Valentino Presents an Exclusive Exhibition in Qatar Celebrating the Legacy of the Maison

As part of the ongoing cultural movement Qatar Creates in association with Qatar Museums, Maison Valentino has revealed its first major exhibition in the Middle East; “Forever Valentino”.

 

This major perspective exhibition that pays homage to its founder Valentino Garavani, the Maison’s home of Rome and its still-unfolding heritage of Haute Couture excellence. This exclusive retrospective is taking place at M7, the design and innovation hub located in Msheireb Downtown Doha, and will continue until 1 April 2023.

 

 

The exhibition explores Valentino’s Haute Couture codes and offers a stunning theatrical experience through the journey of the Maison. For the opening night, Artistic Director Pierpaolo Piccioli opened the exhibition alongside Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa. Her Excellency said: “With the world’s eyes on Doha as we launch into our exciting schedule of events surrounding the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, I am proud that we are welcoming the public to an exhibition that is as imaginative, glamorous, and elegant as the subject itself: the creations of Maison Valentino. I express my warmest thanks to everyone who collaborated with us to realize this tribute to a great artistic vision, and I look forward to continuing to share extraordinary explorations of the best of fashion and design.”

 

 

The opening of Forever Valentino coincides with the 90th birthday of Valentino Garavani and the reveal of the Valentino Autumn/Winter 2022 Haute Couture collection “The Beginning” which took place in Rome earlier this year. The exhibition is conceived as a vast panoramic view of the history of the Maison, embedded in scenography evoking the Eternal City, which has been Valentino’s home since its foundation in 1959. It builds a dream-like image of the city guiding viewers in and out of palazzos, squares, and courtyards, while simultaneously allowing exclusive access to secluded, intimate spaces such as the celebrated Valentino Ateliers, the storied archives of the Maison, and the fitting salons in the fabled headquarters of Piazza Mignanelli.

 

FOREVER VALENTINO – PIERPAOLO PICCIOLI

 

Throughout a reconstruction of some of Rome’s iconic locations, visitors will find Valentino’s creations, displayed in dialogue with many of the sources of inspiration that have stirred up the creativity of both the founder Valentino Garavani and his successor Pierpaolo Piccioli.

 

Forever Valentino will feature over 200 Valentino Haute Couture pieces and pret-à-porter outfits and accessories presented on mannequins and displayed in an immersive scenography. The craftsmanship and beauty of these pieces is woven throughout the journey of the house and the city of Rome.

 

 

Highlight pieces on display include rarely seen ensembles designed for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy and, more recently, Zendaya, along with pieces from the private collection of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, a long-standing client of Valentino.

 

“Forever Valentino” is curated by Massimiliano Gioni, Artistic Director of the New Museum New York, and fashion critic and author Alexander Fury, working closely with Valentino Creative Director, Pierpaolo Piccioli. Massimiliano Gioni said of the showcase; “working on a fashion exhibition is an absolute exception for me and I couldn’t think of a better opportunity than presenting the work of Maison Valentino and collaborating with Pierpaolo Piccioli, Alexander Fury and the many great teams that have made this exhibition possible. Working in Doha is always very special: it’s a place where dreams of artists come alive and working on this show has really been somewhat of a dream, or perhaps a ‘capriccio’, a flight of fantasy that only in Doha could become a reality.”

 

 

Alexander Fury added: “Maison Valentino is one of the world’s most important fashion houses, led today by Pierpaolo Piccioli, undoubtedly one of the great designers of our time. It has been an honour and privilege to work alongside Massimiliano Gioni, Pierpaolo and the whole Maison Valentino team on this exhibition – on the awe-inspiring and slightly incredible task of bringing Rome to Doha, transporting a context along with Valentino’s creations. The legacy of Valentino Garavani – and therefore the meaning of Valentino – is to celebrate beauty, in all its incarnations, from every walk of life and every period of time. That noble quest, that ceaseless search for and celebration of beauty to better the world is, for me, Forever Valentino.”

 

Visitors can view the exhibition at Gallery 1 and 2, M7, in Msheireb Downtown Doha, from 28 October 2022 to 1 April 2023. Tickets can be purchased through the Qatar Creates website, with special access and discounts for One Pass holders: www.qacreates.com.

 

Why Modern Farmhouse is the Latest Interior Trend to Try

 

Many of us have dreamt of living in a traditional farmhouse with a modern twist. And while farmhouses are far and few between here in the UAE, you can still create your own twist on the trend wherever you live.

 

Elements of modern farmhouse interior design have taken over the feeds of social platforms and can be seen incorporated into homes and commercial spaces across the UAE with its unique blend of rustic and modern furniture and design.

 

 

Interiors brand Ethan Allen believes today’s take on modern farmhouse decorating is rooted in rustic country charm peppered with warm minimalism and industrial elements somewhat similar to Scandinavian interior design. The aesthetic boasts a cozy, welcoming feel of a farmhouse with the clean, uncluttered look of modern design, and elements include neutral colour palettes, metals and woods, and a combination of textures.

 

Ethan Allen’s vast collection of home furnishings and decor is the perfect match for those looking to achieve this look, from a selection of couches, coffee tables, consoles, beds, lamps, rugs and more.

 

 

To create a more personalised experience, some items can be customised, from distressing the wood to re-upholstering with a unique selection of fabrics to adding details like nailheads and tufting.

 

Scroll down to see some of Ethan Allen’s Farmhouse-inspired furniture and accessories.

 

Cassian Dining Bench

 

Carlen Sofa

Copper Rustic Dining Table

 

Chrystiane Armchair

 

Lincoln Poster Bed

 

Leeka Turned Blauster Table Lamp

 

 

Messika Lights Up the Burj Khalifa to Celebrate 10 Years in the UAE

Messika is celebrating ten years since the brand first arrived in the UAE. To mark the occasion the Parisian jeweller lit up the iconic Burj Khalifa with an alluring video featuring Kendall Jenner, the face of Messika’s 2022 campaign.

 

The occasion paid tribute to Downtown Dubai by Emaar, the iconic neighbourhood where the Maison was first introduced to the UAE 10 years ago. Valérie Messika who was in town for the occasion, pushed the activation button for the exclusive illumination in the presence of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, the brand’s long-term local partner, to usher in an exciting new decade for the brand in the UAE.

 

 

As well as the celebration Messika unveiled its newest flagship store at the Dubai Mall. Located in the Grand Atrium, the store new store covers 70 square metres and features high ceilings curved graphic lines, white marble and highlights of yellow gold metal detailing. The design channels Messika’s inherent penchant for breaking free from traditional jewellery codes to rewrite the essence of timeless luxury, with uncompromising savoir-faire.

 

 

The boutique’s grand room plays host to the Maison’s signature collections, while a private Bridal & High Jewelry Room is the perfect destination for brides to be to find something special for the big day. A private VIP room completes the immersive experience, as guests try on the brand’s latest collections in privacy.

 

 

The Maison will present an extraordinary curation of high jewellery pieces, selected especially for the opening of the new boutique as well as the exclusive UAE 50 Lucky Move editions, developed in collaboration with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons in tribute to the UAE’s golden jubilee.

Guests Celebrate With Miu Miu at the 2022 Fashion Trust Arabia Prize

Guests at the 2022  Fashion Trust Arabia Prize awards ceremony celebrated in style as Miu Miu provided entertainment in the form of a musical performance by FKA Twigs.

 

After the main event an exclusive after party was hosted by Miu Miu with celebrity and VIP guests in attendance. The after party featured DJ sets from Mimi Xu and Helena Star.

 

A number of regional and international guests were in attendance at the event which celebrated the best of emerging fashion talent in the region and beyond.

 

See some of the best dressed guests below:

 

Dana Hourani at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Gaia Repossi at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Karolina Kurkova at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Maya Jama at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Mimi Xu at Miu Miu Club presents the Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Mohammed Al Turki at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Olivia Culpo at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Olivier Rousteing at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Poppy Delevingne at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Bryanboy at Miu Miu Club Presents The Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After-Party

 

Fashion Trust Arabia Announces The Winners of the 2022 FTA Prize

The annual Fashion Trust Arabia Prize took place in Doha, Qatar at the National Museum on 26th October 2022.

 

The annual event recognises and awards emerging and talented designers from across the region and internationally with a huge prize in the form of financial support and mentorship for the winning designers.

 

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Honorary Chair of Fashion Trust Arabia, and Jodie Turner-Smith

 

The awards were held in the presence of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Honorary Chair of Fashion Trust Arabia, as well as Founder Tania Fares who welcomed guests alongside Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums and Co-Chair of FTA.

 

Tania Fares at FTA Gala

 

Winners were selected from various categories including Ready-to-Wear, Eveningwear, Accessories (Shoes & Handbags) and Jewellery, as well as the Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award and Guest Country Award, which this year was in partnership with Turkey.

 

Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani at the FTA Awards Gala

 

The event culminated in an annual showcase of the designer’s work in Doha at the M7 culture space with a Judging Day, as well as the final awards ceremony which attracted international designers, VIPs, celebrities, journalists and more. The winners were selected by the FTA Jury, a prestigious group of industry heavyweights, during today’s Judging Day at the M7 culture space in Doha.

 

Kazna Asker at FTA Gala

 

This year’s Jury included fashion designers, stylists, and journalists. Some of the notable names were: Pierpaolo Piccioli Creative Director of Valentino, Olivier Rousteing Creative Director of Balmain, Remo Ruffini CEO of Moncler, Ruba Abu-Nimah Creative Director of Tiffany & Co., Fashion Designer Zuhair Murad, Laura Kim & Fernando Garcia Creative Directors Oscar De La Renta and Monse, Gherardo Felloni, Creative Director Roger Vivier, Guram Gvasali CEO Vetements, Iris Van Herpen, Fashion Designer and many more.

 

Fatma Mostafa at FTA Gala

 

The six winners were selected from a group of finalists, with the announcements made and awards presented with a glamourous ceremony on the evening of 26th October at the National Museum of Qatar.

 

The full list of winners are:

 

Ready-to-Wear designer: Siham and Sarah Albinali – Lurline

 

Jewellery designer: Fatma Mostafa

Accessories designer: Eilaf Osman

Eveningwear designer: Artsi Ifrach – Maison ARTC

Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award: Kazna Asker

Guest Country Award Türkiye: Burç Akyol

 

Each winner will receive financial support of up to $200,000, and benefit from an extensive mentorship program with key FTA partners. This includes a special partnership with retailer MATCHESFASHION, which will be stocking exclusively on its website all FTA 2022 winners, in addition to providing business mentorship.

 

Huda Kattan at FTA Gala

 

Additionally, The Entrepreneur of the Year Award was given to Huda Kattan and The lifetime Achievement Award was given to Valentino Garavani and accepted by Giancarlo Giammetti.

 

During the ceremony, FTA and Hamad International Airport also announced Zulfa Al Thani as the winning designer of their joint competition. That will design the new uniform of the customer-facing airport staff that will be introduced in 2023.

 

 

See more at www.fashiontrustarabia.com

 

Celebrity Red Carpet Moments From the 2022 Fashion Trust Arabia Awards

The 2022 edition of Fashion Trust Arabia took place at the National Museum of Qatar on 26th October 2022.

 

 

Developed under the patronage of HH Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser who sits as honorary chair, with co-chairs HE Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani and Tania Fares. This year’s attendees included Bella Hadid, Naomi Campbell, Halima, Janet Jackson and more. Scroll down to see some of the best dressed from the night. More to be added soon..

 

Halima

 

Bella Hadid

 

Zuhair Murad and Jasmine Tookes at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Tara Emad at FTA Gala

 

Sabrina Elba at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Paula Abdul and Bella Hadid at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Ozwald Boateng at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Olivier Rousteing at FTA Gala

 

Olivia Culpo at FTA Gala

 

Mohamed Hadid; Bella Hadid at FTA Gala

 

Maya Jama and Neelam Gill at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Mary Alice Malone at FTA Gala

 

Lorraine Schwartz at FTA Gala

 

Karolina Kurkova at FTA Gala

 

Jourdan Dunn and Neelam Gill at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Janet Jackson at FTA Gala

 

Huda Kattan at FTA Gala

 

Gherardo Felloni and Gianluca Longo at the FTA Awards Gala

 

 

Gaia Repossi at FTA Gala

 

Farida Khelfa at FTA Gala

 

Ed Westwick at FTA Gala

 

Dana Hourani at FTA Gala

 

Caroline Scheufele at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Caroline Scheufele and Poppy Delevingne at the FTA Awards Gala

 

Carine Roitfeld at FTA Gala

Zuma Arrives in Doha, Qatar To Mark the FIFA World Cup 2022

One of Dubai’s favourite dining destinations is popping up in Doha bringing its contemporary Japanese cuisine and signature informal izakaya dining concept to Qatar for a limited time in line with the FIFA World Cup 2022.

 

The brand’s latest location will open its doors from November 2022 until March 2023 and will feature the signature sushi counter, robata grill, lounge and bar, in addition to a stunning terrace and private dining room, overlooking the Qatari Sea.

 

Freshly seared wagyu sirloin tataki with black truffle ponzu

 

Guests will be able to enjoy the full selection of Zuma’s award-winning, world-class signature dishes including Spicy Beef Tenderloin with Sesame; Black Cod marinated in Miso; and Grilled Seabass with Chilli and Ginger, as well as a delicious selection of appetisers, desserts and an innovative range of drinks designed perfectly to complement the dishes.

 

Rainer Becker, Creator and Co-Founder of Zuma, said: “We are extremely excited to be launching our pop-up in Doha to showcase Zuma in Qatar in the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup 2022. Al Maha Island will be a hub of activity during this time and the culinary scene will be unrivalled, and we are very proud to be a part of the euphoria.”

“We look forward to welcoming Qatari residents and tourists from across the globe to experience Zuma and enjoy a dynamic dining experience throughout the winter season,” he added.

 

Grilled Chilean seabass with green chilli, ginger dressing

 

In partnership with one of the biggest companies in the hospitality and food services chain in Qatar, Aura Group, the opening of the location on Al Maha Island will further widen the range of dining options available to the teeming tourists and visitors expected in Qatar during and after the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup 2022.

 

For more information and reservations, please visit zumarestaurant.com/book

 

Valentino Reveals Its First Monogram

Valentino has unveiled the new Valentino Toile Iconographe, a bold monogram that celebrates the logo trend of today.

 

The Valentino VLogo is repeated across a canvas and applied to a series of ready-to-wear pieces and accessories as part of the brand’s Surfaces PRE SS23 collection which takes inspiration from the Maison’s archives and aesthetic codes and offers a fresh new take on the classic designs.

 

 

The continuous and reticular logo tattoos reality with a radical and inclusive act of poetry in Steven Meisel’s photographs. The white background is the Toile of one of the great contemporary photographers, himself an icon and iconic, who focuses the gaze on the essential.

 

 

An eye-catching campaign features Kristen McMenamy who is immersed in Valentino Toile Iconographe, as well as a selection of models who appear in a series of images and videos.

See more at https://www.valentino.com/experience/toile-iconographe

 

 

Chopard Reveals a New Qatar Edition of Its Happy Sport Watch

Chopard has unveiled two special edition pieces in its Happy Sport watch collection. The Qatar edition limited collection celebrates the upcoming 2022 World Cup which takes place in Qatar next month.

 

The new watch offers a modern sporty play on elegance and the pieces mimic the image of a football field with a rich green tone. The special piece consists of a steel and ethical 18-carat rose gold design with a finely-grained 36mm green dial and matching calf leather strap.

Five dancing diamonds and a football in ethical rose gold decorate and twirl around the dial, representing the energy and excitement of the upcoming event. They are placed between two sapphire crystals, on a frosted green dial featuring a texture as soft as freshly mown grass. The watch will be limited to just 25 pieces.

 

The collection also features an ethical 18-carat rose gold pendant which features the same dancing football and three other dancing diamonds in its centre. This will also be limited to 25 pieces.

Discover the UAE’s New Homegrown Jewellery Brand

A new UAE-born, premium, fine jewellery brand has launched in the region.

 

Founded by Ibrahim Lamrini and Rita Chraibi, Maveroc has just dropped six original edgy and colourful jewellery collections that can be stacked, flipped, mixed and matched to suit every mood.

 

For an extra special touch, some of the pieces in the collections feature sophisticated mechanisms that reveal – or hide – secret messages.

 

The jewellery is designed by Co-Founder and Creative Director Rita Chraibi and crafted by highly-skilled artisan jewellers using both traditional and modern techniques and processes. All of the pieces feature 18-carat gold, high-quality diamonds, AAA-graded precious stones and in some pieces, a rainbow of semi-precious stones.

 

 

“Jewellery is a powerful medium for self-expression; we design and create with the intention to encourage, inspire and celebrate individuality. Our jewellery designs allow people to choose a piece that resonates with their story.” Said, Co-Founder Rita Chraibi.

 

Ibrahim Lamrini and Rita Chraibi, who previously worked as executives at Goldman Sachs and Google respectively, aim to disrupt the industry status quo by bringing a fresh perspective to the fine jewellery world.

 

 

“We are a digital-first jewellery brand. The convenience of an e-commerce platform means we can be more responsive, really elevate the customer experience and address consumer behaviours that have significantly evolved over the last few years. We currently deliver in 14 markets and see tremendous growth opportunities across the GCC and beyond.” Ibrahim Lamrini explains.

 

Maveroc is now available to shop at maveroc.com and at Kulture House from October 22nd to November 22nd.

Top 3 tips for investing in watches in 2022

The world of watch collecting has become vastly different than it was ten years ago. Some pieces have become so unaffordable that it is almost impossible to find a reasonably priced stainless steel Rolex sports watch. In fact, a Patek Phillippe Nautilus or Audemars Piguet Royal Oak will cost you as much as a house. Although the steep rise in prices for these iconic pieces has halted over the past couple of months, the current market prices are still sky-high.

 

With this in mind, luxury watch experts at Chrono24 discuss three cheaper ways to start investing in watches that may increase in value over time. Each tip comes with suggestions of watch models to start your collection

 

1. Start collecting tomorrow’s watch icons

One surefire way to make money on a watch investment is to find a Rolex that has gone up in price but is still obtainable to your budget. Everyone knows that Rolex is hot property. Many hidden gems of the brand have increased in price and are still attainable to a new collector. A perfect example of this is the Rolex Submariner ref. 14060. While prices for this watch have certainly risen, you still might be able to find one at around the $10,000 mark. If found at this price point the watch will hold its value at the very least and will most likely increase in value. Keep an eye out for Rolex models that sit between the latest generations and iconic vintage pieces.

 

Another practical approach to this tip is strategically investing in a modern version of a past classic. A great example of this is the Omega Seamaster Ploprof. The original version was released in 1970 and has become one of the industry’s most iconic diving watches. In 2009 a modern version of the classic was released, the Omega Seamaster Professional Ploprof 1200M, a new and improved reissue. Although the newer watch’s design, movement, materials, and overall quality beat the original, the piece was discontinued in 2019. The price for this piece will continue to increase as watch enthusiasts worldwide recognize the quality.

 

2. Start collecting watches from independent brands

A growing appreciation for small independent watch brands has grown recently. Whether it’s a niche high-end brand that is hot property, or a small affordable brand that has conquered the hearts of watch enthusiasts, small brands are popular across the board. The key to their success is that people are always looking for the latest and greatest thing out there. A watch offers the perfect way to distinguish yourself from the masses of people who wear established brands. Smaller brands almost always produce watches in small or limited numbers, so you always buy something exclusive. If your exclusive watch becomes sought-after, you are potentially sitting on a significant investment. Good examples of some smaller independent high-end brands that have gained popularity include F.P. Journe, Laurent Ferrier, Czapek Genève, and H. Moser & Cie. All of these brands produce incredible haute horlogerie timepieces that stand out in terms of watchmaking craftsmanship, design, materials, and finishing. Models like the F.P. Journe Elegante and the Czapek Antarctiquehave had massive price rises due to increased popularity.

 

If you are looking for something slightly more affordable, there are many new, young and exciting brands to keep an eye on. Laventure and MING are two great brands with a price bracket of up to $5,000.

 

 

3. Start collecting full gold or steel and gold watches

The final tip for collecting watches and getting a return on your investment is to purchase gold or two-tone steel and gold watches. Rolex’s iconic vintage full gold Day-Date models have been going for much less money than their stainless-steel sports counterparts. Prices for the gold Rolex Day-date are currently around $21,000 for some vintage and neo-vintage pieces. Although this model has recently increased prices, it is nowhere near as expensive as the stainless-steel Rolex models.

There has also been a rise in the popularity of the two-tone timepieces. The Rolex Datejust, Rolex GMT-Master Root Beer and the Tissot two-toned version of their popular PRX model have all seen a recent appreciation.

 

A spokesperson from Chrono24  commented:

“When it comes to collecting and making money from watches, it takes time. There is no such thing as a quick win in the world of watches, so search for those unique timepieces and find out what makes them so special. When you enjoy wearing and investing in watches, it makes the process all the more enjoyable.”

 

Research conducted by https://www.chrono24.com/.

