An extraordinary example of cross-cultural artistic exchange from the Kangxi reign — featuring the only known depiction of walruses in Qing porcelain — will be offered at auction this May. 

LONDON, UK. May 6th, 2025 — Roseberys London is set to auction an unparalleled masterpiece of Qing dynasty porcelain in its upcoming Asian Art sale on Tuesday, 13th May at 10am — a unique blue and white soft-paste ‘walrus’ vase from the Kangxi period (1662–1722).
 
Standing at 23cm tall and exquisitely painted in cobalt blue, this elegantly potted vessel features an extraordinary subject never before seen on Chinese ceramics: a pair of walruses resting above a roiling sea. 

The vase is not only visually arresting, with its fine craquelure and creamy-white glaze, but also historically significant, embodying a pivotal moment of East-West cultural exchange during the late 17th century. Created at a time when Jesuit missionaries were embedded in the Qing court, it reflects the Kangxi Emperor’s fascination with the natural world and foreign knowledge. 

“This is truly a once-in-a-generation discovery,” said Bill Forrest, Head of the Asian Art department at Roseberys. “There is no other recorded example of walruses on Chinese porcelain, making this vase an utterly unique window into the cultural and scientific dialogues that defined the Kangxi era.” 

Kangxi’s Curiosity and the Jesuit Influence 

During his reign, the Kangxi Emperor welcomed Jesuit missionaries like Ferdinand Verbiest, who brought Western knowledge in astronomy, cartography, and natural history. Through their books and illustrations, exotic animals including Arctic marine life found their way into the Chinese imagination and eventually into court art. 

The walruses depicted on this vase are almost certainly derived from such sources, including Western natural history texts and hybrid publications like the Illustrated Records of Sea Monsters (海怪图记). These books merged Western engraving techniques with Chinese brushwork to depict animals both real and mythological, expanding the visual language of Chinese artists. 

A Symbol of Global Curiosity 

This singular vase does more than showcase a rare subject — it encapsulates the intellectual and artistic openness of the Kangxi court, where European and Chinese traditions merged in fascinating ways. The walruses are not merely decorative; they are symbolic of a dynasty in dialogue with the world. 

Whether inspired by Jesuit illustrations, firsthand encounters like Kangxi’s famed inspection of a live seal presented by Korean envoys, or the broader trend of collecting and cataloguing the exotic, this vase is a material embodiment of an empire exploring its place in a global context. 

For collectors, historians, and museums alike, this is an unmissable opportunity to acquire a singular work of Kangxi porcelain — the only known ‘walrus’ vase from imperial China.

Viewing is open now by appointment at Roseberys London.

ENDS

FREEHOLD, NEW JERSEY, USA. — May 2nd, 2025 — Actors Playground School of Theatre, a beloved creative hub in New Jersey known for its innovative curriculum and deep commitment to student support, proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary this May. 

Since opening its doors in 2005 under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Ralph Colombino, the school has become a cornerstone of theater education, transforming the lives of young artists and igniting the power of storytelling for social change.

Over the past two decades, Actors Playground has cultivated a culture where students feel safe, supported, and artistically challenged. “When a student truly feels supported, not just by their teacher, but by their classmates as well, their self-esteem will be strengthened,” says Colombino. “That’s when their work will skyrocket.”

A Legacy of Artistic Training and Personal Growth

Taught by working actors and educators with advanced theatre degrees, the Playground’s curriculum spans a wide range of acting styles and techniques. The school’s mission is to build confidence, encourage creativity, and inspire discovery. What sets it apart is its unwavering support outside the classroom: students receive free one-on-one coaching, including taping sessions for auditions and college prescreens – an unprecedented offering in performing arts education.

This commitment has paid off. Alumni have been accepted into every top-tier theater conservatory, including ten currently enrolled at Rutgers University’s prestigious Mason Gross School of the Arts. Notable students include Shea Grant, starring as Claudia in Stranger Things on Broadway, and Ryan Buggle, who has been playing Noah Benson on Law & Order SVU for eight years. 

Theatre With a Mission: From Stage to Social Change

Actors Playground is also home to the Playground Theatre Project (PTP) – a socially conscious ensemble of student leaders who tour the country performing powerful original plays about pressing social issues, including bullying, racism, mental health, and violence. Their critically acclaimed piece Lost Angels has run for ten years and remains a poignant catalyst for conversation and healing among young audiences.

Following one recent performance at a teen wellness conference, Lanette Mantle, Adolescent Health/Suicide Prevention Program Manager, said: “Many kids said they finally understood what they were going through and wanted to know how to get help. This play gave them the words.”

