Premiere Issue 2017

DEKĀD LIFESTYLE
T ABLE OF CONTENTS

FAS H I O N & BEAUTY 5
10 Decadent Spa Treatments Around the World 14
24
The Rising Fashion Designers of 2017
32
Domenico Vacca & Eleonora Pieroni: The New Couple of Fashion 34
EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: The New Couple of Fashion on Dekadlifestyle.com/Magazine 36
TECHNOLOGY 40
The Top 3 Tech Trends According to CES 45
THE ARTS 52
Mackenzie Spindler: A True Trailblazer 54

Who is You?: A Closer look at Moonlight

Shawn Kolodny: Nightlife Guru Turned Artistic Wonder

One Year After his Death Friends Remember David Bowie

New Musicals Light Up Broadway

Eddy Bogeart: The Life of a Creator

TRAVEL & REAL ESTA TE 60
The North Pole, The Ultimate Destination 64
Inside True Luxury Vacation Home Experience 68
CESSNA – Dominating the Sky

WELLNESS

Excerpt from Mogul Talk with Entrepreneur Kevin McGovern Interview 70

Video: SPECIAL FEATURE - Mogul Talk with Entrepreneur Kevin McGovern on Dekadlifestyle.com/Magazine

Video: SPECIAL FEATURE – Interview with NFL Surgeon Dr. Dapo on Dekadlifestyle.com/Magazine

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F ASHION AND BEAUTY

10 DECADENT SPATREATMENTS AROUND THE
WORLD THAT’LL MAKEYOU FORGET IT’S WINTER

C ONTRIBUTIBNG WRITER : N A I M A K A R P

1

THIS TREATMENT ISN ’T EXPLICITLYMENTIONED ON THEIR
WEBSITE , BUT IT ’S A SECRET THA T SERENA WILLIAMS
R E V E A L E D T O THE W O R LD NO T T OO L ONG A GO , A ND IT ’S
T H E D E F I N I T I O N OF LU X U R Y .

This stunning spa in Jamaica provides not only drop-dead gorgeous scenery, but every one of their treatments
start and end with a welcome and departure ritual involving aromatherapy steam and other goodies. All
treatments are undeniably luxurious, but the most impressive one is their overwater sea bungalows where you
can receive a hot seashell massage, a cold marine stone facial, or a body contour wrap as you are lulled to sleep
by the Caribbean waves. Plus the ingredients used in the treatments are made on-site, locally!

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The Clearing Factor, This treatment lasts 3-4 hours and is all about restoring internal balance through European and Eastern methods.
Mandarin Oriental First, your body is fully exfoliated with luscious Indian kama oil and sea salt, after which a lymph-system massage
Spa, NYC that detoxes and opens you up before proceeding with a Swedish massage! Double massage - that’s luxury. Cupping
is also completed, after which a body wrap is applied with black clay that’s filled with antioxidants. Then they top
you off with sumptuous lotion, but you’ll probably be asleep by then.

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Couples Ritual, Miraj Located inside the Shangri-La, this spa is upscale and elegant, and it’s perfect for melding social gatherings
Hammam spa, Toronto with a spa setting for a relaxing and communal experience. A hammam is a group steam room where you
detox and receive a full body exfoliation. If you embark on one of their voyages, you can do this with a group
of your closest friends for a memorable and intimate experience. Most of them last around 4 hours and
include the hammam and a personalized massage. The most luxurious treatment is the couples ritual involving
a hammam & gommage, Caudalie facial, and an hour long massage.

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Royal Mansour Spa, Spas in Morocco are known for being decadent in nature, and this one definitely takes the cake in terms of
Marrakech, Morroco most beautiful. If you’re looking to do something totally decadent for your strands, try one of their treatments
combining potent Liposilt Black lake mud, Argan oil, and other essential oils originating from the Atlas
Mountains. Then the hair is conditioned in a mask by the Parisian Leonor Greyl. It’s like a facial for your hair,
and the strands are sure to look and feel like brand new.

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The Awakening Moon, Hiding in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is the luminous Luna Y Mar spa. Using the ancient techniques of Mexican folk
Luna Y Mar Spa, healing, an unique combination of seaweed, salt and eucalyptus scrubs you down before your body is enveloped in a
Resort E Pedregal seaweed wrap. After, the therapist proceeds with herb-infused chili oil massage which is simultaneously relaxing and
stimulating. A two hour nirvana that you’ll simply melt into.

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Samattva Jaipur is a magical haven all on its own, and this spa is just as gorgeous. The treatment rooms are what’s
Balancing impressive here - a series of individual tent-yurts come complete with massage tables, a luxurious bathroom, a
Therapy, The personal jacuzzi, and incomparably comfortable lounging areas. With rose petals scattered all over and a
Rambaugh three hour treatment with all the amenities in the room plus some guided meditation and yoga? How could
Palace, Jaipur, you not experience something transcendent?
India

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Full-Day Ritual, Les Wine aficionado, get excited! Located in Bordeaux’s magnificent vineyards, wine is the theme for treatments,
Sources de Caudalie and with its impressive benefits that our bodies can reap from it, we’re all about soaking in some artisanal
Spa, Bordeaux, grapes. The treatment lasts all day, per the name, and involve a wine bath, wine wrap (customized, of course), a
France facial, a crushed-cabernet scrub followed by a brown-sugar scrub, and a full body massage with Caudalie
products.

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Ocean Dreaming, The setting in this spa in the Great Barrier Reef is something out of a fantasy. The most luxe treatment to treat
One&Only Spa at yourself to would be the 90 minute “Ocean Dreaming” treatment, where you receive a relaxing massage while
One&Only Hayman surrounded by tropical fish, floating in the sea. Nope, not a cabana on an extending pier, but you’re literally
Island, Great Barrier floating on your bed, lulled to sleep by the waves and sky as you’re rubbed down with botanical oils and the
Reef Amala products exclusive to this spa in Australia. A deep soak and a killer massage? How could you not be in?

