bazaar February issue 2020 by bazaar magazine

February 2020 | Issue #247 www.bazaar.town

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About the Cover: We hark for days past, looking at the new from the perspective of the old. But the reality is that our city skyline is quickly evolving into a stunning sight to behold. Our cover is most telling of this story. Captured by the talented photographer @Bin_Ebrahem on Instagram, he tells us more about this photo, “I took this photo from an abandoned building, and I was thinking about how to make something special out of this old window. Then the idea came to mind to turn this normal window into something that will create more depth in the photo, and it will lead the viewer’s eyes to the main point—Kuwait City."

Int Aaaaand…..just like that its February 2020, and we’ve got Valentine’s Day peeking its red superficial head around the corner, followed by the National Day and Liberation Day holiday to look forward to, which of course falls on a Tuesday and Wednesday meaning nobody is sure if Thursday is going to be a work day or a last minute holiday because it ‘falls between two holidays’, a rule/law I’ve never really understood, but hey, why look a gift horse in the mouth, right?

The bazaar team...

We’re calling this issue of bazaar the ultimate Kuwait love-fest. For those of you looking to celebrate that special someone in your life, make some magical memories over at the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa, as they’ve prepared some incredible deals for you to enjoy, and you can read all about them in our Jumeirah Valentine’s Day Special feature. But, there’s no greater love than one’s love for their home-town, and we celebrate Kuwait with a fete of incredible people who are taking this small but mighty nation to new heights. We get up close and personal with music lover and owner of the Musicology Center Dr. Abdullah Khalaf and he tells us all about how he is paving the way for music fans to pursue their passion for the field despite the stigma the music industry is constantly facing in Kuwait. We’re also in conversation with none other than talented local artist Shurooq Amin, and she speaks to us about her latest series and how she is constantly pushing the boundaries to make a space for constructive debate to foster positive change. We’re also super proud of the young Kuwaiti talent representing our country over at the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival and bring you the full scoop to read about in our pages.

Ihab Youssef

Speaking of change, we have a refreshing conversation with the founder of luxury clothing rental platform Naz, Dalal Behbehani, and she tells us all about the challenges and rewards of changing mindsets in Kuwait when it comes to a more sustainable approach to our closets. Don’t miss our experience of the Naz Stylist Studio coming up this month over on our Insta Stories @bazaargram.

Online Producer/Project Manager

Since we’re in such a celebratory mood, we picked some dazzling destinations for you to experience over the long holiday weekend. We started off at the gorgeous modern far East Asian concept Sintoho at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya to dine high in the sky, and we also loved the experience of dining by the city’s most beautiful landmarks when we discovered pasta and pizza concept Magma. In the mood for a more casual Asian dining affair? Check out our review of P.F. Chang’s, and when the hankering for steak strikes, you won’t find a better cut than at Texas Roadhouse. Bonus tip- you can’t miss their amazing location in Bneid El Gar on the Arabian Gulf Street. Did you also hear about Maki’s latest Executive Chef, Daisuke Yoshizaki? He’s bringing new flavors to one of our favorite Japanese joints, and we speak to him to learn all about his latest creations at Maki. Why don’t you elevate your dining experiences in Kuwait by cruising to your destination of choice in style? We can’t pass up the opportunity to mention that we got to cruise around town in Bentley’s one and only Flying Spur that just made its debut. We also have the latest on Maserati and discover the legendary heritage of German car maker Borgward. Staying at home and avoiding all talk of water balloons and water guns? Make a quick pit stop over at our friends at Fantasy World and stock up on classic family games to keep the little ones entertained over the long break. Happy reading, water gunning, and red rose’ing! Ahmed El-Adly

Boss Ahmed El-Adly

Operations Manager

Content Manager Yasmine El Charif

Mixed Media Solutions Jennifer Cádiz

Design Ahmed Al-Ashab

Staff Writer/Online Media Hallah Danbouh Farah Barakat Yasmin Gamal

Umika Pidaparthy

Communications Hala Y. Sharara

Editor

members of:

Alia Al Duaij

Contributing Writers Ayman Nassar George Tarabay Reem Al-Gharabally Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg

w w w. b p aw w. c o m The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).

Contributing Photographers Yousef Al Nasser

Syndicates & Sources Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek

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INDEX FEBRUARY 2020 36

106

130

WORLD OF NAZ

CRUISE WITH MASERATI

MAKI’S LATEST

KUWAIT TALENT AT RAK

A brand new luxury rental clothing app that will keep your style in check and your outfits popping. Choose from big designer items without a commitment. Recently launched, this is Kuwait’s first solution to a more conscious way of consuming fashion without breaking the bank.

Maserati pays tribute to its heritage with the launch of a special series. With only 100 Maserati Quattroporte, Levante and Ghibli Royale units produced with engines ranging from the 275HP 3.0l V6 Diesel, to 350HP and 430 HP 3.0l V6 petrol, this is as exclusive as it comes.

We sat down with executive chef, Daisuke Yoshizaaki to learn more about what makes Maki still one of the best restaurants in Kuwait. Since he is fairly new to Kuwait, he brings with him tons of culture and culinary experience that he would like to share through his food.

Kuwait is being represented by these three amazing talents at the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival this year. Take a look at their artwork and read their stories about how they were selected between many artists. You might be surprised, or even inspired.

DISCOVERING MAGMA

DINE HIGH IN THE SKY

SHUROOQ AMIN

TRUTH OR DARE

Revamped menu, and redesigned spot, Magma is reinventing itself. With fresh flavors stemming from infusion of Italian, American, and Middle Eastern influence, this lovely spot located opposite of Souq Sharq is a must-visit. Have a quick peek at their indoor olive tree by flipping to the article’s page.

Located on the 21st floor in the Four Seasons Hotel, Sintoho is home to exceptional modern Far Eastern cuisine. With killer views, and vibes all around you definitely need to head on over there, or flip the pages to read more about why it has gained such popularity.

Like Russian Dolls, We Nest in Previous Selves invites us to explore the notion of modernity and its varying idiosyncrasies. Shurooq Amin, the artist sheds light on an internal human struggle of good versus evil found in every human with their battle to escape past norms.

Mayyar Aswad believes that happiness is nothing more than a choice. He tells us the story about leaving behind the traditional path of being an engineer, and striding among a more artistic life. Read more about how magic can happen you listen to your heart.

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BENTLEY FLYING SPUR P. 102

AAW

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4 Boutique Alghanim Marine Alghanim Showrooms - Safat Al Rai, Shuweikh, Sharq, Fahaheel beau-tique cosmetics British Embassy US Embassy Brush Salon CAP Gallery Cookie Dough Dar Al Funoon Dar.Nur Gold Class Lounge - Grand Cinemas Al Hamra TONI & GUY- Al Corniche TONI & GUY- Cliffs Kuwait Airport Business Class Lounges Finesse Nail Lounge Media Elephant Pink Moon Boutique Sultan Gallery THE One The Chairman's Club

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what's on February 2020

AMR DIAB IN KUWAIT Date: February 13 Location: Kuwait International Fairgrounds, Mishref Whether you have been a Hadaba fan since the 80s or have only recently discovered Amr Diab, this is your chance to hear and see the Arab superstar live on stage! His music has been a constant in the Middle Eastern music scene for decades, especially with his annual summer album releases and his live concerts are renowned for being fun and exciting events. For registration, tickets and more details, visit eventat.com.

THE SHOW: A TRIBUTE TO ABBA Date: February 15 Location: Al Shaheed Park Amphitheater Gramophone presents THE SHOW: A TRIBUTE TO ABBA, hosted by Al Shaheed Park, exclusively organized by LAPA & Shift Ventures. THE SHOW was produced in Denmark in 2001, with band members from Sweden, and had an impressive 15-year run of worldwide success, with nearly 700 concerts in 40 countries and more than 2 million tickets sold. THE SHOW created renewed success for ABBA’s original music and has taken the position as the best ABBA tribute show in the world according to the Official International ABBA Fan Club. The music in THE SHOW is backed by The National Symphony Orchestra of London and directed by musical director Matthew Freeman, and several of the original ABBA musicians appear as guest performers including the legendary saxophone player Ulf Andersson who toured with the original ABBA and co-wrote some of ABBA's famous hits. For registration, tickets and more details, visit eventat.com. CLASSICAL ARABIC SONGS WITHOUT A MICROPHONE WITH JAHIDA WAHBE Date: February 15 - 16 Location: Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre The “Without a Microphone” series of concerts are always super popular. By forgoing ubiquitous mic from the stage, the audience is exposed to an experience that is more authentic. The performers voices and musical talent is no longer filtered by electronics. This season the JACC Orchestra presents “Without A Microphone” for classical Arabic music lovers with prominent singer Jahida Wahbe, one of the most powerful voices in Arabic, operatic and Muwashahat singing, with whom the audience will enjoy a selection of classics without any sound barriers. For tickets and for more information, visit jacc-kw.com.

COMFEST CON Date: February 27 - 29 Location: Kuwait International Fairgrounds, Mishref Comfest is a pop-culture convention that brings together a community of people passionate about Comic Art, Cosplay, Video Games and Movies. The three-day event is a festival that celebrates pop culture, with notable celebrities, countless artists, gaming tournaments and exciting activities that brings together people of all ages. It is a great opportunity to explore media that you already love and discover new-to-you content that will bring more joy into your life. Grab your friends or go alone, it is fun either way. For registration, tickets and more details, visit eventat.com.

Debenhams

what's trending February 2020

What: @patysparties Info: Creative and completely out of the box piñatas Editor’s Note: Hype up any party, regardless of age

What: @belongspace Info: Cultural entertainment and training center Editor’s Note: Bonds worth creating that stem from a space of belonging

What: @attune.kw Info: An interior design firm based in Kuwait Editor’s Note: Dress up your retail and commercial spaces with modern designs

www.bazaar.town What: @beadit.kw Info: Locally made beaded phone straps Editor’s Note: Wear your phone on you at all times, with style

What: @ahotlife Info: A fitness app that puts exceptional workouts in your hands! Editor’s Note: Your own personal trainer on demand

What: @khaa_design Info: Uniquely designed gifting experience Editor’s Note: Get your new favorite Kuwait National Day pin

What: @kuwaitwalks Info: A simple individual on a mission to capture their walks. Editor’s note: Take a virtual walk through Kuwait today!

What: @daraman.me Info: A sacred space to connect with yourself and others. Editor’s Note: Join Dar Aman on upcoming camping retreats in Kuwait

As much as we work our hardest to give you one rocking print issue after the other, we’re socially active (or try our best to be, we are bazaar humans after all) and we love it! Find us online: It makes our day when we see your tweets/mentions/likes/comments/shares about your favorite features and more.

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bazaar hit list

QUINTESSENTIALLY KUWAITI

The perks and uniqueness of our amazing K-town By bazaar staff

Whether you’re born and raised here, just arrived in K-town and already noticed few of its rich traditions, its dialect, the food, and the unique spots, or generally, the way of life, some things are bound to pop up! For this month’s hit list, we shared what we believe is quintessentially Kuwaiti. Tell us yours!

There's something so uniquely Kuwaiti about strolling down the food markets, listening to the fishmongers announce their catch of the day, the date sellers, and inhaling the aromas wafting out of the different restaurants. I have so many fond memories of bargaining with the salesmen when it's fag3 (Truffle) season, and having long conversations with the Iranian carpet sellers about their incredible pieces. While I've visited other old markets in the region, I'll always have a soft spot for Souq AlMubarakiya.

Name: Yasmin Gamal (Mixed Media Content) Quintessentially Kuwaiti: The phrase ‫الله يرحم والديك‬ which is a prayer for your parents. I heard this most often from older Kuwaitis when I held the door for someone or gave them space to pass and I had originally thought it was a strange way to say thank you, but then realized that they come from a time when family was everything and the generational bonds meant something more. I love how simple it is and that it is a constant reminder that you are only part of a much older story.

Name: Hallah Danbouh (Mixed Media Content) Quintessentially Kuwaiti: Block 13 (١٣ ‫)قطعة‬. The Kuwaiti animated series which aired 20 years ago, all the way back in 2000 was one of many that I couldn't stop watching or referencing during my childhood days. Even though it was a rip off of South Park, Block 13 was more relatable in terms of the jokes, and the general local similarities we all drew from back then. The intro song remains to be an oldie bop!

Name: Yasmine El Charif (Content Manager) Quintessentially Kuwaiti: Souq Al Mubarakiya!

Name: Farah Barakat (Mixed Media Content) Quintessentially Kuwaiti: PUFAAAAK, NOM NOM.

Every time I see Pufak, I think of Kuwait. Not only do I love to indulge in Pufak every now and then, I also learned the best and only correct way to eat it. The only way to eat it is to douse it with hot sauce (daqoos). Bil3afya! Name: Umika Pidaparthy (Online Producer) Quintessentially Kuwaiti: As a relative newcomer to Kuwait (been here almost three years!), I think what's uniquely Kuwaiti to me is the architecture! Whether it is older structures like the nowdemolished Sawaber, the Water Towers, the Kuwaiti National Assembly Building, or newer constructions like Al Shaheed Park or the Central Bank of Kuwait, there is something quite different about the buildings here! The older buildings, honestly, stand out to me more and have the best of local heritage and international designs. We can only hope these structures, monuments, museums and historic sites that define Kuwait, literally and figuratively, continue to be preserved!

Follow @bazaargram on Instagram for our monthly hitlist questions. Image taken by bazaar Studios.

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WHEN THE MELODY LINE CAME TO KUWAIT

Discovering the art of slacklining with Dan Laruelle and Louise Lenoble By Reem Al-Gharabally

Meanwhile in Kuwait Salman Al Kandari, was looking for talent for a new event called Thirteen Zones which has the aim to rekindle life into the Green Island, a Kuwaiti landmark built in 1988. He searched under the hashtag #streetperformer, “I went through hundreds of videos and saw all the usual things. Then I saw Dan’s post and I was really impressed. To be able to play accordion while walking the slackline was entertaining and thrilling,” Salman says. “We heard from a Kuwaiti guy, Salman, who wanted to bring the culture of street performance to his event on Green Island,” says Dan, 25, who grew up in Bristol and studied architecture in Newcastle before moving to Marseille, where he decided to dedicate his time to his passion for highlining and music. Dan and Louise received the invitation only weeks before the event. “We did not know where Kuwait was? We had to look it up on the map,” says Louise, 26 who is originally from Strasbourg and is also a qualified nurse and an athlete for Swiss slackline brand Slacktivity. “The way we are living we need to be flexible. Otherwise we miss nice opportunities,” says Dan. “We don’t try to plan too much. And when we plan stuff our plans change.” “We have missed so many flights we had booked for ourselves this year,” says Louise For ten days Dan and Louise did three shows a day at Green Island with other international street performers who were in Kuwait for the event. Their shows drew enthralled crowds and they were surrounded after each show by delighted people, both young and old, who wanted hugs and selfies. Melody Line are part of a Marseille based collective called Houle Douce, who are a team of musicians, slackline athletes, poets and artists who combine athleticism with performance art on a highline. We talked to Dan and Louise about their time in Kuwait, about what it is that defines a sport and the benefits of slacklining. How long have you been highlining? And what do you love about it? Louise: I have been highlining for three years which is also when I discovered slacklining. Highlining changed my life. It made me happy – it is intense and I am surrounded by inspiring people. I studied medicine for five years, but I 22

[Continued...]

stopped because I found it was not a lifestyle that suited me. Highlining helped me take that decision. It helped me to find myself. Dan: I started to highline in England. I fell in love with the mind state you have to be in, the focus you need. My friends did not have the same drive so we only highlined once a year. So I would create challenges for myself. Slacklining while playing melodica, while juggling. When I finally got comfortable walking on the line without falling I began to bring the melodica and improvise on the line. I discovered that when I was playing music it was a distraction and walking on the line felt easier. It something that happened automatically. I see highlining as an art form, not a sport. When I started it was very much a sport. So, the question is am I an athlete or am I an artist? Bringing music into the mountains was a way to combine my two passions. What was your first impression of Kuwait? Louise: We arrived by night and we could see big flames and I was like what is that? Are they having parties?

What surprised you about Kuwait? Dan: I was shocked that all the kids speak English so well and that the petrol is so cheap. Louise: We have not seen much because most of the time we were on the island. What did you think of Green Island? Dan: I understand why they are doing the event there. It has a lot of potential. Beautiful views on all of the directions. They could really make something special there. What did you think of the audience here? Louise: Audiences here are more reserved, less expressive. But we understood it is a different culture. After the shows we have people approaching us telling us it was incredible. And we see that we touch people in the same way, it is just that the expressivity during the show is sometimes a bit less here. I have a lot of women come up to me and tell me it was super amazing. Many veiled women approach me. It changed my vision of the veil. When we see veiled women in France it is not well seen

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unfortunately. But now I see that behind the veil they are just like me. Young girls with a phone who want to take a selfie and speak with me.

yoga or mediation teacher will take ten years to reach the same state Dan: And it is a very safe sport.

What can slacklining bring for people in Kuwait? Louise: As a sport it can bring a lot of balance, it increases body awareness. And more than just physical, it is a mental game that will help you become stronger. To slackline or highline you have to be in the present moment. You have to keep fighting to stay on the line so your attention has to be focused all the time in the present. We call it the flow state. Once you understand the flow state you can find it in any activity you do. For me slacklining was a tool to help me understand what is the flow state and I think it gives mental strength. Because you learn to do something that seemed impossible at first. The first time you slackline it can seem like magic. But then you train your body as much as your brain. It is the key to open your brain to a new state. Maybe a

What have you learned from slacklining around the world? Dan: We have learned through our travels that slackliners are a little different from other athletes. Many people think highlining is a sport where you need to be in an adrenaline state. But no. If you feel adrenaline you will not be able to stand one second on the line. You need to do the opposite. You need to calm yourself down, you need to focus on your breathing and being in the present and being aware of your body. We have noticed this attracts a particular type of person who is environmentally health conscious and it is similar to meditation. Actually, it is a way of meditation

[...Continued]

Do you see yourself as athletes or artists? Dan: We are taking the athletic side and bringing into it an artistic performance. When we perform

in circus and theatre festivals in France people say they have never seen anything like it in the circus. Louise: For us the slackline has become a stage. We use it to perform. We are on the line, under the line. We play music and we wear costumes. When we perform with our crew Houle Douce we bring huge five-meter-high puppets onto the line. We have a team member who builds them. There are not that many highline performers and there is nobody that does what we do so we became known really fast in the highline world and the circus world.

Follow Dan Laruelle on Instagram @slacklinedan, Louise Lenoble @louise_lenoble, Houle Douce on instagram @houledouce, and Thirteen Zones @thirteenzones.

carriage

up close & personal

MAKING WAVES WITH MUSIC Dr. Abdullah Khalaf on his Musicology Center, book and much more!

Dr. Abdullah holds both an MA and a PhD degree from the UK in Piano Performance. Now 37 years-old, he is currently teaching music at The Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET). Before his journey was set, Abdullah’s younger self was more into scientific subjects, and when he joined Kuwait University to study Microbiology for a year and a half, the tables were turned. “I wanted to do music but I didn’t have the guts to tell my family that I want to switch from Microbiology to Music. It took a year and a half to convince my mom, which happened in the end. Then, I went to the same college where I'm teaching now [PAAET],” he says. The sound of the piano is the one that resonated 26

By bazaar staff

We all have different passions when it comes to music, from our favorite throwbacks, to our classical or film scores that make an unforgettable impact on us. Dr. Abdullah Khalaf’s passion was ignited since childhood, and it happened through the timeless cartoons we’ve all watched, that of Tom & Jerry and Mickey Mouse. When his interest towards the background music of these two cartoons grew even more, Abdullah’s call to follow the sound was actioned.

with Dr. Abdullah the most, but there was also another reason. When he was studying at a public school in Kuwait, the number of musical instruments available was limited. As he says, “There weren’t instruments other than a keyboard, drums, or a piano. So, maybe if there was a violin or any other instrument, I might be taking it. I don’t know. Piano was there, and I already liked it.” The truth is, government schools in Kuwait do not necessarily take the field of music very seriously, if anything, it’s clearly not being invested in rightfully. Dr. Abdullah highlights the several obstacles we have when it comes to educating and learning anything within the field of music, and it all comes down to restrictions and limitations. This is why the

Musicology Center was born, “I wanted to have my own place where I can teach in my own way, my own agenda, my own hope. So, I started the Musicology Center. The first idea was that I wanted to create a place, free for everyone to just come play music and read books about music,” he says. At first, Dr. Abdullah tried to find financial support to fund the project, but ended up taking a big loan from his personal bank account, and put everything he had into the Musicology Center. It’s a place where part of it is free of charge, including lectures, concerts, the research library which is amazingly his collection that he built throughout the years, and there are around 3000 books in there. He says that “90% of

Image courtesy of bazaar studios

it [the library] are about classical music, and the rest are politics, history and classic novels.” The only experience which requires a payment at the Musicology Center are the classes, since those payments are the ones that cover the rent for the space. One step at a time, and one dream after the other, Dr. Abdullah published his first Arabic piano book last year for those who would like to learn the basics of playing the piano. “There are millions of books available but, unfortunately, all of them are in English. I didn’t come across any book in Arabic, and here [in Kuwait] I can’t force everyone to study in English,” he says. The book is basically an Arabic curriculum that is based on western methods. Dr. Abdullah adds that the book is available for anyone, “I believe music should be for everyone not just for musicians. It makes us better people, teaches us how to deal with each other, how to behave better, how to live better, so I wanted it to be for everyone who wants to do it.” The introduction of the book alone says it all, it’s dedicated to a 12-year-old boy who always wanted to study music, and was internally struggling between his passions and the expectations of his surrounding society. A boy who couldn’t find the proper book at the time, and couldn’t read English to learn more about the world of music. Today, he is Dr. Abdullah Khalaf, and now he holds his dream book in his hands while also sharing it with everyone who may have gone through the same experience. Not only that, but Dr. Abdullah is already working on the publication of levels two and three. With so much more to achieve, what Dr. Abdullah is looking forward to the most is to continue to grow the Musicology Center. “The hope is for it to become a real music school, where I can give diplomas and bachelor degrees. But this is a big project that needs real government financial support, which I don’t have at the time. So, I’m just going to keep [doing] what I’m doing now, it’s growing, people are getting to know it, hopefully in the future someone would be happy to finance it and turn it into a real music academy,” he says. Two things he always shares with his students is to read and travel, “Because it will teach them that we don’t exist alone. There is a bigger community outside, we have to learn from them and we have to get exposed to these communities and [Continued...]

those cultures.” No matter how small or big your dreams may be, never stop seeking them, one day you might be holding those dreams in your hands just like Dr. Abdullah Khalaf, who never gave up despite the obstacles in our community, and the hardships he had to go through to achieve what he wanted today.

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL QUESTIONNAIRE What do you most value about your friends? Their honesty, and their presence when I need them. Which living person do you most admire? My mom. What is your idea of perfect happiness? Avoiding the word “perfect”. What is your greatest extravagance? Honesty. What is your most treasured possession? My family. What is your greatest fear? Losing my beloved ones. What is your most marked characteristic? Dedication. Which talent would you most like to have? A beautiful voice. What is one trait you have that you are most grateful for? My passion about the things I love. What is the human trait you most dislike about others? Lying. What is it that you most dislike? Negative people, even though they give me motivation sometimes. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? My dear. What are your favorite words to live by? “Simplicity is the final achievement.” Where would you most like to live? London or Barcelona. If you could have any job, what would it be? Full-time film music composer and performer. What would you consider your greatest achievement? Influencing my students. What do you hope for the future? To beat the present.

For more information on Dr. Abdullah’s projects, follow his Instagram page @a_k83, for the center follow @musicologycenter, and for his music book, check out the page @ak_pianobook. Images courtesy of Sage Alsuwaiel, @sageralsuwaiel on Instagram.

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NUQAT INSIGHTS

A walk-through Nuqat’s strategies in 2019 and their vision for the new decade

By Nuqat staff

For the past ten years, Nuqat has been working towards cultural development in the Middle East. But honestly, what does that really mean? To understand and break down Nuqat’s role as an organization, Nuqat has divided its programs into three pillars. First, and possibly the most known pillar, knowledge exchange. Everything from Nuqat’s Exploration Sessions tour, to the conferences constitute as knowledge exchange, due to the fact that they are platforms for discussion and dialogue, many times bringing a variety of people into the mix. The second pillar is capacity building and while the general understanding of capacity building is that it is the "Process of developing and strengthening [one’s] skills, instincts, abilities, processes and resources... to survive, adapt, and thrive in a fastchanging world” (United Nations), they have a more specific meaning to it. Referring to capacity building as the pillar that concentrates on workshops. In order to understand how to further develop culture, research must be conducted and analyzed, therefore making benchmarking the third pillar of Nuqat. While the three pillars are defined separately, they are implemented interchangeably. The knowledge exchange pillar encourages dialogue and conversation, which often times brings to light various issues that are hindering the growth and development of the community. Also, during those discussions’ individuals begin to suggest solutions that can be implemented to solve issues. Since all discussions are documented, Nuqat was able to identify the prevailing topics that can be addressed. This is where capacity building comes into play. The problem that was addressed, at either a forum or roundtable discussion, ends up becoming a workshop where participants create a proposal or project that aims to solve the discussed issue. For example, a common thought that was repeated throughout the Exploration Sessions pointed out the benefit that design thinking can have on solving various issues within a society. That key point drew them towards curating a workshop for the Nuqat 2019 Regional Conference, conducted by Raffi Tchakerian. In this problem-based workshop, participants designed solutions using design thinking and technology, to foster a strong connection between different groups in one society. One group of participants used design tools and technology, to create an application that sheds light on the issue of harassment. 30

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While benchmarking is not sequential it happens organically as part of the development process. Thus, Nuqat is constantly adapting and updating research to ensure that data is relevant to better understand the developments that are happening in the region. Although the three pillars are essential to achieving Nuqat’s mission of cultural development, the support of the community has been vital. Since non-profits are usually limited in manpower, finances and outreach, that makes collaborations and partnerships an instrumental key to Nuqat’s success and growth. Over the past ten years, they have collaborated with approximately 265

institutions, worked with over 1,400 people and participated in 71 cultural activities and counting. They have expanded their program by inviting various entities and community members to partake in the Nuqat 2019 Regional Conference, as more than participants but as content creators. Knowledge Exchange 2019 was a busy year for Nuqat, they went on tour in Saudi Arabia, held discussions in collaboration with cultural entities and of course conducted a ten-day regional conference that attracted around 4,000 people online and offline. Due to their participatory nature, all these activities constitute

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as a form of knowledge exchange as they are disseminating and addressing important issues regarding the cultural landscape in the Middle east. Even this insight falls under the category of knowledge exchange. In terms of collaborative discussions, Nuqat partnered with Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre (JACC) throughout the 2018-2019 season to curate three talks for their “Monday Talks” segment. The talks occurred bi-monthly under the theme of “The Role of Society in Shaping the Cultural Industry” to show the connection between the cultural industry and its effect on people personally, socially and structurally. During the first “Monday Talk” in December 2018, focus was drawn on the history of theatre in Kuwait and its effect on society; collectively and culturally. The theatre in Kuwait was a place that gathered the community not just to be entertained, but rather to highlight important daily matters. In February 2019, the second “Monday Talk” was curated, shedding light on the connection between media and language. The talk discussed the dynamic relationship between media, in all its forms (from social media to traditional television and radio) and our day-to-day language. The final “Monday Talk” of the season in April 2019 was a farewell conversation between Lucy Topilian, founder of Dar Al Funoon gallery and Fareed Abdal, a Kuwaiti artist, architect and educator. Lucy has been one of the main driving forces behind the visual art scene in Kuwait for the past 25 years. The gallery served as space to introduce the Kuwaiti community to artists from all over the region, as well ignite the art industry in Kuwait. The Exploration Sessions constitute as knowledge exchange as they brought together people from various backgrounds to discuss and come up with solutions that pertain to the creative economy. The last insight highlighted the main similarities and differences between the outcomes of these sessions. After that insight, 36 reports were released that are now available on the Nuqat website. The aim of the reports is to serve as policy briefs or references to academic research on the creative economy in the Middle East. The hope is, community members would use the key points and next steps that came out of the sessions to work with their local municipalities and government officials to solve the specific issues that were highlighted in the report. Since 2009, Nuqat has curated 210 lectures spanning across ten conferences. While most people know Nuqat because of the annual conferences, the last conference State of the Elastic Mind differed from previous conferences for multiple reasons. One aspect was that the conference was regional, where entities from seven different Middle Eastern cities participated in the conference. The concept behind going regional stemmed from various reasons, but

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primarily to develop a network between creatives in the region. While the conference’s theme focused on breaking personal, social and structural barriers, it was as important to break physical barriers, such as borders to achieve an elastic mind. The notion of breaking barriers extended further as Nuqat’s involvement in the community increased. Back in December 2018, with an aim to share and extend Nuqat’s platform; an Open Call was circulated to invite various creatives, artist collectives, innovators and institutions to propose and develop activities that tie into the theme of the conference. Out of 90 applicants, 38 were chosen to be a part of the Nuqat 2019 Regional Conference program. Activities included installations, exhibitions and skill and problem-based workshops.

Capacity Building In the past ten years, 110 workshops were conducted. Ranging from creating type design, to using recycled material to create furniture which were primarily skill-based. This time, problem-based workshops were added to the program. While learning a new skill constitutes as capacity building, the problem-based workshops were meant to solve a larger issue within the community. From social design to citizen journalism, the workshops showed how design thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity can help solve vital issues in a society. For example, one of the workshops focused on transforming Al Mubarakiya Souk, a public space in Kuwait, to create a space that is inclusive and engaging for all.

