GET READY WITH ME: EDITORIAL LOOKBOOK
Vintage pieces, styled by me, pulled from the Generations.Swiss archive. A personal edit from a private showroom visit, now finally shared.
GRWM
Bringing you a selection of vintage pieces from Generations.Swiss that I styled during a visit to their private showroom. After exploring their archive and fitting several standout looks, these are the ones I chose to photograph. Rare finds, personally styled, now brought to you.
MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT
Balmain sequined jacket
MODERNLY CLASSIC
Max Mara single-breasted long camel blazer
Alexander McQueen four-ring clutch black and white pony hair
DETAILS THAT CARRY THE LOOK
Oscar de la Renta mesh top / Dior magné cuffs from the vault (Still stunned by this pairing)
EFFORTLESSLY BLEND COMFORT WITH STYLE
Valentino Tie-dye cashmere sweater
Gianvito Rossi Vamp suede ankle boots
STACKED IN GOLD
Vintage treasures from Generations.Swiss. The weight, the shape, the mix. Just right
Find them ALL at: @generations.swiss
I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER: STOCKHOLM
Sometimes you need to get away without going far. My solo trip to Stockholm was all about slowing down, eating well, and making space to think.
3 MIN READ
STOCKHOLM
Sometimes you need to step away to reset. Stockholm gave me just that. Long walks, small moments, simple pleasures. A reminder that solo travel has its own rhythm and that’s the one you set.
WHERE I STAYED
I stayed at Villa Dagmar in Östermalmstorg located right in the center. The design was thoughtful and elegant. Velvet chairs, checkered floors, soft light in every corner. Modern, but with that old-world ease. Every detail felt like it was placed with care. The staff struck that balance. Kind, discreet, never “doing the most”, just right. 
Breakfast each morning was fresh, healthy, and light. Smoked salmon, eggs, fruit, and excellent coffee. Simple food that made you feel good. One night, I had an early dinner at their restaurant, Dagges. Quiet, relaxed, with other solo diners reading or scrolling just like me. The kind of place that understands solitude.
Within my first hour in Stockholm, I ran into my friend Johan from Geneva. One of those moments where we both blinked, unsure if we were actually seeing each other. We caught up quickly and he recommended Lisa Elmqvist for lunch. A 90-year-old seafood spot inside Östermalms Saluhall, surrounded by locals, counters full of Swedish delicacies, and the buzz of midday energy. I ordered fish & chips (go figure) and opened my latest book, All About Love by bell hooks. At some point, a stranger asked if they could take a photo of me reading. I said yes. It felt like part of the solo adventure. WHERE I WENT
I walked a lot with no plan, just curiosity. One day I came across octagonal elegance, Hedvig Eleonora Church. I didn’t go inside, simply walking the outskirts felt grounding.
I crossed to Skeppsholmen Island on foot, taking in the waterfront, greenery and the quiet. At Moderna Museet, Stockholm’s modern art museum, I soaked in Maurizio Cattelan’s exhibition The Third Hand. It was provocative, ironic, dark, and playful all in one breath. Outside, sculptures by Picasso and Calder sat almost casually, as if they sprouted from the landscape. Then a quick bite at Bloom Café before my next adventure. 
Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, was exactly what I hoped for. I didn’t know where the winding streets would take me, and that was part of the charm. I fell in love with the statues tucked into corners, the views that opened up above the city when I wasn’t expecting them. Locals and tourists mixing nicely. I caught the changing of the guards by accident. While the crowd hushed, the guards marched then a military band played. One of those moments that felt larger than it was.The Royal Treasury was the one time I did the proper tourist thing. Bought a ticket, waited in line, followed the signs. Down in the vault, crowns, swords, and velvet cloaks sat behind glass. I moved slowly, trying to remember everything I’d once learned in costume history class. The silhouettes, the embroidery, the symbolism. Seeing them up close felt like a privilege. I was glad I went. History you could almost touch.
After a full day touristing, I ended up at Viva Fika Wine. A small, casual spot tucked into the old town. I figured hey it’s time for Swedish meatballs. In the true spirit of “fika”, which means taking a pause, that’s exactly what I did. Later that evening, I stopped by the Stockholm Soho House for a mocktail. When I walked in, Hanna Kilgren from the team greeted me with such warmth. That kind of welcome means something when you’re traveling alone. I don’t recall her title, but she’s definitely someone who helps shape the place. She offered to show me around.The space was incredible. Housed in a former church, with vaulted ceilings, stained glass, and design choices that somehow made it feel both grand and intimate. Hanna told me her grandmother had once been a parishioner there. That detail stayed with me.