The youngest branch of this mission-driven theatre work is the Mini Misfits, a peer-led troupe of elementary-aged performers delivering an anti-bullying message to young students across the region. With 15 years of performances and the distinction of being the youngest social issue theater company in the world, they embody the Playground’s ethos of using art to make the world better.

A Place to Belong

Actors Playground isn’t just a school – it’s a sanctuary. Countless testimonials from parents and students echo the same sentiment: here, young artists find family, confidence, acceptance, and purpose. Students return week after week, year after year, not just to train, but to belong.

“It’s not just a place where my son could study his craft, hone his skills, and feed his passion,” said one parent. “It’s a place where he could feel safe, encouraged, and cared for. AP ROCKS!”

Looking Ahead

As the Playground celebrates 20 years of creative excellence, its mission remains unchanged: to provide unmatched theater training in a nurturing environment, to empower students to reach their potential, and to use theatre as a force for good.

Here’s to the next 20 years—and to every student who walks through the doors ready to take a risk, tell their story, and find their voice.

ENDS

Cannes, France. April 28th 2025 – THE FRNTAL, a globally recognized PR and talent management agency, is poised to make a grand return to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival with its highly anticipated Red Carpet Hub, taking place from May 13 to May 23, 2025, at the iconic JW Marriott Hotel. This exclusive space will serve as a vital networking and event destination for industry professionals, filmmakers, influencers, and media, amplifying the festival’s global prestige.

This year, THE FRNTAL continues to build on its reputation for bringing luxury and entertainment together with its key partners, including NARS (Shiseido Group), Balmain Hair, and EAUde1974. 

The agency’s Red Carpet Hub will feature an impressive array of events, activations, and high-profile brand engagements, merging entertainment, fashion, and beauty in one exclusive setting.

Shery Lunardi, Founder and Director of THE FRNTAL, expressed her excitement about the upcoming event: “The Cannes Film Festival is where the world’s most influential figures in cinema and culture gather. Our Red Carpet Hub is designed to foster invaluable connections and unforgettable moments, ensuring our clients shine on this global stage. We are proud to create a space that unites industry leaders and gives our partners a platform to showcase their exceptional work.”

The exclusive Red Carpet Hub at the JW Marriott Hotel will be a key gathering place for invited guests, top-tier industry partners, and media representatives. Highlights include:

As a central location for press interactions, media coverage, and exclusive access, the Red Carpet Hub has become synonymous with the Cannes Film Festival’s allure. THE FRNTAL’s continued commitment to curating sophisticated, high-impact events ensures that its clients maintain their prominence and visibility during one of the world’s most celebrated cultural events.

The collaboration with luxury brands such as NARS, Balmain Hair, and EAUde1974 further elevates the Red Carpet Hub’s status as a space of creativity, luxury, and influential conversations, strengthening THE FRNTAL’s standing at the crossroads of entertainment, fashion, and beauty.

About THE FRNTAL

THE FRNTAL is a renowned international PR and talent management agency specializing in elevating the careers of high-profile clients across a diverse array of industries. Known for its strategic approach to public relations, celebrity management, and brand development, THE FRNTAL crafts tailored campaigns that drive visibility, forge impactful partnerships, and create lasting legacies for its clients. The agency’s services span talent management, media outreach, influencer engagement, and entertainment consulting, ensuring that its clients stand out in a competitive global marketplace.

At THE FRNTAL, the mission is clear: to build enduring legacies for clients, ensuring their success in the entertainment industry and beyond. For more information on services, collaborations, and upcoming events, visit www.thefrntal.com.

ENDS

Stoke on Trent, UK. April 11th 2025 – DesignBundles.net, the digital marketplace for crafters, graphic designers and businesses, has now launched a new service to help “solve frustrations” in the custom print market. 

DesignBundles.net, which is known for serving over a million creative professionals and crafters worldwide, aims to enable small businesses, hobbyists, and makers the ability to create professional quality printed products with DTFPrinter, offering custom made goods including t-shirts, mugs, tumblers, and hoodies. 

Laura Lambert, Marketing Head at DesignBundles.net, commented on the launch of this new online destination saying: “We’re proud to offer a smarter, easier, creator-friendly way to bring our customers’ designs to life. We wanted to create a way to solve the frustrations we saw in the custom print space—long waits, clunky machines, and confusing design setups.” 

The US-based company ensures reliable service and support, while eliminating international shipping risks and delays.

With no minimum order, the service only requires customers to have a heat press or household iron, eliminating the need for expensive equipment. 