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It was only 2019 that problem-based workshops were introduced as they were a result of the Exploration Sessions. Many of the participants during the Exploration Sessions suggested that hands on workshops would help solve issues as participants will be able to design a solution and create a proposal that can be presented to stakeholders. Benchmarking The third pillar of Nuqat focuses on developing research to better understand the cultural makeup of the Middle East. So far two different projects have been worked on. One was the Social Print Index which was developed by Nuqat & Strategy, suited to the local and social environment, that can be used to quantify the social benefits associated with various projects and initiatives in Kuwait. The second research project was focused on understanding the Cultural Vibrancy of 12 Middle Eastern cities by identifying two indicators (1) cultural infrastructure and (2) innovation clusters. The aim of this is to understand how a city’s cultural vibrancy can be enhanced in a sustainable manner by building onto the already existing infrastructure. Benchmarking is the most recent pillar of Nuqat, which they deem to be extremely important because development can’t happen without research. Nuqat also believes that in order to develop culture in the region, they must first understand its flaws and issues, how the existing structures work and who is involved. What’s next? One of the biggest shifts will be instead of hosting yearly conferences, they will continue to hold them every two to three years. Therefore, there will be no conference this year, but instead work on various projects with local and regional partners will resume. 2020 spells a new decade for Nuqat, full of change and development.

Stay updated about Nuqat’s latest on Instagram @nuqat and visit www.nuqat.me for more information. For more Nuqat content, please visit bazaar.town/category/nuqat. Images courtesy of Nuqat.

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The Girls of Naz. Left to right; Dalal Al Hajeri, Stylist, Dalal Behbehani, Founder and CEO, and Asma Al Mulla, Content Strategy Manager.

LOW RISK, HIGH FASHION Discovering the wonderful world of luxury clothing rental platform, Naz By bazaar staff

You know that one part of the closet that you never dare approach? It’s filled to the brim with a vast array of structured, Avant Garde blouses, statement Ottoman-style Ramadan dara’as (we’re talking dramatic drapes and billowing sleeve styles, not the cute ones you wear around the house), and that designer bandage dress you just had to have. What do these pieces have in common? The dreaded price tag is still on them, only to remind you of yet another impulse purchase you’ve made. And every day, you live with the guilt of not wearing said items, and more importantly, the social and environmental cost of your fashion consumption, all for the sake of feeling better about yourself for a total of five minutes. What if we told you that there is a better way to score those gram-worthy looks? Enter Naz World, Kuwait’s first solution to a more conscious way of consuming fashion. 36

Dalal Behbehani wears a long jeans jacket by Alexander Wang, which retails for KD 280 but a 4-day rental is KD 25, 8-Day Rental is KD 40 and 4-Week Rental is KD 50

Yes, we’re talking about a form of retail therapy that’s actually good for your soul, wallet, and preserves the creative integrity of designers who agonize for months before they can pin down those runway looks for you to enjoy oh-so-frivolously when they have to slash their prices to meet sales targets. Naz is a fresh digital space, it’s that tab you want to keep open on your browser while you’re working. The luxury designer clothing rental platform arrives as both an online and offline experience to customers in Kuwait and soon in the GCC. Founder and CEO Dalal Behbehani starts us off, “We like to turn Buyer’s Remorse to Borrower’s Delight,” she says, “so why pay KD 1200 for something you won’t wear except only once?” But we love fash-un so much, isn’t that reason enough to score that new outfit to wear to that next restaurant opening we’re invited to? “I strongly believe that there is a profitable customer in the rental business. Sadly, 20 years of fast fashion has built-in an insatiable hunger for new and different outfits. Multiply that by Facebook and raise it to the power of Instagram and we have a digitally native customer base who is unknowingly contributing to the Climate Crisis.” In further conversation with Dalal, we also learn that the fashion industry now employs one out of every seven humans globally, and that the fashion world is now the second largest industrial polluter. Simply put, this industry is impacting our planet and the humans inhabiting it, and “If we continue this linear business of make-consume-dispose then most of the negative impact will be irreversible.” Sure, this might not be new information to some, and we know that some of our readers are already avid advocates of the slow-fashion movement, and purposefully seek out designers who employ more sustainable and ethical practices when it comes to their offerings. But ethical consumption usually comes with hefty price tags, and fashionable options can sometimes be limited. This is where Naz comes into play. Naz is not a solution to all of the woes of the fast-fashion industry, but it surely arrives as a clever and more importantly, mindful approach to consuming couture that you love. Think bold overstated florals by Johanna Ortiz, bespoke gowns by Rasario to the radically beautiful (but mighty expensive) cuts of Alexandre Vauthier, all at appetizing rental periods of four days, eight days, and four-weeks at a fraction of the retail price. Naz’s gorgeous closet is home to a roster of incredible pieces by designers such as Toni Maticevski, Sacai (we can’t get enough of those structured vests!), Perfect Moment, Alessandra Rich, Carolina Herrera, Halpern, and Richard Quinn. “We’ve unbundled access from ownership; and by doing so, we priced the value of access without the price of ownership and will build our operating model based on that. Consumers are more 'woke’ and we are amazed at the positive feedback we have gotten from our members; they appreciate the choice we are providing, and it is our responsibility to curate for them a gorgeous and accessible wardrobe.” Dalal explains, “We believe that we should all invest in our wardrobes. Invest in high quality, long-lasting

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garments.... and for that statement outfit? That ski trip that happens once in a few years? Our annual Ramadan wardrobes? RENT!” With her impressive background in the investment field, Dalal decided to set financial practicality aside, and provide a different kind of incentive for Naz members. “We believe in pursuing an ideology that creates positive impact, and financial success will ultimately follow. We are building a platform that is obsessively customer-centric. We look at the attributes valued by customers and build the experience around it. So, what do shoppers value? Novelty, variety, sustainability and convenience. All of which our operating processes are built around.” When it comes down to it, the key conversation that everyone is having about the luxury fashion industry is the notion of exclusivity versus accessibility. Dalal is well aware of the fact that 70% of luxury customers in Kuwait and the GCC alone are below the age of 28. These digitally native consumers don’t necessarily care about owning a luxury item as much as they care about enjoying it or accessing it. “With Naz, we bring accessibility to the table, as well as giving customers the option to do what’s right.” She says, adding that the most common emotional trigger she sees with Naz members is how they feel smart when they pop by the Naz Stylist studio and walk away with a rental, or ten! Perhaps this is what sets Naz apart the most from other luxury clothing rental platforms. For a flat KD 5 service fee, you also get to harness the super fashionable powers of stylist extraordinaire Dalal Al Hajeri. She goes the extra mile to deliver Naz members a one-stop styling solution to accompany each rental item. Al Hajeri doesn’t just stop at styling the look for your chosen Naz piece, but she also goes above and beyond, with PDFs complete with complementing hairstyles, makeup looks, and various accessory options. “Sometimes, you look at a piece on the rack, and it doesn’t look too exciting. When it’s styled properly, however, that’s a totally different story. Not a lot of people are familiar with the concept of dressing up, or going for a completely different look, but I love to give a Naz member a totally different look based on her character.” With her incredible experience working as a stylist in Bloomingdale’s in LA, Al Hajeri breathes new life into the concept of styling with Naz, making the notion of styling a successful segway into the luxury rental platform. Dalal further adds, “[The Stylist Studio experience allows you to] touch the items, try them on, we even tailor, plan your wardrobe and meet our amazing stylist team who can give you phenomenal tips. The most recurring statement we have heard is ‘I would never buy this piece but I am so glad I tried it with you.’” Expect season agnostic fashion at Naz, as the luxury garments are painstakingly selected by the Naz team to withstand vicious trends inspired by the fast-fashion movement. Dalal Behbehani explains that, despite their vision for timeless pieces, they will carry seasonal capsule collections that may respond to new season trends, but essentially, “You want

This beautiful Rasario gown retails for KD 700. Rent it for 4-days for only KD 70, 8-days for KD 85, and borrow it for a 4-weeks for KD 40.

Rent this stunning Rasario number for 4-days for KD 95, 8-days for KD 114 and 4-weeks at KD 190. With a retail price of KD 950, how could you even say no to this bargain? Go ahead, do it for the gram.

something new for YOU to put on, not fresh out of the factory.” The pricing structure for renting with Naz is also very transparent, simply because Dalal knows that online customers are extremely price savvy, she adds, “Unlike brick and mortar stores, we follow the designers’ suggested pricing strategy with a small percentage.” Perfect for weekend trips to Beirut or Dubai, the flexible rental structure also allows you to plan your wardrobe for the entire season. The ladies of Naz like to lead by example, and in our meeting, they showed us the gorgeous garments they wore and how easy it is to access them. Dalal donned a stunning long jeans jacket by Alexander Wang, which retails for KD 280 but a 4-day rental is KD 25, 8-Day Rental is KD 40 and 4-Week Rental is KD 50, while stylist Dalal Al Hajeri sported a gorgeous Sacai Long Vest which retails for KD 1,200, whereas 4-day rentals cost KD 100, 8-days is KD 130 and 4-weeks is KD 200, and finally Naz content strategy manager Asma Al Mulla wore a bright yellow trench by Koché which retails for KD 400. For renting out this beautiful garment, you can opt for a 4-day rental at KD 40, 8-day rental for KD 55, and 4-week rental is KD 80. Should you develop intense feelings of love for a specific rental piece from Naz, rest assured, you can keep it too for a very reasonable price. We’re also loving Naz’s content strategy, which truly delivers on the meaning of democratizing luxury fashion for everyone to enjoy. Spearheaded by the beautiful mind of Asma Al Mulla (you probably know and love her from her follow-worthy Instagram account @Vintagebaza), she believes that rather than following a mega-influencer strategy to achieve fame, it’s your personal influence in your direct community that instigates change. She explains, “We like to [Continued...]

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work with real women, real girls. At the end of the day, we’re average girls, and I am more likely to be influenced by my friends and family and not by people on social media. It’s not about having a huge platform and a number of followers- it’s about the impact you have on society and in our local communities- these are the girls we want to talk about. These are the #GirlsofNaz. Influencing their direct communities.” The Naz app is launching in just a few short weeks, but you can and absolutely should experience the Naz Stylist Studio. Dalal advises us to “Book your appointment with us on hello@worldofnaz.com or WhatsApp 9760 7552. Pop in our Stylist Studio and we would love to show you our collection. In fact, we can plan your event calendar.” Going on that amazing ski trip in France, or traveling to Switzerland over the National and Liberation Day holidays? Head to Naz for their gorgeous capsule ski collection. Doing some early planning for Ramadan? Don’t worry, as Naz is planning an exceptionally beautiful Kaftan collection that is set to debut in March. Dalal even spills the beans on an upcoming tropical-inspired summer collection and a workwear wardrobe edit—we simply can’t wait! For more information, please visit www.worldofnaz.com, and follow @world.naz on Instagram for amazing style inspo.

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LET’S GO FLY A KITE Celebrate Kuwait with the Al-Farsi Kite Team By bazaar staff

The Mary Poppins song at the very end of the original movie is perhaps one of my all-time favorite melodies. Kites also remind me of the unfortunate Charlie Brown and his constant defeat at kite flying, yet he is forever hopeful. Simple paper and string can evoke whimsy, hope and a challenge waiting to be conquered. Growing up, I would buy a kite whenever we went to the beach and would fly it for as long as the wind would allow me to. They almost always ended up crashing. Like most things, I probably thought I was better at it than I actually was. But it wasn’t until I saw a team of skilled kite whisperers who can maneuver huge show kites that I realized the true inadequacy of my abilities. The Al-Farsi Kite team have been flying kites since 1995, and have travelled the world taking 42

part in shows and festivals representing Kuwait. The team is part of the Voluntary Work Center and they are quite active in the local community by hosting weekly meetups on Fridays during the cooler months for the public. Watching the gigantic show kites in their different colors, characters and shapes is delightful, no matter how old you are. Every February they celebrate Kuwait and organize a festival during the National and Liberation day holidays. This year’s show is going to be their 18th time to host this event, and we are already planning to go. On regular Fridays, there is already so much to do from flying the kites to hitting the food trucks that are usually parked nearby for watching bystanders. During the festival weekend, it is a true fun-fest; there are special corners for children’s games and tents full of activities. You can easily spend the entire day there, and it is the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Photography enthusiasts are

in for a real treat too, regardless of their skill level. Whether you take shots of the vibrant kites in the air or as they take off, the photos are always striking. But you should definitely visit on a non-festival weekend to be able to get nearer to the kites as they are being filled with air and prepped. Every year more people make the trek to Bneidar to take part in the fun. The organizers have estimated that they received five to six thousand attendants, so it might be a good idea to get there early so you can have as much fun as you can. If you are interested in helping out you can become a member of their team through the Voluntary Work Center by visiting kuwaitvolunteers.org. You can find the Al-Farsi Kite Team in Bneidar every Friday until the end of March. The Hala February Festival will be held on February 25 – 29 this year. For timings, location and more information, follow Al-Farsi Kite Team on Instagram @alfarsikite.

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HONEY, I SHRUNK MY LIFE

You are confined only by the walls you build yourself Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg

My friend has a large dog that likes to roam the neighborhood. While he always comes home, his wandering ways are a risk to him and totally anxiety-provoking for his fur mom. He could be hit by a car, run afoul of a skunk, or eat something he shouldn’t. For my friend, if he gets picked up by the local dog catcher (roaming dogs are frowned upon in Canada), she faces fines of hundreds of dollars to rescue him from doggy jail. To prevent all of these catastrophes, my friend installed an “invisible fence” around the perimeter of her property and presented her ‘escape artist’ with the gift of a new collar—one that buzzed then zapped him (gently) whenever he came too close to the property line. The dog’s response to this new development was hilarious. He looked like he was doing some demented dance as he made his way around the property trying to find a way out of the yard. He would come too close to the fence and suddenly leap straight up and backwards, barking furiously at the offending (but hidden) barrier. Eventually he gave up and for several weeks he stayed safely at home. Nonetheless, though, he discovered a gap in the coverage where the wire didn’t quite wrap around a tree on the corner of her property. She came home from work to find him waiting patiently at the end of the driveway on the wrong side of the barrier – he needed her to get back into the yard! We too often act like our lives are bounded by an invisible barrier, and when we feel a ‘zap’ of anxiety or fear or uncertainty, we jump back like we’ve been shocked and we don’t go there again. At its extreme, the ‘zaps’ of anxiety we experience become so constant and so strong that the invisible barrier to our lives becomes hardly bigger than our outstretched arms can reach. We do absolutely nothing which might spark a jolt of fear. Unlike a dog fence, which doesn’t move, the barriers in our lives are malleable. They shrink or expand depending on our response to the ‘zap’ we experience when confronted with something new, difficult, or potentially scary. When we take a deep breath, acknowledge the discomfort and forge ahead, the barrier expands, and we have more options for living. When we gasp, and step back from the challenge, the barrier shrinks, and life becomes ever smaller. Agoraphobia begins with small, incremental steps away from internal discomfort. The barrier shrinks, the zaps happen constantly, and those small steps become a headlong rush to feel safe. 44

The ultimate outcome is self-imposed confinement in a very small life. While this is the extreme manifestation of an anxiety-driven life, there are ways in which we shrink our lives without realizing it. We don’t go somewhere or do something because we experience a ‘zap’ at the thought of the Thing and just like the dog, we move away from the discomfort. The truth is that our lives shrink because the story we tell ourselves about an event produces the feelings which then dictates our behavior. Did you catch that? It’s the story we tell ourselves that causes that metaphorical ‘zap’ not the ‘Thing’ itself. There are others who do that 'Thing' without experiencing the uncomfortable jolt of anxiety… because they are telling themselves a different story. A story that clearly doesn’t include predictions of a bad outcome or visions of an epic fail.

Have you stepped away from something/ someone/somewhere because the dialogue in your head was all about how the 'Thing' was going to go badly? When have you avoided something/someone/somewhere because you experienced a feeling of anxiety or fear but never stopped to examine why? Challenge yourself to move those barriers a little – do that 'Thing' you’re avoiding. Regularly remind yourself: I - and only I - shrink or grow my life. That’s a lot of power.

Dr. Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg is a Canadian psychotherapist with additional certification as a trauma specialist. She is passionate about connecting people with the resources they need to find health and wellness. Follow her on Instagram @drsusannah or on Facebook @WilliamAssociates. Photo by Aaron Bookout on Unsplash.

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ON BEING HUMAN Discovering Mayyar Aswadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistic creations By bazaar staff

His profession is simple, being human. Mayyar Aswad, who is 30 years-old always had a voice deep within his mind that continuously knocked on and on, saying “You won’t be an engineer.” It was true, just one month away from graduating and becoming an electrical engineer, Mayyar left his studies and turned his life upside down. In 2007, back when Mayyar was studying in Syria before the war, an annual art competition was being held, he attended and to his surprise won a scholarship to study sculpting. But, during those days, ‘artist’ was a word used to bad mouth anyone who ventured into that field. “This thing was a blackhole in my life, I always wanted to study art, I knew that I have a lot in my head, but I didn’t get the chance,” says Mayyar. Mayyar is in fact self-taught, and to him it was a long journey. His inspiration stems from his love of nature, his beliefs in his own heart, the trust he has towards his feelings, as well as his spirituality. So many of these references are included in his artworks, and Mayyar usually goes with the flow when a canvas is placed right in front of him. He says, “A lot of times I’ve prepared, saved so many pictures on my profile. Then, suddenly, out of the blue, it turned. I don’t know why. Even with my art, I’ve already prepared a color palette in my mind, once I start on the canvas everything changes. That’s why I stopped preparing for my next piece.” His creative energy is not only poured out into the canvas, but also in his sketches. Mayyar surprisingly adores his sketches more than his paintings, he considers them as his precious art diary. Plus, when he teaches art in his workshops at Artspace, Mayyar emphasizes on how there are no rules in art; Art is freedom. “I teach people in my own way, from my experience. I don’t follow a syllabus or [structure], I just follow my passion, my heart,” he says. The reason behind that is because Mayyar saw that art, out there in the world, is taught in a very tough way. People do not always seek that, or react positively to this method, and he is one of them. “I try to make a twist, how to make them feel it, love it, because it’s a way to express yourself.” He reiterates , “It’s like when you dream, you can’t control your dreams, you have your own la la land in your head, you can do whatever you want. It’s the same

with art, it’s a way to run away, to escape, to build your own reality with art. So there are no rules to follow, art exists to break all the rules.” Not only that, but Mayyar is not a fan of any certain movements in art. Those movements were created by others, and as he says “We have a right to create a new movement. Each [artist] has [their] own movement in art, so you cannot limit art in one movement.” He is truly, limitless. Mayyar’s art, the way he expresses his spirituality, and places his feelings be it on sketches or canvases, as well as the way he perceives the world is entirely different, but certainly and without a doubt, full of creativity. “There is a quote in Arabic I read once ‘‫[ ’من رحم املعاناة يولد االبداع‬From the womb of suffering, creativity is born]. What’s bad for your heart is good for your art, which is totally true, so it’s good. I like challenges a lot.” From the obstacles he already conquered, life is Mayyar’s game, and he is willing to take any challenge that may arrive on his doorstep, knocking and waiting for him to level up once again.

[Continued...]

TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE How would your mother describe you in one word? Chaotic. How would you describe your mother in one word? Life. What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked? Do you know how to paint? What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done? When I love someone, I call him or her stupid. Once, I introduced a student of mine as stupid to a friend! You can imagine her shock. What is your theme song? “You Don’t Own Me” by Grace. What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented? I want to reinvent or even delete the word love, because it is unfair to limit all our feelings and emotions into four letters in English or two letters in Arabic. The Arabic language is among the most complicated, so two letters can never contain love. Where would you like to live? Florence. What is your dream retirement location? Bali. What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind? “And we are closer to you than your jugular vein.” (A quote from the Holy Quran.) Which animal best describes your perfect partner, be it in business, or in life? Monkeys or pugs. Do you miss anything from your childhood and if so, what is it? No. Childhood was just a phase. I am glad I went through all these phases, and I don’t miss any of them. If you could change your name, to what would you change it? I would never change my name. I have the most beautiful name. My name fits me. It means the giver or the host. There is a saying in Arabic that states that our names reflect us. How would you describe your handshake, in one word? I like to hug. What is the toughest part of your character? I am protective when it comes to my friends and those whom I love. Even at work, I like to protect everyone. Who is your favorite historical figure? Prophet Muhammad. He could not read or write, but he found God. He had everything and took nothing in return. What in the world do you least desire? Showing off. What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there were more of it] would make the world a better place? Awakening. People need to see the world in a different perspective. Imagine all of us awakening even though we are different. Wow! It would be really good! Why do you think most people who do, like you? I am just me. I am not a copy of anyone else nor another version. I say the truth always. People like that. Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…” a choice.

Check out more of Mayyar’s artworks on his Instagram page @mayyaraswad.

[...Continued]

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KUWAITI KONTENT

From books, movies to apps, make sure you’re consuming content that’s homegrown! By bazaar staff APPS TONS We’re all for convenience here at bazaar. And grocery shopping is one of those uninteresting tasks that needs to be taken care of but doesn’t spark joy for most of us. Available for iPhone and Android, the app allows you to choose the products you need and the store. Schedule delivery, click and pay and you are done! The app is intuitive and easy to use and you can also save your regular items for easier and faster checkouts next time. JustClean Now that the shopping is taken care of, delegate your laundry to someone else too. Choose your preferred laundry (check out the ratings and reviews if you need suggestions), add the items and select from just ironing or full on washing. Schedule a pick up and drop off time and you are done. This time saving app is also cash saving because of their regular offers and promotions. And with all the reclaimed money and time you can enjoy more of Kuwait. HotLife Going to the gym is so last decade. This decade, the gym comes to you. Enjoy a plethora of workouts from different masters who specialize in different areas of exercise. From strength to endurance, mobility to strength, this subscription based app puts exceptional workouts in your very own hands. Their motto is “ Everything you need to shape your own story is already inside you” because HOT empowers you to discover the fire within you, by making fitness accessible and rewarding for everybody. BOOKS Letter Home - Karen Alanizi This book tells the compelling true story of Karen Alanizi, and her Kuwaiti husband Salem during the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. Based on a letter written to her family in England her story reveals the heart-wrenching emotions, fears and the often amusing and sometimes bizarre side of life during the Iraqi occupation. She describes the desperation of their separation, and the journeys that eventually reunited them in England. As the Gulf War unfolds they fear for their family and friends left behind in Kuwait and wait impatiently for the Liberation of the country that they love so much. When The Haboob Sings by Nejoud Al-Yagout This is local author Nejoud Al-Yagout’s second novel after her debut Motorbikes and Camels. The book has already won the awards and revolves around Dunya Khair, a journalist who authors a controversial article in the newspaper that challenges the status quo. The divisive reaction of her readers causes her life to fall into disarray and pushes her to a near nervous breakdown. Dunya knows she has to act and she does, but has she done the right thing?

Kuwait Transformed: A History of Oil and Urban Life by Farah Al-Nakeeb We are transformed and transform the spaces we live in. Kuwait City was perhaps the first Gulf city to experience oil urbanization. The story of change that started in the mid-twentieth century has now become a familiar narrative. In Kuwait Transformed, Farah AlNakib is the narrator and connects the city's past and present. The changes were not only architectural or structural but have also gone deep into culture and society. The book is not merely nostalgia for the past but a call to arms for the future. FILMS, MUSIC AND PLAYS The Assassination of the Journalist Mishal by Dawood Al-Shuail- Short Film (2017) This story takes place in the 80’s about a Journalist called Mishal Musaed who bravely practices his profession with no filter by writing in a well-known publication in Kuwait. Along the years, he has made some enemies, upon those is Abu Essa, a wellknown merchant. This merchant fell to be the topic of criticism in the works of Mishal. Khaled, Abu Essa’s colleague pays Mishal a visit in his office where a bribery is attempted to shut him up. However, the honorable journalist shuts it down immediately. Instead Mishal’s words to the messenger were “tell your boss to read my next article.” Next, an attempt to bring the writer down once and for all is pursued. The Grass is Always Greener When it isn’t Covered in Chocolate - Short Animated Film (2019) Hala Alhomoud, a visual storyteller who uses her many talents through animation to tell a story about a sheep (Woolly) who makes a stand to change his life. The short film takes us through a turning point in Woolly’s life. Living a life where the owner of the

sheep exchanges their wool by providing them with chocolate covered grass is frustrating in itself. Aggravated with his owner’s selfish ways, Woolly decides to take off and say goodbye to the traditional life of comfort for a sheep. Instead of being a follower, he leads his own path to discovery and the story takes us on his breakthrough expedition. “Different” by Sons of Yusuf - Music The local duo are dropping singles one after the other for their upcoming album Shaykh The World. “Different” is a track that first starts with a catchy beat, and goes on preaching how different our world, society, and community are within the new decade. Tapping into the culture of social media, new technology, as well as humanity both generally and individually. A single worth giving a listen to, because like the duo said “Everything is different”. Fursan Al-Manakh - Kuwaiti play The classical and comedic play originally aired back in 1983, and its story revolves around the crisis of Souk Al-Manakh which struck Kuwait during the late 70s and early 80s. Fursan Al-Manakh was created by the legendary and late actor Abdulhussain Abdulredha, who in fact was affected by the crisis himself like so many others within the community. Documenting history throughout the years, the crisis and stories of Souk Al-Manakh is well observed within the play, which you will surely catch on TV as KTV always reruns it on their channels!

These are all but a small selection of incredible content coming out of Kuwait! Tell us your favorites by shooting us a dm over on our Instagram account @bazaargram.

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FOUNDERS KEEPER

How one of Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storied ad gurus helps companies find their voice By Stephanie Mehta

Jacobi Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe has big ambitions for Iris, his two-year-old audio-technology startup. Iris has developed software that makes sound more immersive-ideal for streaming services and smartphones. But Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe also wants to be in the burgeoning wellness space, plugging his tech into meditation apps and other health products. A decade ago, a well-financed young company such as Iris--investors include Queen drummer Roger Taylor and independent music label Concord--might have tried to serve a narrow set of customers before expanding into new markets and services. But the rapid ascent of startups such as WhatsApp, Instagram (both now owned by Facebook), and payments platform Stripe has emboldened a new generation of founders to position themselves as multichannel, global, and purpose-driven businesses from the outset. To help articulate his sweeping goals to potential funders, customers, and partners, Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe called on FNDR, a consultancy that specializes in what CEO James Vincent calls "giving voice to vision." FNDR "took this huge idea I had in my head . . . and turned it into a story that made sense," Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe says. 52

Launched nearly three years ago by Vincent, who helped lead Apple's creative agency TBWA\Media Arts Lab for more than a decade, Venice, California-based FNDR (pronounced "founder") has quietly become a goto adviser for an elite cadre of entrepreneurs. Clients include Snap's Evan Spiegel, Glossier's Emily Weiss, Farfetch's JosĂŠ Neves, Airtable's Howie Liu, and Daily Harvest's Rachel Drori. While on-demand computing services and new business models like direct-to-consumer selling have made it easier than ever to launch a new company, startups that hope to survive need more than a beloved product or a plan to outmaneuver incumbents. "You have to be much more focused on having your story buttoned up, not just from a marketing standpoint, but from a strategic perspective," says Kirsten Green, founding partner of Forerunner Ventures, which is an investor in Glossier. Vincent and his three partners, Stephen Butler, Rebekah Jefferis, and Nick Barham--veterans of creative agencies such as Chiat/Day, 72andSunny, and Wieden+Kennedy--help startups hone their stories by putting founders through a series of meetings designed to tease out their values and beliefs, challenging leaders to think about the human impact of technology and the social contract between companies and the communities in which they operate. The result is an "intentional narrative" that can guide decisions. "We give [founders] license to take big swings and make transformational changes in their business," says Jefferis.

FNDR's real magic seems to be its ability to distill a company's narrative into just a few words, which provides a concise reference point for everything from branding to acquisitions. "Within three minutes of meeting Stephen [Butler], before he even knew the extent of my dream, he spat out two words that are still the core of everything," says Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe, the audio entrepreneur. "They were: 'Listen well' "--a phrase that sums up both the quality of the technology and its potential health benefits. The Iris homepage now greets visitors with the headline "We enable the world to listen well." A few years ago, Vincent described social media to Snap CEO Spiegel as "lying to strangers, truth to friends." This past July, Snap unveiled its first global ad campaign, highlighting pairs of "real friends." Though the FNDR partners come from the ad world, they and their clients insist that the company is not a creative agency. "I'm not going to FNDR to get a good-looking website or to create a brand identity," Forerunner's Green says. "I'm going to push the team's thinking." It's an approach that Vincent mastered while embedded at Apple, where he met with Steve Jobs weekly for 11 years. "What Steve wanted was a highly provocative two hours," recalls Vincent, who is credited with conceiving the iconic ad campaign featuring dancing, iPod-wearing silhouettes. "And if it wasn't, he'd be like, 'Boring! Try to do better next meeting.' " FNDR may not mint the next Steve Jobs, but if its system works, its clients' stories will always be engaging.

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LIKE RUSSIAN DOLLS, WE NEST IN PREVIOUS SELVES SHUROOQ AMIN CONTINUES TO CHALLENGE LOCAL PERSPECTIVES By bazaar staff

We like to describe our society as a modern one. We embrace the notion of modernity by dressing in the latest fashions, buying the newest smartphones, and following every trendy ‘habba’ to an exhaustive point. We affiliate with the idea of ‘modernity’, yet we still cling to a part of us that’s no longer there. Perhaps it’s your grandmother’s voice telling you that chewing gum isn’t ladylike, or your father telling you that career in the creative field isn’t going to be a fruitful one. You don’t necessarily disagree with these voices, but you do at the same time. Change isn’t a matter of absolutes, and in Shurooq Amin’s latest exhibition titled Like Russian Dolls, We Nest in Previous Selves, we’re invited to explore the notion of modernity and its varying idiosyncrasies.

