From Buonamassa’s Lens
Gent (Belgium) during the Christmas days. Shots from Diplomat Magazine’s photographer Walter Buonamassa. click here for more beautiful pictures http://www.flickr.com/photos/98057281@N02/sets/
Exotic Invaders at the Hofvijver
By Catherine Kailey.
One of the side benefits of travel is a heightened acuity to oneâs own environment after having returned from a trip, whether it be it near or far. For those of us who find ourselves living away from our country of birth for many years, âadaptionâ eventually gives way to assimilation. In my case, the city of assimilation, and residence, is The Hague.  Soon, we may conclude that âhomeâ, wherever it may have been, is no longer âhomeâ, as we have become mere sojourners in a once familiar, but now increasingly foreign, land. Simultaneously, we have successfully adapted to our new environment.
While walking my dog along the Havenkade by Westbroek Park, in recent years, Iâve often noticed a streak of exotic lime green flashing past from above accompanied by a din of excited squawking. Local birdlovers, like me, immediately recognize the distinctive sounds and colors of the Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri) or  Halsbandparkiet, as it is known in Dutch.
Were it not for a delightful visit to the Malaysian city of Melacca (Melaka) which is well known for its historic Dutch colonial city center and, since 2008, has been listed as an UNESCO world heritage site; I would never had thought to consider that the Rose-ringed Parakeet has also settled in The Hague as an alien. This tropical bird, to use the formal Dutch term, is an âExootâ or exotic and is native to northeast Africa and southeast Asia.
Melaccaâs historic 17th C. Stadthuys on the Crimson Square, is certainly worth visiting, but a riverside âslaapboomâ or sleeping tree, is what really captivated my attention during my visit to the city. Thousands of local parrots can be observed descending nightly upon an âAvatarâ like tree at dusk for a communal ritual of sleeping safely together amongst the branches of a stately old sleeping tree in the old city center. Some months later, after having returned home to Scheveningen, I mistook the first pair of Rose-ringed Parakeets that I saw darting amongst the trees at the park, for successful caged escapees, only to later learn that there several âcoloniesâ have taken up residence in Dutch urban areas and one of the largest colonies, numbering some 5,000 birds, is to be found in The Hague. Naturally, I was eager to learn where their âsleeping treeâ was located and was amused to discover that they have taken up residence at the Binnenhof or, to be more precise, on the âislandâ in the Hofvijverâin front of the prime ministerâs âlittle tower.â
These âfeathered foreign invadersâ may not be âangry birdsâ, but in the eyes of a few concerned caretakers of âmonumental treesâ, naturalists and government officials; their presence in the community is increasingly unappreciated. In an article written last February 13th, Boudewijn Revis (city caretaker), announced that 6 of the 25 chestnut trees along the Hofvijver have been so damaged by the birds that they must be cut down and removed. Further, the independent Advice Council on Monumental Trees (Adviesraad Monumentale Bomen) has labeled the damaged trees a âsafety risk.â
It would seem that the Rose-ringed Parakeets days at the Hofvijver may be numbered. If, and when, their trees are removed, they will be forced to migrate elsewhere. According to SOVON, the Dutch Center for Field Orinthology, an organization which actively monitors and counts wild bird populations for in developing nature management policies, management plans and spatial planning, some 10,000 Rose-ringed parakeets residing in major urban areas around the Randstad. In addition to The Hague, they have been observed in Amsterdam, Haarlem, Leiden and Leiderdorp and they have a known range of up to 30 km from their âsleeping treeâ so the hope may be that by removing the trees; the undesired winged âkraakersâ will be forced move on so that peace and tranquility will return to the little island in the Hofvijver.
Cuba : Example of Resistance and Solidarity.
By Zelmys Maria Dominguez Cortina, Ambassador of Cuba to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Each January 1st marks the anniversary of the triumph of the Cuban Revolution – that in 1959, put end to one of the bloodiest dictatorships of Latin America. The will of the Cuban people of ruling their own destiny became the main source of conflict with the powerful neighbor of the North, the United States of America, which believes that Cuba should be forever their backyard, as part of the written destiny for the Biggest Island of the Antilles.
However, Cuba followed the ideas of the Cuban National hero Jose Marti, by creating a sovereign anti-discriminatory project of political, economic and social system, based in the respect of all the rights of any human being; developing the capacities and potential of the population in order to build a better society. Cuba also condemns all interventionist and discriminatory political manner in international relations, as well as the threat or the use of force, unilateral coercive measures, aggression and all forms of terrorism; including State terrorism. The Constitution of the Republic of Cuba condemns any type of discrimination for reasons of race, creed or opinion.
