SEPTEMBER Issue 6
Style & Substance in the Asian era
Mid-Autumn Mania ...the rise of chocolate moon cakes
CHINA’S CANVAS: THE RISE OF CHINESE CONTEMPORARY ART
SEXY GREEN...THE ELECTRIC ROADSTER THAT OUT-ACCELARATES A FERRARI
WET SEASON CHIC: EMBRACING THE ELEMENTS JONATHAN HURSH ON FOUNDING COMPASSION FOR MIGRANT CHILDREN ALL NEW GETAWAYS! SHANGRI-LA, PARIS: THE ORIENTAL HOTELIER’S EURO-DEBUT CAMBODIA BY MOTORBIKE
OFF- SEASON SECLUSION: SANTORINI 1
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Aeris what’s on?
SEPTEMBER 2011
FASHION
On the Cover Models: Emily Zhang, in Shanghai Tang’s “Officer” silk
shirt with jade buttons, wool jersey skinny pants and “Tattoo” stilettos and Tamoya M, in Shanghai Tang’s 3-buttons collar shirt in white cotton poplin with contrast trims and “Double Happiness” orange denim pants. Originally from Shanghai, Emily moved to Hong Kong to pursue her modeling career. “They love the ‘sweety’ look in Shanghai- I prefer Hong Kong,” she laughed. “When I turn 25 though, that’s it- my parents have already decided I will return to Shanghai, have a big birthday celebration and fall for a Shanghainese boy... but I would rather stay here and keep working... 25 is so young!” Having worked in London and Tokyo, Tamoya is now enjoying a stint in Hong Kong. Over VERO dark iced chocolates and banana mint muffins, he shared his passion for good food. “I would love to become a TV food presenter so I can travel and taste food- from hearty Dai Pai Dongs to gourmet chocolate! I might do a journalism course first to get up to scratchAnthony Bourdain is my absolute hero.”
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The Armoury Embracing the Wet Season Timeless Time: a return to classics with IWC
FOOD
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Vero Chocolate Mooncakes Mixology: Shaken & Stirred Sushi Kuu: Riding a Tidal Wave
TRAVEL
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Shangri- La Paris Debut Blazing Trails in Rural Cambodia Off Season Seclusion- Santorini
ART
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China’s Canvas Value In The Eye Of The Holder BMW Featuring Jeff Koons Art
TECH
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STREET TALK: Iphone vs Blackberry Tesla Electric Roadster
PERSPECTIVE
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Compassion for Migrant children
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The Team
with
special Thanks to SARAH BENT, Image Contrubutor Living in Hong Kong for over 30 years, Sarah is a self-taught watercolour artist and Chairperson of Artists Abroad. She specialises in botanical and still-life paintings, many of which feature the flora and fauna of Asia.
KA MING HO - Technology & Layout Editor,
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G
S
C
was born in Hong Kong, but has lived in Canada and France before settling in London. As a Cantonese, Mandarin, French and English speaker, he enjoys travelling and learning about different cultures. He has worked at the BBC and the Financial Times.
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AMANDA
SIEW (23) - Founder & Editor-in-Chief & Health and Beauty Editor, is an aspiring dermatologist who
KA LAM, Kalamakeup After graduating from HKU with a BA degree, she became a make up artist and studied in London College of Fashion in 2004. Over the years, she has worked with international and local celebrities, high fashion magazines and international fashion houses, making clients comfortable in their own skin.
recently completed her degree in Medicine & Surgery in England. Raised in London and Hong Kong, she started working as a part-time model with Elite Model Management at the age of 16. Drawing on her experiences in modelling, fashion and internet publishing, she founded AERIS Magazine in 2010.
GRACE
BROWN (23) - Creative Director, graduated with double Bachelors of International Studies/ Law from Sydney University. She gained journalistic experience at StarWorld,APV, Channel Seven, CNN and Bloomberg. Raised in Hong Kong, Grace speaks fluent Mandarin and is passionate about business, people, fashion and art.
SNEHA ROY, Writer / Editor Sne majors in English/ Education at the Hong Kong Institute of Education and speaks English, Hindi and French. Sne has worked at Harvard University for the Model United Nations and for Ruchi, an Indian microfinance NGO. She also worked in theatre production, as a cast member and behind the scenes, in lighting and design.
SOPHIE BENT (24) - Director of
Communications, was born and bred in Hong Kong, before completing a Bachelor of Commerce in Sydney and Boston. She is currently undertaking a Master of Strategic Public Relations. Her work experience incudes Burson-Marsteller, Hong Kong Disneyland, Hongkong Land, Jardine Airport Services Group and the Mandarin Oriental.
CHERRY
NG (24) - Sales & Marketing, was born in
CHRISTOPHER SIM, is an engineer with a passion for food and travel who formerly wrote for the Imperial College newspaper. Having lived in London and Melbourne he is now living in Amsterdam and writes in between international projects as a chemical engineer.
Hong Kong but has lived in Sydney, York(UK), Beijing, and Lima. As a Cantonese, English and Mandarin speaker she enjoys learning about different cultures and travelling. She enjoys salsa dancing and meeting new people. Her work experience has ranged from selling in the top recyclable ink cartridge company in China to caregiving for children in Peru.
JESSICA LI (21) - Graphic & Layout Editor, born and raised in Hong Kong, is currently studying Graphic Design in Central Saint Martins, London. She works as a freelance designer and is interested in the visual language behind different cultures.
JOYCE YUNG
is an international photographer based in Hong Kong. Joyce uses her broad multinational education and experiences to extract the inner story in each of her photos.
www. joyceyung.com
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Foreword September 2011
“IF IT MATTERS TO ASIA’S DYNAMIC YOUTH, IT’S IN AERIS MAGAZINE.”
Dear reader, It’s been the busiest 2 months on record for AERIS Magazine! With a growing base of contributors and our newly- appointed Graphic and Layout Editor from Central Saint Martins, Jessica, we have been able to produce more high-quality, visually spectacular content than ever.
In all things Tech, AERIS spoke to Kevin Yu, Director of Tesla Asia, about electric cars and their latest Roadster, which out-accelerates a Ferrari (for a fraction of the price). We also get inside the big mobile debate- i-Phone v blackberry- asking a range of AERIS readers from across the world which device they have stood by and why.
From the world of Fashion, we introduce you to Hong Kong’s The Armoury, a men’s haberdashery making a stylish statement with inspirational craftsmanship, masculine refinement and a wardrobe “education” that promotes sustainability and self- confidence. We also showcase the seductive swimwear collaboration between La Perla and Jean Paul Gaultier, plus all the accessories you’ll need to waterproof your wardrobe this stormy season.
Finally, in a new section, Perspective, AERIS is honoured to interview Jonathan Hursh who left a comfortable life and secure job behind to found Compassion for Migrant Children (CMC), giving hope to China’s most vulnerable young people. We hope that as members of Asia’s dynamic, educated youth, AERIS readers contemplate the equally dynamic plight of migrant children- and remember that no matter how small, there is a way to help them overcome adversity.
In Food, AERIS is delighted to celebrate mid-Autumn Festival with a tantalising feature on chocolate moon cakes, featuring VERO. We also share fresh insights into mixology and how young Chinese consumers have shaped the menu. Finally, we mark the 6-month anniversary of the Japanese earthquake and Tsunami with an inspiring business story, exploring the strategy and story of Hong Kong’s Sushi Kuu. In Travel, we whisk you off to Paris, to give an exclusive sneak peek into Shangri-La’s spectacular European debut, at the former private palace of Prince Roland Bonaparte. We transport you to Santorini offseason, for enchanting seclusion far removed from the Greek Isle party- goers of summer. Lastly, get your helmet ready for Cambodia by motorbike, with four Hong Kong executives who shared their journey of adventure on the road less travelled… AERIS is also proud to share the recent history and trends shaping the fascinating and phenomenal rise of Chinese contemporary Art, as well as what makes a piece of art valuable to galleries and bidders. We also introduce an array of vibrant, oriental pieces from the upcoming “Festival” exhibition by Artists Abroad, sponsored by RBS Coutts.
