#solow building

[fixfoto]

Fifth Avenue / Central Park South - 59th Street

Grand Army Plaza, Central Park Southeast corner, who consists of two symmetrical plazas bisected by 59th Street. On the southern side stands the (Pulitzer Fountain) and on the northern side is the gilded monument to Union General William Tecumseh Sherman.

(Plaza Hotel Behind The Solow Building. Far Right: 220 Central Park South. Tallest construction: The Steinway Tower at 111 West 57th Street. Blue&Orange Construction: Central Park Tower: The Nordstrom Tower at 217 West 57th Street.)

[argumate]

China dedicated everything it had to building massive amounts of physical capital, leaving relatively little of its economic output left over for its people’s consumption. As a result, it grew very very quickly.

But the Solow model says that this type of growth has a limit. Just as the model would predict, China started hitting diminishing returns. We started seeing “ghost cities” and massive overcapacity in all sorts of industrial sectors. China’s incremental capital-output ratio — the dollars of capital needed in order to generate an additional dollar of GDP — rose relentlessly from around 2007.

This is exactly the kind of diminishing returns the Solow model talks about.

[bm2ab]

Man's Impact on the Environment . 12 March 2025 . My Internship . Circa 1965 . Model Building

Weekends during the school year and after school when necessary. Paul Marvin Rudolph was the dean of the School of Architecture at Yale University in New Haven Connecticut with an office in New York City on West 58th Street. I was lucky enough to do a junior year internship at his office which is featured below. This was the office that we worked in. Some of the photos show the original conditions, while others are more up to date.

Credits: The Paul Rudolph Institute for Modern Architecture

Paul Rudolph Architectural Office In 1965 Rudolph rents the top floor of a six-story building at 26 West 58th Street.

Rudolph discovers that, by raising the roof over the front part of the building almost 4 feet, he can add a mezzanine floor which can be used for drafting space.

Because of the low cost of the rent, Rudolph determines he can afford to do the construction, even for a short-term basis. Rudolph opens up the roof in the middle of the plan and builds a two-story glass pavilion which encloses a desk-conference area on the south side and a conference area for himself above it with his own drafting table cantilevered out over the desk-conference area below.

The floating platforms are supported on steel brackets (1-1/2” x 1”) bolted to the brick party walls or to joists. “It was only slightly shaky,” according to Rudolph.

In 1969 Rudolph relocates his office to 4 West 57th Street

In 1971 Sheldon Solow of the Solow Building Corporation demolishes the building and hires Gordon Bunshaft of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill to design a 50 story skyscraper - known as the Solow Building - which is later built on the site in 1974.

[cleverhottubmiracle]

