- Melissa

Transcription

- Melissa

Magazine
Plastic
Paradise
alessandra ambrosio: like a prayer
jason Wu rocks again + zola jesus
alain de botton: atheism 2.0
the liturgical art of stephan doitschinoff
paradises on earth + in search of nirvana
the exquisite girls of julie verhoeven
galeria melissa opens in new york!
www.melissa.com.br
14
40
94
14 LiKE A PRAYER Victoria’s Secret Angel Alessandra Ambrosio surrenders to Melissa’s charms in an enlightened shoot at a London
Winter
2012
10 Genesis Discover the
56 Multimedia Adam
72 Transcedental The love
Dugas illustrates
for Melissa overcomes
The collection’s new
collection
paradise in NYC
cultural differences
models, in details
78 Open sea Big wave
110 Eve Top illustrator
58 Wiging it! The colorful
Melissa stylish arrival
and controversial
surfer is in heaven
Esra Røise creates a
in the Big Apple
universe of pop music
when in Hawai
breathtaking look
30 Soulful Artist blends
60 Take that ride
81 Pedro Lourenço The
street culture, folklore
Bicycles make the
prodigious designer
and religion in his work
world a better place
joins Meiissa’s team
34 Religion for atheists
62 Nirvana Travelling to
paradise? Here is the
fashion accessory of
preaches the idea!
ticket for your journey
a global community
64 Real world A selection
of natural wonders;
brand in Latin America’s
with Melissa
paradise is amongst us
main fashion event
68 Survey What is
30
for Melissa
78
84 Melissa loves Brazil The
renews his partnership
54 Cult Zola Jesus visits
26
Paradise’s new releases 94 PLASTIC SIN This edition’s Asian diva,
82 Altar Melissa is a
Alain de Botton
52 Extra, extra! Jason Wu
model Vanessa Lee in a spread gift-wrapped for you!
church 40 GODDESSES OF PAGANISM, LOVE AND FASHION English
illustrator Julie Verhoeven creates new artworks inspired by Plastic
88 Mondo Melissa
origin of Melissa’s new
26 We Love NY Galeria
Plastic
Paradise
86 Trends Sparkling glitter
SP and renews her
paradise for you? Great
and the invasion of the
Melissa collection
personalities answer
Western style
64
72
82
Editor-in-chief Erika Palomino
Editor Sergio Amaral
Assistant editor Duda Porto de Souza
Associate producer Vivi Bacco
Revisions Patrick Washburn
and Deborah Rippin
ART & Design
PEDRO FERRARO
BIZU Design com Conteúdo
Creative Director Ana Starling
and Roberto Guimarães Magazine
Design and Art Director Ana Starling
Senior Designer Teo Menna
Designer Juliana Vomero
Digital retouching
Juliana Nallini and Vivi Bacco
Graphic production Alberto Veiga
Prepress Retrato Falado
CTP, Printed by IBEP Gráfica
cover
Alessandra Ambrosio wears
dress by Alexander McQueen
and Melissa Incense Glitter
Illustration by Julie Verhoeven
for Melissa VIRTUE and
MELISSA PROTECTION
Check out the photo shoot
on page 18
Check out the full story
on page 44
IN THIS ISSUE Alexander McQueen alexandermcqueen.com Alexandre Herchcovitch
herchcovitch.uol.com.br Azzedine Alaïa nkstore.com.br Balmain balmain.com Chanel
chanel.com Christian Dior dior.com Christopher Kane christopherkane.com D&G
dolcegabbana.com Gareth Pugh garethpugh.net Givenchy givenchy.com Hermès
hermes.com Huishan Zhang huishanzhang.com I.D Sarrierri sarrieri.com Izmaylova
izmaylova.co.uk J.Maskrey jmaskrey.com Jason Wu jasonwustudio.com Jeremy Scott
jeremyscott.com John Rocha johnrocha.ie Juliana Jabour julianajabour.com.br Lanvin
lanvin.com Louise Gray louisegraylondon.com Marios Schwab mariosschwab.com
Mary Katrantzou marykatrantzou.com Melissa melissa.com.br Moschino moschino.
it Nina Ricci ninaricci.com Osklen osklen.com Reinaldo Lourenço reinaldolourenco.
com Stella McCartney stellamccartney.com Triton triton.com.br Versus versace.com
Vivienne Westwood viviennewestwood.co.uk
Arthur Veríssimo, Charlotte Lawton,
Cheryl Konteh, Chisato, Chris Bicalho,
coletivoCRU, Cordelia Weston, Eamonn
Hughes, Esra Rosie, Flavio Teperman,
Frank Dezeuxis, Gisela Rao, Glenis
Baptiste, Ilana Rehavia, Jed Skrzypczak,
Jeon Seung Hwan, Julie Verhoeven,
Kenichi, Kenny Campbell, Maíra
Goldschmidt, Marcio Madeira, Michael
Furlonger, Murillo Chibana, Neil Stuart,
Nina Lemos, Pedro Diniz, Pedro Ferraro,
Renata Falzoni, Romeu Silveira, Ronald
Villardo, Sandrine Dulermo & Michael
Labica and Valeria Ferreira
examine different religions in
an effort to understand their
interpretations. There are those
interpretation of paradise.
who think that it is represen-
We came back with the
ted by a deserted beach and
perception that paradise can
others who find paradise by
be anywhere we want it to be,
doing good deeds to try and
whether we are a believer or
get to heaven. Since the begin-
non believer (or somewhere in
ning of Western and Christian
between). As Dani Sanchez, a
religious practices, paradise
Kardek Spiritist fan of Melissa
or the “ideal world” has been
states “To mix all we think is
represented by the Garden
good is to create the religion
of Eden where Adam and Eve
of loving the next person”(see
are dressed only in fig leaves.
“My piece of heaven”, p.72)
Without oversimplifying,
Finally, for number 7, we
paradise is a place without
begin a new phase for PLASTIC
conflict where all people live
DREAMS, with a new format
in harmony. Utopia? At Melissa
(easier to carry) and a new
we are rather fond of the idea
graphic project, created by
of Utopia, therefore, the dream
Ana Starling, from the presti-
continues. Without dreams life
gious Bizu Design. She, along
would be a much duller place.
with Roberto Guimarães, share
That is a fact.
the job of Creation Director. In
We did our homework to
te the opening of the first
paradise further. Our research
international Galeria Melissa in
special thanks
team visited Turkey and Israel.
New York. We, from Melissa,
Alana Mann, Clare McShane and the
Melissa UK team, Drika Satkunas, Fabia
Bercsek, Harriet Spence @ H.PR, Isabel
Monsanto @ Warner Music Brasil,
Kathryn Scahill @ CLM, Lucas Rehnman,
Miro, Nationalgalerie Berlin, Noelly
Russo and Pedro Palomino
It provided an opportunity to
are in heaven.
MELISSA
Edson Matsuo, Fernando Serrudo
da Silva, Francyne Dagostini, Karina
Rechenmacher, Luciana Carboni Ceccon,
Paulo Pedó Filho e Raquel Metz Scherer
WE GIVE YOU PLASTIC
DREAMS 7, FROM THE
COLLECTION PLASTIC PARADISE
this edition we also celebra-
investigate the concept of
juliana knobel
Sandrine Dulermo & Michael Labica
contributors
Paradise is a very personal
concept that allows for several
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Erika Palomino
Billy Farrell/BFAnyc.com
Eduardo Jordão de Magalhães,
Erika Palomino, Márcio Cócaro
Paulo Pedó Filho, Raquel Metz Scherer
and Rodrigo Leão
COURTESY OF CHOQUE CULTURAL
OMG! Melissa
is divine!
creative directors
Top: inside Galeria Melissa,
opened last February 8th
in New York; at the center:
Saint Luzia chapel in Lençóis,
Bahia, painted by Stephan
Doitschinoff; to the right: the
altar at the Nativity Church in
Bethlehem, Palestine
pedro PALOMINO
Plastic
Dreams
07
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Plastic Dreams
7
Plastic Paradise Winter 2012
Dream Team
CHECK OUT THE TEAM OF PHOTOGRAPHERS, MAKEUP ARTISTS,
STYLISTS, SET DESIGNERS AND ILLUSTRATORS THAT
BRIGHTENED MELISSA’S PARADISE.
Esra Røise
The acclaimed Norwegian illustrator, who
lives and works in Oslo, has already collaborated with renowned publications such as
“Vogue” China, “Wallpaper”, “Nylon”, “Spin”,
and “VICE”. Making her debut with Melissa,
she prepared a very special and unique illustration for the magazine, with her delicate
and feminine trace, which we baptized as
“Dreaming of Eve”. See page 110.
Arthur Verissimo
A special reporter
for “Trip” magazine
for over 25 years,
this compulsive
traveller writes one
of this edition’s
highlights: the text
“Nirvana in the
Highest”, in which
he tells about
a magical flight
over the highest peaks on the
globe. The father
of three sons and
a DJ Zegon fan, the
author of the book
“Karmapop” and
the DVD “Strange
Planet: Exotic India”
delivered his work
and flew happily for
another season in
the Himalayas. See
page 62.
Tom Ellis
Londoner filmmaker Tom Ellis
captured the mood and energy
around the church that served as
the background for our striking
cover shoot. Tireless in his efforts
to register all the nuances of
the day, you could find him
perched on steps or twisted in
crazy angles. “I’m very visual
and always had a passion for
moving images, and how you
can really develop a story with
them”, he explains. Tom started
his career as an apprentice and
camera assistant in movies and
TV commercials. Nowadays,
he directs and shoots his own
projects, such as video art pieces
for the Frieze Art Fair and the
Royal Opera House, in London.
Check it out at youtube.com/
melissachannel.
Valeria Ferreira
One of the most memorable
moments in Uruguayan makeup
artist Valeria Ferreira’s career
was working with Madonna for
the star’s collection for H&M.
After a daylong shoot, she was
invited to party with the singer
and her friends – including the
Beatle Paul McCartney, and the
Bond actor Daniel Craig. It’s all
in a day’s job for Valeria, who
has also worked with Spanish
director Pedro Almodóvar and
brands such as Burberry and
Levi’s. Inspired by the human
race, colour and nature, she created the beautiful looks for the
already gorgeous Vanessa Lee.
“Working with Melissa is great as
it is always very fun and inspirational, where I can be myself
and create beautiful, stylish and
fierce characters.” See page 94.
Cordelia Weston
British set designer Cordelia
Weston knows that in her
job she needs to always be
prepared. Like when she was
expecting a tiger cub for a shoot,
but ended up receiving a lamb.
“Smile, stay calm and be ready
to be on call at all times” is her
motto. The daughter of interior
designers, Cordelia grew up
in a beautiful London house
surrounded by antiques and
wallpapered walls. Her love of
beautiful objects led her to work
in the art department for film
and television, and from there
she veered into the fashion
universe after moving to East
London, eight years ago, and
meeting the creative crowd that
inhabits the area. She created
the huge metallic set for the
shoot with model Vanessa Lee.
See page 94.
Pedro Ferraro
With a degree in Journalism, Brazilian
photographer Pedro Ferraro looks at his
trade with the eyes of a reporter: “The day
to day, the humanistic side of things inspires
me”, says Ferraro, who shot the beautiful
making-of photos for this issue of Plastic
Dreams. The London he now calls home is
another constant source of inspiration. “The
building where I live, for example, inspires
me a lot, being a mixture of African and
Pakistani families with the East London
hipsters. I love this social schizophrenia.”
These days, besides doing photojournalism
assignments for Brazilian websites, Ferraro
is shooting catalogues for emerging
designers and portraits for working actors.
See page 24.
Jeon Seung Hwan
Korean photographer Jeon
Seung Hwan is an avid consumer of visual material from
films, paintings, animation,
documentaries, TV and old
magazines, which he uses as
inspiration for his striking work.
After graduating from the
London College of Printing and
spending four years assisting
Norwegian photographer Sølve
Sundsbø, he went solo in 2008
and quickly made a name for
himself shooting for magazines
like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and
Numéro. “My focus is on interesting contrasts of feelings and
aesthetics. I don’t like it when
things are obviously too cool
or too fashionable.” Making his
debut with Melissa, he is the
author of the beautiful images
of the “Plastic Sin” editorial.
See page 94.
Duda Porto
de Souza
A team prodigy,
this 27 year-old has
been a reporter,
plastic artist, curator
and gallerist. She
has also been with
PLASTIC DREAMS
since its beginning
in 2009, and travels
the world searching for inspiring
projects. For this
edition, she promoted the meeting
between Melissa
fans from different
religions (p. 72),
hunted for Melissa
collectors (p. 82)
and organized
our publication
deadline, now as
assistant editor.
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Plastic Dreams
Chris Bicalho
With know-how filled luggage and the
memories of someone who’s visited the most
charming places in the world, the director of
travel agency B360 is an expert in creating
special vacations for those who seek fun,
gastronomy, fashion, sports, arts and design.
For this edition she prepared a custom
made holiday filled with paradisiacal global
destinations. See page 64.
Eamonn Hughes
Hairstylist Eamonn Hughes likes to be handson when working on a project. During the
Plastic Dreams cover shoot, he could be
seen waving a big piece of Styrofoam to
create a gentle wind effect on Alessandra
Ambrosio’s hair. Fast becoming a veteran
member of our amazing team, he also works
with the likes of Lady Gaga, “Vogue”, and
“GQ Style”. Recently, he travelled around
Nashville, USA, transforming photographer
Alice Hawkins into a tribute to country music
legend Dolly Parton for magazine “Ponystep”.
See page 14.
Charlotte Lawton
An expert in creating surreal, dreamlike
environments, she spent days planning
how to bring a little Mexican warmth to
the cold English church where our cover
story was shot. Her inspiration comes from
the fairytales that she still loves, and now
reads for her two children. “Photography is
escapism and an exaggeration of realism
and that’s what interests me.” She started
designing sets for theatre productions after
studying landscape painting at Central Saint
Martins. The freedom and pace of fashion
photography, however, suited her better and
her talent was soon spotted by masters of
the craft. One of her first jobs was to create
a pastel colored ball scenario with iconic
photographer Tim Walker for Italian “Vogue”.
See page 14.
9
Adam Dugas
Adam Dugas is a director, producer, writer,
singer, and actor based in New York City. He
is currently finishing post-production work
on the feature film DUST, which he wrote, directed and photographed with Casey Spooner.
Dugas also contributes video pieces for the
New York Times “T Magazine” with Spooner
and together they co-directed a year of
short documentary portraits of artists for the
website Imagine Fashion including subjects
like Chloe Sevigny, Marina Abramovic, and
James Franco. Adam’s original shows include
UNHOLY NIGHT and DUELING HARPS (with Ann
Magnuson). As Adam & Mia he released two
EPs of duets with harpist Mia Theodoratus
and appeared in Shanghai, Vienna, New York
and Los Angeles. See page 56.
