Brendan Murphy touches down at Contessa Gallery

Time and Space intersect in fascinating ways for artist Brendan Murphy

Bonnji spaceman

Boonji Spaceman

For those familiar with artist Brendan Murphy’s fascination with Space, the opportunity to meet him and see his latest creations is worth noting.  Rumor has it Brendan may be touching down on Worth Avenue later this month!

The much anticipated 7-foot Boonji spaceman sculpture which was unveiled at Art Miami during Art Basel will be on view at Contessa.  The well-received life-size sculpture continues to attract quite a bit of social media attention #MeetMeAtTheSpaceman.  Other highlights of the exhibit include Brendan’s chalkboard portrait series and the DNA fingerprints.

Pushing the walls of creativity

Well known to collectors from Art Basel to Silicon Valley, artist Brendan Murphy trained under Eric Fischl, Ross Bleckner and David Salle.  Murphy pushes the walls of creativity beyond the confines of the canvas.  He explores sculpture work, concept pieces, and a wide range of different materials and tools.  In doing so, Brendan has developed his own style, a definitively dynamic mix of the abstract and figurative form.  Brendan currently works from his studios in Malibu, California and Brooklyn, New York.  His work is represented in over 500 private collections and has been featured in museums and galleries around the world.

Fascination

Each of Murphy’s works maintain a consistent exploration of color, language and symbols. Thematically, the artist explores the interplay of beauty, power and the need to understand the energies of life. Murphy is particularly inspired by art’s potential to transmit positive energy, and the effect that the positive energy has on society.

Brendan Murphy exhibit at Contessa Gallery

Contessa Gallery has many of Brendan’s unique pieces on exhibit at their new Palm Beach location at 247 Worth Avenue.  Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday by appointment.  Rumor has it Brendan will be making a special appearance later this month.  To score a possible invitation to meet Brendan, contact Contessa Gallery Owner, Steve Hartman at 216.956.2825.

To make an appointment for a personal tour with Steve or for more detailed information about the gallery, its artists, exhibition history, art fair schedule and philanthropic support, please visit:   http://contessagallery.com/ via email: Steve@contessagallery.com

 

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Direct from St. Barth’s
Meet Katja Bentzen

Katja Bentzen- A St. Barth’s Staple comes to Palm Beach

St. Barth’s regulars who are ‘in the know’ have three things they absolutely must do during their visit to the fashionable destination:  Pick up food to go at Mayas for a picnic in Colombier or Saline; enjoy lunch and several bottles of rosé at La Plage and a visit to the Cheval Blanc Isle de France Hotel to purchase one of Katja’s latest creations.  Coming home from St. Barth’s without a new signature leather and pearl piece is absolutely out of the question for many of us!  Though Irma has made a dent in our plans this year to visit St. Barth’s, the good news is Katja Bentzen is coming to South Florida end of January and staying with me for a couple of weeks!

Shades of Grey, White, Champagne and more

Katja has been the exclusive supplier of exquisite pearl, mother of pearl and vermeil creations to the Cheval Blanc Isle de France (formerly Hotel Isle de France) for the last 15 years.  Katja uses only the best pearls from Tahiti and the South Seas with AAA lustre and shine, which she personally selects during her regular trips to the islands.  Katja imports the finest quality supple leather from Australia which she hand prepares for each piece she creates.

I thought I had died and gone to heaven when I visited Katja at her studio in St. Barth’s— a pearl lover’s paradise!  My boyfriend spent close to two hours selecting the perfect shades of grey resulting in my favorite piece ever: the perfect Tahitian pearl and leather necklace.

About Katja Bentzen

Katja was born in Sweden and after moving to several countries with her family, she ended up in the Canary Islands, where her

Mother of Pearl Clover Collection

desire to go sailing and traveling was born. She was originally trained in London to restore antique kilims tapestry and it was here that her interest for jewelry and fashion blossomed. Katja spent her winters between the islands of St Barth’s and Antigua and summers in Newport RI, where she worked for the Restoration Society bringing rugs and tapestries back to life for the mansions on Ocean Drive. She used the knotting techniques for restoring these tapestries to create her pearl jewelry.Whilst sailing around the oceans Katja discovered the pearls from Tahiti and the South Seas and began using them to create the pearl jewelry that she is so renowned for today.

Vermeil Collection

 

Katja Bentzen at Milou Pop Up at International Polo Club and Palm Beach

She’s already been snapped up by Lourdes de Guardiola who will be showcasing select pieces at Milou’s pop up at International Polo Club from January 15-January 28 and February 5- 18th.  Lourdes’s curated collection will include pieces from both Katja’s clover and vermeil lines.

