Following the release of the Xiaomi MIX Fold 3 in August last year, the Chinese tech company has unveiled the next chapter in their foldable devices story with the new Xiaomi MIX lineup, namely the Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 and the all-new Xiaomi MIX Flip.
Both devices are equipped with the Xiaomi HyperOS which is an operating system designed for better multitasking and enhanced productivity, and creates a connected system which allows you to integrate seamlessly with other Xiaomi devices.
XIAOMI MIX FLIP
As the new kid on the block in the compact foldable market, Xiaomi introduces the Xiaomi MIX Flip which leverages the brand’s years of technological experience to create a compact foldable device with exceptional capabilities.
Featuring a 4-inch All Around Liquid outer display with a quad-curved design, you will be able to use the phone in its compact mode without flipping open the device. Coupled with a 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR support and eye protection, among others, you are guaranteed to experience consistent performance from the inner to the outer display.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, the Xiaomi MIX Flip is one of the few compact foldable devices with an up-to-date flagship chipset as well as a redesigned 3D cooling system so that heat is evenly distributed and not accumulated.
The Xiaomi MIX Flip is equipped with the next generation of Xiaomi x Leica Summilux lenses featuring a unique 47mm Leica floating telephoto lens with a minimum focusing distance of 9cm.
When closed, the large outer display can be used with the two Leica optical lenses for photography and video recording, and even supports a makeup mirror mode where you can check your makeup before taking a photo. There’s also an option to preview your photos with the outer display before taking photos, so that you can adjust how you pose.
XIAOMI MIX FOLD 4
Fully adopting an “all-carbon architecture”, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 now comes with an improved hinge reliability that sees an overall thickness and weight significantly reduced by 34%, giving the new design an unfolded thickness of 4.59mm and a folded thickness of 9.47mm.
Like the Xiaomi MIX Flip, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 features the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform and innovative 3D cooling system to quickly dissipate heat and prevent heat buildup in an effort to ensure sustainable performance even when under heavy use.
Even though the device is thinner and more lightweight than its predecessor, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 is built with a Leica optical quad-camera system which covers all focal lengths, including the new 50MP Light Fusion 800 high dynamic range sensor for the main camera that introduces “Dual Native ISO Fusion Max” technology, for the first time, to Xiaomi’s foldable devices.
This technology provides you with more accurate colour reproduction and better detail retention in high contrast scenes.
The camera system also includes a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens for a 120-degree field of view, a 50MP Leica floating telephoto lens for portrait effects and macro photography capabilities, and a 115mm Leica ultra-telephoto lens with a periscope structure to support close-up shots.
Pricing and availability for the Xiaomi MIX Flip and Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 will be announced at a later date. For more information, click HERE.
In 2023, Hedi Slimane introduced CELINE BEAUTÉ, the luxury House’s first-ever cosmetics line. It follows in the wake of CELINE’s Haute Parfumerie collection that was launched in 2019. With this cosmetics collection, Slimane unveils bottles, pencils, cases and an entire set of luxury objects that support beauty rituals.
Directed by Slimane, here is the new LE ROUGE campaign featuring Ever Anderson, a young American actress who was first photographed by Slimane for the “Portrait Of” series in New York in May 2024.
“LE ROUGE CELINE” LIPSTICK COLLECTION CREATED BY HEDI SLIMANE FOR CELINE WILL BE LAUNCHED IN JANUARY 2025 IN 15 SATIN-FINISH COLOURS, INCLUDING THE CLASSIC NUDE SHADE “LA PEAU NUE” HIGHLIGHTING THE LIPS OF THE MODELS IN THE “TRIOMPHE” FILM.
CELINE BEAUTÉ will be available on CELINE.COM mid October 2024.
Dior’s Creative Director, Maria Grazia Chiuri unveils a modern and youthful collection that features a reinterpretation of the signature “Miss Dior” logo throughout. The pieces are designed to invoke the notion of transmission between two eras, two generations, and two fashion worlds; inspired by the ready-to-wear line dreamed up in 1967 by Marc Bohan and Philippe Guibourgé.
We see graffiti styles appearing on t-shirts, jackets, scarves, Walk’n’Dior sneakers and the iconic Dior Book Tote, and a more polished representation on the season’s exclusive novelty: the Miss Dior bag.
The Miss Dior Creations are available in Dior boutiques now, and online at DIOR.COM.
It is not uncommon to encounter moments when women feel embarrassed and hesitant to discuss their intimate health matters openly, especially because of the cultural norms within Asian societies.
In an effort to reduce the stigma associated with learning about intimate health, Bayer and Ogilvy Thailand have collaborated with medical experts to encourage conversations by translating these discussions into an engaging art experience with mixed media and interactive art.
The exhibition is divided into seven zones which includes a lab and perfume bar which presents artworks that address women’s concerns about the scent of intimate areas.
Here’s a look at some of the art installations.
The KiKi Voice art experience is running from now to 3 August at 1559 SPACE in Bangkok, Thailand.
Get ready to be transported into an immersive, new land inspired by Illumination’s popular Despicable Me and Minions franchise.