One of the key appeals of the new platform is its accessibility for both beginners and experienced creators. It removes barriers associated with traditional custom print methods, making it easier for users to experiment or scale their product offerings without significant investment.

Additional features of the new custom print platform include a Smart Gangsheet Builder, automatically nesting uploaded content for maximum print efficiency and cost saving as well as fast production and shipping times, with most orders being shipped same day or the day after and offering premium DTF & UV DTF quality for full color transfers and a longer lasting final product that transfers quickly for both fabrics and hard surfaces. 

This approach allows makers to maintain creative control while relying on streamlined tools and quick turnaround times. With this move, DesignBundles.net is expanding its support for the  custom print demand by offering a service that bridges the gap between digital design and physical product creation. 

ENDS 

London, UK. April 2025 – THE FRNTAL has announced a strategic expansion into new global markets, responding to increasing demand for narrative-focused brand leadership and elite representation. 

To fuel this global growth, the agency is strategically expanding into key markets, establishing a new headquarters in Dubai alongside its established offices in Los Angeles and London, and offering elite, story-driven representation for high-profile talent and brands. Known for its work with high-profile individuals across entertainment, business, and culture, THE FRNTAL is positioning itself as a premier global partner for celebrities, creators, and corporate entities navigating visibility and legacy.

The expansion is rooted in THE FRNTAL’s distinct approach to representation, blending high-level talent management with culturally relevant branding strategies and curated public relations. Since its inception, the agency has served an elite roster of actors, musicians, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Now, with increased global demand and a shifting cultural landscape, THE FRNTAL’s team is scaling its services to deliver even greater impact across borders.

“Our mission has always been to support our clients with strategy and substance,” said Shery Lunardi, Founder and Director. “This expansion marks an important milestone in our ability to serve talent and brands on a global scale, with the same individualized, intentional approach that defines everything we do at THE FRNTAL.

Global Expansion Backed by Elevated Service Model

THE FRNTAL’s expanded operations will introduce a new slate of service enhancements designed for clients requiring next-level access and brand control in international markets. These enhancements include international brand partnerships, multilingual campaign development, cross-market media placements, and VIP access to global cultural events. The expansion also includes the onboarding of regional liaisons and strategic consultants in key cultural capitals to better serve clients in US, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

The agency’s service model remains rooted in six primary areas:

This framework enables the agency to offer bespoke strategies tailored to clients’ public personas, while ensuring they remain aligned with evolving media narratives and brand standards.

A Hybrid Approach to Fame and Business

Under Shery Lunardi’s leadership, THE FRNTAL has pioneered a hybrid model that merges public relations, business strategy, and reputation management. Unlike traditional agencies, the firm’s offerings are built around the idea that fame, brand equity, and business success are deeply interconnected.

Clients of THE FRNTAL benefit from a tailored approach to visibility—where reputation is protected, brand voice is carefully shaped, and exposure is driven by story and intention. The firm operates discreetly behind some of the industry’s most impactful personal brands, orchestrating campaigns, negotiating partnerships, and building narratives that endure beyond media cycles.

“Visibility is not enough in today’s climate,” Lunardi said. “The real value lies in positioning. Who you are, how you show up, and how you’re remembered matters more now than ever.”

Aligning Celebrity with Culture

With global media shifting rapidly and influencer saturation challenging audience trust, THE FRNTAL focuses on aligning celebrity with culture. The agency’s campaigns are designed to do more than increase impressions—they’re meant to build meaningful identity across media, business, and lifestyle ecosystems.

By maintaining relationships with global editors, industry leaders, event producers, and brand executives, THE FRNTAL places its clients at the right intersections—on red carpets, magazine covers, and strategic brand collaborations. Through calculated exposure and narrative refinement, the agency ensures clients build not only fame, but influence that lasts.

Industry Momentum and Future Outlook

As part of its ongoing growth, THE FRNTAL will introduce private client divisions focusing on discreet advisory services for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, legacy-building for family brands, and thought leadership development for executives transitioning into public-facing roles. This initiative supports the agency’s belief that visibility should serve a greater purpose: to advance business, personal values, and cultural legacy.

The firm’s continued innovation has earned recognition within the entertainment, fashion, and business spheres. THE FRNTAL’s growing influence has positioned it as an essential partner for clients navigating both personal evolution and public relevance.

With new offices and team integrations across multiple regions, Shery Lunardi’s vision remains clear. “We’re building something that extends beyond campaigns or headlines,” she said. “We’re creating architecture for influence—custom-built for every individual or brand we represent.”

