DÖTTLING’S OFFERS PEACE OF MIND: BUT ONLY IF YOU CAN AFFORD IT

They say the value of having peace of mind is priceless. And that comes with the surety that one’s belongings are safe and secure without having to be supervised at all hours. When wanting to protect these valuable items, those in the know turn to Döttling, the renowned German safe manufacturer with a proven track record of providing high quality security with time tested craftsmanship.

*****Article by Azral Hanan*****

Established in 1919 by Ernst Döttling, it began as a locksmith shop in the town of Sindelfingen. Ernst perfected his craft and workmanship. Everything was done by hand and with meticulous attention to detail and finesse. Since then the company has grown from strength to strength through the subsequent generations. Even while still maintaining the dedication to the exceptional standards of their founder.  Under the stewardship of Markus Döttling who is the fourth generation of the family, the Döttling brand has expanded and carved its own niche in the world of luxury safe-making.

Döttling specialises in producing exceptionally designed safes that can be customised to suit the individual preferences of any client. Each safe is meticulously planned and developed, taking into account the client’s needs and desires, then enhanced by a legacy of four generations of expertise and technical finesse; derived from traditional German locksmith artistry. The result is a perfect combination of functionality, strength and beauty.

What really draws potential clients is that unlike many other industries and companies that have gone fully or partly automated to enable mass production, Döttling still does things the hard way. That is by employing skilled human labour. When they mention ‘handcraft’ it’s not a fancy way of saying ‘finishing touch’. The whole process from development, through assembly, and on to the finish, is all done by human hands. This holds true for every safe that has ever passed through the 100 year old gates of their manufactory at Maichingen.

A battalion of locksmiths, restorers, painters and security specialists are among some of the skilled talent at their disposal as they bring forth each unique tailored masterpiece. If someone wants gold plating, goldsmiths apply and work with 24 carat gold leaf. Variations include red and white gold to antique gold. And this diversity in options is not just limited to precious metals.  The master saddlers have handled materials ranging from the conventional to the truly exotic. Calfskin, bird’s feathers, even ray skin. Whether the cutting, or sewing and bevelling, it’s all done exquisitely by hand. No expenses are spared. Not even time.

To meet the ever more expanding and specialised requirements of their discerning clientele, Döttling has developed a range of models and product lines all sharing the hallmark of timeless artistic pedigree and German technical mastery. Among some of the more sought after include the Bel Air, a handmade high security luxury class model. Then there’s the ‘Chameleon’ which as its namesake implies, blends near seamlessly with the background. Its unique swing door mechanism allows it to integrate even into limited space.

Those looking for something a bit more opulent can opt for the ‘Pauline’, a safe with customised compartments for your jewelry and documents. It even comes with a portable jewellery case equipped with GPS, just in case one misplaces it.

Döttling has even collaborated with that icon of creativity, the fashion genius that is Karl Lagerfeld. The aptly named ‘Narcissus’ was conceived as a fusion of high aesthetic; merged with innovative cutting edge technology. This fully automated marvel only reveals and activates itself to its owner. The steel body weighing at 800kg is sheathed in high gloss, chrome-plated aluminium. The interior is made up of two handcrafted cabinets fitted with jewelry drawers and watch winders. Like any singular art-piece only 30 will be available as the effort and skill needed means only a few can ever be made.

For something truly remarkable one cannot go far wrong with the GrandCircle. Even rarer than the Narcissus it’s limited to only 20. When you see it you’ll know why. It’s basically a safe in the shape of a clock consisting of 52 individually controlled watch winders. An actual working handmade Naeschke pendulum clock is incorporated into the design. It even has its own minibar – convenient whenever Happy Hour strikes.

If one is looking for something more compact there’s the ‘Colossimo’ range which are regarded as the smallest commercial luxury safes in the world.  The outer design of these table-top safes is reminiscent of American bank vaults. Like their larger cousins, the Colossimo incorporates gold plating and complex gem-based locking mechanisms and completed with a carbon finish.

The search for security of belongings is constantly evolving. Döttling has been at forefront of the new revolution in asset safekeeping that emphasises a holistic approach that goes beyond just having a safe in the home. Already with the ‘Chameleon’ they have a unit that can integrate with furniture and room decor. Yet Döttling goes a step further with its pioneering security vision with the ‘Safiture’ and the ‘Collector’s room’.

The ‘Safiture’ is truly one of a kind. It’s a range of high-quality furniture that masks the presence of storage vaults in a house. The main feature consists of having safety furnishings around the secured core, in effect making it invisible. These can be whatever the client wants. All furnishings and décor will be especially custom made by hand to fit any individual requirement and taste.

With the Collector’s room, Döttling offers a full spectrum security concept in which not only is the safe provided, but also the room itself made secure. The skilled craftsman and security expertise at their disposal is put to use to design aesthetically pleasing rooms and chambers with security features that have been fully amalgamated into the final ambience. The end product is an enclosed space that can not only showcase and enhance any prestigious collection or valuables on display, but also offer the owner confidence with its formidable safety mechanisms and near unbreachable protective measures.

