January 4, 2023
IMAX Delivers Second Biggest Global Opening of All Time with Massive $48.8 Million Debut of James Cameron's "Avatar: The Way of Water."
IMAX Global Network Delivers 11.2% of the Film’s Worldwide Gross, Including Record-Breaking 27% of the Box Office in China
“Avatar: The Way of Water” Claims Crown as Biggest IMAX December Global Opening Ever
NEW YORK, January 03, 2023 — IMAX Corporation announced that moviegoers returned to Pandora in droves with James Cameron’s groundbreaking sci-fi sequel “Avatar: The Way of Water” delivering a massive $48.8 million global opening weekend in IMAX theaters. It is the second biggest IMAX international opening of all time.
IMAX built on its historic legacy with this one-of-a-kind franchise, racking up 11.2% of the film’s worldwide gross on just a fraction of the total screens. The original “Avatar” is the highest-grossing film of all time in IMAX.
The North American box office led the way, where IMAX delivered $16.5 million in Domestic box office — 12.3% of total receipts. “Avatar: The Way of Water” also heralded a return to form for IMAX in China, where the Company delivered a $15.8 million opening weekend. IMAX had its most significant opening weekend marketing share ever in China, accounting for 27% of the total box office in China on only 1% of full screens in the market.
“‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ is a watershed achievement in filmmaking innovation and technology, and it’s clear that global audiences are choosing to see this film through the best technology for blockbuster entertainment in the world: IMAX,” said Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX. “As excited as we are about these early results, we anticipate a long and successful run for ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ as more people worldwide book their tickets.”
International IMAX screens outside China delivered $16.5 million at the box office with “Avatar: The Way of Water.” The film scored the biggest IMAX opening weekend of all time in a diverse collection of 11 global markets, including India, Belgium, Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, Switzerland, Turkey, Vietnam, Chile, Kazakhstan, and New Zealand, where “Avatar: The Way of Water” was filmed. In addition, IMAX recently opened its first theatre in Wellington. Forty-one international markets posted the top five all-time IMAX opening weekends.
“Avatar: The Way of Water” debuted with the most extended IMAX global release across 1,543 screens and is available exclusively in IMAX 3D locations worldwide. The film will screen across the IMAX network through January in most international markets.
IMAX, an innovator in entertainment technology, combines proprietary software, architecture, and equipment to create experiences that take you beyond the edge of your seat to a world you’ve never imagined. As a result, top filmmakers and studios are utilizing IMAX theaters to connect with audiences in extraordinary ways. As such, IMAX’s network is among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event films around the globe.
IMAX has its headquarters in New York, Toronto, and Los Angeles, with additional offices in London, Dublin, Tokyo, and Shanghai, and it operates in 87 countries and territories worldwide.
Source: IMAX
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:59 AM | View the original post
December 16, 2022
Two limited editions of Ducati Panigale V4 celebrate the World Champion Titles of Francesco Bagnaia and Alvaro Bautista.
The limited series Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2022 World Champion Replica and Panigale V4 Bautista 2022 World Champion Replica will be made in 260 units, each bike made unique by the rider’s original signature on the tank.
These unique series feature the same liveries as the bikes on which Bagnaia and Bautista won the titles in MotoGP and WorldSBK, an authenticity certificate, dedicated technical equipment, and a packing case.
Photos: Celebratory motorcycles. Ducati PanigaleV4 2022 World Champion Replicas. Images provided by & copyright © Ducati.
Bologna, Italy, December 15, 2022 - Ducati celebrates the double victory of the MotoGP and WorldSBK titles by creating two unique series of Panigale V4 bikes inspired by the Desmosedici GP and Panigale V4 R of World Champions Francesco Bagnaia and Alvaro Bautista. The celebratory motorcycles were unveiled during the press conference anticipating “Campioni in Piazza2”, the event where Ducati celebrates this historic double achievement with its fans.
2022 has been an incredible year for Ducati. The Bologna-based manufacturer is World Champion, for the first time in its history, in both MotoGP and WorldSBK in the same season. A dream result that came true, thanks to the exceptional work of the engineers, teams, and riders. A double triumph that Ducati wanted to celebrate with two unique, collectible models.
The two special series, made on the base of the Panigale V4 S, will feature the liveries of Pecco Bagnaia #63 and Alvaro Bautista #19 bikes. In addition, each motorcycle in the series will be made unique by the original autograph of the rider on the tank, which will then be protected with a layer of clear varnish. The two motorcycles, produced in a numbered and limited series, celebrate the year of Ducati’s birth in their production numbers. Each series will consist of only 260 units in honor of 1926, the year the company was founded.
Like the race bikes they are inspired by, the Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica bikes are offered in a single-seat configuration. The billet aluminum upper clamp enhances them with laser engraving of the model name and progressive number. The technical equipment boasts adopting the nine-disc STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, street-legal silencer (2 kg lighter than the Panigale V4’s stock unit), Brembo braking system enhanced by Stylema® R calipers, and MCS master cylinder with remote adjuster, Rizoma billet aluminum adjustable footpegs and racing plexiglass.
Other technical details that characterize these special bikes are the rear exhaust manifold heat shield, alternator cover, front and rear fenders, and front brake ducts, all made of carbon fiber. Also made of carbon fiber, combined with titanium, is the cover protecting the single-sided swingarm. Finally, the series dedicated to Alvaro Bautista #19 features the brushed aluminum tank found on the more refined versions of the Panigale V4.
Each bike will be delivered in a packing case with dedicated graphics, a certificate of authenticity, a custom bike cover, and the Ducati Data Analyser.
Source: Ducati
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:54 AM | View the original post
December 7, 2022
Academy announces Animated, Documentary, and International Feature Films Eligible for 95th Oscars
Photo: Oscar nominee and American filmmaker Garrett Bradley arrives on the red carpet of The 93rd Oscars at Union Station in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, April 25, 2021. Image provided by & copyright © Matt Petit / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]
LOS ANGELES, CA - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced feature films eligible for consideration in the Animated Feature Film, Documentary Feature Film, and International Feature Film categories for the 95th Academy Awards.
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Twenty-seven features are eligible for consideration in the Animated Feature Film category for the 95th Academy Awards. Some of the films have not yet had their required qualifying release and must fulfill that requirement and comply with all the category’s other qualifying rules to advance in the voting process.
Short Films and Feature Animation Branch members are automatically eligible to vote in the category. Academy members outside of the Short Films and Feature Animation Branch are invited to opt-in to participate. They must meet a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category. Films submitted in the Animated Feature Film category also qualify for Academy Awards in other categories, including Best Picture.
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
One hundred forty-four features are eligible for consideration in the Documentary Feature Film category for the 95th Academy Awards. Some of the films have not yet had their required qualifying release and must fulfill that requirement and comply with all the category’s other qualifying rules to advance in the voting process.