 

 

PAT McGRATH LABS Expands Across the Middle East

Renowned British make-up artist Pat McGrath is expanding her makeup line PAT McGRATH LABS across the Middle East.

 

Fans of the brand will soon get to experience her line in Sephora stores throughout Qatar, KSA, the UAE and Kuwait.

 

Known for their highly pigmented formulas, McGrath’s products feature high-performance cosmetics, offering some of beauty’s most exciting eyeshadow palettes, mascaras, lipsticks, and foundation, amongst many other products.

 

 

The celebrated makeup artist is known for bringing her audience joy through her vast world of bold colour and expression.

 

A key concept behind the brand is that it’s a laboratory, with an aim to introduce the world to the many textures and pigments she uses in her makeup products.

 

 

“This is the golden age of makeup. PAT McGRATH LABS is my Golden Revolution. The entire planet is just as cosmetics obsessed as I’ve always been. Makeup is a movement. Makeup is mesmerizing. Makeup is major. Mantra-esque, three words have repeated over and over in my mind ever since I was young. Obsession. Inspiration. Addiction. Those words became my guiding principles, my manifesto as I brought this brand to life. I wanted to capture, in a quartet of exquisite palettes, 50 legendary lipsticks, a divine dozen eyeliners and five fetish-worthy lip pencils, The Power of Transformation, The Power of Beauty;  The Power of Makeup.” Said Pat McGrath, CEO & Founder of PAT McGRATH LABS.

 

 

PAT McGRATH LABS will be present exclusively at Sephora across the Middle East in the following stores:

UAE
Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai | Galleria, Abu Dhabi

KSA
Red Sea, Jeddah | Nakheel, Riyadh | Dhahran 2 Mall, Khobar

KUWAIT
Avenues 2, Kuwait City | Al Kout

QATAR
Doha Festival City

Prada Mode Comes To Dubai With an Exclusive Installation by Damien Hirst

Prada’s unique art experience Prada Mode is coming to Dubai this November and will feature an exclusive art installation cum restaurant by artist Damien Hirst.

 

A travelling social club with a focus on contemporary culture, Prada Mode provides members with a unique art experience along with music, dining, and conversations.

 

The Dubai edition of Prada Mode will mark the eighth installation in the project which has already popped up in cities including New York, London, Moscow and Hong Kong.

 

 

When it arrives in the Middle East Prada Mode will feature a new edition of Pharmacy by Damien Hirst. Hirst created the Pharmacy restaurant in Notting Hill, London in 1998, six years after the inaugural installation of the same name at the Cohen Gallery in New York. It was conceived as a fully functioning restaurant and bar in an installation of Hirst’s floor-to-ceiling medicine cabinets and specially made butterfly paintings. Hirst designed furniture, architectural details such as a huge molecular model in its window, light boxes, and a wallpaper design taken from a catalogue of prescription medicine. It is fitting for this to be made especially for Prada Mode: the artist’s long-time friend Miuccia Prada designed the staff uniforms for the original restaurant.

 

Hirst will transform a space at the landmark ICD Brookfield Place, in Dubai’s DIFC area.“I’m thrilled and honoured to be invited by Miuccia Prada to recreate Pharmacy for Prada Mode in Dubai after our successful collaboration in Moscow,” said Hirst. “I’m working really hard with a complicated but beautiful space, ICD Brookfield Place, to create harmony between the inside and outside of the new building. Once again, Prada has found a space that will provide the perfect place for it. I’m so excited to be doing this! I’ve always thought great restaurants can be seen as art, and art without the evidence as we always remember great meals on great evenings with great people in great places and in this way Pharmacy is definitely a kinetic artwork, that works best filled with people and art existing and living and breathing and eating and drinking and enjoying themselves as one.”

 

Prada Mode New York

 

Prada Mode will take place on November 9 and 10. Early access to the club will be available for members to participate in morning and afternoon panels and discussions as well as nightly events, sampling speciality cocktails and dining throughout.

 

Hublot Reveals an Exclusive Timepiece and Campaign For the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar

As the Official Timekeeper of the FIFA World Cup 2022™ Hublot has revealed a new exclusive connected watch that will keep you up to date with every game.

 

The Big Bang e FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ connected watch is equipped with special technology bringing you every moment of each game through a dedicated football app.

 

Hublot has been the Official Timekeeper of the FIFA World Cup for the 4th consecutive edition and will time all 64 games at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, including the final in the Lusail Stadium in Doha on December 18.

 

 

The 129 official referees will also be timing the game with the new Big Bang e FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM on their wrists.

 

“We’ve waited four years – the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM is coming! Hublot has always been ‘unique, first, different’, becoming the first Fine Watchmaking brand in football in 2006.” Said Ricardo Guadalupe, Hublot CEO.

 

“Today, Hublot is the first name in football timekeeping. For this year’s tournament, we wanted to do something that expresses our belief in a free, diverse and unified world in a new and memorable way. Football is the world’s game and has a unique power to carry a message of hope to every corner of the Earth, connecting us and showcasing everything that brings us together. Passion, fairness, family.” He continued.

 

Hublot Loves Football – José Mourinho – The most important victory is the next one

 

The Big Bang e FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM is a Gen3 connected watch in Hublot’s collection and is the highest-performing Big Bang e to date. With an even larger and improved high-definition screen, every glorious moment of the game will be captured by the new designed dedicated football app.

 

Ahead of each match, the watch will be in countdown mode, keeping track of the days and minutes before each game. Then, with 15 minutes to go before each match, the watch will deliver team line-ups and player profiles, so the wearer can feast on the details from the comfort of their wrist.

 

As each game kicks off the watch will automatically enter “match mode” and activate “timeline”, a feature created exclusively for this watch that will help fans capture the most memorable and most important moments in football.

 

Hublot Loves Football – Luis Figo with his dream football designed by Mira Mikati

 

The launch is accompanied by the Hublot Loves Football campaign featuring global superstars, players, managers and other friends of the brand. Hublot will be there every step of the way throughout the tournament, bringing its watch owners even closer to the action.

 

“We’re so proud to be working with Mira Mikati and our Hublot Ambassadors and Friends of the Brand to tell this story. We’re also thrilled to be the Official Timekeeper of the FIFA World CupTM for a fourth time, going back to the South Africa tournament of 2010. We are so excited for this year’s festival of football to begin and wish every participating team the very best of luck. Hublot Loves Football!” Said Ricardo Guadalupe, Hublot CEO.

 

The Big Bang e FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will be limited to 1,000 pieces.

 

Dior Reveals Its Cruise 2023 Campaign

 

Dior has revealed its 2023 Cruise campaign images, featuring the Seville-inspired collection designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri.

 

Shot in some of the city’s historic locations, the images capture the beauty of the location.

 

Dior Cruise 2023 Campaign © Laura Sciacovelli

 

The images were taken by photographer Laura Sciacovelli who captures the light and shadow between the Sevillian palaces as she creates a dialogue between the excellence of Dior’s ateliers and the wealth of Spanish craftsmanship.

 

Invoking the essence of flamenco through the figure of La Capitana – the dancer Carmen Amaya –, the outfits transcend masculine and feminine dress codes.

