YourLuxury Africa - March 2023

Pr e tt y Ye nd e

DIOR’S NEW MUSE IS THE SOFT POWER OF CULTURE

THENEWi5

COME HOME TO EXTRAORDINARY

COME HOME TO EXTRAORDINARY

Steyn City is the epitome of luxury. With exceptional design, outstanding facilities, and a prime location, it offers a lifestyle of opulence. From a prestigious golf course to thrilling mountain biking trails, scenic running paths, and top-notch horse-riding facilities, Steyn City has it all. The presence of a stunning 300m lagoon and a helistop adds to its exclusivity. Set amidst an award-winning, indigenous landscaped 2,000-acre parkland, Steyn City guarantees security and sophistication. Investing in this ultimate luxury address ensures an unparalleled living experience.

Steyn City is the epitome of luxury. With exceptional design, outstanding facilities, and a prime location, it offers a lifestyle of opulence. From a prestigious golf course to thrilling mountain biking trails, scenic running paths, and top-notch horse-riding facilities, Steyn City has it all. The presence of a stunning 300m lagoon and a helistop adds to its exclusivity. Set amidst an award-winning, indigenous landscaped 2,000-acre parkland, Steyn City guarantees security and sophistication. Investing in this ultimate luxury address ensures an unparalleled living experience.

steyncity.co.zasteyncity.co.za

MY TOP PICKS

Panerai’s Luminor Due Tutto Oro collection reveals its first watches with gold bracelets. The legacy of the brand’s renowned crown protection device informs the bracelet’s design. Available in white and deep marine blue; with the latter sold exclusively in Panerai boutiques. panerai.com

The unisex Thebe Magugu Sisterhood collection features earrings, pendants, and a belt among other collectible accessories, all with the brand’s classic Sisterhood emblem. thebemagugu.com

The latest iteration of Cartier’s iconic Trinity ring – in celebration of its 100-year anniversary – is an investment that never goes out of style. Available in white gold, rose gold, yellow gold, set with 435 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 3.50 carats. cartier.com

At the intersection of luxury goods, art, and commercialism, the mystery of how much things are worth, and why, continues to unravel. Trade of product for profit and investment in markets for financial gain are the universally understood practicalities of money making. The idea of buying and collecting for personal reasons inspired by a love for aesthetic, cultural, or historical value is not a new one, and the two worlds of investing for profit and investing for emotional satisfaction have made civil neighbours when it comes to financial decision making. The walls between them started to crumble when the likes of Basquiat, Warhol, Chanel, and Jordan started to sell for headlinemaking profit.

Christie’s New York reported a history-making year for handbag and accessories sales in 2023, and when the Whitney Museum moved out of a building, which then became a showroom for one of the world’s largest auction houses, Sothebys, the writing on the walls couldn’t have been clearer. “Some view this as a symbolic moment. A revered public museum turns into a sales outlet for art, sneakers, handbags, watches, jewels, and other luxury stu ,” writes Scott Reyburn for The Art Newspaper, to which artist Deborah Kass adds, “The old, wonderful

Whitney Museum will be turned into a showroom, open to the public only when something is for sale. It’s the zeitgeist…”. I wait with optimistic anticipation for the day a vintage Thebe Magugu piece makes record-breaking sale history, reflecting the African luxury side of the zeitgeist’s coin.

Guerlain Abeille Royale Clarify & Repair Creme, arcstore.co.za

This month we turn a refined eye to the luxury products that satisfy passion and the potential for profit. We also profile the people who are personally and financially invested in the luxury industry, whether it’s in the realm of selling classic cars (p32), collecting jewellery (p16), watches (p14 and p34), wine (p46), investing in luxury property (p36), or being deeply vested in culture and art (p38 and p48), the features in this issue bode well for those interested in forging a new way of enjoying their investments.

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Johannesburg: Sandton City - Panerai Boutique. Melrose Arch - Elegance Jewellers

Pretoria: Menlyn Park Shopping Centre - The Vault

Cape Town: V & A Waterfront - Charles Greig Jewellers

Mauritius: Floreal - Adamas

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

PETRA MASON

Cultural historian Petra authored a trilogy of vintage photography books for Rizzoli New York and recently founded Obscure Studio and ArtHit, both championing art from the African continent.

“A rare investment luxury item that I’d love to acquire is a gigantic piece by ceramicist Zizipho Poswa, to hide away in forever!”

See: p38

MALU LAMBERT

Award-winning wine writer Malu judges for Decanter, IWSC, and Concours Mondial du Sauvignon, and is a regular taster at various wine competitions.

“I’m lucky to have three Montblanc pens. Two were gifts, and I won the other at the 2019 Louis Roederer International Wine Writers Awards as Montblanc Emerging Wine Writer of the Year.”

See: p46

SONY THOMAS

Sony is a lifestyle journalist with more than two decades of experience in the publishing world. He has an inherent fascination in the various mechanical intricacies that connect the worlds of automobiles and timepieces.

“A rare investment luxury item that I’d love to acquire for myself is a Series 1 Jaguar E-Type.”

See: p32

yourluxury.africa

ONLINE NOW: Watchmaker Ernest “Nanny” Ramagoshi has dedicated his life to his craft. Now, he is passing on his skills to the younger generation at Richemont’s in-house training facility. Read the full story as part of our month-long watchmakers’ series, on yourluxury.africa.

MONALISA MOLEFE

Monalisa is a versatile artrepreneur who focuses on contemporary cultural and fine art, and excels as fostering impactful connections.

“My most treasured luxury items are my raw, polished, and cut natural gemstones that I began collecting 10 years ago. I treat myself to new stones every time I celebrate a life milestone or achievement.”

See: p12; p22

FASHION • WATCHES • WHEELS, WINGS & WATER

AFRICAN ART IN ASIA

The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair – the only international fair dedicated to exhibiting contemporary art from Africa – will make its Asian debut from 26-30 March at auction house Christie’s in Hong Kong. Following the event’s success in New York, London, and Morocco, the pop-up version, 1-54 Presents, will open alongside Art Basel Hong Kong and showcase curated African exhibitions. 1-54.com

BACK TO THE FUTURE

Billy Monama’s Back to the Future is a one-night-only musical autobiography reflecting on the musician’s artistic journey. In this third edition of the show, audiences can expect eight segments, including a tribute to love, spirituality, and African heritage, as well as a special guest appearance from singer Brenda Mtambo. On 2 March at the Joburg Theatre. Tickets are available at webtickets.co.za.

CULTURE DIARY

MOTHER TONGUE LA EXHIBITION

Southern Guild’s new Los Angeles gallery opens with two exhibitions: Mother Tongues, a group exhibition showcasing 25 African artists, and solo show Indyebo yakwaNtu (Black Bounty) by Zizipho Poswa. Both exhibitions explore the concept of ‘mother tongue’ as a crucial cultural and communicative tool, reflecting on personal and collective identity through art. The exhibition is on until 18 April. shop.southernguild.com

BASKETBALL LEAGUE IN JOBURG

The 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL) season kicks o this month in Johannesburg, spanning South Africa, Egypt, Senegal, and Rwanda over four months. Featuring 12 national champions and a record 48 games, this expansion marks the league’s first games in South Africa, highlighting the BAL’s growing influence and commitment to promoting African basketball talent globally. For more information and fixtures, visit bal.nba.com.

MXS KULTURE FESTIVAL

The MXS KULTURE FESTIVAL in Johannesburg on 23 March celebrates heritage and culture, with music and fashion at its heart. Not to be missed is MAXHOSA’s winter collection, which will showcase the brand’s commitment to integrating cultural appreciation into daily life. This event highlights the diverse cultural expressions that MAXHOSA values. Tickets are available at shop.maxhosa.africa/ products/mxskulturefest.

