The Fashion Issue (Spring 2011)

SANDBOX THE NEw CUlTURE

CElEb junkIEs INSPIRATION FROM THE STARS

DÉCOR DIVa

FIONA SANIPEllI IS lIvING IN HER UPTOwN wORlD

In A FOG

A YOUNG MOTHER’S lIFE AFTER THE DEATH OF HER SON SPR 11 sPRInG 2011 $4.95

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fresh SPRING

FASHION IDEAS GO WITH THE

On January 8, 2011, Jonathan Williams and his 10 children were left homeless after a fire destroyed their house and nearly all of their belongings. Luckily, everyone got out safely. The immediate outpouring of support and aid from Winnipeg residents was inspiring and HOT 103 wasted no time calling in “the troops” for assistance.

SANDBOX was honoured to sponsor one of the 10 children, 15-year-old Shaina Williams, and with the help of some of our favourite SANDBOX babes, we gave Shaina something to call her own — a big (heavy) blue bin filled with clothes, shoes, purses, hair products and more.

Thank you to all those who donated to Shaina:

Berns & Black salOn Brittany kunderman HusH & sHOut kiera lOeWen lOrraine sHapera madisOn rOsas pOrtage place sHOpping centre

SANDBOX tHE NEW CUltURE

COMING IN THE AIR TONIGHT

KRYStAl’S SHOES,tOWN SHOES. SHORtS, BIllABONG, OCtOBER. JACKEt, JESSICA SImPSON, tHE BAY. SHIRt, HURlEY, HUSH & SHOUt. BAG, tOWN SHOES. BElt, HUSH & SHOUt. JACqUElINE’S SHIRt, mOUlé. PANtS, RACHEl mARA, mOUlé. DENIm SHIRt, tHE BAY. SHOES, BENSImON, ROOStER SHOES. BRACElEt, HUSH & SHOUt.

contents SPrInG 2011 VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 2

KnocK ouT FUNNY GUYS FROM ASTRON 6 GET A LITTLE VIOLENT IN THE STUDIO

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departments 12 HoT STuFF LUSCIOUS LASHES, STICKY BUNS, AND BLOOD SOAKED POPSICLES? WHAT’S HOT FOR SPRING 2011 14 BucKeT LIST 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD TAP INTO TAROT 16 Fed uP OUR FOODIE JAIME ZAPORZAN GRATIFIES US GLUTTONS WITH COCONUT CHEESECAKES 18 ABouT ToWn FROM DOT COM TO DéCOR DESTINATION; WE TRACK THE GROWTH OF VINTAGE FURNISHING SHOP, 84 ½ 20 THe STAGe MAGICIAN DARCY OAKE PROVES TRICKS AREN’T JUST FOR KIDS ANYMORE 22 THe Screen MOVIE MAKING CLAN ASTRON 6 HAS BUILT A LOYAL FANBASE BOOBIES, BLOOD, GUTS, AND GORE 28 BY deSIGn TIA POLVOROSA TALKS PAPARAZZI, PROVICI AND PORE PERFECTION 30 THe Sound WITH THE RECENT RELEASE OF A MUSIC VIDEO AND AN UPCOMING NEW ALBUM, THE LYTICS SOUND OFF 33 STreeT STYLe WINNIPEG’S MOST FASHIONABLE “STREET MEAT” 34 TALenT & TITS INTERIOR DESIGN GURU FIONA SANIPELLI FINDS HER CALLING IN COLOUR SCHEMES 49 BeAuTIFuL MAn JERA WOLFE TAKES CENTRE STAGE TO TALK GIRLS, GAYS AND GYM ROUTINES (OR LACK THERE OF) 52 revIeWS WE SAMPLE THE PRETTY RECKLESS, SARA BAREILLES, JORANE, AND MORE 55 MeMoIrS oF A WAnnABe dIvA COLUMNIST MAYIM GOLDMAN TELLS HATERS TO GET OUTTA HER WAY 92 HoW To FASHION FAVS ANDREW AND RAEZAVEL SHOW US HOW TO CREATE SOME AMAZING DIY FASHIONS 95 LIFe STorY THE HEART WRENCHING STORY OF A YOUNG MOTHER’S LOSS AND HER FAMILY’S ROAD TO RECOVERY 102 FASHIon FInder OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO SHOP, PRIMP AND PAMPER THIS SPRING 104 Mood BoArd IDEAS AND ITEMS THAT INSPIRED AND ExCITED US WHILE CREATING THIS ISSUE

uncovered

SANDBOX

PHOTOS BY BRITTANY ALYSE. HAIR BY ROGER MEDINA FOR BERNS & BLACK. MAKEUP BY DANIELA out of the blue BUTCURA. STYLED BY CASEY DOWNES. COVER STORY, SEE PAGE 56.

CorreCtion: the photos from “And the beAt goes on” (winter 2011) were inCorreCtly Credited. photos by VAlentin mittelstet.

SPRING 2011 $4.95

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SAndBoX SPRING 2011

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contents features 24 CELEBRITY INSPIRATION INSPIRED BY tHE lIFEStYlES OF tHE RICH AND FAmOUS, tHESE GOODS WIll lEAVE YOU StAR StRUCK 32 FOREvER BLuE JEANS DENIm INSPIRED PRODUCtS UNDER 15 BUCKS A POP 40 ONE PIECE, THREE LOOKS BlOG SENSAtION BREANNE SEWARDS SHOWS US HOW tO tURN CARGO PANtS CHIC, AND ROCK A BADASS BlAZER 43 TOY STORY BEING A KID IS mORE FUN ANYWAY. WE GEt DRESSED UP IN JEWElS AND SIFt tHROUGH tHE Ol’ tOY tRUNK 53 ECO CHIC “GREEN PIECE” FASHION SHOW WINNER AlESHA FREDERICKSON SHARES tHE SECREtS OF HER DESIGN 56 QuEEN OF SOuL SONGStRESS FlO WAS BORN tO PERFORm, AND SHE’S GOt tHE PIPES tO PROVE It 67 dOWN TO EARTH OUR GlAmAZONS GEt PREttIED IN PREP FOR SPRING 76 ENd TO ENd WE INVADE tHE GRAFFItI GAllERY FOR OUR BIGGESt mEN’S FASHION FEAtURE 84 BRAIN POWER BEING FASHION SAVVY HAS NEVER lOOKED SO SmARt 98 FuLL OF GuSTO DESEO OWNER SCOtt BAGSHAW SHARES HOW HE mANAGED tO tURN PUBlIC HUmIlIAtION INtO A PUBlIC RElAtIONS GOlDmINE 100 PASS THE vINO A PEEK INSIDE tHE ExCHANGE DIStRICt’S NEWESt WINE BAR

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SANdBOX SPRING 2011

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sandboxmag.com

revamped. revITaLIZed. reconnecTed.

SANdBOX JEFFREY vALLIS Editor-in-Chief SuZY BOdIROGA Creative Director

vANESSA KuNdERMAN Art Director

HEIdI dYCK Editorial Assistant ANdREA KIRBY BRITTANY KuNdERMAN Account Manager WRITERS Raezavel Argulla Faye Armstrong Megan Dee Benedictson Rebecca Bock-Freeman Ethan Cabel Andrew Chipman Andrea Collins Mayim Goldman Maeghan Heinrichs Kristy Hoffman Jason Krahn Lorilynn McCorrister Courtney Rutherford Kristy Rydz Pamela Wankling Jaime Zaporzan STYLISTS Casey Downes Eco Dzaman Bri Foster Daniel Gurevich Madison Rosas Chanelle Salnikowski COPY EdITORS Camille Dupas Sarah LundTeri Stevens ILLuSTRATORS Brensen Fortescue Victor Platon WEBSITE dESIGN Chad Evans WEBHOST MyNetMojo.ca PRINTER Winnipeg Sun Commercial Print Division

PHOTOGRAPHERS Brittany Alyse Jordyn Blair Lynlea Combot Meganelizabeth Diamond Brittany Dona-Lyn Ian McCausland Denise McMullin Pink Elephant Photography Izabela Rachwal Dennis Sapong Riley Stewart Lisa Varga Kat Willson Katy Winterflood HAIR Viz Cabrera Haley Golin April Hartle Guy Lemieux Hanna Little Chelsea Marinelli Amy McLachlan Roger Medina Choung Tran MAKEuP Cameron Brown Daniela Butcura Brittany Grace Jessica Kmiec Lidia Najero Meagan Perron Tia Polvorosa Jackie Tsouras Cherry Vicente Sabrina Wall

SANDBOX Magazine, PO BOX 48127, RPO Lakewood, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2J 4A3. Contents copyright © 2011 May not be reprinted without written permission. Single copy price: $4.95+tax. All reproduction requests must be made to SANDBOX Magazine at mail@sandboxmag.com. Special thanks to: Prairie Theatre Exchange, Chrstina Westman, Megan Tymura, Kliche Studios, Shelmerdine Garden Centre, Anthony Farrauto, The UWSA, Alex Espinosa, Lindsey Reisack, Sarah Rasmussen, Katrin Benedictson, Franz Abrams, Vintage Glory, Zia Hameed, Camren Friesen, Robyn Newton, Gabrielle Courteau

contri b utors

dANIEL GuREvICH FASHION StYlISt/mODEl “It’s all about maintaining consistency of form, shape, and proportion,” says Daniel Gurevich on how to make style work for you. Daniel styled our men’s fashion shoot (“E2E”, pg. 76) in our latest issue. “And never sacrifice the integrity of your style on fear of being judged.”

LISA vARGA PHOtOGRAPHER “The arts community in Winnipeg is tiny, yet powerful as ever,” says Lisa Varga, the photog who shot Scott Bagshaw (pg 98) and Sensi Wine Lounge (pg. 100) this issue.

Lisa’s influences include such photographers like Cass Bird, Laura Taylor, and Nirrimi Hakanson, among others.

KRISTY RYdZ WRItER “Writing has always been my first love,” says Kristy Rydz. “Followed closely by coffee.” In this issue, Kristy transcribed a heart wrenching Life Story (pg. 34). “At the end of the day, I strive to tell stories that touch people in one way or another.”

PHOtOGRAPHY BY KAtY WINtERFlOOD

CHANELLE SALNIKOWSKI FASHION StYlISt Fashion stylist and admitted shoe addict Chanelle Salnikowski went on a scavenger hunt to find the prep-perfect looks for “Down to Earth” on pg. 55. “I love playing off the assigned theme by adding a high fashion edge to the top trends of the season,” she says.

dANIELA BuTCuRA mAKEUP ARtISt “Keep it simple and classic,” says Daniela Butcura, of her best makeup advice. Daniela glammed up cover girl, Flo, and reveals that she will often use her favourite lipstick as blush or eye shadow.

SANdBOX SPRING 2011

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letter from the edi t or

ADDICtED tO CHANGE Spring has sprung and not a moment too soon. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good chunky knit and pretty much live for layering, but I’ve worn my Sorel boots so much that they’ve rubbed the hair off of my shins.

It’s time for a change.

This season is great for that. Spring is a time of rebirth, regrowth and renewal — coincidentally, all words I’d also use to describe this new issue.

We brought you big changes with “The Anniversary Issue”, and in this issue we’ve taken it to another level.

But this issue is also about taking chances. Fiona Sanipelli made a life changing decision when she gave up her successful interior design company to follow her dreams to New York City.

Jera Wolfe took a gamble

when he auditioned for So You Think You Can Dance Canada and made it to the top 20. And, Astron 6 risked their lives (literally) to make movies, since their operating budget consists of pocket change and a couple of bus tickets.

I also took a chance this issue when I approached Grant at a local nightclub to ask him to model for the mag. Alright, so maybe that wasn’t as risky, but anytime a gay guy approaches a big (he’s 6’4’’), straight guy in a bar and asks him to model, there’s always an element of risk — for your life.

Usually, though, if you’re lucky and work your ass off, the risk pays off. And I really think this issue has paid off.

Vanessa has been experimenting with layout and fonts, and Suzy’s been amping up the creativity for our photo shoots.

In the end, it all came together to create the best issue yet (totally biased, obviously).

We may not be at the same level of some of our favourite magazine titles just yet (although cover girl Flo assures us we are definitely the “Vanity Fair of Winnipeg”), but we sure have come a long way.

Last spring we photographed Meaghan Waller in a whirlwind four-hour, living room photo shoot before she jetted off to China. This spring, we set our own photo shoot record with an 11-hour, two-part marathon shoot with Flo where we took over Shelmerdine Garden Center and pretty much moved into Kliche Studios.

And now that the issue has wrapped, I just want to celebrate. Maybe it’s Britney’s new single “Till the World Ends” which has been on repeat for the past week or the fact that I finally have time to do laundry again, but whatever it is, I’ve “never felt like, felt like this before” and I’m kind of enjoying it.

—Jeffrey Vallis Editor in Chief

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SANdBOX SPRING 2011

scene at the party

Well, there ain't no party like a SANDBOX party.

PHOtOGRAPHY BY JORDYN BlAIR, tHE BIRtHDAY PARtY, CElEBRAtING OUR 1St ANNIVERSARY

Thanks for celebrating our big one year anniversary with us at Mystique Nightclub. We laughed, we cried, we came, we went, but we couldn’t have done it without you.

Here’s to you, SANDBOX babes.

SANdBOX SPRING 2011

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talki n g back Chat us up by mail, email, facebook, twitter or at SANDboXmAG.Com

e winn

r!

ON THE HORIZON I want to thank you for creating such a wonderful publication which brings light to the prairies. Not only are the ideas and editorials within your magazine beautiful to look at but also provoke passion and inspiration. I believe it is important to always have your past and where you have come from in your heart, but also to keep an eye on what is ahead. I feel that you have been able to do this by connecting the world to the prairies through art, fashion, culture and media. I look forward to your continued expansion.

