It's not a man pageant!" someone exclaims as the nominees for One Man Minneapolis huddle beneath the Pantages stage before the evening's big event. At this, the rest of the guys laugh and raise their voices in raucous banter as they sip their protein shakes. Being one of the lone ladies in the room, I'm picking up on an increasing testosterone level, which minutes before the show is hitting the enter-at-your-own-risk zone.
[Some of the One Man semi-finalists before the show]
The competition to name the one man "who represents the best of the Twin Cities" has battled this criticism since its inception last year. But founder Scott Mayer and his right-hand man Mitch Kelly have crafted an event that, despite having some serious potential as coming off hokey, showcases a bunch of altruistic, community-driven dudes as well as a wide spectrum of local charities. It's not just about a bunch of pretty boys, despite the good-looking gents among the competition's 20 finalists.
"It was way cooler than I thought it'd be," 2009 contestant Dave Michela said. "I thought it'd be some kind of tool fest, but it wasn't."
"There's a great energy, a great vibe," concurred Jatin Setia (representing Twin Cities Film Fest). "It doesn't matter who wins."
In fact, in talking to contestants both past and present, it became clear that the guys were having just as much fun hanging out with each other as they did having the chance to give a voice to the charities they support. For Jeffrey Cloninger, lending supporting to his charity, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), it was a deeply personal experience; Cloninger has lived with diabetes since his mid-twenties. "It has been a great way to connect with the charity," he said.
Top five finalist Brian Gioelli (representing the YMCA) echoed this sentiment, saying, "Only one person wins, but we all have the chance to talk about the charities."
[Finalist Brian Gioelli in the fitness challenge]
The event itself, held at the historic Pantages Theatre, had a Dating Game-meets-variety show format, with the contestants first going through a Q&A challenge before the final five were announced. From there, they went onto to more questions, a series of outfit changes (with day looks provided by Elsworth and tuxes from savvi Formalwear), and a hilarious "fitness" challenge involving the dudes attempting to knock over bottles with a ball tied around their waist (though it wasn't as dirty as it sounds).
[Lucy Michelle performing "Poker Face"]
In between, hosts Christiana Clark and Ann Michels entertained with an Elton John song-and-dance and wink-wink double entendres directed toward the male-dominated stage. They were joined by local comedienne Jodie Maruska and singer-songwriter Lucy Michelle (she of the Velvet Lapelles), who regaled us with a darling cover of Lady Gaga's "Poker Face" on ukulele.
[The One Man finalists]
In the end, the dapper Bill Tamlyn (representing MN Reading Corps) took home the crown - er, title. But this isn't the end for the rest of the guys. This year, Mayer is having the entire group work together on the winner's project. And as Gioelli put it, "We are all One Man Minneapolis." We'll second that.
All photos by Stephen Stephens for Digital Crush Photo. Check out more One Man Minneapolis photos at DigitalCrushPhoto.com.Jahna Peloquin is the Fashion Editor for l'etoile magazine and a freelance writer and stylist based out of Minneapolis.
This weekend, as usual, is delightfully crammed with more cool events than you can shake a stick at. From awesome art openings to live music experiences and even a couple of highly anticipated outdoor festivals, you'll be hard-pressed to find a good reason to stay home. It seems each year the Twin Cities steps it up a notch, and by the initial intel, this summer is on its way to being the best yet. See you out and about!
xo-l'étoile
Photo by Eric Eul for l'étoile 2007
ALSO THIS WEEK ON L'ETOILE
l'etoile says goodbye to longtime writer, Lacey Pripc Hedtke
It seems all those years gettin' creative with Play-Doh paid off for Portland-based artist, Meredith Dittmar. Her elaborately designed artwork is already a visual treat, but after we realized it's crafted entirely out of clay, well, color us impressed! The amazing sculpturess uses Premo polmer clay, wire, resins, fiberglass and spray paint to create “human-animal-plant-energy amalgams” that tackle the themes of meta perspective, technology, biology and mathematics. Her subjects are often found musing in underground/underwater worlds of intricate diagrams, color-rich designs and chimera-esque landscapes. The clay techie has been featured in numerous art books and journals – including NYLON, Hi-Fructose, and ROJO – and dabbles in commercial illustration and clay and stop motion film. Think Wallace and Gromit, but on an acid trip!
@First Amendment Arts 1101 Stinson Blvd Minneapolis
Fri 12-8pm and Sat 10am-5pm / Free
The bros at BRLSQ are kick-startin’ the summer with a kick ass sale! This weekend, the crew has cleaned out their closets to bring you some cool swag they just don’t have room for. Stop by the studio for sweet sales on BRLSQ loot, including one-of-a-kind paper, vintage Life Sucks Die stickers and mags, old CDs and LPs, swanky office furniture, vintage art, test prints and more. In addition, they’ll be hosting a raffle in which you can win giant gift packs, exclusively put together by our Burlesque favies. Don’t miss out on this uncommon shot to get your paws on a big pile of BRLSQ goodness!
AAXI: A Decade of Aesthetic Apparatus, One Year Late
@ MCAD 2501 Stevens Ave. S. Minneapolis
6pm / Free
Even if you don't recognize the name Aesthetic Apparatus, odds are you’ve seen their work. The local screen printing duo, comprised of artists Dan Ibarra and Michael Byzewski, is behind the logo of the Triple Rock Social Club, the monsters on the walls at the 501 Club, gig posters for artists local and national, including The Hold Steady and Grizzly Bear, and big timers such as Burton Snowboards and Capitol Records. Not bad for a couple of high school friends whose collaboration started out as a joke in 1983: attempting to make the dumbest posters possible for a friend’s band. In the spirit of retrospect, “AAXI: A Decade of Aesthetic Apparatus, One Year Late” highlights eleven years worth of Aesthetic Apparatus limited-edition posters, as well as an assortment of random studio artifacts accumulated over the years. To name a few: leftover bits of wire from their first studio and the piece of paper on which the pair wrote their first business plan, "Low art. High prices!" We bet their tardiness will be well worth it. On view through June 27th.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
FRIDAY MAY 28TH
Jerome Emerging Printmakers Exhibition
@ Highpoint Center for Printmaking 912 Lake St W Minneapolis
6:30-9pm / Free
We'll admit, we're kind of obsessive followers of the Jerome Emerging Printmakers' Residency program. Besides being totally jealous of the recipients' perks – 9 months access to Highpoint's fully armed printshop studio and dough for art supplies, just to name a few – we know that the artists featured are beacons that local art lovers will surely be honing in on. Catch an exhibition of the latest three recipients: Katinka Galanos, Miles Mendenhall and Justin Terlecki – printmaking engineers and innovative artists du jour. Enjoy refreshments, meet the artists and get ready to be wowed.
