Latest news with #LA-based
CNN
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- CNN
The LA farmer's market where celebrities are as plentiful as the produce
Even if you have never been to Los Angeles, you may still harbor a subconscious awareness of Studio City Farmers Market. There, amongst the 85 organic produce vendors, did paparazzi first snap Jeremy Allen White back in 2023 straining against the weight of freshly-cut flowers the size of his torso — a sight that has since become a viral sensation. So memorable is that sighting of White that it was even raised during a recent appearance on 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.' 'You're always carrying giant bouquets of flowers everywhere you are, I love it. It's your thing,' said Fallon. 'I have this farmer's market near my house,' White said. 'It's on Sundays and I just love going there, I love having flowers in my house.' Apparently, so does every other celebrity within a 20 mile radius of the southeast San Fernando Valley, where Studio City Farmers Market — an LA institution that has been running since 1998, and White's farmers' market of choice — is located. So common are famous faces (Anne Hathaway, Jacob Elordi, Paris Hilton, Elle Fanning, Anwar Hadid and Barbara Palvin, to name a few) that Yelp reviews of the market often include an elated description of an A-lister sighting. On Getty alone, over 700 images are geotagged inside the space; while image platform Alamy features more than 4,000 photos shot there. Appetite for the market is growing, according to executive director of Studio City Chamber of Commerce, Esther Walker. Each week, she fields between five and ten vendor applications from growers and small businesses keen to sell at the storied location. First-time traders need not apply, Walker told CNN earlier this year, in light of the footfall of a few thousand that descend each week — which, for less experienced vendors, can be 'overwhelming.' 'Business is always nice for our vendors, but it is an extremely popular farmer's market,' she said. 'We're very crowded.' Despite White's recent endorsement of the market on prime-time TV, star power has always been part of Studio City's story. Walker began working for the Chamber of Commerce in 2007, just one year before the market's organizers made the decision to hire professional security. 'The reason was because we had so many issues with paparazzi,' she said. 'We had some really aggressive paparazzi that were following around actor parents with their kids and made them feel uncomfortable. We just felt like we needed to do something.' Currently, the market employs three security staff members, as well as three undercover security guards — all retired police officers. Paparazzi attitudes have evolved, however. 'I would say that the issues we had about 15 years ago don't really exist now,' said Walker. 'They tend to be a little more respectable, and they stay further away.' For Mike Arnoldi, an LA-based celebrity photographer, Studio City Farmers Market has been a certified hunting patch since it opened almost three decades ago. 'There's always been a steady flow of celebrities,' he said in a phone call. 'It just changes who's going to be there.' Back in the day, it was 'In Cold Blood' (1967) actor Robert Blake or James Franco, recalled Arnoldi. Now, it's White, Hilary Duff and 'Pretty Little Liars' actor Lucy Hale who he sees the most. Walker, who once swiftly recognized the market's A-lister clientele, such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, admitted that she was less familiar with the newer generation of stars who visit today. 'We get a lot of celebrities that my younger staff say, 'Oh my god, that's so-and-so from some show,'' she said. 'But I have no idea who they are.' Arnoldi — who counts himself one of the best celebrity spotters in the business — will start his day at the farmer's market around 9am and work straight through to 1pm, photographing on average around 20 different people. 'I shoot about 1,500 photos there, and then we narrow it down to about 40 that get sent out (to agencies like Getty and Backgrid).' His photos of White have been among the most lucrative, selling for around $400 each. Other celebrity shots can vary anywhere from a nickel to $20 — a far cry from the couple thousand dollars a photographer might receive for a single film image, before the advent of digital cameras. Any images that feature children, Arnoldi says, are not distributed. While it's not illegal, he considers profiting off the photos of children 'unethical' and urges his staff to do the same. Related vertical video With $10 million, you can buy a private island… or this handbag Not every celebrity wants their grocery run broadcast to the world, however. Lindsay Dix, who runs the bone broth stand ReBroth at Studio City with her business partner Mia Roe, says she has met most of her famous clients at the market — though several now order privately and have the soup delivered to their home. Not only is it more convenient, but it also prevents them from being 'out and chased around by the paparazzi,' she said. Dix added there's another reason for privacy, too: 'I used to do celebrity catering for 20 years, and a lot of people that claim to be vegan or vegetarian actually did eat meat.' Still, Arnoldi (who has made friends with many of the subjects of his images) has a handful of A-listers who feel differently. Some, he said, even call to give him a heads-up that they will be there on a particular day, bushels of lettuce in hand, hoping to be photographed.
