VOL 4 SEPTEMBER 2020
Beauty is radiant joyful confident kind timeless
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September 2020
Highlights Note A message from the Modern Luxuria team 6 Profile Q & A’s with Cara McLeod, Edmonton’s opera singer 10 Fashion PaperDoll Clothing — from friendship to a successful business venture 20 Style An unexpected fashion accessory 30 Business Passion for aviation taken to new heights — a conversation with Michael Stimac 36 Art Hanny Khoury’s vision of what’s hidden behind our fragile bodies and minds 40 Cocktails End the night with Purple Rain at Edmonton’s best known secret new lounge 46 Cuisine Canteen — institution status with ever-evolving menu 54
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www.modernluxuria.com
‘‘
What a luxury it was for people to be able to hold their loved ones whenever they wanted.
’’
— Cecelia Ahern
Edmonton always welcomes September in style. The city is lush, vibrant and happy; people are exploring the river valley, neighbourhoods, bike paths, hiking trails. Our September weather is usually wonderful (no one mentions two years ago when it snowed in September, let’s say that never happened) and we’re getting ready to embrace fall, along with fall fashions and pumpkin spice lattes. Fall equinox will ensure that our days and nights are almost equal in length, and that’s an adjustment for many. After living through daylight till 10:30 pm, we slowly transition into shorter days, and earlier darkness hours. It’s always so beautiful to watch the river valley change the colours from vibrant green to all shades of fall; our Instagram feeds are flooded with great scenery from our city and great local fashions. This year, unlike any other year, has many of us planning back-toschool strategies with our kids, as well as back to the office/work/ business. So many people spent months distancing themselves as much as possible, so this will be a change and an adjustment to all. Another significant event this September will be our launch, that was meant to happen a few months ago but needed to be postponed. While we’re still concerned about the pandemic, we decided to host the launch. We’re taking all measures, and going above and beyond to ensure safety as our first concern during the event. Physical distancing, masks and hand sanitizers, and a limited number of guests are only some of the precautions we’re taking, and you can visit our website to get full details. We’re so excited to partner with Wolfe Cadillac, in their beautiful new venue, and host a fashion show, -6-
Left to Right: Olympia Trencevski, M
September 2020
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Marlenie Arana, Tracy Sestito, Serap Ozturk, Terri Belley, Elsa Amorim
networking event, and celebrate the launch of Modern Luxuria. We want to celebrate you, our supporters. If you’re not joining us in person, please join us through live streams on social media. And while we’re all still patiently waiting for the time we can hug the people we love, we hope you’re enjoying our magazine, and reading about the community leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs. Together, we all contribute to building a great city, and together we will overcome all the challenges that come our way. Enjoy this *hopefully* beautiful September, and don’t forget to share your luxuries with us! — Modern Luxuria Team -7-
www.modernluxuria.com
PUBLISHED BY MODERN LUXURIA LTD.
FOUNDER Elsa Amorim
CONTRIBUTORS Ruth Bancroft Dylan Bastable Jelena Bojic Joe Gurba Amber Prepchuk Tatyana Semenova
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Terri Belley ASSOCIATE EDITOR Erin Slobodian MANAGING EDITOR Karen Meurer BRAND AMBASSADORS Marlenie Arana Serap Ozturk Tracy Sestito
Cover Photographed by Tatyana Semenova
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EDMONTON’S PREMIER DIGITAL GUIDE TO LUXURY AND LIFESTYLE
ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY HELLO@ MODERNLUXURIA.COM | PHONE 780-906-7235
www.modernluxuria.com
- 10 -
September 2020
Connecting with People Through Art, Spirituality and Joy: Q&A’s with Cara McLeod WORDS BY JELENA BOJIC PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
I was doing my usual walk on a Sunday afternoon through the beautiful Millcreek ravine, then over to the Cloverdale area and up the Gallagher hill (that’s where I usually lose my breath and need to take a break) but this particular Sunday, I stopped for another reason. This amazing voice was travelling over the whole area, singing Ave Maria. The sky was clear, Gallagher hill was just starting to get green, the city looked so peaceful. I sat down on the grass, feeling grateful for being there at that moment. Other walkers and joggers were stopping, looking around and sharing the same sense of being thankful to hear this voice, this song. Later that evening, watching the news, I heard the same music and saw the segment; Cara Lianne McLeod was interviewed about her balcony performances during covid quarantine and what it did for people passing by. I met Cara years ago at the Edmonton Opera’s Aida. I was thrilled to sit down with Cara and catch up. ▶
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www.modernluxuria.com
Tell us about your music, how did you get started
setting is a memory I won’t forget. The second is
and what drew you to classical music?
an intimate cabaret I sang for with Opera NUOVA…I
I’ve been singing virtually all my life and took private
was so sick with strep throat, but much of my family
voice lessons as a teen. In my early twenties I sang
and friends took up almost half of the small
country and pop music, doing some recording and
restaurant, and shortly after my aunt passed away,
singing in karaoke competitions (even singing at
who had been in attendance. She was there, with
the CFR Talent Search finals at Northlands Colise-
support from my whole family, in the middle of a
um!). At 25 I joined a choir and we performed with
cold winter, wrapped in blankets in her wheelchair
other choirs and the Edmonton Youth Orchestra led
with her oxygen tanks, and the warmth of the con-
by Michael Massey…there were 4 soloists at the front
nection and the music made the rest of the world
singing what I now know are works from an Orato-
slip away for that evening. Now that I’m remember-
rio, and I was mesmerized by their voices. Not long
ing these, I realize there are so many more and I am
after that I moved to Fort McMurray with my part-
filled with gratitude for so many of my experiences!
ner at the time, and after deciding that being a legal
Some aren’t even my performances — they are ex-
secretary likely wasn’t my calling, I began my clas-
periences I’ve had teaching and watching my stu-
sical and opera singing journey at Keyano College.
dents perform and connect with various audiences.
