“We don’t sell watches, we sell art pieces,” is what CEO of BOVET, Pascal Raffy told me over lunch at the BOVET Story Exhibition. And for years, that's exactly what they've done—creating timepieces so exquisite you'd be forgiven for thinking they belong in a museum rather than on your wrist. This focus on artistry is precisely why everyday-wear timepieces are a rarity for the brand. However, after years of requests from collectors and customers, Raffy finally decided to break tradition with a daily timepiece that somehow manages to still retain that air of artistry. Introducing the Récital 12, BOVET's first-ever bracelet timepiece.
Two years. That's how long BOVET spent researching and developing a bracelet that would meet the house’s standards. Crafted from grade 5 titanium—a material known for its strength and corrosion resistance—the watch is not only durable but also remarkably lightweight. Its density is only 60 per cent of stainless-steel, making it weigh nearly half of a hypothetical stainless-steel counterpart. But now, onto the main selling point.
The subtle lustre and smooth finish of the bracelet lends a sophisticated look to the timepiece. It features a V-shaped design, borrowing from the “V” in BOVET which contours the wrist, creating a slimming effect. Interestingly, when the clasps are folded, it forms an infinity symbol.
The links are engineered to move independently and feature an expansion mechanism allowing up to 3mm of adjustability throughout the day, ensuring a perfect drape on any wrist.
They say the eyes are the window to the soul, but the Récital 12 lays its soul bare for all to see. The 13BMDR12C2 calibre is a brand-new movement that’s been flipped on its belly to bring the intricate mechanics typically hidden on the caseback to the forefront. With a power reserve of seven days or 168 hours and a sweeping arched power indicator at 12 o'clock, the movement is both capable and visually striking.
At a glance, the face of the timepiece looks pretty convoluted, but closer inspection reveals a balanced horizontal symmetry within the inner workings of the Récital 12. The hour and minute hands rest on a dial that stands alone like an island—which are available in dark blue, emerald green, or turquoise lacquered guilloché.
As a testament to Raffy's vision of BOVET watches as wearable art pieces, the three-pronged seconds wheel breaks convention by sitting outside the dial among the exposed gear wheels at 9 o'clock. This deliberate deconstruction of traditional watch design elements creates a visual dialogue, leaving room for artistic interpretations—but I’ll leave that for you to ponder its meaning.
Felipe Pantone, who cut his teeth spray-painting walls as a pre-teen graffiti artist has become a global sensation for his bold, kinetic creations. His signature style, characterised by vibrant colour gradients, geometric shapes, and optical illusions that seem to vibrate and move with the viewer’s perspective has now found its way onto a new canvas: the ZENITH DEFY Skyline Tourbillon.
Limited to a mere 100 pieces, the DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone retains pretty much everything you loved from the original model, but with a few twists. It features a 41mm octagonal stainless steel case and showcases a tourbillon mechanism with a lightning bolt bridge—a recurring motif in Pantone's art—executed in a stunning gradient of metallic rainbow tones. The watch dial, crafted from sapphire, displays a micro-engraved pattern that creates a moiré visual effect, adding to its hallucinogenic nature. Then again, time itself is a dizzying concept, so this piece makes a fitting tribute.
In this interview with Pantone, we delve into the mind of one of contemporary art’s most daring innovators and discover how he transforms a timepiece into a kinetic masterpiece.
ESQUIRE SINGAPORE: What were the biggest challenges and rewards of this collaborative process?
FELIPE PANTONE: One of the biggest challenges was finding the perfect balance between honouring the technical mastery of Zenith and infusing it with my artistic vision. Watchmaking is a field steeped in tradition, and pushing boundaries within that framework required a lot of careful consideration. However, the reward was immense—seeing a concept that originated in my mind take shape in such a finely crafted, functional object. It’s not just art you can see, but art you can wear and experience in a very personal way.
ESQ: What do you hope the watch will evoke in people who wear it?
FP: I hope it serves as a reminder of the dynamic, ever-changing world we live in. The watch is more than just a timepiece; it's a symbol of energy, transformation, and the blending of past and future. I want people to feel a sense of movement, not just in the mechanics of the watch, but in their own lives as they navigate through time.
ESQ: How did you balance personal expression with the commercial expectations of the watch industry?
FP: Balancing personal expression with commercial expectations is always a tightrope walk. But I see it as a challenge that can lead to innovation. For this project, I focused on how my style could complement the craftsmanship of Zenith, rather than overshadow it. The key was to stay true to my aesthetic while also respecting the heritage and precision that Zenith is known for. It’s about creating a dialogue between art and industry, where both can thrive.
ESQ: Can you describe a eureka moment you had during the design process?
FP: The eureka moment for me was when I realised how to integrate the lightning bolt motif into the tourbillon bridge. It’s a recurring element in my work that symbolizes energy and speed, and it fit perfectly into the watch’s design language. This wasn’t just a visual enhancement—it was a conceptual bridge between my art and the intricate mechanics of watchmaking. That moment was like seeing two worlds come together seamlessly.
ESQ: Are there any other mediums you'd like to explore in the future?
FP: Absolutely, I’m always looking to push the boundaries of where my art can go. Architecture and interior design are already in my sights with Casa Axis, but I’m also fascinated by virtual and augmented reality. These are mediums that allow for an entirely new kind of interaction with art—one that can be immersive and multi-sensory. It’s the next frontier for blending the digital with the physical in a way that challenges perceptions.
ESQ: How do you overcome creative blocks?
FP: I find that stepping away from the work and immersing myself in other forms of creativity often helps. Whether it’s listening to music, traveling, or even just spending time in nature, these experiences tend to unlock something in my mind. Sometimes the solution isn’t to push through the block but to change your perspective until the path forward becomes clear again.
ESQ: What book, film, or piece of music has had a profound impact on you recently?
FP: Roxy Music’s "In Every Dream Home a Heartache" has been on my mind a lot lately. The song starts off as a reflection on materialism and the hollow pursuit of perfection, but then it takes an unexpected, almost eerie twist. That shift from something seemingly mundane to something profoundly unsettling is fascinating to me. It’s a reminder that what we see on the surface is often just a façade, and that the deeper layers are where the real story lies. That kind of unexpected transformation is something I strive to capture in my own work.
The DEFY Skyline Tourbillon Felipe Pantone is limited to 100 pieces that will be available from ZENITH online and physical boutiques, as well as with select retailers, worldwide from 12 September at 14:00 CEST
In a small and relatively young country like Singapore, the art scene has often struggled to gain widespread recognition. Frequently dismissed as a path with "no future" or "too difficult to pursue", many individuals particularly from more traditional households can relate to the challenges of pursuing a career in the arts. However, thanks to the efforts of progressive advocates or "woke folks", we are witnessing a shift in attitudes—where the arts are beginning to receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve. As this support continues to grow, we're excited to dedicate an entire weekend to celebrating Singapore's vibrant and evolving art scene.
Discover the themes of human existence and self-awareness at this immersive exhibition by local artists Amanda Tan @em.pyreal and Irsyad Ishak @sssssssyad.
"ST8TES OF BEING" explores our relationship with time, perception and self amid uncertainty and chaos. The exhibition offers artistic reflections on existence and connection to the human experience, fostering self-expression enhanced by multiscreen displays, interactive cinema, and immersive audio.
When: Till 15 September, open everyday except for Mondays
Where: UltraSuperNew Gallery, 169 Tyrwhitt Road S207572
Ever buy random things just because they're cute? Don't worry, you're not alone. I like to think I'm making a big contribution to the art scene by supporting local artists (that's how you girl-math your purchases). This weekend, Super Freak's Art Market is bringing together some incredibly talented artists. Here are few of the creators who will have booths at the event.
Embracing the spirit of tennis, where "Love" represents a fresh start and endless potential, @loveisnothing_official is a collaboration between multidisciplinary artist @kiat_sg and textile design studio @yabaiyabi__. Together, they've designed a tennis-inspired apparel line that works both on and off the court. Their shared goal is to craft pieces that celebrate tennis while sharing a positive message about life's endless possibilities. The result is a fresh, everyday wardrobe staple.