She invited me to return for dinner at their restaurant, Cecconi’s, but I had other plans. A massage back at the hotel. A quiet, perfect end to the day.WHAT I LISTENED TO
Mostly quiet. Footsteps, the sea, café murmurs, and my own thoughts.
WHAT I TOOK HOME
Stockholm gave me space. A bucket list city that lived up to it. History, design, the sea, good food, and room to think. Solo trips remind you that you don’t need anyone else to have a good time. You sit with your thoughts, move how you want, and nothing feels wasted. It’s a quiet kind of luxury I want more of.
Vila Dagmar room
WHERE I eAT
LISA ELMQVIST Östermalms Saluhall
Östermalmstorg 114 39 Stockholm
VIVA FIKA WINE
Kindstugatan 1, 111 31 Stockholm
DAGGES at Villa Dagmar
Nybrogatan 25–27, 114 39 Stockholm
CAFÉ BLOOM Moderna Museet
CECCONI’S Soho House Stockholm
Majorsgatan 5, 114 47 Stockholm
WHERE I STAYED
VILLA DAGMAR
Nybrogatan 25–27, 114 39 Stockholm
WHERE I WENT
GAMLA STAN Old Town, Stockholm
Ever taken a solo trip? Or thinking about one? Join the conversation, tell us in the comments!
You might also like this related article: I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER: MYKONOS
CAN THE EU’S NEW LAW CHANGE FASHION’S FUTURE?
The EU’s new law is forcing fashion brands to rethink everything, from overproduction to transparency. Will it actually change fashion’s future, or will brands find ways around it?
3 MIN READ
It’s widely known by now that the fashion industry is a major contributor to waste, overproduction, overconsumption and pollution and that past voluntary sustainability efforts have fallen short. Which is why the European Union (EU) wants to change that with their new law, the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), one of the most ambitious sustainability laws to globally hit fashion to date.It’s forcing brands to rethink everything, from how they produce clothing and accessories to how they manage their unsold stock. By banning the destruction of unsold goods, imposing repairability and recyclability and requiring Product Passports, the EU aims to make sustainability a legal requirement, not a marketing choice.More than a trend, it’s a regulation with consequences that will set the tone for where the industry is heading. Here is what it means for fashion brands, us the consumers and the future of sustainability in this space.WHY THIS LAW MATTERS
Unfortunately, for years, sustainability in fashion has been more about brand messaging than meaningful change.What makes this so different is that it’s legally binding. Fashion brands selling in the EU, and those who want EU customers, will now have to meet strict product design, durability, and transparency constraints.Key Shifts:No more destroying unsold clothes as brands will need to resell, donate, or recycle excess inventory.Clothes will need to be made to last requiring minimum durability, repairability, and recyclability standards.Consumers will be able to scan a QR code and see exactly where a garment was made, its materials, and its sustainability profile.Crackdown on greenwashing as brands cannot use sustainability claims without real, verifiable proof.
For consumers, this could mean more transparency and better-quality products. For fashion brands, it signals that the days of mass production with no accountability may be numbered. We’ve all seen those images or reports of discarded and sometimes unsold stock washing up on the beaches of countries like Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Uganda, where secondhand clothing markets are overwhelmed by waste.WHAT THIS MEANS FOR FASHION BRANDS
Fashion brands, especially those operating at scale, will need to rethink supply chains, materials, and how they manage their waste.
Fashion brands, especially those operating at scale, will need to rethink supply chains, materials, and how they manage their waste.In the UK, a recently published report from WRAP (a UK-based climate action NGO) found that over 60% of secondhand clothing purchases replaced the need to buy something new. While this is UK-specific, it shows the broader potential of resale and repair models when supported at scale.With design requirements prioritizing repairability and recyclability, brands will need to invest in resale, rental, and take-back schemes. Those who move early will be best positioned for long-term success.For the luxury fashion sector, this aligns with existing values of craftsmanship and longevity. For mass-market brands, it presents an opportunity to shift toward higher-quality, lower-volume production.WHAT CONSUMERS SHOULD EXPECT
This shift will hopefully push a new mindset around consumption and presents an opportunity to build a more responsible, informed fashion culture. Something I would love to see!
So, what does this mean when you shop for clothes?
Better quality, longer lasting garments.
More transparency on materials and sourcing backed by real data.
Expect more secondhand and brand-led circular projects.
