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contents
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FILM Michael Maxxis
COVER Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
Photo Spread 1 Yesterday’s Girl
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EVENTS At the Derby
PROFILE Cordelia Chan
Photo Spread 2 Fall From Grace
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DESIGN Ali Schick (Suka)
BEAUTY Avant Gold
DESIGN Art in Architecture (Randall Stout)
CARES Young Artists for Haiti
On the Cover Alex & Jade (Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros) Photo: Ashley Champagne
georgie Publishers Georgie Inc. Editor in chief Georgie Creative director Nathan Marshall Photo editor Ashley Champagne Photographers/illustrators/Designers Ashley Champagne, Robin Holdsworth, Nathan Marshall, Melanie Swerdan, Paul Swanson Writers Grace Glowicki, Heather Noel, Colleen Nuc, Nathan Marshall, Andrea Steen, Karin Zuppiger
INTRODUCTION With an infectious energy and an inspiring courage to be unbound,
Copy editor Jude Zuppiger PR/Marketing Michelle Gibson
Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros have made their way into our
Special thanks
hearts... and minds. While putting issue three together, the Georgie
Nikki (Nicola Gavins Makeup Artistry), Lauren Hughes (Mousy Brown’s), Kyla & Stacy (Bamboo Ballroom), Sarah & Hayley (Fluid Hair), Corin Berry (Ricci Hair), Oksana Gowin (AGA), Colleen Mcginn, Fiona McNair (Hi-Fi Models), Erin Monaghan, Posta Cartel, Ali Schick (Suka), Art Szabo (Starlite Room), Morgan Willard (Ponytails & Horseshoes)
team had the Magnetic Zeros’ debut album “Up From Below” in high rotation. If you’ve had the pleasure of listening to their music, you can imagine what it meant to Georgie when we were able to book a little time with the epic group - so that we could all become a little more acquainted. Armed with an arsenal of talent and the desire to be free with a child like innocence and inhibition, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros have shown us what it means to be well on the way to
Inquiries info@heygeogie.com Advertising sales@heygeorgie.com
success, to fully experience every moment and with all of that it is still
www.heygeorgie.com
possible to remain down to earth. These moments were absolutely
Copyright © 2010 Georgie Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.
the highlight of this issue for us and we are happy to get to share this piece with you.
-------------------------------------------------------------------Georgie Magazine is published four times a year. The views expressed in these pages are not necessarily shared by the publishers.
georgie
film
TEXT KARIN ZUPPIGER
5 georgie
Photo MELANIE SWERDAN
Does the line, “As soon as he called there was like a burnt hot-
On getting and making money:
dog smell,” mean anything to you? It’s just one of the brilliant little
It’s complicated - music videos are paid for by artists or labels.
moments in Edmonton director Michael Maxxis’s video for Hot
Some of them get grants, like VideoFACT (aka MuchFACT)
Hot Heat’s “21@12”. Recently named MuchMusic’s Director of
grants. I actually paid for the first two videos I directed myself
the Year for his work on Billy Talent’s “Saint Veronika”, and a new
and I’ve subsidized a few videos that I thought could really make
addition to the David Naylor & Associates (DNA) creative roster,
my career.
Maxxis is making a solid name for himself as a hot up-and-com-
It’s not as glamorous as people think. Even though I’m directing
ing director. With a background in business and an aesthetic that
videos for some of the most successful top-selling bands in Can-
either draws deeply from the pitchblack well of horror and fright,
ada, I still barely make enough money to make a living. I haven’t
or from the absurdity of the everyday, Maxxis has found the right
bought a new pair of shoes in a while.
balance of industry savvy and artistic talent to forge the begin-
I was bartending up until three years ago, and I was managing a bar
nings of a promising career. If you need snow to look black, or
last year for extra money - just so people know - the money has to
puppies to look spiky, then look no further.
come from somewhere. Every dollar I make goes back into film.
These days Maxxis keeps his elbows greased by juggling the creative and business ends of numerous short film and video
On his aesthetic:
projects, while maintaining day jobs and night jobs. Maxxis
Based on the work I’ve done – there are two distinct styles. There’s
shares his thoughts on connection, collaboration and the secrets
the sort of darker, heavy-handed, mysterious, moody stuff. But
of his entrepreneurial success with Georgie while multi-tasking
the more honest, real side of my personality and cinematic style
a Los Angeles lunch.
comes out in videos like the Hot Hot Heat video, my shorts Steak and Milk, and even that Jay Malinowski video for “Santa Monica”.
On his recent MMVA win:
There’s just something about that style that’s just sort of honest,
As a music video director in Canada it’s the greatest recogni-
patient and a little absurd.
tion you can get. It’s an honour and I really appreciated it. Three years ago, Beverley McKee the president of VideoFACT, offered
On directing:
me a ticket to the MMVA’s and I’d only directed a couple of music
It’s just all about timing and patience and recognizing humor-
videos at that point. I remember being there and seeing the di-
ous, entertaining or original things in real-life people and situa-
rectors and the artists and thinking: Oh my god, this is incredible.
tions. I’m constantly taking notes of weird and odd things I see,
I can’t believe I get to go to these! If I could be here in five or six
whether its signs or people or situations. I spice it up a little, push
years, or in ten years, that would be great. The next year my work
it over the top a little bit, so that everyone gets a laugh.
was nominated for three MMVA’s - Director of the Year, Best In-
Sometimes they don’t even know I’m filming. I’ll ask them to sim-
dependent Video and Best Cinematography - and the year after
ulate a scene and then I’ll be rolling and they won’t even know.
that I was fortunate enough to win one.
