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Art n’ Absinthe in Fitzroy

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Shrouded in a veil of mystery and myth since its 18th century Swiss origins and often (incorrectly) labeled as a hallucinogenic, Absinthe, la fée verte, the Green Fairy, has long been the popular choice of beverage for artists, writers and bohemians. Much like the spirit itself, Fitzroy’s relatively new Absinthesalon is a little mysterious. Hidden behind a heavy, unassuming wooden door off Fitzroy’s Rose Street, guests are admitted only after they ring a doorbell. Once inside, they are transported down the rabbit hole to a soft, elegant and dreamlike 19th century French salon with close to 40 varieties of the spirit available.

Dark period art adorns the walls inside, the ceiling is accented with a garden of reverse tulips (inspired by Oscar Wilde’s famous quote), and the indoor / outdoor garden area is enclosed by glowing green walls. An Absinthe-lovers dream.

We caught up with Paddy Hutchinson, from Absinthesalon, where we hoped to clear up once and for all, if Absinthe really drove people mad?

How long have you been working in the Absinthesalon?
I’ve been working with the Absinthesalon six months now, basically since we opened the doors. I helped a little with the final stages of decoration, and being able to see its final transformation was pretty special… since then I’ve kind of become part of the decor.

Personal favourite from the current selection?
If pressed for a favourite I usually go for the Jade Terminus; it’s got an elegantly layered palette, a beautiful creamy texture and this underlying spice that reminds me a little of Islay whiskies. Add to that the beautiful bottle art and the fact that its connected to some of the best stories – which given Absinthe’s history is really saying something – means that I enjoy it both as a drink and I suppose, [also] an artifact.

For a first timer, how would you describe the perfect way to enjoy Absinthe?
In truth the full water treatment that we do at the Salon is the best way to drink it; diluting the absinthe in the classic belle epoch manner opens up the flavours that hide under the alcohol otherwise. Most folks like a touch of sugar to take the edge off the bitter wormwood, so I recommend that to most newcomers… though if you find yourself lacking the fountains, spoons and glassware that we have here, I advise you knife a hole in the cap of a water bottle, fill it with ice water and use that to get a nice steady drip into your absinthe glass. You know… in the event you want to do absinthe right with your post-apocalyptic marauder gang.

What is the biggest Absinthe myth you would like to dispel?  
Wow, there are a few… I suppose the one that surprised me was that some people seem to think there’s only one style of Absinthe. Even with the drink being banned for the better part of a century, you’ve got a diversity of flavours that rivals whiskey or rum and a number of radically different regional approaches. I’ve been itching to get hold of some of the new Californian ones actually, I hear there’s some very talented operators out there. We’re in the middle of a worldwide spirit renaissance at the moment, I’m pretty happy to be a part of it.

Why do you think Absinthe has always attracted creative, bohemian types throughout history?
There’s a sense of theatre that goes into traditional Absinthe preparation, and the flickering mist that manifests as part of that ritual would certainly have a draw to imaginative people. I think it’s the ritual itself that is key though; the very act of waiting for the drink to be ready, surrounded by the unusual paraphernalia that entails, create an otherworldly feeling. The whole arrangement is very social too, exactly what you need to get ideas bouncing between creative people.

Finally, is it true you are also a comedian?
I did a bit of comedy in Canberra, yeah… mostly producer-side stuff making sure that shows happened, but I spent my share of time on stage. I don’t think I really knew what I was doing at the time, we all just knew we wanted to do shows, so in the process of basically improvising a production company I learned a great deal. Mostly just doing podcasts now, with some audiobooks and film projects in the offing. Got to keep busy.

It’s also no surprise to learn that the salon is located on Rose Street, which is also home to the famous Rose Street Markets, Fitzroy’s artistic hub, one of whom we were pleased to meet during our time at the venue, and who’s art also adorns the walls of Absinthe salon.

Brettsixtysix’s art, he’s been showcasing his creations at Absinthesalon since they’ve opened their doors, and it’s pretty unique. We asked him as to the best way to describe it..
I call my art Digital Disintegration, it’s the allegorical method of portraying inner growth through personal expression and the deterioration of the former self. My work expresses the universal principles of growth and decay, the fleeting nature of mortality and the impermanence of form in the natural world. This duality is represented by vibrant colors as an expression of life and black static which tears apart the fabric of the image. It is a spontaneous expression of form giving way to entropy.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Self-reflection is my inspiration, my desire to know myself drives me to create and through creation I am better able to perceive who and what I am.

