Postcard from Venice:
HAPPY SUMMER HOLIDAYS
XOX from Pixel and Jay peg Pin It
Monday, July 31, 2006
VENEZIA
Punta Sabbioni - Sand art. Ollek Masarik is from Czechoslovakia and he spends his summers going up and down the coasts of Italy, France and Spain, "sculpting" big crocodiles and big fishes in the sand. It takes him about six hours to complete a three to four meter alligator. He is very talented and has two assistants who bring him buckets of sea water. I couldn't think of a better way to enjoy the seaside, create and also earn a little bit of pocket money on the side. Have you come across him yet?
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Wednesday, July 19, 2006
photograph courtesy Missoni Press
LOVE BEADS
Margherita Missoni, president of orphanage Africa Italia, is the advocate of the Love Beads, Sexy e Solidale Campaign by Missoni, made in Ghana. All the proceeds from this lovely belt will go the Orphanage Africa Onlus, a non profit organization, that helps the needy children of Ghana. Love beads are not only a symbol of feminality, but also a ceremonial ornament. Hand made, of very tiny glass beads, these belts are worn by the women of Ghana, traditionally next to the skin, hidden, as if they were an intimate part of the body. Every color has a particular significance, and the belts are worn in odd numbers only. Once worn, they should never be taken off. And, they have a strong sexual claim so, don't waste any time. You can buy the Love beads in all the Missoni Boutiques and support the needy children of Ghana.
www.missoni.com Orphanage Africa Onlus: Tel. 340 8715915 italia@oafrica.org - www.oafrica.org
Margherita Missoni, president of orphanage Africa Italia, is the advocate of the Love Beads, Sexy e Solidale Campaign by Missoni, made in Ghana. All the proceeds from this lovely belt will go the Orphanage Africa Onlus, a non profit organization, that helps the needy children of Ghana. Love beads are not only a symbol of feminality, but also a ceremonial ornament. Hand made, of very tiny glass beads, these belts are worn by the women of Ghana, traditionally next to the skin, hidden, as if they were an intimate part of the body. Every color has a particular significance, and the belts are worn in odd numbers only. Once worn, they should never be taken off. And, they have a strong sexual claim so, don't waste any time. You can buy the Love beads in all the Missoni Boutiques and support the needy children of Ghana.
www.missoni.com Orphanage Africa Onlus: Tel. 340 8715915 italia@oafrica.org - www.oafrica.org
Monday, July 10, 2006
Photograph by Manfredi Bellati
VIVA L'ITALIA
Jay Peg is still enjoying basking in the glory of Italy's fourth victory in the soccer World Cup, while Pixel eagerly looks on hoping for more celebratory treats. They are completely exhausted from rooting for the Azzurri this past month. BRAVISSIMI.............. Pin It
Thursday, July 06, 2006
VENEZIA
Basilica di San Marco. Let me leave you with this "magical" special effect, in which I am trying to transmit to you too, the emotion we all felt during this unforgettable concert. Lorin Maazel conducted the Symphonica Toscanini in Anton Bruckner's 8th symphony. The concert was organized by Venice Foundation president, Franca Coin to raise money for the restructuring of the Cupola of Creation inside the Basilica di San Marco. The patriarchal curia to the Basilica, Mons. Antonio Meneguolo, describes the emotions he felt " I was struck by the intensity and the strength with which Maestro Maazel conducted. He lost the baton three times and he conducted the whole symphony by heart, without a musical score. He transported the orchestra with his engaging way. The symphony he chose, he performs with such intensive greatness in the recurrent motifs that go from vivace to intenso to profondo."
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VENEZIA
Basilica di San Marco. It was appropriate that writer John Berendt should be present at the concert directed by Lorin Maazel, in the Basilica, the proceeds of which will go towards the restructuring of the Cupola of Creation. The cupola, is also know as the "Cupola of Angels", because in each of the seven segments winged figures are depicted. And like in John's book about Venice, The City of Falling Angels (The Penguin Press) the angels in the cupola also need restoring. John was in Venice for the book party, in a special cordoned off section of the Piazza San Marco, to mark the end of his world tour book launch. He told me that the concert ".... was a momentous occasion. Very exciting and I felt completely surrounded by the sound, more than ever I have in a symphony hall."
