Living Barbados Magazine November 2014 Edition

Foyer at a private residence, Sandy Cove, St. Jamesthe 1700s, we can only conclude it was named for the early Archer eye for truly unrivalled pieces, are always going to great lengths tobloodline – spirited whaler merchants residing in Speightstown. The please their clients and strive to keep the store’s wow factor as highceiling beams were drawn from the hulls of ships, numbered and as its reputation dictates.notched as though counting the years spent roaming the sea. Thoughthe building carries whispers of centuries old life, the store is buzz- Though any weekday is a good time to pop in, there’s no bettering with freshness. “It’s definitely authentic.” Terri says. “We have time than Christmas, when the store is lit up, packed with uniqueeverything from modern Italian sofas to hurricane wall lights that ornaments and you can shop with the warm, fuzzy feeling of theare absolutely one of a kind.” Go in looking for a single lamp, and holidays in your heart. Apart from the shiny glam that is Archer’syou’ll leave armed with scented candles, millions of ideas and seri- Hall Design Centre, there is of course the elbow grease that goes inous couch envy. to bringing clients exactly what they want. I shouldn’t even mention their dare to dream ‘resource room’. It’s Monique judges some of their early success based on their verychoc-a-bloc with fabrics and finishes that will make craft lovers and good relationship with many top developers. “Our first big projectchic geeks think they floated up to design heaven. (Newsflash, Ar- was when we furnished 22 villas at Royal Westmorland and, for acher’s Hall is design heaven). You could spend so long poring over young company to prove that we could furnish multiple high-endpatterns and touching textures you’ll forget your earthly name and villas at one time, gave developers a lot of confidence in our abilitynature. “As buyers we look for things that we know someone will and cemented our relationship with them. This then resulted in uslove. Our clients are diverse.” Terri says. The Archers, with their keen securing projects to furnish show homes in Schooner Bay, Port St. Charles and Sandy Cove showing that we could deliver a consis- LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 51

tently high design product.” There’s no doubt these ladies truly shone can meet. But of course, the style of space they create is dependent onduring this baptism of fire and now starting their second decade, they the feeling a homeowner wants to convey, the design of the architec-clearly came out thirsty for more. Though they’ve paired up for count- ture that is being built and how the landscape and surroundings “speak”less projects including homes on private islands, rooms of every taste to Terri when she does her initial conceptualization.and temperament, and most recently for Port Ferdinand and the lovelyBonita Bay development, they are stoked with intensity that keeps their The design service and the retail store are two quite different babies,burners on high. but they both require almost unrelenting attention from Terri and Mo- nique. To unwind from their busy schedules, Terri surfs to stay in shape Archer’s Hall Design Centre delivers a full design service where home- and practices yoga to stay mentally sharp. Monique, on the other hand,owners or architects can bring floor plans to start projects from the hangs out with her horses. She’s an avid show jumper, the Presidentground up. They synergize with everyone on the construction team in- of the Barbados Equestrian Association and founder of the H.O.R.S.E.cluding plumbers, joiners or masons from conception plans to the cur- charity.tain drop. “The most rewarding aspect is when owners come in and they Monique and Terri Archer may appear on the surface to be yin and yan,are completely, “Wowed,” Terri enthuses with a charming Texan drawl. but scratch the surface and you’ll see the pair have quite a lot in com-“Often clients won’t have seen the progress of a property until it’s time mon. When asked what is the most important thing in their personalfor the final handover so it’s really satisfying to see their reactions. We lives, they both answer without hesitation - Family.go far and wide to stay ahead of the game and aim to design projectsunlike any other.” According to Terri, they are constantly hoppin’ to Bath tub at Ginger Lilymeet deadlines and deliver exactly as they promised. They work withhigh profile clients that request that privacy and discretion are a keypart of the relationship so its all hands on deck from beginning to end. If you’ll browse their portfolio you’ll notice they cater to several styles.The Traditional Style, which is what you’d consider authentically WestIndian, a plantation style with English influence rife with mahoganyfinishes, creams, whites, olives, maybe some neutrals thrown in, withbrass finishes to really give it that old world feel. Then there is the Transitional style, a popular, more modern tasteof the Caribbean with cool, comfortable aquas, sea glass greens withsplashes of silvers, whites and golds with bronze, brass and mahoganyfinishes to create a fine tuned balance. It’s not abstract nor is it so statelyas the Traditional, it’s simply namaste. Finally, they can create a more earthy Tropical Modern style with itsBrazilian or Italian influences, where emphasis is on minimalism withstriking art and essential pieces, open spaces where form and function52 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 Master bedroom at Ginger Lily