Why have you chosen Absinthesaleon in particular to showcase your work?
I chose the Absinthesalon because of its connection to the 19th century Parisian art scene, the artwork produced in that period gave me great pleasure as a child. I spent countless hours looking at the works produced by the great masters of the time and it felt perfectly right to have my first solo show in the beautifully re-created atmosphere of the Absinthesalon.

Finally, are you an Absinthe drinker?
Yes, I am, I love my absinthe and I’m a regular at Vince and Rebecca’s establishment.
Check out his work on Instagram.

Absinthesalon is the perfect spot for chilling out with the cool kids after a dinner on Brunswick Street, just grab the 86 tram from Bourke Street in the city, and get off at stop number 17. Choose your Absinthe wisely though folks, a three drink maximum applies.. you know… in case you go mad.

Where: 82 Rose Street, Fitzroy
When: Wednesday to Saturday, please check the link below for opening hours.
More information: Check out their website.

Words by Kerstyn Dance

Fiona Tuck, health and wellness expert

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Time to get your spring/summer body back on as the warm days approach. We got a chance to speak with Fiona Tuck, a Nutritional Medicine Practitioner, Skincare Expert, Yoga Teacher and an accredited member of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society, and also for her to teach us a sneaky spring snack that will not destroy that fit-bod of yours. But first, let Fiona tell you a little more about the health industry and herself.

Tell us how you got into the health and wellness industry 25 years ago, Fiona.
I have always had a keen passion for health and wellness and after working in banking for a short while I realised I needed to follow my heart and study health and wellness which included three years full time of nutrition, skincare and spa therapies. I have worked in a variety of roles including hands on therapy, skincare, education, nutritional consults and manufacturing. One of my roles as an International Training Manager included lots of travel and after working in Asia and discovering the medicinal benefits of food I took an inquisitive path of wanting to learn more about food as medicine which then lead me to study nutritional medicine which took another wonder seven years.

What do you enjoy the most when you do public speaking?
I really enjoy connecting with people and being able to help them with any health or nutritional questions they may have. There are so many misconceptions about healthy eating I find many people are confused and are in need of non-biased informative advice without the food fads and marketing ploys.

How would you describe a healthy lifestyle to a kid?
Eating fresh home cooked food can make you happy and keep you full of energy. Get outside move, kick a ball, play with the dog or simply go out and have some fun. Eat a little bit of everything and not too much of any one thing. Most of all be proud and confident of who you are without comparing yourself to anyone else.

What are your top tips on getting back into shape for Spring/Summer?
Watch your portion size, we can easily consume too many calories by piling our plates too high.

Avoid fad diets that involve deprivation which often end up to overeating. Choose fresh, minimally processed foods which are high in nutrients and cut back on the packaged food. Make the majority of your plate vegetables with a small serve of protein, healthy fats and slow release carbs.

Cut back on alcohol by avoiding drinking mid week, and allow yourself a couple of glasses at the weekend.

80% of weight loss is about what we eat so the most important thing to address is diet. Look to eat a little bit of everything so that you do not feel deprived but not too much of any one thing.

We know that you grew up in Stock, England; tell us what made you move to Australia?
I have always had a yearning to come to Australia and the moment I landed in Sydney it felt like home. I love the people, the weather and the positive attitude here.

What would be your top skincare advice for women over 30?
No amount of cosmetics or skincare will make up for a bad diet. What we do or do not eat will directly affect the condition of the skin and how quickly it ages. Where Spf 50 on the face every day to avoid sun-damage but it is not necessary to spend a fortune on skincare. Price is not a good reflection of quality. Go by the results, if the products make a difference on your skin and improves it, keep using it!

If you could describe yourself under 5 words, what would it be?
Gentle, honest, loyal, focused and underestimated

Lastly, what can we expect from your book – The Forensic Nutritionist?
This is not your average green smoothie or mummy blogger wellness book. The Forensic Nutritionist helps you to investigate your own nutritional deficiencies, detect early health warning signs and know what your body really needs to stay strong, happy and healthy. The answers to good nutrition and health are not as straightforward as taking a health supplement or following the latest superfood trend. Have you ever wondered why you crave certain foods, get red bumps on the back of your arms or have lines or breakouts on certain areas of your face or body? Your body has its own language of communication and has ways of telling you what it really needs. If you want to dispel the health myths and get the real deal on healthy eating, The Forensic Nutritionist is for you. Available from fionatuck.com. online bookstores and leading bookstores Aug 2017.

