Magzoid Magazine - Luxury Magazine in the Creative Space | December 2023 |
“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” Andy Warhol As the vibrant pages of Magzoid Magazine's December 2023 edition unfold, the theme 'Canvas 2023' reveals itself as a rich tapestry of inspiration and creativity—a celebration guided by the wisdom of Andy Warhol: 'They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.' Explore the transformative journey of Juhaina Edres, a visionary entrepreneur reshaping Dubai's landscape through her E-commerce skincare venture and the impactful connections forged at House of Sorority. Dive into the art world with Matt Cauchi, a Sydney-based Mixed Media abstract artist, as he shares insights into his unique blend of minimalism, Fauvism, and Abstract Expressionism.
“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.”
Andy Warhol
As the vibrant pages of Magzoid Magazine's December 2023 edition unfold, the theme 'Canvas 2023' reveals itself as a rich tapestry of inspiration and creativity—a celebration guided by the wisdom of Andy Warhol: 'They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.'
Explore the transformative journey of Juhaina Edres, a visionary entrepreneur reshaping Dubai's landscape through her E-commerce skincare venture and the impactful connections forged at House of Sorority.
Dive into the art world with Matt Cauchi, a Sydney-based Mixed Media abstract artist, as he shares insights into his unique blend of minimalism, Fauvism, and Abstract Expressionism.
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“They always say time changes th<strong>in</strong>gs, but you actually have to change <strong>the</strong>m<br />
yourself.” - Andy Warhol<br />
As <strong>the</strong> vibrant pages of <strong>Magzoid</strong> <strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong>’s <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> edition unfold, <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me<br />
‘Canvas <strong>2023</strong>’ reveals itself as a rich tapestry of <strong>in</strong>spiration and creativity—a celebration<br />
guided by <strong>the</strong> wisdom of Andy Warhol: ‘They always say time changes th<strong>in</strong>gs, but you<br />
actually have to change <strong>the</strong>m yourself.’<br />
Explore <strong>the</strong> transformative journey of Juha<strong>in</strong>a Edres, a visionary entrepreneur reshap<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Dubai’s landscape through her E-commerce sk<strong>in</strong>care venture and <strong>the</strong> impactful connections<br />
forged at House of Sorority.<br />
Dive <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> art world with Matt Cauchi, a Sydney-based Mixed Media abstract artist,<br />
as he shares <strong>in</strong>sights <strong>in</strong>to his unique blend of m<strong>in</strong>imalism, Fauvism, and Abstract Expressionism.<br />
Celebrate special days <strong>in</strong> <strong>December</strong>, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g UAE National Day, Human Rights Day,<br />
Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, fill<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> month with joy and reflection.<br />
Discover architectural marvels like Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban <strong>in</strong> Bangladesh and <strong>the</strong> Legislative<br />
Assembly <strong>in</strong> Chandigarh, where design and functionality converge seamlessly.<br />
Indulge <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> festive spirit with ‘Frosty Feasts and Cozy Retreats,’ captur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> enchant<strong>in</strong>g<br />
atmosphere of w<strong>in</strong>ter celebrations and <strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g readers to savor <strong>the</strong> warmth<br />
of <strong>the</strong> season.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> spirit of V<strong>in</strong>cent van Gogh’s wisdom, let this edition be a celebration of <strong>the</strong> true<br />
way to understand art – through a love of nature. As we explore ‘Canvas <strong>2023</strong>,’ may <strong>the</strong><br />
symphony of creativity and <strong>in</strong>novation <strong>in</strong>spire and resonate with each reader, harmoniz<strong>in</strong>g<br />
art, culture, and <strong>the</strong> spirit of collaboration.<br />
Editor <strong>in</strong> Chief<br />
Saleha Khanam<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
7
CONTENTS<br />
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
10 Coran Kizer Stone<br />
14 Dan Bullock<br />
20 Jeremy Ann<strong>in</strong>os<br />
25 Joshua Mizusawa<br />
31 Mat<strong>the</strong>w Cauchi<br />
41 Meyoco<br />
45 Marika Boniuk<br />
51 Alma Luna<br />
59 Ben Labuzzetta<br />
73 Cameron Mark<br />
SPECIAL DAY<br />
13<br />
17<br />
23<br />
29<br />
UAE National Day<br />
Christmas Day<br />
Human Rights Day<br />
New Year’s Eve<br />
EDITORIAL<br />
34<br />
Canvas <strong>2023</strong>: A Tapestry of<br />
Artistic Transcendence<br />
DIVYA CHAKRA ‘23<br />
60<br />
Celebrat<strong>in</strong>g Success: Divya Chakra<br />
<strong>2023</strong> Unveils Esteemed Indian<br />
Bus<strong>in</strong>ess Awardees <strong>in</strong> UAE<br />
8 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
CONVERSATIONS<br />
37<br />
75<br />
Juha<strong>in</strong>a Edres<br />
Nima Nabavi and Jason Seife<br />
KNOWLEDGE BASE<br />
70<br />
Navigat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Year’s End: A Guide<br />
for Artists<br />
DESIGNER’S CORNER<br />
80<br />
82<br />
84<br />
86<br />
88<br />
90<br />
93<br />
97<br />
99<br />
103<br />
104<br />
105<br />
About Time<br />
Bl<strong>in</strong>g Bow<br />
On Foot<br />
Unorthodox<br />
Lux<br />
L<strong>in</strong>dberg<br />
Toons & Manga<br />
Brand Logo<br />
Architectural Wonders<br />
Art Exhibitions & Events<br />
Featured Artwork<br />
Featured Photographs<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
9
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
10 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Brushstrokes of Animation: The Artistic Odyssey of<br />
Coran Kizer<br />
StoneArtist<br />
Coran Kizer Stone stands as a multifaceted creative force, contribut<strong>in</strong>g his talents as a Character<br />
Designer, Illustrator, Storyboard Artist, and Concept Designer <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> dynamic realms<br />
of animation and games, primarily based <strong>in</strong> California. His artistic journey is a testament to<br />
his skillful contributions to iconic projects and his <strong>in</strong>valuable impact on <strong>the</strong> visual storytell<strong>in</strong>g<br />
landscape.<br />
Coran Kizer Stone embarked on his<br />
artistic career as a Storyboard Revisionist<br />
at WB Animation, a pivotal<br />
start<strong>in</strong>g po<strong>in</strong>t that laid <strong>the</strong> foundation<br />
for his subsequent impressive trajectory.<br />
His ascent with<strong>in</strong> WB Animation saw<br />
him evolve <strong>in</strong>to a Lead Character Designer,<br />
play<strong>in</strong>g a crucial role <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> development of<br />
a Batman show. This early success marked<br />
Stone as a key contributor to <strong>the</strong> visual identity<br />
of animated series, showcas<strong>in</strong>g his ability<br />
to br<strong>in</strong>g characters to life and contribute<br />
to <strong>the</strong> overall storytell<strong>in</strong>g process.<br />
Follow<strong>in</strong>g this, Stone’s creative journey<br />
expanded as he worked on <strong>the</strong> Emmy<br />
Award-w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g “Transformers Prime” cartoon,<br />
leav<strong>in</strong>g an <strong>in</strong>delible mark on <strong>the</strong> series<br />
his talents to various prom<strong>in</strong>ent entities <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
enterta<strong>in</strong>ment <strong>in</strong>dustry. His diverse portfolio<br />
<strong>in</strong>cludes collaborations with Sp<strong>in</strong>master,<br />
Taletale Games, BBC Animation, SideShow<br />
Collectibles, and DreamWorks, highlight<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> breadth of his expertise and <strong>the</strong> versatility<br />
of his creative contributions.<br />
As a creative professional with a rich<br />
background <strong>in</strong> animation and gam<strong>in</strong>g, Coran<br />
Kizer Stone cont<strong>in</strong>ues to make significant<br />
strides, shap<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> visual landscapes of<br />
beloved franchises. His journey, from storyboard<br />
revisionist to lead character artist,<br />
is a testament to his dedication, talent, and<br />
impact on <strong>the</strong> storytell<strong>in</strong>g elements that captivate<br />
audiences <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> realms of animation<br />
and games.<br />
through his <strong>in</strong>volvement <strong>in</strong> storyboards. His<br />
expertise <strong>in</strong> visual storytell<strong>in</strong>g and character<br />
design was fur<strong>the</strong>r solidified as he transitioned<br />
<strong>in</strong>to a Full-Time Storyboard Artist role<br />
at Film Roman, where he contributed to <strong>the</strong><br />
animated series “Ultimate Spider-Man.”<br />
Notably, Stone assumed <strong>the</strong> role of Lead<br />
Character Artist at Marvel Disney Animation<br />
for “Marvel’s Spider-Man,” a testament to his<br />
grow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>fluence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> animation <strong>in</strong>dustry.<br />
His work on this project showcased not<br />
only his artistic prowess but also his ability<br />
to capture <strong>the</strong> essence of iconic characters<br />
with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Marvel universe, contribut<strong>in</strong>g to<br />
<strong>the</strong> success and visual appeal of <strong>the</strong> series.<br />
Coran Kizer Stone’s artistic footpr<strong>in</strong>t extends<br />
beyond animation studios, hav<strong>in</strong>g lent<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
11
PICTURE STORY<br />
PHOTO BY JUSDEVOYAGE ON UNSPLASH<br />
12 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
UAE NATIONAL DAY<br />
A CANVAS OF UNITY AND HERITAGE<br />
SPECIAL DAY<br />
As <strong>the</strong> United Arab Emirates proudly<br />
celebrates its National Day on <strong>December</strong><br />
2nd, <strong>the</strong> artistic community<br />
becomes a vital brushstroke <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
vibrant canvas of national unity and heritage.<br />
This day serves as a poignant rem<strong>in</strong>der of<br />
<strong>the</strong> rich cultural tapestry that def<strong>in</strong>es <strong>the</strong><br />
UAE, and artists play a pivotal role <strong>in</strong> captur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
and preserv<strong>in</strong>g this essence through<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir creative expressions.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> bustl<strong>in</strong>g art scene of <strong>the</strong> UAE, National<br />
Day becomes a muse for pa<strong>in</strong>ters,<br />
sculptors, and multimedia artists alike. Traditional<br />
elements such as <strong>the</strong> national flag,<br />
traditional attire, and iconic landmarks f<strong>in</strong>d<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir way onto canvases, each stroke tell<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a story of pride and resilience. Calligraphy,<br />
a revered art form <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> region, is often em-<br />
ployed to script verses that resonate with <strong>the</strong><br />
values and aspirations of <strong>the</strong> nation.<br />
Galleries across <strong>the</strong> Emirates host exhibitions<br />
dedicated to <strong>the</strong> National Day, showcas<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a diverse range of artworks that reflect<br />
<strong>the</strong> unity <strong>in</strong> diversity that def<strong>in</strong>es this<br />
dynamic nation. From contemporary <strong>in</strong>terpretations<br />
to classic representations, <strong>the</strong> art<br />
on display mirrors <strong>the</strong> multifaceted identity<br />
of <strong>the</strong> UAE, pay<strong>in</strong>g homage to its past while<br />
embrac<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>novations of <strong>the</strong> present.<br />
Artists take this opportunity to explore<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>mes of progress and modernization,<br />
encapsulat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> spirit of <strong>the</strong> UAE’s journey<br />
from a union of emirates to a global<br />
hub of culture and <strong>in</strong>novation. Through <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
creations, <strong>the</strong>y contribute to a collective visual<br />
narrative that celebrates <strong>the</strong> nation’s<br />
achievements and envisions its future.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> spirit of unity, collaboration often<br />
takes center stage, with artists from different<br />
backgrounds com<strong>in</strong>g toge<strong>the</strong>r to create<br />
pieces that transcend <strong>in</strong>dividual perspectives<br />
and echo <strong>the</strong> harmonious melody of <strong>the</strong><br />
UAE. The result is a magnificent artistic celebration,<br />
a testament to <strong>the</strong> endur<strong>in</strong>g beauty<br />
of a nation pa<strong>in</strong>ted with <strong>the</strong> colors of diversity<br />
and shared aspirations. On this National<br />
Day, <strong>the</strong> art world stands as a testament to<br />
<strong>the</strong> UAE’s rich heritage, reflect<strong>in</strong>g its dynamic<br />
spirit through <strong>the</strong> strokes of creativity and<br />
<strong>the</strong> colors of unity.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
13
Despite his modest description of be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><br />
“worst professional social media creator,” Dan<br />
Bullock’s artistic journey is marked by notable<br />
achievements and recognition. His work was<br />
featured <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> prestigious International Artist<br />
<strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong>, earn<strong>in</strong>g a spot <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir “Master<br />
Showcase” <strong>in</strong> <strong>December</strong> 2022. This acknowledgment<br />
showcases his proficiency and presence<br />
on a global artistic platform.<br />
Dan’s artistic prowess transcends publication<br />
accolades; he has exhibited his work <strong>in</strong>ternationally,<br />
leav<strong>in</strong>g an <strong>in</strong>delible mark on <strong>the</strong><br />
art scenes of New York City and London. His<br />
participation <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Five and Under exhibition<br />
at Arcadia Contemporary <strong>in</strong> NYC and recognition<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Portrait Society of America with<br />
a Certificate of Excellence for “Say What You<br />
Will” dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> 24th International Portrait Competition<br />
attests to his impact <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> art world.<br />
The scope of Dan Bullock’s artistic endeavors<br />
extends beyond traditional exhibitions. His<br />
work was showcased <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> “Emerg<strong>in</strong>g Artists:<br />
The Auction” exhibition <strong>in</strong> Shoreditch, London,<br />
and he received recognition as a Jack Meier<br />
Gallery Representation Award Competition F<strong>in</strong>alist<br />
for ‘Len’ <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Art Muse Contest. These<br />
experiences underscore Dan’s ability to navigate<br />
and make a mark <strong>in</strong> both traditional and<br />
contemporary art spaces.<br />
His art has not only been featured <strong>in</strong> publications<br />
like Artistank Catalogue Issue #2 - “I<br />
Am Not Famous Because I Am Not Dead” but<br />
also made its way <strong>in</strong>to Buzzfeed’s ‘100 Facebook<br />
Portraits,’ curated by Didi Menendez of<br />
Poets and Artists <strong>in</strong> 2017.<br />
Dan Bullock’s artistic journey is a testament<br />
to <strong>the</strong> complexity and depth of <strong>the</strong> creative<br />
process. His ability to rebel aga<strong>in</strong>st <strong>the</strong> expected,<br />
coupled with a commitment to perfectionism<br />
and a loose, dist<strong>in</strong>ctive style, positions him<br />
as an artist whose work not only challenges<br />
norms but also resonates across diverse artistic<br />
platforms and spaces. As he cont<strong>in</strong>ues to<br />
navigate <strong>the</strong> contradictions of his artistic identity,<br />
Dan Bullock’s presence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> art world<br />
promises to be both <strong>in</strong>trigu<strong>in</strong>g and <strong>in</strong>fluential.<br />
14 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Dan<br />
Bullock<br />
REBELLING WITH BRUSHSTROKES: UNVEILING THE ARTISTIC<br />
ODYSSEY OF DAN BULLOCK<br />
Dan Bullock, a UK-born artist, emerges as a portrait pa<strong>in</strong>ter and world wanderer<br />
with a penchant for avoid<strong>in</strong>g w<strong>in</strong>ter and a penchant for procrast<strong>in</strong>ation.<br />
A self-proclaimed rebel aga<strong>in</strong>st his realistic nature, Dan is <strong>in</strong> a constant<br />
pursuit of <strong>the</strong> elusive balance between perfectionism and a loose, almost<br />
impossible artistic style. He’s not just an artist; he’s a f<strong>in</strong>ger pa<strong>in</strong>ter, an accidental<br />
TikTokker, and a walk<strong>in</strong>g contradiction, embrac<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> complexities<br />
of his creative identity.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
15
PICTURE STORY<br />
PHOTO BY LUCAS GEORGE WEND ON UNSPLASH<br />
16 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
CHRISTMAS DAY<br />
A PALETTE OF FESTIVE ARTISTRY<br />
SPECIAL DAY<br />
As <strong>the</strong> world wraps itself <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
warmth of Yuletide celebrations, <strong>the</strong><br />
art community takes center stage,<br />
<strong>in</strong>fus<strong>in</strong>g Christmas Day with a rich<br />
tapestry of festive artistry. <strong>December</strong> 25th is<br />
not just a day of gift-giv<strong>in</strong>g and merriment;<br />
it’s a canvas upon which artists pa<strong>in</strong>t expressions<br />
of joy, wonder, and <strong>the</strong> timeless magic<br />
of <strong>the</strong> season.<br />
In galleries and art spaces around <strong>the</strong><br />
globe, Christmas-<strong>the</strong>med exhibitions come<br />
to life, showcas<strong>in</strong>g a dazzl<strong>in</strong>g array of pieces<br />
that capture <strong>the</strong> essence of <strong>the</strong> holiday.<br />
Traditional nativity scenes and depictions of<br />
classic Christmas stories m<strong>in</strong>gle with contemporary<br />
<strong>in</strong>terpretations, offer<strong>in</strong>g viewers<br />
a visual feast that transcends time and tradition.<br />
The vibrant hues of red and green dom<strong>in</strong>ate<br />
<strong>the</strong>se festive artworks, creat<strong>in</strong>g a<br />
sensory experience that mirrors <strong>the</strong> festive<br />
decor adorn<strong>in</strong>g homes and streets. Artists<br />
experiment with textures and mediums, from<br />
<strong>in</strong>tricately detailed oil pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs to whimsical<br />
sculptures crafted from recycled materials,<br />
each piece contribut<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> kaleidoscope<br />
of holiday cheer.<br />
Street art becomes a liv<strong>in</strong>g advent calendar<br />
as murals and <strong>in</strong>stallations pop up, transform<strong>in</strong>g<br />
urban landscapes <strong>in</strong>to enchant<strong>in</strong>g<br />
w<strong>in</strong>ter wonderlands. Giant snowflakes, glow<strong>in</strong>g<br />
re<strong>in</strong>deer, and larger-than-life ornaments<br />
become part of <strong>the</strong> public art narrative, <strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g<br />
passersby to pause and immerse <strong>the</strong>mselves<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> magic of <strong>the</strong> season.<br />
Christmas Day also <strong>in</strong>spires artists to explore<br />
<strong>the</strong>mes of love, generosity, and toge<strong>the</strong>rness.<br />
Portraits of families ga<strong>the</strong>red around<br />
<strong>the</strong> Christmas tree, scenes of bustl<strong>in</strong>g holiday<br />
markets, and pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs captur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><br />
quiet beauty of snow-covered landscapes<br />
become visual affirmations of <strong>the</strong> shared<br />
human experience dur<strong>in</strong>g this special time<br />
of year.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> studio, artists may f<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong>spiration <strong>in</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> tw<strong>in</strong>kl<strong>in</strong>g lights, <strong>the</strong> scent of p<strong>in</strong>e, or <strong>the</strong><br />
sound of carolers <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> streets. They translate<br />
<strong>the</strong>se sensory elements <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong>ir work,<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g pieces that resonate with <strong>the</strong> universal<br />
emotions stirred by <strong>the</strong> holiday season.<br />
As Christmas Day unfolds, <strong>the</strong> art world<br />
becomes a sanctuary of festive expression,<br />
offer<strong>in</strong>g a collective celebration that transcends<br />
cultural boundaries. Through <strong>the</strong><br />
language of art, we f<strong>in</strong>d a shared space<br />
where <strong>the</strong> spirit of Christmas comes alive, rem<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g<br />
us that, like a beautifully composed<br />
pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong> magic of <strong>the</strong> season is best enjoyed<br />
when shared with o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />
Christmas<br />
25 TH DECEMBER<br />
DAY<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
17
Dance<br />
Pixel<br />
This production seamlessly blends hiphop<br />
dance with state-of-<strong>the</strong>-art digital projection.<br />
Curated by Compagnie Käfig, <strong>the</strong><br />
event is supported by The Embassy of<br />
France, The French Institute <strong>in</strong> India, Alliance<br />
Française India, and Aaron Fernandes<br />
Enterta<strong>in</strong>ment on <strong>December</strong> 19, <strong>2023</strong>, at D<strong>in</strong>anath<br />
Mangeshkar Kala Mandir.<br />
Bards Of South<br />
Curated by Mayuri Upadhya, this showcase<br />
of traditional South Indian art forms<br />
pays homage to Mo<strong>the</strong>r Nature through Yakshagana,<br />
Kathakali, Choliattam, and Pandimelam<br />
on <strong>December</strong> 19, <strong>2023</strong>, at The Arena<br />
at Nagalli Hills Ground.<br />
Theatre<br />
Don Quixote: A Bharatanatyam-Theatre<br />
Production<br />
Curated by Geeta Chandran, Sheejith<br />
Krishna’s ‘Don Quixote’ comb<strong>in</strong>es poetry,<br />
music, dance, and <strong>the</strong>atre on <strong>December</strong> 22,<br />
<strong>2023</strong>, at The Arena at Nagalli Hills Ground.<br />
Jump<br />
Curated by Quasar Thakore Padamsee,<br />
this rooftop performance explores <strong>the</strong> collision<br />
of two worlds on <strong>December</strong> 19-22,<br />
<strong>2023</strong>, at Multi-Level Park<strong>in</strong>g Terrace.<br />
The Land Of Mea Lilo<br />
A family-friendly play curated by Quasar<br />
Thakore Padamsee on <strong>December</strong> 22, <strong>2023</strong>,<br />
at The Foundry, Old GMC Complex.<br />
Visual Arts and Craft<br />
Bamboo: A Way Of Life<br />
Curated by Sandeep Sangaru, this exhibition<br />
at Samba Square showcases bamboo<br />
as an <strong>in</strong>herent component of life <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Nor<strong>the</strong>ast<br />
from <strong>December</strong> 15 to 23, <strong>2023</strong>.<br />
Crafted Expressions: Embodied<br />
Traditions In The Indian Perform<strong>in</strong>g Arts<br />
Curated by Anjana Somany, this exhibition<br />
at Azad Maidan celebrates <strong>the</strong> fusion<br />
between craft and <strong>the</strong> perform<strong>in</strong>g arts from<br />
<strong>December</strong> 15 to 23, <strong>2023</strong>.<br />
HOLY FLUX! Rituals for Deconsecration<br />
Curated by The Packet, this project at<br />
ESG Courtyard <strong>in</strong>vites visitors to reimag<strong>in</strong>e<br />
<strong>the</strong> sacred <strong>in</strong> contemporary times from <strong>December</strong><br />
15 to 23, <strong>2023</strong>.<br />
The official hashtag for <strong>the</strong> 8th Serendipity<br />
Arts Festival is #Cometoge<strong>the</strong>ratSAF. To<br />
learn more about <strong>the</strong> festival and register for<br />
free, visit www.serendipityartsfestival.com.<br />
18 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
UAE<br />
