Latest news with #TheFoundry
Malaysian Reserve
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Malaysian Reserve
NGSC 2025 Expands Programme at the World's Largest Esports Conference with New Speakers, Content Stages and Strategic Forums
With over 1,500 delegates, the Riyadh event will host 500 CEOs, alongside Hideo Kojima, Steven Bartlett, and leaders from Amazon, Ubisoft, and FIFA , alongside new investor tracks and masterclasses. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Aug. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has announced an expansion of its New Global Sport Conference 2025 (NGSC) programme, confirming additional speakers, new content tracks and event design updates for its return to Riyadh on August 23-24. Held at the Four Seasons Hotel during the Closing Weekend of the Esports World Cup 2025, the world's largest esports and gaming event, NGSC 2025 is the leading global platform at the intersection of gaming, esports and sport. With over 1,500 delegates confirmed, the event will welcome more than 500 CEOs, presidents and board members. Attendees represent more than 25 major game publishers, as well as over 50 elite esports Clubs, and leaders across global sport, technology venture capital and media. New NGSC 2025 speakers include iconic game creator Hideo Kojima, one of the most influential figures in interactive entertainment, and his longtime friend and collaborator, film maker Nicolas Winding Refn; Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot, the force behind Assassin's Creed and Far Cry; and Matthew Ball, a pioneering tech authority, investor, producer and global best-selling author. Media entrepreneur Steven Bartlett brings insight from Diary of a CEO, while Dan Clancy, CEO of Twitch, will explore how their platforms are shaping the future of gaming and live entertainment. They join speakers and attendees that include World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen, Peter Moore, former CEO of Liverpool FC, LA28 Chairperson and President Casey Wasserman and senior executives from FIFA, Activision, Sony, SEGA, Hero Esports and the Esports World Cup Foundation. Hans Jagnow, Director of Special Projects, said: 'Over two years, NGSC 2025 has evolved into the world's largest forum for leaders in gaming, esports and sport. This year, we expanded stages and content to bring together a growing audience of visionaries who see NGSC as the ultimate platform to define the next game. We look forward to the ideas, commitments and connections forged at the booked-out event that will drive the growth and innovation of our industry and shape what's next.' NGSC 2025 introduces new formats for strategic dialogue and insight through The Foundry, an exclusive stage hosting masterclasses, workshops and curated roundtables. While most sessions are open to registered guests, select high-level discussions will be by invitation only. Within The Foundry, the Investor Track connects leading investors with high-potential ventures in gaming, esports and sport through a series of closed-door, investment-focused sessions. A new NGSC Studio stage will host live podcasts, interviews and original content over the two days, giving a platform to the voices and ideas shaping the future of sport and entertainment. Alongside this, the expanded Media Village will serve as the central hub for press activity, real-time content and storytelling across the event. The preliminary programme is now live, with more sessions and speakers to be announced. A major update from the Esports World Cup Foundation is expected during the conference. The registration for NGSC 2025 closes on Friday, August 16, 2025. Limited tickets are still available at To learn more about the New Global Sport Conference and the Esports World Cup, visit and and follow the New Global Sport Conference and the Esports World Cup Foundation on LinkedIn. About the New Global Sport Conference The New Global Sport Conference (NGSC2025) is the flagship event of the Esports World Cup Foundation, serving as the premier global forum where gaming, esports, and sport converge. Held annually in Riyadh during the final weekend of the Esports World Cup, the event unites CEOs, investors, and industry pioneers to drive transformative global initiatives and foster collaboration on the growth and future of these dynamic industries. About The Esports World Cup The Esports World Cup (EWC) is a premier annual sporting event and global celebration of competitive excellence and esports fandom. The competition features a unique cross-game format that pits the world's top esports Clubs against one another for the largest prize pool in esports history. Hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the summer of 2025, the EWC brings gaming and esports communities together again to crown the next Esports World Cup Champion. Photo – – –
Leaders
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Leaders
NGSC 2025 Expands with New Speakers, Stages & Forums at World's Largest Esports Conference