Bonus: As if a Jerome Residency wasn't enough, recipient Miles Mendenhall is also holding it down for the Twin Cities as the local contestant on Bravo's latest reality competition, “Work of Art!” Don't miss the epic premiere party for the show on June 9th at SooVAC. Deets to come!
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
Artwork by Miles Mendenhall
FRIDAY MAY 28TH
Zoo Animal CD Release
@ 7th St Entry 701 1st Ave N Minneapolis
9pm / 18+ / $6
Zoo Animal's hazy, grunge-pop is the kind you'd expect to hear in a '90s indie art flick. You know, something like High Art or Empire Records. Their sound is a puddle of lazily sung lyrics, watery bass lines, minimalist melodies and twangy rock, with nods to Cat Power and Mazzy Star. For a band whose name invokes notions of exotic & feral creatures, the trio and their music are relatively tame. But don't get us wrong, tame doesn't NOT equal boring. Members Tim, Holly and Thom produce catchy, charismatic and ultimately grooveable beats. Join the minimal rockers as they celebrate their sophomore CD release featuring sets from Red Pens, His and Her Vanities and Hildur Victoria. And please, don't feed the animals. But we're sure they wouldn't argue if you bought them a beer.
Shake it at Bedlam’s monthly dance party! Featuring BRLSQ & DJ Shannon Blowtorch in what promises to be another epic night of sweaty, glorious grinding (and probably some cabaret-inspired fabulousness). Come for the best DJs in town and stay for the Late Night Happy Hour from 10-midnight, featuring the Bedlam’s $5-or-less menu! What could you possibly object to?
First, get your paws on mom’s many stacks of old photos. Second, find the oldest possible one of yourself. Third, retake and remake! Those are the guidelines for ZeFrank.com’s “Young Me, Now Me.” With the help of many contributors, Zefrank has pulled together tons of old and new photos (staged the same and placed right up next to each other!) for us to admire. From moms and babies to boy scouts and big messes to grown men on toy scooters, these photos will make you laugh, cry and want to try to do it yourself. Hilar!
@Memory Lanes and Flashback Café 2520 26th Avenue South Minneapolis
Outdoor shows at 3pm / Free / All Ages Indoor shows at 10pm / Free /21+
This weekend PBR, Surly, Monster, Jameson and The Current have teamed up with Memory Lanes Bowling Alley to bring you a musical block party blowout that will melt your mind! Saturday, spend your day in the sun with the sweet sounds of Skoal Kodiak, Gay Witch Abortion, No Bird Sing, and many more. Sunday will round out with more music, straight from locals Halloween, Alaska, Lucy Michelle & The Velvet Lapelles, Black Blondie, The Evening Rig, and tons more. Ian from “Drinking with Ian” hosts this two-day long musical mash-up, complete with dunk tanks, drinking games and photo shoots. Plus, step inside each night for 21+ parties with drinks, DJ Shannon Blowtorch, Red Pens, and Le Cirque Rouge Cabaret & Burlesque). You will NOT want to miss out on this weekend of top notch tuneage.
Cover Story: Master Book Bindings from the Collection
@ Minneapolis Institute of Arts 2400 3rd Avenue S. Minneapoilis
Regular museum hours / Free
From special guest writer Paul D. Dickinson, who insists you see this exhibit!:
Perhaps you have heard people talk about rare and valuable books. Well, the MIA has an upcoming exhibit that shows just how beautiful a book can really be. As a long time book collector and dealer, I wasn't even slightly prepared for what I saw. This is an elite selection from the museum's impressive collection of these unique book covers. Most of these are from French bookbinders, who have a tradition of designing one of a kind book covers for one of a kind artist books. The show highlights amazing handmade bindings by Henri Mercher, Charles de Samblanx, J. Anthoine Legrain, Henri Blanchetiere, George Crette and Henri Creuzevault. The covers relate to the story and theme of the books, including books that feature the art of Picasso and Miro. Designed with Moroccan leather, elaborate tooling and gilding, they really need to be seen to be believed. Runs today through October 31st. -Paul D. Dickinson
@The Nomad World Pub 501 Cedar Ave. S. Minneapolis
8pm / 21+ / $8
Calling all hip-hop lovers and PBR drinkers, this one’s for you! This Saturday, Westbank’s Nomad World Pub is bringing you one of Doomtree’s finest: Emcee and rhyme master Sims. Lucky for us, this independent, hard hitting hip-hopper will be warming up for his Soundset performance at the Nomad, by tearing up the pub with his own batch of smooth rhymes and fresh beats. Joined by the level lyrics of Seattle’s own Macklemore, you music lovers (and Sunday Soundsetters!) won’t want to miss out!
Our favorite dance party is back! The badass boys of Attitude City are at it again with their monthly installation of music and mayhem. Join the DJ duo for a night of delicious dance beats and Clubhouse Jager’s tasty cocktails. Not only is it free, but we guarantee that you’ll have an awesome time mingling (and sweating) amongst some of Minneapolis’ finest.
