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Pop Mart's whimsical 'Mega Space Molly: Hello, Moon Exhibition" lands at ION Art

Time Out

8 hours ago

Entertainment
Time Out

Pop Mart's whimsical 'Mega Space Molly: Hello, Moon Exhibition" lands at ION Art

The Pop Mart craze shows no signs of abating, judging by the perpetually long queues at the retail store in ION Orchard. Now, there's something else to line up for – and that's the MEGA SPACE MOLLY: Hello, Moon Exhibition, which just landed at ION Art. First, for those who need an introduction, Molly is a highly popular Pop Mart character created by Hong Kong artist Kenny Wong in 2006. Her character was inspired by Kenny's chance encounter with a young girl at a charity event – you'll recognise her from her short hair, enormous eyes, and adorable little pout. The "Mega Space Molly: Hello, Moon" exhibition focuses on the beloved Mega Space Molly series, which features the iconic doll in a spacesuit, which comes in a wild range of themes and designs, from Donald Duck to the Minions. We got the chance to visit the Hello, Moon exhibition before it opens to the public – here's what to expect. Event-exclusive merchandise you'll want to take home Take some time to read the Hello, Moon exhibition blurbs, which give a great introduction to the creation of Molly's character and the spirit of exploration that underlies the Space Molly series. Right after this is a section showcasing all the event-exclusive merchandise. The most valuable of the bunch is the 1000% Hello, Moon, featuring Space Molly holding a glowing moon orb. You can (carefully) lift the orb in and out of her hands and watch the light switch on and off. This, alongside the 400% Hello, Moon figurine and 400% Robot figurine, is for sale via a raffle system – scan the QR code to join, and winners can buy the figurines (nope, you don't get them for free). It's worth noting that the 1000% and 400% Hello, Moon dolls are all individually treated, so no two are the same. Other adorable buys include the Molly Hello, Moon 1/8 Action Figure ($89.90). This doll's really special: not only is it wrapped in a furry spacesuit, but it's also ball-jointed, so you can make Molly stand or sit. There's also the Hello, Moon Ambient Moon Lamp ($389.90) (which should make for a lovely but expensive night light), as well as rugs and multi-functional lanyards, all available for pre-order. Wall art, archival pieces, and an animated short The greater part of the exhibition is filled with Space Molly wall art and archival pieces. Some standout series include Smitten Love, Jon Burgerman, and Pantone. There are also non-Space Molly figurines on display, like the mega-popular Mega Royal Molly in the Van Gogh Museum Almond Blossom design. In the spirit of SG60, the curators have also teamed up with local artist Lioncolony, whose fantastical works have caused quite the splash on TikTok. His Mega Space Molly animated short brings her dreamy, lunar world to life in bold, 3D style. You can watch the short near the event-exclusive merchandise section. Blind boxes from $18.90 What's POP MART without blind boxes? There are three collections available: the MEGA Space Molly 100% × emoji™ Series, the Mega Space Molly 100% Series 02, and the Mega Space Molly 100% Series 03. We picked up the MEGA Space Molly 100% × emoji™ Series and drew the Unicorn (Secret Edition)! So, try your luck. See the Hello, Moon exhibition in other parts of Asia The MEGA SPACE MOLLY: Hello, Moon Exhibition is free and open to walk-ins at ION Art on Level 4 of ION Orchard. It runs until late August.

