Open Doors

Amira Nahar

cargocollective.com/amiranahar

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1.Tom Markey 8.That Old Chestnut 11.Roots and Fruits Cafe 13.Scott Nash 19.Rosie Pothecary 23.Inside Leeds 29.Mali Campbell 39.Belgrave Music Hall 43.Aleksandra Soj 49.Antiform 53.Larissa Drozd 64.Lauren Rachael Walker 68.Pyramid of Arts 74.Ikestra 76.Dealthy clothing 84.Darwin Magazine 86.Carnabells 88.Jordan Carroll

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Editor’s Letter Open Doors

is a new and exciting magazine aiming to give arising creatives a chance to get their work out into the public eye. With cities packed full of creative individuals, Open Doors is dedicated to promoting the young evolving talent. . The path towards working in the creative industy can sometimes seem to be a long struggle and we hope to make this journey a little easier by helping to promote and allow people to gain recognition for their work.. With stunning photography and inspiring interviews this magazine gives an exciting read broadcasting the explosion of talent in 2014.

The Story

The concept of Open Doors first came to me when I was designing a magazine for a live brief in my second year at Leeds College of Art. Whilst looking for interesting content I found it hard getting the attention of well established brands. This is when it struck me that I was currently studying in Leeds, a place that was home to many young creatives that were eager to get their work out there into the public eye.

This was the start of my journey. I decided I wanted to build a platform where creative students, independant retailors, up and coming musicials and anyone wanting to get into the creative indsutry could come and have their work publushed in a magzine, building up publicity for themselves and most importantly their work. w Issue One will look at creative indivuduals and the emerging cultures in Leeds and tell us why it is becoming one of the most exciting cities to live in.

I hope you all enjoy the first ever issue of Open Doors and hope for more to come in the future!

Frances Phillis

TOM MARKEY Tom Markey is a photographer that takes on all aspetcs of photography.

Landscapes and portraits to abstract and surreal imagery, this allows his work to capture the eye of many photograpahy fans. thomasmarkey.1992@gmail.com www.flickr.com/people/tommmarkeyphotography spokenslang.4ormat.com

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From Triple Chocolate Cake with Praline Truffles to Raspberry Dream Cake, That Old Chestnut certainly is the best advertisment

bakery to satisfy anyones sweet tooth. Set up in 2009, Chris and Elly have really made their bakery a success by having their cakes, flapjacks, loafs and other sweet pieces stocked in many cafes around Leeds including Café 164, Global tribe café and Laynes Espresso. I shall just add that everything made is vegan and organic but that sure doesn’t take anything away from the irresistible cakes and baked goods!

So looking at how That Old Chestnut started out I learnt that Chris and Elly went to university here in Leeds and in their final year is where it all started where they decided they wanted to run a vegan bakery.

We started back in 2009 while both in our final year of University, after Chris had been to the Glastonbury Festival. He’s not quite sure what happened there, maybe it was something spiritual, but when he came back he knew he had to set up something vegan.

Chris and Elly began by setting up and holding a stall once a month at the Kirkgate Farmers Market in Leeds. With this being such a success they have now moved onto supplying a number of cafes & deli’s in Leeds. They have also branched out to York, Harrogate and the Colne areas. Their aim being to use as much local produce as they can.

Something I believe makes their food even more delicious is knowing where everything comes from.

The food culture in Leeds is huge and with the culture being a hub for independent cafes, designers and studios, it is no surprise that this was the destination for That Old Chestnut to launch. The pair felt that with the opening of their first bakery, it had to be somewhere they felt comfortable and with Leeds already feeling like home, it was the perfect place. launch the bakery. Talking to Chris and Elly I wanted to know how they come up with their name.

The name came about while at university, where we would have numerous conversations about food and the latest thing we had found out about various industries always coming back to us adopting a vegan lifestyle, people would join the conversation and when they realized we were talking about being vegan again the saying ‘that old chestnut’ would always get mentioned so it began to stick!

As well as supplying to local independent cafes, delis and shops, That Old Chestnut still holds their stall at Kirkstall deli market including hosting their own events and collaborating with other businesses like The Captain’s Table supper club which was hosted in March at the Outlaws Yacht Club.

Vegan food is now becoming highly accessible to people wanting to try a different lifestyle in the way they eat or just to try a different alternative to their usual bakery goodies.

With both being vegan and with a lack of good quality vegan treats on the market, we had to start making our own.

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As well as making vegan goods, Chris and Elly are working towards producing gluten free cakes, something I know I will be keeping an eye open for! But until then their gluten free fruit and nut bars and praline truffles will fill the gap in the market. The truffles quoted by Chris are little mouthfuls of heaven, something I can completely agree on.

