Monthly Archives: June 2024

NEWS

Thailand Showcase 2024: Unleashing Thai creativity at Kings Cross, Canopy Market, London

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The Royal Thai Embassy is delighted to announce Thailand Showcase 2024, a three-day cultural event annually organized by the Royal Thai Embassy. This year, the event will take place from June 28 to June 30, 2024, at Kings Cross, Canopy Market, London, under the theme “Unleashing Thai Creativity,” showcasing the best of Thailand from cuisine to tourism, culture to innovation.

Following the success of previous years, with around 40,000 visitors in 2023, Thailand Showcase 2024 is set to be an even more spectacular event with a larger space, over 30 pop-up shops, and grander performances.

This year’s event will include four key elements of Thai soft power

Photos : King Cross/Thailand Showcase/DR

Taste of Thailand

Visitors can explore a culinary paradise with specially selected vendors offering authentic and high-quality Thai food and drinks, including the popular Farang London (Michelin Bib Gourmand), Slurps Noodles, Great Thai Rice and Noodle, Siam Niyom, and Chicken and Egg. These restaurants will offer a variety of options from tasty snacks to classic dishes such as Som Tum (papaya salad), Kao Soi (Northern Thai curry noodles), Gai yang (grilled chicken), and much more. Chang Beer will open a pop-up Chang Espresso Café offering Chang Espresso Lager for the first time outside Asia.

Thai Cultural Performances

Enjoy exclusive performances of classical and modern Thai dances brought directly from Thailand, including the famous Thai puppet show and Mor Lam, bringing the country’s rich cultural heritage to life through vibrant and captivating shows.

Amazing Thailand

In collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, EVA Air, and other hospitality industry companies, visitors can virtually travel to Thailand and benefit from special promotions on air tickets and other special holiday packages during the event.

Photos : King Cross/Thailand Showcase/DR

Innovative Thailand

Showcasing Thailand’s creative minds and advancements in innovation and sustainable products, such as Kera protein, a future food where chicken feathers can be turned into chicken nuggets, and many creative design products created by talented Thai designers. Visitors will see Thailand’s progress towards a low-carbon economy.Photos : King Cross/Thailand Showcase/DRShowcasing Thailand’s creative minds and advancements in innovation and sustainable products, such as Kera protein, a future food where chicken feathers can be turned into chicken nuggets, and many creative design products created by talented Thai designers. Visitors will see Thailand’s progress towards a low-carbon economy.

The event will culminate with raffle prize opportunities, including luxurious getaways, round-trip air tickets to Thailand, exclusive products, hospitality tickets for certain Premier League football teams, and much more making Thailand Showcase 2024 an unforgettable celebration of Thai creativity and innovation.

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@thailandshowcase.official

FASHION, NEWS

Naomi Campbell: Fashion icon and muse at the V&A

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The Victoria & Albert Museum in London pays tribute to Naomi Campbell, one of the most emblematic figures in fashion, through a retrospective exhibition titled “Naomi: In Fashion”.

The Victoria & Albert Museum celebrates the legendary career of Naomi Campbell, a quintessential ’90s supermodel, with the exhibition “Naomi: In Fashion”. Sponsored by BOSS, this exhibition traces four decades of a dazzling career that saw Campbell become one of the most famous models in history. Discovered at Covent Garden at the age of 15, Naomi Campbell quickly rose through the ranks to become the first black model on the cover of Vogue Paris at 18. She established herself as a supermodel of the ’90s, alongside Cindy Crawford and Claudia Schiffer, and worked with the biggest names in fashion.

Photos : Steven Meisel/ Handout/Vogue/Victoria&Albert Museum/Abaca/DR

The “Naomi In Fashion” Exhibition

The exhibition, designed in collaboration with Naomi Campbell, highlights her unique voice and perspective. It presents a hundred looks and accessories from her personal wardrobe and the V&A collections, including haute couture and ready-to-wear pieces that have marked key moments in her career.

