VAMP June 2015

MAY ‘2015

THE MEXICO ISSUE

VAMPMAGAZINE

#18

with our superb weather, we really should make the best use of any outdoor area we have. the key with such furniture is its quality and durability, especially in our mediterranean climate. find a variety of stylish outdoor furniture & lighting, quality awnings, gazebos & shading solutions, umbrellas and a vast range of outdoor fabrics that will take outdoor living to the next level. so this summer, let’s take things outside‌

rabat / sliema / valletta

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@LISA #PARTYALLDAYANDNIGHT

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SLIEMA

ST. JULIANS

MEXICO ISSUE_18

CONTENTS As the sun ushers us into another glorious Mediterranean summer we have found our inspiration in Mexico. When first thinking of Mexico, it’s easy to focus on the contrast between this exotic Latin American country and Malta, but on closer reflection, you can also see many similarities. Both countries have a long and interesting history that has resulted in a tradition of festivals and music, bright colours and wonderful food that centres around fresh ingredients and distinct flavours.

This month we have yet again filled Vamp with the latest trends in fashion and beauty, delicious food and some truly stunning architecture from the mountains of North Mexico.

We also have some great summer reading with articles about art, culture, the evolution of our species, and the laws of attraction - and there would be no better way to enjoy this than while beating the heat with one of the delicious poptail recipes shared with us by Cafe Del Mar and P. Cutajar & Co. So I hope you have as much fun reading the magazine as we had making it.

028. THE GARDEN GNOME’S PARADISE

Tropical-inspired clothes by London-based Clothing Designer Ciara Monahan with photography by Elisa von Brockdorff.

034. WOB IT, LOB IT, OR SHAG IT

Hairstylist Lara Steer from DSalon Ibragg brings VAMP the hottest summer 2015 hair trends.

038. HOT LIKE MEXICO

Summer 2015 wear inspired by the colours and patterns of Mexico.

053. MIX IT UP

Get the au naturale bronze goddess look while protecting and nourishing your skin.

070. SUMMER KIDS 2015

Swimwear and casual clothes for cool kids.

084. PHAT STATS

Our world’s amazing current stats and states.

089. THE EVOLUTION OF OUR SPECIES How today’s technology may be evolving humans.

092. ATTRACTION

The secret law of attraction by Julian Cardona.

096. THE EYE & THE MIND

Photographer Nicky Scicluna talks about his passion for film photography and the beauty in imperfection.

Editor Kasey Detmar Creative Director / Design Chris Psaila Photographers Kris Micallef Anita Berkhane Elisa Von Brockdorff Johnn Tailerr Stylists Luke Engerer Sam May Ciara Monahan Sales / Director Sam Psaila - 7788 0300

This magazine is published by [ VAMP ] PUBLICATIONS

Printers Print It

Contributors Chris Attard Ciara Monahan Claire Borg Clary Moore Elisa Von Brockdorff Emma Borg Cristiano Etienne Gracy Gordon Muscat Julian Cardona Lara Steer DSalon Lee Stack Luke Azzopardi Luke Engerer Mark Cassar Nicky Scicluna Nicole Cuschieri P. Cutajar Co Ltd LOFT P+0 Architecture Rose Tailor

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

104. WILD TIMES

A tribute to some of the wildest and wittiest artists, writers and leaders the world has ever seen, bringing life (and chaos) everywhere they chose to grace their presence.

108. FROM EPHEMERAL TO LASTING

Long-time collector Lee Stack talks about his passion for urban art and his drive to boost its popularity in Malta.

117. SURVIVAL INSTINCT

The award-winning Tattoo Artist Etienne Gracy talks about how art saved his life, pulling him out of the abyss.

120. PRIMITIVISM AND RITUAL IN MALTESE ART & DESIGN

Luke Azzopardi from KSU’s perspective on the existence of associations between the prehistoric heritage of the Maltese Islands and that of the rest of the world.

126. CASA NARIGUA

Mexican architects P+0 Architecture cantilevers Casa Niarigua over Mexico’s breathtaking northern mountains.

facebook.com/ vampmagazine malta

137. FANCY A POPTAIL?

The ice lollies for grown-ups by Cafe Del Mar & P.Cutajar Co

COVER: Henry Cottons jacket from Garbo, €239 | Dress from Guess, €147.50 | Accessorize Bag, €34.90 | Sterling silver bracelet by Zoccai, €70 | Sterling silver Zoccai ring, €140 | Sterling silver Zoccai flower earrings, €150 | Sterling silver Zoccai flower chain, €130 Location: Sherries Garden Centre

140. THE FOUR CORNERS OF FLAVOUR

Amigos brings us tasty and zesty Mexican-inspired dishes.

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[ S U M M E R U P D AT E ]

UPDATE> URBAN JUNGLE

URBAN JUNGLE EVOLUTION The new Urban Jungle concept store debuted late last year in Rome and Perugia, followed by Madrid a couple of weeks later. Now in Malta, this store houses a number of rare and exclusive limited edition products, alongside sneaker collaborations with names like Nike, Jordan Brand, Vans, Converse, Stussy, BBC, SSUR, Undefeated, Staple, Publish, Alife, Obey and Medicom Toy. To mark the unique concept launch, Urban Jungle held a unique event celebrating the individualism and lifestyle that the franchise embodies. “Made by you” is a true celebration of creative individuals, their stories and their sneakers. The new flagship store in Malta is located inside The Point, Level -2.

SUN CARE

EQUILIBRA The Equilibra Sun Tan Lotion Factor 50 for Kids protects the delicate skin of children in a natural way against sun burns and erythemas thanks to a balanced association of the UVA & UVB filters.

BIOPOINT Biopoint Sun Protection Milk Spray is great for conditioning the hair after the sun as an instant leave-in conditioner, protecting against UVA & UVB filters.

SOLAR DEFENCE Take care of your hair this summer. Elvive Solar Defence defends hair exposed to the sun, sea and pools.

From all leading phamacies and beauty shops

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VIVIAN CORPORATION

PLAYBOY VIP Playboy introduces Playboy VIP Platinum edition, a new collectoredition of the brand’s number one selling fragrance for men.

Available for a limited time only, this musthave masculine scent will jet-set you into the glittering high-life. The coolest clubs, the most elite bars… and the most beautiful women are waiting for you.

www.viviancorp.com

VIVIAN CORPORATION

DAVID BECKHAM INSTINCT GOLD EDITION In 2015, David Beckham once again proves that anything is possible. 10 years and 10 million bottles later, he proudly launches Instinct Gold Edition. This limited edition fragrance reinvents the best-selling Instinct scent, capturing the elegance, style and modern masculinity that is synonymous with David himself. The new fragrance is a classic fougère, blending an instant flash of freshness with a vibrant heart. Dynamic and masculine, Instinct Gold Edition epitomises the perfect balance between authenticity and sophistication, sensuality and strength. www.viviancorp.com

CLASS OPTICAL

AIROPTIX COLOURS The newest addition to the AIROPIX®FAMILY, AIR OPTIX®COLORS are now available in leading pharmacies and optical outlets. Whether looking for a subtle or vibrant effect, AIR OPTIX®COLORS contact lenses offer an option for all. They provide nine stunning colours designed to enhance dark or light eyes with a completely natural effect, whether or not in need of vision correction. www.classoptical.com

[ S U M M E R U P D AT E ]

UPDATE> prohealth

CLEANSE Even for those who don’t wear make-up, cleansing is a very important step to remove facial impurities. Prepare the skin to absorb the active ingredients of the serum or face cream put on after. Vichy has just launched the Purete Thermal Fresh Cleansing Gel, enriched with Moringa seed extract for its anti-pollution action and Amilite to reduce tightness associated with hard water. It’s Paraben-free, soap-free, and tested on sensitive skin. www.prohealth.com.mt

Optika

OPTIKA’S 50 YEARS With 50 years of service in the optical industry in Malta, Optika Opticians are celebrating a crowning achievement. The core values of honesty, trust, and quality products have been the foundation of family-run Optika’s continued success. An impressive portfolio includes brands Ray-Ban, Versace, Prada, Oakley, Ralph Lauren, Bvlgari and Dolce & Gabbana, amongst many others. Oliver Peoples, Paul Smith and Stella Mc Cartney have recently been added to the range. Optika is a one-stop shop for all things optical, including sunglasses, spectacles, contact lenses, repairs and eye exams. www.optika.com.mt

Class Optical

MICHAEL KORS EYEWEAR Class Optical has just launched the Michael Kors sunglass and optical collection, now available at leading eyewear outlets in Malta. The highlights range from sleek cat-eye shapes to cool, classic aviators for both sun and optical styles. The new Miranda Eyewear Collection’s clean lines and soft curves reflect a streamlined luxury. The temple detail is interpreted in three different materials — bold metals, brilliant stones, and luxe leathers, to evoke the three attitudes of the Michael Kors woman: sporty, sexy and glamorous. www.classoptical.com

Garbo

GARBO LAUNCH PARTY Vivian Corporation marked the recently opened fashion store Garbo at The Point Shopping Mall in Tigne. Models wearing the latest clothes from the store mingled with guests, giving them an opportunity to view the Garbo collection more closely.

Representing renowned Italian brand names like Henry Cottons, Cerruti 18CRR81 and Marina Yachting, Garbo is aimed at those looking for a combination of Italian flair, urban style and excellent craftsmanship. www.facebook.com/garbomalta

Myoka

PRE-SUN The pre-sun Vanilla Planifolia Body Exfoliator is formulated with the naturally exfoliating coconut and Indian Pennywort extracts, which instantly polishes the skin to reveal a soft new surface. It’s ideal for dry to normal skin with exfoliation that will create an even surface, scrubbing away any imperfection, preparing the skin for sun exposure. Available from Myoka SPAS. www.myoka.com

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Sam, Annmarie Carabott, Sue Gregory, Matt.

#DIESELHIGH

ST ANNE SQUARE, SLIEMA - MERCHANT STREET, VALLETTA

For more info, call VJ Salomone Marketing on 8007 2387

S/S TRENDS 2015

FASHION+ BEAUTY NUDIE JEANS Now available exclusively from IQ www.baystreet.com.mt/iq

SUMMER 2015 LOOKS & TRENDS, THE MAGIC OF SARTO OUT ON THE TOWN WITH ARMANI, DOLCE & GABBANA, BLUMARINE, AND SEGIO ROSSI, A MEXICAN-INSPIRED SUMMER, HOW TO LOOK LIKE A SUN GODDESS, THE BEST UNDER THE SUN CREAMS, AND COOL KIDS.

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S/S TRENDS 2015

Summer 2015 fashion trends bring us an exciting and luscious flora feel that’s a slight departure from last year’s Bermuda style. A nod to the 70s comes in through bold patterns and colours in light, flowing materials, while the retro biker style is big this year with the Mad Max blockbuster’s influence.

Photography: Johnn Tailerr Interior Styling: Mark Cassar at Ideacasa Fashion Styling: Sam May Hair: Lara Steer from DSalon Ibragg Make-up: Krista Zammit Marmara Model: Olga Sidletska

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Jewellery Michael Kors necklace, €199.

Michael Kors bracelet, €169.

Michael Kors yellow stone ring, €69.

Michael Kors gold ring, €99.

Michael Kors bangle, €99.

Clothes Guess jeans, €190.

Guess blazer, €320.

Guess shoes, €155.

Soft Furnishings: Clock, Chair, Statues, Lamp, Carpet all available at Ideacasa

[ S/S TRENDS 2015 ]

MAD MAX THE POST-APOCALYPSE ‘MAD MAX’ 2015 RELEASE THIS YEAR HAS GEARED US UP FOR THE ROAD WARRIOR LOOK. THE RETRO BIKER STYLE IS IN, IN, IN.

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1. Old Jack came helmet from Diesel, €190. 2. Denim shirt from Guess, €95. 3. Diesel Sunglasses from Sunlab, €144. 4. Mr. Daddy watch from Diesel, €144. 5. Sector bracelet from Sunlab, €59. 6. Dolce & Gabbana Majolica print t-shirt from Sarto, €235. 7. Nike Heritage bag from Urban Jungle, €26.

8. Stronghold watch from Diesel, €289 . 9. Converse All-Star Scarpe canvas from Urban Jungle, €89.90. 10. Converse All-Star high-ups from Urban Jungle, €89.90. 11. Vans from Urban Jungle, €90.

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AUTHORISED OUTLETS CENTRAL JOSEPH OPTICIANS, ZEBBUG OPTIKA OPTICIANS, RABAT VISION OPTICIANS, HAMRUN VISION OPTICIANS, B’KARA VISION OPTICIANS, PAVI VISION OPTICIANS, QORMI SUNLAB, ILKIN

+356 2381 1000 | INFO@CLASSOPTICAL.COM | WWW.EYEWEAR.COM.MT SOUTH VISION OPTICIANS, FGURA VISION OPTICIANS, ZEJTUN VISION OPTICIANS, ZABBAR SUNLAB, PAOLA

SLIEMA I-WEAR OPTIKA OPTICIANS YOU VEE SUNGLASSES, THE POINT SUNLAB, THE POINT

ST.JULIANS & SAN GWANN LOURDES OPTICIANS, SAN GWANN MENRAD, SAN GWANN OPTIKA SUN & SEE, ST.JULIANS E-JEWELS, ST.JULIANS SUNLAB, BAYSTREET

NORTH EYELAND OPTICIANS, MOSTA I-WEAR, BUGIBBA

VALLETTA OPTIC CENTRE TUACO OPTICIANS SUNLAB

GOZO VISION OPTICIANS, IT-TOKK JOSEPH OPTICIANS, VICTORIA SUNLAB, ARKADIA

[ S/S TRENDS 2015 ]

TROPICANA NOT A FAR STRETCH FROM THE BERMUDAS TREND, THE TROPICAL TREND SPREADS ITS WINGS, FLORA, FLOWERS AND COLOURS THIS SEASON. A WAVE OF FEMININE PASTELS AND ROSE GOLD JEWELLERY BRINGS SOME ROMANCE TO THE LOOK.