That’s exactly how the hotdog line came out. That entire scene was filmed without them knowing we were rolling. The trick is
On making music videos:
just making them comfortable. There’s a psychology behind get-
I write 100% of the content for the videos, together with the artists. Typ-
ting people to be themselves when there’s lights on them and a
ically musicians are called artists for a reason; they’re creative people
camera in their face.
so it’s really rewarding and satisfying to collaborate with them. I would rather do videos with people that I’ve worked with be-
On the industry:
fore. I was friends with Steve Bays from Hot Hot Heat for two years
It’s such a complicated industry - there’s no clear cut path or di-
before I did their video. Same with Billy Talent - we were talking
rection. It’s constantly taking risks and strategizing, choosing the
for about six months before I did the video for “Saint Veronika”.
right projects.
That sort of relationship is critical to producing the best work.
I’m very organized: I don’t lose anything, I don’t miss anything, I
The goal is to make a video that’s iconic and to portray the song
get back to everyone immediately. I don’t have the sort of flighty,
and the band visually in a way that makes them larger than life, or
loose artist personality at all. I think it’s one of the secrets of my
that captures them in a way that purposely suits the direction and
success. I’ve always maintained a sort of business mentality to
brand of that record. It’s still ultimately a commercial.
it. It’s so competitive - people just don’t have time for unreliable,
My goal is to do feature films. I always try to make videos that have
disorganized people.
a narrative component and feel cinematic and sort of movie-like.
I haven’t had a holiday in seven years. I actually need to take one
“There’s a psychology behind getting people to be themselves when there’s lights on them and a camera in their face.”
soon or I’m going to burn out. In this industry,
back Kid and I actually just signed with DNA, one
it’s sort of never-ending. You’re always working
of the biggest music video companies in the world
- either reading or writing or pitching or de-
- they’re based in Los Angeles.
veloping or shooting. There’s constant pressure
I’m just about finished a short film (8 for Infinity) I
and anxiety that goes along with never being
did with David Carradine. It should be finished by
able to turn it off. I’m lying in bed thinking about
next week, it’s been in post-production for a year.
ideas, I’m waking up thinking about inspiration
That’s just the nature of not having a budget. Films
or things that have to be done or deadlines that
are just always so under-funded.
have to be hit.
Ideally, I would love to just be making feature films and doing music videos for bands that I love to
On Edmonton:
work with and that I’m friends with. I’d like to do a
It’s one of those places that lacks pretense, where
couple more short films in the next year and then
people work hard and they earn their money and
start working on a script for a feature.
they like to spend it and they’re honest with you. People don’t have angles - like if I make a friend in
On priorities:
Edmonton, I feel like it’s a real friend.
To be honest, my life is kind of three things, well
The artistic community or the more fashionable
maybe four things: film, my girlfriend & my dog,
people all seem to know each other and there’s still
the Oilers and Tim Hortons. (laughs)
a great access to culture between film and music. Links: On present and future projects:
www.michaelmaxxis.com
I’m on a location scout for a video for Sweet
www.steakandmilk.com
Thing. I have a video in early August for Come7 georgie
Hi-Fi Hi-Fi Models
(780) 952-9917 www.hi-fimodels.com
georgie
events
at the
derby Northlands Park Canadian Derby tEXt ANDREA STEEN PhOtO ASHLEY CHAMPAGNE
The Canadian Derby, an annual horse race which takes place
their wealth through their wives by parading them around in
in Edmonton’s Northlands Park, draws a striking crowd of
the latest fashions from Europe. At the Derby, owners would
both sports fans and people-watchers. They are, perhaps, the
entice their affluent friends to the track to place bets and ev-
best dressed crowd in sports. Typically ladies are known for
eryone would show off their Sunday best.
their wild, ornamental and sassy hats, while men wear dapper suits and ties.
At the Royal Ascot in England, Queen Elizabeth and various members of the Royal family are regularly in attendance and
“That’s great”, you say,“but why should I care about the Derby?”
you can’t just wear any old thing when you meet the Queen (I’m talking to you, Miley Cyrus). All the stops are pulled out:
Because Edmonton has one. Actually, The Canadian Derby
hats, fascinators, gloves, cuff-links. In fact, it was rumoured
held annually every August is one of the largest horse races
that the Queen recently enforced a “no streaky tan-line” rule,
in Canada. And this isn’t some passing fad – The Canadian
citing them as unfashionable and generally unsightly.
