By Amy Musser
W I T N E S S:
Digital Perspectives: Maja Petric, Peter Gronquist, Etsuko Ichikawa
In the latest exhibit at Winston Wachter Fine Art Gallery, three artists display their art through different digital mediums. Each artist’s forray is otherworldly and somehow similarly transformative, but also stand well on their own. Maja Petric has gained recognition for her other most recent show We Are All Made of Light, an interactive exhibition where viewers become ephemeral “stardust” trails that linger over time, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things. In this current exhibit from the artist, she places the viewer in surreal landscapes where they can interact with nature as she has created it. Also on display is the meditative work of Peter Gronquist, which features an undulating golden sheet flapping in the wind, playing with light, shadow, and perhaps a touch of the absurd, or maybe the beauty of a small moment in translation.
In case you aren’t familiar with this gallery, Winston Wachter is located on Denny Ave. and showcases primarily contemporary and 20th Century art. The gallerists also have a showroom in New York City, and specialize in acquiring and selling unique and striking works of art. DIgital Perspectives opens tonight and is on display through December. If you like more cutting-edge contemporary work, this is surely a gallery to keep an eye on.
W A T C H:
The Battle of Algiers or SIFF Italian Style
“Maybe if we told the truth about history, we’d start telling the truth about the present;” wise words from director Gillo Pontecarvo. His 1966 film, The Battle of Algiers, is playing at the newest little arthouse heater in South Seattle, The Beacon. This film, which has been noted by many as one of the best war films of all time, features a stunning soundtrack by Ennio Morricone, and is shot in a neorealist style. The film itself chronicles the three-year Battle of Algiers, and the screenplay was adapted from the memoirs of Saadi Yacef, a leader in the National Liberation Front. The film is so realistic, in fact, that the U.S. issued a decree that “not a single real newsreel” was actually used when it hit American theaters in the sixties.
If war movies aren’t your thing, but Italian cinema is, then skip The Beacon and head to SiFF Uptown where some of Italy’s best contemporary films will be playing for the next week or so during this mini Italian film festival. From the rise of the first Italian female boxer in the Butterfly documentary, to a commentary on the Selfie, there is sure to be something that strikes your fancy. Cinema Italian Style runs from Nov. 7 through 14, and tickets are available for preorder here.
T A S T E:
Harry’s Beach House on Alki
In between rough-hewn brick walls, where vintage art and mismatched silverware abound, is a new little restaurant in the old Tully’s Coffee spot on Alki that radiates charm and warmth. Those who know Harry’s on Capitol Hill will find the same cozy vibes here too, only with a bit more of a beachy feel, and some nice sunset views too.
Harry’s has become known for its delicious seasonal menus, natural wine, and ultra-friendly waitstaff. Based upon reviews from the fans who’ve dined there, this new locale doesn’t disappoint. Many folks have called out the brunch waffles and schnitzel, and apparently the burger is the best in the city. Sounds like a perfect day date after a stroll along the beach. You’ll find us there this weekend! Harry’s Beach House is open for brunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday.