ISSUE a WINTER 2018 White Space

ART + CULT ISSUE A WINTER 2018 white space

verbose və:’bəʊs adj. using or expressed in more words than are needed.

2 the_verbose issue a : winter 2018

Being an anonymous publication, it’s fitting that our first issue (a) represent anonymity. This theme is explored throughout several carefully curated stories in over 100 pages of lives that were unknown to us until now. The_verbose aims to capture the art and culture of individuals and of great range in effort to decrease the distance between people and the pages. We search , we absorb, we ask, they tell, we write, we all indulge. We have to capture the spirit and history in poeple, document a few corners of the world’s chaos and creativity, even if it means more words less pictures. The_verbose is a self-published intimate collection of curated human experiences and serendipitous finds. It’s all fine print.

ANGELA GLEASON creator

STEFANIA ELAINE curator curator

LIQUIDBLOX KIM digital curator

MAURO DIMASO J&R FRYDENBERG printing printing who *all interviews were completed in 2017

INK&MOVEMENTZIGORSASHAUNISEXANNAMODERNSOULANJABEYE- RBIGBORGPAULINEGERMAINFREELASTICABRUNOGARCASCAVOLINI

ty MELCHIORRIALESSANDRO&WOLFRAMORICCI

issue A : winter 2018 3 okuda san miguel sasha unisex giuseppe palmisano 06 18 26 street art watercolor femme fetale: sanctuaries tattoos from photographs from Spain Moscow from Bologna

nikola tamindzic anna kövecses solomon 44 56 66 fucking geometric under the New York paintings sun in from NYC from Cyprus Wadi Rum

samuel lerox niklas ibach diesel living 86 102 114 a millenial classical to space life and joyride from electronic: a DJ deserts from Paris from Berlin Milan WORDON THE STREET

guest contributor Taxis and Walnuts 82

marc torralba 34 felines, urbanwear + DJ sets from Barcelona THE INTERNET OF THINGS

guest contributor elaine gilruth 98

TURN IT UP

maupal 72 guest contributor stencil art + stefania casiraghi the pope 110 from Rome

SIDESTREET SPELNDOR

guest contributor 112

diesel living trev the viking 114 122 space life and a sailor & deserts from painter Milan in Malta

issue A : winter 2018 5 O04SSA

okuda 01 spain street artist

6 the_verbose issue A : winter 2018 7 HAMBURG MUNICH 2017 2017

8 the_verbose STREET ART SANCTUARIES okuda san miguel

From abandoned railways to a 16-story building in Kiev, Okuda San Miguel has been landscaping the world with art since 1997, taking low places to great heights. And as street art continues to dominate urban decor, this Spanish-bred talent is no stranger to the daring. His modern- meets-classic murals are the quintessential masterpieces that speak to his character and to his audiences with an emphasis on equality, cultural symbolism, and art in the most unexpected places.

His most recognized work, Kaos Temple in Llanera, Spain, is a project that transformed the abandoned Santa Barbara church into a skate- boarders’ sanctuary. Together with skate enthusiasts Church Brigade and RedBull, Okuda undertook his “personal Sistine Chapel.” MOROCCO 2016

He is no amateur when it comes scaffolding and ITALY questionable territory to house his vibrant colours and 2016 signature geometric style. Experiential and energetic, it is this artist’s technique and his passion for street influenced material confronting themes of freedom and oppression that frame his talent and hard work.

Okuda, a name he created as a child inspired by a Japanese comic, started out as a grafitti artist in the mid 90s before taking on street art in early 2004. In an interview last summer, we discovered a lot more about his work, and his ways. As he realizes his dreams everyday, he keeps his music close by. Catch him listening to bossa nova one day and electronica the next. You can find him watching The Fall, Avatar, The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus, Castillo Ambulante, Rainbow Thief or Holly Mountain by Jodorowsky in his down time. Want to take him to lunch? Seafood, avocado, fresh red tuna fish, green esparagus, juices with ginger and spinach - will win his heart.

issue A : winter 2018 9 10 the_verbose I remember the biggest building that I completed was in Kiev last year where the people and the media made me feel like part of the change in the country, and the freedom, because they had just come from a revolution, and are still at war in some places… The infinite grey cement buildings and grey sky in Ukraine needs colour, happiness and freedom.

V_ With countless hours and V_ How do you prepare for wild heights, what do you a project creatively and think about when painting? mechanically?

Okuda / I think about my iconography, my symbols, my Okuda / I used to start projects without final sketches. patterns, and my own world when I am painting. I try to For example, I arrived at the church without sketches and select which type of work is perfect for the new space. just went inside and started to feel what I needed to do Now, I like to work off of photos of sculptures from clas- in each place. The amazing architecture was like a script sical art history like Mesopotamian or Renaissance, that for me. The technique normally is spray-painting over a I see in museums or on the streets in my travels. I try to latex primer or acrylic paint background for big spaces. I insert some of this in my paintings; Figures from the past also use markers, stencils and masking tape in my smaller that come together with my modern pop art scenes. studio works.

ITALY 2015

issue A : winter 2018 11 FRANCE 2017

12 the_verbose issue A : winter 2018 13 14 the_verbose V_ Born and raised in Spain. What do you V_ What is one of your most memorable expe- love most about your country? riences working several stories high?

Okuda / I travel a lot and keep my home in Spain because I love the weather, the light and the colours in the streets, Okuda / Maybe painting in the favelas in Brazil, Peru, the funny and happy people, street life, nightlife, parties, Mali, Cabo Verde or India because you can feel the beaches, food of course, and the very talented artists smiles of the children, and the incredible vibes from the that are my friends, like SAN, Pantone, Spok, Remed, poor people. Very special moments that I can’t explain. Nano4814, Aryz, Nuria More. And I remember the biggest building that I completed in Kiev last year, where the people and the media made me V_Do you believe art can be a source of moti- feel like apart of the change in the country, and the free- vation and influence for young people? dom, because they had just come from a revolution, and are still at war in some places. The infinite grey cement Okuda / About the new generation, I don’t think they are buildings and grey sky in Ukraine needs colour, happiness going in a good way, because their values and motivations and freedom. are not good because of the shit that TV has shown them.

V_ Your work in Kiev: an experience that left V_ Your work has been exhibited around the you feeling apart of their freedom. How did world. Any particular locations that were the locals respond to your work in their city? most significant to you? Okuda / The locals in the beginning didn’t trust in something different like my art, nor like painting this big space. Okuda / I was excited to do my biggest murals or instal- But in the end, I met very grateful people. lations in public spaces in places like India, Hong Kong, Kiev, Moscow, or my fountain in Tennessee. But I need to go to Australia, hopefully soon. But the most inspirational countries to work are always in Africa, South America or Asia. I am also happy that I am starting to do gallery shows in USA and Asia.

issue A : winter 2018 15 V_ Your work is symbolic, often V_ Do you recall any experiences where evocative of modernity, existentialism you had to start over or paint over your and sub-surrealism. What is the role work, and how do you correct it? of colour in your work? Okuda / Spray paint lets you correct everything in a second. It is very fast and sometimes from mistakes come interesting new directions. Okuda / Yes. I always try to combine the grey scale with the full colour palette in a V_Do you recall the very first painting you harmonious way. The multi-colours symbolise completed as a street art? the multicultural. I paint faces with geometric patterns to show that everyone is the same, Okuda / I don’t know exactly. I started to paint graf- putting all types of skin colours on the same fiti in 1997, but street art maybe around 2004. level. And colour is a symbol of nature and life. The grey scale is the cement, the dust, the Dream project? And what are some chal- dead, and the material of classic sculptures. lenges for a street artist? Also, the greatest reward?

Okuda / I am seeing my dreams realized every year. I don’t know now about challenges but I never stop dreaming. The best reward is your own happiness, I need to create to be happy, and feel alive and believe me, that art is the meaning of my life.

16 the_verbose MADRID 2015

THE GIOCONDA, PARIS 2017

okudart.es @okudart

issue A : winter 2018 17 S02MTA

sasha 02 moscow tattoo artist

18 the_verbose issue A : winter 2018 19 “Sometimes I am asked, what is the meaning of this or that tattoo. At once, I carry back to that day when it was made. I remember what the weather was on this day; an interior of the studio; a face of the master and what they were speaking about; what I was thinking in that moment.”

20 the_verbose Dating back to Neolithic times, a One particular artist has carved No doubt, signors like Dr. Woo, tattoo has long served the body as out her niche in the crowd: a Bang Bang, and their teams of tat a sacred marking of one’s legend, young Russian female tattoo artist connoisseurs have also tapped the status, passion, and cult follow- holding her own, Sasha Unisex. A art of watercolour tattoo design ings. Once exclusive to female St. Lviv National Academy of Arts and product branding. But this practice in ancient Egypt, tattoos graduate, Sasha is first an art- artist exhibits a unique dimension were regarded as spiritual or royal, ist, then a business woman. And of design and branding which she while also revealing of a woman’s while she expands her signature has been cultivating throughout status: dancer, prostitute, royal watercolour tattoo designs into Moscow’s subculture since 2011. concubine (Smithsonian Maga- t-shirts, prints, and accessories, Read on about the lady du jour, zine). Later associated with lewd she remains entirely committed to her style, her technique, and her. acts, biker gangs, outlaws, prison her work of authorship and social hobbies, and worn as sleeves or ethos. trapezius murals, this personal affair with our bodies has continued “It is necessary to work to evolve. hard to arrive at something special. But it is worth it.” Today, in a world of hyper self- expression, intellectual property With an Instagram littered with laws, free-thinking millennials, watercolour designs, prismatic and a savvy new wave of graphic and vibrant, Sasha’s artwork de- designers, ink masters are at it picts nature in bazaar forms. Flying tenfold. And together the artist penguins. Perfectly shadowed and the individual can create aortas. Fox pilots. Rose gardens. something truly theirs, attributing These watercolour designs are to the lure and luxury of modern then carefully transferred onto the design skin deep. skin as tattoos.

