Latest news with #Monet
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
How global art auctions expose FX fees imbalance
Imagine for a minute that you were the winning bidder last year for Claude Monet's Nymphéas. It sold last year at Sotheby's, New York after a competitive bidding war lasting only 17 minutes. And the price? $65.5m. That is just for starters. One might be forgiven for thinking that the auction house commission for the sale would be paid by the seller. One would of course be wrong. There is the buyer's premium to calculate. In this case, if Sotheby's standard fees applied, that means a 27% buyer's premium for works up to $1m; 22% for the part of the transaction between $1m-$8m and 15% for the balance above $8m. The Monet is now going to set back the buyer almost $76m. And there is more to come. Let us also imagine that the buyer is based in the UK and is working through his or her bank, say one of the traditional big four banks. The bank will typically add to the cost of the Monet by charging an FX fee of at least 2%, probably closer to the 3% to 4% range. Even at the midpoint of the FX fees scale, that adds about another $2.3m to the final cost to the buyer. For the sake of brevity, let us avoid the tricky question of VAT on the buyers premium or VAT on imported works of art and just focus on FX fees. The total cost of the Monet in question, including VAT, is now way over $80m for a UK buyer. A saving on the FX fee is do-able and it is almost akin to negligence if the theoretical winning UK bidder uses a traditional bank and meekly pays a 3%-4% FX fee. It also offers disrupters in the market such as iBanFirst, an outstanding market opportunity to highlight the benefits of its smarter, fairer FX fees structure. Vivek Savani, UK Country Manager at iBanFirst, is on a mission to address the imbalance in the FX market. 'Whether we're talking about high-net-worth individuals or not, the foreign exchange imbalance is an unnecessary premium that really doesn't represent smart financial management. It also affects businesses. And I think when we look at it, there are exorbitant fees and premiums built into FX pricing and services that many banks offer. 'Over 70% of businesses are still using their bank. If we extrapolate that to the private market for individuals, it's probably vastly more than 70% moving up towards 80% and 90% of individuals that have currency transfers and requirements, that are using their bank. And it's there that these fees really start to kick in. Typically, they may charge between 2% to 4% and ultimately, that's a really, really high price to pay for, ultimately what is quite a straightforward transaction. And they offer, essentially an execution only service. They seldom offer the quite bespoke service that many of these individuals and businesses require. So yeah, I'd say it's quite a vast problem.' To suggest that the global art market is struggling, as some have claimed, might be stretching it a little. If you want a quick but comprehensive summary of the sector, the annual Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report 2025 by Arts Economics is a good starting point. It reveals that the global art market recorded an estimated $57.5bn in sales in 2024. The number of transactions grew 3% year-on-year, demonstrating continued interest from collectors worldwide. On the other hand, that total for the year of $57.5bn is down by 12% y-o-y. The US and UK continue to lead the way with 43% and 18% respectively of global sales by value. But their 2024 sales of $24.8bn and $10.4bn are down by 9% and 5% respectively. Given the decline in the total value of art sales, Savani argues that it is time for the art world to start paying closer attention to FX and says this could support the entire ecosystem. It would encourage higher bids for auction houses/dealers, support a better seller experience and increasing buyer strength. And he highlights the support iBanFirst provides in the global art market and says that its business model, built around close relationships, mirrors the art world. Specifically, iBanFirst can help buyers and sellers better track payments, meaning that they are better equipped when it comes to buying and selling based on the real-time cost of currency. 