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Evian Bath, Hotel This treatment isn’t explicitly mentioned on their website, but it’s a secret that Serena Williams revealed to the world not
Victor South Beach too long ago, and it’s the definition of luxury. If you rent their penthouse suite, you get to float in 1,000 liters of Evian
while picturesque fuchsia Gerber daisies float around you for an “American Beauty” vibe. Premium snacks like foie gras,
smoked salmon lollipops, and the finest chocolate are available to munch on like a king or queen, if the desire bubbles
up!

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F ASHION AND BEAUTY

The Rising Fashion Designers of 2017

MANAGING EDITOR : GLORIA MENSAH
PHOTOS BY : MICHAEL A . CLUDINE

2017 has already showcased a wide range of styles. Through futuristic, for both men and women to wear for any occasion.
chic, and edgy looks, this year has been filled with trendsetting fashion From his oversized fur gloves to his futuristic jacket collars,
statements. As we marvel in the latest fashion trends, we wanted to shed Malan Breton will continue to make you wonder what else he
light on a few noteworthy designers that are making their mark on the has up his sleeve.
global runway stage.
Another Irina you should keep an eye on is Austrain fashion
One designer you should keep an eye on is Korean designer, designer, Irina Vitjaz. Born in Russia, Irina Vitjaz roots have
Young-hee Park and his collection, Greedilous. Greedilous was the shaped her designs and have influenced her passion for
first collection shown during the Concept Korea Fall/Winter 2017 fashion. Her collection features extravagant couture gowns
collective. Park’s collection stunned the crowd with its artistic that showcase Irina’s versatility and incredible focus to details.
curation and innovation. Inspired in part by Salvador Dali’s From elegant to revealing designs, Irina Vitjaz showcases a
surrealist paintings, Park’s integration of vibrant prints and original range of mesmerizing pieces for any women to wear.
textiles showcased his infinite skill sets and his ability to coordinate
a daring, yet cohesive show. From his use of python-print velvet Our final rising designer is no other then Anniesa Hasibuan.
textiles to his oversized neon fur jackets, Young-hee Park has made A fashion designer from Indonesia, Anniesa Hasibuan opened
his mark in the Fashion World. From the looks of it, Park is here to her first boutique in Kemang in early 2015. Her fashion debut
stay. We think Salvador Dali would surely agree! was held in London in March 2015. Luckily, Anniesa made
sure she showed her extraordinary talents on the NYFW
Project Runway winner, Irina Shabeyeva, is another designer you runway.
will not want to take your eyes from. Her new lingerie collection is
daring, seductive, and a must-have for any confident, flirtatious During her NYFW debut, she became the first designer to
woman. From the bold colors to her beautiful laced pieces, Irina present a NYFW collection with hijabs. Every model in her show
Shabeyeva presents a captivating and unified collection. Also, her adorned her head with an elegant, beautiful hijab that
show- stopping feathered head piece during her recent NYFW show companied every piece. In a collection inspired by her
finale was the most talked about piece of the evening. Irina’s lingerie hometown, Jakarta, Anniesa Hasibuan’s collection consists of
collection is in a class (or bedroom) of its own. And we adore her for hijabs worn with trousers, suits, kimonos, tunics, and gowns all
it! in colorful silks and patterns. Each look is intricate and styled
to perfection. Anniesa has brought a new, modern perspective
Another Project Runway favorite, Malan Breton, brings nothing to the fashion world!
less than fashion masterpieces. From metallic textiles to head-
turning trench coats, Malan Breton presents a cohesive collection We cannot wait to see how these rising designers continue
to disrupt and advance the world of fashion.

C O NCEPT K OREA - GREEDIL OUS P .Y.H.

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IRINA VITJ AZ

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DEKĀD
LIFESTYLE

ANNIESA HASIBUAN ANNIESA HASIBUAN M ALAN BR ET ON MALAN BRETON

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DomenicoVacca & Eleonora Pieroni

TheNewPower Coupleof Fashion

Interviewer : C r y s t a l B e r g e r

The Italian fashion designer, Domenico Vacca, who has Berger: So what about this bag sells or makes celebrities
suited up stars like Daniel Day Lewis, Denzel want to carry this bag?

Washington, Terrence Howard, Jeremy Piven, Al Vacca: I think there are many reasons. One reason is that
it's very unique is it an original design that is very
Pacino, Glenn Close, Jodie Foster and many more, has different from pretty much any design that you find out
had a renowned impact to the fashion world. With the there. Also, I like the round shape. You know everyone
says that round shapes are very sexy. So I think it is a very
brand new flagship retail store in the heart of sexy design. And also because we did it in different
materials. These ones are actually how it was made in the
Manhattan, Vacca has altered the perception of luxury beginning – alligator. And also we did it in leather and five
different sizes. Also, I find it very interesting because the
and has implemented a new lifestyle concept. The bag can also open up and so gives you a little bit more
Domenico Vacca flagship on 5 West 55th Street in New extra space. For our colors, we go from honey colors to
pink and comes in leather and many different colors. We
York City consists of the new men’s and women’s do many different colors…we love colors So as you can
already start seeing, there is a touch of color pretty much
boutique, a café, barber shop, hair salon, members- in everything we do.
only club, art gallery and luxury residences. His store
Berger: So I did notice you have the loafers here in a
has helped the brand grow into an experience, variety of colors. Why do you use so much color in your
collection?
influential lifestyle brand with an extensive list of
famous and influential clients. With his fiancée, model Vacca: Because I think colors are fun. Makes you always in
a good mood. And also they give you a way to relate to
and actress Eleonora Pieroni by his side, there is no clothes in a more creative way. You know, the color of
New York is black. Coming from the South of Italy and
question this powerful duo is the New Power Couple from Italy in general, where everything is beautiful and
colorful from the colors of the flowers to the colors of the
of Fashion. paintings in the churches, colors are very important to us.
And I think colors are important to everybody because I
We were able to have an exclusive interview with think colors really put you in a great mood and really
Domenico Vacca about his lifestyle brand and its makes you have fun with clothes. See, the concept of the
future endeavors. A excerpt from this exclusive entire collection, what we have been doing for many
interview is below. You can find the full clip of our years, is to give women and in particular men the ability
interview on the Dekad Lifestyle site. to have fun with clothes and not just to get dressed in the
morning.
Berger: Pleasure meeting you Domenico. I am so excited to
see your place. So I always say that if you spend five minutes a day to
think about what you are going to wear, after awhile it is
Vacca: Yes. Welcome! Let me give you a tour. going to become a fun process. And then you can express
your personality and what you like through your clothes
Berger: Wow! This place is amazing. and I think colors are a very important part of that. You
see, many companies will say every season has a different
Vacca: Thank you. It’s a very special place. color. We always say that every season has all colors.
When they ask me what is the color of the season I say
Berger: Tell me about it. the color of the season is quality, it is not a color. Because
at our level we can do any color we want. Why would we
Vacca: This is Domenico Vacca. The brand has been in New want to focus on one color? Some big companies need to
York for 15 years. We’ve had three stores and a year ago stick to one color because they need to make so many
came the opportunity to combine all of them under the products that they need to stay with one color or it will
same roof. So we are on 55th Street between Fifth Avenue become complicated. At our level, since we do something
and Sixth Avenue. When you walk in we have our men’s that is luxury and special, we have the leisure to play with
and women’s selections such as clothing, accessories, as many colors as we want and our clients love it.
tableware, and eyewear. There is pretty much everything
that the brand does right now. So this is the entrance and
mainly we have all our accessories. I can give you a tour
and we will start with the women’s best friends. Shoes!
These are some pieces of our shoe collection. Of course
everything is designed by us and made in Italy. Then we go
to our hand bag collection. This is our iconic bag and this is
called the Julie bag. I designed it some years ago and it is
becoming an iconic handbag for us. A lot of celebrities
have bought it and they wear it and where it so we are
very proud of this design.

