MARCH 2012
SPRING'S HERE
LOOKBOOK 2012
CONTENTS 8
FOCUS VAN CLEEF & ARPELS
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60 SIGNATURE HOMES HOME CENTRE
PROFILE BERNARD VIOLA
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CARS BOND IN MOTION
18 LOOKBOOK SS 2012 21 ACCESSORIES ARMANI PRIVE CUIR NOIR 58 CAUSE GREEN SAPPHIRE BALL 64 ART MICHEL HADDI 70 INTERVIEW BRETT EGAN
PLUS MORE........
MARCH MA ARCH RC CH 20 2012 2012
SPRING'S HERE
LOOKBOOK 2012
EDIT NOTE
VOL1 - ISSUE 7
EDITOR IN CHIEF FATMA AL ARAIMI GROUP EDITOR MAYANK SINGH ASSISTANT EDITOR DEEPA RAJAN CORRESPONDENT MYSSAA AL HINAIAH EXPERTS Travel - BRUCE STEWART, ANNE COLBY Fashion - NATASHA LUNN, NADIA FOUZI Finance & Investments - K. L PRASAD ART Senior Art Director SANDESH S. RANGNEKAR
STYLED TO INSPIRE
As a writer one often has to borrow inspirations from words of wise men and women to get across a point. These wise words from wise people are enough to get you thinking on the Life, Universe and Everything else. Yes, that does include matters of fashion and style. Here are some quotable quotes from some of our favourite people (We quote them often, you see!) “Beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity.” Plato “One is never over- or underdressed with a little black dress.” Karl Lagerfeld “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” Coco Chanel
Senior Photographer RAJESH RAJAN Photographer
“The only rule is don’t be boring and dress cute wherever you go. Life is too short to blend in.” Paris Hilton
BASIM AL MAHARBI PRODUCTION
“The difference between style and fashion is quality.” Giorgio Armani
Production Head GOVINDRAJ RAMESH ADVERTISING & MARKETING Advertising Manager CHANDNI MANIAR CORPORATE Chief Executive - SANDEEP SEHGAL Executive Vice President - ALPANA ROY Senior Business Support Executive RADHA KUMAR UNITED MEDIA SERVICES LLC Signature is published monthly and released in the first week of every month. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person or organisation acting or refraining as a result of material in this publication. Signature accepts no responsibility for advertising content.
Correspondence should be addressed to SIGNATURE UNITED MEDIA SERVICES LLC, PO Box 3305, Ruwi, PC 112, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, Mobile +968 99849242 Fax +968 24707939
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“Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way to live.” Gianni Versace “The most important thing to remember is that you can wear all the greatest clothes and all the greatest shoes, but you’ve got to have a good spirit on the inside. That’s what’s really going to make you look like you’re ready to rock the world.” Alicia Keys “You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. Too many women think that they are unimportant, but the real proof of an elegant woman is what is on her feet.” Christian Dior “Anyone can get dressed up and glamorous, but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing.” Alexander Wang “Style is a simple way of saying complicated things.” Jean Cocteau
FASHION AND STYLE OFTEN REFLECT YOUR INNER SELF. SO, LOVE YOURSELF, IT NEVER GOES OUT OF FASHION
CHRONOGRAPH CAMBIANO DESIGNED BY T H E F I R S T F U L LY C O N V E RT I B L E
B OV E T F L E U R I E R
SWITZERLAND
FOUNDING MEMBER OF THE QUALITY FLEURIER CERTIFICATION AND PARTNER OF THE FONDATION DE LA HAUTE HORLOGERIE
B OV E T. C O M
AU TO M AT I C C H R O N O G R A P H
BLOCK YOUR DATES MARCH 2012 The Cheltenham Festival March 13 -16 Cheltenham, UK
International Salsa & Dance Festival March 1 - 3 Muscat, Oman
Sting Back to Bass Tour
March 2 E-Werk, Cologne, Germany
Australian Grand Prix March 16 - 18 Melbourne, Australia
The Sunday Times Oxford Literary Festival
MAROC CLASSIC 2011 - La Route du Coeur®
March 24 - April 1 Oxford, UK
Rallye du Maroc Classique
March 11 - 18 Casablanca to Marrakech, Morocco
National Cherry Blossom Festival
Baselworld March 8 - 15 Basel, Switzerland
March 20 - April 27 Washington DC, USA
Spring of Culture March 1 – April 16 Bahrain
Launch of Media Night
March 18 Zouk, Crowne Plaza Muscat, Oman
FOCUS
An enchanted world Welcome to the world of Van Cleef & Arpels, a bounteous ethereal universe...
Alfred and Estelle Van Cleef
Kahlil Gibran once said, “Perhaps time's definition of coal is the diamond.” We would go a step further and say that Van Cleef & Arpels (VCA) are time’s definition of true jewellery art. VCA was created in 1906 thanks to the love story between Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a diamond cutter, and Esther - or Estelle- Arpels, the daughter of a dealer in gemstones. Together, their two names have written some of the most beautiful chapters in the history of jewellery for more than 100 years, and their achievement is constantly furthered and enriched by the expertise of our superb craftsmen, the ‘Golden Hands’. For VCA, jewellery is an art: their highly demanding gemmologists select only the purest, most exceptional stones. The astonishing Mystery Setting technique inspires their designs. The virtuosity of their jewellers brings to life the Maison's ingeniously transformable jewellery sets. Finally, the asymmetry which is one of the iconic signatures of their style brings a unique, natural energy to these pieces. Their creations reveal a world of femininity and grace, arising from a fascinating universe of nature, a garden of Eden, teeming with fairies, butterflies and lucky charms. This bounteous universe of beauty, dreams and precious perfection, offers an invitation to see the Maison's poetic vision of an enchanted world. THE FAIRY-TALE BEGINS In 1896, Estelle Arpels, daughter of a dealer in precious stones, married Alfred Van Cleef, who came from a long line of Dutch craftsmen
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Boutique VCA (1906)
specialised in cutting precious stones. He was 24, she was 19, and both have been part of the world of fine jewellery since childhood. Youthful enthusiasm, a passion for jewellry, a taste for taking on a challenge, and constant family support: all combine to promote the partnership of Alfred Van Cleef and Charles Arpels, who are soon joined by Julien Arpels. Their new company “serves as an enterprise to create and sell jewellery”. In 1906, the name “VCA” was registered and the shop was set up on the Place Vendôme. Their intuition was right on the mark: the new political and economic elite and the businesses they ran, the popularity of world’s fairs held in Paris, and the growth of cultural tourism that attracted many to the City of Light, all contributed to the continuing prosperity of this Right Bank neighborhood. Companies serving a wealthy, cosmopolitan clientele established operations around the square – and later in resorts their clients frequented -- and over time the Place Vendôme came to symbolise a special kind of elegance, simplicity and classicism that was supremely French – the “French touch”. PLACE VENDÔME Louis XIV, aiming to create a square that would serve as a prestigious focal point for the rapidly expanding Rue Saint Honoré neighborhood, asked the celebrated architect Mansart to design the Place Vendôme. This square became a famous financial centre in the 18th century, when John Law, who invented paper money, bought more than half of the octagonal square, bringing in his wake a
number of other entrepreneurs. Later, bankers took the place of financiers and set up their offices and homes on the square, while others who foresaw a bright future for this stunning example of harmonious architecture daringly decided to open new businesses there as well. This was the case for Charles Ritz, who in 1898 built a hotel in his name on the square, and in 1906 VCA opened their doors at number 22, Place Vendôme, in Hôtel de Ségur. Today, VCA is still located at 22, Place Vendôme. The former private salons have been replaced by a boutique which underwent a stunning redesign to celebrate its centennial year in 2006. And, if VCA is now ranked one of the pioneers on the Place Vendôme, it is because the House has always trusted its intuition. It is also because the House has perpetuated that special sense of fraternity born of the union of two families who were committed to devoting their best efforts to a project that would surpass even their own dreams. This is the unique spirit of VCA. THE PHILOSOPHY The Van Cleefs and the Arpels shared with their customers a certain philosophy of life dominated by respect for the past – the two families would
never forget that their ancestors had suffered displacement and exile – as well as a love of beauty, a passion for travel and a quest for harmony. These are fundamental, timeless values, and they continue to link VCA with those who wear the House’s creations. The VCA style is also characterised by sophistication and an effortless natural elegance with nothing obvious about it. “True art is that which does not look like art at all. And one must do everything in one’s power to conceal it,” wrote the Italian Balthazar Castiglione in the 16th century concerning his concept of sprezzatura. Sprezzatura is a combination of ease, elegance, a touch of casualness, a bit of arrogance, unselfconsciousness, a hint of haughtiness and quiet confidence. In the world of VCA, this results in creations that demand inordinate amounts of patience as well as true technological innovations, like the Mystery Setting, yet give the impression that they have been made without great effort, almost without thought. Times change, the spirit remains. The spirit of a marvelous world where the years pass but loyalty to the House’s essential values never falters, where new collections and creations are born but where traditional craftsmanship is carried on from generation to
FOCUS
generation, being enriched, perfected, driven by a unique creative vitality, inspired by that perception of time which distinguishes VCA: time as renewal. INNOVATION IS THE KEY To seek, explore, invent. This spirit leads the house to perpetuate its matchless artistry while also questioning its craft and inventing new procedures and techniques. It also takes the House well beyond the Place Vendôme to travel throughout the world. It is from the desire to innovate technologically, came the Serpent chain, Zip necklace and Between-the-fingers rings. For the Frivole line (2003), VCA developed a new pyramid setting to allow more light around stones to increase their brilliance. In this setting, a group of stones is handled like a single gem. Since the art of fine jewelry means never calling attention to one’s techniques, Van Cleef & Arpels developed a unique new setting, the Mystery Setting. Another technical achievement of a very different type was the Minaudière, which involves a variety of refined details. SPREADING ITS WINGS VCA began to expand throughout the world, encouraged by the many awards the House had received in international shows. Travel, in fact, is a significant part of the Van Cleef & Arpels tradition, since employing the finest precious stones means going to where they can be found. At the beginning of the 20th century, Van Cleef & Arpels opened new stores in beach resorts and spa centers frequented by a well travelled cosmopolitan elite. The first boutique in Dinard, France opened in 1908, and stores in
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Nice, Deauville and Vichy were opened before World War I. After peace was declared, the House opened boutiques in Cannes, Touquet and Monte Carlo. In 1929, the very day of the stock market crash, Van Cleef & Arpels opened a small outlet in New York City. It was not until 1942, when members of the Arpels and Van Cleef families immigrated to New York, that the House opened its first boutique within the elegant Bergdorf Goodman department store. Today, the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique in New York City is at 744 Fifth Avenue. Another example of the House’s desire to stand apart from the rest can be seen in its determination to expand on an East-West route rather than the more common North-South one, which led it to open its first store in Japan in 1974. This was also because the Van Cleef & Arpels spirit and its key sources of inspiration found an echo in Asian culture. THE MUSES Van Cleef & Arpels have always loved their women. The House believes that women are beautiful because they love them, listen to them and understand them. Because they offer them pieces of jewelry that will not only enhance their beauty but will also celebrate that special something that makes each woman desirable and unique. Glamour, in other words! The House has been admired by many remarkable women, all different from each other but all with a strong personality. Among the most famous include Marlene Dietrich, Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy, Grace Kelly, Queen Noor of Jordan, Uma Thurman, Julia Roberts and Scarlett Johanssen to name a few. The House’s creations have attracted the world’s
attention at many momentous occasions, for example the marriages of the Shah of Iran and of Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly and later of their daughter Caroline, Lanvin and JeanPaul Gaultier fashion shows, the Cannes Film Festival, the Academy Awards ceremonies. But the House continues to protect the privacy of each of its customers, even perpetuating the custom of using pseudonyms on special orders for celebrities. Perhaps, the reason why VCA is today revered as one of the most venerable jewellery houses in the world. For it not only guards the privacy of its customers, it also guards the hallowed traditions of jewellery making turning the trade into to more than just an art form
The Mystery Setting The secret of the Mystery Setting? An extremely delicate web of gold on which precious stones are set one by one. Rubies, sapphires and, more recently, diamonds (whose hardness allows for a specific kind of cut) are set using the Mystery Setting. The quality of a Mystery Setting piece depends on the colour, clarity and homogeneity of the stones. The lapidary chooses the stones according to very strict criteria and carefully positions each one depending on its size. Since the setting involves much less metal than traditional settings, it allows for much more light to reach the stones, thus enhancing their brilliance and showing them at their very best. Gemstones are combined in complex shapes full of motion – particularly ones inspired by the natural world dear to the House – to form as if by magic pieces of jewelry that are both precious and timeless.