Bros of Dinkytown, step aside, it’s time for everyone’s favorite (and only?) monthly, mustache and muscle-inspired dance party. Sip the latest Menergy Drink and dance your you-know-whats off to the usual (read: pulsating and homoerotic) menergetic beats of “mechanical machismos” Bach 666, The Nightstalker and Sweet Talk Radio (Ken Hannigan of Anthem Heart). Time Squid will also be returning to create some more Andy Warhol “Screen Test”–esque video remixes of party guests. Serious Manplicants only (sorry, couldn’t resist).
The Alpha Centauri w/ Les Ourses and Colonial Watts
@331 Club 331 13th Avenue NE Minneapolis
8pm / 21+ / Free
You probably know about the Alpha Centauri by now, but in case you don’t, here’s a quick overview: a dynamic local quartet, featuring breathtaking vocal interplay between Linnea Mohn and Lance Conrad and songs composed so intelligently and with such intricate subtlety you’re liable to forget about that drink you’re holding (which is kind of what a good band makes you do, anyway). Experience the sound at the 331 this Saturday, along with Les Ourses and Colonial Watts.
We’re all guilty of belting out our favorite tunes in front of the bathroom mirror from time to time, but this Sunday’s music pick, Florence + The Machine, was actually discovered that way. After a night of one too many cocktails, London born-and-raised Florence Welch followed Mairead Nash (of the tres-cool U.K. DJs/promoters Queens of Noize) into the “loo” and sang her some Etta James. The rest, as they say, was history – with history being her debut album, Lungs, reaching number one on the UK charts, and on this side of the ocean, a song in the trailer for “Eat, Pray, Love” and a single on the soundtrack for Eclipse, the newest Twilight installment (admit it, you’ve had it pre-ordered on iTunes for weeks). Fiery, eccentric (she’s been known to perform in chainmail suits and the like), and with an Aretha Franklin-big voice, Florence and her Machine -- a 7-piece band/collective frequently guest-starring her close friends -- craft whimsical, sometimes cheeky narratives inspired by everything from Greek mythology to art to heartbreak. Featuring a mishmash of sounds, including harps, choirs, drums, elevator shafts, bits of metal, sighing, stamping, and delightfully bizarre electronic wailing, Lungs is nothing short of exhilarating – a soaring, fantastical, Gothic fairytale of an experience.
@ Canterbury Park 1100 Canterbury Road Shakopee, MN
11am / All Ages / $35
The next time someone tries to tell you hip-hop is dead, tell them to take a trip down to Canterbury Park Memorial Day Weekend. The third annual Soundset, a culmination of the best hip hop artists of our time presented by Minneapolis' empirical label, Rhymesayers, is set to go down Sunday at Canterbury with ten raptastic hours of hip hop, b-boy battles, breakdancing, live DJs, a low-rider car show, skateboard demos, and plenty of awesome performances by a bevy of local and national artists including Atmosphere, Murs, Redman & Method Man, Del, Hieroglyphics, Souls of Mischief, Brother Ali, P.O.S, Eyedea & Abilities, Dessa, Ice Rod, Man.i.fest and way more than we can possibly list here. The fest is totally kid friendly, so bring your young’ns down for a rap spectacular on this lovely holiday weekend!
Bonus:After party at First Ave featuring Z-Trip, Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, BK-One, The Radio Do Canibal All-Stars, Jimmy 2 Times, Plain Ole Bill, Mike 2600, and Wezz Winship!
TUESDAY JUNE 2ND
JagerCon: Sci-Fi Tuesdays
@ Clubhouse Jager 923 Washington Avenue N. Minneapolis
Every Tuesday 10 p.m. / 21+ / Free
Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!
Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.
JUN 1: The Neverending Story
Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Tara Sloane, Lauren Gantner, Natalie Gallagher, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin
For the past two years, writer Lacey Prpić Hedtke has been a staple at l'étoile, helping bring the good word of art, music, style and culture in the Twin Cities to the eyes and ears of our readers. A quirky and talented lass if there ever was one, Lacey has infused a fun and interesting perspective into our "pages" with her tireless involvement within the community and her awesome artsy affiliations. But all great things must come to an end. Lacey is leaving our little group of volunteer art instigators to focus more directly on her own creative work -- she's even scored an Artist Initiative Grant from the MN State Arts Board -- and we couldn't be more proud. We love Lacey and miss her already, but we surely haven't see the last of this one.
Lacey granted us an interview about why she's leaving and what's next. We expect to see big things from this gifted gal!
You've written for l'étoile for two years and we're so sad to see you go! But, we're also happy for you! Tell our readers a bit about what you've been doing over the past couple years and why you're leaving.
Well, I got my Masters of Library and Information Science. I got a dog. I started teaching Alternative Photo Classes. I moved to Minneapolis from St. Paul, made a few zines, started a blog, Now That We're Being Honest..., joined the editorial board of Information for Social Change Journal and am on the editorial board of the North American branch of German library journalLIBREAS Library Ideas, I'm a co-chair for the Miriam Braverman Memorial Prize from the Progressive Librarians Guild, I became a sex educator at the Smitten Kitten and a grant writer atPlanned Parenthood. I want to buy a house so I can build a darkroom. I made some tintypes for Nature Noir at the Mahan Gallery, learned to letterpress, and tabled at the Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago and Twin Cities Zine Fests, the local one of which I help to produce. NOW can you see why I'm leaving l'etoile? Ah!
Photo by Stephen Stephens
Your art is getting lots of accolades as of late! What's on the horizon?
I got an Artist Initiative Grant from the MN State Arts Board to digitize my great-grandfather's negatives, slides, scrapbooks and telegrams and make tintypes on the Iron Range, where his archive hails from. My tintypes are part of mnartists.org and Springboard for the Arts Community Supported Artbatch this year. I'm learning the wet plate collodion process so I can be a traveling Civil War-era photographer. My work will be at Bounce Bash to help raise money for artists' health care. I'm in a band called Bla Bla Blacksheep, and our album is almost done. We've got a concertina, guitar, harmonica, drums, shakers, glockenspiels and kid's toys. The Blank Line Collective found my Likes/Dislikes zine at the Chicago Underground Library, which inspired a performance based on it.
