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El Cielo Miami and Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia, affectionately known as ‘Juanma,’ are delighted to announce that Elcielo's Miami location was awarded last night the first-ever Michelin Star in Florida, in great company with 14 other exceptional establishments. Just last year, Chef Juanma's other Elcielo location in Washington DC made history by obtaining the first star for a Colombian restaurant abroad and was just repeatedly awarded for its second year in a row a Michelin Star last month for that same location. Combining a variety of sensory experiences with one-of-a-kind flavors and textures, Chef Juanma, has revolutionized traditional Colombian cuisine by combining his avant-garde cooking techniques with his passion for neurosciences. Having trained under world-renowned chefs including Spain’s Juan Mari Arzak, Juanma combines classical training with modern techniques, resulting in a dining experience that is in a league of its own in Miami. On Thursday, June 9, Michelin Guide , the world’s most important and prestigious French rating guide founded in 1900 (nearly 122 years ago), for the first time ever announced its selection for awards in Florida, specifically focusing on the Miami, Orlando and Tampa region, making it a recognized global culinary hotspot. "This is a huge deal and honor not only for our restaurant group, but the city of Miami, as Michelin typically only reviews dining rooms in cities like Paris, New York, and Singapore, which are renowned for their refined culinary scene; but now Miami is finally getting recognized as an important food scene as the city continues to flourish with international tourists and residents alike," says Chef Juanma. "I think South Florida's burgeoning culinary movement with visionary chefs and restaurateurs alike, is a true reflection of the elevated direction this city is going in from tech to finance, designer retail shops, restaurants and more. We are no longer considered just a place to party, but being taken more seriously as a desirable destination to live, work, dine and play,” he adds. In 2015 when Chef Juanma decided to open his first-ever U.S. location of Elcielo in Miami, he knew this city was special and a true blend of all Hispanic and Latin cultures who’d appreciate his innovative twist on Colombian cuisine, as well as international tourists and Americans alike. “Our creative team has worked so hard to execute some of the most distinct sensory experiences and dishes using neurosciences, and we are thrilled to be recognized this year and awarded our first-ever Michelin Star for this location and in the state of Florida," Chef Juanma adds. Located at 31 SE 5th Street, Elcielo overlooks the Miami River at the confluence of downtown Miami and Brickell, creating a one-of-a-kind dining atmosphere. A stunning open kitchen greets diners as they enter Elcielo (translated from Spanish as ‘Heaven’); offering a chance to see an international team creating Barrientos’ unique vision. Passing through to the main dining room, a fully stocked wine cellar complements the illuminated bar, from which signature cocktails are created to accompany each menu. Elcielo’s menu changes every season with innovative new dishes that are a tribute to Colombian cuisine. Che f Juanma and the restaurant’s expert hospitality team strive to create a distinct and carefully crafted journey that taps into all five of your senses. The food and ambiance will transport you to the beautiful beaches of Cartagena and the mysterious corners of the Amazon jungle. THE EXPERIENCE , a 21-course artful menu boasts surprising sensory moments throughout the course of the night. It is priced at $197 per person and is served in the restaurant’s great hall section. The bar also features many of its signature and innovative Colombian cocktails. Designed by Chef Juanma and his family, the intimate 45-seat dining room combines elements that represent the Colombian soul – the same essence present in the Elcielo restaurants of Washington DC, Bogotá and Medellín – along with tropical elements of coastal Miami. Bathed in a variety of textures, the dining room features handmade furniture crafted from imported Colombian wood and leather, as well as decor that recalls the various travels through which Barrientos has honed his craft. According to The Miami Herald here , Miami emerged with 10 one-star restaurants and one with a two-star rating. Reviewers, called inspectors, eat at restaurants around the world and go to great lengths to remain anonymous. The inspectors judge the restaurants on five main criteria, he said, regardless of where they are: quality of the product; each dish’s “harmony of flavor”; mastery of cooking techniques; personality of the chef; and consistency between visits (if one inspector has a great meal and another doesn’t, that’s taken into consideration). No three-star restaurants were named in Florida. Only 13 U.S. restaurants have been awarded three stars: six in California, five in New York and one each in Washington, D.C., and Chicago. Visit Florida, the state tourism and marketing agency, and local tourism agencies in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa are paying the Michelin Guide an estimated $1.5 million over the next three years to rate Florida’s restaurants. The restaurants will be listed in a printed guide that Michelin sells and puts online. William Hereford Gwendal Poullennec , international director of the Michelin Guides, said he expects to see more starred restaurants in Miami in the years to come. The guide is “open-minded,” he said, and has no quota or a set number of stars that must be given (or withheld). “We’re always working,” he said. “We have inspectors constantly in the field. It’s a great beginning. Miami will be recognized as a global culinary hot spot.” By ML Staff. Images courtesy of El Cielo Miami

