Cheryl's Art And Music Guide

I n August 2024, Aerosmith announced they were retiring from touring, due to Steven Tyler 's vocal injury. However, the band will return to the stage for a two-night concert celebration at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on October 29 and November 1. An impressive range of guest artists will join the musicians. Among them are Duff McKagan and Slash of Guns 'N Roses; Heart; Billy Idol ; drummers Kenny Aronoff and Chad Smith; Run DMC ; the Black Crowes; Alice in Chains' Jerry Cantrell and Mike Inez; Andrew Watt ; and Train 's Pat Monahan .  Surprise appearances are anticipated, and a portion of the proceeds are to benefit Tyler's charity, Janie's Fund, which assists girls who have been abused or neglected. Visit California, Dream On: Aerosmith & Friends   for tickets. Another major gig is to take place in Nashville on the seventh of November. That's when Bernie Taupin makes his Grand Ole Opry debut, not to mention his first public musical perfor...

Rocky is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a variety of of events. Besides enjoying the movie's rerelease next month, folks will be able to purchase collectibles like a popcorn bucket depicting Rocky Balboa climbing the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art . Speaking of the museum, one of their recent exhibits was inspired by Rocky . Rising Up offered work made from antiquity to the present, spotlighting stories about Philadelphia's boxing legends,  immigrant neighborhoods, and the fight for the future of public spaces. And on November 13, nearly 45 years after its original unveiling in 1982, the Rocky statue is being rededicated at its new permanent installation site at the top of the art museum steps.  This will be followed by a temporary installation. At the end of November--dates are still tentative--for one week only, the statue will sport a one-of-a-kind knitted boxing ensemble, created by over 60 local knitters and textile artists. The project will feature b...

  Paul Reubens --AKA Pee-wee Herman --began his career at the Groundlings Theatre in Los Angeles. So it's appropriate that Julien's Auctions will present  Paul Reubens' Big Auction    live at the venue at the end of the month.  Bids will be accepted online too, and lots include a piece of art the performer made, using his own handprint as well as ''food'' (made of clay and other materials) from Pee-wee's Playhouse .  This TV show inspired a fan to create a replica of the Clocky character. It will be auctioned off on the 28th of October, as will posters from the ''Big Adventure'' movie and items from the star's personal collection, such as high school ephemera; bow ties and tiki shirts; a group of salt shakers (ranging from the Village People to a squirrel); and an assortment of seahorses, made of glass. ceramic, and plastic.  Highlights from the auction will be displayed at the Groundlings Theatre from October 14-28. This will b...

This weekend's Nor'easter has led to a lot of cancellations. Among them are two of Ed-Sheeran 's concerts. The singer was to play last night and this evening at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.  Many more entertainers had been set to play Oceans-Calling in Ocean City, Maryland . The entire three-day festival (September 25-27), was scrapped. The line-up included Ludacris , the Goo Goo Dolls, Hootie & the Blowfish, My Morning Jacket, Everlast, Shaggy, Liz Phair, Hanson , and the Dave Matthews Band .  Last night, AC/DC was not able to bring their Power Up tour to East  Rutherford, New Jersey. The MetLife-Stadium concert has been postponed. The new date is the second of October. Doors open at 5:30 for the 7 p.m. performance. 

Ever hear of the Kenbassadors ? The collection began last year when Mattel decided to focus on men who have made a huge cultural impact (much like Ken , who is now 65).  LeBron James was first. The latest Signature Kenbassador doll is Lenny Kravitz . Lenny is being honored for his career as a singer, songwriter, musician, producer, actor and designer. So is his Blue Electric Light tour. Another performer was recognized by Mattel during the summer. The  Barbie Signature Miley Cyrus doll celebrates Miley's work as a musician and actress, as well as her advocacy for self-expression.  Miley, who grew up playing with Barbie dolls, said she appreciates the attention to details ''down to the shape of the shoe, leather jacket, the belt, hair dimension, and sunglasses.'' Visit https://creations. mattel.com/products/lebron- james-barbie-kenbassadors- doll-hrm33 to check them out. 

Studio Trikken is a Swedish-based graphic design studio run by John Schulisch and Johan Elmehag . They are also developing their own projects, special collaborations, and creative outlets. That includes a new book which Johan told the Art and Music Guide about. AAMG: Banana Art Book  would also make a good exhibit, especially with over 100 artworks to choose from. JE: We are looking into that, but nothing is set yet.  AAMG: Who are some of the book's contributors? JE: The artists come from all over the world! There's a wide range, from art students to renowned design studios. We aimed for a variety in style, technique, and type of participant. At the same time, we looked for people whose approach brought us joy. There's a certain playfulness to the work, a sense of ease and creative freedom.   AAMG: What are some of the most unusual creations? Was the actual fruit used in any of them?  JE: One participant drew 100 bananas, using a banana peel in the process ...