'Purchasing art is a sizable investment for many people, and those fees add to the overall cost of that transaction. They're quite opaque. So ultimately, I would argue that this really deters many people from potentially participating in an overseas auction. It erodes confidence and penalises the sellers potentially from having a wider audience to bid on those particular pieces of art. Having overall transparency would really encourage people to participate and help the sellers and help the buyers at the same time, as well as the intermediaries, the brokers and the auction houses that are a central part of that particular ecosystem.' Savani says that there has been a rise in levels of interest in working with FX specialists instead of banks for such international transfers and in the specialist service that bespoke disruptors can offer. But he adds: 'It's not moving at as quick a pace as one would hope. From the consumer perspective, we want to work with more individuals, more dealers, more brokers, to try and bridge that gap. It is improving. There's still a lot of work to be done, and we hope that we can get the message out there that there is an alternative to the bank. There are better levels of service, of convenience, of information, of assistance that are out there.' Savani summarises the iBanFirst proposition as offering a combination of technology mixed with the human touch. 'We have a really nice piece of technology. Many clients find the platform really convenient, very easy to use, and very different to what a banking system would offer them. We also offer that human touch, so someone that is there to speak to the client from the beginning of the transaction right until the end. And this is something that is really missing from a banking solution and many of our competitors. 'That is, a specialised individual that can provide guidance in terms of setting up the transaction, even more insight and a real, healthy overview of what's happening in the market at any particular time. Ultimately, we hold the hand of the client from the beginning until the end. And that is a very important feature, I would say, when it comes to these high value transactions. They're not small amounts of money, and it's a comfort for clients to know there is someone at the end of a phone that will help them with any situation, whether it's funds, whether it's the payment, whether it's making the transaction, the FX piece.' Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Belgium, iBanFirst is regulated as a payment institution, passported throughout the EU and is a serious competitor to the traditional bank offering for SMBs. Its core banking platform offers fast and secure multicurrency transactions and it wins on cost versus banks, thanks to no setup fee, no tiered monthly subscription costs and no transfer fees. Savani says that what the client sees is exactly what the client pays. The iBanFirst pricing structure is designed with scaling international businesses in mind. iBanFirst gives a standard exchange rate spread that applies across all of a client's transactions. This means they can predict their costs even as payment values increase, rather than watching fees eat away at profits. Its offering best suits established small and medium businesses that are outgrowing entry level payment providers and that need advanced tools for things like FX risk management. It will suit importers and exporters with international supply chains seeking the tools and expertise to manage complex payments, that do not want fees eating into their margins. And it suits wholesalers who rely on FX risk management tools that crave detailed payment tracking and hands on responsive support. What's more, iBanFirst clients are able to track international payments every step of the way, with detailed, timestamped updates and tracking links that clients can share with their partners and suppliers. This is, however, a competitive market, and iBanFirst is competing with some serious players. For example, Wise Business can claim that it keeps things simple, both in terms of pricing and functionality. It targets both individual consumers and businesses, especially those looking for a cost-effective solution. On the other hand, once you are regularly moving over, say, €100,000 euros annually, across borders, iBanFirst would argue that Wise's per transaction fees soon start adding up. And if a business is growing, foreign currency risks will become more of a concern. Wise doesn't offer the kind of FX risk management tools or dedicated support that iBanFirst offers to protect margins from exchange rate swings. Another competitor is Airwallex, a cross-border payment provider that offers multi-currency accounts. Airwallex is a payment gateway allowing e-commerce businesses to collect online payments, and it offers virtual and physical cards for expense management. On the other hand, it's a more complex platform, and its features are plan dependent, that may require a steep learning curve for some users. And iBanFirst might argue that the Airwallex pricing structure is not the most SMB friendly. Another competitor is Payoneer, which specialises in facilitating payments to and from freelancers, contractors and online sellers. But with a split focus across multiple audiences, freelancers, businesses and marketplaces, Payoneer, arguably isn't so focused on developing solutions that meet the specific needs of SMBs. And then there is Ebury. Ebury offers forward contracts and other FX hedging tools and offers mass payment capabilities for handling multiple international transactions. However, its complex tailored pricing structure