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In the Mind of an Artist

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Gigi Scaria, talks to FWD about his art, ideology and his latest exhibition of art at Gallery Chemould titled Ark.

Gigi Scaria’s was born in Kothanalloor, Kerala, India in 1973, Gigi received his B.F.A in painting from the College of Fine Arts in Thiruvananthapuram and his M.F.A. in painting from The Jamia Millia University in New Delhi.
An artist of international acclaim, he has received numerous awards, residencies, and honors internationally.

Could tell us about Ark? Where does the idea of it come from?

The idea of Ark comes from the biblical story of Noah. A major idea that Ark contains is that of the annihilation of the world and a new beginning, there on. It talks about the entire humanity being wiped off from the face of the earth and only the memories being carried forward in an Ark. From the memories, one looks for a new beginning, trying to make it better than the past. In that sense, even the architectural element comes in as you conceive something new. Ark talks about a new civilization formed in a purely conceptual sense. Also, this is a story told by every civilization.

How long has the idea been there? How has it evolved from the biblical idea of the Ark?

Gallery-Chemould-fwd-life-2It obviously comes from my childhood memories of the story that I read and heard. But the understanding that I have developed working on the urban structure and socio -political dynamics, gives it a new light. In Ark, I have a set of graphite drawings, paintings, and videos, where the videos are actually the extension of paintings. I created my paintings and then animated videos of similar kind of imagery, making it seem like an extension.
So, in many ways I am juxtaposing the old idea of the Ark with the contemporary. Today we are facing the brunt of issues right from wars and destruction to an impending environmental catastrophe. I think this brings back the Ark into relevance. If you remember, the seed bank in Norway was opened during the Syrian refugee crisis. So you see, that Ark becomes an element of archiving your memory, your culture. The Ark bears testimony to the fact that a civilization cannot function as an independent entity, it always has memories that humanity carries along.

You seem to enjoy working in a variety of mediums. How has this come about?

Yes, I work with different mediums. Though I trained as a painter, I was equally interested in sculpting and cinema. Certain areas and certain thoughts can be expressed only in a certain medium. Though I have dwelled in different mediums, I do it simultaneously and not one medium at a time. It always depends on the subject and the idea that I am working on.

The Elevator is one work where you have used the medium of video to its limit, could you talk about this work?

The elevator was exhibited in Venice Biennale in 2007, where it was part of the India Pavilion. The whole work, as the name suggests, is about an Elevator, with three battery projection. It is a real elevator that is illuminated by the battery projections. As the video starts moving, it gives you the feeling of being elevated. And as it moves, it gives you views of interiors of different households; the upper- class household, the middle class, and the downtrodden and as you reach the top, it gives you the view of an entire city. The core idea of The Elevator is the issue of class and hierarchy. Elevators are plainly about going up or coming down. An elevator never gives you the parallel view. I think that represents the perspective of modern economies, nations, and media, where numbers are all that matter. With The Elevator, I tried to incorporate a parallel view into an elevator.

How do you view class and hierarchy? Are you willing to accept it as an inevitable reality of our socioeconomic system?

Conventionally, we have always looked at progress and development in terms of numbers. But the recent political developments give you a hint that this archaic idea is being questioned. People are increasingly becoming aware and emotionally connected, so undermining emotions is not something you can do anymore. The way I see it, leaders who just look at numbers, even with all their confidence and arrogance, are bound to fail.

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How has Kerala influenced you?

Kerala has not influenced but made me. It is Kerala that has helped me develop my perspective and intellectual understanding; it is from this space that I look at things elsewhere. Though I have not been living in Kerala, I have never been alienated from it. I was always a voracious reader of Malayalam literature while in Kerala and still continue to do so. I still have a fair idea about the new books coming up and so on.

As somebody who has lived in Kerala, how do you view traditions? What is your take on the glorification or demonization of it?

