Acura launches an exhibition featuring renowned photographer, Erik Madigan Heck

Acura, the automotive luxury brand, presented their latest model, the all-new 2010 Acura ZDX four-door sports coupe, in Miami on Thursday, February 25th, at the W South Beach. The event launched a seven-city tour featuring the vehicle and the works of renowned photographer Erik Madigan Heck. The Acura ZDX was designed with as much creative freedom as Erik Madigan Heck’s works - making the partnership between the artist and Acura a natural fit. At 26-years-old, Heck is an established fine art and fashion photographer who has shot the collections of the world’s finest designers including Valentino Garavani, Christian Lacroix, Jean Paul Gaultier and Helmut Lang. Last night, I had the opportunity to interview Heck.

MBS: What is your favorite type of photography?

Heck: Well, I shoot mostly fashion photography but for this event, I wanted to show a balance between some of my landscape and figurative work. I also segmented the pieces based on color.

MBS: How did your partnership with the new Acura ZDX come together?
Heck: The concept for this new car was developed by a team of young designers (at the new Acura Design Studio in Torrance, California) who are all around my age. They were looking for a similar artist to represent their newest creation. In that respect, it works really well.

MBS: Have you ever been in Miami and is there anything you're looking forward to experiencing?

Heck: Never been in Miami! I haven't been able to explore it as much as I would like to but I definitely love the beautiful weather.

MBS: What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Heck: I did a shoot for a Belgian fashion designer, Ann Demeulemeester, and I was a huge fan of hers for years. Ann's clothing is very expensive and she is a highly sought after designer. But, one day I did a photoshoot for her and she absolutely loved it so we became friends. It was like becoming friends with your hero. It was awesome!

Erik Madigan Heck is also the Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director of Nomenus Quarterly, a hybrid online/print publication that features the world’s most influential artists, institutions and fashion designers. To see more of Heck's work, you can visit his websites:
http://maisondesprit.com/ or http://www.nomenusquarterly.com/. Beware: his work is AMAAAAZZZING (I think he's MY new hero)!!!

After my chat with Heck, I returned to the exhibition where a crowd surrounded the new 2010 Acura ZDX. While some guests mingled, others couldn't help but sit inside the stunning coupe-like vehicle to see the panoramic glass roof. If you're interested in viewing this car yourself, then note that these Acura ZDX Launch Parties featuring Erik Madigan Heck will travel from Miami to Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington, D.C., culminating in New York City on April 8, 2010. I definitely see why Acura scheduled Miami as their first stop on the tour!

Guests at the 2010 Acura ZDX launch event in Miami

"Cultural Fridays" coming to Little Havana

If you're looking to immerse yourself in Miami's rich culture, you must attend Viernes Culturales (or Cultural Fridays) in the historic Little Havana neighborhood of Miami (8th St. SW between 14th and 17th Avenues). For those who didn't buy tickets to attend the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, this is certainly the place to be tomorrow (plus it's FREE)! Viernes Culturales showcases the talented visual artists and entertainers of our city. Once a month, visitors and tourists flock to this festival to experience an evening of culture highlighted by the diverse flavors of our Latino community.

On Friday, February 26th, check out some vibrant outdoor musical performances along the sidewalks of Calle Ocho or admire the exhibits presented by local artists. There will also be cuisine tastings at participating restaurants as well as an educational program hosted at the historic Tower Theatre. Free walking tours of Little Havana will also take place throughout the day. The event starts at 6:30 pm and will end by 11 pm. For more information on this festival, visit http://www.viernesculturales.org/. Enjoy the cool weather and have a wonderful weekend!

(Photo by Alex Diaz) Live painting by EVA

Miami International Fashion Week Party

On February 25th, the Miami Fashion Week Foundation will officially launch their March 2010 event by hosting a Kick-Off Party along with Tiffany & Co. Enjoy a fashion presentation by Miami’s most prestigious designers, delicacies prepared by local celebrity chefs, wine and champagne and a silent auction. During the party, there will also be a special performance by renowned pianist Julian De La Chica. Tickets are on sale for $100 with proceeds benefiting the Miami Fashion Week Foundation's scholarship fund. This foundation hosts a variety of fundraising events throughout the year to raise funds that will benefit the emerging designers and students studying fashion, photography, film and graphic design. The kick-off party will be held at the Gary Nader Fine Art (62 N.E. 27th Street, Wynwood Art District) from 7- 10 p.m. For more information on this event or to purchase your ticket online, visit http://www.miamifashionweek.com/.

A Fashionable Investment to help Haiti

It’s never too late to donate to Haiti while adding a fabulous shirt to your wardrobe. Make a charitable donation to the people of Haiti by purchasing your very own Saks Fifth Avenue "Fashion for Haiti" t-shirt. The shirt was designed by Peter Arnell and it features a block design with the words, “To Haiti With Love” along with a map of the country. A percentage of all profits will go toward the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, an organization raising money for the immediate relief and long-term recovery process of Haiti. Since each shirt costs $25, Saks will be making their own contribution to the American Red Cross. The sale begins tomorrow, February 23rd, when both men’s and women’s styles hit South Florida stores (available at Saks Fifth Avenue, 7687 N. Kendall Dr., Miami, 305.662.8655 and 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour, 305.865.1100). To purchase your shirt online, visit http://bit.ly/dASuYq.

