Eight Magazine

Eight is a fashion orientated magazine with the sole purpose of highlighting up-and-coming creative artists.

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Eight ways to survive 2016

Robots

The robots are here, and they're better at our jobs than we are. "Yeah, yeah," I hear you say, "robots might replace Starbucks staff, but they will never do a better job than the hipster barista from the local artisan coffee shop." Wrong. Robots are about to take the steering wheel. Literally. But what about human creativity? Surely no artificial intelligence could ever come up with evergreens like "Work, Work, Work" or literary classics like 50 Shades of Grey? Wrong again. Time to invest in some Real Steel, people. 

How to survive: Get your Mech suits on, it's about to get real. We have a Pacific Rimjob on our hands.

Humans Need Not Apply: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Pq-S557XQU

Self-driving cars: https://www.google.com/selfdrivingcar/

Climate Change

Get a boat, it's about to get wet. If you have access to lots of plywood, play it safe by building an ark. But learn from Noah's mistakes: be selective about any animal companions you bring along. Elephants are useful for memorising things. Penguins are great for formal dress parties. Platypi are just hilarious. If the animals can swim or fly, leave them behind. Particularly the mosquitos. Who wants them anyway? They don't make honey and they suck. Literally. Although most of the ice caps will have melted away in this Brave New Waterworld, there will still be a couple left with rogue polar bears floating around on them. 

How to survive: Don't be fooled by the cute eyes and cuddly fur; they will eat you and steal your boat.

Climate change: http://climate.nasa.gov

Geoengineering: http://www.intellectualventures.com/news/press-releases/intellectual-ventures-answers-about-geoengineering/

Immigration

Affectionately described by former Prime Minister (and occasional pig charmer) David Cameron as 'swarms', immigrants are everywhere these days. And why wouldn't they be? I'm an immigrant, and you're most likely an immigrant too. Unless you're still in the same spot you were born in, guess what? You're from somewhere else. Immigration seems to be a buzz word in 2016, and in the multicultural city of London many people fear that they will be exposed to foreign elements like pizzas, Pokemon, piñatas, and other incredibly offensive things. 

How to survive: Go back to where you came from. But ask for your mother's permission first. You might not be welcome there anymore.

UK immigration: https://fullfact.org/immigration/eu-migration-and-uk/

Migrant crisis: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-34131911

Surveillance

I'm online, you're online, and now your mankini is about to be online too. Your house guilt trips you about energy usage, your fridge spies on your nightly sleep-eating and, just as you were about to dive back into a wet dream of your choice, your alarm clock tells you it's time to get up and be a person again. It seems like the Internet is everywhere… except for London's Tube trains. This is particularly exciting for marketing agencies who now not only know what your favourite dish is, but also what it makes your poop look like. It's even gone as far as smart clothes that can detect your mood. 

How to survive: Strip naked and run into the woods, where there is no one but you… and the NSA.

Smart clothing: http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/04/tech/innovation/this-new-tech-can-detect-your-mood/

Internet of Things: http://www.techradar.com/news/internet/10-ways-the-internet-of-things-could-change-the-world-in-2016-1310631

The Economy

Sell, sell, sell, before it all crashes again. No matter the colour of their ties, politicians just can't stop talking about "The Economy", and how it's all going to Hell in a handbasket because of what politicians with different colour ties say and do. The red ties say we need to spend more, the blue ties say we need to spend less, the yellow ties say we should do both (or neither), and the green ties say we need to stop killing baby trees to make paper leaflets with the Queen on them. Someone is clearly wrong… could it be everyone? 

How to survive: Invest in Bitcoin. You can spend them in pubs, which is all that really matters.

Positive money: http://positivemoney.org/videos/

Bitcoin: https://bitcoin.org/en/

Terrorism

Terror attacks are looming from the far-Right, the far-Left, the up-tight and the backwards. Anyone who doesn't look like you, or hasn't caught as many Pokemon as you, is probably out to kill you for political reasons. It's difficult to prepare for terror attacks, as you never know which weapons will be used next. Will it be Hyper Beam? Hydro Cannon? Stealth Rock? Shell Smash? 

How to survive: Delete your Pokemon GO app. Seriously. Also, in case of an actual terror attack, make sure you've deleted your porn browsing history. Mother would be so disappointed (and Father might get inspired).

