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The 2,000-square-foot salon boasts a separate mezzanine level.

 

Sleek hardwood floors and a steel stairwell contribute to the salon's sleek aesthetic.

 

A red brick accent wall adds a pop of color to the space.

 

The salon features comfortable washing stations and an array of products, including Kendall's signature line.

 

Expert makeup applications are also on offer.

 

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James Kendall, well known for his A-list celebrity clientele and precision dry haircuts, has opened an expansive new salon in Beverly Hills on Brighton Way. Clocking in at over 2,000 square feet, the space embodies a chic, modern vibe with dark wooden floors, stark white walls, and mid-century-inspired salon chairs in front of mod white mirrors. Track lighting overhead accentuates the high ceilings, while a red accent wall gives the main room a pop of color. An industrial steel staircase leads to an open mezzanine level.

The salon offers cuts, color, and blowouts, as well as makeup application, with each service reflecting Kendall’s focus on sophisticated techniques and satisfying his clients. In fact, customers are so essential to Kendall that he even names products after them, like The Betty—his signature soft-hold hairspray named for a devoted client. In addition to his own line of products, Kendall carries Oribe and Sachajuan.

Between cuts, customers can take advantage of the salon’s high-quality blow-dry services. James Kendall has partnered with nearby Equinox gym to offer discounted blowouts to clients post-workout, and even offers classes to teach women the skills they need to get the salon look at home. For Mother’s Day, they’re offering a special package of six blow dries for the price of five. Call the salon at 310-858-8045 for more information on services and the exclusive offer. 9635 Brighton Way, Beverly Hills

Woody Allen at the opening night screening of To Rome With Love at the 2012 LA Film Fest.

The LA Film Fest, presented by Film Independent, recently announced the lineup of films that will be showcased at L.A. LIVE June 13-23. Now in its 19th year, the festival will highlight new talent across all genres, screening almost 200 films, shorts, and music videos from around the world. Pedro Almovodar’s highly anticipated movie, I’m So Excited!, will open the festival, while Fox Searchlight’s The Way, Way Back, starring Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Allison Janney, Sam Rockwell, and Maya Rudolph, will serve as the festival’s closing night film.

Other highlights include gala screenings of Ryan Coogler’s Fruitvale Station, and Nicolas Winding Refn’s Only God Forgives, starring Ryan Gosling and Kristin Scott Thomas. Special complimentary-admission community events celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Dazed and Confused, and the 25th anniversary of John Waters’ Hairspray, are also in store.

The fest also includes an array of exciting programming, such as evenings celebrating music in film at The GRAMMY Museum at L.A. LIVE, master classes with Maya Rudolph and Gustavo Santoalalla, conversations with David Mamet and magician Ricky Jay, and much more.  

Festival passes are currently on sale to Film Independent members and the general public, while general admission tickets will go on sale May 21. For more information or to purchase tickets call 866-345-6337 or visit lafilmfest.com.

Hollywood’s elite gathered last night at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons hotel for the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s Women’s Cancer Research Fund fundraising event—An Unforgettable Evening. Presented by Saks Fifth Avenue, the event marked the 16th anniversary of the Women’s Cancer Research Fund, which raises support and funds for innovative breakthroughs in cancer research.

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Lisa Kudrow, Kobe and Vanessa Bryant, Julianne Hough, Tommy Hilfiger, Monique Lhuillier, and more paused on the carpet before heading inside the ballroom for the cocktail reception.

 

Chelsea Handler hosted the event, introducing the programming during a seated dinner and awards presentation.

 

Kylie Minogue, who is a breast cancer survivor, was honored with the 2013 Courage Award, which recognized her efforts to help raise awareness for the disease.

 

Actress Rita Wilson presented the Nat King Cole Award to designer Carolina Herrera—who had dressed Wilson as well as Kate Capshaw, Kylie Minogue, Chelsea Handler, and Julianne Hough for the evening—in recognition of her continued support of the EIF Women’s Cancer Research Fund.

 

The evening concluded with a high-energy performance by Bruno Mars, who sang an assortment of his greatest hits including “Billionaire”, “Money,” and “Just The Way You Are.”