THE <strong>2023</strong> EDITION OF SERENDIPITY<br />
ARTS FESTIVAL’S PROGRAMMING<br />
REIMAGINES FOLK AND MARRIES<br />
TRADITIONAL WITH CONTEMPORARY<br />
T<br />
he eagerly anticipated sixth physical<br />
edition of <strong>the</strong> Serendipity Arts Festival,<br />
tak<strong>in</strong>g place from <strong>December</strong> 15<br />
to <strong>December</strong> 23 <strong>in</strong> Panjim, Goa, promises<br />
a mesmeriz<strong>in</strong>g fusion of tradition and contemporary<br />
creativity. This year’s program<br />
showcases over 150 events, featur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><br />
works of more than 300 artists, n<strong>in</strong>e curators,<br />
and approximately 15 special curators. With<br />
around 15 commissioned works, <strong>the</strong> festival<br />
explores various artistic practices and creations<br />
through a unique lens.<br />
In addition to <strong>the</strong> rich programm<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong><br />
festival has unveiled a captivat<strong>in</strong>g video that<br />
encapsulates <strong>the</strong> spirit of South Asia’s most<br />
significant multidiscipl<strong>in</strong>ary festival. The artistic<br />
montage sets <strong>the</strong> tone for <strong>the</strong> sixth edition,<br />
offer<strong>in</strong>g viewers a visual journey of <strong>the</strong><br />
convergence of people, craft, and creativity,<br />
accessible on YouTube.<br />
The perform<strong>in</strong>g arts and crafts sections<br />
of <strong>the</strong> <strong>2023</strong> festival promise to be highlights:<br />
Perform<strong>in</strong>g Arts<br />
Music<br />
An Even<strong>in</strong>g of Serendipity with Zakir Hussa<strong>in</strong><br />
and Friends<br />
Renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussa<strong>in</strong><br />
leads an ensemble featur<strong>in</strong>g exceptional talents.<br />
Curated by Zub<strong>in</strong> Balaporia, <strong>the</strong> event<br />
is scheduled for <strong>December</strong> 15, <strong>2023</strong>, at The<br />
Arena at Nagalli Hills Ground.<br />
River Raag<br />
Conceptualized by Shubha Mudgal, this<br />
unique sunset cruise features classical performances<br />
curated by Bickram Ghosh and<br />
Ricky Kej. Runn<strong>in</strong>g from <strong>December</strong> 15 to 23,<br />
<strong>2023</strong>, at Santa Monica Jetty.<br />
Bollyjazz<br />
The band Bollyjazz, curated by Shyamant<br />
Behal, presents an <strong>in</strong>novative blend of H<strong>in</strong>di<br />
film tunes and Jazz on <strong>December</strong> 17, <strong>2023</strong>,<br />
at The Arena at Nagalli Hills Ground.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
19
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
20 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Brushstrokes of Gam<strong>in</strong>g Mastery: The Artistic Odyssey of<br />
Jeremy Ann<strong>in</strong>osArtist<br />
Jeremy Ann<strong>in</strong>os, an accomplished illustrator based <strong>in</strong> Los Angeles, has made a significant<br />
mark on <strong>the</strong> world of gam<strong>in</strong>g through his role as an Illustrator at Riot Games s<strong>in</strong>ce February<br />
2019. His journey <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> realm of game design began with an <strong>in</strong>ternship dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> summer<br />
of 2018, where he contributed to Champion Concept development—a pivotal experience that<br />
laid <strong>the</strong> foundation for his subsequent impactful contributions to <strong>the</strong> gam<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>dustry.<br />
Ann<strong>in</strong>os’s artistic prowess truly came<br />
to <strong>the</strong> fore as he took on <strong>the</strong> role of<br />
Illustrator for League of Legends<br />
(LoL) Splash, a visually strik<strong>in</strong>g and<br />
crucial aspect of <strong>the</strong> game’s design. From<br />
2019 to <strong>2023</strong>, he brought to life <strong>the</strong> characters<br />
and worlds of LoL through his illustrations,<br />
contribut<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> immersive and<br />
visually captivat<strong>in</strong>g environment that players<br />
have come to love and appreciate.<br />
The depth of Ann<strong>in</strong>os’s skills extends beyond<br />
<strong>the</strong> realm of LoL, as he currently engages<br />
<strong>in</strong> both Concept and Illustration work<br />
on VALORANT. This dual role showcases his<br />
versatility and adaptability as an artist, seamlessly<br />
transition<strong>in</strong>g between different projects<br />
and genres with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> gam<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>dustry.<br />
VALORANT, Riot Games’ tactical first-person<br />
shooter, has garnered widespread acclaim<br />
for its engag<strong>in</strong>g gameplay and captivat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
visuals, with Ann<strong>in</strong>os undoubtedly play<strong>in</strong>g a<br />
crucial part <strong>in</strong> shap<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> aes<strong>the</strong>tic identity<br />
of this highly popular title.<br />
Ann<strong>in</strong>os’s tenure at Riot Games is a testament<br />
not only to his artistic talent but also<br />
to his commitment to <strong>the</strong> gam<strong>in</strong>g community.<br />
By work<strong>in</strong>g on iconic titles like League of<br />
Legends and VALORANT, he has become a<br />
driv<strong>in</strong>g force <strong>in</strong> shap<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> visual narratives<br />
that resonate with millions of players worldwide.<br />
His illustrations are more than just images;<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are immersive experiences that<br />
enhance <strong>the</strong> storytell<strong>in</strong>g and gam<strong>in</strong>g experience<br />
for <strong>the</strong> audience.<br />
Beyond <strong>the</strong> pixels and polygons, Ann<strong>in</strong>os’s<br />
work reflects a deep understand<strong>in</strong>g of<br />
character design, composition, and visual<br />
storytell<strong>in</strong>g. His contributions extend beyond<br />
<strong>the</strong> virtual realm, leav<strong>in</strong>g a last<strong>in</strong>g impact on<br />
<strong>the</strong> gam<strong>in</strong>g culture and community. As an<br />
Illustrator at Riot Games, Jeremy Ann<strong>in</strong>os<br />
cont<strong>in</strong>ues to be a creative force, br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g<br />
imag<strong>in</strong>ation to life and leav<strong>in</strong>g an <strong>in</strong>delible<br />
mark on <strong>the</strong> evolv<strong>in</strong>g landscape of video<br />
game artistry. His journey from <strong>in</strong>tern to a<br />
key contributor underscores <strong>the</strong> transformative<br />
power of artistic passion and skill with<strong>in</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> dynamic world of gam<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
21
PICTURE STORY<br />
PHOTO BY MORITZ MENTGE ON UNSPLASH<br />
22 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY<br />
ILLUMINATING JUSTICE THROUGH ART<br />
SPECIAL DAY<br />
On Human Rights Day, <strong>the</strong> art world<br />
becomes a powerful ally <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> ongo<strong>in</strong>g<br />
pursuit of justice, equality,<br />
and human dignity. Artists around<br />
<strong>the</strong> globe wield <strong>the</strong>ir brushes, pens, and<br />
creative prowess to illum<strong>in</strong>ate <strong>the</strong> press<strong>in</strong>g<br />
issues surround<strong>in</strong>g human rights, <strong>in</strong>fus<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir works with profound messages that demand<br />
attention and reflection.<br />
The canvas becomes a battlefield for social<br />
change as artists courageously confront<br />
topics such as discrim<strong>in</strong>ation, censorship,<br />
and systemic <strong>in</strong>justice. Through evocative<br />
pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs, sculptures, and <strong>in</strong>stallations, <strong>the</strong>y<br />
challenge <strong>the</strong> status quo, foster<strong>in</strong>g empathy<br />
and understand<strong>in</strong>g. Each stroke of <strong>the</strong> brush<br />
becomes a call to action, urg<strong>in</strong>g viewers to<br />
contemplate <strong>the</strong>ir role <strong>in</strong> shap<strong>in</strong>g a more equitable<br />
world.<br />
Artists often collaborate with human rights<br />
organizations, us<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir talents to amplify<br />
<strong>the</strong> voices of <strong>the</strong> marg<strong>in</strong>alized and disenfranchised.<br />
These collaborations result <strong>in</strong><br />
powerful exhibitions that serve as both a mirror<br />
and a catalyst for societal transformation.<br />
The gallery space transforms <strong>in</strong>to a forum for<br />
dialogue, where visitors are confronted with<br />
<strong>the</strong> stark realities of <strong>the</strong> human experience.<br />
One of <strong>the</strong> remarkable aspects of art on<br />
Human Rights Day is its ability to transcend<br />
language barriers. Artists communicate<br />
complex issues through visual narratives<br />
that resonate universally. A photograph captur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a moment of protest, a mural depict<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> struggle for freedom, or a sculpture<br />
symboliz<strong>in</strong>g resilience—all <strong>the</strong>se forms of<br />
artistic expression become a common language,<br />
foster<strong>in</strong>g a global conversation on<br />
human rights.<br />
Human Rights Day <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> art world is not<br />
just a day of reflection; it’s a day of action. Art<br />
<strong>in</strong>spires change by challeng<strong>in</strong>g preconceptions<br />
and push<strong>in</strong>g boundaries. It encourages<br />
viewers to question, engage, and, most<br />
importantly, to empathize. As galleries open<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir doors to exhibitions centered on human<br />
rights, <strong>the</strong> art community reaffirms its commitment<br />
to be<strong>in</strong>g a driv<strong>in</strong>g force <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> fight<br />
for a more just and compassionate world.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
23
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
24 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Harmony <strong>in</strong> Hues: The Artistic Journey of<br />
Joshua Mizusawa Artist<br />
Joshua Mizusawa, an artist hail<strong>in</strong>g from Albuquerque, New Mexico, has seamlessly woven<br />
a tapestry of cultural diversity, personal passion, and artistic mastery <strong>in</strong>to his creative journey.<br />
From <strong>the</strong> early days of sketch<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> college-ruled notebooks, where people, aliens, and<br />
robots came to life <strong>in</strong> his imag<strong>in</strong>ation, Mizusawa’s artistic prowess has evolved <strong>in</strong>to a mature<br />
and deliberate exploration of identity and aes<strong>the</strong>tic fusion.<br />
Rooted <strong>in</strong> his experience as <strong>the</strong><br />
fourth child of a mixed-race family,<br />
with both Japanese and Hispanic<br />
heritage, Mizusawa’s upbr<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />
Albuquerque provided a rich cultural backdrop.<br />
This fusion of traditions, evident <strong>in</strong><br />
moments like enjoy<strong>in</strong>g pozole at Christmas<br />
or relish<strong>in</strong>g a bowl of perfectly steamed rice<br />
at breakfast, forms <strong>the</strong> foundation of his artistic<br />
<strong>in</strong>spiration. Mizusawa sees his art as a<br />
vehicle not only for self-expression but as a<br />
harmoniz<strong>in</strong>g force, seamlessly merg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><br />
vibrant colors of his hometown with <strong>the</strong> m<strong>in</strong>imalist<br />
aes<strong>the</strong>tics <strong>in</strong>tr<strong>in</strong>sic to Japanese art.<br />
Mizusawa draws <strong>in</strong>spiration from a diverse<br />
array of artistic <strong>in</strong>fluences, from Hokusai’s<br />
timeless “36 Views of Mount Fuji” to <strong>the</strong><br />
contemporary pop culture-<strong>in</strong>fused f<strong>in</strong>esse of<br />
Takashi Murakami. These <strong>in</strong>fluences have<br />
shaped his appreciation for good design,<br />
skillful execution, and bold creativity, elements<br />
that are palpable <strong>in</strong> his current artistic<br />
style.<br />
Characterized by smooth l<strong>in</strong>es, mean<strong>in</strong>gful<br />
colors, and m<strong>in</strong>imal shapes, Mizusawa’s<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
work exudes simplicity and impact. His pieces,<br />
crafted primarily with fluid matte acrylics,<br />
<strong>in</strong>ks, and Japanese brush pens, reflect<br />
a commitment to creat<strong>in</strong>g a sense of calm<br />
that seamlessly <strong>in</strong>tegrates <strong>in</strong>to any space.<br />
Mizusawa’s art is more than just visual; it is<br />
a deliberate representation of his journey, a<br />
harmonious blend of diverse <strong>in</strong>fluences and<br />
a celebration of identity.<br />
While hold<strong>in</strong>g a B.A. degree from <strong>the</strong><br />
University of New Mexico, Mizusawa’s focus<br />
is squarely on advanc<strong>in</strong>g his art career.<br />
Specializ<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> portraiture and realism, he<br />
rema<strong>in</strong>s committed to learn<strong>in</strong>g and evolv<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Currently explor<strong>in</strong>g traditional Japanese<br />
woodblock pr<strong>in</strong>ts and tattoos, as well as<br />
experiment<strong>in</strong>g with digital mediums, Mizusawa<br />
adapts to <strong>the</strong> ever-chang<strong>in</strong>g artistic<br />
landscape. Each day becomes a canvas<br />
for practice, learn<strong>in</strong>g, and <strong>the</strong> creation of<br />
art that is both mean<strong>in</strong>gful and beautiful, a<br />
testament to Mizusawa’s unwaver<strong>in</strong>g dedication<br />
to his craft and cont<strong>in</strong>uous artistic<br />
growth.<br />
25
PICTURE STORY<br />
PHOTO BY GABRIEL DALTON ON UNSPLASH<br />
28 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
NEW YEAR’S EVE<br />
A CANVAS OF REFLECTION AND RENEWAL<br />
SPECIAL DAY<br />
As <strong>the</strong> clock strikes midnight on New<br />
Year’s Eve, <strong>the</strong> world collectively<br />
pauses to reflect on <strong>the</strong> canvas of<br />
time that is about to turn. For <strong>the</strong> art<br />
community, this moment holds particular significance,<br />
<strong>in</strong>spir<strong>in</strong>g a myriad of creative expressions<br />
that capture <strong>the</strong> essence of both<br />
reflection and renewal.<br />
Artists often turn to <strong>the</strong>ir canvases to encapsulate<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tricate dance between <strong>the</strong><br />
past and <strong>the</strong> future. Pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs may depict<br />
scenes of nostalgia, represent<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> experiences<br />
and lessons of <strong>the</strong> year gone by. The<br />
strokes of <strong>the</strong> brush become a visual diary,<br />
tell<strong>in</strong>g a story of growth, resilience, and <strong>the</strong><br />
beauty found <strong>in</strong> both triumphs and tribulations.<br />
New Year’s Eve, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> art world, becomes<br />
a celebration of <strong>the</strong> transformative power of<br />
creativity. Sculptors may craft symbolic figures<br />
that embody <strong>the</strong> spirit of renewal, us<strong>in</strong>g<br />
form and structure to convey <strong>the</strong> idea of<br />
shedd<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> old and embrac<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> new.<br />
Installations <strong>in</strong> public spaces may serve as<br />
<strong>in</strong>teractive reflections, allow<strong>in</strong>g viewers to<br />
participate <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> act of lett<strong>in</strong>g go and welcom<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> unknown.<br />
Galleries often curate special exhibitions<br />
<strong>the</strong>med around <strong>the</strong> transition to a new year.<br />
These shows feature works that explore <strong>the</strong><br />
concept of time, metamorphosis, and <strong>the</strong> cyclical<br />
nature of creativity. Artists experiment<br />
with mediums and styles, push<strong>in</strong>g boundaries<br />
to symbolize <strong>the</strong> endless possibilities that<br />
come with a fresh canvas.<br />
As <strong>the</strong> world ushers <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> New Year, fireworks<br />
illum<strong>in</strong>ate <strong>the</strong> sky, and <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> art community,<br />
<strong>the</strong>se bursts of color <strong>in</strong>spire a visual<br />
spectacle of <strong>the</strong>ir own. Digital artists may<br />
craft immersive experiences that mimic <strong>the</strong><br />
brilliance of fireworks, while pa<strong>in</strong>ters may experiment<br />
with new techniques to capture <strong>the</strong><br />
fleet<strong>in</strong>g beauty of light and movement.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> quiet moments lead<strong>in</strong>g up to midnight,<br />
artists f<strong>in</strong>d solace <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir studios, surrounded<br />
by <strong>the</strong> tools of <strong>the</strong>ir trade. It is a time<br />
of <strong>in</strong>trospection, creation, and anticipation.<br />
New Year’s Eve becomes a collective celebration,<br />
not just of <strong>the</strong> pass<strong>in</strong>g of time, but<br />
of <strong>the</strong> boundless potential that awaits on <strong>the</strong><br />
blank canvas of <strong>the</strong> year ahead.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
29
CONVERSATIONS<br />
In what ways did <strong>the</strong> lockdown serve as a transformative juncture<br />
<strong>in</strong> your artistic journey?<br />
The onset of <strong>the</strong> COVID-19 pandemic prompted a soul-search<strong>in</strong>g<br />
reevaluation of my life. Challenges <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> hospitality <strong>in</strong>dustry<br />
led to <strong>the</strong> sale of my cafes, mark<strong>in</strong>g a decisive turn toward embrac<strong>in</strong>g<br />
my true call<strong>in</strong>g as an artist.<br />
As a fa<strong>the</strong>r, I wanted to set an example for my daughter, show<strong>in</strong>g<br />
that relentless pursuit of passion can shape one’s dest<strong>in</strong>y. The<br />
lockdown provided <strong>the</strong> time to immerse myself <strong>in</strong> pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g, turn<strong>in</strong>g<br />
sporadic sessions <strong>in</strong>to a daily commitment, and my style began<br />
to crystallize.<br />
Around 18 months ago, everyth<strong>in</strong>g clicked. The textured work<br />
I produce became a manifestation of my identity as an artist. This<br />
realization fueled unwaver<strong>in</strong>g dedication, and <strong>the</strong> last 12 months<br />
saw a whirlw<strong>in</strong>d of momentum, with opportunities aris<strong>in</strong>g and a<br />
positive reception to my work.<br />
Participat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> O<strong>the</strong>r Art Fair <strong>in</strong> Sydney last <strong>December</strong> was<br />
a climax. The overwhelm<strong>in</strong>gly positive response validated that I<br />
had found my unique voice as an artist. S<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong>n, I’ve been all <strong>in</strong>,<br />
leav<strong>in</strong>g no room for a Plan B. Art is not just what I do; it’s who I am.<br />
Reflect<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> past two years, particularly <strong>the</strong> global shutdown,<br />
life’s swift alterations are surreal. Manag<strong>in</strong>g cafes, I reached<br />
a resolute ‘fuck it’ moment, decid<strong>in</strong>g to pursue art. The fear of vulnerability<br />
and potential criticism was overcome, mark<strong>in</strong>g a turn<strong>in</strong>g<br />
po<strong>in</strong>t.<br />
This decision to fully immerse myself <strong>in</strong> art has proven to be <strong>the</strong><br />
most reward<strong>in</strong>g choice. Creat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>se textured works feels like<br />
a call<strong>in</strong>g, a profound connection to mold<strong>in</strong>g texture and form. It’s<br />
a journey of self-discovery, shedd<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> fear of judgment, and<br />
embrac<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> joy of do<strong>in</strong>g what I was seem<strong>in</strong>gly put on this earth<br />
to do—create art that resonates deeply.<br />
30 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
Mat<strong>the</strong>w<br />
Cauchi<br />
LAYERS OF EXPRESSION: MATTHEW CAUCHI’S ABSTRACT SYMPHONY<br />
BLENDING MINIMALISM, FAUVISM, AND EXPRESSIONISM<br />
Mat<strong>the</strong>w Cauchi, a Sydney-based Mixed Media abstract artist, has emerged as a<br />
dist<strong>in</strong>ctive force <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> contemporary art scene, skillfully navigat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tersections<br />
of m<strong>in</strong>imalism, Fauvism, and Abstract Expressionism. With a deliberate and considered<br />
approach, Cauchi’s pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs are a testament to <strong>the</strong> delicate balance he<br />
strikes between <strong>the</strong>se artistic realms.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
31
CONVERSATIONS<br />
Your work seamlessly <strong>in</strong>tegrates elements of m<strong>in</strong>imalism, Fauvism,<br />
and Abstract Expressionism. Can you share some of <strong>the</strong><br />
artists or movements that have <strong>in</strong>fluenced your unique artistic<br />
style?<br />
S<strong>in</strong>ce my early teens, around 14 or 15, I’ve been captivated<br />
by <strong>the</strong> works of Jose Parla, a renowned artist from Brooklyn, New<br />
York. His layered, textured art, <strong>in</strong>fluenced by street life and calligraphy,<br />
left a last<strong>in</strong>g impact on me. I’m particularly drawn to his use<br />
of mixed media, tear<strong>in</strong>g posters from sidewalks to create <strong>in</strong>tricate<br />
patterns.<br />
This fasc<strong>in</strong>ation with urban decay and texture is a consistent<br />
<strong>the</strong>me <strong>in</strong> my work. Walk<strong>in</strong>g through a city, I see beauty <strong>in</strong> peel<strong>in</strong>g<br />
pa<strong>in</strong>t and wea<strong>the</strong>red surfaces. Inspired by Parla, I’ve engaged <strong>in</strong><br />
a bit of ‘guerrilla art,’ tear<strong>in</strong>g down posters from dodgy suburbs to<br />
<strong>in</strong>corporate <strong>the</strong>ir layers <strong>in</strong>to my textured creations.<br />
The abstract era significantly <strong>in</strong>fluences my understand<strong>in</strong>g<br />
of art. My work might not carry profound hidden mean<strong>in</strong>gs consciously,<br />
but <strong>the</strong>re’s an ongo<strong>in</strong>g exploration, a subconscious journey<br />
where I layer, cut back, and uncover elements. The process is<br />
cathartic and deeply enjoyable.<br />
My art isn’t laden with <strong>in</strong>tricate mean<strong>in</strong>gs—at least not consciously.<br />
It’s an expression of what feels right, creat<strong>in</strong>g compositions<br />
that are detailed, considered, and beautiful. Replicat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> beauty of <strong>the</strong> streets on a large canvas for a design-focused<br />
audience is my goal.<br />
In essence, I aim to create art I love and would proudly hang on<br />
my wall. The fact that o<strong>the</strong>rs f<strong>in</strong>d joy <strong>in</strong> it too is immensely gratify<strong>in</strong>g—a<br />
testament to <strong>the</strong> power of creat<strong>in</strong>g someth<strong>in</strong>g au<strong>the</strong>ntically<br />
beautiful.<br />
Your approach to art-mak<strong>in</strong>g is described as <strong>in</strong>tuitive and improvisational.<br />
How does spontaneity <strong>in</strong>fluence your creative<br />
decisions, and how do you balance this with <strong>the</strong> deliberate<br />
layer<strong>in</strong>g process <strong>in</strong> your works?<br />
My creative process often starts with a blank canvas, offer<strong>in</strong>g<br />
room for both improvisation and <strong>in</strong>tention. In <strong>the</strong> past six months,<br />
I’ve shifted between work<strong>in</strong>g on board and canvas, with larger<br />
pieces f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir home on canvas due to logistical considerations,<br />
especially for <strong>in</strong>ternational shipp<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Whe<strong>the</strong>r beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g with a burst of color or a unique compound<br />