Thus to ensure peace of mind, put your trust in the hands of Döttling; where the art of protecting what is most precious is in itself a worthy endeavour.

http://www.360celsius.com/

AFC AND PARTNERS LAUNCH ‘ONE GOAL’ CAMPAIGN

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) recently kicked off the ‘One Goal’ campaign along with partners World Vision, DSM, Global Alliance for Improving Nutrition (GAIN) and the Asian Football Development Project (AFDP), as part of the AFC Awards.  Focused on providing nutrition for every child in Asia, by leveraging the power of and the passion for football in the region,  the ‘One Goal’ campaign will seek to tackle the poor nutritional practices and access that have been holding back Asia and Asian football.

Signing Ceremony between AFC and WVI

FIFA Vice President and Co-Chair of the One Goal board, HRH Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein said, “The One Goal campaign is part of AFC’s long term social responsibility strategy.  We are glad that we are able to partner with global organisations like World Vision, DSM and GAIN to grow champions, both on and off the field in Asia.”

Asia is home to close to 578 million of the 1 billion malnourished people around the world.  Some 100 million of the 165 million children globally who are stunted – a condition where physical and intellectual growth is impaired due to chronic undernutrition – are Asian. Stunting also exposes these same children to a higher likelihood of contracting non-communicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Simply put: poor nutritional practices place an enormous burden on Asia as a whole, diminishing the potential of individuals, societies and economies.

Deborah Henry together with Stuart Ramalingam (L) and Urs Zannati (R)

“The vision of the One Goal campaign is to unite a diverse range of audiences under the banner of football and serve them messages about good nutrition, especially for children,” said Trihadi Saptoadi, Regional Leader, World Vision – South Asia and Pacific Regional office, “We are looking to ignite a social movement that will transform child nutrition in the region, helping more children survive and thrive.”

The campaign will seek to transform child nutrition in the Asian region by engaging players, fans and football lovers to become ambassadors for good nutritional practices and engage and encourage governments to invest more in helping children to access nutritious foods so they can grow up strong and reach their fullest potential.

Group Picture of Ha Dae Sung presenting the autographed football to Deborah Henry

“For children across Asia to eat, live and play right, we must ensure that their right to nutrition is recognized and defended – by us all,” said DSM’s Managing Board Member Stephan Tanda. “Together, the partners of One Goal are uniting to leverage their expertise, resources and reach so that we can tackle undernutrition – the root cause of stunting – head-on.”

“We commend AFC and partners for their leadership in addressing a crisis which is harming so many of Asia’s children and young people. Sporting excellence and good nutrition go hand in hand, we want to unite to give every child the right start in life” said Marc Van Ameringen, Executive Director of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition.

Maryann Hwee, President of Fringebacker, an Asia-focused crowd-funding platform said, “We are proud to be associated with One Goal. We have projects up that are supporting children who are malnourished at www.fringebacker.com/en/onegoal now with an initial goal of raising $50,000 to support nutrition clubs in Vietnam.”

“We invite football lovers all over Asia to come and be part of the One Goal campaign,” said HRH Prince Ali, “Visit us at onegoal.asia, learn more about the campaign and become part of transforming nutrition in Asia.”

About the Partners:

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is the governing body of Asian football and one of the six Confederations making up FIFA.  The AFC is now headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and consists of 46 Member Associations and one Associate Member Association. Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa of Bahrain is the AFC President and Dato’ Alex Soosay is the AFC General Secretary. (http://www.the-afc.com)

The Asian Football Development Project is a not-for-profit Youth Commission founded in January 2012. AFDP provides Asian football organisations and development organisations using football as a tool for social development with needs-based assistance. (http://www.the-afdp.com)

The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition is an alliance driven by the vision of a world without malnutrition. Created in 2002 at a Special Session of the UN General Assembly on Children, GAIN supports public-private partnerships to increase access to the missing nutrients in diets necessary for people, communities and economies to be stronger and healthier. (http://www.gainhealth.org)

Royal DSM is a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials. By connecting its unique competences in Life Sciences and Materials Sciences DSM is driving economic prosperity, environmental progress and social advances to create sustainable value for all stakeholders. (http://www.dsm.com)

World Vision is a global Christian relief, development and advocacy organisation dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice.  World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. (http://www.wvi.org)

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HEART WIRED: LOVE, SEX AND OTHER RELATIONSHIPS WITH ROBOTS (PART 2/3)

Why would anyone get a robot like a humanoid or android? We continue this article (Part 1) with the possible reasons to answer that question:

(Cover image via Wired)

Relationship Stand-In

During its inception, the Internet was lauded as a means of promoting greater connectivity helping to break through the social isolation brought on by the pressures of fast-paced modern living. The weakening of traditional social, cultural and family ties could be replaced with vibrant online communities and communication with people from all over the globe in a truly boundless network, where no-one would ever be alone.

