PALM BEACH
FEBRUARY 2022
LUXURY MAGAZINE
AMERICAN
POLO PLAYER
NIC
ROLDAN
$20.00 USD Fashion | Luxury | Profiles | Features | Shopping | Travel | Art | Design | Auto | Food | Health
25A
2
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
3
ORIGINS OF MILLINERY 4
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Jennifer Kofler; owner of Vivian Blooms
February 2022
5
25A
The Nature of Jean 6
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
S
chlumberger.
February 2022
7
JUPITER COAST 25A
8
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Photographer David Scarola February 2022 9
25A
10
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Photography – Kailas www.kailasphotography.com Stylist/Set - Tess Parker www.tessparker.com MUA – Mitch Yoshida www.mitchyoshida.com Hair - Tomo Aki Sato www.tomoaki-sato.com Model – Kendal Miller www.fordmodels.com Jewelry – Hernan Herdez www.hernanherdez.com February 2022
11
25A
Photographer: Kailas Michael www.kailasphotography.com 12 Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
13
25A
Photography: Jason Konrad Model: Macy Sadler
14
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
15
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
25A
16
"Playing polo is like trying to play golf during an earthquake." - Sylvester Stallone
How does Metropolitan Palm Beach keep pace with the star power of our recent cover stars, Hall of Fame Quarterback Joe Namath and the golf world’s GOAT, Jack Nicklaus? Simple. I ask Creative Director extraordinaire Margaret Bastick Luce to interview America’s #1 rated Polo Player Nic Roldan, the highest rated American Polo Player on the planet with an 8-goal handicap rating. The youngest polo player in the world to win the prestigious U.S. Open Polo title at the age of 15, Roldan has captained Team USA on multiple occasions and played the Argentine Triple Crown which signifies the highest level of the sport internationally. That’s what Metropolitan Palm Beach is all about, beyond entertaining, informing and delighting our readers. The pursuit of excellence. Enjoy!
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
©2021 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated. CT HIC #0657205. Photo: Stefan Radtke.
From simple to intricate designs, California Closets systems are custom designed specifically for you and the way you live.
californiaclosets.com
@caliclosetsnyc
GREENVALE 25 Northern Blvd, Greenvale 516.334.0077 CONNECTICUT 565 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203.924.8444
February 2022
17
EDITOR’S NOTE
25A
"What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." —William Shakespeare Getting to chat with Sue Phillips, one of the world’s leading fragrance experts, is resonant and unforgettable. From her melodious South African accent to her elegant demeanor, it’s no wonder that Phillips was entrusted to create classic fragrances for Tiffany, Burberry Diane Von Furstenburg and a number of other major brands. Sue has encyclopedic knowledge about fragrance variations and the sense of smell, which she has recently put to good use to help folks regain their lost sense of smell due to Covid. Cover Star Nic Roldan is no stranger to Publisher Chase Backer, Sylvester Stallone and the rest of Palm Beach’s polo enthusiasts. Roldan is the number 1 polo player in America, captaining the US Polo Team when he’s not busy with philanthropic and entrepreneurial endeavors. Margaret Bastick Luce (of course) lassoed Roldan for our cover story. Palm Beach was a childhood vacation spot for popular Beverly Hills-based artist Kelly Styne whose paintings are in high demand. Styne is just one of the many buzz-worthy artists who graces our pages along with the top contemporary artists who are a part of Rachel Vancelette's world. A new issue of Metropolitan Palm Beach to delight the senses! Enjoy!
Adam Kluger Editor in Chief Metropolitan/25A Metropolitan Palm Beach
18
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Jean Sclumberger bird perched on a Tiffany Diamond
Today, as an emblem of Tiffany & Co. and a figure who changed the world of jewelry, altering the possibilities of what can be designed from nature’s sight and transformed into emblazoning pieces, Schlumberger’s extraordinary wonders have continued. Tarra Iziah In Der Muhlen IG: @tarra_iziah_in_der_muhlen February 2022 19 Photography: Luciana Pampalone
25A
IF YOU HAVEN’ T, YOU SHOULD
A Wonderful Saturday in Palm Beach By Margaret Luce
Each issue I want to bring to you experiences both bold and benign, luxe and leisure, for long-time residents and transplants alike. South Florida has much to offer, and I want to be your personal guide. Follow me as we begin this journey together because if you haven’t, you should... Slip out of your Friday night dinner a little early and skip the dessert. It is a wise choice when you've booked the early morning Soul Cycle session. Your early morning rise and shine at the Royal Poinciana ensures you can peddle away that pasta and plan on going into a spinning trance. Kathleen Kulikowski is a true gem. Her music is upbeat and fun, with the palm trees swaying as you look out; this class goes by in a snap. Next, head to the Colony Hotel for Isaac Boots class if you want to continue your high octane burn. Isaac is the darling of the most bravo babes, getting many of us through the virtual house arrest with Covid. Our bottoms are better for it. You will get torched. After walking over to the Colony, I jet back to the Royal Poinciana with my cardio done for the day. It's time for some selfcare. I jump into Paul Labrecque Salon & Skincare spa for an eyelash tint and a customized Biologique recherché facial. Under their outstanding care and the hands of an angel, the feel of this treatment is a dream. Using LED light therapy masks and finishing with cyrosticks, my pores disappear. I am glowing. My favorite products are lotion P50 and Masque Vivant. I float out and head to my car. It’s only just afternoon, I forgo a game of golf and let my skin glow and rest. Daily Affirmation: When tempted to fast forward a soundtrack; Stop. Sometimes the music was meant to be heard in order. soulcycle.com paullabrequesalon isaacboots.com Margaret Bastick Luce IG @margaretbastickluce Use #margaretlucetip
20
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Photographer David Scarola
February 2022
21
25A
CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2022
COVER POLO PLAYER NIC ROLDAN Cover Photo by Nick Mele
FASHION 28 KAILIS PHOTOGRAPHY 32 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 40 VIVIAN BLOOMS HAT
ENTERTAINMENT 78 FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS BOCA 82 MIA PINERO PAGE 64
TASTE 56 WORTH AVE'S NEW VIA BICE SIZZLES 60 VALENCIANO CUISINE STORMS AMERICA
JET SET 46 LUXURY CRUISE SHIP SILVER MOON 74 THE GALEI KINNERET HOTEL 76 TEE IT UP AT FOX RUN GOLF CLUB
PAGE 40
22
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Wealth. It’s complicated. We don’t think your goal in life is to live in constant anxiety over how to preserve and grow your wealth. Yet for many wealthy individuals and families, it’s an all-too common fate. Because with your wealth comes complexity. Perhaps never more so than in today’s market conditions and political realities. At First Long Island Investors, we understand this better than most. For over 35 years, with us in their corner, some of Long Island’s wealthiest individuals and families have been able to better enjoy what all wealthy people are really striving for. A wealth of life. Not of worry. To put First Long Island in your corner, it’s not complicated. Just give us a call or visit our website.
516-935-1200 w fliinvestors.com
February 2022
23
25A
CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2022 PROFILE 38 54 62 64 70 72 80 108 112 118 120
THE POWER OF PERFUME DEIRDRE ARUTUNIAN & RENEE JORDAN PODCAST LE BAR A VIN POLO PLAYER NIC ROLDAN TECHNOGYM LA COQUINA'S VALENTINE PICKS INA LETTMANN THE SECRET LIFE OF A POLO PLAYER GREEN STREAM HOLDINGS, INC. ANNIE WATT ROWEN SEIBEL
ART FORM PAGE 94
84 88 93 94 98 100 104 105
PANDEMONIUM: ART OF THE PANDEMIC FOURTH ANNUAL MAMMOTH FILM FESTIVAL ARTIST ARTHUR J. WILLIAMS ARTIST KELLY STYNE ARTIST FEDERICO URIBE CAVALIER & CHASE EDWARDS GALLERIES ALEXANDER CALDER HOLDEN LUNTZ GALLERY "FASHION WITH AN EDGE"
SOCIAL 50 77 116 121
PAGE 105 24
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
FERRARI CAR SHOW REWRITING THE RULES FOURTH ANNUAL PB RACE OF HOPE AN EVENING AT ESSEX WITH COVER STARS
BLAZING WOOD.
BRILLIANT FLAMES.
AND A PRIMAL SENSE
THE GAUCHO GRILL
+1.866.781.3129
OF
CONNECTION.
K A L A M A ZO O G O U R M E T.CO M
February 2022
25
Publisher Chase Backer
25A
Editor-in-Chief Adam Kluger Assistant Publisher Jaime Backer LUXURY MAGAZINE
PALM BEACH
Creative Director Margaret Bastick Luce Art Director Lonee Telemaque
JANUARY 2022
Assistant Editor Willy Nichter Copy Editors Sean Buttimer; Whitney Thompson; Maribel Alvarez; Lillian Langtry; Nicole Ashley Schubert Lifestyle Editor Elizabeth Langevin
American Sports Royalty
Features Editor Jadan Horyn
Barbara & Jack
Nicklaus
$20.00 USD Fashion | Luxury | Profiles | Features | Shopping | Travel | Art | Design | Auto | Food | Health
Luxury Editor Stephanie L. Howitt Editor at Large | Art, Culture Douglas Evans Fashion Photographers Pablo Schreiterer; Luciana Pampalone
PALM BEACH NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021
LUXURY MAGAZINE
Elizabeth
PIPKO Model, Author & Political Activist
$20.00 USD Fashion | Luxury | Profiles | Features | Shopping | Travel | Art | Design | Auto | Food | Health
Profiles Editor Alexandra Appino-Tabone Social Editor Clara Morgan Food Editor Andrea Correale; Maribel Alvarez Digital Media Director Nancy Molina Make-up Peggy Mackey Contributors Rachel Vancelette, D.D. Rice, Paul Prince, Peter Elston, Johnny Angel, Harry White Contributing Photographers David Scarola, Matt Licari, Rene Bernal, tama66, pixel2013, Michael Gaida, Michael Paniccia, Jay Mathews, Filip Shobot, Chris Carroll, Lenny Stucker, Patrick McMullan, MA , Tom Fitzgerald and Pam Deutchman, Sandy Ramirez, Jan Klier, Mitchel Gray, Paul Prince, Kristiina Wilson For advertisement info: 646-300-1852 Info@metmagny.com | metmagny.com Facebook.com/metropolitanmagazinepb | Twitter.com/metmagny Writers, models, musicians and photographers, please inquire.
© Copyright 2021 by Metropolitan Magazine, All rights reserved. Metropolitan is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as such and unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Metropolitan magazine’s right to edit.
26
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Manhattan, NYC, Milan, Sardinia
February 2022
27
kailas photography
25A
28
Model Naomi Somolu @naomisomolu Photographer KAILAS @kailasmichael Stylist Davis Carrasquillo @daviscarrasquillo Makeup Nevio Ragazzini @fnevior Hair Risako @risako_hair
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Red hat, burgundy fringed turtleneck shirt, and burgundy vinyl pants by Victoria Hayes. Green yellow top by ZELL. Red vinyl gloves by Wing and Weft.
February 2022
29
25A
Photography: Pablo Schreiterer
30
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Purple jacket, purple bell bottom pants, and white earrings by Victoria Hayes. Yellow leather gloves by Wing and Weft. Light Ros The Whole Big bag by Thaden.
February 2022
31
25A
DESIGNER
MALAN BRETON DEBUTS HIS FALL/WINTER COLLECTION
DURING NYFW
F
By Ann Grenier
or 2022, Malan Breton presented Fantôme, a collection of fine jewelry, ready to wear, and evening wear inspired by the 1982 Ridley Scott film “Blade Runner” starring the actress Sean Young, at Runway 7 during NYFW. The collection plays off the sensitive themes of conscience, morality, vision, empathy, dystopia, and vision. The award-winning designer and costumer – as well as film and music video director, producer, musician, columnist, and photographer – celebrated his 25th year in the fashion industry as he debuted his Fall/Winter 2022 Collection. Daughter of Kelsey and Camille Grammer Mason Grammer, iconic 1990s supermodel Irina Pantaeva, Billboard recording artist Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, New York City Ballet dancer Georgina Pazcoguin and Project Runway’s Mimi Tao walked in the runway show, which featured Breton’s signature tailored women’s
Photo credit Getty Image and Dave Warren 32
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
33
25A suiting, chic wrap coats with fur collars, and voluminous ball gowns. As part of his presentation, the designer debuted his new interactive couture NFT – created as a 3D animation – by which loyalists can, via photo scan, become fully animated avatar supermodels, complete with a Malan Breton wardrobe, but of course. Actor Titus Burgess, Broadway star Danny Burstein of Moulin Rouge, and America’s Next Top Model’s Miss J Alexander were front row to see Malan Breton latest collection. Presented as part of NYFW x Runway 7, the forty-six-look collection featured futuristic soft ethereal silhouettes created in silk chiffon, silk brocade, cashmere, and leather with strong silhouettes in day, evening, and red-carpet wear. The collection featured live music, dance, and film elements produced by the members of the social media platform SohoMuse. Models were styled by celebrity stylist Montgomery Frazier. The show also included his famous suiting, that has been worn by celebrities on the red carpets of the BAFTAS, The AMA’s, TONY Awards, to the Emmys. Breton is known as the “master of the women’s suit” in the United Kingdom, “Fashion United” The collection is partially constructed of reclaimed materials. Breton, famous for stirring up standing ovations at NYFW, MQVFW, Shenzhen Fashion Week, and London Fashion Week, will present a multimedia experience to the audience. Breton recently won the 2021 London Fashion Film Festival award for co-directing the film “IMMORTAL” and was an official selection of the Cameramoda, Cinecitta sponsored fashion film festival Fashion Film Festival Milan. Film is an important part of the design process for Breton, who writes a movie script each season, and designs fashion for his characters, composes music, creates animations, and visual esthetics, to tell a story that will follow the collections to their vendors all over the world. This collection celebrates the 25th anniversary of Malan Breton in fashion, a journey that began in NYC, it was important for him to bring this collection back to his humble beginnings in fashion, NYC, a place very dear to his heart. Where he presented his first collections at Bryant Park as a part of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. Breton had presented his collections on schedule at London Fashion Week since 2017, before that NYFW… www.malanbreton.com www.sohomuse.com www.runway7fashion.com
34
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
35
25A
www.agentprovocateur.com 36
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Agent Provocateur Lingerie
February 2022
37
25A
THE
S
How to Choose It, Wear it and Enjoy It! with Fragrance Expert Sue Phillips By Adam Kluger
ue Phillips, one of the world’s most renowned fragrance experts, has created fragrances for brands, celebrities, and connoisseurs at her ultra-chic and discreet House of Fragrance Atelier in New York. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Sue takes her clients on a journey of scents, sharing secrets, histories, and the effect of the rarest of ingredients she has collected throughout her storied career. Their bespoke perfume formula is recorded in the database and can be reordered at any future time. Now, “The Nose that Knows” finally relates her relationship with fragrances. Sue’s long-awaited and much-anticipated book The Power of Perfume: How to Choose It, Wear it and Enjoy It! (Central Park South Publishing Company; $19.95) is finally here. http:// www.thepowerofperfume.com The 240 page book, available in bookstores worldwide and on Amazon, is filled with highlights from Sue’s career, myths about perfume, and little-known facts about the intoxicating effect of fragrance on all of your senses. The Power of Perfume: How to Choose It, Wear it and Enjoy It! also includes photos of celebrities Sue has worked with throughout her career: Hollywood elite, from Katie Holmes to Jamie Foxx and Zendaya, 38
and the late Cicely Tyson. There’s plenty more in Sue’s book, but to reveal it would ruin the surprise. It’s an homage to perfumes, fragrances, and scents (whichever you want to call them) and how they help people gain confidence, reflect their individuality, and create a signature. ‘Why wear what everyone else wears when you can create your own?’ Sue Phillips, a native of South Africa, is a resident of New York. An internationally recognized expert on fragrance, she has worked in senior-level positions at many of the beauty industry’s top companies, including Elizabeth Arden (working on licensees Chloe and Lagerfeld), Lancaster on the Davidoff brands and Chopard, Trish McEvoy (developed her first 3 fragrances); Lancôme Paris (Magie Noire) and Burberry, where she created scents for its “Society by Burberry” brand. It was at Tiffany & Co., that Phillips achieved her renown: creating its first-ever perfume TIFFANY, which became one of the company’s top sellers. She followed that up with Tiffany for Men. Global luxury beauty companies, Elizabeth Arden and Lancȏme hired Sue Phillips for her marketing expertise, followed by Tiffany & Co. who recruited Sue as VP Marketing Fragrance, where she spearheaded the development, creation, and
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
launch of the successful TIFFANY perfume for their 150th Anniversary internationally. From Tiffany, Sue established her company Scenterprises Inc. and designed and launched fragrances for Society by Burberry, Burberry for Men, Diane von Furstenburg, and many other well-known brands. Throughout her career, Sue’s passion, ability, and ingenuity have resulted in her being at the forefront of innovation and always delivering quality products and experiences to her clients. “My mission,” she says, “is to lift fragrance out of the bottle and to create memorable fragrance experiences”. Sue, you became a brand ambassador and influencer for Tiffany and other major brands. Why did you leave Tiffany? When I left Tiffany to have my daughter that's when I started my own business Scenterprises (https:// suephillips.com/scenterprises/) and it has been extraordinary. When I left Tiffany and started my own business I was retained to develop a fragrance for Burberry and the Trish McEvoy fragrances and then Avon retained me to develop several different business models, so I was creating and developing many
innovative fragrances and businesses for all these companies and then in 2008 the economy crashed so this is when I started thinking about what's next? The designer fragrances and the celebrity fragrances were really being proliferated and there was so much confusion in the marketplace and after the crash, nobody was interested in fragrances at that point so I started thinking about bespoke or custom-made fragrance. So, at this stage, I had become a fragrance expert and I knew about fragrances, and the history of fragrance and I developed 18 different perfumes to expand the entire olfactive palate. I worked from my apartment and offered custom fragrances to people who wanted to create their own custom fragrances. This was in 2009-2010 just at the start of the personalization trend. People said to me," what are you doing? Tupperware parties for fragrances?" and they laughed at me. Now, as we know, personalization is the hottest trend and everybody is a brand. Social media is everywhere, and Instagram, Pinterest, Linked-in, clubhouse, Facebook, TikTok, Twitch and Clubhouse is popular and everybody is a brand. In 2013 I opened my first perfume studio in TriBeCa which I called the Scentarium and I turned it into a beautiful oasis. People like Jamie Foxx and Katie Holmes would come by. I presented corporate events and small team-building events and it was so cozy with such a lovely ambiance and perfectly suited for a custom fragrance experience. I was there for 12 years and sadly because of Covid in March of 2020 I had to move because the building was being sold and the pandemic happened So, serendipitously I found a new location But all of this is to say that the whole idea of custom perfumes has really taken off and as the pandemic subsides, more and more clients are coming in to create their own Custom Perfumes. People love the idea of custom fragrances and reflecting their individuality and personality. We present corporate and teambuilding events and many consultations and sessions through zoom. Tell us about your book. Last year I wrote a book entitled The Power of Perfume, and because of Covid, sadly so many people have lost their sense of smell. I have now helped over 100 people regain and rediscover their sense of smell after Covid through the power of perfume. Many people have found me through press outlets like NBC which ran a profile on my book. I was asked if I could help a long-hauler regain her sense of smell and I said I would try. She had lost her sense of smell in March of 2020 and NBC did an interview with us an asked if they could bring in someone with Anosmia. It was amazing as she had a breakthrough. Halfway through the perfume journey, she was trying 18 layers and then she suddenly said, "I smell something and it's beautiful, ' and she started to cry and it was so emotional. And so that program went viral and I appeared on Inside Edition and GMA and literally
hundreds of programs and as a result of that I've had so many people contact me and they realize how important their Sense of Smell is. I explain to clients that I'm not sure I can help, and I am not a doctor but I will certainly try as I know the power of fragrance and my blends are beautiful and complex. As a result I've actually been able to help Covid sufferers of all ages through my passion for fragrance. Future plans? I am now distributed by Scentbird, a digital retailer they have a subscription service, with 8 million subscribers. I've put together five beautiful artisanal fragrances. I'm starting my own Sue Phillips collection of fragrances. I'm preparing for a Ted Talk that I am excited about. I am launching on TalkShopLive soon and continuing to help people feel so much better because of fragrance. I am looking at doing a TV series which I think could be fantastic about fragrance. I have a lot of fingers in lots of different pies at this point. Part of being an entrepreneur is seeing how I can expand what I have been doing and really help people understand the power and glory and magic of fragrance. Fragrance is not just something to be sprayed in the store. It is so much more than that. Our sense of smell is our most powerful sense, with our Sight being the strongest. So when people lose their olfactory sense, it affects them in so many ways and they become really very depressed. Covid has really accelerated the awareness of Anosmia or loss of smell. Years ago, I interviewed the head of the taste & smell clinic in Washington DC, Dr. Robert Henkin, when I was a beauty editor for a magazine, and at the time he said 25 million Americans lose their sense of smell every year, but now Covid has really accelerated the awareness of it. I'm not sure that Covid is going to disappear so I've developed a scent kit, the olfactory rediscovery scent healing kit. What scents inspire you, are they like colors? I often discuss the analogy of art and music. In art, you have three primary colors, red, yellow, and blue. Think about those three primary colors and how many exquisite pieces of art and paintings have come about from secondary colors and tertiary colors. How red and blue make purple and yellow and blue can make green and millions and millions of colors have been basically used and developed by those three primary colors. In music the octave is comprised of eight notes. Think about the amazing diverse musical works that have come from just those eight
“MY MISSION IS TO CREATE MEMORABLE FRAGRANCE “EXPERIENCES” AND PRODUCTS…. DROP BY DROP.”