Van Gogh from Lagos: John Madu – DW – 07/24/2025

5 days ago

Entertainment
DW

Van Gogh from Lagos: John Madu – DW – 07/24/2025

Nigerian artist John Madu drew on his home country's experience to revisit the paintings of Vincent van Gogh. Madu's work is now on show at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. "I was born and raised in the heart of Lagos, and the way people live here shapes my view of the world," artist John Madu told DW. "The city is a vibrant mix of cultures, and it boasts a highly cultured, cosmopolitan middle class. This hustle and bustle, this human energy, and the many subcultures all influenced me, even as a teenager." The Nigerian artist is showcased in an exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, titled "Van Gogh x John Madu: Paint Your Path." Inspired by the museum's invitation to participate, Madu created 10 large-format paintings in his studio in just three months. His works draw from the museum's collection, adding a modern West African touch to Vincent van Gogh's motifs from the late 19th century. For example, a Black person carries a monobloc plastic chair into the restaurant in the Parisian suburb of Asnieres, which Van Gogh painted in 1887. Or Madu has also created a self-portrait that features Van Gogh's "Flowering Plum Orchard (after Hiroshige)" in the background. "I wanted to pay my respects to the master I truly admire," says Madu. "Long before I even knew who Van Gogh was, I was already familiar with his works," he adds. There was a calendar on the wall in his parents' apartment featuring paintings of the great Dutch artist. As a boy, Madu was captivated by Van Gogh's use of color — the cornflower blue, the wheat yellow and the deep green — as well as the expressive brushstrokes. He was drawn to the trees and stars that look like little whirlwinds. Van Gogh played a crucial role in guiding Madu towards painting as a means of expressing his inner world: "Van Gogh's world unfolds for people, allowing them to connect with him," Madu says. Madu's father also contributed to his artistic journey. Although not an artist himself, he still nurtured his son's talent. "My father was an aesthete; he had a keen sense of style and beauty," Madu fondly recalls. "He loved flowers and Versace." Madu and Van Gogh are both self-taught artists who developed their own unique painting style. Additionally, both were influenced by East Asian art. Van Gogh's fascination lay with Japanese woodcuts, while Madu identifies as part of "Generation Manga." Even his French bulldog is named Sasuke, a reference that manga fans will recognize. Van Gogh would undoubtedly have enjoyed visiting Lagos, particularly to experience the Yoruba art or the Nok sculptures, which are the oldest known art in West Africa. These works captivated European artists as early as the 19th century. "Anyone who claims that Africans were savages should consider the avant-gardism and playfulness of this art," says Madu. Madu has one request for his audience: not to be called an "African artist." Instead, he likes to be referred to as "an artist from Africa." The Lagos-born artist identifies as a global citizen. He enjoys house music and anime series, and he admits to spending "a lot of money" on Nike sneakers and trendy sunglasses. When asked if his art carries a social message, Madu reflects on a particular phenomenon happening in Nigeria known as "Japa." This term refers to the trend of young, educated Nigerians leaving the country. "It's a real syndrome," Madu explains. "I won't leave Lagos. What if everyone leaves?" That means that whenever Hollywood stars and Japanese stock market millionaires purchase his paintings, they know exactly where to find him.

