1. You started out as a sculptor, before training in shoe design. What motivated you to pursue shoes?

I always loved shoes and it was a means to continue my love for sculptural forms but in a more functional way.

That was when I met a friend who was studying at the Royal College of Art who told me that if I was serious about making shoes I should apply to do an MA in Footwear Design and The Royal College of Art where Manolo Blahnik is a mentor.

This is how my shoe journey began and I haven’t looked back since! I have met the best shoemakers in the world and had an incredible time learning the craft of shoemaking.

2. Where did you grow up? How did your early years and family influence you? 

I grew up in a tiny village just outside of London called Harlington in Bedfordshire. We were the only Chinese family in the village and it taught me a lot about how important family is – it was a difficult time but we were very happy nonetheless. In very similar ways the shoe circle in London is much like a tight family where once we have been introduced into the shoe family everyone keeps an eye out for each other and that shoe family tie is never lost. I am always grateful for the shoemakers who really nurtured and encouraged me during my time at the RCA and the years after and beyond.

3. What was it like working under under the likes of Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik in London? 

Being in Jimmy Choo’s bespoke workshop in Belgravia was a real eye opener for me. Jimmy was very welcoming and told me that even if I didn’t have experience as a shoemaker – my time in his workshop was to watch and learn. But soon enough I was helping to cut samples and really advanced my knowledge and affinity with working with leather.

4. Manolo was a visiting tutor at the RCA. Meeting Manolo was like meeting a living legend. He gave some great advice of which I keep in my mind when I go through the rollercoaster ups and downs of having my own shoe line. I also love his craziness – it’s very contagious! Both Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik have this kind of humility, which is refreshing as they are the two biggest figures in the shoe world today.

4. How would you describe your style? 

I hope that my style goes beyond a season. Strong, feminine with a quiet elegance.

5. Many of your shoes have an element of fantasy. What (or who) inspires you – and who do you imagine wearing your shoes? 

I love fairytale – I love all the Hans Christen Anderson fairytales like Hansel and Gretel where there is an element of good and bad. In this way I like to design my collection for a woman who likes to dress seductively at times and also demurely at other times. I really love real life fairy tale figures of today – one of whom is Daphne Guinness. She looks so other-worldly.  She is inspiring. I really love seeing someone in the street wearing my shoes – there’s a sense of fulfillment. I would also love to see Angeline Jolie wear my shoes. I love her untouchable composure, it would be a challenge to have her wear a pair of my shoes, I think she could be more adventurous with her choice of shoes!

6. How important is China to you as a market and as a source of inspiration? 

China is THE market that all brands would like to tap into. It’s really amazing to see the Chinese consumer take control of their buying- it’s as if they have woken from a deep slumber and discovered the realm of luxury. Their thirst for luxury is an inspiration. My shoes are also handmade in China and I feel that this also a demonstration that there are amazingly skilled craftsmen in China. I am going to showcase their skills and manifest them in my shoes. I would like to marry my design sense from London with the craftsmanship of China. I think it’s a very exciting time in China. My workshop in China is an inspiration – we are always challenging the traditional methods of shoemaking every season. A simple shoe does not mean a simple construction. This is what makes shoemaking so interesting.

7. Are there any Chinese designers you admire? How do you see China changing the fashion world in future?

It is happening. China is changing the fashion world of the future. You could say that the arrival of Alexander Wang at Balenciaga is a huge step in fashion for Chinese designers. But I also would like to see that regardless of race or color-designers and their work should be appreciated foremost for their design rather than where they are from.

8. What was your greatest challenge in starting your own brand and business?

The greatest challenge was finding a factory. It took me two years to find like-minded people who could see potential in my designs and were up for a challenge. This just so happened to be in China. Another big barrier was the ‘made in China’ stigma. I came up against this at the very beginning of my business. It has and is still a battle but I think that people are coming to realise that my shoes are comparable to luxury shoes made anywhere else in the world. I am out to prove a point and that there is nothing wrong with ‘made in China’ products. If a product is made well it doesn’t matter where it is made. At the end of the day I like to give the customer a luxury product at a very good price point.

9. What do you believe shoes say about a person? 

Shoes can tell you so much about a person. How they treat their shoes, what brands they wear. What styles they like to wear- flats, mids, highs. What mood they are in. You’ve heard of the phrase ‘wearing your heart on your sleeve’. I definitely believe people wear their ‘mood on their feet’.

10. Any advice to other young designers? 

Believe in yourself. When you face criticism take it on board and use it constructively. And always be humble.

11. And lastly, what is your favorite shoe in the world and why? 

That’s hard! I can’t decide on just one pair! But as a lover of fairy tale there is always the lasting image of Dorothy of Kansas’ ruby slippers in the Wizard of Oz. Everyone should have a pair of Ruby slippers to take them home.

Ceviche

The quientessential dish of the coast. Fresh raw fish, partially ‘cooked’ in a marinade of lime juice, local chill (aji) and red onion. Stunningly refreshing and packed full of flavour, this healthy dish is hard not to like. Pictured: Mixed ceviche (fish and seafood) at Punto Azul  (http://puntoazulrestaurante.com/)

Lomo Saltado

Here the influence of Chifa, or Chinese-Peruvian cuisine (derived from ‘chi fan’), is clearly in evidence here. A stir fry of beef, peppers, tomatoes, onions and soy sauce, served with French fries and rice, is classic comfort of Peruvians of all backgrounds. Pictured: a slight twist on the classic lomo saltado, with a healthy dose of local red wine, at El Tio Dario, Arequipa. (http://www.tiodario.com/)

Tiradito

Similar to ceviche, only with a Japanese twist. Thin slices of fresh fish (such as sole) are marinated in lime, ginger, chilli, and sometimes laden with a spicy sauce. The main difference with ceviche: the lack of onions. Another must try. Pictured: El Tio Dario House special tiradito

Conchitas a la parmesana

Here the Italian influence really kicks in here. Conchitas (baby scallops) are simply grilled with grated parmesan. Simple, but absolutely delicious. Pictured: Conchitas a la parmesana at Brujas de Cachiche (http://www.brujasdecachiche.com.pe/)

Pollo a la brasa

One of the nation’s favourite comfort foods, pollo a la brasa is without one of the tastiest ways to cook a chicken anywhere on earth. Influences of Asia and Europe are clear here: soy sauce, garlic, lime, cumin, oregano and local chilli (aji) help to form a marinade which will get your tastebuds tingling, enhanced by the smokeyness of being cooked on a rotisserie grill. Available throughout the country. Pictured: Pollo a la brasa at La Choza de Oscar, Puno (http://www.lachozadeoscar.com/)

Ceviche nikei

Japanese-influenced ceviche deserves a separate entry. Especially La Mar’s ceviche nikei (http://www.lamarcebicheria.com/web/index.php). Not dissimilar to classic ceviche, only less sour and more nutty, La Mar’s ceviche nikei utilises tuna, and Asian influences such as sesame oil, soy sauce and seaweed, and is another dish that needs to be consumed during a visit to Lima. Pictured: ceviche nikei (middle) at La Mar.

