Impact Wealth Winter 2023 Issue

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Nest Seekers is a global real estate brokerage at the nexus of technology and media. Founded in 2002 by industry visionary and current president and CEO, Eddie Shapiro, Nest Seekers evolved at the forefront of the digital media revolution, reaching a new generation of clients, and gaining international exposure through groundbreaking media partnerships which helped revolutionize the industry and fuel Nest Seekers' rapid growth.

Today, Nest Seekers has more than 33 offices and 1,500 agents in New York, London, The Hamptons, New Jersey, Long Island, Miami, Palm Beach, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Greenwich, Colorado, Portugal, Milan, France, Mallorca, Madrid, Mexico, Southeast Asia and Seoul.

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Celebrating 60 Years of Thrilling High Performance McLaren's Remarkable Journey By Angela Gorman 70 The Bridge Where Automotive Legends Converge in Style By Angela Gorman

72

74

The Caribbean Surges Ahead on EV Infrastructure Overhaul By Janelle Brown

Global Leaders, Celebrities & Billionaires Swarm the Hamptons for The Ultimate Mogul Fest at The Uber Exclusive 1640 Society Family Office Wealth Forum By Hillary Latos

76 Ciara Shines at the Hamptons 1640 Society and Impact Wealth Magazine Night Before Cocktail PartyAn Exclusive Inside Look By Hillary Latos 78 Technology and Geopolitics A Newport Conversation on Unity, Division, and the Future of Innovation By Hillary Latos

Eight

FROM TOWNHOUSES TO PENTHOUSES, HEADQUARTERS TO GREAT ESTATES

22’

Completely

163 East 64th Street

20’ x 100’ lot | 8,000 gross sq. ft. 5 floors + Basement

Five finished levels including; an elevator, a home gym, a 300 bottle wine cellar, an eat-in kitchen, 8 working fireplaces, double pane windows, custom wood floors, multiple surround sound systems, snow and ice melting systems, a

50’ x 45’ lot | 12,500 gross sq. ft. 5 floors + Basement

Renovated multi-unit property with proposed plans to convert to an ultra-sophisticated residence in the heart of Downtown Manhattan. Alternatively, great investment “as is” with 16free market units and two stores. $42M

EDITOR’S NOTE Art Basel & Palm Beach Holiday Issue

As 2023 swiftly transitions into its final chapters, our latest issue covers the world of art, philanthropy, and luxury escapes. Embracing the festive spirit of winter getaways and the vibrant energy of Art Basel Miami, we cover some of the world’s greatest artists and entrepreneurs who are making a difference in the world.

In this edition, we proudly showcase Jeff Koons, a figure synonymous with contemporary art's audacity and allure. Koons' collaboration with Bernardaud stands as a testament to his ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary, marrying mass appeal with exclusive collectability. His work, often polarizing yet undeniably influential, captures the essence of our era's cultural and aesthetic dialogues.

Further enriching our artistic discourse, we present an engaging feature on Tracey Emin. Laur Weeks captured her engaging

conversation with Susan May, White Cube’s Global Artistic Director, which offered a deep dive into Emin's latest exhibition, "Lovers Grave." This exchange not only highlighted Emin's creative evolution but her emotional history and journey of healing, love, and coming to terms with oneself through contemporary painting.

Complementing these modern titans, we pay homage to the legacies of Pierre Soulages and Mark di Suvero. Michael Klein explored the impact Soulages has made with his body of work and his profound affinity with black paint and di Suvero's abstract expressionist sculptures.

Shifting the spotlight to Palm Beach, we feature the multifaceted journey of Kimberly Guilfoyle. From news anchor to political fundraiser and entrepreneur, Guilfoyle's story is one of transformation, underpinned by a steadfast dedication to patriotism.

Her feature is not only a portrait of an individual but a reflection of Palm Beach's historical grandeur and exclusivity, brilliantly captured by photographer Madison Buff.

Representing a new generation of Palm Beach's elite, Madison Buff's dual talents as a photographer and energy healer, combined with her titles of Mrs. Palm Beach and Mrs. Florida, encapsulate the region's evolving identity – one that blends tradition with contemporary flair.

At Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024, fashion designers have masterfully blurred the distinctions between fashion and fine art on the runway. The collections presented transcended mere clothing; they were akin to moving canvases, transforming the catwalk into a dynamic, live gallery. This vivid display showcased not only creativity but also individuality and a sense of playfulness, redefining the essence of fashion as a form of artistic expression. As the holiday season approaches, our thoughts naturally turn to travel. Amy Louise Bailey offers an insider’s guide to St. Barth's, providing a curated glimpse into the chic and serene offerings of this elite destination.

This issue is a journey through art, philanthropy, highlighting different entrepreneurs, artists, and visionaries who had a steadfast determination to follow their passions to become who they are. Join us as we celebrate the end of another year and the endless possibilities of living a life of impact.

Hillary Latos EDITOR IN CHIEF

Candice Beaumont MANAGING EDITOR

Emil Pavlov ART DIRECTOR

Fredo Montes FASHION DIRECTOR

Charles Barnes, Madison Buff, Daniel Perry CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amy Louise Bailey, Janelle Brown, Michael Klein, Amy Poliakoff, Laur Weeks CONTRIBUTORS

Angela Gorman, Adam Weiss PUBLISHERS

Colin Thompson DIRECTOR OF SPONSORSHIP

Scott Pauker DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING

In loving Memory of our Associate Publisher, Martin Weiss

Impact Wealth Media LLC

222 Broadway, 18th Floor, New York, NY 212 542 3146

www.impactwealth.org info@impactwealth.org

A JOURNEY STARTING FROM THE HOME OF TEQUILA

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Photos by Madison Buff
Shot on location at Mar a Lago
Gowns by @realoscarlopez
Jewelry by @cameronpatrickneth
Lashes by Briana del Rosario for HB Beauty Lounge
Hair by Gianna Popolizio at Admiral Cove Salon and Patricia Alfaya at the Mar a Lago Club

KIMBERLY GUILFOYLE

A Warrior for Impactful Wisdom through Investing in the American People

At a time when putting your money where your mouth is and creating an impact based on where you invest, Kimberly Guilfoyle is at the forefront of being an advocate for the American people. Most recently, Kimberly helped with the IPO of the company PublicSquare on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange this past year, which was a major coup for the company that is focused on supporting American goods and businesses. This is a particularly important as we approach the upcoming holiday season as numerous companies have outsourced to our primary adversary, China. Kimberly has her finger on the pulse of what it means to be an impactful investor and an entrepreneur determined to make a difference while highlighting her personal history and values.

“Right now, more than ever, I am focused on supporting and investing in valuesaligned businesses. As Americans, we should NOT have to choose between what we buy and what we believe. I want to shop my values. Therefore, I invested in PublicSquare, America’s marketplace for freedom-loving businesses,” said Guilfoyle.

PublicSquare is a digital marketplace connecting over a million and a half consumers to around 70,000 businesses across America through trust-based transactions where there is a purpose to one’s purchase. It has a goal of being the next big shopping destination that requires users to be committed to ideals like freedom and family. For Guilfoyle, her career and investing decisions have always reflected her belief in the Constitution, respect FOR pro-American values, and support of American businesses.

“The conservative traditional principles in which I believe are hard work and equality of

opportunity. The result is up to you. Regardless of labels, I am an individual who values justice, loyalty and honesty. Helping those that do not have a voice is true justice,” said Guilfoyle.

Kimberly Guilfoyle was instrumental in the introduction of PublicSquare to Omeed Malik, CEO of the Special Acquisition Corporation (SPAC), Colombier Acquisition Corporation, that helped take PublicSquare public. From the beginning of the SPAC process, Kimberly was instrumental in connecting and building the relationships. The formal merger agreement for the companies was created on February 27, 2023 and was groundbreaking because unlike most SPAC agreements, this merger was clean with no debt, no forward purchase agreements, and a clean balance sheet. In addition, most SPAC’s don’t survive the two year lifespan they have to take their target company public. This process of taking PublicSquare public was a unique success, and Kimberly was right there at the NYSE with many American patriots chanting “USA” in

support of PublicSquare’s understanding that “we the people” should prioritize meritocracy and small businesses, often overlooked in this country. Today, Kimberly is not only a shareholder of PublicSquare, but will continue to not only succeed in business, but be a voice for the small business community around America through PublicSquare’s town halls represented on their platform.

“American consumers are ready, and demand to support American businesses. The grassroots movement that has been created through the desire of we the people has been the main driver of success. Kimberly plays into that not only because she has been a great advisor internally at our management level, but she has externally been a great voice for getting we the people excited about the platform we have created,” said Michael Seifert CEO of PublicSquare.

Guilfoyle’s fight for a better tomorrow started in California. She lost her mother

at the age of 10 years old. It was her father who inspired her to pursue a legal career. It was her legal career that gave Guilfoyle the knowledge and foundation that would forge her entrepreneurial spirit.

“From an early age, my father inspired and taught me to always stand up for myself, my values and my country. I still remember my father saying: “Be more afraid of the fear that hinders you than the fear of asking, always be your best advocate.” Therefore, I went to law school, to become the best advocate for myself and others,” said Guilfoyle.

Starting her career as a prosecuting attorney in Los Angeles and San Francisco, she was the assistant District Attorney in San Francisco from 2000 to 2004 and held the role of Deputy Assistant District Attorney in

Los Angeles. As a famed attorney handling cases that received international acclaim like People vs. Noel and Knoller, a case about a dog mauling resulting in death, Kimberly consistently fights for legal justice.

As an entrepreneur, Kimberly has published a book called Making The Case: How To Be Your Own Best Advocate. Her book gives first-hand accounts of how to be an advocate for your beliefs and discusses her legal experiences. A personal reflection of her time in the legal system, Guilfoyle shares what it means to invest her efforts and time in the right pathways.