This year’s Fashion Week front rows have been dominated by black-and-white ensembles. During Paris Fashion Week, Chanel and Dior front-row guests wore the classic color pairing. New York Fashion Week was no different, as more stars graced the coveted front row in black and white. This recurring black-and-white trend is a refreshing nod to timeless elegance, making a statement across major fashion capitals. At New York Fashion Week, this classic pairing continued its dominance, with Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation offering a fresh take on the theme. Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation showcased a stunning array of designs, from minimalist gowns to intricately embroidered floral pieces, along with sophisticated knitwear and impeccably tailored suits. Under the creative direction of Wes Gordon, the collection reimagined Herrera’s signature feminine silhouettes with a bold, ’70s-inspired edge. His expert use of both spring and autumnal hues beautifully captured the fleeting transition between seasons. While the runway featured a dynamic mix of textures and styles, the front-row attendees embraced their own interpretations of monochrome elegance. Dove Cameron, Emmy Rossum, and Nicole Scherzinger each brought their distinctive fashion sensibilities to the event, proving that black-and-white styling remains endlessly versatile. Though statement heels could have added an extra layer of personality, their choice of monochrome footwear still made an impact. The refined details and subtle contrasts elevated their looks, offering a fresh take on classic elegance without relying on the standard black pump. Dove Cameron, Nicole Scherzinger, and Emmy Rossum arrive at the New York Fashion Week Ready-to-Wear Carolina Herrera show (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) 1. Dove Cameron Stuns in Black Spool-Heeled Pumps and Chic Monochrome Ensemble I adore Dove Cameron’s sense of style, which is often edgy yet feminine. She showcased her signature aesthetic at the Carolina Herrera fashion show, fusing the high-fashion edge of the black-and-white combo with the soft-girl vibe. Cameron wore shiny black patent leather pumps with a classic pointed toe. The spool heels, however, injected modern flair into the rather typical pump silhouette. I’m guessing they’re by Carolina Herrera, considering the NYC-based label has released pumps with spool heels. Besides, Dove accessorized her look with pieces from the designer, including a pair of Carolina Herrera oversized sunglasses with white temples and a black patent leather Continental pouch. Dove Cameron displays her tattooed feet in a pair of black patent pointed-toe pumps with spool heels (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Cameron wore an ensemble from Herrera’s Pre-Fall 2025 collection. Showcasing her cleavage and toned abs, she wore a white bralette with a low square neckline and a cropped silhouette. It’s made from strips of intricate broderie anglaise cotton that give it a lacy brocade texture, while the black bow accent on either side enhances its feminine and romantic appeal. I love how the simplicity of the white color contrasts with the intricate texture, adding visual depth to the bralette. She complemented it with a black midi skirt that matched her top’s bow appliques and floral brocade texture. I love how the voluminous silhouette enhanced the overall appearance! Unfortunately, we couldn’t see the entire design of her top as she draped a black cape over her shoulders outside the Solow Building. But I appreciate how it made her look more elegant and cozy. Dove Cameron embraces a soft-girl aesthetic in a white broderie anglaise cotton bralette with black bow accents, a voluminous black midi skirt, and a cape (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Dove’s footwear choice wasn’t just elegant—it was part of a growing trend. Spool heels, characterized by their distinctive hourglass shape, have made a notable resurgence in the fashion world. Celebrities are embracing this elegant heel style, seamlessly incorporating it into their ensembles. Here are some standout moments: Spool Heel Revival: Celebrities Embracing the Hourglass Heel Trend Lily Collins’ Monochrome Moment Event: “Emily in Paris” Season 4 Press Tour Outfit: Lily Collins donned a merlot-colored suit by Nina Ricci, exuding a sophisticated autumnal vibe. Footwear: She completed her look with matching merlot pumps featuring sharp, pointed toes and towering spool heels, adding a modern twist to her ensemble. More Details: Lily Collins’ Chic Press Tour Outfits Ariana Grande’s Vintage Glam Event: 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony Outfit: Ariana Grande captivated audiences in a pink sleeveless gown by Thom Browne, reminiscent of classic Hollywood glamour. Footwear: She paired her elegant dress with pale pink-and-white heels that featured brogue-inspired wingtip accents and delicate spool heels, blending vintage charm with contemporary style. More Details: Ariana Grande at the 2024 Paris Olympics Katy Perry’s Edgy Ensemble Event: 2025 Invictus Games Closing Ceremony Outfit: Katy Perry showcased her bold fashion sense with a futuristic stage look, including color-changing shorts and armbands. Footwear: She opted for white Vetements x New Rock biker boots, distinguished by their quilted padding, upturned pointed toes, and 4-inch spool heels, adding a rugged yet glamorous touch to her performance attire. More Details: Katy Perry Rocks Vetements Biker Boots Irina Shayk’s Sleek Black Sandals Event: Pre-Prep Party Outfit: Irina Shayk opted for a minimalist look, allowing her accessories to take center stage. Footwear: She wore black snakeskin-effect sandals featuring crisscross front straps, T-straps, and approximately 4-inch spool heels, adding a touch of sophistication to her ensemble. More Details: Irina Shayk’s Pre-Prep Party Look Margot Robbie’s Monochromatic Chic Event: “The Suicide Squad” Premiere Outfit: Margot Robbie embraced a sleek, all-white look with a Chanel jumpsuit that exuded modern elegance. Footwear: She complemented her outfit with By Far’s “Lotta” sandals, featuring white leather uppers, a thong toe-post, slingback strap, and 4-inch spool heels, perfectly aligning with her monochromatic theme. More Details: Margot Robbie at “The Suicide Squad” Premiere Greta Gerwig’s Burgundy Elegance Event: Cannes Film Festival Outfit: Greta Gerwig dazzled in a burgundy sequin gown by Saint Laurent, featuring a plunging neckline and center-front leg slit. Footwear: She paired her dress with matching Saint Laurent “Dune” slingback pumps, crafted from burgundy patent leather, featuring tortoiseshell buckles, elongated pointy toes, and spool heels, completing her sophisticated look. More Details: Greta Gerwig at Cannes Film Festival These instances highlight the versatility and timeless appeal of spool heels, proving their place in both classic and contemporary fashion. However, not all celebrities opted for this trend—some, like Nicole Scherzinger, turned to another footwear classic: cap-toe pumps. 2. Nicole Scherzinger Elevates Monochrome Style With Cap-Toe Pumps and Strapless Jumpsuit Bold yet glamorous, Nicole Scherzinger demonstrated her signature style as she arrived in the front row wearing black pumps. She wore the $760 Carolina Herrera “Classic” Spring 2024 leather pumps with whimsical pointed cap toes. They’re set on 3.1-inch heels, enough to add a few inches to Scherzinger’s 5’5” stature. I like the timelessness of the color combination, with the white cap toes adding a unique and bold touch to its design. The striking contrast draws attention to the shoes and adds a distinctive touch to the otherwise classic silhouette. Nicole Scherzinger opts for Carolina Herrera’s Classic black pumps with white toe caps, adding a whimsical element to the classic silhouette (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) The former Pussycat Dolls member put on a busty display in a black jumpsuit with a ruched bodice and a plunging strapless neckline. It also features voluminous bishop sleeves, which appear detachable and have been added for a dramatic touch. It was cinched at the waist with a wide, embellished black belt, accentuating her hourglass figure. However, it wasn’t particularly noticeable as she wore a long white coat, probably also from the Venezuelan fashion designer, to remain warm outside the venue. The lower portion of the ensemble consists of fitted pants cropped to her midcalf, which I appreciate because they don’t cover her shoes. Scherzinger smartly skipped a necklace in favor of large pearl teardrop earrings, which enhanced her ensemble’s elegance. Adding extra star power to the look, she covered her eyes behind oversized ombre sunglasses and carried her essentials in a black clutch by Carolina Herrera. Nicole Scherzinger puts on a busty display in a black plunging jumpsuit with dramatic bishop sleeves and a white coat (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Cap-toe pumps have long been a staple in fashion, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern flair. Many celebrities have embraced this trend, showcasing their unique takes on this timeless footwear. Here are some standout moments: Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Cap-Toe Pumps Jennifer Hudson’s Bold Red Ensemble Event: Memoir Promotion Outfit: Jennifer Hudson promoted her memoir in a long-sleeved black dress. Footwear: She paired the dress with red suede cap-toe pumps, adding a vibrant pop of color to her ensemble. More Details: Jennifer Hudson’s Stylish Cap-Toe Pumps Jessica Biel’s Elegant Premiere Look Nicole Kidman’s Chic Cannes Appearance Charlize Theron’s Textured Statement Eva Longoria’s Academic Achievement Style These instances highlight the versatility and enduring appeal of cap-toe pumps, as celebrities continue to incorporate them into both classic and contemporary fashion statements. 3. Emmy Rossum Goes Retro-Chic in Houndstooth Pumps and Mini Dress Going full-on retro, Emmy Rossum donned a head-to-toe black-and-white houndstooth-patterned ensemble. The pattern, often used to create a retro-chic vibe, gained popularity in the mid-20th century and continues to be worn today. Rossum’s Carolina Herrera houndstooth pumps are my favorite! The striking pattern combined with the pump’s sleek and sophisticated silhouette makes for a statement-making look guaranteed to draw attention. Her strappy houndstooth pumps feature pointed toes and two buckled straps: one wraps around the ankles and crosses at the front, while the other is slung around the back of the foot and fastened at the heel. Emmy Rossum goes retro-chic, wearing a pair of houndstooth-patterned pumps with double ankle straps (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) She paired her striking heels with the designer’s houndstooth mini-dress, featuring a strapless bodice and a thigh-skimming hem. I adore how eye-catching this looks, especially with the peplum waist and 3D rosette accent that gives the classic design a whimsical and feminine touch. Rossum’s love of the houndstooth pattern continued beyond her dress and shoes. She carried a houndstooth clutch and wore a coat of the same pattern over her shoulders to stay warm. Emmy wore black tights, bold red lipstick, and voluminous tight curls, taking care of her glam squad hairstylist Jacob Rozenberg and makeup artist Fulvia Farolfi to enhance the look’s retro glamour. Emmy Rossum completes a head-to-toe houndstooth look with a coat and a strapless mini-dress featuring a 3D rosette and a peplum detail (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Houndstooth, a classic pattern characterized by its broken check design, has been a fashion staple for decades. Celebrities continue to embrace this timeless print, incorporating it into their wardrobes in various stylish ways. Here are some notable instances: Timeless Elegance: Celebrities Who Love Houndstooth Anya Taylor-Joy’s Retro Houndstooth Ensemble Event: Press Tour Outfit: Anya Taylor-Joy captivated onlookers with a vintage-inspired houndstooth outfit. She donned a cropped jacket and mini-skirt combo featuring a 1950s-style houndstooth pattern, exuding a retro touch. Footwear: She paired the ensemble with black knee-high boots, adding a contemporary flair to the classic print. More Details: Anya Taylor-Joy’s best retro-inspired looks Hilary Duff’s Pink Houndstooth Coat Event: On the set of “Younger” Outfit: Hilary Duff channeled a chic look with a pastel pink houndstooth wool coat from Balenciaga. The statement piece featured a tailored fit, serving as the focal point of her ensemble. Styling: She kept the rest of her outfit solid-colored, allowing the bold houndstooth coat to take center stage. More Details: Hilary Duff’s standout outerwear choices Emily Ratajkowski’s Vintage-Inspired Houndstooth Coat Event: Street Style Look Outfit: Emily Ratajkowski embraced a ’70s vibe with a brown houndstooth-patterned coat by Prada. The vintage-inspired outerwear featured a classic collar and large buttons, blending warmth with style. More Details: Emily Ratajkowski’s best winter coats Blake Lively’s Print-on-Print Houndstooth Look Event: Paris Street Style Outfit: Blake Lively showcased her fashion-forward sense by mixing patterns. She paired an Isabel Marant striped sweater with Étoile houndstooth pants, creating a chic print-on-print ensemble. More Details: Blake Lively’s fearless approach to mixing prints Amanda Seyfried’s Houndstooth Dress Event: “Lovelace” Press Tour Outfit: While promoting the movie “Lovelace,” Amanda Seyfried was spotted in a white-and-pink houndstooth-print dress from Balmain. The dress featured a modern take on the classic pattern, highlighting her elegant style. More Details: Amanda Seyfried’s most stylish movie press tour looks These instances underscore the versatility and enduring appeal of houndstooth in contemporary fashion. As the monochrome trend continues to thrive, this pattern is a favorite among celebrities, offering a dynamic alternative to solid black-and-white ensembles. 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[norajworld]