—mARGARItA ARtIGA

shout it!

We want to hear what you think! Check out our website, sandboxmag.com to voice your thoughts on this issue. Give us your feedback at mail@sandboxmag.com and you could win our spring giveaway!

LEAP YEAR I just wanted to say that the whole concept of your magazine is awesome! I have always thought that this city needed something like this for the younger generations and it has so much to offer in terms of fashion, food, culture and arts! I think it’s very admirable the way you guys just took the leap and went for your dream... and it turned out great!

— ANDREA RANICK

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SANdBOX SPRING 2011

dOWN TIME Went to see the king’s Speech, but sold out. took solace in Snickers, cheesecake, latte & the latest @sandboxmag love it! Gets better & better.

SANdBOX LETTERS Send your letters to: SANDBOx magazine, PO Box 48127, RPO lakewood, Winnipeg, mB, R2J 4A3, or email us at mail@sandboxmag.com Please include your name, address and mail address.

We may edit your letters for length and clarity.

— lESlEYABOUttOWN (VIA twIttER)

HOME BREW I absolutely love this magazine. It’s great to see something so fantastic come out of Winnipeg.

— ANDREA lYNN BEltON (VIA fACEbook)

HELP IS ON THE WAY I just discovered @sandboxmag and I’m already addicted!

— mARIEBlAHBlAH

OH CANAdA Congrats on all of your accomplishments. Canada needs more great magazines. there is a serious hole in the market that you fill.

— lEANNE HAVElOCK PuT IT ON PAPER

CONGRAtS! on another beautiful issue! Keep setting the bar. magazines are an under-appreciated art form.

— mANNY mARtINS-KARmAN (VIA fACEbook)

(VIA twIttER)

W IN IT! the writer of the best letter will be published and win a Steeped tea prize pack, including six sample teas, clip on strainer, 50g toffee Crunch Rooibos tea, and 50g Dark Chocolate Chai tea. Delish!

SANdBOXMAG.COM

SPRING2011 RIGHT We had so much fun with Flo for the spring issue. She shook what her mama gave her for our cameras. BELOW Moviemakers, Astron 6, get silly for our the screen photo shoot.

Visit our website for behind-the-scenes photos and links to their dark comedy/ horror movies.

floAT ON

We get friendly with Soul Queen Flo, our cover girl, at the cover feature photo shoot this issue. Check out our private interview in our latest footage available only at SANDBOXmag.com

LEFT We catch up with local design-guru, Fiona Sanipelli, as she takes on New York.

Our website also features photos from Dennis Sapong’s studio. Spring fashion takes a dapper turn as we explore women’s fashion at the Millenium Library. Blog Queen Breanne Sewards helps us out by modeling this season’s two biggest trend pieces, and she shows us three ways to wear them! Visit our website for a link to Breanne’s blog, Flattery.

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hot stuff

WHAT’S UP DOC? Bunnies and carrots, left. cones wrapped in thread, Below.

NOT JUST SUGAR AND SPICE At first glance, you might think Liz Wolfe’s art is just sugar, spice and everything nice.

But look again, because under the pale pink lilies lay pale pink chicken feet with pale pink nail polish.

Liz Wolfe juxtaposes delicacy with death, capturing the child-like innocence of pastel-coloured candy, mixing it bloodsoaked popsicles and octopus tentacles and intertwining it with similar coloured flowers to shock and excite her audience.

The interesting mediums and materials used by Wolfe, such as sugars, edible powders, candies, seafood, beads, cacti, fake birds and flowers, are inspired by spending time in dollar stores, looking at window displays, and working in the restaurant business. Her work is metaphorical, fun, and an expression of emotion.

Visit www.lizwolfe.com to intepret the meaning behind Wolfe’s masterpieces.

hot stuff

by REBECCA BOCK FREEMAN

LASH LOVE check out these orBs from an actual lash love client. photo by ian mccausland.

PRETTY PEEPERS For centuries women have been enhancing their eyes to captivate and entrance their audiences. But what if they didn’t need to apply mascara or eyeliner everyday?

Eyelash extensions have been the secret to Hollywood glamour for years. Lucy Liu, Gwen Stefani, Naomi Campbell, and Nicole Kidman all live by them.

Lash Love owner, Angela, says that eyelash extensions are popular because they are, “one of those beauty tricks that instantly enhances a woman’s appearance”.

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SANDBOX sprinG 2011

We’re not talking about false eyelashes, flares, or glued on chunks of lashes, which can look artificial and last only a few days. We’re talking about eyelash extensions placed meticulously, one lash at a time, by a trained technician.

The extensions takes less than two hours and can last six to eight weeks, creating a natural and fuller looking set of lashes without makeup.

Longer, fuller, thicker, curlier, more dramatic lashes will intensify your look, framing the entrance to your soul perfectly.

A SPOT OF TEA Steeped Tea is the latest trend in home sales parties which encourage family connections and stability in life. The Canadian company’s goal is to empower women and provide the ability to start low risk business opportunity to entrepreneurs of any age.

Anita McKnight resides in Portage La Prairie and was one of the first to bring Steeped Tea parties to Manitoba. While pregnant with her son, Anita was looking for a home-based business with flexible hours and quality products. She found Steeped Tea and became a consultant creating, “My Steeped Tea”. Steeped Tea offers black, white, green, rooibis, herbal and fruit teas from around the world, ranging in price, but starting at $8.99 for 100 grams. The catalogue is not limited solely to loose teas; it also includes soaps, face masks, and tea pots.

Steeped Tea is about celebrating the simple joys of life and sharing them with the ones you love.

For more information e-mail mysteepedteas@gmail.com or check out Anita’s website www. mysteepedtea/amcknight.com

HIGH TEA order these cute and colourful heart teacups when you Book a steeped tea party.

hot stuff BUNS OF STEEL tasty cinnamon Bun from Jonnies sticky Buns. yum!

HOT CROSS BUNS After years of training with an array of “interesting characters”, owners Jon and Rheanna are “revolutionizing the cinnamon bun” with Jonnies Sticky Buns, a new local bakery on Portage Ave. The bakery offers everything from the Leroy, a no frills bun on organic white to the Breakfast Bun with maple syrup, local organic bacon and baked apples. Options also include the Dharma, a vegan bun on whole wheat with in-house stone-milled spelt. And if you are looking to indulge in everything good and organic, try the Herb & Cheese, the Caramel

Rosemary, the Carrot Ginger or even the Gluten Free bun.

Prices range from $1.50 for a simply scrumptious bun, to $3.25 for a decadent and delicious bun. They even sell homemade sugar cane sodas.

Built with the help of family and friends, Jonnies Sticky Buns is a community hub.

Scrabble, battles of words and wit, and musical musings frequent “the Bunnery” and you will too.

Visit www.jonniesstickybuns.com for more information, or stop by 941 Portage Ave.

ART FREAK our male models strike a pose at Graffiti Gallery. photo by denise mcmullin.

ART FREAK We invaded Graffiti Gallery for our men’s fashion photo shoot (pg. 76) and completely fell in love with the space. The gallery is also a not-for-profit community art centre and the only one of its kind in North America for artists of all ages. And they aren’t limited to graffiti, they offer classes and showcase work from artists of various genres such as traditional art, urban art (including hip hop art, graffiti art, street art), Aboriginal art, contemporary art, and performance art. With some incredible (free) drop-in classes like graffiti art and break dancing, the Graffiti Gallery is officially our new favourite hangout. Check out www.graffitigallery.ca for scheduling and information.

EYE SPY

Our top pick for chic sunglasses this season is Cinzia’s “New Hollywood” collection. This beautiful collection relives the retro glam styles made popular by some of the most iconic fashionistas.

“Curious”, the chic cat-eye design, screams Marilyn Monroe in a simple black or sexy tortoise shell finish, while “Flashcard” is reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn — the red tortoise finish is to die for. All styles provide 99 to 100 per cent UV protection while keeping your look sophisticated and fresh.

The most exciting part about Cinzia’s styles are their big-button, felt clutch sunglass cases. It’s so easy to just throw your sunglasses into your bag because, let’s be honest, sunglass cases are most often bulky and ugly. But Cinzia’s big-button and small-button clutchstyle sunglass cases are the perfect solution. You can keep you sunglasses safe, with room for your credit card and lipstick. Visit www.cinziadesigns.com for more information.

HOME GROWN The Winnipeg Fashion Incubator is a new organization set to premiere in 2011 in Winnipeg.

Spearheaded by a committee of designers, hair and makeup artists, and experienced business managers, the festival will focus on Winnipeg’s original sense of style and the vibrant fashion designers that call this city home.

The group sees its future as a leader in the resurgence of the fashion industry in Winnipeg, with plans to develop a worker co-op, secure space for co-operation and collaboration, and to develop the necessary custom-sewing training opportunities to support local designers. In addition to presenting high calibre professional shows of its own, the Winnipeg Fashion Incubator will also act as a coordinating opportunity for the many community-based shows presented by various groups throughout the year.

The Winnipeg Fashion Incubator will hold their official launch event on May 19, 2011 at FAME nightclub (279 Garry St). From 7:00 – 10:00 p.m, guests will preview some local trends and the talented designers behind them. There will also be a designer’s market to purchase items. Tickets are $12 or two for $20 in advance, $15 or two or $25 at the door. Email info@ winnipegfashionincubator.com for tickets or more details.

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cOllect sOMe OF tHese cRYstAls tO eNHANce YOuR cARd ReAdiNGs. HOld ONe iN YOuR HANd OR POcket WHile YOu beGiN A sPReAd ANd AllOW its beNeFits tO Aide YOuR ReAdiNG. MANGANO cAlcite Releases fear and grief, bringing in unconditional love.

Aids in self-acceptance, lifts tension and anxiety. cHRYsOcOllA Provides inner strength and balance in communication and expression. Grounding, purifies and attunes one to the earth.

FuN FAct AbOut tHe PAck Artist Cheryl Lee Harnish will create your own Fractal art portrait that is attuned to your personal energy and higher self. These portraits cost $500 and come on a 16x20 paper art print. For a cheaper method of accessing Fractal art, download the Path of the Soul iPhone app.

cHAROite A “stone of transformation” synthesizes the crown and heart chakras. Heals and integrates dualities. blOOdstONe Helps ground and organize the mind. Aids in staying in the heart and present moment. Stone of courage, stamina and vitality.

RAiNFORest JAsPeR Represents progress, enhances creativity towards goals. Excellent for meditation. Strengthens soul, body and mind. blue lAce AGAte Assists in spiritual elevations, promotes inspiration, grace and awareness of synchronicities.

bucket list

10 ReAsONs WHY YOu sHOuld leARN tO ReAd YOuR cARds beFORe YOu kick tHe bucket

Photography by KAT WILLSON Hair by HALey GOLIN for Berns & Black Makeup by BrITTANy GrAce for Safire Hair & esthetics Styled by ecO DZAMAN

bucket list

tHese kids WeAR cROWNs Rose crown by Kat Willson, $45. cRYstAl bAll See into your future.

Clear quartz Scrying stone from Radiance, $125.

ONe

With a wide variety of card types out there, you are certain to find one that fits you. You are not bound to only selecting tarot cards; try soul cards, angel cards or destiny cards.

tWO

Becoming acquainted with your cards can help you develop your own third eye, or “psychic” mindset. All that means is being more aware of your intuition.

tHRee

Becoming accustomed to your own cards may open up other doors for you in order to further develop your abilities.

Many new age stores carry other tools for you to explore, such as runes, crystals or stones and a wide variety of books.

FOuR

A lot of the negative connotations associated with card readers have dissipated in the last 20 years. Now is

a better time than ever to dabble with card reading. There is a wide selection of support systems available for you.

FiVe

Your cards will never change your astrological sign — no matter what part of the world you live in.

siX

Card reading is all about the energy you put into the world, and what you intend to give back to it. It doesn’t involve any gruesome sacrifices or potions. It pertains to becoming a healthier and happier person.

seVeN

In newer decks, the Devil and Death card have been changed to the Bondage and Change card so they aren’t as intimidating as they used to be. Besides, the Death card isn’t the “worst” card in the pack; the ten of swords is the worst. Keep in mind all the cards are open to interpretation.

eiGHt

Hollywood has created a pretty creepy illusion of what card readers are like, but not all readers are rickety, old women who wear capes and hide out behind bookstores. You can have a great meal and get your cards read at the same time. Visit Star Grill at 2069 Portage Avenue for a tasty treat and get a reading while you’re there.

NiNe

While we’re talking Hollywood, Whoopi Goldberg from the movie Ghost should be enough to pique your interest. Hello, Patrick Swayze!

teN

Reading your cards can provide you with a lot of insight into your life.

People often think what the cards say is the be all end all to one’s destiny, but the cards merely present one of the many paths a person can choose to take in his or her life.

sANdbOX SPRING 2011

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FED UP

coconut cheesecakes You will need:

Coconut Cheesecake Base 12 cupcake liners 2 (8 ounce) packages of cream cheese (at room temperature) ½ cup sugar 1 tsp vanilla 2 eggs 2/3 cup of toasted, sweetened coconut flakes

Recipe by JAIME ZAPORZAN Photography by BRITTANY DONA-LYN Hair by AMY MCLACHLAN for Angles Salon Makeup by DANIELA BUTCURA Styled by CHANELLE SALNIKOWSKI

coconut cheesecakes Spring is the season of rebirth. We ditch the hoodies and Sorels to become reacquainted with playful colour in our favourite spring collections. And we are all too happy to once again say goodbye to frost and hello to flowers.

