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A R T S | T R AV E L | FA S H I O N | C U LT U R E | I N T E R I O R S | C A R S | L E I S U R E | E C O N O M I C S

A N E W E X PE R I E NC E BE YON D LU X U RY

I S S U E N.16

VILLA A SE STA

C HOPA R D FOL I E

POLO CLUB

R REED D CCA AR RP PEETT

T H E MON T E CA R L O GA L A GLOBAL OCEAN

H E DGE F U N D S & HOL LY WOOD CCH HA AM MEELLEEO ON NM MA AR RKE KETTSS

LOU JA I N A DA DA J U F FA L I T H E T RU E GL A M OF L J

1 76 8.

In the conquest of the oc ean s, e v e ry m i n u t e c ou n t s.

Tossed about on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean a corvette sailing ship belonging to the King of France, heads for Santo Domingo. On board are two marine chronometers created

by Swiss watchmaking genius, Ferdinand Berthoud. Helping to calculate longitude to the nearest half-degree, these timepieces would guarantee the success of this 12-month expedition on the high seas. The era of great scientific

exploration is born. Two and a half centuries after this feat, the timepieces of Chronométrie FERDINAND BERTHOUD live on, in a contemporary interpretation of these extraordinarily precise measuring instruments. The Chronometer FERDINAND BERTHOUD FB1 in white gold was awarded the “Aiguille d’Or” by the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève 2016.

Chronometer FB 1.4-1

L E C H R O N O M É T R I E R D E S E X P L O R AT E U R S ferdinandberthoud.ch GENEVA, LUCERNE, ZURICH Les Ambassadeurs · DUBAI Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons · GERMANY Wempe PARIS Dubail · SINGAPORE Sincere Fine Watches · TOKYO Yoshida

E D I T O R’ S L E T T E R

D

ear Friends,

The Monte Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean was a tremendous success raising funds for this important charity. HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco is in fact the global leader in the fight to save the Ocean.

Reports back from Coachella and Burning Man, along with the stunning images, tempt us to attend next year.

Welcome to our Winter edition of Ccercle Magazine.

Demands on the high street and retail in general continue with experience being heralded now as the new luxury. Still the luxury market continues to be buoyant as we seek solace in beautiful things.

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome Liana Avarova who, from the next edition of Ccercle onwards, will be taking over as Editor in Chief. Safia el Malqui will be joining us as our new fashion editor.

Our front cover star for this edition is the beautiful Loujain Adada Juffali, who gives us an insight into her fascinating life.

Our contributors report back from their various travels around the world including Anya Labonville on her trip to Bali. A birthday present to herself and her first visit to Asia this proved to be a truly magical destination.

I myself was delighted to be able to attend the New York Times’ International Luxury Conference in Hong Kong, which provided some great insights into what’s next for China, India and the West, as well as exploring several other industry related topics. A key point noted here for me were the three pillars of luxury, namely, health, time and experience.

We also have reports back from some of the world’s most glamorous events including The Cannes Film Festival, Milan Fashion Week, Coachella, The Venice Film Festival, The Monaco Yacht Show, Burning Man, Frieze New York and Frieze London.

Simon Piggott’s Diary of the Monaco Yacht Show is a good read with many of our friends and members in attendance.

Our In Conversation With feature in this edition is on Jean Manuel Rozan, the financier turned co-founder of Qwant, the French search engine that respects your privacy and does not steal your data.

My Vision of Life focuses on Peter and Aletta Stas, the husband and wife team who together founded the successful watch brand Frederique Constant. Peter tells us where he sees the luxury watch market heading in the future.

We speak to Italian aristocrat and wine maker Gelasio Gaetani D’Aragona Lovatelli. As well as being a mem-

We look at the long and illustrious history between Chopard and the Cannes Film Festival. They have been partners in this event since 1998. As well as crafting the Palme d’or, Chopard also make all the trophies handed out at the prize-giving ceremony, adorn the stars for the traditional “Montee des Marches” and organize several events including their annual world-renowned festival party.

ber of one of the oldest aristocratic families in Italy, whose history includes several Popes, Gelasio has been described as one of the greatest wine experts in the world.

Caroline Von Krockow writes on “The Heydays of Marie Antoinette” although a much-maligned historical figure Caroline paints a picture of another side to Marie Antoinette, that of a fun loving young girl somewhat unprepared for the life she was thrown into.

Gemy Kim reports back from the Financial Times’ Luxury Summit in Venice. She notes that while the worldwide trend of political uncertainty continues people are still buying and the luxury market continues to grow.

Catherine McQueen interviews Richard Hains, the hedge fund manager turned Hollywood film producer on the similarities and differences between the financial services industry and the entertainment industry. He provides us with some interesting insights into both. His critically acclaimed book Chameleon is now in development to become a movie.

We showcase some beautiful photographs from the Golden Era of Hollywood by the renowned photographer Frank Worth. The beautiful images show old school Hollywood Glamour at its best. Frank was one of the photographers who took some of the first photographs of Marylin Monroe as she arrived on the Hollywood scene.

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Giving a different take on the Cannes Film Festival we have Monella Kaplan looking at what it takes to get into Cannes and “who can in Cannes”. She found that there are three distinct groups operating at the festival, The Festival Crowd, being the group of thespian celebrities and directors promoting their selected film on the red carpet and at press conferences, The Marche Crowd comprising business people, sales agents and buyers focused on selling and acquiring films and The Luxury Crowd, namely the fashion and jewellery magnates, accompanied by beautiful models, who throw the lavish parties.

As well as Cannes other Film Festivals that we look at in this edition are Venice and Zurich. This year they all showcase an interesting and diverse selection of films, highlighting the changing times that we are living in.

Looking at young talent in music and the performing Arts Leona Konig’s charity put on their second concert “Golden Note” at the Brahms Saal of the Musikverein of Vienna. Nine highly talented violinists between the ages of 8 and 15 years old were chosen to perform.

We hope that you find this edition of our magazine both entertaining and inspiring. Enjoy,

G ABRIELE SALVADOR I Fo unde r & Edito r-in -Ch ief

AT H I NA

The Cleopatra Bracelet In rose gold with rose cut diamonds

CONTENTS

MY FAVOURITES Loujain Adada Juffali

10

JEW EL LERY

Chopard Folie

18

CIN EM A

Who Can in Cannes, Venice and Zurich

22

MY VIS IO N O F L IF E

Aletta & Peter Stas

32

BUS IN ES S

FT Business of Luxury Summit

36

ES SAY

Hedge Funds and Hollywood

40

S O CIETY

The Heydays of Marie Antoinette Worth Exposing Hollywood

44 48

ART

Frieze New York and London

52

YACH TS

Monaco Yacht Show

58

CARS

Glamours of Maserati

62

FAS H IO N

Highlights of Milan and London FW

66

ARIS TO CRACY

Gelasio Gaetani D’Aragona Lovatellli

78

EVENT

Coachella Burning Man P OLO Villa a Sesta Polo Club

86 89 102

IN CO NVERSATIO N W ITH

Jean-Manuel Rozan

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E d itorial co o rdinato r: Cathe rine M c Q ue e n Fo r a d ve r t is in g p le a s e co nt ac t: N adya.Ars e k ina@c c e rc le .co m | + 4 4 ( 0) 7985 3 4 2 2 4 6 Publisher Ccercle Ltd ® 5 Vigo Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 3HB, UK Ccercle is a ® Registered Trademark. Printing in whole or in part is expressly forbidden without written permission from the publisher.

The publisher declines any responsibility for manuscripts and photos sent directly.

The views expressed in the magazine are those of the contributors and are not necessarily shared by the magazine. © 2018 - Ccercle Ltd ®. All right reserved.

Print: Petrilli Group S.r.l - Italy Print run: 20.000 copies Follow us on Twitter @ccercle, Instagram @ccercle & Facebook

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M Y F AV O U R I T E S

L oujain A dada Juffali Everything starts with a dream

Cover photo: Chopard necklace and earrings from the Haute Joaillerie Collection set in white gold featuring diamonds EARLY LIFE To begin with I come from a simple background and family. I am originally and proudly Lebanese. I was born in California and spent a few years of my childhood there before my family moved back to Lebanon. I love my country so much and I always feel like there’s something so strong about it that always brings me back there no matter where I am in the world. My early years of schooling began in The States then continued in Beirut.

I have always been a dreamer and I believe in positive energy. From being mentally determined to physically active and keeping myself busy. This has stayed with me since my childhood and has grown, helping me to know exactly what I want. I have great interest in fashion, photography, sports, traveling, music and planning events. Now it’s about creating a beautiful childhood for my two daughters and teaching them the right habits at a very young age.

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Chopard ladies earrings from the Temptations Collection set in white gold featuring diamonds, tourmalines and pink quartz

M Y F AV O U R I T E S

Chopard bracelet from the Haute Joaillerie Collection featuring diamonds set in white gold

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M Y F AV O U R I T E S

WORKING IN MEDIA At the age of 14 I did my first magazine advertisement shoot. It was a

ing behind the lens. However I couldn’t stay too long in both roles as

beauty ad whilst I was still in school. It was a big thing for me then and

then I got married and decided to shelve my career and build a family

I could still remember how all my friends, classmates and family were

with my late husband. However that short period in television gave me

talking about it and got their own copy. That made me so happy and it

great exposure in the Middle East and was a fantastic experience. One

further grew my interest in photography.

of my biggest dreams in my childhood was to be either a TV producer or an actress, and if it were in music I now feel so motivated in learning

After graduation, I took a few courses in fashion design and that made

how to DJ professionally.

me learn so much about the world of creating, designing and developing. Fashion design takes a lot of imagination, consistency and perseverance.

‘What we learn with pleasure we never forget’, ALFRED MERCIER.

THE FUTURE

In the meantime I was getting a lot of modeling offers for beauty and

I tend not to think about the future so much but just live each day as it

fashion ads but not for runways, as I was not tall enough. At the age of

comes. The best way I guess is to create it, stay positive, work hard and

21 I got my first TV presenting offer to host a program about music on

then make it happen. Social media now has become as important as

MTV Lebanon. The name of the program was Energy Spin Magazine,

television.

which talked about music. It was a turning point and the start of building my own career. I was then asked to host another TV reality program,

I definitely miss having my own career and if I ever consider returning

which was live everyday with a group of other young presenters. Of

to TV it would have to be something that I am truly passionate about

course I had to study it and learn the proper way of presenting and host

and share.

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M Y F AV O U R I T E S

Chopard earrings from the Precious Chopard Collection featuring diamonds and rubies, set in white gold

Chopard sautoir from the Haute Joaillerie Collection set in platinum featuring diamonds

Chopard ring from the Precious Chopard Collection featuring diamonds and rubies set in white gold

Chopard bracelet from the Haute Joaillerie Collection featuring diamonds set in white gold 17

M Y F AV O U R I T E S

Chopard sautoir from the Haute Joaillerie Collection set in white gold featuring diamonds Chopard ring from the Haute Joaillerie Collection featuring diamonds and emeralds set in white gold Chopard watch from the Precious Chopard Collection featuring a diamond and emerald dial and bezel set in white gold on an emerald green alligator strap 14

M Y F AV O U R I T E S

I believe there is a time for everything in our life. At this stage I’m a fully dedicated mother for my two lovely daughters and that is what is most important for me now. Most of my time is spent on family duties, responsibilities and simply being a mom!

PRIORITIES I guess as so many other parents their children’s well-being and family priorities come first. I learnt the hard way through my personal life experience that the best way to handle your priorities is not by relying on anyone but yourself and not to expect anything too much or you might end up with disappointments. When you set your priorities straight you will live a happy life and only good things will happen.

Bringing up my two young daughters, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, investing in their education and being an inspiring mother for them is my day to day work in progress and my top priority. I try not to plan ahead a lot with certainty so I go with the flow and simply make the most out of everyday by doing what’s best for me and my family.

COPING WITH LOSS The only cure for grief is to grieve. Everyone has their own way of grieving. It is not a sign of weakness, it is an emotional, physical and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love....

The loss of Walid, my late husband and father of my two young daughters, was so hard and challenging for me.

One never knows how strong they are until being strong is their only choice.

It was the biggest loss for me especially after living a beautiful marriage full of love and sharing unforgettable moments together. Yes I was very young.... at the age of 27 after giving birth to our second daughter, two months later he passed away.

With our married life mapped out ahead of us and after being blessed with our first daughter Talia then Lana one doesn’t imagine that life can really change so dramatically overnight, but it did. He was suddenly diagnosed with cancer during my mid term days of pregnancy. Cancer is one of the most indiscriminate diseases and it was never expected to happen and enter into our early years of marriage. Leave alone the person I loved most in the world. For the past two and a half years I learnt so much the hard way, after the heartbreak I experienced. Walid protected me and shielded me from so much in so many ways, yet he also had so

favorite sayings was, “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, its about learning how to dance in the rain”.

I guess it’s very important to keep the memory and the legacy of our loved ones alive. When I first used to think of him after his passing I used to cry but now I think of him and I smile. Me and my daughters’ loss left a hole in our hearts and I know it will never go away, we never truly get over a loss but we move forward and evolve from it.

Walid empowered me and imparted me with love, sharing my life with him taught me so much and that gave me more hunger to learn. I appreciate all our memories he has left behind and our beautiful daughters remind me of him every single day.

Up till today we talk about him, we miss and we pray for him. Walid was

Now with the year coming to an end I begin a new chapter in my life after so many changes with much optimism and hope. I feel grateful for all the support and love from my friends and family who have stood by me. Thanks to them and many of our mutual friends who were there for me. They empowered me

an inspiring man with a wide heart and had great love for life. One of his

during my most challenging times.

much faith and believed in me.

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M Y F AV O U R I T E S

PHILANTHROPY

it would hopefully be related to law and the empowerment of women.

“Philanthropy is not about money... it’s about feeling the pain of others and caring enough about their needs to help.”

Timothy Pina

TRAVEL

During my years of marriage I became involved in the world of philanthropy and now after my sad loss I’m more intrigued to understand the depth and importance of philanthropy in the world. I believe that kindness is always beautiful if it’s coming from within and it brings so much self-happiness in return.

I have lived in various international locations and visited many other stunning destinations. I don’t have a favourite place but I always enjoy traveling somewhere where there is sea and sun in a warm climate. Many places I still travel to are my part of my travel routine, especially during fashion week. On holidays I tend to take my daughters somewhere that’s more family oriented and child friendly.

Walid was passionate about improving people’s welfare especially when it came to children. One of his special interests was in the field of actively promoting brain and neurological related research into a disease that affects fifty million people worldwide, yet receives very limited exposure - Epilepsy.

I spent so many happy moments in Gstaad and Zurich with Walid. We got married in Venice and we then moved to London. We traveled for holidays to the South of France, sailed around the Mediterranean for our honeymoon and then again with our first daughter, joined by family and friends.

Now that I feel my life is regaining order I am keen and passionate about throwing my skills and energy into keeping Walid’s vision alive carrying on research and raising the profile of this very sad condition. Walid had a passion to improve life for the many and I had started working with him on this specific area before his illness. He established, funded and promoted his own company in Switzerland, working with doctors, scientists and neurologists at the Epi Centre Clinic in Zurich, in order to take this idea and technological innovation from concept to a promise of reality - and I share that vision.

One of my most enjoyable trips was flying to Asia, visiting and walking up the Great Wall of China. The cherry blossom season in Japan (Tokyo) is a must see, during the springtime. We toured the Caribbean islands and spent an amazing time in Mexico. One of my favorite relaxing and detoxing destinations was the Maldives, it’s a perfect place to disconnect.

We’ve also been to Hawaii so whoever would like to renew their vows, I suggest that’s the place to go. Vegas was fun and I would do it again. In Germany and Switzerland we had some of our best days too. Walid and I wanted to continue traveling the world, he wanted to show me so many more places. Now I hope I will explore more places with my family and friends. I believe that’s the beauty of traveling, you build memories that become stories in your life.

For myself, Walid and our young daughters, I hope one day I could be able to continue to grow his philanthropic legacy and rekindle that passion.

For now I am involved in a few charitable events that evolve around the disabled and different diseases including cancer.

HOPES AND DREAMS

HOME

Everything starts with a dream, they are echoes of hope that we turn into reality.

For me home was never a place, it’s where you feel love and security. It is where the heart belongs. Less than a year ago we moved from London to Lebanon and we split our time between Europe and the Middle East now.

I want my children to have the best of both worlds and to learn the Arabic language. To understand more about me and my late husband’s culture and to be close to their family in their early years. I love my country but I also enjoy traveling a lot. After living in London for almost 6 years it also became my second home. My daughters’ education and stability is extremely important for me. They have both been accepted into one of the best schools in London so maybe one day I will decide to go back and I could also explore a new venue of study and work for myself too. If I do

One never knows what the future holds for us but for now I hope that me and my family will be able to live our lives to the fullest, to enjoy every moment with them and watch them grow healthy and well educated.

My ambition is to keep the legacy of Walid alive and his vision turned into reality, where the lives of many sufferers can be improved by medical technology.

For me to continue doing what I feel most passionate about, make a difference and maybe some day find true love again...

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J E W E L L E RY

C hopard Folie O n The C ote D’azur

Jose Carreras, Caroline Scheufele and her father Karl Scheufele at the Cannes Film Festival 2018

CHOPARD AND THE CANNES FILM FESTIVAL Chopard has been partnering with the Cannes Film Festival since 1998. In addition to crafting the legendary Palme d’or in its workshops along with all the trophies handed over at the closing prize-giving ceremony, and to adorning the stars for the traditional “Montée des Marches ” ritual thanks to the magnificent Red Carpet Collection, the Maison also awards up-andcoming film-making talents with the Trophée Chopard as well as organising unforgettable annual parties. This year once again, Chopard brought its own inimitable sparkle to the Festival.

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J E W E L L E RY

Cate Blanchett, Isabeli Fontana, Celina Jade, Julianne Moore, Izabel Goulart, Sui He wearing Chopard at the Cannes Film Festival 2018

RED CARPET COLLECTION 2018: SUBLIME HAUTE JOAILLERIE

unveiled Chopard Rooftop underwent its first transformation to

Each year since 2007, Chopard Co-President and Creative Direc-

in London – with the added bonus of views across the legendary

tor Caroline Scheufele imagines a Haute Joaillerie collection rising

Croisette. To complete this unique setting, New York-based trum-

to the extraordinary challenge of offering a number of jewellery

pet player Chris Norton was on hand with his quartet to play lively

creations equal to the festival edition number. The aptly named

jazz tunes followed by a DJ set from Alexandra Richards.

recreate the hush, plush atmosphere of an authentic private club

Red Carpet Collection is an anthem to femininity encompassing a complete set of 71 creations. It was as ever dedicated to the finest

SECRET CHOPARD NIGHT

actresses for their red carpet appearances, making Chopard a not-

A secret place, a musical performance by a covert artist, an en-

to-be-missed fixture in this world of emotions and glamour.

igmatic dresscode: guests at this unmissable event of the Cannes fortnight had to wait until the momentous night to satisfy their cu-

THE GENTLEMEN’S EVENING IN CANNES

riosity. The only indication provided was to show up dressed in

Actors and socialites renowned for their elegance congregated for

black and masked.

this event organised for the fourth year running. The freshly

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J E W E L L E RY

HAPPY HEARTS LUNCH The watchmaking-jeweller, for which the heart has become an unmistakable emblem – notably through its Happy Hearts collection – launched a new edition of its famous bangle bracelet featuring a moving diamond, for the first time set with pink mother-of-pearl. To support the cause promoted by Russian fashion model and actress Natalia Vodianova, whose Naked Heart Foundation helps families raising children in need, Caroline Scheufele and Natalia Vodianova have dreamed up this new piece of jewellery, brimming with symbolism and emotions, of which part of the proceeds will be donated to the activities of the philanthropic organisation.

