Episode 19: Saffron Crocs & Eyeball Burns

In this episode of Curated by Chance, Neal and Lauren start with a spirited discussion about wardrobe mishaps, a whirlwind trip to Washington, D.C., and the energy of exploring monuments on scooters in freezing weather.

Neal takes us back to 1975 with a cinematic masterpiece that’s part art history, part technical marvel: Barry Lyndon. Highlighting Stanley Kubrick’s obsession with natural light, NASA lenses, and meticulous historical detail, Neal reveals why this film is like walking into an 18th-century painting. Along the way, we hear about the film’s production challenges, its groundbreaking cinematography, and why it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves movies and museums.

Lauren shines a spotlight on the trailblazing artist Alma Thomas, who defied the odds to create vibrant, abstract works in her later years. From her time as a teacher to her rise as a celebrated painter, Lauren explores Thomas’s colorful legacy, including her role in the March on Washington and her history-making exhibition at the Whitney. Her story is a testament to how life is long, full of possibilities, and brimming with second (or third!) acts.

Stay tuned for updates from their Patreon and a special sneak peek at an upcoming exhibition Lauren is helping to host in 2025. You’ll walk away inspired to create, explore, and appreciate the beauty of art and film.

PROMPTS: Flower, Saffron, 1970s

Neal's Topic:

Barry Lyndon (1975)

Watch the film here

Cinematography Deep Dive

Lauren's Topic:

Alma Thomas

Learn More About The Work

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