Design veteran Christine Carmichael (of Carmichael Claith) is always one to watch, dabbling in several runway shows every year, including the recent Envision, SCENEaSOTA and last year‘s Voltage. A traditional seamstress known to spark twinges of nostalgia with her timeless silhouettes and contemporary tailoring, Carmichael’s apparel is the perfect presentation of elegant urban style with hints of Scottish and English sportswear. For her Voltage collection, Carmichael tackles tailored menswear with modern pieces inspired by the literary classic, The Wind in the Willows. No surprise to us; we’ve always seen Toad as quite the distinguished fashion vanguard. We chatted with Christine this week about her designs and Voltage 2010...
Photo by Stephanie Colgan for Voltage: Fashion Amplified
l'étoile: Your Voltage collection is a mix of Scottish elements, Victorian-era English sporting wear and traditional folklore with modern updates – themes you've entertained in other collections. What inspires you about these regions and era in particular?
Christine: The history of that era and the location has interested me since childhood and has provided a basis for imagination much the same way that places like the American Mountain West inspires other designers. The focus and attention to detail in the clothing during that era is inspiring, as well as the combination of style with function found in the clothing.
l'étoile: You recently showed collections at Envision and SCENEaSOTA and are the sole fashion designer returning to the runway from last year's Voltage event. Of all the productions you've been involved in, which has been your favorite and what have you learned?
Photo by Stephanie Hynes for SCENEaSOTA 2009
Christine: The first SCENEaSOTA, because you get to be apart of the production from the ground up. You simply do not appreciate all the work that goes into a show until you have to put one together yourself. At SCENEaSOTA, we were able to come together and successfully put together a show that we were proud of and it has grown every year since.
l'étoile: Your line this season has a “Wind in the Willows” theme. Disney, Broadway or literary version? And how did this concept come to you? Please tell us there will be anthropomorphic runway models.
Christine: The theme is drawn from the original literary version of the story. The descriptions written by Kenneth Grahame in the book and the various illustrations inspired by them are the source of the style elements that I will be incorporating into the designs. This was one of my favorite childhood stories, and I thought that the adventures of the characters would translate to a runway story very well.
Photo by Stacy Schwartz / Voltage 2010 Preview
l'étoile: What Twin Cities spots do you draw inspiration from and how do they inspire you?
Christine: The Saint Paul riverfront, the historic architectural buildings on Summit Hill and in the Mac/Groveland area, as well as some of the more rural areas such as vineyards or orchards.
l'étoile: If your Voltage collection was the love child of two designers, who would they be?
Christine: The great storyteller Marc Jacobs with the impeccable tailoring and imagination of Alexander McQueen. For more information of Christine Carmichael click HERE.
For more info on Voltage: Fashion Amplified and to purchase tickets for the April 16th event at First Avenue click HERE.
A fresh face in the Twin Cities design scene, Fargo-born designer, Frances Zerr, received her bachelor’s in art history before moving on to study among the innovative design mentors at NY’s Parsons the New School for Design. We got our first taste of her design flavor at last fall’s La Nouvelle Femme, where she revealed a striking line of garments full of angles, texture and fashion-forward creativity. With a wearable-to-the-death design aesthetic and a nod to the on-the-go woman, Zerr’s line challenges the concept of sustainability vs. fashion. Her design aesthetic calls to mind a '40s approach where the shopper’s emphasis is on purchasing long-term classic pieces not splurging on trendy forgettables. For her Voltage ‘10 collection, prepare to see a confident runway show of clean lines, natural fabrics and impeccable hand craftsmanship.
Frances graciously answered a few of our pressing questions this week...
Photo by Stephanie Colgan
l'étoile: Your designs incorporate a classic “wearable-to-the-death” aesthetic sensibility. Do you have pieces in your personal wardrobe that have been “worn-to-death?"
Frances: Absolutely. I dress myself day-to-day with a sort of "uniform" mentality. Classic button-ups in chambray and white cotton paired with skinny jeans is my go-to outfit for days when I need to get work done without any fuss. A well-cut item stands the test of time and always feels relevant.
l'étoile: What are your thoughts on construction quality vs. trendiness? Do you think it's possible to have both?
Frances: I think that is possible to have both. The key is to find a balance between trend and quality within a single item or outfit. I personally will pay more for an item that I know will get me through a couple of seasons because the trendiness is toned down and the quality stands out. In my own work, I try to figure out how to make a trend really wearable, to give it a cut or a fabric choice that will make it feel more timeless.
Photo by Stacy Schwartz / Voltage 2010 Media & Buyer's preview
l'étoile: In one of the shots from the Voltage Spring Preview show, your model sports an updated take on overalls. What was this look inspired by specifically, and how challenging is it to take a concept inspired by perhaps workwear or vintage and take a fresh spin on it?
Frances: The overalls, as well as much of the rest of my Spring/Summer 2010 collection, were strongly influenced by workwear. It is a constant challenge to adapt classic styles into fashion that feels modern and relevant. My favorite results come from uncomplicating these items, using wearable colors and fabrics and – most importantly – developing a modern fit.
l'étoile: If your Voltage collection was the love child of two designers, who would they be?