This year’s Fashion Week front rows have been dominated by black-and-white ensembles. During Paris Fashion Week, Chanel and Dior front-row guests wore the classic color pairing. New York Fashion Week was no different, as more stars graced the coveted front row in black and white. This recurring black-and-white trend is a refreshing nod to timeless elegance, making a statement across major fashion capitals. At New York Fashion Week, this classic pairing continued its dominance, with Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation offering a fresh take on the theme. Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation showcased a stunning array of designs, from minimalist gowns to intricately embroidered floral pieces, along with sophisticated knitwear and impeccably tailored suits. Under the creative direction of Wes Gordon, the collection reimagined Herrera’s signature feminine silhouettes with a bold, ’70s-inspired edge. His expert use of both spring and autumnal hues beautifully captured the fleeting transition between seasons. While the runway featured a dynamic mix of textures and styles, the front-row attendees embraced their own interpretations of monochrome elegance. Dove Cameron, Emmy Rossum, and Nicole Scherzinger each brought their distinctive fashion sensibilities to the event, proving that black-and-white styling remains endlessly versatile. Though statement heels could have added an extra layer of personality, their choice of monochrome footwear still made an impact. The refined details and subtle contrasts elevated their looks, offering a fresh take on classic elegance without relying on the standard black pump. Dove Cameron, Nicole Scherzinger, and Emmy Rossum arrive at the New York Fashion Week Ready-to-Wear Carolina Herrera show (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) 1. Dove Cameron Stuns in Black Spool-Heeled Pumps and Chic Monochrome Ensemble I adore Dove Cameron’s sense of style, which is often edgy yet feminine. She showcased her signature aesthetic at the Carolina Herrera fashion show, fusing the high-fashion edge of the black-and-white combo with the soft-girl vibe. Cameron wore shiny black patent leather pumps with a classic pointed toe. The spool heels, however, injected modern flair into the rather typical pump silhouette. I’m guessing they’re by Carolina Herrera, considering the NYC-based label has released pumps with spool heels. Besides, Dove accessorized her look with pieces from the designer, including a pair of Carolina Herrera oversized sunglasses with white temples and a black patent leather Continental pouch. Dove Cameron displays her tattooed feet in a pair of black patent pointed-toe pumps with spool heels (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Cameron wore an ensemble from Herrera’s Pre-Fall 2025 collection. Showcasing her cleavage and toned abs, she wore a white bralette with a low square neckline and a cropped silhouette. It’s made from strips of intricate broderie anglaise cotton that give it a lacy brocade texture, while the black bow accent on either side enhances its feminine and romantic appeal. I love how the simplicity of the white color contrasts with the intricate texture, adding visual depth to the bralette. She complemented it with a black midi skirt that matched her top’s bow appliques and floral brocade texture. I love how the voluminous silhouette enhanced the overall appearance! Unfortunately, we couldn’t see the entire design of her top as she draped a black cape over her shoulders outside the Solow Building. But I appreciate how it made her look more elegant and cozy. Dove Cameron embraces a soft-girl aesthetic in a white broderie anglaise cotton bralette with black bow accents, a voluminous black midi skirt, and a cape (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Dove’s footwear choice wasn’t just elegant—it was part of a growing trend. Spool heels, characterized by their distinctive hourglass shape, have made a notable resurgence in the fashion world. Celebrities are embracing this elegant heel style, seamlessly incorporating it into their ensembles. Here are some standout moments: Spool Heel Revival: Celebrities Embracing the Hourglass Heel Trend Lily Collins’ Monochrome Moment Event: “Emily in Paris” Season 4 Press Tour Outfit: Lily Collins donned a merlot-colored suit by Nina Ricci, exuding a sophisticated autumnal vibe. Footwear: She completed her look with matching merlot pumps featuring sharp, pointed toes and towering spool heels, adding a modern twist to her ensemble. More Details: Lily Collins’ Chic Press Tour Outfits Ariana Grande’s Vintage Glam Event: 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony Outfit: Ariana Grande captivated audiences in a pink sleeveless gown by Thom Browne, reminiscent of classic Hollywood glamour. Footwear: She paired her elegant dress with pale pink-and-white heels that featured brogue-inspired wingtip accents and delicate spool heels, blending vintage charm with contemporary style. More Details: Ariana Grande at the 2024 Paris Olympics Katy Perry’s Edgy Ensemble Event: 2025 Invictus Games Closing Ceremony Outfit: Katy Perry showcased her bold fashion sense with a futuristic stage look, including color-changing shorts and armbands. Footwear: She opted for white Vetements x New Rock biker boots, distinguished by their quilted padding, upturned pointed toes, and 4-inch spool heels, adding a rugged yet glamorous touch to her performance attire. More Details: Katy Perry Rocks Vetements Biker Boots Irina Shayk’s Sleek Black Sandals Event: Pre-Prep Party Outfit: Irina Shayk opted for a minimalist look, allowing her accessories to take center stage. Footwear: She wore black snakeskin-effect sandals featuring crisscross front straps, T-straps, and approximately 4-inch spool heels, adding a touch of sophistication to her ensemble. More Details: Irina Shayk’s Pre-Prep Party Look Margot Robbie’s Monochromatic Chic Event: “The Suicide Squad” Premiere Outfit: Margot Robbie embraced a sleek, all-white look with a Chanel jumpsuit that exuded modern elegance. Footwear: She complemented her outfit with By Far’s “Lotta” sandals, featuring white leather uppers, a thong toe-post, slingback strap, and 4-inch spool heels, perfectly aligning with her monochromatic theme. More Details: Margot Robbie at “The Suicide Squad” Premiere Greta Gerwig’s Burgundy Elegance Event: Cannes Film Festival Outfit: Greta Gerwig dazzled in a burgundy sequin gown by Saint Laurent, featuring a plunging neckline and center-front leg slit. Footwear: She paired her dress with matching Saint Laurent “Dune” slingback pumps, crafted from burgundy patent leather, featuring tortoiseshell buckles, elongated pointy toes, and spool heels, completing her sophisticated look. More Details: Greta Gerwig at Cannes Film Festival These instances highlight the versatility and timeless appeal of spool heels, proving their place in both classic and contemporary fashion. However, not all celebrities opted for this trend—some, like Nicole Scherzinger, turned to another footwear classic: cap-toe pumps. 2. Nicole Scherzinger Elevates Monochrome Style With Cap-Toe Pumps and Strapless Jumpsuit Bold yet glamorous, Nicole Scherzinger demonstrated her signature style as she arrived in the front row wearing black pumps. She wore the $760 Carolina Herrera “Classic” Spring 2024 leather pumps with whimsical pointed cap toes. They’re set on 3.1-inch heels, enough to add a few inches to Scherzinger’s 5’5” stature. I like the timelessness of the color combination, with the white cap toes adding a unique and bold touch to its design. The striking contrast draws attention to the shoes and adds a distinctive touch to the otherwise classic silhouette. Nicole Scherzinger opts for Carolina Herrera’s Classic black pumps with white toe caps, adding a whimsical element to the classic silhouette (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) The former Pussycat Dolls member put on a busty display in a black jumpsuit with a ruched bodice and a plunging strapless neckline. It also features voluminous bishop sleeves, which appear detachable and have been added for a dramatic touch. It was cinched at the waist with a wide, embellished black belt, accentuating her hourglass figure. However, it wasn’t particularly noticeable as she wore a long white coat, probably also from the Venezuelan fashion designer, to remain warm outside the venue. The lower portion of the ensemble consists of fitted pants cropped to her midcalf, which I appreciate because they don’t cover her shoes. Scherzinger smartly skipped a necklace in favor of large pearl teardrop earrings, which enhanced her ensemble’s elegance. Adding extra star power to the look, she covered her eyes behind oversized ombre sunglasses and carried her essentials in a black clutch by Carolina Herrera. Nicole Scherzinger puts on a busty display in a black plunging jumpsuit with dramatic bishop sleeves and a white coat (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Cap-toe pumps have long been a staple in fashion, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern flair. Many celebrities have embraced this trend, showcasing their unique takes on this timeless footwear. Here are some standout moments: Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Cap-Toe Pumps Jennifer Hudson’s Bold Red Ensemble Event: Memoir Promotion Outfit: Jennifer Hudson promoted her memoir in a long-sleeved black dress. Footwear: She paired the dress with red suede cap-toe pumps, adding a vibrant pop of color to her ensemble. More Details: Jennifer Hudson’s Stylish Cap-Toe Pumps Jessica Biel’s Elegant Premiere Look Nicole Kidman’s Chic Cannes Appearance Charlize Theron’s Textured Statement Eva Longoria’s Academic Achievement Style These instances highlight the versatility and enduring appeal of cap-toe pumps, as celebrities continue to incorporate them into both classic and contemporary fashion statements. 3. Emmy Rossum Goes Retro-Chic in Houndstooth Pumps and Mini Dress Going full-on retro, Emmy Rossum donned a head-to-toe black-and-white houndstooth-patterned ensemble. The pattern, often used to create a retro-chic vibe, gained popularity in the mid-20th century and continues to be worn today. Rossum’s Carolina Herrera houndstooth pumps are my favorite! The striking pattern combined with the pump’s sleek and sophisticated silhouette makes for a statement-making look guaranteed to draw attention. Her strappy houndstooth pumps feature pointed toes and two buckled straps: one wraps around the ankles and crosses at the front, while the other is slung around the back of the foot and fastened at the heel. Emmy Rossum goes retro-chic, wearing a pair of houndstooth-patterned pumps with double ankle straps (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) She paired her striking heels with the designer’s houndstooth mini-dress, featuring a strapless bodice and a thigh-skimming hem. I adore how eye-catching this looks, especially with the peplum waist and 3D rosette accent that gives the classic design a whimsical and feminine touch. Rossum’s love of the houndstooth pattern continued beyond her dress and shoes. She carried a houndstooth clutch and wore a coat of the same pattern over her shoulders to stay warm. Emmy wore black tights, bold red lipstick, and voluminous tight curls, taking care of her glam squad hairstylist Jacob Rozenberg and makeup artist Fulvia Farolfi to enhance the look’s retro glamour. Emmy Rossum completes a head-to-toe houndstooth look with a coat and a strapless mini-dress featuring a 3D rosette and a peplum detail (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Houndstooth, a classic pattern characterized by its broken check design, has been a fashion staple for decades. Celebrities continue to embrace this timeless print, incorporating it into their wardrobes in various stylish ways. Here are some notable instances: Timeless Elegance: Celebrities Who Love Houndstooth Anya Taylor-Joy’s Retro Houndstooth Ensemble Event: Press Tour Outfit: Anya Taylor-Joy captivated onlookers with a vintage-inspired houndstooth outfit. She donned a cropped jacket and mini-skirt combo featuring a 1950s-style houndstooth pattern, exuding a retro touch. Footwear: She paired the ensemble with black knee-high boots, adding a contemporary flair to the classic print. More Details: Anya Taylor-Joy’s best retro-inspired looks Hilary Duff’s Pink Houndstooth Coat Event: On the set of “Younger” Outfit: Hilary Duff channeled a chic look with a pastel pink houndstooth wool coat from Balenciaga. The statement piece featured a tailored fit, serving as the focal point of her ensemble. Styling: She kept the rest of her outfit solid-colored, allowing the bold houndstooth coat to take center stage. More Details: Hilary Duff’s standout outerwear choices Emily Ratajkowski’s Vintage-Inspired Houndstooth Coat Event: Street Style Look Outfit: Emily Ratajkowski embraced a ’70s vibe with a brown houndstooth-patterned coat by Prada. The vintage-inspired outerwear featured a classic collar and large buttons, blending warmth with style. More Details: Emily Ratajkowski’s best winter coats Blake Lively’s Print-on-Print Houndstooth Look Event: Paris Street Style Outfit: Blake Lively showcased her fashion-forward sense by mixing patterns. She paired an Isabel Marant striped sweater with Étoile houndstooth pants, creating a chic print-on-print ensemble. More Details: Blake Lively’s fearless approach to mixing prints Amanda Seyfried’s Houndstooth Dress Event: “Lovelace” Press Tour Outfit: While promoting the movie “Lovelace,” Amanda Seyfried was spotted in a white-and-pink houndstooth-print dress from Balmain. The dress featured a modern take on the classic pattern, highlighting her elegant style. More Details: Amanda Seyfried’s most stylish movie press tour looks These instances underscore the versatility and enduring appeal of houndstooth in contemporary fashion. As the monochrome trend continues to thrive, this pattern is a favorite among celebrities, offering a dynamic alternative to solid black-and-white ensembles. Source link