Take the time to celebrate these feelings of joy and rejuvenation by baking a batch of coconut cheesecakes. While the exterior may look like your basic, run of the mill cupcake, the inside is anything but ordinary.

The base is a rich and creamy coconut cheesecake, hidden by a piped topping of airy vanilla mousse. Make sure to share with friends and family… beach season is just around the corner, after all!

Directions: one Beat the vanilla instant pudding with the cold half and half for two minutes. two Fold in the whipped topping. three Chill in the fridge for at least one hour.

Four Preheat oven to 350°F. Five In a large bowl, combine room temperature cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Beat well until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well until thoroughly blended. Add toasted coconut flakes. six Pour cheesecake mixture two thirds of the way up the cupcake liners (inside muffin tins). Bake for 12-15 minutes. They are done when the centre is set and doesn’t jiggle when moved. seven Allow the cheesecakes to cool completely before piping chilled mousse on top. tip: Garnish mousse topping with chopped Skor bar, toasted nuts, or more toasted coconut. The cheesecake/mousse combination is smooth and velvety; these options will add a desirable crunchy texture to your creation!

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SANDBOX sPring 2011

Jaime’s blouse, shorts and belt, Paramix. Pearl braCelet and rng, hush & shout

Vanilla Mousse Topping 2 cups half and half 1 package of vanilla instant pudding 1 cup of whipped topping (Cool Whip)

What’s your dream?

Do you dream of building your own successful business?

Protecting your financial security in case of a critical illness?

Buying your first home?

Financial security planning isn’t just about retirement; it’s about helping make your dreams come true. To find our more about how I can help you achieve all your goals and dreams, please contact me today.

Vanessa Kunderman Financial Security Advisor

124 Nature Park Way, Winnipeg, MB R3P 0X7

204-489-1012, ext. 289 vanessa.kunderman@f55f.com

Freedom 55 Financial and design are trademarks of London Life Insurance Company.

about town

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

about town “I BLAmE SKATEBOARDINg,” says Abi Torquato, owner of 84 ½.

“Skateboarding has to do with a lot of things. You get it if you’re a skateboarder and you truly love artwork and the design of things.”

The eclectic furniture/art store tucked in the heart of the Exchange District opened five months ago, selling mid-century modern furniture and premium goods.

But its history dates back ten years with modernlove.com, a website that sells furniture designs internationally.

Torquato started the website with friend and business partner, Roan Barrion, and according to Barrion, opening the store was simply the next step.

“84 ½ has its own identity. The website is focused on vintage furniture. 84 ½ has the local collaborations and the contemporary crafts and artisans,” says

BOWLED OVER ITALIAN GOLD LEAF CERAMIC STUDIO POTTERY BOWL, $100

Barrion. “The website is going to be 10 years old. You can only go so far with it.”

Torquato adds, “A long time ago I said, ‘I’m going to open up a store. I’m going to do this. We’re going to mix it with our friends who make beautiful art.’ We collaborate with our friends who have been artists for 15-20 years.”

Next, they will collaborate with Winnipeg artist,Takashi to make screenprinted tote bags. Only 20 bags will be produced.

“If we collaborate with

(12×6)÷8+(√9)×10-35½= HOW PASSION AND A FEW CREATIVE COmPANIONS, HELPED TO ESTABLISH THE CITY’S NEWEST VINTAgE DECOR SHOP. Story by PAMELA WANKLING Photography by LYNLEA COMBOT

A-OK VINTAGE INDUSTRIAL LETTER (FORMER STORE-FRONT SIGN)

84 ½ carries Lavallee’s artwork and the guys have a special project collaboration planned with him in the near future.

Another artist Barrion and Torquato believe in is Roy Liang, who used to use a pseudo name.

“He’s ok with putting his own name on things now. He sees how people really love his stuff. It made me so happy to see that he actually puts his name on his product.

Feeling for something that you’ve created is a big deal for artists,” says Torquato.

And, Torquato and Barrion love what they do.

“People who come in here can really tell that we have a passion for what we do. They can tell we’re knowledgeable. I can tell you a story and you will appreciate what you buy so much more. It’s not just a chair, it’s a piece of history,” says Barrion.

84½

someone, we only do 20. Super limited edition,” says Torquato, explaining he’d rather the bag be special than to see every second person walking around with one — even if it means losing out on sales.

“Honestly, I’m good. I’m doing this because I love this. It’s not about money at all. It’s about getting our friends’ pieces of artwork out there and our furniture to people.”

Barrion explains, “Our collaborations are intimate. If we don’t have an intimate relationship or are very knowledgeable with [the artist’s] work, we don’t carry it. If you have a passion for something, it’s a lot easier to sell.”

“That’s why this store is working, because we have such a passion and belief in the stuff we carry,” adds Torquato.

Torquato “discovered” local artist Kenneth Lavallee, when he was 16, “I said to him, this is what you need to do with the rest of your life. And look at him now, he’s growing and maturing. He’s a super talent that we have in this city.”

HAVE A SEAT RARE NIPIGON CHAIR

BY DUTCH DESIGNER JAN KUYPERS, $300

SANDBOX SPRING 2011

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THE Stage

“F

You tell people you’re a magician and they’re like, ‘what kind of instrument do you play?’

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

THE Stage

THE MAN BEHIND THE DARCY OAKE HAS MORE THAN A FEW TRICKS UP HIS SLEEVE

Story by FAYE ARMSTRONG Photography by DENNIS SAPONG for Kliché Studios Sure, 23-year-old Darcy Oake’s natural charm and full sleeve of tattoos give him that instant babe factor that is all too irresistible — no tricks necessary. But luckily, Oake’s not looking to fool your heart. Instead, he thrives on fooling your eyes and mind, through the art of magic.

This is the kind of magic that doesn’t involve rabbits or giant blades.

His performances put a new spin on the traditional magic show and range from corporate events to cocktail parties to the club scene.

“Magic as an art, for the most part, hasn’t progressed,” says Oake.

MaGiC “Most magicians stay together in a pack and there’s no outside influence.

Most of the illusion shows are all eye candy, basically. I try to do things that you can relate to. It’s all about the psychology behind it and the impact it can have if it’s done properly.”

Oake’s interest in magic dates back to the age of 10, when his dad pulled the old ‘pick a card’ trick.

“I was tortured for weeks with how he knew what card I chose,” he says.

Eventually he learned that his mom, who had been standing behind him the whole time, was the secret to his dad’s knowledge. But it was that mindblown feeling that had him hooked.

“Being fooled isn’t exactly a good emotion,” he admits. “You have to make them want to be fooled.”

Oake says the key to his performances is to tell a story and to make an emotional connection with the audience.

“By the end of it, they kind of feel like they know me, and that’s how I get them in the palm of my hand.”

Based on his experiences, it seems like his method is working. His resumé boasts a cross-Canada tour and international performances, including a stint at The Magic Castle in Hollywood, which Oake describes as “a Mecca for magicians.” He has also scored tons of awards, and has the

honor of being the youngest recipient of the Pacific Rim Professional Stage Challenge, a people’s choice award that saw him beat out a slew of top professional magicians.

But despite his professional recognition, Oake still struggles to break people’s views of what it means to be a magician.

“You tell people you’re a magician and they’re like, ‘what kind of instrument do you play?’” he jokes.

“A lot of people ask, ‘so what’s your day job?’ It’s not seen as a legit career path, but I’ve been making a living out of it for years. I’ve kind of embraced it though. People have certain expectations and then you blow them away.”

And for those who aren‘t, it’s just another opportunity for Oake to improve his craft.

“Anytime you do things that people aren’t comfortable with, there are going to be people who are instantly going to hate you,” he explains. “But that being said, people’s negative opinions will never affect whether or not I do something. I do this because it’s what I love.”

T

Watch videos of Darcy’s performances at www.darcyoakemagic.com

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THE SCREEN

matthew kennedy

y s a t n a f d e nd t s i tupidity a s , 6 dark tw n o r t s

adam Brooks

ea collectiv ess g in k a -m s to succ t e r c e for film s e n are th imaginatio conor sweeney

Story by ETHAN CABLE Photography by DENNIS SAPONG for Kliché studios Hair by ROGER MEDINA for Berns & Black Makeup by JACKIE TSOURAS for Antidote Beauty Styled by MADISON ROSAS

Jeremy gillespie

steven kostanski

“When you put your life in danger, you always have good footage,” says Adam Brooks,

member of independent film-making collective, Astron 6.

While Hollywood studios spend millions on stunt men, the members of this cash-poor Winnipeg-based collective have no qualms leaping back and forth from two rust buckets as they speed down a rural dirt road.

“We took two cars out and smashed them together...these cars were both unregistered; unlicensed,” says Brooks, leaning far forward next to fellow member Conor Sweeney in a downtown Winnipeg cafe.

While shooting a car chase in Astron 6’s feature film, Father’s Day, Brooks had

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sandBoX SPRING 2011

to stay balanced on the hood of a Jeep, jump on to another speeding truck, struggle to rescue a damsel in distress, and then get thrown down onto the dusty road.

“If you followed all the right laws, you couldn’t do it for less than $35,000, and we did it for less than $200.We’re really doing stupid things to make this happen.”

The five members of Astron 6 (the sixth member is the audience), established in 2007, thrive on thrift.

All of the members, which include actor Matthew Kennedy, graphic designer Jeremy Gillespie, special effects artist Steven Kostanski, comedian Conor Sweeney, and starving artist/ editor/business manager Adam Brooks

make no money and are forced to fund the movies themselves.

“Our movies cost nothing,” says Brooks. “They cost whatever the costumes at Value Village cost.”

The collective was named Astron 6 due to its similarity with Vestron, a home video company that distributed and produced mostly straight-to-video B movies in the 1980s.

It should come as no surprise, then, that the collective has filmed over 10 short, genre-bending throwbacks to old VHS videos.

“Movies from that era looked more interesting, the characters were more interesting, the way they were shot was more interesting. It sticks with you,” says Sweeney.

“

THE SCREEN

We added dicks and organs and nudity and genital mutilation and then it became interesting.”

Among the Astron 6 catalogue of Internet-based short movies are bizarre films like Punch Out, a cruel homage to The Breakfast Club featuring unsympathetic and sex-starved idiots, and their slasher/horror/dark comedy flicks like Insaneophenia, Inferno of the Dead and Gore Blade.

The crown jewel, a film that brought together the talents of each member, is the disturbingly funny, Cool Guys (a loose satire of 1989’s Weekend at Bernie’s) that stars three “fuck-ups” on a hedonistic beach vacation gone terribly, murderously awry.

Their latest film (and their first featurelength movie), Father’s Day, is a horror epic about one man’s quest for vengeance against a serial dad rapist.

The film is being funded and produced

by Troma Entertainment, Inc. an independent B-movie horror studio, who struck a deal with Astron 6 based on the strength of their trailer for Father’s Day. “I remember telling them (the other members) we had to go far with sex, violence, or gross-out,” says Brooks of the film’s trailer.

“We added dicks and organs and nudity and genital mutilation and then it became interesting.”

Troma contacted Brooks with a business proposal after Lloyd Kaufman, the cofounder of Troma, did a promotional video to help sell an Astron 6 DVD release.

Troma informed them that Kaufman had become interested in their over-thetop horror trailer and was willing to fund

clothes from the Bay. shoes from toWn shoes. mascot heads from gags unlimited.

Father’s Day as a feature while distributing the Astron 6 short film catalogue to a wider audience.

Now, with only Sweeney and Brooks living permanently in Winnipeg, the other members of Astron 6 fly to Winnipeg during their holidays for marathon, 20-hour-a-day shoots.

Regular actress Amy Groening is anxiously preparing for one of their last sleepless Father’s Day shoots, to take place over spring break.

“They’re not normal movies,” says Groening, a University of Winnipeg acting student who has worked with Astron 6 for four years. “You’re not sitting across a table being boring, you’re stripping and shooting people and being covered in fake barf.” sandBoX SPRING 2011

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celeb style

IN THE BUFF Nude pumps maximize leg length, making your gams look extra long. ALDO.

OUT OF THE TRENCHES A true staple, this camel trench is a must-have for spring. The Bay.

BURBERRYTASTIC Spritz on this sexy scent to smell like the face of Burberry herself. The Bay, Burberry London.

Photography by KAT WILLSON Illustrations by BRENDEN FORTESCUE

POST HARRY POTTER

emma watson Fashion-forward Emma Watson finally shed her witchy ways and emerged onto the scene with a fresh new crop, a new look, and a new fashion line called Pure Threads, a collabortation with Alberta Ferretti. Proving she’s all grown up, Emma has caught our eye as a stylish celeb this spring.

PUCKER UP Much easier than sucking on raspberries, this hue is flattering for a fair complexion like that of Emma’s. The Bay, Chanel lipstick, Taffettas Rose.

ALL BOOKED UP A girl can never be too well read. Chapters, Little Women, Mrs Dalloway, The Woman in White.

SET ABLAZE A nice change from her Harry Potter days, this blazer brings new meaning to magical.

The Bay.

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

celeb style BLIND SIGHTED Day, night—it doesn’t matter. These shades look great any time of day. Vintage Glory.

SLICK Slip this comb in your back pocket for instant touch-ups.

HATS OFF TO YOU This classy fedora is a must-have for spring.

Haberdashery.

IN THE MUSICAL NINE

DANIEL DAY LEWIS If Daniel Day Lewis knows one thing, it’s that a musical with Fergie, Marion, Nicole, Kate, Penelope, Sophia and Judy can propel any man into instant sex appeal. Check out these finds inspired by dapper dresser Daniel Day.