Image courtesy of UNIVERSAL DESTINATIONS & EXPERIENCES.
Created in partnership between Universal Creative and Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), the Illumination’s Minion Land is set to open at Universal Studios Singapore (USS) in 2025 featuring multiple rides, including Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and an all-new carousel exclusive to USS, as well as a variety of themed retail and dining experiences.
You will be able to experience Minion Land in three different areas, namely the Minion Marketplace, Gru’s Neighbourhood, and Super Silly Fun Land. Here’s a closer look at what you can find in each location.
MINION MARKETPLACE
Image courtesy of UNIVERSAL DESTINATIONS & EXPERIENCES.
This one is for all fans of the hilarious yellow, denim-overalls-wearing characters to stock up on all things Minions including sweets and merchandise.
At Sweet Surrender, you will find a candy-themed store featuring a diverse selection of Minion-themed apparel, plushies, home ware, sweets, and other fun souvenirs. For those seeking for more fashion forward items, the Pop Store is where you’ll find the latest fashion items and trendiest styles with a Minion twist.
If you’re looking to find a store run by the Minions, visit the Fun Store where you can also find accessories and toys.
GRU’S NEIGHBOURHOOD
Image courtesy of UNIVERSAL DESTINATIONS & EXPERIENCES.
Near to the Minion Marketplace is where you’ll find Gru’s Neighbourhood which houses the ride, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.This immersive motion simulator ride is set to bring you on an unpredictable ride through Gru’s super villain laboratory as you are transformed into Minions for his latest scheme!
SUPER SILLY FUN LAND
Image courtesy of UNIVERSAL DESTINATIONS & EXPERIENCES.
Known as the seaside carnival from Despicable Me, Super Silly Fun Land is located right across the street from Menon Marketplace and Gru’s Neighbourhood where you can enjoy rides and games as well as themed food alongside views of the lagoon.
Image courtesy of UNIVERSAL DESTINATIONS & EXPERIENCES.
The first-ever Minion dance party-themed carousel, Buggie Boogie, will make its debut at USS where you can hop aboard a fleet of space bugs and silly creatures with a soundtrack of popular songs remixed by the Minions.
Other things you can expect to find here include Silly Swirly which is a uniquely styled ride with vehicles that spin and soar through the air; and Super Hungry Food stand, an all-new restaurant unique to USS that is a version of the waterfront snack stand from Despicable Me.
Can’t wait for more? Here’s a video with a look behind-the-scenes.
Illumination’s Minion Land at Universal Studios Singapore is set to open in 2025. To keep updated and be the first to know when new details are announced, click HERE.
Lancôme introduces a new generation of Absolue Creams and skincare products. The range is inspired by nature and is the most premium from the brand. The formulas address the causes of ageing, and they aim to slow down the ageing process at the cellular level, making skin more resilient.
In their research, Lancôme has discovered the Perpetual Rose that grows throughout the year (most roses grow twice a year). It’s organically grown in the South of France, and together with the ingredient Proxylane, this formula is Lancôme’s secret to unlocking skin longevity and is crafted into the Absolue skincare range.
Lancôme’s Absolue collection covers an entire skincare regime; from lotions and iconic creams, to serums and sun protection. If you’re new to the Absolue range, here are the hero products to get.
ABSOLUE THE EYE CREAM ($220)
The Absolue Eye Cream is a brand new formulation from the brand and features Lancôme’s latest innovation powered by AI science. The silky texture is what Lancôme calls, an “iconic melting film”. The product penetrates the skin instantly and skin feels soft, smoother and hydrated. This “bouncy” texture is exceptionally comfortable and soothing.
Above: The Absolue eye cream, the newest addition to the range.
Results include less puffiness, lighter dark rings and reduced wrinkles and fine lines. Use it under the eyes, on the upper eyelids and even on the brow bone. You’ll get a more lifted eye contour.
THE SOFT CREAM ($539)
Absolue The Soft Cream is Lancôme’s best-seller and as its name implies, the texture is cloud-like, thin and of course, amazingly soft. Every application is a luxurious pampering experience.
Above: absolue the soft cream.
Almost instantly, you’ll achieve a golden glow to the skin, and it will look and feel firmer and plumper.
Above: the texture of the soft cream is amazingly soft.
Absolue Cream comes in three textures: the famous Soft Cream, The Light Cream (a slightly watery texture), and The Rich Cream (good for drier skin types). And all these are presented in refillable packaging.
Above: refillable packaging for the absolue creams.
NEW ABSOLUE ROSE 80 ($185)
This treatment essence may feel concentrated and dense on first touch, but it dries down beautifully to a lightweight non-sticky film that’s immediately nourishing to skin. Best of all, pores appear instantly minimised as well.
Above: absolue rose 80, a treatment essence.
You can apply Rose 80 with hands or a cotton pad. This is particularly great for frequent travellers who are constantly exposed to the dry air in planes.
CLEANSING BALM-TO-FOAM ($175)
Scoop the amount you need and mix this with a little water. It will get foamy and when you rinse this off, skin will feel super smooth, moisturised, and not tight at all.
Above: absolue rose 80 cleansing balm-to-foam.