-SUE PHILLIPS
notes of music – Jazz, Classics, R&B, Pop, Folk, Opera, even HipHop! So, in fragrance, there are eight fragrance families (Chypre, Citrus, Green, Floral, Spicy, Woody, Herbaceous, Animalic. Each one of those olfactive families is then split into several subfamilies. Those eight fragrance families are responsible for millions and millions of different fragrances. Fragrance can expand your confidence and make you feel uplifted, sexy, sensual, happy. Our sense of smell has a direct correlation to the limbic system, so what you smell actually triggers a feeling and an emotion. So when you smell something you are also processing the event or the emotion or person that goes with it. Scent and emotions become so indelibly imprinted in your brain so when you smell the scent again it triggers the memory again as it is tattooed on your brain. So if you fell in love with someone wearing a certain scent and you come across that scent years later what happens? When you come across that scent years later, you immediately think back to the person you fell in love with, it is so palpable. Scent is so powerful. website: www.suephillips.com February 2022
39
25A
Headpiece: Vivian Blooms Dress: Jarlo Zana Model: Abigail Porter MUA: The Beauty Shaman Photographer: Richard Cummings Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell 40
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
HEADWEAR INSPIRATION AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Kofler creates each flower using the finest natural fabrics of velvet, silk, and linen. With this process, the natural fiber is starched and then hung to dry. The flower petals are then cut out of the stiffened fabric. Each is then crafted by hand. The flowers are manipulated by heat, twisted and turned, then worked into arrangements and attached to the custom-made base. If some of Vivian Blooms millinery looks good enough to eat, perhaps that is because Kofler didn’t start out as a milliner. Before she began designing and creating headpieces for Vivian Blooms, as a graduate of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Kofler’s first creative job was in restaurants as a pastry chef in New York City for some years. Vivian Blooms hand-made millinery has been heralded in London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and the United States. The company has collaborated with Miss Victoria Regina to create the Mavens of Millinery, a Colorado-based collective of milliners creating outdoor Pop-Up Hat Shops in Denver 2020 and for the Kentucky Derby Parties of 2021. Vivian Blooms is currently planning for the Dubai World Cup in spring 2022, introducing the brand to new clients in the United Arab Emirates, and making a statement with creations that beguile and amuse.
February 2022
41
Headpiece: Vivian Blooms Dress: Johanna Ortiz Model: VIctoria Isaac The Beauty Shaman 25AMUA: Photographer: Richard Cummings
Expressions of a Person’s Inner Truth and Personality. 42
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Vivian Blooms Headpiece: Vivian Blooms Dress: Oscar de la Renta Model: VIctoria Isaac MUA: The Beauty Shaman Photographer: Richard Cummings
February 2022
43
25A
Headpiece: Vivian Blooms Dress: Cult Gaia Model: Abigail Porter MUA: The Beauty Shaman Photographer: Richard Cummings 44
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Be an original and be in Bloom.
Headpiece: Vivian Blooms Dress: Jay Godfrey Model: Abigail Porter MUA: The Beauty Shaman Photographer: Richard Cummings February 2022
45
25A
46
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
LUXURY CRUISE SHIP
SILVER MOON
OFFERS IMMERSIVE WORLD TRAVEL EXPERIENCE By Norah Bradford
W
e all held our breath half a century ago as humanity’s desire for exploration resulted in the first person landing on the moon. The birth of Silversea’s newest luxury cruise ship, Silver Moon, is inspired by the same drive. It will transport you to unexpected and distant worlds, awakening your senses with new sights, sounds, and tastes from all over our wondrous planet. The Silver Moon. Explore a whole new world of travel. A luxurious cruise can mean different things to different people, but Silversea believes that their small ship cruises, such as Silver Moon, epitomize the true meaning of comfort and intimacy. Silversea ships are small enough to visit exotic locations. Silver Moon, with a passenger capacity of 596, continues the Silversea tradition of small, intimate ships offering larger-than-life experiences. Guests on Silver Moon have access to all-inclusive dining and beverage packages for the duration of their voyage. Beginning in Summer 2022, Silversea guests will be treated to free shore excursions even when they are not on the ship. The pool area has one of the largest pools on a ship of this size. With a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly one-to-one, Silversea’s service remains the crown jewel in the company’s crown. Dedicated, discreet, and experienced, those dedicated men and women are the key to making your trip a memorable one. Silversea’s one-of-a-kind Sea And Land Taste program will take you on a deeper journey. S.A.L.T. provides visitors with the richest gastronomic experience available. S.A.L.T. was created in collaboration with Adam Sachs, former editor in chief of Saveur magazine, and focuses on reflecting your destination through taste by sourcing authentic ingredients prepared with respect for tradition. Silver Moon is the first in the Silversea fleet to be fully integrated with the cruise line’s S.A.L.T. concept, which is designed to provide passengers with culture and connection through food. February 2022
47
25A
Silver Moon Owner's Suite
Silver Moon’s fantastic voyages will take guests through a journey of Northern Europe and the British Isles, with trips from Sweden to Denmark and from Denmark to the United Kingdom. A magical Mediterranean voyage awaits as well departing from Portugal and arriving in Barbados. Silversea Cruises, Royal Caribbean Group’s “jewel in the crown,” is the world’s leading ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, renowned for both its allinclusive lifestyle offering and its global destination portfolio. Silversea, which was founded in 1994 as the world’s first all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious global cruise line, officially joined the Royal Caribbean group in July 2018. Voyages include butler service in every suite category, as well as in-suite dining around the clock, complimentary sustainable caviar on demand 24/7, and premium beverages served throughout the ship; and true door-to-door service, with private executive transfers and flights included as standard, among other inclusions. Silversea guests explore over 900 destinations on all seven continents, enjoying a curated selection of immersive experiences in the world’s most remarkable locations.
Silver Moon Spa
The space-to-guest ratio in Silversea suites is the highest of any luxury cruise accommodation. The majority of their suites have a private teak veranda, and all have ocean views. While sailing in style aboard the best luxury cruise line, all guests will be pampered by an attentive butler. All bars and lounges offer complimentary select wines, premium spirits, specialty coffees, bottled water, juices, and soft drinks. The mini-bar in your suite is also stocked with your preferred beverages, such as wines and spirits. Upon request, your butler will replenish them.
Besides being a leader in luxury, Silversea is building on the Group’s ongoing sustainability efforts, Silversea will take delivery of two Evolution-class ships in 2023 and 2024, pushing the boundaries of sustainable cruise travel with pioneering technology that will reduce the ships’ carbon footprints. The ‘Project Evolution’ cruise ship will be the first to use fuel cells to provide 100 percent power while docked. It will run on a combination of power sources, including a fuel cell system, battery technology, and dual-fuel engines that run on liquefied natural gas (LNG). Silversea Cruises continues to innovate in the ultra-luxury and expedition cruise industries. Visit: www.silversea.com
48
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
SALT Bar
Silver Moon Arts Cafe
February 2022
49
25A
50
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
51
25A
52
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Ferrari February 2022
53
25A
W
SPELLCASTER PODCAST WITH DEIRDRE ARUTUNIAN & RENEE JORDAN by Adam Kluger Photography by Ken Arutunian
hat is your podcast Spellcaster all about? Deirdre: We are a spiritual glam podcast and we talk about finding your authentic truth. Everybody’s truth is different. To me, self-love isn’t about finding it, it’s about being. You just are and the more you try and the more you search the less you find. Renee: Spellcaster is constantly evolving and growing as Deirdre and I evolve and grow together. What we have seen is that people are interested in us, our growth, our take on spirituality, and our straightforward - no holds barred approach to the issues that every one of us faces on this life journey. We hope to spread the message that it’s ok to be authentically you. It’s ok to speak your truth, to fail, to learn, and to grow. We encourage the collective to be kind, supportive to each other and to share the lessons you’ve learned. By building each other up, rather than tearing each other down in an effort to “win” that’s how change can really happen. Right now, society needs to go back to its roots, step away from social media and online, and start interacting and really communicating in a real and meaningful way.
Renee: Deirdre is my soul sister. She understands me in a way that almost no one else has. She fills so many roles in my life: Sister, Mother, Best Friend, Confidant, Partner in Crime. From the day we met, we knew our relationship was special. We have a completely different approach to life, work, so many things - but somehow we always land together in the same place. We balance each other, where I am scheduled, she is free-spirited, where I am closed off, she is open, where I am scared she is brave, and vice-versa. We somehow know each other so well, that we communicate without words, we support each other and protect each other fiercely. We are each other’s touchstone, truth-teller, and biggest fan. Possible future plans with Spellcaster?
I love the terrific energy, flow, and humor of the podcast
Deidre: We have been talking with producers about turning this into a TV talk show. Renee: We want to raise the collective up, for everyone to be and feel their best. Intentions are powerful, words are spells, energy is everything but it all takes effort. Deirdre once asked me “How will people hear our message?” I told her, “ It starts with two people that are brave enough to speak their truth with honesty, love, compassion, and authenticity. That’s how Spellcaster was born.
Deirdre: Renee is very enlightened and we are both seekers of truth.
IG: @spellcaster_sisters
54
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
55
25A
Worth Avenue’s New
L
Via Bice Sizzles
et’s face it. The bloom is off the rose among online shopping and big box e- tailers. Now Palm Beach’s new Via Bice on Worth Avenue is rekindling the experience of shopping elegant and unique boutiques and pausing for a European aperitif or meal at an authentic Mediterranean bite. Via Bice’s new vibe is the result of a two-year extensive renovation that includes a rooftop pergola, wrought iron balconies, mosaic tiles and lush potted plants. Sound like Italy’s Amalfi Coast? Smith Architectural Group’s design sought inspiration from the Mediterranean’s most appealing coastal villages. Think Capri, or Ravello. And it’s no surprise
56
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
that the anchor is Bice Ristorante, the Via’s namesake. A mainstay of Palm Beach residents for over 30 years, Bice offers Northern Italian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Locals love not only the cuisine, but also the intimacy – General Manager Jose Gonzalez, who’s been there for the duration, and Maître d’ Antonello Bux, who usually greets clientele by name. This mainstay is true to its Milan roots, and outdoor dining even accommodates the occasional chill or raindrop, with umbrellas and heaters, as needed. Bice is the perfect respite after a shopping stroll or spree.
Jose Gonzalez General Manager at Bice serving a martini to Hollis Pica.
Subhead line: Did Someone Say Shopping? Via Bice boutiques are unique, and in most cases, the owners are working and warmly greeting the clientele. They are able to wax poetic on the provenance of their special acquisitions. As Alnifa of MAAC London says, “We’re like one big happy family at Via Bice and love to support each other”. In addition to MAAC London, shops and galleries in the Via include Coastal Girls, C.J. Laing, Eye of the Needle, Frances Valentine, J’da Boutique, Joy West, Mally Skok, Serenella and Taglialatella Galleries.
Strong camaraderie among the boutique owners is infectious. And it includes a philosophy of philanthropy. Many Palm Beach charities partner with the Via Bice boutiques to promote awareness for causes that are important to the community. Meander through this elegant pathway, into a boutique shopping experience as it has always meant to be. Stop to admire the bougainvillea and whimsical floor tiles, then smile at a friendly face in a storefront. Raise a glass of Bice’s signature martini or Apérol Spritz and you could just be in paradise.
February 2022
57
25A
THE COURTYARD AT VIA BICE Maac London
Eye of the needle
58
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
J'da Boutique
Taglialatella Galleries
Coastal Girls
Frances Valentine
Bice at lunch February 2022
59
25A
VALENCIANO CUISINE STORMS AMERICA By: Cristina Slattery Edited by: Jadan Horyn
C
hef Danny Lledo is exposing diners in the nation’s capital to Valencian cuisine and earning accolades doing so. Lledo, who was born in the U.S. and spent his childhood in the region of Valencia on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, is currently the most-awarded paella chef in America, but he wants diners to learn that Valencian cuisine does not consist solely of paella. Chef Lledo opened Xiquet, his new Valencian-focused restaurant, named after a word his father used to call him – it means “local kid” in Valenciano – in 2020, two weeks before the onset of the Coronavirus Pandemic. He quickly pivoted to teaching cooking classes for paella over Zoom when the restaurant needed to close, but despite the unfortunate situation of Covid, the restaurant, located above his Slate Wine Bar in the Glover Park neighborhood of Washington, D.C., earned a Michelin star in April of 2021. Lledo has created the completely vegan “arros de marina,” which is cooked in the paella style and is now part of his fourteen-course tasting menu. Plankton, high in Omega 3s, gives the dish a bright green color. Additionally, the plankton adds saltiness to the dish.
Chef Danny Lledo
Chef Lledo is also importing a special prawn called the “Red Prawn of Denia,” from the Valencian region to the United States. This prawn is a specialty of the Mediterranean location south of the city of Valencia where the town of Denia is located and is prized for its mixture of iodine, salt, and lean white meat. Fideua, a noodle dish that includes shellfish, and that originated in Valencia, is often on the menu at Xiquet, 60
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
and a favorite technique of Lledo’s is using a smoker to cook meat, so smoked meats are also on the menu. At Mediterranea Gastronoma, a gathering of culinary industry notables that took place in Valencia in November, Lledo was a keynote speaker. He was recognized as a Chef Ambassador of the Valencian Community along with three other chefs from the region. Lledo focuses on the process when creating a dish. He has learned from experiences that vary from working at Madrid’s historic Botin, where he recalls the “respect and kindness” with which staff treated customers, to his time at Jose Andres’ Think Food Group. Lledo says that Spanish cuisine has “come a long way since French cuisine was the dominant force in the U.S. for a long time.” At Mediterranea Gastronoma, the event in Valencia, he shared how he uses a Texas-style smoker to cook meat since he notes that “they don’t necessarily cook with smoke in Spain.” He is hoping Xiquet will earn 2 Michelin stars and emphasizes that success is a team effort. Diners move from the ground floor of the building, where they start with appetizers, to the third floor, the location of the main dining room, and finally finish the meal with dessert on the middle floor. The main dining room has only six tables and diners can see into the kitchen. If you haven’t tried Valencian cuisine, you should try to dine at Xiquet when you are in the Washington, D.C. area. Spanish food is quite varied and Lledo’s tasting menu will allow you to taste the unique bounty of his native region.
