#53 The Spring Issue

WELCOME TO A JOURNEY OF SELF-REALIZATION…

A whole new dimension opens up when you discover the Indian wisdom of health - Ayurveda. This holistic system of health focuses on physical, mental and spiritual balance, using ancient healing techniques composed of herbs & medicinal oils. With therapists from Kerala, India, you can be sure to revive your energy at Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz.

AYURVEDA HEALING PACKAGE

Soothe your soul with our authentic Ayurveda experience - either as a single treatment or in one of our various packages.

For more information we invite you to visit our website or contact our dedicated team

+356 2211 5800 | spateam.sanlawrenz@kempinski.com

10 GREAT GIFT IDEAS THAT WILL MAK

#03

Accessorize

Embroidered Tassel

Mini Dress €69

#01

Copenhagen Sparkling Tea / Gift Bag - €23.10

Give mum some bubbles of joy with Copenhagen Sparkling Teas, a new innovative beverage category developed by the Danish award-winning sommelier Jacob Kocemba. Up to 13 different teas are thoughtfully selected and combined in one bottle. The teas are thereafter brewed under different temperatures and time intervals, to extract the perfect taste. Free Delivery with orders above 30€ or pick-up from our Shop at Grey & Adler in Naxxar. Available on WOLT. Flavours of confiture and biscuit tin may vary. www.tettiera.com

#02

Shoes €49.90, Clutch Bag €45

Bring a touch of glamour to her wardrobe with the latest collection of slingback pumps now available from Darmanin Footwear. These stunning shoes can elevate any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary, and are offered in four beautiful colours: silver, pink, green, and gold. Available at all Darmanin Footwear outlets – www.darmaningroup.com

For coastal walks and sunlit dinners, this dress is spun with light and airy cotton that’ll catch the warm breeze. It boasts a collared neckline, with tie tassels for a boho finish. The tiered hem to the skirt gives it movement, with all-over paisleystyle embroidery to complete the piece Available from all Accessorize outlets.

#04

Love Moschino Bag – €188

Surprise your mother this Mother’s Day with a beautiful bag from Love Moschino’s latest collection. The Turn Lock Handbag, boasts elegant metal detailing and the iconic LM logo. It also comes with a removable and adjustable strap, allowing for comfortable shoulder or crossbody use. View the full collection at Darmanin Footwear, Level -2, The Point. www. darmaningroup.com

E MUM FEEL SPECIAL THIS MOTHER’S DAY!

#07

Raffia Crochet Beach

Shopper Bag  €49

Expertly crafted in a gorgeous crochet finish, this bag features a zesty embroidered lemon design that’s sure to add some serious zest to your beach look. With its convenient tote-style profile, the Raffia crochet beach bag is a great option for a Mother’s Day gift! Available from all Accessorize outlets, www.monsoonaccessorize. com.mt

Exquisite Posh Dream Floral Bouquet

Treat your mum this Mother’s Day with the exquisite Posh Dream floral bouquet from Alistair Floral Design. This stunning arrangement features a variety of premium, fresh flowers including roses, orchids, spray roses, lisianthus, gerberas, and other beautiful filler flowers and foliage. Alistair Floral Design offers a wide range of fresh flowers and home décor, and you can also find Baobab’s exclusive collection of candles and diffusers online and in-store. Visit the new Alistair Store - 45, Mriehel Street, Birkirkara. www.alistairfloraldesign.com - Starting from €50

#06

Accessorize Raffia Macrame Mules €49

With their woven raffia straps and slightly cushioned footbed, they’re the perfect choice for any fashion-forward mum who values both form and function. And let’s not forget the double strap to the upper, which adds both security and comfort for those long strolls along the seafront. Available from all Accessorize outlets, www.monsoonaccessorize.com.mt

”SPREAD THE LOVE THIS MOTHER’S DAY WITH A SPECIAL GIFT FROM OUR TOP 10 PICKS.”

#08

Blue Elephant Voucher

Are you looking for the perfect way to treat your mom to a truly unforgettable dining experience? Look no further than Hilton Malta’s incredible restaurant gift vouchers! With a wide selection of delicious offerings available at their top-notch eateries, including Blue Elephant, Oceana Restaurant, and Vista Lobby Lounge, there’s something for every taste and preference. For more information or to purchase a voucher, send an email to info.malta@hilton.com

#10

XTI LACE-UP SNEAKERS – €59.90

Channel her sporty side with these Xti lace-up sneakers. Featuring clean and simple lines, they are made with a combination of materials including glitter and textile. The metallic logo on the side adds a sophisticated touch to your everyday look. Available at all Darmanin Footwear outlets. www.darmaningroup.com

#09

COBBLESTONE SILICONE TABLEWARE

4 PACK DINNER SET, €31.00

This lovely Tettiera® Gift Box is indeed an indulgence treasure box for Mum. She can create her tea time moments with our Wens Herbal Infusion mini tube 25g complimented with La Sablésienne Biscuit Round Tin box, a delicious Confiture Parisienne and a glass tube with red rose petals for her to enjoy in her mocktails. Free Delivery with orders above 30€ or pick-up from our Shop at Grey & Adler in Naxxar. Available on WOLT. Flavours of confiture and biscuit tin may vary. wwww.tettiera.com

”A TIME TO SHOW OUR GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN OUR LIVES.”

#53

024. MUSING>BLACKED OUT Multi award winning photgrapher Ron Kedmi shares some of his latest works.

THIS SEASON AT VAMP, WE CELEBRATE SPRING, RENEWAL AND ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TIMES OF THE YEAR. IN THIS MONTH’S PACKED ISSUE, YOU CAN EXPECT OUR REGULAR FEATURES, SUCH AS OUR BEAUTY SECTION WITH TOP PRODUCTS TO MAKE YOU FEEL FANTASTIC, A DREAM HOUSE FROM SLASH ARCHITECTS, AND ALL THE OTHER AWESOME INTERVIEWS AND ARTISANS THAT MAKE VAMP SO SPECIAL, SO IN DEMAND AND SO UNIQUE. SO WHATEVER YOU DO, MAKE SOME SPACE IN YOUR SCHEDULE FOR SOME GOLDEN “ME TIME”. HIT PAUSE. GO ON, YOU DESERVE IT. ENJOY AND TAKE SOME TIME OUT OF YOUR DAY TO RELAX WITH THIS MAG. YOU HAVE A LIFETIME TO BLOSSOM, BUT LET’S START NOW.