Members of the Documentary Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees. The Academy will announce the shortlist of 15 films on Wednesday, December 21, 2022.
INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
Ninety-two countries have submitted films that are eligible for consideration in the International Feature Film category for the 95th Academy Awards.
An international feature film is a feature-length motion picture (more than 40 minutes) produced outside the United States with a predominantly (more than 50%) non-English dialogue track. Uganda is a first-time entrant.
Academy members from all branches are invited to opt-in to participate in the preliminary round of voting. They must meet a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category. The Academy will announce the shortlist of 15 films on Wednesday, December 21, 2022.
• Films Eligible for Consideration in the International Feature Films Category
— Listed in Alphabetical Order by Country
- Albania, “A Cup of Coffee and New Shoes On”
- Algeria, “Our Brothers”
- Argentina, “Argentina, 1985”
- Armenia, “Aurora’s Sunrise”
- Australia, “You Won’t Be Alone”
- Austria, “Corsage”
- Azerbaijan, “Creators”
- Bangladesh, “Hawa”
- Belgium, “Close”
- Bolivia, “Utama”
- Bosnia and Herzegovina, “A Ballad”
- Brazil, “Mars One”
- Bulgaria, “In the Heart of the Machine”
- Cambodia, “Return to Seoul”
- Cameroon, “The Planters Plantation”
- Canada, “Eternal Spring”
- Chile, “Blanquita”
- China, “Nice View”
- Colombia, “The Kings of the World”
- Costa Rica, “Domingo and the Mist”
- Croatia, “Safe Place”
- Czech Republic, “Il Boemo”
- Denmark, “Holy Spider”
- Dominican Republic, “Bantú Mama”
- Ecuador, “Lo Invisible”
- Estonia, “Kalev”
- Finland, “Girl Picture”
- France, “Saint Omer”
- Georgia, “A Long Break”
- Germany, “All Quiet on the Western Front”
- Greece, “Magnetic Fields”
- Guatemala, “The Silence of the Mole”
- Hong Kong, “Where the Wind Blows”
- Hungary, “Blockade”
- Iceland, “Beautiful Beings”
- India, “Last Film Show”
- Indonesia, “Missing Home”
- Iran, “World War III”
- Iraq, “The Exam”
- Ireland, “The Quiet Girl”
- Israel, “Cinema Sabaya”
- Italy, “Nostalgia”
- Japan, “Plan 75”
- Jordan, “Farha”
- Kazakhstan, “Life”
- Kenya, “TeraStorm”
- Kosovo, “Looking for Venera”
- Kyrgyzstan, “Home for Sale”
- Latvia, “January”
- Lebanon, “Memory Box”
- Lithuania, “Pilgrims”
- Luxembourg, “Icarus”
- Mexico, “Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths”
- Moldova, “Carbon”
- Mongolia, “Harvest Moon”
- Montenegro, “The Elegy of Laurel”
- Morocco, “The Blue Caftan”
- Nepal, “Butterfly on a Windowpane”
- Netherlands, “Narcosis”
- New Zealand, “Muru”
- North Macedonia, “The Happiest Man in the World”
- Norway, “War Sailor”
- Pakistan, “Joyland”
- Palestine, “Mediterranean Fever”
- Panama, “Birthday Boy”
- Paraguay, “Eami”
- Peru, “Moon Heart”
- Philippines, “On the Job: The Missing 8”
- Poland, “EO”
- Portugal, “Alma Viva”
- Romania, “Imaculat”
- Saudi Arabia, “Raven Song”
- Senegal, “Xalé”
- Serbia, “Darkling”
- Singapore, “Ajoomma”
- Slovakia, “Victim”
- Slovenia, “Orchestra”
- South Korea, “Decision to Leave”
- Spain, “Alcarrà s”
- Sweden, “Cairo Conspiracy”
- Switzerland, “A Piece of Sky”
- Taiwan, “Goddamned Asura”
- Tanzania, “Tug of War”
- Thailand, “One for the Road”
- Tunisia, “Under the Fig Trees”
- Turkey, “Kerr”
- Uganda, “Tembele”
- Ukraine, “Klondike”
- United Kingdom, “Winners”
- Uruguay, “The Employer and the Employee”
- Venezuela, “The Box”
- Vietnam, “578: Magnum”
Nominations for the 95th Academy Awards will be announced on Tuesday, January 24, 2023.
The 95th Oscars will take place on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide.
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:49 PM | View the original post
TIME Names the 2022 Person of the Year: Volodymyr Zelensky and the Spirit of Ukraine
Photo: 2022 TIME Person of the Year: Volodymyr Zelensky and the Spirit of Ukraine. Image provided by TIME.
NEW YORK, December 7, 2022 — Today, TIME named Volodymyr Zelensky and the Spirit of Ukraine as the 2022 Person of the Year.
The cover story is by TIME’s Simon Shuster. He spent nine months reporting on the invasion, during which Zelensky and his team granted him unparalleled access to work inside the presidential compound.
In his letter to readers, TIME Editor-in-Chief Edward Felsenthal writes, “This year’s choice was the most clear-cut in memory. Whether the battle for Ukraine fills one with hope or fear, the world marched to Volodymyr Zelensky’s beat in 2022. In the weeks after Russian bombs began falling on February 24, his decision not to flee Kyiv but to stay and rally support was fateful. After his first 40-second Instagram post on February 25, Ukraine’s president was everywhere. His information offensive shifted the geoÂpolitical weather system, setting off a wave of action that swept the globe.”
Felsenthal continues, “The impact of this story on 2022 is the essence of what Person of the Year was designed to capture, the idea that fateful events on the global stage are shaped—for better and worse—by the talents, priorities, fears, and quirks of individual human beings… For proving that courage can be as contagious as fear, stirring people and nations to come together in defense of freedom, and reminding the world of the fragility of democracy-and of peace, Volodymyr Zelensky and the spirit of Ukraine are TIME’s 2022 Person of the Year.”
• TIME also named the 2022 Athlete, Entertainer, Icon, Heroes, Innovator, and Breakthrough Artist of the Year:
HEROES OF THE YEAR
— The Women of Iran
INNOVATORS OF THE YEAR
— The NASA team who built the James Webb Space Telescope
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
— Aaron Judge
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
— Blackpink
ICON OF THE YEAR
— Michelle Yeoh
BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR
— Mickey Guyton
The “December 26, 2022 - January 9, 2023, Person of the Year Issue” of TIME goes on sale on Friday, December 16, 2022.
On December 8, TIME will host a reception featuring meaningful conversations with leaders whose impact defined 2022 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.
