Wednesday, February 1, 2012

ELENA NANI & 'ARTISTIC WORK'


Elena Nani is an amazing photographer and talented artist whose paintings and sketches of people, faces and interesting places are filled with strong character and life. She captures intense human expressions on film and canvas and transforms her own emotions into the striking images. Not only does Elena put her heart and soul into the tips of her brushes and pencils, she has the uncanny ability to transform something rather mundane into an extraordinary image.



Here in an exclusive interview, Elena talks about her creative art, her inspirations and her distinctive style:



Can you tell me a little about your family background and how long you have been painting and sketching?

I grew up in a family of artists, and five of them were involved in some form of art. One of the members, (my uncle) was a self-taught painter and sculptor. From a very young age, I saw my sister (self-taught) to paint and I always admired the sketches she did. I remember myself, making sketches in secret because my parents thought I should be devoted to school. 
Painting
was for me a challenge, but also a form of expressing emotion as it was very difficult to be heard in an eight-member family.
I started out being interested in clothes designs, but with no real agenda at that time, I moved quickly on. However, I never stopped loving fashion.
As far as painting is concerned, I started promptly after an El Greco exhibition. It was a revelation for me to see his artwork up close. I was then 18, and I have never stopped painting and drawing since.

I know that you have studied philosophy and psychology. Do you think that they play a role in artistic expression?



Art is always a philosophical yield of psychological states. In my painting, where the main subject of the expression is the multi-dimensional man, I portray my emotions as a form of psychotherapy of my own soul.
 
Can you describe your process of creating a sketch or painting?

I can describe myself as a person of multiple stimuli. The "muse" is not enough for me; a strong feeling is also needed to start the movement of the brush.
That is “INSPIRATION” for me.

What is your favourite subject to draw or paint and why? Do you ever sketch from photos?

As I said the main subject of my work is man, but for aesthetic reasons I prefer sketching or painting women. I can express the feminine beauty, charm, grace, movement and a shape full of curves, very easily. I think it's easier, more familiar, and it is entirely my own need for the expression of femininity.
Although, I would prefer to always use artist’s models, unfortunately there is no such option. I paint from photos due to circumstances, but it is incomparable to the feeling that you have working with a human model.






Are you inspired by other artists or the ever-changing artistic influences, both past & present?

Αs I have already said, the painter who motivated me to paint was El Greco, then the Renaissance painters such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, also, the more recent, Caravaggio, Rembrandt and Dali.
But after nearly 7 years of attending painting classes, I eventually formed my own style. So, I can say that the last person who influenced me was my teacher Constantinos Tsigkris, who greatly formed my way of perceiving and displaying of objects.

How would you describe your own style of art?

I would describe it as free, pragmatic, and without limitations. Definitely a style that has its own character but also develpos only through the emotions of its creator.
You also enjoy photography. Tell me where you like to go and what kinds of things you like to catch on film.

I became interested in photography last year. My favorite subjects are always near the ocean, in trees or models on a catwalk. I like outdoor photography and fortunately, Athens has so many contradictions that are inexhaustible.
I have also photographed models, fashion shows and Barbie dolls with which I experiment. However, I would say that nature has proved to be a major attraction for me.
                                          Athens Xclusive Designers Week

Which of your exceptional talents; painting, drawing and photography, do you have more fun with?
Although all my talents are overlapping, I can say that I have more fun with photography, with which I feel the joy and excitement of a young child.

Finally, is any of your art work for sale for those people who admire your work?

Of course, my ultimate goal is to sell my work, but for now, I work personally with the primary purpose of enriching my collection.
RECOMMENDATION:

According to Pablo Picasso, "the artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scap of paper, from a passing shape, from a spider's web." Elena Nani, uses her deep sensitivity to capture and display a remarkable collection of magnificent images, either through the camera lens, on paper or on canvas. She explores the boundaries of everyday life with a fascinating artistic approach and then shares its beauty with the rest of the world.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ELENA NANI & HER "ARTISTIC WORK": GO TO HER FACEBOOK PROFILE.
















