Category: LIFESTYLE

New gallery in Sydney: A Secondary Eye opens

Updated: 17/04/2024

Sydney, Australia is set to welcome a profound addition to its art scene as A Secondary Eye announces the launch of a new gallery space nestled in the arts district of Woollahra. Opening its doors on Friday, 3 May 2024, this new venture promises a fresh perspective on Australian Indigenous and contemporary art. Founded in 2020 by Jesse-Jack De Deyne, a seasoned specialist in the secondary market for Australian Indigenous art, and Boris Cornelissen, formerly of Sotheby’s London and Hong Kong, A Secondary Eye has quickly established itself as a key player in the art world. Their focus on developing the secondary market for art and collectibles in Australia has led to the exhibition and sale of works by prominent artists like Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Sidney Nolan, and Fred Williams, among others. The gallery’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with several pieces entering the collections of Australia’s most prestigious art institutions. Strategically located in Queen Street, a spot historically linked with the crème de la crème of secondary market art dealers, the new gallery is poised to continue its tradition of excellence. The inaugural exhibition will shine a spotlight on Rover Thomas, a luminary and trailblazer in the Australian art landscape. Known for his significant influence on the East Kimberley school of painting, Thomas’s works are lauded for their modernist abstraction and profound connection to ancestral land and Indigenous life. The exhibition, titled “Rover: Master of the Kimberley”, marks the first solo presentation of Thomas’s work in Sydney in nearly two decades. It will showcase… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: A Secondary Eye, art gallery, New Sydney art gallery, Sydney art gallery

Yarraville Victoria Hotel in Melbourne is back open

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

The iconic Victoria Hotel in Yarraville has proudly reopened its doors, unveiling a much-anticipated $2.5 million renovation. This transformation introduces a brand-new beer garden and a delightful children’s play area, enhancing its reputation as a family-friendly destination in the region. For the first time in its history, the pub now boasts an expansive beer garden that can accommodate up to 170 guests. This newly designed space features comfortable picnic table seating among lush greenery, a dedicated outdoor bar, and an impressive children’s playground. These additions solidify The Victoria Hotel’s status as the go-to venue for family-friendly dining in the community, designed with the needs and desires of its patrons in mind. Venue Manager Anthony Cook expressed his excitement about the renovation, stating, “It’s exciting to finally open the new beer garden and kids’ play area for our patrons. This well-deserved renovation brings modernised features, tailored spaces for all ages, and so much more to our local, meaning it will continue to be a space for all to enjoy.” In addition to the beer garden, the renovation brings a refreshed bistro and a brand-new adjoining kids’ play area, replete with interactive features to keep the young ones engaged. The children’s area is a miniature representation of Yarraville itself, including a Yarraville Sun Theatre feature wall, an interactive train & kiosk, reading nooks, tech corners, drawing stations, a soft play area, and much more. The culinary experience at The Victoria Hotel has also been elevated, with a refreshed menu featuring delicious share-style plates, pizzas, and pub classics,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: Best Melbourne pubs, Melbourne pubs, Victoria HotelYarraville pubs

Momentous moment in art at National Gallery London

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

In 2025, the art world will witness a remarkable event at the National Gallery as “Siena: The Rise of Painting 1300?1350” opens its doors in spring, marking the 200th anniversary of the institution. This exhibition promises an unprecedented reunion of paintings by some of the most celebrated Italian artists of the 14th century, artworks that have been scattered across the globe for centuries. Highlighting this unique collection are masterpieces in gold ground, many originally part of larger compositions, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the innovative spirit of Western painting tradition from this era. The spotlight of the exhibition is the coming together of several panels from the revolutionary double-sided altarpiece, the Maestà, painted by Duccio di Buoninsegna for the cathedral in Siena. Recognized as the first double-sided altarpiece in Western art, this narrative shift in art will be showcased along with other significant pieces from the ensemble. Notably, the National Gallery’s panels from the Maestà will be reunited with works like “Christ and the Woman of Samaria” from the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid, and “The Calling of the Apostles Peter and Andrew” from the National Gallery of Art, Washington DC. Another focal point is the reunion of the Orsini Polyptych by Simone Martini, a folding piece created for private devotion, likely for Cardinal Napoleone Orsini. Dispersed between prestigious institutions – the Louvre in Paris, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, and the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin – the exhibition will bring together all six panels for a rare presentation. Besides these reunifications, the exhibition… Read More