I’ve formulated, <strong>the</strong> process is a dance between structure and<br />
spontaneity. Layers upon layers follow, with ref<strong>in</strong>ement and focus<br />
on specific areas that catch my eye. Unpredictability is key, as materials<br />
with short dry<strong>in</strong>g times demand <strong>in</strong>tuition. Mistakes become<br />
part of <strong>the</strong> process, requir<strong>in</strong>g adaptability.<br />
The true essence of my work emerges <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> f<strong>in</strong>al 5 to 7 hours,<br />
a delicate balance between chaos and visually arrest<strong>in</strong>g beauty.<br />
In a current commission piece, layers and textures unfold, each<br />
stroke contribut<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> composition. I selectively ref<strong>in</strong>e areas<br />
while preserv<strong>in</strong>g sections that resonate. The f<strong>in</strong>al layer shapes <strong>the</strong><br />
abstract nature, a dance between chaos and deliberate beauty.<br />
My process <strong>in</strong>vites viewers to explore layers, question what lies<br />
beneath, and appreciate <strong>the</strong> dynamic <strong>in</strong>terplay between chaos<br />
and beauty.<br />
32 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
Have you ever encountered a po<strong>in</strong>t <strong>in</strong> your creative process<br />
where you felt stuck or needed to take a break to rega<strong>in</strong> momentum?<br />
The artistic journey is a delicate dance between aspiration and<br />
self-doubt, a rhythm felt by every artist. In my daily struggle, <strong>the</strong><br />
studio, my creative sanctuary, often holds pieces I believed were<br />
ru<strong>in</strong>ed. Countless pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs have been declared ‘hated’ upon my<br />
return <strong>the</strong> next day—a cycle fueled by an <strong>in</strong>nate restlessness and<br />
a desire to push boundaries.<br />
While self-critique is a powerful tool, it’s a double-edged sword,<br />
sometimes obscur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> joy of <strong>the</strong> present moment. The vulnerability<br />
of shar<strong>in</strong>g art <strong>in</strong>tensifies this emotional labyr<strong>in</strong>th. The fear<br />
of not be<strong>in</strong>g received as hoped can be paralyz<strong>in</strong>g. Witness<strong>in</strong>g<br />
echoes of my work worldwide br<strong>in</strong>gs flattery but also a realization<br />
of certa<strong>in</strong> aes<strong>the</strong>tics’ ubiquity.<br />
The f<strong>in</strong>al layers, particularly challeng<strong>in</strong>g due to <strong>the</strong>ir permanence,<br />
<strong>in</strong>volve a high-stakes game of cover<strong>in</strong>g and reveal<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Mistakes become <strong>in</strong>tegral parts of <strong>the</strong> narrative, woven <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong><br />
artwork’s fabric. Artistic evolution <strong>in</strong>volves phases of mediocrity.<br />
Look<strong>in</strong>g back at past work dispels <strong>the</strong> illusion of <strong>in</strong>stantaneous talent,<br />
emphasiz<strong>in</strong>g consistent effort and mak<strong>in</strong>g subpar work along<br />
<strong>the</strong> way.<br />
The arduous path of an artist <strong>in</strong>volves not only creat<strong>in</strong>g but also<br />
wea<strong>the</strong>r<strong>in</strong>g storms of self-doubt and frustration. It’s a testament<br />
to resilience, forg<strong>in</strong>g ahead despite soul-crush<strong>in</strong>g moments, with<br />
<strong>the</strong> hope that, with time and persistence, <strong>the</strong> balance might shift<br />
toward more favorable creative outcomes.<br />
What message do you have for aspir<strong>in</strong>g artists, those who haven’t<br />
yet taken up <strong>the</strong> brush or are <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> early stages of <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
artistic journey?<br />
In <strong>the</strong> dance of creation, <strong>the</strong>re’s a profound moment when brush<br />
meets canvas, and creativity flows like an elusive river. To aspir<strong>in</strong>g<br />
artists, I say, embrace <strong>the</strong> brush, let it move with <strong>in</strong>tuitive rhythm.<br />
This journey, though daunt<strong>in</strong>g, is about travers<strong>in</strong>g doubt and confront<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>in</strong>security. Don’t fear judgment; <strong>the</strong> first step is to be vulnerable<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> face of creation.<br />
Understand that <strong>the</strong> road to mastery <strong>in</strong>volves creat<strong>in</strong>g work<br />
that falls short <strong>in</strong>itially. To budd<strong>in</strong>g artists, I offer this counsel: let<br />
doubt be a whisper <strong>in</strong> your creative symphony. Keep pick<strong>in</strong>g up<br />
<strong>the</strong> brush, let each stroke be a testament to your evolv<strong>in</strong>g journey.<br />
Trust <strong>the</strong> process, embrace uncerta<strong>in</strong>ty, and know that, <strong>in</strong> time, it<br />
weaves <strong>in</strong>to a tapestry of your artistic expression.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
33
EDITORIAL<br />
CANVAS <strong>2023</strong>: A TAPESTRY OF<br />
ARTISTIC TRANSCENDENCE<br />
As we embark on <strong>the</strong> f<strong>in</strong>al chapter of<br />
<strong>2023</strong>, <strong>the</strong> <strong>December</strong> edition of our<br />
art magaz<strong>in</strong>e unfolds as a canvas<br />
adorned with <strong>the</strong> brushstrokes of<br />
creativity, <strong>in</strong>novation, and a profound connection<br />
to <strong>the</strong> human experience. In a world<br />
that cont<strong>in</strong>ually evolves, <strong>the</strong> art that graces<br />
our pages reflects not only <strong>the</strong> current zeitgeist<br />
but also <strong>the</strong> timeless essence of expression.<br />
Reflect<strong>in</strong>g on Diversity and Inclusion <strong>in</strong><br />
Art:<br />
This year has been marked by a profound<br />
acknowledgment of <strong>the</strong> diversity that enriches<br />
our global artistic landscape. Our pages<br />
proudly feature artists whose voices break<br />
barriers, celebrat<strong>in</strong>g cultural richness and<br />
advocat<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>in</strong>clusivity. The tapestry of art<br />
is diverse, and it is through this diversity that<br />
we f<strong>in</strong>d strength, <strong>in</strong>spiration, and a deeper<br />
understand<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> human story.<br />
Navigat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Digital Frontier:<br />
The digital realm cont<strong>in</strong>ues to redef<strong>in</strong>e<br />
how we create, consume, and engage<br />
with art. From NFTs push<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> boundaries<br />
of ownership to virtual exhibitions that<br />
transcend geographical limitations, artists<br />
are navigat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> digital frontier with unparalleled<br />
creativity. In our <strong>December</strong> edition,<br />
explore <strong>the</strong> convergence of traditional<br />
craftsmanship with cutt<strong>in</strong>g-edge technology,<br />
as artists reimag<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong> boundaries of <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
chosen mediums.<br />
Art as a Catalyst for Change:<br />
Art has an <strong>in</strong>herent power to challenge<br />
norms, spark dialogue, and drive societal<br />
change. In this edition, we delve <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong><br />
ways artists worldwide are us<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir creativity<br />
as a force for positive transformation.<br />
From pieces that tackle press<strong>in</strong>g environmental<br />
concerns to works that amplify underrepresented<br />
voices, art emerges not just<br />
as an aes<strong>the</strong>tic pursuit but as a catalyst for<br />
mean<strong>in</strong>gful, impactful change.<br />
34 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
Seasonal Inspirations and Timeless Traditions:<br />
As <strong>the</strong> holiday season unfolds, we turn<br />
our attention to <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tersection of art and tradition.<br />
Through festive brushstrokes, sculptures,<br />
and <strong>in</strong>stallations, artists capture <strong>the</strong><br />
spirit of <strong>the</strong> season, <strong>in</strong>fus<strong>in</strong>g it with new <strong>in</strong>terpretations<br />
and perspectives. Our <strong>December</strong><br />
edition <strong>in</strong>vites you to explore <strong>the</strong> enchant<strong>in</strong>g<br />
fusion of seasonal <strong>in</strong>spirations and timeless<br />
artistic traditions.<br />
Artistic Resilience <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Face of Challenges:<br />
<strong>2023</strong> has presented its share of challenges,<br />
and yet, artists have demonstrated<br />
remarkable resilience. In <strong>the</strong> face of uncerta<strong>in</strong>ty,<br />
<strong>the</strong> art community has proven its ability<br />
to adapt, <strong>in</strong>novate, and cont<strong>in</strong>ue <strong>in</strong>spir<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> world. Our editorial team has <strong>the</strong> privilege<br />
of showcas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> stories of artists who,<br />
aga<strong>in</strong>st all odds, have found strength <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
creative pursuits.<br />
As we bid farewell to <strong>2023</strong>, let this <strong>December</strong><br />
edition of our art magaz<strong>in</strong>e serve as<br />
a testament to <strong>the</strong> endur<strong>in</strong>g power of art—a<br />
force that transcends time, resonates with<br />
diverse voices, and shapes <strong>the</strong> narrative of<br />
our shared human experience.<br />
Wish<strong>in</strong>g you a <strong>December</strong> filled with <strong>in</strong>spiration,<br />
creativity, and <strong>the</strong> boundless joy that<br />
art br<strong>in</strong>gs to our lives.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
35
CONVERSATIONS<br />
Can you share more about your journey from study<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>terior<br />
design <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UK to becom<strong>in</strong>g an entrepreneur <strong>in</strong> Dubai? What<br />
<strong>in</strong>spired this transition?<br />
From <strong>the</strong> beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g, I’ve always had a dream of relocat<strong>in</strong>g to<br />
Dubai and establish<strong>in</strong>g my very own bus<strong>in</strong>ess, be it <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> field<br />
of <strong>in</strong>terior design or any o<strong>the</strong>r area that truly ignites my passion. I<br />
firmly believe <strong>in</strong> tak<strong>in</strong>g charge of one’s own dest<strong>in</strong>y and seiz<strong>in</strong>g every<br />
opportunity that comes your way. Dubai, <strong>in</strong> my eyes, stood out<br />
as <strong>the</strong> ideal dest<strong>in</strong>ation that could turn my aspirations <strong>in</strong>to a reality.<br />
Leav<strong>in</strong>g a successful career to pursue entrepreneurship is<br />
a bold move. What motivated you to take this step, and what<br />
challenges did you face dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> transition?<br />
Upon ga<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g firsthand experience work<strong>in</strong>g for someone else, it<br />
became very clear that it was not <strong>the</strong> path I was meant to follow. I<br />
felt conf<strong>in</strong>ed, lack<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> freedom to fully unleash my true passion.<br />
While some suggested that it might have been <strong>the</strong> specific company<br />
I worked for, deep down, I always knew my motivation lay <strong>in</strong><br />
build<strong>in</strong>g someth<strong>in</strong>g from scratch.<br />
Embark<strong>in</strong>g on this transition was not without its fair share of<br />
challenges. F<strong>in</strong>ancial concerns, <strong>the</strong> need to connect with <strong>the</strong> right<br />
<strong>in</strong>dividuals, and <strong>the</strong> fear of failure all loomed large. Never<strong>the</strong>less,<br />
I recognized that if I didn’t take <strong>the</strong> leap and give it my all, I would<br />
forever be haunted by regret.<br />
It’s often said that with great risk comes great reward, and I<br />
firmly believed that to be true. By ventur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> unknown, I<br />
embraced <strong>the</strong> opportunity to carve my own path, pursue my passions,<br />
and ultimately f<strong>in</strong>d fulfillment <strong>in</strong> my entrepreneurial journey.<br />
Manag<strong>in</strong>g three bus<strong>in</strong>esses simultaneously is no small feat.<br />
Could you tell us about each of your bus<strong>in</strong>esses and how you<br />
balance your time and efforts among <strong>the</strong>m?<br />
In 2020, amidst <strong>the</strong> COVID lockdown, I embarked on an entrepreneurial<br />
journey fueled by passion. Despite hav<strong>in</strong>g no prior experience,<br />
I established an Ecommerce sk<strong>in</strong>care company called<br />
Jai & Co. Through extensive research, I began handcraft<strong>in</strong>g a<br />
range of sk<strong>in</strong>care products, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g serums and body butters. I<br />
created a website, launched social media channels, and successfully<br />
sold products through my onl<strong>in</strong>e platform. Additionally, I even<br />
opened a pop-up store <strong>in</strong> Boxpark Shoreditch.<br />
Simultaneously, I managed to balance freelance <strong>in</strong>terior design<br />
projects, <strong>in</strong>itially focused on design<strong>in</strong>g boutique stores <strong>in</strong> London<br />
and Oman. However, recogniz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> significant time commitment<br />
required, I enlisted <strong>the</strong> help of a graphic designer and social media<br />
manager to handle Jai & Co’s social channels. Observ<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
workflow, I realised that I could potentially offer similar services<br />
with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> realm of <strong>in</strong>terior design.<br />
After careful consideration, I made <strong>the</strong> decision to shift my focus<br />
towards offer<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>terior and graphic design services. This led to<br />
<strong>the</strong> closure of Jai & Co, allow<strong>in</strong>g me to fully dedicate my efforts to<br />
design.<br />
Relocat<strong>in</strong>g to a new country can be both excit<strong>in</strong>g and challeng<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
How did your move to Dubai impact your entrepreneurial<br />
pursuits, and what opportunities did it br<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> table?<br />
Relocat<strong>in</strong>g to a new country <strong>in</strong>deed br<strong>in</strong>gs a mix of excitement<br />
and challenges. In <strong>the</strong> case of Dubai, my move had a profound<br />
impact on my entrepreneurial pursuits. Dubai’s dynamic bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />
landscape and entrepreneurial ecosystem presented a multitude<br />
of opportunities for me to explore and capitalise on.<br />
Of course, challenges were also present, such as navigat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
cultural differences and adjust<strong>in</strong>g to a new market. However, <strong>the</strong>se<br />
challenges were outweighed by <strong>the</strong> numerous opportunities that<br />
Dubai offered, ultimately propell<strong>in</strong>g my entrepreneurial pursuits to<br />
new heights.<br />
In summary, my move to Dubai had a transformative impact on<br />
my entrepreneurial journey. It provided a fertile ground for growth,<br />
access to diverse markets, and a supportive ecosystem that nurtured<br />
my ventures. The city’s unique blend of excitement and challenges<br />
fueled my determ<strong>in</strong>ation to succeed, ultimately shap<strong>in</strong>g my<br />
path as an entrepreneur.<br />
As a successful entrepreneur and <strong>the</strong> founder of House of Sorority,<br />
what advice would you give to aspir<strong>in</strong>g female entrepreneurs<br />
look<strong>in</strong>g to start <strong>the</strong>ir own bus<strong>in</strong>esses or communities?<br />
Just start! Although daunt<strong>in</strong>g at first, it’s a beautiful and reward<br />
journey that you will never regret tak<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
Can you share a memorable experience or achievement from<br />
your journey that has been particularly mean<strong>in</strong>gful to you,<br />
both personally and professionally?<br />
Start<strong>in</strong>g my own bus<strong>in</strong>ess was huge, but <strong>the</strong> real game-changer<br />
was when I followed my dream and moved to Dubai. It wasn’t just<br />
a personal w<strong>in</strong>; it seriously upped my bus<strong>in</strong>ess game with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
first year, turn<strong>in</strong>g it <strong>in</strong>to a super excit<strong>in</strong>g chapter of my adventure.<br />
Your commitment to personal growth and help<strong>in</strong>g o<strong>the</strong>rs is evident.<br />
How do you cont<strong>in</strong>ue to evolve as an entrepreneur and<br />
<strong>in</strong>spire o<strong>the</strong>rs with<strong>in</strong> your network?<br />
By stay<strong>in</strong>g open to new ideas and approaches and designat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
strong leadership.<br />
In your op<strong>in</strong>ion, how can <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tersection of passion, determ<strong>in</strong>ation,<br />
and a desire for connection drive <strong>in</strong>dividuals to achieve<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir goals and make a positive impact <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir communities?<br />
Passion fuels purpose, determ<strong>in</strong>ation pushes through obstacles,<br />
and a desire for connection builds networks of support, creat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a powerful synergy that not only propels you towards your<br />
goals but also fosters a supportive community that thrives on<br />
shared success.<br />
Look<strong>in</strong>g ahead, what are your future goals and aspirations,<br />
both <strong>in</strong> your entrepreneurial endeavors and <strong>in</strong> your work with<br />
House of Sorority?<br />
I’m all <strong>in</strong> with House of Sorority, my most successful venture yet,<br />
not just <strong>in</strong> metrics but <strong>in</strong> fulfill<strong>in</strong>g my creative passions and be<strong>in</strong>g<br />
able to help o<strong>the</strong>r people, this bus<strong>in</strong>ess blends all my loves <strong>in</strong>to<br />
one. My entrepreneurial journey has equipped me with <strong>the</strong> skills to<br />
make this a success. I’ve found my true call<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g joy to<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rs and pursu<strong>in</strong>g my passions wholeheartedly. My future goal is<br />
to make House of Sorority <strong>the</strong> go-to community <strong>in</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g genu<strong>in</strong>e<br />
friendships <strong>in</strong> Dubai.<br />
36 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
UNVEILING DREAMS IN DUBAI:<br />
Juha<strong>in</strong>a Edres<br />
ON ENTREPRENEURSHIP, COMMUNITY BUILDING, AND THE POWER OF SISTERHOOD<br />
Meet Juha<strong>in</strong>a Edres, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed her passion <strong>in</strong>to thriv<strong>in</strong>g ventures <strong>in</strong> Dubai. From<br />
found<strong>in</strong>g an Ecommerce sk<strong>in</strong>care company to establish<strong>in</strong>g a dynamic community for female expats, Juha<strong>in</strong>a’s<br />
journey reflects determ<strong>in</strong>ation, resilience, and a commitment to foster<strong>in</strong>g genu<strong>in</strong>e connections. Her ventures<br />
<strong>in</strong>clude freelance <strong>in</strong>terior design projects and <strong>the</strong> empower<strong>in</strong>g community, House of Sorority. Juha<strong>in</strong>a’s story is a<br />
testament to <strong>the</strong> transformative power of follow<strong>in</strong>g one’s heart, seiz<strong>in</strong>g opportunities, and creat<strong>in</strong>g spaces where<br />
personal growth and shared success flourish.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
37
BRUSHSTROKES FROM THE PAST<br />
In <strong>the</strong> enchant<strong>in</strong>g realm of late 19th-century<br />
art, Danish pa<strong>in</strong>ter Viggo Johansen<br />
emerges as a lum<strong>in</strong>ary, his work a testament<br />
to <strong>the</strong> transformative power of<br />
<strong>the</strong> canvas. Among his masterpieces, <strong>the</strong><br />
pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g “Merry Christmas,” created <strong>in</strong> 1891,<br />
stands as a captivat<strong>in</strong>g snapshot of an era<br />
brimm<strong>in</strong>g with tradition, warmth, and festive<br />
spirit.<br />
Viggo Johansen: A Brush with Brilliance<br />
Born <strong>in</strong> Copenhagen <strong>in</strong> 1851, Viggo Johansen<br />
was a prom<strong>in</strong>ent figure <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Skagen<br />
Pa<strong>in</strong>ters, a group of Danish and Nordic<br />
artists who congregated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> nor<strong>the</strong>rnmost<br />
part of Denmark. Johansen’s work is characterized<br />
by a fusion of Realism and Naturalism,<br />
often depict<strong>in</strong>g scenes of everyday<br />
life with a keen eye for detail and emotion.<br />
His commitment to captur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> au<strong>the</strong>ntic<br />
essence of his subjects sets him apart as an<br />
artist who not only pa<strong>in</strong>ted but also told stories<br />
on canvas.<br />
The Festive Tapestry of “Merry Christmas”<br />
“Merry Christmas” is a testament to Johansen’s<br />
ability to <strong>in</strong>fuse <strong>the</strong> canvas with palpable<br />
emotion and atmosphere. The pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g<br />
transports us to a qua<strong>in</strong>t Danish liv<strong>in</strong>g<br />
room adorned for <strong>the</strong> holiday season. The<br />
flicker<strong>in</strong>g glow of candles casts a warm, amber<br />
hue, while a festively decorated Christmas<br />
tree takes center stage, its branches<br />
adorned with ornaments and candles aglow.<br />
Johansen’s attention to detail is evident<br />
<strong>in</strong> every brushstroke, from <strong>the</strong> delicate patterns<br />
on <strong>the</strong> wallpaper to <strong>the</strong> reflections <strong>in</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> glisten<strong>in</strong>g baubles. The scene is not just<br />
a portrayal of a festive moment; it is an <strong>in</strong>vitation<br />
for <strong>the</strong> viewer to step <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> nostalgic<br />
embrace of a bygone Christmas.<br />
Style and Technique: A Dance of Light and<br />
Color<br />
Johansen’s style <strong>in</strong> “Merry Christmas”<br />
mirrors <strong>the</strong> broader Scand<strong>in</strong>avian art movement<br />
of <strong>the</strong> time. The <strong>in</strong>fluence of Realism<br />
is unmistakable <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> precision with which<br />
he captures <strong>the</strong> textures and nuances of <strong>the</strong><br />
scene. Yet, <strong>the</strong>re is an <strong>in</strong>herent warmth and<br />
sentimentality that transcends mere realism.<br />
Johansen skillfully employs light and color to<br />
evoke a sense of coz<strong>in</strong>ess and familial joy,<br />
<strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> viewer to share <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> celebration.<br />
The artist’s use of loose brushstrokes <strong>in</strong><br />
areas like <strong>the</strong> flicker<strong>in</strong>g candle flames and<br />
<strong>the</strong> soft glow of <strong>the</strong> tree lights adds a touch<br />
of Impressionism to <strong>the</strong> composition. This fusion<br />
of styles creates a visual symphony that<br />
not only captures <strong>the</strong> visual aes<strong>the</strong>tics of <strong>the</strong><br />
moment but also <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tangible emotions that<br />
l<strong>in</strong>ger <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> air dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> holiday season.<br />
“Merry Christmas” by Viggo Johansen is<br />
not just a pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g; it’s a time capsule that<br />
allows us to step <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> heart of a 19th-century<br />
Danish Christmas. Through <strong>the</strong> delicate<br />