Laura Glover, my teacher at the time, loved opera and shared that passion with me. I later went on to
How did people respond to your balcony
study at University of Western Ontario (UWO) and
performances during the quarantine?
obtained an Artist Diploma in Performance. I love
For the most part, people have been receptive and
the sheer beauty of the genre, and how I am con-
supportive. The very first one was at the end of that
stantly challenged and learning new things about
first week of lockdown. I was compelled to sing on
my voice, the music, the artistry, and
my balcony after watching the Italian coverage of
humanity through music.
the same type of performances…it moved me so much, and I realized I could perhaps lift people’s
Your favourite performance ever was…?
spirits too with music. I meant to perform a small
Oooh this is a tough one…I always answer this
set for my residents at my 4-building condo com-
question that it is where my heart is in the moment.
plex, and my neighbours who are close friends,
I do have a few moments that stand out, all for dif-
decided that they would contact the media because
ferent reasons, and all directly related to the connec-
they loved the idea.
tion I felt with the audience and/or my colleagues at the time. One is singing the role of Contessa in the
We saw you on stage with Edmonton Opera, as
Marriage of Figaro in the courtyard of the Catholic
well as Mercury Opera, in some fantastic roles.
Church, Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza in Rome, Italy, with
Where else have you performed?
Operafestival di Roma. My parents didn’t travel
I have performed quite a bit with Alberta
internationally much in their lives, but they came,
Symphony Orchestra, led by Emilio De Mercato,
along with my sister and some close friends, to see
including the 2015 inaugural tour of Alberta. Re-
the performance. Singing in the open air with a
cently I also had my debut with Calgary Civic Sym-
professional Italian Orchestra in such an exquisite
phony, and have performed a couple of times in BC. - 12 -
September 2020
Are you always a performer at family
Favourite vacation spot?
gatherings?
Italy…and there are so many more places I’d love
(Smiles) Often, yes, depending on the situation.
to experience!
The most difficult was likely singing at my mom’s funeral in 2014.
Any new hobbies you picked up during quarantine?
Do you sing in the shower?
Posting videos singing pop and country music
I love this question! I don’t really, because I live in a
(sometimes while playing the piano marginally)…
condo and the neighbours informed me that they
that felt new and old at the same time. Does that
could hear me oo’ing and ah’ing just when I was
count? I tried playing Nintendo and doing puzzles,
watching performances, so I think if they could hear
but neither of those hobbies stuck with me.
that, my singing in the shower would be too loud for them! They’ve been wonderful with my practicing,
Top three luxury items?
though, so I’ll sing anywhere else in my home.
This question makes me tear up. I am so grateful for so many things…and can only hope that in my
Your favourite podcast?
life I will give back enough to balance my karma.
I listen to a huge variety of podcasts, depending
First, I would have to say that I just bought my first
on my mood and what I’m thinking of in the
condo that I’ve ever purchased on my own. It has
moment - some subjects I listen to are about the
a view of the river valley, which is something I have
mind/music connection, some philosophy, and lots
always wanted!
about mental health and spiritual growth. I love The Tony Howell Podcast, and am often inspired by
Second, I find it a complete luxury (that oddly
Super Soul Conversations.
enough, Covid has created), to order my healthy groceries from the Italian Centre, and have them
What do you do in your free time?
loaded into my car when I pick them up, with the
Primarily pre-covid I was salsa and bachata
friendliest and accommodating staff. Lastly, I would
dancing a few times a week, and also fairly recently
say that joy (and health, really) is my top luxury item;
have started boxing training. I love going for walks
I am able to move through the world using my voice
and road trips, and spending time with people I
to sing, and to connect with people about spiritual-
love. Although not strict regular practices, I enjoy
ity, humanity, and strive to live a heart-centred life
yoga and meditation as well.
every day. That is a luxury that so many in the world are not fortunate to experience, so I am unbelievably
You’re feeling most at home when you are in…?
grateful for that.
If I am connected to myself in the moment…this can happen when I’m sharing a huge laugh with someone, looking in someone’s eyes, standing on stage, on a walk in the trees, or sitting on my sofa.