For vibrant and, might I add, absolutely adorable tattoos, @almostasthma's flash collection is a must-get at the market.
On stage, @laddieoscarwild dazzles as the sword-wielding drag prince with a flawless winged eyeliner and fierce eye for visuals. Off stage, they transform into the talented court painter, @mad_hatter_micycle. From quirky stickers and vibrant prints to original art, fan creations and even live commissions, make sure to check-out "That Drag Artist."
When: 7 September, 7-11PM
Where: 61 Stamford Road, #01-02 Singapore 178892
Off the Wall, a sustainable art exhibition by Art Outreach returns with its second edition, "Nourish", showcasing live mural paintings by local artists Charmaine Chen, Lee Wan Xiang and Wu Yanrong. Transforming the walls into vibrant canvases, exploring the theme of food and nourishment through diverse, imaginative murals. From shared meals to culinary traditions, each mural tells a unique story, highlighting the cultural and personal significance of food. The murals will later be converted into fine art prints available for purchase, with the proceeds benefitting both the artists and Art Outreach's non-profit programmes.
When: Till 22 September
Where: Art Outreach, 5 Lock Road, #01-06, Gillman Barracks, Singapore 108933
To start things off, music is an art form, and that includes DJing. It's all about inclusivity, right? Known for their signature 5 to ("2") 10PM Sunday Messes, 5210PM MUSIC is throwing an epic birthday bash with tunes that match their unique, swaggy vibes. This time, they're switching it up with a Saturday event, collaborating with local DJs @bongomann_ and @kevinsygroove. Let's remember, the 5210PM crew started their journey in their bedrooms and have grown tremendously since. Cheers to self-made DJs!
When: 7 September
Where: The Southern Depot, 43 Malan Road, Singapore 109443
This is my take but I encourage you to see if you agree. Tucked away in Robertson Quay, Carnaby is the brainchild of The Goodburger and former Potato Head executive chef Adam Penney. It's a modern British gastropub—or what I like to call the 'atas' version of the classic pubs (think Wetherspoons—if you're familiar.) But rest assured, the food here is top-notch. Every component, from sauces to bread, is crafted in-house, guaranteeing an authentic and memorable dining experience.
Fish pie isn't something you often find in Singapore, but contrary to expectations, it's one of Carnaby's bestsellers. Reminiscent of Shephred's pie, its crust is broiled to golden, crispy perfection, while the inside is soft and creamy, filled with chunks of smoked herring, haddock and golden snapper mixed with seasonal vegetables. And just so you know, all the fish used in their dishes are imported daily from local farms—meaning the fish was likely swimming just hours before it landed on your plate.
When the chef is a former executive head chef of Potato Head and partners with The Goodburger, you know you're in for a good burger. Their menu is extensive, but here are some recommendations: for starters, try the Ox Tomato Salad, featuring Rockstar cheddar aged for 18 months. For mains, the Carnaby Burger (obviously), Steak & Guinness Pie, and to finish off, indulge in Eton Is A Mess where they hand-make the meringues.
When: August onwards
Where: 60 Robertson Quay, #01-01 Singapore 238252
Book your reservations here
Looking for a reason to indulge in some shopping? Discover Burberry's newly revamped store at Marina Bay Sands. This location is the first in Southeast Asia to feature the exclusive Rocking Horse Tote bag in leather. Introduced in Burberry's Winter 2023 collection, this bag has already been spotted on brand ambassador Bright in the Rocking Horse campaign. The store spans two stories, with walls drpated in plush carpets and hand-tufted rugs, all dyed in Burberry's signature knight blue by British textile artist Tom Atton Moore. The space is also adorned with wooden tables showcasing the organic, sculptural works of artist Casey McCafferty.
When: August onwards
Where: #B1-103 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
Returning to Bras Basah.Bugis (BBB) this weekend, the Singapore Night Festival celebrates the theme Art of Play. The event will feature a range of experiences and exhibitions that pay homage to the district's history as the birthplace of some of Singapore's earliest schools. Iconic projection artworks and night light installations will return, enhanced with a touch of nostalgia cherished by many Singaporeans.
One of the standout installations is Delulu High by Pop Glitterfreak Collective, located at Bugis Street Art Lane. This piece reimagines school memories as a vibrant, safe and reflective haven. It transforms a lively gymnasium—often associated with intensity and competition—into a space that feels light, soft and feminine. Festival-goers can also explore the Disco Bus and Affirmation Steps, both designed to transform the dreaded aspects of school life into playful and healing experiences.
Here's the highlight act you can't miss whilst at the festival—Wonder World—The Machine of Nostalgia, organised by Sam Lo "SKL0", famous for his satirical street stickers. This experience captures the enchanting magic of Singapore's 1950s "Great World" amusement parks, encouraging visitors to ponder on the balance between preserving heritage and embracing modernity, and the role of nostalgia in contemporary society. Wonder World offers an immersive experience with retro amusement park rides, game stalls, food and beverages that evoke childhood memories.
Throughout the precinct, Festival Villages will offer food, shopping and live performances, making it a lively and engaging event for all.
When: 23 August-7 September
Where: Bras Basah, Bugis
Expertly crafted from the rice farms in Niigata, Japan, NORMAT's 'AGAINST THE GRAIN' sake blends the region's celebrated brewing heritage with a modern Singaporean twist. Created with the goal of complementing the diverse palette of local and international dishes in Singapore, NORMAT brings tradition and innovation together.
The Junmai Daiginjo, made with 100 per cent Koshitanrei rice and pure mountain water, offers a perfect harmony of sweetness and a hint of mellow fruity aroma. Meanwhile, the Tokubetsu Junmai, featuring a rare blend of Gohyakumangoku and Tsukiakari rice, delivers a unique flavour profile with a velvety texture, light acidity, and a lingering finish.
The sake will be available for public tasting at The Coconut Club and ÁTIPICO, where you can savour local delights all while discovering new dimensions of what sake can be.
When: 24, 25 and 31 August and 1 September
Where: The Coconut Club at New Bahru and ÁTIPICO
Purchase NORMAT 'AGAINST THE GRAIN' sake here
Get ready to have your mind blown this Friday at MDLR as the iconic Nicole Moudaber takes over the decks. A true powerhouse, Nicole wears many hats—producer, label head, radio host and of course, a world-class DJ. With 16 years of experience, she's a master at her craft.
Don't miss her latest banger, 'Slap Back', a collaboration with London's rising duo, House of Molly. This track is a perfect fusion of Nicole's signature dark, driving beats, and House of Molly's playful, hypnotic vocals. Moudaber is redefining techno, giving it a fresh, bold twist you won't want to miss.
When: 16 August
Where: 62 Cecil Street, Singapore 049710
Get your tickets here
Presented by 0rbit, the cutting-edge fusion of art, music, and rave culture. Imagine a cozy flea market with an open deck where you can unleash your inner DJ—whether you're a pro or just starting out. So grab your mates, hunt for hidden treasures, and vibe to some beats (or be the one serving the decks).
When: 18 August
Where: 195 Pearls Hill Terrace, #02-45 Lucky Hall
Looking for a wild night of non-stop dancing? We've got just the thing—dive into the underground beats of special guest DJ PGZ, a dynamic artist hailing from the Gunai/Kurnai and Yorta Yorta nations. As a DJ and producer, he's all about spotlighting the cutting-edge work of Black and Brown producers in the dance music scene, mixing hard-hitting techno with dark, bass-heavy rhythms that'll keep you hooked.
When: 17 August
Where: 138 Robinson Road #19-01, Singapore 068906
Get your tickets here
Start packing your day bag because Ember Beach Club at One&Only Desaru Coast will be getting the Thevar touch. Two-Michelin starred Chef Mano Thevar joins the third edition of EMBER CURATES alongside Chef-Owner Andrew Walsh of Cure, bringing his reinterpretations of South Asian cuisine to the fire-fuelled menu.
