Modern Luxuria Vol 56 January 2025

VOL 56 JANUARY 2025

N A K AT SU I D ER M AS UR G ER Y

EDMONTON'S PREMIER DERMATOLOGY & LASER SKIN CARE CENTRE + HAIR TRANSPLANTS + BOTOX & FILLER + SKIN RESURFACING + SKIN TIGHTENING + SKIN BRIGHTENING + BODY CONTOURING + FAT REDUCTION

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BY PRECISION, SAFETY & RESULTS.

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CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHED BY MODERN LUXURIA LTD.

Brandy Belitsky Twyla Campbell Marcia J. Hamm

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

Steven Hope

Elsa Amorim

Emilie Iggiotti Phebe Melan

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Breanna Mroczek

Twyla Campbell

Renee Robyn Francesca Roznicki

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tom Sedens

Brandy Belitsky

Erin Walker

COPY EDITOR Lucie Oosterveld

Modern Luxuria is a digital magazine and is published monthly.

Advertise with us: hello@modernluxuria.com No part of this magazine, including text, photographs, illustrations, advertising layouts or other graphics may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher. Modern Luxuria Magazine is not responsible for loss, damage or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork (including but not limited to drawings, photographs, or transparencies) or any unsolicited material.

By accepting and publishing advertisements, Modern Luxuria Magazine is in no way endorsing or guaranteeing the quality of service or product with those advertisements.

Thank you

VOL 56 JANUARY 2025

COVER Photography by Erin Walker

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Editor's Note Maybe a bucket-list trip to a far-off destination, or somewhere closer to home? In Canada, both adventure and solitude can be found anywhere you point your compass: in the mountains and forests; the prairie plains and the frozen tundra; the breathtaking coast; the grasslands, the rivers and lakes. The Land of the Maple Leaf has it all.

We are fortunate to live in a country that inspires the world with its natural beauty.

For the 1.1 million people who call Edmonton home, we are lucky to live in a city that also inspires. In October, Edmonton was named one of the top cities in Lonely Planet’s "Best in Travel" for 2025. It was one of 30 cities mentioned, and the only Canadian destination. Perhaps this year will be the year that you explore Edmonton, Alberta’s capital city, and find out what we’ve known all along—that it has a deeply committed and talented arts community, an ever-evolving, Janus, the Roman god of beginnings has two

top-tier culinary scene, a jewel-like river valley,

faces; one that looks into the past, and the other

sweet neighbourhoods, bridges and parks and

that looks to the future. And so we start the new

bike paths and trails, and lovely people who

year with January, the month that honours his

bring it all together.

name, ready to begin again with 2024 serving to remind us of where we’ve been, and 2025 calling

My resolution for this new year is to keep bringing

to us with hope and promise.

readers the stories that inspire and enlighten— the stories of this city. Thankfully the well is deep.

What do you hope for in 2025? A new job?

– Twyla

Deeper connections with trusted friends?

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4 4 8 5 G AT E W A Y B LV D . N W , E D M O N T O N T6H 5C 3 W W W. M O NS O O NB I S T RO .C A

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780 428 6565

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January 2025

Contributors Erin Walker is a professional food

Brandy Belitsky is a mom, wife,

photographer, recipe developer and

graphic designer, photographer, writer,

food stylist, with clients in Edmonton

and singer. Her passion for art an

and across North America. When she’s

design has kept her busy in both the

not spending time behind the lens or

working world and in play. If she's not

in the kitchen, you can find her reading,

working, she's spending time with her

gardening and enjoying everyday life

family, creating something, singing, or

with her husband and her two busy boys.

cooking delicious meals in the kitchen.

Francesca Roznicki is a creative

Emilie Iggiotti is a visionary artist based

entrepreneur and mom of two boys.

in Edmonton, Alberta, who specializes

Passionate about interior design, she has

in portrait and branding photography.

worked exclusively within the interior

With an impressive 15-year journey in

design and home building industry in

the realm of photography, Emilie has

Edmonton. When she isn't shuffling kids

honed her skills, particularly in the

to sports practice and writing for her

delicate art of posing and portraiture.

clients, she's scouring real estate listings

Her passion lies in serving the dynamic

and diving into decor magazines with a

world of entrepreneurs and small

piping-hot Americano in hand.

business owners.

