Last Thursday night I attended the eclectic opening night of ART VANCOUVER with my friend Rosa – a contemporary art fair now approaching its 9th edition. It’s happening all weekend long at the Vancouver Convention Centre – link below.
Since Art, for the most part, is open for individual interpretation, I guess you can say that there’s something to appeal to everyone’s taste here – or almost everyone.
There was a lot to take in while walking around the large space. I especially enjoyed the unique and interesting sculptures represented. I respect the artistry, even though most were not something I would be interested in purchasing for myself. You’ve got to admire the workmanship that goes into these astounding pieces. Plus, there’s always a story behind them.
By Stefan Rogenmoser
One of my favourite exhibits turned out to be the Bryan Adams & Ape Art from “Save the Chimps Sanctuary” – a 150 acre sanctuary in Florida which offers life-long care for hundreds of chimpanzees rescued from labs, the pet trade, and the entertainment industry. I thought it was both brilliant and philanthropic. Plus, they’re pretty good artists and better than some others I’ve seen.
ART VANCOUVER stands as a testament to the beauty and wonder of contemporary art. Beyond thought-provoking exhibitions and stimulating conversations, the fair fosters an inclusive environment where cultural exchange thrives, strengthening Vancouver’s place as a global hub for contemporary art.
Art photos/video: d. king
See any that grab you?
The Convention Centre is located at Canada Place. Some pics from the outside:
We live in a beautiful city.
Cheers!
Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram: @artvancouver, Facebook: @artvancouverofficial, and X: @Art_Vancouver
I saw this excellent one-woman show last night about taking risks and enjoying the small moments in life and the ride along the way. It’s about the journey in general and our strong striving for some form of connection.
Photo courtesy of Arts Club Theatre.
It resonated with me in the sense that it made me think about the difference between attachment and connection. The main character’s name is Dorothy (played by Susinn McFarlen). Dorothy’s story is based on the playwright’s mother’s life. After losing her husband, she decides to take their RV on the road trip of his retirement dreams: she’s going to Burning Man. After all, it’s only a 21-hour drive to a weeklong culture festival and party with no plumbing in the middle of a desert—how hard can it be? Burning Mom is a stirring odyssey of self-discovery and tale of how art, everlasting roads, and human connection propel her along the way. McFarlen did a wonderful job of entertaining us with stories for over two hours, with one set/costume change after a short intermission.
With Lisa (my sister) celebrating her birthday at SANDBAR before the show. FYI – Sandbar offers 15% off the bill if you’re going to the Arts Club. THAT was a nice surprise! Tisha (our amazing server) took this photo.
My question is – is everyone always trying to find themselves? Are we trying to carve a path that will make us feel whole or make sense out of living? At times, I believe so.
I, myself, have never had a burning (pun intended) desire to go to this festival. It’s not that I’m not curious about Burning Man, and probably once there I’d enjoy it for what it is…but it’s not on my bucket list. Luckily, I’ve crossed a lot of stuff off my personal bucket list. And it’s not a great idea to live someone else’s dream. Although I did live my late mother’s dream trip of going on safari. With my sister no less. What a bittersweet experience that was.
Getting back to the play; the only connection I have to this play is that my late husband had a Eurovan Camper that he loved and that we used a lot. I didn’t love it as much but I ended up enjoying his enjoyment of it. There were many special places we ended up discovering with that little camper. However, after he passed, I tried to keep it and learn how to drive stick shift which didn’t work out so well in the end. I had some similar parking experiences as the performer in this play. Some funny; some not. I ended up selling it. So in essence I was hanging on to it because of his (not my) love of camping. Hanging on to someone else’s love of something is a form of attachment.
Anyway, I was recently discussing the difference between attachment and connection with a friend. The difference lies in their nature and depth. Although I must say that I feel both an attachment and a connection to my dogs.
Attachment often stems from a need or dependency. It can involve clinging to someone or something for comfort, security, or emotional support. While attachment can feel strong, it may be rooted in fear—fear of loss, change, or being alone. It can sometimes create unhealthy dynamics if it becomes possessive or overly dependent.
Connection, on the other hand, is more about mutual understanding, resonance, and genuine presence. It doesn’t rely on need or fear but instead arises from shared experiences, values, and emotional attunement. A connection feels freeing, nurturing, and balanced—it’s about being with someone, not needing to hold on tightly.
Interesting, no? How many things are you attached to and how many are you connected to?