Glenis Baptiste
Working in a bank, Baptiste
one day decided to use her
lunch break to check out the
newly opened nail parlour.
“I was hooked and realized I
found the perfect outlet for my
interest in fashion and style.”
That was 15 years ago and
she has never looked back.
Glenis is a permanent fixture
at London Fashion Week and
also creates beautiful nail art
for shoots, campaigns and
celebrities, like she did for our
cover story. No wonder she has
an insider scoop and even a
helping hand in the upcoming
trends. “Next season’s nails are
natural shaped, not too long,
and the colors will be bright.
Lots of vibrant purples, pinks
and yellows.” See page 14.
Kenneth Campbell
With a prolific career that started
in the 1980s, he has collaborated
with iconic magazines such as
“The Face”, “i-D” and “Blitz”,
amongst many others. Since his
early days, when he was already
obsessed with music, nightlife,
dressing up and performing, his
enthusiasm has never wavered
on the backstage of “Like a
prayer”. Today, he enjoys editing
the edgy fashion and culture
website KCTV, which he calls
his “fun project” and working
with interesting clients such as
actress Tilda Swinton. “On her,
I like the absence of color, but I
am done with the nude trend”,
he decrees. “I’m really into
bright hues at the moment, like
purples and emerald greens.”
See page 14.
Renata Falzoni
This journalist and
biker founded the
Night Bikers group
and is the host of TV
show “Adventures
with Renata
Falzoni”, which
airs on ESPN Brasil.
She shares with
PLASTIC DREAMS
some experiences
of her 30 years of
riding two-wheeled
in several cities
around the globe.
See page 60.
Plastic Dreams
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REPRODUCTION
THE SEASON’S
GENESIS
01
02
03
To create its Winter collection Plastic Paradise,
Melissa’s team researched the concept of
paradise associated with different religions
in a number of sacred places around
the world. They also explored the
themes of strength and faith
as it relates to fashion,
pop culture and art.
DAN MACMEDAN
09
05
04
Text Erika Palomino
Photos Pedro
Palomino
marcio madeira
07
10
06
01 Kate Moss is
depicted as a pious
woman on the cover
of “W” (March/2012)
with the title
“Spring’s Fashion
Bible” 02 43m dome
of the powerful
Blue Mosque, in
Istanbul, with over
20 thousand blue
tiles 03 Singer Nicki
Minaj arrives at the
last Grammy Awards,
escorted by a man
dressed as the Pope
04 Madonna, once
again, covered in
crucifixes for her new
CD, “MDNA” 05 Dolce
& Gabbana Fall 2012
inspired by baroque
religious traditions
06 Towel with the
image of Jesus, as
seen in Jerusalem 07
Artwork assembled
at the Liverpool
Cathedral by English
artist Tracy Emin 08
Jeremy Scott Winter
2011. On the opposite
page, Michelangelo’s
work on ceiling of the
Sistine Chapel
09 MELISSA
ULTRAGIRL
+ JASON WU
BARRY HALE / COURTESY WHITE CUBE
10 Melissa
FURADINHA
08
How have our souls been
es where religiosities express
were the inspiration for several
about plastic and the associ-
For Melissa, paradise is all
inspired by mythology, creeds,
themselves at their utmost. We
styles used in Plastic Paradise
ated dreams. Upon entering
rituals and religious stories?
visited mosques and palaces
collection. Products such as
“Galeria Melisa” there is the
In turbulent times, Me-
in Istanbul, formerly Constanti-
Melissa Cross, Melissa Ultragirl
sense that one is entering
lissa espouses the peaceful
nople, where the strait of Bos-
Glitter, and Vivienne Westwood
paradise. The eye is capti-
coexistence of all people. This
porus divides Europe from Asia.
Anglomania + Melissa Sky-
vated by styles such as Melissa
includes mutual respect for the
It was here that we saw the
scraper all use forms of gold.
Celestial which was inspired
individual as well as tolerance
grand Hagia Sophia. We were
by Louis XV style shoes with
for cultural diversity. This is
constantly reminded of religion
snow covered roads to Anatolia
grosgrain laces, as well as the
especially important as borders
as we heard the impressive
arriving in Cappadocia where
Melissa Union, a retro sneaker
dissipate as a result of com-
calls to prayer announced
we found a peculiar, almost
everyone is bound to want.
munication technology.
everywhere from loudspeakers,
lunar, landscape (the setting
five times a day.
of several scenes from the
As we talk about paradise
Melissa’s team did its field-
we also examine who we truly
work in search of references,
are and how we are influenced.
colors, and local life experienc-
Still in Turkey, we crossed
The gold tones from the
“Star Wars” saga). It was in the
Turkish mosaics and frescos
unbelievable desert mountains
01
01 Golden mosaic of
Chora, a Byzantine
church in Istanbul
02 Jon Bon Jovi proves
he’s not dead, joking
that heaven looks like
New Jersey, USA
03 In the mosque of
Hagia Sophia, visitors
put their hands in a
hole on the marble
and make a wish that
will come true if the
fingers comes out
moist 04 “Book with
Wings”, from German
artist Anselm Kiefer
05 Image by Thai
photographer Nat
Prakobsantisuk
06 Muslim woman inside the Blue Mosque,
in Istanbul
WARREN WINTER
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02
07
06
PHOTOS marcio madeira
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Plastic Dreams
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11
03
04
REPRODUCTION
13 Melissa CROSS
14 MELISSA MOON
07 Versace Fall 2012
Desfile inspired by
Gianni Versace’s last
collection 08 The
Wailing Wall, a sacred
places for Jews in
Jerusalem, with a
section to the right
reserved to women,
who must never have
their backs facing it
09 Hagia Sophia,
a basilica turned
into a mosque by
the Ottomans, in
Turkey 10 Alexandre
Herchcovitch Winter
2012 fashion show,
with references to
orthodox Jews
11 Orthodox Christian
garment sold in the
streets of Jerusalem
12 Goreme, in
Cappadocia, with
churches and
caves carved in the
mountains
Nat Prakobsantisuk
15 Melissa
celestial
14
that the first monks carved
because they are interested in
houses, churches, and dining
both its freshness and its pecu-
halls. The monks settled here
liar cosmopolitan way.
to escape religious persecution.
Although old Jerusalem is
elevated to the sky.
15
05
12
face with places such as the
representing every creed and
Fashion designer Ricardo Tisci
Wailing Wall (considered a
cult, selling everything from
chose the theme for his special
live here as well in the shadow
remnant piece of the original
towels with images of Jesus,
edition of the prestigious pub-
Scott wrote the word GOD in
the catwalks. A lot of Byzantine
of these other religions,
Holy Temple which is sacred for
and little lamb figurines, to
lication “Visionaire”. Kate Moss
a Coca-Cola-type font for his
crucifixes and gothic beauty
rosaries and incense.
is depicted as a pious woman
last collection of dresses and
were present throughout the
on the March 2012 cover of
men’s fashion.
entire show.
Paradoxically, Palestinians
hood and adolescence).
Irreverent as well, Jeremy
a somber (although sensual)
atmosphere, which took over
That’s the reason the place is
the sacred city to the three
separated by frontiers in small
Jews), the Church of the Holy
considered to be one of the
monotheistic religions it is also
communities such as Bethle-
Sepulcher or Via Dolorosa (for
The experience is strong and
origins of Christianity.
a place of intense tensions.
hem. One should also take into
Christians, it’s the famous Via
intense. To be so close to such a
“W”. Madonna is religious once
For Judaism the city is the
account that throughout history
Crucis, where Jesus carried his
large number of believers pray-
again, covered in crucifixes for
ter 2012 show, in March, the
religion or a never ever ending
Israel, which is considered to be
kingdom of David and Solomon.
Jerusalem was surrounded 50
cross), and mosques such as
ing for a better day makes one
her new release, “MDNA”. And
inspiration was clearly religious,
trip that seeks the most beauti-
the current center of the world’s
For Christians it is the Sacred
times, conquered 36 times, and
the majestic Dome of the Rock,
wish that Earth truly was an
singer Jon Bon Jovi, quash-
with embroidery, black and
ful beaches, it’s about provoking
religious cauldron, and home to
City connected to Jesus’ death,
destroyed twice. The result is a
restricted to only Muslims for
idyllic paradise where everyone
ing rumors of his own death,
white lace, gold, and acces-
in us the desire to search for the
the largest Jewish community
resurrection and ascension.
great deal of energy concen-
their prayers.
coexists in peace and harmony.
“resurrected” around Christmas
sories in the form of angels.
best in ourselves _ looking for
since the Diaspora. The young
For Muslims, Jerusalem is the
trated in the same area.
Will we make it someday?
time in a good-humored poster
At Versace, Donatella drew
our essence. It’s also for all you
and effervescent city of Tel Aviv
third most sacred city after
Meanwhile in art and fash-
stating that “Heaven looks a lot
inspiration from the last collec-
ecstatic Melissa fans, a new col-
is ever changing and continu-
Mecca and Medina. It is where
a turn down one of the many
occurrence appears, religious
ion, references to paradises and
like New Jersey”, (the American
tion designed by her brother
lection of styles. Welcome, you
ously developing. Visitors arrive
the prophet Muhammad was
small streets to come face to
tourism. Venders, side by side,
religion still frequently appear.
state where he spent his child-
Gianni, who died in 1997, with
have arrived in Paradise!
From there we went on to
In the Old City it takes only
On these little streets,
however, another curious
At the Dolce & Gabbana win-
Plastic Paradise isn’t about
14
Plastic Dreams
Like in a dream, amongst candles, altars,
images of saints and angels, in a london
19th century church, top model
alessandra ambrosio gives
a celestial atmosphere
to melissa’s winter
2012 collection.
go behind the scenes of this photo shoot
and check out the footbook on
youtube.com/melissachannel
*Due to print reproduction
some styles may suffer
color distortion. Not all
styles shown are
currently available.
CREATIVE DIRECTION EDUARDO JORDAO DE MAGALHAES & NEIL
STUART PHOTOGRAPHY SANDRINE DULERMO & MICHAEL
LABICA FASHION DIRECTOR NEIL STUART
FASHION EDITOR CHERYL KONTEH
SET DESIGNER CHARLOTTE LAWTON
HAIR EAMONN HUGHES
MAKE UP KENNY CAMPBELL
MANICURIST GLENIS
BAPTISTE
dress CHRISTOPHER KANE
Melissa Incense
15
Plastic
Dreams ZHANG
dress HUISHAN
lace head dress VIVIENNE WESTWOOD
Melissa Protection
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17
Plastic Dreams
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dress VIVIENNE WESTWOOD
top NINA RICCI
skirt D&G
jewelry J. MASKREY
VIVIENNE WESTWOOD ANGLOMANIA + MELISSA GILLIE
Melissa VirtuE Special
Plastic Dreams
dress AZZEDINE ALAÏA
20
Melissa Devotion
Plastic
Paradise
Winter 2012
dress JOHN
ROCHA
Melissa no. 1 + pedro lourenço
21
PlasticLOUISE
Dreams GRAY
dress
Melissa Virtue
22
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colorful paintings of Mexican
process and create something
artists Diego Rivera and Frida
with my name.”
Kahlo. This contemporary twist
Text
Ilana Rehavia
mous duo, the artists Gilbert &
perfect partner for this adven-
George, known for their graphic
ture and her eyes sparkle when
Photos
Pedro Ferraro
and bright work, which often
she talks about her upcoming
resembles cheeky religious
collection. “I’m preparing
stained glass.
Alessandra poses in romantic
something that represents
my taste and my style. I
have to love my shoes, to
want to wear them every
day.” The collaboration is also
dresses while the rest of the
exciting little Anja, who only
crew warms up in woolly hats
swaps walking barefoot for one
The two prominent Mexican artists lived a turbulent conjugal
relationship and made history with paintings that reaffirmed
their origin and their national culture. In the photos starring
Alessandra Ambrosio, PLASTIC DREAMS team proposes a
modern version of the artworks of the couple.
and scarves. Between photos
of her Mini Melissas.
www.fkahlo.com | www.diegorivera.com
to make much of a difference.
fashion editor Cheryl Konteh
model. “Having a child brings us
fluffy blanket, yet Alessandra
back to the real world. I started
never complains. With 15 years
modelling at 15, and got into
of experience behind her she is
a world full of glamour and
every inch the professional.
fantasy. Sometimes, we can
PHOTOS PEDRO FERRARO
The beautiful Alessandra Ambrosio poses for Sandrine Dulermo
& Michael Labica at St. Mary Magdalene church, in London
forget about the simple things.
when she was a teenager and
Maternity reminds you about
has been working ever since.
what really matters in life.”
As one of the “Angels” of the
During the long photo
lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret,
session, Alessandra’s enthu-
Alessandra has that special mix
siasm never wavered, and
of sensuality and innocence,
is matched by the energy
which makes it impossible to
of Melissa’s dream team.
stop staring at her. She is also
While French photography
one of the few models who
duo Sandrine Dulermo and
can move with ease between
Michael Labica adjust lenses
the commercial market and the
and flashes for yet another
more conceptual side of fashion.
look, the model takes advan-
She shines while wearing a
tage of the break to snap the
huge set of wings and lingerie
beautiful surroundings on her
on the catwalk and featuring
phone. Soon, a photo of the
on the “Sexiest Women Alive”
church appears in her Twitter
lists. She is also at home on the
feed. “Shooting an amaz-
ing project in a beautiful
church in London!! So
excited!!!” says the tweet.
stones of the old church which
friends around the beaches
pages of the edgy magazine
London. Right in the middle of
was built at the end of the
of Florianópolis, in southern
“LOVE” and working for high-
the city, however, the beautiful
19th century. And in the midst
Brazil. “The beach is my
end houses such as Giles, Louis
St. Mary Magdalene church
of this striking scene, Brazilian
Vuitton, Prada and D&G.
seems to belong to a different
supermodel Alessandra
paradise, is where I am
the happiest”, she says.
universe. Thousands of flowers
Ambrosio is an apparition.
Back in the London church,
is a great way to keep in direct
ing for Alessandra, who is
contact with my public and
accompanied by her three year
Alessandra represents perfectly
working on her first collection
show them what’s real. Now,
old daughter, Anja, Alessandra
the paradise theme of this issue
in collaboration with Melissa.
for example, they are very curi-
Charlotte Lawton and her team.
has that special glow. This glow
of Plastic Dreams. The idea
ous, speculating about what I
This explosion of colour is a
can also be attributed to the
behind the shoot is to create a
“I was looking for something beyond modelling,
holiday spent with family and
modern interpretation of the
to get involved in the creative
the tireless work of set designer
warming contrast to the grey
The façade of the church
With dynamic personalities in both their personal and artistic
lives for more than 40 years (they met at Central St. Martins
in 1968), Gilbert Proesch and George Passmore gained
notoriety by creating artworks with a political appeal, where
elements of their daily lives are also a highlight. In “Like a
Prayer”, we were inspired by the colors and graphics of their
aesthetics, making every resulting image more vibrant!
http://whitecube.com/artists/gilbert_george/
Alessandra has more than
the day has a special mean-
for Melissa’s shoot, thanks to
Gilbert & George
280,000 followers. “I believe it
personally and professionally,
Living a great moment
Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera
Maternity seems to suit the
hurries to wrap the model in a
The model was discovered
Five months pregnant and
discover the artists and artworks that
inspired the cover page editorial of this
edition of plastic dreams.
wearing all her life, was the
the strong gas heaters manage
and candles decorate its crypt
More about this photo shoot
is inspired by yet another fa-
In the cold church not even
It is a cold, rainy day in
Melissa, which she has been
images reproduction
Holy
Alessandra!
