Holiday Harmony

The Youth for Youth Holiday Concert Shines Bright in Las Vegas

By Laura Henkel

The holidays are a time for community, compassion and celebration, and few events embody this spirit better than the Youth for Youth Holiday Concert. Held on Saturday, Dec. 14, at Clark High School, the annual fundraiser organized by 17-year-old Roxy Jones and her younger sister Skai brought together music lovers and philanthropists alike for an afternoon of joy, talent and generosity.

Founded by Roxy and co-chaired by Skai, the Youth for Youth Holiday Concert allows young musicians to showcase their talents while raising funds for underserved youth in Las Vegas. Over the past three years, the sisters have raised close to $100,000 for local causes. This year’s proceeds will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada, addressing critical needs such as gym air conditioning and the Forgotten Song Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to the next generation of artists, musicians and dancers.

The program embodied the enthusiasm of youth, the cheerfulness of bright futures, and the comforting reminder that goodness can start at any age. Attendees were treated to a stunning display of youthful artistry with all of the musicians, except Roxy’s piano teacher Natalya Panchenko, under 17.

Charles and Jun Hong, 13-year-old twin brothers, performed a lively piano performance of “Linus and Lucy.” Their energy was infectious, with attendees smiling broadly, refraining from dancing in the aisles only out of decorum.

Oboe player Alexander Vakov, a 17-year-old prodigy set to join Roxy at Yale University in fall 2025, joined her on stage for beautiful piano and oboe duets that mesmerized the audience. Skai also took the stage, performing Tchaikovsky’s “Canzonetta” Andante on the violin with grace and poise, further demonstrating the incredible talent of the performers.

Each performance, from cherished melodies to classical masterpieces, brought the audience deeper into the holiday spirit. The student musicians’ dedication and artistry filled the auditorium with a sense of wonder and joy, reminding everyone of the power of music to connect and uplift.

The event also hosted a raffle with an impressive array of prizes. In addition to Chic Compass magazine, generous contributions from The Killers, Vic’s Las Vegas, Allegiant Airlines, Anne Fontaine, the Nevada Ballet Theatre, Cashman Photo Enterprises and Hyatt Place, among others, ensured something was exciting for everyone. These contributions reflected the strong community support for the concert and its mission.

The event’s success greatly benefits Roxy and Skai’s vision and commitment. Inspired by her summer internship with the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada as a Bank of America student leader, Roxy shifted the concert’s focus this year to address local needs. “This event is about more than just music,” Roxy shared. “It’s about creating opportunities for kids who need them the most and using our talents to make a difference.”

A highlight of the afternoon was a surprise video message from Clark High School alumnus Jimmy Kimmel, who encouraged attendees to “give, give, give” and congratulated Roxy on her acceptance to Yale University on a full scholarship. Emcee Stacey Gualandi kept the audience energized with her vibrant personality and fun outfit changes, ensuring the event was as entertaining as it was inspiring.

The concert concluded on a high note, with Skai expressing their hopes to expand the event in the years to come. “Knowing that we’re making a difference for kids in our community makes all the hard work worthwhile,” she said. The event left attendees feeling good about life, hope and the power of community. Indeed, the Youth for Youth Holiday Concert has grown into a cherished holiday tradition, blending artistry and altruism to embody the season’s true spirit.

For those who missed this year’s event, there’s no need to wait until next December to get involved. Visit the Youth for Youth Holiday Concert website to learn more and support this inspiring initiative. As the event evolves, one thing is clear: the Youth for Youth Holiday Concert isn’t just spreading holiday cheer—it’s building a brighter future for Las Vegas youth.

Neal Portnoy: Las Vegas’ Most Treasured Art Ambassador

By Laura Henkel

Walking into Neal Portnoy’s 3,200-square-foot gallery is like stepping into a living masterpiece, where vibrant energy and meticulous detail merge to create an unforgettable artistic experience. The space is a sanctuary for art lovers, filled with works that transcend their medium and elevate felt-tip markers to a level of sophistication rarely seen.

Portnoy’s creations have earned him reverence among celebrities, politicians, athletes, music icons and collectors alike, but interacting with the artist himself only deepens his appreciation for his talent. Not only will you leave his gallery happy, but you’ll also smile whenever you think of Portnoy, treasuring his work and infectious personality.