DAYNA - ED

08. 10 MOTHER’S DAY IDEAS

Our popular Gift Guide is back this year, featuring the most in-demand gifts for this mother’s day

015. #LETS TALK ART: RUSSELL TOVEY + ROBERT DIAMENT

Renowned actor Russell Tovey talks about the arts and his book “Talk Art” written together with his friend Robert Diament

018. BEGIN BOLD

Outgoing, bold and magnetically courageous, a brand which naturally shines in its own light. BULLDOG is the Gin for people who get it!

020. WHEN IN ROME – A RESTROSPECTIVE ON ROME FASHION WEEK ‘23

Here’s what when down when Vamp contibutor Lira Bekbolatova explored Rome Fashion Week earlier this year

026. MUSING>BLACKED OUT

Multi award winning photgrapher Ron Kedmi shares some of his latest works.

032. MEET LIRA BEKBOLATOVA

038. INTO THE WILD

Vamp Magazine brings you the intricate works of multi award winning wild life Photographer Johan Siggesson.

048. A DESIGNERS’ DREAM KITCHEN BY CESAR

Discover a wide range of modules, materials, and finishes creating a haven for bespoke solutions.

050. U-HOUSE

Step inside a contemporary high-end house in Bodrum, Turkey designed by Slash Architects.

060. BEHIND THE MENU

Dayna Camilleri Clarke meets Michelin recommended Medina Restaurant Head Chef, Jonathan Bonello.

064. EXTREME DACIA

Dacia has launched the new Extreme trim level for its range, offering an exclusive design and new features that are perfect for any adventure.

066. I HAD TO KILL YOU

Editor

Dayna Camilleri Clarke

Design / Art Direction

Chris Psaila

Photographer

Ron Kedmi

Stylist

Liora Taragan

Sales Director

Sam Psaila 7788 0300

Contributors

Jonathan Bonello

Zoobs Ansari

Johan Siggesson

Jenette Bajada

Lira Bekbolatova

Russell Tovey

Slash Architects

Giuseppe Ferrara

Karina Nurzhanova

Nirit Hirshman

Model: Romi

Vamp Magazine catches up with the incredibly multi talented and long-time Vamp contributor, Lira Bekbolatova.

034. LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL Land Rover has unveiled the latest third-generation version of its popular Range Rover Sport. Asixcylinder extended range Electric Hybrids, a potent new V8 and mild hybrid six-cylinder petrol and diesel Ingenium engines.

Reproduction

Meet ZOOBS, an L.A creative maverick like no other, and long term Vamp contributer.

073. TIME TO BLOSSOM

It’s time to shine and get that enviable everyday glow this spring with to hottest products everyone is talking about.

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 endeavor 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 2023

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

“THE PUNISHMENT OF DESIRE IS THE AGONY OF UNFULFILLMENT” – HERMES TRISMEGISTUS

#Let’s Talk Art!

Russell Tovey (left) is an actor best-known for appearing in The History Boys, Years and Years, Being Human, The Good Liar, HBO’s Looking, ITV’s The Sister and American Horror Story. He is also a passionate art collector, with more than 300 pieces, and a judge for the prestigious Turner Prize 2021. Russell Tovey talks about art and his book Talk Art written together with his friend Robert Diament. >>

The Talk Art has been a bit of a phenomenon. It’s one of my proudest achievements because it came from a place of enthusiasm and being a complete geek. Robert and I – we were introduced to each other through the artist Tracy Emin, who’s been a constant in both our lives and a real hero of ours. And we’ve developed a shorthand with each other about art. And that has been one of the most important friendships in my life. We created something that literally was just for us, and it’s become a real thing. We’ve just hit 5 million downloads and it is insane! And we did that from scratch. From love. So, you know, I feel incredibly proud of that.

The much-anticipated second book from Sunday Times best-selling authors Russell Tovey and Robert Diament, Talk Art: The Interviews offer a beautifully presented collection of interview highlights from the popular Talk Art podcast. Featuring exclusive interviews with leading artists, musicians, writers, actors and gallerists, Robert and Russell’s Talk Art has established itself as the must-listen cultural podcast and garnered more than 5 million downloads since its launch in 2018. Their first book, Talk Art: Everything you wanted to know about contemporary art but were afraid to ask (also published by Ilex), a visually stimulating and accessible guidebook to navigating and engaging with the art world, was a Sunday Times bestseller on its release in 2021.

When the first book “Talk Art”came out, it was lockdown. We didn’t have an opportunity to really promote it. We had live events lined up and they all got cancelled. And yet it became a Sunday Times bestseller because people have connected to the podcast so much, and they want art for themselves. Our whole mantra is art for everyone. We want to connect to as many people as possible. And the first book did that without really much promotion. The second book I’m hoping is going to connect on a deeper level. We’ve curated a lot of interviews from some of our favorite dynamic, fascinating guests, which is going to give a really balanced, nuanced, quite emotional at times, funnily enough opportunity to dive deeper into the psyche of why art matters to so many people. The more that the world is falling apart, the more art is being made because people have to communicate to each other. And art moves quicker than any political propaganda beyond and always has done.

Talk Art: The Interviews gathers 24 of the most profound, interesting, moving, funny

and informative moments from the popular Talk Art podcast. These curated excerpts explore the inspirations, art experiences and favourite artists of a fascinating range of creative people from Grayson Perry to Elton John, Tracey Emin to Paul Smith, and from Wolfgang Tillmans to Sonia Boyce, accompanied by images of the artworks that have influenced them.

Look at the cave paintings: they were telling stories to each other. They were teaching us about what animals were out

there, what weapons to use, how to connect with each other, what nature was. It helped us to understand the world through images. And that’s what art always is. Art is storytelling. It’s the way that people try to understand themselves and their place in the world. It shows us what the world is, represents who everybody is around us, what opportunities you have. How much more fascinating and inspiring the world is when you can see other faces apart from your own? [ V ]

...“These curated excerpts explore the inspirations, art experiences and favourite artists of a fascinating range of creative people from Grayson Perry to Elton John, Tracey Emin to Paul Smith, and from Wolfgang Tillmans to Sonia Boyce”...

Outgoing, bold and magnetically courageous, BULLDOG naturally shines in its own light. It doesn’t demand a stage or crave the limelight, and it doesn’t rely on convention to define itself. BULLDOG makes its own light by taking a stance versus the conventional and doing things its own way. BULLDOG trusted its daring attitude and took nonconformist choices to define itself as a modern, premium gin around the world.