GLOBAL YOUTH PROTECTING CARE SPF 50 PA++++ ($158)
This is another silky smooth product that also makes a great makeup base. It protects skin against harmful effects of the sun and is a favourite of many Lancôme users.
Above: absolue GLOBAL YOUTH PROTECTING CARE SPF 50 PA++++, an essential skincare step in the absolue range.
Above: the absolue cleansing balm-to-foam, light cream and revitalizing eye serum.
Shop Lancôme’s Absolue range of skincare at Lancôme beauty stores and counters, and online at WWW.LANCOME.COM.SG.
Fans of popular Studio Ghibli animated films can now explore the storytelling, animation and beloved characters through The World of Studio Ghibli, an exhibition that will also include 16 large-scale theatrical sets that will make you feel as if you’ve just stepped into the movie.
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Organised in collaboration with Studio Ghibli, this exhibition will mark the Japanese studio’s first showcase in Singapore that will run from 4 October 2024 to 2 February 2025. The World of Studio Ghibli was first presented in Japan in 2013 with its most recent presentation in Bangkok, Thailand.
The World of Studio Ghibli will be one of the ArtScience Museum’s biggest transformations to date, spanning 2,400 square-metres across 11 galleries of well-loved films such as My Neighbour Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, as well as the Studio’s latest film, The Boy and the Heron.
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These 11 galleries will also include 16 large-scale theatrical sets depicting iconic scenes like Totoro waiting in the rain at the bus stop with Mei and Satsuki, Howl’s Moving Castle in the valley, and our favourite — the train scene with No-Face from Spirited Away.
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In addition to these, you’ll also find 16 whimsical art installations offering a more intimate exploration and glimpse into Studio Ghibli’s creative processes. There will also be a retail shop at the end of the exhibition where you can stock up on official Studio Ghibli merchandise and souvenirs that have been designed exclusively for the exhibition at ArtScience Museum.
Tickets will go on sale from 3 August, 10am through Klook and all Marina Bay Sands box offices. Sands Lifestyle Members will get access to an exclusive pre-sale from 29 July to 2 August.
The World of Studio Ghibli will run from 4 October 2024 to 2 February 2025. For more information, click HERE.
In a bid to encourage excellence in mobile photography and support budding photographers showcase their creative skills, OPPO Singapore recently collaborated with LASALLE College of the Arts to launch an exclusive photography competition for young Singaporeans.
Themed “Rediscover Fading Traditions”, the competition sought to uncover Singapore’s rich heritage through the perspective of students from LASALLE College of the Arts.
The competition has since concluded on June 23 with multiple student winners announced, including Phoebe Natalie Fong Jing En, who clinched first place. These winning entries can be viewed on OPPO Singapore’s Instagram page.
The OPPO x LaSalle Photography Competition 2024’s winning entry taken by Phoebe Natalie Fong Jing En.
Her entry, titled “Bird Watching”, was taken at Teck Whye Aquarium and featured an old uncle watching the birds on display at the shop — an activity that was common in the 1980s-1990s but is still a popular recreational activity with the older population today.
However, this recreational activity that once brought the community together has become a fading tradition, especially with animal cruelty prevention becoming more prevalent as many bird shops are getting caught for failing basic welfare conditions, which shed light on the mistreatment of birds.
Speaking with NYLON Singapore, Phoebe shared that she had found out about the competition through her LASALLE lecturer, Tim, who had sent out an email to the Design Communication students.
“I thought that this would be a really good opportunity to expose myself to the photography industry in Singapore while building my portfolio,” said Phoebe.
Once she found out about the theme of the competition, Phoebe started to do a lot of research that looked into Singapore’s heritage where she chanced upon an article that talked about Tiong Bahru’s Singing Bird Corner.
Although the space was no longer active, Phoebe was still able to replicate the feel she wanted for her entry with a bird shop near her home that had a similar set up.
Read on more for our conversation with Phoebe:
Hi Phoebe, congratulations on winning the photography competition! How did you feel when you found out you won?
Phoebe: “My initial reaction was shock and disbelief, as I really had not expected to win at all. I entered the competition with the mindset that I was participating for the experience and to work on my photography skills, and was not aiming to win anything. However, I am very grateful and thankful that I have the honour of winning first place, and am proud to be able to showcase my work on a larger scale.
Winning this competition has also encouraged me to enter more competitions, as well as for me to continue to hone my skills in this industry, and I hope that I will be able to grow as a photographer through all these experiences.”
Were there any worries, expectations or outcomes you had for your participation in the competition?
P: “I went into this competition with an open mind, and was more excited to expand my photography skills and experience regardless of whether I would win anything or not. Of course, winning any accolade would have been a pleasant surprise and an extra reward, but I wasn’t banking on achieving first place in any way. My focus remained on improving my photography skills rather than the end result.”
What were some of your overall thoughts about participating in a competition like this?
P: “I believe that competitions like these are really useful, especially for students, because they serve as incentives for students to proudly display their creative work. Such competitions also provide them with opportunities to receive recognition and feedback from a wider audience, and I am glad that there are now more platforms that allow the creative arts to be showcased.