Having taught students as a special education teacher, Kimberly developed a wisdom and compassion that became the foundation for her continued fight for equal treatment

for all. In addition, to being a legal advocate for the underdog, Kimberly spent years on television where she used her voice to be an activist for fairness while connecting directly with the American public. Guilfoyle began in television as a legal analyst on Anderson Cooper 360 and a television personality on Court TV. It was her co-hosting role on Fox's The Five where Kimberly used the platform to continue her passion for ethics and fair values by expressing her opinion and informing American citizens to be an advocate for themselves and their beliefs.

“I have always believed in the happy warrior mentality and have carried that with me wherever I go,” she says.

Being an advocate for important issues and beliefs in today's polarized world is something Kimberly understands. With her new show, “The Kimberly Guilfoyle Show” airing Mondays and Thursdays at 4 pm EST on Rumble, Kimberly utilizes the power of projecting freedom of opinion without censorship on a brand-new platform. Her show tackles the political climate, American democracy, legal questions and contemporary issues of the time and is the fastest growing show on the new platform.

“I am thrilled to have a home on Rumble, which is now at the center of this new media era. We can finally cut through the noise from the mainstream media and speak directly to the American people, unfiltered about issues that matter to them.”

A warrior for change and a better future, Kimberly’s perspective and her weekly show is an authentic expression and the future of the media business. Guilfoyle understands the new direction for the media industry much like her ability to see the vision for the future of shopping with the advent of Public Square’s new digital shopping marketplace.

Understanding investing, whether it is in companies or media platforms that change the future of connectivity, Guilfoyle has always known how to be impactful with her time. Serving as National Chair for the Trump Victory Finance Committee, she raised hundreds of millions of dollars and helped guide crucial financial resources in support of the Trump campaign’s pro American ideals.

From an early age, my father inspired and taught me to always stand up for myself, my values and my country. I still remember my father saying: “Be more afraid of the fear that hinders you than the fear of asking, always be your best advocate.

Kimberly is a force of nature. She recently spoke in support of President Trump at a rally in South Florida and noticed the energy for change in this political environment is stronger now, MORE than it has ever been. She CONTINUES TO RAISE HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS for President Trump, showing true vigor through national campaigning and speeches.

A proven entrepreneur, Kimberly is now expanding her powerful and patriotic brand into the lifestyle space, through her new partnership with Elizabeth Beri in American Dream Corporation. American Dream Corporation will develop and launch an upscale vodka and champagne brand targeting a core demographic of America First supporters. Representing the ideals of Liberty and Freedom, the first American owned champagne brand, champagne will be released in 2024. Ronan Saint Libre is a testament to Kimberly’s commitment to female empowerment AND to the American principles of free enterprise and capitalism. Kimberly and her partner Elizabeth are proud to bring this minority female owned brand directly to the consumer. Their luxury vodka brand, Elegance, is distilled in Florida, and will also be released early 2024 with a primary focus of reaching consumers directly who understand the American principles of independence and small business success.

I am thrilled to have a home on Rumble, which is now at the center of this new media era. We can finally cut through the noise from the mainstream media and speak directly to the American people, unfiltered about issues that matter to them.

“My guiding principles of liberty and strong values have guided all my decisions in life. As a prosecutor in California, I was stalwart in my commitment to carry out justice for those with no voice. one of my greatest moments was when I fought and helped make animal abuse a felony,” said Guilfoyle.

Kimberly is also a philanthropist at heart and her passion for helping animals is noted in her commitment to the animal charity, Furry Friends, originally founded as the Humane Society of Greater Jupiter/Tequesta, Florida. She singlehandedly helped raise one million dollars for the charity through events held in South Florida. Kimberly came to the shelter on Mother’s Day 2023 and acquired Chela Guilfoyle-Trump in honor of her mother who passed away when Kimberly was just ten years of age. Kimberly’s heart knows no bounds as she extended herself to become a brand Ambassador for Furry Friends as well as a board member.

Through her impactful wisdom Kimberly Guilfoyle has used her passions to fuel her pathway toward becoming a successful entrepreneur. She is currently driving forward with a new children’s book to be released which will honor not only her and her mother’s commitment to special needs children’s education, but also to the principle

of teaching children to believe in and be an advocate for themselves. The book will feature a warrior princess and pay tribute to Guilfoyle’s desire for helping rescue animals.

“One of the greatest feelings is to give especially to those who have lost or suffered. Losing my mother at such a young age shattered my heart. I empathize with pain and channeled victims’ pain when I prosecuted domestic violence, sexual abuse and child abuse cases, and homicides. Real happiness is helping victims of any type of injustice,” said Guilfoyle.

Her clear commitment to business endeavors and the impact of investing in oneself is understanding the American ideal of family first. Her new perfume, soon to be released,

will honor her Puerto Rican heritage and her mother who passed away from Leukemia. The new scent will Incorporate hints of the Flor de Maga red hibiscus flower known for its homage to the bravery of the Puerto Rican people in the defense of their land.

Guilfoyle is dedicated to doing everything she can to be an advocate for the America First movement. Whether investing in new platforms of connectivity, businesses, or oneself; being an entrepreneur or a legal advocate for justice, Kimberly Guilfoyle has always fought as a warrior and an advocate for change. A true soldier, she has continued to fight for social justice and with endless empathy she will continue to fight for her passions, the American people and make an impact for investing in a better tomorrow.

FAMILY OFFICE ASSOCIATION

A Beacon of Innovation and Community for

Family Offices

Family Office Association (FOA), under the leadership of Chairman, Mike Packman, and Co-Presidents, Jennifer Katrulya and Rush Olney, is redefining the landscape of family office engagement through its innovative approach and commitment to supporting multigenerational family offices and wealth accumulators. At the heart of this transformation is FOA's updated mission: "Unite, Thrive, Give: Preserve Legacies While Empowering Tomorrow to Better the World." This mission encapsulates a deep-rooted desire to build a community that not only supports but elevates each of its members, and the world.

Bridging Leadership and Collaboration

FOA's approach to business and thought leadership is unparalleled. With an impressive network that includes some of the most respected multigenerational family offices, entrepreneurs, entertainers, athletes, and business leaders in the world, FOA is a hub for innovation and growth. Events like the FOA Family Office Retreat in Scottsdale and the FOA Spring and Fall Summits are not just gatherings; they are incubators for ideas and collaborations. These events feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, and presentations from national and global thought leaders, offering members exclusive insights into top industries and global trends.

Cultivating a 'Family-Style' Culture

At the core of FOA's ethos is a commitment to cultivating a 'family-style' culture. This aspect focuses on building genuine connections and meaningful friendships within the community, with the goals of creating a strong support system, deeper discussions and opportunities for collaboration, and a space where emerging family office leaders and wealth accumulators have opportunities to interact with and learn from a broad range of exceptional mentors. By hosting small group events in cities like New York City, Greenwich, and Miami, FOA creates intimate settings where relationships can flourish. These events, often reaching full capacity and

with wait lists, are testament to their success and importance within the FOA community.

Expanding Horizons with Diverse Events

FOA's event lineup for 2024 exemplifies its commitment to catering to the varied interests of family offices. From golf tournaments and Pickleball competitions to exclusive gatherings at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, FOA provides an array of experiences that cater to the lifestyle preferences of its members. The 'Trips of a Lifetime' initiative takes this a step further, offering families unique travel experiences ranging from African safaris to diving in the Galapagos.

Forming Connections through FOA Peer Communities

In a strategic move to deepen connections and address the diverse needs of its members, FOA introduced the FOA Peer Communities. These communities serve as specialized forums where family office professionals with shared interests and challenges can come together, exchange insights, and build meaningful relationships. The initial communities include Global Impact, Alternative Investments, Entertainers & Athletes, Global Family Office Exchange, Real Estate, NextGen, EB-5 Families, and Lifestyle and Wellness, these Peer Communities provide a platform for targeted

discussions and collaboration. By fostering smaller, more intimate settings, FOA aims to enhance networking opportunities and create a supportive environment where members can learn from one another's experiences and expertise.

Global Impact

Reflecting a global shift towards sustainable and ethical investment, FOA has placed providing information and updates about impact investing, at the forefront of its mission. This is embodied in the formation of the FOA Global Impact Community, a group dedicated to exploring initiatives that positively impact the world. With a 25-person Founding Leadership Council, and strong interest from current and incoming FOA, the community is a blend of family office leaders, academic representatives, and corporate and non-profit leaders, all united in the goal of making a positive global impact.

Fostering Wellness and Lifestyle Enrichment

FOA recognizes the importance of wellness and lifestyle in the lives of its members. By integrating these elements into its programming, FOA promotes a holistic approach to living well. Whether it's through discussions on healthy eating, fitness, mental health, or events that explore the finer aspects of life like fashion and travel, FOA ensures that its members have access to resources that enhance their overall well-being.

Looking Ahead: Building a Legacy of Unity and Growth

As FOA continues to expand and evolve, its goals remain steadfast: to unite, empower, and support its community in thriving and making a positive impact in the world. This vision is not just about business success; it's about creating a legacy of unity, growth, and generosity that transcends generations.

In summary, the Family Office Association stands as a beacon of innovation, collaboration, and community for family offices. Through its diverse range of events, commitment to impact investing, and focus on wellness and lifestyle, FOA is shaping a future where family offices not only succeed in business but also lead fulfilling and impactful lives.

JIM SEGRAVE

flyExclusive showcases the visionary leadership of Founder, Chairman, and CEO Jim Segrave. In a detailed interview, Segrave unveils the path flyExclusive took to become one of North America's largest private jet operators, and discusses its plans to list on the New York Stock Exchange.

