Martell Artist Of The Year @ Today Art Museum

On Saturday night, all the the glitz and glamour that the Beijing Art World could muster was rolled out for the Martell Artist of the year awards and exhibition. From film, to installations, to photography and much more, this exhibition really highlights the masters  in their prime.

The prestigious list of winners included the beautifully spiritual oil paintings of Mao Yan, outstanding photography by world-famous Patrick Demarchelier, aesthetic photography by Hong Hao and outstanding installations by Wang Jianwei.

This exhibition is only available until the end of June, so get those artistic juices flowing and see while you still can.  

Duration: 2013.06.16 -- 2013.06.30

Location: 2nd, 3rd floor exhibition hall of building 1

 Today Art Museum, Building 4, Pingod Community, No.32 Baiziwan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing. Tel: 010-58760600

Christy - New York, 1990

Patrick Demarchelier

Beijing Welcomes Stella McCartney

Ms Stella McCartney, whose best known for her signature look of sharp tailoring mixed with very natural and feminine tones, officially set up shop in the heart of China’s capital. Nestled within the very chic and LEED certified Parkview Green shopping centre, you will find the newest addition to the Stella McCartney global chain. This 301 square metre shop will be her first directly operated, free-standing boutique in Beijing. It has quickly become very popular with Beijing’s fashionistas in need of bit more of the Best of British in their wardrobes.

The shop itself is set over two floors and decorated in McCartney’s signature mix of sharpness and femininity. Covered with minimalist charm and oak flooring, you’ll find patterns of pink and natural hues to guide happy shoppers through the store. The walls feature three-dimensional rhombus tiles, all made from recycled aluminium. This is in keeping with the ecologically friendly design concept that the Stella McCartney business puts into practise when producing anything under this name.

Inside, you will find everything you need to keep up with the current season of fashion, all ready to wear women's collection, kid’s collection, accessories and more. McCartney has also redesigned a Beijing-only exclusive version on the popular Falabellam bag in two styles to celebrate the opening of this new shop.

Stella McCartney, L106, Parkview Green, 9 Dongdaqiao Road, Beijing.

The shop is open Monday to Sunday, from 10am to 10pm.

Freak Hail Storm Hits Northern Beijing

Around 4:10 this afternoon, northern areas of Beijing were struck by an intense thunderstorm producing heavy rain and small hail stones. Here are a couple photos I took while seeking shelter at a local supermarket. (Post made from phone while seeking shelter)

Fête de la Musique/Beijing Music Day 2013

“Fête de la Musique” is celebrated around the world on June 21st each year. 2012 marked the first year for Beijing to participate in this French, music tradition that dates back to 1982. Since 2012 was such a success, Beijing Music Day is back for 2013 and it has expanded to include music venues, cafes and bars around Gulou, Wudaoying, Sanlitun, Liangmaqiao, Qianmen and 798. For a full listing of venues, lineups and other information, check out Fête de la Musique/Beijing Music Day 2013's website.

Beijing Taxi Fare Increase Set for June 10, 2013

Ever struggle to get a cab in Beijing? Stupid question, I know. For the first time since 2006, Beijing will increase taxi fares in hopes of eliminating rush hour cab shortages. Beginning June 10, 2013, base taxi fares will increase from 10RMB to 13RMB for the first 3 kilometers. Each kilometer after that will increase from 2RMB to 2.3RMB. The government hopes this will increase the drivers' incentive to make pickups during rush hour and give them a little extra spending money.

The costs associated with operating a taxi in Beijing are shockingly high. Just how high? Earlier this year, Agenda Magazine posted a great article about taxi drivers' costs and profits called Taxi Torment: What's Driving It?   After reading this, a 3RMB hike in flag fall may seem like too little.