CONNECTING CULTURES, BRIDGING TIMES

Should you find yourself in the Far East, be sure to head to the West Kowloon Cultural District for the first Hong Kong International Cultural Summit. Hosted by the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority and set for 25 and 26 March, the summit aims to foster global cultural exchange and will feature more than 1 000 global art and culture leaders. The event kicks o Hong Kong’s 2024 Art Week and highlights digitalisation, innovation, and international collaborations in the cultural sector. For tickets and more information, visit culturalsummit2024.hk.

yourluxury.africa

Reference patterned lacquered dial in vibrant purple, 32mm rose gold case and matching patek.com

8 chronograph, skeleton dial, Saturn V rocket hand, lunar surface-themed decorated movement, 44.25mm black ceramic case, coated nylon fabric strap. R316 000, omegawatches.com

Santos-Dumont XL model, limited edition of 200 individually numbered timepieces, 18kt yellow gold case, beaded crown features blue sapphire cabochon, matte guilloché-effect dial, case back engraved with Alberto Santos-

FUTURE CLASSICS

THE TIMELESS ALLURE OF THESE WATCHES MAKES THEM NOT ONLY SYMBOLS OF LUXURY, BUT COLLECTABLES WITH POTENTIAL FOR INVESTMENT GROWTH

yourluxury.africa

DEBBIE HATHWAY

(calibre 1300.3), manufactured in 18kt rose gold, automatically wound, power reserve of seven days. POA, fpjourne.com

Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon Apollo

1 Cartier Bailong brooch from the Le Voyage Recommencé Collection, featuring white gold, tourmaline, yellow diamonds, and diamonds. POA, cartier.com

2. Moraglione Anastasia Collection earrings in 18kt rose gold, diamond, rose quartz, and mother of pearl. R85 990, moraglione.com

3. Bulgari Diva’s Dream necklace in 18kt rose gold set with a pear-shaped green tourmaline, a round brilliant-cut diamond and pavé diamonds. R169 800, bulgari.com

4. Van Cleef & Arpels hair clip from the Heritage Collection 1959 features yellow gold, white gold, sapphires, and peridots. POA, vancleefarpels.com

5. Fope Flex’it Panorama fully embellished bracelet, R793 500. Available at Charles Greig: Hyde Park Corner, 011 325 4477; V&A Waterfront, 021 418 4515

6. Gra Tilda’s Bow diamond ring in yellow gold. POA, gra .com

7. Fabergé X James Ganh pink opal, pearl, and ruby ring set in 18kt yellow gold. Oval ruby (0.45ct), carved pink opal (2.14ct), Akoya pearl (2.43ct), round brilliant cut white diamonds (0.82ct)

G-H SI. POA, faberge.com

S CULPTURESQU E

EXPERTLY CRAFTED SCULPTURAL JEWELLERY BLENDS CONTEMPORARY DESIGN WITH TIMELESS ELEGANCE TO MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT

COMPILED BY DEBBIE HATHWAY

4.

Guerlain

The liquid light concentrate of the RVB LAB Illuminating Face Primer in Midnight Swim leaves behind a gleaming golden film. R595, orleanscosmetics.co.za

Oil in Pop Rose Glow is a honey-infused tinted lip oil that gives a glassy, non-sticky shine. R840, arcstore.co.za

Luminizer in Warm Gold forms an ultra-fine shimmer to create an e ect of soft, radiant light on the skin. R1 075, arcstore.co.za

Westman

Atelier Super

Loaded Liquid

Drops contain multidimensional pearls that reflect light to liven up the complexion.

R1 990, skins.co.za

A CHANGE OF SEASON CALLS FOR RADIANCE BOOSTERS TO TREAT THE COMPLEXION AND GIVE YOUR SKIN AN ENVIABLE LUMINOUS GLOW

COMPILED BY INGRID WOOD

A glow is not complete without conditioned lips, and the silkytextured Chanel Baume in Dreamy White leaves them with a natural luminous finish. R860, Chanel Beauty Boutiques

A single swipe of the Sothys Illuminating Stick catches the light for the perfect shimmer. R625, orleanscosmetics.co.za

Enhancing Gommage is an exfoliator that gives luminosity an immediate boost. R735, orleanscosmetics.co.za

yourluxury.africa

NUXE Merveillance Lift

Glow Firming Radiance Cream comes in a subtle but e ective universal shade with a dual action lift-andglow e ect. R925, orleanscosmetics.co.za

Sensai Silky Bronze

Self Tanning for Body ensures a sunkissed glow in every season. R1 785, edgars.co.za

Tom Ford Soleil Blanc

Terracotta

Elemis Frangipani Monoi Salt Glow is a luxurious scented scrub that cleanses, exfoliates and seals in moisture for soft, incandescent skin. R1 130, za.elemis.com

Guerlain KissKiss Bee Glow

Gatineau Radiance

AN ELEGANT EVENING ON THE TOWN CALLS FOR A STYLISH PARADE OF COLOUR TO SUIT EVERY HOUR

NightGirl’sOut

It’s a magical time of day when the sun begins to set and all the city lights flicker. The sky changes colour, the air takes on a different charge, and there is the element of anticipation of an electric night ahead. For the true revelers this means an eight-hour party, and to ensure that those lips are suitably embellished all night long, Chanel has launched eight Rouge Allure Velvet colours to set the pace. The shades break daytime conventions – these are hues made for night owls without limits, while the exclusive white case trimmed in black is a stylish declaration all on its own.

A SLEEPLESS NIGHT AWAITS…

At MIDNIGHT , lips may be dressed in the energetic A Sienna Red (4) or A Brick Orange (8) as the allure of the night ahead grows.

From 2AM TO 3AM, the party is in full swing, and a touch-up is probably required. Vibrant and vivid hues of An Orange Red (2) and A Vibrant Fuchsia (5) capture the exuberance of the dance floor with scenes of music and laughter.

From 4AM TO 5AM, the party continues, and the night gets warmer and more intimate. It’s time to enhance the lips in spellbinding shades such as A Warm Brown (7) or A Purple (6) with its matte finish.

From 6AM TO 7AM, the night transforms into the light coolness of dawn. A new day calls for the freshness of Burnished Rosewood (1) and A Fresh Pink (3).

ABOVE:

1. A Burnished Rosewood 2. An Orange Red 3. A Fresh Pink 4. A Sienna Red

5. A Vibrant Fuchsia 6. A Purple 7. A Warm Brown 8. A Brick Orange

ENDURING Elegance

LASTING LUXURY IS EMBODIED IN THESE DESIGNER BAGS WORTH INVESTING IN NOW, AND TO BE ENJOYED FOR A VERY LONG TIME TO COME

COMPILED BY NTOKOZO MASEKO

Top handle mini model Panthère De Cartier bag. POR, Cartier Boutique Sandton City, 011 666 2800

Bulgari Serpenti mini tote bag in lizard degrade beetroot spinel and light gold nappa leather lining. R116 000, Bulgari Sandton City, 011 883 1325

A signature bag of the Carol Bouwer collection, the Lindiwe Crocodile bag in Kentucky Green. R130 000 for size 30, carolbouwerbags.com

Balmain B-Buzz 23 leather tote bag in burgundy with detachable strap. R43 320, Balmain Sandton City 010 276 0290

seven Crown gold leather bag. R13 690, thesevenstore.co

Louis Vuitton, Artycapucines 2023 by Billie Zangewa depicts her 2020 artwork, The Swimming Lesson, adorned with hand-stitched beads, metallic thread, and three monogram penguin charms. POR, louisvuitton.com

R13

The Clicks Creator Keyboard for iPhone is easy to attach and detach, compact, and lightweight, enhancing your typing speed and precision. Starts at $139, clicks.tech

With up to 84 000 movements per minute, the Oclean X Ultra AI-powered Digital Sonic Toothbrush displays time, duration, and score, ensuring a thorough clean. R3 999, ivohealth.co.za

TECH MARVELS TO RESHAPE DAILY LIVING

FROM A FUTURISTIC MOBILE PHONE TO A STRESS-BUSTING WEARABLE, GET SMART WITH THE LATEST INVESTMENT GADGETS

COMPILED BY SONY THOMAS

Developed by neuroscientists and physicians, the Apollo Neuro Stress Relief Device speaks to your nervous system through scientifically validated vibrations, improving heart rate variability (HRV) and providing control over stress. R11 997, madetothrive.co.za

A fusion of iconic fashion and cutting-edge Meta technology, the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Smart Glasses come equipped with an ultra-wide 12MP camera and discreet open-ear speakers.

R10 400 – R11 499, boldmarket.co.za

With a vivid 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x display and advanced AI processing, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra sets new industry standards for image quality. From R29 999, samsung.com/za

yourluxury.africa

The Polaroid I-2 Professional Grade Instant Camera features the sharpest lens built into a Polaroid camera, and for the first time, o ers manual controls.

495, ormsdirect.co.za

Orchestrating symphony between

&LUXURYCULTURE

SPRETTY YENDE IS A BEACON, A SOUTH AFRICAN CULTURE EXPORT WHOSE ASCENT TO BECOMING ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER OPERA SINGERS OF HER GENERATION – AND NOW A DIOR AMBASSADOR – HAS SURPASSED TRADITIONAL CULTURAL BOUNDARIES

WORDS MONALISA MOLEFE

ince making her 2010 debut at the Latvian National Theatre Micaela in Carmen, Pretty Yende has risen the ranks to become of one of the most celebrated voices in opera globally. Her journey from a small-town girl raised in Mpumalanga who confidently and comfortably took up space to eventually perform on some of the world’s most prestigious opera stages, mirrors the global reach and inclusivity that luxury brands like Dior are embracing in the 21st century. She is the World Health Organisation’s Goodwill Ambassador for Arts and Health, and was recently named one of New Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023.