SALT N’ PEPPER Sometimes a little grey goes a long way.

Shoppers Drug Mart.

FIT TO BE TIED A skinny black tie is a chic replacement to the everyday tie.

Haberdashery.

HAVANA NIGHTS One puff of these bad boys and even Mr. Lewis would be jealous.

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celeb style

TIME OUT Keep track of all your hot dates with this stylin’ watch.

Spareparts.

SMOOTH SAILING Every guy needs to look a little badass sometimes. Leather to the rescue. Vintage Glory.

DOUBLE TROUBLE Fresh breath is a must for any wannabe ladies man.

JAWS OF LIFE Maybe you didn’t slay the shark but this tooth was still cool for 1997.

Grand Beach boardwalk shops.

THE BREAKER HIGH DAYS

RYAN GOSLING The Canadian show Breaker High only aired from 1997 to 1998, but Ryan Gosling never left our hearts.

This leading man has come a long way in the movie biz but we can’t forget where he came from.

JUNK IN THE TRUNK When high school is spent on a boat, flashy swim trunks are a musthave. American Apparel.

SOUND OFF Turn up the beats with this headset without getting kicked out of class. Spareparts.

LET’S GO FOR A DIP Nothing says “Life’s a Beach” like the permawet look. Shoppers Drug Mart.

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

celeb style TINTED TOOTSIES Well-manicured hands and feet are a must for this classy gal. OPI, Chinaglaze.

GOLD RUSH Smell like a saint with this rich scent. , Versace, The Bay.

BIG RED Nothing says “kiss me” like a full red pout. Dior, Celebrity Red, The Bay.

CIRCA OVERBOARD

GOLDIE HAWN With undeniably expensive taste, Goldie Hawn’s “nail polishing, toe polishing, rich-bitch, sun-tanning” persona is nothing short of fierce. A classic red lip and a sun-kissed glow are imperative to achieving this look.

SUIT UP Hang up your tired black body suit and don a red one like Goldie. American Apparel.

REFLECTING Slip this compact into your purse for a quick fix throughout the day.

Vintage Glory.

BRONZED BEAUTY Get your glow on the safe way with this decadent bronzer.

The Bay.

BLING BLING A girl can never have too many gold earrings.

Vintage Glory.

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by design

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

by design

MAKEUP MAVEN MAENAD

Story by Kristy Hoffman Photography by Brittany alyse makeup by tia polvorosa for provici Cosmetics

The studio seems still under soft light.

Blends of warm almond, deep chocolate, and fresh cream denote the foundation space, while vibrant colours named spontaneous, iconic, and super femme busy the countertop.

Yet even the flamboyancy of the peppy lipstick collection does not measure up to that of Tia Polvorosa: inventor and possessor of it all.

“I had the ambition to be financially successful,” she begins. “I worked three jobs and my partner at the time said, ‘you know what, babe, you are not going to get rich this way.’ He asked what I wanted to do and I mentioned makeup artistry and he suggested designing my own line.”

Before long, the idea became a reality, and what we now know as Provici Cosmetics was born. The line is comprised of gentle blushes, eye shadows in melded charcoals and retro greens, shapely lip liners, and rows and rows of thick, black eyelashes. The focus, however, rests at the foundation.

“Through a process called swatching ,we are able to custom blend the perfect shade,” Polvorosa explains. “We can take someone who is half Danish and half Swahili and produce an exact match.”

By crafting makeup according to a fashion-oriented vision and refining it to meet the needs of her market, Polvorosa, with the help of a chemist, produces something compelling, yet practical. The products serve as the literal structure to Provici, but it is Polvorosa’s dynamic past and eclectic series of experiences that hold the true substance of the line.

She began her career at George Brown College in Toronto studying fashion design and graduating as designer of the year in the late ’90s. Closely following, Polvorosa was named one of the seven best designers in Toronto and was offered her own label in Montreal, among other major cities. Rather than seizing the opportunity, however, she managed to land an even better one.

“I got scooped up by a magazine called MEGA, which is the Vogue of Asia,” she explains while glancing in the mirror, tussling a set of razor-sharp bangs. “I styled celebrities, models, and heads of state for no less than $5,000 a day and lived between Manila, Hong Kong and

TIA POLVOROSA SHARES THE SECRET FORMULA FOR SUCCESS: BEAUTY & BRAINS. Bangkok over a span of three years.”

Returning to Winnipeg after tiring of a life shadowed by paparazzi and the media, she accepted a position at MAC cosmetics.

“Because I was number one, I lost all my friends. So I eventually came back, but I was not young and cute like you anymore,” she says with a wink. “I thought about my future, about taking the principles of fashion design and applying them to makeup. And voila!

Here we are.”

“Here” is the McDermot Avenue makeup studio, located above Connect Four Clothing. Polvorosa spends most of her time there these days. After acknowledging a looming divide between thoughts on life direction, the longstanding relationship between her and her former partner dissolved.

“I wanted to own the world and become very ambitious about the whole thing, whereas he expressed interest in a nine-to-five routine.”

Financially bound, she allotted right of all assets to her former partner in exchange for one thing: possession of the business they had created together.

Polvorosa credits her love of the products, and of makeup at large, as the foundation to her recovery.

“In the beginning, it was a labour of love,” she explains. “However, the knowledge that I could be resilient, I could evolve financially, that whisked me onto a separate path. And believe me, it gets crazy. But it is something to call my own.”

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a

THE Sound

“

Drake is doing a good thing for Canada... it’s opening the door for a lot of Canadian artists.

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

BIG SCREEN Check out sandboxmag.com to see the Lytics’ slick new music video.

a

Anger and hostility seem to be the norm for mainstream rappers.

So when a hip hop group with positive, upbeat lyrics that don’t involve violence step onto the scene, it’s a welcomed breath of fresh air. For Winnipeg hip-hop group The Lytics, it’s all part of their image, “People don’t want to talk to you when you’re pissed off,” explains Anthony, 20, the youngest brother in the group. “When you’re happy and talking to everyone, they want to know about you.”

“There are so much ridiculous extras that take away from the music and have people focused on other things,” oldest brother Alex, 30, adds. “When you have

THE Sound A Tribe Called Quest as their main influences, The Lytics recognize artists such as Drake and Kanye West for their contributions to the scene.

“Drake is doing a good thing for Canada,” says Andrew. “I think it’s opening the door for a lot of Canadian artists.”

The brothers admit that they weren’t the closest growing up. It wasn’t until after Mungala moved in and they started making music together that they began hanging out and growing closer.

“Everybody gets along pretty well.

We fight like normal brothers,” says Alex. “But it’s a big enough group that if someone’s ignoring you, you can go hang

BOYS IN THE HOOD

WITH INTERNATIONAL GIGS AND A NEW ALBUM IN THE WORKS, WINNIPEG HIP-HOP GROUP THE LYTICS ARE ON THE FAST TRACK TO FAME. Story by LORILYNN MCCORRISTER Photography by DENISE MCMULLIN

other drama going on, people only want to know about that. I think it would be a lot of work and stressful to keep that message up.”

The Lytics, made up of brothers Alex, Anthony, and Andrew, 22, cousin Mungala, 25, and “brother from another mother” DJ Lonnie, 26, have seemed to have found a recipe that works. They’ve recently played the SXSW music festival in Texas, performed as part of Canadian Music Week in Toronto, and had a showcase at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. They’ve also just released their first music video for “Last Bit (Lovely Words),” which has been put into rotation on MuchMusic and MTV Canada.

Through it all, the group remains humble as ever. They each have part-time jobs to pay the bills, and all of the money made from shows and merchandise goes back into building and supporting The Lytics, with studio time and tours.

“It’s a hungry baby that keeps eating and crying for food,” jokes Alex.

Citing De La Soul, N.E.R.D., and

out with another person.”

“Andrew’s got a history of jinxing Mungala’s dates,” says Lonnie, after someone discloses Mungala’s pending “mystery date” following the interview.

“I didn’t jinx you,” argues Andrew, before explaining his side of the story.

“He thinks if he tells me the name of his girl he’ll jinx it and it won’t happen, but I don’t believe that, so I get mad.”

All of the guys in the group are currently single, except for Lonnie, which might be a good thing since 2011 is already shaping up to be a pretty busy year for them. The Lytics are re-releasing their first album, which will be available at HMV, working on a brand new album that drops in August, and planning to spend the better part of the year on tour.

“They’ll be doing new videos for the new album, new website, new everything,” says manager Cassin Elliot.

“The biggest thing is getting people out there to see them. The live shows keep people coming back. I think that’s how they’ve gotten to where they are.”

For more on information on The Lytics, visit www.thelytics.com.

A closer look at the lyrics behind The Lytics’ new single, “Last Bit (Lovely Words)” With the last bit of lovely words left in my lungs/ I told her, that she’ll be something, something special, special to someone, but just not me/ With the last bit of lovely words left in my lungs/ I told her, that she’ll be something, something special, special to someone, but just not me/ See I’ll tell you something cool/ See it was nice at first, then we started to develop some type of heartburn/ Man it hurt and I went on, wouldn’t sleep at night, would be up at break a dawn just thinking/ Wondering, sinking in my thoughts, brain fry like a pan and boil like a pot/ Wasn’t really sure so a comma not a dot/ I’m a man in this rain with no brothers, nowadays see I’m even scared to hug her/ Scared to reignite the flame I’m sucker, made me lover when she wanted to/ But it’s different now I think I’m better solo boo/ Well not solo but I know I’m just not into/ I gave you some answers now I’m done with this interview/ I’m sorry, I’m done, I’m just not that guy/ 1 time, 2 times, 3 times we tried, went back went forward now we can’t rewind/ You may be pressed to listen/ And all that crazy stressing/ Got this life of learning tough but it’s a welcomed mission/ And all these lessons learned are blessed and I’m glad we listened/ It’s hard to struggle on but yo I’m still well wishing/ Ma belle misses, stay swell misses, x and o’s stay real love hugs and kisses/ I must admit it’s tough to let you go, with that said I gotta let you know/ It’s a bitter rough end but it’s best for both/ And what tends to test the tough is what hurts the most/And what mends a broken heart’s painfully slow, but we grow/ We grow up and grow on, with new love and new songs and so on and so on/ So, so long, and I know, like you know we’re too strong not to go on... so go on/

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accessories HEY! GET IN LINE

MAGIC WAND

Give your tired black liquid liner a break and go blue! Wet n Wild, Mega Liner, $5.49.

Apply navy mascara to make your peepers extra bright. Covergirl, Professional mascara, $6.49.

SCRUB A DUB DUB This body polish wipes away the dry skin of winter and leaves you silky smooth. Joe Fresh, body polish, $5.

JUST FACE IT Treat your face to this luxurious face creme. $8.97.

SO POLISHED Paint your tootsies this colour and they’ll never sing the blues. Joe Fresh nail polish, $4.

PEARLY WHITES Slather on this transclucent lip gloss and instantly brighten your smile. Covergirl, Wetslicks, $6.49.

BLUE JEAN BABY

THE CLASSIC AMERICAN BLUE JEANS MAKES ITS WAY FROM OUR CLOSETS TO OUR COSMETIC BAGS. IN TRUE BLUE STYLE, HERE ARE OUR FAVOURITE “DENIM” INSPIRED PRODUCTS UNDER $15. PHOTOS BY KATY WINTERFLOOD

WIPED CLEAN Wipe off the day’s dirt before bedtime with this gentle remover. L’Oréal, Dermo Expertise makeup remover. $9.99.

BLUE EYED BEAUTY A girl can never wear too much blue eye shadow.

Especially not from this pallete. Revlon Custom Eyes, $11.99.

BLACK N’ BLUE Make your dark strands really shine with this blue black hair dye. L’Oréal, Noirs Fatals. $9.99

I’ll PENCIL YOU IN

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

Line eyes with this sparkle pencil to make your orbs pop.

Rimmel Spark it up, $6.99.

street style

streetstyle We always knew the people of the prairies were fashionable, hip and sophisticated. Now we can prove it.

Check out these eight individuals with envious wardrobes, found right here, in the heart of Canada.

Photography by MEAGANELIZABETH DIAMOND

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MATERIAl gIRl Fiona wears a dress from Out of the Blue, tights, American Apparel, headband, Paramix, shoes and shawl, stylist’s own.

Fabric provided by Mitchell Fabrics.

EMPIRE STATE OF MIND FIONA SANIPEllI’S MODERN DESIgN AND ElEgANT TASTE TAkE REFugE IN ThE BIg APPlE. Story by COURTNEY RUTHERFORD Photography by DENNIS SAPONG for Kliché Studios Hair by HALEY GOLIN for Berns & Black Makeup by SABRINA WALL Styling by ECO DZAMAN

talent & tits

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talent & tits

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM EXTERIOR OF SEGOVIA. INTERIOR DINING ROOM OF CLAY OVEN. INTERIOR DINING ROOM OF HU’S ASIAN BISTRO. PROVIDED BY FIONA SANIPELLI.

E

clectic with a mix of vintage and sparkle are just a few words that Fiona Sanipelli uses to describe herself. Fitting for a girl who now lives in New York City.

Since making the move to the “Big Apple”, the former Winnipegger has realized a few things about her new home: it’s painfully expensive, you don’t have much down time, and you have to get used to being bumped into frequently.

Her passion for design began as a young girl growing up on the Canadian prairies. “I was obsessed with decorating my room from a very young age.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

“

Being a designer takes over your life because the line between career and passion is blurred.

SANDBOX SPRING 2011

37

The only restaurant that provides Chef Goyko’s ingenuity, a scenic view of downtown and fine dining.