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Kelly Gibson is the owner of The Frame & Art Co. and her friendly manner and knowledge of framing is guaranteed to make your framing experience enjoyable. Photography by Stephanie KnaggsQ Why should i custom frame? Q How to choose the right design? What is conservation/A One of the best reasons to custom A The first thing you will want to do Q preservation framing? frame your personal and well- is bring your artwork or memorabilia When you frame an originalloved works of art is that a professional into our store to discuss your framing tastespicture framer has the skills and mate- and needs with one of our design special- A piece of art, everything thatrials necessary to protect, preserve and ists. With over 2,500 custom frame choices,enhance the things you care about and 500 mat colors/textures and over a dozen is done to it should be reversible.want to showcase in a way that reflects types of glazing options the possibilities are This means that anything that ad-your unique sense of style. endless. However, the best framing designs heres to the art should be able toAdditionally, a professional framer has a are created based on a conversation about be removed without leaving a tracewell trained eye for choosing the right your tastes, the intended hanging location, of its contact. In addition, all mate-frame and mat to bring out the beauty of and what it is that you are having framed. rials (mat board, backing, hinges,your art. By using well practiced guide- From here, we will be able to ensure that tape, etc.) should be completelylines a framer can produce a beautiful, the design is customized for your piece in pH-neutral and acid-free. Finally,well-balanced framing presentation that regards to style, aesthetics, and budget. To the glazing should filter at leastenhances the work of art without over- ensure design satisfaction, we offer a thirty 95% of UV rays to prevent the fad-powering it. ing of your art. Once original art day Design Guarantee has faded from poor UV protection on all custom fram- or yellowed from the acidic con- ing, so if you get your tent found in inferior materials, the piece home and are piece is permanently damaged. not thrilled with the design, return it with- Q Do you sell artwork? in 30 days, and we A Yes, The Frame & Art Co. will replace it using equal value materials, supports locally inspired for FREE. artists by housing a small art gallery within our store, in which we host artist receptions several times a year.Art by Cathy Alkins LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 55

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Photos by Julie Chalbaud Makeup by Brittany Teluja Shot at Limegrove Lifestyle Centre is a proud sponsor of Honey Jam and Honey Jazz Barbados2014/15. The obvious synergies between golden voices and exquisite jewelry made itnatural for us to invite three of the Honey Jam girls to model three of Diamonds Internationalsmost sought after brands; Cartier, Chopard and John Hardy.Gigi Ma’at A petite lady with enormous talent, who favours an eclectic mix of music and can usually be seen performing in Honey Jazz. Gigi is wearing Chopard Happy Diamonds and Chopardissimo Collections. LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 59

Angelica Neira Anderson Known to all as Neira, her delicate features belie a powerful voice in alternative pop and reggae. Neira is wearing jewelry by Cartier: Lobi Panther Ring, Panther Masai Bracelet and Panther Necklace.60 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015

Nikita Karma Warrington This sassy blonde loves Hip Hop with influences by Bob Marley, Eminem and Pink. Known as Karma, she is wearing the Naga collection from John Hardy available at Diamonds International. LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 61

