Since its inception in 1967, the Montreux jazz festival in Switzerland has hosted a dizzying array of musical talent from the world of jazz and beyond: Ella Fitzgerald, David Bowie and Miles Davis, and more recently Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga and Stormzy. The names behind its poster designs are equally illustrious, including Andy Warhol, Keith … Read more
Although the term “Asian American” is now commonly used, it is relatively new, having been coined in 1968 by UC Berkeley activists Emma Gee and Yuji Ichioka. They created the term to provide an umbrella identity for their student organization, the Asian American Political Alliance. The term gained popularity as it replaced the derogatory term … Read more
Billie Zizi’s music is a testament to her unique blend of influences and her willingness to push boundaries in her artistry. With each album, she continues to evolve and showcase her talent as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist. ‘Levitate’ is a reflection of her growth and creativity, offering listeners a captivating and immersive experience that … Read more
London-based visual artist Diana Meridi occupies a unique space in contemporary art by intertwining personal, philosophical, and mystical themes in her work. Her pieces transcend mere visuals, creating intricate spaces that draw viewers into a world rich with symbols and profound meanings. At the core of her art lies the motif of the eye, symbolizing … Read more
Is there anything more heartbreaking than the sight of an empty bed belonging to a child who may never return? This question arises from the unveiling of a 100ft mural in the Little Ukraine neighborhood of Lower Manhattan, New York, which highlights the abduction of 19,546 Ukrainian children by Russia. The mural, titled Empty Beds, … Read more
The Caspian Sea is a vast body of water bordered by Iran to the south, Russia to the north, Azerbaijan to the west, and Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan to the east. Growing up along its shores, Javanmardi has seen first-hand the decline of this once-thriving lake due to unregulated exploitation, pollution, overfishing, and the impacts of … Read more
Keep yourself updated with complimentary notifications Just subscribe to the Life & Arts myFT Digest — sent directly to your email inbox. The protagonist in Coriolanus, currently showing at the National Theatre in London, can be described as a fascist by today’s standards. He values very little outside of military service and resents the common … Read more
“After three years of closure for renovations, the Grand Palais in Paris has reopened as the epicenter of the contemporary art world, hosting Art Basel Paris. One of the featured artists, Oliver Beer, discusses his sound-inspired pieces and the Resonance Project, which has influenced installations, paintings, and even an operatic film experience. The fair has … Read more