A Master of Precision and Expression

Portnoy’s signature style blends humor, precision and emotional depth. Armed with over 5,000 felt-tip markers, he creates illustrations with life and technical brilliance. His ability to layer colors and manipulate tones transforms this humble medium into a tool capable of extraordinary depth and vibrancy.

What’s most remarkable is how Portnoy’s felt-tip marker work achieves a realism that feels almost impossible. His art’s textures, details and lifelike energy are so grounded and vivid that viewers often marvel at how such precision and emotion can emerge from such an unconventional medium.

His work extends beyond Las Vegas, as he frequently creates portraits for clients nationwide. These aren’t caricatures in the lampooning sense but beautifully rendered works that feel light, airy and pure. Whether preserving the essence of a celebrated individual, a family or a special event, Portnoy’s portraits are timeless treasures. If you’ve been considering commissioning him, don’t hesitate—you’ll own a piece of art that is truly one of a kind.

The Sublime Intersection of Talent and Connection

No matter who Portnoy captures, his subjects are often just as eager to meet him as they are to see their completed portraits. His ability to create deeply personal and meaningful art leaves a lasting impression.

Interacting with Portnoy only enhances this experience. His warmth, humor and genuine interest in people shine through, making every interaction memorable. Not only will you leave his gallery happy, but you’ll treasure the art and the artist who created it.

This deep connection extends beyond individuals to the city itself. Portnoy’s work is a tribute to the spirit of Las Vegas, immortalizing its landmarks, icons and the people who make it extraordinary.

A Love Letter to Las Vegas: Honoring Its Icons and Change-Makers

Portnoy’s work is a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of Las Vegas. Through his art, he captures the landmarks, icons and people who make the city the world’s entertainment capital. From architectural masterpieces like the Tropicana and Stardust to the change-makers shaping the city’s culture, his art preserves a moment in time with unparalleled skill and respect.

Portnoy reimagines mid-century Las Vegas landmarks in his architectural series with a bold, vibrant style that evokes nostalgia while celebrating their lasting influence. His depiction of the Tropicana radiates sophistication, while his portrayal of the Sands captures the cool elegance of the Rat Pack era. These works create vivid memories for those who lived through the city’s golden age and form meaningful connections for those experiencing them anew.

Equally compelling are his portraits of the people who elevate Las Vegas. Performers, leaders and visionaries are immortalized with a unique blend of lightness and precision that captures their essence. These portraits go beyond physical likeness to reflect personality, spirit and energy, celebrating the individuals who define Las Vegas’ culture and legacy.

A Visionary Artist Beyond Compare

On his drawing board, surrounded by meticulously organized markers, Portnoy turns simple tools into instruments of profound artistry. His gallery is more than a showcase; it’s a testament to the power of art to inspire, connect and transform. From capturing the people and landmarks of Las Vegas to creating cherished portraits for clients across the country, Portnoy’s work transcends its medium and leaves an indelible mark.

To quote Ed Foster, a master photographer and former college art professor: “What Neal Portnoy does, in the medium in which he does it… is like a ballerina, trying to dance on a trampoline.” Foster’s words perfectly capture the daring and grace of Portnoy’s artistry.

Portnoy is more than an artist; he’s a storyteller, a cultural treasure and an ideal ambassador for Las Vegas’ artistic soul. His work doesn’t just hang on walls—it lives in the hearts of those who experience it. To explore

Portnoy’s breathtaking creations or commission a piece of your own, visit portnoygallery.com.

 

Wonderhussy: Lighting Up the Desert with Adventure, Humor and Heart

By Laura Henkel

As an art aficionado, I’m drawn to people who boldly live life on their own terms, embracing curiosity, creativity and a sense of adventure. Sarah Jane Woodall, better known as Wonderhussy, exemplifies these traits. With humor as her compass and an endless thirst for discovery, she uncovers life’s most unconventional corners. Whether discovering a remote hot spring, exploring a forgotten ghost town or unraveling untold histories, she captivates her audience with fearless authenticity and a radiant sense of wonder.