issue A : winter 2018 21 SASHA UNISEX V_Stereotypes with tattoos. V_What solutions/products location and size, and especially What are your thoughts? do you have to use to ensure on the choice of needles and results with the separation paints.There is a lot of scientific Sasha / Popular stereotype is of color and precision of information on the Internet on that tattoos are made only in design? what happens with skin during prisons or in the army. Surely it’s tattooing process, I would add absolutely not true; and you also Sasha / The best way is to that it is not that scary, but you don’t have to be lazy to have a use bepanthen plus creme should be sure before a visit tattoo. One more popular delu- which you can find in all drug that you don’t have blood or sion: the tattoo will blur if you stores around the world. But skin diseases and that you aren’t gain weight. I’ve never faced I do not exclude the usage pregnant. If you often faint, you such a problem. Another one: of special cream for healing have to warn the tattooer about big tattoos ruin female beauty: a tattoo, which I’ve tried on it too. quite subjective, but neverthe- myself. During the first three less that’s a delusion; now there days of healing I use a special V_Challenges starting your own are a lot of different styles of compress. business in Moscow? tattoos. And women choose for themselves like gentle flowers, Sasha / Moscow is a big city fantastic birds and even lace with a huge amount of pos- as a tattoo design which only sibility; it’s engaging to start a emphasises the femininity of the business. And a business based owner. on art is not an exception at all, that’s why it was quite easy for V_What was one of your most me and my team. unsual or challenging requests for a tattoo? V_Is it true that some inks Sasha / The most unusual in- I teach my clients how to care can be harmful to the blood quiries do happen, and at times for a tattoo step-by-step, and stream? In this case, are the impossible to realise. Often cli- I also try to monitor the heal- colors you use specifically ents cannot adequately estimate ing process. This is because tested to be used on humans the size. They want to put an it’s such an important part of for permanent art? entire plot with a huge number my work, as a tattoo artist. of details into 5cm of space, Sasha / The biggest danger for or on the contrary they might If you are totally unfamiliar tattoo fans are infections. But overestimate the area assumed with this subject and know you are exposed to the same for a tattoo. But no matter nothing about it, but never- danger in a manicure salon or how difficult it is to come to an theless you decided to get with a visit to the dentist. There- understanding with a customer, a tattoo, the most important fore, modern tattoo artists pay it is necessary to try to meet thing is to trust in profession- much attention to their safety as them halfway, to have flexibility al. Study a portfolio and dif- to the client’s safety. All sup- so both parties should be ready ferent feedback about his or plies are one off. As for tattoo to temporise, then an excellent her work as a tattoo artist and pigments, I use special tattoo job will be done and both will when you are absolutely sure paints, and I only imitate the be satisfied. that this tattoo artist is a pro- watercolor effect, transferring fessional, with no doubt trust the sketch made with watercol- his or her advice on tattoo ors onto skin.

22 the_verbose “I always want to return to the cities where turning points in my life happened: to Lviv, to St. Petersburg, to Moscow, for nostalgia and meetings with old friends.”

issue A : winter 2018 23 Sasha / My first tattoo is a black and white rose with V_What is the greatest part a girl’s face, which I made when I was 23 years old. I have quite a lot tattoos with the image of flowers of the city and the people and animals, but I can’t choose my favourite or on the contrary my least favourite, as each of them are where you live? special and are apart of me.

I don’t remember my skin without tattoos anymore, Sasha / At the moment I live in Rome and I’m in love with as if I had them always. Sometimes I am asked, this city! I admire how surprisingly nature intertwines with what’s the meaning of this or that tattoo, at once I architecture here. Walking in the downtown feels like you carry back to that day when it was made, I remem- move in time. Locals decorate their balconies with flow- ber what the weather was this day, an interior of ers, it looks like botanical gardens. Besides they are very the studio, a face of the master and what we were friendly and love animals. speaking about, what I was thinking of in that moment.

24 the_verbose The biggest danger to tattoo fans are infections. But you are exposed to the same danger, in a manicure salon or when you visit a dentist.

sashaunisex.com @sashaunisex

issue A : winter 2018 25 G01BP giuseppe palmisano 01 bologna photographer

26 the_verbose GIUSEPPE PALMISANO

“The delicacy and harmony of the body, are my favourite traits in women.”

In the case of female intimacy, the bare breasts and lace panties are secondary to the obscurely seductive, and at times sterile portraits from Giuseppe Palmisano.

Palmisano seems to find just the right harmony between cumbrous props and wistful figures under the theme of love and abandonment. His work may require a journey through conceptual land, asking viewers to rethink the prop while tapping an emotional proximity to his subjects. No doubt, the young blood is as playful as he is morose in triggering an engaging perspective on the language of the body in its most unexpected positions, and places.

The Bologna-born creative, both writer and photographer, isn’t shy about the challenges that come with being a young artist in Italy. Although at 28, he has already been spotted in over 20 magazines including Juxtapoz, Buzzfeed, Bored Panda, and racked up a nice IG audience. With his heart at home in Italy, and his eyes on New York, timing seems right to sneak a word in before he’s back on the go.

issue A : winter 2018 27 Every day for me is a discovery of what I can do, with video, performances, or other ways to express myself. The city where I live, but only in the night, is a very peaceful place. Also the sea in the winter.

V_ Hi. Lamps, plastic heads, mattresses, female nudity, road- V_Women. Is there a pattern with the women you photo- sides and nature… Does your work have a common theme, graph? What is the magic in these portraits for you, and and are your collections interconnected? what do you find are the most cherished traits in women? GP / Hi, yes I think so. I’m trying to share my vision of female GP / I work with all the women, but I prefer them without intimacy, but without telling a story, rather through an aes- tattoos. I want to create a picture out of time, that’s the thetic or an unusual scenario. I gave my life to art, at any time magic. The theme of ‘the abandoned’ is very present in I see the world through the lens of art, not only when I take a my work, and also the theme of ‘the end of a love story.’ picture or I produce something. Delicacy and Harmony (of the bodies) are my favourite traits in women. And, a naked woman never seems hilarious, on the contrary, a man is too hard to put naked in a photo.

28 the_verbose V_What are some technologies used in your photography work? Do you welcome emerging digital technology with regard to your craft? GP / I don’t have a digital camera. I bought an analogue one and I’m experimenting with that now, but I shoot with very different kinds of technologies as reflex, mirror- less, or as with this last period the iPhone ( I used the iPhone too much). . V_ A memory when you laughed so hard?

GP / I remember very well the day when I visited the big ship where my uncle worked. I laughed so hard at some stand up comedian’s show. V_ Do you have any fears? GP / In this period I’m too much of a hypochondriac. Everything about sickness scares me a lot, so death (and the dead) is one of my real fears. “...I prefer to know the girl that V_ Do you strive to have a social or cultural impact with your photography? I have to photograph the same GP / I believe in the social and cultural impact of art. I use photog- day of the shooting. If there are raphy to meet people and create a kind of public art with my shows. too many people while I shoot, Also, on the web I try to interact daily with my followers. it is quite uncomfortable for V_ How much does the reaction of an me.” audience impact how you feel about your own work and your future projects? GP / My artistic background comes from theatre. I was an actor, and the reaction of an audience is so important to know where you are going, and to suggest the direction ahead. I learned to work with the audience, but not for the audience.

ITALY 2017

issue A : winter 2018 V 30 the_verbose ITALY 2017

issue A : winter 2018 31 ITALY 2017

GIUSEPPE PALMISANO

V_ You have exhibited around Italy, while having some great international coverage. Where would you like to showcase abroad?

GP / I hope so much. It is not easy for a young and Italian artist to go abroad. I’m trying to go in the US. I dream of an exhibition in New York. People there are very interested in my work, and I feel something that calls me there. I hope.

V_ What do you love most about your country, and what have been some challenges

GP / I have loved the traditions of my country that have given me a lot of inspiration, but is not easy to work only with art here, like i’m doing now. People start to recognise your talent only when you have some international coverage. So I want to go showcase my work abroad and then maybe return here.

32 the_verbose “I learned to work with the audience, but not for the audience.”

giuseppepalmisano.com @iosonopipo

issue A : winter 2018 33 M05BC marc torralba 05

barcelona

creative / marketing

34 the_verbose MARC TORRALBA Barcelona. Felines, DJ Sets + Urbanwear

For anyone new to the concept store scene, welcome. Customers walk into a carefully curated storefront for a unique, even unusual shopping experience. A concept store could go like this: You enter, light strikes you right as you peruse the denim bar before finding yourself looking at shaving kits and the next thing you know a barista brings you a macchiato and you’re watching a live jazz band in the back of the store. You walk out having purchased the coffee mug (made in Sweden), the chair you sat in (Eames ottoman), a pair of socks (made in Japan) and maybe the drumsticks at checkout? The experience sold.

Now imagine a concept store in Barcelona where you can shop local urbanwear, dance, water some plants, and adopt a cat. Real thing. Designer DJ and cat enthusiast Coyu had a wild vision he fervently pursued. Plush with raw plywood, an urban jungle and an array of feline themed clothing, the niche concept store welcomed a stylish crowd at the Suara Store official launch in November 2016.