THE SPIRE BOAT - A MODEL OF PERFECTION

THE SPIRE BOAT - A MODEL OF PERFECTION








Super stylish, extremely luxurious and highly innovative, the SPIRE 4-seater lightweight speedboat takes boat design to the next level. Its futuristic revolutionary design is intended to evoke comparisons to the well-known comic vehicle the "Batmobile." However, this state-of-the-art open water craft is also perfectly fitting for the high-speed adventures of spy agent "007" in the James Bond movies.
It is powered by twin outboard engines producing between 250 to 300 hp and reaches speeds of 90 knots. At 9.5 meters in length, boasting a carbon composite and having a plush leather interior, it is much more than the average speedboat.
The prizewinning SPIRE BOAT, (vice world champion in the 2007 offshores) comes in two models, the classic and fully customized version (see below) and the second, remarkable transformation designed by the distinguished French fashion designer, Thierry Mugler.




 
 

In an exclusive interview, I spoke to Christophe Saducci, owner & founder of the SPIRE BOAT to find out more about this unique and most extraordinary speedboat:

Can you start by telling me about the SPIRE BOAT design and who or what inspired you to build it?

The SPIRE BOAT is inspired by offshore boating, where a combination of lines and speed are employed to have clean design and a breakable aero dynamism set.

Its unique design and breathtaking performance make it an exceptionally state-of-the-art craft. What makes the Spire so cutting edge?




The boat’s shape has an edgy lightweight design in order to reach high speed limits and achieve its outstanding performance.

What did you find the most challenging in designing this super powerboat?



Considerable challenges for this kind of boat was to design it to be capable of attaining breakneck speed, ensuring complete safety and guaranteeing security conditions with an adequate provision for crew comfort, having basic but comfortable accommodation and being able to reduce weight and maximize performance.

How many people worked on its production and how long did it take from the first stage until its completion?

This project started in June 2006, and its final design was released in September 2010, with multiple ads-on and changes that were brought about by our two naval architects. Therefore, it followed drastic design procedures and controls, throughout our R&D center. These, were carried out by experienced designers and technical staff whoall participated in producing the final concept, while always tending to reach for perfect buoyancy and on-water performance.

The SPIRE BOAT can reach speeds of 90 knots, is that correct and how does it compare to other powerboats in the terms of weight?


Yes, that’s correct. The maximum speed for this type of boat is 90 knots (105mph – 170Kph) while the sailing cruise is average of 60 knots (70 mph – 110kph). This was possible thanks to materials such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, coatings of fine films and glues usage – all manufactured through vacuum infusion which allows the rig to be lighter and stiffer than traditional yachts.

Where did you get the idea for its name?

The name SPIRE was an inspiration that came from « limit, extremities and direction ». Indeed, when the SPIRE BOAT is in motion, it could be compared to a bullet shot ripping through the ocean waves.

How do you see the development of the SPIRE BOAT when it comes to racing and what do you think its future will look like?

This model is final now. There will not no further structural modifications and it has also reached the ideal balance for hull and engineering.
As far as its future is concerned, it will soon be developed into a high-speed racing boat. It will have the cockpit weight increased with heavy seating assets which represent approximately 80 kilos and it will also be closed instead of having an open top in order to gain in velocity and improve safety.

There are two models, a basic one and another designed with the distinguished French fashion designer, Thierry Mugler. How did this partnership come about?


This exciting project was conceived at the Thierry Mugler Studio and then, the SPIRE BOAT staff met in November, 2010 at the Nautilus Boat Show in Cannes and then, in Monaco. The Mugler team immediately realized that both universes could be merged into one by having the MUGLER contemporary refinement and seducing design combined with the classic model of the SPIRE BOAT.
The teams met regularly and worked intensively, until we reached a common look-alike style pattern. Thereafter, we started to work on the project’s feasibility which required all participants to work and exchange collaboration for over 10 months.

How do you feel now after seeing the SPIRE BOAT completed? Do you have any other prototype boats in the pipeline?