 

Dior Cruise 2023 Campaign © Laura Sciacovelli

 

Spats, capes and boleros, along with the iconic Saddle, punctuate looks with an extra touch of elegance and equestrian grace. Reinvented, the mantilla, leather gloves and fan celebrate the traditional Andalusian spirit, combined with the perpetual modernity of Dior style.

 

A fascinating journey, fusing exceptional arts and crafts, sealing more than ever the precious ties that unite the world’s cultures.

 

Miu Miu Will Host a Star-Studded After Party at This Year’s Fashion Trust Arabia

On the occasion of Qatar Creates which kicks off later this month, Miu Miu will present the official Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 After Party.

 

The Awards ceremony will feature a headline music performer presented by Miu Miu who is yet to be revealed.

 

Through this partnership, Miu Miu aims to celebrate its growing community in the Middle East, and to express its ambition to further expand its presence in the Gulf region.

 

With that in mind, and most recently in July, Miu Mu opened a store in Place Vendome (Doha). The space is on one level with a total area of about 390 gross square meters and houses Miu Miu’s complete collections.

 

Miu Miu Club which will kick off after the Fashion Trust Arabia Awards on 26th October will welcome a list of international and regional talents and personalities from the worlds of fashion and culture.

 

Fashion Trust Arabia is a non-profit organization that nurtures young talent and provides financial and business support as well as international recognition to the dynamic fashion designers in the Middle East region.

 

Launched in September 2018 under the patronage of HH Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser as honorary chair and co-chairs HE Sheikha Al-Mayassa, Hamad Al-Thani and Tania Fares.

 

Fashion Trust Arabia’s 2022 Judging Panel Has Been Revealed

This year’s edition of the Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA)  FTA Awards will take place later this month and its panel of judges has been revealed ahead of the annual event.

 

The FTA Jury will be responsible for the selection of five winning designers across five womenswear-focused categories: Evening Wear, Ready-to-Wear, Accessories (Shoes/Bags), and Jewelry (Fine & Fashion Jewelry), and the Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award (Arab Fashion Design Graduate).

 

Iris Van Herpen

 

This year also includes a special award; the Guest Country Award, recognizing the strongest emerging Turkish Designer, in partnership with the Istanbul Apparel Exporters Association.

 

Zuhair Murad

 

Twenty-four finalists have been shortlisted this year, from over a thousand applications from across the MENA region by FTA Advisory Board members including industry heavyweights such as Adam Baidawi, Bryan Boy, Edgardo Osorio, Erdem Moragliou, Gaia Repossi, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, Imruh Asha, Mary Alice Malone, Olivier Theyskens, Pierre M’Pele, Piergiorgio Del Moro, Tiffany Godoy, Alex Fury, Carmen Busquets, Fabio Piras, Nina Garcia, Patti Wilson, Sarah Andelman, Sara Maino, Saif Mahdhi, Sofia Guellaty and Wayman & Micah.

 

Advisory Board and Jury members will be present in Doha, Qatar to meet the twenty-four finalists during their collection showcase on 26th of October 2022.

 

Olivier Rousteing

 

The Jury will deliberate and announce the winners on the same evening, during the FTA 2022 Awards Ceremony at the National Museum of Qatar, under the patronage and presence of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser.

 

The FTA 2022 winners will receive a financial prize and a personalized one-year mentoring program delivered by FTA’s retail partners and a global network of industry professionals, covering a variety of topics relevant to fashion businesses.

 

MATCHESFASHION will mentor the winners and carry their collections on their e-commerce platform. Harrods will mentor the evening-wear category winner and carry their collection in-store. Bicester Village will offer a bespoke mentorship to each winner with a tailored program. Maison De Mode will offer winners a mentorship on sustainability and Maison Pyramide will provide winners with showroom representation during Paris Fashion Week as well as PR consultancy.

 

Lorraine Schwartz

This year FTA is proud to receive the support of its distinguished sponsors, including Qatar Duty Free as Diamond sponsors as well as Galeries Lafayette Doha through Ali Bin Ali Holding and Chopard in partnership with Alfardan Jewellery as Platinum Sponsor. Their support to FTA’s mission in nurturing emerging designers from the MENA the region, is invaluable to the organization.

 

The esteemed FTA 2022 Judging committee includes:

Ruba Abu-Nimah – Creative Director Tiffany & Co
Yoon Ahn – Fashion Designer Yoon Ambush
Imran Amed – Founder & Chief Executive of The Business of Fashion
Gherardo Felloni – Creative Director Roger Vivier
Fernando Garcia & Laura Kim – Creative Directors Oscar de la Renta
Guram Gvasalia – Creative Director Vetements
Alex Israel – Multimedia Artist and Eyewear Designer
Michèle Lamy – Co-Founding Partner & Managing Director of Art/Furniture Owenscorp.

Camille Miceli – Creative Director Pucci
Amina Muaddi – Shoe Designer
Zuhair Murad – Fashion Designer
Pierpaolo Piccioli – Creative Director Valentino
Rachid Mohamed Rachid – Chairman Balmain and Valentino
Carine Roitfeld – Founder and Director of CR Fashion Book/CR Men and Founder of Carine Roitfeld Paris

Samuel Ross – Fashion Designer & Creative Director A-COLD-WALL
Olivier Rousteing – Creative Director Balmain
Remo Ruffini – CEO Moncler
Lorraine Schwartz – Jewelry Designer
Charaf Tajer – Creative Director Casablanca
Arnaud Vaillant & Sébastien Meyer – Creative Directors Coperni
Iris Van Herpen – Fashion Designer
Erin Walsh – Stylist

Stay tuned for more details on the event as they are revealed.

 

Rolls-Royce Reveals Its First All-Electric Motor Car

The highly-anticipated arrival of Rolls-Royce’s first all-electric motor car Spectre is finally here.

 

Marking the beginning of a new era for Rolls-Royce, Spectre has been years in the making and is a landmark moment for the company. In 1900 Rolls-Royce co-founder, Charles Rolls first foresaw the need for electric vehicles, seeing it as a clean, noiseless alternative to the internal combustion engine, even as far back as 1900.

 

 

This was followed more recently by Rolls-Royce CEO, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, who made a public commitment to electrification by announcing that he would bring a fully-electric Rolls-Royce to market within the current decade.

 

And now, Spectre is revealed as the world’s first Ultra-Luxury Electric Super Coupé is the spiritual successor to Phantom Coupé.

 

 

“Spectre possesses all the qualities that have secured the Rolls-Royce legend. This incredible motor car, conceived from the very beginning as our first fully-electric model, is silent, powerful and demonstrates how perfectly Rolls-Royce is suited to electrification. Spectre’s all-electric powertrain will assure the marque’s sustained success and relevance while dramatically increasing the definition of each characteristic that makes a Rolls-Royce a Rolls-Royce.” Said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

 

 

Spectre is not only an historic moment for Rolls-Royce, but also an historic moment for electrification – with Spectre, the marque confirms that the technology has reached a standard that can contain the Rolls-Royce experience. To that end, Rolls-Royce has confirmed that by the end of 2030 its entire product portfolio will be fully electric.

 

Spectre will be available for customers in 2023.