HONEYS W E E T L JI KAE M HONEY JAM AND HONEY JAZZ PHOTOS BY AMLEYA CLARKEF or those of you who may not be familiar with the Last year recording artists Vita Chambers and Shontelle Layne flew origins of Honey Jam, it was founded in Canada in 1995 in for the workshop and concert, even joining the artists on stage during by Barbadian Ebonnie Rowe as an all female, multi- the freestyle finale! Sweeter than ever this year, Honey Jam grows fromcultural, multi-genre developmental programme for young strength to strength and the announcement of the 2014 Ladies of Honeywomen interested in pursuing careers in the music industry. Jam was revealed in October to an eager fan base.The objectives were for the artists to gain exposure and benefit As one of the shows sponsors, Diamonds International has beenfrom mentoring, education and networking opportunities. a devoted supporter of these talented ladies. Managing Director ofInternationally recognized sensation Nelly Furtado is a Honey Jam Diamonds International Michal Hassid had this to say, “It is a privilegeCanada alum! for Diamonds International to be a part of the Honey Jam programme The Honey Jam concept was introduced to Barbados in Feb- again this year. It is a great platform for young, talented women toruary 2011 to rave reviews and has been a popular annual event gain exposure, education, mentoring and networking opportunities inever since. Every year the programme starts with a launch, at- the music industry and truly inspiring to see them later excelling intended by sponsors, judges, media and of course the aspiring other productions both in Barbados as well as overseas.” Indeed lastartists and which outlines plans for the HalilkooennemeysuJosauimcnt,dotshteshnweaeemeatre,. year one of the Honey Jam singers Lynetteupcoming season. This is followed by “Avion” Lynch was invited to join the cast andthe auditions where judges from with- perform onstage in the Broadway to Barbadosin the music industry choose the artists production. This was an amazing opportunitywho will appear in the lineup. and the first time a local singer had joined The artists also go through a series the cast of this prestigious production.of workshops. International celebrity Show Producer Ebonnie Rowe is excitedvocal coach Elaine Overholt is flown in to train the local artists about what the future holds for Honey Jam and for the artists; “I amin an all day workshop, and successful songwriters and experts always blown away by the talent of the young artists we have in Barbadosin copyright, publishing and music industry share their tips and and I can’t wait to see their careers blossom. Nothing is overnight soadvice, providing valuable information about their career path. they have a lot of hard work ahead of them, and we will be cheering The culmination of the series of events is the big concert which them on all the way!” The much-anticipated Honey Jam Barbadosfeatures all young local female artists Kristen Walker on stage with other performers Concert 2014 was held at the Frank Collymore Nov 2013in a variety of genres including country, Hall on 8th November. Hosted by Alex Jordan,opera, alternative, folk, rnb, hip hop fans were treated to stellar live performancesrock, reggae, spoken word, jazz, gospel and an amazing live band followed by a livelyetc. An offshoot called Honey Jazz is after-party. If you missed it, some of thesealso produced and takes place annually same artists will also be part of the lineup forat the Frank Collymore Hall. the Honey Jazz concert coming up January 24 Gigi Ma’at in action also at Frank Collymore Hall. at Honey Jazz Jan 2014 Freestyle finale at Honey Jam Nov 2013 Left to right: Honey Jam founder Ebonnie Rowe, Michal Hassid of Diamonds International and Lynette “Avion” Lynch Photo by Studio Studio62 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015

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UNPROCESSED STAYING STREAMLINED AHEAD MAC PRODUCTS USED AT KENZO FASHION SHOW OF THE TRENDS MAC AUTUMN/WINTER 2014 TRENDS PRESENTATION CARIBBEAN PUBLISHERS GISEL CAVILLO & MAC COSMETICS STAFF DEMONSTRATES A TREND66 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015