My Husband Is Not Kuwaiti, 2018 “We nest in previous selves, as we carry within us the DNA of our ancestors, and we will never escape that,” Amin began to tell bazaar, “Like Russian Dolls, we nest in previous selves, is a line from a poem by American poet Diane Ackerman. This line kept recurring, connecting mental dots for me. No matter how civilized we think we are, no matter how far we believe we have evolved, no matter how much progress we think we have achieved…we still “nest in previous selves”. In other words, there is still the DNA of thousands of years of ancestry, the seed of the barbarian within us, there is still evil inside us, if given a chance to rise from the darkness. There is the internal human struggle of good versus evil: we all “nest in previous selves” like Russian Dolls; we all work so hard on ourselves to evolve and move forward psychologically, mentally, emotionally, and physically, and yet, there remains inside us the seed of our ancestors, people we never knew, whose blood runs through our veins, whose identity shapes ours despite how much we fight it, whose history haunts us. Can we change our DNA?”

Amin first conceived the idea for her latest exhibition while traveling abroad, “On an airport bus one day, I noticed a woman standing between her three children. The two boys were dressed in jeans and t-shirts and the young girl and her mother were in plain black Abbayas, tightly raised up to cover half of the chin and sternly lowered to cover half the forehead. I realized in that moment, observing her, that she was my audience. Whenever a journalist had asked in the past: who is your audience, who are you trying to reach and influence? I had always responded everyone.” It was then and there that Amin knew that she needed to speak to this woman, and she needed to bring her to her upcoming show. She just had to figure out how. Fast forward to two years later, and the scene is set at Kuwait’s Contemporary Art Platform. A playful, neon light installation juxtaposes the phrases “It’s a Man’s World” and “It’s a Woman’s World” in electric blue and pink. A stunning display of magnetic canvases and intricate black and white ink drawings

are complemented by intentionally hand-written messages on the walls by the artist, while three mannequins clad in black abayas and niqab are strategically posed across the gallery space, almost mingling with the show’s attendees. Amin wanted to speak to the woman on the bus, and conceptually brought her to her show. In her latest press statement, she states, “It’s my way of speaking to that woman, to communicate different ideas, to advocate for raising her children without discrimination, to question the patriarchy and instill in her a sense of empowerment. To let her know a different point of view; that you CAN maintain your traditions and conservatism, and yet still raise boys that become tolerant forward-thinking men.” While Amin’s artistic vision took two years to materialize, she knew right from the start how it was going to look. The idea of characters sitting on their thrones, as depicted in her canvases, actually appeared to the artist three years ago, and she explains how her process is from “Z-A. I have a vision [Continued...]

for the final show and paintings, but I work backwards. I see the end result, and the entire vision is so clear in my head, but my process evolves organically.” From It’s A Mad World in 2012 to Like Russian Dolls, We Nest in Previous Selves in 2020, we can claim that so much has changed, yet not at the same time. The characters in her latest series are mostly perched on chairs; a metaphor for all the positions of power in every Arab state and what they stand for. A patriarchy in control, but not, and even Amin controls her characters so they listen to what she has to say. Amin’s characters are also unmasked for the very first time, unlike their previous selves circa Society Girls in 2010, “The women wore veils and the men wore white masks to cover their faces indicating the inability to speak the truth and of hiding one’s identity in a ruthless society. But this is the first time that I remove these masks: This time, my characters have evolved, they are willing to speak up for their rights and freedoms and to express themselves, but they still cannot divulge their deep truths.” In turn, Amin’s characters will try to conceal secrets, but they’re there for everyone to see. Amin is no stranger to presenting her audience with nuanced motifs in her work. She comments on her employment of spiders and insects to symbolize the male-female relationship dynamic and the courting rituals of our society. She describes how, “Scorpions will dance around each other before they mate, the black widow spider will find her mate, make her first move, get what she wants, then kill him.” This echoes with a lot of local societal pressure, to get married, to have kids, to have the children, whether you’re male or female, she adds, “A woman without children is seen as an anomaly in our society.” As for the ink-drawings, that perhaps many might perceive as unusual accompaniments to her, large size canvases that most viewers have become used to seeing, the artist brings out her previous self, as the last time she had worked on an ink drawing was when she was 16-years-old. “They reflect the same messages of my bigger paintings but in smaller, black and white concepts.” We were quite drawn to the final piece of the entire series, titled The Last of The True Romantics Chakra Can. It’s the only painting that’s stripped away from symbolism, collage and is quite minimalistic. Amin says that this piece is a true portrayal of where she is in her life right now, “I feel very in tune with the universe and myself, I meditate every day, I feel right with my spirit inside my body. I feel like I’ve unlocked the secret to loving life and feeling young, as free spirit, as an artist, a human being, and a woman.” Upon completing work on the series, Amin is at a crossroads. “I’ve had this vision for two years, and I’ve been experiencing so many changes, and exploring the challenges that life throws my way. [Because] I have a lot going on in my life- it’s a bit of an anti-climax because I’m done and now I can focus on other things in my life, and now I have to confront them.” Like Russian Dolls, We Nest in Previous Selves is both evolutionary yet reflective. Like Amin, her audience has also changed, “My audience now includes much younger, kids, teenagers, and people in 56

Sugar Dad, 2019

The Last of The True Romantics Chakra Can, 2019

their twenties, and thirties. The majority of people who came to my show were from the younger generation, and I received so many messages of support from them. I’m totally thrilled about this, as I am from an older generation, and yet I am completely relating to new generations. Which means my work is becoming more relevant, and it is not antiquated. The vision that I have is relevant. My ideas have always been way ahead of my country and my culture and my people, at least I always thought so. I’m happy to speak to a younger audience to help them pave the way, as at the end of the day, I’m an older role model who is on their side. They’re amazing, brilliant, and they love the fact that there is an older role model who is brave enough to speak about things many might shy away from.”

For more information, please visit Shurooq Amin’s website, www.shurooqamin.com and follow the artist on Instagram @ShurooqAmin. That Way is Right, 2018 [Continued...]

BECAUSE WE ARE ALL ONE

Giving love with Oneness Organization By bazaar staff

Despite the internet trolls in the comment sections, humanity at its core is helpful and hopeful. Given the chance, most of us would prefer to be good over being evil, and will try to lend a hand rather than be mean. Yet, the large majority of the population sticks to small acts of kindness. We spoke to Mariam AlJarallah who founded Oneness Organization so she could harness the collective energy and generosity of the community for a much bigger impact. How do you introduce yourself to people? My name is Mariam AlJarallah, founder of Oneness Organization. Just like everyone else, I've always had a dream that I wanted to work on and accomplish. Through selfless giving, I've found myself the most and the dream that I once had, grew bigger; much bigger! Sometimes an inner voice says, "Your dream is too big", "it's unrealistic", "how can this be possible?", but then a more powerful voice in me uses this as a motivation in working harder and believing in a bigger purpose in life. Mother Teresa once said: “It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving,” and this is how I live my life. This saying keeps reminding me that it's not about ‘how much’, it's about that love put into giving. It's about intentions; once your intentions are set, everything else falls into place. So, who's Mariam? She's just a soul with a purpose in life. Could you please tell us how the idea of starting Oneness Organization came about? Ever since I was a child, I got myself involved in many volunteering activities and [noticed] how it truly affected my life positively, how it made me discover myself more and how it brought out the best version of me. As I grew up, I started doing my own activities and would have my family and friends join me. Surprisingly, more people showed interest and wanted to see how they could join. What is your mission as an organization? I never wanted to market [charity] activities, as this is not done for marketing purposes. Going back to intentions, I've asked myself, "What's your true intention?"; since our mission is to "aspire and inspire to practice selfless acts of giving with the utmost love", then let's INSPIRE THE WORLD TOGETHER. That's when Oneness Organization was

[Continued...]

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officially founded in June 2018. [That was when] we started officially announcing our activities to the public and opening it to any volunteer who would like to become a part of our mission. What does "Oneness" mean and why did you choose this name for your organization? In English, "Oneness" is defined as the state of being unified. Oneness comes from the word 'one'; we are all one. We all come from one soul. In Arabic, "Oneness" (‫ )و ّنس‬means fun. So, I wanted to mix between creating a memorable experience through the feeling of oneness and enjoying every part of the journey. You have hosted several events like plantbased cooking classes and markets to a school building trip in Zanzibar. Why did you decide to have a wide range of activities? That's true, we do have a wide range of activities and every activity or event has its purpose. Since our vision is to live in a world of selfless giving, filled with love, then let’s do this in every way we possibly can. Giving doesn’t necessarily mean by money solely. It can be by giving back with a smile, giving back to yourself (your health, physique, mental state, spirit, or soul), giving back to the community (in Kuwait and outside), and also giving back to the environment. Through Oneness, we work on creating unique experiences, each month with a different purpose that serves the vision of selfless giving. It's important to experience the sense of giving in every shape or form, and see how an individual feels while enjoying this experience. To me, this has only brought more love, happiness and joy into my life and I hope to do the same for the world around me. What has the response been so far? Do people respond better to some campaigns than others? Honestly, the response has been phenomenal. I am extremely happy and truly grateful for the response of people and because of each individual, we're able to grow day by day and turn that 'Oneness' dream into reality. Of course, people respond to campaigns and activities differently depending on what connects more to them and what's closer to their hearts. We try our best to cater to what each volunteer would like to take part of and what the world truly needs. What has been the most challenging thing on this journey? What has been the most surprising thing? As they say, what's life without challenges? I am grateful for all the challenges and hardships because they have gotten us to where we are today. 60

[...Continued]

CMY

I'd like to share a memorable moment [which] was one of the most challenging yet most surprising. I remember on our first voluntary trip to Zanzibar, I had a group of 15 volunteers working outside in a construction field [while the] temperature was over 40 degrees with no AC and no fan. The place we were staying at was powered by batteries, meaning that the water and electricity can go off at any time. Once we got back to our accommodation to freshen up, the power turned off, so we had no water or electricity for a while. Living in such situations and actually going through other people’s day-to-day challenges, made us appreciate everything we have. The way every volunteer responded to this situation was just beautiful. Everyone was calm, understanding and most importantly, grateful. The challenges we've went and going through are countless, but we try to always remind ourselves "what's the intention?" and with that intention work it through.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own non-profit or charity work? Believe in yourself, your mission and the good in people. Believe that if your intentions are set in the 'right' place, everything else will magically fall into place. It's a challenging journey, but a beautiful one. What advice would you give people to become more involved in work that benefits their community and the world in general? I would highly recommend for every individual to get themselves involved in any volunteer work that resonates with them. Volunteering has helped me discover myself and has always brought out the best version of me. If we live in a world where everyone is living the best version of themselves, we will become ONE. Follow Oneness Org on Instagram @Oneness_ Org to find out how you can contribute or join their activities.

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Left to right: Ahmad Alhussaini, Tara Sillery and Shoug Bahzad.

KUWAIT SHINES AT RAK Meeting the talent representing Kuwait at the 2020 Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival By bazaar staff

The Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Fine Arts Festival was established in March 2013 through an initiative of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research. Since contribution to cultural development is an integral part of the Al Qasimi Foundation’s mission for Ras Al Khaimah, the Fine Arts Festival is part of this effort. The festival is a non-profit initiative designed to showcase talented local and international artists, photographers, and filmmakers. It brings together people from all over the UAE, GCC and around the world to present their different works of art in Ras Al Khaimah. This year will be the 8th edition, where the theme will be celebrating Connected Communities. The Festival will include large-scale visual arts and a sculpture exhibition in Al Jazeera Al Hamra Old Town, outdoor film screenings, community art workshops, and school education programs. Selecting the artists is a very delicate and extensive process. First, potential candidates submit their applications online. The panel then review and shortlist the final artists whose work will be displayed at the festival. A person worthy of recognition, who has been working closely on this project is Tara Sillery of PR Passion. Tara told bazaar about the process and her role in it. “I am blessed to have a close working relationship with the team and Director of RAK Fine Arts, namely Suqrat Bin Bisher. He [has been] pivotal in ensuring that my Kuwaiti selected artists receive recognition. I cannot stress enough that there is no favoritism in my

nominations and frankly it's very difficult, as here in Kuwait we have so many unrecognized talented artists.” We must say that we agree with Tara, Kuwait is full of underrated, hidden yet massively impressive talents. It takes an occasion such as this to truly help our artists display their capabilities in a deserving way. This year, Tara has helped nominate three extremely gifted individuals from Kuwait who will be at the RAK Fine Arts Festival. When asked about how she came across these three talents, Tara told us about her appreciation for art which lead her to them. During an exhibition early last year, Tara came across her first artist, called Sara Soud. This was the level of talent she had been searching for! Through going to various exhibitions after that, and searching on Instagram, Tara met Ahmad Alhussaini who is a spectacular sculpturer. Through Tara's extensive search in finding applicable candidates, she also selected Shoug Bahzad. These three were chosen amongst many others.

The festival offers an amazing platform for artists to show their various talents. It helps them discuss ideas, grow within themselves and their work. It also opens many doors for them since they will be able to build connections with other artists and guests attending from all over the world. Jazeera Airways have sponsored the flights for these three artists who will be flying out to Ras Al Khaimah in representation of Kuwait’s talent. Tara said she is grateful to this Kuwaiti owned airline, and their CEO Rohit Ramachandran for being so supportive in ensuring that these artists and Kuwaiti talent get the recognition they deserve. "Jazeera Airways have been pivotal in ensuring the sculpture got to the venue safely," Tara can’t wait for their future collaborations in 2020. The selection process for 2021 will commence in April of this year. Any artists interested in being a part of this valuable opportunity, should get their work out there as much as possible to get the recognition they deserve.

Artwork by Sara Soud

Tara also disclosed to bazaar that she keeps a regular eye on exhibitions in search of the gifted, and that artists interested in participating should contact her directly via her social media platform @tarasillery. We were fortunate enough to learn more about these rare talents who will be representing Kuwait at the RAK Fine Arts Festival. What is your background? Sara: I did not study art academically, but I started this when I was young and focused on it more two years ago. I took courses with artists in Kuwait and outside and continued to train to better my skills. [This happened] with continuous training and educating myself in art books and art history. Ahmad: [I’m actually an] art teacher. Shoug: I’m a director at the Ministry of Information and I give portrait [and] oil painting classes at my studio. My whole life is about art. What kind of art do you make? on what kind of canvas?

Sara: Acrylic painting, oil painting, coffee art, watercolor and pencil on all kinds of canvases. Ahmad: Sculpting and dark surrealism art. [The] canvas sizes of my paintings vary from 60 by 90 cm and they reach to 1.5 by 1.2 meters. Shoug: I make portraits and the medium that I use is oil colors on cotton canvases. How did you stumble across your love for art? Sara: I’ve always loved art from a young age. My journey began with difficulties, but I continued on to the path of success. Ahmad: It’s a funny story. When I was young, my father used to make me [go to bed] early and I used to get mad because I don't like sleeping early, so I would turn the lights on in my room every night and draw until I fell asleep. Shoug: It was by accident, I didn’t know that I knew how to draw. I was sitting in my media directing class and I was bored, so I started to sketch and the sound of the pen scratching the paper made my classmate

notice the flower I was sketching. He then asked me to draw him. I told him I’d never drawn a person. He told me to try. So, I sat in the classroom and sketched him live. It wasn’t perfect but it looked like him. He asked our classmates, and [they all agreed it looked like him]. I felt happy and I told him I’m going to take a portrait course and I’m going to draw you. I took the course and I was shocked that everybody told me that I’m talented. From that day [I discovered my gift], up until now, I still haven’t drawn him yet. How would you describe your style of art? Sara: My paintings are divided between realism and impressionism. Ahmad: [I would say that it is] new to Middle-Eastern culture because dark surrealism is different [with] our people. Shoug: Classic art, I love realism. So, when I start drawing I wanted my paintings to look real and I love the classic style and I’m using it in my paintings. So, my art is realistic classic.

[Continued...]

How long have you been pursuing this professionally? Sara: I’ve been focused on [this path] for the past two years. Ahmad: Four years. Shoug: From April, 2019 when I started to give art courses. What do you hope to achieve in this field? Sara: I hope to become a well-recognized, high quality Kuwaiti, Arab and international artist. Ahmad: Spread my art all over the world, make art more joyful and looked at differently in our culture. Shoug: I hope to give huge lectures about art and portrait, and I hope to have my own art school one day. How does it feel to be selected to participate in RAK? What does this mean to you? Sara: It means a lot to me because this is my first participation outside of Kuwait. I am proud to be in RAK2020. Ahmad: The participation in RAK would be a new experience to me in this field. I am looking forward to see the different styles of art and making connections with artists from around the world. It is always an honor to be a representation of Kuwaiti talent. Shoug: It is a new experiment for me and I’m glad to be one of the selected artists. What will you be showcasing in the festival? Sara: It is an oil painting about "The old man- Memories don't go away, People do.” Ahmad: Wood sculpting sized 110 by 30, titled “Embracement". Shoug: My portrait painting of a sad young girl. To show how she is trying to be strong while she is keeping her pain inside of her. Who are your biggest influences? Sara: Giovanni Segantini, an Italian painter and Édouard Manet, a French modernist painter. Ahmad: The world known Kuwaiti artist, sculpture, and painter Sami Mohamad, his work made me fall in love with sculpting. Shoug: My friend, who is also an artist. His name is Abdalrahman Alhmili. Can you tell us about some current art world trends? Sara: The art world is large and everyone has a different artistic taste and a different artistic message, so there is no single trend, there are many of them. Some of them support classic art and some of them support modern art. Ahmad: Contemporary, digital and line art. Abstract in painting and sculpting and classic art. Final words or advice to artists in the region? Sara: Be you and do what you love. Do not change your style so that people will like it, because if your art is not from the heart, no one will arrive. Ahmad: Never let anything stop you from doing what you love and never quit. With patience, hard work and dedication eventually you will reach your dreams one day. For more information, follow the official account of the RAK Fine Arts Festival @rakfinearts. Candidates interested in learning more about or applying to the RAK Fine Arts Festival can do so on the website rakfinearts.ae. Photos by Tareq Alaskar @Urbanq8Films at CEE Kuwait @ceekuwait.

[...Continued]

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THE ACE OF ALL QUESTIONS

A real approach to minding your own business By George Tarabay

I am happily married. My wife as well (or so I’d like to I believe). When we first met, we were so excited to discover one another. Until this day, I am still fascinated by all the things that make her this unique person who never bores me. As every dating couple does, we always talked about silly things and deep stuff (what’s the difference between things and stuff you ask? Nothing, It just sounded better in my head). One of those things was our future family plans. We had said initially we wanted two kids, a boy and a girl, not necessarily in that order. But as the relationship progressed, we both leaned in to one child. Two years into the relationship, my girlfriendnow wife made the less-than-stellar decision to marry me. While I can sit here and prove to you why she could have done so much better in her choice of partner, this won’t be about that. I fear that if I divulge too much, it will one day be the backbone for her divorce case. She’s a great human, I am not. We’re in love, don’t worry. Our commitment to one another is not rooted in that court paper that we both signed. That paper is merely a detail in our life. Our partnership goes way beyond a governmental paper with a 1 KWD stamp on it. I digress. As a committed couple, and as our plans expanded for ourselves and our unit, we discovered that a child is the last thing we both want or need. So, our magic number for the humans we want to carry our DNA code became ZERO. And before you roll your eyes…mum… or anyone reading this, know this is not an article about family planning or population control etc… This is about some of you…the nosey ones! When people ask us if we have children, both my wife and I would say: No. When they ask us if we are putting it off for later, both my wife and I would say: No When they ask us if we don’t want children at all, both my wife and I would say: NO! Now, no matter where you stand or whatever your opinion is about this topic, it is never okay to follow up with the question, why? That what gets my heart rate up, my palms sweaty … not out of my crippling anxiety, but from anger on how ignorant and insensitive people are. My wife and I are both capable of birth, yet it is our own choice not to utilize that privilege that God gifted us with. But I can only imagine how it feels like for couples who are 66

unable to conceive naturally. Couples who spend tons of effort, mental strength and financial assets to try and achieve it and face loads of hiccups on the road. With all that they go through, believe me, they don’t need your stupid face asking them questions like: Why don’t you want children? Sometimes, the last resort for these couples, is to say that they do not want children because they do not want to explain to your idiotic face that they are facing issues. Simply because, it’s none of your business. The cherry on top in all of this, is when sometimes someone throws me a curve ball and asks me that one question that I was not expecting, “Then, why did you get married?” This question has crippled me with anger before. How do you explain to a human with more than two firing neurons that marriage isn’t just about having kids? It’s the partnership, it’s both of you bringing your strengths to the partnership so you can equalize your individual weaknesses. How am I supposed to look at Joe’s stupid face and answer him calmly without submitting to my anger?

But lately, I’ve found the perfect answer. And please, be my guest and use it whenever someone asks you a stupid question that is way out of line. Ready? Here it goes. Good ole Joe: “So why did you marry your wife?” Me: ”Well you see Joe, I have psychopathic tendencies with a dash of sociopathy. I am easily triggered. If people snoop in to my personal life or ask me stupid questions, I get angry and fixate on them and plan their destruction. But my wife, she is incredible. She walks me through the emotions and gets me to my safe harbor. Without her, I would be in prison for life without parole.” After two or three people heard that answer, word got around. I have now been living for 13 months stupid-questions free.

George Tarabay is a marketing expert Filmmaker/ Comedian/Podcaster. Follow him on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, SoundCloud @GeorgeTarabay. Photo by Adam Griffith on Unsplash.

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CASHIER-LESS STORES

The startup behind it just raised $30 million By Brittany Meiling

A technology startup in San Diego has just raised $30 million from investors to continue building out its software for cashier-less, "grab-and-go" stores. The model, popularized by Amazon Go, allows shoppers to simply walk into a store, grab items from the shelves, and walk out with the receipt sent directly to their mobile device. The startup, Accel Robotics, is developing computer vision software along with cameras, sensors and store equipment to make this concept work. In fact, the startup can build out an entire modular store for its customers, pre-loaded with the computer brains to enable a "checkout-free" experience. The new money came in a round led by Japanese funding giant SoftBank, with further participation from New Ground Ventures, Toyo Kanetsu Corporate Venture Investment Partnership and RevTech Ventures. Co-founder and CEO Brandon Maseda said Accel Robotics already has its technology deployed in 68

North America and Japan, including at restaurants and drug store chains. However, Maseda was slim on specifics, saying he couldn't reveal who his customers were just yet. Broadly, the company plans to create stores from scratch and partner with existing retailers to help bring small-format stores to locations that couldn't accommodate larger buildings. Think university campuses, corporate offices and office parks, military bases, airports and other travel hubs. "The idea is to deliver small, modular stores closer to where people live and work," Maseda said. Accel Robotics was founded in 2015 and was incubated early on by San Diego's tech accelerator EvoNexus, along with a Texas-based incubator RevTech Ventures. This new capital is in addition to $7 million previously raised, bringing its total capital to $37 million. The startup was founded by Maseda, along with Marius Buibas, Brain Corp.'s former director of engineering; and Martin Cseh, a Harvard University graduate. Just a couple of years ago, the three founders were working out of a tiny glass office in EvoNexus with only two employees. Today, they have an office in San Diego's Kearny Mesa neighborhood, where they employ 40 people. The startup also has

offices in Argentina and Tokyo, employing a total of 60 people. Maseda said he imagines he might hire an additional 30 people over the next 12 months, spanning a variety of positions, including software engineers, hardware engineers, project managers and data scientists. Although Maseda wouldn't disclose specific figures, he did note they were bringing in revenue from paying clients running pilots. Accel has a lot of competition in the world of graband-go retail tech. Technology titan Amazon recently announced big ambitions for the cashier-less store model, with plans to expand to larger formats and license the technology out to other retailers. Plus, Amazon is joined by a slew of technology startups looking to create cashier-less checkout systems, including Trigo, Grabango and Standard Cognition. How will Accel compete with the stiff competition? Maseda said they've kept their heads down, focusing on building a product instead of getting caught up in the media hype around cashier-less stores. "To be frank, we've been focusing on building the world's most convenient cashier-less store. If we get that right, then the rest will take care of itself," Maseda said.

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DR. FATEN AL-MAILAM Purposeful wellness at Hadi Clinic By bazaar staff

Dr Faten Al-Mailam in her office at Hadi Clinic

Hadi Clinic is one of the oldest private hospitals in Kuwait and has always spearheaded innovative health services, but with Dr. Faten Al-Mailam at the helm, she has been steering the medical team towards all that is cutting edge in medical technology and philosophy. Dr. Faten’s newly redesigned office at Hadi Clinic was not what we were expecting. Despite being the hospital's CEO, her space is personal, warm and welcoming. Instead of displays of power or status, Al-Mailam proudly hangs her personal art on the walls. She pointed to one and explained that it was Fahad Senior, her father and Fahad Junior, her son. There are two bean bags, a yoga mat with meditation cushions and a small conference table in her office. The floor to ceiling glass windows allow the room to be bathed in the warm glow of sunlight and help nourish her plants that give the entire room a more nature-filled feel. She invited us to try the warm organic lemongrass tea freshly picked from her indoor garden. With wellness at the core of her ethos at Hadi Hospital, the doctor likes to lead by example and told us “How can I expect others to do the things I recommend to them, if I am not doing them myself.” Her journey has been long and winding but in hindsight, it seems as if she were purposefully heading to where she is today. While she was living in the US she completed her PhD in Hospital Management. When she returned to Kuwait, she found that her underlying understanding of medicine coupled with her knowledge of new business science helped her speak the two languages needed to run a hospital. 70

Lemongrass Room at Essential Wellness, 4th Floor, Hadi Clinic

When we mentioned that some of us find it difficult to accept that medical care is a business, she was quick to explain “Business is not about money, it is about efficiencies.” Al-Mailam believes that her role is to help Hadi Clinic become as efficient as possible with all of the available resources, so they can provide the best service for their patients. This includes everything from time, consumables, human capital and even skills and knowledge. Dr. Faten is soft-spoken, and her calming presence is a testament to her commitment to her beliefs. 15 years ago, a chance encounter with a Harvard professor introduced her to Integrative Medicine, which combines complementary and alternative medicine practices with conventional medicine. Intrigued, she asked him for more evidence-based studies and once she was convinced, she organized a trip for her consultants and specialists at the clinic so they could learn more about the new practice. After meeting Dr. Herbet Benson the founder of the Mind/Body Medical Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and reviewing the research and scientific evidence that supported it, she and a team from Hadi Clinic were trained by Harvard professors to become practitioners of Integrative Medicine. She has been slowly but surely making the necessary implementations to transform Hadi Clinic into the forerunner of Integrative Medicine in Kuwait. But first, she started with internal changes to help the staff lead healthier, more fulfilled, lives. Dr. Faten understands that her staff are the real source of Hadi Clinic’s ability to change the medical scene in Kuwait, and by investing in them and their wellness she can lead them into a new era. The staff now have access to an on-location gym and three book clubs. She has been encouraging them to meditate on their purpose for the day before they start, so they are grounded in the present and can focus on the now instead of being distracted. She also meets with the staff once a week on Soul Sundays where she gives mini lectures and talks that range in topics. One of her staff members who was present at our interview added how these little things have already changed her life. Creating these safe spaces and bubbles of time within their busy days to slow down and live with positive intent has helped propel many employees to a better work-life balance, and an improved state of mental and physical health. Her biggest and most ambitious project so far is the Essential Wellness floor in the clinic. The suites are more than just specially designed hospital rooms, as the floor offers patients a comprehensive service of different therapies to improve their recovery process. As Al-Mailam puts it “Physicians often treat the symptoms only, we want to target the core cause of an issue and deal with that.” Essential Wellness is a space where physicians and health experts can make use of the latest in

Hadi Clinic doctors enjoying the on-site gym

Dr. Herbet Benson with Dr. Faten Al-Mailam medical technology and alternative therapies to create a fully customized healing experience for each individual patient. This isn’t about the trending wellness industry; it is about the robust science that will prove the efficacy of these therapies. Her team is already collecting the data that will help her measure and calculate how much better it is for her patients to be aided with yoga, meditation, breathing techniques as well as conventional Western medicine. The floor is the first step towards what she hopes to be the full transformation at Hadi Clinic. Dr. Faten truly believes that we should actively seek to live healthy lives before we are forced to do so because of external or catastrophic forces. “People

The Essential Wellness, 4th Floor, Hadi Clinic are willing to spend money on a designer bag, but not on wellness” she said as she highlights the cognitive dissonance that proves how unimportant we believe our health to be until it becomes a problem. Her convictions are strong, her steps are intelligent and calculated, and we can’t wait to see how she will transform our collective health, one patient and one intention at a time.

Hadi Clinic is located in Block 8, Jabriya on Road 30. For more information follow them on Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Facebook @hadiclinickw.