ENDS

RHODE ISLAND, USA. March 12th, 2025 – FunLand Radio is thrilled to announce that beloved on-air personality Tony Jones will be moving to a new time slot, taking over afternoons from 2 to 6 PM CST.

Starting on Monday, March 17th, listeners can enjoy Tony’s signature energy and engaging content every weekday as they wind down their day.

Since joining Fun Land Radio in 2022 as a weekend host, Tony Jones has built a dedicated weekend following while entertaining audiences with a mix of great music.

His move to the coveted afternoon slot marks an exciting new chapter for Tony, the station, and its loyal listeners.

“I couldn’t be more excited to connect with our amazing FunLand Radio audience every afternoon,” said Tony Jones. “Weekends have been incredible for me, but now I get to bring the fun every weekday and keep the energy going as people head home from work”

In addition to his new weekday show on FunLand Radio, Tony Jones also hosts a Saturday morning program on 101.1 FM WBRU-LP Providence (Brown Student and Community Radio) which highlights the best in local (New England) music, giving a platform to emerging and established artists from Rhode Island, and around the region.

Also, Listeners who can’t get enough of Tony can also check out his Tony Jones Show and Tony Jones in The Morning podcast archive, available on Spotify, iHeart, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube Covering a mix of music, culture, and engaging discussions, his podcasts continue to reach audiences beyond the airwaves.

FunLand Radio, known for its dynamic programming and commitment to providing top-notch entertainment, believes this change will enhance the listening experience for its audience. The station is confident that Tony Jones will bring an extra layer of excitement the afternoon.

“Tony Jones has been an integral part of our station since 2022, and we’re beyond excited to have him take on this new role,” said FunLand Radio Program Tony Raven. “His charisma and connection with listeners make him the perfect fit for afternoons, and we know our audience will love this move.”

Listeners can tune-in to the FunLand Radio online stream at FunLandRadio.com, or via the FunLand Radio App to catch Tony Jones live from 2 to 6 PM CST every weekday.

For more information, visit funlandradio.com or follow FunLand Radio on social media.

ENDS

NEW YORK, NY. November 21st – Legal counsel Zanete Bukarte has been appointed to the Junior Board of the World Monuments Fund (WMF), a leading international non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding the world’s most treasured places. Bukarte, who has been an active supporter of WMF as a member of its International Council, will now take on a new role helping to advance the organization’s mission to protect irreplaceable cultural heritage worldwide.

Since its founding in 1965 in New York City, WMF has conserved more than 700 sites in over 100 countries, raised over $300 million to support preservation efforts, and empowered more than 1,000 members of local communities to sustainably protect their heritage.

Bukarte, an accomplished legal professional, has long been dedicated to cultural advocacy. During her time on WMF’s International Council, she organized highly regarded events in partnership with institutions such as Sotheby’s and the Colnaghi Foundation, raising awareness and vital funds for the charity’s initiatives. Her ability to blend professional expertise with a deep passion for cultural preservation has made her a key supporter of WMF’s work.

“I am thrilled to accept the invitation to join the Junior Board of the World Monuments Fund,” Bukarte said. “Having worked closely with WMF since the beginning of 2023, I have witnessed the extraordinary impact of its work. Coming from a family and culture with a deep commitment to built heritage and craftsmanship, it is an honor to contribute further to the preservation of this global mission.”

Bukarte’s appointment underscores the organization’s commitment to engaging dynamic, young leaders who bring fresh perspectives and skills to the cause of heritage conservation.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA. 29th October, 2024 – Ahnya O’Riordan (The Life List, Sinking Spring) has joined the cast of Chicago Med for Season 10 in a top of show guest starring role.

Ahnya will portray Sylvie Joseph, a pregnant high school girl whose story line brings attention to the impact of social and cultural factors on teen pregnancy. She will make her debut in the 6th episode ‘Forget Me Not’ airing November 6, 2024.

Ahnya got her start as a child commercial actress and print model. Later earning her spot as a singer and dancer in Kidz Bop, an American children’s music group that produces family-friendly covers of pop songs and related media. Other famous alumni from Kidz Bop include the likes of Zendaya, Olivia Holt and Becky G.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of Chicago Med, a show that has captivated audiences with its blend of medical drama and human stories,” said O’Riordan. “Collaborating with this incredible cast and crew has been an amazing experience, and I can’t wait for viewers to see what’s in store.”

Season 10 of Chicago Med continues to follow the challenges faced by doctors, nurses, and staff as they navigate the complexities of healthcare and personal lives. O’Riordan’s appearance will bring fresh energy and unexpected drama to the series, adding to its legacy of gripping storytelling.