B right lights welcomed Living Barbados Magazine to Miami OFF COLOUR for the Autumn/Winter Trend Presentation 2014 by M.A.C Cosmetics. The event kicked off at the chic and trendy 1826 Restaurant & Lounge with a reception and dinner. Thefollowing morning the A/W Trends 2014 presentation took place inan edgy, industrial style art gallery where Director of Travel RetailAmericas for M.A.C, Mr Panos Argyros opened the event and welcomedguests. Film footage showcasing M.A.C makeup looks from the latestfashion catwalks was followed by a demonstration by Senior MakeupArtist Gisel Calvillo. ‘Beauty is the new Individuality’ was the catch phrase, finding thestrength in a person’s features is highlighted and the true person isrevealed making a lady look like the most perfect version of her self.Innocent beauty is revealed through the details, which look simple andeffortless, yet effective. Eyeliner is making a statement this season with shocks of colour onthe waterline framing the face and ‘chunky’ lashes on the outer edgeof the eye. On the runway metallics were applied as embellishments,like jewelry for the face. The four trends for this season are: OFF COLOUR, STREAMLINED, ONREFLECTION and UNPROCESSED.OFF COLOUR is a perfect trend for fall with a simple neutral STREAMLINED focuses on the eyes for the season and adds palette for the face and an outstanding bright a strength to the face, the look is somewhere mouth. There is no emphasis on the brow or the between glamour and grunge but looks likelashes and concealer was used in the crease of the eye. Powder and neither of the two. The common descriptions of these lean, horizontallyhighlight were used on the face and set with CCM powder, applied, focused shapes were but rather more “tomboy” and “tough” aroundand moved around using a brush on the forehead, around the edges of the eyes. Liner on the brows is used as an ornament but not in anthe nose and under the eyes so the face had a bit of shine. A beautiful excessive way. The very minimally covered skin feels like the moststrong orange lip against the neutral face added the drama to this look. appropriate canvas for the eye this season. Products used to achieve this look are ‘Blacktrack Fluidline’, ‘Black Ivy Fluidline’, M.A.C ‘Black started from an unprocessed to a simple Crème’ liner with ‘Naughty Lash’, ‘Chromagraphic Pencils’ with ‘FlingON REFLECTION smoky eye with silvering eye shadow on top and Lingering’ on the eyebrows. of smudged black eye liner. Matte grey wasapplied on the lid and textures were blended using both matte and reflects a look that is referred to as “real”frosted shadows. ‘Lime Ice’, ‘Moth’ and ‘Black Grape’ pressed pigments UNPROCESSED instead of “natural” because that is what awere used here to make the look more metallic, building on a blended barer faced look is really speaking about now,mélange of colours. Lips are left extremely bare with concealer used the individual! Minimal makeup in A/W 2014 is about the pure idea ofaround the mouth and the bridge of the nose to brighten up the face. accentuating reality and reveling in normality, this look is simply howDramatic and sparkly this is perfection for the festive season! a strong, self-assured cool and relevant woman today wants to look. Groomed and fresh but invisible, most modern women don’t wear that much makeup so this look Is all about being specific in the choices of what makeup you do and don’t use. This pushes home the idea that a woman’s face is beautiful in it’s natural state. Some of the essentials for this look are ‘Myself and Siss’ lipstick, ‘Nude Technakol’ liner, ‘Fun Ending’ blush, ‘Clear Brow Set’ and ‘Groundwork Pro Longwear Paint Pot’. 2 7 3 6 8 1 5 1. Crèmeblend Blush – Lady BlushM.A.C Cosmetics are available in Barbados in Cave Shepherd, 4 2. Prep + Prime MAC Fix+Bridgetown and Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Holetown. 3. Lipstick – Morange 4. Pro Chromagraphic Pencil (eye) – Hi DefCyan 5. Lip Pencil- Chesnut 6. Haute & Naughty Lash Mascara 7. “Prim and Proper” Pressed Pigment Eye Shadow from MAC’s Heirloom Mix collection 8. Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Satin Groundwork LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 67

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Happy inHalabalooBy Natasha Simpson Photos by Jake Thomas and Sofie Warren Barbadian fashion designer Halla Elias is creating a wave of delight in theUSA and around the world with her line of childrens apparel that has caught the attention of celebrity Moms such as Katie Holmes and Halle Berry.T he story of Halla Elias and her fashion label Halabaloo is Derek and Ana Went encouraged her to design children’s clothes. an inspiration and speaks volumes of the talent born on Thankfully she took their advice and Halabaloo was born. Over this island. This highly successful girl’s fashion designer the next few years she designed and produced stunning island is testament to the fact that with a dream and determination chic clothes for girls all hand painted in vibrant colours onto anyone can achieve their goals. I met with Halla on her recent cotton. family vacation to Barbados where she chatted freely about Halla then set her sights further afield and studied French in her life and family and how Halabaloo came to fruition. Halla’s preparation of making her dream of moving to France a reality. disarming, down to earth nature made the interview feel less At the age of 23 she re-located to Paris where she interned for like work and more as though I was catching up with an old designer Lolita Lempika working her way up to the position of friend. Her story is filled with determination, hard work and Assistant Designer. ultimately success. Eventually the call of the “Big Apple” was too strong Halla is of Lebanese parentage and was raised in Barbados and she moved to New York and continued freelancing as a where she attended St. Angela’s School and later Barbados children’s designer - painting and sewing her clothes from Community College where she studied A Level Art. Her journey her East Village apartment and promoting her line of clothes then took her to the United States where she studied Fashion at various trade shows. In 1998, at the third trade-show of Merchandising at the International Fine Arts College in Miami, the season, Halabaloo’s potential was finally recognised. An Florida and onto Philadelphia where she earned her BA in Arts overwhelming number of orders came in from highly regarded and met her husband William Calvert. department stores such as Neiman Marcus and various upscale The next few years were a whirlwind of exploration and boutiques around the USA. It was evident that buyers had fallen travel with intermittent pauses in Barbados and, it was during in love with her whimsical designs for the young generation of one of these breaks on the island that Halla’s early mentors fashionista’s. LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 69