February 2022
61
25A
Boris Andreev
Le Bar à Vin
An Exceptional Evening of Food and Entertainment By Whitney Thompson
W
hen Boris Andreev joined Le Bar à Vin as general manager in late May 2021, he shared a unique vision with the owners of where they wanted to take Palm Beach Island’s newest restaurant. With an updated menu of farm to table small plates, cocktails, and an exceptional wine list, Le Bar is dedicated to giving diners a fun and entertaining night out. Le Bar is quickly becoming one of the most popular and fastest growing restaurants in Palm Beach, with live entertainment every night, including Jazz music every Wednesday and a DJ on Fridays and Saturdays. “The energy of the place is really fun and unique for Palm Beach,” Mr. Andreev told me. “It’s becoming a great place for celebrations. We’ve had several high profile people schedule their special occasions at Le Bar à Vin.”
62
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
The menu is small and eclectic, with French influences. Boris shared some of his recommendations with me. “We have an excellent tuna tartare. The truffle flatbread has also been very popular. And our espresso martini is the best you can find.” He continued, “We want everyone to feel comfortable and welcome here. Come and have fun. That’s our number one priority.” Whether you’re coming for a cheese plate and a cocktail or an elegant dinner, the backdrop of a gleaming bar, exquisite chandelier, and pristine white grand piano will make your evening at Le Bar one to remember and one you’ll be eager to repeat. Call Le Bar à Vin for reservations at 561-490-1456. You can find Le Bar on Instagram @lebarpalmbeach. Mr. Andreev is also available for any questions or requests you may have to make your dining experience memorable. He can be reached at boris@lebarpalmbeach.com.
ASK FOR BACI AL SOLE WHEREVER THE SUN WARMS THE HEARTS OF ROMANTIC! www.BACIalSOLE.com
February 2022
63
25A
64
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Photo by Juan Lamarca
NIC ROLDAN A Conversation with America’s #1 Polo Player By Margaret Luce
W
hen I met Nic Roldan, world famous polo player, he was in his element, having just come in from a ride. I walked into the barn to find him sitting on the ground, adjusting his well-worn yet stunning Lascano riding boots. He was dressed all in black, looking like a rock star. Nic is 39, down to earth, and good looking to boot. He is well-mannered and was genuine and kind in talking with me. His whole vibe grabbed my attention. He is what I would call a true star, one possessing a wholesome and generous spirit for which I have true admiration. I enjoyed getting to know Nic so much. He truly is an ambassador for polo, passionate about keeping the sport in a great light. He is the top-rated player in the U.S. and among the top 20 polo players in the world. He wants to increase recognition of the sport and use
polo as a way to connect people. Nic offers masterclasses and private coaching sessions. You could even play in an actual tournament with him. “Teaching and sharing the knowledge that I have learned over the years and that others have been good enough to share with me is something I love to do,” Nic said. I loved hearing about Nic’s background and upbringing. Having achieved great success in his polo career and other business ventures at a young age, Nic is humble and has worked for everything he has. He was born in Argentina to Raul Roldan, also a polo player, and Dee, an interior designer. “I was always very lucky that my father in particular supported me and made sure I had all the right tools at hand to help me progress,” Nic said. He has a close relationship with his parents, who have mentored him and supported his efforts all his life. February 2022
65
25A
He truly loves animals, and I felt a real kinship with him in that regard. During our conversation, there was a bit more activity on the farm than usual, and the horses were clearly a bit spooked. He got up twice to personally care for them and calm them. I was so impressed with how invested he is in these animals to tend to them himself rather than relying on the caregivers. Nic cares deeply for his polo horses and has a relationship with each one of them. “It’s considered that the horses account for 80% of the game whilst players account for just 20%,” Nic has said. Many of his beloved horses are ex-racehorses, or Off-the-Track-Thoroughbreds, animals perfectly suited to compete successfully in polo. “Polo is one of the oldest sports and we continue to do things the same way…but at the same time, we are learning things, and the sport is getting more intense and physical,” Nic said. Those unfamiliar with polo may not realize what athleticism and discipline is required. Nic Roldan embodies true athletic discipline and structure. He rises each day at 5:00 am for meditation and exercise, followed by a traditional Argentine maté and then two hours of training with the horses. Nic is very conscientious of what he associates his name with. Because fitness is so important for optimal performance in polo, he partners with equipment company Technogym, with flagship stores in New York and Los Angeles, for his training regimen. His rigorous training will, indeed, serve him well as he prepares to compete in the U.S. Open Polo Championship when it comes to Wellington March 29–April 24.
Photo by Nick Mele
54
Metropolitan Magazine | 25Amagazine.com
Photo by Matt Power
Photo by Candace Ferreira
February 2022
67
25A
Photo: Meghan Pearlman
Nic’s home polo club, the Grand Champions Polo Club, FL, is owned by Marc and Melissa Ganzi, both renowned polo players themselves. Nic has competed in countless tournaments throughout his career, including the World Polo League, the highest level of polo outside of Argentina. He also spends his summers playing at Aspen Valley Polo Club, CO, also owned by the Ganzis. He currently holds an 8-goal handicap rating, among the highest on a scale from -2 to 10. Apart from his polo career, Nic is warm and personable and a savvy entrepreneur. He is co-founder of High Goal Gin, developed with some friends from the polo community. “Our shared passion for polo brought us together; our collective love of gin led us to High Goal,” Nic said. The name of their spirit is a play on the polo term high goal, meaning a team with the highest level of polo. Nic inherited his mother’s eye for design, evident in his work as a property developer. He is also a licensed realtor. Nic juggles all these roles with grace and ease. As his colleague, Natascha Baecher, put it, “Nic might go from sitting on an upturned bucket in the stables one moment to the head of the table at Le Bilboquet the next.” Nic maintains great relationships with businesses and sponsors alike. He has an incredible work ethic and continues to work tirelessly for all he
has. It’s obvious to me that he can jump in and out of things effortlessly because of his disciplined and structured lifestyle. That’s how you win. “I’ve been very fortunate in all I’ve been able to do and all the incredible experiences that I’ve had during my journey as a professional polo player. As such, I’m very dedicated to giving back as much as I can, working with foundations that are close to my heart,” Nic shared. He is involved with the Kids Cancer Foundation and the Neil S. Hirsch Boys and Girls Club, both in his hometown of Wellington, FL. He also works with the Buddy Program in Aspen, CO, where Nic spends his summers. Nic worries, as I do, for the youth of today, with phones being a huge problem, causing kids to disengage and lose any edge they might otherwise have. So it means a lot to him to be able to make a difference doing what he can to serve the youth in the area. In his generous nature, Nic offered me a polo lesson as I was leaving. I’m excited to take him up on that, so stay tuned. When he’s not training or competing, grooming his horses, or developing or designing properties, Nic loves to golf. He can frequently be found out on the links at Banyan Golf Club in Wellington. Visit NicRoldan.com for more information about Nic.
68
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Photo: NIck Mele
February 2022
69
25A
Technogym Nic Roldan Chooses
for its Unique Quality and Design
The leading American Polo Player will train with the luxe Italian brand for his future performances
T
By: Margaret Bastick Luce
echnogym, the groundbreaking luxury wellness company, is proud to announce a partnership with Nic Roldan, the leading U.S. polo player. Known as the face of the sport, Nic has earned numerous tournament accolades, including an impressive eight-goal handicap rating as well as the title of youngest polo player to win the U.S. Polo Open at the age of 15. The partnership with Nic Roldan once again confirms Technogym's position as a reference brand for the world's sporting elite. Sports Performance plays a fundamental role for an athlete that makes, physical strength, power, muscular endurance, and agility the winning cards to play at his very best, for this reason, Technogym supports athletes from all over the world with the widest range of equipment and digital technologies. As a fourth-generation polo player with a natural aptitude for competition, Roldan’s powerful dedication to this adrenalineinfused sport is reflected in his rigorous full-body exercise regimen; Technogym’s patented portfolio of premium products has been a top choice in helping professional athletes like Roldan successfully achieve peak performance and precision training.
" The brands dedication to establishing protocols
specific to the equestrian space is something which is very important to me and long overdue." -Nic Roldan
Roldan will be leveraging the luxe Italian brand with the intent of increasing public education of custom equestrian-specific protocols for warmup and recovery. Technogym offers an incredible range of intuitive products – whether it’s the Skill Line for a high-performance lifestyle; the sleek Personal Line designed by Antonio Citterio; to the iconic Kinesis product, a particular favourite of Nic’s which provides an exclusive solution to improve strength, balance and flexibility – no other fitness brand provides a curated selection of connected smart devices, digital services and on-demand training programs. “I’m really excited to be partnering with Technogym. The brands dedication to establishing protocols specific to the equestrian space is something which is very important to me and long overdue. As a polo player, the athletic and fitness sides are fundamental in allowing me to do what I do at a high-performance level and in this Technogym’s experience with the World’s elite athlete is unparalleled." said Nic. In recent news, Roldan’s passion for polo led him to serve as a presenter at the inaugural EQUITANA USA in Lexington, Kentucky, USA from October 1-3, 2021. As the premier North American forum that advocates for the exchange of ideas and experiences to enhance the equine industry, this threeday affair invites equine enthusiasts and professionals to a series of premium on-site activations. Roldan will be led various demonstrations throughout EQUITANA USA, including one with Technogym’s Director of Education and Training, on achieving an optimal workout for active equestrians. In equestrian sports, Technogym counts partnerships with the world's most famous athletes and associations: Georgina Bloomberg and Kent Farrington, just to name a few, have chosen Technogym's professionalism and quality for their training, as well as being a partner of the Federazione Italiana Sport Equestri (Italian Equestrian Federation) for many years. Thanks to the quality of its products, Technogym equipped many of the world's most prestigious training centres and supported the biggest equestrian events, as well as being chosen as Official Supplier of the last 8 editions of the Olympic Games: from Sydney 2000 to Tokyo 2020 and, is also Official Supplier to some of the most prestigious national and international football clubs including Juventus, Inter, Milan, Chelsea FC, Paris St. Germain among others.
70
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Photo: Nick Mele February 2022
71
25A
CELEBRATE WITH CORAL THIS
VALENTINE’S DAY Coral, the protective stone, from Chantecler Capri Jewelry A symbol of protection since ancient times, coral has been coveted as a talisman to ward off evil and ill intent. While it might not prevent Covid, it will inspire compliments. Precious coral or red coral is the common name given to Corallium rubrum, otherwise known as “noble coral”, considered the most desirable type of coral for jewelry.
Our picks for Valentine’s :
Chantecler Enchanté Earrings in rose gold, red coral and diamonds;
Chantecler Bon Bon Earrings in Rose Gold, Diamonds and Red Coral
72
Chantecler Medium Campanella in White Gold and Red Coral
Chantecler Enchanté ring in 18K rose gold, coral and diamonds
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Curators at new emporium Via Coquina on Worth Avenue’s Via Mizner are always eyeing the currents. In this case currents from the sea. For Valentine’s Day, they celebrate coral, a perfect gift for our most cherished love, or for oneself.
About Via Coquina When Cara Polites Ferro opened Via Coquina, a meticulously curated boutique featuring fine artisan treasures last year in the midst of the pandemic, it didn’t take long for Palm Beachers to discover they could experience the charm of their favorite Mediterranean port of call right here, on Worth Avenue’s Via Mizner. Cara’s recent travels to her native Greece and Mediterranean Coast have resulted in beautiful unique additions to her eclectic, yet authentic collection of home décor, dinnerware and table linens as well as fashion, jewelry, apothecary and accessories.
GREEKS BEARING GIFTS Where to Find the Best House-Warming Wares on the Island
V
By Carolina Camps
ia Coquina, a jewel box of a store on Worth Avenue’s Via Mizner courtyard, is known for being a global emporium stocked with the finest artisan gifts. On the hunt for the most unique finds throughout the Mediterranean and beyond, owner Cara Polites Ferro personally travels the world to source for her charming shop. From Greece to Morocco, Italy to the Republic of Guinea she brings back beauties that will bring joy to the most discerning hostesses. Via Coquina’s success in Palm Beach has been so marked that Ferro plans on opening a second store in the Hamptons this summer. In season, Ferro is often at her Palm Beach store eager to share the stories behind each necklace, candle or hand blown glass vase. “I love getting to know the craftspeople behind every curated piece and sharing the unique story with my guests,” says Ferro. “Every visit is a new experience,” says Palm Beach regular, Marzia Precoda, “Cara has done an amazing job in selecting the finest artisans. My go-to place for unique and tasteful gifts.”
TURN OF THE MILL Available in copper and brass, these elegant metal mills are designed based on a coffee mill that was used by Greek soldiers in the early 20th century. They are manufactured by a small, family-run company in Greece and come in two sizes. And aren’t they beautiful to behold? They’re even more fun to use.
CLOTH COLLECTIVE Forget the stack of vulgar paper napkins. Linen is not only chic, but environmentally sound. Enter a family-owned linen company that has been creating the loveliest linens using block-printing techniques passed down from generation to generation for over a century. Based in Northern Italy, a team of 20 artisans use hand-carved pearwood stamps and vegetable dyes to turn out squares and rectangles of useful whimsy.
OLIVE OIL, SALT, PEPPER AND A SQUARE OF LINEN LIQUID GOLD Oracle Olive Oil, a delicious, rich, fruity, green and organic olive oil made from Koroneiki olives, is sourced from a collective of seaside olive farms in the Peloponnese. The extra virgin oil is packaged in seductive navy-blue bottles designed by L.A. artist Alejandro Cardenas. They are UV-coated to prevent any oxidation. “A new batch literally just arrived today,” says Ferro. “This is such an in-demand house-warming gift, I’m not sure how long they will last.” February 2022
73
25A
SAAR ZAFRIR DESIGN UNVEILS THE GALEI KINNERET HOTEL A BEACHSIDE RESORT ON THE SEA OF GALILEE The design concept of the 123-room luxury hotel is rooted in the ancient ruins discovered on the land of Tiberias, ushering in a new era of hospitality to the historical region in Northern Israel
L
74
By Grace Hilsley & Ross Belfer
ondon-based design studio Saar Zafrir Design, has today unveiled its latest project, the Galei Kinneret Hotel; a restored 123-room hotel situated on the historical Sea of Galilee in Northern Israel. Initially built in 1946, the original Galei Kinneret was one of Israel’s first luxury hotels founded by entrepreneur Lotte Eisenberg, inspired by a trip to the magnificent Villa d’Este Hotel in Lake Como. Having been appointed to fully redesign the uninhabited hotel, Saar Zafrir Design has drawn inspiration from the ancient ruins discovered onsite, and reworked the charm of Lotte’s vision into a seamless design concept that blends the hotel into the natural landscape. The result is one of the most highly anticipated new openings on Israel’s hospitality scene.
indoor and outdoor bar, swimming pool, outdoor yoga deck, restaurant, spa, fully equipped gym, private beach and boat and a synagogue for guest use. Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by a minimal, open space characterised by 3-dimensional graphic stone cladded walls, glossy marble flooring and elegant reception desks finished with marble and wood. The foyer of the hotel was kept intentionally clean and quiet, with the intention of the space to draw guests straight through the property, as a corridor to the Sea of Galilee. Championing the use of natural materials and tones, the hotel lobby offers a comfortable lounge area with wood panelled walls, parquet flooring and soft linen upholstered sofas with wooden accents.
Honouring Lotte Eisenberg’s innovative vision and the discovery of the archeological remains on the land, Saar Zafrir has drawn on these historical references to determine the narrative of the hotel, which celebrates the property’s long-standing history. Manifesting a clean, white structure, the hotel’s facade has been kept very much the same, and the interior of the hotel has been transformed into a calm oasis that ushers guests seamlessly towards the still waters and spectacular views across the Sea of Galilee. Emanating a sophisticated and serene atmosphere, the remodelled hotel features a neutral colour palette and the use of natural materials that compliment the hotel’s natural surroundings.
Managing the hotel’s restoration from concept to completion, 90% of the hotel’s fixtures and furnishings have been designed and custom made in-house by Saar Zafrir Design, to perfectly compliment the creative vision. Saar Zafrir said: “I have such fond memories growing up and spending my summers on the Kinneret that despite not generally working in Israel, I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to work on a project that carried so much sentimental value to me. The area has been lacking in attention for some while, but with the relaunch of this iconic hotel, we believe Tiberias will once again become a leading destination for both domestic and international tourists to Israel having set a new standard of hospitality in Northern Israel”.
