VAMP Magazine Issue 38

38 VAMP MAGAZINE – APRIL – 2019

THE SPRING_19 ISSUE

An interview with NYC based visual Artist David Paul Kay Pg.34

(quote of the issue)

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.

When I let go of what I have, I recieve what I need.

– Tao De Ching

Q+A

VAMP SITS WITH “REAL ESTATE PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR” PG. 52

++++ > 043. MAXED OUT > 064. KAWA KAWA HOUSE > 080. CAPTURING THE ETHEREAL LUMINOSITY OF INDIA > 029. CITY SLICK > 050. Q+A : NENA KAY > 022. MFW: THE SCOOP > 071. DREAM TREE HOUSES > 090. PLATE IT UP > 016. FASHION REVOLUTION > 100. BEAUTY: SPOIL YOURSELF ++++

And so to bed… Hästens is here Hästens, the bespoke bed that takes four tradesmen more than 350 hours to handcraft, has arrived in Malta with the promise to provide the best rest you can only dream of. You can now visit the Hästens Sleep Spa in Birkirkara.

Form, the local company renowned for its own luxurious mattresses, has just opened a dedicated showroom for Hästens in Valley Road, Birkirkara, selling beds famed for their horsetail hair stuffing, blue and white check pattern, and six figure price tags.

Hästens country manager Domenico Capobianco said the allure behind opening in Malta was that the island had, more and more, become an interesting market for all the prestigious furniture brands and Hästens had been missing.

Known as the Ferraris of the mattress world, Hästens is the chosen brand by the Swedish royal family and it recently made waves after it emerged that the world’s largest luxury cruise ship suite — the Regent Suite on the Seven Seas Splendor — will feature the Hästens’ most luxurious Vividus bed that costs €145,000.

But you don’t need to be a millionaire to invest in a bed that frees you from the shackles of fatigue and the starting price for a Hästens bed is €4,000, which when you think that this will last you for the rest of your life it amounts to the cost of an espresso a day.

The advantage is that although the bed comes with a 25-year guarantee, nobody really knows how long a Hästens bed can last and the company has even stumbled upon one which has been used for over 90 years.

The Swedish bedmaker, which has been perfecting its craft since 1852, gives the assurance that its beds can change three-thirds of your life: the one-third when you are sleeping; and the two-thirds when you are feeling refreshed and awake from a good night’s sleep.

Their philosophy is a simple and undisputed one — a good night’s sleep is the human body’s way of self-rejuvenating, mentally and physically.

Without the ability to properly and thoroughly reset night after night, both the mind and the body will suffer.

According to Mr Capobianco, the only key that unlocked the bank vault was the conviction that a Hästens bed was a one-off investment to

capture the overall benefits that come from a perfect night’s sleep.

Form, which has been supplying quality mattresses and beds since its inception in 1947, felt bringing Hästens to Malta was taking their legacy to another level.

Form sales manager Julian Galea said: “Once we were properly introduced to the Hästens world we were totally transformed. At Form, we have always maintained that a good mattress is one that provides proper body alignment, combined with comfort and other benefits related to health and hygiene. Hästens delivers all this and much more.”

The finest natural materials are used creating layers of organic components. There’s cotton (for coolness, ventilation), wool (natural insulation properties) and flax (diverting static electricity), as well as thousands upon thousands of fine, curly (and disinfected) strands of horsehair, which behave like tiny springs to fend off moisture and assist in ventilation.

“It is amazing that in 2019 you can still find a global brand in a highly developed country, which does it all by hand with no rush to speed up production. Each bed only leaves once it is perfect,” Mr Galea said.

Visit Hästens on Valley Road, Birkirkara.

If that wasn’t enough inspiration for this season’s looks, be sure to turn to our ‘Style Files’. Get ready to turn to pastel colour palettes and dare to add some frill, floral patterns and polka dots!

For more inspiration photographers Bernard Polidano and Mark Soler capture highlights from Milan Fashion Week AW19 with the lens on upcoming Chinese fashion designers.

to discover the works of Waswo X. Waswo and Rajesh Soni in a studio in Rajasthan. On the architecture and design front VAMP sits with ‘Real Estate Personality of the Year,’ Robbie Antonio, to talk about the revolutionary business of prefabricated structures that are gaining popularity. Get inspiration from this issue’s Interior Files that feature some abstract and minimalistic touches to add to your space.

Our travels continue - HERBST Architects take us across the globe to the Kawakawa House in Piha, a volcanic sand surf beach on the west coast of Aukland. We then travel back via Kathmandu, Nepal where we celebrated the Festival of Lights and back to Europe to live it up in dream-like tree house vacation spots!

April is synonymous with Fashion Revolution Week, a campaign challenging brands to be more sustainable and transparent. We get the lowdown on the uprising of the Sustainable Revolution.

Springtime also presents a new culinary season and availability of produce and The Corinithia Palace does it again; tantalising our taste buds and arousing each of our senses with their mouth-watering dishes you must try!

Entranced with the works of visual artist David Paul Kay in NYC, we then set off on a journey

Grab yourself a coffee and dig in to this vibrant and rousing issue.

Creative Director Chris Psaila

Matthew B Spiteri Niranjan Shrestha Patrick Reynolds Suzana Simijanovic Tonio Lombardi

Contributing Editor Hannah Cremona

Stylist Nena Kay

Photographers Bernard Polidano Diana Kei Mark Soler

Sales Manager Sam Psaila 7788 0300

Editorial VAMP Editorial Team

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Sales Keeley Bajada 9996 0446

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Contributors Chris Briffa Claire Giordmaina David Paul Kay Dayna Clarke HERBST Architects Hannah Cremona Jonathan Zammit Mark McBride Nena Kay Noticed Model – Management

Robbie Antonio Rossella E. Frigerio Rox Delgado Tamara Fenech This magazine is published by [ V ] Publications also publishers of Served Magazine + / The Malta Artpaper

Music Noble by Guerlain available at Franks.

Spring is in full blossom and welcome to this 38th issue of VAMP packed with jovial colour palettes and inspiring works from around the world. Get some stylish vintage chic inspiration from this issue’s photo shoot styled by Nena Kay and shot by Matthew B. Spiteri in the gorgeous vintage setting of the Inquisitor’s Palace, Birgu.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved.

Dates, information and prices are believed to be correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions.

Neither the editor nor the publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that the organisations and firms mentioned are reputable. The editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfill their obligations under all circumstances. Copyright 2019 facebook.com/ vampmagazine malta

Fashion / Culture / Art + Design / Architecture / Cuisine / Travel

016. A SUSTAINABLE REVOLUTION

Tamara Fenech gives us insight on The Fashion Revolution.

018. STYLE FILE - SPRING BLOSSOM

Add soft spring pastel palettes to your wardrobe with touches of frill and polka dots

022. THE SCOOP ON - MILAN FASHION WEEK AW19

Through the lens of photographers Bernard Polidano and Mark Soler

029. CITY SLICK

Stylist Rox Delgado and Photographer Diana Kei capture masculine street looks

034. SIMPLE COMPLEXITY

An interview with visual artist David Paul Kay

043. MAXED OUT

Style inspiration with a play on vintage and chic

050. Q+A_NENA KAY

086. FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

052. Q+A_ROBBIE ANTONIO REVOLUTION PRECRAFTED

090. PLATE IT UP

Model Nena Kay moves behind the lens to style this month’s fashion shoot

VAMP Meets ‘Real Estate Personality of the Year’ Robbie Antonio to talk prefabrication

063. MINIMALISM

An eccentric interior collection of shapes and slanted lines that are both abstract in shape and minimalist in style

064. KAWA KAWA HOUSE

HERBST Architects take us to Auckland, NZ and get immersed in nature

Hannah Cremona takes us to the Himalayas and describes an entrancing 5-day festival in Nepal

Tantalising, fresh and in-season recipes by The Corinthia Palace

090. REVIEW: KEVIN NAUDI

Malta’s favourite comedian makes stand up history

100. SPOIL YOURSELF

All the beauty products and services you need for a perfect start to spring

071. LIVE IT UP

Dayna Clarke explores dream-like tree house vacation spots across Europe

080. CAPTURING THE ETHEREAL LUMINOSITY OF INDIA Rosella E. Frigero uncovers the marvellous works of Waswo X, a studio in Rajasthan

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NEWS

SPRING ‘19 UPDATE

GORDON’S PINK Inspired by an original Gordon’s recipe from the 1880s, Gordon’s Pink is perfectly crafted to balance the refreshing taste of Gordon’s with the natural sweetness of raspberries and strawberries, with the tang of redcurrant served up in a unique blushing tone. Made using only natural fruit flavours to guarantee the highest quality real berry taste.

INVICTUS LEGEND Treading through a dusty scorching desert and achieving the ultimate challenge, Paco Rabanne presents Invictus Legend. Aldehyde geranium and aromatic laurel sizzle with sharp spices over a base of ultraaddictive honey in a whirlwind of guaiac wood and red amber.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery Ltd.

POLO RALPH LAUREN OPENS ITS FIRST STORE IN MALTA Ralph Lauren Corporation announces the opening of its first Polo Ralph Lauren store in The Point Shopping Mall, Sliema. The new store represents the classic yet spirited American style, for which Polo Ralph Lauren is recognized throughout the world. It will include both women’s wear and men’s wear Polo collections. The Polo Ralph Lauren store is operated by the Bortex Group franchise.

SERVED.COM.MT – ITS HERE AND ITS AWESOME Find hundreds of recipes to enjoy at the touch of a button

Scan to visit website

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DOLCE & GABBANA The Only One fragrance gets its sequel in the form of the new edition of the Only One 2 with Emilia Clarke as the face of the ad campaign. The new fragrance introduces a scent of powdery rose and violet with a sweet coffee note. The composition symbolizes the scent of love, seduction and lust, presented with a bottle in ruby red colour. The Only One 2 is available from leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

NEWS

GET AROUND WITH MEDASIA CABS MedAsia Cabs is the easiest and most economical way to get around Malta! Download the app (Apple store or Google Play) and at the tap of a button your driver will be at your location. Visit www.medasiacabs.com

1 MILLION + LADY MILLION LUCKY Paco Rabanne presents two fragrances for him and for her. 1 Million Lucky, an intoxicating powerful blend, starts out fresh then moves into a spicy leather accord. Lady Million Lucky is dangerously sexy, with a trail of white flowers that awakes the skin with fresh notes and exudes an intimate woody warmth. Exclusively distributed by Ta Xbiex Perfumery Ltd

VAMP.COM.MT VAMP Magaizine is also online, helping you find what you need quickly and easily! Browse through thousands of curated international fashion, design, art and travel articles, along with brilliant recipes, high profile interviews + much more. Nothing is left unrevealed.

THE BED OF YOUR DREAMS ARRIVES IN MALTA Hästens is the bespoke and long-lasting handcrafted bed that promises to provide the best rest you can only dream of.

Hästens comes with a 25-year guarantee but it may last even longer! Capture the overall benefits that come from a perfect night’s sleep in a one-off in-vestment. Visit the showroom at Form, Valley Road Birkikara.

RENAULT CAPTUR - EASY LIFE Now starting from €14,900 (including scrappage scheme), Renault now offers three trims to choose from: Play, Iconic, and the GT Line. Easy Life Personalization possibilities have been extended with two new body colours, meaning you can choose from +30 colour combinations! Visit www.autosales.com.mt or Kind’s Renault showroom for further information.

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STYLE FILE

A Sustainable Fashion Revolution: Understanding Our Consumer Power.

TAMARA FENECH HIGHLIGHTS ‘SUSTAINABLE CREDIBILITY’ IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY’S PREDICTIONS AND EXPLAINS THE MESSAGE BEHIND THE FASHION REVOLUTION. WILL YOU JOIN AND ASK #WHOMADEMYCLOTHES?

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n the report ‘The State of Fashion 2018’ published by The Business of Fashion, predictions on the industry’s collective developments and trends for the year were announced.

Amongst those predictions was the ‘Sustainability Credibility’ trend whereby it explains “sustainability will evolve to be an integral part of the planning system where circular economy principles are embedded throughout the value chain.”

I won’t go into detail about the circular economy; I will leave that for another time. On the whole, however it is safe to say that the forecast was indeed correct. 2018 proved to be the year that a wide range of fashion brands and companies of all sizes and segments collectively began to engage in more sustainable conversations, implement more action plans and commit to more sustainable strategies. Intidex, the company owning brands like Zara and Oysho, launched their Join Life initiative for example, creating collections that specifically focus on more sustainable ways of producing fashion.

The Join Life collections essentially provide better material choices, safer processing and production methods and more.

Having studied and worked in the field of sustainable fashion for the last 6 years, I tend to totally nerd out on the subject. So you can imagine how exciting last year was for others in the field and myself. To finally see brands like Zara engage in and step up to the crucial sustainable fashion topics by creating awareness

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As exciting as last year was for us sustainable fashionistas, I believe it is important to acknowledge and understand the build up towards the ‘sustainable credibility’ trend. Like all other trends, it ultimately doesn’t come from nowhere. While the fashion industry-at-large is only just recognising the dire importance of sustainability within the industry, there have been groups of pioneers fighting this fight for well over a decade now.

and making information available to the masses, is fantastic. Due to the very nature of the fast fashion model that brands like Zara work with, many may disagree with me. It is fundamentally disposable and wasteful, which to this I would agree – fashion should never be a disposable and value-less commodity. However, it is also evident that the easily accessible fashion industry of today’s world is not going away any time soon. On the contrary, it is actually becoming even more accessible than ever before, reaching wider audiences at much faster speeds. So if we consider this, I truly believe that the primary strategy needed to fill the sustainable fashion gap in the mass market, is to stand by the motto, ‘meet consumers where they are’ - which is at brands like Zara.

