The tattoo edition
March 2015 Issue 21
ED’S NOTE
“Show me a man with a tattoo and I’ll show you a man with an interesting past.” ― Jack London I’m a huge fan of tattooed people. ‘But what is going to happen when you are older?’, people are always telling me. Really? Well, I’ll just have awesome stories to tell my grandkids then! At the moment, I just have one tattoo, but after putting this issue together I am very excited to start planning my next one. Do you have a tattoo you want to share with me? Put your tattoos on our Facebook or Twitter wall, or pop me an email. Let’s share the tattoo love. Another than tattoos, we have a full magazine of food explorations, travelling in our own city and book recommendations. And, of course, competitions! Enjoy the read! I have one tattoo, although this is actually my second! My first tattoo was a Goblin on my back which I got when I was about 19, but years later I didn’t like it all that much. I decided to go for a cover up. My mom is my best friend and I have always called her my wise owl. So what better way to honour her than to have her on my back, always looking out for me. I absolutely love my tattoo and I cannot wait to do another one. I know exactly what I want, but won’t be revealing it just yet. All I know is that I finally want to have it where everyone can see. My thoughts on tattoos: If you want one, just go for it. It’s a beautiful form of self-expression and a hell of a lot of fun. Isn’t that what life should be about anyway? Fun! - Christine I have a tattoo on my calf that I got a few months ago. I basically wanted to get something that represented what I was passionate about and finally I decided on two things - photography and travel. So I ended up getting a camera with planet earth in the lens because I never want to stop taking pictures of new places. I definitely want to get more ink done. I’m thinking of getting a sleeve done next, but am still unsure on the subject matter. - Warren
Please feel free to contact me if you’d like to contribute articles or whether you’d like to advertise in an upcoming magazine. We’d love to get to know you and to shamelessly promote your company! Yours in Coffee, Christine christine@flatwhiteconcepts.com www.flatwhiteconcepts.com
@FW_Concepts
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Contents
TASTE
Recipe: Home-made Chilli Poppers Four and Twenty Cafe EB Cafe VickyCristina’s
CREATE
Mom’s with Tattoos - Cindy Alfino Mom’s with Tattoos - Dina Dos Santos Mom’s with Tattoos - Claire Bischoff Tattoos in the Corporate World - Sam Wright Tattoo Artists - Jake, Sin on Skin Tattoo Artists - Clint, Skin Trade Tattoo Artists - Derek, Metal Machine Soouthern Guild
DISCOVER
A Tourist in my own city - The Blue/Purple Tour 2014 Book Reviews
COMPETITIONS Win Win Win!
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Home-made Chilli Poppers When the lovely man’s birthday came around, we played around with ideas of eating out and restaurants to choose from, but all he wanted was a home made Mexican feast. We had all the standards – chilli con carne, tortillas, sour cream, guacamole, cheddar – and decided to make chilli poppers to start the feast. I hunted for pickled Jalapeno chillies (what we normally use) but could not find them anywhere. I found large, fresh chillies at my local supermarket, and decided to try and pickle them myself. Feeling like the perfect little wife-to-be I was rather chuffed with myself – until we started eating them. Somehow in between me pickling them and Luke slitting and stuffing them, we had forgotten to remove the seeds. They were scorchingly, mind-blowingly hot – so much so, that they gave me hiccups. I tried to soak my lips and tongue in milk, but it didn’t help. We were devastated. We were so looking forward to eating the fruits of our labour, but just couldn’t. We’ll never forget for next time though…
Method: Remove the seeds from your chillies. In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese and feta until evenly distributed. In another bowl mix the Chilli Bite Mix (with water, according to packet instructions). Heat about 10cm of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan. While you’re waiting for this to heat, you can start your assembly line : start by slitting your chillies horizontally down the side, and stuffing with the cheese mixture – we found a teaspoon best for this. As soon as they are stuffed, and your oil is hot (test it by dropping a little of the batter into the saucepan – it should sizzle immediately) dip them into the chilli bite batter, letting the excess drip off, and laying them gently into your pan of oil – we found placing them “horizontally” into the pan worked best. Remove from the pan as soon as they are brown on all sides, making sure not to overcrowd your pan.
We coated them in a very South African Chilli Bite Mix (available here for overseas readers) – a By Candice Bresler spiced flour mix that is simply added with water www.agorgeouslife.co.za and fried, they are the instant, perfect coating for these poppers. You can of course make your own flour / spice batter or even wrap them in phyllo pastry and bake them, but here is the recipe for our favourite recipe:
Ingredients: Jalapeno chillies, pickled and without seeds Cream cheese (we used caramelised onion flavour) Feta Chilli Bite Mix Water Oil for frying
Hello, my name is Candice Bresler. I am a vanilla-obsessed eater, baker and cook. I live in a beautiful little corner of Cape Town with my fantastic husband and a balcony filled with home grown vegetables and herbs. I try to lead a gorgeous life.I love food. Sometimes it’s that simple, and that complicated.
