About Contributor

Beautiful photo of Doctor Tianlong Jiao

Bowers Museum Chief Curator

The Bowers Museum is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Tianlong Jiao as its new Chief Curator, commencing this December. With over two decades of distinguished experience in museum curation and administration, both in the United States and Hong Kong, Dr. Tianlong Jiao is poised to help usher the Museum into anew era of innovative exhibitions and international collaborations alongside Bowers Museum’s recently appointed President, Dr. Seán O’Harrow, who joined the Bowers last August.

Dr. Tianlong Jiao’s illustrious career spans roles as the Head Curator at the Hong Kong Palace Museum, Head and Curator of the Asian Art Department at the Denver Art Museum, Head and Curator of the Chinese Art Department at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, and Chairman of the Anthropology Department at the Bishop Museum in Hawaii, among others.

At Bowers Museum, Dr. Jiao will manage the esteemed permanent collection, guiding its travel, helming new acquisitions, and refreshing onsite permanent galleries. A special emphasis will be placed under his stewardship on Asian featured exhibitions, a domain in which Bowers Museum has historically excelled in. “I am thrilled to join the Bowers Museum family! The museum’s world-class exhibitions and collections have been a great inspiration to me, and I look forward to contributing to the future of this “Best Museum” in Orange County.” – Dr. Tianlong Jiao. Dr. Tianlong Jiao holds a Ph.D. in anthropology from Harvard, an M.A. in archaeology from the graduate school of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing, and a B.A. in archaeology from Beijing University. Dr. Tianlong Jiao’s academic prowess is evident in his extensive research in Chinese archaeology, art history, Pacific archaeology, and Japanese ceramics. An author of seven books and over a hundred academic papers in both English and Chinese, Dr. Jiao was also the honored recipient of the Philip and Eugenia Cho Award for Outstanding Scholarship in Asian Studies in 2007 for book “The Neolithic of Southeast China” (Cambria
Press, 2007).

His most recent achievement includes editing the exhibition catalogue Grand Gallop: Art and Culture of the Horse at the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which was awarded “Best Art and Design” at the 2023 Hong Kong Publishing Biennial Awards. This catalog was created in association with a special exhibition, showcasing horse culture and arts globally, which was undertaken as a team effort including Dr. Tianlong Jiao and the Hong Kong Palace Museum in partnership with the Palace Museum in Beijing and the Louvre in Paris. Dr. Jiao’s appointment marks a significant moment for the Bowers Museum. “With the recent addition of our new President and CEO, Dr. Seán O’Harrow, and now Tianlong Jiao, I see the promise of an exciting new era for our institution becoming reality” states Anne Shih, Chairwoman of the Board of Governors at Bowers Museum. “I am confident that Dr. Tianlong Jiao’s unparalleled curatorial expertise and experience, particularly in Asian and Pacific art, will prove vital to our future success as a museum with global connections. I look forward to working closely with him and our fantastic team on an array of exciting projects as we present exhibitions that engage our communities and are relevant to the public.” – Dr. Seán O’Harrow
For more information about the Bowers Museum and its upcoming exhibitions, please visit bowers.org.

About Bowers Museum:
Located in the historic heart of Orange County, Bowers Museum’s 8 permanent collection exhibitions showcase art and artifacts from cultures around the world. As the largest and one of the oldest museums in Orange County, Bowers has been voted ‘Best Museum’ in Orange County for the past 30 years(as of 2023). Partnering with world-class institutions, Bowers Museum’s past featured exhibitions include blockbusters such as Terracotta Warriors; Mummies: Death and the Afterlife in Ancient Egypt…Treasures from the British Museum; Lucy’s Legacy: The Hidden Treasure of Ethiopia; Holy Land: Dead Sea Scrolls, House of David Inscription; and Guo Pei: Art of
Couture. Learn more at bowers.org.

Now on view, Bowers Museum’s fall/winter featured exhibitions include The Power of Photography and Beyond the Great Wave: Works by Hokusai from the British Museum. Learn more at bowers.org/Hokusai and bowers.org/photography.

Beautiful picture of Miss America all in red.

Miss America Goes Red

Miss America, the iconic 100+ year brand, and Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation, a 501(c)(3), announce a 3-year commitment supporting American Heart Association’s women’s initiative, Go Red for Women® raising awareness of women’s heart health and bringing fitness initiatives back to the national competition stage.