One organisation that has been particularly successful in creating the right awareness and buzz around the issues is Fashion Revolution.

Launching back in 2015, following the collapse of the Rana Plaza garment factory in Bangladesh, which killed nearly 2000 workers. With the aim to disrupt the current fashion industry and its working model, Fashion Revolution’s main call is to demand transparency from the industry, on social and environmental levels.

Fashion Revolution has gathered a following of over 200k, with their impacts and out-reach rapidly increasing annually, clearly igniting a global movement that is here to stay.

In creating a unique and creative yet simple campaign that demands for transparency, Fashion Revolution primarily target consumers.

Strategically planned to achieve their goals through the power of social media, the aim is to empower consumers to understand our potential influence on fashion brands and how we can affect the products produced through the choices we make. In other words, working with the simple supply and demand theory. If

STYLE FILE

we as consumers demand it, they as producers will supply it. The Zara Join Life initiative is in fact the perfect example of this.

The main Fashion Revolution campaign message encourages consumers to ask one question: “Who Made My Clothes?” When asked this simple question however, it tends to be rather complex as its answer is more often than not, unknown. The simplicity, however, is enough to get consumers to think about the human hands behind the making of our t-shirts or dresses, and the journeys they went through to actually get into our wardrobes! When asking this question, firstly to ourselves and then, posing it onto our favourite brands, though the hash tag #WhoMadeMyClothes we, as consumers, are collectively able to put the right amount of pressure that demands brands to give answers -or at least begin working towards the answers. As a response the FR campaign also gives brands, producers, designers etc., the opportunity to reply to the question using the

#IMadeYourClothes hash tag.

Environmental film Club and more.

As a global movement the aim is to spread this message throughout the whole year, however it all culminates to one week in April – Fashion Revolution Week.

Our aim is to give consumers and designers the opportunity to be a part of the Fashion Revolution and to understand their power to help clean up the industry. While the Business of Fashion prediction manifested, the trend needs to move beyond just a trend and into the normal standard for the fashion industry.

While our intention is to be able to make all fashion produced in the same way as the Zara Join Life collections, the most crucial part of the sustainable fashion message ultimately refers to understanding the true value and true cost of our clothing in order to stop treating them like a disposable commodity. This can only be done once we start asking questions like #WhoMadeMyClothes? A lot of power lies in the hands of the consumer, we want to help you find that power. Join us during Fashion Revolution week and be a part of the revolution! [ V ]

Marking the anniversary of the Rana Plaza collapse, the scope is to create a lot of awareness and put high amounts of pressure at one go.

In 2018, I became the country coordinator for Fashion Revolution in Malta. This means that the movement has officially spread to our tiny Island. During the week of the 22nd and 28th April, we will be encouraging consumers and designers to participate in the social media campaign by asking the question #WhoMadeMyClothes and answering with #IMadeYourClothes. We will also be hosting a wide range of events in collaboration with many different partners, like a Repair Café with Levis Jeans, a documentary screening with Friends of the Earth and Kinemastik, as part of their

*follow us to find out more

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STYLE FILE

‘ SPRING BLOSSOM ’ CHEERFUL, COLOURFUL AND PRETTY,THIS COLOUR COMBO USES NEUTRAL TONES ON BROWNS AND PINKS AS A BASE AND STRIKING HIGHLIGHTS RESONATING WITH THIS BLOSSOMING SEASON. 1. Bracelet, €1400, available at Gaba, Naxxar. 2. Jacket, €59.99. 3. Top, €19.99. 4. Jeans, €50.99. All available at NOOS, Sliema. 5. Shoes, €129.90, ECCO & online ecco-shoes.com.mt. 6. Shirt, €35.99, available at NOOS, Sliema.

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‘ PEACHY PASTELS ’ FLORAL PASTELS, FRILLS AND POLKA DOTS ARE STILL ALIVE AND KICKING! MATCH YOUR FEMININE LOOK WITH EARTHY-TONES AND GOLD ACCESSORIES – A PICTURE-PERFECT LOOK FOR GARDEN PARTIES THIS SPRING. 1. Skirt, €29.99. 2. Shirt, €35.99. 3. Sandals, €35.99. All available at Mango. 4. Sandals, €109.90, available at ECCO, ecco-shoes.com.mt.

5. Bag, €49.99, available at Mango. 6. Necklace, €500, available at Gaba, Naxxar.

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WORDS: SIMONA BERCHI

THE _ N SCOOP MILAN FASHION WEEK ‘19

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MILAN FW

MALTESE PHOTOGRAPHERS BERNARD POLIDANO AND MARK SOLER WERE BEHIND THE LENS AT THE RECENT MILAN FASHION WEEK AND SHOT THE FANTASTICAL EVENT WITH FOCUS ON A NEW GENERATION OF CHINESE DESIGNERS.

This edition of Milan Fashion Week shows were all marked with the recent death of Karl Lagerfeld – for those not ‘into the fashion scene’, he was a German creative director, fashion designer, artist, photographer, and caricaturist who lived in Paris.

Yet, the atmosphere at the recent edition of Milan Fashion Week was that of the jovial 1980s with fun frivolity that presented a heavy investment in luxury fabrics.

A total of 60 fashion houses showed their collections, according to the National Chamber of Italian Fashion (CNMI) - including the likes of acclaimed fashion houses Armani, Fendi, Ferragamo, Gucci, Missoni, Versace, and Prada, among others.

Fashion Shows and presentations spread across amazing venues such as Sala delle Cariatidi at Palazzo Reale, Spazio Cavallerizze – an integral part of the Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia ‘Leonardo da Vinci’ – and Palazzo Giureconsulti, along with other venues chosen by each brand on the calendar.

Maltese photographer Bernard Polidano witnessed some interesting collaborations between the Chamber of Italian Fashion and various international fashion hubs. Special guests of MMD (Milano Moda Donna) included Hungarian designers with HFDA (Hungarian Fashion & Design Agency) like Abodi, Artista, Celeni, Cukovy, Elysian, Je Suis Belle, Tomcsanyi, Zsigmond Dora menswear).

In the spotlight were some selected Chinese designers presented their collections: Alexstorm, F/FFFFFF, Lanneret, Mukzin, Scale 79 Studio, Vmajor, Zynggati. Before the show, Alex Liu - Alexstorm’s chief designer, told Xinhua, “As a source of inspiration, he looked at the current way of life of young people in China and in the world, he also pays attention to popular paintings, movies, or TV works concerning arts, and then transform these inputs into design language.”

F/FFFFFF designer Zac Zeng believes young people in China are showing a growing interest in fashion and style. “They always want to be special and attractive, and they like to find their own style in order to be different,” he said.

The event also marked the official launch of Xi’an International Fashion Town meant to create an inspiring working environment for Chinese and foreign designers, with the aim to change from ‘Made in China’ to ‘Created in China’. The new generation of Chinese designers is more aware of the mixture of cultures, and especially of the mixture of contemporary design brands and Chinese culture. > SPRING_19 ISSUE

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MILAN FW

“A striking collection by a high level of engineering used to create avant– garde outfits.”

Images Mark Soler

“Au197Sm uses an exclusive patented technique that fuses 24 kt gold and other precious metals with fine fibers — treated like design objects – which are combined with innovative elements.”

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MILAN FW

“In China people always want to be special and attractive, and they like to find their own style in order to be different.”

Images Bernard Polidano

– Zac Zeng, F/FFFFFF designer.

Abodi (center) is one of the most prominent representatives of Hungarian fashion.” VOGUE, Ukraine. (Design by Abodi during Milan Fashion Week seen in centre)

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Photographer : Diana Kei – dianakei_photo w w w. d i a n a k e i . c o m Stylist: Rox Delgado – roxdelgado w w w. r i x d e l g a d o. c o m Model: Alfredo – noticedmodels w w w. n o t i c e d m o d e l s . c o m

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TRENDING

Ballantine’s kicks off Malta’s first True Music Party A LIVE SCREENING AT GIANPULA OF KRAKOW’S BOILER ROOM EVENT – APRIL 25TH

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his year Ballantine’s Scotch whisky are taking ‘True Music’ back on the road and re-joining forces with Boiler Room, for a series of events around the globe in Russia, Poland, Spain, and South Africa. Maltese party goers will be able to witness the strength of this partnership first hand as the DJ performances from Krakow’s boiler room event on April 25th will be live streamed via Boiler Room TV on large screens at The Vaults, in Gianpula Village. Of course, all this set up in an ambiance that only Ballantine’s can create.

Headlining the Ballantine’s True Music x Boiler Room Krakow event that will be livestreamed are none other than Fjaak, the Berlin based techno trio with multiple hit singles and albums under their belt. Holland native Martyn and Swedish duo Shxcxchcxsh will be bringing their own distinct sounds, while Polish representation will take form in Private Press and Olivia adding their own music interpretation to this stellar line-up. To make this livestream event even more special, Malta’s own Acidulant and Dean Demanuele will also be DJing, but in person at The Vaults, Gianpula Village, at different times during the livestream party.

Over the last four years, Ballantine’s, through its True Music platform, has partnered up with Boiler Room

the world biggest broadcaster of new underground music, with a simple mission – to showcase and celebrate the most credible music scenes and stories from around the world.

Keeping true to their claim of pushing music scenes forward - and supporting artists, fans, crews and the wider music community in the areas that need it most - Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music events have been hosted around the globe providing over 220 artists with a global audience of more than 115 million viewers worldwide.

Claudia Attard, Ballantine’s Brand Executive at Farsons Beverage Imports Company Ltd, said, “Ballantine’s True Music celebrates artists that

do it their way. Whether they are just starting out or already global stars. They aren’t in it for the glitz and glamour, but simply to make the music which they truly believe in, for them as artists, and for their fans.”

Tickets for the Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music Karkow livestream event are free of charge but capped at 300 guests. More information about the event and tickets can be found at www.facebook.com/BallantinesMalta

Ballantines is marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Co Ltd. Trade Enquiry 23814400

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INTERVIEW

> “THE UNIVERSE IS INTRICATE. THE MORE WE LEARN ABOUT IT, THE MORE INTENSE IT GETS AND A LOT MORE OF THE UNKNOWN EMERGES. YET, I BELIEVE THAT ONCE EXPLAINED, EVERYTHING AND ANYTHING BECOMES SIMPLE; ALL WE NEED TO DO IS CHANGE THE PERSPECTIVE.”

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SIM

COM PLE XITY

INTERVIEW

VAMP MEETS UP WITH NYC–BASED VISUAL ARTIST DAVID PAUL KAY >

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INTERVIEW

What made you travel to NYC? I’m originally from Eastern Europe, born and raised in the country of Georgia. In 2008 for personal reasons I had to leave the country and move to the US for good. Soon after I moved to NYC, and it’s the best thing that has happened to me.

Your creations are synonymous with lines. Is this true for your earlier works or was your style developed later?

I have always painted, experimented in several different mediums. Even though I never went to an art school, I have two degrees; one in Computer Systems and Networking and an another in Law. When I was a child I was trained by my father’s best friend, who was a great artist and calligrapher. He taught me how to build a figure, even how to hold a pencil. Great guy, I owe him a lot for giving the right direction to my spark. After moving to New York I found my own language as an artist. I developed the style I paint and draw in, the one I’m recognized and identified by. As an artist I was born here in the city.

In a recent video with Montblanc you challenge yourself to introduce more colour into your works. How has this impacted the results of your work?

Overall the partnership with Montblanc was a great experience. I have collaborated with major brands before on commission work or live art projects but I cannot compare any experience to this one and that’s why the results were spectacular. It turned into a global partnership and on every level, every single team member I’ve worked with throughout the project has inspired to make art and make this partnership a huge success. One of the elements I tapped into while conceptualizing the project was perhaps bringing red into my work. When I explain black and white to my audience, I always compare it to a musical instrument: let’s say I’m making music - I could write the melody in my head using any instrument but the piano is the one I feel most comfortable and confident with. Black and white keyboard is my playground. In this case I brought red, a new instrument, a violin perhaps and it sounded perfectly with my piano. I will be incorporating red in my work here and there; it depends, every piece is individual, every thought, every story requires its own way of telling. >

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FACIAL EXPRESSION AND COMPLEXION OF OUR FACE IS HOW WE COMMUNICATE WITHOUT EVEN SAYING A WORD UNDERSTANDING THAT LANGUAGE IS WHAT GETS ME INSPIRED.”

INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW We noticed your schedule for exhibitions and shows was quite busy last year. What’s your secret in balancing your time and energy between creating work and participating or organising exhibitions?