Sushi with a Peruvian twist

Here, local Peruvian influences are used to adapt Japanese sushi with incredible end results, best tried at Edo (http://www.edosushibar.com/). My favourite was probably their Edo Maki, a prawn tempura maki roll topped with baby octopus sautéed in butter. Sushi doesn’t normally come with anything dairy related – but this Peruvian touch adds a rich element which, well, is best described as godly. The roll next to it, another winner, ‘Tartare Maki’, a panko-crusted prawn and avocado maki roll topped with a tuna and salmon tartar, laden with eel and spicy sauce, with crispy wonton strips to finish.

Aji de gallina

This dish is Peruvian comfort food at its very best. It’s basically a Peruvian chicken curry, only with some pretty luxurious ingredients. Moist, juicy chicken breast is shredded and enveloped in a sauce comprising milk, evaporated milk, parmesan cheese, bread, pecans and aji Amarillo (yellow chilli), served with rice, hard boiled egg and olives. Creamy, comforting and unctuous, it’s a dish you would love to have access to on a more regular basis. Pictured: at Inka Grill, Cusco (http://www.cuscorestaurants.com/en/inkagrill.html)

Lucuma desserts

It’s rather hard to describe lucuma, simply because  there is no other fruit quite like in on this planet. The closest flavour to it is probably a cross between maple and caramel, but not as sweet. When used in ice creams, creams and mousses, it results a comforting, rich taste which partners perfectly with local Peruvian dark chocolate. Pictured: Lucuma cream with dark chocolate mousse, at Cicciolina, Cusco (http://www.cicciolinacuzco.com/english/cicciolina_home.html)

Modern Italian-Peruvian Fusion 

Some of Cusco’s finest cooking can be unearthed at Incanto (http://www.cuscorestaurants.com/en/incanto.html), a restaurant speciliasing in Peruvian-Italian fusion. Pictured is their squid ink linguine with sautéed prawns in an aji (chilli) sauce  – definitely a winner. Spicy yet not overpowering aji, juicy prawns and a strong dose of the sea was evident in the linguine, all components of a quality dish.

Cuy, also known as guinea pig

Unfortunately or fortunately (whichever way you look at it), guinea pig is probably Peru’s most infamous culinary export. Whilst tasty, as you can see from the rest of this article, there are plenty more refined and interesting dishes to explore whilst in Peru.

Alpaca barbeque

Much of this article shows how a lot of Peru’s best gastronomic creations are based on sea-dwelling creatures. Fortunately for meat-lovers out there, a juicy alpaca steak (not dissimilar to lamb, only very slightly more gamey), marinated in local spices and charcoal grilled, offers some respite from the plethora of seafood available. Pictured: Alpaca steaks at La Casa de Mamayacchi (http://www.lacasademamayacchi.com/)

Jungle Cuisine

At the Tambopata eco-lodge (www.tambopatalodge.com), your tastebuds can get to sample the elegant simplicity of Peruvian jungle cuisine. The star of the pictured plate was chicken steamed in palm leaf with chilli, herbs and onions – immaculately moist and packed tons of flavour. Nicely steamed rice, fresh avocado, fried until crispy on the outside soft in the middle yucca (cassava) and a spicy onion relish complete the dish.

Pachamanca

The Peruvian people’s love for Pachamama (Mother Earth) pre-dates Incan civilisation. This is also evident in their food, particularly in the form of a meal known as Pachamanca. Much like Hangi’s in New Zealand, this almost ritualistic way of cooking involves digging a hole in the ground, lining the base with charcoal, then dispersing the food of your choice amongst hot stones, followed by grass coverage before finally being capped with soil.

A few hours is normally enough to slow-cook the food with spectacular end results. But before digging in, one must bless the food by blowing coca leaves, and a designated ‘shaman’ is the needed to unearth the delights which lie beneath. Pictured: at Wasipunko (http://www.nascawasipunko.com/)

New York City. These three simple words are enough to make any traveller’s heart swell with excitement and longing. With every passing day I fell more in love with this amazing place. Beyond the standard attractions and activities, it’s the little things about the city that have captivated me.

Here are some things to watch out for:

Colourful characters — There’s never a dull moment as you traverse the streets or the subway. Highlights for me include a man with headphones freestyling down the street in broad daylight, and  the incredibly talented and entertaining buskers performing their hearts out.

International flavour — New York is a truly cosmopolitan place. I love catching snippets of conversation in foreign tongues, and of course enjoying the world-renowned, multicultural food.

Subway vents — The wispy streams of white are a beautiful, dynamic feature of the urban landscape.

Underground mosaics — The underground passageways are colourfully decorated, from holiday-themed mosaics to intricate animals at the station for the Museum of Natural History. Each stop has its own unique character.

Clear skies — Unlike the Chinese metropolises, the New York air is very clean for a big, bustling city. On sunny days the sky is a piercing blue, the perfect accompaniment to a stroll in Central Park or a ferry ride to admire the magnificent skyline.

Keep your senses sharp in the Big Apple… you never know what surprises it may have in store, around every corner!

What was your childhood like?

I grew up in a middle class family in India. We didn’t have much money, but my brothers and I were showered with love by my parents. The most part of my growing up was to see the amazing marriage that my Mum and dad had and the understanding that existed between them despite an age gap of 11 years, quite different backgrounds, and personalities.

My brothers and I never got anything easy. We had to work for everything. I developed a solid work ethic from the time I was a little boy. Each of us were assigned tasks at home – helping to make breakfast for the family, standing in line to go get milk from the government distribution center (yes, in those days milk in India was rationed), cleaning chores.  I remember I did all of my own work and took on my two brothers chores as well – for a fee! While they slept, I worked.

What about your relationship with your dad – whose advice informs your book, Daddy’s Logic.

My Dad and I had a unique relationship. I am the youngest of three brothers. Joseph the eldest, Charles (Dominic) the middle guy – who got my Dad’s name and was dad’s favourite – then me.

My Dad was a pretty cool guy. He was soft spoken, but started giving me advice in high school and that continued into College and then into my work. I discovered – though I didn’t fully admit it at the time – that when I listened to his advice, I did much better at school, extra curricular activities and in career. When I ignored the advice, I learned the hard way.

I write about it in the book – he and I had a special secret. He would give me a coin as pocket money every day when he dropped me off to school. I never had to ask. Years later, when he was past 75 and I was working, I started giving him pocket money back! Our relationship was a relationship of love in action, not in words. “Talk less, do more” was his style.  He was a real gentleman.