[chilimili212]

This year’s Fashion Week front rows have been dominated by black-and-white ensembles. During Paris Fashion Week, Chanel and Dior front-row guests wore the classic color pairing. New York Fashion Week was no different, as more stars graced the coveted front row in black and white. This recurring black-and-white trend is a refreshing nod to timeless elegance, making a statement across major fashion capitals. At New York Fashion Week, this classic pairing continued its dominance, with Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation offering a fresh take on the theme. Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2025 presentation showcased a stunning array of designs, from minimalist gowns to intricately embroidered floral pieces, along with sophisticated knitwear and impeccably tailored suits. Under the creative direction of Wes Gordon, the collection reimagined Herrera’s signature feminine silhouettes with a bold, ’70s-inspired edge. His expert use of both spring and autumnal hues beautifully captured the fleeting transition between seasons. While the runway featured a dynamic mix of textures and styles, the front-row attendees embraced their own interpretations of monochrome elegance. Dove Cameron, Emmy Rossum, and Nicole Scherzinger each brought their distinctive fashion sensibilities to the event, proving that black-and-white styling remains endlessly versatile. Though statement heels could have added an extra layer of personality, their choice of monochrome footwear still made an impact. The refined details and subtle contrasts elevated their looks, offering a fresh take on classic elegance without relying on the standard black pump. Dove Cameron, Nicole Scherzinger, and Emmy Rossum arrive at the New York Fashion Week Ready-to-Wear Carolina Herrera show (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) 1. Dove Cameron Stuns in Black Spool-Heeled Pumps and Chic Monochrome Ensemble I adore Dove Cameron’s sense of style, which is often edgy yet feminine. She showcased her signature aesthetic at the Carolina Herrera fashion show, fusing the high-fashion edge of the black-and-white combo with the soft-girl vibe. Cameron wore shiny black patent leather pumps with a classic pointed toe. The spool heels, however, injected modern flair into the rather typical pump silhouette. I’m guessing they’re by Carolina Herrera, considering the NYC-based label has released pumps with spool heels. Besides, Dove accessorized her look with pieces from the designer, including a pair of Carolina Herrera oversized sunglasses with white temples and a black patent leather Continental pouch. Dove Cameron displays her tattooed feet in a pair of black patent pointed-toe pumps with spool heels (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Cameron wore an ensemble from Herrera’s Pre-Fall 2025 collection. Showcasing her cleavage and toned abs, she wore a white bralette with a low square neckline and a cropped silhouette. It’s made from strips of intricate broderie anglaise cotton that give it a lacy brocade texture, while the black bow accent on either side enhances its feminine and romantic appeal. I love how the simplicity of the white color contrasts with the intricate texture, adding visual depth to the bralette. She complemented it with a black midi skirt that matched her top’s bow appliques and floral brocade texture. I love how the voluminous silhouette enhanced the overall appearance! Unfortunately, we couldn’t see the entire design of her top as she draped a black cape over her shoulders outside the Solow Building. But I appreciate how it made her look more elegant and cozy. Dove Cameron embraces a soft-girl aesthetic in a white broderie anglaise cotton bralette with black bow accents, a voluminous black midi skirt, and a cape (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Dove’s footwear choice wasn’t just elegant—it was part of a growing trend. Spool heels, characterized by their distinctive hourglass shape, have made a notable resurgence in the fashion world. Celebrities are embracing this elegant heel style, seamlessly incorporating it into their ensembles. Here are some standout moments: Spool Heel Revival: Celebrities Embracing the Hourglass Heel Trend Lily Collins’ Monochrome Moment Event: “Emily in Paris” Season 4 Press Tour Outfit: Lily Collins donned a merlot-colored suit by Nina Ricci, exuding a sophisticated autumnal vibe. Footwear: She completed her look with matching merlot pumps featuring sharp, pointed toes and towering spool heels, adding a modern twist to her ensemble. More Details: Lily Collins’ Chic Press Tour Outfits Ariana Grande’s Vintage Glam Event: 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony Outfit: Ariana Grande captivated audiences in a pink sleeveless gown by Thom Browne, reminiscent of classic Hollywood glamour. Footwear: She paired her elegant dress with pale pink-and-white heels that featured brogue-inspired wingtip accents and delicate spool heels, blending vintage charm with contemporary style. More Details: Ariana Grande at the 2024 Paris Olympics Katy Perry’s Edgy Ensemble Event: 2025 Invictus Games Closing Ceremony Outfit: Katy Perry showcased her bold fashion sense with a futuristic stage look, including color-changing shorts and armbands. Footwear: She opted for white Vetements x New Rock biker boots, distinguished by their quilted padding, upturned pointed toes, and 4-inch spool heels, adding a rugged yet glamorous touch to her performance attire. More Details: Katy Perry Rocks Vetements Biker Boots Irina Shayk’s Sleek Black Sandals Event: Pre-Prep Party Outfit: Irina Shayk opted for a minimalist look, allowing her accessories to take center stage. Footwear: She wore black snakeskin-effect sandals featuring crisscross front straps, T-straps, and approximately 4-inch spool heels, adding a touch of sophistication to her ensemble. More Details: Irina Shayk’s Pre-Prep Party Look Margot Robbie’s Monochromatic Chic Event: “The Suicide Squad” Premiere Outfit: Margot Robbie embraced a sleek, all-white look with a Chanel jumpsuit that exuded modern elegance. Footwear: She complemented her outfit with By Far’s “Lotta” sandals, featuring white leather uppers, a thong toe-post, slingback strap, and 4-inch spool heels, perfectly aligning with her monochromatic theme. More Details: Margot Robbie at “The Suicide Squad” Premiere Greta Gerwig’s Burgundy Elegance Event: Cannes Film Festival Outfit: Greta Gerwig dazzled in a burgundy sequin gown by Saint Laurent, featuring a plunging neckline and center-front leg slit. Footwear: She paired her dress with matching Saint Laurent “Dune” slingback pumps, crafted from burgundy patent leather, featuring tortoiseshell buckles, elongated pointy toes, and spool heels, completing her sophisticated look. More Details: Greta Gerwig at Cannes Film Festival These instances highlight the versatility and timeless appeal of spool heels, proving their place in both classic and contemporary fashion. However, not all celebrities opted for this trend—some, like Nicole Scherzinger, turned to another footwear classic: cap-toe pumps. 