Prior editions of the collaborative series saw Chef Bjorn Shen of Artichoke and Chef Ryan Clift of Tippling Club, but this time it's gonna be heavy on the spice. Curry aioli and caviar? Cinnamon ice cream with saffron and cardamom? For one night only and just a two-hour drive away at One&Only Desaru Coast, the star-studded dinner (MYR650 nett) is now available for booking.
When: 17 August
Where: Ember Beach Club, One&Only Desaru Coast
Make reservations at guest.experience@oneandonlydesarucoast.com.
What are "good vibes" to you? For me, it's all about being wrapped in a cozy ambiance, surrounded by warm lights, with groovy tunes playing in the background, and holding a glass of wine. Sounds like a dream, right? Well great news—it's real, and it's happening at Uptown.! Known for their R&B and wine & ice cream nights, they will be celebrating their anniversary. Come on down to wish them happy birthday, or... just enjoy some free cake.
(UPTOWN.)
When: 11 August
Where: 55 Zion Road, Singapore 247780
Drop a message to their Instagram for reservations
Apologies for the loud title but knowing RIOT!, you won't be able to escape the noise... laughter, I mean. Their mission, "One people, one nation, one drink-apore!", might be my new favourite thing. This is a watch party of the National Day Parade and while Becca D’Bus, RIOT!'s hostess with the moistness will provide biting commentary, they will be accompanied by Daisy Mitchell, who was in the parade as a wee child; Gurmit Singh; the man who used to host the actual past parades and Lychee Bye, burlesque performer and Singh's real-life daughter. Get ready to sing or yell your hearts out, and DRINK! (for legal reasons, I am not encouraging drinking...)
When: 9 August
Where: The projector at Golden Mile Tower, Singapore 199589
Get your tickets here
If you've decided to be basic by watching the fireworks on National Day, you'll have to compensate by rocking the dance floor to sick beats by Tijana T. All the way from Serbia, Tijana T is known for her techno, house, and trance beats. From headlining at Panorama Bar to several Boiler Room sets all over the globe, she definitely knows how to read the crowd.
When: 9 August
Where: 66A Boat Quay Singapore, 049854
Get your tickets here
Any dark conspiracy fans? Well you're in luck. Fly Me to the Moon takes on the theory that NASA faked the moon landing (ooOOoO...). Themed to the 1960s NASA space race starring the beloved Scarlett Johansson as Kelly Jones the marketing specialist and Channing Tatum as NASA launch director Cole Davis.
As always, the gist of the movie? Sparks fly between marketing specialist Kelly Jones and the NASA launch director Cole Davis as they are tasked with contrasting directions for the Apollo 11 mission.
Sounds odd, but don't worry, you won't get bored to tears, this movie entails a love story, science thriller, and period comedy all at once.
When: Screening now
Where: All theatres near you
For those who are taking advantage of the long weekend for a quick getaway (so Singaporean, amirite?), if you're passing through Changi Airport Terminal 3, swing by a dram or two at Singleton's pop-up, "Gardens of Abundance".
Fruity and citrusy? That's the Radiant Spring Garden, whilst the Golden Autumn Orchard holds the same fruity notes, it's hinted with vanilla and butterscotch. Moving on to the Exotic Spice Grove for an (obviously...) exotic, and nutty taste. Lastly, savour the intensely flavoured Deep Forest Riches of raisins, dates, and dark chocolate.
With every bottle purchased at the pop-up, travellers have the opportunity to customised their personalised charm adorned in Singleton's signature teal and purple with hot-stamp embossing: ladybug, butterfly, dragonfly, and bee.
When: Now till 21 August
Where: Changi Airport Terminal 3 Departure Transit, Singapore
When you think of a luxurious bottle of whisky, The Glenrothes single malt whisky comes to mind. As a custodian of some of the world's oldest and finest single malts, the brand unveils their revamped core collection—The 18 and The 25.
Aromatic fruity taste with a finish of sweet, spicy, and peppery? That's the award-winning 18 Year Old single malt whisky.
Joining the collection is The 25, rich and sweet with silky nuttiness, it showcases what a few more years of patiently waiting can do.
Both presented in their new packaging that pays homage to the brands timeless artistry, symbolising progression and even 'saves the world' with its paper-based canister, created with recycled materials. Whilst serving its new look, the whisky itself remains timeless and elegant.
Oh, and did someone say discount? Be sure to not miss out on the 10 per cent discount: ESQUIRE10OFF and welcome cocktails that is included in the ticket (SGD$58)—a dram of The 18 and The 25 (20ml). That's basically free! Girl-math.
When: 2-4 August
Where: Mandala Club, 31 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089845
Get your tickets here
That's right, you heard me—Longlegs has been named The Best horror movie in 2024. Starring Maika Monroe as Lee Harker and Nicolas Cage as the titular Longlegs, it's currently rated at 85 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes—it's that scary. So unless you're up for the challenge then stay tuned for this.
Gist of the movie? FBI Agent Lee Harker discovers a personal connection to the murderer of an unsolved serial killer case she had been assigned to. Things took an unexpected turn and revealed evidence of the occult. With a mission to stop the killer before he strikes again, will Harker make it or not?
If you want to spoil the whole movie for yourself, check out our 10-Word Film Review about Longlegs, and beware: There. Are. Spoilers.
When: Screening now
Where: All theatres near you
Nominated for the Grammys and multiple DJ Mag awards—Sasha will be hitting the decks at MDLR this weekend. Renowned for his remixes for iconic artists such as Madonna and Moby, he is an influential figure in the electronic music scene and has carved out a legendary career spanning his decades.
When: 3 August
Where: 62 Cecil Street, Singapore 049710
Get your tickets here
Named one of the Best Comedy Nights in Singapore, East Coast Comedy brings to you the most popular standup comedy nights. Local comedian stars and household names such as Rishi Budhrani, Jinx Yeo, Jacky Ng (who did his best at Esquire's anniversary celebration) and many more. With a 100 per cent guarantee of laughters every show, prepare your diaphragms.
When: Every Friday and Saturday
Where: 285 Joo Chiat Road Level 2, Singapore 427535
Get your tickets here
Singapore's National Day is sweeping in and the crowds' sure to be there—so hurry on and grab your tickets in advance. Enjoy free-flow alcohol such as rosé, champagne, and spirits at the rooftop of Marriott Singapore Novena, Las Palmas—the perfect spot to celebrate Singapore's 59th birthday and to show-off your patriotic side.
Las Palmas is set to hold an American inspired—National Day Weekend Hot Dog Fiesta. Carting out a pop-up Hot Dog Bar by its poolside which guests can indulge in whilst overlooking the stunning view and fireworks later on in the evening.
When: 8-11 August
Where: Courtyard by Marriott Singapore
Make your reservations here
The Swiss watchmaker—Breitling will be celebrating its 140th anniversary with an exhibition—"Time Capsule: The Breitling Heritage Exhibition". Showcasing its revolutionary watches such as the world's first smartwatch—1942 Chronomat and the Cosmonaute, which has not only been to other countries, but to outer-space. Be sure to catch it before it returns to space (unless NASA has been lying to us... jokes!)
When: Till 4th August
Where: Raffles City Shopping Centre
With fond memories attached, we return to the place where we celebrated Esquire's Anniversary. Kicking this list off with an evening of Indie dance and melodic techno soundscapes starring two international heavyweights—Darlin Epsilon and Geminis.
Often hailed as a pioneer of Melodic House & Techno and Progressive House, Darin Epsilon will be taking the stage on level 61. Nominated for 'Best Progressive House Artist' in the annual Beatport Awards, Eplison is sure to deliver an unforgettable set.
Meanwhile, on level 62, you can catch the Geminis, an electronic music duo from Germany known for their strong techno grooves. With debut tracks 'Angel' and 'Shmetterling' reaching the Beatport Top 100 and number 11 on the Beatport Hype Chart, the Geminis have played in clubs worldwide.