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DomenicoVacca & Eleonora Pieroni
TheNewPower Coupleof Fashion

Interviewer : C r y s t a l B e r g e r

I’ll take you to another place. Right now we are at the You know when everything is online and digital and
center ground floor of the boutique. We decided to everything else….the idea was to create a place that is
have a café, a full-blown café, open to the public. It more about the experience. So you can come here, you
reminds us of a café in Milan, in this case, with the can have an espresso, you can do a little shopping. You
two beautiful picture size wall paper next to the café. will see that you can go to the hair salon or you can go to
They are images of one of the most important the art gallery. So it is a place where you can hangout
galleries in Milan where inside there are a lot of cafes. right in the center of Manhattan.
So the idea is that you feel like you are in Milan, Italy,
having your espresso or your cappuccino right here. Now we enter the heart, the core of the fashion part of
And you can sit here or you can sit almost at the the building. The center of our flagship store. This is the
entrance of the store. We really wanted to make it women’s gallery where we have the women’s collection.
flow and have this approach where people can come These are – talking about color —I don’t think we missed
in and be in a café in the middle of a beautiful store any color in this showcase. This is our classic, silk shirts for
and relax and have a true Italian experience even if we women that we have been doing for many years and is
are in the middle of Manhattan. one of our best selling shirts that come with Swarovski
buttons and a higher collar so it is a great piece to have in
Berger: Definitely. And what I find interesting about your wardrobe.
this is that it is a high-end, luxury place but it is open
to the public to come and enjoy the experience of Berger: And it is something you can take from daytime to
Italy. So that is really awesome. nighttime.

Vacca: Absolutely. I think that luxury right now is one DV: Absolutely. You can wear it with jeans and then you
of the most over used words. And for certain people can dress it up at night with a great black skirt and high
they get intimidated. And our point was absolutely heels. You can make it for a cocktail event or for going out
not. Luxury can be appreciated by all and certain for dinner in the city. Over here is our spring collection, so
things can have also a price point and make sense we go from cotton to linen to lace. This is an interesting
especially for the quality that it is. We always say, piece because its actually a dress and the lace is all
instead of buying certain things every season build printed with colors and design on top.
your wardrobe. Buy two pieces a season and you will
end up with an amazing wardrobe. Instead of having Berger: And it is very intricate the design here. It looks
things that you buy that are not really well made that like it is hand made.
you are going to throw out in two months. So it is a
different approach. Vacca: Yes. This you have to do by hand. You have to print
it by hand. It is very delicate but it is very unique. Every
We want are clients to open their closets and say, “Oh piece that we design has to have something special
my God I have so much to wear” instead of saying “I otherwise it doesn’t make sense for us to have it. So from
have nothing to wear”. So it is about collecting clothes just a cotton shirt that has a particular color, height, or a
and to build a wardrobe for you, for you persona, for silk shirt. This is actually interesting. This is our new
your personality, and for the lifestyle that you have. design of silk shirts. This is lace. And also the buttons are
So the concept is that luxury is not something only covered in lace and the cuffs are in laces. Beautiful colors
one percent of people can afford. You will see that for spring. So pretty much everything we do has to have
many of the things that we make are very affordable. some meaning to it.
Our espresso is very affordable but because the idea is
that everybody can come and enjoy this beautiful Throughout the store we have an art exhibition. So we
place. It was created to create an experience. started from the entrance where we have a statue that is
called “The Fire Woman” from a creation artist called
Steven Lupino and then these two are Domingo Zapata
and upstairs you will see the center of the art gallery. So it
is fashion meets art and many other things.

Berger: And Fashion is Art!

Vacca: Yes! Absolutely. Some people say that.

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Creative Director: Hakim DuBois
Photography: Danny Chin and Michael
Clubine
Model: Eleonora Pieroni
Designer: Sylvio NYC
Hair Stylist: Mary Blanchet (Licari
Cutler Salon)
MUA: Stacey Stephenson
Editor: Jorge Gonzalez

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WHEN ANNOUNCING THE AUDI / NVIDIA P ARTNERSHIP , P
R E S ID E N T O F A U D I A M E R I C A S C O T T K E O UG H S T A T ED
THA T WE ’ LL BE SE E ING “ HIGH L Y AUT OMA TED C ARS ,
OPE RA TING IN N U M E R O U S C O N D I T I O N S , IN 2 0 2 0 ”.