As I sat down to chat to the internationally acclaimed soprano, I was immediately struck by the mellifluous timbre of her voice – a prelude to the depth and resonance of the conversation we were about to have.

Our discussion began with musings about time and celebration, with her 39th birthday being in early March. “I love birthdays – they’re special, marking the entry of souls into this world. However, I think my birthday will be quite odd because my mom passed away last year. This will be the first time I celebrate it without her,” she says. Pretty’s reflection on this personal note is touching, revealing the profound personal investment one endures in pursuit of global acclaim. It’s also a reminder that beneath the veneer of a star is a person who treasures the simple, universal joys of life.

She’ll spend her birthday in Frankfurt, “doing what I was born to do” – rehearsing for a new production of Giulio Cesare. This dedication to her craft reflects the commitment required to not only excel, but to continually renew oneself through art.

The ice is cracked, and as the conversation warms up, Pretty takes me back to her childhood, to a pivotal moment that shone the prophetic light on her future stardom. She recounts that her love for music was apparent to everyone but herself.

It was through the praise and predictions of church grandmothers and the encouraging nods of family that the seeds of her fate were sown. “When I ventured into opera and choir music, it was my mother who recognised my love for singing high notes, saying there was a visible joy in me when I did. It was largely the observations of those around me that propelled me, because as a performer, especially a live one, it’s challenging to have that extra level of selfawareness,” she recalls. Her first encounter with opera came through an unlikely source – a British Airways advertisement featuring Lakmé’s Flower Duet. It was a calling heard by a 16-year-old girl a world away from the operatic traditions of Europe. That she could not only hear, but also feel the essence of opera without any prior exposure, is a poignant reflection of her innate connection to the art. “ Those mere 10 seconds marked the first time I had encountered the entirety of the profession. I’ve recounted this story countless times since. It was a moment when something clicked inside me, igniting a desire to truly live and discover. This epiphany occurred back in 2001, yet the music from the advert still resonates in my memory. It’s a part of my essence that I’ll never forget.”

With a career marked by ‘firsts’, the singer embraces her role as a pioneer and speaks with the ease of someone who understands her role in the broader narrative of cultural exchange and representation. “Whatever we do, some part of who we are and where we come from is always with us,” she says in reference to being an African on the world stage. “We don’t only bring ourselves, but our families, our country, and our heritage. I’ve worn so many hats in terms of ambassadorships. I’ve just been appointed as an ambassador for Dior, which is a first, and I’m a Goodwill Ambassador for the World Health Organisation. My country has acknowledged my footprint on the global stage as well. Truthfully, I do not take sides. I’m an artist and that’s the privilege of being an artist. I’m a unifying bridge so that all people can be in harmony – pun intended – from whatever is going on in their lives,” she adds.

In our discussion about her career, Pretty credits the platforms that invested in her as the catalysts for her ascent. The importance of investing in future talents, particularly in the arts, is a subject close to her heart. Soon after discovering opera herself, “the Department of Education introduced opera to schools for the first time in the Eistedfford, a springboard to prepare learners for a career in the performing arts,” she remarks. Her career trajectory demonstrates the value of such investments, as these opportunities have been instrumental in shaping her into the virtuoso she is today. “If those programmes were never there, I probably would not be ‘Pretty Yende’ today. My dream, of course, is to bring back that kind of support and awareness for young people in South Africa, or the continent

“I met with MARIA GRAZIA CHIURI (Dior’s creative director) in Paris. This meeting happened after my performance at the CORONATION OF KING CHARLES III AND QUEEN CAMILLA , which marked a SIGNIFICANT TURNING POINT ”

at large. When time permits and situations allow, I’ll work to have more music education in schools, especially township schools. I remember that at my school, we didn’t even have a piano; I didn’t even know what a piano was. We used to go to the White schools to rehearse with a pianist.”

Our conversation takes an exciting turn when Pretty shares her journey to becoming an ambassador for Dior. “When I was studying at the South African College of Music and participating in competitions, I understood the importance of presentation. I would think, ‘I need a dress; it has to be a red dress.’ I instinctively knew that how I presented myself mattered because the moment begins before I even open my mouth. When I moved to a new city, I started watching Haute Couture Fashion TV, particularly Dior fashion shows. This

ABOVE & RIGHT:

For Pretty, the outfits she wears on stage are as important as the songs she sings, and her couture ensembles never fail to impress

was around 22 years ago, and I was captivated. I thought, ‘It would be amazing if, one day, I could be dressed by Dior.”

And now she is living that dream after Dior approached her with an incredible opportunity. “I met with Maria Grazia Chiuri (Dior’s creative director) in Paris. This meeting happened after my performance at the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, which marked a significant turning point. They were already aware of me, and I was delighted to discover Maria’s love for opera. We connected even more when we started speaking Italian to each other. Dior decided to collaborate with me and named me its muse. This is groundbreaking, especially for an opera singer; it’s never been done before. It’s absolutely extraordinary,” says Pretty.

It is apparent how she embodies the brand’s boldness, grace, and elegance, representing a constantly reinvented femininity. Joining the likes of Natalie Portman and Anya Taylor-Joy, Pretty’s appointment as a muse for Dior’s collections for women marks a unique convergence of high fashion’s opulence and the artistry of classical music. “I think what spoke to me most was the

elegance and femininity [of the brand]. I’m a very modest person in terms of the way I dress. I also understand whatever is on the outside should not overpower my gift, but must envelop it. Among all the fashion houses, Dior resonated with me the most,” she says. This collaboration reflects the ethos of founder Christian Dior, who, in the spring-summer line of 1950, introduced designs inspired by musical giants like Mozart, Verdi, and Debussy.

As Pretty’s career continues to soar, she does so with a pioneering spirit that recognises her role as a unifier. She reflects on her proudest career moment being the decision she made as a 16-year-old to pursue her passion for opera – a decision she made alone. This was the pivotal moment that set the foundation for what was to follow. As she looks to the future, Pretty hopes to invest in the arts in South Africa, and her role as a cultural ambassador will undoubtedly continue to influence the opera world and beyond. Her story is an inspiration, a reminder that pioneers are not just those who venture into the unknown, but those who connect us to each other, one note at a time. ■

“This is GROUNDBREAKING, especially for an OPERA SINGER; it’s never been done before”

A STYLE AND LUXURY TRAVEL CRESCENDO

What is your favourite piece from Maria Grazia Chiuri’s Dior haute couture Spring/Summer 2024 collection?

A dress that stood out for me was the yellow Miss Dior cocktail dress. With all your travels, where is home for you?

After living in Milan for a few years, I moved to Warsaw in Poland for something new and fresh after the pandemic. But home will always be Piet Retief; that’s where my heart is.

What are some of your recent travel highlights?

Tokyo, Japan, was an absolute beauty on my first visit to Asia. I enjoyed the food.

What are some of your favourite spots to stay, shop and eat at in di erent cities?

Paris is my favourite city. I love Cheval Blanc Paris and Mandarin Hotel Paris. Dining for me is best at home; no five-star restaurant beats a delicious braai in Soweto. For shopping, Milan o ers great fashion.

Can you share any behind-thescenes stories from singing at the British coronation last year?

It almost didn’t happen due to a stage accident in Vienna. I sprained my ankle, but managed to push through, even travelling from the hospital to London in a wheelchair. It was an appointment I couldn’t a ord to miss.

yourluxury.africa

yourluxury.africa

ABOVE:

The emblematic Miss Dior dress is reinvented in a bright yellow variation

LEFT:

The soprano wore a Stéphane Rolland Haute Couture gown created especially for the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, as well as a sensational diamond high jewellery set from Gra featuring more than 138 carats of yellow and white diamonds

Earth to Art

THE INAUGURAL MINESHIFT EVENT CELEBRATED THE INNOVATION OF AFRICAN JEWELLERS, ARTISTS AND MANUFACTURERS WHILE PROMOTING THE ADVANCEMENT OF BENEFICIATION ON THE CONTINENT

Africa, a land of abundant natural beauty and resources, has long been the treasure trove of the world’s most coveted minerals. Extracting these minerals through mining enables a wealth of opportunity for the continent, its economy, and its people.

Beyond mining, Africa is equally abundant in manufacturing expertise and artisanal excellence, transforming these precious minerals into superb jewellery, investment products, art, and more. Embracing this potential offers Africa the chance to elevate the value of its minerals through beneficiation.