THE RE-TRIP

Ten years since Thailand By Ayman Nassar

Vacationing is hard, but comparative vacations to ones taken during years of folly, and their latter mature years in the same location are quite insightful, as they provide a window into our growth. Also, my wife and I have an agreement; fridge magnets must be in the shape of the countries we visit (Turkey is our White Whale) together. So last year (sounds so far away and it’s only February), we decided to take a quick trip to Thailand. I had previously been to the lovely location exactly a decade ago, so it served a triple purpose; quick new location for the wife and child, recognizable place for myself and the chance to add to our fridge magnet collection. Upon setting foot in Thailand, I was first struck by the biggest change – time. Ten years ago, we landed at 8PM, having taken a transit flight through Abu Dhabi. With child? Direct please! And it began to dawn on me, what else was bound to change? The presence of technology is a definite plus; whereas the first time around I remember being flabbergasted at stopping a taxi and finding no one in the driver’s seat (they ride on the right side and I did not know that, so it was quite comical) this time all I needed was an app and a credit card to get around. Bonus points; on our very first outing, I forgot my son’s bag in the taxi. Few clicks later, said bag was safely handed to my hotel. So life lesson; embrace technology! We landed in Bangkok for a day, and that city is synonymous with MBK – Thailand’s answer to The Avenues; a one-stop location to shop-till-you-drop, bargain till you lose the ability to discern numbers, feast on a variety of delectable palates and even stop in for a massage at one of many places. Low on cash? Exchange or withdraw, your choice. Your wallet will leave lighter, and your luggage much heavier. As a married man however, I found myself spending less time shopping and more time keeping my son occupied so he doesn’t throw an I-am-bored tantrum. Our next stop was the picturesque Phuket. We broke our five-day stay there into two hotels; a “honeymoon cover” in Karon and a sightseeing one in Patong. It is here that I realized the value of the Baht – it is quite strong! Compared to other Asian countries, the Dinar reigns super supreme. In Thailand however, at BHT 96 to the KD, the purchasing power parity is quite close – fast-food meals cost almost the exact same. So imagine my surprise at paying KD 3 for every ten minute taxi ride that literally lasts for 3KM. in my

folly years, I would have said, I can run that distance. With a baby stroller? Take my money, please (sad face). Building on the last financial point; a quick trip down Facebook memory lane showed me the copious amount of outings I had indulged in; from Island hopping to rafting, to elephant massage and bungee jumping. This time around however, we island hopped as a small family, my water-loving son decided he hates swimming in colorful fish infested corals, and I ended up consoling him on the boat whilst my wife dipped her toes into snorkeling for the first time. The parent trap resulted in an enjoyable time on the boat, and a more miser-y look at prices, as opposed to the YOLO approach of a decade ago. Moral of the paragraph, spend responsibly! Patong specifically is notoriously known for a different type of tourism; as a bachelor visiting, it was quite appalling to be playfully, albeit physically, pulled towards certain places of ill repute. As an adult, traveling with child, it was insightful to see the same people (not literally but you get the picture) stop me to playfully shake hands with my son. I felt

almost invisible this time around. I went from being the center of faux attention, to being the chauffeur of the main attraction! Suffice to say, the overall trip was enjoyable and eye-opening; traveling with a child is wonderful… everyone should do it… you go from annoyed to indifferent on the plane when a child is crying, silently thanking God it’s not yours!

Like the Rubik’s Cube, Ayman Nassar is multicolored in his interests, from running to organizing races, stand- up comedy and internal audit, plus a little writing on the side. You can find him on Instagram @lordaymz.

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SAIYARTI Kuwait’s first fully automated car insurance platform for buying and renewing the Motor Third Party Insurance Policy By bazaar staff

Renewing a car license should be a simple affair, but it’s often frustrating and a waste of time, especially if the car is older than three years. When you purchase a new car, it comes with a three-year motor third party insurance. Once the three years are up however, the car can only be insured for a period of one year. Car owners have to visit the insurance company at least once a year to get their policies issued or renewed. The average turnaround-time can be anywhere between four to five business days. Then the customer needs to take the vehicle physically to the traffic department for an in-person inspection for the new registration booklet. It is a cumbersome and time-consuming process that needs to be repeated again the next year. Saiyarti is the silver bullet solution to this problem. The app is a brainchild of ‘Insure & Secure’, a group that has been operating in the field of Insurance for over three decades, covering all aspects of the insurance industry including both Life and General policies. It operates independently as a professional Insurance advisory firm. The one-of-a-kind mobile app and web portal makes the process of buying and renewing mandatory Motor Third-Party Liability Insurance so much more convenient! Saiyarti is focused on providing an automated platform to all car-owners across Kuwait where they can buy and renew their cars’ Motor ThirdParty Liability Policy in the blink of an eye. The user just needs to download the Saiyarti app, upload the vehicle information and proceed to purchase the policy directly from Saiyarti. In addition to individual car owners, Saiyarti will extend its service to corporate clients through the web portal. The Saiyarti web portal allows for corporate clients to buy and renew all their motor policies in one-go, so that the repetitive task of renewing one policy at a time is avoided and valuable employee working hours are saved. The Saiyarti web portal for corporate clients provides instant access to quotes, service requests, account statements, renewal alerts, invoices, policy copies, and other such associated transactions. You can relax at home while the policy is being verified by the Saiyarti team and delivered to your doorstep within the next two or three business days. You are going to love it so much that you will be recommending it to your friends right away. If you do, make sure you make use of the referral program and get rewarded 74

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in credits for purchases. Referred friends can then refer Saiyarti onwards to their friends, and the user will still earn reward credits from their purchases. The beauty of this program is that the more the user refers and the more their friends refer, the more each one of them earns in reward credits. The chain goes on, and the user can earn credits for all purchases. These credits can be redeemed for the next Insurance purchase or for real cash. All credits are captured on the smartly designed Saiyarti dashboard for easy tracking.

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H&M STUDIO S/S20

Embrace the freedom of style mantra

By bazaar staff

This season, H&M is giving us a style mantra to meditate on. Curious, colourful, courageous: H&M Studio’s S/S20 collection is made for a modern and free spirit whose style is as eclectic as her travels, explorations, and discoveries. It was a research trip that sparked the design aesthetic for the collection. Inspired by the lunar landscape and laid-back surf culture of the Swedish island of Gotland, a carefree vibe and electric color palette of muted and bright contrasts dominates the collection. It’s 2020, and we’re totally feeling the entire ‘everything-goes’ vibe, from our politics to our wardrobes. It’s that dishevelled, yet 76

put together look that just looks seamless yet so well thought-out. It’s effortless, and you’ll find the perfect elements for your new season outfits in the H&M S/S20 collection. You can pair your chunky knits with sporty swimsuits, voluminous wear-anywhere dresses with platforms, and rawedged tailoring with futuristic Lurex layers. That's the beauty of the entire collection, it seamlessly works together. “The collection muse is a forward-looking free spirit – someone who surfs, climbs, explores and who wants to experience new things. The collection is both raw and refined: natural fabrics with raw edges are mixed with refined elements, such as shiny metallics and futuristic accessories. There’s a freedom in the way the collection can be worn, too: we want our customers to feel that anything goes,” says Ann-Sofie Johansson, Creative Advisor at H&M.

KEY PIECES Tactile layers and psychedelic color hits create a new insouciant mood. Key pieces include an airy electric pink floor-sweeping dress; a limestone-hued, strong-shouldered cropped jacket with raw-edged hems and matching widelegged trousers; a striped pair of crisp, cream cotton jeans; a thick-weave crochet cardigan in pink, cream and beige stripes; and chunky cream platform ankle boots. FABRICS Natural viscose/linen mixes give tailoring a louche ease; twill-jersey blends lend leggings and tailoring an athletic edge; organic cotton offers a selection of blouses and denim pieces a carefree, capacious quality; and recycled polyester adds a weightlessness to several oversized dresses.

“A research trip to the Swedish island of Gotland, where the landscape resembles the lunar surface, gave us ideas for textures and color palettes. The hand-worked prints were inspired by the island’s rock formations, known as rauks, which have been weathered into sculptural shapes. I wanted to make the prints feel psychedelic, so we introduced an electric color palette,” says Moa Bartling, H&M’s Print Designer. ACCESSORIES Statement-making platform boots meet elegant heeled thong-strap sandals, futuristic sunglasses and mirrored full moon-shaped earrings in an accessories collection that introduces a punk edge to the collection’s airy volumes. Also, key is the pale lavender-hued bag, a graband-go essential in a casual scrunchy shape. “Photographing the collection in natural sunlight and in a secluded beach location was a beautiful reminder of how humans are connected to Mother Nature. The wind and the waves had such a palpable energy that squared with the freedom of the surf aesthetic. The collection is fun and sporty, so I wanted to mix a flirtatious aesthetic with a boyish vibe to show off the versatility of the clothes,” says the stylist Ludivine Poiblanc. We chatted with Ann-Sofie Johansson, Creative Advisor at H&M, to learn more about the collection: Who is the H&M S/S20 Studio woman? The Studio collection is H&M’s most fashion-forward collection, so the H&M Studio woman is always someone with a keen interest in fashion and personal style. For S/S20, the dedicated design team that works on this collection was envisioning a free spirit, someone who is curious, courageous, determined. She is [open] to experiencing new things and exploring new places. Can you tell us about specific elements from this collection that make you feel most excited about S/ S20? What stands out to me about this collection is that it is both raw and refined: it captures the raw appeal of nature, with rough trims and natural linens, loose-weave knits and airy dresses, combined with the refined nature of shiny Lurex pieces, metallics, and more futuristic finishes. I love that mix – it’s not prescriptive, so we hope customers will find something they love and wear it in their own unique way.

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How does the location of the Swedish island of Gotland serve as inspiration for the collection? We were really energized by this feeling of freedom. The design team had watched Free Solo, the documentary about the rock climber scaling El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, and found it so inspiring. Then we were thinking about surf culture, less from a literal fashion perspective, more about the ease and the fun. The team went on a research trip to Gotland, a place of outstanding natural beauty in Sweden, where the limestone has been weathered into formations called “rauks”. Much of the island looks almost like a lunar landscape. We had fun with some prints inspired by photographs we took on the research trip, and then combined those with the ease of the surfer girl, lots of airy volumes but also some super cool tailoring. Can you tell us more about the key color palettes to look out for in the H&M S/S Studio collection? As I mentioned, there is what I call a mix of raw and refined. So, there are natural stone colors, along with beige, brown, and black, contrasted with some psychedelic hues: hot pink, tangerine, flashes of neon. There’s really something for everyone. What are some of your favorite pieces from the collection? How would you style them? My favorite pieces are the tailoring items. I love the rawedged linen suit in the stony beige, which I’d wear with mules and a T-shirt. I also love the coordinating satin top and trousers, in hot pink – I’d wear them with flat sandals in the day, and dress them up with the platform boots for the evening. The H&M Studio S/S20 collection will be available at H&M in 1st Avenue-The Avenues and Grand Avenue-The Avenues as well as on www.kw.hm.com from February 20.

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LULU

EASY ON THE EYES By bazaar staff

SMITH OPTICS PROTECTS YOUR EYES FROM THE ELEMENTS

According to the American Academy of Opthalmology (AAP), every year 100,000 people will sustain an eye injury while playing a sport, 42% of them will need emergency medical care and sadly 13,000 people end up blind. Fortunately, protection works, the AAP believes that 90% of injuries are preventable with protective eye gear. But you still need to be donning the correct type or you might end up with an even worse problem.

Goggles and protective sunglasses can be the best way to protect your eyes not only from impact with an object but also from the sun, dust and the elements. Until very recently, your only option was to order something online and hope for the best, you couldn’t try it on for comfort or size until it was already at your doorstep. Not anymore, as Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Co. just launched SMITH optics in Kuwait. Dr. Bob Smith, orthodontist and original ski bum, wanted to be able to spend more time on the slopes so he developed the first sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam goggles. With the new goggles, he could get a few more powder runs on days when everyone else had to go indoors. SMITH Optics have been pioneering advanced products for more than 50 years that fuel fun beyond walls, creating innovations that amplify awesome, and crafting gear where every detail makes a difference. The SMITH Optics gear protects your eyes from the most common types of eye injuries. An object hitting your eye might cause blunt trauma, or penetrating injuries if it causes a cut. Riding buggies in the desert and paintball are lots of fun, until someone gets hurt. The life-giving sun can also cause radiation injury from harmful exposure to ultraviolet light especially in sports like water skiing, fishing, sailing and obviously skiing. SMITH first revolutionized the outdoor experience through the introduction of the first interchangeable lens system for sunglasses and snow goggles, then quickly took fog-free goggle technology to the next level with the launch of two new ventilation systems for seamless goggle/helmet integration. Over the next few years, SMITH developed the world’s largest eco-friendly sunglass collection in the world. Recently, the brand created the most

scientifically advanced polarized lens technology, ChromaPop, while simultaneously creating a dramatically new approach to ventilation and protection in snow and bike helmets through the use of Aerocore technology. SMITH is dedicated to making products that authentically empower thrill seekers and modern explorers in snow, bike, fish, surf, peak performance outdoor adventure and more by building on 50 years of heritage to inform the next 50 years of innovation. With over a half a century of designing dynamic products and pioneering innovations that evolve the sports and experiences of its athletes and enthusiasts, from sand to snow, SMITH continues to blend clean style into products tuned for thrilling experiences, while maintaining an inclusive and vibrant personality. Whether you are heading to the ski slopes or hitting the sand dunes this winter investing in protective gear is an expense you cannot afford to skimp on. Make sure you have the proper helmet and eyewear so. You can fully enjoy the experience while being safe. Fully immersing ourselves in the great outdoors chasing the next thrill is invigorating and helps us in finding ourselves, changes our perspective on life and keeps us healthy. The experience is everything. Here’s to one hell of a good time for the next 50 years.

Smith products are available in Explorers Base, Vans, The North Face and Carbon Fiber Stores in Kuwait. You can also shop the collection online at ExplorersBase.com. For more information call 2225 6323 or follow @ExplorersBase on Instagram. 81

WHAT IS LOVE, ACTUALLY?

The world's languages describe emotions very differently By Amina Khan

Is the meaning of love truly universal? It might depend on the language you speak, a new study finds. Scientists who searched out semantic patterns in nearly 2,500 languages from all over the world found that emotion words such as angst, grief and happiness could have very different meanings depending on the language family they originated from. The findings, described in the journal Science, shed light on the diversity of human feeling expressed around the globe while still mapping some common linguistic landmarks among the languages' internal emotional landscapes. "We walk around assuming that everyone else's experience is the same as ours because we name it with the same word, and this suggests that that might not be the case," said senior author Kristen Lindquist, a psychologist and neuroscientist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. "I think there are some real implications for how we understand the emotional and social behaviors of people around the world." Many languages have words whose meanings seem so specific and nuanced that there's no way to translate them; they can only be imported wholesale. Consider the German "schadenfreude," the pleasure derived from another's misfortune, or "sehnsucht," a sort of deep yearning for an alternative life. Those kinds of emotion words often feel rooted in the culture from which they emerged, said Asifa Majid, a cognitive scientist at the University of York in England. She pointed to the feeling of "awumbuk," which Baining people in Papua Guinea experience when their guests depart after an overnight stay. It leaves people listless, she wrote in a commentary that accompanies the study, something akin to a "social hangover." Yet many languages also have words that English speakers might think of as "basic" emotions love, hate, anger, fear, sadness, happiness. Early theories, influenced by Charles Darwin and pegged to shared biological structures in humans, suggest there are certain universal emotions that serve as the source material for all others, as primary colors might be blended to create many new shades. But just as later work has suggested that different cultures do not always categorize color in the same ways, there's a growing understanding that even those supposedly "primary" emotions may hold their own meanings and nuances in different

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cultures that aren't directly translatable. That raises an intriguing question: Are the supposedly "basic" emotions truly universal, or are they fundamentally specific to a culture and its language? "This is also a huge debate in linguistics and cognitive science and philosophy," Lindquist said. "How much does language reach down in your experience and shape it?" Answering this question is really hard because cross-cultural studies on emotion often compare just

two groups; even when more are involved, they're usually from industrialized and globalized nations. It's also hard to avoid certain kinds of bias among both experimenters and study participants. So Lindquist and her colleagues tried a different approach. They put together a database that drew from translation dictionaries and word lists for 2,474 spoken languages across 20 major language families. Their sample included roughly a third of the world's languages, including some spoken by millions of people and others used by only a few thousand.

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The more than 100,000 words they collected featured 2,439 unique concepts, including two dozen for emotions. They took advantage of a phenomenon called colexification, where languages tend to use one word to cover more than one concept. (For example, in Russian there is a word that names both hand and arm, and in many languages the same word can mean bark, skin or leather.) These overlapping meanings give the scientists a better sense of the core ideas underlying the words. For each language, the researchers used statistical methods to create a network of shared or overlapping meanings for words expressing concepts of emotion. That helped them see which feelings speakers of a given language considered similar to one another and how those judgments of emotional similarity differed depending on the language they spoke. The scientists found that all studied languages seemed to differentiate emotions based on two key factors: valence (how pleasant or unpleasant an emotion is) and activation (the level of physiological arousal associated with an emotion). These, Lindquist said, are likely linked to physiological states a nod to the role biology may play in emotion. Beyond those two major factors, however, the researchers found that language families encoded feelings in a wide variety of ways. Take the Persian word "ĂŚnduh," which is used to express the English-conceptualized emotions of "grief" and "regret." The Sirkhi dialect of Dargwa, in contrast, uses "dard" to convey both "grief" and "anxiety." Persian speakers, it seems, may think of grief as more related to regret while Dargwa speakers may see it as more similar to anxiety. "Anger," another emotion English speakers might think of as basic, also revealed its share of complexities. In Indo-European languages (a huge group that includes such disparate tongues as English and HindiUrdu), it was closely linked to the emotional concept of "anxiety." But in Austroasiatic languages (which include Vietnamese and Khmer), "anger" was related to "grief" and "regret." Nakh-Daghestanian languages (which include Northeast Caucasian languages such as Chechen) connect anger to "envy," while Austronesian languages (a family that includes Tagalog and Maori) linked anger to "hate," "bad" and "proud." "We interpret these findings to mean that emotion words vary in meaning across languages," the study authors wrote, "even if they are often equated in translation dictionaries." The researchers also found that languages whose speakers historically lived in geographic proximity tended to share similar networks of meaning. Whether this is because they share a linguistic inheritance or because they borrow liberally from their neighbors remains to be seen, the scientists said. Majid called the breadth of languages and wide array of emotional concepts covered in the paper "unprecedented." "I thought it was really exciting," she said in an interview. "That's a new way to try and look at how emotions are expressed."

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Tel: +965 184 888 www.tsck.org.kw

K.S.C.C.

A LITTLE RETRO ROMANCE

This decade is undefined with & Other Stories By bazaar staff

This decade & Other Stories is presenting us with effortlessly eclectic styles from their Paris atelier and we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to get our hands on them. Warmly (figuratively speaking, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cold) step into the new season with the allembracing styles from their Paris atelier.

Infused with a little retro romance, gently flared denim, embroidered knits and ruffled dresses, this makes for a dangerously feminine look. Previously, that look used to mean demure and powerless, it has now become a look that is embodied by the strong, independent woman who is unafraid of the world but is still in touch with her more sensitive and feminine side. Whether you want to go full on girly or not, don’t worry. & Other stories’ lines are diverse, ranging from masculine tailoring to feminine chic, and designed to provide you with endless styling choices. The brand understands how the choices of what you wear are more than just fashion statements. Every outfit is a representation of your beliefs and values, and that you can easily swing from flirtatious to fierce while still standing for the same thing. The varied mix of statement and staple pieces from the collection come together to build a wardrobe that can easily take you through all your moods, occasions and missions.

Originally launched in 2013, & Other Stories offers a wide range of shoes, bags, and accessories for women. Beautifully designed clothes are delivered from ateliers in Paris, Stockholm and Los Angeles. Atelier’s are super cool studios where creatives come together to create art, whether it be in fashion or in other medias. & Other Stories’ designer’s display fab collections with great attention to detail and quality while still keeping their prices affordable. In this particular collection, titled “A Little Retro Romance,” pieces come from the City of Lights, Paris. & Other Stories encourages individual styles, and supports the love for fashion. For those reasons, it has a wide range of styles, turning all women into fashion-loving ones. At the end of the day, it is about bringing everything a modern woman can wear into one place, while focusing on the whole look. Keeping that in mind, the company takes inspiration from world trends, agreeing that fashion is constantly evolving and so do styles. Fashion is a process of expression. Different people have different stories they can tell through their outfits. At & Other Stories, you write your own stories, and can switch it up whenever you feel like it. What is your story this season? Does it follow this Parisian beauty who is reinventing the romantic essence of the iconic French girl?

For more information and news on & Other Stories,follow @andotherstories, #andotherstories , #storieskuwait on Instagram. 87

EVEN COMPUTER ALGORITHMS CAN BE BIASED Scientists have different ideas of how to prevent that By Amina Khan

Scientists say they’ve developed a framework to make computer algorithms “safer” to use without creating bias based on race, gender or other factors. The trick, they say, is to make it possible for users to tell the algorithm what kinds of pitfalls to avoid — without having to know a lot about statistics or artificial intelligence. With this safeguard in place, hospitals, companies and other potential users who may be wary of putting machine learning to use could find it a more palatable tool for helping them solve problems, according to a report in this week’s edition of the journal Science. Computer algorithms are used to make decisions in a range of settings, from courtrooms to schools to online shopping sites. The programs

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sort through huge amounts of data in search of useful patterns that can be applied to future decisions. But researchers have been wrestling with a problem that’s become increasingly difficult to ignore: although the programs are automated, they often provide biased results. For example, an algorithm used to determine prison sentences predicted higher recidivism rates for black defendants found guilty of crimes and a lower risk for white ones. Those predictions turned out to be wrong, according to a ProPublica analysis. Biases like this often originate in the real world. An algorithm used to determine which patients were eligible for a health care coordination program was under-enrolling black patients largely because the code relied on real-world health spending data — and black patients had fewer dollars spent on them than whites did. Even if the information itself is not biased,

algorithms can still produce unfair or other “undesirable outcomes,” said Philip Thomas, an artificial intelligence researcher at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and lead author of the new study. Sorting out which processes might be driving those unfair outcomes, and then fixing them, can be an overwhelming task for doctors, hospitals or other potential users who just want a tool that will help them make better decisions. “They’re the experts in their field but perhaps not in machine learning — so we shouldn’t expect them to have detailed knowledge of how algorithms work in order to control the behavior of the algorithms,” Thomas said. “We want to give them a simple interface to define undesirable behavior for their application and then ensure that the algorithm will avoid that behavior with high probability.” So the computer scientists developed a different

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type of algorithm that allowed users to more easily define what bad behavior they wanted their program to avoid. This, of course, makes the algorithm designers’ job more difficult, Thomas said, because they have to build their algorithm without knowing what biases or other problematic behaviors the eventual user won’t want in the program. “Instead, they have to make the algorithm smart enough to understand what the user is saying is undesirable behavior, and then reason entirely on its own about what would cause this behavior, and then avoid it with high probability,” he said. “That makes the algorithm a bit more complicated, but much easier for people to use responsibly.” To test their new framework, the researchers tried it out on a dataset of entrance exam scores for 43,303 Brazilian students and the grade point averages they earned during their first three semesters at college. Standard algorithms that tried to predict a

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student’s GPA based on his or her entrance exam scores were biased against women: the grades they predicted for women were lower than were actually the case, and the grades they predicted for men were higher. This caused an error gap between men and women that averaged 0.3 GPA points — enough to make a major difference in a student’s admissions prospects. The new algorithm, on the other hand, shrank that error range to within 0.05 GPA points — making it a much fairer predictor of students’ success. The computer scientists also tried out their framework on simulated data for diabetes patients. They found it could adjust a patient’s insulin doses more effectively than a standard algorithm, resulting in far fewer unwanted episodes of hypoglycemia. But others questioned the new approach. Dr. Leo Anthony Celi, an intensivist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and research scientist

at MIT, argued that the best way to avoid bias and other problems is to keep machine learning experts in the loop throughout the entire process rather than limiting their input to the initial design stages. That way they can see if an algorithm is behaving badly and make any necessary fixes. “There’s just no way around that,” said Celi, who helped develop an artificial intelligence program to improve treatment strategies for patients with sepsis. Likewise, front-line users such as doctors, nurses and pharmacists should take a more active role in the development of the algorithms they rely upon, he said. The authors of the new study were quick to point out that their framework was more important than the algorithms they generated by using it. “We’re not saying these are the best algorithms,” said Emma Brunskill, a computer scientist at Stanford University and the paper’s senior author. “We’re hoping that other researchers at their own labs will continue to make better algorithms.”

MEET THE DENIM OF YOUR DREAMS

Monkiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest denim drop makes for endless style possibilities By bazaar staff

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing quite like a new pair of denims to get you excited about the new season, especially when cutesy denim skirts, paired with flouncy floral tops and timeless wide-leg jeans worn with easy cropped tops, are involved. Leave it to the good people at Monki to give us new season perfection in the form of their latest denim drop!

This February, Monki is releasing their latest denim campaign promoting new styles, as well as new ways to wear your favorite denim pieces. This season’s drop substitutes the classic white tee and fitted blue jeans – with bright organza blouses and unique denim details. We’re loving the dramatic contrast between the evening whimsy that we so easily associate with organza against the utilitarianism of denim, the result is such an inspiring reinvention of how to do denim. Let denim speak to your style, you can pair Monki’s Mom Jeans with the bright red Donna Shirt Jacket, or a structured top from your own personal collection— the possibilities are endless! Key pieces include the asymmetric denim skirt that can be styled over straight leg jeans, for a back to the 90’s look. Coordinated sets and vintage fits are perfectly paired with feminine blouses. The entire collection of denim tones bursts to life with new shades of rust brown and blush pink to set the tone for the upcoming spring season. Our personal favorites from the collection include the Yoko Wide Leg in a light, almost acid blue wash, as well as the Rio Wide Leg that’s bound to become an everyday staple. Don’t forget to accessorize your new denim wardrobe with Monki’s must-have pointy snake-skin boots, sparkly headbands, and of course, a trusted pair of Vans to complete your look (and any look for that matter!). One of our favorite things about Monki’s latest denim drop however, is the brand’s continuous focus on sustainability. Since 2016, Monki’s entire denim range has been produced using only 100% organic cotton. And since 2018, all Monki’s cotton has been 100% sustainably sourced. This is all but a small step towards their ultimate goal to only use recycled or other sustainably sourced materials by 2030. So, in our books this drop scores double points on both style and sustainability.

The collection will be available starting midFebruary. Monki is located in Grand Avenue-The Avenues. For more information on Monki follow them on Instagram @monki.

CELEBRATING LOVE:ENTICING THEDINING JUMEIRAH WAY EXPERIENCES AND ROMANTIC GETAWAYS FOR JUST THE TWO OF YOU By bazaar staff

Love makes the world go ‘round, and it’s not like it’s everywhere to be found. When you do find that special person, it makes moments such as Valentine’s Day that much more special. This year, do not settle. Enjoy your night at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, where you will experience an unforgettable day. Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is adding sparkle and delight to Valentine’s Day with a plethora of romantic dining options, specially curated set menus, lavish spa treatments and room packages to celebrate the most romantic day of the year with your loved one. Experience the ultimate romantic getaway. Guests can cherish everlasting moments with Valentine’s Day package of a luxurious stay in a Grand Deluxe Room or Deluxe Suite decorated in rose petals in breath-taking detail for the occasion. Couples choosing this offer can enjoy complimentary benefits of in-room breakfast, decorated cake to suit your special occasion, flowers, access to executive lounge, pool, and beach area, 24-hour check-in and check-out and to wrap up the memorable day, guests can indulge and cherish romantic moments with a lavish three-course set menu dinner for two at Salt, the hotel’s seafood and international cuisine restaurant. Whether you’re enjoying an intimate candle light dinner at Pepper, indulging in authentic Italian cuisine at Olio, or simply sharing relaxed moments of togetherness at Salt and Mint, couples can celebrate precious moments to a memorable Valentine’s Day. 94

Pepper Steakhouse Couples can enjoy a truly unique dinner this Valentine’s Day with a set menu of fine cuts of meats flame-grilled to perfection. An enticing dining experience awaits, with a saxophone player for live entertainment and a caricaturist for a souvenir to take home. Salt Restaurant Create indelible moments with a culinary experience crafted by a brigade of talented chefs at the awardwinning restaurant. Lit by glowing candles and mesmerizing set up, couples can gaze into each other’s eyes while enjoying a sensory inspired menu that has been carefully crafted for this special day. The sounds of soulful live pianist and violinist will whisk guests away throughout the evening. Private venue available at both Salt Restaurant and Pepper Steakhouse. Olio Restaurant Celebrate love the Venetian way. This perfectly romantic spot combines the Italian devotion to food with Venetian hospitality, leaving you devouring only the best Italian cuisine while embracing the view over the Arabian Gulf.

Create an everlasting memory beneath the glittering stars with your loved one this Valentine. Mint Poolside Café Couples are in for a treat with a romantic lavish BBQ dinner buffet under the sky at Poolside café. Start your Valentine's date with a special someone by the pool overlooking the sparkling Arabian Sea. Then sit under the stars for an unforgettable dining with live performance artist and photo booth for memorable souvenirs. Gazebo Romance the love of your life on the shores of the Arabian Gulf with an unparalleled, private beach dining experience. Right by the sea, couples will discover a romantic escape unlike any other. Savor every bite with an exquisite four-course set menu as you look across to the gentle waves hitting the shoreline. Secret Garden Couples in the mood for a more private Valentine’s Day experience can treat their loved one to a luxurious private venue. Enjoy personalized service and exquisite

menu with complimentary non-alcoholic champagne, fresh rose bouquet and a heart-shaped cake while the couple relishes the violinist’s romantic tunes under the starry sky. Talise Spa Pamper your special someone this Valentine’s Day with a dreamy spa session for two at Talise Spa. Begin your journey to ultimate bliss, unwind and enjoy a 60-minute couple’s massage followed by an indulgent 30-minute foot massage and access to facilities. Cozy bathrobes await to then relax in comfort and style, while making the most of one another’s company following the treatment. The ultimate indulgence this Valentine's Day. With numerous options, there are endless opportunities to make some magical moments happen this Valentine’s Day at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa. Whether you are wanting to dine in with them, or spend the night overlooking shores of the Arabian Gulf speak to the experts at reservations to secure your spot and plan this wonderful night.