In building a magazine out of nothing last year from a university halls room, to having a creative partner in Grace, 10 AERIS team members, a registered company, a brand new website (thanks to Cherry) and soon, Mandarin content, the experience of running AERIS re-affirms that with a great team, positive attitude and support from experienced advisors, anything is possible. AERIS would like to say a very special thank you to our newly- appointed Non-Executive Advisory Boardwhose diverse backgrounds and well-established careers will assist in AERIS’ continued development (more details to follow on our new website!). We’d also like to thank Shanghai Tang and VERO, for lending us your beautiful clothes and your space for our photo shoots. Special thanks must also go Joyce Yung, for delivering yet more eye-popping photography, Ka lam for the hair and makeup and to models Emily, Tamoya, Helene and Alex.
Yours in style and substance, Amanda.
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TRAVEL
The Oriental hotelier arrives in the City of Lights... AERIS Talks to Adelaide de Vivie, Director of Communications, to find out more...
HANGRI-LA’S EUROPEAN DEBUT Why was Paris the first destination for Shangri-La in Europe? Having established Shangri-la Hotels as one of the finest hotel companies in Asia in the past 40 years, one of our immediate goals now is to bring the group and its style of hospitality into Europe and beyond, to create a global brand presence. Shangri-La has announced hotels to open in London, Istanbul and Moscow. The first of these European hotels to open was Paris, where the Shangri-La brand debuts on the Continent in a 19th century residence that has been
restored and modernized for today’s travelers.
How did you select the property – the former private palace of Prince Roland Bonaparte? Shangri - La Hotels and Resorts selected the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte on 10 Avenue d’Iéna, because of its history, beauty, and location. The residence provided the opportunity to create a unique luxury hotel for the city that would combine Parisian elegance with Asian hospitality.
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TRAVEL
What are the challenges of taking a well-established Asian brand and transporting it to Paris? The most important attribute of Shangri-La that needed to be transplanted is the group’s hospitality from the heart. The hotel’s staff underwent extensive training, including a number of senior staff postings in Asia prior to the hotel opening, to ensure that the values and culture of Shangri-La would be understood and embraced by the staff.
Do you see a trend of Asian hoteliers moving into Europe? A number of Asian brands are looking for opportunities outside of Asia, just as Western brands are looking to expand beyond their regions into Asia. It is natural for leading luxury hotel brands, such as Shangri-La, to move into Europe.
What Asian touches did you bring for this market? Shangri-La brings a style of warm and caring service that is based on Asian values of hospitality. There are two restaurants in the hotel serving Asian cuisine. La Bauhinia serves a variety of
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authentic Southeast Asian dishes at lunch and dinner, and at breakfast guests can enjoy congee. On September 8, Shang Palace will open, serving authentic gourmet Chinese cuisines. Guests can find Asian artworks and furnishings throughout the hotel.
Are the Parisiens taking Shangri-La to heart? We have been honored that Parisians have taken Shangri-La to heart, becoming loyal guests of the hotel, the bar, the restaurants and selecting the beautifully restored historic salons for their celebrations.
SHANGRI-LA EUROPEAN DEPUUT
What are your Concierge’s top tips for dining, clubbing and sightseeing for young visitors to Paris? Here is a list of the top places to go to for dinner, clubbing and sightseeing for young visitors: • Restaurant La Société, 4 place Saint-Gemain des-Près • Restaurant Le Ralph’s, 173 boulevard SaintGermain, 75006, Paris • Restaurant L’Avenue, 41 avenue Montaigne, 75008, Paris • Restaurant Le Kong, 1 rue du Pont Neuf, 75001, Paris • Restaurant Pershing Hall, 49 rue Pierre Charron, 75008, Paris • Club L’Arc, 12 rue de Presbourg, 75016, Paris • Club VIP Room, 188 bis rue de Rivoli, 75001, Paris • Club Le Cab, 2 place du Palais Royal, 75001, Paris • « Paris forever » tour with private guide and driver (4-hour tour)
9 Images Courtesy of Shangri-La
CHINA’S CANVAS A CONNOISSEUR’S GUIDE TO CONTEMPORARY CHINESE ART
Following over 40 years of market and social reforms, new generations of Chinese have been exposed to fresh creativity and modern art spread exponentially. AERIS talks to Connoisseur Contemporary’s Chun Poon about the recent development of China’s art.
CHAN YU left: Che Guevara with Treble Meaning No.12 middle: Treble Personality No.15 right: James Dean with Treble Meanings No. 6 Acrylic on Canvas
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CHINA’S CANVAS
W
hen contemplating ‘Chinese art,’ it is all too easy to imagine delicate Chinese ink mountains and bamboo. Yet we’ve all been astonished and impressed by the emerging art from China in recent years. Within Hong Kong’s quiet, refined Connoisseur Contemporary gallery, there’s an eyepopping new wave on the walls- in digital motifs, fluorescent colours and ‘pop’ visions. The Central gallery’s Associate, Chun, is welcoming- insisting he is no expert, yet revealing striking knowledge of the changes Chinese art has undergone in recent years...
“After the ‘open up’ economic reforms- 改 革開放以后- Chinese society was suddenly exposed to a wide variety of foreign art... they were craving it,” reflects Chun. “Now, I think that Chinese are more interested in Chinese Art, so it’s growing quickly, both at home and abroad. I believe that foreign buyers’ interest really started to
climb in 2001, after Beijing was announced the 2008 Olympics host.”
WHO IS THE BUYER DEMOGRAPHIC? “It’s still mainly Western- particularly European or America. However, China has always had a ‘culture of collecting,’ so we are certainly seeing many more Chinese buyers in Hong Kong nowadays, too.”
WHAT ARE THEY BUYING? “Emerging Chinese artists are doing well. Meanwhile, Western art has reached maturity- a Chinese painting can be purchased for USD$10,000, but a Western painting might be USD$1 million - so there’s often more room for appreciation in Chinese art.”
AFTER GENERATIONS OF ARTISTS’ PERSECUTION IN THE CULTURAL REVOLUTION, WHERE DID THE EMERGING ARTISTS EMERGE FROM? “Throughout that period, art remained dynamic in Taiwan and Hong Kong, including the ‘new ink’ movement inspired by Western modern art (including pop art), which developed there in a uniquely Chinese way... In the Mainland, the Communist Party also printed propaganda posters featuring bold images, which are now regarded by many art historians as art piecesin themselves... Creativity exists, regardless of the social circumstances.”
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ART
HAS THE GOVERNMENT PROMOTED ART SCHOOLS MORE IN RECENT YEARS? “Yes. For example, during the early 20th century, many academies in (Southern) China began teaching and adapting Western oil painting, while training students to incorporate these concepts and techniques into traditional Chinese ink. This painting style was known as the Lingnan School (嶺南畫派), originating in Guang Dong. This knowledge has been restored. New academies have also sprung up across the country, including the famous central Academy, Sichuan Academy, and Hangzhou Academy...etc.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE COMMON THEMES IN MODERN CHINESE ART? “That depends on which generation the artists are from. I would say there are two generations which characterise the broad base of ‘modern’ Chinese art. The first main group were the post-1989 group of artists who led the country’s Avant Garde movement. These artists had harder childhoods, since China’s economic reforms were from 1978 onwards. They watched their society change dramatically
LI SHURUI left: Lights No. 102 right: Lights No. 96 Acrylic on Canvas
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including a growing wealth gap... Their art conveyed more political themes of power, consumer culture and social corruption.” “Then you have the artist from (roughly) 2004 onwards- the pop and digital artists. They had a more comfortable childhood, so politics plays a much lesser role in their art- it’s more visual instead. They were exposed to more Western influencescartoons, computer games, pop music, movies, so you see more optical illusions and vibrant colour palettes in their art.”