Frances: I love APC for their incredibly wearable and well-made collections. The first time I walked into an APC boutique, I walked around the store two or three times examining every piece as if it was an unearthed gem that I had been looking for for a long time without realizing it. On the other hand, I love a lot of young American labels. Philip Lim is a definite influence. He brings such a fine-tuned coolness to his clothes. It’s quirky and smart, but so so cool.
Photo by Charlie Ward/Nouvelle Femme Show 2009
l'étoile: What advice do you have for up-and-coming local designers to advance in the fashion community and get noticed?
Frances: Studio work is very isolating; the only way to get your work out there is to get out there yourself. Always try to represent your work through yourself within your community. Be appreciative and supportive of fellow creatives. Not everyone will love what you do, but if they notice that you care about your work that is usually enough to gain a little bit of interest, or at least respect.
Okay, so the majority of our musical geniuses are off partying and rockin' out at SXSW in Austin, Texas. However, there's no need to despair! This weekend, while not too heavy on the music, is filled with a grip of cool, artsy events plus a very special rock n' roll reunion show AND the debut of a soon-to-be super hot new musical duo that will totally make up for the absence our musical brethren. Get out this weekend and see the sights, celebrate the impending Spring flowers, and take this weekend as an excuse to party double time -- you know our friends in Austin are!
@ Denler Art Gallery Northwestern College 3003 Snelling Ave N St. Paul
6pm-8pm / Free
It’s amazing what will sneak up on you when you least expect it. In this instance, it’s art by 23 young artists. In this show at Northwestern College juried by Natasha Pestich, Assistant Professor at MCAD, a wide range of mediums are represented, from photography to painting. Be there for the opening reception and awards ceremony and stake your claim to an undiscovered artist. Runs through April 2nd.
PCRF Benefit featuring Guante, E.G. Baily and more
@ Fine Line Music Cafe 318 1st Avenue N Minneapolis
7pm / 21+ / $10
Local hip hoppers come together this evening to benefit a great cause! Tonight's event includes talented, good-hearted artists Guante, E.G. Baily, West of Aldine, and Sha Cage who will be on hand to rock the Fine Line for The Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF). PCRF is a non-profit non-political organization that seeks to provide children in the Middle East with medical treatment and specialized surgery. Before the concert at the Fine Line, head to nearby contemporary Indian restaurant, Om, for a bite to eat - a portion of those proceeds will be donated to the charity as well.
After perusing the entries on Vita.mn’s best new band contest recently, we stumbled across this lovely new band. Fronted by singer-songwriter Seth McGaha, the melody-rich songs get a boost from the lush instrumentation of his band (think Broken Social Scene or Elliott Smith in his XO era). Despite the upbeat sound, the lyrics focus on nostalgia and include references to death and religion, tinged with occasional bouts of regret. But we can’t help but love the very Minnesotan references to Minnesota snow and summertime swimming, not to mention the hand-stamped CD packaging. Dada Trash Collage (another l’etoile favorite) and Ultrachorus round out the evening.
This week's art pick is comprised of multiple art picks within one cool, cool website! Mnimal.com is the brainchild of curator/designer Joshua Serbus and web guru Andrew Hafferman who feature daily links to LOCAL artists, graphic designers, developers and more. We admit, we first came across this site via a Google alert for l'etoile that led us to the site where we discovered that l'etoile was a featured link (thanks guys)! After investigating further we discovered a plethora of featured artists that we know and love, as well as a number that we haven't yet discovered. Can you say "cool resource?" On the current front page alone -- which is a clean, well-designed grid of links with images -- we count some of our local faves including Jesse Draxler, Garrett Perry, Adam Brackney, Brock Davis and more. The site features close to 200 entries so far and they even take submissions. So whether you know an awesome artist, are one yourself, or are simply an appreciator, hit this website up asap. We could spend a whole afternoon browsing this fantastically curated selection of local "art picks." Love it!
Inspired by his recent printmaking residency at the Anderson Ranch Art Center in Snow Mass Colorado, the latest work from l'etoile fave and local artist Drew Peterson titled, From the Mountain, explores the process of layering and fragmenting using his signature style of abstract design, intaglio, screenprinting and mixed media. Reminiscent of a mountain, his works are a heavy mass of overlapping symbols, colliding images and acrylic formations done on gouache paper wall prints, large-scale installations, digital printing and canvas. Also on display tonight will be Peterson’s Pinwheel Series, ten correlating works never before shown in one exhibit. This eye-popping, valley-driven exhibit runs through April 24th, with an opening reception tonight!
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
FRIDAY MARCH 19TH
“If You Lived Here You’d Already Be Home” Launch Party
@ Magers and Quinn 3038 Hennepin Ave S Minneapolis
7:30-10:30pm/free
We’ll admit, we were never that keen on those obnoxious “If You Lived Here, You’d Already Be Home” billboards, but John Jodzio’s short story collection titled with the same tagline has us reconsidering our stance. Story contributor to The Rake, Minnesota Monthly and two time winner of mnartists.org’s miniStories fiction contest, MN author Jodzio has teamed up with the McKnight-Loft Fellowship to produce his first collection. If You Lived Here, You'd Already Be Home is 21 compact stories cloaked in clever wordsmithery and tinged with Jodizo's signature wit and a dose of dark humor. Set to officially release tonight, Jodzio’s book will be the first publication to herald in Replacement Press, St. Paul’s latest publishing venture devoted to the voices of the next literary generation. Join Magers and Quinn as they host the launch party for Jodzio – the thematic traditionalist – and his fresh batch of whipsmart tales. After party immediately following the reading at nearby Chaing Mai Thai Restaurant.