For more information, visit Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa’s Instagram @jumeirahmessilsahbeach. Reservations can be done by calling direct line +965 2226 9601 for rooms and +965 2226 9666 for dining, or emailing Jumeirahrestaurant@jumeirah.com 95

WHEN PRACTICALITY WINS The springsummer collection at COS By bazaar staff

The upcoming season collection at COS is one that focuses on technicality, along with innovation. These two key points materialize into a wardrobe full of functionality but with a detailed construction. Minimalistic and raw-edged techniques are clearly seen within every piece at COS. A prominent color palette that showcases neutrals, industrial light greys but also contrasted of electric cyan, powerful red, and a soothing mustard yellow with some indigo blue. 96

The collectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspiration revolves around geometric surfaces and aerial landscapes. Seen more in the silhouettes of womenswear that includes oversized pieces with double layering and hidden pockets in dresses. For the menswear, layering will surely make an outfit statement, intertwining it with feminine approaches to optimize style preferences. Pairing the collection with simple yet intricate accessories for both women and men will elevate your look to a whole new level. Texture and construction are pivotal in creating distinctive interwoven details for the collection. Foiled high-twist fabrics are merged with cotton in a recent and technical method. COS has progressed their fabrics, as all the cotton within the collection is 100% more sustainably sourced, including the Better Cotton Initiative through sourcing organic, recycled, and repurposed cotton. Classic three-piece tailoring is also reinvented in the form of a sleeveless blazer, a tailored boxer short and straight leg trouser entirely made from spun silk. The draping and tailoring can be seen in a deconstructed cotton poplin dress. Hems are actually reworked from low to high for a modern fit with a timeless neckline. The slip-on mules work perfectly for both women and men to achieve that effortless simplicity of an outfit. The accessories are dashingly designed to shape a recycled rectangular sterling silver earring, and a folded triangular leather bag. A multi-purpose blanket for men can also be styled to create a seamless bag. For the season, COS keeps it elegant with beautiful headbands and curved hair barrettes, inspired by the same geometric landscapes of the collection to complete your spring summer outfit goals!

COS is located in Grand Avenue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Avenues, Al Kout Mall, and Marina Mall. For more information follow @cosstores on Instagram and Facebook.

bazaar goes dining

DINE HIGH IN THE SKY TAKE A TRIP TO THE FAR EAST WITH SINTOHO’S NEW MENU AT FOUR SEASONS HOTEL KUWAIT

By bazaar staff

The new Sintoho is the destination in Kuwait for the best food, coolest vibes, and incredible beats selected by a live DJ. Experience the famous bao dumplings and mouthwatering sushi while the Mixologist prepares your beverage of choice on the bar counter. Prepare for an action-filled dining experience, as all hot dishes are prepared in the dining room using Sintoho’s featured Robata grill, the Bao Steamer and the Teppanyaki table.

Soaring above the city on the 21st floor, Sintoho invites guests to discover the best of modern Far-Eastern cuisine as they dine high in the sky while reveling in the restaurant’s energetic vibe and lively ambience. A dynamic hub of exotic flavors and culinary art, the stylish venue offers an interactive experience for diners as dishes are prepared before their eyes, filling the air with irresistible aromas. Guests can choose from an assortment of the finest cuts from the Robata grill, delicious bao dumplings fresh from the steamer and creative dishes prepared on an authentic Japanese Teppanyaki table. The new menu also features an extensive array of sushi selections, while the restaurant’s resident Mixologists will be on hand to shake things up as they prepare a range of refreshing cocktails at the bar counter. Upon entrance, guests are greeted by lovely staff members, who specialize in providing a distinguished customer experience. Guests will be assisted on a walk to their table, passing by a gorgeous entryway and an in-house DJ, before arriving to their spot. A palate cleansing shot is offered first, some days it could be a warm honey, ginger and lemon while other days it could be something completely different. Next up, remarkable drinks are offered by Sintoho’s very own Mixologists. For our last visit, we tried the delicious Tokyo Night and Pearl of Orient which were, to say the least, very unique both in presentation and taste. #MustTryMocktails The house music in the background compliments the sophisticated theme and luxury of the restaurant. In a setting where basically all of Kuwait is captured outside the window, all your senses will be satiated. The lounge and its neutral color palette of the interior brings a calmness that prepares you to enjoy a memorable meal ahead. For appetizers, options are vastly inclusive. With the choice of ordering different delicious salads, such as the Young Spinach Sprouts which is basically baby spinach leaves, with dry-miso, parmesan cheese and a yuzu-truffle dressing. For truffle lovers, this order is a no brainer. There are also non-vegetarian options, such as the Rock Popcorn Shrimps, for anyone wanting to start with a more filling meal. Next, for dumplings, always perfect for sharing, the options are simple. There are four dumplings in a ceramic dish that come with a lid to keep your dumplings nice and steamy. They range from Prawns, Scallops, Mushroom and Truffle, Pak Choi and Chicken. Sintoho also offers Bao, Tacos and sliders for our more traditional people. For main courses, a plate of delicious food from the interactive robatayaki experience awaits you with live cooking at the grill. For extra fun and flavor, try their new options of Teppanyaki with the popular juggling of the iron griddle that will cook your food in front of you. Sintoho has reinvented the fine dining experience into a sumptuous culinary affair.

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Other favored main dishes are the Makizushi and Hand-rolled sushi offerings. Titled “Never too late”, “Canadian Lobster”, “California Maki”, “Salmon and Avocado” and “Yellowtail Hamachi”, they make for delightful bites to share, or to keep to yourself. We suggest keeping to yourself. Just when you think things can’t get any better, dessert will be introduced. With their remarkable Matcha sponge cake and ice cream, your taste buds will be revived once again. Sintoho also offers a 100% vegan dessert which consists of a ridiculously good raspberry sauce, with ice cream and almond sponge cake. Alongside many meaty options, Sintoho prides itself on having a special plant-based menu just as tasty so you do not feel left out at all. Sintoho is the new gourmet destination in Kuwait City located at the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya, a hub of experiences and flavors where guests can taste the best of the Modern Far East Cuisine. With a modern twist in every plate, and a renewed menu, it is a must try before the season is over. For reservations at Sintoho, WhatsApp or call 2200 6000. Follow Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait on Instagram and Twitter @fskuwait, and Facebook: FourSeasonsHotelKuwait for more information and the latest updates.

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LUXURY AND PERFORMANCE IN PERFECT HARMONY Bentleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Flying Spur is a car for both the driver and the driven By bazaar staff

The new exquisite Flying Spur is by far the most unique car by Bentley. It is for the earner that has made it to the top. It offers breathtaking designs, innovative technology and a powerful, but smooth ride. With its constant ability to adapt to changing environments and driving conditions, your hands are safe behind the wheels of the Flying Spur.

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As soon as the car is switched on, the innovative illuminating wing design addition to the new striking Flying B mascot, catches the eyes of even a stranger. Redesigned for Bentley’s next 100 years, the new flying B mascot electronically deploys and illuminates when the car is unlocked. The new design option is available on the Flying Spur for the first time since the 1950s and has been completely redesigned for our second century. Both a luxury limousine and sports sedan, the new Flying Spur pushes the boundaries of both craftsmanship and technology to deliver segment-defining levels of refinement and power. This dual positioning differentiates the car from the competition. Astounding design details, sculpted surfaces and precise feature lines create a car with an increased presence and assertive nature. The upright front end is dynamic, with a striking gloss black radiator matrix, and the signature haunch line above the rear wheel magnifies the muscular feel of the car. A faster-looking and more elegant roofline, and side-glass profile results in a sculpted stance that is complemented by the increased wheelbase and exclusive new 21” and 22” wheels. Exquisite detailing ensures the new Flying Spur’s balanced exterior is further elevated. While the beautiful front LED matrix headlamps are enhanced by a new chrome sleeve behind the cut-glass elements, ensuring the lights sparkle like jewels – even when not lit. Since this car is an experience for both the driver and the passenger. For the drivers, the new Flying Spur offers breathtaking performance. For passengers, it provides the ultimate in luxurious transportation. With a state-of-the-art W12 engine – shared with the Continental GT – that delivers 635 PS of power and 900 Nm of torque, the new Flying Spur delivers astounding power. While the Active All-Wheel Drive system results in a dynamic and engaging driving experience, there is maximum stability and responsiveness on all road surfaces. In a first for Bentley, the Electronic All-Wheel Steering enhances the steering of the new Flying Spur at both highway speeds and when maneuvering around the city. Seamlessly integrated for ease of use, the Digital Instrument Display is introduced in the new Flying Spur for maximum driver usability and convenience. The intuitive LED matrix headlamps cut a ‘hole’ into the beam around oncoming vehicles, avoiding dazzling other drivers and providing the Bentley driver with optimized visibility, while the Night Vision infra-red camera monitors the road up to 300 m ahead, providing visual and aural warnings of pedestrians or animals that might be in the road, ideal for a safety feature. Astounding details, sculpted surfaces and precise feature lines create constant discovery. An Assertive Exterior Design The new Flying Spur has an increased presence and assertive nature due to its exterior design elements. The front end is more upright, with a vertical vane and striking gloss black radiator matrix, while the car has a faster-looking and more elegant roofline and side-glass profile. The signature main powerline along the side of the body and the haunch line have been disconnected on this new Flying Spur (it was previously one continuous line on the secondgeneration Flying Spur). This has enabled the line to be placed

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above the rear wheel, magnifying the muscular feel of the car. This assured and sculpted stance has also been elevated by the extended wheelbase: it has been extended by 130 mm and the front wheel has been moved further forward. The bonnet profile has also been lifted, resulting in balanced proportions and a commanding character. The car possesses the largest Super Plastic Formed (SPF) aluminum panel in the automotive industry, contributing to a unified and smooth exterior. An Exquisite Cabin Comfort is a priority in the design of the interior of the new Flying Spur, and the cabin is airier and lighter, spacious and calming. With a luxurious and open feeling, the stylish front cabin focuses on providing an intuitive and seamless driving experience by placing features in logical positions. The Bentley wings have inspired the unique lower dash and console – a floating design with the wings wrapping underneath it. This has created stowage compartments on either side, while the stunning center vent is beautifully sculpted with precision detailing. The wings design is carried throughout the interior, flowing from the veneered fascia into the doors on both sides of the cabin and into the rear door graphic. Delivering segment-defining levels of performance and refinement, the exquisite cabin introduces an automotive world-first: threedimensional, diamond leather upholstery. The new option, developed by the team of exceptional craftsmen and women based in Crewe, is just one of many new, advanced features and technologies included in the new Flying Spur. Authentic materials and artisan craft create a refined and unique interior, while elements, such as the twin flute seats, result in the utmost comfort for all occupants. Class-Leading Colors And Veneers The 17 standard exterior colors have been carefully chosen to complement the exterior style of the new Flying Spur and enable owners to make their car unique to them: Beluga, Onyx, Moonbeam, St James’ Red, Dark Sapphire, Thunder, Glacier White, Portofino, Marlin, Meteor, Midnight Emerald, Granite, White Sand, Hallmark, Camel, Dark Cashmere, and Havana. The standard veneer is Crown Cut Walnut, with its horizontal grain contributing to a feeling of interior spaciousness. There is also the ability to increase the model’s distinctiveness further with a choice of alternative veneers. The New Flying Spur Audience The target audience for the new Flying Spur are Life Achievers. These people are entrepreneurs and business leaders with a creative soul, luxury to them is aesthetically pleasing, innovative and emotional. They are self-made, self-assertive and selective. They’re collaborative professionally and personally, often with families. They have a compulsive character, and are always ‘working on themselves’. Productivity and wellness are symbols of hard-work, energy and determination. They choose a car which reflects these values, and at the same time allows them to relax and re-energize. It’s a conscious choice of mobility, form and function.

For more information on this, and other Bentley cars, you can visit www. bentleymotors.com.To visit your Kuwait Bentley dealership, check out their website www.zayani.bentleymotors.com, head over to Al Zayani Trading Co, or call them on 2473 5199. 104

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Maki

YES, IT'S REALLY PLANT BASED. CRISPY OLIVA GUNKAN (VG) KUWAIT - MANAMA - DOHA

MASERATI PRESENTS THE ROYALE SPECIAL SERIES A contemporary homage to the heritage of the Trident Marque By bazaar staff

Beauty can be reflected in a jewel, a painting or landscape. Elegance, on the other hand, is not confined to a simple glance. Elegance can be found in movement, in an expression or in conversation. Simply put, elegance is beauty in motion, and no car moves with more elegance than a Maserati, the ultimate expression of dynamic beauty. 106

Throughout its history Maserati has been known to stand out by creating unique models and exclusive series. Amongst them, the 1986 Royale version of the 3rd generation Quattroporte stands out. A restyling which features exclusive blue and green colors, improved interiors with soft leather seats, and extensive use of wood in the dashboard and door panels. The Quattroporte Royale was equipped with a powerful 4.9l V8 engine delivering 300 HP and only 51 units were produced. Today, Maserati pays tribute to its heritage with the launch of a special series bearing the same name. This will be available across all models with V6 engines featured in the current Maserati range. Only 100 Maserati Quattroporte, Levante and Ghibli Royale units will be produced with engines ranging from the 275HP 3.0l V6 Diesel, to the 350HP and 430 HP 3.0l V6 petrol.

The new Royale special series is available in two unique blue and green colors. Blu Royale and Verde Royale, colors that sing luxury. To complete the elegant exterior look, the Levante Royale features 21” Anteo Staggered Anthracite rims and Titanium Anthracite rims on Ghibli and Quattroporte, all bespoke for the series, and all with silver brake calipers. The Royale interiors, based on the GranLusso trim, are available in Zegna PELLETESSUTA Cuoio or two-tone Pieno Fiore leather in Black/Cuoio. The Zegna PELLETESSUTA is a woven leather textile made exclusively for Maserati vehicle interiors. Born of old-world Italian traditions and today’s innovative technology, it was ingeniously fashioned using thin strips of Nappa leather to create an ultra-luxurious “fabric” that is lightweight, soft and durable. High-Gloss inserts (Metal Net for the

Levante, Ebony for the Ghibli and Black Piano for the Quattroporte) and a distinctive “One of 100” plate complete the interior look, which also features the Bowers&Wilkins Sound System, electric sunroof and privacy glass. The Royale Special Series comes with extensive equipment, thanks to the Cold Weather, Premium and Driving Assistance Plus Packages fitted as standard. Although, that might not seem like a necessity all year long here in Kuwait, it sure would help during the colder months. Whether driving down city streets or taking part in an exclusive grand tour, high-powered luxury will be met with greater-than-ever safety on the road. Since safety is not something that should be compromised on, The Maserati Levante, Quattroporte, and Ghibli Royale feature comprehensive Advanced Driving Assistance Systems. These systems actively respond to

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the greatest potential hazards on the roads and enhance comfort and safety for driver and passengers. Like the rest of the range, the Royale Special Series features the Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) unit, an 8.4â&#x20AC;? touchscreen interface that takes pride of place at the center of the dashboard and is extremely straightforward to use. The MTC+ controls all the key vehicle functions, including the front seat heating, as well as the ventilation, steering wheel heating and the operation of the rear sunblind, where fitted. The screen also displays the rear view depicted by the reversing camera, with guidelines for ease of use. The state-of-the-art system features both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mirroring functions. In addition, for iPhone users, Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Siri system acts as a personal assistant, allowing them to carry out tasks using voice command. Through naturally spoken language, it is possible to make a call or access music, messages, reminders, emails, websites and much more. Although the first deliveries are scheduled for March 2020, orders for this series limited to only 100 units can already be placed.

For more information, visit the Maserati Showroom at Al Zayani, Al Rai Industrial Area, 4th Ring Road, call 1808 010 or visit kuwait. maserati.com. For the latest updates, please follow Maserati on Instagram @maseratikuwait.

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cheescake factory

BORGWARD

INTRODUCING THE BRAND THAT BECAME A LEGEND By bazaar staff

Carl Borgward (left) at work

When admiring German automotive Borgward’s history, it comes as no surprise to learn that this giant’s modern operations span from Stuttgart, Germany all the way to China, Russia, India, Brazil, the Asia-Pacific region, the rest of Europe, as well the Middle East. Now available in Kuwait, Borgward’s incredible story began with one sentence by its founding father Carl F.W. Borgward when he firmly stated, “I want to make a car.”

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Borgward’s incredible racing legacy broke 51 world records

The HANSA 1500 Fast forward to present day, Borgward’s core values are steeped in quality craftsmanship, intelligence, forward-thinking and accessibility. Passionate about creating intelligent premium vehicles, this German brand’s mission is to ‘feel the future’ by revolutionizing the automotive industry itself. Borgward offers an extremely diverse product line, which includes epochmaking sedans, race cars, buses, fire trucks and even helicopters. Stepping into 1919 A look back at Borgward’s impressive fleet of vehicles is never complete without paying homage to its innovative automotive pioneer Carl F.W. Borgward. His legendary story began at the end of the 19th century. Carl F.W. Borgward (hereafter as Carl Borgward) was born as the German auto industry was merely in its infancy. As if by the hand of fate, his life was connected to automobiles since birth. Some say he was the pioneer of the future car, others credited him as an automotive genius, but he was truly much more. Carl Borgward shined as a lifetime achiever. Raised as the son of a coal merchant with twelve brothers and sisters, Carl Borgward came from a modest background. What differentiated Carl Borgward from his other siblings was his fascination and immersion in the study of mechanical engineering. His inherent childhood

curiosity led him to often dismantle and reassemble his toys and by 1890, ten-year old Carl was able to repair clocks and even sewing machines. More surprisingly, he used scrapped springs, gears, plastic boxes and other materials to produce small model car. From then on, making cars became his greatest pleasure, which attracted great attention from acquaintances. At 18, he studied at the Hamburg Engineering School and Hanover Royal Institute of Technology, systematically accumulating professional knowledge in mechanical engineering, thus laying the solid foundation for his creation of the prominent Borgward automotive brand. After ten years’ study and practical experience, the 29-year old would have his breakthrough. Stimulated by German efforts to rebuild after World War I, the huge demand for industrial development became a phenomenon in 1919. Borgward seized the opportunity and became partner and general manager of Bremen Tire Industrial Co., Ltd., embarking on his journey to establish an automotive empire. Enter the HANSA An engineer with marketing vision, he was well aware of consumer demand and knew how it could be quenched. Mainstream automotive brands had not yet reached potential markets outside of Germany or

Europe, and weren’t mindful of the huge potential of Bremen, Germany's biggest port city, while he made an extraordinary move to bolster the export business, rapidly enriching his product line for foreign trade. This earned Borgward the title of most exported automotive brand in the industry and by 1939, his automotive empire dominated Northern Germany. As history has shown us, however, industry progress was halted immediately after the announcement of World War II. What was once a tranquil era had turned to ruin, and German industry was nearly devastated, which included the destruction of the Borgward factory. Facing this disheartening situation, Carl Borgward had, before him, unprecedented challenges. A judgement loomed over the 40-year-old tycoon. But yet, the war didn’t shatter Carl Borgward’s dream. He was sure that a new opportunity would materialize, and in 1949, as the world reembraced peace, the German economy showed signs of recovery. With courage and perseverance, Carl Borgward gathered former company engineers and designers once more to formulate a comeback which materialized in the Hansa 1500. Inspired by the military “pontoon” design that was quite popular in the US which then dominated the car design industry from 1930s-1960s, his first new model after the war was inventively different from what his competitors offered in the market. As a result, the [Continued...]

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Hansa 1500 was an instant sensation at the 1949 Geneva Motor Show! Against all odds By then, Borgward had become a well-known name in the industry and post-war Germany’s automotive industry experienced a new “renaissance” in German automobile demand following the introduction of Borgward’s Hansa 1500. Other automobile companies like Mercedes-Benz, Ford, and Opel successively adopted the "pontoon" design, which remained popular for ten years following Borgward’s initial release of the Hansa 1500 in 1949. But complacency never factored into this automotive genius’ playbook. In his mind, peak speed and excellent control are tantamount to high quality automobiles, and given his keen interest in car racing, Borgward was credited as the first German car brand to return to the race track after the war. Due to the seemingly prohibitive sums required to enter auto racing, his team of employees opposed the decision. Carl, however, stood firm on his decision despite the detractors to create INKA, a sports car with a streamlined aluminum alloy body. Borgward’s INKA raced on the Montlhéry track in France, breaking a dozen world records and it, along with Porsche Spyder, were benevolently nicknamed Heroic Duo, as Borgward tied Porsche for this coveted title. As the years progressed, Borgward continued to cement his company’s market leadership position, and invested heavily in engine technology, leading Borgward to present a giant leap in the field of automotive engines when FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) was applied for the first time into the Goliath GP700, bringing even more efficiency to automobile engines. From then on, other automotive brands in turn heavily invested to strengthen this technology. Take a quick glance at any car model’s specs and you will notice that FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) technology is an essential feature standard for nearly every car brand—all thanks to Borgward! Constantly beating out the competition, Borgward was also first to diversify his company’s production, giving us the world’s first compact car with the Lloyd LP300. Leading the way, the Lloyd LP300 featured the first-time technique of replacing the conventional heavier steel body of the car. For the first time, it adopted new materials to replace the steel body, ushering in a new epoch with a lightweight body to compete. While compact cars failed to attract attention in the traditional dealer showroom, this didn’t deter Borgward, as he built an independent sales network, recruited car dealers and setting up sales and repair shops across Germany which led to rapid sales. Yet another new technological breakthrough was revealed in 1953. At the time, no car manufacturer in Europe was able to integrate automatic transmission into a car, as this was seen as a very advanced concept. While others shied away, Carl Borgward saw this as an opportunity and began to experiment, until he successfully created the Hansa 2400, the first luxury car with an optional automatic transmission. The innovative three-gear transmission and hydraulic torque converter were independently developed in-house, highlighting Borgward’s innovative organization.

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Borgward pioneered the car export business in Bremen, Germany.

The BX7 In 1954, Borgward’s greatest masterpiece was created. At the age of 64, he designed the Isabella, his most aestheticallypleasing vehicle to date. Isabella became an instant sensation. It was a car full of gusto, including a new engine, chassis and body. Isabella had an elegant aerodynamic body with extensive use of chrome trims. Once launched, it competed directly with the Mercedes 180 and received wide fanfare: "Isabella has an irresistible charm. With its streamlined appearance, spacious interior, outstanding temperament and amazing speed, it is such a marvelous model." Market feedback and consumer demand greatly encouraged Carl Borgward to extend the vehicle line-up to include the Isabella convertible sedan, TS version, station wagons and various other models. Make 2020 the year you met the BX5 AND BX7 With its history deeply steeped in a passion for the automotive industry, it is perseverance, boldness, and capability which merits Borgward its worldwide attention and respect. What are you waiting for? Make 2020 the year you’re properly introduced to the BX5 and BX7.

Inside the BX7

The BX5 and BX7 The Borgward BX5 brings a breath of fresh air to the more compact SUV car segment with its youthful design, while still embodying all the classic SUV qualities, such as versatility, spaciousness, comfort and off-road capability at the same time. It’s dynamic, elegant and sporty, giving the BX5 superior and confident appearance. The Borgward BX7 is characterized by its advanced design, dynamically athletic and confident performance. With the design of both models born in the Borgward design center in Renningen near Stuttgart, their committed team of designers are working hard to consistently ensure that aesthetic standards are surpassed while also committing to Borgward’s legacy of innovation and technology. From the Octagon-shaped grille featuring the brand’s signature diamond, and the side wing lines that make the

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The BX5 BX5 instantly recognizable, you’ll love the side electronic folding and anti-fog heated mirrors, 18" aluminum wheels, LED Daytime running, insulating glass, Fog lights, Xenon Headlights, and rear electric rear gate. Inside the BX5, you’ll find five premium leather seats with a panoramic sunroof, dual zone air condition, ambient lights, and all of the other expected interior features that will give you an ultimately comfortable and beautiful drive. Luxury is at the helm of the BX7 experience, and inside the car you’ll find seven premium leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, amenities like a dual zone and third row vent Air Con system, a 12.3'' smart Touch Screen featured with mobile synchronization, Bluetooth, WiFi, ten speakers, voice recognition, GPS, 360 Degree Park Assist, USB and AU, gear selector, Start & Stop Engine Button, Powered Seats, Rear Electric Door, Cruise Control, as well as insulated windows. You can comfortably, ergonomically and confidently operate the BX5 and BX7 from the center console, complete with a multimedia 4.2'' colored smart touch screen that easily syncs with mobile synchronization, Bluetooth, WiFi, eight speakers, voice recognition, GPS,

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as well as 360-degree Parking Assist. Enjoy the best drive with the BX5’s 1.4L turbo charged engine with 147HP with max torque 250NM. Complete with Intelligent transmission with six Automatic Speed and permanent torque, as well as on-demand All Wheel Drive. Expect even more power from the BX7, with its 2.0L turbo charged engine with 221HP with max torque 300NM. The BX7 also offers intelligent transmission with six automatic speeds and permanent torque, as well as on-demand All Wheel Drive to suit all terrains. Your safety is also paramount to Borgward, this is why both the BX5 and BX7 models are fitted with the latest safety measures for maximum protection. Crucial body sections are reinforced with high-strength, ultra-high-strength or hot-rolled steel. In the case of any accidents, the deceleration values to the passive safety equipment and are as balanced as possible. Six airbags are also activated as required depending on the severity of the accident, and can dramatically mitigate the consequences of an accident on the occupants. The passive safety equipment unfolds its maximum

protection potential. The “B-Safe” system includes electronic brake force distribution, Traction Control System, Electronic Stability Program, Antiblock Brake System, Electronic Differential System, AutoHold, Tire Pressure Monitor System, Hill Start Assist Control, Hill Decent Control, Vehicle Stability Control, and many other impressive features to ensure maximum safety.

Borgward's official dealer in Kuwait is Al Zayani Trading Co.Please visit the Borgward showroom located in Al Rai on Gazali Street to check out their latest models. For more information and for their latest updates, follow them on instagram @borgward_kw or call 1821 222.

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THIS IS HAPPINESS

A book review By Becky Kover

The Ireland that Niall Williams writes about in this novel is gone or would be if he hadn't cradled it so tenderly in the clover of his prose. Escaping into the pages of This Is Happiness feels as much like time travel as enlightenment. Halfway through, I realized that if I didn't stop underlining passages, the whole book would be underlined. Although it takes place in the late 1950s, the story feels bathed in sepia tones, and that's not just the candlelight of Williams' nostalgia. Electricity has not yet come to the rainy parish of Faha in County Clare, where This Is Happiness is set. Proudly uninterested in the modern conveniences that other towns enjoy, these people work, instead, by the glow of lamps and moon, following the rhythms of life established centuries ago. But that and so much else is about to change when 17-year-old Noe Crowe arrives from Dublin. He has been sent to Faha to stay with his grandparents in their dark, thatched house. Haunted by the slow death of his mother, Noe has recently withdrawn from seminary, "not exactly in disgrace," he says, but terrified he might never "discover what it meant to live a fully human life." His experience in Faha will teach him and us much about that. The irony here is that Faha is of no consequence whatsoever. It tempts a young man with none of the adventure of Dublin nor the sophistication of London. "If you could find it, you'd be on your way somewhere else," Noe says. "Its destiny was to be a place passed over, and gently, wholly forgotten." But at just the right point in his life, when his spirit is raw for affection, this little village offers Noe the sanctuary he needs to emerge gently from the chrysalis of his own fear and timidity. If Faha isn't for everybody, then neither, frankly, is Williams' novel, delivered in the pensive voice of a man in his 70s recalling his youth. "This in miniature was the world," he writes, but that demands a kind of attention and patience that is increasingly scarce. If you are in a hurry, hurry along to another book. Williams is engaged in the careful labor of teaching us to hear the subtler melodies drowned out by the din of modern life. The dominant figure in Noe's memory of that long-ago period is an older man named Christy. He arrives around the same time and ends up bunking with Noe in the attic room in his grandparents' house. Nominally, he has come to Faha to work on the electrification of the village, but actually he has returned to make amends to a woman he wronged 50 years ago.

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To young Noe, Christy's quest is irresistibly romantic, although he has only a theoretician's understanding of what romance might actually mean, especially to a man and woman separated for a half-century. The sweetness of this novel would curdle if it weren't preserved by a tincture of tragedy that runs through so many of these lives. For all Noe's wide-eyed goofiness, he is a young man scarred early by grief, which might account for his precocious sympathy, his

ability to resonate with the quiet sorrow in others. Years later, looking back on Christy, he notes that the man "walked this line between the comic and poignant, between the certainly doomed and the hopelessly hopeful." Surely, he is describing his own precarious position, too. Williams' most affecting skill is his ability to narrate this novel in two registers simultaneously, capturing Noe's naivete as a teenager and his wisdom as an old man.

Chef â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mezzeh Indulge yourself in our new menu

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LIVING THE BEST MUJI LIFE Simple, practical and adaptable - an interior style in a class of its own By bazaar staff

Depending on who you ask, a home can be many things. For some, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a place to seek refuge from the daily stresses of life. For others, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where they bask in the company of loved ones. Some will tell you that home can be anywhere in the world, as long as they are with the right people.