To entice you even further, the first 100 guests arriving before midnight will receive a complimentary welcome drink.
When: 27 July, 10PM-4AM
Where: HighHouse, 1 Raffles Place
Get your tickets here
35A Market is back for round two, and this time it features its biggest line-up yet. Shop from independent creatives in the art, fashion, and design scenes. Treat yourself to clothes from @shrub.0128, while sipping wine from @glugglug.sg and finish it off by strutting the dance floor where Matty Judah and Sunat will be jamming out some tunes.
When: 28 July, 1PM-9PM
Where: 35A Kampong Bahru Road, Singapore 169366
Alright, I hear you. Not in the mood to doomzi doomzi (a Singaporean slang to say partying) this weekend? How about a movie instead? Check out "Deadpool & Wolverine", starring Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine.
Promise there aren't any spoilers: "Deadpool & Wolverine" takes place set six years after the events of 2018's "Deadpool 2" and follows a retired Deadpool, now living a normal life as Wade Wilson. Until the Time Variance Authority, responsible for maintaining all timelines, pulls him into a new mission.
When: 26 July onwards
Where: All theatres near you
Here's another booth and tune you won't to want miss out on. Two highly anticipated Singapore-based techno collectives—Degenerave and Ministry of Hard Techno, are making their return, along with local partners setting up booths to explore and support.
Don't worry, there's something for everyone in this exciting booth lineup: tattoo artists @oh.rainy.day and @eightball.ttt, tarot readings by @tarotxavenue, vintage fashion from @shutdown_store, and leather goods by @kultbespoke
When: 27 July, 8PM-4AM
Where: 269 South Bridge Road 04-01, Singapore 058818
The iconic nightlife venue is launching a new happy hour offering and revamped music programming starting this month—GOOD TIMES. Every Wednesdays, you can enjoy a mix of drinks, bar bites, and groovy music featuring a mix of hip-hop and R&B by resident DJ FLAVA.
Additionally, Potato Head has introduced a new Friday night series-CANNED HEAT, showcasing afrobeats, baile funk and dancehall by resident DJs LI.A and Dee. Saturdays dedicated to NIGHT MOVES, with house and disco beats spun by Kevin Sy, Jamie Hall, and more.
When: Every Wednesday, Friday, and Weekend in July
Where: 36 Keong Saik Road
Experience Vacheron Constantin "From Geometry to Artistry" exhibition, featuring the latest novelties from Watches & Wonders 2024 alongside a stunning artistic installation in collaboration with Lanzavecchia + Wai.
Discover the Maison's newest innovations, demonstrating their dedication to excellence. This exhibition reveals the creation process, from initial sketches to the finishing touches, inspired by geometrical shapes and brought to life through the theme "From Geometry to Artistry".
When: 22-28 July, 2PM-9PM
Where: 48 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore, 089859
Book your sessions here
Starting off strong with some killer tunes, coming all the way to Pasir Panjang Power Station this Saturday, Boiler Room is back for another banger. With a lineup of international, regional and local talent—A/K/A, Natasha Hassan, Aya, Tashasan and Xiaolin.
When: 20th July
Where: Boiler Room
Get your tickets here
Rather than displaying Birkins, Kellys and Haut à Courroies bags, Hermès emphasises the art of craftsmanship in both fashion and beyond. For this outing, the French House opens the merging of cinema and performance art to the public, called On the Wing of Hermès it was the the most captivating thing that brought a smile to our ever-stoic EIC's face.
Belgian director Jaco Van Dormael and choreographer Michèle Anna De May, in collaboration with the Astragales dance company, crafted a unique art performance accompanied by a 35-minute film screening that the live performance is based on.
Where they blended dance, object theatre, cinema, and music to tell the story of the mythical winged horse Pegasus and his seven foals. Each feature has its own backdrop of Hermès objects and figurines with live dances performing choreography. And all were captured in real-time by image and lighting technicians, then projected onto a giant screen.
When: 19-28 July
Where: Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre Level B2, 10 Bayfront Avenue
Book your sessions here
Familiar with the house music scene hit '(It Goes Like) Nanana'? This Friday, Berlin-based South Korean DJ and record producer Peggy Gou will spin her popular and catchy tunes at Marquee Singapore
Gou has performed at renowned events worldwide, including the iconic Coachella music festival. Besides being a musical sensation, she's also celebrated as a "fashion icon", known for her exquisite taste in clothing and her enviable handbag collection.
Don't miss the chance to hear her latest album, I Hear You live. The album includes popular tracks like "I Go" and "(It Goes Like) Nanana", both of which have garnered millions of streams. Be sure to be there.
When: 19 July
Where: Marquee Singapore
If you're in the mood for something more relaxed and laid-back, head to your nearest movie theatre and check out the new action film, Twisters. Featuring an exciting cast including Glen Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones and Kiernan Shipka, it's sure to be a great watch.
Gist of the movie? Kate Cooper, played by Jones, is haunted by a past encounter with a tornado. Her friend Javi persuades her to return to the plains to test a new tracking system. There, she meets Tyler Owens, portrayed by Powell, a daring social media star known for his storm-chasing exploits. As storm season peaks, Kate, Tyler, and their rival teams must battle for survival as multiple systems converge over central Oklahoma.
When: Released on 17 July
Where: All theatres near you
In addition to the Hermès exhibition, Dior is also in the spotlight, showcasing one of their most cherished bags. Dedicated to their iconic bag—the Lady Dior, they will be having a show titled Lady Dior House. A travelling exhibition featuring the past Dior Lady Art project, an initiative launched by the maison in 2016. Inviting artists from various backgrounds and disciplines to reinterpret the Lady Dior bags.
When: 18 July-11 August
Where: 5 Jiak Kim Street, Singapore 169425
Book your sessions here
A nine-time Grammy winner and an American music institution, Sheryl Crow has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide and is a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With songs like “Love is a Good Thing,” “Redemption Day”, and “There Goes the Neighbourhood” in her arsenal, she has few peers when it comes to chronicling, as she describes, “the things that I see and the things that disturb my peace.” Her 12th studio album, Evolution, continues the tradition; she wrestles with AI anxieties, rails against Internet trolls and yearns for human connection.
I HAVE BEEN A MUSICIAN since I was old enough to reach the keys on a piano.
THERE WAS A MOMENT when I realised that what I was meant to be doing was not only reflecting but documenting the human experience.
IT’S VERY HARD for me to understand why I’ve had the colossal success I’ve had when I’m not the greatest singer, I’m not the greatest songwriter, I’m not the greatest bass player, guitar player, or producer.
EVERYTHING IS ABOUT the voice in my head that tells me that I’m not enough.
MY CAREER HAS BEEN largely propelled by my need to not just be liked but to be great. I have really come to terms with that. Cancer put that all into perspective—and several bad relationships.
I’VE LOVED SOME AMAZING PEOPLE, and I’ve loved some other people, too.
THE LAST FEW TIMES I’ve been back to LA, I felt melancholy. It’s the feeling of being young and having everything be exciting and full of possibility.
BUT I DON’T REALLY MISS IT. I’m most happy when I’m in this house with my boys in this town.
I’ve loved some amazing people, and I’ve loved some other people, too.
I’VE ALWAYS STRUGGLED with the weight of everything. I come by that genetically.
WHEN I FIRST STARTED TAKING OFF, I could not figure out how to hold all the energy coming at me. So I went and studied with this woman named Sharon Salzberg; she teaches mindfulness meditation.
I DO MINDFULNESS at least 30 minutes in the morning. Wherever I am. Two cups of coffee. Focus on breath.
IT’S A PRACTICE of letting everything go. It’s about finding compassion for yourself and your imperfections.
I GREW UP looking at magazines with Linda Ronstadt and Stevie Nicks, and they were mythical. I didn’t know that fame wasn’t going to feel like those black-and-white photos.
NOBODY, where money is concerned, is trustable.