Miss America’s CEO Robin Fleming feels that, “Empowering women in America means making health a priority – heart disease is the leading cause of death for women ages 20 and older. We need to raise awareness and incorporate fitness initiatives to create better outcomes.”

The American Heart Association, devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives, has been on the forefront of fighting heart disease and strokes for a century. Since 2004, Go Red for Women has supported women through every season of life as their trusted, relevant source for credible, equitable health solutions. ​

“In the 20 years Go Red for Women has worked to save and improve women’s lives, one thing we’ve learned is women—particularly young women—need to know heart disease doesn’t discriminate,” said Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association. “Anyone can be a lifesaver,” she continued. “You just need to know the signs and symptoms and have confidence to speak up. The life you save could be your own.”

Miss America’s support for the Go Red for Women movement will encompass public awareness campaigns, community outreach, fundraising for health initiatives and participant scholarship opportunities, as well as highlighting women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). All efforts to further an overall goal of improving women’s health and well-being. Both organizations will harness their collective reach to advocate for a heart-healthy America.

About The Miss America Opportunity

Miss America is the nation’s premier empowerment platform for young women, advancing both personal and professional goals while advocating community service as a positive role model in their communities. With a rich history dating back to 1921, Miss America’s mission is “Empowering women to Lead” engaging thousands of young women as local and state brand ambassadors, ages 14-28, nationwide each year committed to community service initiatives. The program is the largest provider of women’s scholarships in America, distributed through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3).

Preview to book and its success on Amazon platform.

Acclaimed Surfer Movie and Book

Chip Rohlke, the acclaimed Surfer, and Chaplain, is excited to announce his availability for interviews and speaking engagements to discuss the profound and life-changing book, “Night Dive to Heaven: The Miraculous Life Changing Experience of Ian McCormack” and the movie “The Perfect Wave.”

Ian McCormack’s extraordinary journey from a New Zealand surfer in search of something more to a near-death experience that led to an encounter with Heaven and God has captivated the hearts and minds of over 75 million people around the world. McCormack’s compelling story has been featured on prominent media outlets such as TBN, the 700 Club, and many others. The story of his miraculous survival and transformation is now being unveiled in Chip Rohlke’s new book, “Night Dive to Heaven.”

In the book, readers will be taken on a riveting journey through Ian McCormack’s life-changing night dive on the remote island of Mauritius. After being stung by five deadly box jellyfish, McCormack miraculously made it to the hospital, only to die and return to life more than 15 minutes later. What followed was a dramatic encounter with both Hell and Heaven, a face-to-face meeting with God, and a transformation that reshaped his life forever.

“The Perfect Wave,” a 2014 biographical drama film about Ian McCormack’s life, starring Scott Eastwood as McCormack, also highlights the incredible story of his journey from a Kiwi surfer on his overseas experience in Mauritius to becoming a minister.

Ian McCormack’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone who has ever faced adversity, questioned their faith, or sought a deeper purpose in life. Chip Rohlke, with his unique insights and perspective, is available for interviews and speaking engagements to shed light on the profound and life-affirming message of “Night Dive to Heaven.”

To schedule an interview with Chip Rohlke or Ian McCormack text Chip at [321-298-9796] or email Chip at chiprohlke@aol.com.

For more information about the book, “Night Dive to Heaven: The Miraculous Life Changing Experience of Ian McCormack,” visit [Amazon.com].

About Chip Rohlke: Chip is a Serial Entrepreneur, Surfer and Chaplain for the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team.

About Ian McCormack: Ian was night diving off the island of Mauritius when he was stung by 5 Box Jellyfish, which are among the most venomous creatures in the world. He is an author and speaker and lives in New Zealand. 

Ian McCormack’s story in “Night Dive to Heaven” has been heard by nearly 100 million people globally. 

REPLY “book” to this email for a FREE copy of “Night Dive to Heaven”

Steve Aoki × End of the World

Steve Aoki

2x-Grammy-nominated artist Steve Aoki and Multi-Platinum Tokyo-based group End of the World released the brand new self-titled End of the World today Beautifully synchronizing the individual styles of both artists, the single sees End of the World lead singer Fukase’s whispery falsetto smoothly glide over Aoki’s signature electronic groove. The track pulses with positive energy from start to finish, leading with a universal message about tapping into the present. Listen here.