Through this competition I was able to expand my creative thinking to find a suitable composition that matched the theme, and am grateful to have been given a chance to participate in this competition.”
As you’re also entering the Global imagine IF Photography Awards 2024, what do you hope to achieve from your participation?
P: “I’ll be entering the Global imagine IF competition with an open mind, with the same goal to expand my photography skills. Since this competition is on a global scale, I hope to be able to receive feedback from different views and perspectives, and am also excited to see what other participants come up with! The theme for the global competition is something that excites me as well, and I am excited to see how I can portray the theme according to my own creativity.
Above all, I hope to use this opportunity to have fun experimenting more with photography, and I hope my passion for photography continues to grow.”
Global imagine IF Photography Awards 2024
Aside from the photography competition that OPPO Singapore launched with LASALLE College of the Arts, OPPO has launched the 2024 edition of its yearly competition that celebrates imagination and creativity through photos captured using OPPO smartphones around the world.
One winner will walk away as the OPPO imagine IF Master with a cash prize of USD $24,000 and the opportunity to showcase their entries at an international exhibition like the Paris Photo.
If you’re a budding photographer interested in flexing your creativity, you can submit your entry here. All entries have to be submitted by 28 July and winners will be announced in early September.
For more information on the OPPO Global imagine IF Photography Awards 2024, click HERE.
Conversation with the OPPO imagine IF — APAC Reno Portrait Awards, Reno Master Prize 2024 Winner
Another aspect of the imagine IF Photography Awards 2024 was the OPPO imagine IF — APAC Reno Portrait Awards that has since concluded with Singaporean photographer Glin Gwee coming out on top as the winner of the Reno Master Prize.
Having discovered the competition through a friend who shared the link with her, Glin said that it was the idea of an open-ended brief that “truly piqued” her interest.
“It’s refreshing to encounter a project that encourages interpretation and allows me to exercise my creativity without being confined by rigid constraints,” said Glin.
Photo courtesy of Glin Gwee.
Expanding on the theme “Stand Out, In Portrait”, Glin decided to photograph her grandmother as her subject, to create “authentic, intimate” portraits of her and to also cherish the time they had together.
Read on for more of our conversation with Glin:
Hi Glin! Could you share what the story is behind your submitted entry?
Glin: “It’s easy for me to revert to my usual methodical and professional approach that frequently emphasises perfection. I had to remind myself to deviate from my habits and tackle this project from a different angle.
One day, as I listened to my mother talk about her frequent visits to my grandmother, who is nearing a century of life, it dawned on me that I had never taken a proper photograph of her, despite my photography career. Given her age and the communication challenges she faces, it reaffirmed my decision to make her the focal point of my work and seize this opportunity to not only create authentic, intimate portraits of her but also to cherish our time together.
I believed that these images would be cherished by my family and loved ones as valuable mementos, regardless of the competition outcome. I wanted to see any victory as a bonus, not the primary focus—just go with the flow, not overthink it, and simply shoot. When I learned that my photographs had won the Reno Master Prize, I was filled with an exceptional sense of achievement and delight!”
What motivated or inspired you to participate in the competition?
G: “It’s the idea of an open-ended brief that truly piqued my interest. It’s refreshing to encounter a project that encourages interpretation and allows me to exercise my creativity without being confined by rigid constraints. I saw that as a chance to reconnect with the essence of what drew me to photography in the first place.”
Photo courtesy of Glin Gwee.
You represented Singapore in the competition — could you share some of your thoughts about this?
G: “When I initially participated in the competition, I entered without consciously considering my identity as a Singaporean photographer. When I won, the sudden realization that I had also represented my country at an Asia-Pacific scale, felt like a deeply humbling privilege. It’s heartwarming to know that my work has contributed to Singapore’s presence within the international photography community.”
Offering a unique touring concept dedicated to Dior’s iconic bag, the Lady Dior, the House of Dior invites you to the Lady Dior House at 5 Jiak Kim Street where you’ll get to experience the iconic bag through its many reinventions from now to 11 August.
Image courtesy of Dior.
The Lady Dior bag is a symbol of haute couture with its instantly recognisable structured lines, metal charms that pay homage to the founder of the House of Dior, and canework pattern inspired by the Napoleon III chairs that Christian Dior used to seat guests at his shows.
Since 2016, the House of Dior has given artists from all around the world the opportunity to revisit the Lady Dior bag and turn it into a work of art through the Dior Lady Art Project.
Image courtesy of Dior.
Each reinterpretation provides a challenge for the artist to exercise their creative freedom while utilising their remarkable skills to create imaginative pieces. More than 80 leading figures of the art scene have already taken part such as Ha Chong-Hyun, Mariko Mori, Jeffrey Gibson, Alex Gardner and Minjung Kim.
Image courtesy of Dior.
The Lady Dior House in Singapore will see 32 different pieces from creatives such as Daniel Arsham, Angélique, Alice Anderson Studio, Wonmin Park, James Shaw, Javier Toro Blum, Tia-Thuy Nguyen, Martin Parr and Yuriko Takahi, as well as unique pieces from Singapore artists Grace Tan, Genevieve Chua, and Samuel Xun.
