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By Carlos Mundy This splendid hotel situated in the Golden Triangle of Mina Seyahi has taken art as one of its interests and has organised what is the first of many future art exhibitions. The newly refurbished Conservatory has become a gallery with the support of Dubai’s Culture and Art Authority. Rabab Tantawy Majid Al Yousef ArtKōrero founder, Chimere Cisse says: “The exhibition showcases the dynamic styles and local interpretations of culture by an incredible group of artists. There is a vibrant mix of art styles, presenting varying techniques and creative influences spanning street culture to Arabic calligraphy. What’s evident is the richness of this region, countries including Egypt, the UAE and Lebanon are impressively represented. It was wonderful to have the support of Dubai Culture and the Westin Mina Seyahi in this show’s development.” Nassim Nasr Majid Al Yousef Maitha & Alia Damithan Caleen Ladki Caleen Ladki Caleen Ladki Alireza Elahi I was delighted to being invited to experience the hotel located on Dubai's pristine Jumeirah Beach, set upon a sprawling seaside location. Opening in 2007 the hotel offers a beautiful setting with views of The Palm Island. Impressive neoclassical architecture brings charm and inspiration to this five-star luxury resort near the beach with a well-appointed private beach resort boasting unique and award-winning bars and restaurants, while the ample banquet and event facilities include an outdoor amphitheatre for weddings, gala dinners, and concerts in Dubai. An indulgent spa and WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio bring pure rejuvenation to the hotel. Designed to soothe and refresh, with 292 spacious hotel rooms and suites feature chic furnishings, Westin Heavenly® Beds, LCD TVs, and luxurious bath amenities. The first exhibition organised by the hotel in collaboration with ARTKORERO and currently on show is of contemporary Middle Eastern artists including award winning creatives are showcased to the public and available to purchase. ArtKōrero is the Middle East’s fastest growing art consultancy. Representing the interests of a group of high profile, internationally located artists and clients. With offices in both London and Dubai, ArtKorero seeks to engage galleries, private venues, luxury brands and public spaces with the art world. Ideating creative ways for parties to showcase art exhibitions, develop unique collaborations and implement artistic programming. Founded by Publicist and Art Consultant Chimere Cisse and a team of international art advisors, ArtKorero’s latest exhibition is the eighth show the team has produced in Dubai and comes on the back of their successful partnership with the Chalhoub Group and LA based artist James Goldcrown. Artists Majid Alyousef (KSA/Iraq), Nassim Nasr (Lebanon), Rabab Tantawy (Egypt), Alireza Elahi (Iran) and Caleen Ladki (Lebanon), and twins, Alia Damithan and Maitha Damithan (UAE) will present works curated and presented by Chimere Cisse with event programming running throughout the show. ArtKōrero founder, Chimere Cisse says: “The exhibition showcases the dynamic styles and local interpretations of culture by an incredible group of artists. There is a vibrant mix of art styles, presenting varying techniques and creative influences spanning street culture to Arabic calligraphy. What’s evident is the richness of this region, countries including Egypt, the UAE and Lebanon are impressively represented. It was wonderful to have the support of Dubai Culture and the Westin Mina Seyahi in this show’s development.” Admirers of the artists and their creations can enjoy the work in the dynamic Conservatory space, which last year underwent a modern renovation into an art-deco green oasis, with a distinctive architectural framework of a mansion. Using the Conservatory’s tranquil setting to showcase the beautifully crafted pieces, from the likes of 31-year-old Iranian painter Alireza Elahi, who describes his approach to his work as encapsulating the spirit of “both the street artist and the worker who has the duty to remove it”, alongside paintings from Lebanese artist Caleen Ladki, known for her bold approach to color and intricate use of texture, print and weaving, and Nassim Nasr, whose vibrant abstract art has earned him a legion of fans, with his most recent collection garnering rave reviews. Displayed in the peaceful ambience of The Westin’s lobby, calligraphy artist Majid Alyousef delights with his modern, abstract, and unique talent of transforming Arabic letters into a pure abstract language that can communicate globally. Plus, to be found Egyptian born, Dubai-based artist Rabab Tantawy’s work of cross medium pieces, working with oil, acrylic and wood. The Damithan twins whose recent work is inspired by the global covid-19 pandemic named “The Studio” will also be on show. There is no doubt that the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is committed to enriching Dubai’s cultural scene based on the UAE’s heritage and is building bridges of constructive dialogue between various cultures to enhance Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Dubai Culture is keen on reviving and preserving the emirate's historical heritage and developing the regulatory frameworks for the cultural and creative sector in line with its strategic roadmap 2020 – 2025. The Authority also seeks to empower the enablers that seek to support talents and stimulate active participation from society members by investing in the various cultural and heritage assets under its remit, including the management of six heritage sites, four museums, Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children and eight Dubai Public Library branches, all of which help contribute to creating an economic system that stimulates the cultural and creative industries. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbmb-the-westin-dubai-mina-seyahi-beach-resort-and-marina/overview/ https://www.dubaiculture.gov.ae https://www.artkorero.com

Dior is unveiling part two of an unprecedented campaign – signed Brigitte Lacombe – exalting the timeless allure of the Lady 95.22. LADY 95.22. All images ©BRIGITTE LACOMBE In an exclusive campaign – signed Brigitte Lacombe – Dior invites exceptional women to reveal their way of appropriating the Lady 95.22, thus celebrating the timeless allure of this new iconic accessory. This new essential accessory is staged alongside exceptional women from the worlds of art, cinema, sports, literature, fashion and music. Dior has already unveiled Lacombe's spellbinding shots, featuring actress Rosamund Pike. In the part two Anya Taylor-Joy carries the iconic black leather bag with its ruthenium-color finishes, including “D, I, O, R” charms that evoke the founding-couturier's lucky charms. As the actress Anya Taylor-Joy to unveil her personality in bewitching shots that fuse purity and sophistication: moments of complicity exalting the facets of plural femininity, Lacombe proposes the contemporary vision of Dior woman. #DiorLady9522 Driven by a profound spirit of independence, dear to Maria Grazia Chiuri, Dior's fashion and beauty ambassador carries the emblematic black leather bag, on which the irresistibly graphic lines of cannage flourish. Weaving ties between the House's past and future, this object of desire is adorned with refined ruthenium-colored "#Dior" charms, delicately evoking the founding-couturier's lucky charms. A unique encounter offering a reinvented perspective on the multiple expressions of elegance.