can make it harder for businesses to predict costs or compare Ebury to other providers. In addition, iBanFirst may argue that the Ebury platform is not so user friendly, making it harder to integrate into a modern tech stack. Two other competitors are Convera and Revolut. Convera does suit large businesses with more complex FX needs across multiple countries, but some SMBs may find the Convera platform overwhelming and potentially more expensive than alternatives like Wise or iBanFirst. And finally, there is Revolut. It features a tiered monthly subscription model and each plan comes with a monthly allowance for currency exchanges at the interbank rate. Revolut business does work well for companies that want a single platform to handle most of their financial needs. So, it does have a lot to offer in terms of functionality, but iBanFirst could argue it's not a specialised tool for a specific business type, because it tries to cater to vastly different audiences. Accordingly, some clients may find themselves paying for features that are not relevant to their business needs. And Savani can argue that if human support is a must have, iBanFirst can win against any of what is a very competitive peer group. "How global art auctions expose FX fees imbalance" was originally created and published by Retail Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Tokyo Weekender
2 days ago
- Tokyo Weekender
Day Trips From Tokyo for Every Type of Traveler
Whether you're a longtime resident of Tokyo or just visiting, spending all your time in the city can be draining; sometimes, you need a change of pace, an escape from packed subway cars and busy sidewalks. But trying to pin down a day-trip destination can be an overwhelming task in itself — Tokyo is surrounded by a myriad of charming towns to explore, each offering a long list of activities and culinary experiences. That's why we've compiled a guide to day-trip options around Tokyo to match each and every interest. Read on for day-trip ideas tailored to history buffs, art lovers, foodies and more. List of Contents: For the Nature Lover For The Art Lover For the Foodie For the History Buff For Families Related Posts For the Nature Lover Okutama Situated in the mountainous western reaches of Tokyo, Okutama is the perfect escape for nature lovers. It has lush forests, deep river valleys and pristine lakes — all part of the vast Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park. Hikers of all levels can embark on picturesque treks, admiring rugged mountain ranges and dramatic waterfalls along the way. If you're looking for a more relaxed day in nature, head to Lake Okutama, a man-made reservoir with glittering blue waters. The lake is especially enchanting in the fall and spring, framed by vibrant foliage and pale blossoms. Cycling around the lake is also a popular activity. Travel time: About 1 hour, 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi Prefecture) Known for its iconic view of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi — Kawaguchiko in Japanese — is a quintessential day trip for nature enthusiasts. A key spot for photographers is Oishi Park, which features an exquisite view of Mount Fuji framed by various seasonal wonders: lavender fields in June, red kochia bushes in October and more. The Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway is another popular experience, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, the lake and surrounding foliage as it whisks riders to an observation deck at an altitude of 1,075 meters. Those looking to extend their stay in the area will find a variety of hot spring hotels, some of which boast beautiful views of Fuji. Glamping, which has recently become popular with locals, is another option. Travel time: Around 2 hours by train or bus from Shinjuku hakone open-air museum For The Art Lover Hakone Hakone is famous for its beautiful natural scenery and hot springs, but it's also an amazing day-trip destination for art lovers. A highlight is the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which integrates large-scale sculptures by renowned international and Japanese artists into expansive, verdant landscapes. The Pola Museum of Art is another key site; steeped in sunlight and greenery, the thoughtfully designed subterranean structure houses an extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century paintings by artists like Monet, Renoir, Kandinsky and Van Gogh. For an impressive collection of Japanese, Chinese and Korean ceramics and paintings, head to the Okada Museum of Art. Travel time: About 80 minutes by limited express from Shinjuku hiroshi senju museum, courtesy of Daici Ano hiroshi senju museum, courtesy of Nacása & Partners Inc. Karuizawa Brimming with lush forests and atmospheric streets, Karuizawa has long been a popular getaway for Tokoyites. The area is also dotted with numerous museums, galleries and gorgeous cafés, making it an ideal destination for