But while the mastermind Coyu was hitting the road and hustling his plan, right hand man Marc Torralba was building the brand. Marc was a particularly interesting find, as the head of communications and new projects behind Suara Store, the seasoned visionary tapped his own creative and marketing juices to bring Suara Store alive in Barcelona’s niche district, Born. Meet Marc. Seven hours of sleep on average. No regrets. Fan of Moby remixes. Zero superstitions.

issue A : winter 2018 35 MARC TORRALBA

V / How did you join forces with Gaas would be our art director of time the rhythm it is faster Suara, and what branding and when he saw his work. It’s a plea- and faster. Technology, like the marketing existed before you sure for me to work with Gaas, internet is connecting the world arrived? not only talking about designing and cultures. All artists have and his art but also for the way the possibility to show their art Marc / I knew about the Suara he works and sees life. through the internet, but you project before I landed at Suara. will connect with people if your I had been working for ten years V / What is the audience in art stands out from the centre of in press agencies in Barcelona mind with regard to the Suara this big data. Arts and cultures and Madrid when Coyu (The Big brand? (animal lovers, music are mixing in quickly and trend- Cat) proposed me to change my lovers, fashionistas, locals, late ing. It’s amazing and a little comfortable position to discover twenties, mom?) stressful too. Suara’s universe. The Suara philosophy was totally authentic Marc / Suara was created for V / What are some of your before I arrived. We are not young spirits, design lovers favourite places in Barcelona, talking about brand positioning, and music lovers but more and what do you love the most we are talking about real values importantly, we produce for about the city, the people and inside the team, but they didn’t conscious people looking for the culture? put it in a document and include something different from fast them in the brand DNA. I ex- fashion; People who know what Marc / I love to travel and tracted their philosophy, to give they want to buy. We work with discover other cultures, but it a form and put it into com- ethical production and sustain- Barcelona is one of my favourite munication tools. Suara is more able materials. We are headed cities. In front of the Suara Store than a fashion brand, I believe in towards a demanding audience you can find the “Mercat del this amazing project and I need that appreciates special designs Born”, an old market. Ten years to show their soul to the world. and we are proud to say that ago with it’s reformation, they these type of people are around discovered Roman ruins under V / How did you discover Gaas, the world, for this reason we are the market. It’s amazing to visit the designer, and decide on his also shipping worldwide. this old market and find, with work for the launch of Suara? little imagination, how Romans lived thousands of years ago. Marc / Gaas is a multidisci- V / How do you see art and Modernism is part of the recent plinary artist with a fascinating culture has changed in the past history of the city and I love imagination. Suara is Gaas and 5-10 years? the philosophy because the art Gaas is Suara, one of the most together with the nature are a important mainstays of Suara. Marc / I like to see the world like perfect match. Coyu was the person who a washing machine. It started discovered Gaas. Coyu is an in- slowly spinning a thousand tuitive person and he knew that years ago and with the passing

36 the_verbose We are out to show the world that they can find humour and graphic fashion with sustainable materials.

GAAS Suara artist @gaas_artwork

issue A : winter 2018 37 above The Cat House @ the Suara Foundation

V / Do you believe art has the power to influence society As a good Mediterranean and has the power to create change? Do you hope to see the Suara Project impact social and creative circles? man, I’m in love with our gas- Marc / Absolutely, of course! Art is an important figure in tronomy and our wines; You culture and could help change minds and open eyes to creative people. It’s not a wish, it’s a reality. In Suara Foun- could find many gastronomy dation we are working to help street cats and we are also creating educational work. jewels in the popular restau- For example, we are preparing talks to schools about the rants. My favourite paella is importance of preserving nature with visits to the Suara Foundation. If we talk about Suara like a fashion brand, cooked at the Maians restau- we expect that our way will work to inspire more fashion brands. Society still has the idea that sustainable fashion rant in the Barceloneta. is boring, but we are out to show the world that they can find humour and graphic fashion with sustainable materials.

38 the_verbose V / At Suara, if someone wants to adopt a cat, are they ready with vaccinations and already have names? What do they cost to adopt?

Marc / At the Suara Foundation all the cats are vaccinated and we give them names, but the new family could change their name if they prefer. For the Suara Foundation one healthy cat could be more than 300€ in terms of veterinary care but we never demand pay for adoption, we ac- cept donations to continue help- ing more cats. We study closely every cat character and family life style because we want to find the best relationship.

V / How do the cats arrive at the adoption center?

Marc / We are in contact with animal shelters from Barcelona. We try to help cats with prob- lems, with veterinary needs and with a friendly spirit. First, they receive veterinary care, for example sterilisation, or if they have suffered damages they will receive correct treatment. When they are ok, they arrive to the foundation.

They stay in a specialised quar- antine room and when they are ready and prepared, we then open the door and let our new cats to have a relationship with the other cats of the foundation It’s a lengthy process but it’s necessary for the cats’ welfare.

issue A : winter 2018 39 All time favorite film? Amelie.

40 the_verbose photo cred Sandra Blanquez express whoweare. inside.It’shas anartist to beautiful everyperson that sion too.Ithink pas- and crafts,Iinheritedthis lovespainting Also, mymother important symbol! meaningofthis notknowthe I did eight yearsold.WhenIwasachild a ying-yangpendantwhenIwas ance. Ijustremembered Ihad that expressions bal- aesthetic andthe (friends) the inall aesthetic the have.Ilove bestgiftsyou’ll the oneof savour friendships,islike around all quietly me,andto passiontoobserve the nation, helped medevelopmyimagi- family. fact this Isupposethat Marc onlychildinmy /Iwasthe artists inyourfamily? your childhoodlike&are there V /More aboutyou.Whatwas ful inSpainand hasanimportant wool. Thiscampaign wassuccess- Campaignfor Company inthe TheWoolmarkwas workingwith projectof mymostsatisfactory brandsbutone international Spanish designersandimportant many been fortunatetoworkwith year.Suara this past,Ihave Inthe Marc /WhenIbegantoworkin lastyear. Festival atVida tine energy around BenjaminClemen- atmosphere. remember Istill the concert, it’s tofeelthe soexciting energyenjoy the created around a and Ilovemusicfestivals fess that past experiences.ButImustcon- the all andithaseclipsed month Marc /Sorry, butIgotmarriedlast plishment thusfar? V /Greatest professional accom- experiences inlife? V /Oneofyourgreatest or Coyu. Comedy, Moby, AmyWinehouse FreddyCell, Mercury, TheDivine CharlesAznavour,Tiersen, Soft songsofYannday Icanlisten I’m more same Inthe eclectic… P. musicaluniverse Horst.Inthe Westwood. ofHorst Theaesthetic Vivienne cha. Thefighterspiritof character. TheartofAlphonseMu- and asanartist SalvadorDalí with surrealism, the with specifically Marc I’minlove /I’msoeclectic! ment. greatest professional- accomplish near future SuaraStore bea will environment. inthe Iknowthat that as anaturalfiber the respects ofwool education mission onthe and musicinspirations? V /Someofyourmusicfaves, issue A : winter 2018 A:winter issue Foundation Foundation Suara Founder, COYU 41 MARC TORRALBA

V / Speaking of music. How do you plan to create the club and dj scene at this location (particularly how do you recruit artists and what is the ambience you hope to create)?

Marc / Nowadays we have vinyls of the Suara Label. In the future, we will do talks around the music and we will have a DJ table for public meetings to enjoy live music.

V / Did you have any doubts or reservations about the Suara Store opening?

Marc / Suara Store is an ambitious and risky project but we are convinced that it is so different than any other project, for this reason we are going to put a lot of effort into communication and quality products. We strongly believe that the Suara Project will be successful.

In Suara Store you could buy ethic and sustainable fashion with an important design, load up on music and art and you can adopt a cat, too! We are thinking to explore more art spheres, Suara Store will be an idea lab.

42 the_verbose We are sure that Suara Store will be a new meeting point for artists, cat lovers and Gaas music lovers facebook.com/gaasdesign @gaas-artwork in Barcelona.

suara-store.com @suara-store

issue A : winter 2018 43 N06NP nikola tamindzic

new york

photographer

44 the_verbose FUCKING NEW YORK N06NP nikola tamindzic It’s been over a year since my interview with the New York fashion photographer, and former Gawker editor. And since the launch of his titilating project, Fucking New York, Tamindzic has continued his craft while also touting the release of his art book which includes the full visual experience on your coffee table.

While women pose in their most liberating physical positions, Nikola Tamindzic extracts the animal within orgasmic freedom and female sexuality on the streets of New York City.

Fucking New York is an art series of photographs and installations that capture the magnetism of human behavior beyond the city’s architectural constraints. Limitless and totally relevant.

Earlier last year the high profile art & fashion photographer gained a huge following with the showcase of Girls Girls Girls, an installation art show featuring the project Fucking New York. He recently announced the global tour of FNY and also released a book last month. This month we got to speak with the artist himself about how it all began.

The Serbian native and NYC veteran touches upon his conceptual, technical and personal moti- vation behind the evolving project. On a Wednes- day in November. 10pm in Rome. 4pm in New York. I called Nikola. As he prepared hot tea and I poured red wine the conversation unraveled in a stream of consciousness, fragments and tangents revolving around the building of Fucking New York.

issue A : winter 2018 45 NIKOLA Tamindzic

The women I shoot are truly collaborators — we talk a lot about their own sexuality, their desires, likes and dislikes, and try to incorporate as much of that into each shot

V_What is about New York? So many of us can’t put down The way we who live here completely buy into the in words what keeps the pulse of this city so alive, and yet mythology as well — that each day is a snapshot from photos seem to captures every time. Would you say it’s one a movie, that “if you can make it here, you can make it of the most adventurous and rewarding cities to photograph? anywhere”, that all the discomforts of NYC life are worth What other cities in the world do you find compelling to it — sounds like a dysfunctional romantic relationship photograph? with someone you mythologize, doesn’t it?

Nikola / Fuck if I know. What I mean is, every shot I make Fucking New York seems like a more sensible idea in this of NYC, within Fucking New York or not, is an attempt to city than it would in many others. Other cities? They’re crack the mystery. But yes — there’s an energy that is unlike different, and it takes time, and actually living there and anywhere else, and that makes it incredibly compelling. Then not just visiting, to find out their angle, past the tour- there’s the deep, deep mythology involved as well — the way ist landmarks. For example, my feeling is Fucking Paris NYC presents itself. would involve courtyards rather than streets, and people crawling the walls and ceilings of their apartments.

46 the_verbose New York is the 20th century city - like Paris is the 19th century city — and I think it would be great to live & create work in a city that’s shap- ing up to be the 21st century city. Which one would that be? Shang- hai, maybe? I’m looking forward to finding out.

V_Breasts. An integral part of the concept and women entirely. Was there a particular look you were after? And although the material dodges profanity it reaches for promiscuity and somehow remains shall we say, tasteful? Had you set limits within your shots for this project?

Nikola / Lately I’ve been pushing in a more visceral direction, and no matter the amount of flesh or bodily fluids, the whole thing — to my eyes at least — stays tasteful. Marilyn Minter is a good example — no matter how close she pushes the camera to mouths, tongues and pubic hair, and then coats them in goo, it’s still firmly in the art camp. The profanity you men- tion is more in the intent, as far as I’m concerned — who the work is aimed at, and to what purpose. The women I shoot are truly collaborators — we talk a lot about their own sexuality, their desires, likes and dislikes, and try to incorporate as much of that into each shot — the action is never pushed on them, and there have been a few happy occasions where I had to play catch-up with what the model wanted to do.