Here’s a peek at what you can find at the exhibition.
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The Lady Dior House exhibition runs from now to 11 August and is located at 5 Jiak Kim Street.
Admission is through appointments only and you can book your viewing slots HERE.
Infusing a solar, almost magical energy into CHANEL makeup for the Summer, Global Makeup Creative Partner and member of the COMETES COLLECTIVE Ammy Drammeh, has created the Summer 2024 Makeup Collection featuring rich, varied shades in vibrant colours such as electric greens, luminous oranges, fuchsia pinks and violet blues.
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Exclusive Complexion Creation Blush and Highlighter Duo
The limited-edition Exclusive Complexion Creation Blush and Highlighter Duo (S$111 each) is available in two shades, namely the Gold and Peach, for a natural healthy glow with a subtle tan, and the Light and Berry, which has a pink pearlescence highlighter for an iridescent look and matte fuchsia pink blusher that suits all complexions.
Aiming to provide you with the opportunity to wear the colours that best suits you, the limited-edition colours of the Stylo Ombre Et Contour (S$56 each) will make it possible to create numerous makeup looks easily while having fun with colours that you might not dare to wear on a daily basis.
The colours available as part of this collection are: Célestial Pink, Nuage Bleu, Néon Dahlia, Dream Leaf, Atardecer, and Attaya.
Creating a glimmering effect that sculpts the face, enhancing both sophisticated makeup and the most natural looks, the Baume Essentiel (S$73 each) features two limited-edition shades — Moonlight Kiss and Solar Glow.
Moonlight Kiss offers a rose gold shade that gives your cheeks a radiant, luminous glow that can be worn on the tops of your cheekbones as well as on the brow bone, the nose and the inner corner of the eyelids.
Solar Glow features a coppery bronze that offers warm nuances to elevate the complexion on darker skins and highlights the skin with a tan sheen on lighter skins.
Designed to be protective and long-lasting, the Le Vernis by CHANEL (S$46 each) offers three new nail colours, two of which are limited edition colours — Songe d’Été and Faun.
Rêveuse is a metallic golden green inspired by the fantastic colours of insects found in certain tropical forests while Songe d’Été is a rosy pearlescent topcoat that you can wear alone or over colour to give it an entirely different look.
Rounding up the new colours for Summer is Faun, a rich, easy to wear brown shade that conveys the entire spirit of the CHANEL Summer 2024 makeup collection.
The Chanel Summer 2024 Makeup Collection is available now at all CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty boutiques and online here.
Saint Laurent Tan Lines is the latest summer campaign by Creative Director, Anthony Vaccarello. It features a series of evocative visuals by photographer Henrik Purienne captured in the hot atmosphere of the season.
There’s a sense of nostalgia with each photo, depicting scenes familiar to summer; lounging by the pool, tanning under the divider of a tennis court (featuring a Saint Laurent vanity bag, no less), and doing the unachievable, that is cycling out in 10cm heels — the bicycle being an exclusive item developed with Californian specialist Micargi.
In the same Rive Droite collection, you’ll see other specially curated lifestyle products including a star pattern tennis racket and matching tennis balls by Wilson, and a unique chromed motorcycle helmet by the English luxury brand Hedon.
Both bicycle and helmet will be available from August 1st.
Hoping to ignite a passion for artistic exploration on 35mm film and Instax Mini instant film, Lomography presents the Egon Schiele Camera Collection which showcases the artwork of visionary Austrian artist, Egon Schiele, on new editions of the Lomo’Instant Automat Camera & Lens and the LomoApparat 21mm Wide-angle camera.
A pivotal figure in the Austrian expressionist movement and one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Egon Schiele’s is known for his bold and daring artworks which include figurative works, self-portraits, and portraits that express a deeply personal and unique aesthetic.
LOMO’INSTANT AUTOMAT CAMERA AND LENSES
Featuring Egon Schiele’s sketches and gold detailing, this fully automatic instant camera is an artistic expression on the Instax Mini film.
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The Lomo’Instant Automat Camera and Lenses (S$279) is not only easy to use but allows you to automatically adjust the aperture, shutter speed and flash output so that each shot is impeccably lit.
You can also create unique instant images using the multiple exposure mode, craft long exposures and add coloured flash filters for extra creativity.
Each camera comes with Fisheye, Wide-angle, Close-up and Splitzer lenses as well as a remote control lens cap for self-portraits and shake-free shots.
Here’s a look at how the photos will turn out.
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LOMOAPPARAT 21MM WIDE-ANGLE CAMERA
Showcasing two of Egon Schiele’s most praised artworks, the Lomoapparat 21mm Wide-Angle Camera (S$149) is a lightweight 35mm film camera with a wide-angle 21mm lens as well as fixed settings for perfect exposures and a built-in flash filter slider with coloured filters, multiple exposure and bulb shooting modes.
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It also comes with three interchangeable lens attachments namely the Close-up Lens for sharp shots as close as 0.2 metres, the Splitzer lens that can slice and dice images into wedges of any size, and the Kaleidoscope Lens for a unique effect.