Stunning creations

Visitors will be able to admire creations by Alexander McQueen, Azzedine Alaïa, Burberry, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and many others. Among the highlights are a spectacular corset by Thierry Mugler, a pink Valentino ensemble worn at the 2019 Met Gala, and the famous Vivienne Westwood platform shoes Naomi Campbell wore during her iconic fall 1993 runway show.

Photos : Steven Meisel/ Handout/Vogue/Victoria&Albert Museum/Abaca/DR

Fashion photography and activism

Fashion photography, with works by Campbell Addy, Nick Knight, Peter Lindbergh, and Steven Meisel, also plays a central role. The exhibition also addresses Campbell’s activism, her role with Nelson Mandela, her commitment to diversity on the runways, and her support for emerging creatives. The exhibition opens with clips of Campbell on the runway, followed by thematic sections such as “Becoming Naomi”, “Supermodel”, “Azzedine Alaïa”, “New York”, “The Spotlight”, “Exemplar”, “Alchemy”, and “Archetype”, offering an immersion into Campbell’s life and career. “Naomi: In Fashion” is a vibrant tribute to diversity and creativity in the fashion industry, celebrating an icon who has transcended the catwalk to become a driving force for social and cultural change. The exhibition is a unique opportunity to discover the indelible impact of Naomi Campbell on fashion and beyond.

Photos : Steven Meisel/ Handout/Vogue/Victoria&Albert Museum/Abaca/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

Barbie at the forefront: A fashion and design icon celebrates 65 years

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The London Design Museum unveils an unprecedented retrospective on the world’s most famous doll.

Since her inception in 1959, Barbie has been more than just a doll: she has become a cultural symbol, caught between admiration and controversy. Today, the London Design Museum pays tribute to this icon with a remarkable exhibition, “Barbie The Exhibition”, commemorating the emblematic doll’s 65th anniversary. The exhibition, which runs from July 6 to February 23, 2025, is a collaboration between the museum and toy giant Mattel. It offers a dive into Barbie’s evolution, featuring over 250 exhibits, ranging from the earliest editions to the most recent models, showcasing the brand’s adaptability and constant innovation.

Photos : © Mattel, Inc./Design Museum/DR

Many ethnicities represented by Barbie

Key pieces include the very first hand-painted Barbie, clad in her striped swimsuit, as well as prototypes and editions that have made history, such as the 1985 “Day to Night Barbie” and the 1992 “Totally Hair Barbie”, the best-selling to date. The exhibition also highlights diversity and inclusivity with dolls representing different ethnicities and abilities, thus reflecting today’s society. Visitors will also explore Barbie’s extended universe, including her friends, family, and even the famous Dreamhuse.

Fashion, an integral part of Barbie’s identity, is prominently featured with iconic outfits, some of which have inspired renowned designers and have even been embraced by celebrities like Billie Eilish. Finally, the exhibition provides insight into Barbie’s influence in popular culture, with original costumes from the 2023 “Barbie” movie and architecture designed by Sam Jacob’s studio, creating an exhibition space as bold and creative as the doll itself.

“Barbie The Exhibition” is a celebration of design, fashion, and the cultural impact of a doll that continues to captivate and inspire after more than six decades.

Photos : © Mattel, Inc./Design Museum/DR

Opentimes

10:00 – 17:00 Mondays to Thursdays
10:00 – 18:00 Fridays to Sundays

The museum is open every day including bank holidays.

.Design Museum  224 – 238 Kensington High Street, London W8 6AG, next to Holland Park.

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

A New Chapter for Fulham Broadway : Wetherspoon’s latest venture

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In a blend of historical charm and modern hospitality, a former ticket office near London’s bustling metro station is set to become the newest addition to the Wetherspoon pub family, with a unique twist on outdoor alcohol service.