With TEFAF Maastricht opening to the public tomorrow, Alon Zakaim Fine Art is standing out with some of the high quality works displayed on the booth no. 459. Here are few of highlights, visitors can now view the full selection of artworks on gallery's website. Marc Chagall (French/Russian, 1887-1985), Le soleil rouge dans le ciel bleu, oil on board, 64 x 55 cm (25¼ x 21⅝ in.) For its 36th regular edition TEFAF expands number of art galleries and dealers to over 260 featuring 7000 years of art history. Some of the world-class artworks to be unveiled to visitors from tomorrow include Impressionist masterworks presented by galleries like Alon Zakaim Fine Art. Georges Braque (French, 1882-1963), Légumier, citron, oranges, 1924, oil on canvas, 21 x 65.3 cm (8¼ x 25¾ in.), signed and dated ‘G Braque 24’ TEFAF Maastricht is universally regarded as the world's most prestigious art fair, setting the standard for excellence. With a selection of 259 of the finest galleries from 20 countries, the fair continually showcases the best works of art currently on the market, from Old Master paintings and antiquities to Contemporary art. Pierre-Auguste Renoir (French, 1841-1919), Lavandières au bord du Loup, 1917, oil on canvas, 47 x 55.6 cm (18½ x 21⅞ in.), stamped 'Renoir' (Lugt 2137b) This year, Alon Zakaim Fine Art is exhibiting at #TEFAF Maastricht, for the tenth time. anniversary exhibiting! The stand will feature important #Impressionist and Modern works by Marc #Chagall, Camille Pissarro, Georges #Braque and Pierre-Auguste #Renoir amongst many others. Henri-Edmond Cross (French, 1856-1910), Ponte Moro, Rio Grimani (Venise), September 1903-January 1904, oil on canvas, 59.2 x 73 cm (23⅜ x 28¾ in.) Sam Francis (American, 1923-1994), New Gold Home, 1952, gouache and watercolour on paper, 60.9 x 48.9 cm (24 x 19¼ in.) René Magritte (Belgian, 1898-1967), Le carnaval du sage (The Sage’s Carnival), 1947, oil on canvas, 62.9 x 48.1 cm (24¾ x 18⅞ in.) Venue details: MECC (#Maastricht Exhibition & Congress Centre) Forum 100 6229 GV Maastricht The Netherlands

You've probably noticed that there are a lot of bags out. there—but have you ever found one that was truly perfect for you? Be mesmerized by the beauty of @osondbags. A bag designed to be your perfect companion. The bag brand that will make you fall in love with over and over again. Have you heard of the German expression: To live out of the Bag? Meet OSOND, the tote bag concept reinvented, which will organize your life. Osond Bags founder, opera singer, and designer Antonia Osond no stranger to the stage. With a background in performing and an eye for design, she's traveled the world as a globetrotter. Now, as she launches her #OSOND shopper line, we're taking a look back at her journey—from her passion for music and fashion to her career As a professional traveler, Antonia always loved oversized shoppers. in order to carry everything she needed on her travels. But the The downside of these was that it often took her ages to find an item she was looking for, and sometimes had to turn the bag upside down in order to find it. The idea to create a shopper with an "inner life" was born in Portugal, in #Alentejo, is where Antonia lives part-time the year. As quoted Antonia feels most creative while drawing sketches while sitting among sheep grazing her land. So when she decided to create her own line of bags, she knew she could make something that would stand out. The OSOND Shopper is a well-thought-through bag with more than enough pockets for smaller items, a larger compartment for laptops or tablets, pockets for sunglasses and mobile phones, as well as a key tag. It's all made with the highest quality materials, so you can rest assured that this bag will last you years—and maybe even decades, and she knows what it takes to make a bag that holds up through it all. Her OSOND shopper line is made from high-quality leather and hand-crafted in Portugal. It's the perfect blend of luxury and practicality—a bag that will last for years and certainly looks good enough to carry into a fancy restaurant or opera house! a collection that is recognizable for its standard of excellence, not With its logo, an OSOND bag is one that will make you fall in love with it. over and over again, your perfect companion @osondbags www.osond.com

The fashion and entertainment industry unite in Hollywood to celebrate interconnected change and positive transformation at this year’s Green Carpet Fashion Awards All images Getty Images courtesy of GCFA. Leonardo Di Caprio, Brazil’s Minister for Indigenous People Sônia Guajajara, Tom Ford, Edward Enninful, Gabriela Hearst and Annie Lennox among presenters and honorees on the night Cate Blanchett wears Valentino Haute Couture look from the Valentino Le Club CoutureSpring/Summer 2023 collection. Perhaps as a nod of appreciation to the Italian host of the evening Livia Giuggioli. CREDIT: Valentino/GettyImages The Green Carpet Fashion Awards 2023 took place on March 9, 2023 at Neuehouse Hollywood. Stars and friends of Livia Giuggioli, who founded the Awards and appeared in a black strapless peplum gown obviously sustainable, posed with Cate Blanchett, both 53, at the Green Carpet Fashion Awards in Hollywood. Cate was not any less elegant in her mint green Haute Couture costume adorned with a Valentino oversize baby pink bow at her left hip. As she hosted some of her famous friends at the event, Giuggioli was also joined by designer Tom Ford, 61, supermodel/Dr Naomi Campbell but also climate activists Sophia Kianni, 21, and Nalleli Cobo, 21, at the awards which celebrate positive forces in fashion and entertainment and their collective ability to move culture forward. Cate Blanchett, Naomi Campbell, Alicia Silverstone, Jerry Hall, Mike D, Trudie Styler, Georgia May Jagger, Rafferty Law, Mariacarla Boscono, Jodie Turner-Smith, Simone Ashley, LP amongst others, walked the interactive carpet at this year’s Green Carpet Fashion Awards at NeueHouse in West Hollywood. The inaugural awards celebrated positive forces in fashion and entertainment, championing interconnected cultural change and the most inspiring efforts that drive it. The Green Carpet Fashion Awards celebrated six cultural archetype honors that are crucial to collective transformation in any community; a special honor in fashion and entertainment and a recognition of fourteen young female leaders who have distinguished themselves for their work on social and environmental justice. The Green Carpet Fashion Awards (GCFA) celebrate positive forces in Fashion and Entertainment, and changemakers who look crisis and conflict in the eye to champion active hope and deep, truthful work for transformation. Heidi Klum keeping with the American motif, she brought the stars and stripes to her feet, wearing Haute Courture Spring-Summer 2023 by Ronald van der Kemp Stars and Stripes Pumps. The Italian-made design is wholly made from repurposed American flags and features a 4.3-inch heel.

