The Bulletin #7

THE RECORD

THE CONVINCER / Nick Lowe (2001)

Nick Lowe's 2001 album offers the quintessential portrait of his third act, showcasing sincerity, maturity, and a fascination with the spaces where musical genres intersect. Beneath Lowe's pre-Beatles songwriting craft, his band simmers with the understated heat of Memphis soul.

Take a quick glance at the cover: staring straight at the camera, with a wry grin, Lowe appears clean-cut, grey, and effortlessly dapper. The rock’n’roll ruffian has become a debonair charmer—and The Convincer reflects just that. Its minimalist production brings out the refined precision of each song.

There are no unnecessary elements here—only what’s essential to bring the music to life. It’s a quiet joy to listen to. Over 20 years later, the opening track "Homewrecker" still ranks among our all-time favorites. Highly recommended.

THE EXHIBITION

BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL / Faith Ringgold (January 31st – July 2nd)

Faith Ringgold has been a major figure in American engagé and feminist art. Her work bridges the rich heritage of the Harlem Renaissance with the contemporary African-American art scene. Through her reinterpretations of modern art history, she creates a visual, critical dialogue with early 20th-century movements.

Born in New York City in 1930, she expresses her revolutionary vision of Black Power through a bold, innovative use of color theory and technique. Merging modernity with vernacular traditions, text, and image, she has developed a deeply original practice—one that continues to inspire a new generation of artists.

This is her first retrospective in Paris, held at the Musée Picasso until July 2nd. Absolutely worth a visit if you’re in town. Bonus: it’s just a couple of blocks from the Serica Boutique—so no excuse not to come say hi!

Musée Picasso

5 rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris

THE BOOK

JAPANESE DESIGN / Patricia J. Graham (2014)

While Japanese aesthetics are often easy to admire, understanding their deeper roots and the concepts behind their unique beauty can be more elusive. In this book, Patricia J. Graham offers clear, accessible explanations that provide context and meaning, helping readers grasp the intuitive and emotional appeal of Japanese sensibility.

Through a mix of insightful commentary and over 160 stunning photographs, the author walks us through ten key elements of Japanese design. She explores how visual qualities, along with the spiritual influences of Buddhism and Shinto, have shaped these refined arts—where craftsmanship and simplicity reign supreme.

THE MOVIE

LE CLAN DES SICILIENS / Henri Verneuil (1969)

Le Clan des Siciliens is undoubtedly one of the slickest French crime thrillers of the 1960s—a true casting masterstroke that unites the holy trinity of French tough guys. Jean Gabin shines as the gangster patriarch, paving the way for Brando’s Don Corleone just two years later. Lino Ventura nails the role of the no-nonsense law enforcer—stern, stoic, and seemingly trained at the Harry Callahan school of charm. And then there’s Alain Delon, once again impeccable as the cold-blooded, trench-coated killer he embodied so memorably in Le Samouraï.

Now add to this unbeatable cast the unforgettable score by Ennio Morricone, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and razor-sharp editing, and it becomes clear why Le Clan des Siciliens remains a timeless classic of French cinema—one worth rewatching every few years.