<strong>in</strong>terplay of light, color, and emotion, Johansen’s<br />
brushstrokes from <strong>the</strong> past cont<strong>in</strong>ue to<br />
resonate, <strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g us to celebrate <strong>the</strong> timeless<br />
beauty of <strong>the</strong> holiday season.<br />
38 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
BRUSHSTROKES FROM THE PAST:<br />
“MERRY CHRISTMAS” BY VIGGO<br />
JOHANSEN (1891)<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
39
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
40 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Whimsical Brushstrokes and Vibrant Dreams: Explor<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Artistic Odyssey of<br />
Meyoco Artist<br />
Meyoco, an illustrator hail<strong>in</strong>g from Sou<strong>the</strong>ast Asia, has carved a niche for herself with art that<br />
seamlessly blends beauty and nostalgia. Draw<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>spiration from <strong>the</strong> captivat<strong>in</strong>g aes<strong>the</strong>tics<br />
of circa 1990 Sailor Moon, her creations are adorned with <strong>in</strong>tricate florals, flow<strong>in</strong>g waves, and<br />
a vibrant palette that evokes a sense of whimsy and warmth.<br />
Her artistic journey began <strong>in</strong> primary<br />
school, where a love for art took<br />
root, <strong>in</strong>itially spark<strong>in</strong>g dreams of<br />
becom<strong>in</strong>g a comic artist. However,<br />
Meyoco’s true artistic exploration took flight<br />
dur<strong>in</strong>g university when she realized her passion<br />
for draw<strong>in</strong>g eclipsed her commitment<br />
to a non-art-related major. This realization<br />
marked <strong>the</strong> beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g of a transformative<br />
period <strong>in</strong> Meyoco’s life, marked by a surge<br />
<strong>in</strong> artistic expression, <strong>the</strong> creation of her own<br />
merchandise, and active participation <strong>in</strong><br />
conventions.<br />
Meyoco’s work reflects a dreamy, soft,<br />
and relax<strong>in</strong>g quality, heavily <strong>in</strong>fluenced by<br />
Japanese comics and t<strong>in</strong>ged with <strong>the</strong> impact<br />
of western animation and pop culture. Over<br />
<strong>the</strong> years, her style has evolved organically,<br />
distanc<strong>in</strong>g itself from imitation and embrac<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a unique identity. Meyoco’s journey <strong>in</strong><br />
f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g her own style and color palette has<br />
been a testament to her artistic growth,<br />
break<strong>in</strong>g away from <strong>the</strong> desire to emulate<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rs and <strong>in</strong>stead embrac<strong>in</strong>g what genu<strong>in</strong>ely<br />
br<strong>in</strong>gs her joy.<br />
One noticeable evolution <strong>in</strong> Meyoco’s<br />
artistic palette has been her chang<strong>in</strong>g taste<br />
<strong>in</strong> colors. Initially dislik<strong>in</strong>g p<strong>in</strong>k and green,<br />
exposure to o<strong>the</strong>r artists’ work opened her<br />
eyes to <strong>the</strong> warm allure of p<strong>in</strong>k and its harmonious<br />
dance with green. Today, <strong>the</strong>se<br />
colors have become her trademarks, woven<br />
<strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> fabric of her dist<strong>in</strong>ctive style.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> heart of Meyoco’s art lies a profound<br />
<strong>in</strong>fluence of pop culture, Japanese<br />
comics, and anime. Her lifelong engagement<br />
with <strong>the</strong>se mediums, start<strong>in</strong>g from<br />
childhood, has left an <strong>in</strong>delible mark on<br />
her work. Even as her consumption of Japanese<br />
comics and anime has evolved, <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>in</strong>fluence rema<strong>in</strong>s potent, especially <strong>in</strong> her<br />
depictions of people. Meyoco’s art reflects<br />
a syn<strong>the</strong>sis of her past and present, where<br />
even <strong>the</strong> comics or anime she may no longer<br />
actively follow still resonate with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
essence of her artistic style.<br />
Meyoco’s journey as an illustrator and<br />
small bus<strong>in</strong>ess owner not only exemplifies<br />
her artistic evolution but also serves as an<br />
<strong>in</strong>spiration for aspir<strong>in</strong>g artists to embrace<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir unique voices and f<strong>in</strong>d beauty <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
<strong>in</strong>dividuality. Her art, with its nostalgic charm<br />
and vibrant allure, cont<strong>in</strong>ues to captivate audiences,<br />
mak<strong>in</strong>g Meyoco a prom<strong>in</strong>ent figure<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> global art community.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
41
PICTURE STORY<br />
PHOTO BY DARYL HAN ON UNSPLASH<br />
42 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
DUAL TRADE SHOW<br />
PAPERWORLD MIDDLE EAST AND<br />
GIFTS AND LIFESTYLE MIDDLE<br />
EAST WRAPS UP ANOTHER<br />
SUCCESSFUL EDITION<br />
UAE<br />
Paperworld Middle East, co-located<br />
with Gifts and Lifestyle Middle East,<br />
grew 50% from last year and welcomed<br />
visitors from over 100 countries<br />
as <strong>the</strong>y concluded <strong>in</strong> November.<br />
With <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>dustry constantly evolv<strong>in</strong>g,<br />
a panel at The Hub Forumtitled “Look<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Ahead: An outlook on trends shap<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><br />
paper and stationery <strong>in</strong>dustry”, paper <strong>in</strong>dustry<br />
experts from Alia Mohd Trad<strong>in</strong>g Co. LLC,<br />
Ittihad Paper Mill, Capital Envelopes, and<br />
MEPCO Gulf shared <strong>the</strong>ir clos<strong>in</strong>g thoughts<br />
and predictions for <strong>the</strong> sector’s future.<br />
The panellists unanimously agreed that<br />
<strong>the</strong> preference for susta<strong>in</strong>able products<br />
would cont<strong>in</strong>ue to rise, particularly as <strong>the</strong><br />
younger, more eco-conscious generation<br />
comes of age. Parvesh Kapoor, Director,<br />
Alia Mohamed Trad<strong>in</strong>g, highlighted <strong>the</strong><br />
growth of e-commerce, while Ritesh Gupta,<br />
Market<strong>in</strong>g at Ittihad Paper Mill believes<br />
that face-to-face <strong>in</strong>teraction with consumers<br />
will always be significant despite <strong>the</strong> digital<br />
world’s growth.<br />
The <strong>in</strong>augural Paperworld Middle East<br />
Awards took place <strong>in</strong> a prestigious ceremony<br />
at <strong>the</strong> Al Multaqua Ballroom. Celebrat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> most <strong>in</strong>novative products, cutt<strong>in</strong>g-edge<br />
technologies and exceptional brands <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
paper <strong>in</strong>dustry, <strong>the</strong> awards recognised <strong>the</strong><br />
exceptional work of Farook Rahimtulla, owner<br />
of Farook International Stationery with <strong>the</strong><br />
‘Lifetime Achievement Award’. O<strong>the</strong>r w<strong>in</strong>ners<br />
<strong>in</strong>cluded Cloudl<strong>in</strong>e for ‘Best Notebook/<br />
Diary of <strong>the</strong> Year”, Ittihad Paper Mill for ‘Best<br />
Office-Supplies of <strong>the</strong> Year’ for <strong>the</strong> Maram<br />
Multipurpose Copy Paper, and <strong>the</strong> ‘Writ<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Instrument Product of <strong>the</strong> Year’ was awarded<br />
to Uni Mitsubishi Pencil and Pangulf Market<strong>in</strong>g<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Uni-ball Air.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> show floor, visitors were able to<br />
unlock <strong>the</strong>ir creative potential at <strong>the</strong> Artistry<br />
Workshops, <strong>in</strong> collaboration with Funun Arts.<br />
As well as pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g and sculpt<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong>se<br />
workshops offered a unique opportunity to<br />
learn about arts-based susta<strong>in</strong>ability projects,<br />
bridg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> gap between physical and<br />
digital art and <strong>the</strong> power of art <strong>the</strong>rapy.<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r focal po<strong>in</strong>t was <strong>the</strong> collaborative<br />
live art project ‘Signature Canvas’. Pa<strong>in</strong>ted<br />
by four exceptional artists – Saida Banu, Stefania<br />
Pomillo, Shiba Khan and Jivan Hovhannisyan,<br />
<strong>the</strong> strik<strong>in</strong>g piece of art illustrates <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>in</strong>terconnectedness of <strong>the</strong> world and highlights<br />
<strong>the</strong> UAE’s pivotal role as a welcom<strong>in</strong>g<br />
and unify<strong>in</strong>g centre for <strong>in</strong>dividuals from diverse<br />
cultural backgrounds. The Signature<br />
Canvas was donated to <strong>the</strong> SNF Development<br />
Center <strong>in</strong> Dubai, a tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g centre for<br />
young adults with special needs.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
43
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
44 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Brushstrokes <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Digital Chaos<br />
Marika<br />
BoniukArtist<br />
Marika, a digital artist based <strong>in</strong> Warsaw, embarks on a creative journey fueled by a passion<br />
for design<strong>in</strong>g characters and breath<strong>in</strong>g life <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong>m through <strong>the</strong> art of pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g. In a city<br />
known for its rich cultural tapestry, Marika stands out as a beacon of digital artistry, embrac<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> beauty of mess<strong>in</strong>ess <strong>in</strong> her creative process and offer<strong>in</strong>g viewers a glimpse <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong><br />
unique chaos that gives birth to her imag<strong>in</strong>ative works.<br />
Fall<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> love with <strong>the</strong> process of design<strong>in</strong>g<br />
characters, Marika has discovered<br />
<strong>the</strong> magic of br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>se<br />
creations to life through <strong>the</strong> medium<br />
of digital pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g. Her canvas is <strong>the</strong> digital<br />
realm, where she meticulously crafts characters<br />
that come alive with personality, emotion,<br />
and vibrant details. It is through this<br />
digital medium that Marika f<strong>in</strong>ds her voice,<br />
express<strong>in</strong>g her creativity and connect<strong>in</strong>g<br />
with a global audience.<br />
One dist<strong>in</strong>guish<strong>in</strong>g characteristic of Marika’s<br />
artistic process is its mess<strong>in</strong>ess, a dist<strong>in</strong>ctive<br />
trait that sets her apart. However, beh<strong>in</strong>d<br />
this apparent chaos lies a methodical<br />
approach that, when expla<strong>in</strong>ed, unveils <strong>the</strong><br />
coherence and purpose with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> creative<br />
tumult. Marika’s will<strong>in</strong>gness to embrace <strong>the</strong><br />
messy aspects of her process speaks to her<br />
au<strong>the</strong>nticity as an artist, unafraid to navigate<br />
<strong>the</strong> complexities of creation <strong>in</strong> pursuit of her<br />
vision.<br />
Marika’s artistic mission extends beyond<br />
personal expression. With a focus on creat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
her own orig<strong>in</strong>al art, she is committed to<br />
a cont<strong>in</strong>uous journey of improvement. This<br />
dedication to growth and ref<strong>in</strong>ement is a testament<br />
to her artistic <strong>in</strong>tegrity, as she seeks<br />
not only to captivate her audience but also to<br />
elevate her skills and push <strong>the</strong> boundaries of<br />
her creative abilities.<br />
The artist’s desire to share her artistic<br />
evolution with <strong>the</strong> world is a generous <strong>in</strong>vitation<br />
to audiences to witness <strong>the</strong> transformation<br />
and development of her craft. Through<br />
this openness, Marika <strong>in</strong>vites viewers <strong>in</strong>to<br />
her creative space, allow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>m to appreciate<br />
<strong>the</strong> au<strong>the</strong>nticity and passion that fuel<br />
her artistic endeavors.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> heart of Warsaw, Marika is not<br />
merely a digital artist but a storyteller, a character<br />
designer, and a pa<strong>in</strong>ter who navigates<br />
<strong>the</strong> digital realm with a messy but purposeful<br />
approach. As she focuses on creat<strong>in</strong>g orig<strong>in</strong>al<br />
art, Marika’s commitment to improvement<br />
and shar<strong>in</strong>g her artistic journey promises a<br />
captivat<strong>in</strong>g narrative that unfolds on <strong>the</strong> digital<br />
canvas, <strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g art enthusiasts to jo<strong>in</strong> her<br />
on this expressive and evolv<strong>in</strong>g adventure.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
45
46 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
A CONSCIOUS SPACE AT<br />
ALSERKAL AVENUE DURING<br />
COP28 THIS YEAR<br />
UAE<br />
Dubai is set to host The <strong>2023</strong> United<br />
Nations Climate Change Conference<br />
(COP28) from 30 November<br />
to 12 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong>, and for <strong>the</strong><br />
occassion, Alserkal Avenue will be br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r artists, change-makers, and <strong>the</strong> climate<br />
curious to create a space for susta<strong>in</strong>able<br />
development and cultural <strong>in</strong>novation,<br />
advocat<strong>in</strong>g that culture should not be an<br />
afterthought for policy makers.<br />
‘Melt<strong>in</strong>g Po<strong>in</strong>t” Climate-Related Exhibition<br />
Julian Charrière:<br />
‘Melt<strong>in</strong>g Po<strong>in</strong>t’, on view at Project <strong>Space</strong><br />
(Warehouse 50) from 1 <strong>December</strong> to 6 January,<br />
br<strong>in</strong>gs to light rarely seen perspectives<br />
of our planet’s polar regions. Rais<strong>in</strong>g climate<br />
awareness, <strong>the</strong> exhibition is a partnership<br />
between Alserkal Initiatives; a socially responsible<br />
cultural enterprise, Art of Change<br />
21; a non-profit organisation on art & environment<br />
that has played a key role dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
each COP, and Julian Charrière, a renowned<br />
and emblematic climate-engaged artist.<br />
More <strong>in</strong>formation: alserkal.onl<strong>in</strong>e/event/melt<strong>in</strong>g-po<strong>in</strong>t/<br />
2 Week Plastic-Free Dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g Water<br />
Campaign with WAYOUT The ‘Plastic-Free<br />
Dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g Water’ campaign (30 November to<br />
13 <strong>December</strong>) will prohibit s<strong>in</strong>gle-use plastic<br />
bottles at <strong>the</strong> Avenue. The <strong>in</strong>itiative, by <strong>in</strong>novative<br />
water-tech company, and Avenue resident,<br />
WAYOUT Water, will ask visitors to drop<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir plastic bottles at designated collection<br />
po<strong>in</strong>ts, which will be weighed and recycled<br />
to provide tangible data on <strong>the</strong> campaign’s<br />
impact. Refillable bottles will be available<br />
WAYOUT (Warehouse 56), and visitors can<br />
also refill <strong>the</strong>ir bottles at Le Guepard, Carbon<br />
12, and Chalk, who will each be serv<strong>in</strong>g<br />
plastic-free dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g water, locally produced<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Avenue by Wayout. More <strong>in</strong>formation:<br />
alserkal.onl<strong>in</strong>e/event/2-week-plastic-freedr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g-water-campaign-with-wayout/<br />
Respond<strong>in</strong>g through Art<br />
Leila Heller Gallery presents three solo exhibitions;<br />
American multimedia artist Clifford<br />
Ross exhibits photographic work<strong>in</strong>gs depict<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> power of <strong>the</strong> ocean dur<strong>in</strong>g storms;<br />
Diane Tuft’s show documents <strong>the</strong> visual effects<br />
of climate change and global warm<strong>in</strong>g<br />
on our planet with works produced from trips<br />
to <strong>the</strong> North and South Poles; ‘The Poetry of<br />
Water,’ by Maxi Cohen is a collection of water<br />
art captured <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UAE. A talk with Maxi<br />
Cohen will be tak<strong>in</strong>g place on 6 <strong>December</strong><br />
on <strong>the</strong> impact of immersive art, <strong>in</strong> Leila Heller<br />
Gallery. At Volte Art Projects ‘It lies beyond,’<br />
is <strong>the</strong> impressive central <strong>in</strong>stallation <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
current exhibition by Rashid Rana, on view<br />
until 3 February, that, whilst look<strong>in</strong>g like a<br />
seascape, upon closer <strong>in</strong>spection reveals to<br />
be photographs of heaps of garbage.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
47
UAE<br />
Susta<strong>in</strong>able technology with Acer<br />
Acer will be activat<strong>in</strong>g A1 space at Alserkal<br />
Avenue from 6 to 12 <strong>December</strong> with<br />
“Acer Climate Lab” an activation focused on<br />
Acer’s latest climate commitment and susta<strong>in</strong>able<br />
technology, creat<strong>in</strong>g a platform for<br />
discussions on tackl<strong>in</strong>g climate challenges.<br />
Visitors are <strong>in</strong>vited to explore Acer’s history<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tech <strong>in</strong>dustry, as a company driven by<br />
susta<strong>in</strong>ability and humanity, to learn about<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir ongo<strong>in</strong>g projects, and experience Acer’s<br />
range of eco-friendly solutions that pave<br />
<strong>the</strong> way for a susta<strong>in</strong>able future.<br />
Peaceful Engagement with TIME FOR<br />
BETTER<br />
Climate change activism community,<br />
TIME FOR BETTER, will be transform<strong>in</strong>g Jossa<br />
by Alserkal <strong>in</strong>to The Hope House, from 29<br />
November until 7 <strong>December</strong>. A thoughtfully<br />
crafted space for positive change, it will<br />
unite leaders from civil society, private sector,<br />
policy, and NGOs, with <strong>the</strong> aim of foster<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a more equitable and just future. The<br />
schedule <strong>in</strong>cludes engag<strong>in</strong>g sessions on<br />
climate storytell<strong>in</strong>g, clean energy transition,<br />
and biodiversity, culm<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> a celebration<br />
of Earth dur<strong>in</strong>g COP28.<br />
48 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Panel Discussions and Generative Workshops<br />
by kyu Collective<br />
Kyu, a collective of strategically curated<br />
creative organisations, will be convert<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Warehouse 46 <strong>in</strong>to “The Loom”, from 3 to 7<br />
<strong>December</strong>. A space where visitors can uncover<br />
how edges of leadership, storytell<strong>in</strong>g,<br />
<strong>in</strong>novation, and emerg<strong>in</strong>g technology can<br />
contribute to climate solutions. A series of<br />
workshops and panel discussions will take<br />
place, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g explor<strong>in</strong>g how a heart-centred<br />
connection to <strong>the</strong> planet can complement<br />
<strong>the</strong> necessary scientific perspectives<br />
often driv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> climate conversation. Kyu<br />
House Lates will also take place from 4 until<br />
6 <strong>December</strong>, 8 to 10PM, a night of short<br />
films, and conversation workshops.<br />
From Ink To Action Comic Initiative<br />
A collaboration between LICAF (Lake International<br />
Comic Art Festival) and <strong>the</strong> British<br />
Council (MENA), From Ink to Action (9-22<br />
<strong>December</strong>, Warehouse 58) seeks to <strong>in</strong>spire<br />
environmental consciousness through <strong>the</strong><br />
power of comic art, by exhibit<strong>in</strong>g 12 new<br />
comic books created by regional artists<br />
that address issues related to <strong>the</strong> climate<br />
crisis. The ‘Parallel Programme’ <strong>in</strong>cludes a<br />
kids workshop on 7 <strong>December</strong> at Thejamjar<br />
with one of <strong>the</strong> participat<strong>in</strong>g artists, and a<br />
dialogue session on 10 <strong>December</strong> with <strong>the</strong><br />
Lakes International Comic Art Festival director.<br />
‘Fashion for <strong>the</strong> Planet’ with The Edit<br />
In <strong>the</strong> Green Zone <strong>in</strong> Expo City Dubai Pavilion,<br />
founder of Avenue community member,<br />
The Edit, Rumana Nazim will be curat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
an exhibition highlight<strong>in</strong>g fabrics for <strong>the</strong><br />
planet, from 6 to 8 <strong>December</strong>. A panel discussion<br />
will be held on 8 <strong>December</strong> at Expo<br />
City Dubai, with Rumana as <strong>the</strong> Moderator<br />
with <strong>the</strong> speakers be<strong>in</strong>g designers from India,<br />
<strong>in</strong>dustry representatives, and experts<br />
from Middle East and UK/US.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
49
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
50 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Celestial Canvas: Unveil<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Mystique of Alma Luna’s Mexican Artistry<br />
Alma Luna Artist<br />
Alma Luna, a lum<strong>in</strong>ary <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> world of art, hails from <strong>the</strong> vibrant cultural tapestry of Mexico.<br />
While <strong>the</strong> details of her artistic journey may be shrouded <strong>in</strong> mystery, her work speaks volumes<br />
about her creative prowess and <strong>the</strong> rich <strong>in</strong>fluences drawn from <strong>the</strong> diverse landscapes and<br />
traditions of her homeland.<br />
undisclosed, <strong>the</strong> mere mention of her name<br />
suggests a connection to <strong>the</strong> celestial and<br />
<strong>the</strong> lunar. Luna, <strong>the</strong> Spanish word for <strong>the</strong><br />
moon, could allude to a fasc<strong>in</strong>ation with <strong>the</strong><br />
night sky, dreams, or <strong>the</strong> mystical elements<br />
that often f<strong>in</strong>d <strong>the</strong>ir way <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> realm of artistic<br />
expression.<br />
Artists from Mexico often draw from a rich<br />
cultural palette, <strong>in</strong>corporat<strong>in</strong>g elements such<br />
as vibrant folk art, <strong>in</strong>tricate craftsmanship,<br />
and a celebration of <strong>in</strong>digenous traditions. It<br />
would not be surpris<strong>in</strong>g if Alma Luna’s work<br />
encapsulates a fusion of <strong>the</strong>se <strong>in</strong>fluences,<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g a visual narrative that speaks to <strong>the</strong><br />
soul and echoes <strong>the</strong> stories of her people.<br />
As an artist from Mexico, Alma Luna likely<br />
grapples with <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>terplay of tradition and<br />
modernity, echo<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> dynamic cultural<br />
As an artist from Mexico, Alma Luna<br />
carries with her <strong>the</strong> essence of a<br />
country known for its vivid colors,<br />
profound cultural heritage, and a<br />
history steeped <strong>in</strong> artistic expression. Mexico,<br />
a land that has nurtured iconic artists<br />
such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, provides<br />
a fertile ground for Alma Luna’s creativity<br />
to blossom.<br />
The enigmatic nature of her background<br />
adds an air of <strong>in</strong>trigue to Alma Luna’s artistic<br />
persona. Mexico, with its diverse regions<br />
and multifaceted traditions, offers a wealth<br />
of <strong>in</strong>spiration for artists seek<strong>in</strong>g to capture<br />
<strong>the</strong> essence of a nation where <strong>the</strong> past and<br />
present dance harmoniously.<br />