Potential price adjustments as higher sustainability standards can increase costs, but they also mean better long-term value.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
ESPR is part of a broader movement toward regulatory-backed sustainability in fashion. Similar policies could soon follow in other major markets, accelerating the shift toward circularity and transparency worldwide.For brands, adapting is about compliance and staying relevant in a changing landscape. And for consumers, this means greater access to quality, ethically produced fashion that aligns with both style and sustainability.A DEFINING MOMENT FOR THE INDUSTRY
All this to say, regulation is finally catching up with fashion’s sustainability promises. ESPR will be a clear push toward a more responsible industry. The brands that embrace this shift proactively, rather than resisting it, will be the ones shaping fashion’s next chapter. Brands like Stella McCartney and Ganni, which have long embraced this way of producing, are already way ahead of the game.What do you think? Will these new rules lead to real change, or will brands find ways around them? Join the conversation, share in the comments!You might also like this earlier post: GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK: SUSTAINABLE AND CIRCULAR TEXTILES
WHY I STOPPED DRINKING: PART 2 (THE EMOTIONAL)
Let’s explore the emotional challenges and rewards of living sober. Discover how sobriety reshaped my emotions, relationships, and self-awareness, creating space for clarity and growth.
3 MIN READ
Image: Inga Seliverstova
I started drinking early on in life, like so many people do. Over the years, I only stopped once for a year, just to prove I could. Then I went right back to it. What struck me when I stopped drinking for good was realizing that I had never truly lived as an adult with a sober mind. Who was I, really, without alcohol?I stopped drinking because I realized the enjoyment had worn off, and the emotional rollercoaster in the days after started to take its toll. Feelings were harder to manage at work, and the highs and lows felt steeper than ever. I knew that if I kept drinking, I wouldn’t be able to manage my emotions in the way I wanted or needed to.FACING THE EMOTIONAL CRUTCHES
At first, I realized how deeply tied drinking was to my emotions. A glass of wine after a hard day. A celebratory toast with friends. A drink to ease social anxiety as a natural introvert.When I stopped, it became clear that I had been sidestepping the work of processing my emotions fully.
Alcohol had been a crutch, one that kept me from truly sitting with discomfort or even joy. I had to build an entirely new relationship with myself. The idea felt daunting, but I was ready.And it wasn’t easy. I noticed that when I felt down or triggered, my first thought was often to call a friend and meet for a drink. It was fascinating how automatic that impulse was. Without alcohol, my emotions felt sharper, harder to soothe.
Image: Inga Seliverstova
But I leaned into the discomfort allowing myself to feel it. Learning to soothe an inner child that was throwing tantrums. My first step was identifying triggers, whether happy or sad then finding new ways to cope. This included embracing being perceived as "boring" at social gatherings and even saying “no thanks” to invitations when I needed alone time. I had to accept that this was part of who I was becoming.The rewards, though, were undeniable. I had more time, more money, and a newfound sense of control over my impulses.REDISCOVERING MYSELF
Sobriety helped me uncover parts of myself that had been muted. I rediscovered my love for staying home and reading, something I adored as a child but had neglected over the years. I reflected deeply on my boundaries with friends and family, realizing how often I let myself be depleted.The changes were noticeable to those around me. My relationships shifted, sometimes uncomfortably, as people adjusted to the new me. But I was committed to honoring my needs.The journey wasn’t without stumbles. I missed exploring new bars and envied others choosing French over Italian wine at dinner. I felt awkward and isolated at times.
But I found new rituals. Coffee became my wine. I sought out cafes like I once did bars, journaling in quiet corners and treasuring the experience. To my surprise, friends started joining me for coffee, appreciating the escape from alcohol-centric outings.Sobriety also gave me the time and clarity to focus on other areas of my life. I deepened my meditation practice, became more intentional with my nutrition, and pushed my limits in Pilates, discovering what my newly sober body could achieve.THE GIFT OF SOBRIETY
Years into this journey, I can say sobriety is the best gift I’ve ever given myself. It’s unlocked a resilience I didn’t know I had through better emotional regulation. My focus is sharper, and my relationships have flourished because I have.Sobriety allowed me to reclaim my emotional world, one I felt slipping away. I face challenges with more clarity and self-awareness. I’ve been able to forgive old wounds, including my role in past relationships, and finally put them to rest. In doing so, I’ve created space for new people and experiences to enter my life.WHAT SOBRIETY TAUGHT ME ABOUT LOVE
Developing emotional fortitude is something we should all strive for, whether through sobriety or other means. The key is to give your emotions space to breathe, whether they’re grief, anger, fear, or joy.The most profound emotion I had to navigate, though, was love…the love of self.
4
Emotional Gains You Can Find in Sobriety
1. Feel more grounded and authentic without emotions dulled by alcohol.
2. Clear your mind for sharper decisions and renewed focus.
3. Build deeper and more honest connections in your relationships.
4. Discover the strength to process and embrace your emotions fully.
What might you uncover about yourself if you gave your emotions the space to breath?Join the conversation, tell us about your experience in the comments!Missed the first part check it out here: WHY I STOPPED DRINKING PART 1
WEB SUMMIT: BEING BLACK IN TECH - PART 2: BUILDING RACIAL EQUALITY
Explore challenges and solutions for diversity in tech, inspired by Web Summit. Learn how to create inclusive workplaces and amplify voices of people of color.