Lacey Hedtke, Cromniomancy, 10 x 10 inches, dryplate tintype, 2010
How much fun have you had working for l'étoile? What were some of the highlights?
It's been really fun to tell everyone about the millions of amazing things going on and the people doing them. I really loved helping with the Paper Hearts valentine's day party at Rogue Buddha, hanging out with the l'etoile-ites, and reading what the other creative ladies and gentleman had written that week.
Your perspective helped clue us in on the DIY scene in the Twin Cities, and gave us the inside scoop on numerous counter culture events and groups. How do you think that scene has evolved over the past couple years?
A lot of places closed before the Republican National Convention (the Belfry, which I was a collective member of, Jack Pine), and now Arise! is closing and changing. I think people in the community are starting to feel the void of places that provided resources like community and art spaces, zine libraries, free food and classes, and anything else people wanted, and are taking it into their own hands to continue the Twin Cities the tradition of radical DIY spaces and collectives . Now we're getting Boneshaker Books and a new infoshop out of the ashes of Arise, the Bedlam is getting more and more appreciated, we've got the Experimental College of the Twin Cities, and Reading Rickshawis pedaling into town.. I'm really excited about everything that's beginning and enduring.
You famously dated the Twin Cities most recognizable artist, Scott Seekins, for a portion of your time at l'etoile (artsy street cred!). Can you tell us, does Scott sleep in his suit?
Hehehe..maybe if he falls asleep while watching a movie! My lips are sealed.
If there's any sign the local fashion industry is alive and well, it's when it becomes self-sustaining. Believe it or not, there once was a time when Voltage: Fashion Amplified was the be-all, end-all opportunity for local designers to show their lines (in addition to boutique Cliché, long a seller and supporter of locally-produced fashion). Now, with Voltage acting as a signature event under the umbrella that has expanded into non-profit organization MNfashion, more and more designers are making their own statement in the local fashion scene - from conception to execution, and from production to promotion. Not to mention sewing, sewing, sewing!
[Look by Dawson; Image by Adam Reyna]
Today, many freshly-graduated design students don’t wait wide-eyed for opportunity to come to them - they make it happen for themselves. Leading that charge is the Minneapolis Fashion Initiative, a collaboration between four enterprising local designers (Emily Bryngelson, Amanda Chaffin, Niki English and Kathryn Sterner) and a jewelry designer/stylist (Andrea Oseland) - all of which have been selling at local boutique Cliché beginning as recently as last fall. The four presented their spring/summer 2010 collections in a group show, Calamity!, at the Lab Theater last Thursday evening.
[Look from Cliché; Image by Adam Reyna]
Kicking off the show was that fashion incubator itself, Cliché, showing a selection of styled looks from the national brands lining their racks. Denim made an impact (in the form of cutoffs and a sweet mini-dress) coupled with sheer blacks and wide-brimmed straw hats - a must-have accessory of the season.
[Look by Dawson; Image by Rod Hasse]
Next up, Amanda Chaffin's line Dawson hit the runway with a perfectly-styled pastel-print romper, with super-'70s round sunglasses and wide-brimmed woven hat. The St. Kate's 2009 grad (and former intern to Amanda Christine) showed an increasingly polished and cohesive collection. Some of the pieces were a little on the basic side - after all, why buy a locally-designed top you could easily find at American Apparel for half the price? The point of local design, besides supporting locally-made items, is for the special-ness factor. But with her incorporation of some interesting design elements (the twist-tie at the top of the shorts romper, draped ivory pants with pleating going the entire way around the waistline) into wearable, sellable pieces, Chaffin shows she's moved beyond "recent grad" status to be one to watch in local design.
[Look by Dawson; Image by Adam Reyna]
Oh, and did we mention, she did swimwear? Yes, and not only swimwear (a tricky item for a designer to tackle), but statement-making swimwear featuring a lovely floral print and interesting cutout details. Love that she did cover-ups to make it a complete look.
[Look by Kathryn V; Image by Adam Reyna]
Next up we have Kathryn V by Kathryn Sterner. The designer first seen at last fall's Scene-A-Sota fashion show has come a long way - her designs are increasingly sophisticated and polished, not to mention cohesive and wearable. In her spring line, she incorporated some interesting textile prints to add some interest, and a few cute details (a faux-peplum look on the vests, and a top ruffle to an otherwise fairly basic but excellently-fitted strapless jumper). As is the case with many fresh-faced designers, Sterner's line lacked a definitive aesthetic, but we can only hope that continues to be developed.
[Look by Tender Cuts; Image by Rod Hasse]
The highlight of the night when it came to execution, uniqueness, wearability and styling, was Tender Cuts. I've been a supporter of designer Emily Brygelson since I first saw her designs show up at Cliché last fall before the designer had even graduated from design school at the U of M. (I even wore one of her designs from that collection to this show.) Her spring line further exhibited her ability to beautifully construct garments, her impressive adaptability in creating separates, and an increasingly-strengthened aesthetic that had her models styled with adorable animal ears and knee socks. The jackets were particularly impressive, something most designers hesitate to tackle until well into their design careers.
[Look by Tender Cuts; Image by Rod Hasse]
The collection was perfectly spring, in a pastel color palette with varying textures and patterns. This is exactly how I imagine dressing all spring - and summer. (Minus the animal ears, of course.)