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Photo by Jessica Wynne Halabaloo dresses range from age 3 months to size 14 and each other, drawing on each other’s strength and offering constanthave two distinct styles. The casual dresses are colourful and fun support. They have now returned to working in the same officewith an obvious island influence, made up of prints that she designs after many years apart making it even easier to do so.herself and which often include embroidered details such as pom-poms or three-dimensional flowers. The formal dresses are just as “I LOVE, LOVE MYfeminine and ‘girly’ but embellished with luxe materials such as JOB... BUT I WORKEDsequins, satin, tulle and ribbon. VERY HARD TO GET WHERE I AM TODAY” Halla’s passion for designing was evident and she explainedthat she draws inspiration from everything around and includeddesigners such as Stella McCartney and fashion house Chloe whofurther inspire her, as well as her husband, acclaimed women’sfashion designer William Calvert. William joined us briefly and theirchemistry was evident, he explained that they bounce ideas off of LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 71

Halla’s daughter says: “MUMMY’S CLOTHES MAKE LITTLE GIRLS HAPPY”72 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015

Halabaloo clothing can now be found in high-end department storeslike Nordstroms, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus and internationally incountries such as England, Japan, Mexico and the Middle East. Halla creates onaverage over 50 designs a season and over 40,000 dresses are manufacturedeach year and her designs are favourites of celebrity children such as Tom &Katie Cruise’s daughter Suri, Halle Berry’s daughter, Nahla as well as Victoria’sSecret model Alessandra Ambrosio’s daughter Anja. Young starlet Mia Talericofrom Disney Channel sitcom Good Luck Charlie wore a Halabaloo dress to therecently held 2014 Emmy Awards in Los Angeles. Today Halla balances her job as a designer with role of wife and motherto her two children, her son Oden is 12 and daughter Ciel age 6. I had thepleasure of meeting her spunky daughter who when asked if she had anythingto add, stated matter of factly, “ Mummy’s clothes make little girls smile”. With demanding schedules for both Halla and her husband, they returnto Barbados with their two children every summer taking a break from thebig city to see their family and friends. They use this time to indulge in somemuch needed rest and relaxation. Our island girls can embrace the “downtowndebutante to be” lifestyle by shopping her designs online or by visiting herwebsite – Halabaloo.com LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 73

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JENNY BLANC’S Jenny Blanc is now an established name in Barbados ISLAND MADE for its interior design of exceptionally beautiful FURNITURE holiday homes in the Caribbean and its stunning COLLECTION showroom in St. James, established three years ago, is the place to visit for quality home essentials,76 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 lovely final touches with which to accessorise your property, exquisite gifts and well-made durable outdoor furniture suitable for the Caribbean climate.

What may be less well known, except of course to their design with wrought iron detailing to support marble, stone or glass tops in a clients, is that over the years the company has designed choice of traditional or contemporary styles. The Hillaby dining table on its own bespoke furniture, capitalising on the talented view in the Barbados showroom is extremely popular. Elegant coffee local artisans on the island who translate the Jenny Blanc designs tables and console tables complete the current range. into beautifully hand crafted pieces inspired by the tropical lifestyle The range of wooden furniture is extensive with a selective choice and locally available materials; coralstone, mahogany, hardwoods and of finishes including painted, stained and the traditional ‘pickled’ wrought iron. There are benchmark pieces, some of which can be seen wood which was developed in the 1970’s for ceilings and architectural in the showroom, but for design clients they will also undertake to woodwork and is now widely used on furniture which produces an design custom made furniture inspired by function or theme, each effect not unlike sun bleached wood found on the beach and gives a piece being individual and unique. A bespoke cabinetry service is also hint of the seaside. For the bedroom there are impressive four poster available for design clients. beds which can be draped with light muslins and voiles and headboards Barbados has a tradition of exceptional wrought iron work which with a variety of designs to include scallop shells and caned detailing. compliments the lifestyle and is both decorative, functional and Tables include dining tables, dressing tables, coffee tables and bedside practical in the climate. The company produces wonderful designs for tables. Materials such as cane, wood, bamboo and copper are combined ornamented window grilles required for security, staircase bannisters, to create beautiful original designs. For the living areas, bespoke TV sometimes with a repeat motif which echoes throughout the furnishings cabinetry and distinctive one-off bars – some beautifully hand painted and, of course, furniture. There are refined and beautiful dining tables with scenes of local wildlife - have been created for Jenny Blanc’s clients. LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 77