While <strong>the</strong> specifics of Alma Luna’s artistic<br />
style, medium, or <strong>the</strong>matic focus rema<strong>in</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
landscape of her homeland. Whe<strong>the</strong>r her<br />
work is steeped <strong>in</strong> symbolism, narrates personal<br />
stories, or captures <strong>the</strong> spirit of Mexican<br />
folklore, <strong>the</strong> connection to her roots is<br />
likely an <strong>in</strong>tegral part of her artistic identity.<br />
Alma Luna’s art becomes a canvas where<br />
<strong>the</strong> colors of Mexico blend, where <strong>the</strong> moonlit<br />
nights and sun-drenched landscapes<br />
converge, and where <strong>the</strong> pulse of a nation<br />
resonates through her creative expressions.<br />
While <strong>the</strong> details of her journey may rema<strong>in</strong><br />
undisclosed, her art is a testament to <strong>the</strong><br />
universal language that transcends borders,<br />
<strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g viewers to explore <strong>the</strong> magic and<br />
mystery of Mexico through <strong>the</strong> eyes of Alma<br />
Luna.<br />
51
YOUR<br />
TUNEUP<br />
BRANDING<br />
Catalogues<br />
WITH<br />
VEESHAM<br />
TOLL FREE: 800-VEESHAM (833 7426)<br />
Tel: +971 4 338 8144, Email: pr<strong>in</strong>t@veesham.com<br />
www.veesham.com<br />
F<strong>in</strong>d us on:
UAE<br />
54 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
ART DUBAI 2024 UNVEILS GLOBAL<br />
SOUTH’S ARTISTIC BRILLIANCE:<br />
EXHIBITORS, THEMES, AND<br />
INNOVATIONS<br />
Art Dubai announced <strong>the</strong> list of participat<strong>in</strong>g exhibitors for its 2024 edition, which will take<br />
place at Mad<strong>in</strong>at Jumeirah, Dubai from 1-3 March 2024, with previews on Wednesday 28 and<br />
Thursday 29 February.<br />
H<br />
eld under <strong>the</strong> patronage of His Highness<br />
Sheikh Mohammed b<strong>in</strong> Rashid<br />
Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime<br />
M<strong>in</strong>ister of <strong>the</strong> UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Art<br />
Dubai is <strong>the</strong> lead<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>ternational platform<br />
for art and artists from <strong>the</strong> Middle East and<br />
Global South, Art Dubai’s 17th edition will<br />
present over 100 exhibitors across four gallery<br />
sections: Contemporary, Art Dubai Modern,<br />
Bawwaba (mean<strong>in</strong>g Gateway <strong>in</strong> Arabic)<br />
and <strong>the</strong> third edition of Art Dubai Digital, <strong>the</strong><br />
only dedicated digital section of any major<br />
<strong>in</strong>ternational art fair.<br />
This year’s edition of Art Dubai seeks to<br />
expand def<strong>in</strong>itions of <strong>the</strong> “Global South” beyond<br />
traditional geographic and economic<br />
boundaries, emphasis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> shared histories<br />
and dist<strong>in</strong>ct narratives of communities<br />
worldwide, from Delhi, Tehran and Cairo to<br />
Bogotá and Guatemala City, as well as diasporic<br />
and migrant histories from global<br />
centres like London, Paris and New York.<br />
Several galleries will be show<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> multiple<br />
sections of <strong>the</strong> fair, reflect<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> breadth of<br />
collect<strong>in</strong>g tastes <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> region, from Modern<br />
Arab masters through cutt<strong>in</strong>g-edge contemporary<br />
and new media and digital art. S<strong>in</strong>ce<br />
its foundation <strong>in</strong> 2007, Art Dubai has sought<br />
to reflect Dubai’s diverse global communities,<br />
identities and cultures, and this year<br />
welcomes more exhibitors than ever who are<br />
based <strong>in</strong> Dubai, which reflects <strong>the</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ued<br />
streng<strong>the</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> cultural scene and <strong>the</strong><br />
art market <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Emirate.<br />
Pablo del Val, Art Dubai’s Artistic Director,<br />
commented: “Over nearly two decades,<br />
Art Dubai has grown to become <strong>the</strong> major<br />
marketplace and platform for galleries from<br />
non-Western art centres. Once aga<strong>in</strong>, over<br />
60% of our programme is drawn from <strong>the</strong><br />
Global South, present<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> best galleries<br />
and tell<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> stories of <strong>the</strong> lead<strong>in</strong>g artists<br />
from this region – mak<strong>in</strong>g Art Dubai unique<br />
amongst art fairs <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> communities it serves.<br />
This year’s exhibitor list clearly demonstrates<br />
<strong>the</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ued growth of Dubai’s art scene,<br />
<strong>the</strong> importance of commercial platforms for<br />
digital and new media art, and our ongo<strong>in</strong>g<br />
commitment to scholarship and under-explored<br />
art histories. More than an art fair, we<br />
are proud to be a meet<strong>in</strong>g place for <strong>the</strong>se<br />
communities, to offer pathways for emerg<strong>in</strong>g<br />
and younger galleries represent<strong>in</strong>g a broad<br />
geographic spectrum, and to hold up mirror<br />
to <strong>the</strong> myriad communities who are contribut<strong>in</strong>g<br />
to <strong>the</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ued growth of Dubai as<br />
both a global city, and capital of <strong>the</strong> Global<br />
South.”<br />
The fair is held <strong>in</strong> partnership with A.R.M.<br />
Hold<strong>in</strong>g. It is sponsored by Swiss Wealth<br />
Management Group Julius Baer. Culturally<br />
driven lifestyle developer HUNA is a partner<br />
of Art Dubai. The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority<br />
(Dubai Culture) is <strong>the</strong> fair’s strategic<br />
partner. Mad<strong>in</strong>at Jumeirah is <strong>the</strong> home of Art<br />
Dubai.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
55
UAE<br />
ART DUBAI CONTEMPORARY<br />
A<br />
rt Dubai Contemporary presents <strong>the</strong><br />
very best <strong>in</strong> cutt<strong>in</strong>g-edge contemporary<br />
art from around <strong>the</strong> world, with<br />
a particular focus on art and artists from <strong>the</strong><br />
Global South. For our 17th edition, <strong>the</strong> fair<br />
welcomes 72 contemporary exhibitors from<br />
more than 50 cities spann<strong>in</strong>g five cont<strong>in</strong>ents.<br />
The 2024 edition will welcome several exhibitors<br />
for <strong>the</strong> first time, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Peres<br />
Projects, Gajah, and Voloshyn as well as<br />
many who are return<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> fair follow<strong>in</strong>g<br />
hiatus, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Alm<strong>in</strong>e Rech, Franco Noero,<br />
Nature Morte, Vadehra and Tanit. The<br />
fair will also showcase 21 Dubai-based exhibitors,<br />
mark<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> largest presentation to<br />
date, and reflect<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> cont<strong>in</strong>ued growth of<br />
Dubai as an <strong>in</strong>ternational cultural hub. This<br />
edition also sees <strong>in</strong>creased representation<br />
of lead<strong>in</strong>g South and South-East Asian,<br />
Middle Eastern and <strong>in</strong>ternational exhibitors.<br />
This growth reflects <strong>the</strong> rise <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />
prom<strong>in</strong>ence of <strong>the</strong>se creative centres,<br />
reflects Dubai’s expand<strong>in</strong>g population and<br />
communities and underscores <strong>the</strong> unique<br />
role Art Dubai plays as <strong>the</strong> primary <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />
platform for art from <strong>the</strong>se regions.<br />
BAWWABA<br />
B<br />
awwaba - mean<strong>in</strong>g gateway <strong>in</strong> Arabic<br />
- focuses on highly curated solo presentations<br />
of artists from <strong>the</strong> Global<br />
South and features artworks made <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> 12<br />
months prior to, or specifically for, Art Dubai.<br />
Curated by Emilano Valdés, Chief Curator<br />
at <strong>the</strong> Museum of Modern Art (MAMM)<br />
<strong>in</strong> Medell<strong>in</strong>, Colombia, <strong>the</strong> 2024 edition of<br />
Bawwaba is entitled Sanación / Heal<strong>in</strong>g, and<br />
presents a series of artistic practices that<br />
explore heal<strong>in</strong>g on a personal and spiritual<br />
but also social, historical and political level,<br />
exam<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> ways <strong>in</strong> which <strong>the</strong>se vary<strong>in</strong>g<br />
scales of <strong>the</strong> heal<strong>in</strong>g process relate. A selection<br />
of ten solo projects will spotlight artists<br />
who th<strong>in</strong>k of art as a place of reckon<strong>in</strong>g,<br />
heal<strong>in</strong>g, and com<strong>in</strong>g toge<strong>the</strong>r. At <strong>the</strong> same<br />
time, <strong>the</strong>ir work confronts social and political<br />
issues, engag<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> critical dialogue, and<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g a sense of community and social<br />
justice. Through a variety of mediums, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />
pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g, sculpture, video, and performance,<br />
<strong>the</strong>se bodies of work exam<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong><br />
ways <strong>in</strong> which art can function as a catalyst<br />
for transformation and change, compar<strong>in</strong>g<br />
how <strong>the</strong>se processes change from country<br />
to country or people to people.<br />
The artists and galleries participat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />
Bawwaba’s 2024 edition are: Laxmipriya<br />
Panigrahi (Anant Art); AVAF - Assumed Vivid<br />
Astro Focus (Baró); Arshi Irshad Ahmadzai<br />
(Bluepr<strong>in</strong>t12); Debashish Paul (Emami Art);<br />
Manuel Chavajai (Extra); Manjot Kaur (Latitude<br />
28); Nicolás Janowski (Invernizzi); Re<strong>in</strong>ata<br />
Sadimba (Perve); Abul Hisham (Secci);<br />
and Faissal El Maleki (Tashkeel).<br />
56 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
ART DUBAI MODERN<br />
A<br />
rt Dubai Modern is curated by Dr.<br />
Christianna Bon<strong>in</strong>, Assistant Professor<br />
of Art History at <strong>the</strong> American University<br />
of Sharjah, and focuses on <strong>the</strong> histories<br />
of art education and display that gave rise to<br />
today’s Global South.<br />
Beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1960s, <strong>the</strong> Soviet Union<br />
conducted robust cultural exchanges with<br />
artists, filmmakers, musicians and architects<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Middle East, Africa and South Asia,<br />
provid<strong>in</strong>g scholarships and exhibition opportunities<br />
<strong>in</strong> a parallel political and cultural<br />
programme to Western countries. This presentation<br />
will reveal <strong>the</strong> shared creative approaches,<br />
setbacks and aspirations which<br />
resulted from <strong>the</strong>se common experiences. It<br />
will feature a plurality of artistic voices from<br />
places as seem<strong>in</strong>gly distant and dist<strong>in</strong>ct<br />
as Uganda, Syria, Ukra<strong>in</strong>e and Sri Lanka,<br />
<strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g consideration of connections that<br />
transcend exist<strong>in</strong>g geopolitical borders and<br />
<strong>in</strong>stead l<strong>in</strong>k East to East and South to South.<br />
The section will also exam<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong> grow<strong>in</strong>g<br />
importance of cities such as Kyiv, Cairo,<br />
Almaty and Tashkent as centres of <strong>in</strong>ternational<br />
study and exchange <strong>in</strong> this period. It<br />
draws attention to <strong>the</strong>se significant yet understudied<br />
aspects of <strong>the</strong> history of art from<br />
<strong>the</strong>se regions, uncover<strong>in</strong>g new art practices<br />
ART DUBAI DIGITAL<br />
and perspectives for <strong>the</strong> fair’s audiences.<br />
The participat<strong>in</strong>g artists and galleries <strong>in</strong> Art<br />
Dubai Modern 2024 are:<br />
Agial: Wahib Betedd<strong>in</strong>i (Lebanon, 1929-<br />
2011) and Abdul Mannan Shamma (Syria,<br />
b.1937)<br />
Afriart: Samuel Kakaire (Uganda, b.1961)<br />
Saskia Fernando: Chandraguptha Thenuwara<br />
(Sri Lanka, b.1960)<br />
Mark Hachem: Hamed Abdalla (Egypt, 1917-<br />
1985), Fatima El Hajj (Lebanon, b.1953) and<br />
Michel<br />
Basbous (Lebanon, 1921-1981)<br />
Leila Heller: Marcos Grigorian (Armenia,<br />
1925-2007)<br />
Gazelli Art House: Tair Salakhov (Azerbaijan,<br />
1928-2021), Ashraf Murad (Azerbaijan,<br />
1929-1979)<br />
and Farhad Khalilov (Azerbaijan, b.1946)<br />
Hafez: Abdulsattar Al Mussa (KSA, b.1960)<br />
and Hakim Al Akil (Yemen, b.1965)<br />
Meem: Dia Al-Azzawi (Iraq, b. 1939), Ismail<br />
Fattah (Iraq, 1934-2004), Muhammed Aref,<br />
(Iraq,<br />
1937-2009) and Mahmoud Sabri, (Iraq,<br />
1927-2012)<br />
Voloshyn: Fedir Tetianych (Ukra<strong>in</strong>e, 1942–<br />
2007)<br />
A<br />
rt Dubai 2024 marks <strong>the</strong> third edition<br />
of Art Dubai Digital, founded <strong>in</strong> 2022<br />
to provide an annual 360-degree<br />
snapshot of <strong>the</strong> digital art landscape, explor<strong>in</strong>g<br />
how artists are utilis<strong>in</strong>g new, immersive<br />
technologies to collapse <strong>the</strong> boundaries of<br />
<strong>the</strong> traditional art world. Art Dubai Digital<br />
welcomes galleries with <strong>in</strong>novative new media<br />
programmes, as well as digital platforms<br />
build<strong>in</strong>g virtual art spaces, alongside <strong>the</strong><br />
artist collectives and Decentralised Autonomous<br />
Organisations (DAOs) that are challeng<strong>in</strong>g<br />
and push<strong>in</strong>g forward new models for<br />
artistic production and support. Re<strong>in</strong>forc<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Art Dubai’s commitment to present<strong>in</strong>g global<br />
perspectives and diversity, Art Dubai Digital<br />
<strong>in</strong>vites audiences to look beyond traditional<br />
art centres and models, mapp<strong>in</strong>g out <strong>the</strong> key<br />
agents and <strong>the</strong> platforms lead<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> way.<br />
Art Dubai Digital 2024 is curated by Alfredo<br />
Cramerotti and Auronda Scalera, whose<br />
presentation is titled Expansion / Diffusion.<br />
Inspired by <strong>the</strong> American astronomer Edw<strong>in</strong><br />
Hubble’s discovery, almost 100 years ago,<br />
that <strong>the</strong> universe was <strong>in</strong> expansion, <strong>the</strong> curators<br />
have measured <strong>the</strong> temperature of artistic<br />
practices around <strong>the</strong> world, spann<strong>in</strong>g<br />
geographies, time zones and formats. They<br />
have selected <strong>the</strong> section’s participants<br />
through what <strong>the</strong>y term “<strong>the</strong> field of art and<br />
advanced technologies” (AxAT): technical<br />
<strong>in</strong>novation through <strong>the</strong> lens of contemporary<br />
art, and vice-versa. Across more than<br />
20 presentations, Art Dubai Digital 2024 will<br />
present an expanded vision of what it is, may<br />
be, and will be, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> field of contemporary<br />
art.<br />
On show will be a diverse range of media<br />
<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g digital video, augmented reality<br />
(AR), virtual reality (VR), extended reality<br />
(XR), artificial <strong>in</strong>telligence (AI), generative<br />
art, robotic art, NFTs and immersive art experiences.<br />
Themes explored by <strong>the</strong> artists<br />
and collectives on show <strong>in</strong>clude <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tersection<br />
of technology and spirituality; digital approaches<br />
to heritage preservation; and <strong>the</strong><br />
empowerment of women artists. Highlights<br />
will <strong>in</strong>clude a unique presentation by 1 of 1<br />
platform, founded by Ryan Zurrer and which<br />
def<strong>in</strong>es 21st-century artworks will present<br />
<strong>the</strong> exceptional talent of female digital artists<br />
IX Shells and Auriea Harvey; Unit London will<br />
explore <strong>the</strong> human body through <strong>the</strong> digital<br />
perspectives of Krista Kim, L<strong>in</strong>da Dounia,<br />
and Studio Meeson; and bitforms will feature<br />
Manfred Mohr, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, and<br />
Refik Anadol.<br />
A fur<strong>the</strong>r highlight will be {R(Evolutionaries);},<br />
a groundbreak<strong>in</strong>g exhibition from<br />
<strong>the</strong> Dubai-based platform MORROW collective.<br />
Celebrat<strong>in</strong>g ten years of blockcha<strong>in</strong> art,<br />
<strong>the</strong> presentation will focus on <strong>the</strong> pioneers<br />
and lead<strong>in</strong>g figures who have shaped this<br />
space, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g orig<strong>in</strong>al genesis pieces<br />
and re-imag<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>gs of historic work, alongside<br />
new creations.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
57
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
58 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Brushstrokes <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Digital Chaos<br />
Ben<br />
Labuzzetta Artist<br />
From <strong>the</strong> earliest days of his youth, Ben has been entranced by <strong>the</strong> world of athletes and<br />
<strong>the</strong> emblematic numbers that def<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong>m. His profound fasc<strong>in</strong>ation with sports, coupled<br />
with a pioneer<strong>in</strong>g technique utiliz<strong>in</strong>g thick acrylics, has given birth to a remarkable series<br />
known as <strong>the</strong> “Numbers” collection. With<strong>in</strong> this collection, Ben embarks on a visual journey<br />
that encapsulates <strong>the</strong> essence of 30 iconic numbers, pay<strong>in</strong>g homage to both historical and<br />
contemporary figures <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> world of sports.<br />
The “Numbers” series is more than just<br />
a visual representation of numerals;<br />
it is a narrative crafted with passion,<br />
skill, and an unwaver<strong>in</strong>g love for<br />
sports. Each pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> this collection is an<br />
exploration of a specific number, <strong>in</strong>tricately<br />
<strong>the</strong>med around <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>dividual associated<br />
with it. Through <strong>the</strong> medium of thick acrylics,<br />
Ben creates a tactile and vibrant experience<br />
that goes beyond <strong>the</strong> two-dimensional surface,<br />
br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> essence of each number<br />
and its correspond<strong>in</strong>g athlete to life.<br />
The dist<strong>in</strong>ctive technique employed by<br />
Ben <strong>in</strong>volves <strong>the</strong> lavish use of thick acrylics,<br />
provid<strong>in</strong>g a unique texture and depth to his<br />
creations. This departure from traditional<br />
methods contributes to <strong>the</strong> series’ visual impact,<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g a dynamic <strong>in</strong>terplay between<br />
color, form, and symbolism. The result is a<br />
collection that not only pays homage to <strong>the</strong><br />
numerical legacy of athletes but also captures<br />
<strong>the</strong> energy and spirit of <strong>the</strong> sports<br />
world.<br />
Every pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> “Numbers” series<br />
is a meticulously crafted composition, <strong>in</strong>tricately<br />
designed to <strong>in</strong>corporate elements that<br />
are deeply connected to <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>dividual athlete.<br />
These elements serve as visual cues,<br />
offer<strong>in</strong>g a narrative with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> broader context<br />
of <strong>the</strong> sports world. It is a celebration<br />
of athletic achievement, a visual ode to <strong>the</strong><br />
legends who have left an <strong>in</strong>delible mark on<br />
<strong>the</strong> games <strong>the</strong>y played.<br />
Ben’s <strong>in</strong>novative approach to blend<strong>in</strong>g<br />
sports and art brea<strong>the</strong>s life <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> numbers<br />
that def<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong> legacies of athletes. The<br />
“Numbers” collection stands as a testament<br />
to <strong>the</strong> artist’s commitment to push<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><br />
boundaries of creativity and pay<strong>in</strong>g homage<br />
to <strong>the</strong> iconic figures who have shaped <strong>the</strong><br />
world of sports. Through his dist<strong>in</strong>ctive style<br />
and <strong>the</strong>matic exploration, Ben creates more<br />
than art; he creates an immersive experience<br />
that resonates with sports enthusiasts<br />
and art aficionados alike.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
59
CELEBRATING SUCCESS: DIVYA<br />
CHAKRA <strong>2023</strong> UNVEILS<br />
ESTEEMED INDIAN BUSINESS<br />
AWARDEES IN UAE<br />
DIVYA CHAKRA ‘23<br />
In <strong>the</strong> radiant aftermath of <strong>the</strong> Divya<br />
Chakra event’s second edition, <strong>the</strong> air still<br />
resonates with <strong>the</strong> harmonious blend of<br />
cultural richness and bus<strong>in</strong>ess brilliance.<br />
Organized under <strong>the</strong> esteemed patronage<br />
of <strong>the</strong> Consulate General of India <strong>in</strong> Dubai<br />
and <strong>in</strong> collaboration with <strong>Magzoid</strong> <strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong>,<br />
<strong>the</strong> gala unfolded at <strong>the</strong> Taj Exotica Resort<br />
& Spa, The Palm, Dubai, on November 25.<br />
With an illustrious assembly of bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />
leaders, artists, and performers, <strong>the</strong> event<br />
elevated itself beyond a mere awards ceremony,<br />
embody<strong>in</strong>g a testament to <strong>the</strong> endur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
partnership and mutual respect between<br />
India and <strong>the</strong> UAE. It was an exclusive, <strong>in</strong>vite-only<br />
affair, spark<strong>in</strong>g anticipation and<br />
attract<strong>in</strong>g high-profile attendees from across<br />
<strong>the</strong> globe.<br />
The second edition of Divya Chakra exceeded<br />
expectations, leav<strong>in</strong>g an <strong>in</strong>delible<br />
mark on <strong>the</strong> Indo-UAE community. The<br />
event’s emcees, Sakshi Gautam and Punit<br />
H Lalwani, skillfully hosted <strong>the</strong> prestigious<br />
Divya Chakra Awards, shedd<strong>in</strong>g light on <strong>the</strong><br />
outstand<strong>in</strong>g contributions of Indian bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />
leaders to <strong>the</strong> UAE economy. The even<strong>in</strong>g<br />
was fur<strong>the</strong>r enriched by captivat<strong>in</strong>g art exhibits<br />
and cultural performances that captivated<br />
<strong>the</strong> audience.<br />
Mr. Satish Kumar Sivan, <strong>the</strong> newly appo<strong>in</strong>ted<br />
Consul General of India to Dubai and <strong>the</strong><br />
Nor<strong>the</strong>rn Emirates, aptly captured <strong>the</strong> spirit<br />
of Divya Chakra, stat<strong>in</strong>g, ‘The event embodies<br />
<strong>the</strong> essence of collaboration and excellence,<br />
reflect<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> vibrant ties between<br />
India and <strong>the</strong> UAE. It stands as a beacon,<br />
foster<strong>in</strong>g mutual understand<strong>in</strong>g and friendship,<br />
transcend<strong>in</strong>g borders for a shared future<br />
of prosperity and cultural enrichment.’<br />
This exclusive affair not only showcased<br />
cultural opulence but also celebrated bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />
achievements, fur<strong>the</strong>r streng<strong>the</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g<br />
economic ties between <strong>the</strong> two nations. The<br />
event’s success was made possible by <strong>the</strong><br />
collaborative efforts of sponsors, partners,<br />
and supporters who played pivotal roles <strong>in</strong><br />
shap<strong>in</strong>g this grand celebration.