But with so many cakes, loafs and savories it must be hard just selecting one to indulge on, but the big question is to the owners of this fab bakery is - what is your favorite sweet that you serve?

Chris being a huge chocaholic replied; It would have to be something chocolaty like the Chocolate Orange Cake or Columbian Coffee Tiffin, they definitely hit the spot!

So any exciting coming for you guys we should all be looking out for?

We have lots of exciting things coming up this year, there’s quite a few fully vegan festivals going on so we will be setting up shop at those, lots more new cake flavors in the pipe line, and generally just keeping all of our cake lovers happy.

So if your a cake lover looking for great tasting vegan treats head to one of the many cafes that stock That Old Chestnut goods or you can even visit their website and get their scrumptious goods delivered straight to your door. thatoldchestnutishere.com

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Roots and Fruits If you want a vegetarian café where you are served freshly made food such as home made bread, cakes and soup, Roots and Fruits is the place to go! It being one of the longest established cafes in Leeds situated in Leeds Grand Arcade. With it provides a delicious menu, it offers something for everyone - even for the non vegetarians it has been a favorite for Leeds food lovers since 1989.

Roots and Fruits café has been opened for around 20 years but came under new management in November 2013. I only came across it a few weeks ago - this is something I love about Leeds that you are always finding cafes and shops you didn’t know existed! Walking in I was pleasantly greeted by the owners Kay and Richard and given a taste of their lovely hot chocolate. The café instantly feels welcoming and the refurbishment in November has certainly brought in the buzz of the Leeds city vibe. It is no tired looking cafe with its bright walls and a mosaic till area - it certainly has the look to attract diverse food lovers!

One of the most important things that comes down to the cafe’s high reputation is of course the food. It is not at all bland like some vegetarian food can be perceived as 11.

and even people who are not vegetarian enjoy eating out here. After 15 years when the café came under new management from Kay and Richard they went forward with the decision to change the menu, giving the café the boost it needed to sustain its reputation and continue its high amount of custom from its food fans.

The menu’s delicious specials are changed every couple of days and even includes different varieties of burgers, a dish I can give thumbs up for! Warm and hearty favorites such as their lasagna or soup will leave you filled up and satisfied.

The kitchen team ensures that the food they serve is top quality, full of flavor and also includes servings of vegan cake for people with a sweet tooth. If you are looking for a new place to try I would highly recommend Roots and Fruits. It has the vibe and heart of Leeds with its warm welcoming of anybody and everybody. With the cafe recently gaining new chiefs and looking to extend its opening hours, I will not be surprised that the café will continue to gain popularity keeping its place high in the café culture of Leeds. With the plans of holding art nights and bringing in live music, the café is one to ke=ep an eye on.

Scott Nash

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Fashion designer Scot Nash talks to Open Doors about his hard work, determination and why he believes he will make it in the fashion industry.

A big issue in the fashion world is the way women are perceived and expected to look and dress. There has been alot of critisism of the size 0 models used on the catwalks and in fashion magazines. Do you think fasion has played a major role in this?

His hometown being Shrewsbury and choosing Leeds to study fashion, Scot has certainy brought a new level of fashion design to the city.

Scot oozes confidence not just in his work but in himself.

Like alot of students, he enjoys his friday nights out and is a very apporchable character reasuring us that not all guys in fashion are bitchy. It is evident thoughout this interview the amount of dedication Scots shows towards his work.

Not at all, in my opinion that is the media, its the magazines that strip people apart and say how we’re meant to look and suppose to act, fashion is about the clothes and about how it makes you feel. Also fashion is like a separate world to main society in my opinion.

When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in fashion?

Imperfection, it’s the little imperfections in people that make them different and that’s what I find beautiful in people.

My second year at college, I was studying English, psychology and sociology and I just thought to myself one day what am I doing, all I did was doodle in my lessons and plan what I wanted to wear that night, I soon realized I needed to take a new path.

If you were given one day to work with any chosen designer who would this be?

What do you consider to be your greatest motivation to pursue a job in the fashion industy?

I would say the desire to not end up in a boring 9-5, I want to wake up each day knowing what I do could make an impact on someone, even if it is in a little way such as someone wearing something I had input on or merely being inspired by my own work

Your favorite alcoholic drink?

Disaronno..Vodka…no Disaronno.

What is your definition of beauty?

Vivienne Westwood, she is a designer I’ve always been intrigued by.

She always creates something that doesn’t follow mainstream trends and always maintains a sense of personal style in her work.

With graduating in June what do you see yourself doing and where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time? Do you think your going to be successful in the fashion industry?