aesthetes and art lovers. The Hiroshi Senju Museum, an architectural marvel by Ryue Nishizawa, houses a large collection of breathtaking waterfall paintings by Senju. Meanwhile, the Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art showcases works by some of Japan's most acclaimed artists, like Yayoi Kusama, Yoshimoto Nara and Takashi Murakami. The Sezon Museum of Contemporary Art is another must-see; its collection comprises American abstract expressionist pieces, postwar Japanese contemporary art and prewar European art. Travel time: About 1 hour–1 hour, 20 minutes via shinkansen from Tokyo yokohama chinatown For the Foodie Yokohama Yokohama, which was crowned 'most desired residential area' in 2024 , is one of the most easily accessible day-trip destinations from central Tokyo. While the city has something for everyone — from romantic date spots to family-friendly parks — it is undeniably a great destination for foodies. Yokohama is home to Japan's largest and most bustling Chinatown, which features an endless array of street food, dim sum, noodles and more. As a port city, Yokohama also offers a great selection of sushi and sashimi, and stylish cafés with bay views. The Cup Noodles Museum is another must for foodies — you can make your very own cup of noodles to take home as a souvenir. Travel time: About 30-45 minutes by train from central Tokyo heiwa-dori Atami Atami is a coastal hot spring resort town in Shizuoka Prefecture known for its healing waters and delicious seafood. Visitors can indulge in pristine sushi and sashimi, freshly caught grilled fish, kaisendon (seafood bowl) and various shellfish at restaurants lining the waterfront. The Heiwa-dori and Nakamise shopping streets are packed with local delicacies and street food options like onsen manju : steamed buns with sweet azuki bean paste. While in Atami, make sure to check out Atami Castle — inspired by ancient castles but dating to just 1959 — for spectacular ocean views. Travel time: About 40 minutes from Tokyo Station by shinkansen or 2 hours by train from Shinjuku toshogu shrine For the History Buff Nikko As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nikko is home to stunning shrines surrounded by natural landscapes. It served as a vital center for Shugendo, a form of syncretic mountain worship that blends elements of Shintoism and Buddhism with ascetic practices, and gained immense historical significance as the location of Toshogu Shrine, the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. You can admire the shrine's vibrant colors, towering five-story pagoda and the 17th-century carving of the Three Wise Monkeys illustrating the 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil' maxim. Within walking distance of Toshogu Shrine are Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple, which are also part of the Shrines and Temples of Nikko UNESCO World Heritage Site. The former is an eighth-century treasure beneath a lush mountain, while the latter, also dating to the eighth century, is an ornate, gilded structure with three imposing Buddha statues. Travel time: About 2 hours via limited express from Shinjuku Kotoku-in Temple shichirigahama beach Kamakura Kamakura, one of the most popular day-trip destinations for Tokyo dwellers, sees significant crowds on most weekends — and for good reason. Not only does it offer scenic beaches, surfing and several hiking trails, it also has an incredible constellation of temples and shrines. This is largely due to its place in history as the seat of the Kamakura shogunate (1185–1333), making it Japan's first feudal capital. Its historical significance and many religious sites have led to its nickname, the 'Kyoto of the east.' Key sites include Kotoku-in Temple, home of the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu); the expansive Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine; Hokokuji Temple and its beautiful bamboo forest; and the Zen temples of Kencho-ji and Engaku-ji in the Kita-Kamakura neighborhood. Hasedera Temple, known for its stunning gardens, panoramic ocean view and towering Kannon statue, is another must-visit location. Prefer to avoid the crowds? Kamakura's many smaller temples and shrines offer plenty to look at with far fewer fellow tourists competing for photo ops. Travel time: About 1 hour by train from Shinjuku Kawagoe Known affectionately as 'Little Edo' (Koedo), Kawagoe is filled with charming historic streets and traditional food offerings. Check out the iconic Toki no Kane (Bell of Time) and Kurazukuri Street, which is lined with merchant warehouses that now house shops and restaurants. For history buffs, Kita-in Temple is a must; it's home to multiple National Important Cultural Properties and the only remaining structures from the original Edo Castle, including what is believed to be the birthplace and living quarters of the third Tokugawa shogun, Iemitsu. The 500 Statues of Rakan — Buddha's most enlightened disciples — are also a breathtaking sight. Travel time: About 1 hour via limited express from Shinjuku For Families Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea As the most globally known theme park in Japan, Tokyo Disney Resort needs no introduction. Tokyo Disneyland is modeled after the original Disneyland in California and Magic Kingdom in Florida, and features familiar characters and timeless attractions across seven themed lands. It is perhaps the more family-friendly park of the two, with many fun rides that are perfect for kids. Tokyo DisneySea is unique to Japan, and as its name suggests, it revolves around a nautical theme. It has eight ports of call with distinct atmospheres, plus thrilling water-based rides. Travel time: About 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku iwaya caves Enoshima Located just off the coast of Fujisawa in Kanagawa Prefecture, Enoshima is a charming island with a laid-back atmosphere. The mainland beaches (located on either side of the bridge leading to the island) are picturesque and perfect for water play, with the semi-enclosed Katase Higashihama side the more child-friendly of the beaches. Besides beachside relaxation, Enoshima and area offer a number of fun activities for families. On the island itself, you can take in views of the coast and, on clear days, Mount Fuji, from the Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse. The island is also home to Enoshima Shrine and the lovely Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden. Kids might also enjoy exploring the mysterious Iwaya Caves, carved by erosion over thousands of years. On the mainland, you'll find the Enoshima Aquarium, known far and wide for its incredible jellyfish displays. Travel time: About 1 hour, 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Related Posts 7 Mountain Day Trips from Tokyo for Nature Lovers 5 Best Day Trips from Tokyo by Train Day Trips From Tokyo: What to Eat, See and Do in Zushi
Tom's Guide
14-06-2025
- Tom's Guide
I just broke my iPhone — here's what I learned about the durability of today's phones
My iPhone 12 has served me ably for more years than I can count without pausing to think about. It's been there on trips, helping me snap photos, and it's gotten me from point A to point with trusty navigation tips. It's also tested innumerable software updates and features, without complaint or incident. And the other day, I smashed it beyond repair. I was out for one of my evening walks to get my steps in — yes, the Fitness app on my iPhone 12 also encourages me to stay active — and I reached for my phone to start a new podcast to accompany me for the rest of my journey. But while taking the iPhone out of my pocket, it slipped from my hands and took a plunge to the concrete below, bouncing on the sidewalk and then skidding to a stop a few feet away. You can see the after-effects in the photo at the top of this article. My iPhone 12 landed flush on the main camera, cracking the lens for good. The phone is still perfectly functional, but if I want to take a photo with the camera, the end result looks like a Monet painting. Don't feel sorry for me. I got a lot of use out of the iPhone 12. Apple first released that particular model nearly five years ago, and while I haven't been using the iPhone 12 since Day 1, it's been my go-to model for at least three years, maybe four. An upgrade was in the cards anyhow, and my clumsiness merely forced the issue. So I'm not looking for any sympathy. Rather, I'm sharing this story because I think it reveals a couple of important things about today's smartphones and making sure they last as long as possible. When it comes to dropping phones, the incident that finally did in my iPhone 12 wasn't exactly my first rodeo. I would estimate that, conservatively, I've probably dropped that phone once a week for the past three years. Sometimes, it would fall harmless on cushions or padded surfaces. But otherwise — hardwood floors, linoleum, bathroom tiles — this phone has come into contact with it at all, usually at less-than-ideal acceleration. For heaven's sake, the iPhone 12 that finally succumbed to my ham-fisted handling is the same one that wound up at the bottom of the Russian River when I capsized a canoe. And that only knocked it out of commission for the time it took me to expel water from its charging port. Through all that mishandling, the cracked lens from its most recent fall is the only significant damage my iPhone 12 ever suffered. Yes, there were cosmetic scuffs and scrapes, mostly to the phone's frame, but this Apple device definitely took a licking and kept on ticking. And that's by design. The iPhone 12 introduced Apple's Ceramic Shield, a tougher material designed for better drop protection. Mission accomplished, I can safely confirm. And the iPhone 12's IP68 water resistance rating has kept my phone safe from dunks in the water, whether it's the pool at my gym or the aforementioned ravages of