Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1530881
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 22 DECEMBER 2024 4 ALMANAC My essentials MOIRA SCICLUNA ZAHRA 38, lecturer and illustrator I am a design lecturer and illustrator. I also run The Malta Community of Illustrators. Over the years I've worked with many local and international agencies, publishers and clients like The Phoenicia Hotel, Corinthia, Caffe Cordina, Creative Edinburgh and recently illycaffè. 1. Books 2. Film 3. Internet/TV 4. Music 5. Place MY relationship with mu- sic has changed drastically throughout the years. Nowa- days my playlist is dictated by my kids. With that said, one particular band that I have al- ways loved is The Cure. What I really appreciate about their music is the iconic sound that lingers in every album even though some are melancholic and others more playful. I al- so listen to popular contem- porary music. I would say my current favourites are Billie Eilish and The Weekend. Both seem to blend pop with darker more atmospheric sounds. ONE of my favourite places in Malta has to be Wied iz-Zur- rieq. I was raised nearby, and my friends and family swam there on most days during the summer. What I love about it is how wild and majestic it is, and particularly when there is no one about, it is quite a sight. On an island that is so overly constructed, it almost feels surreal to still have plac- es like this. I also appreciate that it has remained largely unchanged over the years, I get quite nostalgic when visiting. THE last book I read and en- joyed was No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai. After read- ing several of Haruki Mu- rakami's works, I saw some good reviews on Dazai's nov- el and was drawn to his raw, introspective narrative. The story is about alienation and identity and the protagonist's struggle with disconnection from society. It was an inter- esting read and even though throughout the book I was rooting for the protagonist, you just know deep down that it's not going to end well. TWO standout films I watched this year are Dream Scenario, starring Nicolas Cage, and Your Monster, a romantic comedy-horror. Dream Scenario follows a professor who gains pop- ularity when he appears in people's dreams, leading to both adoration and backlash, effectively tackling cancel culture. Your Monster tells the story of a young woman who discovers a monster in her closet, representing her fears. I loved the film's nar- rative and striking visuals, especially as the protagonist builds a relationship with the monster. I follow various illustration accounts and alternative fash- ion influencers, including Le- andra Medine Cohen @lean- dramcohen. Leandra led the team at Man Repeller, a blog that was focused on the idea that women often dress for themselves and not necessar- ily to attract men. It featured a mix of humour, commentary on trends, as well as broader cultural issues. Leandra still posts outfits on her own social media account that are often eclectic and very alternative compared to other popular influencers. I turn to her ac- count for a dose of something unusual in a sea of sameness. Compiled by Laura Calleja suggestions by email lcalleja@mediatoday.com This page is supported by Arts Council Malta 4 5 1 2 3