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Art fairs in Asia: 9 gallerists review Art Fair Philippines 2017 held in Makati City, Manila

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March 29, 2017

Art fairs in Asia: 9 gallerists review Art Fair Philippines 2017 held in Makati City, Manila

Jose Joya, 'Blue Harbour', 1966, oil on canvas. Image courtesy of Leon Gallery — Jose Joya, ‘Blue Harbour’, 1966, oil on canvas. Image courtesy of Leon Gallery

Situated in an unlikely place for an art fair, Art Fair Philippines has grown from strength to strength since its inception in 2013. This year, from February 16 to 19, galleries, mostly from Manila, set up shop in a multi-story car park at The Link Carpark, Ayala Centre, Makati City. The energy of the art fair was palpable, and the fair was praised all round. Art Republik spoke to participating gallerists about the fair, and here is what they had to say:

“I think the great thing about the Art Fair is that it provides so many opportunities for artists and audiences alike. There’s always so much variety in the works featured; it’s a huge mixture of art spanning across different styles and genres, by artists of past, present, and future, and it’s a kind of exposure you don’t get to experience very often. This year was arguably the biggest yet, and the number of men, women, and children of all ages that braved the snaking lines and packed booths for the sake of art shows considerable promise for its future in this country.”
— Danielle Ongsiako Isabela, Communications Associate, Salcedo Auctions

Louie Cordero, 'Teenage_Marble Discharge', 2017, automotive paint on resin, edition of 1, variable dimensions. Image courtesy of MO_Space — Louie Cordero, ‘Teenage_Marble Discharge’, 2017, automotive paint on resin, edition of one, variable dimensions. Image courtesy of MO_Space

“Amidst all the frenzy of the fair, the highlight of my art fair experience was when I encountered a buyer who was deeply touched by an artwork we presented. For that moment, all the noise of the art fair disappears and you find yourself with the artwork, the artist, and the collector deeply connected with each other in a quiet conversation.”
— Mark L. Bugante, Graphic Designer, Artinformal

“Art Fair Philippines 2017 was a huge success! Although it was a gruelling 5-day event, the smiles and the awe on the people’s faces after seeing such incredible, sometimes indescribable art was all worth the exhaustion. The contemporary art in the Philippines is now as alive as ever. I do hope it will inspire the next generation to create and create and create. From this creation, we may be able to find the next Picasso or Van Gogh and it might just come from the Philippines.”
— Johanna Labitoria, Assistant Art Director, Galleria Duemila

Bernando Pacquing, 'Lotus 04', 2016, oil on canvas, 72 inches in height x 54 inches in width (182.88 centimetres in height x 137.16 centimetres in width). Image courtesy of Silverlens — Bernando Pacquing, ‘Lotus 04’, 2016, oil on canvas, 72 inches in height x 54 inches in width. Image courtesy of Silverlens

“Art Fair Philippines continues to grow every year. It has an underground vibe, making it raw and real, and adding to the excitement. We also see a support group of art buyers, artists, and arts community here. It’s both diverse and fun. An emerging trend in both local and international buyers are coming to visit the art fair each year. TAKSU will continue to participate and represent our Filipino artists in both Singapore and Malaysia with shows in year 2017!”
— Suherwan, Director, Taksu Gallery

“Manila is a city always trying to negotiate with itself: not everything works, but things kind of work. At The Link, where Art Fair Philippines is held, the ceilings are low, the lighting is inconsistent at best, and the air conditioners blow hot air for the last two days of the fair. But everyone shows up: all our clients and collectors, all the artists and curators, and thousands of people from all walks of life. This year we saw record numbers of visitors who all flew in to plug into the energy of the art world in Manila. This energy is amazing. We talk to hundreds of people about our artists, and we introduce the program for the rest of the year.”
— Isa Lorenzo, Founder, Silverlens

Chati Coronel, 'Licorice and Neon', 2016, acrylic on canvas, 60 inches in height x 84 inches in width (152.4 centimetres in height x 213.36 centimetres in width). Image courtesy of Silverlens — Chati Coronel, ‘Licorice and Neon’, 2016, acrylic on canvas, 60 inches in height x 84 inches in width. Image courtesy of Silverlens

“We exhibited National Artist Jose Joya with the Asian Cultural Council. The art fair was very well attended! It went way beyond capacity! I’ve never participated in an art fair that had lines meandering around the block. I have to congratulate the organizers.”
— Jaime Ponce de Leon, Founder, Leon Gallery