The hotel encompasses 123 spectacular rooms and suites with outdoor jacuzzis, presenting either a view of the vast mountainous landscape or Sea of Galilee. Further facilities include an
Through a smooth, cohesive wooden walkway, guests are led from the hotel lobby into the restaurant “Lotte”, named after Ms. Eisenberg herself. Presenting a menu honouring Lotte’s
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
European roots merged with the flavours of Jerusalem, Michelin star awarded chef Asaf Granit (of Shabour and Balagan in Paris, Machne Yehuda in Jerusalem and The Palomar and Coal Office in London) is the mastermind behind this new culinary concept that captures the spirit of the original founder. Committed to working only with local farmers and suppliers, Lotte restaurant is a celebration of Israel's delicious, fresh and abundant produce grown between the Galilee Mountains and Golan Heights, with a menu offering dishes of fish, meat and fresh garden flavours. An interpretation of what Saar Zafrir saw in the chef’s work, the space is vibrantly refined, with organic tones and the use of natural materials featuring parquet wood flooring, wood and rattan fixtures and floral upholstered accents that decorate the space. The main design features are the large archways covered in ceramic tiles in different shades of green, that climb up the walls and across the ceiling like leaves that gently disperse towards the glass wall leading out to the hotel’s private beach. Overlooking the hotel’s private beach is an outdoor restaurant, sunloungerlined swimming pool and cosy outdoor bar for guests to unwind at the water’s edge. Grounding the hotel to its historic roots, works by Israeli sculpturist Yuval Lufen that manifest the archaeological remains found on the site have been implanted beneath the glass-bottomed swimming pool, with the original ruins currently preserved by the Antiquities Authority in Israel. At the foot of the pool, guests are invited to enjoy a drink and shelter from the sun beneath a huge treelike structure by artist Gilad Keinan. The inspiration for creating this aluminium tree came from Zafrir’s experience at the Burning Man Festival in Nevada, resulting in a an exceptional monument that combines both design with practicality - the sprawling leaves that overstretch the circular bar offer much needed shade from the blazing heat during the summer months.
Each of the 123 rooms feature parquet wood flooring and off-white panelled walls, with a soothing palette of natural and organic tones. Offering either a view of the mountainous landscape or the Sea of Galilee, the sophisticated and tasteful rooms are intended to compliment the hotel’s surroundings for a harmonious experience that connects the guests to nature. The rooms champion the use of natural materials with ample light flooding through large windows, and bathrooms finished head-to-toe in pale, veined marble and gold accents. The Galei Kinneret Hotel is located at 1 Eliezer Kaplan Street, Tiberias, and is now officially open to the public. For more information about Galei Kinneret Hotel please visit www.galei-kinneret.com For more information about Saar Zafrir Design please visit www.saarzafrir.com
About Saar Zafrir Design Saar Zafrir Design was founded by London-based designer Saar Zafrir. The studio offers design, investment and development services for hospitality projects throughout Europe. Following a successful career of over a decade in the capital markets, Saar Zafrir switched gears and followed his passion of design and hospitality development. An interior designer by heart, Zafrir's studio manages projects from A to Z, from concept to design, to purchasing and construction. The studio is behind a number of Europe's hottest design hotel properties including the beautiful guest rooms of Max Brown Hotels and Sir Savigny Berlin along with the full design of Brown Beach House Croatia and Provocateur Berlin and Golden Phoenix restaurant, the city's first shamelessly sensual design hotel. February 2022
75
25A
TEE IT UP at Fox Run Golf Club
Challenging Course Offers Breathtaking Views & Remarkable Cuisine By Peter Elston
F
ox Run Golf Club in Ludlow, Vermont, is a beautiful 18-hole golf resort that incorporates natural elements from the Green Mountains and the Okemo Valley, attracting visitors from New England and beyond.
Every one of the 18 holes features difficult, natural elements that highlight the breathtaking mountainside terrain. The greens are undulating and fast, putting all golfers’ skills, talent, ability, and competence to the test. Fox Run also has a 9,200 square foot clubhouse with locker rooms and a well-stocked pro shop with stylish and functional apparel as well as the most up-to-date stateof-the-art equipment. For beginners and golfers looking to improve their game, Fox Run has the best training facility in the region. Mark Senecal, their outstanding and experienced PGA Professional, leads small teaching classes and clinics, as well as quality individual instruction. A four-hole practice course allows new golfers and families to get a taste of the game by playing shorter holes, while also allowing other players to work on different skills. The driving range is one of the most scenic and well-kept in New England. It has a total area of 6 acres and allows golfers to practice on grass tees or mats. Their chipping area is complete with a putting green, pitching area, and several manicured practice bunkers. In the winter and during inclement weather, they have an indoor golf simulator that allows participants to virtually play more than 20 courses, as well as an indoor practice putting green. Their newly created Field of Games features bocce courts, horseshoe pits, and cornhole toss. Also in the winter, patrons can visit Fox Run’s Nordic Center, which has 7 kilometers of well-marked and manicured Nordic Track Trails and skating lanes 76
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
that wind along the Black River. Snowmobiling and snowshoeing are also available at Fox Run. Troy Caruso purchased the resort in April 2021, and he immediately began improving everything from new GPS-tracked golf carts to a total renovation of the restaurant Calcuttas that features a bar, fullservice restaurant, and a patio. After a round, Golfers can enjoy a glass of wine, live music, and a fine meal. On the patio patrons can enjoy the firepits and appreciate some amazing views of the golf course and Okemo Ski Mountains. Andrew Molen, a rising culinary star who previously worked at East Hampton landmark The Maidstone Inn, is at the helm of the restaurant. Andrew has had a significant impact in leadership roles at some of New York’s finest restaurants, including The Plaza Food Hall (The Plaza Hotel), Sunset Beach (AB Hotels), Restaurant Gordon Ramsay (The London Hotel), and Todd English Enterprises. Fox Run is also constructing two new restaurants and renovating a sixty-room inn, as well as wedding facilities that can accommodate large weddings. Come to Fox Run Club and find why is had been noticed as one of the best new courses and most scenic courses by both Golf Week and Golf Digest. For more information, visit: www.foxrungolf.org
Author Tobi Rubinstein
Rewriting the Rules
T
he world has always needed innovative and imaginative pioneers , yet we think that the author of The House Of Faith And Fashion ; What My Wardrobe Taught Me About God might be in a delightful world of her own making . Imagine a eclectic mix of Carrie Bradshaw , Iris Apfel and the biblical Ruth would result in a most unusual triple threat trinity known as Tobi Rubinstein. Her book pays homage to both her loves of religion and fashion in a most unusual way . Two very popular subjects that are traditionally juxtaposed, yet are brought together seamlessly within these pages, as if they had always belonged and had never existed separately. The untraditional and unusual space that she created gives the reader entry into a esteemed 40 years career in fashion balanced by a rabbinical ordination and religious upbringing and life path . She writes in a format of thought-provoking essays about fashion, jewelry, style & beauty, art, as Manolo Blahnik , Carolina Herrara , Chanel , The Met Ball , 50Cent, Anna Wintour and New York Fashion Week alongside highly respected faith leaders . Stitched inside are personal stories and hints of a possible memoir to follow . She approaches modesty issues and the antics of producing a fashion show with humor, brains and a whole lot of charm considering this book was written while she was fighting stage 4 Uterian Cancer . “Fashion, art, jewelry, and beauty has always been looked upon as vain, purposeless and in a self-contained way,” Tobi Rubinstein explains . “I’m putting a new layer to it ..saying ‘No, it’s not!! creativity on all levels is a gift from God and should be divinely celebrated." Some days she’s working alongside her x mother in law , Donna Schneier's jewelry show ; Bijoux at The Boca Museum ( March 23 -26 ) and some days she’s teaching a zoom class on The Tractate ; Ethics Of The Fathers to the Esther Muller , Senior advisor at Sotheby’s International Real Estate . The House Of Faith And Fashion is becoming a series with book 2 launching this summer in collaboration with Paris Fashion Week Studio , Miami Modest Fashion Week and The Reflective with expansion into the Islamic commonality in the booming trend of modest attire .
Photo by Rudy Arias Styled by John Henry Edington Makeup by lizzglambeauties.com
“Tobi Rubinstein can renew anyone’s faith in fashion." Her love of shopping, styling and clothes is truly a religious experience and is equal only to her love of her faith. I’m blown away by her knowledge of Judaism and her vast understanding of the fashion industry. Tobi is our Fashion Rabbi.” -Fern Mallis It’s not surprising that the book was reviewed by religious and fashion media outlets with equal praise. “One of the most anticipated and lauded literary debuts in fashion media" wrote Stephan Rabimov for Forbes. “Brilliantly redraws the borders between spiritual and physical beauty.” -Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt Reading this book is for anyone that believes in God as the Creator but still worships haute couture hanging in their custom walk in closets. Tobi Rubinstein is a rule breaker by rewriting the rules of women in religious spaces and religion in fashionable places . Available on Amazon , Kindle and www.thehouseoffaithandfashion.com February 2022
77
25A
Festival of the Arts Boca Presented by The Schmidt Family Centre for the Arts
March 4 – 13, 2021 By Douglas Evans
O
f all the terrific arts events that happens every year and a must attend is the 16th Annual Festival of the Arts Boca, March 4 – 13, 2022 which will welcome two-time Oscar® nominee, and five-time GRAMMY®- winning trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard to the Mizner Park Amphitheater, on opening night, Friday, March 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Nestor Torres
“Terence Blanchard is an icon and truly ‘jazz royalty,’” said Joanna Marie Kaye, executive director of Festival of the Arts Boca. “We are thrilled to have him kick-off our 16th Annual event with the Florida premiere of this show.” Best known for scoring Spike Lee films, Blanchard made history in October by becoming the first black composer presented by the Metropolitan Opera in its 138-year history. He comes to Boca Raton with his internationally acclaimed band, the E-Collective, and the double GRAMMY®-winning Turtle Island Quartet, in a program from his new album, Absence, a tribute to the legendary jazz saxophonist Wayne Shorter.
Arts and Culture Editor: Douglas Evans
Other Festival highlights include an Opera Gala Concert featuring soprano Larisa Martinez, who regularly appears with Andrea Bocelli, and with her husband Joshua Bell. Martinez is making her Festival debut, along with some special guests, in an evening of opera favorites with Festival Orchestra Boca under the baton of Constantine Kitsopoulos. A Night at the Ballet will feature stars from American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, and more, performing excerpts from the classics including Don Quixote, Swan Lake and Romeo & Juliet, as well
Bobby McFerrin
Larisa Martinez
Time for Three 78
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Haass + Stavridis
as contemporary works, such as She’s a Rainbow, by the Rolling Stones. Time for Three, known for standing at the busy intersection of Americana, modern pop, and classical music, returns to the Festival; and Grammy Award-winning South Florida favorite, jazz flutist Nestor Torres and his band, close out the Festival on March 13. The Authors & Ideas program features Richard Haass, president of the Council on Foreign Relations and author of A World in Disarray: American Foreign Policy and the Crisis of the Old Order, and James Stavridis, author and retired four-star U.S. Naval officer. The two will join in a discussion about global events. The series will also feature award-winning and internationally acclaimed global warming expert and author, Bill McKibben, who will talk about “Our Changing Climate;” NASA Astronaut, Donald Pettit; and novelist Luis Alberto Urrea, who uses his dual-culture life experiences to explore greater themes of love, loss and triumph. Tickets for the 16th Annual Festival of the Arts Boca range from $15 to $150 per person and are available at festivalboca. org or by calling 561-757-4762 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Festival Boca is committed to the health and safety of everyone involved in its events, from attendees, to artists and staff. All events will take place at the Mizner Park Amphitheater, an outdoor (tented) venue, with socially-distanced, open seating with all seats 4 feet apart. All staff and artists will be vaccinated and boosted. www.festivalboca.org
25A
INA LETTMANN:
Curating a Closet for Women of the World, an international and entrepreneurial success. By Amy Poliakov
C
o-founder Ina Lettmann and her store, Violet and Grace - located inside the 1 Hotel in South Beach, provide a curated closet to world travelers looking for a home away from home. Whether traveling for work, or vacationing under palm trees and beachside, tourists and locals flock to her haven, which remains a staple for the South Florida community.
“My father always taught me to stay humble and go out of your way to work hard. Authenticity makes you go farther in life. For me I have always succeeded by beating to my own drum. With hard work and authenticity women can go farther in their career. It is not about being an influencer it is about authenticity,” said Lettmann.
What separates Violet and Grace from a traditional boutique is Lettmann’s personal vision for a curated concept store which evokes a lifestyle of international flair through its unique selection of products that connect to an overarching theme of beauty and grace. With handpicked products pulled together from different brands and designers, her store is about discovery and experience.
Lettmann’s strong work ethic defines her not just as the face for successful modeling but as a modern-day entrepreneurial woman. Having studied fashion design buying and merchandising in Germany and business at the Sorbonne in Paris, Lettmann learned the skills needed to transcend the world of fashion to a successful entrepreneur and business owner for over 17 years. Her true love for photography shows her passion for not just being in front of the camera but behind the lens as well. Having worked with fashion designers such as Nicholas Ghesquiere in fashion shows and respecting photographers like Peter Lindbergh the versatility of Lettmann’s career contributes to the versatility of her store. Photographs portraying modeling shots reflect her passion for the love of camera and can be found for sale at Violet and Grace.
Unearthing different fragrances such as the “Peyote Poem” candle or the Blanche Perfume from Byredo, a celebrity favorite, to the numerous opportunities to sniff the powerful purity of scents through perfumes like Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s “Baccarat Rouge 540”, experience is found through self-discovery. Lipsticks, beauty products, and facial products from Paris allow the Violet and Grace shopper to immerse themselves in self-care. Lettmann’s collaboration with the IRO brand brings her signature red trademark stitching to unique customs leather jackets only found at Violet and Grace. Her personal brand of Violet and Grace offers a vast assortment of python clutches, totes, and cardholders. Lettman’s attention to detail is noted through her signature and custom red “x” stitching logo that can be found on her edgy, yet sophisticated python clutches known as the “sushi” bag. Her sustainable and lightweight recycled python totes are available from green to her rich and deep magenta and can be ordered with customizations for events. “I am inspired by the streets of Paris where I spent much time. For me, I want for those if they travel, forget something they need, I want them to be able to find anything they need. What I hand-picked and present in my store is what you may need in your personal closet for any occasion. I have curated a closet where a variety of items for any occasion can be found,” said Lettmann. Fluent in German, English and French along with understanding Spanish and Italian, Lettmann reflects a worldly elegance. Having started her career as a professional super model, Lettman’s beauty has graced the cover of magazines like Elle, Marie Claire, and Harpers Bazaar. Originally born in Germany, she was discovered in New York City on vacation. Her modeling led her to work with great photographers like Helmut Newton. For Lettmann, hard work and humility were qualities she learned from childhood. She understands fashion and modeling because she can define and spot trends. 80
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Violet and Grace is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday during high season and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. during low season. From expensive designers like Alexander Vauthier to the everyday casual clothing, Lettmann has created a store that allows for a window into the world of fashion and creativity at all price ranges. A true entrepreneurial mind, Lettman’s personal vision is a sanctuary of success. “I want to continue to tell a story. I buy for my store what I like and what inspires me not just what is trendy. I hope I can provide a sense of comfort for all,” said Lettmann.
simplydownproducts.com February 2022
81
25A
MIA PINERO,
FROM BROADWAY’S WEST SIDE STORY, TO RELEASE HER DEBUT ALBUM “GROWING UP” by Robert Massimi
M
ia Pinero is a New York City based performer who recently made her Broadway debut as Maria, while understudying in Ivo Van Hove's revival of West Side Story. She has performed at some of the most prestigious theaters across the country, including the Guthrie Theater, PlayMakers Repertory Company, Geva Theatre Center, and most recently at Paper Mill Playhouse in Songs For a New World, starring alongside Tonynominee, Carolee Carmelo. She has been in a number of workshops and developmental readings in NYC, working with artists such as Tony awardwinning director Thomas Kail, Tony award-winning music director Alex
82
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Lacamoire, and Drama Desk award-winning composer Jimmy Roberts. Her concert credits include venues such as Lincoln Center, the Times Center, and the Landmark Theater. On camera, Mia played Angelica in Law and Order: SVU, was featured on a CitiBank commercial where she got to eat BBQ chicken wings (a favorite), and was featured on The Today Show. She is a proud alumni of Montclair State University’s Musical Theatre program, as well as Fiasco Theater’s Free Training Initiative. Mia is newly engaged to the love of her life, is a proud sister, daughter, and Tia to sweet Matteo.