All over India, tradition is such a big thing. It is something that we have to negotiate day in and day out and many a times, it’s a hindrance. It might be an exotic thing for Westerners and the tourism industry but living with it is a different game altogether. The idiosyncrasies involved in keeping the traditions alive are a lot of troubles. When it comes to caste or religion, it has all got so complicated that we don’t know what tradition is, what religion is and what other ideological matters are, it is all fused into a Kichdi. And also there is the unrest caused by religious strife and extremism. If you ask me, I would probably say that all religions should be banned. If that cannot be accommodated then I shall advocate the path of Sufism, where when one can stay religious yet refrain from the extremism of any sort.

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The Microscopic Handbag Phenomenon: MSCHF’s Bold and Tiny Louis Vuitton Creation

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In the realm of fashion, innovation knows no bounds, and the boundary-pushing collective known as MSCHF constantly proves this point. Their latest creation, a microscopic handbag inspired by Louis Vuitton, has taken the industry by storm, captivating fashion enthusiasts around the globe. Breaking free from traditional size constraints and redefining functionality, this miniature accessory has ignited curiosity and sparked a sensation. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary world of MSCHF’s microscopic handbag, exploring its origins, unique features, and the remarkable buzz it has generated.

MSCHF, renowned for their unconventional and thought-provoking projects, partnered with luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton to unleash a game-changing collaboration. Together, they birthed a surprising twist on the classic handbag, pushing the boundaries of scale to an entirely new level. The microscopic handbag challenges the norm and introduces an audacious new concept.

Measuring a mere 1.5 inches in height, the microscopic handbag is a masterpiece of miniaturization. This whimsical accessory captures the essence of a traditional Louis Vuitton purse, complete with the iconic monogram pattern and signature leather trim. Despite its minuscule size, it exudes luxury and craftsmanship, embodying the brand’s prestige and aesthetic.

The MSCHF microscopic handbag represents a captivating fusion of fashion and art. It blurs the lines between these creative realms and prompts us to question our perception of material possessions. Through this micro-sized wonder, MSCHF challenges our understanding of fashion’s role in society and invites us to contemplate the value we attach to material goods.

Since its introduction, the microscopic handbag has caused a viral sensation across social media platforms. Its diminutive size and unexpected collaboration have captivated fashion enthusiasts and sparked intriguing discussions. This extraordinary creation serves as a catalyst for conversations about fashion trends, the power of satire in design, and the evolving landscape of the industry. Once again, MSCHF has successfully captured the attention of the fashion world, pushing boundaries and reshaping our perception of what is considered fashionable.

MSCHF has cemented its legacy as a disruptive force in the fashion and art realms. Their innovative and thought-provoking projects consistently challenge norms and captivate audiences. With the microscopic handbag, they have once again showcased their ability to generate intrigue, spark conversations, and inspire wonder within the industry.

In conclusion, the MSCHF microscopic handbag stands as a testament to bold creativity and audacity in the world of fashion. Its tiny size and unexpected collaboration with Louis Vuitton have shattered conventional handbag design and ignited curiosity on a global scale. This extraordinary creation not only exemplifies the artistry and innovation of MSCHF but also invites us to reflect on the ever-evolving nature of fashion and its profound impact on our collective imagination. As we eagerly anticipate MSCHF’s next groundbreaking venture, one thing is certain: they will continue to redefine the boundaries of what is possible in the world of fashion.

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Inside Louis Vuitton’s Extravagant Airport Lounge: A Luxurious Layover Experience

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Louis Vuitton, the iconic luxury fashion brand, has ventured into a new and unprecedented realm by opening an airport lounge at Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar. Known as the “Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno,” this unique space caters to first or business class guests traveling with Qatar Airways or those belonging to the Louis Vuitton clientele.