Terror attacks 2016: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_terrorist_incidents,_2016

Pokemon battle simulator: http://pokemonshowdown.com

Apocalypse Predictions

Like every other year before this, 2016 has been predicted by many self-styled prophets to be the year of the apocalypse. Except this time, it's for real. Asteroids will hit Earth and cause earthquakes, cows will produce nothing but milkshakes, and Jesus Christ himself is predicted to make an appearance as well (promises, promises). It's almost as if someone is making a lot of money from books and documentaries. But it's real! Fortunately, there are as many tips for surviving the extinction of humankind as there are misfortune-tellers preaching it. 

How to survive: Stock up on tin foil and make hats for you and your friends. Might as well go out in style.

How to survive the apocalypse: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/mar/14/rebuild-world-after-apocalypse-lewis-dartnell

New Nostradamus: http://www.express.co.uk/news/weird/621486/New-Nostradamus-Prophet-claims-WWIII-start-JUNE-six-months-after-Europe-closes-borders

Stay Positive

It's a crazy world, eh? Don't worry, it'll all be over soon. Donald Trump will be elected US president before capitulating to China, nationalist parties will take over Europe before being invaded by Russia, and the UN will appeal to Bono in the hopes that his angelic voice will save the world once again. But it won't, because everyone hates U2 since their forceful invasion of iTunes. It's at time like these we must look to the science of positive psychology for answers. 

How to survive: Lower your expectations. It's not going to get any better than this. Unless you win the lottery (Spoiler: You won't).

Positive Psychology: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/ambigamy/201408/the-secret-happiness-and-compassion-low-expectations

The key to happiness: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/lifestyle/11013715/The-key-to-happiness-have-low-expectations.html

Article by Frederik Nielsen

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Insta-View: Lotta Liina

With model looks and a quirky sense of style, Lotta Lina is definitely one to watch when it comes to up and coming social media stars. She is not afraid to push the boundaries, and her Instagram makes for a fun look into her world of art, style and travel. Her body confidence is an inspiration to all, and you get the feeling she couldn’t care less what haters would say! I got the chance to step inside Lotta’s world, and find out what makes her tick.

For those of our readers who haven’t yet discovered you, can you tell us a little bit about yourself.

I basically am a fashion blogger, even though I hate identifying myself as that because of the negative connotation. However I am currently changing it up to shift my focus from what I do and what I like, to the fashion industry because it’s much more interesting. 

So if you want to read about issues in the industry (especially sustainability) and find new quirky, to die for brands who really have that je ne sais quoi I’ll be covering it.

What originally enticed you into blogging? Have you always been passionate about fashion?

I started off using Tumblr, because I loved having a collection of photos that I loved in one place (mainly photos of fashion, architecture etc.) and eventually it wasn’t enough. I wanted to start creating my own content… however I feel very strongly I am still fine tuning it all as I am never really satisfied with what my out come is. But I love having an outlet where I can try things out. Clothing and personal style have always been on my mind, however I didn’t really start to follow fashion until 2014.

Who are your biggest inspirations?

For me honestly there is always the one and only: Leandra Medine of the Man Repeller. There is no one more personally stylish, more open and funny commenting on the industry than her.

What’s the best part about your blogging. Is there a particular aspect you enjoy the most? Apart from having a platform to voice my opinion and being a creative outlet I love the social aspect. It’s been a great way meeting new people who share in the same interests around the world.

You seem to really ‘speak’ through your blog - you have such a witty, entertaining way of writing. Have you always enjoyed writing? Has blogging made you more open to write about your feelings (following on from your 22 post).

I never really enjoyed writing to be honest, however I have kept a meticulous collection of diaries since the age of 8, so for me blogging is just a continuation of those books. I think slowly I’ve started to become a bit more open with writing, especially because I am tired of the generic ‘I put this (insert clothing item A here) with this (insert clothing item B here) because I (add adjective here) the way it (add verb here)’ which usually is all just fluff. However I think I still am holding back a lot because I know my parents read it and so I put a cap on a lot of topics I’m actually itching to talk about.

It’s clear to see you have a true love for fashion, can you give us your top styling tip for 2016.

Layers. If there is one thing I have learnt from Copenhagen is always dress in layers.

You seem to travel a lot. Where’s your favourite place? A place you really feel at home?