It’s this compelling attitude that is magnetically attractive to others. It inspires them to be bold enough to trust their innate truths, to revel in the unfamiliar and forge their own path. >>

“It’s

BULLDOG G&T WITH BLACKBERRIES

– Fill a G&T balloon glass with ice, and then chill with a spoon

– Empty the glass, draining away any excess water, and re-fill it with fresh ice

– Pour 5cl of BULLDOG Gin into the glass using a jigger, then pour 15cl of premium tonic water, using a mixing spoon

– Select and cut three blackberries in half lengthwise and place them onto a metallic skewer. It’s important to ensure they are secure, and will remain in place on the stick

– Place the garnish inside the glass and make a 180-degree twist

– Serve, as the blackberry infuses with the liquid

A PREMIUM GIN WITH A DIFFERENCE

BULLDOG is the modern interpretation of a London Dry Gin. Unique in its flavour thanks to an exotic blend of twelve botanicals, BULLDOG is a smooth yet complex gin, with 40% ABV.

The twelve botanicals within BULLDOG are sourced from eight different countries worldwide, each used in their natural state and perfectly blended to create a complex and unexpectedly smooth flavour. The result is a distinctive taste with nutty and fruity notes, and an overriding freshness.

Bulldog in marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Co. ltd. Trade Enquiry 2381 4400

a different way of living – a reason to embrace choices and independence. In a world where countless possibilities and pre-determined routines are constantly present, BULLDOG is a source of inspiration to be curious about life’s possibilities and its unexpected pleasures. You create your own spotlight and decide how to use it. BULLDOG inspires you to follow your instinct and shine. “

WHEN IN ROME

Rome Fashion Week made its stylish return last season, featuring a hub of influencers, fashion bloggers and industry figures from across the globe who gathered to make it a fashion week like no other. Vamp Magazine is delighted to share our experience and acquaint you with three designers who rocked the floor this year.

Saman Loira

ALTAROMA

“Altaroma has consolidated its mission as a true start-up accelerator and has established the Rome Fashion Week as an event of international relevance”, stated Silvia Venturini Fendi, President of Altaroma, at the end of the event held from 31 January to 2 February in Rome. A one-of-a-kind event in Italy and Europe, Altaroma provides emerging brands with several dedicated platforms – which they would not be able to access without significant financial efforts. This allows them to gain visibility and exposure and establish contacts with industry professionals.

Purification and rebirth: these keywords define Saman Loira’s new collection, which, among embroideries, inlays, plissés and artisan-style manufactures, celebrates nature inspired by the pagan tradition. A manifesto collection that sees a passage from darkness to light, declining a colour palette that goes from black to the tones of an arid desert to brighter green shadows that recall the lush meadows of May. Dresses in tulle, knits and opaque wool blend with feathers and Chantilly lace inlays, while the colour reflects the skin’s and the earth’s nuances. It is a moment of suspension in a surreal limbo that takes us out of all earthly worries, where the woman, free from any social superstructure, expresses the magic in her. >>

[...“SAMAN LORIA FEATURED A MANIFESTO COLLECTION WHICH DIPICTED A PASSAGE FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT, DECLINING A COLOR PALETTE THAT GOES FROM BLACK TO THE TONES OF AN ARID DESERT, TO BRIGHTER GREEN SHADOWS THAT RECALLS THE LUSH MEADOWS OF MAY. ”... ]

SAMAN LOIRA

Saman Loira

Mokoo

Casa Preti

Casa Preti

Mokoo

Saman Loira

Saman Loira

Casa Preti

Casa Preti

PRETI

The Casa Preti 23/24 collection takes inspiration from its very essence. The designer Mattia Piazza has retraced the classic lines of the brand inspired by the women of his life. The clothes like this are not just places to live but have a specific name with a determined character: Paola, Filippo, Concetta, Fabrizio, Giovanna, Steve, and Rosabla are just some of the names that frame the collection.

Memories and projections of the absolute in the delineation of a better and ideal world. The figures become an image of the company’s values which for Piazza should be universal. The essential modelling lines, typical of the brand, interact with cotton velvets and silks that recall the flavours and sensations of the beginning of the century and are combined with plastic fabrics, such as neoprene, acquiring a sculptural hand that allows you to design moving statues. The colours run in a spiral of neutral colours with peaks of green and blue passing through greys and blacks. The Preti collection wants to clarify its value: visionary craftsmanship, beauty, love, union, passion and life.

MOKOO looks at the clothes from a future-oriented perspective, respects the function of the essence of the clothes, and presents the functionality and direction of the garments with experimental and new procedures. Thus, through reinterpreting and re-developing high-end fabrics by the brand, clothes using new materials are used. In addition, accessories used in clothes are designed by MOKOO designers who studied metal crafts and are made of pure silver and metal. The main focus is on quality and collectable value. MOKOO’s ultimate goal is to produce high-quality clothes that can be worn together for a long time.

Saman Loira

Casa Preti

CASA

MOKOO

[

...“The designer Mattia Piazza has retraced the classic lines of the brand inspired by the women of his life. ”... ]

BLACKED OUT.

Photography: Ron Kedmi

Clothes: Liora Taragan, Jewlery: Bazzandlutra

Styling: Liora Taragan, Hat: Yve Saint Laurent

Shoes: Ash, Makeup + Hair: Nirit Hirshman

Model: Romi for elinor shachar agencie , Location: Old Jaffa

IN TER VIE W

Photos: Karina Nurzhanova

With her articles being published worldwide: in the USA, Italy, Malta, Singapore, Russia, and Kazakhstan, Lira is the author of more than 20 cover stories for international editions. She won several International Music Journalism and Composers’ Competitions in New York City. Lira Bekbolatova is officially included in the list of “successful Kazakhs abroad “, according to the World Association of Kazakhs. Vamp Magazine sits down with Lira to discuss her creativity.

You are a journalist, composer, pianist, theatre critic, and educator. How do you manage to work in these different fields simultaneously?

If you are passionate about something, you can find time for it. I am lucky to have a very supportive partner which allows me to apply time management strategies to complete all tasks on time. In my case we are talking about creative arts which means you can’t get far without inspiration, which quite frankly, doesn’t come on demand. So you have to catch it.

And how can you do that?

You have to work, even when you feel like you don’t want to. You write, you play, and you create as if it were your religion. Inspiration can come at the wrong time and wrong place. You just have to be prepared for when it hits you and be ready to catch it.

Did you always know you wanted to be in the creative field?

I was always drawn to the performing arts from a very young age. My mother noticed this and sent me to a dance academy follwed by music school a year later. I grew up seeing my father acting, playing music, and writing short stories. He was my biggest inspiration and the ideal role model for me.