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Wednesday, July 05, 2006
VENEZIA
Palazzo Ducale. Besides all the Venetian and Milanese socialites present at the Lorin Maazel concert which will benefit the restoration of The Cupola of Creation inside the Basilica of San Marco. A few illustrious Americans were also present. Beautiful, talented writer and performer, Victoria Labalme was talking to Professor of American studies at Venice University, Rosella Mamoli Zorzi. Victoria's mother was the late Venetian historian, Patricia Labalme and a great friend of Rosella's. Victoria has been entertaining and inspiring audiences with her performance keynotes, coaching, and communications. Her unique theatrical keynotes are a dynamic and engaging blend of customized comedy, acting, movement, original witty film clips, and cutting edge commentary. I invite you to visit her website it is hilarious or "Visceral Fun" as the New York Daily News calls her. Unanimously, they both told me that the concert was a "Great event, wonderful symphony, sublime."
www.victorialabalme.comwww.basilicasanmarco.it www.venicefoundation.org www.maestromaazel.com www.univiu.org
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VENEZIA
Palazzo Ducale. After the magical Bruckner concert conducted by Lorin Maazel dinner was served in the Ducal Palace, the proceeds will finance the restoration of The Cupola of Creation, inside the Basilica di San Marco. In it's 10th anniversary, Venice Foundation president and concert organizer, Franca Coin, is being interview for the third time by yet another TV station. She said "The Basilica di San Marco is an extraordinary place; it represents not only Venice, but the whole world. Thanks to the generosity of the friends of Venice Foundation the restoration can now begin. Inspired by the Cotton Bible The Cupola of Creation is the work of Venetian artisans who learnt the art of mosaics from the Byzantines in the XIII Century. Legend has it, that Marco Polo used to go into San Marco and spend hours "reading" the stories told in the spectacular gold mosaics."
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Monday, July 03, 2006
VENEZIA
Basilica di San Marco. Lorin Maazel is arriving at the Basilica di San Marco to conduct the neo Symphonica Toscanini, an offshoot of the Filarmonica Arturo Toscanini of which he is also musical director. The concert was organized by Venice Foundation and the proceeds will finance the restoration of The cupola of Creation, inside the Basilica. Note, the score the Maestro is carrying, however, also note that he conducted the whole of Anton Bruckner's 8th Symphony without it. Since the age of five when he started studying the violin and the piano he has had an exceptional photographic memory. Another amusing tidbit is that the Maestro never wears tails, he wears his white tie with an impeccably cut dinner jacket.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
CAPRI
Time to go home. I'm very sad on the aliscafo going from Capri to Naples to catch my plane. In the background is Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. It is the only volcano on the European mainland to have erupted within the last hundred years, although it is not currently erupting. Vesuvius is notorious for its destruction of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD. It has erupted many times since and is today regarded as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world because of the population of 3,000,000 people now living close to it and its tendency towards explosive eruptions. It is however a magnificent sight. I'm certainly going to go back to Capri next year to explore all the other places I didn't get to this year, so I can tell you all about them.
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The intellectuals have houses in Anacapri, which can be reached by car and is situated on the highest part of the island. While you are there, the monumental church of San Michele is certainly worth a visit just to admire the exquisite majolica tiled floor, which dates from 1761 and was the work of Leonardo Chiaiese. In the centre is an angel, his sword in flames, who is driving Adam and Eve from the garden of Eden. On high is the devil, in the form of a serpent wrapped around the trunk of a beautiful tree. Various exotic animals are imaginatively depicted and near the entrance the floor is painted with remarkable figures of domestic animals. You must absolutely not miss this unique example of Neapolitan 18th-century architecture.
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photograph by Susanne Thun
Local products # 3 - lemons. Agapanthus and lemon trees line the Thun's private "bowling alley". Lemons are the symbol of Capri, they grow everywhere and are used not only in cooking but as inspiration for and on everything. You can find lemons painted on jugs, soap dishes, tea towels, plates and tiles. Or you can buy scented lemon chocolate, soap and perfume, the best is from Carthusia, I Profumi di Capri. Or try the delicious limoncello liqueur which comes in a variety of bottles in all shapes and sizes including the boot shape representing Italy. Or taste the cakes, biscuits, granite, sorbets and spaghetti al limone, just to mention a few dishes made with lemons.
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CAPRI
The paparazzi. There are four paparazzi agencies on Island. The photographers roam the Piazzetta, the restaurants and the discos chasing celebrities. They work hard from seven pm to four am every day of the week. One of the main fun pastimes today is to go and look at the contact sheets and have your photo printed. Gaetano Cafaggi, of Foto Rosso started working with a German, 35mm, Voigtlander camera, way back when the Vesuvio volcano was still smoking. After being thrown a whisky and soda in the face by the legendary American filmmaker, John Schlesinger, he later became his personal photographer and rose to Capri paparazzi fame. Gaetano has stories to tell about all the stars, and believe me he has seen them all, but his favorite was Brigit Bardot, because she was so fresh and fabulous, he also loved la Loren, but wasn't too fond of la Lollo.
