Canuck Canuck

Pierre Poussin

2009-10-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

There are some pieces of furniture you never expect to think twice about because their function overrides their form. So, when you come across a line that looks like it’s inspired by Swiss cheese, you have to think twice about that notion.

With pieces that include tables, trays, benches and boxes, Pierre Poussin creates a series that melds a variety of elements in a harmonious fashion.

To quote the designer/artist, these pieces are based on “abstract interpretations of cellular division and molecular movement... Mitosis fuses art and science. These laser-cut [and powder-coated steel] pieces serve as studies of positive and negative space, as well as experimentations of light and shadow.”

And, most important, they’re beautiful to look at.

For more information, visit www.pierrepoussin.com.

Berczy Park

2009-09-04T00:00:00.003-04:00

Nestled between Front and Wellington Streets and situated behind the Flatiron Building, Berczy Park is a respite for many passersby. With a large fountain being the focal point, it welcomes people to wet their hands in the water.

A series of benches around the fountain allows those to enjoy the splashing sounds drown out any bustling traffic in the area, while the trees offer enough shade to sit underneath them.

Located in the St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood, the neighbourhood is surrounded by buildings which don't graze the sky, making it feel cozier. Also, the area features restaurants, shopping and cultural institutions (i.e. two major theatres just steps away).

Berczy Park: an escape from the downtown while conveniently located in the middle of the city.

Bar One

2009-08-17T00:00:00.007-04:00

It seems every restaurant in the city has a few pasta dishes on its menu, but very few of them can actually be considered authentically Italian. Nonna’s recipes have no say in most of these kitchens.

So, it comes as a surprise when there is a restaurant that produces its fare in an unpretentious way: Bar One. Located on Queen Street West, the laid back offerings seem to permeate through the air, the service and the overall environment of the establishment.

Putting the interior design to the side (clean and fresh as it is, with light woods, a long bar on one side of the restaurant and banquettes on the other), people come here for the food.

With plenty of pastas, crispy pizzas and fresh fish on the menu, there is a bit of something for everyone. But this isn’t a traditional Italian restaurant, so there aren’t some plates (meatballs, anyone?) as an option.

Still, the friendly service is always at the call of the patrons and they are never afraid to offer suggestions for the timid and tentative foodies.

And of course, the price is an added incentive to make a reservation.

Sit back, relax, have a drink (or an espresso). Nonna would be proud.

For more information, visit 924 Queen Street West (Toronto, Ontario), call 416-535-1655, or www.bar-one.com.

Urban Mode

2009-07-10T00:00:00.001-04:00

Sometimes it's worth going out of the way to find something that's not available anywhere else. This is true with Urban Mode, a retail concept that has been tackling small space ideas since 1977 - before the condo boom.

Although the store is located off a main street in the city, inside the converted garage is an edited selection of modern, small-scale furnishings is perfectly showcased in the open and airy space that is the approximate size/layout of a downtown condo.

Many of the pieces are convertible: a sectional that morphs into a queen-size bed, an ottoman that doubles as a storage box, and a table that can extend to serve a large group of (hungry) dinner guests. There are a variety of finishes available (from a light ash to the requisite dark espresso), and the fabric choices stay as close to neutral as possible.

But, it's not all about furniture. Urban Mode is also well-known for its selection of accessories. There are several sources of lighting (table lamps, hanging fixtures), vinyl floor coverings, and a large selection of Umbra products, second only to the Umbra Concept Store on John Street.

When the weather cooperates, the garage doors open up and the store's colourful home and garden accessories are trotted out onto the pavement.

There are so many things to whet the appetite of those who feel the need to dress up their dwelling that it's impossible not to get hungry for more. Sometimes, you just have to look for it.

For more information, visit 145 Temcumseth Street (Toronto, Ontario), or www.urbanmode.com.

muzi

2009-04-15T00:00:00.004-04:00

Over at the muzi tea shop, it's all about matcha! matcha! matcha! The story begins in 2001 when two students from Queens School of Business came up with a business plan for their 4th year thesis. That plan eventually became a reality in the form of Infuze, a tea store nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver. The store itself has won awards for its interior design.

Bringing over matcha tea from Japan, Infuze became a local phenomenon. Matcha is a high end green tea ground into a fine, emerald-green powder, then whisked with water to create a unique and healthy beverage. Some of the benefits of matcha include: raises energy, elevates mood, calms nerves, 70x the antioxidants of orange juice and 9x the beta-carotene of spinach.

With its sights set on expanding into the rest of Canada and even the U.S. market, Infuze changed its brand name in 2005 to muzi, which stands for "made under zen influence." What's so special about this store that serves premium, fresh brewed loose leaf teas? Don't expect to find any teabags, for one. And if you're looking for a coffee, you best be on your way.

If you're in Vancouver, and find yourself caught in the rain, drop by muzi and grab yourself a cup of their Immunity tea, which is a blend of matcha, lemon, and honey - the perfect medicine to ward off pesky colds. In the summertime, if you're looking to cool down, muzi brings out their seasonal iced teas and lemonades, complete with floating flower petals!

For more information, visit www.muzitea.com.

Fire On The East Side

2009-03-18T00:00:00.001-04:00

There are a few restaurants that combine a level of sophistication with an element of comfort upon entering their doors. And if they do, the price points don’t reflect the quality of the food being served.

Fire on the East Side offers southern inspired cooking with a global flair, caring hospitality and comfortable surroundings, and manages to offer exceptional value and delicious meals for brunch, lunch and dinner.

The seasonal menu (led by chef Laura Petracca) combines a Southern-inspired soul, with fresh ingredients. Jambalaya (smoked turkey, chorizo, sausage, shrimp, onion, peppers, Creole-style tomato sauce), Louisiana Crab Cakes (with smoked jalapeno aioli), and Stuffed Blackened Chicken (cilantro, chipolte, jalapeno, havarti/seasonal vegetables) are favorites.

To top it off is a comprehensive wine list and drink specials during the week (don’t miss their martini night).

Fire on the East Side is a sophisticated, yet comfortable, dining space that accommodates anyone – from dinner for two to up to 450 people at their event studio.

For more information, visit 6 Gloucester Street (Toronto, Ontario), or www.fireontheeastside.ca.

Schtick

2009-02-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

There are only so many Canadian design icons that are easily identified upon first glance. Some of them are original (the Mountie, Tim Hortons coffee), while others are inspired by the land of a winter that lasts six months.

Made of reused hockey sticks, stainless steel hardware, and rare-earth magnets, the Schtick is a new Canadian icon of design (albeit, one based on a national pastime). It’s not only fun, but functional. While it hangs from the ceiling, it can hold up to 11 kilos on its ‘hooks’ that swoop to the sides.

A side project of Stephen Lindsay, urbanproduct is a Toronto-based firm that transforms and re-purposes everyday objects for the home including living, bedroom and kitchen.

With a philosophy of functionality, affordability and an ecological awareness, the designs begin as a concept which leads to a high quality, unique product – all done with a strictly quirky, Canadian twist.

For more information, visit www.urbanproduct.ca.

Suite 88

2009-02-06T00:00:00.003-05:00

Valentine’s is just around the corner, and it’s basically an excuse to go eat chocolate. If you happen to be in Montreal, why not head down to La Rue de St. Denis to check out a fabulous little chocolatier called Suite 88. Here you’ll find Montreal’s “first ever chocolate lounge and boutique.”

One review of this upscale chocolate house likens it to being the “Tiffany’s of chocolates.” It’s true; upon entering, visitors are greeted with glass cases of different styles of chocolate. From their mini tableaux, chocolates adorned with gorgeous artwork drawn on them, to their chocolate domes and a plentiful variety of chocolate bars.

Their flavours include green tea chocolate, Grand Marnier, Absolut Mandarin, chilli cayenne, thyme, paprika, and early grey, just to name a few. Not only were there bars, but they also have “shooters”: chocolates that you bite the top off of, and then shoot back the alcohol that resides inside!

A trip made on a chilly spring day can be met with their trademark Cayenne Hot Chocolate, a Mayan-inspired hot chocolate laced with cayenne pepper. The chocolate satisfies one’s sweet tooth, while the pepper burns its way down the drinker’s throat right into his or her belly - the perfect way to warm up on a cold day in the city!

For more information, visit www.suite88.com.

Brothers Dressler

2009-01-30T00:00:00.002-05:00

Twin brothers, Jason and Lars Dressler, have always shared an interest in building and have been working together since 2003 on custom-designed furniture, unique projects, batch productions, and one-off pieces.

