François Arnaud photographed by Samuel Fournier at Studio Kiff in Montreal.

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There is a particular kind of quiet that arrives with winter—not the silence of absence but the hush that invites clarity. As the world slows under the weight of snow, we are granted rare moments to listen closely, carefully.

In a time defined by noise—real and digital—coherent stories have become a luxury. The kind of stories that are crafted, not churned. That illuminate rather than distract. That ask something of us, not just our attention but also our curiosity. At NUVO, this is the type of narrative we aim to preserve, offering a space for storytelling that lingers. This winter edition, Issue 107, is a testament to that intention. Within these pages, you encounter creators who resist the rush; designers who measure time in generations, not seasons; chefs who turn ingredients into narratives; artisans whose work is both mirror and magnifying glass.

Our cover talent, François Arnaud, is the perfect blend of brooding period drama heartthrob and guy you want to grab a coffee with. Born and raised in Montreal, he brings that effortlessly bilingual, art-school edge: intense eyes, thoughtful roles, and a voice that could narrate your dreams.

NUVO editor Claudia Cusano at Rainbow Glacier, guest of Fairmont Chateau Whistler and their Make Special Happen adventures. Photo by Viranlly.

In the world of big wave surfing, Nic von Rupp is a legend—not just for the waves he rides but also for how he rides them. In “Zadie Xa and the Ocean of Stories”, we showcase the Korean Canadian artist, now based in London, whose multidisciplinary practice weaves painting, textile work, performance, sound, video, and sculpture. For “Winter in the West”, we highlight the carnival-like atmosphere of skijor, the high-speed, horse-powered ski races that take place in Alberta, and where participants and spectators are outfitted in western-inspired dress. There’s plenty more to take in: Canadian bootmaker Viberg’s ascent from Victoria to NYC; a first look at Aman Nai Lert in Thailand; a conversation with Montreal chef Harrison Shewchuk about his latest restaurant, Limbo; and The I.C.E. St. Moritz, the glamorous car show that takes place on the frozen Swiss lake.

Winter asks us to slow down. To observe. To read more carefully and feel more deeply. It is, in many ways, the ideal season for a magazine like NUVO.

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