Foto Rosso - Via Camerelle 31 - Capri - tel +39 081 8377477 www.johnschlesinger.org www.sophialoren.com www.ginalollobrigida.com
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CAPRI
A charming hotel. Since the mid 1800's the Esposito family have owned and have been running the Hotel Gatto Bianco or white cat, in the center of Capri. It is strategically placed, near the Piazzetta and in the heart of shopping-land. Whilst, other hotels have lost their identity this little charming hotel, though modern and comfortable, has maintained the Capri style of interior decoration. Beautiful majolica tiles characterize the interior and the patio garden of the hotel, as do the pastel colors used throughout and the paintings all dedicated to Capri. This is where the intellectuals, journalist and writers, as well as, the America's Cup team stay. When Jackie O used to come to Capri, she was met just as she was getting off the yacht Christina and brought up to the Gatto Bianco for lunch. Jackie's favorite dish was Gnocchi alla Valentina, gnocchi made with spinach and a pale pink sauce of tomatoes and cream.
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Friday, June 30, 2006
CAPRI
After a pizza you must get an ice cream from this typical kiosk, right in the center of Capri on the Via Vittorio Emanuele, near to the luxury, Quisisana hotel. After the second world war, Costanzo Spataro could often be found along the lanes of Capri behind the wheel of his famous barrow, from which he sold the most delicious ice creams and crushed ice drinks to the tourists strolling leisurely around. The success of this enterprise inspired him to convert an old wood store into a small bar. Thus in 1952 the Bar Scialapopolo was born, Scialapopolo means, "come and have fun". Today the crushed ice drinks or granite, panini with the famous salsetta dressing, coconut and warm bread rolls, not to mention the exquisite mulberries all have one characteristic in common: the authenticity of the ingredients.
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CAPRI
The Best Pizza in Capri can be found at Ristorante Da Gemma. The oven photographed above dates back to 1300 and it's the oldest bread oven on Island, incorporated above it is a tile depicting Sant' Antonio Abate known as the "Lord of Fire". When you walk in turn left and head straight for the "oven room", it's where to sit, don't be distracted and ask for a table on the veranda. Here you can watch Silvio at work, he has been making pizzas for thirty five years. His specialty is the Sfilatino a stuffed bundle of cheeses and ham and it's so delicious. This was the favorite restaurant of Britain's greatest novelist, Graham Greene, who had a house in Anacapri called Il Rosaio, you can read all about his life on the island in Shirley Hazzard's memoir called Graham Greene on Capri. Before you leave Da Gemma, it is also fun to look at the photo gallery in the main room of all the other film stars and Vips who have been there since the 1950's.
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CAPRI
Lunch at Peter and Mariella # 3. Peter Van Schalkwyk is very British and after many years of living and working in Italy, as an art director in the best advertising agencies, he still has a charming strong very English accent when he talks Italian. His passion has always been painting and he loves to paint on Capri. Mariella describes his style "Peter is a true artist. Now that he is retired he is painting full time. His work is Turner-esque, modernized and revisited." Peter paints beautiful landscapes, interiors and figurative paintings. He is very fond of the Glasgow School and painters like Samuel John Peploe and Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell. Mariella adds "Capri has united us, not only in matrimony, but also because of painting. We speak the same language. In Capri everything is art and food." Their collective exhibition called Ospiti e Capri can be seen at La Conchiglia bookstore in Anacapri until July 10th and in November in Milan at Mauro Brucoli.
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CAPRI
Lunch at Peter and Mariella # 2. Peter and Mariella Van Schalkwyk live six months of the year in Capri and six months of the year in Milan. They both paint. Mariella DeNatale as she signs her works, studied painting at the Brera Academy in Milan before becoming a fashion editor at Vogue Italia. I asked Peter to tell me about Mariella's art "First she signs the paper - MDN - and she paints like "pizza", does it in 5 minutes and she only paints in Capri. She is a "wild girl" and I would describe her style as post impressionist." Mariella adds " If I can't get a painting right in one hour I throw it out." A collective exhibition of their work can be seen until July 10th at the La Conchiglia bookstore in Anacapri and in November at Mauro Brucoli in Milan.
http://www.capritourism.com www.brera.beniculturali.it www.laconchigliacapri.com Mauro Brucoli - Via della Spiga 17 - Milan www.condenast.com
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CAPRI
Lunch at Peter and Mariella # 1. "This sophisticated, romantic island has a long tradition of parties, special occasions and dinners past and present, punctuated by lively intellectual debates, strong passions and fatal attractions. The tradition lives on to this day, through the people who are keeping alive the Art of Entertaining and preserving one of Capri's great attractions." writes Mariella Gardella in her book Ospiti a Capri (Idearte). The table prepared on one of the three terraces of their tiny weeny house looks just like a glossy picture from her book. It is not surprising that the table is so elegant, Mariella worked for many years at Vogue Italia, in fact, the cushions were bought during a fashion shot in Marrakech, the terracotta plates were made by Solimene in Vietri in the 1970's and the bamboo cutlery is from Gucci. And, as you can imagine, the menu was perfect and yes, we did have, besides other delicious food, an Insalata Caprese - tomato and mozzarella di buffala.
