Vamp Luxury April 2015

VAMPMAGAZINE Luxury & Lifestyle Edition

> 01

At LOFT, we make bold statements. More than just an interiors outlet, we embody the process of smart, stylish and beautiful design from beginning to end. All of our brands and individual pieces have been handpicked to reflect our forward-looking ideology, and we work to achieve your personal vision. This villa in Mellieha is a project that we designed and implemented, and represents just a glimpse of the broad work we do.

loft.com.mt

Love Of Fine Things

Tel: 20 9999 66.

Triq San Pawl, Naxxar.

Monday to Friday. 9am – 7pm Saturday. 9am-4pm by appointment only after 4pm.

#DIESELHIGH

ST ANNE SQUARE, SLIEMA - MERCHANT STREET, VALLETA

SPRING-SUMMER 2015

schollfoothealthcentre.com THE POINT - TIGNE • THE PLAZA SHOPPING CENTRE - SLIEMA VALLETTA • MOSTA • FGURA • VICTORIA schollfoothealthcentre.com

[ LUXURY EDITION_01 ]

INSIDE#1 010. APRIL UPDATE

BRUNCH + WINE

Things that make you go ooh

A brunch for champions with Rocksalt and Philippe Martinet wines

012. PHAT STATS Amazing current stats at a glance

019. THIS SEASON’S LOOKS Wanderlust Luxurious (19), Bold & Geometric (20) Black Drama (29)

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022. HERE COMES THE SUN Spring / Summer fashion trends

031. BEAUTY & COSMETIC SURGERY GUIDE Vamp’s guide to looking healthier and younger

040. AN UNCONVENTIONAL SPIRIT A unique Mazda Italy/Japan collaboration, jointly hosted by Vogue Italia

015 ART GROSSING

This magazine is published by VAMP PUBLICATIONS Cover image from Mazda launch hosted by Vogue Italia

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WHAT HAPPENS IN LEOBO STAYS IN LEOBO

Christie’s recent Contemporary Art Sale in New York

A 20,000-acre private estate in the Waterberg Mountains, South Africa

045. NEGOTIATING SPACE Kurt Arrigo on the good, the bad and the unbelievable of working on film sets

050. THE ICONIC CAR FOR THE ICONIC Silver screen and silver spoon royalty’s love for Jaguar

053. BEHIND THE SCENES A behind the scenes look at this issue’s fashion shoot with Grey Goose Vodka

056. SCANDALOUS MUSES Some of the most notorious muses of the 20th century

068. THE HOUSE THAT LIVES WITHIN PARATY An architectural gem by renowned Architect Marcio Kogan near Rio de Janeiro

Editor: Kasey Detmar Art Director: Chris Psaila Stylist: Pavli Mededova Photographers: Tonio Lombardi, Johnn Tailerr, Federico Peltretti Director/Sales: Sam Psaila – 7788 0300 Printers: Print It

078. STARK BLOCKS A Nordic-inspired luxurious duplex penthouse by MJMDA

Contributors: Ben Martinet, Chris Attard, Federico Peltretti, Johnn Tailerr, Julian Cardona, Kurt Arrigo, Luke Engerer, Marcio Kogan, Matthew Mercieca, Michael Calleja, Pavli Medvedova, Steve De Domenico, Terri-ann Taliana, Tonio Lombardi, Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Dates, information and prices are believed to be correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor the publisher accept responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. While we endeavour to ensure that the organisations and firms mentioned are reputable. The editor can give no guarantee that they will fulfill their obligations under all circumstances.© Copyright 2015

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For more info, visit | www.vjsm.com.mt |

VJ Salomone Marketing | or call 8007 2387

EDITOR’S LETTER

Welcome to the first edition of Vamp Luxury & Lifestyle. he word “luxury” gets thrown around a lot. There is a misconception that luxury simply equals expense. It means a lot of different things to different people, but we’d like to think of it as something that brings comfort and elegance to our lives.

Enzo Ferrari himself saying that the Jaguar E-Type was “the most beautiful car ever made” is a perfect example.

I’m sure Ferrari knows his fair share about cars, but he simply appreciated the sheer quality, reliability, beauty and freedom the car expelled. This first Vamp Luxury Lifestyle edition embodies this faucet of luxury with pages filled with extraordinary art, gorgeous fashion, a higher level of health and beauty, exceptionally interesting (and scandalous) people, iconic cars, inspiring travel, remarkable architecture and truly excellent food and wine. I’m extremely fortunate to be making my Editor debut in this lush issue, which I hope will inspire you to invite a little more luxury into your lives.

Editor – Kasey Detmar

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[ A P R I L U P D AT E ]

THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO OOH > Vamp’s likes, loves and can’tlive-withouts

Fashion

SOPHISTICATED GLAMOUR MaxMara’s strength lies in sophisticated looks in great fabrics, and their Spring/Summer Collection this year is no different.

This season offers a seventies glamour point of focus with gorgeous dresses in simple, yet bold colours and patterns.

Max Mara, Tower Road, Sliema

Skin Care

SHOCK IT Somatoline Intensive Night Slimming Treatment is a shock treatment for women with localised fat in the hips and thighs.

It has been proven to slim the silhouette by 2.25 cm, and leaves the skin soft and smooth, to boot.

Available in leading pharmacies and beauty shops

Beauty

VALENTINA PINK The duo of perfumers Daphné Bugey and Fabrice Pellegrin have signed this monochrome edition for Valentino Parfums. It’s a rose-fuzz creation, drawn out by the airy freshness of peony, punctuated by the sparkling, floral nuances of delicious strawberry and the musky unexpected tonality of blackberry.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd 2133 1553

Hair

JUST DON’T DEAL Don’t deal with faded hair colour this summer. Thanks to the experts at Wella, Koleston has just introduced a unique waterproof colour technology that works in two ways to optimise colour richness.

Apart from penetrating colour deep inside hair fibres, making it less vulnerable to fading and washout, it also draws inspiration from the natural structure of the hair. Observing the f-layer – the hair’s natural conditioner, Koleston has been able to develop a way to mimic the wax-like form which ‘waterproofs’ uncoloured hair, to ensure protection and colour conservation on treated hair.

VJ Salomone Marketing T: 8007 2387

Fashion

GARBO NOW OPEN Designed to recreate that unique Italian sense of style and elegance, Garbo is the latest fashion store to open at The Point Shopping Mall in Tigne. Representing renowned Italian brand names like Henry Cotton’s, Cerruti 18CRR81 and Marina Yachting, Garbo is aimed at those looking for a combination of Italian flair, urban style and excellent craftsmanship, coupled with the traditionally excellent British tailoring so typically found in Henry Cotton’s clothes.

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592.2K DEATHS CAUSED BY ALCOHOL IN 2015

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE DEATHS: 3,074,032 DEATHS OF CHILDREN UNDER 5: 1,799,907 ABORTIONS THIS YEAR: 9,948,032 DEATHS OF MOTHERS DURING BIRTH: 81,407 SUICIDES: 253,929 ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT FATALITIES: 319,651

2.4

ARE ARE BEING CUT DOWN MAINLY DUE TO LOGGING, MINING OIL AND GAS EXTRACTION & AGRICULTURE

HIGHEST RANK LOWEST RANK

HAPPY WORLD INDEX The new HPI results show the extent to which 151 countries across the globe produce long, happy and sustainable lives for the inhabitants.

The overall index scores rank countries based on their efficiency and how many long and happy lives each produces per unit of environmental output.

TOXIC CHEMICALS RELEASED IN THE ENVIRONMENT SO FAR IN 2015 15% or 1 in 7 teens, report using marijuana in the past month in the US.

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Each and every second, 310Kg of toxic chemicals are released into our air, land, and water by industrial facilities around the world. This amounts to approximately 10 million tons (over 21 billion pounds) of toxic chemicals released into our environment by industries each year. Of these, over 2 million tons (over 4.5 billion pounds) per year are recognised carcinogens. This amounts to about 65Kg each second.

Stats were correct at time of publication print

Worldwide obesity has more than doubled since 1980. In 2014, more than 1.9 billion adults, 18 years and older, were overweight. Of these over 600 million were obese. 39% of adults aged 18 years and over were overweight in 2014, and 13% were obese. 42 million children under the age of 5 were overweight or obese in 2013.

ACRES PER SECOND

1.6M+ OVERWEIGHT PEOPLE IN THE WORLD

1.6M

[ PHAT STATS ]

FEEL GOOD IN YOUR OWN SKINNYS.

SEE HOW KILO KISH LIVE IN LEVI’S®.

LEVI.COM/LIVEINLEVIS MERCHANT STREET, VALLETTA - ST ANNE SQUARE, SLIEMA

SKINNY JEANS WORN BY KILO KISH

Jeep® with

51°04’31” N 115°04’09” W

Mammatus Clouds Alberta - Canada

Wonder is out there | The Jeep® Range

Jeep® Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Wrangler and the all new Renegade. Come to visit us.

Showroom: Valley Road, Msida. E: jeep@ucim.com.mt, W: jeep-malta.com, F: Jeep - Malta - U.C.I.M. Co. Ltd. T: 2382 3500 Servicing and Spare Parts: Waldorf Auto Service Centre, Valley Road, Msida.

Jeep® range is exclusively imported by UCIM Co Ltd. Jeep® is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.

[ A R T U P D AT E ]

[ ART GROSSING RECORDS ] Christie’s recent Contemporary Art Sale in New York brought in the highest-ever total for an auction, grossing €783.16 million across 75 lots. This figure beat the sale’s intimidating estimate of €578.5 million, and more than doubled the €315.6 million that its rival, Sotheby’s brought in at its recent contemporary art auction.