130 Provencher Boulevard • ph 204-233-7030 Monday-Friday 7am-9pm • Saturday 8am-9pm • Sunday 8am-2pm

talent & tits FROM TOP TO BOTTOM RIGHT, LOUNGE AT VIVID NIGHTCLUB. LEFT, DEFINITION OF SAINT NORBERT’S BAR, THE NOB.

I

used to coordinate each corner of my room by colour, make home-made decorative accessories and create designs with posters that covered every inch of wall surface,” explains Sanipelli.

When many girls in grade nine would be straightening their hair and gossiping about boys, Sanipelli was driven, focused and already knew that, post high school, she would attend the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Architecture program. In 2005, Sanipelli held her Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Design in hand – ready to take on the world.

“You’re essentially paid to be creative. On some days my job is to pick out Buddha head statues or glue jewels to driftwood,” says Sanipelli. “Being a designer takes over your life because the line between career and passion is blurred.”

While high-stress is often considered a negative aspect of one’s job, Sanipelli believes it’s a perk of her industry. “Being a designer is great for people with low tolerance for boredom and a slight addiction to stress. Every day presents new problems and most tasks are the result of some kind of emergency,”

explains Sanipelli.

But the stress she became accustomed to while working in Winnipeg on such uniquely-designed restaurants like Clay Oven, Hu’s Asian Bistro and Segovia, is nothing compared to the pace and scale of her projects with AvroKo –– the New York architectural firm well known for its high-concept restaurant interiors.

“The projects I’ve worked on since being with the firm have far surpassed anything I could have imagined working on a couple years ago. They are large scale, but very detailed and I get to work with some of the most talented people in the business,” she says.

Currently, she is busy working on a project to be built in Asia and a second to be built in California that references the beauty of Asian Nature.

Living in the city of bright lights and working with top designers is now commonplace for the former prairie girl who’s had to adjust tp the fast-paced lifestyle.

“One of my biggest challenges is making the difficult decision of which event to attend to on any given night.”

Must be nice.

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sanDboXfashion

one piece three looks

Photography by Pink ElEPhant PhotograPhy Styled by Suzy Bodiroga & VanESSa kundErman Make up by mEagan PErron Hair by Viz CaBrEra for Sets on Fort

the whiteblazer With white being a runway favourite this season, we’ve chosen a structured blazer in the newest neutral to add a tailored look to any outfit. Throw it over a pastel minidress and pair it with a classy pump for a chic evening look.

Accompany it with fitted trousers and a sleek bodysuit for a more preppy look, or try it over a band t-shirt with a playful skirt and heavy boots for a harder look that works well for day and evening.

white blazer, american apparel. green dress, hush & shout. shoes, rooster. bracelets, ring, hush & shout. bow tie, black body suit, loka. charcoal pant, american apparel. shoes, hush & shout. ring, out of the blue. blondie shirt, skirt, out of the blue. boot, rooster. ring, necklace, hush & shout.

Spring is the time to finally let our bare legs breathe, do a couple extra situps in the morning, and don some lighter fabrics. Twenty-year-old blog queen Breanne Sewards, from Lorette, Manitoba, helps us show this season’s two big fashion trends: the white blazer and the cargo pant. Check out her blog, leflattery.blogspot.com to see more of her favourite looks and fashion tips.

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SANDBOX: When did you start blogging?

Breanne: I started in September of 2009. I enjoyed posting my daily outfits there, but soon wanted to share my other interests of design and fashion with the world.

SB: What are some of the perks of having your blog?

BS: The best perks are definitely being noticed or sponsored by companies and being sent free clothing. I think the most

SANDBOXfashion

the cargopant Military-inspired pieces have carried on from fall through to spring, but rather than pairing them with fur trim and heavy knits, airy fabrics and lightweight cotton make the trend more practical for warmer weather. An army-green cargo pant acts as the perfect piece for your spring wardrobe, and makes a great alternative to jeans. A sheer feminine blouse and a dark lip make this look appropriate for evening, while a cotton t-shirt and cropped blazer make it easy to wear for day. Or, try it with a flowy blouse and chunky lace-up wedges for a look that’s both playful and sweet.

green cargo pant, loka. black blouse, paramix. fish scale shoes, rooster. necklace, hush & shout. striped blazer, out of the blue. orange shirt, moule. shoes, hush & shout. necklaces, hush & shout. hat, american apparel. boat shirt, out of the blue. shoes, hush & shout.

memorable perk was being noticed by Urban Behavior and Costa Blanca and doing a rather huge collaboration with them.

However, being in Sandbox magazine might just take the number one spot.

SB: So, why has your blog been so successful?

BS: It’s successful? Hah. Time and effort. I didn’t give up or get discouraged when I didn’t immediately receive tons of followers.

I just enjoyed it for what it was and didn’t focus on making it big in the fashion world.

SB: What makes Breanne tick?

BS: I’m obsessed with Harry Potter, I’m a bit of an introvert, and I’m addicted to Coca-Cola.

SB: Your mom takes your blog photos, right? Cute.

BS: Haha yes. She really is shaping up to be great at photography.

SANDBOX spring 2011

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our Featuring:

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toy story

Photography by KATY WINTERFLOOD Styled by CASEY DOWNES Nails by BRITTANY GRACE for Safire Hair & Esthetics

BARBIE GIRL LEFT BRaceletS, le cHateaU. RIGHT BRaceletS, alDO. RINGS, le cHateaU.

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UGLY BETTY NecKlace, le cHateaU. SQUaRe RING, HUSH & SHOUt. ROUND RING, alDO.

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MARIO’S BEST FRIEND GeM RING, alDO. INDIaN RING, HUSH & SHOUt. WIRe RING, HUSH & SHOUt. GOlD RING, alDO.

SANDBOX SPRING 2011

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SLAMMER! FeatHeR RING, alDO. PeacOcK RING, alDO. BRaceletS, alDO.

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PIN UP FeatHeR NecKlace, alDO. clOcK NecKlace, HUSH & SHOUt.

SANDBOX SPRING 2011

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beautiful man

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SANDBOX SPRING 2011

b a

be au jera wolfe beautiful man

SANDBOX SPRING 2011

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beautiful man

I

f you don’t think ballet will interest you, feast your eyes on this prize. At 6 feet tall and 180 pounds, this 20-year-old (unbelievable, right?), classicallytrained ballet dancer will have no trouble getting your attention.

Whether it’s his perfect form in ballet, sick break dancing moves, or his toned (that’s an understatement) physique, it’s hard to take your eyes off him. And we’re pretty sure the rest of Canada felt the same way, too, as they watched him compete in So You Think You Can Dance Canada last fall.

Speaking to us over Skype from Toronto, he shares what it was like being part of the on-camera competition, what it’s like being in a long-distance relationship., and that the secret to his six pack is really no secret at all (hint: he does very little and has a whole lot to show for it!)

a little while and be recognized in the streets, right?

JW: There’s this thing called ‘idol forums’ where people chat about shows like So You Think You Can Dance Canada and they chat about certain people.

I checked it out one time and there was some random guy saying, “I used to take classes with Jera and watch him change in the change room –– so amazing!” I didn’t know who this was, and it was just really weird. And then pictures from my Facebook were popping up on the site. My privacy went right out the window.

SB: Aww, he just wanted to feel close to you –– and we can’t blame him!

We sort of just assumed you were gay when we first saw you perform because you’re a ballet dancer. Do you get that a lot or are we just perpetuating an awful stereotype?

JW: It’s a perception that a lot of people have. When I was on the show, it was our last night and we were all partying and having a good time and some of my partners that were on the show were asking me if I was a “little gay”. I’m like, ‘What does that even mean? Am I a little gay?

I’m not gay!’

SB: Booo! But you do have a cutie girlfriend in Winnipeg, right? How has it been doing the DANcEr jErA wOlfE hAS All long distance thing?

JW: It’s been really hard, but ThE righT mOvES. at the same time it’s unbelievStory by JEFFREY VALLIS ably rewarding when we get Photography by RILEY STEWART to see each other. It makes it so much better almost. When SANDBOX: How did your family we were in Winnipeg together, we did and friends react when they found out everything together. We would even you were on the show? have dance parties, but it would just Jera Wolfe: It was hilarious because be me and her dancing around in her I had been texting all my friends and living room –– which is really [lame] didn’t know you had to keep everything now that I say it, but it was really fun, so hush hush in the competition. Then, you know? when I made it through, they got us all SB: Sounds sweet. Can we have this together and were basically like, “If dance? (Can’t blame us for trying!) So, you say anything about this competido you have a bad date experience? tion, we own your life.” After that point (Obviously not with your girlfriend, of I was like, ‘What competition?’ I was course.) scared to even lie about it.

JW: For me, when I take a girl out, SB: That must have been weird. But if she’s happy then that’s a great date it was probably cool to be famous for for me. But I went out with this one girl

STEP UP

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and she was just not happy the entire time and we couldn’t fight because it was this really fancy place, but the whole time she was pissed off. That was awful.

SB: That’s one of those situations where you take the food to go. Now, on to more important matters, how do you get so ripped?

JW: I don’t go to a gym and I don’t think I’ve ever done a sit-up, but I’ll do some push-ups every once in awhile. I break dance every once in a while and that’s definitely where my upper body strength comes from. It’s all the break dancing –– it gave me my arms.

SB: God bless the b-boys. But you’re a little bulkier than most ballet dancers, no?

JW: I guess proportionally I look too big, but I like it. I’m not a big guy, but you put me in a ballet class and, yeah, I guess I do look like a wrestler. I personally like the size I am, though.

SB: As do we, Jera. As do we.

beautiful man

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reviews

top fOur apps

by JASON KRAHN

NOT SO PrETTY PAST Ruth Brandon’s in-depth look at the beauty industry in Ugly Beauty takes the reader on a tailspin through the life of Helena Rubinstein and founder of L’Oréal, Eugene Schueller. The political side in the land of makeup has a suitcase full of colourful details, though it is hardly a chosen topic at most dinner parties.

Brandon’s tale focuses on a sneaky Rubinstein and how she built her business of “creams” on clever marketing decisions, drive, and the refusal to give up.

Her “pots of valaze” were sold at an obscenely large price which proved to have more appeal and selling power than cheaper priced items.

The story of Rubinstein, the first woman to be a self-made millionaire, holds up more appeal than Schueller’s story, who began as a man of science and perfected the first safe hair dye. His story has a more strict routine than Rubinstein’s, having only caught four hours of sleep every night of his life. Schueller breaks out to print media, makes smart investments, and eventually puts Rubinstein to bed. This is no surprise with the success that L’Oréal (originally “L’Auréal”) has had, monopolizing the hair colouring industry and dominating the beauty world by becoming a household name. Ugly Beauty is a must-read for beauty queens who have an interest in the beauty industry’s make-up.

SANDBOX rev iews

by VANESSA KUNDERMAN

JOrANE – Une sorcière comme les autres String instruments have never been so sexy. The gentle cadence of Jorane’s voice is soothing when paired with the cello and melancholic layers of her own harmonies. The album melts together, track after track, and the change in the chordophones is a nice break from predictable guitar strums found in most pop today. Each tune is plucked and bowed to perfection making a best song tricky to pin down. The title track cleverly plays with tempo and adds a touch of morbidity to the album.

SArA BArEILLES – Live from Soho Sara Bareilles isn’t going to write you a love song, but her “swear words” and witty banter in this live recording are enough to replace any romantic tune. Live from Soho covers tunes from Bareilles’ first and sophomore album. Notable tracks are “Hold my Heart” and “Breathe Again,” both demonstrating Bareilles’ unwavering vibrato and emotion-filled songwriting. Bareilles also provides intimate descriptions on the album about each song’s conception.

THE PrETTY rECKLESS – Light Me Up Look out Courtney Love. Powerhouse vocalist Taylor Momsen and her band The Pretty Reckless have created a new stomping ground for angry girl rock. Memorable lyrics from the track “Nothing Left to Lose” quickly burn into any listener’s memory: After Jesus and rock and roll/ couldn’t save my immoral soul well/ I’ve got nothing left, I’ve got nothing left to lose. With each track being just as catchy as the previous, the album easily tiptoes into pop-rock territory. The tracks are infectious, complete with haunting hooks.

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On January 22nd, 2011, the Apple App Store celebrated another milestone: 10 billion apps downloaded thus far. The only problem is, of those 10 billion apps, 9 of them were from me just trying to find the good ones. Here are four worth your bandwidth:

Alien Blue

is the only app I use. An aggregator for the popular user-driven news source Reddit, Alien Blue delights with frequent updates and enough video, pics, and news to cure any bout of boredom.

There is something for all in this free app.

8mm Vintage Camera

makes the cut for coolest video filter app by far. Retro-it-up with different filters, sounds and film jitters for maximum effectiveness for that silent film you’ve always wanted to make. What’s that? You never wanted to make a silent film? You will. $1.99

Emoji allows

you to finally add emoticons to your text messages and any other text program off the iPhone. You can finally annoy family and friends with pictures of how you feel with this free app.

Don’t pay iTunes for those expensive ringtones, make your own!

Ringtone Maker finally allows the

iPhone user to make his or her own ringtones from within their iPod library. Best of all, it’s free!

the scoop

Story by Suzy BodirogA Photography by BrittAny AlySe Hair by CHelSeA MArinelli Makeup by lidiJA nAJerA

ECO CHIC “I decided to quit my job to pursue my dream. Please send love and support, I am sort of freaking out!”

These are the words that Alesha Frederickson posted to her Facebook profile when she courageously announced to the world that she was ready to throw in the white button-up, serve her last bowl of five-cheese ziti, and seriously pursue her dream of being a clothing designer.