Whet your appetite with an excerpt from the book’s short story The Barnacle:
FRIDAY MARCH 19TH
Dane Kuttler
@ Peach Northwestern Building 275 East 4th Street Suite b200 Lowertown St. Paul
7:30pm-11pm / Donations accepted
Head to Lowertown this evening for a rousing round of eclectic poetic ramblings and climactic spoken word performance. Hip art collective, Peach, hosts Seattle-based slam poet Dane Kuttler, who is fresh off the boat from the Women of the World Poetry Slam Championships in Columbus, OH. Kuttler, joined by a flock of local poets, will regale the audience with her lyrical and personal words that are often based around the themes of Jewish and queer identities.
If you were into the local music scene, oh, say, six or seven years ago, you undoubtedly remember the feisty pop-punk stylings of girl-fueled group, The Soviettes. One of the best local bands to grace the scene (in our humble opinion) the Soviettes made a quick but memorable imprint on Minneapolis with their catchy anthems and sassy punk rock swagger. This reunion show comes with an extra added bonus too: the gang will be releasing LP IV, a fiery collection of b-sites and rarities. Also on the bill are Soviettes member's current projects including The Gateway District (featuring guitarist Maren Macosko), Awesome Snakes (Annie Holoien and Danny Henry), and That's Incredible (Susy Sharp). We're crossing our fingers that this reunion isn't just a one time thing, and that we'll be privy to new Soviettes material in the near future. Please?
@ Clubhouse Jager 923 Washington Ave N Minneapolis
10pm / 21+ / Free
Show us what you’ve got! The dancefloor will be slick with specialty drinks and the dewey perspiration of the city’s most attractive dancers, getting down to the sounds of DJ Teikio Westmar. Club Jager is one of the coziest, happening bars in town, and now that it’s nice out (early spring!) their patio (which quadruples the size of the dance floor) will be the perfect spot for twilight socializing. Teikio's promised classics AND guilty pleasures, let’s take up the offer!
With Voltage: Fashion Amplified just weeks away, l'étoile returns to give you the skinny on the talented local designers involved with this year’s runway show. Each week, tune in for a new designer spotlight and get the lowdown on their design aesthetic, style and a sneak peek of their ’10 Voltage collection. Not to mention, l'étoile Culture Editor, Juleana Enright will let you in on an intimate Q&A sesh with each designer, where they'll dish on everything from their favorite local spots to how they sharpen their creative chops. This week’s spotlight features locally-bred designer, Danielle Everine; an artist and sculpturist with a drive for fashion.
Click HERE for Juleana's interview with Danielle Everine
SATURDAY MARCH 20TH
Obscura Day
@ House of Balls 212 3rd Avenue North Suite 108 Minneapolis
Noon-4pm / Free
Happy Obscura Day! What the heck is Obscura Day, you ask? Well, according to the website, it's an "international celebration of wondrous, curious and esoteric places" that counts 80+ cities all over the world as its venue. So, in other words, a new holiday (one that we can fully get behind for once!). The Minneapolis installment of Obscura Day will bring you to the eccentric and rarely traversed confines of Allen Christian's "House of Balls" in the Minneapolis Warehouse District. A quiet but steady staple on the scene for nearly 20 years, this blink-and-you'll-miss-it shrouded storefront art gallery/fun house keeps odd hours and does few events, so today is the perfect opportunity to delve into the strange and wildly creative mind of "the Willy Wonka of Twin Cities art." Christian's own imaginative mixed media sculptures and installations overrun this cramped, fully-decked out art space -- a space that certainly doesn't lack a plethora of delightfully whimsical details. Obscure? Yes. Awesome? Totally.
@ California Building Gallery 2205 California St NE Minneapolis
7-10pm / $20
Tonight, one man’s trash is another man’s fashion show as the Bottineau Neighborhood Association presents their annual Green runway show and fundraiser. The family-friendly event will feature a glam array of vintage, recycled and reused wearables, plus stylish clothing designed with the environment and social responsibility in mind. Stephanie Ash (Powder Keg Live and Electric Arc Radio) emcees as models strut fashionable looks from local thrift stores, reuse shops and Green designers. Tonight’s Green Gala also features a trunk sale and a silent auction with items from the Modern Café, NE Social Club, Ginger Hop, and Live Fast Die Young Tattoo – among many others! Plus, tasty hors d’oeurves and a live jazz set from the Greg Schaefer Trio. Proceeds will go to benefit the annual Earth Day Watershed Clean Up project. Recycled attire encouraged!
@ Sweeney Todd's Hair Salon 2429 S. Lyndale Avenue Minneapolis
7pm-Midnight / Free
A colorful explosion of bright, bold illustration, paintings, and mixed media work will greet you at Sweeney Todd's this evening as artists and compadres Charlie Forbes and Josh Van Heuveln present Unnatural Oddities. Tattooists by day, imaginative dreamers by night, these two creative cats will pop your eyes with their detailed and often surreal works of art. Who knows? You may leave with an idea for your next great tattoo -- and the business cards of the artists who can totally make it happen. Beer, wine, and eye candy abound.