A Milestone Path to the Public Market

"We filed our definitive proxy statement on November 13," Segrave announced, marking a pivotal moment for flyExclusive. flyExclusive intends to list on the New York Stock Exchange in December. The step is the culmination of years of strategic growth and expansion, which has established the company as the fifth-largest private jet charter operator in the U.S. His prior experience, including the sale of his first business to Delta Air Lines which evolved into Delta Private Jets, has been crucial in guiding Fly Exclusive to this impressive feat.

Distinctive Business Approach

Segrave emphasized flyExclusive's aspirationdriven approach when questioned about its edge over competitors. Eschewing an on-demand flight aggregation focus, flyExclusive champions outstanding customer service and operational efficiency. Its floating fleet model and centralized maintenance and operations in a single location enable greater efficiency and cost effectiveness.

Innovative Business Model

Regarding their business model, Segrave explained that while flyExclusive charters its entire fleet, it retains full control. The fleet, primarily uniform in appearance, comprises a mix of wholly-owned and partner-owned aircraft. This model ensures a consistent, high-quality service for customers.

Customer Access and Fractional Ownership

flyExclusive offers various access points to its fleet, from partner airplane purchases and leases to club programs and retail charters. Through its fractional ownership program, the company provides benefits like depreciation, reduced operating costs, and potential tax advantages. "The smallest share you can buy is 1/16th of a share or 6 ¼%, equating to 50 hours annually," Segrave stated, emphasizing the service's accessibility.

Trends in Private Aviation

Segrave has observed a trend towards fractional ownership in private aviation, with customers increasingly favoring asset ownership for its potential tax benefits. This shift is further supported by the reliability of newer, warrantied planes that are typically less than five years old.

Customer Demographics and Clean Energy Initiatives

The majority of flyExclusive's clientele is based in densely populated regions like the Northeast, South Florida, Chicago, and Atlanta. On clean energy initiatives, Segrave showed interest in hydrogen-powered planes and is collaborating with Textron to enhance their range capabilities and efficiency.

Building a Legacy

Segrave's journey with flyExclusive, from modest beginnings to meeting public company compliance standards, has been both challenging and fulfilling. He envisions flyExclusive as a generational company, contributing significantly to North Carolina's economy through high-paying jobs. Under Jim Segrave's leadership, flyExclusive has carved a unique position in the private aviation sector. Its public listing is more than a business milestone; it's a reflection of Segrave's dedication to innovation, customer service, and community growth. As flyExclusive enters its next chapter, it stands as a beacon of entrepreneurial success and visionary leadership in the competitive world of private aviation.

www.flyexclusive.com

JING NEALIS

Jing Nealis thrives under challenging circumstances.

After cutting her teeth at Deloitte, the financially savvy exec decided to leave the safety of a big four accounting firm for the frontier market of Clean Tech. And she hasn’t looked back since.

“I feel like this is the industry to be in for decades,” Nealis tells Impact Wealth from Goldman Sachs’ annual CFO conference in Miami.  “There's so much going on to drive this energy transition and a new era of electric transportation. If I want to work in a place where I feel good and love what I do, and love the people I work with, then this industry is it.”

In late 2020, SES AI Founder and CEO, Dr. Qichao Hu, approached Nealis to build out the company’s footprint as it developed the world’s first Li-Metal EV battery solution, while partnering with leading automotive giants including General Motors, Honda, and Hyundai. It was an offer she couldn’t turn down, and soon after she joined the company’s C-suite.

“When Tesla first came out, nobody believed they were going to be successful and dominate the market,” reflects Nealis. “What we are on the cusp of with SES is truly revolutionary.”

Beyond the boardroom, Nealis is an avid pickleball player, who wants women to play a greater role in shaping emerging industries. Impact Wealth recently spoke with the EV trailblazer about building a successful team, pushing for innovation under challenging circumstances, and the similarities between sports and business.

Impact Wealth: Let's start with the Goldman Sachs conference. How's that going?

This is Goldman's annual CFO conference. They rotate it to different locations each year, and this year, it is in Miami. It’s great! Most of the 100 CFOs in attendance are from public companies across different industries, such as consumer markets, industrial, and financial services.

It is one day where everyone talks about what CFOs are looking at with the global

economy, the capital market challenges and opportunities, effective stakeholder communications, M&A trends, and AI. The conference provided intelligent insights on how AI can empower CFOs. The fun part of this event is that every year, they invite a sports champion. Last night we heard from Shane Battier, the former NBA basketball player. He was the guest speaker and was wearing the Miami Heat championship ring from 2013. It was really fun to see that, and he even let us wear it!

How does the sports aspect relate to business?

Both are about teamwork, right? When your team wins, you also win as a leader. If your team loses, you lose as well. Working with a team and sportsmanship are both relevant for the business world — we all are leaders and have a team to lead, and we collaborate with colleagues in the organization to accomplish a unified objective – to win.

You live in the Bay Area, how do you find the current business environment there?

I do live in the Bay Area, but our company, SES AI Corporation, is headquartered in Boston. The company started from the basement lab of MIT. At the Goldman conference, we’ve been talking about how the US economy will probably have a soft landing. The era of seemingly endless Fed rate hikes appears to be over. The economy grew at a strong pace in the third quarter of 2023, and all indications are that there probably isn’t going to be a huge recession.

Capital market has been challenging. For us, it doesn’t matter that much. We’re working really hard to innovate and bring our technology to market via commercialization, while delivering results for our shareholders.

You spent a few years in the solar industry. Can you share with us some of the solar projects you have worked on?

I worked on many solar projects, from the US to Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Japan, Australia, Southeast Asia, China, Africa, you name it. I’ve done and seen a lot of large solar farms and also solar panels on rooftops, like the Google headquarter rooftop solar in Silicon Valley, the United Nations peacekeeping force power supply project in Kenya, the Sydney Threatre rooftop solar, the solar projects you see near beautiful farm lands in Germany. The largest solar farm project I worked on was near Balranald, New South Wales in Australia. It is a 349MW solar farm spread over 900 hectares, which is about 1600 American football fields. It is one of Australia’s largest solar farms, generating enough electricity

to power about 105,000 homes per year. It took a long time to negotiate the contract and we worked with a lot of parties to get everything together; the technical guys, our manufacturing guys. The reason why projects like these are able to work is because the cost of solar is coming down. Countries around the world have leaders who are determined to drive us to net zero and use clean power like solar, wind, and other methods. It took us a long time and a lot of effort to get here.

That project gave me a lot of confidence and taught me that with the capital and determination, and the support from different levels of government, energy transition is actually happening, and will continue to thrive. The project also inspired me to subsequently leap into exploring another skyrocketing technology, EV-batteries, here at SES AI.

What did you learn about managing teams in emerging markets during that period?

I've worked in many locations and with teams across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. As a leader, it is really important to first understand the culture, the styles that people operate in, and then start with why we're all here for what we're doing, and then drive results by understanding each team member’s motivations, their culture, and how they operate. Communication is also key.

What's your strategy in curating a team, or do you have a role in that?

I've been really fortunate in that the past few jobs, I was hired as the number one or number two employee for my division. In fact, whether it's a startup within a large organization or a technology company trying to commercialize, I have hired almost everybody in my team to build and shape the organization and grow.

I love the innovative startup culture, rather than the cookie-cutter corporate job. For me, it's super exciting and motivating to start something from nothing and build from the ground up. That's what SES AI has done, as a company. That's what our founder did when he started the company. It's very rewarding and exciting to be in that kind of environment.

What inspired you to join SES AI?

I've been in the clean tech space since I left Deloitte. When I left consulting, I was determined to be in clean tech, and started with solar. When Qichao, the founder and CEO of SES AI, asked me to join as the CFO to lead the company to the next stage, the company was really growing and making significant breakthroughs on the technology front, and getting A-sample joint development agreements with GM, Honda, and Hyundai. SES AI is on a mission to power a new era of electric transportation on land and in air with its Li-Metal batteries. There is no better place for someone with my interest in clean tech to be!

When Tesla first came out, nobody believed they were going to be successful and dominate the market. Since 2020, European, U.S. and Asian countries have all made significant commitments to transition to EVs. Currently the EV penetration rate in Europe is a lot higher than in the U.S. All the car companies like Ford, GM, Volkswagen, and Hyundai have made significant announcements on transitioning to EVs, and have new EV models coming out. It is no longer a dream. I feel like this is the industry to be in for the decades to come.

I love the innovative startup culture, rather than the cookie-cutter corporate job. For me, it's super exciting and motivating to start something from nothing and build from the ground up. That's what SES AI has done, as a company.

What are some of the things that have been most rewarding to you about developing new game changing technology?

The process of creating something that goes through multiple iterations, ideas, and tests. It takes a lot of experiments to get there.

When I joined solar, there were already solar panels, but the cost was $3 per watt — now it's about 30 cents per watt, and the efficiency is significantly higher. Every point percentage increase is a measure of success. The same is true with EV batteries; there's a lot of things that take effort, brainpower, science, engineering and manufacturability to make it happen.

The process of doing that and seeing how something goes from idea to reality is super rewarding. For me, it's very exciting and I'm seeing that happening at SES AI today. Although I joined only three years ago, the company has been around for 11 years. We have some of the best and most dedicated scientists and engineers who are innovating and breaking limits every day.

Cybin's Strategic Approach to Mental Health Innovation under CEO DOUG DRYSDALE

300 million people around the world are suffering from depression, including 22 million United States adults. 19 percent of the US population is suffering from some sort of anxiety disorder. 18 percent of the US population is taking an SSRI. The global mental health crisis, affecting over a billion individuals overall, has spurred an urgent demand for innovative treatments. Among those leading the charge is Doug Drysdale, CEO of Cybin, a company seeking to revolutionize mental healthcare through psychedelic research and pharmacology.