Marcia J. Hamm is a lover of all things

Tom Sedens is a husband, father of

wine, but is especially passionate

three, lover of pie and a world traveler that has explored over 50 countries.

about Italy's native grape varieties. She

He is an accredited member of AJAC

is a WSET diploma holder, an Italian

(Automobile Journalists Association of

Wine Scholar and one of only 15 Italian

Canada) who loves driving anything,

Wine Experts In the world through

anytime, anywhere.

the Vinitaly international Academy (VIA). Marcia also loves to sing, ride her bicycle, and host dinner parties.

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ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY HELLO@ MODERNLUXURIA.COM | PHONE 780-906-7235

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January 2025

Highlights Publisher's Note Embracing beauty, connection and bold beginnings in January Profile Guiding with clarity and heart: Ksenia Lee Fashion Fashion trends to boldly step into 2025

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22

Auto The reimagined 2025 Volvo XC90

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Cuisine The Lingnan: A taste of tradition

38

Drinks Three cozy drinks to beat the January chill 48

Arts & Culture Looking back at 2024 52

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Publisher's Note

“This year, be structured enough for success and achievement and flexible enough for creativity and fun.”

- Taylor Duvall a lovely way to end the day. It’s the perfect backdrop for what we do at Modern Luxuria: celebrate the elegance in everyday moments, the unique aspects of our city, and the extraordinary stories right here in our community.

This month, we bring you features that spark curiosity and creativity, from the visionaries shaping local culture, to the spaces that invite you to linger a little longer. The goal of our team is to capture the essence of luxury, not as something unattainable, but as something deeply personal—a meal shared with friends, a piece of art that speaks to your soul, or a quiet moment that reminds

PHOTO BY TATIYANA SEMENOVA

you of life’s simple joys.

Every January we turn to a blank page and welcome the possibilities, the opportunities, and the stories waiting to

So here’s to a year of discovery, of seeking beauty and

be told. January is more than resolutions or reinventions,

connection in all their forms. Here’s to making time

it’s about connecting with the places and the people

for what matters most and allowing ourselves to be

that inspire us, the ones who dare to dream bigger.

inspired. Let’s step into 2025 with open hearts and bold imaginations.

As I write this, the snow blankets the city with quiet, reflective pause. Edmonton in January has a special

Thank you for being a part of our journey. We’re so glad

kind of beauty. We bundle up to brave the elements and

you’re here.

reap the rewards of shared moments and meaningful

– Elsa

connections. A roaring fireplace and hot drinks later is

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January 2025

I NO LONGER HAVE TO DECIDE BETWEEN MY NEXT MEAL AND MY FUTURE. The 1000 Women Emergency Fund steps in when life gets tough, providing crucial support for students facing impossible choices between education and basic needs. This fund offers hope and relief when it’s needed most.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT.

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Beyond the Numbers Ksenia Lee's passionate approach to wealth advising WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILIE IGGIOTTI

Originally born in Kazakhstan and raised in Moscow, Ksenia Lee’s path to becoming a respected wealth advisor has been filled with unexpected twists.

Immigrating to Canada alone at just 17, she arrived with a dream and the financial insights shared by her mother, a skilled financial planner. At the Angus Watt Advisory Group, with National Bank Financial, she makes the world of finance feel approachable, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. We sat down with Lee and quickly discovered she is not just a financial advisor, but someone who appreciates that real wealth comes from the relationships we build and nurture.

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Tell us about your role as a wealth advisor.

When people think of the finance world or the world of wealth advisory, many think of Wall Street, the stock market, and fancy parties…but that isn’t the reality. I feel I act as a therapist of sorts, but in truth, my role as an advisor is to guide people through their financial questions. This can range from, “My kids are going to go to post-secondary.

Can you guide me in opening a RESP?” to “How do I go about a business succession?” or “My parents are aging, and we have started to look into retirement communities. How much can we afford?” We can discuss tax planning, succession planning, banking solutions, risk management, and estate planning. I am primarily acting as a guiding force for my clients.