TROPHÉE CHOPARD Each year since 2001, under the aegis of the Cannes Film Festival, the Trophée Chopard has been turning the spotlight on the up-and-coming generation of international film-makers. It has proved consistently sharp-witted in pinpointing future talents by rewarding a young actress and a young actor ready to shine on the silver screen. Winner of last year’s Best Actress Award in Cannes, actress Diane Kruger – who Jacinda Barrett, Gabriel Macht, Caroline Scheufele and Petra Nemcova in Chopard at the amfAR during the Cannes Film Festival 2018 herself received the 2003 Trophée Chopard – was clearly moved by the invitation to serve as patroness of this year’s edition. At a ceremony orchestrated by Thierry Frémaux, General Delegate of the Cannes Film Festival, and held in the Martinez Hotel, she personally handed this precious distinction to each of the two laureates – Elizabeth Debicki and Joe Alwyn chosen by the Trophée Chopard Committee: a jury composed of Caroline Scheufele, Steven Gaydos (Executive Editor of Variety magazine), along with various laureates, patrons and patronesses from previous years.

Adrien Brody, Caroline Scheufele and Gabriel Macht at the amfAR during the Cannes Film Festival 2018

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J E W E L L E RY

GRAND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE 2018 RACE EDITION Since 2002, Chopard has been the partner and official timekeeper of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, a key fixture on the classic racing calendar. Dedicated to the most prestigious competition in its field, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique collection of Chopard welcomes two new limited-series Grand Prix de Monaco Historique 2018 Race Edition chronographs. These ultimate driver’s instruments are powerful, sporting and

SAS Prince Albert of Monaco and Karl-Friedrich Scheufele at the Grand Prix De Monaco Historique

sophisticated watches that pay tribute to the 11th edition of the race – held this year from May 11th to 13th on the Monte Carlo circuit winding through along the tight bends of the principality.

A PARTNERSHIP GUIDED BY PASSION A key fixture on the classic racing calendar, this prestigious event was bound to appeal to Chopard Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele. In 1992, his passion for these speed machines – with their high-precision mechanical engineering equalled only by their splendid designs – led him to make Chopard principal sponsor and official timekeeper of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique.

“Gentlemen, please start your engines”… These words

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and Petra Nemcova at the Grand Prix De Monaco Historique 2018

marked the official start of the 11th Monaco Historic Grand Prix on May 11th, under a sunny sky. This unique event - that runs every two years - is one of the best classic car races in Europe. Chopard served as the official timekeeper at this famous circuit car race, which attracted over 30 000 spectators and more than 500 journalists from all over the world.

GRAND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE 2018 RACE EDITION, THE IDEAL DRIVER’S PARTNER

Karl-Fridriech Scheufele, Derek Bell, Jacky Ickx, Vanina Ickx and Vic Elford at the Grand Prix De Monaco Historique 2018

With each Grand Prix, two exclusive and original models further strengthen the racing spirit driving this collection of powerful and sophisticated timepieces. From the materials chosen to the construction principles and from mechanical reliability to legible functions: everything is designed to make this sports watch an instrument truly cut out for action.

The ambiance at the Grand Prix De Monaco Historique 2018

Derek Bell at the Grand Prix De Monaco Historique 2018

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CINEMA

Who Can

in

Cannes

by Monella Kaplan

E

very May a charming city on the Côte d’Azur turns into the power hub of “Who is Who” of Film and Fashion, who converge to meet for the Cannes Film Festival, followed by their

entourage, the obligatory press and a flock of fans. Like no other film festival it is the epitome of glamour and glory. And political statements.

This year the limelight shone upon the “#MeToo movement” and female emancipation in the film industry. Yet a lot more changes were noted this year.

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CINEMA

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CINEMA

The year 2000 was the first year I embarked on my virgin

I wondered about the powers that be in Cannes. What does it

journey to the Cannes Film Festival. Armed with a script

take to get into Cannes and who can in Cannes?

under my arm, I descended upon the shores of Southern France with the determination to take on the film industry and

Three distinct worlds coexist during the 10 days of the Cannes

become a Producer.

Film Festival. The Festival crowd, the artistic group assembled of thespian celebrities and directors attending and promoting

Up to this point I had been a Journalist, working first in Ger-

their festival selected film on the red carpet and press-confer-

many and then Los Angeles. I had become slightly unsatisfied

ences; the Marché people comprised of the business people,

with my journalistic tasks of red carpets, awards and press

sales agents and buyers focused on selling and acquiring films;

junkets and wanted to be more creative, to tell stories, discover

and the Luxury society, the glitzy world of fashion and jewel-

them and take audiences on a two hour ride that would make

lery magnates with stunning models in their tow, who throw

them laugh, cry and hopefully inspire them. Inevitably, I had

lavish parties for their jet–set clients. These worlds intersect

caught the film bug!

at some point but astonishingly enough they are rather contained.

The energy that reigned in Cannes was palpable as soon as I stepped into the crowds that were running up and down the

Parties in the world of Cannes are key and this is where the

Croisette - the main street flanked on one side by the exclusive

worlds converge. An invitation to the right parties and yachts

hotels and on the other side by elegant sea-side restaurants - all

could mean the magic wand that opens the door to the desired

bustling with film professionals and celebrities. The Croisette

kingdom as it means access to the power players. To the yearly

ends at the Palais Du Festival, the edifice built in the year 1949

recurring power-parties count the Chopard soirées, the Paul

to host the film premieres, screenings and also home to a few

Allen party hosted by Microsoft cofounder, billionaire, and

hundred foreign sales companies that compose the Marché Du

philanthropist on one of his yachts, the De Grisogono party

Film, the market where films are sold. On the other side of the

and AmFAR. The other notable ones are premiere parties for

Palais lies the harbor.

the festival premieres.

The year 2000 marked the pinnacle of the Neue Markt, the seg-

This year brands were quick to claim the rooftops and beach-

ment of the German stock market introduced in 1997 that was

fronts of the Croisette and dazzle with elaborate soirees. Fes-

dealing with new technologies and included media, telecom-

tival sponsor Chopard had almost every night elegant affairs

munications and the Internet. The exploding growth turned

on the roof of the Hôtel Martinez topped with a mesmerizing

the CEOs of the new companies almost overnight into bil-

dinner at a chateau in a stunning location overlooking the Rivi-

lionaires. And what better place to show off their new yachts

era. Brands made their growing presence known like no other

than Cannes? The result was a frenzy – every night film sales

year before.

companies and studios were competing with the new Internet companies over who would throw the more lavish party. The

I wouldn’t be surprised to see in the near future brands replac-

champagne was flowing, stunning celebrities were floating

ing the names of financiers on the credit roll. In an industry

over the red carpet and deals were closed over rosé and lobster.

where the financial means are dwindling, it seems that a marriage between film and brands where the later would invest

This year, 2018, I arrived again in Cannes, like every year for

into content to become equity partners would be a natural pro-

the past eighteen. I settled into my apartment overlooking the

gression.

Palais and looked down to discover heavily armed police and army patrolling the streets. Indeed a new world has emerged

The festival has changed as well. The festival direction under

in so many aspects. The film industry has changed over the

leadership of artistic director Thierry Fremaux banned selfies

years – as has the festival.

from the red carpet, fueling one of the many controversies that

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CINEMA

always seem to surround Cannes. The more significant one was

DuVernay, Chloë Sevigny, and Kristen Stewart. The President

the ban of giant streaming platform Netflix, requiring compet-

of the jury led a women’s march on the red carpet to highlight

ing films to have a theatrical release in France – a spat geared

the need for more women filmmakers and point out the lack of

at protecting French cinema and the distribution system. France

gender equality within the selected directors in the festival’s 71-

has always shown a certain pride of heritage and protectionism

year history: 82 women were representing each of the 82 female

towards their cultural goods – proven by its quota system. This

directors compared to 1,688 men.

year the choice of movies seem to have reflected this tendency with a noticeable light selection of English language films. The

Nonetheless when it came to awarding the prices, the jury vot-

ones that were selected had an obvious agenda and message.

ed for Hirokazu Kore-eda’s Japanese drama “Shoplifters” to receive The Palme D’Or, about a family who rely on shoplifting to

Jean Cocteau, three times president of the jury in the 50 and 60s,

cope with poverty. The “Prix du Jury” – Cannes’ unofficial third

is quoted to have said: “The Cannes Festival should be a no man’s

place honor – was given to Nadine Labaki’s widely acclaimed so-

land in which politics has no place. It should be a simple meeting

cial-realist drama “Capernau”, about a 12-year-old boy’s against-

between friends.” Nothing could be further from the reality with

all-odds struggle for survival on the streets of Beirut.

the Cannes jury choosing movies with political undertones to say the least.

Yet these days no award ceremony can satisfy itself with purely honoring the winners. Cannes was no different in this aspect

Spike Lee’s “BlacKkKlansman” and winner of the “Grand Prix”

with Asia Argento ensuring to publicly condemn again the en-

- unofficial second price - is a clear critique to the current US

fant terrible of the film industry, Harvey Weinstein.

administration. His satirical movie tells the true story of the African American police detective Ron Stallworth who infiltrated the

For all its drama, Cannes is still a place like no other. While crit-

Ku Klux Klan in the 1970s with the help of his colleague.

ics are grumbling that the festival has lost its lackluster with the festival leadership snubbing US studios – traditional and stream-

Another topic in the spotlight was the “#MeToo” movement in

ing, others counter that it has found again its original, artistic

conjuncture with “Time’s Up” and the new French movement

voice. One seems certain, political and socially relevant topics

known as 5020×2020. Despite the festival’s attempts to assemble

will always find a home in Cannes and those who express these

a female-heavy jury - including president Cate Blanchett, Ava

can in Cannes.

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CINEMA

The Venice F ilm F estival

By Alessandra Zoppi

Cinema

is fantasy and spectacle, a world parallel to

that of everyday life, where one may dream and revel.

The prelude to the 75th Venice Film Festival is the “Shape of Fantasy” cocktail party, the night before the opening day.

From atop Hotel Danieli’s amazing roof terrace amidst a flurry of music, cocktails and small talk, dreaming may commence as Alberto Barbera, the talented artistic director, introduces his VFF75 and the President of the Jury, director, screenwriter and producer Guillermo del Toro fresh from last years Golden Lion win thanks to his film “The Shape of Water” to friends and guest.

While moviegoers fantasize in Venice and on the red carpet, the feature presentations speak of real life, everyday activities current and historical events, sometimes embellished, which the better directors are able to bring to life with surprising detail and gusto, also thanks to cast’s talent.

26

CINEMA

The opening ceremony screening is “ First

Lady Gaga is dreamlike as she glides down the

Man ” , a retelling of Neil Armstrong’s life in-

red carpet enveloped in a cloud of pink feath-

terpreted by Ryan Gosling and Claire Foy, an

ers by Valentino. Waiting for her on the Palazzo

intense and dramatic story exploring the eight

del Cinema roof terrace are Donatella Versace

or Academy Awards

years preceding his most well-known through

and Irina Shayk, r

the lens of domestic life. Written and directed by

and golden mesh (Versace of course), and di-

The first 4 days of VFF75 boast some of the most

Damian Chazelle (LaLaLand). They were una-

rector debutant Bradley Cooper, sipping on

ble to grasp a prize here in Venice, but I believe

a glass of champagne.

espectively clad in red...

are a thing of magic. It was out of the competition here in Venice, but I’m willing to bet it will receive a call up at either the next Golden Globes

celebrated screenings. Following the inauguration day, two exquisite works take centre stage.

The first of these is “Roma”, directed by Alfonso

this is not the last we will see of them.

The dream continues as “A Star is Born” is The real show however is outside the screening

screened: Lady Gaga, dressed down and make-

rooms, as actors and their entourage stream in-

up free, enthrals viewers with the beauty and

cessantly onto the red carpet, adorned by glam-

intensity of her extraordinary voice. Talent and

orous outfits fit for a fairytale.

passion join as one, and her duets with Cooper

Cuaron and likely to be the event’s crown jewel: it is the story which follows the routines of a 1970s well-off Mexican family living in the Roma neighbourhood of Mexico City, shot in black & white and narrated at a pleasantly flowing slow pace.

The viewer suddenly finds himself being part of

Rachel Weisz and Olivia Colman, who in the role

til your eyes meet her magnetic and illuminat-

the vicissitudes, no longer a simple spectator but

of Queen Anne (XVIIIth century) won the Coppa

ing gaze, which has won her the affection of so

an active participant.

Volpi for Best Actress, accompanied on the red

many. Natalie Portman also stopped for a Bellini,

carpet by a glimmering Emma Stone in a pink

a romantic moment with her ballet dancer and

Louis Vuitton dress.

coreographer husband Benjamin Millepied the

The black & white photography, also by Alfonso Cuaron, is astonishing, with close-up shots like

evening before her screening. The next day at the

open windows overlooking the cast’s memories.

Amongst red carpets and screenings, Harry’s

Lido she walked the red carpet wrapped in a gold-

It is an exquisite film, rightfully awarded the

Bar remains ever the favourite hotspot amongst

en Gucci dress, to present “Vox Lux”, a musical

Golden Lion for Best Picture.

moviegoers in Venice, as does the Hotel Monaco

drama directed by Brady Corbet and also starring

& Grand Canal terrace.

Stacey Martin and Jude Law (notably absent).

shifts to glamour with the screening of “The Fa-

The former is particularly busy until the early

I personally thought it to be one of the less ac-

vourite”, an all-female historic comedy with an

hours: Bellinis, Martinis, carpaccios and delec-

complished films of the VFF75, confused in its

exceptional cast and the costume design of the

table Torcello baby artichokes are all unmissable

narrative and forceful in its acting. An honorable

extremely talented Sandy Powell (whom I hope

classics to indulge oneself with between screen-

mention goes to Raffey Cassidy, playing a young

will go on to collect some prizes and accolades

ings. everyone passes through at least once: even

Celeste subsequently portrayed by Portman in

in the future). Directed by Yorgo Lanthimos, it

Emma Stone manages to blend in with the other

her adulthood.

stars three stellar actresses such as Emma Stone,

patrons, no frills and no makeup, but only un-

Following “Roma”‘s neorealism, the evening

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CINEMA

Eliza McNitt La Biennale di Venezia

Red Carpet Award Ceremony Naomi Watts, La Biennale di Venezia The Lido was forasken for an evening, in favour of the extraordinary 1500s Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a monumental complex in the heart of Venice housing Tintoretto’s works. The invitation is for an “uveiling cocktail” for the world premiere of “Yugen”, the work of artist and film director Martha Fiennes (sister of Ralph and Joseph): a “film painting” developed thanks to a sophisticated algorithm, featuring a glowing Salma Hayek , here with her inseparable husband Henry François Pinault, and projected onto a breathtaking screen flanked by ancient marbles and Tintoretto’s works

Red Carpet Award Ceremony Christoph Waltz, La Biennale di Venezia Yet another embellished biopic can be found in “Werk Ohne Autor – Never Look Away”, a film exploring the life and artistic evolution of Gerhard Richter (one of the most prominent contemporary

The next day, at the Lido, the red carpet is for Julian Schnabel, an American artist who has created his best art with a filmmaker’s tool. He presented his fifth picture “At Eternity’s Gate” inspired by the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh, not a traditional biopic but instead an artistic narration where every scene is drawn from his paintings, and through which the life story of this great Dutch artist comes to life. A monumental Willem Defoe stars as the troubled artist and deservedly took the Coppa Volpi for Best Actor home with him.

28

artists), told by Florian Henckel von Donnesmark (“The lives of others”; “The Tourist”) with artistic license. The film, which marks the German director’s return to cinema after a lengthy self-imposed absence, was screened in the Sala Grande (after an exciting red carpet) at 11pm. Despite the 3 hour and 15 minute runtime, it managed to keep viewers glued to their seats thanks to the beauty and delicacy of its photography.

CINEMA

The Zurich F ilm F estival

By Maite Plimmer

T

he 14th edition of the Zurich Film Festival just took place in Zurich. Once again we had an impressive star line-up: Judi Dench, the Grand Old Dame of British cinema, received the Golden Icon Award. She was in Zurich with her new film

RED JOAN, a fact-based spy story. Her Canadian colleague Donald Sutherland received the Lifetime Achievement Award honour and an eleven-title retrospective. The ZFF also honored the German director Wim Wenders with the “A Tribute to ... Award� and a retrospective of twelve of his films. A record number of Academy Award winners were present at the ZFF with their films. Six of them received an Academy Award, including directors Pawel Pawlikowski, Kevin Macdonald or Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck; and nine more received Academy Award nominations, including actors Johnny Depp, John C. Reilly and Dev Patel.

There were 160 films shown of which many were world premieres. I cannot enumerate them all unfortunately but I will try and give you a varied taster.

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CINEMA

COLD WAR Director Pawel Pawlikowski with Joanna Kulig and Tomasz Kot as protagonists.

RED JOAN Actors Judi Dench, Stephen Campbell Moore, Sophie Cookson, Tom

Charismatic pianist Viktor is scouring a grey, post World War II Poland in search of members to form a folk ensemble. He meets the rebellious singer Zula, who seems perfect. Viktor falls for the charms of the blonde beauty and the two embark on a passionate affair. In the face of increasing political pressure, Viktor decides to flee to the West with Zula by his side.

They plan to do so when the ensemble is invited to East Berlin to give a concert. The two set the date for their escape when Zula is suddenly overcome by doubts and fear... Set against the backdrop of 1950’s Europe and inspired by the turbulent marriage of his own parents, director Paweł Pawlikowski portrays the odyssey of two lovers who repeatedly lose sight of and rediscover one another.

Hughes, Ben Miles “ I was just a shadow in this male dominated world. Invisible... and powerful in the end”. Joan Stanley enjoys a well deserved retirement in quaint little village in England. Her leisurely daily life is suddenly turned upside down when MI5 agents stand at her door and handcuff her. Because the charismatic pensioner has a best-kept secret: she is one of the most influential spies in history. A leap into the past reveals the fateful encounter that made Joan an agent: on the campus of Cambridge University in the 1930’s, Joan falls in love with the highly manipulative Russian Leo, who is increasingly influencing her worldview as a young student. After the war, Joan works in a top secret nuclear facility and soon faces an impossible

I was blown away by the cinematography in this movie. Entirely filmed in black and white and emphasizing the soul of the times, the people and even the buildings. A serious contender for an Oscar.

decision: Is she ready to betray her homeland, for peace’s sake?

LIFE ITSELF Director Dan Fogelman and cast Oscar Isaac, Olivia Wilde, Olivia Cooke, Antonio Banderas, Annette Bening, Mandy Patinkin, Caitlin Carmichael

PUTIN’S WITNESSES

This international and intergenerational love story extends from the hectic

Director Vitaly Mansky “If Putin is elected, media freedom will be guaranteed!”, Russian President Boris Yeltsin is radiantly and free of irony proclaiming on election night in 1999. As head of documentary for a state broadcaster, director Vitaly Mansky, who, like millions of other Russians was looking forward to a future of democracy, gained almost unrestricted access to Putin and the inner circles of the Russian leadership. Twenty years of Putin later, he is sitting in exile in Latvia, disillusioned. He delves into his film archive to provide a unique, previously unseen, thoroughly personal insight into the events surrounding Putin’s takeover. Never before have we been able to get so close to the inscrutable Kremlin leader.

streets of Manhattan all the way to an idyllic olive plantation on the Spanish countryside. It begins on the campus of a New York University, where bright student Abby is eagerly waiting for the charismatic Will to finally invite her on a date. Will intends to wait for the right moment however, because he is certain that Abby is the woman of his life. When the two eventually get married and she becomes pregnant, their happiness seems perfect. However, Abby feels increasingly overwhelmed by Will’s love...

Director Dan Fogelman, who made a name for himself with the series THIS IS US, delivers a magnificently cast, heart-warming and surprising ensemble film epic whose characters become interconnected after one fateful event.

30

CINEMA

control, the seafarers’ families are calling for an international rescue operation. Director Thomas Vinterberg’s tense, action-packed film about the submarine disaster lays its focus on the solidarity of crew and relatives – a tribute both to the victims and their families.

