TRAVEL

Colosseum Rome 11 Gladiator Icons Airbnb Credit Christopher Anderson

Face your Gladiator II destiny with strength and honor at the Colosseum

17/11/2024

Step into the annals of history and embrace your inner warrior with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become a gladiator at the Roman Colosseum. This unique experience invites you to channel the strength and honour of ancient warriors as you step into the iconic arena known for epic battles and legendary tales. For the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum is offering modern-day adventurers the chance to don historically accurate gladiator armour and partake in thrilling challenges that test both skill and courage. As you enter the sacred grounds, you’ll follow in the footsteps of victorious fighters, your destiny shaped by your prowess in battle. The experience begins at sunset, as a patron leads you into the candlelit Colosseum, a sight few have witnessed in modern times. Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for combat. Here, you’ll suit up in armour that reflects your chosen gladiator style—be it murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius, or contrarete. Choose your path wisely, for your fate in battle depends on it. As you traverse the torch-lit passages, imagine the footsteps of Maximus and countless other warriors echoing through history. Witness seasoned gladiators clash in a symphony of swords and shields, and prepare yourself for the challenge that awaits. Fuel your body with a selection of modest victuals—grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts—ensuring you’re battle-ready. Engage in combat training under the watchful eye of a summa rudis, your fate determined by your performance in the arena. Will you rise to the occasion and taste the sweetness… Read More

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Why Egypt should be on top of your travel list

17/11/2024

By James Banham

Embarking on a journey to Egypt is like stepping into a living history book, where ancient wonders and vibrant culture intertwine seamlessly. At the heart of this enchanting destination lies the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a must-visit for any traveller seeking to delve deep into the country’s rich heritage. Situated on the illustrious Giza Plateau, the GEM stands proudly near the iconic Pyramids of Giza, offering breathtaking views and a unique cultural experience. As one of the largest and most modern museums in the world, it promises an immersive exploration of Egypt’s past. Currently in its soft opening phase, visitors have the rare chance to explore its extensive artifact galleries and exhibition halls, with the highly anticipated King Tutankhamun galleries soon to follow. Beyond the museum, the Giza Plateau itself is a treasure trove of history. Be sure to visit the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids, where you can marvel at the engineering feats that have stood the test of time. For a more comprehensive experience, consider a camel ride across the desert sands at sunset, offering an unparalleled vantage point of these ancient structures. No trip to Egypt would be complete without wandering through the bustling streets of Cairo. Dive into the vibrant bazaars of Khan el-Khalili, where the aroma of spices wafts through the air and artisans display their intricate crafts. Explore the historic heart of Islamic Cairo, home to stunning mosques and ancient streets that echo with stories of the past. For a touch of tranquillity, take a day trip to the… Read More

Why Crete is the digital detox destination you need

13/10/2024

By James Banham

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

Tag: sydney restaurants

Where to eat in Sydney when you’re feeling fancy

by James Banham

Posted: 04/11/2023

At Aria and North Bondi Fish, there’s a whirl of exciting activity as we prepare for the end of the year. North Bondi Fish (NBF) has reintroduced their much-loved takeaway menu, perfect for savouring as you enjoy the sun-soaked Bondi sands. You can indulge in a variety of delightful dishes, including the daily selection of sashimi with wasabi, pickled ginger & soy, and the NBF fish taco with cabbage, chipotle and green tomato. Not to overlook, classic fish and chips and the NBF fish burger. On top of this, NBF presents Seaside Cocktails of the World, an exquisite collection of refreshing cocktails that will transport your senses to sun-drenched shores around the globe. Every weekend, you can let loose to the tunes of Sydney’s finest DJs, as you enjoy spicy margaritas and fresh fish in the golden hour at NBF. Over at Aria, weekday lunches are a luxurious affair. Enjoy the most beautiful views of Sydney Harbour as you indulge in dishes such as sweet corn agnolotti with preserved truffle, potato & cured egg yolk, and blue eye cod paired with cauliflower, poblano & macadamia. Aria also offers a pre-theatre dining experience every evening until 6pm, curated for guests to indulge before a show at the neighbouring Sydney Opera House. The New Year’s Eve celebrations at Aria promise to be an unforgettable experience. With two sittings, an early evening dinner from 5pm and a main event from 7.30pm, the evening will offer stunning floor to ceiling window views of Sydney Harbour. So, whether you’re at… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: aria sydney, best restaurants sydney, North Bondi Fish Sydney, Restaurants with a view, sydney restaurants