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1. Necklace from Hebe, €99. 2. Purple earrings from Hebe, €69. 3. Sleeveless shirt by Guess, €116.50. 4. Sunglasses from Diesel, €130. 5. Flowered denim pants: from Guess, €126.50. 6. Just Cavalli ring and necklace from Sunlab, €69 (ring) €129 (necklace). 7. Carla Grima silk satin T-shirt dress, €180. 8. Ice Blue Heaven watch from Guess, €149. 9. Charm bracelet from Hebe, €59 Purple charm, €35, Purple flowers, €45, 2 Clips €25 Bow, €29 each. 10. Michael Kors watch from Sunlab, €229. 11. Wedges from Guess, €160. 12. Red heels from Guess, €160. 13. Canvas/vintage leather handbag from Liebeskind, €179.90.

14. Pink shorts from Guess, €95.

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SLIEMA

ST. JULIANS

FASHION

PAIR IT + WEAR IT! Scholl brings you comfort with shoe and apparel pairing for some great summer looks

+

Ladies Lunch

= Ajede – €85

+

Let’s Beach It!

= Tully – €75

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FASHION

+

Let’s Party!

= Band Pasadena – ₏78

+

Beach Party

= Lakeba – ₏75

+

Casual BBQ

= Lumen – ₏89

> TIPS ON GETTING IT RIGHT: ÇŠ $YRLG PDWFKLQJ DOO \RXU FORWKLQJ FRORXUV H[DFWO\ ZLWK WKH VKRH FRORXU ÇŠ :LWK PXOWL FRORXUHG FORWKLQJ IRFXV RQ VLQJOH WRQH VKRHV ÇŠ )ODW VROHG VKRHV GRQǢW ZRUN ZLWK ORQJ VNLUWV XQOHVV WKH\ǢUH VOLJKWO\ UDLVHG ÇŠ 6DQGDOV DUH Č?H[LEOH ZRUNLQJ ZLWK MXVW DERXW DQ\ OHQJWK RI GUHVV DQG WURXVHUV +LJK KHHO VDQGDOV ČŒW EHVW ZLWK evening wear, while flat-soled designs are best for casual occasions. You can also mix it up by wearing high-heeled VDQGDOV ZLWK MHDQV IRU D WRXFK RI HOHJDQFH SCHOLL FOOT HEALTH CENTRE 7+( 32,17 7,*1(ÇŠ7+( 3/$=$ 6+233,1* 6+233,1* &(175( ÇŠ 6/,(0$ ÇŠ 9$//(77$ ÇŠ 0267$ ÇŠ )*85$ ÇŠ 9,&725,$ schollfoothealthcentre.com

M E X I C O I S S U E 025

[ S U M M E R U P D AT E ]

UPDATE> Chemimart

BURBERRY BRIT SPLASH Inspired by the electric energy of London in the heat and water awakening sun-hot skin, Brit Splash is a bright refreshing and invigorating aquatic fragrance for men.

The scent features crisp rosemary, a watery accord, and moss.

Exclusively by Chemimart.

Ta’Xbiex Perfumery

1 MILLION COLOGNE The marine accord mixed with the mandarin gives 1 Million Cologne fragrance a crisp, invigorating, refreshing, radiant note, which remains after the first few minutes.

Seductive, elegant and charming, this fragrance is for the man who plays his life as if it were a poker game, knowing when to play his cards as needed. Ready for anything to get what he wants, he knows that banking on gold can win him the game. His smile creates thrills and sighs of pleasure, the ultimate fantasy of the perfect seducer.

He is sure that he will have all that he wants, and much more. Exclusively by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery.

Ta’Xbiex Perfumery

PRADA LUNA ROSSA SPORT Chemimart

JIMMY CHOO EXOTIC The addictive and sexy fruity floral chypre fragrance Jimmy Choo Exotic is intended for eclectic and edgy women with natural magnetism. The Eau de Toilette opens with refreshing and sparkling notes of blackcurrant sorbet and bright zesty notes of pink grapefruit. In the heart, the carnal sensuality of a tiger orchid hands over to the exotic aura of a passion flower with acidulous floral accents. Finally, the patchouli signature of the original Eau de Parfum is accompanied by fruity and velvety notes of raspberry, offering a light and coloured gourmand touch.

Exclusively by Chemimart.

Sport is a facet of Prada’s DNA. The Prada Luna Rossa range is inspired by the world of extreme sailing and Prada’s Luna Rossa Challenge team. Prada’s vision of sport is unique and sophisticated: the pursuit of excellence. The unique creation hides a sensual powerful oriental heart within an aromatic freshness. Explosive ginger and juniper berries crash through rich, tobacco-inflected notes of tonka bean and vanilla. Vibrant masculine lavender energises this powerful and intense heart to reveal a sleek and elegant scent that unfolds over time. Exclusively by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery.

VJ Salamone Marketing

ALWAYS CONFIDENT X-Treme

SHEER BEAUTY Calvin Klein Sheer Beauty is sparkling and carefree with a pure, sexy confidence. The fragrance evokes the sensuality and delicacy of bare skin with its luminous floralcy and skinlike warmth. Underneath the feminine tones, her confidence is revealed with a skin-like musk and creamy woods.

Exclusively distributed by X-Treme.

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The new Always Ultra pads and pantyliners are equipped with an active odour neutralising ingredient that captures odours and transforms them into odourless molecules. Now women can have the longest ever odour neutralisation and protection, giving them the confidence to get closer for longer. Always Ultra pads and pantyliners can offer up to 100% protection from leaks and odour to help maintain a long-lasting fresh, dry feeling.

Distributed by VJ Salomone Marketing.

THE ORIGINAL AMERICAN BRAND

REPUBLIC STREET, VALLETTA NEW YORK

LONDON

MILAN

MADRID

ISTANBUL

TOKYO

HONG KONG

SHANGHAI

FASHION

028 M E X I C O I S S U E

FASHION

THE GARDEN GNOME’S

tropical paradise Photography: Elisa von Brockdorff (www.elisavb.com) Clothing designer & styling: Ciara Monahan (www.ciaramonahan.com) Hair & make up: Rose Taylor Model: Clary Moore Location: The Doodle Bar, London

Ciara Monahan is a London-based womenswear designer with a hefty addiction to colour and all things kitsch.

With a background in screen and digital printing, as well as embellishment, Ciara’s designs are heavily influenced by pattern and quirky wearable silhouettes.

Unique laser-cut 3D perspex jewellery has been the focal point of the designer’s most recent collection, following a tropical theme of flamingos, pineapples and florals.

This collection was inspired by the story of a garden gnome, aspiring to escape the dreariness of reality to travel the world and collect kitsch souvenirs along the way. These pieces portray his final stop in tropical paradise.

Ciara Monahan tells the story: “Once upon a rainy English evening, in a damp, dreary garden a Gnome reminisced of how life used to be; sunshine, blue skies, flowers, and colour. Where had that all gone?

He had developed an acquired taste to margaritas and now this weather had driven him back to cheap straight whiskey.

Times had changed, life had hardened him.

The garden days were so over. It was time to pack up the bags and escape.

Off he travelled from London; to wine in Paris, beer in Berlin, to Manhattans in New York. A key ring here, a plastic miniature replica there - each city gained a token from his travels. These cosmopolitan cities still weren’t right. He had to escape the industrial man-made worlds around him.

So it was off to new tropical shores.

He followed the coastlines, flew on kites, living on pineapples and bartering with flamingos. This was it; he was living the dream. The margaritas were flowing again, life was a beach.

Picking up kitsch postcards, he began to write back to the gnomes in the garden he grew up in when all of a sudden, a wave of nostalgia hit. Life was ultimately better now, but despite the rain, the grey skies and overpopulation of snails that insisted on slithering on his face, “There’s No Place Like Gnome.” >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 029

[ HAIR TRENDS SUMMER 2015 ]

[ WOB IT, LOB IT, OR SHAG IT UP FOR SUMMER ] Hairstylist Lara Steer from DSalon Ibragg brings VAMP the hottest summer 2015 hair trends.

THE BOB Ever fashionable and attractive, bob haircuts are among the simplest hair styles to manage. For busy types with little or no time to play with, bob cuts are a great option. You simply require a hair blower and you are set for a bob hairdo. The bob will always remain one of the most popular stylish haircuts around, but this year we will be seeing two new hot incarnations of it the lob and the shaggy wob.

“AS SUMMER APPROACHES AND THE SCORCHING HEAT BEGINS, IT GETS HARDER FOR IT TO LOOK ITS BEST, SINCE HEAT DEHYDRATES OUR HAIR, MAKING IT LOOK DRY, FRIZZY, AND BRITTLE. BEFORE THINKING ABOUT HAIR TRENDS IT’S VITAL TO ESTABLISH A GOOD SUMMER HAIR ROUTINE FOR BEAUTIFUL, COOL HAIR THAT STAYS STYLED WELL.�

7 RULES TO HEALTHY SUMMER HAIR Wash and condition with a nourishing conditioner recommended by your stylist at least three times a week.

Using a leave-in conditioner will make all the difference, especially in summer.

Do a home deep-conditioning hair mask once a week to keep the hair hydrated. Have a salonprofessional moisture treatment at least once month.

Always have your hair coloured by a professional to avoid overlapping of colour and damage.

Trim off brittle ends every six to eight weeks.

THE SHAG As seen at Tom Ford S/S 15 the Shag is definitely the biggest hottest summer hair trending, and what’s great about it is that it’s so easy to manage and compliments the hot summer weather well. The Shag is a 70s inspired hair shape styled with a modern approach suitable for all hair lengths. It’s ideal for the girl who wants more cool and edge in her look, as well as something easy to style alone.

THE WOB The Wob is the bob version but styled wavy, hence shaggy Wob. Wob it if you have a slender longish face shape, as it gives width to the face and lifts the cheeks, drawing attention to the eyes. If you have a rounded full face, lobbing it would suit you best. A lob is the longer version of the classic bob styled straight, hence it slims the face.

Celebrities and models are swapping their longer locks and opting for a side parted messy shoulder length. Also most famously BeyoncĂŠ and Kim Kardashian both chopped off their VLJQDWXUH PDQH DQG VKRZHG RII D PHVV\ :RE ZKLFK PHDQV that this new haircut has become a fully-fledged mega trend!

Avoid swimming in chlorine if you can. If it’s unavoidable, apply a hair mask before swimming and rinse the hair immediately afterwards.

As for the colour trend this summer, baby lights and freehand highlighting in shades of toffee biscuit blonde and caramel are trending more than ever. Going lighter to brighten up with a sun-kissed approach is the way to go.

Banish the frizz and control your mane by having a smoothing keratin treatment for the summer.

)RU WKH FRQČŒGHQW GDULQJ JLUO ZLWK DWWLWXGH WKHUH D QHZ semi-matt pastel ombrĂŠ blend trend that’s rocking the scene, which is lots of fun!

034 M E X I C O I S S U E

INTRODUCING 501 CT JEANS CUSTOMIZED AND TAPERED BY US. INSPIRED BY YOU

ST ANNE SQUARE, SLIEMA - MERCHANT STREET, VALLETTA

[ S/S TRENDS 2015 ]

THAT 70’S VIBE SUBTLE AND NOT SO SUBTLE NODS TO THE 1970S WITH SPORTY TOUCHES, BRIGHT GEOMETRIC SHAPES MIXED WITH A HINT OF NATIVE AMERICAN PATTERNS.

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1. Ray-Ban Aviator yellow lens and matte gold frame sunglasses from Sunlab, €152. 2. Heather tunic dress from Monsoon, €90. 3. Geo tribal print weekender bag from Monsoon, €54.90. 4. Lombok bikini top and brief from Monsoon, €29 (top) €23.90 (brief). 5. Carolina printed trousers from Monsoon, €60. 6. Burberry graphic cotton t-shirt from Sarto, €140. 7. Triangle bra with ruffle brief bikini from Guess, €45 (bra) | (€39) brief. 8. Pink tie-dye Vans from Urban Jungle, €79.

9. Nina B vintage leather brandy colour handbag from Leibeskind, €229. 10. Converse All-Star black and white Lux from Urban Jungle, €115. 11. Ilka vintage leather in zinnober colour handbag from Liebeskind, €229. 12. Burberry studded orange sandals from Sarto, €425.

HOT LIKE MEXICO Photography: Kris Micallef Make-up: Claire Borg from FRANKS using Guerlain products Hair Hairstylist: Lara Steer from DSalon Ibragg Styling: Luke Engerer Models: Daniela from Models M, Jeremy Sponsored by FRANKS

Monsoon bikini (top €29, brief €23.50) Guess dress (€126.50) Monsoon kimono (€75) Zoccai earrings from Hebe (€110) Accessorize hair ower .

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( LEFT) arla rima kaftan to onsoon swimsuit ebe m onaco bangle (RIGHT) Monsoon dress (â‚Ź60) Monsoon kimono (â‚Ź75) Earrings from Hebe

(LEFT) Scotch & Soda shorts from IQ (â‚Ź69.95) Scotch & Soda Shirt from IQ (â‚Ź72.95) ommy ilfiger sunglasses from unlab (RIGHT) iesel hirt rooks rothers shorts

(LEFT) ax ara shirt uess trousers Max Mara scarf (€79) ( RIGHT) ax ara skirt, ax ara to , Max Mara jacket, €255 | Misis earrings by Hebe, €250

(LEFT) arehouse to arehouse trousers iebeskind bag ccessorize ower band (RIGHT) iesel shorts iesel to .

ARCHITECTURE

BEHIND THE SCENES [ HOT LIKE MEXICO ]

IN THE MAKING. A behind the scenes look at Vamp’s Hot Like Mexico shoot with Coca-Cola Photography: Johnn Tailerr Make-up: Claire Borg from FRANKS using Guerlain products

050 M E X I C O I S S U E

BEHIND THE SCENES

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RIMMELLONDON.COM

NEW 60 SECONDS SUPER SHINE

BY RITA ORA 3-in-1 technology for up to 10 days wear.

High-impact colour with ultra-shiny finish.

One stroke, precise application.

Rita wears 60 Seconds Super Shine nail polishes in Colourfest collection.

