Stories: Stories

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

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;