Experience the Culinary Excellence at Alfie’s: Sydney’s Premier Steakhouse and Bar

by James Banham

Posted: 18/10/2023

Alfie’s, a game changer in the Sydney restaurant scene, is now open. Reimagining the steakhouse model, this new venue from Liquid & Larder (the minds behind Bistecca, The Gidley, The Rover) serves up high-quality steak with an injection of charm and swagger. Alfie’s aims to disrupt the CBD’s trend of American steakhouses, offering an affordable, premium alternative. James Bradey, co-founder and director of Liquid and Larder, claims they are breaking the mould with Alfie’s, offering their signature high-quality food and drink in a fast-paced, vibrant setting. The restaurant, located on Bligh Street, is styled after the edgy underbelly of East London and offers a full sensory experience. The menu, curated by executive chef Pip Pratt and head chef Matt Thomson, is executed to perfection, featuring dishes like a $38, 220g Riverine sirloin, wet and dry aged on site for maximum flavour, and guaranteed to grace your table within 15 minutes of ordering. Side dishes designed to complement the perfect cut include Alfie’s bubble and squeak slaw, roast mushrooms, fire-roasted baby carrots, and hot chips with chip shop curry sauce. For the wine enthusiasts, Group Sommelier Kyle Poole’s list is filled with organic and sustainable classics. And for the early finishers, there’s a rotisserie ‘Beefetta’ special, Alfie’s take on porchetta, slowly cooked for five hours each day and available from 5pm each night. The striking bar is a destination in its own right, offering a daily happy hour from 4-6pm, with DJs spinning old UK grime and hip hop Wednesday to Saturday from 6-10pm. The drinks… Read More

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

Tags: Alfie's, Alfies Sydney, Best Sydney restaurant, New Sydney restaurant, sydney restaurants

The Ambry Sydney: worth a visit?

by James Banham

Posted: 16/10/2023

With its grand opening, The Ambry is set to redefine the Eastern Suburbs dining scene with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. From the moment you step through the grand glass frontage, you are enveloped in a world of culinary delights and an atmosphere of grandeur. The inviting lounge area and central bar present a myriad of choices for relaxation, whether you wish to enjoy a pint, a glass of wine, or indulge in a classic cocktail concoction from the impressive bar menu. Chef Carlo Della Sala, a native of Italy, expertly crafts each dish with a perfect blend of traditional Italian flavours and the finest Australian ingredients. The result is a gastronomic journey that takes you through a repertoire of club classics and Italian-inspired delicacies that tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. The Ambry not only promises an unforgettable dining experience but also a memorable journey that transcends beyond the meal. So whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a festive celebration or a casual night out, The Ambry guarantees to leave an indelible impression that lingers long after the meal is over. Experience the extraordinary transformation of the Eastern Suburbs culinary scene with The Ambry at Waverley Greens. Come, join us for a culinary journey that is as unforgettable as the view. We look forward to crafting memorable experiences with you in this haven for all occasions. With The Ambry, the culinary scene of the Eastern Suburbs is not just poised for transformation; it has arrived. More info… Read More

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

Tags: Ambry, best sydney restaurants, sydney restaurants

Peruvian in Sydney: welcome Warike to Surry Hills

by James Banham

Posted: 19/08/2023

In the energetic culinary enclave of Surry Hills, there exists an intriguing gastronomic journey that has been steadily enchanting the palates of Sydney folk. Jointly owned by Luis Guzman, Valeriya Finogeeva, and Executive Chef Hector Chunga, Warike has rapidly ascended to the culinary spotlight, shaking up the scene with its unique intermingling of Peruvian and Mediterranean influences. Warike has become a byword for authenticity, innovation, and the invigorating thrill of novel flavours, evolving from an unassuming home-based start-up into a local dining sensation. “Our journey commenced when I began cooking at home during the lockdown. Our passion for sharing the diverse and stimulating flavours of Peru pushed us to expand beyond the limits of my apartment,” shares Luis Guzman, co-proprietor of Warike. Drawing inspiration from the traditional ‘Warikes’ of Peru—unassuming, hidden dining spots revered for their spectacular food and homely ambience—Warike recreates a similar atmosphere in its 46-seater establishment. The restaurant’s philosophy, which hinges on authenticity and shared enjoyment, is flawlessly reflected in its decor and warm, hospitable service. The creative menu at Warike is a beautiful testament to the harmonious fusion of Peruvian and Mediterranean gastronomy. Chef Chunga, whose rich culinary background spans Peru, Japan, and Australia, uses his enthusiasm and proficiency to design dishes that are as visually appealing as they are flavourful. The star dishes, such as the ‘Ceviche Clásico’ and ‘Lomo Saltado’, embody a perfect blend of Peru’s fresh, lively tastes with the robust, intense flavours of the Mediterranean. The menu adapts with the seasons, allowing Warike to utilise fresh Australian… Read More

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

Tags: Peruvian, Peruvian Sydney, sydney restaurants, Warike, Warike Peruvian, Warike Surry Hills