THE GUILTY-GUSTAV MÖLLER With increasing irritation Asger is answering incoming calls. Due to a previous incident, the impulsive police officer has been condemned to duty in a Copenhagen emergency call centre. His shift is almost over when he answers the disturbed call of a woman who has been kidnapped. When the connection suddenly breaks off, the search for the missing woman and her kidnapper begins. Trapped in the emergency call centre, the phone becomes Asger’s only weapon. In a race against time, he tries to find the woman and starts to draw premature conclusions in his ever-growing despair. Asger soon begins to realise that he is dealing with a crime of vastly

A STAR IS BORN

different proportions from what it initially appeared to be.

Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga Director Gustav Möller proves that a high-voltage thriller needs nothing When Jackson Maine enters the stage with his guitar, fans find themselves

more than a room, a phone, a computer screen and an actor. Thrilling

in ecstasy, still. Meanwhile, the habits of the likeable country star are

suspense is created by means of the clever, nuanced screenplay and Jakob

slowly eating away at his being. One day, Jackson meets highly talented

Cedergren’s strong performance. A fascinating and highly entertaining

singer Ally, who is plagued by a huge sense of self-doubt. He immedi-

real-time play-on-nerves.

ately recognises her enormous potential and the two soon become a couple. Jackson gradually fills Ally with the self-confidence that she needs in order to become a solo artist. When Ally’s career finally takes off, their relationship, however, begins to crumble: burnt-out by alcohol addiction and his new existence in the shadows, Jackson is left struggling with his inner demons...

The grandiose remake of the classic A STAR IS BORN is Bradley Cooper’s long-awaited directorial debut in which he stars alongside Lady Gaga.

KURSK Thomas Vinterberg Actors Léa Seydoux, Colin Firth, Matthias Schoenaerts I wouldn’t be surprised if “A Star is born” receives at least 3 Oscars next Only the best men the Russian navy has to offer are allowed to participate

year. Mental health, substance abuse, self-doubt, stardom and greedy

in the K-141 Kursk submarine practice mission. Despite temporary sepa-

agents... are just a few of the issues it covers. Hollywood and the music

ration from his pregnant wife, Tanya, and his child, Naval Officer Mikhail

industry have lost a few good people lately and this remake honors them

Kalekov takes on the honourable role of captain, and sets sail in August

in my eyes. Lady Gaga sings at the end of the movie a beautiful song called

2000 together with a crew of almost 120 men. When the nuclear-powered

“ I will never love again” which has to be nominated for an Oscar. A song

submarine begins to sink to the bottom of the ocean after two sudden ex-

we can all relate to after loving and losing someone.

plosions, a race against time begins for the surviving crew, which includes Kalekov. While the Russian government claims to have the situation under

31

MY VISION OF LIFE

A letta & P eter STAS O ur Vision

of

L ife

D

r. Peter Stas was born in 1963, a Dutch entrepreneur and author who completed his studies in Business Economics at the Erasmus University and Harvard University and worked as Product Mar-

keting Manager at Royal Philips Electronics after working as a Consultant at New York-based law office Loyens & Volkmaars.

Aletta Stas-Bax who has been named one of the hundred most successful and influential female entrepreneurs in The Netherlands and the 20 most influential women in Switzerland, founded with her husband Peter the Frederique Constant watch manufacture back in 1988.

The dynamic duo founded the company with the vision of creating high-quality Swiss watches with a more accessible price tag. After 30 years, Frederique Constant is a name synonymous with making the very best of Swiss watchmaking accessible to a wider audience and Aletta Stas has been instrumental in the growth and success of the company contributing significantly to the design and look of many of its most recognizable and popular timepieces, including the beautiful Double Heartbeat Collection.

In 2002, to diversify the Frederique Constant group, Stas and his wife acquired Alpina Watches, a manufacturer of Swiss sports watches founded in 1883.

Later 2008, they co-founded Ateliers de Monaco, a high-end watch manufacturer based in Monaco that has then moved to Geneva headquarters in 2015.

As a tribute to all the work that has been done in the past years Aletta and Peter with the support of Gisbert L. Brunner and Alexander Linz, renowned watch experts, wrote the book “Live your passion, Building a watch manufacture in 2013�.

32

MY VISION OF LIFE

33

MY VISION OF LIFE

In 2016 Peter and Aletta decided to integrate the Japanese Citizen Group where they saw the opportunity of Swiss-Japanese partnership to develop and market accessible Luxury watches for the 21st century and beyond. Peter Stas is currently President of Frederique Constant Group and Aletta is a Member of the Executive Board.

FAMILY My wife and I have been together for over 30 years and we both love watchmaking and all the work that we have done together for the past 30 years (Creation of Frederique Constant brand, taking over Alpina and launching the niche watch brand Ateliers de Monaco) is the fruit of our strong relationship as a couple.

We have two children and we live between Switzerland and The Netherlands, we like to travel and discover new places and traditions around the world, and we pay attention to have a healthy lifestyle.

TRAVELLING

life-long activity that leads to growth and success, both from a business

We have always liked travelling and we’ve visited many places around

and personal perspective. We aim to deepen people’s passions and ad-

the world.

vance their pursuits to strengthen every aspect of life: business, personal, and family. In our opinion, this “whole person” approach sharpens

Back in the 80s we were living in Hong Kong and during our holiday

leadership acumen and life-balance.

season we made the most of it by visiting surrounding countries: for example, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia.

I believe there are no countries in Asia that we did not visit during our six years of living in Hong Kong (except North Korea). During our trips, we always like to explore local culture and food. We truly enjoy discovering new places and people.

HOBBY Aletta is an avid golfer with a low handicap, while I am a devoted yachtsman competing in Giraglia and Loro Piana regattas. With our company’s Swan 82 FD, I was on the helm winning the Heineken Regatta in St. Martin in 2014 and also raced in the Caribbean scoring a number one win with that same sailing yacht.

WHOLE PERSON We like entrepreneurship and wise management. Through various organizations, like the Young President Organization (YPO), of which I became a member, we engage with other CEOs, entrepreneurs, and managers. Peer-to-Peer learning is an important

34

MY VISION OF LIFE

INDUSTRY CHANGES There have been lots of changes going on for the luxury watch industry recently including for Frederique Constant. Watches now are clearly not just being bought to show the time even if in reality that has always been the case. Anyway, for a lot of men it is really the only acceptable piece of jewellery that they can wear. People also buy watches as an expression of their personality, to show who they are. With Frederique Constant the customer tends to be a more serious person who buys the watch for himself, for the joy of having a beautiful object. This particular reason, that leads people to buy classic watches, will not change. Here smart watches such as the Apple watch are being bought in addition, not instead of a more classic Swiss watch. The smart watch can be worn during sporting activities to help monitor things like heart rate but at night, when people go out to a special event they will change to their traditional Swiss watch.

THE SMART SWISS WATCH There has been a shift going on in the market here and that is why since 2015 we have also been making smart watches. However they are smart watches that still look like traditional Swiss watches. They have a dial, hands and beautiful components of a Swiss watch but also act like smart watches being able to measure activities such as sleep and heart rate. This information can then be transmitted to your phone help you to dig deeper and see what is going on with your body. This smart watch market already represents 12% of turnover for Frederique Constant and it is a market that we see growing in the future.

So yes there are changes; the pure luxury component of having a watch, buying a watch and wearing a watch will not change but also at the same time the challenge will need to be picked up to add new features to some of the older type of existing products.

A study carried out by Juniper Research estimates that sales of hybrid-connected watches will rise to 80 million units in 2022 from 14 million units in 2017.

This indicates that the hybrid watch market is set to grow three times faster that the market for touch screen models.

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BUSI NESS

FT Business of Luxury Summit 2018 L U X U RY D I S RU P T I O N: T H E I N D U S T RY I N N O VA T O R S C H A N G I N G T H E N A R R A T I V E

By Gemy Kim

A

s Italy was going through its political turmoil earlier this spring, the Financial Times held its luxury summit in Venice. It was representative of what seems to be a worldwide trend of political

uncertainty, but the summit was also representative of the worldwide behavior, despite the governmental trouble, people are still buying and the market is growing. The main topics throughout the conference were similar to last year’s, Climate change and sustainability, how to manage the brand with the ever-evolving consumer, and how to integrate new technology and the behavior that comes along with it, into the customer experience as a whole.

Some companies were present at this conference and have presented and discussed the new ways they have explored to adapt and take advantage of the space created by these changes. Once again Sonraj, the leading luxury retailer of Pakistan, was the sponsor of the Financial Times Luxury Summit hosting a networking cocktail evening for the delegates.

36

BUSI NESS

more engaged and very curious… it’s really that simple, it starts with just asking.

Ask your suppliers and your manufacturers”. In her company, for example they use Depa flexible packaging which is compostable in 24 weeks compared to regular flexible packaging which takes 500 years to decompose. It is 2.5 times more expensive, but as Gabriela Hearst states, “it’s an investment in the future”.

The younger generations are reshaping consumer behavior and restructuring the spending structure, and so, they are also changing the product segment structure.

Climate change is becoming increasingly apparent to every-

Alexandre Arnault, is not only the CEO of Rimowa, but also a 26-year-old millen-

one, with seasons and temperature changing around the

nial. The LVMH group bought in 2016 the centenarian suitcase company to enter a

world, and customers are becoming ever more conscien-

new product line, the practical and functional luggage segment. Arnault wanted to

tious about it. As a result, an increasing amount of com-

venture in this new product category because as he pointed out “the travel market

panies are trying to integrate measures to reduce waste,

as a whole is growing and functionality will be the future of high quality products

chemicals and CO2 emissions. Marie Claire Daveu, from

(luxury)”. They have been able to add value to their merchandise with the know

the Kering Group, is the Chief Sustainability Officer, and

how they have from their luxury brands. An example of this is the collaboration

has created a strategy to be fairer and more environmental-

they have had earlier this year launching a line of suitcases co-branded with Su-

ly friendly throughout the companies of the group as well

preme. These suitcases were sold out in 38 seconds although the going out price

as their affiliates. Some of these strategy goals include a

was $1600 for the trolley and $1800 for the check in luggage. It’s worth mentioning,

40% reduction in their environmental footprint, 50% re-

that the day after they were sold on the Internet for double the price for the people

duction in greenhouse emissions and gender parity, all of

that wanted them and had not had the chance to get it in those first 38 seconds.

these embedded in both the whole of Kering and the entire

These kind of flash sales of limited editions don’t always come without problems.

supply chain. Another example is Gabriela Hearst, founder

The frenzy of wanting a product that is so scarce can also create issues which the

and Creative Director, who points out that “Sustainability

companies have to be ready to guide and accommodate to. Last April, Balenciaga

is a practice, and like any practice it’s hard in the beginning

had a fight break out amongst customers, after a person cut in line to buy a new

but when you start to see the rewards, you become much

sneaker that was being sold in one of their stores in Paris. The fight was recorded

37

BUSI NESS

and posted on the Internet. The negative reaction of a few was quickly and widely dispersed on social media, multiplying the effect of the image of the brand.

Another area that has the space for luxury product growth is that of health.

“Health is the new Wealth” comments Harvey Spevak, from Equinox Holdings, a luxury fitness company that is now rolling out a hotel chain, entering the world of hospitality with their fitness-centered concept. “Our members want us to be part of their daily routine… also when they are on the road.” Its first hotel is set to open in New York with plans to open also in LA at a later date. Nick Brown cofounder of “Imaginary Ventures” speaks about investing in the food and beverage sector to make the digital jump that the apparel and the cosmetic industry has made in the last 5-10 years.

Not only is consumer behavior putting forces to shift the customer point of sale, as Philip Gajzer from Move Now remarks “brands are concerned about increasing rents and potentially decreasing turnover” adding pressure to shift more attention to online sales. It has given space for companies that have been able to service the millennial, digital and impatient, client. An example of this is the company Matchesfashion.com. The company based in London had a sales growth last year of 44%, reaching ₤293m. It carries more than 400 luxury brands and is capable of delivering within 90 mins in the London area. They add value to their service on their website with editorials, from which customers are able to shop. As Ulrich Jerome states, “when someone interacts with a story or with a social element on the website they stay on average 13 mins” compared to 4.5 mins, when they only visit the ecommerce area of the website. “We mixed totally content and commerce together. Basically, you can have the ability to never go to a product page and just shop within a story.” Thirty five percent of their sales have been caused by these articles, showing the success of adding depth to the shopping experience. Matchesfashion.com also opened earlier this year a second townhouse in London. Here, they cater to their private clients (they personalize the store for them, bringing products curated for them) and create events in the top floor to which not only can their customer physically attend but also can watch it online from anywhere in the world and shop at the same time. They have been able to combine the physical and digital world and deliver a service to the millennial customer.

Threads styling is a personal shopping service that creates content only in social media, Snapchat, WeChat, WhatsApp and Instagram. They showcase new inspirational looks every day on Instagram, “almost like a modern day magazine,” as Rachel Reavly (vice president of Brand Strategy) calls it, from which the customer is able to contact them and speak directly to an assigned personal shopper from Threads Styling. They don’t carry any inventory, instead they are there to have a conversation with their client, “ping ponging” messages on chatting

38

BUSI NESS

apps, which end in “inspiration transactions.” Threads styling makes its business by taking a commission of the sale. They also precede the wants of their clients by anticipated messaging, contact coming from the company to the client. Tagwalk, founded by 29-year-old Alexandra Van Houtte, is THE search engine of fashion. If one searches for the “little black dress,” Tagwalk will show an array of dresses from different designers. They make their money by consulting for brands on digital and social media, shopping through affiliated links, and by having smaller labels pay a monthly rate to be featured next to the bigger houses. She remarks, “when you are a millennial and when you are impatient and when you are used to things being perfect. It’s very difficult to go on a website and have 5 days waiting to receive something, not have a return slip, not have anyone on the phone to respond to you.” Brands have not been able to provide the service the shopping platforms are giving, due to the difficulty of having to fully engage in a different line of work, where IT and logistics are at the center of the business model. “Brands don’t do that. And they should be doing it, because they are losing so many clients... The LVMH people don’t sell online… so they are literally missing out and they are not even providing themselves an alternative. Which I think it’s a big mistake.”

Social media has hugely affected how the brands communicate with people.

Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert, a Fashion editor, creative director, consultant and influencer talks about the subject: “Out there brands cannot control social media” so they “need to stay honest and authentic.” Anything less than genuine will be caught because “Everybody knows everything about everything.”

Due to this development, the impact of influencers is becoming increasingly important and at the center of the efforts of any brand to work on the image they want to leave on people. Janey Whiteside, from American Express, explains “In the past brands determined what qualified as luxury. They created a vision and they marketed to consumers… today the roles are almost reversed.” Due to the impact of social media, consumers are active participants with whom the brands need to have a dialog with in order to succeed in the market.

In this year’s Business of Luxury summit organized by the Financial Times, it was apparent that the customers of luxury products are evolving and companies have to be able to catch up with the change in behavior. Luxury is not something that the customer buys, rather, it is something that the customer does, she/he experiences it and then posts it online to chat about it in his/ her community. There are many opportunities in the sector, which this year amounts to a revenue of $500 million and keeps growing year after year at a higher rate than the non-luxury sector. But the principles in business do not change, and in order to capture these benefits the companies have to stay authentic to their brand while still adapting to their customer.

39

E S S AY

H edge F unds and H ollywood An Interview with Richard Hains

By Catherine McQueen

R

ichard Hains is described by GQ magazine as one of Europe’s leading hedge fund managers with over 30 years experience in the industry. His debut novel Chameleon, set in the world of high finance, met with critical claim

and a recently adapted screenplay, also written by Hains, is in development to become a Hollywood movie.

THE FINANCIAL MARKETS Richard tells his junior portfolio managers that if they are looking for contentment in the financial markets then they should go and get dog and look for another industry to work in. The markets can be lucrative, but are also great at showing you what you are not doing right and pointing out everyone else who is performing better. This is the difference between finance and other industries: you are able to measure your

40

E S S AY

performance exactly and in a way he notes this

finance industry. Gold mining, another industry

CHAMELEON

can leave you feeling that you could have done

that he is actively involved in, again, provided

His critically acclaimed book Chameleon, was

better. He admits that contentment remains for

you have the right development team in place,

written because Richard wanted to give an insid-

him a little elusive and yet this is actually one of

you can borrow against the asset and lease the

er’s perspective to the financial services industry

his great drivers, the search for more.

machinery, reducing the capital outlay. Property

having read a lot from the outsider’s perspective.

the same, you can borrow against it. As an aside,

LOW VOLATILITY

He admits it started out as a hobby, an interest

Richard, a frustrated architect, has in fact won

that developed into a distraction and became an

It’s no secret that the lack of volatility has been

awards from the Royal Institute of British Ar-

obsession that drove his ex wife mad. Luckily

problematic for many hedge funds around the

chitects for work he has done on his Grade 11

they still remain good friends, in fact he ded-

world for some time now with many closing

listed Gloucester pile. The independent film in-

icated the book to her, something he says that

their doors completely and some simply re-

dustry in his opinion is suffering from a lack of

she sees as somewhat of a double-edged sword.

turning money to investors, citing the inability

leverage, the only people who have any money

Richard is now dating top European model Al-

to make returns. In Richards’s case this has not

are the studios and they prefer to fund films that

bina Kireeva (pictured). He describes the book

happened but he still cedes that the markets have

have a known track record of success, often big

as Steve McQueen’s Thomas Crown meets Jason

been tough. Not helped ei-

Bourne with a very

ther by the long period of

strong element of a

Quantitative Easing by the

modern-day

central banks, which of

Hood, it has a strong

course is coming to an end

philanthropic founda-

now. He hopes that volatili-

tion. He points out that

ty may soon return, at least

Thomas Crown was in

that would shake things up

fact the first ever hedge

a little and show the pas-

fund

sive ETF funds up for what

picted on screen. The

he believes them to be; the

Thomas Crown Affair

Emperor with no clothes, a

was released in 1968,

blunt instrument replicat-

a lot earlier than when

ing another derivative in-

hedge funds became

strument. Possibly enticing

part of the general fi-

investors, who have been

nancial landscape.

Robin

manager

de-

flocking to these low cost, droves over recent years,

MODERN PHILANTHROPY

back into actively managed

It’s an interesting con-

funds.

cept that Richard is a

passive

investments

in

big believer in, noting

HOLLYWOOD

the

A lack of leverage is in his

groundbreaking

effect that Bill and

opinion the big problem here, “a lot of people

budget sequels. The Netflix and Amazon’s of the

Melinda Gates have had. As the Trump Adminis-

will tell you what you want to hear in the film

world have been a saviour here injecting new life

tration have cut support in various different areas

business but when it actually comes to writing

into the industry. Netflix for example does have

this has created a gap that he feels is being filled

a cheque, its hard to come by”. The fact that no

access to large amounts of capital because they

by the likes of Bill and Melinda and also other

one seems to have any money is a common com-

can borrow from the bank at very low rates.

wealthy players often from the technology sector.

plaint. You have a script but you can’t borrow

Their share price alone is a phenomenon. They

Technology itself, not just the successful compa-

against it. In finance, property, mining this is not

are therefore able to produce a lot of the original

ny founders, is also at force here with sites such

a problem. You can buy, for example, Amazon

content they need themselves. All in all though,

as Just Giving and Facebook making it very easy

shares and borrow against them enabling you to

compared to finance, the film business is in Rich-

to do your bit. He sees this as a growing theme

buy more, in fact he notes this leverage has al-

ard’s opinion, “a brutally difficult industry”.

not just in the US but also around the world.

ways been one of the great fuels that drives the

41

E S S AY

AUSTRALIA Finding a way around the afore mentioned lack of leverage problem we

actors. “They will pay back 40% of the costs of production and with this

move to Australia, his place of birth and a country dear to Richard’s

rebate in place you are able to find bridging finance to finance the film

heart, “It’s a very lucky country Australia”. Noting Geoffrey Blainey’s

until you get the rebate funds.” Again leverage is key, “the project must be

1966 book The Tyranny of Distance, he points out that what used to be

appropriately structured to be able to stand on its own two feet”.

a problem for the country, namely its distance from Europe is now an advantage with its proximity to Asia. “It is one of the few countries in the

OPTIMISM AND AMBITION

world that has had 25 years of uninterrupted growth.” Australia’s success

Although Richard grew up in an affluent background, his father is one

is Richard’s gain with the Australian government, now one of a small

of Australia’s wealthiest men, he points out that it never felt like that,

band of AAA credits left in the world, offering a 40% rebate on Australian

instead he feels that his ambitious nature derives somewhat from the post

films made in Australia with Australian directors, writers, producers and

war, working class Melbourne mentality of his parents. They never had a

Richard and Albina with leading LA based producer Mark Pennell and Katie Cooper at this year’s Film Festival.

sense of entitlement, a character trait he particularly dislikes, when they were growing up and this he feels has helped them all stay level headed and remain ambitious whilst arguably lacking somewhat the need. “You have to earn it and when you earn it, the fruits of your labour become so much sweeter”.