GROWING UP TRACK LISTING:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9
Mia Pinero is thrilled to release her debut album, Growing Up, a 'musical journal entry' preserving a moment unlike any other. From waiting in the wings as an understudy in the highly anticipated revival of West Side Story, to making her Broadway debut as Maria, Mia Pinero’s star was on the rise, until a global pandemic landed her back in her hometown of Racine, Wisconsin. Months of deep reflection sparked newfound realizations that evolved into stripped down interpretations of Musical theatre and Pop classics, ranging from the lyric driven brilliance of Stephen Sondheim to the soulful, boundary pushing compositions of Donald Glover. Including beloved hits such as ‘The Nearness of You’, ‘Stop This Train’, and ‘Children Will Listen’, Growing Up explores what it means to reconnect
STAND TALL ALL I'VE EVER KNOWN THE NEARNESS OF YOU YOU'RE NEARER STOP THIS TRAIN I'VE GROWN ACCUSTOMED TO HER FACE CHILDREN WILL LISTEN/ NO ONE IS ALONE DO YOU REMEMBER GROWING UP
to your past and uncover its difficult yet hopeful complexities, leading to perhaps the most vital growth yet. ‘Growing Up’ features piano, mixing and arrangements by Alex Thompson, and is co-produced by Mia Pinero and Alex Thompson. The album also includes Brett Scott on engineering, mixing, and mastering with Alex Nielsen on engineering and recording the album. The album was mixed and mastered at BNB Audio in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Website: www.miapinero.com Instagram: miapinero Twitter: miapinero February 2022
83
25A
Curator Nicollette Ramierz discussing
PANDEMONIUM: ART OF THE PANDEMIC (PAINTING IS FOREVER?) EXHIBITION | NFTS + TRADITIONAL PAINTING: HOW COULD YOU? By Rachel Vancelette
Alessandro del Pero
Alessandro del Pero
84
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Lindsey Nobel
“D
Uri Dotan
Uri Dotan
Danny Licul
uring the ongoing pandemic the art world underwent massive changes, not the least of which is the NFT movement or the digitization of Art on the blockchain. On a micro level artists in their studios have also adapted their work to this new medium. Some of their work blends seamlessly with the concept of a non-fungible token, while other artists resist or rather carry on as they have been doing before the NFT Revolution; Painting is Forever. Whatever medium they choose to use, the message is the same: Great Art Will Triumph. And in great art the human mind finds solace from the challenges of our world.” Nicollette Ramirez Nicollette Ramirez is the creator and host of The Beez and Honey Podcast, and the latest international art curator for ART X PUZZLES latest digital metaverse platform called ART X ARTISTS. Many know Ramirez as an important art industry writer, producer, events organizer, private art dealer and among her many talents continues to make an important impact in the arts including helping find artists find a home in the right art gallery. From the likes of heavy hitters such as Gagosian to the latest art gallery, artists or art movements, The Beez and Honey Podcast is about art and everything that relates to art. During the pandemic the podcast only continued to grow with an audience which exceeded not only the art world and only continued to create a global impact. Ramirez tracks the oral history of the contemporary art world, continuing to capture stories from the protagonists themselves, about the present, past and future of art. One can now find her latest project in the ART X ARTISTS: ART X ARTISTS Gallery which launched in September 2021. As a partner platform to ART X PUZZLES it presents integrated OVR experiences, exhibitions, artists projects and technology click-to-purchase experiences of Collector Editions, NFTS and artworks from around the globe. The platform announced by Yahoo Finance, Yahoo Entertainment and other key outlets was designed by a former Fuji Film executive and along with the founder of ART X PUZZLES Rachel Vancelette. The design was specifically based on an important former 21st Street Gallery Space which has since been destroyed and rebuilt by Zwirner Gallery. As the former Senior Director of Yvon Lambert in the early 2000s, Rachel Vancelette and her
Curator Nicollette Ramirez
Artist Akuzuru
Artist Alessandro del Pero
team wanted to create an idealized memory of a gallery that held so many important art exhibitions in the early 2000s from artists such as Carlos Amorales, Andres Serrano, Anslem Kiefer and many more. The ART X ARTISTS OVR was specifically designed to continue to evolve and support branches of social giving for select Artist Charity Choices. The exhibition PANDEMONIUM: ART OF THE PANDEMIC brings together for the first time a series of artists working in NFTS and traditional painting and sparks new conversation about the every changing times. Can NFTS and traditional artwork be shown together? The selection of international contemporary artists: Uri Dontan, Lindsey Nobel, Dim Zayan, Danny Licul, Alessandro del Pero and AKUZURU seem to prove the answer is YES! Each artwork is found within the newly design gallery space and curated among the multiple galleries in the metaverse. The exhibition is currently open to the public and on until January 20th, 2022. Can you tell us about your inspiration for this exhibition? I’ve been obsessed with this pandemic from the start. Not everyone lives through one so intensely as we did in a major metropolis like NYC which was the epicenter of the pandemic when it began in the USA. The pandemic has proven to be a disruptor to life in general. The world will never be the same. I’m also obsessed with non fungible tokens, and their rise in prominence in the art world means it has also been a disruptor indicating the art world will never be the same. Ultimately the artists around me were the inspiration for this exhibition because their work interpreted these two forces moving parallel through the world, changing it, so that things would never be the same. In creating this OVR exhibition, what are your thoughts about online exhibitions in the future and for the art industry at large? Are they here to stay? During the pandemic OVRs were useful to keep business going but they, like NFTs, are here to stay. We built the foundation for the Metaverse of the art world during the pandemic and there’s no going back.
Artist Danny Licul
Artist Lindsey Nobel
Artist Uri Dotan February 2022
85
25A
Dim Zayan
NFT and Traditional artwork comes through with your curatorial statement, Can you tell us more about your decision for bringing these artists and artworks together? Some contemporary collectors won’t go near paintings. Same for some NFT collectors. I think this extreme way of collecting is fine for some people but Art in and of itself defies categories. We make categories to make things quantifiable (sellable) and understandable to the mind but these boxes don’t really exist in Art. Some artists I’ve worked with for years who are still painting are struggling with the notion of NFTs so I wanted to engage in that conversation with them by showing them alongside artists using NFTs as their medium. Also for the artists working with NFTs, I wanted to put them in conversation with conventional art, at its most basic, painting. Most artists in the NFT world don’t give a hoot for the conventional art world, but again, Art doesn’t have boundaries so whether they care for the Art world or not, they are part of it. And in the long trajectory of Art History, they will eventually be included in the books. What has your greatest challenge been in curating an exhibition and/or this exhibition in the last years since the COVID19 pandemic? My greatest challenge was motivation. Many artists approach me all the time but over the last few years, and even before the pandemic because of the birth of my son, I didn’t feel much motivation or have much energy to focus on Art and artists. I strongly believe an artist cannot do both well, make art and make babies, and for 86
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
the last six years I was interested only in making a healthy human being, so I had to challenge myself to remember that yes, I have interests outside my son, and work outside my son, which involves artists. How do you find new ideas and artists as a curator? How do they find me? is the question! I have ideas every day, many ideas, but not every idea sees the light of day, and maybe that’s for the better. And I can’t escape artists. They are always around me. It’s energy. Once a quite famous art dealer said to me that being a great art dealer is about having ideas. He himself is a great salesman so I wouldn’t mind having some of his salesmanship while swapping some of my ideas. What is the key to considering when curating an OVR online gallery? What was your greatest challenge curating this exhibition in a non-conventional environment? I think some Art works that attract you in person may not have the same energy online for some people. Also one NFT artist was disappointed his image didn’t move until someone actively clicked on the image. As the technology improves and people get more accustomed to moving around in the Metaverse all these issues will disappear I think. Working with a remote team is perhaps the greatest challenge when things may not be clear or may be lost in the chain of command.
Do you feel it is an important time for contemporary artists and curators to be brave in a new way of thinking? I think contemporary artists and curators have been brave in a new way of thinking about art from underrepresented sectors of society, but to be honest I’m not sure once the social justice flame goes down if people will still be showing these works. It’s not that long ago that an art dealer would show Basquiat to a collector who would respond that he didn’t want a black artist hanging in his house. Once in discussion with a curator and private dealer who built the collection for a prominent museum in Tasmania, Australia, I asked if they would be showing aboriginal Art and he scoffed at the idea. This sort of mentality is changing. But in other ways too, contemporary artists and curators have to be brave in their way of thinking about questioning things in society. The pandemic is a perfect example. How many contemporary artists and curators challenge the current narrative around mandates? How many ask questions with their work and vocally champion alternative ways of seeing? The real problem with contemporary art today is that it is too lazy. One major collector made a good point when he said most of America is a desert when it comes to finding great contemporary art. And that’s because too much Art is made for the market. The art market is not Art. Any thoughts on the future of these artists and/or other artists in future? The great thing about non fungible tokens is that it has made the art world wake up out of its self absorption. Most art that is bought and sold is, according to one great collector, decoration, and the fact that auction houses have championed NFTs as a luxury art item, makes all that decoration even less relevant than it already is. Your curatorial statement: During the ongoing pandemic the art world underwent massive changes, not the least of which is the NFT movement or the digitization of Art on the blockchain. On a micro level artists in their studios have also adapted their work to this new medium. Some of their work blends seamlessly with the concept of a non-fungible token, while other artists resist or rather carry on as they have been doing before the NFT Revolution; Painting is Forever. Whatever medium they choose use, the DimtoZayan message is the same: Great Art Will Triumph. And in great art the human mind finds solace from the challenges of our world.
Lindsey Nobel
Can you expand on your ideas or thoughts on the future of painting? I can’t really expand on the future of painting but painting won’t go anywhere, even if it changes style, because it’s in some ways, a basic human instinct. We did it since we lived in caves and probably even before. All indigenous and tribal cultures have had painting, drawing, sculpting, design, craft making, music, and dance as a backbone of their spiritual practices and it’s the same in contemporary art. We can’t separate Art from the Spiritual and when we do it’s dead, not Art. So long as human beings avoid becoming machines we have a future in painting and in Art. The future of the artist studio with the blockchain? Good question. This needs a long answer and I don’t have all the technological knowledge to answer it but what I do know is that blockchain will be able to solve problems like the recent Raymond Pettibon forgeries that came out of someone working closely in his studio. Anything else you would like to add or contribute? It was a pleasure to collaborate with ART X PUZZLES. If art had as it’s focus the intention to engage with others, not just a focus on ourselves and our small worlds, we would be making great work all the time. I think it was Balthus who said we make great art when we focus on what we have in common with others and not focus on ourselves. Dim Zayan
February 2022
87
FOURTH ANNUAL
MAMMOTH FILM FESTIVAL™
25A
M
PARTNERS WITH THiNK:NFT TO BE FIRST FILM FESTIVAL TO OFFICIALLY GIVE AWAY NFTs TO ALL FILM FESTIVAL AWARD WINNERS DURING FESTIVAL CLOSING NIGHT AWARD SHOW, AND FIRST FILM FESTIVAL TO STREAM LIVE IN THE METAVERSE
ammoth Film Festival™ is thrilled to partner with THiNK:NFT to offer filmmakers and festival goers a fully immersive NFT festival experience for the upcoming in-person festival. Mammoth Film Festival™, founded by Tanner Beard and Tomik Mansoori in 2017, is excited to announce they will be distributing NFTs to the winning filmmakers and actors at their closing Sunday night awards ceremony on February 6, 2022; the first film festival to set this precedent. In addition, the festival will be streaming live access in the Metaverse with partners Spatial.io and IN.LIVE, offering digital users never before experienced access to a film festival in this way. Mammoth Film Festival’s 2022 NFT festival partner, THiNK:NFT, is the new division of experiential media company THiNK:EXP, founded by Pink Floyd saxophonist and acclaimed technology entrepreneur Scott Page. With its focus on bringing together world-class talent, brands and artists to create the highest quality and ensure its enduring value, THiNK:NFT accelerates the complete IP-to-NFT Experience. An ensemble of strategic partners encompassing broad and specialized expertise across technology, entertainment, sports and the integrated arts, the THiNK:NFT team is resource-rich in software development, marketing and distribution. Each project is carefully selected and receives the passion and devotion worthy of iconic IP creators and their treasured communities of fans. THiNK NFT is a diverse group of master developers, strategists, game theorists, token economics experts and community building influencers from the NFT
88
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Universe. The group partners with the most culturally significant NFT projects to facilitate most legendary NFT drops. As part of the NFT activation at the 2022 festival, THiNK:NFT is the presenter of the Mammoth Film Festival™ Closing Night Ceremony and Awards Presentation to be held at Canyon Lodge. During this ceremony, each filmmaker that wins the signature physical festival 3-D Ice Glacier and Film Reel award, will ALSO be given the award as an NFT, designed by Festival Founder Tanner Beard and Graphic Artist Larry Soileau, and transformed into evolved official minted NFTs by NFT designer Matteo Santoro. Each NFT will include a free site from IN.LIVE to host and feature the award winners’ content. The awards will be immediately input into the recipients Metmask wallets, as the first film festival to ever award NFTs to its winners. Mammoth Film Festivals’ Metaverse festival goers will be able to experience live filmmaker panels, red carpets, events and the awards ceremony through Metaverse partner Spatial.io and Live Streaming partner IN.LIVE, providing worldwide access in a never-before-seen way for a physical film festival. Spatial is The Metaverse space for Streaming, Events, Culture and Exhibitions, already the home of incredible galleries, museums and 3D exhibits. IN.LIVE is a Creatorcentric, all-in-one platform for sales, distribution and monetization of video content, providing Creators complete control of branding, programming, rights, and pricing.
Mammoth Film Festival prides itself with being on the cutting edge of technology and trends, with VR experiences features since its 2018 inception, and in 2019 all award winners received Litecoin crypto tokens with their awards. Within a short time frame of the Litecoin awarding, the value shot up and filmmakers received a lovely reward. Several even cashed them in to fund future projects. They were the first film festival to give out Crypto, and NOW will be the first to give out NFTs, in partnership with THiNK:NFT. The festival board and executive team will also receive the special edition NFT Below is a selection of eight of the highlighted NFT collections and artists to be shown at Mammoth Film Festival™’s Immersive NFT Exhibition from February 3-6th at the Minaret Theatre complex, an activation curated by the Mammoth Film Festival’s Media and Partnerships Director Ali Lasky, Founder and CEO of The Influence, a leading influencer, publicity, branding and events agency, currently specializing heavily in the film, entertainment, lifestyle, hospitality and crypto/NFT arenas.
“We are so beyond excited to officially integrate NFTs into the 2022 festival. This has been an element we have been working to curate since early 2021 and a vision we were committed to seeing through. By the strategic alignment with THiNK:NFT, we are ecstatic to offer our 2022 award winners their very own Mammoth Film Festival™ award as a minted NFT. As a young festival, innovation and technology incorporated into the art of filmmaking, is definitely a focus of our festival vision, so the components of the Metaverse access and NFT Exhibit will truly add a unique element.” - Tomik Mansoori, Co-Founder, Mammoth Film Festival™
Featured 2022 Mammoth Film Festival THiNK NFT Exhibition Artists: FRIDGETS: Founded by Twilight’s Ashley Greene-Khoury, her husband, filmmaker Paul Khoury, sister-in-law Sarah Khoury & close family friend Sophia Silva. The Fridgit team is a group of creative minds, designers & developers bringing worlds together through the comfort of digital food. Fridgits is a food-based NFT Project with 20 individual ingredient-illustrated characters living on the Ethereum Network. The Fridgits Roadmap is based around the concept of these ingredients and how they interact with each other. We have developed a structured system meant to
build long-term community engagement and market growth using meticulously crafted gaming utilities. These utilities are meant to seriously compensate holders, collectors and traders while providing us the time and resources to build Fridgeport. The largest metaverse marketplace that bridges the gap between the multi-trillion dollar physical food industry and the limitless possibilities of web3 integration. Fridgit Holders are our Partners in this journey! See you in Fridgeport! ME.SHE.WE: www.me-she-we.com A limited series collection of NFTs that captures actress Katie Cassidy embracing the art of self-love with the intention of empowering women and inspiring them to love themselves. Available on OpenSea. Shot during Women’s History Month by celebrity photographers Drew and Derek Riker, Cassidy utilized a Love is Art cotton canvas along with black and white paint on her body to showcase her desire for women to appreciate, advocate and celebrate themselves.
THOTHS The Hieroglyphs of the soul: Leigh J. McCloskey is one of the most gifted artists of our time, and yet still a relatively unknown figure in the art world. For decades he has been transforming his home studio into a living work of art, in which even the walls and furniture are imbued with his unique visual philosophy and unmistakable style. This living canvas has evolved, and represented not just unique aesthetics, but an entire Universe that one can explore. Through the innovation of NFTS + Web3 communities, McCloskey's work and philosophical journey can now, for the first time ever, be shared with a global audience and allow us to experience the awe and mystery of the greatest kept secret in contemporary art. Community members will be able to not only collect the artwork and receive community benefits, but unlock sacred mysteries woven into the work itself. NOMAD BLVD: A collection of 3,500 Nomads created by and based on the iconic works of artist Isabelle Lago, including special edition pieces by 15 acclaimed artists. Your Nomad NFT doubles as membership to the BLVD, a place where artists, February 2022
89
25A
collectors and enthusiasts converge and collaborate on the future of the community and brand. DOLLABYTE: Created by renowned artist and master counterfeiter Arthur J. Williams Jr. will showcase his highly anticipated DollaByte NFT collection to drop in late February, which debuted a first sneak peek at Think:NFT’s NiftyAgenda by CoinAgenda event hosted by Michael Turpin at CES In Las Vegas January 10, as well as on the 80 foot LED screen at Zouk Nightclub in Las Vegas for their DollaByte CES Afterparty as ZEDD deejayed. DollaByte NFT is the first official NFT collection by Arthur J Williams Jr. set to officially launch in February 2022. These 10,240 unique NFTs are launching on the Ethereum and Terra Blockchain. Williams is known internationally as one of the best counterfeiters in the world for replicating the unbreakable 1996 series $100 bill. After serving three consecutive prison sentences for this act, he became a self-taught artist, now world renowned and in high-demand, with top VIPS and celebrities commissioning his work weekly. He owns two art galleries – DaVinci’s Gallery, in Los Angeles and his native Chicago. Arthur J Williams Jr. Dollabyte NFT Holders Utility: Fractional ownership in a real life rare watch collection will be stored at Sotheby’s and will be owned through the Dollabyte token. NFT holders can claim daily Dollabyte tokens by staking their NFTs. All royalties from the NFT collection will be given to Dollabyte to buy more rare watches for the collection and have more tokens available for staked NFTs. All NFT holders will be invited to exclusive Metaverse events including the first event where Arthur J. Williams Jr. will be painting live in the Metaverse. After completion of the art some of the attendees will receive NFTs of that art piece. 100 NFT holders from the Presale will be invited to a PRIVATE VIP YACHT PARTY in Miami for a meet and greet with Arthur. 1 NFT owner will receive a customized car, a Rolls Royce Ghost adorned with Arthur’s art. This NFT owner will collaborate with Arthur to create a custom skin on the car to make it a very personal experience. The last Rolls Royce Arthur produced sold for almost $800,000, effectively doubling the value of the car. 25 NFT owners will receive exclusive behind the scenes experience at a Donnie Yen blockbuster Hollywood movie. 25 NFT holders will receive and invitation for a workshop with Arthur either in person or via online (chosen by the NFT holder) STANLEY: Find Stanley! Stanley exudes a sense of positivity and wonderment, inspiring all who witness his journey. Stanley is an iconic image that encompasses adventure and childlike curiosity that resides in us all.
