Art has been part of the human experience for millennia; witness the cave painting of Altamira, Spain and Lascaux, France, which date to 15,000 – 10,000 BCE. That human beings need to express themselves in some form or fashion for whatever reason is well-established; that there is a universally agreed upon definition of art and ... Read more

STATEMENT PIECES CAN COMPLETE AN OUTFIT AND CREATE A SIGNATURE LOOK.  Inspired by culture, art, and fashion, this edition brings to life the essence and importance of jewelry in everyday use. In a category all its own, jewelry helps convey the story of one’s own personal style, illuminating the repertoire of constant self-expression and the driving ... Read more

Last year I flew to Europe with my uncle and 85-year-old grandparents to sightsee and visit our distant relatives. The trip was so incredible we prohibited my grandparents from dying to ensure an annual family trip. Recently, during our usual Sunday lunch, we ate a global feast to help determine the next country to visit: ... Read more

Let’s be 100 percent honest – working out is not always fun. In fact, as a fitness enthusiast myself, I’d go so far as to venture to say working out is usually not fun. Forgive the overused fitness industry cliché but “that’s why it’s called ‘working out ‘ – its work!” Except for the few ... Read more

CONGRESSIONAL ART CONTEST.  Each year, Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen invites students from her district’s schools to submit art for a contest, awarding the winner with the opportunity to have his/her art shown in the halls of Congress.  Over twenty pieces were entered into the 2013 competition. Pictured at this year’s unveiling at Miami Senior High School in June ... Read more

DRAGONFLY SYMBOL OF NEW CONCEPT STORE. Nestled into the courtyard of the First National Bank of South Miami, enter into Respice – Independent Republic.  Step inside this intimate and hip interior, sense the calm and quality, and appreciate the openness of a loft, an art gallery, a living room and retail showcase. Respice – Independent Republic, ... Read more