Art Fair Philippines 2017 has contributed greatly to the awareness of contemporary art. Its informal venue, accessibility and affordability, especially to students, encourage people to make it a destination of choice. Of course, much still has to be improved, like educating the audience on how to look at the art. But that will come in time.
— Dawn Atienza, Gallery Director, Tin-Aw

Wawi Navarroza, ‘I Want to Live A Thousand More Years (Self-Portrait After Dengue, with tropical plants and fake flowers)’, 2016, archival pigment paint, edition of 5. Image courtesy of Silverlens — Wawi Navarroza, ‘I Want to Live A Thousand More Years (Self-Portrait After Dengue, with tropical plants and fake flowers)’, 2016, archival pigment paint, edition of five. Image courtesy of Silverlens

I have been visiting or working at the Art Fair Philippines for the past three years, and I see a very strong progression at this year’s edition. It is getting bigger every year, and the visitors are better informed and increasingly enthusiastic. I detect a new readiness for approaching and discovering contemporary art in the art buyers, and the interest in non-Filipino art. I was overwhelmed by the reception of the Southeast Asian artists, and I’m thrilled to see the increased curiosity of mixing Filipino art with other South-east Asian artists. I hope Art Fair Philippines will continue to become a relevant platform for the contemporary art in the region.
— Nikolai Kleist Burkal, Gallery Manager, Galerie Michael Janssen

“It’s definitely becoming more popular and more international. The visiting crowd is bigger this year and there is a surge of young people wanting to buy affordable artworks.”
— Abby Teotico, Gallery Director, Galerie Stephanie

This article published in Art Republik 14.

Unique hotels in Iceland: The Moss Hotel and Lava Cove set to open in the Blue Lagoon

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March 29, 2017

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Unique hotels in Iceland: The Moss Hotel and Lava Cove set to open in the Blue Lagoon

An up and coming travel destination is the Nordic nation of Iceland. Less than an hour’s drive from the capital, Reykjavik, is the Blue Lagoon — a natural geothermal spa — that happens to be one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions. As a travel hotspot for many visitors, the site is often bustling. However, a new luxury hotel and spa complex overlooking the lagoon will soon offer visitors a haven of tranquility among the hustle and bustle.

The Moss Hotel and Lava Cove spa will be situated on the south-west side of the Blue Lagoon. The complex will offer visitors a peaceful haven thanks to a private extension of the Blue Lagoon, called the Lava Lagoon, filled with the same beneficial waters. The development will also feature an underground spa with a lava-rock-heated steam room for sweating out toxins, plus a fire pit and a sauna. Guests can also enjoy the mesmerising sight and calming sounds of falling water trickling down a rocky wall.

The hotel will feature 62 luxurious rooms, each with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views over the natural landscape. Plus, there’ll be plenty of spaces to relax and unwind, with lounge areas and a library. Guests will also be able to sample a seven-course tasting menu at the Moss Restaurant, with views over the lagoon’s milky waters, accompanied by fine vintages from a wine cellar built deep in the centuries-old lava.

The luxury hotel development responds to growing demand with high numbers of tourists now visiting the site. The hotel will be built into the volcanic landscape, boring into lava dating from 1226.

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa in the south-west of the country. The site attracts crowds of visitors every year given its exceptional character and stunning scenery. Set among a lava field, tourists flock to bathe in the Blue Lagoon’s warm, milky-blue and mineral-rich waters, fed by the output of a nearby geothermal power plant. Particularly rich in silica and sulfur, the Lagoon is a hotspot for visitors in search of relaxation, and spa and wellness-based activities.

The Moss Hotel and Lava Cove spa are due to open this fall. Rooms are priced around 109,000 ISK (approx. $982) or 300,000 ISK (approx. $2,704) for a suite with private access to the Lava Lagoon.

Islands in Asia via yacht charters: Visit Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia with Princess Yachts

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March 28, 2017

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Islands in Asia via yacht charters: Visit Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia with Princess Yachts

With options aplenty, Vrit Yongsakul who is the Group Managing Director of Boat Lagoon Yachting and Princess Yachts Southeast Asia picks out several islands that show us some of the finest travel destinations that Asia has to offer. Better still, all these destinations can be explored with a yacht — which one can charter from Princess Yachts.