Eventually, the educational system asks you to choose one direction for your future, so I chose music. I can’t say this decision was limiting, but it gave me a solid aesthetic foundation in the arts.

As people say: what is yours will always find you. And vice versa. After my graduation, I moved to Rome to study fashion and the arts. I initiated meeting with artists I admire; I used to listen to their stories and would write about their experiences. It was so inspiring that I finally surrendered to my

strong desire to create for myself. And so, I became a composer.

Do all roads lead to Rome?

I’d say all roads lead to your most authentic self. My true self happened to be in Rome.

And what is your true self?

I am an artist. It took me a while to accept it. At first, I thought I was not good enough to be called an artist, but then I realized that every artist has a purpose. The first kind of artist is destined to change the world. Others capture the moment and turn it into history. The third kind is intended to entertain people. While I am a messenger, I want to bring joy and remind people how beautiful they are. How beautiful life is. I might not have this giant ego and a strong desire to be famous, but I am happy to express myself and allow people to discover their inner beauty through my creativity.

Are we talking about your music?

Not only. When it comes to an interview, I always try to find an angle that would allow me to shed light on each person’s uniqueness. The same applies while teaching performing arts. I try to lead my students to find their inner light, which would help them to bloom: creatively, academically, and personally.

You’ve met and interacted with many great artists: best-selling writers, Oscar and Grammy winners, famous designers, and Hollywood stars. What was the most memorable part of talking to these people?

To receive their blessings. Maestro Ennio Morricone blessed me with writing music. Internationally recognized pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy reassured me I would become a great pianist. Sanjiv Bhattacharya, nominated three times for the “Writer of The Year” Award in the US, predicted a big future for me as a writer. And these artists don’t bless everyone they meet, you know?

Many artists and musicians are investing in creating NFT, the so-called non-fungible token. Do you think it’s a future or an actual threat to creativity?

In my opinion, NFT allows everybody to become an artist. It’s a new path which I find very helpful for emerging artists. Using blockchain will make it easier to be exposed to different audiences and have recent sales

channels. Most importantly, it gives the artist security and protection regarding the law. I think, sooner or later, artists will have to try and adapt to this new path because that is our future. Although I am very traditional, I prefer to work old-school with pen and paper.

You said you want to bring joy to people, but what brings joy to you?

I love discovering things: places, people, cultures, and languages. I love challenges and getting out of my comfort zone. Everything that makes me feel alive always brings me joy.

...“I try to lead my students to find their inner light, which would help them to bloom: creatively, academically, and personally.”...

LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL. >

Land Rover has unveiled the latest version of its popular Range Rover Sport. The third-generation vehicle, available in S, SE, HSE and Autobiography specifications, is set to offer a suite of powerful and efficient powertrains, including six-cylinder extended range Electric Hybrids, a potent new V8 and mild hybrid six-cylinder petrol and diesel Ingenium engines. >>

This will include the introduction of pure-electric propulsion in 2024 as the company continues its electrification journey. Land Rover promises that the new model will combine “assertive and instinctive on-road performance with trademark Range Rover refinement, progressive design sophistication and connected convenience.”

Land Rover has used its mixed-metal MLAFlex architecture to create a more technologically advanced vehicle, providing a dynamic toolkit for a more engaging driving

experience. The new Dynamic Response Pro works alongside the latest generation Dynamic Air Suspension, which incorporates switchable-volume air springs for the first time. Meanwhile, the vehicle’s Adaptive Dynamics 2 technology continuously monitors external factors, controlling the Active Twin Valve Dampers to reduce unwanted body movements.

The latest Range Rover Sport also includes All-Wheel Steering, Torque Vectoring by Braking and the Electronic Active Differential, which provide rear-wheel steering of up to 7.3 degrees out of phase with the front

wheels, giving the car a turning circle of a hatchback and the on-road agility of a much smaller car.

New Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control is a feature that will make its debut on the latest Range Rover Sport, offering drivers the ability to navigate tricky terrain by maintaining steady progress according to the ground conditions. There are four comfort settings, with the system adjusting the speed accordingly, enabling the driver to focus on steering.

The exterior design incorporates distinctive signature elements, including the sculpted tailgate with a full-width feature bearing the Range Rover script, providing a contemporary look at night. Flush glazing and door handles, a hidden waist rail finisher and laser-welded roof, contribute to the car’s excellent aerodynamic performance, with a drag coefficient of just 0.29.

Commenting on the latest offering, Thierry Bolloré, Chief Executive Officer of Jaguar Land Rover, said: “The exceptional New Range Rover Sport sets new standards as the ultimate sporting luxury SUV, building on seventeen years of unique customer

appeal. It is the latest embodiment of our vision to create the world’s most desirable modern luxury vehicles, effortlessly blending new levels of sustainability with the signature qualities that have made Range Rover Sport so popular.”

The latest Range Rover Sport provides drivers with enhanced levels of refinement and comfort, combined with the ability to be honed for a more engaging driving experience. It also promises to introduce new levels of sustainability, with the inclusion of a range of powertrains that are set to include electric propulsion in the coming years. [ V ]

“THE EXCEPTIONAL NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT SETS NEW STANDARDS AS THE ULTIMATE SPORTING LUXURY SUV, BUILDING ON SEVENTEEN YEARS OF UNIQUE CUSTOMER APPEAL.”

INTO WILD

VAMP meets world renowned wildlife photographer Johan Siggesson.

THE–

For those not in the know, tell us a bit about yourself!

I was born in a small town called Älvängen, Sweden in 1977. Spending much of my childhood fishing, observing the animals and playing in the forest, I formed a natural connection with the wild. I was passionate about animals and the natural world from an early age. I vividly remember how I, as a young boy, was flipping through the natural history books on my grandmother’s bookshelf. I also recall being glued in front of the screen during the weekly nature program on Swedish state television. >>

As a young adult, life choices led me away from the forests of Sweden and into an office in Malta. In Malta, I pursued a career in graphic design with my own design studio. Much later in life, I went on my first safari with a rented lens and a beginners camera. From there on, my life changed direction. I decided to give up my career as a graphic designer to take up wildlife photography as a full-time profession.

Since then, I have received a number of international photography awards. I was titled Scottish Nature Photographer of the Year 2014 and was a category winner in European Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2018, Travel Photographer of the Year 2017 and Malta International Photo Awards 19/20, to name a

few. Now, I regularly work as a photographic guide on wildlife photography tours for various companies in different locations around the world. I am fortunate to have my work decorating offices, homes and institutions worldwide.