*****Article by Azral Hanan*****

 It also means that living, studying and travelling overseas is no longer such a traumatic experience. The Internet is perfect for maintaining long distance relationships with loved ones who’ve moved far away. On top of that, it is now the norm for people who have never met except online to engage in internet or online relationships that can even lead to marriage.

Imagine if one could somehow bridge the space and distance not only with words, but with sensations such as voice, sight, sound and even touch. The first three is already popular with social media, videos and webcams allowing two lovers separated by thousands of miles to flirt face-to-face across different time zones, as long their bandwidth holds. But the sense of touch has so far proved elusive. It doesn’t mean for want of trying.

Durex Fundawear is specially designed underwear that can be worn and allows someone to transmit a vibratory sensation mimicking a touch to the wearer from a different location.

(Image via Bettina Arndt)

Several companies have already attempted to fill the void and create a product that will somehow bridge the tactile gap between two people communicating through the screen. Durex, for example, came up with the Fundawear, which is specially designed underwear that can be worn and allows someone to transmit a vibratory sensation mimicking a touch to the wearer from a different location.

With androids, it is possible to have a wholly synthetic stand-in in place in lieu of the actual person. They can be customized and made to order to appear as one’s wife, lover or even mistress. It is likely that in the near future, by adapting motion capture technology and combining it with animatronics, we may someday get seamless integration between the response’s and reactions of the simulacrum and the original person who may be ten thousand miles away. Here, the partner can engage in physical contact and enhance the emotional connection with their partner vicariously through the android.

Or the other way around, where the android is connected via the Internet to the other person wearing a full sensor body suit who is located elsewhere. Every time the android is touched, it sends a signal to the corresponding area on the body suit and it reacts accordingly, so the wearer feels as if they had been touched. Better yet, a combination of the two where both individuals can touch the other despite not even being in the same room or continent.

• Implications:

It’s an exciting possibility, but there are also a host of issues that can arise. Chiefly, what happens when someone hacks into the connection and engages in long distance molestation – either through the android or the body suit (similarly, if someone were to hack into the Durex Fundawear – are they guilty of molestation?).

And what about rape? Can rape legally take place if the perpetrator and the victim are miles apart (perhaps in another country) and there was no actual physical contact? Crimes like assault and sexual offences may have to be redefined to take into account the separation between the actual harm and the doer. Not to mention issues on child molestation and online grooming that could take on a whole new level of urgency with vicarious fondling now a possibility.

Companionship

In Japan there is a growing generation of young men who have remained cooped up in their rooms, turning into virtual recluses. They virtually cut themselves off from any form of social contact. Often, by spending every waking hour playing games, surfing the net, reading comics or sleeping. The phenomenon is referred to as hikkokomori or ‘pulling inward’.

The triggers seem to be lack of career prospects especially with Japan being in decades old stagflation and economic stagnation. This in turn means that young Japanese men find it more difficult to get a good university, which in turn affects their chances of getting good and stable jobs so as to be able to marry and raise a family. Originally believed to be a culturally specific social condition, researchers have noted that it is also occurring among the some sections of the male population in Europe and the United States.

Not surprisingly, it’s no coincidence that Japanese tech firms have been at the forefront of developments in the field of artificial companion dolls and androids. These have included, but are not limited to robot dogs, since dogs are a man’s best friend. Remember the AIBO from Sony and other variants such as the iDog from Sega and the Genibo from Korea? They wag and bark just like regular pooches. Unlike the real thing these, little guys don’t leave smelly gifts on the carpet, or bite the hand that feeds them either. Of course none of them have any fur, or warmth, or that delicious tingling feeling when a real dog licks your face showing its affection. Still, these are small steps.

EMA (Eternal Maiden Actualization), Sega’s version of a personal robot girlfriend

(Images via Amazon and Dalje)

Recently, Sega, which used to be better known as a game and console producer, came up with their own version of a robot girlfriend. Known as the EMA (Eternal Maiden Actualization), this pint sized fem-bot is specifically targeted at lonely (single) Japanese men. Although only 15 inches in height, it’s programmed to sing, dance and entertain any dour faced male recluse. EMA can even hand out business cards and use a hip swaying walk. If one is itching for a bit of l’amour, there’s a love mode that can be switched on. This activates the programming where EMA uses its sensors to detect and kiss any heads (I mean, faces) in proximity. Though these efforts appear aesthetically blocky and the AI rather basic, the technology is there and getting better for the eventuality of life-like artificial companions being with us in the foreseeable future.

• Implications:

This should help those who might have trouble socializing with people or are just suffering psychological loneliness or some sort of connection. But although the thinking behind creating automated companions is rather noble (other than making money that is), this sort of approach may cause it to worsen.

Folks suffering from web addictions such as cyber relational addiction (messageboards and chatrooms), or cybersexual addiction (Internet pornography) along with low socialization skills, and low self-confidence could simply transfer their obsession onto the android companion. Instead of going out meeting people or gaining the self-confidence to look for a job or try new things, they’ll be even more cooped up in their rooms, cossetting their artificial companions.