FOCUS Stanislas de Quercize joined the Richemont group in 1990, and has since held a number of senior positions across a range of luxury brands. He has served as General Manager of Alfred Dunhill and Montblanc in France (1990 to 1994), President and CEO of Montblanc North America (1994 to 1997), and International Marketing Director for Alfred Dunhill in London (1997 to 1999). In 1999, de Quercize was named General Manager of Cartier France, and assumed his current position with Van Cleef & Arpels in September 2005. A licensed lawyer, de Quercize is a graduate of the Ecole Supérieure de Commerce, a leading French business school in Rouen. He is also a board member of the Jewelry Information Center, American Watch Association, Jewelers of America, and Luxury Marketing Council.
CRAFTING SUCCESS
Stanislas de Quercize, President and Chief Executive Officer Van Cleef & Arpels International, answers Deepa Rajan’s questions on the Van Cleef & Arpels legacy…
What would you say was the Van Cleef & Arpels vision at the time of the brand’s inception? And how is the brand adapting to the new consumer trends and preferences? “In 1906, Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels registered the name “Van Cleef & Arpels” and opened their first boutique on Place Vendôme. Our role since then has been to find inspiration in beauty and culture and interpret it with our creativity, select what we call the best Pierres de Caractère, and craft unique pieces of Jewellery thanks to our Mains d’Or. This is precisely the combination that makes our Maison a real signature of style, evident in our various collections.” What would you say is the customer profile of Van Cleef & Arpels? “A Van Cleef & Arpels customer is an aesthete, a connoisseur, sensitive to the timeless beauty of our creations.” How bespoke is Van Cleef & Arpels? Any favourites among the specific pieces that were created “Every day, somewhere in the world, there is a special order placed with Van Cleef & Arpels. That is why we created a specific service called 'Design to your Dreams': we offer our clients the possibility to make any dreams of jewels come true. “I have in mind the Pont des Amoureux watch that has been customised for a couple who asked us to tell their own love story that began in the Grand Canyon and that is what we did.” There’s a story behind every Van Cleef & Arpels’ high jewellery timepiece. Was it a conscious decision to do so or did it begin as a happenstance? “Van Cleef & Arpels has unveiled a new dimension of time: poetry. Since 2006, Poetic Complications® watches have captured the ephemeral and enhanced the moments born of emotion, happiness and memories. Each Poetic Complication® timepiece is an alliance of the discreet precision of watchmakers and the creative brilliance of great master craftsmen:
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jewellers, lacquerers, inlayers, engravers, setters and enamellers. Also, do not forget that our Maison’s story starts like a fairy tale, with the love story and wedding in 1895 of Estelle Arpels and Alfred Van Cleef!” Given the current economic situation, how has SIHH 2012 been for Van Cleef & Arpels, especially in the context of the Middle East? “With more than 13,000 worldwide attendees and 1,200 journalists, the SIHH has been a real success. We presented three stories: 1) The story of a man, Pierre Arpels with the Pierre Arpels watch; 2) The story of Bals de Légende with Poetic Complication watches coming along with our last High Jewellery collection; 3) The story of a wish with two revolutionary complication watches, the two Poetic Wish watches. “Our clients in the Middle-East have a sharp eye for quality and are becoming more and more connoisseurs of our Maison. Van Cleef &Arpels has a strong presence in the Middle-East and a promising future.” Higher the price, more the exclusivity… Do you agree/disagree? Why? “Emotion is not a matter of price, transmission of the beauty of our Savoir-Faire neither! That is why the Maison decided to create its school of Jewellery: L’ECOLE Van Cleef & Arpels, for all those who love beauty, be it the connoisseurs or professionals. It opened its doors on February, 14. Open to an international public, its mission is to cast a light on the very secretive world of Jewellery and to share its most precious asset: its savoir-faire. In keeping with this transmission’s idea, we are organising two major exhibitions: one in the Moca Shanghai in May and one in the Musée des Arts Déco in September.” What is your vision for VCA in the next five years? “Jacques Arpels used to say “We only want to offer the best to our clients”. Our role is to keep this motto of the Maison alive.”
QUICK TAKES Luxury means… “Pierre Arpels used to say: “Beauty is what remains when the superfluous has been stripped away”. Your most favourite VCA memory… It is a very recent memory; seeing Jean-Marc Wiederrecht and Olivier Vaucher’s faces when they discovered the assembled Poetic Wish watches, combining the technical prowess of the master watchmakers and the virtuosity of the artistic craftsmanship. As Olivier Vaucher once said “each year, we seek to surpass ourselves in each of our interwoven crafts”. One thing that the world does not know about VCA… “VCA stands for Very Creative Artists”
PROFILE
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f you happen to walk into Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton Hotel and find an affable looking man greeting you with the most infectious smile on his face with a sense of familiarity that you have never felt before, then Ladies and Gentlemen, you have most definitely run into Bernard Viola, the General Manager of Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton Hotel. Viola has been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, working for a variety of hotels in the United States, the Pacific Islands, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Japan, France, Russia, etc. He transferred to Muscat from Osaka where he was the general manager of The Ritz-Carlton. Prior to that appointment, Viola had already amassed experience in the Middle East as the general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa since 2008. He has also held the position of hotel manager at The RitzCarlton, Tokyo since its opening and at The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow. A background in the food and beverage division gave him all the experience he needed to become executive assistant manager, food & beverage at The Ritz-Carlton, Rose Hall Golf & Spa Resort in Jamaica. Viola has also assisted in the openings of several Ritz-Carlton hotels which two in Beijing, China. In his new role in Oman, Viola will be responsible for all aspects of the landmark hotel’s operations, employee engagement, guest engagement and brand recognition and other such sundry jargon, which come with job profile. But, what Viola brings to the table as the General Manger of such a prestigious property, is the most simple thing of them all (and the most difficult to achieve): Genuine people care. All you have to do is meet him once, and you’ll realise what we are talking about! Viola was born to be in the hospitality industry. “I was born between the kitchen table and kitchen sink (family home in Nice, France). I guess that was an indication of my career
LIFE’S A BEACH
BERNARD VIOLA, GENERAL MANAGER OF AL BUSTAN PALACE, A RITZ CARLTON HOTEL, SPEAKS TO DEEPA RAJAN ON HIS LOVE FOR OMAN’S BEACHES, HIS PASSION FOR THE SERVICE INDUSTRY AND HIS ZEST FOR LIFE… 14
path. As a youth I was not very disciplined and I was not too inclined to study, even though I came from a French Navy family. I worked in night clubs as a disc jockey for seven years and then I realised I was not going anywhere. I started in the hospitality industry by accepting a position in the kitchen of the Negresco Hotel as commis de cuisine and then from there, out of the blue one day, while at The Hilton Paris fine dining room I received an offer to work for The Fairmont Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, as Maitre d’.” Viola left for the United States of America at the age of 24 and while he has lived there since, he says, he has been living and working outside US and travelled has all around the world, including the Middle East for the past 13 years. His first stint in the Middle East saw him working for one of the princes of Saudi Arabia. He says, “One day I received this call for a great job from the Saudi Royal family, and off I went. My first few instincts were to refuse and then His Royal Highness and owner came into the picture and it became very hard to refuse, then I worked for the Saudi Royal family for two years, they mesmerised me, I truly loved them. They were very charming, their charisma was remarkably larger than life, not to mention their spending ability. This was definitely a redefining experience of a lifetime.” Viola was one of the first people to start working for the Ritz Carlton Company in 1985 and then he says he left the company due to cultural differences with his general manager. “Years later, after my stint in Saudi Arabia, I got a call from my former general manager from Ritz-Carlton Hotels Company, who asked me to come back to the company with a choice to go to either Jamaica or Korea and I chose Jamaica. Life’s always a beach in Jamaica. (laughs) and I am a water baby.” According to Viola, The Ritz Carlton Hotels Company is a great company not only because it offers a very good work environment, but it is managed by ‘people who value people’. “Our Ladies & Gentlemen are the most important asset.” So what is the Ritz Carlton Hotels Company philosophy and how does he plan to apply it to the Al Bustan? Viola says, “It is very simple really. We have a national Omani brand coupled with an international brand, which is known for its legendary hospitality. I truly believe deep down in my heart, that the Omanis have the best hospitality gene than any other Middle Eastern nation. “The July brand reconversion has been quiet
consuming, we are diligently working in making Al Bustan Palace an urban oasis destination for all seasons while creating personalised experiences one at the time, fueled by our Ladies & Gentlemen, who are the essence of the Omani culture”, says Viola. Viola came to Oman in June and since then has been living mesmerised by the natural beauty of what he calls ‘God’s own country’. Viola quips, “I was told by many GCC natives that I should visit Oman, time never allowed it. When I first visited Oman back in November 2010, I saw the beautifully manicured landscapes, the well maintained clean roads, then I realised Oman truly was a serene place, it was an absolutely breathtaking experience!” “I count my blessings here every day. I spend my days and nights in such a magnificent property. After all, you do not have the honour and privilege to work in a palace every day! I am grateful for that and I feel blessed to live around nature and my family is pleased to be in Oman.” We agree. Oman’s beauty and the grandeur of Al Bustan Palace can indeed be overwhelming, but not as much to Viola who takes each day with a certain sense of joie de vivre that rubs off on you instantaneously. Perhaps this zest of life comes from the fact that Viola has seen it all. His most recent tryst with disaster was the 2011 Japan earthquake. But does it faze him? Not one bit. He says, “This is not the first earthquake we have faced in Japan, especially when you live in Tokyo, which lies on the great fault line, its routine. So I am used to it. Though, I have to say that the earthquake that got to me the most is when we were at a tempura bar in Tokyo and we experienced rough tremors. Plates were flying, we were shaking and there was hot oil in the pan in the kitchen, ready to spill all over. But, the chef was calm, the people did not panic and once the tremors subsided, it was business as usual. This was something that moved me.” Viola has travelled all over the world and says each place he has been to has taught him a life skill. He talks fondly of his time in Hawaii and says. “I think over the years, one of the most defining moments of my life was when I was in Hawaii. The people of Hawaii are very different from the rest of us, in the sense that all the islanders live together as a community. Coming from a Western world, the idea of sharing and community living was not a familiar one, but living in Hawaii taught me to open up to other people. If you close on
yourself and do not learn from others, you stop growing at all levels.” Indeed, these are the experiences that make Viola the man he is and give him a certain je ne sais quoi that will make Al Bustan Palace grander than what it already is. For among all the qualities that he thinks define ‘good service’, he believes that ‘love’ is the key. “It is something that defines your work. If you do not love and are not passionate about your work or love the people around you, it will not reflect in your personality. Nobody likes grouchy people and imagine the difference it will make if you as a service professional, are able to treat people as you wish to be treated with a genuine smile and kind words, from the moment the guests come in contact with you in the very early hours of the morning, they will indeed feel appreciated” Well, we know one place that this is already happening! After all, It is not every day you walk into a hotel to be greeted by the General Manager himself. The enthusiasm and pleasantness is bound to rub off!