Approaching design as engineers and craftsmen, the brothers focus on sustainable processes and materials to bring their work to life. Their efforts result in works which evoke a sense of harmony between the natural and industrial worlds.

What stands out amongst their several pieces (which include tables, benches, etc.) is their onedge series: a line which uses plywood on its edge to create form, structure, and comfort.

The cantilevered design of the onedge rocker offers slight flex and movement. The onedge lounge (now in its fifth generation), is comprised of repeated elements that are bolted together without the use of adhesives. Designed for relaxation, the cantilevered base offers flexibility and bounce for added comfort.

Both designs are available with or without arms, while the lounge can be accompanied by an ottoman that can also be used on its side as a table or stool.

Due to their environmentally-friendly mandate, any excess materials from their onedge series is transformed into cutlets and bracelets.

For more information, visit www.brothersdressler.com.

Phonofone II

2009-01-23T00:00:00.005-05:00

Constructed entirely from ceramic, the Phonofone II is clever piece of applied science, a beautiful icon of nostalgia, and a twist on personal listening devices.

Through passive amplification, these unique pieces instantly transform any personal music player and earbuds into a sculptural audio console. Upon connecting active earphones to the Phonofone II, the music instantly transforms into a warm, rich, and resonant sound.

Without the use of external power or batteries, the Phonofone II inventively exploits the virtues of horn acoustics to boost the audio output of standard earphones to up to 55 decibles (or roughly the maximum volume of laptop speakers).

And, to ensure the Phonofone II is a piece of audible art, each piece is signed and contains a serial edition number.

For more information, visit www.scienceandsons.com.

Greta Constantine

2009-01-17T00:00:00.009-05:00

Jersey is a popular weave of fabric, with its versatility seen in shirts to shorts. But, it takes a special kind talent to whip it into something that allows the wearer feel calm, cool and confident.

Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong are the men behind Greta Constantine - a sexy and glamourous line for women who have a taste for designs that accentuate and flatter the body.

Established in 2005, Wong's draping and design expertise, paired with Pickersgill's knowledge of fashion forecasting was a collaborative partnership since the start. Their first presentation of sensual bathing suits on models (both female and male) slinking around, left the audience wanting more. Since that moment, they haven't stopped giving their fans more of the same.

From short shirts, to dresses, to evening gowns, season after season they manage to show a variety of styles that are versatile and suitable for almost every body type. Whether lounging around by the pool, or going out to a gala event, Greta Constantine proves that it doesn't matter what kind of material is used, but how it's used.

For more information, visit www.gretaconstantine.com.

Jessica Lertvilai

2009-01-10T00:00:00.004-05:00

There are a million different ways to tell or show someone you love them. Sadly, very few of them are original. There are requisite flowers, chocolates, diamonds and doo-dads. Been there, done that.

Is there anyone who can come up with a new way of loving someone else? Yes, there is.

Artist Jessica Lertvilai has come up with a vase that combines the essence of words with that of language in a completely new and novel fashion. Using earthenware, she has designed the “Love Is Blind” vase – a vessel that contains a love message transcribed into Braille on the side. The faint and delicate texture is just waiting to be touched, and the hidden meaning is a little secret between two lovers.

You can bring flowers home, but make sure to keep this vessel on hand for an extra special – and romantic – touch.

For more information, visit www.mobcollection.com.

Hollace Cluny

2008-11-25T00:00:00.004-05:00

There are few home and design stores that make people want to buy everything in stock as long as their credit card is accepted. Hollace Cluny is such a store.

Having been in business for over 10 years, Hollace Cluny understands that good design is based on inspiration, meticulous attention to detail, and perseverance.

Upon entering, nothing is out of place, yet everything is comfortable and non-threatening to touch and hold.

The store provides inspiring design solutions while offering service that goes above and beyond. Their sales associates are an integral part of the business, providing personalized and professional service. There is no attitude here. Everyone is both passionate and highly knowledgeable about design.

Hollace Cluny is an authorized dealer of Knoll, Canadian design icon, Martha Sturdy, Simon Pearce (glassware), and Georg Jensen (stainless/steel works) - to name a few.

Scattered throughout the store are beautifully-upholstered furniture pieces from interior designer and telebvision personality, Sarah Richardson. There is a selection of sofas, chairs, ottomans, etc. that will last the test of time (at least, style-wise).

Even though there are pricey items available, there are a lot of designer finds that won’t hurt someone’s credit card. Sometimes buying a letter opener is enough to make someone feel like a million bucks when slashing through a Visa envelope. Almost.