Depression and anxiety disorders, which impact hundreds of millions worldwide, have traditionally been addressed by SSRIs - a treatment paradigm that Drysdale believes is ripe for disruption. “I think what is frustrating when you speak to providers in different areas is that the tools they have had are very limited. To me psychedelics give the ability to completely remove someone’s depressive symptoms after a single dose. These treatments are a complete paradigm shift and not like anything we have seen before," Drysdale comments. This approach, he suggests, could be the most significant breakthrough since SSRIs emerged in the 1980s.

Drysdale, previously having built and turned around three pharmaceutical companies, came to Cybin because he knew the company could make a difference.

Founded in Canada in 2019, Cybin quickly established itself as a scientific leader in psychedelic research. The company, which went public in Canada in 2020 and later listed on the NYSE in August 2021, operates across six countries with a growing team of 55 employees.

Cybin's core research focuses on a synthetic version of psilocybin, which is naturally found in about 200 species of fungi, and synthetic DMT, a compound naturally occurring in plants and animals, including our own brains. The company aims to enhance these molecules' pharmacokinetics, increasing their potency and brain-targeting efficiency. "Our goal is to create shorter, more scalable treatment sessions that are more cost effective, while generating new chemical entities in the process," explains Drysdale.

The company's drugs, currently in phase two clinical trials, promise a faster response time compared to traditional SSRIs, potentially revolutionizing treatment accessibility and efficacy. Cybin's strategy involves direct distribution to mental health clinics, ensuring controlled administration and observation.

Cybin's journey has been marked by strategic acquisitions to bolster its IP and technological capabilities. In January 2021, it acquired Adelia Therapeutics, contributing significantly to its internal expertise. Following this, Cybin’s purchase of the UK-based company Small

Pharma expanded its portfolio, now boasting the largest IP portfolio in the entire sector with 33 granted patents and 170 pending.

Notably, the company has attracted attention from major institutional investors, including Janus Henderson and Point 72, Steve Cohen’s Fund. Cohen, a notable philanthropist in mental health, has invested significantly in Cybin, drawn by its differentiated science, deuteration technology and intellectual property. Cybin is the first company Point 72 has invested in, buying 19 million shares and becoming one of the largest shareholders of the company.

Drysdale sees immense market potential, far beyond depression and anxiety. "When you look at depression and anxiety in the

US, it’s a 40-billion-dollar market. When you think about the other areas we could attack like substance abuse, tobacco abuse, eating disorders, postpartum depression, we're looking at a market exceeding $100 billion and for the right cause," he states.

Companies have already experimented with Ketamine, but the dosing schedule requires 8 visits to a clinic in the first two months. With the use of Cybin’s psychedelics, visits could be twice a year. In fact, according to Drysdale, studies with DMT show a complete remission for up to 6 months in 40 percent of depressed patients. Drysdale's vision positions Cybin not just as a pharmaceutical company, but a pathway forward of relief. Drysdale is steering Cybin to revolutionize mental health.

Photo by: Brandon Cook/BFA.com

JEFF KOONS The Polarizing Brilliance of a Contemporary Pop Art Icon

In the pantheon of contemporary art, few names evoke as much debate, adulation, and intrigue as Jeff Koons. As one of the world's most influential pop artists, Koons emerged as a pop art titan in the 1980s, marked by his bold embrace of popular culture and consumerism, finding beauty in the banal. His different bodies of work blend accessibility with esotericism, whimsy with seriousness, capturing the essence of his artistic approach and pushing the boundaries of art. He blends commercialism, kitsch, and high culture in a way that has made him one of the most collected contemporary artists of the 21st century.

Koons and Bernardaud: A Meeting of Craftsmanship and Vision

The partnership between Jeff Koons, a provocative figure in contemporary art, and Bernardaud, the revered French porcelain manufacturer, represents a remarkable fusion of avant-garde creativity and traditional craftsmanship. This collaboration, born from a shared vision of excellence and innovation, saw Koons seeking a medium to reinterpret his iconic works, particularly his balloon dogs, in the realm of high-quality porcelain. Bernardaud, with its rich legacy in fine porcelain artistry from Limoges, provided the perfect canvas for Koons' artistic expressions. The partnership resulted in exquisite porcelain renditions of Koons' creations, including his balloon dog plates and other balloon animals, showcasing the unique synergy between contemporary art and classic manufacturing techniques. This collaboration not only enriched the artistic repertoires of both Koons and Bernardaud but also offered a fresh perspective on the potential of porcelain as a medium for modern artistic expression.

The Koons x Bernardaud collection includes iconic pieces from his “Celebration” sculptural series, which reference and symbolize life’s celebrations and milestones, such as the metallic balloon dog and his piece de resistance, the limited edition Diamond (Blue). At the recent unveiling of his collaboration at Bernardaud’s New York flagship, Koons shared, “I'm really excited about the diamond. It relates to anniversaries and celebrations, embodying a romantic

quality. But for me, it symbolizes the moment of creation, like when the sperm enters the egg. The facets of the diamond represent the facets of life unfolded. Looking at the back of the diamond, you see how far back you can trace human history through our genes, our DNA, and human biology. When you look at the diamond, you see the four posts, one post having already entered the egg, and the others holding the facets of the diamond.”

Innovations in Digital Art: The Lunar NFT Series

Koons' influence extends beyond the art world, resonating with a broader cultural movement that embraces both nostalgia and innovation. Venturing into the digital realm, Koons' Lunar NFT series marks a bold step into new artistic territory. Koons explained, “I'm sending the first authorized artwork by NASA to the moon. We're hopeful it'll go up at the end of January. We're working with SpaceX and with NASA’s Intuitive Machines. It's a private company that built the lander, and we have some cargo space, so I'm sending up 125 moon phases. Each moon phase shows the illuminated and shadow parts of the moon at any particular time with the light of the sun. Each one of the 125 is named after a person who, at some point in history, I subjectively deemed as making a tremendous contribution to human society. They span a wide range of human history, from all different cultures, sexualities, and ethnic groups, from Buddha to Muhammad Ali, Plato, Leonardo da Vinci, and the list goes on.”

Future Projects and Artistic Ambitions

Looking forward, Koons remains focused on public sculptures, with several pieces planned for Qatar and other parts of Europe. His works, such as the large Dugong endangered sea mammal and the train development, demonstrate his continued ambition and creative drive. Additionally, Koons hinted at future collaborations, including a potential project with Stella McCartney, showcasing his versatility across different mediums and industries.

Jeff Koons remains an undeniable figure in contemporary art, continually pushing boundaries and inviting exploration into the myriad ways art can manifest in the modern world. From his collaboration with Bernardaud to his groundbreaking Lunar NFT series and his beloved and influential balloon dogs, Koons' artistic journey is a testament to his relentless pursuit of new forms of expression and his significant impact on the art world.

Bernardaud.com Jeffkoons.com

TRACEY EMIN

Tracey Emin returns to New York City with her first solo showcase in almost eight years, presented at the White Cube New York gallery opening night press preview on November 2, 2023. The “Lovers Grave” collection expresses Emin’s emotional history and journey of healing, love, and coming to terms with oneself through contemporary painting. Inspired by the concept of “live together, die together, go to heaven together,” Emin marvels at the wonder of passionate relationships and the overwhelming flow of love between two persons within them.

Acclaimed painter Tracey Emin is anything but conventional. Full of life, laughter, witty quips, and vivacious attitude, the esteemed artist speaks to the art world and her audience as if they were her closest friends. Her artistic educational institution and art residency program are built upon her notion of “ideas, communication, and sharing art,” and her gallery opening at White Cube New York feels no different in that regard. Emin speaks openly about her new exhibit and the “Lovers Grave” theme, reminiscent of the iconic archaeological discovery of an intertwined couple excavated amidst the ruins of Pompeii’s fiery eruption. Four years before the pandemic, Emin created a wild painting in the middle of the night – a couple ensconced in each other’s arms in a coffin shape on a white canvas. The concept reminded her of a lover’s grave such as in Pompeii, and inspired this latest showcase. As Emin says, “the next thing I knew, I was thinking how amazing it would be to love this much. I hadn’t been in a relationship for ten years…in the end, I painted over it [the original rendering] and turned it into this wild and amazing painting that I truly loved.” She built these passionate emotions with a backbone of the idea that she “wanted you to fuck me so much that I couldn’t paint anymore” when passion overtakes project. The artist later fell in love after this initial painting, but kept being reminded of this lover’s grave concept; it became a majorly positive trend in her mind. “Live together,

die together, go to heaven together” – this is what Emin wanted to portray in her art.

At the same time as this connected love blossomed, the artist received news that turned her life upside down: she was stricken with a rapidly spreading cancer diagnosis, and life as she knew it was about to end. However, Emin muses that this same great love “pulled her out of the grave” and felt eternal. “Physical touch and the feeling of being held elevated me, and pulled me out of my own grave,” the artist shared in a sentiment relating meaningfully to the series of Lovers Grave paintings now on display at the White Cube.

Tracey Emin’s work has been applauded internationally and the artist has risen to fame and earned multiple accolades for her touching, provocative, and emotional works in various mediums throughout the years. Her body of work and style work through her anxieties about painting – “feeling naked and painting naked” are meaningful to Emin, as evidenced from her prior 3.5 week-period in Stockholm where she notoriously painted entirely in the nude for its duration. However, Emin admonishes that her work is not about sex – instead, she aims for discourse on making oneself uncomfortable and facing internal reckonings in a most natural, vulnerable state. She never knows herself how a final work will decidedly turn out in composition – she likens the experience of painting to transcending and looking down

upon herself as she works. Painting titles are also very important personally to her, though Emin shyly admits she doesn’t always remember what each work was named, out of the millions of titles she’s assigned. Her titles always tell the story of her and her life, and make sense in some way, but she impresses upon us that “it’s not a series of work – it’s not like ‘this is the red series!’ These are just the paintings that I’ve done that fit in with Lovers Grave” for example. Emin also often listens to classical music as she works, as she admits that music with lyrics can bring her too far inside of her head or influence her works subliminally. She also loves dancing - she reminisces that she used to stay up all night, enjoying a drink and dancing as she worked. Now in her sober era, she has evolved to be much more calm, and is a fan of her tranquil “Relaxing Piano Music” playlist.

