VAMP MAGAZINE FEB/’17
ISSUE
#26
Trend spotting – best dressed men P.40
>20 We take a look at the stranger side of fashion.
JEAN PROUVÉ CONSTRUC TEUR A nod to the great French constructor. P.38 + much more!
“ A double dose of bling and cuisine + loads of geometrics and all the usual visual therapy ”
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ith the S/S collections having not yet hit the high streets and the love season coming to a full swing, we themed this mini issue heavily on jewellery – featuring gold, rocks and all that shimmers and glimmers, making sure you don’t screw it up this Valentine’s day. The talented chefs at Corinthia Palace cook up their regular culinary masterpieces and loads more cuisine is featured in an extended valentines food section this issue. From the catwalks, B-Biche gives us a round- up of the latest trends for men spotted at the top shows. Mike Ross explores the life of one of the great French ‘constructeurs’ of the twentieth century - Jean Prouvé, and Daniel Pérez, Felipe Araujo and Mario Vila from Egue y Seta bring us a laid-back yet ultra functional and beautiful pad in beautiful Barcelona, followed by a geo-inspired spread featuring the latest home collections by the hottest brands available locally. With Malta reconsidering it’s stance on cannabis and new revelations seem to be released on a daily basis, David Kaan explains what mother’s milk and cannabis have in common. – The answer will shock you! On another note. We explore new insights in the arts and neuroscience, asking the questions of all questions... what is consciousness? – A mind-blowing exhibition I happened to bump into on my visit to Germany a few months ago. All this and more inside. Enjoy!
14. STRANGER THINGS
A look at the stranger side of fashion
16. THE MATHEMATICS OF LOVE
Julian Cardona brings some math into the equation
20. SPOTTING + STEALING
As International Fashion Week comes to an end, B.BICHE takes a look at what the best-dressed men wore in and around the shows
22. THE SHINING
This issue we go really heavy on the jewellery
32. REVENGE OF THE SLOB
VAMP takes a look at the benefits of being a slob
38. JEAN PROUVÉ – CONSTRUCTEUR
A biography on the great French constructeur of the twentieth century and industrial society. By Mike Ross
47. HOLY MOTHER OF MILK
What does a mother’s breast milk and cannabis have in common. The answer might surprise you! Editorial VAMP Editorial Team
Photography: Matthew B Spiteri Model: Nikolette Urcas @ Supernova Model Management Make Up: Krista Paris Hair: Becky Vella @ Dean Gera Hair Care Jewellery: Marco Bicego necklace, €18,050, bracelet, €24,425, ring, €2,925, and earrings, €2,575, all from the Confetti Isola Collection exclusively available from Diamonds International.
Creative Director Chris Psaila Design + Layout Chris Psaila Nicholas Cutajar Fashion Editor / Stylist Carla Grima Photographers Matthew B Spiteri Alan Carville
Published by [ V ] PUBLICATIONS
Sales Manager Sam Psaila 7788 0300 Contributors Andy Mc Kenna Andrew Vella B-Biche Becky Vella Carla Grima Claire Giordmaima Daniel Perez David Kaan Egue y Seta Felipe Araujo Filippa Grima (supernova) Gianni Zammit Julian Cardona Krista Paris Mario Vila Marlene Vassallo Matthew B Spiteri Mike Ross Nicola Gera Nikolette Urcas (supernova) Owen Bonello Ruben Borg Ryan Pisani Valeria Bonjera Victor Vella
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Dates, information and prices are believed to be correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor the publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that the organisations and firms mentioned are reputable. The editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfill their obligations under all circumstances. Copyright 2017
48. THE SELF – AN EGO MACHINE
VAMP explores new insights in the arts and neurosciences
56. GEO–LUST
The latest must-haves for your home
58. A LIVE–IN TALE IN MADRID
Egue y Seta bring us a stylish pad in beautiful Madrid
72. PERFECT PARADISE
White sandy beaches, beauitiful wildife and scenic beauty. That’s what holidays are made of!
79. EAT OUT – VALENTINE’S GUIDE
VAMP brings you 4 impressive eat out ideas for Valentine’s Day LOADS MORE >> facebook.com/ vampmagazine malta
www.vamp.com.mt
UPDATE
UPDATE. FEB / MAR – 2017
NEW LHR CARD BY PERSONA To cater for those clients who are looking for the most costefficient way of getting rid of unwanted body hair, especially larger areas, while still receiving top-notch professionalism we recently introduced our 2017 Laser Card. This card entitles you to 5 hours of Laser by our highly qualified doctors, over the course of 1 year – guaranteeing you our best price. Plain and simple and with no strings attached! Enquire now since only a limited amount of Laser Cards will be sold. www.persona.com.mt
KINNIE KISS THE CELEBRATION COCKTAIL Take a long drink glass or goblet, put in some ice and add 2 parts Prosecco. Top up with Kinnie. Add soda or sparkling water for some extra fizz! farsons.com
VAMP IS NOW ONLINE Malta’s leading urban culture magazine has also gone digital. Now, readers can find VAMP easily and quickly at www.vamp.com.mt. facebook/vampmagazinemalta
ZAP ZAP ZAP GETS THAT CHAP DAY & NIGHT SPOT STICK Don’t you hate it when a zit suddenly appears? Doesn’t it remind you of your boss and how you’d like to blast him away? Well this won’t exactly get rid of your boss but it’ll blast those pesky spots. A day and night spot stick for zits, this little double ended product is a hero, having a daytime formula and another evening formula to work on the spots around the clock. Exclusively available from Ta ’Xbiex Perfumery T: 21 331 553
ROBERTO CAVALLI UOMO The new Cavalli man deserved a fragrance in synch with his unique outlook, a leitmotif to his way of life. An exclusive aromatic oriental woody fragrance, a combination of precious ingredients that create a perfect harmony between timeless Italian sophistication and dandy rock boldness. Roberto Cavalli Uomo , the fragrance for the man who is composing his life. Roberto Cavalli products are exclusively distributed by X-Treme Co. Ltd. For information kindly call 23882000.
THE LOVE ISSUE 09
STYLE FILE
SCENTS OF THE SEASON. THE GIFT THAT NEVER FAILS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY 4
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1 & 2. Invictus and Olympea Intense The Heroic God and Goddess of fragrance return in a mythical storm of renewed intensity. Paco Rabanne’s new fragrances, Invictus Intense Eau de Toilette and Olympea Intense Eau de Parfum offer a darker penetrating take on their original counterparts, delivering divine power, carnal sensuality and legendary triumph with every spray.
4. Shiseido Ever Bloom Eau de Toilette is a radiant, velvety and clean everyday fragrance of subtle elegance. The composition reveals a new olfactory concept, containing two types of accords: Radiance and Presence. Ever Bloom is made of notes of orange blossom, gardenia and peony combined with osmanthus, violet and musk. The glass bottle is in frosted pink and white.
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Exclusively available from Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Tel: 2133 1553
Distributed by C+M Marketing Ltd. Tel: 2142 4079/80/82
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5 & 6. Nina Ricci Nina and Luna, together Les Belles de Nina by Nina Ricci, are now available in 20ml collectible bottles. A tribe of women in the making, Nina and Luna enter life as if they were biting into an apple. Stronger together, joining forces through tacit recognition, an unwavering bond that needs no words.
3. Trussardi Uomo The Red Precious as a ruby, sumptuous as silk velvet and as rounded as fine Bordeaux: the new Trussardi The Red fragrance has a fundamentally masculine appeal. Exclusively distributed by X-Treme Co. Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000.
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Exclusively available from Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Tel: 2133 1553.