The charm of Sydney’s family-owned restaurants

Roast cauliflower being spooned onto a plate

by James Banham

Updated: 16/04/2023

Sydney is an international hub for food, with cuisine from all around the world represented. However, among the many restaurants opening every month, there are some that truly stand out for their authentic flavors and commitment to tradition. These family-owned restaurants showcase the passion and creativity of generations of chefs and owners. Among those, four stand out as shining stars in Sydney’s culinary scene: Hello Auntie, XOPP, SAX, and Love.Fish – and more! Hello Auntie Owned by Chef Cuong Nguyen and his mother Thi Da (Lynda) Tran, Hello Auntie is a vibrant Vietnamese eatery in the bustling Darling Square precinct. Nguyen’s travels and culinary training have allowed him to bring a modern twist to traditional Vietnamese dishes, while still remaining true to the authenticity of the original flavors. “The food is a reflection of who we are and where we come from,” explains Nguyen. “Vietnamese culture is all about family, and that is something I want to share with our customers. Every dish is a story, and we hope to honor the Vietnamese culinary culture by telling those stories through our food.” The menu is an exciting blend of Vietnamese classics and innovative new creations. Must-try dishes include their signature crispy pork belly banh mi and modern variations of pho that reflect the chef’s London-based culinary training. XOPP XOPP, from the respected Golden Century Group, is a Cantonese restaurant that has persisted for over three decades. Founded by Eric and Linda Wong, the restaurant has been passed down to their sons, with Billy Wong now… Read More

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

Tags: Sydney family restaurants, sydney restaurants

Barangaroo’s new Mexican-inspired restaurant Tequila Daisy

by James Banham

Posted: 15/10/2021

Located harbourside at Barangaroo, Tequila Daisy is the newest venture by husband and wife duo Rebecca Lines and Hamish Ingham, replacing the former Banksii Vermouth Bar & Bistro. Designed by Luchetti Krelle, the waterfront space has been transformed into a bright and bustling 200-seat eatery that is primed for good times. With colourful tones of red, yellow and blue, the extensive outdoor terrace exudes a vibe of chilled poolside meets Mexican fiesta, with its bright window decals, pastel blue picnic tables and vibrant yellow umbrellas and chairs. Inside, you’ll find a long walk-up bar with accents of blue and white daisy tiles that displays an extensive selection of mezcal and tequila. “We’ve created a long drinks list that will work regardless of if you’re enjoying a quick beer or settling in for an afternoon of margaritas,” says co-owner and award-winning Sommelier, Rebecca Lines. “We’ve really seen Barangaroo’s clientele evolve over the last few years so we wanted to mix things up and have some fun with a new concept that would work for everyone!” Tequila Daisy’s new menu takes a fresh Australian twist on the diverse cuisine that hails from Mexico. Each dish is jam-packed with colourful, rich flavours from the region, lightened by the duo’s fresh approach to food and drink and deep respect for Australia’s best produce. Divided into entradas, a selection of tacos, grande dishes and sides, diners can starting with a beef cheek empanada with black bean sour cream and kingfish tostadas before indulging in a share-style BBQ achiote spatchcock and… Read More

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

Tags: barangaroo sydney, Barangaroo’s new Mexican-inspired restaurant Tequila Daisy, Mexican restaurant Sydney, sydney restaurants

Q Dining dishes out top notch seasonal fare atop Sydney’s Circular Quay

by THE F

Updated: 16/11/2022

Hotel restaurants are having a moment. No longer relegated to being a last resort for hotel guests, they’ve become dining institutions in their own right, for guests and locals alike. Such is the case with Q Dining. Part of the Pullman Quay Grand, Q Dining occupies a prime spot on Circular Quay, with floor to ceiling windows showcasing its enviable harbour view. Q Dining offers a regularly changing menu, showcasing Australia’s best seasonal produce and locally sourced meat and seafood. The a la carte menu features tried and tested staples with a distinctly Australian twist; pork sourced from Byron Bay is accented with saltbush, whilst poached cod is seasoned with coastal herbs. Sides consist of classic staples like butter bean salad, mash, baked cauliflower, and shoestring fries. Vegetarians are also catered for here, with a sublime lemon thyme risotto with strong notes of parmesan, or spicy linguine with roasted red pepper and herbs among the dishes that can be served meatless. Dessert isn’t an afterthought at Q Dining, with innovative dishes like a white chocolate yogurt crémeux served with mandarin sorbet and pistachio, or a classic yet well executed buttermilk panna cotta providing a sweet end to a delicious meal. The beverage list is thorough, featuring wines from around the world, as well as a concise cocktail list. Its clean, modern aesthetic also cements Q Dining as a fine dining one to watch. Featuring high ceilings, metallic pendant lights, and a subtle blue and wood colour scheme which blends perfectly with the harbour view outside,… Read More

