BEHIND THE GATE: A LOOK INSIDE PISCO PORTÓN AND THE OLDEST DISTILLERY IN THE AMERICAS

Sometimes you tell stories over a drink and sometimes the drink is the story. To Peruvians, the history and tradition of Peru is entwined in the story of its national spirit, pisco. Honoring this heritage is what Pisco Portón, the makers of the most awarded pisco, do best. With a techno-artisanal distillery and estate-owned vineyards, the story of Pisco Portón is as unique and steeped in tradition as pisco itself.

For the uninitiated, pisco is a distilled white spirit made entirely of grapes with a 400-year- old pedigree. It has its roots in the 1560’s when the Spanish imported grape vines to the Ica Valley on the south western coast of Peru with the intent of making wine for use during the Catholic mass. Production grew, but feeling threatened and in an act of protectionist pique, the Spanish crown began imposing heavy taxes on Peruvian wine entering Spain. In an act of rebellion, vineyard owners turned toward distillation of the grapes instead and pisco was born.

Pisco has what only a handful of other spirits can claim: a Denomination of Origin. That means all pisco must be made in a specific region along the south western coast of Peru and under the strictest of guidelines, including the use of eight specific aromatic and non-aromatic grape varietals. The grape juice must be fermented with naturally occurring wild yeast, distilled only once in traditional copper pot stills, and left un-aged or unaltered, meaning that not even water is added to the finished product. Finally, it must be left to rest in non-reactive vessels such as concrete so only the flavors of the grapes are evident.

Pisco Portón’s Master Distiller, Johnny Schuler

In 2011, after living in Peru and developing a passion for pisco’s heritage and distinctive flavors, father and son team Bill and Brent Kallop set about bringing the finest expression of Peruvian pisco to the United States. Enlisting the aid of Johnny Schuler as their Master Distiller – who is internationally recognized as the foremost pisco expert in the world and received the Peruvian Congressional Medal of Honor for his work regulating the pisco industry—they purchased Hacienda La Caravedo, the oldest distillery in the Americas, established in 1684 by Juan Facundo Caravedo Roque. Here traditional production methods such as a wooden usillo are used to press the grapes, gravity-fed distillation is used to gently extract the flavors, and traditional wood-fired copper pot falcas distill the spirit. In addition, a state-of- the-art distillery with a lush rooftop garden to offset natural carbon dioxide emissions, and a water treatment system that recycles water from the distillation process to irrigate the vineyards, are also employed. The grapes are estate-grown with the utmost care and dedication to environmental stewardship.

From this combination of old and new technologies, Pisco Portón Mosto Verde was born and has become the number one exported pisco from Peru to the United States and the recipient of over 150 awards and accolades for its taste and quality. An acholado, or blend, in the mosto verde style, Pisco Portón Mosto Verde is made from the quebranta, torontel, italia, and albilla grapes and exceeds the standards for a traditional mosto verde pisco by containing 18 pounds of grapes in every bottle and resting for a minimum of one year to ensure the fullest flavors. They have also brought Pisco Portón Acholado and La Caravedo Quebranta to the United States, with more expressions available soon. The portfolio delivers the sophistication of the mosto verde, the complexity of the acholado, and the distinctiveness of the puro that provide a unique cocktail experience.

Tours of Hacienda La Caravedo are available and visitors pass through the original gate that welcomes them inside the lush vineyards and stunning distillery, with the Andes mountains as a backdrop to over 150 acres which includes the vineyards, distillery, tasting room, horse stables, restaurant, and boutique hotel. While a trip to Ica and Hacienda La Caravedo is a wonderful journey, one only has to sip a Pisco Portón Mosto Verde cocktail for an experience as bold as those who discover it.

Add Pisco Portón to your summer parties with these cocktail recipes:
PORTÓNERO
– 2 oz Pisco Portón Mosto Verde
– 1⁄2 oz fresh lime juice
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Top with ginger ale or ginger beer

Directions:
Build in a glass filled with ice by adding Pisco Portón Mosto Verde, lime juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters. Top with ginger ale or ginger beer. Gently stir and garnish with a lime.