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Q U I RKY L I T T L E T H I N G S HIGHLIGHTING OUR AC C E S S O RI E S D R AWE R S T H I S S E A S ON. K E E P I N G I T B O L D WI T H P L AY F U L D E S I G N S A N D S T RON G F E M I N I N E C O L O U R S
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1. Dolce & Gabbana glasses from Vision Opticians, €309. 2. Prada sunglasses from Vision Opticians, €355. 3. Prada sunglasses from Vision Opticians, €407. 4. Khaki bag from Desigual, €79.95. 5. Dolce & Gabbana glasses from Vision Opticians, €210. 6. Scarves from Desigual, €35.95. 7. Khaki bag from Desigual, €79.95. 8. Guess sunglasses from Sunlab, €98. 9. Henry London Shoreditch watch from Sunlab, €219.10. Fossil Jacqueline watch from Sunlab, €109. 11. Skagen Anette from Sunlab, €39. 12. Scarves from Desigual, €35.95. 13. Daniel Wellington Classic Black reading watch from Sunlab, €169. 14. Michael Kors Iconic necklace from Sunlab, €89.
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F U T U RE C L A S S I C S T H AT C A N B E WO RN A NYWH E RE . A F E W C L A S S I C P I C KS T O S U B T LY H I N T T O YO U R PA RT N E R D U RI N G T H I S L OV E F I L L E D M ON T H
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1 & 2. ECLAT Earrings: €200 Bracelet: €230, available from HEBE Malta International Airport (Landside), Diamonds International Portomaso and Pjazza Tigne. 3 & 8. UNO de 50 Earrings: €85 Ring: €85, available from HEBE Paceville, Paola and Malta International Airport (Landside), Classic Jewellers Sliema and Valletta. 4, 6 & 7. Pandora Earrings: €45 Necklace: €69 available from Pandora Sliema, Valletta and Victoria (Gozo). 5. Obaku Watch: €180, available from HEBE Paceville and Malta International Airport (Landside), Classic Jewellers Sliema, Valletta and Mellieha.
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FASHION
ST R AN G E R T H I N GS . VAMP KICKS OFF WITH SOME BIZARRE FASHION TRENDS TO INSPIRE OUR FASHION FLAVOUR FOR THE YEAR
ANTI FASHION Inspired by Marcel Duchamp’s work during the Dada movement (Anti Art)... This is a definite Anti Fashion story.
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WHEN HORROR COMES TO LIFE Never mind Hellraiser, I call this one Hair-raiser! Man that is creeeeepy!
HUMAN SILKWORM Our answer to the freakishly cold weather this winter. Knits are always a winner on any cold winter night.
HEAVY ON TOP Cleverly constructed but super unbalanced! Please don’t make this the MustHave of 2017! We might have to adjust to larger wardrobe spaces.
FASHION
With fashion constantly repeating itself and trends leading highstreet sales, VAMP has gone above and beyond to give you a fresh take on creativity for 2017. Fashion has never been more... er... subjective:/?!
COUSIN IT’S RUNWAY INSPIRATION We find this one a little tricky to relate to. Maybe we just don’t love orange enough.
SEEING TRIPLE Complex construction has definitely been achieved in this outfit... But Goldielocks’ 3 Bears are just a little too much.
WALKING ART? Not the best trend to follow if you suffer from Vertigo. It’s obviously some sort of propaganda statement but, damn, people!
LOVE HEART The most huggable jacket on the market! Perfect for getting cozy on long haul flights. Just not sure about the glasses. [ V ]
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THE MATHEMATICS OF
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BY JULIAN CARDONA
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MATHEMATICS OF LOVE
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f you think you are the only one feeling gloomy about not having found your soul mate yet, think again. Peter Backus, a U.K lecturer and researcher, was so desperate that one day he actually sat down and calculated that he had only a 1 in 285,000 chance of finding love. That’s lower than the probability of finding intelligent, extra-terrestrial life. Equally mesmerised by the hard facts of love, John Gottman and James Murray, two US researchers, applied mathematics to the dynamics of relationships and actually derived a mathematical formula which forecasted how conflicts between married couples devolved or got resolved.
Of course, you would be forgiven for believing that the beautiful mysteries of Love cannot possibly be quantified by the regimental laws of mathematics. But this doesn’t mean that maths hasn’t got something useful to say about the most talked about, sung about and waged-war about issue in life. After all, there are equally complex patterns, like the formation of weather or the mindboggling movements of the stock market that are successfully modelled by mathematics. So, could Love possibly be another complex yet tractable set of patterns ready to be laid bare by maths? According to Hannah Fry, author of the bestselling book “The Mathematics of Love”, maths has a lot of valuable insights to give. In her book she sets out to explain how interesting statistical patterns emerge in each of the three key stages of relationship formation: the dating stage, the life-partner selection stage and the relationship cultivation stage. Starting from the dating stage, we commonly think that beauty is the most important factor when it comes to attracting potential partners. And whilst having the right symmetry always helps, statistical analysis on thousands upon thousands of recorded interactions between people on dating apps shows clearly that this is not the case. Research carried out by the two mathematicians who founded the popular dating site OkCupid shows that the people who receive most messages are not those who we might normally think as the most beautiful but those who are likely to divide opinion. This means that, contrary to what we might expect, a regular John or Jane who have some unique physical characteristic and who are not afraid to reveal it in the profile pic might actually have a higher probability of attracting people than the Brad Pitts and Giselle Bundchens out there. The logic is that most people avoid tempting their fate by asking out the most beautiful people for fear of rejection and look for those who are average-looking but have some discernible feature that they like. The maths is clear about this: be yourself and show who you truly are; someone will dig it. >>
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MATHEMATICS OF LOVE
When it comes to eventual partner choices, the mathematics gives us even more startling results. According to statistical research, the optimal way of selecting a partner is this: reject the first 37% of your dates, then choose the best person who turns up after that initial batch. As ‘Shakespearianly’ romantic as this sounds, this is actually not very far from what is observed in nature. This is not only confirmed by many mating rituals studied in the wild, but it is also what many experience in the human realm. Who amongst us hasn’t adopted a ‘test the waters’, ‘taste everything from the buffet’ and ‘get the feel for the market’ approach to dating? I don’t think it’s too far-fetched to say that most of us try to get as much dating and intimacy experience early in life, only to finally settle for the ‘right one at the time’ partner in their late twenties or early thirties. I agree, maybe not everyone plots dating experiences on a spreadsheet, but it is nonetheless true that many do sample, compare, reject, then sample again until the “successful candidate” triumphs after all initial data is factored in. So, thinking about it, many do date just for the sake of dating early in life and then only resolve on dating seriously after reaching a certain level of maturity. We will never know if the person we’ve chosen is truly the best out there, but we all try to choose the best based on our past experiences. So, after you’ve successfully attracted many candidates and eventually chosen your lifetime partner, you are now deep in a relationship. Where do you go from here? What can you do to increase the probability of having a successful marriage that doesn’t end up in divorce? The most common answer is that a relationship is all about compromise and closing one eye. Whilst many Ta’ Cana professors would surely concur with this, maths warns us that we should play the compromise game with caution. American researchers Gottman and Murray used their knowledge of psychology and mathematics respectively to team up and derive a formula linking husband and wife’s reactions during an argument to variables like: current
mood when alone, current mood when with partner and partners’ influence on each other. Their results gave answers that were not expected. According to their research the best way that couples can create the proper mood and the proper influence on each other is to lay their feelings all out and leave no stone unturned. Bottling up is very dangerous in a relationship and no person should settle and accept their partners’ flaws as non-negotiable. The main reason for this, according to their research, is that these bottled-up feelings end up creating a ‘negative downward trend’ and the influence on both magnitude and direction of eventual arguments will be significant. The couples who discuss everything and never let things go, are those that are constantly tweaking and mending their relationship and they are also those who end up feeling the most positive about their marriages. Gottman and Murray’s equation has been shown to predict divorce with a 90% accuracy! Much to his own surprise, our broken-hearted lecturer Peter Backus, met the love of his life and married her in 2013. This was just four years after publishing the incredibly popular paper: “Why I Don’t Have a Girlfriend,” in which he predicted his dismal chances of finding love. This does not necessarily mean that the estimate is wrong or that maths and love should never be placed in the same sentence. In fact, if one had to think about it, finding the right person is incredibly hard. The trick, according to mathematical laws, is to use the law of large numbers to your advantage. This basically means that in order to find love you have to get out there, mingle, choose places in which you have a high probability of finding people who satisfy your criteria, be yourself and let people get to know you, speak your mind and express your emotions clearly without fearing judgment or lack of interest. Once you find the right one, respect yourself and don’t settle. Come to think about it, this is some solid advice. And who said maths was boring? [ V ]
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FASHION
[ STREETSTYLE ]
B Y W W W . B - B I C H E . C O M
Why “SPOTTING and STEALING?”, you might wonder, when styling is what I do for a living. Simply put, it’s because my sense of styling the opposite sex leaves much to be desired — according to my better half. Lucky him, you and me, International Fashion Week has just come to an end, meaning tons of inspiration on the internet! Let’s have a closer look at what the best-dressed men wore to and around the shows. 022 THE LOVE ISSUE
FASHION
We’re going to continue to hide our necks, so don’t you dare throw away those zip-up turtle necks!