I think you can tell all this just by looking at the photos, by the level of comfort and abandon on display. Other than the premise of reacting to the city sexually, and feeling free to do so, we’re not enacting my personal fantasies — what’s happening in the frame comes from women being photographed, and their own sexuality, and that comes across — and that’s ultimately what makes it “tasteful” for me, or more precisely, ethically sound.

issue A : winter 2018 47 NIKOLA Tamindzic

48 the_verbose issue A : winter 2018 49 NIKOLA Tamindzic

NIKOLA

50 the_verbose We all move to New York to pursue our dreams, to play in the highest leagues, to be the best in what we do, to be the king or queen of New York. To me, that’s such a human quest — doomed to failure, often hilarious, but also filled with dignity.

V_How did this project begin, creatively and at religious ecstacy or an orgasm. motivationally? And I want to learn about the (There’s not much difference anyway.) Mouth open, exhal- technical aspect that went into the look and ing, like something is about to be born. There is this goofy feel of this collection. line from Sex and the City, “when you live in New York you’re in relationship with New York.” It’s very true. That’s where Nikola / There was a reaction against the kind Fucking New York started — if the city is your most important, of work involved in fashion photography. I wanted most intense relationship when you live here, what would sex less big production — me, model, one assistant. with it look like? It’s a relationship filled with an incredible I wanted to focus on play, not technique, and I want- energy. Good or bad. ed to create a situation in which happy accidents occur, as opposed to super streamlined photo- V_What would screwing New York City actually look shoots with a large crews. Fashion productions are like? When you look back at your work, are you able to wonderful, but oftentimes the shoot really happens answer that question? in pre-production. I knew this project needed to be shot in the streets, with a certain uncanny look. That Nikola: The answer is in impossibility, in delusion involved. cliche of New York nudes, ie. plopping glamourous We all move to New York to pursue our dreams, to play in the naked women on rooftops with the New York skyline highest leagues, to be the best in what we do, to be the king in the background… that whole thing, that couldn’t or queen of New York. To me, that’s such a human quest — happen. doomed to failure, often hilarious, but also filled with dignity.

No easy signifiers of New York, no fire escapes, no In the collection there are environments where the subjects brick walls, no rooftops, no skylines. You almost appears completely exposed, literally lying out on the street never see the sky in Fucking New York. With or near a phone booth, and then there are images of the Manhattan in particular, there is a claustrophobia, subject in crevices, tucked away, or indoors or in a place that a feeling of being walled in. This brings about the could be their home. Was this a conscious treatment? Nikola: disparity between the size of the city, and limitations Fucking New York is a purposefully rambling series, if you of our own bodies. How does a person fuck a city? will. It was always conceived as a book (so, let’s say, a 100 How do you wrap your arms — or indeed legs — images), rather than a tight gallery presentation of 20 photos. around a concept? So I always aimed for a broad edit — mostly skewed towards public spaces, outdoors, and even indoor shots don’t register Before Fucking New York officially started, I noticed as homes to me, they feel like common spaces, like hotel a certain commonality to the photos I kept making hallways. – photos depicting weird moments where sex and religion overlap — you’re not sure if you’re looking

issue A : winter 2018 51 NIKOLA Tamindzic

“I chose women who V_About the role of women. The look you were after, can you elaborate? could fall into this story Nikola / Women in the series feel alone, have — who could make you no connection with camera, not posing for observer’s pleasure. The camera shoots from feel like you’re witness- the position of a random persom who just happened to be walking by, or looking out their ing a very private mo- office’s window. ment that just happens So I chose women who could fall into this story — who could make you feel like you’re witness- to be unfolding in pub- ing a very private moment that just happens to be unfolding in public, with no spectators, lic, with no spectators, and even if there were other people passing by, they wouldn’t care. Working closely with them, and even if there were trying to tie in their personal fantasies and preferences was absolutely key — both to help other people passing by, them bring out something real from themselves, and for me to remaine surprised. If you know they wouldn’t care. too much about what’s happening you tend to repeat yourself.

52 the_verbose V _ Men in ths shoot...

Nikola / I aimed to have as many different people in the shoot — a cross-section of New Yorkers. Most of the time, shooting fashion means shooting slim twenty-something white girls, and so bringing in diversity was really important to me. Originally, this included men, as well. You can just picture it — men, literally fucking the city, like in ancient fertility rituals. No matter how I tried, men wouldn’t be a part of it (usually with the same quote, “no one wants to see that shit.”)

Initially I was quite disappoint- ed, but then I came across this documentary called “Married to the Eiffel Tower”, about a community of people who fall in love with objects, fetishize and marry them. As it turns out, all mem- bers of this community were women — so maybe there’s something about fluidity of female sexuality that just lends itself well to Fucking New York, and male sexuality simply doesn’t work the way I figured it would. (pause. a shift in energy.)

NIKOLA

issue A : winter 2018 53 NIKOLA Tamindzic

NIKOLA TAMINDZIC

V_ At what age did you embark upon photography? What are some goals you have for yourself and your work at this point in your career?

Nikola / Photography appealed to me from an early age — my dad had a Nikon he took lots of family photos with — and I think there may have been a brief attempt to shoot film in mid ‘90s. But nothing happened until after I moved, and came across a Sony digital camera in an office I worked at — I remember it being a huge contraption that took 3 1/2 inch floppy disks. FLOPPY DISKS! So ancient. But that’s where the door opened — with digital — and there was so much joy to it, same joy millions of people have experienced with their cell phones over the past 10 years.

54 the_verbose “I grew up in Belgrade, lived through the happy ‘70s and ‘80s in Yugoslavia, and the thoroughly awful ‘90s in Serbia. After the NATO bombing of Belgrade in ’99, I decided that all of that was all quite interesting etc. but it may be time to just get the fuck out.”

nikolatamindzic.com @nikolatamindzic

issue A : winter 2018 55 A16CA

56 the_verbose anna 16 A16CA cyprus artist

issue A : winter 2018 57 ANNA Kövecses

Sometimes I day-dream about quitting everything and starting a whole new life It’s not everyday we ... hear about great artists in Cyprus, let alone Cyprus.

But the Mediterranean treasure, rich in Neolithic history and exotic coastlines, is home to Anna Kövecses, a Hungar- ian artist and mother whose work and life captures the modern beauty of the ancient island.

We discovered Anna’s work in an Insta- gram post about a Warby Parker store opening in North Carolina. And then we discovered Anna. Laced in stories, Anna is ethereal, full of soul, and adventurous, as she opens up about motherhood and being a professional artist in a place so geographically remote.

58 the_verbose Sometimes I day-dream about quitting everything and starting a whole new life ...

V_ What are some of the most beautiful places in the world? And where would you like to explore?

Anna / Right now the most beautiful place for me is our home, a small village on the Southern shore of Cyprus surrounded by gentle hills, hundred-year-old olive plantations and a white cliff trimmed stretch of deep blue sea. I won’t lie to you, it’s not always been the most beautiful place in my mind. We’ve spent days in much more picturesque spots of the world, but finally this village became the place where we found harmony and peace and I think the place that you can are calling home is always the most beautiful.

Although, we have recently been playing with the idea of taking a year off from work and school, buy- ing an old but strong sailing boat and crossing the Atlantic to explore South America.

issue A : winter 2018 59 ANNA Kövecses

ANNA

V_ Anna, will you share with us Commissioned projects hardly ever I am deeply inspired by my sur- about your art + design back- provide this opportunity but that’s roundings at the moment: beautiful ground and your career journey fine. You have to set a line between landscapes, Mediterranean villages, to today. yourself as an artist and your other vibrant fruits, mamahood, pregnan- self as an illustrator. cy, cooking healthy dishes… these Anna / I don’t really have a proper are all saturating my world and I’d design background. I never went to V_What is one goal you strive to love to pour them into paint jars and any art school, just kind of figured achieve with every piece of work fill canvases with them. Ok, this is things out myself after becoming a you complete (i.e. harmony, a maybe too much, but you know, I’m mama at the age of 20. I had no job balance of color, a sale, a per- pregnant and the hormones speak and no profession so I got myself sonal story within each piece)? from me. a couple of books and albums on art and design and made up some V_How do you define a piece imaginary projects for myself so that of art as a “masterpiece” – and I could practice. At the beginning what is one of your favorite I was more focused on graphic de- masterpieces? sign and logo making, then I slowly shifted towards illustration and Anna / I don’t know, I think a started experimenting with imagi- masterpiece can be anything really. nary posters and book covers. Then It’s very personal and subjective and these early experiments became even one person’s opinion changes a bit popular on social media and constantly over time. A masterpiece suddenly I became a proper illustra- Anna / I like working on stuff that can be something accidental or not tor with proper big clients. makes me happy. I know it doesn’t manmade even. But it is something sound like the biggest revelation of so perfect and full of beauty that V_Your colors and shapes are all times but I can’t really find bet- changing any little detail of it would distinct, and your style recog- ter suiting words. I love observing destroy its charm immediately. nizable. How does an artist like everyday objects or happenings yourself arrive at a particular around me and translate them into Right now my favorite masterpieces style, and how do you see your something two dimensional in a sim- are some beautifully minimal bronze work has evolved over the ple and effortless visual language. age clay figures I recently saw at the years? And It makes me very happy and anthropological museum in Nicosia, grateful that other people find plea- an Italian movie from the 90’s called Anna / I think these early, self sure in looking at the outcomes. Mediterraneo, a drawing of a huge initiated, non-stressed and playful yellow camel my daughter did for projects were the ones that let V_How much of your daily life is me and the sourdough bread I bake me find my voice as an artist and consumed with your art? And do twice every week which is so forgiv- develop my “style”. However I you move throughout your life ing that turns out to be the perfect don’t really believe in the “Find your with an artistic lens? artesian loaf even if I break all rules signature style and stick to it” type in the recipe because of being of approach. I constantly feel that Anna / My work and my personal miserably oblivious. And of course I need to do something new that life are pretty much blurred into anything Matisse did. wasn’t there before. I need the thrill each other, with some cleaner and of surprise and the feeling of flow more organized morning hours and excitement that comes with ex- when my kids are at school. But still perimenting and finding new forms my everyday life is what fuels my and colors and layers inside myself. work and provides inspiration for new ideas.