Pearl aficionados will also have the opportunity to meet Katja, select their favorite pearls and request a customized design tailored specifically for them.

Other trunk shows in Wellington and Worth Avenue are still in the planning.  For more information on trunk shows or for private appointments, join Milou’s mailing list or email me.

 

 

 

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Le Rosey in Palm Beach
Summer Camp Presentations

Le Rosey- a household name in Palm Beach

As a Rosey alumnus (class of ’76), parent of two alumni and Florida Rep, I am once again thrilled to welcome Nathalie Eynard, Associate Director of Admissions of Le Rosey back to Palm Beach!  During her last visit three years ago, my dear friend and Rosey parent, Marzia Precoda opened her beautiful home to host an informative tea for Academy of the Palm Beach’s parents and children.  The result? Eight students signed up on the spot for various summer programs, four of which chose Le Rosey to continue their academic studies.  With a growing number of students from Palm Beach currently enrolled in either its academic or summer programs, Institut Le Rosey has clearly become a household name in Palm Beach!

Adriana Burger is a mother of four with her two youngest at Palm Beach Day Academy; eldest daughter graduated from Le Rosey last year and is currently at McGill University, and eldest son is a senior at Le Rosey this year. “Le Rosey gives its students the opportunity of looking at the world with changed eyes, opening their mind to the challenges of multicultural societies, maintaining strong values and ethics as the core of their lives, present and future since once a Roséen, always a Roséen,” says Adriana Burger,

Summer Camps: More than an Adventure in the Alps

Le Rosey offers 5 very different camp programs located on two different campuses:  the ‘Chateau’ campus on the shores of Lake Geneva and the Alpine campus located in Gstaad, in the middle of the Swiss Alps.  Hiking in the Swiss Alps, water-skiing on Lake Geneva, horse-riding through the forest, discovery trips and excursions are just some of the daily activities offered to campers. Students may also opt to develop artistic abilities, hone their musical or theatrical skills in the state of the art Paul & Henri Carnal Hall; learn a new language or focus on improving SAT scores.

Most importantly, Le Rosey Camps offer the opportunity to experience a glimpse of the Rosey spirit, become more independent, forge lifelong friendships and of course, have fun in a short couple of weeks. A unique experience in true Rosey style! 

Click here for more information on the five different camps

Scheduling a time with Nathalie Eynard

Nathalie Eynard, Director of Admissions for Le Rosey will be in Miami from February 1st to 4th, and Palm Beach from February 4th-7th.  Nathalie will answer questions pertaining to summer camp programs as well as Rosey’s  boarding school academic curriculum.  To attend a scheduled presentation or to request a private appointment, please call 561 833 8283 or email Nathalie or Maribel

Click here to view pictures from 2017 Le Rosey Alumni reunion

 

 

 

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Palm Beach Winter Games
Benefiting FIRST SERVE

Inaugural Palm Beach Winter Games to benefit First Serve

The premiere of the Palm Beach Winter Games, hosted at the Breakers, promises to be one of the season’s most exciting new events. This three-day event has something for everyone, especially in benefiting First Serve, which is a nonprofit organization that inspires high-risk children to realize their full potential.

If you are a golf or tennis aficionado, here is an opportunity to play with world-renowned pros and Olympians. The Pro-Am Doubles Tennis Tournament offers a chance to play with both Grand Slam Champions and former top-ranked touring pros in a friendly, yet competitive, round-robin format at the exclusive Breaker’s tennis courts.

John Lloyd

Former Wimbledon Champion and Tennis Ambassador John Lloyd

The Sports Celebrity Golf Tournament will pair you with sports celebrities, such as former NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL players, pro golfers and tennis professionals at the magnificent Ocean Course at The Breakers. Prizes will also be awarded to teams and individuals.

If you prefer to dance the night away, the First Serve Sports Night Gala is billed as “not your grandfather’s gala!” You’ll be able to mingle with sports celebrities and Olympians, while enjoying gourmet food and specialty drink stations.  Restaurants participating include  Meat Market Palm Beach , Imoto, Buccan, Rocco’s Tacos, Sant Ambroeus and Bolay  The nightclub-inspired venue will also have live music and an in-house DJ. Junior Tickets are available for those under 40!

For you fashionistas, check out the Tennis Luncheon and Fashion Show officially sponsored by Cosmo & Company, which in addition to doing hair and make-up for the models, their team of experts will offer a touch-up station for guests.   Guests will also enjoy a fabulous lunch served by the Breakers and walk away with a Tennis swag bag.