The Cuban Revolution resisted for more than 50 years the blockade of United States towards Cuba. Every year at the General Assembly of United Nations the overwhelming majority of the countries of the world votes in favor of the draft resolution presented by Cuba entitled âNecessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial, and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America against Cuba.â Since its very conception, the blockade has been and it is a flagrant violation of International Law and is contrary to the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter and constitutes a violation of the right to peace, development and security of a sovereign State.
Given its stated purpose and the complex political, legal and administrative structure on which it is based, the blockade qualifies as an act of genocide under the Geneva Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide of 1948. The blockade has proven to be the main obstacle for Cuban economic and social development, the largest hindrance for expanding Cubaâs commercial ties with the rest of the world, and has become a serious restraint for the international cooperation that the country both provides and receives.
Nevertheless, the Cuban people not only showed during all their years their capacity of developing a successful system, but also supported other countries of the world, with doctors, professors, and technicians in many fields. The well known solidarity of the Cuban people to others all over the world is a great example of the victory of the Cuban project and the support of the people to the historical leaders of our Revolution.
Cuba is not isolated. It has diplomatic relations with 190 countries, orders and institutions (184 UN member and 6 do not). It has 148 locations abroad in 120 countries, including 119 embassies, 1 section of interests, 21 consulates general, 3 offices, diplomatic representatives and 3 representations to international organizations. On 5 January, 2014 the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Netherlands Frans Timmermans will visit Cuba, as a new important step towards the improvement of the bilateral relations, which also follows the positive trend of EU towards Cuba.
It is a matter of joy each anniversary of victories as a new step for a better world, because in Cuba, we believe that a better world is possible and we try to build it every day.
The Hague Political Academy
Presents
New Courses for Diplomats Spring 2014
After the success of the first course in October â November the Academy organises five different modules in order to familiarize foreign diplomats and expats with the Dutch society and politics. Course supervisor is Dr. Bob van den Bos, political scientist and former member of the Dutch and European Parliament. Also several distinctive guest speakers will share their knowledge and experience with the participants. Every participant will receive a certificate of attendance.
Programme
The sessions will take place from 5.15 pm until 7.30 pm at Prinsevinkenpark 24 The Hague.
Module 1 Dutch Domestic Politics                                                          April, 7, 9,10
Module 2 How to deal with the Dutch and Diplomatic Protocol       April, 14, 16
Module 3 Dutch foreign and European Policy                                       May, 5, 7
Module 4 European policy                                                                         May, 19, 21
Module 5 The role of the media                                                                June 2, 4
Subscription is possible for a single module or for a combination of several modules. Contact: Mr Boy Frank, Course manager, boy.b.frank@gmail.com or 06 23450937. Participation fees and other details will be published in the next issues of Diplomatic Magazine.
Web address: Â http://www.thehaguepoliticalacademy.nl
Â
Society Lunch
By Drs. Eva Maria Elisabeth Mennes.
Twice a year, in June and in December you can experience a completely different type of party than you normally go to in or around The Hague. The Society Lunch is strictly on personal invitation only. Twenty eight years ago the âdassenkoningâ or âking of tiesâ Tony Tetro together with the charming and famous Society journalist Barbara Plugge of The Telegraph initiated this most extrovert party. The organsation is in the hands of Mrs. Annette Wijdom, the owner of FAFA International Show dances and Star Academy. Her showgirls welcomed with sweet beauty and dressed like little angels the guests and performing artists.
This time the Society Lunch was hosted by the Hilton Hotel Rotterdam and all drinks, delicious snacks and buffet lunch were completely sponsored by the best and most well known shops for fancy people who enjoy life and are not ashamed of it. At the Society Lunch you can find ministers as well as artists and people from the show business. The Dutch Diana Ross is always present and also performs from time to time. The motto of this yearâs party was âSilver bells Christmasâ.
The winter edition is further enhanced with an award, which is sponsored every year by the sculptor Juliette van Bavel and handed over by Tony Tetro to two well known persons of the society. Different singers enjoyed performing for their many friends. Everybody tried to look dashing and it could not be more Holiday season.
The summer edition in june will have the theme âThe great Gatsbyâ and the direction of The Wittenburg Castle, Ralf Meppelder and his excellent crew will host the event: a guaranty that the next Society Lunch will be an even greater success.