 

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F. Scott Fitzgerald (shown in Hollywood, 1937) spent his last years in the LA area.

We’re always writing about the chic trunk shows at Elyse Walker’s Pacific Palisades boutique, so we couldn’t resist the chance to peek inside her home closet thanks to The Coveteur. [The Coveteur]

If it’s outdoor décor inspiration you’re after, check out Annette Gutierrez of Potted’s tips for the Los Angeles Times. From color-coordinated flowers, to drought-tolerant succulents, to a full-on dining room in the backyard, Gutierrez’s abode is an amazing inspiration for LA homeowners looking to use their outdoor spaces wisely. [LA Times]

Red Medicine’s Jordan Kahn takes food lust to the next level with a new film, Reverie. Drool-inducing dishes are prepared from solely local ingredients, showcasing Southern California’s vast natural produce. [LA Weekly]

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby takes place in New York, but not many people know that the author spent his last years in Los Angeles. See the city as Fitzgerald once knew it, and the places he used to frequent. [LA Mag]

On the subject of great literature, Variety has tuned us into a fun event taking place May 5: a reading of literary forbidden fruit. Expect to hear passages from books that were banned from schools back in the day, such as The Color Purple, Catch-22, and Of Mice and Men. [Variety]

Opt for the Alacran Margarita (above) or one of the new cocktails at Red O's Cinco de Mayo.

This weekend, Rick Bayless’ Red O will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with live entertainment and specials, including chances to taste the resto’s new dishes and drinks. Things kick off on May 3 (5-7 pm) with a street food social hour that spotlights tapas and cocktails at specialty prices. The street food menu has recently been revamped to include dishes like the Red O trio, which comprises a Niman ranch pork belly sope, slow-cooked Sonoma duck taquito, and fresh corn and goat cheese tamale, while favorite cocktails like the Alacran Margarita—with Sauza Conmemorativo tequila, Veev Açai spirit, Torres orange liqueur, fresh limonada, and a spicy Serrano-infused syrup—are still on offer. The social hour also runs 4-6 pm on Saturday.

Cinco de Mayo festivities continue with a brunch May 4-5 (10:30 am-3 pm) that features Red O favorites like the organic hot cakes and eggs. Fare can be paired with a specialty flight of Casamigos tequila or mix-your-own cocktails from a Bloody Maria and Michelada bar. Guests will also have the opportunity to sample new spring cocktails by resident mixologist Steve Calabro, like the Casa Blanca Margarita, which combines clarified lime juice, all natural triple sec, and premium Casamingos Blanco. Live guitarists performing throughout the brunch service complete the atmosphere. Reservations are recommended by calling the restaurant directly or booking through opentable.com. 8155 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, 323-655-5009

Los Angeles is off to the races this weekend, with Kentucky Derby viewing parties taking place throughout the city May 4. After you’ve had your fill of mint juleps and Mornay sauce, switch gears to margaritas and mariachis for lively Cinco de Mayo celebrations on May 5. While there are too many to list, here are four great spots to celebrate the weekend’s festivities.

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KENTUCKY DERBY
Skybar at the Mondrian Hotel
Saturday, May 4, 12 pm
Summer suits and Derby dresses are encouraged for the viewing party at Skybar, where guests will enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails as they luxuriate in sprawling views of Los Angeles and watch the race. Bartenders will be whipping up specialty cocktails such as The Derby, a mix of bourbon, sweet vermouth, orange curacao, and fresh lime juice. Between races, guests can get down to music from DJ Chris Carter. Event entrance is free with RSVP; call the bar at 323-848-6025 or email skybarla@mhgc.com for table reservations. 8440 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood

 

KENTUCKY DERBY
Bar NINETEEN 12 at the Beverly Hills Hotel
Saturday, May 4, 2 pm
Don your best big hat (it could earn you brunch for four at the Polo Lounge) and head to the Beverly Hills Hotel for a posh viewing party complete with classic cocktails like the Derby staple—a mint julep. Take in the races while you snack on specialty menu items like buttermilk fried chicken wings, a classic “hot brown” (an open-faced turkey sandwich with Mornay sauce), and bourbon pecan pie. During the afternoon (2-4 pm), a whiskey tasting by Heaven Hill Distilleries is another way to cheers the holiday. Post-Derby, enjoy tunes by Eddie Wakes (4-7 pm), and a performance from Quetzal Guerrero (9 pm-12:30 am). Call the bar at 310-273-1912 for reservations. 9641 Sunset Blvd., Beverly Hills