QUICK TAKES Plans for Al Bustan “The biggest project that we have on our hands is the spa project, which should be ready by the end of the year. It is 3000sqm of area under the Six Senses brand. It is a very elaborate project. Today the focus is on how to interact with one another and our guests, this is what it is all about, respect and courtesy, the education of our Ladies & Gentlemen is the foremost complex process, which is ongoing. We want to make a big difference in the Omani hospitality industry, in line with His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said’s vision which led to the construction of the Palace in this specially hand-picked Godly location” Your most favourite part of the hotel… “The kilometre long beach front! I just love it! It is simply holistic, sea water cures everything.” Your motto in life “You lead, you follow or you get out of the way.” The most fun part of your job “Speaking with people and meeting new people. The hospitality business is a people’s business! That is what I love about my job and also being able to travel to many different countries and learn from various local cultures” Beyond hotels ? “I always tell my wife that you are my second wife, I am married to my work The Palace is my first wife (She is not jealous!) I am always thinking about our Ladies & Gentlemen, their wellbeing and safety! The only time I don’t is when I am in the gym or cycling.”
It’s time to reset priorities
At Oman Forum 2012 on Tuesday, 17 April, the focus shifts to the key socio-economic challenge facing Oman – building the national talent pool.
17th
of April is the day to watch out for
Oman Forum will be the first broad-based platform of its kind. It will bring together important stakeholders from the public and private sectors, academia, student bodies, and workers’ unions to propose long-term strategies to tackle the issue. The convergence of diverse perspectives over two distinct sessions is meant to help identify solutions that are not just potentially more effective, but eminently practical as well.
ﺑﻨﺎء اﻟﻜﻔﺎءات اﻟﻮﻃﻨﻴﺔ Building National Talent Date: 17 April 2012 Time: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm An initiative by
In association with
Ministry of Civil Services
The Research Council
Strategic Partners
Knowledge Partner
Media Partners
For partnership enquiries please contact: AHMED 99356490
INTERVIEW From US to Oman, how did the journey begin? And how would you say your role has evolved since you got here? “The cultural dialogue between the Kennedy Center and Oman began in 2009 when the Kennedy Center’s Arabesque festival featured a production from Oman. As the Royal Opera House was nearing completion, our dialogue increased with a focus on what type of support the Kennedy Center might be able to provide for an interim period to ensure a successful opening. Ultimately, the dialogue took the shape of interim management for the opening season. “Our role has been to work closely with the dedicated Board and staff of ROHM to ensure that the building opened successfully, that the performances were executed to the highest standard and to continue to instate policy and best practices throughout the building and in relationship with the public. “In the past few months, the Opera House has started settling into itself, as is the case with any business. One of the key objectives is to identify full time staff to run the whole operation and I am glad to say that we are making progress toward that, with a recent round of job openings available to Omanis and more to come.”
CULTURAL HOTSEAT DEEPA RAJAN TALKS TO BRETT EGAN, INTERIM CEO OF ROYAL OPERA HOUSE MUSCAT, ON HIS JOB, LIFE AND LEARNINGS IN OMAN… Brett Egan joined the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as Director of the DeVos Institute of Arts Management in December 2009. In this capacity, Egan directs the center's programmemes in arts management training and consulting, comprising of capacity building programmemes in eleven American cities and similar initiatives in several countries worldwide. Before joining the Kennedy Center, Egan also served as Executive Director of the New
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York-based modern dance company, Shen Wei Dance Arts, a Kennedy Center resident company and principal contributor to the 2008 Olympic Opening Ceremonies in Beijing. For Egan, the journey from US to Oman has not only been a challenging one, but also an experience that he will cherish for a lifetime. In a free-wheeling interview with Signature Egan talks about his role as Interim CEO, the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM), and much more.
Any chances, you will stay on as CEO? “First of all, let me tell you that it has been an historic honour to serve in this capacity. It has changed my life. I have been deeply moved by the dedication of my Omani colleagues, the Board, and the crew of expatriates from throughout the world who have come together to contribute their expertise here. In the coming years, the Opera House will have a permanent staff, consisting largely of Omanis; it is part of my job to ensure so they can function in a sustainable manner. It is our hope that ROHM will find a permanent CEO shortly and that we can play a role in ensuring that this individual is successful.” Is Kennedy Center completely going to detach itself from the opera house or the partnership still remains? “It is our hope to be involved to the extent that makes sense for the Opera House. The mission of the DeVos Institute of Arts Management at the Kennedy Center, which I run, and under which auspices I am working at ROHM, is to support and empower arts organisations worldwide – to work with local leadership to ensure a sustainable future. "At a certain point, we wouldn’t be successful if we were still around in the same role (if you
know what I mean!) So in a sense, our mission is to become unnecessary. “In the future, the ideal type of relationship between ROHM and any collaborator will be one of mutual interest and cooperation. For instance, institutions worldwide will seek to collaborate with the Opera House to co-produce works of art or offer students opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue. “I would like to see Omanis take part in a programme I run at the Kennedy Center – a three-year fellowship for arts managers. There is no reason in my mind that this opera house, like the Kennedy Center, couldn’t become a regional hub for training professional arts managers who go on to become leaders at other institutions throughout the region.” How difficult did you think was the challenge to organise these performances keeping in mind the cultural sensitivities of this region? “Of course, in any cultural institution, you want people to feel comfortable and that values they hold sacred are respected. By definition, opera and theatre ask many of the same questions as do the great religions, questions that societies have grappled with for millennia. The opera and the theatre ask us to deal with the most elementary and timeless topics of our lives: sacrifice, infidelity, faith, brotherhood, the divine, love etc. "The key is to do it with integrity, quality, and great respect. It is any cultural institution’s aim to stage works that ask questions about these core topics, even to lead the audience in a discussion or exploration of these areas. Otherwise the theatre becomes irrelevant.
WHEN YOU BUILD SOMETHING AS BEAUTIFUL AS A ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, YOU ARE NOT ONLY DEVELOPING A PLATFORM FOR GLOBAL DIALOGUE. YOU ARE ENTICING TOURISTS TO COME SPEND MONEY IN THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY Great works of art ask the big questions, challenge expectations, and begin to look for new space where audiences can achieve a profound understanding of life. But if art only reaffirmed what we already knew, art would not do society any service.” Is this where your education and outreach programmeme will create awareness amongst audience? “Yes. All cultural institutions perform outreach and educational activity for at least two reasons: as a service to society and to develop audiences for their work. As for the latter, if you want to ask an audience to follow you down a path that is less familiar, especially into territory where the great questions are asked, you often need to spend extra time building a bridge between the work and that audience. Marketing and advertising accomplish part of this. But, those vehicles are typically unilateral; they send information in only one
direction. Rather, education and outreach are about dialogue, complexity, and exchange – between the institution and its public. They produce context around the work being done. "They build a habit of thinking critically and of valuing exchange. So this is where you will see cultural institutions offering opportunities to interact with performers, engage in master-classes, attend workshops, and other activities that deepen the experience with an artwork and the institution. At the same time, an institution must work through ongoing, generational efforts to cultivate the values of taking risk, of going into the theatre with an open heart and a critical mind. For this reason, cultural institutions want to offer opportunities for students and adults to not only better understand, but even participate in some of these forms. So, often times, cultural institutions will develop training programmes in the forms – music, dance, vocal – that are seen on its stage. “The education and outreach programmeme is not just about educating a student about a particular piece of art; it is also about creating a fabric of understanding between people and the institution. If this is done properly, not only is an institution providing a service, but it is developing an audience for generations to come.” Is this the only institution that is focusing so much on educational outreach? Or does every opera house around the globe have one? “Globally, arts education is a deeply challenged field. When economies depress, one of the first things to be cut is art spending, and in particular, education and outreach.
INTERVIEW
"Currently, there is a constriction worldwide on the availability of arts education, because governments, institutions, cities have run out of money. There really is a crisis on the availability of arts education and in such a time, it is very inspiring to see the institutional commitment of the Royal Opera House to the cause. I strongly believe that it is all due to the leadership shown by the Board of Directors, and by the dedicated staff here at ROHM.” Given the global economic crisis, what role do you think ROHM will play in multiplying effect on culture, especially in the region? “We have three primary ways of talking about the economic impact cultural institutions have on communities. One is through direct spending. So when a government or community develops a cultural institution, that institution spends directly to provide real jobs for real people: staff, construction workers, vendors who provide the institution services, etc. There is a direct, local economic benefit of moving money through the building into the hands of the real people. Then there is what we call indirect spending, which is when money that has crossed into the hands of staff or vendors is spent by them on buying groceries, paying their telephone bills, buying gifts, etc. "This creates a second level of economic activity that further supports and activates an economy, and when tax is paid on each of these activities, this returns revenue to the government to cover some of the original expenditure. And the third level of activity is induced activity, which is all of the increased spending that takes place around the institution because of its existence; people like
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to be around, and live around, and shop near, and spend time around a successful cultural institution. Successful institutions increase the value of a place. So when people move into or spend time in an area surrounding a cultural institution because of the quality of life it provides, this produces an induced impact – more money is spent in an area surrounding the institution and the people, city, and government around that area benefit. Property values increase, as do tax revenues; hotels increase occupancy; stores swell with visitors; restaurants have more patrons, etc. Everyone benefits. “Oman is entering into a year where it has been named as the cultural capital of the Arab world. The Royal Opera House should play a role in this. When you build something as beautiful as a Royal Opera House, you are not only developing a platform for global dialogue. You are enticing tourists to come spend money in this beautiful country.” “Hopefully, the Opera House, by the value and integrity and success of its work, will support the emergence of other similar institutions throughout the peninsula. The Opera House, together with other similar institutions, can and should create a network of increased cultural diversity and exchange and excitement, and send a signal to the world that the region is a cultural hub worth visiting. There’s no reason why we couldn’t see a ‘Muscat - Abu Dhabi Bahrain – Doha – Kuwait City’ cultural network along the same lines as of other cultural hubs like London - Brussels - Amsterdam, or Boston – New York – Washington DC, which are just a few hours away from each other. These
institutions support one another through collaboration, and even by sharing costs to develop or present new work.” Finally, how has coming to Oman has changed you as a person, professionally and personally? “Omanis are, without question, some of the warmest and most dignified people I have encountered anywhere in the world. The thing that truly stands out is that diplomacy is a way of life here. This is true among actions by Omanis on the world stage, but also in everyday life. For me, patient and respectful diplomacy is a basic fabric of Omani culture. "I have been endlessly impressed by the tact exhibited in every walk of life; whereas, in the West we may be more impatient and direct! Professionally, I would have to say that the most important challenge I face here is to work with the institution to develop vehicles for open dialogue with the community. It is an ongoing development and will take some time.”