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Four & Twenty Cafe I love this Parisian style cafe in Wynberg. I had heard a lot about it so I was excited to finally give it a try.
What I had: The Breakfast Sumptuous
Caramelised onions, smashed avocado, Danish feta and a soft poached free range egg finished with balsamic glaze on homemade bread. Oh wow. I would have this again in a heartbeat.
What Warren had: The Bangkok Burger
A homemade steamed wasabi and black sesame seed bun, filled with shredded sticky hoisin pork neck and a mixed crunchy julienne of cucumber, leek, spring onion and pickled ginger, served with prawn toast ‘fries’, a homemade shitake ‘ketchup’ and a pile of sea-salt steamed edamame pods. I had a sneaky taste and it was delicious. www.fourandtwentycafe.co.za www.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
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TASTE Our NEW Coffee Academy Officially Open! We offer the following exciting courses: • Team building • Beginners Workshop • Start your own coffee shop • One on One training
Kindly contact us for more information: www.mischu.co.za | info@mischu.co.za www.flatwhiteconcepts.com|||Issue Issue20 19 www.flatwhiteconcepts.com www.flatwhiteconcepts.com Issue 20 85a Regent Road, Sea Point
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EB Cafe I was very excited to find out that one of my favourite shops, Exclusive Books had opened up a coffee shop in their V&A Waterfront store. I hurriedly went to check it out. First, I spent some time browsing through all the books and making a mental note of what I wanted to buy. Then, I made my way to the coffee shop to enjoy some coffee. There is both an inside and outside section of which we chose to sit outside as it was one of those beautiful Cape Town summer days. They have a selection of food but as we had already eaten we decided to just have some coffee. They’ve hopped right onto the coffee bandwagon that has taken over the city and offer a wide selection of coffees, including Chemex and V60 coffee of which we ordered both. Books and coffee - a beautiful combination. www.exclus1ves.co.za www.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
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Ola, meet Vickycristina's I was lucky enough to go for dinner on the first week that VickyCristina’s opened their doors. Despite them being only open for a few days the place was already gaining popularity. Set in the heart of Camps Bay it is obvious that this place is going to become the new favourite spot to go to, especially since they are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This Spanish inspired restaurant is definitely going to be seeing a lot of me. I had an incredible dinner the night I went. We started off with the crumbed Halloumi which came with an aubergine puree. I could easily have eaten an entire plate of these little slices of heaven. After that we tried the Catalan Veal which came with a savoury chocolate sauce. Delicious! By then I was already getting full but I couldn’t resist trying a Coca which is what they call their Spanish flatbread. Mine came with tomato, caramelised
onion, olives, rocket and avocado. I was a very happy customer and immediately got hold of the owner to ask him a few questions...
The Restaurant Opening a VickyCristina’s in Camps Bay required an evolution of the brand and design language – which needed to respond to the colour palette of the beachfront and the Promenade. The Camps Bay restaurant therefore marks a new direction for VickyCristina’s, and it is the first Vicky’s store to offer breakfast. The VickyCristina’s brand is very much about the whole experience, with the food just one component of that. Although we have taken great care
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TASTE over the menu, these are dishes to be enjoyed and shared any time of the day rather than fine dining. We want our guests to return over and over again because they enjoyed themselves, not because they were impressed. The menu changes seasonally, so there will be dishes suited to the Cape Town weather when winter comes.
Signature Dish
The Name
Opening Times
VickyCristina’s is inspired by Spain, Spanish food and Hispanic culture. It is the second-most widely spoken language in the world, and Hispanic people are a major economic and social force in contemporary culture. Woody Allen’s movie “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” captured the city and the crazy, passionate, dramatic nature of Spain so perfectly, we knew “VickyCristina’s” would communicate what was in our minds better than anything else could.
VickyCristina’s opens at 8:00 on weekdays and 7:00 on weekends – and stays open till late.
For carnivores, the Samba. It’s the picanha cut popular in Brazil, which is both rich in flavour and tender due to the way it’s cut. The Salsa platter is great for seafood lovers, the Pork Belly tapas is a favourite – and the Orange Chocolate Fondue is We have plans for a regular schedule of events at as rich a dessert as you could possibly want. Also the store throughout the year, and will reveal more try the cocas – light, crisp flatbreads with Spanishvia the social media platforms before we launch inspired toppings that are a refreshing alternative this. to pizza.