AS WITH ANY CREATIVE PRODUCT, COPYRIGHT PROTECTION IS A CONCERN FOR MANY ARTISTS IN CHINA. TO WHAT EXTENT IS THIS SAFEGUARDED? “Although there are well-drafted laws are in place, it is still hard to enforce your copyright until you are popular enough to pay for it...” He pauses. “Then again, you only really get infringed when you gain popularity too.
CHINA’S CANVAS
Chun Poon studied at New York State University and worked for the Asia ArtArchive, before joining Connoisseur Contemprary, locate at shop G4,1 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong.
ZHOU SIWEI left: Rainbow No. 1 middle: Infection -Astro Boy No.11 right: Infection – Mickey No.11 Oil on Canvas
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Image Courtesy of AIGLE
Night Owl Bag
Bow Bridge Little Kennedy
Rose Club Madeline
By KateSpade Available in: Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, Beijing, Suzhou, Taipei
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Images Courtesy of Kate Spade
FASHION
That is all you need to know about The Armoury. Drawing upon internationally renowned influences- from the foundations of Saville Row, to the striking style of Naples, to the meticulous detail of Tokyo- the Armoury is a boutique, yet global, haberdashery. They sell high-quality suit apparel, accessories and bespoke tailoring sourced from all corners of the world, creating male wardrobes that emphasise classic style and individuality over all things ‘trendy.’
THE ARMOURY
“We are not trying to be ‘this season’.” BY: SNEHA ROY “We run completely contrary to ‘perceived obsolescence’ -the act of making products that will go out of fashion,” adds Ethan Newton, the newest member of the team. The Armoury seek out what a client needs in order to manifest “the best possible representation of them,” rather than throw a black and white suit onto a man and let him blend into the rest. Their aim is two-fold: to let a man express his unique personality from suit to shoes and; to do so in a way that will be enduringly stylish. This is accomplished in partnership with likeminded, specialty artisans- Drakes of London ties, Carmina hand-made leather shoes from Spain and traditional tailoring from Naples, by La Vera Sartoria Napoletana, to name a few. Beyond blazers, shirts, jackets and trousers, The Armoury provide a handsome collection of cufflinks, ties, socks, and even umbrellas. Yet, “the products we sell are secondary to the advice we give”says Ethan.
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A refreshing change of scene from the ubiquitous, impersonal malls of Hong Kong, The Armoury feels less like a shop and more like an inspiring fusion between a library, lounge and walk in wardrobe. Ethan has commented it has been designed with the idea of a “menswear club” in mind- providing a “framework in which they are free to play with the different styles,” as well as to learn. Ethan also notes that they too are constantly learning from their client. At the Armoury, “it’s all about the education”- clients explore and are guided to what most suits them best, as the staff absorb which client prefers what kind of tailoring and what their individual style is. “We don’t deal with consumers, we deal with patrons. We learn from them as much as they learn from us.” The result? Inspirational craftsmanship, masculine refinement and above all, confidence.
Alan See (left) and Mark So (right), founders of the Armoury
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FASHION
PHONE: +852 2804 6991
ADDRESS: THE ARMOURY, 307 PEDDER BUILDING, 12 PEDDER ST, HONG KONG.
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THE ARMOURY
“It’s all about the education…the products we sell are secondary to the advice we give.”
Images Courtesy of The Armoury
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“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.”
- T.S. Eliot.
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FOOD
A MID-AUTUMN
CHOCOLATE
Delight
Ah, Lantern festival‌a time for candles on the beach, bright paper lanterns and richly satisfying moon cakes. This year though, there’s a new moon cake in town- and he goes by the name of VERO. Armed with a 72% cocoa shell, surprising taste infusions and all the goodness of ganache, these new wave moon cakes are guaranteed to entice us from our lotus paste - egg yolk comfort zone.
By: Grace Brown Photographer: Joyce Yung Models: Emily Zhang & Tamoya M (Starz People Agency) Hair and Makeup: Ka Lam (Kalamakeup)
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Emily Zhang in “Officer” Silk shirt with jade buttons, Wool Jersey skinny pants & “Tattoo” stilettos Tamoya M, in 3-buttons collar shirt in white cotton poplin with contrast trims &“Double Happiness” orange denim pants (all by Shanghai Tang)
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FOOD
L
ike the much-loved ice cream moon cakes before it, VERO’s chocolate moon cake is “not intended to replace tradition, but to accompany it as a fresh alternative,” says Bella Lo, VERO marketing representative. “Younger crowds in particular often find classic moon cakes too heavy… while they enjoy them, they often tire of the same taste and crave something lighter before long.” Redefining the art of the chocolatier, every bean is specially selected and sourced from cocoa centers around the world including Ecuador and the Dominican Republic. “Each region has a distinct flavour to their beans,” notes Bella. Upon gently cracking through the fine chocolate shell, exotic ingredients flood the palate. The balsamic raspberry moon cake involves a generous serve of puree and a barely there white chocolate cream fillingdelicate yet satisfying, with candied raspberry on top. I profess allegiance to this first chocolaty contender, but alas, mango and kaffri lime moon cake is next- and it’s
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juicy. “We sourced the mango from Africa,” Bella beams. The cream ganache is thankfully more sparing than the fresh fruit, with candied lemon pieces, artfully scattered on top, giving a tangy contrast. Then came Whisky. Unlike the usual, overpowering alcoholic truffle, VERO’s whisky moon cake marries candied blueberry and whisky-infused dark chocolate ganache, to keep the smooth Glenmorangie Original whisky from squirting and assaulting your attire. “While champagne truffles dominate alcoholic chocolates, champagne is not necessarily intended to be with chocolate,” Bella elucidates. “It’s quite acidic- whisky on the other hand is a warmer, soothing spirit.” I nod soberly- attempting such eloquenceas hers though all I can articulateis an honest “yuuuuuuumm...” After discreetly licking the last of the delectable myself out of nirvana- this is an education in chocolate and there are still two moon cakes to go! Sicilian hazelnut
with a delicious gianduja filling, topped with crunchy hazelnuts (and a divine lightness that would surely be insulted if compared to nutella), followed by Pink Himalayan salted caramel moon cake, with a layer of caramel and a rich, hand-blended caramel ganache… These unexpected flavour combinations are, like the moon cake encasing them, truly Hong Kong, adapted for the appreciation of Chinese chocolate fans with a harmonious balance of sweetness, with acidity or saltiness. The harmony doesn’t stop theretheir freshly baked mint and banana muffins transport one to a refreshing bliss not ordinarily contemplated. “The muffins don’t show our true cake capability. Try a cakethe cassis mallow is special,” Bella insists. After feigning polite protest, I let the cloud-like berry cassis and marshmallow intoxicate me- the glittering, violet-painted chocolate nest it presented itself within a poetic reminder of the little treat I had consumed... Like my petite cassis friend, VERO’s Mid Autumn promotion will not last. “Chocolate is like coffee, best served fresh,” smiles Bella. It’s certainly an imaginative gift for family, friends or clients and is equal in price to any average moon cake set- but one must be selfish, too. Take a moment to sit and sip a frosty, dark chocolate shake in the sophisticated, airy comfort of their Fenwick Pier shop and contemplate cocoa sculptures among panoramic views of the harbour… Dark, delicious and devastating, VERO is sure to open your mind as that magic melts in your mouth.