The End of the World’s origin story began with Aoki as a fan of the band, who are known for performing in Japan to stadium-sized audiences upwards of 140K fans. Sooner than later, Aoki reached out, and End of the World was excited to join forces. This intense exchange of energy and emotion between Aoki and Fukase inspired them to hit the studio to work on an original collaboration, which would ultimately become End of the World. During the process, the two finally met this summer in July, when Fukase appeared on stage at one of Aoki’s Las Vegas performances. The song’s refrain “Don’t tell me it’s the end of the world tonight” suggests a longing for the night to keep going and to feel hopeful again, energized by the return to live music and their shared experience being back on stage.

Aoki, who was recently announced as an Asian Hall of Fame inductee for the class of 2021, says of the project, “I’ve been a big fan of End of the World’s music for a while now, so when the opportunity came up to work with them, I was honored. It’s always fun for me to collaborate with Japanese artists given my heritage, and to bring that to the rest of the world. The song we made is special not only in its lyrical content, but in its uplifting melody, and I am so excited for it to be out for everyone to dance and sing along to.

End of the World’s Fukase adds, “As our first ever self-titled work, this song brings me back to the time in my life when I had lost everything that it literally felt like it was the end of the world. Thats how the band’s name came about, to remind all of us that it is never too late to start anything, even from the very end. Lyric-wise, this song sounds a lot like a normal love song, but I also feel like every word is meant for my old self in the past.”

About Steve Aoki

Steve Aoki, the two-time Grammy-nominated producer/DJ is one of today’s most successful American cross-genre artists, collectively counting 2.8 billion music streams on Spotify. As the founder of the trendsetting record label, events/lifestyle company, and apparel line Dim Mak Records, which he founded in 1996, Aoki has helped launch the careers of global acts like The Chainsmokers, Bloc Party, The Bloody Beetroots, The Gossip, and The Kills, among many others. Dim Mak today counts more than 1,000 official releases from the biggest acts and most buzzing newcomers across EDM, indie rock, hip-hop and beyond over its two-decades-plus discography. As a solo artist, Aoki boasts a lauded discography that includes: Wonderland (2012), his debut solo album, which garnered him his first-ever Grammy nomination for Best Dance/Electronica Album; hip-hop centric Kolony (2017), and the Neon Future series, which includes Neon Future I (2014, certified gold by the RIAA), Neon Future II (2015), Neon Future III (2018) and the recently released Neon Future IV (April 2020); which has rocketed in streaming to date and received praise from singles such as Maldad; ft. Maluma and Let It Be Me, ft. Backstreet Boys. Recognized by Forbes as one of the top 5 world’s highest paid DJ’s and the world’s hardest working DJ, Aoki is “one of the most in-demand entertainers in the world” (Billboard), counting more than 250 tour dates per year. In 2012, Aoki founded The Aoki Foundation, which primarily supports organizations in the brain science and research areas with a specific focus on regenerative medicine and brain preservation, more information HERE. Most recently, Steve Aoki released his critically acclaimed memoir entitled, “Blue: The Color of Noise” published by St. Martin’s Press.

About End of the World

Since their debut in Japan, End of the World composed of 4 childhood friends Fukase, Nakajin, Saori and D.J. Love have swept the Japanese music scene as Sekai No Owari quickly gained momentum, touring sold-out arenas and stadiums all over Asia. In keeping with the ambition and desire to share music with a global audience, End of the World is completely reinvented as the band’s new moniker to take an innovative approach with their music. Their single Lost featuring Clean Bandit was play-listed on BBC Radio2 gaining 30M+ streams worldwide. After many years of making, End of the World released a debut album Chameleon reflecting the journey as End of the Word.

Steve Aoki Wikipedia HERE

360 Magazine Golden Cat Issue HERE.

image by benjamin church for use by 360 magazine

KITO – BLOSSOM

KITO’S NEW EP, BLOSSOM, SET FOR RELEASE ON NOVEMBER 5 VIA ASTRALWERKS 

Featuring BROODS, Terror Jr, ZHU, Jeremih, Bea Miller, VanJess & Channel Tres

On the heels of her first RIAA Gold certification as a listed artist, Astralwerks artist Kito announces the November 5 release of her new EP, Blossom, and unveils the leadoff track from the seven-song set, Skin & Bones ft. Winona Oak. Lush and luminous, “Skin & Bones” is an infectious, deeply romantic slice of dance-pop. Kito wrote the song with Sarah Aarons (Zedd, Alessia Cara, Maren Morris).