2. Nicole Scherzinger Elevates Monochrome Style With Cap-Toe Pumps and Strapless Jumpsuit Bold yet glamorous, Nicole Scherzinger demonstrated her signature style as she arrived in the front row wearing black pumps. She wore the $760 Carolina Herrera “Classic” Spring 2024 leather pumps with whimsical pointed cap toes. They’re set on 3.1-inch heels, enough to add a few inches to Scherzinger’s 5’5” stature. I like the timelessness of the color combination, with the white cap toes adding a unique and bold touch to its design. The striking contrast draws attention to the shoes and adds a distinctive touch to the otherwise classic silhouette. Nicole Scherzinger opts for Carolina Herrera’s Classic black pumps with white toe caps, adding a whimsical element to the classic silhouette (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) The former Pussycat Dolls member put on a busty display in a black jumpsuit with a ruched bodice and a plunging strapless neckline. It also features voluminous bishop sleeves, which appear detachable and have been added for a dramatic touch. It was cinched at the waist with a wide, embellished black belt, accentuating her hourglass figure. However, it wasn’t particularly noticeable as she wore a long white coat, probably also from the Venezuelan fashion designer, to remain warm outside the venue. The lower portion of the ensemble consists of fitted pants cropped to her midcalf, which I appreciate because they don’t cover her shoes. Scherzinger smartly skipped a necklace in favor of large pearl teardrop earrings, which enhanced her ensemble’s elegance. Adding extra star power to the look, she covered her eyes behind oversized ombre sunglasses and carried her essentials in a black clutch by Carolina Herrera. Nicole Scherzinger puts on a busty display in a black plunging jumpsuit with dramatic bishop sleeves and a white coat (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Cap-toe pumps have long been a staple in fashion, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern flair. Many celebrities have embraced this trend, showcasing their unique takes on this timeless footwear. Here are some standout moments: Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Cap-Toe Pumps Jennifer Hudson’s Bold Red Ensemble Event: Memoir Promotion Outfit: Jennifer Hudson promoted her memoir in a long-sleeved black dress. Footwear: She paired the dress with red suede cap-toe pumps, adding a vibrant pop of color to her ensemble. More Details: Jennifer Hudson’s Stylish Cap-Toe Pumps Jessica Biel’s Elegant Premiere Look Nicole Kidman’s Chic Cannes Appearance Charlize Theron’s Textured Statement Eva Longoria’s Academic Achievement Style These instances highlight the versatility and enduring appeal of cap-toe pumps, as celebrities continue to incorporate them into both classic and contemporary fashion statements. 3. Emmy Rossum Goes Retro-Chic in Houndstooth Pumps and Mini Dress Going full-on retro, Emmy Rossum donned a head-to-toe black-and-white houndstooth-patterned ensemble. The pattern, often used to create a retro-chic vibe, gained popularity in the mid-20th century and continues to be worn today. Rossum’s Carolina Herrera houndstooth pumps are my favorite! The striking pattern combined with the pump’s sleek and sophisticated silhouette makes for a statement-making look guaranteed to draw attention. Her strappy houndstooth pumps feature pointed toes and two buckled straps: one wraps around the ankles and crosses at the front, while the other is slung around the back of the foot and fastened at the heel. Emmy Rossum goes retro-chic, wearing a pair of houndstooth-patterned pumps with double ankle straps (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) She paired her striking heels with the designer’s houndstooth mini-dress, featuring a strapless bodice and a thigh-skimming hem. I adore how eye-catching this looks, especially with the peplum waist and 3D rosette accent that gives the classic design a whimsical and feminine touch. Rossum’s love of the houndstooth pattern continued beyond her dress and shoes. She carried a houndstooth clutch and wore a coat of the same pattern over her shoulders to stay warm. Emmy wore black tights, bold red lipstick, and voluminous tight curls, taking care of her glam squad hairstylist Jacob Rozenberg and makeup artist Fulvia Farolfi to enhance the look’s retro glamour. Emmy Rossum completes a head-to-toe houndstooth look with a coat and a strapless mini-dress featuring a 3D rosette and a peplum detail (Credit: Roger Wong / INSTARimages) Houndstooth, a classic pattern characterized by its broken check design, has been a fashion staple for decades. Celebrities continue to embrace this timeless print, incorporating it into their wardrobes in various stylish ways. Here are some notable instances: Timeless Elegance: Celebrities Who Love Houndstooth Anya Taylor-Joy’s Retro Houndstooth Ensemble Event: Press Tour Outfit: Anya Taylor-Joy captivated onlookers with a vintage-inspired houndstooth outfit. She donned a cropped jacket and mini-skirt combo featuring a 1950s-style houndstooth pattern, exuding a retro touch. Footwear: She paired the ensemble with black knee-high boots, adding a contemporary flair to the classic print. More Details: Anya Taylor-Joy’s best retro-inspired looks Hilary Duff’s Pink Houndstooth Coat Event: On the set of “Younger” Outfit: Hilary Duff channeled a chic look with a pastel pink houndstooth wool coat from Balenciaga. The statement piece featured a tailored fit, serving as the focal point of her ensemble. Styling: She kept the rest of her outfit solid-colored, allowing the bold houndstooth coat to take center stage. More Details: Hilary Duff’s standout outerwear choices Emily Ratajkowski’s Vintage-Inspired Houndstooth Coat Event: Street Style Look Outfit: Emily Ratajkowski embraced a ’70s vibe with a brown houndstooth-patterned coat by Prada. The vintage-inspired outerwear featured a classic collar and large buttons, blending warmth with style. More Details: Emily Ratajkowski’s best winter coats Blake Lively’s Print-on-Print Houndstooth Look Event: Paris Street Style Outfit: Blake Lively showcased her fashion-forward sense by mixing patterns. She paired an Isabel Marant striped sweater with Étoile houndstooth pants, creating a chic print-on-print ensemble. More Details: Blake Lively’s fearless approach to mixing prints Amanda Seyfried’s Houndstooth Dress Event: “Lovelace” Press Tour Outfit: While promoting the movie “Lovelace,” Amanda Seyfried was spotted in a white-and-pink houndstooth-print dress from Balmain. The dress featured a modern take on the classic pattern, highlighting her elegant style. More Details: Amanda Seyfried’s most stylish movie press tour looks These instances underscore the versatility and enduring appeal of houndstooth in contemporary fashion. As the monochrome trend continues to thrive, this pattern is a favorite among celebrities, offering a dynamic alternative to solid black-and-white ensembles. Source link