The first MineShift event was held at the ZEITZ Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town, where guests were treated to an evening of immersive experiences. Hosted by leading refinery and beneficiator of precious metals, MetCon, and Gina White, a bespoke jewellery brand, MineShift brought together businesses, SMMEs, government, artists, and industry influencers who share in the vision of elevating Africa’s resources. Key partners included Absa, Amplify Africa, Anglo American, Brinks, the De Beers Group, StoneX and the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator.

Grant Crosse, MetCon’s managing director, emphasised the importance of a downstream economy and elevating resources before they leave our continent. “We need to believe in local value-added products so that we can bring these jobs home to Africa and support economic growth,” said Grant. He added that the work exhibited was proof that Africa can do more with its minerals. “Every product on display here is not just made in Africa; it is the embodiment of African excellence; and they are extraordinary, world class, and deserve to be celebrated alongside our miners.”

Gina White, founder of the Gina White Collection, shared insight into the impact of jewellery on the industry and the lives of those who create it. “In a world where mass production and uniformity

yourluxury.africa

often overshadow the unique and the handcrafted, these demonstrations serve as a powerful reminder of the artistry and dedication that underpin every intricate detail. As we watch the artisans at work, shaping precious metals and setting glistening stones, we are invited to appreciate not only the final creations, but also the labour of love and expertise that brings them into being,” she said.

LIVE JEWELLERY MAKING

The evening featured interactive jewellery making demonstrations. Guests could learn about the entire jewellery crafting process, and some even tried their hand at finishing a piece.

ART SHOWCASE

Guests engaged with a dazzling display of art in the form of jewellery, sculptures, and wealth products – all demonstrating the potential of Africa’s precious minerals and stones. These included pieces from BEN & Co, Bullion Mint & Refinery, De Beers Shining Light Awards, Free State, Gina White, Jack Friedman’s Treasures of Africa, Janine Binneman, MetCon, Nebü, Nic Bladen, Nkulu, Patrick Mavros, The Platinum Incubator, PlatAfrica, Platandia, Prins & Prins, StoneX, Uwe Koetter, and Vijay Shah Concepts.

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES

Every detail – from the dining menu to the artisan refreshments and special AI animated integrations – offered a unique, immersive experience, inspired by the theme Earth to Art.

100 YEARS OF PLATINUM

During the evening, the South African Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator launched the South Africa Platinum Centenary Commemoration. This is a 100-year celebration of geologist Dr Hans Merensky’s historic discovery of the Platinum Group Metals deposits in the Bushveld Igneous Complex in 1924. MineShift was more than a glamorous gathering, it was a key starting point in shifting mindsets for the future of Africa’s mineral industry, allowing all Africans to share in the riches of our land.

LEFT: Models wearing stunning pieces by Platandia, Prins & Prins, and Patrick Mavros

BELOW LEFT: Bespoke jewellery from the Gina White Collection

THE WATCHMAKERS AT PICOT & MOSS ARE THE TICKING HEART OF THE LUXURY WATCH BUSINESS, KEEPING PEOPLE’S MOST TREASURED TIMEPIECES RUNNING FOR AS LONG AS POSSIBLE. WE TRACE THE LEGACY OF THESE MASTERS OF TIME OVER ALMOST FOUR DECADES OF THE COMPANY’S EXISTENCE WORDS NTOKOZO MASEKO

SURGEONS OF TIME

ABOVE:

It was around 1980 that a young David Moss, after five miserable years as an article clerk, decided to take Picot & Moss, a dormant family business that was founded in 1919, dust it off the shelf, and use it as a launchpad to make something of his own. “If you don't enjoy getting up in the morning and you don't enjoy going to work, it’s hell. I know – I had it for five years,” he tells us on a summer afternoon at the Picot & Moss offices. “It’s only when I went to work for a man named Eddie Keizan – the late motor racing driver who started Tiger Wheel & Tyre – that I suddenly loved working and stopped hating getting up in the morning.” Little did David know that this shift in enthusiasm and search for joy would be the unsaid ethos at this company.

After getting married to Jenny Shkudsky in 1980 and finding inspiration at Tiger Wheel & Tyre, he decided to go off on his own. The family business used to sell watches and clocks, and he used this as a starting point. “I went to fairs all over the world and bought watch straps that I started to sell. Eventually I thought we should maybe look at watches,” he explains.

Almost four decades later, we visit the company’s headquarters, meeting the watchmakers who quite literally keep the Picot & Moss workshop ticking. This is one of the only certified service centre in South Africa that offers watch repairs and all levels of maintenance. “When Jenny, who is the taskmaster, and I started selling watches, one thing I insisted on was that we invest in an after service,” says David, likening its absence to owning a Ferrari and not being able to repair it. “We already had some elderly watchmakers, but decided to recruit a watchmaker in his 50s who we couldn’t even afford. His was a Swiss man named Marcel Young and was working in South Africa for Goodman Brothers, who were the kings of watch selling in the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s,” David recalls.

The late Marcel Young was a pivotal part of the Picot & Moss family

The Picot & Moss workshop is the certified after sales and repair service centre for Bulgari, Chopard, Dior, Ebel, Frederique Constant, H. Moser & Cie, Hermès, Parmigiani Fleurier, Raymond Weil, TAG Heuer, Ulysse Nardin, Victorinox, and Zenith. There, we meet what would be a motley mix of people were it not for their congruent interest in being surgeons of luxury timepieces. David had alluded to the long tenure of the majority of sta , and it doesn’t take long to witness the common pulse in the room – that of people who carry the founding spirit of enjoying what they do.

If the analogy of surgeons fits, then Marcel, who has sadly passed away, was the Chris Barnard of the space. A person who remembers him with fondness is one of the kids Marcel had suggested be unearthed and trained many years ago. Johannes ‘Joe’ Malemela’s interest in watchmaking was sparked in his hometown in Tzaneen by his mother’s love for watches. After watching her battle to find experienced watchmakers, Joe decided to open one of her favourite watches she’d discarded, using a razor blade as a makeshift tool. He wanted “to see what was happening inside it,” and a fascination with the trade took hold of him. He found out about a school in Mamelodi, Pretoria, where he studied watchmaking for three years. After working at Goodman Brothers for several years, the lure of working on TAG Heuer watches was enough to bring him over to Picot & Moss. “That was 20 years ago,” he says with a smile.

FROM FAR LEFT: David Moss, Johannes ‘Joe’ Malemela, Morkel van Tonder, Muhammad Abubakar Hussein,. BELOW: Yarrell Mulder

The rest of the team are just as impassioned, and include the newest kids on the block, both in their tender twenties, Yarrell Mulder and Calvin Tomlin, who hope to move from diagnostics to their own watchmaking desk one day. Polishers Lerato Phasha and Ellias Montoedi started at the company in the same year and have been working together in their secluded room for a decade. Muhammad Abubakar Hussein was recruited from Pakistan to join the team two years ago and specialises in quartz watches.

Morkel van Tonder, a tall gent with a quiet disposition one would expect from an operating surgeon, has been with Picot & Moss for 18 years. According to David, he’s the “dean of watchmaking,” and is known to solve complex watch issues with impressive precision. He can also craft hard-to-find parts from scratch, saving customers from having to let go of precious but old watches, whose parts are no longer widely available.

After an afternoon taking in the environment, overseeing expert watchmakers use the world’s best equipment, it’s clear that David and Jenny Moss’ has endured with the same intensity since it was rough sketched into existence. That need in the early days for a spark of enjoyment started a wildfire success story that’s withstood the fickle test of time. picotandmoss.co.za

THE POWER AND THE GLORY OF

South Africa’s most beautiful drive drive

Driving a regularity car rally requires strategy, planning, tenacity, and patience –and you need to be fully equipped to do it properly. In fact, it’s a lot like wealth and investment management. It’s clear to see why Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth has partnered with The Cape 1000 this month to bring South Africa’s most beautiful rally drive back to the Cape.

The Cape 1000 regularity car rally, first launched in 2022, is inspired by legendary tribute races from around the world, and participants compete in classic cars that were built before 1976, modern classics from between 1977 and 1996, as well as current sports models made post 1997. Among this year’s rare entries are a 1935 Bentley Derby Special, a 1958 Corvette Stingray SWC, a 1966 Sunbeam Tiger, and a 1973 Ferrari Dino.

recognised in their own right as financially independent and powerful,” she said.

Buli is a producer and consultant in the arts space who is relishing taking on a challenge she has never tried before. “I’ve always been crazy about motorsports, and the invitation from Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth to take part in a rally is a dream come true,” she says.

“By participating in The Cape 1000, we’re pushing boundaries and breaking barriers – both those that are self-imposed and those created by society.”