Links Facebook: www.facebook.com/vickycristinas Twitter: @VCLoveFood Instagram: vickycristinas Website: www.vickycristinas.com
Mom’s with tattoos
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Cindy Alfino
Children: Kyla (5), Riya-Ray (4) and Knox (2)
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TASTE Tell me about your job and your passions: By day I'm the co-owner and Operations Director of an insurance brokerage in Cape Town. Although I love my job, my passions vary very far from insurance. I love my family and spending time with them, I love exploring Cape Town with them and blogging in between on 3 Kids, 2 Dogs and 1 Old House (http://www.alfinos.wordpress. com)
a meaning behind this one per say, but I got in remembrance of my Dad who passed away last year. I will probably be adding a bit more colour to it soon to make it look less "accidental" and more "intentional". What has been the reaction from friends, family and the general public, especially since you've become a mom? The only one that has really ever expressed any problem with it is my Mom (and Mom In Law). Other than that I don't ever have any negative feedback on the ink or it's effect on my ability as a Mom. Although today I had the first person grope my arm while he tried to "see" the stag head. That was a bit weird.
Tattoos: My first tattoo was one that I got shortly after getting married, I must have been around 21/22 (oh you noticed? yes I did get married young - fancy that). I got my husband to write his name and our wedding date and then had it permanently inked onto my arm. I love that it's his writing and that we're doing life together. Do your children ask about the tattoos? All the time. They are constantly giving themMy second tattoo is a cross with the words 'grace" selves "tattoos" and are very interested in how written through it on my foot. Possibly the most it all happens. I've found that because we are painful of my tattoos due to the area, it is a visible tattooed and many of our friends are too, it has confirmation of my love for Jesus and my grateful- almost become a non-issue. They adore my bird ness of his grace in dying to save me. tattoo. In fact they fight over whose turn it is to hold that hand every day. For my third tattoo I had to get something that represented our kids and after playing around Which is your favourite tattoo and why? with a few ideas I came up with silhouette hum- As much as I love the rest of them I am really mingbirds with their favourite colours as the chuffed with my hummingbirds tattoo. Yes, bemovement of the wings. I love this tattoo so cause it's for my kids, but mostly because I just much and so many others seem to as well, look- love how it looks. ing "hummingbird tattoo" up on Pinterest will give you my tattoo. Crazy. Any advice to others who want tattoos? Do it. Yes it's sore, and no you can't remove it. We My fourth tattoo is a tiny arrow on my right arm are all going to look pretty ragged in our 80's, havthat I share with my best friend who decided to ing ink is not going to affect that except to make move to New Zealand. your wrinkles more colourful. Make sure you do your research on your artist - cheaper is NOT betMy last tattoo is my biggest piece yet and it's ter. While I'm all for doing it, I'm not encouraging still a work in progress. It's an origami stag head you to have terrible work done - you pay for what with watercolour background. There isn't really you get if you know what I mean.
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Mom’s with tattoos
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Dina Dos SantOS
Children: Emma and Cy
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Tell me about your job and your passions: I work for a logistics company Administrator. My kids are my passion, I’m a single mom and it’s important for me to see them happy and to be the best mom I can be. Tattoos: I’ve got 6 tattoos, I just love them, no specific meaning as such, it’s more an addiction than anything else. Bringing my body to life with art work. What has been the reaction from friends, family and the general public, especially since you’ve become a mom? My friends know I’m a wild spirit... so nothing shocks them any more. My family are okay with, the public do give me some stares and glares, and people come up to me complimenting me. The older generation seem to have a lot to say... they feel that if younger children associate with my kids that I will be a bad influence of the kids and lead them astray. My bosses dont like me showing my tattoos, but they know that it no way affects my quality of work. Luckily I have my own office and I dont really work with public. Do your children ask about the tattoos? They have and I just tell them that I have tattoos because it makes me feel good and my body pretty like a colouring-in book. Which is your favourite tattoo and why? My koi is my favourite, it’s a cover up over one of my old tattoos. For me it signifies combating obstacles and my strength at being a single mom, doing it all on my own. Any advice to others who want tattoos? You get exactly what you pay for. Don’t do cheap as I guarantee you wont be happy with it and you will have to live with it for the rest of your life
Mom’s with tattoos
CREATE
Claire Bischoff
Child: Jesse Joe
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CREATE Tell me about your job and your passions: ping through the sample books and thought ‘hey, I am a stay at home Mom (ex Nursery school why not’. teacher). My passions are photography, music, reading and my family. I have two dragonflies on the inside of my arm. There is a long story behind it , too long to repeat Tattoos: here, but the dragonflies symbolise your perMy first tattoo was the Egyptian Eye of Horus - sonal journey through life and that everyone has My sister and I got a tattoo together on my 18th their own path to follow, you cannot force them birthday. It symbolises sacrifice, healing, restora- to learn life's lessons as the beauty comes from tion and protection. the personal struggle. What has been the reaction from friends, family and the general public, especially since you’ve become a mom? When I first started getting tattoos they were still taboo but over the years I think most people Next was the Egyptian Ankh - meaning the breath have become desensitized to them as they are of life. Eternity. seen everywhere and on everyone, so I cant say that I have been treated any differently. I have a massive tramp stamp running across my entire lower back. This is a design that my broth- Does your child ask about the tattoos? er and I came up with late one night while mess- My boy is not old enough to talk but he often ing around. It was completely different to the traces them with his finger. original idea of two mirrored symbols intended for my hip bones. We layered and flipped the im- Which is your favourite tattoo and why? ages onto one another which made some sort of I love all my tattoos but my the most meaningbat like image. It is a night I will never forget so I ful are my dragonflies and my tramp stamp. The decided to go ahead and get the very unfeminine dragonflies for their meaning and my tramp tattoo. stamp for the bonding with my brother. I have my Phoenix on my ankle - rising from the ashes. I got this tattoo to remind myself that it is okay to reinvent yourself and to say good bye to the old and welcome the new.