Your favourite performance “You are putting me in a tight spot here! Because I have had access to Western culture for decades, I would say, for me, the most important performances are those of the Arab performers. To see Omar Sarmini, for instance, a classical tarab performer, explore with such sacred profundity a tradition unfamiliar to me, was very moving. I can say his was one of my favourite performances.”
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AUSTIN REED Available at Midriff City Centre,Dubai.
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CHANEL
Available at Chanel boutiques across UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon
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CHARLES AND KEITH Available at Muscat City Centre, Al Araimi Complex
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NINE WEST
Available at Muscat City Centre, Sabco Commercial Centre
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CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Available at Mall of Emirates, Saks Fifth Avenue, BurJuman Centre, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, UAE
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ECCO
Available at Muscat City Centre
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GAP
Available at Muscat City Centre
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JAEGER
Available at Wafi Mall, Mirdif City Centre Mall, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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KARL LAGERFELD’S ‘KARL’ Available on www.net-a-porter.com
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LACOSTE Available at City Centre, Dubai, UAE
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MANGO
Available at Muscat City Centre and Qurum City Centre
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MARKS & SPENCER Available at Muscat City Centre
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MOSCHINO
Available at Dubai Mall and Bloomingdales, Dubai, UAE
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SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Salvatore Ferragamo boutiques in the region are located in UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi), Bahrain, Kuwait, KSA (Riyadh, Jeddah & Khobar), Qatar, Lebanon and Jordan
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Swarovski AG 2012 Š
WWW.SWAROVSKI.COM
Megastore Ruwi Street: 24796161, Qurum: 24560419 khimjis@kr.om | www.kr.om | www.facebook.com/khimjiramdas | www.khimjiblog.kr.om | Toll-Free: 800-75000
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VERSACE
Versace boutiques in the region are located in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, KSA (Riyadh, Jeddah & Khobar), Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain
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YOUR GUIDE TO…
CONFESSIONS OF A SHOE-O-HOLIC
CAROL JOHNSON DISHES OUT SOME SOLE CURRY…
“Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.” - Marilyn Monroe The right pair of shoes will make you feel like a million dollars and can make an OK outfit look stunning. I love shoes because even on “fat” days they always fit and are less fattening than chocolate! FIT&STYLE: Try on as many pairs as possible as sizes vary with style. Your feet swell during the day so try on shoes later in the day. Try not to buy shoes that don’t fit well or are not comfortable. Adjustability is a plus. Look for laces, straps, or ties that can be loosened when the foot swells. And get remeasured yearly: Feet flatten and widen with age, pregnancy, and weight gain (if you slim down, your feet do, too). QUALITY AND COMFORT: Well-made shoes can last a lifetime, especially if not worm every day. Always buy the best you can afford. Make sure the material that your shoe is made of is flexible Most feet are low in fat, so they need padding to be happy. Use thin gel inserts for greater comfort, particularly under the ball of the foot on high heels. Ultra-thin bottoms are torture, so in case you feel your soles are too thin, you can also ask your shoe repair guy to add rubber soles.
QUANTITY: You can never have too many shoes. The more you have the less you will wear them out and the longer they will last. STORING THEM: Store your shoe in the boxes or shoes bags, or place them on shoes racks to prolong their life and avoid scuffs etc. When travelling always put shoes in a shoe bag. WHY DO WE NEED SHOES? We need shoes for different looks. Shoes need to match lifestyle and activity. High heels look great, but sometime flats are called for – so that means more shoes. Shoes out of favour can be put away and brought out to wear a few years later. The chances are they will fit and you will still like them. There are shoes to fit every occasion and mood, and the perfect shoe is easier to find than that elusive perfect outfit. Shoes complete the outifit. To Quote Coco Chanel, “A woman with good shoes is never ugly. They are the last touch of elegance.” MY FAVOURITES: Christian Louboutin Chanel LK Bennett Hobbs Kurt Geiger
Carol Johnson is a self-confessed shoe-o-holic and married with one grown up daughter who also loves shoes. .She has spent last 30 years as an expat in various parts of the Middle East, India and Africa, and has managed to buy shoes in every location. She is currently busy hunting for shoe bargains in Muscat, when she is not busy with WGO activities.
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ZARA
Available at Muscat City Centre
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THE STYLE FILES
SPRING FEST ROSEMIN MANJI GIVES US THE REPORT ON WHAT’S BURNING UP THE RAMPS THIS SEASON… Rosemin Manji is the founder of RR & Co. Bespoke Luxury Management that specialises in styling, media relations among other luxury services. Manji is also a regular on Studio One, Dubai TV as their fashion correspondent. She has contributed in Harpers Bazaar, Grazia and Esquire and has covered Atlantis Palm Dubai opening Red Carpet interviewing top International celebrities for MTV. Manji has been on Best Dressed list for Harpers Bazaar, Grazia, Pashion, Mondanite, Ahlan Masala. Her contribution to the fashion industry has been recognised by Arab News as Top 20 Business women in the Gulf and Ahlan Hot 100 List 2010 and 2011.
It’s that time of year again, where you start putting away those heavy coats and chunky sweaters. The leather goes to the back of your closet and your wardrobe becomes a riot of colours in soft fabrics and texture. Signature magazine takes a look a trends that you need to know about for this Spring/Summer. The Peplum Effect One of the common trends we saw on the runways was the “peplum” this is where the hips are accentuated and they can be worn with a simple tailored trouser or straight skirt. Some designers had softer versions which are more flattering like Celine and Armani and more bold styles were scene at rising star Jason Wu’s show and YSL. For a great high street deal, we found some great blouses at H&M and Topshop. Flower Power Fresh prints always dictate the season, last year Erdem and Stella McCartney owned the season with iconic prints that trickled down to the high street in
minutes. This season we see a common thread of Florals from Christopher Kane, Mary Katrantzou, and Rodarte. The paisley print was interpreted in a modern way in the collections of Stella McCartney and Jill Sander. Romancing the Lace On the romantic front, there was nothing more beautiful than the Louis Vuitton’s show ‘Le Carousel’ theme at Louvre’s Cour Carree that made everyone fall in love with fashion again. The delicate lace trend was spotted on the catwalks of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Valentino and Elie Saab to name a few. The lace came in all textures from delicate chantilly to brodarie anglise. The Sorbet Blend Finally, pastels tied all the romance and femininity together. Sorbet colours softened the runway and brought lightness to this season’s colour palette. From Chanel to Gabbana there was nothing more refreshing then the soft colours that welcome the spring season.
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IWC Portofino Chronograph Edition Laureus Sport for Good Foundation (For further details contact Khimji’s Watches, Shatti Al Qurum)
Omega Seamaster Woman (The James Bond 007 50th Anniversary Collector's Piece) (Available at Mistal, Darsait and Rivoli, Qurum City Centre and Muscat City Centre)
The 2012 Lange 1 Time Zone (A. Lange & SĂśhne) (Available at Le Carat, Sabco Commercial Centre)
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Perrelet Turbine Playing With Fire (Available at Gallery Argan outlets in the city)
BEAUTY
HUES OF SKY
From the break of dawn to the descent of twilight, skies reveal an enchanting array of hues with the arrival of Spring. Inspired by this brilliant seasonal change, Peter Philips, Creative Director of Chanel Makeup, infused glowing, sunlit colour into the Spring 2012 Makeup Collection, Harmonie De Printemps. Subtle gradations of rose, coral and peach sculpt the face, giving it a soft radiance, while rich garnets and vivid pinks dress the lips. Available at Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle Stores, Ruwi and Qurum
PULL UP YOUR SOCKS
YOUR GUIDE TO…
The other day as I was walking across the street, I saw a few boys stood near the pavement, almost rolling with laughter! Inquisitive enough, I went up to them and inquired what the joke was. Caught unawares, none of them spoke for a while and then I heard a faint voice from the back saying, “They are laughing at my socks.” Here was this short lad with high pants and the most bizarre little pair of socks on his feet! I could not resist a smile too, even as this ‘fashion-wise’ boy very confidently quipped: “It’s in fashion, Sir!” YSL said “Fashions fade but style is eternal.” Indeed, how true! Something as basic as a pair of socks can make a huge difference to the way you are perceived. So for all those who have been many a time confused on what colour of socks to wear on which attire, here are a few basic tips… THE RIGHT MATERIAL Socks are available in a variety of materials these days including natural cotton, synthetic wool blends, wool, polyester and blends of two or more of these materials. Choose a material that suits your personal tastes and is sensitive to your skin needs. Light, natural fiber socks are the best option if you reside in a warm and temperate climate. Try and go for materials that absorb sweat and that allow your feet to breathe like a blend of Merino wool and cotton. THICK & THIN OF IT The thickness of the fabric also matters. While, thin and natural fibre socks are recommended for warm climates, thicker socks made form synthetic fibres work best in cooler climes. Experiment with the thickness to arrive at your own personal preferences.
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SHAWN STEPHENS ON HOW TO COVER THE B&W ESSENTIALS The colour black is universal! You can wear black socks with black or dark grey trousers. Having a couple of variety of black socks in your wardrobe is never too much as it fits most occasions. White is for the sporty occasions! Always remember, the white sock is more of a casual wear and a complete no on formals! If you are hitting the gym, white is the way to go! THE MATCH CODE Choose the colour of your socks according to the trousers and not according to your shoes. If you are wearing brown trousers then brown socks it is and grey socks for grey trousers. Unless, you have a pair of beige trousers, then you can easily pull it off with a brown pair of socks to match your brown shoes. PRINTS ARE COOL Designer labels have been coming out with printed socks not only for women, but also for men. Trendy as it may be, there is still the match code to be followed. The more prominent colour in the sock pattern should match the trousers. So, if your pair of socks are brown with grey stripes then they will go well with brown trousers, but not grey! We know you are thinking, “does it really matter”! But then, remember the right pair of socks can brighten up your attire for the day! Fashion is not just about wearing things in vogue, it is also about choosing the style that suits you best. If you can invest in the right watch, shades, suit and tie, then why not walk that extra mile and make sure you pick up the right pair of socks as well!
YOUR FEET AND COVER THEM WELL…
Shawn Stephens is a PR professional and has worked on the teams that handled accounts like Dubai Film Festival, Christies, Art Dubai, Qatar Airways, The Hilton group, Adidas and Dior. He is seen quite often on the red carpet making show-stopping entrances at some of the most chic events and parties in Dubai and around the Middle East. He is currently Account Director with Z7 communications in Dubai, United Arab Emirates that handles Versace, TOD’s, TAG Heuer, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bonhams, JAMM art advisory, MRPORTER.COM, Net-a-Porter, THEOUTNET.COM and Hoss Intropia.
PREVIEW
TOWARDS EXCELLENCE Two high-profile events, the Oman Forum – Building National Talent and the AIWA Awards will throw light on new challenges and honour achievers respectively…
AIWA AWARDS FOR BEST PERFORMING COMPANIES The AIWA Awards are back. Come May, Oman will witness the most high profile event of its kind targeted primarily at the top echelons of the Arabic speaking business community in the Sultanate. Setting new benchmarks in the industry, corporates in Oman will be felicitated based on a highly qualitative performance survey done in a transparent manner as per the best international standards.