60 the_verbose “Getting love and appreciation from others is a basic need of every human being. We are viewing ourselves as reflections in other people’s eyes...”

issue A : winter 2018 61 ANNA Kövecses

She was pretty good V_What is one of your greatest childhood memories? And did you grow up with artistic influences? at everything from Anna / I had a stormy childhood with lots of moving, di- painting romantic oil vorced parents, frequent changing of schools, etc. Anyway, there was a period that is extremely kind to my heart. For a landscapes to knitting while we lived in a tiny village by the mountains where people still lived a life that was strongly dependent on nature. fancy sweaters and There was only one road running through the village and days could pass without seeing a car driving by. A handful decorating her house of houses were scattered over rolling green hills and we got fresh eggs and milk every morning from our neighbors. in a communist Forests were abundant with berries and mushrooms and we spent our entire summer wandering around flower filled plywood-meets-turk- meadows. This period has strongly influenced the person I became and my love for nature and slow paced life. ish delight oriental style.

62 the_verbose The only person with an artistic vein in my family was my grandma. Anything she did held her creative touch. She was pretty good at everything from painting romantic oil landscapes to knitting fancy sweaters and decorating her house in a communist plywood-meets-turkish delight oriental style. She would also sing us opera excerpts while baking her famous strudels. Actually she was the first one to encourage me to step on the road to an artistic career. Although she probably pic- tured me becoming a ceramic artist like her great idol Margit Kovacs.

V_What is a personal challenge that you have overcome in your life? And has it impacted your approach to your artwork?

Anna / Sometimes balancing work and life as an artist can be pretty challenging. On one hand it’s a fabulous thing to show your kids new perspectives of the world, to treat each dinner, each hand sewn cuddly toy or sand castle as a piece of art. But on the other hand, having to put down the paintbrush in the middle of the greatest creative flow to transform back into a mama and read the same picture book for the thousandth time can be sometimes a bit frustrating too. I like to look at these moments as lessons that teach me patience and tolerance and also as opportunities to step back and let my ideas and work mature in my head until I can get back to them and finish what was left abandoned.

V_If you were not an illustrator, what do imagine your life would be like otherwise?

Anna / I’m sure I would have somehow ended up with a creative job. I’m sometimes day-dreaming about quitting everything and starting a whole new life as a baker or a seam- stress or a travel book author. issue A : winter 2018 63 ANNA Kövecses

“I wanted to explore two people sharing a still moment of reading their summer books silently beside each other. They are physically close, their bodies interlaced and face each other, but part of their minds are submerged in two different worlds, which I think reflects a calm and relaxed trust and harmony between the two of them and us. Nothing is really happening in the illustration and still you can feel emotions in the air.”

NORTH CAROLINA 2017

64 the_verbose V_ Your project with Warby Parker still you can feel emotions in the V_ Where do you see yourself and in North Carolina, talk about how air. Which I think is really exciting your work in the future? it bagan and what you enjoyed. when combined with a busy shop location. Anna / I feel more and more that Anna / I have worked with Warby balancing an illustration career, a Parker before and they have always V_ How much does the reac- demanding family life and my own been one of those rare but pre- tion of an audience impact your artistic projects is growing to be a cious clients who gave me their work? bigger task than what I can handle. NORTH CAROLINA trust and creative freedom. Our I will definitely have to shift weights 2017 first collaboration was a design for Anna / Of course it has an im- between them, which is fine and one of their limited edition square pact. Getting love and apprecia- I’m happy about it. It’s the kind of cleaning cloths and our second tion from others is a basic need change that life brings along and collaboration (the mural for their of every human being. We are you cannot really do much about it North Carolina store) has been a viewing ourselves as reflections but go with the flow. sequel of this original cloth illustra- in other people’s eyes. I would tion. lie if I said that the opinions of I’m dreaming about using my others, numbers of my followers maternity leave from commercial I wanted to explore two people or positive comments under my work as an excuse to explore myself sharing a still moment of read- instagram posts didn’t count to more as an artist and reflect on ing their summer books silently me at all. But the fact that this this very special period of my life besides each other. They are physi- counts doesn’t mean that this is through painting, drawing and cally so close, their bodies inter- the only thing that counts. (maybe) children’s book making. lace and face each other but part This is a very utopist dream, I know of their minds are submerged in I’m not doing my work to and there’s a high chance it will be two different worlds. Which I think gather “likes” but because I find washed away by sleepless nights reflects a calm and relaxed trust pleasure in the very act of doing and roaring chaos but it’s a nice and harmony between the two of it. Getting positive feedback plan anyway. them and us, the viewers who are from the world encourages me allowed to get a glimpse of this to carry on and motivates me intimate moment. Nothing is really as a fuel. Making others happy happening in the illustration and through your work feels great.

annakovecses.tumblr.com @annakovecses

issue A : winter 2018 65 S19WRB

soloman 19 wadi rum bedouin

66 the_verbose On an evening in April we arrived at the base camp of Wadi Rum where we parked our car, dropped off heavy luggage in a local home, and jumped into a jeep for a 20-minute ride into the desert. Just S19WRB like that, we soon found ourselves among a small group of international travellers preparing for a homemade Bedouin dinner. While some sat with tea by the fire, and others wandered the sands, the host was cooking chicken and rice.

Later that night at various points in the dark we all noted the silence, the chill, and stargazed under a blanket of infinite solar treasures. We also convinced our host to take us into the base camp to watch an important European soccer match. Neighbors joined, floor seating for all, the kindest of friends, cigarettes abound, Arabic commentators over the big screen.

The next day, while touring the desert highlights (dunes, Lawrence legends, historic sites, rock structures and family businesses) our host stopped along the way for tea, conversation, and shade. It was in between these jeep rides and sand slides together with a brief back and forth on WhatsApp months later, that I began to catpure the lives of these magical tribes under the sun in Wadi Rum, particularly that of one of our hosts, Solomon. While the story is still unfolding, we thougtht to share the early work- ings with the_verbose.

photo cred // Anthon Jackson photo cred

issue A : winter 2018 67 photo cred // Popova Tetiana photo cred

People have lived in Rum for thousands of years, struggling to I feel free and the survive in its harsh environment. They have been hunters, pasto- ralists, farmers and traders, as Rum is close to national borders. desert is like my Even the famous Nabateans once occupied Rum, leaving behind kingdom and several structures, including a temple. Local people gained notoriety more recently when they joined even with all the the arab revolt forces under the leadership of king Faisal and fought along with Lawrence of Arabia during the Arab Revolt challenges I am (1917/18) to fight the occupying Turkish and German armies. Lawrence himself makes many references to Wadi Rum in his proud to be a book ‘The Seven Pillars of Wisdom. The exploits of Lawrence have become part of local folklore. Bedouin. Solomon / Wadi Rum Sky Virtually all the people living in and around Wadi Rum today are of Bedouin origin and, until recently, led nomadic lives, relying on their goat herds. They are resourceful, hospitable people who are largely responsible for developing Wadi Rum as a tourist destina-

68 the_verbose tion.Recognizing the unique natural and cultural history of Wadi Rum and the vital importance of tourism to the local economy, the government of Jordan declared Wadi Rum a protected area in 1998.

With support from the World Bank they commissioned the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, a national NGO, to prepare a conservation plan and build a team of local people to manage the area. This team is now under the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority and is pioneering ways to restore and safeguard Rum’s sensitive desert habitats from ever-increasing human pressure. Wadi Rum is a protected area covering 720 square kilometers of dramatic desert wilderness in the south of Jordan. Huge mountains of sandstone and granite emerge, sheer-sided, from wide sandy valleys to reach heights of 1700 meters and more. Narrow canyons and fissures cut deep into the mountains and many conceal ancient rock drawings etched by the peoples of the desert over millennia. Bed- ouin tribes still live among the mountains of Rum and their large goat-hair tents are a special feature of the landscape. Text in part by wadirum.jo

Solomon / Solomon runs a camp called Wadi Rum Sky. He was born in the Wadi Rum desert in a Bedouin tent and became a Bedouin because he grew up in the desert between the Bedouin families.

“The greatest memories when I was a child, are when we were having the food with our nap- pers and the old people were telling us stories...We have no ritual because we are muslim and I follow muslim styles. The beduoins sustain the skin of animals; they clean it first, and they use especially to keep them safe from the sun.“

wadirumsky.com @wadirumsky issue A : winter 2018 69 the_verbose // word on the street

The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way To Live Well by Meik Wiking

icon by Mani Amini

“Danes are the happiest people in Europe according to the European Social Survey...”

70 the_verbose WORD ON THE STREET

issue A : winter 2018 71 the_verbose // word on the street

M08RSA

maupal 08 rome street artist

72 the_verbose M08RSA

issue A : winter 2018 73 When something is on public domain, it is news. I strongly believe, there is a huge difference between art and decoration, vandalism and one’s propaganda (sometimes even just ‘art gallery’ is propaganda). It is our duty to translate what we are looking at and collect it in the right box. To do so, we should use our own knowledge and conscience.