I have a tiger on my ribcage - this was hands Any advice to others who want tattoos? down the most painful tattoo I have ever gotten. If you want it then get it. Even if you hate it in 20 My friend went in to get a tattoo and I was flip- years time it is still a memory.
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Tattoos in the corporate world
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SAM WRIGHT Marketing manager at an Engineering Company and Editor of www.techgirl.co.za
Tattoos: The first is Celtic cross on my ankle that I had done at 16 (don't tell my mom! My boyfriend at the time signed the consent form... naughty I know). I'd seen a rock carving of the cross in a museum and just thought it represented my feelings about religion rather well in that I do believe in a ‘God’ and was raised in the catholic faith, but I don't like
labelling myself as a Christian or Catholic. My belief is somewhat warped. Much like the cross. My second tattoo was the Celtic knot for strength (seeing a trend here) and a Latin saying that translates to that which nourishes us also destroys us. The piece is on my lower back. I got it after losing 30kgs, as a reminder of my past life.
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The third tattoo was my own design on my right shoulder. I had two horses and it was a mixture of Chinese symbols and a treble clef as a tribute to them.
end with people asking what a tattoo means or ‘you know that is permanent’. But for the most part it hasn't affected my actual job. My family think I'm mad. My friends have tattoos too.
My fourth tattoo is a Spanish saying on my foot that translates to read ‘how lovely it is to dream while you're awake’. It's in Spanish because I just love the language. It was done in a graffiti tag type style because I just thought it looked rather rad and it was done to remind me to always live my dreams. No matter what anyone says.
Do you think the general outlook on tattoos in a corporate environment is starting to change? I definitely think it is changing. A few years back I was very aware of keeping tattoos covered but over the last few years I've forgotten they're even on show. I think you're going to get a negative reaction if you're tattooed your knuckles or hands, but the rest of your skin seems to be fair game.
My fifth tattoo was the Celtic symbol for the horse and I had it done at the base of my neck. It was done on live radio. It was a tribute to two more horses and I thought it looked interesting. Subsequently I've had people tell me it looks like a big S. Considering my name that makes me flinch. My most recent tattoo is an abstract piece covering the third tattoo. I still loved the meaning behind the third tattoo. Not because I didn't like the third tattoo. I did. But I wanted to develop on it and create a piece of art on my shoulder... so I did.
Which is your favourite tattoo and why? My most recent. It's so unique and colourful. It really is like having an artwork on my body. Any advice to others who want tattoos? Choose your artist well. Do the research and make sure you're working with a professional. There are a lot of dodgy guys out there who don't follow correct safety procedures and the like. When you've found a good artist (I only use Fallen Heroes in Johannesburg) make sure you know exactly what you want. Try also be realistic. If you work in corporate, or even if you don't, ask yourself if you'd be embarrassed if your grandfather saw your chosen tatt. If the answer is yes maybe rethink the design.