Chicago Med is currently airing its 10th Season, which will consist of 22 episodes. Allen MacDonald is the executive producer and showrunner for season 10. Chicago Med is produced by Universal Television and Wolf Entertainment.

Ahnya is an up-and-coming young talent represented by Innovative Artists. Along with her pivotal guest star role on Chicago Med, look for her in the soon-to -be released Netflix film, The Life List starring Connie Britton and Sofia Carson.

The Chicago Med episode featuring Ahnya O’Riordan will air Wednesday Nov. 6th, 2024 on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock the following day.

Tune in to catch O’Riordan’s guest appearance in what promises to be one of the season’s standout episodes.

For more information about Ahnya O’Riordan, follow her on Instagram @ahnyaoriordan or imdb.me/ahnyaoriordan .

NEW YORK, NY, USA. October 17th, 2024 – Having worked at the highest levels of classical music and opera artist management on the international stage for over 40 years, Intermusica is delighted to announce the launch of its new US-based subsidiary, Intermusica Inc. which will trade as Intermusica New York.

Situated on Columbus Circle, in close proximity to New York’s premier cultural centers, Intermusica New York aims to enhance the company’s presence across North America and foster closer relationships with US and Canadian artists, ensembles, and venues.

As part of this expansion, Intermusica New York has integrated the New York-based boutique agency Wittenberg Artists, whose founder, Martin Wittenberg, will lead the growth of the new company as its Director, reporting to Intermusica’s Founder and Chief Executive, Stephen Lumsden and Joint Head of Artist Management, Aimee Chow, with additional strategic guidance from Intermusica’s Non-Executive Chair, Deborah Borda. Also joining the company will be Associate Artist Manager, Rachel Feldhaus.

Announcing the launch from the Intermusica New York offices, Stephen Lumsden said: “The North American market continues to be of great importance to Intermusica, and we see a tremendous opportunity to expand upon our success in growing international careers in the US and Canada with a new permanent base in New York.

“While we have had a strong presence in North America for many years, this new venture, headed up by Martin Wittenberg, will be invaluable to us in extending and deepening our relationships with promoters across the continent, sharing on-the-ground knowledge, and discovering and supporting the greatest of talents on both sides of the Atlantic, working closely with leading orchestras, opera houses, concert halls, festivals and creative partners generally.”

The New York team will work closely with the parent company to maintain a cohesive global strategy, tailoring their offer to the unique needs of the North American market, and exploring opportunities for creative partnerships across the Atlantic in both directions.  

Watch Stephen Lumsden, Martin Wittenberg and Aimee Chow speak further about the vision for Intermusica New York on YouTube.

ENDS

BRAINTREE, UK. October 16th, 2024 – Art of the Motherland proudly presents “Resonance,” the first solo exhibition by emerging Ghanaian artist Isaac Ako Sowa. The exhibition, which will be held online from 17 February to 13 April 2025, invites audiences to explore the cultural, historical, and symbolic narratives at the core of Sowa’s work.

Inspired by the profound lecture delivered by His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, King of the Ashanti Kingdom, at the British Museum on 19th July 2024, Sowa’s exhibition explores themes of identity, heritage, and the enduring legacy of Ashanti artefacts. 

These artefacts, many of which were taken during colonial conflicts, hold significant cultural value for the Ashanti people, serving as symbols of resilience and sovereignty. Otumfuo’s speech highlighted the importance of these treasures in fostering a shared understanding between cultures, and Sowa’s work brings this message to life.

Through “Resonance,” Sowa not only celebrates the preservation of these artefacts but also engages with the conversations they continue to inspire about repatriation, cultural stewardship, and the intersection of past and present. This online exhibition offers a unique platform for reflection, allowing audiences worldwide to connect with the rich history and heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom.

Isaac Ako Sowa, known for his evocative exploration of cultural narratives, continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, inviting viewers to engage deeply with the stories behind his work. His pieces resonate with the ongoing global dialogue surrounding the custodial care of artefacts and their role in shaping contemporary identity.

Isaac Ako Sowa said: “I’ve always been captivated by the stories embedded in our cultural heritage. Through Resonance, I hope to honour the Ashanti Kingdom’s legacy and spark conversations about identity, history, and the value of preserving our collective past for future generations.”

Title: Resonance: A Solo Exhibition by Isaac Ako Sowa

Dates: 17 February 2025 – 13 April 2025

Venue: Online at www.artofthemotherland.com

Admission: Free