Every time we look at our unique boat, the same overwhelming emotion surges over us as if we are seeing it for the very first time. I think just for a moment, time stands still, allowing us to admire its forms and lines once again.
We are also filled with great respect and admiration for this most powerful ‘beast’ that is capable of taking us safely and comfortably at extreme speeds across the oceans of the world.
As the design director, I put all my intense passion into its production and coupled with the success of the design by the Thierry Mugler Studio I believe that we have given new ideas and influenced other boating and business markets. I also hope that other well-known fashion brands or famous designers will seriously consider following in Thierry Mugler’s footsteps by instilling their own distinctive style in the SPIRE BOAT.


Finally, how much would it cost to own one of these impressive speedboats?

Well, the price of the classic model is €220.000 (full with engines) excluding taxes and without options. The SPIRE BOAT by Thierry Mugler costs €400.000(full with engines) excluding taxes, but without the boat cover which is an option. I would also add that the hull is guaranteed.


RECOMMENDATION:

When Aldous Huxley, an English novelist (1894-1963) said that, "Speed provides the one genuinely modern pleasure, he was ahead of his time unless he was foretelling the future and describing the SPIRE BOAT. This innovative, spectacular speedboat allows some small indulgence in the world of boating. It is a model of perfection and a great creation of our time.



FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SPIRE BOAT: www.spireboat.com &
www.spireboat.mugler.com


PERICLES KONDYLATOS ART

PERICLES KONDYLATOS ART



Everything about artist, scene director, photographer and jewelry designer Pericles Kondylatos is unique, mysterious and sensual. He is a master of the bizarre and conceptually imaginative. Using a combination of ingenious techniques and distinctive styles, he manages to convey his intriguing thoughts and emotions through extraordinary surreal works of art.
Pericles Kondylatos, although known for his sinister, artistic darker side, has also created some of the finest, most beautiful collections of handmade jewelry. He is without question, a dark chivalrous knight pledging his alliance to his own creative soul, taking us with him below the surface of everyday reality.

Here in a remarkable interview, this immensely talented artist talks about his sources of inspiration and how he develops his stunning masterpieces:



First, can you tell me one or two things about yourself and in particular, Pericles Kondylatos Art?

I am an artist who works and lives in Greece, I love music and animals. I began painting almost since the beginning of my life and I haven’t stopped since then.

Who or what inspired you to become an artist and how did you get started in jewellery designing?

Generally I am inspired by the beauty of nature, but there isn’t anything specific, because I am in an “inspiration mode” all the time. Jewelry design came as naturally as painting or as creating a sculpture did, it just happens, there isn’t a more specific reason. It was the next thing let’s say, as I have tried everything.
I can create art: painting, sculpture, photography, video art…. An artist must be involved in everything if he is truly dedicated to expressing himself. There must be no limits in creation, because in the supernal worlds where creativity exists there are no limits.

How would you describe your art and the kind of jewelry you create? Are there certain types of materials you prefer to work with?

I describe them as works of art for the body and this is how I perceive them. I prefer to work with “unexpected” materials, things that you would not normally expect to see in jewelry. Because I like breaking boundaries with my art, in the same manner I choose my materials: I go around my studio and think: What is the most unusual thing in here?

In a few words, describe your own personal style.

For my personal style I am an extremist: I like black, old fashioned suits, black hats, black shades. I like the color black in general…


What is a typical day like for you and what keeps you inspired and motivated?

A typical day is a creative day at my studio, where I spend almost all of my hours. This is it basically. I don’t do anything else. It inspires me a lot to walk around trees and be close to nature. I like to be in the wilderness and amongst the wildlife.

What do you love most about designing and creating works of art?

That I have the ability to express what is inside of me, without having someone to express it to. A work of art is being created and then it’s a constant expression to the universe.

"The Burial Treasure Collection", is extremely breathtaking and beautiful. Where did the inspiration come from?

Thank you. I had to design jewelry for the Vassilis Zoulias collection – which was a great success – and the collection was created together with the design and organization of the show. I was in Vassilis's atelier during the daytime with Nicolas Georgiou, with whom I had an excellent collaboration. We looked at the clothes, and then I presented him with ideas which helped him decide on what he wanted. Then, I went to my studio and worked all night long and then again in the morning. It was a very creative process, deciding what was in and what was not.