Luke Aleckson and Matt McAuliffe urge you to think about ownership, reality and isolation, in a show taking its name from a double-gag order. A Super Injunction "is a gag order on a gag order, such that the public is not even allowed to know that a gag order on whatever information we do not know what is be gagged is gagged, a double encryption of an event or situation." These Minneapolis artists use historical and cultural events as their starting point, then strip away context. Thought provoking, visually intense, and somewhat disturbing, if you ask us! Runs through April 11th.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY MARCH 20TH
Equinox: A New World Language
@ Cult Status Gallery 2913 Harriet Ave S Minneapolis
8pm-12am / Free
MPLS’ badass gallery, the Cult Status, is an art studio not to be reckoned with. Let’s just put it this way, you wouldn’t wanna meet it in a dark alley. Converted into a common art space by the folks at 33Design Gallery, curator Erin Sayer and the MPLS Deth Crew, the gallery features alternative art from some of the cities’ most interesting underground artists. Think gender-mashes, monster themes, gloom ‘n’ doom and a plethora of pop cult references. For tonight’s exhibit, Equinox, 10 groups and individual artists have collaborated to create a 1,500 sq. ft. wall installation inspired by the work of MC Escher, street-art, vampires – see we told you! – and mixed mediums creating a new platform of art through their translation. The artists involved had 10 days to complete the show, from March 10th until tonight, March 20th, aka the equinox, thus the show’s moniker. Peep outrageous art from the MPLS Deth Crew, DJ Danny Sigelman, Erin Sayer, Top Gun Familia, Desecrated Embyros and many others. Plus, enjoy a crooning set by dark cabaret folkers, the Butcher’s Bag, and place your bids in the silent auction. Don’t be scared to visit their digs; l'étoile is here to protect you.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY MARCH 20TH
BNLX EP Release
@ Sauce 3001 Lyndale Ave S Minneapolis
9pm / 21+ / $5
As modern rock continues to try and recreate itself by slapping together every genre known to humankind, incorporating every instrument from the furthest reaches of the globe in search of uncharted sonic territory, there's something comforting about the sassy, straightforward rock of local "newbs" BNLX, the mystery-shrouded new project from Susstones guru Ed Ackerson (Polera) and his wife Ashley Ackerson (Mood Swings). While not straining to reinvent the musical wheel, BNLX's solid, pop-forward tunes sound like they could have been recorded in Britain some twenty years ago, and have that certain punch that just makes you want to shake ass. Help them celebrate the release of their debut EP #1 tonight with the likes of the Red Pens, Merc Rage, and Bluesky Blackout.
Super Fun Fact: BNLX's debut EP was produced by Ackerson homeboy, Paul Q. Koiderie, who has lent his formidable skills to artists such as the Pixies, Hole, Dinosaur Jr., the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and many more, including Radiohead (who was said to be convinced to release the career-making song "Creep" by none other than Koiderie).
The Bread and Puppet Theater has come all the way from quaint Vermont to bring tales of radical utopia, a cabaret of undecipherable events, and its puppetry to you, kind viewer. Bread and Puppet is one of the oldest non-profit theatrical companies in the country, so they must be doing something right. Accompanying the Dirt Cheap Cabaret & Circus is the Even Cheaper String and Accordion Ensemble, so a combination of the two is a great deal. Through March 21st.
SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: HowWasTheShow.com Voltage Band Spotlight: Ruby Isle
Click the link below for the first in a series of Voltage 2010 band spotlights HowWasTheShow.com will be running, one each week up until the week of the show. The first band profile is of Ruby Isle, who will be playing Voltage 2010 at First Avenue on Friday, April 16th.
Click HERE for the full article on Ruby Isle at HowWasTheShow.com
TUESDAY MARCH 23RD
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.
NEW SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED!
MAR 23: Alice MAR 30: Metropolis APR 6: Beyond Thunderdome APR 13: Strange Days APR 20: Doctor Who: The Enemy Within APR 27: Tank Girl MAY 4: Moon MAY 11: Ghostbusters MAY 18: Pontypool MAY 25: Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy JUN 1: The Neverending Story
This Week's Flick is Alice:
GUEST BLOGGER: LE PETIT CONNAISSEUR
Jahna Peloquin salutes talented photographer Ashley Lebedev -- a photographer who we'll soon be working with on a l'etoile photo shoot!
Local fashion photographer Ashley Lebedev hinted that her work would soon be appearing in a national publication, and today she announced the details - and posted scans of the gorgeous spread.
Save the Date: Imagination Mechanism an interactive fashion party exploring the creative process
Friday, April 23, 2010 / Free 7pm to 11pm (photo shoot styling begins at 7:30pm)
Join l'étoile magazine for a real-time peek inside our creative process! We'll return once again to the Eitel Building's gorgeous Rooftop Sky Park on Loring Park for a stylish, interactive mixer that will invite you to play creative director for a day. Try your hand at designing fashion photo shoot mood boards and story boards with the help of l'étoile staff, then watch as we implement these same processes to create a live fashion photo shoot that will include everything from styling, shooting, retouching, and even editorial layout -- all right before your eyes. Complimentary cocktails and appetizers will be available, along with music from l'étoile DJs. And dress to impress: we'll be giving away prizes to the most "fashion photo ready" attendees! Sponsored by l'étoile magazine, MNFashion and Secrets of the City.