Brazilian top model who seduced
the world reveals that she
is a fan of Melissa, and
signs two special
styles for the
brand.
25
am doing in London.”
Well, mystery solved!
Image reproduction
Plastic Dreams
Plastic Dreams
26
27
Façade and interior of Galeria Melissa NY
WE LOVE NEW YORK
Melissa inaugurates
its first overseas
store in New York’s
SoHO; Marc Jacobs,
Dita Von Teese and
other top fashionistas
join in the celebration.
Photos
Billy Farrell/BFAnyc.com
On the eve of the start of
Fashion Week in NY, Melissa
want a blessing like this?
Conceived as a site-specific
Edson Matsuo, the Mentor of
Melissa. Matsuo, together with
brought together an exciting
project for the Big Apple,
architect Domingos Pascali, is
group of fashionistas for the
Galeria Melissa New York cre-
responsible for the project.
opening of the first interna-
ates an alternative to the city’s
Emerging from this idea,
tional Galeria Melissa. The
accelerated pace through an ar-
stalagmites, “natural” reliefs
chosen address is 102 Greene
chitectural design which evokes
and the lines of the urban plan
Street, SoHo, a fashion hotspot
an introspective consumer ex-
of SoHo appear on the floor,
with stores such as Stella
perience; an oasis of tranquility
walls and ceiling design. The
McCartney, Apple and Marc
amidst the chaos of the region.
idea of the cavern is reinforced
Jacobs, amongst so many oth-
“We created an urban cavern,
by an open space in the shape
ers. Marc Jacobs himself came
a space which awakens the
of a large stone at the back of
to welcome Melissa to the
feelings of nurturing, shelter,
the store. This will serve as an
neighbourhood! Who wouldn’t
mystery and adventure”, says
exhibition area for artworks.
28
Plastic Dreams
01
29
02
09 Brazilian top model Jeísa Chiminazzo 10 Artist Eli Sudbrack,
one of the creators of avaf project, the first artist to
show his artwork at Galeria Melissa NY 11 Actress
Vanessa Hudgens 12 Actor James Marshall, and
model Elettra Rosselini-Weidermann 13
Alessandra Ambrosio, model and
newest partner of the brand,
wearing Melissa Incense
Glitter, from her
style line for
Melissa
09
10
11
12
13
03
04
The strength of the project is
05
06
world. In 2010 their art was
not the main star of the show”,
featured in the visual mate-
says Edson. “It is present with-
rial of Comme des Garçons.
out being, providing a mutat-
They also were responsible for
ing area in the composition of
creating the set for Lady Gaga’s
product display, use of colors
Workshop, for Barneys NY 2011
and patterns. There is total
Christmas display.
07
freedom for the creation of set
08
design projects in co-creation
not have been more perfect:
with invited artists, designers
they gave a very special atmo-
and architects”, he reveals.
sphere to the space, with an
For the opening, Melissa
01 designer
Marc Jacobs, who
also has a store located
in SoHo, came by to welcome
the new neighbour 02 Fashion
designer Jason Wu, Melissa’s partner
and a favorite of the new American fashion
scene 03 Actress Amanda Setton, from “Gossip
Girl” 04 Cecilia Dean, mentor of the prestigious publication “Visionaire” 05 PR Lorenzo Martone 06 Artist Bec
Stupak 07 Performer and burlesque artist Dita Von Teese
08 Designer Whitney Port, who starred in two MTV reality shows
important museums in the
the subtlety, the fact that it is
The avaf partnership could
animated sculpture made out of
invited the award-winning avaf
colorful neon tubes, for the win-
project, led by Brazilian artist
dow display; a wall made out of
Eli Sudbrack and French artist
sequins and an amazing video
Christophe Hamaide-Pierson, to
projection shown at the far end
illustrate the space. Known for
of the store. “Here in New York,
their surprising art installations
everyone already knows what
featuring drawings in exuber-
is Melissa, women know the
ant color, form and detail, avaf
brand, everyone loves it. I think
has already had their work
the store will be a major hit in
displayed in some of the most
the city”, says Eli. YES!
30
Plastic Dreams
31
PHOTOS courtesy of choque cultural
01
01 A Cruz, 2012
02 Contra Tudo, 2012
03 Cramunhão, 2012
04 Image from the
performance Brilho
do Sol, 2011
02
03
It’s in a room with white
SACRED
TALENT
Text Pedro Diniz
Photos Flavio Teperman
THE SON OF AN EVANGELICAL
PREACHER AND GRANDSON
OF A SPIRITUALIST, STEPHAN
DOITSCHINOFF CREATES MOVING AND
MYSTERIOUS WORKS OF ART, FUSIONING STREET
ART, FOLKLORE, POPULAR CULTURE AND RELIGION.
I finish it” he says. He then
canvases, noticeboards and
offered me a chair and says
Iberian masks, remnants of his
“If you don’t mind, I’ll stand. I
last exhibition (”Brightness of
work seated for many hours.”
the Sun”), Lisbon, July 2011,
The artist wanted to talk
that Stephan Doitschinoff, 34,
about the ambiguity of his Por-
spends most of his time.
tuguese experience, a country
Upon arriving at his Sao
04
people seeing my work before
walls adorned with unfinished
where he has studied the folk-
Paulo apartment, I noticed one
lore and roots of local culture,
of his works of art sitting on
in cities such as Braga and
the table, which he promptly
Lazarim. He also wanted to talk
wrapped up. “I don’t like
about the exhibition of Three
32
33
cortesia choque cultural
Plastic Dreams
02
01 Agricultura
Celeste, 2010
02-04 Pieces, de-
01
03
04
05
tails, and works in
the artist’s studio
05 Capela Santa
Luzia, in Lençóis,
Bahia, 2002
Multiples: the sculpture “A
Sao Paulo-born artist grew up
trated his story. Without any for-
he has been a macrobiotic
an illustrated compendium
plying his skills which ultimately
curious about my job. But these
January. He had a solo show at
Cruz”, the engravings “Contra
experiencing cults and seeing
mal education in art he learned
vegan and lived in Hare Krishna
of “Erotic Japanese Art”. “Our
transformed the city of Lençóis.
figurations were a part of its
Jonathan Levine Gallery, in New
Tudo” and “Cramunhão” which
his parents work in temples.
to draw by himself. At 16, he
communities. He has also
values are intimately connected
Stephan lived in Lençóis for
history, it was a natural pro-
York, titled “New Asceticism”,
began to work with other artists
drawn for rock bands such as
with religion.”
three years (2005-2008) and
cess. There, people manifested
which explored the human
like set designer Zé Carratú.
Black Sabbath and Bad Religion.
It was under the alias Calma,
during that time he gave his
their culture in a crude way,
search for a full and meaningful
an abbreviation of “with soul” in
public an up close look at the
conserving the religious roots.
life away from social alienation.
Portuguese, that the artist began
omnipresent symbols that are
It was a complete immersion”,
his famous projects of installa-
reflected in his art. “I
he recalls.
and printed in the book “Calma:
lived
next to people who experience sacred elements,
superstition, and folklore, it was all there.” He
The Art of Stephan Doitschinoff”.
is hand painted. These are
“There was constant contact
currently on display at Choque
with religion. I was a bigger
Cultural, a Brazilian gallery.
part of it than any other boy
my age. When I began study-
my own creative process. It
enced by those who seek to
ing mythology and the origin
begins on a small scale using
understand it. His work speaks
of beliefs, I realized I already
vegetable parchment. After
about the relationship between
knew them. All of those sym-
that, I transfer the drawing to a
humans and icons of both sa-
bols were pretty obvious and
bigger surface and only when
“But I wanted to deepen
my research about the
influence of religion and
myths in human relationships. To transform these
images into public art”,
cred and urban art. He does this
present in my life”, says the
I’m sure of what I want, do I
explained the artist.
through paintings, sculptures,
artist, laughing when recalling
put it all on the canvas. Images
and installations. Being the son
childhood memories.
change a lot in this journey
Holy Bible shares space with
from micro to macrocosms”,
he explains.
Stephan’s direction is influ-
of an Evangelical preacher of
At 13, full of reflections from
Bulgarian origin and the grand-
his past and with an appetite
son of a Kardec Spiritualists, the
for his own way, Stephan illus-
“I like the idea of building
Full of practical knowledge,
tions in public spaces. One of his
“People try to chew down the
complexity of things. They are
When he returned to Sao
limitative”, he says. An example
Paulo he decided to pursue the
of this conflict is the concept be-
idea and get close to popular
hind the sacred and the profane,
manifestations in big urban
adjectives that are easily given
painted houses, gravestones,
centers. In 2011, he was part
to his body of work. “These
The book was released in 2008
and walls, transforming the city
of an exhibition called “From
terms transmit a prejudiced idea
titles such as Dante Alighieri’s
with a short documentary called
into one large work of art.
Inside Out/From Outside In”
about what’s right and what’s
“The Divine Comedy”, the
“Temporal” (a storm, in Portu-
displayed at the Museum of
“Jewish Encyclopedia” and
guese). It showed Stephan ap-
wrong. We can’t be simplistic. It’s all relative.”
In his little private library the
most emblematic works was created in the city of Lençóis, Bahia,
“It was interesting how the
people who lived there were
Art of Sao Paulo (Masp), until
34
Plastic Dreams
35
vincent starr
Art is
salvation
Having Alain de Botton on board for this edition was a must. In the following
interview he explains his Atheism 2.o proposal which he expands on in his most
recent book titled “Religion and Atheists”. He also talks about his visionary
educational project “The School of Life” which he started in London in 2008,
and continues to support. Alain is the author of numerous books which examine
topics related to love (falling in and out of love), travel (psychology associated
with travel) architecture (the associated beauty and ugliness) and status
anxiety (what others think of us). In his writings he asks and answers questions
that we rarely take the time to examine for ourselves and then presents an
alternative “philosophy of everyday life”. His alternative way of looking at the
world is refreshing and suggests that without questioning or examining “why”
we do what we do, then perhaps we are less likely to fully understand who we
are as a person. Enjoy!
Text Duda Porto de Souza
Plastic Dreams After the
creation of so many “doctrines
to live better lives”, human
beings still seem far away from
living in peace with each other
and with nature. Why do you
think we still have not learned
the lesson?
Alain de Botton We all know
structure; they want to build
in theory what we should do
calendars for us that will make
to be good. The problem is
sure that we regularly encoun-
that in practice, we forget.
ter reminders of significant
And we forget because the
concepts. That is what rituals
modern secular world always
are: they are attempts to make
thinks that it is enough to tell
vivid to us things we already
someone something once (be
know, but are likely to have for-
good, remember the poor etc.)
gotten. Religions are also keen
But all religions disagree here:
to see us as more than just
they insist that if anyone is
rational minds, we are emo-
to stand a chance of remem-
tional and physical creatures,
bering anything, they need
and therefore, we need to be
reminders on a daily, perhaps
seduced via our bodies and our
even hourly basis.
senses too: this was always the
The secular world believes
great genius of Catholicism. If
that if we have good ideas,
you want to change someone’s
we will be reminded of them
ideas, don’t only concentrate on
just when it matters. Religions
their ideas, concentrate on their
don’t agree. They are all about
whole selves.
British philosopher Alain de Botton
36
PD If you could choose one
teaching or ritual from religion
that could transform the lives of
the people of today, related to
beauty or knowledge, which one
would it be and why?
AB You often hear it said that
Christianity, by contrast, never
use the art in their possession
‘museums of art are our new
leaves us in any doubt about
to prompt us to be so? Perhaps
churches’: in other words, in a
what art is for: it is a medium
art shouldn’t be ‘for art’s sake’,
secularized world, art has re-
to teach us how to live, what to
one of the most misunderstood,
placed religion as a touchstone
love and what to be afraid of.
unambitious and sterile of all
of our reverence and devotion.
Such art is extremely simple at
aesthetic slogans: why couldn’t
It’s an intriguing idea, part
the level of its purpose, how-
art be as it was in religious eras
of the broader ambition that
ever complex and subtle it is at
_ more explicitly for something?
culture should replace scripture,
the level of its execution (i.e.
but in practice art museums
Titian). Christian art amounts to
cally lead us into galleries set
often abdicate much of their
a range of geniuses saying such
out under headings such as ‘The
potential to function as new
incredibly basic but extremely
Nineteenth Century’ and ‘The
churches (places of consolation,
vital things as: ‘Look at that
Northern Italian School’, which
meaning, sanctuary, redemp-
picture of Mary if you want to
reflect the academic traditions
tion) through the way they
remember what tenderness is
in which their curators have
handle the collections entrusted
like’. ‘Look at that painting of
been educated. A more fertile
to them. While exposing us to
the cross if you want a lesson in
indexing system might group
objects of genuine importance,
courage’. ‘Look at that Last Sup-
together artworks from across
they nevertheless seem unable
per to train yourself not to be a
genres and eras according to
to frame them in a way that
coward and a liar’. The crucial
our inner needs. A walk through
links them powerfully to our
point is that the simplicity of
a museum of art should amount
inner needs.
the message implies nothing
to a structured encounter with
37
Charlotte de botton
Plastic Dreams
Atheism 2.0?
What aspects of religion
should atheists look at,
and/or even adopt? In
his latest book, Alain
de Botton suggests a
“Religion for Atheists”
- Atheism 2.0 - that
incorporates religious
forms and traditions to
satisfy our human needs
for connection, ritual
and transcendence.
Amongst them, oratory
speeches, cleansing
rituals, observing the
moon and the stars, and
the strength of religious
calendars.
Modern art museums typi-
The problem is that mod-
whatsoever about the quality of
a few of the things which are
ern museums of art fail to tell
the work itself as a piece of art.
easiest for us to forget and most
people directly why art matters,
Instead of refuting instrumental-
essential and life-enhancing to
because Modernist aesthetics
ism by citing the case of Soviet
remember.
(in which curators are trained) is
art, we could more convincingly
so deeply suspicious of any hint
defend it with reference to
the agendas for our art mu-
of an instrumental approach to
Mantegna and Bellini.
seums so that collections can
“What if modern museums of art kept in mind the example
of the didactic function of Christian art, in order once in a
while to reframe how they present their collection?”