90
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Each Stanley NFT is hand drawn by Stanley Feldermen with its own unique traits and features. META BLOB WORLD: Blobs are survivors of the world's toxic waste environments. Grown from the hardships of sluggish negative energy, Blob's are creating a new virtual world of their own in the Meta Blob World. Blobs are a mirror reflection of the journey that humankind is experiencing during this transition from physical into the digital. Each Blob and family are hand drawn by Stanley Feldermen with their own unique traits and features. TERENCE CRAWFORD BOXING WELTERWEIGHT CAMP: Terence Crawford boxing Welterweight World Camp and founder of NFT company PixlBrd designed to support athletes to grow there business by using NFT’s. Terence will show NFTs from his collection Presented by Fightposium Comics, the NFTs are inspired by vintage comic book illustrations. UAKARI: Uakari is the first of its kind luxury fashion brand that leverages cutting edge technology to deliver next generation collectibles merging fashion, creativity, art, culture, and gaming. Uakari is a creator lead organization, born in the metaverse pioneering innovative fashion that redefines the boundaries of the physical and digital realities. Founded in 2021 by JP Ferro, Jackson Gilmore, Jared Szi, Kim Petry, and Glenn McMahon, the team's track record includes high-ranking positions at Dolce and Gabbana, Armani, Bored Ape Yacht Club and RTFKT. This dedicated team utilizes the latest in game engines, NFTs, artificial intelligence, blockchain technology and augmented reality to create one of a kind virtual products.
Inspired by the subjectivity of perception itself, uakari creates viral optical devices, designs, experiences, and collectibles. The vision is clear, Uakari will change the way you see the universe. Coming Spring 2022. HOUSE OF IVORY: House of Ivory is redefining what an NFT project is meant to be. This occultist community, wrapped in mystery, cryptic messages, and opportunity, is one grand science experiment that will reshape the world of NFTs. Each NFT is your membership to the House of Ivory DAO, which votes on community-led initiatives, and solely controls the project after the primary sale. Roadmap milestones and project utility includes the chance to partake in an inherent political structure, a plethora of interactive metaverse games built in Three.js and Unity, lore shrouded in mystery and puzzles which if solved can give you great rewards, dynamic metadata mechanisms, the opportunity to receive value for your rugged NFTs, and above all else, a loving family.
SIFT Director and visual effects artist Matteo Santoro presents SIFT, a narrative driven NFT project set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland riddled with malfunctioning war machines. Santoro wrote, directed, animated, and stars in SIFT. The 4 chapters sold out on Foundation in its first week and held the top position during its sale. All of the proceeds go towards development of the world of SIFT including a feature length film and a metaverse video game. The SIFT SOUL DRIVE project is an upcoming PFP that will give owners the chance to actually be IN the film as a futuristic hologram. Bridging the gap between sci-fi fans and the content they love. SIFT is utilizing the NFT world as a way to develop the universe by building with the community and connecting with the fans directly during the process. A synergistic experience that will continue to expand into a transmedia franchise.
About Mammoth Film Festival™ February 3-6th, 2022 in Mammoth Lakes, CA Mammoth Film Festival™ aims to lead the charge for an ever-changing landscape of film and media. Founded by seasoned filmmakers Tanner Beard and Tomik Mansoori, the festival first premiered in 2018 and specialized as an all-media platform, celebrating varieties of filmmakers, actors, directors, writers, producers and their respective work. Mammoth Film Festival™ is a 501c-3 nonprofit festival benefiting the Mammoth Media Institute and Mammoth Film Summit programs. Regal with the wonderful town of Mammoth Lakes, CA as its beautiful backdrop, MammothFF is held annually each February at the Minaret Cinemas along with a variety of venues throughout town, and The Village serving as the festival hub. This 4-day festival includes Red Carpet World Premieres and Special Screenings, a slate of Educational and Interactive Panel Discussions with Top Film Industry Leaders, Q&A’s, Press Junkets, Premiere Parties, Live Performances and a large array of Experiential Elements leading up to their Closing Night Awards Ceremony. The 2022 festival is presented by Marina Studios and Compelling Pictures, along with THiNK:NFT, and partners inclusive of Resorts World Las Vegas, Zouk Nightlife and PATH water. For festival information, the full 2022 lineup and continued festival updates please visit: mammothfilmfestival.org Download their IOS App to follow along for scheduling updates and real time festival news and badge registration. @MammothFilmFestival #MammothFF Download the Mammoth Film Festival™ app on the Apple Store and Google Play.
Metaverse Live Stream Info: Via IN.LIVE in SPATIAL (www.Spatial.io) February 2022
91
25A
92
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
CONVICTED COUNTERFEITER TURNED GLOBAL ARTIST
ARTHUR J. WILLIAMS JR. He went from making Counterfeit Money to Currency Oil painter and West Hollywood Gallery owner. He just redebuted his first NFT collection in Las Vegas
C
hicago native Arthur J. Williams Jr. is bestknown for his successful reproduction of the “impossible to replicate” $100 bill in the United States in 1996. Williams printed an estimated $10 million dollars in fabricated money before landing himself in prison for nearly seven years. Throughout his incarceration, Williams furthered his talent by taking art classes, and studying the works of Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo, attempting to combine their techniques with his talent.
art show since his jail sentence. The area has since become a hub for galleries, with 10+ galleries now located there.
He has completely turned his life around, and went on to get married and have kids. He is using his troubled past to change the world, and specifically focused on helping children. The way he speaks is so motivational and he feels so strongly about giving back.
He also has rare one of a kind behind the scenes images of The Beatles and Rolling Stones from their early touring days.
Renowned Master Counterfeiter turned world renowned Artist Arthur J Williams Jr. who just held an art exhibit during Art basel and hosted a pop up exhibit in his hometown Chicago neighborhood of Bridgeport showcasing his latest collection of in demand artwork, “One Hundred Dollabyte.” He is the actual subject behind the best selling novel: The Art of Making Money. www.arthurjwilliamsjr.com This is Arthur's old art gallery in his hometown neighborhood, the first time he is returning with an
His big break came during Art Basel in Miami when he caught the attention of representatives for Arnold Schwarzenegger’s after-school program, AfterSchool All-Stars, who invited him to one of the actor’s fundraisers at his home in L.A. Williams’s art raised more than $180,000 for the charity.
He just celebrated his Dollabyte NFT launch following the close of CES in Las Vegas, at ZOUK nightclub at Resorts World Las Vegas. While ZEDD performed, the entire venue was filled with LED screens showcasing Arthur's Dollabyte 3-D digital NFT as Arthur J. Williams Jr along with Think:NFT founder and Pink Floyd Saxophonist Scott Page toasted to the launch at the energy-filled Vegas club bash. The previous evening, January 6, 2022, The Dollabyte Officially debuted at Nifty-Agenda by Coin-Agenda with Think:NFT. February 2022
93
25A
ARTIST
KELLY STYNE “Palm Beach reminds me of my childhood as my grandmother lived there, so we would constantly go visit her…very happy, beautiful times! The sunshine and the the combination of old world charm and fresh vibes always puts a smile on my face and warmth in my heart.” -Kelly Styne Kellystyneart.com
94
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
95
25A
96
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
97
25A
Federico Uribe artwork
B
By Adam Adelson
orn in Bogotá, Colombia in 1962, Federico Uribe currently lives and works in Miami. His artwork resists classification and emerges from intertwining everyday objects in surprising ways that maintain a formal reference to art history. Uribe studied art at the University of Los Andes in Bogotá, and by 1988 he arrived in New York to pursue an MFA degree under the supervision of Luis Camnitzer. After receiving his degree, he left New York to study and work in Cuba, Mexico, Russia, England, and finally Miami.
In 1996, Uribe abandoned his paintbrushes and canvases in favor of household objects (plastic cutlery, colored pencils, and so on). He began to carefully observe, collect, juxtapose, and combine this alternative media. They have become unusual instruments of a new aesthetic, full of color, irony, and lively playfulness. When observed closely, his works reveal various kinds of interpretations; they tempt 98
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
us to touch them, to discover the detail and connection between one element and another. When viewed from further away, they offer volumes, forms, textures, and color. His creations elicit excitement and intrigue from all walks of life, and the novelty of the media often belies the compelling aesthetic merit of each work of art.
Uribe’s work has become prominent in the United States over the past decade. His artwork has been collected by and featured in multiple museums around North and South America. Uribe’s work is rapidly becoming some of the most s ought-after contemporary art around the world. In this past year alone, Uribe’s work has been shown in Europe, Asia, and widely across the United States.
"Lush" is an immersive installation of Federico Uribe's work currently on view at Adelson Galleries in Palm Beach located at 318 Worth Avenue. February 2022
99
25A
100
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
101
Cavalier Gallery & Chase Edwards Grand Openings
25A
10% of proceeds benefitted Dreyfoos School of the Arts’ Duke Nelson Memorial Scholarship
Bonnie Edwards, Ron Cavalier
Bill Burns, Julia Graner
C
Kristin Walsh, Andrea Huainigg
Trish Savides, Chris Snyder
Eleanora Kennedy, Priscilla Rattazzi
avalier Gallery in collaboration with Chase Edwards Contemporary Galleries hosted a Grand Opening Reception in celebration of their new Palm Beach locations at 292 and 290A South County Road on Saturday, January 15, from 5-8pm. The exhibit featured some of the some of the finest modern and contemporary artwork of our day. Ten percent of proceeds from the night’s event benefitted Dreyfoos School of the Arts’ Duke Nelson Memorial Scholarship, a grant intended to assist an underprivileged Dreyfoos senior with college expenses after graduation. Over 200 guests stopped by the opening celebration which lasted three hours to allow for safe distancing. “We were thrilled with the enthusiasm and attendance,” said Ron Cavalier, “We managed to keep a continuous flow and keep the galleries from being overcrowded,” In addition to gallery owners Ron Cavalier and Bonnie Edwards, guests included Chris Snyder, Executive Director of Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation; Eleanora Kennedy, Priscilla Rattazzi, Mark Foley and Ryan Ruark, Emily Dryer, Andrew Fraser, Andrea Huainigg, Haleh Aleman, Caryna Nina, Corinne Althauser, Lisa Miller, Ruth Miller, Nathan Coe, Joe Mele, Ed Carter, Luke Bjoin, Izzy Goodkind,
102
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Amanda Bertizlian, Haleh Aleman
Cara Amedori, Hollis Pica, Izzy Goodkind
Caryna Nina, Kim Dryer
Kim Renk, Sue Jin Seth, Vincent and Dahna Basilice and Jeffrey O’Brecht. Cavalier Gallery’s new location at 292 S County Rd will be dedicated primarily to photography and sculpture. Our “Group Photography Show,” featuring work by Nathan Coe, Mark Kornbluth, Steve McCurry, Terry O’Neil, Ruth Orkin, Norman Parkinson, Debranne Cingari and Laura Jane Petelko, will be on view through January 31st. “We are pleased to have Chase Edwards Contemporary Gallery joining the Palm Beach art community in the space next door – 290A S County Rd. In their first major Palm Beach exhibition, Chase Edwards Contemporary Gallery will be showing a selection of works by Bjorn Skaarup, Jim Rennert, Hamilton Aguiar, and more,” said Ron Cavalier. Please email us at art@cavaliergalleries.com and chaseedwardsgallery@gmail. com with any questions. Please note that Cavalier Gallery will continue operation out of our 235c Worth Ave location, which will remain dedicated to exhibiting paintings.
Cuban artist
KADIR LOPEZ NIEVES Featured at Cavalier Galleries
C
avalier Galleries, located at 235 Worth Avenue, will be exclusively representing internationally renowned Cuban artist Kadir Lopez Nieves in the United States. Kadir, who is in the process of moving to the area, will be introducing select works from his ‘Gangster Series’ during an exhibit at Cavalier in February. “I’m so excited to come back to Palm Beach where I was so warmly welcomed. With a permanent home at this fabulous gallery, I will be able to spend quality time with collectors I have been addressing remotely for so many years,” said Kadir. In Sign's series Kadir López utilizes vintage, 1950`s marketing signs from American companies that were part of the prerevolutionary Cuban cityscape. They evidence the close ties that existed between Cuba and United States during this era. Most of the signs recovered were burned or shot at by the rebels upon their arrival to Havana in 1959. Several years ago, the artist began purchasing the discarded signs from scrap yards and independent sellers throughout Cuba. After researching the background history of these remaining signs, Kadir collaged them with archival photo-images from this era. Many of the photographic images are of the time period and location from which the signs were taken. Others provide a snapshot of Havana which often foreshadow the tumultuous events about to take place. Manufactured with serigraphic engraving, instead of traditional pigments for painting the signs, the techniques of porcelain baking were used. The colors were backed separately after being applied over steel, in different consecutive layers, until the desired design was achieved. It is upon these aging supports that the artist paint, draws and create his own interpretations with ceramic pigments, resins, enamels and other materials that naturally allow for transparency in order to let these photographic images of Old Havana, selected by the artist, to reveal the original signage beneath. These are one-of-a-kind pieces that depict the last days of pre-revolutionary, Cuban-American history. Visit: www.kadirlopez.com February 2022
103
25A
ALEXANDER CALDER (1898-1976)
THE VALET 1975 Gouache on paper 43 1/4 x 29 1/2 inches (109.9 x 74.9cm.) Signed and dated ‘75 Calder’ (lower right) This work is registered with the Caler Foundation, New York under application number A07260
Celebrating over 40 years in the fine art business Russeck Gallery surveys the best of 20th Century American and European painting, sculpture and major works on paper. Russeck Gallery prides itself on respecting tradition, but also having an eye for quality and a vision toward the future. Russeck Gallery is a family owned gallery that originated in Philadelphia in 1968. The gallery specializes in paintings, sculpture, and major works on paper by 20th-century artists. Our interests also include paintings and sculpture of the late 19th- and early 20th-century American west. 104
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
HOLDEN LUNTZ GALLERY "FASHION WITH AN EDGE"
W
Jim Lee — Ossie Clark, Aeroplane
hen referencing the various forms of art, often things outside of what we consider the “norm” are more interesting and original than what we traditionally expect. For instance, fringe theatre can feel more alive than classic theatre, alt music, or indie music can seem fresher than contemporary hits, and newer more daring artists can make work that engages us in a way that art that has been embraced by the masses does not. One could make a similar argument with respect to various sub-categories within the discipline of photography. Holden Luntz Gallery has always had an interest in exhibiting the work of well-known photographers who shoot fashion-based work. Since these photographers work in the service of the fashion industry to help promote and sell goods, they have had to understand the psychology of what makes something desirable. Ideas of dream, fantasy, obsession, and beauty have been relevant factors in the creation of these works. Since the advent of fashion magazines and media coverage of style going back to the 1930’s, there have become standard notions of how fashion pictures are supposed to work. The ways an image can objectify beauty, indulge a particular privilege or elevated status, and create an escape from the everyday have been standard conceits in traditional fashion photographs. Steichen, Meyer, Beaton, Penn, Hoyningen-Huene and Horst have set the very high standards that makers of classic fashion images aspire to. They relied on classic sculpture, painting, and rules of composition, as well as the use of culturally elite personalities to create a sense of allure and elevation. In almost every art form – or medium of expression – tastes change throughout time. Society has evolved at an ever more rapid pace in the last half-century. The way one moves through the world has also changed. It is only natural that artists with newer visions look to address a world that has developed beyond the prosperity of the post-War periods and development of modernism – and post -modernism. If the images that fashion photographers create can be thought of as a language – languages adapt with time and use.
Clive Arrowsmith — Penelope Tree February 2022
105
Melvin Sokolsky — Free Bubble Parking II
Melvin Sokolsky — Mirror Dance II 106
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
This exhibition showcases photographers who have been committed to producing images dealing with fashion in unconventional ways. They have taken language and reshaped it to express their desires and fascinations. Photographers such as Helmut Newton, Frank Horvat, Jim Lee, Clive Arrowsmith, William Klein, Albert Watson, and Melvin Sokolsky have become memorable because they broke rules and broke out in creative directions that were their own. Rather than work at the center of fashion – they approached it from the edge to create images that stopped the viewer and brought them into an unknown world. They strived to produce images that were dynamic and untraditional. Importantly, none of these photographers had classic training in fashion.
dovetailed his larger interest into making portraits of musicians and tastemakers. Jim Lee has designed over 300 high level commercial campaigns, directed feature length film, and found an edgy, offbeat way to compose, crop and sequence pictures. They are not specific fashion pictures but were made to showcase the work of great designers. He was an early proponent of both soft-focus images, making and the use of an impressionist color palette. Melvin Sokolsky – since the early 1960’s with his ‘bubble’ and ‘flying’ pictures has set himself up to challenge the limitations of gravity and reality. He subverts our normal expectations, and we see the pictures as dream like constructions where beauty becomes both elusive and untouchable. Again, experience and his keen imagination rather than classic apprentice work in fashion have been his teachers.
