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Video: Alexander “Sasha” Spivak
Alexander “Sasha” Spivak
After 24 years of living in New York, USA Sasha Spivak relocated his Art Studio to Western Massachusetts, USA. Alexander “Sasha” Spivak’s study of fine art began at an early age and showed incredible promise. He started to develop his unique style when at the Lviv College of Fine Arts. The artist’s unusual yet sophisticated imagery brought him through the surrealistic period to the series of technically perfect symbolic and rich in content art. Constantly developing his style Alexander “Sasha” Spivak established his own visual world of POETIC SYMBOLISM. After too many questions about connection of the style to a poetry Alexander came up with a formula “POETIC SYMBOLISM = ROMANTIC SURREALISM”. The “Grace of Interrelations” is a leitmotif of every artists artwork.
Published Article: Wellesley Hills Living – Luxury of a Cushion
The Luxury of a Cushion
At the end of February, I had a friend from Canada come visit as she was participating in a conference here in Boston. We shared similar interests that were directly related to our work; one interest was travel, which is often associated with another – research. She had just come back from spending 3 months in South America and ended up in Peru. On the last day of her stay in Boston at breakfast she was recounting her stay in Peru and talked about how hard it was to find a cushion and find comfortable seating to sit down and have a conversation. Sure there were hammocks, but the intimacy of a hammock sometimes can be too much.
A cushion.
It’s so interesting to me that someone else can find the luxury in a cushion; an object that is so prominent to our culture, which can be hard to believe that something so simple can be foreign to someone else. Cushions have often been a sign of luxury in many cultures around the world. When I think of luxury, sometimes I think of the gold and multi-colored cushions of the Middle East or the Far East. But one doesn’t have to go as far as Asia to experience this. It is often prominent in our society and local culture. High End furniture often have tufted cushions or fabric which exert luxury.
In the Victorian times, upholstered chairs and couches were definitely a sign of luxury and having an upholstered tufted couch was the ultimate sign of luxury. The luxury of a cushion can be found anywhere from the leather seats of your luxury car to luxury home décor. It’s always interesting to me to hear of my friends’ travels and their reactions to other cultures in other countries.
In America we can be so self-absorbed that sometimes we forget what it’s like to only have primitive surroundings. Americans sometimes wonder if those in third-world countries would be happier with more things, like we have. While running water, electricity and other utilities are often seen as luxury as well, sometimes we miss the little things that also can be luxury to someone else.
After my own experiences of traveling to third-world countries what I have learned from them is that while they may not have a much as we do, they may not necessarily be sadden by this but they make the best of what they have and they make the most of what they have. If you can be happy with making the most of what you have and live comfortably, then that is what is important. Sometimes luxury isn’t buying a $100,000 dollar ring, but being able to sit comfortably and have a conversation with your friends and loved ones.
Be on the lookout for future articles by Kristi which will feature ‘tips and tricks for artists to get ahead,’ Artwork ‘currently on view,’ Projects ‘in the studio,’ Travel Stories ‘on the road and in the air,’ and finally ‘lifestyle’ adventures. You can find more about Kristi, and her work on her blog: http://blog.kglyphics.com.
Wellesley Hills Living
Wellesley Hills Living is a private publication dedicated to the Country Club Neighborhood .
Published Article: The Perpetual You – Transitions: Collaboration and Creation through Change
Transitions: Collaboration and Creation through Change
We all have, at one time or another, faced a difficult transition: a major project ending, changing life circumstances, or other things that just make it hard for us to balance our lives. Transitions are hard but what helps is working with other people on something new, different and exciting. The act of just creating eases life’s transitions especially when the collaboration is a labor of love, something that isn’t paid, and is outside our comfort zone. These collaborations help us get to know others and build connections.
I most recently worked on a textile collaboration with artist, Meghan Widger owner of Hills and Thread who I had been following on Instagram. Our conversation about her work and about our project details how two artist can get to know each other, create together, and move through our ever changing lives.
what made you start the work you do today?
As far as I can remember, I’ve always loved creating. But my sewing journey started at age 14. I got really hooked on the show Project Runway and just felt like I wanted to do what the designers did. I felt a spark, like this was something I could be good at. I wanted to learn, so my awesome parents gifted me with a sewing machine. I taught myself to use it and designed my own garments. However my interested shifted from fashion design to quilting, and has been evolving and expanding ever since.
do you have a vision, goal, or destination in the work you do?
