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Last posts

Jewellery, the symbolic objects that identify us. Part 1

Mónica Boixeda Istanbulite, Only-Be

For many people jewellery is nothing more than mere decoration, an accessory to enliven an outfit or something that we only use on special occasions. We might see a ring or pendant in a jewellery store that we like it we and buy it because it combines well with dress that we have, but did you ever think the meaning of jewellery in our culture or as part of our identity? In ancient cultures, especially in ancient Egypt, jewellery symbolized the status of the person, and had different meanings according to religion and its uses. The jewels were used in some rituals and were understood to give power as amulets or served on the other hand as links to different gods. Their power was believed in part to derive from the materials they were made of. Some jewellery also indicated official or military status, besides being a fundamental part of personal image and beauty. In almost all ancient cultures the use of jewellery symbolized the social status of the person, in addition to its religious and magical meanings, but it is only today that the use of jewellery, at least in Western societies, it shows our individual tastes and is part of our personal identity. Today there are many different types of jewellery and these are more often than not used as markers of social affiliation or as status symbols, especially in the case of the most exclusive jewellery and precious stones. Our jewellery speaks for us, and clearly defines our tastes and our lifestyles. Thus we find practices like piercing and body-modification used by urban subcultures such as... read more

Hussein Chalayan: 1994 – 2010

Mónica Boixeda Istanbulite, Only-Be

Chalayan is an internationally recognized fashion designer who is known for his innovative use of materials, meticulous pattern cutting and progressive attitude to new technology. Since the launch of his own label in 1994 he has produced more than 20 collections and he won the award British Designer of the Year twice in a row (1999, 2000). Chalayan’s designs are inspired by architectural theories, science and technology. He has even produced a collection which included chairs and tables that became garments. To him fashion is an area of exploration and he is motivated by political, social and economic realities. His designs have a philosophical component as well. Besides fashion collections, he makes installations, directs short films and designs costumes for stage. Previously presented at the Design Museum, London and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, this touring exhibition curated by Donna Loveday brings together fashion collections, installations and films produced by Hussein Chalayan between the years 1994 and 2010. The selected works reflect Chalayan’s views on a range of current themes including genetics, technological progress, displacement, migration and cultural identity. The exhibition features the following works by Hussein Chalayan: Temporary Interference, Inertia, Airmail Dress, Panoramic, Aeroplane Dress (Echoform), Compassion Fatigue, After Words, Temporal Meditations, Ambimorphous, Absent Presence, Readings, Before Minus Now, Manifest Destiny, Genometrics, Repose, Place to Passage, Geotropics, Blindscape, One Hundred and Eleven, Anaesthetics, Airborne, Earthbound, Dolce far Niente, Kinship Journeys, Micro Geography, and The Tunnel. Having his roots in Turkey, Istanbul is fertile ground for an exhibition of this amazing artist and designer. Don’t waste time. Rent apartments in Istanbul to explore this city... read more

Merce party Barcelona

Mónica Boixeda Barcelonian, Only-Be

Welcome the best barcelona music festival which will bring together a variety of genres, from folk to rock, to hip hop, pop, and even rumba. Like always, organizers have ensured that they are the most interesting and relevant bands on the current music scene. This year, for example, some of the most anticipated groups are the mythical Goldfrapp, Maika Makovksi, Nueva Vulcano, El Guincho … As the schedule is not yet completely closed, we will introduce the groups have already confirmed their participation in the BAM to give you an idea of what to expect in the 2010 edition of BAM. Goldfrapp: Sure, for many the legendary IDM duo Goldfrapp needs no introduction. Led by the lovely Alison Goldfrapp, this group has became known over the last decade for their intelligent and sensual electro dance, or as described by BAM organizers “pop with tights and an extra helping of neon.” Maika Makovksi: BAM is not only one of the most anticipated indie festivals for its international programming, but because it is known for supporting and promoting musical culture in Spain. One of those players in the Spanish indie scene is the Mallorcan rock vocalist Maika Makovski, who will present her third album on the stage at BAM. El Guincho: Three years ago, Reixa Pablo Diaz, known as El Guincho, swept Spain and the international indie scene with his debut album Alegranza, an exquisite fusion of tropicalia, electronics, pop and dance, which placed him among the largest in the alternative music scene with the likes of Panda Bear and Animal Collective. His new album Black, will surely make you shake... read more