Source: TIME
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:04 AM | View the original post
December 6, 2022
Oxford Word of the Year 2022 is: 'Goblin Mode'
Oxford, December 05, 2022 — More than 300,000 English speakers voted to choose the “Word of the Year.” And the winner is: “Goblin Mode.”
As Oxford University Press (OUP) explained, ‘Goblin mode’ is a slang term often used in the expressions ‘in goblin mode’ or ‘to go goblin mode.’ It is a type of behavior that is unapologetically self-indulgent, lazy, careless, or greedy, typically in a way that rejects social norms or expectations.
“Although first seen on Twitter in 2009, goblin mode went viral on social media in February 2022, quickly making its way into newspapers and magazines after being tweeted in a mocked-up headline. The term then rose in popularity over the months following as Covid lockdown restrictions eased in many countries and people ventured out of their homes more regularly. Seemingly, it captured the prevailing mood of individuals who rejected the idea of returning to ‘normal life, or rebelled against the increasingly unattainable aesthetic standards and unsustainable lifestyles exhibited on social media,” OUP added.
At a special event to announce this year’s approach to selecting the Oxford Word of the Year, Ben Zimmer, American linguist and lexicographer, said: “Goblin Mode does speak to the times and the zeitgeist, and it is certainly a 2022 expression. People are looking at social norms in new ways. It allows people to ditch social norms and embrace new ones.”
Casper Grathwohl, President of Oxford Languages, said: “We were hoping the public would enjoy being brought into the process, but this level of engagement with the campaign caught us by surprise. The strength of the response highlights how important our vocabulary is to understanding who we are and processing what’s happening to the world around us. Given the year we’ve just experienced, ‘Goblin mode’ resonates with all of us who feel a little overwhelmed. It’s a relief to acknowledge that we’re not always the idealized, curated selves we’re encouraged to present on our Instagram and TikTok feeds. It has been demonstrated by the dramatic rise of platforms like BeReal, where users share images of their unedited selves, often capturing self-indulgent moments in goblin mode. People are embracing their inner goblin, and voters choosing ‘goblin mode’ as the Word of the Year tells us the concept is likely here to stay.”
Oxford University Press (OUP) is one of the world’s largest university presses with a broad global presence. It prints in many countries, in more than 40 languages, and various formats - print and digital. As a result, OUP products cover a vast academic and educational spectrum. For example, the Oxford English Dictionary, published by Oxford University Press, is the principal historical dictionary of the English language.
Oxford University Press (OUP) is a department of the prestigious “University of Oxford.”
Source: Oxford University Press
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:43 AM | View the original post
November 29, 2022
Supermodel and Environmentalist Gisele Bundchen wears Portofino Chronograph 39 in the new IWC Schaffhausen Global Campaign.
Photo: Gisele Bundchen wearing the Portofino Chronograph 39. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Photo: IWC Schaffhausen Portofino Chronograph 39. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Photo: Gisele Bundchen wearing the IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Photo: IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41. Image provided by & copyright © IWC Schaffhausen.
Schaffhausen, November 29, 2022: IWC Schaffhausen kicks off a worldwide advertising campaign with Gisele Bündchen to launch its new Portofino collection. The Swiss luxury manufacturer is collaborating with the Brazilian model and environmentalist for the campaign, especially in light of her new role as IWC’s first-ever Environmental and Community Projects Advisor. In the campaign, Gisele wears different Portofino models - including the new Portofino Chronograph 39 with the IWC-manufactured 69355 caliber movement and a sapphire glass case back.
“Gisele Bündchen embodies elegance and sustainability. She has been Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009. She has also been honored by renowned academic institutions such as Harvard University for her longstanding commitment to crucial environmental issues. However, Bündchen is instead known as one of the most successful supermodels in the world. Throughout her 27-year career, she has got photographed by legendary photographers and walked the runways of the best-known fashion houses. Following her appointment as IWC’s first Environmental and Community Projects Advisor, the manufacturer has chosen Bündchen as the face of its new Portofino campaign,” IWC stated.
In the campaign, Bündchen wears different watches from the new Portofino collection. Among them is the new Portofino Chronograph 39, which combines the classic and elegant Portofino design with a sporty chronograph complication in an easy-to-wear case size of 39 millimeters. The timepiece features a stainless steel case, a silver-plated dial, and rhodium-plated hands and appliques. This robust and precise chronograph movement in the classic column-wheel design enables the measurement of stop times of up to 30 minutes and can be admired through a sapphire glass case back. Moreover, having the integrated quick-change system, the timepiece can easily be paired with a casual or elegant outfit.
Source: IWC Schaffhausen
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:50 AM | View the original post
November 21, 2022
Nespresso, the Pioneer of Premium Single-Serve Coffee, unveils a new range of Home Compostable Coffee Capsules.
Photo: Breakthrough paper-based home compostable capsule offers another way to enjoy sustainably sourced high-quality coffee without compromising on a premium coffee experience. Retro-compatible with Nespresso Original machines, the new “capsules” will pilot in France and Switzerland from spring 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Nestle/Nespresso.
• Nespresso’s paper-based home compostable capsule offers an additional way to enjoy sustainably sourced high-quality coffee.
• Nespresso Coffee Capsules
For 30 years, Nespresso has been dedicated to bringing its consumers the ultimate coffee experience. Today, it has announced a new range of paper-based home compostable capsules.
Guillaume Le Cunff, Nespresso CEO, said: “Pushing the boundaries of fine coffee experiences is part of the Nespresso innovation. Since becoming a B Corp earlier this year, we’re more committed than ever to widening the sustainable choices we offer our consumers. We are excited to announce our first-ever paper-based home compostable capsule, which will complement our offering of aluminum capsules that are both recyclable and made using 80% recycled aluminum. It is about yet another sustainable choice, without compromising on quality.”
Julia Lauricella, Head of Global R&D Center for Systems and Coffee Machines, said: “Our 40 years of experience in coffee systems allowed us, together with the Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences, to develop a home compostable paper-based capsule, retro-compatible with the Nespresso Original machines, that meets and exceeds the high expectations consumers have of Nespresso in terms of protecting the coffee’s aromas and taste. We combined a high-precision paper pulp forming process with a biodegradable layer for protection against oxidation to preserve our coffee in transport, storage, and during the high-pressure extraction in our machines.”
The product is certified for composting, home, and industrial use, by TÃœV Austria, an international certification body. In some countries, including France, where Nespresso is piloting this range, these capsules are acceptable in the public biowaste bin.
Nestlé Nespresso SA is the pioneer for high-quality portioned coffee. The company works with more than 140,000 farmers in 18 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes. Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, Nespresso operates in 81 countries and has over 13,000 employees with a global retail network of 802 boutiques.