Funnily enough I feel like I only really ever travel to see family or friends, and I really hate travelling. I have the worst travel anxiety… so planning spontaneous trips is hella scary. Honestly I always feel most at home where my closet is at the time.. :D

Who is you biggest celeb style inspiration? It’s hard to say.. most of them have stylists so I never really think of actual celebrities as having a sense of style. I mean it’s not a part of their job description most likely. But I guess Grace Coddington or Anna Dello Russo because they do a lot of weird crazy things with high risks.

Do you have any advice of how to get into blogging? The best way to do it, is to find something you are sincerely passionate about, fine tune your work into that field and work really hard on establishing your ‘brand’ aesthetics.

Where do you want to be in 5 years? Still blogging? Working in fashion? Hopefully done with my masters degree and finding something I want to work at and do. I guess a job in fashion as long as it includes moving around a lot. I may loathe travelling, but I hate staying still even more.

Interested in the world of Lotta Liina? Visit her website and check out her Instagram.

Article by Lauren Çokgüler

Photos by Kip Photography

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Mikko Lagerstedt’s mesmerising images of Iceland and Finland’s landscape.

Mikko Lagerstedt’s latest images captures the beauty of Iceland and Finland’s landscapes through carefully stitched exposures of the cold night sky. The photos below are just a handful from landscapes he shot last year. 

Experience the calm, and peaceful night skies from two extraordinary Nordic countries.

To find more of Mikko’s work visit his website, or his Instagram.

Article by Kit To

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DISCOVER #2: ANNA (@ASOS_ANNA)

@ASOS_Anna, the Friends obsessed ASOS Junior Editor is someone you should definitely be following. 

Anna’s obsession with the sitcom Friends, and all things 90s is clearly reflected in her incredibly playful and fun outfits. Her Instagram features an extensive denim collection, and lots of quirky tops.

Follow Anna on Instagram! 

Article by Kit To

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DISCOVER #1: Naomi (@rossio_style)

The first in our summer video portrait series is Naomi Ross, or more widely known as on Instagram - @rossiostyle.

Since starting her Instagram account this year, she takes her 10K followers to The French Alps, Spain, Ibiza and many more places! Her style is effortless versatile, ranging from mono, boho, vintage. Be assured, her photos always have a dash of colour and oozes fun!

Make sure to follow Naomi on Instagram, Twitter, and on Snapchat: @Rossio_Style.

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People You Should Be Following #5: Victor of Valencia

            Kenosha Fall

Luke Gottlieb, (or known as @victorofvalencia on Instagram) is a photographer based in Denver Rock City. The Colorado Mountain native has shot for brands like Free People. Gottleib’s stunning portraits, and enchanting landscapes of the American wild has captured the attention of over 29,000 people on Instagram. Eight had the pleasure of speaking with him...

Tell us a little bit about yourself, where are you from? How did you get into photography?

“I was born and raised in the mountain town of Carbondale, Colorado. There are a few brief moments in my life where I have lived out of the state, but I have made Colorado my permanent home until further notice. Currently, I live in Denver, which is such a great spot for me. When I was growing up my mom always had a camera around. We also would get national geographic sent to the house and I remember always being completely entranced by the imagery. I worked in solar out of college, but my passion was very much embedded in the creative world and one day I decided to take the leap and go “all in” with photography.”

What’s the story behind the name, ‘Victor of Valencia’?

“I remember first getting into Instagram and having the most difficult time coming up with a handle. In the social media world many people call me Victor, which to me always gives me a bit of a laugh, but my real name is Luke. Victor is my middle, which was my grandfather’s name. Valencia sort came out of mid air one day, but to me it has represented more than just a name. It holds some sort of mystique and makes me feel a sense of wonder. Putting two and two together felt just right. I like to keep some mystery for sure.”

            Sopris Sunset

             Free People

How would you describe your photography style?

“As far as content, my style has changed dramatically since I first started taking photography seriously. At first, I mostly shot landscapes and had no desire to take up portraiture, but a few years later the scales completely switched. My love for portraiture has grown tremendously and I am completely enthralled by it. There is so much that goes into any photograph. To me, I think of every photo as a cinematic opportunity to tell a story. So, the subject, lighting, locations and not to mention the editing all play equal roles in the overall product. I used to see my editing as bright and having a watercolor feel, but since I have grown it has become much more moody with a pallet of pastels. Darker tones I feel have allowed me to bring out some pretty awesome emotions from my subjects.”