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Thursday, June 29, 2006
CAPRI
Shopping for local products#2 At the Profumeria Della Monica, just off the Piazzetta you can get these divine glitzy, bling bling bathroom accessories. They are designed by Grazia Della Monica and made on island, only for their two profumerie (the other one is in Anacapri). Faux diamond rubies, emeralds and sapphires adorn hair brushes, combs, mirrors, soap and toothbrush containers, etc. They make the best glamorous presents and you can't find them anywhere else.
www.capritourism.com dellamonicacapri@inwind.it
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CAPRI
Shopping for local products #1 Since Roman times, Capri has been famous for it's handmade sandals. It was the emperor Tiberio who first introduced them to the Island he chose as his residence and from there governed the know world. Since 1946, the chic-est ones can be found at the Canfora boutique. Where an amazing variety of original sandals with hundreds of styles and an infinity of colors greet you as you walk in. They are all handmade in leather and have fabulous applications of costume jewelry. Many famous customers have appreciated Canfora's creations, among these the unforgettable Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. More than once late at night Amedeo Canfora opened the shop just for the first lady, letting her choose her favorite sandals, he even made one exclusively for her called "K". Other members of the jet set who have shopped there are; Grace Kelly, Princess Margaret, Princess Caroline, Soraya, Maria Callas, Oona Chaplin, Sofia Loren, Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, Dawn Addams, Anita Ekberg, Naomi Campbell and many others.... If you can't go to Capri this summer, don't worry, you can order them on the internet......happy shopping.
www.canfora.com www.capritourism.com
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Wednesday, June 28, 2006
CAPRI
Here is the heart of Capri, La Piazzetta, the little square, it is the place where you come to see and be seen. Since the '50's it has been the favorite destination for film stars, such as Audrey Hepburn, Lana Turner, King Faruk, Birgit Bardot, Monica Bellucci, Isabella Rossellini and the most famous Vip associated with Capri, Jackie Kennedy Onassis. The piazzetta is where you will find the papparazzi ready to capture a famous face and a budding love affair. It was here that Capri pants and sandals were launched. There are four bars in the small square so watch out where you sit. Let me help you decide, the Caffe Caso is for tourists, the Piccolo Bar is for breakfast as they make the best croissants, the Gran Caffe Vuotto is for the international set and the Bar Tiberio, is the trendy place for people to be seen. At the Bar Tiberio the cashier will receive packages for you, take messages etc., great service and very useful. It is so much fun and a must to sit and sip an aperitivo in the piazzetta before dinner.
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CAPRI
On Susanne Thun's zebra skin ottoman, from L'Oro dei Farlocchi in Milan, is part of her straw hat collection. Susanne explains "I have collected hats over the years. They give me a certain feeling of holidays. Like sunglasses, I never leave the house without one. Hats are the best summer accessory."
www.capritourism.com www.lorodeifarlocchi.com
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photograph by Susanne Thun
CAPRI.
Here is Jackie, Susanne Thun's shadow and faithful Parson Jack Russell Terrier. She is just as beautiful as her mother and just as glamorous. She is cooling off inside, as it is too hot outside. Next to her is a Anya Hindmash stylish handbag with bamboo handles and a photo of Capri printed on the sides. Jackie loves Capri, just like another Jackie who used to come to the blue island in the '60's. Jackie Thun is very greedy and one day when we couldn't find her, the "naughty" dog was stuck inside the refrigerator! Jackie OH...........!
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photograph by Susanne Thun
Here I am at last on the Blue Island, as it is also known, and I can't stop looking at the view from the house of Susanne and Matteo Thun, where I'm staying. Every room and every terrace looks onto this famous Caprian landmark, the Faraglioni. The three rocks rise up, majestic and solitary, from the sea to the south-east of the island. The largest rock, is known as Stella (star) while the other two are named, Faraglione di mezzo (middle stack) and Scopolo (rock). The only inhabitants of the Faraglioni are a colony of blue lizards, an extremely rare variety of blue reptiles. Along with the spectacular marine Blue Grotto, the Faraglioni are the most sought after tourist attraction.
