.radicals.

Mixing various Art forms and censorship is a recipe for creative disaster. In lieu of films, literary mediums, and visual art being doused in ultra-violence, misogyny, racism, and other topics deemed culturally distasteful with minimal backlash, sporadic bouts of criticism against musicians raise an eyebrow that transcend the categorizations of low and high. As seen in Pitchfork News, Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) had this to say about Tyler, the Creator following a media storm brought on by a monumental VMA Award win. “Tyler and Odd Future are padding their lyrics with anti-gay slurs and dangerous, violent rhetoric. But there is nothing ironically clever about hate speech, particularly when a significant part of those listening are adolescents seeking to emulate their favorite artists,” Matt Kane, GLAAD’s Associate Director of Entertainment Media, continues with, “It’s simply irresponsible and destructive.” Tyler is quoted saying, in response to the continued criticism, “Well, I have gay fans and they don’t really take it offensive, so I don’t know. If it offends you, it offends you…”
In a creative world where freedom of expressions reigns supreme, who is in the wrong? All things considered, opinions and harsh critics meet equal criticisms when Art is involved. Find more about the debate on Pitchfork http://pitchfork.com/news/43851-glaad-denounces-tyler-the-creators-vma-win/.

BW: Ann Demeulemeester

Ann Demeulemeester, member of the legendary Antwerp Six, evokes personality and sexuality and combines the geometric, edgy and avant garde to create distinct pieces. When asked what ‘fashion is’ in a recent interview with Ten Magazine she said, ‘ For me, fashion is communication” and if her line communicates anything it is a unique vision and raw talent. Her latest Fall 2011 RTW collection was haunting, exquisite, and, to my satisfaction, monochromatic-minus a hint of red accented fur. From angular additions to pieces and hanging accessories the dark collection proved that there is never a such as too much black. Will there ever be a ‘new black’? No, and there doesn’t need to be either. If a reminder is ever needed as to why, take a look at any of Ann Demeulemeester’s creations.

Off the runway, however, her garments are a bit more tame. Try this for a Friday night-or any night.

BW: He Said, She Said

“Women think of all colors except the absence of color. I have said that black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute. It is the perfect harmony.”

— Coco Chanel

BW: Reel Love

Woody Allen’s ‘Manhattan’, a tongue-in-cheek and visually stunning romantic dramedy about a hopeless romantic writer dealing with a mid-life crisis and the affections of two vastly different women, is just one of myriad romance films set in New York City. It’s no wonder, it’s a city of beautiful sights and millions of people just waiting to be swept off their feet or knocked head over heels. Outside of the city, though, romance lingers in the reel world and offers an exciting journey for the hopeless romantics, film critics and movie goers…or Netflixers. What’s not to love about love? Especially when you’re not the one dealing with its ups and downs. (We all know it’s worth it, though.)

“I had a mad impulse to throw you down on the lunar surface and commit interstellar perversion.”

BW: La Geode; @abigailsbrain

This short film shot by Theresa Hong in France stars Abigail Tarttelin and Ahty Stellio. The experimental film a dreamscape filled with illusions, reflections and figments of imagination. It was shot in 16mm in Paris, France in 2006. One of my favorite short films, a throwback.

http://www.theresahong.com/

The actress in the film, Abigail, has starred in several other films and, as of recent, is a published author. You can find more about her and her new “”Savage, Witty, Horny & Intoxicating” novel, Flick, on her blog or website.

http://abigailtarttelin.blogspot.com/p/books.html

BW: Accessories Chanel 2011 Collection

The epitome of monochromatic perfection. A few shoes from Chanel’s Fall 2011 collection. A touch of class.

BW: Sagaki Keita

Pardon the language and script barriers, just enjoy the art.

To find more about the Japanese artist:
http://9646ks.jugem.jp/
http://sagakikeita.com/

BW: @Burberry Folding Sunglasses

Bright and monochromatic folding sunglasses from Burberry. That is all.

BW: @SGC_NYC

From skateboard decks to RTW yet totally chic clothing-and even an eye-candy splashed, fashion-forward blog-SGC NY is a go-to spot for funky finds and unique pieces. More than the monochromatic grace their blog, site and shop, though. But, I’ll start there for now.

http://www.sgcny.com/blog/
Follow on twitter @SGC_NYC

For added goodness this morning, or whatever time of day it is where you are, check out this editorial. http://www.sgcny.com/editorial/

BW: Post Secret