VERO Lounge, Shop 236, 2/F, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong. Phone: +852 2559 5810 Fenwick Pier, 1 Lung King Street Wanchai, Hong Kong. Phone : +852 2559 5882 http://www.verochocolates.com
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TECH
Yanny, Equities Broker “I prefer the iPhone as it’s more user-friendly overall. The screen is bigger than the blackberry, which makes it better for surfing the net or using you-tube. The calendar is easier to use and the camera’s better too. I have both an iphone and blackberry (for work purposes) but if I’m going out say, clubbing, I’d rather just take my iphone with me. The blackberry is better for business purposes since it’s sturdier and the keypad makes replying to emails easy.” In between weekly business trips, Yanny enjoys socialising, kick-boxing, pilates and holidays abroad. This year she ran the London marathon in support of charity.
Manoj, Private Banker “The iPhone. It’s sleek and sophisticated, great for work and fantastic for my entertainment. I like that I can sync my iphone with my itunes and listen to music when I’m on the move. I can also chose from an almost infinite number of apps to do anything from currency exchange, to playing high definition games, to purchasing on amazon.com with the tap of a finger. Why is the iphone better than the blackberry? Need I say more?” Manoj studied in the U.K. before returning to Hong Kong. In his spare time, he is a keen basketball player and an investor in new lounges and nightclubs.
Chaanah, Public Relations “iPhone. It’s more user-friendly, more convenient for social media usage (in terms of being able to navigate easily), it has a better camera and one can download and use apps. It’s also possible to personalise it more and the music syncing system with “itunes” is great. The screen is also bigger and better quality for watching movies and youtube, than on a blackberry.” Chaanah studied in Sydney, Beijing and Hangzhou, before working in London. She spoke Cantonese from birth and is a passionate dog lover. An avid traveler, she just visited Central America and New York.
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Tiknee, Recruitment “Having both the iphone for personal use and a blackberry for work, I am able to really compare and much prefer the iPhone! Its design features are simple and most of all, it is more fun to navigate!” Tiknee is from Malaysia but studied in Melbourne, before moving to Hong Kong to work. She enjoys hitting the beach on weekends.
STREET TALK
Will, Legal Assistant “Blackberry for sure. It’s smart, sleek and secure. It also gives the impression of being professional, unlike the iphone. Will is from Sydney and Hong Kong. He is qualifying as a barrister and in spare time, is a competitive boxer and runs a new Australian wine importing business.
Mark, Real Estate Broker “I use the iphone now because our company switched to the Exchange server, so everyone’s phasing out blackberrys and I.T. don’t give technical assistance to blackberry users anymore. I actually dislike the iphone though, I think the blackberry is still better for business. The blackberry battery lasts a lot longer and it’s easier to bash out emails on.” Mark is interested in wine appreciation and luxury cars. He attended University in the U.K. before returning to Hong Kong.
Farah, Interior Designer I prefer the blackberry personally because it’s more practical and there are fewer distractions. I use it for phone, messaging, bbm and sometimes the internet. With the iphone there are various different apps/ games you can download, a lot of which are quite pointless. The good thing about the iphone is that you can have your ipod and phone in one device, but that blackberry can be used for that as well. You need to purchase a memory card in order to carry more songs. The typing on the blackberry keys is a lot easier than the iphone touch screen. There are a lot of autocorrect typos that people encounter with the touch screen as opposed to the actual keyboard on the blackberry. BBM is also great for communicating with people locally and internationally, although, they are developing different programs on the iphone that provide the same functions. However, they’re also available to the blackberry and can be used to connect iphone users with blackberry users in a similar manner that bbm connects blackberry users. It seems that the blackberry is a better business phone and the iphone is more recreational.” Farah speaks Mandarin- learnt in childhood in Hong Kong- and besides interior design, she is interested in art collecting.
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Lean, Green, Racy Machine AERIS TALKS to Kevin Yu, Director of Tesla Motors Asia Pacific, about the electric convertible leading the road in speedy, sustainable, style.
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TECH
For those of us who aren’t in the know, how does an electric car actually work? Electric vehicles (EV’s) are really simple compared to a gasoline car. Inside a gasoline car, there are many thousands of moving parts – belts, gears, chains – all of which can break and require expensive periodic tune-up. Inside an electric car, there are much fewer moving parts – basically just a battery connected to a motor, through a very advanced computer. When you press the accelerator, it sends a signal to the computer to deliver power to the motor, which in turn spins the wheels. When you lift off the accelerator, the motor uses the deceleration of the vehicle to generate power, which is then stored by the battery for use. Charging is just as simple – just like an iPad– plug it in overnight to a normal wall socket and the car will be ready to go the next day.
Where can drivers find stations to charge up an electric car? Let’s start with Hong Kong. Most of our owners – well over three-quarters – simply the Roadster at home. They plug in the car at night. They literally just plug it into the wall, probably right next to their iPhone or iPad. Most garages in Hong Kong have a power plug and that doubles as an electric car plug. For users who don’t have a garage, there are 300 public charging stations in Hong Kong, which are ready to use, free of charge. By contrast, there are only 189 gasoline stations, so there are actually more EV charging stations than gas stations in Hong Kong. Electricity is everywhere here.
Did Tesla request the support of the government to get electric stations so widely available? As far as public infrastructure goes, Hong Kong did a lot before Tesla came. Hong Kong’s government has a scheme whereby the government will contribute well over one million(HK) dollars towards the purchase of the Roadster. If the
Roadster were a gasoline car, you would pay at least $2.1 million. Because it’s electric, you get $1 million off – for a total price of just $ 1.1 million. Hong Kong’s scheme is actually better than that in the US or Japan, where you pay the money first and then get it back as a rebate later. In Hong Kong, you receive the subsidy right off the bat. It’s more progressive than Singapore as well, which talks about implementing a lot of EV-friendly legislation. Hong Kong doesn’t talk about it too much, but they have actually implemented a lot more EV-friendly policies. Everyone asks ‘why Hong Kong, why not China - a larger market?’ The people of Hong Kong are progressive, as is their government. We’re definitely going to be in Hong Kong long-term.
How fast does the Tesla convertible Roadster go? The Tesla Roadster accelerates to 100 km/h in well under four seconds. It will out-accelerate super cars thatcost three to four times its price. It costs less to operate than a Toyota Prius. While it’s true that a Ferrari will out perform the roadster on a race track, in every day driving – especially up and down the
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TECH
Peak – the Roadster will run circles around any gasoline powered car. Also, the last time we checked, there aren’t any race tracks in Hong Kong. Tesla’s message to Hong Kong is simple: Buy the Roadster because it’s a better car at a better price – not simply because it’s Electric. We built the Roadster to show the world that an electric car can outperform any gasoline car, and do it for less.
How do you overcome brand obsession in Hong Kong- how easy is it to sway a Ferrari fan? The simple answer is that it’s hard to overcome. If a consumer is willing to pay $2 million more for a car that performs at a lower level than the Roadster – just for the sake of the brand – if it’s someone’s life ambition to own a Ferrari – it’s very difficult to overcome. They’ll basically pay any price for that brand. However, that doesn’t mean we do not work hard to convert each and every die hard Ferrari fan. We do this by getting people into the Roadster on a test drive. We let them drive the Roadster around Hong Kong, up and down the Peak, to Sai Kung and back, take it out and treat it as-if they were driving their Ferrari – that’s the only way to win over the die-hard ‘brand fans.’ Hard work, repeated day-in and day-out – that’s the only way a small company is going to succeed in changing the world. In the early days, we targeted people who wanted to go green at, any cost. Today, we are getting people who are young global, who want more than they could otherwise afford now; people who don’t want to compromise. We are seeing more young professionals, folks who can’t – or don’t want to – buy a Porsche or Ferrari, prefer something unique in any case, and who don’t want to pay millions of dollars in car taxes for the right to pollute and guzzle gas.