Frank Horvat was a documentary photographer – who embraced natural light, hand-held cameras, and the spontaneous. Helmut Newton became notorious for his edginess and nudes that empowered women – but also produced cutting edge stories for French Vogue. Albert Watson learned photography after art school – as did William Klein – but never had an exclusive interest in fashionbased images – Watson has shot so many different campaigns and taken so many distinguished portraits that – when he shoots a fashion campaign, he approaches it from a broader vantage point. He has shot film and video as well. William Klein was an American trained painter who moved to Paris and started making mixed media collages and later on worked into the creative world of fashion. He purposely experimented with various lenses, film speeds, and has been a filmmaker as well. Clive Arrowsmith developed an interest in fashion that
One could posit that developing outside the parameters of traditional fashion has allowed the photographers in this exhibition a radical freedom from normative ideas. In a world where the presentation of fashion pictures was predictable there was little room, from the inside, for disruption. Traditional fashion images were idyllic but utterly unreal. Crossing boundaries can mean creating imbalances, acting on impulses, and pushing the media in new ways. Some of the images in this exhibition can seem threatening or jarring, but in a larger sense life is unpredictable and there is an energy and vitality in encountering the unexpected and being open to looking at photographs in a new way. Both spoken and visual languages evolve to meet the needs of those who want to communicate new thoughts in a changing world. It is in this spirit that we present “Fashion with an Edge.”
Jim Lee — Loli Red Shoes February 2022
107
25A
THE SECRET LIFE OF A POLO PLAYER A personal story, behind the scenes By Rebekah Pizana
Y
ou’ve heard of polo.
That adrenaline-fueled sport played in Wellington, Florida, just 20 minutes or so west of West Palm Beach. Insanely talented athletes gallop 40+ miles per hour down a field, just for a trophy? No, it is so much more. It’s a lifestyle, a passion, a pursuit. When I started polo in 2015, I didn’t realize it would be the hardest endeavor I have ever committed to in my life. And by committed, I mean addicted. Riding is fun, the social life is fun, and there is nothing like a day at the barn with horses. But then the hard work arrives; it's not just about taking a cool Instagram picture or getting a highfive from an onlooker. It’s a high risk sport, and to play well, it takes hours and hours of riding, practice (pre-game chukkers), what we call “stick and ball” (training on the horse with the mallet), proper eating, proper exercise, and loads of sleep. And even then, you can play mediocre at best. Most professionals have been in the saddle since they were four or five years old – horses are in their blood; they were probably born with a mallet in hand. It is also a mental game, and mental preparation is a key part of every athlete’s pre-game routine. The field consists of two four-player teams dressed in white pants, branded jerseys, regulation helmets, boots and knee guards. The sport seems intense enough to keep someone fit and toned. But like any other professional athlete, it takes consistent preparation, recovery, and dietary routines to stay in shape for the game. Watch as a player works the mallet with their right arm, reigns in the left, mainly using legs and core to control the horse. The ball is steered, stopped, turned, and tapped towards two goal posts, while the other seven players bump each other to defend and change the line of the ball as they gallop in tandem down the field, all the while at high speed. Diet, exercise, nutrition, recovery and mental health all play key roles in the life of a sponsor (i.e. the team “patron” or “patrona”) as well as the professional (higher rated player hired for the team). Most highgoal teams employ personal trainers and physical therapists. Many players incorporate yoga. “It is equally essential to prepare your body and recover your body in order to prolong your playing career,” says India Parker-Smith. Parker-Smith of Chukka Wellness, has worked with many medium and high-goal players including Nina Clarkin, Rebecca Walters, Thai Polo Team (UK), Schockemole Polo Team (DE), Farmington Polo Team (USA), Santiago Araya and Ned Hine to change their fitness programs drastically for pre-season. Chukka Wellness reveals the ingredients needed to become “polo fit”: 108
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
India Parker-Smith and Rebekah Pizana Photography: Scott Giddens
Lucio Fernandez Ocampo Photography: Wendy Fld
“Mobility exercises help to reduce risk of injury and contribute to the strengthening of muscles and joints within the correct biomechanical position,” says Parker-Smith. “Common injuries including sore backs, tennis elbow, wrist strains, rider muscles strains. The majority of the time these injuries occur through lack of mobility and players not performing an effective mobility routine.” A polo player’s body can take quite a beating in just one season. The defensive ride offs, the repetitive swinging actions, frequent falls, and simply trying to control a 1,000-pound animal. Sylvester Stallone, a former polo player himself, sums it up well, “Playing polo is like trying to play golf during an earthquake.”
For a patrona (i.e. a female team sponsor), polo did not come easy for me. After seven years, I am still not a very good player, but I love the sport and have an even greater passion for the horses (most would say the “true” athletes). I started with training for several months a year with a polo instructor in any location I could find one throughout my pre-COVID travels. I would begin lessons as early as 6am or 7am. Learning to gallop, stop, whip, turn, swing offside, nearside, back, tail, and go again, for hours. The next step was stripping my diet and rebuilding. I have a small frame and it takes quite a bit for me to build muscle and maintain it. I had digestive issues, energy depletion, and insomnia. My nutritionist helped me to break everything down, and build my diet back up slowly and carefully with the right foods and supplements. This took about two years. I worked with a few physical trainers, yoga instructors and the main focus was turning my nutrition into proper February 2022
109
25A muscle, increasing my energy with the right fuel, and working on mobility and flexibility for riding and rotating on the horse (with the mallet) as well as injury prevention. In 2018, I suffered from nerve pain in my neck (from arena polo), which lasted a year, and underwent physical therapy for three months. In January 2021, I broke my right (mallet hand) wrist in three places. One plate and three screws later, I do think my swing has never been better. But my riding took a toll because I lost 10-15 pounds that I did not have, and had other stress in my life that kept my cortisol levels through the roof. Several months of physical therapy, and I was back to playing polo. But not without setbacks, I still have not met my goals. Personally inspired by equestrian athletes (of all disciplines), I began frequenting recovery clinics for several years, including IV Therapy, massage, and cyrotherapy. In my post-surgery life, my biggest regret is not starting these lifestyle changes sooner. Post-game recovery, regardless of past injuries, is as essential as preparation. Cristina Parr, founder of a new venture focused on polo athlete recovery, has been playing since 2008. A personal trainer and nutritionist for 12 years, Parr saw how recovery was essential for optimum performance on and off the field. She started focusing on her own routines and quickly felt motivated to help other players feel their best. This fall, Parr launches her business, which focuses strictly on pre-game performance preparation and post-game recovery. “I want to work with the trainers of polo to provide their clients with equipment modalities such as cryotherapy and infrared light therapy and leave all the training to them,” Parr says. “Essentially I’d be the injury and inflammation healer. I’m hoping the synergy between what I offer and the personal trainers do with their teams will help polo players perform better than they ever have before.” Parr is your typical lifelong athlete with a list of injuries: damage to her spine, joints, and soft tissue. “I have no choice but to have a team of doctors that keep me in the game,” Parr says. With this in mind, her new recovery venture will meet needs that are in high-demand. There is so much more to be said about the day-to-day life of a polo player (level notwithstanding) and the small details you may never think are an essential part of a seemingly exclusive sport. It’s not so much a secret life, but an unfamiliar one and unlike any other pop culture sport in the world. Did you think the routine of a polo athlete was intense as an NFL quarterback? I didn’t. Cristina Parr 110
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
February 2022
111
25A
GREEN STREAM HOLDINGS, INC.
INNOVATIVE SOLAR CANOPY New Canopies Designed By Morali Architects & Amergy Solar Inc. By Lillian Langtry
G
reen Stream Holdings Inc., an emerging leader in the solar utility and finance space, announced that its All Faiths Cemetery Solar Facility Project has been approved by The New York City (NYC) Department of Buildings for compliance with all applicable zoning and construction regulations. The multi-million dollar deal is being financed by Green Stream Holdings, Inc. to cover equipment and installation costs. CEO James DiPrima said: “The All Faiths Cemetery Project has cleared first phase towards completion of a 3.3 Mega Watt Solar Facility in All Faiths Cemetery, Middle Village Queens NY. We are evaluating 2 back of house areas: Area1. The greenhouse maintenance area covering 52,000 sq ft; and Area2 the Dumping Ground, covering 120,000 sq ft.” The system, which will be approximately 14 ft above grade, will allow for cemetery operations to coexist. It will provide renewable energy via the NYS Community Solar Program. An additional approval by the New York State Board of Directors is required upon which a Con Edison Interconnect Agreement will be applied for. All Faiths Cemetery is in process of finalizing a lease Agreement, which will provide funds to maintain the Cemetery. According to our current plans, we project to have completed the facility by Sept 1, 2022. This is wonderful news for shareholders and partners. The Company previously entered into a contract with Amergy Solar Inc. to provide funds to cover
112
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Equipment and Installation Costs for the 7,400kw ground mounted Solar Photovoltaic System Installation for a Solar Farm at 4777 Dewey Ave, Greece, NY 14612. Green Stream Finance, Inc., a solar utility and finance company with satellite offices in Malibu, CA and New York, NY, is focused on efficiently developing supplemental utilities in unmet markets using solar energy, and is currently licensed in California, Nevada, Arizona, Washington, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Colorado, Hawaii, and Canada. The Company’s next-generation solar greenhouses constructed and managed by Green Rain Solar, LLC, a Nevada-based division, utilize proprietary greenhouse technology and trademarked design developed by world-renowned architect Mr. Anthony Morali. The Company is currently targeting high-growth solar market segments for its advanced solar greenhouse and advanced solar battery products. The Company has a growing footprint in the significantly underserved solar market in New York City and New York State. It is targeting 1,000,000 square feet of rooftop space for solar panel installation, open areas for solar canopies, solar farms, etc. Green Stream is looking to forge key partnership with major investment groups, brokers, and private investors in order to capitalize on a variety of unique investment opportunities in the commercial solar energy markets. The Company is dedicated to becoming a major player in this critical space. Through its innovative solar product offerings and industry partnerships, the Company is well-positioned to become a significant player in the solar space. greensolarutility.com
ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILDHOOD CANCERS IMPROVE OVERALL HEALTH WITH REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
I
By Lillian Langtry
t is estimated that nearly 8% of the more than 500,000 childhood cancer survivors in the United States show signs of “old age” at much younger ages than their non-cancer counterparts. A new paper, Physical activity and fitness in childhood cancer survivors: A scoping review, published in the December issue of Aging AND Cancer, shows that childhood cancer survivors who participate in regular physical activity have improved markers of cardiovascular health, a lower risk of overt cardiovascular disease, increased neurocognition, and a lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to childhood cancer survivors who do not participate in physical activity.
The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is international organization dedicated to cancer research and prevention. The Foundation is a cancer research pioneer, with the mission of eradicating cancer through cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer, as well as developing minimally toxic treatments for patients. Investigators share information and tools to accelerate cancer research through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to more than 200 researchers worldwide.
“While advancements in treating cancer have greatly improved, most therapeutics can have negative impacts on the human body,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, CEO and Founder of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. “This study is important for two reasons. First, it demonstrates that maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle can help combat the long-term consequences from some cancer treatments, and secondly, that we must prioritize research to develop new medications that are both effective and also less toxic.”
For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org.
Aging AND Cancer is a relatively new open access journal from Wiley Publishing produced in affiliation with the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. The most recent issue includes three additional papers: · FOXO3 regulates a common genomic program in aging and glioblastoma stem cells, E. Webb, et al · Long-term analysis of irradiated skin after breast-conserving surgery in breast cancer patients using noninvasive imaging, Osanai, et al · An outlook on the lymph nodes dissection during the pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer, Weishen Wang and Baiyong Shen
Aging AND Cancer is a relatively new open access journal from Wiley that focuses on understanding how the aging process is a key component of cancer evolution and progression. The journal publishes basic, translational, and clinical research findings of broad interest, examining the mechanisms by which age-related deterioration of the individual, from macromolecules to tissues and organs, promotes the onset, progression, and relapse of cancer, and influences treatment options and outcomes. This journal provides a forum for new findings and ideas that improve our understanding of how old age influences many different aspects of cancer, from incidence to development and pathology to treatment outcomes to psychosocial aspects of cancer living. The journal is published in affiliation with the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. For more information, visit onlinelibrary.wiley. com/journal/26438909. February 2022
113
25A
Dr. White and Neobiosis set sail in July of 2020 with a team of talented scientists, physicians, and businesspeople steering the ship towards the fountain of youth. Their flagship product is a purified amniotic fluid product developed by Dr. White. It may reveal the promise of increased longevity and unleash the power of anti-aging by harnessing the body’s ability to heal itself and making available the ability to transplant youth. The products in development by Dr. White and Neobiosis spring from early experiments at Harvard and the discovery of Heterochronic Parabiosis. In these early experiments, two mice were sewn together, one young and one old, and it was discovered that as the mice were sharing each others blood, the old mouse was becoming younger while the young mouse became older. Pregnancy is a natural example of heterochronic parabiosis that exists within the human species. During pregnancy, the fetus is growing in the mother’s womb with a shared blood supply; the fetus is respiring and consuming amniotic fluid. Simultaneously, the vesicles secreted from the cells in the fluid communicate with the mother, ensuring the mother’s immune system doesn’t reject the fetus. Consequently, in the third trimester, the mother’s heart functions at the level of an Olympic athlete, on an ongoing basis, for the entirety of the final and longest trimester of pregnancy.
PALM BEACHES’
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
I
By A.B. O’Toole
n 1513 Spanish Conquistador Ponce de Leon led the first known European expedition to “ La Florida.” De Leon’s mission was to discover the elusive fountain of youth, a mythical spring that restores youth to anyone who drinks or bathes from it. But, of course, De Leon never found the spring, and the search for anti-aging and products that promise to restore youth continues in the modern day. South Florida has its own anti-aging conquistador continuing in the legacy of Ponce, yet using science instead of mythology, in Dr. Ian White Ph.D. Dr. White and his company, Neobiosis LLC, are embarking on a voyage of discovery and development utilizing the latest breakthroughs in medical advancements to create products that have tremendous potential in stopping the proverbial clock. Dr. White is an expert in the field of regenerative medicine and stem cell biology with over 20 years of experience working in academia and industry. Before being hired at Dartmouth College, Dr. White received his B.S. from Liverpool John Moores University and his M.S. from the famed Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine in England. White was then recruited to Harvard to work in cell biology and finally received his Ph.D. in Stem Cell Biology from the Ansary Stem Cell Institute, division of Regenerative Medicine at Cornell University. Dr. White then relocated to the interdisciplinary stem cell institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, established by Dr. Pascal Goldschmidt during his tenure as Dean of Medicine at the University of Miami (now the Chief Medical Officer of Neobiosis).
114
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
The awesomeness of pregnancy inspired Dr. White to develop a line of products available to the medical community so the public can benefit from the miracle technology nature has made available in live births. The vesicles isolated in the amniotic fluid are packed with the messages of youth, the fluid of new life is harnessed for rejuvenation of the skin, and medically is being researched in other conditions. As we age, our body loses the ability to regenerate itself. This is an evolutionally preserved mechanism to exit us from the gene pool. Dr. White hypothesized that we could harness the ability of youth to regenerate and transplant it into adults. A baby’s skin is soft and subtle due to the types of collagen produced within the skin. As we age, we lose these “young collagens.” The products made at Neobiosis contain the messages necessary to promote the production of young collagen in aged skin. The tiny lipid particles in the products allow for rapid absorption by the skin in the treatment areas, reducing redness and inflammation often seen postprocedure, and decreasing healing time. As a result, the skin is brightened, tone and texture improve, fine lines soften, and over time wrinkles are reduced. In facial aesthetics, many practitioners use the Neobiosis product Lilium post-procedure to accelerate and extend the procedure’s results. Additionally, Lilium is being used in hair restoration procedures, harnessing the power of science behind the fluid of new life to renew and regenerate thinning hairlines which is common in peri-menopausal women as well as in a large swath of the male population. Although, two common factors causing hair loss are decreased blood flow and inflammation; the lipid particles in Lilium allow for rapid absorption by the scalp to help facilitate hair growth. For centuries, discoverers from conquistadors searching for the mythical fountain of youth to scientists in the modern scientific age have been searching for the keys to longevity. South Florida now sits at the precipice of being on the cusp of new discoveries in anti-aging as Neoboisis and its team continue their production and research in the space, an apropos development considering the 1513 first official European expedition to Florida in search of the fountain of youth. The spirit of Ponce De Leon lives on in South Florida through new scientific advances in anti-aging and longevity being conceived by Dr. White and the Neobiosis team.
HOPE FOR DEPRESSION RESEARCH FOUNDATION (HDRF) EXPERTS ADDRESS GLOBAL EPIDEMIC OF DEPRESSION AT THE FOUR ARTS SOCIETY The Lecture was Followed by a Luncheon to Launch HDRF’s First Ever Palm Beach Junior Committee
O
ver 80 guests attended a special presentation by Audrey Gruss, Founder and Chair of Hope for Depression Research Foundation and Dr. Eric Nestler, Chair of the HDRF Depression Task Force, at The Four Arts Society on January 6th. The lectures addressed the magnitude of depressive illness globally and in the U.S., where surveys show a third of Americans are experiencing depression and anxiety in the wake of the pandemic.