THERE IS DIVINITY and there’s ego in everything. When you take your analytical “This is who I am and this is what I do”out of it and sit down with that weird, obtuse experience called life, sometimes something you couldn’t imagine surfaces.
I HAVE A FEW SONGS that I think, I don’t even know where that came from.
I TALK ABOUT mental issues because when I was really struggling, I didn’t have an example of somebody who said publicly, “I’m struggling, and this is what I did.” We need to make that normal.
Nobody, where money is concerned, is trustable.
THERE’S NOT A HANDBOOK for how to navigate, as a woman, a business that is predominantly run by men. Or for when you have a strong woman, how that challenges men and their feelings of importance.
I HAVE BEEN ADVISED on numerous occasions to please just tone it down.
I WISH I would shut my mouth but I can’t do that.
WITH CANCER, I had to learn how to say no and put myself first. A year of crying and being mad and not writing and resenting and having fear—and then ultimate joy and adopting a child. There was so much living that went into one year of my life, it seemed like I’d been slapped.
I WOULD NOT WISH cancer on anyone, but for me it was a tremendous—actually, a monumental—gift.
HAVING A DIAGNOSIS like that demands that you rebuild and decide what your life is going to look like and who is going to be in it—and who you are going to be in it.
YOU AND YOU ALONE are responsible for your art.
I LOOK AT WHAT TAYLOR SWIFT has done and think: she’s a powerhouse. The fact that she came up with solutions for how to not allow her music to be a moneymaker for other people when she should be owning it.
YOU WANT TO BE AIRY-FAIRY and making great music and having people love you. But what a distraction.
BY THE TIME my kids came into my life, I didn’t have things that I felt compelled to accomplish. That makes decision-making easy.
I HAVE THIS RELATIONSHIP with these two boys that I’m raising, and I have not manifested somebody coming in and changing that dynamic. That’s not to say I’m going to grow old by myself. I would like not to.
I TELL MY BOYS: “You have a college fund and a therapy fund. I hope you use the college fund, but please use the therapy fund.”
OUR KNEE-JERK NOW is to immediately criticise, vilify. Just observe and try to breathe love through your heart.
YOU’RE HERE for a nanosecond. Why be an asshole?
Originally published on Esquire US
To honour Loewe's origins as a collective craft workshop established in 1846, the Loewe Foundation held its inaugural Craft Prize competition in 2016 to showcase and celebrate modern craft excellence and has since become an annual tradition.
The House seeks to recognise the significance of craftsmanship in contemporary culture by appreciating talent, vision, and innovation. "Craft is always going to be modern. It is about creating objects that have a formula of their own and speak their own language, creating a dialogue that didn't exist before. It is about newness as much as it is about tradition," says Loewe creative director Jonathan Anderson.
Just like the previous years, Loewe Foundation has opened up submissions for the next instalment of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize—submissions will be accepted until 30 October 2024. Working in a craft-based profession and above 18? Congrats! You're eligible to apply, and the eventual winner will be awarded with EUR50,000, while two special mentions will each receive EUR5,000.
The award ceremony will then be held next spring at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum in Madrid and a distinguished panel of artists, essayists, and curators will judge the submissions, selecting a shortlist of 30 entries. Their decisions will be based on criteria such as originality, clear artistic vision, exceptional craftsmanship, material excellence, innovative value, and distinct authorial mark.
For the most recent edition of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize saw Andrés Anza's "I only know what I have seen" claim the top spot. The sculpture was crafted from glazed refractory clay adorned with countless small, pointed protrusions that drew inspiration from organic forms. Its quasi-human presence is a blend of figurative and abstract elements, appearing to twist and fold inward upon itself.
In addition to the prize winner, the jury also recognised three special mentions: "Still Life" by Miki Asai, was praised for its intricate and monumental essence by using lacquer and eggshell fragments;
"#16" by Heechan Kim who crafted a sculptural vase using traditional boat-making techniques;
and lastly, "Coffee Table 'Comme un lego'" by Emmanuel Boos that's made from porcelain bricks that can be individually removed from the structure.
Apply for the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize here.
What defines the essence of being Singaporean? Is it the laksa and chicken rice we eat? Our kiasu nature? Maybe it's the way we speak. Whatever it is, I’d argue nothing encapsulates our cultural identity quite like secondary school. For every Singaporean, secondary school was a crucial rite of passage. It’s a time when we are thrust into a melting pot of local culture and self-discovery. These are our most formative and tender years, which harden to form some semblance of who we eventually grow into. In a setting that perfectly embodies the wistful nostalgia and vibrance of Singaporean culture (if you’ve ever revisited your alma mater, you’ll know what I’m talking about), The Lo & Behold group decided to launch New Bahru, a project in this exact place that brings together local businesses to form an artist’s collective.
Brought to you by the folks behind Odette and Tanjong Beach Club, New Bahru repurposes the skeleton of Nan Chiau High School to create a space spanning food and beverage, retail, wellness, entertainment, education, arts and culture. The project's goal is to capture the quintessential Singaporean spirit and unleash our city's untapped creative potential. Despite the easier path of demolishing and starting anew, The Lo & Behold Group chose the more challenging one. By preserving the original framework, they've retained that intangible magic of adolescence. This essence permeates every repurposed classroom-turned-store, echoes through the hallways, and lingers in the parade square.
Home to the infamous SGD18 Nasi Lemak, The Coconut Club resembles how we imagine a Singaporean diner to be. They serve elevated local fare like the Quail Goreng Berempah, made with livestock from Singapore’s oldest family-owned game bird farm. Another standout dish to look out for is the River Valley exclusive Wagyu Beef Roti John.
For everything bedroom, check out SOJAO, a local brand known for 100% ethically made organic cotton products. You’ll find anything from bedsheets, sleepwear and fragrances—one of which White Noise, a collaboration with stillgoods, caught my nose. It’ll have you sniffing the sample paper like an inhaler (in the best way possible) due to its calming effect. I hear they’re collaborating with 50 other local brands, embracing the kampung spirit we’ve grown so out of touch with.
Hearing Nujabes playing in the background of Soilboy told me everything I needed to know about the plant studio. The atmosphere evokes a Zen Japanese garden, with blends of textures—cork on metal, smooth and textured, soft but rugged. Soilboy curates a careful selection of plants that involve intensive research and propagation. The result is a catalogue of flora you probably expect to see in somewhere like Gardens by The Bay instead. Their collection of handmade ceramics is also available for sale in their first experience store, so rest assured your plants won’t go home unclothed.
To effectively sum up what MAKE is, one can only describe it as a kitchen for clothes. Launching as an experience-based concept store, they allow customers to customise a selection of materials and fabric (the seasoning stage as I like to call it) and quite literally, steam them in an “oven” once they’ve undergone the arduous process of this or that. What comes fresh out of the oven is a creation—either a garment or a bag—complete with a beautiful pattern of pleats, a signature design of the studio.
Chef Rishi Naleendra's homage to his Sri Lankan heritage, the restaurant used to be at Wanderlust Hotel but traded it for a bigger space and a thirstier clientele. Now with a bar and a new vigour to the menu, the joint has a new lease of life. Sure, Chef Naleendra may have to travel a little further from his other two establishments—Fool and the two Michelin-starred Cloud Street, both within the Tanjong Pagar district—but you can't really beat the vibe of New Bahru.
Once an online portal, MORNING has now succumbed to having a physical retail space. It's about time though. It's hard to experience the ease of making your own coffee with MORNING's signature Morning Machine. Drop in and the retail staff will walk you through the handling of the machine, as well as, recommend the different coffee profiles that might tickle your fancy. Expect future endeavours like sampling sessions, workshops and events.
What started as an Etsy side hustle has now blossomed into a third physical space at New Bahru. As the first to introduce permanent jewellery (where a custom-fitted piece is welded close without any clasp) in Singapore, Curious Creatures at New Bahru offers fine and demi-fine jewellery collections as well as the only outlet that has a bespoke service.