Source: Nestle/Nespresso
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:19 PM | View the original post
November 15, 2022
The Netherlands, Singapore, and Austria Top EF's Global English Proficiency Index
— Worldwide English Trends Revealed in Survey of Over Two Million Adults
ZURICH, November 15, 2022 — EF Education First (EF) today released the 2022 edition of its EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), analyzing data from 2.1 million non-native English speakers in 111 countries and regions. The Netherlands retained first place, while Singapore surged to second, cracking the top three again since becoming the first ASEAN nation to do so in 2018.
“This year’s index reflects the pandemic’s impact - from a concerning decline in English proficiency among young people to unexpectedly high proficiency outside big cities, which has remote work implications,” said EF EPI author Kate Bell. “The report tracks stories of remarkable progress and discouraging setbacks.”
The EF EPI is based on scores from the EF Standard English Test (EF SET), used by governments, companies, and schools for large-scale testing and millions of individual test takers.
Key findings include:
English proficiency improved for adults over 25, with over 40s improving the most. Proficiency among adults 21 - 25 was unchanged but declined for the 18-20 cohort by a striking 50 points since 2020.
Lower-proficiency groups are catching up in Europe, with large countries bordering the European Union fueling the region’s continuing rise. However, Europe is the only area where young adults have not lost ground.
Central and South America continue to improve remarkably; but have the broadest age-related score difference in the world, with scores for the 18-20 cohort declining significantly since 2020.
Asia’s regional average declined slightly due to drops in the Philippines and China, although most countries surveyed improved somewhat, and three climbed into a higher proficiency band.
This year, the gender gap has widened, with men’s English proficiency continuing to outpace women. It appears to be driven by biased education systems or unequal access.
Large cities don’t always have the best English. Of the 500+ cities measured, 130 did not outscore their region, and another 130 barely did. It has implications for recruitment, given the shift toward remote work.
English proficiency in Africa and the Middle East was stable. Outcomes remain stubbornly low across ages in the Middle East, although a narrowing gender-related proficiency gap is a positive development. Africa has some of the broadest proficiency gaps in the world, both in age and gender.
• English Proficiency Ranking of Countries
- Netherlands
- Singapore
- Austria
- Norway
- Denmark
- Belgium
- Sweden
- Finland
- Portugal
- Germany
- Croatia
- South Africa
- Poland
- Greece
- Slovakia
- Luxembourg
- Romania
- Hungary
- Lithuania
- Kenya
- Bulgaria
- Philippines
- Czech Republic
- Malaysia
- Latvia
- Estonia
- Serbia
- Nigeria
- Switzerland
- Argentina
- Hong Kong, China
- Italy
- Spain
- France
- Ukraine
- South Korea
- Costa Rica
- Cuba
- Belarus
- Russia
- Ghana
- Moldova
- Paraguay
- Bolivia
- Chile
- Georgia
- Albania
- Honduras
- Uruguay
- El Salvador
- Peru
- India
- Dominican Republic
- Lebanon
- Uganda
- Tunisia
- Armenia
- Brazil
- Guatemala
- Vietnam
- Nicaragua
- China
- Tanzania
- Turkey
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Venezuela
- Ethiopia
- Iran
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Mongolia
- Qatar
- Israel
- Panama
- Morocco
- Colombia
- U.A.E.
- Algeria
- Japan
- Indonesia
- Ecuador
- Syria
- Kuwait
- Egypt
- Mozambique
- Afghanistan
- Mexico
- Uzbekistan
- Jordan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Azerbaijan
- Myanmar
- Cambodia
- Sudan
- Cameroon
- Thailand
- Haiti
- Kazakhstan
- Somalia
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- Iraq
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Angola
- Tajikistan
- Rwanda
- Libya
- Yemen
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Laos
EF Education First provides culturally immersive education through language, travel, cultural exchange, and academic programs in over 100 countries. Founded in Sweden in 1965, EF’s mission is to open the world through education.
Source: EF Education First (EF)
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:39 AM | View the original post
October 26, 2022
JKN Global Group acquires The Miss Universe Organization from IMG
The transaction will expand JKN Global Group’s (“JKN”) portfolio of broadcast and entertainment properties to become a world-leading omnichannel powerhouse.
The acquisition will seek to build on The Miss Universe Organization’s more than 70-year legacy, including expanded investment in licensing and merchandising opportunities.
With today’s announcement, JKN Chief Executive Officer Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip becomes the first woman owner in The Miss Universe Organization’s history.
Photo: Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, CEO of JKN Global Group and the first woman owner of The Miss Universe Organization.
BANGKOK, Oct. 26, 2022 — JKN, a Thai-owned media and content conglomerate, has announced the acquisition of The Miss Universe Organization from IMG.
The Miss Universe Organization is an international, inclusive organization that celebrates women of all backgrounds, cultures, and traditions and exists to advocate for a future forged by women and suitable for all. At 71 years, MISS UNIVERSE® is one of the longest-running and most-watched competitions in the world, broadcast in 165 countries worldwide and seen by more than half a billion people annually.
Led by CEO Amy Emmerich and President Paula Shugart, the Miss Universe Organization provides a global platform for more than 10,000 women annually to affect positive change through dedicated personal, professional, and philanthropic activities worldwide. Today’s announcement further propels the Organization’s commitment to inclusivity, with JKN Global Group’s Chief Executive Officer Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip becoming the first woman owner of The Miss Universe Organization. The transition expands JKN’s global broadcast and media portfolio across entertainment and consumer products. JKN’s acquisition will build on The Miss Universe Organization’s strong brand and vision, developing an integrated and compelling proposition with new opportunities to grow the business in key and untapped markets, including Asia.
JKN said that it would leverage the strength of the Miss Universe brand and JKN’s lifestyle portfolio to create a new range of merchandise, as well as entertainment and various business opportunities that reflect the brand’s strength.
Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, Chief Executive Officer of JKN Global Group, said: “We are incredibly honored to be acquiring The Miss Universe Organization and working with its visionary leadership team. The global reach of the Organization, its relationships with global partners and brands, and its wealth of content and merchandising opportunities make this a strong, strategic addition to our portfolio. We seek to continue its legacy of providing a platform to passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and traditions and to evolve the brand for the next generation.”
Amy Emmerich, Chief Executive Officer, and Paula Shugart, President of The Miss Universe Organization, shared: “We are excited to continue the evolution of The Miss Universe Organization with JKN. Our relationships with global partners and brands have never been stronger, and our progressive approach positions us at the forefront of our industry. We want to thank IMG for providing a foundation to realize our aspirations for the brand.”
Source: JKN Global Group
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:32 AM | View the original post
October 20, 2022
FILA debuts New Global Campaign featuring Hailey Bieber
Photos: FILA debuts New Global Campaign featuring Hailey Bieber.