1.2 MIN READ
BEING BLACK IN TECH PART 2
Building structures for racial equality is an important conversation across every industry. In tech, the numbers show we still have a long way to go. According to Kim Smouter, Director General at the European Network Against Racism, 75% of people in tech are white, while only 25% are people of color. Tech remains one of the least inclusive industries.The Need for Diversity in Tech
Fighting racism isn’t a quick fix. It’s not a sprint. It’s a marathon requiring deliberate and sustained effort over time. But here’s the thing: technology gives us tools to mobilize, and social media amplifies our voices. There’s a reason to believe change is possible.One powerful question we need to ask is, Who’s missing from the table?
If people of color aren’t represented during key decisions, we have to ask why. More importantly, we need to figure out how to change that.
image: Ola Dapo
Building Structures for Racial Equality
At Web Summit, Kim Smouter shared practical ways to address the gaps in tech. Here are three actions we can take now.Hire inclusively by revamping recruitment processes to prioritize diversity at all levels, especially in leadership roles.Create real accountability by setting and enforcing codes of conduct that address racism and inequality in the workplace.Educate people about Europe’s colonial past, which shaped much of the systemic racism we see today. Understanding this history is essential for building a better future.
These steps aren’t revolutionary on their own, but they create real progress when implemented consistently.
How to Eradicate Racism in European Tech
The European tech industry has a deep diversity problem, and racism lies at its core. Where do we start?
1. Fix biased data. Tech relies on data, but when that data reflects bias, the outcomes do too. Companies must question and correct biases in their systems.
2. Amplify the voices of people of color by making space for leadership and decision-making roles where their influence can drive change.
3. Promote social mobility through education. Investing in career development for people of color helps break cycles of inequality.
THE ROAD AHEAD
The fight for racial equality in tech won’t be easy, but it’s necessary. It’s about creating an industry where everyone belongs. From hiring practices to leadership representation, companies need to be intentional. By asking the hard questions, amplifying the right voices, and taking real action, we can start building an inclusive future. What’s one action you or your company can take to amplify diversity in tech?
Join the conversation, share in the comments!Missed the first part check it out here: WEB SUMMIT: BEING BLACK IN TECH - PART 1
ARTISTS I LOVE: GERALD LOVELL
Gerald Lovell’s textured oil paintings bring everyday Black life to the forefront. Discover why his work stopped me in my tracks and how it celebrates culture, community, and shared humanity.
2.5 MIN READ
While walking through the halls of Art Basel, I was stopped dead in my tracks by Gerald Lovell’s painting Untitled (Christian's Birthday).
It depicts the artist himself with his four friends squeezed together on a couch, leaning into each other, laughing, throwing up peace signs and inside jokes. You can almost hear the soundtrack of the moment, probably someone’s playlist in the background. It’s the kind of closeness you can’t fake and an energy that’s unmistakable. At least to me.
Untitled (Christian's Birthday), 2023
oil on panel, 72 x 60 ins. | 182.9 x 152.4 cm
I didn’t just see it. I felt it. I could see myself sitting on that couch being part of that moment.
It took me back to my roots. Back to my brothers and friends. Back to growing up in Black urban spaces in New York. Where joy, camaraderie and that “if you know, you know” energy was always there. The vividness of the scene, the way it captured so much life, had me standing there, taking it all in for what felt like forever.
Lovell says he’s inspired by people affirming who they are in their everyday lives. And that’s exactly what this felt like. He pulls from photographs of his friends, family and community to capture what’s often missing in the traditional art world: unfiltered Black life. Artists like him are helping shift that absence.
A UNIQUE BLEND OF INFLUENCE AND CULTURE
Lovell’s work bridges classical painting techniques with contemporary Black culture. He draws from the styles of Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Austrian painters yet his subject matter centers on us, on Black people, our stories, and our spaces. It feels like a celebration, unapologetic and proud.
“My work is really centered in creating honest depictions of the people I’m around… I feel like I’m affirming them and their existence. I feel like I’m capturing moments of self-satisfaction.”
It brings to mind Kendrick Lamar’s words: They not like us. Lovell paints for us, about us. His work feels like a calm rebellion, making space in a world that often erases or overlooks Black narratives.