[Look by Niki English; Image by Rod Hasse]
Ending the show with a dramatic finale was Niki English. English perhaps has the longest design history, having been carried at Cliché for some time now. The collection comprising edgy zippered jackets (a strength of English), leggings, skirts, tops and dresses in shiny, slinky fabrics. While it was easily the most dramatic collection of the night, so much black and slate gray seemed a little dark for spring. Despite their intended dramatic impact, her pointy-shoulder minidresses literally fell a little flat, points dropping in odd directions, and by now, the bold-shoulders look popular last fall felt a little dated. But dug the elastic leg pieces English made to add to the impact of the line.
[Look by Niki English; Image by Rod Hasse]
Where English shone most brightly was with looks such as her draped and pleated pants, paired with a crop top and sleeveless vest, showing the designer does indeed have her finger on the pulse of the moment. Though English clearly aimed to show less ready-to-wear pieces than the other designers, it would've been nice to see some of the more wearable pieces in her collection, such as these, that still incorporate her signature look. After the show, English told us she was heading to New York for the summer and fall to intern at Zac Posen. (We wish her luck, despite the fact that she certainly doesn't need it!)
These designers were smart to bond together - five heads are better than one when it comes to taking on such an endeavor. Calamity! presented a sure sign that the local fashion industry is alive and well. Jahna Peloquin is the Fashion Editor for l'etoile magazine and a freelance writer and stylist based out of Minneapolis.
All photos by Rod Hasse and Adam Reyna. Click here for more images by Rod Hasse.
Student work." The phrase conjures images of eye-searing fabrics, and thread-hanging, bumpy-seamed garments. It's a Project Runway designer's worst fear to hear from the mouth of Tim Gunn. But student fashion shows provide an important role, acting as an incubator, training ground and workshop for tomorrow's top designers. Even the most talented designers were once students, after all.
[Looks by Caitlin Gottshalk; Photo by Cody Lidtke]
And it seems as if more local talent comes out of St. Catherine University in St. Paul than any other school of its relatively small size. Designers now on the tips of the local fashion elitist's tongues - Amanda Christine, Maritza Ramirez, and Jenny Carle, to name a few - have graduated from St. Kate's. But these designers were once students, and each had their share of faux pas and snafus when their senior collections hit the runway. As with most student shows, it's clear who has talent, drive, vision and skill - and who is just trying to hurriedly finish their degrees. With this in mind, we're taking a closer look at some of the more promising designers from last weekend's annual senior show, Katwalk: Altered Appearance, and offering some constructive criticism to these fledgling designers.
[Look by Caitlin Gottschalk]
St. Kate's juniors started off the show with their mini collections - and in fact, some showed more inspiration and talent than some of the seniors' lines. Of the juniors, Caitlin Gottschalk showed the strongest point of view, with flowy white dresses and jumpers, with styling straight off of a Victorian beach in summertime.
[Look by Caitlin Gottschalk]
Consisting of fresh whites and ivory with pops of rose and burgundy, the frilly dresses and jumpers were on-trend and wearable, and the lovely styling gave it a whimsical feel. Though the construction was a little spotty in places and the men's sailor look was a complete misstep, Caitlin proved herself as one to watch.
[Look by Abby Jensen]
Abby Hansen, a junior, showed a small line of cotton vintage-inspired sleepwear, comprising dresses, tops, shorts and robe-like jackets. The little lace-trimmed cami and shorts in particular were adorable, but it's hard to gauge the talent of a designer whose premier collection consists entirely of sleepwear. Hopefully next time she'll show us some ready-to-wear.
[Look by Mary Ehlers]
Next up was Mary Ehlers. Though her line was fairly one-note - using bright white and aqua blue in each look - the one-shouldered dress shone most brightly.
[Look by Jenn Bratvold]
Another junior, Jenn Bratvold, intrigued with her on-trend pieces (hooded jackets, jumpers and mini dresses) that incorporated some interesting details. Jackets are known to be an ambitious challenge for a new designer, and Jenn pulled this one off quite well. (Though the fit was off on the jumper.) The accordion pleated details were also a nice touch, taking a basic silhouette into more highly designed territory.
[Look by Ariel Bock]
Next it was time for the seniors to show their fruits of their labors. Ariel Bock presented an intriguing collection, "Shades of Gray," that hit the runway twice - the second time, showing the transitional qualities hidden in each garment. A satin dress with a chiffon skirt (pictured above) cleverly changed shape with a change of a clasp, and then came off completely, transforming into a minidress. The construction in the piece was among the strongest and most well-executed of the night. But another satin gown suffered from a problem challenging many designers throughout the show - that being cheap-looking, super-shiny stretch satin. It's pretty near impossible to get the seams to lay flat and not bunch, as loyal viewers of Project Runway will attest. Overall, the presentation was definitely eye-catching, though the transitional qualities made some of the garments appear overworked. Though Ariel could use little editing, it's clear she has the goods to shine.
[Look by Anna Taney]
With her cohesive collection of printed, cutout minidresses and separates, Anna Taney was truly the star of the night. She really succeeded when combining eclectic prints and solids with cutout shapes and intertwined strap details.
[Look by Anna Taney]
This color-blocked look made a particularly bold statement on the runway, and kudos to Anna for making the cutout trend so de rigeur her own.
[Look by Emilee Kuznar]
The finale of the night came courtesy of Emilee Kuznar. The lush, floral print of the above look, consisting of a corseted top and skirt, was adorable, and the way she pleated the fabric of the skirt to contrast with the top showed great attention to detail.
[Look by Emilee Kuznar]
But you would hardly know this look was in the same collection. The white flimsy fabric looks like a swarm of moths, and hits at the weirdest places on the model, adding heft to her butt and hips.
[Look by Emilee Kuznar]
But this powder blue, pleated chiffon dress was simply a dream as it glided down the runway. If there was one piece I would want to take straight off the runway, it would be this. Yet again, it seems as if this piece is from an entirely different collection than the two previous looks.