What has the reaction on your tattoos been from friends, family and the general public, especially since you work in the corporate world? The most recent piece gets a lot of attention because it is just so different. Working in corporate is a difficult one. For the most part there seems to Will you be getting any more? be an understanding that it is frowned upon. All Yup. Busy planning an add on to one of them as I my tattoos are in places that I could cover them answer these! up but I don't. I've had a few business meetings www.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
Tattoos Artist
CREATE
Jake Tattoo Artist at Sin on Skin
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Have you / would you ever tattoo yourself? How long have you been a tattoo artist? Been tattooing for about 20 years now and I’m Yes I have tattooed myself... quite a few times. now the owner of Sin on Skin. Do you remember the first tattoo you ever did? Think the first one I did was a tribal gecko on my Would you say you have a particular style? I enjoy doing old school traditional stuff but I am own ankle. open to and experienced in most styles. I have tried throughout the years to never pigeon hole Which tattoo artist is your idol? myself with one style, and I enjoy doing anything A guy called Nicko Tourdo. He specializes in realism and in my opinion is way ahead of the pack. interesting and different . Is there anything you refuse to tattoo? Your first tattoo? I was 16 when i had my first piece done and it I refuse to do any satanic or face tattoos. was a vulture from the jungle book. It’s still on my What do you enjoy doing when you're not tatshoulder 27 years later! tooing people? How many tattoos do you have and which is your When I’m not at the shop I spend as much time favourite? as I can with my wife and daughter. I also play as I stopped counting ages ago but my favorite is my much football as I can. daughters name on my hand. Describe yourself in one word Family-man. www.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
Tattoos Artist
CREATE
CLINT Tattoo Artist at Skin Trade
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CREATE How long have you been a tattoo artist and how ‘talent’ on my baby finger. long have you been at Skin Trade? Do you remember the first tattoo you ever did? At a rough guess I’d say around 8 years. Yes, that would be the kanji symbol on my ankle. Would you say you have a particular style? I like anything that challenges me as an artist, I Which tattoo artist is your idol? think it is important to be as versatile as possible. I idolize many artists for many reasons far too many to list. Your first tattoo? When I was 18, two dragons going across my Is there anything you refuse to tattoo? There is a long list of things I refuse to tattoo. I shoulders. don’t tattoo anything derogatory or underage How many tattoos do you have and which is people - that would be my two absolutes. your favourite? At present I’d say I have around 14 tattoos. I don’t What do you enjoy doing when you're not tatreally have a favourite. I like them all and they all tooing people? Just living life, art both digital and traditional, exhave a story of a moment in time. ercising and spending time with people. Have you / would you ever tattoo yourself? I’ve tattooed myself 4 times. 2 kanji symbols on Describe yourself in one word my ankles, a monster on my calf and the word Different.
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Tattoos Artist
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Derek Tattoo Artist at Metal Machine
How long have you been a tattoo artist and Do you remember the first tattoo you ever did? how long have you been at Metal Machine? My first ever was a spider but my first profesBeen a tattoo artist since 1991 and I started sional tattoo was a skull and rose. Metal Machine in 1993. Which tattoo artist is your idol? Would you say you have a particular style? Shige and Bob Tyrell come to mind but there My styles vary but I am known for my black are many artists that I admire. work, oriental and realism. Is there anything you refuse to tattoo? Your first tattoo? There are things that I refuse to tattoo (circumThe Star of David on my left arm in 1987 stances would be taken into account before making this decision). How many tattoos do you have and which is your favourite? What do you enjoy doing when you're not tatI have too many to count and each has special tooing people? meaning/memories which makes them all my Building up my 1973 el Camino and just keeping creative in my workshop. favourite. They are me. Describe yourself in one word Have you / would you ever tattoo yourself? Yes I have done plenty on myself. I was my prac- Busy. tice canvas. www.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
CREATE
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Studio Swine, Metallic Geology, London Connoisseur
Southern Guild Southern Guild is a design gallery that was founded in 2008 by Trevyn and Julian McGowan. Created as a forum for South African designers to challenge and support each other, it has grown a reputation for innovation, excellence and a truly fresh perspective. The gallery cohesively and comprehensively showcases the most important contemporary design from Africa, at the leading limited edition design fairs around the world. With the launch of our first permanent gallery in Woodstock, Cape Town, in November 2014, and collaborative exhibitions internationally, Southern Guild is continuing to provoke the most exciting collectible design the continent has to offer.