Get your hands on her cauliflower pizza recipe here!

Fish… not just another 4-letter word

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We were lucky enough to be invited along to check out Fish, on it’s sold out opening night at the popular Melba Spiegeltent in Collingwood, and despite what the name may imply, this latest piece from the team at the Rollercoaster Theatre Company actually had little to do with, well… fish.

Instead the theme focused on another four-letter word – fear. Not the kind of ‘clown under the bed’, ‘monsters in the closet fear’, – the real, everyday, average person fears. Things like spiders, car horns, terrorists, overzealous romantic pursuits from management, getting sick again… etc.

All of these topics were tackled by the talented cast in a slightly quirky, off beat performance which was a mix of sketch, song and dance – and included a hilarious yet humanising parody of Donald Trump.

All in all, the show was quite magical, with lots of laughs despite the heavy content covered. A little political, a little wonderful – and real shame it wraps up after only 3 nights.

A little about Rollercoaster Theatre Company

Rollercoaster is made up of a group of trained, experienced Melburnian actors who have a broad range of disabilities. Born from the realisation that there were not enough opportunities for actors with disabilities in Melbourne – the not-for-profit group formed with team collaboration in mind, and have been delivering high quality performance pieces ever since.

Where: Melba Spiegletent –  35 Johnston Street, Collingwood
When: 31 August – 2 September
More information: Check out there website.

 

Nocturnal 2017 T&Cs

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PRIVACY: We are committed to the privacy of your information. We do not, and will not, distribute, disclose or sell any of your personal information to third parties, other than as required by law or as necessary to process a payment.
By entering the contest, you agree to release the Competition Entities, Instagram and Facebook and Twitter from all responsibility or liability for damages, losses or injuries of any kind resulting from participation in the Competition or any prize-related activities, if any, or any awarding, possession, use and/or misuse of prize(s), if any, awarded herein. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. You are providing your information to ErdiGroup Hotel Collection and not to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.

 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The Promoter is ErdiGroup Hotel Collection (ABN 58 328 593 784 & 50 693 006 965)  of 195 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000.

Information on how to enter and prizes forms part of the terms of entry. Entry into the competition is deemed acceptance of these terms and conditions.

WHO CAN ENTER
This contest is open to all current or new subscribers to the We Know Melbourne Marketing Database (and any affiliates marketing databases) who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry and live in Victoria.

Employees of ErdiGroup Hotel Collection (the Sponsor) its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising, promotion and internet agencies and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of each are not eligible. Immediate family includes the following: spouse, ex-spouse, defacto spouse, child or step child (whether natural or by adoption), parent, step parent, grandparent, step grandparent, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew, brother, sister, step brother, step sister or first cousin. Void where prohibited by law.

All federal, state, and local laws and regulations apply to this competition. If you cannot or will not comply with these Official Rules, you should not participate in the competition.

By entering this competition, you agree to be bound by these Official Rules and to waive any right to claim any ambiguity or error in these Official Rules or the competitions itself. You also agree to be bound by all decisions of the Sponsor or its designees, whose decisions are final and binding.

Entrants must be 18 years of age or older as at the date of entry in order to be eligible to enter the competition.

Entrants under 18 years of age must obtain the prior permission of their parent or legal guardian in order to be able to enter. If the competition winner is under 18 years of age, the prize will be awarded to the winner’s parent or legal guardian.

The Promoter reserves the right to request winners to provide proof of identity, proof of residency at the nominated prize delivery address and/or proof of entry validity in order to claim a prize. Proof of identification, residency and entry considered suitable for verification is at the discretion of the Promoter. In the event that a winner cannot provide suitable proof, the winner will forfeit the prize in whole and no substitute will be offered.

HOW TO ENTER
Beginning 1 September 2017 at 12.01am EST follow the instructions to enter the competition by either;
Becoming a new subscriber to receive We Know Melbourne (Erdigroup) electronic mail marketing communication; and
Tell us in 25 words or less on what is the best part about Spring.

WHEN TO ENTER
The competition commences on 1 September 2017 at 12.01am EST and concludes on 28 September 2017 at 12.01am EST. Entries must be received by the Promoter prior to the competition close date and time.

