THE Stylemate issue 01 | 2025 The Invisible Thread E
Beauty in the unremarkable Pages 19–21
Anselm Kiefer: Art as shock therapy Pages 22–23
Interview with Margherita Belcredi: “Art requires discussion” Pages 24–26
Meditation: Connection Page 27
Lifestylehotels™ Selection:
Es Racó d’Artà Page LH-Cover 01
Lifestylehotels™ Directory Page LH 02
Sportresidenz Zillertal Page LH 03
Es Racó d’Artà
4
Kumaon
LH 08
Serra Nature
LH 09
Hotel SEPP Page LH 10
Küglerhof Page LH 11
OLM Nature Escape Page LH 12
Imprint Page 2
The common thread that unites us all
In a world that is constantly moving and changing, we keep searching for what connects us. Connection is more than just a feeling, it is an energy that flows across boundaries – between people, cultures, philosophies and places. It is an invisible bond that reminds us that we are part of something bigger. It gives us comfort in moments of uncertainty and allows us to recognise the potential of shared experiences.
We are dedicating this issue of The Stylemate to this topic. It is a journey that takes us into the fundamentals of Western and Eastern philosophy and to places and experiences that can strengthen our connection to ourselves and others.
Our cover story highlights the differences and similarities between ways of thinking in the east and west – two sides of the same coin that shape the modern world. We journey to Tuscany, where the focus at the Clayground retreat is on your connection with yourself.
In Tokyo, we take a look at the Expo and Japanese culture, which continually emphasises the idea of community and mutual enrichment via its ancient traditions and new developments. In an interview with Margherita Belcredi from Phileas, we find out how an international art network boosts global connection and allows for new perspectives.
Connected stories, philosophies and experiences – this issue of The Stylemate is an invitation to discover the common thread that unites us all, and perhaps gain a new perspective on the bigger picture.
Thomas Holzleithner & Hardy Egger EDITORS
BAGS TELL STORIES
The cotton-lined, patent leather DINKUM ed.2 can be carried as an oversized, elegant baguette-shaped version of a shoulder bag or a petite, sporty version of the classic duffel bag. By simply reattaching the leather strap, you can even wear it as a crossbody bag. For a bit more edge, you can add the BALL’N’CHAIN ed.1 chain strap.
In his book Warum ich keinen Alkohol mehr trinke [Why I don’t drink alcohol anymore], bestselling author Bas Kast shares his personal path to a more conscious life. With a scientific background and authentic insights, he shines a light on the health and social benefits of a life without alcohol – and will get you thinking about your own alcohol consumption.
penguin.de, Warum ich keinen Alkohol mehr trinke by Bas Kast, C.Bertelsmann, from approx. €20
Mindful
TIMELESS ELEGANCE IN THE SPOTLIGHT
The Formakami lamp by designer Jaime Hayon for &Tradition combines traditional Asian lamp shapes with modern Scandinavian design. Handcrafted out of rice paper and black stained oak, it glows with a gentle, warm light that transforms every room into a cosy oasis. It is a piece that tells stories and therefore remains timeless.
andtradition.com, Formakami Limited Edition lamp, from approx. €340
BALANCE IN YOUR HAND
A shakti ball is more than just a massage tool. Thanks to its gentle acupressure points, it stimulates blood circulation and releases tension. Use it on tired feet or a stiff neck – this small, handy ball will help you to balance out your body and mind.
shaktimat.de, Shakti Spiky Ball, from approx. €59.99
MINDFUL DRINKING
Juni, the new drink from Jay Shetty, brings mindfulness to everyday life. With natural ingredients and subtle flavours, it will encourage you to consciously enjoy the moment. Be it as a refreshment on the go or a treat during a break, Juni is an invitation to stop and connect with yourself.
drinkjuni.com, various flavours, from approx. €29
SOUND WITH ATTITUDE
The Fairbuds XL from Fairphone make a statement: sustainability and high-quality technology are not mutually exclusive. The modular over-ear headphones provide exceptional sound and are designed to facilitate easy repair and recycling. It’s a piece of technology with a passion for the environment and your ears.
fairphone.com, Fairbuds XL headphones, from approx. €249
What is the meaning of life?
What
are the good things in life?
How can we lead a fulfilling life?
These universal questions are covered by both Western and Eastern philosophy, and as a result form the basis for fruitful discussion.
Text: Nina Prehofer
SIDES 2
OF THE
ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF WESTERN PHILOSOPHY
Western philosophy has its roots in ancient Greece in around the 6th century BC. Pre-Socratic philosophers such as Thales, Anaximander and Heraclitus were looking for a rational explanation for the world and its phenomena. They laid the foundation for a tradition that focuses on logic, reason and empirical examination. A new era began with Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. Socrates placed the knowledge and virtue of people front and centre, Plato’s ideology created a vision of the metaphysical world and Aristotle designed a comprehensive system comprising both science and ethics. These thinkers didn’t just shape their own time, they also had a long-term influence on European philosophy. In the Middle Ages, these ideas were combined with Christian theology. Philosophers like Augustine and Thomas Aquinas tried to reconcile beliefs and reason. The Renaissance and enlightenment marked a return to human reason, to individual thinking and scientific curiosity. This development laid the foundation for modern times, when philosophers like Descartes, Kant and Nietzsche reinterpreted the topics of subjectivity, morality and existence.
ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF EASTERN PHILOSOPHY
Eastern philosophy evolved in parallel with Western philosophy, but with a different focus. It was deeply rooted in spiritual and cosmological traditions. In India, the Vedas (1500–500 BC) formed the basis of philosophical thinking. The Upanishads took these ideas further and introduced terms such as Brahman (ultimate reality) and Atman (the self). Buddhism and Jainism came later and shone a new light on ethical and existential questions. In China, Confucius and Laozi shaped philosophical thinking. Confucianism valued social harmony, morality and education, while Daoism highlighted the union of people and nature. The trends didn’t just influence Chinese culture, but also the culture in many neighbouring countries. More traditions emerged as time passed, such as Zen Buddhism, which aimed to capture the essence of life through meditation and intuition.
YIN AND YANG?
Western philosophy is often geared towards the analytical and the rational. It seeks logical explanations and places the individual at the centre. Topics like freedom, ethics and science are paramount. Eastern philosophy, on the other hand, takes a holistic approach. It highlights the harmony between people and the cosmos, and prioritises meditation, intuition and internal perception. While Western philosophy develops theories, Eastern philosophy is often practical and aims to apply wisdom in everyday life. You could say they’re like two sides of the same coin, each one benefitting the other, because despite their differences, the two traditions have become more and more similar throughout history. There were encounters even in ancient times, between Greek and Indian thinkers, for example. The exchange intensified in the 19th and 20th centuries: Schopenhauer was inspired by the Upanishads, and eastern thinkers like Vivekananda brought the wisdom of Asia to the west.
Today, we experience a blend of ideas. Yoga and meditation are widespread in the west, while Eastern cultures have adopted technologies and scientific methods from the west. This interaction leads to a new global perspective that incorporates both traditions. Despite all of their differences, the two philosophies share core questions: what is the meaning of life? How can we lead a good life? Both traditions face new challenges in the modern world. Climate change, rapid technologisation and social inequality require our joint consideration. This is where the strengths of both philosophies could be combined: the analytical depth of the west and the intuitive wisdom of the east. In a globalised world, it is more important than ever to recognise the strengths of both sides and to unite them. Together, they can help to create a world that isn’t just more intelligent but also wiser.
SAME COIN
Philosophy has always been an expression of the human quest for knowledge, truth and understanding. Over millennia, this has resulted in two main traditions: Western and Eastern philosophy. Although they originated in different cultural and historical contexts, they share the same goal of better understanding and enriching human life.
HIPPIE
AND
IN THE HEART OF THE INDIAN STATE OF UTTARAKHAND, AMID THE PEACEFUL MAJESTY OF THE KUMAON MOUNTAINS, THERE IS A PLACE THAT SEEMS TO BE DEFYING TIME
SPACE IN EQUAL MEASURE: THE KASAR DEVI TEMPLE, ALSO KNOWN AS HIPPIE HILL.
Driving out of Almora, the road winds over steep mountain slopes and through dense pine forests. The clear mountain air fills your lungs while your gaze sweeps across endless green expanses and snow-capped peaks. It is a journey that gradually releases travellers from the hectic hustle and bustle of the modern world, and gently guides them to a calmer, more contemplative environment. The path leading to the Kasar Devi Temple is just as much a part of the experience as the place itself.
This small temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, has a long history that combines spirituality, proximity to nature and a touch of alternative culture. The temple itself is unassuming – and yet full of meaning. A simple shrine made out of stone and wood sits atop a small platform, affording a panoramic view of the breathtaking Himalayan mountain range. It is said that Kasar Devi is one of few places in the world where you can sense a strong geomagnetic field. Visitors report a unique energy permeating the place and it is easy to understand why the temple has been a centre for meditation and contemplation for several centuries.