This may be a tough decision but if you can narrow it down to one, what one designer has had the most influence on your work?

Basically carry on what I do now, design and hope someone wants to pay me for it. I don’t really like to plan that far ahead, I tend to take the days as they come. I always have a plan in place but it never goes that way which is exciting all I know is I plan to be happy and working my arse off as a designer.

Gareth Pugh for sure, his use of shape and monochrome colours was one of the first things I ever looked at for inspiration.

Oh yes, I work hard and always put 100% in, it’s the one thing in my life I’ve been good at.

FASHION what is fashion to you?

Sustainable fashion - Another popular subject in the fashion culture. what is your view on it? Would sustainable fashion be something you would like to dive into at some point?

Fashion is what ever you want it to be. I am not a big follower of trends I much prefer styles that are always around so I suppose fashion to me is self-expression.

Fashion has now progressed and expanded into many platforms, do you class fashion as art?

Of course its wearable art, if someone can hang a light bulb in the middle of a white room and call it “art” then for sure fashion is art.

Some people may think that fashion has become repetitive and boring. You can often see the same trend appearing in Primark that is being sold in topshop. What do you think about this?

We live in a time now where nothing is really new. I wouldn’t say its repetitive and boring, yes we will get the mundane ‘florals’ in spring that’s the kind of repetitive thing in fashion but then we get something new on the scene and its exciting, but I like consistency, we already have a lot in society that just gets replaced and forgotten so why not relive great styles and revamped looks, they were amazing the first time round why not relive it again.

I think its great but its something I personally don’t have much of an opinion on, I’m far to inspired by fabrics that are often very “anti sustainable” so its best for me to stay away from that area.

Money or Love?

Love. Life isn’t anything without someone to share it with, the love of family, friends or a significant other will always be there, money is just paper.

What do you consider to be your biggest weakness and strength?

I am far too critical of myself, I will finish something and always see how I could do it better. I suppose my strength is my determination. I always have this stigma around me that because I have one hand people don’t think I can do a lot of things and often look surprised when they see me work.

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What us your favorite day of the week?

Monday, the start of the week always feels optimistic.

How do you feel about fashion internships? Do you think students should be paid for their hard work and long hours?

I think you should be happy for the opportunity for a foot in the door, yeah it’s a pain to not get paid I’ve been there but what I learnt was priceless. We’re all to focused on money, we need to just enjoy the experience.

What is your opinion on wearing real fur. Are you for or against this?

I have no problems with it, I see why people don’t and respect their views but me personally I do enjoy a nice fur coat.

Who has it better Slug or Snail?

Snail, you get a house on your back BONUS, Do you consider yourself a romantic man?

I suppose I am, I think if you love someone you should tell them everyday and never take for granted that you’re lucky enough to have experienced love.

Beauty comes in all shapes and forms, what is your definition of beauty?

Imperfection, it’s the little imperfections in people that make them different and that’s what I find beautiful in people.

With interviewing a fashion designer I felt it relavant to ask such a question - If you could be any item of clothing what would you be?

I’d be a lather biker jacket, always looks good and never out of style.

After interviewing Scot Nash I can certainly see why he will succeed in the fashion indsutry. With it being one of the hardest indurstries to get into Scot has the determination to see it through and with his inovative designs I’m sure the fashion world will welcome him in with open arms!

Scottwilliamnash@hotmail.com

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You learn to get a thick skin and roll with the punches.

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ROSIE POTHECARY

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Rosie Pothecary Rosiepoth@hotmail.co.uk rosiepothecary.wordpress.com

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Inside Leeds Over the last couple of years Leeds has become one of the most exciting cities to be living in. From the growth of independant shops, creative studios, emerging bands and fashion designers not only is Leeds developing within the city center but all around leeds we are now seeing new growth, places such as HydePark and Headingly are gaining even more popularity. Leeds culture is embracing everything that makes Leeds great and with all the exicitng things happening, Leeds is sure to become the place to live. Whoever you are, student or professional Leeds has everything to offer.

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Leeds city museum offers visitors a experience of discovery.

You can explore the four floors of interactive and exciting galleries.

Leeds city market has been at the heart of leeds since 1857.

Offering fresh food and drink to fashion and jewellery, flowers, hardware and haberdashery. Leeds Market is definitely a place that makes up the history to Leeds cilty culture.