It can be a very demanding job because you’re working with people. We're all humans. We all go through ups and downs and my job is to be there and help them however I can. Finances can still be such a stressful and taboo topic for some people, so I am trying to educate and provide financial literacy for the next generation. It isn’t so much about math, it’s about relationships.

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How has the financial industry changed

everything was from home. The other big

over time?

shift was how the conversations changed.

The questions shifted from “How did my

I joined the industry in 2016. At the time,

portfolio do?” to “How's your family doing?

everything felt more transactional. There

How are you parents? How are you coping?

were also not many women in the industry

How's homeschooling? How are you doing

at the time (I recall being at an event with at

mentally?” It became about you as a person

least one hundred people in the room and I

versus you as a portfolio. I am grateful it has

was one of only 5 women). It could have felt

become so much more personal.

overwhelming to be one of very few women, but I found it empowering. As time has gone

What is a challenge that this career has

on, more and more women have entered

presented to you that you didn’t anticipate?

the industry and that is exciting to see. As I continued growing in my role and seeing the

That it is an ever-evolving industry. There

industry evolve, there was more talk about

is always something new to learn which

financial planning as part of the investment

is exciting. But this also means you are

world. I had an amazing mentor who was

committed to lifelong learning and that

very passionate about financial planning

takes time and effort, of course. Many people

being a strong pillar of our industry. Financial

join this industry with high expectations,

planning meant having a deeper sense of

looking for easy money and an active social

understanding about our clients—diving

calendar. But it isn’t always like that. Yes, it is a

into retirement projection, tax planning, etc.

demanding career, and it requires sacrifices.

so that we could impart better knowledge

Sometimes it means your family is home

for our clients. Then Covid happened and

waiting for you while you’re working late, or

everything changed. The first big shift

you need take on another designation to

in the industry was adjusting to work for

better position yourself for future success. At

home. We're very much an in-person firm

the end of the day, it is all worth it and I I love

and suddenly we were all electronic and

what I do.

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"

It could have felt overwhelming to be one of very few women, but I found it empowering.

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January 2025

What's your investment philosophy?

When it comes to investment philosophy, it varies depending on the person. I believe that every individual and every story is unique. I think what is most important is to get to know the person.

Our guiding beliefs at Angus Watt Advisory Group are “Trust, Clarity, and Heart”.

We do believe in

prosperity for all, and these pillars represent that for us. Trust is required for any relationship to flourish—whether it is a working relationship, a dating relationship, the relationship with your children, or even your dog. For me it is critical that that trust is first and foremost. The clarity piece is about making sure we are clear with our clients.

The world of finance can be an intimidating place and not everyone is knowledgeable about finances.

That’s why it is important to ensure that everyone involved understands what is happening, what is being discussed, and that communication is very clear. When it comes to the heart, that’s really about the passion we feel about being able to do this job.

There are always good days and bad days, but I truly feel so passionate about my work. Confucius was right when he said, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

WWW.NBFWM.CA

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Le 31 Fuzzy Knit Cardigan www.simons.ca

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January 2025

New Year, New You The art of reinvention through style PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

With January's arrival comes the promise of a fresh start, inspiring us to welcome change—starting with our style. This season, fashion celebrates reinvention, offering a blend of modern tailoring, dramatic textures, and sustainable luxury. From power suits that exude confidence to statement accessories that add a touch of whimsy, the options are endless. Step into this curated guide and stride into 2025, making it your most stylish year yet.

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Free People Chloe Quilted Jacket www.bellamaas.com

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January 2025

Le 31 Stretch Chinos Stockholm Fit www.simons.ca

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Sanctuary Eve Cargo Pants www.bellamaas.com

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January 2025

Crescent Kendall Jacket www.bellamaas.com

Acne Studioes Crew Neck Sweater www.gravitypope.com

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Rails Gabriella Champagne Leopard Dress www.whocareswear.com

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January 2025

Boss Woven Checkers Suit www.simons.ca

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Pistola Alice Utility Midi Skirt www.whocareswear.com

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January 2025

Mauritius Long Leather Trenchcoat www.simons.ca

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Contemporary Dynamic Beauty Scandinavian elegance with dynamic, efficient power WORDS BY TOM SEDENS PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

It doesn’t seem like a decade has passed since we first met this generation of the XC90, Volvo’s flagship SUV, but time has a funny way of quickly passing these days. In the constant flux of the automotive world, the XC90 could be seen as geriatric, but the fact that this luxury still has heads turning is a testament to Volvo’s enduring and timeless designs.