It has been a busy year or two and I’m glad to see that happen because being busy keeps me inspired: the more I do, the more I want to do. I see it as two sides of the brain. One that gets lost in the thoughts and taps into the infinity bringing inspiration and then focusing on translating that onto a canvas or paper or a cold concrete wall. And the other side that also plays a critical role in making sure that the final piece turns out to be exactly what I want it to be, and that part is a craftsman and a project manager, logistics, communication, marketing, and planning.

Often artists are viewed as lazy creatures who just hangout and do nothing, just bounce around some ideas and create things. That’s not completely true; there is a lot of work behind what you see on the wall at the gallery and often that work is not fully appreciated.

What is your favourite subject to draw? And Why?

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Even though most of my work is abstract, a human face fascinates me.

In several of my series throughout the crazy intricate shapes and lines faces emerge. Facial expression and complexion of our face is how we communicate without even saying a word - understanding that language is what gets me inspired. Sometimes I feel like when I’m looking at a person I know what she or he is thinking about; I can profile a person by just looking at their face, how parts of it align, move, or don’t move. I like to ‘people-watch’. There are so many of us and we are so different.

We think we are the supreme yet we are not. I like to objectify that false sense of supremacy, then observe and use it for the chain of my thought experiments.

In your bio statement you say “ everything is simply complicated ” – may you elaborate?

The Universe is intricate. The more we learn about it, the more intense it gets and a lot more of the unknown emerges. Yet, I believe that once explained, everything and anything becomes simple; all we need to do is change the perspective. Unexplained it’s complicated, once explained it’s simple. I like to get to the bottom of everything, dig deeper >

INTERVIEW

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“WHEN I SEE THINGS, I ASK “WHY?” WHEN I DO THINGS, I ASK “WHY NOT?” CURIOSITY IS THE BIRTHPLACE OF CREATIVITY.”

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INTERVIEW

> and understand, because once I understand it’s no longer a challenge, so that I can tap into another bigger challenge, and on and on. Endlessly. I’m looking outside of my window right now - it just started snowing, small snowflakes falling out of the sky. It seams so complex and intricate, it’s “magical” and confusing, but once you learn and understand the process behind it and how the ‘snow is made,’ it becomes simple.

When I see things, I ask “why?” When I do things, I ask “why not?” Curiosity is the birthplace of creativity. The ability to look at anything and see it as a simple object as one, yet being able to see the universe it’s made of, is what can get you to inspire and push to create interesting work.

What’s been your career highlight so far?

There have been several. I would point out the recent partnership with Montblanc! Representations in multiple cities here in the US and in Europe.

One small detail that I found rewarding as an artist was in Paris last fall.

On my second day of visiting that beautiful city and falling in love with it, I was having dinner at a restaurant on the side of the river Seine; great scenery, very Paris. I was with my best friend and couple of other friends when I noticed a person sitting at a table next to us staring at me. At first I found it a bit awkward but shortly after he comes over to our table, he has my website pulled out on the screen of his phone and with a lovely French accent he ask me “Excuse me, are you David Paul Kay, artist from New York, I have loved and followed your work for a long time”. This was one of the most rewarding experiences yet, in one of my favorite cities – for the first time, randomly my work brings recognition to my face.

What are you most excited about for 2019?

2019 had a great start. I’m energized, inspired and motivated. Everyone around me feels the same. It will be a busy year, I can tell and I’m excited to dive right into it. There will be a lot of travelling, a lot of making art both canvas pieces and large-scale monumental work.

I always say that success is measured by the distance between you and your happiness - I believe this distance has gotten way shorter in 2019.

I don’t get excited, I get inspired, motivated and happy - that’s my formula of happiness. [ V ]

“

SUCCESS IS MEASURED

BY THE DISTANCE BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR HAPPINESS.”

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QUICK QUESTIONS: Where/What is your dream canvas?

The facade of Guggenheim museum here in the city. I would love to cover it with a gigantic mural one day.

Current go to medium? Canvas and oil markers.

Current playlist?

It’s eclectic, though I’ve been listening to Bjork a lot lately. Love her art.

Dream Exhibition Space?

Fourth floor of the Whitney museum, there is something magical about that space.

Favourite Drink? Bloody mary, usually virgin.

Favourite time to create? Anytime I’m awake.

Top travel destination? All of Italy (especially Florence).

Magazine: print or online? Print of course.

W i n t e r / Tre n d s / 2 0 1 8

SET IN THE VINTAGE BUILDING OF THE INQUISITOR’S PALACE, STYLIST NENA KAY TEAMS UP WITH VAMP AND PHOTOGRAPHER MATTHEW B. SPITERI FOR A SHOOT THAT EXEMPLIFIES VINTAGE-CHIC. HIT THE STREETS WITH THESE HEAD-TURNING CHIC ENSEMBLES.

MAXED OUT Photography Mathew B. Spiteri Model Carmen from Noticed Models Hair cut & style by Neville at Neville’s hair studio Makeup by Franks- Terry Attard using Guerlain Styled by Nena Kay Shot at The Inquisitor Palace, Birgu

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Bag, €248, available at Coccinelle. Skirt, €135. Shirt, €110. All available from Armani Exchange.

Necklace, €151, by Bassi, available at GABA.

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Trousers, €129. Shirt, €89.90. Bag, €139.90. Sandals, €119.90.

Sunglasses, €120. All available from Tommy Hilfiger.

Bag, €248, available at Coccinelle. Skirt, €90.

Top, €65. Jacket, €185. Sandals, €150. All available from Armani Exchange. Silver-rose plated bangle, €115, silver bangle, €110, by Bassi, available at GABA.

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LEFT: Bag, €340 available at Coccinelle.

Dress, €165. Scarf, €80. All available from Armani Exchange. Earrings, €100, by Bassi, available at GABA. RIGHT: Trousers, €129. Top, €109.

Shirt, €89.90. Sandals, €89.90. Bag, €129.90.

All available from Tommy Hilfiger.

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STYLE FILE

Q+A _ NENA KAY

In brief, how was your experience styling this issue’s fashion shoot?

What did you like most about it?

I absolutely loved it. It’s not an easy job, despite how glamorous it looks. The finished results mean so much more when you can see that everyone is happy with the results and on the shoot. The on-set shooting was probably my most favourite bit: you have to be ready to react, to see every part of the ‘picture’. You are really looking for the things that are wrong but in a good way! I loved the energy and excitement on the shoot. It’s addictive.

Was this shoot with VAMP your first experience? If no, which were your favourite shoots and why?

This was my first shoot behind the lens so to speak. It is a different world one side to the other. I think that - as it was my first as a stylist - this VAMP shoot will always be my favourite.

What challenges are faced when styling?

How to balance what you need/think you need with what you can actually fit in your car! It’s also useful to have a personal supply of bits - tights, belts, hairclips and so on. Also needle, thread and safety pins! So perhaps organisation is the biggest challenge. Flexibility is another useful skill. You need to have back up plans and ideas just in case something goes wrong.

Your role and experience take many shapes and forms in the fashion industry. Do you prefer to be in front of the camera or styling the shoot?

he Malta-based Serbian model and fashion blogger with over 140K Instagram followers, is remarkably styling and blending fashion against Malta’s unique backdrops. Nena’s effortless romantic and refined vintage style is identified by many of her female followers that engage with her on Instagram; seemingly effortlessly done in her well-composed photographs and gorgeous feed.

This fashionista’s goal is to inspire women and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Like most of us Nena Kay had a 9 – 5 job and after she gained popularity as a model she began to express and play on Instagram which gave her the platform to do what she loves full time. Her street looks are never void of a pair of sunglasses! And her body is always dressed in outfits that perfectly flatter her figure such as high-waist trousers and fitted dresses that accentuate her natural curves. “I admire women who manage to look effortlessly chic, but I also get inspired by women who are brave enough to stand out and show their authenticity.”

Her immaculate sense of colour combinations plays perfectly in contrast or in complement to the stunning backdrops that Malta has to offer. “Malta is a very inspirational island… over the year, the landscapes go green to brown to blue. A lot of buildings are white stone with colourful doors and balconies, as well as very futuristic, new designs of steel and glass, so the choice of backdrop is enormous.” Outfits are carefully selected and the location she wants to shoot in is studied in a way of storytelling so that her audiences want to know more.

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That’s a really interesting question. I would have said being in front of the camera was my ‘thing’ but now I’ve been introduced to the styling element, I am definitely hooked. Can I say 50:50?

What major plans do you have for this year?

Travel is definitely the main plan: opportunities to cross the world and experience differences in culture, language and landscape should never be missed and I am a big traveller. I’m also looking to minimise waste and unnecessary purchases. I get sent a lot of stuff and I always check the sustainability and social responsibility of the companies. I’m also setting up a way of passing on the goods or selling them to raise money for a good cause.

What’s your take on the Fashion Revolution campaign.

I am totally behind it and its ethos. Its manifesto states “Fashion stands for solidarity, inclusiveness and democracy, regardless of race, class, gender, age, shape or ability.”

This is what I believe in and why I became an influencer. I grew up during a war and so I know first hand how good and how bad people can be. If by choosing to buy your T shirt or handbag from Company A, who provide workers with rights, career opportunities and living wages, over Company B who do not, then for me it is a no brainer! I hope everyone who reads this will sign up to Fashion Revolution. [ V ]

Photography - Suzana Simijonovic For more from Nena Kay follow her on @nena_kay_on Instagram

STYLE FILE

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VAMP sits with “Real Estate Personality of the Year” Robbie Antonio to share his business insights on designer, prefabricated homes and structures with an affordable price tag. Interview: Chris Briffa

REVOL

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UTION PRE – CRAFT ED Robbie Antonio - Founder and President of Antonio Development in New York, and now the Founder and CEO of Revolution Precrafted - currently has 82 million square feet worth of developed, in-progress, and managed properties under his belt.

To date, he has worked with 13 Pritzker Prize Architects/firms such as Zaha Hadid, Philip Johnson Alan Ritchie, Rem Koolhaas, Jean Nouvel, I.M.Pei, Paulo Mendes da Rocha, and Christian de Portzamparc, as well as designers such as Ron Arad, Campana Brothers, Tom Dixon, Philippe Starck, and Marcel Wanders.

He has worked with over 103 notable brands in various fields; including fashion, Hollywood, luxury, design, and art. He has established the largest number of luxury branded real estate developments across the globe, by working with Giorgio Armani for Armani Casa,Versace Home, Missoni Home, Paris Hilton, Lenny Kravitz and Wallpaper* Magazine. >

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INTERVIEW

He is the youngest person in the Forbes Philippines 50 richest list in both 2017 and 2018, and the youngest and most prolific collector of international modern and post-war contemporary art in the world. Because of his accomplishments as an art collector, he has received a number of awards from many different organizations.

In 2014, Artnet recognised him as one of “20 of the World’s Most Innovative Art Collectors,” while in 2015, he became part of Artnet’s “Top 200 Art Collectors Worldwide”. Artnet also recognised him with two awards in 2016: as one of twelve young art collectors to watch out for, as well as one of the top 100 art collectors for that year. This year, he was cited by BuiltWorld’s in its 2018 Mavericks Report as one of “25 Pioneers Who’ve Transformed the Built Industry.” In May 2018, he was named “Real Estate Personality of the Year” by PropertyGuru. Singapore Straits Time also named him as one of “50 Asians Who Are Changing The Way We Live,”.

His passion for art has also led him to collaborate with artists such as Marina Abramovich, Maurizio Catellan, Francesco Clemente, Damien Hirst, Zhang Huan, David La Chapelle, Marilyn Minter, Takashi Murakami, Julian Opie, and Julian Schnabel.

His latest venture into real estate as the CEO of Revolution Precrafted, brings together over 80 of the world’s leading architects, artists, and designers including Sou Fujimoto, Daniel Libeskind, David Salle and celebrities such as Daphne Guinness, Helena Christensen + Camilla Stærk and Amar’e Stoudemire.

Revolution supplies transportable, collectible, and customizable homes, pavilions, prefabricated museums, glamping, condominiums, hotels, villas, pop-up retail, pop-up F&B, pop-up offices, pop-up co-working spaces, art furniture, etc. to landowners, developers, and end users all over the world.

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“ T H I S Y E A R , H E WA S C I T E D B Y B U I LT W O R L D ’ S I N I T S 2 0 1 8 M AV E R I C K S R E P O RT A S O N E OF “25 PIONEERS WHO’VE T R A N S F O R M E D T H E B U I LT INDUSTRY ”

INTERVIEW

Q+A Tell us about Revolution Precrafted.

Revolution Precrafted is a global real estate marketplace that connects developers, fabricators, designers and customers, to create design-driven projects and products, both traditional and prefab, around the world.

It is a unicorn start-up, valued at over $1 Billion. It is one of the fastest companies in Southeast Asia to reach unicorn status.

What are your major international projects so far?

We have current projects in 28 countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, The Middle East, North and South America. These projects are in varying stages of master planning and implementation. We operate on a B2B2C model so a lot of the preparatory works are courtesy of our partner developers.

Apart from business, what are your passions?

I am very passionate about modern and contemporary art. But I also have a great appreciation and respect for the works of the masters. >

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INTERVIEW

What’s next for Revolution Precrafted?

Revolution Precrafted is currently in the middle of a brand expansion.

While we were primarily a prefab company, we have expanded our products and services to include quasi-prefab and hybrid works in order to accommodate more projects around the world. We are also exploring at offering modular clinics, affordable homes, condos, hotels and low to mid-rise offices. We also have great interest in block-chain and STO, and we are venturing into hydroponics.