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Tuesday, June 27, 2006
NAPOLI
With an hour and a half delay, I have just landed in Naples and as I'm in a rush, I have just enough time to jump in a cab and go directly to the port to catch the Aliscafo to Capri. However, I have to stop for this photo opportunity. Napoli is the city of pizza especially, alla Napoletana or alla Margherita (named after the Queen of Italy), it's the city of Pulcinella, it's the city where 13 is a lucky number and the city where you"cuckold" your enemy and where the "horn" (which has to be given to you) is kept near by for good luck. Welcome to Napoli!
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VENEZIA - Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Bisazza's 50th Anniversary. In the true spirit of international stars, Marcel Wanders was the last famous designer to arrive, by motoscafo, at the 18th Century Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Other designers present to meet the international press and to celebrate the 50th anniversary of mosaic tile makers, Bisazza were Aldo Cibic, Isao Hosoe, Alessandro Mendini, Fabio Novembre and Patricia Urquiola.
http://www.bisazza.it/ http://www.guggenheim-venice.it/ www.patriciaurquiola.com www.cibicpartners.com www.ateliermendini.it www.novembre.it
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VENEZIA - Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Bisazza's 50th Anniversary. At the Bisazza dinner, on the roof terrace of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, overlooking the Gran Canal, Alberto Zontone loving looks on while his famous Spanish designer wife, Patricia Urquiola explains her design philosphy - head and heart - classic and informal - intimate and versatile, these are the secrets behind her new design for living.
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VENEZIA - Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
Bisazza's 50th Anniversary. Rossella Bisazza hosted the Bisazza, makers of high quality mosaic tiles, 50th Anniversary party at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice. She is sitting with German AD's, talented editor in chief, Margit J. Mayer under a Mario Mertz neon, entitled, Se La Forma Scompare La Sua Radice E' Eterna, 1982/89, in the garden on a throne assembled by Peggy herself from Byzantine stones. The International press and the Bisazza designers were treated to a private view of the Lucio Fontana exhibition by it's curator Luca Massimo Barbero and to drinks in the Sculpture Garden and then dinner on the roof terrace, with it's breath taking view of the Gran Canal.
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Friday, June 02, 2006
photograph courtesy Dr. Jack & Mr. Russell
JACK RUSSELL TERRIER MEETING- Italy
11th June - Save the Date. Jack Russell Terriers, are my favorite breed of dogs. I could not live without one, because; they are tough, curious, foolishly brave and fiercely loyal. While varying in type due to a broad genetic background, they are all born with an indominatable spirit that holds the hearts of those that love them. It is this spirit that is the true essence of the JRT.* In, Northern Italy, the Jack Russell Terrier meeting is being held this year on June 11th at the Centro Ippico Etrea in Borsano near Busto Arsizio. Ten years ago, Maria Carolina Zanetti and Andrea Crosta di Moncalvo heroically started Dr. Jack & Mr. Russell, a club for JRT's. The meeting, or shall we call it a party, is an excuse to spend a fun day in the country together with other Jacks and their owners. There will be a cake and a hat competition, as well as, the exciting JRT racing competition, called coursing in Italy. So, don't miss it.
* taken from the JRT Calendar - JasperPublications, Inc. - www.jack-russell.com
Monday, May 29, 2006
VENICE
Piazza San Marco - Torre Dell' Orologio. More than 30.000 people gathered in St Mark's Square to view the Torre dell'Orologio that was restored by the Swiss watchmaking manufacturer, Piaget and Brandolin Dottor Group. Piaget's president, Yves Piaget and Brandolin Dottor Group president, Pietro Dottor accompany the superstar actress, and patron to the event, Claudia Cardinale to the unveiling of the Clock Tower. Pietro Dottor said that "Restoration is in my DNA, it's a mission which I dedicate myself to. It produces so much adrenaline to keep me going all day." Asked about Venice, Miss Cardinale told me that " It was the first Italian town I came to from Tunisia when I was sixteen. I received a prize at the Venice Film Festival."
