Entertainment

Riga, Latvia – A captivating exhibition showcasing the evolution of French design and craftsmanship, from the elegance of Art Deco to contemporary creations, has opened at the Decorative Arts and Design Museum. “Gobelins Colors: Modern Tapestries from the Mobilier National Collection, France” presents a unique opportunity to view pieces rarely seen outside of France, alongside a private collection of Daum Art Deco vases.

The exhibition builds upon a successful collaboration initiated in 2018 with the French Mobilier national (MN), the National Furniture Repository, coinciding with the 6th Riga International Triennial of Textile and Fibre Art. This ongoing partnership has fostered a valuable exchange of professional expertise, culminating in this new project that offers Latvian audiences a glimpse into the rich collection, highlighting the collaborative work of designers and artisans.

Since January 1, 2025, all significant manufacturing workshops have been consolidated under the National Manufactures, Sèvres and National Furniture Repository (Manufactures nationales, Sèvres &amp. Mobilier national). This state-administered institution, under the purview of the French Ministry of Culture, encompasses the Gobelins Tapestry Manufactory and Museum in Paris, the Beauvais Manufactory, the Sèvres Porcelain Manufactory and Museum, and other specialized workshops. With a history of supporting art and craftsmanship dating back to the 17th century, the organization’s mission is to preserve unique collections, restore them, and pass on artisanal skills and knowledge to future generations. It serves as a vital cultural heritage site and a key player in the development of contemporary decorative arts and design in France.

The combined decorative arts and crafts center produces and restores tens of thousands of pieces of furniture and objects for the decoration of public buildings in France and abroad. More than 340 employees are dedicated to maintaining and practicing the institution’s high level of expertise. The Research and Creation Workshop (ARC – Atelier de Recherche et de Création) promotes innovation in contemporary French design. Seven restoration workshops are divided into various specialties – wood, metal, and textiles. Mobilier national is committed to preserving and promoting cultural heritage while remaining firmly focused on the future to foster artistic creation and the vitality of modern design.

The Rise of Art Deco and French Design Innovation

In 1925, the French government launched the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris, aiming to showcase and celebrate French contemporary design. This innovative exhibition spurred the emergence of the Art Deco style worldwide, significantly influencing 20th-century design. Characterized by bold, symmetrical patterns, clean lines, and streamlined aerodynamic designs, Art Deco profoundly impacted architecture, furniture, and fashion, and continues to inspire today. Visitors to the Riga exhibition will be able to experience this influence firsthand, appreciating the exquisite selection of Daum Art Deco vases from the Esterkin family’s private collection.

Daum, a crystal studio located in Nancy, France, was founded in 1878 by Jean Daum (1825–1885), with his sons Auguste Daum (1853–1909) and Antonin Daum (1864–1931) overseeing its growth. The studio quickly became one of France’s most prominent glassmakers, even during the Art Nouveau period. Daum glassworks received a Grand Prix medal at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris. The company competed with Gallé glass, and after Émile Gallé’s death in 1904, Daum became the leader in decorative glass in France, developing an original style during the Art Deco period.

Leonīds Esterkins acquired his first Daum Art Deco vase with a geometric pattern with little initial knowledge of the company’s rich history. This sparked a deeper investigation and passion, culminating in a remarkable private collection of the finest and most valuable Daum Art Deco glass. Esterkins is pleased to share his enthusiasm, introducing the Latvian public to an exceptional selection of pieces from his collection.

A Diverse Collection of French Masters

The exhibition at the Decorative Arts and Design Museum presents historically significant examples of design and craftsmanship spanning from the Art Deco period to the present day. The collection features works by renowned artists such as Leonetto Cappiello (1875–1942), Raoul Dufy (1877–1953), Jean Lurçat (1892–1966), Sonia Delaunay (1885–1979), Victor Vasarely (1906–1997), Sylvain Dubuisson (1946), and Philippe Starck (1949), among other notable French designers, artists, and architects.

The visual concept for the exhibition was created by internationally acclaimed Latvian designer Artūrs Analts, who aimed to emphasize the unique artistic quality and artisanal mastery of each exhibit.

Alongside the exhibition, a comprehensive program of accompanying events – including lectures, discussions about the traditions and evolution of the private collection in the 21st century, creative workshops, and panel discussions – will be offered to foster greater public understanding of the design industry and craftsmanship, as well as their development prospects.

The exhibition is organized in collaboration with long-standing partners of the Latvian National Museum of Art – the French Institute in Latvia and the French Embassy in Latvia. The museum expresses its gratitude for the support and recognition of the project’s importance from the State Culture Capital Foundation, Rietumu Bank, and the Future Support Foundation.

As the exhibition highlights the enduring legacy of French design, it also points to the ongoing evolution of craftsmanship and innovation. The continued collaboration between the Mobilier national and Latvian institutions promises further opportunities to explore and celebrate the intersection of art, design, and cultural heritage.

Share your thoughts and impressions of the exhibition in the comments below!

In a beauty market saturated with product launches, finding effective solutions for common skin concerns can feel overwhelming. But a fresh toner is gaining attention for its natural formulation and promising results in tackling hyperpigmentation – a skin condition that affects millions. Mila Eve Essentials Flawless Glow Toner, created by Monique Samuels of The Real Housewives of Potomac, is being lauded as a gentle yet powerful alternative to costly in-office treatments and harsh chemical exfoliants.

Hyperpigmentation, characterized by dark spots and uneven skin tone, can significantly impact self-confidence. While treatments like retinols, AHAs, and BHAs are often recommended, their cost and potential for irritation can be prohibitive for many. Mila Eve Essentials aims to bridge that gap, offering a made-to-order formula designed to address uneven skin tone and promote a radiant complexion. The growing interest in natural skincare solutions is driving demand for products like this, offering consumers a potentially effective and affordable option.