THE MOTHER ON A LION
The goddess Durga is worshipped in Hinduism as the embodiment of feminine power and protection. She is the invincible warrior who allows good to triumph over evil, and is often depicted on a lion or tiger. Durga doesn’t just represent courage and strength, but also compassion and care – characteristics sought and experienced by many believers at Kasar Devi. The temple’s story started a long time ago. It was probably built in the 2nd century and has experienced an eventful history since then. Once a peaceful sanctuary for local believers, it was discovered in the 1960s by western tourists looking for spiritual enlightenment and an alternative to the materialistic world. That’s how the temple got the nickname Hippie Hill. In those days, Kasar Devi was a meeting place for free spirits, musicians and philosophers who appreciated the tranquillity and inspiration of the location. Among the celebrities who have visited the temple and its surroundings are author and mystic Timothy Leary, songwriter Cat Stevens (now known as Yusuf Islam) and painter and poet Rabindranath Tagore. Bob Dylan and Uma Thurman are also said to have stayed here for a while and been inspired by the peacefulness and the atmosphere. Today, the Kasar Devi Temple is a fascinating melting pot. Pilgrims come to pay their respects to the goddess Durga and tourists from all over the world consider
HILL
it a place of inner peace. The small community around the temple has adapted to the slow pace of life. Local tearooms tempt visitors to take a break, while you can also experience the grandeur of the landscape thanks to the surrounding hiking trails. The sunset at the Kasar Devi Temple is an experience that is hard to summarise in words. When the last of the sun’s rays bathe the mountains in a vibrant orange light and the wind softly whispers through the trees, the world appears to stand still. It is a moment in which you feel that this place isn’t just a temple – it’s a safe haven for the soul.
Anyone who visits Kasar Devi will leave with much more than just memories of a spectacular landscape. They will take with them the experience of a place that has inspired people for centuries – be it through the spiritual energy of the temple, the timeless beauty of nature or the stories hidden in every corner of this special patch of the earth. In a world that seems to be turning ever faster, Kasar Devi remains an anchor of stability and a quiet call to stop and listen.
STRETCH UP TO THE SKY AND OLIVE GROVES SHIMMER IN THE GOLDEN
YOU’LL FIND VILLA GIUNCHETO. FROM HERE, THE VIEW EXTENDS ACROSS THE LANDSCAPE TO SIENA – A VIEW THAT TELLS A STORY OF TRANQUILLITY AND ETERNITY. HERE, IN THIS PICTURESQUE SANCTUARY, IS WHERE THE CLAYGROUND RETREAT TAKES PLACE, RUN BY ARTISTS
DEEPLY AND FEEL THE MOMENT IN YOUR
AMID THE GENTLY ROLLING HILLS OF TUSCANY, WHERE THE CYPRESS TREES
LIGHT,
ANNA RIESS AND FIRA RIETVELD. IT ENCOURAGES PEOPLE TO STOP, BREATHE
HANDS.
Two artists, one concept. Anna Riess, an artist living and working in Vienna, and Fira Rietveld, a designer from Amsterdam. Together, they have developed a unique concept that combines the creative process and a deep connection with your own intuition and the earth. During their workshops in Tuscany, participants are encouraged to work with the clay not just with the goal of shaping a perfect object, but with the purpose of experiencing the moment. Creating with their hands, feeling the soft material, forgiving mistakes – it’s all part of a process that is one thing above all else: a conversation with your inner self. The days are permeated with tranquillity and mindfulness. Kristina, the housekeeper of Villa Giuncheto, prepares spectacular vegetarian cuisine using ingredients from her own garden and local sources. There’s no celebrating meat here, rather the abundance of the earth –the aromas that Tuscany has to offer are prevalent in every meal.
SOUND BATHS AND HUMAN DESIGN
In the centre of this circle of stillness and creation, you’ll also meet Alexa Valentin, a certified yoga teacher, human design guide and sound practitioner. She brings an extra element of depth and harmony to the retreat. Her aim is to help participants free themselves of the limits of their own minds and connect with themselves on a deeper level – body, mind and soul. Her approach is a holistic one: through yoga, sound baths and human design, participants can learn how to understand their own energy and realign with it. The morning schedule begins with a gentle yoga session to prepare participants for the day. With slow movements, breathing exercises and meditation, everyone finds a peaceful start to the day that connects them deeply with nature and the rhythm of Tuscany. In the evening, there is a sound bath to guide the body and soul into deep relaxation, accompanied by healing sounds that calm the mind and recharge the senses.
A trip to the nearby natural hot springs is a wonderful experience. In the mineral-rich waters, you won’t just relax, you’ll also feel the healing effect of the water. Plunging into these springs becomes a moment of complete tranquillity that has a profound, regenerative effect. Walking through the villa’s olive grove, where you’ll discover porcini mushrooms, is another of the meditative experiences to be had at the retreat. The fresh air, the fragrance of the trees, the twittering of the birds – all of this promotes the connection with nature and yourself.
Villa Giuncheto, nestled in the rolling hills, is the ideal place for this. It encourages moments of tranquillity, stillness and creativity. The view of the Tuscan landscape enhances the feeling of arrival and connection. It is a place where everyday life fades away and emphasis is placed on the essentials – your own inner process, creation, the here and now. Through creative expression while manipulating clay, through yoga and sound, through experiencing nature and encountering a group of people looking for inner peace and self-awareness in a similar way, space for regeneration is created. It is the process that’s celebrated here, not the result. The mind can relax and the heart opens up. A moment that lasts.
CLAYGROUND
CERAMICS RETREAT
SPRING 2025 3–6 April 2025 Tuscany, Italy clayground-retreat.com
To the
tuscan
rhythm
WHAT DO WE NEED IN ORDER TO GROW?
OBSTACLES, MAYBE, OR MISTAKES. FEAR, AND DEFINITELY COURAGE. BUT ABOVE ALL ELSE: STILLNESS. AND A COUPLE OF DEEP BREATHS. PREFERABLY IN A PLACE WHERE THE STILLNESS CAN BE LOUD AND ACCOMPANIED BY GENTLE MUSIC AND CALMING VOICES. JUST WHAT YOU’LL FIND AT THE ARISE BODY AND MIND STUDIOS BELONGING TO THE ALTO HOTEL GROUP IN LANA AND BOLZANO (SOUTH TYROL).
THEN WHAT? A COUPLE MORE CENTIMETRES OF WISDOM. HOLISTIC WELL-BEING. AN UPLIFTING FEELING WHEN THE BODY AND MIND ARE IN BALANCE.
And that’s just what you’ll feel when you attend these three classes:
MULTISENSORY YOGA EXPERIENCE
Based on Vinyasa Yoga. Your senses will also be heightened. Your sense of smell through incense sticks, sprays and essential oils applied to your trigger points. Your sense of touch through acupressure. Your sense of taste through teas and mindfully eating a piece of chocolate or a raisin. Your sense of hearing through mantras, singing bowls and tuning forks. It is a magically holistic experience that is invigorating, inspiring and creative.
CEREMONIAL CACAO
Cacao is more than just a warming, comforting drink from your childhood. Cacao comes from “Chokola’j”, as it is known in the Mayans’ language, meaning the collective drinking of chocolate. The ceremony depends on the shared traditions for the occasion, for example for the new moon, the birth of a child, an engagement, the loss of a loved one. It opens the heart and touches the soul. Sip by sip, we feel the love and connection in the room. How does the present moment feel?
and Glow
YIN AND SOUND
When life has too much yang, you need a little yin to balance it out. That’s what ancient Chinese wisdom tells us. With Yin Yoga, the body is allowed to linger in poses for a longer time, meaning you can sink deeper and deeper into yourself. At the same time, the harmonious sounds of Crystal Alchemy Singing Bowls ring out. This is accompanied by somatic exercises such as tapping and acupressure. At the end of the hour, an earthy scent of pine or palo santo floats in the air. And then you’ll be ready to say goodnight.
ARISE BODY & MIND STUDIO arisebodymind.com
Parkhotel Mondschein: Piavestraße 15, Bolzano
Making life
IN HIS BOOK WAS IM ALLTAG GUT TUT [THINGS TO MAKE EVERYDAY LIFE GOOD], RENOWNED BENEDICTINE MONK AND AUTHOR OF NUMEROUS SPIRITUAL WORKS ANSELM GRÜN TAKES US ON A JOURNEY THROUGH SMALL YET IMPACTFUL SOURCES OF INSPIRATION THAT CAN ENRICH OUR EVERYDAY LIVES AND NOURISH OUR SOULS. THE BOOK IS A COMPILATION OF SHORT, CONCISE CHAPTERS THAT COVER VARIOUS OPPORTUNITIES TO FIND YOUR WAY BACK TO YOURSELF AND DRAW STRENGTH IN HECTIC DAILY LIFE. GRÜN SHOWS HOW ROUTINES, MINDFULNESS AND LOOKING INWARDS CAN HELP TO OVERCOME LIFE’S CHALLENGES WITH COMPOSURE AND GRATITUDE.