TRADE ENQUIRIES TEL:21344616 www.viviancorp.com

BEAUTY

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1. MAX FACTOR COLOUR ELIXIR GLOSS The colour elixir gloss has a high shine formula that feels and looks incredible, adding a fresh pop of colour to a look without all the stickiness. Lips feel smooth, moisturised and alluring all day long. 2. TERRACOTTA JOLI TEINT POWDER DUO

BY GUERLAIN A single powder, cleverly composed of two complementary shades with pigments that work in osmosis with the skin to make it glow without ever overloading it. 3. FACEFINITY ALL DAY PRIMER Enjoy flawless skin for longer with Max Factor’s latest secret weapon. Simply apply the SPF 20 Facefinity All Day Primer under your favourite foundation to prime, mattify and hold your flawless look in place for longer. 4. MAX FACTOR SKIN LUMINIZER FOUNDATION The new skin luminizer foundation cleverly uses light-reflecting particles to create a gorgeous healthy-looking glow and dewy finish. It also includes a hydrator that helps improve the skin’s condition to create that healthy glow from within. 5. 18K GOLD CUTICLE ERASER A must for healthy-looking, smooth cuticles. The 18k gold cuticle reducer by Sally Hansen reduces and improves the appearance of rough, ragged, parched cuticles. This exclusive gel texture combines real gold with natural humectants to trap moisture and nourish cuticles, while quartz particles gently whisk away excess skin and polish the nail surface. The result: cuticles feel moisturised, conditioned, and hydrated.

M E X I C O I S S U E 053

2 CLEANSERS. 2 MOMENTS OF LIFE. 1 IDEAL SKIN, YOURS.

PURETÉ THERMALE CITY DETOX

Anti-pollution intense cleanser

HECTIC DAY 3 in 1 effortless cleanser

BEAUTY

SUNKISSED> GET THE AU NATURALE BRONZE GODDESS LOOK WITH THESE SECRET WEAPONS

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Clarins From all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

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Max Factor Distributed by VJ Salomone Marketing Ltd. Tel: 8007 2387 Diego Della Palma Exclusively distributed by Chemimart.

Tel: 2149 2212

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Sally Hensen Trade enquiries Vivian Corporation.

Tel: 2134 4616

1. EYE PENCIL & KAJAL A dual purpose product, eye pencil and khol-kajal that when applied inside the eyes, makes them look magnetic and intriguing, whilst when applied outside, boldly emphasises their contour. 2. GARDEN ESCAPE Garden Escape six-colour eye-palette offers a harmony of long-lasting smoothing satin and pearly eye shadows. It includes various shades of pink, pearly white, two subtle greens and an intense taupe.

3. PURPLE ENVY An intense colour that has maximum coverage, with a brilliant finish and a long lasting life. The new formula combined with the maxi brush guarantees an easy application without any smudging. 4. ALL OVER POWDER A scented illuminating powder by Max Factor that evokes sand dunes highlighted by the sun rays. With a new formulation and advanced technology, the powder veils the face and body with a glowing and discrete brightness, releasing an extremely refined and delicate, fruity and floral fragrance. 5. METALLIC GLOSS Available in two warm gold and red-copper shades with an unusual and refined brightness, this gloss is characterised by a unique shine and colour yield. It coats the lips with a light and creamy film so that they look full, voluptuous and glossy. 6. 18K GOLD HARDENER Sally Hansen brings the unique benefits of gold to nails, which locks in their moisture and strengthens them. The treatment combines real 18-karat gold with peptides and amino acids — ingredients known to promote healthy growth. 7. SO PRECIOUS EYE SHADOW PALETTE A unique palette that contains six shades of eyeshadow from pearly to metallic colours, enhanced by golden reflexes. Texture-soft and light to the touch, the eyeshadow creates multiple effects on the eyes: wet for an attractive extra pearl result and dry for a satin, refined and elegant result. 8. BRONZING POWDER Max Factor’s Bronzing Powder is sheer, subtle and sheeny for a sunkissed finish that sets off every make-up look and suits all skin tones perfectly.

M E X I C O I S S U E 055

SKINCARE

LET THE SUNSHINE IN> PROTECT, NOURISH, ENHANCE, AND ENRICH YOUR SKIN THIS SUMMER. SUN PROTECTION 2

DON’T UNDERESTIMATE OUR MEDITERRANEAN SUN. PROTECT YOURSELF AND ENJOY THE SUNSHINE HEALTHILY.

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1. BIOTHERM CREME SOLAIRE ANTI-AGE SPF 30 AND SPF 50. Great for: protecting the face against UV rays through a triple action to prevent the skin from photo ageing wrinkles, dark spots and dehydration. The cream offers high protection, an anti-ageing action, and 24-hour hydration. 2. CLARINS SUN CARE RADIANT OIL SPRAY HIGH PROTECTION UVB/UVA 30. Great for: nourishing and beautifying the skin and hair with the enriched nourishing organic extract Nyamplung oil from an Indonesian tree of a ‘thousand virtues’. It also leaves a captivating exotic fragrance scent on the skin. 3. CLARINS HIGH PROTECTION SUN WRINKLE CONTROL CREAM UVB/ UVA 50+ 75ML. Great for: high protection of the face from the appearance of wrinkles and sun-induced age spots. This lightweight comfortable cream ensures an even, long-lasting tan. 4. ULTRASUN FACE SPF30 OR SPF50. Great for: restoring optimal moisture levels, and reducing the appearance of wrinkles while protecting against UVA and UVB protection. 4. AMBRE SOLAIRE SUN TAN LOTION MILK 50. Great for: blocking and protecting the skin against the harmful rays of the sun, with powerful antioxidants. It’s ideal for very sensitive skin (sun protection and daily care for face, décolleté and hands). 6. SHISEIDO SUN UV PROTECTIVE LIQUID FOUNDATION SPF30, 32. Great for: resisting perspiration, oil and water, and staying true to colour, even after sun exposure. The foundation fits the skin perfectly with protective sunscreens (SPF30) and defends the face against internal sun damage that causes ageing. 7. VICHY CAPITAL SOLEIL DRY TOUCH SPF50.

Great for: a dry touch finish, particularly for oily skin. It contains an ultra-absorbing texture and protects the face against sun exposure. It’s suitable for sensitive skin and is also available in a BB tinted version. 8. SKINCEUTICAL SHEER MINERAL UV DEFENSE SPF 50. Great for: providing UVA and UVB protection in a lightweight, ultra sheer texture for all skin types, even very sensitive. The defence cream offers breakthrough formulation technology in mineral sunscreens.

056 M E X I C O I S S U E

Laser Hair Removal

at Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre

Laser Hair Removal has become one of the most common and popular aesthetic procedures for both men & women, as it is the ideal solution for permanent removal of unwanted hair. All our procedures are performed by internationally trained and experienced doctors in order to guarantee your safety and satisfaction.

At Persona we use state-of-the-art Cynosure equipment in order to achieve fantastic results for all skin types, in the least amount of sessions. The dual-wavelength lasers we use have an inbuilt air-cooling jet which delivers a refreshing effect continuously throughout the treatment, making it comfortable even for clients with a low pain threshold.

21 340 366 | info@persona.com.mt | persona.com.mt | 42, Marina Court, Sir Ugo Mifsud Street, Ta’ Xbiex

SKINCARE

SUN MAXIMISING MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TIME IN THE SUN WITH THESE EXCELLENT TANNING MAXIMISERS.

1. POLAAR HIGH PROTECTION SUN OIL SPF 30.

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Great for: tanning safely and quickly with a versatile formula that’s suitable for the body, face and hair.

2. PIZ BUIN TAN INTENS IFYING SUN LOTION.

Great for: intensifying a tan while intensely moisturising the skin to help prevent peeling and contribute to a longer lasting tan.

3. LEOCREMA MOISTURISING SUN LOTION.

Great for: maximising a tan with 100% organic Argan Oil, enriched with vitamin E and A, unsaturated acids, and omega 3.

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4. CABANA SUN CARE DRY OIL SPRAY SPF15.

Great for: all-over body and scalp protection, leaving zero white marks.

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SELF TANNING DON’T LIKE THE SUN BUT LIKE THE TAN? PLAY IT SAFE WITH A GOOD SELF-TANNER 1. BIOTHERM AQUA-GELEE AUTOBRONZANTE.

Great for: the association of hydration expertise and self-tanning. The self-tan formula is in a light and fresh serum texture for a glide-on application and a natural result.

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2. CLARINS INSTANT SMOOTH SELF TANNING.

Great for: building a subtle, sun-kissed glow while seamlessly gliding onto the face and neck skin for a flawlessly smooth complexion. Line-minimising Acacia Micro Pearls hydrate the skin, trapping moisture to fill in fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores.

3. CLARINS SELF TANNING INSTANT GEL.

Great for: delivering a quick, streak-free, natural golden colour. It’s a non-oily, lightweight gel, and is easy to apply, drying quickly, so no need to wait before getting dressed.

058 M E X I C O I S S U E

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VJ Salomone Marketing | or call 8007 2387 For more info, visit | www.vjsm.com.mt |

Up to 100% leak protection.

Even upside down.

Always Ultra’s top sheet absorbs so fast, it even absorbs upside down. So, wherever you happen to find yourself, Always will keep you protected.

*Improved odour neutralising technology.

SKINCARE

AFTER SUN > TREAT YOUR SKIN TO A GOOD AFTER-SUN CREAM TO KEEP IT HYDRATED, GLOWING AND HEALTHY. 2 DIRECTORY Ambre Solaire Leocrema.

Distributed by Collis Williams.

Tel: 2124 4847.

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Biotherm | Piz Buin | Cabana.

Distributed by Chemimart.

Tel: 2149 2212.

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Clarena.

Distributed by Myoka SPA Tel: 2157 7500.

Clarins.

Available at all leading pharmacies and perfumeries.

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Polaar. Distributed

by Ta’Xbiex Perfumery.

Tel: 2133 1553.

Shiseido.

Distributed by C+M Marketing. Tel: 2142 4079.

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SkinCeutical.

Available from Persona MedAesthetic Clinic.

Tel: 2134 0366.

Vichy.

Distributed by prohealth.

Tel: 2146 1851.

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1. CLARINS AFTER-SUN MOISTURISER ULTRA-HYDRATING. Great for: soothing, repairing, hydrating, and extending the tan. It softens and smoothes the skin, making it more supple. 2. PHYTO CORRECTIVE Great for: plumping up and hydrating the skin with Hyaluronic Acid, leaving it brighter and more radiant. It contains anti-inflammatory ingredients like cucumber and thyme to calm and soothe irritated or red skin associated with post treatment sensitivity or after sun exposure. 3. VICHY AFTER SUN SOS BALM. Great for: powerfully soothing and relieving painful burning sensations. The Capital Soleil after sun balm contains Epilobe Extract, a powerful active ingredient that melts into the skin, instantly calming it. 4. BIOTHERM CRÈME NACRÉE. Great for: intensely moisturising and illuminating the skin after sunbathing. It fights the sun’s harmful effects and gives the skin a toned and healthy glow. 5. POLAAR FROSTY AFTERSUN MILK. Great for: soothing and calming irritations, while it hydrates and prolongs a tan. A patented formula reduces the skin’s temperature and is reinforced in emollients and repairing ingredients that ensure prolonged moisture.

6. CLARINS AFTER-SUN SHIMMER BODY OIL. Great for: nourishing oil infused shimmery micro-pearls for a head-turning tan. Ultra-fine and lightweight, it softens and illuminates the skin with a subtle golden shimmer. 7. CLARENA AFTER SUN ALOE VERA CREAM GEL. Great for: soothing and regenerating the skin after sunbathing with ingredients such as Aloe Vera, D-Phantenol, and Algae Laminaria. It also reduces redness and accelerates skin regeneration, protecting from skin irritation.

060 M E X I C O I S S U E

SKINCARE

BE AWARE!

P

ersona Med-Aesthetic Centre is striving to increase awareness about the importance of prevention and early detection of melanoma. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanin-producing cells, which are normally located in the basal layer of the epidermis or within the dermis, the outer layer of the skin.

Aggressive forms of melanoma can spread to almost any organ in the body, making it of vital importance to detect it an early stage.

By far the biggest risk for developing melanoma is sun damage (UV radiation).

The effects of sun damage are cumulative, meaning that they build up over time.

Up to the age of around 30, cells recover quickly from damage and thus visible damage like sunspots, wrinkles and moles are relatively rare.

Nonetheless, every episode of sun exposure builds up damage (especially in sunny climates like Malta), which becomes apparent and visible later in life.

Local dermatologists have seen a sharp rise in cases of melanoma over recent years. Experts indicate that this rise is due to a variety of different factors, such as the depletion of the ozone layer, popularity of tanning beds, more revealing fashion styles, and social norms encouraging the desirability of tanned skin. While it’s true that our bodies need a daily dose of Vitamin D, absorbing enough sunlight to reach daily requirements is not a problem for people living in Malta.

With the amount of sun hours and strength of the UV rays in Malta, our daily required dose is easily satisfied without the need for any extra effort.

To protect against the harmful effect of UV radiation, Persona recommends to seek shade and avoid the sunniest hours of the day, roughly between 11am and 4pm. When outdoors, try to protect your skin as much as possible, wearing a hat, sunglasses and clothing that covers the skin. Also, as a general rule of thumb, it’s highly recommended to use a high factor broadspectrum sunscreen (SPF50+) throughout the

062 M E X I C O I S S U E

year, especially in sun-blessed Malta. In the summer months it’s important to re-apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours throughout the day when exposed to the sun.

A - for Asymmetry in shape, B - for irregular Borders, C - for Colour variations, D - large (6mm+) Diameter, E - for Evolution that marks a change over time.

Together with SkinCeuticals, Persona MedAesthetic Centre emphasises on the fact that for optimal protection, the use of antioxidants in combination with a broad-spectrum sunscreen will be greatly beneficial and increase protection levels against harmful UV & IRA rays. Recent studies show that IRA (infra red radiation) is also responsible for skin’s photo-damaging effects, hence modern sun protection should include filters that provide IRA protection as well. Whereas sunscreens protect against UVA and UVB radiation from the outside, antioxidants work from the inside, protecting against free radicals formation and DNA damage to skin caused by UV and IRA rays.

‘Dermatologists world-wide insist that there’s nothing healthy about a sun tan, therefore through this campaign, Persona hopes more people will become aware of the dangers of unprotected or inadequately-protected sun exposure’, says Kate Demanuele, General Manager of Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre. ‘Prevention and early detection measurements of skin cancer can save lives, so we hope this campaign will have its needed impact on people’s lifestyle and their skin health.’

Studies show that even the best sunscreen offers up to 55% protection against UV damage, but when combined with a powerful and well-formulated antioxidant, protection levels rise up to 98%.

Another important element in the fight against melanoma is self-examination, for people to detect suspicious lesions as early as possible, and bring these to the attention of their dermatologist at a very early stage when treatment has a very high success rate.