Derby dates back to 1930. Of course, wives are no longer paraded about like pageant It’s no surprise that horse racing draws well-groomed spec-
girls, and I’m pretty sure if the Queen were on the guest list at
tators; owning horses is expensive, and training, showing
Northlands Park in Edmonton everyone would get the memo
and racing them even more so. Historically, wealth was often
and dress accordingly. As well, Derby-goers now range from
displayed through articles of clothing. While this is still done
horse enthusiasts to riders to those who attend for the specta-
today, its expression has changed remarkably. In earlier de-
cle and party. And really, what better reason to go than to dress
cades, horse racing gave men an opportunity to showcase
up with friends and enjoy an afternoon of classy action?
9 georgie
Hair Sarah Cameron & Hayley Musgreave (Fluid Hair) Makeup Nicola Gavins Stylist Erin Monaghan Models Jill Scott, Courtney Wilkes, Cody B., Taylor B. Clothing Who Cares Wear & Derks Hats Head Case
Think about it: are you really going to rock your peep-toe booties at Folk Fest? I suggest that you seize the opportunity to don a widebrimmed hat, grab a Mint Julep and practice your best southern drawl while picturing yourself at the Kentucky Derby. The races last only a few minutes but the party stretches on into summer’s long, hot nights. Renting out a private room in the grandstands is a sure way to impress your friends while surrounding yourself with an invogue crowd. When it comes to style, no one knows Derby fashion better than Lynn Redl, Fashion Writer for www.thehorses. com. “The splendour is basically a nod to the old school tradition of the sport,” she explains. In the 1920s, even the 1950s, the attendees were basically “ladies who lunch,” wives
of VIP patrons dressed to the nines. And how has Derby fashion
lows, apricots and pinks.” But don’t get too enamoured with those
evolved? “Over the past few years the fashion has basically tak-
colours. “Pick a colour out of your dress to accessorize with a great
en off,” notes Redl, “Ten years ago in Edmonton the style wasn’t
pair of shoes, but don’t get too matchy-matchy,” Redl warns. And
very big.”
nothing too short or too tight – it has to be classy.
So what are Derby-goers doing differently today? From what I
As per usual, Men have it easier. Ultimately, men can get away
understood of Redl, patrons are making it more of an event, an
with tailored jeans and a crisp summer jacket in the stands. In the
excuse to get dressed up. Women typically wear “classy, flowy,
restaurant or the VIP section though, Redl encourages the guys to
sleeveless dresses with a great pattern.” This fashionista knows
“rock it out with a really great summer suit.” Recent key trends in-
what’s up-- this year she traveled to the Kentucky Derby to scout
clude bow ties, three piece suits and pocket squares.
out new trends. I ask her how Edmonton stacks up and she’s impressed – “attendees, the ladies especially, have really stepped
Of course, I have to ask about hats – the quintessential Derby ac-
it up. They take dressing for the race very seriously.”
cessory is still ever-present today. Men are also starting to wear hats more often, especially fedoras in light colours. For women,
When asked to give style advice to prospective Derby attend-
anything goes: bejewelled, wide brim, pops of colour, you name it.
ees, Redl begins with the dresses and suggests that “women
But not all hats are kosher (think toques or trucker hats). For those
will want to wear bright, juicy spring hues: melons, oranges, yel-
less hat-savvy, Redl reassures me that there will be plenty of hats
11 georgie
available on site for purchase, even custom pieces.
in a casual city: it seems Edmontonians will grab any opportunity they can to dress slovenly in t-shirts, shorts and rubber sandals.
“You don’t have to be serious about fashion to have fun here,”
Cheers to The Canadian Derby for inspiring us to dress our best
says Redl. I love this sentiment – it makes me want to take big-
in the summertime. Plus, where else can you meet Princess Fancy
ger risks with my Derby outfit. I envision myself dressed all in
Dancer?
white with a hat the size of a small ottoman à la Eliza Doolittle from My Fair Lady.You’ll know it’s me because I’ll be screaming
Finally a convergence of sports and style, high class and action.
at Sir Trots-a-Lot to move his “bloomin’ arse” with an atrocious
This isn’t your typical sporting event. This is fashion meets excite-
cockney accent.
ment meets tradition meets ladies who lunch. This is our kind of party and it’s in our backyard so grab your hat and meet me in the
Edmonton needs more action like this: style and tradition in a
grandstands. I’ll save you a Mint Julep.
sophisticated setting that isn’t stuffy. It’s also thrilling because of the gamble – which bet paid off more, Hurricane Benny (who
The Canadian Derby is at Northlands Park, Saturday, August 21st, 2010.
won the Derby in 1990) or your high-waisted skirt?
Corporate and private bookings available, and VIP parties available. Visit www.thehorses.com for more information.
I love Edmonton in the summer. It’s the only time of year we can go outside without losing all feeling in our toes. But we live
georgie
C
LLEEN NU
TEXT CO
design
AMPAGNE
SHLEY CH
Photo A
like Bamboo Ballroom, St. Albert’s Meese clothing, and independent clothing stores in both Winnipeg and Vancouver.
It is nearly impossible to have a conversation about the Edmonton
Sitting in a trendy Southside coffee shop for her interview with
fashion scene without mentioning Suka Design. Fronted by 28-
Georgie, it’s hard not to notice the quirky designer. Dressed in a
year-old mastermind Ali Schick, Suka Design is paving the way as
daring fringed black top and a perfectly tailored blazer, Schick is
Edmonton’s most notorious fashion label. From pencil skirts to 50’s
definitely a head turner. The designer is stunningly beautiful, even
inspired dresses, the local label can be found in Edmonton hotspots
when she devours a chocolate croissant in two seconds flat.