Your photos express a sense of freedom and adventure, what’s your inspiration behind your photos?

“Like I mentioned before, cinema and human emotion are the largest inspiring elements in my photography. Placing a subject in a beautiful place or even a dark coffee shop can give off entirely different reactions. That is what I love about it. Many times, my shoots are pre planned with locations, outfits, makeup and stylists. Though, as soon as the camera gets turned on it is the spontaneity that brings everything to life. That is the main inspiring fuel that keeps me growing and evolving.”

What has been your favourite photo, or photoshoot so far, and why?

“It is hard to pinpoint an exact photo or a photo shoot that has been my favorite. They are all so very different. I do keep coming back to a photo that I took while riding in the car with my dad once. We were driving on the eastern plains of Colorado. The sky was gloomy and had these amazing ropy clouds that seemed to go on forever. Sitting in the foreground was an armada of majestic horses of all colors. They stood stately and looked at me as we pulled over. It gave me such a powerful feeling. The colors all balanced so well. That may be my favorite to date.”

If you were given a free plane ticket to go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

“New Zealand has been place I have always wanted to visit. My affinity for the ocean and my love for the mountains makes this place an ultimate destination. Norway and the rest of Scandinavia are up there as well. Maybe I just want to live in modern day middle earth.”

Who are some of your favourite photographers at the moment?

“At the moment, my main inspirations are coming from some very talented portrait photographers such as @jaykreens, @jeremyguadac, @deanastacia and @jtuphoto to name a few. They all capture emotion so well and their balance of color, mood and locations is to perfection. They are masters of their craft in my mind.”

What does 2016 have in store for you?

“2016 is a big year! I am full of motivation and have felt so much inspiration. Traveling to new cities and shooting with new subjects while making new friends all at the same time is what is in my books. The excitement and possibilities are endless. It is a year of pushing myself creatively and stepping off the ledge into the unknown. How else do you grow? This is it.”

Finally, what’s your guilty pleasure? Do you listen to any cheesy music, or watch any terrible TV shows?

“Probably cheese. Cheese everything. It may be the death of me, but it’s freaking delicious.”

To see more of Luke’s work, visit his Instagram or his website. 

Article by Kit To

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80s Electronic Vibe: Carpenter Brut and Seth Ickerman

80s TV shows, old horror movies, oozing synthesizer music, 80s heavy metal and modern electro music put together.

Yes, that’s possible no matter how weird it sounds. Carpenter Brut evokes the spirit of heavy metal in electronic music and it’s the kind of weird you’ll love.

”I want to sound heavy and powerful, and it might not be that common in traditional electro music. But I certainly don’t want to play metal music with keyboards,” he told in his recent interview with Uncle T.

Carpenter Brut is simply too much electro for the metal scene and too much metal for the electro scene. You can watch his new Turbo Killer video amazingly directed by Seth Ickerman below↓

“The video has a deliberately abstract storyline. We decided to follow our instinct and go for something more visceral than cerebral. Turbo Killer seems to be telling an incomplete story, as if it was extracted from a longer plot," said Seth Ickerman on Turbo Killer.

So is there a chance for a new video? We certainly hope so!

French directing duo Raphaël Hernandez and Savitri Joly-Gonfard, better known by their pseudonym Seth Ickerman, specialise in transporting 80s aesthetics into modern stories. The French duo is currently working on their sci-fi action movie titled “Ickerman”.

The film takes place in a futuristic megalopolis where new technologies and virtual reality are ruling society. The story follows adventures of a nostalgic high-school teacher obsessed with 35 mm films and old cars. He falls into his imaginary world and he acts like the characters he’s obsessed with. The plot is about him trying to rescue his friend from digital era.

You can watch the first teaser below…

Believe it or not, this teaser was made after only one day of filming in Paris with a limited budget of €1000. The duo wishes to start shooting the film in 2017 - once they’ve secured funding.

To keep up to date with the Seth Ickerman’s sci-fi project, visit their official website and like them on Facebook.

Carpenter Brut is currently on tour…

“We’ll have drums, keyboards and guitar. It will allow us to bring some overall groove as well as some 80s guitar-hero pieces,” said Carpenter Brut.