TEFAF Maastricht’s 2023 schedule of events, talks, and tours is set to enrich visitors’ experience of the leading international art fair, presenting 273 exhibitors. TEFAF Maastricht 2023 runs from 11 – 19 March. The invitation-only Preview Days take place March 9 and 10, between 11 AM – 7 PM. Van Cleef & Arpels is again at TEFAF Maastricht. Stand number: 15. Along with 268 dealers, 17 of which are first-time exhibitors, visitors are invited to explore 7,000 years of art history from. The invitation-only Preview Days take place March 9 and 10, between 11 AM – 7 PM. Due to the high demand and since the last years edition The 36th edition of TEFAF Maastricht will see a broad and dynamic curation of talks, events, and tours for its visitors: TEFAF Talks, TEFAF Meet the Experts, and TEFAF Tours. The program tracks the lead-up to and duration of TEFAF Maastricht itself, commencing on March 8 and concluding on March 19, 2023. TEFAF Talks will comprise interactive panel discussions to build and challenge conceptions of art history, collecting, and the art market. TEFAF Meet the Experts is a program of interactive conversations with internationally prominent exhibitors, centering on major object highlights across the fair, each a piece of immense historical and cultural merit. Finally, TEFAF Tours are expert-guided explorations of the fair, designed to enable visitors both private and institutional to deepen their knowledge of collecting categories, movements, or themes of interest. Opening the 2023 program on March 11 is a talk by the Financial Times with three art collectors who have their own foundations explaining why and how they created them. The panel features Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, Harald Falckenberg and Joop van Caldenborgh; the panel is moderated by Georgina Adam. TEFAF is also partnering with influential art networks and councils including CODART, the international network of curators of Dutch and Flemish art, and ICOM-CC, the international council of museums - committee for conservation, to enrich and contextualize the 2023 program. Apollo Magazine, and AD France will also moderate talks with leading figures in the decorative arts, including representatives from the Van Gogh Museum, Hispanic Society Museum & Library, and Mobilier national. Within the 2023 program, the Art Business Conference is hosted at TEFAF Maastricht with an exclusive series of talks on Friday March 10 on collecting in the corporate space, tackling how corporate collecting will grow in the future, and the inherent concerns of financialization in the art market. TEFAF Talks presented by Financial Times Inside the Private Museum Three collectors on the phenomenon of private museums in the 21st century Saturday, March 11 2PM – 3PM CET A growing phenomenon of the 21st century, over 400 private art museums are currently established around the world—of which more than half were created in the past two decades. What are the motivations behind these institutions? What are the challenges a collector faces when their private collection becomes public? What unique considerations are there in preserving the legacies of these collections? In this panel, these questions are explored by three art collectors who have built their own foundations and opened their collections to the public: Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo of the Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo in Turin; Harald Falckenberg of Sammlung Falckenberg in Hamburg; and Joop van Caldenborgh of Museum Voorlinden in Wassenaar. TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the knowledge of leading experts in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with the Financial Times and moderated by Georgina Adam, contributor to the FT and author of the recently published The Rise and Rise of the Private Art Museum (Lund Humphries, 2022). PANELLISTS Joop van Caldenborgh, Chairman of the Board, Stichting Voorlinden Harald Falckenberg, Collector, Sammlung Falckenberg Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, President, Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo MODERATOR Georgina Adam, journalist and author TEFAF Talks presented by Apollo The Museum as a Collection of Collections Discover the stories—and personalities—behind private collections in three international museums Saturday, March 11 4PM – 5PM CET What happens to artworks that were once in the possession of private collectors after they enter public institutions? While museums that are named after a single benefactor seem to require little explanation—the Frick Collection in New York or the Wallace Collection in London—encyclopedic museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Louvre can be regarded as a “collection of collections,” offering a home to works collected by private individuals in various ways. In this talk, Guillaume Kientz, director of The Hispanic Society of America, Katherine C. Luber, director of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and Per Hedström, head of exhibitions at the Nationalmuseum Sweden, explore the private collections that are now in their care, the differing ways this came to be, and discuss if it is possible, or even desirable, to convey not only the story of the collected works, but also the personality of their respective collectors. TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the knowledge of leading experts in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with Apollo Magazine and moderated by Fatema Ahmed, deputy editor of Apollo Magazine. PANELLISTS Per Hedström, Director of Exhibitions, Nationalmuseum Sweden Guillaume Kientz, Director, Hispanic Society Museum & Library Katherine Crawford Luber, The Nivin & Duncan MacMillan Director & President, Minneapolis Institute of Art MODERATOR Fatema Ahmed, Deputy Editor, Apollo Magazine TEFAF Talks presented by ICOM-CC powered by AON Conversations on Conservation with KMSKA Unique challenges in restoring a 400-year-old