What’s your favorite piece of advice he ever gave you?

He always mentioned that a life of purpose wasn’t a good one. But my favourite one is his: “You can’t turn a horse into a cheetah”. Meaning it makes no sense wasting time working on turning a person into something he or she is not. Instead, he reminded us to find our own unique niche in life and play to our strengths. Years later, I saw books written on this very topic.  My father had been saying that for the last few decades!

Can you give us an example of a time when you applied that in business?

I use it all the time in business. When I hire, I look for people whose strengths match that specific role versus picking the best academic qualifications only.

Do you believe it is important to have “goals” – or are they unhelpful? In other words, should we have a “plan” or follow what we enjoy and see where it goes?

I believe in goals. I am more of a destination person versus a journey person. But I believe in practical magic. If one has a goal, then there must be an action plan to achieve. Useless talk is a waste of time and energy.

What experience in your own life most shaped who you are?

My parents’ marriage, and their work ethic. They never played the victim. They had a very clear sense of priorities. If you were to ask me to pick an experience, it is actually two experiences.

The first was when I was a young lad. I wanted to be an architect. So I went to my mum and asked her for money for the application form. It was only 12 Rupees (approximately 2 HKD). She turned to me and asked: “Is it really necessary son?” as she looked away from writing her “accounts book of daily expenses,” which I saw her maintain for years. I never forgot that lesson – no matter how successful I will be in the future, I still dislike wasteful expenditure. I will never spend beyond my means. And I have a laser focus on priorities.

The second was from the passing of my father. I write about it in Chapter one of Daddy’s Logic, when he was dying in hospital in March 2001. He asked me what my life’s purpose was and I was at loss for an answer. That made me think. So many of us wander aimlessly through life. We live in our little shells and never see the misery, opportunity, happiness, deep sorrow that others face. And we never do enough to help.

That’s why I wrote Daddy’s Logic – to use my communication skills for good. And that’s why all of my royalties from Daddy’s Logic go to charity – Habitat for Humanity – to build houses for the underprivileged across Asia.

You talk about “swimming upstream,” a motto you applied at Walmart. How is it possible to be unique today, when so many industries are so developed?

I personally believe that every person has some unique gift. When we understand our purpose in life and ally our personal strengths with our work or careers the benefit that accrues is much higher.  It takes time and introspection to understand truly what we are good at, and whether we can turn that into something really useful – a product or service that we can “sell” to our current employer or even leverage independently as an entrepreneur.

I got a great piece of advice when I was young – always be the “go to guy” for something. And I did that through my own career – I focused on a couple of things I had potential in, actively sought out the best teachers in those areas and honed my skills to a higher level then my peers. Over time, the work I did stood out from the crowd. So focus on your strengths.

What is your greatest piece of advice to young Asian entrepreneurs and business people?

Find your purpose. Discover your passion. Dream Big. Never stop learning. Create your own opportunities. In each of the first five chapters of Daddy’s Logic, you will find inspiring stories of how leaders and entrepreneurs did this and made huge successes of themselves and their organisations!

Anthony Rose is the Vice President of Walmart Asia and head of the Corporate Affairs function for Walmart Asia, based in Hong Kong. Anthony’s prior experiences were with Procter & Gamble across Asia and north America, Glaxo India, etc. 

Anthony is an accomplished speaker at several International Forums. At night, Anthony writes for charity. All of his royalties from DADDY’S LOGIC go to Habitat for Humanity to build homes for the underprivileged. 

From breaking air rifle records on behalf of her nation – Singapore – to managing a Starcraft II team, nothing seems impossible to conquer for the multitalented Zhang. When she’s not busy shooting and getting involved in high-end projects such as New York Fashion Week or Asia’s Next Top Model, the incredibly modest and young prodigy is reading (she’s a fan of Hesse’s works) or playing piano.

The busy Zhang was kind enough to make some time to talk to AERIS Magazine’s Yinsey Wang about her recent projects, move to New York, creative process and about cultural identity.

Tell us about the exciting project you’re undertaking, the Motherland Chronicles.

It started on a whim. I’ve wanted to try something akin to the “a photo a day” project that’s been really popular amongst young photographers active online; however, I never really thought that I had the time or could truly commit to it.

Moving to New York last December, I figured that with a new start in a new place that’s filled with so much creative energy, it’d be a good time to give it a go. But I didn’t want to compromise on the quality of my work, so it’s going to be “a photo a week” instead.

When I wanted to tell my good friend Toby (Tobias Kwan) about it, I decided to make it into a challenge on the fly. Somehow that’s made me more devoted to the project, maybe because I want my work to look good next to his. I think it’s more challenging versus being a painter, since an artist can include so much more fantasy and made-up materials that I can’t easily produce.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge about this project? How are you getting other talents involved and how will you keep things fresh?

I think the biggest challenge is time. When it comes to personal work, I’ve developed this really terrible habit of taking it slow with the pictures so I can make the best choices. With Motherland Chronicles, I’ll be forcing myself to make decisions quickly and that’s stressful because I’m always afraid of regretting my choices later if I don’t study them enough.

Of course, production itself will get tough too; I want to shoot a lot of things that have been on my to-do list – things that are probably a little more difficult than usual to pull off. To do that within a short timeframe, at the same time as trying to establish myself professionally in a new city, is really challenging.

How has your experience in New York been so far?

It’s been wonderful! To be honest, I wasn’t a big fan of NY the first few times I was here. I didn’t have friends then, and the relatives I stayed with were really far out in Queens, because I was spoiled by how small Singapore is and used to not taking more than 20 minutes for a trip, the hour plus commuting time was really dreary for me. However, it’s completely changed now, I’m rooming with people I’ve known for a while, have great people to work with, and my agency is taking good care of me and setting me up for meetings with incredible clients. I’m really happy!

You get to collaborate with amazing names such as Michelle Phan. Tell us about that! 

Michelle was great! She’s really sweet, encouraging, and full of positive energy. We connected over twitter a while ago, and before I left L.A. at the end of 2011 we decided to meet up and collaborate.

It was crazily windy and cold when we were shooting that day, but she was a super trooper and had no complaints for the harsh weather at all. I know she’s in NY a lot, so we may be able to shoot again in the future!

Who or what is your dream subject?

I’ve always wanted to photograph Gemma Ward because she was the face that made me care about finding out a model’s name.

You made an exciting appearance on Asia’s Next Top Model. Can you let us know more about that?

That was such a great surprise and honour! It was very exciting and the filming crew was really professional. I’d been on some shows in Singapore but they were never produced quite at this scale.

It also had a crazy schedule. Because it was TV, we had to turn in retouched photos the next day after shooting for them to judge the girls in the morning. I worked all night with a retoucher friend, splitting the workload. Whenever I look back, I can’t believe we did 8 beauty shots in one night!