Business Wire
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
Tom of Finland Foundation Presents FXLK Play: Mythmaking, Devotion, and Mischief at Tom of Finland Foundation
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tom of Finland Foundation (ToFF) presents FXLK PLAY: Mythmaking, Devotion, and Mischief at Tom of Finland Foundation, its inaugural group exhibition of work by the more than 60 LGBTQ+ artists from around the world who have been granted residencies at the historic TOM House in Echo Park. It opens on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at Long Hall in Plummer Park, 1200 North Vista Street, West Hollywood, California, with opening remarks at 3:00 pm by Edward Cella, ToFF CEO, followed by a keynote address by exhibition curator, Jamison Edgar, a panel conversation featuring recent and current artists-in-residence, and a special performance and reception from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The exhibition will be on view, with docents on site, Thursdays through Sundays, from noon to 5:00 pm, and runs through October 12, 2025. A robust schedule of free public programming is planned for Long Hall and throughout the City of West Hollywood, in collaboration with public and private partners, organizations and local businesses. Curated by LA-based artist, writer, and curator Jamison Edgar, FXLK PLAY celebrates fifteen years of ToFF's Artist-in-Residence Program. It frames TOM House as a living pantheon of Queer mythmaking, where, for over forty years, artists have been creating art. Featuring over sixty artworks across painting, drawing, sculpture, video, and sound, FXLK PLAY transforms Long Hall into an immersive environment inspired by the densely hung walls of erotic art at TOM House. Moving between small groupings and richly layered, salon-style clusters, the installation plays with scale and rhythm to create a dynamic, enveloping field of Queer imagery. 'The exhibition proposes Tom of Finland as a modern folk hero, with his move to Los Angeles marking a shift from underground icon to something larger: a storied figure whose image is continually rewritten through the desires, anxieties, and fantasies of Queer life today,' Edgar said. 'At TOM House, the artists-in-residence are at the center of this work. They don't simply reflect Tom's life, they continually remake it: In doing so, they become the orators of his evolving legacy, carrying it forward into the future,' they said. Organized into four thematic sections, the exhibition explores themes of mythology, devotion and erotic mischief. 'House of Gods' draws on the home's symbols and archives, including more than 1,000 works by Tom of Finland and 8,000 pieces by other LGBTQ+ artists. 'Pleasure Park' explores how desire transforms physical space, inspired by the gardens and private moments at TOM House. 'Skeletons in the Closet' invites artists to examine taboo, kink, race and gender. A listening station features recorded reflections from past residents. 'DOM TOM' honors Tom's legacy by highlighting how today's artists push boundaries through eroticism and imagination. 'This is a momentous opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of our Artist-in-Residence Program alumni and understand the collective narratives that have been created through their artmaking activities," said Edward Cella, CEO of ToFF. 'This exhibition and the related free public programs—all happening in a landmark West Hollywood location that has long been a Queer space—showcases our organization's dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all LGBTQ+ identities, ethnicities, and backgrounds, as well as deepening the Foundation's relevance in the current moment.' Participating artists include: Marcel Alcalá, Pol Anglada, Sam Ashby, Aurélien Nobécourt-Arras, Yinon Avoir, M Black, Tristor Blue, Rachel Britton, Rowland Byass, Tom Cho, Antonio Da Silva, Ryan Davis, James Davison, Carlos Enfedaque, Felix d'Eon, Michael Espinoza, Xiaobing Fan, Fausto, Ed Firth, Carrington Galen, FCK-Frédérick Gautier, Jordan Michael Green, Brian Grillo, Onur Hastürk, Mark Timothy Hayward, Antoni Hervás, Florian Hetz, Rinaldo Hopf, Hovvrad, Yun-Pei, Jamison Rockmore, Antti Kauppinen, Christine Kessler, Michael Kirwan, Bas Kosters, Phuc Le, Rev. Steven Johnson Leyba, David Lindert, Jacob Love, Łukasz Leja, Éamon McGivern, Konstantinos Menelaou, Mies Mikkonen, Carta Monir, Oat Montien, Orpheus, Palanca, Joel Parsons, Gio Black Peter, Brontez Purnell, Tero Puha, Stuart Sandford, Donald C. Shorter Jr., Jonathan David Smyth, Sung Hwan Bobby Park, Sweatmother, Vincent Tiley, Basil Twist, Henning von Berg, Daphne Von Rey, Gray Wielebinski, Ben Youdan, and Paweł Żukowski. ToFF artists-in-residence have a wide range of career achievements both before and after their time at TOM House. Examples include Pol Anglada, who has collaborated on capsule collections and prints with fashion brands such as Moncler, JW Anderson, Phipps, and Ami, and worked with musicians like Bad Gyal and John Carroll Kirby. He has created artwork for magazines such as Gay Letter, Butt, Têtu, Kink, and more. Another notable ToFF artist-in-residence is Stuart Sandford, a multidisciplinary artist based between London, Los Angeles, and Mexico City. Working across various media, he has exhibited his work worldwide, notably at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit and the Centre de la Photographie in Geneva. His work has appeared in numerous publications and is included in several prominent collections, including