painting by Michaelina Wautier Sunday, March 12 10AM – 11AM CET As a recipient of the 2023 TEFAF Museum Restoration Fund, The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) will be restoring a key work from their collection: Two Girls as Saint Agnes and Dorothea (c. 1650) by Flemish Baroque painter Michaelina Wautier (1604–1689), who occupies an exceptional place in art history. While it was a difficult undertaking for women to become artists, for those that succeeded it was conventional to concentrate on a specific genre deemed appropriate, such as flower and food, still lifes or portraits. Wautier broke with conventions as an unmarried woman, painting—and excelling—across genres, even those usually reserved for her male counterparts, such as genre paintings and large-scale history paintings. In this talk, the KMSKA will discuss and debate the upcoming restoration of their painting by Wautier as they prepare their approach for this almost 400-year-old artwork. While past treatments have ensured that the painting has survived until today, the selection of materials used may not always have been conducive to the longevity of the artwork or may have irrevocably altered the appearance of the image. The challenge for the modern conservator is, can these past treatments be reversed? Can we accept the condition and appearance of the painting as it is seen today? Do past treatments impact the choices the modern-day conservator makes in terms of material selection or application? TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the knowledge of leading experts in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with ICOM-CC and powered by Aon. PANELLISTS Gwen Borms, Head of the Conservation Studio, Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) Natalia Gustavson, Freelance Paintings Conservator, Lecturer at the University of Amsterdam Carmen Willems, General Director, Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) MODERATOR Kate Seymour, Chair, ICOM-CC TEFAF Talks presented by Apollo How Vincent Became Van Gogh Exploring the role of Van Gogh’s family in his meteoric rise to fame Sunday, March 12 2PM – 3PM CET One of the world’s most enduring artistic legacies, Vincent van Gogh’s global renown was in large part due to the efforts of his family. The world’s understanding of his work would be incomplete and his eponymous museum in Amsterdam would not exist without the tireless efforts of Van Gogh’s brother Theo van Gogh (1857-1891), Theo’s wife Jo Bonger-van Gogh (1862-1925), and their son Vincent Willem van Gogh (1890-1978). This panel focuses on the impact of the artist’s family on his notoriety and explores how members of the Van Gogh family have contributed to our understanding of Van Gogh’s life and work over the years. It also asks how this contribution has influenced—and continues to influence—how Van Gogh’s work has been collected by private individuals and museums. Does more insight into Van Gogh’s life change how we perceive his paintings and change the value they are ascribed, in more ways than one? Sharing their perspectives on these questions are Lisa Smit, curator of paintings at the Van Gogh Museum, and Vincent Willem van Gogh, Theo van Gogh’s great-grandson. TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the knowledge of leading experts in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with Apollo Magazine and moderated by Fatema Ahmed, deputy editor of Apollo Magazine. PANELLISTS V. Willem van Gogh, Advisor to the Board, Van Gogh Museum Lisa Smit, Curator of Paintings, Van Gogh Museum MODERATOR Edward Behrens, Editor, Apollo Magazine TEFAF Talks presented by AD France The Past is Present: A Newfound Sentimentality for Design Heritage Three experts reflect on how design history and preservation are shaping public taste Sunday, March 12 In recent years, a surge in interest in design heritage has fuelled new developments in interior design, conservation, exhibition design, and publishing, amongst others. How are these developments shaping design history and the way the general public interacts with furniture? How does heritage preservation influence global taste? In this talk, Oscar Duboÿ, journalist AD France, Michael Diaz-Griffith, executive director and COO of the Design Leadership Network and author of the forthcoming publication The New Antiquarians: At Home with Young Collectors (The Monacelli Press, 2023) and Lucile Montagne, heritage curator of contemporary collections, Mobilier national, and Boris Vervoordt, Axel Vervoordt Company, discuss the world of design from various perspectives. TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the knowledge of leading experts in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with AD France. PANELLISTS Michael Diaz-Griffith, Executive Director & COO, Design Leadership Network Lucile Montagne, Heritage Curator of Contemporary Collections, Mobilier National Boris Vervoordt, Axel Vervoordt Company MODERATOR Oscar Duboÿ, journalist Website: www.tefaf.com/fairs/tefaf-maastricht TEFAF and AXA XL, its Lead Partner, share the view that there's more to art than meets the eye. Learn more about AXA XL here. TEFAF is a not-for-profit foundation that champions expertise and diversity in the global art community, evidenced in the exhibitors selected for its two fairs, which take place annually in Maastricht and New York. TEFAF acts as an expert guide for both private and institutional collectors, which inspires lovers and buyers of art everywhere. TEFAF Maastricht is widely regarded as the world’s premier fair for fine art, antiques, and design. Featuring over 240 prestigious dealers from some 20 countries, TEFAF Maastricht is a showcase for the finest art works currently on the market. Alongside the traditional areas of Old Master paintings, antiques, and classical antiquities that cover approximately half of the fair, you can also find modern and contemporary art, photography, jewelry, 20th century design, and works on paper.

