Sophisticated Spectra

Paul-Albert Besnard: An Emblematic Figure of French Symbolism

June 30, 2023 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett

Paul-Albert Besnard (1849-1934) was a French painter and printmaker known for his contributions to the Symbolist movement. His work spanned a variety of styles and subjects, including portraiture, landscapes, and allegorical works, and his innovative use of color and light showed the influence of Impressionism.

Rome's Culinary Gem Roscioli Opens in New York City

July 12, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

In exciting gastronomic news, the legendary Roman culinary institution, Roscioli, has expanded its operations to New York City. For those with refined tastes, this news is nothing short of a gastronomic delight.

Jacquemus's Marseille: A Unique Vacation Guide Curated by the Designer

Aug. 5, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

Simon Porte Jacquemus, the designer behind the renowned brand Jaсquemus, recently shared a curated list of vacation spots in Marseille on his website. As a native of Salon-de-Provence, a nearby town, Jacquemus knows Marseille like the back of his hand, and his recommendations are far from the usual travel guide fare. Instead, they reveal the places where the locals, the true "Marseillais," like to unwind.

Rome Cavalieri: A Blend of Nostalgic Grandeur and Modern Art

Aug. 23, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Let's chat about the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Once known as the Hilton, this iconic spot might not scream "modern luxury" to every traveler, and its late modernist façade might not make every architecture enthusiast's heart race. But there's one undeniable charm: its breathtaking view of the Eternal City from atop the Monte Mario hill. A throwback to the unapologetic, old-school opulence of the mid-20th century, it's a trip down luxury lane.

The Timeless Allure of Swedish-Italian Screen Siren Anita Ekberg

Sept. 10, 2023 in Models & Actresses Photos by Julian Everett

Anita Ekberg, the unforgettable Swedish-Italian actress who became a global sensation and a symbol of sensuality, remains an enduring figure in classic cinema. Born in Malmö, Sweden, in 1931, Ekberg transitioned from winning beauty pageants to gracing the silver screen, forever etching her name into the annals of film history.

Viviane Sassen: Blending Fashion and Art through Geometry and Abstraction

Nov. 10, 2023 in Photography & Visuals by Charlotte Sinclair

Viviane Sassen, a renowned Dutch artist born in 1972, resides in Amsterdam and has made significant contributions to both the fashion and fine art photography worlds. Her work is distinguished by the use of geometric shapes, frequently abstracting human bodies, showcasing a unique artistic vision that blends personal, editorial, and commercial elements.

"Ripley" Series Captivates with Stunning Italian Locales and Cinematographic Mastery

April 11, 2024 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett

The "Ripley" television series may not have won over every viewer, but its impeccable selection of Italian filming locations and the cinematographic artistry of Robert Elswit, who created a mesmerizing black-and-white visual style, are undeniably noteworthy. For those familiar with Italy, the series offers a delightful sense of recognition with its use of iconic sites like the Pio Monte della Misericordia church in Naples, the Gritti Palace hotel in Venice, and the arch on Via Giulia in Rome. However, the series does not strive for authenticity in every aspect. For instance, Rome's train station is ingeniously represented by the EUR's Palace of Congresses.