TRAVEL

Why Crete is the digital detox destination you need

13/10/2024

As summer’s vibrant energy gracefully transitions into the calm embrace of Autumn, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort in Crete extends an invitation to travellers seeking the serenity of quiet travel and a much-needed digital detox. Nestled amidst the tranquil and unspoiled beauty of Crete, this resort promises an all-inclusive oasis of calm, ideal for those looking to reconnect with themselves amidst eye-catching landscapes. Autumn heralds a season of new beginnings and resets. The fast pace of daily life often leaves little room for the self-care we truly require. At Seaside A Lifestyle Resort, guests are welcomed to cocoon in comfort, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquillity. This sanctuary is perfect for experiencing the growing trend of wellness travel, particularly among those enamoured with the ‘wellness retreat aesthetic’, which has seen a significant rise in popularity. Here are a few compelling reasons to visit this luxurious resort in Crete, where you can create lifelong memories, experience heartfelt hospitality, and immerse yourself in relaxation and wellbeing, all while enjoying the resort’s dramatic views: Quiet Experiences From sunrise to sunset, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort offers visitors a serene escape where life slows down to a peaceful rhythm. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual connection, a path to self-love, or simply a break from the stresses of daily life, the resort provides a space that fosters peace and tranquillity. Begin your day with a journey to oneness at the resort’s Yoga Shala, a place designed to deepen the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Here, silence is cherished, allowing you to… Read More

New study unveils Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings

05/10/2024

By James Banham

In a nation steeped in history and architectural grandeur, a recent survey has unveiled a definitive list of Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings, capturing the hearts and imaginations of residents and tourists alike.

10 best pumpkin patches to visit in the UK this October

05/10/2024

By James Banham

As autumn paints the UK countryside in hues of gold and orange, the allure of pumpkin patches becomes irresistible for both families and avid Instagrammers. This October, capture the essence of the season by visiting some of the most photogenic pumpkin patches across the UK. From scenic landscapes to vibrant festivals, these locations not only offer the perfect backdrop for your autumn snaps but also provide a range of activities that ensure a day filled with fun and memorable experiences. 1. Cotswold Farm Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Leading the list with stunning countryside views, Cotswold Farm Park is a haven for those looking to capture the beauty of autumn. With 51,000 Instagram followers and 11,300 hashtags, its popularity is well-deserved. Beyond pumpkin picking, you can meet rare breed animals and explore interactive exhibits. The tractor rides and locally sourced dishes at the café add layers of charm to your visit, making it a quintessential day out. 2. Tulleys Farm, Crawley, West Sussex Tulleys Farm, a favorite with 42,300 Instagram mentions, offers a unique night-time experience with its ‘Pumpkin Nights’. The twinkling lights and live music provide an enchanting setting, perfect for photos. This venue is also famous for its Shocktober Fest, blending pumpkin picking with a thrilling twist, ensuring your Instagram feed will be as exciting as it is beautiful. 3. Garsons Farm, Esher, Surrey With its lush green backdrops and a score of 27,400 Instagram points, Garsons Farm is a dream for nature-filled photography. As a pick-your-own paradise, it allows you to harvest everything from… Read More

Sydney Harbour Bridge sunshine afternoon

New experience at Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Climb & unwind

29/07/2024

By James Banham

BridgeClimb Sydney stands out as a must-do adventure for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most iconic structures. Launched in October 1998, this experience promises an adrenaline rush and breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. With various climb options ranging from approximately $160 to $390, including special sunset climbs, participants are guided by experienced leaders who ensure safety and share fascinating stories about the bridge’s history and engineering. Designed to be manageable for participants aged eight to 100, BridgeClimb Sydney is a family-friendly activity catering to a wide range of fitness levels. Climbers are equipped with all necessary gear, including a climbing suit and harness, ensuring safety throughout the ascent. As they make their way up the bridge, climbers can expect awe-inspiring moments and opportunities to capture incredible photos of Sydney Harbour. For those looking to tick this world-class experience off their bucket list, booking directly through the official BridgeClimb website is recommended. BridgeClimb Sydney is more than just a climb; it’s an unforgettable journey providing a unique perspective on one of Australia’s greatest architectural marvels, leaving lasting memories for both local residents and visiting tourists. Now this year, they’re adding something new to their experience! BridgeClimb Sydney is taking things to new heights—literally and figuratively—with its latest offering, the “Climb & Unwind” package. In an exciting partnership with Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Sydney, this exclusive experience marries the thrill of scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge with the luxurious pampering of a high-end… Read More