“The past few weeks have been an incredible whirlwind of adventures, unforgettable moments, and unexpected surprises.
I met a fellow Capricorn at KaleidoscopeDesert just outside Joshua Tree.
As I look back, it feels like a vivid tapestry of experiences worth revisiting—and what better way to share them than through this post?”
Big Bird following me:
I visited Kaleidoscope Desert, a one-of-a-kind 5-acre animal and art sanctuary in Yucca Valley, just outside of Joshua Tree. This place is a magical desert artscape where you can meet and mingle with free-roaming animals including a Zebra, Emus, Mini Cows, Mini Horses, Peacocks, a 50-year-old Tortoise, lots of Dogs, Cats, Turkeys, Pigs, Chickens, Guinea Fowl, Guinea Pigs, and more! Everything on the property is donated or repurposed, but all the animals have a purpose.
With my longtime fellow-ex-Montrealer friend Natalia. She lives in L.A. now but came to visit me in Palm Springs. We’re at Azucar restaurant at La Serena Villas.
Natalia with the Hummingbirds:
Of course we can’t leave Palm Springs wthout the annual “Wally’s Desert Turtle” Friday Fashion Luncheon Here with Kathy, Tammy, Mini, Erika, me +Candy.
And I love that the models + musicians walk around the tables.Sheila Hamilton (five-time Emmy Award–winning journalist and author) signing my “PALM SPRINGS” by Assouline hardcover book at “Just Fabulous.” The book is absolutely stunning, as one would only expect from this luxury lifestyle company that produces exceptionally crafted books.
Speaking of Books:
I thoroughly enjoyed joining the “Poolside Pages” book club. Especially with a fabulous group of women (and one man) in Kiki’s lovely home.
“THE SNOWBIRDS” was our last book. So appropriate. Written by an actual Palm Springs Snowbird. Photo: David Wallace Crotty.
Then there were several gatherings in various places for the “Canadians in Bars Getting Cocktails.” We allowed some Americans to join us too.
This was at Canopy Wine Lounge for their “Jungle-theme Party” It was a blast. With Kathy, Tammy, Mini + Ramona. Of course we get silly all the time sometimes.
Friends visiting from Vancouver. My late friend Colleen’s sister with her husband + daughter. By the way, we do eat too. But the cocktails are so good.
Went back to Bar Cecil with Kathy. She had never been. It’s very hard to get a reservation.With Tammy at Tropicale.After attempting for almost two years to get together with both Libby & Megan (they’re busy women), we finally managed to have lunch. Here at the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows. By the way, Orange is the new Black.
Here are the links to the places described here (except Kiki’s house + the Hummingbird location as it’s outside a private residence):
Art Vancouver, Western Canada’s premier contemporary art fair, is returning for its 9th edition from April 24 -27, 2025, at the iconic Canada Place sails (Vancouver Convention Centre East – Hall B). After a successful 8th edition, the 2025 event is set to bring together art lovers, collectors, curators, and creators from around the world to celebrate contemporary art.
Photo: Lisa Wolfin
Offering a curated selection of art from the West Coast and around the globe,Art Vancouver 2025 will continue its tradition of featuring a diverse selection of art, showcasing the talents of local and international exhibitors. The fair offers attendees the unique opportunity to experience innovative works that capture the spirit of the West Coast and International art.
More than an art exhibition, Art Vancouver brings people together. The event provides a space for attendees to discover fresh ideas, engage with gallery owners and artists, and experience the latest trends in contemporary art. With each year gaining more attention and participation, the 2025 edition is set to feature expanded programming, ensuring something exciting for everyone, from art professionals to art lovers.
Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time – Thomas Merton
FROM PARIS to PALM SPRINGS, fashion week welcomed the long awaited comeback of Pierre Cardin. The man famous for pioneering Space Age Designs.
BIENVENUE PIERRE CARDIN
Attending the opening night of Fashion Week on El Paseo was as usual, a blast. This one was literally a blast from the past.
The namesake Pierre Cardin passed away in 2020 at the age of 98. His great-nephew, Rodrigo Basilicati-Cardin, now runs the Pierre Cardin fashion house as its CEO and artistic director. He was in attendance and they brought him on stage at the very end.
Cardin style is iconic for its futuristic, avant-garde approach. The sculptured forms blur the line between fashion and art. I was curious to find out if the fashion week shows in Paris & Palm Springs were the same. As it turns out, the shows between here and there are not the same.