For more information, visit 1070 Yonge Street (Toronto, Ontario), or www.hollacecluny.ca.

Philip Sparks

2008-10-29T00:00:00.004-04:00

Sometimes it takes an engaging idea to inspire a designer to conceive of a collection that will make wearers want to buy several pieces, if not all of them. For designer Philip Sparks, his concept of a chic petty thief is one that creates a lot of covetable items for Fall/Winter 2008.

Pieces can be interchanged and worn from morning to night. Whether it’s a cardigan or vest worn over a shirt with a collar with a twist, or a suit with sharp details, it’s all there.

Coats are luxurious in cashmere and wool. Both long and shorter styles were seen in greys and creams - perfect for any occasion, but ideal for those special nights out on the town.

Fabrics range from tweeds to leathers with a good dash of beaver fur mixed in to keep warm when the temperatures drop. Who doesn’t want a pair of fur gloves in winter?

With the tailoring leaning more towards the traditional, there are some contemporary frills seen in the cut of some of a tuxedo with braided trim, leaner jackets and fuller pants.

Overall, Sparks creates a style of a common criminal that a man won’t have to resort to robbing a bank in order to look just as good as the models on the catwalk.

For more information, visit www.philipsparks.com.

Arcoino coin bank

2008-10-15T00:00:00.004-04:00

A penny saved is a penny earned. But, what do you do with all of those pennies? Put them in coin bank, of course!

The Arcoino coin bank from Umbra can make saving your pennies more stylish. Designed by Matt Carr, this polished aluminum seems to grow out of the surface on which it rests. A perfect addition to any office, the smooth and sleek design wouldn’t feel out of place on a desk of a business professional.

For more information, visit www.umbra.com.

Marlon Durrant

2008-09-18T00:00:00.005-04:00

There’s nothing quite as luxurious as having something custom-made. It’s designed to the specifications of one person, and no one else.

From the initial consultation to the final fitting, a Marlon Durrant client is guaranteed a shirt that will fit their body type, and will appeal to their sense of style. They take great care with the details: cuffs, collars, and monogram styles are talked over with the owner to suit his personal needs.

There is an endless selection of colours, textures, and patterns to choose from. The fabrics range from two-ply cotton and linen, to silk and voile imported from Italy.

Every step of the way, the client is consulted in order to create something that is one-of-a-kind - that is true luxury.

For more information, visit http://www.marlondurrant.com/.

Mink Chocolates

2008-09-09T00:00:00.004-04:00

Canada’s cold is nothing new, but when looking for a place to escape it, there is definitely a new player in town. Even in Vancouver, where the concept of “cold” is laughed at by the rest of nation, there is still a need to run into the closest shop to get in out of the rain. The new chocolate café, Mink, is a perfect gathering spot for downtown dwellers who aren’t interested in the multitude of coffee shops that populate every corner.

Mink offers up hand crafted chocolates that serve as canvasses for original works of art. There is also an eclectic collection of chocolate bars that include flavours such as pistachio, chai, peanut butter with a hint of “j”, and ginger, to name a few. Looking for something more substantial? Try their toasted Belgian waffles drizzled in chocolate and your choice of whip cream or fresh fruits. Then for dessert, order a round of their chocolate fondue. There’s even a mini hibachi so you can roast marshmallows!

Can Mink claim to have the best hot chocolate in the city? With “high cocoa content,” customers get a choice of either dark or milk chocolate to help warm up their tummies. For an extra treat, get one laced with “Peppermink,” their pet name for organic peppermint. Their hot chocolate is guaranteed to slide down one’s throat smoother than silk, while satisfying the chocoholic in all of us.

For more information, visit www.minkchocolates.com.

John Fluevog shoes

2008-08-28T00:00:00.004-04:00

Shoes. Let’s get some shoes. John Fluevog shoes, that is. Freshly opened this month is John Fluevog’s world headquarters that popped up in his old stomping grounds of Gastown in Vancouver, BC.

Back in the 1970s, Fluevog set up shop along these cobblestone streets only to become one of the world’s most popular shoe designers, with fans ranging from Madonna and Marilyn Manson to Robert Altman and the Scissor Sisters.

Some have called his work “rebellious footwear” while others call the art-deco inspired styles “fashionable yet functional.” Either way, his shoes are a mainstay on the international footwear scene and with the new flagship store open, he’s making himself quite at home.