Revolution Precrafted is also unveiling a new unit that focuses mainly on franchise and licensing concepts. This is part of a strategy to fully utilize our partnership with some of the world’s best celebrities and experts. We have announced our partnership with world boxing icon Manny Pacquiao for the HITT boxing gym franchise. We are currently finalizing the details for its roll out.

TEMPO, a new biking gym that we conceptualized with Filipino celebrity and biking enthusiast, has recently been announced. We will soon unveil a spa and salon partnership with Staerk&Christensen, composed of supermodel Helena Christensen and design maven Camilla Staerk.

We feel that this new venture has a lot of potential based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback that we have received. We plan to bring these concepts globally too, and are taking the steps to ensure a successful introduction on the global stage.

Apart from the above, do you have any message that you would like to convey to our readers?

Be flexible and resilient and be willing to work harder than anyone from your team

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What’s next for Revolution Precrafted?

Revolution Precrafted is currently in the middle of a brand expansion.

While we were primarily a prefab company, we have expanded our products and services to include quasi-prefab and hybrid works in order to accommodate more projects around the world. We are also exploring at offering modular clinics, affordable homes, condos, hotels and low to mid-rise offices. We also have great interest in block-chain and STO, and we are venturing into hydroponics.

We are rolling our Renegade Branding Concepts, a new unit that focuses on franchising and licensing branded concepts. This is part of a strategy to fully utilize our partnership with some of the world’s best celebrities and experts. We have announced our partnership with world boxing icon Manny Pacquiao for the HITT boxing gym franchise. We are currently finalizing the details for its roll out.

INTERVIEW

Growing up from a business-oriented family, was it really a dream of yours to become an entrepreneur?

Definitely, I have always wanted to put up my own company using my own abilities, network and experiences. The fact that I grew up in a business-oriented family only intensified my desire to become a businessman.

art, fashion and architecture, and collaborating with some of the greatest minds in the world was just an experience not many people get to enjoy.

Furthermore, seeing the finished designs made us proud of what we are trying to do. Imagine being able to create world-class home designs at relatively more affordable prices.

The Antonio family has been very active in the Philippines’ property sector for over three decades now. And your brainchild startup, Revolution Precrafted, is also in line with the same industry.

Tell us what inspired you to venture this business?

How easy was it for you to have these celebrated designers to sign up and work alongside your company?

There was always going to be a lot of questions when you start out and we had our fair share of questions from architects and designers early on, but when we explained clearly the rationale behind the business, a lot of them came on board. They share our belief of the need to democratize design and make it more accessible to the consumers.

I have been exposed to the real estate business at an early age and I have come to appreciate its intricacies and complexities. I have become very familiar with almost all aspects of the business. However, there was that desire to break out of the norm, and create something different that totally stands out. I spent years doing my own research and I have come to realize that there is so much potential and possibilities in the prefab industry.

In October 2017, ‘Revolution Precrafted’ achieved the $1 billion valuation or the ‘Unicorn Status’ as a privately owned start-up, the first to do it in your region. How did you manage to reach an outstanding feat in such a short period of time?

‘Revolution’ is quite a catchy name for a start-up, to be honest.

What puzzles us is that why did you adapt the term ‘precrafted’ as your company’s name instead of ‘prefabricated’?

The word ‘prefabricated’ is too obvious. I wanted to coin a term that would define what we do in a classier and sexier manner. At the same time, the word ‘precrafted’ is derived from the word craft, which can mean profession.

Before launching it to the public, we took the time to really perfect the business model and study its viability. We also took the time to partner with some of the world’s best architects, designers and artists to show to the world that our business model works - that it is possible to design homes, pavilions with popular and renowned artists, and offer these at lower cost. After seeing that our proposition is fool proof, investors expressed their confidence to invest in the company.

During the early days of ‘Revolution Precrafted’, what were the major challenges that still stick to your mind to date?

We never really had major setbacks or challenges. The concept was met with approval and support from various stakeholders because of its strong business proposition. In fact, a lot of investors offered to put in capital early on because they really believe in what we were trying to accomplish.

The rudimentary of your business model is out-sourcing key parts or materials for a project then ship them to your client’s location for assembly. Is this a bit logistically demanding in your end?

It’s manageable. The key is to secure sufficient partners and suppliers around the world. At present we have a database of 700 fabricators around the world, and we have partnerships with fabricators in Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa. As we move towards becoming a marketplace, we will ensure to widen this fabricator network, and connect them with developers, suppliers and consumers. >

How was the experience of bringing together some of the world’s leading architects, artists and designers such as Sou Fujimoto, Jean Nouvel, Tom Dixon and the late Zaha Hadid, as part of one grand project?

It was really a very exciting time. As you know, I have a deep passion for

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INTERVIEW

When it comes to pricing, how cheap is a prefabricated house compared to the traditional construction method?

It’s difficult to give a specific amount since we have different designs and we do orders by bulk. This allows us to achieve economies of scale, not to mention that the prefab process cuts down the overall turnaround time of production, leading to significant savings and minimizing expenses.

Generally speaking, you can achieve 10-15 per cent savings with prefab.

To enlighten our readers on your prefab options, do tell us about Revolution’s product price points and key figures.

The price range of our homes is between $20,000 to $360,000. We have our basics homes designed by our internal architecture team, and we have curated homes designed by 81 revolutionaries from around the world.

What are some common misconceptions the public holds towards prefabricated structures and products?

People sometimes think that prefab structures have bad quality, but that is not true. Our homes pass stringent quality testing for earthquake and wind speed. Another misconception is that prefab homes are ugly. We deliberately partnered with well-known designers and artists to debunk this fallacy. We are proud to say that we have prefab home and museum

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designs by Pritzker-winning architects such as Jean Nouvel, Christian de Portzamparc and Philip Johnson Alan Ritchie among others.

‘PropTech’ or Property technology is the buzzword to ponder here. How significant is this to you and the whole concept of your business?

Yes, another reason why we decided to explore prefab is because we wanted the technology aspect of it. We used advanced robotics to streamline our production processes. This is something that differentiates us even further from traditional home-building. Soon we will be adapting smart home technology in our homes too.

Does your company integrate green technologies when it comes to building houses?

We are exploring ways to further make our processes more sustainable but as it is, prefab homes are already energy efficient because they use a lot of glass. This encourages minimal usage of electricity for lighting. The insulation of prefab homes is also adjusted to make them more convenient and homey for customers. [ V ]

TRENDING

‘ MINIMALIST ’ ADD CONTOUR TO YOUR LIVING SPACE WITH THIS ECCENTRICALLY DELICIOUS COLLECTION WITH AN EMPHASIS ON ABSTRACT SHAPES AND SLANTED LINES. 1. Chandelier Dahlin, available at LOFT. 2. Eames Plastic Armchair, available at Vivendo Group. 3. Wall Art, available at Vivendo Group. 4. Noguchi Coffee Table, available at Vivendo Group. 5. Chair Nathan Green, available at LOFT. 6. Chair Igo, available at LOFT. 7. Hang it all, available at Vivendo Group.

1.

2.

4.

6.

3.

5.

7.

“

KEEP IT SIMPLE AND PICK ICONIC PIECES THAT MAKE A STATEMENT ”

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DESIGN

>

LOCATED ON A STEEP MOUNTAIN SLOPE CLOSE

BY TO A VOLCANIC SAND SURF BEACH ON THE WEST COAST OF AUKLAND, THE KAWAKAWA HOUSE IN PIHA PRESENTS ITSELF AS A MODERNISTIC CABIN-LIKE ABODE THAT BLENDS IN ITS NATURAL SURROUNDINGS. HERBST Architects were presented with a brief that called for a beach house, which takes advantage of the spectacular natural environment surrounding the site and is able to be used year round.

The site, which sits at the base of a steep mountain slope behind the

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beach and is completely covered in tall mature Pohutukawa trees, presented some challenges. An existing two-storey house obscures views to the ocean from the lower level. The site, being overhung by trees and under mountain peaks to the east, which curve around to the North, is extremely sun challenged and subject to regular onshore winds in the summer months.

The architects’ response was to lift all of the living functions of the house onto an upper level to give views of the ocean from the living room and to lift the bedrooms up and closer to the light and the canopy of the trees. Large, clear apertures allow abundance of light to enter the spacious open-plan area and create a sense of vastness with the stunning view. >

KAWAKAWA HOUSE– PHIA

Photography by Patrick Reynolds

DESIGN

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DESIGN

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DESIGN

“

The interior walls are decked with Birch ply-wood from Plytech. They are smoothly finished black with Osmo ‘Polyx’ creating natural tones and patterns that resemble nature’s earthy palette and patterns; particularly noted in the cosy bedrooms. Space was cleverly utilised for additional sleeping area for guests with a section of cosy bunk beds, maintaining the earthy-palette. ” >

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DESIGN

“

I n order to take advantage of the spectacular view of the pohutukawa trees and mountain surrounding the house as well as to let light in from above, a continuous clerestory window was set up to the perimeter of the upper volume.�

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DESIGN

Elements of turquoise-green appear sporadically interrupting the monotony in the brown tones whilst adding vibrancy and harmonization with the natural surrounding of lush trees and the ocean.

The plan on the upper level is a simple rectangle with an open central courtyard bringing light into the heart of the upper level and around which the functions of the house circulate.

The main living space is construed as a covered deck with a balustraded open mouth to the view, whilst the central courtyard provides a protected outdoor living area when the wind is blowing from the west.

Piha is a popular destination for Aucklanders. It is a 50-minute drive through the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park to get there, and the black sand surf beach has a dramatic backdrop of native forest and rugged coastline. Apart from surfing, there are also many hiking tracks and waterfalls to visit in the Waitakere Ranges, so it is a great spot to visit for the weekend and entertain guests. Â [ V ]

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TRAVEL

THE DREAM OF LIVING IN A TREE HOUSE IS NO LONGER KEPT FOR THE IMAGINATION. VAMP EXPLORES TWO TREE HOUSES ACROSS TWO UNIQUE DESTINATIONS IN EUROPE.

At some point or another, we have all dreamed of hiding out in a tree house. Luckily, the tree houses of our imagination no longer remain solely in bedtime stories or films. For those who seek to live some of their greatest childhood dreams and are looking for a unique way to recharge and relax, architects and designers now offer some unbelievable tree house getaways for holidays.

On top of this, woodlands are undoubtedly one of the most intriguing places to explore, for they are vast, home to beautiful creatures and treasure nature’s best-kept secrets. A stay in the woods covered by the blanket of green makes for an unforgettable experience connecting with nature, making our top tree houses in Europe a unique, elegant, and surreal haven. >

up Words by Dayna Clarke

Live it

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TRAVEL

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TRAVEL

ITALY –

T

he folks over at La Piantata don’t just have one tree house for the offering, but two in the heart of Tuscany, set within stunning lavender-covered hills. Renzo Stucchi left his job as a top CEO in Milan to build the tree houses, which form part of Farmhouse La Piantata bed and breakfast in the Italian countryside. The bigger tree house, named La Suite Bleue, is set eight metres off the ground in a handsome century-old oak tree. If you do care about the environment yet can’t help yourself from wanting the biggest and best of everything, so why not try eco-living Italian style? You can stay in the largest (and most chic) tree house in all Europe, the stuff of childhood fantasies but with a distinctly sophisticated twist. >

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TRAVEL

La Piantata is in the wooded countryside around Lake Bolsena. Continuously fed by volcanic spring water, Bolsena is the cleanest lake in Europe.

Nearby you can readily explore the ancient Etruscan ruins and the medieval towns and villages of the Via Francigeria, the old pilgrim route to Rome. For an extra touch, La Piantata also offers plenty of homemade organic products, the perfect souvenir to remember your tree house stay. www.lapiantata.it

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TRAVEL

FRANCE –

SOMMET DE MEMANAT TREE HOUSE T

his ethereal tree house is called Sommet de Memanat, named after the highest point in Memanat area of France. The residence is 4 metres above the ground and is nestled between ancient trees. The tree house bears endless views out from the terrace across the Thaurion valley, truly unspoilt except for a horse or donkey wandering past.

The Memanat Treehouse is luxuriously fitted out in terms of the quality of dĂŠcor and fittings. On the terrace, the Jacuzzi is sunken into the decking, with a glass panel in the balustrade so you can appreciate the picture postcard view from the hot tub. Inside the tree house there are two bedrooms, as well as a living area with a high spec kitchen and dining, and even a dishwasher! >

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TRAVEL

The tree house forms part of Chateau Memanat Estate. Exploring the 20-hectare estate leads you to secret gardens with play parks for the kids and through the miles of peaceful, rambling woodland. Enjoy being off the beaten track; borrow bikes or range out to the nearby medieval town of Bourganeuf, this stunning region is the least populated, and consequently the least polluted region of France. It’s famous for its magnificent countryside, clean air, lakes and rivers. www.chateaudememanat.com

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PEOPLE

VAMP visits a Studio in Rajasthan’ by Waswo X. Waswo and Rajesh Soni

Capturing the ethereal – luminosity of India.