Voltage Tickets on Sale NOW!
Voltage: Fashion Amplified returns to First Avenue on Friday, April 16! An MNfashion production, Voltage is the flagship fashion event held each spring, kicking on MNFashion Week! Filled with a bevy of local fashion design set to the backdrop of rockin' local bands, Voltage is a can't-miss event! For a full lineup of designers and bands, to purchase tickets, and also keep up on Voltage news, teasers and the schedule for the Vintage Voltage Rock Show series held at the 501 Club leading up to the big event at 1st Avenue visit www.voltagefashionamplified.com.
Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson// Contributors: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Juleana Enright, Lauren Gantner, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Rob Callahan, Beth Hammarlund, Jahna Peloquin
This week’s inaugural Voltage: Fashion Amplified spotlight is locally-bred, Danielle Everine; an artist and sculpturist with a drive for fashion. You may recall this textural genius at the Electro Couture Culture show where she showcased a collection of unconventional pieces including a cashmere kimono, vinyl armor and ruffled knickers. At last fall’s Couture Noir, she delighted us once again with a collection of wooden chest plates, boleros made from sheet metal and leather, hand-printed horse tunics and feather tanks. Steadfast to her concepts of unconventional beauty, gender and power, Everine’s latest line, borrows textiles and silhouettes from 19th century menswear. Using a sculpture background as her creative springboard, Everine’s design aesthetic subtly weaves the binaries of gender within fashion into garment construction, and explores concepts of androgyny and superficial beauty. To us, she is a designer who truly adheres to “art as fashion.” We wouldn’t be surprised if her runway show for Voltage was a full-on masculine vs. feminine battle, swords and all.
We recently chatted with Danielle about her work, her inspirations and Voltage 2010....
Photo by Stephanie Colgan
l'étoile: Your garments this season are delicate, feminine versions of 19th century menswear. Where did this Victorian dandy inspiration draw from and how has this collection evolved from the avant-garde garments you showed at Couture Noir last fall?
Danielle: This current collection, rather than so forcefully expose degradation of women as the garments for Couture Noir did, attempts to reclaim men’s fashions as a form of gender emancipation. The dichotomies of strength and vulnerability, masculinity and femininity, as well as chiffon and leather continue, but in a fresh way. I choose to create ready-to-wear garments for Voltage in an attempt to influence real women’s wardrobes towards an empowered look, while remaining feminine and creating something of our own.
l'étoile: Your collection reminds us of Tipping the Velvet, a British novel and a BBC miniseries about a vaudeville actress who dresses as a male to perform on stage. The main character, Nan, juxtaposes feminine form with masculine lines in the form of street savvy menswear and smart pantsuits and feels empowered by her androgyny. Was this concept of feminism on your mind while designing your pieces?
Danielle: Absolutely. Following my fall collection, I realized that the adoption of menswear pieces into women’s wear offers better societal protection and respect that any piece of armor can. Clothing plays such an important role in our status in society; we must make efforts to subvert sexist fashion expectations. The refusal to adopt oppressive beauty looks and practices empowers women and our cause.
l'étoile: You have a background in sculpture. Do you have a similar thought process when designing a dress as you do sculpting an art piece?
Danielle: At the turn of the century, tailoring was dubbed the “gentle” art. Sewing is a subtle art form, using ephemeral fabrics to encase a form. Tailoring gently alters an existing physique. Sculpture is about rigidly creating a solid structure; it is the form. Much of same thought processes and skills apply to both, as the end product is 3-dimentional.
Voltage preview photo by Staciaanne Photography
l'étoile: Describe the kind of film you could see your Voltage collection featured in. What kind of motif do you think it would embody?
Danielle: Tough question. I imagine a large all-female cast in with lots of extras in a futuristic noir film. Let’s say Blade Runner meets Even Cowgirls Get the Blues.
l'étoile: What Twin Cities spots do you draw inspiration from and how do they inspire you? (These could include nature spots, architectural buildings, businesses, etc...)
Danielle: The cycling culture and fancifulness of Minneapolis inspired this current collection. The functionality of beautiful garments, as what is required for proper bicycling, interests me to no end. Dear friends of mine host a very charming tweed ride seasonally when the weather calls for nothing else. Wool suits, tweed capes and leather satchels appear in the most grandiose fashion. The wardrobe is quite enjoyable as well as influential.
The green season cometh! As we're sure you've noticed, the dastardly snow is slowly dwindling and the temperatures are steadily creeping up into a tolerable (dare we say sweater-worthy?) range. However, we wouldn't put it past Winter to give it one last defiant go. This weekend is packed with a grip of hot events that will easily keep your Winter worries at bay though, including vividly colorful art exhibits, wild dance parties and plenty of rock and/or roll. And since we're on the very cusp of Spring, we thought it appropriate to release our latest photo shoot,Winter's Last Breath, which you can check out below. Enjoy!
xo-l'étoile
THIS WEEK ON L'ETOILE
Jahna Peloquin updates our Shopping & Sales Guide HERE
WINTER'S LAST BREATH l'étoile photo editorial Winter/Spring 2010
As March advances, the Snow Queen's icy grip lessens and our longest season fades into the past. Though we rejoice for the sun and spring, it is impossible not to mourn the loss of the winter's royal majesty. Master storyteller Rob Callahan weaves a fantastical tale following the Snow Queen's ascendance and fated waning as she melts away.