The one indigenous material available to designers in Barbados is the local coralstone which is quarried inland and has been used as a building material for centuries. Despite the porosity of this stone it can also be carved. Taking the local flora and fauna as inspiration, the designers have created an exquisite pineapple console table, dining tables featuring pedestals carved with shells, corals or seahorses and topped with glass so the beautifully carved motifs can be clearly seen. For design projects they will also create custom wall art carved in coralstone. New pieces are continuously being designed and manufactured and the designers are always experimenting with new combinations of materials and the local skills of the artisans. The intention is to develop and market local manufacturing with a range and quality of West Indian vernacular furniture that will appeal to customers throughout the Caribbean. Caribbean Showroom: Sunset Crest, St. James, Barbados, West Indies Tel: 1 (246) 432 0989 E-mail: [email protected] London Design Studio & Showroom: 59 High Street, Teddington, West London TW11 8HA Tel: +44 (0)20 8943 4440 E-mail: [email protected] www.jennyblanc.com78 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015

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1. 2. 3. Support local artisans by 5. purchasing these items that we simply adore! 4. 6.1. Using locally sourced and 2. Made by The Green Monkey 3. You’ll love these bikinis by 4. Children between the ages 5. Experience the real taste of 6. Glenroy Jordan’s “Sugarrepurposed items, designer Chocolatier these luxurious Bajan Cherry Swimwear. A col- of 3 and 12 will enjoy this book the island with Cutters award Mill Rhythm” oil on canvasLynne Williams of Chattelwood authentic French macaroons are laboration between two surfer as they follow Little Lou Lou and winning Very Special Rum Punch. piece is one of many to call thehas created mirrors and sculp- made from the finest, all natural chicks who wanted to find the her mother during a fun-filled The perfect thirst quencher for recently opened Village Gallerytures that capture the essence ingredients. As decadent to eat, perfect bikini. Their styles are visit to Limegrove Lifestyle a day at the beach, sublime sun- its temporary home. This pieceof island living, with clients often as they are to look at, they come surf tested and proven to stay Centre. The perfect way to share downer or a take home gift for captures the sugar industry incommissioning bespoke pieces. in a range of flavours such as put even through the toughest one of Barbados’ gems with very special overseas friends and Barbados with vibrant colours,Available from Eddo, Bay Street mango, vanilla, salted caramel, of Soup Bowl surf session. Prices a little shopper! From Monkey family. Approach with caution, it’s which embody the rhythmicand the Chattelwood studio, passion fruit and more. They also range between Bds$120-$140. Puzzle, 1st floor, Limegrove strong and sweet! From Cutters motions of cane field workers.Fairfield Plantation, St Lucy. Call make a wonderful selection of Visit them on Facebook or call Lifestyle Centre; at Days Books, Deli, near the Crane Beach. Tel The Crane Resort, St. PhilipLynne on (246) 262-4227 or visit luxury chocolates. To order call (246) 836-1406 for more details. Bridgetown and St. Nicholas (246) 423-0611 /www.cutters.bb Email: [email protected] on Facebook. Wendy Abed on (246) 231-1001. Abbey. or call (246) 423-6220. LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 81

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84 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 ‘CAMOUFLAGE’