The Formulation: A Blend of Natural Ingredients

Samuels developed the Flawless Glow Toner with a focus on natural skin healing. The formula features a blend of plant-derived ingredients specifically chosen for their beneficial properties. Orange and rosemary are included to help fade dark spots, while lemongrass and bergamot work to control acne. A soothing combination of fermented rice water, cedarwood, and tea tree oil aims to relieve eczema breakouts. This carefully curated ingredient list sets it apart from some harsher, chemically-laden alternatives.

One user reported that applying the toner felt like “a refreshing glass of water for my skin,” noting its quick absorption and immediate hydration. After consistent use for four weeks – applied both morning and night – the user observed a visible lightening of dark marks on their chin and an overall improvement in skin luminosity. This personal experience highlights the potential benefits of the toner’s natural formulation.

Addressing Concerns About Natural Toners

Historically, plant-derived toners have sometimes been dismissed as ineffective or irritating. However, the Mila Eve Essentials Flawless Glow Toner appears to defy this expectation. Instead of causing irritation, the formula reportedly nourished the skin, revived complexions, and even helped manage hormonal acne. This suggests that a carefully balanced blend of gentle, yet targeted, ingredients can deliver noticeable results without compromising skin health. The success of this toner underscores the growing demand for effective, all-natural skincare options.

What’s Next for Mila Eve Essentials?

The positive reception of the Flawless Glow Toner demonstrates a clear consumer appetite for effective, natural skincare solutions. As more individuals seek alternatives to traditional treatments, brands like Mila Eve Essentials are poised to capitalize on this growing trend. The company’s continued focus on ingredient quality and formulation innovation will likely be key to its future success. It remains to be seen how the brand will expand its product line and reach a wider audience, but the initial response suggests a promising future.

Have you tried natural toners for hyperpigmentation? Share your experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with anyone seeking a gentle yet effective skincare solution!

A new era of cinematic history is unfolding, one pixel at a time. Cinema Theater Tycoon, a top-down management game immersing players in over a century of moviegoing, has launched its demo on Steam. Developed by a two-person team, the game allows players to build and operate their own cinema, starting in 1906 and extending through 2023, with the full release slated for later this year.

The appeal lies in its detailed simulation of the evolving world of cinema. From the fragile film prints and live piano accompaniments of the silent era to the technological advancements of modern multiplexes, Cinema Theater Tycoon promises a deep dive into the business and cultural impact of the seventh art. Players aren’t just managing a business; they’re curating an experience, shaping a cultural hub within their virtual community.

The currently available demo focuses on the formative years of cinema, spanning 1906 to 1914. This initial slice of gameplay allows players to experience the challenges and opportunities of establishing a theater during the dawn of the industry. According to the Steam page, players can spend over two hours experimenting with different strategies, whether maximizing profits or creating a uniquely inviting atmosphere.

Cinema Theater Tycoon isn’t simply about balancing the books. The game emphasizes player freedom, allowing for a personalized experience. Players can build and customize their cinema, schedule screenings, manage staff and optimize revenue – all while striving to create a venue that reflects their vision. The developers have infused the game with a “cozy soul,” featuring charming pixel art characters whose reactions and needs directly impact the player’s management decisions.

Building a Cinematic Empire, One Pixel at a Time

The demo provides a hands-on experience with the core mechanics of the game. Players can build and customize their cinema, carefully designing the layout and aesthetics to attract audiences. Scheduling screenings is another key element, requiring players to consider film popularity and audience preferences. Managing staff and services, from ticket takers to concession stand workers, is crucial for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for patrons. The goal is to optimize revenue while creating a space that reflects a personal vision.

But Cinema Theater Tycoon extends far beyond the demo period. The full game will allow players to witness the evolution of cinematic technologies – from silent film and the introduction of sound to the advent of color, widescreen formats like Scope, and immersive technologies like IMAX and Dolby sound systems. Players will similarly navigate shifting audience expectations and major cinematic movements, adapting their theaters to remain relevant and profitable.

The ambition of the project is significant. The developers aim to allow players to eventually manage multiple cinemas across Paris, building a true cultural empire that grows alongside the evolution of film itself. This long-term vision sets Cinema Theater Tycoon apart from other management simulations, offering a unique blend of strategic gameplay and historical immersion.

An Independent Project Driven by Passion

What’s particularly noteworthy about Cinema Theater Tycoon is its origins. The game is the product of a two-person team working part-time for over two years, fueled by a shared love of cinema and management games. This independent spirit shines through in the game’s design, which prioritizes a comprehensive and authentic cinema ownership experience. The developers aren’t just building a game; they’re crafting a living cultural space within a digital world.

The full release of Cinema Theater Tycoon is planned for 2026 on PC (via Steam and Epic Games), with console versions for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch slated to follow later in the year. Interested players can download the demo now on Steam and experience the early days of cinematic management firsthand.

The game is designed for fans of deep strategy and management games, as well as those seeking a cozy, creative, and contemplative experience. Every design choice, from wall placement to poster selection, contributes to creating a truly unique venue.

As Cinema Theater Tycoon prepares for its full release, it represents a compelling intersection of gaming and film history. The game’s success will likely hinge on its ability to balance the complexities of business management with the artistic and cultural significance of cinema. The developers’ dedication to detail and passion for the subject matter suggest a promising future for this unique and ambitious project.

What are your thoughts on the game? Share your opinions in the comments below!