Born and raised in the Nordic forests of Sweden, Winona Oak first came to attention as a writer and featured artist on What So Not’s “Beautiful” and The Chainsmokers’ Gold-certified “Hope.” Her own debut single, “He Don’t Love Me,” was a runaway success, amassing 50 million streams across all platforms to date. Following her recent single “Old Insecurities” and her latest EP SHEwhich features the self-empowerment anthem “With Myself” and the stunning ballad “Piano in the Sky,” Winona Oak is currently at work on her debut album to be released next year.

Bitter, Kito’s first collaboration with FLETCHER, has been certified Gold by the RIAA and has amassed over 88 million combined global streams. She produced and co-wrote FLETCHER’s new single, girls girls girls, a bold reimagining of Katy Perry’s groundbreaking hit “I Kissed a Girl,” and earned acclaim for her remix of MARINA’s “Venus Fly Trap.”

Kito’s recent hits – “Follow” with ZHU and Jeremih, “Recap” with VanJess and Channel Tres, and “Steal My Clothes” ft. Bea Miller – shed light on the Australian-born, Los Angeles-based producer’s approach to futurist pop. All three tracks are included on Blossom, as well as new collaborations with BROODS “Locked On You” and Terror Jr “Tongue Tied.” See below for track listing.

Fans who pre-order the EP will instantly receive “Skin & Bones,” “Steal My Clothes,” “Recap” and “Follow.” Named as the “ultimate summer club record” by Dancing Astronaut, “Follow” has amassed more than 10 million combined global streams. Billboard hailed “Recap” as “deliciously decadent and refreshing.” Praising “Steal My Clothes,” The Honey Pop said, “From the lyrics, to what a feel-good track it is, everything is A+.” 

Blossom Track Listing

  1. Always Been You
  2. Recap (with VanJess & Channel Tres)
  3. Skin & Bones (ft. Winona Oak)
  4. Locked On You (ft. BROODS)
  5. Steal My Clothes (ft. Bea Miller)
  6. Tongue Tied (ft. Terror Jr)
  7. Follow (with ZHU & Jeremih)
Andre De Shields image by Lia Chang for use by 360 Magazine

Andre De Shields – Sarah Siddons Society

ANDRE DE SHIELDS TO RECEIVE SARAH SIDDONS SOCIETY 66th ANNUAL ACTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Tony Award Winner and multi-Tony nominee André De Shields will be honored by the Sarah Siddons Society when he is presented the organization’s 66th Annual Actor of the Year Award at their benefit on October 25 in Chicago.

The 2021 benefit will include an interview between André De Shields and Chicago Midwest Emmy-Award recipient Ed Tracy, congratulatory messages from influential individuals in his life, musical selections from many of his memorable shows performed by some of Chicago’s most talented rising stars under the musical direction of David Fiorello and the induction of the Sarah Siddons Society 2021 Scholarship Recipients. The event is being produced by Board Member and long-time Chicago event producer Denise McGowan Tracy.

It will be filmed at The Edge Theater in Chicago. Proof of vaccine and masks will be required for this intimate, live filming. The event will be streamed on November 28. For more information visit the Society’s website.

“We feel it is especially meaningful that Chicago’s oldest and most prestigious theater award is going to such a deserving and accomplished actor as André De Shields in the city where he made his professional debut and has given stellar performances with so many legendary theater companies over the years.”  Martin Balogh, President, Sarah Siddons Society.

A showstopper at age 75, André De Shields was the triple-crown winner of the 2019 award season, garnering Tony, Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk and Grammy Awards for his universally praised role as Messenger to the Gods, Hermes, in Hadestown. In an unparalleled career spanning more than half a century, De Shields has distinguished himself as an actor, director, philanthropist and educator. His defining theatrical performances include roles in the original Broadway productions of The Full Monty (Tony Award nomination), Play On! (Tony Award nomination), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Emmy Award) and the titular role in The Wiz. Ubuntu!

Since its inception in 1952, the mission of the Society has been to fund scholarships to promising theater arts students at top Chicago area universities including; The Theater Department, Columbia College; The Theatre School at DePaul University; Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University and Northwestern University School of Communications.

Mina Tocalini, 360 Magazine, Fitness

Understanding Physical Limitations

Five Things Non-Disabled People Should Understand About Those With Physical Limitations

By: Julie Morin, Co-Founder, Envol

Chronic illness has continued to grow in the past decades with six in ten Americans living with at least one chronic disease today, according to the CDC.