Two-time Australian Open Champion, Johan Kriek, First Serve Board Member, Sandra Shaw, Paul and Joanie Van der Grift.

This three-day event runs January 12-15. In addition, there are individual and package opportunities for the different events.  Click here to view ticket prices.

Giving to the Community through FIRST SERVE

The best part of the Palm Beach Winter Games is your participation with the benefit First Serve. Their mission is to help high-risk children through various programs, including sports, education, mentoring, and interaction with law enforcement officials. First Serve endeavors to break the cycle of crime and poverty, helping children transcend their circumstances and transform their lives.

Participants and sponsors will have the opportunity to meet the children First Serve supports and inspires. The Palm Beach Winter Games will be bringing together a vast community; sponsors, local businesses, and volunteers across a wide-scale of activities, within a truly a community-based effort for good.

Click here for sponsorship Information or email Annie to request a customized package.

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Worth Ave’s Enchanted Way
VIA ENCANTADA

VIA ENCANTADA–Where Elegance and Trendy meet on Worth Avenue

Via Encantada, or ‘The Enchanted Way’ lies nestled in the heart of what is arguably one of the nation’s most exclusive shopping destinations– Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue.  Property owner, art collector, and Warhol muse, Jane Holzer, makes sure this Via has a whole different vibe; from understated elegance to trendy and hip.

Elegantly framed by stylishly understated Italian fashion houses, Brioni, Loro Piana, and fashion-forward  French sister boutiques Sandro and Maje, Jane Holzer has personally curated a delightful shopping experience where old world charm meets contemporary and pop.

Italian Perfection

Everyone knows BRIONI is synonymous with BESPOKE and BEST-DRESSED.  Professional athletes, celebrities, and industry leaders alike know the brand set meticulous standards for its craft, and turn to the Master Tailors of Brioni for a polished Bespoke look.  They know that the Brioni Tailors’ artistry is imbued in all the unseen details that distinguish Brioni garments.  Brioni’s meticulous standards are matched by their unrivaled personalized service, making every visit a memorable experience.

It’s hard to beat ‘the look, the craftsmanship and the feel’ of anything Loro Piana.  One of the world’s leading manufacturers of fine fabrics, renowned for taking wool and cashmere to an exceptional level of fineness and quality, Loro Piana is also a favorite of the well-heeled man.  The quietly elegant man demanding quality and comfort will choose timeless Loro Piana walk loafers as the finishing touch to his travel wardrobe.

French Flair

French fashion-forward women’s boutiques, Sandro and Maje are the brainchild of two creative sisters, Evelyn and Judith.  Sandro features a more classical, timeless line of clothing and Maje features more flirty and edgy designs.  Both lines range from daywear to evening, crafted with an eye for detail and the finest fabrics such as silk and French lace. The two brands are well-known for silhouettes with a formal feminine but oh so Parisian casual edge!  Local loyals count on Marcella Teper and Demetrius Mickens to keep them up to speed on new arrivals and timely sales.  (BIG SALE going on right now!)

Via Encantada Revealed

The charming corridor with its whimsical chandeliers leads visitors to the newly opened Contessa Gallery where a display of eclectic art immediately catches your eye.  The wide open doors to the sun-filled airy space and owner Steve Hartman’s friendly warm smile, make it a ‘must stop in and look‘ kind of place.

A pink-painted staircase and large-scale Will Ryman rose sculpture marks the entrance to Sarah Gavlak’s recently expanded art gallery and beckons art lovers to further explore.  Gavlak Gallery, one of the most respected galleries in Palm Beach, has been Via Encantada’s destination for art lovers and collectors since it moved from West Palm Beach in 2008.

Fabrikant and Miller- Hidden Jewel

Discreetly nestled between the galleries at the foot of the whimsical staircase is Fabrikant and Miller.  Co-owner Craig Miller has deservedly earned iconic status on Worth Avenue.  Miller’s début at Cartier in 1993 resulted in being ‘poached’ by Van Cleef & Arpels, and subsequently by the houses of Bulgari and Graff.  Craig specializes in buying and selling estate jewelry, watches and diamonds.   After 24 years it’s about more than his expertise; it’s  about the personal relationships, the trust Craig’s earned and his discretion that sets this private salon apart.