After finishing a year long, intensive program at renowned design school Blanche Macdonald in 2009, Frederickson moved home with hopes of developing her own line. She ended up with a waitressing job to pay the bills.

This past winter, however, the small town girl went out on a whim and applied as a contestant in The University of Winnipeg Student’s Association “Green Piece: Good Fashion

THE uWSA’S GrEEN-PIECE WINNEr ALESHA frEDErICKSON SHArES THE SECrETS Of HEr CrAfTY DESIGN

for a Change” design contest and show. The idea was for participants to create an original garment out of completely re-used materials.

Impressing the panel of judges with her cleverly-designed and skillfully-crafted masterpiece, Frederickson took home the win. For the girl that believes “everything happens for a reason,” it was her cue to take that leap of faith.

SANDBOX: Based on your Facebook status, it sounds like you’re ready to take the plunge. How did it all happen?

Alesha Frederickson: I went into work one day and it was just one of those days when you have the last straw, and I thought, ‘you know what? I don’t need this place.’

SB: Well, spring is the time for change, right? How did your family react?

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the scoop AF: My mom and dad are really supportive, I’m really lucky. When I quit my job I was crying, thinking ‘my mom’s going to kill me!’ But she was like, ‘it’s the perfect time to try and no matter what, it’s going to be good. It’s going to be OK.’ SB: We couldn’t agree more. So what will your focus be?

AF: Overall, my vision or goal would be to make wearable clothes for people — fun clothes that anyone can wear — anybody, any size, any person. I don’t necessarily want to be making gowns, but fun clothes.

SB: It seems your winning design was just that — wearable and fun. So how did you come up with the idea for that poncho-esque jacket? Can I call it a poncho?

AF: (laughs) Yeah, I call it a poncho, too. I’m really into oversized, comfy things. I was thinking ‘if I just wear it with jeans, what could I wear it with to make it instantly like, what is she wearing? That’s cool.’ I was more inspired by the leather fringe and the colour palette: brown and 70s style.

SB: What about the quilted gold dress underneath?

AF: It was an afterthought. I put it on her and made the skirt more full. I wanted to use that quilting fabric because it had a good texture. It was my friend’s old quilt. I wanted to make something that didn’t

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necessarily go with the poncho, but kind of made a weird mix.

SB: It really was beautiful. What about the dog collar belt?

AF: I actually don’t have a dog. I really like collecting shiny things. I went to a thrift store and bought a big bucket of zippers for $8. I don’t think they realized how great of a deal that was. The day I was finishing up the dress I was looking for a zipper, and I found the dog leash and dog collar and thought, ‘OK, this could be way cooler than a zipper.”

SB: Where is it all now? Where can we get our hands on one of those ponchos?

AF: I’ve been wearing it (laughs). I thought I was going to give it away, but I don’t really want to. I was thinking about making some more.

SB: We’ll be keeping a watchful eye. So what’s the plan from here?

AF: I’m working on my clothing line called March and August. My birth month is March and my little sister’s birthday is in August. We are the most opposite people you could ever meet, yet we get along really well; we’re best friends. That’s kind of what I want to represent—opposites.

column

memoirs of a wannabe di va

by MAYIM GOLDMAN

PHOTOS BY BRITTANY DONA-LYN HAIR BY ROGER MEDINA MAKEUP BY RICHEL KORPESHO

W

ith the biggest lashes on my eyes and brows so bold Brooke Shields herself would seethe with envy, my life was about to take a turn for the glamorous.

I was about to walk into Winnipeg’s newest gay club, Fame, mount the stripper pole, and make my debut as the baddest go-go dancer to ever live.

I know! I know! I was becoming the young Madonna who had stints in nightclubs around fashionable SoHo. Well… something like that anyway.

Upon entering the dressing room, I was greeted by bare walls and sticky cans of half-used TRESemmé. Oh, the life of a diva.

I began to remove my faux-lynx coat but halted at an obnoxious bellowing of “you, in the fur!” Behind me stood a tall, slender drag queen

with an impressive black weave.

“You should know that this is merely your audition and with an outfit like that, well honey, you’re going to blend right in with everyone else…”

My eyes fell to the floor, defeated, and I remained silent as she dashed around me and out the door, taking my confidence with her.

Later, as I stood in the cage, about to live the moment I had imagined time and again while falling asleep, I spotted the queen of mean staring back at me.

I devoted a moment to the study of her face and recognized, within her eyes, the teacher who insisted my 13-year-old self would never finish school. In the depth of those pupils I saw the mother who evicted her

son after a courageous declaration of homosexuality, a husband unwilling to support the career aspirations of his wife.

Then, all at once the vocals of Kylie Minogue’s “Get Outta My Way” soared through the speakers.

The lyrics ran deep and I closed my eyes. As my head leaned back, my thoughts about holding on to what others think, were swept up, away and forever changed.

I swear it was then that I was set free.

As for others, as for their thoughts, never may they make us inferior without our consent. The strength to select where we want to go, who we wannabe, it lies within our very nature. Watch as those who try to stop us get outta our way.

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COME AWAY WITH ME corset, Paswera Kimono, songs for alice.

SOUL QUEEN Between workshops, gigs, cocktail lounges, greenhouses, the hospital and studio, Vanessa Kunderman learns the medley of the multi-tasking, multi-talented, Flo.

Photography by BRITTANY ALYSE Hair by ROGER MEDINA for Berns & Black Makeup

by DANIELA BUTCURA Styled by CASEY DOWNES Illustrations by VICTOR PLATON

S

ome little girls are born knowing they’re meant for the burning lights, screaming fans and the big stage. Florence Oramasionwu was not one of them.

When I prodded her to look back, she confessed it was possible that the now all-consuming desire was buried behind her more pragmatic side; a side that her parents would have been proud of.

Only in her twenties, Flo has already released a debut album, earned her degree in medicine, and experimented with the cello. All the while running from workshop to workshop in between gigs, while juggling a full time job at the Health Sciences Centre.

SOulful In SnEAkErS I joined Flo on a casual Wednesday night at Shannon’s Irish Pub, where she was performing in an open jam session.

Having only spoken to her over the phone a handful of times, her powerful and infectious spirit made me envision the Queen of Soul herself, Miss Aretha Franklin. So naturally I was taken aback as the petite, sneaker-wearing songstress bounded onto the inconspicuous stage – no more than five feet tall.

Backed by one guitarist, her performance had a surprisingly intimate vibration about it. She melted through tune after tune, mixing in some indie covers with her own original songs.

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SWEPT AWAY dress, Lune Vintage. hairpiece, rings, earrings and braceLet, Vintage bLing. shoes, caLVin KLein for town shoes.

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Suddenly, she reminded me of a young Lauryn Hill in her Fugees days; her voice emblazoned with vibrato and understated tempo changes. On the stage, she became unmistakably lost in her own vocals, her mind quiet and blissful.

“People don’t realize how vast and powerful our minds are,” she says. “Something inside me is telling me, ‘I’ll make my dreams happen. This dream is alive – it’s bigger than me.’

That burning intense flame of desire just can’t be quenched.”

HuMIlITY AnD ArT She arrives fresh-faced and radiant to our late night dinner, clad in a black beatnik inspired sweater and gold earrings. She orders a light salad but agrees to share crantinis and bruschetta after some coaxing.

“You know what? I didn’t think I was going to eat at the banquet I was at before this but they fed me and I’m still stuffed. I can’t say no to a girly drink, though.”

We dive into a conversation about the elaborate lifestyles some artists fall victim to; entourages demanding goldflecked face lotion, celebrities who fly in makeup artists to paint faces every morning of the week.

“As much as I’m allergic to ego, someday, God willing, smack me the frick down if I get there,” she jokes. “I love humility. That’s a real artist. I realize I’m still in the premie/infantile stages, but it can catapult in 24 hours.

I’m inching. I’m not where I intend to be, but I’m inching.

My Mount Everest is the Grammy’s.”

She recalls watching a memorable performance with Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men between cocktails.

“For me the real test is live. I saw Adele on Ellen and she just gave me goose bumps. She doesn’t need the distractions of backup dancers. She’s a real artist.”

I note the images of backup dancers that are splashed across Flo’s website from snapshots of her earlier performances. It’s clear that by her experience, no matter how insignificant she thinks it to be, she has grown as an artist and is probably living in that humility she so fondly speaks of.

“I want this new album to depict and portray Flo,” she explains. “I want it to demonstrate how I’ve grown and show the knowledge base I didn’t have on the first album. I’m happy with the first album, but I’ve learned from my fan base that it had a more contemporary jazzy sound – not completely me. I want a more R&B soul, pop influence. I want it to scream Flo.” Flo propels herself in a never-ending series of workshops, from information on different aspects of marketing, to grant writing, to discussions on social networking. The self-described “workshop junkie” even has a workshop scheduled on the morning of the SANDBOX photo shoot,

one she graciously agrees to excuse herself early from.

“I completely understand why [artists] have marketing teams. I just want to be a more DIY artist.”

She has seen her share of concerts but likes to think of the shows she has seen as her own university classes. She is enraptured with discovering what the magic is behind each performer she sees. Only after witnessing the entire production of a musical show can she determine whether or not the singer or band is the real deal.

She launches into a discussion about the weak and magnificent shows she has seen, only momentarily disagreeing with me over Britney and Lady Gaga. We settle on the idea that she can appreciate a good performance, but it all comes down to whether or not the person can actually sing.

F

An ASPIrIng APPETITE lo had always enjoyed singing but was never sure if she possessed the talent to take the world of music seriously as a career. Her family was always supportive of her, but her own perfectionist tendencies were blinding.

She knew that once she expressed her dreams to pursue a path with no guarantees, her parents would worry. After all, her vision was intangible and invisible.

Her love for her parents was so great, that the thought of disappointing them was enough to lock her aspirations in a tomb forever.

“I didn’t think there was anything special about my voice. You know, in my family it was hoped that you would do something respectful – become a doctor, become a lawyer, a dentist – go to school. It was bred in me from my parents. My siblings and I were raised to be hardworking,” she explains.

“But you know, I went to school, I did the degree thing but nothing seemed right; nothing fit. I had, well I have a good career and it’s really rewarding but I’m not all that passionate about it. I told myself I had to stop lying to myself. This is who I am. I needed to explore my desires so I could be at peace knowing I tried.”

Once she gave in to her deepest yearning, she explains it was a sort of butterfly effect. She was introduced to the right people, took voice lessons – a goal she had always wanted to cross off her bucket list. Subsequent to following her heart, it seemed the universe was falling into place.

“I believe everyone crosses paths for a reason. I worked with Ora Walker, my first vocal trainer, and she provided me with the confidence I had been lacking. Shortly after I had my first magical recording experience. Man, I love recording.”

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In THE THICk Of IT jumPer, lune Vintage. necKlace and ring, Vintage bling. belt, aquarius. shoes, steVe madden for town shoes.

songbird Dress, The VelVeT Vixen. earrings anD ring, VinTage Bling. snake ring anD cuff, Bijou. shoes, sam eDelman for Town shoes.

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BuTTErflY kISSES dress, lune Vintage. ring, necKlace and bracelet, Vintage bling. shoes, miz mooz for town shoes.

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twiggy Dress, LiLi Lavak rings,Bijou. earings, vintage BLing.

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A divA is born On Sunday morning I’m greeted at the salon by a bouncy woman eager to commence the day’s extensive itinerary.

Flo now seems more youthful since our intimate conversation in the confines of our private restaurant booth just days earlier.

She immediately takes to hair stylist, Roger Medina, and the two float through polite chitchat before engrossing one another in the difficulties of “black” hair. Her jaw nearly unhinges when Roger presents her with the two-tone mound of hair she will be wearing for the day.

“My God, Flo. Look at that, hey?”

Roger beams, proudly primping his masterpiece. “Diana Ross, eat your heart out!”

He flicks and flips the curly mass and a giddy Flo eats it up. She slinks off into makeup, but not before stuffing her hands into the lion’s mane that frames her face.

“I can’t get over this. This is better than a day at Ten Spa.” About eight hours into Flo’s photo shoot, the spa feeling would have worn off on most, but like the happy trooper that she is, Flo kept her smile beaming right until the eleventh hour. She was even extra grateful for a slice of pizza and a Coca-Cola; never once forgetting to flow through a slew of thank yous.

As she took me through the hectic whirlwind she knows as life, not a single complaint found her lips. Her tenderness and positive outlook are not only endearing, they are truly refreshing. Her bright spirit and talent infect everyone around her and it’s no wonder she wants to release these qualities through her music.

“I just know I’m lucky, you know,” she said between mouthfuls.

“I believe everything is a gift and that we need to be thankful for everything we’re given. I know I have a lot, and I’m grateful. It’s just how I was raised — that’s just who I am.”

PHOTO BY SAM MACFARLANE

riGHT Flo perForming at Central park. below Flo perForming at Her DeBUt alBUm releaSe partY.

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SANDBOX MAGAZINE NOW AVAILABLE IN CHAPTERS, INDIGO AND COLES STORES IN ALBERTA, SASKATCHEWAN, MANITOBA AND TORONTO. ALSO AVAILABLE AT MCNALLY ROBINSON, BERNS & BLACK AND MORE!

TOEARTH

DOWN

Photography by PINK ELEPHANT PHOTOGRAPHY Styled by CHANELLE SALNIKOWSKI Hair by HALEY GOLIN and GUY LEMIEUX for Berns & Black Makeup by JESSICA KMIEC and CAMERON BROWN

WE COME IN FASHION Jacqueline’s (leFT) Blazer, zara. Polo, Fred Perry, unFold aPParel. PanTs, cheaP Monday, connecT Four. shoes, sPring.