PORTÓN PISCO PUNCH

– 1 (750ml) bottle of Pisco Portón Mosto Verde
– 12.75 oz. simple syrup
– 8.5 oz fresh pineapple juice
– 8.5 oz fresh lime juice
– Abundant ice

Directions:
Mix all ingredients in punch bowl or beverage dispenser. Serve in rocks glasses lled with ice. Garnish with pineapple chunks.

There are three styles of pisco: puro, which is made from only one of the eight approved grape varietals; acholado, which is a blend of two or more of the eight varietals; and mosto verde, a style applicable to either a puro or an acholado in which only the must, or freshly pressed juice of the grape, is partially fermented and results in the highest level of avor and aroma. While puro and acholado piscos require about eight pounds of grapes to make a bottle, a mosto verde pisco requires at least 16 pounds.

For more information and cocktail recipes, visit piscoporton.com. To book a tour of Hacienda La Caravedo or to inquire about a stay at the boutique hotel, contact [email protected] or call the o ce in Lima at +511 711 7800

SALTAIR

From capricious seafood creations like carpaccios to crudos, Chef Brandi Key, has spun the seafood-restaurant scene on it’s head with her globally-influenced fare at Houston’s swank restaurant, SaltAir. She created the menu with goal of establishing a new original for seafood, taking cues from the Gulf, as well as Houston’s own diverse, multi-cultural palate.

“I want you to be a little surprised whenyou get here,” offers Chef Brandi Key. “We always wanted to do a seafood restaurant. Being here on the Gulf, everybody loves seafood. But we didn’t want to copycat [that standard].” Boasting a warmly-lit 28-seat raw bar, anchored idyllically by a exotic Birchwood tree, SaltAir offers a dining experience sure to linger into the evening. We had a chance to chat with Chef Brandi and delve into her creative process here as Executive Chef.

When did you first know that you wanted to become a chef and work in the food industry?

I didn’t really know that I wanted to be a chef. I was supposed to go off and be a career woman. My sophomore year in college, I had the opportunity to go to New York and really got to see some very cool things in the food industry. One day a friend told me about an opening for a position at a restaurant. It was Pappadeaux, and I walked in and the guy was like, “You have a business degree and a double major, double minor with accounting and finance, and marketing? Why do you want to work at a restaurant?” I just got bit by “the bug” honestly. I grew up cooking, but I never thought that I would do it in an actual restaurant setting day in and day out. But as soon as I walked in, that was it.

Can you describe what the creative process has been like in your experience working with SaltAir and partnering restaurants that you’ve opened?

There’s always multiple layers for us as a group. I am one piece of it and that is what I’m a specialist at. For the restaurant itself, we wanted to create an ambience that was very comfortable and inviting, that you could dine in for hours. There’s also a creative process that happens with the kitchen where I actually draw out kitchen floor plans according to equipment needs for the specific type of cuisine being prepared. And then there’s the menu process. I spent a good four to six months on the menu here, really hashing through different ideas. So we spent hours on these dishes, thinking about every component, every layer that could be fit into the cook line without compromising quality or freshness.

Do you have a favorite signature dish that you like to prepare?

Here at SaltAir, I love the octopus carpaccio. That one’s really good. The other thing that I really like here is our whole fish because I think a lot of people are still intimidated by a whole fish because they’re terrified of their dinner staring back at them. For me it’s special if I can prepare a dish for you and you eat it in it’s entirety. If I can make it easier for you to dig in and eat a whole bronzini, then I know I can get you to eat a whole flounder or whatever else may be out of your comfort zone.

So you feel responsible in a way to educate your consumer?

Honestly, any time somebody asks me what is it that I do, I will always tell them that I teach. I teach more than I do anything else. I teach the chefs how to be good cooks. I teach the managers how to be good managers. I teach financials how to actually run a profitable business. I teach guests how to eat. And I think you’ll find that most chefs are good teachers. We have to be able to get what we’ve envisioned in our head, manifest it, and then instill that same passion and process into someone else.

What challenges have you had to overcome in pursuing your dreams to become an executive chef?

I think one of the biggest challenges has been understanding the physical demands that happen in a restaurant. It’s a lot of long hours, and a lot of time on your feet. I manage a lot of different people and different cuisines, so I have to keep myself organized in order to get from A to B.

