Welcome to The Seattle Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Seattle cybersecurity startup raises $60 million, makes acquisition

• Upcoming Seattle Mariners match

• A deep-dive into the life of Mark Tobey

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Don’t waste your time chasing butterflies. Mend your garden, and the butterflies will come.”

–Mario Quintana

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which Seattle museum is dedicated to showcasing the works of science fiction and pop culture, featuring exhibits from iconic movies and literature?

A) The Seattle Art Museum

B) The Museum of Flight

C) The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

D) The Burke Museum

Answer to Week 32's Trivia:

The name of the Seattle ferry system, the largest in the U.S., providing services to both local islands and the Olympic Peninsula, is C) Washington State Ferries.

News

💼 Business

Seattle Reign founders land buyer for distinctive Medina home. (Link)

Trump cites opportunity zones as a triumph, but their success is middling. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Seahawks WR JSN among top candidates for second-year surge. (Link)

Mariners claim reliever off waivers from AL West rival. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Seattle cybersecurity startup raises $60 million, makes acquisition. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ New York Mets at Seattle Mariners
T-Mobile Park, Seattle
Friday, August 9 to Sunday, August 11, 2024 | (More info)

⚾ San Francisco Giants at Seattle Mariners
T-Mobile Park, Seattle
Friday, August 23 and Saturday, August 24, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Tinariwen
Showbox CD, Seattle
Friday, August 9, 2024 | (More info)

🎵 Don Omar
WAMU Theater, Seattle
Saturday, August 10, 2024 | (More info)

Family Friendly events:

🎶 12th Avenue Square Park Free 'Live Music Thursday' Summer Concerts
564 12th Avenue, Seattle
Thursday, August 8, 2024 | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Seattle where traditional and digital art forms merge in public spaces” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Seattle Historical Events

Seattle Freeze (Cultural Phenomenon) - Refers to the perceived coldness or standoffishness of the city's residents.

The Seattle Freeze refers to a cultural phenomenon unique to the Emerald City, where newcomers and even long-term residents often speak of a certain level of social iciness or aloofness among its inhabitants. Despite Seattle's vibrant coffee culture, bustling tech scene, and stunning natural surroundings—all elements that might suggest a warm, welcoming community—the city is paradoxically notorious for its chilly interpersonal relationships. The term captures the perceived difficulty many people face when trying to infiltrate established social circles, make new friends, or even engage in casual conversations with strangers.

This phenomenon is not entirely understood, but several theories attempt to explain why the Seattle Freeze might occur. Some suggest that the city's rainy and gloomy weather contributes to a generally more introspective and less outgoing demeanor among its residents. Others point to the tech-driven economy, where many individuals, absorbed in their work and online communities, might find less value or comfort in face-to-face interactions. Moreover, Seattle's rapid growth has brought in a surge of newcomers, each potentially exacerbating the Freeze by sticking to their cliques or social media rather than engaging with their real-world neighbors.

Navigating the Seattle Freeze requires persistence and a willingness to dive into the city's myriad communal activities. Joining clubs, volunteering, and attending numerous events centered around hobbies or interests can be gateways to warmer interactions. Seattleites are passionate about a wide range of issues and activities from environmental conservation and hiking to tech meetups and indie music creating ample opportunity for genuine connections. Once the initial barriers are crossed, many find that the city's residents are as engaged and warm-hearted as any others. The Seattle Freeze, then, may initially come off as a cold shoulder, but it ultimately reveals itself as a test of tenacity in pursuit of community and belonging.

Famous People From Seattle

Mark Tobey (1890–1976

Mark Tobey, an influential American painter, played a pivotal role in the development of abstract expressionism through his unique style that intertwined Eastern mysticism with Western artistic traditions. His contributions to the art world, particularly as a leading figure of the Northwest School of visionary art, underscore his legacy as a bridge between diverse cultures and philosophies.

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings (1890–1911)

Born in Centerville, Wisconsin, in 1890, Mark Tobey was drawn to art from a young age. His early life was marked by a keen interest in painting, which led him to move to Chicago in 1906. There, he attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, immersing himself in the world of art and starting down the path that would define his career.

Venture into Abstraction (1912–1930)

After moving to New York City, Tobey worked as a fashion illustrator and later served in the United States Army during World War I. Post-war, he returned to New York, and his art gradually shifted towards abstraction. This period was crucial in his development as an artist, laying the foundation for his later works.

Discovery of Eastern Mysticism (1931–1940)

The 1930s were transformative years for Tobey. His interest in Eastern philosophies and mysticism deepened after converting to the Bahá'í Faith, which profoundly influenced his artistic direction. Tobey’s paintings began to reflect a blend of spiritual motifs and abstract designs, drawing upon the rich traditions of East Asian calligraphy and European modernism.

The Seattle Connection (1941–1950)

Tobey moved to Seattle in 1944, finding the city to be a place of immense artistic inspiration and a supportive community for his work. Seattle's lush landscapes and vibrant cultural scene deeply impacted Tobey, leading him to create some of his most significant works. His time in the city solidified his reputation as a central figure in the Northwest School.

Rise to International Recognition (1951–1960)

The 1950s marked the height of Tobey's career, culminating in his winning the International Prize at the Venice Biennale in 1958. His signature style, known as white writing complex, calligraphic brushwork layered over abstract backgrounds garnered global acclaim, establishing him as a pioneering force in abstract expressionism.

Exploration of Cityscapes (1961–1970)

Tobey's later works often featured intricate, cityscape-inspired compositions reflecting his interpretation of modern urban life. These paintings, though still abstract, hinted at the bustling energy and interconnectedness of city living, showcasing Tobey’s continued evolution as an artist.

Legacy and Influence (1971–1976)

Until his death in 1976, Tobey continued to paint and influence the art world. His dedication to exploring the spiritual dimensions of art left an indelible mark on future generations of artists. Tobey’s approach to abstraction influenced not only the Northwest School but also the broader trajectory of American modern art.

Retrospective Celebrations and Posthumous Recognition (1976 and Beyond)

Following his death, Tobey’s work has been celebrated in numerous retrospectives, cementing his legacy as a master of modern art. Institutions around the world, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Museum of Modern Art, have recognized his contributions to the development of abstract expressionism.

Key Achievements of Mark Tobey:

• Pioneered the white writing style, combining abstract expressionism with Eastern calligraphic traditions.

• Played a central role in the development of the Northwest School of art.

• Won the International Prize at the Venice Biennale in 1958.

• His work is featured in major museums worldwide, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.

Mark Tobey's journey from Midwestern America to global recognition as a visionary artist illustrates the profound impact of cultural synthesis on modern art. By integrating Eastern mysticism with Western artistic practices, Tobey not only redefined abstraction but also bridged disparate worlds through his ethereal compositions. His legacy as a pivotal figure in the Northwest School and an ambassador of intercultural dialogue endures, inspiring artists and art lovers alike.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Poll