Luxembourg, October 20, 2022 - FILA has tapped American model, media personality, and socialite Hailey Bieber to front the brand’s new global campaign, giving the model and entrepreneur a canvas to express her unique sense of style while utilizing some of the brand’s iconic designs.
Renell Medranohe photographed the campaign, and Renell Medrano and Hailey styled it. Hailey gets featured in various archival FILA pieces and staple styles, including a crewneck sweatshirt, sweater vest, oversized utility pants, and a puffer jacket, accessorizing with bucket hats and FILA footwear.
The photos capture the spirit of the 90s, from the apparel to the styling to the aesthetic. Working hand in hand with the brand, she brings her point of view to FILA classics with a modern and effortless interpretation.
“My style is ever-evolving, and FILA’s designs are timeless and the perfect complement to my everyday wardrobe,” said Hailey. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work closely with the brand to pull these iconic pieces and present them in a way that feels like a true reflection of my style.”
“Hailey has an enviable and often imitated street style, and she has quickly emerged as a fashion icon for this generation,” said Gene Yoon, Global Chairman at FILA. “As a brand, we have always celebrated individuality and a willingness to take chances in design. Hailey is fearless with her fashion choices, versatility, authenticity, and originality in the expression of her style. FILA has become part of Hailey’s closet, and it was a natural fit to work together on this new campaign.”
The campaign launched on October 18 and will be featured in digital elements globally, including outdoor and subway signage, digital banners, and across FILA social channels.
Founded in 1911, FILA is an Italian sportswear and lifestyle brand with a rich and diverse history. Throughout its 105 years as a brand, FILA has had the opportunity to design athletic wear for some of the finest athletes in tennis, golf, skiing, basketball, and baseball. FILA products are available in over 30 countries, including Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, China, Japan, Korea, Brazil, and the United States.
Source: FILA
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:35 AM | View the original post
October 19, 2022
Fashion Magazine ELLE Celebrates Women in Hollywood 2022
Ariana DeBose, Anne Hathaway, Zoë Kravitz, Issa Rae, Sydney Sweeney, Sigourney Weaver, Olivia Wilde, and Michelle Yeoh were honored at ELLE Women in Hollywood celebration on October 17 in Los Angeles. The event was sponsored and presented by Ralph Lauren, Amyris, and Lexus.
Photos: ELLE, Women in Hollywood, November 2022 issue individual covers. On newsstands November 1, 2022.
LOS ANGELES, CA (October 18, 2022) - Eight remarkable women were honored at the 29th annual ELLE Women in Hollywood Celebration for their creative and cultural contributions to the worlds of music, film, television, and beyond. In partnership with presenting sponsors Ralph Lauren, Amyris, and Lexus, ELLE Editor-in-Chief Nina Garcia, feted Ariana DeBose, Anne Hathaway, Zoë Kravitz, Issa Rae, Sydney Sweeney, Sigourney Weaver, Olivia Wilde, and Michelle Yeoh. In addition, the event brought together honorees, presenters, artists, and Hollywood legends for this year’s dinner and awards celebration.
In addition to being feted at the annual awards dinner in Los Angeles, the honorees are also featured on individual covers of ELLE’s November 2022 Women in Hollywood issue, on newsstands November 1, 2022.
ELLE is a leading fashion magazine and global media brand with 45 editions, 34 websites, and more than 158 supplements worldwide. The ELLE U.S. brand reaches over 29 million influential readers, users, fans, and followers across all platforms. It inspires women to explore and celebrate style in all aspects of their lives with inclusive and innovative content.Â
Source: ELLE
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:59 AM | View the original post
October 13, 2022
Lakmé Fashion Week and Fashion Design Council of India reveal highlights of the upcoming edition in Mumbai from 12th-16th October.
Photo: Tara Sutaria as the show stopper for Aisha Rao Official at Lakmé Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Photo: Showcasing trendsetting & experimental makeup looks straight from Lakmé Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Photo: Gen-Next and INFD introduced new talent. Mumbai, India. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Photo: Kriti Sanon at the Lakme Fashion Week. Mumbai, India. October 2022. Image credit: FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Lakmé Fashion Week, 12th-16th October, Mumbai Highlights:
Mumbai’s iconic, new landmark destination - Jio World Convention Centre, will hold Lakmé Fashion Week, a five-day event.
The extravaganza will kick off with the Opening Show on October 11, presented jointly by FDCI and Lakmé Fashion Week at an iconic venue, and will end with the much-awaited Lakmé Absolute Grand Finale on October 16.
Lakmé will present their skincare trend statement, the Lakmé Vit C range, in collaboration with Pankaj & Nidhi.
The FDCI Showcase of the season will be the return of master couturier Shahab Durazi with a retrospective showcase.
Several longstanding partners will return to the platform to collaborate with established designers, including NEXA x Gaurav Gupta, Lakmé Salon x Samant Chauhan, TENCEL™ x Anju Modi, R|ElanTM x Gauri & Nainika, realme x Amit Aggarwal and Logitech x Saaksha & Kinni.
Leading Designer showcases include Abraham & Thakore, Anand Kabra, Gaurang, Geisha Designs by Paras and Shalini, Nachiket Barve, Not So Serious by Pallavi Mohan, Payal Singhal, Pawan Sachdeva, Satya Paul, Shantnu and Nikhil, Shyamal & Bhumika and Rina Dhaka.
Gujarat Titans will be the first Indian Premier League team to collaborate with the event to present a dynamic streetwear collection in partnership with ace designer Kanika Goyal.
Sustainable Fashion Day curations include TENCEL™ x Anju Modi, Eká, and a showcase by Pieux - the winner of R|ElanTMpresents Circular Design Challenge in partnership with the United Nations in India.
RISE Worldwide & British Council of India will present an engaging discussion on Fashion, Climate & The Role of Women moderated by Aditi Mayer.
The FDCI Emerging Designers of the season are Khanijo, Countrymade, and Son of a Noble SNOB.
The platform’s distinguished talent discovery programs, such as INIFD GenNext, INIFD Launchpad, and NEXA, present The Spotlight x Bloni, introducing upcoming talent to the fashion industry.
FDCI will also present Pearl Academy x Graduate Fashion Week International, a prestigious global platform.
The most anticipated sale of the industry- the FDCI Designer Stockroom will be hosting its 9th edition and, for the first time, in Mumbai on the event’s last day.
Celebrated and leading designer brands from across the country will be showcasing their collections, including Aisha Rao, Abhishek Sharma, Anushree Reddy, Diksha Khanna, Eshaa Amiin, Guapa, Limerick by Abirr N’ Nanki, Mishru, Nikita Mhaisalkar, Nikhita - Mynah Designs, Nirmooha, Sanjukta Dutta, Studio Medium, SVA by Sonam & Paras Modi, Swatti Kapoor and Varun Nidhika.
