By Shairoz Manek

On 26 October 2010 Mount Merapi the largest active volcano in South-East Asia  erupted. The volcano permanently destroyed farms, ruined the livelihood of a village, left thousands homeless, and killed over 300 people.  Abu Dhabi based Shairoz Manek was there shortly after it happened, and here she relates her experience with Tempo…

Interview by Angeli Castillo

Scribbles on the school cafeteria tables, paintings in exhibition halls, murals adorning cathedral walls, carvings hollowed out in domes… this is the work of ‘SAFE.’ No, ‘SAFE’ is not just a feeling, but also the name of an expressive artist who speaks his mind and tackles controversy with a spray paint can and a gas mark.

SAFE, whose last exhibition was in March 2011 and whose next will probably be this month, was ambushed by Tempo for a rare interview….

LA FONTANA

The Scene: If you like dramatic modern environments, you’ll love this café. Comfortable sofas against brushed stone walls with a few majlis for private rendezvous , a very Italian feel with an Arabic touch to it. The word “Fontana” translates from Italian to mean “Fountain” and a place like this wouldn’t be termed as such if it wasn’t for the sound of water splashing from an ornate fountain located at the corner. The space is broken up by bay tree and vine topiary, as well as accent lighting—all designed to enhance well-being. While the air-conditioned interior space is striking, the atmosphere can be boisterous, so it’s definitely not the place for a romantic meal, but it’s certainly worth an hour of your time.

By Blakniss

Original game head from Atari to Xbox

Quirkat: The Epicentre of Arab Gaming

Game Hedz spoke to Mahmoud Khasawneh and Candide Kirk, co-founders of Arab game developer, Quirkat, an ambitious studio poised to put the region on the world’s gaming map. Here are highlights of the interview:

Sent in by Ma. Cheryl Esteban

By Elisa Castiglioni

by Lily Kapoor