[weatherchannel2]

Solow Building 1

Apollo Global Management and Christ Redeemer Church

[fixfoto]

Luxury hotel and condominium apartment building, Midtown Manhattan, New York. located on the western side of Grand Army Plaza, after which it is named, just west of Fifth Avenue, and between 58th Street and Central Park South (a.k.a. 59th Street), at the southeastern corner of Central Park. Its primary address is 768 Fifth Avenue, though the residential entrance is One Central Park South.

Opened October 1, 1907.

Archetictural type : French Renaissance.

[jcmarchi]

MIT economists Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson share Nobel Prize in economics

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/mit-economists-daron-acemoglu-and-simon-johnson-share-nobel-prize-in-economics/

MIT economists Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson share Nobel Prize in economics

MIT economists Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson PhD ’89, whose work has illuminated the relationship between political systems and economic growth, have been named winners of the 2024 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel. Political scientist James Robinson, with whom they have worked closely, also shares the award.

“Societies with a poor rule of law and institutions that exploit the population do not generate growth or change for the better,” the Nobel academy stated in its citation. “The laureates’ research helps us understand why.”

“I am delighted. It is a real shock and amazing news,” Acemoglu told the committee by phone at the Nobel announcement.

His long-term research collaboration with Johnson has empirically supported the idea that government institutions that provide individual rights, especially democracies, have spurred greater economic activity over the last 500 years. In a related line of research, Acemoglu has helped build models to account for political changes in many countries.

Acemoglu is an Institute Professor at MIT. He has also made notable contributions to labor economics by examining the relationship between skills and wages, and the effects of automation on employment and growth. Additionally, he has published influential papers on the characteristics of industrial networks and their large-scale implications for economies.

A native of Turkey, Acemoglu received his BA in 1989 from the University of York, in England. He earned his master’s degree in 1990 and his PhD in 1992, both from the London School of Economics. He joined the MIT faculty in 1993 and has remained at the Institute ever since. Acemoglu has authored or co-authored over 120 peer-reviewed papers and published four books. He has also advised over 60 PhD students at MIT.

Johnson is the Ronald A. Kurtz Professor of Entrepreneurship at the MIT Sloan School of Management. He has also written extensively about a broad range of additional topics, including development issues, the finance sector and regulation, fiscal policy, and the ways technology can either enhance or restrict broad prosperity.

A native of England, Johnson received his BA in economics and politics from Oxford University, an MA in economics from the University of Manchester, and his PhD in economics from MIT.  From 2007 to 2008, Johnson was chief economist of the International Monetary Fund.

Acemoglu and Johnson are co-authors of the 2023 book “Power and Progress: Our 1,000-Year Struggle over Technology and Prosperity,” in which they examine AI in light of other historical battles for the economic benefits of technological innovation.

Acemoglu’s books include “Why Nations Fail” (2012), with political scientist and co-laureate James Robinson, which synthesized much of his research about political institutions and growth. His book “The Narrow Corridor” (2019), also with Robinson, examined the historical development of rights and liberties in nation-states.

Johnson is also co-author of “13 Bankers” (2010), with James Kwak, an examination of U.S. regulation of the finance sector, and “Jump-Starting America” (2021), co-authored with MIT economist Jonathan Gruber, a call for more investment in scientific research and innovation in the U.S.