The four-day drive sets off from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town and makes its way through Swellendam, George, Oudtshoorn, and Hermanus before returning to the Waterfront. While most of the route is devoted to grand touring, the event organisers focused rather intently on the regularity rallying or competitive driving aspect of the rally this year.

Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth ambassadors Michelle McLean and Buli Maliza will be taking on The Cape 1000 challenge for the first time – driving a Bentley Continental GT. A Namibianborn business consultant who many may remember as Miss Universe, Michelle says the fact that a number of women will be taking part in this year’s rally is evidence of the growing financial independence of South African women. “This is a really powerful platform for women to be

She is inspired by the words of iconic Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu, who says her life changed when she realised she was good at painting. “More of us women need to know what we are strong at and what we are passionate about,” says Buli. In this spirit, Buli and Michelle initially plan to share the roles of driver and navigator, saying they will soon realise who is more suited to which role.

Sarette van den Heever, wealth director at Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth, says more and more women are beginning to actively manage their personal wealth, with a specific focus on transferring it to future generations.

Just as we are witnessing an increase in women collecting classic cars and taking part in events such as The Cape 1000, so more women are financially independent and having a say in the management of their family’s intergenerational wealth. “As entrepreneurs building their own wealth and legacies, Michelle and Buli embody the spirit of a new generation of women who we at Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth are partnering with. We can play a significant role in helping them build and preserve their wealth and ultimately leave a lasting legacy,” says Sarette.

WEALTH AND INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT BUSINESS, PRIVATE CLIENTS BY OLD MUTUAL WEALTH, IS PARTNERING WITH THE CAPE 1000 – A BEAUTIFUL YET CHALLENGING FOURDAY ROAD RALLY THAT SETS OFF FROM CAPE TOWN THIS MONTH

@PORSCHEGIRLCT

Cape Town-based Porsche collector Michelle Hambly-Grobler will be driving her third Cape 1000 – this year in a Porsche 1969 Hans Mezger 911 Turbo.

When Michelle discovered her passion for classic cars, those around her warned about going into a world that was maledominated. She soon proved them wrong. “If you go back in history, there has always been a massive female influence in some of the top car brands in the world. But there is always a perception that women are fearful of speed and not risk takers,” she says.

Fearless Michelle has taken her place in the world of motor sport and collecting because of her background in and passion for history. “My knowledge of and love for cars has been an enormous source of respect.”

She is passionate about encouraging more women to learn about classic cars and to enter a world traditionally preserved for men. She believes it goes hand-in-hand with taking charge of your own wealth planning. “South Africa has such a rich automotive industry. We need to get more women involved in purchasing their own cars and making financial decisions that affect their lives.”

The Cape 1000, brought to you by Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth, runs from 10 to 15 March.

wealthprivateclients.co.za; cape1000.com

LEFT: Michelle Hambly-Grobler, Peter Wales, Sarette van den Heever, and Michelle McLean.

UNDERSTANDING CLASSIC CAR INVESTMENT AND OWNERSHIP

SUDHIR MATAI CHATS WITH GROUP CEO OF MOTO VILLAGE, ANTONY ASHLEY, ABOUT COLLECTABLE VEHICLES AS INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Classic cars have become real alternatives to ‘traditional’ investments. The values of certain models outstrip even the best hedge funds, but how does one decide what to buy? I sat down with Antony Ashley who heads up Moto Village in Cape Town, a collectible car sales dealership and storage facility that offers international transport and collectable car finance.

IT’S BELIEVED CLASSIC CARS HAVE BECOME APPRECIATING ASSETS, AND SERIOUS INVESTORS ARE IN ON THE ACT.

IS THIS TRUE?

Buying classic cars purely for investment purposes, with no emotional attachment, is one way of doing it. In fact, there are countless blue-chip portfolio collections around the world built entirely for capital appreciation. However, there is a great deal of owner satisfaction in that one can drive and enjoy these items more than any other in your portfolio. For example, you can’t drink the wine you’ve bought as an investment, and whisky devalues if you open the bottle.

HOW DOES ONE CHOOSE A MODEL THAT WILL APPRECIATE OVER TIME?

There are a few basic principles we apply to evaluate a car’s suitability. The first is rarity, and that’s basic economics of supply and demand –the fewer units that exist, the higher the value of each. Then we look at vehicle condition: the closer a car is to the state it left the factory, the better its value. History is another factor. Cars with complete service records, invoices for work carried out, ownership documentation, a heritage certificate

confirming exact model spec, and any articles where a vehicle has been featured in the press. Racing or motorsport records also drive up value. Desirability in the current collector market is key, and this is an important one. Certain models fall into and out of vogue with time. This is where it is crucial to chat with market specialists to learn about cars that are on the up.

HOW DOES ONE MAINTAIN THE CAR’S VALUE WHILE STILL ENJOYING IT?

These vehicles, which are typically ageing, need to be treated with a certain level of care. Since the classic-car boom started about a decade ago, a cottage industry has become more important than ever to maintain these vehicles in pristine working condition. It is imperative that owners enlist proper care from people or workshops who know exactly what they are doing. Off-season storage is also very important for older cars to stay in good condition. Insuring with the correct provider is also vital. Large-scale insurance companies typically don’t understand this space, which is why we recommend a few specialist firms.

THIS ALL SEEMS ESOTERIC. SHOULD PEOPLE REALLY INVEST IN THIS SECTOR?

Of course! As with any form of investing, one needs to do their homework. If you are buying stocks, investing abroad, or buying luxury property, you’re going to enlist the services of a specialist. This is where a firm such as Moto Village comes in. Companies like ours can guide potential clients on this journey. Whether it’s a single desirable car you’ve always lusted after or an investment-grade portfolio of cars, there’s help at hand. ■

THE METEORITE HUNTERS

COSMIC ART, MECHANICAL WONDERS, AND BESPOKE PIECES CREATED AT LES ATELIERS LOUIS MOINET PAY TRIBUTE TO THE LEGACY OF THE FATHER OF HIGH-FREQUENCY TIME MEASUREMENT

WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

Icollect various treasures, not for their fiscal value but for the memory or emotion they convey. A numbered edition of Louis Moinet 1806 – Inventor of the Chronograph is among them, gifted by Louis Moinet board member Kurt Kupper at Watches & Wonders Geneva 2023. It’s a literary keepsake highlighting the French watchmaker’s conception of the first chronograph and the first highfrequency stopwatch by the Guinness World Records (certified in 2016 and 2020, respectively). It’s also a reminder of the boutique brand’s history and the craftsmanship that infuses each precious new timepiece with “a spirit, a life.”

The discovery of what Louis called a Compteur de Tierces (thirds timer), a chronograph designed to time astronomical transits, promoted a Guinness consultation. “We saw it by coincidence at an auction in Geneva 15 years ago (2008). Jean-Marie Schaller, company CEO and creative director, bid CHF50 000 for it,” says Kurt. Closer inspection revealed that the piece looked like a stopwatch, but there was no record of it in the history books. To be sure, it was disassembled and underwent countless tests before its submission to Guinness to confirm its creation in 1815. “There are hallmark stamps on the dust cover which gave an indication of time. Although the chronograph is locked away for

Sadly, when Louis passed away in 1853, production stopped, until Schaller bought the company in the early 2000s, initiating the return of Louis Moinet to its “rightful place at the top of the watchmaking pantheon,” says Kurt. Today, the boutique brand produces up to 600 limited edition or one-of-a-kind models a year.

regarding the ownership of a piece is di erent in each country – Louis Moinet adapts to respect the laws and wishes of the respective government,” says Kurt.

In September 2023, a third Guinness World Record was added to its substantial accolades for the Cosmopolis, featuring the most meteorite inserts (12) in a watch.

Louis Moinet’s unique timepieces feature materials such as 70-million-year-old fossilised palm wood in the Geograph Rainforest and a 150-million-year-old fossilised dinosaur dial in the Jurassic Mecanograph. The Sideralis Evo displays Mars, the moon, and Mercury with genuine meteorite fragments.

safekeeping, it still works. It really is a masterpiece.”

Louis Moinet fell in love with watchmaking as a child. A skilled artist and scholar, his clients included Napoleon and Thomas Je erson. His work is on display at the Ermitage in St Petersburg, the Louvre in Paris, and the Museum at the Louis Moinet Ateliers in Saint-Blaise near Neuchâtel in Switzerland.

Over two decades, Louis authored the Traite d’Horlogerie, a double-volume watchmaking encyclopedia. It inspired the Louis Moinet watch box model, handcrafted in Geneva, containing the warranty, user manual, and authentication of contents from the Russian Academy of Sciences – depending on the watch.