S itting at the beginning of the year, When announcing the Audi/Nvidia partnership,

THE TOP 3 TECH CES never fails to give a glimpse of the future, and this President of Audi America Scott Keough stated that
TRENDS ACCORDING year was no different. Thousands of companies attended
the 50th annual CES for this techie show and tell, and a we’ll be seeing “highly automated cars, operating in
TO CES few key trends became apparent. Let’s take a look...
numerous conditions, in 2020”. Such vehicles are
CONTRIBUTING WRITER : CLAIRE PETERSEN
considered “Level 4” autonomous cars, meaning that

they can get you from A to B without needing any

human involvement. ---

Carmakers took center stage at CES this year, as major Until then, we will see self-driving technologies
manufacturers announced the partnerships that are creep into transportation more and more. Expect
taking us closer to the future of personal transportation. It cars that operate autonomously in certain
should come as no surprise that the future looks likely to circumstances - Nissan is releasing a Leaf car that can
involve much less manual driving as we know it - every self-drive on highways - and ride-sharing companies
carmaker worth noting is pouring resources into to release more autonomous fleets.
autonomous cars.

We all know fully self-driving cars are coming to the While we all spend hours of the day staring at
consumer market, but when? Well, in about three screens, rarely do we notice them. But there were a
years, if you’re to believe Audi. few screens that you couldn’t glance past at CES.

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Virtual assistants are taking over.
For years manufacturers have been
trying to convince us that we don’t just
need a fridge, we need a smart fridge. It
all fell a bit flat, and the general
population didn’t jump at the chance of
buying a $2,000 fridge with a touchscreen
and wifi. But all that looks set to change
this year as virtual assistants take over
the world - or at least your home
appliances.

Amazon’s Alexa is leading the way with
countless devices that support it, thanks
to the fact that third-party developers
have been able to play with the
technology since 2015. Whirlpool have
integrated Alexa into their new range of
appliances that will be available early this
year. Speak to Alexa through your Echo
Speaker or Fire TV and you can preheat
your oven, change the temperature of
your fridge, or find out when your clothes
will be dry. They’re simple tasks, sure, but
these little productivity hacks build up to
make life noticeably easier.

Then, of course, in the spirit of making
everything smarter, carmakers are getting
in on the action. Both Nissan and BMW
announced that they are integrating
Microsoft’s Cortana into some of their
new releases. You’ll be able to manage
your calendar, update your to-do list and
get your daily news fix all while driving to
work.

Perhaps most notable is the show-stopping Razer Project Valerie. A laptop with three 17 inch screens, it is There you have it, three trends that stood
quite a sight to behold. If you’re wondering why on earth you’d need three screens for one laptop, you’re out for us at CES. Laptops with three
probably not a gamer. While it’s just a concept piece right now, it’s clear that this could be a portable screens, virtual assistants on every one of
alternative to the multi- screen gaming setup on a desktop computer that gamers have embraced. your gadgets and slick driverless cars. Can
we preorder the future already?

It’s not only gamers who are getting a taste of what the future of monitors could look like. Photographers
and graphic artists rejoice: one billion colors and 33 megapixels are all on offer with the $4,999 Dell UP3218K.
Every pixel can be preened to perfection with that kind of monitor. While this model will appeal mostly to
professionals, expect the high quality specs to trickle down to other monitors in the coming years.

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PREMIERE IS SUE 20
17

THE ARTS

MACKENZIE SPINDLER: A TRUE TRAILBLAZER

C ONTRIBUTIBNG WRITER : MEGAN WRAPPE What inspired you to start MIKISPIN?
What is your goal for it?
You sold your first painting at 8yrs old, what I had two practices a day year round and once I
I always had a job, even as a kid. At 10
made you get started so young? was in high school, three. I placed fourth in State years old, I worked at the The City
Museum - Bob Cassilly was a very close
My parents are both creatives, I think growing up and held a few records. I played soccer and field family friend. MIKISPIN was kind of the
beginning of my independence.I started
in that kind of atmosphere definitely contributes hockey as well. I did gymnastics when I was it when I was 16. Once I got my license I
was driving to gigs to shoot.
to how my career came about. younger, later joined the circus and became a
Looking back, it’s kind of crazy... I was
flying trapeze artist with Circus Flora. I still have a shooting at venues I’d otherwise be
denied at the door for being underage. I
Did your family support your art growing up? trapeze at my home in Saint Louis. Whenever I guess they assumed I was of age since I
came with equipment, no one ever really
I feel blessed to have such supportive parents. go back I make sure to jump back on, but I’m not asked. I assisted photographers/ directors
for a long time, in Saint Louis as well as
My dad is super sarcastic. He rarely told me he nearly as good. I got the musical side from my New York City. I sought out brilliant
mentors and had great opportunities
was proud of me growing up which pushed me mom, she always had big jam sessions during because of it. Moving forward, I see
MIKISPIN transforming into more of a
to keep doing better (and I thank him for that!). her eclectic parties. We travelled a lot together. I production house, a creative design
collective. I want to invite new ideas and
I wasn’t the easiest kid. I liked to test my limits think being exposed to different cultures so collaborations between creatives.

and grew up very fast because of it. Mom and young shaped a lot of who I am today. But one

Pops met in NYC and ended up flipping houses of my favorite places was in the darkroom and

in Saint Louis. Even though I don’t remember out taking photos. I fell in love with photography

much of that time I think that’s where my and stuck with it ever since.

industrial influence rooted from. Everything I

do I have my parents to thank for --without How would you describe your work? My work is a
them I wouldn’t be where I’m at now. direct representation of me. By putting it out for

What was your childhood like? the world, it is really the most vulnerable thing I
I become quite nostalgic thinking of my could do. Its expressionism. I describe it as
childhood, I think because I’m so far removed scrappy, sexy, urban, layered with grunge and
from it. I was a swimmer, took after my dad. purity.