For ten glorious years, LUXE ISLE has been synonymous with quality, unique style, and that elusive touch of magic that transforms everything they do into something extraordinary. LUXE ISLE celebrated their 10th anniversary with Miami Swim Week at the iconic Art Hearts Fashion where the world's most stylish gather to witness the latest trends and breathtaking designs. It was the perfect backdrop for LUXE ISLE's grand unveiling.   Never missing the opportunity to create pure magic, LUXE ISLE unveiled their dreamy Mermaid Holiday Collection with the irresistible sparkle that LUXE ISLE is known for. This collection captures the spirit of the ocean’s mystique under cotton-candy skies and the sun-drenched joy of the holidays with pieces that feel like treasures from faraway places. Whether it’s a bikini that glimmers under the sun, or a flowing wrap that catches the afternoon light, each piece is designed to make you feel like a siren of the sea. LUXE ISLE is an innovative fusion of fashion and wearable art, offering unique designs that adorn the body and exalt the senses. Their pieces are beautifully detailed with intricate embellishments of sequins, tassels, fringe, beads, crystals, embroidery and other exotic touches in the most exquisite fabrics. You’ll feel beautiful and magical in their soft, romantic and flowing layers that accentuate femininity and create a feeling of boho chic luxury.  Behind the Scenes Meet Mali, the creative powerhouse and founder behind LUXE ISLE.  Mali grew up in a family of artists and found her passion for design while modeling and working in Fashion, TV and Movie Production. Fusing her artistic soul and experience of more than 20 years in the beauty industry as a model, makeup artist and stylist, she found her dream destination with LUXE ISLE. Introducing the Mermaid Holiday Collection LUXE ISLE has picked up many fans over the years thanks in part to the flashy, fantasy-themed, crowd-pumping shows they’ve become known for at Miami Swim Week. You could feel the energy when the models came gliding down the runway in a sea of sparkle, creating a frenzy of guests scrambling for their phones.  Each look was adorned in exquisite touches, notably the jeweled crowns and elaborate layered head pieces (their signature look) designed by Roxana Lynch.  Inspired by the sea and treasures found underwater, Roxana lovingly hand-crafted this collection specifically for Mermaid Holiday.  Elements of sailor knots, fishnet textures, shells, iridescent gems and baubles from all over the world were magically matched with each unique style.  The Mermaid Holiday Collection delivered a mesmerizing palette of pastel-hued floaty fabrics kissed with gold jacquard and hand-dyed, raw cotton, sexy off-shoulder maxis and dramatic robes with cascading, ruffled layers.  From the first stitch to the final flourish, each piece in the Mermaid Holiday collection told a story—a story of dreams, of the sea, and of the timeless allure of mermaids. It's a story that resonates with every woman who dares to dream, who loves the ocean, and who wants to re-live that glorious feeling of being on vacation. Each piece in this collection is a celebration of individuality and confidence, encouraging the wearer to embrace their inner mermaid and let their true beauty shine. The intricate designs, luxurious fabrics, and meticulous attention to detail make each item a work of art, ready to create beautiful memories.  LUXE ISLE’s journey over the past decade has been one of passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The Mermaid Holiday Collection is a fitting tribute to this legacy, embodying the very essence of what LUXE ISLE stands for.  Shop the looks online www.luxeisle.com  or email Mali for personal styling/shopping assistance hello@luxeisle.com .  You can also shop their upcoming POP UP in Miami, details coming soon. Follow LUXE ISLE on Instagram instagram.com/luxeisle  and join their VIP list for invites and exclusive sales www.luxeisle.com/apps/seguno/subscribe See LUXE ISLE’s Swim Week show: www.youtube.com/channel/UCAFlj1gK-loaETuXemCBUIQ By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Arun Nevander, The Black Gazelle, Valentina Z