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www.modernluxuria.com
Akith Dissanayake and Charlotte Jensen
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September 2020
Bespoke Suits for Every Identity One male dominated industry gets a makeover WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Edmonton’s hand-made suit industry
Dissanayake’s passion for tailoring is
is now expanding into one that is more
matched by that of his spouse. “My baby
inclusive. In addition to creating bespoke
has been introducing women’s and non-
suits for men, Su Misura Bespoke is
conforming tailoring,” admits Jensen
growing to include a market that isn’t
who says it’s difficult for men to find a
as well served: bespoke suits for women
suit that fits properly but it can be even
and non-gender conforming people. The
more difficult for women and non-gender
tailors, Akith Dissanayake and Charlotte
conforming people whose body shapes
Jensen, are newlyweds and are tackling
can vary widely. She wants to help them
the market together. “Tailoring has
feel fabulous in a well-fitted suit. So what
traditionally been focused on men and
can someone expect when buying a
now anybody can have a bespoke suit,”
bespoke suit from Su Misura Bespoke? It
said Jensen, who is apprenticing as a
starts with a phone interview where the
tailor under Dissanayake who is a trained
lifestyle of the client is asked about. “We
“cutter”. A cutter is someone who maps
want to create a garment that will fit into
and cuts patterns for suits from fabric
our client’s life rather than the other way
that are based on the measurements,
around,” said Dissanayake. Next, they talk
style, and needs of a client. The tailor-
with their clients about fabric and style.
couple feels that having the choice of
Su Misura then pulls fabric samples and
a female or male tailor will give some
during the initial in-person consultation
clients a level of comfort and fortunately,
they take measurements. ▶
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Black Suit
PHOTOS SUPPLIED
www.modernluxuria.com
Then the tailor creates a pattern, cuts the fabric, and prepares the suit for the client who will come back for a fitting. It typically takes between 6 and 8 weeks from phone conversation to the finished suit being ready to wear. â–ś
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Pinstripe Double Breasted Pattern Cutting
Fabric and Jacket
September 2020
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Brown Tassle Loafers
www.modernluxuria.com
“We’re not going for fast-fashion or today’s trends. This is an investment piece that you will have for 20 years. It’ll be fashionable and it will be timeless,” said Dissanayake. www.sumisurabespoke.ca
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Patina Chelsea Boots
Patina Tassle Loafers
September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
A Fashion Boutique with a California Girl V Two friends turn their love of fashion into a business WORDS BY KAREN MEURER PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
It’s the classic story. Friends from high school reconnect and forge a deep friendship again, and in the case of Courtney Antoniuk and Erin Mack, a business. On a vacation in California together, Antoniuk and Mack started talking about where they were in life and what they wanted to do next. The conversation turned to their love of fashion and Mack’s excellent online shopping skills and before the vacation was over they had a plan and a business name — PaperDoll Clothing. Both were done with the days of spending $400 on a pair of jeans — they wanted to source clothing lines for women who wanted to look put together but not break the bank. Mack reached out to clothing lines in Los Angeles and they came on board. PaperDoll now carries lines from California, New York, London UK, and Australia. Erin Mack and Courtney Antoniuk
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September 2020
Vibe - in Edmonton!
PaperDoll Clothing provides quality clothes that you can’t find everywhere — different, unique. Antoniuk and Mack love to work with clients to pull together outfits that look good and work for them. They want people to leave with items they chose and like. They stand by the thought of “If you don’t love it, don’t buy it.” Looking at fashion trends lately, they are seeing what is being called the “transition trend” because of the global pandemic. “People are not needing to dress up everyday but still want to look polished. Mix and match basics — something you can feel good in and wear anywhere — like a nice blazer, a pretty t-shirt, and jeans is the outfit of choice lately.” Skinny jeans and wide leg pants are both a staple to have this season and Mack is seeing a surge of plaid for the Fall. Both say tone on tone and incorporating leopard pieces into outfits always make for a classic and polished look. ▶
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www.modernluxuria.com
Laura dress by Olivaceous, Sue Dolman knit, Nicole bootie, and Ellie Vail crescent earring
Model Ruth Bancroft Hair and Makeup by Amber Prepchuk Photographed on Location at Numo Cannabis, Oliver Location, Infinity Forrest by Vignettes artist Leigh Wright.
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September 2020
Jana dress by Davi and Dani, Free People mixed print sandals
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www.modernluxuria.com
Neve dress, Bree slide sandal, Paperdoll knot headband, Ellie Vail pearl bracelet www.paperdoll.ca
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September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
Jayme Niaz
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September 2020
Easy Day to Evening Elegance Layering dainty jewellery for a sweet and simple style WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Coco Chanel referred to simplicity in
What’s the easiest way to go from work to
fashion as “the keynote of elegance.”
date night with minimalistic jewellery?
Online dictionary Merriam-Webster.
I suggest layering other dainty pieces,
com defines minimalism as “a style or
throw on some heels and a leather jacket
technique that is characterized by
to enhance your date night look.
extreme spareness and simplicity.” Tell us about HoneyBare Jewelry’s most HoneyBare Jewelry prides itself on creating
popular pieces?
custom and one of a kind pieces that are
The Craze Hoops and the Coin Moon and
sweet, simple and stylish. Founder Jayme
choker necklaces. The hoops are thicker,
Niaz talked with us about the timeless
giving an edgier look that can easily be
genre of fashion and how her jewellery fits
paired with necklaces. The Coin Moon and
in. “The style is here to stay. It’s a discreet,
choker necklaces have a dainty design
everyday style,” she explained.
which makes them easy to layer. They are simple yet stylish pieces that will last.
How easily does minimalistic jewellery transition from day to evening?