The Birth of Wonderhussy

Long before becoming a YouTube sensation, Wonderhussy was born out of her determination to break free from creative limitations. While working for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, she contributed to their After Dark guide, chronicling adult-themed Vegas. Yet her features often clashed with the publication’s conservative limits, leaving her censored and creatively stifled.

In 2008, she launched Wonderhussy.com, a platform where she could write without restrictions. The name Wonderhussy embodied her irreverent humor, independence and bold individuality. What began as a personal outlet grew into a vibrant storytelling hub, attracting an audience drawn to her honesty, wit and distinctive voice.

From Las Vegas to the Great Basin

After more than two decades in Las Vegas—a city built on constant reinvention—her curiosity led her to the untamed beauty beyond the Strip. In 2016, visiting an abandoned brothel sparked a fascination with Nevada’s hidden treasures, such as expansive landscapes, quirky landmarks and forgotten histories scattered across the Great Basin and Range.

With a camera in hand and a knack for seeing the extraordinary in the overlooked, Wonderhussy evolved into a fearless explorer and documentarian. Her journey from city life to desert adventurer brought her—and her loyal viewers—to some of Nevada’s most remote and awe-inspiring locations.

Her artistic eye and playful spirit shine in moments like her now-iconic pose atop a retired fighter jet in the desert. Dressed in vibrant pink, she transforms forgotten relics into striking visuals, bridging the past with her bold, modern energy.

Immersive Adventures

Wonderhussy’s travels are more than simple journeys. She reveals a world many might overlook, from secluded hot springs tucked into canyons to forgotten mining towns.

Her gift for storytelling turns each destination into a living character. Abandoned towns, relics of bygone eras and roadside oddities come alive in her narratives. She brings a unique blend of research, humor and creativity to every adventure, captivating audiences with her vibrant curiosity.

Wonderhussy as a True Artist

Wonderhussy isn’t just an adventurer—she’s an artist who captures the humanity and beauty hidden in forgotten places. Her work goes beyond exploration, offering fresh perspectives on the value of imperfection and history.

As a nudist at heart, her comfort with her natural self infuses her work with a layer of unfiltered authenticity. While her content remains playful and PG-13, her approach is sincere and free of pretense, resonating with viewers who value individuality and objective truth. She reminds us that life’s imperfections and quirks often hold its greatest treasures.

Supporting Causes with Creativity

Beyond exploration, Wonderhussy uses her platform to make a difference. From raising funds for the Southern Inyo Fire Protection District in Tecopa, California, to championing sustainable practices in fragile environments, her work often serves a purpose larger than entertainment.

One unforgettable moment while supporting a nonprofit’s fundraiser was when she dressed in full showgirl attire, complete with feathers and sequins, posing with the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. With characteristic humor, she “powered” the sign using a cord attached to a cleverly placed electrical outlet on her costume. This whimsical stunt showcased her playful spirit and dedication to blending fun with purpose.

Why Wonderhussy Matters

Wonderhussy is a beacon of unapologetic creativity in a world that often stifles individuality. She inspires curiosity, breathes life into forgotten histories and reminds us that adventure awaits in the most unexpected places.

For those feeling trapped by routines or hesitant to explore, Wonderhussy offers a fresh perspective: the world is rich with surprises if you’re willing to look. Whether lighting up Las Vegas with humor or uncovering the quiet magic of a desert sunrise, she invites us to embrace life’s unexpected joys.

Wonderhussy isn’t just a persona—she’s a force of nature. With curiosity, laughter and an open heart, she challenges us to see the beauty in the unconventional and to celebrate the world’s quirks, one adventure at a time.

Follow Wonderhussy on YouTube to join her adventures and discover the hidden wonders of the West.

Mario Basner: Redefining the Boundaries of Photography and Emotion

By Laura Henkel

Mario Basner’s photography offers a chance to pause, reflect and feel in a world flooded with imagery. Basner’s work invites viewers to engage with art on a deep personal level, encouraging emotional connections that linger long after the experience. “Surrounding ourselves with meaningful stimulation is more important today than ever before,” Basner explains. “My artworks encourage an extraordinary emotional connection and create a space your soul can call home.”