ANDstudio | Architecture + Design: where creativity meets functionality in the heart of Miami. As a full-service boutique architecture and design firm, they specialize in crafting extraordinary spaces that resonate with elegance and innovation. Their diverse portfolio spans high-end residential and commercial projects, with a distinct focus on creating unique environments that enhance the quality of life and business. Photo Description:  One of ANDstudio latest project.: the design of a modern and unique 5,000 sq ft duplex in Miami by merging two adjacent duplexes into a single home. The highlight of this architectural project is a 35-foot-long concrete catwalk wrapped in white oak with glass railings. This stunning bridge spans the living room, which boasts a 20-foot-high ceiling, creating an airy and expansive atmosphere, ideal for showcasing an incredible art collection. Design Architects: ANDstudio - Photo @kris_tamburello Their expertise extends across prestigious locations, including waterfront houses in Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables, and Coconut Grove to upscale retail stores and office spaces in the Miami Design District, Bal Harbour, Coconut Grove, and Palm Beach. Their dedication to excellence is also evident in their work with Michelin-starred restaurants and charming dining spots. In the Miami Design District, they have contributed to the success of renowned brands such as Brunello Cucinelli, B&B Italia, Kith and Kith Treats, Stone Island, Ganni, Reformation, Lionstone Development, Creed, and Zadig & Voltaire. Currently, they are excited to be working on three new projects, continuing their tradition of blending creativity with functionality. Depending on the project’s needs, they serve as Design Architects or Architect of Record. Their team of ten dedicated professionals is led by two visionary principal architects who have been friends since their college days. David Schwade, a Miami native, began his career as an intern with Max Strang, while Dakota Hendon, originally from New York, brings extensive experience in planning, architecture, and construction management from both the public and private sectors. Both graduated from the School of Architecture at the University of Miami, and their combined expertise drives our firm’s innovative approach to design. Photo Description: David Schwade and Dakota Hendon, Principal Architects and Partners at ANDstudio, in their office in Coconut Grove Their Mission “At ANDstudio | Architecture + Design, we believe in forging genuine human connections through our work. Our mission is to guide clients through the exciting journey of transforming ideas into reality. We pride ourselves on being flexible and responsive, always aligning with our clients’ objectives while respecting their budget. By evaluating creative options and considering the site’s context, we craft special spaces that reflect our clients’ visions and needs”, explains Dakota. Photo Description: This unique home showcases this stunning new staircase and catwalk, that serves as both a functional and stylish feature, connecting two upstairs offices and bedrooms that offer breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay.  Design Architects: ANDstudio - Photo @kris_tamburello The Services “We offer a comprehensive range of services to ensure every aspect of your project is covered” says David. Some of the services offered by ANDstudio are: • Conceptual Design • Feasibility & Code Analysis • Schematic Design • Design Development • Interior Design • Construction Documents • Construction Administration We invite you to explore Their full portfolio and see how they trully bring spaces to life at www.andstudio.design . W hether you are looking for a stunning residential design or an innovative commercial space, they are eager to help you realize your vision. Contact  For inquiries or to discuss your project, please reach out to: Felipe Nicola | Business and Operations 2420 SW 27th Avenue, Suite 3, Miami, FL 33145 Office: 786.409.7145 Email: felipe@andstudio.design  | info@andstudio.design Website: www.andstudio.design Instagram: @ andstudio.design By ML staff. Images courtesy of ANDstudio.

Amid the array of amenities that modern condos offer, one feature stands out as the ultimate offering for basking in the sun and glorious freedom of summer: a pool with a view. Four new South Florida properties are upping the ante on the season’s favorite amenity, offering an experience that blends relaxation, aesthetic pleasure, and a sense of escape that is unparalleled. ONE PARK TOWER BY TURNBERRY Located in the 184-acre SoLeì Mia community in North Miami, ONE Park Tower by Turnberry ( turnberryoneparktower.com ) features two private pools and a 7-acre swimmable lagoon with a beach club. The 6th floor amenity deck pool offers stunning views of the lagoon, Oleta River State Park, Biscayne Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Miami skyline. The pool area has lounge seating and is close to amenities like a golf simulator and pickleball courts. Property staff provide exceptional service, including a Beach Concierge for paddleboard and kayak rentals and dining from The Lagoon Café. The 33-story tower offers 292 residences, including one, two, and three-bedroom units and penthouses, designed by Arquitectonica and Meyer Davis. EDGE HOUSE MIAMI Designed by renowned architect Kobi Karp with interiors by the award-winning Adriana Hoyos Design Studio, Edge House Miami ( edgehousemiami.com ) offers a sophisticated