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It’s just such a buzzing city, the music scene is incredible too, tonnes and tonnes of quality acts - Carnabells Leeds is big enough to always have something new and interesting going on, yet small enough to bump into familiar people to enjoy it with. We live in a friendly city on and offline so it’s easy to find out about gigs, exhibitions, festivals, theatre, plus new places to eat, drink, dance and chill. Boredom lives elsewhere! - Wendy Denman Trrinity Leeds

Leeds fashion culture is an eclectic mix of style. Vibrant vintage trends with individuality and a modern twist. People wear what they want which is what I like to see - Zara Mia The graffiti culture in Leeds good, there’s a lot of stuff going on if you know where to look or are in with the right people. - Geoff Wharton Graffiti Artist

We love that Leeds has such great places to go and see amazing bands, watch wonderful films and eat great food. We really feel that Leeds is starting to blossom and that it isn’t all focused on the city centre. Hyde Park, Meanwood, Chapel Allerton, all these areas have great places to visit be it the cinemas, shops, restaurants or galleries. - Colours May Vary I think what I love most about the culture in Leeds is how fresh and vibrant everything seems to be. Since I came here in 2008, I’ve seen so many amazing galleries, bars and shops spring up. New independent venues like The Tetley, Village Book Store and Belgrave Music Hall these have only been here for a year or so, and have already established themselves as brilliant places for art and culture in the city. And it’s not just about new places popping up, but existing ones trying new and innovative things too. Here at the Hyde Park Picture House, despite the fact it’s our 100th birthday in November, we’re always trying new ways to diversify our programme with less conventional activities, such as hosting more artist moving image works, and holding live music events. - Ollie Jenkins Hyde Park Picture House

Leeds is a vibrant city that is full of life. With approximately 250 thousand students it gives creative art based students countless opportunities to showcase there work as well as collaborating with other highly talented individuals - Tom Markey Photographer I love Leeds as a city. I have had a few nights out there, which have always been good. Also I love the Corn Exchange The building itself is awesome. The Village book store is there top guys and a brilliant store. - Darwin Magazine

Leeds is a vibrant and creative city where anything goes. The nightlife especially is fun.

It has a variety of bars, resturants and clubs where you can go have a good time no matter what time of day - Clare Goldsmith editor of Volume Magazine Leeds is a beautiful city, with an abundance of culture, art and music. It’s inspiration and Inovative, I can’t think of a better place to be! - J’nae Saunders Graphic Designer.

Nightlife in Leeds is just great! There are many bars, restaurants, nightclubs and live music venues choose from. Having a night out in Leeds is totally affordable, too. As the Leeds city centre is very compact, going out is not a hassle for city dwellers. People can literally walk out their flats and there are tens of venues to pop in for a drink or two. - Third Eye Promotions

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The Cockpit is an independently run live music venue centered in the heart of Leeds. The venue is managed by local based promoters Futuresound Music. You can find the venue situated underneath a series of three railways which gives the the venue its unique curved ceilings.

The Wardrobe first opened its doors in 1999. The venue has kept its reputation up for serving great food, drinks and music.

The Stone Roses Bar is an independent music bar with guitar fuelled Indie music . The Bar is a lively venue for all indie music lovers and is open until the early hours every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

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The Leeds Corn Exchange stands as one of Britain’s most finest Victorian buildings. Leeds Corn Exchange is one of the most stunning cultural icon in Leeds. .It is home to the very best in creative and independent retailors.

Mali Hayes Hailing from Manchester, Mali Hayes has emerged onto the music scene with a beautiful enchanting voice that is sure to leave a lasting impression on her much loved soul music.

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With the music scene being so huge in Leeds there is no suprise that there are a number of musicians making a stand in the limelight. From drum ‘n’ bass to soul, Leeds is the place that offers a variety of music and many nights where these artists can do what they love and perform and make music.

Recently I was in introduced to Mali Campbell a girl from Manchester studying at Leeds College of Music. The first time I heard Mali sing I was mesmerized by her enchanting voice. Now she is continuing to get her voice out there recently performing at the Rock Bar and New Conservatory. I managed to sneak in a quick interview with Mali between rehearsals, hopefully giving us a small insight into what pushes her in life to perform and make music.

When and why did you start playing musically?

Probably when I was about 8, just like small choirs and stuff. Local choirs just the usual kids stuff. My family on both sides are musical this was one thing that pushed me towards the direction of to music. But I also wanted to do it for myself as well.

What age did you become aware that you were musically talented?

My mum said I wrote my first song when I was 4. It was a tiny small 10 second thing. The melody wasn’t a normal song.

What was the first piece of music that inspired you to go towards a career in music?

I was brought up around different styles of music. It’s really hard, as I love all kinds of music. I was brought up on Gill Scot, her whole album made me think I want to write like this.

Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years time? What are your long-term career goals in the music industry?

In 5 years time probably gigging more places than just Leeds and my hometown of Manchester. I would like to go to London where the music scene is big. I would also like an album by then.