Located at the Big Block, Alma House's nomenclature is taken from "alma mater" as the building was once Nan Chiau High School. It's a new-to-market serviced apartment concept that's designed by local design studio FARM. With furnishings supplied by Commune, there are six room tiers to stay at; with the Deluxe Room (18sqm) that's fitting for a single traveller or the largest Alma Family Suite (55sqm) that... well, the whole family can enjoy.
If MAKE by Ginlee is a kitchen for clothes, it only makes sense to liken Crafune to a kitchen for leather handbags and accessories. Here, they offer a series of hands-on workshops focused on leather craftsmanship, but there’s also an emphasis on upcycling. That old leather bag you just can’t bear to part with? Under Crafune's guidance, your own hands can transform it into a stylish wallet, cardholder, or any number of creative accessories.
To understand what ÁTIPICO is, look no further than the name itself. Defined as “different from all others of the same type,” ÁTIPICO has had its background as a bakery and caterer for high-end fashion brands. At New Bahru, Room #15 will be its first foray into the restaurant industry, and it seems poised to make a splash in fine dining with a fresh perspective. Based on the tantalising samples I’ve tried, I have no doubt ÁTIPICO will transition just fine into the industry—albeit a little disruptive with how unique it promises to be.
Opening its doors as Singapore’s only Makkoli bar and restaurant, Odem takes pride in its curation of meticulously handcrafted makkoli that’s been brewed with local ingredients and free of preservatives—a far cry from your typical mass-produced rice wine. As someone who struggles to finish a pint of beer, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying a flight of five makkoli glasses without much resistance. Though we must admit, we’ve always had a soft spot for makkoli. Pairing each sip with a warm and comforting bite of their Soy Glazed Brioche and Gamtae Seaweed Butter hit every spot for us.
Traditional Korean dishes are refined using modern techniques, resulting in a menu featuring comfort food such as the Gulim Mandu and Barbequed Kalbi. The ambience is bathed in soft light, creating an intimate atmosphere that’s sure to get those long conversations going. If you do decide to visit, don’t leave out the Brioche, seriously.
More than the Birkins, Kellys, and Haut à Courroies bags, Hermès prides itself on the art of craftsmanship (fashion and beyond) and showcasing them to the public through unique experiences. We've had variations of them over the years in Singapore—from a literal display of the breadth of its artisanship, to an innovative wellness experience using Hermès leather goods and accessories. This year, Hermès combines the crafts of cinema and performance art with On the Wings of Hermès.
"This work metaphorically illustrates the lightness that is omnipresent at Hermès: in the delicate hands of our craftspeople sewing with two needles at once, in the elegance of materials and in the subtle notes of a perfume. It is an experience which sparks the imagination, designed by the artisans of dreams," says Pierre-Alexis Dumas, artistic director of Hermès.
On the Wings of Hermès is the collective effort of Belgian director Jaco Van Dormael and choreographer Michèle Anne De Mey, with the Astragales dance company. It had already made its run in Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Singapore is the latest stop in its world tour.
Visitors will experience the entire performance within a film studio format where seven vignettes that blend dance, object theatre, music and cinema, come together to tell the story of the mythical winged horse Pegasus and his seven foals. Each of the seven parts are set against its own backdrop consisting of Hermès objects, and figurines gliding to choreography. Live dancers and choreographers work together with image and lighting technicians—they're captured in real time by Van Dormael and projected up onto a giant screen.
A screening of a 35-minute film of the same name (inspired by the performance) completes the entire experience of cinematic poetry in motion.
On the Wings of Hermès is scheduled to open on 19 July and will run until 28 July 2024. Bookings are now open and can be made online.
What do you do when you're an artist fascinated with the past, present and future? You poetically merge all three to fuel your art. New York-based artist Daniel Arsham is celebrated for crafting modern-looking artifacts or figures that appear eroded, mimicking the effect of casts being burried for centuries. Future relics, if you will. Given his penchant for time, it makes sense that his next project will involve a watch brand like Hublot. The matrimony between his artistic perspective and Hublot's technical expertise yields something that feels modern and otherworldly, the Arsham Droplet.
The Arsham Droplet reimagines the classic pocket watch by building on antique forms using the latest production methods and materials. These updates challenge watchmaking norms, fashioning a timepiece that looks straight out of Ex Machina. Drawing inspiration from nature's water elements, the Arsham Droplet employs titanium, rubber, and sapphire crystal to create a tactile experience that feels like whatever the antithesis of grasping water is.
True to the concept of fluidity, the Arsham Droplet can be shown off in more ways than one. As a necklace to a pocket watch, or displayed as a statement piece on its titanium and mineral glass table stand, Hublot’s patented double "one-click" system ensures seamless attachment.
A timepiece without a heart is merely a shell and the Arsham Droplet comes alive with Hublot's Meca-10 manufacture movement. It flaunts an impressive 10-day power reserve shielded by two domed teardrop-shaped sapphire crystals measuring 73.2mm in length and 52.6 mm in width. Fortified with a titanium case and a custom Arsham green rubber bumper, it's double encased with 17 O-ring seals to ensure nothing contaminates the quiet and intimate environment of the calibre. Featuring Hublot's signature H-shaped screws, the pocket watch bears a stamp of the artist's monogram on its crystal surface. Adding to the Arsham Droplet's theme, it has a water resistance of 30m, impressive for a pocket watch this intricate.
Given the complicated construction of the Arsham Droplet, it's no surprise it's limited to just 99 pieces world-wide.
Augustinus Bader is known for its potent, science-backed skincare, and now it is extending the cellular- renewing magic of its proprietary TFC8 tech to hair. An upgrade from its predecessor, The Rich shampoo and conditioner work in tandem to revive hair that’s extra-dry, heat-damaged, coloured and/or breakage-prone. Essentially, you’d have a mane like this handsome boy pictured.
Don’t be fooled by the appearance of this backpack. This work of art is part of Berluti’s Toujours Soft series. Crafted from Venezia leather, it cuts a rather structured profile but feels incredibly soft (and not to mention, light). The softness also gives the backpack potential to be even more pliable with age. The Scritto-decorated exterior also lends a classic gentlemanly air that’s contrasted with the contemporary top-handle-backpack hybrid.
Because ideas of what makes a man have changed over the decades, it makes perfect sense for Guerlain to update some of its signature men’s fragrances. Perfumer Delphine Jelk sought inspiration from the world of spirits, transforming Vetiver, Habit Rouge, and L’Homme Idéal into eau de parfums reminiscent of infused gin, bourbon and amaretto respectively. The intensities are heightened thanks to a selection of concentrated ingredients; each of the fragrances is seductive in its own way.
How does one create leather shoes that feel buttery-soft on your feet? Zegna achieves it with the use of leather typically reserved for making gloves. Not only is the leather durable and extremely light and airy, the glove leather-tanning process gives it a form- retaining capability that heightens the luxurious feel of the Zegna Triple Stitch SECONDSKIN shoes. Your feet will thank you.
Jabra boasts that its Elite 8 Active earbuds are the world’s toughest and it’s easy to understand why. They are US Military-tested to be dustproof; completely waterproof (with the added boon of being saltwater-proof), and fitted with the Jabra ShakeGrip tech to keep your ear buds in place no matter what activity you engage in.
Say hello to the second release in The Macallan Home Collection. This particular expression is a hearty mix of sultana, rich velvety butterscotch, toasted oak, chocolate and nutmeg for that characteristically sweet and fruity palate of the Spey. But beyond the whisky, each bottle comes with a set of three limited-edition giclée prints by artist Michelle Lucking to visually transport you to the natural beauty of The Macallan's home.
It’s all in the foam with this one. The New Balance 1080V13 is fitted with a thick rubber outsole to help increase its durability in high-wear areas. There’s also its midsole that’s made for incredible comfort thanks to its bio-based Fresh Foam X material. There’s no doubt you’d be able to breeze through your daily training runs in these without needing to worry about post-run aches.