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1. CY TWOMBLY, UNTITLED WORK (1970) €63.9M. OIL BASED HOUSE PAINT AND WAX CRAYON ON CANVAS. 2. ANDY WARHOL, TRIPLE ELVIS [FERUS TYPE] (1960) €75.2M. SILKSCREEN INK AND SILVER PAINT ON LINEN. 3. PETER DOIG, PINE HOUSE (ROOMS FOR RENT) €16.62M. OIL ON CANVAS. 4. ANDY WARHOL, FOUR MARLONS (1966) €63.9M. SILKSCREEN INK ON UNPRIMED LINEN. 5. ED RUSCHA, SMASH (1963) €27.91M. OIL ON CANVAS. 6. SETH PRICE, VINTAGE BOMBER (2006) €661,872. VACUUM FORMED HIGH-IMPACT POLYSTYRENE. L U X U R Y I S S U E 017

SLIEMA 46-48 Tower Road Tel. 21 341 961

[ VANITY ]

FASHION BEAUTY

Monsoon, Bisazza Street, Sliema

Wo m e n a n d t h e i r h o r s e s , t h e f o u n t a i n o f y o u t h , a n d h o w t o fight the good fight. >>

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[ S/S TRENDS 2015 ]

WANDERLUST LUXURIOUS

The traveller in relaxed elegance: pastel colourful, exotic, breezy and billowy.

Daria Brown hobo bag from Cocinelle (€280), Monsoon Charlotte bag (€49.90), Monsoon linen dress (€90), Monsoon Ibiza wave print Kaftan (€49), Hippy Bracelet from Accessorize (€19.90), Liebeskind Mika bag (€179.90), Michael Kors watch from VIP and Sunlab (€229), Michael Kors watch with stones from VIP and Sunlab (€279), Gucci Sunglasses from Solaris (€245), Monsoon Nevada Statement Festival backpack (€55), Cocinelle Green Daria Suede bag (€270) L U X U R Y I S S U E 021

[ S/S TRENDS 2015 ]

BOLD & GEOMETRIC

Sharp geometric inspired patterns with nautical undertones.

Cocinelle Multicolour Becky bag (€200), Tag Heuer Carrera automatic from VIP, Fred Perry Drakes belted pique dress (€94), Michael Kors watches from VIP and Sunlab (€229 each), Fred Perry Drakes Bandana print shirt (€77), Marc By Marc Jacobs sunglasses from Solaris (€145), Fendi sunglasses from Solaris (€215), Fred Perry Phoenix leather platform sneakers (€78)

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S/S FASHION

Makeup: Chris Attard, FRANKS using Guerlain products Hair: Terri-Ann Taliana, Dean Gera, using Dean Gera hair care Styling: Pavli Medvedova Models: Romana Sramkova and Violeta VR Sponsored by FRANKS using Guerlain

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S/S FASHION

Max Mara dress (€165), Solaris Marc by Marc Jacobs sunglasses (€145), Michael Kors silver ring (€79), Michael Kors earrings (€89), Michael Kors silver bracelet (€99)

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Max Mara skirt (€135), Max Mara belt (€135), Fred Perry polo (€57), Cocinelle Fresh top handle leather bag (€240), Michael Kors gold earrings (€139), Michael Kors gold bracelet (€229), Dior sunglasses from Solaris (€375)

Monsoon knitted dress (€90), Maison Scotch bomber jacket (€119.95), Prada sunglasses from Solaris (€429), Tag Heuer watch, Michael Kors silver necklace (€99), Michael Kors silver ring (€79), Michael Kors earrings (€89)

S/S FASHION

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Monsoon skirt (€70), Monsoon blouse (€75), Tag Heuer watch, Michael Kors gold earrings (€139), Michael Kors gold bracelet (€229), Michael Kors gold ring (€129), Rayban sunglasses from Sunlab (€200)

S/S FASHION

Max Mara dress (€165), Diesel jacket (€216), Solaris Marc

by Marc Jacobs sunglasses (€145), Cocinelle Oslo top handle three-coloured leather bag (€295), Michael Kors silver necklace (€99), Michael Kors earrings (€89), Michael Kors silver bracelet (€99)

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Clarins New Shaping Facial Lift contains a blend of powerful plant extracts with breakthrough “Total V Contouring Power” technology Uplift that helps redefine the perfectbeauty 3V contour: slimmer your face, refined and lifted with thecheeks perfect jawline.

3V contour.

Slimmer face, refined cheeks and*:lifted jawline.

In just 4 weeks

% 89 Thinner facial contours.

NEW % 87 Firmer, lifted facial contours.

Shaping Facial Lift Total V contouring serum

Official online store: Facial Lift Clarins New Shaping contains a blend of powerful www.clarins.com plant extracts with breakthrough “Total V Contouring Power” technology that helps redefine the perfect 3V contour: slimmer face, refined cheeks and lifted jawline.

In just 4 weeks*: 89% Thinner facial contours.

87% Firmer, lifted facial contours.

Official online store: www.clarins.com

*Percentage of women agreeing with the following

benefits, consumer test 79 women.

*Percentage of women agreeing with the following

benefits, consumer test 79 women.

[ S/S TRENDS 2015 ]

BLACK DRAMA

Black materials and sharp lines evoke sophistication and drama.

Diesel Adryannah bag (€327), Diesel Splish studded sandals (€44), Diesel Selen dress (€108), Diesel Denimise Claudia shades (€169), Fred Perry Trapeze tote (€77), Cocinelle Becky Black medium (€250)

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BEAUTY + SKIN CARE

THE BEAUTY & cosmetic surgery guide VA M P ’ S G U I D E T O LOOKING HEALTHIER AND YOUNGER. W H AT E L S E I S THERE? L U X U R Y I S S U E 033

BEAUTY + SKIN CARE

> SMART SKIN CLNIC

> TRANSFORMA

Mesotherapy Treatment at The Smart Skin Clinic

Vitiligo Treatment at Transforma

Mesotherapy is a non-surgical, minimally invasive cosmetic medicine treatment, which includes multiple injections of pharmaceutical and homeopathic medications, plant extracts, vitamins, and other ingredients into subcutaneous fat.

Transforma has just introduced a new treatment for vitiligo, being carried out by their Cosmetic Physician. Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes colour (pigment) loss, producing light or white patches on the skin. The affected area is left looking blotchy and can affect the skin on any part of the body.

As a result, the skin is hydrated and bio-revitalised. With the use of tiny injections all over the cheeks, neck and decollete (even hands) a thin sheet of water is inserted under the skin. The product which is injected is hylauronic acid, which is used in other fillers as well. Due to the light texture, however, it can be injected superficially under the skin. It does not increase volume, but rather only plumps up naturally.

Ideal for clients with thin skin, Mesotherapy can also help eliminate cellulite, promote weight loss, provide anti-ageing benefits, and eliminate localised fat deposits.

Performed By: Trained medical professional Results: Vary depending on body type and the condition being treated. On average, patients notice visible improvement in two to three sessions. For certain conditions, patients see results after the first session.

The Smart Skin Clinic also offers a variety of other treatments, such as Botox®, chemical peels, dermal fillers, laser hair removal, lip augmentation, micro-needle rollers, semi-permanent makeup, silhouette soft thread lifting, skin care advice, smart dieting and weight management, sublative skin resurfacing, sublime skin tightening, TCA medium depth peels, and vein treatment.

The Smart Skin Clinic 63, Tigne Street, Sliema, SLM 3172 63, Bronja Street, Zurrieq, ZRQ 2017 T: 2010 6066 | 9990 6066 E: info@thesmartskinclinic.com W: www.thesmartskinclinic.com

034 L U X U R Y I S S U E

Usually, the discolouration first shows on sun-exposed areas, such as the hands, feet, arms, face and lips. Vitiligo can begin at any age, but most often appears before aged 20. The condition is not a painful one, which means that it can take a while to realise that it’s there.

Transforma’s new equipment is used to treat vitiligo. It’s attached to a patient’s inner thigh and the skin is harvested in order to be used on the body part where the discolouration will be corrected.

This process takes around 30 minutes.

Once the harvesting is done, the tiny skin domes extracted are attached to a special elastoplast and transferred to the area where vitiligo is present.

Performed By: Cosmetic Physician Results: Patients are followed up prior to treatment and results of visible pigment can usually be seen after a few weeks/months depending on the patient’s initial condition.

Transforma also offers a variety beauty and cosmetic services, as well as hypnotherapy.

Transforma - The Cosmetic Clinic 123, Triq il-Hafur, Attard, ATD 3014 T: 2142 3838 E: info@transforma.com.mt W: www.transforma.com.mt FB: Transforma Cosmetic Clinic

BEAUTY + SKIN CARE

> PERSONA

Cellulite Reduction & Liquid Facelifts at Persona Cellulite Reduction Med-Aesthetic Clinic& Liquid Facelifts at Persona Med-Aesthetic Clinic Persona General Manager Kate Demanuele says, ‘Although there have been and still are some misconceptions about the notion of Liquid Facelifts around, Botox or Hyaluronic Acid fillers are a great option for achieving a younger and more refreshed look. Botox will safely smoothen out worry or frown lines induced by stress or too much worry, or simply because some of us express their emotions using more facial muscles than others, while Hyluronic Acid fillers, will correct (fill in) mainly lines around the mouth. Those who smile a lot or have spent a lot of time in the sun would have formed fine lines around the eye area, and we know that even the best eye creams have their limitations in erasing those lines. Very few know that just two small pricks of Botox injections on each side of the eyes will smoothen out those lines almost instantly.

‘Restylane fillers are Hyaluronic based fillers which last around nine months and deliver safe and natural looking results. Their Refresh range called Restylane Vital serves as a great deep hydration boost to areas most exposed to sun and rough weather conditions, and that suffer most from dryness - face, neck, hands and décolletage.

For these areas, tiny injections with Hyaluronic Acid gel are applied, making the skin visibly smoother and improving the overall skin texture.

‘The Restylane Hyaluronic Acid fillers are also a great option for those who wish to enhance the shape or their lips (be it contouring or restoring lost volume) or cheeks in the most natural looking way.

‘At times, a combination of products (Botox and fillers) are used during the same treatment to address various needs. With all the above options, very often just one visit with one of Persona’s experienced and internationally trained Plastic Surgeons is all that is needed to feel fully refreshed.’

Photomology technique combining non-invasive laser and light-powered technology, together with massaging and suction.

Photomology gently stimulates metabolic processes to minimise the underlying causes of cellulite (such as chronic inflammation, impaired blood circulation and decreased cell metabolism) to restore the tissue to a better state.

