Cool Hunting
| 16 September 2008view entries from: this week | this month | view previous day | view next day |
MiniJet Lighters
by Ami Kealoha
Browsing the newly revamped Colette recently, I spied these sleek little lighters called miniJets. From the 135 year-old maker of fine lighters S.T. Dupont, the miniJet's compact size (it's just over two inches tall), punchy colors, and technology are meant to introduce the brand to a younger market.
In spite of its minimal weight (for nomads), the miniJet's satisfying heft and smooth surface makes the lighters playthings for nervous types, perfect for distractedly spinning on a counter top. And we think the slender silver button that ignites the flame is worlds more chic than flicking a Bic.
But as a tool, it rates high too. Thanks to an electronic ignition, the blue-tinted flame stays straight in any position and won't blow out in even the most blustery of situations — its intensity even had us worried for our eyelashes at first. The flame is adjustable of course and a window handily indicates the butane level.
Though we're not quite writing off the all-American, James Dean appeal of a Zippo just yet, the miniJet would coordinate well with a vintage Vespa. Pick one up from Colette for 90€, buy directly from miniJet (in France only) or find a retailer on the S.T. Dupont site.
Michael Swaney: Whitehorse, Yellowknife, Red Deer
by Jonah Samson
The other day, while on one of my regular gallery tours in Vancouver, I stopped by Atelier Gallery during the installation of their most recent show, a series of collages by Canadian-born, Barcelona-based artist Michael Swaney. I was immediately taken with one of the images leaning up against the wall waiting to be hung. The staff were kind enough to let me browse through the rest of the images, and I have to say that I was equally captivated by pretty much every other picture in the show.
Michael Swaney collects "the relics of our consumerist society" and uses them to create bright and busy scenes that are delightfully absurd. The found scraps of paper that he uses are often painted and layered. This manipulation of the stained and discolored papers, not only allows the works to maintain their original aesthetic quality, but also transforms each picture into something fresh. I love that in the chaos of the little scenes, you can always find elements of his quirky sense of humor, often reflected in his unusual titles (i.e. "Polish Situation with Sticks").
You can see of Michael Swaney's work on his website, but if you get the chance you should check them out in person.
Whitehorse, Yellowknife, Red Deer
Through 28 September 2008
Atelier Gallery
2421 Granville Street
Vancouver BC
Canada, V6H 3G5
map
tel. +604 732 3021
Revolution 3D Tea
by Max Gold
Revolution Tea's new 3D teas make their premium blends portable and add a little something extra.
Known for a triangular tea bag (the Teapot Infuser, which is designed to brew a small pot of tea), Phoenix, Arizona-based Revolution company is never afraid to make a good thing better. Known for their extensive sensitivity towards consumer preference, their flavors have become beloved by tea connoisseurs worldwide for being layered and interesting. And now they take tea yet another step further.
Revolution 3D is the first "multi-dimensional" beverage of its kind, combining "super" fruit juices (made from so-called "super fruits"), essential vitamins and Revolution's own premium white tea. My favorite is the Green Apple, sweetened with blue agave nectar. If you're looking for something special to throw in your lunch box this fall, Revolution 3D is definitely worth a try.
Also, check out Revolution's website for fun tea party ideas.
Revolution's 3D teas are available at a variety of major supermarkets. Check their site for locations or buy a four-pack online for $8 from Revolution.