13 georgie
Hair Anastasia Boruk & Morgan Willard (Ponytails & Horseshoes) Makeup Nicola Gavins Models Chelsea Mondoux, Krista Deady
“I’m kind of a workaholic but I’m finding that I’m balancing a lot better lately. I think that once you become more established, you start “I come up with the concept, research the fabrics, grade the drafting…I
finding your groove.”
guess you could say I do kind of everything with my label,” says the
Schick created Suka Design fresh out of college in 2001, after join-
designer. “It’s a little more than I can handle but I’m handling it.”
ing the downtown graffiti-inspired clothing store and hip hop studio,
Not only is the young designer involved in every step of her clothing
Mode Sensory Gear. “While working for MSG, I used to draw these
line, Schick also teaches the Fashion Design and Apparel Produc-
little cartoon characters and attach little sayings to them. One day I
tion program at Marvel College and works full time at Edmonton’s
drew a character with her tongue sticking out, and I wrote ‘You’re
Foosh apparel on Whyte Avenue. All this and Ali was still 15 minutes
a sucka’ next to her. I guess I’m a horrible speller because some-
early for her Georgie interview. In other words, calling Ali Schick of
one pointed out that I had forgotten the ‘c’ in sucka, but I thought
Suka Design “ambitious” would be an understatement.
it looked really cool. It was four letters and they’re great letters for
couver or Toronto to be successful is the wrong mentality. You are the only one who can hold yourself back, not your environment. If I didn’t graffiti, so I just went with it.” It wasn’t until a few years later that Schick
have the people here [in Edmonton] to inspire me, I wouldn’t have had
found out a few different meanings for the word. “A couple of polish
these ideas and these experiences. Designers are a dime a dozen in
ladies were laughing at my label one day and they told me that suka
Toronto, so the competition is insane. I like the fact that I can do what I
means ‘slut’ in Polish,” she says with a laugh. “Afterwards, I looked up
want to do in Edmonton and go in the direction I want to go in. Edmon-
the word on the Internet and found out that there are quite a few differ-
ton made me grow as both a designer and an individual.”
ent meanings!”
Edmonton isn’t the only inspiration for Suka Design. “I’m always sur-
Despite the various meanings of the word “suka”, Suka Design is con-
rounded by inspiration,” says Schick, “It’s every person you’ve met,
tinuing to grow as a prominent Edmonton clothing line, but Schick says
every experience you’ve had, everything you’ve done in your life, it all
she couldn’t have had the success she’s had without the support from
contributes to how you design. My designs are so much a part of my
independent local clothing stores.
personality.” And you can tell that Schick has grown with her designs.
“I actually forced my way into working at Foosh. I was like ‘you have
Her first collection involved furnace foam and aquarium tubing. “It
to hire me!’ because I knew that they had their own clothing line. So I
had a very New City, raver, hacker feel to it,” she explains. “I’ve defi-
weaseled my way into getting a job and setting up a tiny studio in the
nitely grown! My next collection coming out is inspired by geometry.”
backroom of the store. They actually let me do this and I ended up
So what kind of person wears Suka Design? “The girl with the secret
making a little [clothing] line for the store.”
persona,” says the designer. “She has a day job where she is very pro-
Since then, Suka Design has expanded into both Whyte Avenue’s Bam-
fessional, maybe wears a fun piece to the office, but can really let loose
boo Ballroom and St. Albert’s Meese clothing. “When Bamboo opened
after work. (Laughs) She’s a lady that maybe has a ‘suka’ side!”
up it was more [of the style] I wanted to do, and where I wanted to be.
Nearing the end of the interview, I decided to ask the successful de-
Their style is a little more extreme. I cornered the owners one day and
signer one last crucial question. If Suka Design were to dress Snooki
told them ‘you need me to make you clothes.’ It was pretty much said
from MTV’s Jersey Shore, what would Ali Schick choose?
and done right there.”
“Oh goodness! I’d probably give her this top I’m wearing,” she says,
As for the supposed lifespan of the success of an Edmonton-based
pointing to the little black fringe number. “It’s got a little bit of cheesi-
artist before being forced to travel to a bigger market, Schick says
ness but there’s still some breast situation going on. I don’t know, she’s
that Edmonton is a healthy and nurturing environment for local artists.
almost not cool enough for [Suka Design]!”
On this note, she remarks,“Thinking that moving to a big city like Van-
15 georgie
georgie
cover
EDWARD
SHARPE AND THE
MAGNETIC
ZEROS TEXT HEATHER NOEL
Photo Ashley CHAMPAGNE
I am surrounded. Its June 3rd, and Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros are just hours away from playing to a full house at The Starlite Room. I was expecting some time alone with front man Alex Ebert and singer Jade Castrinos to ask a few questions. Now I find myself on their tour bus with at least eight of the band’s ten travelling members all watching patiently as I fumble to turn on my sound recorder. It’s surprisingly quiet and a little intimidating. For a band known for high energy performances, this feels like the calm before the storm.