HoneyBare Jewelry pieces are gold-plated
Very easily! Its dainty, barely-there style
or gold-filled and are handmade by Niaz
gives you more of a polished, sleek look
herself. She and her husband have a new
that can easily be transitioned from day to
baby boy and a Corgipoo too. HoneyBare
night. It is effortless and versatile taking the
Jewelry is based in Edmonton.
guesswork out of accessorizing an outfit.
www.honeybarejewelry.com ▶
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www.modernluxuria.com
PHOTOS SUPPLIED
Parker Pearl Earrings Materials: Pearl Pendant, Brass, Acrylic, Polished Gold-Plated
Chunky Link Chain Chain Length: 15� (adjustable to shorter length) Closure: Pave Padlock Clasp Materials: Polished Gold-Plated
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September 2020
Sun Necklace Chain Length: 20” Closure: Lobster Clasp Materials: Polished Gold Plated Over Brass Vintage Choker Chain Length: 15” (adjustable) Closure: Lobster Clasp Materials: Polished Gold Plated Over Brass Rose Quartz Vintage Necklace Chain Length: 20” Closure: Lobster Clasp Materials: Polished Gold Plated Over Brass with Rose Quartz Gemstone
Adjustable Coin Necklaces Chain Length: 18” (adjusts to 17” length) Closure: Lobster Clasp Materials: Rose Gold Filled & Gold Filled; Coin Pendant Sourced From Turkey
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www.modernluxuria.com
Face Masks: An Unexpected Fashion Accessory Local fashion designers talk about the latest “trend� WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN
The bylaw making the wearing of face masks mandatory in all indoor public spaces in the City of Edmonton seems to have created an entirely new fashion accessory. Almost like a pair of shiny red-soled black stilettos or a wool fedora and scarf combo, face masks are quickly becoming something we equate with style and fashion.
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September 2020
Founder of Luxx Ready to Wear, Derek Jagodzinsky, has discovered that a lot of people want fashionable face masks. “It’s nice to have something flashy and fun to show people’s personalities and style,” Jagodzinsky pointed out. Luxx Ready to Wear uses different prints and materials, from cotton to silk. “Choosing a face mask can be like saying who you are without speaking,” said Jagodzinsky. www.luxreadytowear.com - 31 -
www.modernluxuria.com
Ali Schick from SUKA agrees and adds that face masks are a label, “Gucci and Louis Vuitton are using their prints, patterns, and labels. A mask is a label on your face. It’s the one thing we look at first on a person, usually it’s their face.” She says face masks are the new t-shirt and that masks should look sleek and fit your face well. www.sukaclothing.co - 32 -
September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
Fashion designer and founder of Nor, Sherri Cardona focuses on style, functionality and sustainability when designing face masks. “I wanted to offer something that provides safety, reduces waste, and, of course, is fashionable,� she said. Nor masks are built with three layers of fabric, adjustable straps, and an inner wire which can be used to fit the mask to the bridge of the nose. www.norofficial.com - 34 -
PHOTOS SUPPLIED
September 2020
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A Father’s Flight Path Paves the Way The story of a son who took a familial passion for aviation to new heights WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
When Michael Stimac was a small boy his father became a pilot. Little did either one know the impact this would have on Stimac’s entire life. Stimac — now grown with a family of his own, is a pilot, an aircraft owner, a charter flight broker, and the developer of an air travel ride-sharing app. The app is called JETPASS and it links luxury-loving travelers with private jet owners who have available seats on scheduled flights. Travelers who subscribe to JETPASS are able to reserve two seats on an unlimited number of empty-leg flights for the cost of a single annual membership. ▶
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September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
An article in The Economist says the
“The thing I love about flying is that you’re
airline industry will lose 50% of its $1.3trn
totally present. There is nothing else that
forecasted revenue in 2020 due to pan-
you’re thinking about, not work, no prob-
demic travel restrictions and passenger
lems, you’re just totally present. It’s a form
fear of COVID-19 infection. Stimac says
of therapy,” he said.
chartered flights via Attune Aviation have seen more interest since the pan-
Stimac’s love of aviation started at five
demic began and he expects interest to
years-old, the same year his father earned
continue to increase. He explained that
his pilot’s license. Stimac recalls how he
charter passengers feel safer flying pri-
used to sneak into his father’s office to
vate because they are not exposed to the
devour the aviation library when one
crowds and line ups at public airports.
day his dad caught him and tested his
Attune Aviation partners with companies
knowledge with questions on planes and
like Lonach Global Charter to offer luxury
the theory of flying. The younger Stimac
flights for corporate travelers and for
answered the questions with ease, “I think
vacation seekers.
he was impressed because he came back with a whole schwack of books for me to
Stimac’s personal aircraft is a Warrior II,
study,” Stimac laughed. He started his pi-
part of the Cherokee family of two and
lot training as a teenager but Stimac took
four-seat light aircraft designed for flight
some years off to attend University and to
training and personal use by Piper Air-
build other areas of his life. It wasn’t until
craft. A piston-powered single engine
he was 40 years-old that he finished his
light plane and it’s owner shopped all
training to earn his license — the same
over Canada and the US until finally, he
age his father was when he became a
found it. “I wanted to buy an airplane
pilot. “It would be a dream to take my dad
my whole life.”
flying. Unfortunately he had a stroke 10 years ago, a pretty debilitating one, so
Stimac’s passion is evident in the way he
I wouldn’t be able to take him up. I’m sure
talks about his business, his wife and two
he would have loved it,” Stimac said with
daughters, his airplane and flying.
a nostalgic smile. www.attuneaviation.ca
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September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
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September 2020
Digesting Our All Too Human Dilemma Translating personal experience into the surreal and bizarre, Hanny Khoury confronts our human condition WORDS BY JOE GURBA PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Hanny Khoury is a Palestinian born,
and fraught history. He was born in
Edmonton based outsider artist whose
1990 in Eilabun, one of the hundreds
work has recently caught the attention
of Palestinian villages that were for-
of the artistic community in the Levant.