It seems that it’s the return of the beanie, hoodie and nineties streetwear
You can still get away with your skinny jeans, although baggy cuts are definitely winning
It’s now time to tuck in that tee (or hoodie) and get comfy in PJ’s ― even after sunrise!
You can stay cosy and start sleepwalking ― because, besides the long coat, the puffa jacket is a hit-anda-half. Duck-down feather galore, and ideally oversized too. Swaddle time!
Choose camo and deep dark mossy green ― don’t be afraid to experiment with neon colours
Experiment in general! This winter you really can’t go wrong. Start colourblocking, mix and mismatch patterns, fabrics and colours ― have fun with it!
I’m not sure if he is ready for this, but I am absolutely over the moon having picked up so much inspiration and ideas. Learning really can be fun! What are YOUR favourite looks? More streetstyle looks on www.b-biche.com [ V ]
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FASHION A celebration of precious treasures! With Valentine’s day around the corner we are inspired by the stunning accessories dressing up the shop windows this month. Enjoy a heavily jewelled celebration of this month’s treats in store.
THE SHINING ‘17 P H O T O G R A P H Y : S T Y L I N G : M O D E L : H A I R :
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Scarf: Desigual €35.95 Ring: Skagen €49 Watch: Daniel Wellington €139 Bracelet: Skagen €59 Necklace (top): Skagen €49 Necklace (bottom): 2 Jewels €59 Earrings: 2 Jewels €59 all available @ Sunlab & VIP.
Earrings: PIAGET – Possession Collection, 18 carat rose gold earrings with diamonds, €2,850 Necklace: PIAGET – Possession Collection, 18 carat rose gold necklace with diamonds, €12,500 Bangle: PIAGET – Possession Collection, 18 carat rose gold bangle with diamonds, €11,350. All exclusively available at Diamonds International.
Dress: Carla Grima Atelier €120 Earrings: Marco Bicego - Lunaria Collection, 18 carat yellow and white gold earrings with diamonds, €3,450 Necklace: Marco Bicego - Lunaria Collection, 18 carat yellow and white gold necklace with diamonds, €6,925 Bracelet: Marco Bicego - Lunaria Collection, 18 carat yellow and white gold bracelet with diamonds, €4,775 Ring: Marco Bicego - Lunaria Collection, 18 carat yellow and white gold ring with diamonds, €2,675 All exclusively available at Diamonds International.
Top: Carla Grima Atelier €215. Earrings: CHAUMET – Hortensia, 18 carat rose gold earrings with diamonds, pink opal and pink tourmaline, €22,725. Necklace: CHAUMET – Hortensia, 18 carat rose gold necklace with diamonds, pink opal and pink tourmaline, €10,300. Bangle: CHAUMET – Hortensia, 18 carat rose gold Bangle with diamonds, pink opal and pink tourmaline, €50,675. Ring: CHAUMET – Hortensia, 18 carat rose gold ring with diamonds, pink opal and pink tourmaline, €40,175. All exclusively available at Diamonds International
Dress: Carla Grima Atelier €300 Earrings: Nanis - Lagoon Collection 18 carat yellow gold earrings with diamonds, €2,350 Necklace: Nanis - Lagoon Collection 18 carat yellow gold necklace €18,025 Bracelet: Nanis - Lagoon Collection 18 carat yellow gold bracelet €9,900 Ring: Nanis Lagoon Collection 18 carat yellow gold ring with diamonds, €2425 All exclusively available at Diamonds International.
Sunglasses: Dolce & Gabbana €279 available at Vision Opticians Fgura. Cape: Carla Grima Atelier €215, Earrings: Buckley London €46, Necklace: Buckley London €46, Ring: Buckley London €46. All available at camilleriparismode
Sunglasses: Prada €626 available at Vision Opticians Fgura. Scarf: Desigual €35.95 Bag: Desigual €99.95 Left hand watch: Fossil €109, Rings: (set of 3) Fossil €59, Right hand ring: Michael Kors €99, Ring: Michael Kors €109, Ring: Fossil €45, Rings: (set of 2) Fossil €69, Bracelet: Michael Kors €79, Necklace: Michael Kors €99, Earrings: Michael Kors €79. ALL available at Sunlab & VIP.
Dress; Carla Grima Atelier €300
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The desk of Albert Einstein, photographed immediately after his death and featuring his unfinished manuscripts of the Unified Field Theory, a.k.a. The Theory of Everything, which aspired to summarize all the physical forces in the universe.
You have permission to be messy at work and in your home office. A chaotic room could be indicative of your unleashed creative genius. VAMP looks at workspaces where a ‘messy genius at work’ has changed our lives.
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instein, who was known for a messy workspace, famously said: “If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, then what are we to think of an empty desk?” This is not just limited to Einstein of course: some of the most influential minds in history from Mark Twain, Steve Jobs, Leonardo Da Vinci, Fancis Bacon and Picasso are also known for their messiness. And it’s fascinating. Maybe we are envious or just curious. What is the link between one’s inner and outer environment? For years now, home décor magazines have espoused the ideal of minimalist, almost Spartan, interior décor. Perhaps it is time
to be reminded that the minimalist interior, with everything in its place, is an idealized vision of how we are supposed to live. It is an ideal that many aspire to because we equate order with beauty and cleanliness and therefore, value. We respect the disciplined person who follows the rules. We judge the the book cover, the clothes, the car and the room. However we also instinctively know that many creative people seem to always be surrounded by mess, so it’s fascinating to see the evidence in pictures. Just like the research that says that chocolate and wine are good for you, many frustrated creatives sigh with relief at hearing scientific evidence that being
messy is a sign of creativity. We need someone else to say it’s okay. It’s okay to be messy sometimes, says Tim Harford, a British economist, author and journalist who theorises that mess can be much better than precision and order. Mess can range from actual untidiness, to disruption, distraction, unexpected collaboration, and context-switching. Harford’s book Messy: How To Be Creative And Resilient In A Tidy-Minded World, makes a compelling case that there are a lot of areas where it pays to open up to the idea that mess is to be embraced rather than fought against. >>
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PEOPLE
Above: Andy Warhol in the factory (1966) “Lucian Freud Working at Night” (2005) by David Dawson
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Steve Jobs
Yves Saint Laurent
Pablo Picasso
Jackson Pollock
A famous study published by psychological scientist Kathleen Vohs and the University of Minnesota, showed that messy desks have benefits like helping promote creativity, stimulating innovative ideas and also promoting abstract thinking, while keeping your desk tidy promotes healthy eating, conventionality and generosity.
Vohs explains: “Prior work has indicated that a prim and proper workspace leads people to do good things like not engaging in crime, not littering, and show more generosity, towards others… We found, however, that you can get really valuable outcomes from being in a messy setting also.”