Through titles and elsewise, a small piece of Emin’s backstory and own self are immediately present in each work, and there are certainly many of the artist’s own stories to tell through her impressive experiences and occasionally difficult times. For example, she shared with us that in a previous period, she was pregnant for four months. She then had an abortion, resulting in a feeling that her life was moving too quickly and overwhelming for her to reckon with. Rather than drowning in her own breakneck daily life, Emin became reclusive for a time. She wrote and learned remotely, rather than creating art. She entirely

Every time I come to New York, I cry. Every single time.
Artist Tracey Emin

stopped painting for a full two years – “after this, I felt like there was no room for me in the world of art or in the nineties’ world of art, so I studied philosophy for two years” Emin recalls, before she edged back slowly into the world of art via landscapes and animal studies (far different from her current styles.)

Now feeling inspired after moving emotionally past these darker times, Emin beams as she muses on coming back to New York City with her first solo exhibition after almost eight years. She recounts reconnecting with White Cube gallery owner Jeremy Michael “Jay” Jopling, an old friend of hers. Emin explains, “Jay said, ‘I’ve got a space, and I’ve got it for you” about the White Cube, resulting in this current “Lovers Grave” showcase. After approximately thirty years of friendship, the two art industry giants still “understand, love, and work with each other after all these years in a supportive partnership of growth,” as Emin puts it. To her, these loving relationships are the key to growth and personal fulfillment. The artist recounts the story of how the night before her major surgery treatment, she was pondering upon the fact that she didn’t have a partner, children, or anyone close to her at the time. She thought: “well, what happens to me? What was my life about?”

Emin distinctly recalls adamantly thinking, “oh hell, I don’t want to be remembered as a ‘quite interesting artist from the nineties” as she went under the knife.

Today, Tracey Emin is recognized not only as a quite interesting artist from the 1990s, but as a force to be reckoned with in the art world today for her provocative work and meaningful storytelling. She also champions art in a uniquely philanthropic

way through her residency program; not one of the talented instructors that Emin employs gets paid for teaching the course, for example. Each teacher instead receives a watercolor piece from Emin herself at the end of the course as a sign of her gratitude for their act of service, and their dedication to inspiring emerging artists by bolstering their skills and work for the next generation. As for herself, Emin feels confident in her future, and rightfully so. “People ask me: ‘Oh my god Tracey, how could you have done so much in the last three years? It’s because I don’t drink anymore…I’ve got much more time. I’m just working hard, and doing and loving what I do. I’ve got a good future to look forward to [compared to past hardships] – it’s not negative, it’s positive.” She implores, “for me, coming out from all of this, it doesn’t matter how low or how sad you feel… Every time I come to New York, I cry. Every single time… I really appreciate everything happening, it’s good, it’s exciting, and I have lots to work towards.” The artist currently has multiple new showcases that are coming soon, and cheekily tells that there’s too many of these new projects to even speak on, when pressed for details.

And I said Eat me - Bring me back to Life

If her rousing applause and brilliant reception at the White Cube New York for “Lovers Grave” are any indication, Emin certainly has a rewarding period of her career ahead of her for those new exhibitions. Guests at the opening of “Lovers Grave” were abuzz with kind words and thought-provoking conversations between each other while drinking in each unique work on display. Cuisine and coffee from the much-loved Sant Ambroeus catering in New York City provided a perfect accompaniment for the morning gallery perusal, and felt like a slow step away from the bustling city lifestyle for a moment of calm collection. An audience favorite work was Emin’s crimson and teal large scale And It was Love piece, displayed prominently by the entrance of the exhibit. One gallery-goer commented that all of her senses were employed on her walkthrough, from enjoying light bites to inhaling the nostalgic scent of paint that could be discerned when examining a piece up close.

Out of all the titles in the “Lovers Grave” gallery show, a personal favorite painting Tracey Emin herself would add to her own home – a sacred space for creating and

enjoying life – is a small blue work in an upper level room titled Just Fuck You. The artist admits that she also kept one work from this collection for herself, currently hanging in her home. She shares in an abashed tone that she very much almost kept both of these two for herself, but decided to include Just Fuck You at the White Cube exhibit in the end. Perhaps surprisingly for a painter, Emin provides insight that she doesn’t have much art on display in her home. She believes that her home paintings are hers alone, and any painting that would hang in her home would never be sold as it’s such a personal work – “I don’t want to spoil myself just because I made it,” she states, and similar to any collector of fine art, the piece would have to speak to her deeply personally in order to make the cut for display in a sacred and equally personal space. Emin frets that she has too much going on in her head at any given time while creating art, and she adamantly declares she would never want to form too heavy an attachment to any prior styles by surrounding herself overly immersively with them. Instead, the painter looks to the future of her work and aims to continually move forward with fresh inspirations.

We can safely expect plenty of exciting concepts and fresh gallery work from Tracey Emin in the coming months and years, from the artist’s hints about her busy schedule with major projects currently in the works. Emin always brings a unique perspective on contemporary art through her own lens, immersing a viewer into her world and masterfully combining a reflection of both self and other into a single contemplative work. Her pieces are rightfully sought after within the art world, and her own vivacious demeanor and thoughtful yet cheerful outlook on a renewed life serve to inspire and motivate any who are blessed to hold a conversation with her or witness the artist in action. “Lovers Grave” will be on display at the White Cube New York until January 13, 2024, and is well-worth a long walk through Emin’s uniquely crafted universe of sheer love, entanglement, trial, and tribulation through contemporary art. Although Tracey Emin herself may cry without fail every time she comes to New York, the city is proud to host such an influential artist and add her striking narratives to its creative landscape again after the better part of a decade.

The Beggining and The end of Everything
You Left me on The Mountain

MARK DI SUVERO

Going at 90

At the age of 90, Mark di Suvero has had a distinguished career, with exhibitions and commissions around the world. Yet, to date, no monograph has been published on his entire career, exploring his first shows and his subsequent hit show with Richard Bellamy at his Green Gallery in 1960—a great success for the young sculptor who worked only with found wood, which was what he could afford in those early years. Di Suvero was one of many post-war artists in New York redefining art. Bellamy was the visionary who foresaw the future, presenting shows with artists such as Robert Morris, George Segal, and Alfred Leslie. Reviewing di Suvero’s very first exhibition for Arts Magazine in 1960, Donald Judd described the size and force of di Suvero’s sculptures as “thunderous,” an adjective that is equally applicable to the new work di Suvero continues to produce today.

Di Suvero, in many ways, represented the sculptural transmission of Abstract Expressionist feeling; the strength and power of a gestural brushstroke translated into a diagonal scrap of wood or a metal bar across another field. 'Eurydice,' created in 1959, is one such example. Di Suvero saw vitality in these fragments of form in the same way de Kooning found resonance in the broad single stroke of a brush across a canvas. Both efforts delivered power and meaning. Di Suvero sculpted in three-dimensional space, forcing the viewer to engage in the 360-degree escapade of wood and, later, metals. If di Suvero was translating his more visceral reactions into physically articulated grand and monumental gestures, 'Sooner or Later,' created in 2023, is a remarkable accumulation of curves, shapes, and angles, forming a testament to the transformation of humble industrial steel into art.

At Paula Cooper, a long-time advocate of di Suvero’s work, both home-scale and publicscale works are on display. When he works outdoors and builds on a monumental scale, he commands the same presence as architecture. Here again, I-beams are translated into grand gestures. In 2015 at Crissy Field, sponsored by SFMOMA, he was invited to present several outdoor works in the Bay Area. Here, he positioned a beautiful medley of abstract forms against the sky and sea. One critic pointed out that when you are close to di Suvero’s larger works, standing near, under, or within

them, they envelop you. From afar, you appreciate the drawing, the architecture, and surprisingly, the lightness and delicate touch. The sculptures don’t appear heavy or straining; they sit gently on the land.

Another key factor is di Suvero’s inherent sense of balance; equipoise, as if he instructed the metal how to stand, how to bend, and how to present themselves as individually framed creatures. He is both a craftsman and

a choreographer. Few sculptors can control scale so patiently, so carefully, so that whether big or small, there is a sense of achievement, ultimately a sense of harmony. The individual parts are clearly defined but also work in conjunction with their reflective counterparts.

Back at Paula Cooper Gallery, the character of the three scales presented is evident: big, medium, small, all distinguished by their scale and individual look. Notice one work dates

from the 60s, while the other two are from the 21st century. However, between those many years, di Suvero has maintained an ambitious vision and talent, imbuing these works with a life all their own. They form a handsome trio in this handsome space, being just right in their juxtaposition. This group rewards the viewer with all the qualities that make di Suvero a master of his art and someone who should be given the stage to allow us to see, learn, and enjoy six decades of his art.

PIERRE SOULAGES

The Painter of Midnight

Some years ago, at an Art Basel Miami art fair, I saw a small 1999 painting by Soulages in the booth of a German gallery. I was in Miami looking for works for the Microsoft Art Collection, a collection I had been hired to expand and curate the year before.

It was 1999, and I wondered, 'Is Soulages still alive and working?' He was part of a post-war group of abstract painters who had survived the war and were much heralded in their respective countries. Each had his own brand of creativity and invention. Soulages, born on Christmas Eve in 1919, was then 80 years old when he presented this work. He died in 2022.