Photomology utilises specifically developed and FDA approved laser and light waves to address the physical manifestation of cellulite: brittle fibrous septae and enlarged fat cells. The result: collagen is remodelled so that skin is visibly smoother and tighter, while fat cells are restored. The SmoothShapes course is a relaxing treatment and consists of eight sessions spaced two or three times per week. The results are long lasting, and usually clients visit Persona for another course thereafter once a year.

Persona also offers a wide variety of other non-invasive treatments, dermatology services, plastic surgery, as well as health and beauty services.

Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre 42, Marina Court, Sir Ugo Mifsud Street, Ta’ Xbiex.

T: 21 340 366 | 79 340 366 / info@persona.com.mt W: www.persona.com.mt FB: Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre

While Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre offers a wide range of services to meet all aesthetic needs, they offer a great solution for addressing cellulite, which is called SmoothShapes. This revolutionary FDA approved and highly effective treatment involves the pioneering

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IN 8 DAYS, A SPECTACULAR REPAIR OF SKIN QUALITY*.

IDEALIA LIFE SERUM [LR2412 2% + LHA] SENSITIVE SKIN

PARABEN FREE

VICHY THERMAL SPA WATER

BEAUTY + SKIN CARE

[ THE GOOD FIGHT ]

Captivate with a youthful-looking and clear complexion. No one can do it alone. VAMP brings you the latest skincare heavyweights to add to your armoury.

HERE COMES THE SUN

STUFF THE STRESS

SkinCeuticals Mineral Radiance from PERSONA. Great for: UV protection with its breakthrough mineral sunscreen formulation by combining 100% Mineral Broad Spectrum UV protection (no chemical filters) and universal radiance.

This lightweight, ultra-sheer formula is infused with translucent colour spheres that adapt to every skin tone and have an added tint that makes it a great base for make-up.

Guerlain Blanc De Perle Whitening Night Cream from X-TREME CO. Great for: combatting the oxidating stresses of the night which trigger melanin production through Melanin Control Technology, combined for the first time with a biological plant-based antioxidant.

Sisley Intensive Dark Spot Corrector from FRANKS. Great for: treating dark spots, regardless of their size and intensity, irrespective of age and skin tone. After four weeks, dark spots due to ageing, sun and skin imperfections are lightened.

Guerlain Blanc De Perle UV Shield from X-TREME CO. Great for: strengthening the skin’s natural defences against the harmful effects of UV rays through advanced Skin Shield Technology. Intensely protected layer after layer, the skin is bright and luminous in all situations.

AOX Eye Gel from PERSONA Great for: helping protect the delicate eye area from oxidative stress, while targeted active molecules revive under-eye skin and reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, preventing signs of ageing, and correcting signs of photodamage.

Clarins Men Revitalising Gel from CLARINS BEAUTY CENTRE. Great for: Revitalising, refreshing and de-stressesing with its lightweight, anti-fatigue characteristics. It helps minimise the look of new wrinkles, while energising and toning the skin with the perfect amount of moisture.

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BEAUTY + SKIN CARE

THE AGE FIGHT Bring in the big guns for the ultimate age battle.

Yves Saint Laurent Forever Youth Liberator range from CHEMIMART. Great for: refreshing the skin to feel suppler and more comfortable, while the complexion looks fresher and feels softer. The satin-like texture contains Glycanactif™, which is a patented combination of three glycans, to help increase youthful activity in skin cells.

Liftactiv Supreme by VICHY LABORATORIES. Great for: correcting ageing signs on the skin hour after hour, day after day. It contains Rhamnose 5% and Neohesperidin combined with exclusive Vichy Day-Proof technology and is available in two textures for normal-tocombination skin and dry skin.

Creme Solaire Anti-Age SPF 50 from CHEMIMART. Great for: protecting the face from UV rays to prevent the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots to harmful sun rays. This innovative antiageing face sunscreen offers a patented photostable filtering system with MEXORYL SX & XL for a broad-spectrum high protection against UVA and UVB, and formulated with anti oxidant Vitamin E. Clarins Men Anti-fatigue Eye Serum from CLARINS Beauty Centre.

Great for: tackling the most vulnerable age zone. The invigorating serum energises tired-looking eyes, deflates puffs, reduces dark circles, smoothes early wrinkles and tightens eye contours.

Lancôme Visionnaire Advanced Skin Corrector from CHEMIMART. Great for: reducing wrinkles and pores so that they look corrected, and skin texture is smoothed. Containing a molecule (LR 2412) designed to penetrate all the layers of the skin’s epidermis, the second generation formula helps perfect the look of skin every day.

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BEAUTY + SKIN CARE

Guerlain Météorites Baby Glow from X-TREME CO. Great for: erasing signs of fatigue and revealing the youthful and natural glow of the complexion through a unique alchemy that combines technology with a touch of magic. With this hydrating burst of freshness, the skin relaxes and appears refreshed, invigorated, plump and radiant.

Guerlain Orchidée Impériale – The Gel Cream from X-TREME CO. Great for: a beautiful skin effect through the energy of Gold Orchid Technology, which corrects the signs of skin ageing. The light texture becomes one with the skin, for a feeling of pure pleasure with an instant effect.

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF from PERSONA MED-AESTHETIC. Great for: vitamin C, antiageing and antioxidant benefits that neutralise free radicals before they can damage and weaken the skin cell structure. It contains the two more powerful antioxidants - 2% phloretin and 0.5% ferulic acid - that help prevent fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots from forming.

Idealia Life Serum

by VICHY. Great for: effectively restoring the skin complexion, tone and balance for women whose skin quality has been impacted by behavioural ageing; over-worked skin, sun-over exposed skin, an unbalanced diet, and exposed to pollution. A combination of the antiageing active ingredients LR2412 and LHA correct skin quality from the surface down to the deeper layers.

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BEAUTY + SKIN CARE

[ HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE ] Hydration helps to protect our skin from UV radiation, microorganisms and toxic agents.

04: Clarins Body Shaping Cream from Clarins Beauty Centre.

Great for: firming and hydrating. When gently massaged into the skin, the rich creamy texture leaves a soft, smooth, supple result.

Clarins Total V Contouring Serum from Clarins Beauty Centre.

Lancôme Rénergie French Lift™ from Chemimart.

Great for: re-tightening facial zones so that the cheekbones appear lifted, the forehead is smoothed and the jaw-line and neck look refined.

Inspired by the precise French lifting techniques, this is a tightening night-time moisturiser enriched with the Resveroside™ complex, paired with an innovative massage disk.

Lancaster Skin Therapy Perfecting Texturising Moisturiser from X-TREME CO. Great for: creating a fresh and naturally radiant complexion by gently moisturising the skin with a lusciously textured cream with specifically selected pigments that creates perfect hydration. Takes a healthy glow to a new level.

Great for: contouring the natural roundness of the face, to relieve additional heaviness and puffiness caused by diets rich in fat, salt and sugar. Newlyformulated contouring cream also refines facial contours, defines cheekbones and visibly lifts the jawline.

DIRECTORY: Chemimart: T: 2149 2212, X-Treme Co Ltd / Franks: T: 2388 2300, Persona: T: 2134 0366, Vichy: T: 7980 6836 Clarins available from all leading pharmacies and perfumeries 040 L U X U R Y I S S U E

[ L I F E S T Y L E + C U LT U R E ]

PEOPLE LIFE

K u r t A r r i g o a n d T h e D o v e k e e p e r s , M a z d a a n d Vo g u e , s c a n d a l o u s 2 0 t h c e n t u r y m u s e s a n d t h e i c o n c a r fo r t h e i c o n i c > >

L U X U R Y I S S U E 041

CARS

from cars to clothes:

THE MAZDA STORY: AN UNCONVENTIONAL SPIRIT Vamp contributor Luke Engerer visits ‘Fashion and Design: A unique Italy/Japan collaboration in support of talented designers’, jointly hosted by Vogue Italia

Carrying on its custom of horizon-expanding initiatives, Mazda was the main sponsor of the Brera Design District Fuorisalone 2015 during Milan Design Week. The Japanese carmaker actively took part with an exhibition in Mazda Design Space, a special new venue that opened earlier this year in Milan’s artistically inclined Brera quarter.

“As a company that places a huge priority on creativity and design quality, we like to go outside the box for inspiration. These activities in Milan are an excellent opportunity to learn from different fields of design,” said Mazda Motor Europe’s Vice President Communications Wojciech Halarewicz. “From furniture to fashion and more, Milan is a world design capital. There is no better place to explore creativity and apply our KODO design theme to other disciplines.”

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First introduced on a production model in 2012 with the Mazda CX-5, KODO – Soul of Motion is the basis for Mazda’s awardwinning vehicle designs. Mazda’s first KODO venture outside the realm of automobile design was unveiled at Milan Design Week in 2013: The unique KODO Chair, like Mazda’s cars, expresses motion as well as precision. It returned to Milan this year, joined at Mazda Design Space by several other KODO-inspired design pieces.

Mazda Design Space was conceived to celebrate those who challenge design convention in the name of innovation and beauty. The inaugural event at the facility took place on Friday during Milan Fashion Week.

Entitled “Fashion And Design:

A Unique Italy/Japan Collaboration In Support Of Talented Designers” and jointly hosted by Vogue Italia, it featured young designers from “COMEFORBREAKFAST” and Yasutoshi Ezumi, two emerging fashion labels.

They presented their own interpretations of KODO in the form of two inventive outfits exhibited alongside the all-new Mazda MX-5, perhaps the most daring automotive adaptation of KODO to date. Those attending included prominent fashion industry personalities such as Vogue Italy editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani, Cuban model and actress Mariela Garriga, and Chinese artist Yi Zhou.

KODO Chair Milan Design Week in 2013

CARS

“AS A COMPANY THAT PLACES A HUGE PRIORITY ON CREATIVITY AND DESIGN QUALITY, WE LIKE TO GO OUTSIDE THE BOX FOR INSPIRATION. THESE ACTIVITIES IN MILAN ARE AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN FROM DIFFERENT FIELDS OF DESIGN.”