Your fans mean a lot to you. What has been the most memorable encounter or message received from a fan?

From time to time, I receive some really long fan mails about how reading my story changed their academic paths and lives, but the most memorable was probably at a talk for Canon in Singapore. A girl came up to me and was literally in tears trying to tell me how I moved her with my story. I was quite shocked and of course incredibly flattered, it made such an impression, and made me realize that I could and wanted to do more to reach out to people and try to make a positive difference to their lives.

“Forgotten Fairytales” is one of your most beautiful and loved works. What does it mean to you?

I think I don’t understand it myself sometimes, how well-loved or powerful that image is. But when I’m reminded, I know that Forgotten Fairytales (and Redemption) were what marked the beginning of my photography journey proper. The fantasy and dream-like quality I try to have in my work is something that I want to find again and explore in Motherland Chronicles, for I think I’ve let it lapse some in the last 2-3 years.

The inspiration behind Forgotten Fairytales was a story by Peter Lindbergh featuring Sasha Pivovarova, I can’t remember the title now, but she looked really haunted like she was running away from something. It was extremely expressive and dramatic.

I’d never been a huge movie person, but somehow I always really loved the cinematic look to Lindbergh’s black and white images. At the end though, my picture turned out nothing like that story or his work… but I think this is how one’s style is shaped. You take elements of something that inspires you, and interpret or copy it. Through the half dozen stages of preparations for that work, every stage changes the original elements a little, till the end at the shoot where spontaneity and circumstances come into play as well and what comes out in the end is yours.

You’re inspired by anime, by the Pre-Raphealites, and fashion designers. What’s the strangest thing, in your opinion, that you’ve drawn inspiration from for a piece?

I don’t know about strangest, but a pretty non-standard one for me was at a Halloween costume store recently. That was while I was looking for potential props, then I saw some masks on display, and that led me to Motherland Chronicles’ Week 1 concept.

Do a lot of your works go from one random thing to another? Or do you plan extensively the majority of the time?

A lot of the time, inspiration is random enough. It often starts from just one thing: maybe a girl whom I create a concept around, an item (like the mask in Motherland Chronicles #1), or occasionally of course a painting or photo, could be its colours, composition, anything in it really. And usually it’s just one thing that acts as a catalyst… The concept grows and evolves from there, based on my imagination.

There’s a real clean and utterly flawless quality to your work; would you call yourself a perfectionist or is it more of a stylistic trait?

Perfectionist, definitely!

This is a while ago now, but I remember at my first session with my psychiatrist (I’m fine now), in 5 minutes, he said, “You’re a perfectionist, aren’t you?” I was like “Yes! But what?! I didn’t even talk about work yet!” He then commented that my expectations for myself and everything were simply sky high, whereas reality was something miles beneath, and when the rest of the world I interacted with didn’t match my expectations, I was just making myself miserable. I was so impressed by his quick deduction because I felt as if I’d barely said anything!

When is a photo “truly finished”?

It’s hard to pinpoint, I suppose I simply know when it is. Of course, sometimes it may just be when I’ve gotten tired of completing final fixes, which can take hours. On one recent beauty image (Kendra Hair), I spent 4-5 hours just deciding on how to crop it!

You left China when you were really young and you grew up in Singapore; do you still feel a strong connection with these places though you travel a lot for work? 

Man, I could write an entire essay on this.

I tend to think of Singapore as home, my mum is there and she took care of me all these years, it’s something I associate with comfort and safety.

I definitely feel very Chinese at some parts of my core though, it’s probably been intrinsically ingrained into me just because how impressionable we are when we’re children. I value so many things that are what I think very traditionally Chinese — justice, honour, sacrificing oneself for the greater good, being a good member of society, and so on. These values sometimes make friends call me old fashioned, but it’s probably where the perfectionist in me came from as well.

Interview with Yinsey Wang

Images courtesy of Zhang Jingna

Website: http://zhangjingna.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/zemotion
Twitter: http://twitter.com/zemotion
And
Motherland Chronicles: http;//facebook.com/motherlandchr

How old are you?

26 years old.

When did you learn to paint and why do you chose to do so figuratively?

Since childhood, I felt a strong attraction to art. I always created something and even during my studies at the art school, where I was able to develop my professional skills, I realized art would be a major part of my life. At the beginning of my career I was interested not only figurative art, but also abstract art. After various experiments I understood that through figurative art I would still be able to realize all my ideas.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in a small provincial town in Russia. This is a special place with its unusual atmosphere and rich culture. I have very warm memories of this town and at every opportunity I try to visit it at least for a couple of days to see my old friends.

Who influenced you most?

My father had a great influence on me. He was an architect and also drew a lot. I spent a lot of time with him and enjoyed watching him work. Perhaps already in that time he awakened in me an interest in art subconsciously.

What was your inspiration for Berlusconi?

In this work, I wanted to show a strong, charismatic and self-confident man. We must not forget that he is not only a successful politician and businessman but also the person, who also tends to win and lose, to achieve the set goals but also make mistakes. A man, who in spite of various difficulties, continues to believe in himself and his power. 

What made you paint Bush as an astronaut?

I wouldn’t like to reveal completely the intention in this work, as each picture has the right to thousands of opinions. The only thing I will say is that this work was painted at the time George W. Bush was finishing his term as President and saying goodbye not only to the electorate but also to the image (of America) he created for all these years.

Obama as a superhero – is this because you see the world as needing a rescuer, or because you think he is strong?

I consider that our world needs help just such a strong man like Obama. I believed in him in the first term and continue to believe that he will be able to improve the economy of the country and change the situation in the world. I’m sure that he will be able to realize completely his presidential program and to achieve all his goals.

What was the greatest challenge you have faced? How did you overcome it?

I can’t distinguish the most difficult moments in my career because I never focus on the difficulties and always overcome them and achieve my goals. The concept is simple! You just need to understand that in life there are no problems and those difficult situations that meet you on your way, actually introduce new experiences in your life that force to look at things differently.

Do you have any advice to young artist in Asia?

The only thing I could say that the presence of talent does not make the young artist automatically successful. It’s necessary to develop the talent continuously, working on it a 24 hours a day, to look for new and interesting ideas and to realize them in the best way. We live in a world of high technology where you need to use every opportunity to present your art to people around the world. This, I think, is the most simple and at the same time the most difficult key to success.

What do you want to achieve in your work and what does art mean to you?

I’m sure that through my talent and great potential, I can change the world of art to bring pop art to new level. For me, art is a universal means of communication between people around the world. Art is a language that unites people from different cultures and traditions and examines familiar things in a new way.

Images courtesy of Rinat Shingareev 

Japanerisms

 Recently I had the privilege of visiting Japan — one week in Tokyo, a few days in Itayanagi, a small town up north in the Aomori Prefecture, and a day and a half in beautiful Kyoto. When asked how my trip was, I would respond that Japan is a cool country, one of fascinations and contradictions.