Divya Chakra extends s<strong>in</strong>cere thanks to<br />
its Gold Sponsors - Ifund Factor<strong>in</strong>g, Wasaya,<br />
Bricks and Wood, H<strong>in</strong>d Al Oud, and Silver<br />
Sponsors - OOKA and GL. The collaborative<br />
efforts of partners, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Not so Subtle<br />
(PR Partner), VVS Celebrations (Gift<strong>in</strong>g Partner),<br />
Ravash<strong>in</strong>g Events (Strategic Partner),<br />
and support<strong>in</strong>g partners, played a pivotal<br />
role <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> event’s success. This annual<br />
celebration serves as a testament to <strong>the</strong><br />
accomplishments of <strong>the</strong> Indian bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />
community <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UAE, foster<strong>in</strong>g stronger<br />
ties between <strong>the</strong> two nations through cultural<br />
exchange and recognition of bus<strong>in</strong>ess excellence.<br />
Divya Chakra leaves beh<strong>in</strong>d an endur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
legacy of collaboration and partnership,<br />
sett<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> stage for cont<strong>in</strong>ued growth<br />
and prosperity.<br />
As <strong>the</strong> vibrant echoes of <strong>the</strong> Divya Chakra<br />
event resonate, its profound impact on Indo-UAE<br />
relations l<strong>in</strong>gers. This grand celebration,<br />
held under <strong>the</strong> esteemed patronage<br />
of <strong>the</strong> Consulate General of India <strong>in</strong> Dubai<br />
and <strong>in</strong> collaboration with <strong>Magzoid</strong> <strong>Magaz<strong>in</strong>e</strong>,<br />
not only honored <strong>the</strong> accomplishments<br />
of Indian bus<strong>in</strong>ess leaders but also forged<br />
endur<strong>in</strong>g cultural ties. With a diverse array of<br />
w<strong>in</strong>ners, rang<strong>in</strong>g from bus<strong>in</strong>ess magnates to<br />
cul<strong>in</strong>ary maestros, Divya Chakra showcased<br />
<strong>the</strong> depth and breadth of Indian excellence<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UAE. The collaborative efforts of sponsors,<br />
partners, and supporters played a pivotal<br />
role <strong>in</strong> mak<strong>in</strong>g this event a resound<strong>in</strong>g<br />
success. Divya Chakra leaves a last<strong>in</strong>g legacy<br />
of collaboration, partnership, and cultural<br />
exchange, sett<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> stage for cont<strong>in</strong>ued<br />
growth, prosperity, and streng<strong>the</strong>ned bonds<br />
between India and <strong>the</strong> UAE.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
63
DIVYA CHAKRA ‘23<br />
CONGRATULATIONS<br />
WINNERS<br />
P.N.C MEMON<br />
Founder and Chairman<br />
Sobha Reality<br />
Founder of Sobha Group, is celebrated for<br />
his commitment to quality and social responsibility.<br />
Start<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Oman, he expanded<br />
<strong>in</strong>to Indian real estate, establish<strong>in</strong>g Sobha<br />
Developers. Known for a backward-<strong>in</strong>tegrated<br />
bus<strong>in</strong>ess model, his philanthropy<br />
<strong>in</strong>cludes major contributions to various<br />
charitable <strong>in</strong>itiatives.<br />
ZULEKHA DAUD<br />
Founder and Chairperson<br />
Zulekha Healthcare Group<br />
The first female Indian medical professional<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UAE, founded Zulekha Hospital,<br />
revolutioniz<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> region’s healthcare.<br />
Her contributions extend beyond healthcare,<br />
<strong>in</strong>spir<strong>in</strong>g female entrepreneurs and<br />
address<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> shortage of female doctors<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Middle East.<br />
ALI ASGAR<br />
FAKHRUDDIN<br />
Chairman<br />
Sterl<strong>in</strong>g Perfumes<br />
<strong>in</strong>tegral to Fakhrudd<strong>in</strong> Hold<strong>in</strong>gs’ growth,<br />
has significantly shaped its trajectory over<br />
60 years. Found<strong>in</strong>g its manufactur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
arm, he leads Sterl<strong>in</strong>g Parfums and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
subsidiaries, emphasiz<strong>in</strong>g philanthropy and<br />
susta<strong>in</strong>able practices. Under his leadership,<br />
Sterl<strong>in</strong>g has earned accolades <strong>in</strong> digital<br />
<strong>in</strong>novation and leadership.<br />
ABDULLA AJMAL<br />
CEO<br />
Ajmal Perfumes<br />
A Mumbai-born entrepreneur, moved to<br />
UAE <strong>in</strong> 1988 and studied market<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
UK. As Ajmal Perfumes’ key figure, he’s<br />
advanc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> brand globally, mentored<br />
by Jacques Chabert. Collaborat<strong>in</strong>g with<br />
perfumers like Dom<strong>in</strong>ique Ropion, Abdulla’s<br />
efforts have earned <strong>in</strong>ternational recognition,<br />
transform<strong>in</strong>g Ajmal <strong>in</strong>to a premium<br />
lifestyle brand.<br />
VIKAS PANCHAL<br />
General Manager, Middle East<br />
Tally Solutions<br />
A leader <strong>in</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess software s<strong>in</strong>ce 1986,<br />
has revolutionized ERP solutions globally.<br />
With over 2.3 million licenses <strong>in</strong> 100 countries,<br />
<strong>the</strong> company’s tech stack offers unparalleled<br />
speed and <strong>in</strong>sights, mak<strong>in</strong>g it a<br />
preferred choice for bus<strong>in</strong>esses worldwide.<br />
64 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
CONGRATULATIONS<br />
WINNERS<br />
RAVEENA DEVNANI<br />
CEO & Founder<br />
Ravash<strong>in</strong>g Events<br />
CEO of Ravash<strong>in</strong>g Exhibitions & Events,<br />
with over 25 years of global experience, has<br />
elevated Dubai’s MICE <strong>in</strong>dustry. Her company<br />
specializes <strong>in</strong> B2B and B2C events,<br />
emphasiz<strong>in</strong>g customer-centric services and<br />
relationship management.<br />
HARSH PATEL<br />
Founder & Global CEO<br />
Water and Shark<br />
UAE’s youngest f<strong>in</strong>ance and legal icon,<br />
leads Water and Shark, specializ<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />
cross-border deals and tax plann<strong>in</strong>g. A<br />
chartered accountant and lawyer, he’s<br />
recognized for his <strong>in</strong>novative approach <strong>in</strong><br />
f<strong>in</strong>ance and law, earn<strong>in</strong>g numerous accolades,<br />
<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Forbes India’s honors.<br />
VASHU SHROFF<br />
Chairperson<br />
Regal Group<br />
A textile magnate <strong>in</strong> Dubai for over 50<br />
years, founded <strong>the</strong> Regal Group. His<br />
journey from humble beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>gs to success<br />
<strong>in</strong> various sectors exemplifies hard work<br />
and honesty. Committed to philanthropy,<br />
he actively participates <strong>in</strong> community and<br />
social work.<br />
ANKUR AGGARWAL<br />
CEO & Founder<br />
Bricks n Woods Real Estate<br />
CEO of Bricks N Woods, br<strong>in</strong>gs over 16<br />
years of f<strong>in</strong>ancial expertise. Manag<strong>in</strong>g<br />
15.4 billion AED <strong>in</strong> assets, his firm, co-led<br />
with Vivek Oberoi, stands out <strong>in</strong> UAE’s<br />
real estate sector. Ankur’s leadership has<br />
positioned Bricks N Woods as a pioneer<strong>in</strong>g<br />
f<strong>in</strong>ancial entity.<br />
RANVEER BRAR<br />
Celebrity Chef<br />
Kashkan Restaurant<br />
With a career spann<strong>in</strong>g three decades, is a<br />
celebrated figure <strong>in</strong> India’s cul<strong>in</strong>ary scene.<br />
A MasterChef India judge and author,<br />
his work <strong>in</strong> prestigious hotel groups and<br />
television has significantly <strong>in</strong>fluenced Indian<br />
cuis<strong>in</strong>e globally.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
65
KNOWLEDGE BASE<br />
NAVIGATING THE<br />
YEAR’S END: A GUIDE<br />
FOR ARTISTS<br />
As <strong>the</strong> curta<strong>in</strong> descends on ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
year, artists f<strong>in</strong>d <strong>the</strong>mselves at<br />
a pivotal juncture—a moment for<br />
reflection, renewal, and strategic<br />
plann<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>the</strong> creative journey ahead.<br />
Here are essential steps for artists to consider<br />
as <strong>the</strong>y approach <strong>the</strong> end of <strong>the</strong> year, ensur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a harmonious transition <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> next<br />
chapter of <strong>the</strong>ir artistic endeavors.<br />
1. Reflect on Your Artistic Journey:<br />
Take a moment to reflect on your artistic<br />
evolution throughout <strong>the</strong> year. Celebrate<br />
milestones, acknowledge challenges, and<br />
appreciate <strong>the</strong> growth that has taken place.<br />
Consider <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>mes, techniques, and mediums<br />
explored, and how <strong>the</strong>se experiences<br />
have shaped your artistic identity.<br />
2. Review and Organize Your Portfolio:<br />
Analyze your body of work with a critical<br />
eye. Assess <strong>the</strong> cohesion of your portfolio,<br />
identify<strong>in</strong>g recurr<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>mes or styles. Consider<br />
retir<strong>in</strong>g pieces that no longer align with<br />
your artistic vision and update your portfolio<br />
to showcase your latest and most representative<br />
works.<br />
3. Evaluate Artistic Goals:<br />
Review <strong>the</strong> goals you set at <strong>the</strong> beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g<br />
of <strong>the</strong> year. Assess which objectives were<br />
achieved, which evolved, and identify any<br />
that may have shifted. Use this evaluation<br />
to <strong>in</strong>form your goal-sett<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>the</strong> upcom<strong>in</strong>g<br />
year, ensur<strong>in</strong>g that your aspirations align<br />
with your current artistic trajectory.<br />
4. Document and Archive:<br />
Ensure that your artistic journey is<br />
well-documented. Back up digital files, organize<br />
physical artwork, and ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> a<br />
comprehensive <strong>in</strong>ventory. Proper documentation<br />
not only preserves your work but also<br />
facilitates <strong>the</strong> preparation of portfolios, exhibition<br />
submissions, and o<strong>the</strong>r professional<br />
opportunities.<br />
5. Cultivate Your Digital Presence:<br />
In <strong>the</strong> digital age, ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g a strong onl<strong>in</strong>e<br />
presence is crucial. Update your artist<br />
website, portfolio platforms, and social media<br />
profiles. Curate an engag<strong>in</strong>g narrative<br />
that reflects your artistic identity, shar<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>in</strong>sights <strong>in</strong>to your creative process, recent<br />
works, and any upcom<strong>in</strong>g projects or exhibitions.<br />
70 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
6. F<strong>in</strong>ancial and Adm<strong>in</strong>istrative Check-In:<br />
Artistic pursuits often <strong>in</strong>volve f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />
considerations. Take stock of your f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />
situation, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>come, expenses, and<br />
<strong>in</strong>vestments <strong>in</strong> your art practice. Ensure that<br />
<strong>in</strong>voices are up to date, and consider consult<strong>in</strong>g<br />
with f<strong>in</strong>ancial professionals to optimize<br />
your f<strong>in</strong>ancial strategy.<br />
7. Plan for Professional Development:<br />
Invest <strong>in</strong> your artistic growth by plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />
for professional development opportunities.<br />
Explore workshops, courses, or mentorship<br />
programs that align with your artistic goals.<br />
Cont<strong>in</strong>uous learn<strong>in</strong>g not only enhances your<br />
skills but also broadens your artistic perspective.<br />
8. Connect with <strong>the</strong> Arts Community:<br />
The end of <strong>the</strong> year is an ideal time to<br />
engage with <strong>the</strong> arts community. Attend exhibitions,<br />
art fairs, or network<strong>in</strong>g events to<br />
connect with fellow artists, curators, and art<br />
enthusiasts. Build<strong>in</strong>g and susta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>se<br />
connections can open doors to collaborative<br />
opportunities and enrich your artistic<br />
network.<br />
9. Set New Artistic Intentions:<br />
As you step <strong>in</strong>to a new year, set clear <strong>in</strong>tentions<br />
for your artistic practice. Def<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>mes, projects, or challenges you wish<br />
to explore. Establish a roadmap that aligns<br />
with your overarch<strong>in</strong>g artistic vision, foster<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a sense of purpose and direction for <strong>the</strong><br />
months ahead.<br />
10. Practice Self-Care:<br />
Amidst <strong>the</strong> hustle of artistic pursuits, prioritize<br />
self-care. Take time to rest, rejuvenate,<br />
and nourish your creativity. Whe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
it’s through meditation, nature walks, or o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
personal rituals, honor<strong>in</strong>g your well-be<strong>in</strong>g<br />
ensures susta<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong>spiration and resilience<br />
throughout your artistic journey.<br />
As artists navigate <strong>the</strong> end of <strong>the</strong> year,<br />
embrac<strong>in</strong>g a holistic approach that encompasses<br />
reflection, organization, and strategic<br />
plann<strong>in</strong>g sets <strong>the</strong> stage for a fulfill<strong>in</strong>g<br />
and purpose-driven artistic future. May this<br />
transitional period be a time of <strong>in</strong>spiration,<br />
renewal, and anticipation for <strong>the</strong> creative<br />
possibilities that lie ahead.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
71
FEATURED ARTIST<br />
72 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
Exclusive<br />
Mark<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Canvas: Cameron Mark’s Artistic Odyssey <strong>in</strong> Character Design and Beyond<br />
Cameron MarkArtist<br />
Cameron Mark, a dynamic and passionate designer, stands at <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tersection of creativity<br />
and <strong>in</strong>novation, br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g a wealth of experience and expertise to <strong>the</strong> vibrant landscape of<br />
visual storytell<strong>in</strong>g. Based <strong>in</strong> Toronto, Canada, Cameron’s journey as a Lead Designer/Art Director<br />
for Bitmoji has been a testament to his dedication and talent, leav<strong>in</strong>g an <strong>in</strong>delible mark<br />
on <strong>the</strong> world of character design.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
With an impressive 8 years of experience<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> field, Cameron<br />
has shaped and def<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>the</strong><br />
visual identities of characters,<br />
props, and environments. His role as a Lead<br />
Designer has allowed him to collaborate<br />
with powerhouse clients, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g enterta<strong>in</strong>ment<br />
giants such as Disney, Marvel, DC,<br />
Pixar, HBO, and more. Cameron’s creative<br />
f<strong>in</strong>gerpr<strong>in</strong>t extends to <strong>the</strong> realm of animation,<br />
where he has lent his skills to freelance<br />
character design work for notable shows like<br />
Netflix’s LOVE DEATH + ROBOTS.<br />
Cameron’s expertise is not conf<strong>in</strong>ed to<br />
corporate collaborations; he has also cultivated<br />
a personal passion for illustration,<br />
carv<strong>in</strong>g out a niche where his creativity<br />
knows no bounds. His personal illustrations<br />
are a canvas for self-expression, where he<br />
can explore and experiment beyond <strong>the</strong><br />
constra<strong>in</strong>ts of client projects. This duality of<br />
professional and personal creative pursuits<br />
underscores Cameron’s commitment to <strong>the</strong><br />
art form.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> realm of enterta<strong>in</strong>ment and storytell<strong>in</strong>g,<br />
Cameron’s <strong>in</strong>fluence reaches far and<br />
wide. His work has left an impact on <strong>the</strong> digital<br />
landscape, shap<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> visual language<br />
of beloved characters and immersive environments.<br />
The collaborations with <strong>in</strong>dustry<br />
giants stand as a testament to his ability to<br />
translate imag<strong>in</strong>ative concepts <strong>in</strong>to compell<strong>in</strong>g<br />
visual narratives.<br />
Beyond <strong>the</strong> digital canvas, Cameron’s <strong>in</strong>terests<br />
span <strong>the</strong> diverse realms of gam<strong>in</strong>g,<br />
animated shows, films, and manga. This<br />
multidimensional engagement with various<br />
forms of visual storytell<strong>in</strong>g enriches his<br />
perspective and <strong>in</strong>forms his approach to<br />
design. As a creative soul, Cameron f<strong>in</strong>ds<br />
<strong>in</strong>spiration <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> vast tapestry of storytell<strong>in</strong>g<br />
mediums, contribut<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> depth and diversity<br />
of his artistic expressions.<br />
Cameron Mark is not just a designer; he is<br />
a storyteller who weaves narratives through<br />
<strong>the</strong> strokes of his designs. His dedication to<br />
both professional endeavors and personal<br />
artistic explorations showcases a holistic<br />
approach to creativity. In <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tricate dance<br />
between corporate collaborations and personal<br />
passion projects, Cameron cont<strong>in</strong>ues<br />
to make his mark, creat<strong>in</strong>g a visual legacy<br />
that resonates with audiences and fellow<br />
creatives alike.<br />
73
CONVERSATIONS<br />
How did <strong>the</strong> collaborative relationship between Nima Nabavi<br />
and Jason Seife evolve for <strong>the</strong> “Duality” exhibition? What<br />
unique aspects did each artist br<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> table, and how did<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir <strong>in</strong>dividual approaches <strong>in</strong>tersect with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me of duality?<br />
We orig<strong>in</strong>ally met when we were both exhibit<strong>in</strong>g artists at <strong>the</strong><br />
Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival <strong>in</strong> 2018. At <strong>the</strong> time we were both<br />
relatively new to <strong>the</strong> art world, and as self-taught artists we found a<br />
lot of commonalities <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> path that we were both on. We stayed <strong>in</strong><br />
touch after <strong>the</strong> festival and made a habit of shar<strong>in</strong>g our learn<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong><br />
our burgeon<strong>in</strong>g careers – everyth<strong>in</strong>g from <strong>the</strong> creative processes,<br />
mediums, and materials, to <strong>the</strong> nuances of navigat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />
side of art. Over <strong>the</strong> next five years, we developed a strong<br />
and trust<strong>in</strong>g friendship and became very familiar with each o<strong>the</strong>r’s<br />
practices.<br />
With<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>se many conversations, <strong>the</strong> idea of collaborat<strong>in</strong>g with<br />
one ano<strong>the</strong>r on a show was germ<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g but <strong>the</strong> challenge was to<br />
imag<strong>in</strong>e a means of do<strong>in</strong>g so when we both lived and worked <strong>in</strong><br />
different cities. Eventually <strong>in</strong> 2022, we started discuss<strong>in</strong>g a show<br />
where works would be made <strong>in</strong> pairs of identically sized and<br />
shaped canvases that shared similarities <strong>in</strong> structural composition<br />
and/or color palette. We wanted to create reflective works that<br />
conversed with one ano<strong>the</strong>r - tell<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> same stories, but <strong>in</strong> different<br />
visual languages<br />
The exhibition seems to explore both literal and metaphorical<br />
<strong>in</strong>terpretations of duality. Could you delve <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> conceptual<br />
framework beh<strong>in</strong>d <strong>the</strong> choice of <strong>the</strong> title “Duality” and how it<br />
manifests <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> artistic expressions of Nabavi and Seife?<br />
There are many def<strong>in</strong>itions of Duality, but for us <strong>the</strong> focus was on<br />
<strong>the</strong> idea of a system that seem<strong>in</strong>gly conta<strong>in</strong>s two differ<strong>in</strong>g halves,<br />
but actually exists <strong>in</strong> harmony as a unified whole. A simpler way to<br />
put it would be, “two sides to <strong>the</strong> same co<strong>in</strong>”. We wanted to create<br />
an exhibition that felt complete and s<strong>in</strong>gular, while conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />
works from two different artists <strong>in</strong> a f<strong>in</strong>e balance. This would be <strong>the</strong><br />
metaphorical <strong>in</strong>terpretation of Duality.<br />
In a very literal sense though, <strong>the</strong> works were made <strong>in</strong> pairs as<br />
duos, one from each artist. Even <strong>the</strong> centerpiece and f<strong>in</strong>al work,<br />
NOON, which is a comb<strong>in</strong>ed artwork – is created from 4 <strong>in</strong>dividual<br />
pieces, two from each artist – a literal dual dual.<br />
74 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
HARMONIZING PERSPECTIVES: A DIALOGUE ON DUALITY WITH<br />
Nima Nabavi<br />
and Jason Seife<br />
Embark on a captivat<strong>in</strong>g conversation with artists Nima Nabavi and Jason Seife as <strong>the</strong>y <strong>in</strong>vite us <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong><br />
enchant<strong>in</strong>g world of <strong>the</strong>ir collaborative exhibition, “Duality.” What <strong>in</strong>itiated as a fortuitous meet<strong>in</strong>g at <strong>the</strong> Sharjah<br />
Islamic Arts Festival <strong>in</strong> 2018 has burgeoned <strong>in</strong>to a profound artistic journey over <strong>the</strong> past five years. Jo<strong>in</strong> us as<br />
Nima and Jason unravel <strong>the</strong> threads of <strong>the</strong>ir creative partnership, overcom<strong>in</strong>g geographical distances to craft<br />
artworks that harmonize on <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me of duality. Engage <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> dialogue surround<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> conceptual genesis of<br />
<strong>the</strong> exhibition’s title and witness how it comes alive through <strong>the</strong> dist<strong>in</strong>ct visual languages of Nabavi and Seife.<br />
Explore <strong>the</strong> silent conductor of geometry <strong>in</strong> ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>dividuality with<strong>in</strong> shared proportions, and delve <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong><br />
significance of pal<strong>in</strong>dromic titles that mirror <strong>the</strong> very essence of duality. Immerse yourself <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> fasc<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g clash<br />
of Seife’s bold flatness and Nabavi’s <strong>in</strong>tricate layer<strong>in</strong>g, where unique techniques <strong>in</strong>tertw<strong>in</strong>e to narrate a story of<br />
complexity and symmetry. This conversation unfolds <strong>the</strong> captivat<strong>in</strong>g synergy born when two artistic m<strong>in</strong>ds converge,<br />
celebrat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>herent beauty discovered with<strong>in</strong> duality.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
75
CONVERSATIONS<br />
Geometry appears to be a common ground for Nabavi and<br />
Seife. How did <strong>the</strong>y navigate <strong>the</strong> challenge of ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>in</strong>dividuality <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir works while adher<strong>in</strong>g to shared foundational<br />
proportions? How did geometry <strong>in</strong>fluence <strong>the</strong>ir artistic<br />
dialogue?<br />
To mitigate <strong>the</strong> contrast<strong>in</strong>g methodologies of our <strong>in</strong>dividual<br />
practices, we relied heavily on <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>visible geometric grids that<br />
underp<strong>in</strong>ned both of our approaches. Through many conversations<br />
and a variety of experiments, we were able to f<strong>in</strong>d a means<br />
of establish<strong>in</strong>g anchor<strong>in</strong>g start<strong>in</strong>g po<strong>in</strong>ts, from which we would<br />
both build our f<strong>in</strong>al works. These geometric scaffolds allowed us<br />
a common language that would bridge <strong>the</strong> divide <strong>in</strong> our <strong>in</strong>dividual<br />