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THE PLAYGROUND

CHIVAS CHIC

Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky, introduces Chivas Regal Extra — its first new global expression since 2007. Complementing its collection of premium blended Scotch whiskies, Chivas Regal Extra is one of the richest, most generous tasting blends within this category, crafted for those who look for more.

Photography: Michael Calleja - Studio Konnect

Chivas Regal Extra was just recently launched at Electro Lobster Project in Balluta. The evening, organised by Farsons Beverage Imports Company was a great success with guests including members of the trade and the Bartenders Guild. To mark the special occasion, Chivas cocktails were served throughout the night and included the signature ‘Chivas Claw’ which was created especially for the event. Food items, catered by Electro Lobster Project, were carefully selected to accompany the Chivas Regal Extra cocktails: the “Chivas Claw”, the “Hoots Mon Spritz”, the “Chancellor”, and the “Next Level”.

Jean Paul Attard & Claudia Attard

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Chris Brincat, Raisa Brincat, Shana Balzan & Kenny Roberts

THE PLAYGROUND

Eman Xuereb and friend

Ariadne Massa and Herman Grech

The Chivas Girls

Pierre Stafrace, Claudia Attard, & Joita Coleiro

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ChivasL URegal 046 X U R Y Extra I S S U Eis marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Co. Ltd. Trade Enquiry 2381 4400.

INTERVIEW

N E G O T I A T I N G S P A C E Maltese and international photographer Kurt Arrigo talks to VAMP about the good, the bad and the unbelievable of working on film sets.

Photography: Kurt Arrigo

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INTERVIEW How did you first get involved in photographing for film?

During the three-month production of Helen of Troy in Malta, I was fortunate enough to be approached by the film’s producers and Art Director, who were looking for a local still photographer to capture some shots. Following that, I worked on a couple of spin-offs for National Geographic and Discovery Channel covering a war-related documentary series, and it took off from there.

What is working on a film set like?

Collaboration is crucial when working on a movie. The crew are under an enormous amount of pressure, working to incredibly tight deadlines. For instance, when I was working on The Dovekeepers, I was obliged to send images and information to the marketing and PR company in New York on a daily basis. Suffice to say, it was challenging at times – that balance between creativity and ‘the job’. We had magazine guidelines to follow, especially when dealing with eminent actors who needed to be portrayed in a certain light. The experience as a whole was extremely rewarding, especially being on set and working amongst such a large and talented production team.

Is there any creative freedom?

Absolutely. It’s an excellent way to connect with the actors and their acting, which I think is key to being a good still photographer. It’s also largely about being in the right place at the right time, and capturing that perfect unusual and unexpected moment. That’s when the other departments become excited about your work, which is the most fulfilling part of the job.

So there’s luck involved?

Communication and understanding someone’s vision is the biggest part of it all, and how it’s executed. In the film industry, luck only comes in when you bump into the right person who helps you move on with your career.

A still image needs to capture something – a character or a seamless image for posters with a backdrop, which is the other part of my job – post-production.

Is all of it as exciting and fun as people imagine?

A film production involves long hours and a lot of hanging around. On the flip side, it’s undeniably a lot of fun working with artists. A film’s environment is inspiring and motivating.

The most stressful part is the lack of control you have when you’re trying to do your job.

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INTERVIEW

“I’VE ALWAYS BEEN DRAWN TO A BIT OF ACTION AND WHEN YOU SEE THIS KIND OF SCENE, WITH THE COSTUMES AND MAKE-UP… THIS IS WHEN YOU FIND A WAY TO FIT IN AND NEGOTIATE YOUR SPACE.” Photographers rarely have the set to themselves, and when they do it’s for a very short time, so they have to be fast, both physically and visually.

They have to work with what’s being thrown at them and be able to improvise and tackle problems with quick thinking and creativity.

Very often, you want to snap a fantastic scene but there are cameras in the way or there’s a tight schedule in place. These are the most frustrating moments, but I think a large part of being good at it is to find a way to work around these types of challenges.

One of things that I love about film is how I feel transported to another dimension when the set is strongly lit with powerful actors. I love catching strong moments, and on The Dovekeepers there was a lot of action, beautiful lighting and portraiture, which is my ideal type of shoot. I’ve always been drawn to a bit of action and when you see this kind of scene, with the costumes and make-up… this is when you find a way to fit in and negotiate your space. There are certain no-go areas, such as the Producer and Director’s areas, but usually I’m granted some time to get my shots, depending on whether they decide to reshoot certain scenes.

Tell us more about The Dovekeepers.

The Dovekeepers is a TV series produced by Mark Burnett and his wife Roma Downey.

He was one of the first guys to start reality TV (shows) back in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s (Survivor,The Voice, Apprentice, to name a few) – he’s a highly respected producer and his wife recently bought the rights to the movie and the book, and is now producing a four-episode TV mini-series, which was mostly filmed in Malta.

The series is based on Alice Hoffman’s novel about four women whose lives intersect in a fight for survival at the siege of Masada in Ancient Israel. The Chilean actress Cote de Pablo, Player Diego Boneta and American actress Rachel Brosnahan have leading roles.

Do you use any specialised equipment?

I use a blimp, which is a soundproof camera.

Silence is required during filming, so you can’t make any noise clicking away. With a blimp I’m able to shoot quietly.

Are there any directors or stars in particular that you would like to work with?

Not really. I’m more drawn to people who are passionate about their work and perform well as a team. It’s humbling when you meet someone so experienced at what they do and still appreciate what you do. Mark Burnett is one of the most influential producers in America, and yet, when he saw my stills he was extremely encouraging. It’s amazing to have people like him allow me creative licence. These are the people you want to work with – people that value expertise and offer motivation.

I have worked with some well-known actors in the past, but sometimes when they’re a bit too big everyone is cautious. There’s a lot of hierarchy in this business. Sometimes it’s to the extent that people on the set aren’t even allowed to look at the actors – though obviously in my case this would prove impossible.

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INTERVIEW

“ONE OF THINGS I LOVE ABOUT FILM IS HOW I FEEL TRANSPORTED TO ANOTHER DIMENSION WHEN THE SET IS STRONGLY LIT WITH POWERFUL ACTORS. I LOVE CATCHING STRONG MOMENTS, AND ON ‘THE DOVEKEEPERS’ THERE WAS A LOT OF ACTION, BEAUTIFUL LIGHTING AND PORTRAITURE, WHICH IS MY IDEAL TYPE OF SHOOT.” Do you hang out with the film directors and actors on the movies you have worked on?

Yes, there’s the opportunity, but in my case it depends on how hard the day has been and how late I finish.

You always get invited for drinks after a day’s work, but personally I enjoy my free time and switching off.

Having said that, it’s refreshing from time to time to get away from the work environment and to get to know the crew and cast better.

What advice would you give to a budding photographer?

Don’t do it for the money.

Why do you say that?

People often start out with high expectations, thinking they can make a career out of it. It’s possible, but you also need to find a way to enjoy it. Working on The Dovekeepers was more about the experience than the money. Receiving great feedback on your work is more fulfilling than the financial side. I think that when you prioritise money on a job, your inspiration and expectations automatically lessen.

How do you choose the right jobs?

At this stage, I instinctively know that I’m going to enjoy certain jobs. If I don’t think I’ll enjoy it then I don’t do it. I didn’t always feel like this, but it comes with experience.You need to connect with who you work with.You also need to do some soul searching and find out what you enjoy and who you can connect with. I think this should be the ultimate goal.

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CARS

[ THE ICONIC CAR ]

for the iconic Jaguar is no stranger to making class-leading automobiles and has always been at the pinnacle of the automotive industry with luxury, style, and performance all around the world.

The British brand has continued to make silver screen and silver spoon royalty look good from the beginning. VAMP brings you six of the coolest Jag owners of all time.

Words: Kasey Detmar

STEVE MCQUEEN

CLINT EASTWOOD

GEORGE HARRISON

Possibly one of the coolest cars of all time, Steve McQueen bought the 1956 Jaguar XKSS twice, and had his license suspended for driving it twice.

Essentially the model was a roadgoing version of the D-Type racer, and only 16 were built. McQueen and a subsequent owner drove this one around Los Angeles for years, and now it’s reportedly worth over €23.5 million.

One of Clint Eastwood’s most iconic photographs is with his 1958 Jaguar XK-150, which was loved by Hollywood celebrities of the time.

The model was a sports car produced between 1957 and 1961, which replaced the XK140. It was fast too: with a top speed of 212 km/h, it could accelerate from 97 km/h in 7.8 seconds.

It’s said that George Harrison coveted his new sleekly and curvaceously designed 1964 Jaguar Series E Type.

Much to his dismay then, when on his way to a concert at the Hippodrome in Brighton, he had a minor road accident on the New Kings Road in Fulham. Passing pedestrians collected pieces of broken glass as souvenirs.

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CARS First known as SS Cars Ltd, the first SS100 was capable of pushing the car over 100 mph, hence the “100” in the name. It set the tone for all iconic Jaguar roadsters to come.

Following the success of their SS models, Jaguar introduced the XK nameplate with the XK120 roadster and coupe. The XK120 became the chariot of choice for the rich and famous with its classic curves, brash chrome trim, and powerful 3.4-litre inline-6. At its launch in 1948, the XK120 was the world’s fastest production car. Jaguar improved the horsepower on the XK for over ten years, with the XK140 and XK150.

Although renowned for their gorgeous sports cars, Jaguar also developed some of the most iconic sedans during the post-war era. So much so that Jaguar’s head designer spent two years having his own custom version made to just the right specifications.

the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1951 and 1953.

Later, the unforgettable D-Type sported an impressive streamlined body, an outlandish offset fin, and a powerful 3.4 litre (later 3.8) inline-6. The D-Type won Le Mans three times from 1955-1957, including placing in five of the top six spots in 1957. The D-Type became so popular that the road-legal version XKSS was developed for the public, and climbed even further iconic status when king of cool actor Steve McQueen acquired one.