The time of entry will in each case be the time the online entry is received by the Promoter’s database, not at the time of transmission by the entrant.

The Promoter accepts no responsibility for any late, lost or misdirected entries not received by the Promoter or delays in the delivery of the SMS message due to technical disruptions, network congestion or for any other reason.

Entrants may enter as many times as they like, but only one prize will be awarded per person.

PRIZE ON OFFER
Winner will receive 1 x double pass to Nocturnal at Melbourne Museum (valued at $70). The prize will be mailed to the winners.

Prizes cannot be transferred, exchanged or redeemed for cash.

It is a condition of accepting the prize that the winner must comply with all the conditions of use of the prize and the prize supplier’s requirements. It is the responsibility of the winner to confirm such conditions with the prize supplier or other relevant third parties.

In the event a winner does not collect the prize, then the entire prize will be forfeited by the winner and cash will not be awarded in lieu of the prize.

Winners or any travel companions under 18 years of age must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian at all times.

Note that the redemption of the prize is subject to availability.

Acceptance of a prize constitutes permission for Sponsor to use winner’s name, photos and likeness for advertising and promotional purposes without additional compensation unless prohibited by law.

No substitution or transfer of prize by winner permitted, except that Sponsor reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value in the event that the advertised prize is unavailable. All applicable income taxes are the sole responsibility of winner.

By entering, entrants and their respective parents or legal guardians release, discharge and hold harmless Sponsor, its subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, officers, employees, and agents from any and all liability or any injuries, loss, or damage of any kind arising from or in connection with this competition or any prize won

DRAW AND NOTIFICATION OF WINNER
The prize winners will be the selected in accordance with these terms and conditions that is drawn by a representative of the hotel at 195 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Victoria to be selected at random at 9am, on 28 September 2017.

The Promoter’s decision is final and the Promoter will not enter into correspondence regarding the competition result or any other decisions the Promoter makes in connection with the Promotion.

The winner will be notified by telephone or email immediately. The winner may also be announced via the official @WeKnowMelbourne Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook accounts

No purchase necessary. Buying will not help you win. Your chances of winning without making a purchase are the same as the chances of someone who purchases something. It is illegal to give any advantage to buyers in this competition.

Return of any prize notification as undeliverable may result in disqualification and selection of an alternate winner.

FURTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Any attempt by an individual to deliberately damage any website or undermine the legitimate operation of this promotion is a violation of criminal and civil laws, and should such an attempt be made, sponsor reserves the right to seek damages from any such individual to the fullest extent permitted by law. Promoter is not responsible for faulty, incorrect or mis-transcribed phone/e-mail transmissions, incorrect announcements of any kind, technical hardware or software failures of any kind including any injury or damage to any person’s computer related to or resulting from participating in or experiencing any materials in connection with the promotion, lost or unavailable network connections, or failed, incomplete, garbled or delayed computer transmission that may limit a user’s ability to participate in the promotion.

Promoter reserves the right to cancel or modify the promotion if fraud, misconduct or technical failures destroy the integrity of the program; or if a computer virus, bug, or other technical problem corrupts the administration or security of the program as determined by Sponsor/judging agency/administrator, in their sole discretion. In the event of termination, a notice will be posted online and the competition will be conducted from among all eligible entries received prior to termination. Any damage made to the Site will be the responsibility of the authorised e-mail account holder of the e-mail address submitted at the time of entry.

Proof of submitting entries will not be deemed to be proof of receipt by Promoter. Any entries which are suspected of being fraudulent (including those using robotic, automatic, programmed or similar methods of participation) will be disqualified, based on determinations made solely by Promoter. Promoter reserves the right to prohibit the participation of an individual if fraud or tampering is suspected or if the account holder fails to comply with any requirement of participation as stated herein or with any provision in these Official Rules.

All entries become the property of The Promoter. All opt-in entries will be entered into a database and The Promoter may use the entrant’s names, addresses and telephone numbers for future promotional, marketing and publicity purposes in any media worldwide without notice and without any fee being paid unless otherwise advised by the entrant. By opting-in, entrants confirm that they allow their details to be used for this purpose. If entrants no longer consent to their details being used for future marketing purposes, the entrant should contact The Promoter. Any request to update, modify or delete the entrant’s details should be directed to The Promoter.