The challenge is to rewrite
culture. To have an answer any-
This leads to a suggestion:
begin to serve the needs of
one could grasp as to the ques-
what if modern museums of art
psychology as effectively as,
tion of why art matters is too
kept in mind the example of
for centuries, they served those
quickly viewed as ‘reductive’.
the didactic function of Christian
of theology. Curators should
We have too easily swallowed
art, in order once in a while to
attempt to put aside their deep-
the Modernist idea that art
reframe how they presented
seated fears of instrumentalism
which aims to change or help
their collections? Would it ruin a
and once in a while co-opt
or console its audience must by
Rothko to highlight for an audi-
works of art to an ambition of
definition be ‘bad art’ (Soviet
ence the function that Rothko
art is routinely trotted out here
PD Would you say that your
project The School of Life, provides a similar function to that
of religions and churches, in the
sense, that it provides people
with comfort or a place to go?
AB Yes, I think so. Before I
country and said that you had
making learning practical: they
went to university, I imagined
come to study ‘how to live’ or
wanted to save your soul, they
university as an extraordinary
‘how to become a better and
wanted to teach you to become
place where you’d get a chance
wiser person’, you would be
wise and good. But as we’ve
to escape from commercial
politely shown the door _ if not
become a more secular society,
pressures and examine the
the way to an asylum. Universi-
so we’ve grown embarrassed
helping us to get through life.
great questions of life in beauti-
ties nowadays see it as their
about wisdom or ideas of right
himself declared that he hoped
Only then would museums be
ful surroundings with fascinat-
job to train you either in a very
and wrong, good and bad. Elite
as an example) and that only
his art would have: that of al-
able to claim that they had
ing people, and so become a
specific career (like law, medi-
opinion associates wisdom
art which wants nothing too
lowing the viewer a moment of
properly fulfilled the excellent
better, wiser, more interesting
cine) or to give you a grounding
with self-indulgent therapy and
clearly of us can be good. Hence
communion around an echo of
but as yet elusive ambition of
person. I still meet people who
in arts subjects like literature or
Oprah Winfrey (and meanwhile,
the all-too-frequent ques-
the suffering of our species?
in part becoming substitutes for
think this way about universi-
history _ but for no identifiable
the streets are on fire). There’s
churches in a rapidly secularis-
ties _ but one thing connects
reason, beyond the vague and
a maddening snobbery among
ing society.
them all: they’ve never been
unexamined notion that three
intellectuals about anyone
tion with which we leave the
Try to imagine what would
modern museum of art: what
happen if modern secular
did that mean? Why should
museums took the example of
to a modern British univer-
years studying medieval litera-
who tries to write a book that
this veneration of ambiguity
churches more seriously. What
sity. They can dream because
ture may be a good idea.
could in some way be useful
continue? Why should confusion
if they too decided that art had
they’ve managed to avoid a
The contemporary university
or enlightening to the mass
be a central aesthetic emotion?
a specific purpose _ to make
nasty encounter with educa-
grew out of religious institu-
of the population. You should
Is an emptiness of intent on the
us a bit more sane, or slightly
tional reality.
tions like monasteries and
hear how academics talk about
part of an art work really a sign
good or once in a while a little
The harsh truth is that if you
seminaries. These bodies
a historian like Simon Schama:
of its importance?
wiser and kinder _ and tried to
went to any university in the
were actively concerned with
they abuse him as if he’d been
38
39
“It is art, philosophy,
religion and history
that should be helping
to guide us as the
biblical books once
guided us. Culture is
the next best thing we
have to a religion.”
Mark Seliger
gerard julien
Plastic Dreams
Singer Natalie Merchand, a
favorite of the author
You’ll find courses in ‘Death,’
‘Marriage’ ‘Choosing a Career’
‘Ambition’ ‘Child Rearing’ or
‘Changing your World’. Along
PD If they existed, what would
you imagine as the potential 10
commandments of The School
of Life?
PD As an atheist, have you had
any sort of mystic or subliminal
experience?
AB Never.
the way, you will learn about a
lot of the books and ideas that
AB There is only one: be kind.
traditional universities serve
bookshops like fiction or history
PD Can you name contemporary
artists, architects, musicians,
creators in the art field whose
art you think is worthy of
appreciation? If you could
name a couple, who would you
highlight?
AB I love the musician Natalie
and just sells books accord-
Merchant _ her work is lyrical,
ing to particular problems. So
intelligent and plain beautiful.
In the world of painting, I
up, but you are unlikely ever to
get bored, you’ll make friends
_ and you’ll come away with
a different take on the world.
There’s even a bookshop in the
Detail of Seestük (See-See), 1970, by German artist Gerhard Richter
school which does away with
the traditional categories in
strangling young babies. If an
thinking. Universities are these
therapeutic aspects to our lives,
Culture is the next best thing
we’ve got a shelf titled ‘For
academic ever appears on TV,
places, they receive massive
we’re all in need of knowledge
we have to a religion _ yet the
those who worry at night’ and
admire the German painter Ger-
his colleagues will treat him
subsidies from us, the taxpayers
geared towards wisdom and
universities insist on hiding its
another titled ‘How to be happy
hard Richter, for the melancholy
like he has ‘sold out’. Doing
_ and should be idyllic refuges
consolation and why on earth
riches from us.
though married’. We call the
of his landscapes.
your job properly in the eyes
from the harsh winds blowing
shouldn’t universities, as the
Because the situation so
shop a ‘chemist for the soul’.
of most academics generally
up and down the country. But
guardians of culture, open up
plainly deserves to change, a
It’s always tempting to stick
consists in writing books that
modern universities have en-
their treasures to the benefit
few years ago, I came together
at standing on the sidelines
sell 200 copies, never commu-
tirely betrayed any such ideals.
of ordinary human beings. We
with a group of similarly disaf-
complaining about a problem,
nicating with the outside world
Outside of the sciences, they
live in a largely secular country,
fected academics, artists and
but it’s perhaps one better to
and focusing your life’s work on
have rendered themselves ir-
where the majority of people
writers and decided to start a
try to make a change yourself.
a tiny area like Biblical refer-
relevant to the concerns of most
find themselves unable to take
new kind of university that we
The School of Life is our mod-
ences in Byron’s later poems or
people. The other day, I met a
the teachings of the Church
called plainly: The School of
est attempt to alter the way
the history of crop rotation in
man at a barbecue and told him
(or Mosque or Synagogue)
Life. The place opened its doors
that learning gets done in this
medieval Lancashire.
that I’d once done some teach-
seriously. It therefore should be
in a modest shop and teaching
country _ and to remind us
AB I would train to be an archi-
There are few places in the
ing in a philosophy department
the role of culture to take up
space in central London near
that culture, if handled rightly,
tect. I so love architecture, but
modern world where people
in a university. ‘You’ve lost me
the slack. It is art, philosophy,
King’s Cross. On the menu of
should actually feel entirely rel-
I was too panicked by the long
AB I play with my children.
get protection from the pres-
already’, he told me. Such at-
religion and history that should
our school, you won’t find sub-
evant and exciting and always
education required when I was
They are the ideal form of re-
sures of making money and
titudes are not uncommon.
be helping to guide us as the
jects like ‘philosophy’ ‘French’
make life more manageable
in my 20s. I wish I had thought
laxation. They place everything
can spend time reading and
Yet the truth is, all of us need
biblical books once guided us.
‘History’ and ‘the Classics’.
and interesting.
more clearly.
in perspective.
PD If you were in your twenties
today, how do you think your
life would be? And what was
going through your mind during
your twenties?
PD Living in such turbulent
times, do you have things that
you do personally to take you to
a more peaceful place, such as
meditation or any other form
of relaxation?
Plastic Dreams
40
Goddesses
of paganism,
love,
& fashion...
Illustrations Julie Verhoeven
Melissa Ultragirl Glitter (left)
Melissa Virtue Special
41
43
Melissa Peace
Melissa Virtue Special (left)
Melissa Moon + Jason Wu
Plastic Dreams
44
Melissa Ultragirl + Jason Wu
Plastic Dreams
46
Melissa Virtue (left)
Melissa Protection
Melissa Cross
49
50
Plastic Dreams
51
Defining her work as “exhibitionist”,
the artist reveals that she is inspired
by pop culture, urban life
and music, and that the
vulnerability of her
figures make people
connect to her
world.
photo courtesy of the artist
The colorful world
of Julie Verhoeven,
fashion’s favourite
illustrator
Text
Ilana Rehavia
Artist Julie Verhoeven, whose artworks can be found in the
permanent collection of the Victoria & Albert museum
When fashion illustrator
Julie Verhoeven opens the
door to her South London
sweet, self deprecating and
recognition was having her
Verhoeven is the daugh-
Diana themed wallpaper
drawing, where all external
down-to-earth.
work hanging on the walls
ter of a British mother and
for an exhibition of the
stimuli are blocked. Later
of the renowned Victoria
Dutch father. She studied
late royal’s dresses to be
on, she’ll go back to the
The melancholic multi-
home, we’re greeted by
colored girls that inhabit
& Albert museum. They
fashion at Medway College,
displayed at Kensington
project with a more relaxed
an explosion of color. She
her drawings have already
acquired around 40 of Ver-
in England, in the 1980s.
Palace. “It was a surreal
frame of mind and give it
is an impressive sight with
been illustrated on bags by
hoeven’s drawings for its
She loved both drawing
experience”, she laughs.
the finishing touches.
lime yellow hair, blue eye
Louis Vuitton and Mulberry,
permanent collection.
and fashion and started to
The artist describes her
shadow, red lipstick, and
as well as dresses and
concentrate on illustration,
work as “quite exhibition-
doe-eyed, dreamy girls,
different patterned clothes,
swimsuits by Versace and
reasons why her work
encouraged by designer
ist, colorful, something
however, should prepare to
tights and shoes. The color
lip gloss tubes by Lancôme.
seems to be so appealing to
John Galliano during a work
that tries to shout out of
be surprised. In a state of
continues inside her home,
She has created designs for
so many different people,
placement at his studio.
the page”. Though the end
permanent transformation,
where every surface from
cushions and bed linens for
she answers with her
Accustomed to expressing
result is light and beautiful
the artist is moving towards
the steps of the stairs to the
H&M home, collaborated
characteristic humility. “I’m
herself in different arenas,
there is a lengthy process
a new aesthetic: “more
living room walls is covered
with music legends such
pleased to hear they do
she has also worked as
that goes on behind the
gritty, less pretty”. “I am
in drawings and designs.
as Primal Scream, her work
appeal to people because
head designer for the Ital-
scenes. She starts new
inspired by pop culture, city
published “Dazed & Con-
that’s what I try to do, I
ian label Gibo, and as art
assignments by spending
life, music, but also by my
such a striking display,
fused”, “Vogue” Italy and
desperately try to connect.
director and consultant for
long hours buried in library
own mortality. It pushes me
however, her laugh is the
“The Face” and has also
I try to be honest and emo-
a range of other compa-
books to gather as much
to move forward, to keep
most unforgettable feature.
been a contributor to Nick
tional on paper when I‘m
nies, both in London and
visual information as pos-
drawing and finding new
Despite being one of the
Knight’s website SHOWStu-
drawing and I think there is
Paris. Recently, one of her
sible. Then, it’s time to lock
ways of expressing myself”,
most celebrated fashion il-
dio. She’s had countless ex-
a certain vulnerability to my
most memorable projects
herself in the studio for a
she says. Expect darker, but
lustrators of all times, she is
hibitions, but the ultimate
work that people relate to.”
was designing a Princess
period of intense bursts of
never less compelling.
Even in the middle of
When asked about the
Those accustomed to her
52
Plastic Dreams
The fantastic
world
of Jason
53
MELISSA JEAN + JASON WU
Photos
Marcio Madeira
THE DESIGNER CONQUERS NY
Jason Wu’s Winter 2012 collection was a success. Drawing
inspiration from his Oriental roots, the designer presented
three versions of China: Maoist military, Qing dynasty history, and Hollywood. Critics LOVED it!
PS: Mirte Maas, the model on the left that’s been featured
in some of the most memorable recent fashion cam-
JASON WU RENEWS HIS
PARTNERSHIP WITH MELISSA
AND REAFFIRMS HIMSELF
AS ONE OF AMERICA’S
MOST BELOVED FASHION
DESIGNERS.
in some of the most famous
paigns (Tom Ford, Balenciaga, Chanel) was a Melissa girl
closets such as American First
in “Acid Treasures”, in PLASTIC DREAMS 2. Remember her?
Jason Wu is still among us.
partnership with Melissa, the
Lady Michelle Obama, Alexa
Chung, Emma Watson, Michelle
Williams, Diane Kruger, Ivana
Trump, Amber Valletta...
Very happy with his ongoing
Praised by public and critics
designer took time out from
alike, he continues his partner-
finishing the looks for his
ship with the launch of two
Winter 2012 collection to talk
new Melissa styles for Plastic
to PLASTIC DREAMS about the
Paradise: Melissa Moon + Jason
launch of a new collection, his
Wu, a super pop loafers in
plans for the year, his current
strong colors, and Melissa Jean
muse, and his favorite album.
+ Jason Wu, a textured ballet
MELISSA MOON + JASON WU
Wu is a fan of plastic, fashion
PLASTIC DREAMS You renewed your partnership with
Melissa this collection. What
are your impressions of the
new arrivals?
Jason Wu Melissa did an
and gastronomy, and is con-
excellent job in converting my
sidered to be one of the most
ideas to plastic. I wanted to
important names in the coun-
toy with the idea of lacework
try’s new generation of fashion
and transparency in my first
designers. With distinct and
collection for the brand and
PD Winter 2012 brings new
things in terms of colors and
two new styles for the Melissa
+ Jason Wu partnership. What’s
the idea behind these creations?
JW I’m especially happy and
modern creations that show-
the lace imitation on plastic
excited with the loafer-style
case traditional elements in a
was perfect. I love the idea of
contemporary and fashionable
way, his designs can be found
flat with grosgrain ribbons, in
a more classical pallet of colors
(black, nude, camel, navy, red
brown and smoked gray).
The Thai-born, but US based
they come with a version of my
goddess. She’s the face of my
Paris to visit some of my favor-
baroque lacework, a reproduc-
new Spring 2012 campaign,
ite restaurants [the designer
tion from my first collection.
shot by Willy Vanderperre.
stated in the previous edition
PD What have you done, read,
listened to? Do you have plans
for 2012?
JW I’m happy to be able to
sionate he is about gastrono-
shoe, the Melissa Moon + Jason
PD If you had to choose a current goddess or a muse, who
would it be?
JW For me, model Julia Frauche.
something so classic, like lace,
Wu in lively, 1960s, pop colors.
Her features are delicate while
relax after my Winter 2012
lot. I played it through all the
mixed up with plastic.