The updated 2025 XC90 gets a refined exterior, new interior trim options, and a new infotainment system on a larger screen.

The striking new grille adds a hint of fresh flair with slats that intersect in an unconventional way. With eyes drawn to the angled brightwork, it immediately becomes the XC90’s hallmark.

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In addition, Volvo augments the grille with a

Continuing

notched hood and slimmer headlights that lend

sustainability, Volvo offers a pair of new upholstery

an updated look to the famous Thor’s Hammer

options for the XC90: a stunning navy-blue

light signature. Filling the wheel wells are

herringbone finish using recycled polyester, and

attractive and modern all-new designs for the

a vegan leather made of bio-based and recycled

available 20-, 21- and 22-inch wheels.

materials. Of course, for those preferring the

their

relentless

shift

toward

traditional, Volvo still offers their beautiful genuine As one would expect from Volvo, the cabin is a

leather upholstery.

masterpiece of restraint. The plush interior has an attractive, clean design using high-quality

The biggest change inside the updated XC90

materials that make it feel like a high-end

is a higher resolution, 11.2-inch infotainment

Scandinavian home. Beautiful open-pore wood

touchscreen display featuring a fresh user interface

trim, soft leather, and tasteful brightwork combine

with a revised layout. The Google-based system

to create the warm ambiance and minimalism for

controls all major vehicle functions including

which the company is known; and, as always, the

the sound system which can be upgraded to a

delightful extra touches like artful speaker grilles

staggering 1410-watt, 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins

and the crystal gear shifter made exclusively for

setup, sure to leave even seasoned audiophiles

Volvo by Orrefors of Sweden.

breathless.

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January 2025

Elsewhere, there is a reimagined centre console design with an excellent smartphone charging system. Ergonomically designed seating is available for six or seven passengers with access to cupholders and USB-C charging outlets. The third row is smaller and therefore better suited for children or shorter trips.

Although the XC90 has always had an excellent ride, Volvo has upgraded the suspension system along with the vehicle’s noise insulation. This ensures an even more serene and controlled ride on less than stellar roads. And for those wanting the creamiest of rides, an available air suspension system monitors the road 500 times per second and even self-levels the vehicle for additional comfort.

The motivation for this SUV comes from a pair of highly refined powertrains. A 295 horsepower mild-hybrid system is standard, providing plentiful power.

Buyers that want the ultimate combination of efficiency and power can opt for the top-line, T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain.

It puts out up to 455 combined horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque while providing up to 53 kms of emissions-free pure electric driving.

Volvo’s XC90 is as relevant as ever—a wholly contemporary, stylish and modern SUV. It remains as current today as when we first met it, thanks to this dynamic update.

WWW.VOLVOCARS.COM

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January 2025

The Lingnan A cornerstone of the culinary community WORDS BY BREANNA MROCZEK PHOTOGRAPHY ERIN WALKER

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Walking into The Lingnan restaurant is like stepping back in time. The decor, largely unchanged since the restaurant moved to its current location in 1962, includes ornate gold ceilings, arches, and vintage lanterns. Miles Quon, who runs the restaurant—originally opened by his grandfather in 1947—alongside his parents, says that the reactions from customers help remind him how special the ambiance is.

“For me, going into the restaurant is just another day, but when I hear people’s comments or look at photos people take, it helps to look at it through fresh eyes and gives me the opportunity to reflect on what this restaurant means to people after all these years.” Customers will bring old menus, matchbooks and other memorabilia from the restaurant for the Quons to admire. Some ends up back in the restaurant, and lots are donated to the Royal Alberta Museum for safekeeping and preservation.