Lisa Nikfarjam, founder and designer of the Lisa Nik jewelry brand, comes from a successful corporate career with an Italian luxury jewelry firm before establishing her eponymous brand; which gives her freedom to fully immerse in her passion, designing and conducting business, all in five languages. As a Couture jewelry designer, Lisa’s main focus is on one-of-a-kind pieces showcasing rare and unusual gemstones. The brand also works on bespoke commissions for both women and men, and has designed and created unique pieces for well-known personalities, athletes, and A-list celebrities, who are loyal customers and fans of the brand. Lisa Nik Stylized Diamonds. All images courtesy of Lisa Nik Fine Jewelry Her muse a client that is equally educated, well-traveled, stylish and fashionable woman, who strives for success in all her endeavors. The brand, based in Los Angeles and New York, has grown consistently and is available at more than sixty fine jewelry retailers and luxury resorts around the world; it frequently partners with these luxury stores for in-person appearance shows to further solidify a special connection to collectors of fine jewelry and gems from across the world. Lisa’s vast experience selecting the best colored stone material from all over the world translates in jewellery crafted using materials of the highest quality, 18 Kt. gold, diamonds and colored gemstones including rubellite, tourmaline, tanzanite, Mexican fire opal, Australian opal, and multicolored sapphire. The Lisa Nik brand actively supports efforts to find a cure for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) as well as various children’s charities and those that promote and support the advancement of women. How did you start as a Jewelry designer back in 2010? I founded Lisa Nik after leaving an almost 12 year career as the executive vice president of an Italian luxury brand. During my time there, I designed and developed many best selling items and collections, with a distinct interpretation of the fine jewelry category. My love of color, keen eye for unusual gemstones, and a passion for diamonds, inspired me to establish my eponymous brand, Lisa Nik, that leans into this aesthetic. Lisa Nik Stylized Sapphires and Diamonds I am inspired by classic style icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and keep these timeless beauties in mind during my creative process. The feminine, modern woman wears Lisa Nik as her everyday power jewelry with the knowledge that best-in-class stones, 18K rose gold, and limited production runs of each makes a piece unique to its wearer. Lisa Nikfarjam, founder and designer of the Lisa Nik jewellery brand "I grew up in Los Angeles near the ocean and lived in New York City for many years, and as a result, I am deeply connected to the beauty found in nature as well as the structure found in modern architecture emulated in the geometric shapes of the gemstones we use." - Lisa Nikfarjam, founder and designer of the Lisa Nik jewellery brand When I use aquamarines and blue topaz, I am dreaming of a day by the ocean. Mexican fire opal creations bring me joy when I want to reminisce about a romantic night watching the sunset. When I need my fix of stately pines in the mountains, I gravitate to the richness of Paraiba tourmaline. The cacophony of colors in gems affects my mood, as the medley symbolizes the beauty that surrounds me each day. As a gemologist, I am forever curious, searching for the rarest gemstones and presenting them to my discerning customers. Your brand also works on bespoke commissions for both women and men, why does taste in jewelry design diverge between these two populations? What are the most unique commissions you have made? Jewelry design, by nature, is rather solitary so when I take on a bespoke assignment, I enjoy the intensity, attention to detail, and collaborative design process, with the end result being a joyful piece and the intent to hand it down as an heirloom for future generations. Like the entire industry, I am seeing an emerging request for men’s jewelry, which is a new category of products for me. I recently created custom black onyx and diamond buttons for a man’s winter coat, which was unusual but really fun for me. I also get a charge seeing a three-sided diamond cube necklace that a MLB player commissioned from me to wear during his baseball games. Who are your favorite designers outside your profession? My husband is Greek and each summer our family spends time in Greece. I love to stroll the shops and collect incredible fashions and shoes from unknown designers who are pure talent. Some of my greatest compliments come from these finds. Nike is a brand that resonates for me because each user has its own Nike story, and despite some collections like Jordans being decades old, the brand is timeless in its own right and offers something for fans, collectors, and everyday users. I also love the simplicity of an Alaïa dress. #Alaïa is one of those timeless brands in which a dress bought 20 years ago still looks modern, fresh, and gorgeous on its wearer. I see a little bit of the Lisa Nik DNA in both of these brands, as I design one-of-a-kind, elegant statement pieces that become intrinsic to a person’s signature look and intended to spread joy. Philanthropy is important to you and your brand and in particular your active supports to find a cure for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). How did you get involved in raising funds for this research? Almost a decade ago, my father was diagnosed with ALS. During his five-year illness, I watched my hero and inspiration deteriorate until his death in 2019. The care involved with ALS is a great challenge for those sick and their families. To honor the memory of my father, I created homage to the 2014 #IceBucketChallenge with my ice cube-inspired rock crystal quartz bracelet. All proceeds from the sale of this bracelet fund the Johns Hopkins Department of Neurology, which is on the forefront of ALS research. What advice would you give to someone interested in getting into the jewelry design business? If you are a creative person who appreciates beauty, art, and design, the jewelry industry is a great place for these passions. I recommend becoming a GIA Graduate Gemologist; the schooling is vital to learning the science and technical knowledge needed to work with the entire range of diamonds and colored gemstones. I also believe that working as a sales associate for a fine jeweler offers strong exposure to what customers’ jewelry passions are and how to sell. I love mentoring young people, and I always recommend befriending someone who can become a sounding board to discuss this multi-faceted industry. If a person possesses a relentless focus and works with diligence and confidence then this business can be richly rewarding. I have often served as a coach and mentor for GIA and have personally advised students about how to embark on their journeys to become designers. I suggest not listening to too many voices and opinions because involving too many points of view along the way causes the essence of the mission to be diluted. I recommend moving forward without hesitation or reservation because looking back, the only thing I would do differently is being more aggressive at the inception. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, expect opposition; creative and entrepreneurial people are often marginalized by others who covet the skills and audacity required to succeed. Relentless focus and diligence are what will ultimately make it possible to face opposition and reach objectives. What is your favorite piece you’ve created recently – and what made it so special? I am at my best when I am creating custom pieces after getting to know someone. My deep connection to each client is my secret sauce to designing with confidence for a special recipient. I loved crafting a bespoke Paraiba cuff bracelet and a bold cushion-shaped blue-green tourmaline ring, which were special orders. In both situations, the clients’ personalities were able to come through using colorful stones, cutting-edge design, and my high jewelry signature details (such as the adornment of diamonds in my new luxury setting); I shined bright during the collaborative process in which the mandate from both clients was to be bold and create strong statements. Being based in Los Angeles and New York, you have extended to more than 60 fine jewelry retailers and luxury resorts around the world; which destinations in Europe and Asia can discover your creations today? Being based in Los Angeles, celebrities have found the Lisa Nik bespoke collection, and as a founder, I often work directly with individuals to create special occasion designs; I also help dress and style my VIPs. And while some of the Lisa Nik collection pieces have been worn on the red carpet, most creations are imagined for artists, actors, and musicians and are private acquisitions. The world is certainly smaller and more accessible because of my ever-growing social media presence and collection shared on www.lisanik.com. I am delighted that these channels, as well as our monthly newsletters that I write and feature pieces in, allow my customers to become a part of the Lisa Nik journey. I have a showroom and headquarters in Beverly Hills, CA, and encourage our collectors to discover our design process when visiting from abroad.

