Welcome!
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the first issue of “Canvas by Constance”, a monthly curation of content that reflects what I believe to be the most interesting publications and topics of the month.
Your monthly subscription will be donated entirely to the Red Cross. Thank you all very much for your donation and support for the fundamental relief services that the organisation provides globally.
My main motivation for starting this newsletter is to share content and experiences with my friends and family, in the hope that you will find them as enjoyable as I have. Through this small project, my aim is to explore the fascinating connections that shape our world order and introduce topics that, while perhaps less known, have the potential to enrich our thoughts, writing and conversations.
In this edition, we delve into the evolving landscape of Middle Eastern security, the sophisticated realm of Chinese cyber espionage, and a comprehensive guide to a pivotal Election year in 2024. On culture, we touch upon our appreciation of art and storytelling, the viniculture of Burgundy, and the subtle power of small-talk topics.
Lastly, we present thought-provoking topics, including how Johnny Depp symbolises Saudi Arabias’ diversification efforts, the life of a controversial whistle-blower Barrett Brown, and the critical importance of mining in the green energy transition. In addition, you’ll find some outstanding op-eds on the global decline in birth-rates and on why the cultivated meat industry failed.
I warmly invite your contributions and suggestions. Whether it is an article, film, book, or interview that captured your imagination, please feel free to share it with me to be included in the next edition.
Happy reading!
Constance
P.S. If you’re in a rush, here is my MUST-READ list:
Foreign Policy: Elections to Watch in 2024
Chatham House: As Trump threatens NATO, is it time for Europe to get its act together?
Le Monde: Paris-based Chinese film festival shows banned films
Vanity Fair: Inside Johnny Depp’s Epic Bromance With Saudi Crown Prince MBS
New York Magazine, Intelligencer: The Ballad of Barrett Brown, He was a “preppy anarchist” who went to jail for his fight against the surveillance state. Was it all for nothing?
The New York Times: The Revolution That Died on Its Way to Dinner
Foreign Affairs: The Two-State Mirage
CONNIE! Obsessed with this!