Click to enlarge the spread and flip through the pictures
THURSDAY MARCH 11TH
Patches and Gretchen CD Release Party
@ Varsity Theater 1308 4th St. SE. Minneapolis
7pm / 18+ / $10
Living in the shadows of a famed sibling could be pretty overwhelming for most people. Fortunately for us, local singer/songwriter, Gretchen Seichrist (aka Aimee Mann's sister) doesn't let discography differences hold back her creative chops. Now on her sophomore album, Sugar Head Pie, Seichrist welcomes listeners into her dichotomized world of sound – part apple pie sweetness and part darkened poetics – to be swept away by smoky storytelling and lyrical rawness. Like a musical kaleidoscope, Patches and Gretchen's artsy lullabies borrow elements from Bob Dylan-esque folk, blues, punk, psychedelia and Americana, soaking us in her mystic melancholy. Catch the Gretchen and co. tonight along with special guests Kevin Bowe and the Okemah Prophets, Liminal Phase (feat. Adam Levy), Dan Israel and host Magic Mike.
Design in the Dark Film Series: Valentino: The Last Emperor
@ the U of M - 33 McNeal Hall 1985 Buford Avenue, Saint Paul
7pm / Free
Get a glimpse into the world of Valentino Garavani, the man behind the famed couture label Valentino this Thursday at the U of M. In the fifth incarnation of the monthly film series, Design in the Dark, the Goldstein Museum presents a screening of this stunning documentary about the man, the myth and the legend. The film explores the life of Valentino from his creative process to his love life with business partner Giancarlo Giammetti to his epic, final runway show. Best of all? Tonight's screening is totally free!
It seems the city is going Prince crazy of late, and for good reason: the purple one penned a Vikings fight song and even recently graced our local airwaves with a new hit. Tonight you're invited to unabashedly show off your purple pride (with a cocktail in hand) while you get down to the sounds of Prince, The Time, Sheila E, Vanity 6 and more. In honor of one of the biggest stars ever to come out of our fair cities, we’ll be dressed to the nines...with a dash of purple, of course!
What can we say? We're totally captivated by Tea Petrovic's avant garde collection of sculptural high heeled shoes. Petrovic was inspired by shoe designer Bernard Figueroa and the idea that “there is so much space between a woman’s heel and the floor that one can use," as well as Russian sculptor Naum Gabo and architect Santiago Calatrava. Determined to create a new concept based on the glamorized footwear, Tea focused on the form of each piece, identifying with the artistic aesthetic rather than the functionality. Her shoes are all about taking 2-D elements and twisting them into flowy 3-D designs, incorporating very geometric shapes to showcase the space between the sole of the shoe, the pointy heels and the floor. Hopefully her work inspires a more wearable collection in the future, because these pretty pieces could definitely be the next Gaga must-have!
Click HERE for more info on the project via Dezeen
FRIDAY MARCH 12TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)
Vinyl Record Sale
@ Carlton Lofts party room 2285 University Avenue St. Paul
4-10pm Fri, 10am-10pm Sat, Noon-4pm Sun / Free
When Jake Rudh recommends something, we know to pay attention. The Transmission DJ claims a quarter of his collection is from these guys, so you know they’re the real deal. The monolithic vinyl record sale from the owner of now-defunct but much-beloved Let It Be Records and vinyl sellers Go Johnny Go and Riffs-Ahoy happens this weekend for the second time in 2010. The trio will offer up their sweet collections, capitalizing on the latest wave of vinyl fanaticism. To get you through the weekend, they’ve enlisted a series of local DJs (specializing in vinyl, natch) including Phil Borreson of Radio K’s Last Year’s Model (4-6 p.m. Fri.), Chuck Tomlinson of Radio K’s Cosmic Slop (11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat.), Glen Leslie of KFAI’s Jet Set Planet (3-5 p.m. Sat.), and our pal Tim Ritter of Bella Koshka and Blue Sky Blackout (2-4 p.m. Sun.)
Check out this MinnPost vid on record sellers Go Johnny Go and Let it Be:
FRIDAY MARCH 12TH (THROUGH 21ST)
Time for a Makeover!
@ Soo Visual Arts Center 2640 Lyndale Ave S Minneapolis
10am-6pm/free
SooVAC is moving...just a few paces down from their current space! Still, it’s seems a good a time as any to clean house, so there are plenty of artsy steals and deals to be had. Merch and display items will be up for grabs, and prices have been slashed so low you'd think they were going out of business, which trust us, is definitely NOT the case. Congrats to the SooVAC crew on their new beginnings! Sale runs through March 21.