My main destination is to some day teach my own workshops. I want to teach people not only the skills and knowledge to sew or paint, but how to enjoy the process and how therapeutic it can be. I’d also like to travel around to display and sell my work at different festivals and shows. Basically I just want to learn, share, and teach.
what did you enjoy about working with me/us?
I enjoyed getting to know a new artist and learning about your Electrography project. Collaborating two completely different skills and talents is such a fun experience. Not only did I learn a lot from you but I also gained a lot of inspiration from this project!
what do you do outside of when you’re not designing/creating?
I spend most of my time creating. If I’m not sewing then I’m painting or making something else. But If I’m not making something then I’m taking care of my plants, practicing yoga, or listening to music/podcasts. I love being outside, reading/writing, and thrift store shopping.
what made you start hills and thread?
Starting Hills and Thread was actually a huge step for me. As an introverted person who used to be painfully shy, I never liked to draw attention to myself and was never one to show off my work. I realized that starting my own business would be constantly challenging me to go outside my comfort zone and, in turn, help me evolve and grow. It took a lot for me to just start posting things I made on social media for exposure, then I was terrified of starting an Etsy shop. But every time you do something that scares you, you take control and the fear loses its power little by little. I decided I wanted to overcome as many fears as possible not only for myself, but to inspire others to do the same.
Just as starting Hills and Thread caused Meghan to leave her comfort zone, working with her and interviewing her helped me do the same. Through our collaboration, I was able to expand my brand and create something new.
What collaborations have you been a part of? How have they fueled your creativity?
The Perpetual You
At The Perpetual You, they believe in choosing, embracing, celebrating, and unleashing the best parts of ourselves – the parts that never change – our Perpetual Selves. They are creating a movement that encourages women to love and share who they already are.
The Perpetual You offers women the tools to create Joy, Ease, Fun & Wealth; the opportunity to connect with like-minded women and form intentional, meaningful relationships; and the space to showcase their creative and/or entrepreneurial talents as part of our makers movement intended to shake up the world.
Read the current issue: http://www.theperpetualyou.com/the-magazine/
Published Article: The Perpetual You – Slow Travel: the Gift of Connecting
I highly recommend taking the time to slow travel. By spending a month in one location, I was able to learn about the culture, make connections and friends, and establish a relationship to the countryside. If everyone could have the opportunity to travel and spend time within a culture, the world would be a wealthier place.
Two summers ago I was accepted into an artist-in-residence program in Greve in Chianti a town in Tuscany, Italy. I was ecstatic to pursue one of my projects to help build my portfolio and repertoire as a professional artist which is something I was not able to do while in college.
I never realized that I could still pursue my dream of working abroad outside a college environment. The residency helped me fulfill that dream.
The residency, La Macina di san Cresci, was a month long. During the month, I worked on my project which incorporated the native flora in the surrounding hills. I have fond memories of roaming the Tuscan hills foraging for edible and non-edible plants and herbs to be used in my project.
The building which housed the program was rebuilt by two artists, who are now the directors. The 900 AD building originally had a church and a parish house, which was converted into the artists’ residence. With support from the town, the artist-duo began the program and started accepting artists.
While in the program, a typical day included long sweltering afternoon walks through the Tuscan hills gathering plant specimens. I would bring them back to the studio which had a well-equipped darkroom – perfect for my artwork.
My evenings were filled with photo making, wine and cheese, and relaxation. I also spent time gaining inspiration from a book on scientific photography, which I’d gotten from the London Museum of Science while visiting a family member just prior to the program.
During the weekends, I made trips into Florence, which was only an hour away. Taking the public transit and riding through the Tuscan hills was quite an inspiring experience. The locals said that one of the best, most inexpensive things to do there was to ride the bus through the different towns.
In Florence, I stopped by the Orto Botanical to identify the plants I had been seeing in the hills. A part of my project was plant identification as my final portfolio pieces were named after the plant used. Through this project, I gained a deep connection to nature and to my surroundings.
Through this project, I gained a deep connection to nature and to my surroundings.
La Macina di san Cresci promoted the “Slow” culture by sponsoring the Slow Movie Contest where directors and filmmakers submit movies on the slow culture. “Slow” culture is a protest movement that contrasts the fast-paced lifestyle of many in the United States and other parts of the world.
From my extended time in Italy, I witnessed a culture that takes time out of its day to slow down, relax, and connect. If we just take time to enjoy our travels whether abroad or even to the nearby park or neighboring town, we may be surprised by the things we learn and the connections we make. Slowing down enriches our lives with experiences, which means our extra time spent is well worth it.
see more photos of kristi’s trip to italy in this month’s magazine.