To do this, Grün draws on his wealth of experience as a monk and spiritual guide and combines Christian spirituality with timeless worldly wisdom. He discusses topics such as gratitude, inner peace, forgiveness and self-care. Particular focus is placed on empowering the reader to discover their own personal ways to do something good for themselves and support their own well-being. The clear, warm and compassionate language makes it easy for readers to connect with their thoughts. His words are characterised by wisdom and often have the effect of mini meditation sessions that you can reach for in a stressful moment. The style is accessible, meaning that both spiritually attuned readers and those looking for simple counselling are catered for. The chapters are short enough to be read and internalised in just a few minutes. This makes the book the ideal companion for everyday life. Grün doesn’t propose any strict rules, just invites you to apply his suggestions as needed.
The book is also shaped by his positive and optimistic attitude. It provides confidence without coming across as unrealistic or
preaching. In our fast-paced world, in particular, Grün extends a comforting invitation to enjoy and appreciate life more consciously. For readers seeking a detailed examination of profound theological or psychological questions, the book may only just scratch the surface, but it can also be viewed as a collection of prompts and inspiration – a comprehensive handbook.
Was im Alltag gut tut is an inspiring book that is ideally suited as a guide for those who are looking for small slices of peace and happiness in their daily lives. Anselm Grün succeeds in capturing spiritual wisdom in simple, usable thoughts that can have a positive impact on the body, mind and soul.
This book is a precious gift for anyone who wishes to find inner peace and joy amid the challenges of the daily grind. It is also ideal for both daily perusal and looking up something specific in difficult times.
TITLE:
Was im Alltag gut tut –
Over 30 opportunities to make life easier.
AUTHOR: Anselm Grün PUBLISHED by Verlag Herder, approx. € 12
Selection
On the edge of the Llevant peninsula nature park, near the small town of Artà in the northeast of Mallorca, renowned Mallorcan architect Toni Esteva has created a premium wellness hotel – Es Racó D’Artà. It is
sounds of nature, elegant art
minimalist architecture.
Lifestylehotels™ Directory
AUSTRIA
BAD GOISERN AM HALLSTÄTTERSEE Hallstatt Hideaway
Mountain | Lesehotel
FÜGEN Mia Alpina Zillertal Family Retreat
GEINBERG Geinberg5 Private Spa Villas
GRAZ Augarten Art Hotel
GRAZ Kai 36
GRAZ Schlossberghotel
GROSSARL Hotel Nesslerhof
HALLSTATT Hallstatt Hideaway
HINTERSTODER Triforet Alpin Resort
KALS AM GROSSGLOCKNER Gradonna Mountain Resort
KALTENBACH Das Kaltenbach
KITZBÜHEL Alpenhotel Kitzbühel am Schwarzsee
LEOGANG Puradies Mein Naturresort
LUNZ AM SEE Refugium Lunz
MARIA ALM Hotel Eder
MARIA ALM Hotel SEPP
MAYRHOFEN ElisabethHotel Premium Private Retreat
OBERGURGL The Crystal VAYA Unique
SAALBACH HINTERGLEMM Alpin Juwel
SALZBURG Hotel Goldgasse
SALZBURG Hotel Stein
SCHLADMING Stadthotel Brunner SEE Bergwiesenglück
SEEFELD/MÖSERN Nidum Casual Luxury Hotel
SERFAUS Alfa Hotel
SÖLDEN T he Secret Sölden
UDERNS IM ZILLERTAL Sportresidenz Zillertal
VIENNA Hotel Das Tyrol
VIENNA Hotel Motto
CROATIA
BRAČ Hotel Lemongarden
STARI GRAD/HVAR Maslina Resort
Sportresidenz Zillertal, Zillertal (LH 03)
Es Racó d’Artà, Mallorca (LH 04)
Gundari, Folegandros (LH 05)
Puradies, Leogang (LH 06)
K5, Tokyo (LH 07)
The Kumaon, San Miguel de Allende (LH 08)
Serra Nature Ecosmart Hotel, Sierra Calderona (LH 09)
Hotel SEPP, Maria Alm (LH 10)
Küglerhof, Dorf Tirol (LH 11)
OLM Nature Escape, Kematen (LH 12)
GERMANY
BERLIN Hotel Wilmina
CHIEMGAU Agrad Chalets
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN Seegut Zeppelin
GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN Das Graseck
PIRNA Laurichhof
TIMMENDORFER STRAND Sand
TIMMENDORFER STRAND SeeHuus
GREECE
AMALIADA/PELOPONNESE Dexamenes Seaside Hotel
FOLEGANDROS Hotel Gundari
MYKONOS The Wild by Interni
KASAR DEVI The Kumaon INDIA
ITALY
APUGLIA Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa
CAMAIORE Locanda al Colle
DEUTSCHNOFEN Pfösl Nature Hotel
DORF TIROL Küglerhof
MERANO Culinaria Living
MERANO Steinach Townhouse
MONTEFOLLONICO Follonico
RISCONE Hofergut
RIMINI i-Suite
RIPOSTO Zash Country Boutique Hotel
SANTO STEFANO DI SESSANIO Sextantio Albergo Diffuso
SICILY Monaci delle Terre Nere
SOUTH TYROL OLM Nature Escape
ST. LEONHARD Apfelhotel Torgglerhof
VENICE Hotel Heureka
JAPAN TOKYO Hotel K5
QUINTANA ROO Boca de Agua
PORTUGAL
ALENTEJO Sublime Comporta Country Retreat & Spa
ALGARVE Vila Valverde
AZORES Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort
AZORES White Exclusive Suites & Villas
LISBON Torel Palace Lisbon
PORTO Torel Avantgarde
PORTO Torel Palace Porto
PORTO Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments
SPAIN
MALLORCA Convent de la Missio
MALLORCA Es Racó d ’ Artà
MALLORCA Fontsanta Hotel Thermal Spa & Wellness
MALLORCA Hotel Can Simoneta
MALLORCA Pleta de Mar
PRIORAT Mas d'en Bruno
TENERIFE Ecohotel El Agua
VALENCIA Serra Nature Ecosmart Hotel
SWEDEN
LAPLAND Treehotel
SWITZERLAND
LUCERNE Hotel des Balances
VALLÉE DE JOUX Hotel des Horlogers
ZERMATT Hotel Matterhorn Focus
MEXICO USA
ARIZONA AmbienteTM Sedona
demand for aesthetics and quality is central to LifestylehotelsTM vision of a modern hotel industry and it is inextricably linked to its commitment to sustainability and mindfulness.
Radiant transformation
The Sportresidenz Zillertal lifestyle hotel in Tyrol shimmers, gleams and shines following a recent glow-up, which has seen the addition of new, modernised and higher-quality features in a move to bring it into the here and now. It is a symbol of reflection. A spark that ignites.
( + )
SPORTRESIDENZ ZILLERTAL Austria / Tyrol / Zillertal sportresidenz.at
Exclusive boutique hotel in the Alps with its own golf course and a 1,000 m2 wellness area complete with panoramic views.
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
Count snowflakes or golf balls. Or mountain peaks. Or simply allow your gaze to drift across the landscape. All of that’s possible in the newly built Sky Sauna on the roof, which boasts a view of the hotel’s own golf course and the Zillertal mountain range. This is where saunas and relaxation are elevated to a whole new level.
ME THERE
The Genusswerkstatt restaurant gleams in a whole new light. Host Peter Marquard and his dedicated team invite their guests to embark on a culinary journey of discovery. Emphasis is placed on seasonal dishes, Austrian classics and steaks. In summer, Genusswerkstatt also acts as the clubhouse for golf guests.
WORK, WINE AND SHINE …
Thanks to the new co-working space, there is now a specific room for undisturbed working in a stylish environment. And in the next room? Something for after you’ve finished working and for sparkling moments: an exclusive wine cellar for wine tastings or other gatherings in an intimate setting.
NO NEED TO SAY CHEESE
Your eyes will light up at the new photo point on the golf course. It’s a place to capture time. In your mind, but also in a photo thanks to the special frame.
GLOWING BRANDING
The visual identity has also been polished to a shine. The logo has been made simpler and more elegant, has momentum and features the three terms Luxury, Mountain and Golf to clearly underline the name of the hotel.
STEAK
Spain / Mallorca / Artà
esracodarta.com
Sanctuary in a unique location in the mountains of Artà on the northeast coast of Mallorca. It has numerous options to live life more consciously according to Mallorcan traditions with Asian influences.