With a schedule and line-up featuring some of the best designers and partners across the country, the event will commence with a spectacular Opening Show on October 11 and conclude with the best of beauty and Fashion presented by the Lakmé Absolute Grand Finale on October 16.
The platform will always offer two showcase areas (the Runway and the Atelier) for designers. In addition, it will continue to champion sustainability, inclusivity, and diversity through cutting-edge innovations and environmentally conscious initiatives. All showcases will continue to be live-streamed across the platform’s OTT partners, Jio TV and Voot, and FDCI and LFW social media channels to reach the widespread Indian and global fashion audience.
The fashion business will also be a critical driving force, with the largest ever area dedicated to the FDCI Showroom and the presence of Buyers expected from around the world.
Sunil Sethi, Chairman of FDCI, commented, “This season’s curation of designers truly inculcates the best talent we have in Fashion today. As we navigate the return of in-person showcases, fashion enthusiasts can expect electrifying and dynamic presentations rooted in design compositions that present themselves as nothing short of art on the runway. FDCI is delighted to be back in Mumbai with a grand edition, several unique FDCI showcases, and a huge focus on the fashion business.”
Source: Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) / Lakmé Fashion Week
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:21 AM | View the original post
October 2, 2022
MONDIACULT 2022: States adopt historic Declaration for Culture
• One hundred-fifty States unanimously adopted an ambitious Declaration for Culture on Friday at the end of a three-day conference convened by UNESCO. The text affirms Culture as a “global public good.” It reflects countries’ agreement on a joint roadmap to strengthen public policies in this field.
Photos: MONDIACULT 2022. UNESCO World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development. Images provided by & copyright © UNESCO / Juan Luis M. Acevez.
Mexico, September 30, 2022 — MONDIACULT 2022, the most significant world conference devoted to Culture in the last 40 years, brought together nearly 2,600 participants over three days in Mexico City. At UNESCO’s and Mexico’s invitations, 150 States sent delegations to the conference, and 135 of them were represented at the highest level by ministers of Culture.
“Culture has a fundamental role in our societies. People can discover their common humanity through Culture and become free and enlightened citizens. Yet, despite progress, it still does not have the place it deserves in public policies and international cooperation. MONDIACULT 2022 is a powerful signal to change this. The Declaration adopted today is a commitment to action,” UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said.
In the Declaration, the fruit of ten months of multilateral negotiations led by UNESCO, States affirm for the first time that Culture is a “global public good.” Consequently, States call for Culture to be included “as a specific objective in its own right” among the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The text defines a set of cultural rights that need to be considered in public policies, ranging from artists’ social and economic rights to artistic freedom. Also included is the right of indigenous communities to safeguard and transmit their ancestral knowledge and protect and promote cultural and natural heritage.
It also calls for substantial regulation of the digital sector, notably of the major platforms, to benefit online cultural diversity, artists’ intellectual property rights, and fair access to content for all.
Stepping up the fight against illicit trafficking in cultural property: In the Declaration, governments also commit to intensify the fight against illegal trafficking in cultural goods with increased international cooperation. They call on art market operators not to offer for sale objects whose provenance is not proven.
The emphasis on “unprovenanced” objects calls for protecting vulnerable archaeological sites. The Declaration mandates UNESCO to propose standard-setting instruments to meet these challenges.
On the same subject, Ms. Azoulay announced the creation by UNESCO and INTERPOL of a virtual museum of stolen cultural property. It will serve as an educational and pedagogical tool so that citizens can learn about the history of these works and help people research the provenance of pieces about which they are unsure. The virtual museum will be up and running by 2025.
A delegation headed by the Minister of State for Culture, Arjun Ram Meghwal, represented India at UNESCO-MONDIACULT 2022 World Conference.
Source: UNESCO
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:41 AM | View the original post
September 24, 2022
Academy Reveals 2022 Student Academy Awards Winners
• All Winning Films are now eligible for the 2022 Oscars
Photo: Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell pose backstage with their Oscars during the live ABC telecast of the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, CA, on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Image Credit: Luis Alberto Rodriguez / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]
LOS ANGELES, CA — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has voted 14 students as winners of the 49th Student Academy Awards competition. This year, the Student Academy Awards competition received a total of 1,796 entries from 614 colleges and universities around the world. The 2022 winners join past Student Academy Award winners such as Patricia Cardoso, Pete Docter, Spike Lee, Patricia Riggen, and Robert Zemeckis.
The winners are (listed alphabetically by category):
Alternative/Experimental
- Olivia Peace, “Against Reality,” University of Southern California
Animation
- Jan Gadermann and Sebastian Gadow, “Laika & Nemo,” Konrad Wolf Film University of Babelsberg, Germany
- Lachlan Pendragon, “An Ostrich Told Me the World Is Fake, and I Think I Believe It,” Griffith Film School, Australia
- Yanis Belaid, Eliott Benard and Nicolas Mayeur, “The Seine’s Tears,” Pôle 3D Digital & Creative School, France
Documentary
- Shuhao Tse, “Found,” New York University
- Jared Peraglia, “Here to Stay,” New York University
- Gabriella Canal and Michael Fearon, “Seasons,” Columbia University
Narrative
- Nils Keller, “Almost Home,” University of Television and Film Munich, Germany
- Welf Reinhart, “Rooms,” University of Television and Film Munich, Germany
- Freddy Macdonald, “Shedding Angels,” American Film Institute
First-time honors go to Pôle 3D Digital & Creative School.
All Student Academy Award-winning films are eligible to compete for the 2022 Oscars in the Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film, or Documentary Short Film categories. Past winners have gone on to receive 65 Oscar nominations and have won or shared 14 awards.
For the first time since 2019, students will participate in an in-person award ceremony on Thursday, October 20, at 7:30 p.m., at the David Geffen Theater in Los Angeles. The Academy will announce the Gold, silver, and bronze medal placements in the four award categories at the ceremony.
The 49th Student Academy Awards ceremony on October 20 is free and open to the public, but advance tickets are required. The David Geffen Theater is located at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures at 6067 Wilshire Boulevard.
Starting this year, the Student Academy Awards no longer distinguish between domestic (U.S.-based) and international (non-U.S.-based) schools for categories. Regardless of where they are from, all eligible submissions now qualify for the competition category the filmmaker selected in their submission application.
The Student Academy Awards were established in 1972. They provide a platform for emerging global talent to showcase their work.