Alexis Mabille's fall 2023/2024 collection features 15 unquestionably strong and monochrome looks, all in warm earth tones, blushing pinks, and gold! Photo: Julie Trannoy. Courtesy of www.alexismabille.com With a range of warm colors, the sensual theme is highlighted with attention to detail and waist, often accessorized with this belt featuring an embelished buckle on long princess dresses with a tight bodice, or the opposite version of sensuality in a beautiful parachute dress or many Corolla bustier dresses. This time Mabille's favored Hellenic silhouette and sharply tailored pointy shoulders are absent, but the edgy styles give this collection strong relevance for day and evening events. There is one feature that every collection has, and it was so elegantly presented on a long corolla dress in mustard and black colored changing taffeta, with black lace inserts again and a matching belt. The designer refrains from embroidery, completely giving attention to the silhouette and luxurious fabrics that flow around the body in a contemporary way and the dynamics that his clients seek. By allowing the outfits and colors to speak their own language, this collection, aptly named "Raibow Drops," has something more than rainbow jollity—couture poetry.

Internationally acclaimed chef Hélène Darroze launces her latest concept in the 2nd Arrondissement in Paris, ahead of the International Women's Day. Hélène Darroze, a fourth-generation chef, started winning Michelin start over two decades ago, and holds the prestigious awarded The Legion of Honour, France’s highest order of merit. It is a great award to Paris that she opens a new venue, located only a few hundred metres from her already popular bistro, Jòia, Jòia Bun is the result of a successful venture she explored during the Covid lockdown of 2020-21. Txanguro dish ©Gurler Gulben Hélène explains, "During the pandemic closures, my team and I launched a takeaway and delivery pop-up of premium burgers called Jòia Burger. A casual, adapted and extended offering, in line with our values and vision of gastronomy. It was a huge success, and we soon built a loyal following. When the restaurants finally reopened, we had to regretfully close it. When this new site became available at 16 Rue de la Michodière, I knew I had found the ideal location to meet the demand. I'm so pleased to bring the burgers back with the new Jòia Bun." Amatxi ©Gurler Gulben Modelled on an American Diner, Jòia Bun will be lively and authentic with an open kitchen and bar, mixed with a French atmosphere of elegance and warmth. Street food styled, Jòia Bun, will also offer Hélène’s vision of a burger cuisine following the same principles of her gastronomy: produce of excellent quality; respect for the season; authenticity of taste; generosity in the offering; and a combination of her signature flavours - brought from the Basque-Landes, her home region. "To make a good burger, you have to be strict about the quality of the ingredients you use", adds Hélène. At Jòia Bun, Hélène commits to: ● Source at least 95% of all produce from France. Especially core produce such as meat - even wagyu - fish or shellfish, cheese, fruit and vegetables ● Use only seasonal produce (e.g. no fresh tomatoes except between June and October) ● Ingredients will come exclusively from producers with whom Hélène has long-lasting relationships. In #Paris, there is Huguenin for meat; in Saint- Jean de Luz Beñat for cheese; duck foie gras from Dupérier and shellfish from Kaviari ● Everything will be made in-house, according to personalised recipes based on Basque-Landes region traditions. Sauces - ketchup, barbecue, mayonnaise - will also be made to bespoke recipes. Breads will be baked in-house alongside other pastries at Hélène’s flagship located 4 Rue d'Assas ● Everything will be cooked to order, whether guests eat in or takeaway. Salads will be assembled and seasoned only when ordered and all packaging will be eco-responsible.