Nane Lagerwev, Top-10 Dutch Golf Player
In Golf we Trust or Lost in delirium on hole 9.
By NanĂŠ Lagerwey, top-10 golf player in the Netherlands, former expat and MA in English literature. The golf and country club is the perfect place to meet your future ex-partner. Finally you meet a great person who plays golf as well, yet after a couple of years – and rounds that is – one argues fanatically about birdies and bogeys. Caddies meddle with others, rather than with the player he is responsible for. Golfclubs are being smashed around, whilst oneâs backswing is getting distracted. A 3-wood has been put deliberately on the ground to stumble over it on hole 7. Bunkers are everywhere in play from the ladiesâ backtees, just to prevent them from outdriving men. All of the above might have happened during national tournaments. Or even during a fun game at a local golf club. Disaster and delirium is what one experiences when you bring a partner along simultaneously when you should put your heart and soul into the game. At times, whilst reading the green I could think that âI can’t think straight anymoreâ. A thought like this often results into a 5-putt! Once bitten twice shy, since in the afternoon I did make exactly the same 5-putt again. My competitors play beautifully. Not only do they bring bananas, but also their fathers to the course. One father is more fanatic than the other, who promised his daughter an Imac if she keeps the bogeys from her scorecard. They are screaming as if their daughterâs golf game resembles the Ryder Cup. Girls shooting above 80 burst into tears; beautiful ingredients for a soup of the day, which is being served in the clubhouse restaurant. It is a shame that playing golf in Holland can sometimes be a nuisance when not the players but the ones around you take everything too seriously. When I lived abroad, in Europe and in Asia, golf was being played the way the game has been designed and intended. Overseas, people are proud of talented young players. One does not utter abbreviations, e.g P and S, but the irons are called by their highly respected names, i.e pitching-and sandwedge. One does not âwalkâ 9 holes, but one âplaysâ. After a game of golf we dress in tenue de ville, instead of jeans and t-shirts. Golf is a gentlemanâs game with etiquette, traditions and sportsmanship. This should be taken into account, but above all we need to enjoy it. Hit the ball, keep focus and drink espresso as undisturbed as possible.ARTS. Discover the best ART at TEFAF
By Luba Fateeva and Olga Golubova.
With the first spring month TEFAF, the most prominent Art event in the Netherlands, will welcome its guests in Maastricht. From March 14 â 23, 2014 266 dealers from 20 countries will present their best works. The Art Fair has established an unrivalled reputation as the worldâs leading fair for art, antiques and design.
What is special about TEFAF?
Last year TEFAF exhibited 18 fascinating and rare drawings of Van Gogh. They have been specially chosen to illustrate Vincent van Goghâs development as an artist. TEFAF offers a unique opportunity to see originals of many other artists such as â Picasso, Kandinsky, Mondrian, Jeff Koons, Francis Bacon and many more. TEFAF 2014 is promising exciting exhibitions of Russian-Greek icons, Chinese porcelain for Japanese market, Venetian masterpieces and of course the Dutch Old Masters. In other words, TEFAF as impressive as ever should not be missed!
Rustic Tastefulness together with Orange Holiday offer you a fully organized tailored group trip + a private tour at this unique event. To experience TEFAF to the fullest you should meet the international art specialists, who will share with you not only the highlights of the exhibition, but the most precious hidden gems.
If you cannot resist the temptation to buy art at TEFAF we will introduce you to the independent art consultants to advise you on possible purchases.
WHEN:Â March 14-23, 2014
Daily 11am – 7pm; Sunday 23 March 11am – 6pm
WHERE:Â Maastricht, The Netherlands
Day Program includes:
- ¡        Transportation to/back from Maastricht
- ¡        Entrance ticket
- ¡        Private guided tour
- ¡        Dinner with wine tasting
When Art is HarmonyâŚ.
The goal of the painting of Veronique Uijttenboogaart-Jullian, following Chinese tradition, is to achieve with the greatest perfection, an artistic charm touching infinity.
In the traditional Chinese philosophy, the universe is made of breath, Qi, of varying strengths and always moving. These breaths are the source of living. The case therefore is to recreate these breaths, these energies through a painting, an image that establishes a direct link between the universe, painting and men. The act of painting or watching a painting can find unity with the cosmos.
In this context, the painting of V.Jullian is more a lifestyle than an esthetic work. The sessions of Tai chi and meditation that precedes the act of painting are an integral part of her work. Similarly, during workshops or courses, she practices Tai Chi with his students before each session of arts education. <Rime breaths and movement of life> is a phrase that sums up the artistic practice of V.Jullian.