Is it possible that a centuries-old Asian tea ceremony and a Mallorcan stone courtyard have the same stories to tell? This might seem unlikely at first glance, but upon closer inspection, the two share a deep connection: the relationship with nature, a clear simplicity and respect for traditions. At Es Racó d’Artà, a retreat on the untouched northeast coast of Mallorca, Asian influences are incorporated in a natural and harmonious way.
Es Racó d’Artà is a uniquely inspiring location in nature, with stone- and timber-built suites and casitas that boast clean lines and raw surfaces – an aesthetic you might recognise from Asian countries. So it’ll come as no surprise that the art that has been so scrupulously placed here in the form of sculptural branch-like objects comes from Japanese artist Hiroshi Kitamura. He lives in Spain and feels a connection with both cultures: “I’m not interested in the differences (of which there are thousands) but in the things we have in common.”
Cortana is the name of the fashion brand owned by Rosa Esteva. One of her stores is located at Es Racò d’Artà. Inspired by the unique landscape and Mallorca’s diverse textures, she creates fashion collections that seamlessly incorporate Japanese, Buddhist and Chinese influences, resulting in pieces like kimono-style dresses, loose cuts, Asian prints and a unisex range that overrules the duality between masculine and feminine.
Even the list of the many mindful activities and treatments to help you fully embrace the location and feel yourself is heavily geared towards Eastern cultures and their touching, energising, regulating and liberating wisdom. Yoga and meditation sessions are held every day. Sound healing is practised with traditional Indian music, Eastern songs or vibrating instruments like the hang, gong, singing bowls and the shruti box. And with Pranayama, you can regulate your breath according to Kaivalyananda practice. Spa treatments include Watsu, Shiatsu and facial acupuncture. All to help you relax under the Mallorcan sun.
ES RACÓ D’ARTÀ Spain / Mallorca / Artà
ES RACÓ D’ARTÀ
The world may well be going mad, but on a small island in the Cyclades, you’ll barely be aware of it. Everyday life here is so calm you could consider Folegandros as the embodiment of the good old days. With its rugged rocks, sparse plants and the endless expanse of the Aegean, the connection to the fundamental is particularly tangible here. The Gundari luxury resort blends seamlessly into its intimate, timeless and natural surroundings.
Folegandros is not besieged by hordes of tourists like Santorini or Mykonos. And its picturesque hiking trails, the crystal-clear sea, the charming alleyways in the old town and the breathtaking views are not excessively lauded in our Instagram feeds. The island is simply beautiful without even trying. As Erich Fried would have said: it is what it is.
A 12-kilometre road runs through the elongated island, boasting jaw-dropping views across the sparse landscape, which has earnt it the nickname “island of iron”. This unique main road links three towns, one of which is Chora – home to snow-white houses, blue doors and magenta bougainvillea that spreads cloud-like along the roads. Even in high season, you’ll still find a seat in the best tavernas in Folegandros, where the locals meet to play backgammon and card games, a glass of house wine in their hands. Or perhaps a raki with honey.
Maybe its effortless presence is also due to the fact that the 32 km2 island can only be reached by ferry or helicopter. Or that it only has a population of 600. And only a few more when the tourists arrive, as long as you are happy to consider them not as tourists but as temporary island residents. Because people who come to Folegandros will sense the stillness and meditative appeal of the island straight away and mindfully succumb to the authentic lifestyle.
The Gundari resort in the south captures the feeling, colours and calmness of the island so coherently that you might think it had always been there. The boundary between the minimalist villas and the landscape is almost invisible. It is a retreat that has been shaped by nature. For the hotel’s guests, it is an invitation to connect deeply with the surroundings and yourself – in the infinity pool that blends into the horizon, during the wellness treatments using traditional Greek methods or simply while soaking up the view into the distance. This might prompt the thought that perhaps this is one holiday tip you should only pass on to a select few.
This trail will encourage you to explore the deep connection the Puradies has forged with nature. From the sunny high plateau to the fragrant herbs on the roof – every stop shows how harmoniously the resort is interwoven into its natural surroundings. This is the Puradies adventure trail.
PURADIES Austria / Salzburg / Leogang puradies.com
Sun-kissed nature resort in the Salzburg alps with a hotel and chalets, its own farm and a spacious wellness area for the whole family.
Pure nature
STOP 1: THE SUNNY HIGH PLATEAU
In a picture-perfect, secluded location sits the Puradies nature resort, almost touching the sky, on a high plateau in Leogang. Want to bet that this place gets the most sunshine hours of the whole place?
Don’t forget your suncream!
STOP 2: AN ENCHANTED FOREST
Timber from the surrounding forest was used to build the chalets. It is also used in some of the stoves at the Puradies to keep the place nice and toasty during winter.
Open your eyes and breathe in deeply! Can you smell the resinous fragrance of spruce and pine?
GARDEN
STOP 3: THE ROOFTOP
The roofs of the new Heaven SPA are a natural paradise, where herbs and flowers bloom that don’t just attract insects but are also processed into oils and essences in the Puradies kitchen. The Puradies itself is then transformed into a blossoming sea of flowers lovingly tended by senior manager Sissi.
Observe the endless variety of colours that nature lays out for us!
STOP 4:
CHICKENS AND COWS
For generations, the Puradies has also been a traditional mountain farm. Every day, senior manager Wasti attracts large numbers of children to help him with his daily tasks – be it feeding the animals or mucking out. A particular highlight is the morning gathering of the eggs. Every egg is labelled with a room number and prepared for breakfast just how you like it. Another firm fixture on the menu is fillets of beef from the hotel’s own cows.
The animals love being stroked!
STOP
5: REGIONAL FARMERS
What the Puradies doesn’t produce itself, it sources from the region. The cheese comes from innlehenbauern, the vegetables are from Stechaubauer, the char and trout is farmed in Leogang, the milk and yoghurt comes from Liefers and the saffron is from saffron growers in Leogang.
How about visiting a Puradies partner?
Goodnight!
PURADIES Austria / Salzburg / Leogang
STOP 6: THE ROOMS
Oak, dark grey slate and light grey loden: this trilogy of native materials can be seen throughout the building and in the rooms, where you can sleep soundly after a wonderful day in nature.
EAST Go
The number five is pronounced as “go” in Japanese. And we’re happy to take them up on the invitation. Where will this journey take us? Into Tokyo’s financial district in a 100-year-old former bank, which is now called K5 and home to a hotel of the same name. The interior design is the work of Swedish architectural firm Claesson Koivisto Rune andis based on Japanese attitudes to life, which often exhibit many crossovers with Scandinavian design principles. These five design elements illustrate the ideas behind them:
COPPER DOORS
Why were the doors to the rooms made out of copper, like coins? As a tribute to the Nihonbashi-Kabutochō district as a financial hub and out of respect for the history of the building. The first branch of Dai-Ichi Bank was located here, right near the Tokyo Stock Exchange, and its founder, whose face appears on the 10,000-yen note, had an office here.
JAPANESE SHIELD FERN
The love of nature so deeply rooted in the architecture of both Sweden and Japan is evident on all floors of K5. Mostly because the immediate surroundings have very little green space to offer. The numerous potted plants, such as the Japanese shield fern (which happens to symbolise money), fiddle-leaf fig and monstera, represent people’s appreciation for nature.
TAKETE AND MALUMA
Takete, a low black lounge chair with an angular design that looks like a piece of paper that has been folded precisely into an origami figure, and Maluma, a voluminous red sofa with soft, rounded lines, are symbols of the peaceful coexistence of opposites. Despite their differences, the designs created especially for the hotel by Claesson Koivisto Rune pair well to form a cohesive whole in the space.
THE WAVE
Like a large round pillar, the beds in the hotel rooms are cocooned in curtains dyed with indigo to give an ombré effect. The sheer white and blue fabric is symbolic of the movement of a wave. Something vague. Aimai. That’s the name of the concept that, in architecture, is characterised by flowing transitions and a lack of clear definitions. Spaces can be used in a variety of ways because there’s no strict room concept. This openness also creates space in your thoughts.
FIVE FLOORS
While you’ll be encouraged to be curious about other rooms on the lower two floors due to the fluid room dividers in the form of open shelves, and to move through the café, restaurant and bar or even browse the monthly pop-up store with local brands and independent shops, the upper floors are designed to be a silent retreat. The interior design addresses the senses in various ways and promotes a mindful appreciation.