By Elga Wimmer This is a journey through music and the visual arts, from New York to Paris to Dubai and back to New York, investigating artists whose work is based on or influenced by music. Throughout history, music and art have been considered a divine match, but how does that pairing translate into contemporary practice? Today music is instantly available on everyone’s smartphone, creating a sonic atmosphere in every space we move through, from corporate offices to restaurants to gyms. How do visual artists pick and choose from this overload to utilize sound in their sculptures, paintings, videos, films, and performances? Patrice LeRochereuil Do-Mi-Do Dominos 2018 Patrice LeRochereuil, a French artist residing in New York since 1987, manifests an affinity with the Fluxus movement in his performances, drawings, paintings, and sculptures. Sound and music are very prevalent in such works as Do-mi-do Dominos (2018), a painting of a piano whose keys correspond to dominos bearing different numbers, each matching a musical note. Much like Fluxus members Dieter Roth and Wolf Vostell, LeRochereuil sometimes destroys instruments. In his performance Let Me Die… (2018) he created an aggravating sound by drilling holes into a guitar with an electric tool. The artist started the performance by playing a Bob Dylan song on his guitar, then stopped, started drilling, and repeated the process, until the guitar was no longer functional (Zurich, Cabaret Voltaire, “100 years of Dada,” 2016). Thus, the guitar punctuated with holes, became a sculpture like a Duchampian readymade. It also recalls a certain violence, but in a poetic and humorous sense, which is the essence of #LeRochereuil’s body of work. Phonemophonic Alphabet Brass Band @ Armory NY, courtesy Carol Szymanki studio Phonemophonic Alphabet Brass Band @ Armory NY, courtesy Carol Szymanki studio On a recent visit to the Sharjah Biennial, I stopped in Dubai, where I discovered Efie Gallery in the Alserkal district – Dubai’s version of New York’s Chelsea – a contemporary art gallery highlighting work by artists of African origin. After I toured the show of Ethiopian artist Aida Muluneh on the ground floor, gallery director Kwame Mintah led me to the second floor Rekord Gallery, which displays rare vinyl records from around the world. These disks are one of our richest art forms, encompassing the artistry of the cover, the historical specificity of the liner notes, and the music itself. Rekord Gallery is a Pandora’s box of records, including works such as Ikoyi Blindness (1975) by Nigerian artist Fela Kuti, The Word II (1975) by Japanese artist Shigeo Sekito, and Prince of Space, Musik der Leere (1959) by legendary French artist Yves Klein. For the Klein piece, Charles Wilp conducted the Outer Space Philharmonic Orchestra in a “no sound” recording, the ear detecting only the sound of the needle touching the record. This composition related perfectly to Yves Klein’s 1958 show without art, “The Void” at Iris Clert in Paris. The gallery, painted white by the artist, exhibited only an empty display case. Patrice LeRochereuil Let me die... performance 2018 At Marclay’s recent show at the Centre Pompidou, a wall was covered with “body mixes,” record covers that are mixed and stacked to form surrealist bodies (the face of David Bowie, the midriff of a female in jeans, the legs of a woman in lace stockings) – a kind of Exquisite Corpse of iconic, sexy album covers, displayed in a playful installation. The wall felt like a visual memorial to pop legends from Diana Ross to Grace Jones, from Bowie to Prince. Marclay perfectly matches high and low art, pop icons and classical conductors, play and politics. Tahmineh #Monzavi PAST CONTINUES, musician Fazila Zumin. Christian Marclay. Foot Stompin (from the series ‘Body Mix’), 1991 record covers and cotton thread 17 1/4 x 36 inches (43.8 x 91.4 cm), frame: 22 1/2 x 41 1/4 x 2 in. (57.2 x 104.8 x 5.1 cm). © Christian #Marclay. Courtesy Paula Cooper Gallery, New York. The work of multi-media artist Christian Marclay, based in New York and London, also has its origin in the realm of sound. Since the late 1970s, he has explored the potential of vinyl records bought mostly in flea markets and manipulated manually on turntables, as well as myriad digital samples. He collages diverse fragmentary tracks to create unique “sound objects.” Like Yves Klein, Marclay is fascinated by the invisibility and seeming immateriality of sound. At the same time, he takes an interest in physical objects relating to music. Christian Marclay. Guitar Drag (still), 2000, video projection, view #1, running time 14 minutes. © Christian Marclay. Courtesy Paula Cooper Gallery, New York. What you cannot hear or see is often a major element of Marclay’s work. His installation “Guitar Drag” (2000) features a video shot in Texas, where the artist dragged an electric guitar behind a pickup truck. The resulting cacophony, channeled through an amplifier, evokes noise music and the destruction of instruments at rock concerts. The Fender Stratocaster, dragged like a body behind the truck, evokes a dark history of Southern slavery and the Blues—as well, more specifically, the murder of James Byrd Jr. near Jasper, Texas, in 1998. Since the late 1980’s, New York artist Carol #Szymanski has used phonetic symbols, sound, and language to create brass sculptures resembling musical instruments. Szymanski’s practice also includes compositions that are then played on her “instruments” by professional musicians. She points out that the human body and mouth shape the sound that is then transferred to her sculptures. In October 2022, Szymanski presented the world premiere of the Phonemophonic Alphabet Brass Band, a collaboration between the sculptor and avant-garde trumpeter Jaimie Branch. This performance at the historic Park Avenue Armory in Manhattan, featured an aural animation of 26 brass-horn sculptures, whose shapes are based on the phonetic alphabet. Tahmineh Monzavi PAST CONTINUES, musician Fazila Zumin Tahmineh Monzavi is an Iranian artist working in film and photography. “Past Continues” (2008 -2016) is a series of short films shot in abandoned worn-torn homes and historic buildings in Afghanistan and Iran. There performers dance, sing and recite in their native language, conveying a sense of tragedy. In one of the films on a derelict site – with only a cat wandering through – musician Fazila Zamiri (from Kabul) plays eerie sounds on a rubab (a plucked shell neck lute, the national instrument of Afghanistan). She is a well-known member of the Afghanistan Music Academy. In another film in the series, Iranian artist Ava Darvishi (well known in the theater of Tehran), dances in a ruin to music by her sister, Aftab Darvishi, in a manner reminiscent of the Dance of the Seven Veils (Salome’s dance before King Herod, as presented in Oscar Wilde’s play Salome). The actress and performer, dressed in black veils, expresses profound sorrow and lament. Women in Afghanistan and Iran, despite efforts to make them invisible, have raised their voices to oppose dictatorship and war through what American author Hakim Bey called “poetic terrorism,” a way to stop people in their tracks by peaceful and poetic demonstration. Rekord Gallery @Efie