PARIS vs PALM SPRINGS:
While Paris highlighted futuristic innovative fashion, Palm Springs offered a tribute to Cardin’s history and a more intimate, celebratory experience. Both shows reflected the brand’s enduring influence but tailored their presentations to their respective audiences.
The prestigious Paris fashion week focused on the Fall-Winter 2025-2026 Ready-to-Wear collection.It embraced Pierre Cardin’s signature futuristic and space-age aesthetic, featuring geometric shapes, metallic finishes, and innovative materials like sea wool (crafted from recycled oyster shells and plastic bottles). The event was held at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, with a backdrop of the mirrored Geode, reinforcing the space-age theme.
Fashionable Attendees
Fashion Week El Paseo, Palm Springs: In contrast, the Palm Springs show celebrated Cardin’s legacy with a mix of archival Héritage pieces and the Spring 2025 collection. The event had a more nostalgic and community-focused vibe, benefiting local non profits like Shay’s Warriors. It included a special collection, Caftanes Galore of Mérida, crafted from vintage Pierre Cardin scarves, blending retro and modern styles. The desert setting added a unique charm, with models showcasing vibrant, flowy designs under the white tent. Jewelry by Stephanie Lake. Benefiting Shay’s Warriors – Life After Cancer.
Jere Ring plays the piano and sings…but in a nutshell, he’s an all-around entertainer, comedian and storyteller whose talent has introduced him to an extraordinary life.
Photo: Candy “Sunshine” Glickman
Last season in Palm Springs, I met Ring at the opening of the old-Hollywood-style boutique hotel, The Velvet Rope. The gorgeous oasis pays homage to Palm Springs’ Hollywood roots with 9 rooms decked out to embody the vibe of a bygone era. When movie stars were movie stars and mystery prevailed. One of the rooms was dedicated to talented over-the-top entertainer, Liberace. Sidenote: I took my mom to see Liberace perform in Montreal when none of my other friends even knew who he was. Women loved Liberace. Did they know he loved them too?….but loved men more? Didn’t it seem obvious with all that glitter and bling? Throughout his life, he never made his gayness public knowledge. Must say, he was extremely charming.
Anyway, my friend Candy noticed Jere sitting at an outside table in conversation with some people. She’d seen him at social gatherings before, although she never spoke with him. She said his claim to fame was something to do with Liberace and thought that he might be the person who Matt Damon portrayed (Scott Thornson) in the movie “Behind the Candelabra” to Michael Douglas’s Liberace. She suggested we go meet him. So we did.
Turns out that he is not the no longer living Scott Thorson, Liberace’s complicated out-of-control lover who wrote about the relationship and later ended up in prison.
These pics below I took from a recent visit to Jere + Johnny’s home:
With lifetime partner Johnny Jaqua
Jere quickly explained to us that his connection with Liberace (or Lee, as Liberace was called to those close to him) was strictly professional, not personal. In other words, they were not lovers and never were. Liberace discovered Ring and turned him into his protégé. Jere is an entertainer who plays piano, tells stories and is naturally charismatic and funny. He became lifelong friends with Liberace, travelling around and accompanying him onstage for many shows over many years. And needless to say, he has countless stories about his experiences with the fabulously famous and infamous people he’s met along the way. He wrote a book that’s become a ‘cult-favorite’ called “IF THE SHOE FITS, BUY TWO.”
To be honest, I had the book for almost a year before actually reading it. But once I did, I couldn’t put it down. The hilarious stories and juicy gossip, vaguely reminiscent of Truman Capote’s scandalous unfinished novel “unfinished prayers.” However, Jere’s is more about his personal life and experiences with high-profile (and some low-profile but colorful) people instead of betrayal by exposing secrets and therefore enduring social exile. Many of the people he writes about are no longer around, but Jere’s still here, and people love him.
We met up with Ring again recently for lunch at his office; namely Spencer’s restaurant – his home away from home.
Recently at Spencer’s Restaurant. One of our favorite places.
Those of you familiar with Liberace will know that he always ended his show with his signature sentimental theme song “I’LL BE SEEING YOU“…
Jere’s First Review:
Written by Forrest Duke for the Las Vegas Review Journal:
“Liberace, noted for his many discoveries, including Barbra Streisand (he gave the talented actress/singer a significant career boost by inviting her to perform as part of his act in Las Vegas in 1963) has booked his newest discovery, Jere Ring, for an engagement at Liberace’s Tivoli Gardens restaurant. Jere will open his Las Vegas debut on Sunday, July 17, in the piano lounge. Ray Arnett, who stages Liberace’s spectaculars, heard about Ring, a popular performer, and his accomplishments as a piano singer. Ray passed the word on to Liberace who had Jere jet to Las Vegas for an audition. That did it! A new Las Vegas star was born.”