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has announced an expansion of its New Global Sport Conference 2025 (NGSC) programme, confirming additional speakers, new content tracks and event design updates for its return to Riyadh on August 23-24. Held at the Four Seasons Hotel during the Closing Weekend of the Esports World Cup 2025, the world's largest esports and gaming event, NGSC 2025 is the leading global platform at the intersection of gaming, esports and sport. With over 1,500 delegates confirmed, the event will welcome more than 500 CEOs, presidents and board members. Attendees represent more than 25 major game publishers, as well as over 50 elite esports Clubs, and leaders across global sport, technology venture capital and media. New NGSC 2025 speakers include iconic game creator Hideo Kojima, one of the most influential figures in interactive entertainment, and his longtime friend and collaborator, film maker Nicolas Winding Refn; Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot, the force behind Assassin's Creed and Far Cry; and Matthew Ball, a pioneering tech authority, investor, producer and global best-selling author. Media entrepreneur Steven Bartlett brings insight from Diary of a CEO , while Dan Clancy, CEO of Twitch, will explore how their platforms are shaping the future of gaming and live entertainment. They join speakers and attendees that include World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen, Peter Moore, former CEO of Liverpool FC, LA28 Chairperson and President Casey Wasserman and senior executives from FIFA, Activision, Sony, SEGA, Hero Esports and the Esports World Cup Foundation. Hans Jagnow, Director of Special Projects, said: 'Over two years, NGSC 2025 has evolved into the world's largest forum for leaders in gaming, esports and sport. This year, we expanded stages and content to bring together a growing audience of visionaries who see NGSC as the ultimate platform to define the next game. We look forward to the ideas, commitments and connections forged at the booked-out event that will drive the growth and innovation of our industry and shape what's next.' NGSC 2025 introduces new formats for strategic dialogue and insight through The Foundry , an exclusive stage hosting masterclasses, workshops and curated roundtables. While most sessions are open to registered guests, select high-level discussions will be by invitation only. Within The Foundry , the Investor Track connects leading investors with high-potential ventures in gaming, esports and sport through a series of closed-door, investment-focused sessions. A new NGSC Studio stage will host live podcasts, interviews and original content over the two days, giving a platform to the voices and ideas shaping the future of sport and entertainment. Alongside this, the expanded Media Village will serve as the central hub for press activity, real-time content and storytelling across the event. The preliminary programme is now live, with more sessions and speakers to be announced. A major update from the Esports World Cup Foundation is expected during the conference. The registration for NGSC 2025 closes on Friday, August 16, 2025. Limited tickets are still available at To learn more about the New Global Sport Conference and the Esports World Cup, visit and and follow the New Global Sport Conference and the Esports World Cup Foundation on LinkedIn. About the New Global Sport Conference The New Global Sport Conference (NGSC2025) is the flagship event of the Esports World Cup Foundation, serving as the premier global forum where gaming, esports, and sport converge. Held annually in Riyadh during the final weekend of the Esports World Cup, the event unites CEOs, investors, and industry pioneers to drive transformative global initiatives and foster collaboration on the growth and future of these dynamic industries. About The Esports World Cup The Esports World Cup (EWC) is a premier annual sporting event and global celebration of competitive excellence and esports fandom. The competition features a unique cross-game format that pits the world's top esports Clubs against one another for the largest prize pool in esports history. Hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the summer of 2025, the EWC brings gaming and esports communities together again to crown the next Esports World Cup Champion. Short link : Post Views: 21
The Independent
08-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
This art-filled hotel in the heart of Shoreditch is home to two works by Banksy
Striking works from street artist D*Face combine with sleek, modern design in this hip East London hotel – expect inventive cocktails, a contemporary European restaurant and rooms with floor-to-ceiling skyline views. Location Located in Shoreditch on the border with Hoxton – both areas of creativity and cultural contrast – the hotel is perfectly placed for guests to discover Columbia Road Flower Market, Whitechapel Gallery and the buzzing Brick Lane (for vintage stores, pop-up exhibitions and traditional curry houses). The nearest Tube station is Old Street (a five-minute walk away), on the Northern line and only a few stops from King's Cross and St Pancras (for rail – including Eurostar – links); change here to reach West End theatres and shopping spots. The vibe The 27-storey building makes an immediate impression, standing out