PERSON OF INTEREST By Laura Lin Hutchinson Photography By Khalil GoodmanGuniJohnsonG uni Johnson, has been creating extraordinary mosaics for in the wind. She can give you information like how sweet potatoes some 13 years. She rediscovered this particular medium got to the Easter Islands and how Inca gold came to Romania. first with the construction of a series of brilliant other-worldly collages which were exhibited at the Future Centre Trust It was this love of nature and a curious and free spirit thatafter which she created a life size mosaic turtle for the front steps eventually led to the Caribbean and embracing the Rastafarianof that establishment. Little did she know at the time that this culture. Through the years her creativity grew from making thewas the start of a journey of discovery that would lead to her most finely executed beaded jewelry to fantastic collages to thebecoming the supreme mosaic artist she now is. magnificent mosaics. Known by many simply as Guni, she is a small framed, slim, Before actually making mosaics, Guni had been collecting shellssturdy woman with a beehive crown of grey streaked, golden and coloured beach glass for years and storing them in crocuslocks. Her pale blue eyes are surrounded by fine lines, mapping bags, intuiting that she would someday need them for ‘something’.a life of struggle, survival and success….of love and laughter. Her early pieces were mostly beach glass. Then she found a rockShe has strong hands, with blunt fingers and a firm grip. She is tumbling machine at an auction sale which came with a hugeaged but ageless. She has raised five grown children and is a collection of rocks. She could now create her own beach glassgrandmother of two who keep her young minded. She came to effect. She is still using the same machine smoothing, tumblingBarbados in 1980 to work and stayed, like so many others who and polishing rocks, stones, shells, glass, coral etc., the early partfound the contrast to life in Europe so appealing. of the process before they are then assembled, stuck, grouted and transformed into truly awesome works of art, some as big as 8ft, As a child growing up in Germany she spent long hours in the which now grace many private homes, villas, hotels and restaurants.countryside, while her father went hunting she would immerseherself in nature, watching birds and studying insects and even Each phase -sourcing and collecting, sorting and storing,then, collecting found objects. This developed into a lifelong cleaning, tumbling, cutting, placing, joining, gluing, grouting,fascination with archeology and indigenous peoples and later she cleaning, polishing is an entire enterprise in itself. Each step isbriefly studied animal psychology while attending a seminar in approached and completed with great method and patience andFrankfurt Zoo. She is a woman who has broken in wild Arabian joy. This is not work for the weak willed. It requires courageousstallions and has memories of riding across the Algarve, hair flying creative vision, intuition, formidable determination, eyes like a hawk, deft hands, a meticulous touch, serious concentration and a LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 85

I am intrigued by all found objects ‘METACOM - THE ART OF WARRE’ ‘UNDER THE SEA’86 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 ‘BIRD OF PARADISE’