One of the experiments found that when people who were placed in either messy rooms and tidy rooms were asked to come up with new uses for a ping pong ball, although both messy and tidy people generated the same number of ideas, participants who were situated in messy rooms came up with more interesting and creative ideas than those from clean rooms.
In another experiment, participants were asked to come up with other uses for ping pong balls. The participants in the messy room created the same number of ideas for new uses as their tidy counterparts. But their concepts were rated as much more interesting and creative. “Being in a messy room leads to something that firms, industries, and societies want
more of: creativity,” says Vohs, while suggesting it is important to have a balanced mix of personality types in a team – the messy and creative types to innovate and generate ideas, and the tidy and practical types who will execute them. “Orderly environments encourage convention and playing it safe. Messy environments seem to inspire breaking free of tradition, which can produce fresh insights.” Great news for all of us who struggle with tidiness and who have been chastised for it. The question is, which “really valuable outcomes” will you encourage, for yourself and the people around you? Can you embrace the mess? [ V ]
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DESIGN HP SPROUT G2 3D-SCANNING PC With its integrated 3D and 2D scanners, the Sprout G2 is perfect for product designers, CGI artists and other people who can benefit from incorporating 3D models into their workflow. It comes with a stylusenabled touch mat that acts as a second screen. It’s pretty niche but pretty cool too. Pricing coming in March 2017.
GADGETS in 2017 LIKE THEM OR NOT HERE IS WHAT 2017 IS LOOKING LIKE
FOVE IS READY! According to sources, Fove is ready for the masses. Fove is the first VR headset with eye-tracking technology, and it’s hard to overstate how important this feature is going to be. On specs alone, the Fove hardware is a contender to the big dogs, and in fact betters the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive on resolution per eye by 40%. The device will retail for $599.
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NORTON CORE ROUTER The Core wireless router, uses advanced machine learning and Symantec’s worldwide intelligence network to defend your home Wi-Fi. Its Core router will defend all devices connected to it against malware, viruses, and hackers. Core features a 1.7GHz dual-core processor, two USB 3.0 ports, and four gigabit Ethernet ports. It also sports a 4×4 MU-MIMO platform, which is designed to achieve maximum throughput speeds of 2.5Gbps.
DESIGN
NABI ARISTOTLE VOICE ASSISTANT.
It’s a baby monitor. It answers all your questions, and maybe your kids’ questions, too and It has an Amazon Alexa voice-activated smart assistant; it can order more diapers if you run out, and soothes the babies back to sleep automatically. A dream gadget for parents.
AIRBAR
AirBar plugs into the laptop’s USB port and can sense when the user touches an area on the screen. Users can attach the device to the bottom of the display using magnets. According to their press release it “emits an invisible light.” AirBar recognizes zooming with two fingers, swipes, pinching, scrolling and dragging. We’ll have to wait to see how accurate it really is.
CUSTOMISABLE PIG HEAD
The Hamlet in bronze is beautiful pig wall hanging idea we found cool. Don’t want him in bronze? Pig heads can be custom made in any colour of your heart desires. Like it or not, here’s where to find them. www.etsy.com
CROSLEY USB TURNTABLE
Go old school with this. The mini-jack input and Bluetooth functionality enables it to play easily from all devices. But mind your surroundings, as the 6”studio driver and 2” speakers make the Soundbomb loud as hell! www.amazon.com
PAPER PLANE ON STEROIDS
The micro-motor that converts a paper airplane into a powered aircraft remotely controlled from a smartphone. An app on an iPhone, iPad, or Android device controls the airplane from up to 180’ away using Bluetooth. Shifting the app’s throttle up or down causes the aircraft to ascend or descend, tilting your smartphone steers the rudder to provide turns, a horizon displays the airplane’s attitude in realtime. www.amazon.com
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DESIGN Jean Prouvé, the multi-talented multidisciplined French designer, engineer, draughtsman, builder, artist, craftsman, entrepreneur, architect - but above all constructor, was born in Paris in 1901. Words: Mike Ross
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DESIGN
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is father, Victor, was a painter, engraver and sculptor, his mother, Marie Duhamel, a pianist. Jean grew up in a stimulating artistic environment in which his father was cocreator, (along with Émile Gallé, the eminent Art Nouveau glass artist, who was also Jean’s godfather, and Louis Majorelle, the famous ceramicist and furniture designer), of the École de Nancy, in Lorraine, a north-eastern district of France. The ideals of the movement espoused the approach that “every object must be of the highest quality and a product of its time”. Art must be accessible and with social consciousness, while encouraging closer links between art and industry. “I was raised in a world of artists and scholars, a world which nourished my mind”. This attitude would greatly influence Jean’s outlook and output throughout his long career. The outbreak of war in 1914 forced changes on the Prouvé family when it became clear that Victor’s painting was not enough to support his family. Young Jean, with a passion for aircraft and cars, had his sights set on becoming a mechanical engineer but had to give up his studies at the School of Fine Arts in Nancy, and at just fifteen became apprenticed to Emile Robert, a master blacksmith and friend of the family, in Enghien, north of Paris. >>
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DESIGN It was here, submitting to physically demanding twelve-hour days at the forge, that he gained intimate knowledge of everything that there was to know about metal, the material with which he was to become inextricably linked for the rest of his life. Further training took place at the workshop of another wrought-iron craftsman in Paris itself, where Prouvé extended his experience and expertise with the most up-to-date metalworking and welding techniques. Military service in 1921 interrupted his progress but by the time he returned three years later he was ready to set up his own workshop in Nancy. As a “wrought iron craftsman” in his own right, he produced gates, railings, grills, balconies and chandeliers. He exhibited locally and most importantly at an international exhibition in Paris where he came into contact with modernism, inspiring in him a keen interest in sheet metal, stainless steel and ever more advanced techniques in welding. Crucially at this time he started to design and produce modern metal furniture and began lasting collaborations with some of the best-known designers and architects of the day, notably Le Corbusier, who would also become a frequent client to whom Prouvé’s sparse geometric aesthetic appealed. In 1930 Prouvé was instrumental in setting up the Union des Artistes Modernes with Le Corbusier and other collaborators – “We like logic, balance and purity”. Clearly the École de Nancy ethos had rubbed off. At the age of 30 he founded “Ateliers Jean Prouvé” where he pioneered techniques in folded metal resulting in his “Standard” chair and various other designs primarily aimed at institutions such as schools and hospitals. Based on his intimate knowledge of the properties of the newly discovered materials at his disposal, Prouvé designed and produced a wide range of what has become iconic furniture throughout his career. The “Antony” chair, the “Bridge” armchair, the “Compass” table, Stool No. 307 – these have all become classics in the combination of physical functional strength with lightness and elegance of form. His philosophy consisted of always using the newest materials and latest techniques, whether designing an armchair or a petrol station.
Such was his understanding of the properties and limitations of metal that he constantly strove to investigate and experiment with new materials that were easier to manipulate and twist, such as aluminium, and new processes like arcwelding, resulting in being one of the first to use folded sheet metal for building, producing prefabricated houses, building components, and furniture for the social sector. His Maison du Peuple in Clichy, which featured the first curtain wall, was described as “an outstanding monument of functionalism and a hymn to metal and
folded sheet”. Utilising the innovative methods of folding sheet metal that he had developed, he went on to design a series of tables that have the perceived lightness of bridges plus the presence of architecture. “There is no difference between the construction of a piece of furniture and a house”, he said. Up until the Second World War his business grew and there was no shortage of work but the war inevitably presented new challenges and opportunities. >>
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DESIGN
DESIGN ANYTHING THAT “ NEVERCANNOT BE MADE ”
There were quotas on electricity and raw materials, and due to the scarcity of steel, Prouvé began working to create furniture where the dominant material was wood. He had already designed portable and demountable barracks for the French army and when the war ended the government commissioned him to design inexpensive, effective housing for those recently made homeless by the conflict. This led to an increased and passionate interest in the possibilities of prefabricated and mobile architecture. The results included various demountable houses over the next few decades. The ease and speed at which these demountable buildings can be erected and dismantled is best appreciated through numerous short time-lapse films and animated drawings freely available on Vimeo courtesy of Galerie Patrick Seguin, the primary gallerist, collector and guardian of Prouvé’s oeuvre. The 1939 4x4 Military Shelter, the 1944 6x6 and the1945 8x8 Demountable Houses, the1956 Temporary School of Villejuif, the 1969 Ferembal House and Total Filling Station, can all be seen being assembled sometimes in a matter of hours by a team of as few as four men with basic tools. The 1949 Metropole Aluminium House being set up at the Tuileries Garden in Paris, perhaps best demonstrates the industrial materials which were the hallmark of this self-taught architectural innovator.