Helmed by renowned three-Michelin-starred French chef Yannick Alléno, the lounge offers a gastronomic experience like no other. Guests can indulge in Parisian viennoiseries, smoked fish platters with caviar, tea sandwiches stamped with Vuitton’s fleur monogram, and a range of exquisite dishes such as langoustine carpaccio, yuzu-flavored confit lamb shoulder, and pilaf rice with dried fruit and spices. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy expertly crafted cappuccinos with the iconic “LV” logo on the foam.

The Louis Vuitton Lounge is not only a culinary haven but also a visual delight. The space is adorned with designer furniture, including pieces from Louis Vuitton’s Objets Nomades collection. With India Mahdavi low tables, Paolo Lenti high tables, and Costela armchairs by Martin Eisler, the lounge exudes sophistication and elegance.

Upon entering the lounge, guests are greeted by a lush jungle-like ambiance, with abundant greenery and Quetzal bird mobiles hanging overhead. Flanking the doors are stacks of Louis Vuitton trunks, paying homage to the brand’s heritage and travel legacy. The intention behind the design is to create a welcoming environment that transcends time, ensuring all travelers feel at ease during their visit.

This innovative venture by Louis Vuitton comes at a time when airport lounges are often viewed as functional spaces rather than glamorous destinations. Hamad International Airport, known for its exceptional shopping experience, is ranked as the second-best airport in the world. As the hub for Qatar Airways, which has been consistently ranked as the world’s best airline, the airport attracts millions of travelers each year. The Louis Vuitton Lounge revives the glamour and allure of air travel, providing a luxurious layover experience that leaves a lasting impression.

With this audacious collaboration between fashion and aviation, Louis Vuitton is redefining luxury and hospitality. The lounge sets a new standard for travel experiences, where fashion, gastronomy, and design seamlessly intertwine. As airports evolve, this collaboration offers a glimpse into the future of travel, where each moment is curated to delight and inspire discerning globetrotters. The Louis Vuitton Lounge at Hamad International Airport represents the art of travel, symbolizing the enchantment that awaits modern travelers seeking a truly extraordinary journey.

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Summer Nails Sizzle: The Hottest Trends for Your Next Mani-Pedi

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Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new nail trends and colors, so why not try something bold and beautiful? This season’s nail trends are all about bright hues, playful patterns, and statement-making designs. Here are some of the top nail trends to try this summer.

1. Neon Colors

One of the biggest nail trends this summer is neon colors. From electric green to bright pink, these bold hues will add a pop of color to any outfit. Go for a full set of neon nails or add a pop of color to your favorite neutral shade.

2. Negative Space Nails

Negative space nails are a trend that’s been around for a while, but this summer it’s all about getting creative with your designs. Try a geometric pattern or a cute little fruit design for a playful and fun look.

3. Glitter and Sparkle

Summer is all about shimmer and shine, so it’s no surprise that glitter and sparkle are hot nail trends this season. Add some sparkle to your nails with a glitter topcoat or go all out with a full set of glitter nails.

4. Pastel Hues

Pastel hues are always popular in the summertime, and this year is no exception. Soft shades of lavender, peach, and baby blue are perfect for a subtle and sweet look.

5. Floral Designs

Floral designs are always in style, but they’re especially popular in the summer. From dainty little flowers to bold and colorful floral patterns, there are so many ways to incorporate this trend into your nail art.

6. Tie-Dye

Tie-dye is a trend that’s been making a comeback in fashion and beauty, and it’s the perfect way to add some retro vibes to your summer nail look. Try a rainbow tie-dye design or go for a more subdued look with a few pastel shades.

7. Animal Prints

Animal prints are another trend that’s been around for a while, but this summer it’s all about bold and bright colors. Leopard, zebra, and snake prints are all popular choices, and they’re the perfect way to add a little bit of edge to your summer nail look.

There you have it, some of the hottest nail trends to try this summer. Whether you prefer bold and bright colors or subtle pastel shades, there’s a trend for everyone. So why not experiment with some new nail art and make a statement this season?

 

 

 

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