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:02 AM | View the original post
September 23, 2022
71st MISS UNIVERSE competition to be held in New Orleans
Photo: Maria Thattil, Miss Universe Australia 2020 and a 2021 Miss Universe Competition Contestant. Image provided by & copyright © The Miss Universe Organization, New York. [File Photo]
NEW YORK, NY (September 23, 2022) - The Miss Universe Organization has announced the 71st MISS UNIVERSE competition will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Saturday, January 14, 2023.
“There is no place like New Orleans. This vibrant city has been at the top of our list to host for quite some time due to its rich cultural history, as well as its unique arts, entertainment, and culinary scene,” said Paula Shugart, President of The Miss Universe Organization. “I look forward to our delegates from all over the world getting to experience all it has to offer.”
The highly anticipated event will feature almost 90 women from around the globe vying for the job of Miss Universe through the process of personal statements, in-depth interviews, and various categories, including evening gowns & swimwear. The evening will culminate with the 70th Miss Universe, Harnaaz Sandhu, who brought the title back to India for the first time in twenty-one years, crowning her successor.
“My time as Miss Universe has been an incredible experience, and I am so grateful for all the opportunities I have received due to this platform,” said Sandhu. “I’m very excited that I will be crowning the next titleholder in New Orleans and that she will kick off her reign in such an exciting and special city known for its resiliency, music, and grand celebrations.”
“The City of New Orleans and the Miss Universe Organization share common values of celebrating inclusion, culture, and the empowerment of women,” said New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, the first female Mayor in the city’s 300-year history. “Former Miss Universe delegates and winners have gone on to become surgeons, diplomats, politicians, and business leaders, and they all champion social causes that are important to them. In addition, hosting this event demonstrates the significant global impact an international city like New Orleans has on the world’s tourism and cultural stages. We are honored to host the 71st annual Miss Universe pageant and show people around the globe why New Orleans is the best at executing major events, festivals, conferences, and conventions with an unmatched culture.”
Source: The Miss Universe Organization
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:50 AM | View the original post
September 15, 2022
Emily Ratajkowski Turns Heads in New York in LILYSILK Silk Poppy Skirt
Photo: Emily Ratajkowski looking stylish in her LILYSILK Silk Poppy Skirt in New York.
NEW YORK, September 14, 2022 — LILYSILK, the world’s leading silk brand, was the clothing of choice for supermodel Emily Ratajkowski. She was looking stylish on the streets of New York as she headed to a concert wearing the LILYSILK Minimalist Aesthetic Silk Poppy Skirt.
Multiple top media outlets, including British Vogue, Elle Netherlands, and Harper’s Bazaar, covered her street look, saying Ms. Ratajkowski “put an edgy spin on the romantic ensemble by pairing the set with a pair of black knee-high Cowgirl boots.” Emily Ratajkowski earlier graced the Paris Fashion Week runway and Milan Fashion Week.
According to LILYSILK, “A clear-cut case of contemporary meets classic, this ultra-cool midi silk skirt is inspired by 90s minimalist aesthetic. A best-seller from the LILYSILK Spring 2022 Collection, the bias-cut adds comfort and movement, making it an ideal piece to be worn at home for a touch of luxury or as an elevated essential for the spring social calendar. Paired with LILYSILK’s matching Osmanthus shirt of the same edition makes styling easier and more fashion-forward than ever.”
“Emily Ratajkowski brings us a fresh look,” said David Wang, CEO of LILYSILK. “Silk has always represented elegance, femininity, and fashion, but now we are spicing women’s wardrobes with our classy silk pieces such as the Silk Poppy Skirt. We hope more people can express their style and personality wearing LILYSILK.”
LILYSILK is a world-leading silk brand. It says its “mission is to inspire people to live spectacularly as well as more sustainably.”
Source: LILYSILK
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:02 PM | View the original post
September 12, 2022
Keds and Altuzarra Debut Collaboration at New York Fashion Week: The Shows
• Footwear Collaboration Continues Keds Partnership with IMG as ‘The Official Sole of NYFW’
Photo: Keds and Altuzarra Debut Collaboration at New York Fashion Week: The Shows.
NEW YORK, Sept. 11, 2022 — Sneaker brand Keds, well-known for its long-standing brand partnerships, debuts an exclusive footwear collection with luxury women’s ready-to-wear and accessories brand, Altuzarra, during Altuzarra’s New York Fashion Week show. This collection launch is a continuation of Keds’ partnership with IMG and New York Fashion Week: The Shows that have solidified Keds as the ‘Official Sole of NYFW’ for the second season. The footwear collection features new sneaker styles in varying colorways and cements Keds’ position as a style leader in the collaborative footwear category.
“Our partnership with Altuzarra marks Keds’ emergence into the luxury fashion space with our iconic silhouettes reimagined through the lens of the talented Joseph Altuzarra,” said Jen Lynch, VP and General Manager of Keds. “The collection delivers unique styles in luxe fabrications for our customers in styles they cherish.”
Keds displayed the exclusive first look of the limited-edition footwear collection with the brand during the Sept. 10 Altuzarra fashion show in New York City. It featured never-seen-before sneaker styles that merge the two distinct brand aesthetics in new design features. “I am so thrilled to be collaborating with Keds this season. Their iconic brand language and heritage were a huge source of inspiration, and the resulting footwear collection adds an exciting and dynamic layer to the show,” said Joseph Altuzarra.
“This collection marks an exciting time for two beloved brands to seamlessly bring to life the creative fashion minds of two teams,” said Patrick Connors, the Senior Vice President of Global Brand Partnerships for IMG’s Fashion Events and Properties.
Keds. Wear Yours. — Keds is a division of Wolverine Worldwide, the world’s leading maker of casual, work, outdoor, athletic, and children’s footwear.
Founded by creative director Joseph Altuzarra in 2008, Altuzarra is a luxury women’s ready-to-wear and accessories brand.
IMG is a global sports, fashion, events, and media leader. It is a subsidiary of Endeavor, an international sports, and entertainment company.
Source: Keds
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:45 AM | View the original post
September 2, 2022
Ministry of Culture, India, celebrates the successful inscription of 'Durga Puja in Kolkata' on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021
Photos: UNESCO Headquarters Paris. The UNESCO Director-General handed over the “Certificate of inscription of Durga Puja in Kolkata to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage” to the Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO. Images provided by & Copyright © UNESCO/Lily CHAVANCE.
New Delhi, India, August 31, 2022 — The Ministry of Culture and Sangeet Natak Akademi, the designated nodal agency for Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), in collaboration with the National Museum and National Museum Institute, organized the celebration of the successful inscription of ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ on the Representative List of ICH of Humanity in 2021.
A mesmerizing dance ballet, Devi Rising, was presented by the renowned Odissi dancer and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Smt. Sharmila Biswas and her troupe from Kolkata. It enthralled the audience and the guests by depicting Devi Durga or the feminine shakti through aesthetically conceptualized choreography, music, costumes, and theme.