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DESIGN Another noteworthy project in the early ‘50’s was the Maison Tropicale, a lightweight prototype house that could be shipped flat-packed, and was meant for use by Air France employees in the Congo incorporating adjustable sun shutters specifically tailored for the climate of the French colonies of tropical Africa. Having been politically active during the war as a member of the Resistance, at liberation he was rewarded with the position of Mayor of Nancy and later honoured with Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur for his wartime activities. As an employer, Prouvé was described as “a boss who remained a fellowworker” and “extremely unpretentious” as a person. He was a pioneer of worker participation, introducing a minimum wage and profit sharing for employees. He instilled in his colleagues great pride in their work and his enthusiasm engendered team spirit in the workplace, which in turn resulted in increased productivity. Again, this was the social consciousness promoted by the École de Nancy in action. In 1953 Prouvé stepped down as CEO of his company after policy disagreements with his majority stakeholders Aluminium Français and in so doing lost the factory he had set up in Maxéville near Nancy. The following year he built his own minimalist house on a steep hillside overlooking his hometown, using the principles he had developed for the various demountable houses and what he described as “leftovers” from previous projects. He remained heavily involved in various architectural and furniture projects and collaborations as well as finding time to continue his teaching. Throughout his career he was presented with numerous prizes and awards for his work and in 1965 was honoured as Chevalier de l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres. In 1971 he played a decisive role as president of the jury of the International Competition for what would become known as Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, by selecting the winning project by Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano.
Prouvé died in 1984 leaving an important enduring legacy as one of the 20th century’s most influential and innovative industrial designers, and all aspects of his work have won new appreciation among connoisseurs of modern design. As an architect, most of his buildings are protected as classified historic monuments, and his furniture is much sought after by museums and collectors. Because of their very nature, his ‘demountable’ houses, those that have survived, command high prices at auction. His Maison Tropicale sold for just under $5 million in 2007 and an original example of his all-wood Standard chair is currently on sale for nearly €11,000. His collectors include actor Brad Pitt, gallery owner and mega art dealer Larry Gagosian, and fashion designer Marc Jacobs. The combination of functional engineering and artistic sensitivity has given his work a relevance that is every bit as current today, and Vitra, the Swiss furniture company, issues re-editions of some of his designs in close cooperation with the Pouvré estate.
Jean Prouvé’s lifelong commitment to the exploration of new materials, innovation in prefabrication and industrialization, and constant experimentation, combined with elegant aesthetics and a strong social conscience has placed him at the very pinnacle of 20th Century design and architecture. [ V ] Jean Prouve Vitra chairs can be ordered at Dex workspaces, Qormi.
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PEOPLE
HERE’S A MOUTHFUL...
What do mother’s milk and cannabis have in common?
Words: David Kaan
W
The rant of David Kaan
oven deep into the fabric of the human body is an elaborate system of proteins known as cannabinoid receptors which are specifically designed to process tetrahydrocannabinol known as (THC), which is one of the primary active components in cannabis.
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As it turns out, based on the findings of various scientific studies, human breast milk naturally contains many of the same cannabinoids which are found in cannabis, and which are actually extremely vital for the proper development of the human body. Our body’s cell membranes are equipped with these cannabinoid receptors and when activated by cannabinoids and other nutritive substances, protect cells against various ailments such as viruses, cancer, harmful bacteria, various serious malignancies and more. Research shows that human breast milk contains a high source of endocannabinoids, a type of neuromodulatory lipid that basically teaches a newborn how to feed by stimulating the suckling process. So a newborn child would not know how to eat, nor would it have the urge to eat, if it were not for these cannabinoids found in breast milk. Strange as it sounds, it’s similar to how people who smoke weed get the “munchies”. Newborns who are fed their mother’s milk receive doses of cannabinoids which trigger hunger, promoting healthy growth and proper development.
There is little doubt about the huge medicinal value cannabis offers, but despite its potential, despite the endless multitude of evidence from scientific studies conducted in every part of the world, despite the fact that it is virtually unmatched by any modern medicine, it remains for some reason illegal and widely unavailable to people who need it.
So what does this mean for the boobless human? The human body for both male and female contain two types of cannabinoid receptors – the CB1 type found in the brain and the CB2 type found in the immune system and the rest of the body. These receptors respond to cannabinoids, be it from a mother’s breast milk in infants, or from juiced, vaporized or smoked cannabis, in both male and female adults. So to sum it all up it’s pretty safe to say that the human body seems to have been constructed for cannabinoids, since these nutritive substances play a critical role in boosting immune function, protecting cells against disease, relieving pain and diseasecausing inflammation whilst protecting the brain and nervous system, promoting proper energy metabolism and appetite regulation, treating metabolic disorders and multiple sclerosis and preventing neurodegeneration, among many other conditions. Cannabis, from which cannabinoids are largely derived, truly is a health-promoting “super” nutrient with virtually unlimited potential in health promotion and disease prevention.