goal. As Southern Guild, we aim to support our South African designers in this same way, giving them a platform on which to exhibit their immense talent both locally and internationally, while at the same time opening up great opportunities for collaboration and the exchange of ideas and skill. Our logo is a depiction of the Southern Cross putting a spotlight on design from the continent. The Southern Guild Design Fair GUILD
GUILD is the international design fair that Southern Guild organises in Cape Town. Last year was our inaugural fair, so 2015 is our second edition, running from 25 February to 1 March at The Lookout, V&A Waterfront. We invite the top design galleries and designers from around the world to exhibit at GUILD. This year, we are very excited Name and logo to have Carpenters Workshop Gallery showing the design works of SA-born artist Kendell Geers Southern Guild refers to the age-old traditional for the first time in this country. And New York's guilds that used to exist as associations of crafts- Stephen Burks Man Made has created a collecmen who would work in the pursuit of a common tion called The Others, especially for GUILD. Oriwww.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
CREATE gami genius Sipho Mabona from Lucerne will be showcasing his folding skills in ingenious ways. And esteemed design author Helen Chislett will be curating a booth through her London Connoisseur gallery, bringing some of London’s most exciting names to show - including Zeitz MOCAA architect Thomas Heatherwick, David Adjaye and Studio Swine. There’s also the new phase of Design Network Africa being launched at GUILD, with new designers from the continent joining the network. Our own Southern Guild designers will also be showing new work, while SA artist Conrad Botes will be displaying a sculptural collection, and our retail space ARTISAN by Watershed will offer a carefully curated selection of some of the best local craft and design for visitors to purchase to take home. Trevyn McGowan will be offering curator guided tours of the fair, and on Thursday 26th and Sat 28th Feb, from 2-4pm, many of the local and international designers will be talking visitors through their pieces and the ideas behind them, in a session titled Designers on Site. The Striped Horse on The Lookout deck will be a great place for guests to unwind with a drink and meal from Vagabond - so it’s worth going to spend a big part of the day at GUILD. Current favourite trend
ers to work in collaboration with local designers, with this resulting work being premiered at our fair in February. We have The Haas Brothers from LA working with Monkeybiz and Bronze Age, producing the Afreaks series of beaded animals. Carlo and Mary-Lynn Massoud from Beirut are also working with Bronze Age and Imiso Ceramics, on Autopsy - a collection referencing African fertility dolls as seen through Middle Eastern eyes. And Frederik Molenschot from Studio Molen in Amsterdam is working with Swaziland’s Gone Rural to produce Sleeping Swaziland - his take on the continent at night. Local designer Porky Hefer is collaborating with Peter Mabeo from Botswana on a piece called Seemo which is based on Porky’s fascination with birds’ nests, using Mabeo Furniture’s skilled expertise. Collaborations like these are what make design fresh and exciting. We can’t wait for you to see these all at GUILD. Getting Invovled We are always open to discovering new talent. Southern Guild represents work that is at the top level of being collectible, once-off or limited-edition. We look for work that has a strong narrative and is very authentic.
Collaboration. We are so into this at the moment, www.southernguild.co.za as it’s something we have been working hard for www.guilddesignfair.com for GUILD - bringing together international design-
Carlo and Mary-Lynn Massoud Kendell Geers, Leviathan Stool, (represented by Carwan Gallery) with Carpenters Workshop Gallery Andile Dyalvane and Zizipho Poswa of Imiso Ceramics. Photo credit Justin Patrick
The Haas Brothers (represented by R & Company). Photo credit Richard Keppel-Smith
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Xandre Kriel, Vos Table, and David Krynauw, Haywire Black Ash, Southern Guild
DISCOVER
A tourist in my own city... The blue/purple Tour
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DISCOVER And off I went again. After having my first City Sightseeing experience two weeks ago I decided to do another one. This time I decided to try the Blue Tour which includes a free Purple Wine Tour - so you can imagine the appeal. As much as I love my coffee, I sure do love my wine. This time I decided to invite a group of friends and to show these Capetonians how lucky we are. It was, in fact, nice to hear quite a few South African accents on board and I’m glad to hear that there are a few other Capetonians that enjoy acting the tourist in their own city. Perhaps it’s because I’m not originally from here but I still cannot get over how beautiful this place is.
to Jonkerhuis Restaurant. Jonkerhuis is part of the estate and is extremely popular. Unfortunately we didn’t manage to get a table outside which is a pity because the views are incredible but they thankfully had a table for us inside. It was burgers all around and we walked away satisfied. Then someone declared, ‘More wine!’.
So we headed back onto the bus and made our way to Eagle’s Nest for some more wine tasting. It was my first time at Eagle’s Nest and I was blown away with how beautiful the outside area was. We found a table and relaxed under the trees. The staff were all very friendly and I enjoyed all the wines, including the white wines of which I’m not normally a The Blue Mini Peninsula Tour departs from the fan. We stayed for as long as we could before headV&A Waterfront (although you can hop on at any ing back to catch the next bus. This took us back to place you choose from the tour stops). From here our Blue bus and from there we headed home. it takes you through Lower Long Street, The Mount Nelson, Kirstenbosch, Constantia Nek, World of What I assumed was going to be a short morning Birds, Hout Bay, Camps Bay, Sea Point, Green Point out ended up being an entire day of fun, laughter, and then back to the waterfront. good food and wine, and a great deal of staring at the beauty of Cape Town. We started off our tour at 9.30am. We were told there was a bus every 15 minutes so we quickly The City Sightseeing Bus shows you a side to this ran to get some takeaway coffee. ‘Coffee first, wine city that you completely take for granted and I still later’ is my rule. The tour was very interesting and stand my ground when I say that both tourists and as usual I learnt a lot of things that I didn’t know locals alike should give it a try. before. At Constantia Nek we got off and changed over to the Purple Bus. I’m looking forward to a few more tours this year. There is still quite a few to try, including the Canal Our first stop was Groot Constantia, where we hur- Cruise and the Night Tour! riedly made our way to the wine cellar for some wine and chocolate pairing. We sat outside and www.citysightseeing.co.za enjoyed the five different wine pairings, which at www.grootconstantia.co.za R75 was definitely worth it. Plus the guy was quite www.eaglesnestwines.com heavy handed with the wine which made it oh so much better. We stayed here until we decided we By Christine Bernard needed to eat and stumbled, I mean walked, over Photos by Warren Bernard
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Brookside Admin Brackenfell Expert Bookkeepers and Tax Practitioners 021 - 828 2119 www.brookside.co.za Debby@Brookside.co.za www.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
DISCOVER 2014 Top 14 I’m having quite a ‘book’ year already, so my list for 2015 is going to be LONG!I decided that this year I was going to make more time to do the things that I love, of which one of them is reading of course. I thought I’d share my top 14 books of 2014 list with you.