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You create your art with so many different What kind of artist would you call yourself? “Innocence Vs. Insanity”. It’s been non
mediums, do you have a favorite? I don’t think I called myself an artist until someone stop super fast work for months, it will
Honestly, I don’t think I have a favorite made it apparent to me. I’ve always loved to make be interesting to see what comes from
medium. What excites me most is the concept and create and be out of the world, it’s in my soul. it. I haven’t always worked like this.
behind the piece. The material is just how I Now, I have the job title. Technically speaking
express it. Yet, I know my love for film will though, I would call myself something along the I like to think when I win, everyone
never die. The notion of capturing a moment in lines of an Urban Contemporary Mixed Medium wins. An achievable goal of mine is to
time that can’t ever repeat again captivates me. Artist. get to a place where I can give more
What artists or artistic movements inspire you back to the foundations and charities I
or your work the most?
You’ve had pieces at so many shows, including respect…make a difference in the mad
I love the minds of Nikola Tesla, Damien Art Basel. What is that experience like for you world we live in. My goals are a lot
Hurst, Gerard Ritcher, Cindy Sherman… the list when you sell one of your pieces? bigger than myself and it will take a lot
continues. I’m inspired by architecture, Zaha It’s a great honor when I sell a piece. To have to get there. I make them as I succeed
Hadid was genius. My friend Bjarke Ingles that gesture of recognition is humbling. further. I keep my goals practical. And
continues to amaze me with his designs. I have my dreams big.
nods to fashion within my work as well, so What is special about your particular
many unique designers in NY. I’m obsessed audience? Does anything strike you most about What would be your advice to future
with Caroline Sarria down the street from my them? artists?
apartment. New York City is inspiring in itself, so I love that my audience is so interactive and Create atmosphere in worlds unknown.
many creatives bustling about its hard to even they share their thoughts with me. One of the Instigate reflection. Master your craft.
know where to start. best parts of what I do is being able to invoke Learn something everyday. Stop thinking
emotion to spectators. so hard. Have opinion. Find balance. Lose
yourself to find yourself again and again.

Do you have any messages you are trying to To date, what has been your most successful project

say in your pieces? or your favorite one to work on?
I started making art as a way to express what
goes on in my head. I’m a doer, not a talker. I That’s hard to gauge. Art Basel was definitely
let the pieces speak for themselves, and successful. It’s always satisfying to have successes.
there’s something that can be said through But I’m more in a place of looking forward to the
each. For now, I just put it out there and see projects ahead. I think my favorite and most
what happens. I’m not trying to push any successful project is ongoing, Project: Life! I’m living
message onto the public thats not what I want it…and I’m loving it. But seriously, I’m grateful to be
my art to represent. It makes me feel, and if it surrounded by talented friends, Miguel Ovalle,
makes you feel too, that's cool. I am definitely Adam Dare, Whisbe, Harif Guzman, Laura Weyl,
trying to bring attention to certain matters Gumshoe, Eddy Bogaert, Dante Latessa, Stephen
and open minds. I like to say “no one wants Garnett, Mario De Armas…there’s always fun
advice they don’t ask for”. Maybe they could projects going on!

use it, but if they aren’t ready for it will not You have quite a few upcoming shows and
receive it. You’ll just have to come find your exhibitions, what are you currently working on?
message at my next show! Well, I’m still in Los Angeles, arrived after two days

Your street art project of reinventing the home in New York from Miami. I had a few shows
advertisements is a tricky piece, how do you here mid December. I’ve been working out of
manage to do it without being caught? Adam Dare’s studio in Hollywood. I made one
Well, I just don’t get caught. But really, it’s not piece which happily found a home days later and
illegal. No one says you can’t take ads down. another in progress. Once I get back to New York
Only “Post No Bills” up. In a way I represent an I’ll be making all new bodies of work in preparation
inception of bills. for shows ahead in NYC and Paris March 1. I am so
excited to bring a vision of mine for years finally
How has history influenced your work? to life. I can’t say much yet but the title is
We are history in the making. The past, present,

and future all go into my work.

35 – Premiere Issue

WH I L E THE 2 016 MOVIE , WHICH
W ON BEST PICTURE AND
ADAPTED S C R E E N P L A Y AT THE
OSCARS , IS PARTICULARL Y
ABOUT THE STRUGGLES OF A
BLACK MAN COMING TO T E R M S
WITH HIS SEXUALITY AS G A Y ,
THE CENTRAL QUESTION IS ONE
WHICH ALL OF THE MOVIE ’ S
AUDIENCE MEMBERS C AN
IDENTIFY WITH : “ WHO AM I ? ”