In the mountains of India, you’ll find the meaning of life, or so they say. Especially at Hippie Hill, as described a few pages ago. The spiritual radiance of the Kasar Devi Temple extends all the way to The Kumaon, a design retreat with minimalist architecture by Pradeep Kodikara and Jineshi Samaraweera and plenty of space and tranquillity for the healing search for truth, wisdom and freedom. We scale the peak of regeneration with these five experiences, which make a stay at the remote resort so unlike any other:
YOGA AND MEDITATION
You can of course practise both of these in almost any location. But nowhere does it feel anywhere near as natural as here in the place where it all started. At The Kumaon itself, there are daily sessions to enhance flexibility, strength and mindfulness. They take place outdoors in harmony with the surroundings. The Kasar Devi Temple is also a good yoga and meditation spot and has already captivated celebrities like Bob Dylan and Timothy Leary.
FIDDLEHEAD
No, we’re not talking about music. The vegetable just looks similar to the snail shape of the neck of the instrument. It comes from the Kumaon forests and is the perfect example of the flavour of the Himalayas, as well as being representative of the hotel’s farm-to-table concept. Ingredients from the surrounding area are transformed here into unique dishes using modern techniques, resulting in countless “mmms” and “ooohs”.
CHHOLIYA
The traditional Chholiya sword dance is performed during the dance shows at The Kumaon, with the dancers wearing garments in vivid colours and moving to the rhythm of drums and the sound of the Shehnai wind instrument. The vibrating movements symbolise the pride of the population and tell stories of the Himalayas. The upbeat rhythms and powerful presence of the dancers invite you to stop and consciously enjoy the moment.
BIRDS
The blaze of colour of the birds in the Himalayas is magical, their song is captivating. The feeling of freedom they convey when they float through the air, somewhere between the sky and the earth, is indescribable. You don’t need to be a passionate birdwatcher to feel their impact.
The following species of bird with almost fairy-tale-sounding names are native to the area: Koklass Pheasant, Cheer Pheasant, Red-billed Blue Magpie, White-throated laughingthrush, Rufous Sibia, Grey-winged Blackbird, Great Barbet, Himalayan Woodpecker, Brown-fronted Woodpecker, Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Indian Black Eagle, Sparrowhawk, Indian Verditer Flycatcher, Grey-headed Flycatcher, Yellow-browed Tit, Green-tailed Sunbird, Black-throated Sunbird, Himalayan Griffon and Scalybreasted Munia.
And in winter they are joined by the migratory birds White-capped Redstart, Blue-capped Redstart and Common Rosefinch.
VIEW
During the day, it’s the majestic and snowcapped mountains and the lush forests of the Himalayas that help to cast your thoughts away into the distance and achieve a broad enough perspective. During the night, it is the clear, starry sky that tempts you to enter a dream world. With special guides, we discuss Indian folklore and myths relating to constellations, using the stars as nature’s map and observing planets like Venus and Mars using telescopes.
Healing Himalayas
THE KUMAON India / Kasar Devi / Uttarakhand thekumaon.com
A secluded retreat in the Himalayas where minimalist architecture meets deep spiritual experiences.
Breathe in the scent of oranges and the sea breeze, enjoy the colourful buildings and colourful paella, visit modern and traditional museums, stroll through El Cabanyal and El Carmen: a trip to Valencia is varied and inspiring. And yet the city can sometimes be too much, like being overwhelmed in daily life. So it’s good when you know places that can help you to reconnect with yourself. Places like Sierra Calderona, a Mediterranean nature park to the north of the city where you’ll find the Serra Nature eco resort. Why not try doing things the other way round –a holiday in the oasis of tranquillity and a brief excursion to Valencia?
It’s no wonder that Valencia is one of the most popular cities in the world. The Spanish city by the sea is rich in culture and history, has a buzzing food scene and beautiful beaches. It smells of oranges and paella, the old town El Carmen is just as worthy of a visit as the El Cabanyal harbour area, and you’ll face tricky decisions like choosing whether to go to the Museo Fallero or Plaza de Toros. Guests of Serra Nature can explore the diverse city with a professional guide and allow themselves to get swept away by its exuberance, and then refocus entirely on the grounding experience in the breathtaking nature park.
And breathe deeply among the fragrant pines and striking rock formations. There’s no sound, no appointments or other distractions that so often occupy us in everyday life. There’s also no museum, no bar, no markets. At Serra Nature, you’re simply immersed in nature, between the sky and the earth, in your own villa with an infinity pool and a terrace. Just for you. There’s no one to distract you here. In the vastness of the landscape, your soul can follow its own path and be gently guided by the natural sensations. Maybe we need a little of both: stimulation achieved through vivid experiences and stillness to process it all. Perhaps we need a reminder of the stillness every once in a while.
Vibrant Valencia
NATURE
SERENE SIERRA CALDERONA
Atrium
DEFINITION:
[ˈeɪ.tri.əm]
Noun
An internal open space at the Hotel SEPP, whose steps and seating areas are reminiscent of a piazza. Forms the heart of the building. A symbol of how old and new, nature and design, inside and outside, traditional and modern, near and far can enhance one another. Harmony arises here not as a result of equality but through the interplay of contrasts. The hotel’s haven of tranquillity for guests and employees.
STRUCTURE:
1. New glass and reclaimed wood: the atrium is located in the modern glass extension of the building clad with old firewood.
2. Natural stone and concrete walls: pebbles and granite slabs cover the floor, while the walls are clad with concrete containing scrap wood fibres.
3. California and Maria Alm: a 90-year-old olive tree grows in the middle of the atrium, originating from the west coast of the United States just like the 50-year-old Airstream sitting on the roof terrace upstairs.
4. Vintage armchair and designer lounger: the two old leather lounge chairs were already sitting in the former Eder guesthouse in 1961 – and now they’re sitting in the Hotel SEPP. They date back to the great-grandparents of young Sepp the fourth. Modern seating serves as a contrast to the heirloom pieces.
5. Inside and out: nature at the Hotel SEPP is outdoors, indoors, on the walls, in the pipes. Maria Alm’s landscape is characterised by mountains, pastures and forests. The 1.4-metre-thick root bed of the Californian tree has been concealed with old oak floorboards. The infinity pool is heated using woodchips.
EXAMPLES:
Connect with nature in the atrium and its adjacent massage room.
The atrium and its 90-year-old tree are exSEPPtional.
Shall we read together in the atrium?
Pink drink
Does an island have to be in the sea?
We don’t think so. An island can also be surrounded by green tranquillity instead of blue water.
Like the Küglerhof run by Karoline Diltz in South Tyrol, which is actually more of an extended living room than a hotel.
It’s stylish. And cosy. You can spend the whole day here and just drift. Even without the sea. That’s what the pool’s for.
By the way, it said you can only go for a swim after breakfast. Splash. But how about a few laps of the picture-postcard landscape instead, until the scent of coffee calls you in to your table?
Buongiorno and Guten Morgen. We speak German, South Tyrolean, and sometimes even some Italian and English. Let’s have a chat and a laugh!
You’re sitting comfortably – what kind of chair is this? And where can I buy this beautiful vase? You’ll have to ask Edith. Karoline’s mother. She once had a furniture shop and was in charge of the interior design here. And oh, Karoline! She can tell us a lot about the contemporary art in the hotel. By Christian Martinelli, for example, a photographer with soft yet powerful images who captures fleeting moments, a special atmosphere. Like the one you’ll experience at the Küglerhof.
What shall we do now? Maybe read for a bit. Or play Boccia? Come on, let’s head outside. Into the pasture. Roll the balls. I win! Not the game. The real victory is being together.
We let our gaze wander slightly. Here and there. Wherever our eyes spot something. A church tower, vines, a bird, the mountains.
Time for a small bowl of pasta, we are in Italy after all. And a glass of vino. Strangers have become friends by now. The hosts join in. We listen to music, discuss tonight’s BBQ and the choice of film.
When night falls, we sit down at the long table, first for a relaxed barbecue and then a movie night beneath the canopy of stars.
Round off the day with a Fusettone. What’s that? A cocktail made of bitters with grapefruit soda over ice.
Cheers to the pink drink on the green island.
– green island
KÜGLERHOF Italy / South Tyrol / Dorf Tirol kueglerhof.it
Goodnight!
Informal boutique hotel in a tranquil green setting with heavenly views, unusual design, contemporary art and friendly hosts. ( + )
An all-round
Without cycles, the world would be thrown out of balance, which could lead to disparities, chaos and stagnation. After all, as Paulo Coelho says, everything is interconnected. This means we need to make sure that everything interlocks harmoniously like cogs and stays together in motion.
success
So it can keep going forever.
This is a state that is also maintained at OLM in South Tyrol. Because the eco aparthotel takes harmony and balance into account, just like a healthy ecosystem in nature. And what better way to convey this concept than with a circle! The strong symbol is omnipresent here. It is the goal, both figuratively and literally, to get closer to the idea of eternity.
What’s circular at the hotel?