A popular method for self-examination is the ABCDE-method, where the letters stand for five indicating factors of melanoma;

By harnessing the power and influence of print and social media, Persona’s aim is to spread the message about melanoma as far and wide as possible.

Various informative materials will be spread through Persona’s website (www.persona.com.mt) and its Facebook page (Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre) as well as through the local SkinCeuticals facebook page, and through local bloggers and media, hoping to reach a bigger crowd.

As part of its SkinCeuticals year-long charity campaign launched earlier this year, Persona will donate 5% of all SkinCeuticals 2015 sales to Hospice Malta at the end of 2015.

SkinCeuticals antioxidants and high quality, broad-spectrum sunscreens are available exclusively at Persona Med-Aesthetic Centre in Ta’Xbiex or can also be purchased online through the website www.persona.com.mt.

Readers can contact Persona on 2134 0366 or info@persona.com.mt. V

[ S / S K I D S FA S H I O N 2 0 1 5 ]

COOL KIDS

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 FOR THE YOUNG ONES.

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1. Ball Bonanza necklace from Accessorize, €9. 2. Floral dress from Monsoon Children €62. 3. Talope top from Diesel, €41. 4. Tropical pattern romper from Monsoon Children. 5. Baby cheeky mouse hat from Monsoon Children €15. 6. Girls yellow shorts from Okaidi, €15.99. 7. Girls pink with white polka dot bikini from Okaidi, €15.99. 8. Floral headband from Monsoon Children €10.50. 9. Red Vans from Urban Jungle €48. 10. Girls striped bikini from Okaidi, €19.99. 11. Pattern handbag from Monsoon Children €18.50. 12. One-piece bathing suit from Monsoon Children, €18.50. 13. Pniza denim shorts from Diesel, €60. 14. Converse All-Star high canvas with graphics from Urban Jungle, €75. 15. Boys swim trunks from Okaidi, star design €15.99 striped design €19.99.

064 M E X I C O I S S U E

SERGIO ROSSI

SERGIO ROSSI HAS BEEN MAKING MADE-IN-ITALY LUXURY FOOTWEAR SINCE THE 1950S AND HAS BECOME A CULT SHOE FOR CELEBRITIES ON THE RED CARPET, AS WELL AS STREET STYLE STARS. The brand grew in popularity in the 1970s and beyond when Sergio Rossi collaborated with designers like Dolce & Gabbana, Azzedine Alaïa and Versace, soon enough becoming a recurring designer at the shows in Milan.

066 M E X I C O I S S U E

Sergio Rossi shoes are about the architectonic play in the build and a harmony of shape and colour. The ideal shoe is well-adjusted, comfortable, beautiful and flattering; one that enables movement rather than hindering it.

At Sergio Rossi, shoes are ornaments designed to exalt the beauty and enhance the individual style of the person who wears them. Sergio Rossi shoes are just that, and it is still evident in the Spring/ Summer 2015 Matisse collection.

Matisse’s cut-outs on canvas are

transposed onto the brand’s speciality – a refined craftsmanship in laser-cut leather. Elegance, craftsmanship and only the best materials are the quintessential elements of Sergio Rossi style - all elements which are sustained in the brand’s Spring/Summer 2015 collection.

The universe of reference for a collection is often Italian lifestyle, emphasising the importance of Italy and Italian production to the brand’s identity. Despite advances in technology, the brand fundamentally

SERGIO ROSSI

remains dedicated to the pure luxury of artisanship, with each shoe undergoing a minimum of 120 essential steps before it is placed in a box bearing the Sergio Rossi name.

Every Sergio Rossi shoe is an architectural project. Calibrated to perfection, each item is both beautiful and wearable – a work of art. It’s worth noting that for Sergio Rossi the heel is of utmost importance, with not one less than three inches high, giving the leg its

crucial energy and the female body an enhanced stature. The research of raw materials is a fundamental part of the creative process. Sergio Rossi prefers high-quality Italian leathers because they are long lasting and suitable to most design requirements.

amongst celebrities they have become a cult shoe for events like The Academy Awards in Hollywood to the Cannes festival, adored by street style stars like Olivia Palermo and fashion editors Giovanna Battaglia, Carine Roitfeld and Anna dello Russo.

It is no wonder that the Sergio Rossi shoe has always been chosen by refined customers who want extremely high quality Italian footwear. Sergio Rossi shoes are favourites on the red carpet and

Sergio Rossi is available at Sarto, Ross Street, St. Julians. facebook.com/sarto.luxury www.sarto.com.mt

M E X I C O I S S U E 067

DIESEL KID ROCKS THE WORLD WITH COLOUR Wild, nomadic and graphically stunning, the SS15 Diesel Kid collection takes off on a blast of optimism This season, the Diesel Kid team has blended four ingredients into Essence of Diesel – the fuel of an action-packed life. We’ve also scaled down elements from the adult collections to create a “mini me” look, while allowing the kids to interpret each item in their own creative way.

Let’s kick off with the spring season Occasion To Rock collection for boys and girls. Delving deep into the Diesel DNA, it features leather, ripped & destroyed denim and a sprinkling of studs. Colours are black, white and silver, with dramatic splashes of red and orange.

Imagine a fine leather jacket with studs – on the back of the girl’s version, they spell the word Diesel. Just perfect with skinny black jeans.

Or a georgette dress that recalls the adults’ collection, embellished with gems. Also drawing inspiration from the adult world is an elegant jacket with denim lapels – an ideal item for rock royalty! The look is enhanced with graphic tees that conjure up images of rock bands on tour.

Talking of tours, the next element of the spring collection is Nomad Festival, in which our young rockers reinterpret the military look. To the studs and denim they’ve added patches and slub fabrics. Boys wear t-shirts adorned with patches that evoke the festival spirit; girls wear tattoo-style graphic tees given a feminine touch with roses.

Also for the girls, look out for a grown-up floral print dress and a sparkly dress covered in gold sequins. For the boys, a denim jacket with studs is another reference to the adults’ collection.

Moving on to the summer season, first up is Rainbow Racer, which

highlights Diesel’s talent for sport and streetwear, supercharged with colour. Inspired by American and Japanese streetwear trends, it features rainbow details, touches of mesh and patches. Key items include t-shirts with strong graphics and pop colours, as well as shorts in bright colours or cut-off denim.

The final selection is simply grrrr-eat: Welcome to the Jungle! It reflects the animal print trend, as well as big graphics and, once again, bold and brave colours. These include fluo green and blue for boys and vivid pink for girls.

Some news from the jeans universe. Our #joggjeansjunior are likely to be a hit this season As you may remember, joggjeans are made with a special patented technique makes them look like denim on the outside and like jersey sweat-pant fabric on the inside. They combines the softness, lightness and comfort of knitted jersey with the “anywear” toughness of denim. Here we introduce colourful and superstretch versions.

Also in jeans news, see our Sleenker J, with its tailored look and super skinny leg; and the Skinzee J, with its stretchy mix of cotton and elastin and a host of treatments for true denim craftsmanship!

Topside, kids will want to rock our ultralight down jackets in new styles and colours: choose ultrabright, pastel or patterned! Look out for the hip hoodie cut, double face and eye-popping prints.

Finally, let the baby collection re-energize the urban jungle where Diesel Kids meet and play: explosive graphics for him and light nuances for her, enrich with color the denim-bottom outfits which take inspiration from the Junior’s selection patterns.

Each element of the SS15 Diesel Kid collection reflects one of our core values. Put them all together, light the fuse – and stand back for action!

Photography: Elisa Von Brockdorff Styling: Sam May Models: Kay, Zoe, Jodie, Nina, Sam, Joey Wallpaper backdrops: LOFT

SUMMER 2015

Nina (RIGHT) Bikini from Accessorize, €21.50. li o s from ccessorize, . .

Bracelets from Accessorize €9.90.

Hat from Accessorize €15.90.

Zoe (FAR RIGHT) Bikini from Accessorize, €21.50. li o s from ccessorize, . lower headband from Accessorize, €10.50.

Watermelon phone holder from Accessorize, €13.90.

Wallpaper from LOFT

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Sam: (LEFT) iesel t shirt, . iesel denim shorts, .

Ray-Ban sunglasses from Solaris €75.

Jodie: (LEFT) kirt from onsoon hildren, .

Top from Monsoon Children, €21.50. lower headband from ccessorize, €10.50. Sunglasses from Solaris. andals from kaidi, . . ag from ccessorize, . .

Bangles from Accessorize. arrera sunglasses from olaris .

Zoe: (RIGHT) iesel waist coat, . iesel dress, .

Ray-Ban sunglasses from Solaris.

Feather headband from Monsoon Children. Bangles from Accessorize, €7.90 each. Handbag from Accessorize, . . lue onverse from rban Jungle, €59.90. Ray-Ban sunglasses from Solaris €95.

Wallpaper from LOFT.

3 - 14 years-old

okaidi.com

Kay: (RIGHT) Okaidi trousers, €19.99. Okaidi shirt, . . kaidi s otted hat, €10.99. Bag from ccessorize, . .

Shoes from Monsoon, Children, €37.

Joey: (RIGHT) ca from rban Jungle, €35. Shirt from Okaidi, €19.99. Jeans from iesel, . carf from Okaidi, €10.99.

Vans shoes from rban ungle, .

Kay: (LEFT) All-in-one from Monsoon Children, €37. Shoes from Monsoon Kids, €37.

Bag from Accessorize. €15.90 Kay: (RIGHT) ans owered ca from rban Jungle, €27. Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses from Solaris, €105.

Diesel dress, €69. Diesel top, €37.

Panda Purse from Accessorize, €6.90. Bracelets from Accessorize, . . lowered onverse from rban ungle, .

Joey: (RIGHT) Ray-Ban sunglasses from Solaris, . iesel eans, . iesel sleeveless zi u hoodie, . iesel t shirt, . ed ans shoes from rban ungle, . tool and wall a er from

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Nina: (TOP LEFT) ikini from ccessorize, . . li o s from ccessorize, €13.90. Bracelets from Accessorize, €9.90. Sunglasses from Solaris, €95.

Hat from Accessorize €15.90. o s from ccessorize,

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Zoe: (ABOVE) Spotted hat from Okaidi, €10.99. Okaidi skirt, €19.99. carf from kaidi, . . o from kaidi, , .

Bangles from Accessorize, €7.90 each.

Kay: (LEFT) ans owered ca from rban ungle, .

Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses from Solaris, €105.

Diesel dress, €69. Diesel top, €37. Panda purse from Accessorize, €6.90. racelets from ccessorize, . . lowered onverse from rban ungle, Joey: (LEFT) ay an sunglasses from olaris, . iesel eans, iesel sleeveless zi u hoodie, . iesel t shirt, .

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ll wall a er from

Zoe: (TOP LEFT) ikini from ccessorize, . . li . . lower headband from ccessorize, . .

Watermelon phone holder from Accessorize, €13.90.

Jodie: (FAR LEFT) Carrera heart sunglasses from Solaris, €19. Pink hat from Okaidi, €10.99. Diesel top, . iesel trousers, €60. Bracelets from Accessorize, €9.90 |Handbag from Accessorize. Sandals from kaidi, .

Nina: (RIGHT) lowered headband from Monsoon Kids, €10.50 Ray Ban Sunglasses from Solaris €75 Top from Diesel, €61 Denim Shorts from Diesel, €56 Doughnut purse from Accessorize, €9.90 Ballerina shoes from Okaidi, Bracelets from Accessorize, €9.90

SLIEMA 46-48 Tower Road Tel. 21 341 961

PEOPLE AND LIFE

PEOPLE+ LIFE PHAT STATS, THE LAW OF ATTRACTION, THE EVOLUTION OF OUR SPECIES, THE EYE AND THE MIND, THE ORDER OF NEVER HIDE, THE WILDEST AND WITTIEST CREATIVES, STREET ART, AND THE SURVIVAL INSTINCT.

M E X I C O I S S U E 083

* Malta is number 16 on the world giving index rating, a!er Kenya & before Austria & Denmark with the following scores: Helped a stranger 43% Donated money to a charity 78% Did volunteer work 25% World giving index score 49

6. Australia

7. Malaysia

8. UK

9. Sri Lanka

10. Trinidad & Tobago

Helped a stranger 65% Donated money to a charity 66% Did volunteer work 37% World giving index score 56

Helped a stranger 63% Donated money to a charity 60% Did volunteer work 41% World giving index score 55

Helped a stranger 61% Donated money to a charity 74% Did volunteer work 29% World giving index score 55

Helped a stranger 56% Donated money to a charity 56% Did volunteer work 50% World giving index score 54

Helped a stranger 75% Donated money to a charity 49% Did volunteer work 37% World giving index score 54

Most Generous Celebrities.

EVOLUTION

the

of our species Technology has moved away from merely making our lives more convenient, and now has the potential to change every aspect of what we are as humans. Vamp explores how technology is evolving us. :RUGV Kasey Detmar

hen I was a kid, there was a small room that held a double bed and a TV in my family home. On Saturdays, all that could be heard throughout the otherwise quiet house was the click-click-clicking coming from that room. It was us on our

Nintendo, our little hands with a vicelike grip around those remotes, thumbs furiously controlling the direction panels with natural expertise. Every now and then an adult would pass by and insist on having a go. They spent so long looking from the screen back down to their hands to try to figure out how to control the

remotes that they rarely got the chance to play before both their frustration and ours booed them out of the room.

I would hear the adults talk amongst themselves about their amazement at our hand-eye dexterity. “Even the very young ones. It’s incredible.” >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 089

EVOLUTION

THE LESSENED BURDEN OF DETAILS ALLOWS CHILDREN TO FORM A BIGGER PICTURE, GIVING THEM THE CAPACITY TO LEARN SO MUCH MORE, AND HAS THE POTENTIAL TO MAKE THEM SMARTER ON THE WHOLE.

how young people think today, and cater to their particular needs.

Nowadays, give a small child an iPad and they not only understand that touching the screen yields results, but they also comprehend the specific movements to achieve various actions.

The Internet has become today’s primary source of memory that uses external sources to store and to retrieve information (transactive memory). As a result, children might not be as detail oriented in their studying. Whereas we used to ask people for details, we now first turn to the Internet, then consult others, so our need to remember details is lessened, since we have a permanent and steady go-to source for our questions. Having said this, the lessened burden of remembering details allows children to form a bigger picture, giving them the capacity to learn so much more, and has the potential to make them smarter on the whole.