36 – Premiere Issue

WHO IS YOU? A Closer Look At Moonlight “Who is you, man?” The 2017 Oscar The movie does not waste time in And because of this, Juan’s death, not
CONTRIBUTING WRITER: LUCY MENSAH winning film, through the character characterizing Chiron’s difficult depicted on screen, signals a huge loss
of the protagonist’s estranged high life. In the beginning of the movie, for Chiron, who is now, in the second
school lover, begs this central a prominent drug dealer in Liberty part of the film, a lanky, quiet teenager
question. While the 2016 movie, City, Miami, named Juan (played by trying to navigate school bullying and
which won Best Picture and Adapted Oscar winner, Mahershala Ali, for loneliness. Chiron carries himself
Screenplay at the Oscars, is Best Supporting Actor) watches as awkwardly and hesitantly, and his fear
particularly about the struggles of a a young boy, Chiron, (played by of his peers is all too palpable. The
black man coming to terms with his Alex R. Hibbert) is chased into an actor playing teenaged Chiron, Ashton
sexuality as gay, the central question abandoned project building by a Sanders, manages to capture the toil
is one which all of the movie’s group of his peers. His that comes with being bullied at school.
audience members can identify with: serendipitous encounter with Ali, It registers through the timid eyes and
“Who am I?” who coaxes him out of his boarded hunched shoulders; the unsure,
up, hiding place, provides Chiron awkward movements. The stakes of
The movie sets out to provide a look with a temporary but loving home. fitting into high school society is higher,
into Chiron’s world, from boyhood to Chiron’s single-mother Paula and Chiron appears lost, unfamiliar
adulthood. And this challenge of self- (played by Naomie Harris) is a busy with the terrain of black male
understanding takes place amidst the nurse who has suspicion that aggression that his peers show, peer
beauty of Miami’s landscape. One something about her son is out of banter and teenage sex. Chiron, simply,
word that properly describes the film step with the“normal” expectations is no match for the cruelty of high
is sumptuous. The rich, saturated of how boys should behave. school.
hues and tones of the movie and the Compounded with this is her
tropical feel of the movie seems to descent into crack cocaine, which But his rambunctious childhood
belie the dark, heartbreaking heightens her already existing acquaintance/ friend, Kevin (played by
narrative that is at the center of the Jharrel Jerome), although popular,
film. frustration, anger and sadness, which reaches out to Chiron, serving as his
is often directed at her son. Ultimately, tenuous connection to high school life.
37 – Premiere Issue she fails to provide Chiron a safe, While a boy with good looks, a funny
nurturing space where he can properly personality and experience with girls,
explore the questions he has about Kevin feels misunderstood and appears
who he is. Juan, along with his live- in to be yearning for something beyond the
girlfriend, Teresa (played by Janelle popularity contest of high school and the
Monáe), become the loving family loneliness of home in Liberty City. And
Chiron has never had. In one of the this is made clear in one of the climatic
most poignant, beautiful images in the parts of the film, when he and Chiron
movie, akin to a baptismal scene, Juan serendipitously encounter each other
teaches Chiron how to swim in the on an empty beach that both go to in
ocean. He supports an apprehensive order to seek the solace and comfort of
Chiron in order to teach him how to the water, sand and breeze. This
float on his back. When Chiron starts encounter is rendered beautifully by the
swimming on his own, first timid then director and cinematographer, gradually
eager, Juan, along with the audience, developing into a love scene that is kept
are proud; he is learning, slowly, to private between Chiron and Jerome and
face his obstacles. For someone who is not fully seen by the audience.
a drug- dealer and who both Chiron
and the audience barely know, Ali’s
character is endearing, sincere, and
obviously takes interest in Chiron. The
way he looks and plays with Chiron
makes him out to appear as an
unexpected father-figure.

The intimate exchange, assumingly Chiron’s first sexual experience, captures the beach as not only an intimate space, but as
a quiet, endearing witness, a safe space, where Chiron can grow into who he already is.

Chiron and Kevin’s new romantic interest in each other comes into conflict with the labels and burdens of the demands of
black masculinity. Lover is turned against lover via the demands of a callous, pernicious school bully, Terrel (played by Patrick
Decile), who dares Kevin to punch Chiron until he stays on the ground. Chiron, slowly emerging as a man who refuses to stay
down, is told repeatedly by a hurt and guilty Jerome to stay down to the ground lest Jerome is forced to strike him in the face
until he does. As the betrayed lover, Chiron’s refusal to stay down points to both a steadfastness to abide to the violent
demands of masculinity and determination not to absolve Jerome of his guilt and hurry the process; if Chiron refuses to stay
down, Jerome will have to continue to pummel him. Chiron refuses to make it easy. Without giving away one of the most
climatic points of the film, teenage Chiron’s revenge against the school bully (which left the audience clapping) catapults him
into a hypermasculine adulthood.

P HO TOS BY :ST AR F R E N Z Y

In Part 3 of the movie, we find adult Chiron (played by Trevante Rhodes) as a drug dealer living in Atlanta, with the
accouterments associated with trap culture: du-rags, gold teeth, and cars outfitted with shiny rims and bass-booming, lean-
music- playing speaker systems. Chiron’s softness with Jerome, however, belies his hard exterior toward the end of the film.
When he returns to Miami to visit the adult Jerome (played by André Holland), an ex- inmate now become restaurant owner
and cook, we as the audience realize that despite all of the physical changes and experiences of Chiron, the little, blue,
wounded boy, looking for love and safety, is still inside him.

38 – Premiere Issue

39 – Premiere Issue

What were your early years like? What Took a ton of self introspection, and
were you interested in as a kid? even more work. I read a lot, and am
I grew up here in NYC, was always a always trying to improve, personally
tinkerer, a creator. My childhood and professionally. I have changed my
hobbies centered around blocks and habits, which in turn have changed my
erector sets (as my childhood was pre life “We are what we repeatedly do.
computer). My parents encouraged my Excellence then is not an act, its a
creative endeavors by sending me to habit” - Will Durant (one of my favorite
various art programs including the art quotes).
students league, for sculpture classes
and summer program at RISD. I was Do you see any similarities between your
always fascinated with the form and hospitality and tech career and your art
function of objects, the intersection of career?
art end engineering. Probably the Art is a business. As an artist you need
reason I ended up studying industrial to manage creative direction,
design in college. Or as I liked to call production, marketing PR, sales,
Industrial Design: sculpture with scheduling, inventory, etc. The most
purpose. famous artists are amazing marketers
and business people, not just incredible
After working at Pink Elephant, Vip creatives.

Room, and Provocateur, which of the You’re a jack of all trades, what made
you switch careers to being an artist?
venues was your favorite and least I never really switched, I have always
been an artist and a creator, though at
favorite? times it has taken different forms. I
didn’t just become an artist, I have
I am fortunate to have had a long and evolved into one. It took years to
eventually find the courage to share my
SHAWN KOLODNY:successful career in the hospitality work with the world. Now that I have
opened myself up and shared my work,
business, owning and operating many the universe is conspiring to help me
become a successful artist.
of the more successful nightclubs in My least favorite was Vip Room, as we took a
new York. My favorite is the Pink license from a brand in Paris, which didn’t What has been your biggest struggle as
Elephant. We created a powerful and quite fit in NYC, though it was a positive an artist? Self doubt, not thinking my
memorable brand. The brand was what learning experience. work is good enough. Questioning why
you said it was, a Pink Elephant (similar people would like it.

to the black dog from Martha’s Did you gain any helpful resources needed for Are there any artists who have inspired
your work or influenced you?
Vinyard), concurrently connecting to a success as an artist when you were working in There are so many artists that inspire
turn of the century colloquialism; nightlife? If so, who/what are they? me, Marico Catalan, Amish Kapoor,
drinking so much that you would see I have learned how to schedule and mange my James Tyrell, Mel Bochner, Lisa Lou,
Banksy, Brainwash. Whisbe, Mister E,
pink elephants. time efficiently. My network has also had quite a Jojo Anvim, the list goes on and on.