As a small, family-run business, the Quons are front and centre, making every decision and tending to customers.

“Customers will see my mom at the front chatting with kids, or in the back packing orders. I may be taking food to the table, or taking orders over the phone. My mom, dad and I do everything.”

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Of course, a good restaurant needs good food to be memorable.

Among the standout dishes of Chinese food is the dry spicy chicken—a customer favourite for decades—made with a secret housemade fragrant salt blend. It’s also a nostalgic nod to Chicken for Lunch, a restaurant run by Amy, Quon’s mother, which closed in 2024 after 32 years. “It has a cult following, and we bring it to Taste of Edmonton every year,” Quon says. “It’s definitely the star of the menu.” Some other customer favourites can’t be found on the menu—there are dishes that the Quons took off the menu decades ago, but longtime customers will still order them and the Quons find a way to make it for them. “When I was younger I would try to push new dishes, but I realized that people come to my restaurant for nostalgia, for their family time, or because their parents and grandparents took them to the restaurant,” Quon says.

For nearly 80 years, The Lingnan has been a cornerstone of the community where families create lasting memories over these flavourful dishes. While staying true to their roots, the Quon family acknowledges the necessity of adapting to the times. The Lingnan now partners with third-party delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash to meet modern delivery expectations so customers can enjoy their favourite dishes in the comfort of their homes. “I held out for a long time,” Quon admits. “But we had to pivot. It’s not the same as chatting with customers directly, and I miss the phone calls, but it’s part of keeping the business alive.”

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January 2025

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During a time where food costs are rising and struggling restaurants close their doors, The Lingnan continues to thrive thanks to its loyal customers who continue to introduce new fans. “As a third-generation restaurant, we’re very lucky to be in a position where we can focus on customers and food quality and innovation, rather than trying to keep the lights on,” Quon says. “My parents and I are very blessed by the support Edmonton has given us.”

The connection between The Lingnan and its patrons is deeply personal, and the Quons pay it forward to the customers who have supported their restaurant over the years. “We’ve built relationships so deep that when customers pass away, we send flowers and condolences,” Quon says. “That kind of connection is rare. When’s the last time a chain restaurant did that?”

For those yet to visit, the invitation is simple: “Come in, check it out. It’s an experience. You’ll find incredible food, a nostalgic atmosphere, and a family that truly cares. The Lingnan isn’t just a restaurant—it’s part of Edmonton’s heart. We’re as Edmonton as Edmonton can be.”

WWW.THELINGNAN.COM

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Some Like It Hot How to ward off winter’s chill WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

January is one of the coldest months for those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere, so to help ward off the chill, we like to cozy up with a good book and a hot drink. Grab your favourite mug or heavy snifter. Here are three fabulous recipes to warm you from the inside out.

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Brown Sugar Apple Cider Yields 1 Apple cider is a token cold-weather drink and can be served in several ways. This can be made from scratch with spices like clove, nutmeg or anise for preferred flavours, or a pre-mix cider can also be purchased then embellished with additional spices as in the recipe below: 6 oz apple cider pre-mix (available at most grocery stores with the spices already added) 2 oz bourbon of choice For extra flavour: 1 tsp brown sugar ½ tsp cinnamon Garnish: 1 cinnamon stick, 4 to 6 inches in length In a microwave-safe cup, add apple cider pre-mix, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir to combine. Heat on high for 2 minutes.

Remove, and pour into a glass mug. Add the bourbon and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Blueberry Tea Yields 1 While there is no blueberry flavour added to this cocktail, the combination of the liqueurs and tea gives this warm drink a taste reminiscent of blueberries.

4 oz Orange Pekoe tea (or more to taste) 1 oz amaretto 1 oz orange liqueur (Grand Marnier, Triple Sec, Cointreau, or any other preferred orange-flavoured liqueur) Garnish: 3 to 5 blueberries (optional) Brew the tea and let it steep for 3 to 4 minutes. Combine amaretto and orange liqueur in a brandy snifter. Pour in the hot, steeped tea. Float blueberries on the top for colour, if desired.