Are there any artists who have profoundly impacted your life?

Of course there are, but unfortunately they are all dead. I love Mozart, Tchaikovsky, ..there are so many.

Share with me how you view your art and jewelry design in the future.

I want to create exceptionally beautiful things, inspire people, and offer through art, beauty in their lives. There isn’t a greater art, than the art of loving people.

What other plans do you have for 2012?

I want to set up a small museum for old damaged dolls and toys, but nothing is certain yet, we are looking for a place at the moment. I have a huge collection of old toys and I am trying to find them a home. We shall see…………..

RECOMMENDATION:


Pericles S. Kondylatos Art knows no boundaries, simply because the man behind these beautiful creations, may it be complex paintings, mystical photos or precious jewelry, puts all his intense passion and artistic insight into producing the highest level of craftsmanship. His dedication to creating art and willingness to share it with others, makes him a self-styled magician.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PERICLES S. KONDYLATOS: www.myspace.com/kondylatos


CARLO TROTTA & HIS COMPANY "MOOOH!!"

CARLO TROTTA & HIS COMPANY "MOOOH!!"

Wear as earrings or as a pendant


"Moooh!!" is an up-market luxury shopping website with a difference. It's not just a place to find stylish custom made goods, it's also an excellent site for networking and ample business opportunities. Apart from offering everything from exquisite jewelry, elegant apparels, fashion accessories to chic home decor, "Moooh!!" encourages people to participate in reward programs and activities, even offering consumers the chance to become affiliates. There are regular special offers and a variety of E-gift cards to choose from, all at your fingertips. "Moooh!!" is more than an online site for shopping, it's an exciting unique experience where you can browse through pages of high-quality products at your own leisure and become involved in something new and innovative.



Carlo Trotto is an independent Italian jewelry designer, fashion maker and luxury brands lover. Although he is not connected to any particular luxury brand and doesn’t follow established trends, he tries to create beautiful items and shares them and his business on "Moooh!!"
Here, Carlo talks about the idea behind this luxury website and what he is hoping to achieve:

Carlo, can you tell us a little about yourself and your roots?

I was born in a small city in South of Italy, a place lacking of opportunities for people without any “important friends” or without any “friends in politics.” It is almost impossible to create, and have a business there, especially if you come from a poor family. I was still a teenager when I promised myself that I must run away from that reality.

You moved from Italy to China many years ago. What brought on that decision and how difficult was it to settle down in a country with so many cultural differences?

In the South of Italy, there are no opportunities to create and develop a business, the global environment conditions and infrastructures are really poor. It was not really difficult to find a place better than Italy to develop a business. I never fear cultural differences. I believe that differences are a chance to improve ourselves, a chance to have a better view of the world and new cultures.
In China, Guangzhou, I found the best place possible to develop a business considering the labor quality and the presence of many small laboratories and factories that help to develop the entire production process of a product. This is impossible to find in the South of Italy, maybe even in Italy, except if you produce large quantities of a product.

Apart from being a jewelry designer, fashion creator and luxury brands expert, you are also the man behind “Moooh!!” Can you explain the idea behind it and where the inspiration came from?


The idea behind “Moooh!”! is very simple and easy. “Moooh!!”

“Moooh!!” is not the sound of a cow, but a dialect form of its hometown language, Bari, a language that is a creative blend of Latin, Greek, Turkish, French, English. “Moooh!!” It may cause a major shake-up in the luxury market, or even for the word “luxury” itself. The word “Moooh!!” means surprise, stupor, the unexpected that happens, something never seen before, never heard because it has never been disclosed yet. Everything new, surprising, uncommon, beautiful and positive can be expressed with just one word – “Moooh!!”
You can say “Moooh!!” when you see a beautiful piece of jewelry at a very competitive price, you can say “Moooh!!” anytime you engage in one of the sweepstakes on “Moooh!!’ or when you read a blog post and discover that many luxury brands produced in China, prefer to hide the origin of their products because they cannot justify the expensive prices of the goods they sell. I think that this practice is not an ethic way to conduct a business, especially if you have a worldwide recognition.