the Sir Elton John and David Furnish Photography Collection, the Ömer Koç Collection, and the Rennie Collection. Sandford is a member of the Royal Society of Sculptors. Support: Lead sponsors for FXLK PLAY include the City of West Hollywood and the John Burton Harter Foundation. About Tom of Finland Foundation Tom of Finland Foundation was established in 1984 to preserve Tom's vast catalog of work. Over time, the organization's mission expanded to provide a safe haven for LGBTQ+ artists in response to widespread discrimination and censorship of art that portrays sexual behavior or generates a sexual response. Today, building on its history of advocating for, and collecting artwork by, LGBTQ+ artists who draw inspiration from their sexuality, identity, and experience, ToFF champions creative expression and empowers artists to share their unique voices with the world helping to ensure that Tom's artistic legacy positively impacts current and future generations of LGBTQ+ artists. Tom of Finland Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under California and federal law. About Tom of Finland Foundation's Artist-in-Residence Program Tom of Finland Foundation's A-i-R Program offers an immersive three-month experience for visiting artists at historic TOM House in Los Angeles that provides them the opportunity to cultivate their freedom of expression and engage with the Foundation's extensive collections and archives, thereby nurturing their emerging talent and building new levels of support for their artistic practices. The Foundation's Collection Tom of Finland Foundation is one of the largest repositories of Queer and erotic art and is frequented by academic researchers. ToFF maintains a permanent collection of over 1,000 original works by Tom and more than 8,000 additional works by 800 other LGBTQ+ artists. ToFF also has a library of 3,500 books and 400 linear feet of archives containing periodicals, film, photographs, and ephemera that documents more than a half-century of LGBTQ+ culture and history. About Jamison Edgar Jamison Edgar (they/them) is a Los Angeles based curator who collaborates with a range of institutions, galleries, and artist collectives. From 2021 to 2024 they served as Director at Honor Fraser and is the co-founder of DEPARTURE LOUNGE, a nomadic exhibition platform supporting overworked artists and underfunded models of cultural exchange. Edgar is simultaneously developing programming for Metabolic Studio, another LA Eastside art organization. Edgar studied history and art at Carnegie Mellon University and creative writing at The University of Georgia. Their writing has been published by the Miller Institute for Contemporary Art, Contemporary Performance, and the Estonian Pavilion at the 59th Venice Biennale. They are 2023-'24 Supercollider Art+Sci Ambassadors and serve on the executive board of the New Media Caucus (NMC). Edgar's exhibitions have been featured in national publications including Artforum, Frieze, Hyperallergic, Art Papers, Art Review, Los Angeles Times and NPR.
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Eric Idle reignites Monty Python feud as he brands co-star ‘a hypocrite' for ‘turning down $30m' reunion
He previously complained about his co-star's daughter's handling of the Python profit holy fail Eric Idle reignites Monty Python feud as he brands co-star 'a hypocrite' for 'turning down $30m' reunion Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) COMEDY royalty Eric Idle appears to have refuelled the financial fire between his former Monty Python co-stars. LA-based Eric, 82, previously said he is still having to work as he receives only a fraction of the millions the legendary comedy team have made in the past. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 6 Eric Idle has called his Python co-star a hypocrite for his comments about their split Credit: PA 6 Michael Palin, John Cleese, Graham Chapman, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones in Monty Python's Life of Brian in 1979 Credit: Rex Features The trailblazing Pythons included Idle, John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Gilliam and the late Terry Jones - and were responsible for films Life of Brian, hit stage show Spamalot and the original Flying Circus BBC TV series. The 82-year-old told The Big Issue: "Michael [Palin] said he was sad to see us break up? He was the first to leave! He's such a hypocrite. "I mean in some ways we split up immediately before The Holy Grail. "John didn't want to do a fourth series. After that we decided to just stick to films. "After Life of Brian, we actually did The Meaning of Life, which was our last film together. "Graham died shortly after that. Also, I think, when you've done religion and then the meaning of life, there are very few subjects left." He continued: "I can't believe Michael said he was sad. He turned down the opportunity to do it in America, in Australia, in South Africa. He turned down $30 million!" In 2024, Idle revealed the surviving Pythons were locked in a feud over finances. In messages on X, Idle previously wrote: 'I don't know why people always assume we're loaded. "I have to work for my living. I never dreamed that at this age the income streams would tail off so disastrously. 'Like a Monty Python skit' - Incredible jockey running race goes viral as fans hail 'greatest thing ever seen' 'I have been working and earning for Pythons since 1995. And now no more.' He added: 'I guess if you put a Gilliam child [Holly] in as your manager you should not be so surprised. 