You can follow Carpenter Brut on Facebook, Instagram and subscribe to his YouTube channel.

Article by Danica Ollerova

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Tiny Paper Flowers by Haruka Misawa

Japanese Designer, Haruka Misawa’s latest series of Tiny Paper Flowers was inspired by Pencil Shavings, and the shapes that were formed. The series features a wide range of floral shaped shavings in various explosion of colour.

Misawa described her technique to ThisisColossal, “Printing paper with a color gradation, she tightly wraps it in a pencil-like shape so the flowers blossom outward when scraped against the shaver. Each flower created in this method is completely unique, Misawa’s technique making it impossible to replicate the same design of each of her 15-40 mm flowers twice”.

You can find more of Misawa’s work on her website, or on Instagram.

Article by Kit To

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Introducing ALA.NI’s ”Suddenly” Remix ft. Chester Watson

Ala.NI’s song Suddenly undergoes a dark transformation in a new remix by Chester Watson. The Pitchfork-approved Florida rapper speeded up the beats and added his lyrics to create really dark (and a bit brooding) atmosphere which will most likely give you goosebumps.

The new remix comes along with a visual counterpart. The video was shot on Ala.NI’s iPad in disused railway arches in East London. Check out the menacing video below.

Ala.NI is a West London artist and an accomplished vocalist. She appeared on stage as a backing singer with Damon Albarn, Blur and Mary J. Blige.

”It was a great training. To see someone like Damon go out there with two hours sleep, sometimes a bit drunk, but then totally kill it,” she told Glamour.

Ala.NI was successful, but she didn't carve out a space for her own art until four years ago when she released her first song called I'll Remember. Ala.NI, also described as a contemporary Billie Holiday, will release her debut album later in June.

Ala.NI was raised by Grenada-born parents – a reggae-calypso bassist father, and a couture seamstress mother. In addition, her great uncle was Leslie ”Hutch” Hutchinson - one of the biggest cabaret stars of the 20s and 30s. Ala.NI spent her childhood listening to various genres of music.

She is known for her divine voice and lush chords. Her vintage-hued voice makes it sound as if it’s been unearthed from the 40s. Dummy Mag described her style as ”lush yet melancholy, nostalgic yet somehow haunting.” ALA.NI’s debut EP YOU & I Spring is about enchanted and unfulfilled love.  

Listen to her bluesy voice below…

Ala.NI combines timeless jazz influences with very modern approaches. If she had to describe her music style, she would describe it as dark Disney. It feels like the original piano-driven bluesy version of Suddenly is more Disney than dark and Chester Watson, the rapper responsible for the dark remix, has never been to Disneyland.

The singer’s debut album You & I will be released on June 3 2016. All songs were written and produced by Ala.NI. You can pre-order the album on iTunes.

Ala.NI will be supporting Rufus Wainwright at Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre on June 5 and will headline London The Forge on June 15 2016.

Follow Ala.NI’s music career on her official website, Twitter and Facebook.

Article by Danica Ollerova

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Scandi Style

I’m a massive fan of the Scandinavian, minimal style of dressing. For me, it’s incredibly elegant, timeless and above all; classy. Although the minimalist look is nothing new; it’s been the centre of attention during the past few seasons. With the revival of the wide leg trouser, and the introduction of trainers as the ‘must have’ accessory, it has enabled everyone to get in on the Scandi, relaxed way of life and fashion.

Some of the most followed fashion bloggers are from Scandinavia, with their enticing simplicity and ultra modern looks, the Nordic countries are fast becoming the place to be. With Denmark and Sweden having a long history of design, it’s no wonder that the natives seem to have a natural, inbuilt exquisite sense of style.

I consider myself as quite a simple, minimalistic dresser; wearing mainly black and denim and staying away from garish patterns. I was definitely surprised when I myself got the chance to see what the scandi-style first hand, when I visited Demark and Sweden last month - I felt totally overdressed! As I mentioned, my style is not very ‘out there’. I tend to play it safe and wear what I feel comfortable in. Well, staying in Copenhagen, it felt like I wasn’t in on the memo – almost every single girl aged 15 – 40 wore what I would describe as the Nordic uniform. This consisted of; black cropped pants, white tee/grey jumper, oversized coat in navy/camel/black and finished off with an oversize scarf and of course; trainers. I fell in love. I wanted to ditch my frayed denim jeans and military pea coat, and raid the nearest Cos store! 