“Kristi Beisecker is an artist and freelance designer in Massachusetts. In her spare time she creates photograms using electricity and organic materials with analog darkroom processing. She also reads and writes about science and spirituality, composes and performs music and gives spiritual guidance.”
the perpetual you
At The Perpetual You, they believe in choosing, embracing, celebrating, and unleashing the best parts of ourselves – the parts that never change – our Perpetual Selves. They are creating a movement that encourages women to love and share who they already are.
The Perpetual You offers women the tools to create Joy, Ease, Fun & Wealth; the opportunity to connect with like-minded women and form intentional, meaningful relationships; and the space to showcase their creative and/or entrepreneurial talents as part of our makers movement intended to shake up the world.
Read the current issue: http://www.theperpetualyou.com/the-magazine/
Published Article: The Perpetual You – Greve in Chianti
GREVE IN CHIANTI, ITALY – Two summers ago I was accepted into an artist-in-residence program in Greve in Chianti, Italy. I was ecstatic to pursue one of my projects to help build my portfolio and repertoire as a professional artist. While in college, my design track made it harder to study abroad. I also didn’t quite like the idea of paying an extra semester just to catch up. While after college and I won a major international award and I was propelled into the art world. I learned about different ways to carry out your projects through programs, workshops and artist residencies. I never realized that I could still pursue my dream of working abroad outside of college; the residency in Italy helped me fulfill that dream and spent 6-9 months freelancing realizing that dream.
The residency was in Greve in Chianti called, La Macina di san Cresci. I stayed there for a month, carrying out my project, which was related to native flora in the Tuscan hills. I have fond memories of roaming the Tuscan hills foraging edible and non-edible plants and herbs to be used in my project. The building was a renovation project done by two artists themselves; who are now the directors of the residency. With support from the town to turn it into a public communal area the artist-duo began accepting artists to live there. The building was built in 900 AD and had a church and a parish’s house, which was converted into the artist’s residence house.
A typical day: my afternoons where filled with long hot, sweltering walks through the Tuscan hills looking at plant specimens that I could use in my project. I then brought them back to the studio, which had an equipped darkroom – perfect for my artwork. My evenings were filled with photo making, wine and cheese and relaxing. Previous to this trip I stopped in London to visit a family member who took me to a science exhibit at the museum of science where I picked up a book on scientific photography. My evenings were spent reading that book, gaining inspiration and ideas.
During the weekends, I made trips into Florence, which was only an hour away. Taking the public transit and riding through the Tuscan hills was quite an inspiring experience in of itself. The locals said, that one of the best, most, inexpensive things to do there was to ride the bus through the different towns. In Florence, I stopped by the Orto Botanical to identify the plants I had been seeing in the hills. A part of my project was plant identification as my final portfolio pieces were named after the plant used. Through this project, I gained a deep connection to nature and the environment of my surroundings. Those who travel to Tuscany probably encounter these plants through cooking classes.
While there, I learned about the Slow culture, which is a protest movement of the fast-paced world of the United States and other parts of the world. In Italy, the Italians enjoy taking time out of their day (siesta) to slow down, relax and converse. The artist-in-residence center promoted an activity, called the Slow Movie Contest where directors and filmmakers would submit movies on the slow culture. I highly recommend taking the time to slow travel – spending 3+ weeks in one location to learn about the culture, make connections and friends and to establish a relationship to the country. You also gain a deeper retrospection of a certain culture by spending time within it. I definitely feel, if everyone had the opportunity to travel and spend time within a culture, I feel the world would be a different place.
the perpetual you
At The Perpetual You, they believe in choosing, embracing, celebrating, and unleashing the best parts of ourselves – the parts that never change – our Perpetual Selves. They are creating a movement that encourages women to love and share who they already are.
The Perpetual You offers women the tools to create Joy, Ease, Fun & Wealth; the opportunity to connect with like-minded women and form intentional, meaningful relationships; and the space to showcase their creative and/or entrepreneurial talents as part of our makers movement intended to shake up the world.
Read the current issue: http://www.theperpetualyou.com/the-magazine/
Published Articles: JetsetterGypsy – Travel Horoscopes
JetsetterGypsy.com
After three years of living the good life on the road, Amy Jarczynski left her mark on more destinations than the average gal can dream of in a lifetime, accidentally…or… not quite so…missing one too many flights and crossing paths with yet another professional athlete… The time has come to release my experiences from the confines of a select audience, and share them with the world.