The Spam Allstars are bringing the BEAT!!!

If you've never seen the Spam Allstars performing live, then you're missing a major source of Miami's sazon in your life! On Thursday, February 25th, the Spam Allstars are bringing their contagious beats to the Music Series at Bal Harbour Shops. To continue their weekly Cultural Series, Bal Harbour Village (9700 Collins Avenue) presents a complimentary outdoor concert featuring two performances by the eclectic band starting at 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Blending their improvisational electronic elements and turntables with latin, funk, hip hop and dub, the Spam Allstars will energize your mind and body with their soulful sounds. After this event, join the Spam Allstars as they host their CD Release Party at Hoy Como Ayer (2212 SW 8th Street, Miami) where you can hear two sets from "Rumberos de la 8" live!! For more information about the band or to see their full schedule, check out http://www.spamallstars.com/. By the end of the night, you'll be dancing and singing along to their catchy lyrics. Enjoy the shows, xoxo

Visit the South Beach Wine & Food Festival

The Food Network officially kicks off their annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival on Thursday, February 25th. This is a national, star-studded, four-day event showcasing the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities. Although most of the events have been sold out, you can still reserve your tickets for an educational wine seminar or a relaxing lunch over at Joe's Stone Crab.

Another event that has not been sold out is the "Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village" which takes place on Sunday, February 28th. This event actually features many of the chefs seen on the Food Network including Anthony Bourdain, Paula Deen, Emeril Lagasse, Guy Fieri and Daisy Martinez. Bring your friends and take a stroll through South Beach as you learn about the seductive, restorative power of inspired cuisine, excellent wines, and well-crafted spirits.

For a complete list of events or to purchase your tickets online, visit www.sobewineandfoodfest.com. Enjoy the festival and always remember to drink responsibly.

Bravo's Millionaire Matchmaker is in Miami!

If you're addicted to her reality show, then don't miss your chance to meet the Millionaire Matchmaker herself, Patti Stanger, as she autographs her new book: "Become Your Own Matchmaker." On Saturday, February 20th, Patti will be in Miami to greet her fans and autograph copies of her latest guide to finding true love. This event will be hosted at Books & Books on South Beach (927 Lincoln Road) and it will start at 5 p.m. (to be eligible for an autograph: books must be purchased at the store). After Patti mingles with her readers, she will be making a cameo at SET Night Club to celebrate her book release with style. Ladies are encouraged to come out and look your sexiest because Patti may match you with your very own millionaire! Enjoy some house music in the main room with DJ John Cash or catch Mr. Sandman spinning hip hop in the upstairs VIP room. For those who didn't have much luck with love on Valentine's Day, this may be your big break!

Join the Autism Speaks Walk this Sunday!

Join the Autism Speaks Walk to change the future for all who struggle with autism! On Sunday, February 21st, you will be able to walk for a good cause at Crandon Park in Key Biscayne. Walk Now for Autism Speaks is a fun-filled, family friendly event that funds vital research to help understand the causes, prevention and treatments for autism. Every 20 minutes, another family receives the news that their child has autism. Whether you strive to join the new "Grand Club" (walkers that raise $1,000 or more) or you raise $10, you can make a difference in the lives of others! To participate in the walk, you may register as an individual or you can start a corporate, school or family team. This Sunday, registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. and the walk will kick-off at 10:00 a.m. For more information on this event, visit www.walk.autismspeaks.org or call (888) 777-6227 to request materials. Go out and enjoy the cool weather this weekend!

Girls Aloud’s Sarah Harding in a White Bikini

Girls Aloud’s Sarah Harding is on vacation in Barbados… and we know what this means: bikini treat!

Looking really nice in this white bikini!

See some mopre from different angles after the jump!

Girls Aloud’s Sarah Harding in a White Bikini

Girls Aloud’s Sarah Harding is on vacation in Barbados… and we know what this means: bikini treat!

Looking really nice in this white bikini!

See some mopre from different angles after the jump!

Model Erin Wasson – Topless on the Beach

Model bikini treat!

Name: Erin Wasson

Age: 28

Height: 5′10.5″ / 179cm

Measurements (according to FMD): (US) 32-24-34 / (EU) 81-61-86

See some more!

Model Erin Wasson – Topless on the Beach

Model bikini treat!

Name: Erin Wasson

Age: 28

Height: 5′10.5″ / 179cm

Measurements (according to FMD): (US) 32-24-34 / (EU) 81-61-86

See some more!

