With vibrant and colorful patterns based on pre-Columbian art and design, “Silvinia Prints” became an institution of fashion in Lima from its opening in 1958. Founded by Silvia von Hagen, wife of the renowned explorer Victor von Hagen, the company was inspired by the iconography and artwork of indigenous cultures that the couple witnessed on their expansive explorations throughout Peru. Silvia and Victor von Hagen travelling in Peru in the 1950's When Silvia sadly passed away in 2007, however, it looked like the charming, smart and much-loved designs were to be a fond memory only. Not so! When I met with Silvia’s granddaughter Georgia last week she told me the fascinating story of how she has taken her grandmother’s company by the reins. She has now registered the company in both the Peru and the United States and is currently busy launching her own debut collection for Spring and Summer 2012, you can visit the website here. Left: Georgia Kirkpatrick of Silvania Right: "Chan Chan blouse" which features in the Spring+Summer 2012 collection Based in Portland, Oregon, Georgia has made many trips back and forth to Peru to setup the company over the last few years. This has entailed research into every detail, from sourcing the highest quality organic pima cotton to setting up production in Lima. “The entire process takes place within Peru, with the exception of sales which I manage in the USA” Georgia told me. “At the moment I am only selling in the USA but in the future I want to expand internationally … and of course within Peru itself!”. Although she had always daydreamed of becoming involved in her grandmother’s company, the prospect of this becoming a reality dawned on Georgia after she completed a placement in the town of Mórrope in the Lambayeque
With vibrant and colorful patterns based on pre-Columbian art and design, “Silvinia Prints” became an institution of fashion in Lima from its opening in 1958. Founded by Silvia von Hagen, wife of the renowned explorer Victor von Hagen, the company was inspired by the iconography and artwork of indigenous cultures…
These fantastic photographs of the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in southern Bolivia were taken by Bolivian contemporary artist Gaston Ugalde, and we’re enamoured with them as the Salar is one of our favourite destinations that we offer in Bolivia. Perhaps the most spectacular and bewildering natural attraction on the entire South American continent, the salt flats are an unforgettable spectacle. Formed around 40,000 years ago, these eerie deserts of white stretch as far as the eye can see. They are an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, not least because of the colours that permeate the surrounding lagoons and volcanic landscape, all contributing to the bizarre, other-worldly feel of the place. This selection of photographs not only highlights the vast extent of salt flats but the number of creative photo options that this “blank canvas” offers. Amongst a variety of themes, Ugalde’s work highlights the immense reserves of lithium underneath the salt lake. Find out more here: http://artpulsemagazine.com/gaston-ugalde-repositioning-rituals/ To plan a trip to the Salt flats, visit our Bolivia luxury tours page for more information on visiting.
These fantastic photographs of the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in southern Bolivia were taken by Bolivian contemporary artist Gaston Ugalde, and we’re enamoured with them as the Salar is one of our favourite destinations that we offer in Bolivia. Perhaps the most spectacular and bewildering natural attraction on the entire…
By Simon and Carlos Photos by Pedro Chincoa After some ten minutes of viewing the private art collection of our friend Naguib Ciurlizza at his house in Chacarilla, Lima, it became very clear why many hail this as one of the finest in Peru. An array of works ranging from original sketches to colourful and powerful contemporary paintings cover his property from floor to ceiling, together forming a unique insight into a range of styles, ideas and movements from the world of art. As Naguib showed us the various works, which he has devotedly collected over decades, we were indulged by a stream of delicious aperitifs – fresh prawns (shrimp) and quail’s eggs accompanied by creamy dips and complimented by our choice of house cocktail (martini please). This part of Naguib’s collection is composed of works by such artists as Miro, Wilfredo Lam, Humair, Corneille, Marino Marini, Aristide Maillol and Alexander Calder to name but a few, as well as host of other significant artists of the 20th century. The collection holds works by modern and contemporary Peruvian artists of the likes of Tilsa Tsuchiya, Grau, Gutierrez, Quintanilla, Tokeshi and Negib. Aside from paintings, Naguib’s house is adorned by Peruvian colonial furniture and carpets dating from as far back as the 16th century, while there is also an extensive showing of 18th century Spanish “La Granja” crystal. Though we felt fortunate not only for the opportunity of seeing these works of the utmost quality; enjoying the company, conversation and entertainment of this captivating host was a privilege in itself. Afterwards - as we retreated to the calmness of the garden for further cocktails and dessert - Naguib told us anecdotes about society in Lima; gave insight into political and economic life; told first hand stories about Peru’s vibrant modern history;
By Simon and Carlos Photos by Pedro Chincoa After some ten minutes of viewing the private art collection of our friend Naguib Ciurlizza at his house in Chacarilla, Lima, it became very clear why many hail this as one of the finest in Peru. An array of works ranging from…
Aracari’s Weekly Insight The Question How many different types of dance are on display at this month’s Fiesta de la Candelaria? The Answer One of the largest festivals in South America, there are over 200 styles of dance on display at this months Virgen de la Candelaria festival, held annually in the first two weeks of February. Tens of thousands of dancers and musicians from the various regions of the Peruvian Altiplano descend upon the stadium of the city of Puno on Lake Titicaca to take part in competitions. The sheer scale of the proceedings makes the festival comparable to the Carnavals of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil and Oruro in Bolivia. The styles of dancing are extremely diverse and original reflecting the deep folkloric traditions held by Quechua and Aymara cultures in the region. Participators don costumes of incredible colour and decoration, making this a quite spectacular scene for any visitor. For more information about this year’s event visit the official website (in Spanish) Virgen de la Candelaria Puno. Also check out our information on Peru festivals.