'One Gilliam is bad enough. Two can take out any company.' Despite the success of 1975's Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Life of Brian had funding issues and was almost canned - but was saved by a Beatle. In a Letter To My Younger Self for The Big Issue, the Monty Python star said: 'I got lucky, because I had to. I survived pancreatic cancer. "So I feel that since 2019 I've had a reprieve. I don't know or care what people say about me, I'm lucky every single day.' He said: 'For a while we had no money. [Media proprietor] Lew Grade read it and just went nuts. He said, we can't possibly make this. I went to America to find money. 'I had been talking to George Harrison who was a huge fan, and he said, 'I'll phone you in the morning, don't worry'. And I thought, well, nobody's got four and a half million dollars. 'But finally, when everybody turned us down, there was a call from him saying, 'I've got you the money'. 'He had mortgaged his house and his business and raised the cash and put it all on a Python film. The most extraordinary thing to do.' 6 Monty Python's Flying Circus star Eric has had issues over the Python's finances Credit: Alamy 6 Michael Palin said he was 'sad' to see the Pythons break up - which Eric has disagreed with Credit: Getty 6 Actor Eric - who is based in LA - has spoken out about the financial inequality he has faced Credit: AFP
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
LA-based DJ duo Almost Famous may take centre stage in youth-driven drama ‘The Tribe'
The Tribe , a series produced by Karan Johar 's Dharmatic Entertainment, has also appealed to audiences with its music and the presence of Almost Famous. Amidst a sea of talent in the world of entertainment, it is no walk in the park to stand out from others. Among enormously talented individuals, those who stand out are the ones who do the unconventional. This very quality has worked wonders for them, helping them become promising talents in the ever-evolving industry. One such show, The Tribe , showcased the skills of young Indian influencers as they tried to make it big in Los Angeles. However, the show, which was produced by Karan Johar's Dharmatic Entertainment, also gained popularity for its musical appeal and the presence of the LA-based duo Almost Famous, comprising producers and DJs Simarjeet Saini and Rishab Sadarangani. The show's early reception from audiences proved why it reached the No. 1 spot on OTT platforms in India, Canada, and the Middle East. It was hailed for its fresh exploration of youth, music culture, and the complicated journey of rising artists. One of the unexpected highlights of the show has been the music—an eclectic blend of East and West—largely in the signature style of Almost Famous. Their track, Let Me Go , featured in a visually captivating music video that became the talk of the town. Their recent track Unsick with Tyla Yaweh was filmed vibrantly in Mumbai. Simarjeet Saini also produced the music video that garnered 50 million streams in its debut month, featuring French Montana and Guru Randhawa . by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Dividend Stocks With Strong Ratings Seeking Alpha Read Now Undo The duo's involvement in both the music and storyline of The Tribe reflects the growing trend of global collaborations in the OTT space. Industry sources say that the show's producers have not yet confirmed the extent of the duo's involvement in future seasons, but early indicators suggest their roles may expand. Hardik Zaveri, who manages business strategy for the duo, stated that production discussions are already underway for Season 2 of The Tribe . Viewer metrics from OTT platforms indicate a strong youth demographic, with engagement driven by the music and its realistic portrayal of the creative industry. Further details on Season 2 of the show, including the presence of Almost Famous, are expected to be announced soon.
Fashion Network
08-07-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
LA-based Styled by Collective launches in UK
The Styled by Collective has landed in the UK, with the LA-based entrepreneur and style-setter Hayley Sullivan opening her tech-driven luxury styling service. The platform offers a limited membership, curated fashion experience with the service blending digital wardrobe management with exclusive shopping access and personal style concierge support. It draws on Sullivan's tech background and 'keen eye for style… to bridge the gap between digital convenience and personalised service'. The comprehensive service includes personal styling and wardrobe edit sessions; one-to-one consultations (virtually or in person); fully photographed and categorised digital wardrobe to track usage, plan outfits and stay organised while travelling and across the seasons; capsule wardrobe creation; lookbook curation and personal shopping; on-demand style concierge; and year-round support for travel, events and seasonal refreshes. 'We don't just create beautiful wardrobes — we offer structure, clarity, and convenience,' said Sullivan. She added that her approach became especially relevant earlier this year, when she lost her home in the California wildfires. Thanks to her own digital wardrobe archive, she was able to efficiently file insurance claims — a real-world example of how wardrobe documentation can extend beyond fashion. UK clients can now request access through a private application form at The company said a limited number of new clients will be accepted each season.