retreat for lounging and swimming with both active and tranquil pools flanked by lounges and lush foliage against a backdrop of breathtaking city and sunset views. Located in Miami’s buzzy bayfront neighborhood Edgewater, the 57-story condominium features sophisticated living spaces, seamless access to the city’s top attractions, and a comprehensive array of amenities and services catering to diverse needs and desires, including indoor and outdoor lounge areas, a kids club, wellness center, fitness center, private yoga studio, flexible co-working spaces, 24/7 valet, front-desk concierge and a welcoming lobby lounge. Ideal for buyers in search of flexible ownership in one of the most highly sought cities in the U.S. THE STANDARD RESIDENCES, MIDTOWN MIAMI Located in the 184-acre SoLeì Perched on the rooftop of The Standard Residences in Midtown Miami ( thestandardmiamiresidences.com ), a 60-foot resort-style rooftop pool, whirlpool spa, outdoor rain showers offer pool vibes reminiscent those that The Standard is known for from Hollywood to Miami. The lushly landscaped rooftop will also be home to a bar and Juvia-branded restaurant with striking views in every direction. With only 228 pied-à-terre-style residences ranging from studios to two-bedrooms, The Standard Residences brought Arquitectonica and Urban Robot on board to deliver a distinctively designed lifestyle building with curated amenities including a state-of-the-art sweat room and fitness center, an infrared sauna, an indoor pickleball court that doubles as a party room (disco balls included), pet spa, and yoga and stretch studios. PIER SIXTY-SIX RESIDENCES Built for global explorers and local Floridians alike, Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale ( piersixtysixresidences.com ) is designed to combine stunningly sumptuous amenities with an exciting social harbor experience. The property will offer an array of sun-soaked experiences with a three-level swimming pool that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a seat in the sun, a private cabana to luxuriate in the shade or a place to splash around with the family. Three lush pool decks will cascade from the resort down to the marina. The VIP Pool is an exclusive space for lounging with a poolside bar that will deliver tasty bites and beverages to owners’ day bed, chaise lounge, or breezy private cabana. The Adult-Only Pool provides blissful serenity, with alfresco dining overlooking the marina, while the Resort Pool boasts an exhilarating three-story slide and a fountain – and a bar, for après-swim relaxation. By ML Staff. Images provided by each featured property on this story.

Unleash your creativity at Drawing You In! These monthly sessions will explore drawing basics and numerous techniques that inspire creativity and mindfulness while fostering a deeper appreciation for art. This month, artist Gerald Obregon  will lead us in a second session. This workshop is recommended for guests aged 14 and older. All materials are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Capacity limited to 30 participants. RSVP required. Date: Tuesday, August 6, 2024 Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM Location: Frost Art Museum FIU RSVP here By ML Staff. Courtesy of Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum

The PGA TOUR announced today that California based Procore Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: PCOR), the global provider of construction management software, will become the title sponsor of the PGA TOUR’s Napa tournament, to be named the Procore Championship. The Procore Championship will serve as the kickoff event to the 2024 FedExCup Fall Season at Silverado Resort, September 9-15. All four rounds will be televised domestically on Golf Channel and Peacock, with PGA TOUR LIVE on ESPN+ providing featured group coverage on Thursday and Friday. The Procore Championship dates to 2007, with the event being contested at Silverado Resort since 2014. In 2023, California native Sahith Theegala secured the first win of his PGA TOUR career with a twoshot victory over S.H. Kim. “We are thrilled to welcome Procore to the PGA TOUR family as title sponsor of an event that offers a unique combination of PGA TOUR golf and hospitality in a setting that only the Napa Valley can offer,” said PGA TOUR Chief Competitions Officer Tyler Dennis. “Sahith Theegala’s first PGA TOUR win in Napa last year in front of dozens of friends and family was one of the great storylines of the season, and we are excited to have the Procore Championship lead off year-two of the FedExCup Fall.” “We are honored to partner with the PGA TOUR as the title sponsor of the Procore Championship,” said Sarah Hodges, chief marketing officer, Procore. “This partnership reflects our commitment to community and innovation, two values that are deeply ingrained in both construction and golf. We look forward to kicking off the 2024 FedExCup Fall Season with the Procore Championship and supporting the Napa Valley community through this prestigious event.” As the leading software provider for the construction industry, Procore has more than 2 million users across the globe that are building our world and communities every