19: Turning Pages on Art, Design, and Innovation

In this edition of The Bassport, we’re diving into the creative pulse of 2025. From Rick Owens turning a carry-on into a bronze masterpiece to Alex Face’s graffiti that bridges art and social consciousness, this issue is packed with stories that inspire. We’re also exploring the latest in travel tech with ChatGPT’s new booking tool, celebrating Leica’s century-long legacy, and breaking down an easy way to get into vinyl. Whether it’s design, culture, or life’s small moments, there’s something here for everyone.

• Message from Jason C. Bass

• Rick Owens Turns RIMOWA’s Cabin Bag into a Statement Piece

• The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the U.S.

• ChatGPT’s New “Operator” Tool Just Leveled Up Travel

• Vinyl Made Easy: The Mixx Analog System 5

• Leica M11: Celebrating 100 Years in Style

• Featured Artist: Alex Face

Message from Jason C. Bass

Does January feel endless, or is it just me? Somewhere between Jan 58th and today (yes, it’s still the 27th), this month has managed to pack in all the feels. It’s been a whirlwind start to 2025, and honestly, I’ve been leaning into the small moments—catching up with family, savoring quiet time, and just pressing pause whenever I can.

How’s your January treating you? Hope you’ve found your own way to reset.

Looking ahead, I’m planning to expand what we cover here at The Bassport. Along with travel, hospitality, and tech, expect some fresh takes on style, home goods, and family life. If that sounds like your vibe—or even if it doesn’t—let me know! Your thoughts and feedback are always welcome.

Thanks for riding along,
Jason

Rick Owens Turns RIMOWA’s Cabin Bag into a Statement Piece

If anyone can take a carry-on bag and turn it into art, it’s Rick Owens. For his collaboration with German luggage brand RIMOWA, Owens has reimagined their iconic silver aluminum suitcase into a bronzed sculpture.

Using a manual pigment application process, the bags now sport an aged, dark bronze finish, with no two pieces exactly alike. It’s rugged, luxurious, and totally Owens.

Catch the first glimpse at this year’s Fall/Winter Paris show or explore the details here:
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The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the U.S.

From California’s Sierra Nevadas to Florida’s sun-drenched coasts, the U.S. is a living mood board of stunning landscapes. Think fiery canyons, misty river valleys, and hidden barrier islands.

This guide breaks down the most breathtaking spot in every state. Totally subjective, of course—but you can’t say it won’t spark some wanderlust.

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ChatGPT’s New “Operator” Tool Just Leveled Up Travel

Booking hotels, snagging dinner reservations, or scoring event tickets just got way easier. OpenAI’s latest digital assistant, Operator, can handle all of this for you—like a personal concierge in your pocket.

What’s wild? It works autonomously in a remote browser, completing bookings and searches while you multitask. With travel partners like Booking.com, Uber, and Tripadvisor already onboard, this might change how we plan trips forever.

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Vinyl Made Easy: The Mixx Analog System 5

Thinking of diving into the vinyl life? This British audio brand’s Mixx Analog System 5 makes it simple without compromising sound quality.

The package pairs an entry-level turntable with compact powered speakers, giving you a clean, traditional vinyl setup that’s a major upgrade from those all-in-one players. Affordable, stylish, and perfect for a starter kit.

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Leica M11: Celebrating 100 Years in Style

A century of Leica cameras deserves a moment—and the M11 100 Years edition nails it. This special release keeps the guts of the standard digital rangefinder but adds a glossy black paint finish, silver chrome accents, and a sleek, logo-free aesthetic.

Each edition will pay tribute to a city, with just 100 units per location (New York’s drops in May). If you’re a collector, this is a grail piece.

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Featured Artist: Alex Face

Bangkok’s streets tell a story, and Alex Face (aka Patcharapol Tangruen) is one of its most compelling narrators. With a background in architecture and a deep connection to the city’s abandoned spaces, Alex creates thought-provoking graffiti featuring his signature character: a disillusioned baby with a third eye, often dressed in animal costumes.

The character, inspired by his daughter’s serious expression at birth, reflects his musings on the world she’s inheriting. With its mix of whimsy, social commentary, and spiritual symbolism, his work bridges gaps between art, culture, and the human experience.

Explore more of Alex Face’s world:
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Thank you!