cibly displaced when the modern
After years of self-training, tutelage under
nation-state of Israel was formed.
admired realists, and even two years
But Eilabun was unique among its
spent homeless in Jerusalem, Khoury
neighbours for its distinctly Christian
struck on his own surrealist style. Good
character, so the Pope issued a deci-
fortune found him in 2018 when his work
sion to the British colonizers to allow
was picked up by George Al-Alem and
the people of Eilabun to return home
shown to Banksy. Impressed, Khoury was
under the new Israeli rule. They were
selected in 2019 for a private exhibition
the privileged few to do so. Growing
in Banksy’s new project, The Walled Off
up in this maelstrom of power politics,
Hotel, which opened right next to the
shifting fates, and religious contests,
border wall in Bethlehem in 2017. The
Khoury’s vision gradually took shape
success of Khoury’s solo exhibit led to
and manifested in his expressive paint-
overnight acclaim and was extended an
ings. These experiences combined with
extra month as collectors from across the
the cosmic questions that hang heavy
middle east came to purchase his work.
in the air of the Holy Land to imbue his
Khoury’s rare identity embodies a long
works with ponderous provocations. ▶
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www.modernluxuria.com
But Khoury is the first to caution that his
In the other mode, Khoury slows his brush
identity per se is not the subject of his
and becomes the tragedian. In paintings
painting. Rather, his subject is the un-
like in presence of nothingness, Based on,
derlying human condition that instigates
and the fall of the gods, Khoury’s abstract-
the fraught history his story embodies.
ed bodies take on a highly sculptured
Khoury argues that at some point your
form. The colours become more subdued
identity as an artist no longer matters.
and nuanced by the effects of light and
You start making art based on your expe-
dark. The compositions become theatri-
rience as an indivisible self rather than as
cally staged. In this mode, Khoury’s time
a series of categories. “You realize human-
spent studying the Spanish surrealists of
ity is not about where you came from or
the 20s and 30s can be seen most clearly.
who you are, Palestinian, Israeli, Canadian,
In these tableaux, we see the spiritual and
whatever, you have to be portraying your
the corporeal melt together in the same
own experience through your own eyes,”
way a myth blurs raw reality with super-
Khoury contends, “and people from
natural fiction to negotiate the anguish
China or Israel or Palestine or Dubai
of unknowing.
can look at the art and understand the language you’re speaking with.”
As with all great surrealism, if you spend enough time with these paintings you
Khoury currently paints his surrealist
will begin to feel as though the stomach
dramas in two distinct modes. In paint-
of your soul is quietly digesting our most
ings like Holy abandonment, A depleted
human questions and dilemmas.
peace, and A non-Semitic vision, we see a looser brush set free with enormous
The satisfaction of Khoury’s work is in
energy and angst, deploying provocative,
both the body horror and the social horror
visceral colour schemes. These paintings’
his works confront, then subdue. We as
unsettling morbidity combine with their
viewers bear witness to this one man’s
titles to pose a thousand questions. As
vision of what lies hidden behind our
with all surrealism, the viewer must aban-
fragile bodies and minds. It reaches out
don the rational and intuit their response.
to us on the lowest common denomina-
These works are reminiscent not only of
tor of our shared humanity. Our frightful
Basquiat but of what John Berger wrote
fragility is brought into focus, held fixed in
of Basquiat: “He sensed that hidden
time, and we can find our footing in the
truths cannot be described in any of the
face of discomfort. This is the work of art
languages commonly employed for the
when it is working well.
promotion of lies.”
www.hannykhoury.com
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September 2020
Detail: A Depleted Peace Oil on Canvas 147 X 148 cm 2019
Detail: A Non-Semitic Vision Oil on Canvas 155 X 140 cm 2019
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www.modernluxuria.com
PHOTOS OF ARTWORKS SUPPLIED
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September 2020
In Presence of Nothingness Oil on Canvas 168 x 252 cm 2018
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www.modernluxuria.com
Meet my Friend Pablo Studio 54 and West Hollywood have cross-pollinated on Jasper Avenue On the wall at Pablo hangs a candid snap of Andy Warhol, Calvin Klein, Brook Shields, and Steve Rubell carousing at Studio 54, circa 1981. Combine that panache with a splash of West Hollywood neon and sub-tropical greenery and you start to catch the vibe this petit cocktail club exudes. Not even a year old and already this Edmonton hotspot has placed #19 in Canada’s Best Bars and joined the ten bars named “Best International High Volume Cocktail Bar” and “Best New International Cocktail Bar” in Tales of the Cocktail’s prestigious Spirited Awards for 2020. The story goes that Kevin Cam of North53 and Baijiu approached James Grant and Natasha Trowsdale in 2019 with a mind to opening a swanky late night spot focused strictly on drinks. Grant and Trowsdale turned around and delivered an energetic and lighthearted cocktail program set in a room that makes every guest feel like a minor celebrity. ▶
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September 2020
WORDS BY JOE GURBA PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
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www.modernluxuria.com
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September 2020
The peachy pearl sconces and green bankers’ lamps are lit low, the fluted banquettes are salmon pink, and the walls are adorned from head to toe with black-backed mirrors and icons of the 70s and 80s. The menu is unashamed of elevating drinks the earlier renaissance cocktail bars had to forbid to first re-elevate the craft of bartending. Having journeyed far enough, Grant and Trowsdale reasoned, it was about time Edmonton brought a little playfulness back to great bartending, without abandoning rediscovered techniques. At Pablo you can find ridiculously skilled renderings of derided drinks like the Pornstar, the Stinger, and the Rusty Nail. Being among the few quality oriented bar programs open until 2am, Pablo’s become a late night watering hole for well informed foodies (or for industry folk finishing shift!), but if you want to guarantee your seat, grab a drink here before 9:30 when the space quickly begins to fill. ▜
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www.modernluxuria.com
And if you’ve the stamina to go the distance, the last hour of every night is when Pablo really sparkles unlike any cocktail bar in Edmonton. Always beginning with In the Air Tonight and ending with Purple Rain, with a random assortment of karaoke hits in between, the whole bar breaks into a rousing sing along. ▜