The Promoter’s privacy policy can be viewed at http://www. http://www.erdigroup.com.au/page/Privacy_Policy/. To request access to, or to update, personal information the Promoter holds about them, entrants can contact the Erdigroup Privacy Officer at 195 Swanston St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 on (03) 8662 1301.

Interview with the Danish artist – Tine Bech

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Light / Play is the first installation in the new QV Laneway Series: a seasonal program of ongoing interactive outdoor events, festivals and activations in the QV Square and surrounding laneways. The celebration of light and play heralds the end of winter, with events and installations until Sunday 10 September 2017. We were given the chance to meet Tine Bech, the artist behind the program and got to know her a little bit better.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?
I am an artist and researcher. I am Danish, but I now live and work in London. I create interactive and playable projects where the human experiences are at the centre. Despite living in an age which seems to offer unlimited forms of media communication, we still fundamentally crave a human connection, to find expression in a community and in dialogue. I am interested in how this can be achieved through play, through the creation of a particular environment, and by recognising and exploring the ways that technology has informed our social behaviours.

I see myself as an artist and designer foremost – I love the process of making and seeing a vision come together. The moment when I give the project or artwork over to the audience and they take over is magic. But I am also a researcher in that I like learning and finding out about the bigger thinking behind our culture – play theory for example. That’s why I did a PhD.

We know you have exhibitions around the world – where are you planning to have your next exhibition and what can you tell us about it?
I am really looking forward to my next project ‘We Believe’ in November this year. The We Believe project is an interactive installation that spans two cities – Aarhus in Denmark and London England – as part of the European Capital of Culture Aarhus 2017.

We Believe examines the themes of democracy and citizen participation, exploring how art can create dialogue and stimulate new connections – between people, between cities and between nations. What is really unique is that it takes place in my hometown, Aarhus in Denmark, and in the city which I now live in London, England

The project is an interactive light installation that takes place in multiple sites. The installation is controlled entirely by its audience and illuminates Aarhus City Hall Tower in Aarhus Denmark and the Danish Embassy in London England from a control room. Using the aesthetics and theatre of the control room we will create an interactive ‘playable’ room on the rooftop of Aarhus’s Karolinegaarden. From here, participants will control individual light sections placed on to both buildings, using a series of interactive devices (turn dials, press buttons and more), thereby creating a 3D playable structure whereby the two buildings are involved in a symbolic conversation as the audiences interact. The more people that play, the more alive the buildings become.

Webcams will be placed around Aarhus City Hall and the Danish Embassy, thereby enabling participants and audiences to follow the interaction on screens in the control room and online. Aarhus City Tower is also visible from the terrace where the control room is located. In England, players will join in via a pop-up control console which will appear at events.

In summary, We Believe connects two cities through interactive art, light and participation, and perfectly encapsulates European collaboration and cultural exchange. The buildings are power structures, namely Aarhus City Council and Denmark’s diplomatic mission in England. The conceptual creation and aesthetics of the control room are essential to the project, exemplifying its theme of democracy and citizen creative participation, and the audience’s interactions are, therefore, at the heart of the project.

You have over 20 exhibitions so far: Which one has been a stand out for you and why?
That is almost an impossible question to answer – I love my job and am lucky to have had many great opportunities to exhibit my work. If I was to choose it would have to been any one of the public art projects where I create a project bespoke to a place, the bridge in Reykjavik Iceland was so beautiful, the river in Recife Brazil or the QV Melbourne Square where I was inspired by the site itself to create something that was full of colour, geometric shapes and used artificial grass as runways – hinting to Melbourne’s amazing fashion and architecture.

What is your top favourite art exhibition or show you have been to and where?
I have seen so many great shows but the ones that stand out are interactive exhibitions – one in particular was the Victoria and Albert Museum’s exhibition ‘Decode’ in 2010.

Recently I went to ACMI to see some of the interactive elements they have on show in their standard exhibition. I also went to the NGV and loved seeing the Bill Henderson room – his use of light in his photographs is just beautiful.

Balance that with the special exhibition at Tate Britain of David Hockney, then we have it all: Colour, light and interactive play.

What advice would you give for those who are looking to become an artist themselves?
Never give up! Keep working – fight for what you love. Keep a physical space where you can be creative and nurture that fragile, creative side of yourself.