www.venetia.it www.brandolin.it www.piaget.com www.claudiacardinale.co.uk www.labiennale.org/en/cinema
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VENICE
MUSEO CORRER - Torre del Orologio. At the dinner, prior to the unveiling of the restored Clock Tower, in the Museo Correr, what were Venice Foundation, President, Franca Coin and patriarchal Curia to the Basilica of Saint Mark's, Mons. Antonio Meneguolo, demanding of neo elected vice premier and minister for culture, Francesco Rutelli? That he comes back to Venice to attend the concert of the Filarmonica Arturo Toscanini, directed by Lorin Maazel, in the Basilica on June 30th at nine pm. The proceeds will finance the restoration of The cupola of the Creation, inside San Marco. You can attend too. Contact, Venice Foundation, Venice +39 041 2774840 or email veniceinter@tin.it
www.basilicasanmarco.it www.museiciviciveneziani.it www.venicefoundation.orgwww.filarmonicatoscanini.it www.maestromaazel.com
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VENICE
Museo Correr - Torre dell' Orologio. After ten years, the Clock Tower in Piazza San Marco was restored, by the Brandolin Dottor Group, for the structure and by La Maison Piaget, for the clock mechanism. Originally built, just over five hundred years ago, by the Ranieri brothers, legend has it that later, their eyes were removed in order to keep them from repeating such a wonder. While the Clock Tower was being restored, the scaffolding was covered with gigantic photos of famous towers from all over the world, the brainchild of photographer, Oliviero Toscani. (See Contessanally 31 March, 2006). Toscani can wink and take photos at the same time. Anything for a bit of fun. He said that the idea came to him while he was imagining the surprise on the faces of herds of Japanese tourists in piazza, looking up and seeing, Big Ben or the Empire State Building. He described the project as "An exercise in communication. A "faulty" trompe l'oeil."
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Tuesday, May 23, 2006
LONDON
Selfridges. Save the Date! Should you be planning a trip to London, here, courtesy of Selfridges, is The English Social Calendar for the summer. Selfridges, is probably the best big London department store and has always had stunning, attention grabbing window promotions. The store carries a stylish mix of products that range from furniture to fashion, beauty to food and it is the ultimate place for new brands, experiences and ideas. Selfridges, is also credited with coining the famous phrase "The customer is always right" .
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LONDON
The Victoria and Albert Museum - The Biba Ball. Murray Blewett, is head of the design studio at Vivienne Westwood, he poses with his heroine, Barbara Hulanicki, creator of Biba. Murray collects original Biba clothes. His collection boasts more than 2500 authentic pieces. He remembers "Growing up as a Biba baby was the best gift my Mother could have given me. Visiting that wonderful magical Big Biba changed my life...The colors, cuts, glamour and slight sense of danger made me feel that just about anything was possible." Barbara, flew over especially from Miami, where she is based, to attend The Biba Ball. For the past few years she has been concentrating on interior design, mostly boutique hotels. Her latest project is designing the interiors of eighty cottages, hotel, spa, the lighting and the gardens on the Goldeneye Development in Jamaica. Goldeneye is renowned as the former home of James Bond novelist, Ian Fleming, who wrote all of the "007" thrillers there. The plantation, is being transformed by entertainment entrepreneur, Chris Blackwell into an elegant resort, thereby, becoming the ultimate Caribbean getaway for musicians, artists, entrepreneurs and stars. Can you guess the opening date? It's, 07 - 07 - 2007!
www.vam.ac.uk www.barbarahulanickidesign.com www.goldeneyedevelopment.com www.viviennewestwood.com www.ianfleming.org www.chrisblackwell.co.uk
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LONDON
The Victoria and Albert Museum - The Biba Ball. Society jeweler, Theo Fennell and his wife Louise, donated a beautiful diamond cross pendant for the Clic Sargent charity auction, for children with cancer at The Biba Ball. For his latest collection, due out this Autumn, Theo was inspired, while driving to work, by the four statues on the Holborn Viaduct "It's all about mythology; snakes, dragons, beasts, bats, devils and angels." He secretly revealed.
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Monday, May 22, 2006
LONDON
The Victoria and Albert Museum - The Biba Ball. Molly Parkin and Jan De Villeneuve are old friends of Barbara Hulanicki, the creator of Biba. Molly Parkin, founded Nova magazine in the 1960's then moved into broadcasting and became a TV personality and a trend setting celebrity. She has also written many books and she also paints. Her first autobiography, Moll (1993), charts a life lived to the limits. She is currently working on her second autobiography called Seven Deadly Sins, "It's a kiss and tell, names and all." she told me. The book will be launched next year at The Chelsea Arts Club with an exhibition of her land and city scapes. Model, Jan De Villeneuve, remembers the Biba days "Entering Biba in the 1970's was a phenomenal shopping experience - everything from fashion to furniture and even the most unique baby clothes, including six different shades of diapers. It was wonderful and unconventional, yet priced for the masses. There has been nothing quite like it ever since."