Aracari’s Weekly Insight The Question How many different types of dance are on display at this month’s Fiesta de la Candelaria? The Answer One of the largest festivals in South America, there are over 200 styles of dance on display at this months Virgen de la Candelaria festival, held annually…
Aracari's Weekly Insight The Question: To which Peruvian cocktail is tomorrow dedicated? The Answer: Tomorrow, the first Saturday in February, is officially National Pisco Sour Day! Made from limes, ice, egg white, sugar syrup and Pisco, Peruvians hold an immense deal of pride for this cocktail, to the extent that it is considered to be Peru’s National Drink. And for good reason. The refreshing cocktail is both quite unique and very sophisticated: the bitter tang of fresh lime is complimented wonderfully by the sweetness of the syrup and strength of the Pisco, all blended together in an impossibly smooth and frothy texture which goes down like a treat before lingering on the palette. Notable buzz surrounds the event, with a number of Pisco Sour festivals set for tomorrow in key plazas and neighbourhoods across the city, including the Plaza de Armas, with many revelers expected to attend. Pisco: Pride of Peru In a sign of the deep appreciation that Peruvians have for Pisco Sour, a recent advertising campaign aimed at the international market has seen success in pitting the drink against other famous spirits from across the world - namely whisky, tequila and vodka - in quite humorous fashion: And this very morning, Top chef Gaston Acurio made a special tribute to Pisco Sour on his hugely popular facebook page to a rapturous reception: Which can be roughly translated as: “Pisco Sour, a Peruvian creation made with Peruvian products on the verge of becoming a global product. One step from being found not only in Peruvian restaurants but in all bars, restaurants and hotels in the world. A little piece of the heart of Peru in the most sophisticated locations in the world. An example of this New Peru, renovated, unique, magic, ideas that come direct from Peruvian identity, and
Aracari’s Weekly Insight The Question: To which Peruvian cocktail is tomorrow dedicated? The Answer: Tomorrow, the first Saturday in February, is officially National Pisco Sour Day! Made from limes, ice, egg white, sugar syrup and Pisco, Peruvians hold an immense deal of pride for this cocktail, to the extent that…
Aracari's Weekly Insight The Question: Where in Bolivia is a Baroque Music Festival held every two years? The Answer: Every two years there is a Baroque Music Festival held at the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos in south eastern Bolivia. The festival is a fantastic way to experience the diverse and multilingual culture of the region, with the recital of the works of a variety of classic composers such as Vivaldi, Handel, Bach and Purcell (to name but a few) as well as original compositions by local people in a remote part of the Bolivian rainforest. The festival was first conceived of after several thousand original sheets of music dating from the 17th and 18th centuries were discovered in the 1970's during the restoration of the six missions churches at Chiquitos and Moxos. Composed by both European and indigenous composers alike, the works embodied a precious cultural treasure, evidence of the dedication to musical tradition in these fabulously adorned mission churches. The missions were subsequently recognised by UNESCO as “monuments of the cultural heritage of mankind” in 1990. The idea behind the Baroque Music Festival is to preserve and promote the unique musical tradition of this part of Bolivia. Local people have had an outstanding ability to assimilate complex European musical instruments and scores, showcasing a unique musical revival taking place in one of the world’s least developed regions. And the fascinating concept of live classical music being played in this beautiful and diverse tract of nature is a joyous and glorious occasion, a real treat for those travellers who make the effort to attend. 2012’s festival, the ninth edition, will take place between the 26th of April and the 6th of May. Anybody interested in visiting should contact us to plan their itinerary, as Bolivia Travel Specialists we can not
Aracari’s Weekly Insight The Question: Where in Bolivia is a Baroque Music Festival held every two years? The Answer: Every two years there is a Baroque Music Festival held at the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos in south eastern Bolivia. The festival is a fantastic way to experience the diverse and…