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: art, Art blog, Best galleries London, London art, London blog, national gallery, National Gallery London

Melbourne Theatre Company’s new show: The Almighty Sometimes

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

Kendall Feaver’s illuminating portrait of a mother-daughter relationship, The Almighty Sometimes, will grace the stage of Southbank Theatre, with previews beginning on 15 April. This piece unfurls with biting humour and fierce honesty, a poignant coming-of-age story that meticulously explores the tribulations of adolescence entwined with the complexities of growing up under the shadow of mental illness. Authored by the talented Australian playwright Kendall Feaver, the play has received acclaim and recognition, winning the Judges Award at the 2015 Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting – Europe’s premier playwriting competition. It has also secured both the Victorian and New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards, earmarking Feaver as a distinguished voice in contemporary theatre. In a new production helmed by Hannah Goodwin, audiences will see Nadine Garner (known for ABC’s Savage River) and Max McKenna (Muriel’s Wedding The Musical) bringing to life the roles of Renee and Anna, the mother-daughter duo at the heart of this narrative. They are joined by Louisa Mignone (The Twelve) and Karl Richmond (The Inheritance), adding to the play’s dynamic ensemble. The narrative arcs around 18-year-old Anna, who discovers her old stories, unveiling a vibrant imagination that seems alien yet thrilling. This discovery becomes the catalyst for Anna’s quest to redefine her identity beyond the mental health label that has dominated her life. Yet, this quest is met with resistance from her mother, her boyfriend, and even her therapist, setting the stage for intense familial and personal conflict. Feaver’s script resonates with the ongoing discussions surrounding mental health, capturing the heart of these… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

Tags: melbourne theatre, melbourne theatre company, theatre

Rugby on the water at Sydney’s Darling Harbour

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

This April, Sydney’s iconic Darling Harbour is set to host the adrenaline-pumping BSc Energy Aqua Rugby Festival, Australia’s only floating rugby tournament, for its thrilling third season. From Thursday 11th to Saturday 13th April, a 30 x 30 meter floating pontoon will become the battleground for a unique three-day rugby fiesta unlike any other. With an intriguing mix of sport and spectacle, the festival promises rugby action with a twist — players battling it out on a floating pitch, with the Sydney Harbour waters waiting to receive anyone who dares to take the plunge off the pitch. The Aqua Rugby Festival is not just about the sport; it’s an event that encapsulates the Australian spirit of camaraderie and celebration. Sydneysiders and visitors alike can witness a star-studded lineup of players showcasing their skills, making spectacular dives and crash-tackles, all in pursuit of scoring that elusive try. This quirky version of rugby not only pays homage to the traditional sport but also brings a fresh, exhilarating twist that is sure to captivate Australians and visitors. For those seeking an elevated experience, the festival offers an exclusive VIP package. Imagine watching the game from a luxurious cabana sponsored by Bollinger Champagne, with bottomless champagne and a dedicated staff member at your beck and call. This ultra-luxe VIP area is the perfect vantage point for indulging in the delectable offerings from Nick’s Seafood, all while soaking in the best views of the action. Priced at $440 per person, it’s an opportunity to feel like rugby royalty, even if… Read More

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Rugby, Sydney rugby, Water rugby

Inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival launches this May

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

Australia’s spirits scene is on the brink of an exhilarating elevation with the announcement of the inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival. Set to unfold from 10-12 May 2024 at the splendid Overseas Passenger Terminal, Sydney Cove, this landmark event promises to be a confluence of spirits enthusiasts, industry experts, and world-renowned brands. With over 148 spirit brands on display, the festival is shaping up to be a monumental celebration of craftsmanship and culture in the world of spirits. Among the festival’s highlights are two new masterclasses designed to intrigue and delight. The first is an exclusive exploration of Planteray Sealander Rum, led by the distinguished Grazia di Franco. Participants will be taken on a flavorful voyage through the unique rum profiles of Barbados, Mauritius, and Fiji, uncovering the nuanced tastes and traditions that define each. The second is a celebratory Espresso Martini masterclass on Mother’s Day, offered by Kendor Distillery. This engaging session offers a joyful blend of coffee culture and cocktail craft, making it an ideal gift to share with the remarkable mothers in your life. The Sydney Spirits Festival is more than a gathering; it is an immersive experience that extends beyond tastings and masterclasses. Industry legends, including Tasmanian whisky pioneer Bill Lark and bourbon aficionado Gee David from Buffalo Trace Distillery, will share their insights and stories, enriching the festival with their profound knowledge and passion for spirit-making. The event also caters to the gastronomically adventurous, with an array of international cuisines and unique offerings like HUGO Vodka tastings paired with a Caviar… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: About Sydney Spirits Festival, cocktails, Spirits Festival, Sydney spirits festival

Jac+Jack have a new range of quilts with Two Good Co.

quilt blanket jac JackJJ TGC B1G1 Blankets 4

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

Social enterprise Two Good Co. has once again partnered with the esteemed fashion brand, Jac+Jack, to unveil a special edition quilted blanket collection aimed at providing warmth and comfort to those who need it the most. This remarkable collaboration, marking their second liaison, continues to champion an innovative “buy one, give one” scheme. With every purchase from this line, an identical blanket is donated to a woman finding solace in a shelter, in a heartwarming attempt to extend support and nurturing to those in distress. Rob Caslick, the visionary founder and CEO of Two Good Co., passionately expressed the foundational belief underpinning this initiative, stating, “We believe that love and respect can change the course of someone’s life. All of our Good Things are designed to remind women that they are worthy and loved, and this collection is no exception.” This sentiment is wholeheartedly endorsed by their partners at Jac+Jack, with co-founder Lisa Dempsey adding a personal touch by sharing her hopes for the recipients, emphasizing that these blankets should serve as a symbol of care, equality, and the sheer importance of every individual. The collection draws inspiration from the traditional Indian Razai quilts, employing the unique technique of Kantha to stitch together layers of incredibly soft, muslin-like cotton, ensuring optimal warmth. The choice of an exaggerated quilting pattern alongside a classic colour palette of pale grey and off-white, characteristic of Jac+Jack, infuses a modern twist into these time-honoured methods. Each blanket is presented in a quirky, dip-dyed muslin bag available in either lilac or… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, INTERIORS, RETAIL, STYLE

Tags: jac jack, Jac+Jack, quilt

Why coffee matters this Mother’s Day

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

Mother’s Day is a special occasion that calls for a celebration of the unparalleled bond between a mother and her children. While flowers and heartfelt messages are traditional gifts, why not surprise her with an exceptional coffee experience at home this year? Coffee, after all, is more than just a beverage; it’s a moment of pleasure that many mothers cherish in their daily ritual. Mitch Monaghan, Nespresso Coffee Ambassador, shares invaluable insights on how to elevate this daily coffee ritual, particularly on Mother’s Day. When buying a coffee machine to gift your mother, the paramount concern should be whether it can produce quality-tasting coffee. According to Monaghan, the perfect cup starts with the machine’s capability to deliver consistently good coffee, which is where a coffee capsule machine, like Nespresso’s Vertuo Pop, shines. It does away with the intricacies of coffee making, ensuring every cup is a perfect brew. The use of sustainably sourced Nespresso coffee, sealed in recyclable aluminium capsules, further guarantees that each cup is fresh and full of aroma. Ease of use is another critical factor. A machine that operates at the touch of a button and offers various cup sizes can adapt to any coffee preference your mother might have throughout the day. For those mothers who appreciate a hands-off approach in the kitchen without compromising on the quality of their coffee, the Vertuo Lattissima could be the ideal choice, handling milk preparation seamlessly. For the environmentally conscious mother, the sustainability of the coffee machine is a significant consideration. Nespresso’s precision design… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, GIFT GUIDE, MOTHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDES

Tags: coffee, Mitch Monaghan, mother's day, nespresso, Nespresso Australia

Carmen is coming to Sadler’s Wells in London

Carlos Acostas Carmen Cristina Lanandez 5

by James Banham

Updated: 04/04/2024

In an event that harmoniously blends tradition with contemporary flair, Sadler’s Wells Theatre unfolds its red carpet for Acosta Danza, as they present the UK premiere of Carlos Acosta’s version of Carmen from the 2nd to the 6th of July, 2024. This adaptation by the dance legend Carlos Acosta gives a new lease of life to Georges Bizet’s opera, stirring the soul nearly two centuries after Prosper Mérimée penned the original story. Carlos Acosta himself steps onto the stage, not just as a creator but as a performer, embodying ‘The Bull’ – a symbol of fate and destiny. This role, specially crafted by Acosta, emerges from his deep-seated desire to encapsulate the essence of the narrative while marking his departure from the Royal Ballet. His rendition of Carmen holds onto the timeless and universal appeal of the tale yet introduces a fresh perspective by minimising the setting to its core elements. Joining forces with Acosta Danza are Principal dancers Laura Rodriguez, Enrique Corrales, and Alejandro Silva, alongside guest stars from the Birmingham Royal Ballet – Yaoqian Shang, Javier Rojas, and Lachlan Monaghan, who will portray Carmen, Don José, and Escamillo, respectively. This cast embodies the spirit of the characters they portray, bringing to life the tragic tale of love, passion, and jealousy. Carmen’s story has always captivated the imagination of many, attracting a variety of choreographers such as Marius Petipa and Roland Petit to its fiery core. The opera’s enchanting melodies like the ‘Toreador Song’ and ‘Habanera’ continue to resonate, underscoring the opera’s enduring popularity… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, DANCE, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, OPERA

Tags: carmen, Dance in London, London Arts blog, London blog, Sadler's Wells, Sadlers Wells London, See Carmen London

Sydney’s 71st annual film festival is back

by James Banham

Posted: 04/04/2024

The 71st Sydney Film Festival, set for 5-16 June 2024, has unveiled an exciting preview of 17 new films and events, offering a tantalising glimpse ahead of the complete program reveal on Wednesday, 8 May. Festival Director Nashen Moodley highlighted that this year’s lineup explores a rich tapestry of human experience, ranging from gripping true stories to innovative fictional narratives and hybrid films that blur the lines between reality and imagination. With resilience emerging as a central theme, the Festival promises a diverse array of films that promise to engage, challenge, and inspire audiences. Among the initial selection are two Australian world premieres that are generating significant buzz. In Vitro marks a highly anticipated sci-fi mystery thriller directed by Will Howarth and Tom McKeith, featuring Ashley Zukerman in a futuristic tale set on a remote cattle farm. In The Pool, directed by Ian Darling, offers a poignant cinematic exploration of a year at the iconic Bondi Icebergs, capturing the essence of this beloved location and its community. Notably, directors Howarth, McKeith, and Darling will be present at the Festival to introduce their films. From across the Tasman, Rachel House makes her directorial debut with The Mountain, a poignant tale of adventure and friendship amidst New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, executive produced by Taika Waititi. This film, eligible for the prestigious First Nations Award, promises to be a highlight of the Festival. The international selection includes notable festival prize-winners like The Rye Horn, Green Border by legendary filmmaker Agnieszka Holland, and Pepe, a unique narrative featuring a… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, FEATURES

Tags: Best Sydney movies, film festival, Sydney Film Festival, Sydney films, Sydney movies

ARTS & CULTURE

4 reasons to get excited for ‘Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada’s at Sadler’s Wells

11/04/2024

By James Banham

This exceptional triple bill showcases the extraordinary talents of three distinguished Canadian choreographers: Crystal Pite, Emma Portner, and James Kudelka, promising an unforgettable journey through the world of contemporary ballet.