The 1961 E-Type was probably the most notorious model for Jaguar. Enzo Ferrari said that the E-Type was “the most beautiful car ever made” and “the greatest crumpetcatcher known to man”. Within days of its release, it became the must-have item of the silver screen set with icons such as Brigitte Bardot, Tony Curtis, and George Harrison quickly purchasing the super sexy car. 70,000 E-Types were sold throughout its fourteen-year production run.

of a prototype Le Mans car for the ultimate combination of speed and balance. The XJ13 never raced, but it did set the stage for the Jaguar supercars of the early 90s, beginning with the XJR-15. Based mechanically on the Le Mans-winning XJR-9, the XJR-15 was a road-legal race car with a 6.0 litre V-12 making 450 hp. The only 50 made were sold out completely. Following the success of this, Jaguar began development of the XJ220. Despite the downgrade in engine size, the XJ220 was the fastest production car in the world at the time, with a top speed of 213 mph in 1992.

Now, Jaguar has developed the highly anticipated F-Type. With the addition of a fixed roof to the original roadster, the car has 542 hp from the 5.0 litre supercharged V-8. It has been said that the F-Type is a true modern classic British sports car, and a fitting successor to the legendary E-Type. How do we know it’s a big deal? When Simon Cowell, Miranda Kerr, Jodie Kidd and Kelly Osbourne go to the LA auto show to see its debut.

In the 1950’s Jaguar was extremely successful at turning their attention to endurance racing.

The aerodynamic C-Type Jaguar won twice at

In 1966 Jaguar made one XJ13 car, which had a 5.0 litre DOHC V-12 in the middle

BRIGITTE BARDOT

CLARK GABLE

AUSTIN POWERS

Like George Harrison, Brigitte Bardot’s flavour was also the iconic Jaguar E-type, which Enzo Ferrari called the most beautiful car ever made and ‘the greatest crumpetcatcher known to man’. Designed and manufactured in Coventry, the car could reach speeds unrivalled for a car on sale to the general public at the time.

Clark Gable had a weakness for the Jaguar XK120, and took ownership of the first customer aluminiumbodied version car to reach American shores, after proclaiming he ‘wanted it like a child wants candy’. Three years later, Gable took delivery of another one while filming in Cornwall, though he requested that Jaguar make a few changes to better accommodate his requirements.

Austin Powers’ “shagadelic” 1970 Jaguar E-Type roadster first appeared in the original 1997 movie International Man of Mystery. A Jaguar E-type had been used in the second film and when the third Austin Powers film Goldmember was made in 2002, the link with Jaguar was continued with an XK8 convertible.

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ENJOY GREY GOOSE RESPONSIBLY

PEOPLE

BEHIND THE SCENES

A behind the scenes look at this issue’s fashion shoot with Grey Goose Vodka (Grey Goose is exclusively distributed by P.Cutajar Co Ltd)

Photography: Federico Peltretti Makeup: Chris Attard, FRANKS using Guerlain products Hair: Terri-ann Taliana, Dean Gera, using Dean Gera hair care Styling: Pavli Medvedova Models: Romana and Violeta

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PEOPLE

Violeta: Monsoon skirt (€70), Monsoon blouse (€75), Cocinelle Fresh top handle leather bag (€240), Michael Kors gold earrings (€139), Michael Kors gold bracelet (€229), Michael Kors gold ring (€129), Michael Kors orange necklace (€119), Michael Kors long gold necklace (€139), from Sunlab & VIP, Rayban sunglasses from Sunlab (€200), Romana: Diesel black jeans (€125), Monsoon knitted dress (€90), Maison Scotch bomber jacket (€119.95), Prada sunglasses from Solaris (€429), Cocinelle Orange Ashlee top handle leather bag (€195), Tag Heuer watch, Michael Kors silver necklace (€99). Michael Kors silver ring (€79), Michael Kors earrings (€89) from Sunlab & VIP

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Exclusively distributed for retail & B2B by Unpaused Co. Ltd - Tel: 2147 2798 Retail outlets (in store soon): VIP – Sliema | VIP – Valletta | Sunlab – The Point​​

SCANDALOUS

MUSES Kiki de Montparnasse

Words: Kasey Detmar

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PEOPLE

1. Kiki de Montparnasse Though eventually she helped define the liberated culture of Paris in the 1920s, French-born Alice Ernestine Prin (aka Kiki de Montparnasse) was an illegitimate child, raised in abject poverty by her grandmother. Posing nude for sculptors at the age of 14, Kiki quickly became a regular in the Parisian Montparnasse art scene as a model and a bohemian free-spirit, playing muse to the likes of Chaim Soutine, Moise Kisling, Jean Cocteau, amongst others. She also found work as a cabaret performer, a nightclub singer, an enticing memoirist, an actress, and a painter, later nicknamed the Queen of Montparnasse.

She left Paris in June 1940 to avoid the occupying German army during World War II and died thirteen years later after collapsing outside her flat, apparently of alcoholism or drug dependent complications. Even during difficult times, she maintained her positive attitude, saying, ‘all I need is an onion, a bit of bread, and a bottle of red; and I will always find somebody to offer me that’.

Long after her death, Prin remains the embodiment of the outspokenness, audacity, and creativity that marked that period of life in Montparnasse.

In 1989, Kiki was referred to as ”one of the century’s first truly independent women” in the biography Kiki’s Paris: Artists and Lovers 1900-1930.

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PEOPLE

Marie-Thérèse Walter While Picasso was painting one of his most famous works Guernica, his two French mistresses were tearing each other’s hair out over him. The first French mistress was MarieThérèse Walter (who appears in his paintings as blonde, sunny, and bright), who the artist met when she was seventeen years old. At the time he was 45 and still living with his first wife, Olga Khokhlova. The second mistress was artist Dora Maar (who in contrast to Walter, was painted as the tortured ‘weeping woman’).

Rewind to when Picasso and Walter met - it was 1927 in front of the Galeries Lafayette in Paris. At the time Picasso was married to Olga, a Russian ballerina, with whom he had a five-year-old son. He and Walter began a heated love affair, which was kept secret from his wife for over eight years. During this time, Walter resided close to Picasso’s family, living in an apartment provided by and next door to his art dealer and friend, Paul Rosenberg, in Rue La Boétie. From 1930, she stayed in a house opposite Picasso’s at Rue La Boétie 44.

In July 1930, Picasso bought a castle close to Gisors in the Normandie, which he primarily used as a studio for sculptures, Walter his model and muse for both paintings and sculptures.

In 1935 when Picasso’s wife found out that Walter was pregnant by her husband, she immediately left him and moved to the South of France with their son Paulo. Walter gave birth to Maya and stayed with Picasso at Juan-les-Pins, followed by her departure a year later to a place near Versailles, where Picasso visited on the weekends and some weekdays to play with his daughter. During this time, the artist fell in love with Dora Maar, a surrealist photographer and model. While Picasso was painting Guernica, Walter and Maar accidentally met in his studio, immediately demanding that he choose between them. In response, he told them that they would have to fight it out themselves, at which point the two women began to wrestle. Picasso described it as ‘one of his choicest memories’.

Four years after Picasso’s death, Walter committed suicide by hanging herself in the garage at Juan-les-Pins. In 2004, Walter’s grandson Olivier Widmaier Picasso, published a biography of his famous grandfather entitled Picasso: The Real Family Story.

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“THERE ARE ONLY TWO TYPES OF WOMEN -GODDESSES AND DOORMATS.” [ Left ] One of Picasso’s most renowned works, Guernica.

During the time in which he was painting the piece, his two French mistresses had a confrontation, followed by physical fight, which Picasso later described as one of his choicest memories [ Far Left ] Woman in Hat and Fur Collar (MarieThérèse Walter) by Picasso [ Left ] 24 year old MarieThérèse Walter during Picasso’s period of distorted depictions, with oversimplified outlines and contrasted colours [ Far Left ] Prortrait of MarieThérèse Walter with garland

PEOPLE

Edie Sedgwick Dubbed the ultimate “poor little rich girl”, Edie Sedgwick was an enchanting socialite, model, heiress, and most notably, Andy Warhol superstar. Sedgwick was born in California to a wealthy family that thrived on their high social status. Allegedly, all the Sedgwick children had deeply conflicted relationships with their father (who was said to be narcissistic and abusive).

Initially schooled at home and cared for by nannies, their lives were rigidly controlled by their parents; they were largely isolated from the outside world and it was instilled into them that they were superior to most of their peers.

By her early teens, Sedgwick had developed anorexia, which became so extreme that she was taken out of school by the age of 13. In the autumn of 1962, Sedgwick was committed to a private psychiatric hospital at her father’s insistence. A year later, she began studying sculpture with her cousin, artist Lily Saarinen.

Saarinen said of her, “She was very insecure about men, though all the men loved her.”

During this period her two older brothers died within 18 months of each other – one by suicide, the other by motorcycle accident on New Year’s Eve, which she told friends she considered a suicide as well.

Two years later, Sedgwick met artist and filmmaker Andy Warhol at a dinner party.

Warhol was immediately impressed with Sedgwick’s background and her beauty. After starring in several of Warhol’s short films in the 1960s, Sedgwick was dubbed an “It Girl”, while Vogue magazine also named her a “Youthquaker”. During this period, she developed her “trademark” look – black leotards, mini dresses, and large chandelier earrings.

Sedgwick and Warhol continued making films together throughout 1965 but by the end of this year, their relationship deteriorated and she became estranged from Warhol’s inner circle. She began living at the Chelsea Hotel, where she became close to Bob Dylan, who eventually convinced her to sign up with his manager. According to a friend, Sedgwick had a crush on Dylan that she thought he reciprocated and were beginning a romantic relationship. Unbeknown to her, Dylan had secretly married his girlfriend Sara Lownds that year. It was said that she found out about the marriage by Warhol (who heard about it through his lawyer). Friends of hers later said that she saw the supposed offer of doing a film with Dylan as a ticket to a mainstream film

career, while Dylan likely never had plans to star in a film with Sedgwick, and “…hadn’t been truthful.”