Speaking of which; Cos and & Other Stories were without doubt the most popular stores over there and they also coming in at about 15% cheaper than the UK, so I definitely recommend a visit if you’re over there. And you only have to step inside to see why; rows of minimal tunics, plain tees and simple accessories. I thought I’d take a look at the current online selection of pieces, and put together a little style guide of how to achieve the Scandinavian look.

             Shawl Collar Jacket, Straight Tailored Trousers, Midi Mac

            Luxe Bomber Jacket, Monki Oversized Duster Coat, Clean Tailored Trousers

            Chino Trousers, Flatform Trainers, Velcro Trainers

            New Balance 999, Adidas Originals Superstar, Oversized Chevron Scarf

Article by Lauren Çokgüler

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Archive by Alexa Chung for Marks and Spencer

Ever since we first heard about the incredible collaboration between two well loved British icons, we’ve been on the edge of our seats to see just how this dream collection will turn out – and for many, it didn’t disappoint. The undeniable buzz and excitement surrounding the ‘Archive’ collab came to a head, when the full 31 piece collection was finally released to the public. The next day, every vintage fashion blogger worth their salt, was seen sporting the Eliza or Elsie (I know too cute!), and with well over 11,000 customers pre-registered to buy the pieces on the M&S website, most of the population of teenage/twenty-something girls of Britain were wearing them too!

Despite her mainly vintage style; Alexa is a true fashion chameleon, enabling her to change her style from the classic and simple tee, jeans and pumps through to elegant evening gowns (although often finished with old converse trainers!). This has to be the biggest plus point about her capsule collection; there is something for everyone. From a personal point of view, although I admire her style, I tend not to go for the ultra girly, kind of childish (in a good way) look. And although the majority of the pieces are inspired by heritage and all things vintage, she has also curated a collection of pieces that can easily fit into the more minimalist style. The Ada trousers and co-coordinating blazer are classics that would be in place in any wardrobe, and the Frances trench is an absolute must have for spring! Strong summer hues and endless ditsy florals, compliment the ultra feminine shapes of the tea dresses and simple slips. This combined with a ‘mix and match’ style collection of basic tees and lingerie inspired vests, give a childhood feel, mixing the colour palette of the sixties with the shapes and fit of the early 90s; two decades that Alexa had previously said she draws inspiration. The price point is also a massive bonus. Unlike some of the designer ranges at M&S, Achieve has stuck to the ‘Limited Collection’ average price, with most of the collection costing around or under £40.

The collection is definitely aimed at the younger market; a target audience that Marks and Spencer have made no secret about wanting to entice back into their stores. The frilly t-shirts and floral slips dresses reminiscent of the 90s, are huge trends this season, and with most girls wanting to wear what their hero (and with most styles already sold out!) they will definitely be taking sales from rivals Topshop and Asos!

Shop the collection now.

Article by Lauren Çokgüler

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Miyazaki Glitch Series by Hyo Taek Kim

Relive your favourite childhood moments in authentic VHS glory. Brazillian Korean American (or BKA, for short) Illustrator, Hyo Taek Kim’s latest series ‘Myazaki Glitch’ is inspired by cult classic Studio Ghibli movies. Kim brings to life our favourite Ghibli characters (Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Ponyo, etc) in a pop art style and distorts them with a retro style fuzziness and discolouration to perfectly recreate the VHS glitch effect. 

"Ghibli is the master of creating emotions, and I love to revisit these moments whenever I get the chance," says Kim. He tells us that the idea of creating glitchy pieces of art came from his own memories of watching Miyazaki films on VHS and having to pause for dinner. "I can almost smell the rice and beans being cooked in the kitchen," he says as he reflects on the series.

If you’re interested in picking up a print from this series or Kim’s other pieces, visit: Curioos. To see more of Hyo Taek Kim’s work visit: mikoyh.com, or visit his Instagram: @hyotaekkim.

Article by Kit To

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Katarina Tamova - Center of the World

Photographer: Katarina Tamova

Styling: Dominika Fürstenzeller

Hair and Makeup: Mischel Warenits

Model: Vanessa Mayerova – Exit Model Management

Poetry: Safiya Sinclair

"The meek inherit nothing. God in his tattered coat 
this morning, a quiet tongue in my ear, begging for alms,
 cold hands reaching up my skirt. Little lamb, paupered flock, bless my black tea with tears. I have shorn your golden fleece, worn vast spools of white lace, glittering jacquard, gilded fig leaves, jewelled dust
 on my skin. Cornsilk hair in my hems.”