Twenty-five years ago, Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones were the first to circle the globe nonstop in a hot air balloon. Their timepiece of choice? Breitling’s Orbiter 3, clocking in 45,633km in 19 days, 21 hours and 47 minutes. To commemorate that incredible feat, the Aerospace B70 Orbiter is dressed with an orange dial reminiscent of the balloon’s capsule and marked with the mission logo. A piece of the original balloon is also embedded within the watch itself, visible through the open caseback—a piece of history in your hand, literally, to remind you of the indomitable human spirit.
We cannot tell you just how soft Loro Piana cashmere is—it is something you will just have to experience for yourself. This fringed cashmere scarf will keep you warm, whether in an air-conditioned setting or during a winter vacay. It’s that luxe feel that’s akin to being snuggled up by a fluffy kitty. Oh, and that circular gold logo adornment adds a rather spiffy touch too.
We are all familiar with RIMOWA’s signature grooved detailing on its suitcases and accessories by now. But dig deeper into the brand’s archives and you would find the Hammerschlag (the German word for “hammer hit”) that predates the grooves. RIMOWA brought back the textured, polished aluminium series for a limited edition collection. This time, updating it with modern travel functionalities, so that it’s perfect for when you want to escape the rigours of life for a bit.
Photography: Jayden Tan
Styling: Asri Jasman
Digital Imaging and Retouching: Nguyen Tien Phuc
Photography Assistants: Aisyah Hisham and Brian Neo
Special thanks to Cat Paradise
Led by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Singapore’s participation at the World Expo 2025 was an opportunity to share our nation’s story. Located at Yumeshima Island, situated near Osaka, Singapore's pavilion design is called "The Dream Sphere". It is a seven-storey bright red sphere that pays homage to Yumeshima Island’s name, meaning "Dream Island". With the tagline, "Where Dreams Take Shape", this sphere is designed and produced by Kingsmen Exhibits.
If the design looks familiar, chalk it up to coincidence. Leading Singapore-based multidisciplinary design firm, DP Architects spearheaded its architectural design. Inspired by Singapore’s endearing moniker, ‘the Little Red Dot’, DP interpreted the look of the Dream... quite literally. Conceived in line with the expo's theme of "Designing [a] Future Society for our Lives", the Pavilion aims for positive change to build a more sustainable and liveable city for Singaporeans. It's constructed around the tenets of 4Rs—renew, reuse, reduce and recycle. And staying true to the message of sustainability, the facade is made of more than 20,000 recycled discs.
Other design features of the Pavilion include its scaly exterior. It references the Seigaiha, a traditional Japanese wave motif, and Ema, a Japanese wooden wishing charm. The sphere’s colour coincides with Singapore's and Japan’s national colour. Its shape resembles the distinct silhouette of the Japanese ume.
Carrie Kwik, Executive Director, World Expo and Special Project, STB, said, “Singapore’s participation at Expo 2025 in Osaka serves as an important platform for Singapore enterprises and talents to be profiled on a global stage and a chance for companies to enhance their brand visibility and engage potential business partners. We are proud to bring Singapore to Osaka and aim to have Singapore business missions visiting Japan to network and promote collaboration between Singapore companies and Japanese guests at our Singapore Pavilion.”
Expo 2025 Osaka expects 28 million visitors over 184 days from 13 April 2024 to 13 October 2025.
From 15 to 21 April 2024, Moncler transforms the Milano Centrale railway station into a spectacular creative hub. The station will turn into one of the world’s largest galleries with an immersive exhibition titled An Invitation To Dream.
“Dreams are what have been moving myself and Moncler forward since day one, because we never stop dreaming about what is possible, and how we can inspire and be inspired by others around the world. Always aiming to not only do new, but to do better,” says Moncler chairman and CEO Remo Ruffini.
Curated by Jefferson Hack, the theme of the exhibition heeds closely to the brand’s values. An Invitation To Dream is filmed and photographed by Jack Davison, and features a lineup of visionaries that are the cultural leaders of today. They include Daniel Arsham, Dr. Deepak Chopra, Isamaya Ffrench, Laila Gohar, Jeremy O. Harris, Francesca Hayward, Julianknxx, Ruth Rogers, Ruffini, Rina Sawayama, Sumayya Vally, and Zaya.
“The curated community represent some of the finest creative visionaries across culture who dare to dream for us. They are today’s reality-shapers and they were invited to participate as their work carries with it new hopes and possibilities. It’s the deeply transformative aspects in their work and practice that makes them essential artists of our time and essential for us to bring into this project,” Hack explains.
Without a doubt, the station is one of the city’s busiest travel hubs. But not only that, it also represents the pivotal moment for those daring enough to pursue their dreams. Billboards and screen-based advertising sites featuring imageries and quotations from the artists stand amidst the station's bustling environment. These large-scale text pieces and slow-motion portraits serve as powerful yet silent invocations. An Invitation To Dream celebrates those who embody passion and belief.
Arsham tells us more as he reflects on the concept of dreams and manifestation, and how it might help him in his creative processes. From childhood inspirations to the subconscious realms where ideas germinate, Arsham's narrative offers a glimpse into the inner workings of a visionary artist.
ESQUIRE SINGAPORE: Do you consider yourself a dreamer? Are you a dreamer?
DANIEL ARSHAM: Yeah, I believe in the power of manifestation. When I was younger, I didn't fully grasp this concept or its reality, but looking back, I see how I've manifested many opportunities in my life. For instance, when I applied to Cooper Union, I wasn't accepted initially, but I kept pushing for it until it happened. Similarly, working with Merce Cunningham was a dream I actively pursued.
ESQ: You have a lot of notebooks and that you sketch a lot. It's interesting how dreams often start in the mind before taking tangible form. How do you document your process of manifesting ideas? Do your dreams directly influence your work?
DA: There's that 5- to 10-minute period right before you fall asleep where you're kind of in between sleeping, lucid dreaming, where you're partially in control of the vision that you're having in your dream and part of it's taken over by your subconscious. And you can’t differentiate what’s real and what’s imaginary. I often find inspiration in that liminal state right before sleep. There are moments, especially during air travel, where I enter a state between wakefulness and sleep, and ideas emerge. I rely heavily on note-taking and sketching to capture these fleeting thoughts.
ESQ: It's interesting how much our subconsciousness can help recontextualise the conscious mind in a way it can be a freer space. You know, you have an idea, you sketch, you look at ideas, but then when you're in that kind of dream world, you're able to kind of rethink things, or things are presented to you without bias.
DA: Yeah. Ironically, I sometimes do this thing to document an idea where I'll text it to myself. I woke up the other morning from a dream and saw this text I wrote to myself and it said, "Have you ever woken up out of a beautiful dream 30 minutes before your alarm, and you really just want to get back into that dream? Make your life feel like that."
ESQ: Creative flow and dreaming share similarities in their meditative nature. Do you experience a flow state while creating?
DA: Yeah. My studio practice feels like capturing an existing idea rather than inventing one. The idea behind it has already passed. So it's about capturing an idea rather than implementing it. I don't know how exactly to say this, but when I'm painting, It's almost as if the idea is kind of already there and I'm just finding it. Does that make sense?
ESQ: So are you able to kind of paint and not think about what you’re doing? How would you describe that, that feeling of being in a flow state?
DA: I've been making paintings now for 30 years, and I've gotten into a process that almost feels, I wouldn’t say mechanical, but it's very regimented. I know exactly where all of my paint is, the types of brushes that I like to use, and I've refined all of that, even down to the point where I only use a specific kind of paint now.
ESQ: It's interesting because I think that that kind of discipline and rigour is akin to a meditation practice where you're doing something very mundane, but you're doing it very precisely, over and over again, like raking the Japanese garden in your big installation.
DA: Yeah.
ESQ: It does something to the mind. It does something to the creative mind, that practice...
DA: That's why we call it studio practice, because you're constantly trying things out. You're still learning and there's routines that get built up within that that I think are productive, actually, even if they feel like you're doing the same thing over and over again. But, you become better at those things through that kind of practice.