And what sorts of cuisines are you inspired by right now at this moment?

What’s great about SaltAir is that it allows for a lot of creativity. I love the Cape and what fish are available from that region. The Pacific Northwest is really fun with totally different type of environment, and different products that can be sourced for us. I’ve always enjoyed the Mediterranean, and have been inspired by Northern African and Middle Eastern flavors.

What’s the best piece of advice that you received in pursuing your career?

People are always saying to me, “I want your job! how do I get your job?” If you’re interested in the work and what we do every day, don’t be doing anything else. For instance, don’t go to school for a business degree if you really want to be in the food industry. If you really want to cook, then you need to come get a line-cook position and see what a line’s like. And if you get bit by “the bug” and you love it, then you need to keep doing that. I think the most important thing for young people right now coming into this industry is making sure that they understand what that good basis of technique is because this business can have a lot of “fluff”. You need to know how to tourne a carrot, not because I’m going to ask you to tourne a carrot, but because for thousands of years, all these people who’ve been setting the path for what we do today tourned a carrot.

What chefs do you admire right now?

I think, collectively-speaking, I admire the chefs in Copenhagen have helped to really push some very interesting dishes that are going to continue to happen. Most people only think about Rene Redzepi at Noma and he’s fantastic! However, some of those restaurants there have lived longer than Noma’s been on the map. Here in the United States, I’ve always admired Cindy Pawlcyn. She’s one of those old school people that started a business in the middle of Napa Valley, before the Napa Valley was the Napa Valley. Now Mustards Grill is an iconic place. She really understands the whole art of taking care of people and making people feel special simply by providing good food without the “fluff” factor– just the true art and nature of cooking. There’s so many, I could go on and on.

Houston is such a foodie town. There’s so much competition with restaurants. How do you set yourself apart?

I think what’s interesting with our group is that we’ve been around for 14 years. A good portion of our clientele
is like family to us. It’s a little bit easier for us because we listen and talk to them like family. They actively give us feedback. This allows us to always be adapting, making changes to ensure that things are good. We know how to talk and react to people, and give the people what they want. We don’t rely on attention- getting strategies or food-prep techniques to attract our customers. At the end of the day, everything that happens in these four walls is the only way that I can truly dictate if we’re going to be successful or not.

Photography by Dustin Mansyur | Styling by Marc Sifuentes | Art Direction by Louis Liu | Hair & Makeup by MakeupByDiego | Interview by Dustin Mansyur

For reservation or information about SaltAir Seafood Kitchen, call 713-521-3333 or visit saltairhouston.com

NICOLE WINHOFFER

IRIS01_FITNESS_NICOLE_01

Photography by Dustin Mansyur | Styling by Marc Sifuentes | Art Direction by Louis Liu | Interview by Dustin Mansyur

With an A-list roster of clients including Madonna, Stella McCartney, and Rachel Weisz, and expanding her classes for the public at NYC hotspots like the Standard Hotel, Nicole Winhoffer has successfully built the foundation for her fitness empire. Inspired by art, dance, music, fashion, and pop culture, the fitness-lifestyle guru gives us training tips and shares healthy practices for the mind, body and spirit.

Nicole’s approach is holistic, incorporating her western knowledge of anatomy and sport science with dance and eastern practices that focus on chakras, acupuncture points, and energy work. The NW Method has played a leading role in shaping some of the best bodies in the entertainment industry, including, Madonna, Mya, Stella McCartney, Steven Klein, and Rachel Weisz. We sat down with the fitness mogul-in- the-making to inquire all things NW.

You have worked with an incredible roster of A-list clients and have steadily built your fitness empire to include classes in the New York City area so that others might also get an opportunity to train with you, how did you come to pursue fitness as a career?

I was always intrigued by the anatomy, physiology, and mind of the human body. Dancing, sports, and choreography introduced me to ways to keep myself fit and mentally clear, while doing what I love. When you feel fit, you feel strong; when you feel strong you feel beautiful. Being able to help others realize the beauty in themselves is what led me to pursue fitness as a career. Movement and music helped me to get mental, emotional, and physical results. I want to share it with the world.

The NW Method is a very interesting blend of cultural & scientific influences, how would you describe your approach to anyone interested in training with you for the first time?