17 georgie
“How’s your tour going?” I ask as a warm up question and re-
keep it balanced... to intentionally remember who we are and why
sponses irrupt from around the vehicle. “Great.” “Insane.” “Fan-
we’re here and the roots of it all,” Alex says.
tastically well.” I search for a hint of sarcasm amongst the voices
The band’s namesake comes from a story of Alex’s own creation, in
but there is none to be found. Of course, it’s only a week into their
which a man named Edward Sharpe is sent from above to save the
two and a half month tour, but the band already appears to have
world but keeps falling in love and getting distracted. The idea of di-
lost track of time. “This is our sixth show, right?” Alex asks. There
vinity seems inextricably linked to the band, and their formation also
is some discourse over whether this is their third or fourth time on
feels fittingly predestined. The group had its tentative beginnings in
the road and the group seems almost surprised to admit they’ve
2007 when, as the story goes, Alex met Jade. Then the lead singer
only been performing together for just under a year.
of Ima Robot, Alex kicked off a transitional period in his life with a
It’s been an eventful year for the Magnetic Zeros, beginning with
breakup and a twelve-step addiction program. It was during this
the release of their debut album Up From Below. The band’s
time that most of the songs on the album were penned, including the
radio-friendly brand of indie-rock recalls flower powered days
June-and-Johnny inspired hit single “Home”, co-written by Jade. From
gone by and has earned them a devoted audience and sold out
there the band continued to grow; one by one musicians were added
performances. They’ve performed on David Letterman, and have
as if delivered by fate. Now at ten members, the group could be mis-
had songs appear in several television shows. They’re trying not
taken for a nomadic hippy commune. They’ve even begun to think
to let it get to their heads. “I think there’s a conscious effort to
of themselves as family. “That’s the only thing that makes sense...that
19 georgie
we would’ve stuck together this long,” Alex states emphatically. “I
Now the room is buzzing with voices excitedly reminiscing. I’m
think if we were just a band we would’ve already dismembered
having difficulty keeping track of who is saying what. Someone
and dismantled and remantled eight times at this point.”
sums up the process in the form of a proposal, “Let’s zoom out
That group dynamic is an integral part of the band’s appeal, and
and make a song, and if it approximates a song then great, and
it translates to their album. The gang is eager to talk about the
the errors become the magical thing that people like about it.
recording process, specifically the decision to go analog. Found-
That’s very human.”
ing member Nico Aglietti explains, “It was all about [using] al-
This spontaneity is a quality the band tries to harness nightly in
most partially improvised group performance as the bed of the
their live act. It is accomplished through what Alex calls “a gener-
track and then we would build on that, but it was done within this
al childishness, and a sloppiness within that.” He continues, “We
restrictive setting because we had only 24 tracks. There wasn’t
don’t have our set list worked out...and [maybe] one of us is in a
an endless amount of things we could do with it.” He goes on,
bad mood and we’re expressing it...it’s just not polished in that
“You’re not referencing a visual guide like a bunch of wave forms
sort of way that rubs off any kind of nowness.”
passing by. You’re looking at each other, and it’s a group effort.”
The live show has also earned Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic
“It’s more fun to record that way too,” Alex adds, “because the
Zeros the bizarre reputation of being “happy”, a quality that has
whole time if the take is good, you can feel it when it’s good and
become so rare in the music world it’s considered a novelty. I sug-
then you get nervous as you get towards the end.”
gest that being openly happy could be considered a revolution-
21 georgie
ary act. To this, Alex responds favourably, “I think it’s pretty damn
Alex admits, “That’s the high for me personally. That’s where the
revolutionary. Even just on a personal level for myself, going from
growth is happening. If you’re not vulnerable, you don’t need
a kid [who] thought that it was really cool to not smile, to suddenly
courage.”
allow yourself to just be. Really I think what everyone ultimately
I wonder aloud if their music serves as a kind of therapy for their
wants is joy, and the suppression of that is a really prevalent thing
fans. “[It’s] therapy for me,” Jade chimes in. It is one of the few
in coolness.”
times she’s spoken up in the whole interview. At another moment
Another member, I think it’s the piano player, expands on this, “If
she sits up unexpectedly and asks me what my birthday is. I tell
somebody comes in and they are a little more like “the attitude”,
her. “Are you into zodiac signs?” I ask. “Maybe,” she says enig-
I think it kind of dissipates really quickly because the overall en-
matically and shrinks back in her seat. Although she is considered
vironment in the room is really encouraging. And then you really
by many to be the front woman of the band, Jade seems content
stand out if you’re keeping yourself closed off.... I can feel if I start
to fade into the background in this setting. I am told she even sug-
to close off a little bit. It’s really obvious because I start to feel
gested that Georgie leave her out of the cover photo. She may
separation, so it keeps us in check too.”