Here’s a look at how the photos will turn out.
[CLICK ON THE IMAGES FOR MORE.]
The Egon Schiele Camera Collection is available for purchase online HERE.
Back for its 15th edition this year, the Singapore Night Festival returns to the Bras Basah Bugis precinct from 23 August to 7 September, taking place, for the first time, over three weekends!
Photo courtesy of National Heritage Board.
Inspired by the historical significance of the precinct as the birthplace of some of Singapore’s first schools, the theme of this year’s festival explores the Art of Play and illuminates the precinct’s rich educational history with engaging and immersive artworks that dives deep into the concept of play and childhood.
This year, you will get to enjoy an extra weekend to explore the festival offerings including new locations within the precinct such as a late-light Festival Village at GR.iD, and Night Lights artwork at Bugis Street Art Lane, as well as four Festival Villages — each offering a different festival experience.
Here’s a closer look at what to expect at this year’s Singapore Night Festival.
WONDER WORLD — THE MACHINE OF NOSTALGIA
Photo courtesy of Sam Lo “SKL0”.
As the highlight act of the festival, expect to be transported to a whimsically charming amusement park that takes inspiration from Singapore’s amusement parks of yesteryears.
The project, led by local contemporary artist Sam Lo (a.k.a SKL0), Wonder World is an experience that reimagines the magic of the amusement parks in the 1950s, while inviting you to ponder the co-existence and balance between preserving heritage and embracing modernity, and where nostalgia places in today’s society.
At Wonder World, you can expect to find rides, game stalls, nostalgic trades with a reimagined twist at The Bizarre Bazaar, live performances, and a wrestling ring where you can experience both wrestling and poetry performances featuring iconic characters from Singapore’s past. You can also win or buy exclusive merchandise at the Meritocratic Gift Shop!
Photo courtesy of National Heritage Board.
In addition to the amusement park, you will find larger-than-life billboards featuring a series of murals set in an alternate 1950s universe by SKL0 and local artists Djohan Hanapi, Ben Qwek/LABSIXFIVE, Kristal Melson and New World Plaza, and brought to life with Samsung’s Galaxy AI.
Early bird ticket sales for Wonder World — The Machine of Nostalgia starts from now to 17 August at S$20.
Tickets will go at S$25 from 18 August to 7 September. For more information, click HERE.
NIGHT LIGHTS INSTALLATIONS
Ten everyday spaces around the Bras Basah Bugis precinct will come alive at night with luminous installations inspired by the concept of play.
Photo courtesy of Pop GlitterFreak Collective.
As a new location for the Singapore Night Festival, Bugis Street Art Lane will be home to a creative installation by Pop GlitterFreak Collective called Delulu High which transforms a lively gymnasium space into a light, soft and feminine area where you can explore the Disco Bus and Affirmation Steps that aims to turn the dreaded aspects of school into playful and healing experiences.
Photo courtesy of Rizman Putra.
Inspired by the Stamford Arts Centre’s long history as home to various educational institutions, The Happiest Days of Our Lives by Rizwan Putra is a blacklight immersive mural that aims to evoke childhood nostalgia with images from the early 60s to 90s alongside vintage illustrations.
Photo courtesy of Jaxton Su.
Paying homage to a Red House bakery that once stood where Carlton Hotel is today, artist Jaxton Su will be transporting you back in time with Red House Café, an experiential artwork featuring geometric shapes resembling popular bakery items like curry puffs and cakes.
Photo courtesy of Aaron Lim and Quek Jia Qi.
Take a trip down memory lane with Aaron Lim and Quek Jia Qi’s First Flight where you’ll be greeted with an interactive larger-than-life illuminated paper plane installation that is reminiscent of the time in school where foolscap paper were used to make paper airplanes.
Photo courtesy of KIMBAB:).
Aside from local artists, you’ll also find installations from regional artists like Thai interactive installation artist KIMBAB:) and his immersive interactive installation, Fortune Beads — inspired by abacus beads, located at Funan Mall.
Photo courtesy of Aesop.
Over at the National Design Centre, you’ll find cosmetics and skincare brand Aesop’s Scent of Being, a multi-sensory experience which takes place in a mythical forest and uses each of Aesop’s eleven Eau de Perfume as a guiding light that will lead you to the unveiling of a new fragrance.
PROJECTION MAPPING
As a staple of the festival, this year’s projection mapping installations will showcase a blend of nostalgia, imagination and creativity on the facades of two cultural buildings — both of which were once schools!
Hosting a projection mapping work for the first time, The Peranakan Museum will feature a co-created work by regional artists and international collectives called Between Threads, which is inspired by elements from the museum’s collection, including textiles and artefacts to celebrate the intricate artistry and diverse perspectives of Peranakan communities.
CHIJMES will come alive with four captivating works, namely PINBOLA, Play Downstairs, Whimsical Odyssey and A Prototype of Play, from featured artists who are a part of Singapore Night Festival’s Projection Masterclass.
The Singapore Night Festival will run from 23 August to 7 September and offers free admission with selected ticketed programmes. For more information, click HERE.