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September 2020
James Grant
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Mr. Flamingo
www.modernluxuria.com
Pablo is a certified vibe, equal parts buttoned up and buttoned down. Check it out the moment they can re-open or take advantage of this rare moment in history to book a private event. Pablo Cocktail Lounge - Downstairs, 10432 Jasper Avenue. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
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Last Call ‘86 Malibu
Pretty Tony
September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
Canteen’s ever-evolving menu keeps us coming back Canteen could be sliding into institution status among Edmonton’s best restaurants WORDS BY JOE GURBA PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
When Frank and Andrea Olson of Red Ox Inn opened Canteen in 2012, they were among the first wave of upscale casual cuisine and elevated brunch programs in Edmonton. In 2010, the Olson’s travelled to Portland, San Francisco, and Vancouver where they witnessed a now familiar but then emerging approach to dining. In light of the financial crisis of 2008, fine dining was exchanging its stuffier table-clothed rooms for a dressed down dining room experience without sacrificing on the quality of food or service. After dining in restaurants like Olympic Provisions and Cafe Medina, they knew Edmonton needed an establishment of the same ilk — a place where you could enjoy dishes fashioned from the best ingredients by real chefs in an easy-going atmosphere, without paying for little extras like linens, coat checks, or pianists. ▶
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September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
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September 2020
Having purchased the Red Ox Inn in 1995 fully built and running, Canteen was the Olson’s opportunity to design their own room from scratch in their own 124th street neighborhood. Their vision resulted in a warm, modern, and minimal space, allowing the menu a freedom to be anything it wished. The same spirit still imbues their menu, unbound by any regional cuisine or particular school of techniques. Frank Olson and Dylan Prins’ inventive kitchen develops dishes with culinary inspiration ranging from Mexico to China, Argentina to France, Thailand, and the Mediterranean. The throughnote is their use of excellent ingredients and thoughtful execution. Anyone in the industry knows that restaurants age in dog years, and boasting eight years open at Canteen, combined with twenty-five years at Red Ox Inn, is a monumental achievement for any restaurateur. The key to Canteen’s ongoing success is consistency. Their veteran front of house and kitchen staff have stayed with the Olson’s for many years in an industry notorious for high turnover. Their food and drink menus are in constant flux yet the quality behind each dish abides. They’ve mastered a harmony between rustic and satisfying bistro dishes while amplifying the complexity of those flavours through advanced techniques. At risk of describing a dish that may well be replaced with a fresh invention by the time you visit, avid brunchers must try the shrimp toast benedict with thai hollandaise, and by night you need to try the scored duck breast served with green coconut curry and udon noodles. The arctic char with israeli couscous, fennel, braised cabbage, mango, green papaya, and moroccan glaze is another hit. Small and medium sized dishes abound on the dinner menu, perfect for the table that shares. Top that with a killer wine list (with no shortage of cocktails or beer options either) and you have a timeless recipe for longevity. ▶
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PHOTOS SUPPLIED
www.modernluxuria.com
Duck Breast with green coconut curry and udon noodles
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September 2020
Shrimp Toast Benedict with thai hollandaise
Arctic Char with israeli couscous, fennel, braised cabbage, mango, green papaya, and moroccan glaze www. canteenyeg.ca
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EXPERIENCE THE 2021 CADILLAC ESCALADE COMING SOON TO OUR SHOWROOM
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ASHLEY WOLFE President of the Wolfe Automotive Group MOTHER, HOCKEY COACH, COMMUNITY SUPPORTER, FITNESS ENTHUSIAST, TEAM LEADER, VISIONARY, ENTREPRENEUR, PILOT.
www.modernluxuria.com
Infill Homes Are The New “New Homes” One couple builds their dream home in the right location Driving around the city, you’ll notice new infill homes popping up everywhere. More people are seeing the benefits of being able to build a new home in an already established neighbourhood with amenities, schools, and activities nearby instead of living out in the suburbs. These often contemporary homes “draw curiosity from the crowd” as we wonder what they look like inside. We were lucky enough to be invited into one such home near the University of Alberta. ▶
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September 2020
WORDS BY KAREN MEURER PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
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www.modernluxuria.com
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September 2020
When moving back from the USA, the owners were used to living “the city life” and they wanted to recreate that here. The lot they found to build on was perfect in location and size. Originally there was a large older home sitting on a very large lot. That was sold and split into two still quite large lots, enough to build an infill home close to 3000 sq ft. As soon as you walk into this contemporary home you can feel its soul. From its design to the furnishings, the home looks cleany put together, yet still has that inviting “lived in” feel. With three levels of living space plus a rooftop patio, the family still gravitates towards gathering in the main floor open concept space. A front sitting room features a brick wall made from bricks of the owners’ Great Grandpa’s original home. Then in the mid section sits the owners’ dream kitchen with a 13 ft. quartz countertop and oversized gas cooktop and double oven - perfect for entertaining. A beautiful modern chandelier light hangs perfectly over the dinning table from the open 20 ft. vaulted ceiling and a wall full of beautiful art — which connects the whole space with functional light and that wow feeling. ▶
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www.modernluxuria.com
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September 2020
The home sits facing east/ west and is designed with large windows to let in lots of natural light. Off of the living room at the back is an accordion style window wall that can be opened to include the outside deck as more living space. It’s perfect for summer social distance visiting with family and friends — which is what the owners love to do.