[Look by Emilee Kuznar]
This is another look that confuses me. The reappearance of the chiffon baby blue is welcome and the silhouette is classic and elegant, but it's inexplicably paired with solid black. It's as if two completely different dresses (from two different collections, even) were merged into unholy union.
[Look by Emilee Kuznar]
But here we are back to a bright floral print. I love how the print is similar to that of the first look, but different - and the patio length and styling is spot on. With a little more attention to the overall look and feel of the collection, Emilee will have a very bright future ahead of her.
Regardless of the criticisms, be sure to keep your eyes on this crop. You'll probably be seeing some of them in local boutiques and fashion shows sooner than you think.
Jahna Peloquin is the Fashion Editor for l'etoile magazine and a freelance writer and stylist based out of Minneapolis.All photos by Stacy Schwartz (except very top image by Cody Lidtke).
It was a gorgeous summer evening at Rapson Hall on the University of Minnesota campus as the Friends of the Goldstein hosted its annual fundraiser, the "Dig Design" Garden Party. Though unlike previous years, it was not held outdoors in a garden (which seemed kind of against the point), it still provided a great chance to mingle with the Goldstein's members, see the latest fashions from local luminaries Joynoelle and Russell Bourrienne, and hear about the latest gardening trends from longtime Minneapolis gardening expert Bobby Jensen.
Joynoelle, by local designer Joy Teiken, showed adorable dresses from her spring collection, consisting of frothy confectionary bridal gowns and retro-infused, ultra-chic cocktail dresses, fitting for - of course - a garden party. Many of the pieces would be perfect additions to the Goldstein Museum of Design's permanent collection one day.
The tucks and gathers in her gowns were elaborate yet flattering, and manage to be interesting without being overworked. Young designers should pay attention to our longtime local talent like Joy, and better yet: try to nab themselves an internship with her. Believe me, it will be the best education you can imagine.
\Men's fashion wasn't left behind, as local menswear designer Russell Bourrienne showed his latest collection of sporty menswear that incorporates unique design details into crisp, all-American classics - fit for the East Coast prep of Gossip Girl's Chuck Bass.
And the British flag jacket, made of a creamy leather, could easily go from urban to punk rock depending on the styling.
And finally, here's yours truly with designer Joy Teiken in our garden party-ready outfits.
During the event, we were also given a preview of the Goldstein's ongoing Digital Database Project, for which the Goldstein recently received a grant. The project's goal is to capture each of the 26,000 items in its library of designer fashions, including clothing, shoes, handbags, hats, and other accessories. Click here for a preview of the project. Jahna Peloquin is l'etoile magazine's Fashion Editor, as well as a Minneapolis-based freelance fashion writer and stylist.
We think it's safe to say spring has sprung! Our cool-weather garb has been officially packed away and we're more than ready for patio season. This weekend provides plenty of awesome art and music events as per usual, but in the spirit of the season, we encourage you get out and go for a nature stroll or a leisurely spin on your bike. After all, before you know it we'll be complaining about what the humidity does to our hair and giving you tips on the best places to enjoy air conditioning. Summer is coming!
xo-l'étoile
ALSO THIS WEEK ON L'ETOILE
Beth Hammarlund reviews the Death of Red Shoe show
Minneapolis Fashion Initiative, a group of like-minded local designers join forces in the name of wearable, street-smart clothing, present their debut show on Thursday within the raw confines of the Lab Theater. The young, up-and-coming designers, comprised of Tender Cuts by Emily Bryngelson, Dawson by Amanda Chaffin, Kathryn V. by Kathryn Sterner, and Niki English, will be showing their new spring and summer lines with a focus on separates and stylish pieces that can be worn everyday. With all the designers sold exclusively at Cliché, styling by Cliché stylist Andrea Oseland and a segment of spring looks from the popular local boutique, the show is a definitely family affair. Tickets are available at Cliche and at the door.
A look by Tender Cuts, photo by Ben Lansky and Natalie Olbrantz
THURSDAY MAY 20TH
The Spectacle of Fashion
@ SEVEN Rooftop 700 Hennepin Avenue S. Minneapolis
4-8pm / Free
This is the first we've heard of a local fashion show that is centered around eyewear, rather than simply being accessorized by it, but you know what? It's about time. After all, we all know no summer look is complete without a pair of fierce shades. Graf Optical and IamMoody produce this sunglasses and eyewear-centric fashion show on the swanky rooftop of Seven Ultralounge, just in time for some gorgeous weather. The show will be highlighted by eyewear from OGI, Gucci, Prada, and Tag Heurer, plus fashions from Joynoelle, Bumbershute, Elsworth Menswear and Second Debut, styling by Miyagi Salon, and rooftop decor by our fave interior decorator/drag queen, Richard Anderson. And for an altruistic twist, for every sunglass and eyewear purchade made, Graf Optical will donate one pair of eyeglasses for those less fortunate.
Lovers of white-boy rap and hipster bounce delight as rapper/producer/kinetic geek hound, Juiceboxxx trucks his Miwaukee-based rudimentary basement beats to Club Med tonight for a brilliant and innovative showcase of fresh rhymes. Joining the noisecore rapper are locals dance-punkers, Chelsea Boys; hip-hop experimentalists, Bight Club; Beastie kindreds, MC/VL; and bangin' live sets by DJs Travis Stearns & Jonathan Ackerman. Not sure where the secret location is? We can tell ya it's on the West Bank, behind the Bomp headquarters if you know what we mean. If you still don't get it, just message the creator of the Facebook event, silly!
Congrats to our pals at Burlesque of North America! The talented local screen printers score a coveted feature in the famed graffiti/design/culture rag, Juxtapoz Magazine. The boys say "After years and years of sending them creepy “PUT US IN YOUR MAGAZINE” letters, the fine folks over at Juxtapoz have finally agreed to feature us! With the help of photographer Daniel Corrigan and designer-turned-interviewer Aaron Draplin, our big feature has arrived on newsstands. Check it ouuuuuut!!!"