Luxury fashion brand Balenciaga has launched their first-ever application developed for the recently released Apple Vision Pro.
Available for download on the device, the new Balenciaga app lets you experience the Balenciaga Spring 25 show, that was earlier staged in Shanghai on 30 May, in an entirely unique way featuring exclusive drone views and stereoscopic footage.
The experience is further supported with an interactive lookbook feature and access to past collection content, which can be explored in another dimension, offering you an opportunity to see Balenciaga creations in a virtual space that showcases the details and artistry of the brand’s physical garments.
Since Creative Director Demna’s appointment to the brand in 2015, Balenciaga has embraced a variety of digital initiatives that show its commitment to experimentation and innovation, and working within spaces where fashion and cutting-edge technology overlap or inform one another.
With this app, developed in collaboration with Atomic Digital Design, Balenciage is looking to continue exploring opportunities with its technology through future content updates and new features to provide you with creative ways of engaging with the brand.
The Balenciaga | Apple Vision Pro app is available for download HERE from the Apple App Store.
It can often be an inconvenience when everyone in the family is fighting to have their turn with the massage chair after a hard day’s work. But, what if there was a way to have more members of the household enjoy a good massage at the same time?
Seemingly understanding the predicament we face, OSIM introduces the uDiva SOFA, their latest innovation that is built to be multi-functional, modular and an ideal addition to today’s modern homes.
The uDiva SOFA features a modular design that allows you to make various configurations such as a 1-seater (S$3,999), 2-seater (S$4,699) or a 3-seater (S$5,699).
Available in an upholstered two-toned woven fabric or brown leatherette, the uDiva SOFA is crafted from premium, wear-resistant materials that are both comfortable and easy to maintain, and is easy to assemble or re-configure.
Designed with ultimate comfort in mind, the uDiva SOFA’s fully flushed seat provides optimal support for the back while the patented retractable foot rest provides built-in foot and vibration massage modes for you to enjoy a complete head-to-toe relaxing experience. When not in massage mode, the leg massager can also be converted into an ottoman.
Powered by OSIM’s V-Hand Massage technology, the sofa incorporates a two-speed vibration massage as well for the body, which mimics the grip of a professional masseuse to help ease deep-seated knots in the neck and shoulders, and relieve stiffness in the back.
In addition to the massage features of the sofa, you can expect to find a removable side table, an integrated control panel, NFC connectivity, and Bluetooth speakers where you can listen to music without ever leaving the sofa.
The uDiva SOFA also integrates seamlessly with OSIM’s Wellness Tech ecosystem for you to customise massage programs based on your body tension scores and your personal preferences.
The OSIM uDiva SOFA is priced from S$3,999 and is available for pre-order at all OSIM outlets. For more information, click HERE.
Apple recently unveiled the redesigned 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro. These machines are now powered by Apple’s incredible M4 chip and have what Apple calls, the world’s most advanced display. The new design is super thin and light, and is Apple’s thinnest product ever. The iPad Pro also supports the new Apple Pencil Pro that has advanced features like squeeze, barrel roll, haptic feedback, hover and double tap.
Above: the new ipad pro is apple’s thinnest apple product ever. the 11-inch model is 5.3mm thin, while the 13-inch is even thinner at 5.1mm. apple also says these are just as strong as the previous design. (photo courtesy apple.)
Starting from $1,499 for the 11-inch Wi-Fi model, the iPad Pro is truly designed for creatives in mind — Artists, Illustrators and Photographers. The powerful M4 chip makes any workflow and rendering faster than ever, while the Ultra Retina XDR display gives the best visual experience on any device. It’s extremely bright, colours are brilliant, and pro users will certainly appreciate these upgrades.
With any new piece of technology, the best way to understand it, is to really try it out for yourself — like when we were sold on the Vision Pro after just one demo. The iPad and Apple Pencil are devices that are of course a lot more familiar to us, but attending an iPad workshop in Bangkok helped us discover how incredible these devices can be for creatives and pro users.
Above: the new ipad pro is available in 13-inch and 11-inch sizes. (photo courtesy apple.)
We spoke with three inspiring local creatives who work and play on the iPad. They share with us their process and what they’ve created on their devices.
André is an Artist and experimental illustrator who graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design. He recently moved back to Singapore from New York City, and you can find him sketching people and places on trains, buses and cafes. When he’s not drawing, he’s retrofitting gameboys, making retro video games, building moving 3D worlds and environments on a laptop or VR/AR headset, or building terrariums.
Above: Portrait of André, shot on iphone 15 PRO MAX.
ON USING THE IPAD
“I currently use the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro for all of my work. The apps I use are: Procreate for all things 2D painting, drawing and even some 3D texture; Procreate Dreams for animation; Nomad Sculpt for 3d sculpting; Resprite for Pixel art and animation; Capcut and LumaFusion for Video editing; Octane for 3D rendering; and finally Lightroom for photo editing.
Above: self-portrait by André for nylon singapore, created on the ipad pro with apple pencil pro.