“Moooh” is making valuable the phrase “Made in China”, it lets people know that luxury can be produced in China and that luxury doesn’t always have to be expensive.
Overall, there are many reasons to say “Moooh!!” just browse
www.moooh.net and you will understand.

I understand that you encourage people to get involved with you on “Moooh!!” Can people actually make money from this?

Yes, “Moooh!!” can help in many ways to save and make money. People can make money joining our Fashion Affiliate program (www.moooh.net/pages/fashion-affiliate) and get from 10 to 25% commission, selling the items featured on “Moooh!!” I think this is the highest percentage for affiliation programs that promote jewelry and other products.
Wholesalers and small businesses can enjoy very interesting discounts on our custom made products. Furthermore, we are also a big sourcing opportunity in China, for fashionable and home decor items. Small stores and retailers that want to produce high quality items at factory price can contact us for their fashion and home decor requirements.
Keeping in mind my goal, I started to look for something useful, free, to study and learn, useful for my future working life and to help me someday to run a business. I studied programming when the first personal computers came out in 1985, I believed that the PC could be the future; in fact I was not wrong. Then, I was selected to study on free marketing and communication courses. In 1990, I was selected to be part of a free course for young entrepreneurs financed by the European community and finally, in 1991, I was backed by a small investor and ran my first company.
Later, in 1994, I traveled to Senegal on a business trip and then spent 8 years in West Africa where I was trading in rough diamonds. During that time, jewelry and stones became the object of my passion. So, I actually started to design and love jewelry without any background.
In the beginning, I read and flicked through jewelry catalogs and I fell in love with the idea of designing my own pieces. I thought it was perfect to develop my creativity and combine working with different natural materials, stones and metals. I take the inspiration from the color of the stones and I love to combine them.

Let's talk about your collections. What materials are you on the lookout for when traveling and do you have any environmental considerations when designing a piece?

I love to “study” the local designs, especially artistic custom make pieces and get inspiration from it. I’m interested in everything beautiful, different and truly ethnic. I think there’s not a better place than China to get inspiration, considering the large number of minorities and each minority has its own traditions and “personal” artistic products, from jewelry, clothing and home decor. A silver or brass ethnic jewel, a pair of shoes, a lantern, anything can attract my attention. When I look at a particular piece, I think globally, how I can modify that piece, which kind of materials I can use to recreate that produce, how I can make it appealing for a wider market, the latter are proper marketing considerations.
Materials are usually silver, brass, Gobi jade, local agate, Shandong sapphire, woods and many others, not only for jewelry.
I love to “study” the local designs, especially artistic custom make pieces and get inspiration from it. I’m interested in everything beautiful, different and truly ethnic. I think there’s not a better place than China to get inspiration, considering the large number of minorities and each minority has its own traditions and “personal” artistic products, from jewelry, clothing and home decor.
A silver or brass ethnic jewel, a pair of shoes, a lantern, anything can attract my attention. When I look at a particular piece, I think globally, how I can modify that piece, which kind of materials I can use to recreate that produce, how I can make it appealing for a wider market, the latter are proper marketing considerations. Materials are usually silver, brass, Gobi jade, local agate, Shandong sapphire, woods and many others, not only for jewelry.

What exactly is a luxury brands expert and what makes Luxury a special field in marketing?

A brand expert must love fashion or generally beautiful things and products not necessary related to fashion. A Brand expert doesn’t have to only promote and advertise a brand or blog positively during a fashion week, just like many bloggers do. I think this is talking about nothing, just nonsense. This is just a different and free way for the brands to be promoted. I have a totally different concept of a brand luxury expert, maybe too personal.
As a brand expert, I prefer to “discover” what a brand likes to say and what it doesn’t like to say, one of the things that a brand doesn’t like to say is for example that they have been produced in China. This is not an ethic way to conduct a business, especially if you are famous and have a worldwide recognition.

What do you predict will be the most desired luxury brands in China this year?

