Refuge, Five Cities

Architect-turned-photographer Bas Princen's images of the Middle East

by Alexandra Polier Known for beautifully raw images of the modern world, Bas Princen’s exhibit “Refuge, Five Cities” currently on display at the Storefront for Art and Architecture shows a series of rare architectural finds in the Middle East. A trained architect, Princen uses photography not only to capture a sense of space but also as a way of subtly discussing current problems occurring within …

Bespoke: The Handbuilt Bicycle

NYC's design museum celebrates the craftsmanship of custom bikes

While there’s no denying the sheer eye-candy appeal of the 21 bikes currently on display at NYC’s Museum of Art and Design, the show goes beyond the glossy frames, contoured leather seats, and clever accessories, delving into the intensive craftsmanship that drives the growing rebirth of the trade. Called “Bespoke: The Handbuilt Bicycle,” the exhibit emphasizes both the level of customization and the painstaking techniques …

Small Is Beautiful

Multi-talented artists build miniature cities with their towering creativity

Thankfully, not everyone has outgrown the shoebox dioramas of their school days. Opening today, 12 May 2010, at Manhattan’s Murphy and Dine gallery, “Small Is Beautiful” showcases miniature cities painstakingly constructed by five artists. Curated by Scion and Theme Magazine, the accomplished group builds upon the headlining motif, tapping into themes such as childhood, urbanism and cultural diversity. Acclaimed for his wallpaper designs, prints and …