Having at least one chronic symptom is considered normal in the modern world of today – and let me tell you, that’s a scary realization. Such symptoms can look and feel different for everyone, ranging from mild occasional discomfort to being physically limited in our ability to participate to everyday activities.

Yet non-disabled people dominate the population and culture in the US, which means our understanding of normal is wholly based around the perimeters for non-disabled ideas and activities.

This is something I know all too well. Two weeks after taking ciprofloxacin – a commonly prescribed antibiotic – for a UTI, I was practicing yoga and, out of nowhere, my leg muscles went into painful paralysis. I couldn’t walk or even move my legs anymore. I had to call for help – it was terrifying – and I was rushed to the hospital in the neurology department. All the tests came back negative, and no one knew what was wrong with me. After two weeks, they said it was probably all just in my head and sent me home.

I spent the next four years in a wheelchair, and after multiple misdiagnoses and unsuccessful medical treatments, I turned to holistic healing. I began working with a French naturopathic physician who informed me that my symptoms aligned with fluoroquinolone toxicity, which is currently not recognized as a diagnosis yet. Still, many cases of fluoroquinolone-associated disability are being reported, and doctors continue to prescribe them today despite the FDA advising against it.

Under the guidance of my naturopathic physician, I created a wellness routine that incorporated a healthy, plant-based diet, meditation, therapeutic movement, rest, and gratitude, and I am now 75% healed and can walk short distances again.

Going from a healthy, vibrant young lady to a handicapped 25 years old just by taking a few pills has not been easy. But what was even harder was how people treated me during this time.

And what I learned during this time is knowledge I feel is essential to share with others:

  • Illness isn’t always visible.

It’s always wise to be careful with assumptions and presuming someone is healthy just because they don’t look sick. There is a lot that can be invisible to the eye and coming from a place of empathy when we simply don’t know enough about a situation or a person, is always a good idea.

  • Dare to talk about it.

Avoiding complex topics because they might be awkward or uncomfortable can make a person living with a chronic illness feel even more lonely and unheard. Talk about what they’re going through, the struggles, the hardship, but also the joy and the little things that they feel grateful for.

  • Not having a diagnosis doesn’t mean nothing is wrong.

So many people go mis- or undiagnosed by the medical profession and many assume that it must mean that there is nothing wrong with them and that they should simply resume their life. Yet the daily struggles and limitations are still there, and they can be very real. Continuing to offer your support and trust even when a clear diagnosis isn’t identified is one of the best way you can support someone you love who is going through a difficult time with their health. This type of support can greatly contribute to our recovery.

  • Avoid suggesting that someone is lucky that they can’t work.

Being unable to work isn’t a privilege – it’s a consequence of chronic illness or physical limitations. Rather, helping that person find their mission and a passion in which they can contribute to the world can often shift their perspective and help them boost their self-esteem.

  • People with physical limitations of disabilities are reminded every day of how life is different for them.

Be the person who finds and enhances similarities and makes them feel like they belong to the same group as healthy and non-disabled people. Invite them to parties, include them in group conversations, activities, etc. In the end, our cells listen to every one of our thoughts and so why not see life as everybody else should: full of possibilities, feeling confident, strong, and powerful beings.

And let’s not forget the power of love and positivity and the positive effects they can have on our health & well-being.

Being in a state of love and gratitude is in fact so important that it is a nourishment in the healing app Envol that my partner and I have created after my recovery.

Envol app is a holistic healing tool with a unique health-score tracking concept + algorithm, backed by science and doctors, that combines all the necessary tools to improve health no matter where people start–whether they’re recovering from a chronic illness or need some extra guidance when dealing with stress or anxiety.

I hope that people never stop believing in the incredible powers of their body. We are more powerful than we think. There is pure magic in us, and if we create the right conditions in our life to let that magic express itself, miracles can happen. Our cells respond to each of our thoughts and beliefs – and it starts with changing ‘I can’t’ into ‘I can.’

About The Author

As someone who’s spent years battling chronic illness, Julie Morin, co-founder of Envol, knows how difficult and pricey it can be to get our health back. She started to wonder about what would happen to our bodies should we give them the opportunity to heal from within. Julie explored that question and when she started walking again after 4 years in a wheelchair, Envol was born: an easy-to-use mobile app to guide and empower people to take control of their health and start feeling better.

champion Jalaiah Harmon image for use by 360 magazine

CHAMPION REVERSE WEAVE WEEK

Champion will celebrate its first-ever Reverse Weave Week from October 13 – October 19 to acknowledge the anniversary of the iconic franchise’s patent that was finalized on October 14, 1952.

