l Kindness
The healing component.
l Lexus LF-30
Concept reimagined.
l Fear of God Fashion as cfaft.
l Ginaissance
The love of gin.
l A Classic evolution Converse update.
l Real Talk
The art of speech.
When kindness is the
AThe new dawn evokes a new awareness for kindness.
‘If you can be anything, be kind’ – A sentence that has been prominent throughout the last 12 months for reasons close to our hearts and also presented to us from around the world. It's been a tough time for many, but kindness has become the key.
The quote ‘If you can be anything, be kind’ originates from the last social media post that Caroline Flack made before her death. It was simple but significant. It was a cry for help due to the tabloid war she found herself in regarding her relationship and TV career. She tragically took her own life on the 15th of February 2020 after leaving the world with a strong message. As a result, it has become the mantra within the social media world to remind people that their words do hold meaning and do have consequences. No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.
The world has changed a lot, and so have we. The things people used to consider little are now the big things that make a
Be kind to yourselves and others.
difference. Political conflict in the UK and around the world, topics of saving our natural environments for ourselves and the animals and ecosystems we live alongside; followed by the social unrest of race relations, and the tragic deaths of many people from George Floyd to Sarah Everard have sparked a new awareness of kindness and its importance.
The list of unfortunate events goes on, however. They have all triggered a response in kindness. It's a tragedy in itself that incidents have to occur for kindness to be highlighted globally in this way. Kindness is a positive
Insane level of
The LF-30 Electrified concept vehicle embodies the “Lexus Electrified” vision. For its exterior styling the advanced image expected of a BEV has been channeled into artistic qualities that result in a futuristic form, and an interior that assertively weaves in autonomous driving and other new technologies aims to manifest Lexus’ distinctive worldview.
Performance is rooted in Lexus Electrified components, adding Lexus’ latest technology to our leadership in development of HEV systems. Precise electric motor control enables instantaneous adjustments to posture not possible with conventional vehicles.
Furthermore, the LF-30 Electrified employs numerous advanced technologies with a look ahead to the year 2030- such as a new-concept cockpit based on a human-centered design philosophy and a steer-by-wire system.
Futuristic exterior
In taking up the challenge of expressing a new design that could only be achieved with a BEV powered by in-wheel electric motors, Lexus visually articulated the LF-30 Electrified’s
unique energy flow. The vehicle form is meant to visually express the energy created by the wheels set at the corners of the vehicle body streaming toward the vehicle cabin and past the driver to directly flow onto the road surface.
Taking advantage of a hoodless vehicle shape made possible by being a BEV, Lexus’ signature “spindle” form has been further evolved to span the entire vehicle architecture. The window glass, which continually stretches from the front to rear, the muscular fenders, and the wing-shaped headlights form the contours of the Lexus iconic spindle.
Lexus
Clear vision: A glass roof above the rear seats features voice control and a gesture controlled “SkyGate” display window that uses AR to display various types of information, such as a realistic star-filled sky, user-favorite videos, and even navigation.
In addition to its unique design, the interior also indicates the direction of next-generation luxury by using sustainable materials to reduce environmental burden. Yakisugi (charred cedar), a traditional Japanese material, is used in the floor and steering controller while recycled metal was processed into fibers for use in creating the pleated door trim. This approach expresses Lexus’ distinctiveness and innovative spirit.
Handling: To achieve a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment, the LF-30 employs numerous state-ofthe-art technologies even beyond advanced posture control. In-wheel electric motors for each of the vehicle’s four wheels and low positioning of the battery enable better handling of inertia and high-level driving performance. Autonomous driving technologies and drone support vehicle technologies look ahead to the year 2030 and the widely expanded value that vehicles can offer.
Lexus LF-30
Onboard AI distinguishes the voices of vehicle occupants, and uses personalized information stored on the driver’s control key to serve as a partner.
It facilitates the adjustment of elements of the interior environment, such as air temperature and audio, and the setting of navigation routes and destinations, while also making proposals for activities after arrival. It also understands driver’s preferences and helps them control the suspension and powertrain settings in real-time according to the driving scene.
Manoeuvreability: The steer-by-wire system eliminates a mechanical connection to allow more flexible turning control depending on driving conditions, and a more precise steering feel aligned with the driver’s intention. It also contributes to a greater sense of openness by allowing the steering controller can be shifted forward and out of the way during autonomous driving.