OMAN FORUM ON ‘BUILDING NATIONAL TALENT’ Expansion of educational infrastructure, skills development through training and creation of employment opportunities have been the cornerstone of the Sultanate’s impressive march on the path of progress under the dynamic leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. Apart from the strategic initiatives of the Government, the private sector has played a pivotal role in the development of national talent. However, among the key issues facing the Sultanate of Oman, the top challenge is to further build human talent to meet future strategic goals and lead the nation on the socio-economic development track. Oman Forum – Building National Talent, an initiative of Oman’s premier business magazine Alam alIktisaad Wal A’mal (AIWA), will bring together the government, private and public sector, workers’ community, academia, consultants and media on a single platform to debate on the state of education and training, youth employment policies and initiatives, identify talent gaps and challenges and create guidelines to set up the road map for the future.
To recognise the top achievers in Oman’s corporate world, Alam al-Iktisaad Wal A’mal (AIWA) has instituted Awards for Oman’s Best Performing Companies. Alam al-Iktisaad Wal A’mal (AIWA), published by United Media Services, is Oman’s leading Arabic monthly business magazine. This year marks the second edition of the AIWA Awards after the highly successful launch in 2011. In a red carpet awards evening, AIWA will felicitate the top performing listed companies in Oman during 2011. A networker’s dream, the event will be attended by the who’s who of Muscat corporate high life. The premium event will attract more than 250 top business leaders, CEOs and senior government officials from a cross-section of industries, ministries and government bodies. It will witness the congregation of the key decision-makers who are driving the country’s business and economy. A high-voltage entertainment show by renowned international troupes will make the attendees cherish the evening for a long time to come. The event will be organised under the patronage of Muscat Securities Market (MSM). Gulf Baader Capital Markets SAOC (GBCM) is the knowledge partner whereas KPMG is the audit partner for the ranking process used for the awards.
To be organised in April this year under the patronage of the Ministry of Manpower and in association with Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Oman Forum – Building National Talent has been supported by the Ministry of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Civil Services, Sultan Qaboos University and The Research Council (TRC). AhliBank, Voltamp and Omran are the Strategic Partners for the prestigious forum. KPMG is the Knowledge Partner whereas Times of Oman and Al Shabiba are the Media Partners for the event. The primary objective of the forum is to promote thought leadership by disseminating information on the subject and constructing innovative ideas for a wider participation of the Omani youth in the national building process and upliftment of the society.
(For more details on both events, contact Ahmed on 99356490.)
ALAM AL-IKTISAAD WAL A'MAL AWARDS Oman's Best Performing Companies
Overall 15 Top Ranking Companies will receive the coveted trophy. In addition, AIWA will also felicitate two prominent Omani nationals who have done the nation proud by excelling in the fields of business and economy. The AIWA Awards to the selected personalities will be made in two categories – AIWA Global Omani of the Year Award and AIWA Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, AIWA will also felicitate two companies for their immense contribution to the society and economy. They will be presented with the trophies for ‘Excellence in Corporate Leadership’.
ACCESSORIES
Leather it up!
Cuir Noir is the fourth in the series of Mille et une Nuits collection from Armani Prive. Signature speaks to its perfumer on the magic whiff… Perhaps it was this passion of hers that led her to discover and unravel the olfactory side of something as raw as leather in Armani Prive’s latest fragrance aptly called Cuir Noir (black leather). Part of ‘La Collection des Mille et une Nuits’, created to reveal the infinite splendours of the East, Cuir Noir is a new oriental adventure, an invitation into a world in which rarity and luxury are channelled into haute couture fragrances and pay homage to traditions. In this interview Nathalie talks about Cuir Noir and the curious use of leather in a fragrance…
“I try to blend fragrances with the brand values –it is a way of being, of creating with my soul and with my mind, as well as my nose,” says Nathalie Lorson. Nathalie grew up in Grasse where her father was a chemist at Roure. No wonder then, she developed a nose for different smells at an early age. After passing the bacca aureate, she chose to enter the perfumery school at Roure “to learn the real profession of fragrance creation and to gain an in-depth knowledge of the raw materials”. She recalls,“In1980, very few women entered the perfumery field.” Upon completion of her training, she joined the IFF. It was here that she signed off her first creation, Bulgari Pour Femme. The rest is history. Yet another turning point came for her when, at the age of 40 (year 2000) she joined Firmenich. Nathalie says she has always been guided by an open-mind and a search for harmony. She prefers, without hesitation, the pleasure of sharing and teamwork to achieving individual satisfaction. She is thrilled at the idea of ‘touching another’ with her creations. Nathalie’s olfactive style can be best described as harmonious and generous. Molecules, accords, new olfactive territories…She dreams of everything that has not yet been discovered.
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How would you describe Cuir Noir? “Cuir Noir is a leathery fragrance with woody and spicy accent. It celebrates the refinement and signature of some beautiful precious ingredients and takes us into a mysterious world of multiple textures and scents. After Mille et une Nuits collection of three successful perfumes, Cuir Noir is the fourth of the series. “Just like Oud Royal, Rose d’Arabie and Ambre Orient, Cuir Noir also depicts the perfumes and enchanted atmospheres of the extraordinary Mille et Une Nuits Tale. The fragrances are four cyprious and blooming dreams inspired by blue desert nights and by whispers seeping through ornate arabesque grilles. Cuir Noir is a journey into the heart of an Arabian night.” Could you tell us what are the essences and symbolic materials of this fragrance? “Leather, slightly honeyed by some Bulgarian Rose touches, is blended to the strength of some woody notes combining the creamy of the sandalwood from Australia to the darkness and smoky tonalities of the Oud and Gaiac woods. Irresistible spicy vibrations of coriander and nutmeg enhance this sensual woody dry down and add this addictive character and make of Cuir Noir a mesmerising fragrance. The dry down composed by vanilla pod absolute from Tahiti enhance the strength of benzoin Siam.” How do the ingredients make this perfume more precious?
“The exact choice of ingredients and their perfect balance give to the fragrances of the “Mille et une Nuits” Collection a unique identity. An accurate work happened to tame the exotic nature of noble and rebel ingredients, to ease the rudeness of gold and spices and to make fluid the smokes and resins. How did you manage to make use of leather in the olfactory sense? “Creation of Cuir Noir was a real moment of pleasure to me. I really loved the challenge of being able to bring into light the different facets of leather, to express its sensuality, its elegance and its mystery. I worked the note by using an innovative technique to capture the smell of leather: the headspace.” “We tried to recreate a fascinating atmosphere that allies in the tanneries the wild smell of tallow in the burned and tarry aromas of the black birch. Leather is a sensual material, most precious woods made it possible for me to interpret such a material into an olfactory way. The lightness of some skins and the matte beige flexibility of velvet leather make me think about a dense liquid, as beige as Baileys. Giorgio Armani, through Cuir Noir, symbolises a tactile, flexible and soft sensation of leather in which sensuality is profoundly anchored.”
HOW TO USE IT “I PARTICULARLY LIKE VAPOURISING IT INSIDE THE ELBOW AND ON THE INSIDE OF THE WRIST AND ON THE NECK.”
What essence does a material like leather evoke for you? “I think that leather a warm and protective material. Even if leather is often thought to be a masculine character, I think that it suits very well a feminine personality. It’s noble and sensual material that allies strength and character. I gladly associate it to luxury and artisanal art work. I love leather for its wild side. It’s a material we can’t easily tame. We need certain know-how and a long experience to work a leather piece and make out of it all its qualitative aspects. It’s also a living material that evolves with time and whose color gets
stronger. Leather evokes sensuality, intensity and timelessness.” Finally, knowing Armani/Privé, what does the Mille et une Nuits range of fragrances mean to you? “A thought of beautiful perfume work, with a parti pris! Armani/Privé always proposes beautiful raw materials and a beautiful story that transport you. I’ve been following this collection since it ever started and I am always pleased to discover new creations. Fragrances from this collection propose a journey into rich universes that make us dream.”
HOW TO PRESERVE IT “ESSENCES OF THIS SCENT PRESERVE THEIR INTENSITY IF YOU KEEP IN A COOL PLACE AWAY FROM LIGHT.” THE FRAGRANCE Cuir Noir opens with a prelude of creamy Australian Sandalwood and the accents of Rose essence. A hint of coriander and nutmeg sets off this combination. The heart of the fragrance is more textured, alternating tinges of leather and smoky notes of Oud and Guaiac. In the base, traces of Tahitian Vanilla absolute punctuate the deep glimmer of Benzoin balm. Cuir Noir is available at Harvey Nichols, Bloomingdales, Paris Gallery in Dubai and Saks Fifth Avenue in Bahrain
THE COLLECTION ‘La Collection des Mille et une Nuits’ is the first to celebrate legendary perfumery ingredients; ‘Les Eaux’ revive the scents of far-off places; Les 1001 Nuits is a journey inspired by Eastern legends. These Armani Privé fragrances have reinvented the identity of Haute Parfumerie. Oud Royal, Rose d’Arabie and Ambre Orient and Cuir Noir are four dreams inspired by blue desert nights and by whispers seeping through ornate arabesque grilles.
SIGNATURE HOMES
CRAFTED TO PERFECTION
We present two elegant selections from Home Centre for your living room and your bedroom‌
THE AURTHUR SOFA SET Old-world-charm that emanates warmth and class through its intricate floral patterns and luxurious fabrics is what makes this sofa set a must-have for your home. The set includes a threeseater sofa and 2 two-seater sofas.
Tip: Complete the look with an antique wall mirror and a decadent ornate lamp.
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THE RODNEY COLLECTION This is what we call Boudoir chic! This bedroom set comes complete with a bed, two nightstands, six-door wardrobe, as well as a dresser with mirror and stool.
1) Bed posts with round crystal-like décor add that extra glamour 2) The padded, faux leather headboard with tufted buttons provide the “chic” quotient
EVENT
GOLF CHALLENGE WAS HELD AT MUSCAT HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB AND SIGNATURE WAS THERE TO WITNESS IT. A REPORT
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he Texas Scramble is said to be one of the most popular tournament formats in golf and offers numerous formats for fun-loving golfers. All offer a combination of strategy, camaraderie, skill, and heartbreak and all are fun if played in the right spirit. And fun it was at the Qatar Airways Corporate Golf Challenge that was held at the Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club recently. This is the first time the five-star airline has organised such an event in the Sultanate. The event saw a record field of 108 golfers taking part in the Texas Scramble format to compete for some spectacular prizes such as four return tickets for two to any destinations that Qatar Airways flies to. The winners Kim Robinson, Dale Coombes, James McDonough and Frederik Rouyer turned the best result for the day and were handed over their return tickets by Ali Abdul Khaliq Ibrahim, Country Manager – Oman, Yemen & Muscat Call Center. Masanori Hayashi, Keiichi Inoue, Vishal Dhawan, Ashish Sood won PING Fairway woods for turning the second best results. Anabelle Tame, Alex Borges, Mat Stanton, David Frizel finished 3rd and went home with a pair of golf shoes, certificates and plaques. There were prizes galore from ones for the Nearest the Pin and Longest Drive to a Qatar Airways Raffle. If you thought the golfers had all the fun, think again! For the golf clinic, hosted by Qatar Airways for its non-golfing clients saw some amateurs turn into pro! All in all, it was a day full of serious sport that was followed by a light-hearted evening spent discussing the swings and the pars amid food and fun!
was media partner of the event
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SWINGIN’ SUCCESS
QATAR AIRWAYS CORPORATE
SIGNATURE PROMOTION
SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA KHIMJI’S WATCHES’ SUPER PROMOTION, WHICH IS ON TILL MARCH 11, IS TURNING OUT TO BE A GREAT SHOPPING FEST. A SIGNATURE REPORT
Boy! Do we have some good news! Our favourite store in town has a super promotion on some of its most popular products. What are we talking about? The answer is Khimji’s Watches promotion, which is on till March 11. Customers are being offered up to an incredible 70 per cent off on a range of premium watches, accessories, sunglasses, jewelry and, luxury phones. The promotion which is on in their stateof-the-art showroom located in Shatti Al Qurum is enticing savvy shoppers through the doors to marvel at the great bargains. There’s something for everyone in every price range and a vast array of styles. Many of the pieces which are part of the promotion are available at never before seen prices thus enabling shoppers to give themselves a much
needed treat or to surprise their loved ones with something special. Madhursinh Jesrani, General Manager of Khimji’s Watches said, “Our customers enjoy the best things in life and at Khimji’s Watches we are constantly working to ensure they get quality at affordable prices. Our super promotion is our way of bringing a dash of luxury to the people of Oman. We have never before offered such value for money. The store is awash with beautiful watches, sparkling accessories, jewels and trinkets of all kinds, and all at knockdown prices. Our great range of sunglasses is just the thing for the strong summer heat and our smart and sleek phones are sure to be a big hit.”