Musically transformative, and at the bit of overlap with my art and has definitely
forefront of the Edm music wave that helped with sales
eventually took over the nightclub

world. You mentioned in another interview that during

The space was beautifully designed, and your nightlife career “you were a horrible person”.
built by our team. I even welded the How did you make the transition to become the
ironwork behind the bar. The heightened great successful person you are today?

aesthetic continued in our operations,

hyper exclusive, the people inside where as

beautiful as the room itself. It was a special

place.

40 – Premiere Issue

How would you describe your work? What do you want other people to
The Intersection of Pop and Mathematics. know about you? I am a voracious
reader, an occasional writer, and I
What is your personal creation have a terrible sweet tooth (I love
process like? cake).
I get an conceptual idea stuck in my
head, then spend a ton of time What are your future goals as an
attempting to get those ideas into a artist?
physical form. It manifests through There are too many goals to list,
experimentation, with each iteration but here are a few from the top
getting closer to fulfilling the idea I of my head:
began with. -Keep creating work that moves
and inspires.
What have the reactions to your work -Continue to build a strong
been? collector base
They have been amazing, my work -Create more street art
-Create larger installations
seems to connect with lots of people. -Launch a new series of work
I have been experimenting
NIGHTLIFE GURU Wynwood Arcade opened during with.
TURNED ARTISITC Miami Art Basel 2016. What was the -Large scale sculptural works
WONDER process like to exhibit your work (larger production - capabilities
there? to execute the ideas I have)
C ONTRIBUTING WRITER : MEGAN WRAPPE It is an artist in residence program. I -Increase Social Media Presence
received studio space to to work and -More collaborations with other
showcase my work. artists
-Continue to build a great
Is there anything your reading or watching that’s So far, what is your most memorable team. More art fair
influencing your work? moment as an artist? participation
I just read Seven Days in the Art World and 33 Artists Learning that growth comes out of -Museum Show
in 3 Acts by Sarah Thornton. Both give such a deep failure. Some of the work and
and wonderful perspective on the art world and its techniques I love the most have come
hierarchy, as well as an in depth look into some from “mistakes”, that then become
amazing artists and how they approach their work. techniques. Teaching myself trial and
Was enlightening. error, teaching myself to being ok with
“ruining” a work to try something new.
Do you listen to anything to help you focus? Luckily those moments happen all the
Depending on the work I am doing, I tend to listen to time.
audio books unless I am working on math formulas
and equations, in which case I work in silence. What has being an artist taught you about
yourself? That with enough work and
effort, you can become anyone you want
to be.

Is there an era of art that speaks to you more than Do you see yourself staying an artist
others? forever or are there possible career
I am a big fan of contemporary and modern art. I am changes?
particularly excited about the explosion of street art Career changes are always possible, but
sweeping the world. right now it is my passion, and only feel
like I am at the beginning. I have too many
41– Premiere Issue ideas in my head that I want to create.





44 – Premiere Issue

“ SEEING HIM STAND IN FRONT
OF ME AND THE POWER HE HAD
AND EVERY ONE SINGING
ALONG W AS EMOTIONAL AND
MAJESTIC A T THE SAME TIME .
”

45 – Premiere Issue

ONEYEARAFTER HIS DEATH His next album, “Hunky Dory” was released in
FRIENDS REMEMBER DAVID 1971 followed by the first appearance of Ziggy
BOWIE’SHUMOR, MUSIC Stardust on Bowie’s 1972 album “The Rise and
Fall of Ziggy Stardust And the Spiders From
C ONTRIBUTING WRITER :MEG AN WRAPPE Mars.” Bowie was beginning to come into his
PHO T OS BY : DOMINICK CONDE own, or Ziggy’s own as he began experimenting
with wild colored wigs, bedazzled body suits,
When you think of musician David Bowie, there’s and flamboyant makeup. And soon, Ziggy
not just one picture or song to describe him. His Stardust and David Bowie became one and the
many stage names, like Ziggy Stardust, the Thin same.
White Duke, and Major Tom, are all so different.
But somehow, they were all played by the same “David was a totally funny and normal person,”
man. friend Dominik Conde said. “We were back in
his hotel room once and he grabbed a hat and
David Bowie left behind quite the legacy in music, started doing impersonations of himself and his
art and film when he passed away from cancer on girlfriend Melissa Hurley and I were cracking up.
January 10, 2016. And now that he is gone, the He just had a huge sense of humor and was very
world is just beginning to rediscover the man funny off stage.”
behind the makeup and the musician behind some
of pop’s best songs. But friends who knew him Bowie continued to experiment with both his
best remember the funny, caring man they knew music and his look which were extremely
off stage. important on his next album, 1973’s “Aladdin
Sane.” He appeared on the cover with his signature
David Bowie was born David Robert Jones on orangey red and blue lightning bolt across his
January 8, 1947. He was born and raised in South forehead and pink eye shadow on his eye lids
London and had a passion for music at a young which has since become his signature look. He
age. Bowie released his first self-titled album in described his sound for “Aladdin Sane” and his
June, 1967, and two years later, he reemerged on other 1973 album “Pin Ups” as “plastic soul,” which
the music scene with a completely new look. seemed to alienate some of his British fans. His
next release, 1974’s “Diamond Dogs” added more
His next album, “Space Oddity,” was released in fuel to the fire, but with the release of his single,
June, 1969 and became Bowie’s first top-five entry “Fame” in 1975 off of his record “Young
on the UK Singles Chart. It also had the very Americans” and a hit role in the film “The Man
beginnings of Bowie’s iconic sound. With wild Who Fell To Earth,” Bowie became a bonafide
tangled hair on the album cover, it was clear that superstar across the world.
Bowie was not meant for the “boy next door” look
his first album had portrayed him as. His music was “My favorite memory of David was when we were
anything but traditional, but that’s exactly the way playing a music festival in Sweden, and it was the
he wanted it. first time that I was playing in a stadium like that,”
Rojas said. “Seeing him stand in front of me and the
“He didn't write to please the people, he wrote for power he had and everyone singing along was
himself,” said Carmine Rojas, a member of Bowie’s emotional and majestic at the same time.”
band. “He never repeated himself, we just went
with him. He wanted to find out where he was able “Young Americans’ was then followed by “Station to
to guide and shape the music the way he wanted Station” in 1976, “Low” in 1977, “Heroes” in 1977,
into something awesome and I completely got and “Lodger” in 1979. His 1980 album, “Scary
braver in attempting so many things which was Monsters (And Super Creeps)” brought him fame all
fantastic.” over again with his singles “Under Pressure” and
“Ashes To Ashes.” His next release, “Let’s Dance,”
46 – Premiere Issue was even more popular.