amongst the more conventional architecture that surrounds it. The site was previously home to The Foundry, a cult arts space frequented by the likes of Banksy. Two pieces by the world-famous street artist were saved during construction of the hotel, and are now slotted in place over the entrance. While sleek and geometric from the outside, the interiors are a riot of colour and intrigue. Escalators that whisk you up to reception are almost entirely enclosed by enormous comic book-style murals by D*Face, the London-born artist known for highly stylised graffiti-punk satires. His pieces are the driving force behind the hotel's visual identity, with neon-lit sculptures and provocative canvases – making the large spaces feel effortlessly cool and welcoming. The service They might be going for an uber-cool East London vibe, but classic hospitality is at the hotel's core. Staff will happily send anything requested up to your room (earplugs, extra tea), and – despite the number of guests passing in and out – staff tend to remember your name. Owing to the architecture, all of the 357 rooms offer sweeping lookout spots, filled with natural light. They're big by London standards, even in the smallest category, and are slightly toned down compared to the brash hues in public areas, with clean lines and neutral tones and comfortable beds dressed in soft white linen. Abstract or Pop Art pieces from D*Face adorn the walls and brightly coloured cushions inject colour. Bathrooms, all with showers and some with baths, are stocked with toiletries from Australian brand Kevin Murphy. Illy coffee machines come as standard in all rooms, and in some you'll find sketch pads – should the skyline and art-filled surroundings inspire you – and record players with a decent selection of vinyl. Food and drink The Brush Grand Café is a multi-purpose spot, done out with wood panelling and polished concrete floors. It's where guests stop by for breakfast, with a selection of buttery pastries plus an à la carte menu offering dishes such as eggs Benedict, Florentine or royale, shakshuka and a prosciutto and chilli jam toastie. Lunch and dinner menus offer elevated, easygoing British-European fare – think salt beef Scotch egg and flatbreads topped with 'nduja, mozzarella and basil, through to steaks, moules-frites and gently spiced veggie curries; a crisp coating on the Wiener schnitzel makes it a winning choice alongside a refreshing cucumber and dill salad. There's an outdoor terrace open year-round, and a DJ set accompanies the weekend brunch. Upstairs is a lounge bar where you can graze on small plates or nurse imaginative cocktails such as the floral sakura highball (Johnnie Walker whisky, sherry and sakura vermouth mixed with white peach and jasmine soda). Live music spanning genres can be found each weekend. Facilities The spa offers treatments dedicated to focus, sleep, movement and environment. Guests can also book yoga classes. If you're in a hurry, quicker soothing comes in the form of Himalayan salt foot scrubs and collagen-boosting facials. There's a pool on the lower level, as well as a sauna and steam room, plus a gym on the 26th floor. You can borrow bikes to explore the local area (staff can suggest routes to follow), and in the basement, there is a gallery with a regular rotation of exhibitions. Disability access Accessible rooms are available. Pet policy Dogs are allowed (though not in the restaurant). Check in/check out Check in from 3pm; check out by 12pm. Family-friendly? Yes. There are menus for children and younger guests can use the pool, plus games are available in the rooms. At a glance Best thing: The high-calibre art collection – a real commitment to London culture. Perfect for: Anyone looking for an upbeat East London base. Not right for: Fans of a traditional, historical hotel stay. Instagram from: The rooms – you'll be hard-pressed to find a view of the rooftops like this nearby.
Axios
02-07-2025
- Business
- Axios
New riverfront restaurant, Daisy's, opening soon near Brown's Island
Richmond will soon have a riverfront restaurant, neatly positioned between Brown's Island and the new amphitheater. Why it matters: The closest restaurant to both popular concert destinations is currently almost a mile walk, uphill. And until now, the only Richmond restaurant north of the James with a view of the river has been roughly three miles downstream at Rockett's Landing. Driving the news: Daisy's at Tredegar is in the works inside The Foundry at Historic Tredegar event space, as first reported by BizSense. The restaurant is from chef Matt Kirwan, who previously worked as executive chef at The Roosevelt and Grisette, and Rawleigh Easley, co-owner of Neighbor restaurant on Northside. Daisy's will be an all-day cafe open daily, serving up coffee and breakfast sandwiches in the morning, then salads, burgers, sandwiches and drinks in the afternoon and evening. Zoom in: The restaurant is taking over the portion of the Tredegar event space that until last year was a visitor's center for the National Park Service. The building is owned by NewMarket Corp., the Richmond-based chemical company that also owns the land where Allianz Amphitheater opened last month.