day. Procore’s platform streamlines project management, communication and documentation for construction professionals and builds predictability into every stage of construction with data-driven insights. The company’s comprehensive platform has been instrumental in various PGA TOUR-related projects, including the construction of PGA TOUR Studios , a new multimedia content facility slated for completion in January 2025. Net proceeds from the Procore Championship will benefit non-profit organizations through The Impact Through Golf Foundation Napa Valley, which provides funding to charitable organizations throughout the country, with an emphasis on the greater Napa Valley area. Charities that have recently benefited from the Procore Championship include Ole Health Foundation, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, the Cameron Champ Foundation, First Tee – North Coast, Queen of the Valley Foundation, Jameson Humane Rescue Ranch, Napa Valley Community Foundation, Youth on Course and Travis Air Force Base Reserves. General admission and hospitality tickets for the Procore Championship will go on sale Aug. 1, which in 2024 will include The 1955 Club, a new shared hospitality venue on the 18th green that includes a fully shaded winery-themed tent along with hosted lunch and afternoon sacks, outdoor theatre-style seating and other amenities. Visit ProcoreChampionship.com for ticket information. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of PGA

It was a full day of matches at Streamsong for the third day of the Junior Amateur Match Play Championship. All divisions competed in the Round of 16 in the morning before moving into the Quarterfinal Matches in the afternoon. Boys (16-18) The number one seed, Clipper Salmon defeated Ronav Benak in 19 holes in the Round of 16. Clearly, a close match throughout its entirety, however Salmon pulled through and captured the win to advance to the afternoon and face Jeremy Hsu. Hsu defeated the number eight seed in the Round of 16 to advance to the Quarterfinals. Another upset of the morning matches included William Huang defeating the number four seed, Arth Sinha. Huang captured the victory 1 up to face Dylan Mason in the afternoon. The afternoon brought another exciting round of matches as the field consisted of only the top eight player. Tommy Tyler defeated the number two seed, Evan Raynor, 7&6 to advance to the Semifinals tomorrow morning. Other notables moving to the Semifinals include, Salmon defeated Hsu 4&2 and Mason defeated William Huang 4&3. Boys (13-15) The younger boys competed in their first round of matches this morning and saw the biggest upset of the Round of 16. The 16th seed, Henry Crowe, defeated the number one seed, Nolan DeForest, to advance to the Quarterfinals. Crowe won two up to face Evan Booth in the afternoon. Other notable morning matches included, Evan Booth defeating David Stone Blackburn 7&6, and Kenny Klein defeating Blake DeJongh 6&5. Crowe spoke about his win, "I was trying to give myself as many opportunities as I could. Putting was definitely one of my strong suits today. I didn't miss very many putts and I gave myself a lot of opportunities." Henry Crowe continued on his streak to defeat Evan Booth 4&2 and advance to the Semifinals tomorrow morning. Girls (13-18) The girls division saw some fantastic rounds of golf. Defending champion and the number one seed, Ana Boone, defeated Kaitlyn Hummers 5&3 to advance to the afternoon. Boone spoke about how she was planning on approaching the Quarterfinals, “I felt really confident in my morning match. My irons have been really good and my distance control is feeling really nice right now, so I am just going to try to keep doing that and see where it goes.” In addition, Alexandra Snyder won her morning match 7&6 to advance to the Quarterfinals. Synder faced Angela Yiting Wang in the afternoon and won that match 7&5 to advance to the Semifinals tomorrow morning. Snyder spoke about her success in the tournament thus far, “I am just sticking to my process and taking my time, staying aggressive when I need to, and also making the putts when I need it.”  Other notable afternoon wins include, Boone defeated Ryan Donaldson in 20 holes, Islay Benoit defeated Alyssa Mixon 3&2, and Mara King defeated Zoe Shamy 1 up. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of FSGA

The Miami Marlins today announced that the team has acquired Minor League infielder Wilfredo Lara from the New York Mets in exchange for right-handed reliever Huascar Brazobán. Lara , 20, is rated as the 22nd-best prospect in the Mets system per MLB Pipeline, and has slashed .244/.349./.343 (69x283) in 78 games this season for High-A Brooklyn, with eight doubles, four triples, four home runs, and 29 RBI. Signed by New York (NL) as an International free agent out of Bani, Dominican Republic, the right-handed hitter owns a career .247/.348/.390 (214x867) slash line in 250 games (2021-24) in the Mets Minor League system, with 39 doubles, 11 triples, 21 home runs, and 104 RBI. Last season, Lara's 122 wRC+ tied for the seventh-best mark in the Florida State League, while he was one of only seven players at the Single-A level with at least 14 homers and 14 