On first glance, Tokyo seems like any other major developed city, a jungle of glass and concrete for as far as the eye can see. At the shop and street levels, things get a lot more interesting. My first major travel experience was in 2011 across western and northern Europe. Of course the architecture and fashion and language were different to that of my home town, Sydney. But I never felt out of place, things didn’t seem that strange. Japan is truly different.

Here are some of the little things I have observed in Japan that piqued my interest while I was there:

1. Hot towels (apparently they’re called Oshibori — thanks Wikipedia!)

Walk into any decent-sized eating establishment and you will be served with a hot towel, usually of cloth, to wipe your hands with (and if you are like me and don’t care for conventions or sensitivities, your face as well). At nicer places they are served rolled up on a wooden platter. It is especially welcome after you have walked through the cold streets on a winter’s night to get to your culinary destination. After the initial wipe-down, they serve as useful hand and table cleaners throughout the meal. A brilliant idea that every eatery should implement at once.

2. Indoor smoking

From the good to the bad. From my casual observations, smoking is fairly common in Japan, especially among men. There are designated areas outside railway stations and big shopping centres where smokers congregate. Indoors, you will probably not be able to get away from them. At sushi counters, sit-down restaurants, bars, club floors, etc, people are generally free to light up. It is not hard for an overseas visitor used to tougher smoking restrictions to have their experience sullied by the plumes of passive smoke floating about a premises.

3. Applauding during karaoke songs

I noticed this when I visited my aunt’s (smoke-filled) karaoke bar with my Japanese cousin and two other locals. During pauses or breaks during a song performance, there will be polite claps and encouraging exhortations directed at the singer. On a related note, based on my limited sample size of two, I conclude that Japanese people really like their English golden oldies. They might not know what they are saying, but they sure sing it with gusto and relish. The man in the picture did a pretty mean rendition of ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love‘.

4. Automatic left passenger door in taxis

My aunt escorted me to her place in Tokyo from Narita Airport and we undertook the last leg of that long journey via taxi. I had my attention diverted as the taxi stopped and lo and behold, the passenger door was already open for me. Scratching my head in confusion, I disembarked. I made very sure to pay extra attention the next time around and sure enough, as soon as the taxi approaches kerbside to pick up or set down passengers, the left side passenger door opens automatically. Neat. Also, all taxi drivers do seem to wear white gloves.

5. Well-groomed dogs

Japanese people seem to really care for their dogs and shower them with love. Every dog that I came across was exceedingly well-groomed.

6. People still use old mobile phones

You know, the ones that are small and rectangular with a little screen and built-in keypad. As a Gen Y’er in Sydney, I’m pretty sure 99% of my cohort owns a touchscreen smartphone, either of the Apple or Samsung variety. These were not uncommon in Tokyo, but I was surprised to see the numbers of people (comprising supposedly one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world) wielding ‘legacy’ phones in commute and on the streets. I have two hypotheses for this: (i) Japanese phones are just so advanced in their own ways that the market has been less receptive to outside trends and (ii) it is easier to type in Japanese with keys rather than on slippery screens.

7. Self-lit witches’ hats

Continuing on the theme of little differences: in Japan, the witches’ hats directing traffic on roads are not your average, dull, orange things. The ones in Tokyo glow in the dark, serving as a helpful (and eerie) presence alerting drivers to changed traffic conditions at night time.

 8. Heated train seats

Or more accurately, there’s warm air that streams into your legs from vents underneath the seats on the metro. Japan is full of lovely surprises like this that makes you go “mmm why haven’t other countries thought of it yet?”

9. Days of the week are designated as elements

As someone who still clings to the vestiges of my Chinese upbringing and with a rudimentary ability to read kanji (they are identical to Chinese characters), I noticed that the Japanese have an imaginative way of denoting days of the week. The seven days correspond to the five elements that are associated with the visible planets (eg, Tuesday is 火 which means “fire”, 火星 is Mars), as well as the Sun (日) and the Moon (月).

Imagine if we did this in English-speaking countries: “So when should we have our lunch date?” “What about 10am on the Day of Fire?” Cool.

10. Intrepid (and sometimes irresponsible) cyclists

I have a thing for cycling. It’s wonderful. I’ve pedalled in many a city but there are all relatively small, such as Barcelona, Copenhagen and Amsterdam. Tokyo, as a dense, tall, sprawling megacity of 30 million daytime inhabitants, is a completely different beast.

Nevertheless, cycling is very popular in Tokyo. I went during the winter time and there would be intrepid riders braving the elements, many with umbrellas in hand. For the tricky uphill sections their backsides would be off the seats as they step into the pedals. What I found most perplexing, and something I didn’t witness in any other city, was that cyclists regularly ride against the flow of traffic. Often I’d be in the bus or the taxi, and lo and behold: a cyclist comes barrelling towards the vehicle going in the opposite direction, hugging the sidewalk.

[University of Tokyo Picture]

11. Every eating place is patronised, every time, everywhere

Japan (and especially Tokyo) is big and dense. You’d expect to find bars and restaurants to be teeming with people, and you’d be right. What surprised me was how robust this phenomena was.

(1) On my first night in Tokyo, I flew in late and my aunt took me out to a sushi place in the “suburbs” at 11pm. Patrons filled every seat and cigarette smoke hung thick in the air.

(2) In the middle of the afternoon in Akihabara my friends and I were lured to a maid café by an insistent promoter. Let’s just say our visit to this cultural oddity — through an obscure shopfront and up six floors in a service elevator — was an interesting one. Somehow, at this time and in this place there were people already inside. A couple was sitting on a stage at the centre of the colourful room, the signature V in their outstretched hands, posing for a photo with a cheerful maid (it comes with the set menu). Meanwhile an anxious-looking man with long greasy hair and chubby cheeks surveyed the perky surroundings with seeming detachment. Japan is a strange place.

(3) After going out and pulling an all-nighter in Shibuya, my friends and I stumble into MOS Burger at 5 in the morning. A slight young man in a sports jacket sat hunched over with his chin on his chest, the remnants of a greasy meal spread out before him. He was out cold. As we settled down with our own little burger bundles we spotted a young woman tucked away in the corner. She had her coat wrapped snugly around her as she dozed.

12. Shibuya Crossing

On the topics of crowdedness and Shibuya, one of my favourite places in Tokyo was Shibuya Crossing. It is a large four-way intersection, overlooked by enormous, loud TV screens and a Starbucks café. Every couple of minutes the traffic lights turn red, paving the way for a human tide that rushes in from all four directions, combining into a seething mass in the middle, then dispersing in the other four directions. A few stragglers make the bold dash as the pedestrian bar counts down, often holding up traffic with their audacious bid to get to the other side. It was truly mesmerising to behold — I spent a good hour transfixed by the flow of humanity before me. Try YouTubing ‘Shibuya Crossing’ to see for yourself.