When did your artistic journey begin?

I am entirely self-taught and looking back; there are many factors and events that probably has led me to where I am today. I would say my career has had many different starting points but the most important one, was probably a safari back in 2012 when I went to Kenya in Africa with a consumer-level camera and a rented lens. I spent a week in the Maasai Mara National Park where one of the

most famous wildlife spectacles of the world is taking place every year - the great migration of wildebeest and zebra.

Returning to Malta, which was already my home at the time, I submitted some of my images to the most important wildlife photography competition in the world, and one of the images went all the way to the final. As mentioned above, it was then I decided that maybe this is what I should be doing with my life.

What inspires you?

Wildlife photography, in general, is very often a waiting game, and patience is key. When something great happens, it often happens

very fast and is over in bare minutes or even seconds. In that short period there are a lot of things that have to come together simultaneously to create a great image. The thrill when, suddenly, everything falls in place is indescribable. That never-ending search for the “cigar-shot” is what triggers and inspires me to do more and better every time.

How would you describe your style?

It is hard to describe and judge your own style and I would prefer to leave that to others, but my keen interest in wildlife in conjunction with a background in graphic design, I think defines my imagery.

I strive for simple and clear yet powerful im-

ages and often create images in black and white. Although nature is full colour, I feel the monochrome presentation strip the image of distractions and what is left is more raw and gives a more timeless feel. I try to evoke emotion and connection between animal and viewer. All the above is especially true for the images that are meant to hang in a gallery or on someone’s wall. I have always preferred simplicity in all kinds of art.

To achieve this I prefer spending more time on location to capture the true essence of my intended subject, preferably with the same species or individual. In that way I get to know the animals’ behaviour, and also, the animal learns that I am not dangerous and that they can relax around me. >>

If the image is not intended as wall art, the style might change somewhat. A great example is predation. A lion killing a zebra on the African savannah is an exciting sighting and can produce fantastic images for an article, but it would most probably not look that great on a collector’s wall.

What does your creative process look like?

Unlike a studio photographer, who controls both surroundings, light and the subject, a wildlife photographer has very little control of the shoot. We are at the mercy of the natural elements and work with subjects that have no interest in having their photograph taken. Due to this, it is next to impossible to plan a shoot beforehand. >>

[...MY FAVOURITE SUBJECTS ARE THOSE ICONIC ANIMALS AROUND THE WORLD AND ESPECIALLY IN AFRICA. I SOMETIMES REFER TO THEM AS THE “ANIMALS OF CHILDREN’S BOOKS”...]

That said, it is not entirely random. When I am going to a new location I research the area and the work that has been done in this area before. Like that I get an idea of what I can do, new ideas and sometimes, more importantly, what shots to avoid. These ideas I keep in mind whilst shooting and if possible work towards that specific image. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. Often the animals that you intended to shoot don’t even show up, but that’s part of the game.

What keeps driving you forward in your artistic journey?

As a wildlife photographer there are a number of factors of which you mostly have no control over that has to weave together to make a great image. The angle has to be right, as the light, the behaviour and the movement of the animal etc. I am always very critical of my own work and always

manage to find something that could have been done better or differently. I think the main driving force is exactly that. Things can always be better or different. I’m not happy with 10 great images of an elephant. Imagine if the 11th is even better.

Do you have a favourite subject to snap?

My favourite subjects are those iconic animals around the world and especially in Africa. I sometimes refer to them as the “animals of children’s books”. Although it is fantastic to photograph chameleons in Madagascar or freshwater crabs in Malta, iconic animals such as lions, giraffes, bears, wolves and elephants has a bigger impact on both me and my potential clients.

As photography is my job, I must balance what a great experience and fun to photograph and what actually sells is. As limited edition fine art prints are my main area, I

have to think of which species and which types of images look the best on someone’s wall. Although this varies from client to client, a pattern transpires after some time. >>

What has been your proudest career highlight to date?

The obvious answer would be to point to one of the international awards that I have won over the years, but I would say that every time I sell a print, large or small, to a private collector, it beats any award every single time. The fact that someone wants to hang my work on their wall is the ultimate reward for me.

What do you love most about your profession?

Simple! The fact that my passion is my job is what I love most about my job. I dreamed of visiting Africa and other exotic places when

I was young. Now, I get to do that frequently, and every single time I remind myself how lucky I am to be able to do what I love.

What’s the biggest challenge for a wildlife photographer?

You can do wildlife photography in many different ways. The way I have chosen to do it is with lots of travelling with extensive and expensive gear, the biggest hurdle, especially in the beginning, is the financial burden.

For obvious reasons this type of photography carries a larger financial investment than going out to the local nature patch on a Sunday morning. But wildlife photography can definitely be done with much less

investment in both time and money. I have seen incredible wildlife images created with only a mobile phone. Hence, it is not a necessity to buy expensive gear and travel far and wide for great wildlife photography. A garden and a mobile phone is sometimes all you need.

What advice would you give anyone interested in pursuing this route?

If you consider wildlife photography a profession, think long and hard about your choices. It is not a guaranteed success. Simply speaking, pursuing a more mainstream career is more likely to pay the bills.

With that said, if you think you have it in you, go for it and be persistent! Rome wasn’t built in a day.

What does 2023 have in store?

2023 is my most exciting year so far in this industry. Early January, I had an exhibition at one of the largest art fairs in Taipei, Taiwan. More is coming in Taipei, so I am incredibly excited to see where that is going in terms and sales, new contacts and opportunities. I also have more weeks in the field than any previous year, which is excellent. [ V ]

A DESIGNERS’ DREAM KITCHEN.

Cesar Unit Rosso Jaipur Fenix - Photo: Andrea Ferrari – Styling: Studiopepe

>CESAR has established itself as one of the leading Italian companies in the field of kitchen design and production. CESAR has its roots in the furniture manufacturing hub which is Veneto; precisely, in the town of Pramaggiore, in the workshop of Sante Cester. It came of age in 1968 and now boasts three flagship stores – in Milan, New York, and Paris - on top of 200 Italian sales outlets and 180 international dealers. After an extensive review of the Maltese furniture industry, CESAR chose to appoint Joinwell as its sole dealership for the islands of Malta &Gozo.

CESAR’s wide range of modules, materials, and finishes creates a haven for bespoke solutions. High performance technical finishes, as well as natural materials, are available to both contemporary and traditional collections, eliminating the need for designers to have to make compromises as they seek to blend their quest for artistic beauty with their customers’ similar requirements as well as the need for day to day functionality and comfort.