I’m quite sure that nothing will change in the Chinese market for luxury brands. Many brands will try to enter into the market and many will fail, just a few will be successful and the same brands, already famous for many years, will still be the favorite of the Chinese people. Vuitton , Gucci, Chanel in the top places. The reason is simple, Chinese people have a typical Chinese concept of luxury, often luxury must be useful and for everyday use. My opinion is that there’s a great deal of attention from the luxury Chinese consumer on custom-made fashion, personalized and truly unique.

How do you think the recent economic crisis has affected the luxury industry? Is it still possible to develop luxury markets?

The economic crisis will not affect the luxury brand’s industry, people who have money and love luxury brands will always buy luxury brands. Furthermore, thanks to the Chinese market, famous luxury brands can gain market quotas and recover where the market is already mature.
Instead, I can see the development of a new social luxury concept. Small and unknown brands can think better of leveraging their social media presence and make it one of their primary marketing elements. This is what I’m doing and it works.


Do you believe the internet is of benefit to brand manufacturers as a way of reaching an elite global audience?

Definitely yes, the Internet and especially social media can help small brands to develop faster and develop their audience exponentially. Already “social luxury” websites like “Fashionstake”, nowadays purchased by “Fab”, help designers and small luxury brands to reach a wider audience. I’m sure this trend will grow this year and in future years. Once again, thanks to the social media, I wouldn’t make my brands just for the “elite”, instead, I would prefer to create “elite items” and promote them for a wide target of people that love beautiful and fashionable things, but cannot have access because of the expensive prices. This is “Moooh!!’s” mission, creating, hand picking, beautiful “elite” pieces and “selling” them social for many people and not just for the elite.


RECOMMENDATION:
''Moooh!!" is an exceptional up-market website offering consumers a great deal in the way of luxury shopping and other business opportunities. Just like taking an elevator and stopping on all the floors in a high-street department store, "Moooh!! takes its visitors to the the site, on an exciting journey through its pages. This unique website and blog is the key to social shopping in the future and Carlo Trotto will enjoy sharing his expertise and designs, including his custom-made jewelry (www.moooh.net/collections/carlo-trotta) with all its members.

"TO STEKI'' - TOLO ARGOLIDA

"TO STEKI'' - TOLO ARGOLIDA



Dining at "The Steki" restaurant in Tolo, a picturesque fishing village on the Peloponnese peninsula is an unforgettable experience. Not only does it offer delicious Greek dishes prepared with fresh local produce, but it is also located on a golden sandy beach overlooking the two small islands of Koronis and Romvi. It is a favourite meeting place for locals and visitors from the surrounding regions and it is well-known for its friendly relaxed atmosphere and its traditional village charm.


To Steki, a family run taverna, is open throughout the year and becomes alive with seasonal tourists during the hot summer months, sampling not only the local Greek delicacies and fine house wine, but also the warm hospitality of the owners, Evangelos Orfanos and his wife Anna Helioti. The meals, including a variety of fresh fish, grilled meats, crisp salads and tasty appetizers are often accompanied by live music and dancing. It's also a perfect location to dine during the day and admire the spectacular sunsets early evening.



To find out more about this quaint village restaurant, I spoke to Evangelos Orfanos, the owner, to learn about its history and why it is such a popular place to eat:


Can you tell me something about yourself, your family and the history of "To Steki"?


Well, my name is Vangelis and I was born and raised here in Tolo. I run the taverna with my wife, Anna Helioti who was also born here. We have two daughters Zoe, 18 & Joanna, 17 years old and we have been running "TO STEKI", the meeting point as we like to call it since 1986.


What kinds of dishes are on the menu and which three would you recommend diners to order on their first visit to the restaurant?


There are a variety of dishes on the daily menu, everything from fresh fish, grilled meats and of course, many of the local and regional Greek specialties, such as mousaka and Lamb Kleftiko or Juvetsi with noodles fresh calamari etc.
I would highly recommend diners try the prawn saganaki , the pork with leaks and feta cheese, and our seafood dishes and fish soup.


Has the menu changed a lot over the years and has the present crisis affected what meals are offered?