see herself as just another band member, but it seems fair to say
You might think that stripping the show of it’s usual structure and
her real position in the band is as muse. There is even a song on
artifice would leave a performer feeling a little too vulnerable, but
the album named after her, a devotional containing lyrics such as,
The Magnetic Zeros seem to thrive on it. “I think that’s the rush,”
“I swear she’s come to fill us with power/It’s Jade the girl of the
“i think there’s a conscious effort to keep it balanced... to intentionally remember who we are and why we’re here and the roots of it all” hour!” Her vital role in the band comes fully into focus however
that’s been guiding us and we don’t talk about it that much as a
during the live performance. On stage she is the focal point. As
band, we just we talk about it very generally.”
she sings, her maniacal smile is utterly contagious and her joyous
The room has fallen quiet and a hard rain has begun to rumble
whirling is completely captivating.
against the roof of the bus. It’s cozy and I am no longer intimidated
With all that unabashed happiness and love floating around the
by the large group. As the interview slowly winds to a close, I’m
stage, fans could be forgiven for thinking The Magnetic Zeros
thankful to the rain for the small excuse to linger, but the band
have some secret insights on the world. Do these guys have it all
must be on it’s way. Showtime is fast approaching and it’s time
figured out?
for them to get ready. It’s what they were sent here to do. The real
Unanimously the room responds in the negative. “I think we’re fig-
storm is about to start.
uring it out through song,” one voice says.
“Each show sort of feels like an opportunity for me,” Alex says,
“I think we are attracted to an idea,” Alex responds, “There’s an
almost to himself. “To jump in the universe car.”
image of it to me. There’s a fuzzy sort of image of something that’s better...something that is worked out in a way that seems more harmonious with everyone’s spirits and that feels more in line with the truth of things and our existence on Earth... putting it in words is really difficult but i think we are attracted to some sort of idea
Hair Sarah Cameron (Fluid Hair) Makeup Nicola Gavins
TEXT GRACE GLOWICKI Photo ASHLEY CHAMPAGNE
When trying to describe Cordelia Chan’s artwork, I find myself at a
Chan makes no attempt to narrowly define her influences. Instead
loss for words. Although her pieces display undeniable qualities of
she remarks that she is influenced by “everything” – whether it is
cartoons, anime, graffiti and Chinese ink paintings, they somehow re-
something she has simply seen or personally experienced. “Also,”
main fiercely unclassifiable.
she adds with a giggle, “everyone knows I love bunny rabbits.” And
I met the young Edmonton artist for a drink and her words articulated what
although her work does exude a certain light-heartedness, it defi-
I had been struggling to put my finger on. “My work is very illustrative, kind
nitely contains darker undertones, most notably her eerie illustra-
of whimsical [...] it looks like something you might dream about.”
tions of figures containing both human and animal characteristics.
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29 25 georgie
profile
Armed with a degree in pharmacology, Chan maintains a full-time
ous animals... and to put nature on a higher pedestal then we do now.”
position in a lab as well as being an incredibly active contributor to the
Although Chan has created a comfortable artistic niche for her-
Edmonton art scene. She has done advertisements for The Common,
self, she still hopes for change in our city’s art community. As an
was featured in Notebook Magazine, has illustrated for Georgie, has
example, she mentioned ‘Free For All’, a 2007 exhibit at the Art
currated a show featuring local female artists, and is continually in-
Gallery of Alberta which allowed anyone in the public at large to
vited back to Latitude 53’s ‘53 Ways to LeaveYour Lover’. Through her
submit artwork. “The slew of talent that came out for that was ri-
countless commissions and personal projects, Chan has transformed
diculous, [...] I think the Art Gallery is doing good things, but I’ve
skateboards, canvasses, wood panels, Munny dolls, and even wallpa-
never really thought it has been doing enough,” explains Chan. “I
per, with her fantastical art.
still feel like it’s really conservative around here,” she remarks and
Chan uses a plethora of mediums, but for the last year her focus has
amicably adds, “If you paint prairie landscapes, you’re probably
been on inks. She is currently creating an anthropomorphic series of
good to go.”
wood panels inked with images of animals each donning a unique
Chan’s work is undeniably the brainchild of a younger generation
and regal crown. Her motive is to “show the personalities of the vari-
and it’s no surprise that she struggles with broader society’s con-
servative tastes. “I think a lot of people still stigmatize art they see as ‘low-brow’, especially when people buy art for their home. It kind of irks me when all they can think of is IKEA because they think it’s amazing and cheap [...] I think that people are arbitrarily missing out on so much good art, and so much original art.” Stubbornly modest, Chan says, “I still have so much to do and so far to go. Hopefully I’ll just keep getting better and better, and the stuff I do now is just a stepping stone – just shots of moments in my career as an artist, if that’s what you want to call it.” The ‘shots of the moments’ are pretty damn good – her work is staunchly original and a refreshing break from prairie landscapes. Conforming to no traditional school or style of art, Cordelia Chan’s work is evidence that the Edmonton independent art scene is alive and well.