Patients are basically being force fed expensive artificial pharmaceuticals (which contain a whole array of horrible side effects and chemicals) and stand the risk of being arrested if they simply choose to try a God– given natural alternative to relieve their suffering. I find it shocking at how someone in pain can be denied relief, regardless of what the substance is. But on a brighter and bolder note, it seems Malta is rising above and reassessing its stance on the subject. Thanks to the great work of a few medical professionals at The Pain Clinic in Paola, progress is being made to make Bedrocan available, which is a pharmaceutical-grade cannabis (can be smoked, ingested or vaporized.) There is also the possibility of local cannabis dispensaries in the future. The taboo associated with cannabis is, thankfully, in the process of being eradicated and with a little luck, tens of thousands of people can soon enjoy a natural and healthy form of therapy without any dangerous sideeffects or the fear of being arrested. I find it hard to understand why a plant was ever made illegal in the first place. I have my theory. What’s your’s? [ V ]
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THE SELF – AN EGO MACHINE
By Valeria Bonjera
EXHIBITS
Carsten Hoeller
EXHIBITION. LECTURES. 12. OCTOBER 2016 – 4. MARCH 2017
WHAT IS CONSCIOUSNESS? EXPLORING NEW INSIGHTS IN THE ARTS + NEUROSCIENCES
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Peter Kogler
EXHIBITS
J
ust what is consciousness exactly and why do we human beings have it? These questions are among the greatest unsolved mysteries of science. New techniques in brain research have led to unexpected results over the past few years. Neuroscientists all agree on one thing: the ego is an illusion created by the brain – but an extremely useful one. It ensures that we grasp only excerpts
of reality, that we perceive ourselves as just one body and that the world appears uniform to us. From the point of view of neuroscience, consciousness is an ego machine, a gigantic processing center that is based on the complex, pulsating discharge of billions of neurons which are compressed into an ego illusion. Without the brain’s ability to standardize, we would be lost. We couldn’t communicate with other people, couldn’t
cooperate with them, learn from them, feel for them. Attempts are being made for the first time to transfer the human model to external systems such as robots or avatars. The rapid advances in fusing artificial intelligence and robotics are making the distinction between man and machine more permeable. We are on the threshold of a consciousness revolution. But what are the consequences? >>
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EXHIBITS
Thomas Zipp
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Peter Kogler
EXHIBITS
“ Do we feel with our brain and think with our heart? ” Answers to these and other questions are what the ERES Foundation’ latest project “The Self – an Ego Machine” is searching for. How do we empathize with others? What happens in states of trance? What kind of consciousness do animals have? The exhibition shows artistic reactions to the fascinating results of contemporary neural research as well as surprising, original insights into the complexities of human consciousness. Paweł Althamer uses LSD, magic mushrooms, hashish and other substances to put himself in expanded states of consciousness. In his performance film, “Do we feel with our brain and think with our heart?”, Jan Fabre discusses that question with neuroscientist Giacomo Rizzolatti. Carsten Höllers series of photographs, “Sina”, deal with whether
or not animals have consciousness. Peter Kogler, with a cube especially conceived for this exhibition, questions the traditional experience of space and in doing so unleashes perplexing consciousness phenomena. His latest collages head straight for the subconscious with their visual swirls – a series part wildly colourful, part black hole remix. The exhibition is also showing new “Rubbings” by Matt Mullican as well as his video “Breakfast”. His latest piece “Untitled (A place to sleep)” is surprisingly storylike and formulates the human desire for security and intimacy with very simple means. Thomas Zipp has devised an ensemble consisting of paintings on canvas and electronic musical instruments that functions as a “neural network”. With antennas as “organs of perception” his music machine turns out to have life
of sounds all its own – and perhaps even consciousness. In addition, there are the amazingly artistic drawings by Spanish physiologist Santiago Ramón y Cajal (1852-1934), who was the first to identify transmitting neurons as the building blocks of the nervous system. There is also a photograph of the brain, taken by Ulrich Blum, doctor and photographer. To give visitors an impression of the new possibilities of generating virtual reality and the increasingly perfect illusion technology, VR headsets (Oculus Rift) will be part of the exhibition. This new technology makes it increasingly difficult for the brain and consciousness to distinguish between virtual reality and the real world – with spectacular effects. >>
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Peter Kogler
EXHIBITS
IF YOU HAPPEN TO BE IN GERMANY.... EXHIBITION. LECTURES: 12. OCTOBER 2016 – 4. MARCH 2017 ARTISTS Paweł Althamer, Jan Fabre, Carsten Höller, Peter Kogler, Matt Mullican, Thomas Zipp SCIENCE + ART Ulrich Blum, Santiago Ramón y Cajal, Albert Hofmann, Ernst Mach LECTURES AND DISCUSSIONS Thursday, 9. February 2017, 7pm
Jan Fabre
Prof. Dr. Melanie Wilke, Director of the Department of Cognitive Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, German Primate Center, Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory “Do animals have consciousness?” FOR MORE INFO Reservations recommended: info@eres-stiftung.de [ V ]
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DESIGN
UPDATE GRASSHOPPER LAMPS – GUBI
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DESIGN
GAVA RUG BY CALLIGARIS
Available from Ideacasa
SEXTANS LAMP BY CALLIGARIS
Available from Ideacasa
GUBI MIRRORS
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DESIGN Author:
Photography:
Building contractor:
Egue y Seta
VICUGO FOTO www.vicugo.com
COMSA
www.egueyseta.com
Daniel Pérez, Felipe Araujo, Mario Vila
Location Chamartín, Madrid
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(constructora de obras municipales S.A) www.comsa.es
DESIGN
A LIVE - IN TALE IN MADRID
Neither a castle nor a cabin in the woods: this story´s home, though certainly peculiar, could not be called unique for it has a ‘twin’ to which it is annexed, jointly creating a ‘singular’ architectural ensemble. And though not crowned by a tower or a campanile, it does organise itself into a series of three rectangular-shaped staggered floors that are topped by gabled roofing under which one can find a double-height bookcase full of books and stories. >>
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But let’s not put the cart before the horse, let’s put our feet back on the ground and return to the main entrance at street level. Once upon a time there was a house we accessed by climbing up a few steps that led us into a porch and a front yard where flower pots blooming with lavender awakened our senses, a small garden that surrounds the house up until its northern side where we find the terrace with its swimming pool... as nowadays enchanted wells have rather little use. Behind two generously-sized sliding glass doors and at the very heart of this house´s ground floor there is a large living room filled with famous authors and their characters who look at us askance from every corner of the thirty vertical square meters of custommade solid wood bookcase recovered from the family´s previous home. We can read about all of them while lying in one of the vintage armchairs from the 50’s that flank the large chesterfield cognac leather sofa
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or when sitting around the superb dining table rescued from a now-disappeared nineteenth century French farmhouse. If a passage or two open up your appetite, one only has to take a couple of steps towards the open but independent kitchen, which is set as a practical and comfortable space, where the whiteness of the kitchen furniture is combined with the warm texture of a wooden table and the ruggedness of grey concrete floors. To complete this floor´s programme: a small office, in case you feel like writing, and a toilet with its shower, for a man shall not live by bread alone. Here, in a rhetorical exercise of stylistic economy and for the sake of a ‘little diet’, it was decided to use only two materials, micro-cement and wood, creating a resounding space of unquestionable practicality and formal purity. >>
DESIGN
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They say that reading has the power to elevate and enlighten us, so it’s time to go up to the first floor hall to which we are welcomed by a large pendant lamp that emphasizes the double-height of the space and the vertical character of the house. From here we head to the bedrooms. In the first we could read bedtime stories: a children’s bedroom where to dream and play under a tree-house-like bunk bed. In their bathroom, the little ones share a Koholer metallic double sink in retro style, surrounded by walls of hexagonal Hisbalit tile and grey micro-cement flooring over which everyone wants to get wet. In the master bedroom the undisputed star is the light: the different walls and skylights let the sun into bed every morning while inviting us to get up and live a new episode of our own personal story. In the master bathroom two bowl sinks facing the window are placed over a vanity top covered in white micro-cement that has been extended towards the shower,
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turning itself into a shelf where to leave perhaps another volume while, if we have enough time, we relax by taking a ‘fable’ bath in a free standing ‘anthology’ tub. The last chapter of this house finds us at the top floor, one that takes place amongst meetings, play and guests. Here at the foot of the bookcase that greeted us in the third paragraph, we find a playroom ready to turn itself, when necessary, into a double guest bedroom, and the perfect spot to store the literary and video graphic treasure this family hides, while a suspended net bed turns the area into the perfect place to, literally, hang. And here we say our good-byes, even though we still have a lot of ink and paper left. It’s time to shut up and let you see pictures worth a thousand words. But before and though recipe books do not usually end with such phrase (in this case we could not resist it), they all lived happily ever after. [ V ]
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Make-up: Krista Paris Model: Filippa from supernova model Photo: Matthew B Spiteri Hair: Nicole by Dean Gera
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BEAUTY
GET THE LOOK WITH THESE TOP MUST HAVE PRODUCTS EVERY GIRLS NEEDS THIS SEASON! Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation Clarins laboratories have developed the first foundation that combines coverage with the lightness and finesse of a loose powder to create the illusion of flawless bare skin. The result: matte skin, while the complexion is even and luminous with a transparent finish. Clarins 4-Colour Eyeshadow Palette A quartet of satin, matte and iridescent finishes line, contour and define in harmonious shades with results that are smooth, crease-free and long-lasting. Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector Sheer tints of colour plus 3D shine. Acacia micro-pearls and vegetable waxes nourish, protect, soften and plump. Soothes the senses with a delicate vanilla scent. Wear alone, or top off your lipstick for the glossiest lips around. Clarins Instant Light Lip Perfecting Base A new innovative lip base which instantly smoothes lips and sets lipstick to ensure
long-lasting hold. Both a treatment and make-up, this transparent base is enriched with acacia micro-pearls and vegetable waxes. Clarins Fix Make-Up A light and refreshing mist that sets makeup and gives longer-lasting hold. Enriched with aloe vera and allantoin, it instantly moisturises and soothes the skin. Contains Clarins’ exclusive anti-pollution complex. Clarins Crayon Khôl Eye Pencil An easy-to-apply essential for intensifying the eyes. Kohl Crayon can be applied as a traditional kohl or around the eye contour area, blended using the natural hair brush. Long-wearing formula. Clarins Double Fix Mascara The first Clarins double-use top-coat mascara for waterproof eyelashes and brows. This completely invisible gel is applied to your regular mascara to make it resistant to water and sweat. Applied to eyebrows with or without makeup, it flawlessly controls and shapes.