Bag, Mad aBouT sTyle. KrysTal’s PanTs, BcBgeneraTion, The Bay. shirT, BcBgeneraTion, The Bay. haT, Moulé. shoes, sPring.

Blazer, hush & shouT. TaJanna’s shirT, The Bay. PanTs, hush & shouT. shoes, sPring. BraceleT, hush & shouT.

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wAlk tHIS wAy Krystal’s shoes, town shoes. shorts, BillaBonG, oCtoBer. jaCKet, jessiCa siMPson, the Bay. shirt, hurley, hush & shout.

BaG, town shoes. Belt, hush & shout.

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I lIkE tO MOVE It, MOVE It jaCqueline’s shirt, oCtoBer. sKirt, hush & shout. shoes, sPrinG. hat, oCtoBer. neCKlaCe, Betsey johnson. tajanna’s Pants, Moulé. tanK, BillaBonG, oCtoBer. red BaG, town shoes. shoes, town shoes

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GEt INtO tHE GROOVE Krystal’s shirt, Guess, the Bay. sKirt, Vera Moda, the Bay. shoes, sPrinG. yellow BaG, town shoes.

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IMpRESSIONIStS Krystal’s jaCKet, GaP. shirt, oCtoBer. sKirt, aMeriCan aPParel. shoes, sPrinG. BaG, town shoes. tajanna’s Blazer, Vero Moda, the Bay. juMPsuit, Mad aBout style. shoes, sPrinG. BraCelet, the Bay.

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E2E end to end

Photography by DENISE MCMULLIN Styled by DANIEL GUREVICH Hair by APRIL HARTLE and CHOUNG TRAN for Safire Hair & Esthetics Makeup by JESSICA KMIEC

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MEAN STREAK ZaNeRobe Jacket aNd PeNGuIN SweateR, IFuku. cheaP MoNday JeaNS, coNNect FouR. Necklace by PyRah, SIlveR lotuS. Pocket kNIFe Necklace by taRa davIS, Ruby & PeaRl.

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TAG BANGER daNIel weaRS JeaNS by Naked & FaMouS, coNNect FouR. ShIRt aNd caRdIGaN, club MoNaco. PlaId tIe aNd hat, habeRdaSheRy. caMPeR ShoeS, cha cha Palace. belt by tIGeR oF SwedeN.

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PAINT-EATERS kale weaRS Jacket aNd tIe, club MoNaco. vINtaGe buRbeRRy tReNch coat, value vIllaGe. ShIRt, huGo boSS. PeNGuIN PaNtS, coNNect FouR. Pocket SquaRe, haRRy RoSeN. huNteR bootS, towN ShoeS, belt by tIGeR oF SwedeN. daNIel weaRS PaNtS, club MoNaco. ShIRt, J cRew. SuSPeNdeRS, FoReveR 21. Flu voG ShoeS, cha cha Palace.

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WILDSTYLE WARDROBE GRaNt weaRS Jacket aNd PaNtS, Moule. ScaRF aNd hat, habeRdaSheRy. heNley, IFuku. FRy bootS, cha cha Palace.

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KREW CUT kale (leFt) weaRS ShIRt, club MoNaco. 7 JeaNS, IFuku. hat, habeRdaSheRy. Pocket SquaRe, haRRy RoSeN. doc MaRteNS bootS, cha cha Palace. bRacelet, Ruby & PeaRl.

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ALL CITY BOYS GRaNt (RIGht) weaRS keNNeth cole ReactIoN blaZeR, the bay. beN SheRMaN ShIRt, Moule. FRed PeRRy SweateR, IFuku. PaNtS, Moule.

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WOMAN OF THE HOUR DReSS by bRI FoSteR. Jacket, club MoNaco. SIlveR baNGle, MoDel’S owN. GlaSSeS, FoR eyeS. black DoctoR baG, towN ShoeS. NuDe PateNt FlatS, SaM eDelMaN, the bay.

brain power Photography by IZABELA RACHWAL Styled by BRI FOSTER Hair by HANNA LITTLE for Angles Salon Makeup by CHERRY VICENTE

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GO—GETTER cable kNIt SweateR, aMeRIcaN aPPaRel. blouSe, vINtaGe. khakI ShoRtS, RalPh lauReN, the bay. black kNee SockS, StylISt’S owN. ShoeS, StuaRt weItzMeN, bRowNS. cReMe clutch, towN ShoeS. RaccooN taIl, vINtaGe.

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GIRL ON TOP blouSe, MoulÉ.

GolD lINk Necklace, StylISt’S owN. PleateD SkIRt, bRI FoSteR. PuRSe, MaRc by MaRc JacobS.GlaSSeS, FoR eyeS. beIGe kNee SockS, aMeRIcaN aPPaRel. toRtISe watch, MoulÉ.

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FIRST IN LINE blouSe, out oF the blue. buttoN waISt PeNcIl SkIRt, JaeGaR, vINtaGe. PeaRl Necklace, octobeR. black tote baG, DkNy, bRowNS.

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MAIDEN ON A MISSION caMel toP, aMeRIcaN aPPaRel. belt, GuccI, vINtaGe. holt ReNFRew hat, vINtaGe. khakI tRouSeRS, coNveRSe, MoulÉ. black watch, aMeRIcaN aPPaRel.

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how to

F

ashionable favourites, Raezavel Argulla and Andrew Chipman show us how it’s done yet again, this time in the form of an at home, do-it-yourself project.

Andrew puts together a two-tone button down, while Raezavel goes Dorothy with her sparkly Wizard of Oz inspired pumps.

Sparkle pumpS You will need:

A pair of pumps Sand paper or nail file (optional if shoes are patent) Mod Podge classic or satin finish Fine or extra-fine glitter in colour(s) of choice A bowl or tray but small closable plastic container is also recommended A short-haired, stiff paint brush

how to

D IY

Story by RAEZAVEL ARGULLA and ANDREW CHIPMAN Photography by DENNIS SAPONG for Kilché Studios

Raezavel Argulla is the 17-year-old fashionista behind cheapthrillsss.com, a blog she started in 2008. She enjoys thrifting and fantasizing about her career as a fashion photographer. Her style is a mix of everything — science fiction novels, Vogue Paris and Twiggy inspire her. Raezavel’s “style guide” is currently featured at hm.com.

Andrew Chipman began blogging in 2008 and his website pullteeth.net has quickly become a fashion blog mainstay. The 20-year-old is most well known for his do-it-yourself (DIY) projects which recreate designer pieces or interesting foreign looks. Andrew had also had his “style guide” was featured on the H&M website.

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ONe Clean your shoes. Wipe them free of dirt and clean the soles too, to make them easier to work with.

TWO If your shoes are patent leather, file down the surface so that the glue has something to stick to.

THree In your container, pour the glitter first, then gradually add the Mod Podge and mix. It’s easier to control the consistency if you add the glue to the glitter than the other way around.

how to TWO-TONE SHIRT You will need:

Two shirts of your choice. Make sure they are similar in weight and fabric as well as size.

Measure the sleeves around the arm hole. You want the sleeves to match up as closely as you can, This will really help when placing the sleeves on.

Sharp scissors Pins Sewing machine Basic to Intermediate sewing abilities

FOUR Once you reach the desired consistency (more glitter than glue, yet not clumpy) paint your shoes.

Your first coat should be painted on so it is opaque, yet not too thickly.

Wait for it to dry to slightly clear (1-2 hrs) before painting a thicker second coat, adding more of the mixture to patchier areas. Let dry for at least 24 hours. If the glitter is still not as opaque as you like it, add more glitter to your mixture before retouching patchy areas again. Keep in mind that it will take a few coats and retouches to get the effect you want--mine took about four.

ONE Start by deciding which shirt you’d like as the sleeves and which you’d like as the body of your shirt.

Once you’ve chosen, start cutting the shirt that will be used for the sleeves.

Cut within 1.5 cm of the armhole seam leaving enough allowance to line up later.

TWO Cut both sleeves. Make it clear which sleeve is left and which is right. I did so by marking the right sleeve with a pin.

THREE Now you’ll be cutting the sleeves off your body shirt. As you did with the first shirt, leave 1.5 cm past the shoulder seam. This time you will be cutting into the sleeve, not the body.

You will use the armhole seams later to line them up perfectly.

FOUR Start pinning. This step can be the most frustrating, but it really helps if you take the time to do it well. Match up your shoulder seams first, followed by the side seam of your shirt to the seam of your sleeve.

(Warning: all shirts may be different.

Mine happened to fit perfectly; yours may not.) The idea here is to distribute any of the extra ease you have in either your sleeve or your shirt. This step is crucial so your shirt won’t bunch when sewing.

FIVE You can start sewing once your sleeve is completely pinned.

I chose to follow the original seam line with the side of my pressure foot on my sewing machine. This helps to ensure you have a straight seam, as well as making sure none of the shirt’s original seams are visible when completed. Start sewing at the side seam of the shirt/bottom seam of the sleeve.

SIX Sew in a complete circle until you reach your original starting point. You’re done your first sleeve!

Repeat for the second sleeve.

SEVEN Cut excess fabric from inside sleeve to remove bulk. Leave at least 1 cm from the seam.

EIGHT There you have it! Your very own two-tone dress shirt.

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life story

it’s my birthday. you can’t let him fucking die on my birthday.

Story by JESSICA EYSSENS As told to KRISTY RYDZ It’s a sentence I never imagined saying – much less to a doctor about my 13-year-old son as he was about to go into surgery to try and save his life.

I had taken Andrew in for blood work earlier that day and the clinic told us we didn’t need to come in the next day for a transfusion. That night though, while at home, Andrew looked at me and said, “I’m dying.”

I initially brushed it off as the kind of thing he would say whenever he needed a blood transfusion over the last four years, since he usually felt weak and tired.

That was his illness. The rare form of cancer called

severe aplastic anemia meant his body couldn’t create enough new blood cells and made him dependent on transfusions in order to function. Otherwise, he could develop active bleeds that wouldn’t stop clotting.

He was affectionately known to my husband, Chad, my daughter, Alex, and me as our “king of bloody noses.”

When he insisted that night that he was dying, I promised to take him for a transfusion in the morning and tucked him into bed.

The next morning we jumped in the car and got him to the hospital as he was complaining of a headache and was throwing up. The medical team did a head scan that revealed Andrew had an active bleed in his brain.

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life story Everything got blurry.

Things were moving so fast yet in slow motion, all at the same time. I didn’t understand what was happening. The nurse told me to call Chad and ask him to get there as soon as he could. They had never told us that before. What did this mean?

How serious was it?

Despite transfusions, surgery and morphine, they couldn’t stop the bleeding in my son’s brain that day and he quickly slipped into a coma. After a week of progress, he developed another bleed.

Two weeks after my birthday, on October 30, 2007, we were told there was nothing that medicine could do for Andrew. If he survived after the machines keeping him alive were shut off, he would be in a vegetative state for the rest of his life due to the damage from the bleed.

So my husband and I made the heartbreaking decision to turn off the machines.

And Andrew was gone.

what we should be doing.

I vividly remember overhearing one woman at Andrew’s funeral muttering, “They’re not even crying.”

I wanted to go over and punch her in the face. How could she even fathom how I was feeling? How dare she even utter those words. The funeral was about Andrew, not about me.

Besides, I had no more tears left.

“

My existence, and our family, revolved around his illness.

In a fog.

I expected to get some sort of warning.

I was supposed to have two months, four months, six months, if I was lucky, to get used to the idea of losing him. Instead, I was robbed.

When you look up the definition of bereaved that’s what it means – I had been deprived, plundered.

My hockey-loving, golf-playing, Justin Bieber-esque Andrew was taken from me at the tender age of 13 years old.

It had taken two long years of tests and suffering before doctors could even diagnose him with the rapidly-progressing disease. The following two years were full of blood clinic appointments, a bone marrow transplant, 3 a.m. nights in hospitals and watching my once active, growing young man deteriorate while taking up to 23 pills a day.

My existence, and our family, revolved around his illness.

I moved through the next few days in a kind of fog. Nothing felt real. Chad and I made decisions about Andrew’s funeral and cremation, mostly based on what felt right in the moment. How do you know what’s right when you never expected to have to bury your child?

Family and friends buzzed around, many telling us how we should be feeling and

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His absence is like the sky.

After the funeral, our newly-formed family of three couldn’t bear to be apart, physically or emotionally. We’d always been a close-knit unit, but for months, we all just curled up on the couch and watched TV together, afraid to let one another go.

Internally I went through every phase, from anger to profound sadness to regret. I became obsessed with the idea of the 2012 apocalypse for a period because all I wanted was to be with Andrew again. All the while eating so frequently that I had gained 45 pounds.

However in January — just over two months after losing Andrew — with looming credit card bills from funeral costs, I knew I had to go back to work.

I was drawn back to my former job as a graphic designer but was inspired to do

more to help people and make a mark in the world after suffering such a devastating loss.

I’m trying to help others deal with loss by starting the Andrew Eyssens Foundation to support those suffering from aplastic anemia, as well as their siblings.

I often find comfort in the words of others like C.S. Lewis who after losing his wife wrote, “Her absence is like the sky. It’s everywhere.”

THE AuTHOr wITH HEr fAmIly DurINg ANDrEw’S TrEATmENTS.

Little things like songs on the radio, or a child that looks like what Andrew may have looked like now at age 17, are always around me. For the first year after he died, the street light outside our house would turn on and off every time we pulled up.

Even now, every time I take a photo of my daughter, there’s always an orb somewhere beside her.

I feel his presence in my life, even now.

Can’t stop living.

