In a remote mountain village nestled in the heart of Tuscany, culinary traditions have been passed down through generations. Acone, with its sparse population and rich history dating back to the sixth century, has preserved a unique dish that captivates the senses. The village, immortalized by Dante’s fleeting reference in his "Divine Comedy," is home to a single restaurant where a particular pasta dish reigns supreme. This creation, known as penne all’Aconese, combines dried porcini mushrooms, cured pork, deep tomato paste, and a generous sprinkle of black pepper, all enveloped in a comforting cream sauce. For many, this dish evokes memories of wandering through scenic landscapes dotted with towering cypress trees.
For Ixta Belfrage, who spent her childhood in Acone, the flavors of this dish remain etched in her memory. Though she left the village at a young age, the essence of Acone never truly left her. Her culinary journey began not in formal training but through observation and intuition. During visits to her grandparents' home in Mexico, she watched as traditional dishes were prepared, absorbing techniques without formal instruction. This hands-on experience shaped her approach to cooking, leading her to embrace creativity over rigid recipes. Her philosophy—cooking should be free from constraints—guided her career from a humble start in London to collaborating with renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi.
Belfrage’s passion for capturing the depth of flavor found in Acone inspired her to innovate. In her 2020 cookbook, she aimed to recreate the richness of meat in a vegetable lasagna using porcini mushrooms. These mushrooms, named for their resemblance to little pigs, thrive in symbiosis with certain trees, giving them a distinct earthy taste. However, the complexity of this recipe proved daunting for many. Seeking a simpler yet equally flavorful solution, Belfrage refined her approach in her subsequent cookbook, focusing on a quick ragù that retained the essence of Acone’s culinary heritage. Through this process, she demonstrated that true flavor can be achieved without sacrificing simplicity or time.
This exploration of culinary tradition and innovation highlights the power of preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern techniques. It reminds us that sometimes, the most profound experiences come from revisiting our roots and finding new ways to express them. By honoring the past and adapting to the present, we can create something both familiar and fresh, enriching our lives and those around us.
In a breathtaking setting overlooking the Cordillera de Sama Biological Reserve, a group of travelers gathered to partake in an ancient Andean tradition. The ritual involved pouring libations to Pachamama, the Earth Mother, as they embraced the stark beauty of Bolivia's high desert landscape. At an elevation of 3,500 meters, the thin air added an unexpected twist to the experience, causing lightheadedness and a profound connection with nature. This unique moment highlighted the importance of cultural rituals and environmental awareness in one of the world's most remote and stunning regions.
The gathering took place on a plateau surrounded by the vast expanse of the Cordillera de Sama Mountain range. As the sun blazed overhead, participants were treated to panoramic views that stretched endlessly into the horizon. Sparse, dust-colored land gave way to a shimmering lagoon teeming with vibrant flamingos, creating a surreal contrast against the expansive sky. Orlando Condori, the guide, initiated the ceremony by raising his glass and pouring wine onto the parched sand. One by one, each person followed suit, chanting "Pachamama!" in unison. For many, this act was both mysterious and deeply moving, symbolizing respect for the earth and its resources.
Among the attendees was Niki Barbery-Bleyleben, a conservation ambassador for Prometa, an organization dedicated to sustainability and community resilience. She explained that the dizzying sensation experienced at such high altitudes was not due to the wine but rather the thin air. Indeed, at nearly 11,000 feet above sea level, the body reacts differently to its surroundings. Despite feeling disoriented, participants remained captivated by the scenery and the significance of their actions. The ritual served as a reminder of humanity's interconnectedness with nature, especially in fragile ecosystems like those found in Bolivia's southern region.
Beyond the immediate experience, this encounter underscored the importance of preserving natural habitats and respecting indigenous traditions. The Cordillera de Sama Biological Reserve stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human activity and environmental conservation. By participating in rituals like the one witnessed here, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the land and its custodians. Ultimately, this journey through Bolivia's high desert left an indelible mark on all who ventured there, fostering a renewed commitment to protecting our planet's treasures.
A pioneering artist and nightlife visionary, Gage Spex has turned their passion for dolls into an elaborate artistic expression. After the closure of Spectrum, a Brooklyn-based DIY nightclub, Spex embarked on a new venture in Ridgewood, Queens. This new space, dubbed Dreamhouse, featured extravagant chandeliers and walls adorned with quirky diamond patterns, creating a whimsical atmosphere. The name "Dreamhouse" was inspired by the colorful plastic homes designed for Barbie dolls, which Spex had been collecting since childhood. Growing up in western Massachusetts, Spex found joy in crafting imaginative worlds for these toys, transforming them into grand mansions and nightclubs. Today, this cherished collection of over 200 dolls is displayed reverently on pink shelves in their Bushwick apartment.
Spex's fascination with dolls extends beyond mere nostalgia. In recent years, they have organized events at prominent venues like Judson Memorial Church, celebrating the diverse identities of transgender individuals. For Spex, dolls symbolize the freedom to embody any persona one desires. “You can be whoever you want,” they reflect, highlighting the empowering nature of their hobby. The collection began with visits to flea markets alongside parents who were antique enthusiasts. Over time, it has grown to include not only dolls but also rare accessories. A recent acquisition includes mod outfits from the '60s and a brunette doll with reflective blue hair, adding unique pieces to the collection. Even the least expensive doll, a $10 red-haired figure from the '70s named Walking Jamie, holds special significance.
Inspired by the transformative power of art and identity, Spex's collection serves as a testament to the boundless creativity and self-expression that can emerge from seemingly simple objects. Through their work, Spex encourages others to embrace their true selves, fostering a community where everyone feels empowered to explore and celebrate their individuality. The dolls, once mere playthings, now stand as symbols of limitless possibility and personal liberation.