techniques. This is how we were able to each work <strong>in</strong> our own<br />
styles while rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g creatively te<strong>the</strong>red to <strong>the</strong> same source and<br />
to one ano<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
76 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
The titles of <strong>the</strong> artworks are described as evocative pal<strong>in</strong>dromes<br />
shared between pair<strong>in</strong>gs. Could you elaborate on <strong>the</strong><br />
significance of <strong>the</strong>se titles? How do <strong>the</strong>y contribute to <strong>the</strong><br />
overarch<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>me of commonality and departure with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
exhibition?<br />
We each use our own unique nam<strong>in</strong>g conventions for our artworks:<br />
Jason’s titles often reference books or music that he is<br />
engag<strong>in</strong>g with while work<strong>in</strong>g on a particular piece while Nima’s<br />
titles are simply <strong>the</strong> dates when <strong>the</strong> works were completed. For this<br />
collaboration, we felt we needed a new nam<strong>in</strong>g convention that<br />
was mean<strong>in</strong>gful to <strong>the</strong> essence of <strong>the</strong> exhibition. The idea to use<br />
pal<strong>in</strong>dromes was a nod to <strong>the</strong> notion of see<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> same th<strong>in</strong>g from<br />
two different perspectives. The titles of <strong>the</strong> works; Tenet, Level,<br />
Civic, Radar and Noon all rema<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> same whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y are read<br />
forwards or backwards. For us, it was less about <strong>the</strong> mean<strong>in</strong>gs<br />
of <strong>the</strong> actual words and more about <strong>the</strong> design structure of each<br />
word, <strong>the</strong> symmetry of <strong>the</strong>ir mirrored build<strong>in</strong>g blocks.<br />
Both artists, Nabavi and Seife, seem to employ different mediums<br />
and techniques. How did <strong>the</strong> stark differences <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
approaches, such as Seife’s bold flatness and Nabavi’s <strong>in</strong>tricate<br />
layer<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>in</strong>fluence <strong>the</strong> overall aes<strong>the</strong>tic of <strong>the</strong> exhibition?<br />
How did <strong>the</strong>se differences create a symbiotic relationship <strong>in</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> artistic narrative?<br />
The resonant commonality <strong>in</strong> our works is <strong>the</strong> complexity and<br />
detail that exists with<strong>in</strong> a very ordered and symmetric composition.<br />
Each of us employs color <strong>in</strong> our own way, Jason mix<strong>in</strong>g his<br />
on a palette before apply<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>m by brush to a smooth flat f<strong>in</strong>ish<br />
on canvas, while Nima builds his up one l<strong>in</strong>e-layer at a time with<br />
rulered pen strokes directly on <strong>the</strong> f<strong>in</strong>al surface. We are essentially<br />
us<strong>in</strong>g different tools and methods to build our own unique renditions<br />
of <strong>the</strong> same idea. We feel however that <strong>the</strong> difference <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
resultant aes<strong>the</strong>tic of <strong>the</strong> pieces actually works to highlights <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
po<strong>in</strong>ts of similarity. Each <strong>in</strong>dividual work <strong>in</strong> a pair may have its own<br />
unique manifestation, but <strong>the</strong>ir essence rema<strong>in</strong>s <strong>the</strong> same.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
77
Welcome to <strong>the</strong> all-new Designer’s Corner,<br />
an excit<strong>in</strong>g space divided <strong>in</strong>to four captivat<strong>in</strong>g segments
ABOUT TIME<br />
NOBILE<br />
CHRONOGRAPH LADY<br />
FALL/WINTER <strong>2023</strong> WATCHES COLLECTION<br />
80 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
Designed with PHILIPP PLEIN’s signature<br />
precision and attention to detail,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Nobile Chronograph Lady<br />
is <strong>the</strong> sportiest look <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> PHILIPP<br />
PLEIN Fall/W<strong>in</strong>ter <strong>2023</strong> collection. Its unique<br />
codes and extraord<strong>in</strong>ary aes<strong>the</strong>tics are <strong>the</strong><br />
perfect embodiment of <strong>the</strong> Maison’s DNA.<br />
This fem<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>e timepiece reflects <strong>the</strong> discern<strong>in</strong>g<br />
tastes and bold visions of those who<br />
seek to make a statement. Crafted with an<br />
ultra-modern sensibility, it artfully blends a<br />
sporty and elegant soul, result<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> a watch<br />
that is as versatile as it is beautiful.<br />
The case, measur<strong>in</strong>g 38mm <strong>in</strong> diameter,<br />
is offered <strong>in</strong> ei<strong>the</strong>r IP gold or sta<strong>in</strong>less steel,<br />
with <strong>the</strong> option of a ra<strong>in</strong>bow baguette crystal<br />
bezel creat<strong>in</strong>g a stunn<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>terplay of<br />
hues and contrasts that is sure to capture<br />
<strong>the</strong> attention of all who behold it. The dial is<br />
adorned with sparkl<strong>in</strong>g multicolour crystal<br />
<strong>in</strong>dexes that elevate this model to <strong>the</strong> latest<br />
fashion.<br />
The new PHILIPP PLEIN Nobile Chronograph<br />
Lady collection will be on sale from<br />
October onl<strong>in</strong>e and at authorized retailers.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
81
BLING BOW<br />
This year, Akillis expresses more strongly its love of life and<br />
its respect for talent and creates, for <strong>the</strong> first time, a capsule<br />
collection <strong>in</strong> collaboration with <strong>the</strong> artist: Zoulliart.<br />
ZoulliArt is a pa<strong>in</strong>ter-sculptor born <strong>in</strong> 1996, based <strong>in</strong> France.<br />
His artistic impr<strong>in</strong>t ignites a whole generation, he masters <strong>the</strong><br />
spray can and colors with virtuosity.<br />
With his imag<strong>in</strong>ation, his pop art and urban <strong>in</strong>fluences, ZoulliArt<br />
takes for us <strong>the</strong> features of mythical characters of <strong>the</strong> contemporary<br />
world.<br />
82 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
For this collaboration, <strong>the</strong> Fatal Attraction and LoveTag pendants<br />
<strong>in</strong> black Titanium are dressed <strong>in</strong> a ra<strong>in</strong> of colors.<br />
Between a playful and artistic spirit, <strong>the</strong> pa<strong>in</strong>ter Zoulliart<br />
had fun creat<strong>in</strong>g unique pieces, each made by hand. A limited<br />
edition will <strong>the</strong>refore be available <strong>in</strong> our boutique at 354 Rue<br />
Sa<strong>in</strong>t-Honoré as well as a selection of partners.<br />
An artist who never ceases to amaze with colorful and ever<br />
more orig<strong>in</strong>al pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> September <strong>2023</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
83
ON FOOT<br />
The smooth moulded exoskeleton elevates<br />
<strong>the</strong> tactile experience, add<strong>in</strong>g a new dimension<br />
to <strong>the</strong> familiar TN98 silhouette. Dual brand<strong>in</strong>g<br />
takes center stage, manifest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> various forms<br />
– from transparent UV f<strong>in</strong>ishes to laser-etched logos,<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g a strik<strong>in</strong>gly m<strong>in</strong>imal aes<strong>the</strong>tic with<br />
meticulous detail<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
What sets this iteration apart is <strong>the</strong> premium<br />
full-gra<strong>in</strong> two-tone lea<strong>the</strong>r, reveal<strong>in</strong>g subtle<br />
colors that add depth and character. The <strong>the</strong>rmo-moulded<br />
TN98 exoskeleton enhances <strong>the</strong><br />
overall texture, creat<strong>in</strong>g a visual and tactile feast<br />
for sneaker enthusiasts.<br />
Precise detail<strong>in</strong>g takes <strong>the</strong> spotlight with<br />
laser-etched lateral swoosh and a compact<br />
square detail, showcas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> commitment to<br />
craftsmanship. The concealed ACW* bracket<br />
logo beneath a ridged TPU heel plate adds an<br />
element of surprise for <strong>the</strong> discern<strong>in</strong>g sneaker<br />
enthusiast.<br />
As you tread confidently on <strong>the</strong> translucent<br />
rubber outsole, <strong>the</strong> material contrast comes to<br />
life, offer<strong>in</strong>g a unique visual experience with every<br />
step. The bespoke dual-branded sockl<strong>in</strong>ers<br />
and packag<strong>in</strong>g complete <strong>the</strong> ensemble, creat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a sense of exclusivity for those who appreciate<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tersection of style and substance.<br />
Not just a style statement, <strong>the</strong> TN98 embraces<br />
susta<strong>in</strong>ability with a recycled content TPU<br />
featur<strong>in</strong>g a l<strong>in</strong>ear pattern at <strong>the</strong> fox<strong>in</strong>g. The<br />
matte, frosted TPU tip and <strong>the</strong> aged f<strong>in</strong>ish along<br />
comfort air bag units add a touch of v<strong>in</strong>tage<br />
charm to <strong>the</strong> modern design.<br />
Ty<strong>in</strong>g it all toge<strong>the</strong>r are <strong>the</strong> durable staytight<br />
flat woven laces, ensur<strong>in</strong>g both style and<br />
functionality. The m<strong>in</strong>imal tongue design boasts<br />
transparent UV dual brand<strong>in</strong>g, a nod to <strong>the</strong> fusion<br />
of technology and fashion.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> world of sneakers, <strong>the</strong> TN98 silhouette<br />
stands as a testament to <strong>the</strong> limitless possibilities<br />
of design. It’s not just a shoe; it’s a statement,<br />
a fusion of artistry and functionality that<br />
propels you <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> future with each step.<br />
Welcome to <strong>the</strong> next era of sneaker evolution<br />
– where tradition meets <strong>in</strong>novation, and style<br />
knows no bounds.<br />
84 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
In <strong>the</strong> ever-evolv<strong>in</strong>g landscape of sneaker culture, <strong>the</strong> TN98 silhouette takes a bold step<br />
forward, redef<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g iconic design with an <strong>in</strong>fusion of <strong>in</strong>novation and style. Crafted from<br />
textured full-gra<strong>in</strong> lea<strong>the</strong>r, this radical update br<strong>in</strong>gs a fresh perspective to <strong>the</strong> renowned<br />
Nike signature.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
85
UNORTHODOX<br />
86 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
A NOMADIC<br />
JUNGLE EXPEDITION<br />
In <strong>the</strong> heart of LA Fashion Week, DEMOBAZA unveiled its<br />
Spr<strong>in</strong>g/Summer 2024 Collection, transcend<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> boundaries<br />
of conventional fashion with a rebellious spirit deeply rooted <strong>in</strong><br />
nature. The collection, aptly named “REBEL,” is not just a showcase<br />
of cloth<strong>in</strong>g; it’s an immersive journey <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> untamed wild,<br />
a nomadic jungle expedition that challenges <strong>the</strong> norms of both<br />
design and existence.<br />
Nomadic Rebellion:<br />
The SS24 collection by DEMOBAZA is a rebellion, an untamed<br />
odyssey that channels <strong>the</strong> raw, primal energy of <strong>the</strong> jungle. From<br />
<strong>the</strong> earthy color palette to <strong>the</strong> rugged, deconstructed silhouettes,<br />
each garment narrates a story of adventure, self-discovery, and a<br />
profound connection with <strong>the</strong> natural world.<br />
Organic Fusion:<br />
DEMOBAZA’s commitment to nature is evident <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> materials<br />
chosen for this collection. Organic dyed denim, soft cotton, l<strong>in</strong>en<br />
knitwear, and detailed jersey garments come toge<strong>the</strong>r to create a<br />
total look that’s not just cloth<strong>in</strong>g; it’s a cosmic suit wrapp<strong>in</strong>g around<br />
tribal essence and <strong>the</strong> soul of a wander<strong>in</strong>g nomad.<br />
Metamorphic Energy:<br />
The collection aims to represent an explosion of colors that has<br />
traveled <strong>in</strong>tensively through time and space, settl<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to an au<strong>the</strong>ntic<br />
v<strong>in</strong>tage look. Each piece resonates with a rebellious spirit,<br />
serv<strong>in</strong>g as an energy shield guided by <strong>the</strong> div<strong>in</strong>e particle—a catalyst<br />
for fundamental change and personal transformation.<br />
Unruly Shapes and Forms:<br />
DEMOBAZA challenges conventional norms with <strong>the</strong> unruly,<br />
shape-shift<strong>in</strong>g forms of its garments. These are not just clo<strong>the</strong>s;<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are expressions of rebellion, ak<strong>in</strong> to artisanal survivalist attire.<br />
The ensembles <strong>in</strong> this collection redef<strong>in</strong>e fashion, blurr<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> l<strong>in</strong>es<br />
between <strong>the</strong> practical and <strong>the</strong> avant-garde.<br />
Philosophy of DEMOBAZA:<br />
DEMOBAZA, s<strong>in</strong>ce its <strong>in</strong>ception <strong>in</strong> 2007, has embodied a philosophy<br />
rooted <strong>in</strong> self-discovery, spiritual awaken<strong>in</strong>g, and harmonious<br />
communion with <strong>the</strong> natural world. The REBEL collection is<br />
a testament to <strong>the</strong>ir unyield<strong>in</strong>g dedication to conscious evolution<br />
<strong>in</strong> both fashion and spirit.<br />
The Rebel’s Ethos:<br />
“The Rebel is <strong>the</strong> master of his own dest<strong>in</strong>y. Discovered his own<br />
true nature and is determ<strong>in</strong>ed to live <strong>in</strong> accordance with it.” This<br />
ethos is echoed <strong>in</strong> every stitch, every color, and every rebellious<br />
form of DEMOBAZA’s SS24 collection.<br />
Beyond Fashion:<br />
DEMOBAZA’s philosophy goes beyond fashion. The Rebel<br />
challenges us to live our truth, be courageous, take responsibility,<br />
and embrace our uniqueness. The enlightened man, accord<strong>in</strong>g to<br />
DEMOBAZA, cannot be enslaved, imprisoned, and is <strong>the</strong> greatest<br />
stranger <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> world. These are not just words; <strong>the</strong>y are guid<strong>in</strong>g<br />
pr<strong>in</strong>ciples woven <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> fabric of every garment.<br />
DEMOBAZA’s SS24 collection is not just a fashion statement; it’s<br />
a revolution. It <strong>in</strong>vites you to be a Rebel, to embrace your uniqueness,<br />
and to embark on a nomadic jungle expedition. In a world<br />
pulsat<strong>in</strong>g with <strong>the</strong> awareness of <strong>the</strong> anthropocene, DEMOBAZA<br />
stands as a beacon of rebellion and harmony—a testament to <strong>the</strong><br />
endur<strong>in</strong>g power of conscious and unorthodox fashion.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
87
LUX<br />
EMPORIO ARMANI SS 2024 MEN’S<br />
COLLECTION: A LUSTROUS<br />
SYMPHONY OF ELEMENTAL ELEGANCE<br />
The Palette:<br />
A canvas of whites, sands, and blacks converges <strong>in</strong> a harmonious<br />
dance. The hues, whe<strong>the</strong>r entw<strong>in</strong>ed or stand<strong>in</strong>g alone, tell a<br />
story of elemental beauty and pure energy.<br />
The Silhouettes:<br />
Fluid shapes, embrac<strong>in</strong>g dry yet vibrant romanticism, transport<br />
us between <strong>the</strong> exotic East and <strong>the</strong> mythical landscapes of North<br />
Africa. Wide pants, roomy shirts, and robe-like jackets fashioned<br />
from filmy, liquid fabrics redef<strong>in</strong>e comfort and style.<br />
The Runway Theater:<br />
Under <strong>the</strong> watchful eye of a giant metal g<strong>in</strong>kgo leaf, <strong>the</strong> runway<br />
transforms <strong>in</strong>to a <strong>the</strong>ater of contemplation. Influences from Tokyo<br />
and <strong>the</strong> East emerge, with nods to <strong>the</strong> haori jacket and martial arts,<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g an ambiance of focused allure.<br />
Signature Styles:<br />
Armani’s signature long, flow<strong>in</strong>g layers <strong>in</strong> black and tan steal <strong>the</strong><br />
spotlight. Tunics, duster coats, and pajama-like pants def<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong><br />
p<strong>in</strong>nacle of elegance. Black-tie versions, adorned with sat<strong>in</strong> trim,<br />
shimmer like stars <strong>in</strong> a dark desert sky.<br />
88 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
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Unexpected Pair<strong>in</strong>gs:<br />
Interludes of technical outerwear and offbeat tweed hoodies,<br />
paired with flow<strong>in</strong>g pants and soft, knitted slip-on shoes, showcase<br />
Armani’s mastery <strong>in</strong> unexpected comb<strong>in</strong>ations.<br />
The Climax:<br />
As <strong>the</strong> show seem<strong>in</strong>gly concludes, a surprise awaits—<strong>the</strong> entrance<br />
of Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Adorned <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> official<br />
EA7 Emporio Armani kit for <strong>the</strong> Paris 2024 games, <strong>the</strong>y symbolize<br />
<strong>the</strong> fusion of functionality and style.<br />
In this lustrous symphony, Armani captures <strong>the</strong> essence of elemental<br />
beauty and contemporary sophistication. The Emporio Armani<br />
SS 2024 men’s collection <strong>in</strong>vites you to immerse yourself <strong>in</strong><br />
a moonlit journey—a timeless exploration of elegance and allure.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
89
LINDBERG<br />
“The evolution of <strong>the</strong> Th<strong>in</strong>tanium collection represents our dedication<br />
to cont<strong>in</strong>uous <strong>in</strong>novation and personalization,” says Roberto<br />
Vedovotto, Founder, CEO & President for Ker<strong>in</strong>g Eyewear,<br />
owner of LINDBERG. “We believe that eyewear should not only<br />
reflect one’s style but also provide unparalleled comfort. With <strong>the</strong><br />
addition of acetate rims and <strong>the</strong> option for lighter lenses, wearers<br />
can now enjoy a personalized eyewear experience that enhances<br />
both <strong>the</strong>ir visual clarity and overall comfort. “<br />
LINDBERG’s commitment to <strong>in</strong>dividuality is fur<strong>the</strong>r amplified<br />
through <strong>the</strong> modular system, which allows wearers to customize<br />
<strong>the</strong> shape, temple, size, and color of <strong>the</strong>ir eyewear. The addition of<br />
acetate rims expands <strong>the</strong> scope of personalisation, offer<strong>in</strong>g wearers<br />
countless opportunities to create a truly unique and tailored<br />
eyewear piece.<br />
The Th<strong>in</strong>tanium collection with acetate rims builds upon LIND-<br />
BERG’s core values of design, <strong>in</strong>novation, and personalization. It<br />
represents a harmonious fusion of Danish design heritage, exceptional<br />
craftsmanship, unparalleled <strong>in</strong>novation, and ultimate personal<br />
comfort.<br />
The Th<strong>in</strong>tanium collection has established itself as a benchmark<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> eyewear <strong>in</strong>dustry, receiv<strong>in</strong>g numerous design awards for its<br />
<strong>in</strong>novative approach to m<strong>in</strong>imalist design. The collection features<br />
an ultra-th<strong>in</strong> titanium plate front that achieves a delicate aes<strong>the</strong>tic,<br />
boast<strong>in</strong>g an extraord<strong>in</strong>ary strength-to-weight ratio. Now, LIND-<br />
BERG has elevated this iconic collection by <strong>in</strong>corporat<strong>in</strong>g acetate<br />
rims, offer<strong>in</strong>g wearers a new level of personalization and lightweight<br />
comfort.<br />
In addition to <strong>the</strong> remarkable aes<strong>the</strong>tics and personalization opportunities,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Th<strong>in</strong>tanium collection with acetate rims <strong>in</strong>troduces<br />
ano<strong>the</strong>r significant benefit - <strong>the</strong> ability to mount th<strong>in</strong>ner lenses. By<br />
<strong>in</strong>tegrat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> acetate rims <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> frame, LINDBERG enables<br />
<strong>in</strong>dividuals with high prescriptions to experience <strong>the</strong> joy of lightweight<br />
eyewear while ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g visual clarity. The result is comfortable<br />
and visually appeal<strong>in</strong>g eyewear that comb<strong>in</strong>es style and<br />
improved functionality.<br />
90 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
LINDBERG, <strong>the</strong> renowned Danish eyewear brand, is thrilled to unveil <strong>the</strong> latest<br />
evolution of <strong>the</strong>ir esteemed Th<strong>in</strong>tanium collection. Build<strong>in</strong>g upon <strong>the</strong> success of <strong>the</strong><br />
ultra-th<strong>in</strong> titanium plate eyewear, LINDBERG has taken <strong>in</strong>novation to new heights by<br />
<strong>in</strong>troduc<strong>in</strong>g an excit<strong>in</strong>g addition - acetate rims. This evolutionary step showcases<br />
LINDBERG’s unwaver<strong>in</strong>g commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, cutt<strong>in</strong>g-edge<br />
design, and ultimate personalisation.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
91
PICTURE STORY<br />
PHOTO BY BRICE COOPER ON UNSPLASH<br />
92 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
TOONS AND MANGA<br />
EPIC CONCLUSION: BLEACH’S<br />
THOUSAND-YEAR BLOOD WAR<br />
PART 3 SET TO MESMERIZE FANS<br />
IN 2024<br />
In <strong>the</strong> realm of manga and anime, few series<br />
have captivated audiences as profoundly<br />
as Tite Kubo’s “Bleach.” As we<br />
eagerly anticipate <strong>the</strong> release of “Bleach:<br />
Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3” <strong>in</strong> 2024,<br />
fans can brace <strong>the</strong>mselves for <strong>the</strong> epic culm<strong>in</strong>ation<br />
of Ichigo Kurosaki’s saga.<br />
The masterfully crafted narrative of “Thousand-Year<br />
Blood War” has kept fans on <strong>the</strong><br />
edge of <strong>the</strong>ir seats, and <strong>the</strong> upcom<strong>in</strong>g third<br />
part promises an explosive climax. Studio<br />
Pierrot, renowned for its exceptional animation<br />
prowess, cont<strong>in</strong>ues to brea<strong>the</strong> life <strong>in</strong>to<br />
Kubo’s <strong>in</strong>tricate world, ensur<strong>in</strong>g that <strong>the</strong><br />
fierce battles between Sh<strong>in</strong>igami and Qu<strong>in</strong>cy<br />
are portrayed with <strong>the</strong> visual splendor<br />
that fans have come to expect.<br />
Ichigo Kurosaki, <strong>the</strong> iconic protagonist,<br />
has undergone significant growth and faced<br />
numerous challenges throughout <strong>the</strong> series.<br />
As <strong>the</strong> Thousand-Year Blood War reaches its<br />
zenith, fans can anticipate a thrill<strong>in</strong>g resolution<br />
to Ichigo’s journey—one that is sure to<br />
leave a last<strong>in</strong>g impact.<br />
The clash between Sh<strong>in</strong>igami and Qu<strong>in</strong>cy<br />
has been noth<strong>in</strong>g short of <strong>in</strong>tense, with<br />
each <strong>in</strong>stallment of <strong>the</strong> “Thousand-Year<br />
Blood War” add<strong>in</strong>g layers of complexity to<br />
<strong>the</strong> storyl<strong>in</strong>e. Part 3 promises to unravel <strong>the</strong><br />
mysteries that have kept fans guess<strong>in</strong>g, provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />
closure to long-stand<strong>in</strong>g questions<br />
and plotl<strong>in</strong>es.<br />
Studio Pierrot’s dedication to preserv<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong> essence of Kubo’s vision ensures that <strong>the</strong><br />
animation quality rema<strong>in</strong>s top-notch. From<br />
dynamic fight sequences to <strong>the</strong> nuanced<br />
emotions of <strong>the</strong> characters, every frame is a<br />
testament to <strong>the</strong> studio’s commitment to deliver<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a visually stunn<strong>in</strong>g and emotionally<br />
resonant experience.<br />
As fans prepare for <strong>the</strong> conclusion of<br />
Ichigo’s saga, <strong>the</strong> anticipation is palpable.<br />
“Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part<br />
3” is not just an anime; it’s a culm<strong>in</strong>ation of<br />
years of storytell<strong>in</strong>g, character development,<br />
and fan engagement. It’s a celebration of <strong>the</strong><br />
impact “Bleach” has had on <strong>the</strong> anime and<br />
manga community.<br />
In 2024, anime enthusiasts and manga<br />
connoisseurs alike can look forward to immers<strong>in</strong>g<br />
<strong>the</strong>mselves <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> grand f<strong>in</strong>ale of<br />