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We expect a lot from our homes, whether big or small, our homes might serve as an office space, event hall or gym. With each additional function we require our homes to perform, a wholly different set of furniture and homeware is needed, thus rendering the ideal modern home an elusive, and often, pricey goal to reach. Unsurprisingly, people now expect furniture to be versatile and multifunctional. A shelf can’t just provide storage space but must also be customizable and even decorative. This is the direction that furniture designers are moving towards, with Japanese lifestyle retailer MUJI amongst them taking on a simple yet effective approach. Since its inception, the brand has produced items that are stripped of superfluous features, and which can be adapted to fit seamlessly into any user’s lifestyle and design aesthetic. This vision, which they’ve termed Compact Life, has driven the creation of homeware that go towards realizing a “simple, pleasant life”; products that simultaneously speak to the fussiest and most exacting of shoppers, while providing precisely the merits that are necessary. It’s an ideal that has never been more relevant or appealing than in today’s context and one that many have welcomed eagerly. If you have been considering reorganizing your life and living space, we have put together a guide that offers tips for organizing various areas in your home. Entertain with panache For a space that, at its most basic level, hardly needs anything more than a table and some chairs, a dining room can be surprisingly difficult to furnish. You probably host your guests here often, so seating capacity needs to be scaled up and down frequently. Take a look at your storage space, and make sure that you are using it efficiently so you can store tableware and food neatly. Set the table MUJI offers a wide range of kitchen utensils and tableware, perfectly designed to withstand wear and tear of everyday use. MUJI's White Porcelain is made with highly translucent Amakusa pottery stone, applying traditional techniques. Made using unique acacia wood grain, MUJI Acacia plates are handcrafted with precision. Natural and lightweight, they are perfect to beautifully plate up your festive dinner. Flexible living space As a communal space where families gather for conversation and relaxation, the living room is witness to a large part of the daily routine. It also needs to be versatile so you can quickly rearrange it if you want to play a game of chess or watch a movie. Light, easily moveable and multifunctional items are your best bet. For example, the Bead Sofa freely molds its shape to fit your body and can be adjusted for lying down or sitting. The sofa arrives as a simple seating solution for when you have unexpected guests, it’s versatile and can be easily moved to where it’s needed. After use, the covers can be removed and washed. Everything in its place It’s very stressful to be surrounded by clutter all the time. Find a home for everything and store it there when not in use. The MUJI storage system boxes come in several sizes and materials that can be nested, stacked, and combined in myriad ways because they’re

based on the same module. Favoring unfinished or natural materials—like rattan, linen, unbleached cotton, bare metal—and subdued colors for harmonious living spaces. Mix and match MUJI's modular storage solutions. Be creative, express your style by designing your own unique space. Rest well If you are not sleeping well, there is no way you can function properly. The right mattress can truly change your life. With soft and natural colors, MUJI’s bedroom furniture creates a calming backdrop where you can recharge. The design of the Pocket Coil Mattress distributes body weight evenly across the surface and minimizes sinking and movement, for a night of restful sleep without disruptions. While the Storage Bed provides ample storage space to minimize clutter.

Breathe Our sense of smell can trigger memories of peace and happiness. Help yourself get into any mood by using the MUJI Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser. It is perfect for relaxation or even to stimulate your senses during work or studying hours. It silently diffuses natural aromas throughout your home. Switch the lamp on for a calming ambient glow, it’s easy to clean and use. The diffuser works best with MUJI’s essential oils, 100% pure and natural. From citrusy scents like lemongrass and bergamot that will rejuvenate you, to bedtime favorites like lavender, you will find an oil for every occasion. Visit the MUJI store in Phase 2, Grand Avenue – The Avenues and Al Kout Mall. For more information, follow MUJI on Instagram @mujimiddleeast.

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INTERMITENT FASTING

Eating only during a 10-hour window improved health for those with metabolic syndrome By Melissa Healy

What if a clock did a better job than a scale at promoting weight loss, improving sleep and preventing diabetes? New research suggests it's about time to consider that possibility. In an early effort to explore the benefits of daily fasting in humans, researchers have found that people who are at high risk of developing diabetes improved their health in myriad ways when they ate all of their meals over a span of just over 10 hours, then fasted for the remainder of their 24-hour day. The regimen, called "time-restricted eating," is a variant of "intermittent fasting", a practice growing in popularity. To lose weight or improve health, those fasting intermittently don't eat, or follow a spartan diet that mimics fasting for a day or more every week or month. Time-restricted eating, by contrast, limits a person to consuming all of his or her daily calories in a relatively narrow window (say, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm). Practiced daily, time-restricted eating

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widens the period during which the body's major visceral organs are put into a state of rest and recovery. Ample research has shown that erratic eating patterns, shiftwork, and modern-day habits like get-up-and-go breakfasts and midnight snacks have contributed to obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Satchidananda Panda, a biologist at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, said that by establishing a consistent daily cycle of feeding and fasting, one might realign the ebb and flow of fuel intake with the body's natural circadian rhythms. "Every cell, every organ has its clock, and every organ needs downtime to repair, reset and regain its rhythm," Panda said. "When all your organs have rested and rejuvenated every day, they just work well," he added. "It's almost like an orchestra: when all the musical instruments are in tune, and work well together, it's a melody, not a cacophony of sounds." For the new research, Panda and his colleagues measured what happened when 19 people were asked to do all their eating during a 10-hour window

every day for 12 weeks. The participants were allowed to choose their own 10-hour window, and could vary it slightly, say, if they had an early breakfast meeting one day or a late dinner on another. All the study's subjects had a condition known as metabolic syndrome. Sometimes called "prediabetes," metabolic syndrome makes a person five times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, and it doubles her/his risk of developing cardiovascular disease within five years. The condition is diagnosed when a patient tests positive for three or more of the following conditions: obesity, high blood pressure, problematic cholesterol, impaired metabolic function and excessive waist circumference (an indicator of abdominal fat). Three in 10 Americans are thought to have metabolic syndrome. To ward it off, doctors have little to offer beyond exercising more, eating less and losing weight. But patients often ignore or abandon that medical advice and go on to develop full-blown type 2 diabetes. In the pilot study, the participants limited their "eating day" to under 11 hours for 12 weeks. They

EXPERIENCE TURKEY WITH THE ESSENCE OF KUWAIT BY BADER ALSHAYJI

sutis

The Avenues, Souk | The Gate Mall

reduced their calorie intake by almost 9%, lost an average of 3% of their body weight, and reported more restful sleep. All improvements that could aid in disrupting a patient's progression from metabolic syndrome to diabetes. As a group, participants reduced their belly fat, a bellwether of future heart disease risk by 3%. Drilling down on the physiological effects of a daily 14-hour fast, researchers also found a wide range of subtler improvements among the 19 subjects. The group's blood pressure, typically high in those with pre-diabetes, fell. Their cholesterol readings, typically worrisome in this population, improved. And in the 12 participants whose metabolic function had already veered into abnormal territory, three months of time-restricted eating appeared to bring about improvements in two key health measures: fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c. These changes came about without any increase in participants' physical activity. And improvements didn't rise or fall with changes in weight. Timerestricted eating did induce weight loss, which typically improves many bodily functions. But it appeared to effect key changes in direct ways, rather than just by helping subjects slim down. In several cases, participants were able to discontinue or take smaller doses of medications, such as cholesterol-lowering statins or hypertension drugs. In other instances, researchers saw that shortening their eating day and observing a long nightly fast helped patients who were not sufficiently

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helped by medication alone to achieve normal readings. The results were published in the journal Cell Metabolism. None of these promising findings is definitive: with only 19 participants and no control group, the work merely lays the foundation for further investigation. But a much larger clinical trial that meets the gold standard of biomedical research is already in the works. Underwritten by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, that trial will also explore the benefits of daily fasting in people with metabolic syndrome. The researchers who conducted the pilot study were buoyed by its preliminary findings, but even more excited by evidence that the study's 19 participants were both willing and able to follow the regimen, often well beyond the 12-week scope of the study. All 19 subjects (3 women and 16 men) were able to maintain a regular habit of fasting between 13 and 14 hours a day for about six days a week, on average. The timing of their meals became more regular. And they didn't skip breakfast _ a shortcut that research suggests could have negative health effects. They were not instructed or urged to continue this pattern of eating after the study was done. But when researchers followed up with the participants about 15 months after the intervention had ended, they discovered that five continued to follow the

eating schedules they had adopted in the study. Seven others said they were either limiting their eating window a little less stringently or following their time-restricted eating schedule on a part-time basis. The remaining seven said they had followed the regimen for an average of just over four months before it fell by the wayside. Dieting fails most severely due to lack of patient adherence. But daily fasting may make it easier for people at increased risk for diabetes and heart disease to succeed, experts said. "These are patients at the tipping point for diabetes," said Dr. Pam R. Taub, a UC San Diego cardiologist and co-author of the new research. "This is a very critical window where you can reverse the disease process." But Taub said "The same old spiel. Get more exercise, reduce your calories, try a plant-based diet" has proven frustrating for both her and her patients. "Most people just don't sustain it, and year after year, things are getting worse for them," said Taub, whose patients were among the participants. "So what was really exciting was that here was a lifestyle strategy where all I asked them to do was change the time of their eating." They did, and their health improved.

Photo by Thuan Pham on Unsplash.

the vegan

TOURISTS BEWARE Know the rules of Rome By Kerri Westenberg

When I traveled to Rome in March, I enjoyed a few moments of relaxation on the Spanish Steps, which run 138 rungs between the Spanish square and the hilltop Trinita dei Monti church. Tourists have done the same since before Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant dallied on the iconic 18th century stairway in Roman Holiday. My stop there felt nearly obligatory and entirely pleasant. But the Roman government is not so pleased. It recently passed a law that makes sitting on the Spanish Steps punishable by up to 400 euros. Gone are the selfie-taking preening teens, the cigarettesmoking loafers, the exhausted tourists just trying to catch their breath even as they relish one of the imperative sightseeing spots of Rome. The current look of the Spanish Steps devoid of loungers may look odd to anyone who has seen the steps in movies or photos over the years. People have been hanging out there for centuries, after all. But I appreciate the impulse. The mayor and City Council are struggling to protect their historical landmarks, as are leaders of many of Europe's cultural capitals. At least Rome hasn't closed the steps or offered timed entry, as is the case with Barcelona's Park Guell, designed by architect Antoni Gaudi. The Eternal City is filled with more culturally significant sights than most. And it has been attempting to preserve its gems for years. The city made it illegal years ago to roll wheeled bags down the steps of its monuments. The new law also prohibits wading in the city's fountains. (I presume the woman I saw splash into the fountain at the base of the Spanish Steps would be forgiven; she fell in while taking a photo.) The law may aim to discourage bad behavior by tourists, but it's also helping tourists help themselves by preserving the very sights they travel to see. bazaar editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: Travelling is a privilege and a luxury. Making sure that these beautiful historical and heritage landmarks are still standing is something that we can all do together. Leave everyone and everything better than how you found it.

Photo by Ilnur Kalimullin on Unsplash.

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FAST-FIRED IN 180 SECONDS

blaze pizza

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TODOS SANTOS

Beach scenery and a small-town vibe By Christopher Reynolds

Todos Santos, a small Mexican town on Baja California's Pacific coast about 50 miles north of Los Cabos, is the destination for people who don't plan to haul in marlin or get rowdy in Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo. Many hotels, restaurants and shops have opened in recent years, so it's not as quiet as it once was. But it's calmer than Los Cabos and has plenty of good food, greenery, beach scenery and more than a few American expats. On a three-night stay in October I ate well, browsed several art galleries, and watched hatchling sea turtles creep into the sea. I also savored big views from Los Colibris Casitas, the hillside lodging where I stayed two nights. The tab: about $645 for a roundtrip flight from Los Angeles to Los Cabos and rental car; about $180 for one night at the Todos Santos Inn; $270 for two nights at Los Colibris Casitas; and $250 for meals. 126

THE BED You might bounce a bit on the mile of unpaved road leading to Los Colibris Casitas, but the payoff is spectacular: a verdant hillside property with ocean views, a handsome pool, attentive hosts, a menagerie of resident cats and dogs, and six guest units with kitchens. If you'd rather sleep in the center of town (as I did the first night), the brick-walled Todos Santos Inn is a pleasant, atmospheric choice. THE MEAL I tried two of the town's biggest splurges, beginning with Jazamango, operated by popular Baja chef Javier Plascencia. My dinner there was good, but I was happier at El Mirador, a towering, oceanfront palapa where my arrachera (skirt steak) was much zestier than you might expect from a view-dominated restaurant. The couple two tables over got engaged while I sipped my beer and the palms rustled in the breeze. THE FIND Three species of embattled sea turtles lay eggs on the area's beaches. In fall and winter, the charity

Grupo Tortuguero collects and incubates eggs. Most evenings at sunset from early December through late February, volunteer leader Enedino Castillo, his son Dario, and their comrades set free hatchling sea turtles and invite visitors to watch and perhaps contribute to the cause. Most of the turtles will die young, Dario Castillo told me, but the hardiest will live decades (nobody is sure exactly how long) and grow to 100 pounds. The hatchling releases happen at Las Playitas, the beach at the foot of Camino Internacional. THE LEARNED LESSON There's no substitute for local cash. On my last night, I tried dinner at Il Giardino atop a hill at the edge of town. My meal (prosciutto pizza) was tremendous, but neither the menu nor my waitress warned me that Il Giardino accepts no credit cards. When the bill came, I was 40 pesos (about $2) short and had to beg the waitress to accept a few dollars. Though most tourist-oriented businesses in and around Todos Santos accept plastic (and some take dollars), it's risky to assume. Next time I'll ask before ordering and keep more pesos in my pocket.

promenade

DISPLAYS OF POWER Capturing attention By Ainsley Harris

When Greenville, South Carolina, native Aki Carpenter was in fifth grade, she visited the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. "I remember feeling how physical the narrative felt," she says. Now, nearly three decades later, she works as a design director and associate for Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA), the firm responsible for creating the interior spaces of that groundbreaking museum and dozens of others around the world. Carpenter, who has led 12 award-winning projects, oversaw the creative direction and exhibition design for the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), which opened in 2016 on the National Mall, and today is playing a similar role for the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Here, she shares her playbook for capturing--and holding--people's attention. CHANNEL EMOTION Even after working on the NMAAHC for six years, Carpenter still gets emotional when she visits. "I can't go without crying. It's extremely meaningful to me, and to this country," she says. The design for the museum, which starts three levels belowground with exhibits about slavery and transitions into a celebration of African American culture as visitors climb higher, posed a challenge: "How do we navigate this, knowing it's a pilgrimage for many people?" Carpenter's answer was to use "dark, deep" colors in the underground galleries, and then embrace rich, bright hues like goldenrod as the galleries build toward present day. By the time visitors enter the section on cultural expressions, she says, they encounter an "explosion of color." The design team also had to find ways to warn visitors about potentially disturbing exhibits, such as Emmett Till's casket. "I cannot express the amount of thought and effort that went into how to properly do that," she says. With input from the curators, they decided to use red borders as a visual warning on certain displays. KEEP IT TIMELESS Museum designs have to last for decades. Trendy fonts and media formats can quickly look dated. As visitors move through the NMAAHC, the colors and fonts reflect the stories and artifacts on display, tying design to the content rather than "pure aesthetics." The typography, for example, gets bolder and more contemporary as the visitor

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climbs. "You can't future forecast, so it's really coming up with a visual identity that can stand on its own," Carpenter says of her approach. To keep the museum feeling cohesive while still charting more than 400 years of history, Carpenter selected NMAAHC's fonts from a single typeface, created by African American designer Joshua Darden. "It may be unseen to the non-design eye, but there's consistency within that typeface, even though we're telling different stories," she says. ADAPT TO THE SETTING To commemorate Nelson Mandela Day in 2009, Carpenter served as a graphic designer for a temporary exhibition in New York's Grand Central Terminal. There, unlike at a museum, Carpenter and her teammates had to find a way to draw in harried and weary commuters. Taking inspiration from the station's warmly glowing chandeliers, they created a series of giant, colorful light boxes and positioned them at angles throughout the soaring Vanderbilt Hall. "We wanted to illuminate," she says. From a distance, the displays showed a series of 8-foot-tall words (act, learn, unite, and lead), which, on closer inspection, were made up of smaller narrative texts about Mandela's life. Carpenter and her team also invited passersby to interact with the exhibit by writing notes about what they'd do to change the

world directly on some of the boxes. The exhibition struck a careful balance: harmoniously echoing the architectural environment while piquing visitors' curiosity. ENGAGE YOUR AUDIENCE Designers who work on museums often refer to visitors in three categories, depending on the pace at which they move--streakers (people who beeline for just a few highlights), strollers (those who follow the curators' narrative), and studiers (who scrutinize every last detail). For the Obama Presidential Center, Carpenter has been thinking about another category that's perhaps the most demanding: children. "[President Obama] is always asking about what the younger audiences are doing," says Carpenter, "what's fun for them, what's cool for them." In the finished museum, a life-size replica of the Oval Office will invite children to sit behind the former president's desk and imagine themselves as leaders. The goal of the center's immersive, handson experiences, Carpenter says, will be to inspire visitors of all ages, but particularly kids, to return to their communities and "create positive change."

Photo by Chris Nguyen on Unsplash.

MAC

MAKI MARCHES ON AND ON Experience the twist on Japanese flavors with Chef Daisuke Yoshizaki By bazaar staff

Every time we ask anyone about Maki, you instantly see the ultimate love within their eyes. Maki has always been and remains one of the restaurants in Kuwait that continues to keep its unbreakable consistency, and quality of Japanese cuisine. With the addition of a new Executive Chef, the restaurant’s commitment to introduce traditional, as well as fusion-based dishes is growing more than ever! Chef Daisuke Yoshizaki has been in K-town for over two months. He has already started his mission

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in experimenting with dishes. As he says, “My target and goal is to share my knowledge, my traditional skills, and my experience. To [create a higher] standard of cooking techniques that I would like to implement at Maki. I want to try some new dishes, and introduce Japanese culture.” Chef Daisuke’s background, along with his expertise are bound to elevate the food experience at Maki. His father was in fact a chef too, who worked at a hotel in Hokkaido, Japan. Chef Daisuke grew up in a culinary environment, and observed the non-stop hustle of being a chef. “I became curious about this job,” he says, “So, that is the reason why I wanted to be a chef. I told my father after graduating school that I want to be a chef, so [he] sent me to a restaurant and I started my career.” He was formally trained in Japan in the very

traditional town of Kyoto. He was only 18-yearsold when he first started at a small restaurant that only seated 20 people. Now that Chef Daisuke has made his way to Maki, a restaurant everyone holds dear to their hearts, he would like to introduce more contemporary dishes, but in a traditional way. “I would try a twist, but not too far away, to show that I’m Japanese, [that] this is traditional but with a little twist. If I twist too much you wouldn’t know what this dish is,” he says. What makes Maki special, we believe as well as Chef Daisuke, is the maki rolls culture. Along with the staff, who have been working there for more than ten years, and with their skills, they know how to make the best maki rolls out there. Maki’s menu is full of options that will appeal to anyone lunching or dining at

one of their locations. One look at the menu, and you’ll find several specialized categories for maki, from Nori (seaweed) Maki, Mame (soy bean) Maki, to Ume (plum) Maki and the delicious servings of Olive and Tomato Wrap, which includes our personal favorite dish, Athari Maki. A new line that has also been added on the menu is the Shiso Taquitos. Some of Chef Daisuke’s favorite dishes are the ones that include these two key ingredients, tofu and soya bean. The Cold Tofu Salad for example, as well as the Miso Shiitake Kale Soup are two dishes worth giving a try, if you still haven’t! Another dish that's been recentley created is the Lena Maki, which is surprisingly plant based. Chef Daisuke believes that one of the most important things at Maki is to keep the consistency on the quality of the dishes they serve flawless. “So many who often come to the restaurant, I'm sure they’re looking for more consistency,” he says. When we asked Chef Daisuke about the most challenging thing he’s encountered since he came to Kuwait, he smiled and said that everything is challenging. “Chef life is always challenging, that is the exciting [part] of the chef life, the challenge strengthens you, so that’s good for me.” Now, what are you waiting for?! Grab your keys, and go for a visit to Maki. Re-experience the joy of eating at Maki all over again, or be enlightened by the unique flavors that Chef Daisuke will surely serve. Maki has four locations in Kuwait – The M2 in Salhiya (2247 9720); The Avenues (2259 7120), Marina Waves (2576 3226) and Burj Jassem, (2290 1010). Visit www.olivemaki.com for more information, call 182 3080 for delivery. Watch the innovation on Instagram @Makirest and Facebook at MakiRestaurant. Images taken by bazaar Studios.

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live like the 1%

CURTISS HADES 1 PURE

AUDEMARS PIGUET HAUTE JOAILLERIE SAPPHIRE ORBE

KADUPUL BLOOM

REMBRANDT PENDANT PORTRAITS

ATTIMO CHOCOLATE

SIGNATURE VILLAS PALM JUMEIRAH

Nothing whisperss Valentine's like the gift of an electric bike with an iconic skeletal design by Curtiss Motorcycles. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security, while these puritans may have changed their name from Confederate to Curtiss, this Alabama bike still has a bit of a triple-Kick with 217 electrically powered equine thoroughbreds running the engine. All aluminum, titanium and carbon fiber this beauty is perfect to burn up Kuwait roads, and your thighs if you park in direct sunlight while charging. We advise taking out extra life insurance as it’s not just the bike that will be heading to Hades if you refuse to wear your helmet simply because you have your hair perfectly coiffed. A KD 25,000 investment on a potentially unlimited insurance windfall!

If your loved one can stop pouting for a moment and overlook the fact that you’ve not purchased them the world’s most expensive painting, (Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvatore Mundi) then perhaps they will still appreciate you spending only KD 54,700,200 on these two paintings which must never be separated. The romance of it all! These pendant portraits of Maerten Soolmans and Oopjen Coppit by the 17th Century Dutch master were commissioned to celebrate the wedding of the couple in 1634. This work left the commissioning family in the Nineteenth Century, being snapped up by the Rothschilds. If you want to buy Rothchild sloppy seconds, you’ll have to approach both the Louvre and the Rijksmuseum as they had to go halfsies.

It takes more than 1050 hours of fine craftsmanship to create this gem set timepiece. That gives some skilled craftsman KD 290 an hour, not a bad rate. The price of this Haute Joaillerie unique creation is barely worth mentioning at a teensy tiny (like the diamonds) KD 305,000. When the orange sapphire dial is exposed, the timepiece looks like the glaring eye of a rabid Ornithomimus, but when the dial is hidden resembles Russian dolled eggs given the Damian Hirst treatment. The real gift here is that the PR department managed to convince someone that graded colors of sapphire have a high value, when in fact, like black diamonds they are practically worthless. This is 47.2mm of gaudy timepiece; perfect as a joke gift for your loved one on Valentine’s Day.

For Valentine’s day, how about a gift of the most expensive chocolate in the world at a tasty KD 2491 per kilo from Attimo Chocolate Zurich, Switzerland. The ingredients include saffron grown in the Swiss village Mund, crystallized orange crisps and Grand Cru 68% Chuao chocolate from Venezuela. The cocoa has been cultivated for the last four hundred years but still those four centuries have provided only ten kilos of cocoa; enough to make a trifling fifty bars of Attimo. It’s the saffron at 9390 KD a kilo that amps up the cost of the sweet treat. Alain Mettler who created the chocolate says that the chocolate with its many layers of flavor can be compared to a fine wine. Easier said than done, in Kuwait!

This single flower bares no price tag, but for the 1% with our sense of entitlement “priceless” is no object. In the wild, this bloom has an extremely short lifespan lasting only overnight. Never one to shy of cutting a short, spectacular life even shorter, the very richest can present the Kadupul flower to their “Queen of the Night”, as long as they make sure to reap the rewards a gift like this demands, within a few a hours, as that’s only as long as the flower will last once picked. Only once all the buds are revealed does the Kadupul release its fragrance. The flower blossoming happens on a monthly basis, on full moon days and one shrub can emit an impressive one hundred flowers. Order your bouquet today!

Nothing spells Valentine’s getaway more than having a little bolt hole in Dubai. Keep it for your special date night or just for when you’re attending the latest Rihanna or Eminem concert. At just under KD 20 million and 50,000 sq ft, and with more than enough room for 16 in staff accommodation, this one-of-a kind villa offers as much luxury as a ground floor dwelling can. No accounting for taste, there’s a 16-seat cinema, perhaps keep that for the use of the help, and the expansive property offers ideal spaces for entertaining. Make like it’s your own private Studio 54, with a private discotheque which fits 200 sweaty bodies. Cool off by jumping in the indoor swimming pool or run into the waters that surround this beach front property.

THIS MONTH’S FEATURE: CALIBRE R822 PREDATOR Who would have thought that a belt buckle could actually be a work of art? No one ever, would be the answer to that. What's even more surprising than trying to pass off this gaudy piece of engineering as art, is the fact that the Caliber R822 Predator is the most expensive belt buckle in the world with a price tag of KD 133,000. This stunning, in so many ways, buckle is from Roland Iten and is more of a piece of mechanical jewelry than a belt buckle. If you ever needed to send the message to your lover that the number of diamonds worn on a belt is inversely proportionate to the inches of your love muscle, and that that ‘predator’ probably also needs a bit of artificial help, then this gem set buckle is the choicest of Valentine’s gifts for your man! Source: uncrate.com, luxatic.com, serenataflowers.com, wealthygorilla.com, guinnessworldrecords.com, sothebysrealty.com

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Coke

GRAND LIMO Sit back and enjoy being chauffeured in style By bazaar staff

There are two types of people in life. People who drive around for hours looking for a parking spot, get stuck in traffic and end up in fits of road rage. And then, there are smart people who arrive at their destination feeling relaxed and ready to conquer the world as the car door is open for them, because they ordered a Grand Limo.

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Whether you have a business meeting in the heart of Kuwait City mid-week at 2 pm, are going out with friends for a night on the town or are traveling with your family and need an airport ride, Grand Limo can exponentially improve your experience. The trusted service has been driving people around Kuwait for a while and is constantly updating their service to ensure that every ride is perfect. They recently introduced brand new GMC Yukons to the fleet. All you need is the app that is available for iOS and Android. The first time you use the app you will register using your mobile phone, no need to create and remember a complicated password. Once you are done, booking a car is seamless and intuitive using the app. If you happen to need any assistance, you can contact the 24-hour customer hotline directly by calling or using WhatsApp. There are four classes to choose from; Grand, Business, Family and Luxury. The Grand Class is perfect for anyone. You can either get a Chevrolet Impala, or a Honda Odyssey if your traveling party is larger. Grand Limo has a base fare, which covers the first ten minutes for all the classes except the Luxury which is 30 minutes. After that, you will be charged only for the remaining minutes of your ride. Their billing structure is transparent and easy to understand. Business riders will enjoy the Chrysler 300 and families will be happy to know that they can book a GMC Yukon. If you want to arrive in style, order a Luxury Class car. You deserve to be chauffeured around town in a Mercedes Benz S400 or a Cadillac Escalade. Regardless of your choice, all of the cars in the fleet are classy black and have tinted windows for privacy and comfort, making it so easy to enjoy the ride while ignoring the world. The app has numerous functions that streamline your experience including favorite locations, trip notes, driver live GPS tracking and an electronic wallet to name a few. The highly trained customer service team will take the time to explain how to use any of the features on the app, the booking process and even set up daily routes with specific note requests. Grand Limo understands that different customers have different requirements and work to accommodate individual needs. There are different booking types too. Normally most of us will need the “As Soon as Possible”, unless you are a planner and know that you will need a “Pickup Later”, which might actually land you an upgrade to a higher class if a vehicle is unavailable. For the glamorous jet setters, the “Airport Pickup/Dropoff” is a lifesaver. Not only do they monitor flights for early and delayed arrivals, the driver waits for you inside the airport to assist you with your luggage. On days when you might have multiple errands, the “Hourly” booking allows you to select the number of hours you need the

vehicle for. Grand Limo offers many automatic discounts when you book so check the app to find out for yourself how much it will cost. For people with regular routes and times, it might even be better if you contact Grand Limo for a monthly package. They have many regular customers that use their service every day to get to and from work and their customer care representatives can better direct you how to arrange something like that. Your comfort is of the utmost importance for the company, so eating and smoking are not allowed in any of the cars. This means that you will enjoy a clean, polished ride, every time. The drivers are also trained to be courteous and polite and will not engage in idle chit chat or conversation, so you can use the time of the ride to catch up on work or binge on Netflix.

Paying is a breeze too. When you arrive to your destination, your driver can accept cash, K-Net, Credit Card or the money preloaded into your virtual wallet as payment. This latter is hassle-free and quick. Instead of fumbling with cards as you try to disembark from your ride, you can do it in a single screen tap. Time and energy are finite resources and we appreciate services like Grand Limo that help us save both of them, so we can spend them pursuing the things that bring us joy.

Download Grand Limo on the Google Play or Apple iTunes stores. For more information call 6630 7956 or follow them on Instagram or Facebook @Q8GrandLimo.

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bazaar music

ORIGINAL It’s February and that means we’re already halfway through awards season! We’re almost reaching the one night Hollywood always hypes up, that of the golden statue, The Oscars. Now, there’s always some type of controversy when it comes to the selected nominees, everyone wants their favorites awarded the biggest prize, while some of us are gutted that some films, albums, scores, and songs were robbed (Yes, we are hinting at The Lion King, don’t @ us). But, here are some of the nominees that made it to the list of Best Original Score and Best Original Song over the years!

THROWBACK THURSDAYS

ATONEMENT

THE HATEFUL EIGHT By Ennio Morricone

By Hildur Guðnadóttir

In 2008, Marianelli won the Oscar for the film version of Ian McEwan’s heartbreaking novel Atonement. The score is widely recognized due to its unconventional and intense use of the sound of a vintage typewriter, a key element within the film. It is first heard within the first track “Briony”, moving towards the sound of a solo piano, and from then on it picks up beautifully.

In 2016, the well-known and incredible 91-yearold composer took his first ever Academy Award in Best Original Score for Quentin Tarentino’s film The Hateful Eight. After five previous nominations, Ennio Morricone sets proof that it truly is never too late to grab an Oscar no matter how old or young you might be, even with more than 500 composed films up his sleeve!

In 2019, composer Hildur swept the music scene off the ground with her groundbreaking score of the film Joker. Who could ever recall the bathroom scene without remembering the piece she amazingly composed and is titled “Bathroom Dance”, unforgettable and highly disturbing due to the sound of the violin. That piece alone might actually land her the Oscar in 2020.