Basner’s work is far more than visual documentation. Its storytelling is the most powerful. His multi-award-winning photographs are renowned for their unparalleled depth and immersive quality. These images command attention—not through spectacle but through their ability to evoke memory, introspection and wonder. His art has found a place in private collections around the globe and has been featured in prestigious exhibitions, including the Venice Art Biennale.

Basner Fine Art, a gallery in the heart of Las Vegas, has become a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. Since its opening in 2017, the gallery has offered a uniquely immersive experience, earning acclaim from critics and visitors alike. Spanning 3,700 square feet, the gallery’s thematic exhibitions explore new perspectives on traditional subjects, allowing viewers to lose themselves in narratives that blend the past with the present. This dedication to innovation and storytelling earned Basner’s gallery the Best Art Gallery award in the Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Best of Las Vegas poll for six consecutive years.

Born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1968, Basner’s journey to artistic acclaim is as unconventional as inspiring. Before discovering his passion for photography, Basner spent over two decades as a professional musician, performing in renowned productions like “Cats,” ” The Lion King,” and ” Mamma Mia!” This background in music gave him an innate sense of rhythm and storytelling, qualities that now infuse his photographic work. Basner’s transformation into a visual artist began in Los Angeles in 2002, where he ran a boutique darkroom and honed his technical expertise.

However, it wasn’t until 2013, during a visit to the historic Beelitz Heilstätten in Germany, that Basner truly found his artistic voice. His hauntingly beautiful photographs of the abandoned site became the World Heritage Collection, earning 78 international awards and catapulting him to global recognition.

Basner’s artistry continues to evolve, with recent projects exploring the emotive power of historic libraries. These cultural sanctuaries come alive through his lens, each image radiating the quiet grandeur of spaces where knowledge and inspiration converge. His ability to infuse architectural subjects with such emotional resonance sets his work apart, offering viewers a glimpse of a place and an experience of its essence.

In 2019, Basner represented Las Vegas on the international stage at the Venice Art Biennale. His participation in the “Personal Structures” exhibition highlighted his ability to bridge local and global perspectives, bringing attention to the vibrant art scene in his adopted city.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Basner is also deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of creative talent. The Mario Basner Passion Project Fund, established in partnership with UNLV’s College of Fine Arts, provides students with financial support and mentorship. This innovative program empowers students to explore projects of profound personal meaning, fostering self-discovery and helping them find their creative voice. By integrating the program into UNLV’s curriculum, Basner has impacted the educational journey of emerging photographers.

Visiting Basner’s gallery is a transformative experience. His large-scale works are visually stunning and emotionally immersive, inviting viewers to step into the stories behind the images. His photography’s interplay of light, texture and depth blurs the line between reality and imagination, offering every visitor a personal journey.

Basner’s legacy is one of innovation, passion and purpose. Through his art, he challenges us to see the world—and ourselves—in new ways. His work stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, proving that photography can be more than a visual medium; it can be a gateway to the soul.

Claire Nagel: Where Home Meets Heart

By Laura Henkel

Claire Nagel is more than just a realtor. She’s a trusted advisor, confidant and lifelong friend to many clients. For her, real estate is far more than a transaction; it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with the people she serves, ensuring every client feels supported and valued.

Whether helping a first-time buyer navigate the complexities of purchasing a home or matching a seasoned luxury buyer with the perfect multi-million-dollar property, Nagel exceeds expectations. Her secret? She makes every interaction personal, creating experiences that are as enjoyable as they are effective.

It’s fitting that the name Claire, derived from the French word meaning “bright” and “clear,” so perfectly reflects her personality. Originally from London, she has lived and worked in some of the world’s most dynamic cities, including Málaga, Miami, New York City and Los Angeles. In 2005, she found her permanent home in Las Vegas.

Nagel’s professional foundation was built in the hospitality industry, where she managed high-profile restaurants, hotels and entertainment venues.

Her experience creating extraordinary guest experiences later translated into real estate when she launched her career in 2015. Today, as part of Sotheby’s International Realty, she combines her hospitality background with the unmatched resources of a global brand, offering clients white-glove service and access to some of the best marketing tools in the industry.