He continued to release album after album well into
the 1990s and even 2000s, but Bowie was not just a
musician. He took on roles in movies too, where he
portrayed Jareth the Goblin King in “Labyrinth,”
artist Andy Warhol in 1996’s “Basquiat,” and even
gave the introduction to the animated movie “The
Snowman” (1982). And he also tried his hand at
theatre in 2015 with his show “Lazuras” in 2015.
The show, co-written by Bowie and Enda Walsh acts
as a sequel to Walter Tevis’ “The Man Who Fell to
Earth,” which gave Bowie a screen credit in the role
of Newton in the 1976 film version.

The show picks up with Newton (Hall) being totally
immersed in life on earth but also unable to die while
everyone he knew has already passed on. With the
arrival of an imaginary girl however, she may just be the
key to send him home.

“It’s a very existential drama about why are we here,
what does it mean, is there something after we are
gone?” said Ivo van Hove, the show’s musical director,
in the New York Times.

Bowie was able to attend the show’s opening night but
was in a very frail condition at the time. No one knew of
his sickness, except van Hove, and his sudden death
had a profound impact on the show’s popularity but
also personally touched everyone who worked on it.

“I was thrilled to work with David and I’m thrilled we’re
being honored and recognized,” said Sophia Anne
Caruso, Girl in “Lazarus.” “We weren’t aware of his
illness at all, and not everyone got the message of the
show at first. But I did and now I understand it even
more.”

And through his music, more and more people are
beginning to know just what kind of person David
Bowie was. But for the people who knew him
personally, they know that he is still here and always
will be.

“David didn’t do the usual rock star stuff, he played
with the critics and let them swirl their interpretations
of him,” Rojas said. “Being in his world at that time was
educational and caring for me, and he'll always be
there, he's just back on the planet where he came
from.”





50 – Premiere Issue

51 – Premiere Issue

NEW MUSICALS LIGHT Come From Away
UP BROADWAY (Schoenfeld; previews February 18; opens March
12) The fascinating and moving subject matter of
C ONTRIBUTING WRITER :MICHAEL PORTANTIERE this new show is the true story of how 38 planes
PHO TOS PRO VIDED BY : MICHAEL PORTANTIERE carrying more than 6,500 passengers were forced
to land in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland
Everyone is lamenting with full justification that 2016 on September 11, 2001. The ensemble cast
was a horrendous year in many ways, but on the includes Chad Kimball (a Tony Award nominee for
bright side, the fall did bring us three new hit Memphis), Jenn Colella (Urban Cowboy, Chaplin,
Broadways musicals: Natasha, Pierre, and The Great If/Then), and Kendra Kassebaum (Wicked, Rent).
Comet of 1812, Dear Evan Hansen, and A Bronx Tale. Directed by two-time Tony nominee Christopher
Ashley (Memphis, The Rocky Horror Show).
Over the next several months, those shows will be
joined by seven more new tuners, plus four high- Amélie
profile revivals – Glenn Close in Sunset Boulevard, Jake (Walter Kerr; previews March 9; opens April 3)
Gyllenhaal in Sunday in the Park With George, Bette Based on the delightful French film about a shy
Midler in Hello, Dolly!, and the new Cameron but inquisitive young girl who turns the streets
Mackintosh production of Miss Saigon – to make of Montmartre into a world of her own
Broadway an abundant smorgasbord for musical imagination while secretly orchestrating
theater fans, mavens, and geeks. This season’s Tony moments of joy for those around her. Starring in
Awards should be very interesting, to say the least. the plum title role is Phillipa Soo, last seen on
Here are brief descriptions of all the new musical Broadway as Eliza in Hamilton. Featuring Adam
entries set to open between January 1 and the Tony Chanler-Berat (Peter and the Starcatcher, Next
eligibility cutoff date in late April, including theaters to Normal) as Nino. Directed by Tony winner
and preview/opening dates. Pam MacKinnon

52– Premiere Issue War Paint
(Nederlander; previews March 7; opens April 6)
Two of Broadway’s biggest stars play two mid- 20th
century cosmetics icons in this new show by the
team that created Grey Gardens: Patti LuPone is
Helena Rubinstein and Christine Ebersole is
Elizabeth Arden, so stand back! Music by Scott
Frankel, lyrics by Michael Korie, book by Doug
Wright. Directed by Michael Greif (who already has
a hit this season in Dear Evan Hansen), with
choreography by Christopher Gattelli (Newsies,
The King and I, South Pacific).

Groundhog Day
(August Wilson; previews March 6; opens April 17)
Remember the 1993 movie, with Bill Murray as an
arrogant Pittsburgh weatherman who gets stuck in a
time loop and must live the same day of his life over
and over until he gets it right? That movie is now a
stage musical that was well received in London and is
coming to Broadway starring Andy Karl, who scored a
great personal success two years ago in the title role
of Rocky. Book by Danny Rubin, who co-wrote