 

 

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Black River Caviar & Schramsberg Vineyards
A Marriage Made in Napa

Black River Caviar and Schramsberg Vineyards

This fall brought us a match made in heaven, or in this case, Napa: Black River Caviar and Schramsberg Vineyards.   Napa Valley Entertaining is a beautifully illustrated table book showcasing Napa Valley gatherings, as well as serving as a hostess’s guide to adding a touch of wine country flair to entertaining. The author Blakesley Chappellet, with photographer Briana Marie, chronicles décor, recipes, and perfect wine pairings that make Napa Valley unforgettable. Black River Caviar and Schramsberg Vineyards are among the perfect partnerships highlighted.napa entertaining with black river caviar

“All of Schramsberg’s sparkling wines pair wonderfully with Black River Caviar,” says Graham C. Gaspard, President of Black River Caviar. Their Brut Rosé, however, is his personal favorite. Schramsberg brilliantly crafts the Rosé from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; they handpick as well as meticulously press the grapes in order to provide the best possible taste. Furthermore, the wine gives just the right amount of acidity to compliment Black River’s equally high-quality, and flavorful, sturgeon roe.

Schramsberg Vineyard Holiday Savings

Just in time for the holiday season, Hugh and Monique Davies (proprietors of both Davies Vineyards and Schramsberg Vineyards) have an exclusive offer for “Friends of Black River Caviar.” There will be 1 cent ground shipping on orders of $139 or more with the coupon code “BLKRIVER” at checkout.

Click here to shop now and use coupon code BLKRIVER at checkout

Also, take note of the recommended shipping deadlines for Schramsberg Vineyard shipments:

  • Residents from states that are north, south and east of Missouri,
    place ground shipping orders by:
    New Year’s Eve – 12/19

  • Residents from states in the Northwest to Texas,
    place ground shipping orders by:
    New Year’s Eve – 12/21

  • California residents must place ground shipping orders by:
    Christmas – 12/17       New Year’s Eve – 12/25

Black River Caviar Holiday Savings

Black River Caviar is offering free shipping on all orders of $350 or more with the coupon code “ELF” at checkout. Click here to place your Black River Caviar order on line.  The product is locally available in Palm Beach at Mary Mahoney on Worth Avenue.

 

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Mr. Brainwash designs Contessa Gallery Booth at Art Miami

Mr. Brainwash booth blockbuster attraction at Art Miami

Contessa Gallery will be participating in the 28th annual Art Miami Fair, December 5- December 10. Contessa Gallery will hosts two booths, one entirely dedicated to Mr. Brainwash’s electrifying works. The brilliant artist will design the booth, and it is sure to be a blockbuster attraction at Art Miami.  Mr. Brainwash began his artistic career over 17 years ago documenting the underground world of street artists. His artistic evolution is chronicled in the Academy Award nominated documentary, Exit Through the Gift Shop, directed by Banksy. Known for his stylistic combination of pop and street art, Brainwash creates his works by fiercely fusing together historical pop imagery with contemporary cultural iconography.

 

Contessa Gallery sets up roots on Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue

Steve Hartman, current President of FADA (Fine Art Dealers Association) and owner of internationally renowned Contessa Gallery, experienced first-hand the depth of the local Palm Beach area arts and cultural scene when he experimented with a West Palm Beach satellite gallery last year.   This year a unique opportunity fell into his lap:  A high-prized locale on Worth Avenue belonging to well-known art collector and Andy Warhol muse, Jane Holzer (AKA Baby Jane)  unexpectedly became available.  Contessa Gallery is up and running at 247 Worth Avenue (former Calypso space).

Contessa Gallery’s Current Featured Exhibit

Currently on display is a specially curated collection of works by leading contemporary artists, including a very extensive selection by pop and street art sensation, Mr. Brainwash. Contessa Gallery is excited to showcase the artist’s continual revolutionary experimentation with new techniques, media, materials and subject matter. The Palm Beach gallery also features major artwork by Chuck Close, Hanneke Beaumont, David Drebin,Hijack, Gilles Cenazandotti, Cayla Birk., Jasper Johns, Louise Nevelson, Daniele Sigalot (Blue and Joy), Tom Wesselmann and most recently, Brendan Murphy.

“The response we’ve seen to our presence in the South Florida art scene is off the charts. We’ve experienced a phenomenal welcome from Collectors.  We think our highly curated collection of impressive artists will continue to attract important patrons.” explains Steve Hartman.

 

 

For detailed information, contact Steve Hartman at 216-956-2825 or via email: art@contessagallery.com

 Art Miami (December 6-10)

One Herald Plaza at NE 14th Street on Biscayne Bay.  Contessa Gallery’s booths for Art Miami 2017 are #A137a & #A137b.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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SANDRO’s HIGHLIGHT Capsule Collection
brings to life Paris by Night

Sandro’s new HIGHLIGHT Capsule collection Brings life to Paris by Night

Picture Paris at Dusk.  As the moon rises, Sandro’s new Highlight capsule collection, presents an evening wardrobe with all the lighting effects you’ll need. The Highlight collection plays on the dreams and desires of a starry night where chic femininity shines.