On September 14, Bob Mackie died. The 87-year-old, whose clothes were seen on concert stages as well as TV productions, was remembered by a slew of celebrities. Among them was Elton John , who considered the designer's costumes to be works of art. Cher and Goldie Hawn called Mackie a ''sweet prince'' and Carol Burnett believed  her friend to be a genius, adding on social media that ''sadness doesn't come close to how I feel.''  Brooke Shields said she appreciated the beauty Bob brought into the world, while Sabrina Carpenter wrote she felt lucky to have met him.  Bob, who was also known for designing collectible Barbies for Mattel , was the subject of a book and movie.  In 2024, a documentary, Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion , was released. Three years earlier, a book called The-Art-of-Bob-Mackie , was published. 

 '' Write what you know'' is a popular expression. In Daniel Root 's case, he photographed what he knew. The artist has lived in New York's East Village for decades, so it was easy for him to chronicle the changes here and on the Lower East Side, which is virtually next door.   The results are in a new book called The-East-Village-Then-And- Now , and the cover features a photo of Madonna . She was ''then'' on St. Mark's Place, strolling in a scene from the movie Desperately Seeking Susan .  Daniel examines numerous blocks--as they appeared in the eighties versus nowadays. Often the site is difficult to recognize, thanks to an abundance of new buildings and foliage.  There's not much about the old art scene, but it is believed as many as 176 galleries were established here. Fun was one of the first to crop up in the eighties, and supported the likes of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Fab 5 Freddy, Futura 2000 , and Kenny Scharf ....

Form er President George W. Bush has created 16 new paintings to mark the anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks.  Bush took up painting after leaving office, and his latest pieces are on view at the Bush presidential center through the end of September.  The center, which is in Dallas, Texas, says it is a way to honor and reflect on the courage, sacrifice and resilience following the attacks.   There is a permanent Nation Under Attack exhibit as well. It includes twisted steel from the World Trade Center and a bullhorn used by Bush when he visited the site.

Tim-Pope has become a Sunday Times best-seller in the UK. As a music video director in the eighties, Tim assisted acts such as The Cure (the band's frontman, Robert Smith , penned the foreword to his new book, I Shoot Rock Stars ), Wham! , Hall & Oates , and Queen . So he had a front-row seat to the era's excesses and egos. Nigel-Dick is another director who has penned his memoirs. Among the artists he has collaborated with are Elton John, Britney Spears, Celine Dion, Def Leppard, Yes, Cher , and Toto .  Prior to that, Nigel worked as a salesman, waiter, and motorcycle messenger. He originally planned to become an architect. His book is called Music Video Mischief , and it is to be published on September 15th. 

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 ,...

National Vinyl Day was yesterday, the 12th of August, but a library and public plaza in Rockville, Maryland, will host their festivities on Saturday.  National Vinyl Day 2026 is taking place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Rockville Memorial Library and Rockville Town Square . The event kicks off outside with percussionist Dee Hale , offering an introduction to Brazilian drumming traditions. This interactive session covers the fundamentals of batucada, the driving rhythmic style found in Rio de Janeiro's famous carnival.     Attendees can also purchase records or check out hip-hop demonstrations as well as  arts and crafts.  Teenagers can participate in a silent disco party and K-pop dance workshop. Options for younger kids include storytime and a dance party.  There is no charge, and reservations are not required.  Visit https://www. montgomerycountymd.gov/node/ 20286 for further details.

In 1986, Keith Haring decided to make his imagery accessible to a broader audience--and more affordable than what they'd pay at an art gallery. So he opened the Pop Shop in New York, which featured goods like prints, posters, and apparel.  The store remained open for many years after Haring's death (and far longer than a branch in Tokyo). One of Haring's collectors, Julia Markus , has teamed up with Doyle to sell Pop Shop memorabilia. Lots include a gold Radiant Baby pin, lithographic calendar with leaping figures, and a radio embellished by a three-eyed smiley face. There are also some pieces by other artists, including Kenny Scharf and Ronnie Cutrone .    Folks can see the works at Doyle New York (where Markus will join a panel discussion on August 17) and Beverly Hills through the 20th of August. The 20th is also when the auction ends.

In 1969, Ken Bray was a jewelry vendor at Woodstock . On August 9, the silversmith returns to Bethel Woods. He will be at the Bethel Woods Center For The Arts for two events: a golf cart tour. which costs $19.69 (like the year of the festival) and a free symposium at 3 p.m. Another special discussion, which is free but requires an RSVP, boasts Henry Diltz and Bob Gruen , on stage together for the first time. It runs from 6-8 p.m. on the 11th of August. The photographers, who were at Woodstock , are to be interviewed by music journalist Rona Elliot . Bob wrote on Instagram that he was a young, happy camper while Henry was the official photographer.  It's all part of Anniversary Week at the museum in Bethel, New York, marking 57 years since Woodstock . There are several related exhibitions as well.

On this day in 1928, Andy Warhol was born. A gallery in St. Petersburg, Florida, will celebrate tomorrow night.  The man who came up with the idea for the Warhol Birthday & Pop Art Party 4.0 is Luke Heath , a pop artist himself.  As the name suggests, this is the fourth time the Floridarama Gallery is hosting the event.  Over thirty artists (Luke among them) are participating, and the exhibit will be up through the end of the month. Friday's event features interactive Warhol-inspired screen tests, live music and art demonstrations, and immersive installations. It is free to attend.