They are very beautiful. And
sophisticated; she’s a modern
show. I should be going to
fittings for my show.
of PLASTIC DREAMS how pasmy]. And one of my favorite
artists right now is Lana Del
Rey. I listened to her new CD a
Plastic Dreams
54
55
A CULT
MELISSA GIRL
NOTED AS ONE OF THE HOTTEST SINGERS OF HER
GENERATION, ZOLA JESUS visits Galeria melissa
in sao paulo AND renews HER COLLECTION.
sionate about Melissa’s more
Text
Duda Porto de Souza
Photos
Juliana Nallini
As an opera devotee (it’s on
experimental designs. “The
her playlist at the moment)
one I wore most was Gaetano
she is also a fan of pop artists
Pesce’s. I used it so much that
such as Kylie Minogue, Britney
interviews prior to her arrival
there’s almost a hole in the
Spears and Mariah Carey. Nika/
the United States, Nika Roza
the singer stated she had little
sole”, she joked, mentioning
Zola brightened up when told
Daniloza, best known as Zola
knowledge the country with
the Italian architect’s creation
that Melissa’s Winter 2012
Jesus, has acquired a cult fol-
the exception of Melissa. It is a
that shows up even in her of-
collection is Plastic Paradise.
lowing all over the world for
brand she absolutely loves! Her
ficial publicity photo.
“My paradise is music!”, she
her goth-chic style and power-
love for Melissa is so strong
ful, special tone of voice. With
that she made a point of visit-
style sunglasses, sat on one of
house in the mountains that I
three albums under her belt,
ing Galeria Melissa, where she
the benches at the entrance of
already own...” Perhaps that’s
she is a trained lyrical singer,
hoped to renew her collection.
Galeria while being inter-
the source of the melancholic
viewed by reporters. Although
nature of her music...
A Russian singer living in
producer, composer and is
On the afternoon before
Zola, wearing giant Robocop-
exclaimed. “It’s also a lonely
Zola Jesus continues through
considered by many to be “the
her show accompanied by her
shy and speaking in a low
new Siouxsie”.
entourage, she enjoyed trying
voice, she was visibly excited
her 2012 tour carrying with
on different styles. Upon enter-
when it came to talking about
her styles from Melissa’s
to perform in Sao Paulo, where
ing the shop and after several
fashion: “Clothes have the
most recent harvest such as
she delighted her public. She
“Woahhhs” at seeing the mag-
potential to tell a story. They
Melissa Secret Love, Melissa
flew in from New York after
nitude of styles, her eyes went
help you incorporate your own
Night (with lacework), Melissa
recording the video for “Seekir”
straight to Melissa Aileron, cre-
spirit, take on and celebrate
Campana Zig Zag and Melissa
which is part of her latest work
ated by British fashion designer
your own identity in a very real
Campana Paper. Along with
“Conatus” (2011).
Gareth Pugh. “I always wanted
and tangible way. I like Gareth
these she carries Melissa
that one!” exclaimed the
Pugh a lot because he tells sev-
Aileron + Gareth Pugh, her
singer, who is especially pas-
eral stories in a single piece”.
newest favorite.
Zola visited Brazil in January
It was her first trip to
Latin America and in several
Plastic Dreams
56
57
Multimedia artist and director Adam Dugas explains the eternal paradise that
is NYC, chosen city for the new Galeria Melissa Once upon a time, New York
was a magical island where anything seemed possible. Days were spent exploring
the canyons and looking down from towers; at night we saw big, brassy shows
with blaring orchestras, singing stars and scores of dancers. Outside the theater,
gardens of fur-clad ladies brushed past porno palace hustlers passing out fliers,
streets jazzed with sex, money, and ambition; everyone a show-off. Spicy tendrils
of exotic perfume cut with gutter trash and bleachy bars. The smell of burning
pretzels wafting from pushcarts always made me feel at home, even as a visiting
country teen. Hungry to be a part of it, desperate for people to mistake me for a
Manhattan islander, I punched dreams into my bedroom typewriter. Plotting a
novel of a punky young girl who runs away to the city, calls herself Lizard, lives
and loves in a downtown squat with a crazy group of misfits with names like Soap.
I grew up and graduated to The City, other cities: industrial Chicago with weather
that killed, storybook San Francisco with jasmine nights drenched in sex, isolating Los Angeles where I spun my wheels beneath apocalyptic sunsets. Poised at
the precipice, time to reinvent myself again. New York beckoned with her witchy
fingers. I met my match in an art gallery with a blinking disco floor, jumped in a
taxi to party with a movie star under a bridge, performed a mating dance, roamed
the streets at dawn - and then a first kiss to last forever. New York City is ticket
to the world. Someone always complains that the paradise of New York is over;
they are always wrong. The Eighties are over, the Fifties are over, the Twenties are
over, New York is alive. Old paradigms and people die, buildings and institutions
are torn asunder. The center shifts, a new influx of dreamers disembarks. Ghosts
and shadows float and moan, bold fresh buds bust forth. I ride over the river under a full moon as her sequined skyline opens up behind me. New York today
is a magical island where anything seems possible. Text & Collage Adam Dugas
58
59
KEVIN MAZUR / WIREIMAGE
Plastic Dreams
Divas, wigs and
parallel paradises
published, using the word
“faggot”. That’s enough for
people around the world to
criticize Minaj for giving Slim
Shady space. Debate forums,
Facebook and Twitter posts
defend and accuse Eminem
until Nicki herself comes out of
her alternative planet to say
“most of her fan base is gay
GL WOOD
and a homophobic track would
never be put on her album”.
She’s right! Homophobia has
no place in music. Nicki now
has a mess to call her own.
Perry jumps even further
into controversy. The singer
is Evangelic and in 2001 she
even recorded a gospel CD
under the name Katy Hudson.
She has Jesus tattooed on her
arm, and her brief marriage
to rocker Russel Brand, two
years ago, was celebrated by
a pastor in India. Trying to
avoid even more confusion
by kissing girls onstage and
praying like she’s expected
to, Perry says she doesn’t mix
“sex and religion”. This was a
direct criticism at videos and
tracks such as “Alejandro” and
Nicki Minaj and Katy Perry: strong wig, success,
and a giant Pantone of colors for a pop paradise
“Judas” from the always super
controversial Lady Gaga.
Perry also took a shot at
Nicki and her wigs live.
Madonna during an interview
this success that Perry, like Ni-
the entire current pop univer-
for a French radio station,
cki, decided to invent a colorful
se: controversy.
saying “she’s not comfortable
(PLASTIC DREAMS 5 cover girl),
alter ego, heavenly artificial,
who competes with Minaj in
for her concerts.
her own private universe.
Perry’s story is one that can
Text
Ronald Villardo
free of what propels nearly
to irreverence is Katy Perry
Less fond of rap and closer
A great deal of
dressing up and
controversy live side
by side in the real
lives of pop’s most
prominent singers.
international star. It was with
In the much talked about
in seeing the eternal Material
and sensational single
Girl on the cross”, referencing
“Roman’s Revenge”, Nicki
the ‘Live to Tell’ part of the
hair, Katy did her “Teena-
Minaj lists words that make
2006 “Confessions” tour.
With pink (blue, or green)
The next step for these
Forget “Superbass”. When
fellow megastar Eminem, in a
Minaj’s a busy woman
be already imagined being told
ge Dream” tour. This was a
little to no sense, rhyming
you hear “Pink Friday”, singer
troubling rap entitled “Roman’s
with a new album already
in documentaries that describe
vibrant, colorful, sticky and
“has been” with “flat screen”
girls, who are travelling in
Nicki Minaj’s debut album, you
Revenge”. And why would you
underway. She also partners
“overcoming adversities”. The
delicious dream. For many,
followed by “plasma” and
different lanes of the same
will notice that every song on
want to know this, you might
with Madonna on her new CD
American had two albums
that’s paradise right there: an
“asthma” (?!). Nicki even
pop road, can take them to
it is better. Pay attention to
ask. Maybe because Nicki tries
“MDNA”. Her single “Roman in
cancelled by record companies
eternal and fantastic chocola-
laughs during the recording,
either heaven or hell. But the
the stomach turning lows and
to create a universe comple-
Moscow” is also well known
before finally having the single
te or candy factory.
recognizing the lack of sense
way it looks, with big sales
especially to the openly artifi-
tely of her own to showcase
and the video for “Stupid
“I Kissed a Girl” released in
Although both Nicki and
between those words. Things
and long schedules, heaven
cial paradise created by Nicki’s
her art; a parallel universe,
Hoe”, which was launched on-
2007. Capitol Music, a big com-
Katy walk different paths to
go further when Eminem raps
it’ll be. As colorful and as
alter ego, Roman. Roman duels
colorful and paradise-like, in
line in late January, reinforces
pany, used all its marketing
their own special Garden of
one of his trademark contro-
full of as many wigs as they
Slim Shady, the alter ego of
its own unique way.
the other dimension in which
know how to make Perry an
Eden, they are not, however,
versial phrases that can’t be
can imagine.
60
Plastic Dreams
61
renata falzoni
Renata Falzoni and friends cycle at Sertão
do Cariri, northern Brazil; lawyers and
their bikes in front of the Treviso Forum,
in Italy, and a smiley bike, in Copenhagen.
I want to
ride my
bicycle...!
A BIKE “ADDICT” SINCE CHILDHOOD, AND AN
ADVOCATE OF A WORLD WITH MORE OF
THEM, RENATA FALZONI TALKS ABOUT
PEDALLING IN THE STREETS OF
DIFFERENT COUNTRIES
AROUND THE GLOBE.
Text
Renata Falzoni
flickr.com/elsamu
SAMpa bikers
I remember as if it were yesterday, the
When I got into college, I was given a
paths, cycle routes and bicycle parkings;
Every place has its own way of dealing
children, who pedal alone to school. This is
loans. Those who want to go to the center
day I learned how to pedal. It was my
car. I thought the car would mean my free-
improve trains, buses and subways to
with bicycles. In Europe, countries such
right, the streets were created for people
by car need to pay an expensive toll, so
fifth birthday and I had just received my
dom, but I soon discovered that traffic jams
make them more bike friendly.
as Germany, Holland, Belgium, Austria,
to travel, not only the cars. And in theses
people think twice before travelling on four
first Caloi bike (a prominent Brazilian bike
are a pain and make everyone crazy!
Switzerland and Denmark, are intercon-
countries people are not afraid of the cars.
wheels. Public transportation works, and
manufacturer) with 16” rim and no train-
One day I decided to pedal to class, and
Having a car should be an option, not an
obligation. Reducing the number of cars in
nected by a network of well-maintained
In Italy, like France, things are a bit less
to help those who need to go by foot, the
ing wheels. I spent that entire afternoon
was delighted to learn that it was possible
a city makes life more pleasurable _ less
bike paths.
organized. There are a smaller number of
city hall lends bikes. You can borrow a bike
trying to ride the bike, but I did not man-
to do so. Since that day, whenever I can,
noisy and polluted, with fewer traffic jams.
cycling paths, but drivers collaborate. Both
in one part of the city and give it back in
age to master it.
I leave my car at home and use my bike.
In these places drivers respect
cyclists. It’s so neat. We can pedal,
enjoying the landscape, listening
to the birds, never worrying about
getting run over (which is not the
case in Sao Paulo, Renata’s hometown). Children, adults and even
old people, all on their bikes its amazing!
the French and the Italians love bicycle
another. All for free. Cool, huh?
The following morning I once again
faced the challenge and suddenly it was
One day I rode to the Sao Paulo bus
I’ve been doing it for the last 35 years now.
station, put my bike on the bus and went
At the time it was so strange to see a girl
to Campinas (in the interior of Sao Paulo,
like dream, I took off as if on a magic
on a bike that I was nicknamed E.T. “Nor-
about 83km from the capital). I spent the
carpet! A completely unique sensation –
mal” was to always be travelling by car.
weekend pedaling with my cousin Kaliko
Wow I was flying! But because I did not
Those who used public transportation did
and then put my bike back on the bus and
know how to turn, when I encountered the
so because they still had not bought a car.
returned home.
closed gates - BOOM! I went straight to the
Since then I have worked to help people
I enjoyed it so much that I started to
ground, accounting for my first fall.
overcome this prejudice. Everyday I try to
do the same with airplanes. I now board
I finally understood what it
meant to pedal: the sensation of
liberty and eternal challenge! And
from that day on, I have never
stopped riding my bike.
make people accept those who choose to
with my bike and I have pedaled in more
ride a bike instead of going by car. I call
than 25 countries. I pedal and record my
the attention of drivers to remember to re-
In these countries, travelling by bike
races. When the Tour de Frace and Giro
It’s called shared bicycles and it is
d’Italia (important competitions that travel
already happening in Paris, Munich, Bar-
across the country) are on, people watch
celona, Rio de Janeiro and even Sao Paulo.
them live on TV and cheer a lot. The same
Cyclists and pedestrians can travel further
happens in Spain.
and quicker than cars and public transpor-
The Olympic Games will take place in
London, England, between July and August
tation, resulting in fewer traffic jams.
This is how I want Brazil to be. A country
of this year. One of the main changes
with good public transportation, where
is completely normal. Anyone who runs
the city has made to host the event is to
everyone respects each other. It would
someone over, no matter if it is his or her
try and reduce the number of cars from
be a much better place for all. We could
adventures for cable channels such as
fault or not, faces jail: it’s a crime. The driv-
the center of town. To help facilitate
travel more by bicycle and children could
spect cyclists, I put pressure on politicians
ESPN, always in the company of my friend
ers fear running over cyclists and respect
this they are promoting cycling with new
pedal to school, without worrying they
so they can continue to finance bicycle
Paulo de Tarso.
all of those on the streets, especially
cycle paths, routes, bike parking and bike
might get run over.
62
Plastic Dreams
63
POSTCARD REPRODUCTION
themselves in a bad situation
for not detecting or foreseeing
this disastrous event. What I
observed with the monarchy’s
end was the rise of tremendous
hope for a change in the quality of life, resulting in peace
amongst the Nepalese.
Khatmandu is a city filled with
many surprises and fun. Its architecture consists of stupas (Tibetan Buddhist temples), Hindu
NIRVANA IN THE HIGHEST
temples, monuments, palaces,
and small streets brimming with
bikes, rickshaw (two-wheeled
carts pulled by a person), sacred
cows and many people.
I stayed at a hotel on the
Thamel district, in a true Babel
Tower. The neighborhood was
a tangle of restaurants, stores,
PHOTOS PERSONAL ARCHIVE
cafés, hotels, bookshops and
street fairs selling products
“made in China”, both day
and night. The heart of this
area was occupied by a mix of
hippies, Japanese people, backpackers, freak-brothers, and
adventurers passionate about
hiking and action sports. While
walking through those cramped
streets I stopped at a travel
agency’s door that displayed a
poster which caught my eye:
“Everest Experience Flight”.