Clarins Joli Rouge Brillant No.32 – Hot Pink For lips that are truly irresistible: new Joli Rouge Brillant Lipstick provides intense moisture and enhances lips with a subtle shine and sheer finish. This special formula hydrates lips for 6 hours while providing flexibility, comfort and brightness. Max Factor Masterpiece Nude Palette Orchid Nude Three palettes featuring a range of eight shades, from natural light tones to intense dark tones to work with every skin tone. Velvety smooth eyeshadows in multidimensional textures: matte, shimmer and sparkly. Dual-nib applicator for precision and smooth blending. Max Factor Masterpiece High Precision Liquid Eyeliner Transform your look with bold intensity. The unique paddle-shaped tip draws both a dramatic thick line and an elegant thin line, to create the precise look you want. Clarins from all leading pharmacies and perfumeries. Max Factor from VJ Salomone Marketing. For your nearest stockist contact freephone 80072387.
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BEAUTY Marc Jacobs: Decadence A sensual, luxurious and woody fragrance, Decadence embodies the spirit of irreverent glamour. Rendered in a palette of rich emerald green, Decadence features an exotically textured arched python cap. A gold chain and black silky tassel finish the look, defining a new era of glamorous luxury with the re-emergence of clean lines, rich materials, and opulent details. Exclusively distributed by X-Treme Co. Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000.
NEW Dercos Ultra Soothing Sulfate-Free Shampoo Introducing Vichy’s solution for sensitive and reactive, irritated scalps – the sulfate-free shampoo Dercos Ultra Soothing Shampoo. This shampoo works instantly to soothe the scalp for up to 48 hours. It cares for coloured hair, irritations are minimized and after 19 days of use, scalp discomfort is reduced by 60%! Available exclusively in pharmacies. For more information email: vichy@prohealth.com.mt
Polaar: Genuine Lapland Hand Cream Polaar’s Genuine Lapland Hand Cream contains Arctic raspberries, blackberries and lingonberries which work in synergy to perfectly moisturize, nourish and protect, together with shea butter and beeswax. Suited to all skin types and free of paraben, alcohol or mineral oil. Exclusively available from Ta’Xbiex Perfumery 2133 1553.
Christian Dior: Miss Dior Absolutely Blooming Miss Dior Absolutely Blooming is a floral delight you return to over and over. Its top notes of tangy Red Berry are joyful and striking. At its heart, a sublime duet of Grass and Damascan Roses embraces a sensuous Peony accord. This infinite blooming of fresh flowers is comforted in a base of White Musk notes. Exclusively distributed by X-Treme Co. Ltd. Tel: 2388 2000.
Valentine’s at Myoka Spas This Valentine’s find all the shades of love with Myoka Spas’ luxurious gift vouchers starting from €40. Candle oil massage, milk and honey bath, chocolate envelopment and more. Offers valid till end of March. Contact Myoka Spas on 2137 0163 or any of our 5 star spas on the island. E: lotus@myoka.com; W: www.myoka.com
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PARADISE TRAVEL
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RETURNS. TRAVEL
Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to discover new horizons. This month Vamp inspires you to venture out of the cold neighbouring countries and discover the hidden gems of the Caribbean. Islands even smaller than our little native rock, full of breathtaking tropical scenery, wildlife adventures and pure relaxation. >>
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TRAVEL
Throughout the property you can enjoy beautiful tropical gardens shaded by giant palm fronds and banana tree leaves, cacti, mango trees and flowering bougainvillea which conspire to create an intoxicating and intimate atmosphere. The refreshing decor stays true to the island’s exotic charm with hints of St. Barth’s French colonial history. Each of the 21 bungalows and villas offers a distinct style, an effortless ease and calming ambience, giving the guests a luxurious feeling as though they are on their own private island. End your long days by the beach with a soothing after-sun treatment in the spa or an aperitif at the Rum Bar, fully stocked with the best Caribbean Rum and fine cigars. Villa Marie is a true invitation to relaxation in a Dolce Vita ambience. http://saint-barth.villamarie.fr; Tel: 00334 5774 7474. Bungalows from €400 to €2100.
“
Travel to the hills of Colombier in Saint Barthelemy where you will find the charming hotel Villa Marie Saint Barth. Overlooking the spectacular Flamands Beach, this is one of those destinations where the romance and charm are matched only by the rugged and exotic beauty of this island oasis. 0 97 06 T H E L O V E I S S U E
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Photos: Villa Marie – St Barth / L. Benoit
TRAVEL
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Paddle boarding on the turquoise waters, kite surfing or a romantic beachwalk, the charming staff will make sure to plan an unforgettable experience for you. This intimate family-owned hotel provides ultimate luxury and privacy, offering only 36 suites in addition to 3 large four-bedroom villas. The hotel features a swimming pool, a sundeck, a restaurant and a spa pavilion all of which overlook a virtually private beach. serenohotels.com; info@lesereno.com
“
Our pick for a more active holiday would be Le Sereno St. Barths. Nestled inside Grand Cul de Sac, a beach that spans over 600 feet of pristine shoreline, is the perfect location to enjoy some watersports. 0 97 08 T H E L O V E I S S U E
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Photos: Sereno Group
TRAVEL
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CUISINE
4
Dish: Chef Andrew Vella - The Arches
RESTAURANTS WE LOVE.
VALENTINE’S FOOD SPECIAL
White Chocolate and Strawberry Mousse, Pistachio and Chocolate Cake, Raspberry Coulis, Passion Fruit Sorbet
VAMP kicks off the season of love with a delicatble selection of spreads prepared by Malta’s most loved restaurants. Behold! >>
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CUISINE
#1 THE ARCHES
E stablished three decades ago, the restaurant has achieved an incredibly outstanding reputation worldwide hosting hundreds of personalities. As from the opening of “The Arches”, success was based on excellence in service and best quality, presentation, creativity and tastes incorporated in every item of the menu. After a recent refurbishment, all this was added to a top elegant atmosphere, accompanied by the launch of a new à la carte menu prepared by award winning chefs, which welcomes you to explore a new area of challenging delights in an extraordinary ambiance. “The Arches” has also its own wine cellar apart from seeing it from the restaurant; diners are allowed to visit the cellar to make their choice if necessary. We will be very delighted to welcome you in this extraordinary ambiance.
Pan-Fried Red Mullet, Lobster and Salmon Tortellini, Lamb Lettuce Puree, Salt Baked Baby Fennel, Poached Asparagus
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CUISINE
#1 THE ARCHES
PRESENTATION, CREATIVITY AND TASTES INCORPORATED IN EVERY ITEM OF THE MENU.