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Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

The Star Wars spin off, ‘Rogue One’ was announced last year and the teaser has finally dropped. The spin off set in between the angry, children killing Star Wars Episode III: The Revenge of the Sith, and Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, or more commonly known as just ‘Star Wars’. 

Felicity Jones plays Jyn Erso a rebel soldier on a mission to steal the Death Star plans. Spoiler Alert! She does, thus setting in motion, Episode IV: A New Hope. Genevieve O'Reilly reprises her role as Mon Mothma, leader of the rebel alliance. 

            The return of the crowd favourite, AT-AT. 

What are your thoughts on the Rogue One teaser? Let us know in the comments!

Article by Kit To

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Insta-view: Evelyn Bencicova

Born and raised in Bratislava, Evelyn Bencicova is a photographer studying at Vienna’s University of Applied Arts. Evelyn’s photographs are set in a cold but beautiful fantasy reality that explores the unique lives of different characters. She built her imagination from observing the different lives of people living in her housing estate as a her child. With almost 50,000 followers across social media, it’s no surprise why everyone is drawn to her art. This year, Evelyn further grasped the attention of photographers around the world after winning the Hasselblad Master Awards for her “Close” series. 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and growing up in Bratislava? Did you discover your love for photography as a child? Does the creative arts run in the family? 

“It is hard to trace the beginning of my photographic background. I grew up in a huge housing estate where the only view were the windows of other people. It seemed like hundreds of identical screens but always with the different story. As a child I used to observe all these people through these rectangular frames and build my whole imagination on very few details which fitted inside. But I always knew more than I saw, I imagined the whole flat, the entire reality and my fantasy always worked in pictures. 

My parents grew up in a different time and regime when it was not so easy to follow your creative vision as it is today. Even though they don’t work in this field they taught me to be very ambitious and independent what might be even more important that any artistic knowledge or skill.”

Are you studying photography at the moment? 

“Yes I’m studying at University of Applied Arts Vienna in the department of photography and fine art. Here I’m gaining most of my theoretical knowledge but in the matter of photography I learned everything in praxis. Like in my other activities, life is the best school.”

If you were to describe your style of photography in one sentence, what would it be?

“My photography is a fiction based on truth. I like to balance between art and commerce, focusing on visual as well as conceptual side of photography. Sorry 2 sentences!”

What inspires your photography?

“Everything. I’m a fusion of all things around me joined into one whole unit.”

Congratulations on winning the Hasselblad Masters Awards! How was the whole experience? Has things changed since winning? 

“It changed mostly now when I started to work with Hasselblad equipment. I feel delighted even to hold it in my hands but Im also feeling a huge responsibility of fulfilling my task. With every accomplishment there are bigger expectations and risk to fail so I feel happiness and fear at the same time!”

Can you talk about your ‘Close’ series? What was your inspiration behind the art direction?

“Close deals with various relationships showed by simple hand and body gestures. Im always inspired by personal issues which I portray in a general way, so every person can apply his own feeling and story.”

What has been your favourite project to work on, and why? 

“I cannot compare it because every project is something different. I’m trying to avoid staying on the safe ground and always go for a challenge.”

The way you portray the human body in your photos, especially in the ‘Ecce Homo’ series is incredibly beautiful and tasteful. In the world of #freethenipple and so much controversy over the naked body, what are your thoughts on the naked body, and what are you trying to convey in your photos? 

“I don’t use nudity in erotic context. For me naked body symbolises something very human and natural. I don’t understand why it should be something to be ashamed and afraid of.”

Who do you base the characters in your photos from? Are they completely made up or based on actual people? 

“It depends on a project. Sometimes people just play a role, they became my own character for the time before a camera and give a body to my idea (ICON Series). In another occasion I get inspired by real personalities and choose more documentary approach on capturing as much of their character as I can (RIPE Series).”

Can you describe your creative process when approaching a project? 

“Our main role is to tell a story without words. If you work with staged photography you have to create the whole world, in which immaterial idea changes into reality captured on the picture. To take the photo is the last and easiest step.”