By Dario Marianelli

JOKER

COLLAB CRUSH

GLORY

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

SKYFALL

By John Legend & Common

By Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross

By Adele Adkins & Paul Epworth

In 2015, the song “Glory” from the emotional film Selma which was directed by Ava Duvernay won the Oscar for Best Original Song. The performance by the two artists with a whole choir alone during that year was remarkable, and everyone took a stand to applaud the excellence of it all. Glory was destined to them, and the story was welcomed with victory.

In 2011, both Trent and Atticus won the Oscar for Best Original Score, beating two major composers that year; Hans Zimmer, nominated for Inception, and Alexandre Desplat for The King’s Speech. The largely electronic score came perfectly handin-hand with the dramatic film; directed by David Fincher. From the tracks “In Motion” to “Magnetic”, the score was indeed, incredibly composed.

In 2013, Adele who wrote the theme song with producer Paul took the Oscar home for the 007 film which to this day, is considered the best Bond film. Skyfall was directed by Sam Mendes, as the theme song echoes the narrative, it also carries the same name of the Bond film, which has not been done since Madonna’s “Die Another Day” back in 2002.

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Sources: oscars.go.com

trolley

HAVE A HAPPY BIRTHDAY AT KIDZANIA Give your child the gift of excitement, learning and fun By bazaar staff

Throwing a kids’ birthday party is becoming progressively more difficult and challenging. Thinking of a theme, matching the cake with the decorations and filling goodie bags with fun usable trinkets that won’t be thrown away before your guests even get home, while fun, can cost you unnecessary hours. That’s even if you have the space to host a group of excitable little ones who just want to run around and scream instead of play the games you very thoughtfully created, designed and built out of foam blocks. We are sure that your Pinterest-inspired fête is Instagram worthy, but for a truly immersive experience for the kids, you need a KidZania party. 138

There are different packages to choose from to suit your needs and budget. The Basic Package includes free entry for the birthday child and three accompanying adults, 15 party guests, a birthday cake or cupcakes, drinks and lots of games and activities. The birthday boy or girl also gets a voucher that can be redeemed from the National Store for a gift of their own choosing. During the first hour of the two-hour event, the kids will enjoy competing in friendly challenges and play different games. The second hour is the celebrations, cake cutting, bus tour and more. After that kids can stay and enjoy KidZania until closing time. As a parent, it is a stress-free event because the well-trained staff supervise and ensure that the kids have a lot of fun. The special security bracelets also mean that the kids can’t leave unless they are collected by their parent or guardian. They get all the freedom of exploring KidZania and you are spared all the worrying. The kid-sized metropolis gives children the opportunity to create their own adventure every single time they visit as they try out different jobs, roles and activities. The KidZania fun is multiplied when travelled with a group of friends. We have seen kids try out different activities over and over, each time enjoying it as if it were completely new. If you want to invite more guests, the Deluxe Package has got you covered. With this option, you can invite 20 kids, get a tour bus parade and food and gift vouchers redeemable from the National Gift Store for all of the guests too. The birthday child and three accompanying adults are granted entry for free. The real magic of KidZania is how it allows children to experience the world. They learn that they need to work together and collaborate for things to happen. And that they can find new interests whether it is baking or archeology, which they might have otherwise missed. The Epic Party Package option offers you even more fun. More guests, a piñata, photo coverage, a bigger cake, an extended tour bus parade, popcorn, gift vouchers for all guests that are redeemable from the National Gift Store and so much more. This option includes free entry for five adults in addition to the birthday child. The packages are also customizable. There are several add-ons you can add separately like popcorn, cotton candy, photo coverage and extra RightZKeeper appearances. The parties can also be themed upon request. KidZania have thought of everything to make your life easier. You can contact them through WhatsApp directly for easier communication. They can provide you with e-invitations instead of cards for convenience too. A birthday party is an opportunity to celebrate the joy your child brings into your life, their interests and their friends. Letting KidZania do it for you allows you to focus on the important things that matter. KidZania Kuwait is located at The Mall – The Avenues. For more information on KidZania’s Birthday Party packages visit kuwait.kidzania.com, call 2228 3180, WhatsApp 9093 0917 or follow them on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook @KidZaniaKuwait. 139

bazaar books

EVERYTHING I KNOW ABOUT LOVE by Dolly Alderton, Non-Fiction

THINGS IN JARS by Jess Kidd, Fantasy, Mystery

The wildly funny, occasionally heartbreaking, internationally bestselling memoir about growing up, growing older and learning to navigate friendships, jobs, loss, and love along the ride. When it comes to the trials and triumphs of becoming an adult, journalist and former Sunday Times columnist Dolly Alderton has seen and tried it all. She recounts falling in love, finding a job, getting drunk, getting dumped, realizing that Ivan from the corner shop might just be the only reliable man in her life, and that absolutely no one can ever compare to her best girlfriends. This book is about bad dates, good friends and—above all else— realizing that you are enough. Glittering with wit and insight, heart and humor, Dolly Alderton’s unforgettable debut weaves together personal stories, satirical observations, a series of lists, recipes, and other vignettes that will strike a chord of recognition with women of every age—making you want to pick up the phone and tell your best friends all about it.

Bridie Devine, female detective extraordinaire, is confronted with the most baffling puzzle yet: the kidnapping of Christabel Berwick, secret daughter of Sir Edmund Athelstan Berwick, and a peculiar child whose reputed supernatural powers have captured the unwanted attention of collectors trading curiosities in this age of discovery. Winding her way through the labyrinthine, sooty streets of Victorian London, Bridie won’t rest until she finds the young girl, even if it means unearthing a past that she’d rather keep buried. Her search is aided by an enchanting cast of characters, including a seven-foot tall housemaid; a melancholic, tattoocovered ghost; and an avuncular apothecary. But secrets abound in this foggy underworld where spectacle is king and nothing is quite what it seems. This is a spellbinding Gothic mystery that collapses the boundary between fact and fairy tale and explores what it means to be human in inhumane times.

BEHIND EVERY LIE

THE QUEEN'S ASSASSIN

by Melissa de la Cruz, Fantasy

by Christina McDonanld, Thriller

A thrilling new suspense novel about the insidious nature of family secrets…and their deadly potential. If you can’t remember it, how do you prove you didn’t do it? Eva Hansen wakes up in the hospital after being struck by lightning and discovers her mother, Kat, has been murdered. Eva was found unconscious down the street. She can’t remember what happened but the police are highly suspicious of her. To find some answers Eva heads from Seattle to London, where Kat used to live, for answers. But as she unravels her mother’s carefully held secrets, Eva soon realizes that someone doesn’t want her to know the truth. And with violent memories beginning to emerge, Eva doesn’t know who to trust. Least of all herself. Told in alternating perspectives from Eva’s search for answers and Kat’s mysterious past, Christina McDonald has crafted another complex, emotionally intense domestic thriller.

Caledon Holt is the Kingdom of Renovia's deadliest weapon. No one alive can beat him in brawn or brains, which is why he's the Guild's most dangerous member and the Queen's one and only assassin. He's also bound to the Queen by an impossible vow—to find the missing Deian Scrolls, stolen years ago by a nefarious sect called the Aphrasians. Shadow has been training all her life to follow in the footsteps of her mother and aunts--to become skilled enough to join the ranks of the Guild. Though magic has been forbidden since the Aphrasian uprising, Shadow has been learning to control her powers in secret, hoping that one day she'll become an assassin as feared and revered as Caledon Holt. When a surprise attack brings Shadow and Cal together, they're forced to team up as assassin and apprentice to hunt down a new sinister threat to Renovia. They uncover a shocking web of lies and secrets that may destroy everything they hold dear.

A GOOD NEIGHBORHOOD

by Therese Anne Fowler, Fiction

In Oak Knoll, tight-knit North Carolina neighborhood, professor of forestry and ecology Valerie Alston-Holt is raising her bright and talented biracial son. Xavier is headed to college in the fall, and after years of single parenting, Valerie is facing the prospect of an empty nest. All is well until the Whitmans move in next door-an apparently traditional family with new money, ambition, and a secretly troubled teenaged daughter. Thanks to his thriving local business, Brad Whitman is something of a celebrity around town, and he's made a small fortune on his customer service and charm, while his wife, Julia, escaped her trailer park upbringing for the security of marriage and homemaking. Their new house is more than she ever imagined for herself, and who wouldn't want to live in Oak Knoll? With little in common except a property line, these two very different families quickly find themselves at odds.

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YES NO MAYBE SO

by Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed, Young Adult

Jamie Goldberg is cool with volunteering for his local state senate candidate—as long as he’s behind the scenes. When it comes to speaking to strangers (or, let’s face it, speaking at all to almost anyone), Jamie’s a choke artist. There’s no way he’d ever knock on doors to ask people for their votes… until he meets Maya. Maya Rehman is having the worst Ramadan ever. Her best friend is too busy to hang out, her summer trip is canceled, and now her parents are separating. Why her mother thinks the solution to her problems is political canvassing— with some awkward dude she hardly knows— is beyond her. Going door to door isn’t exactly glamorous, but maybe it’s not the worst thing in the world. After all, the polls are getting closer—and so are Maya and Jamie. Mastering local activism is one thing. While, navigating the cross-cultural romance of the century is another thing entirely. Source: www.amazon.com

shake shack

HALA FEBRUARY FUN! Enjoy a variety of activities from Fantasy World for the national holiday By bazaar staff

The long weekend is almost upon us! The streets are already filling up with celebratory decorations for the National and Liberation day holidays, as everyone starts to raise their Kuwaiti flags, and prepares for the heartwarming celebrations, the gatherings will surely be on their way too. During this time, coming up with fun activities to share with family and friends of all ages is a must, and Fantasy World has got us covered on that part! From classical and timeless board games like Monopoly, to bonding and working on smart tactics for the mission of building Legos, or simply getting creative and craftsy with a collection of Play-Doh. Fantasy World has all that and more, just enough to get you even more excited for the joyful holiday. PLAYING BY THE RULES Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all had to deal with certain conflicts when it comes to playing a classical board game like Monopoly, and that is actually the fun part about it. To this day, the board game is in fact one of Fantasy Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best sellers. It first emerged on the scene back in 1903 and was created by Lizzie Magie in the US. It is amazingly still going strong throughout the decades! Having to deal with instant transactions, and now with the game ultimately and successfully evolving to a cashless gameplay with event cards, property values rising and falling with the

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sheer luck of a rolling dice never gets old. It’s a board game that is suitable for all ages and is always a great play during gatherings. BUILDING LEGOS The most perfect game to start during the holiday must be one of Lego’s multiple editions of Lego building. It all depends on your preference, whether you’d like ones from Disney characters, the Marvel Universe, the world of Star Wars to DC Heroes, Minecraft, NinjaGo and so many other versions. Lego's amazing transition from generic lego blocks to introducing their kingdom of different designs and themes into building cool things at Fantasy World; for ages starting from seven and above. None of us would want to miss out on the joyous chance of building and constructing our favorite Legos with our loved ones. Fun fact: if you ever happen to lose a block of Lego, no worries, you will find it by stepping on it barefoot in the middle of the night as they actually fit on any other edition over the years! CRAFTING WITH PLAY DOH An oldie is always a goodie. The Play-Doh modelling compound first came into the scene back in the 1930s. It was first manufactured as wallpaper cleaner, then the product was reworked and marketed for schools in Cincinnati during the mid 1950s for educational purposes, and today is the crafty material we all enjoy playing with. Play-Doh unleashes hidden talents, and imaginative spirits. With simple tools, colorful settings, and different themes you’ll be able to create awesome things. To go with the theme of Hala February, make a Kuwaiti flag for your upcoming gathering! OUTDOOR RIDES Make the most use out of the current beautiful weather in Kuwait and take a fun ride on one of Fantasy Worlds' Razor Drift Riders. With one twist of the throttle, the electric drift cycle will instantly zoom and place you on the zone. It’s 12 MPH forward speed offers the ultimate excitement with a 360-degree drift full of action. The versatile torque steering capabilities allow for unbelievable twists and spins. The pneumatic wheels provide a smoother road contact, and the dynamic speed with brakes is for better control. All you have to do is find a nice and safe open space, then hop onto one of the rides for a thrilling drift. The holidays are better when the fun activities and being pre-prepared, and that will be easily done once you head to one of Fantasy World’s stores to check out all the various options they have for your long weekend.

To learn more about Fantasy World, visit any of Fantasy World’s social media platforms: Instagram @Fantasyworldtoys, Facebook @FantasyWorldToysKuwait and YouTube: Fantasyworld Kuwait. Images courtesy of Fantasy World. 143

bazaar Apps

SOUND SKY

DICTATION BY BLUESHIFT

Phone games can be a great way to waste some time and distract your brain from the unpleasantness of life. Sound Sky takes it one step further, it is a meditative musical experience that can help relax you. Drum to the rhythm while the chill vibes soundtracks play in the background. There are over 50 levels, each with its own original, meditative soundtrack at various tempos with a rainbow of vibes. For the best experience, make sure to use headphones!

Taking notes and journaling is one way of preserving your thoughts but being able to just speak and have your phone or computer convert them into searchable text might be easier. It is like having your own personal assistant with you at all times. Dictation by Blueshift automatically transcribes spoken audio into text, entirely offline. You can directly record or import an already saved audio file. If English isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t your language, check if your native tongue is supported. Editing the audio is easy too.

EVERYDAY 2.0

MOJO

TINY THOUGHTS

STOP MOTION STUDIO

Get disciplined by doing something every day which helps you form new habits, as habits are what make you reach your goals. The more days you manage to chain in a row, the less likely you are to quit. Have a quick overview of your goals and streaks in a single beautiful board. Email reminders to help you build habits by making sure you don't skip days! The "don't skip twice in a row" reminder is particularly helpful, since in two days you can lose the progress of weeks.

tinythoughts is a one sentence a day journal. Journaling can help you remember important events in your life or think things through. Every day write 280 characters about your life. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be something huge, whatever comes to mind works. And you can easily look back at the end of the year to see what it was like. tinythoughts features include encryption, daily prompts, tagging and filtering, mood analysis, configurable daily reminders, and more!

Instastories have quickly become the best and fastest way to share stuff on Instagram, but they can get boring, real fast. Get out of your rut with Mojo, a quick and easy way to create awesome videos for your stories. The animated templates help you create customizable content that can be shared on any platform not just Instagram. New Templates and New Text Styles are added every month, so there is always going to be something new that works for you.

Want to create movies like Wallace and Gromit or those groovy Lego shorts on YouTube? Stop Motion Studio helps you to create terrific stop action movies with a whole host of unique features. The frame-by-frame editor, the never get lost timeline and the sound editor are all tools in your toolbox now. Quickly set In and Out points to mark a specific portion of your movie for playback and looping. Then use the loop playback to animate the sequence until it looks perfect.

play.google.com itunes.apple.com 144

STEAK DONE WELL

Well done isn’t the rule at Texas Roadhouse By bazaar staff

It is often the case in Kuwait, that if you ask someone how they like their steak the answer you get is “well done”. You may, on the rare occasion, even hear an adventurously toned, “I can take medium well”. This is a challenge for a steak restaurant. How can Texas Roadhouse ensure that a customer gets the best steak experience if their patrons only like steak cooked one way? Texas Roadhouse knows that because not every cut of meat should be cooked the same way it’s important to first ask customers, “How do you like your steak done?” This way the well-trained servers can point you in the direction of the steak which cooks best to your liking. If you like your steak rare, perhaps rib-eye with all its fatty marbling, isn’t the cut for you. But, this very same piece of meat will be deliciously juicy and buttery cooked longer on a hotter grill for medium well done. 146

All the Texas Roadhouse steaks are seared to seal in their natural juices which adds to the flavor of the grill-cooked steak that ends up on your plate. But even staff members who have served in the kitchens for years, can’t tell you exactly what’s the recipe of the Texas Roadhouse dry rub that adds even more taste and flavor to every cut of meat. It must be known however, that as good as the rub is, and the proffered advice of the knowledgeable servers excellent, Texas Roadhouse starts out with an incredible product to begin with. Of particular note to local customers is that the meat is 100% halal and from a facility that also conforms entirely to the strictest regulations to continually be awarded this vital certification. No other non-halal meats are ever on the premises. This also means that those sizzling juices seen in steaks cooked from rare to medium are entirely created through the cooking processes and is not indicative of blood. Here's the science bit: only muscle produces a red pigmented protein called myoglobin - the juice you see when slicing into your steak. This is why searing keeps steak succulent; it seals in the juices! Grain finishing is also designed

to deepen the red color of the beef, and whiten the marbling, so you may even get a touch of pinkness in a medium well done steak. So, it is the consistent quality of the 100% halal USDA, 90-day grain finished, 28-day aged US beef that keeps regular customers coming back for more, and delighting new customers when they step inside any Texas Roadhouse. Following the founding principles that all the Texas Roadhouse dishes should be made by hand, every steak is hand cut by Texas Roadhouse in local team of hand cutters. It takes real skill to be able to read a piece of meat for cutting. Like wood, you have to read the direction of the grain, feel the muscle, and these Texas Roadhouse hand cutters all have their own set of knives they prefer to work with. Each steak is carefully sculpted and carved out of the beef to provide the optimal steak experience to the steak restaurant customer. They also weigh to the gram to make sure your pre-cooked steak weight is exactly what you asked for. 18oz (510g) medium Texas T-bone, please! Texas Roadhouse invests a great deal of time in training the local team, and once they start training, there’s no guarantee of making

it to the end of this rigorous program. Only the very best, most skilled and hardy cutters make the grade. To ensure the product they work with maintains its quality throughout preparation, cutters work in an environment refrigerated to only 4 degrees Celsius! You would think the famous made-from-scratch sides wouldn’t require the same amount of dedication that Texas Roadhouse puts into plating your ideal steak, but the careful preparation starts in the kitchens each and every morning, long before the steak restaurant opens. The staff prepare the sides with the exact same hand-made commitment, making customer favorites like the butter rich sweetcorn, or loaded baked potato. And, these perfect potatoes are shipped, depending on the season, all the way from Idaho or Washington, because Texas Roadhouse hunted down the fluffiest most ideally suited potato for baking that you can get! Speaking of fluffy, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a bite into those famous Texas Roadhouse fresh baked bread (baked every five minutes in fact!), all shiny, hot and accompanied by the famous classic cinnamon butter. Don’t eat too many, because you’ll want to leave room to really enjoy the steak to come.

Texas Roadhouse is located on the Arabian Gulf Street between Shaab and Bneid Al Gar, in the Sidra Complex in Mahboula and in Grand Avenue - The Avenues. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook @texasroadhouseme for more information and the latest updates. Photography by Yousef Al Nasser, @yousefcam on Instagram. 147

bazaar techno

BLUETOOTH CASSETTE PLAYER

KEEP SECURE BOX

GOPRO HERO8 & GOPRO MAX

MASTER & DYNAMIC WIRELESS EARPHONES

ZERO ZERO V-COPTR FALCON DRONE

ORRO HOME LIGHTING SYSTEM

A Walkman-inspired design with modern components. The It’s OK cassette player is a fun update that arrives with a built-in mic for recording onto a blank tape. Plus, Bluetooth 5.0 supports it to work with both wireless headphones and speakers! If you’re really seeking that old times nostalgic feeling, the cassette player has a 3.5mm jack for traditional wired headphones. Go full on 80’s and use the clip to attach it onto your clothes or bag.

The MW07 Plus wireless earphones are newly refined. The addition of active noise cancellation is what everyone’s seeking nowadays. The earphones also use dual beamforming mic arrays on each unit to be rid of any extra background noise. With a strong battery life, and the adoption of Bluetooth 5.0, the extended range provides a promising and easy connection. Detailed sound and a stainless-steel charging case provide up to 40 hours of total and awesome playback time.

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In need of extra security? Keep’s elegant and tasteful design of a new secure box is the one! The sleek box comes with an alarm clock in an LED display to show both time and the outdoor temperature. Inside the box you’ll find clear containers for your precious jewelry or any other priceless items to keep them all perfectly organized, plus temperature and humidity monitors. A companion app is available for easy secure locking, unlocking, and monitoring.

As its title, the Zero Zero V-Coptr drone comes in a V-shape and proprietary tilt rotor technology that will almost cut through the sky like the falcon it is! Its autonomous capabilities are astonishing, with a gimbal-mounted camera for sleek and smooth 4K videos and stills, obstacles will be avoided. The drone also uses nonlinear dynamics for modeling and control algorithms. Instead of four propellers, it only uses two that enables a 50-minute flight time.

The latest of GoPro’s action cameras have arrived. Both models are successors to the GoPro Hero 7 and Fusion 360. With a new body design, the GoPro Hero8 features foldable mounting fingers that are built into the camera with suction and body mounts. It shoots in 1080p to 4K with enhanced image stabilization. The additional add-ons make it easier for attaching lights and mics. While the GoPro Max can be used as a single-lens camera, and frontscreened for vlogging.

The first home lighting system in the world by Orro which responds to you by learning your very own preferences. It will also automatically set the perfect lighting for every occasion and moment. It nicely integrates with any smart home and can be controlled through a simple switch. You’ll be able to use the app or your voice through Alexa or Google home to set the lighting as well. Orro shines with its adaptive learning, dimming, and sensing natural light to save energy too!

Source: blessthisstuff.com Source: uncrate.com

raising canes

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS IN KUWAIT Dishes made from scratch, every day, in each P.F. Chang’s kitchen By bazaar staff

P. F. Chang’s is an Asian-American restaurant that was established by Paul Fleming and Philip Chiang in 1993 in Scottsdale, Arizona. But, P.F. Chang’s has a deeper story than this. Chef Chiang’s mother Cecilia Chiang originally had a very successful Chinese restaurant before the conception of P.F. Chang’s called The Mandarin. In 1974, the Chiang’s opened up a second restaurant in Beverley Hills, with a more casual concept called the Manderette, which grabbed the attention of celebrities such as John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Soon enough, Philip stepped in to run the restaurant and developed the original menu. 150

After a while, The Manderrete caught the attention of Paul Fleming from Arizona. Fleming fell in love with the notion of this casual Chinese restaurant and decided to cut a deal with the Chiangs. Here, magic was created, and P.F. Chang’s was born. In case you were always wondering where the name P.F. Chang’s originated from, it is the two founders’ names combined which form the well-known P.F. Chang’s title. Throughout the years, P.F. Chang’s continued to grow and currently has over 210 US locations and over 95 restaurants in 25 different countries across the globe. P.F. Chang’s multi-unit restaurant theory was the first in the US that chose to honor the 2,000-year-old tradition of wok cooking as the center of the guest experience. Therefore, many of their dishes are prepared with the help of a wok, which is a large round bowl-shaped frying pan. The first P.F. Chang’s location in Kuwait opened in 2009. It has since expanded to four more locations. Apart from their distinctive philosophy that has supported their expansion internationally, their hero dishes, which are often imitated but never duplicated, set them apart from the rest. Mongolian Beef: The ultimate perennial guest favorite. Ingredients include a deliciously sweet soy glaze, flank steak, garlic and snipped green onions. This traditional recipe is rooted from the Mongolian region of China and is prepared with thin slices of caramelized beef in a very balanced sauce and tossed with nipped green onions. The Original Dynamite Shrimp: A P.F. Chang’s signature appetizer dish is tempura-battered and then lightly tossed into an explosive sriracha aioli sauce. Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A secret Chiang family recipe and a delicious combination of chicken and other traditional ingredients prepared in the wok. This is served with fresh iceberg lettuce leaves to wrap with. Singapore Street Noodles: Slim rice noodles that are tossed with shrimp, chicken strips, tomatoes, cilantro and garlic. This flavorsome dish can be ordered as an entrée or to complement another dish. Great Wall of Chocolate: The Great Wall of Chocolate is a rich six-layer chocolate cake with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Also served with fresh raspberries and sauce. Delish! Wok-Charred Beef: This plate includes slices of caramelized beef with marinated white and shiitake mushrooms, in addition to bell peppers. It also gets its flavor from a special technique of cooking called searing which is typically used in grilling, baking, braising, roasting, sautéing, etc. P.F. Chang’s credits its success to their Farm to Wok concept. Which is their philosophy when it comes to food: to use real, whole ingredients and prepare dishes fresh to order. When meals are ordered, the kitchen staff begins to prepare them on the spot. Everything is made from scratch every day, in every single location. This comes from a deep-rooted belief that food does not need to be complex to taste great, but needs quality fresh ingredients. For more information follow @pfchangsme or, visit its various locations at 1st Avenue - The Avenues, Al Corniche Club, Sidra Restaurants, Grand Plaza - The Avenues and Al Kout Mall. 151

bazaar movie night

The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in February!

BIRDS OF PREY

THE ROOM

KILL CHAIN

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG

EMMA

THE CALL OF THE WILD

Release Date: February 6 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure Cast: Ewan McGregor, Margot Robbie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead Synopsis: You ever heard the story about the cop, the songbird, the psycho and the mafia princess? After splitting with the Joker, Harley Quinn is back with her first appearance since Suicide Squad. In this twisted tale, told by Harley herself, she joins superheroes Black Canary, Huntress and Renee Montoya to save a young girl from an evil crime lord, Black Mask in Gotham City.

Release Date: February 13 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Action, Adventure Cast: Ben Schwartz, James Marsden, Jim Carrey Synopsis: Sonic, the blue anthropomorphic hedgehog from another world, comes to Earth to escape malevolent forces trying to harm his .power of super-speed. After accidentally causing a massive power outage, he is targeted by the government representative, tyrannical roboticist Dr. Robotnik to hunt him down. A human named Tom Wachowsk meets Sonic and tries to help him navigate the complexities of life on Earth.

Release Date: February 6 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi Cast: Kevin Janssens, Olga Kurylenko Synopsis: Two characters, Matt and Kate decide to buy an isolated house. During the move, they come across a strange room inside their new home that grants them an unlimited number of material wishes. Out of all the things money can buy, Kateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ultimate wish is to have a child. Having gone through two miscarriages, she wants nothing more than a touch of a child. So, will this strange room provide what the couple is missing the most?

Release Date: February 20 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Comedy, Drama Cast: Josh O'Connor, Anya Taylor-Joy Synopsis: Based on the classic novel Jane Austen, Emma Woodhouse is wealthy, young handsome, and clever. Emma, who lives in Georgian- and Regency-era England, stirs up trouble in her small conservative town by attempting to play matchmaker in the lives of her friends and family. This story is about the journey of finding your equal and earning your happy ending.

Release Date: February 13 Theaters: VOX Cinemas Kuwait-wide Genre: Action Cast: Ryan Kwanten, Nicolas Cage, Enrico Colantoni, Anabelle Acosta Synopsis: A man with a past is trying to find peace by operating and running a hotel, but then encounters a woman who checks into his hotel with an agenda and a plan. They are later met with an actual conflict, which revolves around three individuals who are dragged into a shootout that happens when two hitmen begin an evening of murder, betrayal and revenge. This is all an execution of revenge against a crooked gang of police, gangsters, and mercenaries.

Release Date: February 20 Theaters: Cinescape Kuwait-wide Genre: Adventure, Drama Cast: Harrison Ford, Karen Gillan, Dan Stevens Synopsis: This is the American, live-action CGIanimated adventure film based on Jack London's 1903 novel also titled The Call of The Wind. Buck, the big-hearted dog gets his life turned upside down when he is unexpectedly moved from his California home and transferred to the wilds of the Alaskan Yukon in the 1890s. As the newest member on a mail-delivery sled team, Buck experiences the adventures of a lifetime as he ultimately finds his true place in the world.

For more details on movie timings and the cinema nearest to you, visit www.cinescape.com.kw or www.kwtvoxcinemas.com. 152

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CREATIVE CREATIONS FROM HÄAGEN-DAZS A brand-new menu with delicious items

By bazaar staff

When Häagen-Dazs first opened at Souq Sharq, everyone made the pilgrimage to this iconic branch. Whether it was for the sweet and delicious desserts, their heavenly made ice creams, or simply,the beauty of the location itself. Since it first opened its doors to the public and up until today, Häagen-Dazs was, and still is, popping, especially at their latest location in Murouj which is the perfect spot to be in this lovely weather. 154

We all have a soft spot in our hearts for Häagen-Dazs. So many unforgettable memories have been made while we were indulging ourselves in the yummiest dishes at their stores. Now that they have introduced new items, and a whole new design for their menu filled with tantalizing patterns that reflect the vibrant dishes themselves, we couldn’t contain our excitement in trying them out! First and foremost, signature desserts are at the core of Häagen-Dazs’ culinary creations. Their popularity is obviously everlasting, just as their quality. Take the beautiful construction of the Chocolate Euphoria, which includes 12 mini scoops of Belgian chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and salted caramel ice cream all hidden inside a chocolate dome with brownies. It’s also served with strawberries, almond flakes and a smooth hot chocolate sauce to pour on top of the dome. This process alone is pure entertainment, as the dome artfully melts away to reveal more delectable goodies hidden beneath. Another signature dessert is the Chocolate Fondue, based on your preference, there’s the Royal which comes with 32 assorted mini scoops of various ice cream flavors and the Regular with 16 assorted mini scoops instead. It’s wise to mention that Häagen-Dazs’ incredible ice cream creations are made in Arras, France, an agricultural region that is known for its quality of ingredients. Prepared without the usage of any colorings, preservatives or artificial flavorings, the brand also carefully selects four main ingredients from nearby farms as well, which include skimmed milk, cream, sugar and egg yolk. Moving onto the star category of Häagen-Dazs’ newly designed menu, under Creations is where you’ll explore and discover joyful flavors. Three very different dessert skillets are available, the Cookie Skillet, where a vanilla ice cream scoop that sits on top of a warm cookie dough with warm chocolate sauce on the side. The unique Gers Ogaily skillet is an explosion of Middle-Eastern ingredients, baked with saffron and cardamom, and is served with Häagen-Dazs’ specially infused Chai Haleeb (tea and milk) sauce. The third and final skillet is a crunchy and warm Kenafeh, and the best part about these desserts is that you can also customize your own choice of ice cream on all skillets. Other fun desserts from the Creations menu section like the Bubble Waffle, and Ice Cream Sandwich will surely keep your sweet cravings satisfied. From the Arabic Creations category on the menu, we devoured the Cotton Nest and marveled at its glory. The dessert comes with a delightful scoop of raspberry sorbet, strawberry and vanilla ice cream on a bed of cotton candy that is carefully placed inside half of a chocolate dome, all beautifully topped with whipped cream, pistachio nuts, and strawberry mixed with raspberry sauce. If you’re a classicdesserts kind of person, you would be remiss not to try classics like the Brownie Explosion, the Waffle Dream, and the Lava Delight at Häagen-Dazs. It’s always worth giving Häagen-Dazs a visit, whether it is with family or friends, or better yet going solo for the sake of treating yourself to deliciously served desserts. Now that is an option we’re sure anyone would be glad to take! Making new memories has never been better shared over a cup of ice cream, or more. You can enjoy your Häagen-Dazs at Arraya, Souq Sharq, The Avenues, Al Kout Mall and Murouj. For more information, follow Haagen Dazs on Instagram @haagendazskw. Images taken by bazaar Studios.