Bonfire S’mores Hot Chocolate Yields 2 Hardy Albertans love their bonfires, even in winter. For those who prefer to bring the bonfire inside, this rich and delectable drink takes on the flavours of a classic fireside treat with a little added whisky to make this a perfect adult drink.

1 cup milk 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 Graham cracker, crushed 2 tbsp honey ¼ cup chocolate syrup ¼ cup chocolate pudding mix (powder) 4 oz whisky (Irish or Canadian whisky) 2 large marshmallows Add milk and cream to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Meanwhile, add chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl and use 30 second intervals to melt chocolate, stirring between each. Dip rims of two campfire mugs (or any fire-retardant mug) in the chocolate, then dip in the crushed Graham cracker.

Set aside.

Add remaining melted chocolate to the dairy mixture along with honey and chocolate syrup. Whisk together. Gradually whisk in the pudding mix until fully combined. Bring to a low simmer then remove from heat. Whisk in the whisky and pour into the prepared mugs. Top each with the marshmallows then use a kitchen torch to toast them. (Kitchen torches are available at most kitchenware stores and major online retailers.)

PHOTO BY STEVEN HOPE

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January 2025

A Year of Arts & Culture Stories and artists that shaped 2024 WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY

As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on a year of stories celebrating the creative spirit that thrives in YEG. From galleries to stages, 2024’s Arts & Culture section highlighted the passions of local artists who dared to push the boundaries.

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PHOTO BY PHEBE MELAN

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March welcomed Jael Roznicki and her vision for Maud Gallery, a space she curated with an eye for contemporary art. Inspired by the legacy of Canadian folk artist Maud Kathleen Lewis, Roznicki’s gallery on 124th Street is the spot for modern art lovers and the art-curious alike. Her own abstract pieces fill spaces alongside works she meticulously sources from Canadian artists, creating a narrative-rich environment that encourages visitors to explore and interpret.

WWW.MAUDGALLERY.COM

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January 2025

PHOTO BY PHEBE MELAN

In April, we met Clay Ellis, who offered us a masterclass in creative evolution from his Edmonton studio. A craftsman with decades of experience, Ellis’s work bridges the tactile and the ephemeral. His innovative resin "tarps" blur the boundaries between sculpture and painting, with vibrant colours and geometric patterns that invite viewers to reconsider the relationship between form and space.

WWW.CLAYELLISART.COM

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June brought the compelling story of Daniel Sundahl,

a

former

paramedic-turned-artist

whose work channels trauma into powerful visual narratives. Sundahl’s digitally enhanced photographs recreate the harrowing moments of emergency scenes he witnessed, blending realism with symbolic elements to convey resilience and hope. His art reflects the transformative power of creativity in overcoming personal struggles.

His advocacy for mental health among first responders has extended his impact far beyond the canvas.

WWW.EMILIODEMERCATO.COM

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PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

PHOTO BY STEVEN HOPE

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In July, we met with 2020 Juno award winner Celeigh Cardinal, an indigenous singer-songwriter, whose third album, Boundless Possibilities, marked a deeply personal transformation. Initially envisioned as a celebration of euphoria, the album evolved to explore themes of grief and joy after a series of life-altering events, including the loss of her son’s father. Cardinal’s career has been marked by her powerful voice and emotional storytelling, earning her widespread acclaim and numerous awards.

WWW.CELEIGHCARDINAL.COM

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January 2025

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

October shone a spotlight on James Lavoie, whose minimalist glassworks combine precision and spontaneity. From kiln-formed glass sculptures to boat-shaped designs with unexpected textural effects, Lavoie’s pieces are elegant explorations of light, form, and simplicity. His openness to experimentation ensures that each creation offers a sense of discovery.

WWW.ALBERTACRAFT.AB.CA/LAVOIE

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PHOTO BY RENEE ROBYN PHOTOGRAPHY

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January 2025

November featured the breathtaking aerial artistry of Sarah Visser. Known as "Sarah the Aerialist," Visser’s journey from competitive gymnastics to swinging trapeze performer has been defined by resilience. Her daring performances have graced stages both locally and worldwide.