ESQ: Has there ever been a kind of an epiphany moment in that studio practice where you've just done a left turn or you’re shaking things up and thought, okay, I'm going to re orientate what I'm doing here?
DA: I often find it really difficult to trace the origin of particular ideas in my work because they flow from one another. They're kind of iterative. And, I recently started this new series of paintings that are these kinds of split face paintings. We were talking about them earlier and somebody was asking, where did the idea originate from and I can't even remember.
ESQ: So very much like a dream it's fragmentary, right? You know, it could come from the past and could come from, a moment in history or another life and it could also be a premonition of the future, something that you're projecting or wanting to manifest?
DA: Right.
ESQ: I think by saying I don't know where my ideas come from, I start to question whether they are from me or are they from another kind of source in a way that I'm channelling. Have you thought much about that? Where does inspiration come from in general for you?
DA: I think every artist is a product of the era they live in. It is the artist’s job to interpret and reveal new potential things within that reality that often go unseen or overlooked. Oftentimes when I create a work that has a big impact, it feels as though it already existed in the world, waiting to be expressed. This sense of inherent presence gives the work a significant impact and a sense of purpose fulfilled.
ESQ: There's definitely recurring symbols and motifs in your work. Are there recurring symbols and motifs in your dream world?
DA: Oh, I have tons of recurring dreams. One of them that's very strange that I can remember going all the way back to high school is, being in a kind of empty landscape with a single tree and there are these cylinders floating in the air and as I go to grab them, they shrink down into a pencil and then just disappear. Then I often have dreams where I'm in my childhood home where I kind of relive my childhood memories.
ESQ: And how does that make you feel?
DA: It's a beautiful thing to go back to your childhood. And, I could probably draw a very accurate floor plan of it even today. I haven't been in that house in over 30 years, but I know it very well. Space has a way of influencing our psychology that I think imprints a lot in childhood.
ESQ: In what way?
DA: I think your childhood bedroom or the space that you spend a lot of time in as a child imprints on you differently than the way an apartment in your 30s might. There's just a different character about it.
ESQ: I'm just imagining younger you in your childhood home, dreaming of what you might be in the future. What were some of the things that you were looking out for that gave you a sense of inspiration or confidence about taking the path of being an artist?
DA: I grew up in a really suburban neighbourhood where all the houses are literally identical with the same floor plan. They might do a mirror image where the house is in reverse of itself. I started getting into photography around age 10 or 11 when my grandfather gifted me a camera. One of my early artistic endeavours was a series of photos capturing the doors of these houses. Even though the houses were the same, the doors ended up being different. The paint of the door. Some people put a flower pot outside their door, or a cross, or something that gave that sameness a unique character. This experience sparked my recognition of an artist's ability to capture the distinctive aspects of everyday life that others may overlook.
ESQ: It's amazing because I can imagine you sort of looking through the frame and then it altering your sense of reality and perspective on the world. I'm really interested in this idea of how you think about reality and perspective. Obviously, our dream world allows us to play with one of those concepts because it is nonlinear, experimental. It's an unreal world. In some cultures, they would say the real world is an illusion and the dream world is the world. But obviously when you're making art and your artworks are also about world building and creating alternate worlds for yourself to inhabit, I wonder if this idea of reality shaping is something that interests you in your work.
DA: Yeah, I think for most people, they accept reality at face value and they accept the limitations of that. Right?
ESQ: The literal physics.
DA: It's not just about the physics; it's about where we're born, the options presented to us, and what we believe we're capable of achieving. For me, the essence of creating art goes beyond a career; it's about realising the potential to bring my visions to life authentically. It can be unsettling to recognise that much of what we perceive as reality are human constructs. Somebody made them, you know. I have my two young sons, Casper and Phoenix, and I often emphasise to them that behind every design decision lies the possibility for change. There's a lot of potential in realising that reality is malleable.
ESQ: So your motivation is about looking at the world and seeing how you can improve on it or change it. Or is it more about seeking some kind of answers to unrealised questions?
DA: Yeah, I think making art is more about trying to find the answer to something, but actually it's really revealing more questions in some ways.
ESQ: That's super interesting. I like that we talked a lot about childhood and your children as well. I think also part of it seems to me that you are always open to change and new possibilities. You said earlier, always learning is also a little bit about staying in a childlike state?
DA: Yeah. Children have this unique ability to perceive things differently.
ESQ: How do you maintain that sense of freshness and openness to new experiences? What are some of your techniques?
DA: I try to relive my own childhood through my sons. This is a bad example, but they've been wanting to get these go karts. Obviously, cars are a big part of my life, so I got them these really fast gas go karts that are probably not even legal today. I have a paved area behind my garage and you can fully drift these things. They kept telling me ‘you're going too fast’ and I was like ‘I got it under control!’ And eventually, like a child, I pushed it over the limit and fully flipped the thing, tore up my arm and knee, and it was funny. Casper, who's the older one, said ‘you know, I told you not to do that.’
ESQ: How have you showcased "pushing the limits" in your work?
DA: As an artist, we often engage in series, and the public often perceives artwork through repetition. It's like pages of a book that you're putting together, but knowing when the book is finished and how it progresses to the next chapter or book is a constant consideration. I often have too many ideas that I'm always waiting to realise. I don't know if that really answers the question. But yeah, I always have too many things on my list to make, too many ideas.
ESQ: Was there an experience, an artwork that's made such an incredible impression on you, the kind of impression you hope your work would have on the public when they encounter it?
DA: Right around the time that I was shooting those photographs, when I was 10, 11, 12, there was a hurricane in Florida that completely destroyed the childhood home that I grew up in. The house was reconstructed back in exactly the way that it had been before, except obviously, the wallpaper was different. The tiles on the floor were different. The furniture was different. But it was the exact same space. It also gave me the experience of seeing how architecture was put together. The structure, the electrical lines, the plumbing, the drywall, the paint. Understanding that, yeah, somebody thought about that, somebody made that, it was a considered idea. I think that really had a major impact on the way that I think about everything. Something being destroyed, something being reconstructed. The use of different materials for different possibilities and its manifested in my work in so many different ways.
ESQ: That's a great story. Last question, what’s an unrealised dream or ambition for you?
DA: Ummm.. an unrealised dream? Film is certainly something that I've played with in the past and I think never really realised in its full potential. Made some short films. But I think at this phase in my life, I keep coming back to the most interesting things that constantly draws me back. I have made a big return to painting after almost a decade. It's become not only a part of my art practice, but also a significant aspect of my daily life in the studio.
We know Gillman Barracks as a colonial barracks and then as an arts cluster. But there are more to the area than just contemporary art galleries. For one, there is The Southern Depot, where it's all about crafts, cycling, wellness and lifestyle.
The Southern Depot seems like a prime pit-stop and landmark in-line with Gillman Barracks' vision as a vibrant creative arts enclave. Painting itself as an event space, The Southern Depot hosted a slew of activities and workshop when it opened in early March. It was a weekend event that featured vendors like Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee, KultBespoke, HeartyPlayFam, Re-store and more.
Embracing the ethos of "Cycles, Craft, and Community", the creative hub fosters dynamic partnerships with local lifestyle brands and carefully curates eco-conscious workshops. Aside from weekend craft markets, visitors can also visit the DIDI Lifestyle area, where you can peruse a wide array of two-wheelers in their showroom (hell, try for a test ride!) or patronise their on-site partners like Weber Grill Academy (getcher grilled meats on!), Kaffa Bella (getcher caffeine on!) and Little Island Brewing Co (getcher beer on! Responsibly!).
Tune in for more curated programmes and installations from weekend markets, seasonal pop-up events and co-working spaces. Goh Kian Sin, Executive Chairman of DIDI Group and owner of The Southern Depot says, “We have many programmes and partnerships in the pipeline, and are looking forward to introducing a unique experience for visitors to discover the limitless potential of The Southern Depot.”
So, if you feel fatigued by the art (or the GD sun), step into The Southern Depot for a spell. Have a drink or some food and even partake in one of their many cultural events.