Khimji’s Watches is well known for its luxurious branded jewellery and diverse designs. Its skilled team spends time studying and sourcing some of the well-loved, sought after timepieces, jewellery and accessories on the market to suit the tastes of young and old. Given this, we know that this promotion is every shopper’s dream come true! Go grab yourself some of those coveted treasures that you will cherish forever!
The Khimji’s Watches showroom is located at Way No. 3036, Building No. 2825, Al Ufouq Building, Shatti Al Qurum, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. The showroom is open from 9am to 1pm and 4:30pm to 9pm.You can call on +968 24699173 or email at krwatchs@omantel.net.om
CAUSE
ANGELS INC. WHAT MAKES THE GREEN SAPPHIRE BALL SO UNIQUE? SIGNATURE MET UP WITH THE TEAM BEHIND THIS SPECTACULAR EVENT TO DISCOVER THE SECRET OF ITS SUCCESS
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here are two things that strike you instantly when you meet this group of women who form the committee of the popular Green Sapphire Ball; first is their free-flowing camaraderie and second is their unflinching passion for the cause. The present committee consists of Karen Green, Bridget Ganguly, Krupa Khimji, Tanu Bheda and Puja Khimji. Today in its fifth edition, the Green Sapphire Ball began as an initiative by Karen Green, a Muscatbased teacher and event manager, who decided to organise a gala and donate the proceeds to a charity. She joined hands with her friend, Bridget Ganguly, Convener – Indian Social Wing Muscat, and they went about enlisting the support of their friends and acquaintances. Says Karen, “I have orgainsed a lot of successful fashion shows for charity in the past and we were able to raise a lot of money as well. Once I started working, fashion shows took a backseat, but the desire to orgainse something spectacular that
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would give back to the society still remained. This is when the idea of a ball came up. A ball is something everyone would love to go to and if it is joined to a good cause, it would make for a great event. I approached Bridget with the idea and that was it. We have not looked back since.” Adds Bridget, “When Karen came to me with the idea, I knew it was something to get involved with. For me, the main pull was that this was for charity, a cause close to my heart as well!” Karen and Bridget both agree that the then Indian ambassador Anil Wadhwa was greatly instrumental in furthering their initiative. The ball was held at the Indian Embassy for four years in a row and it is only this year that it will see a change in venue with the ball being shifted to InterContinental Muscat’s sprawling gardens. How then does this all begin and end in a fairytale night? The answer is almost an echo as all five speak together: “It is the charity.” Karen adds, “We try and choose a different Omani charity every year. We began with Dar Al Atta'a and we have supported a lot of causes since then. This year we are focusing on raising funds for the Nizwa branch of the Al Noor Association for the Blind.” Bridget emphasises that the charity is the beginning and the end. “We are not here for publicity neither do we use this event as a launch
pad for promotions. It is something we do out of commitment and love.” The passion that one sees in Karen and Bridget is something that fuels the younger members as well. Along with the change of venue, this year the ball has also found a new creative push to it in the form of an innovative theme, yet again formed around the organisation they are supporting. From the artistically brailleencrypted invitation cards to the vibrant black and yellow theme, Krupa Khimji, who owns an events company, has left no stone unturned to make sure that everything is befitting a high profile evening. More than anything, it is teamwork that keeps this committee so focused on their objective. They all accept individual responsibilities, yet do not take decisions without consulting each other. Says Tanu Bheda, who joined the committee last year, and looks after the accounts, “I think what works best is that we consult each other on everything. We have good synergy and that’s very important.” Being involved with something so grand in nature has made each of them look at life differently. Has it changed them as a person? Says Krupa, “We orgainse an event on a certain
Tanu Bheda
Krupa Khimji
budget and have to exercise restraint in every aspect. It has made us realise the value of money and the importance of spending it wisely and on good causes.” Karen picks up on this thread and gets an assertive nod from Bridget, Tanu, Krupa and Puja when she says, “It is our passion. It is a common
Bridget Ganguly
Karen Green Puja Khimji
thread that binds us together. You grow together as a team and you value things so much more. Above all it makes you realise the importance of humility.” It is this humility that makes this band of women stand apart from the rest. They admit that it is not all fun organising such an event and slip ups happen. Puja, the newest member of the group,
sums it all up by saying, “In the end, it is all about the charity, not the slip ups.” The Green Sapphire Ball will be held on March 8, at 7pm at the Intercontinental Lawns, Muscat
is a media partner of the event
CARS
n i n 7 io 0 t 0 o M
BMW Z8 from The World Is Not Enough and Ford Thunderbird from Die Another Day
WE LOVE 007 AND WE ARE SURE SO DO YOU! THIS YEAR MARKS THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST EVER JAMES BOND FILM. TO COMMEMORATE THIS, THE NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM, BEAULIEU AND EON PRODUCTIONS HAVE OPENED TO THE PUBLIC A VERY SPECIAL EXHIBITION TITLED BOND IN MOTION…. 66
Skyfleet S570, Aston Martin DBS (2007) and Aston Martin Stunt Car from Casino Royale
AMC Hornet X from The Man With The Golden Gun
Aston Martin DB5 from Goldfinger and Thunderball
BMW R1200 Motorcycle from Tomorrow Never Dies
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his year is very special to any James Bond enthusiast as it marks the 50th anniversary of the first ever Bond film. It is a series that has since spawned 22 movies and with a 23rd in the works. To commemorate such a momentous occasion, the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu and EON Productions have opened to the public a very special exhibition titled Bond in Motion.
The exhibit features a whole range of vehicles, totalling 50, which have appeared in Bond films over the years including cars, boats, motorbikes, sleds, jets and many more. However in spite of all the sci-fi tech wizardry and gadgets in the movies it is the cars that have always taken centre-stage in the movies, with maybe the last two being the only real exceptions. As such, cars used in films starring Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig all feature in the exhibition, and there are a few record-breakers on display too including the Aston Martin DBS Stunt Car from Casino Royale.
Among the list of vehicles present, the most iconic one would have to be the 1964 Aston Martin DB5. It has made an appearance in no less than five films including Goldfinger, Thunderball, GoldenEye, a small appearance in Tomorrow Never Dies, and Casino Royale. In fact the DB5’s association with bond was so strong that it also made numerous cameo appearances in various movies as a silent homage the Bond films. The iconic Goldfinger DB5 featured ‘gadgets’ such as the pop out gun barrels behind the front indicators, the bullet shield behind the rear window and a three-way revolving front number plate showing "GOLD FINGER" or "JB007" or "BMT216A".
CARS
Osprey Hovercraft from Die Another Day
Tuk-Tuk Taxi from Octopussy and Little Nellie from You Only Live Twice
Perhaps the second most famous bond car ever, the Lotus Esprit S1 is also present at the exhibit. Nicknamed the "Wet Nelly", the white Esprit S1 was first driven by Roger Moore in "The Spy Who Loved Me". No less than six Esprits in both "actual car" and "shell" form were used during filming. The most spectacular and featurepacked one was the submersible, which was an actual working submersible using a Lotus Esprit body and was used to film the underwater sequence for the movie. Furthermore, another waterproof Esprit was modified for the sequence where the car is emerging from the water onto
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a beach filled with perplexed sunbathers, while a separate modified car was used for the transformation scene where the Lotus turns from a regular vehicle to an underwater submersible. While arguably the most boring looking of all the Bond cars, the BMW 750iL from Tomorrow Never Dies, blew us away with its gadgets and weaponry; and no true Bond exhibit would be complete without it. For starters, the car was equipped with a high voltage security system, Sunroof missiles, on board grenades, a wire cutter bonnet badge, bullet proof and fire-proof body, Smoke and tear gas jets in side trims and
self-inflating tires. And if that wasn’t enough, it could be remotely controlled via a special Ericsson cell phone. For the 20th film, Die Another Day, James Bond once again returned to his Aston Martin roots with the stunning V12 Vanquish. Included in its list of gadgets were front grille missiles, twin target-seeking shotguns in bonnet, spiked tyres, four heat seeking missiles, bulletproof windows and body and a thermal imaging system. Furthermore the car also features an adaptive camouflage which made it appears
Q Boat from The World Is Not Enough
Parahawk from The World Is Not Enough and Bombardier Ski-Doo from Die Another Day
Phantom lll Rolls-Royce from Goldfinger
Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II (1960) from A View To A Kill
Lotus Esprit 'Wet Nellie' from The Spy Who Loved Me
almost invisible to the naked eye at the touch of a button. Another clever homage to the original DB5 was the reintroduction of the ejector seat, but used here in a clever bit of improvisation by 007 to right the car when it had been flipped onto its roof. However, the most unique aspect of Die Another Day was the epic car chase between the diamond studded henchman, Zao, and Bond in his Vanquish played out across a frozen lake and inside the melting Ice Palace. Only this time Zao had a gadget-packed car of his own to bring to the table. In this case it was the stunning Jaguar XKR convertible. The Jag was also equipped
with an impressive arsenal including a rear mounted Gatling gun, door mounted missiles, mortars in boot, rockets in fascia grille, a hydraulic battering ram system and a thermal imaging system. Alongside these special cars, there are a host of treasures dating back to From Russia With Love including the elegant Fairey Huntress Speedboat, Goldfinger’s 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, the buzzing autogyro from You Only Live Twice and Octopussy’s screeching Acrostar Jet, the original villain Parahawk featured in The
World is Not Enough, the original SFX Cello Case Ski famously navigated by Timothy Dalton in The Living Daylights and many more including bikes, trikes, sleds and boats.
The Bond in Motion will run to December 2012 and can be seen as part of a visit to the whole Beaulieu attraction. For more information log on to http://www.beaulieu.co.uk
ART
INDELIBLE PIXELS Ahead of their much anticipated debut in Dubai, Sheikha Lulu Al-Sabah, founder of JAMM, answers Deepa Rajan’s questions on photographs, art et al
rigitte Bardot once said,“A photograph can be an instant of life captured for eternity that will never cease looking back at you.” Take a look at the works of French/Algerian photographer Michel Haddi and you will see what she means.
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art advisory founded in 2009 by Sheikha Lulu AlSabah and Lydia Limerick, chose this celebrated artist for their inaugural exhibition in Dubai. The exhibition, sponsored by HSBC Private Banking, will feature limited-edition prints from Michel’s Celebrity series, as well as limitededition prints from his recent series on the Youth of Morocco.