Previously, eight people have won the award while serving on the MIT faculty: Paul Samuelson (1970), Franco Modigliani (1985), Robert Solow (1987), Peter Diamond (2010), Bengt Holmström (2016), Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo (2019), and Josh Angrist (2021). Through 2022, 13 MIT alumni have won the Nobel Prize in economics; eight former faculty have also won the award.

This article will be updated later this morning.

[truthblockchain]

A Blockchain Valley In Buenos Aires

Argentina’s grassroots crypto community is working to establish a “Blockchain Valley” in the nation’s capital.

The movement, called “Crecimiento,” which means growth in Spanish, has amassed a so far small following of 500, but the group includes the most prominent names in Argentina’s crypto ecosystem: Diego Guitérrez, Co-founder of Bitcoin Layer 2 Rootstock, Elian Alvarez, General Partner of Ripio Ventures, and Marcelo Cavazzoli, CEO and Co-founder of one of Latin America’s top crypto buying apps, Lemon Cash, among many others.

Most importantly, they have backing from advisors to the nation’s new libertarian president, Javier Milei, according to Crecimiento’s core team.

“What’s happening in Argentina is a unique opportunity,” says Santi Cristóbal, Co-founder of Solow, an Argentinean crypto education platform and Crecimiento member.

https://thedefiant.io/news/people/argentina-s-crypto-founders-are-banding-together-to-build-a-blockchain-valley-in-buenos-aires

[midtownbaby]

Among this announcement of a fiberoptic light art installation in the giant pit on 1st avenue south of the UN is an interesting new brand identity:

Scheduled to open this winter for a yearlong residence, English-Australian artist Bruce Munro is bringing his “Field of Light” public art installation to Manhattan’s East Side. The immersive piece will transform more than 6 acres, from 38th Street to 41st Street on First Avenue, at the mixed-use Freedom Plaza space near the United Nations Headquarters.

What is the mixed-use Freedom Plaza space? It is of course the giant pit where a Con Edison plant once stood, which Con Ed sold to Sheldon Solow in 2000. The plant was demolished in 2008 and the rezoned six-acre site has sat vacant ever since. This light installation is part of the Soloviev Group’s (now run by Solow’s son Stefan Soloviev among other duties parenting his 20+ children and being the 26th largest landowner in the US) bid to site a casino and a lot of other buildings there.

Sheldon Solow stands atop his empty pit, 2007

[xtruss]

‘Bastion Of The Super-Rich’: Inside A New York Billionaire’s Private Museum

A collection of art, featuring pieces by Picasso, Lichtenstein and Cézanne, has been kept secret for years but for select members of the public, the door is slowly being opened

— Francesca Carington in New York | Tuesday 11 July 2023

Paul Cézanne: L’Oncle Dominique coiffé d’un turban (ca 1866); Still Life: Lilacs (ca 1886); Vue prise de l’atelier des Lauves (1902-1906); Route tournante (1890-95); Route en sous-bois (1890). Jean Dubuffet: Les Deux Brigands (1944) © 2023 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / ADAGP, Paris. Wang Ziwei: Hopeless Miss Revolution (2003) © Wang Ziwei. Roy Lichtenstein: Girl in a Mirror (1964) © Estate of Roy Lichtenstein. Henri Matisse: Le Jeune Marin I (1906) © 2023 Succession H Matisse / ARS, New York. Photograph: Bonnie H Morrison

It was Fleet Week in New York City, and something unusual was taking place on Billionaires’ Row. At 9 West 57th Street, an elegant black sloping skyscraper towering over the Plaza hotel and the half-dozen sailors congregated outside, 20 people were ushered into a small, glass-fronted gallery on the ground floor. A ferocious crimson Basquiat greeted them, along with a monochrome Kline and a serene Henry Moore – works collected by the building’s late owner, the real estate mogul Sheldon Solow.

The exhibition’s curator, Joseph Henry, silenced the excitable group. “You are the absolute first members of the public to come on a public tour,” he said, standing beneath an Alexander Calder mobile.

Under the watchful gaze of three sentinel security guards, Henry led the group on a swift, authoritative tour of the works he had brought together: a quartet of Cézannes, smudged in delicate blue and green; an angular mask carved by the Dan people of Ivory Coast, hanging next to a complementarily geometric Picasso; two Giacometti portraits with cockroach-coloured faces; three Miró dream paintings; a somewhat dingy Van Gogh. The tour ended after 35 minutes precisely, and a distinguished-looking gentleman with a Strand Bookstore bag asked: “So why were you closed for so long?”

“Closed for so long” implies the gallery was once open. It wasn’t. For years, the art could be glimpsed only from outside, beyond the glare of the windows. The collection, amassed by Solow, who died in 2020 aged 92 and worth $4.4bn, is conservatively valued at $500m. And while the majority of works were privately owned by Solow – and now by his son, Stefan Soloviev (who uses the pre-Ellis Island version of the family name) – a dozen or so of them are held by a tax-exempt non-profit called the Soloviev Foundation.

Set up by Solow in 1991 as the Solow Art and Architecture Foundation (and since renamed by his son), the non-profit describes its charitable activities in its tax filings: “The foundation maintains and displays artwork for exhibition to the public at the 9 West 57th Street, New York building.” While the gift of artworks like Matisse’s Acrobats (which is worth $30m) and Van Gogh’s Coal Barges ($50m) to the foundation entitled Solow to certain tax write-offs, they were not readily accessible to the public.

The Solow building in Manhattan. Photograph: lm_photography/Alamo

This completely legal set-up caught the eye of Ethan Arnheim, a Washington-based international development consultant, who created a parody website drawing attention to the foundation’s tax status and inaccessibility in 2017. He was outraged, but also, he said, hoped to “alert people to the fact that … you can do this questionable practice under current code”. A few of the artworks were technically on “public” display in the office building’s lobby (hardly an art-world destination) and some were lent to museums, such as the Botticelli sold in 2021 for $92m (which spent many years at the Met) or a Miró triptych, which went to the Tate Modern in 2011. Although, as Arnheim pointed out, lending to museums is a common practice among collectors, since it increases the value of the works.

There are plenty of examples of art foundations that work well as private museums, such as Glenstone in Washington DC, the Broad in LA and the Rubell museums in Miami and DC. And there are plenty of generous patrons of the arts, like the Lauders or the Rockefellers, in New York City, said Robert Storr, former senior curator of painting and sculpture at MoMA and one-time holder of a professorship at NYU endowed by Sheldon Solow. (The foundation has made a number of large donations over the years, including gifts to NYU, $3m to the University of Rhode Island and, recently, $400,000 to another family-run non-profit, the Soloviev American Russian Cultural Foundation.)

But according to Storr, “the idea of a private museum is kind of an oxymoron, because a museum is a public space.” A museum does not exist in isolation, but rather in dialogue with its visitors, with its own collection and with the society it serves. Most of all, Storr emphasised, a museum is accessible: “A museum is its collection. If you can’t get to that collection, there is no museum.”

Private museums have come under scrutiny in the past, most notably in 2015, when the Republican senator Orrin Hatch led an inquiry into 11 tax-exempt private museums (the Solow Foundation was not one of them). Hatch concluded in a letter to the IRS: “Despite the good work that is being done by many private museums, I remain concerned that this area of our tax code is ripe for exploitation.” A Republican tax bill proposed a rule compelling private museums to be open a minimum of 1,000 hours a year, but it was not enacted.