Gunna's hands, 2022
Oil on wood, 20 × 16 in | 50.8 × 40.6 cm
Waiting I, 2023
Oil on panel, 24 × 24 in | 61 × 61 cm
You see this beautifully in pieces like Gunna’s Hands, where he reimagines, the album cover of Atlanta rapper Gunna, or Waiting I, which features the iconic Telfar bag, lovingly called the “Bushwick Birkin.” These works connect cultural icons and are intentional choices that elevate our everyday.
THE CRAFT OF GERALD LOVELL
Lovell’s oil technique is stunning. His textured brushwork draws you in. Up close, you see every layer. Every expression. Every detail chosen with care.
Despite being self-taught, his work feels refined and instinctual. At a fair full of art competing for attention, Lovell’s piece stood out. It was beautiful, deep with a sense of purpose.
The artist in his studio courtesy of @geraldlovell
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Gerald Lovell was born in Chicago in 1992 and raised in Atlanta by Puerto Rican and African American parents. He began painting in grade school but started his professional journey in 2014. Now based in Brooklyn, New York, Lovell’s work has been shown in galleries and fairs worldwide, including New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, and Basel.
His paintings come from a place of love, reflection, and memory. They offer a glimpse into Black life that feels intimate, conveying real moments that speak even when no words are said.
His subjects are living and reminds us of the beauty in that. Of the stories worth telling. And of the power in seeing ourselves, fully, on canvas.
It’s powerful and exactly what the culture needs.
WHERE TO FIND THE ARTIST
Follow on Instagram: (@geraldlovell)
Tell us what you think of Gerald Lovell’s work. Or tell us about an artist you love.
Join the conversation, share in the comments!
You might also like these related articles: ARTISTS I LOVE: ZANDILE TSHABALALA, ARTISTS I LOVE: AYANFE OLARINDE
WHAT HARVARD TAUGHT ME ABOUT LEADERSHIP AND MYSELF
Leadership is more than about being the boss. It’s a mindset anyone can embrace. I’ll share what I learned during my time at Harvard Business School’s Advancing Women of Color in Leadership.
4 MIN READ
boston mass
I never thought I’d see myself at Harvard. For someone who didn’t shine academically as a kid, walking through the iconic gates felt surreal. The buzz of other students, the click of my Celine loafers hitting the cobblestones, and the sheer history of the place reminded me just how far I’d come. What grounded me in that moment was something more personal: a sense of belonging, growth, and the quiet confidence that I was ready to lead in my own way, proving to myself that I was always capable.-
Leadership isn’t about being the boss. It’s a mindset anyone can embrace. During my time at Harvard Business School’s Advancing Women of Color in Leadership Executive Program, I learned that leadership is about showing up, owning your space, and lifting others. In this post, I’ll share what I learned and how you can embrace leadership in your own way. 
Leadership Isn’t About Titles
Last year, I took some time for myself—away from friends, social media, and even writing on this very blog. I wanted to develop and understand how to become the leader I knew I could be. For a long time, I thought leadership meant managing a team, being in charge, or having a big title. But during the Harvard course, I learned otherwise. Leadership can be found in small, meaningful acts that bring value to those around us, actions that anyone can step into.
As I sat in my dorm room preparing for a session, with papers spread out on the desk, I devoured a pre-read about what’s called a “Tempered Radical”. A tempered radical is someone who makes change happen quietly, with persistence and purpose. This idea stood out to me because it made leadership feel approachable. It showed me that leadership doesn’t have to be loud or at the head of the line. It can be as simple as quietly holding things together no matter where you stand. As someone who prefers being discrete, this resonated with me. For the first time, I saw that my quieter style of leadership was just as effective as any other.
The Power of Shared Experiences
While the course content was compelling, the real magic was in the community. Eighty-nine brilliant women of color, each with stories of resilience, gathered together in a way that felt rare and profound. When our professor spoke about the unique challenges we face as women of color in leadership, the collective sighs in the room were a shared release. There was an unspoken understanding that we had all felt this struggle deeply.
What made the program even more special were the morning check-ins over coffee with my dorm mates before classes. These sessions felt safe, honest, and real. A space where we could speak openly about our wins and setbacks.
I shared details about my unconventional career journey of moving from entrepreneurship in the creative world of fashion to a more corporate setting. In turn, I listened to their stories with intent. Their experiences were layered with wisdom, emotion, and resilience.
Looking back, I realize we were already acting as leaders, even if I didn’t see it then.
Dreams Don’t Always Look the Way You Imagine
In high school, art was the only class I excelled in. I tried my best in everything else and was average at best. Toward the end of senior year, I enviously watched classmates apply to what we called the “big schools.” I felt like that path wasn’t for me, and for a long time, I believed it.