My approach is self-expression through movement, cardio and sweat. It’s new, its creative, it’s a real life way to integrate art, music, fashion, and movies to tell a story with your body. My VIP clients are in the entertainment industry and it’s beautiful to collaborate with other artists that keep the world moving through the arts.

Any advice you give to a first time client before their first session with you?

Commit to change. There is ALWAYS a solution. With the right knowledge and tools you can master anything. Positivity and energy are two must haves at all of your sessions with me. Energy is everything ! Did you know your body is 75% water? Water responds to thoughts ! Everything is vibration.

What are you currently working on in New York?

I am about to open up my studio, videos and live streaming. I have new movements and classes that I am so excited about ! Roc Nation management and I are working on new projects!

Any plans for global expansion, I see your offering NW certification courses?

Yes, I encourage anyone with a passion for fitness to certify themselves and begin professionally inspiring others. There are many plans for global expansion that we are very excited about! We currently have trainers in India, London, Prague, and the Unites States. I gather my inspiration from cultures because each city brings something special and new to the world. It is beautiful and inspiring.

You have a very active schedule, aside from fitness and working out. Do you have a beauty secret or regimen you want to share?

My beauty secret is making time for myself. Making sure I get enough rest, occasional massages and healthy eating lifestyles are what keep my inner beauty glowing. Curiosity is important because it keeps the brain young. When a child is curious, they are inventing and wondering. This ignites new brain neurons and fires the so serious spirit.

Any new favorite wardrobe pieces or workout gear that you can’t live without?

I absolutely love my Adidas by Stella McCartney pieces. My Adidas hoodies and shell toe sneakers are always in my bag. I always keep a change of clothes in my bag that includes a leotard, booty shorts and a hoodie. I love the duality of showing my body and layering. It’s sexy.

Because your work relies on your teaching abilities and active engagement with clients, I imagine it is important to always be creating new or individualized routines . What inspires you to keep your work fresh and creative?

I am constantly inspired by everything around me. Sports, fashion, art, it all inspires me to create something that is reflective of “now”. When you live in the moment, you evolve with it. I get bored easily and if I am bored I know I am not expanding or growing. I look to things that run my imagination and move my brain and body.

Any places, trips, or experiences that provide you with that creative recharge when you need it?

I have a fond place in my heart for Brazil. Their culture is so beautiful and free. The people their have a welcomeness and movement that makes me feel at home.

What is your favorite thing to do to unwind or manage stress?

Music, dance and breathing. Sometimes I forget to breathe. We are in such a fast pace society and we move to that rhythm. When I play music, I get lost in the beat and I am free.

Your brand embraces a very strong, body- positive attitude. What kind of advice would you give your younger self, or younger women in general?

Stay positive and visualize. What you think about yourself is how others see you. The power of the mind is our greatest tool. I think its important for women to know they are great just the way they are. All the time you spend trying to fit in only takes you further from your true self. Smile at your self in the mirror, make yourself blush, and be the woman you want to be! You have the power.

Conversely, what is the best advice that you have ever received?

Be the woman you want to be! Think like her! Act like her and dance like you.

What makes you feel powerful?

Moving to the best music. When I sweat I feel sexy.

For anyone who is striving to reach personal health and fitness goals.What is a great 15 minute routine that can be done before work in the morning?

Dance. Turn on your favorite 5 songs and dance. I wake up to music. My body feels free and clear when I move my morning to beats and set my intention for the day!

What is your go-to 5-minute meal in the morning?

I always start my day with 10 gulps of cold water. Energy is used as your body sleeps, (After you wake up) your body is working and gets dehydrated! I love black coffee and either an egg white omelette or whole grain oats for some glucose energy for my workouts!

It can be a challenge to stay dedicated to fitness for many reasons. How do you stay focused in order to reach goals in fitness or in life?

I make plans and then execute them. We all have dreams, but without a plan they are just wishes. It is a combination of intention, passion, heart, and discipline to share with the world what your imagination and intuition speaks to.

Can you share with us the music that you are currently listening to?