Automated Pleasure Dolls

To the adult entertainment industry this is the Holy Grail and the ultimate fantasy. Pornography has its uses, but it can only go so far, but to have a synthetic yet fully realistic robot that can engage, initiate and respond to sexual overtures as well as any living person would represent likely the greatest single achievement in human history since the wheel. And before one thinks this is just a bizarre kink that afflicts a few, a recent survey done by the Huffington Post and YouGov found that one in ten Americans would have sex with a robot.

(Image via Huff Post)

For years, many companies have tried to come up with their own attempts at synthetic sex people. From simple blow up dolls to clunky servos and wired machines for the bedroom, to anatomically correct sex bots steady though at times amateurish progress is being made in the adult industry. Much of the real innovation and sophistication is being done outside in research labs and R&D departments of major corporations as noted earlier. Eventually however, the high-brow technology will slowly filter through the rest as it is replaced by better models and that’s when they will be incorporated into the next generation sex bots. For example the University of Electro-Communications developer Nobuhiro Takahashi showcased a new robotic butt that not only responds to “slaps, caresses, and finger pokes” but also moves, undulates and twitches just like the real thing. His goal may have been to highlight robotic technology, but for Pleasure Bot enthusiasts, it’s gotten them one step closer to the fantasy.

These are amazing innovations and possibly tempting alternatives for some. But the big question is “Why should you get one?”

(Image via Film Gab with Werth and Wise)

Depending on the type of society you live in, sophisticated Ero-Bots could be widespread or be banned. In Malaysia they will probably fall under the same rule that prohibits dildos, vibrators and other assorted sex equipment from being sold openly or even being imported in. Which would be a damn shame, because other than the lurid factor; bringing Ero-bots into the country might even spark a healthy debate about reproductive and rights issues that for too long have had to kowtow to religious and conservative pressure.

Whilst in more permissive societies the question that will immediately arise will be how these Pleasure or Ero-Bots should be regulated. In terms of child models (not just Pleasure Bots, but any kind of android) would they be banned the same way some countries ban drawings of underage sex acts? Also in certain countries such as the UK, sado-masochism (SM) videos are prohibited even when done by consenting adults or for a couple’s private enjoyment. Does this mean certain acts cannot be done with Pleasure Bots as well?

What if someone bought a child model designed to provide companionship for those without children, and modifies it to be a Pleasure Bot? If these are merely products then the owner can do with them whatever they see fit – including for example modifying them to look like a minor or engaging in hardcore acts.

(Image via Cnet)

The argument from the other side will be that there will always be people with strange, weird and near illegal sexual fetishes and inclinations. Pleasure Bots can act as a safety valve so they don’t unleash them on others or prey on the rest of us. They can also be used to take over prostitution making it a safe, legal and thus taxable industry. Increase sexual health for the men, ensure safety of women and children from sexual exploitation and also generate revenue streams for the economy.

The counter to that is by making them legal and available are we promoting these fetishistic tendencies. Instead of being safety valve, some individuals may find their deviant obsessions exacerbated to the point they no longer find artificial substitutes adequate and may go after the real thing.

http://www.360celsius.com/

We were told that a renowned Indonesian jewellery designer was in town, and since we’re looking at everything glittery, glamourous and valuable this issue, we just had to sit down for a cup of coffee with the man to find out more about him and his shiny (multi-award winning) creations. Pak Chevy – the founder of Chev Jewelry – has been in the Indonesian industry since 1985, and today is a household name in his homeland. With thousands of unique creations to date, he is now looking to spread his distinctly Indonesian works around the world, and we are told Malaysia could very well soon see these in boutiques.

*****Article by Angelo Manuel*****

Chevy explains that he has had a fascination with jewellery since he was young. As such, he pursued an education in the fields of architecture, fine arts and gemology – a potent combination of skills which would help him make real all the marvelous designs he imagines, and leave his mark on the Indonesian jewellery industry. His persona certainly reflects his company’s motto which reads ‘respect is earned, honesty is appreciated, trust is gained, and loyalty is returned’, as he proves to be a very humble chap, despite his reputation as a design genius, and the number of prestigious awards he has garnered over the years.

He had a pretty meteoric rise to fame which began in the 80s, and first became well established in Magalang, after which Chevy’s goods were well received at some of the most prestigious outlets at Gajah Mada Plaza – which was then one of Indonesia’s most preferred malls. Following this, he began garnering numerous awards, with some of the most notable include winning the De Beers Diamond Competition (International Awards) in 1991, and being named a finalist at the competition in 1989 and 1993.

With the proven ability to win the hearts of international audiences with his creations, he continues to represent Indonesia’s industry in competitions and exhibitions around the world. In turn, his creations have found their way to models, the rich, powerful, famous and elite from all walks of life. While we were surprised at first that he does not take custom orders, it soon became clear that a man with such fame had paid his dues and has worked his way to becoming a trend-setter in his homeland.