 

CINCO DE MAYO
Windows Lounge at the Four Seasons
Saturday, May 4-Sunday, May 5, 4 pm
The Four Seasons’ Windows Lounge is toasting Cinco de Mayo all weekend long with a celebratory menu of Mexican cuisine. Guests can sip on specialty cocktails like The Ginger Rey, which mixes Casamigos Reposado tequila, King’s Ginger liquor, fresh lime, agave, and passion fruit, paired with snacks like a Dungeness crab tostada, crispy chicken taquitos, or a Mexican-style shrimp cocktail with avocado, cucumber, and corn chips. But be sure to save room for dessert because they’re serving up hot churros with fresh Mexican chocolate. 300 S. Doheny Dr., Beverly Hills, 310-273-2222

 

CINCO DE MAYO
Cinco
Sunday, May 5, 1-6 pm
Expand your horizons this weekend and head to Cinco—a brand-new concept from an amalgam of Los Angeles nightlife impresarios in the Westchester/Playa Del Rey neighborhood. The venue focuses on craft cocktails, along with local beers on tap and barrel-aged spirits, so specialty libations like the Gardenia—a combination of el Jimador tequila, grapefruit, cucumber, lime, honey, and blackberries—are sure to be a hit. Meanwhile, a traditional barbacoa platter is on offer, and a live mariachi band plays from 4-6 pm. 7241 W. Manchester Ave., Westchester, 310-910-0895

 

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The crowd pigging out at last year's Cochon 555.

LA Suitcase Party
Friday, May 3, 7:30-11 pm
Pack your bags and head to a luxury private hangar at the Van Nuys Airport for the annual LA Suitcase Party. Benefiting the Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), the evening features a one-of-a-kind raffle that selects one lucky guest to board a private jet to Zihuatanejo, Mexico. The raffle continues with a chance to win other luxe getaways, while a live and silent auction stays on theme by featuring travel items. Whether they win or lose, all attendees can preview luxury cars by Bentley and Maserati, and enjoy live music by LA Vation, catering by Jennifer Naylor, and Ultimat Vodka cocktails. Tickets start at $250 and can be purchased at lasuitcaseparty2013.eventbrite.com. Clay Lacy Aviation, 7435 Valjean Ave., Van Nuys

45 Three Modern Vintage Estate Sale
Saturday, May 4-Sunday, May 5, 10 am-5 pm
Pencil in a visit to 45 Three Modern Vintage this weekend to pick up covetable décor for your collection during their Cinco de Mayo estate sale. Curated by owner Staci Cain, the weekend-long event features furnishings and upholstery from two liquidated mid-century homes, all on display in her Fairfax storefronts. 1051½ Fairfax Ave., Hancock Park, 323-932-0832

Cochon 555 at House of Blues
Sunday, May 5, 4 pm
Celebrate the fifth anniversary of Cochon555—the touring culinary competition and celebration of heritage breed pigs—which makes its final stop at Los Angeles’ House of Blues. The event will see five of the area’s top chefs, including Joshua Whigham (Bazaar by Jose Andres), Gavin Lansdale (Ford’s Filling Station), and Jet Tila (The Charleston), cooking entire pigs to be paired with sips from participating wineries. Guests and judges will crown a winning chef who will go on to the Cochon finals in Aspen. Additional tastings by Taza Chocolate, Anchor Brewing, Pig’s Nose Scotch, and more are also in store. Tickets start at $125 for general admission, while VIP passes ($200) allow guests to arrive one hour in advance. 8430 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323-848-5100

Want to celebrate the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo? Click here for our event picks this weekend>>

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A self-portrait of Jay Mark Johnson.

 

IL MERCATO A SINISTRA #1, Jay Mark Johnson; Cetona, Italia, 2007.