steals. Brazobán , 34, made 20 relief appearances for Miami this season, going 1-2 with a 2.93 ERA (10 ER/30.2 IP). He held opposing batters to a career-low .179 AVG (20x112). Across nine outings in July, Brazoban did not allow an earned run (13.2 IP). The right-hander made a career-high 50 appearances in 2023, posting a 4.14 ERA (27 ER/58.2 IP) while notching a career-high 65 strikeouts. The Villa Mella, Dominican Republic, native owns a 7-5 record and and 3.64 ERA (48 ER/ 118.2 IP) in 94 career Major League games with Miami (2022-24). The seven-year Minor League veteran was signed by the Marlins as a Minor League free agent on Jan. 4, 2022, and had earlier spent five years in the Rockies organization (2012-17). By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Miami Marlins/Getty Images

The Miami Dolphins have signed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a contract extension through the 2028 season, it was announced Sunday. Tagovailoa, a first-round selection (fifth overall) by Miami in the 2020 NFL Draft, enters his fifth season with the Dolphins. He has played in 53 games with 51 starts, completing 1,096-of-1,638 passes (66.9 pct) for 12,639 yards and 81 touchdowns along with 137 carries for 381 yards and six rushing touchdowns. He is a two-time team captain (2022-23) and holds the highest passer rating in Dolphins history (97.1). A Pro Bowl selection in 2023, Tagovailoa became the first Dolphins player since Dan Marino in 1992 to lead the league in passing with 4,624 yards and the second to throw for more than 4,500 yards in a season. He finished fifth in passer rating (101.1), tied for fifth in passing touchdowns (29) and second in yards per attempt (8.3). He also posted a 69.3 completion percentage in 2023, the best mark in team history in a single season. Over the past two seasons, Tagovailoa has been the NFL's highest-rated passer on third down. Last September, he became the first Miami player in 30 years to win AFC Offensive Player of the Month. In 2022, Tagovailoa became the youngest NFL quarterback to lead the league in passer rating (105.5) since Marino in 1984. He also led the NFL in red zone passer rating (112.2) and third-down passer rating (130.1) in 2022. Tagovailoa won the Don Shula Leadership Award and was named the Polynesian Offensive Player of the Year in 2022. He played collegiately at the University of Alabama. Tua Tagovailoa Signs Contract Extension By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Miami Dolphins

A Fata Morgana is a mirage that appears when still air meets layers of warm or cold air above, refracting the light to create strange impressions in the sky. Sailors named the phenomenon after the malevolent sprite of Arthurian legend, Morgan le Fay, believing these pearlescent forms meant them harm. In the Arctic, a Fata Morgana can create the illusion of distant mountain ranges stretching across sea ice, disorientating travelers. For those living in the desert, a glittering strip of silver on the horizon giving the illusion of water is not such an arresting sight. ‘For us it is a symbol of hope,’ says the Saudi artist Ahmed Mater . ‘It keeps us walking and walking, but it gets farther and farther away until the destination becomes the journey itself.’ He echoes the words of the Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, who wrote about his ‘desert-haunting visions’ in A Rhyme for the Odes : ‘I am the traveler and the road. Gods appear to me and disappear. We don’t linger upon what is to come.’ Ahmed Mater (b. 1979), Illuminations IV, 2022. Mixed media on paper. 102 x 152 cm. Courtesy of the Royal Commission for AlUla This is the basis of Ashab Al-Lal , a vast installation by the 44-year-old artist, situated in the hot sands of Wadi AlFann, a 65-square-kilometre ‘valley of the arts’ in AlUla in the north-west of Saudi Arabia. Mater’s extraordinary design is set to become one of the world’s defining earthworks. Like Walter De Maria’s 1977 New Mexico installation, The Lightning Field , and Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty (1970) in Utah, it defies belief: an otherworldly structure suggestive of ancient civilizations or an alien edifice. This site-specific commission is featured in Christie’s exhibition Ahmed Mater: Chronicles , a world-first retrospective tracing the career of a man who started out in medicine and is now one of the leading artists in the Middle East. The exhibition features photographs, paintings, videos and sculptures, as well as the forthcoming Ashab Al-Lal at its center. Ahmed Mater (b. 1979), Study II, 2022. Graphite on paper. 50 x 60 cm. Courtesy of the Royal Commission for AlUla The sophisticated engineering project takes its place alongside new sculptures by pioneering land artists James Turrell , Agnes Denes and and Michael Heizer , together with a new commission by the Saudi artist Manal AlDowayan . The work is comprised of a giant oculus buried in Wadi AlFann. Visitors descend through a tunnel into a subterranean chamber, where a mirage will reflect their image above ground so that walkers in the desert will encounter their apparition. Conversely, ‘people inside will see the image of the people outside’, says Mater, who adds that he considers the mirage to be ‘the language of the desert’, a place of magic and illusion, mysteriously changing under different conditions. Ahmed Mater (b. 1979), Illuminations I, 2022. Mixed media on paper. 