Words: Rosella E. Frigerio

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>

2008 – Back from Market

PEOPLE

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2018 - Kashu on a Brick Pedestal

PEOPLE

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2009 - On The Way

PEOPLE

“

I’m inspired by beauty. I love landscape, but feel too overwhelmed by landscape to try and capture it. The beauty of people, on the other hand, I can relate to on a very personal level.”

– WASWO X. WASWO

A stone’s throw away from what was once the capital of the Mewar Kingdom in Rajasthan, the unassuming and quiet village of Varda conceals the photographic magic of Milwaukee-born Waswo X. Waswo. From his studio, enchanting tableaus and hand painted photographs portraying snippets of Indian life - suspended between the past and the present - emerge.

Waswo immortalizes fragments of India’s multifaceted and distinct identity, fusing his images with the soft touch and palette of hand photo colourist, Rajesh Soni. Together, Waswo and Soni capture a distinct aesthetic that threads together what once was with what now is. >

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2013 - Shifting Homes.

PEOPLE

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PEOPLE

Having pursued his studies in Milwaukee (University of WisconsinMilwaukee) and Florence (Fondazione Studio Marangoni), Waswo moved to India in the early 1990s. He has published a series of books that explore his evolving creative relationship with this incredible and rich nation, whilst his work has been collected and exhibited both within and outside of India.

Soni, whose grandfather was once court photographer to the Maharana Bhopal Singh of Mewar and also a hand colourist, meticulously adds layers of colour to each of Waswo’s digital images, imbuing each frame with an ethereal luminosity.

Waswo and Soni have been working together for over a decade on the series, ‘A Studio in Rajasthan’, and are currently in the midst of preparing for their sixteenth solo exhibition. We take a glimpse into the works that have emerged from this prolific collaboration, and soak up the wonder and delight that their photographs evoke. [ V ] Images from top left: 2017 - The Pheriwallah 2009 - Sapna Playing Sita 2018 - Ram Singh Concerned about the Weather

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NEPAL; FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Young boy holds a sparkler in the dark.

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This enchanting Himalayan destination is on the bucket list of many. VAMP dives into a realm of captivating cultural activities celebrated during The Festival of Lights in Nepal.

A selection of coloured powders at the market.

Words: Hannah Cremona Photography: Niranjan Shrestha / Hannah Cremona

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

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f you thought that Malta has a fair share of festivals and holidays, think again. Nepal has over 50 festivals in a year; mostly celebrated nationwide, which means more public holidays than you can even begin to imagine. Additionally, some of these festivals run on for days on end, with numerous religious rituals, offerings, and gatherings.

At this time of the year, Nepal is blessed with crisp blue skies and from Kathmandu valley one can see the magnificent Himalayan mountain peaks that peep behind the surrounding hills.

The vibrant and much awaited festival month begins.

The most celebrated festival by all Hindus in Nepal is Dashain; a 15-day festival during the month of Kartik (around October – November) according to the Nepalese calendar. It’s a time where all locals gather in their paternal homes for puja - an act of worship including offerings and prayers to Gods - and multiple social gatherings where a variety of traditional food is served and family members gamble against each other over card games.

Just two weeks later begins the second largest

festival for Nepalese Hindus: Tihar. The 5-day festival is a time of offering and worshiping, each day a different God, animal or being. Part of the Tihar festival is the better-known Diwali festival or the Festival of Lights.

it is worshipped to avert grief and death and bring good luck into the household. You can see locals performing their offering in the early morning as part of their daily morning prayers and rituals.

The already chaotic and busy markets become even livelier during this time. Merchants decorate their shops and set up stalls selling traditional foods and sweets, a rainbow of varieties of vermillion powders, an array of lights, gadgets and decorations that will decorate each and every household.

Day two: Khukur Tihar, is the day of the dogs.

Devotees put garlands, tika (a mark made on the forehead with vermilion, as an act of worship and blessing) and offer food to their dogs to acknowledge the relationship between dogs and humans. In this photo our 14-year-old dog is receiving a shower of blessings with flower petals. On this day, stray dogs also receive blessings from locals and passer-bys.

Tihar is synonymous with over-done lights and decorations, boisterous groups singing and dancing from house to house - sometimes carrying a large speaker set at deafening volumes – and firecrackers, (supposedly made illegal) that pop and crack with no warning, triggering neighbourhood dogs to add to the clamour with their barks. Apart from the racket, here’s how Tihar is celebrated.

Day 1: Kaag Tihar, is the day of the crows. It’s observed by offering food and sweets to the crows on the rooftops. The crow is regarded as the messenger of the God of Death and

Day three: Gai Tihar, is the day to worship cows and the Goddess of Wealth, Laxmi. It is also known as Diwali. The cow represents prosperity and wealth and is fed the best grass on this day! At the same time, locals spend their days tirelessly cleaning their homes in preparation for Laxmi puja (religious ritual to offer prayer and blessing to Goddess Laxmi), which is performed in the evening. One can see all windows and doorways decorated with fresh marigold garlands and clay pot oil candles to welcome Goddess Laxmi. >

Young Hindu priest seen worshiping a cow on ‘Cow Tihar’ at Pashupatinath.

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“NEPAL IS NOTHING SHORT OF DIVERSE AND RICH CULTURE, TRADITIONS AND FESTIVALS THAT AROUSE EVERY SENSORY FUNCTION.” Dog receives offerings and blessings on ‘Dog Tihar’.

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TRAVEL

“The 5-day festival is a time of offering and worshipping, each day a different god, animal or being.” er of flower petals and nuts (I had a couple of walnuts fall onto my head!) and finally you are offered the typical Newari offering – boiled egg, dried fish and a piece of meat, together with a shot of local aila (local rice wine) or whiskey in more modern homes.

Tihar festival celebrated at Maya Universe Academy

Day five: Bhai Tika is the day sisters bless their brothers, my favourite day of the festival.

Sisters perform a puja and apply a 7-coloured tika on their brothers’ forehead to wish them a long life and thank them for the protection that they provide. They are given floral garlands, and are fed special food and sweets, exchange gifts, and enjoy the day together. It’s a symbol to strengthen relationships between siblings.

At sunset, a member from each household designs rangoli, a colourful pattern using vermillion powders, rice and flower petals. From this vibrant design, some households paint small feet all the way through the house until the place of worship, where rituals (or puja) are performed, symbolising the feet of Goddess Laxmi entering and blessing the house. The religious holiday is a symbolic celebration of good over evil and the lifting of spiritual darkness.

Day four: Goru Puja, the day of the oxen, is celebrated differently according to region and culture. Most often the Ox is celebrated.

Some others worship their vehicles or other possessions or (even themselves as per Newari culture!) The Newari ethnic groups celebrate the Newari Calendar New Year’s Day (this year being 1139!) Cultural processions and other celebrations are organized to mark the occasion.

On this day in particular, the streets in all cities and villages across Nepal are buzzing with loud music from groups moving from house to house singing and dancing until the early hours in the morning. Their audiences offer the performers some money, presented in a decorated plate with tika (rice mixed with vermillion powder) and rice. Electric, multi-coloured lighting and loud speakers contrast against the traditional handmade clay pot candles and classical musicians wandering the streets.

In the evening, Newars perform Mha puja, the worship of one’s own divine self for good fortune throughout the coming year. It is celebrated with a ritual whereby a pattern is first designed with yellow powder on the ground, after being wiped with a mixture of mud and cow dung (cow dung features on many occasions and rituals in Nepali culture for its purity, I still have trouble grasping this!). The pattern is decorated with a variety of nuts, fruits and grains, and garlands. One family member pedantically performs the rituals where you receive a show-

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Nepal is nothing short of multi-ethnic diversity and rich culture, traditions and festivals that arouse every sensory function. A trip to Nepal should definitely include a lot of local activity outside of the mainstream trekking and tours that your agent will suggest. Plan a visit around festivals happening at the time of your visit and arrange means to participate.

Remember to always respect cultures and traditions. Some festivals are not for the faint hearted especially where animal sacrifices are involved; luckily, these are also becoming less and few. [ V ]

CUISINE

IF YOU WANT TO MAKE A REAL STATEMENT TRY YOUR HAND AT THESE DISHES PREPARED BY THE TALENTED CHEFS AT CORITHIA PALACE ATTARD

Photography by Tonio Lombardi Executive Sous Chef, Jonathan Zammit.

Chef de Partie, Claire Giordmaina.

Pastry Chef, Mark Mc Bride.

Props from LOFT

IT UP

Starter: Langoustines asparagus, duck zabaglione, za’atar coated crispy egg, beurre noisette dressing by Chef de Partie, Claire Giordmaina.

PG. 94

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CUISINE

Dessert: Chocolate and Raspberry Tart, Grape Sorbet by Pastry Chef, Mark Mc Bride. Pg 97

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CUISINE Wine Pairing: Jacob’s Creek Classic Shiraz This Shiraz is a medium bodied wine with generous aromas of pepper, licorice and plum, leaving a soft textured finish on the palate. Available from Farsonsdirect

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CUISINE

40-DAY AGED BEEF RIB EYE, BEEF CHEEK MOUSSAKA, GARLIC AND BARREL AGED FETA PUREE, BEEF BROTH DASHI Nasturtium and Vanilla Vinaigrette 120g Nasturtium petals 250g white balsamic 1g vanilla pod 200g extra virgin olive oil Seasoning Method: Place the nasturtium petals, balsamic and vanilla in a vacuum bag, seal and macerate.

Allow the flavors to develop overnight. When ready to use, whisk in the olive oil.

Garlic and Barrel Aged Feta Puree 225g garlic, peeled 500ml milk 35g barrel-aged feta Method: Blanch garlic in boiling water, drain and refresh. Place the garlic in the milk and bring it to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for three minutes. With a slotted spoon remove the garlic from the milk and place in a blender with the barrel-aged feta. Blend to a smooth consistency. If necessary, add some reserved brine from the feta cheese. Pass through a fine sieve, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Beef Dashi 60g smoked pancetta 1 shallot, sliced 1 garlic clove, chopped 20ml Cabernet Sauvignon vinegar 375ml beef stock (braising liquid from the beef cheek) 50ml Kombu dashi (Japanese stock) 20ml extra virgin olive oil Method: Heat a little olive oil in a deep pan.

Add the pancetta and cook over a medium flame until golden brown. Add the shallots and garlic and cook for a further few minutes until all the ingredients are golden brown.

Add the kombu dashi and vinegar and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer until reduced by half. Pour in the beef stock and bring back to simmer. Keep skimming to remove any impurities.

Remove the pan off the heat and strain the dashi through a muslin cloth. Check seasoning and adjust if needed.

Beef Cheek Moussaka 1 beef cheek 10ml extra virgin olive oil for cooking ½ carrot peeled, chopped ½ onion chopped ½ celery stick chopped 250ml red wine 750ml veal stock 750ml chicken stock Method: Remove the sinew from the cheek. Sear

in a pan for 2 minutes on each side until evenly browned. Add the chopped vegetables and stir occasionally for 8-10 minutes. Pour in the red wine, reduce and add the stocks. Braise for 8 hours in an oven at 80˚c.

Tomato compote: 1/2 onion finely chopped 2 garlic gloves chopped 1/2 eggplant, peeled and chopped ½ red pepper, deseeded and chopped ½ yellow pepper, deseeded and chopped ½ green pepper, deseeded and chopped ½ red chili deseeded and chopped 40g root ginger 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds Extra virgin Olive oil to cook 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds 5 fresh tomatoes chopped Reduced white balsamic Method: Heat a little olive oil in a pan, add the onions, garlic and sweat for 5 minutes, keep stirring. Add all the other chopped vegetables with the chili and ginger. Sweat the vegetables for another 10 minutes and add spice seeds. Tip in the fresh chopped tomatoes. Continue to cook over a medium heat for about 20 minutes, until the tomatoes have cooked down and the mixture is quite thick. Add a splash of white balsamic vinegar reduction and season.

Baby eggplant confit: 6 baby eggplant 2 pcs, 1cm thick eggplant cut lengthwise 500ml extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic Sprig thyme Sprig rosemary 2 pcs black peppercorn Method: Place the baby eggplant in a small saucepan and pour in enough olive oil to cover them. Add the garlic, herbs and peppercorns. Place over medium heat, bring the oil to a simmer and then reduce the heat to as low as it can go. Cook for about 45 minutes, until the eggplants are soft and tender. For the sliced eggplant, pan sear with olive oil, garlic and thyme. When cooked, transfer the eggplants on kitchen towel to soak up some oil. Remove the skin of the baby eggplant.

Potato Crumble 200g russet potatoes 300ml vegetable oil 10g fresh oregano Method: Peel and cut into a fine julienne, place in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water.

Transfer to a kitchen towel and wring out the excess water. Heat the oil in a large pot over a medium heat. Add the potatoes and whisk continuously thus breaking up the starch and

preventing from burning. Strain and drain on a paper towel, roughly chop and while hot, season and add the fresh oregano.

Assembly of Moussaka: Line a up a terrine mold with baking paper. Start the first layer by compressing the baby eggplant followed with a spoonful of the tomato compote.

Layer some pulled beef cheek and finish with the pan -eared eggplant. Compress the moussaka, remove from the mold and garnish with the potato crumble.