It is this magical quality that has made Michel a name to reckon with, revere, and be inspired by. Michel, one of the world’s leading fashion photographers, has worked in the industry for over 20 years. His editorial collaborations include Italian Vogue, French Vogue, British Vogue, Tatler, Vanity Fair, GQ and Allure, amongst others.
According to Sheikha Lulu, “When I think of fashion photographers, past and present, I think of names such as Cecil Beaton, Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, David Bailey, Helmut Newton and Mario Testino. Their works are now sold at galleries and at auction and viewed as art. We felt it was time to showcase the work of a fashion photographer from our own region. Being part Algerian, Michel Haddi represents the mix between East and West.”
It is no wonder then that JAMM, an independent
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The exhibition also marks the launch of a new venue space, Toby Arts, which is situated in close proximity to Al-Serkal Avenue where many of the top art galleries in Dubai are located. Toby Arts is a collaborative project between JAMM and Toby, the brand by Saudi fashion designer Hatem Alakeel. Signature spoke with Sheikha Lulu on the debut exhibition, photography and more… Why did JAMM choose Fashion Photographer Michel Haddi as a medium for its first foray into Dubai? Why was Dubai chosen as a location? “JAMM chose Michel Haddi for a number of reasons. As JAMM’s inaugural exhibition in Dubai will also mark the launch of Toby Art, we sought a medium that combines both fashion and art. Michel Haddi also embodies the mix
Sheikha Lulu Al-Sabah
Exhibiting photographs is one thing and trying to auction them, something different all together. How does a photograph become an authentic work of art and thus valuable? “There are many factors that make a photograph an authentic work of art. These include the subject matter, originality, mode of production, rarity, demand, as well as its historical, critical and social context. Vintage photographs by Irving Penn, for example, sell quite well at auction because of his masterful use of light, balance and composition. Penn stated that, “Photographing a cake can be art,” when he opened his studio in 1953. Due to his high standard in the field of photography, he established a reputation and his works are now viewed as valuable works of art. between East and West, which is an integral characteristic of our own brands. Dubai was chosen as a location because it is the hub of Middle Eastern art.” The event also marks the launch of a new venue space, Toby Arts, collaboration between Toby, the brand by Saudi fashion designer Hatem Alakeel, and JAMM. Can you tell us how this came about? “Hatem and I have been friends for over 15 years and have shared a passion for creativity in all its forms. We have great respect for each other’s work in our respective fields- fashion design and contemporary art, and felt it was time to collaborate on a project that will give us an opportunity to showcase what we are passionate about. Toby Arts is a space where creative minds can meet and ideas can be shared. It will be a platform for contemporary art, fashion and design.”
“Most would agree that photographs by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Hiroshi Sugimoto and Richard Avedon, for example, are authentic works or art. Fine art photography, which is an expression of the artist’s vision, differs from photojournalism and commercial photography, which provides visual support for stories. Of course there are overlaps whereby photographs that are commercial or photojournalistic in nature are also authentic works of art. In some cases, the line between a mediocre photograph and a photograph that is an authentic work of art is questionable and subjective.” Digital platforms are increasing becoming a useful medium for art experiments, especially in the photography industry. Given that, how does one identify fashion pictures as an art form? “The first ever fashion photography shoot
occurred 101 years ago when photographer Edward Steichen was ‘dared’ to promote fashion as a fine art and the resulting photographs, featuring gowns designed by couturier Paul Poirot, were published in Art et Décoration. These photographs did not simply illustrate the object but elevated it in a unique, stylistic way. Since then, there has been a number of extraordinary photographers- Cecil Beaton, Richard Avedon and Horst P. Horst to name a few- who had succeeded in elevating fashion photography into an art form. These esteemed fashion photographers of the past had used traditional methods of production, namely a manual camera and gelatin silver prints which, in the hierarchy of mediums, is viewed as having more intrinsic value than digital prints. “This poses a challenge to contemporary fashion photographers in the digital age. It may also explain why a 1951 Vogue cover photograph by Irving Penn sold for $28,750 at auction while a recent photograph by celebrity fashion photographer David LaChapelle only sold for $3,000. On the other hand, there are only a select number of fashion photographers that
ART have the talent and creative vision to elevate fashion photography into a fine art. Among the most famous today are photographers Patrick Demarchelier, Steven Meisel, Mario Testino, Peter Lingbergh and Annie Leibovitz. Photographs by such talents will very likely rise in value over time. Fashion pictures become an art form when they are beautiful, original and shot by an exceptional photographer, regardless of whether they are digital or otherwise.” If a picture is worth a thousand words, what do you think Michel Haddi’s photos say? “Michel Haddi’s Celebrity Series are quite intense and intimate, indicating a level of trust between the subject and photographer. In the photographs of Angelina Jolie, Isabella Rossellini, Kate Moss, Keanu Reeves, Denzel Washington and Nicholas Cage, the subject looks directly into the camera and into the eyes of the viewer. The result is so direct that it appears the subject is looking at you rather than the other way around. “Those usually being gawked at return the stare. In each of his photographs there is a sense of fun and defiance. The photographs of Jean-Paul Gautier, Marion Cotillard and Martin Scorsese stand out for their expression of high drama and their ability to capture the subjects in ways never seen before. Haddi’s Youth of Morocco series are equally bold and poetic. Some of the images, such as the boys on the beach, capture the innocence of youth while others portray their aspirations to emulate the West in fashion and style. In all of Michel Haddi’s photographs, the message is to be
yourself and to be free.” What’s next for JAMM? “JAMM will continue to host exhibitions in Dubai at Toby Arts. Our next auction in Kuwait will take place in November 2012.” What do you suggest that one should look out for while purchasing a photograph in an auction? Key things to look out for: The provenance. It is crucial to know the sales and acquisition history of the photograph. Essentially, where it originated from and the
hands it passed through prior to reaching auction. Price comparables. It is important to look at the prices of other works by the same artist in the same medium to determine the accuracy in pricing. The rarity. It is a must to know whether the photograph is unique or part of an edition. If the latter, then how large the edition is and what edition number it is. The condition of the photograph. It is important that the photograph is in excellent condition. Not bent, damaged or faded
Art Bytes Your favourite photograph “My favourite photograph was taken recently, after the birth of my second child. It is a photograph of my daughter holding her newborn little sister in her arms.” A photographer you admire “I admire Lee Miller (1907-1977). She was an established fashion and fine art photographer in Paris in the 1930s and 1940s. During the Second World War, she became an acclaimed war correspondent for Vogue covering events such as the London Blitz, the Liberation of Paris and the concentration camps at Buchenwald and Dachau. There is a famous picture of her in Hitler’s bathtub after Berlin was liberated.” A painting that you think could make a good photograph… “Any of Edgar Degas’ paintings of ballerinas would make a good photograph.”
The celebrity photographer Michel Haddi, one of the world’s leading fashion photographers, has worked in the industry for over 20 years. Whilst living in the US in the 1990s, Michel had the opportunity to photograph many high-profile celebrities, including Clint Eastwood, Martin Scorsese, David Bowie, Uma Thurman, Johnny Depp, Kate Moss and Angelina Jolie. The Michel Haddi exhibition will run from March 18 – March 31 at Toby Arts - Block 1, Warehouse 11, Al-Quoz, close to Al Serkal Avenue, Dubai. Timings: Sunday-Thursday from 11am – 6pm.
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A D D E D VA L U E .
OER is more than a business magazine… It is a communications partner that ensures that your brand message is not just delivered to the right audience – but delivered with tangible added value as well. It has evolved from one of Oman’s pioneering business publications into a channel that offers decision-makers insightful, reliable and up-to-date information. Champions larger social causes. And leverages collaboration to deliver impact far greater than traditional print advertising alone. OER, in its all new avatar, invites you to forge a partnership that adds real value to your engagement with Oman’s corporate community over multiple touchpoints. Log on to oeronline.com
ENLIGHTEN. ENABLE. ENGAGE.
DESIGN
WRITING ON THE WALL André C. Meyerhans delves into the depth of progressive and conservative aspects of Arabic calligraphy of characters, the ordering of the various parts, and harmony of proportions. Various scripts have been developed over the past hundreds of years. Each style has its specific rules and character. The beauty of these traditional writings lies not only in the visual harmony but also in the craftsmanship: the meticulous, artistic technique – not to mention the religious meaning of most of these verses. Not only old masters, but also living calligraphers create impressive works in the traditional styles. For example: the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat shows some fantastic younger works; Quriyat Castle is home to some older inscriptions used as decorative elements on doors. At the Beit al Quran in Bahrain, one can see numerous antique Qurans which document the traditional art of writing excellently. The Mihrab there, too, shows calligraphy in the classical style. The outside façade, on the other hand, displays a more modern interpretation of calligraphy: the in-situ cast letters still contain a religious meaning yet their typography follows a contemporary approach.
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any situations in life manifest two polarising positions: the conservative and the progressive. The two mindsets rarely harmonise. Yet, I would like to show with the example of ‘Arabic calligraphy’ that an opposing stand is imminent to appreciate and understand one’s preferred position fully. The rise of Arabic calligraphy as art is closely connected with the Islamic faith. Calligraphy was, and still is, considered a way to represent God by writing the words of the Holy Quran. The script itself receives its particular character because of mainly two reasons: 1) Written letters undergo a slight external change according to their position within a word while maintaining
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the essential parts of the characters unchanged and 2) There are no capital forms of letters. A line of Arabic suggests an evolving progress of the characters from right to left. The vertical shafts above nicely balance the open curves below, and the middle register induces a sense of harmony. The peculiarity that certain letters cannot be joined to their neighbours provides articulation. For writing, the Arabic calligrapher employs traditionally a reed pen, a so called Kalam. This feature produces a thick downstroke and a thin upstroke with an infinity of graduation in between. The line traced by a skilled calligrapher is a true marvel of fluidity and sensitive inflection, communicating the very action of the master’s hand. Arabic calligraphy, thus, is the art of beautiful or elegant handwriting as exhibited by the correct formation
A key component of calligraphy are the words and more so the meaning of the words. Contemporary calligraphers have various reasons to detach their works from the – dominantly religious – meanings and move the actual graphics into the center of attention. Freeing the letters from their connotation opens them for inspiration and interpretation. Bahraini artists Jamal Abdul Rahim and Abdul Elah Al Arab develop their calligraphy along the traditional structures of the letters yet vacate them from any direct meaning. The scripts become structures; literate emblems that encourage to be loaded and interpreted by the viewer, thus, making calligraphy also accessible to people unfamiliar to the Arabic language. Omani artist Saleh Al Shukairi
made an interesting development in his young career: while earlier works still show text-like compositions, more recent works focus only on graphics of individual letters respectively graphics generated through arrangements of isolated letters. By doing so, he offers the viewers to experience the pure letters with a “pictorial eye” rather than with a reading one. These new composers provide a contemporary makeover to calligraphy by using the subtleties of Arabic letters to create something new within the old classical rules. In this way, they free the art of beautiful writing from the rigid and conservative principles as well as from the religious meaning of old scripts. The abstract form takes on its own meaning and gives a unique perspective to these letters; experience that cannot be pinned down in words. Why is contemporary calligraphy important
to the traditional and the traditional essential for the contemporary? The traditional writing is the custodian of conventions. It ensures that classical rules of harmony in Arabic calligraphy are understood in this and the following generations. It links the art of writing to its roots and the sophistication of workmanship. Contemporary calligraphy, on the other hand, unveils the potential of this art form in today’s world. It opens up dialogues and questions existing thinking. It brings life to something that is otherwise fossilised. Contemporary calligraphy shows the Zeitgeist; it is development – which is the nature of culture and society. While preferences and likings are subjective, conservative and progressive forms can be respected equally. Space should be left for both to flourish as only with this tolerance and coexistence, the two are complete
André C. Meyerhans is a Swiss architect who lives and works in Dubai, UAE. His creations range from 250’000m2-urban plans and onebillion-US-dollar mixed use developments to furniture-like objects, art and jewellery. André has also written for various trade magazines and held lectures in numerous institutions on architecture and design. He is also a regular guest critique at the Architectural Department of the American University in Sharjah. For more details you can visit www.acmeyerhans.com
LISTEN
AMP UP! MADONNA’S BACK, SO IS BONNIE RAITT, WE BELIEVE THAT THIS MONTH’S MUSIC CHARTS ARE GOING TO ROCK TO THE BACK AND BEYOND OF THE UNIVERSE! CRACKS IN MR. PERFECT
Ne-Yo Ne-Yo’s fifth studio album is based on how even a celebrity or a presumably “perfect” man tends to make mistake because, no matter how big a star he is, he is a human being first.