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DINE HIGH IN THE SKY AT SINTOHO WITH FOUR SEASONS HOTEL KUWAIT AT BURJ ALSHAYA Stylish rooftop restaurant invites guests to embark on an exciting new culinary journey through modern far-eastern cuisine at unique venue high above Kuwait City. Soaring above the city on the 21st floor of Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, Sintoho invites guests to discover the best of modern far-eastern cuisine as they dine high in the sky while reveling in the restaurant’s energetic vibe and lively ambience. A dynamic hub of exotic flavors and culinary art, the stylish venue offers an interactive experience for diners as hot dishes are prepared before their eyes, filling the air with irresistible aromas. Didier Jardin, General Manager, comments: “We are thrilled to invite guests to discover the fresh flavors and lively atmosphere at Sintoho, Kuwait City’s latest culinary hotspot. Our new menu and concept have been carefully crafted to cater to the evolving preferences of diners and reflects the hottest emerging gourmet trends. This inventive approach to modern far-eastern cuisine is complemented by a buzzing atmosphere, sensational views and legendary Four Seasons service, making a visit to Sintoho an unmissable experience for discerning food lovers.” Sintoho is open daily from 7:00 to 11:00 pm. To make a reservation, call or WhatsApp (+965) 2200 6000 or email reservations.kuw@fourseasons.com.

EXPERIENCE THE FINEST HAND-CUT STEAKS AND AMAZING SEA VIEWS AT TEXAS ROADHOUSE ON GULF ROAD For those moments that you’re craving a beautifully cut flavorful steak, but you don’t feel like dressing up or worrying about reservations, Texas Roadhouse is the way to go. With their latest location on Arabian Gulf Street - Bneid Al Gar, you can experience the finest steaks cooked best to your liking with amazing sea views. The secret to the best experience at Texas Roadhouse, however, is their expert team’s ability to give you the best advice for an incredibly juicy steak- no matter what your cooking preference is! All of their steak offerings are seared to perfection to seal in their natural juices, and diners can expect the consistent quality of 100% halal USDA, 90-day grain finished, 28-day aged US beef for the perfect flavor, every single time. Don't get us started on that bread with that mouthwatering honey cinnamon butter! Couple all this meaty goodness with the entertainment of staff line dancing and the occasional visit from Andy the Armadillo - Texas Roadhouse is a treat not to be forgotten. Texas Roadhouse is located in Grand Avenue- The Avenues (2228 3117), Sidra Complex in Mahboula (2208 1302) and Arabian Gulf Street- Bneid Al Gar (2221 4896). For more information and for the latest updates follow @texasroadhouseme on Instagram and Facebook.

SPICE IT UP WITH SZECHUAN! SHAKE SHACK IS CELEBRATING THE CHINESE NEW YEAR WITH AN ASIANINSPIRED LIMITED-TIME MENU Spice it up with Szechuan! What better way to ring in the Chinese New Year than with Shake Shack’s latest limited-edition menu? The flavorful Szechuan menu is now available and for a limited time only. The new menu includes three items, starting off with Szechuan Burger, a cheeseburger topped with chili garlic pickled cucumber, crispy onions, lettuce and Szechuan mayo, a great twist to a classic! Those who prefer chicken, however, Shake Shack has them covered with Szechuan Chick’n; crispy chicken breast tossed in chili oil, topped with chili garlic pickled cucumber, shredded lettuce and Szechuan mayo. Both burgers are made with a 100% all-natural Angus beef or chicken, free of antibiotics and hormones. No burger is complete without fries, that is why Shake Shack has introduced Szechuan Cheese Fries, topped with Shack cheese sauce, veal bacon, scallions, chili oil and Szechuan sesame seasoning. A perfect companion to a tasty burger. You can enjoy the Szechuan menu at any of Shake Shack’s stores across Middle East. Learn more by visiting shakeshack.com and facebook and Instagram @shakeshackme. SUN, SEA, BREEZE… AND CHEESECAKE With over 250 dishes and larger than life portions, there’s something for everyone at The Cheesecake Factory, now open on the Arabian Gulf Street – Bneid Al Gar. Located in the heart of the city, this is the first standalone restaurant where diners can enjoy breath-taking views of the sea and the iconic Kuwait Towers. The menu consists of a spectacular selection of dishes which are ideal for sharing or taking home for a second meal, The Cheesecake Factory dishes are all made fresh from scratch daily in each restaurant including Small Plates & Snacks, Appetizers, Pastas, Fish and Seafood, Steaks, Salads, Sandwiches, Pizzas and a lower-calorie SkinnyLicious Menu. Plus, you can also enjoy a selection of over 30 legendary cheesecakes and specialty desserts. If you’re having a family get-together, chilling at home with friends or simply craving The Cheesecake Factory, enjoy in the comfort of your home by ordering on Talabat, Carriage or Deliveroo. Follow The Cheesecake Factory on @TheCheesecakeFactoryMiddleEast on Facebook and Instagram for the latest offerings.

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WE WENT GOLD MINING IN SHARQ A Reintroduction to Magma By bazaar staff

As the current co-owner, Chef Khaled Al Baker stumbled across Magma to revamp their menu in the past; not knowing what he now calls a â&#x20AC;&#x153;gold mineâ&#x20AC;? of a location would be his next successful endeavor. Chef Khaled is certainly no stranger to the field, but Magma has a special place in his heart. With many restaurants under his belt, Chef Khaled told us about this pizza and pasta concept conveniently located opposite of Souq Sharq. 158

It was not too long ago when Chef Khaled was working alongside his team, solely on redesigning the menu of Magma while enjoying a cup of coffee on the patio. Although that has not changed, Chef Khaled’s role definitely has. At the beginning of his journey with Magma, he worked on improving the menu, adding new items and giving it his own twist. Without even realizing, he fell in love with Magmas’ potential. He could envision adding more than just pizza and coffee, and it started to mean more to him. During this experience, the kitchen was completely expanded and redesigned. Lunch launched in January of this year, Dinner, a few weeks before that and Breakfast is coming soon. Wanting to stand out from a typical Italian restaurant, Chef Khaled emphasized how he does not want to be limited by having Magma put into an “Italian” restaurant closet, “The concept I wanted here is American Italian…New-York Italian,” he said. Chef Khaled credits this successful endeavor and says it wouldn’t have been possible without his partners and team, the Ventri guys and Chef Ranjit. Simply, Magma became a pizza and pasta concept. It does not identify with a certain cuisine, but instead is a combination of fresh flavors from an infusion of Italian, American, and Middle Eastern influences. The Chef also does not seem to put himself in any boxes, constantly experimenting with different flavors with some of our favorite ingredients. This belief is apparent in the design of the restaurant as Magma comes off very modern, but also industrial with a trattoria vibe. High ceilings with gorgeous lighting hanging down make their own statement as soon as you walk in. Red bricks are exposed under a basic coat of light matte grey walls to map out a shape of Italy in one corner, while in the center stands the show stopper. A genuine olive tree lies in the middle of the restaurant with tables and benches surrounding it. It might be the biggest indoor olive tree we have seen! The huge grey vase holding it complements the overall feel of the spot. Just as we were still taking in the beauty of the place, we started receiving our order on the table. For starters, our appetizers and salads were placed in front of us. They looked too good to touch. Though the food at Magma is satisfyingly Instagrammable, it is even better enjoyed. The Focaccia Bruschetta and two different salads, Zucchini Carpaccio and Pumpkin Arugula were up first. The Focaccia bread tasted like the best pizza dough we had, while the salads were dowsed with flavor. Making a salad look interesting enough is on another level! The Pumpkin Arugula salad contained tri-colored quinoa that added fiber and protein to the dish while giving it a crunchy texture. If you’re a fan of trying new things or a veggie lover, then you will love the zucchini fries! If you’re feeling something a bit lighter, the Zucchini Carpaccio is a nice way to start your meal - fresh, vegan and filling enough that you have room for more! It was a risky step when Chef Khaled decided to include no main courses on this menu except for pizza and pasta. But, he believes that most people

in Kuwait have a greater love and appreciation for smaller, delicious meals that can be shared. The lovingly prepared crispy artichoke was served and it was absolutely surprising. With a burst of flavor all thanks to the truffle oil and labneh, it is definitely an appetizer unique to Magma. The Pesto Orchietti is green and dreamy while the Funghi Gnocchi, creamy. It is the perfect mushroom-y warm pasta dish to have while sitting outdoors. Speaking of outdoors, although the restaurant has both outdoor and indoor seating areas, you should take full advantage of the weather nowadays by ordering a Magma signature coffee while overlooking great scenery. At Magma, food created by Chef Khaled is perfection with a twist. Magma, is their spicier take on pepperoni pizza. Their ingredients include tomato, mozzarella, pepperoni, fresh green chilli and chilli sauce. The cherry on top was the dessert, and it was the best cherry we had. Except, it wasn’t really a cherry. It was two staple Italian desserts, the Cannoli, and the Tiramisu. Overall, if you’re into food with innovative flavors that are prepared with great care and attention to detail, you cannot go wrong with Magma. Their décor will leave you in awe, setting the mood for a piquant dining experience with family and loved ones.

Magma is located across from Souk Sharq. For more information, follow @magma. kw on Instagram or call 5590 6331. Images by Kulsum Kunwa. 159

YOUR CUP OF TEA

Ahmad Tea tells us the story of the world’s most popular drink By bazaar staff

All good stories should start in front of a campfire in the company of friends and a warm cup of tea in your hands. This tale is about the world’s most consumed beverage. And no one makes quality tea like the London-based Ahmad Tea. Famed for their gift boxes and everyday teas, the company only uses the finest, freshest and most flavorful tea leaves that are selected by expert tea tasters to ensure that every single cup of tea bearing the Ahmad Tea name matches the high expectations of tea connoisseurs. The tea leaf grows on the Thea Sinensis plant, a member of the Camellia family; it grows naturally to over 20 feet, and is indigenous to China and India. When in cultivation, the tea bush is regularly pruned so that it is kept to a height of three feet. Only the tips and the top two layers of young leaves, where the sap and nutrients are concentrated, are plucked. Not only does this help to provide a good quality cup of tea, it also stimulates the growth of the bush, thus increasing the maximum yield. Tea bushes are grown best between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn and between the altitudes of 1000 and 7000 feet. They enjoy warm, tropical climates with good rainfall. The climate dictates whether the bush can be plucked all year round, or if it is seasonal. The warmer climates, such as those of Africa and Sri Lanka, allow all year round production, with especially high yields during the monsoon periods. Colder climates, such as those found in the Himalayan foothills, only produce yields in seasonal "flushes." Differences in soil acidity, altitude and climate produce the distinctively different flavors of the various teas. The preservation of the tea's quality over its long and intricate journey from the estate to your hands is dependent upon the continuous care with which it is treated, tested and tasted every step of the way. It continues through care at every step of Ahmad Tea’s selected teas' journeys. And it culminates in the creation and recreation of each blend according to the palates, skill and experience of the Ahmad Tea artisan tasters, supported by the exhaustive nature of tasting, selection, blending and testing procedures. Every day more than 500 cups of tea are carefully tasted by experts. The process uses

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"When we refer to tea, it all comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant, so interestingly black and green tea share the same origin, but have been made in slightly different ways."

STEP 01 PLUCKING The top “two leaves and bud” are carefully and expertly plucked by the many pluckers employed by the garden. Harvesting the crop is a very labor-intensive process. The worker manually selects the leaves and tips from the bush. STEP 02 WITHERING Once collected, the leaves are spread over a long tray and dried with hot air. In most cases this air is forced through small holes in the tray as it quickens the process. The leaves turn supple after withering which prevents it from breaking into ﬂakes. STEP 03 ROLLING This stage breaks the veins of the leaves, releasing the juices essential in order to begin fermentation. During processing the leaves take on the ﬁnal shape found in the Ahmad Tea caddies bought in shops across the world. STEP 04 FERMENTATION

the skill and experience of the Ahmad Tea artisan tasters to create only the best tea blends. There is a common misconception that the two most popular varieties, green and black tea come from different plants. When we refer to tea, it all comes from the Camellia Sinensis plant, so interestingly black and green tea share the same origin, but have been made in slightly different ways. Black tea has been either cut or rolled which releases all of the juices and the natural enzymes, starting an oxidation process. This means that the color changes from brown to black, and it also causes a change in flavor, giving black Ahmad Tea its superb quality and consistency in taste. For green tea, the process is similar, but before cutting or rolling, the tea is heated to a very high temperature. This destroys the natural enzymes and an oxidation process can’t take place, therefore the tea will stay green. This is what gives it the enjoyable

flavor, from the classic taste of pure Green Tea to the fruitiness of Strawberry and Kiwi Green Tea. Ahmad Tea offers a range of flavored black teas too, which are proper black teas with added fruit pieces. These are still black teas but flavored to give a truly delicious blend to satisfy the palate. There are also delicious tea infusions which are not traditional teas, but fruit and herbal infusions with natural ingredients. These give a rainbow of flavors, aromas, and moods to keep every tea enthusiast happy and satisfied with their choice of blend. Whatever your cup of tea is, there is one at Ahmad Tea that is perfect for you.

Ahmad Tea can be found in all co-ops, supermarkets and quality retailers. For more on tea follow @ahmadteaarabia on Instagram.

This is the stage that determines the taste. Once the leaves have been 'processed' they are placed in a cool, airy and humid room to ferment. The thickness of the spread controls the temperature of the leaf, the rate of moisture loss and the access of oxygen. STEP 05 FIRING Drying the leaf in an oven stops fermentation. The leaves are dried to a moisture content of approximately 2%, in order to prevent a musty taste. If the firing continues for too long the tea will adopt a poor, burnt taste. STEP 06 GRADING Once the firing stage has been completed the leaves must be graded into differing sizes and categories before final bulk tea packaging. Understandably, only about 5% of the total production retains its full leaf shape.

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BATH & BODY WORKS LAUNCHES A THOUSAND WISHES FOR VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTING A Thousand Wishes, Bath and Body Works iconic global top #5 best-selling fragrance, relaunches with new sparkling packaging and the same skin-nourishing customer-favorite fragrance! Love is in the air at Bath and Body Works with the perfect gift for the season. The collection features new glittering and glistening designs to celebrate the sparkle and shine for 14th February! The fragrance is a festive blend of pink prosecco, sparkling quince, crystal peonies, gilded amber & amaretto crème. The tantalizing scent is available as an eau de parfume, body scrub, bubble bath and hair shimmer perfume. Give the gift of radiant skin with New Glowing Body Scrub, made with glow-enhancing ingredients like pampering shea butter and vitamin E, this gentle scrub softens while it smoothes to reveal radiant, healthier-looking skin. The perfect self-care gift is A Thousand Wishes Bubble Bath, made with shea butter and cocoa butter, the rich, creamy foam envelops you in lasting, ultra-pampering bubbles to leave your skin beautifully scented. And if you are craving more hydration after your shower routine, A Thousand Wishes includes new Body Butter, infused with Shea Butter and cocoa butter, and provides 24 hours of nourishing moisture to soften even the driest skin. The whipped, fluffy and fast-absorbing formula melts into skin to provide beautiful fragrance and all day, all night hydration. It is also available for on-the-go fragrance: Mini Body Wash, Mini Body Cream and Mini Face & Body Mist. The minis make great gifts for your favorite jet setter. Complementing the collection Bath & Body Works introduces its newest exclusive fragrance within the men’s collection – Midnight is a smooth blend of cedar leaf, amber musk and black pepper. Bath and Body Works is also expanding its grooming assortment this February 14th to include Shave Gel, After-Shave Balm and Moisturizing Body Wash in select fragrances for even more great gifts for him. For more information or to experience the A Thousand Wishes Collection and Men’s Midnight, please visit your local Bath & Body Works or go to bathandbodyworks.ae. Find out more on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @bathandbodyworksarabia.

LEONOR GREYL MASQUE QUINTESSENSE FROM BEAUTIQUE COSMETICS INTL Masque Quintessence harnesses the combined regenerative potency of Cupuacu and Maketti oils – both renowned for their moisturising and anti-oxidant properties – to hydrate parched locks and rehabilitate weakened strands. Like a mini hair doctor, this replenishing treatment is absorbed very slowly, to provide time-release nourishment and keep hair super-soft, supple and less susceptible to breakage – perfect for those whose hair has been left weakened by bleaching, highlighting, straightening or perming. If you color, straighten, blow-dry or highlight your hair on a regular basis, give it some much deserved TLC with this ultra-rich mask. Thanks to thirst-quenching cupuaçu and manketti nul oils, even the most brittle hair will be revived and nourished. The best defense is a strong offense, and Masque Quintessence will help you defend your hair against dehydration. For more information please call 2225 1285, visit the beautiquecosmeticsintl.com or follow @beautiquecosmetics on Instagram.

MEET THE NEW TANGLE TEEZER ORIGINAL MINI, RAINBOW THE UNICORN AND DINO MIGHTY! Anyone who has had to tame a child’s unruly mane knows how frustrating it can be and how often it might end in tears. Brushing your child’s hair should be a bonding activity. It is now easy to turn the ouch into yay and blissful brushing is with The Original Mini Detangling Hairbrush, Rainbow the Unicorn, Unicorn Magic and Dino Mighty. The secret to pain-free detangling lies in the two-tiered teeth. The long teeth flex through tangles and the shorter teeth smooth the hair. The Tangle Teezer Original Mini leaves hair healthy and detangled. For more information please call 2225 1285, visit the beautiquecosmeticsintl.com or follow @beautiquecosmetics on Instagram.

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100% VEGAN, 100% WORTH THE WAIT! ELEVATION BURGER LAUNCHES NEW VEGAN BURGER Always in touch with the local community’s continuously evolving demands and the fast-casual concept’s commitment to elevating your favorite burger experience into an organic and flavorful one, it came as no surprise to us when we found out that Elevation Burger was planning on adding a Vegan Burger to its roster of delicious offerings. It’s really refreshing to see dining concepts that are committed to what their customers want, as the new Vegan Burger caters to a largely growing community of vegan diners looking to share in the renowned Elevation Burger experience. Launched on the 12th and 13th of January via an exclusive tasting event at Elevation Burger Al Seif, foodies from different walks of life and select members of the press flocked to the iconic location to sample the allnew organic vegan patty. It was a cozy evening complete with local musicians playing international and Arabic favorites on the flute and guitar by two performers from @Jazz_time, setting the tone for the entire evening. With Al Seif’s casual outdoor seating area, the launch of the Vegan Burger brought together the local community in an informal, group setting. Every person who then tried the Vegan Burger was rewarded with a sticker that said “I tried the Vegan Burger at Elevation.” As for the organic vegan patty itself, Elevation Burger has successfully delivered on both presentation, texture and taste. Bursting with flavor with whole chunks of carrot, corn kernels, and a vibrant array of root vegetables and grain, the vegan patty is a celebration of freshness. Expertly seared for a perfect crisp on the outside, the thin crust gives way to a heartwarming fluffy inside; the patty is served in an organic vegan bun to complete the experience. The Vegan Burger is available at all Elevation Burger locations across Kuwait. For more information, please check out @Elevationkw on Instagram.

CONCLUDING NUQAT’S ‘REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2019’: “STATE OF THE ELASTIC MIND” Leading pan-Arab non-profit organization for cultural development – Nuqat – recently held their Regional Conference 2019, set under the theme ‘State of the Elastic Mind: A New Mindset for Old Barriers’. Nuqat’s ten-day Conference (marking its 10-year anniversary milestone) was one of the largest multifaceted cultural events taking place in the Middle East. Innovative thinkers, creatives, activists, and policy makers from all over the Arab world gathered at the Amiricani Cultural Centre in Kuwait to engage in a multidisciplinary dialogue that encompassed art, culture, architecture, design, technology, social and environmental issues with the aim of cultivating creative development in the Middle East. With the main event taking place in Kuwait, Nuqat organized other cultural activities of the Regional Conference across seven cities within the Arab world. The launch in Kuwait kicked off with three days of lectures, talks and discussion panels, followed by seven days of cultural workshops conducted for different age groups. Prominent speakers addressed the emerging issue of the necessity to collectively rewire our thinking and behavior in order to conquer personal, social, and structural obstacles. Renowned cyborg artists Neil Harbisson and Moon Ribas also made a special appearance and presented an extraordinary show. Nuqat’s Regional Conference workshops were conducted by prominent cultural figures, with names such as Dr. Raffi Tchakerian, George Azar and Tariq Al Olaimy joining in. This year Nuqat took the workshops further to become more multi-disciplinary, bringing participants from different backgrounds to design solutions for problems regarding social inclusivity, environmental sustainability, urban design and authentic storytelling. For more information visit the wesbite www.nuqat.me and stay updated about Nuqat’s latest on Instagram @nuqat.

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THE ARC'TERYX PROTON LT IS A JACKET YOU'LL NEVER WANT TO (OR NEED TO) TAKE OFF Active insulation is a fascinating innovation, the kind of stuff that achieves the seemingly impossible task of keeping you warm when you are standing still and cool when you’re working hard. The new revised version of the Arc’teryx Proton LT Hoody uses this clever tech resulting in a jacket with an air permeable outer fabric and a breathable synthetic insulation, a combination that makes it ideal for things like ski touring and winter climbing or walking. The Proton LT Jacket is equipped with a breathable insulation package to manage the dynamic needs of mountain pursuits and perform as a self-regulating mid layer for a variety of high output activities. This is one of those jackets you’ll get a whole lot of use out of. So, if you’re in the market for a new jacket, an active insulation piece like this could really be the answer. Available at Explorers Base – Al Tilal Complex, Shuwaikh, Carbon Fiber – The Avenues and Kuwait International Airport, Arrival Terminal. You can also shop online at ExplorersBase.com. For more information call 2225 6323 or follow @ExplorersBase on Instagram.

AUK CELEBRATES LANGUAGE ARTS FESTIVAL The American University of Kuwait (AUK) hosted the Real English Arts for Language and Life (REALL) Language Arts Festival—a festival that showcases English skills while celebrating student talent in the performing and visual arts. The festival featured original plays, poetry, storytelling, and artwork, which were performed by AUK students as well as students from various local schools across two separate days at the university’s auditorium. AUK’s Intensive English Program students opened the event with a performance to the AUK community audience. The second performance was a collaboration between AUK’s Admissions Department, Intensive English Program, and Graphic Design Department who assisted with the IEP art gallery. It featured performances and audiences from the following government and private schools: American United School, Canadian Bilingual School, Danah Universal School of Kuwait, and the US State Department’s Access Jahra. The organizer of the event, Ms. Alison Larkin Koushki, IEP Senior Instructor commented, “We recognize the important opportunity this festival provides its participants as English teaching experts advise us to involve students in projects in which they experience the language. Learning through drama and the arts projects does just that.” For more information visit the AUK website auk.edu.kw. Follow them on social media to stay up-to-date with their news on Instagram @auk_kuwait, Twitter @AUKTweets and at The American University of Kuwait on Facebook.

BACKYARD DISCOVERY PRESTIGE WOODEN SWING SET FROM FANTASY WORLD TRANSFORMS YOUR GARDEN Backyard Discovery Prestige Wooden Swing Set is a perfect outdoor playset for your kids, especially when the weather is beautiful. Despite its small size it has features that are only found in larger backyard playsets. There’s so much to do in this playset that your kids won’t get bored. The colorful awning, exciting ladder and rock wall ladder will help kids advance their coordination, strengthen their muscles and advance their motor skills. It also has two belt swings and a trapeze bar to keep the whole gang flying high, while the 8’ long super safe speedy slide, with high walls for added safety, provides crazy sliding fun for all the kids. Our favorite feature might be the cute snack stand where your kids can take a quick snack break from all the playing. Backyard Discovery is perfect for the kids 3 years and above and retails at KD 199 and is exclusively available at all Fantasy World stores and Online. To learn more about Fantasy World, visit any of Fantasy World’s social media platforms: Instagram @Fantasyworldtoys, Facebook @FantasyWorldToysKuwait and YouTube: Fantasyworld Kuwait.

PAMPER YOURSELF WITH NEW INTEX PURE SPA GREYWOOD DELUXE SET FROM FANTASY WORLD Let your worries bubble away as you unwind in the total relaxation of the Intex Pure Spa Greywood Deluxe. It is a whole new level of indulgence with its sophisticated woodgrain pattern that adds a touch of elegance to any backyard. Intex is a game changer and has been introducing products that you never thought would be so easily accessible. The set fits up to 6 people who can enjoy the ultimate experience in relaxing water with high powered jets. The premium headrests and LED light provides maximum comfort and create the perfect mood and ambiance for pure relaxation. The wireless touch panel control activates up to 170 high-powered bubble jets surrounding the interior of the spa for a refreshing massage at the touch of a button. It also features built-in hard water treatment to make the water gentler on skin, clothes, and the entire spa system. The best part about PureSpa is, it can be deflated and easily stored or transported. You can take PureSpa wherever you want. The set includes an insulated cover, heater/filter/blower/hard water system, LED light, 2 filter cartridges, 2 headrests, thermal ground cloth, inflation hose, carry bag, floating chlorine dispenser, and test strip. Get your own at-home spa system from Fantasy World today. To learn more about Fantasy World, visit any of Fantasy World’s social media platforms: Instagram @Fantasyworldtoys, Facebook @FantasyWorldToysKuwait and YouTube: Fantasyworld Kuwait.

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VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22 The beautiful days are increasing! Take the time to nurture your inner child, take a full view filled with different arts, listen to new music, and enjoy all the joyful bits of that roller coaster. It may sound too chaotic for you, but you’ll never know where it’s heading till you embrace it. Spark up that dimly lit candle again and be surprised!

LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22 You’re feeling inspired to branch out and spread that endless peace within you. This step may even inspire you to start placing everything back into its rightful place. Express a different side of yourself and live a little! Keep up the peaceful and positive energy that you’re slowly conjuring and share it with those closest to your heart first and foremost.!

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 19 Decluttering is your theme for the month. Whether it is for your physical space, or your mental being, take that inspiration and focus on straightening things up to get rid of unnecessary clutter surrounding your environment. Break free from the usual routine and venture out into the creative field for that extra kick of inspiration that you’ve always looked for!

ARIES MAR 20 – APR 19 Your to-do list has been longing for an update. It’s time to pull yourself away from the relaxation and start sticking to a nicely curated schedule. Open up to the endless possibilities and begin to tackle the road of obstacles. Be prepared to conquer the upcoming challenges and ground yourself more rather than being swept away by your mood swings.

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20 Your heart and mind are seeking fulfillment. Try to be on the lookout for new destinations and ideas that are out of your comfort zone. A solid idea is your road to progress further into your future ventures. Your expertise is as unique as the advice you share with people, the growth within is everlasting. Don’t wait any longer and own it.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21 The airy vibe is directing you towards the essential care of your body and mind. Have another look at your routine and give it a new perspective. Invest in providing the time in your schedule for consistent self-care. Find the methods which might appeal to you the most and follow them. Your body and mind will ultimately be refreshed.

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22 Listen well, and tune in with your thoughts. The opportunity to understand your inner workings might occur, so be prepped! Aim to create a stronger form of structure for yourself, and make space for new insights. It’ll definitely be a good time for you to start taking things to the next level, or simply create a new standard level for yourself.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21 You’re not one to take life too seriously, but, you may be working in finding your place in this world. Spend some time on rethinking what you need and want for your inner self. Allow the full enjoyment of this experimental ride, and you never know, you might actually be surprised for once, Sags! Avoid getting tangled up in irrelevant drama.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19 Your patience is being tested when it comes to your lists. It could look like an easy job to go through each and every point, and it will be when you’re not overthinking things through. Careful on pushing yourself too far, otherwise your tolerance will not thicken. Polish up, regain all your strengths before you set out to your daily achievements.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18 Your ideal creations are slowly manifesting, slowly and gradually meditate on that beautiful stream of thoughts. Get in touch with your ambitious inner artist, and face your hidden talents for them to emerge. Use your peaking talents the best you can and move your attention to your heart’s purpose a little more, it might help narrow things down for you.

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22 Your search history is probably piling up with unpicked activities, it is the season after all. Embrace those carefree moments, let go, and try out more than one fun thing to do or learn! Fill your life with bits and pieces of different experiences. Let your mind swim in creative passions, and you’ll see the joy within significant life encounters.

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22 Your usual unflared flow has been slightly disrupted. A Leo without a strong flow is no Leo at all. Turn to loved ones for tips and spend some time to figure out how you can get your flow back on track. Your wellbeing is far more important than simple parading, sit with your inner thoughts, and reflect on the matter at hand.

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bazaar February issue 2020

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bazaar February issue 2020