Before you embark on your journey this August, make sure to check your travel horoscope. I’ve got you covered right..
Helping you stay one step ahead of the game on your September travels, be sure to read your travel horoscope,..
Heading off to someplace exotic this month and curious to know what’s in the cards? Perhaps a little Dia de..
With the holidays right around the corner and the ever stressful Thanksgiving travel waiting at the end of the month,..
With the holidays here, travel is top of mind for all of us, whether it’s a New Years vacation for..
Are you in for a little post holiday pampering, visiting some family members or maybe just some planning and preparation..
February travel is always filled with so many expectations….the singles are looking for love, the newly dating are looking to..
Published Article: JetsetterGypsy – Guest Post
An Autumn Escape To The Pine and Birch Ranch
on October 15, 2014 at 8:32 am
Recently, I had the opportunity of attending an artist research residency just outside of Ottawa, Canada, which proved to be a great excuse for a fall road trip and a breath of fresh air for a few days.
*Guest Post
The residency, via the Ayatana Artist Research Program, was focused on bio-artists and artists inspired by nature and science and it encouraged hands on research, adventure, experimentation and collaboration between various other artists.
Inspiration by nature was easily achieved by our surroundings at the Pine and Birch Ranch, which is nestled on the banks of the impressive 10-acre Pine Lake in rural Quebec, a half hour from Ottawa, for those who choose to fly *(recommended), or just under an 8 hour, very scenic drive from the NY and Boston metro areas. This time of year was peak season for the Ranch and those adventurous looking to make a road trip, as the fall foliage was spectacular!
Around the ranch we found many unique settings for painting and creative collaboration, whether inside, nestled up to the 18-foot fire place at the Ranch house or in the great outdoors, amongst the horses, cats, dogs and other wild animals who inhabit the ranch. This property was absolutely perfect for our artists’ retreat and also ideal for family reunions and other small group getaways…anybody getting married soon?
One evening, we even ventured out to Wakefield, the nearest town, about 4 miles away to get a bit of change in scenery and check out the local scene. It was a pleasant surprise to see that Wakefield was a quirky, bilingual village boasting some fantastic French country style dining options, Café Chez Eric and Café Pot au Feu, both of which received top accolades from members of our group.
The long ride home, returning from Pine and Birch Ranch provided more inspiration in the multi colored vistas and also served as a great time to reflect on the lovely, relaxing and peaceful retreat I had just finished, not to mention a little wishful thinking that I could return next year, come fall.
Guest Post Written by Kristi Beisecker of KGlyphics
Edited by Jetsetter Gypsy
jetsettergypsy.com
After three years of living the good life on the road, Amy Jarczynski left her mark on more destinations than the average gal can dream of in a lifetime, accidentally…or… not quite so…missing one too many flights and crossing paths with yet another professional athlete… The time has come to release my experiences from the confines of a select audience, and share them with the world.
Published Article: Beautiful World International – Interior Design
Luxury Décor Trends 2016
Besides the recent typical trends in home décor; mid-century, marble and rose gold, black and brass, modern décor, navy and gold as well as wanderlust décor there are more subtle trends that can emphasize your home a bit more. Many of the mentioned themes have a common almost ‘sub-theme’ that can be utilized when designing a space.
For instance, within ‘modern décor’, ‘black and brass’, ‘marble and rose gold’, there’s the theme of geometry coupled with metals, or metal finishes. Taking this sub-trend can create a whole new look.
Another example is within mid-century and wanderlust. Many people who travel go to third-world countries and often pick up inspiration from local craftsman and artists, but why not utilize local crafts into your home, rather than finding something that’s been inspired by it? Using the actual object not only supports the artists and designers, but also provides a unique atmosphere in any room.
- Copper Stackable Boxes – Retail value: $140.95
Take these Copper Stackable Boxes from Novica; the beauty of the Andes and its most famous landmarks inspire the design of these jewelry boxes. The set of four stackable boxes includes scenes from everyday life as well as the glorious Inca city of Macchu Pichu. Angel Franco includes the legendary tumi knife and Wallallo Carwancho, a mighty Inca deity who was then punished for demanding human sacrifices. Another box is adorned with the Raimondi stela of Chavin artistry, and the last one features Lord Wiracocha, the mightiest of all Inca deities. Franco evokes the scenes with fine expertise as he crafts each copper box by hand with bronze details.