Welcome to Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach

24/07/2024

By THE F

Discover the harmonious blend of comfort and adventure at Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach. Nestled along the stunning south coast of Mykonos, guests can embark on various explorations, from traditional kaiique rides to the archaeological wonders of Delos, or even charter a boat to the unspoiled waters of Rhenia. The around-the-clock concierge service is on hand to facilitate travel and dining reservations, suggest activities, and cater to special needs, aiming to ensure a hassle-free and memorable stay. Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, as part of the exclusive Myconian Collection, offers guests priority bookings at top-tier spas and restaurants, enriching their experience even further. The venue is ideal for special events, with its unique and picturesque setting promising unforgettable memories. The dedicated team is focused on tailoring experiences to align with guests’ wishes, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service. At Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, you are encouraged to slow down, relish every moment, and craft lasting memories in an environment that feels like a true home away from home. This sense of genuine hospitality and deep connection to the island’s heart defines Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, making it a tranquil haven and a unique gem in Mykonos.

Tag: mardi gras

What to expect this Sydney Mardi Gras 2024

MArdi Gras drag queen MARDI GRAS AFTERPARTY 24 FULL JORDAN MUNNS @jordankmunns 156

by James Banham

Posted: 11/11/2024

Get ready to paint the town rainbow as the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival returns with all its fabulous flair from 14 February to 2 March 2025. With its theme “FREE TO BE,” the festival is set to illuminate the city with a dazzling display of pride, culture, and community spirit, celebrating decades of progress while championing the individuality and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. Gil Beckwith, CEO of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, captures the essence of this year’s celebration: “Each year, Mardi Gras brings together people from across the globe for a vibrant celebration of community, visibility, and progress. The 2025 festival embodies this spirit, reflecting the resilience, creativity, and unity of our LGBTQIA+ communities. We are thrilled to welcome everyone to this year’s festivities.” Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO echoes the excitement, noting, “Mardi Gras is one of my favourite times of the year. Sydney truly sparkles with diversity, inclusion, and love proudly on show. We’re delighted to welcome people from around the world to our wonderful city – a place that embraces and celebrates everyone, where you are truly Free to Be.” With over 80 events on the agenda, this year’s festival promises a kaleidoscope of experiences, from the grand parade to intimate theatre performances. Signature events like the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade remain at the heart of the festival, with the newly revamped Taylor Square Takeover offering a fresh block party vibe for parade-goers. After a brief hiatus, Fair Day returns to… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: gay sydney, mardi gras, Sydney LGBT, What to expect Mardi Gras, what's on sydney

Mardi Gras wrap up for 2025

by James Banham

Updated: 03/03/2024

The vibrant and diverse streets of Sydney were illuminated with the spirit of pride and celebration as the 46th annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade took center stage on Saturday, 2 March. A staggering estimated 250,000 spectators flocked to Oxford St, Flinders St, and Anzac Parade, uniting in solidarity and bearing witness to a spectacular procession of over 12,000 participants who brought the night to life with their creativity, advocacy, and unapologetic pride under the theme “Our Future…”. Reflecting on the electrifying Parade, CEO of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Gil Beckwith, expressed, “Tonight’s Parade was a vibrant testament to the strength and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. As we marched under the banner of ‘Our Future…’, we not only honor the past 45 years of history and progress but also took a bold step toward shaping a more inclusive and diverse future.” Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Sydney’s role as a beacon for LGBTIQA+ communities, stating, “Sydney has always been a beacon for LGBTIQA+ communities and that pride is most spectacularly on show during Mardi Gras. This year’s March was another triumph of sequins and spirit.” Amid the celebration, the Parade also served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equality within the LGBTIQA+ communities. Mayor Moore reinforced this, noting, “These past few weeks have been particularly hard for our LGBTIQA+ communities but tonight we all came together for a wonderful celebration of queer love, culture, and struggle. When the biodegradable glitter settles, the fight… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: gay sydney, mardi gras, sydney mardi gras