In 1967, while starring in an underground film, Sedgwick accidentally set her room on fire at the Chelsea Hotel and was hospitalised with burns. After further hospitalisations for drug abuse and mental issues over the following two years, She finally returned to her family’s ranch in California to recuperate.

A year later, she was committed to the psychiatric ward of Cottage Hospital after being arrested for drug offences by the local police. While in the hospital, Sedgwick met another patient, Michael Brett Post, who she married. Under Post’s influence, she reportedly stopped abusing alcohol and other drugs for a short time. Her sobriety lasted until 1971, when she was prescribed pain

medication to treat a physical illness. She soon again began abusing barbiturates and alcohol.

The same year, on the way home after a fashion show, Sedgwick took her prescribed medication after drinking alcohol. According to Post, that night she started to fall asleep very quickly and her breathing was, “bad – it sounded like there was a big hole in her lungs”, but he attributed that to her heavy smoking habit and went to sleep.

When Post awoke the following morning at 7.30 am, Sedgwick was dead. The coroner ruled her death as “undetermined/accident/ suicide”. Her death certificate states the immediate cause was “probable acute barbiturate intoxication” due to ethanol intoxication. She was 28.

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PEOPLE

Gala At the age of seventeen and while being treated at a sanatorium in Switzerland for tuberculosis, Russian-born “Gala,” aka Elena Ivanovna Diakonova met and married the poet Paul Éluard. She gave birth to a daughter in 1918, but allegedly detested motherhood, mistreating and ignoring her child. Heavily indulgent along with the most celebrated artists of the Surrealist movement, the two lived in a ménage à trois with Max Ernst for a few years in the ’20s. It was during this time that she also became an inspiration for other prolific artists including, Louis Aragon, and André Breton. (Reputedly, Breton later despised her, claiming she was a destructive influence on the artists she befriended.)

Leda Atomica, 1949, oil on canvas, Salvador Dalí

Later that decade, Éluard and Gala visited the emerging Salvador Dalí in Spain (allegedly a virgin at the time due to his purported phobia of female genitalia). An affair quickly developed between Gala and Dalí, who was 10 years her junior. Gala became a frequent model in Dalí’s work, often in religious roles, such as the Blessed Virgin Mary in the painting The Madonna of Port Lligat. His paintings of her show his great love for her, and some are “perhaps the most affectionate and sensual depictions of a middle-aged woman in Western art”.

“AN ELEGANT WOMAN IS A WOMAN WHO DESPISES YOU AND HAS NO HAIR UNDER HER ARMS.” In the early 1930s, Dalí began to sign his paintings with his and her name as “it is mostly with your blood, Gala, that I paint my pictures”. He is reported to have said that Gala acted as his agent, and helped in redirecting his focus. According to most accounts, Gala had a strong sex drive and had various extramarital affairs, which as a practitioner of candaulism, Dalí encouraged.

In 1968, the artist bought his wife her own separate castle in Girona, where she would spend time every summer from 1971-1980. He agreed not to visit there without getting advance permission from her in writing.

Gala and Dalí, taken after their 1958 wedding ceremony

In her late seventies, Gala had a relationship with multiplatinum rock singer Jeff Fenholt (former lead vocalist of Jesus Christ Superstar) who acted as a business representative for the Dalís in the US. Fenholt has been quoted to state that Gala told him from her hospital bed in Spain that Dalí had assaulted her, knocking her down and breaking her hip, which later resulted in her death. She died in Port Lligat aged 87, and was buried in the castle which Dalí had bought for her.

Portrait of Galarina (1940–45), Dalí

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Gala and Dalí

PEOPLE [ Far Left ] After discovering Adolf Hitler’s apartment, Miller persuaded one of her companions to photograph her naked in his bath.

Photograph: David E Scherman [ Top Right ] Photographed

by Lee Miller while covering the liberation of Buchenwald.

After a beating by freed prisoners, an SS man had hanged himself sitting down by tying a string to a radiator. [ Left] Portrait of Elisabeth Lee Miller

Lee Miller Lee Miller was a successful fashion model in New York City in the 1920s before going to Paris, where she intended to apprentice herself to the surrealist artist and photographer Man Ray. Although, at first, he insisted that he didn’t take students, Miller soon became his model and co-collaborator, as well as his lover and muse. While she was in Paris, she began her own photographic studio, often taking over Man Ray’s fashion assignments to enable him to concentrate on his painting. In fact, many of the photographs taken during this period and credited to Man Ray were actually taken by Miller. Amongst her circle of friends were Pablo Picasso, Paul Éluard, and Jean Cocteau (she appeared as a statue that comes to life in Cocteau’s The Blood of a Poet (1930).

After leaving Man Ray and Paris in 1932, she returned to New York and established a portrait and commercial photography studio with her brother.

In 1934, she abandoned her studio to marry Egyptian businessman, Aziz Eloui Bey, but grew bored with her life in Cairo only a few years later. She then returned to Paris, where she met the British surrealist painter and curator Roland Penrose, whom she later married.

Miller was living in London with Penrose when World War II began. Ignoring pleas from friends and family to return to the US, Miller became the official war photographer for Vogue, documenting the Blitz. She teamed up with the American photographer David E. Scherman, a LIFE correspondent on many assignments. Miller traveled to France less than a month after D-Day and recorded the first use of napalm at the siege of St. Malo, the liberation of Paris, the battle for Alsace, and the horror of the Nazi concentration camps at Buchenwald and Dachau. One photograph by Scherman of Miller in the bathtub of Adolf Hitler’s apartment in Munich is one of the most iconic images from the Miller–Scherman partnership.

In 1949, Miller and Penrose bought Farley Farm House in East Sussex, which became something of an artistic Mecca for visiting artists such as Picasso, Man Ray, Henry Moore, Eileen Agar, Jean Dubuffet, Dorothea Tanning, and Max Ernst. While Miller continued to do the occasional photo shoot for Vogue, she soon discarded the darkroom for the kitchen, becoming a successful gourmet cook. All throughout this time, images from the concentration camps continued to haunt her, and alongside her husband’s long-time affair with the trapeze artist Diane Deriaz. She began on a downward spiral.

Miller was investigated by the British security service MI5 during the 1940s and 50s, on suspicion of being a Soviet spy.

Eventually, Miller died from cancer at Farley Farm House in 1977, aged 70.

After returning to Britain, Miller started to suffer from severe episodes of clinical depression and what later became known as post-traumatic stress syndrome, and began to drink heavily.

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BoConcept

OOZING STYLE The modular Mezzo sofa from BoConcept has adjustable back cushions so that a great fit can be experienced, whether sitting or lounging. The armrests offer extra padding, as well as spacious seating with exclusive stitching details. Design your own Mezzo from a wide range of sizes, shapes and colours. www.boconcept.com

BoConcept

NOBLESSE The Noblesse Kitchen by Aster Cucine offers a raw, natural look, which is one of the key trends when it comes to kitchens. It’s also available in solid chestnut wood doors, combined with white. The result? Modern, fresh and practical. www.brands.com.mt

Petrolea

THE PRESTIGE DAY BED The Prestige day bed at Petrolea is a wooden sofa that can be easily changed into a bed with cushions designed for both the sofa and bed shape. www.petroleamalta.com

Ideacasa

AN ARAN IN NEW YORK ARAN, the best-selling Italian kitchen in the world, furnishes the tallest skyscraper in New York: 432 Park Avenue Aran Cucine, chosen as an icon of design. Luxury and functional apartments, with stunning views of the city, interiors are by Deborah Berke who has chosen Aran collections to furnish Kitchens, Bathrooms, Bedrooms and Laundries. 142 sleek design kitchens, white gloss combined with light oak have been designed following the concept of lightness and functionality, proudly displayed and centred around the panoramic views of New York. www.ideacasa.com.mt L U X U R Y I S S U E 067

each interior requires that unique touch, whether it is for someone’s home and even for an area with a professional function. at camilleriparismode, we have brought together a collection of the finest furnishing fabrics, wallpapers and paints, lighting solutions, carpeting, occasional furniture, sewing services, bespoke sofas and a complete range of home accessories to complement the chosen dÊcor of any interior, whether classical, modern or contemporary.

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t: 20 10 20 30

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THE HOUSE THAT LIVES WITHIN PARATY 070 L U X U R Y I S S U E

ARCHITECTURE

The Paraty House is located on one of the hundreds of islands (they say that there are 365 - one for each day of the year) near the colonial town of Paraty, close to Rio de Janeiro.

Location: Paraty, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Architecture: Studio Mk27 Architect: Marcio Kogan Co-Architect: Suzana Glogowski Interiors: Diana Radomysler Team: Carolina Castroviejo, Lair Reis, Mariana Simas Landscape Architect: Gil Fialho Photographer: Nelson Kon

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ARCHITECTURE

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ARCHITECTURE

Here at Paraty House, two boxes of reinforced concrete rest fixed and connected on the mountainside of one of these islands; two modern prisms between the large colossal stones of the Brazilian coast.

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ARCHITECTURE

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ARCHITECTURE

‘There are a lot of elements from film that I have transferred into architecture. The proportions are very connected to the way you look through the viewfinder, the scene; lighting, not only the artificial lighting but the importance of light.

Even the element of bringing some surprise or emotion. One thing that was almost impossible is that films are mostly comedy, and architecture is completely devoid of humour. Sometimes in a lecture at school they ask me “Where’s your sense of humour?” and I never know how to answer this. Architecture and comedy don’t match, they cannot match - only when it’s a very, very strange architecture.’

Before Paraty House was completed, eminent Brazilian Architect Marcio Kogan is said to have predicted that it would be his favourite house.

The architect’s elegant and calm residential works are to say the very least, peacefully balanced. When asked to describe his style, he once said, ‘There are a lot of elements from film that I have transferred into architecture.

The proportions are very connected to the way you look through the viewfinder, the scene;

lighting, not only the artificial lighting but the importance of light. Even the element of bringing some surprise or emotion. One thing that was almost impossible is that films are mostly comedy, and architecture is completely devoid of humour. Sometimes in a lecture at school they ask me “Where’s your sense of humour?” and I never know how to answer this. Architecture and comedy don’t match, they cannot match - only when it’s a very, very strange architecture.’