Rihanna – Work
Beyonce – Formation
Justin Bieber – Sorry
Nicky Minaj – Anaconda
Beyonce – Grown Woman
Outcast – The Way You Move
Cello Green – Fool For You

CAPELLA IXTAPA

Between Mexico’s Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, and surrounded by lush, tropical forests lies Capella Ixtapa, a secluded, romantic and exclusive resort whose location is so private it’s like sharing a well-kept secret. Set alongside a stunning rock cliff with endless views of the breathtaking azure blue ocean, Capella Ixtapa offers its guests a hide- away setting that belies the wealth of attractions just minutes away.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is nestled on the Pacific Coast 140 miles north of Acapulco and is part of the “triangulo del sol,” or triangle of the sun, of the Guerrero state in the southern meridional region of Mexico. The Nahauatl dialect word ‘Ixtapa’ means “the white place” in reference to the pristine white sands of the area. Once a coconut plantation close to the quaint fishing village of Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa is now an intimately modern, environmentally-friendly resort area ideal for travelers who prefer small, secluded destinations to bustling cities and major destinations. Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo continues to impress with its natural attributes – from sandy beaches and rugged mountains to exuberant vegetation – setting the stage for some of the finest sport fishing, golf and eco-sports available anywhere. Additionally, the protected waters surrounding Capella Ixtapa are home to a variety of sea life and vegetation. From the moment you arrive at this luxury Zihuatanejo resort, you will be immersed in the Capella experience. An open- air reception area and soothing, warm Pacific breezes welcome you as you transition into your extraordinary, adventure-filled vacation at Capella Ixtapa.

The resort’s design celebrates Mexican culture with a sophisticated blend of modern and traditional design elements. The wonderful intermingling of modern and traditional Mexican touches of textured handmade clay and stone meeting sleek marble and polished hardwoods are seen throughout the resort. This method of construction, honoring the vast heritage of our locale in a cosmopolitan way, has become a Capella Resort trademark.

Capella Ixtapa extends over Don Juan beach, a small stretch of the Pacific coastline, and offers guests the utmost privacy in a stunning environment. Each of the 59 guestrooms and suites cascade down a cliff towards the sea, boasting breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, where stunning rock cliff landscapes meet crashing waves. Each guestroom and suite features a large, private outdoor terrace and an individual plunge pool thoughtfully positioned out of sight from other suites to en- sure privacy. The moment they arrive, guests will feel enveloped in luxury and care, as if they have been warmly welcomed to the estate of a close friend. The Capella experience transcends that of the most luxurious hotel avail- able today, with an array of well-thought- out amenities and intuitive services.

The Spa at Capella Ixtapa, which is the region’s only spa, wellness and fitness facility, featuring 6,000-square- feet of interior space overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In addition, peaceful, exotic outside treatment environments provide the ultimate in pamper- ing and rejuvenation. Each guest is treated to a traditional foot cleanse after being escorted to one of six indoor treatment rooms or the outdoor massage area. In addition to a wide selection of beauty treatments, massages and therapies, a yoga and Pilates deck and fitness area is located at the top of the resort, providing spectacular Pacific Ocean views. Guests may also choose to dine in the privacy of their own private terrace through the resort’s 24-hour room service, or arrange for a special romantic dinner experience at a unique location on the hotel’s grounds.

This private world of splendor is paired with unparalleled luxury, where crowds are left miles away. The luxury five-star retreat of Capella Ixtapa allows guests to get away from it all while revealing a bounty of unsurpassed beauty.

IRIS MAN: DR. TED VOLOYIANNIS

Photography and Interview by Dustin Mansyur | Styling by Marc Sifuentes | Art Direction by Louis Liu | Grooming by MakeupByDiego
Dr. Ted Voloyiannis photographed at his home in Houston, TX. Jacket by Bogosse, Shirt by Hugo Boss, Pants by Gucci, Watch by Rolex Submariner, Necklace: Ancient Roman coin mint in Jerusalem.

He pioneered the creation of innovative, minimally invasive surgical techniques, which are now widely practiced within his field. In addition to these academic accomplishments, he is an active supporter of the Human Rights Campaign. We got to catch up with him to talk about his work and life.

What made you decide to get into medicine and become a surgeon?