West London is poised to welcome a new member to its social scene as JD Wetherspoon has been granted permission to transform an old ticket office into a vibrant pub. The disused building at Fulham Broadway station, which has recently served as a food court, is slated to be converted into a two-story pub and restaurant. This development comes following a decision by the Hammersmith and Fulham Council earlier this week. In a meeting with the licensing sub-committee, JD Wetherspoon agreed to several conditions, including the commencement of alcohol sales from 9 am instead of the initially requested 8 am. Additionally, the sale of alcoholic beverages will be confined to the pub’s outdoor terrace, addressing concerns about outdoor drinking.

Photos : Google/Fulham/DR

New dynamic for the neighborhood

This compromise reflects the chain’s commitment to integrating into the community while respecting local regulations and preferences. The new establishment is expected to breathe new life into the area, offering residents and visitors alike a place to enjoy good food, great drinks, and the company of friends in a setting that marries the historical significance of the location with the contemporary flair of Wetherspoon’s signature style. Keep an eye out for the grand opening and be ready to raise a glass to history and hospitality coming together.

Photos : Google/Fulham/DR

MUSIQUE, NEWS

ERAS TAYLOR SWIFT TOUR IN WEMBLEY : An act of kindness in full show

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In an evening that promised glitz and performance, Taylor Swift turned a concert moment into an act of concern for a fan, highlighting the importance of safety and community at her events.

Pop icon Taylor Swift recently made an impression not just with her stage performance but also with her altruistic gesture during her sold-out concert at London’s Wembley Stadium. In the midst of her show, the singer exhibited exceptional vigilance by pausing her performance to assist a distressed fan, calling for security to respond swiftly. The concert, which is the first of eight scheduled shows as part of her “Eras” tour, was temporarily halted when Swift noticed an issue in the crowd. She immediately signaled for security assistance, showing great concern for the well-being of her fans. This interruption was met with a wave of support from the audience, who commended the star’s responsible attitude.

Photos : Wembley Stadium/Eras Tour/DR

The concert series, expected to draw close to 640,000 people, is projected to boost London’s local economy by 300 million pounds. This incident only strengthened the bond between Taylor Swift and her fans, demonstrating that safety and mutual care are at the heart of her events.
Before this incident, Taylor Swift had expressed her gratitude to her fans for their overwhelming presence, emphasizing the impact of their support on the feasibility of hosting multiple nights at Wembley.

A return awaited by London fans

She also acknowledged the diversity of her audience, comprising both Londoners and fans who traveled far to attend her show. Taylor Swift’s Wembley concert is part of a UK tour that began in Edinburgh and continued through Liverpool and Cardiff. Fans, known as Swifties, showed their dedication by arriving early to meet and exchange friendship bracelets, creating lasting memories. London also got into the spirit, with tributes to Swift such as playing her hit “Shake It Off” during the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. A special edition subway map was even issued to mark her arrival, renaming subway lines in honor of her albums.
With a capacity of 90,000 people, Wembley Stadium proved to be a prime venue for one of the largest events of Swift’s “Eras” tour, where music and kindness met in harmony.


Photos : Wembley Stadium/Eras Tour/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Brixton to Host London’s Largest Rooftop Bar

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A new chapter in nightlife unfolds in Brixton with the upcoming opening of Freight Brixton, promising an unparalleled culinary and festive experience.

Photos : Freight Brixton/Brixton/DR

Brixton, London’s vibrant district, is set to become the host of the city’s largest rooftop bar. The highly anticipated Freight Brixton is slated to open its doors on July 5th, boasting a capacity of a thousand guests and a summer schedule brimming with variety. Nestled in the heart of Brixton Village Market, this new hotspot is poised to become a staple of the London scene. Visitors can look forward to live performances, DJ sets, themed brunches, football screenings and jazz nights, all curated by renowned DJs, up-and-coming artists, award-winning chefs, and skilled winemakers. Freight Brixton is more than just a rooftop bar experience. It is committed to celebrating the local culinary scene by providing a platform for neighborhood food vendors. Irish chef Robin Gill will kick off the opening with an open barbecue, closely followed by Paul Asher, also known as Rice Paddy, who will delight taste buds with his North Thailand-inspired cuisine. Breddos Tacos will also bring a creative twist to traditional Mexican fare.