If you could describe yourself under five words, what would it be?
Five words!! Quirky, positive, warm, playful, techy. Extending on this a little, I see the positive and am curious but I also like to find out the deeper meaning and thinking behind things.

Being in Melbourne for the Light Play exhibition at QV Square, what have you enjoyed about the city the most thus far?
I have really enjoyed meeting and working with the people – everyone has been so friendly and kind, plus they have been extremely helpful! Beyond the people I would also say I’ve enjoyed the multi-cultural vibe, there is so much diversity here and can be seen in many different facets. I also love the architecture, it so different from area to area.

Lastly, tell us what a fun day out with Tine would be like.
A fun day out with me is about being with people. I love interacting with others, it creates the opportunity to feel playful and from there you can just see what happens. If the day involves good food that’s even better, and coffee …and sweets – I definitely have a sweet tooth.

 

Discover more about Light Play here.

WIN: Nocturnal at Melbourne Museum

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End your week the right way and kick off at Nocturnal, the indoor dance floor.

Melbourne Museum’s massive indoor festival Nocturnal is a new adults-only event series held on the first Friday of every month. Shake off Winter and welcome Spring as it returns with the latest live and electronic music, expert talks, roving entertainment and collection curiosities.  This month featuring local electronic artists Kllo, Planéte and a live DJ set by Pjenné; there’ll be nail and whisky bars, mulled wine, curators talking fashion, birds and butterflies and special access to Weta Workshop’s Bug Lab Little Bugs: Super Powers for just $10 with your Nocturnal ticket.

Just check out the photos, it says it all.

We are happy to announce that you have a chance to win a double pass on us to the October session on 6th of October.  We have two double passes to give away and all you have to do is enter via below and get excited!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

Competition closes on 28th of September 2017 at 12.01am EST.
Terms & Conditions here.

Where: Melbourne Museum
When: First Friday of every month, 6pm–11pm.
More information: Check out their website
Tickets on sales here.

A Melbourne Guide to Father’s Day gifts

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Macaroni art and a pair of socks can only get you through so many Father’s Day. If dad deserves more than a last minute stress shop, we’ve got a few options for what to buy, and where.

A present for the Gent – Roberts & Hassett Bespoke Shoes and Leather Goods

If you’re cursed with a father who actually has incredible taste, take a sharp left on Little Bourke street into Somerset Place, and discover Captains of Industry. Here you’ll find the studio of Roberts & Hassett, a shoemaker dedicated to truly bespoke footwear crafted for the man who really has everything. If pulling papa in for a tailored shoe isn’t on the cards, peruse R&H’s other fine leather goods, from handmade bags to wallets made exclusively from Australia Kangaroo leather. Peruse is the key word here – Captain’s of Industry is also a café/bar and barber, so you’ll have plenty of time to pick the perfect gift while you sip a long black, or sit back for a shave and gentlemanly haircut.

Where: 2 Somerset Place, Melbourne
Details: www.roberts-hassett.com.au

PigeonHole

I’m genuinely lost – Pigeonhole homewares etc.

When I asked manager Lisa what category Pigeonhole falls under for retail, she shrugged and grinned “We have seven categories. It’s everything. If people say ‘Do you have…?’ I just say Yes and we go from there”. Pigeonholes ethos is to “champion the beautiful things that bring joy to your life” and they do this brilliantly. There’s clearly method to madness here, as stunning layouts encompass homewares beside toys, novelties next to skincare, all embraced by the cuddle of men and womens wear that lines the walls. Catching our eye this Father-focused season was a range of stylish decanters, The Mason Shaker cocktail kit, and a salt glaze stoneware beer stein with a pretzel motif (stoneware keeps your cold drinks cold – important beer information).

Where: Level 3, Emporium Melbourne
Details: www.pigeonhole.com.au

Monster Threads

Make it fun and weird – Monster Threads

Monster threads is so much more than quirky t shirts – it’s now quirky everything. This Sydney brand graces us with boutiques full of gorgeous giftware, as Monster Threads brings together a bevvy of like minded brands in their candy-store like interiors. We love the Secrid brand wallets which protect cards from skimmers (and allow for a very cool-dad pop up card moment when you activate the lever on the bottom), and the buff n shine shoe polish set. If you’ve followed our guide by order and now have an armful of stuff, make Monster Threads at the very least your go-to for the perfect card – Then buy yourself something cool for all your hard work, like these rabbit mugs.