Lexus
Fear of
God
Fear of God is an independent American luxury fashion label, founded in 2013 in Los Angeles by Jerry Lorenzo. Crafting timeless, wearable garments, the brand’s distinct interpretation of the American expression has become an emblem of contemporary culture.
fresh
Credible Celebrated by streetwise celebs like Zendaya and Ja Rule, Fear of God follows its own path.
The brand name Fear of God stems from Lorenzo’s deep religious background and is inspired explicitly by Oswald Chambers’ devotional book My Utmost for His Highest.
Jerry Lorenzo was interested in how the book ‘Utmost for His Highest’ described a God surrounded by darkness, which made the entire concept aesthetic by nature.
Style
Jerry Lorenzo tells a multidimensional story through its distinctive style.
Effortless
Aiming to strike the perfect balance between effortless and appropriate
The Ginaissance Period
Uncovering the fascination - Mandy Willson Telford.
Approximately 300 years ago Gin made its first appearance (in a primitive form) here in England. In 1714 it made it into the Oxford dictionary.
Since its humble beginnings, it has enjoyed a chequered history and conjures up many images. For some, it will forever be synonymous with the debauched Hogarth painting. Others see the glamour of Martinis in the Savoy. It has dipped in and out of fashion with reliable frequency.
Up until just before the start of this century, there were just 3 main brands. Beefeater, at the time the only gin distillery within the City of London, Gordons and Bombay Sapphire. During the 80s and 90s Gin was down on its luck and Vodka was calling all the shots (pardon the pun).
Then, in 1999, along came Hendricks with its soft rose and green notes. Served with cucumber and not the obligatory lemon wedge. Martin Millers with its secret ingredient (cucumber) and distilled using pure Icelandic water followed
soon after. Hendricks with its apothecarystyle bottle was popular with bartenders but it was not until 2008 that it took off with the general public. At this time, Gin had not yet experienced its renaissance period. This was to come in 2009, when a small relatively unknown micro-distillery challenged the current law of not allowing the use of a still that had a capacity lower than 1800lts. This law had been in place for nearly 200 years, created because British tax officials were fed up with illegal distillers who would use small portable stills to make a quick getaway if needed. Sipsmith’s, a 3-man band, decided this should change, and in 2009, after 2 years of lobbying HMRC they were granted a licence to create their gin using the 300lt copper pot still that they named Prudence. The rest is history and the reason here in the UK we are now littered with micro-distilleries and have hundreds of gins to choose from.
I first became interested in Gin back in 2007 when I began working as a taster for the
u
Gin note: Gin is English, not Dutch. Genever, a malted spirit that is essentially light whisky with juniper, is the juniper distillate of the Netherlands. Gin was developed in London and is a unique and much purer spirit.
Our gin connoisseur speaks...
In 1714 ‘Gin’ it made it into the Oxford dictionary.
multinational beverage company, Diageo. During the 7 years I worked for them, I saw the gin market explode from literally a handful of brands, to the 100s we can buy today. It is hard to believe how quickly things changed. Gin itself has evolved beyond recognition. I watched with amusement when marketing experts, on an episode of The Apprentice, stated coloured gin was an absolute non-starter, it would never catch on. Magellan Gin is blue, naturally coloured with iris flowers. Some years ago, the distillers decided to omit the colour and sales dropped dramatically. Unsurprisingly it was reintroduced quickly. You can now buy Yellow, Pink, Green, Violet and, even colour changing Gin. Some, gimmicky but others, delectable. I am a sucker for a delicately coloured Gin in a beautiful glass bottle.
At the end of the day, for me, Juniper should always be the dominant flavour with supporting botanicals like Coriander, Angelica Liquorice, Orris root, and Citrus just behind and then, a hint of the more unique or unusual additions. Hendricks and Millers have got this right, as have Brockmans (berry), Tanqueray Rangpur (lime), Malfy Rosa (grapefruit), and Opihr (spice). Sacred Spirits also have a range of spotlight gins. They are also superb. The Cardamom variant, my particular favourite. One, that in my opinion has got it wrong, is Hoxton. Its heavy coconut and vanilla profile has more in common with a bottle of Malibu. This is, I must emphasize, just my opinion. It
is very drinkable as a stand-alone spirit, but the juniper is hard to find. It does not have the expected aroma or flavour of a Gin. Many of the fruity pink Gins have also gone down this route, almost evolving from the alcopops of the 90s. They have their place, but they are not for me. Tanqueray No Ten will always be in my top 3 ‘real’ Gins. The vibrant green Art Deco bottle is simply stunning. It would look right at home in an episode of Agatha Christie’s Poirot. It makes the absolute best Martinis. Distilled 4 times with a Juniper lead, Coriander, Liquorice, earthy Angelica, Citrus, and Chamomile. So much going on; all in perfect harmony. Multiaward-winning No.3 London Gin is up there too. A beautifully designed turquoise bottle, with the iconic key, smooth enough to drink on its own. Finally, the one that challenged the law and paved the way for all the craft/micro-distilleries we have now, Sipsmith. Like Tanqueray Ten and No.3 London Gin, it is another multi-awardwinning, classic Gin, with its almost unique ‘One Shot’ distillation method. Dominant, dry Juniper closely followed by bold citrus, then spice. What more could you wish for?