A shadow has smothered the Chinese capital for several months.  As Beijingers like myself wake up each day, we pull back the curtains of our windows and hope for light. But despite being well below the Arctic Circle, there are days we never see the sun.

The darkness isn’t just fog, but toxic smog – “a suffocating siege,” as the state-owned People’s Daily newspaper vividly put it. Even on clear days, the air is laden with heavy metals, diesel and coal.

Last month, PM 2.5 – air particles measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter – hit a new high, at one point flying 40 times above the World Health Organisation’s safe recommendation (25) to 900 – a level it rates “fatal” to breathe.

The key causes, according to the government, are cars and coal. There are more than 200 million cars on China’s roads, most of which use diesel. As we drove through the hazardous haze of January, I asked my taxi driver what he thought of it. To my shock, he slammed his hands on the wheel and broke down. “My eyes are burning. I can’t see.”

Then there’s coal, which China’s millions of factories depend on. 75 percent of China’s energy comes from the black fuel – burning more than the rest of the world combined. Little wonder then that according to the Asia Development Bank and Tsinghua University this year, of the World’s 10 most polluted cities, seven are in China.

The effects of air pollution on the human body have become increasingly apparent. A deputy director at the Beijing Health Bureau said while the rate of smoking has barely shifted in the city over the last decade, the rate of lung cancer has jumped by 60 percent.

In the worst week last month, hospital admissions surged 30 percent, with many patients suffering respiratory infections including pneumonia. Before using my air purifier, I felt the full effects. For days, my stomach was seized in agony. My head burst with pain every time I stood up. I would go to bed nauseous and wake up 10 hours later feeling worse, spitting blood.

But what the smog may have done to my colleague’s five-month old baby boy scares me more. “On his 19^th day, I took him downstairs outside our apartment to feel the sun on his skin,” she recalled. “All the grandmas yelled at me and told me I was crazy, the air would kill him. Since then, he hasn’t been outside.”

Even then, the air is as hazy inside as it is outside – but air purifiers don’t come cheap. Good ones cost RMB 3,600 on Taobao. While less effective models still set you back RMB 500-600. PM3 facemasks, which block out the tiny PM 2.5 particles that imbed deep in the lungs, cost roughly RMB 300, or RMB 900 for a family of 3.

Not everyone can invest in these reassurances, when the average salary is RMB 4,600 in Beijing.  For my colleague, who earns RMB 6,000 and spends more than half that on rent and the rest on diapers and groceries, safe air is unaffordable.

Aside from health costs, people are paying for pollution on their grocery bills. After smog spread over 1.3 million square kilometres from Beijing to Chongqing, low visibility forced 30 major inter-province highways to temporarily close, keeping farm produce from cities. The Ministry of Commerce said smog sparked shrinking supplies, causing prices of vegetables and pork – the staple meat – to tick up almost 2 percent in one week.

And if people are feeling the pinch from pollution, then the government’s biggest concern – inflation – is likely to grow.

The Rat — 鼠 (子) (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Water) 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

Tenacious, observant, charismatic, witty, industrious, determined, talkative, eloquent, imaginative, energetic and highly curious, the Rat makes great company and is great in business too, for they can be shrewd. It is full of good advice for friends, but will seldom share their problems with others. The Rat fears failure. Its spirit is difficult to break and is capable of surviving any situation, with quick-witted charm. An incredibly social creature, the Rat is always meeting new people, but has trouble ending old relationships. It is most compatible with those ambitious creatures in the first-trine  — the Dragon and Monkey.

A much better year than the one before awaits you. You will find personal fulfillment and may reap vast rewards from your business or gain upward mobility at work. Doors will open to you. But 65-year old rats, test the water first – you are either be recovering from, or about to see, a health affliction. Try to resist temptation to make lots of money. You still need rest more than you realise, or your health will suffer.

 The Ox — 牛 (丑) (Water buffalo in Vietnam) (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Water) 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

 Dependable, ambitious, calm, methodical, born-leader, patient, resolute, conventional, steady, modest and a good parent, the Ox believes that the road to success involves hard work and does not believe in shortcuts. It enjoys working in teams and listening to others, but makes decisions based on their own research, rendering them strong leaders. It can be dogmatic, rigid, stubborn and overbearing. The Ox is not much of a ‘party animal’ — it dislikes small talk and favours life-long friendships to casual acquaintances. The Ox is most compatible with equally rational, second-trine creatures: Snakes and Roosters, though it could be fascinated with the intuitive Rabbit.

A glorious year lies in store for you. Conservative like yourself, the snake and rooster are your closest allies. You are sitting on a star of golden Deity, bringing cosmic blessings, energy and strength. Things will simply go your way and you will also feel more determined. You could well be in line for a promotion at work, so now is the time to knock on doors. Your family relationships will be more stable and you could find love this year.

 The Tiger — 虎 (寅) (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Wood) 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

A brave, exciting, independent, expressive, eccentric, colourful, competitive, daring, vigorous, energetic, sincerely affectionate, rebellious, humanitarian and generous creature. Restless, the Tiger craves new challenges at work and masters new skills quickly. It tends to overwork and exhaust itself, which can compromise its health. The Tiger can also be reckless, obstinate, aggressive and moody. It tends to dominate in relationships and can be difficult with stronger characters, but will never bore its partner, with its innate sense of adventure and creative passion. Trustworthy and deeply protective of loved ones, the Tiger is most compatible with its third-trine honest companions — the Horse and Dog — but could also work with an Ox, if it doesn’t exhaust it.

The snake will slow you down, but this can still be a year of steady progress. You can still make a killing, but not without a fight. Luck is not on your side so make decisions carefully, especially if you run your own business. You risk being robbed or cheated, so be less trusting. You could also feel less energetic than your usual self, so try to do things that lift your energy. On the plus side, if you are single, you could find love this year!

The Rabbit — 兔 / 兎 (卯) (Cat in Vietnam) (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Wood) 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011

A gracious, sensitive, diplomatic, elegant, articulate, cautious, artistic, thorough, tender, self-assured, astute, nimble, organised, kind, classy, sensual, well-mannered, good friend. Lucky, the Rabbit often finds itself in the right place at the right time. It avoids aggressive people and holds underestimated power for reading others and resolving disputes, turning enemies into friends. The rabbit is also a party animal and well received by others. Highly creative, it adores art, decorating, entertaining in its home and collecting objects of beauty. The Rabbit also likes to create an exciting life for itself romantically and seeks as much la dolce vita as possible. Somewhat self-indulgent and superficial, it will banish anything that threatens its safety. The Rabbit is promiscuous, but once settled, remains loyal. It craves stability and can find it with those who will not take advantage of its giving nature and who is equally likely to value artistic pursuits, such as the Sheep or Pig..