“My work is very illustrative, kind of whimsical - it looks something you might dream about”
georgie
27 georgie
beauty
Photo Ashley Champagne Hair Lauren Hughes (Mousy Browns) Makeup & Styling Nicola Gavins Makeup Assistant DenĂŠe Noel Accessories Bamboo Ballroom Models Amanda T., Cierra J., Shyloe F. (Hi-Fi Models)
Photo & Styling Ashley Champagne Model Ivana Tisler Makeup Nicola Gavins Hair Corin Berry (Ricci Hair)
HAIR PIECE: Nicola Gavins | Ring: (Harriet Gray) Bamboo Ballroom Bathing Suit: (Esther Williams) Mars and Venus | Vest and Boots: Stylists Own 33 georgie
Swan Sunglasses: Mars and Venus | Shirt: (Joe) Bamboo Ballroom Bloomers: American Apparel | Knee Highs: Stylists own
Button Earrings: (Abigail) Nokomis | Bracelet & STOCKINGS: Stylist’s own Cardigan: (Numph) Bamboo Ballroom | Bikini: (Cuche) Nokomis Shoes: (Kenneth Cole Reaction) Gravitypope
Necklace: (This Ilk) Nokomis | Bra: Stylists own Shorts: (Valerie Numaine) Bamboo Ballroom
Bra & Nylons: Stylists own | Earrings: (Buenos Style) Nokomis Ring: Swish Vintage
Ring: (Uranium) Bamboo Ballroom | Dress: (Religion) Bamboo Ballroom Boots: (Vic Matie) Gravitypope | Luggage: Swish Vintage
PHOTO Ashley Champagne | STYLIST Ali Schick & Colleen Mcginn HAIR STYLIST Anastastia Boruk | MAKEUP Nicola Gavins MODELS una Momolu & Fela Fagbure
STyLIST: Ali Schick | ToP: (Mink Pink) Bamboo Ballroom BIKINI SHoRTS: American Apparel | BoxING GLoVES, BRACELETS: Stylists own 51 39 georgie
STyLIST: Ali SCHICK | BuRN ouT CRoP TEE: (Alternative Apparel) Foosh BLEACHED ouT DENIM SHoRTS: American Apparel | NECKLACE AND HAND WRAPS: Stylists own
STYLIST: Ali Schick | DRESS: Stylist Own
STYLIST: Colleen Mcginn | HEAD PIECE & EARRINGS: Stylist Own leather necklace: (Natalia Brilli) Gravitypope Tailored Goods
STYLIST: Colleen Mcginn | Dashiki: (Complex Geometries) Nokomis Gold bathing suit: American Apparel | Wooden Earrings: IZM
STYLIST: Ali Schick | smooth caramel jacket: Nomin Gantumur harem pant: (by Gabriella Cruz, Cruz Designs) Bamboo Ballroom SHOES & BRACELETS: Stylists Own
STYLIST: Colleen Mcginn | cropped leather jacket: (Preen) Gravitypope Tailored Goods Gold bando: American Apparel delux sequence jeans: (Markus Lupfer) Gravitypope Tailored Goods
STYLIST: Colleen Mcginn | SUNGLASSES: (Karen Walker) Gravitypope Tailored Goods sliced leather wristband: (Natalia Brilli) Gravitypope Tailored Goods
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design
tEXt HEATHER NOEL
PhOtO PAUL SWANSON
For Edmonton’s City Centre, even a little change can be a big deal.
Can you tell us a bit about your motivation behind the design
We’re no strangers to new development of course; it’s hard to conjure
for the aGa?
up a mental image of downtown without the presence of scaffolding
R.S.: My motivation was to give expression to an institution that was
and cranes. But while office towers and condominium complexes
broadening its mission and evolving into a place that celebrates di-
have continued to sprout up before us, our cultural institutions and
versity in visual arts for an entire province. My take on this expression
public spaces have yearned for revitalization. Many of the city’s re-
was to make this building resonate with its place, climate, geography
cent attempts to improve the downtown core have been underwhelm-
and urban setting.
ing, most notably the transformation of Winston Churchill Square from a large empty patch of grass to a large empty slab of concrete.
how would you describe the aGa’s structural composition?
So when plans for the new Edmonton Art Gallery (now The Art Gal-
R.S.: There are two structural approaches to the addition, both done
lery of Alberta) were released back in 2005, the excitement was pal-
in structural steel framing, and of course the existing spaces that were
pable. The original structure, built in 1969, was now too small to house
re-used have the structural concrete of the original building. The first
the gallery’s growing permanent collection. Also, due to structural defi-
steel frame approach was for the box shaped and cantilevered por-
ciencies, the gallery could not maintain environmental conditions that had
tions, which have a steel truss along the outer walls, allowing a column-
become museum standards. Although the daring new design was highly
free interior for the galleries. The second approach, and the one most
divisive, even the most skeptical seemed to welcome the change.
challenging, was the use of bent steel tubes to form the curving geom-
Now, over 4 years after its original conception and just 6 months since
etry of the atrium.
the new AGA opened it’s doors, the public’s enthusiasm has yet to subside. Recently, Georgie had the opportunity to talk to AGA archi-
how did the composition lead to your choice of materials?
tect Randall Stout via email about his design, sustainability, and the
R.S.: We expressed the two structural solutions with different materials
future of Edmonton.
– zinc for the box shapes and stainless steel for the curves.
49 georgie
Was your design restricted by Alberta ‘s extreme northern climate?
What is the most structurally complex project you have completed?