His inherent optimism is something he puts partly down to being Australian. This is something that both Australians and Americans have in common. The US is the country of the third, fourth sometimes fifth opportunity. They will keep on trying and having a go, they are not quitters.

He believes that if he works hard and puts enough effort into something then there is a good chance that it will succeed but notes, quite rightly, that if he doesn’t try then he will never know.

Eden Roc at the Hotel du Cap, the centre of celebrity at the Film Festival.

42

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SOCIETY

of

The H eydays M arie A ntoinette

By Caroline Von Krockow

M

arie Antoinette was the tender age of fifteen when she married the equally young Louis XVI in 1770. The teenager had to leave her beloved Vienna behind and create a new home in

Versailles. In contrast to the Austrian court, which allowed for informal leisure time after the formal receptions in the Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn, the French daily routine was stricter and more regulated, filled with appointments, prayers and work under the constantly watchful eyes of the king and her three austere aunts (the sisters of Louis XV). This was much to the dismay of our rebellious Dauphine, who craved amusements. But neither her husband, a quiet man who enjoyed hunting and physical activity more than the fair sex, nor her educators like the Comtesse de Noailles who she called “Madame Etiquette” entertained Marie Antoinette. Bored and prisoned in the golden cage of Versailles she wanted to go to Paris, but getting the permission of Louis XV was easier said than done. Finally on Tuesday, 8th June 1773, on this cloudless day the sun shone on her and the Dauphine made her formal entry into the city of light. Her first encounter with the French people made a profound impression on her and she shared her joy with her mother writing that, “we were received with all imaginable honour.”

44

SOCIETY

Soon after this first visit, Marie Antoinette at nineteen became Queen.

After her first visit

“God help us,” nineteen year old Louis XVI exclaimed, ”for we are too

to the capital Marie

young to reign.” Marie Antoinette by contrast was thrilled and the crown

Antoinette had con-

became her brand new toy. A year later the queen had a portrait of her-

quered Paris, but Paris had also conquered her! She would often drive to

self painted wearing an embroidered gown encrusted with sapphires and a

this alluring city, officially and ‘incognito’ to amuse herself at day and

towering ziggurat of powdered hair. When the Empress Marie Theresa re-

night. At the beginning she would still visit the museums, great houses and

ceived it, she was aghast. “No, this is not the portrait of a Queen of France.

noteworthy sights, but this soon tired her.

This is the portrait of an actress!”

Instead her daytime visits would become more rare and the dress maker As the youngest daughter of Empress Maria Theresa she did not experi-

Mademoiselle Bertin would go to Versailles to equip the Queen for night

ence the perhaps necessary pressure and despite the private tutoring could

time. Her mother, tried to warn her daughter repeatedly. “You know I have

not write properly at the age of ten. Her mother was well aware of Marie

always held that it is well to be in the fashion to a reasonable extent, but

Antoinette’s unwillingness to dedicate herself to serious matters, that she

that one should never be outré in one’s dress. A good-looking Queen, en-

rarely opened a book and preferred the fleeting pursuit of pleasure and

dowed with charm, has no need of such follies. I, who love my little Queen

happiness. Dancing, laughing, shopping, her hair, make up, masked balls

and watch her every footstep, cannot hesitate to warn her of her frivolous-

and playing were her favourite pass times. At the beginning there was still

ness in this matter.” However, Marie Antoinette shrugged off these warn-

a bit of pressure from “Madame Etiquette” and King Louis XV, but now

ings and thanks to her shopping addiction the seamstress Mademoiselle

that she was Queen, what and who should stop her?

Rose Bertin would become quite famous. The Queen adored every detail

45

of Rose’s designs and they became fast friends. But nothing stands alone as more imaginative—and perhaps more excessive— than Bertin’s poufs (the material attached to the dresses at hip height at the back to create more volume). Rose designed poufs with many luxurious details. The poufs of the queen were very special and up to three feet high adding lavish amounts of embroideries, jewelry, laces, ribbons and other passementerie. On hats, the adornment was even more inventive, including feathers, fruit and flowers. The staggering expenses that Marie Antoinette incurred were paid for by levies on the Third Estate. The cheerful and coquettish Queen invested in her clothes.

Her budget overran on an annual clothing allowance of about $3.6 million in current spending power and in some years, more than double.

Marie Antoinette’s hairstyle was of equal importance to her. The elaborate coiffures were the literal height of fashion and the most extreme examples of the excesses reached during this period. Monsieur Léonard was the king in this department. Again, her mother was alarmed and told her daughter so quite frankly, “I cannot refrain from touching upon the matter which many of the newspapers have brought to my notice. I refer to the way in which you are dressing your hair. They tell me that from the roots on the forehead it rises as much as three feet, and is made higher by the super addition of plumes and ribbons.” Indeed Marie Antoinette’s hair was sometimes even higher and there could be a boat or an English garden fashioned on top of her head. Obviously, all the fashion victims of Versailles wanted to look like her and sometimes lost everything financially trying to copy her style. Like Marie Antoinette, the aristocrats couldn’t pass through the doors of Versailles because their dresses were too voluminous. When they traveled their hairstyles were so big they had to pass their head through the window of their horse coaches. This did not prevent Marie Antoinette or any of her friends from wearing the poufs, ornaments and even houses in their hair.

46

SOCIETY

Then what would be a beautiful dress and hair with-

gamble and play to her heart’s content without being

out the matching jewelry? Boehmer and Bassenge

recognized. Quite quickly, scared of being bored Ma-

were the Harry Winston of the day. From them Marie

rie Antoinette turned night into day! She lived side by

Antoinette purchased diamonds, rubies and pearls

side with her husband and went to bed when he woke

not only for her tiaras, fingers, neck and ears, but

up. There were no children for the moment and as

also for her hats, hair and dresses. Even her shoes

her mother reminded her there wouldn’t be if she did

were sparkling with the finest gems.

not adjust her schedule.

Another weakness was gambling, which became a

Next to Versailles there is a little house, the little Tri-

serious addiction of the young Queen. Playing for

anon. Louis XVI gave the Petit Trianon and its es-

money at Versailles was as innocent a way as passing

tate as a gift to his young bride, who rapidly made

your evening as billiards or dancing, but not at the

it her own and set about redecorating the interiors

stakes Marie Antoinette played. Her gaming tables

including a Rococo theatre and the exteriors with An-

were heavily laden with gold pieces and her debts

glo-Oriental gardens. Petit Trianon, became her fa-

grew to exorbitant amounts. Marie Antoinette had

vorite surroundings, where she could pursue all her

been taught to gamble by her mother as a child al-

aforementioned pleasures completely undisturbed

ready and the game was as prevalent in Austria as

and even excel as an actress! The fact that the ham-

it was in Versailles. However, as she started to lose

let was also a functioning farm, a point upon which

more and more money even her mother became

the Queen insisted, did not mean that she became

alarmed, “Gambling is unquestionably one of the

rural. She did not (as has been speculated) play at be-

worst pleasures, attracting evil company and giving

ing a farming lady at the farm complete with sheep

rise to malicious talk. It allures those who are giv-

trussed up in ribbons. The queen actually used the

en to it by the passion for gain, and they are always

hamlet as a place for relaxing walks, hosting plays,

duped by their desires. Let me beg you, then, my

small gatherings and parties. Her husband was not

dear daughter, not to give way to this passion.”

always welcome and when he did come he was often encouraged to leave early. Marie Antoinette’s secret

Then of course masked balls had their irresistible at-

garden is worth a visit now as it re-opened and has

traction for Marie Antoinette. Like this she could flirt,

been completely re-furbished in the empire style.

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SOCIETY

Worth E xposing Hollywood

By Leila Russack

F l a m in g o

V e ga s H o t el L a s

‘

Red’s under the bed’, we jest. What we’re jibing about is the boxes containing thousands of photographic negatives found by his cousins under the bed of the late “celebrity” photographer Frank Worth in his poky Hollywood apartment after his death in 2001. Inverting commas marcates the strong triple entendre introduced in 2002 by Norman Solomon, who was asked to be the custodian of the Worth Library having worked with Helmut Newton in Paris in the mid 80s.

After a year of reviewing the archive, restoring key images and printing a limited edition, Norman launched the Frank Worth Collection in Notting Hill in October 2002. Norman enlisted the help of Austin Mutti-Mewse, author of “I Used to be in Pictures” and his twin brother Howard. While they sipped Napa Valley Pinot Noir at the 20th Century Gallery, the opening exhibition venue in Notting Hill, via information that surfaced, they became privy to Worth’s background and realised that he was reluctant to publish photographs of his best friends during his lifetime because he was supposed to be spying on them for possible Communist influences by his ticket to Hollywood parties, FBI boss J Edgar Hoover. The McCarthy-era impunity had a growing blacklist of writers and actors, many of which Worth helped to protect with his wits about him, against the heavy hand who fed him.

First Stop: Hollywood. Frank Worth was brought up in the streets of Brooklyn in the 1920s and 30s. With his loyalties, noted abilities with a camera, and a few gangster connections along the way, he found himself at Union Station, Hollywood in the late 1930s taking photographs of young want-to-be starlets exiting the trains. This is how he met fellow Brooklynite Margarita Cansino, later known as the Love Goddess, Rita Hayworth. Rita’s warm welcome at a few parties gave Frank the pass he needed to gain respect and trust in his muses and their bosses.

48

SOCIETY

Second World War: Pearl Harbor. After being rejected from the draft, Frank was approached by Rudy Vallee and J Edgar Hoover to become a spy on those opposing the American way of life in Hollywood. Frank’s genuine friendships with rising and risen stars confused his new employers, who felt he had a simple penchant for engaging with muses for photographs. His loyalties to his friends ran deeper than his pockets filled by Hoover.

McCarthyism: Spies on the Rise. The Motion Picture Alliance for the Preservation of American Ideals was formed in 1944 to ‘protect’ the film industry, and therefore the American community, from the infiltration by Communist and Fascist ideals. Dalton Trumbo, who wrote Spartacus, had to use an alias for subsequent films like Roman Holiday after he was one of the Hollywood Ten investigated for Communist leanings by the FBI. Frank’s friends were up against the likes of Gary Cooper, John Wayne, Ayn Rand, Clark Gable, Walt Disney, et al, who were the first to report suspicious scripting and rogue ideas in Hollywood during the era of Joseph McCarthy.

The Marilyn Connection. Frank was invited to the opening of the Flamingo Hotel in December 1946 by Benjamin ‘Bugsy’ Siegal to take photos of his girlfriend Virginia Hill. Virginia didn’t turn up, but the party by the pool had Frank taking one of the first photographs of Norma Jean on the Hollywood scene. This was the beginning of the close affection between Frank and Marilyn Monroe. Frank helped Marilyn to get parts in films like Ladies of the Chorus.

While Frank was trusted to hold American ideals, he was a faithful friend who fed somewhat false truths back to the FBI syndicate. He wasn’t going to help those who he despised. And Hoover, in office creating mayhem from 1924 to 1972, was turning out to be a very powerful and very questionable character. Marilyn’s other great friend Truman Capote, who wrote Breakfast at Tiffany’s with her looks, jiggle and persona in mind, jabbed at Hoover all the time. On the other side of the same coin, Frank had the tact and humility required to keep his friends protected, something that Truman seemed to care not. Truman famously sold out his friends in “La Cote Basque 1965”, a prelude to his never-found manuscript Answered Prayers. Let’s note here

49

SOCIETY

that I adore Truman, nonetheless. We all do. But the irony of his final work’s fate is succinct.

and the modern celebrity elite like Rosamund Pike joined the opening.

Frank took glittering photos of the cast on the set of How to Marry a Millionaire. After filming, he invited Sammy Davis Junior, an amateur photographer himself, and Marilyn to shoot publicity photos with the 1951 Singer SM 1500CC Roadster.

One of the Gentleman’s preferred made the cover of Motor World June 1953. Frank was trusted deeply by Marilyn. When she was married to Joe DiMaggio, Frank was the only photographer invited to their honeymoon in Japan. He was also one of the last people she spoke with before her death in 1962.

Shutter Spy: TV Series of our dreams. Norman Solomon, a very approachable, friendly Bronxite has recently written a fast-paced star-studded pilot with elaborate story-arcs for a 10 part, five-year television series Shutter Spy, based on the mysterious life of Frank Worth from just prior to Pearl Harbor until after Marilyn’s death. The story travels through Nazi fifth column and Communist cell activities in the US, to the opening of the Moulin Rouge in Las Vegas. Funding for the pilot is almost complete. Having the privilege of reading the script myself, I hold my breath to see it on the screen. It pops off the page with that sparkling je ne sais quoi and reads like the successful Mad Men and Sopranos.

Marilyn poolside in Las Vegas at the Flamingo was recently discovered, but thirty-six other iconic Frank Worth Classic Hollywood prints comprised the limited edition box set originally offered for sale in 2002. Christies of London hailed it “the most extraordinary collection of its kind in the past fifty years”

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MARCH 21 ïš» 26 W W W. B AS E LW O R L D . C O M

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F rieze New York

By Andreea Belba Photo by Mark Blower

S

pring burst exuberantly humming its May sonata in an effusion of verdure and colour. Torrents of green crude wrapped the dormant New York in a translucent robe right in time for the long-expected

Frieze art fair to revive the artistic spirit and entice the avid visitors in a dazzling journey through the fair’s distinctive sections. The 7th edition of Frieze New York 2018 chaired by Loring Randolph, kept striving for perfection and quality through its extensive array of initiatives, talks and artworks exhibited by emerging or established artists. From 3rd to 6th May 2018, Randall’s Island Park became the 250,000 square-foot artistic arena for more than 190 topmost international art galleries from 30 countries, dominated by American artists, young talents from Latin America and Asia, and art dealers. In addition to its innovative programs, easily navigable layout, and fresh restyling performed by London’s Universal Design Studio, relocated entranceways optimized visitors’ periplus through the fair. Frieze’s Director, Victoria Siddall considered the combination between strong international galleries and dynamic young ones an exhilarating experience to build “the fair’s reputation as a vital international and commercial hub.” On the other hand, Loring Randolph, director of New York’s Casey Kaplan Gallery, and art dealer with Sotheby’s brought value to Frieze’s artistic direction underlining the fair’s artistic spirit reflected in a continuously redesigned environment.

The variety of established galleries (Tanya Bonakdar Gallery, Gavin Brown’s Enterprise, Gagosian, Marian Goodman Gallery, Hauser & Wirth, Matthew Marks Gallery, Skarstedt, and David Zwirner), young newyorkese exhibitors (Bridget Donahue, David Lewis and Simone), newcomers Luis Adelantado, Galeria Nora Fisch, Château Shatto), or first-time participants (Vintage Galéria, Dastan’s Basement, Kaikai Kiki Gallery) unveiled a unique amalgam of hues and visions. Lovers of graphic images in Animé, Manga, and Japanese advertising felt Murakami’s artistic force of nature at Gagosian Gallery, an oasis of millennial pink. By implementing his Superflat concept, the artist visualized no border between pop and high art though Murakami’s own art gallery, Kaikai Kiki related to different forms of high and low art.

The artist’s euphoric figures were big-eyed and long-legged animé girls exquisitely modeled.

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It was novelty, momentum and commitment that defined the grandeur of Frieze New York. Live, an interactive platform curated by Adrienne Edwards, mainly covered historical and contemporary works of black artists whereas Allied Editions and the special-themed section, “For Your Infotainment/ Hudson and Feature Inc” proved spectacular. The latter curated by Matthew Higgs director of White Columns emphasized Hudson’s nonconformist spirit and contribution by means of seven booths and a non-selling exhibition. Other yearly events like Gagosian’s show honoring Damien Hirst, Luxembourg & Dayan Gallery hosting Constantin Brancusi exhibition equally captivated Frieze’s enthusiastic visitors. Other recurring sections were “Frame” (19 galleries aged eight or less with solo presentations), “Focus” (comprising galleries less than 12 years old), “Spotlight (20thcentury art pioneers), “Talks”, and “Education”.

LIVE SECTION This program entitled “ASSEMBLY,” was implemented in New York in 2018 and dedicated to performances, installations, and projects. Renée Green (Galerie Nagel Draxler) Alfredo Jaar (Galerie Lelong & Co./Goodman Gallery) Dave McKenzie (Susanne

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Vielmetter Los Angeles Projects), Hank Willis Thomas (Jack Shainman Gallery) ranged among

with a new sculptural installation, Jacqueline Kiyomi

the most prominent participants. The artist Adam Pendleton (Pace) came to the fore with his

Gordon with a sonic installation, Timothée Calame

daunting Black Dada Flag installed on the bank of NYC Parks’ Randall’s Island from May to

with sculptures and wall works, Gracie DeVito with

November.

landscape paintings. Jordan Nassar’s installation made of hand-embroidered textiles was a remarkable

NEW THEMED SECTION FOR 2018: FOR YOUR INFOTAINMENT/HUDSON AND FEATURE INC.

example. It was a conversation between the artist’s

This section highlighted solo and two-artist presentations by Dike Blair (Karma, New York);

tinian American and that of the Palestinian women

Tom of Finland (David Kordansky Gallery, Los Angeles); Jason Fox and Daniel Hesidence

that Nassar encountered while residing in Israel.

personal embroidery and identity as a Polish-Pales-

(Canada, New York); Tom Friedman (Stephen Friedman Gallery, London); Andrew Masul-

SOLO PRESENTATIONS BY CONTEMPORARY AND MODERN ARTISTS INCLUDED:

Barbara Bloom (David Lewis, New York, Focus); Dalo (Nicelle Beauchene Gallery, New York); Raymond Pettibon (David Zwirner, New York);

vid Hockney (two solos: with Pace, New York, main;

Takashi Murakami (Gagosian, New York); and Tony Tasset (Kavi Gupta, Chicago).

and separately with Offer Waterman, London, main); Betye Saar (Roberts Projects, Los Angeles, Spotlight)

ALLIED EDITIONS

following her solo show at Fondazione Prada (Milan)

2018 signaled the first participation in Frieze New York of Allied Editions, a collective of

and ahead of “Soul of a Nation” at Brooklyn Muse-

non-profit institutions. This year’s edition enriched by Artists Space, CCS Bard, Sculpture

um (New York); Joseph Kosuth (Almine Rech Gal-

Center and Swiss Institute in cooperation with Camden Art Centre, ICA, Whitechapel Gallery

lery, New York); Kemang Wa Lehulere (Stevenson,

and Studio Voltaire facilitated affordable acquisition of works created by prestigious artists.

Cape Town, main); Zoe Leonard (Galleria Raffaella

Martin Boyce, Liz Deschenes, Camille Henrot, Dan Graham, Karl Holmqvist, Joan Jonas, Jim

Cortese, Milan, main); François Morellet (The May-

Lambie, Elizabeth Peyton, Martine Syms, Paloma Varga Weisz, Juliana Huxtable, Donald Mof-

or Gallery, London, main); Torbjørn Rødland (David

fett, and Heji Shin launched solely at Frieze.

Kordansky, Los Angeles, main); Cerith Wyn Evans (Marian Goodman Gallery, main) and a two-artist

FRAME: SOLO PRESENTATIONS BY EMERGING GALLERIES

presentation by Jordan Wolfson and Josh Smith (Da-

This section comprised 19 booths showcasing emerging galleries from Los Angeles, Shanghai

vid Zwirner, New York) retained the audience’s at-

and Berlin with audacious solo shows by Van Hanos’s “Late American Paintings”, Tau Lewis

tention.