The small painting, all black, was stunning, no larger than 20 x 30 inches. Universally applauded, Soulages was a French artist whose thick black brushstrokes—labeled outrenoir (beyond black)—against lighter backgrounds characterized his eight decades of work. A painter so opposite the two schools of painting that dominated the French landscape: Impressionism and Fauvism, both renowned for bright colors and endless displays of life in broad daylight, and au plein air. Here was a painter who chose a monochromatic path as if rejecting anything made by the two masters

of Modernism, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso, and finding his own path and way.

A solo show in New York opened in the spring of 2014, 'Soulages in America.' A friend and artist, Mark Petersen, flew from Oakland, CA, to see this show with me. Mark, also an abstract painter whose work I had discovered online the year before and had bought two paintings for my collection, died way too early in 2019 by suicide.

We both agreed the exhibition was stunning, dramatic, and well-installed, so we spent an hour or so wandering from canvas to canvas. Surprisingly, the gallery was not busy, but again, this is not everyone's taste: all black paintings. But the drama was in how they were made and how light reflected off the surface of each canvas. Decades before the post-minimalist movement in the US, painters in the post-war era were engaged in all sorts of experimentation

with the meaning, content, and substance of painting. Turning inward, they looked away from the city or countryside, still scarred with the wounds of World War II.

His first dealer in New York, the highly influential Samuel Kootz, took Soulages into his gallery in 1954 and worked with him until the close of the gallery 12 years later. Kootz, one of the leading art dealers of the post-war period in New York, was an early supporter of the American school, including Franz Kline and Willem de Kooning. Kootz was also aware of and a champion of the post-war advances in painting in Europe. Almost a decade later, James Johnston Sweeney, another early supporter, organized a Soulages retrospective at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, in 1966.

Some might compare Soulages' works to Frank Stella's black paintings of the 60s, but Stella was more formulaic, depending on shape and structure rather than invention

and emotion, and the drama of executing such ultimately elegant compositions. Initially, the black element was the persona of the painting, placed in front of a monochromatic background. Over time, the black became dominant, encompassing both the foreground and background. And over time, Soulages explored a textured surface. Here, Soulages examines the very nature of the medium: how to guide it and apply it onto the surface of the canvas. Ironically akin to artists like the Italian Piero Manzoni or the American painter Robert Ryman, both of whom chose white as their color. Like Ryman, Soulages saw painting in terms of process, thereby exposing the dynamic character of paint as a way to see each work not as a window to the world but as an object that exists within the world. Each work is a fully formed and shaped matter of canvas on which a systematic application of paint is made. And while united by paint, the nature and character of each canvas changes and shifts depending on scale or the pattern of paint application.

When Pepe Karmel published his 'Abstract Art: A Global History,' I wondered how Soulages and his circle would be discussed in the context of abstract painting around the world. Much to my surprise, he was not included, nor were his German contemporary Hans Hartung, or Americans like Grace Hartigan or Jack Tworkov. The focus for many curators and art historians over the decades of the 60s, 70s, and even 80s was towards movements like Pop art, Minimal art, and Conceptual, pushing European avant-garde innovators aside. This also explains why Soulages was not offered any other museum shows in

the US since 1966. Yet times are changing. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, in the fall of 2015, presented a retrospective of the post-war Italian artist Alberto Burri, an eye-opening exploration of the growth and manner of another painter who experimented with a variety of materials and, in his late years, monolithic paintings in black.

This second show at Levy, Gorvy, Dayan, and is an important event, a selection of some 30 works from local museums and the artist's studio. It is a recognition of his masterful talents and hard-won vision.

'It is everything a collector would want to find in a Pierre Soulages, from the bold, energetic composition to the play of light and the sensual interaction between the black and blue paint,' as opposed to Kline's intersections of black strokes and fields. In his native France, Soulages donated some 250 works for a museum opened in 2005 and dedicated to his life and work. The museum is in Rodez, France, near the city of Toulouse. 'Soulages should be known and honored in this country as we now honor the masters of the Abstract Expressionist movement. Soulages proves the power and passion of abstraction. He has distilled the essence of painting, albeit painted at midnight.

SS24

For Spring 2024, designers blurred the lines between fashion and fine art, presenting collections that are not just about clothing but moving canvases displaying creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship.

Photography by Charles Barnes

PASTELS & GEOMETRIC INTERPLAY

Missoni

POP

ART & BOLD PATTERNS

Benetton
Philip Plein

BRUSHSTROKES

Daniella Gregis

ART LANDSCAPES

Photography by Daniel Perry @danielperrystudio Hair & makeup @beautybymatt_ Jewelry by Cameron Patrick Neth @cameronpatrickneth Shot on location in Palm Beach at a private estate

MADISON BUFF A Journey Through Lens and Soul

Madison Buff, at 25, has charted a unique course from the serene landscapes of Hawaii to the vibrant surroundings of Palm Beach. Her journey in photography began at 11 with an underwater camera, marking the start of a love affair with visual storytelling. Madison's transition from Hawaii's turquoise waters to Palm Beach's sophisticated charm is reflected in her work, capturing the essence of each locale's unique allure. Her talent behind the lens is evident in the gorgeous fashion editorial with Kimberly Guilfoyle shot by Madison Buff at Mar a Lago for this issue.

A Confluence of Photography and Energy Healing

Madison's work extends beyond photography. Embracing energy healing, she adds a spiritual dimension to her craft and engages in sound and Reiki healing, exploring the mind-body-spirit connection, and serves as a life coach. She views each photo as a conduit for positive vibrations, intertwining visual storytelling with energy work. As she finds harmony in her connection with nature, Madison has adopted a vegetarian lifestyle.

Madison's photography approach involves creating a genuine connection with her subjects, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for authenticity. She focuses on transformative, healing photography, guiding subjects to

envision their best selves, making each frame a visual poem of human experience.

Living the Palm Beach Lifestyle

Moving to Palm Beach five years ago, Madison sees Palm Beach not just as a home but as a canvas for growth, where the landscapes inspire her photography, and the community's energy fuels her healing pursuits. Some of her favorite spots in PB include the Green Market, the whimsical Sloans ice cream parlor, Saint Ambrose, the iconic Breakers, as well as the Flagler Museum and the social scene in Mar A Lago.

Journey to Mrs. Palm Beach

Madison's journey to becoming Mrs. Palm Beach, supported by Jackie Siegel, involved participating in the Mrs. Florida for America pageant and winning Mrs. Florida in the International pageant system. She uses her platform to advocate for mental health awareness, reflecting her commitment to community service.

Madison Buff's journey through photography and energy healing in Palm Beach reflects a harmonious blend of artistic vision, spiritual growth, and a deep connection with nature and community.

@Buff_media_

A Guide to The CARIBBEAN'S MOST ELEGANT ISLAND

It is estimated that 5% of the world's wealthiest people visit Saint Barth’s over the New Year period*. And as we head into the peak holiday season, returning travelers have a bevy of stylish new places to eat, stay, and play on the sophisticated French Caribbean Isle. Nikki Beach has been joined by Cannes hotspot La Guerite, which recently set up along the same sandy strip next to Gyp Sea - a chic new beach club which also offers elevated accommodation options. La Petite Plage is the most exciting new restaurant to arrive in Gustavia in years, with sand flooring

and a fine dining scene that rolls into a haze of DJs, dancing, and champagne after hours.

Plus, there are spectacular new villas to book for the most extravagant of guests, including the exceptional Villa de France at Cheval Blanc – a 7,000 square-foot residence with two private infinity pools, a private kitchen, spa, and wellness center. Most of the hotels have undergone major renovations, too in recent years, with new rooms and amenities, and several newcomers including Fouquet's Le Carl Gustaf and Le Tropical.

As described in Assouline's new book, St. Barth's Freedom it's “a place that is geographically paradisial, filled with stylish and rigorously exciting restaurants, but where an inclusive and renegade spirit suffuses every corner.”  One thing is certain: there has never been a better time to visit the Caribbean's most elegant island. Ahead, we list the very best places to stay this winter.

*According to data from the Marine Traffic app, which tracks the location of superyachts.

Cheval Blanc Saint Barth’s

Cheval Blanc is one of the finest hotels in the Caribbean and undoubtedly one of the best beach resorts worldwide, which is unsurprising given it’s owned by luxury juggernaut LVMH. There are emblems of excellence at every turn, from the uniformed white architecture, resembling a scene from Mykonos, to the ultra-luxe interiors fashioned by Jacques Grange (known for his work with a coterie of high profile names, including Karl Lagerfeld and Princess Caroline of Monaco). The main feature, however, is the pristine white sand beach, which is widely considered the most beautiful on the whole island, with crystal clear waters and rugged islets adorning the horizon. It’s a picturesque masterpiece that blends stunning scenery with sophisticated styling and an atmosphere that feels lively yet unpretentious. Wellness is a key focus, too, with a spa menu that goes beyond the standard treatments (anything can be bespoke and there are personalized yoga and meditation sessions on offer). And the dining scene is equally impressive from the beach club-style La Cabane, where guests go for breakfast and lunch, to the more formal fine-dining restaurant, La Case, helmed by Jean Imbert. If you’re seeking an elegant beach escape, this is the place to prioritize.

Eden Rock

Nowhere exemplifies the hedonistic glamor of Saint Barth’s quite like Eden Rock – an address that is so iconic Assouline recently released a book to honor its 70th anniversary. The property was completely refurbished after Hurricane Irma, and a multimillion-dollar renovation was unveiled in 2019, including redesigned suites with state-of-the-art features (some including private gym spaces) jacuzzis, and slick interiors, a spa built into the rock itself, and a glossy new bar created by designer du jour, Martin Brudnizki. The culinary program is directed by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and features crowd-pleasing menus containing caviar, Dover Sole Meuniere, prime steaks, and more casual options including lobster rolls, burgers, and black truffle pizza during the day. It remains the buzziest destination on the island and at any time of year, it’s like stepping into a modern-day Slim Aarons shoot. It also has a prime location for getting around, just along from Nikki Beach and only a three-minute drive from the airport. If you’re going for the scene, this is the place to stay.