GET RECIPES ONLINE AT vamp.com.mt
Slow Cooked Lamb Loin with Carrot and Mint Crust, Carrot Puree, Sweet Potato Fondant Baked Parsnips, Quinoa, Lamb Jus
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#2 CORINTHIA PALACE
HERE ARE A FEW “ FINE RECIPE’S TO HELP MAKE A RE A L S TAT E M E N T ”
Starter: Owen Bonello and Claire Giordmaina Main course: Gianni Zammit and Ryan Pisani Dessert: Reuben Borg and Victor Vella from Corinthia Palace
BLACK PUDDING BROWNIE, BLACK GARLIC ICE CREAM, BEETROOT CARPACCIO & COFFEE MOUSSE [ RIGHT ] Black Pudding Brownie: 56g butter 113g sugar 1 egg 38g cocoa 56g flour pinch salt 40g beeetroot juice (cooked) 7ml Cointreau 60g black pudding Black Garlic Ice Cream: 3 black garlic cloves 200 ml fresh cream 35g sugar 1 egg yolk Beetroot Carpaccio: 10ml red wine vinegar 10g sugar 5g glucose juice of half orange 5ml Cointreau 5ml Kirsch 1 red beet, sliced with a mandolin and then cut with a round cutter, size depending on personal preference
Almond and Black Pudding Crumble: 20g ground almonds 10g flour 10g butter 5g oats 10g black pudding 10g sugar Chia Seed Croquant: 50g sugar splash of water 20g chia seeds Coffee Cream: 25g milk chocolate 150ml fresh cream 8g coffee granules 25g sugar Black Pudding Brownie: Melt butter in a small pot. In a separate bowl sift together the flour, cocoa powder and salt, add the sugar and mix in the melted butter. Gradually add the beetroot juice, Cointreau and egg. Crumble the black pudding and fold in. Grease two metal rings and dust with cocoa powder. Place on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper and pour in the mix. Allow to rest twenty minutes before serving and bake in an oven at 180 degrees. To check for readiness, insert a clean needle which should come out clean.
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Black Garlic Ice Cream: Heat the fresh cream with the whole black garlic cloves, whisk egg yolk and sugar together. Blend the garlic and cream in a food blender, pour over the egg mixture and whisk. Pass through a fine sieve and chill. Place in an ice cream churner following instructions. Allow to set, place in a clean container and store in freezer until needed. Beetroot Carpaccio: Boil all the ingredients until sugar is dissolved, pour whilst still warm over the beet. Almond and Black Pudding Crumble: Melt butter in pan. Mix the flour, oats, sugar, ground almonds and black pudding, pour over the butter and lightly mix. Spread on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper and bake in an oven at 180 degrees for ten minutes. Chia Seed Croquant: Boil the sugar with the water and do not allow to colour. Sprinkle the chia seeds on a baking parchment and pour the sugar over. Allow to cool and break into pieces to be used as a garnish. Coffee Cream: In a pan warm half the cream with the sugar, coffee and the chocolate. Pass through a sieve and allow to cool. In a bowl whisk the remaining cream to the soft peak stage and fold in the chocolate-coffee mix. Put in a piping bag and chill before use. >>
#2 CORINTHIA PALACE
CUISINE
Wallpaper, cutlery, watering can, scoop & clip, small bowl from Loft; side plate from camilleriparismode.
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Wallpaper and cutlery from Loft; side plate, gold plate, napkin and holder from camilleriparismode
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#2 CORINTHIA PALACE
#2 CORINTHIA PALACE
CUISINE
Wallpaper, cutlery, flower and bowls from Loft
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#2 CORINTHIA PALACE
AVOCADO AND STILTON ROULADE, ORANGE BRAISED CHICORY, PICKLED SHALLOTS AND CANDIED WALNUTS Ingredients: 1 ½ avocado 30g Stilton 75g cream cheese 1 lemon, zest ½ chicory 1 orange 125ml vegetable stock 4 springs thyme 30g sugar 30g water 8 walnuts ½ shallot, cut in rings 67g red wine vinegar 125g water 67g sugar 1 lemon, juice seasoning 4 king prawns, shelled
15ml olive oil assorted cresses (garnish) Method: For the roulade, take half an avocado and cut in fine, thin slices, layer neatly on clingfilm. Mix the Stilton with soft cream cheese, 4 walnuts (chopped), lemon zest and season to taste. Fill the avocado with the cheese mixture and roll neatly, making sure it’s nice and tight and store in the fridge to set. For the purée, blend half an avocado with the lemon juice, adjust seasoning and set aside. For the chicory, warm the vegetable stock with thyme, orange juice and the remaining orange and braise the chicory for about 20 minutes or until just wilted. Remove from the liquid and set aside.
1 garlic clove 5g ground coriander 5g ground cumin 5g chili powder 15g coriander fresh, chopped 5g baking powder Vegetable oil for frying
Freekeh and Fava Bean Pilaff Ingredients: 70g freekeh 50g carrots, brunoise 50g onions, brunoise 30g celery, brunoise 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 15g ground cumin 15g fresh coriander, chopped 60g fava beans (soaked overnight) 180ml vegetable stock
Carrot & Cumin Jus Ingredients: 100g red lentils 400 ml carrot juice ½ lemon juice 3 g ground cumin 5 ml apple cider vinegar
Falafel Ingredients: 50g chickpeas, soaked overnight 25g red kidney beans, soaked overnight 20g onion, chopped
For the shallots, bring to boil the vinegar, water and sugar, remove from the heat and add the shallots, allow to cool down in the pickling liquor. To plate, spoon some avocado purée at the edge of the plate and spread with a small spatula. Remove the roll from the clingfilm and position in the centre of the plate. Decorate with some dots of the avocado purée and garnish with the candied walnuts and assorted cresses. Sautée the prawns in the olive oil and plate. Torch the dried chicory, cut in half and plate near the roll. Make some dots with the avocado purée to fill the gaps. Finish with the shallot rings.
For the candied walnuts, mix the sugar and water and bring to the boil. Add the walnuts and leave for 2 minutes then pour the walnuts onto a tray lined with baking paper
ROASTED HERITAGE CARROT, FREEKKEH AND FAVA BEAN PILAFF, LENTIL AND CORIANDER PURÉE, RED KIDNEY AND CHICKPEA FALAFEL, CARROT CUMIN JUS, SMOKED ALMOND AND SUMAC CRUMBLE
Lentil & Coriander Purée Ingredients: 100g red lentils ½ onion ½ celery stick 50g carrot 100 ml almond milk 15g ground coriander 15ml olive oil 50g almond butter
and allow to cool.
Method for Freekeh and Fava Bean Pilaff: Place the onions, carrots, celery and olive oil in a large heavy-based pot and sauté on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes. or until the onion is soft. Meanwhile, soak the freekeh in cold water for 5 minutes. Drain in a sieve and rinse well under cold running water. Drain well. Add the freekeh, ground cumin and fava beans to the onions, followed by the stock, and season with salt and pepper, stirring well. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a bare minimum and leave to simmer for 15 minutes. Ensure that fava beans are cooked. Remove the pan from the heat and leave it covered for 5 minutes. Finally, remove the lid and leave the pilaf to cool down a little, about another 5 minutes. Stir the chopped
coriander into the warm pilaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Method for Lentil & Coriander Purée: Cook red lentils with the onion and celery until lentils are soft. Remove the onion and celery, drain the lentils (keep some of the cooking liquid to this purée to desired consistency). In a pan heat the olive oil, lightly sauté the carrot and add the red lentils. Toast the ground coriander and add to the pan. Add some liquid and continue to simmer until carrot is cooked and then blend with the almond milk. Adjust seasoning, mix in the almond butter and keep warm. Add some reserved liquid if purée becomes stiff. Method for Falafel: Pulse the red kidney beans and remove from the blender. In the same blender pulse the chickpeas with the onions, garlic, spices and the fresh coriander. Add the red kidney beans and pulse. Remove from the blender and refrigerate. Make a small patty and fry to check consistency and seasoning. Adjust as necessary. Method for Carrot & Cumin Jus: Toast cumin in a dry pan, add the carrot juice, turn down the heat and reduce until a syrup consistency is achieved. Add lemon juice and cider vinegar, check seasoning and strain through a fine sieve. Keep warm until ready to serve.
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one to try!
surf ‘n’ turf If you’re looking for an epic experience try Sciacca. It ranks high on our style-o-meter and the food (especially the steak) is oh so good! A great all rounder, combining real food in a ultra cool atmosphere >>
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A GREAT “ALL-ROUNDER
COMBINING FUSION CUISINE WITH A SLICK SETTING
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