I always wanted to help people since I was a kid, but I needed to see the practical results right away. Also, I am very competitive. So, I decided to get into medicine when I was in middle school and to become a surgeon by my second year in medical school. I decided to immigrate when I was 25 from Greece and pursue my surgery training in the US at one of the most competitive programs in the country at Baylor College of Medicine.

You received criticism and scrutiny for the methods you proposed in the surgical procedures that you spearheaded and discovered. Was there a time that someone told you that you couldn’t accomplish all that you have accomplished today?

Yes, a few surgeons who were close to retirement. It still frustrates me because it delayed the innovation in our field. Senior surgeons are often hesitant to adapt new ideas from their younger colleagues. I need to remember not to do the same when I get older!

You’re actually known for your personable and friendly disposition and relationship that you build with patients. How do you try to relate to or connect with your patients as a care provider? Does this practice naturally carry over into your personal life?

Don’t become a doctor if you don’t love listening to your patients. Surgery can not be successful if you can not connect with your patient’s background problems. Being more personal helps alleviate the fear, anxiety of the anticipated surgery and builds trust.
I am usually “accused” of being too nice and trying to help everybody in my personal life even if sometimes this is not feasible.

You are an avid supporter of the Human Rights Campaign, devoting your free time for surgical services which benefit the LGBT community and patients with HIV in need for the greater Houston area. Would you consider yourself an activist?

I am an activist behind the scenes as well as in the operating room; I strongly support the LGBT community’s fight for Equal Rights in our society, the same way I fight daily for excellent surgical care for all my patients regardless of sex, race, religion or sexual orientation.

You and your husband Ivan are interior design enthusiasts, what are some of your favorite pieces that you have collected?

Our favorites are The Baccarat Crystal “Marie Coquine” Floor Lamp by designer Philippe Stark over our dinning table and the Jean Paul Gautier floating master bed!

Do you have a favorite design feature in your apartment?

The master bathroom! It features a unique design that incorporates Italian “Agape” fixtures, digitally printed tile, glass, ipe wood, and infinity views of Houston’s city and skylines!

Additionally, you and Ivan are avid travelers, what are some of your favorite trips you’ve taken & what are some upcoming trips you are excited about?

Other than Greece and Mexico? Israel, Egypt and Brazil were unique trips and now we are getting ready for our first cruise ever in Mediterranean Sea, to be followed by exploring Australia!

What is something you can’t live without when you travel?

I can’t lie: lots of shoes!

What advice would you give to your younger self or to young people in general?

Set great goals early in your life and work hard for them. It will pay off! Don’t go to medical school! (joking)

Words of advice that you live by and whom was it given by?

The first day I started my surgical training, my chief resident said, “Don’t let the demanding multi-year surgery residency training change who you are!”

IRIS WOMAN: MARIANA VALDES DEBES

Interview and Photography by Dustin Mansyur | Styling by Marc Sifuentes | Art Direction by Louis Liu | Hair and Makeup by MakeupByDiego

Mariana Valdes Debes photographed with her dog at her home in Houston, TX. Dress by Helmut Lang, Shoes by Marni, Earrings by Cartier. Behind her, Painting by Rodolfo Morales and Sculpture by Javier Marín

The vivacious art dealer, collector, consultant, and philanthropist knows how to wear many hats with an effortless and sensual bravado. We sat down with her to talk about her creative process and who’s on her radar.

Who are your favorite up-and-coming artists on your radar at the moment?

I would say the Mexican multidisciplinary artist, Nacho Rodriguez Bach, and the international critically-acclaimed Danish artist, Olafur Eliasson. Rodriguez Bach is an artist I have been promoting and representing for several years. He is always reinventing himself.

What kind of art are you drawn to?

I am most drawn to art that is congruent within a historical context. The art that shows me other possibilities of reality, of feeling, of thinking, or being.

For you, is it an emotional / intuitive process or is it a more objective approach when you are deciding artists to collect?

Both. I am first attracted and seduced by an art piece or a body of work, then possessed by it. Before I make a final decision, I get to know the artist and establish a relationship with him or her. I believe this is the most important. By doing this, I get to understand the artists’ body of work from another perspective, and allow myself to make a connection with it.

Do you have a favorite piece that you have collected?