St. Paul artist Daniel Wieken is known for his comic book-style ink illustrations, but his work is far more sophisticated than those descriptors imply. The artist's work ranges from small scale illustrations to large scale murals, creating creepy little worlds to become lost in for hours. Come to BlackBlue for some wine and cheese and a chance to ask the artist what exactly is going on in that head of his.
Put your money where your (experimental) art is tonight at Art of This' one-night benefit bash at the 1419 space. A cosmic voyage into visual and audio dimensions, the event features multifaceted performance art from “neo-media, SoRealists” and hilar social commentators, Party Food; sound/video manipulators and official space investigators, Wet Dub One – complete with drum machines, cassette players and video channels - and live music from experimental a'cappella band, obchod na korze. All proceeds from the event go towards supporting Art of This' conceptual artist-run, Open Summer Residency Program – one dedicated to producing the radical local prog art we love and swoon over – so donate until your heart's content!
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
FRIDAY MAY 21ST
Andy Elwell Tour Kick-off Show
@Hexagon Bar 2600 27th Avenue South Minneapolis
9pm / 21+ / Free
Plucky guitar notes, exquisitely throaty vocals...not to mention a gorgeous guy? Yeah, must be Andy Elwell. Stop down at the Hex this Friday and support Andy for the first show of his new tour, undoubtedly laced with tunes from his tasty third solo album, No One You Will Ever Know. Joining Andy will be the wonderfully mellow Grant Cutler & the Gorgeous Lords, the groovy Buffalo Buffalo Buffalo, and the achingly jazzy Bella Ruse. Nothing will break your heart more beautifully than this lineup, we promise.
For those of you local music junkies who aren’t already frothing at the mouth over Peter Wolf Crier, you should do yourselves a serious favor and make your way down to the Turf this Friday night for the official release of the duo's heartbreaking debut albumInter-Be - a stunning collection of arrangements that nod to country blues and recall the lo-fi indie folk of M. Ward or label mate Bon Iver; whose stripped down vulnerability reminiscent of sitting around a campfire on a late summer night. Joining Peter Wolf Crier is the equally brilliant Kill the Vultures, so expect an intense romp with Minneapolis' finest.
When Sauce opened its doors on Lynlake, one couldn't help but wonder, "Sauce? Really?" Nevertheless, this music venue has become the best place in Uptown to catch great shows and meet cute boys and girls. This weekend three local acts bring their rock and roll stylings to Lynlake: Teenage Strangler, Gospel Gossip, and l'etoile favorites Red Pens. Good music. Cheap cover. Caffrey's-adjacent. What more could you want on a Friday night?
Oprah can have her Steinbeck, as long as we have our Jacqueline Susann novels. That's right. Ready yourself for the trashiest book club of all time. There is no great literature here, but we're pretty sure book club leaders Courtney McClean & The Dirty Curls have some naughty, bad and awesome cult classics up their sleeve. An online reading group that uses Twitter hashtags and Facebook as discussion mediums, the Trash Novel Book Club is not only deliciously debaucherous, but it's also high-tech! So put on your satin turban, pour a glass of champagne, and light a fire (for when you need to throw your champagne glass later), and cozy up with this month's inaugural selection: Valley of the Dolls. Don't get us wrong, l'etoile loves Tolstoy, but it's almost summer. It's time to get our crap read on.
After two months (has it really been that long?) of voting, One Man Minneapolis will come to a close at Pantages Theatre. The competition celebrates the coolest, handsomest most good-hearted men in the city -- all for a good cause! A "man pageant" of epic proportions, the One Man Minneapolis finale event will feature the top 5 finalists competing in a potentially hilarious judging process that includes formal wear, interview, and (our fave) a work out segment. We've also heard whispers about a possible dance routine. But despite our rampant Mr. America jokes, One Man is all for a good cause: the winner will get to donate $2500 to his favorite charity, and who can argue with that? Not to mention, the guys are a handsome fleet of community involved, talented, smart and charming dudes who deserve a little "pagentry" if you ask us! Support your favorite do-gooder (we'll be out for our ad man Brian Gioielli!!!) and stick around for the swank after-party at Chambers.
@Lowertown Lofts Co-op 255 East Kellogg Blvd. (alley Entrance) St. Paul
9am-4pm / Free
Ah, spring cleaning season! Motivating good folks to shed some layers of stuff and allowing hoarders the opportunity to gorge. Make sure you stop down to the Artist’s Co-op in St. Paul sometime on Saturday to check out the three floors (THREE FLOORS) of blissful second-hand thrifting, as multiple households and artsy types have pooled their antiques, furniture, books, vinyls, art, collectibles, tools, household items, knick knacks, and various cool things. For those of you who need more stuff. This is the treasure hunt you have been waiting for! For those of you who think you have enough stuff: Don’t be ridiculous. You know you need that ceramic flamingo ashtray.
Join l'etoile and Clubhouse Jager for an fun summer kick off party on the patio! Relax at the newly revamped outdoor chill spot and take a seista at the ALL NEW side patio that has it's own outdoor bar! Outdoor acoustic tunes will entertain into the evening, with a wild dance party to commence indoors after 10pm. The Jager crew will be grilling up meat tubes (as in hot dogs and brats) and you'll be privy to them (AND a beer) for a mere 5 bones. No pun intended. At dusk gather 'round the outdoor fire pit and eat some Smores, if you know what's good for ya. See you on the patio!
The characters in l'étoile fave, Terrence Payne's latest exhibit couldn't stumble through life in a more colorful way. Engulfed in vivid oil pastels, silk screen prints and bold lines, the works in Pick Me Up illustrate Payne's organic narrative where each portrait's personal evolution appears to visually unfold before the viewer's eyes. Expect bright hues, exaggerated features and habitual daily routines paired with whimsical phantasm. And, as you all ought to know, Umber openings are always a great time!