- Eclipse Black and White Strip Umbrella – Retail value: $599
Or this ultra chic, modern umbrella from cb2; Chic shelter, crank open and unfurl a modern square shade in classic black and white stripes. Black powder coated aluminum pole/fittings; matching gridiron base and galvanized hardware are all rust-resistant. Spun polyester umbrella shade is two-meters square and can raise/lower/tilt as need be. Iron base is easy to move.
- Artistic Texture – Neiman Marcus– Retail value: $1,500
Another trend that I’ve seen that falls under the ‘artistic’ realm is texture, through abstract painting, watercolor, or other form of art; texture has become huge. To easily achieve texture in a room, you can add a huge abstract panting from places like West Elm, Horchow, and any luxury home décor store or from the artists themselves.
- Macramé – Etsy Retail Value: $148.51
Macramé is a textile knotting technique that was popular in the 1970s but is now making a comeback for a unique décor aspect for any room. If you are looking for distinctive, statement wall art, for that big blank wall that you don’t know what to do with or to cover a shallow closet, consider finding an artist or pre-made macramé curtain. It will bring an unexpected touch of texture into a room.
- Patterns
You can create a chic look instantly with bold, geometric patterns. You can apply a pattern anywhere from the wall itself, to the decorative pillow on the couch, to a small area rug in your living room. One technique that I’ve seen over and over again is using patterns as an accent wall, but also if you are into the ‘boho’ look, you can create a modern, yet bohemian look with a well mix and matched pattern look for your home.
- Calligraphic – GRAHAM AND GREEN Retail Value: £235.00
In addition to the geometric trend, I have seen calligraphic shapes from all elements of home décor. To swooping mid-century lamps, to foil calligraphic quotes printed out large, to swirls in patterns on rugs and other surfaces. Calligraphic elements help relax the atmosphere of the room and create a calming experience.
- Monotone Interiors
While rose gold and metallic finishes are having their spotlight in recent trends, another subtle trend is monotone interiors. Designers have taken one color family and designing an interior with using different shades of that color family. The best I’ve seen are shades of gray with a pop of yellow. Or shades of off-white to help offset a pure white room. It can be done extremely well with a balance of the shades.
If you don’t want to be super-trendy, but still have an up-to-date home, you can look to these above trends to help create a fresh look. Sometimes just following one trend can update a home in more ways than one and still be subtle by it.
Beautiful World International
An international luxury lifestyle media brand and concept. BWI Magazine – The Art of Living Well.
www.bwimagazine.com.
Published Article: Beautiful World International – Grotta Giusti
Grotta Giusti – My Experience
Last May I went to Italy for an artist-in-residency; specifically, La Macina di san Cresci in Greve in Chianti. I wanted to maximized my time there and utilize what was in my surroundings. I had done plenty of research before my time in Tuscany and came across Grotta Giusti. What I loved about this place was that it was a bit off the beaten path, yet fueled by culture and Italian vibes.
Grotta Giusti is located in Monsumano Terme, just east of Pisa in the province of Pistioa, in the heart of Tuscany. On their website they describe the Terme as the “Eighth Wonder” of the world. With its’ majestic stalagmites and masterfully sculpted cave walls, it’s really no wonder that it is called the eighth wonder!
Getting to Grotta Giusti was a voyage in of itself. I had originally planned on just spending the afternoon at the Terme, but then realized a night at the spa wasn’t that much more and felt for the distance I was traveling, I thought a night was better.
Greve in Chianti, was an hour by bus from Florence and it was about an hour from Florence train station to Monsumano Terme. This specific terme was the largest thermal cave in Europe and stretches two hundred meters below the resort.
During my stay I feasted on exceptional, gourmet Tuscan food, relaxed in the massage room and enjoyed a dip in the guest-only thermal pool. It was a nice treat to myself after working long hours for the past several months and a reward for achieving a goal of mine that was both financial and personal.
If you are looking for something that is a bit off the beaten path in Italy during your next trip, be sure to check out Grotta Giusti. I do highly recommend the experience, as it is unique to the country of Italy and you would not find anything else like it anywhere else! Unless you plan to explore the surrounding areas or are on a honeymoon, a night or two is extremely affordable to experience Grotta Giusti and just enough time to spend at the resort.
beautiful world international
An international luxury lifestyle media brand and concept. BWI Magazine – The Art of Living Well.
www.bwimagazine.com.