The pine bowls for the bread
The tirteln (fried pastries) from the Pustertal
The dumplings
The natural bathing pond with integrated pool
The mirrors in the rooms
The connection between Austria and Italy
The design of the resort, which looks like a UFO in a mountain pasture
The positive energy footprint thanks to ˢelf-generated energy
OLM Italy / South Tyrol / Sand in Taufers
OLM Italy / South Tyrol / Sand in Taufers olm.it
A circular, energy self-sufficient aparthotel in the rugged South Tyrolean commune of Ahrntal that promotes holistic well-being in harmony with nature.
The millstone that once stood here
The O in OLM
Which secret stories of the Japanese identity are told by the precise movements of a calligrapher?
JAPAN
How does the harmony between nature and architecture in Japan reflect the country’s profound understanding of the interplay between people and the environment?
What can you learn about Japanese culture when you look at the peaceful beauty of a Zen garden and the principle of wabi-sabi?
How can the floating walkways to a Japanese tea ceremony open up the path to a deeper connection with the Japanese soul?
What is revealed about Japan’s vision of the future by looking at the futuristic design for Expo 2025?
In what way is the Japanese aesthetic in the art of Ikebana a reflection of the relationship between transience and permanence in culture?
What can we learn from the simultaneous simplicity and complexity of Shodō about the inner peace and discipline of Japanese people?
How do the Japanese culture, tradition and innovation manage to unite in a way that captures the global zeitgeist?
What is the meaning behind the silent presence of nature in Japanese art and architecture inspired by Zen Buddhism and Shinto?
Can you better understand the character of a country through its culinary diversity or through the spiritual depth of its traditions?
How can the aesthetic perception of Japanese society and the tradition of minimalism challenge the western world?
What parallels can be drawn between the art of origami and the Japanese concept of transformation and way of life?
Could the meditative practice of Shodō lead to a new global understanding of art and spirituality?
Expo 2025 in Osaka promises to be a spectacular event, with 161 countries presenting their most innovative and unique pavilions. Here is our architectural guide to our top five pavilions.
SWITZERLAND
Switzerland might actually attract all the attention with its pavilion at Osaka 2025. The theme of the Expo is “Designing future society for our lives”, and Switzerland has decided to celebrate the topic of nature and its coexistence with people. The pavilion was designed by Manuel Herz Architects and the result is simply stunning. Five spherical structures appear to grow out of a green landscape, almost as if they are rising up from a flower bed. The key feature is that the pavilion has the smallest environmental footprint of all the pavilions at the Expo. The exhibition spaces are made up of a film supported by an extremely lightweight structure, weighing just 400 kg – that’s just 1% of the weight of a standard building envelope! And because it’s the Swiss pavilion, the film is recyclable and will be transformed into stylish furniture after the Expo. The theme of the pavilion will change over the course of the Expo: at first, it’ll be dedicated to robotics and AI, then life sciences and health, and finally it will focus on the topic of sustainability and the climate.
Singapore returns in 2025 with a spectacular pavilion. Designed by DP Architects, the pavilion is not your typical structure – it’s a huge red sphere called “The Dream Sphere”. It is covered with over 20,000 discs made out of recycled materials and symbolises the country nicknamed the “little red dot”. The pavilion conveys to visitors a unique impression of Singapore’s culture and creativity through multimedia installations and artworks by local artists. Measuring 17 metres high and 18.5 metres wide, this seven-storey structure is a landmark of the Expo. Singapore started construction back in January 2024 and has a budget of $36 million for innovation.
Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden have united with a joint pavilion in order to highlight their long-term commitment to trust and sustainability and to present the Nordic region on the world stage. The pavilion doesn’t just display innovative solutions from Nordic countries, it also conveys the close connection with nature that’s so important in both Nordic culture and Japanese tradition.
Designed by Italian architects Michele De Lucchi and AMDL Circle, the Nordic pavilion consists of a 1,200 m², 17-metre-high timber structure that embodies timeless and sustainable ways of thinking. The architecture of the pavilion is conceived in such a way that it can be reused after the Expo, which reflects the green approach that’s so widespread in the Nordic countries. In addition to meeting rooms and a business centre, there is an exhibition space and a roof terrace with a restaurant and a Nordic garden.
NETHERLANDS
The Dutch pavilion glows with an innovative design: RAU Architects have created an artificial “sun”, which sits on the roof of the building. This sun doesn’t just symbolise the rising of the sun in homage to its Japanese host, it also makes reference to the opportunity to make the earth greener through renewable energy sources like the sun. The façade of the pavilion features waves like water, and at night the sun gleams in bright white. The theme of the pavilion revolves around water and its potential to drive the global transition to renewable energies. Interactive exhibits show visitors the possibilities of water as an emission-free energy source. Following the Expo, the pavilion will be entirely reused and rebuilt, making it a good example of sustainable architecture.
AUSTRALIA
Australia will amaze visitors to the Expo 2025 with its pavilion. Designed by architectural firm Buchan, the pavilion follows the theme “Chasing the sun” and is inspired by the fruit of the eucalyptus tree, known as a gumnut. The pavilion reflects the natural beauty of Australia and honours the connection of indigenous cultures with the land and water. Visitors can experience a journey through Australia’s landscape and culture, as well as participating in cultural events and business programmes. The pavilion will be open from 13 April to 13 October 2025 and is definitely going to be one of the most visited destinations at the Expo.
THE NORDIC PAVILION
BEAUTY
IN THE UNREMARKABLE
THE JAPANESE AESTHETIC IS AN INTERPLAY OF TRADITIONAL AND MODERN, OF SIMPLE AND COMPLEX. IT HAS EVOLVED OVER CENTURIES AND IS DEEPLY ROOTED IN THE COUNTRY’S CULTURE. MAJOR CONCEPTS LIKE WABI-SABI, YŪGEN AND MA DON’T JUST SHAPE ART AND ARCHITECTURE BUT ALSO DESIGN, CALLIGRAPHY AND THE WAY IN WHICH PEOPLE IN JAPAN PERCEIVE THEIR ENVIRONMENT.
ULTIMATELY, THE JAPANESE AESTHETIC IS A WAY OF LIFE, AN ATTITUDE TO THE WORLD.
WATARU KUMANO, DESIGN DIRECTOR
OF FURNITURE BRAND MAS FROM KARIMOKU
The origins of the Japanese aesthetic can be traced back to Shintō beliefs and Zen Buddhism. Both of them emphasise the impermanence of life and a life in harmony with nature. This philosophy manifests itself in the concept of wabi-sabi, which celebrates the creative power of the imperfect and the beauty of impermanence. An unglazed mug with small cracks, a weathered timber façade and an autumn landscape full of fallen leaved are expressions of this aesthetic. The conscious reduction to the essentials can also be found in yūgen, an idea that values the unsaid, the mysterious and what’s written in between the lines.
The Japanese aesthetic has been consistently moulded and expanded by the influence of other cultures. The cultural dialogue with China in particular has shaped Japanese art, architecture and calligraphy. Zen Buddhism came to Japan via China and became firmly anchored in Japanese culture, which is reflected in aspects like garden design and tea ceremonies. Later, as Japan opened itself up to the west, new materials, technologies and design principles were added that created a unique symbiosis with traditional values.
IN PRAISE OF SHADOWS
A significant work that addresses the Japanese aesthetic is Jun’ichirō Tanizaki’s essay In praise of shadows. In his writing, Tanizaki describes the importance of light and dark in Japanese culture and contrasts it with the western preference for brightness and lustre. He illustrates that true beauty often lies in the subtle gradation of shadows, in the soft twilight of a room, in the patina of old wooden surfaces and the diffuse light that penetrates through paper walls. This appreciation of all things shadowy can also be found in traditional Japanese architecture, with the selection of materials and guiding of light aiming to achieve a calm, meditative atmosphere.
INTERACTION BETWEEN PEOPLE AND OBJECTS
Japanese design has evolved from this philosophy and yet created a separate design language. Designers like Naoto Fukasawa, Oki Sato and Tokujin Yoshioka interpret traditional principles into modern concepts. Their designs stand out because they reduce things down to the essentials and pair that with a refined material choice and a deep understanding
of the interaction between people and objects. They create products that fit seamlessly into everyday life but still possess a poetic quality. This philosophy is also reflected in architecture. Works by Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma and Shigeru Ban demonstrate how traditional values can be carried over into modern architecture. Ando often works with exposed concrete and produces meditative spaces thanks to the precision of his lighting and his minimalist design language. Kuma, on the other hand, relies on natural materials and tries to blend architecture with nature, while Ban breaks new ground with innovative approaches and sustainable materials like paper. They all combine an in-depth examination of space, material and atmosphere.
PROJECT HINOKI – WORKING WITH THE ICONIC CONIFER
Of Japan’s approximately 25 million hectares of forested area, artificial forests dominated by coniferous trees such as cedar and Hinoki (Japanese cypress) cover an estimated 10 million hectares of land. Planted to meet the demands of post-World War II reconstruction,
Photos: Masaaki Inoue, Bouillon, A.Davey
IT TEACHES US TO SEE THE BEAUTY IN THE IMPERFECT, TO EMBRACE IMPERMANENCE AND TO FIND A PROFOUND HARMONY WITH OUR SURROUNDINGS.