WWW.SARAHTHEAERIALIST.COM

As we close the book on another year, we are thrilled to introduce our readers to all of the new local artists that 2025 will bring. Who would you like to see featured in our magazine this year?

Send an email to hello@modernluxuriamagazine. com and let us know!

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www.modernluxuria.com Ojai Upholstered Wood Frame Accent Chair www.crateandbarrel.ca

Priya Rug Grey www.simoneandivy.ca

Gather Leather Ottman www.crateandbarrel.ca

Understated Elegance The beauty of simplicity using classic tones PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Begin the new year with a fresh perspective by embracing the understated elegance of cream, black, and brown in your decor. This classic trio balances warmth and sophistication, creating a serene and inviting space. From cozy textiles to sleek furniture, these hues prove that simplicity is the ultimate form of luxury.

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Georgia Coffee Table www.homeandcottages.com

January 2025

Ione Vase www.simoneandivy.ca

Lena Throw Pillow www.simoneandivy.ca

Hyde Pieced Suede Throw Pillow Cover www.crateandBarrel.ca

Tryst Floor Lamp www.parklighting.ca

Fly Casting Wall Art www.mcelherans.com

Aviator Leather Sofa www.crateandbarrel.ca

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Celebrate Winter Must-see YEG events this January WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

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January 2025

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January 2025

New Year's Day Brunch January 1 - Fairmont Hotel Macdonald Start the year with elegance at Hotel Macdonald’s New Year’s Day Brunch. This event pairs the building’s historic charm with a feast worth savouring. It’s the perfect setting to indulge and reflect on your resolutions, or perhaps, to create new ones—like treating yourself more often!

WWW.FAIRMONT.COM/MACDONALD-EDMONTON/DINING/NEW-YEARS-DINING

WWW.YEGXMASMARKET.COM

Edmonton MS Whisky Festival January 15 - Delta Edmonton South The Edmonton MS Whisky Festival is a toast to great spirits and good causes. Sample a wide array of whiskies, from smooth classics to bold newcomers. Whether you’re an aficionado or a curious taster, this event offers more than indulgence—it’s a gathering of community spirit, warming hearts while supporting MS Canada.

WWW.MSCANADA .CA / TAKE-ACTION/COMMUNITY-EVENTS/MS-EDMONTON-WHISKY-FESTIVAL-0 W.YEGCANDYCANELANE.COM

Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival January 18 - 19 - Between 90 and 95 Street along 118 Ave Deep Freeze transforms winter into a celebration of culture and creativity. Experience icy sculptures, Métis jigging, and Eastern European folklore in a festival that warms the coldest days. With the aroma of bannock and mulled wine in the air, it’s an event that makes winter feel magical and full of possibility.

WWW.DEEPFREEZEFEST.CA

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www.modernluxuria.com

Mozart & Sibelius January 18 - 19 - Winspear Centre Step into the Winspear Centre and let the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra take you on a musical journey. Mozart’s precision and Sibelius’s sweeping drama blend to create an unforgettable evening. Close your eyes and feel transported as the music paints vivid landscapes in your ears.

WWW.WINSPEARCENTRE.COM/TICKETS/EVENTS/ESO/2025/MOZART-AND-SIBELIUS WWW.CIRQUEDUSOLEIL.COM/CORTEO

Winterruption YEG January 22 - 26 - Various locations around downtown Edmonton Winterruption YEG brings some brightness to Edmonton’s dark winters with music, comedy and art. This five-day festival spans eclectic venues downtown, featuring indie bands, comedians and captivating performances. Winterruption celebrates Edmonton’s vibrant creativity, proving that winter is no time for hibernation.

WWW.WINTERRUPTIONYEG.COM

Flying Canoë Volant January 29 - February 1 - Mill Creek Ravine Flying Canoë Volant invites you to step into a winter dreamscape. Inspired by voyageur legends and Indigenous and Francophone traditions, this festival lights up the ravine with lanterns, fire and music. It’s a magical blend of adventure and storytelling, perfect for getting lost in the beauty of Edmonton’s River Valley.

WWW.LACITEFRANCO.CA/FLYING-CANOË-VOLANT

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January 2025

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