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www.modernluxuria.com
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September 2020
More Homes in Edmonton are Getting Makeovers COVID-19 is keeping people close to home and now home improvement companies are seeing a lift in business WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
It seems that with more people
We needed to move forward and
spending more time in their
follow our dreams,” said Paula.
homes they’re also spending more money on their homes.
Iron River Surfaces specializes in
Furniture companies are reporting
cupboards and cabinetry, flooring,
higher sales in 2020 and home
countertops, wallpaper, and
improvement companies are
everything surface-related from
saying the same. Iron River Surfaces
design to install. “We focus on
has had what they’re calling a “very
renovations and custom builds.
steady year” so far in 2020.
It’s about the service, the design, and the quality of the product and
Owners Sheldon and Paula Small
installation,” explained Sheldon.
are married and have four children between them. The couple decided
Neither the year 2020 nor the
a couple of years ago to leave their
global pandemic are over which
careers and join forces to open
means more people will be staying
their own home improvement
close to home and investing in their
and renovation company. The
own comfort and sense of well-
Smalls say that the passing of
being and luxury, “Our clientele
Sheldon’s father nearly two years
that has the means to travel, who
ago was a big wake-up call. The pair
are not traveling right now, are
talked about how working in their
noticing a lot of changes and
separate fields and raising kids
updates that they need in their
left far too little time for them to
homes, well they are now acting
spend together and that needed to
on those updates now and we’re
change, “life is too short.
ready to help,” said Sheldon. ▶
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www.modernluxuria.com
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Clean and contemporary. This style is a salute to the 80s and is gaining in popularity. White oak hardwood layered with pops of the trending colours of pale green and matte coral. It’s a look that is associated with clean contemporary spaces, the ever popular Scandinavian style, and the still sought after modern farmhouse aesthetic.
1. Kentwood Originals Brushed Oak Snohomish 2. Vetrazzo Palladian Gray 3. Vetrazzo Emerald Coast 4. Dekton Slim 4mm Aura 15 5. Cabico Cabinetry in Chantilly 6. Ann Sacks Kelly Wearstler Maven Solstice Whiteline 7. Solid Ash Fluted Panels 8. Ann Sacks Terrazzo Renata White 9. Ann Sacks Terrazzo Renata Brulee 10. Cambria Delgatie 11. White Oak Fluted Panels 12. Superior Cabinets Oyster Bay 13. Ceragres 41Zero Biscuit Terra Peak 2”x8” 14. Medley Classic Green 15. Medley Pop Green 16. Daltile Mini Hex Mosaic 17. Ceragres 41Zero Biscuit Salvia Dune 2”x8” 18. Ceragres 41Zero Biscuit Salvia Strip 2”x8”
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September 2020
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Luxurious and sophisticated. This tailored palette echoes the trend to incorporate matte black in kitchens, cabinetry and countertops. Fluted walnut panels, interesting shapes, and subtle veining bring in texture and add interest to this overall design concept.
1. Abode Natural Crafted Acacia 2. Dekton Slim 4mm Kelya 3. Tierra Sol Velvet Glass Series 4. Solid American Walnut FlutedPanel 5. Dekton Entzo 6. Grafton Metal Pull Aged Brass 7. Grafton Knob Aged Brass 8. Dekton Khalo XGloss 9. EcoDomo Andeline Collection Leather Flooring 10. Laminam Porcelain I Naturali 11. Walnut Triangular Cladding
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www.modernluxuria.com
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8 2
High impact and minimalistic. The drama created by this black and white pairing is versatile and classic. Shown here against a backdrop of highly textured and richly-hued herringbone hardwood, this monochromatic combination is a stand out choice.
1. Walnut Herringbone Hardwood 2. Silestone Eternal Marquina in Suede 3. AnnSacks Liason by Kelly Wearstler, Clemente 4. Geon Tile Icicle 5. Ann Sacks Maven Zuma 6. Cambria Vail Village 7. Cabico Cabinetry Nova Matte Obsidia 8. Geon Tile Big Cirque 9. Sacks Terrazzo Renata in Honed Black www.ironriversurfaces.com
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www.modernluxuria.com
Slip Into Eight Hours of Luxury per Night Organic cotton sheets provide a luxuriously healthy night’s sleep WORDS BY KAREN MEURER
After a health scare, HauteCoton founder Nimi
as they hand stitched coconut buttons onto
Kelloway started to take stalk of what she was
duvets covers. She is particular about keeping
putting in her body and on it. She changed her
the thread count of the silky sateen sheets to
eating habits to be more clean and then while
no more than 300. “People think that a higher
sitting in a nutrition class about organic farming
thread count means more luxurious sheets, but
vs. conventional farming, Kelloway made the
that’s wrong,” Kellowy says. “A higher thread
connection between food and natural textiles.