Each watch case bears four symbols representing its values: uniqueness, creative watchmaking, art and design, and exclusivity. Notable creations include ‘Skylink’, which incorporates cosmonaut Alexei Leonov’s space encounter relic, and ‘Dhofar’, which features a lunar meteorite dial. According to NASA, more than 50 000 meteorites have been found on Earth, primarily from shattered asteroids (99.8 percent). The remaining fraction (0.2 percent) includes Mars and moon meteorites. They contain original materials from the formation of planets billions of years ago, o ering insights into the solar system’s history. If you’re the proud owner of a Louis Moinet watch with this composition, you can wear some of that history on your wrist.

Finding them is no mean feat though.

“In Switzerland, a meteorite fragment might appear to be one of many rocks. Most of them are small, the size of a fist. But if they fall in the desert, people are likely to investigate. This is the specialised world of the meteorite hunter. The law

“In Switzerland, a METEORITE FRAGMENT might simply appear to be one of many rocks. Most of them are small, the size of a fist. But if they fall in the desert, people are likely to INVESTIGATE . This is the specialised world of the METEORITE HUNTER ”

Launched at Watches & Wonders, ‘Impulsion’ stands out for incorporating the tourbillon and chronograph in the same piece. A nod to friends Abraham-Louis Breguet and Louis Moinet – inventors of these respective complications – ‘Impulsion’ showcases the chronograph mechanism on the dial side, a world premiere.

“The decision to buy a high-end watch will always be irrational,” says Kurt. “The watch is a luxury object. Now my definition of a luxury object is it’s ridiculously expensive and you don’t need it. That means your decision to buy it anyway is an emotional one, like love. At Louis Moinet, we need to appeal to your heart with a great story.”

The result? If you’re like me, you’ll reserve the watch before you’ve even seen it. ■

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: The Astronef –a German Design Award-winner; Derrick from the Mechanical Wonders collection; the limited edition Impulsion

YOUR PIECE OF

GRECIAN PARADISE

FA NEW RESIDENTIAL PROJECT BY SOUTH AFRICAN DEVELOPERS ON SKIATHOS, GREECE, OFFERS EU RESIDENCY FOR THOSE SEEKING A VIABLE SECOND HOME OR MIGRATION OPTION

WORDS

DEBBIE HATHWAY

or almost four decades, Shirley Valentine has entertained theatre and cinemagoers with the title character’s story of turning a life of drudge in a lonely marriage into an investment in self-care and vitality. All it took was a spontaneous trip to Greece. The impact of Willy Russell’s 1986 play has not faded, nor has the draw of the Greek isles for those who yearn for an irresistible blend of laidback charm and vibrant café culture.

South African Ella Pienaar also succumbed to this appeal after a 1965 visit led to her falling head-over-heels for the island of Skiathos, its people, and their language, and ultimately the establishment of the first villa of its kind – Villa Ella. This small, mountainous island in the Sporades archipelago soon became well known to South Africans following in her footsteps. “Ella put it on the map, particularly for Capetonians, as she used to move between her Hermanus getaway, Hamewith, and Skiathos to get the best of the South African and European summers,” says Chris Immelman, Head: Pam Golding International.

A TOUCH OF HOME ABROAD

LOW RISK, THE IDEAL REWARD

Greece’s warm Mediterranean climate, desirable lifestyle, cosmopolitan cities, and vital industries have inspired many wealthy individuals and families to make this country their second home. “We see someone buying this not for pure investment. They will want to spend three months of the year there outside the peak season in July and August, or have it available for their kids wanting a getaway from studies abroad. For the rest, it will be for Airbnb. We are projecting very attractive rentability with yields between six and eight percent per annum,” says Chris. “The shoulder seasons are wonderful in Greece, and there are many restaurants and bars in the town open year-round. The airlift is good too. The international airport connects this beautiful green island to Athens, London, and Zurich, among others. Skiathos is also easily accessible from Athens, Volos, and Thessaloniki by ferry. Priced from €298 000, which secures EU residency, we think it’s brilliant value.”

The local connection continues with Pam Golding International’s recent launch of a residential project on Skiathos bolstered by a solid South African development team with previous experience in Greece. “We’ve got some strong ingredients on the island of Skiathos to say this is a good one, and South Africans are going to like it,” says Chris on combining the talents of Stratford Property Ventures, Karapanos Construction, and MWP Property Services with the award-winning real estate agency. “One buyer has already taken the top floor of one of the blocks, and they’re designing a bespoke penthouse for him.”

The Skiathos residences comprise 48 apartments under freehold title, with two bedrooms en suite, a 72sqm floor area, 12sqm balconies, dedicated parking, storerooms, a clubhouse, and a pool. “All of them have views and are within walking distance to town and the nearest beach – it’s just gorgeous,” says Chris.

SECURING

YOUR FUTURE

Greece is flagged as one of the countries attracting South African centi-millionaires in their large-scale migration towards elevated safety standards, outstanding educational prospects, resilient healthcare alternatives, and a reliable adherence to the rule of law. The inaugural Centi-Millionaire Report produced by citizenship and residency by investment experts Henley & Partners and wealth intelligence firm New World Wealth notes further incentives such as financial concerns, crime, lifestyle factors (climate, nature, and scenery), work and business opportunities, taxes, and standard of living.

If you’ve never been to Greece and are considering buying a second home there, visiting first is a good idea. Spend some time in your destination’s version of Little Venice, peoplewatching, and enjoying a meal at a seaside taverna. If nothing else, you’ll have invested in some vital self care.

Contact international@pamgolding.co.za for more information. ■

WORDS PETRA MASON I N V E S TED I N CU L T ERU

THIS YEAR, AMERICA’S BLACK HISTORY MONTH ADDED SOUTHERN AFRICAN HISTORY TO ITS LEXICON AS POWER COUPLE ALICIA KEYS AND SWIZZ BEATZ SHOWCASE THE BOLDEST AND BIGGEST ART PIECES FROM THEIR PRIVATE COLLECTION

Just recently on the West Coast of America, South African comedian Trevor Noah hosted the Grammy Awards where South African singer Tyla won Best African Music Performance. The Cape Town-founded Southern Guild Gallery opened a Los Angeles space exhibiting a solo show by South African artist Zizipho Poswa, and South-African-American painter Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi installed a lobby mural depicting the plight of black gymnasts at California’s Hammer Museum.

Meanwhile, on the East Coast at the Brooklyn Museum in New York, Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys opened on the museum's spacious ground floor level. “The show is an excerpt from their [much larger] collection. Here, the focus is on large-scale works. While the emphasis may be on the bold works displayed, I think the title Giants speaks more to the impact the show will have on the international community and the massive visibility that the sharing of this significant Black art collection in the heart of Brooklyn will make,” says Stevenson gallery director Lerato Bereng.

In 1976, Two Centuries of Black American Art, an exhibition showcasing manifestations of African American art over two centuries, made its debut at Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, Museum of Fine Arts Dallas and at the Brooklyn Museum. Nearly half a century later, on a wonderfully wintry invite-only opening night, celebrities and the art world arrived in Brooklyn for a preview of Giants, with some visitors waiting in line for up to 40 minutes. The museum’s exterior walls were lit up with the words ‘Collect, Protect, Respect’, while inside, a cosy living-room style set up provided refuge from the chill for guests as they were serenaded by a playlist curated by Swizz Beatz himself.

yourluxury.africa

OPPOSITE:

Nick Cave, Soundsuit

ABOVE (FROM TOP):

The ‘Giant Conversations’ segment of the impressive exhibition; Deborah Roberts, The Visionary; Gordon Parks, Untitled, Miami, Florida, 1966

BELOW (FROM TOP):

Kwame Brathwaite, Untitled; Esther Mahlangu, Ndebele Abstract; Jamel Shabazz, Morning Rush Hour, Brooklyn, NYC; Barkley L. Hendricks, Pon de Rock (East View); Kehinde Wiley, Femme piquée par un serpent

Showcasing artworks from close to 40 artists – including some commissioned pieces – the art on display is colossal in both stature and size, with some pieces being up to around 10 metres tall.

The couple’s ‘by the artist, for the artist, with the people’ ethos reflects their passion for cultivating and sustaining relationships with global artists and galleries to develop their mutual taste in art. Since Alicia and Swizz Beatz began collecting art more than 20 years ago, they’ve focused on supporting living artists. Art has always been a central part of the couple's love language. “We collect from the heart; buying art for us is not transactional, it's like a welcome to the family,” says Swizz Beatz, who once told Cultured magazine: “The collection started not just because we’re art lovers, but also because there are not enough people of colour collecting artists of colour.”

far more diverse and unpredictable, the importance and power of Black collectors showing their collections in public museums and not just in private homes cannot be downplayed.

