothing more than to add one of his paintings to my collection, but they’re a bit out of my reach.

Lot 377, Platter by Takashi Murakami, Estimate $800 -$1200. Made on the occasion of the artist’s gala opening at MOCA in 2007, which was an amazing show and my first exposure to his work.

Lot 364, #18 by Karl Benjamin, Estimate: $12,000 – $15,000. I love how Benjamin has juxtaposed these bold geometric shapes in bold colors, married together with such a warm gray. I think I see the word LOVE being repeated…

Lot 75, Double Standard by Ed Ruscha, Estimate $50,000 – $70,000. It’s hard to imagine a screen print being valued at this price point, however, this is no ordinary screen print. It’s an 11-color screenprint on paper. I’ll presume that the white is the paper, plus there are 2 shades of blue for the sign. That leaves about 9 shades of orange, brown and black to create the gradation of tone in the sky.

Art, Interior Design

GEN LUX Magazine

August 25, 2014 romicortier@yahoo.com Leave a comment

Spider mum painting installation for Palm Springs home. Decor and Paintings by Romi Cortier — Spider Mum painting installation for Palm Springs home. Decor and Paintings by Romi Cortier

'Blue Spider Mum', Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier — ‘Blue Spider Mum’, Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier

'Pink Spider Mum', Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier — ‘Pink Spider Mum’, Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier

'Chartreuse Spider Mum', Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier — ‘Chartreuse Spider Mum’, Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier

'Orange Spider Mum', Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier — ‘Orange Spider Mum’, Oil on Canvas, 20 x 20, Romi Cortier

Photo shoot for GEN LUX Magazine in front of my Spider Mum Painting Installation, Palm Springs. (Romi Cortier)

I was photographed by GEN LUX Magazine during their early years, for an editorial piece that sadly never got published. The photo shoot happened in 2005 at my Palm Springs residence, in front of a series of paintings called ‘Spider Mum Installation’. The photographer/writer for the piece was the friend of a client, and was fascinated by the idea that I’d designed both the interiors of this home, as well as an art installation specific to the residence. The pitch idea also included the fact that I was a successful salon owner and hairdresser. Apparently this was a ‘triple threat’ and a conflict of interest to the other salon owners who’d purchased ad space in the new magazine. The pitch got shot down, but the photographer very graciously gave me these photos. Nearly a decade later, and I can’t tell you how much I enjoy having these images. (I look better than I remember)

The lone interior photo at the top shows the Spider Mum Installation in the context of the home. It was taken by a photographer I’d hired for the purpose of archiving my interior design work. You’ll also notice there’s an additional Spider Mum painting over the bed, seen just beyond the frosted glass door. The home has continued to evolve over the years, and was recently the location for my POP UP GALLERY during Modernism Week 2014. The DIY Video shot at this home in 2013 (Butterfly Mural – How To) is embedded below.

When I created this painting series, I actually painted 2 variations of each color palette. Two Orange mums, two blue mums etc. The pigments from each tube of paint had different densities, therefore, some paintings were more successful then others. The Chartreuse Mum was always one of my favorites, primarily because the thicker paint allowed more of the brush work to show. While some of the mums ended up looking more like sea anemones, it still worked in the larger scheme of things. This series can also be hung with three vertical or horizontal paintings or two rows of two, creating a large square. Personally, I like the impact of all nine works hanging side by side.

Over the years, I’ve sold off several of the pieces at my salon, usually as individual works. I still have a handful of them left, and would be more than happy to arrange a private showing of them to any collector who might be interested.

Where Art Inspires Beauty