“Thousand-Year Blood War.” Ichigo Kurosaki’s<br />
journey has been one for <strong>the</strong> ages, and<br />
<strong>the</strong> conclud<strong>in</strong>g part promises to be a fitt<strong>in</strong>g<br />
crescendo to this epic tale. As we countdown<br />
to <strong>the</strong> release, one th<strong>in</strong>g is certa<strong>in</strong>—bleach<br />
your calendars, for <strong>the</strong> Thousand-Year Blood<br />
War is about to reach its thrill<strong>in</strong>g zenith.<br />
94 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
TOONS AND MANGA<br />
BLACK BUTLER: A RETURN TO<br />
ELEGANCE IN SEASON 4<br />
After a decade-long hiatus, <strong>the</strong><br />
much-awaited return of “Black Butler”<br />
has sent ripples of excitement<br />
through <strong>the</strong> world of anime enthusiasts.<br />
Season 4, animated by Cloverworks, is<br />
set to captivate fans with a journey back to<br />
<strong>the</strong> series’ manga roots, follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> canon<br />
Book of Circus. For those who have followed<br />
<strong>the</strong> enigmatic tale of Ciel Phantomhive, this<br />
upcom<strong>in</strong>g season promises to be a visual<br />
and narrative feast.<br />
The anime landscape has evolved over<br />
<strong>the</strong> years, with various series explor<strong>in</strong>g different<br />
genres and storytell<strong>in</strong>g styles. However,<br />
“Black Butler” has always stood out<br />
with its unique blend of Victorian elegance,<br />
supernatural <strong>in</strong>trigue, and <strong>the</strong> complex relationship<br />
between Ciel Phantomhive and his<br />
demon butler, Sebastian Michaelis.<br />
What makes Season 4 particularly special<br />
is its commitment to revisit<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> manga’s<br />
orig<strong>in</strong>al narrative. Long-time followers of<br />
<strong>the</strong> series will appreciate this return to <strong>the</strong><br />
source material, ensur<strong>in</strong>g a faithful and engag<strong>in</strong>g<br />
cont<strong>in</strong>uation of Ciel’s story. Cloverworks,<br />
known for its prowess <strong>in</strong> animation,<br />
adds ano<strong>the</strong>r layer of anticipation, promis<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a visually stunn<strong>in</strong>g portrayal of <strong>the</strong> dark and<br />
mysterious world of “Black Butler.”<br />
For those unfamiliar with <strong>the</strong> series, “Black<br />
Butler” follows <strong>the</strong> story of Ciel Phantomhive,<br />
a young aristocrat who forms a contract with<br />
a demon, Sebastian, <strong>in</strong> pursuit of revenge.<br />
Set aga<strong>in</strong>st <strong>the</strong> backdrop of Victorian England,<br />
<strong>the</strong> series weaves toge<strong>the</strong>r elements<br />
of mystery, fantasy, and supernatural drama,<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g a narrative tapestry that has garnered<br />
a dedicated fan base.<br />
The Book of Circus arc, upon which Season<br />
4 is based, is a compell<strong>in</strong>g segment of<br />
<strong>the</strong> manga that <strong>in</strong>troduces <strong>the</strong> enigmatic Noah’s<br />
Ark Circus. As Ciel and Sebastian delve<br />
<strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> mysteries surround<strong>in</strong>g this peculiar<br />
circus, viewers can expect a perfect blend<br />
of suspense, dark humor, and <strong>the</strong> signature<br />
elegance that def<strong>in</strong>es “Black Butler.”<br />
As <strong>the</strong> anime world cont<strong>in</strong>ues to evolve,<br />
“Black Butler” rema<strong>in</strong>s a timeless gem that<br />
has left an <strong>in</strong>delible mark on <strong>the</strong> genre. Season<br />
4, with its return to <strong>the</strong> series’ roots, is<br />
not just a cont<strong>in</strong>uation; it’s a celebration of<br />
<strong>the</strong> elements that have made “Black Butler”<br />
a beloved classic. So, prepare to step back<br />
<strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> elaborate and mysterious world of<br />
Ciel Phantomhive, where <strong>the</strong> l<strong>in</strong>e between<br />
<strong>the</strong> liv<strong>in</strong>g and <strong>the</strong> supernatural is as th<strong>in</strong> as a<br />
wisp of smoke.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
95
PICTURE STORY<br />
PHOTO BY ALEXANDER GREY ON UNSPLASH<br />
96 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
BRAND LOGO<br />
UNVEILING THE ELEGANCE: THE HALLMARK<br />
LOGO’S ARTISTIC JOURNEY<br />
I<br />
n <strong>the</strong> vast landscape of brand logos, <strong>the</strong>re<br />
are a few iconic symbols that stand out not<br />
just as corporate <strong>in</strong>signias but as works of<br />
art. One such timeless emblem is <strong>the</strong> Hallmark<br />
logo, a visual signature that has become<br />
synonymous with quality, au<strong>the</strong>nticity,<br />
and heartfelt sentiments.<br />
A Journey Through Time:<br />
The Hallmark logo, with its simple yet profound<br />
design, encapsulates a rich history. It<br />
is a visual narrative that has evolved alongside<br />
<strong>the</strong> brand itself. Introduced <strong>in</strong> 1951, <strong>the</strong><br />
logo has undergone subtle changes, but its<br />
core essence has rema<strong>in</strong>ed a constant beacon<br />
of trust.<br />
The Crown: A Symbol of Royalty and<br />
Craftsmanship:<br />
At <strong>the</strong> heart of <strong>the</strong> Hallmark logo is <strong>the</strong><br />
crown, an element that radiates elegance<br />
and craftsmanship. Placed above <strong>the</strong> word<br />
“Hallmark” <strong>in</strong> a dist<strong>in</strong>ctive script, <strong>the</strong> crown<br />
embodies a sense of regality and sophistication.<br />
It’s not just a symbol; it’s a testament<br />
to <strong>the</strong> brand’s commitment to excellence.<br />
Timeless Typography:<br />
In <strong>the</strong> world of design, typography is an<br />
art form, and <strong>the</strong> Hallmark logo is a prime<br />
example of this. The cursive script used for<br />
<strong>the</strong> brand name is deliberate – it speaks of<br />
warmth, personal touch, and a connection<br />
that transcends generations. The fluid l<strong>in</strong>es<br />
create an aes<strong>the</strong>tic that is both classic and<br />
contemporary.<br />
Color Palette: The Subtle Palette of<br />
Emotion:<br />
Colors carry emotions, and <strong>the</strong> Hallmark<br />
logo’s color palette is a masterstroke <strong>in</strong> convey<strong>in</strong>g<br />
sentiments. The deep blue background<br />
exudes a sense of trust and reliability,<br />
while <strong>the</strong> gold accents elevate <strong>the</strong> logo to<br />
a symbol of premium quality and prestige.<br />
A Symbol of Emotional Connection:<br />
Hallmark is not just a brand; it’s an emotional<br />
bridge connect<strong>in</strong>g people on special<br />
occasions. The logo is a silent messenger<br />
of love, care, and thoughtfulness. When you<br />
see that crown, you don’t just see a brand –<br />
you recall moments of joy, celebrations, and<br />
heartfelt expressions.<br />
Adapt<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> Digital Canvas:<br />
In <strong>the</strong> digital age, where logos are often<br />
shrunk to fit t<strong>in</strong>y screens, <strong>the</strong> Hallmark logo<br />
ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>s its <strong>in</strong>tegrity. The simplicity of design<br />
ensures that whe<strong>the</strong>r on a greet<strong>in</strong>g card<br />
or a digital message, <strong>the</strong> essence rema<strong>in</strong>s<br />
<strong>in</strong>tact – a mark of au<strong>the</strong>nticity and s<strong>in</strong>cerity.<br />
The Hallmark logo isn’t just a corporate<br />
symbol; it’s a signature of excellence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
art of connection. It has transcended its role<br />
as a mere identifier and become a visual<br />
ambassador for <strong>the</strong> emotions that Hallmark<br />
endeavors to encapsulate <strong>in</strong> every product.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> realm of brand logos, <strong>the</strong> Hallmark<br />
emblem stands tall not just as an identifier<br />
but as a work of art that has woven itself <strong>in</strong>to<br />
<strong>the</strong> fabric of our emotional experiences. It’s a<br />
rem<strong>in</strong>der that, sometimes, a symbol is more<br />
than just a symbol – it’s a piece of art that<br />
tells a story.a<strong>in</strong>s <strong>in</strong>tact – a mark of au<strong>the</strong>nticity<br />
and s<strong>in</strong>cerity.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
97
ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS<br />
98 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
JATIYA SANGSAD<br />
BHABAN,<br />
BANGLADESH<br />
KAHN’S ARCHITECTURAL TRIUMPH<br />
Material Honesty <strong>in</strong> Design:<br />
Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Louis Kahn’s creation, epitomizes material<br />
honesty. Us<strong>in</strong>g local bricks, Kahn seamlessly blends modern<br />
architecture with Bengali vernacular, creat<strong>in</strong>g a symbolic landmark<br />
for Bangladesh.<br />
Spirit and Silence <strong>in</strong> Form:<br />
Guided by ‘spirit’ and ‘silence,’ Kahn’s design harmonizes form<br />
and function. The monumental structure, completed <strong>in</strong> 1982, symbolizes<br />
freedom and resilience, celebrated globally through <strong>the</strong><br />
documentary “My Architect.”<br />
Democracy’s Monument:<br />
Initially an extension of Pakistan’s parliamentary headquarters,<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>terrupted construction became a symbol of democracy and<br />
pride after Bangladesh ga<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong>dependence. Cover<strong>in</strong>g 200<br />
acres, it stands among <strong>the</strong> world’s largest legislative structures.<br />
Geometry, Light, and Integration:<br />
Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban’s exterior simplicity hides geometric <strong>in</strong>tricacies,<br />
utiliz<strong>in</strong>g concrete and marble. The artificial lake serves<br />
as a natural <strong>in</strong>sulator, creat<strong>in</strong>g unique spatial and light<strong>in</strong>g conditions.<br />
Kahn’s fasc<strong>in</strong>ation with light, drawn from ancient architecture,<br />
is evident <strong>in</strong> his design.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
99
ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS<br />
100 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY,<br />
CHANDIGARH<br />
LE CORBUSIER’S MAGNIFICENT OVERTURE IN CHANDIGARH<br />
The Essence of Le Corbusier’s Five Po<strong>in</strong>ts:<br />
The Palace of <strong>the</strong> Assembly encapsulates Le Corbusier’s famed<br />
five po<strong>in</strong>ts of architecture. Elevated on pilotis, re<strong>in</strong>forced concrete<br />
columns form a grid, lift<strong>in</strong>g a sweep<strong>in</strong>g concrete form above <strong>the</strong><br />
entrance. This structure exemplifies <strong>the</strong> first two po<strong>in</strong>ts: <strong>the</strong> use of<br />
pilotis and a free facade, allow<strong>in</strong>g a grand release of space.<br />
Harmony with <strong>the</strong> Himalayan Landscape:<br />
The design <strong>in</strong>geniously <strong>in</strong>corporates views of <strong>the</strong> Himalayan<br />
landscape, adher<strong>in</strong>g to Le Corbusier’s desire for a connection with<br />
nature. Sun-shad<strong>in</strong>g along <strong>the</strong> offices frames <strong>the</strong> surround<strong>in</strong>g site,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> portico opens to vistas of <strong>the</strong> adjacent landscape and <strong>the</strong><br />
distant Himalayas, creat<strong>in</strong>g a dialogue between <strong>the</strong> built environment<br />
and <strong>the</strong> natural world.<br />
Dynamic Spatial Composition:<br />
The <strong>in</strong>terior of <strong>the</strong> Palace of <strong>the</strong> Assembly is a choreography of<br />
open spaces and structural elements. The grid of re<strong>in</strong>forced concrete<br />
columns def<strong>in</strong>es an open plan, allow<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>the</strong> manipulation<br />
of <strong>the</strong> program. The circular assembly chamber, contradictory <strong>in</strong><br />
form for optimal acoustics, <strong>in</strong>tersects <strong>the</strong> central open space, creat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a dynamic and multifunctional environment.<br />
Theatrical Skyl<strong>in</strong>e and Material Expression:<br />
The skyl<strong>in</strong>e of <strong>the</strong> Assembly is a spectacle <strong>in</strong> itself. The hyperboloid,<br />
pyramid, and lift-tower dance aga<strong>in</strong>st <strong>the</strong> sky, provid<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a dramatic visual narrative. Le Corbusier’s near-exclusive use of<br />
concrete unifies <strong>the</strong> build<strong>in</strong>g visually, despite <strong>the</strong> complexity of its<br />
form. This material choice, often criticized for its perceived brutality,<br />
becomes an essential part of Corbusier’s language, offer<strong>in</strong>g a<br />
powerful and unified aes<strong>the</strong>tic.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
101
ART EXIBITIONS<br />
ART EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS<br />
“WAYS OF SEEING” SOLO EXHIBTION BY JAMAL<br />
TAYARA-BAROUDY<br />
ALSERKAAL AVENUE - FN DESIGNS, WAREHOUSE 26<br />
24 OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong> - 8 DECEMBER <strong>2023</strong><br />
Tashkeel unveils “Ways of See<strong>in</strong>g,” a captivat<strong>in</strong>g solo exhibition by UAE-based<br />
Lebanese artist Jamal Tayara-Baroudy. Rooted <strong>in</strong> Tashkeel’s Critical Practice Programme<br />
2022, <strong>the</strong> exhibition delves <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> profound connection between <strong>the</strong><br />
artist and nature. Focus<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> giant milkweed, often dismissed as <strong>in</strong>vasive,<br />
Jamal’s work challenges perceptions, utiliz<strong>in</strong>g various plant parts to create art.<br />
This botanical exploration not only highlights <strong>the</strong> plant’s diverse applications but<br />
also emphasizes <strong>the</strong> urgency of reevaluat<strong>in</strong>g our relationship with nature. Mentored<br />
by curator Lesley Ann Gray and Dr. Mohammad Abiad, Jamal’s collaboration<br />
underscores <strong>the</strong> untapped potential with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> natural world, advocat<strong>in</strong>g for<br />
susta<strong>in</strong>ability and cultural reconnection.<br />
“TETHYS” BY NABIL NAHAS<br />
ALSERKAAL AVENUE - LAWRIE<br />
SHABIBI, WAREHOUSE 21<br />
30 OCTOBER <strong>2023</strong> - 5 JANUARY 2024<br />
Nabil Nahas unveils ‘Tethys,’ a mesmeriz<strong>in</strong>g<br />
exploration of color, texture, and nature<br />
<strong>in</strong> his third solo exhibition at Lawrie Shabibi.<br />
Inspired by his Mediterranean roots and a<br />
deep connection to Lebanon and Egypt, Nahas<br />
creates multi-layered pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs, draw<strong>in</strong>g<br />
cues from celestial and mar<strong>in</strong>e phenomena.<br />
The ‘Landscapes’ series magnifies <strong>the</strong><br />
presence of cedars, olive trees, and palms,<br />
us<strong>in</strong>g vibrant and somber hues to convey<br />
emotions tied to memories. In <strong>the</strong> ‘Fractal’<br />
pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>gs, Nahas employs an ‘encrusted’<br />
technique, mimick<strong>in</strong>g geological formations<br />
and organic growth. ‘Tethys’ not only captivates<br />
with its vibrant hues and tactile experiences<br />
but also delves <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> rich history of<br />
<strong>the</strong> ancient Tethys Sea, shap<strong>in</strong>g our planet’s<br />
evolution.<br />
102 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
“THE BLACK FLAGS OF<br />
MEDEA” BY PHILIP MUELLER<br />
ALSERKAAL AVENUE - CARBON<br />
12, WAREHOUSE 37<br />
10 NOVEMBER <strong>2023</strong> - 29 JANUARY 2024<br />
Embark on a transformative journey with<br />
<strong>the</strong> Black Flam<strong>in</strong>go Sad Boys and <strong>the</strong> Naxos<br />
Rac<strong>in</strong>g Team <strong>in</strong> Philip Mueller’s latest exhibition,<br />
“The Black Flags of Medea.” Born from<br />
<strong>the</strong> artist’s deep <strong>in</strong>trospection, <strong>the</strong> exhibition<br />
navigates <strong>the</strong> poignant <strong>in</strong>tersections of pleasure,<br />
mean<strong>in</strong>g, and unanswered questions.<br />
Mueller, hail<strong>in</strong>g from Austria, draws <strong>in</strong>spiration<br />
from German Romanticism, <strong>in</strong>fus<strong>in</strong>g his<br />
compositions with <strong>the</strong> rich hues of ripen<strong>in</strong>g<br />
colors under a late-sett<strong>in</strong>g sun. As we witness<br />
scenes unfold<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> autumnal<br />
landscapes of his birthplace, we stand at<br />
<strong>the</strong> threshold of a chapter’s closure, where<br />
<strong>the</strong> embers of past pursuits crumble, and<br />
a quest for deeper mean<strong>in</strong>g takes center<br />
stage.<br />
“DUALITY” BY NIMA NABAVI AND<br />
JASON SEIFE<br />
ALSERKAAL AVENUE - THE THIRD LINE,<br />
WAREHOUSE 78<br />
14 NOVEMBER <strong>2023</strong> - 5 JANUARY 2024<br />
The Third L<strong>in</strong>e proudly presents ‘Duality,’ a captivat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
exhibition showcas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> collaborative synergy<br />
between artists Nima Nabavi and Jason Seife. Rooted<br />
<strong>in</strong> an endur<strong>in</strong>g ‘art friendship,’ <strong>the</strong> exhibition explores<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tersection of <strong>the</strong>ir unique perspectives on color,<br />
shape, and l<strong>in</strong>e. Each canvas pair<strong>in</strong>g, from Tenet to Civic,<br />
reflects a shared geometry yet ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>s <strong>in</strong>dividuality,<br />
creat<strong>in</strong>g a sophisticated dance of sameness and difference.<br />
Rich <strong>in</strong> detail and complexity, <strong>the</strong> works reveal<br />
a harmonious collaboration, highlight<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> artists’<br />
mutual respect and <strong>in</strong>tuitive understand<strong>in</strong>g. ‘Duality’ is<br />
more than an exhibition; it’s a pas de deux, a seamless<br />
dance of shared creativity.<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
103
FEATURED ARTWORK<br />
@wabisabi_silver<br />
@burel.factory<br />
@burel.factory<br />
104 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
www.magzoid.com
FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHS<br />
@f<strong>in</strong>eartportraitmag<br />
@photographizemag<br />
@simpleisbeautifulphotography<br />
@kalliamorphous<br />
@photographizemag<br />
@simpleisbeautifulphotography<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
105
FROSTY FEASTS & COZY RETREATS<br />
FROSTY<br />
FEASTS & COZY<br />
RETREATS<br />
As <strong>the</strong> w<strong>in</strong>ter w<strong>in</strong>ds pick up <strong>the</strong> pace, and <strong>the</strong> even<strong>in</strong>gs become serene <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
UAE, here is a list of curated places to have memorable w<strong>in</strong>ter experiences.<br />
SURREAL GASTRO<br />
THEATRE WOWS AT<br />
BELCANTO, DUBAI<br />
OPERA<br />
Dubai’s Belcanto Restaurant at <strong>the</strong><br />
iconic Dubai Opera witnessed <strong>the</strong> mesmeriz<strong>in</strong>g<br />
debut of “SURREAL GASTRO<br />
THEATRE,” an <strong>in</strong>novative blend of immersive<br />
<strong>the</strong>atre and f<strong>in</strong>e d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g, presented<br />
by WHAT ELSE. Runn<strong>in</strong>g from November<br />
21, <strong>2023</strong>, to March 8, 2024, <strong>the</strong><br />
show offers 68 performances, featur<strong>in</strong>g<br />
a gripp<strong>in</strong>g detective plot and dynamic<br />
scenes seamlessly <strong>in</strong>tegrated with cul<strong>in</strong>ary<br />
artistry.<br />
Esteemed guests, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Carol<br />
Dursun and Badr Zizi, added to <strong>the</strong><br />
glamour. The six-scene production,<br />
marked by evolv<strong>in</strong>g costumes and<br />
light<strong>in</strong>g, revolves around <strong>the</strong> mysterious<br />
disappearance of opera diva Eleanor<br />
Cassetti. Curated by chefs Fabrizio<br />
Lusenti and Mika Tolkachev, <strong>the</strong> d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />
experience promises an exquisite fusion<br />
of gastronomy and <strong>the</strong>atrical spectacle.<br />
THE HABTOOR<br />
GRAND RESORT<br />
A TRANQUIL OASIS UNVEILED:<br />
ENCHANTING GARDEN LAWN<br />
COYA SPA: A LUXURIOUS RETREAT IN THE<br />
HEART OF MIRDIF, DUBAI<br />
Indulge <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> lap of luxury at COYA<br />
SPA, an opulent all-ladies day spa located<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> heart of Mirdif, Dubai. Surrounded<br />
by <strong>the</strong> lush Mirdiff Community,<br />
COYA SPA stands as a haven for relaxation<br />
and rejuvenation. The spa showcases<br />
a team of highly skilled <strong>the</strong>rapists,<br />
hair stylists, and nail experts, each dedicated<br />
to provid<strong>in</strong>g a top-notch wellness<br />
experience. The facility itself is a masterpiece,<br />
meticulously designed to offer<br />
a first-class spa experience.<br />
COYA SPA <strong>in</strong>vites you to escape <strong>the</strong><br />
hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse<br />
yourself <strong>in</strong> a world of tranquility<br />
and pamper<strong>in</strong>g. Whe<strong>the</strong>r you seek a<br />
sooth<strong>in</strong>g massage to unw<strong>in</strong>d, a rejuvenat<strong>in</strong>g<br />
facial to revitalize your sk<strong>in</strong>,<br />
or expertly crafted nail services, COYA<br />
SPA has it all. The spa’s commitment<br />
to excellence is evident <strong>in</strong> every detail,<br />
promis<strong>in</strong>g a frosty feast for <strong>the</strong> senses<br />
and a cozy retreat for those <strong>in</strong> pursuit of<br />
unparalleled luxury. Embark on a journey<br />
of serenity and bliss at COYA SPA,<br />
where every visit is a celebration of selfcare<br />
and <strong>in</strong>dulgence.<br />
106 <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong> www.magzoid.com
In a grand reveal, <strong>the</strong> iconic Habtoor<br />
Grand Resort, Autograph Collection,<br />
<strong>in</strong>troduces its latest gem – <strong>the</strong> Garden<br />
Lawn, a breathtak<strong>in</strong>g addition set to redef<strong>in</strong>e<br />
outdoor experiences <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> heart<br />
of Dubai. Spann<strong>in</strong>g over 4285 sqm, this<br />
meticulously landscaped luxury space<br />
offers a haven of tranquillity aga<strong>in</strong>st <strong>the</strong><br />
city’s vibrant backdrop.<br />
Designed for dreamy wedd<strong>in</strong>gs,<br />
pre-d<strong>in</strong>ner dr<strong>in</strong>ks, and special occasions,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Garden Lawn provides an<br />
unforgettable venue with panoramic<br />
views of <strong>the</strong> Dubai Eye. Nestled with<strong>in</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> resort’s opulent grounds, <strong>the</strong> lush<br />
oasis seamlessly blends with <strong>the</strong> iconic<br />
architecture, creat<strong>in</strong>g a premier dest<strong>in</strong>ation<br />
for social ga<strong>the</strong>r<strong>in</strong>gs.<br />
Now available for book<strong>in</strong>gs, <strong>the</strong> Garden<br />
Lawn promises a memorable backdrop<br />
for romantic wedd<strong>in</strong>gs, corporate<br />
ga<strong>the</strong>r<strong>in</strong>gs, and <strong>in</strong>timate soirées. Guests<br />
can also enjoy <strong>the</strong> resort’s extensive<br />
amenities, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g luxurious accommodations,<br />
top-notch d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g options,<br />
and rejuvenat<strong>in</strong>g wellness facilities,<br />
ensur<strong>in</strong>g a truly enchant<strong>in</strong>g experience<br />
amid Dubai’s dynamic landscape.<br />
SEASIDE SPLENDOR: KOKO BAY’S<br />
CHRISTMAS BRUNCH EXTRAVAGANZA<br />
Celebrate Christmas <strong>in</strong> style at Koko<br />
Bay, <strong>the</strong> beachfront haven nestled <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
heart of Palm West Beach. On <strong>December</strong><br />
25th, from 1 pm onwards, revel <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Christmas Brunch by <strong>the</strong> Beach, where<br />
cul<strong>in</strong>ary delights meet groovy beats<br />
from <strong>the</strong> guest DJ. Indulge <strong>in</strong> starters<br />
like Shredded Alaskan Crab Maki Roll<br />
and ma<strong>in</strong>s featur<strong>in</strong>g Robata Sea Bream<br />
Fillet or Wagyu Beef Galbi. The grand<br />
f<strong>in</strong>ale offers delightful desserts, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />
Christmas Pudd<strong>in</strong>g and Chocolate<br />
Plaisir Sucré. With a craft cocktail menu<br />
and cool brews, Koko Bay promises an<br />
unforgettable beachfront experience.<br />
Choose between a beachfront terrace<br />
or d<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g with your toes <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> sand.<br />
Prices start at AED300 with soft beverages,<br />
AED550 with house beverages<br />
and bubbly, and AED850 with premium<br />
beverages.<br />
Details:<br />
Date: Monday, <strong>December</strong> 25th<br />
Time: 1 - 4 pm (doors open at 12 pm)<br />
Prices: AED300 (soft beverages),<br />
AED550 (house beverages and bubbly),<br />
AED850 (premium beverages)<br />
www.magzoid.com <strong>December</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
107
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