tenacious spirit. “I allow myself the broadest spectrum of experimentation PAPIER MACHE BOWL MADEconstantly pushing and extending the parameters of my imagination. Any FROM THE COVER OF AN OLD FANfound object has the potential to be transformed. Imagine a pile of stinking CULINARY ART -fish scales found on the beach becomes roses! I see roses, I smell roses, I (MADE WITH SHELLSmake roses”. Guni is often as amazed as anyone else at her own ingenuity. THROWN AWAYAnother one of her very clever ‘inventions’ is the coconut sheath dressed FROM RESTAURANTS,in glass so elegant and attractive a fruit bowl or centre piece you wouldn’t MUSSELS ETC)believe it! SHELL MIRROR A broken mother of pearl button is a silver moon, old mussel shellsbecome luminescent black lotuses, oyster shells, bottoms of bottles, broken LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 87crockery, old cigar boxes and discarded jewelry. Plus special unique findsensconced in the work that often have long stories attached to them. Shehas given a whole new meaning to the art of recycling. “I am intrigued by all found objects, I love to bring back to life thatwhich was discarded or broken or thought to be useless and recreate itinto something stunning and wonderful. In fact I re-recycle! When youthink out of the box, creatively, anything that falls into your hands has thepotential to become a beautiful re-creation…this in itself creates a path.” Her latest innovation is a metamorphosis of the mosaic - underpaintedglass mosaics. For this new design she has been collaborating with ayoung painter, Romell Yearwood, whose abstracts, psychic landscapesand nature paintings she always admired. It is a fusion of skills, a mixingof minds; integrating the various media they work together harmoniouslyto produce a style of art that is both beautiful and durable and so isparticularly suitable for areas subject to the elements, like the verandahsof beach side villas and garden patios. The clear glass is cut and assembled like a mosaic and then the subjectis painted on the underside. The finish is clean, smooth, shiny and totallytactile and it allows for a greater range of expression than the mosaicwhere the tiles can be static and restrictive. Inspired by the flora and faunaof the land and the sea there are Lion fish, birds, underwater scenes, amonkey amongst dappled grape leaves, a nest of pink lilies in deep greenleaves seen through fractional glass, vibrant and brimming with color, easyto maintain and long lasting. “It has more profundity and depth, it is likelooking into stained glass but with no source of light behind. Especially withmetallic colours, it has its own light, its own reflection…particularly theunderwater scenes, the glass itself creates a feeling of water, of luminosity” There is no end in sight, Guni doesn’t intend stopping. She often startsher day by going to the beach and after some sun salutations and vigorousexercise in the sea she will comb the beach for any new treasures,sometimes with her granddaughter a willing accomplice. Nothing is tokeep she says, everything is to use. She goes home to her workspace, aplace of chaotic order and she knows exactly where every little thing is,after a cup of coffee she proceeds to work sometimes until dark or until sheis satisfied or completely exhausted. What would she like to do that she hasn’t done? “I would love to doentire large wall spaces in big houses, imagine a complete jungle scene,waterfalls, wildlife or an entire bathroom in and underwater seascapeon the ceiling and walls where you would be like a diver surrounded byfish and coral life and seaweed and water everywhere…that would be dabomb!” What would she like people to say about her after she’s gone? “I don’tcare what they say. It won’t matter to me then anyway. (laughter) I am notdoing this for people to say what a great artist Guni was. I get tremendoussatisfaction when my clients are satisfied, happy when I bring or installa finished piece, that it is even better than what they expected. I’ve hadclients cry when they saw the work. Well a friend did say about one of mypieces the other day ‘brilliant Guni, freaking brilliant’ and I guess that waskinda nice” (laughter) Brilliant indeed, the meticulous master of her craft,constantly re-using and re-inventing, transforming and transcending anddefinitely thinking out of the box…and being Guni even the box would bean exquisite construction of magnificent underpainted glass mosaic.

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Living Room at Sapphire Beach Hey Sailors THIS ONE’S FOR YOU!90 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015

Whether you’re a sailor or just a sailor at heart, a modern nautical vibe can add instant splash to any room. A. So set sail down to Walker’s World, and navigate your home into something truly wonderful. K. J. CHECK OUT THESE NAUTICAL INSPIRED SUGGESTIONS: I.B. D. H. C. E.A. Anchors Away $149.95 F. G.B. Horizon Rugs from $649.95 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 91C. Coastal Postcard Serveware from $24.95D. Boat Tray with servers $119.95E. Whelk Shell Server $49.95F. Nautical Tray $69.95G. Asst. Coastal Cushions $129.95H. Weather Friendly Basket $219.95I. Occasional Table $795.95J. Beachside Glass Vase $159.95K. Seahorse print $319.95 www.walkersworldbarbados.commillhouse & home 421.7968 • st.lawrence gap 428.1183

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Visit our spacious showroom at Canewood for fine lighting, kitchen appliances, architectural hardware and plumbing products from qualitynames like Kohler, Duravit,Smeg, Sub-Zero and Wolf, Hansgrohe, Bosch, Grohe and Progress Lighting. LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 93

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Luxurious Toad HallLocated in the gated golf community of Royal Westmoreland sits a fantastic property known asToad Hall featuring four distinctive themed bedrooms along with many other unique and beauti-ful features throughout the home such as the dining room which is fully enclosed with eglomisemirrored glass on painting, lalique glass on taps, baccarat crystal chandelier and handmade tilesfrom Wales for the swimming pool which depicts an underwater city and marine life. The floorsare imported marble and travertine with granite counters in the kitchen and bathrooms. A man’sdream come true, with an amazing man cave with large pool table, elegant bar, home theatre,wine room and his and hers imaginative powder rooms. Sales Price: USD$14,000,000.00To learn more call Realtors Real Estate Limited on (246)432-6930 or visit them online atwww.realtorsrealestatesales.com LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015 95

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REDUCED!!! REDUCED!!!REDUCED!!! REDUCED!!!98 LIVING BARBADOS NOVEMBER 2014 - MARCH 2015

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