Expanding his network and further securing his status as one of Indonesia’s top producers of fine jewellery, Chevy joined the gold factory ‘P.T Oro Agento’ in 1995, and to date, he owns a stake in the company located in Central Java. This move would mark his venture in production on an industrial scale, as the aforementioned company presented the resources to mass produce both handmade and casted pieces to cater to growing demand for his work.

Chevy’s style is distinct; best described as ‘ethnic and contemporary’, with traditional Indonesian design elements such as batik, and themes revolving around the flora and fauna native to the country. Each piece that comes from his factory is incredibly detailed – true to the reputation of Indonesian craftsmanship – and prices range from $500 USD to hundreds of thousands dollars, depending on the materials, precious stones, and limited availability of a piece. Some of which, we are told are only made once, entirely by hand, ensuring exclusivity to just one lucky owner.

With a smile, the gentleman tells us that often, he looks to his beloved wife for inspiration. He explains that the process always starts with a sketch, after which a wax impression will be created to base a mould on. Then, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, topazes, garnets and pearls are carefully outsourced, and inspected by a qualified gemologist. Meanwhile, his metal of choice is nothing less than argentium sterling silver, which is a material widely known for its non-oxidant properties, superior purity, brightness and resistance to tarnish and firestaining. Depending on the theme of his creations, the silver is further coated with other luxurious metals such as palladium and gold rhodium for a touch of elegance, and to enhance its aesthetic appeal.

Sporting a bejeweled silver claw on his index finger, Chevy also illustrates how some of his creations have numerous parts, allowing both a variety of aesthetic variations and mobility of the appendages as opposed to large single pieces which restrict movement. Also, he demonstrates to us how some pieces, such as rings feature detachable parts, allowing owners to swap the combinations of ornamental gems and motifs. While the designs appeared intricate and delicate, he cheekily dropped a piece on the table with a thud to show us his confidence in the quality and workmanship of his glittering creations, when questioned about their durability.

He gives us a hint about what to expect next, telling us that 2014’s collections will feature a ‘warmer’ approach, showing us a few examples which incorporate natural elements such as pearls, wood and even stingray skin. Chevy says that this is a rarely used material due to the painstaking process to treat it for jewellery application. To determine what to present each season, the artisan pays close attention to both international and local trends and interprets them in his trademark style.

Only recently has this Indonesian magnate begun to venture beyond his homeland (which is in itself a huge market). Chevy believes it is important for him to share his native culture with the world through his work. Hoping to inspire others throughout the industry, Chevy advises aspiring designers to be true to their style and roots, and to never skimp on craftsmanship and quality, as this will make their work unique, and worthy of the world stage.

Currently, plans are afoot to set up boutiques throughout the Asean region, with Malaysia being one of his first stops, followed by the Middle East and Europe, while China also remains a great prospect due to the rising number of elites in the nation. As such, lovers of fine jewellery and art have much to look forward to when Chevy Jewelry makes its way here. With that in mind, we’re pretty sure that they will be received well by the local luxury market, considering the fact that some of the themes, motifs, flora and fauna are shared between Malaysian and Indonesian culture.

www.chevantiques.com

About Chevy

Occupation: Jewelry Designer

Background: Architecture, Fine Arts, Gemology

Style: Contemporary Ethnic Indonesian

Base of Operations: Jakarta, Indonesia

Years in Industry: Nearly 30

Achievements: Winner of the De Beers Diamond Competition (International Awards), 1991; Finalist, De Beers competition, 1989, 1993

http://www.360celsius.com

KEEP THOSE RAYS AT BAY

Escaping the sun in an equatorial country like Malaysia is like trying to train your cat to fetch – it’s almost impossible and just downright frustrating. But not all of us are rich enough to hire a full-time executive umbrella holder a la Michael Jackson. Fret not just yet; Elles De Mont’ sunblock products are made with the qualms of the tropical folk in mind, without the hassle of having your skin looking like an oil rig.

Let’s face it – most of us know the general cause and effects of global warming, but few of us actually take it seriously. Our precious ozone layer has been skimping on its protection towards mankind day by day, letting some increasingly nasty levels of UV radiation to swagger in like a boss. While harmful in small doses, these UV rays can be detrimental to many aspects of our health, of which a lot of it can manifest on our skin. The fairer you are the worst the effects can be. Sunburns, aged skin, freckles – are all damaging side effects that occur on the skin, and just one bad exposure to sunlight can lead to potentially fatal skin diseases such as skin cancer.

This is why it is advisable for those constantly exposed to sunlight to invest in and incorporate a sunblock regime into their daily skincare routine. It is not just a matter of beauty (although the result of a well-maintained facial complexion doesn’t exactly hurt). Elles De Mont’ Sunblock provides the ideal solution for regular sun-goers, and yes, if you live in an area that is sunshiny most of the day, you’re included in the category. Their product range blocks out 99% of the UV rays with their unique mixture of particulate titanium oxide (Y-titanium) with ascorbic acid glucoside (vitamin C) for melanin suppression and natural vitamin E (tocopherol) as an antioxidant.