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LONDON
The Victoria and Albert Museum - The Biba Ball. Marie and Eddie Jordan of Formula one/Grand Prix fame are great philanthropists. They hosted The Biba Ball at the Victoria and Albert museum. The theme was recreating the Biba look and celebrating the creativity of Barbara Hulanicki, the creator of Biba, who was guest of honor. After cocktails in the magnificent John Madejski Garden, dinner was served in the spectacular Raphael Gallery, dancing followed in the 'Biba Nightclub' set up for the evening, in The Dome. The Ball raised funds to provide desperately needed accommodation for families and their children who are being treated for cancer in London hospitals. Eddie told me, that he had just finished recording five, one hour long programs, where he took eight criminal kids out of jail and gave them a project...guess what? How to build a car. You can watch them on the ORT Channel from September 5th. Bravo Eddie and Brava Marie.
www.clicsargent.org.uk www.vam.ac.uk www.barbarahulanickidesign.com
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LONDON
Sac Freres. Quintessentially English, Sac Freres, just off Bond Street, is a really new hand bag/luggage boutique. Situated in a former art gallery space, the shop is laid out like a museum, with all the bags displayed in glass cases with visual references to original costumes, pictures and text to explain the story behind each collection. What's more, these bags can only be bought there and nowhere else in the world. They are really special, because they are made from recycling luxury materials used for other purposes. The shocking pink bag in the window, from The Matador Collection, is made from algodon sedoso or silky cotton from which bull fighters capes are made from. Then, you have The Huntsman Collection, made from authentic scarlet Calvary wool twill. Or, The House of Lords Collection, the very same ruby red deep-buttoned upholstery leather which adorns the Upper House. For evening wear, The Vatican Collection offers black silk evening bags piped in cardinal red and bishop purple, these fabrics are supplied by the pope's tailor in Rome. The concept is the brainchild of James Mullen, the founder of Thomas Pink, who after selling the shirt company for an estimated forty-three million pounds to the LVMH group, was not content to watch fabulous fabrics and workmanship pigeonholed.
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LONDON
An elegant dinner party in Chelsea. While we were in London our host and hostess, Sebastian and Elisabeth Roberts gave a black tie, elegant, delicous and very simpatico dinner party. I loved the tartan trousers or trews as they are called in Scotland, worn with dinner jackets. It seems, that it was the Duke of Windsor to start this fashion in the 1930's. On the left of the photo, is the Right Hon. Ian Chant Sempill, he is wearing the 'window-seat' Forbes-Sempill Tartan. It's called "window-seat' because the original tartan was used to cover the window-seats in Druminnor Castle in the village of Rhynie, in Scotland. Over the years, the tartan had weathered, with the sun and the light shinning through, and that is how it got it's unusual name. On the right of the photo, is our host, Major General Sebastian Roberts, he is wearing the Dress Macleod of the Isles Tartan. In the middle, sitting between them, is Sambuca, he is making sure that they don't drink too much Gregoletto Prosecco! Spaghetti boutique owner, fashion and lace designer, Nadia La Valle, who always has an eye for fashion, commented "They look very Alexander McQueen!"
Contessanally says "Please note, that it is considered very bad luck to wear a tartan that does not belong to your family."
www.army.mod.uk/irishguards www.alexandermcqueen.com www.vallismareni.it Spaghetti- 32 Beauchamp Place - SW 3 - tel: 0044(0)207 584 0631
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Sunday, May 21, 2006
LONDON
The Wolseley Cafe and Restaurant. On entering The Wolseley, right on Piccadilly and next to The Ritz Hotel, one gets the impression of entering a noisy French brassiere. It is only when you settle down, and look more closely, that you can tell the various activities the space has accommodated over the years. From a motor car showroom for Wolseley cars in the 1920's - hence the name - to a bank and then a Chinese restaurant. The Wolseley is the hot spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week and it is very difficult to get a table, especially in the celebrity central section. The impressive surrounding, the arched windows and soaring marble columns all contribute to the great atmosphere of the place. The food is delicious as well. And, though I am on a diet, I could not resist one of my favorite puddings, Floating Islands, which are very difficult to come by on restaurant menus. I love this old fashioned nursery pudding. Thanks to Christie's Magazine, editor in chief, Meredith Etherington Smith for taking me there. She confessed "I hold most of my business meetings in here, even though my office is just around the corner."
The Wolseley, 160 Piccadilly, London W1 +44(0)20 7499 6996 www.theritzlondon.com www.christies.com
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Saturday, May 20, 2006
photograph by Rob Hawkins - courtesy The Rockwell
LONDON
The Rockwell. The Rockwell, is London's latest, four star, 'boutique" hotel. The forty rooms are individually decorated by Rosy Bartlett in, Contemporary British Modern style. The garden restaurant and bar, One-Eight-One, serves modern interpretations of traditional English food, perfect for alfresco dining, for guests and locals. At the opening party, rock royalty sibling, Jade Jagger was the guest of honor. In her own right Jade is a very talented designer. Besides, being creative director of Garrards, the jewellers, with three royal warrants, she is also the concept designer at Yoo. Philippe Starck and John Hitchcox have joined forces with Jade Jagger and her long term business partner Tom Bartlett, to create Jade Jagger for Yoo. Yoo is a designed-focused property development company, enhancing quality and adding value through design, branding and marketing expertise to development projects in the U.K. and around the world. Starck explains 'We want to offer democratic, high-fashion living."