Where: QV, Londsdale Street
Details: http://www.monsterthreads.com.au

 

Words by Lee Douglas. Imagery by Ting Chen.

Light Play at QV by Tine Bech

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QV Melbourne is thrilled to announce the QV Laneway Series: a seasonal program of ongoing interactive outdoor events, festivals and activations in the QV Square and surrounding laneways.

To launch the series, QV has commissioned globally acclaimed Danish artist Tine Bech to complete her first Australian work, which will be the centrepiece of a new interactive program of events called Light / Play. The celebration of light and play will herald the end of winter from Friday 25 August – Sunday 10 September.

With a PhD in ‘Play’, Tine Bech is a multidisciplinary artist who creates innovative interactive art that encourages participation and most of all, play. Her work has been exhibited in public spaces, galleries and at major festivals, transforming urban landmarks in cities around the world. Some of Tine’s previous work includes interactive artworks at London Bridge Live Art Festival, Denmark’s On the Edge Digital Art Festival, Israel Museum, Los Angeles’ SIGGRAPH Art Gallery and a ‘playable city’ on water in Recife, Brazil.

Tine’s new work, entitled Colour Me Beautiful, will create a playful new environment for social interaction, experienced for the very first time at QV Melbourne. Tine Bech will visit Melbourne to premiere the new artwork, and will engage with Melbourne audiences as they interact and respond to her work.

“I don’t define play as being only for children. Our own evolution and survival as a species shows the centrality of play. We learn how to deal with risk through play – through exploration, testing, and thereby learning and adapting. I believe that play is integral to culture; it is part of our social fabric and lies at the core of social bonds,” says Tine.

Featuring five colourful runways leading to a vivid landscape of images, Colour Me Beautiful invites the public to play and perform. The interactive installation will capture images of audience members on each runway; live posting them onto a 5.8 metre by 3.2 metre multicolour screen. The work invites Melburnians and visitors alike to walk the coloured grass runway, strike a pose and be captured in a bright maze of colour. Participants in the work will each receive a link to their images to share their experience with others. Tine’s intention for Colour Me Beautiful is to exemplify and extend the play inherent in human connection through social sharing.

Transforming both the environment and human behaviour through the creative possibilities of play making,Colour Me Beautiful will transform the open air QV Square into an interactive digital art playground.

Tine Bech’s artistic vision is to explore how culture, technology and play intersect to shape the future of our cities.

“I believe cities need creative collaborative spaces, in unexpected places, that inspire participation and communication. What we are doing at QV Melbourne is exactly that,” says Tine.

Light / Play will also feature a range of Melbourne art and culture happenings in a new converted shipping container in the QV Square, and throughout QV’s laneways.

“We are excited to launch our new Laneway Series in Melbourne. The eclectic program of events will provide diverse opportunities for play, thought provoking activities, surprising visual treats and exciting entertainment for city visitors and residents,” says Lisa Fleming, QV Melbourne’s Regional Centre Manager.

Worlds apart from other retail precincts in Melbourne, QV represents the quintessential Melbourne lifestyle. Intimate laneways in the urban precinct give visitors the freedom to wander and discover the eclectic mix of shops, cafes and restaurants at their own pace. Located on the corner of Lonsdale and Swanston Streets, QV has something for everyone with boutiques, enlightening entertainment and cosmopolitan bars and restaurants.

 

 

Image of QV Artemis Lane and surrounding graffiti artwork. Photograph by Chris Hopkins

We were given the chance to meet Tine Bech, the artist behind the program and got to know her a little bit better. Read our interview with her here. 

What: Light Play: an end of winter program of interactive events at QV Melbourne. Escape the last cold days of winter with an innovative and playful celebration of light and play – where colour, art, performance, music and food come together. FREE.
Where: QV Square, Level 2, QV Melbourne, corner Swanston and Lonsdale Streets, Melbourne
When: 25 August to 10 September, 2017

Interview – Daragh Kan

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Hightail bar, the new go to spot for an after work drinks, catch up with old mates or maybe just for a casual lunch. The décor of the bar is so elegant, yet quirky. The drinks are delicious and the food is unbeatable. Everything you need and want in one place, all you need to do is bring along your friends and have 100 Orders app ready to go. Let Daragh Kan, one of the owners of Hightail Bar tell you a little bit more about the venue and himself.