Tis the season!  The Holidays often turn to thoughts of luxury, and Sandro’s Highlight collection doesn’t disappoint with 15 silhouettes to slip into Sandro Highlight eveningas evening falls.

In shades of black, silver and white, geometric shapes and volumes rub shoulder to shoulder with asymmetries. Pleats and frills bring twists and turns to a silhouette wrapped in feminine touches of light. The look is formal, but with an oh-so Parisian casual edge. The lustrous moiré of a draped bustier is fitted to a full-circle skirt in iridescent voile. Silvery sequins find the limelight on a shawl-collar smoking jacket, worn over a short skirt in draped lurex. A white top with gigot sleeves contrasts with the deep black of a skirt enhanced with an asymmetric frill. A dress with its collar and shoulders embellished with pearl beads reveals a mesh bib-front, with a generous box pleat at the back. Lace and brocade capture the final glow of Paris at dusk.

Accentuate your Holiday wardrobe

Stop in at Sandro to see how the right accessory can ‘effortlessly’ transform the simplest outfit-the French way.   Effortless Parisian charm – Très chic.

Available at Sandro 247 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach  Tel 561 650 0371

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Black River Caviar adds to
Superior Oscietra Collection

Imperial and Master Selections in time for the Holidays

Just in time for the Holiday season, Black River Caviar’s recently introduced Imperial and Master grades to its exceptional Oscietra selection.  Locally available at Mary Mahoney store on Worth Avenue, they represent the top tier in a four-category scale in quality for Oscietra sturgeon roe. According to the Master’s classifications, physical appearance is part of the proof of truly exceptional caviar. Whereas Tradition caviar measures at approximately 2.9 mm, its colors graded from black to light brown, Master Selection caviar measures at 3.2 mm, ranging colors from golden to exceedingly light brown.

Tradition – medium sized, darker colored eggs, rich nutty taste.
Royale – medium-large sized, slightly lighter color, rich nutty taste.
Imperial – large sized, light colored eggs, perfect appearance and taste.
Master Selection – the lightest, largest eggs with special qualities as dened
by the Black River Caviar Master.

The Black River Caviar Tradition

It’s a family business. The Alcalde family business, and it’s turned into an international enterprise that celebrates superior quality in every aspect of it. From the unique care of their breeding process to the immaculate service and presentation, Black River Caviar’s sturgeon roe strives to deliver a natural and flavorful high-quality experience.

The world-renowned Esturiones del Rio Negro has been farming their products in Uruguay since 1996. The roe is made and exported by request, and it is cultivated within the standards set by the Black River Caviar Master. These standards include size, color, firmness and texture, and of course the flavor and taste in respect to saltiness.

Request an Order

Black River Caviar’s ultimate goal is excellence, and that includes giving their clients nothing but an absolute quality experience. Because these exclusive products are available locally, you can request an order from Mary Mahoney by calling (1)561.655.8288.

 

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18th Annual Watch Fair Coming to Hamilton Jewelers

Rare and Elegant Watches Featured at Hamilton Jewelers at The Gardens Mall 

Every November, TIME stops for the watch enthusiasts and collectors of Palm Beach County. The highly anticipated Hamilton Jeweler’s Annual International Watch Fair is back again.

Eighteen years ago, Hamilton was the first jeweler to introduce the Watch Fair concept to the retail environment. The annual two-day Watch Fair will showcase thousands from their newest collections and limited editions. Designer watch brands will be available at Hamilton Jewelers (Gardens Mall location) on Friday, November 17th and Saturday November 18th.

Some brands to look forward to in men’s and ladies’ styles are Breitling, Cartier, Hermes, Patek Philippe, Panerai, Jaeger Le-Coultre, IWC, and Chanel. In light of the two-day affair, Brand Ambassadors are flying in to attend the fair, and will address any questions. In addition, experts will provide immediate evaluation of your existing timepieces. Not only will Hamilton Jewelers be offering special financing terms, but they will also be providing special gifts with your purchase.

Hours of the Fair

Hours of the International Watch Fair are:

  • Friday, November 17th from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 18th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Another event taking place on Saturday, November 18th, from 12 noon to 5 p.m, is a “Taste of Switzerland,” complete with craft beers, sparkling wine, cheeses and chocolates. For more information, call 561.775.3600.

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