5 days ago

Entertainment
DW

The Van Gogh from Lagos: John Madu – DW – 07/24/2025

Nigerian artist John Madu drew on his home country's experience to revisit Vincent van Gogh's paintings, which are now on show at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. "I was born and raised in the heart of Lagos, and the way people live here shapes my view of the world," artist John Madu told DW. "The city is a vibrant mix of cultures, and it boasts a highly cultured, cosmopolitan middle class. This hustle and bustle, this human energy, and the many subcultures all influenced me, even as a teenager." The Nigerian artist is showcased in an exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, titled "Van Gogh x John Madu: Paint Your Path." Inspired by the museum's invitation to participate, Madu created 10 large-format paintings in his studio in just three months. His works draw from the museum's collection, adding a modern West African touch to Vincent van Gogh's motifs from the late 19th century. For example, a Black person carries a monobloc plastic chair into the restaurant in the Parisian suburb of Asnieres, which Van Gogh painted in 1887. Or Madu has also created a self-portrait that features Van Gogh's "Flowering Plum Orchard (after Hiroshige)" in the background. "I wanted to pay my respects to the master I truly admire," says Madu. "Long before I even knew who Van Gogh was, I was already familiar with his works," he adds. There was a calendar on the wall in his parents' apartment featuring paintings of the great Dutch artist. As a boy, Madu was captivated by Van Gogh's use of color — the cornflower blue, the wheat yellow and the deep green — as well as the expressive brushstrokes. He was drawn to the trees and stars that look like little whirlwinds. Van Gogh played a crucial role in guiding Madu towards painting as a means of expressing his inner world: "Van Gogh's world unfolds for people, allowing them to connect with him," Madu says. Madu's father also contributed to his artistic journey. Although not an artist himself, he still nurtured his son's talent. "My father was an aesthete; he had a keen sense of style and beauty," Madu fondly recalls. "He loved flowers and Versace." Madu and Van Gogh are both self-taught artists who developed their own unique painting style. Additionally, both were influenced by East Asian art. Van Gogh's fascination lay with Japanese woodcuts, while Madu identifies as part of "Generation Manga." Even his French bulldog is named Sasuke, a reference that manga fans will recognize. Van Gogh would undoubtedly have enjoyed visiting Lagos, particularly to experience the Yoruba art or the Nok sculptures, which are the oldest known art in West Africa. These works captivated European artists as early as the 19th century. "Anyone who claims that Africans were savages should consider the avant-gardism and playfulness of this art," says Madu. Madu has one request for his audience: not to be called an "African artist." Instead, he likes to be referred to as "an artist from Africa." The Lagos-born artist identifies as a global citizen. He enjoys house music and anime series, and he admits to spending "a lot of money" on Nike sneakers and trendy sunglasses. When asked if his art carries a social message, Madu reflects on a particular phenomenon happening in Nigeria known as "Japa." This term refers to the trend of young, educated Nigerians leaving the country. "It's a real syndrome," Madu explains. "I won't leave Lagos. What if everyone leaves?" That means that whenever Hollywood stars and Japanese stock market millionaires purchase his paintings, they know exactly where to find him.