Still, the best part of Elles De Mont’ is that its range of products not only shields you from harmful exposure to sunlight – it is designed to be seamlessly absorbed into your skin without leaving noticeable residue or side effects.

TESTIMONIAL

Meet Tiffany Chin, a long-term Elles De Mont’ customer. Having inherited sensitive skin meant that Tiffany was not only susceptible to sun damage, but that acne was also another worry of this young working adult.

“I was constantly on the lookout for an ideal sunscreen product that suited my delicate skin. Of course, this meant that I’ve had the ‘fortunate’ experience of going through many products, most of which either gave me acne problems in the long run, or left me with that uncomfortable feeling of stickiness and oiliness which I had to deal with throughout my day. Thankfully though, a friend of mine suggested that I try Elles De Mont’, which ultimately put an end to my continuous hunt. Finally, a no-nonsense sunblock that works!”

So, if you’re like Tiffany, or living in a region where the sun shines the brightest, or simply looking for a guilt-free lazy day by the beach, make sure you grab a hold of the Elles De Mont’ goodness to keep your basking worries well under the shade!

www.360celsius.com

LAND ROVER LEADS BY EXAMPLE

While most things evolve to meet the lifestyle needs of today, there are those that remain tried and true. In the world of Land Rover vehicles, a dedication to the delivery of a seamless driving experience defines each and every offering. The predecessors of the Range Rover available today have seen it all – and remain the favoured choice among avid explorers and adventurers.

(Image via Vintage Ad Gallery)

*****Article by Angelo Manuel*****

So versatile has each offering been that they have collectively made their presence felt in the world of agriculture, the military, high society and even Hollywood blockbusters. However, as the needs of new and old customers are rapidly changing, the journey of discovery is an on-going one where the creation of each offering is concerned. To deliver and surpass this benchmark, the Land Rover team pays close attention to feedback to deliver nothing short of automotive excellence, with that trademark sturdiness and drivability the brand has been famed for since its inception.

The Series 1 Land Rover was given to Sir Winston Churchill as an 80th birthday present

(Image via The Telegraph)

History In The Making

Today, the latest Range Rover models are a statement in luxury, presented with robust, yet elegant bodies, while equipped with the latest in technology. Therefore, the latest incarnations are in fact luxury vehicles which stand tall beside the top notch offerings by other manufacturers and remain a class above.

In fact, the very first Range Rovers were designed to meet the needs of a niche market, which would go on to define the needs of those who desired a new standard of driving experience. The very first incarnation of the Range Rover series first made its appearance in 1948 as the Land Rover and was strictly utilitarian; it was primarily designed for use by both the agricultural and military market. And, as you would guess this ‘old faithful’ presented endless practical applications during a time when the transportation of goods was still heavily reliant on physical labour, and society’s elite wished to explore new horizons around the world.

Even during that time, the need to continuously evolve could not be ignored – as those who sought the vehicles at the time were clearly split into more than one segment. There were those who favoured the practicality of the vehicles as an aid to their vocations, as well as those who wanted a more leisurely experience as they crossed borders to experience new frontiers.

Seeing that there was no ‘one size fits all’ in the original Land Rover – which was in fact a smashing success the world over, the then Rover company set out to deliver a plethora of vehicles to meet the needs of both urban and industrial trends. The year 1951 saw the introduction of the Road Rover which had more of a station wagon look – which placed more emphasis on on-road drivability with off-road capabilities as a secondary consideration.

Seeing the success of this approach among the more urban consumer, the Road Rover Series II rolled out. in 1957, sporting a more saloon-like approach while equipped for an even more comfortable on-road experience.

Defining the Future

The introduction of technologically-updated offerings that met the needs of both markets through the following years saw the popularity of the Rovers increase exponentially. However, it was not until the 70s that we would see the best of both come together in the first perfect marriage, which was the Range Rover Classic.

The adventurous move by the company would set the template for all Range Rover marques to come, offering the very best of saloon car comfort and off-road capabilities. As a testament to the ingenuity of its design, the iconic Range Rover Classic design remained a faithful companion for nearly 30 years, and was further developed upon to meet the needs of the growing clientele. Some of its most unique variations included the armored ‘popemobile’ in which Pope John Paul II was often seen, and the six- wheel Firetender model which became a staple on airfields around the world.

Fast forward two generations later to 2012, and you can instantly tell that the latest Range Rover has come a long way from its humble roots more than half a century ago, reflecting the modern lifestyle of today in every aspect. Design-wise, the new Range Rover transcends all generations with an iconic look that even old fans of the brand can instantly identify with. This model featured bold design elements that hint at luxury, adventure, a highly customisable nature and superior technology.

As the brand did over half a century ago to meet the needs of urban drivers with the Road Rover, the new Range Rover Evoque reaffirms Land Rover’s ability to time and again meet the needs of both niche and mainstream markets. Meticulously tailored to deliver the very best of both worlds by stamping a new class of luxury and off-road superiority, the Evoque has been critically received worldwide. Garnering numerous international awards for all aspects of its design, it is easy to see why the Evoque fully meets the needs of a new class of adventurer altogether.