Life had a way of leading me to a dream I hadn’t even dared to imagine. Applying for and being accepted into this leadership program felt like stepping through a door I didn’t even know existed. Standing in the sunlight on the Harvard Business School campus, I realized that life sometimes doesn’t go as planned, but it can still lead to places we never imagined.
As I mentioned in my post, “Why I Hate and Love Fashion,” sometimes we must be open to the unexpected. In that post, I reflected on the importance of pivoting and embracing change, choosing to let go of what no longer serves us and trusting in what’s ahead. This leadership program was a reminder of that lesson: letting go, trusting opportunities, and being willing to evolve are all forms of leadership. For me, it meant setting a new direction, being courageous, and leading change within myself. By daring to turn old dreams into reality, I learned that leadership starts with believing in yourself and your ability to grow.
IS THERE A LEADER IN YOU?
Today, I can say I earned a Harvard certificate, but more importantly, I transformed how I see myself. It’s about showing up authentically and acting with intention, no matter your role or title. Whether you’re leading a team, a project, your family, or even just yourself, the power to lead is within you.
5 Takeaways to Help You Lead in Your Own Way
1. Leadership starts with the actions you take every day.
2. Quiet change-makers have the power to make a big impact.
3. Shared experiences can unlock new perspectives and possibilities.
4. Life’s detours often lead to unexpected and meaningful destinations.
5. The first step to leading is showing up for yourself.
Leadership starts with showing up. How will you show up for yourself today?
Join the conversation, share in the comments!
For more on personal development, check out my earlier post on embracing change: WHY I HATE AND LOVE FASHION
A DAY AT: ART BASEL
Come along with me and discover black artists who are making noise at one of the most famous art fairs in the world in the heart of Switzerland, Art Basel.
7 MIN READ
bale
MIAMI IS NICE BUT…
These days if anyone mentions Art Basel you instantly think of Miami. However, having lived in Switzerland for as long as I have, I instantly think of the quaint Swiss German city where the world-renowned art fair is name after, Basel or Bale as its written in German. I have never been to the edition in Miami which launched sometime in the 2000s, but I have been to the fair in Switzerland many times. The Swiss edition of the faire is certainly less glamourous, with almost no celebrities of note, less parties and is really only all about the art.
Having so many galleries to choose from and artists to learn about, Switzerland has proven to be a fantastic place for a keen art enthusiast like myself. Geneva in particular (where I live) has a thriving art scene as well. This in part, some say is due to the city’s oldest and largest freeport facility, which houses a major collection of artworks, with 40% of its total worth estimated at US$100 billion! That’s just insane if you ask me.
Since I went to art school here and because of the city’s small size, I have had the privilege of meeting and getting to know some of the world’s most renowned Swiss and international artists.
ABOUT THE FAIR
The Art Basel fair was launched in the 1970s by three Basel gallerists and was a success from the start. More than 16,000 visitors attended the inaugural show to see 90 galleries and 30 publishers from 10 countries.
The city of Basel is located in the northwestern part of Switzerland and boarders France and Germany. It is considered the cultural capital of Switzerland with about 40 museums in total and many art galleries to choose from, including one of my favorites the Foundation Beyeler. This makes Basel one of Europe's most significant cultural hubs for its size and population. So, if you love art and happen to be in Switzerland then this is definitely a place to check out!
The international art fair takes place annually in June at the Swiss exhibition site Messe Basel, which features a hall designed by international architects Herzog & de Meuron. I’m always excited to hop on the train to make the almost 3-hour ride. The event showcases the work of nearly 4,000 artists from around the world, spread among 200 of the world's best galleries. One of the highlights is the Unlimited sector of the fair which was introduced in 2000. Think a humungous hanger with over the top and oversized works of all kinds.
Within the past few years, I have made it a point to explore works by African American artists and also the rich work coming out of the African diaspora. So, when I landed at the Messe I made sure to pay close attention to works by black artists.
Here’s what I found.
Gordon Parks
I was so happy to see a photograph from the Kansas born photographer Gordan Parks. It is from his iconic series of photos commissioned by Life magazine in the 1950’s.The plight of Black Americans and the fight for civil rights is a common theme in his work.
In 1956 Parks went to Alabama to document segregation in the south. The photo depicts a black mother and her young daughter window shopping. All the mannequins are white. The child leans on the glass with her arms stretched out leering at her white counterparts on the other side only separated by the invisible, the glass. Through this photograph we feel the sense of separateness of black lives to white lives. A feeling I too had growing up in America, such poignant imagery.
tHOMAS j pRICE
I also happily stumbled upon British artist Thomas J Price’s sculpture “Moments Contained” (2022) at the Hauser & Wirth gallery booth. It was a small bronze sculpture of a black man tending to the hood on his sweatshirt while staring into the void.