Huffington Post’s Top Five Sexiest Celebrity Female Bodies

Here’s another Hottest Bodies List for your delight! This time, it comes from Huffington Post:

The Top Five Sexiest Celebrity Female Bodies

1. Halle Berry: This Academy Award-winning beauty known for her roles in Monsters Ball, X-Men, Swordfish and Catwoman follows a popular fitness and lifestyle program developed by fitness trainer Harley Pasternak called the “5 Factor Fitness Plan.” I think the results speak for themselves.

2. Jessica Biel: This 27-year-old actress has been criticized for her comments about being too beautiful to be cast for certain roles in film, but then again, maybe she’s on to something. Her youthful glow and lean, athletic physique is most likely attributed to her clean, diet, relentless work ethic, and training with personal trainer Jason Walsh. So maybe he’s the one to blame.

3. Kim Kardashian: This Socialite, model and entrepreneur has always been sexy, but the addition of the services of celeb trainer Gunnar Peterson, along with a built-in fitness support system provided by her Super Bowl bound NFL-star boyfriend and Olympian stepfather have made her a force to be reckoned with.

4. Cindy Crawford: I think “wow” sums her up best. This model, entrepreneur, spokesperson and mother of two, who is known for her trademark mole, is truly a timeless beauty. Now in her 40’s she’s only getting better with age and much of it has to do with her active lifestyle, which consists of pilates, strength training, yoga, dance classes, running and occasionally jumping on the trampoline with the kids.

5. Beyonce Knowles: Several takes of her dance routine in the “Single Ladies” video will have anyone drenched in sweat and gasping for air, not to mention her hardcore workouts with trainer Marco Borges.

Honorable Mention: Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Jennifer Aniston, Eva Mendes and Gabrielle Union

The magazine also specifies the following:

Fantastic physiques like Halle Berry’s are not products of magic pills or trendy equipment promoted on late night infomercials, they are achieved with intense training, sound nutrition, sacrifice, discipline, determination and gallons of sweat. These great bodies are not only admired, envied and fantasized about by all, but they also have directly translated to success in the entertainment industry.

Yes, yes, these bodies are the product of “diet, sweat, discipline”… and, may I add, GENES. And hmm… I thought Quick Trim was one of those “magic pills”

Do you agree with this list or not?

If you want to see the Sexiest Celebrity Male Bodies, click here!

Share your thoughts!

Huffington Post’s Top Five Sexiest Celebrity Female Bodies

Here’s another Hottest Bodies List for your delight! This time, it comes from Huffington Post:

The Top Five Sexiest Celebrity Female Bodies

1. Halle Berry: This Academy Award-winning beauty known for her roles in Monsters Ball, X-Men, Swordfish and Catwoman follows a popular fitness and lifestyle program developed by fitness trainer Harley Pasternak called the “5 Factor Fitness Plan.” I think the results speak for themselves.

2. Jessica Biel: This 27-year-old actress has been criticized for her comments about being too beautiful to be cast for certain roles in film, but then again, maybe she’s on to something. Her youthful glow and lean, athletic physique is most likely attributed to her clean, diet, relentless work ethic, and training with personal trainer Jason Walsh. So maybe he’s the one to blame.

3. Kim Kardashian: This Socialite, model and entrepreneur has always been sexy, but the addition of the services of celeb trainer Gunnar Peterson, along with a built-in fitness support system provided by her Super Bowl bound NFL-star boyfriend and Olympian stepfather have made her a force to be reckoned with.

4. Cindy Crawford: I think “wow” sums her up best. This model, entrepreneur, spokesperson and mother of two, who is known for her trademark mole, is truly a timeless beauty. Now in her 40’s she’s only getting better with age and much of it has to do with her active lifestyle, which consists of pilates, strength training, yoga, dance classes, running and occasionally jumping on the trampoline with the kids.

5. Beyonce Knowles: Several takes of her dance routine in the “Single Ladies” video will have anyone drenched in sweat and gasping for air, not to mention her hardcore workouts with trainer Marco Borges.

Honorable Mention: Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Jennifer Aniston, Eva Mendes and Gabrielle Union

The magazine also specifies the following:

Fantastic physiques like Halle Berry’s are not products of magic pills or trendy equipment promoted on late night infomercials, they are achieved with intense training, sound nutrition, sacrifice, discipline, determination and gallons of sweat. These great bodies are not only admired, envied and fantasized about by all, but they also have directly translated to success in the entertainment industry.

Yes, yes, these bodies are the product of “diet, sweat, discipline”… and, may I add, GENES. And hmm… I thought Quick Trim was one of those “magic pills”

Do you agree with this list or not?

If you want to see the Sexiest Celebrity Male Bodies, click here!

Share your thoughts!

Candice Swanepoel Rocks Bikinis

Name: Candice Swanepoel

Age: 21

Nationality: South African

Height: 5′9″ / 175.5cm

Dress Size: (US) 4

She looks absolutely amazing!

Much, much more after the jump!

Candice Swanepoel Rocks Bikinis

Name: Candice Swanepoel

Age: 21

Nationality: South African

Height: 5′9″ / 175.5cm

Dress Size: (US) 4

She looks absolutely amazing!

Much, much more after the jump!