From the sun-drenched beaches of Thailand to the stunning dive sites in Malaysia, we sail off with Yongsakul to find out what is in store. “There’s no better way to see the world than from the ocean. Cruising around exciting charter destinations on board a yacht offers new horizons while having the opportunity to enjoy elite levels of service and absolute luxurious comfort,” says Vrit Yongsakul. “All these South-east Asian destinations offer wonderful, all year-round temperatures welcoming each visitor both on land and sea. A yacht charter vacation will also provide destinations that are lesser travelled by traditional tourists, giving visitors the opportunity to be among the first to explore the destination.”

Phuket/ Krabi, Thailand

Considered to be the best sailing destination in Southeast Asia due to its extensive coastline, lush islands and beautiful rock formations, the islands of Thailand may each offer a unique beach but they share the pristine waters and tranquillity. Phuket is perfect for sailing enthusiasts who want to escape the busy life and enjoy exotic fauna and flora, hidden coves and bays, while Krabi is perfect for its famous sea-mountain scenery and amazing clear waters for fine snorkelling and diving.

Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

Made up of topography of rock formations and sheer-sided limestone cliffs that climb vertically out of the calm turquoise waters, Phang Nga Bay is also known as a marine national park. Accommodation can be found on Phuket, as most of the islands are uninhabited. Sailing is an activity that is safe all year round while kayaking and dinghies allow you to explore the innumerable caves, creeks, hidden lagoon and mangrove swamps. The bay is also home to Ko Tapu, better known as James Bond Island, which shot to fame as part of the 1974 James Bond film, “The Man with the Golden Gun”. Yachts can be anchored at nearby Koh Yang and a long tail boat can be taken to Sea Gypsy Island for lunch. This village is built over water entirely on rafts and stilts, with a huge rock monolith standing guard behind it.

The Similan Islands, Thailand

Situated approximately 50 miles or 80 kilometers north-west from the popular holiday destination known by many as Phuket, is the Similan Islands. The islands that are made up of massive granite boulders, offer a different landscape to Phang Nga Bay. Apart from the boulders that continue down to the seabed and make for a magical world underwater, the Islands are also known for the clear water that surround it. With the coral and marine life that call the area home, the Similan Islands are lauded as the true snorkelling and diving paradise in Asia and one of the best in the world.

The Andaman Islands, Thailand

If you thought the waters around the Similan Islands was impressive, then the pristine surroundings of Andaman Islands will take your breath away. Just a little further from Phuket, the extra time needed to reach this tropical island is well worth the trip. Time spent there will allow you to get closer to nature thanks to the diverse wildlife and clean sailing waters that will leave you with memories for years to come.

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Made up of two islands — Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le — this happens to be a destination in the region that cannot be missed. The stunning cliffs that dive into the clear blue sea have even had a starring role in the film “The Beach”. On land or by sea, the Phi Phi Islands offer a host of activities to those who visit it. Snorkelling, swimming and diving around the islands are described as nothing short of flawless and unrivalled while those who climb the limestone are able to catch a view of the stunning beaches, palm trees and sparkling waters — truly a sight one has to see to believe.

Ang Thong Marine National Park, Thailand

Made up of 40 islands and hundreds of limestone monoliths that spring out of the ocean, the park is less than a day’s sailing from Koh Samui. The marine park was first created in 1980 and remains untouched by developments, allowing visitors to connect with nature that surrounds them. A popular attraction is the enclosed lagoon known as Thale Nai or “Inner Sea”. Surrounded by thick vegetation and overhanging cliffs, this is one for the nature buffs in search of pristine locations that have not seen the effects of human advancement.

Bali, Indonesia

One of the must-see places in Bali is Ubud, which is located a couple of hours north of Kuta. The town is littered with restaurants, art galleries, art works and hand crafts that can be bought and shipped home from most galleries. On the road between Kuta and Ubud lies the village of Celuk famous for its gold and silver smiths. The town offers a multitude of jewellery, with designs ranging from tribal to modernistic with a mix of western and eastern influences.

Komodo Island, Indonesia

As a designated National Park, this is yet another treasure that Indonesia has to offer. Sitting in the centre of the Indonesian archipelago — between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores— the island is also home to the famous Komodo dragons. The UNESCO World Heritage site is blessed with secluded beaches, beautiful coral reefs and clear waters for days that make this the perfect destination to relax in.