TikTok Activation

To commemorate the celebration in a big way, Champion is teaming up with TikTok superstar, Jalaiah Harmon, the creator of the famous Renegade TikTok dance, to create a “reverse” version of the viral sensation. Even better, Champion is “reversing time” by ensuring that with this version, Jalaiah gets the credit she deserves from the start – as opposed to what happened when the original version was released last year and took off without her.

Consumer Giveaway

Jalaiah will post the Reverse Renegade dance on her TikTok on October 13, where viewers can check out and learn the dance and try it themselves! Anyone who posts a video doing the Reverse Renegade on TikTok and/or Instagram Reels from 6am PST on October 13 to 11:59pm PST on October 19 and use hashtag #ReverseRenegadeChallenge will have a chance to win just 1 of 52 exclusive, must-have “Reverse Reverse Weave” hoodies. Winners will be chosen at random on October 19 at 11:59pm PST and notified via direct message.

Rules to Enter Consumer Giveaway

  • Follow Champion on TikTok & Instagram
  • Use hashtag #ReverseRenegade
  • Tag @Champion and mention a friend

History of Reverse Weave

  • The history of Reverse Weave begins on the field in the 1930’s. Champion supplied many football teams with Reverse Weave uniforms. The brand listened to the concerns from coaches about shrinkage when washing big batches of athletic wear and decided to stitch athletic gear horizontally instead of vertically to help the uniforms last longer.
  • Initially patented in 1938, the patent for Reverse Weave as we know and love it today was finally finalized on October 14, 1952. In 2017, the Reverse Weave hoodie was included in the MoMA “Is Fashion Modern” exhibit as one of the 111 items that have shaped the history of fashion. And today, you see Reverse Weave on just about every celebrity and consumer over the past couple generations.
  • This is one of the first examples of what Champion’s “Be Your Own Champion” campaign is all about – encouraging consumers (and leading by example) to do things the right way, on and off the court – never cutting corners. Champion Reverse Weave is cut on the cross-grain to reduce shrinkage. Built with rib side panels for ease of movement, this heavyweight icon won’t slow you down.
  • It’s not just a sweatshirt. It’s an heirloom. The Champion Reverse Weave is cut on the cross grain to reduce shrinkage and stand the test of time.
  • Another reason the franchise is so beloved is because of its versatility. Originally, the Reverse Weave sweatshirt was made in solid colors and with a unisex fit. Over the years, it has expanded to include hoodies.

Confront Art Launches SEEINJUSTICE Exhibition

Confront Art—which promotes diversity and education in the arts through collaboration between emerging artists and established organizations—is announcing today its inaugural exhibition SEEINJUSTICE, which will be on display for the public beginning October 1st through October 31st in Union Square. The SEEINJUSTICE series will feature three sculptures by Chris Carnabuci: “FLOYD”, “BREONNA”, and “JOHN LEWIS.”

Confront Art is working with the family of George Floyd and their charity “We Are Floyd”, the family of Breonna Taylor and John Lewis’ foundation for the SEEINJUSTICE series, aiming to raise awareness on racism and provide a safe place of healing and community through art.

The exhibition will take place in Union Square, selected for the location’s storied history as a gathering place within New York City for generations to express collective empowerment and to make their voices heard. As a venue that has historically protected the right to free speech and demonstration, Union Square NYC has long brought together people of all ages, races, nationalities, religions, and orientations in the name of community and discourse.

“We are inspired by the important work that Confront Art is doing to support the cause of “We are Floyd,” said Terrence Floyd, George Floyd’s brother. “We are looking forward to an extensive partnership with them as we bring art and creative resources to communities around the country.”  

“We founded Confront Art to create art that is inclusive, progressive, and sparks something deep within to discover one’s own creativity and causes,” said Lindsay Eshelman, Confront Art Co-founder.” Our mission is to foster art that is an immersive experience and allow our visual representations to push forward a movement of change and unity.”

“Confront Art’s mission is to inspire people to continue to create art during times of sadness and confusion and to share an awareness of empathy and hope for the future,” said, Andrew Cohen, Confront Art Co-founder.