Rosewood Le Guanahani

Located on a private peninsula overlooking a lagoon on one side and the ocean on the other, Le Guanahani has long been one of the most coveted locations in St. Barth’s. In 2020, it was added to Rosewood’s star-studded portfolio (The Carlyle in New York, Hotel de Crillon in Paris), and the hotel group’s high standards are evident from the revamped design through to the personalized service. Throughout the lush 18-acre property you will find the only on-site tennis court on the island, a beautifully appointed spa, a children’s center, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, and an oceanfront bar. There are 66 rooms in total, 20 of which have private pools with sprawling terraces and panoramic views. Given many guests opt to remain in their luxurious private enclaves, it never feels overly packed, which one of the many drawcards for the high-profile guests it regularly hosts.

Celebrating 60 Years of Thrilling High Performance MCLAREN'S REMARKABLE JOURNEY

In the world of luxury car design and high-performance vehicles, few names carry the prestige and heritage of McLaren. This year marks a significant milestone in the brand's history as it celebrates its 60th anniversary, and McLaren enthusiasts worldwide are in for a treat.

60 Years of McLaren: A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1963 by the bold and visionary Bruce McLaren, the company has evolved over the decades to become a symbol of cutting-edge automotive engineering and design. While McLaren has left an indelible mark in Formula 1 racing, its achievements in the realm of consumer cars are equally remarkable.

This year, McLaren pays homage to its founder, Bruce McLaren, who ignited the brand's journey six decades ago. From the very beginning, McLaren's commitment to thrilling high performance has been unwavering, and that commitment continues to shape the brand's identity today.

Iconic Liveries: A Tribute to McLaren's Triple Crown

In celebration of its 60th anniversary, McLaren has taken a unique and captivating approach to pay tribute to its rich racing heritage. Four McLaren GT supercars have been meticulously wrapped in racing's most iconic liveries, each commemorating McLaren's highest accomplishments in motorsport history.

The first livery harks back to the Indy 500 victory in 1974, a defining moment that solidified McLaren's presence on the global stage. The second livery pays homage to the Monaco Grand Prix triumph of 1984, a race that showcased McLaren's dominance on the world's most prestigious circuits. Finally, the third livery draws inspiration from the 24 Hours of Le Mans victory in 1995, a testament to McLaren's endurance racing prowess.

These liveries not only represent McLaren's historic achievements but also serve as a visual testament to the brand's relentless pursuit of excellence.

The McLaren Consumer Experience: A Testament to Innovation

While McLaren's Formula 1 success is legendary, the brand's consumer cars have been equally groundbreaking. Each McLaren vehicle is a masterpiece of engineering and design, meticulously crafted to deliver an unparalleled driving experience.

The McLaren GT, for instance, exemplifies the fusion of high-performance capabilities and everyday usability. With its powerful V8 engine and luxurious interior, it's a testament to McLaren's ability to push boundaries while providing comfort and practicality.

TUMI's McLaren 60th Anniversary Collection: A Touch of Luxury

Luxury luggage brand TUMI has joined forces with McLaren to create a limitededition collection that reflects the brand's commitment to luxury and innovation. Featuring the signature Papaya color and exclusive finishes, each piece in this collection is a tribute to McLaren's renowned partnership. For those who appreciate both high-performance cars and luxury travel, this collaboration is a match made in heaven.

McLaren's 60th Anniversary and...Legos?

In an unexpected yet delightful twist, McLaren has partnered with the renowned Lego toymaker to cap off its 60th birthday. The result is a rare double-pack Speed Champions set that will surely excite enthusiasts of all ages. This unique set includes the classic 1995

McLaren F1 LM and the stunning 2023 Solus GT, both in the iconic Papaya Orange paint.

With 581 pieces in total, including two drivers dressed in McLaren driving gear, these Lego models faithfully recreate the essence of McLaren's iconic vehicles. The attention to detail is impressive, with the McLaren F1 LM featuring the central driving position and unique air vents, while the Solus GT boasts the single-seat configuration and a massive rear wing, staying true to McLaren's roots.

Conclusion: Embracing 60 Years of Automotive Excellence

As McLaren celebrates its 60th anniversary, it's evident that the brand's legacy is not only about its past achievements but also its unwavering commitment to innovation and performance in consumer cars. From the racetracks to the world of luxury travel and even the realm of toy enthusiasts, McLaren continues to capture the hearts of car aficionados across the globe.

The unveiling of these remarkable celebrations, from the iconic liveries to the collaboration with TUMI and Lego, showcases McLaren's enduring spirit of excellence. With its exceptional consumer cars and a promising future, the next 60 years of thrilling high performance are poised to be even more captivating.

As we toast to McLaren's incredible journey, let's raise our glasses to the brand that has mastered the art of engineering, design, and luxury in the world of consumer automobiles.

THE BRIDGE Where Automotive Legends Converge in Style

The Bridge, one of the automotive world's most illustrious events, recently returned to the idyllic surroundings of Bridgehampton, creating a haven for vintage car enthusiasts and those that appreciate the beauty of a rare luxury. The seventh edition, aptly named The Bridge VII, took place as usual in late September, a time that is typically one of the most beautiful times of year for the area. Though this time around hazardous weather conditions led to the cancellation of the main Bridge VII events scheduled for Saturday. A quick and brilliant pivot however expanded the planned Friday evening Collectors Reception, and once again the iconic hills of The Bridge golf club were transformed into a showcase of the world's most rare automobiles and elegance.

At its core, The Bridge is a celebration of rare and iconic race cars that have left an indelible mark in motorsport history. Among these legends was the 1954 Ferrari 250 GT Competition Lightweight Berlinetta, a rarity with only four ever manufactured and two still in existence. This historic vehicle once raced the original grounds of The Bridge, symbolizing the event's dedication to preserving automotive heritage.

The 1987 Porsche 962, securing fourth place overall at Le Mans, made a resounding statement of Porsche's endurance racing prowess. These vintage treasures, along with a collection of Porsches celebrating the manufacturer's 75th anniversary, created a visual symphony that captivated attendees.

More than an exhibition, The Bridge is an immersive experience. While guests feasted their eyes on these automotive marvels, they also savored a variety of culinary delights and exquisite cocktails from Smorgasberg.

The Bridge VII would not have been possible without the generous support of its partners. The presenting sponsor for The Bridge VII is Richard Mille. Partners of the event include: NetJets, ZEGNA, Merrill, Bonhams, Technogym, Alcantara, Bespoke Real Estate, Topping, Rose House, Lamborghini, Bentley Motors, RollsRoyce Motor Cars, Czinger Vehicles, McLaren, Pagani, Bugatti, Zenvo Automotive, Bollinger Motors, Lucid, Gateway Bronco, Automobili Pininfarina, Polestar, Morgan Motor Company, The Little Car Company, Sacrilege Motors, Eccentrica, Bizzarrini, Cincoro, and Google.

The Bridge is the brainchild of Robert Rubin, owner of the Bridgehampton Race Circuit and founder of The Bridge golf club. Together with event organizers Shamin Abas, President of Shamin Abas Communications & Experiential Marketing, and Jeffrey Einhorn, a Manhattan-based attorney and enthusiast, they have crafted an event that transcends the boundaries of automotive exhibitions.

The Caribbean Surges Ahead on EV INFRASTRUCTURE OVERHAUL

Kingston; Jamaica - As climate change continues to dominate global news cycles, the Caribbean region is emerging as a leader in executing macro level changes toward sustainability. Most notably Prime Minister of Barbados and frontrunner for UN Secretary General Mia Mottley has used her platform to state the devastating effects of climate change in the Caribbean and the region’s resulting surge toward immediate implementation of environmental best practices. It is upon this backdrop that the 8th staging of the Caribbean Sustainable Energy Forum (CSEF VIII) saw key regional leaders in Alternative Energy converging on the AC Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica from November 7th - 9th.

The energy summit saw key decision-makers holding crucial discussions with thought leaders and industry experts from over a dozen CARICOM nations, and the implementation of Electric Vehicle infrastructure held centerstage over the course of the event whose theme was “Re-powering Transport”. Dr. James Fletcher, Chairman of the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency (CCREEE) and former Minister of Energy and Climate Change for Saint Lucia, called for participants to position themselves as champions of Sustainable Energy in order to create a true paradigm shift, noting “the commitment of a room full of delegates to serve as energy champions for the region, if nothing else, is a major step in the right direction.”

Participating industry leaders answered the call. Key to the conversation was Canada-based Flash Motors, which has launched its Caribbean operations out of Jamaica. The company served as premier sponsors of the event, and whose principals headed sessions for Government Utility Delegates regarding the de-carbonization of transport, as well as the development of policies , standards and procedures to support the buildout of infrastructure. Flash, the Caribbean channel partners of ABB, has joined forces with local governments in Jamaica and Guyana, and has already begun its regional infrastructure rollout. Also present were representatives from

industry giants such as Huawei (China), Total Energies (France), and regional conglomerate the Grace Kennedy Group (LATAM) along with smaller regional players such as EverGo, National Commercial Bank (Jamaica) , Tropical Mobility, and the Jamaica Public Service.

Government leaders rallied behind the contingent of EV and Energy companies, noting that there would be a long road ahead to making a grand transport transition. Several delegates committed to supporting the EV shift including Ministers whose perviews span several portfolios such as Technology, Climate Change, and Transport and Energy. These included The Hon. Melford Nicholas, of Antigua and Barbuda; The Hon. Kerryne James of Grenada; and The Hon. Konris Maynard of St. Kitts and Nevis, who each committed to not only driving change within their respective countries, but to pushing for the accelerated use of domestic renewable energy sources.