54

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC THURSDAY 17 JANUARY Registration at sihh.org

29

th

SALON INTERNATIONAL DE LA HAUTE HORLOGERIE

14 – 17 JANUARY 2019 A. LANGE & SÖHNE | AUDEMARS PIGUET | BAUME & MERCIER | BOVET | CARTIER | GIRARD-PERREGAUX | GREUBEL FORSEY HERMÈS | IWC | JAEGER-LECOULTRE | MONTBLANC | PANERAI | PARMIGIANI FLEURIER | PIAGET | RICHARD MILLE | ROGER DUBUIS ULYSSE NARDIN | VACHERON CONSTANTIN CARRÉ DES HORLOGERS | ARMIN STROM | CHRISTOPHE CLARET | DEWITT | ÉLÉGANTE BY F.P. JOURNE | FERDINAND BERTHOUD GRÖNEFELD | H. MOSER & CIE | HAUTLENCE | HYT | KARI VOUTILAINEN | LAURENT FERRIER | MB&F | RESSENCE | RJ | ROMAIN GAUTHIER SPEAKE-MARIN | URWERK

A RT

F rieze L ondon

By Anastasia Pavlenko

Frieze Masters of Man Ray’s works by Gagosian Gallery

T

he 16th edition of Frieze London closed on the 7th of October. It brought together competitive presentations by 160 international galleries in Regent’s Park.

Starting with a phenomenal historical presentation at Frieze Masters of Man Ray’s works by Gagosian Gallery. It included paintings, lithographs, objects and photographs by the central artist of Dada and Surrealism. Overall, Man Ray was the creator of memorable avant-garde Surrealist images, in general through photography. Truly inventive, witty, carefree and individual, with the motto that the least possible effort would give the greatest result.

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Stephen Friedman Gallery came up with a solo presentation of new works by British artist David Shrigley at Frieze London 2018. The artist and an illustrator well known for his humorous cartoons and deadpan works that traverse the absurdness of everyday life. Presented as a shopfront of the booth, largescale neons took a lot of attention. A major satirical two-screen digital animation ‘Endless Joint’ (2017) was shown in the UK for the first time. Besides, a humorous, recording from the artist’s own vocal imitation, sound-based installation was played on an endless series and accompanied by tease extractor hoods in a dedicated room. Obvious Shrigley’s demonstration and ability to play with the dull nature of apparently common objects and scenarios.

Houser & Wirth Gallery as always shined with their iconic family of museum level artists at Frieze London. The works selected were reflecting Hauser &

Houser & Wirth and Moretti Fine Art’s

Wirth upcoming exhibitions and their

presentation at Frieze Masters, ‘ The

artists participating in major museum

Worlds of Stephen Spender’, is touched

shows. Louise Bourgeois featured

by the life of an important English poet,

with her work ‘Untitled’ (2008) head

novelist, essayist and public intellectu-

sculpture representing her diaries

al. All the works presented were made

– putting her memories of people

by the artists Spender knew personal-

and places she met through her life.

ly and had collected – Lucian Freud,

From an early age she was helping in

Frank Auerbach, Arshile Gorky, Gior-

the family business of tapestry res-

gio Morandi, Henry Moore, of course,

toration. Possibly this repairing of

and others. The project of the presenta-

damaged figures was formative for

tion meant to examine Steven Spend-

Louise: ‘ The sewing is my attempt to

er’s innovative ideas and his artistic

keep things together and make things

friendships.

whole’.

Barbara Hepworth “River Form” It is impossible to miss the true elegant leading Old Master Gallery Robilant + Voena with the choice of important art works always carefully-curated by its founders. In fact, the plaster bust of Napoleon’s younger sister Caroline Bonaparte by Canova and an 18th century painting by Tiepolo were sold in a short time.

Dickinson Gallery for Frieze Masters 2018 had shown an amazing recreation of Barbara Hepworth’s sculpture garden at Tate St Ives. The original landscape was designed by the artist herself and highlighted sculptures in bronze, stone, wood and aluminium. At the same time you could see Hepworth’s paintings, drawings and archival material. The monumental bronze River Form, their highlight piece, was sold on the day of the preview.

Louise Bourgeois (2008) 57

YAC H T S

Where to spend it – a D iary of the 2018 Monaco Yacht Show

By Simon Piggott

W

hat better place to visit for our members and friends than Monaco in late September, where the buz-

zword is mega yachts and their toys!

The Principality becomes the centre of yachting over an intense four days of world premieres, awards, galas and visits for the discerning few to dreams brought to life from ideas on a drawing board into yachts of sheer beauty and elegance.

The 28th Monaco Yacht Show was no disappointment in this respect, with some 121 yachts on display in the Port of Hercules worth a combined value of over Euro 3 billion in floating assets.

The show got underway on Tuesday 25th September with the 5th Edition of the Superyacht Awards

place his current floating palace, Monaco truly gives the best choice in the industry at a

Ceremony held at the Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel

glance. The beautiful sunny day, albeit with a strong wind which made it difficult to take

followed by a cocktail dinatoire around its circu-

tenders out into the bay, sharpened our appetite to see some of the finest yachts in the show:

lar pools. The ‘Dar’, a new 90-meter Oceanco

take the Regina d’Italia, a 51 meter Codecasa with metallic silver exterior, owned by the

won the Finest New Yacht Award as well as that

famous Italian fashion designers Dolce & Gabbana. With a dark black interior contrasting

for Best Exterior Design.

its rococo gold leaf furniture, this was minimalist and flamboyant at the same time. One of its striking features are gold doorknobs in the shape of outstretched hands, which need to be

The first day of the MYS was Wednesday 26th,

carefully circumnavigated!

reserved for brokers taking prospective clients to visit to their favorite yachts for a close inspection.

This viewing was followed by the Owners’ Club Lunch at the Yacht Club de Monaco, the

For first-time buyers, maybe from an emerging

unique Norman Foster designed building, with its splendid terraces reproducing the decks

market, or the expert yachtsman looking to re-

of a ship. Ably run by Bernard D’Alessandri, its General Secretary for the past 20 years, the

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YAC H T S

club becomes the pivotal point of the Show, hosting a number of the top

ments the activities set up by Thierry Boutsen, the ex-formula 1 driver

events throughout the week. At the lunch some 4301 linear meters of

who, with his passion in Aviation, has sold over 350 planes in his career.

yachts were represented; the likes of Sir Stelios Haji Ioannou, founder of

On display here too were the latest configurations of Boeing Business

easyjet, mixed with the owners of a number of other superyachts such

Jets (BBJs). I was immediately put to the test of how to land a Boeing 787

as the 88m Perini Navi sailing yacht,

on the Seattle runway using

‘Maltese Falcon’, owned by a Greek

their professional simulator:

lady, the 65m Camper & Nicholson

success on my first try! My

Creole classic sailing yacht owned

practice continued until some

by the Gucci family. The Moet

300 selected guests arrived

Hennessy team headed by Maxime

to attend a cocktail dinatoire

Navarre and Stanislas de Rocoffort

on the stand with Taittinger

de Vinnière kept everyone happy

Champagne and the natural-

with some excellent Dom Perignon

ly alkaline Titomirov Vodka

2000 Plenitude P2, Clos de Lam-

flowing.

brays Burgundy red and, to finish, an exceptional fifty-year-old Paradis

The first day of the Monaco

Imperial Cognac.

Yacht Show had not ended as a backdrop was formed to cre-

The day was not over and, as much

ate awareness of our environ-

as the MYS is about yachts, we still

ment and oceans as we cruise

like our other toys, which include

through them on our sailing

cars and planes. For the past three

and motor yachts and see how

editions there has been a Car Deck

pollution affects nature and

with the opportunity for car lov-

how we need to act now. The

ers to see tailor-made versions of

Prince Albert II Foundation

well-known luxury models such as

is very active in this domain

the Bentley Continental Coupé as

with many projects around the

well as classic restorations like the

Mediterranean and elsewhere.

Shelby Cobra 289 and the Mercedes

Hence the second edition of

Benz 300 SL Roadster. Some twelve

the ‘Monte Carlo for the Glob-

special cars were displayed at the

al Ocean Gala’, under the High

show. Particularly impressive was

Patronage and presence of

a new hypercar, the spectacular Mi-

Prince Albert II of Monaco,

lan Red model. The first and only

was once again organized in

Austrian hypercar built by Milan

the gardens behind the Casino

Automotive – Milan Red is a very

Square in a dome which made

fast car, with 1325 HP and a weight of only 1300 kilos, combining a sen-

one feel like being in an aquarium surrounded by huge screens showing

sational driving experience with an objet d’art in terms of design. It has

oceans on every side. Orlando Bloom, was awarded the Prince Albert

been created by Markus Fux, a former GT2 driver, and only 99 will be

Foundation Prize, following the previous years’ winner Leonardo Di-

built. It comes in at just under 2 million Euros apiece, so hurry to book

Caprio. Orlando spoke passionately about conservation, as did Prince

one on www.milan-automotive.com. Prince Albert of Monaco showed

Albert.

quite some interest in this unusual car during his visit. The Monaco launch of the Milan Red was followed by a cocktail dinatoire on ‘St. Da-

I spotted many of our members and friends, who had flown in from

vid’, a 60m Benetti yacht, with impressive volumes for its size.

around the world to bring their special contribution for the evening. Simon de Pury conducted the auction exceptionally well, by offering un-

Following the car show, our next stop was the Boutsen Design and Avi-

forgettable experiences for those bidding, thus raising substantial funds

ation stand at the Yacht Club. Boutsen Design, run by Daniela Boutsen,

for the many projects the Foundation will carry out via its priority ma-

caters for owners of private jets, yachts and prestige homes and comple-

rine programmes: plastics pollution, scientific studies on acidification,

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YAC H T S

coral protection, protected marine areas, endangered species and innovative technologies.

Everybody enjoyed the dancing, with a special appearance by Gloria Gaynor, who sang ‘I Will Survive’ as well as performances by Nile Rodgers & Chic, Robert Davi, Madcon

yard Pendennis, which was showing its new 42m sloop rigged ‘Vijonaria’.

Thursday ended with a concert by world-renowned pianist Denis Matsuev, who performed both classical and jazz pieces at the magnificent Salle Garnier Opera House, which was followed by a cocktail-dinatoire on the terrace of the Hotel de Paris, hosted by Julius Bär Private Banking.

Friday was once again devoted to visiting yachts. My favorite today was the 40m Baltic sailing yacht My Song, designed by Nauta of Milan and owned by the Loro Piana family. The owners’ remit has

and Lior Suchard.

been fully achieved, combining a performing sailing yacht, with a top speed of 16.5 knots, and every

“Generosity and awareness are the keys to our

More than 40 premieres were to be seen at the show, with the yachts in the port and those anchored in

future on this planet and to saving our ocean”

the bay totaling over 6000 linear meters and an average length of 49m. Notable in the tender category

said Milutin Gatsby, the Global Fundraising Chairman. The Gala was a great success, nearly doubling the funds raised at the first edition to some Euro 21 million – a major boost to the sustainability of future projects.

Thursday 27th September, started more slowly as we visited the second largest vessel at the

possible comfort for cruising with the family.

was the new Princess R35, designed by Pininfarina in cooperation with BAR Technologies. All in all, the display at the 2018 MYS once again gave plenty of choice to buyers in finding at least one yacht to fit their tastes and wallet.

On Saturday, the last day of the show, we ended up at a luncheon party hosted by the Gustavia Yacht Club of St. Barts. Held at the offices of its Commodore, Sir Stelios Haji Ioannou, over 50 members gathered to celebrate the end of the summer yachting season in the Mediterranean and welcome the beginning of the season in the Leeward Islands. With the hurricane season coming to an end, the

show, Barbara, an impressive 88.5m Oceanco, designed by Sorgiovanni. Owned by Mr. Potanin, a discerning yachtsman and aficionado of Oceanco, with three yachts to his credit – the 2008 75.5m Anastasia, named after his daughter (and just recently sold), Nirvana, his favorite and sister ship to Barbara, which is used as a support vessel with toys and extra cabins for guests. We were most impressed by the volume of the yacht, its quality and the sheer height of the ceilings in the study and other areas.

A welcome break now came for luncheon on the 5th floor deck of the Yacht Club, hosted this time by Credit Suisse, who had set up headquarters at the Club with two suites converted into a lounge on the 4th floor, providing much information about how to finance

Commodore wished everyone fair sailing and calm seas, and looked forward to seeing everyone at the Clubhouse on the island soon.

the acquisition of both yachts and planes.

The Yacht Show officially ended with the traditional sounding of sirens by the yachts in the harbour

We were then entertained by a spectacular

at 6pm sharp, while preparations were underway for the closing parties. The most prized invitation

fly-past and acrobatics of the Red Arrows,

was that from the Lürssen shipyard, hosted by Peter Lürssen and his team, all resplendent in blue

concluding their programme to celebrate the

blazers, white shirts and red trousers. Held on the 5th and 6th floors of the Monaco Yacht Club, the

centenary of the Royal Air Force as well as

party saw distinguished guests and friends dancing away the night and celebrating yet another suc-

marking the 30th anniversary of the UK ship-

cessful Yacht Show before reconvening at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show!

60

Sustainability at its finest

CA RS

G lamours

of

M aserati

by Gdowska Przylipiak di Cappadocia

T

he Cannes Film Festival this year remains an unforgettable experience, added to by the addition of the new Maserati Ghibil S. It was great to arrive at the world’s most glamorous film festival event, in front of. The Martinez or Du Cap Eden

Roc Hotel with people turning around to hear the motor’s volume at the same time with an elegance, which only Maserati can guarantee.

Two souls in one! This is what Maserati has proposed this year with the new Ghibil S. A total reface in a great style with a subtle restyling and a rich array of additional hitech features. After four years of remarkable success in the international markets, the Ghibli’s exterior has been respectfully restyled to emphasize both its elegance and its sportiness - the pillars of its Maserati signature personality. Faithful to its DNA, the 2018 Ghibli as well as the new, launched in July, MY2019 model range offers unmistakable class, top-quality performance and a stylish yet comfortable driving experience. New design, each trim has a clear identity, the aerodynamically optimised changes accentuate the original’s sporty yet luxurious style.

So luxurious, so sophisticated, so glamorous and yet so aggressive at the same time!

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CA RS

The new Ghibli reinterprets the concept of luxury in a sports sedan by enhancing the exterior finish and improving on-board comfort for both driver and passengers. This most elegant expression of the Ghibli uses exclusive materials and special features in the finest tradition of Italian craftsmanship. Externally, it is distinguished by its adaptive full LED Matrix headlights, chrome inserts on the front bumper and 19” Poseidon alloy wheels.

New Ghibli LED technology compared to Bi-Xenon headlamps, offers 20% better visibility, 32% cooler light and headlights with double life expectancy. The Adaptive Full LED Matrix headlights illuminate the road as far as 195 metres ahead – 55 metres further than equivalent Bi-Xenon lights.

There is also a choice of ten alloy wheels in six different designs in sizes ranging from 18 to 21-inch. A wheel design is brand new for MY19, the 20-inch Teseo, which is available in light and dark finish.

“We wanted to distinguish between luxury and sportiness more clearly, and to give a double soul to the exterior of the car”, says Giovanni Ribotta, Maserati Head of Exterior Design.

The 2018 restyling was focused mainly on the front and the rear of the car. The new front bumper embraces a larger grille with a ‘shark nose’ profile, chrome bars and a chrome insert on the upper side. The concave grille is clearly inspired by the Alfieri Concept, adding a three-dimensional effect to the front view of the car. The new Masereti will surprise you not only with its outside design and choice of eleven body colours in the MY19 version, but also with its super stylish and fashionable interiors with pretty new veneers. 2019 introduced the new “Nerissimo” pack, which is available in the MY19 Ghibli bringing together black and dark body elements with an extended range of eight specific exterior colours Each piece has been studied and matched perfectly. The Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interior features patented mulberry silk inserts on the seats, door panels, roof lining and a ceiling light fixture.

The tailored seat details and the label on the sun visors, complemented by a Radica open-pore wood trim and wood-finished leather steering wheel, make it unique and exclusive, beautifully epitomising its taste and luxurious soul. The interior of the Ghibli has been adapted to emphasise either luxury or racing performance, the two essential elements in the DNA of every Maserati.

Inside you can breathe the genius of the design, made in Italy, you can feel the softness of the fabrics and see the quality of the handcraft finishing. The Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interior combines Pieno Fiore leather with 100% natural fibre mulberry widening the choice of exclusive interiors.

Premium Leather (grain B) is used on the upper and lower dashboard and on the armrest. The door panels also stand out for their unique, double-stitching pattern.

Maserati for 2019 offers two brand new High-Gloss interior veneers for the MY19 Ghibli, the Carbon Fibre Twill, which adds exclusivity to the cabin by conveying the idea of a deep 3D look.

63

CA RS

Whats more? Maserati has redesigned the gear-

way. Even when overtaking the different road

Electric Power Steering improves the car’s han-

shift lever with shorter travel and improved op-

line is immediately resolved giving you the feel-

dling and comfort while better supporting the

eration.

ing of safety every time.

driving modes and enabling the new Advanced Driving Assistance Systems offering improved

Driving the new Maserati gives you real pleas-

This is helpful when you are tired or even while

filtering of road irregularities and peace of mind

ure and comfort with all the new technical op-

simply driving as mistakes can happen anytime.

while parking or carrying out low-speed ma-

tions. Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+)

It’s perfect for long trips like from the Masertai

noeuvres. AEB is an active system designed to

at the centre of the dashboard, or the steering

Headquarters in Modena to Cannes where the

avoid collision or minimise damage. A potential

wheel controls for the 7” TFT display. MTC+ has

distractions are many, starting from the beauti-

collision is identified by the ACC radar and a for-

been updated for MY19 featuring improved dis-

ful landscape of Italy and France and terminat-

ward-looking camera. Ghibli and Quattroporte

play graphics and Climate Control ergonomics.

ing with all road difficulties or disturbances that

are the first Maserati cars to adopt IVC, a new

you can find. It really does escort you in every

function using Electronic Stability Programme

A large central console between the front seats

single moment of your journey. This is because

(ESP) software that brings aerospace technology

features two cupholders, a 12V power socket,

while driving, a sophisticated algorithm specifi-

to public roads.

USB and aux-in sockets along with a compart-

cally developed by Maserati is capable of mon-

ment for mobile phones. A high resolution 8.4”

itoring an extensive range of dynamic vehicle

By preventing - instead of simply correcting -

screen with a multi-touch function is the domi-

parameters in real time. These include wheel

a loss of car control, IVC, which has been de-

nant element in the central dash-

veloped in collaboration with

board, featuring a clean floating

Bosch, provides enhanced active

design The Maserati MTC+ in-

safety and driving dynamics, bet-

fotainment system offers great

ter performance and a more en-

interaction as well as compatibil-

joyable experience for the driver.

ity with both Apple CarPlay and

IVC uses a smart, feed-forward

Android Auto smartphone mir-

controller that predicts driving

roring functions, full control of

situations in advance and adapts

almost all on-board equipment,

the engine speed and brakes

Bluetooth connection for exter-

accordingly. The new Ghibil

nal sources like mobile phones

gives you satisfaction with the

and Apple devices. Thanks to

V6 petrol engines, designed by

the Apple chip your SIRI system

Maserati Powertrain, they are

can be always with you ready to

manufactured by Ferrari in Ma-

help you in any situation. Based

ranello exclusively for Maserati.

on Bluetooth technology, SIRI

These latest-generation engines

allows users to perform iOS-connected device

speed, steering and yaw angle, power output,

are powerful, exciting to drive and eco-friend-

tasks and make requests using voice commands.

speed, braking action and EPS, as well as wheel

ly. The Ghibli S can be fitted with Q4 Intelligent

grip versus driving style. By processing all this

All-Wheel Drive to maximise traction on every

There is also the Harman Kardon Premium

data, Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive can max-

surface and gives the sports sedan genuine

Sound System, the Surround Sound System by

imise a dedicated grip profile for each individ-

all-weather capability. The Ghibli S Q4 acceler-

Bowers & Wilkins with a Wi-Fi vehicle hotspot.

ual wheel, creating the optimal vehicle dynamic

ates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, slightly

The small details are everything- right down to

management to suit any given road condition, at

faster than the rear-wheel drive Ghibli S, while

the design of the aluminium key, which reflects

any time.

maintaining almost identical fuel consumption

the Ghibli style and incorporates Keyless Go technology.

and CO2 emissions. Its top speed is 286 km/h.