This current Gin craze shows no signs of slowing and in 2019 sales were predicted to increase by 37% by the start of this year. I think we will see Gins with more unusual flavour profiles arriving from faraway lands, and, maybe some of the less popular or Gimmicky Gins disappearing altogether as distilleries decide which to keep and which to cull. I can’t wait to see what surprises this year will bring.
do you know your gin facts? From the origin of the spirit to its most famous imbibers, there’s much to know about this beguiling beverage. www.sipsmith.com
Converse Evolved
Founded in 1908 by Mr Marquis Mills Converse in Malden, Massachusetts, the Converse Rubber Company spent its formative years doing what most of the industry were doing at the time - Really anything you could make out of rubber.
An American classic with no limits.
fresh eye Sneaker
Run Star Hike Platform
A chunky platform and jagged rubber sole put an unexpected twist on your everyday Chucks. Details like a canvas build, rubber toe cap and Chuck Taylor ankle patch stay true to the original, while a molded platform, two-tone outsole and rounded heel give off futuristic vibes.
Chuck Taylor All Star Classic
The most iconic, ever – now available in wide width. The OG basketball shoe, created over 100 years ago. Converse’s Chuck Taylor All Star is the original basketball sneaker, adored by players and punks, style savants and street urchins alike. It’s also a silhouette that has branched out into many different models, all of which share classic Chuck DNA but add their own performance features.
The Pokémon x Converse collaboration
These Chuck Taylor All Star Easy-On for toddlers come in Pikachu and Jigglypuff options.
Bride Custom Wedding Converse
To create the ultimate pair of Wedding Converse, add Swarovski jewels to the toes. Each jewel to applied by hand to the Converse to create your perfect wedding Converse!
Converse Run Star Motion Platform
ULTIMATE UTILITY. An evolution of the most popular platform ever, the Run Star Hike, the new Run Star Motion takes your style even further. Extra durable fabrics like ballistic nylon and ripstop come together with a bold, exaggerated midsole and wavy midsole detailing for a truly unique look.
Real Talk
The art of conversation, like any art, combines practiced skill, style, and a certain elegance of delivery. Thirty years after the invention of the world wide web, it is evident that this art has but a tenuous online presence.
The digital age of texting has not ushered in a renaissance of brilliant conversation. Instead, social media has created a stupefying disconnect resulting in a poverty of nuance and decorum.
While some connoisseurs of conversation have adapted, as seen with cleverly crafted tweets, scroll to the comment section, and find swarms of frightfully ill-thought-out replies. It is as if “thinking before you speak” has not made it into the texting sphere.
Social media has become a world where shorthand shock value is valued over meaning. Elegant conversation has been reduced to a meme to be laughed over. Even more concerning, digital natives aren’t cognizant of the conversational skills they lack.
Return to Reality
Without practice, the art of conversation is lost
Philosphical Cummunications by dancer Hillary Sukhonos.
Generation Z and Millenials are boldly building our world, inviting an epidemic of one-sided conversations trapped in a vacuumous echo chamber. A strong case can be made for digital natives to return to real life interactions, preferably with those fluent in body language, gesture, tone, timing. With time, perhaps, dignified conversation can make a comeback or at least bleed into the digital sphere.
Otherwise, technology will continue to be a poor substitute. For example, texting while useful for speedy notifications, is a disastrous main conversation medium. How I would trade in a good conversation over texting anyday!
Although new audio-discussion platforms like Clubhouse are fast appearing on the digital landscape. The opportunity to converse with others is again eclipsed by the middle man of a screen, microphones, and delay. I fear users will be so far removed from real life interactions that the art of conversation could be lost on an entire generation.
