VUE

Brian Kovener Co-Founder Brian@vuenj.com I nstagram has been around since the beginning of human history. Not the platform of course, since the technology didn't exist. Neither did human language, which would have made for some pretty outrageous captions. What I mean is the concept of visual storytelling. Visual storytelling can provide a deep understanding of history as a way to capture moments in time. is could be a letter, poem or perhaps your high school yearbook. e first artwork that depicts a story happened over 40,000 years ago on a cave wall. While no one knows the exact interpretation, the paintings feature a group of hunters bravely hunting down pigs and buffalo. e tale of the "hunter and the hunted" - the first narrative. Stories that we tell have evolved, but one element of storytelling has remained constant - our search is for meaning and for hope. Above all else, we look for a happy ending. Now, more than ever, that seems to be something we all crave. Our team here at VUE is constantly on the search for great stories to tell. us, it was no accident that we had the opportunity to connect with Wally Koval and his wife, Amanda. ey are the founders of the uber-famous site "Accidentally Wes Anderson." We've been a huge fan of their work for many years, along with their over one-million followers. What follows in these pages is one of my favorite interviews we've ever conducted. e key to any great story is a fascinating backstory. Our goal has always been to provide an incredible visual experience, taking great pride and care in the photos and imagery we use in these pages. However, the words we use to describe and tell the backstory are paramount. Which is why it's necessary to provide every experience from a first-hand perspective. Here in our Summer issue, we dive into how "Accidental Wes Anderson" became an intentional success. We'll sit down with the COO of Hacker- Cra Boat Company, which has been handcraing wooden boats for over 100 years. I had the chance to ride aboard one in Lake George and it was the smoothest journey I've ever taken on water. We also sat down with the owners of e Butcher's Block, one of the hottest and trendiest restaurants on the Jersey Shore. I learned a great deal in the making of this issue. Some of the stories I thought I knew, I rediscovered in a different light. Everyone is different and we all have different perspectives. As Mark Twain once said, "whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect." From the entire team at VUE we hope you have an incredible Summer! A Note From the Co-Founder V U E N J . C O M 24

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