I move through the loss every day, whether it’s one of Andrew’s birthdays or anniversaries or just an average day. It doesn’t get easier, it’s just different.

I tend to worry less about the menial aspects of everyday life like when something breaks down, or when someone makes a snide comment; because I truy have learned that life is precious.

Our trio has drifted away from some family members and friends as I’d rather not have people in our lives that aren’t

genuine or couldn’t be there to support us when we needed them most.

People often say to me that they wouldn’t have my strength to deal with the loss I’ve suffered and that they couldn’t do it. But they could, because they would have to.

It’s a journey. People suffer this loss every day. I wasn’t the first and I won’t be the last. You just do it because you can’t stop living. You have to keep moving through life.

the scoop

“

A lot of my friends have opened up shops near by. It’s like we all grew up down here and now we’re back here being grown-ups.

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the scoop

Full of Gusto

ScOtt BAgShAw tURNED PUBLIc hUMILIAtION INtO AN ENVIOUS NEw cAREER Just one year ago, Scott Bagshaw was terminated from his position as head chef at Pizzeria Gusto in a controversial move that made local and international headlines.

Today, he owns the trendy new eatery Deseo Bistro, a Latin inspired restaurant in the Exchange District, and is in talks to star in his own show on the Food Network. Sipping on a beer, Bagshaw reflects on the journey that led him to the place he describes as “home.”

“It’s neat to be back here again,” says the punk musicloving chef, who spent much of his teenage years stage diving in the Albert Hotel’s adjoining

distaste for the teaching profession and returned to the comforts of a kitchen.

In a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, under the caring wing of a soup master, Bagshaw’s talent for food came to fruition.

“His name was Mr. Wong and he couldn’t speak a word of English. He would just call me ‘idiot’ and smack me with his ladle,” Bagshaw recalls fondly of the man who he credits for much of his Asian-influenced expertise.

The two became friends and together, their restaurant received acclaim in the Sydney Morning Herald and the Australian Good Food Guide.

But after three years as a highprofile chef Story by maeghan heinrichs in Australia, Photography by lisa varga his visa venue. “It’s almost like full circle. expired and he headed back A lot of my friends have opened to Winnipeg, where he started up shops near by. It’s like we all once again at the bottom of the grew up down here and now ranks. we’re back here being grown “I was going from living on ups.” the beach, a dream job, and Bagshaw’s culinary experience a girlfriend, to living in my began while working part-time friend’s basement in Winnipeg, in an array of local restaurants turning potatoes and carrots while completing a double as a prep cook at Amici,” says major in sociology and preBagshaw. law from The University of But a strong work ethic Winnipeg. Those who have coupled with a desire to be had the pleasure of indulging back on top helped him quickly in Bagshaw’s culinary creations climb the ranks. might be surprised to know that “I would show up an hour he doesn’t have a stitch of formal early and start working, culinary training. but punched in when I was After completing his degree, supposed to start. That’s when Bagshaw moved to Australia I really began to want to learn where he taught for six months. more about food and started But he quickly realized his to love food. It wasn’t just a

scott bagshaw

job anymore, it was more of a career, it was what I actually liked doing. When I got back here I had to start at the bottom but there was this desire to get back to where I was.”

He achieved his goal with a head chef position, first at Sydney’s at The Forks, then at Pizzeria Gusto.

Gusto was wildly successful with the help of Bagshaw’s tantalizing Italian creations.

But after revealing details of his personal life in a published interview for The Last Crumb

by Rheanne Marcoux, a book revealing the personalities behind popular eateries, Bagshaw was terminated.

His comments were deemed inappropriate.

“It’s really the best thing that could have ever happened,” Bagshaw explains. “No hard feelings. What’s done is done.

I’m moving on, they’re moving on, and I’ve got my own place now, so that’s great.”

Bagshaw endured public scrutiny through media coverage and online comments, but the silver lining came in future business partner, Alejandro Moro, who he met through a mutual friend.

Bagshaw began assisting Moro with his catering business and one night over a couple of beers, the two began to chat about their ambitions.

“A week or two later, [Moro] told me the Albert space was open and I was like, ‘and?’” laughs Bagshaw. “He said just come down and take a look. I was like ‘dude I’ve been to the Albert many times –– no.”

But by the time he reluctantly joined Moro to view the vacant space, he was singing a different tune.

“We just decided we can either keep working at jobs that we don’t want to work at, or we can do something that we believe in and what we really want to do and love. So we just thought, ‘let’s get it done.’”

Shortly after the opening, Bagshaw received a phone call from a producer at Pixcom Productions in Montreal, inquiring if anyone had approached him about creating a show.

“I just laughed and laughed.

I thought it was some big joke,” he remembers.

He’s since signed a contract that could lead to an eightepisode cooking show, an endeavor he would take on while running Deseo.

“Who knows if it will work out or if it won’t, but if it happens, I’ll take a sabbatical and we’ll make it happen.”

A possible lucrative television project aside, Bagshaw’s life has indeed come full circle. And while he may not be back living on the beach, he is once again right where he belongs.

“A lot of people have said that ‘yeah, the food you were making at Gusto was great, but the environment just didn’t seem 100 per cent like you.’

This [however] is like...”

He stops to think as he looks around the restaurant.

“I’m home.”

To view Deseo’s online menu and for restaurant hours visit www.deseobistro.com SANDBOX SPRING 2011

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SenSi, and The five SenSeS Smell: The Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir from the Okanagan practically jumped out of the glass at me. Described as having flavours of black cherry, mineral and spice, it is fresh and light and full of flavour. It is one of the three Canadian choices I have as part of my “From Far and Wide” wine flight. Along with many wines by the glass or bottle, Sensi offers several different flights, which explore different tastes in three, three ounce glasses.

Touch: The booths, which run against the walls, are as comfortable and cushy as the focaccia bread (Oh, I’ll get to that...)

The silky throw pillows, in red, white and grey, are scattered throughout the room. The white patent leather scoop chairs are also very inviting.

SighT: A wonderful Exchange District glow floats through the large character windows. Complementing the funky fixtures is the warmth of tea lights, scattered on every table. Who doesn’t love great lighting? hearing: The ambiance in Sensi is partly thanks to the great house music. The music makes you feel sexy and chill, without making you fall asleep or overpowering the room.

TaSTe: You know those people that say they would choose food over sex? This must be what they mean. With the small plate’s menu, the Italian version of tapas, you could order the whole menu for $60...something I was tempted to do.

Each choice is made with delicious, fresh ingredients and prepared with the expert touch of Chef Giacomo Appice.

Must-try’s include the meatballs, crostini with parma proscuitto, fig jam and Gorgonzola, and the roasted beets and pistachios with a gorgonzola cream.

Mop it all up with the focaccia. At $2.50 per plate, you can order to your heart’s content.

meal ticket

“This place has [an] effect on you, that you just want to stay here and drink wine,” says John Smook, owner of Sensi Wine Lounge.

That much is obvious. With my wine in hand and menu open, I know I’m here to stay for a while. An easy task when the over one hundred-yearold building at 173 McDermot Ave. has such an inviting aura about it.

Sensi, which means senses in Italian, definitely does the job at appealing to all of them.

Opened in October 2010 by long time Tre Visi Restaurant owners, Sensi Wine Lounge has been creating some serious buzz. It has received rave reviews on local blogs, as well as stellar write-ups from well-respected Winnipeg foodies.

“It’s been nice,” says Smook. “We’ve really been getting a lot of business just

These guys are good.

With a small plate menu boasting fresh, high-quality ingredients, all under five dollars, you can order like a high roller and get half the bill you’d expect at the end of the night.

“We want our clients to have the full experience, but have it be affordable enough that they can come back regularly.”

Sensi’s wine cellar, which is built into the lounge and can hold up to 1600 bottles, contains wines of every price range. With wines ranging from $7 to $20 by the glass, and bottles from $28 to $300, there’s something to suit any wine drinker’s budget.

“We’re always updating and changing the wine list based on what our customers are asking for,” says Smook. And that was something I took note of, as I noticed the Layer

pass the vino The neW Wine Bar in The eXchange diSTricT TicKleS all The SenSeS

Story by ANDREA COLLINS Photography by LISA VARGA through word of mouth. A lot of our Tre Visi regulars were eager to check it out at first and then others just started coming.”

The lounge is comfortable, but still cool. The crisp, white table tops and patent white leather chairs are complemented by burgundy walls, red and grey booths, and lusciouslyscattered throw pillows.

“We decorated the room to reflect the wine we serve. We also chose the music to go with the space. People were really looking for an intimate lounge and we wanted to give it to them.”

Cake Zinfandel, a wine a friend had raved about recently, that I had never actually seen. But there it was, amongst many of my other new, and I’m sure, soon-to-be favourites.

With a menu boasting some of the best Italian ingredients and a wine list offering so many varieties by the glass, Sensi really has it all. The great lounge music and rich décor, matched with the dim lighting and glow from the Exchange District, makes Sensi the perfect place for a date, or night out with friends.

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fashion finder Fashion FashionFinder Finder Where Whereto tofind findall allthe thespring springstyles stylesused usedininthis thisissue. issue. aldo shoes (polo park)

BroWns shoes (brownsshoes.com)

loka (B-542 academy rd)

american apparel (108 osborne st)

cha cha palace (173 lilac st)

lune vintage (567 Broadway ave)

angles salon (241 lilac st)

cinzia (cinziadesigns.com)

mad aBout style (538 academy rd)

cluB monaco (clubmonaco.com)

mitchell faBrics (637 main st)

connect four (233 mcdermot ave)

moulÉ (443 academy rd)

for eyes optical (2090 corydon ave) forever 21 (forever21.com) freshair (542a academy rd) gags unlimited (209 osborne st) haBerdashery (84 albert st)

102

harry rosen (harryrosen.com)

octoBer (356-1120 grant ave)

hollister (hollisterco.com)

out of the Blue (103-99 osborne st)

hugo Boss (hugoboss.com)

paramix (108-100 osborne st)

hush & shout (203-999 osborne st)

pasWera (paswera.com)

antidote Beauty (facebook.com/antidotebeauty)

ifuku (109 osborne st)

provici cosmetics (233 mcdermot ave)

Berns & Black (468 main st)

joe fresh (available at superstore)

rooster (452 river ave)

Bijou treasures (190 provencher Blvd)

kat Willson (katwillsonphotography.com)

ruBy and peal (rubyandpearl.ca)

Bri foster (brifoster.com)

le chateau (polo park)

safire hair & esthetics (1104 pembina hwy)

sandBoX spring 2011

sandBoX advertiser spotlight Check out this issue’s advertisers: ContriButor ContaCts silver lotus (111 osborne st) spareparts (polo park) spring shoes (myspringshoes.com) superstore (grant ave) tara davis (taradavis.ca) the Bay (polo park) the velvet vixen (etsy.com/shop/ thevelvetvixen) toWn shoes (polo park) unfold apparel (225 Mcdermot ave) value village (valuevillage.com) vintage Bling (vintagebling.ca) vintage glory (88 albert st)

andrew Chipman (pullteeth.net) Brittany alyse (Brittany-alyse.CoM) Brittany dona-lyn (Brittanydonalyn.CoM) denise mCmullin (deniseMC.CoM) izaBela raChwal (izaBelaraChWal.CoM) Kat willson (katWillsonphotography.CoM) Katy winterFlood (katyWinterflood.CoM) KliChÉ studios (kliChestudios.CoM) lisa Varga (lisavargaphotographer.CoM) lynlea ComBot (lynleaCoMBotphotography.

Blogspot.CoM) madison rosas (Madisonrosas.CoM) pinK elephant photography (pinkelephantphotography.

CoM) raezaVel argulla (Cheapthrillsss.CoM) riley stewart (rileysteWartphoto.CoM)

SANDBOX is dedicated to promoting local fashion and independent designers. E-mail s.bodiroga@sandboxmag.com to be considered for upcoming fashion stories or editorials.

Boon Burger divine & ConQuer faMe five tWo BoutiQue life sMiles dental london life MiChael kovalik MtC out of the Blue pasWera pride Winnipeg proMenade Bistro safire hair & esthetiCs Winnipeg CoMedy festival

are you or your business interested in advertising in SANDBOX magazine? please email advertising@ sandboxmag.com for more details.

The most memorable photo shoot this issue was easily the “Down to Earth”(pg 67) shoot with Pink Elephant Photography. It’s rare that the three of us can attend a shoot together, especially since our team already included 12 adults and one child. And it wasn’t the fact that the fourth floor held a mind-warping studio or that our stylist, Chanelle Salnikowski, had taken photographs of the 18 outfits she had sprawled across her living room floor - it was the box of Starbucks coffee. Who knew coffee came in a box? I mean, we’re all too familiar with boxes of wine, but coffee? Glorious. Hours were spent admiring the pugalicious pooches in the Valentino documentary but even more hours were wasted playing video games - a huge inspiration for the jewellery feature with a throw back to 90s toys. Hauling up totes full of Beanie Babies, stickers and every other collectible you can imagine made for a nostalgic shoot at Katy Winterflood’s studio. Though we were often caught in a time-warp of hits and misses from our youth, we had the most fun brainstorming in different restaurants until the romantic mood lighting shut off and we were kicked out. Here’s to the days of our youth.

PHOTOS BY KATY WINTERFLOOD AND KAT WILLSON

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days of our youth

EACH ISSUE, THE QUIRKIEST OF ITEMS INSPIRE THE PAGES OF SANDBOX. CHECK OUT THIS ISSUE’S MOOD BOARD PRODUCTS.

SUE SYLvESTER, WWW.COSTUMzEE.COM; SUE SYLvESTER, WWW.COSTUMzEE.COM;

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