Who is your main music inspiration of today?

That’s a hard question… umm I would say probably Linne La Haves.

If you had to listen to one artist for the rest of your live who would it be? >

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Another hard question oh gosh…One artist it would be Erykah Badu.

What are you currently doing in your life now?

At the moment I am studying popular music at Leeds College of Music, lots to do with the theory based side of music and song writing. It includes technical stuff like scales, which is really boring! In my spare time I write a lot of music, go to lots of different music gigs, hearing new artists influences my own music.

opportunity like that!

What inspired you to write Jump?

My momma, Yvonne Ellis and Myke Wilson wrote this backing track when I was around 10 years old. I remember hearing it for the first time and loving it so I thought I’d write over it!

From your experience with music so far, what have you found to be most challenging? And how are you dealing with it?

The most challenging thing is trying to find If you had to describe your your individuality. Finding yourself is a music how would you do this? journey that will last your whole life and for Genre would be acoustic/soul me, since being in Leeds for the past year and a half, I’ve only just begun to find myDo you have any new releases? self. It’s a great feeling when you feel comI will be recording a E.P this summer and fortable enough to do what you do and hoping for end of year release. share that with everyone.

What personally drives you as an artist?

Having inspirations from other artists is the main thing, when I go to a live gig and when I see someone doing well it inspires me to go home and write a song and for it to be amazing. Life experiences are what drive me.

If you could be anyone for the day who would it be and what would you do?

I would probably be Beyoncé as she is amazing. What would I do…. I’d do one of her world tour shows and perform in front of thousands of people and have people sing my songs.

Favorite thing to pass boredom apart from music?

My favourite thing to do, to pass time as you say is really just spending time with my friends. There’s nothing better than having a night in with lots of food, some good music and just talking nonsense with your favourite people To have a listen and keep up to date with Mali’s music visit-

www.facebook.com/MaliHayesMusic With your recent perfomances how would you describe the music scene Photography - Walter Briski Jr. in Leeds? And how do you deal with comesaturdaymorning.tumblr.com nerves on stage?

I would like to thank: Corinne Drewery, Connell, Swing Out Sister, Yvonne The music scene in Leeds is great, but also Andy Ellis, Jordan Miller, Pookie Adams and Autumn Miller. quite competitive in the sense that there are so many students doing regular slots in ■ many bars/restaurants and open mic nights.

Everyone is doing the same and trying to share their music. There isn’t a way to deal with nerves - they’l always be there. The best thing to do for me personally, is to think about how happy I know I’l be once I’ve performed. The buzz from being on stage is a feeling I can barely describe., it’s amazing and stays with you for weeks which is so inspiring.

You can eat only one sort of fast food what would it be?

Nandos. I love it.

How do you prepare to write your music? How do you look for inspiration, do Do you believe that someone is born you find it easier to work off an emotion with talent or can someone develop like being upset or in love? it talent through hard work?

I don’t prepare to write my music. its a I think you can develop and learn it. I still natural process. Sometimes I may need to practice a lot and well known artists always write for someone, like for example if a practice, some of the teaching we get producer gives me something to write over I helps us be better, teaches us better ways will make that my priority but I can’t rush around singing. anything, it just won’t feel right. my songs are always taken from real life situations to do How would your best friend describe with myself, or others around me. I’m quite a you? shy person and a perfectionist so I won’t My friends would describe me as the share my music until I’m fully happy with it sensible one, haha! Very laid back, But also myself. a bit crazy when I wanna be!

What in life makes you happy?

Leeds is well-known for its music scene What makes me happy? Erm, food hahaha! why did you decide to come study at being around friends and family, meeting Leeds college of music? new people, discovering new music, fashion I’l be honest, I wasn’t going to come to and art. I just love to be surrounded by uni. I wasn’t sure what i wanted to do, but positivity and things that I know make me I applied through clearing and got in so I happy. couldn’t pass up a good 33.

With being a songwritter who would you love to colloborate with and write music for?

I like to collaborate with other singers when writing. Hearing other ways of singing a certain line or changing the way you say or sing a word is a great way to expand your knowledge on experimenting with writing.

Belgrave Belgrave Music hall

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Amid the hustle and bustle of Leeds nightlife, Belgrave Music Hall is the place that is creating the biggest buzz. Leeds is definitely not short of music venues but Belgrave offers something different and exciting situated in one of Leeds most popular bar districts with Sandinista and Mojo as close neighbours.

