New York, New York, and Can Zara Really be Luxury?
By Wim Langedijk for HURS
New York, New York, and Can Zara Really be Luxury?
HUR Reads is our definitive shortlist of the most prominent articles from around the web.
By HURS Team
1
The Diminishing Return of Having Good Taste
This article discusses navigating cultural landscapes in today's society, drawing from different cultural spheres and contexts to construct their own sense of taste and identity. Using examples ranging from food to fashion, Marx examines how cultural arbitrage gives the opportunity for individuals to transcend traditional boundaries and embrace a variety of diverse influences. Exploring the relationship between authenticity and appropriation associated, as well as its role in shaping cultural hierarchies and power dynamics.
THE ATLANTIC
Casey Cep profiles Deb Haaland, the first Native American to lead a federal agency, focusing on her efforts to confront its historical treatment of Indigenous peoples. Haaland discusses her background as an activist and lawmaker, her commitment to addressing injustices, and her initiatives to prioritize Indigenous voices and reform agency policies. She highlights the significance of her appointment into her position and the challenges she faces in reconciling the agency's past with its future direction. An interesting and inspiring story we have enjoyed exploring.
THE NEW YORKER
Rachel Tashjian delves into Zara's rise to prominence, tracing its business model and rapid expansion into global markets. Tashjian discusses the brand's approach to fashion production, emphasizing its ability to quickly respond to trends and deliver new designs to stores within weeks, and capitalize on the fast paced nature of the industry. She also examines the controversies surrounding Zara, including allegations of unethical labor practices and environmental concerns associated with fast fashion and the importance of social responsibility with today's customer.
THE WASHINGTON POST
Maxwell Rabb profiles Courtney Willis Blair, the newly appointed director of White Cube's New York gallery, speaking on her role in elevating the gallery's presence and influence. Exploring Blair's background in the art world and her previous experiences, emphasizing her expertise in contemporary art and her commitment to promoting diverse voices within the industry. Rabb discusses Blair's vision for White Cube's New York space, including plans for exhibitions and collaborations aimed at engaging with local communities and addressing important social issues.
ARTSY
Beatrice Galilee reflects on her 10-year anniversary in New York, particularly her experience living in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. She describes the neighborhood as a creative oasis close enough to Manhattan yet keeping its own suburban identity. Galilee discusses the area's cultural vibrancy, including its place in fostering artistic movements and initiatives like The World Around, a non-profit organization started in 2019 with a mission to amplify new voices in architecture. She mentions cultural landmarkS and the neighborhood's diverse culinary scene, giving another flavor of the community within Fort Greene.