Undeniably, the standards set by the latest Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque are hard to top. However, if history is any guide, our needs as city dwellers and adventurers do not cease to evolve. And given their attentiveness to those needs, we can be sure that Land Rover will continue its tradition of innovation to deliver vehicles that bring out the best in lifestyles around the world.

BY KENNETH LIM

http://www.360celsius.com

FROM BOY WONDER TO FIRST-CLASS FANTASY

Having had the honour of following Haslin Ismail’s career since the very beginning, I can safely vouch for a genuine sense of evolution on the artist’s part. My first encounter with the artist’s works was in a small gallery in Lucky Garden, Bangsar. Owned by the late Mohd Nurul Husni, Kebun Mimpi – or Garden of Dreams – was a hideaway for blossoming artists, and Haslin’s imaginative works that delved deep into the recesses of fantasy and fiction were definite attention-grabbers.

*****Article by Rachel Jenagaratnam*****

Haslin Ismail

Notable were his artist’s books. You needed to wear white gloves, like a museum custodian, to flick from one fragile page to the next, each one pregnant with the artist’s markings and mayhem. His larger artworks then were no less experimental. Cardboard, string, and all manner of found objects dangled precariously from the canvases, and altogether, his works encapsulated the qualities of science fiction and fantasy – his two great loves.

Today, these levels of experimentation have paved way for a more contemplated form of art; Haslin, I can safely say, has matured into an artist with a truly distinct style of his own. Indeed, looking back at this early exhibition from 2008 is perhaps a tad ambitious, and certainly, too far-flung in the past for most of us to analyse his latest works. His last solo exhibition makes for a better point-of-comparison. Held just last year, he exhibited a body of work at Rimbun Dahan, Kuang, the swansong to his residency at that green oasis of an artist’s residency. The works were larger than life. Paintings towered above the average gallery-goer, the number of ink drawings and watercolours on paper could have formed a queue to the moon, and the narrative in his subject matter was more considered than ever before.

Ecstacy

Nature also played a strong role in this body of work. Surrounded by Rimbun Dahan’s lush greenery, the artist naturally channeled more organic forms into his works, which largely spoke of the duel between man and machine. Humanoids and machine parts commanded his canvases, and the artist’s mechanised worlds paid homage to one of Haslin’s favourite Japanese animes, Ghost in the Shell.

Today, those nuances have lingered, and they are joined by some other arguments. Man versus machine continues to hold court as the commanding theme, however, Haslin has depicted this battle in a more dramatized way; the very act of humans transforming into mechanised beings have been depicted with more exaggeration, emphasis, and clarity. Take Dorsiventrality, for example. In this work, the artist has portrayed a human chest (the rib cage is unmistakable), with bones elegantly morphing into cogwheels, bolts, and all.

Haslin’s tactic for altering these human forms have been shadowing and coloring techniques that have been honed over the years. Indeed, Haslin has been paying more attention to these elements as far as the human anatomy goes. And whereas before humans were portrayed more loosely, the artist has endeavoured to portray the human anatomy with more discipline this time around. ConsiderQalbu, where the very essence of the human form – bone, muscles, and organs – are exhibited in full glory; the work is more scientific than fantastical, to put it more succinctly.

Qalbu

 Other differences abound, too. Unlike his Rimbun Dahan exhibition, which featured a plethora of mediums and materials, Haslin has limited his production to drawings, watercolours, and paintings for this solo. Jute, a material he experimented with before, has been allowed to play a staring role in his paintings, offering the perfect backdrop on which to work. Of natural origin, jute’s thickness and texture affords for different characteristics; the artist explains that his many layers of paint find an ideal home with this material.

We’ll analyze the work Transfiguration, for argument’s sake. A large piece that features a tree that’s come to life, its limbs manifest across the canvas and colours pop in hallucinogenic hues. Jute paved the way for this to happen. According to Haslin, its natural properties allow the paint to shine forth and create depth for his chosen subject matter. The dramatics of his transfigurations, in short, is perfectly directed by the artist’s choice of jute over canvas, the ofttimes more reliable suspect.

If it isn’t already apparent, Haslin has markedly progressed from being a mere fantasy artist. Whilst his subject matter has roots in worlds created by individuals such as Hayao Miyazaki or H.R. Giger, his works are no longer confined to the comic book genre. Instead, the artist has attempted to inject more philosophical questions into his art. Man versus machine functions as an umbrella theme, but the themes that branch out from his main topic are manifold, and like his paint, they are multi-layered. Love and family is one of them, and so are death and transcendence, and existentialism. What the artist s

Transfiguration

eeks for audiences to investigate through his art is what it ultimately means to be human in this day and age.

Man and nature are intertwined, argues the artist, but how far does man abandon nature in favour of the machine? Just how much destruction have we caused in favour of the conveniences that machines allow, and to what end are we all willing to discard our very humanness for progress? A lot, explain Haslin’s paintings. In Human, we see these symptoms very clearly – we’re human, but in overemphasizing the machine, are we not all losing our individuality and becoming mere uniformed skeletons?