How much money would a driver save on petrol with an electric car and a charger, instead? It depends on how far you drive. If you drive 100km a day and you’re getting 5km per liter, you’re burning 20 liters of gasoline per day. That’s a mid-range sports car. Some super cars get much worse efficiency than that. 20 liters of gas in Hong Kong costs around $320. The equivalent amount of electricity to power a Tesla Roadster for 100km is
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$15. If you charge a free public charger, your cost would of course be even lower - $0.
That must mean it’s easier to manufacture? It’s definitely easier to manufacture in many ways, but the R&D that goes into the heart of the Roadster – the best battery in any EV today, the world’s most powerful EV motor, and the industry’s most advanced computer management system – is costly and takes time. It’s similar to the high-tech industry in Silicon Valley – a significant amount of the cost and complexity is up-front.
Playing devil’s advocate- skeptics have put forward that electric cars still use energy in other forms making
TESLA ELECTRIC ROADSTER
them less green than they appear…so how much energy does an electric car require and what percentage is efficiently used?
to everyone – it will be clear that EV’s are much much more green than even the most efficient hybrid vehicles on the road today, even when you take into account every step of the energy production cycle.
Back to our example. If you’re driving 100km a day in a gasoline car, you’re burning 20 liters of gasoline. 80% of that ultra-expensive gasoline is wasted as heat and literally goes up in smoke out the exhaust. That’s all waste. By contrast, let’s assume you use the same 20 liters of gasoline in a highly efficient modern power plant, of the type used in Hong Kong. When the same 20 liters of gasoline is burned at the power plant, you are seeing 80%+ efficiency – heat that is wasted in a car is recaptured, in turn heating water and turning a turbine to generate electricity. Pollution can also be captured or cleaned so that it never enters the environment. If you believe that a power plant can use fuel more efficiently than a car – and this should be obvious
How many kilometers can a Tesla electric car do before it needs to be re-charged? About 400 km - technically 394km, but it’s more natural to say about 400km.
31 Images Courtesy of Tesla
TRAVEL
Blazing Trails in Rural Cambodia the capital for US$25. For four Hong Kong-based executives and a Cambodian mechanic, the road less travelled began in Phnom Penh, a city famous for its French-inspired architecture, bustling street markets and motorcycle mayhem. The group paid US$150 each for Honda Baja 250cc trail bikes, loaded their bags with tools, spare parts and fuel, and mapped out the first day’s route over icy Tiger beers. Following dirt tracks and sun-scorched valleys, the group rode 90 miles west to reach the untamed, jungle-clad province of of Koh Kong. Day one witnessed accidents and injuries, with one rider breaking a wrist and two ribs. Defeated, he was taken to a logging road, piled into a lorry full of duriansand sent back to
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Already one man down, the riders soon met a raging river, un-crossable except by a makeshift platform, one rider misjudged his brakes and toppled a domino chain of motorcycles into the muddy water. Back on dry land, the bikes spat out a few turbercular-sounding coughs and eventually revved into life. With high spirits, and water in their tanks, the group rode on. At night, they camped on thetrails and were sometimes directed to local guest houses. It was rare to find a village with electricity or running water, but the villagers’ hospitality was limitless: there was always a traditional meal of chicken and rice to be found, as well as shelter from the searing heat. and created frequent delays.
The bikes took a hammering, but were strong enough to survive the rough terrain. The riders, too, did their fair share of 10 hour days in the saddle, often running low on water and feeling ever wary of land mines left over by the Khmer Rouge: a sobering reminder of the county’s troubled past, which rural Cambodians confront everyday. From Koh Kong, the group did a circular loop northwards, then south again, taking the long way down to Phnom Penh. The trip took five days, cost around US $300 each excluding flights, and demanded considerable off-road skill. The bumps and bruises will testify to that. BY SOPHIE BENT
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TRAVEL
Off-season Seclusion
Santorini BY GRACE BROWN
…a painfully romantic, rustic retreat where time has stood still- where life is, quite simply, for leisure. Yes, Greece is in something of a pickle –with almost every related news headline dominated by most un-leisurely ‘austerity.’ Yet while Athens may be austere, the islands could not be more carefree…
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A
s you fly across the glittering jewel-blue Mediterranean sea- into blinding golden rays of sunshine- one might wonder for a moment if they are travelling into the heavens. Then you see it- waves softly lapping against pebbly beaches in volcanic black and amber red; quaint old bars and restaurants and; clusters of charming white-painted villages, ascending endless miles of enchanting cliffs…
Evidently, there is no such thing as ‘schedule’ here, but before you know it, the well-fed man waves and waddles, gesturing (non-urgently, of course) to get your bags and begin your holiday. Sinuous, dusty roads with just a few showy motorbikes and lazy carts pave the desolate cliffs, with breath taking ocean views hundreds of meters below to the right and arid vineyards to the left. Oleander trees sway slowly in the breeze, like sirens in a dance.
“Welllllcome…to Saan-to-rrr-inii…” a vague, female voice coos, as weary tourists crowd the quirky, disorganised one-room airport. “You must take picture,” a solemn, well-fed, tanned man orderspassports may be checked too, if anyone remembers... Frustratingly, the endless queues are not -as it transpires- for any particular purpose... Yet as olive and fig trees rustle contently in the wind outside, it’s easy to forgive the ridiculousness of Santorini’s airport and even see the idle charm in it.
Of the many enticing tavernas to choose from, we highly recommend one- Villa Mathios. The small, family run hotel sits right on the spectacular Caldera Cliffs- less populated in autumn, albeit slightly windier. White villas surround the alluring turquoise stone swimming pools, allowing for both privacy and company. “Do not eat outside,” insists Costa, the manager. “The best is at Mamas”- the hotel’s one restaurant.
Costa certainly knows where it’s at. The spanakopita is flat, flaky and full of salty feta- andspinach flavour. The prawns- simmered fragrantly in tomato, garlic and olive oil- were equally warming. Mama raises her game further, with a magnificent Mousaka bursting with tomato, rich mince meat, eggplant, sweet potato, spinach, onions and a creamy sauce, which accompanied by several obligatory glasses of red- is when one must drunkenly nod, “the best is at Mamas.” Avoid tourist-town Thira for dining, where local classics are often butchered by American additions (such as yellow mayo squirted liberally over your Greek salad). That said, Thira is stunning to explore by motorbike or moped at sunset (provided one drives carefully) - and a late afternoon gelato or aperitif overlooking the Mediterranean can’t go amiss! Thira also boasts classy little bars and glamourous clubs with some of Europe’s finest DJs, amid cultured company and sultry views of the sea and stars. While Villa Mathios serves complimentary breakfast until 10, we suggest sleeping in and enjoying a traditional bowl of Greek yoghurt and fresh fruit drizzled with honey by the pool in the morning sun.
After hours of leisurely bathing, try the succulent shish kebabs and fresh Greek salads- with soft, creamy feta, ripe tomatoes, seasoned cucumber and dark, juicy olives, drenched in vinegar, olive oil and salt (be sure to mop the flavor up with fresh baked bread...). 20-minutes away is red Akrotiri beach, with cool, sparkling rock pools that are particularly inviting after the steep walk down. It also has several small restaurants that let you dine in the middle of the sea, by a thin bridge connecting your table in the ocean to the inconspicuous kitchen, serving up scrumptious seafood and fresh fish, grilled to lemony-light perfection. Another 30 minutes away (by motorbike) is the romantic seaside town of Kamari, on the long, black beach, with jet-ski tours, a vibrant night market and an array of little bars and restaurants. Watch the sunset over a bowl of marinated muscles, creamy fava beans (similar to hummus, but smoother), warm pita bread and a few chilled glasses of white… Sure, book a return flight- but wanderer be warned- you may well wonder ‘why bother going back?’