Mr Penumbra’s 24 Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan By far my favourite book of the year. Old and new books, technology and the mystery of a secret club, it was everything that I look for in a book. I listened to this one as an audio book and loved the voice of the narrator. I also fell in love with Mr Penumbra himself and will never forget his voice saying ‘What do you seek in these shelves?’.
Ajax Penumbra 1969 by Robin Sloan This was the prequel to Mr Penumbra’s 24 Hour Bookstore, although the author wrote it afterwards. I battled to decide where to put this book on my list because although I loved it I also was very disappointed at how short it was. I felt it needed more to be published as a full book. I decided to put it here on my list because I see it almost as the same as the first book, a small extension to it rather than a whole new novel.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern Friends told me it was the book of the year, so I started off this one with very high expectations. This is never a good way to start a book. Thank goodness this one lived up to it. It really is so beautifully written with the most poetic descriptions. I generally like more ‘real’ books, books that I can relate to, so it was with great surprise that I let myself be transported into the magical world of the night circus.
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes My last book of the year and what a great book to end on. I absolutely loved this tale of Charlie, a boy who is mentally challenged that undergoes an operation to become smarter. It’s a heart wrenching tale and beautifully written. I found it interesting, engaging, captivating and sad. I highly recommend this.
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DISCOVER The Help by Kathryn Stockett I can’t fault this book. For me it totally lives up to the hype. I felt a strong connection to all the characters, and although at the start I thought the dialect might be an issue it ended up being incredibly easy to read. I think everyone should read this book to remind ourselves how far we have come, and possibly how far we still have to go.
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn I know there are very mixed reviews for this book but I absolutely loved it. I haven’t watched the movie yet but I’ve been told it’s good. I found this book so easy to read with huge surprises throughout. I honestly could not put this one down. I didn’t enjoy the end though which is a pity, so because of that I’d probably give it about a 9/10. I watched the movie shortly afterwards too, but it was hard for me to fully enjoy it because the entire suspense was taken away since I had read the book. I would definitely say the book was better, which is generally the case.
The Circle by Dave Eggers I absolutely loved this book. In an age where social media is a big part of our daily lives I think it was smart to think of a story in which this gets elevated to another level. A life of transparency? I see the benefits to it but the impending social impact is devastating. I would definitely recommend this book. Unfortunately I did not like the main character at all. I did not feel a connection to her and felt her to be completely flat. It’s a pity because it was a great story, but the main character brings it down. I found her to be boring and devoid of personality. Despite this, it is a fast and entertaining read. An easy read which still gets you thinking.
The Fault in Our Starts by John Green A beautiful book. Beautiful. I fell in love with these characters and with this honest story. The only thing I wasn’t sure about was how the characters spoke as I don’t think teenagers speak like this (actually most adults don’t speak like this) but I was enthralled with the characters nonetheless and absolutely loved the story. I was surprised by certain events too, because the story almost reads as quite predicable. Instead you’re left with a few shock moments. I haven’t brought myself to watch the movie. I cried so much in the book and would probably fall apart in the movie. I sometimes find it’s even worse when you know what’s going to happen. www.flatwhiteconcepts.com | Issue 21
DISCOVER We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler I loved this book, probably because of my innate sense of love for animals. I had recently lost a pet so every time I read about Fern I would burst into tears. This book made me realise how much we ignore about the world, and how awful human beings can be. It also made me think about what we can change about ourselves and what is inherently just our nature. A very strangely written book, rather choppy at times, but it certainly kept me on my toes with its twists and turns and I’m quite sad to have finished it.
