The Lens
On moments of excellence
The Grand Theatre interior at Songshan Lake Exhibition and Performance Centre. Defined by 100,000 acoustic spines that ripple across its walls and ceiling, the space transforms technical performance requirements into a striking architectural expression. Photography by Virgile Simon Bertrand.
Where Culture Takes Form
Set along the revitalised Yuehe Lake waterfront in Dongguan, the Songshan Lake Exhibition and Performance Centre is a new cultural landmark designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. Inspired by the flowing forms of Cantonese Opera and traditional Lingnan architecture, the centre brings together performance, exhibition and public spaces while integrating sustainable design strategies that honour both heritage and innovation.
Installation view of CARTIER on display from 12 June to 4 October 2026, at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Sean Fennessy.
Cartier Arrives at NGV
On 12 June, the National Gallery of Victoria opens CARTIER, the 2026 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® exhibition and the largest presentation of the renowned jewellery house ever staged in Australia. Direct from London's Victoria & Albert Museum and exclusive to Melbourne, the exhibition brings together nearly 400 extraordinary jewels, timepieces and precious objects, including works associated with Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, Rihanna, Princess Margaret and Dame Nellie Melba. On display from 12 June to 4 October 2026, the exhibition explores more than a century of Cartier's enduring legacy in design, craftsmanship and cultural influence.
Team France celebrates victory at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ in Strzegom, Poland, strengthening its position at the top of the 2026 Series standings.
Fantastic France First in Strzegom
France delivered a commanding performance at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ in Strzegom, Poland, securing victory with an assured display across all three phases of competition. The result places the French team at the top of the 2026 Series standings as attention now turns to Avenches, Switzerland, where the race for qualification to the Boekelo Final continues. As always, The Lens follows the stories, partnerships, and horsemanship shaping the international eventing season.
Mercedes-Benz will introduce its new global concept to Australia with the opening of Mercedes-Benz Studio Sydney in September, bringing a destination for design, innovation and culture to the heart of Martin Place.
Mercedes-Benz Studio Sydney to Open This September
Mercedes-Benz is bringing its new global Studio concept to Australia, transforming a prominent corner of Martin Place into a destination where design, culture and innovation converge. More than a showroom, the Mercedes-Benz Studio Sydney will offer interactive experiences, product launches and cultural programming, creating a welcoming space that reflects the brand's vision of connecting with people beyond the traditional retail experience.
Mamula Island by Banyan Tree, within the restored nineteenth-century fortress, where original stone walls and enduring craftsmanship frame uninterrupted views across the Adriatic.
The Return of Mamula Island
At the entrance to Montenegro's UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor, a nineteenth-century fortress begins a remarkable new chapter. Reimagined as Banyan Tree's first European sanctuary, Mamula Island pairs heritage architecture with contemporary hospitality, inviting guests to experience the Adriatic through design, craftsmanship, wellbeing, and a profound sense of place. From thoughtfully restored Heritage Suites to immersive cultural programming and destination-led dining, every detail reflects a quiet dialogue between history and modern living. Here, the journey is as much about the island's enduring legacy as it is about discovering one of Europe's most distinctive new retreats.
Movies Under the Stars returns to Hotel Bel-Air, inviting guests to experience classic cinema beneath the California evening sky as part of the hotel's 2026 summer programme.
A Summer Season at Hotel Bel-Air
One of Los Angeles' most celebrated hideaways welcomes summer with a thoughtfully curated programme of dining, art, wellness and open-air cinema.
From garden afternoon teas and contemporary sculpture exhibitions to Movies Under the Stars beneath the California sky, Hotel Bel-Air offers a season that celebrates the enduring art of hospitality.