February is a threshold. The days begin earlier, the light softens, and the first blush of spring brings with it an unmistakable sense of renewal. On the West Coast, that shift feels intimate rather than dramatic — a quiet reminder that evolution often begins in subtle ways. As we move further into 2026, that spirit of transition defines this issue of Folio.YVR.

Our cover artist, Armin Abedi, embodies that very idea of reinvention. Iranian-born and now based in Vancouver, Abedi is represented by Gallery Merrick in Victoria and brings a psychologically charged presence to our national arts landscape. Born in 1991, he earned his BFA from the University of Science and Culture in Tehran in 2015, and has exhibited across Iran, Turkey, and Lebanon. His figurative practice examines the human body through psychoanalysis, identity, and cultural taboos, challenging conventional representation through distortion and transformation. As he builds a new life and artistic chapter in Canada, his works — which also grace our category spreads — introduce courage, vulnerability, and layered introspection to these pages.

Continuing our celebration of artistic depth, our lead feature spotlights Angela Grossman, whose expressive works invite us into layered interiors of memory, emotion, and feminine identity. Her presence anchors this issue with strength and nuance, reinforcing the vital role that artists play in shaping cultural dialogue on the West Coast.

Elsewhere, we offer a precursor glimpse into the world of Dior through Kalu Interiors principal Aleem Kassam’s visit to La Galerie Dior — a refined preview ahead of the highly anticipated Dior boutique opening at Oakridge Park. It is a moment that speaks to Vancouver’s growing position within the global luxury conversation.

Heritage and modernity intersect throughout these pages. We step inside Spa Soleá at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, where restoration meets contemporary wellness. In Victoria, the Fairmont Empress relaunches its Gold Lounge and reintroduces the Bengal Room, reaffirming its status as both icon and innovator. Afternoon Tea continues its storied ritual, honouring tradition while welcoming a new generation.

We revisit our long-standing admiration for the Rolls-Royce Spectre, reflect on OMEGA’s Olympic Seamaster, and explore Florentine shoemaking mastery through Mario Bemer’s distinguished partnership with The Sartorial Shop. Music arrives in full bloom with Georgy Manterola and the Firenze Fazioli.

In the real estate pages, Clarence Debelle curates an intimate look at one of the city’s most extraordinary ultra-luxury properties, offering insight into architecture, craftsmanship, and elevated living at the highest level. Within CELEBRATE, Paradise Events Inc. and lead planner Liting Chan present a beautifully produced wedding story that captures the elegance, cultural nuance, and refined execution defining contemporary bridal celebrations on the West Coast.

As we enter our seventh year of publishing, thank you for continuing to champion the unique West Coast lifestyle with us — and for allowing Folio.YVR to share it with the world.