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FASHION
{
Embracing the Wet Season
WaterProofCHIC }
Models: Helene LeClerc, Alex Yen Photographer: Joyce Yung Hair and Makeup: Ka Lam (Kalamakeup)
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Embrace the elements this typhoon season with water-resistant fabrics and accessories (think nylon and acrylic), uplifting umbrellas, bright raincoats and water-loving wellington boots.
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FASHION
b
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In the wise words of Brian Molko:
“the more you dress up, the more fun you’ll have!” Waterproof-chic your wardrobe and you’ll splash through every puddle with self-satisfied enjoyment...
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This Page a: Plastic and gold bangle (by Kate Spade) b: Protective i-phone case (by Kate Spade) c: Acrylic black and gold ring (by Kate Spade) d: Rainylong (by AIGLE) e: Chantebelle pop-up purple (by Liberty of London, at AIGLE)
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EMBRACING THE WET SEASON
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This Page f: Parcours Botillon Bronze for men (by Liberty of London, at AIGLE) g: Shortpack for men (by AIGLE) h: Denise Wedge in Gentleman Olive (by Tory Burch) i: Enamel Flip Flop in Tory Navy and Utopia Print (by Tory Burch) j: Eddie pump, in Musk (by Tory Burch) k: City Tote in Marine Blue (by Tory Burch) l: Robinson E-Tablet Case in French Red (by Tory Burch)
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X
The collaboration between Jean Paul Gaultier and La Perla has reached a new, creative chapter, with an exclusive collection that brings the sunbathing seduction and couture beachwear to the lingerie world. The signature theatrical style of Jean Paul Gaultier combined with the “body know-how� of La Perla has led to an intriguing new range of elastic one pieces resembling grosgrain- one of the classic elements in the construction of the haute couture- and a small selection of swimsuits inspired by bondage style.
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Images Courtesy of La Perla
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“Calm” by Sarah Bent
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Above, Right :
“Harmony one and Harmony two,” Below, Right :
“Balance” by Sarah Bent
Living in Hong Kong for over 30 years, Sarah is a self-taught watercolour artist. She specialises in botanical and still-life paintings, many of which feature the flora and fauna of Asia. Her artwork can be viewed at the Artists Abroad Exhibition “Festival”, to be held at The Rotunda, Exchange Square, Hong Kong, from 9th-15th September 2011. “The theme of this year’s exhibition, “Festival”, has offered great scope for artistic expression and individuality,” said Sarah, chairperson of Artists Abroad. “The Mid-Autumn Festival lends itself to bold hues, rich textures and diverse subject
For more information, please visit : www.sarahwatercolours.com www.artistsabroadhk.com for enquiries, please contact: sarahbent26@yahoo.com
matters, including scenes of historic and modern Hong Kong, autumn fruits and flowers, and abstracts encompassing all the colours of celebration.” Sponsored by RBS Coutts
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ART
Value in the Eye of the Holder
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VALUE IN THE EYE OF THE HOLDER
AERIS TALKS to Elizabeth Lau, the 23year old Gallery Curator at State of the Arts, Hong Kong, about valuing art pieces young investors like, versus pieces their portfolio might need.
What is the first thing that guides the price you determine for a painting in your gallery? Where the artist was exhibited before- a history of good galleries and art fairs will increase the value naturally. We also assess how rare the product isthe more work they produce, the less commercially valuable each piece becomes. Alternatively, the more tightly controlled the supply of those artworks, the higher the price goes- let’s say if the artist is bound by exclusive contracts with other galleries…a Hong Kong gallery might approach a new, unique artist, only to be warned by a New York gallery that the artist is already ‘theirs’ exclusively and pre-reserved their latest works.
That’s interesting, from an anti-trust perspective…
PAUL LEMMOM, Mars and Venus top right: The sound of the crowd 120x120cm Oil on canvas ,2008 bottom left: Upper Westside 190 x 140 cm, oil on canvas, 2008 bottom right: Mirador 60cm x 60cm Oil on canvas, 2008
Yes- it’s interesting. It’s possible to have a pseudomonopoly on an artist by virtue of exclusive agreements- both parties benefit because that drives up the value. If one gallery specializes in hyperrealist art, they tend to get all the hyperrealist artists… Hyperrealist art is quite unique by nature, as it takes a very long time to reproduce, so production lag times are long and artists make fewer of them.
What is hyperrealist art? It’s essentially a painting so realistic that at first glance, it could be a photograph. Given though that photographs are very quick and simple to reproduce, their value isn’t anywhere near as high as a painting that looks like one. It’s also distinguished from narrative and emotive when compared to photorealistic. They do not just imitate photographic images, but present objects ‘more real’ than reality by transcending limitations of cameras and human vision.
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Arts
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VALUE IN THE EYE OF THE HOLDER
It’s funny how the kind of art involving the most precision and least creativity is the most valuable. It’s simple supply and demand. Take these expressionist paintings for example- they are about emotion. The brushstrokes are imprecise and quick, to capture the ‘mood’ of a moment or place in time. These are much faster to reproduce, so they are easier for galleries to access, but less valuable in terms of retail price, yes.
CRISTINA BLANCH top: Walking around the SOHO 50 X 150 CM Acrylic on canvas, 2010 middle: Kate 50 x 150 cm Acrylic on canvas, 2010 bottom right: Armani 50 x 150 cm Acrylic on canvas, 2010
That said- expressionist art must be valuable in other ways? Absolutely- it’s what lures young buyers in. Hyperrealism is less exciting to look at. It’s not dynamic or imaginative. Put that in the store window and less young people will walk in. Realist art can be more visually appealing and because its intended to be what the artist sees, so there’s a subjective element, which could be made to look very contemporary e.g. by including a busy street or brands of today. Cristina Blanch’s painting is ‘realistic’ as she paints what she sees in real life, with lots of life-like detail. Going back to the ‘enticement’ value of expressionist art, young buyers tend to prefer a painting that gives them multiple options for interpretation- not one. This generation likes options, which to them makes some art more intellectually and emotionally engaging. Unlike Blanch, Paul Lemmon- an expressionist- is more into omitting the background, cropping and manipulating colors of the scene to capture the mood…Take Lemmon’s recent work featured in our ‘Mars and Venus’ collection this September-
Cars, women…it’s sexyPrecisely, plus the expressionism makes it seem cinematic, like a moving picture. That dynamic appearance appeals to the new generation. We want to make our gallery as accessible and friendly to young people as possible, because they’re the buyers with the spending power now…and eventually they can be introduced to hyperrealist art, too.
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FOOD
Shaken
AERIS chats to Vishal Kharga - one of Hong Kong’s top mixologists- about pushing flavor boundaries, while pleasing a Chinese palate.
How long have you been in the game for? 8-9 years, beginning as a part time bar back, before becoming a bartender, then bar Manager.
What is the key to keeping your customers interested? Turning a classic around with a simple, modern twist. For example, most people have heard of Apple Martinis, but when you add a hint of chili to that, it’s fresh and exciting again. You have to keep them guessing.
Where did you learn how to innovate and balance flavours?
Flirtini
Nothing is as good an indulgence as the slushy, creamy, luscious combination of fresh gorgeously textured Raspberries and thirst quenching juices combined with aromatic complexity of Raspberry Vodka, Shaken and served...
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I trained with one of the first mixologists (who is also a gastronomist), Eben Freeman, in New York. Every week he challenged us to come up with 6 new combinations, so we had to push past conventional limits.