Professionally, things look promising and a pay rise is likely. You will get more opportunities and your employer is likely to put more trust in you. But you will also have less energy and the ‘Three Killings’ star – financial loss, accidents and arguments. Avoid business expansions, risky investments, renovations, maintenance work or adventure sports. Get plenty of sleep to prevent mood swings. Take care of relationships with your partner and colleagues. Don’t let quarrels escalate or over-work yourself. You may need a luck medallion, too.

The Dragon — 龍 / 龙 (辰)(Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Wood) 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012

 A magnanimous, imperious, loyal, vigorous, bold, self-assured, mystic, generous, dignified, intellectual, passionate, decisive, pioneering, powerful, noble, yet humble character. Free-spirited, the Dragon loathes rules and seeks to lead. It will embark upon tremendous pursuits, with exceptional outcomes. Often impetuous and demanding, the Dragon is unafraid of challenges or conflict and can be tactless. Despite an overwhelming tendency to succeed, it rarely feels fulfilled. The Dragon will readily help others, but refuse to ask for help itself. Charismatic, the Dragon commands the attention of those around it, but its independent nature means it may make few close bonds and marry later, enjoying companions who are quirky and intriguing. The Dragon needs a spacious home to move through. Partners must have a tough skin, for the Dragon can have a vengeful temper, but its affection is deep — its love for spouse and family fierce and unwavering. It is most compatible with the tenacious Rat and Monkey, in the first-trine.

A dazzling year awaits you. Dream big, because anything is possible for you right now. You will charm your way to the top and connections will ignite around you. You will also find many small triumphs along the way. You will have plenty of luck on your side as well as an abundance of energy to make it happen. But spend with caution and be wary of gossip around you. Also, avoid driving or being in cars when possible – your chance of a crash is higher this year.

The Snake — 蛇 (巳) (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Fire) 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

A deeply analytical, wise, content, creative, elegant, prudent, shrewd, cautious, intuitive, intelligent, sensual, calm and constant creature. The Snake has an extremely powerful mind and possible psychic abilities. A hedonist, it likes to surround itself with the finest luxuries life can offer and is very affected by its surroundings. It craves a life of calm order — its health depends upon it. It enjoys gliding lazily along at its own pace, yet when required, can strike at the speed of light and meet targets not just quickly, but brilliantly. The Snake excels with minimal effort. Relying on cool logic, it makes decisions with a level head. The snake is a quiet creature that prefers to be left alone and decides on its companions carefully. While it will never start a fight, it can be lonely, distrustful and cold. However, the snake has the propensity to care far deeper for loved ones than it would appear. Stylish, it knows how to catch the attention of others and will be the one to determine if the relationship progresses. It may guard partners as prized possessions, seldom reveal emotions and once betrayed, never forgive. Its best suitors are the practical Rooster or Ox in the second-trine.

It’s your year, sinuous one. Though it won’t be magical, it will be better than 2012. Your wealth and career luck will be strong, with many small windfalls, taking your business and reputation further, especially in creative industries. You will also be more attractive to those around you and could find many admirers, so try to be more confident. Also, be careful not to exhaust yourself mentally and physically, as you have less energy this year – which you must save for your work, to reap the rewards.

The Horse — 馬 / 马 (午) (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Fire) 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002

A humorous, outgoing, quick-witted, changeable, earthy, perceptive, agile, magnetic, intelligent, astute, flexible and open-minded creature, the Horse enjoys being around people. It is able to multi-task and grasps new tasks with ease, but may not always finish what it begins and dislikes routine. The Horse enjoys being outdoors and will feel unwell or claustrophobic in small spaces. It can also be arrogant, childish, anxious, rude and stubborn. While typically fearful of commitment, a Horse can fall hard and fast for partners and give more to a relationship than it gets back. However, this changes later in life, when it can have more stable and fulfilling relationships with an honest Dog or Tiger, in the third-trine.

Opportunities abound for you this year. The Horse will gallop into 2013 with the potential of turning ordinary events into enormous windfalls. You have business luck on your side this year, especially if setting up a new venture. But whether you have the stamina to continue is the question. Your energy is less strong, so strategise carefully to avoid wasting it. You are also sitting on a magnifying star, meaning good or bad will be doubled. While most of your stars are good this year, there is a Money Leak star. Avoid financial risks – and trust no one.

The Sheep — 羊 (未) (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Fire) 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003

A righteous, sincere, intelligent, sympathetic, mild-mannered, shy, creative, mothering, peaceful, security-seeking, dependable and generous creature. The Sheep can at times feel overwhelmed by stronger characters, as they tend to be passive and weak-willed. It can also be a somewhat indecisive worrier and is more inclined to complain than be proactive. A wanderer, the Sheep needs few elaborate possessions, but will spend on the finer things in life. While able to focus extremely well at work, loved ones are always more important to it than its career. Home alone or with its partner is where the Sheep feels most comfortable. Though it spends much time absorbed in thought, common sense prevails. It enjoys expressing its artistic side, be it through cooking or painting. While its fragile exterior hides the fact that it is generally healthy, the Sheep may become depressed and unwell if their loved one is away. Its nurturing, calm personality renders the Sheep a caring parent. It is compatible with the Rabbit and Pig in the fourth trine.

A mixed year for you, but better than the last. You are likely to get a promotion or pay rise, especially if you have a business partner or boss who is a Horse. You have also been blessed with energy this year, so you will feel more motivated. Unfortunately, there is also a Blockage Star meaning things will not always go smoothly. Opportunities that arise will be more challenging then they first appear, so be ready to work harder than you thought. You must also pay attention to what you eat and how you sleep to ward off a Magnifying Sickness star. Wealth wise, you should do well. Single sheep can expect to find love – but those with love already must work harder to keep it.

The Monkey — 猴 (申) (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Metal) 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968 1980, 1992, 2004

Inventor, motivator, improviser, quick-witted, curious, flexible, innovative, problem solver, self-assured, sociable, polite, dignified, competitive, objective, factual, intellectual. Playful, mischievous and clever, the Monkey is a master of practical jokes, which can either entertain or upset those around it. It loves to be challenged and thrives among people in big cities. Active, rarely ill and remarkably adaptable, the Monkey draws many fans and is successful in any career. It can be vain, reckless, manipulative and suspicious. When it comes to relationships, the Monkey is promiscuous and may settle down later in life. Easily bored, the Monkey needs a partner who can constantly amaze them — once found, all ‘monkey business’ ends and the Monkey will commit to that person in every aspect of their life, especially those from the first-trine Rat or Dragon years, but will expect their respect.