Gastronomy is in the spotlight

The festivities don’t end there, as two outdoor cocktail bars, Campari Hotel and House of Friends Tequila Bar, will round out the offerings, alongside South London’s Brixton Brewery serving its locally acclaimed craft beers. Beyond the festive aspect, Freight Brixton aims to be a celebration of community. The team behind this ambitious project warmly invites local initiatives, ranging from dance classes to youth charities, to join in this venture. Freight Brixton is the latest project from Manchester’s Freight Island, known for its outdoor food hall that opened in 2020 in the former Mayfield Depot. With the opening of this new rooftop bar, Brixton is ready to welcome summer with a venue that promises to become the pulsating heart of London’s nightlife.

Photos : Freight Brixton/Brixton/DR

FASHION, NEWS

The Epic of Fashion: The Intimate Collection of Dame Vivienne Westwood

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In a posthumous tribute to a fashion icon, Christie’s presents the personal collection of Dame Vivienne Westwood, a series of emblematic pieces that have marked the last decades of haute couture.

The auction, divided into two parts, will take place on June 25 for the first part live in London and from June 14 to 28 for the online part. The collection, which contains only clothing, shoes, and jewelry from the eponymous couture house of Dame Vivienne Westwood, is recognized as historically and culturally significant. Among the key pieces are iconic looks such as the dress illustrated above, from the Witches collection for Autumn/Winter 1983/84. The sale highlights the designs of Vivienne Westwood, with images of the designer wearing her own pieces. These items, often stars of his fashion shows, reflect a growing interest in fashion heritage, coming directly from private collections.

Photos : Christie’s/Vivienne Westwood/DR

The market has undergone remarkable development, illustrated by the record sale of a Chanel coat from 1996 at 312,000 euros.

Vivienne Westwood : influential, committed, and timeless

Andreas Kronthaler, Westwood’s husband, wants these clothes to be worn in everyday life, not just kept by museums or collectors, so people can feel the same joy he and Westwood share. The proceeds from this sale will be donated to causes supported by Dame Vivienne throughout her life, including The Vivienne Foundation, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and Greenpeace. This initiative is a testament to Dame Vivienne’s constant concern for the environment and human rights. In addition to clothing, the auction will also include “The big Picture” Vivienne’s Playing Cards: Collect the cards. Connect the cards. This deck of cards designed by Dame Vivienne in 2017 is a strategy to preserve our planet and reflects her commitment to environmental and social issues.

https://www.christies.com/en/events/vivienne-westwood/what-is-on

/VideoGallery

Photos : Christie’s/Vivienne Westwood/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

TOOPING THE COLOUR : A Display of Tradition and Valor

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In the heart of London, the age-old tradition of Trooping the Colour adapts to the circumstances of King Charles III, showcasing British force and unity.

Each June, the city dons its finest to commemorate the official birthday of the British sovereign, a custom rooted in history since the reign of George II in the 18th century. This year, the Trooping the Colour, a hallmark event of the British monarchy, holds special significance as King Charles III, born on November 14, honors this tradition amidst personal challenges. Trooping the Colour, or “Salute to the Colours,” is more than a military parade; it’s a showcase of British grandeur and military excellence.

Photos : Tooping the Colour/DR

Over 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians come together for a display of discipline and equestrian splendor. 

Kate Middleton officially present 

This year’s event is underscored by the courage of King Charles, who, despite a recent cancer diagnosis, has chosen to attend the ceremony, swapping the traditional mount for a carriage, alongside Queen Consort Camilla; The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, also demonstrates resilience by participating in the event, her first official appearance since the announcement of her own battle with the illness. The program begins at 10:30 AM, with the King proceeding down The Mall from Buckingham Palace to the Horse Guard Parade, where he will receive a royal salute and witness a 41-gun salute from Green Park. In the afternoon, the King and the royal family will appear on the balcony of the palace for the flypast of the Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force aerobatic team, thus concluding a day of celebration and a demonstration of the indomitable spirit of the United Kingdom.