Virgin Australia’s Mardi Gras flights

by James Banham

Updated: 03/03/2024

More than 500 travellers, including legendary drag performers and renowned celebrities, celebrated high in the skies onboard Virgin Australia and United Airlines’ dedicated Pride Flight services. These special flights took off from San Francisco, Melbourne, and Brisbane, landing in Sydney just in time for Australia’s premier LGBTQIA+ celebration. Upon arrival, festivities continued as passengers were greeted by Tinder Glambassador Danni Issues and later joined the vibrant Landing Party at The Beresford, featuring performances that included a Virgin Australia dance troupe and a soul-stirring ballad by Hugh Sheridan. In a generous show of support for the LGBTQIA+ community, Virgin Australia announced that $30 from every Pride Flight ticket sold would be donated to Minus18, a charity devoted to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. Similarly, United Airlines committed to a $125K USD donation to The Trevor Foundation as part of their annual contribution to LGBTQIA+ causes. The flights themselves were a spectacle of celebration and inclusivity. Virgin Australia’s Pride Flight from Melbourne to Sydney, numbered VA1978 in homage to the year Sydney hosted its inaugural Mardi Gras Parade, along with the Brisbane to Sydney VA2017 flight – commemorating the year same-sex marriage was legalised in Australia – included pre-flight departure parties complete with drag performances, celebrity appearances, mid-air entertainment, and endless refreshments. The San Francisco to Sydney Pride Flight, a codeshare flight VA8005 with United Airlines, offered an international bridge to the festivities. Passengers on these flights were entertained by iconic figures such as RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under star Maxi Shield and the beloved Melbourne drag duo The… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: mardi gras, virgin australia, Virgin Australia Mardi Gras flights

G Flip and Uber Pool for Mardi Gras

by James Banham

Updated: 03/03/2024

Get ready to ride with pride this Mardi Gras parade day, because Aussie singer, drummer, and queer icon G Flip is riding around festivities exclusively via Uber Pool on March 2nd, and you could be in with a chance of sharing a ride with them. To celebrate Mardi Gras, Uber has teamed up with global superstar G Flip, giving Sydneysiders the chance to share a ride with them to the festival. Fresh off setting the record for the most entries in the Hottest 100 ever, G Flip is ready to start the Mardi Gras party by giving a few lucky riders the Uber Pool ride of a lifetime as they head out to parades, parties, and other festival events. For one day only, G Flip will be riding around Sydney in the queerest Uber vehicle, decked out with rainbow good vibes and offering everything you need for the perfect Mardi Gras pre-game. Share a karaoke classic with the Aussie singer-songwriter as you share the journey and impress them with your renditions of their iconic hits as you get pumped for the night ahead. To be in with a chance to ride with G Flip, just register your interest here and tell us why you’d love to be part of G Flip’s pride ride. G Flip said: “I’m so stoked to be back in Australia for Mardi Gras! It’s one of my favourite days of the year. I’m going to be hopping in a few Uber Pool rides on the day of the parade, so stay… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: G flip, gay sydney, Gay Uber, mardi gras, sydney gay, sydney mardi gras

Mardi Gras Debutante Ball in Sydney

by THE F

Updated: 03/03/2024

On Thursday, Kinselas Hotel in Darlinghurst set the stage for a momentous occasion as it hosted the inaugural Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker. This event marked the first steps of Mardi Gras first-timers as they ventured to join their community for the iconic celebration. Eight first-timers from the LGBTQIA+ community had the opportunity to share their stories and win tickets to attend the Debutante Ball, making it an unforgettable experience for them. As they walked the Gold Carpet, these individuals debuted proudly, warmly welcomed by festival custodians, the community, and the trailblazers who have paved the way for them. The evening unfolded at the iconic Darlinghurst venue, where the Mardi Gras Debutante Ball became a fabulous celebration of all queer identities, truly honoring the progress, strength, and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. The highlight of the Ball was none other than Natalie Bassingthwaighte, who made her debut for her first Mardi Gras since openly identifying as queer last year. Her presence added an extra layer of significance to the event, symbolizing the ongoing journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and pride within the community. The Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance, serving as a testament to the progress made and the unity embraced within the LGBTQIA+ community. It was a night of joy, empowerment, and celebration, representing the collective strides towards a more diverse and welcoming society. As the festivities unfolded, it became clear that this groundbreaking event has redefined the traditional concept of the Debutante Ball,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: gay sydney, mardi gras, Mardi Gras Debutante Ball