It’s hard to remember how we functioned efficiently pre-email. Today you would have to be over 25 years old to have experienced the world without the world wide web.

What effect is this having on the cognitive evolution of our species? Is it making us dumber or smarter? Google allows us to do a wide spectrum of things we could have never done before. The question is, are we learning these skills, or we merely executing what we are reading? Will we retain this information, or simply depend on Google for the next time we need to remember how to approach the task at hand?

Researcher Betsy Sparrow of Columbia University found that people were much less likely to remember particular facts if they believed that the information would be accessible to them in the future. When presented with random facts, participants in a study who believed the information would be lost after they read it scored much higher on the quizzes that asked them to recall the facts than those participants who thought they could access the information later. She also found that most people immediately turn to the Internet when they are presented with a question to which they don’t know the answer. Further to this, she also discovered that people prioritise remembering where certain information can be found over the information itself.

It’s two-sided: while too much use of the Internet can lead to addiction and shorter attention spans, it has also been shown that being Internet-minded gives people the potential to learn even more. However, in order for this to happen, it’s necessary to have educational systems that embrace

090 M E X I C O I S S U E

My generation will forget what we learned from Google from one day to the next because we have not been taught how to possess an Internet-orientated way of thinking. Our children on the other hand, are evolving to understand the way in which to think in order to obtain and learn the information in a different way. But then what exactly does this imply?

While Internet-orientated education might prove positive, what could possibly be the effect of the constant stimulation that email and messaging have on a child’s focus and productivity? Children have a relatively short attention span as it is. They typically struggle to manage time wisely and to resist impulsive behaviour. So add the Internet and a constant barrage of communication from their friends to the equation, and it becomes an inevitability that they will be disadvantageously wired differently. Internet addiction is a growing issue in psychiatry because as exciting to the brain as it is, stimulation triggers dopamine releases. As a result, once children get used to this constant dopamine release, they can begin to feel bored without it.

This instant communication can also effect children’s need for instant gratification.

Good things come to those who wait no longer applies in our world. No matter how specific, we get the information we need instantly. Regardless of the distance, we communicate immediately. We can order anything we want and it will come directly to us. It will become increasingly more difficult to teach a child the virtue of patience. While patience is all about restraint, it’s also about the state of

endurance under difficult circumstances.

Children will no longer need to make the choice between a small reward in the short term, or a more valuable reward in the long term. Humans and animals are already inclined to favour short term rewards over long term rewards, despite the often greater benefits associated with long term rewards.

Facebook is only seven years old and children under the age of 13 are not officially allowed to join, so researchers have not had much time to study the emotional, physical, and psychological effects it could have on kids. However, upon his research on the cognitive and psychological affects of Facebook for the American Psychological Association, Psychologist Larry D. Rosen found both positive and negative truths.

Rosen’s first finding was that young adults who have a strong Facebook presence show more signs of psychological disorders, including antisocial behaviours, mania and aggressive tendencies as well as more narcissistic behaviour than those who don’t use Facebook as much.

Rosen also found that the distraction of Facebook can have the obvious negative impact on learning. Studies found that middle school, high school and college students who checked Facebook at least once during a 15-minute study period achieved lower grades.

Rosen said new research has also found positive influences linked to social networking. Some young adults who spend more time on Facebook are better at showing “virtual empathy” to their online friends. Online social networking can help introverted adolescents learn how to socialise behind the safety of a screen. When making friends on Facebook, kids are more likely to overlook race and make friends based on interest. Facebook can also raise self-esteem with happy birthdays, handshakes, likes, and words of encouragement.

Humans are evolving, but which way it will go is still uncertain. Will we evolve into impatient, antisocial and aggressive beings? Or will the Internet learning experience create a smarter, more communicative and empathetic species?

Watch this space for a substantial shift in education methods and a whole new level of the social experience. V

YOUR WISH IS YOUR COMMAND

ATTRA YOUR WISH IS YOUR COMMAND: THE SECRET LAW OF ATTRACTION :RUGV Julian Cardona

092 M E X I C O I S S U E

+ A C ION YOUR WISH IS YOUR COMMAND

B

you can start planning the wedding as of today if you really believe that you deserve it. Believe in what you desire as hard as you can, constantly and relentlessly, and you’ll attract it in your life, no question about it. This is known as the Law of Attraction.

To be able to imagine things into existence would be the ultimate super power. To be able to instantly change your current difficult predicament into a joyous life by attracting health, love, money and power is the holy grail of all desires. To many, this is the stuff of movies and comic books, seldom reflecting real life. But what if I told you that there is a school of thought whose proponents preach exactly this: that thoughts become things? To those who believe in this ideology, the invisibility or flying powers that we see in comic movies are mere child’s play compared to the infinitely greater power of the human mind. You’d like a million euros in your bank account? Good, start thinking about it day, night, during lunch, breakfast, in your sleep or awake, whilst jogging or in the loo and you’ll get it. Or perhaps you’d like to have the affection of a gorgeous brunette who loves you more than the fibres of her being? No problem,

Of course normal life has accustomed us to a different scenario. Death, separation, loss, betrayal, bankruptcy, debt, sickness, disappointment and loss of purpose: this is normalcy; this is logical; this is how it is supposed to pan out, right?

From the day we are born our parents, teachers and priests have ingrained it in our minds that we came on this earth to live in sacrifice, to deal with pain and take it as a necessary condition of life, and to live modestly because richness is evil and only those who are privileged can attain it. True abundance is thus a state achieved in Heaven; reserved only for those who withstand pain here on earth. Every day, events seem to confirm over and over again that what we were taught as little children is true, so how can any sane person believe in the Law of Attraction if it flies in the face of thousands of years of experience?

Rhonda Byrne, author of the bestselling book “The Secret” explains suffering in the following way: “Often people find it incomprehensible that so many people could have attracted themselves to the

(/,(9( ,1 :+$7 YOU DESIRE AS HARD AS YOU CAN, CONSTANTLY AND RELENTLESSLY AND YOU’LL ATTRACT IT IN YOUR LIFE, NO QUESTION ABOUT IT. JULIAN CARDONA EXPLORES 7+( /$: 2) $775$&7,21

event (suffering). By the law of attraction, they had to be on the same frequency as the event. It doesn’t necessarily mean they thought of that exact event, but the frequency of their thoughts matched the frequency of the event. If people believe they can be in the wrong place at the wrong time, and they have no control over outside circumstances, those thoughts of fear, separation, and powerlessness, if persistent, can attract them to being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

If I become terminally sick and someone tells me that I was on some sort of wrong frequency with the universe I would probably use my last ounce of energy to punch him unconscious! However, simply because it’s a frustrating statement doesn’t necessarily make it false.

Upon further analysis of her statement, one can sense a hint of science involved.

Could it possibly be that such an outrageously optimistic maxim (that thoughts become reality) can be backed by scientific evidence? As it turns out there are many who confirm that it is!

Albert Einstein whose work on energy and matter will remain immortal explains that, “Everything is energy. Just match the frequency of the reality you want and you cannot help but get that reality.” He then goes to emphasise that, “This is not philosophy, it is physics.” >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 093

SLIEMA

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VALLETTA

Tel: 2132 337

25, Treasury Street.

www.facebook.com/7camiciemalta

Tel: 2124 7770

YOUR WISH IS YOUR COMMAND

DEATH, SEPARATION, LOSS, BETRAYAL, BANKRUPTCY, DEBT, SICKNESS, DISAPPOINTMENT AND LOSS OF PURPOSE: THIS IS NORMALCY; THIS IS LOGICAL; THIS IS HOW IT IS SUPPOSED TO PAN OUT, RIGHT? Realising that the rage-inducing words of Rhonda Byrne were simply an echo of the words of one of the greatest scientists of all time made me stop and think. What do they exactly mean when they say that everything is energy? How could I possibly “match my frequency” to get what I want? According to PhD Physicist Fred Alan Wolf, the place to start is Quantum Mechanics. This relatively modern branch of science has taught us that everything is energy. Every solid thing around us, if put under a powerful microscope, can be seen as a vibrating collection of particles.

Since vibrating particles emit a frequency we are led to the conclusion that every object around us emits a frequency. Now if one is prepared to think of thoughts (not in the abstract sense, but as electrical signals in the brain) as particles that emit a frequency then one can think of himself as a powerful radio antenna. Just like you tune your car radio to “catch” different frequencies, you can tune your thoughts to match the frequency of the reality that you want to attract in your life. To put it simply: Good thoughts attract good things.

Bad thoughts attract bad things. So the more you imagine that million euros in your bank account, feel the cheque in your hands, smile the same smile you’d smile as if it were already yours, the more you’re tuning your thoughts to have the same frequency as that million euros and thus attract it in your life.

The hard part is that to attract what makes you happy, you have to be happy today, this very instant, as if you’ve already acquired it. Happiness attracts more happiness; sadness attracts more sadness – hence, The Law of Attraction.

The comedian Jim Carrey, a famous

proponent of the Law of Attraction, explains how before he even became known, took a blank cheque, wrote his name on it and awarded himself twenty million dollars. He would then drive himself to Hollywood Hills everyday with the cheque in his hands and imagine himself very clearly as a very happy and famous actor making a living in Hollywood. Three years later he got

argue that if there is any serious science involved it is not full proof and for every one person who wills his fantasies into existence there are ten more who are left empty-handed and disappointed. And what about those positive people who still become sick or poor? Why isn’t the law working for them? It could be that it is simply wishful thinking or that even though part of it is true. There are many other forces at work and the law is simply one out of many variables.

What is also true, however, is that no successful person has ever achieved anything without really believing that he was entirely capable of achieving it. Henry Ford famously said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” Those who worked with Steve Jobs mention frequently his use of a “reality distortion field” where he believed so much in something (at times said to be impossible) as to make it true.

the role in the movie The Mask and his pay cheque was exactly twenty million dollars.

Oprah Winfrey got her break in the movie The Colour Purple. In every interview about her life she insists that this was not a coincidence, but rather that she willed it into existence. She recounts how she was “obsessed with The Colour Purple. I ate, slept and dreamt about it. I even moved to Chicago to audition for it without having ever received a call!” Of course she got the role and as they say, the rest is history.

So where does all of this leave us? The sceptics (and there are plenty) would

All of these extremely successful people were driven by belief and the power of their thoughts. So whilst the theory might not be full proof, it is also true that no success ever comes without strong belief, and this in itself is a powerful realisation.

So if it all boils down to a belief, gratitude, happiness and positive thinking, why not try it out? What is there to lose? In the end, whether the law is true or not, one thing will always be certain: happiness is not the product of success, but success is the product of happiness. To me, this will always be a self-evident foundation worth basing the entire edifice of life upon. V

M E X I C O I S S U E 095

INTERVIEW

+ THE EYE 096 M E X I C O I S S U E

Interview: Nicole Cuschieri

Photographer Nicky Scicluna talks to Vamp DERXW KLV SDVVLRQ IRU ȌOP SKRWRJUDSK\ DQG the beauty in imperfection.

INTERVIEW

THE MIND What sparked your interest in photography, and when did you decide that it was what you were going to do?

I’ve always been fascinated by the fact that moments can be recorded at the click of a button. It started off as a hobby, documenting my personal life journey; some people enjoy writing in a diary I prefer to record my experiences through pictures.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

There are many inspirational figures to me. However, the first person that comes to mind is Helmut Newton. His photographs are classically beautiful with a controversial edge, portraying women in a powerful and beautiful light.

Were you educated in photography, or are you self-taught?

I never studied photography apart from a course in film photography which I recently attended. I’m not a person that likes to follow rules in general, and when it comes to photography I believe that once you’ve learnt the basic functionalities, the eye and the mind are your most vital tools. >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 097

INTERVIEW

098 M E X I C O I S S U E

INTERVIEW

What camera do you use the majority of the time?

analogue camera and discover the beauty of film for themselves.

When it comes to commercial work I mainly use my digital Canon 5DMKII, but when I’m shooting for my own personal projects, I mainly shoot 35mm and 120 film using my Pentax k1000 and Mamiya C3.

What first attracted you to film ?

What do you like most about film?

Unfortunately, I believe that we now live in a time of quantity over quality. If you’re the type of person that believes in the contrary, then film is definitely the way to go. When shooting digital, every click is “free”. I can shoot away and then scroll through a set of instant digital images hoping I’ve got the shot. When shooting film I want to make each and every shot count, so my thought process is much more intense. I consider the scene more carefully and once I hit the shutter, I just trust that I’ve got the shot. I could mention so many other reasons why I prefer shooting film, though I encourage any new age photographer to pick up an

Film photography is where it all began so I believe anybody interested in this field would naturally be curious to discover its origins. Once I started shooting on film, I immediately fell in love with the whole process (capturing, developing, and printing) and I believe my love for it will only grow stronger.

Apart from fashion photography, are there any other types of photography you’re looking to move into?

I love shooting street photography for its truth. Unlike fashion photography, street photography is real. You capture the truth in your subject and not somebody put in front of you to pose for the photo.

How much time do you spend taking photos versus retouching photos?

As many people know I’m extremely against the re-touching industry. Nowadays people feel the need to look perfect, yet I love looking at my pictures and seeing what I see in real life, not a wax figure. Beauty is in imperfection.

If you could only have one lens for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why?

It’s very tough to pick just one, though I think I would go for the 50 mm 1.4.

It was the very first professional lens that I purchased, and up until today it has never let me down.

If you could tell yourself anything when you first started out, what would you say?

When I first started working as a photographer, I had my first camera tattooed on me and on the underside it said: “The best is yet to come.” V

M E X I C O I S S U E 099

CAMPAIGN 4 CHANGE

CHANGE CHANGE FOR THE CHANGIER A call out to a new generation of pioneers, trailblazers and rulebreakers...It’s time to #campaign4change.