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ARCHITECTURE

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ARCHITECTURE

The elegance of Paraty House derives from the seamless connection between indoors and out, from the use of indigenous wood, raw stone, vegetation, and the minimalist, sweeping vista that makes so many of Marcio Kogan’s houses appear as if they are floating.

Here at Paraty House, two boxes of reinforced concrete rest fixed and connected on the mountainside of one of these islands; two modern prisms between the large colossal stones of the Brazilian coast. The volumes project outward from the mountain, almost abreast of the beach, in an eight-metre cantilever.

This house of structural ingenuity finds balance in the topography of the land, constituting an extensive open doorway and living space in the practically untouched nature.

In the rocks of Paraty, within the dense rain forest of the island, poisonous spiders have discovered this orthogonal volume and penetrate the grass that coats the slab. Moving their fore and hind legs quickly, they reclaim the site. The eight-legged arachnids continue

on their way into the house and penetrate into an important furniture collection of the 20th century which has been designed by George Nakashima, Luis Barragan, Lina Bo Bardi, Sérgio Rodrigues, Joaquim Tenreiro and José Zanine Caldas, amongst others. The spiders become lost in an upholstered chair.

The inhabitants arrive by boat. The entrance to the house, already protected by the slab, is via a metallic bridge positioned over a crystallined reflecting pool. The bridge leads to stairs connecting to the lower volume. This volume contains part of the program of the house: living room, kitchen and service area. The continual internal area has a 27-metre span and huge glass windows that allow for the view; the sea.

The same entrance stairs lead to the upper volume which lodges the bedrooms. In the

front part of the house retractile panels of eucalyptus sticks protect the bedrooms from the sun. The spaces that face the mountain have small internal patios with zenital lighting and the use of exposed reinforced concrete, which grants a striking texture to the walls.

The entire top of the house is covered with terraces – observatories for the inhabitants, for the poisonous spiders, or garden for the sculptures and for the myriad of medicinal plants and edible herbs.

The elegance of Paraty House derives from the seamless connection between indoors and out, from the use of indigenous wood, raw stone, vegetation, and the minimalist, sweeping vista that makes so many of Marcio Kogan’s houses appear as if they are floating.

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THE ICONIC CAR

ISO 14000

ARAN WORLD s.r.l is certified in: 078 L U X U R Y I S S U E

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THE ICONIC CAR

Bella Kitchen is seasoned with love Aran Cucine are the most bought Italian kitchens in the world.

Every year more than 60,000 families choose Aran kitchens. #inlovewithbella

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LIVING

S TA R K B LOCKS Architects MJMDA have just completed the clean-lined and Nordic-inspired ‘Stark Blocks’ - a luxurious duplex penthouse where simplicity meets sophistication.

Photography: Peter M. Mercieca Selected furniture items: camilleriparismode and BoConcept

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LIVING This luxurious duplex penthouse was designed to give a sense of complexity and sharpness to otherwise bland and oddly proportioned spaces that resulted from a MEPA prescriptive design methodology. The apartment now offers masslike compositions in custom carpentry using natural materials, juxtaposed over stone floors to create an elegant ease.

Architect Matthew J. Mercieca says, “Although the space available was limited, the design approach made possible the maximisation of the available area, related to the use of each function within the open plan, in order to achieve better unity and flow, whilst using the outdoor spaces to enlarge the indoor space visually. The individual spaces themselves may be transformed to stand out as being entirely entertaining and dynamic, or simply provide a calming environment. The users have the unique opportunity to either have a dip in the bubbling tub on the terrace or lounge by the fire overlooking the scenic Balluta Bay on one side of the property. On the opposite terrace, and more practically located close to the

kitchen one can grill out on the BBQ and later lie on the outdoor sofa bed whilst taking in the view of the Portomaso Marina.�

The long kitchen island subtending the living/ kitchen space also creates the ideal base for multiple uses: to use the space for any family activity, to make cocktails for a house party, or to have a restorative breakfast the morning after.

Throughout the penthouse, hints of yellow and orange act as highlights in the chosen material palette. The elegant and deluxe three-seater sofa accompanying the kitchen/living space provides the ultimate relaxing spot to watch TV, admire the view, or lounge and chat.

Moreover, the on-stand TV may be rotated to be used for internal or external viewing, thus maximising the use of space and functionality in this sui generis residence. The material palatte varies from natural and simple whites, travertine, stained timber panels, and greys, which work well, resulting in a timeless overall effect.

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LIVING

“CONTRAST AND VISUAL INTEREST ARE IMPORTANT TO MAKE A SPACE FEEL ALIVE.” Matthew says, “We like to work with a design strategy that favours long-term viability and use. A good canvas with quality materials works for this.

Our client’s requirements were very much in tune to this way of thinking. However, contrast and visual interest are important to make a space feel alive. The actual selection of pieces that provide this interest - and may be more decorative on a foreground - are very dependent on client’s personal tastes too, which we like to customise for all our clients.”

In order to create the clever relationship between indoor and outdoor living spaces, the architects established access and axis. They created relationships and functional connections, as well as potentials for use of the space.

The architects considered the apartment in use in order to ensure its practicality, paying attention in the design detail, planning every corner and function so that space was cleverly maximised.

Lines create zones and the organisation of flow.

“Once access and visual relationships are defined, all falls into place.”

The overhead perspective in the staircase is further emphasised the painting by Artist Celia Borg Cardona, which seems as if it were made for the space. The client later added other artworks by James Vella Clark, which fit in perfectly with the setup, adding depth and focus.

Wooden cladding is used throughout the penthouse. “There is a soul in timber: its properties work well with living requirements making it comfortable. There is something about the smell of raw timber and its transformation into the soft sense of wellbeing and warmth in interiors.”

“It was a priority to create a luxurious space here.

The L-word is used and abused. Real Luxury means excellent quality, high end materials, well thought-out products; using the best in class in each requirement, be it the furniture, the veneered timber panels, the tradesmen used, the electrical and light fittings - all in a meticulously planned space and design. The combination of all these factors makes for longevity in enjoyment and not a temporal ‘look-a-like luxury’. Luxury lasts just as quality does.”

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[ W H E R E T O G O & E AT ]

TRAVEL FOOD

Incidents in South Africa, a crazy delicious Rocksalt brunch, and serious wine by Philippe Martinet. >>

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TRAVEL

what happens in leobo stays in leobo

Lisa Borain shares the experience of her brother’s wedding at the completely private 20,000-acre estate Leobo Private Reserve in the Waterberg Mountains, South Africa Photography: ŠLeobo Lodge Words: Lisa Borain

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[ TRAVEL ]

Sometimes we have moments that we know we will remember until the day we die. At the precise moment the experience unfolds, we know that the unparalleled detail of it will forever embed its way into our memory.

Riding full speed on a red quad bike through the amber African bush at sunset was one of those moments. I remember precisely how scared I felt, how the dust tasted in my mouth, how the virgin air felt on my face, how my hair swirled around trying to break free from my helmet, and how I just couldn’t stop laughing. I laughed so hard I cried. We all did.

We went to Leobo Lodge in the Waterberg Mountains, South Africa for my brother’s wedding. The bride-to-be (Mairead)’s family (there were about thirty of them who I immediately dubbed as the Kennedys due to their beautiful blonde head count. Further, they all embodied the fresh look of stepping right

out of a Tommy Hilfiger ad), and Pete’s family (us – my Dad, my stepmom Jacqui, and me) met for the first time on a Thursday afternoon at three o’clock.

Getting around in South Africa is generally not that difficult – the roads are organised and because it’s such a vast country, a GPS is not uncommon. However, when you get away from the big cities out towards the bush, things get a little trickier. It seemed simple enough – downloading the map with GPS coordinates and written directions from the website…

I still don’t know whether the coordinates were wrong or if my Dad didn’t plug them in correctly, but we got lost, so very lost, and drove around the Waterberg in that little rental car – my Dad’s head hitting the roof with every bump on the dirt roads – for a very, very long time.

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YOU DON’T SHARE IT WITH ANY OTHER GUESTS; IT’S YOUR PLAYGROUND FOR THE DURATION OF YOUR STAY.

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TRAVEL

We eventually found Pete and Mairead somewhere along the way, who were equally as lost. We all felt silently idiotic at the time, but in retrospect and in all fairness, when I look back at the directions now, I actually don’t know how we ever found it: Drive for about 40 km and the take the N1 North to Pietersburg / Polokwane. Get off the N1 at the Kranskop Toll Gate and turn left towards Nylstroom / Modimolle onto the R33. Go straight through Nylstroom / Modimolle and continue on the R33 for 60kms to Vaalwater (now signed for Vaalwater / Ellisras). Once in Vaalwater turn right at the 4-way stop street towards Melkrivier. It goes on and on.

Upon arrival, Mairead bounded herself into the loving arms of the Kennedys (who had found the place with no problems whatsoever).

Meanwhile, us Borains were immediately intoxicated by the sheer beauty of the setting, the unbelievable design, and the lunch.

The reserve is a completely private 20,000-acre estate in the Waterberg Mountains. It’s owned by an English family who had originally designed it as their private home. Only recently has the reserve become available on a limited commercial basis. It’s only rented out

exclusively, which means that our party was the only one there. Like the brochure says: “You don’t share it with any other guests; it’s your playground for the duration of your stay.”

Playground it became.

There was no timetable. Usually at safari game reserves, there’s a scheduled everything: game drives, mealtimes, gin and tonic times, bath times (no kidding, some of them draw a bath for you and then you realise that you have been a pawn all along). Here, you can do whatever you want, whenever you want – day or night.

Whenever anyone asked for anything, the amazing lady that was managing the reserve would say, “You can do anything if you like.

Just ask.” Awesome.

Dad and Jacqui got to stay with Mairead’s parents in the award-winning ‘Observatory Bush Villa’, which is probably the most architecturally stunning safari house in South Africa. Designed by Architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, this place is unbelievable. The thing about it is that here’s this place out in the middle of southern Africa, yet it’s completely state-of-the-art and the ultimate of luxury. If they weren’t custom-made, all the furniture pieces were designer. Even small details like the dining room chairs were original Carl Hansen Wishbone Chairs. The lighting fixture above the dining table was the skeleton of a hippo.