BE IT IN ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN, ART OR EVERYDAY LIFE –IT REMAINS AN INEXHAUSTIBLE SOURCE OF INSPIRATION.
these coniferous trees are now reaching maturity. However, due to increased competition with imported timber and changes in lifestyle, they are not being fully utilised.
Furniture brand MAS by Karimoku, Japan’s leading timber company, is known for its craftsmanship with wood and was born from a dialogue with various woods from across Japan. The brand pursues the goal of creating valuable products with a universal aesthetic by exploring new methods and expressions without being bound by established rules. Wataru Kumano was appointed as design director of MAS for this project, outlining the brand’s image and commitment to leading improvements in Japanese forestry and woodworking.
The name MAS combines the familiarity of “Masu” – a traditional Japanese drinking vessel and measuring cup – with the aspiration to overcome the hurdle of using domestic materials and achieving mass production.
The focus is on the use of different types of wood, in particular Hinoki, an iconic Japanese type of conifer. The use of soft Hinoki in furniture presents various challenges, yet through Karimoku Furniture’s innovative techniques and structural
ingenuity, these are overcome, resulting in products that harness the beautiful wood grain, warm touch and soothing fragrance of Hinoki.
The history of Karimoku Furniture goes all the way back to 1940, when Shohei Kato inherited a traditional timber company and established a small woodworking shop in the city of Kariya, Aichi Prefecture. Over the decades that followed, the company manufactured various wooden components and in doing so developed a number of techniques, before releasing its own furniture collection in the 1960s. With the concept of making both technically advanced and high-quality handcrafted products, the company established production facilities in regions rich in timber and quickly grew to become one of the leading manufacturers of wooden furniture in Japan.
BLENDING BODY AND MIND
The art of calligraphy, Shodō, is another symbol of the Japanese aesthetic. It is more than the simple writing of symbols –it is an expression of emotion, movement and mindfulness. Every brushstroke carries the energy of the artist, every line is an expression of a singular moment. The blank spaces on the paper are just as important
as the drawn characters, because the concept of ma – the deliberate use of space and gaps – is critical to the overall effect of a piece. In this way, Shodō is closely linked with Zen Buddhism, as the movement of the brush requires complete concentration and the blending of mind and body. Mistakes aren’t corrected, which is why every stroke has to be made with determination and commitment. This philosophy makes Shodō a form of meditation, in which writing becomes an expression of the moment.
These principles are also present in Japanese porcelain work. Manufacturer 1616 / arita japan combines centuries-old traditional craftsmanship with modern designs. The reduction to clear forms and a subtle colour palette results in porcelain that is both timeless and innovative. It is illustrative of the connection between old and new, of tradition and progress, which is what makes the Japanese aesthetic so unique. Ultimately, the Japanese aesthetic is a way of life, an attitude to the world. It teaches us to see the beauty in the imperfect, to embrace impermanence and to find a profound harmony with our surroundings. Be it in architecture, design, art or everyday life – it remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration.
In spring 2025, Amsterdam will become the centre of a unique artistic encounter: for the first time in their history, the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam are joining forces to stage a major exhibition of works by German artist Anselm Kiefer.
ANSELM
EXHIBITION AND TICKET SALES
“Anselm Kiefer – Sag mir wo die Blumen sind” will be on display from 7 March to 9 June 2025 in Amsterdam. Tickets went on sale on 7 January. // VAN GOGH MUSEUM: With over 200 paintings, almost 500 drawings and more than 700 letters, the Van Gogh Museum has the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh. It attracts visitors from all over the world every year. // STEDELIJK MUSEUM AMSTERDAM: As the leading museum of modern and contemporary art in the Netherlands, the Stedelijk is home to a collection of over 100,000 works including those by Malevich, Mondrian, Kusama, Matisse, Koons and Dumas. The Stedelijk is not only a place to explore art’s aesthetic and historical dimensions but also a platform for addressing critical ethical and social issues, which enables it to remain a key location for art education.
From left to right: Edwin Becker and Emilie Gordenker (Curator and Director Van Gogh Museum, respectively), Anselm Kiefer, Rein Wolfs and Leontine Coelewij (Director and Curator Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, respectively), April 2024
Under the title “Sag mir wo die Blumen sind” (Where have all the flowers gone), a broad spectrum of Kiefer’s works will be displayed between 7 March and 9 June 2025, including monumental paintings, installations, films and works on paper. Particular focus will be given to his artistic juxtaposition with Vincent van Gogh and his longstanding connection to the Dutch art scene.
A key highlight of the exhibition is a new, immersive painted installation by Anselm Kiefer measuring an impressive 24 metres long. This piece, which was created especially for the Stedelijk Museum, fills the space around the museum’s historic staircase and is a striking example of how Kiefer works with materials, history and symbolism. Kiefer’s examination of nature, the cycle of life and death and traces of the past are further focal points condensed into his works.
ANSELM KIEFER AND VINCENT VAN GOGH: ARTISTIC JUXTAPOSITION
At the Van Gogh Museum, the enduring influence of Vincent van Gogh on Kiefer’s work is the central element. Back in 1963, Kiefer travelled through Europe in the footsteps of the Dutch painter and found lasting inspiration in his life and work. The exhibition won’t just display seven of Van Gogh’s key pieces, including the iconic Wheatfield with Crows (1890), it will exhibit them in direct juxtaposition with Kiefer’s monumental paintings of the same theme. In addition, previously unseen works by Kiefer will be on display, including early drawings as evidence of his artistic background.
Emilie Gordenker, director of the Van Gogh Museum, adds: “Anselm Kiefer has been engaged with Van Gogh’s work since his early years. Kiefer’s recent work –displayed here for the first time – shows how Van Gogh continues to make his mark on his work today. Sometimes the inspiration is almost literal, as in the use of sunflowers and the composition of his landscapes.”
KIEFER’S RELATIONSHIP TO THE DUTCH ART SCENE
In its exhibit, the Stedelijk Museum places the focus on Kiefer’s long connection with the Netherlands. Back in the early 1980s, the museum acquired the artists’ key pieces, such as Innenraum (1981) and Märkischer Sand (1982), and staged a major solo exhibition of his works in 1986. This new retrospective makes it possible to juxtapose earlier works with his latest pieces. The Steigend, steigend, sinke nieder installation is a particular highlight, which combines photographs and Kiefer’s recurring medium lead – a symbol of the heavy burden of human history.
Rein Wolfs, director of the Stedelijk Museum, explains: “The Stedelijk has a long relationship with Anselm Kiefer and has played an important role in the acceptance of the artist’s work.
Top left: The Starry Night , 2019, emulsion, oil, acrylic, shellac, straw, gold leaf, wood, wire, sediment of an electrolysis on canvas, 470 x 840 cm.
Photo: Georges Poncet
Right: Innenraum , 1981, oil, acrylic and paper on canvas, 287.5 x 311 cm, collection Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam
Voyage au bout de la nuit , 1990 (foreground), lead, glass and mixed media, 239 x 750 x 750cm, Untitled , 1989, 340 x 501 x 100cm, collection Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam
The two monumental installations created especially for our museum highlight this relationship rather remarkably. It is a rare opportunity to experience Kiefer’s works from different periods of his creative life.”
THE TITLE OF THE EXHIBITION:
“SAG MIR WO DIE BLUMEN SIND”
The title of the exhibition “Sag mir wo die Blumen sind” is taken from the 1955 protest song Where have all the flowers gone by Pete Seeger, which became famous when Marlene Dietrich performed it. Kiefer’s exhibition of the same name at the Stedelijk Museum deals with this theme poetically and profoundly: it combines paint and clay with uniforms, dried rose petals and gold to depict the cycle of life and death. The flowers in the title also allude to Van Gogh’s Sunflowers (1889) and
Kiefer’s earliest landscapes, which will be seen for the first time as part of this exhibition.
ANSELM KIEFER: AN ARTIST BETWEEN THE PAST AND THE PRESENT
Anselm Kiefer, born in 1945 in post-war Germany, has been artistically addressing German history since the late 1960s. His often monumental pieces broach the subjects of history, mythology, literature and philosophy, and elicit both admiration and controversy. While Kiefer’s artworks initially met with rejection, they were appreciated in the Netherlands early on, especially by collectors and museums like the Stedelijk. Today, Kiefer is one of the most significant contemporary artists worldwide.
What role does a strong network play in the art world, especially for institutions like Phileas?
Margherita Belcredi: Networks are essential in the art world – they facilitate discussion, the contextualisation of artworks and the continued development of artistic practices. This is precisely the reason why Phileas was founded around ten years ago. Our vision was to support artists by closing structural gaps in networking.