“As a result of the death of George Floyd, there came a global awareness and understanding of the plague of injustice across the world,” said Chris Carnabuci, Artist of the SEEINJUSTICE series. “The exhibit represents this global understanding, and from understanding comes action and from action comes change.”

“We are honored to work alongside Confront Art in bringing Chris Carnabuci’s SEEINJUSTICE installation to Union Square,” said Jennifer Falk, Executive Director of Union Square Partnership. “As a long-standing venue for public demonstrations in pursuit of social change, we are proud of Union Square’s history as a space for New Yorkers and people from all over to congregate in the name of free speech, a legacy that we will always protect and uphold.”

“We are proud to display Confront Art’s inaugural exhibition through our Art in the Parks program,” said NYC Parks Acting Commissioner Margaret Nelson. “Chris Carnabuci’s statues of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and John Lewis highlight the need for social change and build upon Union Square’s long history as a democratic space where individuals gather to call for equality and justice.”

The final sculptures stand at 10-feet tall on top of a base inscribed with dedications from notable hip-hop artists, social figures, and family members. Each statue layers precision- cut wood to craft a detailed and realistic monument of each subject, based on 3-D models by Daniel and Rodman Edwards. 

The exhibition will be on display for one month and available for public view in Union Square in New York City. For more information on Confront Art, visit them here.

About Confront Art 

Confront Art was founded by Andrew Cohen and Lindsay Eshelman in 2020, with the mission to promote diversity and education in the arts by creating collaborative opportunities between emerging artists and established organizations. The collective aims to create productions that foster socially progressive art and merchandise. For more information on Confront Art, visit here.

About We Are Floyd 

WE ARE FLOYD is a 501C3 led by Terrence Floyd, George Floyd’s brother. We Are Floyd supports initiatives to help communities dealing with mental health issues, poverty, police brutality, and social injustice. In the name of George Floyd, We Are Floyd partners with existing community-centric organizations, bringing awareness to issues surrounding underserved communities, highlighting the lack of educational programs, and promoting change and progress. For more information on We Are Floyd, please visit them here.

Sculptor – Chris Carnabuci 

Chris Carnabuci is a New York based artist & sculptor. He has been creating work for commercial accounts and private collectors for the past two decades. In 2016, Carnabuci began incorporating his skill as a CAD designer to create stacked plate sculptures using a CNC Technique. The process slices a 3D model into a set number of layers, precisely cut and stacked to create an artistic rendition of the original model.

By far his most well-known work, “Mariposita” is a massive sculpture of a female figure emerging from a shell. Composed of over 2500 pieces of CNC cut wood, she stands at over 20FT tall. Created in 2019, Mariposita has exhibited at the Toronto Light Festival, and then again, she was commissioned to exhibit at Electric Daisy Carnival in Mexico City. Chris’ work and Mariposita have been featured in publications such as Forbes, Business Insider, Artsy and many others. 

About Union Square Partnership

 For over 45 years, Union Square Partnership has been working to ensure the best possible neighborhood for its residents, businesses, and visitors. As the leading advocate for the Union Square-14th Street community, we work to enhance the neighborhood’s quality-of-life by creating a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable environment. With our vibrant community continuing to evolve and grow, the Union Square Partnership’s role is now more important than ever. We are dedicated to this neighborhood, and work 24/7 to make sure that Union Square remains a phenomenal place to live, work and visit.

#USQArt is an incredible opportunity to bring engaging artwork to one of NYC’s great public spaces. Exhibitions are presented by the Union Square Partnership with NYC Parks’ Art in the Parks program and NYC Department of Transportation’s Art Program in collaboration with selected galleries and artists.

About NYC Parks’ Art in the Parks Program 

For over 50 years, NYC Parks’ Art in the Parks program has brought contemporary public artworks to the city’s parks, making New York City one of the world’s largest open-air galleries. The agency has consistently fostered the creation and installation of temporary public art in parks throughout the five boroughs. Since 1967, NYC Parks has collaborated with arts organizations and artists to produce over 2,000 public artworks by 1,300 notable and emerging artists in over 200 parks. For more information about the program visit them here.

Little Blues at Birch Aquarium

The biggest news in the history of Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego is little … Little Blue Penguins, that is.  The aquarium announced the addition of the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins habitat, which will open in summer 2022. 