Anything is achievable this year and you barely have to lift a finger, thanks to the stars aligning for you. Success like you have never experienced is now within reach and a major deal could happen. However, you suffer the worst energy and self-esteem of any animal this year. Surround yourself with positive people who will cheer you on so you can shine. You may even want to invest in crystal balls to boost your confidence. Your lack of energy is also compounded by an illness star and the Three Killings (see ‘Rabbit’), so take every ailment seriously. On a positive note, your love luck is wonderful this year, so don’t hold back.

The Rooster — 雞 / 鸡 (酉) (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Metal) 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005

A meticulous, organised, scientific, alert, self-assured, decisive, resourceful, egotistical, practical, perfectionist, good friend and responsible parent. Abrasive and critical at times, the Rooster is honest to a fault and expects the same from others. It enjoys entertaining as the centre of attention, seeking listeners for its stories. It insists on a tidy home and is always immaculately dressed. While it seems flashy, the Rooster is in fact very conservative and can teach others a thing or two about right and wrong. Its aggressive nature renders it suitable to conflict. The Rooster is active and healthy, but if it takes on too much, becomes stressed and moody. Highly self-motivated, the Rooster will enjoy a successful career. It is more inclined to lecture others, than accept their advice. The chicken’s bossy approach can upset sensitive creatures, yet it will always be the first to come to their aid. It will do well to marry a patient Pig, or a rational Ox or Snake (in the second-trine) who will realise that beneath the Rooster’s tough exterior lies a heart overflowing with love.

New positions or lucrative projects will emerge for you this year, keeping you busy and important at work, just the way you like it. Business will thrive and you can enjoy great success, but there may be some setbacks, including internally – your own lack of motivation and will. You could become moody and negative, which would jeopordise your beady eye for spotting opportunities. You also have the potential to make new friends, but beware – the Flying Violence star is in your home. Be careful of who you invite around and be especially careful of robberies. Those with evil intentions will go to great lengths to gain your trust. You may even want to invest in a blue elephant facing west in your home. Also, avoid driving or being in cars – you have more chance of a crash this year.

The Dog — 狗 / 犬 (戌) (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Metal) 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

Honest, intelligent, straightforward, loyal, attractive, amicable, unpretentious, sociable, open-minded, likeable, stylish, idealistic, moralistic, practical, affectionate, sensitive and easy-going. The Dog is a good friend and will always offer kind words, support and advice to others, often becoming deeply involved in others’ lives and may be seen as nosy. Ensuring that others are happy is the most important thing to the Dog. The Dog is honest, trustworthy and has a strong sense of justice and fair play. It spends on practical items rather than luxuries and keeps a neat, organised home, saving money for future expenses. The Dog can be cynical, judgmental, anxious, pessimistic, stubborn and quarrelsome and is most compatible with the witty Horse or energetic Tiger, in the third trine.

You will be glad to know 2013 will be a kinder year to you than 2012. A lot more luck will be on your side. Your finances, your relationships, social life and health will all improve. A Heavenly Star is watching over you, bringing prosperity to the patriarch of the family or head of your company. You will have more stamina and enthusiasm. Despite less success luck, your career should still develop steadily. However, you suffer the star facing the Three Killings (see ‘Rabbit’) which may brew quarrels. 79-year old dogs must also take extra care of their health.

Pig — 豬 / 猪 (亥) (Boar in Japan and Elephant in Northern Thailand) (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Water) 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

Gallant, peaceful, patient, dependable, gracious, artistic, trusting, sincere, calm, supportive, loyal, understanding, thoughtful, considerate, passionate, intelligent, proud and hard-working. The Pig is a giving soul, reaping happiness most when helping others. It is exceptionally scrupulous and honest and expects others to be too. The Pig seeks peace and will do whatever is necessary to maintain it, helping others tremendously while expecting little in return. This makes the Pig easy to take advantage of, for it can also be naïve, gullible and fatalistic. As lovers of luxury and fairly inactive creatures, the Pig also tends to over indulge, with more chance of being unhealthy. At work, the Pig is professional, creative, detail — oriented and reliable. It never approaches a task without first formulating a plan. The Pig is also a fair leader. In marriage, the Pig will commit for life. It is compatible with other fourth-trine artistic creatures such as the Rabbit and Sheep, but also suited to the pragmatic Rooster.

You have two big auspicious stars in your chart this year, which could change your life for the better – from finding love, to clinching a major client, being chosen for a big contract or being promoted. You will be healthy with strong energy. But despite this, your success luck is less strong, so you must work harder than you think, even after securing good fortune. You will have an entertaining social life and feel more amourous this year. Be careful of friends who may misinterpret your friendliness as something more! Your health luck is good, but be careful of falling down. Avoid trekking and watch your step.

 A happy, healthy and fulfilling new year to one and all from AERIS!

1. In your view, how important is tradition and how important is innovation in Italian luxury leather products?

I often receive questions about tradition and innovation. Can the tradition exist without innovation and vice versa? What does it mean Innovation and tradition these days?

2. My first thought is about Hong Kong and China.  Could they be so successful today without having such a long culture and history?

I don’t think so.  The same is for a population and a company. Culture and knowledge are part of our lives and essential base for a healthy society.

This is what 100 years of history Giorgio Fedon and Sons gives its clients: tradition and innovation at the same time. We are introducing new modern concepts, without changing our heritage.

3. What have you done differently for Chinese consumers?

Before entering a new market, we always study the culture and needs of our clients.

The customer who is used to carrying light and practical items cannot get used to big and bulky products, so we design new collections with our clients in mind.

In China, like in the rest of the World, we want to distinguish the business man and the traveler with practical and elegant solutions, meeting the needs of local clients without losing our identity.

4. Do you think in the future Chinese consumers will care less about owning brands and more about owning quality?

These days, Chinese clients have an increasingly strong awareness of quality. They like to purchase items that not only have a name, but also a history. But in future Chinese will be more demanding and will expect higher quality, regardless the brand’s origin.

Giorgio Fedon 1919 has a long history in high quality and high design, which make us proud to export our brand worldwide. But we also believe Chinese customers will appreciate our high standards in selecting the best materials and the most desirable styles.

5. How is the competition between European brands in China?

These days, the competition is high in any sector. Some brands are more popular than ours, but we believe our customers appreciate GIORGIO FEDON 1919 for his uniqueness.

The market is changing fast and China is growing faster than any other place in the world. From our research, we noticed there is a high demand for items with a harmonic and balanced beauty.

6. Is it not the search of harmony one of the pillars of Chinese Culture?

A good design is about the right harmony of colors and shapes. For us, the meaning of high quality is competence for making a product appreciated by our clients.

We purchase a product because we like it and because is telling us a story. Though we have ahead a long journey, we are sure Giorgio Fedon 1919 will retain its traditions and heritage.