Unlike other music venues in Leeds, Belgrave has a definite American and festival feel with not just music and drink to offer but includes street food outlets such as Dough Boys Pizza. Belgrave Music Hall offers music, art, food, drink and film creating the perfect hangout. The layout offers reclaimed bench seating with vintage furniture, sofas and armchairs. Posters line the walls providing a welcoming venue whether you have come to chill with a beer and pizza slice or for a Friday night out. It brings a festival into one venue certainly reflecting the buzz and atmosphere of the popular Beacons festival.

The music hall has a first floor with a capacity of 250 providing the perfect gig venue and we cannot forget to mention the roof terrace; the garden sheds and various seating offer a spectacular view over Leeds - something that has certainly been a great hit for Belgrave fans! With the venue’s popularity continuing to grow, I popped down for a chat with Simon Stevens and Ben Davey.

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How did Belgrave Music Hall start out?

S.S Belgrave was started by me and Ash Kollakowski. We had been putting on gigs at different venues and had about 20/30 years between us which sounds terrifying! We knew each other from going after each other’s bands for years! Finally got to point where we wanted more control over it. The staff, the drinks, the food and how the gigs happened.

We talked about it a couple of time and the building became available. And this how it all came about really.

What makes Belgrave Music Hall different to the other music venues in Leeds?

B.D The bands they book, more usual there abit more in the middle, there not small or not huge there just about to get big. It’s good getting to know of bands you may not have heard off.

The concept of the Belgrave almost has this American vibe with the way it serves food but also is a bar and music venue.

S.S It is less common in UK but is slowly now becoming popular. The idea I think people are slowly but surely coming round to. You can’t just focus on one thing, like a music venue putting on gigs is great but these are becoming more open because there is not a lot of money to be made just from that. You need to work out other ways to get people to part with their money, seeing bands, getting the right beers and foods and getting

people to spend their money. That is how we learn to survive. I went to Newyork to a conference music thing, it struck me this bar was a restaurant and had bands playing, it was just another part of the venue.

Have you got any exciting events coming up for us to keep a look out for?

S.S Yeah we’ve got Street Feast coming up.

B.D It is April 12th, it’s our attempt to get lots of traders together over the three floors. It’s a chance for people to sample food that you never get to try or are scared of. We get different traders and street food lovers and showcase this every month. So it’s the second Saturday of every month and the line up changes every month but always has the same core. Almost like a big street food festival cramped into Belgrave. We have live music, cinema, art space, kids corner. The art market, has 15 independent artists, Majority are Leeds based.

S.S It is the best of northern part really. But we are branching out bringing in more people.

So it is almost like a mini Beacons festival?

S.S Between the art and the food and the music I like to think like a little festival probably a very accurate description to be honest!

The punk band fucked up are playing later on in the summer A band is actually called fucked up?

S.S Aha yes they’re a pretty big punk band, think its in June or July!

Belgrave is quite a diverse place, it isn’t just another bar to get really drunk and have cheap drinks.

S.S That’s what we didn’t want it to be, you can go places and get cheap shots but we offer things during the day and we rent out the space upstairs.

B.D Talking of art we are gonna do events where we get pizza boxes and you draw on them then we will have a massive wall full of pizza box art!

Who came up with the name Belgrave?

S.S The street is called Begrave street so we took it from there, next door is Belgrave Halls.

Did you always aim to get this particular place?

S.S The upstairs and downstairs place was in the place of the buzz, and there lots of independent places everyone here is on the same wavelength.

Belgrave has certainly been a success, any advise for any budding creative out there who are looking to start up their own business or get into the creative industry?

S.S Get your concept right, make sure there’s a gap in the market and no one else is doing it then there shouldn’t be a lot in the way stopping it! It’s a good time to be independant in Leeds. Now Leeds has Munro house, The Tetley. Leeds is a creactive hube for designers, galleries etc.

B.D Indpendant and friendly it feels like it is an exciting time for Leeds, the people of Leeds are tuning into it. They want to get invovled in the support of independent studios etc.

To keep up to date with what is happening at Belgrave music hall visit their website www.belgravemusichall.com

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Usually my pieces are created to express relatively elaborate contexts, and the model is then chosen to reflect the methodology. This project was the complete opposite. My model was my inspiration. I found his looks quite captivating and felt the need to allow others to see him through my eyes. All creations were made for that purpose. In my head I instantly envisioned him in a nude dress, with his hair scraped back and his black boots on, and I proceeded to make exactly that happen. I was strongly against putting any makeup on him: I wanted him simply wearing the dress, as opposed to being ‘dressed up’ as a woman. Once the image of him in a dress was generated in my head, it actually never occured to me that it was in any way unconventional. I don’t see him ‘modelling’ my dresses- I see the dresses adorning HIM. - Aleksandra Soj

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Antiform

A forward thinking fashion brand with sustainability at heart.