Yes, I acquired a painting 10 years ago called La Romeria by the Mexican artist Alfredo Gisholt. Like every painting, it has a beautiful story behind it. I love it because of it’s amazing power, but also because it was included in the first exhibition I curated for the opening of my gallery in Mexico City. It tells a story from my country through the eyes of an artist who lives and works in Boston. At the same time it is a remarkable painting for the artist itself. It’s just one of those paintings that takes your breath away!

Can you describe what your curatorial process is like when doing an exhibition? What helps you collaborate with the artist?

I always take into consideration that it needs to be eloquent within the context that we are living. Most of the time I don’t follow an established process or a rule since each project is different and is curated for a different audience. I am very spontaneous in the way that I bring up an exhibition, and at the same time I am a perfectionist in every single detail. I prepare with as much information I can obtain and then I allow myself to create a bridge between the artwork and the public for which it is being created, like an alchemist.

Are you working on any upcoming projects to look out for?

The contemporary art world has been transforming rapidly over the past decade. It has expanded its boundaries, making it almost indescribable, yet understandable. There are more collectors and art fairs, but at the same time there is a gap between the art and the its audience. This is the reason that for the last few years, I have been providing art knowledge to a select group of collectors and art enthusiasts called Sensei: “Art Promotion Through Experience”. Through thematic and curated experiences that involve all of the senses, Sensei has as its mission to establish a connection between art and the person, that promotes the development and understanding of artistic values and self awareness.

Are you involved in any upcoming charity events or galas?

Yes, my husband and I have been involved with the gala for St Jude’s Children’s Hospital for the past several years. It is a fantastic organization with a beautiful mission.

What advice would you give to young women who are seeking a career in the arts?

To explore, investigate and renovate constantly looking for their own artistic proposal.

Would you say that it’s important to invest in the arts?

Art enriches your life. It has the unique ability to evoke so many different emotions. A painting can make you happy or sad. It can make you introspective or thoughtful. For this reason alone, I believe that it is very important for our cities and our communities to invest in art. On an individual level, one needs to know that not every artist nor every piece of art will appreciate in value. But if it brings you joy, isn’t that the best investment of all?

IRIS MAN: JOHN VARVATOS

Interview by Miguel Figueroa | Photography by Richard Phibbs @ Art Department

Since the year 2000, John Varvatos has managed to build his eponymous lifestyle brand on his obsession with rock ‘n’ roll. We met up with the New York designer backstage at his latest runway show.

Who are you obsessed with at the moment?

Andrew Watts. Tyler Bryant and The Shakedown. I just signed both groups to my record label.

How old were you when you decided you wanted to be a fashion designer?

In my 20’s.

First supermodel crush?

Cindy Crawford.

What were your initial thoughts when you decided to open a store at the former CBGB night club?

Somebody has to do something here to keep music alive. We can’t let this spot become a bank or a drug store.

Who is your favorite rock star?

Iggy Pop.

When are you the happiest?

At my lake house with family and friends.

An item of clothing you can’t live without?

A leather jacket.

If you could run into teenage John Varvatos, what would you tell him?

Be a sponge. Learn all you can.

What do you think is the best thing about being a man?

Women.

What about the worst?

Women.

IRIS WOMAN: DUYEN NGUYEN

Interview by Dustin Mansyur | Photography by Collin Kelly | Styling by Leslie Rivas

Style maven, art collector, doctor, humanitarian, wife & mother of four. We catch up with Duyen at her new home.

How would you describe your personal sense of style?

I would say my style is classic but not conservative, and absolutely feminine. Comfort and fit are essential to me also.

Which artists are you collecting at the moment?

My husband and I have collected contemporary art over the years from international artists such as Angelbert, Lalla Essaydi, Kajia Loher, Oleg Dou, Maxim Wakultshchik, as well as regional artists like Joe Mancuso and Paul Fleming, to name a few. We’ve recently just added a piece from this up-and-coming artist Joo Young Choi, who will be exhibited at the CAMH next year.

Will you be involved with any charities during the upcoming year? Hosting any events?

I’ve been a supporter of Operation Smile, March of Dimes, and a few other charity organizations in Houston, TX. This year, I have the honor to co-chair Operation Smile’s annual fund-raising gala in April, which I am very excited to be a part of.