When I asked Architect Lesley Carstens about it, she said, “Amazing, isn’t it?

I stayed in one of the eight chalets at The Lodge, which has a classic African style with stunning views over the Palala Valley. It was less than a minute walk from the main lounge/ dining area. This whole area is fully staffed, complete with multiple lounge areas, a bar, a snooker table, a boma (sunken open-air fire pit) and a stunning heated swimming pool built into the side of the mountain.

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TRAVEL

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TRAVEL We found the bones and then we put them all out on the floor. We had to figure out then where everything went. When we managed that we had to fuse it all together.”

I’ve never seen outside married so well to inside like this, primarily made possible with the enormous seamless open veranda leading off from the indoor open plan living/dining area. This area also has its own sunken fire pit (though it wasn’t as large as ours over at The Lodge). So this level of luxury, alongside breath-taking views, a heated infinity pool, a Jacuzzi on the roof, satellite WIFI access, and all serviced by a butler, maid and chef. Oh yes – and the actual automated observatory that’s perfect for stargazing.

My Dad, who thinks paying €50 for a chair is “just bloody ridiculous”, irrepressibly enjoyed the whole experience. I was certain that he would to say to me at breakfast after that first night: ‘I’m going to go find a place and camp out in the bush. This design crap isn’t for me.’ On the contrary; he got extremely and unapologetically comfortable in his suite. I could tell because he was sleeping in past 6am, laughing an uncharacteristic amount, and even wearing the furry bunny dressing gowns with ears that made everyone look darkly absurd.

Apart from all of this, I discovered that he had left all of his toiletries out of the bag on the extraordinary vanity wall shelf (I don’t even know if you could call it a vanity wall – it was just so immense). Dad is a very tidy man. He never just leaves things out.

We were there for four days. What did everyone do all day? I have no idea what everyone else did but I spent my time with my niece Kristin and her boyfriend Dean who are in their early twenties and up for anything. We had to fight the young children for the quad bikes - which we did each and every day. We only ever gave them back because they would report us to the judgemental adults who would make it apparent how genuinely pathetic they felt we were. One afternoon eight of us went out to the lake and stripped down before holding hands and jumping in, only to find it freezing and scramble back up. (We later learned that the hippos have a liking to that particular lake, which made it the one and only time we did that). We followed running giraffes.

One time I was the last behind everyone during quadding and mine overheated.

Between the laughter and engine whirs they didn’t notice my frantic screaming to STOP, COME BACK! So I walked through the bush at sunset trying not to attract leopard, thinking to myself – well, if this is it for me then it isn’t so bad. During our lazier moments we played pool, rummy and scrabble at the lodge while sipping on wine. It was positively sublime.

In the meantime, it’s amazing how much the words “You can do anything if you like. Just ask” will resonate so profoundly with perfectly grown-up human beings. There were incidents.

To name a few: An inappropriate crush on the Best Man’s voluptuous violin-playing Bulgarian wife (every time she walked into the room he went to pieces despite his wife sitting right next to him), a star-gazing moment which resulted in a backward roll that lasted the good part of the deck area, a 3am golf cart crash (which involved my father). What happens at Leobo stays at Leobo.

The actual wedding took place at the Observatory and it was just perfect. We ate, drank, and danced until it started to get embarrassing for everyone. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate a wedding or in a better setting. This is South Africa at its finest. A luxury holiday should mean comfort, elegance and privacy, which is precisely what Leobo Private Reserve offers.

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FOOD AND WINE

New stylish concept cafe lounge Rocksalt brings Vamp a brunch for champions.

Philippe Martinet recommends the perfect wines to bring out the amazing flavours even further.

Photography: Johnn Tailerr Tableware: Styled by Kasey Detmar using BUTLERS Shoot Location: Rocksalt

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FOOD AND WINE Rocksalt is a new stylish concept cafe lounge which has recently opened in the heart of the Sliema Strand, offering something a little different for those shopping and living in the area. The idea of Rocksalt is that people can taste and enjoy the variety of selected homemade and artisan products on offer on the premises or shop to take home with them. Apart from the fresh seasonal food, there is a large selection of wines and premium whiskeys and spirits available.

Using a completely different system from the faster food outlets in the area, Rocksalt’s kitchen purchases small amounts of seasonal produce and prepares practically everything to order. The menu offers several dishes which are portioned for one person, but any dish can be made as a platter for sharing, making this the ideal place for people who like to have a chat over a drink and nibble on a selection of different delicious dishes.

The menu ranges from antipasti to foccacias, soups and salads to warm dishes, such as stews and braised meats. These change according to season and what the chef selects while out shopping daily. Local produce, even if it may cost a little more, is always much tastier and often the preferred choice of the kitchen.

The team at Rocksalt Sliema is extremely friendly and professional, which is appreciated by the clientele that also includes a number of regulars who have made Rocksalt their second home or office.

Go have a nice glass of wine with one of their antipasti made with love.

Prosciutto Salad

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FOOD AND WINE

Salmon, Avocado TartarWith Dill Dressing

Salmon Gravadlax

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FOOD AND WINE

SALMON, AVOCADO TARTAR WITH DILL DRESSING How they did it: For the dill dressing, blend the dill with a little salt, grapefruit juice and olive oil.

For the tartar, chop the salmon, smoked salmon, avocado, mint and dill. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix altogether. Leave this mixture in the fridge for half an hour to set, allowing the flavours to fuse.

To plate, place a little salad of your choice on the side. Spoon the tartar mix using a stainless steel ring in the middle of the plate. Place two wedges of grapefruit near the tartar, and drizzle the plate with dressing.

SALMON GRAVADLAX How they did it: Mix sea salt, sugar and brown sugar. Spread evenly all over the salmon (which should be de-boned with the skin on). Chop dill, lime zests (two) and grapefruit (one), and place on top of the salmon, leaving the salmon skin down. Squeeze zested fruit and add 50ml of Tanqueray gin, slowly pouring over the top of the salmon.

Cover and leave in the fridge, removing the excess liquid from the dish twice a day over three days.

Thinly slice when serving.

OYSTERS WITH SHALLOT VINAIGRETTE Finely chop a shallot, add some red wine vinegar, and then leave to set for an hour or so.

Shuck six oysters and drizzle the vinaigrette over them.

Domaine Vacheron Sancerre Blanc

Greywacke 2013 Sauvignon Blanc

This flinty, DemeterCertified AC wine is cultivated on both limestone and flint soils.

The palate starts zesty, with an amazingly austere minerality that makes you believe the wine’s only ingredients are fossils and acidity.

You better not go for it if you want to have a tasty Sauvignon Blanc, but you should not miss this extremely well defined Flint-Sancerre as a true and distinctive expression of the terroir at a reasonable price.

The 2013 Sauvignon Blanc exudes a slightly yeasty / savoury fruit nose with plenty of lemon and lime character presiding over nuances of lightly browned toast, white blossoms and coriander seed.

There’s also some coriander coming through on the elegantly fruited palate that also has a nice suggestion of minerals on the long finish.

Wine recommendations by Ben Martinet, Phillipe Martinet Fine Wines

Miraval’s Salmon-hued beauty from the Côtes de Provence is the work of the supremely talented Perrin family of Chateau Beaucastel fame. Complex and flavoursome, bursting with notes of raspberry, wild strawberries, citrus and melon, finished with a fresh and vibrant acidity, it was recently placed in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 and considered one of the best examples of rosé in the world.

Champagne Pol Roger NV The wine encompasses a nice harmony and a pleasant freshness, whilst preserving some structure. On the palate, flavours of cooked fruit (quince jelly, apricot jam) happily mingle with fragrances of beeswax and acacia honey. The long-lasting aromas, composed of both fruity (candied orange peel, tangerine...) and spicy notes (cardamom, anis) is outstanding.

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FOOD

[ EXCEPTIONALLY FINE FOOD ] A look at the world’s most coveted culinary delicacies

Matsutake Mushrooms While matsutake’s historical prevalence meant that it was previously abundant in Japan, an insect that kills the trees under which the mushroom grows has caused a dramatic decrease in their number. The current lack of trees from which to harvest these mushrooms naturally is a serious problem for the species, which makes them extremely rare.

Goes for: Approximately €920 per pound.

Almas Caviar The only known outlet in which to buy Iranian Almas caviar is the Caviar House & Prunier in London’s Piccadilly that sells a kilo of the expensive Almas caviar in a 24-karat gold tin.

Wagyu Steak Feed the cows beer and massage them by hand.

This is how you get the tenderness and marbling of Kobe beef.

While Wagyu cattle are raised both in and outside Japan, the Kobe varietal which is raised specifically in the Hyogo prefecture is the most elite.

Goes for: Approximately €23,200 per kilo

Goes for: Approximately €2600 per steak.

White Alba Truffle Truffles are notoriously rare because they are so difficult to cultivate. This makes them a true delicacy which some have called the king of all fungi. In Hong Kong, reportedly a real estate investor and his wife paid €150,000 for a large Italian White Alba truffle, which is reportedly the world’s most expensive ever.

Goes for: Approximately €150,000 per 1.51kg (the most expensive on record)

Swifts Bird’s Nest Cave Swifts produce their nests by spitting a chemical compound that hardens in the air. The nests are particularly prized in Chinese culture due to their rarity and supposedly exquisite flavour. It is generally served as a soup but can also be used as a sweet.

When combined with water, the hard nests take on a gelatinous texture.

Goes for: Approximately €1,850 per kilo

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A Star is Born.

Introducing the Jolie-Pitt & Perrin Miraval Rosé, 2013, available exclusively in Malta from Philippe Martinet.

Miraval is a joint venture between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt and the legendary winemakers Famille Perrin of Chateau Beaucastel. The Miraval Rosé 2013 was listed in the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of the World, the only rosé to do so.

Discover more at www.miraval-provence.com

239/BB Tower Road, Sliema 27030093/9947 2208 philippe@martinet-finewines.com

www.martinet-finewines.com