At first glance, l'etoile fave and local artist Allen Brewer's aged carbon etchings and colored pencil drawings could seem quite innocent in their concept. Tighten your gaze and you'll find something hidden in his pieces that goes much deeper than simple nostalgia. By adding an erratic word or two, Brewer exchanges literal interpretations for irony, cynicism and at times a sinister quality that leaves his work open to each individual's own whimsical translation. Join the artist for an opening reception at Chambers' Burnet Gallery tonight. On display until May 9th.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
FRIDAY MARCH 12TH
Hit Like a Girl
@ Pink Hobo Gallery 507 E. Hennepin Minneapolis
7pm / Free
The Pink Hobo is kicking their 2010 exhibition schedule with a one-two punch! That’s right, this time around the self-described geek art gallery welcomes a bevy of talented poster artists who have been inspired by the brutal babes of the MNRollergirls. The Hit Like a Girl poster exhibit gathers printmakers from all wakes of Minneapolis to show what they really think it means to ‘hit like a girl’. Join gaggles of geeks and gals for a night of pretty prints, ice cold bevies and tunes from Cardboard Kitten and Kenny Kingston. Plus, you can expect to see new designs from the likes of Amy Jo, Brian Ewing, Andrew Bawidamann, Jenny Schmid, Eyo Peters, Shad Petosky, Colin Strandberg, Sean Smuda, Steve Tenebrini and many more!
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
FRIDAY MARCH 12TH
Dearling Physique + Bella Koshka
@ Sauce 3001 Lyndale Ave S Minneapolis
9:30pm/21+/$5
What does experimental electro performance art and dusty cabaret rock have in common? Stage presence. And anyone who's been in the crowd for performances by local luminaries Dearling Physique and Bella Koshka, knows exactly what we mean. The artists Björk , Fever Ray and medieval darkwavers, Faun, come to mind, as well as the words “insanely epic.” These local-bred musicians don't just play songs; they create theatrics with dreamy coma rock and visually impressive, tribal dance-infusions. Be prepared to writhe in fog machine clouds and arch-dramatics tonight with live sets from Dearling Physique, Bella Koshka and Xiu Xiu-esque experimental roots artist, Eric Lindley of NYC.
10pm/18+/$5 (free w/ admission to theater performance)
Ushering in the Four Humor Theater's neo-utopian production Welcome to Dystopia, the Bedlam presents a two-night, non-stop, cacophonist journey of mayhem, music and visual warfare aka Dystopia Days. Featuring a collaborative performance by Tony Biele and Jon Davis, plus nuclear music from Pelzwik, Beseppy, Datura 1.0, Playstation Playstation, Tentacle Boy, Ricky Charles, Marijuana Deathsquads, The Radar Threat, S/M, Nervous Girls, Hot Tony and Ghostband. Not to mention, hot special effects by visual-masters Time Squid & VisionQuest and a dance-a-torium in the fireplace room with tunes spun by DJ Derin Black. AND if you're feeling especially adventurous, seek out info on the nearby and elusive Medusa space which will host a sci-fi-ridden, erotic space dance party; "The Dark Nebula" presented by Cizetta will feature sets from DJs The Nightstalker, Naughty Wood, Sovietpanda and The Lurker. Warning: Bedlam and Medusa are not responsible chaotic behavior; anarchic madness and sensual dancing may ensue.
@ First Ave VIP Room 701 First Avenue North Minneapolis
10pm/18+/$3 adv & $5 door
There is nothing that l’étoile loves more than a crazy dance party, and the boys from Attitude City and Burlesque definitely know how to inspires said craziness! This monthly all-vinyl disco dance-off will get your blood pumpin’ with tunes from Attitude City, Mike 2600, and special guest Superbrush 427. The night of classic disco, boogie, rollerskate funk, early house & electro, and other sounds from your childhood is a dance party you won’t want to miss out on!
Most of us go to estate sales or vintage stores, see a pile of baubles and think "I could make something cool out of that!" Renee Larson actually follows through on this dream of recycling looks from the past by creating bold and colorful pieces that mix vintage and contemporary. Every piece is unique and well-crafted and (dare we say) hint at the playfulness of Spring, which is just around the corner! Renee's creations are carried at Design Collective, Karma, Ladyslipper, Bebe Babble, and she's just opened a new Etsy shop so you can get first dibs on one-of-a-kind pretties online.
@ FrameUps Gallery 4325 Nicollet Avenue South Minneapolis
6-9pm / Free
Silk-screen extraordinaire, Adam Turman, has gone solo with a big show all his own! After his experiences making gritty posters for local gigs, pretty prints of Minneapolis sites and hip signage for many local events, Adam has finally compiled 38 of his favorite pieces to show off to the public in one spot. That’s right, stop by the FrameUps Gallery to catch a glimpse of his printed pieces as well while you munch on scrumptious snacks from Pizza Lucé and feel the localite lager love from Surly Brewing Co.
Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com
SATURDAY MARCH 13TH
Feast
@ Minneapolis Eagles Club 2507 E 25th St Minneapolis
7-10pm / $10-$20 (cash donations)
Modeled after Brooklyn's art awareness fundraiser, FEAST BKLYN, the Twin Cities latest community-driven project, Funding Emerging Art with Sustainable Tactics (FEAST) promises to nourish local artists both physical and metaphorically. Under FEAST, visionary artists are asked to propose sustainable projects valuable to the community. Then, FEAST hosts a public supper where informed locals can dine on a delicious “feast” while voting for the proposal they deem worthy of the evening's funding. The last edition's grant winners will be presenting what they did with the funds, including "Party Bus," a traveling haven for MPLS' gender variants and "Public Consumption," a city-wide distribution of collective artwork. Donations will be accepted at the door. And although no one will be turned away from the event due to lack of funds, the donations are for a good cause, so don't be stingy!
Click HERE for info on the night's proposal contenders.