Tell us Daragh, what was your team’s main inspiration behind this extravagant Hightail Bar and what makes it different?
We wanted to create an escape for people in the surrounding areas and that’s where the concept of building a watering hole came from. With so many office workers in the area, having a bit of an oasis for them to take a break from work seemed like a smart idea.

For Hightail Bar first timers, what is the best way to experience it?
With a group of friends and an empty stomach. Head down, grab a table and then download our app 100 Orders. The app lets you order and pay for all your drinks and food from Mr Burger, Belles Hot Chicken and Super Taco and get it delivered straight to your table.

We know Melbourne is an amazing city, but what made you choose Melbourne to open up Hightail Bar?
Melbourne’s my home town and it’s where our business is based, so it makes sense for us to open venues here. We’re currently looking at some venues interstate, but Melbourne will always be home base for us.

What is your next adventure after Hightail Bar?
We’ve got a couple of new venues we’re working on at the moment, but right now our focus is on getting Hightail up and running.

Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Ireland and moved to Australia when I was 4. My first job was as a lounge boy at a pub in Ireland when I was 13, so I’ve been around hospitality all my life. When I finished school I started a few different degrees before completing a Bachelor of Business Entrepreneurship. I was working in bars and events and opened a club when I was still studying. We founded Mr Burger in 2012 and the group now includes Belles Hot Chicken, Welcome To Thornbury, Super Taco and others.

As a successful entrepreneur like yourself, what would be your top tips for those who are wanting to start up a business?
Don’t be worried about what you don’t know. You’ll learn it along the way. The best thing to do if you want to start a business is to start it. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes or changing course.

Let’s get a little fun here, if you could be anywhere right now where would it be and why?
Probably Japan. It’s one of my favourite countries to visit for so many reasons. The people, culture, food, architecture. I could go on, but if you haven’t been, I’d highly recommend it.

What is your favourite place in Melbourne during Spring?
The CBD. I live in the CBD and it’s my favourite place any time of year. People start coming out of their shells after winter and there’s a real sense of excitement around town. I think a lot of people don’t consider the CBD as a place they would like to live, but for me I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you could describe yourself under 5 words, what would it be?
Normal guy doing cool stuff

Lastly, tell us the five things in life you can’t live without.
Wifi, Uber, iPhone, Friends and Sparkling Mineral Water

 

Mr Burger 12 08 2016
Interiors at Hightail bar and restaruant.
Interiors at Hightail bar and restaruant.
Interiors at Hightail bar and restaruant.
Interiors at Hightail bar and restaruant.
Interiors at Hightail bar and restaruant.
Interiors at Hightail bar and restaruant.

Where: Collins Square
When: Monday to Friday, please check their website for opening hours.
More information: Check out their website

Shabu-Shabu your chilly Melbourne days away at Tetsujin

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Dear vego friends, we have found the shabu shabu heaven for you. Shabu shabu is a Japanese hotpot dish where you cook all raw ingredients in a broth. The name shabu shabu comes from the Japanese sound and action of the thinly sliced meat being swished with chopsticks in the hotpot. With no surprise by the origin of the name, traditionally you would have thinly sliced meat (typically beef), seafood and veggies prepared for your hotpot.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At Tetsujin, they understand how delicious shabu shabu is and so they cater for their vegetarian friends in Melbourne! There are more than 20 different vegetarian ingredients (45 ingredients in total for the meat eaters) you can add to your broth and make your ultimate shabu shabu!

Step 1 – choose the vegetable stock. Step 2 – choose your veggies from the menu. Step 3 – taste the stock before you put the ingredients in (it will not disappoint). Step 4 – time to shabu shabu. Step 5 – dip the cooked food in one of the three sauces they provide (sesame paste, soy sauce and ponzu sauce – a citrus-based sauce mixed with soy sauce). Step 6 – ENJOY YOUR NIGHT AWAY!

Our favourites of Tetsujin’s vegetarian ingredients are – bean curd skin, udon noodles, konjac noodles, all the mushrooms (including shitake, enoki, oyster mushroom and more), Chinese cabbage and the vegetarian gyozas.

Shabu shabu, the perfect way to catch up with a group of friends; as traditionally it is designed for sharing! Get your vegetarian friends together, try all the vegetarian dishes they offer and swish your way to hotpot heaven.

 

Where: 4th Floor of Emporium (Entry via Caledonia Lane)
When: Monday – Saturday. Please check the website for opening hours.
More information: Check out their website