the Russian River. More encouraging, if your phone is more recent mine, Apple has only improved durability. The latest iPhone 16 models offer a newer generation of Ceramic Shield for even greater durability. And if you spring for one of the Pro versions, you get a titanium frame that's stronger yet lighter than the typical aluminum materials used in phones. Despite all that, I think you still should get a case for your phone — at least if you want it to last for a very long time. My iPhone 12 was naked as a jaybird when I let it slip from my hands, and I think it's a safe bet that had it been in case, it might have come away from this latest tumble unscathed. Don't be like me — get a case to keep your iPhone safe. • Best iPhone 16 cases• Best iPhone 16 Plus cases• Best iPhone 16 Pro cases• Best iPhone 16 Pro Max cases That's because even the thinnest, low-profile cases offer key protection for the two most vulnerable areas of your phone — the screen and camera array. Any phone case worth its salt has raised edges around those areas, aimed at preventing them from coming into contact with unforgiving surfaces. Throw in even a modicum of drop-protection — Tom's Guide recommends you look for cases that offer at least 4 feet — and there's a good chance that those inevitable accidents won't result in catastrophic damage. Put it this way: if I had been keeping my iPhone 12 in a case on that fateful walk, I'd have the option of upgrading to a new device whenever I wanted instead of having to get a new phone now. With the iPhone 17 launch still a few months away, that extra time might have come in handy. So celebrate the fact that the phone in your hands — whether built by Apple or someone else — is probably a lot more durable than a device you might have owned a few years back. And that's great news if you're one of the growing number of people who try to make their phones last as long as possible. Just make sure you keep a case handy for those late-night walks.
Buzz Feed
12-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
27 Pieces Of Home Decor So Beautiful, Your Place Will Become The Inspo For Your Friends' Pinterest Boards
A set of colorful checkered hand towels because even though you love your all-white kitchen aesthetic, a little pop of color never hurts. These look great, feel super plush, and are super absorbent. A Baroque mirror — the mirror mirror on the wall that adds a touch of elegance and opens up a room. You can place it in your living room or entryway and get ready to feel like the fairest of them all whenever you check your look before heading out the door. A wooden beaded garland that will add a little spice to your coffee table or that vase you thrifted at Goodwill. It's simple yet chic, making it the perfect accent piece to add some boho vibes to your space. A chunky knit chenille throw blanket to add a bit of texture to your living space. It doesn't shed, is machine washable, and is 100% handmade. It's time to retire that old, ratty blanket because this throw is so cute, and you'll even love it when you're not snuggling up in it. And, a quilted chenille floor pillow perfect if you're looking for a plush place to sit or just a way to make your seating options a little bit more cozy looking. Not only do humans like it, but one reviewer's cat loves it too! A peel-and-stick wallpaper to spruce up that outdated tile or those weirdly painted walls. This is renter-friendly and makes it look like you put a LOT more effort into decorating than you really did. A splurge-worthy, hand-painted MacKenzie-Childs enamel tea kettle that will earn its spot as your pride and joy in your kitchen because who wouldn't want a cup o' tea after looking at this beautiful and functional appliance? An asymmetrical wood mirror to add some *character* to your plain guest bathroom or over your chest of drawers. Who knew mirrors could be such a statement piece? A Flowerbar that really sets the bar high for any other floral decor in your home. It's made from all-natural materials and will add a nice boho feel above your mantle or in your entryway. An LED floor lamp, which will definitely be a conversation starter because of how futuristic it looks. I mean we're in 2025, but this looks like it's straight from the Year 3000. Plus, it's dimmable, so you can switch from a bright influencer ring light to a soft glow when it's time to unwind. A floral Cuisinart Caskata set — not only does it have a beautiful unique pattern on the knife block... take a closer look to see the floral engravings on the actual knives! Small, fun things like this are what truly make a kitchen a "Pinterest-worthy kitchen!" A cloud coffee table that's just the right balance of being minimalist without giving up eye-catching decor for your friends to "ooh" and "ahh" at. If your head was in the clouds thinking about all the ways you can decorate a living room, look no further! A set of Monet posters to make your house feel like a mini museum