Artist Kehinde Wiley, the first African American artist to paint a presidential portrait – of Barack Obama – notes that the famous couple is “normalising a love a air with art” for everyone.

Put together by the remarkable Brooklyn Museum curator Kimberli Gant, the exhibition is separated into segments. One of them, ‘Giant Conversations’, celebrates (shades of) Blackness through pictures by street photographer Jamel Shabazz, who depicts New York City from the ’80s to the present day, female henna artists by Moroccan artist Hassan Hajjaj, mixed media depicting Black youth by Deborah Roberts, and paintings by British artist Lynette Yiadom-Boakye.

“We need to be our most giant selves, to think our most giant thoughts, express ourselves in the biggest way possible, and to give ourselves permission to be giants. We want people to see themselves. We want people to be inspired. We want people to feel connected and to see the giants on whose shoulders we stand,” says Alicia. “That’s why the title of the show is Giants – the

For ‘Giant Conversations: Critiquing Society’, multimedia artist Lorna Simpson o ers a photographic triptych, Nick Cave’s textured sculptures investigate how Black men assume costumes to conceal and protect, while French painter Jerome Lagarrigue imagines collective futures and solutions, and Henry Taylor protests lack of visibility for unhoused communities.

In ‘Giant: Presence’, there is no limit to the scale of artworks seen in the paintings by Nina Chanel Abney in various animated settings, Amy Sherald’s glimpse at Baltimore’s dirt-bike culture, and paintings by Titus Kaphar and Botswana’s Meleko Mokgosi who uses full room wraparound scale to depict di erent themes throughout history.

“The importance and POWER of Black collectors showing their collections in PUBLIC museums and not just in private homes cannot be downplayed”

beartists are giants, the people are giants. We want people to see that you are also a giant, you are special, incredible, and unique.”

Signalling how the contemporary art world has changed radically and permanently from a mostly White, high-culture enterprise to something

‘On the Shoulders of Giants’ showcases works by South African Esther Mahlangu, the originator of the ‘Black is Beautiful’ movement Kwame Brathwaite, Gordon Parks (Beatz owns the largest private collection of Parks photography), Malian photographer Malick Sidibe, and Burkinabe Sanle Sory, who showcases everyday life in Africa.

No collection of this stature would be complete without iconic work by the likes of Jean-Michel Basquiat, contemporary painter Barkley L. Hendricks or Ernie Barnes.

Kimberli describes the sharp-suited A-list couple as “Hip-Hop medicis”, saying that, at the Brooklyn Museum, “we want our exhibitions to be accessible. Art isn’t exclusive. Art is for everyone.”

Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys is on until 7 July 2024. brooklynmuseum.org/ exhibitions/giants ■

OVERBERG WILDERNESS An Ode to the

NESTLED IN THE WESTERN CAPE’S OVERBERG REGION, MELOZHORI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE’S EXCLUSIVE LODGE IS A SYMPHONY OF ELEGANCE AND UNTAMED NATURAL BEAUTY

WORDS INGA SIBIYA

There is something to be said about swapping out skyscrapers for the limitless landscape and enormous skies of the bushveld, and the 2 300-hectare Melozhori Private Game Reserve does just that. Located next to Stromsvlei near the quaint town of Bonnievale and less than 200km from Cape Town, the reserve is easy to get to and hits all the right notes with its contemporary style and the untamed beauty of its surroundings.

At the lodge, there are bespoke and spaciously set out accommodation options. The recently refurbished fourbedroom en-suite Villa is perfect for families and groups looking for privacy and personal service. You’ll also find Eco-Pods designed for intimate escapes, an enticing double-level Treehouse with elevated perspective and a sense of adventure, and a pet-friendly, self-catering Cottage with its own wood-fired hot tub. Each space is a bespoke note in the symphony of Melozhori's offerings.

While there are no predators on the reserve, the Overberg is home to an intricate ecosystem, and our daily game drives were filled with sightings of lesser seen wildlife such as black-backed jackals, porcupines, Cape grysbok, kudu, nyala and more elusive species like aardvarks and bat-eared foxes. Safaris here are gentle and rhythmic, in tune with the area’s indigenous fauna and flora, and birders are spoilt with more than 128 species that hum and whistle throughout the day.

As the day wanes further, the pièce de résistance reveals itself – a sunken firepit lounge resting on the rim of a reflective pool. Here, with giraffes and zebra as our audience, we marvelled at the gradient of golds and pinks playing on the water's

OPPOSITE:

The

ABOVE:

An outdoor shower, contemporary design and passionate hosts are

the heart of this luxury stay

surface. This circular space became our gallery for morning coffees, daytime wildlife spectacles, and nights gazing at a canopy of stars that seemed so close you could almost touch them.

The suites at the Villa are a masterpiece of contemporary design, merging opulence with nature’s palette. Each bedroom has a private deck, hammock, and an outdoor shower for cooling off on balmy days.

On the culinary side, each meal was an experience crafted by chef Matthew

yourluxury.africa

Becker, who expertly executed menus that catered to each guest’s preferences. Reserve manager Lientjie Nell and her husband Coenraad, our hosts, were more than guides – they were storytellers weaving the narrative of Melozhori with an intimacy born out of genuine passion. Here, time is determined by your desires. Whether you choose to follow a safari's beat or surrender to the tranquil tempo of nature, each moment is yours. Daily walks, bike rides, or family adventures in the wilderness are easy to enjoy, and wine tasting or seasonal whale watching can be arranged nearby. There's a liberating sense of freedom and an absence of rigidity that lets you savour the Overberg and its surrounds at your own pace and personal rhythm.

As we left the reserve, we took more than memories with us: we cradled an enduring connection to a place where luxury and nature harmonise. In the Overberg's embrace, Melozhori isn't just a destination; it's a retreat where every note is composed with care, leaving an indelible melody that echoed in our hearts. melozhori.co.za ■

sunken firepit lounge surrounded by the infinity pool is the perfect setting to take in the endless bushveld views

at

CONQUERING THE ANTARCTIC ICE

MARATHON – IN TIME

LAURENT LECAMP PUTS HIMSELF – AND MONTBLANC’S GEOSPHERE O OXYGEN SOUTH POLE – TO THE TEST IN SOME OF THE MOST EXTREME CONDITIONS IMAGINABLE WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

People who don’t wear a watch and balk at the idea of dipping into cash reserves to splurge on a coveted timepiece are often bemused at the thrill I get out of writing about watchmaking and collecting. It’s a niche subject and we all know you don’t need a watch to tell time. For me though, it’s the joy of sharing the back story of these collectable pieces of varying sentimental and investment values, who is wearing them, and why. At the high end, they are objects of art and culture, and products of the wild imaginings of passionate designers, engineers, marketers, and managers. In the sports watch category, high-performing timepieces like the Montblanc Geosphere 0 Oxygen South Pole can even save lives.

In December 2023, after months of preparation, Laurent Lecamp, global MD of Montblanc’s Watch Division and an accomplished marathon and ultra-trail runner, followed his dream and set off to compete in the Antarctic Ice Marathon. The world’s southernmost marathon – reserved for adventure marathoners and ultra-athletes – is held over the classic distance of 42.195km, and he’s been talking about it since I first interviewed him more than three years ago.

a smartwatch to monitor his heart rate, average pace, and distance. Their purpose was to test the watch’s performance – with zero oxygen in the case to prevent fogging, in the most extreme reality possible – and to conquer a physical adventure totally new to them. “Due to temperature changes that affect the metal of the case and circumference of the wearer’s wrist, the watch buckle allows for fine adjustment to achieve a perfect fit. It was possible to adjust both buckles (on the titanium and textile strap) at any time,” says Laurent.

To my point about saving lives, smartwatches run on batteries, which many competitors soon discovered cannot charge in freezing temperatures. However, the mechanical Geosphere worked flawlessly throughout the three-day experience – critical for adventurers reliant on devices like these to help them survive extreme environmental conditions.

What moves him to take on this type of challenge? Passion, curiosity, spirit of adventure, and quest for discovery. This is his (and Montblanc’s) territory – running on snow and ice at 700 metres altitude, where the average windchill temperature is -20°C and strong katabatic winds can frustrate even the fittest contenders.

Laurent had company, though, having persuaded traditional alpinist and Montblanc Mark Maker Simon Messner* to race with him. No stranger to a challenge and used to uphill running in his mountaineering training regime, this was Simon’s first marathon – ever – and it was happening in temperatures that felt like -25°C to -30°C. Laurent’s goal was to finish in less than four hours in “normal” conditions. On race day, they were anything but that, and still the pair crossed the line as planned – together – in 4:29, and a highly rewarding joint seventh place.