It’s been said before, but it bears repeating that Haslin’s work of late has a ‘softer’ touch than his works from as recent as a half-a-decade ago. Artist friends had spotted this first, and when questioned, Haslin confirmed their hypothesis. This change, the abandonment of macabre and horror, came along at about the same time as his first-born, a daughter. Today, the artist’s subject matter and application matches his personal life; his subject matter is less grotesque, the images aren’t as surreal, and the softer edges of his lines speak of his newfound role as a father. And adding to this are other notable changes, such as flatter surfaces and two-dimensionality – his paint application, like his life, is now more serene.

Death

So it is, as mentioned at the start of this essay, that Haslin has evolved. His works of today carry a different dimension that has evolved from humble beginnings in the land of fantasy and youth. Haslin, boy wonder, has grown up. He has transfigured, so to speak, like the very characters that you see in his art today.

For more, visit www.g13gallery.com

http://www.360celsius.com

BEAUTIFUL SPEED

The ultra-compact Lotus Elise may be viewed as too much of a trackbound weekend toy by casual enthusiasts. But its slightly larger sibling, the Lotus Exige S, may just present a more practical balance between track supremacy and road use. Known for cars with impeccable handling and power to weight ratio, Lotus has added aesthetic charm and lifestyle versatility to its appeal, thanks to the Exige S.

Traditionally, the bulk of love for Lotus cars came almost completely from seasoned auto-enthusiasts who are passionate about driving. These were the purists who understood the brand’s impeccable knack for making extremely effective sports cars. However, the move by Lotus to expand its niche with lifestyle appeal meant that up until the past decade or so, more people are beginning to look at Lotus cars not for what they would use them for, but for the pent-up potential that they were built with. The cherry topping is, of course, how equally stunning these symbols of engineering marvels look.

Since its conception in 2000, the Lotus Exige S has evolved into a highly refined sports car, securing a special place in the hearts and minds of engineers, racing enthusiasts, and laymen alike. With a 3.5 litre capable of launching the car from naught to 100 in 4.0 seconds flat, that is indeed a very powerful engine in a very small car. In practice, the setup gives the Exige S the ability to beat the mighty 5.2 litre Audi R8 V10 by a hair in terms of acceleration. Top numbers like that off with the fact that the Exige S can take corners almost as well as a Porsche GT3, and you’ve got yourself unmatched price to true power ratio.

Keep in mind, though, that a comparison like the ones that we just made are strictly based on effective power here and ignoring the bells, whistles, and bling that the R8 and GT3 are equipped with. But since those cars cost about four times more than the Exige S, the very reasonable price tag on the Exige S more than justifies its worth. Of course, the Exige S isn’t exempted from having its own brand of fun features.

There are many performance-tuned features in the Exige S, but one worth highlighting is the list of three distinct driving modes that the Bosch system can provide you with: Touring, Sport, and Race. The first mode will keep your car from skidding to avoid danger. The second gives you some leeway for mischief; a longer leash if you will. Depending on your skill level, the third will either turn you into a bull in a china shop or Kimi Raikkonen.

Described to be as nimble as a housefly by celebrity car reviewer Jeremy Clarkson, the Lotus Exige S packs a more powerful engine and more creature comfort than the zippy Elise while maintaining the potent handling that Lotus is revered for. So, be it the race tracks or city roads, the Lotus Exige S is more than ready to handle it all in style. The only question that remains is “Are you ready for it?” To secure your rightful place in the Lotus Exige S, call 03-77250182 or visit the Lotus Flagship showroom at Sg Penchala, Damansara.

http://www.360celsius.com

LIFEHACKS FOR THE REUSER

Lifehacks are just like the Kardashians. Some of them can be pretty useless, and some downright disturbing. But for every broke douchebag, there’s also a hipster with common sense wired into them. Thank goodness for that, or we wouldn’t have these sensible cheat codes a.k.a. shortcuts to life.

Re-use toilet rolls
You might have recycled them before or even (gasp) thrown them out. But these rolls can serve more than one purpose.

ORGANIZE CABLESTired of those wires and cable playing Twister in your storage box? Separate them using these toilet rolls.

 Via Instructables.com

HOLD PRESENT PAPERRubber banding wrapping paper can be tedious. Make a cut on the toilet rolls, and just snap them on.

 Via Plantinghappinessblog

Re-use bread tabs
These things are annoyingly small and annoyingly specific in shape. But there’s still other uses for them.

KEEP TABS ON THE ENDNever spend time finding the end of your tape again.

 Via jewelpie.com

MARK WIRESA great way to keep the gazillion wires trailing from your computer desk in check.

 Via Savingadvice.com

Re-use dying soap barsStick the last remnants of your old soap bar onto a new one to do justice to it.

 Via Flickr.com

Re-use old cassette casesNeed a quick iPhone stand? Just get an old cassette case and prop it up.

 Via Technoblog.in

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