Then Life with Lee….and so many other fabulous friends. From encounters with Oprah, Jackie Onassis and the Gabor sisters to dinner at Lucille Ball’s home, escorting Ginger Rogers to an opera and entertaining on countless cruise ships…his story telling is never boring! As Liza Minnelli would say (he’s met her twice and has a funny story) – “never hang around dull people.”
Cheers to Life!
As you may have guessed; Jere Ring is anything but dull.
We’d be dripping in diamonds and dancing to disco music at the Ritz!
The Rancho Mirage Woman’s Club sure know how to throw a great FUNraiser.
The Rancheras held a fundraising luncheon last week at the gorgeous Ritz Carlton hotel. They raise money for various non-profits around the Coachella Valley. This one was dedicated to the advancement and education of youth in the community.
It started off with a champagne reception, amazing silent auction items and photo booth from “party life.”
The coveted “disco ball” purse.
Followed by a lovely 3-course lunch and dancing to disco music (provided by DJ Mod Girl), and Entertainment by Curtis & Beverly of Palm Springs Ballroom.
When you crave something sweet but don’t care to ingest crappy ingredients, these energy balls are packed with sweet goodness with their satisfying combo of cacao, peanut butter and coconut.
This simple, guilt-free recipe could be called a triple-crown delight just made that up because of being 1) easy to assemble 2) delicious and, best of all 3) they’re healthy! The only down side is that it can get messy…but in a finger lickin good way.
I bought a package recently at a health food store when I was feeling low energy and craving something sweet. You wouldn’t believe how many things I wanted to have but ended up putting back before I bought these. Because when you start reading labels in the dessert isle, you’ll probably end up being turned off of eating that piece of cake or pie you just put into your food basket. I tell you, reading about the ingredients spoils all the fun. But choosing wisely will end up making you feel better, literally. When I got home and looked at the ingredients on the packaging again, I thought “I can make these.” So I looked up recipes and used *cacao instead of chocolate chips (although you can decide to use those if you prefer).
Instead of using only rolled oats, I used a combo of organic, old-fashioned whole grain rolled oats & Trader Joe’s organic rolled oats with ancient grains (amaranth flakes, quinoa flakes, chia seeds, and ground flax seeds) for a chewier consistency.
Instead of using only peanut butter, I mixed organic creamy peanut butter with “ArtisanaOrganics” Cashew Cacao Spread (has organic coconut MCT oil). Even this alone on a piece of toast is scrumptious.
kept the packaging from what I bought and put some of mine inside
*The difference between “Cacao” and “Cocoa“
“Cacao” refers to the raw, unprocessed beans from the cacao tree, while “cocoa” is the result of processing those beans, typically involving roasting and grinding them into a powder, meaning cocoa is a more processed form of cacao; essentially, cacao is the starting material and cocoa is the finished product after processing.
In between going out to certain functions or get-togethers where we tend to not always eat the healthiest, at home I do my best healthwise by choosing organic as much as possible, phasing out red meat and keeping it simple, but always tasty. Rarely do I follow a recipe unless it’s to do with baking.
Here’s something I never thought I’d make – Cauliflower Steak! Are you kidding me? I heard about it, but only experienced eating it recently at a health food store for lunch, and it was surprisingly delicious, so I decided to try making it at home. I never even used to like cauliflower.
love cooking with a cast iron pan.
Of all the vegetables out there, cauliflower has probably been my least favourite. When assembled as part of a veggie/dip tray, I usually bypass it. I find the taste on its own very bland, but I know it’s good for me. It’s packed with antioxidants like sulforaphane (which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals) and essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as folate, potassium, and magnesium. Who knew it was such a powerhouse? Certainly not me. It’s not even green coloured!
So off to Clarks Nutrition (I love this family-owned store) I go, and pick up a nice organic head of Cauliflower. Then located a site called healthyrecipesblogs.com (link to recipe below) and found out that there is not exactly a recipe per se, but more of variations on a theme, which I love. I followed the directions for cutting the cauliflower as such:
Wash the cauliflower heads, remove the outer leaves, and trim the very bottom of the core, keeping it intact. Slice each cauliflower head into ¾-inch-thick slices. It’s normal for some florets will fall off.