Ms. Lily Pandeya, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Mr. Tim Curtis, Secretary of UNESCO’s 2003 ICH Convention; Mr. Eric Falt, Director and UNESCO Representative to Bhutan, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka; Ms. Ritu Sethi, ICH expert; Ms. Shikha Jain & Prof. Manvi Seth, National Museum Institute; Mr. Arvind Kumar, Director/ UNESCO, Ministry of Culture; Mr. Suman Kumar of Sangeet Natak Akademi, and officers from Ministry of External Affairs graced the occasion with their presence.
The Secretary, Convention for Safeguarding the Intangible Culture Heritage, UNESCO, Mr. Tim Curtis, spoke about the developments in UNESCO’s 2003 ICH Convention. He stated that UNESCO will now accept ICH dossiers in the language of the practitioners, along with English or French, for evaluation.
Director and UNESCO Representative to Bhutan, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka, Eric Falt, said, “I think it is essential to bring together all of the stakeholders and different groups involved in such nominations and this workshop.” He added, “I’m grateful to all of the other partners who have worked with us in the past few years to raise the importance and visibility of intangible cultural heritage.” He also mentioned that UNESCO is organizing an ICH workshop at the regional level in Udaipur, bringing several representatives from various countries.
Joint Secretary Ministry of Culture Ms. Lily Pandeya said, “India is a member of almost all of the UNESCO Cultural Conventions and Programs. In addition, India continues to strengthen the intercultural dialogue among nations with 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 14 intangible cultural heritage elements inscribed on Representative List, nine documentary heritage elements recognized in the International Memory of the World Register, and 6 Creative Cities.”
‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ was inscribed on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during its 16th session in Paris, France, from 13th to 18th December 2021.
Source: India Ministry of Culture
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:30 AM | View the original post
September 1, 2022
U.S. Postal Service issues two new stamps. One on Elephants, the other on Christmas.
• Elephants Stamp
Photo: Elephants star on Forever Stamps on World Elephant Day.
The U.S. Postal Service celebrated the majestic, playful, and highly intelligent elephant with a first-day-of-issue stamp ceremony.
“We love elephants because of their physical characteristics, social intelligence, capacity for empathy, self-awareness, teamwork, and because they share so many of our best qualities,” said Jeffery Adams, USPS corporate communications vice president, who served as the dedicated official. “What a pleasure it is to honor these magnificent creatures on World Elephant Day with a beautiful Forever stamp.”
According to USPS, the stamp’s fanciful digital illustration of an elephant and its young calf depicts the affectionate nature of the beloved animals. Two stylized plants and a bright orange sun add whimsy and color to this lighthearted stamp. In the upper left-hand corner, the word “Forever” is in black, and the letters “USA” are in gray. The booklet cover details the adult elephant, with a green plant and orange sun to the left. Artis Rafael López created the original art and designed the stamp.
• Christmas Stamp
Photo: U.S. Postal Service announces new Christmas Forever postage stamps.
The U.S. Postal Service is dedicating a new Christmas stamp featuring “Virgin and Child,” an oil-on-panel painting from the first half of the 16th century by an unidentified Florentine artist known as “the Master of Scandicci Lamentation.”
“The painting depicts the Virgin Mary gazing downward at the infant Christ, one of her arms holding him protectively at his waist, the other tenderly touching his arm, while the Christ child turns his head to look out of the frame to the left,” USPS explained.
The 16th-century painting “Virgin and Child” is part of the Robert Dawson Evans Collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamp.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:41 AM | View the original post
August 11, 2022
Global Citizen announces lineups for the 2022 Global Citizen Festival in New York City & Accra, Ghana, on September 24, 2022
Photo: Global Citizen Ambassador Priyanka Chopra Jonas will host the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, New York City, on September 24, 2022.
NEW YORK, August 11, 2022 — International advocacy organization Global Citizen has announced the lineups for the 10th anniversary Global Citizen Festival. The festival will occur in New York City’s Central Park, presented by Citi and Cisco, and Black Star Square in Accra, Ghana, presented by Harith General Partners, on Saturday, September 24, 2022.
Since it lit up Central Park’s Great Lawn in 2012, the Global Citizen Festival has become the world’s longest-running global campaign calling for an end to extreme poverty. The event unites millions of voices, amplified by the world’s most prominent artists, demanding world leaders take action NOW.
Globally, the disproportionate impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed nearly 100 million more people into extreme poverty and is reversing recent trends of shrinking inequality, leading to the loss of at least three years of progress. Without urgent action, this backsliding will only worsen, the organization said. In addition, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has aggravated the situation further, with as many as 323 million people facing acute hunger and 1.2 billion people currently living in nations experiencing a perfect storm of food, energy, and financial crises. If we don’t take action now, as many as 200 million more people may be plunged into extreme poverty by November, Global Citizen warned.
The 2022 Global Citizen Festival will call on world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly and the G20 and COP27 to step up and invest $600 million. The investment will go into the future of women and girls, close the annual $10 billion climate financing shortfall, deliver $500 million to help African farmers respond to the global food crisis, and provide urgent relief from crushing debts to End Extreme Poverty.
With two stages in international cultural capitals, New York City and Accra, Ghana, the 2022 Global Citizen Festival will be broadcast and streamed on ABC, ABC News Live, FX, Hulu, iHeartRadio, TimesLIVE, Twitter, YouTube, and more. ABC News Live’s broadcast will air on Saturday, September 24, and a primetime special, Global Citizen Festival: Take Action NOW, will air on ABC on Sunday, September 25 at 7:00 pm ET / 6:00 pm CT. Different tune-in details to follow in the coming weeks.
Performers on the Central Park stage will include Metallica, Charlie Puth, Jonas Brothers, MÃ…NESKIN, Mariah Carey, Mickey Guyton, and RosalÃa, with more to be announced. In addition, actor, producer, author, and Global Citizen Ambassador Priyanka Chopra Jonas will host the Global Citizen Festival in NYC.
Marking the 65th anniversary of Ghana’s independence and the 20th anniversary of the African Union, Accra’s iconic Black Star Square will see live performances from Usher, SZA, Stormzy, Gyakie, H.E.R., Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, and TEMS with more to be announced.
“Decades of systemic and political failures have led humanity into the midst of converging and rapidly deteriorating crises - climate, hunger, health, war, and conflict. We demand a secure future for girls everywhere. We demand governments keep their promises on climate funding. We demand relief from debts unjustly crashing economies. And we demand action NOW, while there’s still time to change our collective trajectory,” Hugh Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of Global Citizen, said.
Source: Global Citizen
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:45 AM | View the original post