This strategy has the sole objective of optimising

Imagine the sound ! You cannot pass unnoticed

the balance betweendriving pleasure and safety.

but always with charm and elegance by Mase-

Travelling with GranLusso models by Maserati

The computer system in control of the Skyhook

rati! The Ghibli is built on the same production

is easier than ever.

dampers monitors within an enormous array

line as the Quattroporte at the Giovanni Agnelli

of parameters. Adjusting to suit the suspension

plant (AGAP) near Turin. The new Maserati Ghi-

Your every distraction, little driving imperfec-

mode chosen by the driver, the system delivers

bil is excellent in both the luxury and sports car

tion or the possibility of danger is immediately

the perfect damping mode for each wheel almost

segments at the same time.

corrected and the car is replaced on to the right

instantly. Newly introduced in the Ghibli EPS -

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FA S H I O N

of

M ain H ighlights M ilan Fashion Week September 2018

By Ekaterina Shevlyakova

(SPRING- SUMMER 2019)

Go big or Nothing! - was the top trend of the fashion shows during Milan Fashion week this autumn. None the less many usual “players” of the Milan fashion scene were missing this September ( Gucci was showing in Paris, Trussardi skipped the fashion week completely), others focused on making an extremely big impression by using original and spacious locations and special effects.

Two “kings” of the Fashion week marathon in Milan were definitely the eternal and powerful Giorgio Armani and the young and sexy Philipp Plein who made a comeback to Milan after some years of experience at the NYC Fashion Week.

Two big fashion performances for Giorgio Armani – one classic at the Armani theatre and another, an extraordinary fashion show of Emporio Armani at the Linate airport. This is really what you can call “flying by the seat of your pants”!

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FA S H I O N

The Emporio Armani show took place in a hangar at Milan’s Linate,

in Linate was a winner and had more control than others due to the

the performance involved guests, some of who had flown in the day

extreme airport security.

before, to go through security and passport control for an original and flashy show which passed from minimal and casual off-duty/

The classic Giorgio Armani fashion show took place

surf-wear in shades of blue and grey, through to sporty, neon ath-

at the Armani theatre boasting extreme eternal

leisure and ended with high profile and glamorous evening gowns.

elegance and class, return of purple and blue colours and the presence

To end the evening in total style was Robbie Williams singing his

of sparkly crystal

classic hits dressed in Armani, what else?

elements in all pieces of the

And last but not least, the entrance on the catwalk of the ever young and very active king of Italian fashion Giorgio himself.

The fashion crowd was impressed and looked delighted by posting pictures on Instagram from Linate airport, pretending they were about to take off. The idea of doing a show

67

FA S H I O N

collection – from evening gowns to sporty day footwear. Looking dap-

The trend is that not only skin, but also age doesn’t matter if you are a

per and elegant Re Giorgio (how they call him in Milan) made his clas-

model nowadays. Such designers as Erika Cavallini introduced to her

sic appearance at the beginning of the catwalk for the applause of the

fashion show older ladies in their 50s and 60 s as models and even Do-

amused fashion crowd.

natella Versace chose for the second year in a row to give the lead to the top models of the 90s. Last year it was Naomi, Cindy, Carla and Helena

Another fashion king - the “king of bling”, how he calls himself,

who were the centre of attention of the Versace fashion show dedicated

Philipp Plein went “Big” by using an enormous warehouse location for

to late Gianni Versace. This year it was another top model of the 90s –

his fashion show and a team of performers and top rappers.

Shalom Harlow who was the main star of the show and proved that the top models of past years remain as

Plein is famous for his outstanding and even scandalous fashion shows

beautiful and fresh as ever.

and during this fashion week he repeated the tradition.

His show marked a real comeback to Milan after years of organizing it in NYC during the NYC fashion week. You can’t help not feeling under the influence of Plein’s personality or how he calls it “pleined” after seeing the shows of the famous German designer. Everything Philipp does is impressive, attracts attention and is connected to his strong and natural “star” attitude.

A superb huge warehouse location with a strong red light inside, huge installations with words “Superhero” and “Plein” all over the ceiling, a row of armed security, a free bar for standing spectators and a long crystal dinner table in front of the stage for VIP guests – all this made the show as impressive as it could be.

Adding the final touch was the performance with Rita Ora and Chris Brown singing on the crystal catwalk before and after the fashion show.

Later on during the evening a real company of circus and burlesque performers entertained the crowd for the after party in a grotesque and funny way. The new collection dedicated to the late Michael Jackson was a combination of sexy and glamorous outfits, mostly in black colour and leather with high boots made out of crystals worn by such famous models like Winnie Harlow and Plein’s new polish girlfriend Justina Gradek.

Definitely, one of the best collections of the last few years was presented by Donatella with the usual

Winnie Harlow was actually a real star of the Milan Fashion Week, she

ultra – feminine and sexy style, pastel and bright

opened both Plein’s and Byblos fashion shows and was present in most

colours, classic Versace print and with an exce-

of the catwalks. The top model whose skin is affected by vitiligo literally

tional cast of models.

ruled the Milan Fashion Week 2018.

Emily Ratajkowski was also one of the stars of Donatella’s “glam team” Winnie’s presence marked this MFW as totally open to diversity and

making her comeback to the catwalk after 3 years of absence. Model

meant that the times of the classic models are gone and we are now

turned actress Emily is considered to be one of the world’s most sen-

facing a different and new picture on the fashion scene. Models of all

sual women due to her amazing body and extreme popularity on In-

shapes and colours are making their way on the catwalk conquering the

ternet. She took the runway in an elegant, yet very sensual black silk

fashion reality. The world is beautiful for its diversity and the fashion

dress cinched by a padlocked belt on high platform heels and holding

scene is at last adapting to this fact.

a tiny Versace evening bag. Black silk was obviously one of the main themes of the new Versace collection considering that both Irina Sheik and Kendall Jenner were wearing similar silk pieces.

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FA S H I O N

None the less the usual celebration of femi-

and Bella sisters their main stars of the show.

make it quickly to the show I said that I actual-

ninity, Versace’s show had a slight “low key”

A true example of Italian craftsmanship Tod’s

ly was an influencer.

trend, probably due to the recent acquisition of

brand is as focused on tradition as on leather

the Versace brand by the Michael Kors Hold-

coats and dresses, comfortable footwear and

Immediately I was brought back to reality by

ings company. The news about the sale was

practical accessories. All this with a strong

a photographer standing near the special en-

released some days before the fashion show in

Mediterranean touch and warm leather col-

trance who said – “And who knows you?” Af-

Milan and the fashion community was won-

ours. The show was opened by Gigi Hadid

ter deciding that it was quite useless to explain

dering about how Versace brand could develop

wearing a light suede trench coat and carrying

who exactly knows me I found the entrance

the famous D-bag, one of the most famous bags

for press and eventually came to a thought

after it becomes

that influencers are the real top players on the modern fashion scene and their power is rising every day.

The arrival of petite Olivia Palermo and her model husband to the show stirred such enthusiasm in the crowd that no diva ever did.

Instagram bliss and influencer’s were

other

rule main

trends of Milan Fashion Week ( Spring – summer 2019) together with the best events of the week such as the Amfar Gala, Bulgari official party and the Green Carpet awards.

In the endless chain of these celebratory part of an Ameri-

ever produced by the brand.

can company.

events and in between these huge fashion shows one fact remains – no matter how the

Focusing mostly on craftsman’s traditions and

fashion scene and its players change fashion is

Both Gigi and Bella Hadid were the main mod-

all Italian style, earthy colours and practical

always alive in Milan and it is everywhere. On

els of the show due to a good friendship be-

design Tod’s continues to conquer the fashion

my way to Plein I took a taxi and the driver told

tween the sisters and Donatella Versace. The

market.

me how 20 years ago he used to drive Giorgio

Hadid sisters remain the best guarantee of suc-

Armani while he was building his empire. A

cess for any fashion show during MFW and all

Not only the sisters Hadid, but also the influ-

simple taxi driver knew more about fashion

the top brands fight their way to involve both

encers were real stars of the show held in a

history and trends than any fashion expert.

sisters in their shows.

modern art gallery in the centre of Milan. Ar-

Fashion is a part of this city and it’s a breath of

riving late to the show, I tried to enter the most

oxygen for any fashion dreamer.

The legendary and all Italian Tod’s brand was

appealing door and the staff told me it was an

also the one who made the two Hadid - Gigi

entrance reserved strictly for influencers. To

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FA S H I O N

L ondon Fashion Week R eport S/S 2019

By Angelika Bolliger

L

ondon’s autumn is as beautiful as ever this year with temperatures reaching 25 degrees Celsius, you can easily wear summer dresses and eat gelato without feeling out of place. It is fitting since we are going to look at the spring summer

fashion runways and this way we can identify with it even more.

Fashionistas took over the capital coming from New York, Paris, Milan and many other corners of the world to see what we will be wearing next season.

The fashion industry being in the lead of the UK’s economy just after the financial sector only proves that we love fashion and we are willing to go the extra mile to look good and have a unique style while still following the trend.

This year Victoria Beckham celebrated her 10th anniversary with her first London Fashion Week show. Mary Katrantzou and Erdem also reached a 10-year milestone this year making their collections retrospective. Julien MacDonald, JW Anderson, Marcus Laupfer, Jenny Packham, Gareth Pugh and Alexa Chung were among other talented designers who inspired us this fashion week.

VICTORIA BECKHAM Victoria being a controversial figure for years has proven again that she is a modern woman: ambitious, imaginative, hard working and loved by her family. She was the queen of FW this fall. Her collection was slick, chic, sporty, elegant, fresh and young.

Simple, but not boring she brought back the slim pants with a split on the bottom, my forever favourite cut. The trousers came in a variety of fabrics and colours worn with shirts or jackets or under dresses. Blue was my all time favourite. Blazers were slightly oversized with a masculine touch, models wore mid calf dresses, t-shirts and tunics some asymmetrical and others layered.

It was a very sophisticated and wearable collection.

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FA S H I O N

Victoria Beckham MARY KATRANTZOU The show was very vibrant and theatrical. Guests awaiting the presentation looked colourful and cool in the spirit of the designer’s style. Mary having studied textile design while attending the Saint Martins College in London from where she graduated in 2008 has proven that she has a mind of an artist and a scientist. Her designs are always colourful like murals or paintings. She doesn’t only focus on the colours and patterns, but the fabric itself and the shape. She is multitalented and unique which you can see in all her collections including the latest one.

The complexity of pattern, fabric and a variety of colours make her dresses one of a kind. A-line dresses covered in sprinkles or confetti or so it seems next to slim knee length or mid calf dresses in crochet fabric with fringe,

JULIEN MACDONALD Sexy does not begin to describe Julien MacDonald’s spring summer

transparent and painted on. A feast for the eyes leaving you with a craving for candy and a dress or two…

runway show. The models strutted down the catwalk wearing minuscule dresses in metallic and sheer fabrics exposing their assets. MacDonald is loved by many like Rihanna, Kate Beckinsale, Heidi Klum, Kim Kardashian and Beyonce. He is a showmen and he is an admirer of a women’s body. The dresses came in different lengths from mini to floor length with a slit in the middle. Sequins, chiffons, lurex, lame and silk seemed to have dominated the runway. Wide shoulders, skinny arms reminiscent of the 80’s fashion and highly promoted by another genius Anthony Vaccarelo for Saint Laurent. The colour palette was; orange, fuchsia, silver, sapphire blue and black. Wrap around, asymmetrical, one shoulder, multi strap and exposed midriff was the trend. I personally loved a yellow maxi dress in light chiffon and a burgundy sequin mid length dress with sharp shoulders and a deep v-neck and a split. Edgy and classy. The collection was consistent keeping with trends and following in the footsteps of other design houses like Balmain, Versace and Saint Laurent.

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FA S H I O N

ERDEM Internationally renowned for his love of exquisite fabric and experimental textiles, the founder Erdem Moraligolu is the master of print especially floral designs.

He has won many awards and has successfully collaborated with Nars to create a make up line and H&M bringing to life beautiful ideas of modern femininity.

His spring summer 2019 collection was again a feast for the eyes, an explosion of print and flowers making us feel like we were strolling through the countryside. Maxi dresses with heavy trains covered in flowers, sheer lace dresses, A-line shapes both knee length and maxi were also spotted. Some dresses sported pockets on the sides for a more modern and confident look. Capes, ruffles, layering, beekeepers headwear, sheer socks worn with pumps. It was a romantic journey thru the past, present and future offering high quality, class, timelessness, uniqueness and beauty.

ROKSANDA A leading voice in the London fashion scene, Roksanda Iiincic originally from Serbia has made her UK debut in 2005 showcasing 15 dresses that changed her life and the way we look at fashion. She incorporates her architectural knowledge with her strong sense of style and the love of a women’s form. It results in gorgeous dresses, each one unique, elaborate and timeless. This collection was all about shapes and comfort. Maxi dresses in A-line shapes with straps, 70’s princess dresses with a round neckline, long sleeves made in soft draping fabric in metallic gold (my favourite) and other colours where a hit. Oversized blazers, synched at the waist, light pale chiffon gowns with gorgeous black print over the front. Dream like…

It is quite evident that Roksanda is here to stay and we are happy about it.

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Model: Irina Morozova Designer jacket and leggings: EVA ROJE Photographer: Arni North Maison noir Boutique 29 rue de Millo , 98000 Monaco www.evaroje.com

BE AU T Y

Wellbeing

is a verb

Dr. Valeria Acampora Founder of AntiagePrescription®

If you want to improve the the quality of your

broadened my view about health and how to

life, feel & look your best and prevent age-re-

cultivate wellbeing. I realized increasing “lon-

lated diseases, visit Dr. Valeria Acampora’s

gevity” may not significantly increase “healthy

blog www.antiageprescription.com for a little

lifespan” and so “Successful Aging” became

free advice and a lot of inspiration. Dr. Valeria

my goal”.

Acampora is a Specialist Consultant Medical

YOUR WEBSITE WWW.ANTIAGEPRESCRIPTION.COM OFFERS DAILY ADVICE AND REMINDERS ABOUT WELLBEING. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE SITE YOU HAVE CREATED?

Doctor in Radiology. A few years ago Dr. Acampora went back to study, became “Board certified in Antiaging Medicine” on top of her MD, and she’s been practicing Antiaging Medicine ever since. With that addition to her already very impressive and solid resume, she decided

I love sharing science backed and research

to create a website focusing on wellbeing. It’s

driven information that my readers can inte-

a positive way to look at ourselves and at our

grate into their daily lives. I want to empower

lives, focusing on what we can proactively do to stay healthy and age “successfully”.

Ccercle talks to the cutting-edge Doctor about her upcoming blog, inspiration, and Antiage Prescription.

WHAT DOES ANTIAGING MEDICINE FOCUS ON? Antiaging Medicine is dedicated to maintain and restore your look and vitality, as well as prevent degenerative diseases; it is about helping you to realize that you don’t have to accept the fact that your health, appearance and function must deteriorate with age. If you are healthy and feel good, you can live a fulfilling life at any age. As I always tell my patients, “Your best age is now”!

people, I want them to feel good. AntiagePre-

YOU HAVE HAD A THRIVING PRACTICE FOR MANY YEARS, WHAT SPARKED THE INTEREST IN ANTIAGING MEDICINE?

scription® isn’t just for the elderly, it’s for

After working for many years as a Radiolo-

out long before you look old. Scientific studies

gist in a public hospital, I realised that there

suggest that aging starts around the mid ’20s.

was something important missing in conven-

However, how you treat your body is what will

tional Medicine: I was helping my patients to

make a difference in the long term. Wellbeing

live longer but not healthier. I was performing

is a verb. The focus of AntiagePrescription® is

diagnostic tests, writing a lot of prescriptions,

on giving you the tweaks and changes to slow

seeing people to discuss what was wrong with

down the aging process, improve the quality

them but I wasn’t helping them to live well.

of your life and enhance your wellbeing: from

I was just adding more years to their lives

energy and sleep, to concentration, memory,

spent with chronic illnesses and disabilities.

mood, libido and sexual function, nutrition,

Conventional Medicine focuses on illness,

muscle tone, skin and hair. 20% of aging is ge-

Antiaging Medicine focuses on health. Anti-

netic, the rest is in your control.

aging Medicine expanded my perspective and

74

everyone, including the young. You might assume grey hair and wrinkles are the first signs of aging, but your internal organs are worn

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A R I ST O C R AC Y

Wine M aking and the Italian A ristocracy An Interview with Gelasio Gaetani D’Aragona Lovatelli

By Catherine McQueen

A

s well as being a member of one of the oldest aristocratic families in Italy, whose history includes several Popes, Gelasio has been described as one of the greatest wine experts

in the world.

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A R I ST O C R AC Y

WORLD TRAVELER

ITALY

Gelasio feels at home in many places, he is truly a world traveler. New York is a

Whilst many places might feel like home, Italy is where

special place to him having lived and worked there and having many friends in the

he lives. He was born in Rome and loves the city, to him

city. He notes that it is a place where Italians are popular. He has also lived in Lon-

it feels like a village, wherever he goes he knows peo-

don finding the difference in English people to the more passionate Italians a good

ple, he notes that it is not a very transient place, the peo-

combination. He loves the civilized nature of the English and is a big fan of the Royal

ple don’t really change. It helps of course that the city

Family in particular the Queen whom he feels does a great job staying humble and

is steeped in his family history with a square in Rome

representing her country. He finds Brexit disappointing but understands it from the

named after them.

point of view of middle England; given that the country is an island they don’t feel so much a part of Europe. He does not feel that the same will happen in Italy, whilst

FAMILY

he accepts that the nationalist party currently in charge are not very civilized, maybe

Gelasio’s greatest passion in life is his family. A proud

that is what was needed for a while to clear up the corruption in the country. “Italy

grandfather of 5 he has 3 children with his former wife

has survived everything, they will survive this”. He also loves the wine growing

Noemi Marone Cinzano, a member of another well-

regions of the US where he often visits, such as California, Virginia and Idaho. To

known Italian family the Agnellis. He notes it has been

him the most beautiful place is British Columbia in Canada, “so unspoiled and un-

helpful that she has no financial difficulties. They remain

touched” and also Patagonia in South America where he has spent time whilst work-

great friends and she also works within the wine indus-

ing on a winery project.

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A R I ST O C R AC Y

rey. India has also started to produce some very good wines and surprisingly China is actually the second largest wine producing country in the world, although it is almost exclusively domestically consumed.

Competition from these new emerging wine producing regions is good he feels as it ultimately leads to all producers needing to improve their product

PASSIONS Like many Italians he loves everything related to beauty including beautiful women, although now his heart belongs to the Italian actress Lucrezia Lante della Rovere, whom he has been with for the last year. try, producing wine in Portugal, her father having run the Cinzano

They got together after reading an inter-

brand. Two of their children remain in Italy and one is an artist living in

view she gave to a sky diving magazine, he is also a fan of sky diving,

Brazil. He is also close to his nephews.

where she stated that she was disappointed by men and had not been in a relationship for several years and was now only interested in her dog.

THE WINE BUSINESS

He had known her for some time and had her number so he sent her

When Gelasio was in New York and California he became inspired by

a message saying they should meet up. The rest as they say is history.

the energy and passion that they had there for the wine business and so in New York he ended up in the “jungle that is wine distribution

Driving cars and motorbikes was formerly a great passion though not

there”. Tied up and complicated by the early prohibition laws and the

so much now.

31st Amendament he found it to be a fascinating system. Using this knowledge and experience when he returned to Italy in 1998 he set about transforming the family land into a vineyard. Here he produced the excellent red wine known as Argiano and ran the estate until he sold the vineyard a few years ago.