What projects are currently working on? “You will see it when it is done :)”

Is there any advice you wish you were told when you started photography?

“I still feel like starting or at least starting over and over with every new project. An advice to myself and anybody else: Trust your vision. Appreciate every help, be thankful for compliments, listen to critique and learn from your mistakes. Don’t be afraid to fail and never give up!”

Finally, what do you hope the final photo you ever take will be of?

“My goals are not that specific. I want to explore deeper topic of my interest and use photography as a way to communicate this with the world. I want to use the opportunity to make things visible with responsibility and drive attention to issues, which I consider important. I hope that I will never lose my drive and passion and that I have my whole life in front of me to complete this task.”

Follow Evelyn’s work on: Facebook, Instagram, or check out her website!

Article by Kit To

[ei8htmagazine]

Zara Genderless Clothing

If there is one issue that has defined our generation, it has to be the topic of gender, or to put it better; the questioning of gender stereotypes and how this impacts on today’s society. Don’t get me wrong, the visionary legend that was David Bowie was challenging the gender barriers way back in the seventies, and the new romantic phase in the eighties was all about pushing the limits with men wearing make-up and ‘feminine’ clothing. In fact, since the beginning of time, people have been questioning the largely social construct of gender and whether it’s acceptable to mix and match ideals and beliefs of what a man and woman ‘should be ’. However, in today’s society, with all of our technology, social media and ability to share beliefs and opinions with people from all over the world, the real issue of gender and how it impacts our lives, has become a talking point, and some would say a ‘trend’. 

With Toy R Us famously defending their pink and blue aisles for boys and girls, suggesting that it was the parents themselves who decided what toys their child could play with; it got a lot of people talking; is it really our choice, or are brands and businesses ultimately deciding for us and we just ‘go along with it’. When it was announced that Zara was launching their very first ‘Ungendered’ clothing range, it was met largely with praise and enthusiasm, a new way of thinking in terms of clothing, breaking barriers and beginning to normalise the ‘genderless’ concept. So when the collection was eventually launched last month, we couldn’t wait to see what this revolutionary clothing range actually looked like.

I have to say, like others, I was slightly disappointed. Zara have put together 16 pieces of incredibly plain, nondescript and dare a say boring pieces of clothing. This ranges from plain white tees, to washed out blue denim jeans. Anybody could have put this collection together from more or less any high street store, as all of the pieces are already available. The fact they’ve very cleverly been branded as ‘Ungendered’ and are in a separate section of the site, I feel (perhaps cynically) that this is not really about the power of the people or a landmark change in the fashion industry, but merely a very clever marketing ploy. I was expecting pieces that actually challenged the conventional masculine, feminine styles and cuts of clothing, but instead, it is oversized, unstructured and pretty ‘safe’. It could be seen by some to actually undermine the entire ‘genderless’ concept and beliefs, with Zara’s collection just being the latest trend of social media and that our young people are not learning the true context behind the range. 

Either way, it has to be said that the topic of gender and the role it plays on our lives, has definitely been brought back to the spotlight, which can only be a good thing.

Shop Zara’s Ungendered collection: http://www.zara.com/uk/en/trf/ungendered-c816001.html

Article by Lauren Çokgüler

[ei8htmagazine]

Aerial Photographs by Daniel Beltrá Captures Our Impact on Nature

               7th July 2014, Iceland’s Ölfusá River

Daniel Beltrá has spent the last twenty years travelling the world capturing Mother Nature’s beauty from the skies, and our impact on the environment. 

Some of Beltrá’s most renowned work were from his ‘Spill’ series. The series was shot during the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Beltrá captured the scale of the spill from skies in an several airplanes and helicopters.

Beltrá’s latest exhibition, ‘Ice/Green Lans’ at the Catherine Edelman Gallery ended on the 5th March. The exhibition includes stunning aerial photos of the cool, icy, Nordic landscapes. You can see photos from the exhibition at the Catherine Edelman Gallery website.

              7th February 2014 Iceland Aerial

              August 24th, 2014, Ilulissat, Greenland

              August 19th, 2014, Ilulissat, Greenland

              February 8th 2007, Southern Ocean

To see more of Daniel Beltrá’s work, visit his website: http://danielbeltra.photoshelter.com/ 

Article by Kit To