Gallery Theaster Gates, Billy Sings Amazing Grace (still), 2013. Courtesy of Theaster Gates Studio, Chicago. Photo: Chris Strong Theaster Gates, Billy Sings Amazing Grace (still), 2013. Courtesy of Theaster Gates Studio, Chicago. Photo: Chris Strong Theaster Gates uses music as a means of communicating across social and racial borders, part of his multidisciplinary blend of social practice, activism, performance artist, and visionary urban development. At Documenta 13 (2012), he set up residence in an abandoned hotel, the Huguenot House, with his artist friends, who randomly came together for jam sessions. The performances of The Black Monks of Mississippi made the Huguenot House a central hub for the spiritual life of Documenta 13. This performance was transferred in part to this year’s Sharjah Biennial (February 7 to June 11), with the presentation of the film Billy Sings Amazing Grace (2013), chronicling a rehearsal of The Black Monks. Drawing from Blues in his improvisation, singer Billy Forston gives a heart-wrenching gospel-like performance. The rawness of his delivery is captivating, recalling early Blues greats like Bessie Smith and Blind Lemon Jefferson. Theaster Gates’s work never ceases to surprise! The symbiosis of music, visual art, and performance prompts a complex emotional response, stimulating several senses at once, unlocking emotions, triggering memories, and inspiring action. The contemporary artists in “The Influence of Music in Art” use that power with great effectiveness. Elga Wimmer Feb. 25, 2023

With the book Dior Metamorphosis, Robert Polidori invites us on an exceptional private viewing of the secrets behind the scenes of 30 Montaigne, the House’s beating heart. Dior Metamorphosis. Christian Dior, Bar ensamble, Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1947 © Robert Polidori Dior Metamorphosis. Gianfranco Ferré, Hellébore dress, Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1995 © Robert Polidori For over two years, the building underwent major renovation work, evolving from deconstruction to resurrection. Thus, the photographer was able to cast his gaze on both what had been and what was becoming. Amidst cables and rubble, light and beauty shine through in his unique images. The ultimate expression of this reinvention, Dior’s emblematic models, such as the essential Barsuit, are featured in this singular decor. A strong, modern artistic choice glowing with the spirit of the founding-couturier, with the aura of #Dior style, like a powerful prophecy of tomorrow’s world and fashion.

All images courtesy of Emirates With a clear mission to forge inclusive work cultures where women's careers thrive and their achievements are celebrated, the Emirates Group is focusing on the 2023 International Women’s Day theme of #EmbraceEquity through discussions on gender equity, record levels of female promotions and providing company-wide access to ‘Unconscious Bias’ training. Women at Emirates Group More than 23,000 women are employed by the Emirates Group, representing 41% of the total workforce employed at Emirates worldwide and dnata in the UAE. This sizeable number has been on an upward trajectory in 2023 and active recruitment continues. Currently almost 40% of middle and senior management positions across non-operational grades are held by women at Emirates Group. Emirates recently demonstrated its commitment to gender balance by officially signing the UAE Gender Balance Council’s pledge, supporting the UAE government’s efforts to increase female representation at middle to senior management positions by 2025. The pledge supports the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal to achieve gender equality, empowering all women and girls. As part of the pledge, Emirates agreed to support the UAE Gender Balance Council’s work by sharing data and best practices, as well as maintaining an ongoing internal review of company policies, practices, and procedures. Pay Equity As the world’s largest international airline and one of world’s largest air services provider, Emirates and dnata are renowned as one of the best companies to work for in the UAE. Emirates Group pay and benefits structures are free from gender bias, with remuneration offered based on skills and experience, regardless of gender or nationality. Record Promotions for Women Celebrating thriving careers, women at Emirates Group account for 56% of total promotions in the last 12 months, the highest figure to date. Emirates Group has many women in leadership roles who have received multiple promotions and worked with the company for more than a decade. Access to World-Class Training Emirates Group employees have access to a vast range of educational courses and learning opportunities, as well as in-person training on a range of topics. This International Women’s Day, all employees are being directed to the ‘Unconscious Bias’ learning path on the newly launched Emirates ‘Future Skills’ portal. The bespoke learning journey designed by Emirates, is available to all colleagues and has 6 modules including Break the Bias, Valuing Intersectionality, Women’s Voices, Diversity Equity & Inclusion, Allyship and Culture of Belonging. The Human Resources department is leading the way with over 500 HR employees starting the learning journey, and over 70% completion rate so far. Women also have access to a suite of Executive Leadership programmes and the opportunity to complete international educational qualifications, financially supported by the company. Celebrating Achievements In addition to promotions, employees can be rewarded with Najm awards - a programme recognising outstanding contributions across the Emirates Group. The aim of Najm is to enhance a sense of belonging and appreciation, enabling employees to feel energised, inspired and empowered to achieve meaningful goals. Najm awards give Emirates Group employees options to redeem cash prizes, travel vouchers, gift cards and more. The Najm award is also recorded in the employee’s official employment record as a career highlight. In the last 12 months, 35% of Najm awards were awarded to women. Looking to the Future The Emirates Group recognises that the International Women’s Day theme of #EmbraceEquity is an opportunity to unify direction and galvanize activity, by creating a meaningful framework to amplify action. In signing the UAE Gender Balance Council’s pledge, Emirates Group has committed to introducing more compliance measures to prevent bias in the hiring processes, identifying, developing, and working on the succession of female leaders in the organisation and reviewing policies to prioritise gender equality in practices and procedures. About International Women's Day International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality. IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 involving over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively, everywhere. #IWD2023 #EmbraceEquity The Emirates Group today concluded an exciting National Service Career Fair, which started on 6 March 2023 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, with more than 600 applications received throughout the three days, reemphasising the organisation’s position as an employer of choice for UAE Nationals.