lena tuck

Nestled in the Yarra Valley, approximately an hour drive from Melbourne’s CBD is the enchanting Dominique Portet winery. For a unique day escape from the demanding city life, Dominique Portet winery creates some of the finest wine, complemented by a traditional selection of light lunches, French patisserie, and of course, coffee.
Couturing was delighted to speak the vintner, Ben Portet, who has carried on his family’s own tradition of the Dominique Portet name. “We have a long family tradition of winemaking originating in Cognac, France in 1720. The Dominique Portet wines are a continuation of this, bringing tradition and innovation of winemaking to Australia so the wines have a European feel with an Australian openness.” The Portet’s are now tenth generation in the winery in maintaining its French heritage...

Amidst frantically shifting studios and moving to Japan, Couturing managed to sit down and have a chat with awe-inspiring artist Stanislava Pinchuk, also known as Miso. Being just 24 her work has been inspired across Australia and parts of the world. While she jumps from place to place and country to country, she still calls Melbourne home. After being a resident for over fourteen years and always being inspired by Melbourne’s artistic scene and beginning her artistic exploration at only 14 through street art and graphic design...

Hola, Compadres! It’s that time of the year to dust off those ponchos and pull out the good tequila, because its El Grito time! Mexican Independence Day this Sunday the 16th September, and if you’re anything like me and love a good excuse to eat disgusting amounts of delicious food, mix up some margaritas, all while in $2 shop moustaches then read on.

But if you’re wondering what to do and how to plan it then don’t worry because I’ve complied a list of Mexican fiesta ideas for you and your amigos’ to enjoy on this fine Spring Sunday.

Forget the messy fish bowls at Taco Bill; this is all about authentic Mexican experiences and the real deal quality food in Melbourne.

If you’re someone who does moderate exercise you’ll know how beneficial protein an hour after working out maximises muscle repair, and keeps you satisfied and energised. And as much as protein post- or pre-workout is important, having immediate access to a well-cooked steak straight after the gym isn’t always an option (but bro, I’ve just gotta get my fix & stay bulked!?) This is when you grab some (protein) balls and get on with it...

Simply making it as an artist today is already a feat in itself, but as a female and as an abstract painter, it’s an uphill journey. However Lani Mitchell has already trudged through the New York snow and made it look easy. It takes 4 days per enamel coating to dry, and more than 5 layers used. As I spoke to Lani I could see the layers of her paintings reflecting her mind’s intricacies. The drawn out process of strong emotions is what makes her art so unique.
I met up with Lani to discuss her recent shows, finding herself in New York and her recent collaboration with Melbourne artist Banoffee...

I’ve been thinking about this struggle for ideas, which is definitely a common theme among writers - regardless how put-together they seem. And sure, there are people who don’t struggle with it as much as others. But one of the great things about being a writer (self-confessed or otherwise) is our knack for observation; our ability to pick up on cues from environments, texts, books and world around us and to translate those into ideas and incredible stories...