So, in the name of preservation of all things artful and pleasing, have a real life conversation today.
Renault Morphoz
Imagine a city with smaller traffic jams, where users share the roads intelligently and life is quieter and more eco-friendly. Now imagine there is a modular car in this city. It gives you a warm welcome to its spacious interior. This is a car that can take you beyond the city, and even far beyond… This is 2025, and you’ve just climbed into MORPHOZ.
fresh eye Electric SUV Concept Car
Getting around isn’t all about high-tech gadgets, it’s about being efficient, quieter and cleaner. It’s about cities becoming gradually less congested, with better air quality, and smarter management of the planet’s energy.
Above: With the MORPHOZ concept car, Renault have captured the mobility of the world 5 years hence. It’s a clean, modular vehicle. It’s bespoke and adapts just as well to everyday journeys as it does to long-distance trips. It’s a passenger car that you share when you’re not using it. You can drive it, or it can drive you.
Electric SUV Concept Car
Practical note: Mobility isn’t all about high-tech gadgets, it’s about being efficient, quieter and cleaner. It’s about cities becoming gradually less congested, better air quality, and smarter management of the planet’s energy. When the vehicle isn’t in motion, its batteries can power equipment in the house or local area (using Vehicle to Grid technology).
Travel Extender: MORPHOZ outlines the vision and business, design and product orientation of the Renault of the future. It’s a modular car which can physically transform according to your needs, either as a short City version or a long Travel version, with the appropriate battery capacity. MORPHOZ might set you daydreaming, but that’s not its main aim. Concept cars are first and foremost innovation labs where we can test technologies and steer the design of our future models. MORPHOZ is another perfect illustration of this.
In its long version, MORPHOZ offers more legroom for passengers and space for additional luggage. On board, everything is centered on the occupants and their interactions.
Electric SUV Concept Car
Energize: The car batteries can also be stored in a charging station for use in other vehicles, or else supply equipment such as self-service cycle recharging stations and street lighting. The more batteries are shared, leads to less production and reduced carbon footprint.
This concept anticipates the disappearance of car keys and key cards, as well as legislation which could one day gradually enforce car sharing on all private vehicles.
From Russia with love
ARussian-born, London-based film director, Alicia Maksimova, takes us on her most exciting journey ever - it took 28 flights to far away locations (not to mention trains, boats and taxis) to complete “No Need of Paradise” (Не надо рая) - a film about the Russian world which includes 200 nationalities - as it was before, on the territory of the Russian Empire, later in the USSR and as it is now. Film heroes and heroines in Lithuania, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Georgia and Russia speak about their feeling of belonging to the united culture and system of traditional values. The multinational unity of the Russian world is still very much alive.
Fresheye asks Alicia Maksimova
10 quick fire questions:
1) How long have you been making films? If not to count teenage experimentation, I have actively worked as an independent film director since my Italian debut in 2008. I’ve been making films in Italian language with
English subtitles, but my last two films are in Russian.
2) What’s the biggest inspiration you’ve gained from travel?
It was last year - flying to Kamchatka in the Far East of Russia, on the Pacific coast (12 time zones away from London). I found paradise there - magnificent nature and amazing people.
3) What’s your favourite film?
There are so many… from different countries. I’d say, the Oscar winning “War and Peace” by Sergei Bondarchuk - still the greatest screen version of all times!
4) Your favourite living artist?
Speaking of art in general, the genius ballet artist Nikolai Tsiskaridze, now the Rector of the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet in St. Petersburg, as well as a famous cultural and social figure.
No need of paradiseA film by Alicia Maksimova.
Alicia Maksimova
“No Need of Paradise” is a complete and perfect work of art, which reaches the mind and heart of the viewer. Mother Russia is alive and vibrant in the voices of women and men of different nationalities that Moscow welcomes in a single affectionate and big embrace.
Prof. Matteo Maglia, vice-president of the European union of art experts
Derek Smith works mainly in wood making birds, fish and other animals, as well as box constructions usually with a nautical theme.
Sculptures carved in unusual Hardwoods from sustainable sources.
Cocobolo, Paduak, Purple Heart, Zebrano and Olivewood.
eye Craft
www.dereksmithsculpture.com
Birds
Song Birds
Blue seaside abstract art painting
www.amazon.com/abstract-painting-landscape-Unstretched-Frameless/dp/B0CDFKPZXH?th=1
Morgan Howell
https://travelartclub.com/
An entirely new material, mixing ceramic with bio-sourced plastic.