74 the_verbose Beyond the churches, the cacio e sure. The mural, which depicts a MP / I absolutely didn’t expect pepe and the Colosseum, there’s heroic pop art version of Pope having such success with this im- some fresh paint on the walls of Francis, was an overnight success. age. The Super Pope was a spon- Rome. From the heart of Vatican The Vatican Communications taneous street art event. Before City to the corners of Testaccio, tweeted the artwork and within sticking it to the wall, I even had Pigneto and Ostiense, a current hours upon his return to the site, some reservations about doing it: of social and political street art is hundreds of journalists awaited I was depicting the Pope, illegally, penetrating the city as a modern him. not far away from the Vatican city. backdrop to the ruins. Mauro It could be potentially dangerous Pallotta is one particular leading I first discovered Signor Pal- for me as a person and for my Italian force in the scene whose lotta, aka MauPal, on my morning career as an artist. After the mural, latest work, Tump and the Atomic routine through Borgo Pio when I I haven’t changed the way I create Bomb #YesIcan, went up timely walked by his stencil, Revolution, street art, nor my media expec- last Fall. mice chasing a cat at the base tations. However, it is true that of a wall. Curious about him and from 2014, my art pieces gained The Roman native has been a his artwork, I reached out to the worldwide visibility. I am glad front row observer and participant artist to learn more about the man about it, because it means that the in the changes (and lack thereof) behind the murals. message of my work is universally throughout the romance and readable. distress of the eternal city. He is V / Upon the completion of Super known for Super Pope, posted Pope, did you anticipate the reac- around the corner from St. Peter’s tion and notoriety that this work Basilica, and for his original acrylic has gained? And did the suc- spray and wool steel technique cess of Super Pope impact your among his approaches to mixed approach to your work, or your mediums. Little did he know that following works knowing there his 2014 Super Pope would have was a much larger audience? paved the way for global expo-

issue A : winter 2018 75 the_verbose // word on the street

MAUPAL

V_ Tell me about your back- wish is to make simple art that ground, so we may better it is able to explain complex MP / I believe that Italy is understand some of your work. plots. In other words, I try to culturally too much linked to its What was growing up in Rome let people “read” the news via ancient time. That said, every like, and do you remember my artwork. To do so, my brush change is slower here than in certain events as a child? stroke is light, fun, ironic, and the other Eastern countries. I use Pop symbols and oxymo- In a way, my job aims to push MP / Growing up in the core rons. These are my means to a quicker “progress” to the centre of Rome has been a key let the audience think about society. With “progress”, I mean element to my education and what is surrounding us, and let awareness, modernization to an childhood. When you grow up them be involved with it. I hope equal social structure of society surrounded by art pieces and and believe, that using Pop and of public services. historical ruins, you develop an art, simple colours and brief aaesthetical inclination natu- concepts, I can make it easy to V _ What is it about street art rally. When I was 8, I realised understand the message for that makes news today? Do that Art could be for me the an audience with no interest in you think there is a line of dif- language to use if I wanted to politics. ferentiation between street as express myself, and so I started propaganda, as vandalism, art, drawing my relatives’ portraits. V_What are some of your favor- education, communication? However, I come from a very ite places to visit in Rome? What are your thoughts in gen- “common” family, and I don’t eral about street art around the have any artists in my genea- world as it continue to expand logic tree. with a cult following?

V_ When did you decide to MP / Globalization flattenedd pursue your education at the social classes. I have internet Academy of Fine Arts? on my mobile and so does the As a child, my parents sup- migrant beside me. That is a ported me drawing and playing simple example, but it makes with colours. Yet, when they MP / They are too many to list me feel like I am not that distant realized that I wanted to pursue here. I tell you just a couple of from him/her. We share some- a career as an artist, they tried my favourites: the Pantheon, thing we use in a day-to-day to stop me. They didn’t mean Santa Sabila al Oranges Garden routine and this makes us feel to be mean with me, but to pre- and Sant Clemente in Laterano. closer to one other. Turning art vent me from being economi- This very basilica allows you per- into something urban made cally frustrated. ceiving the historical stratifica- it available to everybody and tion I mentioned before. owned by everyone. Thanks to V_ As an artist, have you ever some artists such as Banksy, who found yourself overwhelmed V _ As a native, having spent face political and social themes, with ways to express your work time around the world and be- street art has been accepted as and your messages? Having a ing so committed to your city, something that concerns us all. strong political and social em- and your country, what do you phasis throughout your work, think has changed the most in do you find it imperative to the last five years about Italian consider your audience? culture? And how do you think art can retain the beauty of Ro- MP / My aim is to express man culture and the authentic- complex political and social ity of Italy? affairs in a simple way. My ROME 2015

76 the_verbose “Globalization flattenedd social classes. I have internet on my mobile and so does the migrant beside me. That is a simple example, but it makes me feel like I am not that distant from him or her.”

ROME 2015

issue A : winter 2018 77 78 the_verbose issue A : winter 2018 79 the_verbose // / word on the street

“When something is on public domain, it is news. I strongly believe there is a huge difference between art and decoration, vandalism and one’s propaganda (sometimes even just ‘art gallery’ is propaganda). It is our duty to translate what we are looking at and collect it in the right box. To do so, we should use our own knowledge and conscience.”

LONDON 2014

80 the_verbose LONDON 2014 V_ Who are some of your favourite street artists? V_ Pasolini, and Hitchcock, and the ROME Queen of England are among many 2015 MP / My favourite stencil artist is icons you have portrayed. Can these Banksy, and a muralist Borondo. They figures live on through artwork? are very different to each other and to What other great international fig- me. ures have you thought about depicting in street art? V_ How do you choose where to post your street art? You have pieces all MP / The intellectual Pasolini himself around Rome, talk about selecting the is so surprising and fresh that his final location. thoughts do still shock nowadays. He is so concrete and contemporary. I be- MP / I believe the right moment is lieve Pasolini can be compared only more important than the right place. with himself, but he can be depicted Let’s think about my Santa Claus de- and promoted by everyone. Art is a picted as a soldier in a battledress. But, way to do it. Referring to my next art it is true that I do care about finding the pieces, I can guarantee I will touch perfect location. Before fixing anything some other internationally recognized on wall, I look around to find the right icons, but I can’t tell you who! match, and I don’t do any art if I don’t find the right home for my piece. The message comes first, than the place.

mauropallotta.com @ maupal.artist

issue A : winter 2018 81 the_verbose // / word on the street

CURATED BY TAXIS & WALNUTS

chad hasegawa hawaii street art / painter @chadhasegawa

82 the_verbose koralie paris illustrator / street artist @realkoralie

shok-1 london aerosol x-ray street art @shok-1

issue A : winter 2018 83 the_verbose // / the internet of things

Himalayan Salt Lamp Improves air, sleep, allergies, energy and season affective disorder

icon by Anuar Zhumaev

84 the_verbose THE INTERNET OF THINGS

issue A : winter 2018 85 S10PCT

86 the_verbose samuel 10 S10PCT paris creative technologist

issue A : winter 2018 87 the_verbose // / the internet of things

Most emotionally intelligent consumers are very aware of their environment when making a purchase decision, online and in-person. Be- cause of increased sensories? Probably. More acute Pavlov- ian response to marketing? Maybe. With regard to all contributing factors, this heightened awareness gives brands a congenial opportunity to connect with people on a new emotional level: full on experiential.

It is precisely a creative technologist who can claim responsibility for these very experiences between humans and products. And when creativity enters, technology adapts if the right talent is in place.

Born in a room of young techies tasked to provide some entertainment for a work party, the project then called ‘Interactive Runner’ went from a warehouse in 2015 (enter Kinect software and gaming engine Unity3D) to music festival popup store (enter Fête de la musique) to Cannes Lion installation (enter RFID bracelet) to its most recent dream project realized: a video game in Webgl (Web Graphics Library associated with 2D-3D rendering). With a screen tap console the user, a flying geometric furball, orbits at galactic speed through a neon milky way which reacts to the beat of your movements creating a personalized soundtrack. Follow? Dodge the moon rocks and rack up those glow rings to collect points: It’s called the Pursuit of Sound

88 the_verbose Samuel Leroux is the millennial magic behind this joyride at Paris-based Biborg, a creative agency dedicat- ed to experiential design. It’s here where imagination comes to life and an A-team of developers patrol the pixels and the psyche, paving the tech turf for innova- tive human experiences. So we interviewed Samuel, to take our own joyride through the mind of a creative technologist.

V_ Start from the beginning: what was the purpose and the plan? Where did you imagine users engaging with the game? (office, bar, backseat of a car, in line, in bed, the bathroom?)

SAMUEL / The project Pursuit of Sound began in February 2015. It was not called ‘Pursuit of Sound’, it was just called ‘Interactive Runner’. It had been designed for a party with our clients. We wanted to propose a physical and interactive experience to enjoy the party a little bit more and to show what we were doing in the lab at Biborg. We decided to make a game, a runner, where you control the player with your hips and the goal being to avoid obstacles and catch items in order to increase your score.

SAMUEL

We worked with Kinect for the body detection and Unity3D, a game engine. We displayed the game on a Clear Channel screen. The type of game was not revolutionary because it was simply a runner, but with the body control, the experience was more interesting and more original for users.

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the game through a video projection directly on the After the success of Interactive Runner, we window of this popup store. There were more than 500 decided to deploy the game in a popup games played. It was also interesting for us to see how store for the “Fête de la Musique” in Paris. the people interacted directly with the installation and to have feedback in real time. It was new for us to work The idea was just to make something interac- on a physical installation. tive with people in the street. We adapted the game for this event by adding a music layer and renamed the project ‘Pursuit of Sound’. Following the “Fête de la With this update, users could control the sound and create their own track with differ- Musique”, we redesigned ent samples and combinations. When you catch an item, you always increase your score the game at Cannes Lions. and at the same time you enrich the music. The aim is also to go as far as you can and have the best score. In addition to the redesign, we changed the music and worked with Stereoplane, a French composer in The music was composed by ÖLF. We worked Paris and we added the possibility to save your score together directly to create different combi- with your name thanks to the RFID (Radio-Frequency nations. We connected Unity with Ableton Identification) bracelet from the festival. (professional DJ software) in MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) and the game We commercialized the game for the first time for worked like a MIDI controller for Ableton. OnePlus, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer. It was For this event, we covered a popup store deployed for a stand in the Geek’s Live event and O2 with stickers of the game and we displayed Tour in the UK. We redesigned the game once more in order to fit with the One Plus design.

90 the_verbose V_ As the At the same time, during the Cannes Lions and One plus creative events, we started exploring a new technology that we had been technologist, interested in for a long time : WebGL. Following some tests and was the experimentation we thought it was a good opportunity to fully realize outcome the game in order to allow players to play anywhere and to share this aligned with project all over the world. This was the beginning of Pursuit of your vision? Sound in Webgl. Samuel /

Yes, the outcome was V_How does aligned with the initial vision. The aim was to your team mea- have a game that works and looks like the original sure the impact, version. It was mainly a technical challenge to have or effectiveness a good performance with the same effects. The main of a project like creative and conceptual aspects were developed this? How are on the previous project - it was only an adaptation users encour- with some updates. We just had to find a good solution aged to share to control the game with a keyboard, mobile Google their music? Cardboard.