I was ecstatic. A flight
Reporter Arthur Verissimo
around the Everest, would
One of the world’s most
seasoned travellers,
reporter Arthur Veríssimo
found bliss at the highest
point on the globe,
but preferred to
“photograph” it
with HIS
soul.
Text
Arthur Verissimo
While drinking a delicious
ginger spiced-tea and sitting on
last fall left the world and the
brothers, uncles and aunts lost
reveal all the little luxuries and
Nepalese people appalled.
their lives. Nepal was left in a
details of the sacred mountain
glorious, cloud-free day. At
The scenery was majestic.
entered a meditative state
state a shock.
and other Himalayan peaks.
the airport I witnessed happy
The plane flew close to the
in front of that indescribable
With the country in chaos,
This would only happen if the
smiles from all the passengers.
immense mountains of Lothse
setting. I let my eyes caress
the veranda of a Bhaktapur res-
The Shah dynasty, which
taurant, joy bubbled up from all
was created in 1769, was the
my senses as I remembered the
beginning of a monarchy in
Gyanendra, Birendra’s brother,
sky remained clear. I made the
Thrilled and seated in a Beech
and Nuptse, both over 8 thou-
my spirit. My camera remained
taste of the Napalese cuisine.
which kings were considered
was crowned the 11th king of
deal right away. The follow-
1900D, I heard the captain
sand meters high. Then Everest
silent. I photographed with my
My thoughts drifted while I read
nothing less than a reincarna-
the Shah dynasty. There are
ing day I experienced what
explain the flight’s route (the
showed itself. The pilot made
SOUL. Its majesty seemed to
a story from the local newspa-
tion of the God VISHNU. It was
many conflicting versions about
other hikers, pilgrims and
small plane offered 16 win-
another low-level flight which
me too grand to be confined
per, “The Kathmandu Post”, of
during a family meal on June
what happened backstage
adventurers have only dreamt
dows for the tourists to view
almost took us to the top of the
into one photo. The plane
the demise of the last Nepal-
1st, 2011, that Prince Dipendra,
during the dinner and these
of. I would know the highest
and appreciate the world’s
world’s highest mountain, rest-
returned and everyone seemed
ese monarchy. For those who
heir to the throne, in a fit of
are still being investigated.
point on the planet. Believe it,
biggest mountain range).
ing at about 8.848 meters. The
to be in a transcendental state.
don’t know, Nepal abolished its
fury destroyed and decimated
Rumors of conspiracy continue
out of the world’s ten highest
monarchy in 2008 and has since
the royal family. As a result of
to shake the nation to this day.
mountains, eight are in Nepal.
similar to an angry sea. Its
on incessantly. Completely
experience? When in Nepal,
presented itself as a parliamen-
the slaughter King Birendra,
Astrologers and oracles that
I woke up before 5am, looked
peaks are like colossal waves
away from the delirium of
don’t think twice and hop on
tary republic. One violent act
Queen Aishwarya, his two
served the royal court found
out the window and saw a
in a tsunami that never ends.
registering the experience, I
board that flight.
The Himalayan surface is
tourists turned their cameras
What can one say about the
Wonders of
the World
Text Chris Bicalho
65
PHOTOS GETTYIMAGES
64
Plastic Dreams
If your idea of
paradise is nature,
here is an insider guide
for you! From a private island
in mozambique to the world’s
largest coral reef barrier, indulge
yourself and be inspired by some of the
most amazing destinations on the globe.
www.b360travel.com
Bali (Indonesia) “A unique place, which allows a perfect holistic connection between mind, body and soul.” Renowned for its
highly developed arts, including traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, and music. Known as the Island of a Thousand Temples,
because of the incredible number of wonderful religious sanctuaries that exists in the island. Indulge yourself staying @ Alila Villas Uluwatu.
Ha Long Bay (Vietnam) “Designed by time and wind, the islands are surrounded by a breathtaking jade color sea. This
is a destination that really deserves priority!”. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a precious geological museum that has been
naturally preserved in the open air for the last 300 million years. Indulge yourself staying @ Halong Violet Cruise.
Bhutan “Possibly the most exclusive destination in the world, hidden between India and Tibet; the Zen atmosphere of the
Tanzania “For a special encounter between nature and wild life, the safaris in Tanzania are life changing.” Nowadays, the safaris
location is completely contagious.” Bhutan’s government does not measure Gross Domestic Product like so many other countries
are only for the proximity to the animals and being able to photograph them. There are confortable lodges that allow visitors to have a
because of its association with money; rather, they measure Gross National Happiness! Indulge yourself staying @ Amanresorts.
stretch of Africa all to themselves. Indulge yourself staying @ Tanzania Under Canvas or @ Singita Sasakwa Game Reserve.
66
67
PHOTOS GETTYIMAGES
Plastic Dreams
Lençois Maranhenses (Northern Brazil) “Natural pools and dunes that change according to the ‘state of mind’ of
Vamizi Island (Mozambique) “A unique place, surrounded by an emerald colored sea. Perfect to relax and amazing for
the wind, all combine to create a stunning landscape”. An ecological paradise that hosts a rare geological phenomenon of natural
diving! The only hotel available has exclusive bungalows, very comfortable and blended with the local nature.” In the words of
lagoons, which appear in the dunes during the rainy season, with unique sunsets. Indulge yourself staying @ Encantes do Nordeste.
French explorer Jacques Cousteau: “In the deep space of the sea, I have found my moon”. Indulge yourself staying @ Vamizi Island Villas.
Maldives “One of the world’s paradises that must be visited soon; according to experts, the sea will eventually cover the
Hayman Island (Australia) “This is the best way to know the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral barrier.” The private
Maldive Islands.” The Maldives lies in two rows of atolls in the Indian Ocean, 2,030 km from India. Due to its extraordinary underwater
island famous for its multiple award-winning luxury resort, built in the 1950s by millionaire Reg Ansett. Accommodations are built with a
scenery, it is ranked amongst the best recreational diving destinations in the world. Indulge yourself staying @ Six Senses Lammu.
modern contemporary design positioned to take full advantage of the views. Indulge yourself staying @ Qualia Resort Withsunday.
68
Plastic Dreams
69
Plastic Paradise Inverno 2012
felipe abe
What is paradise
for you?
Text
Erika Palomino & Luigi Torre
“Paradise for me is
a crystal blue sky,
emerald sea, warm
sun and lots of love,
that would be my
ideal paradise.
A place to hangout
with my friends and
have a great party.”
“Probably just a cottage in
England... More specifically
in Cornwall, which is a
place I simply love.”
Susie Bubble,
blogger and fashion icon
Bruno Basso, fashion designer
of Basso & Brooke
COURTESY OF THE ARTIST
Anna Dello Russo,
editor at large and
creative consultant for
“Vogue” Japan
Phil Oh
gui paganini
ali leier
Costanza Pascolato,
Brazilian fashion icon
J. Maskrey,
designer
“My idea of paradise is
very simple, a cliché really.
Anywhere, preferably created
by Niemeyer, with interior
designs by Ettore Sottsass,
semi-isolated, with a view
of the sea on one side, and
the mountains on the other.
An infinity pool, breeze,
and exuberant nature. All
accompanied by my friends
and dogs, and with pleasant
temperatures all year round.
Loads of good food, a lot of
chocolate, and fresh coffee.
A comfortable bed, birds
singing all the time, access
to high-speed internet and
a computer with photoshop
installed. The rest, I’ll invent!” SWINGING-PARIS.COM
“Paradise for me? Easy!
It’s my closet!”
“Perfect health.
That’s the big thing.”
“A place where I could eat many
‘brigadeiros’ and ‘quindins’ (typical
brazilian sweets) and not gain weight
afterwards. Hahaha. That would be
my paradise!”
Giovanni Bianco, art director
Aurea Calcavecchia
EDDIE MONSOON
A BEACH? GOOD FRIENDS? WE ASKED THE
QUESTION TO A SERIES OF AMAZING
PERSONALITIES; AND HOW
ABOUT YOU? WHAT IS
YOUR idea of
PARADISE?
“Well, after almost a
whole month of shows
between New York,
London, Milan and Paris,
paradise to me would be
just to spend some good
time in my bed.”
Sarah, creative director of
Colette store, Paris
“Paradise is the following
day: waking up in Rio for a
run along the Copacabana
beach and a long swim out
into the Atlantic breakers,
before taking the world’s
best restorative drink, a
coconut cut by a friendly
dude on the beach; and
then heading off to a
Lanvin show in Paris in all
its dappled light glory and
dramatic clothes. Then
going into my Directoire
apartment in the 2nd to pen
some telling bon mots of
criticism before a lunch on
a banquette in The Modern,
the Lucullan garden
restaurant in NYC’s MOMA.
The afternoon takes me to
a Chanel pre-view in the
studio of Karl Lagerfeld, the
cleverest man in fashion and
the best talker in Europe
since Oscar Wilde. After a
try-lingual conversation
it’s off to a great gallery
opening in Gagosian back
in Chelsea, before a sunset
drink on Fasano’s terrace,
as the rosy hand of papa
sun lingers on Morro Dois
Irmaos... A couple of evening
shows in Ipanema, say
Osklen and Lenny, before
dinner in Bice, Milan and
bossa nova dancing in
Lapa’s Os Demokraticos and
a night cap in Silencio, to
finally walk hope with a true
love and fall asleep in her
ams, her green eyes eyeing
me finely...”
Godfrey Deeny, European
Editor, Fashion Wire Daily
LUCIANA PREZIA
71
Plastic Paradise Inverno 2012
“I think we all have many paradises. Spiritual,
imaginary, and the ‘real’ paradise. Mine, for
example, is having my cats on my lap, with my love
by my side, and creating art. That’s paradise for me,
a moment where I feel complete and at peace.”
nina pandolfo
70
Plastic Dreams
“I’m sure paradise could be
some where in Brazil, but I
think my newest paradise
is Hawaii, where I went for
Christmas. And it was lovely.
Very beautiful, much like what
I saw when in Brazil. Very
green, wonderful beaches,
very peaceful, friendly people
and lots of nature.”
Nina Pandolfo, artist
courtesy of the designer
“Amanpuri Hotel in
Phuket combines pure
tranquility with gracious
surroundings creating
a haven to maximise
rejuvination of the mind,
body and soul. The spa is
heaven on Earth with the
most relaxing massages
in the world and views
through coconut groves
down to the mesmerising
crystal clear waters of
the Andaman sea.
Total paradise!”
Daniella Helayel,
fashion designer
Lucas Nascimento,
London based
fashion designer
“Paradise for us is, after such long
trips, coming back home”
“Spending the night
talking with a friend of
a friend, which you just
met whilst sitting down /
lying down in the slide of
a park, with nothing to do
the next day.”
Luisa Lovefoxxx,
lead singer CSS
COURTESY OF THE ARTIST
“Coming from Bonito in Brazil
(which translates into English
as ‘beautiful’ and is in itself a
paradise), I am contrarily drawn
to a colder climate - being in
the mountainous regions of
Switzerland or Northern Italy
with a glass of red wine and
chocolate is bliss for me!”
PERSONAL ARCHIVE
LUIZA SÁ
MARCIO MADEIRA
NIKKOS KOKKAS
Suzy Menkes,
fashion editor International
Herald Tribune
Fernando and Humberto Campana,
designers
“Paradise to me would be a place
of no judgement, no hate, and no
segregation. Everyone would be
of equal importance and money
would be of no value. In my
paradise everyone would accept
each others flaws and be helpful
to those in need.” Nello Luchi, upcoming hip-hop
artist from Brooklyn, NYC
“Paradise for me are all
those fleeting moments
that elevate my state of
consciousness: the Aegean
breeze in the summertime,
a killer bassline, a humbling
art experience, the sound
of my baby nephew’s
laughter, truffles in October,
Cinderella moment for
lust-over shoes (a perfect
fit!), competitive dance-offs,
making people laugh...” Chloe Vaitsou, London-based
curator, consultant and writer
72
Photos Vivi Bacco
my piece of heaven
Plastic Dreams
EIGHT GIRLS, EIGHT
DIFFERENT RELIGIONS, ONE
SOCIAL RULE: HARMONY
AND RESPECT.
the religion of loving the other
Buddhism. Religion, gender,
person!” exclaims Dani.
or origins don’t influence my
“Respect first”, agrees
Maiara. “I believe God is one,
Oito meninas, oito
religiões distintas. Um
só tipo de convivência:
em harmonia e respeito.
relationship with any other human being.”
although there are several
SALAAM, SALAAM
The idea of paradise varies
paths and philosophies for
for every religion. Brazil is one
several types of people and
of the countries where religions
cultures. I was raised in a
Mourad, who is a Muslim, thinks
coexist in peace and harmony.
Catholic household but ended
the same way. “My experience
Come with us, 8 women with
up seeing Vaishnavism (the
with other people is fantastic.
8 different religious beliefs,
Hare Krishna movement) as
My best friends belong to dif-
who are united by the love
a solid way to fill the empty
ferent religions and that has
for Melissa, as we explore
spaces in my life”.
never affected anything since I
their personal definitions of
For her, each person should
Thirty year old Nura Salim
was taught at home to respect
paradise, which is the main
follow what resonates with
everyone and every creed” says
theme of Melissa’s 2012 Winter
them: “That’s the way to har-
the jewelry maker. She gradu-
collection.
monious living. I’m not in favor
ated from Advertising and lives
of fanatics. For example, my
in Sao Paulo. For her, paradise
two of the saleswomen from
friends at Melissa all know I’m
is just “peace, peace, peace”
Galeria Melissa, twenty-three
Hare Krishna, but I only explain
– “salaam, salaam, salaam”
year old Maiara Dantas, whose
it when I see some interest
in Arabic.
Hare Krishna name is Prabhu-
and most of the time they are
For Thais the notion of
pada Priya and twenty-seven
very interested, because they
paradise is also crystal clear,
year old Daniela Sanchez (Dani)
find everything to be differ-
and clearly Buddhist: “A world
who is a believer of Kardec’s
ent!” Many have already been
where every being appreci-
Spiritualism. “Where I work,
to Maiara’s temple, and really
ates the other more than
I meet many girls and get to
enjoyed it.
themselves”. She says that in
The discussions began with
have a closer understanding of
Buddhism there’s the devel-
other religions. I like to listen
HARE HARE
oping of the self and internal
about practices and to talk
“The Hare Krishnas chant the
qualities. There’s no practicing
about the subject” says Dani, a
Maha, a mantra, with our
of the Kadamppa Buddishm
Sao Paulo native.
prayer beads called Japa-Mala
without it totally becoming
She talks about the impor-
(a 108 bead pieces similar to
part of your life. To learn how
tance of the Law of Cause and
a rosary). This mantra became
to develop love, patience, and
Effect for Spiritists: “Do good
very famous because of Beatle,
other virtues is something
and receive good, you attract
George Harrison, another
that transcends study hours
what you transmit. I believe in
Krishna believer, and recently
and becomes a 24-hour life
that deeply, I feel it in every
because of a Nando Reis’ song”
philosophy, applied to all and
small gesture, every smile. It
explains Maiara, while singing
every living being.” Thais is a
really works!”
the verses: Hare Krishna Hare
Photography graduate who’s
Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare
also in public relations.
what religion, thinks about
Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama
“Paradise is peace of
the next person and does unto
Rama Rama Hare Hare. “It’s
spirit. When one’s at ease with
others the good they expect for
simple, easy, and a pleasure to
oneself and with life even
themselves the world will be
sing”, says the Santo André-
doing the dishes at a party,
more harmonious and there’ll
born girl, who’s gearing up to
you know? I don’t believe in
be mutual respect. We will be
learn Indian dance.
paradise after death. For me it
better at accepting differences.