Butter Sous Vide Rib-Eye 400g rib-eye 600g clarified butter 1 sprig thyme 1 garlic clove, crushed Method: Preheat immersion circulator to 53°c with 600ml clarified butter, sprig of rosemary and garlic. Sear rib eye in a hot pan. Immerse in the butter and leave to cook for 45 minutes.

Remove the steak and pat dry. Place on a resting rack and caramelize the sides using a blow-torch for a char flavor. Slice 1cm in thickness for each portion, lengthwise.

Summer vegetables: 100g carrots 100g baby turnips 100g dark courgette 300ml chicken stock 50g salted butter ½ lemon 5g butterfly sorrel for garnish Method: Bring a pot with stock to a boil. Prepare vegetables using a solferino scoop.

Blanch the vegetables separately for 2 minutes until they are tender. Use a slotted spoon to remove the vegetables from the stock.

In a pan, do an emulsification of chicken stock, butter and ½ juice of a lemon. Season to taste.

Garnish and assembly For the side dish, spoon some tomato compote in a mold ring. Dress the baby kale and nasturtium flower with the vanilla vinaigrette. Build the salad on top of the tomato compote.

Place the beef moussaka on a warmed serving plate, then lay a piece of carved rib-eye with a sprinkle of fleur de sel.

Quenelle a small mound of garlic and feta puree.

Arrange neatly the summer vegetables and garnish with the sorrel.

Serve with individual beef dashi on the side.

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CUISINE Continued from Pg 90

LANGOUSTINES, ASPARAGUS, DUCK ZABAGLIONE, ZA’ATAR COATED CRISPY EGG, BEURRE NOISETTE DRESSING Duck consommé for sabayon 750 gr Duck bones 25g celery, large dice 50g onion, large dice 25g carrots, large dice 9g garlic, minced ½ bay leaf 0.5g fresh Thyme 150ml water 375ml white chicken stock 10ml vegetable oil for roasting Method: Use a cleaver or the thickest part of a large knife to chop the duck bones into small pieces. Roast the bones in the oven set to 180°C until golden. In a separate tin, roast the vegetables in the same oven until golden. Once cooked, combine the bones with the vegetables and add the 9g of garlic, pinch of thyme and bay leaf.

Continue to roast for 2 additional minutes.

Meanwhile, add the water and chicken stock to a pan and bring to the boil. Drain any excess fat that comes from the bones and add along with the vegetables to the stock pot and simmer for 20 minutes. Drain, pass through muslin cloth and allow to set in the fridge. Once cool, remove the fat from the top when set.

For the clarification, remove the fat and sinew from the duck breast. Roughly chop and place into a food processor. Blend with the carrot to form a minced paste, remove and place into a bowl.

Whisk the egg white very lightly to break up slightly. Place the cold duck stock into a pan and warm on the stove. Once lukewarm, whisk the egg whites into the meat until thoroughly combined and whisk the entire mixture to disperse into the stock.

Line a sieve with a piece of muslin and gently ladle the crust into the sieve and then slowly ladle the liquid over the crust. Allow time for the liquid to pass through the crust. Pour back liquid in pot and reduce by half, not boiling.

Duck Zabaglione 2 egg yolks 60ml of duck consommé 1 pinch of salt ½ lemon, juiced Method: Combine the egg yolks and consommé in a bowl. Whisk, with a balloon whisk, over a bain-marie, set to 90°C. Take off the heat, then continue whisking until it reaches 70°c. It should be light and fluffy. First season with salt, then with lemon juice.

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Za’ atar Crisp Fried Hen Egg 4 eggs 1 tablespoon fresh thyme- crushed 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seed 1 tablespoon Sumac ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon Aleppo chili flakes 100g panko breadcrumbs 1ltr vegetable oil for frying 15g plain flour for pane 15ml beaten eggs for pane Method: Soft boil the hen eggs for 5 minutes and chill in cold water. Peel the eggs carefully and pat them dry. Pass them through seasoned flour, beaten egg and panko za’ atar crumbs. Heat the oil for deep-frying to 170˚c. Deep fry the eggs for 1.5 minutes until light golden and drain on absorbent paper. Season with a pinch of sea salt.

Crisp Duck Skin Skin of ½ duck breast 3g chopped rosemary Method: Preheat the oven to 180°c. Lay the skins skin-side down and scrape off any excess fat and remaining meat from the insides. Place skins stretched out flat on a greaseproof-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky salt. Lay a second sheet of greaseproof paper over the skins then weigh down with another tray.

Place in the oven for 10–15 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain the skins on kitchen roll and sprinkle with sea salt and rosemary.

Beurre Noisette Vinaigrette 125g unsalted butter 5ml sherry vinegar Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Method: Heat a frying pan over a medium-high heat, add the butter and cook for a few minutes, whisking gently. The butter will foam then subside, but you’ll need to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Watch for lightly browned specks forming on the butter and you’ll also get a nutty aroma. Take the pan off the heat at this point and let it cool down to prevent further cooking.

Swirl to combine the sherry vinegar, and then remove from the heat immediately. Season with salt and pepper.

Pan seared Langoustine 6 medium langoustines 30ml vegetable oil 10ml langoustine oil 1 clove garlic Method: Blanch the langoustines in salted boiling water for 10 seconds. Drain and place into a bowl of ice to cool down. Once cool, peel the langoustines, insert a skewer to keep the

langoustine straight and place on a tray.

In a pan, add oil and butter on medium heat. Add garlic and place the langoustine and sear for a minute. Baste with the brown butter. Season.

White Asparagus 8 pieces white Asparagus Method: Start by peeling away the outer skin of the asparagus and chopping away the hard, woody base. Half fill a large pan with duck consommé and bring to the boil, add the white asparagus and cook until tender. Dress the asparagus with the beurre noisette vinaigrette and season.

Salad Garnish Centre leaves from French curly endive Micro cress ½ roasted hazelnuts Method: To dress the plate, arrange the asparagus and langoustines around the edge of the plate.

Spoon a generous amount of zabaglione around the ingredients leaving room in the centre. Dress the curly endive and cress with the beurre noisette dressing and make a nest in the centre of the plate. Cut the top of the crisp fried egg to expose the soft yolk and place in the middle, scatter over the crisp duck skin.

Serve immediately.

Wine Pairing: Jacob’s Creek’s Sauvignon Blanc Lively fruit flavours of passionfruit and citrus prevail across the palate, enhanced by the fresh natural acidity which provides vibrancy and length on the finish Available from Farsonsdirect

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Available from leading pharmacies and all Scholl Foothealth Centres or buy online and get FREE DELIVERY!. schollcentre.com

CUISINE

CHOCOLATE AND RASPBERRY TART, GRAPE SORBET Makes 6 small tarts

Continued from Pg 91

90g butter, frozen 220g plain flour 40g cocoa powder 80g icing sugar 1 pinch salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 egg yolks Method: Place flour, cocoa, icing sugar, salt and baking powder in a large bowl; mix well.

Beat the egg yolks with the vanilla extract in a small bowl; add to the dry mixture and mix with a silicon spatula.

Remove the butter from the freezer and coarsely grate it into the bowl. Use your fingertips to quickly combine into a ball of dough, adding a tablespoon of iced water if it’s too dry.

Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 1 hour before using. Line tarts and bake.

Cut out squares of sweet pastry to use for garnish For the filling 400ml double cream 400g dark chocolate 160g raspberry puree 2 eggs 6 raspberry per tart for filling, 2 per tart for garnish Method: For the filling, put the cream and raspberry puree in a saucepan, bring to a boil and pour over beaten eggs. Strain and pour onto chocolate. Mix well until smooth and silky. Dot the raspberries over the base, pour over the chocolate and chill for at least 5 hours until firm, or overnight.

Grape Sorbet 550ml grape 150g caster sugar Juice 2 lemons, sieved Method: Bring the grape juice to the boil in a small pan, pour it over the sugar in a bowl and stir until dissolved, and then add the lemon juice.

Leave to cool completely, then cover and chill the solution for several hours or overnight.

“This chocolate and raspberr y tar t, grape sorbet is a joy to make and a delight to eat – Test your skills and give it a go”

To freeze: if using an ice-cream maker, follow the instructions for the machine, then scoop the sorbet into a container, seal and freeze for several hours or overnight.

To serve: if the sorbet has frozen very hard, you may need to remove it to the fridge a few minutes before serving.

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PEOPLE

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MALTA’S FAVOURITE COMEDIAN MAKES STAND UP HISTORY

n a cold evening at the start of the Festive season, the Vamp team found themselves warming up with laughter at the largest stand-up comedy show by a local comedian.

With over 700 people laughing harmoniously at Malta’s extremely funny and entertaining man of the hour; Kevin Naudi.

This was, in fact, the second show we attended where the very same comedian had a large group of people gasping for air between his jokes.

However, this time it was to a much larger crowd in one of the grandest halls Malta has to offer, which seemed fitting for the occasion.

Kevin Naudi rightly named the show, No Limits since this would be his largest audience for both the comedian and the local stand up comedy scene.

The name for the show came around as Kevin

would explain later throughout the performance since he never thought that cracking jokes could be shared on such a high level.

All he knew was that he always took pleasure in making people laugh, whether it was with his wife, family or friends.

Now he found himself in front of 700 people, some faces which were familiar and some which were new laughs in the audience.

Looking around us, we could see couples exchange looks between one another in agreement or at times embarrassment as Kevin laughed on with the crowd in between sketches.

As Mr Naudi manoeuvred around the stage at the Mediterranean Conference Centre he recites common daily situations which you cannot help but relate to. He depicts situations which we all encounter on a daily basis like arguing with your four-year-old child or even with your significant other.

Kevin seems to be edging a new space in the Maltese scene of entertainment which has caught on very swiftly. It’s his quick wit and amusing gestures on stage which put the crowd at ease, making them feel that they are not alone in everyday incidents which are only logical through laughter.

As one of the firsts, if not the first, Kevin has gathered Maltese anecdotes we all know and love and cleverly put them up on stage. He also dabbles in wisecracks about parenting, marriage and everything in between.

We often purchase tickets to watch a foreign comedian who is visiting Malta on tour but watching someone Maltese take the same leap is quite exciting.

To watch Kevin Naudi take on the stand-up comedy scene in Malta, on a new journey which is still unexplored is intriguing, to say the least, and is definitely one to watch.

We at Vamp look forward to the next show!

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THE 90–DAY HOME-FITNESS & WELLBEING PROGRAM EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT

Once you have registered onto The Six Pack Revolution 90 day programme you will be added to a private Facebook group consisting of approximately 100 participants. You will receive meal plans and the recipes and you will be provided with guidance and support on how to effectively follow the plan. The meal plans are suitable for everybody, as all can be adapted to meet various dietary conditions and preferences. The Six Pack Revolution also provides you with a fitness plan which includes 15 minute daily exercise and you will be given 2 challenges per week which will take between 30-40 minutes. An outstanding feature of this program is that it can be done from anywhere in the world.

There is no size or fitness limitation on this program and you must be at least 18 years of age to take part; The Six Pack Revolution is suitable for everybody. Currently there are participants ranging from 18 to 73 years of age; there are athletes and also those who are limited due to their weight or condition.

Variations of exercises are provided to those with injury or other physical conditions, whilst the program also offers alternative meal plans for vegetarians, vegans, pescatarians and also various intolerances. The SPR has also recently announced that the Maltese participants are being offered a meal prepping service

by Body Transformation Malta (The SPR’s Malta representatives) in collaboration with The Maltese Cook. Body Transformation Malta are also offering personal

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training and group training sessions for SPR participants locally.

The SPR teaches you how to view things differently and approach all obstacles or challenges with an “I can” mentality through the constant guidance of the professional team of SPR coaches. It truly is an inspirational program like no other and although named “The Six Pack Revolution”; achieving a six pack is far from the programs only success; physical, emotional and mental well-being will be your greatest gift. The Six Pack Revolution offers a holistic approach to wellbeing, “we work on the body and mind; instilling a healthy perspective on life, balancing hormones and blood sugar levels, burning excess fat and building lean muscle mass.”

The right balance of optimal nutrition and its healing effect on the body has helped many participants suffering from various ailments, they have seen a tremendous improvement and in many cases a complete recovery from their illness or disorder. This is because when the body’s hormones are in balance, the body works at its optimum and it burns fuel (fat) efficiently. It also builds and maintains muscle mass and in many cases heals itself. The SPR has reported cases of participants seeing huge improvements and in some cases overcoming type 1 and 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, psoriasis, eczema, IBS, Crohn’s disease and even scoliosis.

This is why all over the world, despite our amazing visual transformations, people are discovering that The Six Pack Revolution is “so much more than a six pack” and also why participants see results which have never been achieved on any other program in such a short time span.

The people behind the SPR also has an adapted program for children; The Strong, Powerful and Resilient Juniors program known as SPR juniors. This is a primary school initiative designed in response to the rising obesity and mental health crisis that young children are currently facing. SPR juniors is a 39 week program activity for schools that provides teaching staff with highly active lessons to help pupils reach their 60 minutes of activity a day. Through the programs challenges, pupils are offered the right balance of teamwork and competitiveness. At the end of each lesson, pupils will practice carious mindfulness techniques, developing a toolbox for managing their own emotions and mental health effectively and calmly. Body Transformation Malta will shortly be piloting SPR juniors in a primary school here in Malta.

