Once dismissed as vandalism, graffiti finds its gallery — and the streets, at last, are heard.

In Amsterdam’s industrial north, where cranes once forged the skeletons of ships, another kind of creation now takes form. Within the vast steel cathedral of the NDSM Wharf stands STRAAT — the world’s foremost museum dedicated entirely to street art and graffiti. Here, the bold and the outlawed have found sanctuary. Spray-painted stories that once flickered under moonlight on the sides of trains now stretch across monumental walls, preserved in the same reverence once reserved for Renaissance masters. More than 160 artworks, born on-site from the hands of over 150 artists, rise in color and conviction. STRAAT is not just an exhibition; it is an evolution — a declaration that the language of the streets has matured without losing its voice. In every tag, stencil, and mural, you can still hear the whisper of resistance — but now, it speaks through the echoing halls of history.

Story by Terry Check

Masquerade Magazine journeys to Buenos Aires to experience The Rojo Tango Show, steeped in passion and history. “Born in the heart of Buenos Aires at the turn of the 20th century, tango emerged as a raw, passionate expression of longing, identity, and resilience—a dance of the soul shaped by the city’s immigrant roots and smoky milongas. At Rojo Tango, this emotional heritage comes alive in a setting as rich and dramatic as the music itself. Bathed in red velvet and gold, our El Cabaret transforms into a time capsule of tango’s golden age, where every step, every note, tells the story of Argentina’s most iconic art form.”

Holiday shopping in New York City is an experience like no other — the streets alive with festive lights, storefronts sparkling with luxury, and the air filled with the excitement of discovery. On a crisp December afternoon, I stepped into Bergdorf Goodman, the iconic department store on Fifth Avenue, eager to browse the latest collections. The lobby buzzed with elegantly dressed shoppers, and as I maneuvered through the crowd, I bumped into a vision of beauty.

She stood tall in a long, sequined dress that shimmered under the golden lights. High heels elongated her silhouette, and a diamond necklace sparkled around her neck. Her face was unforgettable: piercing blue eyes framed by impossibly long lashes, a radiant smile, and lips painted a perfect shade of red. It was love at first sight. I stammered with an apology, only to realize — with a mix of awe and embarrassment — that she wasn’t real. She was a mannequin.

The Sagamore Hotel’s groundbreaking art program sets the stage for Miami Art Week 2024 with a thrilling lineup of events. From an extraordinary collaboration with BitBasel to the 23rd Iconic Sagamore Brunch, immerse yourself in unforgettable art, culture, and celebration. Join the Sagamore Hotel and Masquerade Magazine in a “One on One” interview about all the exciting details of official BitBasel’s Miami Art Week programming.

Masquerade:  Can you tell us about the vision behind BitBasel’s Miami Art Week 2024 events at the Sagamore Hotel? What themes or experiences are you hoping to showcase?

THE SHOWS

Story by Terry Check     

Two Italian designers, Gabriele Fiorucci Bucciarelli and Joshua Fenu bring together apparel and footwear creating fashion as artwork.

Story and Photography by Terry Check

Supermodel Iryna Storozhuk

From the bustling streets of New York City to the vibrant alleys of Paris, graffiti art has long been an integral part of urban culture. With its bold colors, intricate designs, and expressive messages, graffiti has captivated the imagination of both artists and onlookers alike. However, in recent years, this underground art form has transcended its street origins to become a prominent influence in the world of fashion design.

Amidst the Anza-Borrego Desert emerging from the earth stands prehistoric creatures and whimsical characters dancing across the horizon

Nestled amidst the arid expanse of California’s Anza-Borrego Desert State Park lies an unexpected treasure trove of artistry and wonder. Here, the barren landscape is punctuated by a collection of awe-inspiring metal sculptures, each one a testament to the imagination and skill of artist Ricardo Breceda. These magnificent creations, scattered throughout the desert terrain, beckon travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and exploration.

In the realm of fashion, where boundaries are constantly pushed and norms shattered, avant-garde design stands as a beacon of innovation. The cosmos, with its vastness and mystique, has become a profound source of inspiration for designers seeking to elevate their creations beyond earthly constraints. This article embarks on a celestial journey through avant-garde fashion, exploring the cosmic influences that have propelled outer space designs to the forefront of sartorial imagination.

Avant-garde fashion, by definition, defies the conventional and challenges established norms. Originating from the art world, this movement found its way into the realm of clothing design in the early 20th century. Designers like Elsa Schiaparelli and Yves Saint Laurent pioneered avant-garde fashion, introducing bold concepts that echoed societal shifts and cultural revolutions.

Italian luxury brand, Zilea, blends elegance with sophisticated nonchalance creating exclusive silk fashions

Story and Photography by Terry Check

Amazing Lego creations by Nathan Sawaya

Story and Photography by Terry Check

Adam Scott Rote, an extraordinary artist talented beyond measure

Story by Terry Check

From the other side, Jillian Ann and Cassidy Haley live life where few travel

Story & Photography by Terry Check

Artwork comes to life In Atlanta

Story and Photography by Terry Check

Van Gogh’s dream world is illuminated for all to experience as his artwork comes alive with musical melodies at Atlanta’s Pullman Yard.

Story by Terry Check

A celebrated piano virtuoso that inspires standing ovations from classic, and now, contemporary music lovers with her distinctive visual flair

Story by Terry Check

Connecting the World’s Most Interesting People

By Terry Check

Evocative, sensual, intense, opulent and distinctive … words describing both the artist and her artwork.

Story and Photography by Terry Check