SATURDAY MARCH 13TH
The Parlour Suite / Black Blondie / The Chord and the Fawn
@Turf Club 1601 University Ave W Minneapolis
9pm / 21+ / $6
Get outta that end-of-the-winter slump, with the cheery sound of tambourines, ukeleles, flutes and folk songs! Believe us, the upbeat grooves of happy team, The Parlour Suite, is just the ticket to feelin’ good. This Saturday at the Turf Club, the duo is playing a gig with the girly R&B sounds of Black Blondie and the cheery ukelele tunes of Chord and the Fawn...all of which will make you wish you were lounging in the sun on a beach. A perfect night of folky melodies to ring in the sunshine of spring!
Click HERE for the Turf Club site
Photo of the Parlour Suite by Tim Carlson
SATURDAY MARCH 13TH
The Aquabats, Koo Koo Kangaroo, the Prize Fighters
@ Triple Rock 629 Cedar Ave S Minneapolis
5pm / All Ages / $16
There's no shame in liking ska, and only a little in liking California pop-punk. It doesn't even matter if most of the genre's fans happen to be high-schoolers wearing plaid hats tilted to the side. Enter masked, underdog champions of nerd-core: Aquabat! Currently on tour with Yo Gabba Gabba, (one of the bands members is the show’s creator) the Nintendo-clad super heros will bring their infectious blend of upbeat ska, pop, and punk to the T-Rock with and zany local hip-hop act Koo Koo Kangaroo tonight for an all out party.
You’ve probably only eaten those small pizzas made in the mangy bar oven at the Hex. Tonight, Gastro Non Grata provides six chefs to serve 600 eggs to the sounds of six bands. The night before, egg-slingers from the Modern Café, Sea Change, and D’Amico, among others, will be handed 100 eggs and five pounds of butter to prepare the oval food in every way possible. Overproof will be screenprinting t-shirts too, so bring your own and get it adorned (perhaps with an egg design) for free. All the money made from this eggxcellent event goes to children in Mozambique, so munch those baby chickens confidently, knowing your money is going somewhere good.
@ Red Stag Supper Club 509 1st Avenue NE Minneapolis
11pm / 21+ / Free
A raging dance party in a supper club? You bet! Booty-shakin' professionals Millions Billions and Mønsterbrüsten will tickle your dance-bone with their sexy selection of slammin' trax tonight at the Red Stag. Along with some major dance action, you'll enjoy killer late night happy hour drink specials and cheapie gourmet treats as well as plenty of stylish eye candy.
It's about time we heard more from Berlin's talented hottie, Ellen Allien. As the founder record labels BPitch Control and Memo Musik, producer, and indie-techno goddess, the woman obvs has mad skills when it comes to remixing and creating hard-hitting dancefloor beats. Her latest album, Dust – set to release May 18th on BPitch Control – is packed with more of Allien's signature electroclash style: dirty funk, glitchy dance-rock, scratchy basslines, euphoric synth riffs and ruthless snares paired with German/English vocoder vocals. Besides holding down German's electronic scene, Allien also has a pretty killer fashion sense. In fact, rumor has it she has her own fashion line featuring a spring/summer 2010 collection of airy floral pieces and detailed screenprinted tees.
Save the Date: Imagination Mechanism an interactive fashion party exploring the creative process
Friday, April 23, 2010 / Free 7pm to 11pm (photo shoot styling begins at 7:30pm)
Join l'étoile magazine for a real-time peek inside our creative process! We'll return once again to the Eitel Building's gorgeous Rooftop Sky Park on Loring Park for a stylish, interactive mixer that will invite you to play creative director for a day. Try your hand at designing fashion photo shoot mood boards and story boards with the help of l'étoile staff, then watch as we implement these same processes to create a live fashion photo shoot that will include everything from styling, shooting, retouching, and even editorial layout -- all right before your eyes. Complimentary cocktails and appetizers will be available, along with music from l'étoile DJs. And dress to impress: we'll be giving away prizes to the most "fashion photo ready" attendees! Sponsored by l'étoile magazine, MNFashion and Secrets of the City.
Voltage Tickets on Sale NOW!
Voltage: Fashion Amplified returns to First Avenue on Friday, April 16! An MNfashion production, Voltage is the flagship fashion event held each spring, kicking on MNFashion Week! Filled with a bevy of local fashion design set to the backdrop of rockin' local bands, Voltage is a can't-miss event! For a full lineup of designers and bands, to purchase tickets, and also keep up on Voltage news, teasers and the schedule for the Vintage Voltage Rock Show series held at the 501 Club leading up to the big event at 1st Avenue visit www.voltagefashionamplified.com.
Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson// Contributors: Lacey Prpic Hedtke, Juleana Enright, Lauren Gantner, 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
Envision, SCENEaSOTA and last year‘s Voltage. A traditional seamstress known to spark twinges of nostalgia with her timeless silhouettes and contemporary tailoring, Carmichael’s apparel is the perfect presentation of elegant urban style with hints of Scottish and English sportswear. For her Voltage collection, Carmichael tackles tailored menswear with modern pieces inspired by the literary classic, The Wind in the Willows. No surprise to us; we’ve always seen Toad as quite the distinguished fashion vanguard.
Photo by Stephanie Colgan for Voltage: Fashion Amplified
Photo by Stephanie Hynes for SCENEaSOTA 2009
Photo by Stacy Schwartz / Voltage 2010 Preview
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