The first iPad I used was sometime in 2012; I believe it was the 3rd generation iPad and I had just bought it solely because I wanted to get into finger-painting on it with Procreate. The Apple Pencil had yet to be released three years later! So a huge and important difference experienced by me since, is the introduction of the Apple Pencil. And I am having a blast with the Apple Pencil Pro now supporting new features like a haptic feedback and the ability to have the Apple Pencil Pro pick up barrel roll actions, making the experience of painting or drawing on the iPad feel even more natural and robust!” —André
FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE NEW IPAD PRO
“I really love how vibrant and bright the new OLED screen is and how all this hardware that can render my 3D scenes and models is packed into an iPad that is slimmer than an iPod Nano!” —André
Above: illustrations and animations seen on André’s WEBSITE.
USING THE APPLE PENCIL PRO
“The best part of the features of the Apple Pencil Pro is that they’re so intuitive and obvious that you quickly forget that they didn’t exist before the update and redesign. The haptic feedback that is felt whenever you double-tap to initiate a swap between tools is such an underrated but helpful feature that helps indicate when the swap has been made, preventing accidental tool selections. And the barrel roll feature has bridged that gap between a real world mark-making tool and a digital one by introducing a natural way to rotate your brushes and have that rotation be reflected in the stroke that has been made. Prior to this, brushes, unless tweaked, stamped themselves in one constant direction, a quirk of digital art.” —André
Candice is an artist and illustrator who graduated from the National University of Singapore with a BA of Arts (Architecture). She goes by the moniker Puffingmuffin, and her distinctive style of work is cute yet stylish, quirky and joyful — just like her disposition when we first met on our trip to Bangkok.
Above: Candice illustrating on her ipad pro, shot on iphone 15 PRO MAX.
ON USING THE IPAD
“I’m currently using the 13-inch iPad Pro (M4). As a self-employed illustrator, the app I use most for work will be Procreate for drawing, Adobe Illustrator if I need my digital illustrations in vector format, and Notes or Freeform for note taking and ideation.
Above: self-portrait by candice for nylon singapore, created on the ipad pro with apple pencil pro.
My very-first iPad was the first gen iPad Air which I got a decade ago. (I can’t believe it has been 10 years?!) It had a much smaller (9.7”) screen, much larger bezels, and it had a home button.
The current iPad Pro is SO much lighter than the previous iPad Pro. The M4 chip also makes its performance so much faster and I can do so much more on the device.” —Candice
FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE NEW IPAD PRO “I love that it is so thin and light! I work on the go a lot and this makes carrying the iPad around so much more convenient.” —Candice
USING THE APPLE PENCIL PRO
“I’ve been using the squeeze and barrel roll feature most. I like that the squeeze function can be customised with different apps and the barrel roll comes in really handy when I am drawing on Procreate. Barrel roll makes drawing a lot more intuitive and organic. I’ve not had a chance to use Find My on the Apple Pencil Pro. I tend to leave my Apple Pencil lying around a lot so I can see how Find My will definitely come to my rescue one day.” —Candice
Hafi is an illustrator, designer and visual artist with an impressive resume. She graduated from Nanyang Technological University, School of Art, Design & Media with Bachelor of Fine Arts (Hons) in Visual Communication, and was also awarded the Goh Chok Tong Youth Promise Award Scholarship for young talents in the art and design field in 2007.
When asked to describe her work, she says that “I make visual interpretations through drawings that are rooted in ancestral memories, and my works dissect themes of identity and cultural narratives through image making”.
You can check out her illustrations and shop them on her website: Studio Hafi, and follow her on Instagram @hahahafi.
ON USING THE IPAD “I am currently using an iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) for work and it’s a nice upgrade from my first iPad Pro (12.9 inch) (4th Generation), which I got four years ago because I wanted to make illustrating my full time job and streamline my workflow. The early iPad Pro that I had was pretty thick and heavy so it wasn’t fun when I had to carry it around for work. The latest one that I am using is so much thinner and lighter, which amazed me so much. I don’t find it a hassle anymore to carry it around for meetings and lectures.” —Hafi
Above: self-portrait by hafi for nylon singapore, created on the ipad pro with apple pencil pro.
FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE NEW IPAD PRO “I like how seamless it is for me to switch between using the iPad solely for drawing and using it for calls and meetings. I thought it was really smart that the front facing camera is now in landscape as compared to previous models, making it less awkward for me to take video calls on my iPad. The magic keyboard attachment is also great — especially for someone like myself who does not own a laptop. The iPad has replaced my need for a laptop and just having a deskbound iMac and an iPad is good enough for me.” —Hafi
Above: screengrab taken from hafi’s WEBSITE, where she sells prints, publications and customised portraits.
USING THE APPLE PENCIL PRO “I have intuitively used the hover tool a lot when using Procreate and found the Apple Pencil Pro being more precise when I draw as compared to my old 2nd gen Apple Pencil. The barrel roll function is also a game changer for illustrators!” —Hafi
Check out the EDUCATION STORE for back to school offers from june 20 to september 30, 2024. These include 20% off AppleCare on top of discounted education pricing on Mac and iPad — including the all-new iPad Air and new MACBOOK AIR.
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