Queer art after hours in Sydney

by THE F

Updated: 23/02/2024

Get ready to mark your calendars because on Wednesday, February 28th, the crowd-favorite Queer Art After Hours event is set to make a vibrant return to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. This year’s edition promises an exciting lineup that has just been unveiled, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! Renowned as one of the most eagerly anticipated annual events at the Art Gallery, Queer Art After Hours has continually stood out as a highlight among the free offerings of the Mardi Gras festival. It serves as a powerful platform for LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, and storytellers, bringing the community together for a night of celebration that honors diversity, resilience, and creativity within the Queer community. In light of the recent cancellation of Fair Day, this year’s Queer Art After Hours aims to keep the party vibes alive with a spectacular FREE offering. Visitors can look forward to a kaleidoscope of interactive pop-up performances, installations, workshops, and DJ sets, all while embarking on their own unique art adventure exploring the exhibitions and collections on this unforgettable evening. The 2024 lineup is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a diverse range of experiences. From the thought-provoking video and spoken word installation “Queers as in Crip” to performances delving into butch and leather culture in “Dyke Vignettes,” the stage will come alive with fierce and fabulous drag performances by Miss First Nations queens Nova Gina, Josie Baker, and Shaniqua Empirè. Additionally, visitors can expect a captivating performance inspired by the occasional presence of pigeons in the… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, GIVEAWAYS & WIN, LGBTIQ

Tags: gay sydney, LGBTIQA, mardi gras, Sydney art gallery

What’s on this Sydney Mardi Gras

by James Banham

Updated: 25/03/2024

Get ready to immerse yourself in a whirlwind of vibrant events as Mardi Gras sweeps through Sydney. From dazzling dress-up soirees to exhilarating drag performances, here’s a sneak peek into what’s in store from 16th February to 3rd March. Unmissable highlights: Caviar Bumps and Frozen Vodka Indulge in an extraordinary experience as Applejack will have the special Mardi Gras cocktail menu running at The Butler, Forrester’s and Taphouse. Drag Bingo & Caviar ‘Bumps’ Join drag royalty Dakota Fann’ee for a delightful session of Drag Bingo at Bar Morris, featuring sass, sparkle, sangria, and a delectable snacks and shares menu by Head Chef Rosy Scatigna on 2nd March. Glitter Me Up Forrester’s is all set to add some serious shine and sparkle to major event days throughout the festival with FREE POP-UP GLITTER STATIONS presented by Archie Rose. Don’t miss out on the glitter extravaganza at Forry’s on 3 dates, including Fair Day, Bondi Beach Party Day, and Parade Day. Slip & Slay Bottomless Experience love and celebration at Taphouse with the launch of Slip & Slay Bottomless—an all-day menu offering Chinese tasting platters and a 2-hour beverage package featuring craft beers, wines, prosecco, and a frozen cocktail on arrival, starting from 15th February. Additionally, indulge in an extravagant rooftop brunch hosted by drag Queens, Dominique Topp and Danni Issues on 24th February. Drag Trivia & Bingo Join in the electrifying events at Woolly Bay Hotel, including Drag Bingo and Drag Trivia hosted by the legendary queen Felicity Frockaccino. Get ready for a classic game of… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, LGBTIQ

Tags: gay sydney, mardi gras, Mardi Gras guide, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, sydney mardi gras, What's on Mardi Gras, what's on sydney

Adam Lambert headlining Sydney Mardi Gras

by THE F

Updated: 03/03/2024

As the countdown to the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras draws to a fervent pace, a seismic announcement has set the community abuzz: Grammy-nominated artist Adam Lambert is poised to headline the extravagance. This revelation has sent ripples of excitement through the vibrant center of Sydney, promising an event that will etch itself into the annals of LGBTQIA+ celebration. Adam Lambert, a vocal powerhouse whose career has continually intersected with activism and advocacy for the community, leads a constellation of over 150 artists announced for the Festival’s centerpiece events. The anticipation reaches a zenith with the potentials of the undisputedly magnetic international superstar taking the stage. Mardi Gras 2024 is engineered to surpass all former precedents, boasting a diverse array of talent that includes legends like CeCe Peniston, revered for anthems like “Finally,” and the captivating Slayyyter, set to deliver an Australian-exclusive performance at the Bondi Beach Party. Echoing Lambert’s unparalleled influence in the music industry, a plethora of adored Australian acts like Cub Sport and MAY-A will grace various stages, enveloping the Festival in an eclectic blanket of musical and performance artistry. With such a cornucopia of stars lined up, Sydney’s Mardi Gras stands as a beacon of not only inclusive celebration but also an exhibition of phenomenal talent and LGBTQIA+ excellence. This year contends to be a riveting display of culture and pride, where the Hordern Pavilion is to transform into a warehouse haven of contemporary and Chicago house vibes, thanks to the charisma of Adam Lambert and the likes of… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: Adam Lambert, mardi gras, Sydney Mardi Gras Adam Lambert