count means they have added unhealthy
The textile industry can be very toxic and she
synthetic micro fibres in between the cotton
learned that only 1% of the world's cotton is
fibres to make it feel more dense.”
grown using organic methods. That made her question where her clothes and sheets were
HauteCoton organic bedding is luxuriously
coming from and how they were made.
soft, which makes for a more healthy, restful, comfortable sleep. The natural breathable fibres
That is when Kelloway had her “Ah Ha!’ moment
allow you to stay cool in the summer and warm
and HauteCoton was born. She was determined
in the winter. The sheets come in Classic White
to provide a healthy alternative to conventional
and Au Naturale. The natural colour is made
cotton bedding. “After all, we spend eight hours
from un-dyed organic cotton, with no chemicals
a night in bed. Why would I want to sleep in the
or toxins used in the process. Along with sheets,
chemicals found in synthetic sheets — right?”
pillow covers, and duvet covers HauteCoton also carries pillows filled with natural wool covered
Kelloway travelled to India to research cotton
with their signature organic cotton.
farming and found an organic supplier with sustainable farming practices and fair working
When asked, “what does luxuria mean to you?”
conditions. She saw exactly how HauteCoton
Kelloway said “a good night’s sleep.”
bedding is made and talked with the sewists
www.hautecoton.com
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PHOTOS SUPPLIED
September 2020
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Emtek Modern Entry Sets
www.modernluxuria.com
Exquisite Finishing Touches in Home Design Attention to small details like door handles will elevate the look of a home WORDS BY KAREN MEURER
When building or renovating a home often, we
Door hardware is more than just opening, closing,
often focus on the more obvious decisions like two
and securing a space - it is an integral part of home
storey, bungalow, how many rooms, and what kind of
design. There is no set rule about using knobs,
kitchen cabinets etc. But small details like choosing
levers, rosettes, and finishes in any design — people
to go with door knobs or door levers are a significant
can make a statement with their choice of hardware.
part of the big picture of the project. One company,
Trends for finishing looks in the hardware industry
Hardware & Co., is all about design meets function
lately are choices like satin brass and shiny metal
and helps people to stamp their personality on their
finishes. A new popular choice is a graphite finish
homes .Hardware Co. carries residential and com-
that has an in between a stainless steel and matte
mercial hardware in many styles from traditional to
black look. Beautiful looking door hardware is the
modern design. Quality exterior, interior doors, and
piece of the puzzle that ties everything together in
cabinet hardware as well as accessories including
a home for memorable first and lasting impressions.
house numbers, and mailboxes all come from suppli-
Hardware Co. selections are showcased at
ers sourced in Italy, Germany, and North America.
www.rsvpdesign.ca
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INC & ARC by Formani
Emtek L-Square White Marble Lever
Emtek Barn Door Privacy Locks
September 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
Why Luxury-Lovers L
Union Bank Inn in downtown Edmonton fits w
WORDS BY ERI
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September 2020
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Love Boutique Hotels
with what luxury-travelers have been seeking
IN SLOBODIAN
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www.modernluxuria.com
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September 2020
Boutique hotels have been gaining in popularity with luxury-travelers over the past few years. Hospitalitynet.org says many people are looking for a higher level of comfort in the hotels they spend such a large portion of their days and nights at, while on vacation. During a time in history when travel is difficult and in some cases restricted, those same travelers can find a similar and far less restricted getaway option: check-in to a luxury boutique hotel in their own backyards.
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www.modernluxuria.com
What makes a boutique hotel stay special? Location Boutique hotels are typically located in the heart of a community and have lots to offer in terms of nearby restaurants, bars, theatres, and nightlife. They offer proximity to the authentic culture of a community. Luxurious Amenities Boutique hotels usually have incredible food served from in-hotel restaurants that are headed by respected and talented Chefs, beautiful architecture, and distinctive decor and furnishings. Warm and Personal Service Boutique hotels have fewer rooms than most chain-hotels, usually between 10-100 doors. This means the hotel staff is more familiar with your personal preferences.
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September 2020
Union Bank Inn is a small but stately 4-Star luxury hotel in downtown Edmonton. It is situated on Jasper Avenue and 100th street and is surrounded by many local restaurants and bars. Union Bank Inn’s unique Modern Renaissance Architecture is riddled with history and stories for those who wish to hear. Plus there is a fireplace in every room. A la carte breakfast and Wine and Cheese is included with your stay. The Madisons Grill Signature 6 Course Wine and Dine is an exciting and unique experience every time you try it and it is served in the beautifully remodelled historic former Union Bank. “Union Bank Inn has a small team of professionals who strive to give guests a sincere, personalized and warm stay,” said one of its owner’s, Shelley Davis, in a phone conversation with Modern Luxuria. www.unionbankinn.com
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50/50
R AFFLE The Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts is a supportive studio where artists with developmental and other disabilities create and share their work. All funds raised help offer a safe and socially distanced studio environment for the artists to come and create. Thank you for helping us change lives through art!
Ticket Sales End: September 24, 2020 Draw Date: September 30, 2020
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! 1 FOR $10 4 FOR $25 20 FOR $50 100 FOR $100
bit.ly/nina5050