I had always wanted to see this artist’s work irl, then to my amazement when I got the Unlimited space, I discovered Price’s monumental bronze sculpture which apparently sold for GBP 450,000!
This was really a sight to see, the sheer scale, 12 feet to be exact, of this work was impressive. Price's sculpture of a black woman dressed in everyday clothing serves as a counterpoint to what one would expect from a typical sculpture of this kind. Critiquing the idea of status and value within society, in other words who gets to be represented. Giving status to the black experience. It was truly touching, profound and resonated deeply with me.
See and hear more about the piece: Moments Contained. Find out more about this work in a short film produced by Hauser & Wirth: Watch now!
IG: thomasjprice / Web: www.thomasjprice.com
Artwork represented by: Hauser & Wirth gallery
Mickalene Thomas
This beautiful piece by American artist Mickalene Thomas who is based in New York City titled “NUS Exotiques #1” (2022), instantly drew me in with its bold mix of media: paint, photography, collage and rhinestones.
The work depicts a black woman with a look of longing elegantly lounging within an abstract space taking up the entire canvas.
I loved the scale, the color combinations, how the photography intersects with the paint, cutting up the negative space with hints of shadows tying it all together beautifully.
Thomas’ work analyzes the ways in which the complications of being black and female connect throughout what is considered to be most important and influential in Western culture.
IG: micklenethomas
Artwork represented by: LGDR Gallery
Nathaniel mARY qUINN
Chicago born American painter Nathaniel Mary Quinn’s work “Desert Storm” (2022) is definitely another piece which caught my eye! It is beautiful, grotesque and absolutely alluring all at the same time.
The artist used a mixture of oil paint, paint stick, oil pastel, soft pastel, black charcoal and gouache on linen canvas stretched over wood panel to achieve his works. Quinn says that he uses empathy and vulnerability when creating and I have to say this was certainly coming through very clearly as I stood there.
The flawless movement from one medium to another within the work revealed the tenderness and perhaps the pain revealed in the eyes of the subject. Brilliant! Quinn peers into and uses his past experiences and memories of the black experience in America as a vehicle for his work.
If you are interested in learning more about Quinn’s process, I recommend watching this remarkable short documentary produced by Gagosian: Watch now!
Artwork represented by: Almine Rech Gallery
Zandile Tshabalala
Finally, I was excited to see the work of South African Soweto born artist Zandile Tshabalala. I discovered this artist on Instagram and have been hooked ever since.
Tshabalala’s piece, My mother’s garden: Umcimbi I (A Gathering I), (2022) depicts a group of black men, women and children smiling and having what looks like a great time at a gathering. Her use of the white negative space contrasted against the rich darkness of the skin tones really make this piece a standout, I absolutely loved this painting!
Check out my feature, Artists I Love: Zandile Tshabalala in this quarter’s journal post, where I go more in depth on this emerging artist.
Artwork represented by: Galerie Nagel Draxler
Tell us about an art fair you have attended or tell us what you think of the artist’s work featured here in this post.
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You might also like this related article: ARTISTS I LOVE: ZANDIEL TSHABALALA
Ayanfe Olarinde: IN THE BEGINNING AND SO IT GOES...
Discover Ayanfe Olarinde's debut solo show "In The Beginning And So It Begins" in London where the artist offers up a bold, crisp and beautiful collection of works.
3 MIN READ
in the beginning and so it goes…
by Ayanfe Olarinde
JD Malat Gallery, London, 13 April – 6 May 2023
If you have been reading my journal then you know that I love the work of artist Ayanfe Olarinde. I wanted to fill you in on her debut solo in London titled In The Beginning And So It Goes… taking place at the JD Malat Gallery from 13 April until 6 May 2023. This show is an absolute must see if you happen to live or be in LDN.
Through this solo show Olarinde offers up a bold, crisp and beautiful collection of works. Tapping into and exploring the impacts of the material and folkloric worlds of the artist’s native Yoruba Nigerian culture. Olarinde intertwines the past and the present seamlessly throughout the exhibition achieving this through her multimedium approach using ink, acrylic, charcoal, wool and even coffee.
These works are investigating the human condition, touching on issues of identity, belonging, and tradition. For example, my favorite pieces in the show the triptych Aeroplani o’dabo I, II and III (the contentment song), 2023 depicts the protagonists balancing what seems to be the world but are only feather weight paper planes. Olarinde manages to evoke pain, longing and strength by way of only the regard of the protagonists, achieving this in such a subtle way. For me, it’s all in the eyes!
There is so much to uncover and discover within each thought-provoking piece.