Samuel / To measure the impact, we use Google analytics to anal- yse visits and to see what works and doesn’t work; we can see who speaks about the game and we read user feedback on social networks. To receive feedback, we have requested votes on different award websites : FWA, Awwwards and css DesignAward. It’s an opportunity to receive feedback from users and especially from profes- sionals.

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“Children are already able to use a phone to play games when they are only 3 years of age. It’s a primitive usage but they are able to interact. Their relationships with technology and the internet will be very interesting over the next 20 years.”

SAMUEL

92 the_verbose V_What is something V_ What technologies that blows your mind were utilized to implement everyday? Does any- the design, audio, and mo- thing scare you? tion graphics?

Samuel / Samuel /

Time. I want more time to test to proto- We used web technologies to realize this project with type and to learn different technologies. Not different javascript libraries : ThreeJS for WebGL, very scare but surprised by the speed to use BodyMoving and TweenMax for animation, HowlerJS technologies for the next generation, children for audio, etc. are already able to use a phone to play games when they are only 3 years, it’s a primitive us- There were five of us working on this project, Mathilde age but they are able to interact. Jacon for the concepts, she has designed the look of the game and interfaces; Jeremy Devoos worked on Their relationships with technologies and the shaders and animations for the player and par- internet will be very interesting in the next 20 ticles; Nicolas Mathis created the 3D models; Karine years. For my generation I was born at the be- Miloudi worked on the copywriting and I worked on ginning of internet, I follow its building but for the technical part of the game : the engine, interfaces, this generation they had directly a developed animations, 3D integration and sound. internet a world where all is connect.

V_ How many people were V_ What are your involved in the making of daily news sources? this?

Samuel / Samuel / I use Twitter, Facebook and VK very often. I We have different people who punctually help us on also developed a platform with a chrome ex- different parts of the project. When the project is ex- tension to share links inside the agency, clas- perimental, we always try to involve different people sified by tags and categories. It allows us to in the agency. have a collaborative monitoring of the news.

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SAMUEL

V_ For those new to the terms Samuel / A lot of my time is and UI are the first feelings with UX /UI - will you provide us consumed with my work - I am your product before the service with your best description and constantly thinking and creating is rendered. what makes great UX/UI? outside of work. I’m really pas- sionate about my job and I have V_And do you believe experi- Samuel / In my opinion, UI is to always be aware of what is ential design has the power to what you see between you and new, how the things work anhow impact decision making? the machine. It’s visually what to mix technology in order to your interface looks like. UX, is imagine new interactions and Samuel / Yes, experiential design the comfort. You are able to find new concepts. At home, I try to has the power to impact decision what you want, the organization work on personal projects I have making. An experience and a is efficient, the interactions with in my mind but it’s not always design are a vector of emotion. the machine are simple and the easy to have the time. When you are able to share an service given by the machine is emotion with a user you directly clear and easy to understand. V_ Have advancements in UX impact his decision. At Biborg we According to me, UX has to be and interactive design made are experiencing continuously, logical and simple to use and to life more interesting? it’s in our DNA. understand for your target. Samuel / The advancements in V_How much of user experi- You have to be able to know UX and interactive design have ence is non-verbal? why you choose to click, why you made life more interesting and choose to swipe, why you place obviously more comfortable. It Samuel / Most of our clients are this button here, why you choose in entertainment so their audi- this wording… And if you are not ence needs to interact, to play, to able to use what is better you be surprised in order to live a real can prototype to test the best experience. The non-verbal user solution directly on users Before experiences are the interactions, you begin your UX strategy, the the user transposes a thought most important thing is to iden- / a decision directly through an tify and to know your audience interaction. An interaction can be in order to give them the best a click, a swipe, a body move- possible answers. ment, a displacement, a facial allows us to have the best inter- movement…And now you can V_ How much of your daily faces, to reduce the friction and also interact with your thoughts life is consumed with your the understanding between the wearing a neuronal headset. The profession? Are you constantly humans and technology. electrical signal is generated by thinking and creating outside your thoughts are directly anal- of work? The more efficient the UX and ysed to create defined interac- the UI, the easier it is to under- tions on an interface. stand the service and users are more satisfied by the service. UX

94 the_verbose And now you can also interact with your thoughts wearing a neuronal headset. The electrical signal is generated by your thoughts are directly analysed to create defined interactions on an interface.

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Samuel / V_ When planning We used web technologies to realize this project with a project, do you ap- different javascript libraries : ThreeJS for WebGL, BodyMoving and TweenMax for animation, HowlerJS proach the project as a for audio, etc. There were five of us working on this project, Mathilde Jacon for the concepts, she has user yourself? Do your designed the look of the game and interfaces; own emotional pref- Jeremy Devoos worked on the shaders and animations for the player and particles; Nicolas Mathis erences influence the created the 3D models; Karine Miloudi worked on the copywriting and I worked on the technical part of the overall experience? game : the engine, interfaces, animations, 3D integration and sound.

We have different people who punctually help us on different parts of the project. When the project is experimental, we always try to involve different people in the agency.

V_ When you are not Samuel / working, where can (You can find me) in Nantes, Paris or London; at the we find you? Also, cinema, playing rugby, drinking beers with friends… I have been graduated for 1 year and I am at Biborg for what were you doing over 3 years. (Previously) I did internships at startups and agencies. I also realized websites during my stud- leading up to Biborg? ies at HETIC, especially through datavisualization with Eurosport for the FIFA world cup in 2014.

96 the_verbose V_ How was your Samuel / experience on this The experience of this project was different than a classic project because we had no client brief. So, it project different from was completely free and without any restrictions. We decided what we wanted to do. Usually, I work on pro- previous UX projects totype, conception, I test new technologies so it was a prototype ++ nearby a production. you’ve worked on? Did It was a project with a new technology so it was you learn new things sometimes difficult because we had to learn a lot and we didn’t know when we started a feature if it was along the way? possible or not. When you discover a new technology along the project, you depend of what you are able to realize. When I developed a feature maybe the next week I have to redevelop this feature with my last discovers. In this case, during the development, the project has changed a lot. For example, at the beginning, I used 3D models for mountains, finally I realized it was better to generate directly with code and algorithm for terrain generation my own model. It was more flexible, I could random the mountains and animate them. This example shows that, with differ- ents technical methods, you can improve the design and the experience. It’s really important to test and learn in order to improve your project, especially when it’s an experimental project.

Yes I learnt new things on this project, it was my first WebGL project so I learnt this technology, I also learnt in conception, UX, UI, Shaders, Game design, sound design, etc.

biborg.com @samyetscooby

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CURATED BY ELAINE GILRUTH

@NOWNESS

new york

lvmh group nowness.com

98 the_verbose @HLZBLZ los angeles lawn alabanza-barcena hlzblz.com

@HOBOPEEBA moscow kristina makeeva ipai.ru

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Miroslava Duma CEO, Founder Future Tech Lab ftlab.com

icon by Lluisa Iborra

“A disruptive movement of innovators bridging together fashion and science to create a sustainable future.”

100 the_verbose TURN IT UP

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N09BDJ

niklas 09 berlin dj

102 the_verbose issue A : winter 2018 103 the_verbose // turn it up

The Blues and Beauty of a Young Berlin DJ. Black Tea and Porridge for breakfast, and some Kid Cudi in the buds. This is the story of When I was a kid I wanted to become one of Berlin’s novel music talents. the boss of Mercedes Benz. Earlier this year, 22-year old Stuttgart born Niklas Ibach produced what is now on nearly every radio station throughout Europe, The Blues feat. Dan Reeder. But it isn’t only the old soul vocals and introspective vibes that make the multi-instrumentalist interesting. The Berlin-based DJ represents a wide range of backgrounds and fuses his childhood, inspirations, and everyday life into an avant-garde approach to electronic music.

Somewhere between his love for Pulp Fiction, Blow, the Godfather and The White Book by Rafael Horizon, Niklas finds narrative. And between his childhood piano days and the ambient of jazz and opera, he finds soul. And over the years frequenting Rocker 33 and chasing giants like Alle Farben and Wankelmut, he has found his vibe.

The culture enthusiast and vinyl junkie made a grand debut last fall with “Hungry” which went far from unnoticed.

After an in depth exchange with the artist on his life, views, and habits, we learns that not only does he have few regrets, “Negative experiences are just as important as the good ones...” but he’s also the king of collaboration on and off music.

104 the_verbose When I was a kid I wanted to become the boss of Mercedes Benz.

V_ Before your music career and Berlin, did you have other career aspirations?

Niklas / When I was a kid I wanted to become the boss of Mercedes Benz. I always liked that idea and thought this could be cool, but I was very young back then. Besides that childish dream, I never had a real career aspiration. Music and sports have always been a part of me and at some point I knew it was going to be music and I am very happy with that.

saeed kakavand

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NIKLAS

V_ What was the magic moment V_What are some of your bad V_What do you love the most when you began to recognize habits? Niklas / I get nervous and about the city, people, the cul- your work as successful? tired if something doesn’t work the ture? Niklas / In general I love all way I want it to. Especially when I’m different parts of Berlin: Especially Niklas / That‘s a tough question. making music. Sometimes I am a in Kreuzberg, you’ll always find a Of course, from the beginning on really impatient person. Everything beautiful spot close to the water- I had goals in my mind. I thought has to be done quickly. But I think front of Landwehrkanal. Most of all, after achieving them I would be I’m improving myself to be more I appreciate Berlin for its diversity of happy and successful. But these laid back in those situations. At the people and cultures. goals kept getting bigger. It’s so moment I like to party, if it’s a bad easy to lose an objective point of habit or not - I don’t know yet. You can be yourself and won’t be view. judged for physical characteristics, fashion, sexual orientation or profes- I tend to measure my success on sion. You are one of thousands and the achievement of my next goal. you can do whatever you want. Success became clear to me when That’s something I really enjoy and I realized that a lot of my friends go appreciate a lot. Especially subcul- to university or work. They follow tures are highly developed in Berlin. a regular daily routine. That feels They are often separated, but in strange sometimes because I know Berlin they are deeply connected that I haven’t chosen the safest to the society and the everyday life. path. This is one of the reasons it never V_Before hitting the club, do gets boring. V_Where were you when you you have a routine or a ritual first heard your song Hungry on to warm up? Niklas / The last 5 V_When you’re mixing and the radio, and how did you re- minutes before I hit the DJ desk I al- producing music, what goes act? Niklas / In my car on the way ways want to be on my own. In that through your mind? Do you home. I was in a very good mood, moment I try to assess the mood of have visuals that motivate your turned up the volume and smoked the audience and think of the first rhythm? Niklas / No. I always a cigarette. two songs I’m going to play. play and play and play. If a chord or a melody sounds good, the rest V_What was your experience V_ What are some of your fa- happens automatically. The art is like working with different artists vourite places in Berlin? to hear a melody and the ability to such as Anna Leyne and Möwe Niklas / I can’t really tell what are imagine a picture behind the music, or Dotan? Niklas / So far I have my favourite places in Berlin. Berlin quasi to be able to imagine ‘the only had positive experiences in is such a creative and constantly dress’. working with other artists. To com- evolving city with so much to dis- plement each other and of course cover. In general, for me it depends V_What is one of the greatest to benefit from one another is a big a lot on the people, who are creat- challenges in your life at the mo- plus. For me it doesn’t matter so ing/visiting those places. ment? Or any challenges with much who stands in front of me, it’s having a music career? more of a good vibe between us, Niklas / Life itself is the greatest which counts. If it fits, it fits. struggle.