Assistant Secretary-General of Economic Integration, Innovation and Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, Mr. Joseph Cox stressed the need for nations to creatively manage the EV switch, noting the economic potential for certain nations to become major suppliers of low carbon commodities within the emerging global market that is distancing itself from fossil fuels and petrochemicals. The region doubled down on their commitment to clean transport, as Cox also announced that a regional think tank would be established to support the emerging energy and EV sectors.

Carey Escoffery, CFO of Flash Motors noted that the event was both timely and inspired sharing “CSEF has become a priority in our annual calendar, and it is amazing to be part of this dynamic EV and Sustainable Energy community that has been steadily growing in the Caribbean over the last decade. With the changing tide of local government support we are seeing exponential growth in the sector and I anticipate nothing short of a transport revolution across this region of some 30 Million consumers”.

Global Leaders, Celebrities & Billionaires Swarm the Hamptons for

THE ULTIMATE MOGUL FEST

at The Uber Exclusive 1640 Society Family Office Wealth Forum

The ultimate mogul fest was back in the Hamptons with the 1640 Society private annual meeting of billionaire families, global leaders and some of the most significant family offices meeting at a private home in Southampton at the end of August to discuss issues affecting the global elite, and top 1%. It is an exclusive invitation-only event that brings together leading family members, and family offices from around the globe for closed door private discussions. The Forum covered relevant topics including impact investing, asset allocation, wealth preservation philanthropy, cyber security, blockchain, tech investing, as well as how to create family harmony, values & legacy. Families attending came to the Hamptons from across the globe including Asia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, UAE, Latin America, & with many leaving their summer vacation yachts in Europe to join. The main meeting is once a year in the Hamptons with another earlier in the year in Palm Beach.

The audience consisted of some of the leading families from across the globe including Royal family members from Europe and the Middle East, owners & CEO’s of some of the largest companies in the world, self made tech billionaires, next-gen legacy family members, heirs as well as the Chief Investment Officers who make key financial decisions for the families. Security was tight throughout the conference, with checkpoints at every entrance to the residence and anonymous security guards protecting some of the families attending.

Private discussions at the Forum were fascinating ranging from conversations on purchasing private islands, getaway homes in New Zealand & Switzerland, family kidnappings, multimillion ransoms, security protocols, family governance, co-investing with other families in philanthropy that can change the world and make it better to families who compared notes on the latest professional football, hockey or soccer team they acquired. Fashion icon Donna Karan met and bonded with pop star Ciara over dinner the evening before the Forum and chatted into the late evening. It was the first time both leaders of fashion and music & entertainment had met. The official panel discussions were just as interesting as the unofficial chats. The 1640 Society is known for bringing influential families with synergies together to form unique bonds that can last a lifetime. Another exceptional panel merged 3 billionaire families with father

and son or daughters on the panel including Donna and Gabby Karan Felice, Andy and Sam Sabin and Andrea Catsimatidis. Global leaders from across the globe including the former US Ambassador to the EU, with the Byrne family, a Warren Buffet protege whose family started GEICO insurance giant were led in a discussion by Ambassador Kurt Volker, Former US Ambassador to NATO and Special Representative for the Ukraine on how to solve the Russian and Ukraine crisis. Actress, singer and entrepreneur Ciara Wilson impressed families with her business brain and desire to have a positive impact on the world, billionaire philanthropists the Siegels participated in a philanthropy panel with NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis and a European billionaire, and the billionaires who invented the code for google spoke on capturing the next tech unicorns. David Rubenstein Co-Founder & Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group ended the day with a conversation on global philanthropy, leadership and investing in a global economy.

The Siegel’s had flown an emerging pop singer in on their jet to perform some of her hit songs while guests mingled over cocktails, and enjoyed Grammy award win-

ning Ciara’s Ten for One rum concoctions, sophisticated offerings from Adobe Road Winery, Mirabeau Rose and Gin, Oceano Wines, & spirited concoctions from Naked Diablo tequila and Deluxe Vodka.

Some of the most influential families in the Hamptons attended and many high net worth families who applied could not get admitted. Thousands applied to attend and the Committee runs the Forum like a country club with a rigorous approval process and takes applications with only 200 families approved to join the Forum annually. Families who got past the ultimate velvet rope include some of the leading names in America including the Pitcairns, Kennedy’s, Bush, Firestone’s, Ford’s, Rockefeller’s, Bronfman’s, Kettering, Getty’s, Kluge, Pritzker’s, Johnson’s, Heinz, Hunt’s, tech entrepreneurs such as Musk who co-founded Paypal, along with international magnates including the Mittal family form India & Pears families from Europe. Westhampton airport had over 40 private jets fly in just for the exclusive and highly anticipated Forum. The next Forum is in Palm Beach on Monday April 8th Details on www.1640society.com if you are fortunate enough to secure an invitation.

Photos by Yvonne Beri & Ana Reyes

Ciara Shines at the Hamptons

1640 Society and Impact Wealth Magazine

NIGHT BEFORE COCKTAIL PARTY

An Exclusive Inside Look

The titans of finance were back in the Hamptons this year for the invite-only 1640 Society Family Office Conference and Impact Wealth Magazine’s “Night Before” cocktail party and cover launch featuring Anthony Scaramucci held at a beautiful Sagaponack estate developed by Shoji Homes. Pop sensation Ciara, glowing with her radiant baby bump, graced the occasion in a chic black shirt dress. Her Ten for One rum concoctions were the talk of the evening, adding a special touch to the already spirited atmosphere. Culinary delights were in abundance with Chef Meze and Hamptons Oyster Company setting the gold standard. The beverage scene was eclectic, featuring Adamas Pisco’s unique watermelon cocktails, sophisticated offerings from Adobe Road Winery, Mirabeau Rose and Gin, Oceano Wines, Sip Channe, and spirited concoctions from Naked Diablo tequila and Deluxe Vodka. Not to mention, Jiu Jiu Vodka, Gorgi Energy Drinks, and the refreshing Perricone Hydrogen Water. A special thanks to our sponsorsMonarch Estate Services, One Water Yachts, Hamptons Employment Agency, and floral arrangements by Designs by Mark Massone.

Hosted by Editor in Chief Hillary Latos and Publishers Angela Gorman and Adam Weiss, attendees included cover star Anthony Scaramucci along with Jackie Siegel, Jill Zarin, Cagri Kanver, real estate mogul Kent Swig, Naken Diablo Tequila Founder and Philanthropist Rob Fitzpatrick, Sip Channé Founder Kavita Channe, AJ Catsimatidis Patrick Byrne, Andrew Sabin, and Dr. Nicholas Perricone and 1640 Society’s Alan Reid.

Photos by Dean Powell, Paul Prince, Sabrina Steck /BFA.com

TECHNOLOGY AND GEOPOLITICS

A Newport Conversation on Unity, Division, and the Future of Innovation

Over the summer, Karl Feitelberg and Jason Feitelberg of Sterling Resources and Dr. Matthew Putnam hosted a provocative and engaging conversation in Newport, Rhode Island which brought together an impressive panel comprising Her Majesty Queen Diambi, Dr. Matthew Putman, Kaushal Sheth, and Anwaar Al Mahmeed. This intimate ocean front dinner party focused on a critical and timely topic: the intertwining of technology and geopolitics in contemporary society. The discussion delved into whether technology serves as a unifying force or a divisive tool, especially in the context of emerging domains like quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and biotechnology.

PANELIST BACKGROUNDS

Her Majesty Queen Diambi: As the traditional leader of the Bakwa Luntu people of Central Kasaï and the African descendants of Brazil and Panama, Queen Diambi actively fosters international alliances and friendships. She spearheads various international philanthropic projects, leveraging her position to create positive change.

Dr. Matthew Putman: The CEO and cofounder of Nanotronics, Putman is a Founding Member of the Quantum Industry Coalition. His expertise in applied mathematics, physics, and material science is backed by numerous publications, patents, and news articles. He is a key thought leader in AI, tech, manufacturing, and semiconductor innovation.

Kaushal Sheth: With extensive experience in tech entrepreneurship, Sheth is a vanguard in AI applications. His work bridges computer science and neuroscience, contributing to the development of models replicating human brain design.

Anwaar Al Mahmeed: As a venture capitalist and a significant player in the deep tech and blockchain sectors, Al Mahmeed brings a wealth of knowledge in innovative financial technologies and their implications.

DISCUSSION HIGHLIGHTS

The panel explored several critical questions, including whether current technological advancements are moving us towards unity or division. In the context of the race for supremacy in fields like quantum computing and AI, the conversation also pondered

if the right questions are being asked.

One of the key excerpts from the conversation involved the ethical implications of AI, particularly its potential to infringe upon personal sovereignty and privacy. The example given was the use of functional MRI and AI to interpret and visualize human thoughts, raising concerns about the loss of mental privacy and the dangers of such technologies in authoritarian regimes. This example illustrates the dual nature of technology as both a liberator and a potential tool for control and surveillance.

The panelists also discussed the impact of technologies like blockchain and digital currencies. While initially perceived as instruments of financial freedom, concerns were raised about how these technologies could be used for tighter control over financial transactions and personal data.

However with new technologies now becom-

ing accessible to developing countries, Dr. Matthew Putman pointed out the massive benefits and potential ripple effect from individual countries who localize their supply chains. This would not only jumpstart the global economy but also create a massive wave of innovation that is more sustainable, better for the environment, and bolsters competition. New technologies make this possible and his life’s work is dedicated to creating this technological utopia.

The conversation in Newport highlighted the complex and often contradictory roles of technology in modern society. It underlined the importance of cautious and ethical development and regulation of new technologies, balancing innovation with the protection of individual rights and freedoms and potential for enriching and empowering developing countries. The insights from this panel are crucial in understanding the dynamic relationship between technology, geopolitics, and individual liberty in the 21st century.

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