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

Tags: best restaurants sydney, circular quay, q dining, Q Dining Sydney, Q Dining Sydney review, sydney, Sydney restaurant guide, sydney restaurants, where to eat sydney

General Chao attacks Sydney: New restaurant opens in

by James Banham

Posted: 19/07/2019

Nihao, General Chao. He’s invaded Sydney and lovers of Asian-Australian cuisine are excited. Think a relaxed up-beat atmosphere provides a versatile setting for a range of engagements, whatever the occasion from a quick mid-week lunch to a corporate event, after-work drink to a cosy table for two. Plus with a menu which stars deliciousness like coconut and beef rendang arancini with sriracha mayo, crispy popcorn eggplant bites tossed in the General’s special seasoning and the caramelised pork belly bao served with coriander, pickled radish salad and in-house plum saucePlus with a menu which stars deliciousness like as well as a drinks menu to boot, it doesn’t leave you wanting for much more. Check out the menu for yourself and make a booking at the General Chao website.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Chinese restaurants Sydney, General Chao, General Chao Chinese food, sydney restaurants

Panama House on Bondi Beach: Mexican inspired food by the beach

by James Banham

Posted: 27/05/2019

For the times you need a decent feed, inspired by South America but without the effort of having to travel, think Panama House. Right on Bondi Beach, it’s open plan, airy, got views for days and a menu that’ll have you wanting to come that often, too, serving up Mexican-inspired goods that are simple, honest, easy and delicious. They specialise in brunch and dinner, honing in on what makes the best of their menu worth the seaside trip and why their dining room is in such high demand. With a menu that stars the likes of huevos rancheros with flour and corn tortillas, scrambled eggs, cheese, veracruz beans, guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo; fajitas of spiced beef cheek, green mole chicken, confit pork jowl, slaw, veracruz beans, pico, guacamole, sour cream, flour tortillas as well as bourbon-smoked corn fritters with avocado, poached egg, ranch dressing, it’s pretty whole and damn nice. For those after something a touch more substantial, think buttermilk fried chicken burgers with mixed leaf, apple-cabbage slaw, american cheese, lime aíoli, hot sauce, hand-cut fries as well as tacos, salads and a full range of cocktails with super fun names. The creative cocktail list stars winners like “Once Apon A Time in Jalisco” made of vanilla tromba blanco tequila, pampelle grapefruit aperitif, passion fruit, pineapple, lemon, egg; “Caught In The Rain” concocted from plantation pineapple rum, passion fruit curd, coco-pina puree, tempus fugit banane liqueur; and a sweet, kicky “Beneath The City Lights” made with waqar pisco, lillet blanc, pierre ferrand curacao,… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: bondi restaurants, Mexican food Sydney, Mexican Sydney, Pamana Hosue Bondi review, Panama House Bondi, Panana House, sydney restaurants, the f sydney

Woolwich’s finest feed: Cucinetta on the water does stylish food well

by Emi Berry

Posted: 04/04/2019

Looking for somewhere special to dine? Then we’ll let you in on a little secret. Overlooking Lane Cove River in the peaceful suburb of Woolwich is Cucinetta, an award winning, hatted Italian restaurant which is just about to launch an exciting new breakfast menu that is guaranteed to please. Sydney born and bred Vincenzo Mazzotta, founder and Executive Chef at Cucinetta, creates unforgettable meals by using methods his forefathers used, applying them to slow cooking, pasta and cheese making. Ideally, you’d like to keep a hidden gem like this to yourself. But it would be unfair not to tell others about this beautifully located restaurant serving up delicious, authentic Italian dishes, including the incredibly fresh pastries, baked in-house. The new breakfast menu due to be launched in early April offers something for everyone. Frankly, they had me at ‘Nutella-filled croissants with white chocolate and hazelnuts’. But the ricotta hot cake with orange mascarpone, poached pear, figs, coconut and nuts is hot on the heels of those freshly baked croissants. Also high on the list of ‘must-haves’ is the super fluffy, brioche French toast, with caramelised banana, ricotta, chocolate and salted caramel. But if sweet dishes aren’t your jam, fear not, as there are a plenty of savoury dishes to satisfy, such as the moreish baked eggs with kale, chorizo, capsicum, tomato, chili and focaccia. The zucchini flower fritters with smoked salmon, cucumber, crème fraiche, and poached egg is another dish that is hard to go past. The ambience at Cucinetta is cheerful by day and… Read More

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

Tags: best restaurants sydney, Cucinetta Lane Cove Sydney, Cucinetta Sydney, sydney food, sydney restaurants, THE F Cucinetta, THE F restaurant

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.