Act of painting.
Before painting, some preparatory acts are required. They consist of Tai Chi and meditation.
The act of painting of V. Jullian is derived from ancient Chinese techniques that require repeating single movements with a brush on the paper, until mastering it perfectly.
The act of painting is powerful. It can be slow, supported and fast. At the same time, it has to be mastered, mentally as well as physically. Each work is deeply meditated, prepared by numerous studies, photographs and notes. It is a manifestation of human cosmic energy, spirituality.
The mental preparation of a work is as important as the technique during the act of painting.
Space.
The space of the paper, the vacuum is an essential element in my work.It is as important as the shapes that are inscribed on the paper. It gives form, harmony, a sense of the infinity, timeless character.
Traveling in Asia.
In the manner of Aragon, travel is the time for a break, a time of discovery of the nature of the universe, people. V. Jullian uses her travel time to make pictures, drawings, sketches and making notes. Later she translates old this to her artistic work.
I organize tailor-made courses in your company, embassy of international organization. Itâs also possible to join actual Painting and/of Tai chi courses in the Hague. For information about works and courses of V.Jullian, please, see www.veroniquejullian.com
Exposition Suze Robertson (1855-1922)
By Drs. Eva Maria Mennes.
One of the many hidden treasures of The Hague is Panorama Mesdag. The panorama itself is already worth visiting whereas the museum now is focusing on the painter Suze Robertson with an exposition of drawings and paintings. The painter was one of the first female students visiting the ArtAcademy in The Hague. After having finished her studies she continued to take drawing- and painting lessons at the ArtAcademy in Rotterdam. She insisted on taking part of the lessons with a nude model which was restricted to male artist students only. Quirky and talented she works with strong expressionistic strokes and dark colors in the tradition of the HagueSchool, the art movement of the time. She was very much admired by her famous male colleagues Breitner and Van Gogh, art critics and merchants in the Netherlands and abroad. Charley Toorop, a lady painter from the beginning of the 20th century called her the most important female artist of the 19th century and one of the first full time professional lady artists in the Netherlands of her time.
The exposition at Panorama Mesdag, The Hague is open from 15th of December until the 23th of March 2014, Monday until Saturday from 10.00 to 17.00 and on Sundays from 12.00 until 17.00 hours. http://panorama-mesdag.com/
ARTS. New Museums in Mexico
Â
By John DunkelgrĂźn.
Director ARTANA latin American fine art
Â
In general I want to write on cultural subjects to do with The Netherlands, but my experiences on recent trip to Mexico were so special, Iâd like to share them with readers of Diplomat Magazine. Most people will have heard of the famous Natural History Museum in Mexico City with its treasures of pre-hispanic art, but there are several other major museums in the same area, like the Tamayo Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. All these are predominantly devoted to Mexican art and are well worth visiting. However, they were recently joined by two new museums that are more international in scope. The first is the Soumaya Museum in the Nuevo Polanco area which houses the collection of Carlos Slim, the Mexican mogul. The architect was his son in law, Fernando Romero, together with Ove Arup and Frank Gehry. The design of the museum is staggeringly beautiful (see photo) and original. There are four oval shaped floors filled with Mexican and international works of art. A whole floor is devoted to sculpture (mainly Rodin and Dali), one to Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros but also a huge display of pre-hispanic objects. There is a floor with an international collection of XIX and early XXth century paintings, among which quite a few Renoirs. The pity is that in spite of the magnificent building and the big names of the artists, the collection is essentially second rate. The works are placed hotchpotch all over the floor without any obvious plan and the descriptions (only in Spanish) are very minimal. It is a great pity because there are some real gems rarely seen together, especially the Dali bronzes on the top floor.
Right next door is the brand new Jumex Museum which shows the collection of Eugenio Lopez Alonszo and was designed by Davis Chipperfield. The building itself, while less spectacular than the Soumaya, is a real work of art and evidence of cutting edge museum design. It houses by far the best collection of contemporary (1990âs to today) art in Latin America, one of the best private collections in the world. It was brought together by the curators Patricia Martin and Patrick Charpenel. The floors wind around a central utility column with stairs and elevators and are large, bright, and very high without becoming cavernous. I was lucky to be at the pre-opening which among other exhibits had a whole floor devoted to the work of James Lee Byars: â½ an autobiographyâ.
Mexico City, already well supplied with well over a hundred museums, has just become that much more of a magnet for art lovers.
Â