Bonus: Check out Kate Iverson's interview with Terrence Payne at City Pages HERE!
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY MAY 22ND
City Pages Best of the Twin Cities Bash
@ Varsity Theater 1308 4th Street SE Minneapolis
8pm / 18+ / $10
It's one of our life goals to win a City Pages 'Best of' for something or other. Good hair? Being awesome? tap dancing? Well, ok, maybe we're reaching. However, we do love that CP has, for many years, gone above and beyond to single out and honor the most amazing local talent, best independent businesses, and coolest happenings around these here parts. This Saturday, City Pages, their friends, fans and of course this year's 'Best of' recipients come out to party and liberally back-pat each other. Featuring three-time 'Best of' winner Dessa headlining the night with her poetic hip hop-infused musings and velveteen vox. No Bird Sing opens.
You know what Minneapolis can absolutely never have enough? Parties celebrating gaydom. Seriously. In one of the most fabulously gay events this fine flaming city has to offer, Pegasus is an all-out opus of drag, dance, music, comedy and obviously, glitter -- with a hilar dose of trashiness and shock thrown in for good measure. With an intermission and closing party hosted by the talented DJ TELL IT TO MY ♥ and DJ Gay Pain, performances by Mysti, Sissy, Muscle Twitch, HIVixXxen and more, this is the perfect opportunity to bust out that Cher wig and tuck it, honey.
A rockin' party with a fantastic lineup...for a worthy cause? We’re all about it. Hit up the 501 on Saturday for Chooglin', Ouija Radio, Iguano, new super group Pink Mink, and Hamburger Help Me -- and shake those hips to celebrate local music scenester Laurel Turek's new one! Laurel underwent hip replacement surgery, and this event is part celebration, part fundraiser for those uber-icky hospital bills that were wracked up in the process. Plus, let’s not forget the awesome raffle that will also be taking place at midnight, with tons of cool giveaways (from spa packages to cooking classes to yoga sessions). Put on your best booty-hugging pants and prepare to shake your stuff all night!
l'étoile hearts Casady sisters “Coco” and “Rosie,” and it's not just because the ladies can sport “fugly hot” even better than Peaches. Defying trite definitions of “freak folk” since their '04 debut album, La maison de mon rêve, the beatboxing duo add elements of blues, opera and hip-hop – often rapping while kid's toys create circuit-bent, lo-fi noises in the background. Their latest album, Grey Oceans – released last week on Sub Pop Records – is another ambitious, surreal dream sequence in audio form from the eccentric pair. Though some of songs on the album seem to move along like honey, when they do pick up the pace, it's well worth the wait. The duo incorporates modern interpretations of tribal elements, world music and genre jumping. Tracks like “Hopscotch” - equal parts jazzy tavern throwback and drum 'n' bass – reminds fans why experimental is listenable and the baroque, piano-laced, “Undertaker,” features a sample of the girls' Native American mother singing in Cherokee – a beautifully sentimental add-in. For every downtempo, piano ballad, there's an ethereal synth-laced track that stays true to their flair for ridiculous musical combinations and lyrical jabberwocky – aka the unmistakable vocals, Pitchfork calls “Björk channeling Billie Holiday.” No one does mystical jazz better.
@ Bryant Lake Bowl 810 West Lake Street Minneapolis
7pm (doors at 6pm) / $12 ($10 w/ Fringe Button)
Make it so, Number One! Warp down to the BLB this Sunday for another round of clever yarn-spinning and quippery courtesy of the The Rockstar Storytellers. This time, with a science fiction theme! Most of you know that l'etoile loves us some BSB, Buffy, Dr. Who and the like, so we're certainly interested in hearing what the Rockstars have to say on the subject. Hosted by Dave Mondy, the evening will feature the literary antics of Joseph Scrimshaw, Allegra Lingo, Allison Broeren, phillip low, Courtney McLean, and special guest performer (and l'etoile contributor) Rob Callahan.
@ Clubhouse Jager 923 Washington Avenue N. Minneapolis
Every Tuesday 10 p.m. / 21+ / Free
Join hosts Kate Iverson (l'étoile magazine, Secrets of the City) and Beth Hammarlund (l'étoile magazine, A Tiny Machine) every Tuesday Night for JagerCon! JagerCon is a weekly sci-fi party featuring screenings of classic nerdy movies and television shows -- topped off with 2-4-1 cocktails all night served by Star Captain Paul!
Mingle with like-minded sci-fi geeks, discuss D&D strategies, and use that Captain Picard impression you've been perfecting to pick up chicks at the bar. Snort-laugh the night away while bragging about your MMORPG addiction and enjoy a cozy, nerd-friendly environment.
MAY 25: Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy JUN 1: The Neverending Story
L'ETOILE NEWSWIRE
Show your support and VOTE for MNFashion!
MNFashion has been accepted in to the Pepsi Refresh Challenge and are in the running to get a $50K! This amount of money could change the spectrum of the fashion community in the Twin Cities in a BIG way! You can vote for MNfashion every day through the end of May. The money will allow Mnfashion to better support the local design community through a sewing co-op and to provide designers networking and access to resources that will help them with their business. This means that designers can produce product at a lower cost (which also means a lower cost to you!). Currently MNFashion is ranked 138th among 1300 or so candidates vying for about 40 or so grants. SO, if you make an effort to vote everyday it could really make a huge difference. VOTE HERE it takes but a minute!
Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Lauren Gantner, Natalie Gallagher, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Rob Callahan, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin
To request an event listing on letoilemagazine.com, or to inquire about advertising, e-mail kate@letoilemagazine.com
To send a promo or press release for consideration through U.S. mail:
l'etoile magazine
628 4th Street NE
2nd Floor
Minneapolis Mn 55413
[Some of the One Man semi-finalists before the show]
[Finalist Brian Gioelli in the fitness challenge]
[Lucy Michelle performing "Poker Face"]
[The One Man finalists]
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