Clients consistently praise her for her expertise, warmth and unrelenting dedication. She has a knack for making every client feel like her only client, often forming bonds that extend well beyond closing day. One first-time homebuyer shared how she guided them through the process with patience and care, ensuring they felt confident at every step. Another client, searching for a luxury estate, recalled how her attention to detail and proactive approach secured their dream home before it hit the market.

What makes Nagel truly exceptional is her ability to connect with people. She doesn’t see her work as helping clients buy or sell properties but as an opportunity to improve lives and create lasting relationships. Her vast knowledge of Las Vegas and approachable nature make her the go-to realtor for anyone looking to settle in this vibrant city.

When she’s not working with clients, Nagel embraces her adventurous spirit by traveling the globe. She has visited over 30 countries and 27 states and deeply appreciates food, wine and culture. Whether enjoying tapas in Spain, discovering new vintages in France and Italy or exploring a hidden gem closer to home, Nagel brings the same enthusiasm to her travels as she does to her career.

Music has also played a significant role in her life. Her early career in London’s entertainment scene nurtured her love for an eclectic range of sounds. At home, she enjoys hiking, practicing yoga and savoring the company of friends over a glass of wine. Her positivity and zest for life are infectious, inspiring everyone around her to live more fully.

Nagel represents the perfect blend of professionalism and approachability. Her connection to Sotheby’s International Realty provides her clients with world-class resources, but her genuine care and personal touch leave a lasting impression. In every sense of the word, she brings heart to the journey of finding home.

The Poetic Glow: Leticia Maldonado’s Illuminated Sculptures

By Laura Henkel

Leticia Maldonado’s luminous sculptures redefine neon as a medium of introspection and storytelling. Drawing from her dual roots in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, she weaves stories of identity, resilience and impermanence, transforming light into profound narratives. By blending personal experiences with precise craftsmanship, Maldonado has established herself as a powerful voice in contemporary neon art.

Crafting a Visual Vocabulary of Resilience

Maldonado’s fascination with the “violent elegance” of plants—shaped by survival and adaptation—informs much of her work. She pairs this raw vitality with a love for books and symbols of personal power, crafting a visual language that fosters connection and creative disruption. Her works encourage self-reflection, integrity and independence while inviting viewers to explore their own stories through her art.

Electric Hustlers: A Neon Masterpiece

In “Electric Hustlers,” Maldonado presents two life-sized showgirl figures: one seated and reflective, the other standing before a glowing mirror. The seated figure, acquired by The Neon Museum for its permanent collection, exudes quiet contemplation and emotional depth. Roger Thomas, chairperson of The Neon Museum Collections Committee, praised it as “a wonderful 21st-century expression of Las Vegas neon tradition, but completely original in concept and drawing style.”

Crafted with 8mm and 10mm neon tubing illuminated by argon and mercury gases, the seated figure’s introspective posture contrasts with neon’s traditional association with spectacle. The standing figure, gazing toward a glowing blue vertical line, evokes themes of performance and self-reflection. The two showgirls embody the tension between outward persona and internal truth. Danny Corey’s documentary “Las Vegas Bender” also captured the creative process behind this work and its cultural impact, adding another layer of depth to its story.

Roses for Monsters: A New Meditation on Impermanence

In “Roses for Monsters,” Maldonado juxtaposes a shattered stained-glass face with vibrant neon roses at its base, now exhibited at Bermudez Projects in Los Angeles. Using vivid reds, blues and yellows alongside Krypton gas and drops of mercury, the piece conveys resilience and transformation. Maldonado reflects, “Sometimes it’s okay to lay your best roses at the feet of horror and just keep walking.” The glowing roses, symbols of strength and survival, stand defiantly in the face of destruction.

This 36 x 15 ¼ x 8 ¼-inch sculpture is meticulously crafted with materials such as bronze mirrored plexiglass, wood, paint, mica flakes and 8mm glass tubing in vibrant shades of clear, emerald, cobalt, red, Novial gold and citrus. The piece exemplifies Maldonado’s ability to fuse technical mastery with profound emotional narratives, inviting viewers to contemplate impermanence and the quiet strength required to endure.