What was your most unusual combination? Most unusual? Probably a cucumber martini. The base is of course vodka, tasteless, odourless...anything added destined to be absorbed as the flavour. A Chinese girl requested it, but knowing the Chinese like something semisweet, I added Lychee too. We now serve this concoction here at Halo.
MIXOLOGY
+ Stirred Is there a distinctly Chinese cocktail palate you cater towards?
Yes- most of my clients are Chinese, so I bear this in mind. The Chinese prefer wellbalanced, semi-fruity cocktails. Not too sour, not too sweet. It’s about being balanced and harmonious…ying and yang. For example, we make a drink here called ‘Kettle Fresh’ which balances sweet mango with tart celery. And then there’s the Cinnamon Flame, which is wonderfully complex because of the cinnamon, with a touch of sweetness from pear vodka, brought together with champagne.
How do you know what your customers want? Interaction, intuition and experience.
Would you say the Chinese are more discerning Cocktail drinkers? Yes, especially the ladies. Often, they don’t want to read the whole menu- that’s where we come in. You have to introduce them to new things verbally- describe it, highlight it. You also have to keep pushing the boundaries to create something that’s still new and therefore, impressive.
What are three ingredients you can’t live without? A sugar syrup, lime and lemon. I don’t consider alcohol an ingredient, it’s a base. The ratio should always be 2 : 1.5. 2 times base, 1.5 times flavour. If you screw up the drink, it’s because you screwed up the ratio.
Cinnamon Flame
Adventurous, tangy, overwhelming sense of aromas. A state of perfection, a touch of sweetness. Wonderful flavor, dry and lengthy, with complexity of cinnamon. A beautiful knock out set of elegant Pear Vodka and a pour of champagne, makes it an exceptionally perfumed and seductively gorgeous sip.
Vishal is the General Manager at Halo bar, 10 Stanley Street, Central Hong Kong.
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FOOD
Riding a Tidal Wave By Grace Brown
Sushi Kuu is an upmarket, contemporary Japanese restaurant and prominent sake bar in Hong Kong’s downtown financial centre- “where young professionals go to chill out,” says Edward Pown, the Assistant manager. AERIS explores how one Japanese Restaurant’s nimble supply strategy led to survival of the Tsunami and its shocking aftermath…
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RIDING A TIDAL WAVE
Acting Fast- and Ahead Compared to some Japanese companies and government officials, Sushi Kuu acted decisively and promptly. “We stopped importing from the affected Northern region including Tokyo immediately. We switched supply to the South, from Hokkaido and Kyushu, which were not affected.” Did having Chinese management create a faster decision making culture? “Perhaps,” smiles Edward slightly. “I think we were just lucky.” Sushi Kuu also acted ahead of time, by reducing their dependence on Japanese produce by diversifying their supply early on, with several specialty items also coming from New Zealand (such as scampi) and Australia (such as Toro). “We still import most things from Japan though, with daily shipments of all our staple ingredients- mackerel, scallops, yellowtail tuna...etc”
Younger customers “more pragmatic”
Were young clients nervous about eating sashimi after the Tsunami? “Initially yes, but sooner or later, most of our frequent customers were more pragmatic about it,” mused Edward. “They just called up and asked ‘where do you source from?’ When we reassured them that our seafood is now all from the South of Japan, that was generally enough to reassure them that logically, it was safe. Older customers were a little more nervous and less proactive though. So while we were still in business, our business was still affected…” recalled Edward solemnly. “Revenues fell by approximately 30%. It was
quieter…Now though, we are doing better than ever- busier even than before the crisis.”
Supply “changed, not diminished” When asked which products were the worst hit by the Tsunami aftermath and nuclear trepidation between March and May, Edward recalled: “Aside from seafood, sake was another big one- several plants were completely destroyed up North. But really, all produce- including seafood and sake- was still largely available elsewhere. The supply of our inputs was changed, not diminished, at least from our perspective as restaurant. Of course as a result, our supplies became costlier...”
Contemporary, creative service “’Kuu’ means to eat casuallyto just forget manners and enjoy good food, grabbing more of the young professional crowd in fast-paced lives looking to unwind with friends after work.” So while Executive Chef, Satoru, may be a traditionally trained Master from Japan, he serves everything up with a “young, very modern flair and immaculate presentation,” Edward proudly observes. Satoru is the inventor of such contemporary culinary delights as rice burgers (tender, juicy beef burgers served in rice crackers) as well as seasonal tasting menus- Omakase- of new dishes unique to Sushi Kuu. “Creativity is key to surviving in any crisis,” Edward acknowledges, “but it’s also at the heart of everything we have always done here- we can only be indispensible by being different.”
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PERSPECTIVE
Jonathan Hursh
Compassion for Migrant Children
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COMPASSION FOR MIGRANT CHILDREN
Last year, I found myself sloshing through sewer-infested water up to the thighs after a deluge of rain hit a migrant community I was visiting in Shanghai. The community was tucked away in a pocket within the city and the forces of economics had pushed the poorest into the lowest lying areas of the district. Migrants sat and watched as we sloshed our way past them, creating ripples that traced into their homes through the open doors. The ripples reminded me of the never ceasing waves of challenges to an individual’s humanity that begins when one leaves their ancestral village to become a migrant worker in a city filled with painstaking labor.
People often ask me how I ended up in China after growing up quite comfortably in the southern part of America. Back home, I can speak the native language, I had family, friends, a car, and well-paying job opportunities. Why China? Why start up a NGO to help the migrant children of
China? Quite simply, I saw the need, felt the pull of responsibility to help my fellow human beings and have never looked back. My desire to participate in building civil society and helping the needy started at the age of 13 when I went to Central America as a volunteer to help build a simple sewer system for a local impoverished community which only had a basic infrastucture. Come to think of it, I’m not sure how much my pre-pubescent undeveloped muscles and squeaky voice contributed to the efforts. But I worked with what I had. I did my part to mix the cement and carry the buckets of sand. It was sweaty, it was dirty, and it was mundane. It was glorious. By the end of the week, we had aching muscles and the community had a sewer system that allowed them the dignity of a working toilet. The poor taught me many lessons through these volunteer opportunities. Working alongside them I saw that despite the class, caste or geographic location that we were fortunately (or unfortunately) born into, we are all the same. Each of us hope for a possibility to brighten our future. And this was just the start of many such volunteer opportunities I had to learn from the poor. By the age of 18, these experiences had taken me to the red light district in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia to dress the open wounds of dying HIV-positive patients, to the Indonesian Island of Madura to teach English, and to Thailand to build a rehabilitation center for drug users. Our team slept in tents for two months during the monsoon season in the mountains of northern Thailand as we attempted to build a rehabilitation center for drug users. We didn’t get much built but it was yet another step in my own journey with the poor and realization of my responsibility to society. So here I found myself in Shanghai years later, sloshing through water up to my
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PERSPECTIVE
thighs in a migrant community. I was in the migrant community because I had started an organization in China in early 2006 to serve migrant children and their communities. At the time, we were exploring whether to expand our services to Shanghai, where we now have a community center for the migrants. The organization, Compassion for Migrant Children (CMC), started in my small Beijing apartment and has since grown from one person and 10,000 RMB to 6 community centers in Beijing and Shanghai. Over the last two years alone, we have consistently served over 6,600 migrants (indirectly impacting 14,000). We plan to open and help others open 25 community centers over the coming decade. But this number is just a drop in the bucket compared to the millions of migrant children in China. It is currently estimated that there are over 250 million migrant workers in China and that number is expected to more than double in the next couple of decades. We have our work cut out for us and we are focused and committed to the task. So, back to the original question I am often asked: why did I start this organization in China and not somewhere else? Why not somewhere with a simpler, non-tonal language? Somewhere like India? Very simply, a friend took me to a migrant community and school in the outskirts of Beijing in 2005. I saw a need and I responded to it. I had already been in China for a couple of years, first, to study the language, and then, to work in a large non-profit organization. At the time, I knew I wanted to commit myself to working for the poor and vulnerable but I was still unsure of my exact direction. After my first visit to this particular migrant community, I was deeply touched. Over the following five months of restless nights, I knew I had found my direction. Much to the surprise (and possibly, trepidition) of my girlfriend, I quit my well-paid, secure job and set about to serve the migrant children. The images and emotions from that first walk through the migrant village and school are still as vivid as ever – open sewers; children wandering around aimlessly