Mardi Gras party at the parade on Hyde Park

by James Banham

Updated: 03/03/2024

Step inside the wonder of Sydney’s most vibrant prelude to the legendary festival—the PRE-GAME MARDI GRAS PARTY at Pullman Sydney Hyde Park is the place to kickstart your celebration in style. Unleash your spirit, UN-HYDE YOUR PRIDE, and revel in an evening where the world truly is your playground. They’re calling all fun-loving souls to level up your Mardi Gras experience; don’t just join the parade, lead it with flamboyance and panache! As the sun dips below the horizon on Saturday, 2nd March 2024, prepare for an extravaganza from 5pm to 9pm. Enjoy the luxury of first-class entertainment, free flowing drinks, delicious roaming bites, and the hottest DJs setting the mood for an evening brimming with good vibes. And remember, part of our allure is location, location, location—you’ve got front row access to the parade’s radiant beginning. The time to hesitate is over! Secure your ticket today with our FIRST RELEASE at $229—because why wait when you can ensure your spot at this spectacular gathering? Remember, prices ascend with each release, and you’ll want to be part of the most fabulous Mardi Gras party in Sydney. So dress to impress, rally your friends, and let’s make memories that will sparkle long past the last float has passed. Let’s make this Mardi Gras one for the history books together because when it comes to celebrating love and equality, we don’t just party, we soar. Book here

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: mardi gras, Mardi Gras parties, Sydney Gay Lsbian Mardi Gras parties, sydney mardi gras

Sydney Mardi Gras’ groundbreaking 2024 program: Our Future

by James Banham

Posted: 11/11/2023

Australia’s most vibrant and inclusive celebration, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, is set to return from 16 February to 3 March 2024 with a spectacular program. The festival will charge into our future with its biggest and boldest program yet, featuring over 100 electrifying community events, dance parties, and performances. The 2024 festival aims to connect the past, present, and future, celebrating 45 years of Sydney Mardi Gras history, while illuminating the path to a dazzling future. The festival will echo the voices of our communities, champion progress, and instigate impactful change. The theme for 2024, ’Our Future,’ is brought to life through a creative campaign that reimagines tarot cards as celebrations of local LGBTQIA+ trailblazers, from HIV+ campaigners to trans and gender-diverse icons. The campaign is a testament to an unwavering commitment to representation and a call to imagine a bright future for all. A few new and major events of 2024 include the Bondi Beach Party, the Ultra Violet party for LGBTQIA+ women, Festival First Light, a city-wide Welcome to Country ceremony, Hot Trans Summer, a total trans and gender-diverse takeover of Glass Island, and many more. Sydney Mardi Gras celebrates not only the LGBTQIA+ community but the diversity and vibrancy that Sydney represents as Australia’s only truly global city. Visitors can also explore renowned galleries, museums and theatres, and the city’s thriving arts, music, and culture scene. Tickets for the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras go on sale at 10am on Monday 20 November. Visit www.mardigras.org.au to browse… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: mardi gras, sydney gay lesbian mardi gras, sydney mardi gras

ARTS & CULTURE

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More

Why rush to National Art School postgrad show

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Step into the vibrant world of the arts at the National Art School (NAS) as it proudly unveils the 2024 Postgrad Show, a spectacular showcase of over 400 works by Australia’s next generation of emerging artists. Open to the public until 17 November 2024, this annual exhibition has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting gallerists, collectors, and art enthusiasts eager to discover fresh talent. The Postgrad Show serves as a launchpad for these budding artists, featuring the final bodies of work by the Master of Fine Art (MFA) graduates. This year’s exhibition offers an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, collage, 3D printing, performance, photography, drawing, and ceramics. Each piece is a testament to the diverse themes being explored—ranging from natural and digital ecosystems to identity, the Anthropocene, philosophy, and personal narratives. Ceramics take centre stage with artists like Benjamin Akuila, who delves into themes of construction, authenticity, and plasticity, informed by his Tongan heritage. His work offers a compelling exploration of queer and diasporic identity through hybrid cultural narratives. Meanwhile, Chrystie Longworth uses ceramic forms to navigate femininity, identity, and domesticity, drawing inspiration from historical subversive messages crafted by women in textiles. Her work, with its tactile terracotta and pigment surfaces, invites viewers to experience a subtle play of light and texture. From the drawing studios, Quan Zhu Ma marries traditional Chinese philosophy with contemporary practices, using innovative materials like heated charcoal and ash. His work reimagines traditional ink art, creating a fusion that resonates… Read More

Christmas music treat in Sydney: Handel’s Messiah returns

11/11/2024

By James Banham

This December, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs are set to enchant audiences once again with their much-loved Messiah concerts, a cherished Sydney Christmas tradition that has spanned over a century.