Mona Nasser, Josh Sagman, Carolina Buia Barefoot
Dr. Eric Nestler and Audrey Gruss
In the presentation, Gruss emphasized the need for biomedical research to find much-needed new treatments for depression and its related mood disorders, especially as the world reels from Covid-19. Dr. Nestler discussed how HDRF’s team of top neuroscientists -- the Depression Task Force – have identified new opportunities for cures through advanced brain research. He shared the hopeful news that their strides in research have led to a pilot clinical trial now underway to test a brand new category of antidepressant. Another hopeful part of the day was the official launch of Hope for Depression’s Inaugural Palm Beach Junior Committee – a core group of young parents and professionals dedicated to raise mental health awareness in their communities. They were invited to attend the lecture and a special luncheon afterwards with Dr. Nestler and Audrey Gruss at Le Bilboquet. Gruss said: “Young people, increasingly, are much more open about mental health issues. As Palm Beach sees a major influx of young people and families, we want to harness their passion to find solutions to depression, one of the greatest issues facing humanity today.”
Photos: Capehart Photography
Lourdes de Guardiola Morrissey, Jane Stevens
Wendy Benichou, Dominique Buaron
Kameron Ramirez, Hollis Pica
“I am so happy I took the day off to attend the lecture and luncheon,” said Lourdes de Guardiola, equestrian trainer and owner of Imperial Show Stables, “it’s important that I educate myself on recognizing symptoms so that I may intelligently guide my students to seek professional help when needed. I learned a great deal from the lecture and was delighted to have the opportunity to speak further with Dr. Nestler. He was not only informative but refreshingly accessible.” The first focus of the Palm Beach Junior Committee will be the Fourth Annual Palm Beach Race of Hope, a 5K Walk/Run to be held on Saturday, February 26 at 8 am. To everyone’s delight, during the luncheon, Le Bilboquet Chef Adabis Castro came to the table to announce he was forming a “Team Bilbo” of colleagues to participate in the Race.
Audrey Gruss, Kara Ross
Stephanie and Andrew Filauro
Stacey Leuliette, Bettina Anderson
The Junior Committee will also work with HDRF scientists and staff to create educational seminars about depression causes, symptoms and treatment to launch in Palm Beach area schools in the fall of 2022. February 2022
115
25A
FOURTH ANNUAL PALM BEACH RACE OF HOPE CELEBRATES ITS INAUGURAL PALM BEACH JUNIOR COMMITTEE Chairman PJ Quick Pollack Hosts Special Soirée Introducing New Generation to Hope for Depression Research Foundation
P
J Quick Pollack, Junior Chair of the Fourth Annual Palm Beach Race of Hope, hosted a festive soirée to celebrate the inaugural Palm Beach Junior Committee on Thursday, January 27. Over 90 junior members and their guests attended the event which took place at Tricia Quick’s private residence. Dressed in their Palm Beach best, Junior Committee members and their friends conversed, enjoyed poolside music by DJ James Simmons, and delighted in delicious passed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails served throughout the elegant Mediterranean residence.
The party was so successful that it lasted way past the end hour. New friendships were forged and strong commitments to band together among this younger generation were established, as they learned of new ways to combat depression. Pollack thanked junior committee members and guests for their commitment to raising funds and participating at the upcoming race on February 26th at 8 a.m.
each other, and we need to support new, innovative therapies that may one day bring depression to a standstill." Audrey Gruss, founder of HDRF, was moved by the overwhelming attendance. “I am so thrilled that Palm Beach’s new, young guard has expressed so much interest and is running with the baton. Their energy to learn more about the issue and take action is unparalleled. I want to thank PJ Quick Pollack and Tricia Quick for being so instrumental in launching this inaugural junior committee.” The Junior Committee will also work with HDRF scientists and staff to create educational seminars about depression causes, symptoms and treatment to launch in Palm Beach area schools in the fall of 2022.
“I’m excited to spearhead efforts for a cause that is so important to me and my peers,” says PJ Quick Pollack. "Like everyone, young adults are struggling with the uncertainty and isolation caused by the pandemic. Many are experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. My generation wants to make sure that everyone realizes that it is okay to speak out about depression and seek help. We need to be here for each other, and we need to support innovative research into new and better treatments so we can one day get clinical depression under control. The pandemic certainly cast a pall on our generation as many faced new or recurring episodes of depression. My generation wants to make sure that everyone realizes there is nothing taboo about depression. We need to be here for 116
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com Junior Committee and Guests During Speeches by Chairs
Greg Gozzo, Jake Fusia, Hollis Bradley Pica, Bert Posess, PJ Quick Pollack, Robert Riva, Caleb Smith
Kameron Ramirez, Bettina Anderson
Carolina Buia Barefoot, Hollis Bradley Pica, Bettina Anderson
Junior Chair PJ Quick Pollack, Robert Riva and Caleb Smith
Nolan and Michael Greenwald
Jake Fusia, Joshua Sagman
Kadir Lopez Nieves, Marzia Precoda
Tricia Quick with Co-Chairs Scott Snyder and Audrey Gruss
Andrew Boszardt, Louise Benton
Photography: Annie Watt
Junior committee who attended include co-chairs Andrew & Stephanie Filauro, Caleb Smith and Hollis Pica; and members Bettina Anderson, Carolina Buia Barefoot, Oliver Grace III, Nolan and Michael Greenwald, Lourdes de Guardiola, Maggie Haigh, Kevin Condon, Isabella Meyer, Alexis Posada TeStrake, Kameron Ramirez, Robert Riva, Joshua Sagman, Whitney Lovell Schott, Kirsten Smith, Jane Stevens, Casey Taylor, Tom Treacy and Alvin Valley. Junior committee members not able to attend were co-chairs Charlotte Bocly and Sarah Wetenhall and members Wendy Benichou, Samantha Curry, Brianne Goutal, Katherine Lande, Stacey Leuliette, Nick Mele, Emma Holzer, Lauren Merck, Dr. Richard Miron, Abigail Owen-Pontez, Michael Gregson-Reinert; Nic Roldan; Mathieu Rosinsky, Pamela Tombari and Grace Wills. Fourth Annual Palm Beach Race of Hope Sponsors Sponsors of the Fourth Annual Race of Hope include Royal Poinciana Plaza, Findlay Galleries, Livingston Builders, Impala Asset Management, Smith & Elkin CPA, P.A., Hive Collections, Hamilton Jewelers, Gunster, Jefferson Capital, Le Bilboquet, Aktion Art, Brown Moving and Storage, Frances Valentine, Tammy Fender Holistic Skin Care, Sant Ambroeus, Palm Beach Illustrated, Fit 2 Run, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Sunreef Yachts, Alvin Valley and Institut Le Rosey. Fourth Annual Palm Beach Race of Hope Committee Members James R. Borynack & Adolfo Zaralegui, Dominique Buaron, Jamee & Peter Gregory, Tricia Quick, James & Teresa Remez/Livingston Builders, Catherine Adler, Annabelle & Denis Coleman, Jr., Deborah & Philippe Dauman, The Honorable David Fischer & Jennifer Fischer, Nicola Marcus, Heidi & Tom McWilliams, Renee & Carlos Morrison, PJ Quick Pollack, Thomas C. Quick & Michael Donnell, Becky & F. William Bryan, James H. Coleman, Julie & Mike Connors, Maria & Kenneth Fishel, William E. Flaherty, Cindy & Chris Galvin, Felicia & Peter Gottsegen, Charles and Kaaren Hale,
Joseph Hernandez, Tania & Brian Higgins, Darlene & Jerry Jordan, Sheila & Robert Josephberg, Melanie & Roger Lawson, Petra & Stephen Levin, Robert F. Mancuso, Anita & Sam Michaels, Muffy & Donald Miller, Joel Pashcow, Jeffrey Pfeifle, Amy & John Phelan, Marzia Precoda, Kara Ross, Agneta Angel, Paola Bacchini Rosenshein, Bruce Bierman & William Secord, CeCe Black, Kimmy & Steve Brauer, Sharon Bush & Robert C. Murray, Anne Fisher, Frances Fisher, Linda Gary & Michael Belisle, Heidi Hanna, Nicki & Ira Harris, Inez Fogel Heery, Manager, Greenleaf & Crosby, Yaz & Valentin Hernandez, Eve & Herb Jacobi, Ann Follis Jeffery, Jayne T. Keith, Eleanora Kennedy, Carol & Earle Mack, Annabelle & Alberto Mariaca, William A. Meyer, John & Carole Moran, Diana Morrison, Lucia N. Musso, Linda Olsson, Sallie B. Phillips, Joanna Roland, Frances G. Scaife, Barbara & Randall Smith, Ginny & David Sydorick, Betsy & Wally Turner, Nicholas Varney, Lis Waterman, Ellen & James Wilner, Nancy Yanofsky & Ed Brown, Clelia & Tom Zacharias, David Zislin About HDRF Audrey Gruss founded HDRF in April 2006 in memory of her mother Hope, who struggled with clinical depression. Today, with its Depression Task Force of top brain scientists, HDRF is conducting the most advanced depression research in the country. Over 350 million people annually struggle with depression globally, but despite its prevalence, depression is still misunderstood, underfunded and under-researched. The pandemic has only exacerbated the global mental health crisis. The mission of HDRF is to fund cutting-edge neuroscience research into the origins, medical diagnosis, new treatments, and prevention of depression and its related mood disorders, including bipolar depression, postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorder and suicide. To date, HDRF has provided more than $40 million through over 125 grants for accelerated breakthrough depression research that promises to lead to new and better medications and treatments. February 2022
117
Through the Lens
25A
ANNIE WATT
I am very excited to become a part of the Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach family. Photographing events and introducing my associate photographers to these opportunities is what I do. Monthly I will be sharing meaningful images of people experiencing what South Florida has to offer. I’m looking forward to my first time visit to Art Basel in Miami on December 2-4th. If you haven’t been, put it on your calendar. As a photographer and artist I’m excited to support fellow artists. In this my inaugural column I am introducing noted abstract expressionist J. Steven Manolis, founder of the Manolis Projects, which represents over 40 artists and provides private curation services, offering visitors an immersive behind-the-scenes view of a working studio and gallery. This year for Art Basel Miami, Manolis Projects is proud to present “Hunt Slonem: The Early Years, An Art Rich and Strange + Manolis Projects Artist Group Show.” Hunt Slonem is an American colorist and figurative painter, best known for his large Neo-Expressionist oil paintings of tropical birds, butterflies, and bunnies. Manolis Projects features a large collection of these rare early works, as well as his iconic salon-style Bunny Wall. Also featured is artist Ron Burkhardt, the founder of Notism, a genre he describes as exalting the power of private thoughts expressed in hand-written text – its style, texture, intensity, dynamism, aestheticism, and the primal exuberance of precious memory recall. His works are easily recognized by their striking colors, bold shapes, and meticulous attention to detail.
anniewatt.com
ROSE HARTMAN LE FEMME FATALE PHOTO EXHIBIT AT TW FINE ART GALLERY
Annie Watt, Frank D'Agostino
Mike De Paola, Sienna Berritto, Ty Cooperman
Regina Kavitz
Tom Shaffer, Ingela Carlssom
Frank D'Agostino, David Sweet, Rick Rose
Mike De Paola
Tom Shaffer, Ingela Carlssom, Sarah Gavlak, Maynard Monrow.
118
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Sarah Gavlak
Ron Burkhardt, Julie Hayek
RICK ROSE WORTH AVENUE WALKING TOUR
STEPHANIE'S BOUTIQUE GRAND OPENING
Stefanie Hill, Greg Mahon
Victoria Hum, Stefanie Hill, Betsy Boggs, Bibi
Sabrina Verlezza, Haim Hayon, Jules Aron, Don Perry
Jasmine Timan, Zack Mahon
Linda Parnett, Anthony LoCurto
Greg Mahon, Annie Watt
Zack Mahon, Reitman family, Greg Mahon
Tiffany Martin, Stefanie Hill, Lauren Joy
AUTHOR DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE RUBY FALLS LECTURE AND BOOK SIGNING
Deborah Royce, Sharon Bush
Pat Curtin, Pat Ruggieri, Ginny Cronin
Audience at the Four Arts
Deborah Royce, Walter Tomenson, Mary Ann Erlich
February 2022
Cheryl McKee
119
25A
Rowen Seibel
Beginnings of a Young Entrepreneur By Adam Kluger
A
t 18 years old, most teenagers are getting ready to go to college and begin their journey to find a career. Rowen Seibel on the other hand had already built two successful startups by the age of 18 and was developing his skills as a successful entrepreneur. Building a Successful Career in Business Seibel’s interest in business and entrepreneurship continued to grow as he got older. Today he focuses his career on financing, real estate, hospitality, project development, and building brands throughout the restaurant industry. He has continued to prove himself as a successful entrepreneur and businessman by taking on challenging and high-profile projects and business ventures. One of his many business interests is within the restaurant industry. He has made a name for himself in the restaurant world by opening and managing successful restaurants globally. Some of these projects have been with very famous establishments such as Serendipity, Old Homestead, Caesars Palace Las Vegas/ Atlantic City, Paris Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood Las Vegas. Whether a business has been around for a while and needs a revamp or is new and needs guidance, Seibel is able to get creative with exciting branding ideas. He has also had the pleasure of partnering with well-known celebrity chefs Gordon Ramsay and Masaharu Morimoto on successful branding projects. Seibel is a perfectionist and extremely detail-oriented in everything that he does. When commenting on his attention to detail, Seibel states, “It took Michelangelo 4 years to paint the Sistine Chapel. I’m more than willing to put in as much time or more to ensure we have the necessary focus and dedication for all of our projects.”
A Global Success Rowen Seibel doesn’t just succeed throughout the United States but across the globe! His skill has allowed him to develop brand’s internationally. Some exciting locations Seibel has worked in include The United Kingdom, Dubai and Tokyo. He is always open to projects in new locations which is a huge plus because he loves to travel! Effects of the Pandemic on Seibel’s Career Due to the pandemic, travel became obsolete and the restaurant business struggled. These are two of Seibel’s favorite things and integral components of his success in business. The restaurant industry had a rough time during the pandemic when more than 100,000 restaurants closed temporarily or permanently. This set back didn’t stop Seibel and his team from working throughout the restaurant industry. Seibel has continued to utilize his expertise and branding abilities to help restaurants build back their business and draw in new and old customers. What’s Next? Seibel is always ready for a challenge but one of the hardest and most important things for him is finding the right project to work on next! He prioritizes opportunities that he feels will make a positive impact on the community, the city and the world. Rowen has an eye for success and has the ability to pinpoint which venture would be best for him and his team to take on. We aren’t sure what his next venture will be but we know it will be just as exciting and impactful as his last projects! Visit Rowen Seibel on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn Pinterest!
120
Metropolitan Magazine Palm Beach | Metmagny.com
Photographs by Paul Prince
P
AN EVENING AT ESSEX WHERE COVER STARS COLLIDE by Adam Kluger
ublisher Chase Backer is no stranger to throwing memorable magazine parties. With Chase tied up in Palm Beach rubbing elbows with Sylvester Stallone, Margaret Bastick Luce, and suntanned polo fans, it was left up to me to organize a magazine party worthy of celebrating some of the superstars that we have featured on and in the magazines in 2021. Years ago I asked my old friend Bentley Meeker, New York's top staging and lighting expert, the secret to throwing a great party. I remembered that Bentley advised to never run out of ice and whenever possible throw your party at a cool location run by a cool owner. Check and check when it came to throwing our recent party at Essex. Amazing food, specialty drinks, and a super cool owner in David Perlman. The
RSVP list was overfilled with movers and shakers from top fragrance expert Sue Phillips to top throat doc Gwen Korovin. Acclaimed Israeli author Itamar SN (White Smoke), branding genius Rivka Tadjer, TikTok sensation Lorena Jusino, respected artists Reverend Jen Miller, Jonathan Feldschuh, Richard Alan model management, and networking wizards Carrie Rikon and Erin Davis, among other luminaries, sipped Cosmos and enjoyed live music from bandleader Nick Colt & Ms. Jane, Crista Giuliani and future megastar Vann Vega. The stars were also aligned for an impromptu photo shoot featuring three gorgeous, brilliant, and super-talented women who have all graced our magazine covers; Mie Iwatsuki, Shani Grosz, and Xen Sams. Epic. February 2022
121
ENJOY THE SAFETY AND CERTAINTY
OF A PURELY
PRIVATE EXPERIENCE
Challenger 300/350 Jet Card
Jet Card is part of the Jet Card Ownership portfolio at Magellan Jets. *Image credit: Bombardier Aerospace
PURELY PRIVATE EXPERIENCE Jet Card Ownership
Öäêèïïäñ ö íè÷¡öóèæìĤæ óõòêõäð æòðèö úì÷ë ä choice of one of 10 most popular aircraft on the market. With a convenience of booking your ĥìêë÷ö úì÷ë íøö÷ ( ëòøõö ñò÷ìæè ĥü ïìîè äñ òúñèõ without headaches of aircraft ownership.
Membership
Jet membership provides guaranteed access to òñè òé $ æä÷èêòõìèö òé äìõæõäé÷ Îñíòü æòñùèñìèñæè ĥèûìåìïì÷ü äñç ĥü äö ðøæë òõ äö ïì÷÷ïè äö üòø ñèèç with the freedom to schedule on just 12 hours’ notice.
+1 866-257-3488
www.MagellanJets.com
The Magellan Jets Memberships are programs of Magellan Jets, LLC (Magellan Jets®). Magellan Jets (the Air Charter Broker) acting as an “Authorized Agent” for the Member (Charterer) shall; maintain non-owned aircraft liability insurance, and personal injury coverage, contract for transportation services with only FAR Part 135 Direct Air Carriers proprietary Magellan Jets Preferred Network of Direct Air Carriers that meet all FAA or CAA safety standards and additional safety standards established by Magellan Jets.
25A
THE NEW ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, NJ 07675-1227 Tel: 1-877-877-3735 www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com © Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.