Spr Founder Scott Harrison

The Six Pack Revolution is a unique on-line program providing fitness routines, meal plans, recipes, constant coaching, support and guidance all from the comfort of your own home. This means no more gym memberships or hassle to get to the gym.

TRENDING

VAMP SAT DOWN WITH SPR FOUNDER SCOTT HARRISON AND MALTA REPRESENTATIVES (BODY TRANSFORMATION MALTA IAW SIX PACK REVOLUTION) MELISSA AND KAREN, TO GET THE SCOOP BEHIND THE PROGRAM. What made you start this program?

S: It all began on the rare occasion I got to pick the children up from school in Dec 2015. I was standing in the playground looking at all the other parents thinking to myself that so many of them - if not most of them - were overweight, bloated, looking poisoned, extremely unhealthy, and most of all, tired. As my kids ran up to me I realised I was also that person; I was the fat dad in the playground. It was in that moment I told myself that my New Years Resolution just a few weeks later was that I was going to get a ‘Six Pack’ and I was going to get it in 90 days.

I held myself accountable by blogging this journey and a few friends joined me.

Before long there were 37 of us in the group. I continued to research on nutrition and found a way of fuelling the body with scientifically proven methods and that delivers outstanding results. 19 of them lasted until the end and the results were outstanding.

I was then asked by many more people - and this time 120 people joined. I continued to tweak the methods to bring the results even quicker and healthier. My plan did exactly that.

What does the program cost?

Find out more information at : thesixpackrevolution.com Follow The Six Pack Revolution on: Facebook: The Six Pack Revolution, Body Transformation Malta IAW The Six Pack Revolution Instagram: @TheSixPackRevolution– @bodytransformationmalta Twitter: @6PackRevolution

How did you become a coach?

M&K: We were contacted by Scott, who told us that since we have inspired so many people locally, he would like us to be part of his team. He felt that we would be able to support others in the groups and also support people locally.

How did you manage to juggle family life and the program?

M: When I signed up I was in my final year reading for a masters. I was also a full time primary teacher and juggled family life. The program kept me motivated and focused during my studies. It also helped me preplan my meals so I didn’t turn to junk while leading a busy life and the exercises were easy to fit in and a good way to unwind during a very stressful time of my studies.

K: I find the program helps me be more structured in my life; giving me energy and focus. I train before the day starts but it doesn’t take up much time. My family eats the same meals with me and are inspired to lead a more healthy and active life. I would say I don’t have to juggle anything; rather it helped me become more organized.

Does it work for everyone?

M&K: The program works for everyone who sticks to the plan and follows the instructions given. The coaches offer daily support and information so sticking to the plan is not complicated at all.

What do you need to follow the program?

S: If you join The Six Pack Revolution when we launch the Early Bird Promotion each wave then its £119. The regular price is £139

M&K: A wish to make a change in the way you look and eat and a desire to focus on being healthy and strong and you are good to go.

Is the program guided by instructors and health professional to talk to in case of queries?

Does the program cater for everyone?

S: We have fully qualified nutritionists, GP, Doctor of Chiropractic and Psychotherapist on the SPR team as well as Personal Trainers of course

M&K: It caters for all ages and all fitness levels. Currently, participants’ age groups range from the 20s to 70s and body size, shape and fitness level is irrelevant. Everyone can do it. Even if you have never exercised you can move at your own pace and get alternatives for anything that you cannot do until your fitness improves.

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WHAT IF WE PROMISED YOU THAT A 15-MINUTE APPOINTMENT COULD LEAVE YOU LOOKING AND FEELING LIKE YOU’VE ALREADY BEEN ON VACATION?

Words by Emma Moore

Niumee’s Aesthetic physician, Dr Pillow remarks “over the last few years I have seen a dramatic increase in procedures that have little downtime so that patients look refreshed and well rested… most patients don’t want their partner or friends to know that they have done these procedures but just want a confidence boost… They want to look good but don’t want to look fake.

NIUMEE’S TOP 10 ‘TWEAK–MENTS’

REFRESH YOUR LOOK FOR SUMMER WITH THESE LUNCH TIME QUICK FIXES

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HERE ARE OUR TOP 10 ‘TWEAK-MENTS’ 1. BOTULINUM TOXIN AND FILLERS Botulinum Toxins and Hyaluronic Acid Fillers don’t have to be noticeable; the best kind, leave you with a lasting confidence and glow.

Botulinum Toxins are commonly used to treat: crows feet and wrinkles around the eyes, forehead and frown lines, and to improve the natural brow arch. Did you know that Botulinum Toxin could also treats excessive sweating (Hyperhidrosis)? So say goodbye to those unsightly summer sweat patches!

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers are used to increase volume and improve facial symmetry.

The latest trend of treatments include: – Liquid face-lifts, involving 8 strategically placed facial injections that can literally turn back the clock in your lunch break.

– Non Surgical Nose jobs where small amounts of filler can be placed at key points of the nose to create more facial harmony.

– Lip fillers, leaving naturally plump kissable lips… no duck lips in sight!

2. SKIN BOOSTERS The latest technology of skin boosters and Hyaluronic Acid injections are used to improve skin quality, texture, skin tightness.

Apart from giving your face THAT glow, skin boosters can be used for: The neck. We often pamper and polish our face but neglect the skin on our neck and this can be a telltale aging sign.

Hands. In combination with a Pico Laser we can remove sunspots and improve skin quality with skin boosters.

3. LASER HAIR REMOVAL Let’s face it… Who doesn’t want smooth legs, always! It is a huge confidence boost to permanently rid anywhere on your body of unwanted hair.

Laser hair removal is nothing new in Malta; We always ensure that a doctor performs our hair laser due to risk of burning the skin.

Always start laser hair removal sessions during winter and avoid sun exposure for 2 weeks before and after.

ultimate hair treatment: Keratin. It is a smoothing treatment that seals the hair cuticle with a coating of protein that eliminates frizz, and adds softness and shine. It can even reduce the drying time of the hair.

9. LASH EXTENSIONS

4. SMART LIPO- BODY CONTOURING We can all admit we have a lump, bump or two we do not like on our body. Smart Lipo removes that extra ‘tyre’ or stubborn fat in a quick procedure. Smart Lipo is performed under a local anesthetic and requires only one or two stitches per area. There is very little down time and you can return to work the following day. A garment must be worn for a week following the procedure, so best to do this while the temperatures are still cool.

5. SCLEROTHERAPY Don’t be shy this summer to show off you lovely legs. Sclerotherapy can effectively remove ‘spider veins’ from your legs and it takes just a few minutes. Stockings will need to be worn for 48 hours following the procedure to prevent re-occurrence.

6. SIGNATURE BROWS BY SUE CARUANA As we age our once defined brows loose their shape and become less noticeable. With Semi Permanent eyebrows you can wake up with perfect makeup and zero fuss. The best thing is your eyebrows wont melt as you sweat in the Maltese sun. Don’t be scared …anesthetic cream is applied prior to treatment so there is little discomfort.

7. SPA PEDICURE It’s time to prepare your feet for sandals and flip-flops. But with our 1.5 hour spa pedicure this is no chore… melt into the chair while we scrub, scrape, polish, and pamper your feet leaving your toes sparkling. We even have a quick 30-minute lunchtime fix for your toes too with our Gel Polish Pedi.

Lash extensions are booming in popularity and demand has dramatically increased since last year. Easy to see why… simply waking up with beautiful long full eyelashes is something dreams are made of. Lash extensions can be customised to every customer and come in different lengths and thicknesses.

10. ELEMIS BIOTEC LINE ERASER FACIAL Elemis Biotec Facials are relaxing, indulgent and work miracles too. This facial targets wrinkles and energises the skin using micro current pulses and red/blue light technology to powerfully rejuvenate the skin.

STAY SAFE WHEN CONSIDERING ‘TWEAK-MENTS’ We advise to only have Aesthetic ‘Tweakments’ by a medical professional only. Do your research. Take your time and investigate whom you are going to consult with. Cheaper does not mean better - quality comes at a cost. Do not be fooled by discounts or special offers.

“The key to Anti-aging is prevention; sunscreen must be worn every day, using Vitamin C will help to improve skin collagen production, suppress pigmentation and kill free radical (that speed up the aging process), drink PLENTY of water, get good rest and always avoid smoking!”

Dr. Pillow.

Book a consult by calling: 20320100.

Visit Niumee at: Centris Business Centre, 1st floor, Triq il Palazz L’ahmar, Mriehel, Facebook: www.facebook.com/niumee www.niumee.com

8. KERATIN HAIR TREATMENT During the summer months your hair can become an unruly mess with a mind of its own due to heat and humidity. Beat this with the

concept esthétique

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SPOIL YOUR SELF

HERE’S ALL YOU NEED THIS SPRING

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1. Aqua Allegoria Coconut Fizz Guerlain’s Aqua Allegoria Coconut Fizz perfume for Women highlights a bouquet of fragrant bitter, citrus and aromatic scented tones that bring a fresh, bright and pleasing sensation. It leaves a lingering quality of softer fragranced sweet, green and woody hints that hide an essence of exotic, elegant and light feelings. Available at Franks.

2. Music Noble Inspired by Oriental lands, this creation by Guerlain’s perfumer, Thierry Wasser, shines a light on one of the most mysterious ingredients in Perfumery: musk. The depth of musk blends with a magnificent rose and a vibrant cedar note.

Available at Franks.

3. Ready in a Flash Eyes & Brows Palette

4. Glow 2 Go Blush & Highlighter Duo

Brighten and sculpt for picture-perfect eyes. This lightweight palette perfectly illuminates and sculpts the eyes with a range of matte and iridescent shades. Apply on eyelids and brows.

Available from all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

Contours, sculpts and highlights the face. A multiuse highlighter and blusher that is travel friendly and easy to apply. Two great duos to choose from that you can mix and match to accentuate your best features. Available in 2 shades from all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

5. Guerlain Terracotta Contour and Glow Palette Create a sun- kissed look with the complete Contour and Glow palette. The all in one palette with natural and long lasting universal shades will give you that healthy glow with the easily buildable intensities. Available at Franks.

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“Bring back your healthy natural glow - Hydrate,

Complete your skincare routine with SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF providing powerful antioxidant protection to your skin. Designed for daytime use, this antioxidant serum neutralizes free radicals to prevent signs of skin aging. Exclusively available from Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre in Ta’ Xbiex

Contour, and Breathe.

9. SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF | Sun Protection

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6. myClarins RE-BOOST Matifying Hydrating Cream Formulated with powerful fruit extracts for happy, shine-free skin! Its Healthy Skin (In and Out) complex now also has nourishing organic coconut water and purifying Alpenrose. When your life is non-stop, Clarin’s know how important it is to have a day cream that can keep up! Available from all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

7. myClarins RE-CHARGE Relaxing Sleep Mask RE-CHARGE is our go-to when we’ve been anything but saintly to our skin. Super soothing, this plant-based overnight facemask is packed with acerola seed, fig and huang qi extracts to detox and hydrate. Before you hit the hay, apply RE-CHARGE to just-cleansed skin, massaging evenly across your face and neck. Available from all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

8. myClarins RE-MOVE Purifying Cleansing Gel With 91% ingredients of natural origin, Clarin’s foaming gel cleanser removes even the most stubborn makeup. And it doesn’t stop there. It also purifies deep within the skin and helps protect against the potential drying effects of hard water. Available from all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

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10. Lumière Marine Brightening Cream & Fluid (Smoothes - Evens) Rich in Brown Algae extract, these everyday treatments are powerful shields against environmental oxidative stress. Polysaccharides with a high molecular weight create a resistant network on the surface of the skin to cope with aggressive everyday pollutants. The protected skin becomes gradually and visibly smoother, skin tone evens out and brightens and radiance is naturally restored. With a sheer, light texture and gentle notes of cotton and white flowers, the Lumière Marine Brightening Fluid minimises dark spots and uneven skin tone daily. It is suitable for normal to combination skin with pigment irregularities. A creamier version is available for normal to dry skin with the Brightening Cream. Depending on skin type, apply to a cleansed, makeup-free face in the morning before the Sunscreen SPF50+ and in the evening 10.

12. EPIGRAN – Naturally Beautiful Dr. Felix Grandel researched into wheatgerm, and as a result discovered its vital nutrients that have a smoothing, firming effect on the skin. The breakthrough - EPIGRAN - is at the heart of DR. GRANDEL Elements of Nature skin care series providing a unique combination of naturalness, tradition and effectiveness. Available in Beauty Salons & Spas. Trade Enquiries: Carewell by Reactilab. Tel: 9982 8498. Email: sales@reactilab.com

14. Bathe Your Body in BEAUTYGEN The BEAUTYGEN Snow Algae Extract present in this ultra-modern product, activates the skin’s ‘beauty gene’, stimulating the skin’s own renewal process, improving elasticity and protecting collagen fibres, providing intensive and long-lasting moisture, giving the skin a harmonizing soft glow.

DR. GRANDEL - In love with perfection.

Available in Beauty Salons & Spas. Trade Enquiries: Carewell by Reactilab. Tel: 9982 8498.