Animal Farm by George Orwell I remember enjoying this book as a child but as an adult it is way better, possibly because I understand it all so much more now that I’m an adult myself. This is a classic for a reason and certainly one of those books which will be read in schools and homes for a very long time to come. It offers a very strong image of the world in which we live in and what power can do to people. It’s a sad portrayal of reality.
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes Pity about the cover, which makes this book seem a lot more ‘girly’ and ‘romantic’ than it really is. I almost didn’t read this book when I saw the cover but my mom had convinced me that it was worth it and I’m glad I listened to her. It’s an easy read, but a very touching story about a girl who has to look after a quadriplegic. I read it in two days and loved every part of it. Do yourself a favour though... make sure the tissues are on hand.
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell Ahh, finally, a love story that felt real. A story that was both heart-warming and heart-wrenching. It dealt with real emotions and introduced us to two characters which I felt instantly attracted to. A story that both the young and old can enjoy, although if I had read this as a teenager I think I would’ve worn out the pages from over reading. Sadly I didn’t like the ending. I honestly thought, ‘am I missing some pages?’. I feel like it shouldn’t have ended when it did. Perhaps there will be a follow on? Mark my words though… there will be a movie out of this. I just know it!
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DISCOVER The Universe Versus Alex Woods by Gavin Extence I love books that involve unlikely friendships, as is the case here with Alex Woods and the much older Mr Peterson. A book about love, compassion and doing the right thing. The main character, Alex, is very different to most boys his age. He has a very unusual way of looking at the world and is both childlike and mature at once. The book tackles some very heavy subjects but uses humour to help make the reading light-hearted and approachable. The first chapter is very exciting and you’ll be hooked from the start.
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion This was a surprisingly good book. Once again, I was put off by the rather childlike cover of the book but in the end I found the book to be a delight to read. It offered serious content but was delivered in an easy to read and very endearing manner. I loved the main character, who gives us a great insight into the life of Asperger’s Syndrome. I’m not sure how accurate it all is, and there were certainly parts of the book that seemed a bit too airy fairy considering the content, but I still loved it. I was going through quite a busy time with work and it was nice to have a book that was so easy to read.
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Time to win some competitions! All competitions must be entered by 25 March 2015
1 Win a Mixology evening for you and 3 friends at Beluga You will be given the chance to learn how to make and taste some of Beluga’s signature cocktails while munching on some sushi and dim sum platters. To enter simply like and tag both Beluga and the Flat White Concepts Facebook page with a picture of you and you favourite Beluga cocktail. Good luck! Links: Beluga: https://www.facebook.com/belugapage Flat White: https://www.facebook.com/FlatWhiteConcepts
2 two lucky readers can win a dinner voucher worth r270 to enjoy at eighty ate restaurant To enter please email: christine@flatwhiteconcepts.com with your details. Subject: Eighty Ate 88 Queen Victoria Street, Gardens
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Win a 1 x Value Red & White Mixed Case from Wine Web – This includes 6 bottles, 3 red and 3 white and includes delivery. To enter please email: christine@flatwhiteconcepts.com with your details. Subject: Wine www.wineweb.co.za
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DISCOVER TASTE
Discover the pure gold, full flavoured refreshment of Savanna Dark
4 Take a walk on the dark side and discover the full
out with friends at a premium nightclub, trendy flavoured refreshment of Savanna Dark, South café, gastro pub or bar, or just chilling at your faAfrica’s first premium apple cider in a black bot- vourite haunt. tle that is pure gold on the inside. It’s available country-wide at a recommended In true Savanna style, it certainly is a tad uncon- selling price of R59.95 per 6-pack or R215 per ventional, but there’s no reason to be afraid of case. the dark. Slow brewed and slightly mysterious, it’s not as dark as you think with a surprisingly Savanna is pumping up the action with its off the golden hue and crisp, bold taste. Simply put - it’s wall take on life so be sure to stay in touch on pure golden, full flavoured bliss with the distinc- www.facebook.com/savannacider and catch the conversation on Twitter @SavannaCider #Savantively dry Savanna taste. Enjoy Savanna Dark whether you are hanging naDark.
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WIN A Savanna Dark backpack cooler bag and a six pack of Savanna Dark To enter please email: christine@flatwhiteconcepts.com with the subject: Savanna If you are the winner we will contact for more details.
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Restaurant discovery site Zomato is giving two lucky readers a voucher for Piazza Italia. To enter please email: christine@flatwhiteconcepts.com with the subject: Zomato/Piazza Italia Please note that you must be based in Cape Town and you must be able to collect the vouchers from 111 Victoria Junction, Prestwich Street, Green Point Piazza Italia: Unit 1 MLT House, 2C Park Road, Gardens www.zomato.com
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THE END
Do you want to advertise with us? Email Christine on christine@flatwhiteconcepts.com Go on.. all the cool kids are doing it.
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