At the Joinwell showroom in Qormi, after months of studying and discussing the local furniture sector, it was decided to display CESAR’s UNIT, MAXIMA 2.2, TANGRAM, and THE 50’S kitchens. Innovation, clean lines, versatility, and functionality within contemporary and elegant styles are but just a few of the features one can see and touch before proceeding to customise them to one’s own space and functional requirements.

Cesar Tangram – Quarzo structured lacquer

Carnico marble

Photo credits: Andrea Ferrari

HO U SE. BODRUM

Bodrum U-House was designed by Slash Architects with architectural interventions at six different points within the boundaries of an existing house.

U-House is a residential unit of the prestigious Seba Küçükbük Houses of Bodrum. This is a summer-house-type project that consists of independent villas within a private residence. The architectural intervention performed in this project is various and targeted six different zones of the House. The topography of the plot being extremely diverse, the design had to find meaningful ways to connect these and make U-House whole. The different zones of the design were as such: The main entrance, a staircase connection with the upper level, the

pool area, an outdoor bar, a cocoon outdoor unit and finally a service area.

Since the plot is irregular, a number of reflections had to be made in order for the architectural language to be unified and coherent. Slash Architects defined that first requirement was to create a phenomenal entrance that would link the street level to the villa’s level. In a subtle way, a staircase had to be camouflaged with a set of landscaping techniques to create a pleasing passage at the entrance giving the best first impression of the villa as possible. The gate is designed by Architect Şule Ertürk to walk hand in hand with the other upcoming zones by including the owners’ personality in the design. The selected materials for the intervention as a whole are a combination of

Corten Copper and concrete. This decision is based in addition to taste on the imposing stone work done over the outer fencing facades of the unit. The balance created by the warm-looking metal and the quite neutral concrete did accompany the stone work delicately without stealing its spotlight being a costly material.

Combining landscape and architecture, the entrance is enhanced by copper planting pots, on-steps light boxes, sculptures, a resting bench mid-way and a varied selection of plants. All these elements harmoniously created an experimental walk through the entrance of U-House. >>

The pool area being originally placed in an awkwardly isolated area excluding any sun

[...“SLASH ARCHITECTS DEFINED THAT FIRST REQUIREMENT WAS TO CREATE A PHENOMENAL ENTRANCE THAT WOULD LINK THE STREET LEVEL TO THE VILLA’S LEVEL.”...]

The pool area being originally placed in an awkwardly isolated area excluding any sun bathing or seating elements around it, Slash Architects convened to create an appropriate environment around it. This design decision included the surrounding wall, the in-pool leveling and two different sunbathing areas. In fact, right by the pool, a built-in day-bed-like bench is installed as an annex to the distant official sunbathing zone. Additionally, the flooring is entirely replaced by wooden decks to bring out the family house warmth to the outdoor. In a constant quest to exhibit the owners’ identity in the design, graphic and lighting elements come to complete the architectural work. The outdoor-bar area being connected to the pool area, a continuous flow and rhythmic design is portrayed through a precise material selection that is durable for the outdoor environment and in accordance with the rest of the materials used. >>

Ultimately, the star element of the architectural intervention is the annex home unit, or cocoon outdoor unit that we like to call U-Nest. It is located on an independent level and is accessed by a staircase from the pool level and from above where the initial main entrance has been located originally.

Slash Architects describe the design language of the U-Nest is a mixture of sobriety and sophistication with a minimalist approach.Destined to perform essential tasks, it stands vigorously on a hill-like platform, facing a splendid view of the sea. This same

view led to opting for a completely transparent façade that represents a thin border between the indoor and outdoor environments. Speaking of borders, the idea was to create an infinite joint between the two sliding walls of the unit. Therefore, extremely thin profiles were cautiously selected to sustain the infinity effect. The interior of the nest is a cozy space with an iconic concrete table and a sustained fireplace chimney. Again, the warmth of a family house was transported in the U-Nest to give U-House a singular design language, appearance and ambiance. [ V ]

Project Name: Bodrum U House

Project Location: Bodrum, Muğla, Türkiye

Office: Slash Architects

Design Team: Şule Ertürk, Nergis Kahraman, Fatima Zahra Ghazli

Architectural Team: Şule Ertürk, Nergis Kahraman, Fatima Zahra Ghazli

Contractor: O Studio Architecture

Photography: Alt Kat Architectural

Project Year: 2021

Total Construction Area: 500 sqm

BEHIND THE MENU

Head Chef Jonathan Bonello knows a thing or two about cooking; after all, he was born into a family-run restaurant and grew up surrounded by top culinary expertise. After decades in the industry at the helm of top restaurants both locally and overseas, Chef Jonathan has turned his attention to transforming the Michelin recommended Medina Restaurant, into the place to be and the place to be seen.

Dayna Camilleri Clarke meets leading Head Chef, Jonathan Bonello.

Having just opened last month after a colossal refurbishment, Medina Restaurant, forming part of the Xara Collection, is situated in a 400-year-old building in the medieval fortified city of Mdina, Malta, presents a unique but homely offering rooted deeply in the origins of traditional Maltese cuisine, with influences from across the eastern Mediterranean region. The setting itself is an original 11th-century Norman residence brimming with Romanesque features. The honey-coloured stone walls with a picture-perfect internal courtyard and classic garden attributes will instantly transport you to a time gone by.

As for the menu, Chef Jonathan Bonello states there’s nothing progressive about this concept. “We are not trying to break the mould. We have taken Maltese cooking back to its roots and allowed the ingredients to speak for themselves. Having studied local gastronomic history, Chef Bonello can add his knowledge and flair to every

meal. For example, did you know ‘Kemmuna’, the island of Comino, is named so after the Cumin seed? These snippets of Malta enable the Chef to whip up his magic with gusto and deeply embed the essence of the islands into his dishes.

Distinctly humble, Chef Jonathan prefers to take a backseat to his masterpieces and let the food do the talking. You won’t find him with a perfectly polished Instagram or building up his online persona to the masses. It’s no secret chef life, is notoriously challenging, let alone at one of the island’s most sought-after dinner reservations. So how does the master balance his culinary prowess with, if any- “me time”?

“After work, I do my best to focus on being present with those around me, particularly my family are my number one. I try to take a mental break from the kitchen, so I can recharge and head back into the kitchen. Of course, chef life isn’t without its challenges and a hectic schedule. However, there’s

truly nothing else in this life I could see myself doing,” adds Chef Jonathan.