Etro Launches an Exclusive Design to Celebrate Qatar Ahead of the 2022 World Cup

 

Etro has introduced a new limited edition T-shirt inspired by the magic and beauty of Qatar ahead of the 2022 World Cup this November.

 

Created in collaboration with Ever Fashion Luxury Group, the 450-piece special capsule collection includes a men’s and a women’s style embellished with a vibrant print featuring floral motifs and Qatar’s skyline in the iconic colours of the Qatar national flag.

 

 

As well as the t-shirts, the Maison also designed a matching shopping bag for this exclusive collection. ETRO’s new limited-edition t-shirts will be available exclusively at the ETRO boutique in Doha’s Place Vendome Mall from the end of October.

 

The 2022 World Cup will kick off in Doha on 20th November 2022.

 

Roger Dubuis Debuts a Middle East Exclusive Timepiece

Roger Dubuis has unveiled the new Platinum Edition Excalibur Monobalancier, an exclusive timepiece that once again pushes the boundaries of innovation and design.

 

This new platinum edition which debuts as part of the iconic Excalibur Monobalancier series is available exclusively in the Middle East, reaffirming the brand’s close connection to the region.

 

 

Its unique design, platinum materials and vivid green colour showcase the results of Roger Dubuis’ daring and extreme craftsmanship. This precious material is designed to keep its colour and brilliance for years to come. The platinum used in this watch features anti-allergenic, less tarnishing, and sensitive characteristics in comparison to Gold and requires great expertise as 10T of mineral is needed to get 30g of Platinum.

 

 

The watch features a daring skeleton design with split hands and V-shaped indexes infused with clean intricate lines and the signature star that has become an icon of the watchmaker.

 

 

With a transparent view of its self-winding movement held directly on the inimitable Roger Dubuis star, the new calibre invites the wearer to dive in and survey the interior of the watch. The signature skeleton is an accomplishment mastered by the brand with every one of the components carefully finished by hand at the Manufacture in Geneva and sealed with the prestigious Poinçon de Genève.

 

The new Excalibur Monobalancier Platinum Edition will launch in October, exclusively at the Roger Dubuis boutique in Dubai Mall.

 

 

Valentino Will Reveal an Exclusive Exhibition in Qatar This Month

As part of the ongoing cultural movement Qatar Creates in association with Qatar Museums, Maison Valentino will present “Forever Valentino”, a major perspective exhibition that pays homage to its founder Valentino Garavani and its still-unfolding heritage of Haute Couture excellence.

 

This exclusive retrospective will take place at M7, the design and innovation hub located in Msheireb Downtown Doha, on view from 28 October 2022 to 1 April 2023 and will offer a stunning theatrical experience through the journey of the Maison.

 

Mr Valentino Garavani in his Atelier in Via Gregoriana 54, Rome, 1964.

 

The exhibition will explore Valentino’s Haute Couture codes, its home city of Rome and the story of its founder Valentino Garavani, as well as the latest chapter of the house, with Artistic Director Pierpaolo Piccioli at the helm. It is the Maison’s largest exhibition to date and the first of its kind for Valentino in the Middle East.

 

Valentino con le sarte (Piazza di Spagna)

 

The opening of Forever Valentino coincides with the 90th birthday of Valentino Garavani and the reveal of the Valentino Autumn/Winter 2022 Haute Couture collection which took place in Rome earlier this year. The exhibition is conceived as a vast panoramic view of the history of the Maison, embedded in scenography evoking the Eternal City, which has been Valentino’s home since its foundation in 1959. It builds a dream-like image of the city guiding viewers in and out of palazzos, squares, and courtyards, while simultaneously allowing exclusive access to secluded, intimate spaces such as the celebrated Valentino Ateliers, the storied archives of the Maison, and the fitting salons in the fabled headquarters of Piazza Mignanelli.

 

 

Throughout a reconstruction of some of Rome’s iconic locations, visitors will find Valentino’s creations, displayed in dialogue with many of the sources of inspiration that have stirred up the creativity of both the founder Valentino Garavani and his successor Pierpaolo Piccioli.

 

 

Forever Valentino will feature over 200 Valentino Haute Couture pieces and pret-à-porter outfits and accessories presented on mannequins and displayed in an immersive scenography. The craftsmanship and beauty of these pieces is woven throughout the journey of the house and the city Rome.

 

Pierpaolo PIccioli Spanish Steps

]Highlight pieces on display include rarely seen ensembles designed for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy and, more recently, Zendaya, along with pieces from the private collection of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, a long-standing client of Valentino.

 

“Forever Valentino” is curated by Massimiliano Gioni, Artistic Director of the New Museum New York, and fashion critic and author Alexander Fury, working closely with Valentino Creative Director, Pierpaolo Piccioli. Running from 28 October 2022 to 1 April 2023.

Repossi Presents Its Limited Edition Piece for 2022

Each year jeweller Repossi will unveil an exclusive limited edition piece, in September and March that best expresses the Maison’s savoir-faire and creativity.

 

For the first edition of the Limited Editions collection, Repossi unveils the new Transient Ring. An elegant yet modern piece that embodies Gaia Repossi’s passion for contemporary architecture and minimalism. This unmistakable ring features geometric sweeping lines, a minimalist curved body and a hand-set line of diamonds down the centre.

 

 

Made in 18-carat gold and limited to just 15 pieces this ring exudes exclusivity and individuality and is designed for the woman who knows what she wants.

 

 

Created with the highest standard of excellence by the finest craftsman, the Transient ring is a true reflection of the Repossi DNA.

 

 

The ring and its hand-set line of diamonds are fashioned through the precision of a lost-wax casting process. Once cast, the pieces are meticulously polished in the workshop. Finally, the two elements, each carrying its own powerful aesthetic, are welded together by a flame in the purest of jewellery traditions.

 

 

The Transient ring is limited to 15 numbered pieces and retails at €13,500.

 

WATCH: See Prada’s Fall/Winter 2022 Collections

Prada’s Fall/Winter 22 collections for men and women offer a fresh take on classic wardrobe staples. See the latest looks in our recent editorial “Street Life”.

 

 

Photography & Direction: John Rowley

Videographer: Lawrence Essex

Styling and Direction: Lindsay Judge

Hair and Makeup: Dani Guinsberg

Models: Magda at Story London, Alex at Next Model Management

With thanks to The Biltmore London

Shiseido Celebrates 150 Years of Beauty With an Exclusive Collection

For 150 years Shiseido has combined the best of science with cutting-edge technology to reveal your inner and outer beauty.

 

This ethos celebrates 150 years as the brand marks this landmark moment with an exclusive collection.

 

Inspired by some of the brand’s most iconic products a new special edition collection also shares that brands commitment to innovation, design and science. Using special 3D software the brand has been able to recreate the original design of some of its most memorable products from its early days.

 

Each of these products symbolises heritage, innovation in motion and the future.

 

 

Eudermine 150th Anniversary Edition features the Original arabesque design inspired by the 1897 glass bottle. It features prismatic colours and a carton made of paper from sustainably managed forests for the legendary lotion, known as “Shiseido Red Water”, which marked Shiseido’s first steps in cosmetics.