Lombok, Indonesia

Boasting untouched beaches and surrounded by sleepy fishing towns that one can explore, the island that lies to the west of Bali also captivates tourists for another reason. Home to the active volcano called Rinjani, one can enjoy the captivating view of the crater lake within after a challenging trek to the caldera. The journey to the crater is also a chance for visitors to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, some of which are native to and only found in Lombok.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

Not far from the coast of Lombok — off the northwestern tip to be precise— lies the Gili Islands. Made up of three islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, the location has several operators who provide scuba diving courses and excursions to dive sites around the islands.

Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Located around ten nautical miles from the north-eastern coast of West Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands are populated by an abundance of sea turtles and placid sharks. With a visibility of 10 to 20 metres, diving conditions are generally fantastic. For less experienced divers, the waters fringing the beaches are just as ideal for a spot of snorkelling. With plenty to see in shallower waters, charterers of all ages are sure to be mesmerised.

Sabah, Malaysia

The cruising grounds off the coast of Sabah offer something for everyone – from West to East, the state is surrounded by idyllic and picturesque islands. On the West coast just off Kota Kinabalu lies Tanjung Aru, a small tranquil island where one can find few high-end resorts with relaxing beaches. One of the main attractions in Sabah is the world class diving found off the state’s East coast, namely Sipadan, which has gained worldwide recognition due to its unique geographical features, incredibly diverse underwater ecosystems. The surrounding islands of Mabul and Kapalai also offer excellent diving conditions, countless tropical fish species and well-conditioned soft and hard corals.

BaselWorld 2017 Highlights: TAG Heuer releases a new Autavia model in Switzerland

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March 28, 2017

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BaselWorld 2017 Highlights: TAG Heuer releases a new Autavia model in Switzerland

It is 55 years of the TAG Heuer Autavia and the watchmaker is celebrating fans of the collection by releasing a 2017 model inspired by the 1963 Autavia Rindt model. Basically, the brand had announced the Autavia Cup last year, giving TAG Heuer fans and collectors a shot at selecting the appropriate historical Autavia to pay tribute to. More than 50,000 chose between 16 shortlisted models, with the Rindt pulling ahead at the end. Of course, the 2017 model is hardly a mere reproduction, with the redoubtable automatic calibre Heuer 02 powering the chronograph and a black aluminium bezel adding a visceral contemporary touch.

Jack Heuer – who christened the watch – wanted the watch to be a virtual dashboard on the wrist and he brought the principles of the golden ratio to bear on the design. This new version certainly takes Heuer’s landmark vision into account, which you can see if you look closely at the way the elements are organised on the dial. Purists may object to the addition of the date window at 6 o’clock and the 42mm size but should be content that the new version improves on the original’s composition and proportions.

Design ideas for the home: Siemens Home Appliances are “Great Minds in Kitchen Design”

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March 28, 2017

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Design ideas for the home: Siemens Home Appliances are “Great Minds in Kitchen Design”

What does your kitchen mean to you? A place to unwind and relax after a long day, a communal space that brings together friends and family, or a room to entertain or socialise, the possibilities are manifold. The modern kitchen has certainly come a long way from its traditional rendering as solely a cooking space. Now, kitchens symbolise much more than pure function; they reflect lifestyle, status, and an attitude of enjoyment designed to enhance one’s quality of life.

Harnessing these aspects is at the forefront of the Siemens Home Appliances brand, which recently launched its first kitchen design book in Hong Kong, titled “Great Minds in Kitchen Design”. The book celebrates a partnership with five of Hong Kong’s finest kitchen designers and showcases their creative views on the changing landscape of modern kitchen design, as well as the various types of kitchen spaces found in the city. Through several specially curated showroom concepts and feature pieces contributed by each of the five designers, Siemens aims to highlight the importance of the kitchen and how it functions as an integral part of contemporary living. The right kitchen design then, bears the potential to enrich and refine the lives of the consumer today, transforming what we find beautiful into something greater that inspires efficiency and enjoyment.