OK; so you cut it to resemble the look of a steak as close as possible, considering it’s nothing like an actual steak. Image from “healthyrecipesblog”
But wow; can it morph into so many different flavours when cooked. I didn’t want to try making it just one way; so I tried three variations and they were all delicious. You can season them any way you like so it’s fun experimenting. I did one with only olive oil + balsamic vinegar. The balsamic ends up caramelizing which is great. Another way was with fresh lemon juice + tahini. Another had smoked paprika as a main spice. I enjoyed all three ways.
Goes like this:
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with nonstick foil or high-heat-resistant parchment paper and spray it with olive oil. I prefer parchment paper.
Arrange the steaks in a single layer on the baking sheet. Scatter the florets (that have fallen off from cutting) around them. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle them with half the seasonings.
Bake the cauliflower slices for 15 minutes. Remove them from the oven, carefully flip them using two wide spatulas, add more oil, and sprinkle them with the remaining spices.
Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake it until browned and fork-tender, 10-15 more minutes. Serve immediately.
A nice side salad and dinner is served!
Have you tried it? Have a recipe you’d like to share?
A very vintage weekend it was. Part of Modernism Week, The Curated Vintage Event on Saturday, is a twice-yearly pop-up show highlighting exceptional vintage fashion, jewelry, textiles and accessories. On Sunday, there was the once-a-year Mod Yard Sale which moved from outside h3k home design, to Market Market (which has repurposed & one of a kind goods.)
If you’re looking for a quick fashion fix, fast fashion can be found in many stores and on countless websites. You might find what you’re looking for, but will it stand the test of time?
At the monthly Palm Springs Vintage Market with Dylan, Kathy + Trudy (with her dog).
Many women are mixing it up with their wardrobes by buying vintage garments that are 20 to 30 years old and in good condition. These pieces have timeless appeal and are typically characterized by their quality craftsmanship, unique styles, and designer labels which have stood the test of time. These vintage finds often evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflect the fashion trends and cultural influences of their time. Some never go out of style. Plus, each piece often has its own story and history, adding a special charm to one’s wardrobe. So, when you wear vintage, it’s like stepping into a little piece of history!
Jen from Muse the Shop holding up a lovely Pucci silk dress I had my eyes on.Last year I bought this silk Pucci dress from Jen. I love the neckline.Lady at the vintage market wearing what appears to be a nightie as a slip dress under a leopard-print jacket.Lingerie inspired slip-dress or maybe it’s a nightiefrom Rachel @ Macalistaire Vintage – a favorite vendor.
Another good thing is that vintage fashion supports a more sustainable approachto dressing. It encourages consumers to buy fewer, higher-quality pieces that last longer, reducing the overall environmental impact of fast fashion.
Kathy outside Villa Royale
If you’re fairly new to vintage shopping but have a good eye, look for basic outstanding classics such as tailored blazers, linen shirts, cashmere sweaters, little black dresses, leather handbags (Chanel 2.55 is a perfect example), worn-in denim, sunglasses (Iconic styles like aviators and cat-eye sunglasses add a touch of retro flair to any look) and trench coats (Burberry for instance has a timeless appeal. The reliable craftsmanship ensures that each coat is built to last). These are investment pieces.
Fashionable friends Joselle + Joan
And above all, have fun perusing through the racks and pick out something special. Be careful of knockoffs though (unless you know and don’t mind). Some of those can be fun too, but make sure it’s not passed off as the real thing. It should come with a card or something that shows authentication. I love some of the costume jewelery too.
Enjoy the search and even though you own what you wear; wear it your own way. Enjoy the thrill of the find.
PS: On my last visit to the monthly vintage market I picked up a promo card advertising the next curated vintage event during Modernism Week (I’ve since been). Got home and the card fell on the floor. When I picked it up, imagine my surprise when I noticed that on the other there was my photo with style icon Tziporah Salamon “THE ART OF DRESSING.” I’m wearing A Pucci blouse I bought from Mitchells Palm Springs (Mitchell organizes the yearly curated event at Temple Isaiah). His shop has tons of Pucci.
A toast to the Ladies who Lunch. After the Curated Event we went to Trio’s restaurant.
Loved what Kiki was wearing against the restaurant art piece.
When was the last time you went vintage shopping? It’s a bit different from consignment (which can encompass everything from all types of gently used clothing styles to high quality fairly new styles including some vintage, depending on the store).
Girl Who Would be KING on Life, Style and INSPIRATION. 
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