The menu has to be changed now and again because there are a lot of people who keep coming back. It makes sense to offer them new dishes so they can sample new foods as well as their favourite meals. The present crisis has in a small way affected what meals are offered because of the rising cost of produce. However, we do still try to keep to the menu people recognise and serve the dishes that they enjoy.


I have heard that you get many of the locals popping in to eat?


Yes, I'm pleased to say that we have built up a long list of regulars over the years from Tolo and the neighbouring towns and villages. It is a great compliment to see people come back time and time again and to sit at a table and chat with them.


What can visitors to "To Steki" expect in the way of entertainment?


Well, three times a week, there is live Greek music and dancing with the locals. It's very entertaining and of course, the musicians sing old, traditional Greek songs which creates a warm and cozy atmosphere.


What do you think sets the restaurant apart from its competitors?


Certainly, our traditional Greek recipes, as they come from Crete, from our Great grandparents.
Also, starting this restaurant with my parents and having all the cooking done by my mother Zoe meant that, we learnt authentic homemade Hellenic dishes from her. Today, my wife Anna and I try to keep the menus as they were then; full of wonderful tasty dishes. We also have some fine Greek wines, including the famous Retsina.
Finally, I believe that the live Greek music is also an important factor. I sometimes play music with friends, and guests of the restaurant are always welcome to join in. Remember, we are only a few feet from the sea, so it is a beautiful setting for an evening of dining and music.


How would you describe "To Steki" in your own words?


A friendly meeting point, a place where you can make new friends, Greek nights with lots of fun, excellent wholesome cuisine and a superb first-rate service.


What are your plans for the restaurant in 2012?


No huge plans. I would just like to see the same faces at my tables and welcome new ones. I believe 2012 will be a difficult year for all of us, so I hope that we will manage to ride the storm until better times are upon us again.


As a restaurant owner, how important is it to have actual experience in every aspect of the business, as you have?


It is very important to learn from our experiences and to be able to be professional in every aspect of running a restaurant. I have enjoyed being a part of the whole business and I now feel highly efficient in everything I do.


Finally, Can you describe Tolo in a few words and say why it is worth a visit?


First of all, Tolo is an excellent choice for a summer holiday. It is surrounded by the ancient sites at Asine, Epidavrus, islands like Hydra and Spetses etc. There are also plenty of nice hotels, rooms & apartments, fine restaurants, bars, cafes and of course there is the fantastic beach of Tolo which sprawls along the front of this old fishing village coupled with the open sea with its clear, blue sparkling waters.


RECOMMENDATION:

Perhaps it is the idyllic setting combined with the variety of appetizing home-cooked meals which makes this village restaurant a delightful place to eat. Its quiet and peaceful ambiance during the day and its lively atmosphere at night provides an excellent dining option for those who are in this part of the world. Whether visiting Tolo on holiday or just passing through on a day trip, "To Steki", is a friendly reasonably priced taverna, waiting to welcome and offer its visitors the best in local Greek food.








TASOS LAZAR & POSH FASHION

TASOS LAZAR & POSH FASHION



FEED YOUR PASSION WITH POSHFASHION

For those who are fashion conscious and looking for something more than just a collection of glossy photographs on a chic blog, PoshFashion provides everything possibly related to the fashion industry and much much more. From high-fashion editorials, news and updates on current trends in various apparel markets to valuable shopping advice and positive consumer recommendations, PoshFashion keeps nothing under wraps. Daily postings allow visitors to follow new happenings in the fashion world and to take a peep behind the scenes. There are intriguing backstage photos, exciting promotions, exclusive interviews, catwalk videos and show casings of innovative artists and designers, nothing escapes PoshFashion.


Here in an exclusive interview, Tasos Lazaridis, founder and editor-in-chic at PoshFashion talks openly about the popular trendy blog and his passion for fashion.


Can you tell me a little about yourself and what or who got you interested in fashion?


My name is Tasos and I have a bachelor's and master's degree in Classical Studies. Now I am doing my PHD in Medieval Culture and Byzantine Art. How does this relate to fashion? Well, I believe that fashion is a part of art and vice versa. But to tell you the truth, my fashion interest comes from my parents who were both collaborating with Sonia Rykiel and Tierry Mugler in their sport and casual lines. I guess I got my passion from them.