Little Blues are the smallest species of penguin — less than 12 inches tall, weighing just 2-3 pounds — and are known for their unique blue color, and their big personalities. Birch Aquarium will be the only aquarium in the Western U.S. to house these gregarious sea birds. 

“We are so very excited to be adding the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins to Birch Aquarium at Scripps. The new facility will allow us to contribute to an international Species Survival Plan and create an interesting new guest experience,” said Executive Director, Harry Helling.  “Little Blue Penguins will be wonderful ambassadors that can help us to engage our community more deeply and further our mission to connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet.” 

Ground-breaking for this exciting project will begin on Sept.  27 with completion expected by spring.  Birch Aquarium will be closed Sept.  27-30 to avoid negatively impacting the guest experience. Beyster Little Blue Penguins will be installed in the Nigella Hillgarth Education Courtyard. 

Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins is named in honor of a $1 million gift from the Beyster Family, who are long-time supporters of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Birch Aquarium. 

“Their graceful swimming and diving abilities and awkwardness on land have endeared these little Southern Australian marine animal ambassadors to the Beyster Family. We are proud to support Birch Aquarium’s mission to shed light on the survival challenges that Little Blue Penguins face along with other seabird species,” said James Beyster. 

In Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins, guests will be immersed in the world of Little Blue Penguins, learning about some of the challenges facing these birds in the wild, and how our future is tied directly to theirs. The 2,900-square-foot exhibit will include  rocky and sandy shore habitat and an 18,000-gallon pool where guests will observe the penguins socializing, interacting, and nest building. The exhibit also includes a small amphitheater for guests to observe birds swimming, and a discovery cave for children to closely observe Little Blue Penguins on land and inside nesting burrows.

“Little Blue Penguins and other seabirds are sentinel species for our ocean’s health and help us understand how we can be better stewards for our planet,” said Jenn Nero Moffatt, Senior Director of Animal Care, Science and Conservation. “Penguins, by their unique nature, are adored by our community and in this way help to serve as great animal ambassadors.  We hope that one look at their awkward waddling, their pint-sized bodies, torpedo swimming and social nature will leave our guests enchanted, and wanting to learn how to aid in conservation efforts.”

Little Blue Penguins are native to the coastal dunes and rocky shores of Southern Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand and are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) collaborative international conservation program called Species Survival Plans (SSP). Each SSP Program coordinates the individual activities of participating member institutions through a variety of species conservation, research, husbandry, management, and educational initiatives

Though penguins are common in zoos and aquariums, only a handful of AZA institutions have Little Blue Penguins. They are Dallas World Aquarium, the Bronx Zoo, Adventure Aquarium, Louisville Zoo, and the Cincinnati Zoo. 

Six Little Blue Penguins from Dallas World Aquarium are currently behind-the-scenes at Birch Aquarium, in an aviary built especially for them. Ten additional birds are expected to arrive from Australian zoos ahead of the opening.

In addition to the naming gift made by the Beyster Family, generous gifts have also been received by Julia R. Brown to name the aquatic animal life support system, Miranda Ko and Jared Cui to name one of the penguins, and a gift from an anonymous donor to name the amphitheater. These gifts also contribute to the Campaign for UC San Diego.

There are still many opportunities for the community to support the Little Blue Penguins habitat including the naming of individual birds, the children’s discovery cave and the VIP Observation and Conservation suite, as well as several others. Those interested in making a gift or learning more, may contact Adeline Duke at amduke@ucsd.edu or (858) 822-5803.

Once open, the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins habitat  will be included in the cost of Birch Aquarium admission. More information here.

About Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Birch Aquarium features the groundbreaking work of Scripps Oceanography and UC San Diego scientists as well as conservation breeding programs, and interactive exhibits. Birch Aquarium’s mission is to connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet, which the aquarium achieves by engaging, hands-on learning opportunities for nearly 500,000 guests as well as more than 50,000 pre-K-12 students each year. Birch Aquarium also offers a variety of virtual events and activities. Visit them here for more information. 

About the Campaign for UC San Diego 
At the University of California San Diego, challenging convention is our most cherished tradition. Through the Campaign for UC San Diego —our university-wide comprehensive fundraising effort concluding in 2022—we are enhancing student support, ensuring student success, transforming our campus, connecting our community, and redefining medicine and health care on a global scale. Together with our philanthropic partners, we will continue our nontraditional path toward revolutionary ideas, unexpected answers, lifesaving discoveries, and planet-changing impact.