Cheryl's Art And Music Guide

Propstore has teamed up with Aardman to present a landmark live auction on September 24. Bidding opened today.  Over 200 pieces are being offered, showcasing the studio's 50-year history. Nearly every Aardman production is represented-- Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Chicken Run , and Morph among them.  Each lot started at 100 pounds, with options such as limited edition prints, stop-motion puppets and signed scripts.  One can even visit the studio and have lunch with Aardman co-founder and creative director Sir Peter Lord . Some of his art is also available.  Proceeds will help talent Aardman develop talent initiatives. Visit https://bit.ly/ aardman50thauction to check out the lots. 

On the 18th and 19th of September, New Yorkers can see dozens of life-sized buffalo puppets. They will be joined by marching bands, dance troupes, and other entertainers.  Return of the Buffalo: Tatanka Owe Akupi, in Downtown Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan, is the brainchild of playwright/director Amir Nizar Zuabi , in partnership with the Lenape and Lakota communities.  The aim is to pay tribute to the animals and their resilience. It is also a salute to Native peoples and their conservationist allies, credited with bringing the buffalo back from the edge of extinction. Among the better known performers will be Laurie Anderson and Rhiannon Giddens . Https:// stannswarehouse.org will feature announcements about other participants soon. Information about puppeteer training sessions can be found at this website as well.  It is free to attend, and no tickets are required. 

 L ast year in Frederick, Maryland, a Wizard of Oz gala was held. It was to benefit the Delaplaine Arts Center . This time, the theme is Ancients-and-Aliens . The fundraiser is set for the 26th of September. Among the attractions are a DJ, dancing, catering, open bar, silent auction, and viewing of their exhibition galleries.  The latter includes the Crib Exhibition . In this new show, opening on September 5, participants were invited to submit proposals focusing on the topic of mental health and mental health risk by utilizing premade cribs from local artist Jim Roberts .  The fee for the gala is $125, and attendees can dress as they please, ''from casual wear to costume,'' according to Marketing & Membership Department manager Jackie Clark .

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is about to turn 100. To celebrate, the next event is going to have a hundred inflatables.  What's more, a new book about the parade's history will come out in October.    Lets-Have-a-Parade is the title.  Writer Kim Keller told the Art and Music Guide some photos go back to the first few years of the parade.  The book also has ''quite a bit of information on how balloons and floats were made; how they evolved and were made bigger and more complex over the years with innovations in engineering. ''There are spreads detailing musical performances, Broadway show performances, the Rockettes , celebrities, and more . . . plus behind-the-scenes peeks at the Macy's employees and volunteers who make it all happen.'' In fact, Kim got to speak with some current employees who ''work 18 months ahead for each parade--each with a very specific role to play.'' 

Elvis Presley was fond of peanut butter and banana sandwiches, as many are aware. Other favorites included split pea soup, tomato fritters, pork chops with sauerkraut, chocolate soda, and buttermilk biscuits. In fact, there's a new book of recipes, and the press release promises it will shake your taste buds up. The-Elvis-Presley-Cookbook , which is packed with almost a hundred recipes, also features memorable moments such as Elvis and Priscilla's wedding reception. Another book showcases the star's fashion legacy. There are over 150 pieces, courtesy of the Graceland Archives , and they include belts, capes, boots, jewelry and jumpsuits. Elvis-Dressed-to- Rock , with rare sketches and familiar photos, was written by costume historian Karan Feder .

'Kawaii' means 'cute' or 'adorable' in Japan. It is also part of a new  title from Tuttle Publishing and illustrator Sayo Koizumi . How to Draw Kawaii Cats has advice on tools and techniques and how to realistically depict cat shapes.  There are hundreds of examples and tips, and all sorts of styles are encouraged. Those who are happy with the results can go on to learn about making cat-themed gifts, framing the artwork, and posting their creations online.  Sayo has illustrated numerous books including I Want to Go Home to a House With Cats and All The Important Things, I Learned From Cats .  She has also contributed to magazines and shown in art galleries. And her designs have been used for stickers, calendars, and diaries.  As for canine creations, Colorado's Salida Council for the Arts will soon present the second annual Dog Days Art Show and Fido Fashion Show . It's to be held on the 22nd of August, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., at Box of Bubbles ,...