With a dedicated herb garden on the horizon at the restaurant, and the busy summer season starting to edge nearer, Jonathan remains distinctly calm, most likely to his 360 experience of having worked in all sections of catering over the decades, from waiting on tables to garnishing plates, he’s been there and done it.

His biggest culinary influences? “Hands down, a close friend Chef Joseph Zammit. A true mentor I owe my career to, he’s taught me some of my biggest lessons, ultimately that communication and teamwork make the chef and the kitchen.”

For more information about Medina Restaurant, visit: medinarestaurant. xaracollection.com

Hark back to another era as you dine within honey coloured stone walls and the prettiest internal courtyard with classic garden attributes.

MEDINA RESTAURANT HEAD CHEF JONATHAN BONELLO, GRACES US WITH

HIS

SIGNATURE DISH; A STUNNING TRADITIONAL OCTOPUS STEW.

The indigenous grape variety of Sumoll, from very old vines is aged in large French oak barrels of 300 and 400 litres, resulting a uniquely spiced, earthy and red fruit forward, medium bodied wine with medium tannins and bright acidity.

A perfect pairing for Mediterranean food and seafood stews. farsonsdirect.com

Ingredients: Serves 2

1 500-800g Octopus, preferably local, or from the Mediterranean, defrosted and the water kept for later

200g onion 2.5cm cut

100g carrot 2.5cm cut

1 celery stick left whole

2 sprigs of thyme

2 whole black pepper corns

200ml red wine

15ml sherry vinegar or good red wine vinegar

1 star Anise + Peel of 1 orange

Method:

Bring 2 litres of water, the red wine and the sherry vinegar to a Boil and being very careful not to burn your fingers, blanch the octopus 3 times, this is a very important step to keep the skin of the octopus intact, which in turn helps presentation.

After blanching 3 times, plunge the octopus in the water and bring to a boil, after which add all the other ingredients, including the water from the defrosted octopus.

Bring back to the boil then simmer at around 80 degrees for around 30 to 35 minutes.

The octopus should be tender at this point, but still holding its shape, it is very important now to allow the octopus

to cool in its cooking liquid for at least 1-2 hours, at the restaurant we leave it overnight.

Strain the Liquid, discard the vegetables. Reduce the stock until desired flavour, at the restaurant usually it is around half, this will result in a very flavourful liquid, a little bit salty, which we balance out with sugar and vinegar, and thicken with cornflour, as it leaves a great shine and is gluten free as well.

To Garnish:

Gremolata

2 garlic cloves minced

100g parsley chopped

Autòcton Negre 2016 –Catalunya, Spain

Extreme: The Trim Level that caters for AdventureSeeking Dacia Customers

Dacia has launched the new Extreme trim level for its range, offering an exclusive design and new features that are perfect for any adventure. With a new color option and added details, the Extreme trim level is even more reliable and provides better value for money. Dacia has always had a strong connection to the outdoors, and with the Extreme trim level, the brand is catering even more to its adventure-seeking customers.

The Extreme trim level has a distinctive look that subtly embodies the outdoors, with features such as a new Cedar Green body color, Copper Brown accents on the wing mirror caps and hubcaps, topographical designs on the front doors and sills, and glossy black shark fin antennas. The interior also reflects this ruggedness, with MicroCloud grey upholstery covering the

seats, door panels, and dashboard, rubber floor mats with topographical designs, and Copper Brown trim and topstitching.

But the Extreme trim level isn’t just about looks. Dacia has also included features to help drivers tackle off-road conditions. The Extended Grip solution, standard on the Extreme trim level of the Stepway and Jogger, allows the wheels to turn more freely and better grip loose surfaces by adjusting the electronic stability control settings. And for those who want to take their adventures to the next level, the Duster is available as a four-wheel drive, making it one of the most dependable SUVs on the market.

But what about when it’s time to rest after a long day of outdoor activities? Dacia has thought of that too. The Sleep Pack, the first accessory to be launched as part of the InNature accessory range, is available with all

Jogger trim levels. This removable accessory can turn the passenger compartment into a bedroom in just a few minutes, with a double bed that can be set up unassisted in less than two minutes, a shelf, and storage space. And weighing in at less than 50kg, it’s easy to remove when it’s time to hit the road again.

Dacia’s Extreme trim level is perfect for adventure-seeking customers who want a rugged and reliable vehicle that can handle off-road conditions while still being stylish and affordable. With features like the Extended Grip solution and the Sleep Pack accessory, Dacia has shown that it understands the needs of its customers and is committed to providing them with the best possible driving experience. www.autosales.com.mt,

I had to kill you

“The C#*!D Word”

A story about regrets, recovery and rebirth.

Renonwed LA based artist and long-time Vamp Magazine contributor reflects on his post pandemic transition from darkness to light.

It changed everything. I hate to even use the word. I call it ‘The C word’! Apart from all the lives that were lost, so many people started falling inexplicably ill, romances and marriages broke down, small businesses fell apart, dreams were shattered, homes were broken, lives were ruined. I only have one regret in life, taking the shot. My immunity was not the same after taking it.

Backtrack to 2019. After creating art works over a seven year period in the United States between 2013 and 2019, and working solidly for six months in London on my multimedia art show ‘Insanity Fair’ which was to showcase these works created in America, we finally opened the show in London in late March at Elephant West Gallery, White City. The show was curated by Jenny Christensson and extensively covered by brilliant and legendary art historians Jean Wainwright and Edward Lucie-Smith, but at the same time, news started being reported that the ‘C Word’ had become a pandemic, and that it was going global. Three days later, London and the entire world went into lockdown, another word I despise, I call it the ‘L word’. Welcome to Dystopia.

I moved into an apartment in Notting Hill where I stayed for fourteen months. The brilliant white, heavenly basement dwelling seemed perfect, but was unbeknownst to me, mould~infested. I was living in rotting hell, without even knowing it. In ‘Hell’, I would often fall ill, and reminisce about golden days in California, but the reality was that I had taken the vaccine three times, and was breathing mould for over a year in grey dystopian London, where the sun would set at early as 3.30pm during winter. By the end of 2021, I was out of ‘Notting Hell’, and had moved to a safer haven where I was bed ridden for 4 months.

These four months were profound. I had succumbed to weakness, I knew the road to recovery could be long, since taking the dreaded vaccine, I knew my body was not fixing itself how it used to. The workaholic within me fought with the wiser self, and after weeks of battle, my former self was defeated and removed from the field, and I, the new ‘I’, dedicated time on healing through nutrition, rest, and painting. Painting is patience, and patience is absolutely necessary for survival.