with these charming nature scenes. Who needs MoMA when you've got it at your HoME-ah. A decorative rainbow window film perfect for those who want a little privacy, thank you very much, but also love feeling like their home is an enchanted getaway. Reviewers like how easy it is to install and how pretty it looks when the sun shines through juuust right. A tufted, boho chic duvet set that will make you want to keep your bedroom doors wide open when your friends and family come over. When they pass your room on their way to the bathroom, they won't be able to help but notice this gorgeous bedding. An artificial olive tree because you've got an eye for crafting a beautiful space... but a green thumb to keep real plants alive? Not so much. It'll add some greenery to the space without you worrying about when it will die. This reviewer even mentions that people ask if it's a real tree! A 100% jute rug — it's giving rustic farmhouse and coastal beach house, whatever is more your vibe. Its natural texture will make your room so much more inviting and it also doesn't hurt that it's pretty durable, too. A vintage-inspired washable area rug if you happen to get a little messy in the kitchen or have a little too much fun when your besties come over for wine night. Not only is it gorgeous, but you'll be amazed at how it looks like new after a quick toss in the laundry! A beautiful framed canvas painting so you can turn any room into an art gallery. Whether your vibe is still-life fruits, boho florals, or an abstract piece, you'll surely find something that suits your home. A mushroom table lamp to really lean into your mid-century modern aesthetic. It'll make your home look so snazzy and it definitely puts the FUN in funky home decor if that's your style. A handmade moon phase garland your guests will be ~over the moon~ for because this shows you know just how to decorate without going overboard. Whether it's above your couch, bed, or fireplace, this will be the ~star~ of your wall decor. A marvelous yarn tapestry for those who don't want to deal with configuring several art pieces on that large blank wall. It's super eye-catching and sure to make any guest reach for their phone to do a quick Google search so they can get one for themselves. Some velvet pillow covers to instantly add a moody vibe to any room. These oh-so-soft covers will make your sofa look like a place of royalty, so go ahead and take a nap because it's tough being a stellar decorator! A dimmable candle warmer, which adds an antique yet modern look to your desk or nightstand. It comes with not one but two halogen light bulbs, so you don't have to go out and find the right light bulb for this cozy decorative piece. As Kacey Musgraves once said, I'm alright with a slow burrrrnnnnn. A set of geode bookends to truly ~rock~ your bookshelf's world and add some pizzazz next to your favorite reads. Some reviewers say they use these as paperweights, too! A negative space vase because you're all about the minimalist look that will spark major conversations when your guests come over. No need for a big bouquet when a couple of stems in this beauty will do. Or, a darling strawberry vase that is just berry, berry cute. You can fill it with flowers, a leafy green houseplant, or kitchen tools!
Axios
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Local artist's sculptures channel earth, air, fire, water and the human soul
Local artist Nivek Monet collected eight old, metal vises and forged sculptures over six years for an elemental solo exhibition that invites viewers to look deep within. The big picture: Step into Norwest Gallery of Art in Grandmont Rosedale and land in an immersive landscape, with four sections color-coded using lighting: water, fire, earth and air. A central sculptural piece created from metal and mirrors, "Spectrum of the Soul," ties to all four of the elements. The introspective exhibition, which delves into the human soul, also includes paintings, a painted wall and a slideshow of sketches. What they're saying: "The pieces being developed were based off of shop table vises that you hold things in while you're fabricating or constructing stuff, and from that I just developed the 'vices and/or virtues' body of work," Monet tells Axios. Monet, also a welding teacher, used scrap metal he collected from classes. He got the vises for the installation when he worked at Detroit's Randolph Career Technical Center — they were going to be tossed out. Between the lines: Monet wants viewers to be able to relate to his work, he says. "I think the best way to do that is to just be true to me and my process," he adds. "I use the artwork as sort of a therapy. So to create these pieces, I'm dealing with different elements of self, whether it's painting, welding, wood carving." If you go: The exhibition, " Spectrum of the Self," is open now through June 28 on a donation basis. Monet will give an artist's talk on Saturday from 2-4pm. RSVP for free.