106 the_verbose The last 5 minutes before I hit the DJ desk I always want to be on my own. In that moment I try to assess the mood of the audience and think of the first two songs I’m going to play.

photo from Melt Festival / cred IG: @niklasibach

issue A : winter 2018 107 the_verbose // turn it up photo from Loft Club, Mannheim, Germany / cred IG: @niklasibach Loft Club, Mannheim, Germany / cred photo from

V_Dream collab? You can be yourself and Niklas / That would be Giorgio Moroder.

won’t be judged for V_A sneak peak into a day in you life? Niklas / I am more of a night person. When I get up, usually physical characteristics, around noon, I start my day with a black tea, responding to e-mails and working on the To do’s I get from my management. fashion, sexual In the afternoon I like to do sports or taking a walk. Whilst and in between I hear a lot of music. Sometimes I spend the whole day orientation or profession. searching for new music, my vinyl record collection is growing everyday and of course I work on improving my mixing tech- You are one of thousands niques as vinyl DJ.

and you can do whatever In general, I think it is essential for a musician, to know as much as possible about music. Since I was little, I am used to listening you want. That’s to Jazz, Classic and the latest music likewise. At night, I start producing music. Remixes, running orders, singles ect. something I really enjoy V_The DJ look. Where do you like to shop for clothes or and appreciate a lot. do you spend time on your image before a performance? Niklas / To be honest I do not have a favourite store or brand. It’s not so much of importance to me.

108 the_verbose photo cred : saeed kakavand V_Do you live by yourself? Niklas / No, I moved to Berlin with a good friend. We have a shared flat in Neukölln. From March on I’ll have a brand new music studio in Kreuzberg. Really looking forward to it.

V_Do you believe your music has the power to inspire and and influence listeners? Niklas / Of course! Or at least, I hope so ;) Music has an influence that you can’t draw yourself away from. Something happens, subconsciously or consciously. If good or bad is another question ;)

V_What is one of your best memories growing up? Niklas / Imagination. Everything was possible, the whole world was a playground.

V_What are some of the technologies you use to mix your sound? Niklas / I use Ableton as a music program but I still have analog hardware. Among others I use a Korg Vocoder Synth, a Roland 303 and a MC 303 for the drums.

V_How do you know when a track is complete, and what are your goals when you are making a new song? Niklas / I never know. I often I think it’s done and after- wards I think the opposite. It’s very important to let go at some point and say: ‘’Okay, that’s it!’’. Sometimes doubts or possible improve- ments would cause negative energy or a damage to the original sound.

V_What is next for you in your music career? Niklas / To make lasting steps with my team.

niklasibach.com @niklasibach

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CURATED BY STEFANIA CASIRAGHI

louis berry liverpool indie rock / alt rock louisberryofficial.com

110 the_verbose bonzai dublin electronic bonzaibonzaibonzai.com

klara lewis sweden electro klaralewis.com

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SAKS POTTS Barbara Potts & Cathrine Saks sakspotts.com

Icon by Scott Witthoft

“Unavoidable of the year”

112 the_verbose SIDESTREET SPLENDOR

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114 the_verbose DIESEL LIVING Space Life Meets Desert Modernism

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Bronze Astronauts. Aged Jute. Egyptian Cobras. 3-D Studded Wood Tiles + Cosmic Dinnerware.

Meet space life and Desert Modernism. And we’re talking about interior design. Earlier this year, the Italian denim heavy- weight Diesel took a dip into home decor with their friends at Fuorisalone, an eso- teric tangent from Milan’s Furniture Design Fair (Salone del Mobile).

We tracked down the Diesel Living pop-up store off a sidestreet near Piazza Duomo. Through a wearied 1930s-era archway and to the back across the gravel, a narrow wooden door greeted the curious. Sunlit and sparkling, you could hear a pin drop. There were few visitors, but every object and arrangement was bursting at the seams with a rock chic invi- tation to stay and indulge. Sultry, extravagant, hedonistic and 5-star functionality, the Diesel Palazzo was the quintessential hybrid between affluent design and the unforgiving DNA of Diesel’s main man, Renzo Rosso.

But the jean sequence doesn’t stop at this industrial love nest. Italian forces Deisel and Scavolini together with Australia’s Euroluce continued the design affair with their Pretty Vacancy hotel. Also, displayed during Milan’s Design Week, the California-desert inspired hotel shows off its functional maximalism with a lineup of materials and colors evocative of a 1960s roadtrip. Again, we’re talking about interior design.It’s no surprise that we aren’t over it yet. Get in.

116 the_verbose issue A : winter 2018 117 118 the_verbose ITALY 2017

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ITALY 2017

DIESEL LIVING

120 the_verbose “This year, we are interpreting our first hotel concept. Step up to the reception and check in to a cozier world of hospitality, where domestic comfort wel- comes you with the glamour of a fabulous roadside hideaway amid the heat of the desert, and utilitarian details blend with hedonistic abandon.”

it.diesel.com/it/living @dieselliving

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T07MS

trevor 07 malta sailor / marine biologist

122 the_verbose T07MS

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It was’t until after I met Trevor, that I realised how difficult it was to meet Trevor. Unless you are strolling along Malta’s Ta’Xbiex on a summer weekday, or reeling up sails off the Filfa, meeting “the Viking” as his mates call him, could be a long shot.

I consider myself among the fortunate to have discovered this artist and marine researcher having now learned of his great beauty and experiences over months of careful exchanges.

For over 30 years Trevor has been working as an engineer and researcher in the Maltese Ar- chipelago. Malta, home to some of the world’s most intricate and complex history, topography and marine life - it holds the second highest number of UNESCO sites - can only fully be realised through the eyes of the natives and locals.

Up by 7am and bedside with a red by 9pm, Trevor’s passion for sea and the vastness of life comes out over our brief exhanges in person, via email, and written letters. An avid painter, a Mozart aficionado and a light eater, Trev the Viking sets a great example of how to live large by small and with “the wonder of it all, to stay in this beautiful place.”

Trevor left school at age 15 and has had a varied and somewhat unconventional career. At 20, he was studying ship building and marine technology. Predominantly self-taught throughout his life, he was initially trained in stain glass window production, having renovated a number of windows in churches throughout his career. He spent three years in electro technology with installations of 240-440 volt systems.

124 the_verbose “I came to Malta as a V_How is your work different today from when you first began? T_The tech has changed but it is still a lot of hard work, and I chief engineer and mine think the more I realise that I know nothing of what really is. sweeper to overhaul V_What are some marine technologies that you work with? T_ Some of the technology is still very traditional and basic but the engines and it works. Now with some of the new camera and sound record- ing systems which are just amazing and improving all the time, engineering systems.” much of the things that help with some aspects of our interest are solar powered with a high-tech link for data analysis.

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V_How dramatic does marine life and your research change with the seasons and the time of day? T_What I have learned is that because there is such change within the environment, generally, I think that to get reasonably reliable data, if possible, any study should be done over as long a time as possible.

V_ What is your favorite marine animal? T_Most definitely the cuttlefish. It’s just a total miracle. Very often they will interact with you until they get really angry with the situation and just disappear, leaving you knowing that you have just spent a few moments with one of the most intelligent creatures in the ocean. Just magic. Apart from the Dolphins and the Whales there are millions of them (cuttlefish).

V_Has your work in Malta ever overlapped with the influx of migrant arrivals? Have you encountered stories or the journeys of those arriving from Northern Africa or further East? “I have not long ago came T_I have seen with sadness the results of this situation. back from Thailand where V_You are a painter. How and where did you I was asked to go and begin to paint, and what are some of the inspirations in your paintings? teach the beautiful people T_When I was away on the fishing boat, I used to paint water colour pictures and send of Thailand to sail a lovely them to my daughter Denise, basically based on what was around us wherever we were. teak replica of a 100-foot I generally only paint seascape pictures so I think it mostly comes from within and what I traditional fishing have seen and experienced.

schooner for the king of V_What is one of your greatest memories at sea? Thailand’s birthday T_Being on the sea, fishing at night and seeing the sea totally on fire with the most parade. For me it was a life beautiful iridescent greens; and when you go into a head sea and the wave explodes in changing experience and I the most beautiful show of nature’s very own light. am awaiting my return.

Trevor Malta

126 the_verbose “I have learned well that the oceans are just so beautiful but command the greatest respect; you lose this respect at your peril - even the storms and the gales have their beauty, some terrifying to be in, but wow, the immense power and wonder of it all is just amazing.”

- Trevor “The Viking”

Trevor Malta

issue A : winter 2018 127 theverbose.com 2017. Born in California and cultivated between Rome and Dubai, the_verbose is a magazine project in the making: interviewing people along the way about their art and culture. We ask, you tell. Interested in pitching your story? Need a place to let your inner journalist out? The door is open: [email protected]

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