What’s the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I’ve ever received was from my mother. When I was young, she would tell me I must have a career of my own so that I could create my own opportunities in life. Luckily I took her words to heart and I’m forever grateful for who I am now.

What advice would you give young women that want to become entrepreneurs like yourself?

I’d say it doesn’t matter what career you choose, you must have true passion, set your goals, and be determined. Passion plus determination will make you unstoppable.

DORADO BEACH – A RITZ CARLTON RESERVE

INFINITY PLUNGE POOL Spacious terrace with personal infinity plunge pool, dining table and chaise lounge

Somewhere between idyllic and perfection sits a Puerto Rico resort of such intimate luxury and rare character, it calls to those who believe every journey should be a voyage of discovery. Once a 1,400-acre sugar plantation owned by the Livingston family, Dorado Beach caught the eye of conservationist visionary Laurance S. Rockefeller, who in the 1950s transformed the lush landscape into one of Puerto Rico’s most exclusive luxury resorts.

An exquisite sanctuary tucked away on the Puerto Rico Caribbean coast, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is one of those special secluded resorts where time not only stands still, it is replete with extraordinary moments. At this private Puerto Rico resort, serenity and casual luxury are intertwined as guests become immersed into their indigenous surroundings – a 50-acre island retreat encircled by coral reefs, blue Caribbean waters and a lush tropical forest. Both new and timeless experiences answer the desire for discovery. This secluded Puerto Rico resort compliments a bespectacled travel experience with a deep- er level of service. The attentive and discreet Embajadores will always be available for any request you have throughout your stay.

Fundamental to Dorado Beach is a passionate environmental philosophy originally instilled by Laurance Rockefeller. The de- sign and infrastructure of the secluded re- sort reflects Dorado Beach’s remarkable surroundings with a myriad of natural elements incorporated throughout. Situated on Puerto Rico’s Caribbean coast, yet worlds away from typical luxury beach resorts, Dorado Beach is an intimate retreat offering a true sense of barefoot elegance among unspoiled views and towering palm trees. Blending Rockefeller’s novel environmental design philosophies and modern, yet minimal décor, this Dorado Beach resort blurs the boundaries between outside and in, creating an open-air enclave that embraces the natural splendor and diverse culture of an unspoiled corner of the world. From the dedicated butler appointed to create an experience tailored to your needs, to the indulgent spas, dining experiences and adventurous recreational opportunities, Dorado Beach is a true luxury sanctuary designed to allure the world’s most discerning travelers.

OCEAN VIEWS Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors showcase a spacious terrace and ocean views

Few homes at Dorado Beach are held with such reverence as Su Casa, which served as Clara Livingston’s beloved residence from 1928 – 1955. One of Miss Livingston’s conditions was that no alterations would be made to Su Casa until the last Livingston was deceased. Now at the VIP villa for Dorado Beach, guests can experience the original Spanish hacienda restored to its original 1920s grandeur. This expansive 8,000-square-foot, five-bedroom villa, complete with a private concierge embajador, extraordinary oceanfront views and a private infinity-edge pool, is nestled among the resort’s palm-fringed beaches and tranquil ocean waters.

With acclaimed chef José Andrés at the helm of his first Caribbean restaurant, Mi Casa, guests can enjoy an epicurean ad- venture that reflects Puerto Rico’s heritage as the crossroads of Spanish, Caribbean and American cuisine. From outdoor dining on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, experience a savory blend of delectable flavors, innovative dishes prepared by a culinary mastermind and a refreshing blend of fresh handcrafted cocktails prepared with many ingredients from the resorts own gardens.

Tucked away amid lush flora is Spa Botánico, a five-acre botanical sanctuary of pampering offering a holistic yet modern approach to beauty and wellness. This relaxing enclave blends lush surroundings, a soothing natural environment and the finest quality of local botanicals and ingredients to enhance tranquility and revitalize the senses. From the Apothecary Portal that welcomes you into this relaxing realm, to the gar- dens that produce the healing properties of many of our indigenous treatments, Spa Botánico coaxes each of your senses into a heightened state of focus.

Relax to the sights and sounds of lush greenery and East Beach’s striking ocean vistas