Aeroplani o’dabo I (the contentment song), 2023
Ink, Acrylic, Oil pastel and Coffee on Canvas
Aeroplani o’dabo II (the contentment song), 2023
Ink, Acrylic, Oil pastel, Sticker Vinyl and Coffee on Canvas
Aeroplani o’dabo III (the contentment song), 2023
Ink, Acrylic, Oil pastel and Coffee on Canvas
My Grandmother, whenever she came visiting from the village, would gather my siblings around at specific times to tell us stories, many of which were accompanied by songs with plenty of meanings. This became a culture and a continuous ritual whenever she came around. – Ayanfe Olarinde.
Genesis, 2023, Ink, Acrylic, oil pastel and wool on canvas, image courtesy JD Malat gallery.
The hero piece, in my opinion, of the exhibition titled Genesis, 2023, instantly brought me back to my own Caribbean heritage. To a vague patchwork of memories of being in Haiti as a child and attending carnival. Women dancing to the tanbou drum, chickens in the back yard, the smell of woodfire and elders telling us tales. How these memories and stories still to this day have travelled through time, to the future. Somehow living on today through me and as evidence in this wonderful exhibition though Olarinde.
Do stop by the gallery and if not, you can check out the exhibition catalog here.
Fall in love with this artist’s works just as I have.
WHERE TO see THE Exhibiton
'In The Beginning And So It Goes…' by Ayanfe Olarinde
13 April – 6 May 2023
30 Davies Street, London W1K 4NB
Tell us what you think of Ayanfe Olarinde’s debut in London.
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You might also like this related article: ARTISTS I LOVE: AYANFE OLARINDE
I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER: MYKONOS
Spend a few days with me at the ultra exclusive Soho Roc Hours in Mykonos Greece.
4 MIN READ
MYKONOS
There’s nothing like the sunsets in the Greek islands! I recently made my fourth trip to one of my favorite Greek islands, Mykonos. This bustling pearl of an island is mostly known for its party scene, luxury settings, whitewashed houses, alleyways and chapels.
I’ve always gone there for the amazing party scene. Lounging on the day beds listening to sunset tunes by world renown DJs spinning at one of my favorite beach bar spots Scorpios. But this time around I wanted to experience the island in a different way. While I had every intention of having a quiet vacation, I ended up booking a hotel located smack dab in the middle of the action, between Paraga and Paradise beach, and within walking distance of Scorpios. But that didn’t stop me from getting some well-deserved R&R.
THE ROC HOUSE
I had been dying to stay at one of the exclusive gems of the Soho House chain, the Soho Roc House. This member’s only hotel is only 15 minutes away from the airport and sits in the heart of the Cycladic village by the Aegean Sea. Because it was the last week of the summer the property was serine and peaceful. The absolute antithesis of the season's high point.
I booked the medium size room which was tastefully decorated with a natural color scheme and handmade fabrics from the surrounding area which created an atmosphere of calmness. The room had a veranda with a garden view where every morning I had my favorite Greek yogurt and honey.
The scenery at this property is truly like in a film. The restaurant sits right next to a gorgeous saltwater infinity pool which overlooks the sea. I spent my days lounging, listening to my Tidal (Spotify) playlist and relishing the Mediterranean dishes at the pool. Pulled away only to have intermittent alfresco massages that melted away any stress that I had from my day-to-day.
At night I could hear the music from Scorpios which I did end up going to one evening but only to visit Caravana boutique located just at the entrance. Never missing a chance to pick up a one of their handcrafted pieces created in their workshop in Valladolid (Mexico). I absolutely love these pieces because they work and can be worn in any idyllic setting. Their ethos is tradition and sustainability, right up my alley!
“Each piece has meaning and purpose revealing magical and mysterious ways the wisdom of our ancestors. CARAVANA studies the ancient knowledge of the shamans and incorporates those concepts into all the pieces. The search for culture provides each garment with functionality, meaning, and magic.” – CARAVANA
The Roc House gets its name from the sounding rocks down by the sea. To get there you have to follow a rocky trail down the light-colored Grecian rocks to a wooden pontoon. The view is breathtaking.
If you want to stay here, you will need to purchase a Soho Friends membership. And remember that the house is closed annually between mid-October and mid-April.
WHAT I WORE
Fringe dress / Grey jumpsuit- CARAVANA LAND
Forest green printed top: SACAI
Skirt: ISABEL MARANT
Shoes: NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD
Bag, Belt and Cap: CELINE
Black Shades - SAINT LAUREN
Rose Shades - NATHALIE BLANC PARIS
Hat - MONROWE NYC
Hoop Earrings: CELINE
Jewelry - Family keepsakes
Tell us what you think of this destination or about an amazing sunset you’ve seen.
Join the conversation, share in the comments!
You might also like this related article: I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER: NEW YORK CITY