Painting changed everything. It got me out of bed. It took me back to the nineties, a time I still cherish, a time before the internet, when people took there time to live their lives. A time before Dystopia, the current status quo. Painting took me back to Utopia. 1992.

It allowed me to slow down, regroup and readdress life. It took me back to The Slade School of Art, drawing, painting, simpler forms of artistic expression. More primitive with no need for technology. I could be liquid, expressive with hardly any pre planning, I could be free, I was free. In hindsight, it was my subconscious which made me paint.

I started with one, and then another, and another. I found that the process of painting somehow allowed my mind to work things out on a subconscious level, and that every time I stopped painting, this subconscious processing would stop. So every time I finished a painting, I started another one. >>

Photo: Nino Samurai

[...”My personal painter’s paradise has served as my mental and physical health retreat, as well as a springboard for reaching other undiscovered artistic goals”...] >>

Jean Michel Basquiat

Ramona and Rebel

The Joker, self portrait

Lost World Michele Lamy

I also started drawing. This whole process became like a workshop which, over a period of a year, healed me, and helped me free myself of my own inhibitions, doubts and fears, and limitations in life, despite the innate knowledge that our time in this physical world is limited. Cliches like ‘Live each day like it’s your last’ suddenly seemed so poignant.

My personal painter’s paradise has served as my mental and physical health retreat, as well as a springboard for reaching other undiscovered artistic goals. To stop learning is to stop living. ‘The C Word’ may have destroyed so much, but it shook me up, and made me fully realize the fragility of life, the importance of embracing vulnerability, the preciousness of time, and the absolute necessity of the broadening of one’s horizons, and facing challenges fearlessly, to arrive at destinations that were previously unimagined, but play a pivotal role in order to complete one’s own life story in the best possible capacity, and to leave a legacy, which might have been out of sight and mind when life began. [ V ]

...“THE C WORD’ MAY HAVE DESTROYED SO MUCH, BUT IT SHOOK ME UP, AND MADE ME FULLY REALIZE THE FRAGILITY OF LIFE, THE IMPORTANCE OF EMBRACING VULNERABILITY”...

Dystopia One

The Kiss

Light up the night

The Oslo light up Bubble Spa features LED light strips at the bottom to make your spa GLOW. Creating a truly calming and romantic environment for your evening soaks. Switch colours based on your mood creating unparalleled ambiance.

Oslo Spa Timeless style, Signature portability.

The new OSLO Bubble Spa is sturdy and easy to install. One can enjoy multiple hydromassage jets in addition to the variable air bubbling technology.

Oslo Spa with led lights and jets for 4 to 6 persons at €2,599 Tribeca Bubble Spa (without lighting) also available for 4 to 6 persons at €1,999

TIME TO BLOSSOM

Masvelt Advanced Body Shaping Cream

This iconic, highly effective body cream provides smoothing, firming and sculpting action. A blend of coconut oil, aloe vera, and field scabious soothes and protects skin whilst celosia extract and organic mitracarpus firms and strengthens the skin. The Arctic ferment extract used in the formula possesses targeted anti-storage properties that take action with several complementary mechanisms. A plant-powered formula containing 96% natural ingredients.

Double Serum Light Texture

The iconic Double Serum is now also available in a new lighter, easily absorbed formula, with the same proven results on fine lines and wrinkles. Its unique dual formula combines the identical 21 powerful plant extracts as the original Double Serum that help boost the 5 vital functions of the skin and act on signs of agein and protects against external stressors. Double Serum

Light Texture is perfect for combination to oily skin-types, or for those who prefer a lighter weight texture.

Contour Treatment Oil - Contouring/Strengthening

Effective body-contouring, moisturizing and detoxifying with a body care product full of essential oils. Full of natural goodness that cares for skin. Energising body oil — with 100% pure plant extracts including Broom, Geranium and Marjoram — helps eliminate toxins to streamline skin and prevent sponginess.

Hydra-Essentiel [HA²] Night Cream

This cream, enriched with hyaluronic acid and organic leaf of life extract intensely hydrates and plumps the skin. At the heart of its formula, the Hyaluronic Power Complex developed by Clarins Laboratories helps boost the skin’s natural self-hydration mechanisms and preserve its moisture reserves. SIts airy, creamy texture melts instantly into the skin, leaving it radiant when you wake up.

Hydra-Essentiel [HA²] Silky Cream

This cream, enriched with hyaluronic acid, organic leaf of life extract and organic alpine willow herb, intensely hydrates and plumps the skin, while also mattifying it. At the heart of its formula, the Hyaluronic Power Complex developed by Clarins Laboratories helps boost the skin’s natural self-hydration mechanisms and preserve its moisture reserves. Its fresh, mattifying texture melts instantly into the skin, leaving it plump, luminous and comfortable.

THESE CLARINS BEAUTY MUST HAVES ARE STEALING THE LIMELIGHT IN OUR CABINET THIS MONTH, FROM CONTOURING OILS TO SUMPTUOUS NIGHT CREAMS, YOU’LL FIND IT ALL HERE AND MORE.

5 Benefits of Positive Thinking for a Happier Life

Positive thinking is a mental attitude that can have a significant impact on our overall well-being. It involves focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, rather than dwelling on the negative. While it may seem like a simple concept, the benefits of positive thinking are far-reaching and can help us lead happier, healthier lives.

Improved Mental Health

One of the most significant benefits of positive thinking is improved mental health. Positive thinking can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, increase resilience to stress, and improve overall mood. When we focus on positive thoughts, we are less likely to get caught up in negative self-talk, rumination, and catastrophic thinking.

Better Physical Health

Positive thinking can also have a positive impact on our physical health. Research has shown that positive thinking can boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, people who practice positive thinking tend to have healthier habits, such as exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet.

Increased Resilience

When we practice positive thinking, we are better equipped to handle the challenges that life throws our way. Positive thinking helps us develop resilience and bounce back from setbacks more quickly. We are more likely to see obstacles as opportuni ties for growth, rather than insurmountable barriers.

Improved Relationships

Positive thinking can also have a positive impact on our relationships. When we fo cus on the positive aspects of the people in our lives, we are more likely to have fulfill ing relationships. Positive thinking can help us communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts more easily, and build stronger connections with others.

How to Practice Positive Thinking

Practicing positive thinking is not always easy, but it is a skill that can be developed with time and practice. Here are some tips for cultivating a more positive mindset:

Practice gratitude. Take time each day to focus on the things you are grateful for. This can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have.