Email: sales@reactilab.com

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11. Lumière Marine Brightening Correcting Serum Rich in Brown Algae extract and Brightening Agents, the Brightening Correcting Serum simultaneously targets a reduction in dark spots and other pigment irregularities and evens and smoothens the skin. Trade Enquiries: SV Beauty. Tel: +356 25467400

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13. Guerlain L’Essentiel Foundation L’Essentiel foundation combines naturalness & make-up performance with 97% naturally derived ingredients that lasts for 16 hours. The natural glow formula lets the skin breathe; hydrates, balances and protects the skin from pollution. Available at Franks.

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Eye Lid Surger y for a youthful appearance 15. Polaar Arctic Cotton Gentle Scrub The Polaar IcePure Arctic Cotton Gentle Scrub contains Arctic Cotton, which has hydrating, detoxifying and soothing properties. Its mechanical dual peeling and polishing action ensures instantaneous results. The creamy formula preserves the skin’s hydrolipidic film, even for the most sensitive skins. Exclusively distributed by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery Ltd. 16. DR. GRANDEL’S Protection Uv Spf 50 Serum This silky light serum cares for the skin from UV exposure and light-induced, premature skin aging. UV filters and Vitamin E harmoniously protect the skin from unnatural aging caused by free radicals in the surrounding environment. Vitamin E also supports the moisture binding capacity of our skin. Available in Beauty Salons & Spas. Trade Enquiries: Carewell by Reactilab.

Tel: 9982 8498. Email: sales@reactilab.com 17. Mon Guerlain Bloom of Rose Mon Guerlain is a tribute to today’s strong, free and sensual femininity, inspired by Angelina Jolie. The Eau de Toilette Bloom of Rose is a floral composition of Sambac jasmine and Carla lavender and combined with neroli and rose to form a radiant and lively fragrance. Available at Franks.

18. New Thalgo - Brightening Lumière Marine Treatment THALGO’ new treatment has a progressive triple exfoliation, made to correct the skin, smooth and reduce the visible appearance of pigmentation plus gives the skin an even skin tone.

Trade Enquiries: SV Beauty.

Tel: +356 25467400

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As we get older, our skin starts to lose elasticity as a natural part of the aging process. Since the face and the delicate skin around the eyes are often more exposed to environmental factors (such as sunlight, wind, pollution, etc.), it is often the first part of the body to show visible signs of aging.

As the skin around the eyes loses its elasticity, the pull of gravity will cause the stretched skin to sag, above and below the eyes. Eye Lid Surgery, or Blepharoplasty, is typically performed by removing any excess skin and tissue from the eyelid area. Additionally, the underlying eyelid muscles are adjusted and smoothened and support is created for the surrounding eyelid tissue in order to improve the ‘droopiness’ of upper eyelids and/or to eliminate the ‘puffiness’ of eye bags in the lower eyelids.

While opting for a blepharoplasty is a big decision, when done correctly it can lift your appearance dramatically. Besides, recovering from eyelid surgery is much easier than you might expect - you will feel pretty good almost immediately. Schedule a consultation with our plastic surgeons at Persona to learn more about this popular procedure.

Mr John Cauchi Persona Operating Theatre Manager persona.com.mt 21 340 366 info@persona.com.mt

UPDATE

TAILORED TAILORED TO TO CUSTOMER CUSTOMER NEED: NEED: FORD FORD REVEALS REVEALS NEW NEW ELECTRIFIED ELECTRIFIED VEHICLE LINE-UP AT ‘GO ELECTRIC’ EXPERIENCE IN AMSTERDAM VEHICLE LINE-UP AT ‘GO ELECTRIC’ EXPERIENCE IN AMSTERDAM options will be offered, delivering one of the most encompassing line-ups of options will be offered, delivering one of the most encompassing line-ups of electrified options for European customers of any manufacturer. electrified options for European customers of any manufacturer.

Ford Hybrid and all-electric models utilise a range of powertrain technologies Ford Hybrid and all-electric models utilise a range of powertrain technologies and technical solutions to tailor performance and capability to surpass customer and technical solutions to tailor performance and capability to surpass customer expectations and reflect diverse operating scenarios for different vehicles. expectations and reflect diverse operating scenarios for different vehicles.

The series-hybrid configuration of the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid and The series-hybrid configuration of the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid and Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid further adapts the mains-chargeable battery and Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid further adapts the mains-chargeable battery and electric motor configuration to suit the application – using a fuel-efficient petrol electric motor configuration to suit the application – using a fuel-efficient petrol engine solely to recharge the battery, with no physical connection the wheels. engine solely to recharge the battery, with no physical connection the wheels.

An advanced line-up of Ford electrified vehicles marks a new milestone for An advanced line-up of Ford electrified vehicles marks a new milestone for Ford and its customers, the company today announced at a special “Go Electric” Ford and its customers, the company today announced at a special “Go Electric” experience in Amsterdam, Netherlands. experience in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A new range of models under the Ford Hybrid banner feature sophisticated A new range of models under the Ford Hybrid banner feature sophisticated mild-, full- and plug-in hybrid powertrains to enhance fuel-efficiency and driving mild-, full- and plug-in hybrid powertrains to enhance fuel-efficiency and driving experiences for customers in Europe – bringing Ford’s brand values of trust, experiences for customers in Europe – bringing Ford’s brand values of trust, affordability and fun-to-drive to electrified vehicles. affordability and fun-to-drive to electrified vehicles.

Ford unveiled at “Go Electric” the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid variant of the company’s Ford unveiled at “Go Electric” the Kuga Plug-In Hybrid variant of the company’s all-new mid-size SUV – Ford’s most electrified vehicle ever and the first Ford to all-new mid-size SUV – Ford’s most electrified vehicle ever and the first Ford to offer mild-hybrid, full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid, powertrains. offer mild-hybrid, full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid, powertrains.

The all-new Explorer Plug-In Hybrid seven-seat SUV and the new The all-new Explorer Plug-In Hybrid seven-seat SUV and the new Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid eight-seat people-mover today made their Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid eight-seat people-mover today made their global debuts – each offering pure-electric driving capability alongside the driving global debuts – each offering pure-electric driving capability alongside the driving range and freedom offered by a traditional combustion engine. range and freedom offered by a traditional combustion engine.

Ford also revealed the new Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid Ford also revealed the new Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid models that feature sophisticated mild-hybrid technology for reduced CO2 models that feature sophisticated mild-hybrid technology for reduced CO2 emissions, optimised fuel-efficiency, and a more responsive and rewarding driving emissions, optimised fuel-efficiency, and a more responsive and rewarding driving experience. experience.

In addition, Ford announced that a new all-electric Transit will join the company’s In addition, Ford announced that a new all-electric Transit will join the company’s line-up of electrified commercial vehicles in 2022. Designed to deliver pureline-up of electrified commercial vehicles in 2022. Designed to deliver pureelectric propulsion, the new van will contribute to cleaner, quieter towns and electric propulsion, the new van will contribute to cleaner, quieter towns and cities, and reduced running costs for business and operators. cities, and reduced running costs for business and operators.

Ford’s Mustang-inspired all-electric performance SUV will arrive in 2020, with Ford’s Mustang-inspired all-electric performance SUV will arrive in 2020, with a pure-electric driving range of 600 km (more than 370 miles) calculated using a pure-electric driving range of 600 km (more than 370 miles) calculated using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), and fast-charging the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), and fast-charging capability. capability.

A one-of-a-kind Ford Transit Smart Energy Concept 10-seater minibus is helping A one-of-a-kind Ford Transit Smart Energy Concept 10-seater minibus is helping the company explore solutions for further optimising the energy efficiency and the company explore solutions for further optimising the energy efficiency and driving range of electrified vehicles. driving range of electrified vehicles.

ELECTRIFYING THE FUTURE ELECTRIFYING THE FUTURE Ford is committed to be a leader in providing customers with a broad choice Ford is committed to be a leader in providing customers with a broad choice of electrified vehicles with easy access to charging, and supporting them with of electrified vehicles with easy access to charging, and supporting them with enhanced connectivity and related mobility services. enhanced connectivity and related mobility services.

Earlier this year, Ford announced that every one of the company’s nameplates Earlier this year, Ford announced that every one of the company’s nameplates launched from the all-new Focus onwards will include an electrified option. This launched from the all-new Focus onwards will include an electrified option. This includes new nameplates and new versions of existing vehicles. Either one of, or includes new nameplates and new versions of existing vehicles. Either one of, or a combination of, mild-hybrid, full-hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery electric a combination of, mild-hybrid, full-hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery electric 112

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And the self-charging full-hybrid technology employed by the Mondeo Hybrid is And the self-charging full-hybrid technology employed by the Mondeo Hybrid is capable of pure electric driving for refinement particularly in city and stop-start capable of pure electric driving for refinement particularly in city and stop-start driving scenarios. The powertrain eliminates both range anxiety and the need for driving scenarios. The powertrain eliminates both range anxiety and the need for customers to use an external power source to charge the battery. customers to use an external power source to charge the battery.

Ford’s future all-electric vehicles will deliver next-generation connectivity for overFord’s future all-electric vehicles will deliver next-generation connectivity for overthe-air updates, and will be supported by the IONITY network of fast-charging the-air updates, and will be supported by the IONITY network of fast-charging stations. Ford is a founder member of the IONITY consortium that aims to build stations. Ford is a founder member of the IONITY consortium that aims to build 400 stations in key European locations by 2020, with a charging capacity of 350 400 stations in key European locations by 2020, with a charging capacity of 350 kW. This enables a significant reduction to charging times compared to existing kW. This enables a significant reduction to charging times compared to existing systems. systems.

KUGA’S COMPREHENSIVE HYBRID LINE-UP KUGA’S COMPREHENSIVE HYBRID LINE-UP The all-new Ford Kuga is the first Ford passenger car to be offered with plug-in The all-new Ford Kuga is the first Ford passenger car to be offered with plug-in hybrid, mild-hybrid and full-hybrid powertrains. hybrid, mild-hybrid and full-hybrid powertrains.

PURE-ELECTRIC, PURE LUXURY, EXPLORER PLUG-IN HYBRID PURE-ELECTRIC, PURE LUXURY, EXPLORER PLUG-IN HYBRID The all-new Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid will be offered in two distinctive, highThe all-new Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid will be offered in two distinctive, highspecification variants – the sporty, Ford Performance-inspired Explorer ST-Line specification variants – the sporty, Ford Performance-inspired Explorer ST-Line and the luxurious Explorer Platinum. Powered by a combination of Ford’s 3.0-litre and the luxurious Explorer Platinum. Powered by a combination of Ford’s 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 petrol engine, electric motor and generator, the Explorer Plug-In EcoBoost V6 petrol engine, electric motor and generator, the Explorer Plug-In Hybrid delivers 450 PS and 840 Nm of torque. The SUV will also offer more than Hybrid delivers 450 PS and 840 Nm of torque. The SUV will also offer more than 40 km zero-emissions pure-electric city driving range, alongside anticipated X.X 40 km zero-emissions pure-electric city driving range, alongside anticipated X.X l/100 km fuel efficiency and XX g/km CO2 emissions. l/100 km fuel efficiency and XX g/km CO2 emissions.

TOURNEO PLUG-IN HYBRID CONTRIBUTES TO CLEANER CITIES TOURNEO PLUG-IN HYBRID CONTRIBUTES TO CLEANER CITIES The eight-seat Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid – designed to contribute to The eight-seat Tourneo Custom Plug-In Hybrid – designed to contribute to reduced local emissions and enable operation in growing number of ultra-lowreduced local emissions and enable operation in growing number of ultra-lowemission vehicle zones being introduced across Europe – will be available to emission vehicle zones being introduced across Europe – will be available to European customers from late 2019.

European customers from late 2019.

TRANSIT GOES ALL-ELECTRIC TRANSIT GOES ALL-ELECTRIC Anticipated for volume launch in 2021, the new all-electric Ford Transit van is Anticipated for volume launch in 2021, the new all-electric Ford Transit van is designed to address the needs of businesses for a capable and versatile zerodesigned to address the needs of businesses for a capable and versatile zeroemission load-carrier for urban applications. The all-electric Transit will be available emission load-carrier for urban applications. The all-electric Transit will be available in multiple body styles, delivering full Transit capability and durability. in multiple body styles, delivering full Transit capability and durability.

FIESTA AND FOCUS ECOBOOST HYBRID: LOWER EMISSIONS, FIESTA AND FOCUS ECOBOOST HYBRID: LOWER EMISSIONS, HIGHER POWER HIGHER POWER The Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid will feature a The Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid will feature a sophisticated mild-hybrid architecture tailored to enhance fuel-efficiency sophisticated mild-hybrid architecture tailored to enhance fuel-efficiency while complementing Ford’s fun to drive experience with more powerful and while complementing Ford’s fun to drive experience with more powerful and responsive performance. responsive performance.

SMART ENERGY CONCEPT LOOKS TO THE FUTURE SMART ENERGY CONCEPT LOOKS TO THE FUTURE Ford also today revealed the new Transit Smart Energy Concept – a one-ofFord also today revealed the new Transit Smart Energy Concept – a one-ofa-kind 10-seater minibus that is helping the company explore solutions for a-kind 10-seater minibus that is helping the company explore solutions for maximising the energy efficiency and driving range of future electrified vehicles maximising the energy efficiency and driving range of future electrified vehicles [V] [V]

YEARS

G N I T A R B E L CE K S I C F O S 90 YEAR

SINCE 1929