LONDON
Transport # 3 - Scooter mania has swept the pavements of London. Every other young kid is on a folding aluminum micro scooter. And, they are usually falling over every few yards. Luckily, they are banned in the streets. Christian and Lucy's mother has already dropped off one child at Hill House School in Chelsea. This is the second drop off. "It is the quickest way to take three children of different ages to three buildings in three different streets." she told me.
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Friday, May 19, 2006
LONDON
Transport # 2 This is the story about Benjy the 'social' biker dog. He likes to go to parties in style, and until the Harley Davidson was stolen, which was his favorite mode of transport, he now travels on a 1980's Moto Guzzi or on a Vespa. He told me that "I like to ride BIKES. I like to ride bikes real fast... feel the wind in my ears...I also enjoy the luxury of being driven... chauffeur and all!...He's called Dave." Benjy is a cross between a Border Terrier and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, he is ten years old and he was found in the dogs home. His chauffeur, David Hart is the creative and managing director of Party Poker. Benjy, also has a website and an email address. "I have chosen a life of; ride bike, bark, bark, party, bark, eat, sleep...nice. And...if you want to contact me why don't you email me at benjy@gelatipertutti.com." he added. By the way, Benjy always bets on RED!
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LONDON
Michael Hoppen Gallery. The Jacques Henri Lartigue show at the Michael Hoppen Gallery is fantastic. The photos span from, a photo of Biaritz in 1905 to a photo of Carnaby Street in 1967. My favorite was a photo of Pablo Picasso, Cannes, August 1955, bare chested wearing a bowler hat. As I was arriving I caught, Kelly Hoppen on her way out of he brother's gallery, the British interior designer has created a unique style that captures the spirit of the east while incorporating the best of Western design. Her books include Table Chic, Close Up and the highly influential title East Meets West. Her latest book, Kelly Hoppen Style, came out in 2004. She is currently working on Concept to Reality due out in 2007. "It is about visualizing how we live in space. It's about zoning. If you get that right, you live well. Too many people are worried about how it looks instead of being worried about how it 'lives'." She told me.
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LONDON
Transport # 1 - Just to give you a sense of place. We are in London and what could be more English than a red double decker bus and a British racing green Mini? The Mini isn't made any more! Let's hope that the London bus will not be discontinued, as well...with globalization! The Mini is sponsoring rock and football. On the side the 182 = the group Blink 182. On the "bumper" The Clash's London Calling album, voted by Rolling Stone Magazine as the greatest record of the '80's. The Album has been updated to two Cds, plus, DVD set, to mark it's 25th anniversary. And, with the World Cup just around the corner, on the back window, what better way to show support than to "scream" COME ON ENGLAND?
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Friday, May 05, 2006
VENEZIA - PALAZZO GRASSI - highlights from the opening
"Where Are We Going?" a selection from the Francois Pinault Collection. And all in all, Francois Pinault was a great success in Venice. His collection represents a personal odyssey, a passionate commitment and a profound realization that art enables an expanded perception of the world and of our being. Christie’s head in Venice, Contessa Bianca Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga, summed it up best, saying she would like to have T-shirts printed with the words “Merci M. Pinault!”
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VENEZIA - PALAZZO GRASSI - highlights from the opening
"Where Are We Going?" a selection from the Francois Pinault Collection. Francois-Henri Pinault, son of the museum’s founder, arrived at the opening with the beautiful actress Salma Hayek. “I was brought up surrounded by art,” he said. “My favorite artists are Jean Rebeyrolle and Jeff Koons. But I also love boxing and collecting watches.”
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VENEZIA - PALAZZO GRASSI - highlights from the opening
"Where Are We Going?" a selection from the Francois Pinault Collection. Gucci Group star fashion designer, Stella McCartney arrived with her husband, Alasdhair Willis of the graphic design team MadeThought. Willis, a well-known designer was awarded the job of designing the new logo for Palazzo Grassi. His solution reflects Tadao Ando's approach to Palazzo Grassi, manipulating contrasts and juxtaposing the traditional and the contemporary.
www.palazzograssi.it www.stellamccartney.com www.madethought.com www.andotadao.org www.guccigroup.com
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Thursday, May 04, 2006
VENEZIA - PALAZZO GRASSI - highlights from the opening
"Where Are We Going?" a selection from the Francois Pinault Collection. French, film director, Claude Lelouch and his beautiful wife Francesca Martinez. lelouch's latest film is entitled"Le bonheur c'est encore mieux que la vie" they looked very glamorous and happy after seeing the exhibition.
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