WINE AROUND THE WORLD “Climate Change is a scientific fact.

Its true the world is getting warmer”.

This has helped the surprising growth in the English wine industry. Gelasio is particularly a fan of the sparkling wine coming out of Sussex and Sur-

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A R I ST O C R AC Y

THE FUTURE Gelasio’s dream since he was a little boy was to be a film director and this is still a passion he hopes to pursue some day. He has a project that he is working on and has already had 4 books published on a wide variety of topics including wine, Italy and cars, Bentley to be specific who partnered with Gelasio as he drove a Bentley around the more beautiful parts of England and Scotland. Whilst still a work in progress he hopes at some point to make an Italian film based in part on his own experiences.

Also interested in fashion he has partnered with Milan based fashion brand Tods, the owner is a good friend of his. In 2019 they will be releasing his own clothing line based on the kind of clothes that he likes to wear.

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CHARITY

The Monte Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean

By Eugenia Smerkis

T R E ME NDO US S UCCE S S OF T HE 2 0 1 8 MO N T E - CAR LO GAL A FO R T H E G LO BAL OCE AN

I

t is hard to describe how thrilled I was to receive an exclusive invitation to be a guest at Monaco’s most important charity event - the epic Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean.

The Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean was held on 26 September 2018 on the beautiful terrace of the famous Monte-Carlo Opera where extraordinary designed settings featuring the entrance in a form of Jules Verne under the sea party, colorful projections of the sea world and dazzling crystal chandeliers were set specifically for this event.

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, the global leader in the battle to save the ocean, highly involved in the protection of the world environment, accompanied by gorgeous HSH Princess Charlene of Monaco hosted for the second time the annual Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean.

Over 700 guests including world famous celebrities, actors, models, singers, song-writers, businessmen and bankers attended the Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean to support priority marine conservation projects of HSH Prince Albert II and Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

The Foundation supports projects in three main geographical zones: the Mediterranean Basin, the Polar Regions and the Least Developed Countries and focuses its efforts on three main areas: climate change, biodiversity and water resources.

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DEST I NAT ION

The Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean was opened with a speech

Global Fundraising Chairman of the Gala was well known philanthropist

of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco who reminded guests of the threats

Milutin Gatsby.

facing the marine environment and who emphasized the importance of preserving our oceans and protecting the natural sea habitat.

Other event chairs included the world famous celebrities such as Madonna, Pierce Brosnan, Hugh Grant, Andy Garcia, Eva Longoria and others.

“HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and his Foundation are doing incredible work to protect our oceans at what is a crucial time, with so many planets’

The Gala was organized with support of the Prince Albert II of Monaco

ecosystems under threat. I am therefore delighted to be an Event Chair for

Foundation, Monaco Yacht Show, oceanographic Institute, Monaco Yacht

the 2018 Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean and proud to be support-

Club, Société des Bains de Mer and Monaco Private Label.

ing such an important cause” - said award winning singer and songwriter Robin Thicke.

During the Gala the world famous British actor and film producer Orlando Bloom who attended with his girlfriend famous singer Katy Perry was

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CHARITY

honored with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Special Award in recognition of his environmental awareness campaigning.

The Gala included amazing live performances by Gloria Gaynor, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Robert Davi, Madcon and the mentalist Lior Suchard.

The gourmet organic menu created by Michelin-starred chef Paolo Sari ideally reflected the Gala’s commitment to the sustainable management of marine and land resources.

The live auction which was conducted by the famous auctioneer Simon de Pury included lots from the world leading jewelry brands such as Chopard, Graff, Jacob & Co, De Grisogono, Orlov, Maison Vitale 1913, Les Ateliers MC by Nina & Ko, Elena Sivoldaeva, Shamballa Jewels, Repossi and others.

The stunning high jewelry collection, ‘Merveilles des Océans’ inspired by the sumptuous treasures secretly concealed by our oceans was created especially for the Monte-Carlo Gala by the Monaco jewelry company Maison Vitale 1913. Its unique piece, the Mediterranean coral pendant composed of a morganite of 31 carats, diamonds, turquoises, pearls and natural corals was donated to the Foundation and auctioned online during the Gala.

The art lots included beautiful artwork by HSH Princess Grace of Monaco; an exemplary sculpture from one of the today’s most important and influential artists, Jeff Koons; portrait of world famous supermodel Naomi Campbell by established contemporary artist Julian Schnabel; sculpture Why people can’t fly from the famous Russian designer Vasily Klyukin; unique diptych of Madonna by greatest fashion photographers Luigi & Iango to name just a few.

84

Other distinctive auction lots included a personal invitation from HSH Prince Albert II for the Monaco Formula E Prix Championship; Mick Jagger signed guitar; invitation from Madonna to go horseback riding on the beach in Portugal and others.

The auction of the Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean was a tremendous success raising substantial funds to support the sustainable ocean initiatives of HSH Prince Albert II and Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

I would like to thank HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and his Foundation for protecting our oceans and for organizing a truly unforgettable, beautiful, fun and exciting charity event for the very important cause and I very much hope to attend the Monte-Carlo Gala next year.

CHARITY

G olden Note 2018: C harity- concert

for highly gifted children

The second concert, “Golden Note” founded by Leona König took place on the 11th of March 2018 in the sold out Brahms Saal of the Musikverein of Vienna and was attended by 600 guests. Nine highly talented Violinists between the ages of 8 and 15 years old were chosen by university professor Michael Frischenschlager, Anna Gutowska from the University of Music and Performing Art of Vienna and university professor Regina Brandstätter from the University of Music and Performing Arts of Graz. Members of the Jury also included Snezana Kis from Klosterneuburg and Michaela Giradi from Graz.

The young talents demonstrated their skills to the distinguished committee, composed by Valentina Nafornita, opera singer of the Staatsoper in Vienna, Aleksey Igudesman, violinist, composer and entertainer, Clemens Unterreiner, opera singer and Paul Gulda talented pianist, who submitted the prize to the most talented child of each age category.

The winners were Kai Gergov (8 years), Fidelis Rümmele (11 years), Julia Dueñas (13 years) and Paloma Bharucha (14 years).

They were glad to receive certificates and trophies. All the participants will be given the possibility to attend master classes in order to further their musical education. These classes will take place at the Music and Dance faculty of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague this summer.

The event was under the patronage of the world famous pianist Rudolf Buchbinder. Involved were also Bernhard Ramsauer (Liechtensteinische Landesbank, main Sponsor of IMF), Daniela De Souza (fashion designer), Alexander Pereira (artistic director of La Scala in Milan), Lidia Baich (starviolinist), Amra Bergmann (stage designer), Julia Florez (wife of Juan Diego Florez), Daniel Serafin (artistic director), Harald und Inge Serafin (Ex-artistic director), Alexandra und Matthias Winkler (Hotel Sacher) and Elisabeth Himmer-Hirnigl (PR Lady).

A prize of 5000 Euros will be gifted to best child of each category and part of the prize is to play a concert with the orchestra.

“These young talents will create the melodies of the future. am very proud to know that these unique talents live in Austria,” said Leona König.

Support with Membership Whoever would like to support talents and put music in their focus, have the possibility to become a member of IMF and open a perspective in the world of music and in the work with young musicians.

A pleasant reunion also took place between three of the four winners of the Golden Note 2017. Soley Blümel (9 years old), Filip Trifu (13 years old) and Ania Druml (15 years old) played a piano piece with the Young Masters orchestra, an ensemble of highly gifted soloists from the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna and the Johann Sebastian Bach music school.

GOLDEN NOTE 2019

More information on http://im-foundation.com

for the best chamber musicians will take place on March 22th, 2019 at 7 pm in the Wiener Konzerthaus. A prestigious distinguished committee composed by Dominique Meyer , director of the Vienna state Opera , Tibor Kovac musician of the Vienna Philharmoniker , Alma Deutscher child prodigy, composer and violinist 13 years old, will prize the young talents.

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EVENT

COACHELLA

By Talita Correa

T

here’s the Coachella that people see from the outside, a place that has become increasingly commercial with every passing year. The music, the fashion, the parties, these are all part of the Coachella experience,

but for me after many years of attending, the “thing” that makes Coachella is my group of friends. Once you become an adult, you don’t get to spend as much time with your friends and being able to have everyone together is definitely the best part.

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EVENT

I’ll never forget my first Coachella, because it was the coldest Coachella in history! I was so excited to go, and I had no idea what to expect other than the desert would be hot. So, what happens? Crazy weather. It was cold and windy. All the people there said they had never seen anything like it. Nevertheless, the cold weather couldn’t put a damper on the experience. It was love at first sight. I can still remember pulling into the parking lot and walking towards the entrance, the excitement building with each passing step.

That’s the main thing that’s hard to quantify, the energy in the air – it’s just powerful and filled with excitement and anticipation. I can still see it – thousands of people in the distance as far as the eye could see all moving in different directions. Once inside, our group said we were going to “walk the field” of course I had no idea what this meant. Put simply we were going to walk from the Main Stage VIP area to the Rose Garden. This traverse takes about 10 minutes and it’s like walking down an endless parade of sensory overload. That’s when it hit me, I looked up and it was Magic Hour.... The time when dusk makes the light in the sky turn Coachella into something truly other-worldly. This magic hour is not to be missed – that’s why every year I’ve been to Coachella, I insist on getting to the Polo Grounds before the sun sets.

So, what makes Coachella, Coachella? There are a lot of music festivals around the world, why is this one special? For starters it’s a lot more than a music festival. There’s the Coachella Music Festival at the Polo Grounds and then there’s the Coachella Weekend. The festival is awesome, but it’s just part of the experience. The weekend is a big party that goes from Thurs-

day evening until Monday morning. It includes among other things, lots of walking, lots of driving, lots of food, lots of drinking, lots of dancing, lots of swimming, lots of laughing, and a little bit of sleeping.

My friends and I normally rent a house in La Quinta, which is 10 minutes from the festival. The house is like base camp. First, there’s always a party or event in Coachella outside the festival itself. You can party till the sun comes up listening to deep house at some mid-century modern mansion or see and be seen at one of the sponsored daytime pool parties that happen every year. But the time at the house is precious. We normally BBQ, swim, and just hang out. It’s a collection of characters all congregating and looking

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to start Spring off with a bang, plus there’s normally some type of drama to keep things interesting.

The outfits...I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the outfits.

I try not to go overboard but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t plan my clothes ahead of time. It’s taken years, but I’ve figured out how to feel awesome in my clothes and yet still be comfortable enough to walk around for 6 hours at a time. I promise, this is no easy feat.

The weekend is a whirlwind. It’s goes by so fast. It’s nonstop, yet it hits all your senses, visually, acoustically, and spiritually. For me, Coachella is friends and Coachella is fun. What’s better than that?

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EVENT

Burning M an 2018

By Julie Tronhuus

I

was in Cancun, Mexico. I went by myself. Travelling solo is a great way to reconnect, spending time in nature in silence. I travel away to get closer to me. I love travelling to new places that I have never been before. I was sit-

ting at this local juice bar having breakfast before heading back home to LA. My girlfriend in NYC called me. She had a friend who was selling his Burning Man ticket. I bought it right away. It is difficult to get a hold of the tickets as they get sold out right away. I went to Burning Man a couple of days later, it was very last minute, and you need to prepare everything as you are in the middle of desert without any stores. When I finally entred the event at Black Rock Desert, about 140 miles north of Reno, it was midnight. The whole desert was glowing in the dark in neon colors. It was glowing like a huge city. I had never seen anything like this ever before. A guy by the entrence greeted me with a big hug and a smile.

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EVENT

As it was my first time at Burning Man ever, I had to roll around in the dust and ring a big bell. It is a tradition as you are officially now a «burner».

Burning Man is a set of ten vaguely utopian principles, including radical self-expression, decommodification, and leaving no trace.

Everyone is very aware about taking care of our planet, therefore everyone is never leaving any garbage or «foot steps». Most people put up this mask they wear in society. At Burnig Man, this mask is off. The burners were open, caring, kind, and themself all the way.

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EVENT

It is very much about self-expression, either it is minimalism or having

tiful, conscious, loving people from all over the world. I learned so much

extreme, artistic costumes.

by listening actively to everyone I was having a conversation with. People there really want to share their passions and information with you. I re-

The people there hug strangers with love, actually there are no strangers

ally discovred how addcited and affected I am by constantly checking my

at The Playa. Everyone is family. I had true human connections with peo-

phone. One week without using my phone at all and truly enjoying every

ple I had just met. We were talking like we have known each other our

moment without trying to snap chat it was life changing.

whole lifes. I have never met more generous people, and everyone has no expectations about recieving anything from each other.

Lets talk about the landscape. Watching the sunrise in the middle of the desert with new friends listening to amazing djs playing music, while be-

At The Palya currencies does not exist, you have to bring everything you

ing surronded by art cars and art instalations was pure magic. It is im-

need in order to survive in the desert

possible to describe Burning Man, you have to go in order to understand

for your stay there. Gifting is a big

how magical it truly is. It do change you. After spending a week in the

part of the culture . The best part,

desert dancing to the sunrise, talking to strangers as if you knew them

there is no connection out there. No

your whole life, laughing, crying, meditating, listening, and discovering

wifi/intertnet for a week! Imagine

new sides of yourself, you will learn so much about life. Especially as the

90,000 people in the present moment

Burning Man community is built up of people from all over the world.

having the time of their lives. Alive

Burning Man is so much more than a festival. It is a culture. Tens of thou-

and awake! You will bike around and

sands of “burners” live together for about a week, participating in activ-

see workshops, yoga classes, medita-

ities, contributing art, and at the end watching a giant wooden figure, or

tions, dancing, concerts, grab some

“The Man” burn to the ground.

food, go to events, and see the most spectacular art you could ever im-

I have never felt more free. For me meeing all of these incredible, unique

agine, and your are always invited to

loving people and watching all the incredible art inspired me, now I un-

everything!

derstod that anything is possible. It is all up to our imagniation. I am now trying to bring everything I learned from this week into my daily life. It

For me, the people I met there was the biggest gift. I met the most beau-

was an amazing experience, which I will never forget. I have never felt more alive and yet free as a bird!

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is

Because Bali A lways a G ood I dea…

By Anya Labonville

T

his past April, I decided that for my birthday I wanted to explore an entirely new and exotic location that was different from the European destinations I’ve frequented. It was the first solo trip I was about to

embark on, and as I had never been anywhere in Asia, I decided to go to Bali.

My trip that was supposed to only be for two weeks lasted a total of five. This was partially due to a motorcycle accident, but more so because I enjoyed it so much, I couldn’t bring myself to leave. I heard a lot about the natural beauty of the lush Balinese landscapes, the spiritual nature of the island, the world-renowned spa and massage treatments and of course the beach and day clubs. I stayed in different parts of the island to see how each area is unique and to get a feel for the island overall, which I highly recommend anyone who goes to Bali.

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Uluwatu, located on the southern tip of Bali, was one of my favorite areas. Uluwatu Temple, which is a big attraction, located on a steep cliff 70 meters above sea level, and thought to be one of Bali’s spiritual pillars. At the entrance of the temple, you go through a mini version of the acclaimed monkey forest where you see a plethora of monkeys that come right up to you with no fear whatsoever. One of the girls from my tour actually got her phone stolen by a baby monkey! Luckily she got it back. Once you get past the monkey forest, you come onto a narrow path alongside the cliff by the ocean, which takes you to the actual temple. With the ocean mist and gleaming sunlight throughout the area, it’s a magical place with good energy to ponder about life.

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Furthermore, aside from this beautiful attraction, some of my favorite beaches and beach clubs are located in Uluwatu. Karma is a tranquil private beach club located along Bukit Peninsula (Billionaires Row), and includes villa residences with stunning views and architecture overlooking the Indian Ocean. There is a cable car that brings you to and from the beach club and fits roughly 7 people at a time. The beach at this particular club, in my opinion, is one of the better beaches I visited there due to the seclusion of the beautiful lagoon, which features turquoise blue water and a stunning outdoor dining experience, and close proximity to other beach clubs such as the brand new beach club launched by Hakkasan Group, Omnia.

Omnia has a very different vibe from Karma. It is my personal favorite all-day club perched upon a plateau offering unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean and provides a number of multi-decked infinity pools and pool bars, perfect for watching the sunset. It also offers delicious cuisine from an authentic Japanese restaurant, Sake No Hana, from Mayfair, London. I was lucky enough to attend Omnia’s formal grand opening parties while I was there, with full VIP experience. The official opening, which happened on the last weekend of April, 2018 offered a line-up of world famous DJs including Marshmallo, Martin Garrix, and Richie Hawtin to close off the weekend. The excitement

Ubud is located roughly an hour north of the airport and is home to

of even the most jaded jet-setters was palpable due to the picturesque

many local crafts and arts. It is surrounded by lush rice paddies and

landscape where the DJ’s electrified the crowd with their music. After

rolling, green hills as far as the eye can see. Words really cannot do

the excitement of that weekend, I retreated to the lush rice paddies of

this majestic place justice. The slopes of the paddies and unique irri-

Ubud for some solace and relaxation.

gation system make for truly scenic photos, and for excellent exer-

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T R AV E L

cise as you traverse about the terrain. I also went to

views of the ocean and garden scenery as well. I

the Tirta Empul Holy Spring Water Temple whilst in

highly recommend the flower bath, which makes for

Ubud, which is dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu,

very instagrammable photos, and leaves your skin

and was constructed in the 10th century. While this

feeling soft and supple. Additionally, the facial using

grand temple is a popular tourist spot, many Balinese

sea quartz and diamond dust was by far one of the

locals visit this temple as well for purification from

best facial treatments I’ve received and left my face

past transgressions from its two sets of fountains, and

glowing for weeks.

prepares one to receive blessings. On my way back to Uluwatu, however, I got into a motorcycle accident

All in all, I can say that Bali is truly a magical desti-

due to dense traffic which left my leg scraped up in a

nation worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. If

pretty bad condition. A word of advice: try to always

I don’t go back again this winter, I definitely will the

wear long pants on the back of motorcycles in Bali!

following year. It is such a large island that offers so many things to see and do for every type of person,

One of my favorite parts about my trip was the in-

my five-week stay certainly wasn’t enough to accom-

credible Balinese massages and various spa treat-

plish everything. Next time I go, I’d like to spend some

ments that were offered. My favorite spa experience

more time exploring more remote parts of the island

was at the renowned Ayana Resort, which is located

I didn’t get to on this trip. I’d like to find lesser-known

on a cliff overlooking the ocean with blooming flow-

waterfalls and hiking terrains, and learn more about

ers and greenery. Treatment rooms offer 360-degree

the Balinese culture, and of course, work on my tan!

A hotel with more charm than luxury, more elegance than formality and more choice than waste in the heart of Veneto. A landing place and not a place to transit: a perfect mix of progress and tradition. The hallmark of the 5 Star hotel AbanoRITZ is not opulence, but hospitality, tranquility, comfort and exclusivity. Time for yourself, time earned. At the AbanoRITZ you will be immersed in a suggestive atmosphere. An environment expertly designed and managed directly by the Poletto family, a great family that is and has always been an example and a mix of different generations and that has turned hospitality into a profession, a vocation. The AbanoRITZ has always followed its path believing in the value of tradition and has invested in the passion for progress, as we think that those who don’t have a past will have no future.

We wanted tourism to have a human side: that of the Poletto family, of the people who work with them and especially that

Abano Ritz Spa

& Wellfeing Resort

of the many guests who every year reward us with their trust. Offering a way of doing business, faithful to the

choose the AbanoRITZ again and very warm welcome to our guests is our authenticity of our proposal and proud of our 50 years of work.

AbanoRitz Thermae & Wellness Hotel Abano Terme - Padua - Italy Tel.+390498633100 hotelabanoritz.com

PL AC E

Kube Saint -Tropez L uxurious D esign Paired With A Panoramic M editerranean View

T

he seaside city of Saint-Tropez has learnt to preserve the wild authenticity from its colourful past while maintaining an unwavering loyalty to its inhabitants and regular visitors year after year. This authenticity continues alongside

new fashion trends and excited new lovers that visit the elegant marina for the first time, finding themselves stuck in time somewhere between a postcard seaside resort and jet-set millionaire’s temple. At the heart of this landscape is Kube Saint Tropez, welcoming you to the French Riviera in the most exquisite way possible.