 

 

The Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate 150th Anniversary Edition is inspired by Shiseido’s best-selling serum. Encased in an iconic bottle the new formulation of this product is designed to strengthen vital flow and inner defences for healthier, more vibrant skin than ever.

 

 

And the third and final product in the exclusive collection, the Ultimune Power Shot
150th Anniversary Edition features a lightweight concentrate, anti-ageing serum. This is powered by the ImuGeneration150TM Technology, infused with Ultimune’s potent ingredients in a 15X concentration.

 

The collection will be available for a limited time at Shiseido stores and online.

Anya Taylor-Joy is the new face of Jaeger-LeCoultre

Anya Taylor-Joy is the new face of Jaeger-LeCoultre. The actress perfectly embodies the brand’s elegance and beauty.

 

Her partnership with the brand begins with a short video A Call of the Heart, in which she wears the Reverso Duetto Small in pink gold, featuring a silvery-white dial on the front and a black dial and diamond-set gadroons on the reverse side.

 

 

The video was inspired by a historic phone call that was to have a profound impact on the Manufacture LeCoultre. In 1903, Jacques-David LeCoultre made a call to the Parisian watchmaker Edmond Jaeger to accept the latter’s challenge of creating an ultra-thin watch movement – and so began a long and fruitful collaboration that led to the formation of the Jaeger-LeCoultre company.

 

“The encounter with Anya was meant to be. Her long family history with polo and interest in watchmaking led us to a natural partnership”, says Catherine Rénier, the CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre. “With her ethereal beauty, her sensitivity, her talent and hardworking ethics, she embodies the values and style of our Maison.”

 

 

Anya Taylor-Joy is the living embodiment of modern femininity. Her on-screen performances in the Netflix hit The Queen’s Gambit, Last Night in Soho and Robert Eggers’ The Northman, have seen her rise to fame for her captivating personality. Taylor-Joy will next be seen in David O. Russell’s Amsterdam with Christian Bale and Margot Robbie.

 

See more at jaeger-lecoultre.com

 

Makeup By Mario Debuts in the Middle East

Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic who is known for being Kim Kardashian’s go-to makeup artist is debuting his Makeup by Mario beauty line in the Middle East.

 

Makeup by Mario will be available exclusively at Sephora Middle East in stores and online and will feature his iconic products including Makeup By Mario Master Mattes™ Eyeshadow Palette, SoftSculpt® Shaping Sticks and Ultra Suede™ lipsticks.

 

His products are designed to be inclusive, weightless, long-lasting and suitable for all skin tones. “Makeup By Mario is effortless beauty inspired by the techniques I’ve perfected over the past 20 years. Each formula is meticulously crafted and each shade is universally inclusive,” – Mario Dedivanovic, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Creative Officer of Makeup By Mario.

 

 

As a young boy, Mario dreamt of becoming a makeup artist as he worked as a fragrance consultant at Sephora when he was just 17. Lacking a makeup kit, he filled a shoebox from his closet with products from Sephora, setting his mind on becoming a makeup artist and one day launching his own beauty line.

 

 

20 years later he launched Makeup By Mario in 2020 after becoming one of the world’s most recognised makeup artists. He is known for his flawless makeup looks that bring out a woman’s natural beauty, and of course, his unique approach to contouring, made famous by the looks he created for his muse, Kim Kardashian.

 

 

Makeup By Mario will be available in-store and online at Sephora and in stores starting October 2022.

 

The “Golden Canary”, One of the World’s Largest Polished Diamonds is unveiled in Dubai

Sotheby’s Dubai has unveiled one of the world’s largest polished diamonds before it goes auction in the United States this December.

 

At a staggering 303.10 carats, the Golden Canary is the largest flawless or internally flawless polished diamond ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America. Combining great rarity, beauty and intensity, this unique discovery is expected to take in the region of $15 million when it goes to auction in New York in December at Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction on December 7th. 

 

With a deep-brownish-yellow colour, this beautiful stone was recut from its original shield shape into a classic pear shape, to produce a deeper colour with a brighter hue and more elegant appeal. Coloured diamonds are continuing to make history this year, headlining Sotheby’s flagship jewellery auctions in Hong Kong, Geneva and New York.

 

Katia Nounou Boueiz, Head of Sotheby’s UAE said: “We are excited to continue to celebrate the UAE as the ultimate destination for lovers of luxury, with the global unveiling of a gemstone of such extraordinary calibre alongside a selling exhibition curated by our team here on the ground.”

 

 

The Golden Canary’s journey began in the early 1980s in the Democratic Republic of Congo when the stone was originally found amongst a pile of rubble by a young girl playing in the backyard of her uncle’s house. At the time, miners from the nearby MIBA diamond mine had considered the discovery too bulky to be diamond-bearing and had discarded it. Little did the miners know, that rubble turned out to be an 890-carat rough diamond, one of the largest rough diamonds the world had ever seen. The girl gave the stone to her uncle, who, in turn, sold it to local diamond dealers. 

 

The stone was first presented to the public in 1984 at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, displayed alongside the world’s most legendary diamonds. As the largest uncut, rough diamond known at that time, the 890-carat gem became a global news sensation, captivating the world’s curiosity. Over the next five years, the rough diamond was cut into 15 finished stones, from which the largest of the resulting diamonds, a Fancy Deep Brownish-Yellow weighing 407.49 carats, became formally known as the “Incomparable.” The shield-shaped step cut, with its unusually shaped facets and small table, preserved much of the shape and bulk of the original rough and was the largest internally flawless or flawless cut diamond ever created and graded by the GIA.

 

 

It has since featured in numerous museum exhibitions around the world, most notably The Nature of Diamonds at the American Museum of Natural History in New York in 1997, Diamants at the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in Paris in 2001, and most recently as part of “The Nature of Diamonds”, an exhibition that toured The Royal Ontario Museum and the Houston Museum of Science in 2008.

 

 

The decision was eventually made to recut the Incomparable to maximise the depth of its colour, brighten its hue and improve its shape, resulting in the stone known today as the Golden Canary. The GIA’s verdict about the stone in its recent monograph is unequivocal: “The re-cut of the Incomparable to the current 303.10-carat pear modified brilliant is to look at the diamond as new; a re-creation bringing to bear the advances in technology, computer modelling and visual evaluation available today. Everything from the orientation of the stone, to its shape and cutting style, has been considered.”

 

Quig Bruning, Head of Jewelry for Sotheby’s America’s said: “We have had an exceptional year of presenting extraordinary coloured diamonds at our global jewellery auctions, as the demand and appetite for these rarities continues to grow. Just two weeks after the record-breaking sale of the Williamson Pink Star for $57.7 million, we are honoured to offer the largest polished diamond in present existence to appear at auction. Steeped in history, The Golden Canary is one of the most exquisite diamonds to ever be discovered, not only for its sheer size and intensity in colour but for its stunning beauty that is sure to captivate collectors around the world. Sotheby’s is privileged to help write the next chapter for this incomparable, reborn gem.”

 

The diamond will travel on a global tour beginning in Dubai and visiting cities including Taipei, Geneva, and Hong Kong before the final auction on December 7th 2022.

