Chris Jordan’s carcass photography

WE'RE SUPPORTING

Latvian-born, UK-based artist Henrijs Preiss cites Russion Icons and Renaissance paintings as primary influences, but his paintings are surprisingly non-figurative. The images seem to draw from a cryptic system of iconography, as if they were panels from the temple walls of a futuristic solar cult. Read more

WE'RE TRAVELLING TO

The Suit Up exhibition comprises a number of artworks from various Australian street, comic, and illustration artists, each of whom has applied their unique style to that ubiquitous — yet, rarely tapped — canvas, the playing card. The designs have been produced as giclee prints, signed and numbered by the artists, and are limited to 10 prints of each design. Real-size decks of cards have also been produced for sale. The Suit Up crew is a close-knit group of predominantly Melbourne-based artists who are passionate about Australia’s ‘low-brow’ art scene, which is more collaborative and less ego-driven than much of the the high-brow art world. The exhibition runs between February 13 and 25.

WE'RE WEARING

The mining and refining that provides the world with precious metals is also extremely damaging to the environment – each ounce of gold mined generates 30 tons of waste, much of which is toxic. Philadelphia-based Rust Belt make unique, finely crafted earrings, necklaces, and bracelets entirely from re-purposed and recycled materials. The processes they use to make their pieces are also environmentally sound, and they are shipped in beautiful, re-purposed glass bottles.

WE'RE THINKING

It’s a fight: Mr Bacon vs Mr Tofu. Who will remain at the top of the foodchain? If you’re a toy freak, this will go nicely on the desk alongside your Berbrick, Kaws and Macbook Pro. Yup, it’s never too early to start planning Christmas gifts.

WE'RE READING

I don’t intend on tempting any grape cravings which some borderline AAs may be experiencing, but everyone deserves some red after a long day. Drop of the Day is an easy way to receive fantastic quality wine at an extremely competitive price. Sure there are places online that offer cheaper alternatives, but Drop of the Day offers quality wine that pleases your wallet and your taste buds, too. Better yet, there is a new drop available to choose from each day for around AU$9 per bottle. Hmmm, I recommend you go for the blends.

Heavy metal and hip-hop are perhaps the most popular forms of rebellion for kids the world over. In Malaysia, metal — particularly black metal — has taken such a strong hold that the Fatwa Council there banned it, fearing that the music would compel listeners to rebel against religion. Contrary to the council’s intentions, black metal is as popular as ever in Malaysia, and is a recognizable cultural touchstone there, as indicated by the above clip from the 2005 film Filem Rock.

WE'RE LISTENING TO

So 2008 brings its first great album of the year, the self-titled release from Susanne Sundfør, put out on a small label — Your Favourite Music — and a totally unsettling and challenging listen. Read more