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Sustainable fashion has become increasingly more accepted into the world of fashion. With more people becoming aware off it and its values, it has become more widely accessible with it no longer classed as this dull drab eco fashion but instead sustainable fashion is now not only seen in independent shops but even on the catwalks!

Learning about sustainable fashion my respect for people who are involved in it heightens; the whole process and skill that goes into it, is truly admirable. Starting your own independent brand where sustainable fashion is at its heart is no walk in the park but designers such as Lizzie Harrison have proven that with hard work and innovative thinking it is possible. I was first introduced to Lizzie Harrison in second year at Leeds College of Art where we were given a live brief to create a business plan and create fashion garments that were sustainable - something at first I was not particular keen on doing! But through research I began to see the importance of creating more sustainable fashion and how in years to come it is something many manufacturers will have to consider. Antiform is not just a fashion brand, it represents a whole team of designers and researchers with all the same mission to produce sustainable fashion but still in a stylish way that people will want to buy. I had the chance to meet up with Cez Challinor and take a peek at their latest collection.

Just for our readers can you tell us abit more about Antiform?

It is a sustainable forward thinking fashion brand where we specialize in making our collection out of reclaimed waste materials. We try to source everything in from 20 miles of the studio when we can and we use manufactures in Yorkshire. So all of our garments are made here by yours truly and few other people! Basically we look at creating an option for consumers to have quality clothes that will last a very long time, that are made out of materials that are not just going to bobble off.

Creating shapes that are timeless and are not just fashion led.

Yes we are very up to date with the fashion industry but are not just about creating seasonal collections. So yeah that’s basically it! We try to use heritage crafts and also encourage people to create communities by doing sewing cafes and the clothes swap. In December I think we were up to 800 members.

What is your fashion background? Did you always see youself working with sustainable fashion?

Me personally I studied fashion design at Leeds University and in my placment year in the industry I started up a business with one of my friends that specialized in making bespoke pieces from waste materials. That was based in Manchester. I then came back to Leeds finished my degree and started working here shortly after.

Lizzie who started the brand 7 years ago went to Leeds College of Art and did Fashion Design. Now she is a pretty leading member in the sustainable movement! She does a lot of lecturing around the country too.

Eco fashion can have this conception of being bland and boring how important do you feel it is to make sustainable fashion while still keeping the importance of it being stylish?

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The main objective to make us different to everyone else was the clothes we produced we wanted to be different to other companies.. Lizzie’s style and mine are abit outrageous sometimes we can get abit carried away. We have to question will other people wear this or is it abit to out there!

We have to rain it in a little bit. Lizzie’s main aim was for people who wanted to wear sustainable fashion didn’t just have to wear brown and green….. Of course that’s absolutely fine if that’s something you want to wear. Just because you are conscious about fashion doesn’t mean boring clothes. Sustainability was the main core it wasn’t about a fashion brand , it was I’m gonna do sustainable fashion and Im gonna do it in this kind of way.

You have to make it that people want to wear our clothes and people to love them for all the time that they last. I think thats pretty important.

Do you think people are embracing eco fashion a lot more now? And do you think high street shops need to do more to work along the lines of producing sustainable fashion?

Materials we use we source responsibly, keeping work in our country. I mean, there is not anything wrong with outsourcing but I think there’s going to be a point where there no more land fill and the way clothing is created now we can’t even recycle it as the fiber content quality means you cannot wear it a second time.

Of course it would be brilliant to have it on the high street but we couldn’t offer sustainable fashion at the price of the high-street.

I don’t think personally there will be anything on the high-street very soon, a business model that is sustainable on the high street but to mass-produce something you will have to compromise on something somewhere. There will be a way though and we will see it more on the highstreet just maybe not yet.

Your recent collection what have we got to look forward too?

We try not to label our collections summer, winter etc. but they are influenced by the seasons. We don’t wanna create fashion for the sack of fashion. It has lots of bright colours, we like to keep continuity with our shapes, they have been well thought out to

fit a range of bodies sizes and shapes. We like to reinvent for next collections such as the box jumper is a well known garment for Antiform.

Everyone love it! The leggings are another Antiform staples which are bright and lots of colours. Got lots of bright dresses too. Check the website out!

Do you think people will still rather go buy from shops like Primark? Where you can buy a jumper or pair of jean for a fiver rather than head towards sustainable fashion and pay more for it?