152 x 102 cm. Courtesy of the Royal Commission for AlUla Ahmed Mater (b. 1979), The Stage (plate), 2022. Waterjet Rosa Asigo marble, stainless steel mirror interior. 12.3 x 113 x 66.6 cm. Courtesy of the Royal Commission for AlUla Inspiration for the artwork comes from a variety of sources, among them the astronomer Ibn al-Haytham (965-1040), who helped conceive of the camera obscura and identified three geometrics by which light reaches our eyes. Artists including Jan van Eyck used al-Haytham’s guidelines to create optical complexity in their paintings, bedazzling onlookers with tricks of perspective and illusionistic effects. The Cenotaph for Newton, an unrealised design by the 18th-century French architect Etienne-Louis Boullée for ‘a true Earthly Paradise’ where day would become night and night day. Lithograph. Private Collection. Photo: UIG / Bridgeman Images Another influence is the 18th-century French architect Etienne-Louis Boullée, who conceived of numerous fantastic structures but built few. One of his most audacious proposals was a 500ft-high spherical tomb for Isaac Newton, in which the conditions of the universe would be reversed. Day would become night, and night become day. ‘This beautiful place,’ he wrote, ‘would be the image of all that ensures our wellbeing; it would fill our hearts with a sense of joy and would be for us a true Earthly Paradise.’ According to Ridha Moumni, Chairman of Middle East and Africa at Christie’s, Boullée’s structure was designed to celebrate humanity’s place at the centre of the universe. Ashab Al-Lal , however, places the natural and spiritual world at its core. ‘The work ties into a central idea in Mater’s artistic thought, that of the ephemeral nature of human life,’ he says. Ashab Al-Lal is located in the sands of Wadi AlFann, a 65-square-kilometre ‘valley of the arts’ in the north-west of Saudi Arabia. Courtesy of Ahmed Mater Mater’s experience as a doctor continues to influence his work, which often addresses the fragility of existence and the presence of God. In his early X-ray paintings, he seemed to be searching for the human soul. ‘The idea of looking deep within ourselves, exploring the inside of our beings, became my touchstone,’ he says. ‘I suppose you could say it was a powerful metaphor in a community and religious culture that generally discouraged too much self-analysis.’ As Mater’s artworks have become more ambitious, so too has his quest for spiritual truth, with the artist seeking out its presence among the pilgrims of Mecca and in the vast sandstone canyons of Wadi AlFann. In Ashab Al-Lal he brings the wonders of the Enlightenment and nature together, echoing the words of Edmond Halley on reading Newton’s Principia : ‘Here ponder too the Laws which God/ Framing the Universe, set not aside/ But made the fixed foundations of his work.’ ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Christies. Click here  for the latest Christies auctions

In a purple-lit Staples Center, sporting a bright yellow Lakers bomber, Kobe lifted his head out of his hands as his teammates' name was called by the announcer. It was the final game of Kobe Bryant’s career, and Kobe was emotional. When Kobe’s name was finally called, the ground shook with cheers from his home crowd. In the huddle, with the camera looking directly into Kobe’s face – his expression bordered on rage. He was not going quietly into the night. Kobe Bryant in front of his locker, following his final career game. Photo included with lot. Just like Kobe had done time and time again, he performed at the highest level he was capable of. 60 points. It was a final and raw expression of Kobe’s ‘Mamba Mentality’, trying to be better every day at your craft. To the very last moment of his legendary career – Kobe was living his mantra. Returning to the locker room for the final time, as his teammates showered him in champagne, and standing in front of this locker, Kobe popped open a bottle of Dom Perignon and let it flow straight into his mouth. He had done it. 5 Championships (one more than Shaq was what really made him happy), 2 Finals MVP Awards, the 2008 Most Valuable Player, 18 All-Star Game appearances, 4 All-Star MVP awards, and 2 Olympic Gold Medals, were just some of his accomplishments. He celebrated it all here, at his locker. Kobe Bryant’s Staples Center Locker | Photomatched from 2004 – 2016 | Est 1,000,000 - 1,500,000 USD Among the many items to come to market from Kobe Bryant’s career, perhaps there none are more intimate than this locker, which Kobe Bryant used for the majority of his career, with the earliest photo documentation beginning in 2004 and ending in 2016. This locker was Kobe’s home at the Staples Center, and is an astounding museum-quality artifact from the Los Angeles Lakers legend. It witnessed everything, from the champagne championship celebration following Game 7 of the 2010 NBA Finals, to Kobe hanging his final jersey in 2016. The locker was discarded following the renovation of the Staples Center