Proudly displayed on their wrists was the Geosphere 0 Oxygen South Pole fastened with a superlight titanium bracelet for Laurent and a textile strap for Simon. Laurent also wore

With a registration fee of $20 500, it’s no surprise that the field included a few watch collectors now fascinated by the beauty and performance of this watch that they’d never heard of. It proved the perfect environment for comparison as one mechanical watch owner experienced a temperature change from 15°C inside his tent to -30°C outside – a difference of 45°C – and the horror of water droplets forming inside the watch case. The inside of the Geosphere 0 Oxygen South Pole remained pristine.

How did they survive the race in the face of such difficult conditions and a world of pain? Laurent attributes it to positive thinking and mutual support. “I’m 46. He’s 32. My grandfather always told me that everything depends on your state of mind. The way you think is the way you will make things happen. Simon is one of the world’s best alpinists, but he suffers from vertigo. He overcomes it with 100 percent focus on the climb. If he focuses on vertigo, he’ll die. That’s the mental space. It is the basis for everything.”

While his mantra is to “keep running and discovering the world”, even Laurent must slow down sometimes. He does daily breathing exercises and reads to unwind, particularly books by Austrian authors Stefan Sweig and Arthur Schnitzler. “They are very interesting – I love these stories.

the imagination.”

* Reinhold Messner, Simon’s father and a Montblanc Mark Maker, is known for making the first solo ascent of Mount Everest and repeating the exercise with Peter Habeler without supplemental oxygen. He was also the first to climb all 14 eight-thousanders without supplementary oxygen and cross Antarctica and Greenland without snowmobiles or dog sledges. His picture hangs in the food tent of the Antarctic Ice Marathon. ■

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They [ignite]

LEFT: Simon Messner (left) and Laurent Lecamp (right) cross the finish line after 42.195 gruelling kilometres

CONTEMPORARY CELLAR ICONS

THE INVESTMENT MARKET FOR FINE SOUTH AFRICAN WINE IS ON THE EXPONENTIAL UPSWING, PROPOSING ANOTHER WAY TO DIVERSIFY YOUR PORTFOLIO – AND STAY LIQUID WHILE YOU’RE AT IT

WORDS MALU LAMBERT

“We remain bullish about the value growth of South African fine wine,” comments Higgo Jacobs, Strauss & Co’s fine wine auction specialist. “We have the data to support this,” he says, referring to a paper written in conjunction with Stellenbosch University where they crunched sales figures from the last five years on the secondary market. Among the insights, the top 10 most collectable contemporary Cape wines were revealed. “This was based on their return on investment, the volume of trading and how they’ve grown from release price,” a rms Higgo. “The market has decided.”

Strauss & Co’s mid-year auction is billed to o er modern icons as well as rare vintage lots, such as the 1930 KWV Muscadel, Lanzerac Pinotage from the early ’60s, GS Cabernet Sauvignon (’66 and ’68 vintages), and more.

We take a look at the current vintages of the top four investment wines according to Strauss. While some vintages are hailed more than others, these wines are often sold out or extremely di cult to come by.

For the complete list of the top ten wines, go to yourluxury.africa

4. VIN DE CONSTANCE 2020

COLLECTOR'S TOP VINTAGES: 1986, 1987, 2017

Arguably South Africa’s most famous wine, Vin de Constance was the favourite of nobility and poets in the 18th and 19th centuries, appearing in literature from those bygone eras. The natural sweet wine was revived in 1986 after a century’s hiatus, and is once again shooting the lights out. The current vintage is priced at R1 400 on kleinconstantia.com.

3. PORSELEINBERG 2021

COLLECTOR'S TOP VINTAGES: 2012, 2018

Cultivated in the heart of the Western Cape’s Swartland from 100-percent whole bunch syrah hewn from an outcrop ribboned with blue-veined schist – hence the name ‘Porcelain Mountain’. Callie Louw tends the vines and makes the wine – and just the one at that. Comparisons have been made to Cornas and Hermitage for this ethereal yet driven syrah.

This highly-prized wine is not easily available. Please contact hello@inVINcible.wine for assistance. R750

2. KANONKOP PAUL SAUER 2020

COLLECTOR'S TOP VINTAGES: 1995, 2009, 2015

The 2015 vintage was the first South African wine to ever receive 100 points from international critic and Master of Wine, Tim Atkin. From its debut vintage in 1981, Paul Sauer is an estate blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and cabernet franc. The current vintage continues its tradition of refinement, classically Bordeaux in structure with radiant new world fruit. R925 from www.winecellar.co.za.

1. SADIE FAMILY WINES COLUMELLA 2021

COLLECTOR'S TOP VINTAGES: 2000, 2010, 2019

An eclectic, long-ageing, red blend of Mediterranean varieties grown in the Swartland. Tangy and fresh with bright red fruit flavours, all framed by 24 months of ageing in old casks. “Time is your friend on this one,” says winemaker Eben Sadie. Apply for allocation at thesadiefamily.com, or visit barkeeper.co.za to join the waitlist. R1 159

yourluxury.africa

SOUTH AFRICA A love letter to

TELL US ABOUT WHERE YOU’RE FROM?

My dad is African American, my mom is Puerto Rican, and I was born in New York. I grew up in San Francisco, which I think is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Napa Valley was in my backyard, so I visited often. In a way, wine has always been written in the stars for me. Home now is Los Angeles, but I also spend a lot of time in South Africa.

HOW DID YOUR LOVE AFFAIR WITH SOUTH AFRICA COME ABOUT? In my mind, I chose South Africa, but the truth is it chose me. It found me at a time when I thought I knew everything about wine and spirits. I thought I was already innovating by way of the companies I had worked with for more than 20 years, like LVMH and Diageo.

BORN IN NEW YORK AND LIVING IN LOS ANGELES, INGRID BEST’S LOVE AFFAIR WITH SOUTH AFRICA HAS CULMINATED IN THE LAUNCH OF IBEST WINES, AN INNOVATIVE BRAND BLENDING WINE, ART, AND CULTURE COMPILED BY NTOKOZO MASEKO

always wanted my wine to be poured in museums. The launch of IBest Wines at Southern Guild Gallery Cape Town was also surreal.

WHAT ARE YOUR BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL TO? I’m biased, but South Africa is one of my favourites. I enjoy going to La Petite Colombe in Franschhoek where food is expressed as art. There’s a gallery next door, beautiful sculptures outside, and the mountains and vineyards are like art. I also fell in love with Egypt –whoever created the pyramids taught us luxury. I love the Caribbean, and the Turks and Caicos is another place I’d say is divinely luxurious.

I first visited about five years ago with one of my friends, and I remember opening up a menu at a restaurant and seeing all the South African wines. I had travelled around the world, but I didn’t know that there was a beautiful wine region in South Africa. When I returned to launch a brand during Global Citizen, I took a few days to spend time in the wine region and that was it. I fell in love.

YOU’RE AN AVID ART COLLECTOR WITH SOME GREAT SOUTH AFRICAN ARTISTS IN YOUR COLLECTION. TELL US SOME OF THE WAYS YOU’RE INVESTED IN ART? I started collecting some years ago and I’ve been blessed to acquire incredible pieces. I like to say my first ‘big girl’ piece was a Nelson Makamo, who has since become a dear friend and advisor. I now have four Makamos in my collection, which I would say are some of my most special pieces. Along with 10 other collectors, I recently acquired work by Bisa Butler and Harmonia Rosales, which we donated to the National Portrait Museum in Washington DC, so my name is on museum walls, and that’s special because I want to be a part of art history. One thing I’m truly invested in is culture. Wine, art, and community all fall under culture.

HOW DO YOU FUSE KINSHIP BETWEEN WINE AND ART? IBest Wines is my art. We were recently asked to serve our wines on the opening night of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys’ Brooklyn exhibition. It was a dream come true because I’ve

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST TREASURED WATCHES AND JEWELLERY PIECES?

I love vintage watches and jewellery. My 1980 Oyster Perpetual is vintage, as are some of my Arpel pieces [points to a vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra yellow gold bracelet on her wrist as we speak]. I love antiquated art, and bought some vintage tapestry at the last Cape Town Art Fair.

YOU ALSO HAVE A SERIOUS LOVE OF SPAS… I’m a big spa person. We all work so hard, so visits to a spa should be a staple. The spa at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff in Johannesburg is stunning. Their massages are the best I’ve ever had.

IBest Wine’s can be purchansed at Stellenbosch Vineyards or ordered from salesorders@stellvine.co.za.

ABOVE & LEFT: Ingrid, founder of IBest Wines, has an extensive art collection that features many works by South African artists

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