Her mastery of neon goes beyond individual pieces, extending into a broader engagement with artistic communities and cultural narratives.

Rooted in Craft and Community

Maldonado’s background in figurative illustration and storytelling informs her ability to craft narratives through neon. Her studies at The Art Institute of Las Vegas and the Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art laid the foundation for her technical precision, later refined under neon masters Lili Lakich and Michael Flechtner. Since 2013, she has worked with illuminated glass, utilizing the smallest diameter glass tubing to achieve the intricate detail that defines her expressive works.

Beyond her studio, Maldonado has been pivotal in reshaping neon as a fine art medium. As a member of She Bends, a collective of female-identifying neon artists, she champions collaboration and equity within the craft. Her participation in “Construyendo Puentes,” a traveling exhibition of Chicano artists, deepened her exploration of cultural hybridity and identity, themes that resonate strongly throughout her work.

Why Her Work Resonates

Maldonado’s art taps into universal experiences—identity, transformation and survival—while remaining deeply personal. Pieces like “Electric Hustlers” and “Roses for Monsters” invite viewers to reflect on their emotions and resilience. Thomas’s praise aptly captures the essence of her work: “It is completely original in concept and drawing style.”

Through her luminous sculptures, Maldonado redefines neon as a medium of emotional depth and storytelling. Her works inspire quiet reflection and bold defiance, illuminating physical spaces and the complexities of the human experience. Each glowing creation invites viewers to connect with their narratives, offering a luminous reminder that resilience, impermanence and transformation are not just art themes but fundamental truths of the human experience.

Explore Maldonado’s luminous creations on her website and follow her artistic journey on Instagram at @leticiamaria.

Unveiling Chic Compass’s Celebrity Edition at Rita Deanin Abbey Museum

By Laura Henkel / Photography by Jaime Lim, Liquid Star Photography

Las Vegas’s vibrant arts and culture scene sparkled with sophistication as Chic Compass magazine celebrated the release of its newest edition at the stunning Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum. Aptly titled “An Autumn Sojourn,” the event brought together a lively crowd of creatives, tastemakers and cultural enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening featuring Jason Gould, the magazine’s cover star.

Themed “Lights, Camera, Action! – The Celebrity Edition,” this milestone 20th issue of Chic Compass highlights individuals whose artistry and achievements transcend their industries. The launch event, set amidst the serene beauty of the museum, embodied the elegance and creative energy of the magazine’s latest edition. Guests mingled in a space that reflected Rita Deanin Abbey’s artistic legacy, creating the perfect backdrop for the evening’s festivities.

Photography by Jaime Lim, Liquid Star Photography

Attendees enjoyed an exclusive meet-and-greet with Gould, a celebrated actor, singer and filmmaker. His feature story offers readers an intimate look at his journey, creative inspirations and exciting upcoming projects.

Publisher Ann Parenti set the tone for the night with her evocative words: “Under the unending sky of this desert, it was a one-of-a-kind evening, surrounded by the stunning art of the museum and an inspiring gathering of contributors, influencers and remarkable guests from our past and present cover stories.”

Laura Sanders, the museum’s executive director, captured the collaborative spirit of the evening, stating: “Partnering with Chic Compass to celebrate such extraordinary individuals at the museum exemplifies our mission to not only support our community but to inspire it, honoring Rita’s enduring passion for arts and culture.”

While the event celebrated Gould’s contributions, the spotlight wasn’t solely on him. This celebrity-packed edition of Chic Compass offers a treasure trove of content, brimming with exclusive interviews and captivating features. Readers can explore conversations with luminaries such as Mayor Carolyn Goodman, actor Rob Morrow, enigmatic magician Shin Lim and fashion historian Karan Feder.

Photography by Jaime Lim, Liquid Star Photography

Feder’s award-winning book, “Barbie Takes the Catwalk: A Style Icon’s History in Fashion,” delves into the intersection of culture, history and iconic style. Other highlights include the expertise of art advisor John Barry and Robert Dolan of Cashman Photo Enterprises, whose legendary lens has captured the essence of Las Vegas’s vibrancy for decades.