CairoScene
30-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Skateboards, Hoops & a Kardashian in Aleppo: Meet Stephany Sanossian
A skateboard, a basketball hoop, a Hollywood celebrity, an ancient Armenian folk song—disparate elements, but all recurring motifs in the work of Stephany Sanossian. Her mixed-media collages don't just challenge the boundaries between East and West, tradition and modernity, memory and reinvention—they dismantle them entirely. Born and raised in Aleppo, Syria, of Armenian descent, and currently creating art between the Emirates and Lebanon, Sanossian's work is shaped by a profound sense of movement—across places, histories, and identities. Her pieces ask urgent questions: What does it mean to belong? How does nostalgia shape identity? And what are roots, if not connections? A multidisciplinary artist and designer, Sanossian moves fluidly between collage, installation, digital art, and traditional Syrian craftsmanship. One moment, she's reconstructing Aleppo's souq with superimposed images of Kim Kardashian; the next, she's collaborating with a craftsman in Damascus to create handmade Syrian marquetry. Nothing is off-limits in her world—except artistic stagnation. Her latest installation, Beneath the Ashes, which debuted at The Foundry's Contemporary Voices exhibition, draws on the poetry of Adonis, the legendary Syrian-Lebanese writer. The piece is rooted in displacement and memory, weaving in the lines: "Beneath the ashes, I search for my roots, For the first tales the sun wrote on the face of trees." 'Identity is both inherited and created,' Sanossian says. 'I wanted to explore what it means to hold on to something that constantly shifts.' Skateboards, Hoops, and Cultural Codes Sanossian's artistic practice thrives on contrast. One of her most striking series features skateboards inscribed with the lyrics of 'Sardarapat,' a patriotic Armenian folk song that commemorates the 1918 battle that saved Armenia from Ottoman invasion. Another series layers Hollywood icons over images of Syria's streets, blending high-gloss celebrity with the rawness of reality. 'When you mention Syria, people talk about war. No one talks about our culture,' she says. 'I want to change that.' Then there's the basketball hoop, a recurring image in her work. It's the playground hoop of every Middle Eastern schoolyard, a universal marker of childhood, community, and fleeting moments of unity. 'We all share the same sunrises and sunsets,' Sanossian says. 'Yet identity so often divides us.' From Barcelona to Damascus: A Journey of Dualities Sanossian's path to becoming an artist wasn't straightforward. She holds a Master's degree in Research for Design and Innovation from Elisava in Barcelona, a city whose surrealist aesthetic and bold design culture profoundly influenced her. But no matter where she moves, her art remains anchored in the Middle East. She has spent the past few years working to reclaim traditional Syrian and Armenian craftsmanship in new contexts. In 2022, she collaborated with a craftsman in Damascus to explore Syrian handmade marquetry, creating a fusion of traditional techniques and modern sensibilities, blending centuries-old woodworking techniques with contemporary design. 'I didn't want to just use digital tools anymore,' she says. 'I wanted to touch the materials, feel the process, and bring something tangible into the world.' That hands-on approach is also evident in her evolving relationship with NFTs and blockchain art—not as a rejection of tradition, but as an extension of it. 'We were already in the metaverse,' she says. 'It just got a name now.' Pop Culture, Irony, and the Art of Blurring Borders One of her most talked-about projects involves inserting celebrities into Syrian landscapes—Kendall Jenner lounging in Aleppo, Kim Kardashian shopping in the souq. The images are surreal, humorous, but also unsettling. Each piece toys with the idea of cultural voyeurism, forcing viewers to confront how the West consumes Middle Eastern identity—often as an aesthetic or backdrop, rather than a lived experience. Her "Aleppo Fashion Week" series, where runway models strut through historic Syrian sites, functions in a similar way. 'These places aren't just ruins,' she says. 'They hold stories. And those stories deserve to be seen in a different light.' A Relentless Drive to Create Sanossian's recent work includes group exhibitions at Leila Heller Gallery and Downtown Design Editions 2024, where her latest mixed-media pieces explore competition, resilience, and self-determination. "The Coach's Tablet: Wisdom and Strategy" plays on the metaphor of life as a coach's playbook—some overcomplicate it, others focus. The orange background symbolizes energy and determination. "Arena of Self-Competition" examines personal ambition through the lens of basketball, using the blue background to represent focus and introspection. For Sanossian, artistic blocks don't exist—only hesitation. 'Just sit down, stand up, do whatever you need to do,' she says. 'Make art. I promise you, it isn't ugly.' The Process: Collecting Fragments, Building Narratives Her creative process is meticulous. Before assembling a collage, she dives into deep research, archival images, and personal memories. Sometimes, she conducts informal surveys among friends and family—gathering perspectives before selecting materials. 'Finding unexpected connections between unrelated elements is part of the challenge,' she says. 'A celebrity, a historical site, a cultural symbol—once you layer them, they start speaking to each other.' When working on physical installations, she focuses on creating immersive experiences, where audiences walk through and interact with the work. 'It's not just about looking at something,' she says. 'It's about feeling its presence.' An Artist Between Worlds Sanossian's art is neither fixed nor finished—it exists in motion, constantly evolving. It speaks to the liminal space between past and present, East and West, digital and physical. Her world is one where a skateboard can carry the weight of a nation's history, where a basketball hoop becomes a metaphor for human connection, where Kim Kardashian wandering through Aleppo can make us reconsider everything we think we know about identity. "Art shouldn't be rare or exclusive," she says. "Its value isn't in its scarcity—it's in its ability to connect.'