What is your fashion background and what does your job entail?


My job on PoshFashion isn't all glitz and glam. I spend a great number of hours making contacts, sending out emails and catching up on telephone calls. There's also lots of research, editing posts and sometimes working though the night. I read hundreds of books on fashion, travel to fashion shows and meetings and there's also a great deal of follow-up work to be done. In recent months, I seem to be sleeping a lot less.


Let's hear a little more about 'PoshFashionnews' and the people behind it.


I started PoshFashion one year ago in order to blog about fashion, art and brands not only in Greece but globally. I started attending shows and events and writing down my thoughts. Then I started making contacts with PR offices that were sending me press releases, invitations etc. So, day by day, PoshFashion was growing.
When I first started, Emmanouil Kallidiou, a young talented artist and painter, helped me a great deal with the design of the blog, some very interesting posts and the logo for PoshFashion. Even now, he still helps me mentally and I always take his advice. There was also Antonis Pr. who supported me a lot from the very beginning (I even started PoshFashion on his nameday!), but now, unfortunately, he is far away.
Apart from Emmanouil and Antonis, there were also some interns who were helping me with all this work during the old days, but now I am collaborating with Vassilis Andreou, who is responsible for all the marketing and financial work and also helps me as an assistant at the shows etc.
Finally, the PoshFashion office has a part time secretary, Helen Argyros, who keeps all the emails and the contacts updated, and a Twitter intern, Panos Fragos, who keeps the PoshFashion fans' account. I believe in team work obviously!


What were some of your most popular posts in 2011?


My most popular posts were a long article about the history of the Louis Vuitton house, and my featured article in British Vogue April 2011, when I had the honor to pose a question during the interview with Dolce & Gabbana! I met them during the last Milan Fashion Week and they were so friendly and down to earth, especially Stefano, we even took some pictures together and had a little fashion chat!


Would you say that you live, eat and breathe fashion?


I totally cannot live without fashion, but I also love other things too that can be combined with fashion: art, culture, philosophy and language. For example, when I travel for a fashion week, I will attend the show, but I will also go to a museum or an art exhibition. Moreover, I read a lot; books, papers, articles, posts, more than two hours per day. I strongly believe in education above all.


What do you enjoy most about your job? You said that you get to travel a lot.


For me, fashion gives me so much fun, it's not only business. I love going out to events and meeting my fashion people and friends. We talk, we laugh, we drink and generally I totally enjoy these moments. I have started recently to travel for the international fashion weeks, London, Milan and Paris, and my biggest dream is to attend the New York fashion week. For me, blogging didn't start out as a job, but as my hobby. However, now PoshFashion has taken off in a big way and is more professional somehow, rather than "just a blog".


Who are your style icons and favourite designers?


In Greece, I love the style of Anna Vissi, from fashion bloggers, I admire BryanBoy, from editors, Anna Wintour and from fashion designers, Galliano, Jean Paul Gauliter, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and Marc Jacobs, from couture houses Dior, Givenchy and Chanel.


What is your favourite trend for spring/summer 2012?


I don't follow trends, I just wear what I like and what best describes my personality and my mood. I believe in personal style, not fashion trends.


What advice would you give to aspiring fashion editors?


I would advice them to dare to create new things and promote new talented designers. My favorite motto is "head down, work up".


And finally, what would fashionists be surprised to know about you?


I wear athletic clothes indoors, (posh of course), I sleep a maximum 5 hours, I used to smoke, but I have now quit, I have been on many calorie-controlled diets and I have recently lost 10 kilos.


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The PoshFashion blog is dedicated to bringing you everything on cutting-edge fashion, personal style and lifestyle culture news. It's a brilliant insider's look at the fashion industry, from stylish designer's collections to urban culture too. This perfect showcase on all the latest designs and bold new looks is without doubt, a blogger's fashion paradise.


For more information on PoshFashion: www.poshfashionnews.com