Thais Carvalho is a Buddhist.
is in the moments of true and
To understand people and their
“I walk in a circle where
full joy, in life!” says Barbara
elevation practices can only be
people are basically agnostic or
Santos, a 29 year-old Umbanda
a positive thing, we can mix
practice oriental philosophies
believer. She is an advertiser
all we find good and create
such as Yoga, Hinduism, and
born in Rio de Janeiro and
“If everyone, no matter from
73
Nura Mourad, Muslim, wears Melissa Peace, and
Thais Carvalho, Buddhist, wears Melissa Union
74
Plastic Dreams
75
Daniela Sanchez,
Kardec’s Spiritist,
wears Melissa
Campana Paper, and
Prabhupada Priya,
Hare Krishna, wears
Melissa Galactic
Dandara Inocêncio Couta da Silva, Catholic,
wears Melissa Ultragirl + J. Maskrey
works as a social media ad-
year-old Jew who is studying In-
That’s why I see no sense in
who belongs to a Don Bosco
ministrative manager at a Sao
ternational Relations. She works
conflicts and wars in the name
Salesian church. Although
Paulo bistro.
for Sao Paulo’s mayor office.
of God, but in keeping all the
the youngest melisseiras
good things religion brings.
interviewed for this article
“I’d never thought about
“If everyone, no
matter from what
religion, thinks
about the next
person the world
will be more
harmonious”, says
Dani Sanchez. to
prabhupada priya,
“everyone must
follow what they
think is coherent”.
what paradise was. But I think
RELIGION AND CULTURE
Different ethnic groups, social
she synthesizes the idea of
the word ‘lightness’ sums it up.
While discussing Jewish culture
classes, and religions should be
multi ecumenical encounter
Paradise on Earth is lightness
with a close friend, Esther real-
in sync”, says Esther, who was
promoted by Plastic Dreams
for the human being whether
ized it’s more of a tradition than
born in France.
in the following statesment:
at the beach, the office or at
a religion. “The family’s union
home with family and friends.
in certain moments, its teach-
ent with the faith that unites
other religions is completely
The world suffers from a lack of
ings, the stories transmitted
my family to my spirit and my
normal because I respect their
lightness. People feel every-
from generation to generation
spirit to my family, besides
beliefs and ideas and expect
thing too intensely, too heavily,
and knowledge. I believe this
filling me with humanitarian
to be treated the same way.
too sadly. They take everything
aspect is present in many other
thoughts it gives me guidance
Paradise for me is somewhere
to extremes and I think we
religions, if not in all of them.”
which makes me an even
with my family and the people
better person everyday. That’s
I care about, full of love,
should delete this rush, this
“Not sharing the same ideals
“Religion makes itself pres-
“My experience with girls from
phobia, and try to be light
doesn’t mean war, but it does
why it’s so important to me”
peace, and respect for the next
among us and with ourselves.
help to learn how to listen,
confirms Dandara Inocêncio
person.” It’s that simple.
My paradise is light...” says
how to speak, to respect and
Couto da Silva. She is a 14
“The thing is to want and
Esther Madeleine Leblanc, a 22
understand the other person.
years-old Catholic student
search for good. There might
76
Plastic Dreams
77
Barbara Santos, Umbandist, wears Melissa Severine + Thaís
Losso, and Esther LeBlanc, Jew, wears Melissa Furadinha
be millions of religions and
after converting that she
de Neve Church. “I’m thankful
at nightclubs) who seeks the
differences among them, but
learned how to really love, to
for everything and ask for more
best in Christian music, be it
we’ll always have something
forgive, to focus on real aims
protection, discernment, guid-
rap, soul, rock, or other alter-
in common”, says Barbara.
for her life. She says religion
ance for my decisions, freedom
native styles.
She thinks Umbanda has more
taught her not to judge and
of past hurts and our human
to do with Spiritism and Bud-
to feel more accepted. ”I’m
mistakes, and wisdom. It’s
dises, Carol thinks paradise will
dhism but she likes to listen to
a lesbian and I’ll get married
more like a safe haven for love,
only be fully achieved in a
what people with other beliefs
this year. I’m very blessed. I
comfort, and directions than a
clean, light, and free spiritual
think, “Everyone must be what
have everything I need to live
rigid prayer”, she explains.
world. But she also thinks it’s
he or she wants to be, without
and I’m happy. I pray everyday
Carol says she lives easily
possible to bring more of this
prejudice”.
before going to bed, just to say
with people from any religion
heavenly paradise to our daily
thank you.”
and doesn’t try to “convert
lives while we are still here,
Advertiser Carol Sanchez,
them with an annoying insis-
depending on each person’s
something obscure and that
29, also prays everyday. She
tence”. “God Himself is much
faith: “For me it’s the daily
brings evil, when it’s actually
works as a project manager
bigger than any religiosity or
search to live what’s best on
a religion filled with love and
of a digital agency and for 12
opinion division”. She is an
Earth with the people we love,
free of prejudices” explains
years she’s been a Protestant
avid music fan (with seven-
building a path that’ll lead me
Barbara. She says that it was
Christian, baptized in the Bola
years experience of working
to the true, eternal paradise”.
“There are religions with a
wrong image of Umbanda as
Outside of artificial para-
Respect for
differences
allows one to
become a better
person which
will ultimately
unite girls
from different
generations and
lifestyles.
Carolina Sanchez, a
Bola de Neve Church
adept, wears Melissa
Virtue, and her daughter
Valentina wears
Melissa Campana Baby
78
Brian Bielmann/ red bull PHOTOFILE
Plastic Dreams
79
For many, paradise is the blue sea of Hawaii, but
for 5 FEET 6 INCHES tall Maya Gabeira, she prefers to catch a 50 FEET high wave!
To get to Maya Gabeira’s
six times a week Maya spends
or a helicopter. You also need
one hour in the gym, exercising
to endure apnea for a couple
strength, explosion, and speed.
of minutes. Stay calm. Fear of
If there are waves, she surfs
heights is unthinkable, and
between three to six hours;
storms are welcome. Names
then there’s the apnea training
and geographical locations can
in the pool that can last for
vary _ Jaws, in Hawaii; Maver-
three hours, and free diving
icks, in California, or All Saints,
in the sea. All this hard work
in Mexico _ but the goal is the
has paid off for the Rio native.
same: giant waves.
Before turning 25 she has al-
The daughter of writer and
ready surfed in Alaska (yes, in
journalist Fernando Gabeira and
the middle of the ice and cold!)
fashion designer Yamê Reis, she
and has claimed six important
is a specialist in tow in surfing.
titles: the Billabong XXL four
Maya began surfing as a hobby
times, the 2009 ESPY award for
when she was 14, at the Ar-
an action sports athlete, and
poador Beach in Rio de Janeiro.
the 2010 Teen Choice Awards
Today she’s one of a handful of
in the extreme sports category.
women skilled enough to face
But even with all this train-
these big walls of water, that
ing and preparation, accidents
can reach between 15 to 35
are an inevitable part of the
meters in height (as tall as a 5
sport. Falls and lesions are not
to 12-story building).
uncommon (she has broken her
“It’s not a common sport
nose over ten times). The risk
among women, but I chose
can be even more serious, like
it because I identified myself
the death at sea for accom-
with it. I love the challenge of
plished big wave surfer Sion
riding a giant wave. It’s a very
Milosku in 2011. Do you think
big adrenaline rush, a eupho-
that makes her fear death?
ria, an enormous realization”,
No way! “I fear more hurting
says Maya.
myself very badly“, she says.
Being able to stand on the
In order to train and be close
to her passion _ giant waves,
Craig Kolesky/ red bull PHOTOFILE
board is not enough to master
WATER
DREAMS
this sport. Training is tough:
paradise you need a jet ski _
Text
Maíra Goldschmidt
Maya Gabeira, 25, surfs towed into
a wave in Hout Bay, Cape Town
80
Plastic Dreams
Maya lives strategically in
and her boards, bikini, iPhone
schedule and last year she
the fan of brands like Alexander
Encinitas, to the North of San
and Macbook ; it’s not a
surfed the fashion wave. In
Wang, Jbrand, Urban Outfitters
Diego, California. But between
coincidence that Apple founder
a partnership with Billabong,
and All Saints. Contrary to what
October and March she’s based
Steve Jobs’ biography is on her
her sponsor, she launched a
some might think, there wasn’t
in the Oahu Island, in Hawaii.
bedside table.
capsule-collection of dresses,
a strong influence by her
shirts, shorts and bikinis. “I love
mother in the collection. “I fol-
The rest of the year she spends
Maya doesn’t live just for the
in Tahiti, Indonesia, Mexico,
sea. She’s also a sophomore in
fashion and I feel very proud to
lowed my inspirations, she just
South Africa, Fiji or (literally!)
Journalism, studying online to
have my name on pieces I love,
gave her final opinion”, said
wherever the wind blows her
compliment her hectic travel
and that look like me”, gushes
the surfer.
81
Pedro Lourenço
joins the team
Photos
Marcio Madeira
good reviews
In his praised Summer 2013 collection
(left), Pedro collaborated with Russian
video artist Kon Trubkovich, presenting TV statics, plaids and horse heads
that were printed in two layer fabrics,
creating optical effects. At Style.com,
MELISSA
no.1 + pedro
lourenço
Nicole Phelps wrote that he “must’ve
driven his patternmakers crazy to get
results so striking”. At WWD, they observed that the designer “successfully
softned things with sheer dresses”.
MELISSA
divine + pedro
lourenço
Maya Gabeira at the beach with the Dois Irmaos mountain in the background, Rio de Janeiro
“I love the rush, the challenge, and the realization of riding a
giant wave”, says Maya, who has a brand with her name.
Carlos Serrao/red bull photofile
The young designer, who
shows his collections
in Paris, co-partners
with Melissa on two
new styles.
zine). We already adored each
other’s work. The entire journey
has been easy, pleasurable and
very fun.
PD How was the process of
creating this product, and
what was it inspired by? What
did you want to translate
through plastic?
PL I wanted to create a classic
woman’s skin, and vice-versa.
I did the same with plastic,
very exciting!
tremely feminine, with a fresh
PD Who would you like to
see wearing your Melissa
creations?
PL I thought about true fans
combination of colors. I was
and real consumers of Melissa
medium are amazing. I’ve
inspired by the actual Melissa
in every creative decision I
always been in love with the
fans, who I feel are girls who
took during this process. If they
idea of a finished product being
want to feel secure and
wear it, I’ve reached my goal!
PLASTIC DREAMS How did this
partnership come about?
Pedro Lourenço I was introduced
ejected from a machine, like
feminine. I also wanted to see
They were the girls that truly
Melissa’s injection molding
the plastic integrating with the
inspired me.
machines, and being able to
skin. Plastic has a lushness,
to Melissa’s team by Erika
create forms and reliefs without
different from natural fabrics.
Palomino (Creative Consultant
fusions. I couldn’t work with this
In my creations I love to
for the brand and also Editor-in-
material with any other brand as
give the impression of the
PD And did you like the
final result?
PL Very much! The girls in my
Chief of PLASTIC DREAMS maga-
qualified and creative as Melissa.
fabric transforming itself on a
creative team went crazy for it!
Lourenço, 21, on its team of co-
PD Why did you decide to work
with Melissa? What attracts
you in the brand?
PL The possibilities of plastic as a
partners. Check out the process
behind his creations for Melissa.
Melissa is proud and honored
to have Brazilian prodigy, Pedro
style, equally desirable and ex-
82
Plastic Dreams
passion
+ devotion
Photo Vivi Bacco and Juliana Nallini
Set Design Frank Dezeuxis
Here is Drika Satkunas’ Melissa collection,
made up of 350 pairs….and counting!
It’s usually said that Melissa
Melissa fans
demonstrate
their passion by
collecting pairs, shown
here on a very special ‘altar’.
83
the Melissa World. They become
the new styles look like.
But there is also a special
remember two things when
is a brand that doesn’t have
excited even before the release
clients but fans. And for them,
of a new collection, trying to
group of Melissa devotees,
thinking about Melissa: the
first time they bought a pair
Melissa is truly a religion.
discover clues _ both online and
located all over the world,
(a cult that can pass from
This global community is
in real life _ about the theme;
who collect styles to keep,
generation to generation) and
intensely passionate about
what will be the next PLASTIC
cherish and of course wear.
how many models they have
everything that has to do with
DREAMS cover be and what will
For these special fans, they
in their closet.
84
Plastic Dreams
85
ALWAYS FUN
Pictured clockwise, Brazilian MTV VJ
MariMoon; models Débora and Patrícia
Muller; Samira Carvalho and Mariana
Calazans; Barbara Berger; a special bonding of Melissas; Bruna Tenório; blogger
Betty Autier, from Le Blog de Betty
and Marina Nery. Every fashion season,
Melissa hosts a special encounter of fans
- it-girls, jet-setters, models, fashionistas
- providing fun and color for all.
THE NEW PLACE
TO LOOK AT
With Brazil’s growing
Photos Maria Clara Diniz
representation of what Brazil
Melissa also seizes the
was to interact with the public.
Melissa consumers. In tribute to
relevance in both political and
to look at. There are many sig-
will be in two or three years,
opportunity at these fashion
The lounge was like a mutant
our brand’s fans (called Melis-
and in Sao Paulo were assem-
a pink Vivienne Westwood
economic fields, it’s only natural
nals. Sao Paulo is becoming the
and Brazilian fashion shows are
events to present its new col-
crossword puzzle - with towers
seiras) we selected thousand
bled as open areas so everyone
Anglomania + Melissa Lady
that interest from the global
new Berlin of South America. It’s
full of enthusiasm.”
lection to market professionals
of colorful cubes. The cross-
of photos posted online and on
could see the new products.