in 2018, and an individual involved with the project had the foresight to keep and store it. It was later obtained by a Private American Collector, and has been in the same collection since. The locker has been photo-matched by MeiGray to a stunning amount of time, spanning from the 2003-2004 NBA season, all the way until the 2015-2016 NBA season. A portion of the proceeds from the sale will directly benefit the Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation. The Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and uplifting the youth through education, sports, and community outreach and the official team charity of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Foundation’s mission is to help underserved youth develop their potential by providing positive experiences and resources in education, health and wellness, and sports. The Foundation also awards grants to other charities that support youth through direct services and programs in these areas. The Lakers Youth Foundation funds STEM Lab Projects, Reading and Learning Centers, basketball court construction and renovation projects throughout Los Angeles County and in Hawaii, and other initiatives and projects. In addition, Lakers have also contributed millions of dollars to worthy charitable causes and organizations, including through ticket donations, autographed memorabilia, Lakers merchandise, and countless appearances made by current players, Lakers Legends and the Laker Girls. *No portion of the purchase price is tax-deductible. ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Sotheby's

It was an exciting week at the Junior Amateur Match Play Championship hosted by Streamsong Resort. Oscar Crowe captured the Boys (16-18) Division victory and his younger brother, Henry Crowe captured the Boys (13-15) division victory. In addition, Alexandra Snyder captured the victory of the Girls (13-18) Division. The week started with two stroke play seeding rounds across the Red and the Blue Course. Upon completion of the seeding rounds, matches began on the Blue Course. Boys (16-18) The last day of matches was nothing short of exciting. Clipper Salmon faced Dylan Mason in the morning Semifinal match. In addition, Oscar Crowe faced Tommy Tyler. Salmon took an early lead going three up after the first three holes. However, Mason hung in and the two made the turn with Salmon 2 up. The match continued all the way to the 17th hole where Salmon captured the victory 3&1. Not too far behind, Crowe and Tyler were battling it out remaining tied through the first six holes. Crowe won the last three consecutive holes on the front nine to post a four-under-par 32 and take go three up on Tyler heading into the back nine. Crowe closed it out with a birdie on the 16th hole and was on to the Championship match against Salmon. The final match was certainly a close one, yet one that Crowe controlled throughout the entirety of the round. Crowe maintained at least a one up lead from the second hole and finally closed it out with a par on the 16th hole. Boys (13-15) Meanwhile Oscar Crowe’s younger brother, Henry, was also carving a path into victory. Crowe faced Nicholas Brown in the Semifinals and the match lasted until the 18th hole where Crowe made birdie and posted a four-under-par, 68 to capture the win and advance to the Championship match. In addition, Henry Wang faced Barrett Green in the morning Semifinals and this match also lasted until the 18th hole. Wang stuck his approach shot to about three feet and tapped in for birdie and the win to advance to the finals against Henry Crowe. Another solid matchup, but one where yet another Crowe stayed in control throughout the entirety of the match. Crowe closed it out on 16th hole, 3&2 to raise the trophy next to his older brother. Oscar Crowe spoke about winning this event with his brother, “It’ pretty special that both of us were able to come out on top in each of our divisions. We’re both pushing each other along everyday and we kept checking in on the leaderboard to see how each other was doing, and I think it’s pretty awesome that we both ended up being on top at the end of the week.” Henry Crowe also explained how it was going through this experience with his older brother, “Sometimes we’re in the same division and we are competing against each other, but this time both of us get to come out on top and it’s really awesome.” Girls (13-18) Alexandra Snyder put on a show today as she glided to her second championship victory. She defeated Islay Benoit on the 17th hole, 2&1, in the Semifinals and earned her spot in the championship match against defending champion, Ana Boone. Moreover, Boone defeated Mara King also on the 17th hole to face Snyder. The championship match was set containing two excellent players. However, Snyder took the lead after winning the first hole and never gave it up. She continued on to card nine birdies in only 15 holes to defeat Boone 4&3.  Snyder said, “It’s easier to make putts when it’s match play because I feel like I can be more aggressive. This week I really tried to just stick to my process, and stay aggressive, and make putts when I needed to.” By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of FSGA