The majestic resort seduces us with geometric architecture 5 minutes from SaintTropez city center. The spectacular 360° view over the Gulf is a different piece of art every sunrise and sunset.

Promises… luxury and voluptuousness through 2 universes and 3 swimming pools.

KØØL side: minimalist lines, 41 rooms infusing comfort with technology, jacuzzi terraces and 2 “IBIZA”-style suites that offer private gardens, gently shaded by bioclimatic pergolas and exclusive pool access, available soon. KLUB side: 27 rooms partitioned into 5 villas, each one made with natural, raw materials, including one privatizable villa with a sea view, kitchen, dining room and 2 living rooms.

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PL AC E

Promises… savours and delicacies: The Maris restaurant proposes a

and beyond. For those who love a good food/wine pairing, the diverse

creative, healthy menu with provincial nuances. The Inka restaurant

wine list will delight your taste buds beyond the culinary. Make sure to

sends you on a voyage across the globe, offering you various cock-

ask for the season’s recommendations.

tails and dishes with different inspirations depending on the moment.

Open to everyone, these 2 concepts will allow you to discover our 5*

Promises… well-being and magic: The Kube Saint-Tropez Spa has

Resort in the most delicious way possible. The Head Chef of Marius

been created alongside the L’Oréal brand Carita, and offers a holistic

restaurant, Armand Esbelin, stays true to his style with a full gastro-

vision of beauty care. Cultivating the art of massage with a menu of

nomic menu that honours the Provencal flavors at every meal, as well

exquisitely tailored skincare, the team uses both Carita and Decléor

as full creative flair on each and every item on the menu. You and your

products in order to perfectly tailor your skincare experience to your

loved ones will be welcomed with a private table and a pure moment

needs. The exclusive products from both brand ranges are made with

of relaxing pleasure under the terrace’s peacefully shaded seating are-

natural blends that include essential oils, perfect for highlighting the

as, next to the cypress trees and overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

perfect balance between powerful active ingredients and soft tech-

Throughout lunch, afternoon tea, “apéro” and dinner, you will be

nology, opening the way for new care rituals. In the Spa, you will

pampered with Mediterranean delights that combine everything that

find a peaceful haven of 300m2, which has been built to soothe your

is greedy with everything else that is healthy, in order to bring you

mind and body between luxuriously soft lighting, cozy hammams and

a beautifully hedonistic meal. On the menu you will find artistic and

steamy saunas, for a fully idyllic experience. The Kube Saint-Tropez

indulgent dishes full of Mediterranean colours, from olive green to

Spa also includes a Franck Provost hairdresser and is accessible to

lemon yellow, and for those who want to enjoy an exotic experience,

non-residents.

head for the Inka restaurant to indulge in a special tapas dinner full to the brim with Peruvian flavours topped off with a luxurious French

Promises… art and festivities: In 2019, Kube Saint-Tropez celebrates its

flair, bringing together hot and cold, sweet and spicy, and more. The

10th birthday with an exclusive events calendar, art collaborations and

Inka restaurant reveals the secrets of the high Andes through the tran-

other surprises. The Sky Bar will prepare several key events through-

scendence of its colourful palette, travelling through ancient folklore

out the season, as it did in 2018, and this time with even more pomp

in each course and brought to you in such a way that you can explore

and circumstance than before, so keep your eyes on our social media

these exotic secrets in peace. To complete the experience, join us with

pages for more information on VIP dates and DJs.

a hungry stomach and also an open mind, in order to discover the

Instagram : @kubesainttropez

new creations of our barmen infused with Pisco or Mezcal. Our bar

https://www.instagram.com/kubesainttropez/

teams are experts in mixology and these cocktails are inspired by the

Facebook : @kubesttropez https://www.facebook.com/kubesttropez/

award-winning bars of the group Machefert Hotels Collection in Paris

The promise of a unique experience to be discovered here: www.kubehotel-saint-tropez.com

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C C E R C L E PA R T N E R H O T E L S

The Peninsula Paris

Mandarin Oriental Paris

Hotel de Sers Paris

Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel Paris

California Champs Elysees Paris

Hotel Chateau Frontenac Paris

Hotel de Vendome Paris

Hotel Hyatt Paris Madeleine Paris

Le Royal Monceau Raffles SPA Paris

InterContinental Avenue Marceau Paris

Hotel Sofitel Paris Arc de Triomphe Paris

Hotel Regina Paris

San Regis Paris

Lancaster Paris

Hotel Montalembert Paris

Hotel Rochester Champs Elysees Paris

Hotel Splendid Etoile Paris

Cheval Blanc Courchevel Courchevel

Le Lana Courchevel

Le K2 Altitude Courchevel

Le K2 Palace Courchevel

Le Saint Roch Courchevel

Alpes du Pralong Courchevel

Hotel Annapurna Courchevel

L’Apogée Courchevel

Hotel Manali Courchevel

Hotel Barriere Les Neiges Courchevel

Hotel Le Strato Courchevel

La Sivoliere Courchevel

Le Chabichou Courchevel

Carlina Courchevel

La Pomme de Pin Courchevel

Hotel Alpaga Megeve

JW Marriott Cannes

Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel & Thalasso Cannes

Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez Cannes

Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Nice

Boscolo Exedra Nice

La Perouse Nice

Fairmont Monte Carlo

C C E R C L E PA R T N E R H O T E L S

Palazzo Naiadi Rome

Ambasciatori Palace Hotel Rome

Aldrovandi Villa Borghese Rome

Hotel de Russie Rome

Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese Rome

Hotel Majestic Rome

Rome Cavalieri, Waldorf Astoria Rome

Grand Hotel Ritz Rome

NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento Rome

Grand Hotel Plaza Rome

Grand Hotel Via Veneto Rome

Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort, Manciano

Principe di Savoia Milan

Excelsior Gallia Milan

Bulgari Milan

Grand Hotel et de Milan Milan

Four Seasons Milan

Mandarin Oriental Milan

Hotel Manzoni Milan

Hotel Magna Pars Milan

Melia Hotel Milan

Palazzo Matteotti, The Dedica Anthology, Milan

Savoia Grand Hotel Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cristallo, A Luxury Collection Resort&Spa, Cortina d’Ampezzo

Rosapetra SPA Resort Cortina d’Ampezzo

Hotel Danieli Venice

Hilton Molino Stucky Venice

Bauer Palazzo Venice

Monaco and Grand Canal Venice

Four Seasons Florence

Westin Excelsior Florence

Savoy Florence

Portrait Florence

Hotel Villa Cora Florence

Hotel Principe Forte dei Marmi Forte dei Marmi

Grand Hotel Continental Siena

Grand Hotel Majestic Già Baglioni Bologna

Due Torri Hotel Verona

Verdura Resort Taormina

Royal Hotel Sanremo Sanremo

C C E R C L E PA R T N E R H O T E L S

Abano Ritz Spa & Wellfeeling Resort, Abano Terme

Sacher Vienna

The Ritz-Carlton Vienna

Bristol Vienna

Melia Hotel Vienna

Fairmont Rey Juan Carlos I Barcelona

London Hilton on Park Lane London

The Grosvenor London

The Connaught London

The Kensington Hotel London

Flemings Mayfair London

The Stafford London

St James Hotel and Club London

Marriott Marble Arch London

Hilton London Paddington London

The Bailey’s Hotel London

Metropolitan by Como London

Dukes London

The Courthouse Hotel London

The May Fair Hotel London

Baglioni London

Bulgari London

Westbury Mayfair London

London Marriott Hotel Park Lane London

The Montcalm At Brewery London City, London

ME London London

The Waldorf Hilton London

The Savoy London

London Marriott Hotel West India Quay, London

The Chelsea Harbour Hotel London

Marriott County Hall London

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa Bath

Lainston House Winchester

The Grand Hotel Eastbourne Eastourne

Tylney Hall Hotel Hook

Raithwaite Estate Whitby

Chewton Glen Hotel Hampshire

South Lodge West Sussex

Cliveden House Buckinghamshire

Danesfield House Hotel and SPA Buckinghamshire

C C E R C L E PA R T N E R H O T E L S

Stoke Park, Country Club, Spa and Hotel, Buckinghamshire

Ashdown Park Hotel East Sussex

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian, Edinburgh

Rocco Forte Balmoral Hotel Edinburgh

Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Kempinski Geneva

Beau-Rivage Geneva

Gstaad Palace Gstaad

The Alpina Gstaad

Grand Park Hotel Gstaad

Le Grand Bellevue Gstaad

Ermitage Wellness and Spa Hotel Gstaad

Ultima Gstaad

Hotel de Rougemont Rougemont

The Chedi Andermatt

Mont Cervin Palace Zermatt

Tschuggen Grand Hotel Arosa

Hotel Eden Roc Ascona

BEATUS Wellness & Spa Hotel Merligen-Thunersee

Carlton Hotel St Moritz

Kempinski Grand Hotel Des Bains St Moritz

Kulm St Moritz

Grand Kronenhof St Moritz

Monopol St Moritz

Giardino St Moritz

Steffani Hotel St Moritz

Cresta Palace Celerina

Walther Hotel Pontersina

Saratz Hotel Pontersina

Crans Ambassador Crans Montana

Grand Hotel du Golf & Palace Crans Montana

Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano

W Verbier

Chalet d’Adrien Verbier

Widder Hotel Zurich

Baur au Lac Zurich

Park Hyatt Zurich

The Dolder Grand Zurich

Alden Suite Hotel SplĂźgenschloss Zurich

Blythswood Square Glasgow

POLO

Villa A Sesta Polo C lub

T

hanks to the impeccable organisation of the FIP European Championships-Quantocoin Cup, the Villa a Sesta Polo Club (Ripaltella, Bucine), in Tuscany, is right now listed among Europe’s top locations

for the most ancient of equestrian sports. The fourteen teams representing ten nations that paraded through Arezzo’s historic centre, three hundred and fifty polo ponies, three polo fields for the matches, perfect weather conditions, two medals won by Italy (gold for the men’s team and silver for the ladies), an intense social calendar and the many spectators attending the finals, all made the 2018 event held on the border between the provinces of Siena and Arezzo a really memorable occasion. It was so memorable that Riccardo Tattoni, the entrepreneur who almost twenty years ago started the Villa a Sesta Polo Club project in a particularly enchanting corner of the Chianti Classico region, has been awarded the prestigious title of FIP Ambassador by the International Polo Federation.

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POLO

The Villa a Sesta Polo Club is situated within a wine and olive oil producing farm set in the enchanting Tuscan countryside famous all over the world for its typical characteristics. The farm extends over 1,100 hectares where nature is the incomparable host to facilities that are technically the very best provided by a world-level polo club and with a hospitality that guarantees buildings that are perfect for Tuscany’s context of excellence and the life-style linked to polo.

This club is equipped with facilities that rank it in the top list of European polo grounds and for some time now has been the Italian headquarters for top level Argentinean players, in particular Francisco and Eduardo Menendez, for years among the most competitive leading players at the most important tournaments.

There are three technically world-class international-sized polo fields (all in Tifton) as well as a practice field. The main no. 1 field measures 260 x 140 metres, field no. 2 measures 245 x 120 metres, and the new Sorleone field (no. 3) measure 276 x 150 metres, with the practice field measuring 120 x 70 metres.

Argentinean Alejandro Battro, the world’s no. 1 in the creation, upkeep and maintenance of polo fields (among them the Palermo Stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina, considered the cathedral of world polo) is personally responsible for the Villa Sesta fields.

for beginners throughout the year as well as training sessions and matches for players of all levels. Eduardo Menendez is available for private and group lessons, guaranteeing the highest possible safety levels for both riders and horses. The club provides all the necessary equipment for those who are beginners and new to this exciting sport.

The Club was founded in 2000 and, from the very start, every single project has been planned and implemented with meticulous attention paid to technique, environmental impact and the wellbe-

Inaugurated in 2017, the “Sorleone” field is not only the largest in Europe but also close to the private lake, an ideal location for drinks and relaxing after matches.

ing of horses and players.

The most important event hosted before the 2018 European Championships was the European Play Off for the 2011 World

The Villa Sesta Polo Club has 180 permanent stables for the polo season with room for a further 280 temporary stables as well as 80 stables during the winter.

The Polo Club’s impeccable organisation is entrusted to Argentina’s Juan Luciano Bozzi, a polo manager with great experience, who also organises courses

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Championships; an extremely successful event both technically and with spectators and one that launched the club to the very top in the world of international polo.

POLO

A GREAT ITALIAN TEAM WINS GOLD AT THE EUROPEAN POLO CHAMPIONSHIPS. SILVER FOR THE ITALIAN LADIES TEAM Thirteen years after winning the championship in 2005 in Amsterdam, Italy has won back the title in the 12th FIP European Polo Championship–Quantocoin Cup at the Villa a Sesta Polo Club (Ripaltella - Bucine/ Arezzo). In the final match for the gold medal, the Italian team, which included Gualtiero Giori (captain), Nicolas Lopes Fuentes and brothers Tomas and Martin Joaquin, soundly defeated Azerbaijan 8 – 4.

Italy’s victory was never up for discussion as they took a 3-0 lead in the first chukka, with coach Eduardo Menendez’ team increasing its lead guaranteeing victory in the third of the four chukkas played.

Nicolas Lopes Fuentes was the real hero in the match scoring six goals.

The other Italian goals were scored by brothers Tomas and Martin Joaquin.

bitter end and won the silver medal. Following last year’s gold won in Chantilly, they have now confirmed they are at the top of the ranking for ladies’ polo in Europe.

In this 12th FIP European Polo Championship the bronze medal went to Ireland after beating Germany 5.5-5 in the final for third and fourth place, while the bronze medal in the 2nd FIP European Polo Ladies Championships was won by The Netherlands, who beat France 9 ½ - 3.

FACTS & NUMBERS 350 polo ponies in the championship Azerbaijan, a team that made its European Championship debut and was the 10 teams playing in the 12th FIP European Polo Championship-Quangreat surprise in Villa a Sesta, fought bravely. The skills shown by the ‘Land tocoin Cup of Fire’ team in the four qualifying matches, however, showed their significant • Group A: Azerbaijan, Ireland, Austria, France and Slovakia technical progress and competitiveness. The Azeris will have an exciting chance • Group B: Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland and Slovakia to get their own back in two years time at the next FIP European Polo Champi- 4 teams in the FIP Ladies European Polo Championship onships that will be played in 2020 in Azerbaijan.

• France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands 10 days of matches

In the Ladies final, the Italian Ladies Team were able to do little to oppose the 30 matches played powerful German team that won by a convincing 9 - 4 ½ goals.

The girls Ginevra D’Orazio, Ginevra Visconti and sisters Vittoria and Costanza The next FIP European Polo Championship will be played in 2020 in Marchiorello – led from the sidelines by coach Franco Piazza – fought to the Azerbaijan

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I N CON V E R SAT ION W I T H

Jean-M anuel Rozan

T

he French former options trader turned investor and co-founder of Qwant, the search engine that respects your privacy and does not keep your personal data, talks to Ccercle about the highs and lows of building a successful tech start up.

HOW DID YOU START YOUR CAREER ?

I moved to the US in 1976 to study for an MBA at Wharton. After graduating in 1980 I stayed in New York where I started working for Salomon Brothers. I then moved to the American Stock Exchange as the first European trading options on the floor. Following on from this I was hired as the global head options trader for Shearson Lehman, the precursor to Lehman Brothers. In 1988 I moved back to France, first working for a bank and then setting up an investment advisory firm advising family offices on their global strategy.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF YOUR SUCCESSFUL INVESTMENTS ?

In 1996 we funded an Israeli Technology Fund to invest in Israeli technology and were able to exit three years later for a ten times return. We then funded a telephone company in Brazil called GVT Holdings. In 2005 we took the company public and in 2009 we sold it to Vivendi. This investment was extremely profitable for my clients.

WHAT LED YOU TO START QWANT ?

In 2010 I met my Business partner Eric Leandri, who convinced me to start Qwant, which we formed in 2011. Eric could already see the coming problem of surveillance capitalism, of the hoarding and monetization of personal data and the invasion of people’s privacy in the hands of the Internet giants. That is why we decided to provide an alternative. This is where I often believe that there is a confusion. Of course it is ambitious to want to create an alternative to such big services as Google but never did we say or think that we could beat Google. That would not be serious or credible. However, we firmly believe that there is a need for a place on the Internet that people can be comfortable with, that people can trust, where we use organic, clean data without tracking you. Where we give our users a value proposition that is simple, honest, different and understandable. One hundred percent of the 80 million visits that we have per month, which is also growing 10% per month, come from people who understand and support this value proposition.

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I N CON V E R SAT ION W I T H

HOW DO YOU THINK EUROPE COULD BETTER SUPPORT ITS START-UPS ?

1 company worth $100Billion. Europe should support its companies very strongly, in the same way that China and the US support their companies

In Europe around 500 million people use the Internet. Google has a 97%

and at the moment this is not the case. There should be preferential treat-

market share. In the United States they only have around a 64% market

ment for local companies large and small and anti trust laws for foreign

share thanks to the US anti trust laws and in China they are not even allowed

companies who are dominant. In some cases they do not even pay taxes

to operate. In reality in Europe no one should be able to have more than a

coming to Europe. Europe should promote anti trust laws for all companies

70% market share, neither the large European or non European companies.

foreign or not. Europe should reserve 30% space for European companies

That would help European companies big or small especially those involved

and European administrations and public institutions should use European

in the industries of the future, such as digital, to grow and to flourish. Eric

services first. The GAFA’s should pay tax in Europe on the profits that they

and I think that it is better to create 100 companies worth $1Billion that

realize there, which is quite easy to estimate.

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I N CON V E R SAT ION W I T H

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF STARTING QWANT ?

In the beginning it was very difficult. The lowest point was two to three years after launch because there was a lot of skepticism, technical problems and also money problems. However now it is the opposite, every day there are new highs, we are gaining more users all the time including several large corporations as well as the French Ministry of Defense. The French Ministry of Education is putting Qwant Junior in all of its schools. Also investors are now coming to us, looking to invest.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE ON LAUNCHING A TECH START UP ?

I am not technologically minded, Eric is. If you are looking to start a technology company then you need to find partners who understand technology and whom you can trust. The technology involved in setting up a search engine is obviously very complicated otherwise everyone would be doing it. Also address yourself to a wide need. In France I was once offered to invest in a start up that would tell you the bakeries where they had fresh croissants straight out of the oven. Well that’s very nice but really how large is the need for that, how big can your customer base be ? Try to find something that if it works it can be used by many people.

Often people forget this. Also build a good team.

HOW DO YOU THINK ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE WILL SHAPE THE FUTURE ?

Artificial Intelligence is based on huge amounts of data, Qwant has this data it just does not have this data on ‘you’. The data that is used in Artificial Intelligence can be used in a way that helps people. For example, doctors getting the right medicine to the people who need it, and the right surgery. Progress is a good thing, each wave creates its own benefits and problems. Tomorrow’s technology solves the problems that today’s technology created. Looking as an example at the pesticide problem. In the last 100 years pesticide has helped us to feed millions of people, but now we realize that it is a problem. I am sure that in 15 years time we will not be using pesticide, as someone somewhere will have invented something better. Progress is coming, we need to accept that and just make sure that it is used for the good of the people and is well intentioned.

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SOCIAL SEASON

queenie

@ annabel’s,

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london

SOCIAL SEASON

leon bukst , julia dilua cocktail exhibition in moscow

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SOCIAL SEASON

monika bacardi ’ s birthday party in st . tropez

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SOCIAL SEASON

cartier queen ’ s cup final

2018 in guards polo club

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SOCIAL SEASON

margherita and paola ’ s party in cala di volpe

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SOCIAL SEASON

a midsummer nights dream party by t . r . h . prince and princess of bourbon two - sicilies and and caroline scheufele in st tropez

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