The store itself is a magnificent two-story parking lot turned cathedral with huge glass windows overlooking Vancouver’s railyards and the North Shore mountains as a backdrop.

With displays made from “reclaimed old growth wood, propped up by salvaged pipe from the Alaska pipeline,” the space is environmentally conscious as well as beautiful. Portuguese shoe leather adorns the back wall while a “Green Wall” is being planned where plants will grow up the side of the neighbouring building.

For more information, visit www.fluevog.com.

JP Purveyors Home

2008-08-10T00:00:00.003-04:00

Asian influences have been a staple in design for more than a decade. But, there are few stores that manage to combine these elements in a modern context.

JP Purveyors Home sources fully-refurbished and rebuilt Chinese country furnishings and accessories, in addition to carrying a vast array of affordable non-antique gift items, accessories and home fashions from around the world.

Amongst the antiques are an edited selection of armoires, chests, cabinets, chairs, occasional tables, and sideboards. Each unique piece has been hand-selected and expertly finished by craftsmen in China before arriving in the store. Since they’re a direct importer, they’re able to offer pieces at lower prices - enabling shoppers to enjoy a piece or two in their homes.

JP Purveyors Home believes that creating a beautiful and comfortable home is important. Home is a place where you love, a place that will contain some pieces from this store.

For more information, visit 634 Queen Street West (Toronto, Ontario), or www.jppurveyors.com.

The Paper Place

2008-06-20T00:00:00.004-04:00

Green may be the predominant tone of Trinity Bellwoods Park, but colour reigns supreme across the street at The Paper Place.

Inside the store, a panoply of paper covers almost every horizontal and vertical surface. Some of the highlights include: large sheets of Japanese and Nepalese on paper racks, Chiyogami Papers, and hand-stencilled Katazome-shi.

But, TPP doesn’t only sell handmade paper. They also offer card stock and envelopes in a range of colours, ready-made cards, art supplies (stamps, ink pads, and designer hole punches), and a variety of books on origami and scrapbooking.

For those who aren’t artistically inclined, a series of journals, photo albums, and guestbooks are also in stock. And, if all else fails, the helpful staff is always there to lend a hand to the confused and befuddled.

Undoubtedly, there’s a something for everyone, and that’s why it’s difficult to leave TPP without buying something. It could be that they found the secret to being a successful store.

For more information, visit 887 Queen Street West (Toronto, Ontario), or www.thepaperplace.ca.

Bungee wallet

2008-06-06T00:00:00.004-04:00

Since the cut and style of pants are slimmer than in the past, it’s difficult to hold a wallet in a pocket without an unsightly bulge. What to do? Carry a slim wallet.

With a design pedigree coming from BMW, the Bungee wallet is sure to make a slick impression. The pocket-sized carrying case has a translucent acrylic front, an aluminum back, and a molded cap attached by elastic cord.

Even though it’s small, it can hold paper bills, a credit card, ID, keys, and some protection (just in case).

Best of all, it’s available in four colours to match any outfit.

For more information, visit www.umbra.com.

Dayton Boots

2008-05-27T00:00:00.007-04:00

These boots are made for walking, and so much more. Dayton Boots, established in Vancouver, British Columbia in 1946, has become the little company that could.

It began as a maker of logging boots, but has since expanded into the realm of Western and Motorcycle for both men and women. Daytons have become known as one of the best brands of Boots the world over.

Each boot is made meticulously by hand and the company even offers a lifetime warranty on them. Some of their most famous and popular designs include the Black Beauty (pictured above) and the Classic Engineer. Because Daytons are easily resoled and reconditioned, it’s no surprise that some pairs last for over a quarter century.

For more information, visit www.daytonboots.com.

Club Monaco eyewear

2008-05-20T00:00:00.004-04:00

Club Monaco is known the world over as a retail concept that designs, manufactures and markets its own clothing, accessories, and home collection, and now it's introducing a line of eyewear for today’s urban professional.

The collection is chic and iconic. The collection features modern interpretations of classic styles perfect for someone who wants to make a subtle style statement.

With UVA and UVB protection, all styles retail for $79 to $99 (U.S.), and are available in select Club Monaco stores in the US and Canada.

For more information, visit www.clubmonaco.com.