This issue features local gems and iconic destinations, adding variety. Food enthusiasts will delight in exploring Mae Daly’s, a restaurant redefining the Las Vegas dining scene with its innovative approach to cuisine. Meanwhile, those seeking luxury can immerse themselves in the grandeur of Fontainebleau Las Vegas, a world-class resort poised to elevate the city’s reputation for luxury.

Fashion lovers will revel in David Tupaz’s chic designs, a testament to his unwavering vision for style and elegance. Chic Compass also delivers heartwarming stories, with Stacey Gualandi delving into the life of author and food columnist Pascale Beale and offering insights from Sue Lowden, the powerhouse behind Vic’s Las Vegas. For history buffs, Elaine and Scott Harris provide a fascinating insider’s look at the legendary Hotel del Coronado, weaving past and present with captivating detail.

Photography by Jaime Lim, Liquid Star Photography

What truly sets Chic Compass apart is its commitment to celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Las Vegas and beyond. Like this one, each event embodies celebrity allure and excitement while fostering a sense of community and inspiration.

For those who attended the launch, “An Autumn Sojourn” was more than just an event—it was an experience showcasing the magazine’s dedication to excellence. From the stunning venue and exclusive guests to the compelling content featured in the magazine, the night was a reminder of the magic that happens when creativity and community converge.

This latest issue offers readers a front-row seat to Las Vegas’s thriving arts and culture scene. It invites them to immerse themselves in a world where inspiration and innovation collide. Don’t miss your chance to grab a copy of Issue 20 – The Celebrity Edition and experience the brilliance of Chic Compass—your guide to the stories and people shaping our cultural landscape.

Photography by Jaime Lim, Liquid Star Photography

Photography by Sheryl Aronson, Sasa Photos

Renata Bosnjak: A Transcendent Voice in Contemporary Art

By Laura Henkel

Renata Bosnjak’s artistry is a stunning fusion of emotion, intuition and technique, offering viewers a powerful connection to the heart of her subjects. A self-taught artist, Bosnjak begins each painting with the eyes—the gateway to the soul. The eyes aren’t merely her starting point; they anchor her work, radiating life and emotion. Of all the eyes she paints, the most captivating might be her own, reflected subtly back to the viewer through the energy of her canvases.

Much like Michelangelo’s sculptures of enslaved people, seemingly yearning to break free from their marble confines, Bosnjak’s canvases guide her hand, revealing figures that feel alive and deeply human. Her creative process is organic and unfiltered—she allows the canvas to speak, creating vibrant, raw and emotionally resonant works. Once completed, her pieces remain untouched, preserving the integrity of her original inspiration.

Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1976, Bosnjak’s love for art began at seven with her first painting, a girl holding a dog. Stories of her Austrian-German grandfather’s artistic spirit influenced her journey, creating a lasting connection to her family’s creative legacy. Over time, her work has evolved into a reflection of universal themes, such as love, faith, motherhood and resilience.

Her career has garnered international acclaim, with exhibitions at prestigious venues like Laguna Art Gallery and New York Art and solo exhibitions at Vienna’s renowned Gallery Steiner. Among her numerous accolades, Bosnjak has received the Frida Kahlo International Prize and the International Prize of New York City. Renee Phillips of Manhattan Arts International described her art as “imbued with a life-affirming presence” and noted her mastery of Old Master techniques, enhanced by a contemporary emotional resonance.

What sets Bosnjak apart is her profound connection to her craft. She doesn’t impose her vision on the canvas; instead, she listens, coaxing each subject to life. This connection is most evident in her eyes, always her starting point. They act as a window not only into her subjects but also into her soul, bridging the gap between artist and viewer in an extraordinary way.

Bosnjak’s current solo exhibition, “Renata Bosnjak: Portraits of Life,” is on display at the Summerlin Library through Jan. 14. This exhibition showcases her ability to capture life’s most profound emotions and moments, offering visitors a chance to engage with art that stirs the soul and inspires reflection.

Bosnjak’s work is more than visual; it’s a deeply emotional experience. Her paintings invite viewers to step closer, to see beyond the surface and to connect with the universal truths that bind us all. If you’re seeking art that leaves a lasting impression, “Renata Bosnjak: Portraits of Life” is an exhibition not to be missed.