The curdling of art into an asset class began some time ago, but such behaviour by the wealthy only crystallises the social stratification of the art world: “A lot of art is seen as esoteric and highbrow and inaccessible, and this behaviour only serves to reinforce that view,” said Arnheim. “Less people are going to want to go to museums when they can’t even get into museums and it’s perceived as just the bastion of the super-rich.”

Could some kind of democratisation be under way at 9 West 57th Street with the changing of the guard? Michael Hershman, CEO of the Soloviev Group, wrote in an email: “The reason for opening the collection to the public is social responsibility. It is a wonderful collection, and we want to share it with the public.” The opening was not, he added, “in any way driven by past criticism”, and the decision was taken by Stefan Soloviev.

Soloviev is no typical billionaire. The tattooed 47-year-old with a boyish undercut has 22 children. His fractious relationship with his father led him to move out west, where he built an agricultural empire that now places him among the top 30 largest landowners in the US.

Soloviev was not present at the opening, though Hershman was, smiling beatifically as he spoke to curious visitors. He was animated, but vague, as he spoke of the gallery’s future. “We’re in the process of sticking our toe in the water, if you like. Before we decide what to do next.” The gallery is undertaking something of a soft opening to the public, beginning with four tours a month, and the website gestures towards nebulous plans for an “expansion” in due course. (The Soloviev Group is one of several developers bidding for one of New York City’s three soon-to-be-granted casino licences. Its proposal, called “Freedom Plaza”, would develop a 6.7-acre plot of land by the United Nations, and includes a hotel, four acres of green space and a museum.)

Alexej von Jawlensky: Still-Life with Flowers and Oranges (c 1909) © 2023 ARS, New York. Cy Twombly: Untitled (1961) © Cy Twombly Foundation. Joan Miró: Composition (1926) © Successió Miró / ARS, New York / ADAGP, Paris 2023; Peinture (1927) © Successió Miró / ARS, New York / ADAGP, Paris 2023; Paysage animé (1935) © Successió Miró / ARS, New York / ADAGP, Paris 2023. Jean Dubuffet: Henri Calet Costume Rouge 1947 © 2023 ARS, New York / ADAGP, Paris; Le Jongleur 1944 © 2023 ARS, New York / ADAGP, Paris. Alberto Giacometti: Caroline in a Red Dress (1965) © Succession Alberto Giacometti / ARS, NY 2023; Portrait of Yanaihara (1960-62), © Succession Alberto Giacometti / ARS, NY 2023. Photograph: Bonnie H Morrison

For now, however, the gallery is open to whichever 20 lucky punters manage to score a spot on a tour. Vagueness aside, Arnheim is optimistic about the opening. “I don’t understand what their strategy is. But in the end, they’re doing the right thing, and that’s what’s important.”

For Storr, however, a few days a month is not good enough. “It’s grudging – you need to make a place where people feel comfortable coming in, and I know that many people feel uncomfortable even going to the galleries, which are free.” Indeed, the intrigue surrounding the collection as the result of its previous exclusivity may serve to further entrench a perception of art by well-loved artists as trophy collectibles for tycoons, rather than magnificent works for the city to revel in. Or, as Storr puts it, “just expensive things that somebody else owns and you get a chance to see”.

The reaction to the gallery’s opening on New York’s gallery circuit has been more ambivalent. Some stuck up their noses at its office-building location; some hadn’t even heard about it. For others, a lack of enthusiasm had more to do with the competition than the quality of the collection itself. As Ray Waterhouse, co-owner of the Upper East Side gallery Waterhouse & Dodd, pointed out, the city’s museums are stuffed with fabulous paintings. “So it’s somewhat irrelevant to the New York art landscape,” he said. “I’m not saying it’s not worthy.”

The art world has moved on from Solow’s mid-century taste. But there’s a value to the (intermittent) opening of a small, manageable collection of crowd-pleasers around the corner from MoMA and its long queues. With dynamic curation and a dramatic increase in the number of hours it’s open, the Soloviev gallery could come to be known for the quality of the art it houses rather than for its inaccessibility. As for the social barriers carefully built up by the collection habits of the international super-rich – that damage might take longer to unpick.

Not least in New York City, the art world’s financial capital. The tour ended with a glass of champagne in the building’s swanky subterranean restaurant, Cucina 8½. Afterward, I made my way past Bergdorf Goodman to the 59th Street subway station, where a man sat on the steps with a box of pastels and a cardboard sign which read: “Artist in need.”

[oomox]

[Image ID: pages of a book. The text reads:

The first physical labor pains took place in a make-up room at the Desilu Studios in Hollywood. I sat down in front of a mirror, and Lee Greenway, a durable make-up man and old acquaintance from Kid Monk Baroni, started to experiment with an admittedly crude application of the first pair of pointed ears. They were "built-up" with layers of paper tissue and liquid latex, never expected to be acceptable but only to give an indication of what the effect might be. Well, it was as bizarre as the result of a child playing with her mother's make-up. It was gruesome, ludicrous, and very depressing. Roddenberry and Herb Solow, head of television production at the studio, asked my permission to run some video tape on me, to be studied in the projection room. I agreed and was led onto the stage of I Love Lucy. Fortunately the audience had not arrived for the day's taping. But the crew, 15 or 20 craftsmen, was asked to light me and run some footage.

The results were painful. Had the make-up been complete, the wardrobe present, the character fully realized, it would have been difficult. Under the circumstances, dressed in very casual street clothes with a crude pair of pointed ears, in the context of the I Love Lucy set, it was, to say the least, painful. And yet, here it was, the beginning of the public exposure of the extraterrestrial.

I found myself taking mental notes. Storing away emotional memories which might someday be useful in the role. Those feelings of being alien, almost to the point of being ridiculous. Knowing that each of these people would be composing clever lines of dialogue to exchange after I had gone. These were the real seeds from which the emotional structure of Spock would grow.

I was moving into the world of an extraterrestrial. Already I could feel myself building defenses, attempting to elevate my thinking above and beyond a concern for the opinion of mere humans. I was of another realm and they could think what they would.

Several weeks later, I would have a similar experience during the first day of shooting on the pilot film. Fully wardrobed in the uniform prescribed by Starfleet, and in full make-up, I stepped onto the sound stage at the studio for the first time. This time, at least in a physical sense, the character was complete.

My agent was there to greet me. With him was a lovely female client. Her reaction was startling. She was open and obvious in her interest, and gave me my first exposure to the generous and gratifying female reaction which was to come, synthesized in Dr. Isaac Asimov's later description of Spock as "a security blanket with sexual overtones."

/end image ID.]

Leonard Nimoy, from I Am Not Spock (1975)

[vintagemanhattanskyline]

Night view of Midtown Manhattan skyline. View looking southeast from Fort Lee, New Jersey, Autumn, 1973. 

The new Solow Buidling (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, 1974) and Pan Am building (Walter Gropius-Emery Roth & Sons-Pietro Belluschi, 1963) are at left. Rockefeller Center’s R.C.A. Building (Associated Architects, 1933) and skyscrapers surrounding it are at center. At right can be seen the Uris Plaza (Emery Roth & Sons, 1972) and One Astor Plaza (Kahn & Jacobs, 1972), and above them, the top of the Empire State Building (Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, 1931) fully illuminated, dominates the skyline.

Photo: Unknown.

[jm-photos]

Smooth.

09.01.2017

Central Park

New York, NY

[andreagew]

Abandoned Classroom (Drawing from Dream), Illustration, Pen drawing, 2019