Welcome to The Order of Never Hide, the most non-secret secret society ever to exist in existence. For millennia, it has been our goal to encourage the world to never hide. Now we invite our members to continue that fine tradition by helping us change the world for the better: to campaign for change to show what you believe in - even if it’s unbelievable. So enter, and create a campaign. Spread the word of The Order of Never Hide as it pledges to use its powers to help members of the order build up their campaigns for change.” >> M E X I C O I S S U E _0101

CAMPAIGN 4 CHANGE

STRANGERS, FRIENDS, STRANGER FRIENDS, IT’S TIME TO SHARE THE CHANGE YOU WANT FOR THE WORLD. WHETHER IT’S FUNNY, WEIRD, SERIOUS OR SERIOUSLY WEIRD AND FUNNY, RAY-BAN WANT TO HEAR ABOUT IT. SHARE IT ON RAY-BAN.COM AND WIN SUPPORT, TRIPS, AND OTHER SUPER SEXY STUFF. #CAMPAIGN4CHANGE >>

DISTRESSED WAYFARER

BRONZE AVIATOR

RAY-BAN ROUND

“GIVE LASTING LOVE A CHANCE”

“CELEBRATE EVERY VICTORY”

“SEE BEAUTY EVERYWHERE”

102 M E X I C O I S S U E

CAMPAIGN 4 CHANGE

CAMPAIGN 4 CHANGE 2015 Ray-Ban - announces the latest chapter of the brands Never Hide communications platform - #CAMPAIGN4CHANGE. The new communication campaign showcases the iconoclastic, Never Hide spirit that lies at the heart of the RayBan brand, bringing to life inspirational individuals as pioneers, trailblazers and rule breakers in their everyday lives, ready for a change. The protagonists are telling

their own #Campaign4change stories and inspiring others to tell theirs to the world.

projected qith Times Square on the same day!

Users are invited to visit www.ray-ban. com/malta to create and share their #campaign4change. You can win support for your campaign on Ray-Ban’s facebook page, awesome prize packs and may even be lucky enough the Grand Prize trip to an exclusive Ray-Ban party in New York in October, with your campaign being

The campaign also highlights Ray-Ban’s latest eyewear collection, designed for those who want to celebrate their individuality, stand apart from the crowd and show what they really believe in.

The collection fuses classic styles with a contemporary attitude for lovers of Ray-Ban yesterday, today and tomorrow.

OPEL ERIKA

RAY-BAN REMIX

TRANSPARENT WAYFARER

“ADD MORE COLOR TO THE WORLD”

“REINVENT THE MARCHING BANDS”

“SPEAK THE TRUTH”

V

M E X I C O I S S U E 103

PEOPLE

A tribute to some of the wildest and wittiest artists, writers and leaders the world has ever seen, bringing life (and chaos) everywhere they chose to grace their presence.

Keith Moon

Oscar Wilde

Dylan Thomas

English drummer from The Who.

Irish author, playwright and poet.

Welsh poet and writer.

01

02

Known as “Moon the Loon” and banned from four different hotel chains around the world, it was not unheard of for Keith Moon to blow up toilets and drop television sets off extremely high balconies.

One of his finer moments: August 23, 1967: Driving a car into a Holiday Inn swimming pool.

104 M E X I C O I S S U E

Dubbed as the “Prince of Paradox”, Wilde was a brilliant conversationalist who understood the value of idle chatter and innuendo. As he once observed, “Hear no evil, speak no evil - and you’ll never be invited to a party.”

One of his finer moments: Turning up to a party which was attended by several US senators in yellow tights, brandishing a large yellow handkerchief in his laceencircled hand.

03

Famous for delivering cynical and deadpan phrases like, “Somebody’s boring me. I think it’s me.” Or, “The land of my fathers. My fathers can have it.” Wordsmith Thomas was always the centre of the party.

One of his finer moments: November 9, 1953: At a party he mumbled, “I have had 18 straight whiskies, I think that’s the record”, and dropped dead minutes later.

Keith Moon

PEOPLE

AT A PARTY HE MUMBLED, “I HAVE HAD 18 STRAIGHT WHISKIES, I THINK THAT’S THE RECORD”, AND DROPPED DEAD MINUTES LATER.

Oscar Wilde

Mae West

Dylan Thomas

Mae West

Truman Capote

Actress, singer, screenwriter, playwright.

Author, screenwriter, playwright, & actor.

04

05

Blonde and sultry, West was a catalyst to the sexual revolution during the ‘30s and ‘40s. She was equally notorious for her bawdy double entendres and witty quips: “Too much of a good thing is wonderful.” “When women go wrong, men go right after them!”

One of her finest moments: Allegedly having sex for 15 consecutive hours.

Truman Capote

Truman Capote was the toast of New York and was said to receive Oscar Wilde’s crown as the wittiest man in the world.

One of his finer moments: November 28, 1966: Hosting “the party of the century” at Gotham’s Plaza Hotel. The opulent black and white masquerade was covered by the media all around the world and even inspired a full-length book. >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 105

PEOPLE

“THE EDGE... THERE IS NO HONEST WAY TO EXPLAIN IT BECAUSE THE ONLY PEOPLE WHO REALLY KNOW WHERE IT IS ARE THE ONES WHO HAVE GONE OVER IT.” Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald

– Hunter S. Thompson

Hunter S. Thompson

06

Empress Theodora

07

Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Scott: American author of novels and short stories. Zelda: Wife to Scott and ballerina.

Empress Theodora The empress of the Byzantine Empire and the wife of Emperor Justinian I.

In the late 1920s Scott would frequently introduce himself to fellow partiers as “one of the most notorious drinkers of the younger generation,” while Zelda practiced ballet routines over and over to the same song on her Victrola. It was also not uncommon for her to pile guest’s clothes or jewellery into a bathtub and set fire to them.

Although Theodora proved herself a worthy and able leader reforming Constantinople into the most splendid city the world had seen for centuries, the former courtesan’s party tricks are still not easy to match, 15 centuries later.

One of their finer moments: Having dinner one night when Scott insisted on going over to the famed dancer Isadora Duncan’s table. He fell to his knees in her praise and Isadora ran her hands through his hair dramatically. In a jealous protest, Zelda threw herself down the stairwell on the edge of the terrace.

One of her finer moments: When working as a prostitute in a brothel servicing low-status costumers, she once entertained 40 lovers in one night, making use of all three orifices and allegedly complained that she wished the holes in her nipples were bigger so that she could have a fourth.

08

Hunter S. Thompson American journalist and author.

Known as the gonzo journalist with a sui generis personality and a trenchant humour, many said that Thompson had a sharp moral sensibility. His career-long autopsy on the death of the American dream places him among the 21st century’s most exciting writers.

One of his finer moments: Leaving the following suicide note for this wife, aged 67. “No More Games. No More Bombs. No More Walking. No More Fun. No More Swimming. 67. That is 17 years past 50. 17 more than I needed or wanted.

Boring. I am always bitchy. No Fun – for anybody. 67. You are getting Greedy. Act your old age. Relax – This won’t hurt.” V

M E X I C O I S S U E 107

STREET ART

Denial (Daydreamer) Screen print and spray paint.

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

FROM EPHEMERAL TO LASTING LONG-TIME COLLECTOR LEE STACK TELLS VAMP ABOUT HIS PASSION FOR URBAN ART AND HIS DRIVE TO BOOST ITS POPULARITY IN MALTA.

T

he term urban art gained its popularity in the late 20th century by the art establishment to describe art and artists who were originally involved in street and graffiti art. The term achieved further endorsement when major auction houses, such as Bonhams used it to categorise these types of works.

The movement began life as an ephemeral art form disappearing as fast as it had

appeared. Now many of the works that were created on the streets with spraypaint and stencils are being transferred to canvases and limited edition prints, completing its transition from an underground subculture to a mainstream art movement.

heart of the big apple, I saw a fire hydrant like so many that you see in New York, but this one was different, with its painted eyes and pair of feet. This stood out to me; making a boring piece of everyday life into something visually pleasing that made me smile.

Urban artist collector Lee Stack says, ‘My obsession with urban art began in the early 2000’s while I was on holiday in New York. Whilst waiting outside a store in the

‘I then went into the store to find a table full of books about street art, and came across a book called ‘Wall and Piece’

by Banksy. I couldn’t put it down. >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 0109

STREET ART 1

1. JPS. One-off, cut-out stencil used to create multiple works.

2

2. Rock With You by Mr Brainwash. Multilayer screen print.

3. Little Red Bombing The Hood by Decycle.

Multilayer stencil on hand-moulded paper.

4. Stop and Search by Icon. Geclee print.

5. JPS. Example of artist stencil street art.

6. Malta’s Urban Art logo.

3 5

“EVEN THOUGH IT’S UNIQUE, WITTY AND VISUALLY PLEASING, THIS TYPE OF ART WAS STILL CLASSED AS GRAFFITI.’” 4

6

110 M E X I C O I S S U E

Sanscript. Unique multilayer stencil on wood.

STREET ART

‘I was amazed at what I saw. It was graffiti, but how I’d never seen it before. The book was full of witty and clever street art, painted on walls, road signs and virtually anything on the street. Each piece had its own meaning and message to give, even if it was highly controversial. A lot of the art in the book was in London, and being a Londoner myself I recognised a lot of the places and locations, wondering why I had never seen them before.

‘I then endeavoured to find out everything I could about street art. I soon realised that the reason I had not seen any art like this before was that the councils would usually remove or paint over them as soon as they were created. Even though it’s unique, witty and visually pleasing, this type of art was still classed as graffiti.

‘After researching and finding out more, I noticed there was quite a strong street

art scene, with artists doing the same thing, yet in their own unique styles. The stencil process itself really impressed me, as the artists would make these beforehand in order to be as quick as possible throughout the night, yet creating accurate, clear-cut images.

‘So my collection began. I began collecting street art pieces that people had found or removed, and also buying limited edition prints of the artists. I also began visiting artists’ solo exhibitions and street art tours in London. At first, my collection consisted of only UK based artists, but after time I began looking further afield, coming across more and more different and unique artists. I collected any street art that I liked the look of.

‘In 2012 I was made redundant and needed to pay the bills so I put a few old pieces of my collection on an auction

site. I was amazed at the prices they sold for and soon realised that street art was becoming very popular with the artists becoming a lot more commercial. The big names in the street art world were selling out at their solo exhibitions, and high-end celebrities were collecting their works, spending tens of thousands of pounds on unique pieces.

‘By this time, my obsession and collection had gotten a little out of control, and my spare room at home was full of tubes, canvases and other street art related pieces.

‘I had been coming to Malta on and off for about six years so I already knew that there were some great artists living on the island, and the Sliema Street Art Festival was gaining momentum. >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 111

STREET ART

‘After finally making the big move to Malta last year, I had no choice but to downsize, so I visited Malta’s art galleries to find urban/ street art, but to no avail.

Propaganda By Post by Mau Mau. Original two-layer stencil and ink on a cardboard post pack.

‘I figured perhaps it was just a case of it not being exposed enough, and as a result, decided to kill two birds with one stone.

‘I began a Facebook page called Malta’s Urban Art (MUA) so that I could sell part of my collection, and at the same time, so that people could see what urban art is all about. I have had some great interest and feedback on the page and I am always happy to answer any questions people may have.

‘Urban art still needs the recognition it deserves here in Malta. It was great when Christian Guemy (C215) came to Malta in October of last year, but a shame that his work was painted over. This is nothing new - this is how it was when street art first started; removed and painted over as quickly as it had appeared. It’s just a case of knowing the difference between urban art and the vandalism of property.

‘What I want to try and achieve now is to help make urban art as popular and as recognised here as it is elsewhere, and to also find talented local artists to give them a platform to showcase their work.

‘There are constantly new pieces going up on the page with framing options available.

Sourcing of particular works and artists can also be acquired.’

Tesco Soup Can by Banksy. Lithograph.

LOCK-Detroit by Above. Archival pigment print.

So watch this space - and in the meantime, keep your eyes peeled to the urban art that’s around you. V

M E X I C O I S S U E 113

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INTERVIEW

THE AWARDWINNING TATTOO ARTIST ETIENNE GRACY TALKS TO VAMP ABOUT HOW ART SAVED HIS LIFE, PULLING HIM OUT OF THE ABYSS. Photography: Johnn Tailerr :RUGV Kasey Detmar

[ INTERVIEW ]

SURVIVAL INSTINCT >> M E X I C O I S S U E 115

W

hen Etienne was a small boy, his escape from an abject childhood was to draw. He found freedom in it; a way to escape the dark thoughts and emotions that threatened his frail child mind. As he grew up, the drawing was not enough. He found the solace in drugs instead; a fast and effective solution to the negativity that enveloped him. As a result, he developed an addiction to heroin and other narcotics that landed him in rehabilitaion four times.

Each time he was committed to rehabilitation his friends would bring him drawing tools to help alleviate the mental and physical anguish he was enduring. He found that during this time, the art helped ease the pain of a roaring unfed addiction. People were taken aback by his talent, encouraging him to sustain and pursue his gift. Entirely consumed and distracted by the addiction, he disregarded the compliments, as well as his passion and talent for art.

By his early twenties, Etienne found himself in rehab for the fourth time - this time for four months, his lungs and kidneys corroded by the ongoing abuse. It was then that he was submitted to a programme where he was heavily encouraged to get in touch with his feelings, which proved an impossibility - until he turned to art again. It was this that led him to discover the survival instinct within himself. He would do whatever it took to make a better life for himself.

The programme director believed in Etienne and encouraged him to develop his capability and talent. His trust in her opinion gave him the strength to keep working at it, honing his artistic skills. Although he invested his time in it, he felt limited with it, as he knew that Malta’s art scene held a low glass ceiling.

When he was released from rehab, he had to begin his life again. It was at this time that he tried his hand at painting. His first painting was a success, which encouraged him to really commit to involving himself to pursue his talent further. His next step was to attempt drawing with a tattoo machine - and from then on, he hasn’t looked back.

Etienne practiced on pig skin a few times before his first customer approached him for a tattoo that would expand over his entire back an angel, left entirely up to Etienne to do free-hand. The artist did it without a sketch and the client was extremely pleased at the outcome, which confirmed that Etienne was doing the right thing. Five years later, Etienne won the first place awards for “Best Convention Colour” and “Best Black & Grey” at the Tattoo Expo 2014. Last year, he also did the sleeve of British singer Cristina Novelli’s arm, which appears in her video of the song ‘Concrete Angel’. His achievements are prolific, yet the artist doesn’t lament on them, only strives to do better work.

He focuses on each project as if it were his first, concentrating to consistently achieve and better his extremely high artistic standards.

His speciality has come to lie in real life and portraits.

The artist has a fair share of his own tattoos, each one not only a reminder of an experience, but also a way to appreciate the art itself.