R.S.: We looked at the climate issues as design opportunities. For ex-
R.S.: Both the AGA and the Taubman Museum of Art are equally com-
ample we chose to express rather than hide the way the building could
plex but in different ways.
look and be experienced during snowfall and with snow coverage. Also, we found ways to accomplish the interesting cantilevers of the curved
Do you feel that the role/importance of architecture has
forms with thermally-isolated steel connections. To accomplish these
changed in recent years?
things, we had a lot of technical assistance from talented consultants and
R.S.: Now, more than anytime in my career, architecture is recognized
contractors regarding issues of cold, wind, ice and snow.
as an element that shapes demand and market share. Whether you are building a cultural institution, a sports facility, a campus building or
What are some other distinctive features found in the design
condos, good design really matters..
of the AGA? R.S.: The grand stair: its supporting structure is a single concrete col-
What are some signature design elements found in a Randall Stout
umn which is wrapped in translucent panels that glow from within – not
project that would not been seen in other architectural designs?
what you expect from a structural column. Also, the light well to the ped-
R.S.: My buildings often have cantilevers and unique shapes. These
way/LRT levels: it changes this formerly dark and difficult connection to
devices serve to make public spaces that are intrinsically linked to
an enjoyable space and inviting experience.
their surroundings, whether urban or a part of the landscape.You don’t go inside and leave the city or landscape behind; rather, you go in and
You have been referred to as a passionate advocate for environmen-
are a participant in a new dialogue between intriguing geometry and
tal responsibility.What types of green design went into the AGA?
the neighbouring conditions. Many visitors say that they feel uplifted or
R.S.: From its inception, the new Art Gallery of Alberta design has incor-
joyous when entering my buildings. Some have even said they experi-
porated sustainable design strategies and energy concepts. These ele-
ence a childlike wonderment. Maybe that’s not a signature element but
ments bring their own aesthetic characteristics to the building design
an emotive reaction. I like that my buildings entice this response.
palette that includes the consideration of form, space, light, shadow, and materiality. Collectively, these elements yield a cohesive and integrated
How do you envision cities such as Edmonton looking 50 years from now?
solution to environmental considerations. This solution not only makes
R.S.: I expect there will be more density on the near periphery of down-
the space more pleasant and comfortable for the occupants, but will
town, especially at places well served by transit systems. I also expect
limit the use of non-renewable natural resources throughout the life of
that Edmonton’s buildings will likely be harvesting solar energy or self-
the project.
generating their own power. It seems inevitable that we are headed
[environmental strategies employed include:]
toward urban zones with a net-zero basis regarding carbon dioxide
Daylighting / Sun Control, Efficient Lighting Systems, Efficient Heating
emissions and fossil fuel consumption. The exciting thing is that with pro-
and Cooling systems, Indoor Air Quality through use of low VOCs
gressing technology, especially at the nanoscale, and creative integra-
Water Conservation, Reuse of Existing Structure, Recycled Content Ma-
tion of energy components, there will be many opportunities for design
terials, Recyclable Materials.
innovation. There are some challenging yet exciting times ahead.
georgie
cares
TEXT NATHAN MARSHALL
51 georgie
It’s been just over six months since the 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti. As this half-year has flown by, the Haiti headlines have dwindled from the news and donations have significantly decreased. It is believed that the devastating earthquake left over 220,000 dead, more than 300,000 seriously injured and more than 1.5 million in need of emergency shelter. Currently thousands are camped out in the nation’s capital, Port-au-Prince, living in deplorable, unsanitary conditions. While the previously donated funds have been enough to provide basic necessities such as food and water, more aid is needed to rebuild the damaged nation. The problem now is that homeless Haitians require aid in order to weather the annual tropical storms. Current shelters are composed primarily of tarps which cannot adequately withstand extreme tropical weather. The focus has thus shifted from emergency aid to the construction of sturdier housing and the prevention of the spread of disease. A charity supergroup that continues to raise money for the ongoing relief effort is Young Artists for Haiti. This collection of over 50 well-known Canadian artists including Drake, Broken Social Scene, Esthero, Metric, and Nelly Furtado released a new rendition of K’naan;s inspiring anthem, “Wavin Flag”. Typically the appeal of these all-star humanitarian collaborations is to utilize the public’s fascination with celebrity to raise funds or awareness for charities. Some great examples of this have been USA for Africa, Band Aid I & II, and Artists Against Aids Worldwide. This new all-Canadian cast has followed its successful predecessors with a song that really captures the passion and determination of the Haitian people. Since its release on March 12, the single has debuted at number one on the “Hot Canadian 100” and has inspired a large mass of Canadians to contribute generously. One hundred percent of the profits are given back to participating humanitarian groups, namely Free The Children, War Child and World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine. The advantage of supporting War Child and 30 Hour Famine is that these groups were already working in Haiti long before the earthquake struck, making them well-educated on how best to distribute aid. Supporting these reliefs includes the distribution of emergency supplies, child protection, education and primary health care. If you haven’t done so already, please visit www.youngartistsforhaiti.net and purchase the single, “Wavin Flag”. They also have some great t-shirts and stickers available online.
For more information on Y.A.F.H. please visit: www.youngartistsforhaiti.net