View Bosnjak’s artwork at www.renatabosnjak.com and follow her on Instagram.

Champion of Culture

Darren Johnson’s Lasting Impact on Las Vegas Art

By Laura Henkel

Darren Johnson, gallery services manager for the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District (LVCCLD), has played a pivotal role in shaping Clark County’s cultural landscape. Over the past nine years, Johnson has overseen the management and installation of approximately 80 exhibits annually, collaborating with over 400 artists. His leadership has expanded the district’s permanent collection and made the library’s gallery spaces accessible across 12 branches, including 15 dedicated gallery locations. Under his guidance, the LVCCLD has become a beacon of cultural engagement.

Alongside his dedicated assistant, Bee Aspinall, Johnson manages gallery programming, the district’s art collection, artist talks, workshops and unique events like fashion shows and even pro-wrestling in The Studio. This creative range demonstrates his ability to engage the community innovatively and inclusively. Together, they form an unstoppable team, elevating the district’s cultural offerings to new heights and ensuring the programming reflects diverse heritage and interests.

Johnson’s curatorial work has elevated the LVCCLD’s galleries, earning numerous “Best Of” awards highlighting art’s importance in the community. The galleries offer consistent hours and serve as cultural hubs in various neighborhoods, making art accessible regardless of age, background, or experience.

Johnson’s curatorial style emphasizes diversity and inclusion. He focuses on acquiring works that resonate with others while reflecting Nevada and the Southwest’s broader cultural and historical context. His eye for talent has provided countless local artists a platform to showcase their work to a larger audience. Johnson views the permanent collection as a “living entity that evolves with the community.”

One cornerstone of the LVCCLD’s gallery offerings is the Sahara West Library, once home to the Las Vegas Art Museum. Continuing the legacy established by leaders like Libby Lumpkin, Johnson has maintained this space as a world-class cultural venue, frequently hosting high-profile exhibitions that draw significant public attention.

Beyond his work as a curator, Johnson is also a highly accomplished artist. He specializes in oil painting and captures subtle nuances of human emotion and connection, often focusing on intimate, everyday moments. The community highly anticipates his rare exhibitions, offering a personal yet universally accessible artistic voice. Over the years, Johnson has installed over 700 exhibits, transforming the district’s galleries into spaces where art can thrive and showcase diverse creative expressions. His commitment to the arts, both through his administrative role and personal artistry, has made him a vital figure in the cultural landscape of Nevada.

One of Johnson’s most notable public art projects, Zap!, reflects his dedication to community-oriented art. Sponsored by Clark County Parks and Recreation and Historic West Las Vegas, Johnson transformed utility boxes into vibrant canvases celebrating local culture and history. One box featured a portrait of Sarann Knight-Preddy, a civil rights activist and Nevada’s first Black woman to own a casino. Johnson recalls how Preddy, even in her 90s, was deeply engaged in her work, attending events and guiding him in selecting the perfect portrait. This project brought art into everyday spaces and fostered meaningful connections to the area’s history. Although some boxes from Zap 3 no longer remain, two can still be found on the Historic Westside.

Johnson’s contributions to public art continue with projects such as Zap 5 at Desert Breeze Park, where he painted dinosaurs on electrical boxes, merging playful imagery with public spaces. Much like his curatorial work, these projects showcase his ability to bring art to unexpected places, making it accessible to everyone. He occasionally exhibits his exquisite paintings at galleries. If you ever have the opportunity to see his work, it is highly recommended—you won’t be disappointed.

Though he downplays his achievements, Johnson’s work with the LVCCLD, his public art projects and his personal paintings have left an indelible mark on the community. His ability to balance public service with personal creativity reflects the breadth of his talent and his deep commitment to the people of Clark County.

In essence, Johnson is more than a curator—he’s a cultural steward who continually seeks ways to uplift the community through art. His work ensures that the LVCCLD remains a cornerstone of cultural engagement, offering artistic experiences that resonate with people from all walks of life. If you hear someone say there’s no great art in Las Vegas, direct them to one of Johnson’s exhibitions at the library—or to the rare occasions when he exhibits his work. Sometimes, it takes an artist to fully support the arts in a way that’s truly larger than life.