Through numerous conversations with artists, we identified that there is excellent infrastructure in Austria – with many institutions, universities and teaching programmes. However, what is often lacking is the opportunity to gain a stronger foothold internationally. A study has also shown that international curators and institutions have minimal access to the Austrian art scene.
This is where Phileas comes in: we are building bridges between artists and international networks to help make them more visible around the world. It’s not just a case of sending Austrian artists abroad, but also inviting international players to Austria so they can become better acquainted with the situation here.
What are the challenges in establishing and maintaining an international art network?
One of the biggest challenges is definitely that there are so many exciting artistic positions that we want to draw attention to. With our Visitor Programme, we invite around 30 international curators every year to familiarise themselves with the Austrian art scene. This leads to in-depth conversations and fruitful collaborations. But the actual challenge lies in the longterm maintenance of these networks. It’s not enough to establish contact with someone once – you need to remain in constant dialogue. At the same time, there is always the feeling that you could be doing more. Every conversation opens new doors, reveals new perspectives. This means our work is a dynamic, never-ending process.
How do networks influence the careers of artists, curators and the collaboration between art institutions?
Networks are often the crucial factor in an artistic career. A curator who’s interested in a particular piece of work can open doors that otherwise would remain closed. The constant discussion – not just with institutions but also with artists – is essential for the development of their own work.
We consider our role in this as supporting international discussion between artists, curators and art institutions. One of our primary concerns is drawing attention to the incredibly vibrant art scene, with figures ranging from established artists and institutions to offspaces and an emerging generation of new artists.
How has international networking in the art world changed in recent years?
International networking was essential even before coronavirus, but because of the restrictions imposed during the pandemic, we became even more aware of how important in-person discussion is. It showed that online communication is possible, but art often requires direct encounters –both with artworks and with people.
MARGHERITA BELCREDI, AN ART HISTORIAN AND THE NEW DIRECTOR OF PHILEAS, TALKS ABOUT THE VALUE OF INTERNATIONAL NETWORKS IN THE ART WORLD. WE COVERED THE IMPORTANCE OF DISCUSSION, NEW CHALLENGES BEING FACED AND WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR PHILEAS.
There is also a greater awareness of sustainability now. Many art institutions and galleries are considering how they can minimise their environmental footprint –be it through more sustainable transport routes or increasingly exchanging resources. A good example of this is the biennials, which work together closely to display pieces more than once and therefore act more sustainably. We are thinking along the same lines at Phileas and collaborate with peer organisations that are similarly striving to support contemporary art in their countries. For example, between us, we invite international guests to visit from overseas and organise curatorial exchange visits. In this way, we can support each other rather than duplicating resources.
Which new projects and collaborations are coming up for Phileas?
We have lots of exciting projects in the pipeline! In 2025, Phileas will collaborate with biennials in Berlin, Helsinki, Liverpool and Santa Fe, as well as museums and institutions in Barcelona, Ghent, Hambug, Houston, Copenhagen, London and Turin, in order to present 18 new projects by artists from and living in Austria.
We also want to continue and expand our Art Writing programme, through which we support young art critics. Being an art critic is difficult at the moment – the pay is low and for many freelance critics the situation is precarious. We have therefore organised workshops in collaboration with renowned magazines like Frieze to open up new perspectives for young authors.
Tanja Widmann, Jonny 3 (from the series from or for), 2022, installation view at miart 2022, FELIX GAUDLITZ, Milan.
Photo: courtesy of the gallery
Greta Schödl, installation view of Street Poetry at Phileas, 2025.
Photo: KunstDokumentation.com / Manuel Carreon Lopez
Marit Wolters, Grete’s Legacy, 2021, installation view at Villa Tugendhat, Brno.
Photo: Sophie Dvořák
Claudia Larcher, AI and the Art of Historical Reinterpretation, installation view at VALIE EXPORT Center Linz, 2022–2024.
Photo: courtesy of the artist
“Art requires discussion”
We are also continually working to make Austrian art more visible at international biennials. In 2023, we initiated Austria’s participation in the Gwangju Biennale –one of the most important biennials in Asia. The Korean art market is gaining in importance and offers enormous potential for Austrian artists.
How do you measure the success of projects supported by Phileas?
Since Phileas’ ten-year anniversary, we have reflected a lot and taken stock: we have supported over 250 new works of contemporary art, brought more than 120 international curators to Austria and initiated numerous collaborations.
But success isn’t just measured in numbers. Sometimes a project emerges out of a single conversation, sometimes it takes years for an idea to come to fruition. Our ideal cycle is as follows: a curator
PHILEAS
discovers an artistic position in Austria and subsequently invites the artist to an international biennial, where they attract attention. In the best case, this leads to the artwork being added to a museum collection. Such long-term developments show that our work has an impact.
How important is it to promote women at Phileas?
The promotion of women is a key concern for us. When selecting our projects, we are conscious of showing strong support for female positions. In the art industry, it is essential to specifically support women and give them opportunities.
Phileas itself is now almost entirely staffed by women – and that hasn’t happened by chance. I personally have been lucky to have the support of great women during my career, and I want to continue this principle. There need to be more female
Phileas, the Austrian Office for Contemporary Art, supports artists, curators, galleries and institutions in Austria and works to strengthen their presence on the international landscape of contemporary art. Through long-term partnerships with museums, biennials and art institutions around the world, we enable the production and exhibition of new artworks and their donation to public collections. phileas.art
role models in leadership positions and support networks in particular.
What is your vision for the future of Phileas?
We want to expand our work, build new bridges and establish more international collaborations. And the intention then is for it to be possible to see this international work here in Austria, too: since 2023, we have had a space on the Opernring where we display pieces tthat we have previously co-produced internationally with museums or biennials. In doing so, we create a connection between the international and the local art scene. Our goal remains to increase the visibility of contemporary Austrian art at an international level – at biennials, through exchange programmes and through strategic partnerships. And we are looking forward to expanding this network further.
Performance by Lau Lukkarila & Luca Bonamore, Club Liaison, Austrian pavilion at the 15th Gwangju Biennale, 2024. Photo: Swan Park
CONNECTION IS EVERYTHING. WITHOUT IT, LIFE EXPERIENCES AREN’T AS FULFILLING. HAPPINESS IS REAL WHEN IT IS SHARED. READ THIS MEDITATION TO OTHERS AND HAVE OTHERS READ IT TO YOU TO ELEVATE YOUR FEELINGS OF CONNECTION AND HAVE MORE FUN.
CONNECTION
NIRAJ NAIK
is a professional musician and pharmacist turned holistic health and breathwork expert. He started his path in healing others as a community pharmacist, yet after several years he found himself a patient with stress-related depression and ulcerative colitis.
This was a wake-up call that made him embark on a journey of profound self-healing and education. He created a global community of heart-centered changemakers by founding SOMA Breath – a global breathwork and wellness movement with over 3,500 certified instructors, and hundreds of thousands of students around the globe.
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CLOSE YOUR EYES.
Take a deep breath... hold it for a few seconds... relax your shoulders, your jaw, your neck... and release the breath.
Inhale again deeply... hold it for a few seconds... relax your shoulders, relax your body... and release the breath.
With your eyes closed, imagine there’s a golden light beaming from your heart – like a wave of light, a shiny, bright light expanding through the room and growing bigger and bigger and bigger. This wave emanating from your chest is growing, filling the entire room. Now imagine it filling up the city... the continent... and the whole world.
This beam of bright, shiny, warm, beautiful light emanating from your heart is touching every single human being in the world. Imagine how that light is making every person feel the same warmth, the same love, the same light.
Now, repeat these words in your head. As you say them, imagine every single person in the world is thinking and feeling the exact same words:
I AM STRONG, CAPABLE, LOVING, HARMONIOUS AND HAPPY.
I AM STRONG, FULFILLED, CAPABLE, HARMONIOUS AND HAPPY.
I AM STRONG, FULFILLED, CAPABLE, HARMONIOUS AND HAPPY.
Notice how good these words feel in your heart. Imagine these words in everyone’s consciousness – every single person in the world believes and feels they are strong, harmonious, complete, loving and happy.
What does it feel like to be in a world where everyone is in harmony, satisfied, complete and caring for one another? What does it feel like to care for others, to love others as much as you love yourself? Feel that connection.
Take that feeling and let it sink into your consciousness. Let every single cell in your body bathe in this bright light. Let this light brighten the cells of every single person in the world.
Now, as you walk through your day, whenever you make eye contact with someone, you will feel and imagine this bright light coming out of your chest, making you feel love. Imagine how that light will touch the other person’s heart. Imagine how it will make them feel love.
As you walk through your day, notice how your communication and interactions become brighter, more fun and deeply fulfilling.