Dragon Heart, a black & silver
fashion market would intensify
very creative, and very different
and the general public. On any
words created a magical setting
social networks (mainly from
Melissa also invited French
Melissa Aileron + Gareth Pugh,
as well.
from the tough time Europe is
for creativity, beautiful and
given day, up to 8,000 people
with moving cubes forming
facebook.com/OfficialMelissa
blogger Betty, from leblogdebet-
a gray Melissa Seduce, a coral
going through”, explained the
pleasant people, and new ideas.
pass through the iconic building,
words such as “love”, “plastic”,
and melissa.com.br), a process
ty.com, to Sao Paulo, where she
red Melissa Wind and a beige
ion editors are travelling with
news editor of Italian “Marie
Melissa has done a great mar-
designed by architect Oscar Nie-
“music” and “celebration” in
started several weeks before.
covered the event for her read-
Melissa Virtue), plus Brazilian
more frequency to Sao Paulo’s
Claire”, Antonio Mancinelli, to
keting job internationally, very
meyer, which houses Sao Paulo
a true cloud of imaginary and
And as a bonus: 700 lucky Me-
ers and had fun getting to know
candies, cookies and, of course,
and Rio de Janeiro’s fashion
website FFW. For him “fashion is
smart, collaborating with other
Fashion Week.
collective paradise.
lisseiras faces were chosen to
Brazil and its fashion up close.
lots of clothes!
events, searching for inspira-
always a nation’s and a society’s
designers”, declares Antonio
be part of the façade of Galeria
She took back with her several
tions and products.
mirror. Brazilian fashion is a
Mancinelli in the interview.
Melissa Sao Paulo.
pairs of Melissa from the new
Important buyers and fash-
“I think Brazil is the new place
Since 2001 Melissa
has participated at
Sao Paulo Fashion Week,
the most important fashion
event in Latin America.
“Brazil is becoming a brand
At both Fashion Rio and Sao
Paulo Fashion Week, the goal
In addition to this, LCD
screens lit up with the faces of
The brand’s spaces in Rio
collection (a black Melissa Peace,
That’s how we make paradise, with lots of cool people.
86
Plastic Dreams
It’s time
to shine
The booty
boot trend
06
05
01 Vivienne
01 Melissa Ankle
Westwood
Anglomania +
Melissa Skyscraper
02 Melissa Cross
03 Alessandra
Ambrosio loves
Melissa Incense
Glitter 04 Melissa
Ultragirl Glitter
05 Comme des
Garçons Fall 2012
06 Lanvin Fall 2012
Melissa Devotion
03 Flocked
Vivienne
Westwood
Anglomania +
Melissa Protection
04 Flocked
Melissa Protection
05 Hermès Fall
2012 06 Isabel
Marant Fall 2012
PHotos marcio madeira
05
Boot Tricot
02 Flocked
THE WESTERN AND FOLK WAVE THAT IS
APPEARING ON THE CATWALKS ALL OVER THE
WORLD ARE ALSO PART OF MELISSA’S
WINTER COLLECTION. COWGIRL STYLE
BOOTS CREATED FROM PLASTIC
WITH LEATHER AND SUEDE
LOOK FINISHES.
PHotos marcio madeira
SPARKS AND METALS SWEEP THE
CATWALKS, AS MELISSA REINFORCES
THE TREND BY ADDING
GLITTER TO OVER A DOZEN
PRODUCTS.
87
06
01
04
04
02
02
01
03
03
Glitter, which was success-
moment of the day.
ankle boot inspired design in
Melissa Zig Zag are back in
Earth tones, fringes, leather,
that idea in mind, Melissa
finish to simulate the same
tion with a whimsical bow on
This season has several
silver or gold. Melissa Incense
shades ranging from black to
ponchos, rodeos, checks, boots...
produced some of the collec-
weathered look of leather _
the front. Sold in solid colors
Summer collection, continues
sparkly flats and low heels
Glitter displays a bow on the
pearly pink.
Western trends are everywhere
tion’s most emblematic styles,
available in black brown and
of green and black as well as
to shine in Paradise Plastic.
to choose from. They include
back of the shoe made from
for Winter, 2012. They can be
such as Melissa Protection and
gray. There are also additional
flocked versions in light pink
It lends charm, brightness,
Melissa Virtue Special, a loafer
black or silver glitter. Glitter
discreetly and is incorporated
seen on celebrities and at sev-
Vivienne Westwood Anglomania
styles which have the appear-
and navy blue.
richness and glamour to this
which comes in black, gold
can also be found in Vivienne
in the double bows of Melissa
eral runway shows in Brazil and
+ Melissa Protection.
ance of suede and are avail-
winter collection. There are
or pink.
Westwood Anglomania + Me-
Divine. The use of glitter is
abroad. Apache Indians, large
Although made of plastic,
lissa Skyscraper which come
in sync with the sparks and
buckles, western arabesques,
Melissa Protection resembles
in red, silver or navy blue.
metal trends so prevalent on
horse saddles and riding gear
the classic cowgirl boot. It is
the catwalks and in the world
are some of the elements that
ankle high, with a low heel
a boot to call her own and
of nail polish and makeup.
have influenced design. With
and uses a rustic washed
created a fun version of Protec-
fully introduced in Melissa’s
no shortage of options with a
There are a number of
dozen glittery products from
choices for the person who
flats to sneakers to scarpins,
wants something really
for you to shine every
special. Melissa Cross is an
Hits like Melissa Ultragirl,
Melissa Campana Paper and
Oh! Glitter also shines
In keeping with the western
able in emerald green, brown
theme Melissa has also pro-
and light pink.
duced two additional styles,
Vivienne Westwood wanted
Melissa Ankle Boot Tricot and
Melissa Devotion.
GO FOR IT!
Plastic Dreams
88
89
ANIMAL PLANET
the stars
of the new
collection
PEARLS, GLITTLER, SPARKLE, GLAMOUR, BOWS, LACE, AND ANIMAL PRINTS ALL HELP TO
HIGHLIGHT THE NEW WINTER COLLECTION; FULL OF NEW DESIGN AND THE SINS WE LOVE!
Melissa Virtue is born a hit. A very pop slipper with leopard
print, also available in five colors (nude, traditional,
orange, blue, and pink), this product provides a
good-humored option of classic and kitsch,
and is as colorful as they come in the
Melissa world.
Melissa Virtue
#animalprint #leopard
#ireallywantit
#newclassic
VIRTUE REMIX
Foreseeing the confirmed success of this comfortable archetype,
Melissa releases for this collection a special edition Virtue.
There are three glittered models (it’s a trend!) in
black, gold, and pink, plus four flocked options
_ in black, navy blue, red, and nude,
featuring embellishments of crowns
Melissa Virtue SPECIAL
#crowns #irock
#luxury #glamour
#rich
and arabesques. Style leaders
already have theirs,
where’s yours?
90
Plastic Dreams
THE NEW SKYSCRAPER
Inspired by Barbie shoes, Vivienne Westwood’s iconic scarpin
has been re-edited for the Plastic Paradise collection
in the form of the new Vivienne Westwood
Melissa SKYSCRAPER
#Viviennerocks #hit
#luxury #Barbie
#pearls
91
MELISSA PATCHULI
#latex #trend
#two-colored
#wedge
GLAMAZON
A best-seller for three collections, this two-colored platform wedge gets a new interpretation for Plastic
Paradise: five flocked versions. Colors now
Anglomania + Melissa Skyscraper. There are
include black, purple, red, light pink,
six versions: three with pearl chains,
and gray, always with details in
in black, white and a Chanel-like
contrasting shades which are
nude, and three glittered
what sets this style
pairs in red, silver
apart. A true hit!
and blue. Pure
glamour!
RIBBONMANIA
The 1950s glamour and divas were the inspiration for
Melissa Incense with a double bow adorning the back
and a metalic rivet on the side. This scarpin
comes in eight different colors and textures:
the classic flocked in black, solid
colors, and the glittered models
A PERFECT BOW
Flats are perrenial favorites and for Plastic Paradise we
have a new addition: Melissa Divine. Comfortable, very
ladylike, and romantic, this model sports two
Melissa INCENSE
#bowswelove
#higheels #power
#50s #glam
signed Alessandra Ambrosio
Loves Melissa.
MELISSA CROSS
#tropical #ankleboot
#artdeco
#heels
front bows and arrives in gold and silver,
plus three other laceworked versions,
another Winter 2012 trend.
GIRLS ON TOP
One of the highlight of the Plastic Paradise collection:
Melissa Cross is sort of a more opened ankle boot. A
charming extra: a stripped, cone-shaped heel
that flirts with the Art Deco aesthetic. Melissa Cross is available in five versions:
glittered in gold and silver,
Melissa DIVINE
#bow #lacework
#trend
#comfort
#cute
flocked in black and red,
and matte nude.
92
Plastic Dreams
MELISSA DREAMING +
WONDER WOMAN
#wonderwoman
#cartoon
#fun
WONDER MELISSA
The most fearless Justice League member brightens Winter up
with Melissa Dreaming + Wonder Woman, with the heroine’s figure both on the insole and on the outside
93
Melissa confessions
#dockside #almare
#80s #sporty
#fashionista
CLASSIC NAVY
Straight from the 80s, the dockside is a hit once again
among fashionistas. Meet winter 2012’s Melissa Confessions, cool and super comfortable with a navy
of this slightly pointed flat. Available in blue,
je ne sais quois, a fashion classic. Available
white, red, and black, it has a charming
in caramel, red, and black plastic,
golden pin on the side and different
plus suede-like flock in gray
patterns on each foot.
and navy. All aboard!
Mini Melissa UltragirL
#cute #baby
#love
#meow
RECYCLING IDEAS
Melissa has partnered for more than seven years with designer duo
Campana Brothers. This season we are featuring two styles:
Melissa Campana Zig Zag, a hit since 2005, and the newest release Melissa Campana Paper. – which was
inspired by their work with paper, such as the
Cardboard Couch. The style has small
waves highlighting the waves of
natural cardboard, connecting
MINI / LARGE
comfort and design.
A success amongst the small ladies with shoe sizes from 17 to 25,
the Mini Melissa family is a hit! Let’s begin with Vivienne
Westwood Anglomania + Mini Melissa Ultragirl, with lit-
MELISSA CAMPANA PAPER
#campanas
#design
#flats
tle hearts adorned in a kind of animal print. Then
there’s Mini Melissa Campana Zig Zag in new
colors such as nude, pink, lilac, and
light blue. There’s also the brand
new Mini Melissa Ultragirl,
with a kitty face on
the front. Super
cute!!!
Melissa ultragirl +
care bears
#lovealot
#bears
#luck
AUMMMM...
The 1980s cutest little bears are back. In tan, pink and teal, Melissa Ultragirl + Care Bears debuts this season - Love-a-Lot
Melissa polibolha
#sneaker #bubbles
#fashion #urban
BUBBLING
Seizing the sports wave - a reference for the upcoming seasons,
Melissa Polibolha reappears. Comfortable and very fashion-
Bear is here again and so is Good Luck Bear with lots
able, it comes 100% flocked in black and gray, black
of little clovers. Like all the products in the Care
and white, black and gold, and pink and brown.
Bears line, the flocked version in lilac and
An important detail: the insoles have
black has a metal tag featuring the
animal prints. Delicious!
bear’s face.
Plastic Dreams
creative direction EDUARDO JORDAO DE MAGALHAES photography JEON SEUNG HWAN fashion director NEIL STUART
fashion editor CHERYL KONTEH set design CORDELIA WESTON Hair KENICHI Makeup VALERIA FERREIRA
NAILS CHISATO photography assistants JED SKRZYPCZAK & MICHAEL FURLONGER
94
95
digital retouching by LIGHT LTD
photographed @ RGB PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO
Model vanessa lee (storm models)
go behind the scenes of this photo shoot
and check out the footbook on
youtube.com/melissachannel
*Due to print reproduction
some styles may have color
distortion. Not all styles shown
are currently available.
dress CHRISTIAN DIOR Vivienne Westwood ANGLOMANIA + Melissa Mule
Plastic Dreams
98
dress MARY KATRANTZOU vintage under skirt
Melissa Incense GLITTER
dress HUISHAN ZHANG wrap skirt LANVIN
Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa Gillie
Plastic Dreams
100
dress GARETH PUGH
Melissa Celestial
blouse GIVENCHY knickers CHANEL
Melissa Divine
left, dress IZMAYLOVA knickers CHANEL Melissa Devotion
104
skirt GIVENCHY bra top STELLA MCCARTNEY blouse I.D SARRIERRI Melissa jean + Jason Wu
Plastic Dreams
105
dress VERSUS
Melissa Ultragirl glitter
108
Plastic Dreams
109
Orient
Express
PLASTIC SIN
#BEHIND THE SCENES
Above left side, the model poses for Jeon Seung
Hwan and gets her hair done by Kenichi; below,
styles from Plastic Paradise collection, and
Vanessa Lee for Marios Schwab (Summer 2012)
A photographer with a
vision, an audacious set
designer, a sharp fashion
director and a model full
of energy combine for a
magical and very inspiring
fashion shoot.
Text Ilana Rehavia
Photos Pedro Ferraro
surrounds me becomes more
the light during the shots.
created for the shoot. “It was
girl with a modern beauty and
rable days in which everything
It was one of those memo-
of a long Sunday in the studio,
The fact is that, at the end
the good mood and profes-
The day started well with
important”, says the Korean
“I wanted to give a sense of
an honour to be shot by Jeon
a personality to match.”
aligns perfectly. Maybe it was
everyone shared the feeling of
sionalism of Hwan and his
photographer, who wanted to
euphoria to the photos and the
Seung Hwan”, she says. Fash-
the combination of photographer
having been part of a pivotal
assistants, deeply aware of
capture the fun and energy of
final result was quite cosmic”,
ion director Neil Stuart was
highlight the shoes from the
Jeon Seung Hwan’s vision with
point in Melissa and PLASTIC
the smallest details of light
the Melissa girl.
she declares.
set designer Cordelia Watson’s
DREAMS’ path. “It was one of
and composition. “Before a
edginess. Or the mix between
the most modern shoots in the
shoot, I research and study a
the energy brought by model
history of the magazine”, says
Vanessa Lee and the style of
Fashion Director Neil Stuart.
To compliment the set and
also full of compliments to the
Plastic Paradise collection, he
In front of the camera,
model, proving that a united
chose to dress Vanessa with
Cordelia Weston made a huge
the exotic beauty of model
team is essential to achieve
pieces that had interesting tex-
lot, but on set I automatically
metallic structure 4 meters
Vanessa Lee, a Taiwanese
such a striking result. “I loved
tures, fabrics and shapes. “And,
Creative Director Eduardo Jordão
forget everything and focus on
high. Her idea was to create
descendant, fit perfectly with
Vanessa from the moment I
of course, lots of color to em-
de Magalhães.
the moment. Everything that
interesting textures to reflect
the post-modern universe
met her. She is a cool London
brace the universe of Melissa.”
For the set background,
Ilustration Esra Røise
Dreaming
of Eve
113

- Melissa

Transcription

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