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with no adult supervision; dilapidated housing; and, most importantly, the children’s warm smiles and eagerness to learn more about the world around them. I could see the hope and future in their eyes and knew that I wanted to be a part of helping them shape their future. I am one of the most fortunate people in the world. I get to wake up each day and do what I love to do. I get to see children straining with all enthusiasm towards their future, with all the hopes and fears and dreams that are wrapped up in any child. I am constantly surrounded by a curious, passionate, dedicated and capable team whom I learn from and have the privilege of leading. Over 90% of our 25 full-time staff and 1,000 annual volunteers are local Chinese and all the directors are Chinese except me. It is truly moving and inspiring to see the team giving 110% to their fellow Chinese brothers and sisters. I am humbled that they have allowed me to serve the migrants alongside them and to work together towards a more inclusive society. A Civil Affairs official and I were dreaming together with excitement about the organization one day being able to send our Chinese staff to assist in migrant slums in other parts of the world. We dream that China would be able to take her experiences with migrant communities and share this with others who are struggling with the same issues. As I was in the hotel shower scrubbing off the grime that accompanied me back from the thigh-high slosh through sewer-infested water in the Shanghai migrant community, I cheerfully thought to myself how wonderful it was to be able to come back to a clean hotel room. Then I remembered that for the migrants themselves, it was not
COMPASSION FOR MIGRANT CHILDREN
just a foray or one-day experience. At that very moment they were going to sleep in a few feet of water in the dark that night and, quite possibly, for many nights to come. I believe that the challenges facing migrants living in the world’s slums are of such a scale that it may require a radical response from those who are willing to sacrifice to see change brought about. And those who are willing to give up the comforts of life to understand how they might better serve migrants and their families may have to sleep in the water if need be – and they must never, never never quit. Migrants and other poor around the world hunger and thirst for a just system that rightfully responds to their contributions and values the dignity of their lives. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for their time is coming.
Jonathan Hursh is the founder and director of Compassion for Migrant Children and the Migrant Resource Network, both based in China. For more information, please visit:
http://www.cmc-china.org or http://www.mrn-china.org
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FASHION
TimelessTime Bv Sneha Roy
‘Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days
Asia’s consumer demands range from trend to trend, but one thing stays the same and that is the thirst for elegant, yet cutting-edge pieces. Originally from Schaffhausen, IWC does not just represent a sleek watch to catch our eyes, but also effortlessly built- in functionality. The Portofino Chronograph- inspired by the classic appeal of a 1960’s Italian sports car- is a fine example of this balance. Perhaps it’s the alligator straps cradling the top and bottom of the round contour of the Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days. The fine, yet firm leather straps are the fruit of a strategic partnership with high-end Italian shoe manufacturer, Santoni, who represents premier leather quality, recognisable from their signature orange-coloured lining. In an otherwise ostentatious Asian watch market, the two houses have cracked the growing niche for understated luxury. Giuseppe Santoni is the second generation to manage Santoni and a long-standing collector of IWC watches. He notes that the collaboration has proven effective because the two houses share similar corporate values. “IWC Schaffhausen has proved an ideal partner for us, sharing our philosophy of excellence, perfection such as Portofino Chronograph
Portofino Automatic
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TIMELESS TIME- IWC
IWC’s partner- Italian leather shoemaker Santoni -is renowned for its elegant, handmade shoes. One of the most popular models is the men’s shoe Wilson 7478 with its iconic Santoni double buckle.
meticulous attention to detail, and our love of craftsman ship and beauty.” Or if you’re more a metal fan, the refreshing and secure Milanese mesh surrounding the wrist with a Portofino Automatic. The push-buttons grace one edge of the watch with their functions varied- measured and molded to the millimeter. Beyond aesthetics, IWC has created a true timepiece that is optimally functional. The stopwatch display is perfectly aligned adjacent to the 12 o’clock with 30-minute counter and the 12 hour counter at 6 o’clock. This spectacular watch runs on the 79320 calibre, synonymous with accuracy and with a power reserve of 44 hours. Like I said… Beautiful and functional.
Santoni owes its position in the upper luxury segment to its unique and highly complex sewing and dyeing techniques. In cooperation with IWC Schaffhausen, this expertise has been extended to the leather straps for the Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days.
Many watch companies make a bigger, golder or glossier watch.That is not the goal of IWC. They encapsulate excellence in the craft of watch making- and the art of being timeless. Demand for these watches is set to grow, with several new IWC stores in Hong Kong already- suggesting increasing interest and loyalty shown by young Chinese for a watch that will be stylish for generations. ‘Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days
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ART
ON WHEELS BMW featuring the art of Jeff Koons, for a cause What do you get when you combine a mature brand with a modern artist? A classic revamped for a new generation of car and art lovers. Since 1975, Bayerische Motoren Werke has occasionally invited its cars to be used as canvases by artists including Andy Warhol, who painted the M1 Group 4 racer in 1979. This year, Jeff Koons adorned the BMW M3 GTS, which competed in the 24 Hours of LeMans on June 12th, using a palette of bright colours and bold streaks to create a visual outcome that makes the car look fast, even when still. The car appeared in Hong Kong’s BMW showroom on June 28th, alongside an auction of BMW Upcycling Furniture Art Pieces, made from recycled BMW parts. The proceeds of the auction went to a locally supported charity and a scholarship for Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design as a result of the partnership between BMW and Quintessentially Foundation. “It’s refreshing” said Orla Gilroy, Managing Director of the Quintessentially Foundation Asia. “This collaboration benefits all parties and demonstrates their commitment to corporate social responsibility.” It seems traditional brands can capture the attention of young, affluent, socially conscious spenders by staying fresh with strategic collaborations- a trend likely to increase as Asia’s young rich club expands.
6 0 Courtesy of BMW and the Quintessentially Foundation Images
Try something new and exciting on Friday nights with State-of-the-Arts Foundation! Enjoy fine wine tasting and art appreciation at the same time, while expanding your personal network and meet like-minded art lovers. Talk Program 2011 Identity of Hong Kong Art
(30/09 6:30-8:00p.m.)
What is the creation of Western colonization and our Chinese background? Speaker: Dr. Stella Tang, artist, curator & editor
Certified Copy
(28/10 6:30-8:00p.m.)
Examine works by masters of art. Should artists copy? Speaker: Clementine Chan, local artist
Winter Special: Vanity, or Not
(28/11 6:30-8:00p.m.)
Meet world-renowned Scottish painter and the celebrity, fame, money and greed portrayed in his works Speaker: Stuart McAlpine Miller, Scottish painter
Sign up for your Wine & Art Evening before it is full. Seats are limited. Please contact Elizabeth Lau at elizabeth@sotafoundation.com or (852) 2526 1133 for details or reservation. We look forward to seeing you. Visit www.sotafoundation.com for more information on membership 1/F, 36 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong
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If it matters to Asia’s dynamic youth, it’s in
AERIS magazine.
www.aerismagazine.com
CHAN YU James Dean with Treble Meanings No. 6 Acrylic on Canvas
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Courtesy of Connoisseur Contemporary