 

AlUla Announces Its New Artists Residency Programme

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of its latest artist residency programme in partnership with the French Agency for AlUla Development (Afalula).

 

The Artist Residency Programme aims to nurture creativity, engage communities and shine a new light on the beauty and regeneration of AlUla’s unique heritage and landscapes. It aims to foster dialogue, exchange and collaboration between the artists in residence and the scientific community on the ground in AlUla, as well as local practitioners and members of the local community.

 

Madrasat AdDeera

 

A group of six artists have been selected to absorb and research the local heritage and play a major role in transforming the area into a cultural hub. The artists will work alongside archaeologists, botanists, water specialists, craftsmen, oasian agro-systems specialists, and perfume scientists who will provide them insights into the workings of the land.

 

This in-depth collaboration with the experts will give them the opportunity to be part of the research that is currently undertaken in AlUla – a living museum.

 

The group of artists is made up of three men and three women from Saudi Arabia, France, Morocco, the Philippines, the UAE and USA. The selection criteria was based on a mix of the artist’s experiences and technical abilities. They will undertake a diversity of practices to celebrate this new AlUla Artist Residency, including visual arts, mixed media, installations, poetry, performance and documentary photography.

 

They will take part in workshops and public talks throughout the programme and will showcase their ongoing research through an Open Studio in December, proposing a fresh look at how to give a new lease of life to the land and to make sure it is connected to its history.

 

Nora Aldabal, Executive Director of Arts and Creative Industries, RCU said: “The latest Artist Residency will build on the foundations of our pilot programme, and is our next step in shaping the ever-evolving legacy of AlUla. The local community of AlUla and the artists will both play fundamental roles in combining the essence of a place, local histories and artistic skill. Additionally, whatever their angle of approach or their preferred technique, this research residency will offer these six artists an exceptional and inimitable field of investigation.”

 

 

The 2022 Edition of Gitex Global Offers a Glimpse of Life in the Future

 

This year’s recent edition of Gitex Global gave visitors and look into how future life might be. With over 5,000 regional and international technology companies showcasing their latest innovations at the trade fair, this year’s event saw everything from flying cars to robots to self-efficient home solutions, all sharing a vision for future life. The event was opened by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and over five days, more than 138,000 people visited the fair, including UAE dignitaries and Royal family members.

 

Highlights of the show included the unveiling of Ameca, the Humanoid Robot who has become the first robotic member of staff at Dubai’s Museum of the Future. Described by its manufacturer, Engineered Arts, as the world’s most advanced human-shaped robot representing the forefront of human-robotics technology, Ameca is AI-powered and features a human-like face and a robotic body, shaped like a human. She is capable of making facial expressions and even has a sense of humour. Ameca will be part of the Museum of the Future’s Tomorrow Today exhibition and will greet and interact with visitors, guiding them around the museum and answering questions.

Ameca, the Humanoid Robot 

A flying car was also revealed during the event. Hosted by the Dubai International Chamber, the world’s first public flight of the eVTOL flying car X2, designed by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng, too place at Skydive Dubai. The unmanned two-seater vehicle was in the air for a 90-minute test flight. The energy-efficient design emits zero carbon dioxide and is designed with low-altitude city capabilities in mind, with a maximum flight speed of 130 kilometres per hour. It is equipped with an intelligent flight control system and autonomous flight capabilities. This new design showcases how travel of the future could a reality sooner than we may think.

Taking place within the Dubai Police Pavilion under the theme “Unique Partnership”, Emirates Parking showcased the latest AI-powered techniques and innovations developed to provide world-class services. These included Emirates Parking’s smart app, which provides roadside assistance for vehicles. The app also offers many services including towing vehicles, refuelling, changing tires and batteries, and transporting vehicles stuck in the sand. The app is powered by the latest artificial intelligence techniques to speed up customer service and ensure the smooth flow of traffic on roads in case of vehicle breakdowns, thus enhancing traffic safety. The company also briefed visitors on its new smart system, which combines logistical and high-tech services while streamlining the process of impounding vehicles.

 

Sharjah Government discusses future technologies with international companies at GITEX Global 2022

 

The Sharjah Government which received visits from over 40 VIPs unveiled 15 new projects and initiatives under the slogan, ‘Together, Integrating People and Technology’. Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Higher Committee of the Sharjah Government Pavilion at GITEX Global, Director of the Sharjah Digital Office, said: “The successful participation of the Government of Sharjah at GITEX Global opens up prospects for further progress towards continuing human integration with technology, a goal that the slogan of this participation was inspired from. We thank all the government entities that contributed to the success of this exceptional participation and introduced to the world the technical progress achieved by Sharjah in various sectors.” The projects showcased by Sharjah Government included innovative projects employing cutting-edge technologies to improve workflows in government services, achieve operational competencies and provide enhanced customer services for the welfare of its people. Projects in the metaverse ecosystem were launched alongside AI, robotics, augmented reality and virtual reality technologies in the future of mobility, marketing technology, data economy, smart cities, and education.

 

Emirates parking

 

Business incubator in5 showcases a selection of Dubai-based start-ups that highlight a range of innovations including businesses advancing cloud-based workflow automation, consumer electronic subscriptions, media streaming and targeting services and more. The incubator has supported more than 500 SME businesses since it began, promoting homegrown talent and innovation. Its success stories include Careem and Souk.com. On behalf of in5, Majed Al Suwaidi, Senior Vice President – Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City and Dubai Production City, said: “Dubai has established a globally competitive business environment and become a desirable location for talent, entrepreneurs, and investors from all over the world. World-class infrastructure, advanced business policies, and a supportive atmosphere increase the emirate’s attractiveness to founders, creatives and independent thinkers around the world.”

 

The 2022 edition of Gitex ran from Monday October 10th to Friday October 14th.

 

See Inside Bulgari’s High Jewellery Creations in a New Documentary

For the first time, Bulgari has opened the doors of its Maison to reveal the fascination behind the creation of its stunning High Jewellery collections. Offering an unprecedented look behind the scenes of the whole creative process, Bulgari uncovers the secrets of the process of making, from the stunning gems to the red carpet, from dream to magnificent reality.

 

The film shows these beautiful jewels being worn by some of the Maison’s ambassadors including Zendaya, Lily Aldridge, Chiara Ferragni and Priyanka Chopra Jonas as well as following the journey of its Jewellery Creative Director Lucia Silvestri.

 

Lucia Silvestri in India

 

Working at the heart of the jeweller, Silvestri takes the audience on the journey of the Maison’s most precious designs as we follow the journey from the search for precious gems in Jaipur, India, to the conception of unique pieces in Bulgari’s headquarters in Rome. Each stage of the journey uncovers the unique talents and skills that come into play in the quest for wonder.

 

Chiara Ferragni

 

One of the pieces featured in the docufilm is the Serpenti Hypnotic Emerald necklace which features a staggering 93.83-carat Colombian cabochon-cut emerald, set with diamonds and emeralds, worn by Zendaya at the 78th Venice International Film Festival.

 

 

Produced by Terminal 9 Studios and directed by emerging talent Matthieu Menu the film titled “Inside the Dream” is out now on MBC Shahid and available on Prime Video in approximately 100 countries.