With the release of her 19th album, Bonnie Raitt is starting anew. The album marks her return to studio recording after seven years; it's coming out as the launch of her own label, Redwing Records.
UNDERRATED Bow Wow
MDNA Madonna
This is the seventh studio album by the American hip hop artist. The albums’ lead single has already topped the billboard charts right after its release in 2011.
Talk of spectacular comebacks! Madonna is back with her 12th studio album Such has been the hype that in less than a week after she revealed the stunning cover art, the deluxe edition of her new album had reached No.1 on iTunes!
TRAVELLER Anoushka Shankar
GLASSHEART Leona Lewis
It goes without saying that Anoushka is a virtuoso sitar player and she is bound to mesmerise us with her soulful and melodious music as always. The album is releasing under the prestigious record label Deutsche Grammophon.
This third studio album by British singer/songwriter has already had its share of controversies and stardom even before its release. Its debut single has already been called the ‘hot shot debut’ on the US billboard charts.
TRESPASSING Adam Lambert This is the singer’s second studio album. With collaborations that include Bruno Mars and Katy Perry, this album’s bound to rock the music charts this year.
FORTUNE Chris Brown His fifth studio album will serve as Brown’s debut release with RCA Records, following the disbandment of Jive Records in October 2011. The album boasts impressive collaborators ( Wiz Khalifa, will.i.am, David Guetta, Asher Roth, Kid Sister and Nas)
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SLIPSTREAM Bonnie Raitt
NIGHT THE SUN CAME UP Dev Mainly an electro-pop and dance album, it incorporates elements of several musical genres such as dubstep, urban, and rock. The songs are mostly inspired by Dev’s life stories over the past few years.
STATE OF TRANCE 2012 Armin Van Buuren The God of trance is back with his annual compilation; a series going strong since 2004, winning several IDMA awards for ‘Best Full Length DJ Mix’. For 2012, Armin has found the perfect balance and track selection. From tracks produced especially for the ASOT series to new found gems from the upcoming league of dance producers.
WATCH
ENTERTAINMENT
QUOTIENT
FROM DR. SEUSS TO PERSEUS, MARCH IS HIGH ON REEL MAGIC LIKE NEVER BEFORE… Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax
Jeff who Lives at Home
Being Flynn
Detachment
Silent House
Mirror Mirror
Friends with Kids
Goon
The film is a daring comedy about a close-knit circle of friends at that moment in life when children arrive and everything changes forever. The last two singles in the group observe the effect that kids have on their friends' relationships and wonder if this is what they actually want.
The sports comedy stars Sean William Scott as Doug Glatt, a slacker from a rich family who discovers he has a knack for fighting hockey goons. He gets dragged into a game by his best friend and ends up smashing the toughest player of the opposite team.
21 Jump Street
Wrath of the Titans
From the creators of Despecible Me and the imagination of Dr Seuss comes yet another fun filled animation, in 3D-CG. It follows the journey of a 12year-old boy who is searching for that one thing that would enable him to win the love of his life and live ‘happily ever after’. Look forward to the voice talents of Zac Efron and Danny DeVito!
Based on a true story, the film revolves around the delicate relationship that a son and father share. The story is about how a father returns to his son’s life after a long absence amidst the loss of his mother. Another fine performance from Robert De Niro, we are sure!
The movie is an unsettling horror thriller starring Elizabeth Olsen as Sarah, a young woman who finds herself sealed inside her family's secluded lake house. With no contact to the outside world, and no way out, panic turns to terror as events become increasingly ominous in and around the house.
In this action-comedy, Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum) are more than willing to leave their adolescent problems behind and join the police force and go undercover in a local high school to investigate and break a dangerous drug ring.
Starring Jason Segel as the protagonist of the story, the film is a light hearted comedy that deals with basic survival instincts and family bonding. Jason, who still lives with his mother and spends most of his time smoking pot, is trying to understand his own fate and where his life is headed.
The long-awaited film is finally up for release This movie revolves around Henry(Adrien Brody) who is a substitute teacher, who never stays in one place for too long so as to not build any bond with his students and colleagues.
A fairytale of all times, with nuances of spirited adventure comedy filled with jealousy, romance and betrayal that will capture the imagination of audiences the world over, this story is all that and much more!
Perseus returns! A decade after his heroic defeat of the monstrous Kraken, Perseus (Sam Worthington) – the demigod son of Zeus (Liam Neeson) – is attempting to live a quieter life as a village fisherman and the sole parent to his 10-year-old son, Helius. Meanwhile, a struggle for supremacy rages between the gods and the Titans.
TAKE10
The Hate Meter
1) Simon Cowell
Can anyone be more atrociously annoying than this one! A well-known TV personality, Simon has made a career out of nastiness. If only Simon could use his talent as constructively, especially when he is considered to be one of the most influential people on the telly! A blatant critic of his contestants on his reality shows, we’d like to be as brutal as Mr Iron Pants himself as say ‘Sir, being honest is one thing, hurting people’s feelings is another. What’s more Mr Cowell, you’ve got blood on your hands, remember the American Idol contestant, who committed suicide? Tch, tch!’
They are famous, talented and they are living the life we might want to lead (minus the various addiction centre trips!) Yet, they can be very annoying and almost exasperating to a point where all you want to do is spank them into getting a reality check! Here are 10 celebs we love to hate with a passion!
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2) Paris Hilton
Where does one begin with this potential Hilton heiress and her handbag puppy? Ms Hiltion is what they call the ‘celebutante’, the celebrity who rises to fame not because of their talent or work, but because of their inherited wealth and controversial lifestyle. As a result of several legal incidents, Hilton served a widely publicised sentence in a Los Angeles County jail in 2007. Apart from filming tapes of dubious nature, Miss ‘I-am-your-worst-celeb-nightmare’ mostly jet-sets and dabbles in reality shows starring, you guessed it, her! If only she knew to put her money where her mouth is! We still live in hope…
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This one is yet another Disney nightmare! We are not quite sure if it’s her gawky voice or her weird ‘acting’ skills that has made ‘Hannah Montana’ so popular. She has got so much merchandise to herself that it could put Disney itself to shame! What’s more is over the recent years, Ms ‘I can sing, I’m so cool’ has sprouted certain adult wings and acts anything but her age. No offence, Ms Cyrus, but we really do think there is no harm in a 19-year-old acting like one! While you are at it, will you please consider a wardrobe makeover as well?! Erm…We think you are still too young for those garters!
4) Lindsay Lohan
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3) Miley Cyrus
Welcome to the ‘Freaky Every Day Show’ with Lindsay Lohan! We must admit we found her cute as a button in The Parent Trap. Of course, everything went downhill from there! And when Ms Lohan crossed over from being an affable little child to an annoying in-your-face troublesome celebrity, we will never know. She knows how to keep herself in the limelight for all the wrong reasons. Be it for her infamous brawl with her father or being accused of shoplifting, Ms Lohan has done it all! We so miss the sweet little innocent girl who made her debut with a famous Disney series. Someone get her back please!
8) Tiger woods
5 5) Kim Kardashian
Let’s be honest! She was never going to be a charmer! But, she did manage to keep us entertained for a while. The Oscar for the 'Best Marriage Scene' goes to Kim! And if there was a Guinness Record for the 'Most Lucrative Wedding' ever, that would also be in Ms Kardashian’s kitty! But then with Paris Hilton for a friend (we do not know the current status of this alleged friendship) we would not expect much from this socialite-turned-TV star. Keeping up with the shenanigans this Kardashian is utterly impossible!
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9) Jeremy Clarkson
6) Justin Bieber Is he not9 the most annoying 17-year-old ever?! Or is he 18 now? Either ways, no offence to this accidental genius, we could not care less! What’s it with fans wanting to kill Selena Gomez for dating him? We agree, Selena’s man choice is crappy, but hey a woman is allowed to make her mistakes! Beiber’s success is a story that will be taught as part of marketing courses as a phemomenon known only to the YouTube generation! How this kid, who seems to be still struggling with his testosterones and estrogens, has become the most influential in the social networking sphere than Barack Obama and The Dalai Lama, is anyone’s guess. Go figure!
7) Kanye West
This man has some serious guts. There's no denying that he is a talented rapper and producer, but his ego is so big we wonder where he gets it all from. His comments on himself being the ‘God’ (Seriously?!) of rap and hip hop and his public encounter with Taylor Swift at a recent music award ceremony has surely marred his image for good! Now, mind you the ‘God’ is no stranger to controversy. From his controversial statements at a hurricane relief function to his controversial Rolling Stone cover, Mr West’s comments seem to always see him go up the apology street!
Talk about having swingin’ times! This one came as a real surprise. It took one small mistake for this golf legend to go from being one of the most commendable sports superstars to one of the least favourite man! He ain’t getting the 'Husband of the Year' award anytime soon! Now, we were all heart for this golfer who played his game with passion. But, playing the field, especially when you are a married man; now that is unforgivable! The rumours of brawls and other such incidents have not worked that well for this pro either.These are handicaps you can do without Mr Woods!
We wish he’d stick to talking about cars! But then Jeremy Clarkson’s motor mouth malaise seems to be increasing by the day! We have always been a fan (admittedly so!) of his opinionated but humorous tonguein-cheek writing and presenting style, which has often generated much public reaction to his viewpoints. But, sometimes Mr Clarkson, you do lose the sight of the road and sidetrack a bit. And we know for a fact the Indians are still not very amused over your toilet humour!
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10) Brad Pitt 9
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What! Hate Brad Pitt? Surely, it must be a punishable offence in some nation? Oh, wait it is illegal in Brangelina land! We are fans of the work he does, promoting world peace and all that! But, frankly a man who leaves his wife for another woman is not our idea of a hero! Moreover, he goes and gets married to a woman with a macho man complex. Now, what’s up with that Mr Pitt? We know you are a family man and all that, but don’t you think Angelina wears the pants in that household? Nevertheless, we still have hopes for Mr Pitt, he might yet conquer his Achilles heel and learn a thing or two from his buddy George Clooney!
The woman who can create her own job is the woman who will win fame and fortune. -Amelia Earhart
Celebrating Arab Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day in one issue, 8LI ;SQER WEPYXIW XLI LMKL ÂMIVW
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