Photos : Tooping the Colour/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Taste of London Celebrates Two Decades of Culinary Delights

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Amidst the verdant pathways of Regent’s Park, a must-attend event for food enthusiasts is unfolding: Taste of London, celebrating its 20th anniversary.

From June 12th to 16th, this culinary festival will transform the park into an oasis of flavors, where over 120 dishes, from unprecedented creations to revisited classics, await visitors. Notable establishments such as Chai Wu and HotBox London are making a grand return, while Roka of Mayfair will also mark its 20 years with refined Robata dishes. For the first time, Le Petit Beefbar will present its meat specialties alongside Oblix and Kolamba, promising an immersion into the authenticity of Sri Lankan cuisine. Italian cuisine aficionados will be delighted by Circolo Popolare and Norma, which promise a Sicilian taste adventure.

Photos : Taste of London/DR

Bars and Dj set

Pop-up bars like Piper Heidsieck’s champagne bar and Schweppes’ cocktail bar will offer sparkling moments of relaxation. El Jimador’s margaritas and Jack Daniel’s cocktails will add a festive touch, while Birrificio Angelo Poretti and chef Simon Stallard will offer beers and perfectly paired snacks. For those wishing to refine their palate, culinary workshops led by starred chefs and live demonstrations at The Taste Fire Pit are on the agenda. The VIP lounge, meanwhile, promises exclusive experiences, intimate wine tastings, and varied entertainment. Taste of London 2024 is shaping up to be a memorable edition, celebrating the art of dining in all its glory.

Photos : Taste of London/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

“War & Peace”: Blek le Rat and Woodbury House present an artistic reflection on conflict

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Woodbury House is honored to unveil “War & Peace,” a solo exhibition by the trailblazing stencil graffiti artist, Blek le Rat. This collection, featuring over 50 new works including paintings and prints, immerses visitors in the artist’s personal contemplations on war, shaped by his post-World War II upbringing in France.

Often hailed as the “father of stencil graffiti,” Blek channels childhood memories marked by his father’s wartime tales into a body of work that probes the effects of conflict on the human psyche. “War has always been a constant presence in my life, an indelible obsession,” he shares. Named after Leo Tolstoy’s monumental novel, the exhibition delves into the dichotomy of human existence teetering between safety and instability, accord and antagonism. Blek admits to being “both fascinated and repulsed by war,” a sentiment that echoes through his art. Drawing on centuries of conflict, from medieval times to the present day, Blek strives to portray the senseless sacrifice he believes epitomizes the human condition. The prominent series “Stallion of Sacrifice” features a Persian warrior, symbolizing the might and frailty of those who serve in battle.

Photos: Blek le Rat/Woodbury House

“Ask yourself questions and dialogue”

With over four decades of engagement in urban art, Blek le Rat likens his creative journey to a chess match, where each move within the urban tapestry uncovers new challenges and opportunities. This exhibition represents the pinnacle of his deep dive into the unpredictability of war and life, influencing his artistic decisions in terms of scale and format to amplify his message. Joseph Bannan, partner and curator at Woodbury House, highlights Blek’s dedication to “animating each canvas, drawing spectators into a space where history converges with modern awareness.” Blek le Rat hopes that “War & Peace” will initiate a conversation about the individual significance of these notions. “I am curious to know what ‘war and peace’ means to you,” he says, inviting introspection.

The “War & Peace” exhibition provides a unique chance to ponder how art can mirror historical and personal upheaval while shedding light on the quandaries faced by humanity today. Each piece stands as a living testament to history, beckoning visitors on a journey where the past intersects with the present and prompts reflection on one’s personal interpretation of war and peace. “Your perspective on ‘war and peace’ intrigues me,” concludes Blek le Rat.

Photos: Blek le Rat/Woodbury House