3 Epic Hotels In The Netherlands For 2025

Forbes

18-07-2025

Forbes

3 Epic Hotels In The Netherlands For 2025

Château St. Gerlach Oostwegel Collection T he Netherlands is a country of captivating contrasts—where endless tulip fields ripple in the breeze, centuries-old windmills turn lazily against the horizon, and sleek modern cities loom like gentle giants beside medieval town centers. Its iconic capital, Amsterdam , is a city shaped by water—with a UNESCO-listed canal belt lined with whimsical gingerbread gables, arched stone bridges, and charming floating houseboats (best admired from a candlelit cruise). Art lovers flock to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum, while the Anne Frank House offers a deeply poignant window into the harrowing trauma of the holocaust. But the Netherlands is far more than just Amsterdam—venture a little further south and you'll uncover Maastricht —a city nestled near the Belgian and German borders, at a rich cultural crossroads of Roman ruins, Gothic churches, and candlelit squares like the Vrijthof. Explore the Maastricht Underground, a mysterious labyrinth of caves and tunnels, or browse books beneath soaring vaulted ceilings at Boekhandel Dominicanen , a bookstore housed in a 700-year-old church. So, whether you're surfing through indie boutiques in Amsterdam's artsy Jordaan district or sipping wine beneath the majestic spires of Maastricht's St. Servatius —here are our handpicked pillow stops along the way. Pillows Maurits at the Park Pillows Hotels Nestled within a former university dissection lab on the edge of Amsterdam's leafy Oosterpark, dating back to 1908, Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits At The Park is an elegant boutique hotel where chic flair meets industrial minimalism—think glazed brick corridors and curated Dutch art, including works by Raphaël Hermans and even a discreet Picasso in its Fitz's Bar . Its crown jewel? The Pillows Grand Suite . Spanning over 700 square feet, this light-drenched cavern houses a signature Pillows king-sized bed, a sweeping kitchenette, and a private lounge area overlooking the park; adorned with a baby grand. Its marble-clad ensuite, however, is a spa-like retreat, with a deep soaking tub, double rainfall shower, and soft fluffy robes to wrap yourself up in. You'll also receive little perks like valet parking and complimentary access to its private sauna. Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Once settled, descend to VanOost Restaurant , cocooned in the former anatomy hall, anchored by an open kitchen helmed by rising-star chef F loris van Straalen . Expect a seasonal tasting menu with standout dishes like Indonesian Langoustine and Anjou Pigeon Rossini —served under trusses that once held cadavers. Don't skip the cheese trolley or the wine pairing, sourced from European vineyards like Zind-Humbrecht and Van Volxem ( Pillows Grand Suite from $1,740 per night). 2. Kruisherenhotel Maastricht Location: Maastricht Kruisherensuite Oostwegel Collection / Laura Knipsael Photography Once a 15th-century Gothic church and Kruisheren monastery of the 'Crutched Friars,' Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is an uber-stylish bolthole, nestled in the heart of Maastricht's historic city center. Up until 1797, it was the home of monks, before serving as military barracks during the French Revolution—and later as the site of the National Agricultural Research Station . Today, as a proud member of Design Hotels, a collection of over 300 independent hotels rooted in design, locality, and culture—its artistic flair is present throughout—think quirky pop art, stained glass windows, original frescoes and stone masonry, and fine furnishings by Philippe Starck and Le Corbusier. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn Its Kruisherensuite , however, is chic and minimalistic—sitting in the former monastery—set across 700 square feet, boasting beautiful stained glass windows, Cardinal tones, an Auping custom-made bed, and a lavish ensuite dressed with a whirlpool and double rainfall shower. Once you're settled into the suite life , saunter down to its French-inspired 'court of fine dining'—Spencer's. With grand original frescoes to gaze upon, you'll feast on a 5-course Chef's Menu , with dishes like fine cured salmon, shellfish from the North Sea, and slow-cooked veal chuck—complete with fluffy yogurt mousse and a gorgeous cheese board. Be sure to opt for its 4-course wine pairing too ( Kruisherensuite from $490 per night). 3. Château St. Gerlach Location: Valkenburg Château St. Gerlach Oostwegel Collection Set within the rolling hills of Geul Valley, Château St. Gerlach is a storybook estate where baroque grandeur meets pastoral serenity. Once a 12th-century monastery, this Relais & Châteaux jewel has been exquisitely restored into a sumptuous countryside retreat—surrounded by lush vineyards, aromatic herb gardens, blooming rose beds, and a charming church adorned with 18th-century frescoes—where sculptures grace the manicured gardens and wild horses roam the nearby Ingendael nature reserve. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Inside, you'll find interiors blending classic elegance with contemporary comfort—think vaulted ceilings, antique heirlooms, and 114 individually styled suites and apartments—housed in former grain lofts and farmsteads. Beneath the Château's ancient stone arches lies Spa & Wellness St. Gerlach —a Roman-inspired sanctuary housing a serene 14-metre indoor pool, a traditional Turkish hammam, and soothing sauna, with treatments ranging from Sothys facials to aromatherapy massages. Gastronomy is a centerpiece too: at Les Salons , in the former living quarters of the last aristocratic resident, Baron de Selys de Fanson , estate-sourced dishes are served beneath gilded ceilings and glittering crystal chandeliers—like sea bass filet, Dutch Yellowtail Kingfish, wild garlic panna cotta, and Limburg mozzarella flan. Burgemeester Quicx , however, offers a more relaxed affair, serving artisanal coffee and light bites—think farmer's cheese and Limburgse vlaai —in a chic farmhouse setting. Read More: Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To The Ned, London By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To Carden Park Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa By Lewis Nunn

[Photo News] Samsung Galaxy S25+ powers Van Gogh Museum

Korea Herald

15-06-2025

Business
Korea Herald

[Photo News] Samsung Galaxy S25+ powers Van Gogh Museum

Samsung Electronics launched a three-year partnership with the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, integrating mobile innovation with cultural enrichment, according to the firms on Sunday. Launched on June 10, the museum renewed its audio tour by replacing previous hardware with 1,600 Galaxy S25+ smartphones, offering clearer voice audio and enhanced display quality. The collaboration will also apply Galaxy AI features to future tours for more personalized visitor experiences. (Samsung Electronics)