EQ3

2008-04-18T00:00:00.006-04:00

The concept of high style and low prices comes together in Winnipeg-based EQ3’s line of furniture and accessories.

Their spacious Toronto showroom resembles a two-story loft seen in magazines: extra high ceilings, exposed ductwork, natural finishes, and tall windows that fill the place with natural light.

The set up is that of a really laid-back and cool condo. Throughout the store are small room vignettes - a living room over here, a dining room over there, and a bedroom in between. Styles have a modern slant, but transitional in nature. The fabrics are neutral, the finishes dark, and the textures varied.

EQ3 also carries sleek office furniture (the Bensen office chair, inspired by a Herman Miller design, is a steal at $399), a wall of tableware and glassware, linens for the table and bed, and accessories.

Selection is key at EQ3. There are a variety of pieces that can be placed in any home – classic or contemporary. It’s difficult to choose just one thing to take home, so it’s best to come back several times.

For more information, visit 222 King Street West (Toronto, Ontario), or www.eq3.com.

Neighbourknowledge.com

2008-04-07T00:00:00.006-04:00

Want to know what’s going on in a neighbourhood before moving in? Now, it’s possible with www.neighbourknowldge.com, a website that allows anyone to get the 411 instead of dialing 911 when already living there.

In other words, this site is an online meeting place for locals to share their knowledge about their communities. Currently based in the Toronto area, the neighbourhoods covered include those from east to west, north to south.

Pages can be added for anything - a business, school, community group, etc. - and conversations can start with ’neighbours’ about the topic at hand.

Additionally, viewers can explore neighbourhoods, homes, know what’s going on, and meet locals (at least, virtually).

Although still in its infancy, neighbourhoodknowledge.com is one of the easiest ways to visit a new place without leaving the comfort of one’s own computer.

For more information, visit www.neighbourknowledge.com.

Toronto Fashion Week

2008-03-17T00:00:00.006-04:00

Whether or not you’re interested in fashion, inevitably you face it on a daily basis while glimpsing into the closet to choose something to wear for the day.

Now in its seventh year, L’Oreal Toronto Fashion Week (March 17-22) brings together a coterie of designers, models, hair and makeup people, photographers, media, fashionistas and fabulistias to the city where they’ll watch a week’s worth of runway shows - most being held in the tents of Nathan Phillips Square.

Toronto may not be as well-known as some of the more established capitals of fashion (Paris, Milan, New York), but its youthful spirit allows prevails in the highly-competitive world of design.

It’s not as if there isn’t any established talent exhibiting their collections on the runways. People like David Dixon and Joeffer Caoc have helped put Toronto on the map as a destination of Canadian style. Additionally, there are always new designers trying to make a name for themselves on these runways.

Fortunately, fashion fiends who want to take part in the festivities but fears the exclusive nature of the industry won’t allow them to enter the tents, can take part in the festivities. A single show ticket is available for $20 (while full-day general passes are $50) and allows any style aficionado to see what the cognoscenti will be drooling over.

For more information, visit www.fdcc.com.

Arthur Erickson

2008-03-03T00:00:00.004-05:00

Vancouver-born and world-renowned architect, Arthur Erickson, recently took a hit when his 1962 Graham house was demolished in West Vancouver. Modernists raged against the developer who made the decision, saying it was an atrocity to tear down a house that is one of the few remaining pieces of modern, Canadian design.

Apparently, the truth of the matter was that the house had become a Frankenstein-esque home, with features (like an elevator) being added over the years, taking over the magic of the original design. Even so, the site was historic and it begs the question of when private property should be preserved for its heritage.

Erickson’s other houses have sprung up around North America, including New York’s Fire Island House.

To see more of Erickson’s work, check out his website before that, too, gets torn down.

For more information, visit www.arthurerickson.com.

Tobias Wong

2008-02-13T00:00:00.003-05:00

Canadian-born artist Tobias Wong has been carving out a name for himself for much of this past decade. His work is irreverent, ironic, and cheeky. From a diamond ring whose setting is hidden on the inside (”Who else should care?”) to pills filled with silver (”So your shit can sparkle!”), his back catalogue alone serves as the best supply store for those who want to celebrate Valentine’s with a little more edge.

Take, for example, a reverse diamond ring from his “Diamond Project” that’s “Perfect for tagging any surface!” Just don’t drop it into the champagne - the results could be disastrous if swallowed.