The women on his body all hold expressions that mean something very specifically to him. His advice to anyone who wants to get a tattoo for the first time? ‘Do what you love the most. Make it unique and based on reality. Don’t just get a picture and copy it. Create your own.’

After tattooing roughly three clients a day for five years, there are well over three thousand people walking around with Etienne’s art on their bodies that they will take to their graves. That’s definitely a way of making something significant out of a talent if there ever was one. V

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INTERVIEW

“DO WHAT YOU LOVE THE MOST. MAKE IT UNIQUE AND BASED ON REALITY. DON’T JUST GET A PICTURE AND COPY IT. CREATE YOUR OWN.”

M E X I C O I S S U E 117

Design

by Luke

Azzopardi

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– T. S. Eliot, ‘Burnt Norton’ (The Four Quartets)

Time present and time past Are both perhaps present in time future And time future contained in time past.

OPINION

Primitivism

and Ritual in

Maltese Art +

OPINION

Victor Agius, Pulvis, 2010.

(LEFT) Matthew Attard Navarro, Private (Portrait of Valentin Puyau), 2015.

Photo: Kris Micallef

(FAR RIGHT) Luke Azzopardi, I Went to Ggantija and Wept on the Cold Stones, Resort 2014.

D

eep-seated associations exist between the prehistoric heritage of the Maltese Islands and that of the rest of the world.

In many ways, these have found refuge in our collective conscious, and are still manifested in contemporary art. Man’s most innate preoccupations and primitive desires are crucial subjects in today’s local art, and in a design world that is growing more aware of geopolitical phenomena, these issues are perhaps, now more than ever, outright and explicit. Upon assessing these, one is made to think of a series of three planes; the landscape, the body as a landscape, and finally, the body within the landscape.

Through his work, Victor Agius addresses the ways in which the universal qualities of the primitive and the prehistoric manifest themselves in contemporary cultures. In his performance pieces, he manages to explore the relationship between form and the lack of it, presenting to viewers an oeuvre of small to gigantic primitive forms, some of which are created through performativity the capacity of speech and communication not simply to communicate but rather to act or consummate an action,

or to construct and perform an identity.

The objects are remnants, and much like cave painting, they act like trophies or memoranda, tracing the pressure of his fingertips and bodily gesticulations. In fact, the notion of soil and clay is a recurring one in Agius’s work, and often finds itself expressed in bacchanalian terror.

When formal qualities are introduced to a primitive vision, the aesthetic becomes a lot like that advocated in the photography of Matthew Attard Navarro. His models are often placed within internal landscapes where no vegetation is present. The body itself becomes an intricate landscape of markings, clothing, as well as textures, acting as a dominant ‘Other’ that is contemporaneous to the viewer. The body is elegantly debased through sexual desire, only to be eventually elevated to a mystical object of veneration. The stillness of his work appeals to the most primitive of senses, however, it also relies on symbols, which act almost like loud thuds amidst an infinite landscape.

This idea could also be applied to the unclothed figure, on which a metaphorical landscape can be placed, wrapping the body in a radical and primitive vision.

My own work often exhibits these symptoms. The Resort 2014 collection titled I Went to Ggantija and Wept on the Cold Stones plays upon the idea of creating bold, sculptural structures using very stiff fabrics marked with print. The clothes act like stand-alone sculptures when they are not worn, solid enough to hold up on their own. In fact, this solidity and permanence is what makes them primitive. In the stripping down to the basic, essential items of clothing, with a colour scheme that references both the local Gozitan stone and sand, it seeks to explore the uncivilised through the simplification of that which exists within the real of the civilised.

Perhaps the way backwards is the way forward, and in returning to the natural landscape, both literal and metaphorical, we are enforcing the preoccupation of the 21st century: trying to make sense of things in a fragmented and incomplete world. In many ways, the return to our long gone brothers and sisters is key in creating a universal language (or nonlanguage), which could be understood by everyone, and which would elevate the personal to apply to every man. V

KSU and VAMP have come together to publish one contribution each issue that exposes a student’s perspective.

VAMP is now available at the Students’ House at the University.

M E X I C O I S S U E 119

GARDEN RUNWAY

SARTO OUT ON THE TOWN >> The Spring/Summer 2015 collections by Blumarine, Dolce & Gabbana, Emporio Armani and Sergio Rossi were striking amongst the enchanted setting and location of a runway and performance show where talented Asian performers, local artists Christabelle Borg, Miriam Christine and Chris Grech, set the ambience for the main act – the Sarto Runway.

Each runway featured exclusive contemporary pieces from International Fashion Weeks, carried across the catwalk by professional local and foreign models.

Dolce & Gabbana’s collection this year cited the Spanish influence on Sicily between 1516 and 1713 as their starting point.

As always, the collection was a heartfelt ode to Sicily.

From a cheerful celebratory place, they crafted a palette of RED–the colour of blood in bullfights and of passion, BLACK – sombre, yet somehow sultry, and crisp white in mixture of lace, brocade and embroidered textures – everything adding up to a sultry Carmen look.

All were delighted by the flouncing flamenco ruffles and signature Dolce & Gabbana lace smothered cornelli embroidery, polka dotted pieces and carnation embellishments that made up the collection.

Whilst keeping their signature look, with black brassiere pieces outlining every year’s collection, the duo knows just how to make their heritage pieces dynamic and current – and how to update their Mediterranean spirit.

Denim also found a place in the collection: jeans encrusted with sparkle, but with a more sensual and modern cut than you would find on a rhinestone cowboy.

The silhouette and embellishment of a matador’s jacket brought about the collection – and released clothing that will truly get you dressed to kill.

Photo: Kris Micallef

I

was pleased to see that Sarto took advantage of the striking Garden of Serenity for the Sarto Garden Runway 2015. Taking on the challenge of surpassing last year’s success, the show conjured up the spirit of the by-gone era of 1930s nightclubs in the Chinatown district where guests and celebrities were entertained by singers, dancers and performers.

The toreros came to life on the catwalk in designer jacquard boleros and jackets covered in ornamental embroidery and three-

Photo: Kris Micallef

dimensional embellishments – with flattened twodimensional substitutes of ornamentation morphed into printed fabric. Dolce & Gabbana’s matadorinspired collection put its full weight behind fiery flamenco red, showing it in suiting, oversized hoodies and shirting.

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Lines and geometric patterns manifested in a futuristic collection from Emporio Armani. The balance between experimentation and rigour typically associated with Emporio Armani produced a markedly urban collection in which avant-garde architectural forms were transformed into the pure graphic language of line and colour. Black moved to bright optical white and grey, made surprisingly fresh by the geometry of parallel, crossing and broken lines. Line was the leitmotif of the collection – sometimes shaded, or placed horizontally using special techniques increasing its consistency.

Armani took its prints in a futuristic direction with disjointed grid patterns and broken lines. Optics of monochrome lines, block stripes, squares and triangles were worked into leather jackets, lightweight tops, shirts and accessories

GARDEN RUNWAY

for the collection that takes on the sportswear/ futurism movement in typically classic Giorgio Armani style.

Armani chose to highlight the geometry of his ensembles by limiting the colour palette almost exclusively to shades of black and white - and their kissing cousin hues of grey and navy.

In this way, the stark contrasts became even bolder and more striking on the catwalk. With dashes of navy and metallic, paired with optical white and white that fades to grey, it created a synthesis of plays on colour and underlined an unstructured silhouette that is dynamic with a sporty look. Surprising contrasts of materials accentuated the lightweight nature of the collection and its flowing and easygoing dynamism.

Inspired by Martial Raysse paintings the message of Blumarine was precise: reality with a dash of magic. Tailored gracefulness pervaded Blumarine’s S/S 2015 collection in natural and unaffected elegance in which simplicity

represented the key to contemporary and chic looks. Created with Mikado silk, fil coupé, silk chiffon, cady, charmeuse, silk tulle and crepe de Chine each piece recalled the straight lines of the end of the 1950s.

Prints kept the collection’s lightness, complemented with flowers which are everpresent on the Blumarine runway.

Colour blocking is never missed, and this time it played with shades of white, black and candy pink, defining the shapes of the bomber jacket and fil coupé and Mikado overcoats.

For Blumarine this season’s nature and artifice unite in the quest for personal beauty and a vibrant energy pervades it. The usual characteristics of the house – the romantic spirit, decorative taste and a sense of blooming femininity, are seen through a new lens. The angle is graphic but warm with a silhouette that is neat and airy with an accuracy in design and purity of lines that enhanced the textures. Rich

All catwalk shots by: Mark Cassar

THE SHOW CONJURED THE SPIRIT OF THE BY-GONE ERA OF 1930S NIGHTCLUBS IN THE CHINATOWN DISTRICT WHERE GUESTS AND CELEBRITIES WERE ENTERTAINED BY SINGERS, DANCERS AND PERFORMERS.

colours alternate with graphic black and white, firm short lines with flowing long ones, glossy with opaque, creating a balance of contrasts that enhances and frees the feminine figure, while keeping a fresh touch of romanticism.

Fabrics are impalpable, colours softly rich in contrasts: shades of pale pink, mint, bright accents of yellow, pink, blue, graphic and white.

Sergio Rossi showcased its outstanding craftsmanship at a display of wearable art featuring a Matisse-inspired collection in the second pagoda.

The garden setting for 2015 took us beyond the Runway and entertainment, teasing our senses with a live cooking space that carried us on a gastronomic trip to the Orient. Presented in partnership with Bottega Spumante, Johnny Walker, Acqua Panna, Acqua Sanpellegrino, Zest, Screen, Lito’s Place, Sound Machine, Be.Hotel and U-Group, Sarto Garden Ruwnay was a satellite event of Mercedes-Benz Malta Fashion Week. V

M E X I C O I S S U E 121

LIVING + FOOD

LIVING+ FOOD Available from camilleriparismode

HOME UPDATES, A HOUSE CANTILEVERED OVER THE NORTHERN MOUNTAINS OF MEXICO, ICE LOLLIES FOR GROWN UPS, THE FOUR CORNERS OF FLAVOUR, AND COCA-COLA’S KISS.

M E X I C O I S S U E 123

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[ H O M E U P D AT E ]

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Available at Ideacasa. www.ideacasa.com.mt

camilleriparismode

VERTIGO The Vertigo lamp is a large, yet extremely weightless and flexible pendant lamp by designer Constance Guisset. It’s made out of numerous dynamic struts that spread a diffuse shadow pattern as soon as they’re illuminated. Because of its low weight (500g) and large size of about two metres, Vertigo moves softly with the rhythm of the wind. Available in two sizes and in colours black, copper, blue and white. camilleriparismode, www.camilleriparismode.com

Boconcept

BOSTON CHAIR camilleriparismode

CRUZ CHAIR The Vincent Sheppard Cruz is an eye-catching chair with its lighthearted design and raw look.

Originally made for the outdoors this lounger is beautiful and comfortable enough for the indoors too. The seat is made of rattan with kraft paper binding, while the steel base is coated with a galvanised powder.

Available in white, black or natural at camilleriparismode. www.camilleriparismode.com

Although it stands tall and slim, it was the softest things such as duvets, cushions and pillows that inspired Danish designer Henrik Pedersen to design the Boston chair. It is like 20 soft cushions arranged in a way to support you perfectly while still maintaining elegant, sleek lines. Boston is available in more than 100 fabrics and leathers, and also comes with an optional footstool.

Available from BoConcept. www.boconcept.com.mt

LOFT

MASTERS OF CLAY DESIGN

LOFT

Masters of clay design, Atelier Vierkant have worked on numerous architectural projects internationally, and with their distinctive style and high quality products, have garnered an enviable reputation. The specialists manage the ceramic items from the initial conceptual stage right up to the point of installation, serving as the perfect link between the architect’s concept and the fabrication’s process. Available on order at LOFT. www.loft.com.mt

Clear, innovative, and tongue-in-cheek, every Pols Potten product shows its Dutch roots. For almost 30 years, it’s these very same qualities that make these products feel right at home anywhere in the world. View the new collection at LOFT, where they offer a styleconscious concept for spaces and invite visitors to forget about normalcy. www.loft.com.mt

POLS POTTEN

M E X I C O I S S U E 125

ARCHITECTURE Architects: P+0 Arquitectura Location: El Jonuco, Mexico Images: Sofia Flores Chapa, courtesy of P+0 Arquitectura

CASA NARIGUA A NORTHERN MEXICO MOUNTAIN-ENCLOSED NEIGHBOURHOOD ECHOES NUMEROUS MEXICAN TOWNS, WHERE TALL MOUNTAINS CARVE A VALLEY FOR ITS INHABITANTS TO SETTLE. HERE, THE PEOPLE LIVE AMONGST THE TYPICAL VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE. P+0 ARCHITECTURA CANTILEVERS CASA NARIGUA OVER THESE BREATHTAKING MOUNTAINS.

126 M E X I C O I S S U E

>

ARCHITECTURE

“THE HOUSE IS AN INTERACTIVE SCULPTURE WITH PLANNED SPACES THAT HOLD AS MUCH FUNCTIONALITY AND BEAUTY AS THOSE IN BETWEEN.”

T

his awesome home in the northern mountains of Mexico by Mexican firm P+0 Arquitectura is cast in orthogonal exposed concrete tinted to resemble the soil from the site - and, according to designboom, “so as to become almost a geological incident rather than a manmade feat”.

The clients wanted a house that was fully functional over one floor, without any steps. This “ground floor” needed to contain an indoor social area fully integrated with outdoor family terraces, a kitchen fully connected with the indoor and outdoor living and dining rooms, as well as a pool solarium that would flow into every space, including the master bedroom.

Each room needed to have generous views to the “gorilla peaks” - the two mountains that almost touch. The rest of the scheme had less restrictions in terms of form and connections, and was also a lot smaller. >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 127

ARCHITECTURE

“AN INTRICATE PLAY BETWEEN THICKENED WALLS, FLAT ROOFS, ETHEREAL WINDOWS AND HEAVY TIMBER BEAMS FOUND IN TRADITIONAL MEXICAN ARCHITECTURE ALLOW INHABITANTS TO EXPERIENCE EACH FACE OF EVERY FORM.” A serious design challenge was posed with the site’s dense population of cedar trees. The feat was to design a house that enjoys the view of the mountains while respecting the existing ecosystem. Due to the horizontal growth of the trees that block the view, the only possible solution was for the architects to centre the concept of the home around lifting it above the ground to leave the ecosystem intact.