Inside, the book presents some key perspectives on conceptualising the modern kitchen. Tommy Fong, owner and designer at Kitench, discusses incorporating a taste for beautiful luxury kitchens with the maximisation of living space in one of the world’s most densely populated cities. Sunny Chan, owner and designer at Elegant Kitchen, approaches the kitchen as the “homeowner’s crown jewel”, a vehicle for entertaining and social bonding. For Almas Lam, owner and designer at Bonkuchen, home relaxation and living are themes that take precedence in designing the kitchen, while designer-to-the-stars Gilbert Tam, owner and Chief Designer at Pro-Kitchen, sees a well-designed demonstration kitchen as an important first step to further promoting the trend of teaching culinary arts at home. Finally, Davis Ng, owner and Kitchen Design Specialist at Euro Cucina, strives for an all-purpose kitchen workspace that balances both productivity and activity with comfort and pleasure. With a strong team of talented and dedicated minds behind such an endeavour, the kitchen is poised to become a stylish and efficient living space that takes centre stage in every home.

The “Great Minds in Kitchen Design” book is now available at the Siemens Home Appliances Showroom and online. For more information, do visit www.siemens.com

This article was first published in Palace 18.

Classic car collectors in 2017 favour modern Porsches and McLarens at Amelia Island

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March 28, 2017

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Classic car collectors in 2017 favour modern Porsches and McLarens at Amelia Island

A 1964 Porsche 901 Cabriolet Prototype surrounded by other Porsches | © Christopher Head — A 1964 Porsche 901 Cabriolet Prototype surrounded by other Porsches at the RM Sotheby’s Paris 2017 sale at Place Vauban in February this year. | © Christopher Head

At Amelia Island, concours-condition collectible cars were paraded and auction prices for modern classic cars were further adjusted. Collectors showed that they could well be falling out of love with 1960s Ferraris in favour of modern Porsches and even McLarens.

RM Sotheby’s auction of 150 lots ranging from vintage Bugattis to modern Bentleys generated $70.9 million in sales.

“Not only was it our best ever Amelia Island performance, but the highest tally in Amelia Island auction history,” said Gord Duff, Auction Manager, RM Sotheby’s. “The calibre of entries our team secured for this year’s event was second-to-none.” The star of its show was a 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Cabriolet that went under the hammer for $7.7 million.

And, even though some 19 cars in total managed to attract winning bids in excess of $1 million, a host of vehicles that were expected to send the room into a frenzy failed to meet their estimate, including two Ferraris — a 1961 250GT SWB ($9-$10million) and a 1950 166 MM Barchetta by Touring (pre-sale estimate of $8-$10 million).

All of which suggests that interest in the bluest of blue-chip Ferraris is on the wane, or at least that everyone with the interest and money to invest in such a machine already has one in his or her collection. As a result premium collectors are looking to other Italian marques — mid-1960s Alfa Romeos, Lancias and Maseratis all performed well at all Amelia Island auctions this year — or they’re looking to ‘modern classics’ or essentially new cars with extremely limited production runs.

For example, a 1995 Ferrari F50 once owned by boxer Mike Tyson secured a $2.64 million winning bid making it the second most expensive car sold by RM Sotheby’s; and a 2012 Bugatti Veyron fetched $1.65 million and a 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.0 went for $1.375 million.

At the Gooding & Co Ameila island auction, a 2012 McLaren P1 fetched a never-before achieved $2.392 million but the cars in the biggest demand were of the Porsche variety.

A row of Porsches at the RM Sotheby's Paris 2017 sale at Place Vauban in February this year. | © Christopher Head — A row of Porsches at the RM Sotheby’s Paris 2017 sale at Place Vauban in February this year. | © Christopher Head

The star of its sale of more than $30 million was a 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Strassenversion which went for a phenomenal $5.665 million.

“We achieved strong results for a number of exceptional cars, especially from the Porsche marque, exemplified by the world record price achieved for the GT1 Strassenversion,” said Gooding & Company president David Gooding. “In spite of the 13 world record prices set, we are definitely seeing a market shift, which is healthy for the marketplace as a whole.”

The sale also set new records for the 964-generation Porsche 911 with a Turbo S Leichtbau ($1.54 million), the 2011 997 GT3 RS 4.0 ($748,000), and the 2011 Porsche 997 GT2 RS ($561,000).

And while the trend for Porsches seems to be getting into full swing, attention is also shifting to other marques with a track connection. There is a surge of interest in late 1940s to mid-1960s Aston Martins, the Jaguar E-Type is continuing to get strong prices and the Amelia Island auctions also set a record for Mazda. A 1989 Mazda 767B that raced at Le Mans fetched $1.75 million.

The next major classic car auction will be on the banks of Lake Como during the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on May 27 before the season reaches its zenith with Monterey motoring week and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this August.