Tired of paying $100 for a dozen red roses? For a little bit more, why not purchase something romantic and functional? Wong’s Ballistic Rose Brooch is the perfect V-Day gift to show a loved one that you care about them and their safety. Made from bullet-proof material, this is one flower that will still be in bloom long after the red roses have wilted away. Wear it over the heart to ward off stray bullets!

For something a tad more sentimental, check out Wong’s popular Sunjars. Charge them up during the day and they provide the perfect lighting for that romantic dinner you have planned. They’re also good for solitary nights while sitting down and eating a TV dinner. Enjoy!

For more information, visit www.brokenoff.com.

coe&waito

2008-01-25T00:00:00.004-05:00

Former Industrial Design students at the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD), Alissa Coe and Carly Waito are the two artists behind a coe&waito - a line of porcelain pieces that combines sculpture and beauty in one.

Many of the objects are slip cased in moulds the artists create themselves and each object is carefully hand-finished. Portions of the objects are often unglazed, exposing the beauty of the raw porcelain. These exposed areas are thoroughly sanded, leaving a soft smooth finish to touch.

Although their collection includes functional tabletop items, small sculptural pieces, lighting, as well as larger installation-based projects, it is their line of Rorschach-inspired vases that catches the eye.

Slip cast in porcelain, with creamy clear glaze, these vessels comes in three sizes, each with a selection of black ink blot inspired botanical decals to choose from.

Are the designs supposed to represent a tree? A leaf? A flower? No matter what the viewer sees, it’s always beautiful.

For more information, visit www.coeandwaito.com.

Daniel Schneider

2008-01-12T00:00:00.009-05:00

There is a list of established artists who are recognized after producing a series of iconic works. Georgia O’Keefe is celebrated for her floral-inspired watercolours, Jackson Pollack is accredited for mastering the drip method, and Canadian Daniel Schneider is noted for his Chandelier Series of drawings.

Schneider’s drawings explore the transition from non-traditional still-life drawing to abstraction. Using the repetitive act of mark-making, the accumulation of line creates a visual tension between the flatness of the surface and the illusion of spatial depth.

“The continuous layering technique takes place until the work reaches a point at which it hovers between representation and abstraction,” says Schneider. “The essence of the original chandelier remains, while the viewer’s attention is brought to the formal element of line and the physicality of the mark-making process.”

His now-iconic drawings have made several appearances around Canada (Four Seasons Hotel, Cityline, and issues of Canadian House and Home), proving that Canadian artists can make an impact on the design world.

For more information, visit www.danielschneider.ca.

Submissions to Canuck Canuck

2008-01-12T00:00:00.008-05:00

Canuck Canuck is always looking for what’s cool in Canada and it needs ideas and/or contributors to help out; from coast to coast.

If you know a person, place, or thing that’s worth noting, contact stevenfromtheeast@hotmail.com - your review will be published.

Contributors

2008-01-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

Editor-in-Chief

Even with his two degrees, Steven realizes they can only take him so far in the working world. Sitting behind a desk, doing repetitive tasks can produce copious amounts of boredom.

So, while refining his media, presentation, and project management skills at PR agencies, non-profits, and cultural institutions, his multi-tasking always leaves time to write for the creative world of publishing - print and digital.

As the editor of Canuck Canuck, Steven’s main focus is the latest and greatest Canadian art, books, design, food, entertainment, and people who make this a great nation. To him, it’s human nature.

**

West Coast Editor

Alan Woo lives and writes from the Wet Coast, aka, Vancouver, British Columbia. When he isn’t doing yoga, smoking bud, or hitting the slopes, he can be found trying to uncover the secrets of the rapidly growing city. He has written for Rice Paper magazine, The Georgia Straight, Vancouver magazine, and Xtra West.

Canuck Canuck

2008-01-10T00:00:00.001-05:00

The Canadian cliché of igloos, Eskimos, Mounties and moose still lingers in the minds of many. But, Canada is more than a series of stereotypes. Canada is a country of cities juxtaposed with wide-open spaces, a land created to house various cultures, and a nation that’s home to millions.

It’s also the home to some of the best shopping, food, artists, entertainment, etc. in the world. And, that’s where this site comes in.

Canuck Canuck is out to find the coolest in Canadian culture and creativity. It’s about the people, places and things that many miss out on because they don’t know about their existence.

Canada is home to many things, and Canuck Canuck is there to talk about them.

O Canada. We stand on guard for thee.