 

STORM AT SEA #2, Jay Mark Johnson; Los Angeles, 2010.

 

VENICE BOARDWALK #2, Jay Mark Johnson; Los Angeles, 2007.

 

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There are few names that are widely accepted as defining the California creative landscape—but Jay Mark Johnson’s is one of them. A photographer living and working in Venice, Johnson has become well known for his signature style of photography, which captures movement in a transformative way to result in visually stunning pieces.

Johnson’s works can often be found locally at ACE Gallery and William Turner Gallery as well as within the permanent collections of various museums. Visit jaymarkjohnson.com for a list of current showings, and see below for some insight into the artist’s creative process.

What is your favorite place to shoot in California? 
JAY MARK JOHNSON: I like the public beaches in Venice, Oxnard, and Ventura, as well as those south of Morro Bay. Of course Big Sur is rich with great locations, but you won’t recognize any of those picturesque spots in my images, because my camera only sees things that are in motion. For that reason, the locales that have been most productive for me are those where certain motions are distinct or dramatic. For artworks based upon the movement of pedestrians and bicycles, the boardwalk in Venice Beach has been useful, especially as it is walking distance from my home.

Tell us a bit about how you create your amazing timeline images.
JMJ: I use a camera that is designed to create sweeping 360-degree panoramic images. With a few simple modifications—I push one button and then wrap the whole thing in tape—the camera produces smooth, continuous timeline depictions of the events that unfold in front of it. Because I use the camera in a manner it was not designed for, there are unexpected quirks in the process that I’m able to exploit, like the strange compression of shapes, and the vibrant, saturated backgrounds. I think it is equally important to point out that it is not the apparatus itself that creates an interesting image; it is the choices one makes as an artist. How an image is conceptualized—as shaped by influences such as culture, memory, and intention—probably has more bearing on the outcome than any other factor.

What are some of the themes you hope to explore with your work? 
JMJ: It’s fairly easy to view my artworks as falling into two distinct groups. One group explores the physical world in a relatively neutral way. I produce other series that take a more critical look at who we are and what we do. These focus on our movements, on our machines, and on our industries. Some consider the isolation of the individual in the modern setting, the frenetic traffic patterns of our daily migrations, or the speed and determination with which we consume the landscape. Recently I have begun a series looking at how we collect and process garbage.

What was it like working behind the scenes on iconic visual films like the The Matrix and Titanic? 
JMJ: I think it is it impossible not to be impressed by large-scale film productions. One can only marvel at how so many highly-specialized individuals are brought together to collaborate in the production of an enormously complex cultural artifact. In the specific case of both The Matrix and Titanic, I sensed a distinctive, enervated atmosphere—an excitement that, from the collective effort, new technologies were being tested, and new visual ephemera were being forged.

Actor Greg Kinnear reads to a captive audience at the 2011 K.A.M.P. event.

The Hammer Museum will host their fourth annual Kids’ Art Museum Project (K.A.M.P.) event on Sunday, May, 5 (10 am-2 pm) bringing celebrated Los Angeles artists and Hollywood stars together for an afternoon of artistic collaboration. Hands-on workshops led by local photographers, sculptors, and painters—such as Mark Hagen, T. Kelly Mason, Ry Rocklen, Adam Silverman, and Michael Webster—will take over the museum’s courtyard and provide an inside look at the artists’ creative processes.

The event also includes a reading series where celebrities like Jodie Foster, Dianna Agron, Julie Bowen, and James Van Der Beek will join guests in the permanent collection galleries and read selections from their favorite children’s books. Meanwhile, attendees young and old will enjoy refreshments from local sponsors like Wolfgang Puck, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Intelligentsia, and Monsieur Marcel.

Proceeds from K.A.M.P. will benefit the Hammer’s public youth programs, like Hammer Kids and Family Flicks. Tickets start at $150 for individuals, and range up to $20,000 for VIP experiences that include patron membership to the museum and invitations to other exclusive events. Purchase tickets at hammer.ucla.edu, or call Conrad Beilharz at 310-443-7036 for more information. 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood, 310-443-7000