Architect David Pedroza Castaneda says, ‘It took us two projects to come up with the final solution.

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

‘The first option was a more conservative scheme, partially excavated, in which the views from the private areas could be enjoyed through a screen of trees.

‘The clients suggested getting rid of the trees, which forced us to come up with the final scheme; a platform that rises the house over the tree tops. After a couple of months, some columns, walls and additional spaces were eliminated and we were courageous enough to propose the cantilevers that now give the building its distinctive image.

‘Once we decided to create a floating house, we were then faced with the challenge of making that structure work in the cleanest, most abstract way possible. That led us to a very slow process of using the walls as the structure or carefully placing the beams on top of the slabs to maximise the windows.’

Now, three volumes are stacked upon one another, while different shapes layered in various orientations form dramatic cantilevers and subsequent terraces, viewpoints, and vertically-communicative spaces. >>

ARCHITECTURE

L U X U R Y I S S U E 129

ARCHITECTURE

“THE GLIMPSES OF THE EXTERNAL SCENERY VIA THE TRANSPARENCY OF THE GLASS BECOME A FACT OF EVERYDAY LIFE.” >>

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ARCHITECTURE

M E X I C O I S S U E 131

ARCHITECTURE

132 M E X I C O I S S U E

ARCHITECTURE

The garage is located off the main road, in the ground level plinth. Here, the occasionally used “recyclable” storage rooms host furniture that can double as guest bedrooms, as well as a mechanical room that liberates the rooftop for a deck with 360-degree views.

fact of everyday life. The material palette inside also recalls a rustic, timeless appearance, however abstracted into modernity it is. Antiques sit beside contemporary furniture, while paintings, masks and sculptures draw attention and create interest.

The next floor up is where the main entrance area for visitors, the master suite, and the staircase leading down to the lower level are located. Above this, the kitchen, dining, and living areas enjoy amazing scenery and access to one of many outdoor terraces and decks.

An intricate play between thickened walls, flat roofs, ethereal windows and heavy timber beams found in traditional Mexican architecture allow inhabitants to experience each face of every form, while the glimpses of the external scenery via the transparency of the glass become a

‘The clients wanted to keep some antiques that were in the family for decades and a lot of traditional Mexican handcrafts. We decided that the ultra clean, hyper stylised look would be a mistake and opted for a neutral, rustic image that welcomed the family’s belongings and the artwork that would later be included around the house.

To fulfil this, we chose furniture pieces that, even with its clean lines, were made of wood, rusty metals, leather and other materials that had enough personality to become timeless.’ V

M E X I C O I S S U E 133

loft.com.mt

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.

Love Of Fine Things

Tel: 20 9999 66.

Triq San Pawl, Naxxar.

Monday to Friday. 10am – 7pm Saturday. 10am-2pm

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LUST-LIST GSOU USB WEBCAM A good malware application is capable of hacking into any computer and remotely controlling it, including the webcam.

The cute little Gsou USB WebCam with auto closing robot hands will prevent unwanted pictures from being recorded by unauthorised parties. The Gsou USB will automatically put down his hands when he detects incoming Skype/MSN video calls, and will close his one-eye camera once the video conferencing session completes.

Must have it.

PROJECT ARA PROJECT Google and Motorola are working to introduce what will be the only phone you’ll ever need. With its modular upgrading, you can remove and replace the parts of your phone that need fixing as you please without having to buy a new phone.

THE OCULUS RIFT The virtual reality Oculus Rift gadget has generated a lot of buzz in the past year with developers, but a consumer version is finally upon us. Virtual reality has also attracted a lot of companies to produce their own gadgets - Samsung and Sony will also release VR head gear soon.

NYMI BAND BRAGI THE DASH HEADPHONES The Dash new wireless earbuds reinvent headphones, as they not only work as just in-ear headphones, but also serve as a fitness tracker and a microphone. The Dash allows users to track their workouts by measuring their body vitals and giving them real time acoustic feedback.

The NYMI band is a new smart wearable band that lets users unlock their phones, cars, computers and even homes by using their heartbeat to authenticate the user.

Your heart will now be able to truly open doors.

M E X I C O I S S U E 135

BUY 3 BOTTLES AND GET 2 MARTINI ROYALE GLASSES FOR FREE.* * Offer valid until stocks lasts and only available from: ‘The Store”, P.Cutajar & Co Ltd, Capital Business Centre, Triq Taz-Zwejt, San Gwann, SGN3000. Tel: 2248 3400

POPTAIL RECIPES

FANCY A POPTA IL? A

Photography: Anita Berkhane, www.anitaberkhane.com Shoot Location: Cafe Del Mar Recipes: Gordon Muscat, Bar Manager at Cafe Del Mar Malta Spirits: P. Cutajar & Co

P. CUTAJAR & CO LTD AND CAFE DEL MAR TEAM UP TO BRING YOU THE BEST ICE LOLLIES: THE ONES FOR GROWN-UPS. >> M E X I C O I S S U E 137

POPTAIL RECIPES

M

1

aking cocktails isn’t that hard. You’ll need a mould, but they’re readily available at virtually any shop that supplies kitchenware.

Don’t be too heavy-handed with the alcohol or they won’t freeze.

They take approximately 12 hours to freeze well and remember before trying your own recipes all alcohols freeze eventually, but as a general rule the stronger an alcohol, the lower the temperature needed to freeze it. With very strong spirits, this is lower than the temperature in an average freezer. So stick to Gordon’s recipes below to yield a successful result.

Simply mix the ingredients, and when fresh fruit is in the mix, just place it in the mould and pour the liquid over it. Happy poptailing!

1. GIN RICKY 30ml Bombay Sapphire Gin fresh lime juice fresh cucumber tonic water

2. GREY GOOSE BLOODY MARY 30ml Grey Goose Vodka 80ml tomato juice salt & pepper Worcester sauce Tabasco chopped celery stick

138 M E X I C O I S S U E

“AS A GENERAL RULE THE STRONGER AN

POPTAIL RECIPES

2

3

ALCOHOL, THE LOWER THE TEMPERATURE NEEDED TO FREEZE IT.”

3. BACARDI PINA COLADA

4

30ml Bacardi Superior 30ml mixer pina colada mix 80ml pineapple juice coconut flakes

4. MANDARIN MARGARITA

5

25ml Tequila Camino Real 30ml mixer mandarin puree lemon juice

5. BACARDI STRAWBERRY MOJITO 30ml Bacardi Superior 20ml mixer strawberry puree 3 lime wedges cut into cubes 8 fresh mint leaves crushed Ice

M E X I C O I S S U E 139

THE FOUR CORNERS OF FLAVOUR. > ARCHITECTURE

L

ocated in Dingli Street Sliema, Amigos is one of Malta’s most reputable food concepts. Taking its inspiration from all four corners of the globe, Amigos has built itself a solid reputation in the specialisation of tasty, versatile, and affordable foods. The menu itself consists of a distinct balance of Italian and Mexican recipes - from Sesame Seed Pizza to Mouth Watering Nachos, Gourmet Burgers to Mexican Tacos, Amigos simply has it all. Check out the menu online (www.amigos.com.mt), order a free delivery (Tel: 21332480), and even now download the new app. This article focuses distinctly on the Mexican influences and recipes, thus hoping to add a bit of spice back into your life! From all the Amigos team, we sincerely hope you enjoy the flavours.

Recipes brought to you Exclusively by Amigos

140 M E X I C O I S S U E

PROMOTIONAL ARTICLE

BEAN TACO Without a doubt the healthiest, yummiest taco on the menu. Simply chop a handful of fresh coriander, squeeze the juice of two limes, add red kidney beans, diced red onion, olive oil, garlic, and ground sea salt. Toss the ingredients together leaving out the coriander and rucola. Line them up on a freshly made taco, top with sour cream (use greek yoghurt with a touch of lime if sour cream can’t be found) and shredded cheddar cheese. Place in an oven at circa 200C for approximately eight minutes.

Remove the taco from the oven and top with the rucola and chopped coriander. And voila, you got it - the famous Amigos Bean Taco ready to eat in the comfort of your own home. >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 141

PROMOTIONAL ARTICLE AMIGOS NACHOS DELUXE Perfect for nights in, football games and movies… This one is a winner. Buy crispy corn-flour nachos from any supermarket, then top with fresh tomato salsa (find recipe under chicken supreme), red kidney beans, sour cream, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese. Place under a hot grill for roughly four minutes, or until the cheese starts to melt.

AMIGOS GRAND CHILLI JALAPEÑO BURGER WITH JALAPEÑO SKINS This recipe includes 250 grams of Irish beef, cheddar cheese, caramelised onions, rucola, jalapeños, sour cream, one California roll, and a lot of love. Fry the meat, grill the bun, caramelise the onions, put together, then top with the other ingredients, and let it roll. For the

142 M E X I C O I S S U E

jacket potatoes – boil a potato until cooked through, then cut in two and scoop out a small portion of potato, top with garlic butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños. Place under a grill and once the cheese melts and the potato browns, you’re ready to go.

CHICKEN SUPREME For all you chicken lovers. Take one chicken breast, dust in flour, dip in egg yolk, then coat in a light breadcrumb, pepper and salt mix. Shallow-fry until crispy on the outside and cooked through the middle. Then cut the chicken into thin strips, place inside the taco, top with fresh tomato salsa (tomatoes cut into cubes, garlic, onion, coriander, a hint of lime, pepper, salt, and olive oil), sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Place in an oven at circa 200C for approximately eight minutes. Remove the taco from the

oven, and you’ve got yourself an Amigos Chicken Supreme. Scrumptious!

AMIGOS HOT CHILLI SAUCE This classic hot sauce recipe is to die for. It’s a hot spice level, so be sure to be prepared! Combine chilli peppers, Harissa, dried chilli, garlic, onions, salt, and oil in a non-reactive saucepan over high heat.

Sauté for three minutes. Add water, a little bit of vinegar and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes, or until peppers are very soft and almost all of the liquid has evaporated. Remove from the heat and allow to steep until the mixture arrives to room temperature. In a food processor, purée the mixture for 15 seconds, or until smooth. Taste and season with more salt if necessary.

Refrigerate. Let it age at least two weeks before using. Enjoy!

PROMOTIONAL ARTICLE

M E X I C O I S S U E 0143

KISSED BY COKE Vamp Print.pdf

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Image: Part of the 2015 Malta campaign

[ KISS THE PAST HELLO ] In the beginning, a pharmacist’s secret formula gave Coca-Cola its distinctive taste. A few decades later, a glass company’s bottle design gave Coca-Cola its signature curves. Now, 100 years young, a global campaign celebrates this distinct Coca-Cola bottle contour.

I

n 1915, Coca-Cola needed to fend off a host of copycat brands by strengthening its trademark. The company and its bottling partners issued the creative challenge to a handful of US glass companies: To develop a “bottle so distinct that you would recognise if by feeling it in the dark, or lying broken on the ground.” The Root Glass Company developed the winning design; an elongated contour shape and distinct ribs mimicking a cocoa bean.

The bottle was patented on and has since inspired a century’s worth of signature moments in film, social history, design and fine arts.

Coca-Cola is celebrating the centennial of its proprietary package in 2015 with a year-long campaign that includes new advertising, a music anthem and a series of art exhibits featuring works from leading contemporary artists including Andy Warhol, Norman Rockwell and

Peter Blake. ‘Since its creation in 1915, the Coca-Cola bottle has achieved iconic status as a symbol of refreshment and uplift, and it remains an important asset for our business today,’ says CocaCola’s Chief Marketing Officer Marcos de Quinto.’The campaign, is being executed in over 130 countries, and is our invitation to consumers around the world to share in the specialness of an ice-cold Coca-Cola.’ >>

M E X I C O I S S U E 145

KISSED BY COKE

“AS A COMPANY THAT PLACES A HUGE PRIORITY ON CREATIVITY AND DESIGN QUALITY, WE LIKE TO WORK OUTSIDE THE BOX FOR INSPIRATION”

Iconic celebrities Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and Ray Charles unite in the new “Kissed By” global outdoor, digital and retail campaign. The images feature the stars being “kissed by” the Coca-Cola bottle - an experience shared across generations for the last 100 years. Local markets are furthering leveraging “Kissed By”, by featuring modern-day celebrities and musical icons, such as pop singers Rita Ora and Avicii in the UK. In Malta, Ivan Grech from Winter Moods and IlKlikka’s actress Valentina Rossi were the celebrities chosen to celebrate the iconic relevance of the symbolic CocaCola bottle by keeping in line with the brand’s historical entertainment scene involvement.

co-workers on their breaks. CocaCola took advantage of this trend and in 1929, coined the slogan “The Pause That Refreshes,” which then became synonymous with Coca-Cola. Other 1920’s and 1930’s advertising campaigns depicted Coca-Cola as part of the allVamp Print.pdf

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Before artist Hadoon Sundbloom’s ads for Coca-Cola appeared in 1931, Santa Claus had been illustrated as wearing blue, green, yellow, or red. He was also of average size. The new Coca-Cola advertisements showed Santa as a plump, round man with rosy cheeks and a long, white beard, wearing bright red - which was essentially the perfect image of Coca-Cola. Not only did the ads become popular, but they have helped to shape the way the world imagines Santa Claus.

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For the most part of the 20th century, the Coca-Cola brand has been renowned for its clever marketing and design innovation.

American way of life, which made the brand familiar to Americans, creating a deep association with patriotism and comfort.

In 1950, Coca-Cola in a contour bottle was the first commercial product to appear on the cover of Time magazine. The cover was originally due to feature company leader Robert Woodruff’s portrait on the cover, but he refused, insisting that the brand was the most important thing, and Coca-Cola itself should be featured. This appearance solidified Coca-Cola as an international brand.

By 1920, Coca-Cola could be found at most soda fountains across the US. The drink was popular with on-the-go people, especially since prohibition was keeping bars shut down. It was typical for people to meet up with their friends or

In 1923, the famous ‘six-pack’ carrier was developed by Coca-Cola, inspiring consumers to take the bottles home and drink the beverage more often, further encouraged by the novel availability of the home refrigerator.

Now, the “Kissed By” campaign highlights the historical and inspirational role which the Coca-Cola bottle has played in film, society, design and the fine arts, as well as underlining the power of bringing people together. V

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