I personally come from a home where it was more about quantity not quality withmoney concerned. We have evolved inthe past 20 to 30 years where instead of buying things we love and will look after it is more and more about how much more you can get. It all dependent on what the majority of people want. People will look at sustainable fashion but a lot of our age will go towards looking at the high street, keeping up with recent treads. It is more accessible. There is not a lot on the high street for sustainable fashion where else there area lot of massive retail shops in Leeds, independent shops don’t have an easy life. We try and keep things as affordable as we can and maybe people think we are expensive compared to high street stores but thereis so much more that go into our clothes.There will be a time that everyone will have to look at sustainable fashion. At the moment fashion students are being given modules on sustainable fashion and learning about the industry so we are being taught more about it and becoming aware of the effects.

Anything exciting happening with Antiform?

There is always something exciting happening with antifoam! We havestarted stocking internationally stocking in berlin and Holland, Germany. Looking at spreading further a field now, Berlin is a big market.

Do you have any advise for anyone wanting to make the big jump and look at starting their own independent business?

Gain experience!

Why just go ahead and set up your business when you go and make mistakes with money you don’t really have. Go do some work experiences, learn and see how you would do things differently.

If you really wanna do something though, don’t let anything stop you!

Antiform is a brand with an ethos that many designers should aspire too, keeping fashion sustainable but still delivering stylish fashionable garments Antiform is forward a forward thinking brand and will sure continue to expand and teach people a different way of scouring their fashion wardrobe. Looking to improve global issues such as material wastage Antiform shows strong support for our English heritage and continuing to source locally. www.antiformonline.co.uk

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Larissa Drozd

It is not often artwork grabs my

attention in the way Miss Drozd work does. To be honest is it not often I am faced with paintings of Gary Glitter and Jimmy Savile. But even with the paintings being this controversial subject I am intrigued to look closer and analysis why and how these paintings have formed.

Splashes of colour and attached pig ears make these expressions of artistic genius stand out causing such a reaction to sink low into the stomach. These are not just ordinary paintings but paintings that make you think, unearthing the different levels to which have evolved in the artists head finally producing these pieces of art. It is just not these paintings that make Larissa Drozd such an extraordinary artist but a rather large gold and a huge head piece constructed of pig ears riveted together.

Larissa starts the interview with a smile upon her face and she sits there perfectly at ease, looking at me like I am the one to be interviewed. Meeting Larissa has been an eye opener, not only is she this girl with great artistic talent but a girl with a voice we are sure to hear in the future. Red hair, purple lipstick and wearing her favorite Dr. Martins her personality draws anyone in, an individual that allows pure freedom in discussion. A quality that gave for an interesting interview but on occasion sometimes led the discussion quite off topic! Larissa’s work can seem quite bizarre to people that don’t know her but I believe these pieces act to the depth of knowing a person like her.

As well as the loving and loyal friend she is, she brings forward this amazing talent, something that no one can ignore.

Aiming to showcase this crazy girls work and truly open her up to the public, Open Doors decided to dive in and see what we could unearth hopefully telling a little bit more of this Bradford girls story.

So when did you interest in art begin?

Probably when my mum bought me a pair of scissors at the age of 2, I would cut everything possible up and stick it all together. I think I just had it in me as a kid, I remember in reception class, we were painting ourselves, the teacher was saying how lovely this boys was and I was very honest and vocal about it, I was so shy but I said ‘well actually I think its crap’, she just laughed silently and hugged me, but I think that’s when looking back I realized I not only liked art, but I had an interest in it, and was critical of works.

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What other hobbies do you During your life have you ever enjoy to do in your spare time seen one piece of art that has besides art? truly inspired you and just stuck in your head?

Music is my other main hobby, whether it’s going to live gigs, doing There are pieces that have stuck in a live gig, singing, and writing…. I my head, I think as a young teen, till actually love people watching, and now; Harvey’s ‘Myra’ had a huge watching TV I love observing, and impact on me, I wish I could have analyzing everything. seen that in its original time, I always wonder how I would feel about it If you could describe your work back then. Powerful. to someone that had never seen it how would you do this?

I would describe my work as brash and bold, and a little bit tacky sometimes.

Has there been a challenge in people accepting and understanding your work? Do you aim to cause such a reaction?

n e h w t i e I lik eone som shaking tries he art s up t ld, make wor citing! it ex

I don’t think it’s a challenge of acceptance, I think people often have a misconception of some of my work, and tend not to see past what it is as face value. For example the gold shit, but it will always be up to interpretation of the audience. I don’t create things with an intention of reaction, but I do like to create things sometimes, which create moral panic or a little bit of disturbance. We definitely seem to find it hard in my generation, having grown up being so desensitised, sometimes I think to What influences your cause a reaction or spark some artwork? feeling off is like gold dust.

Most definitely pop culture, and Do you find it hard to take how American everything has negative criticism? become. I’ve grown up in this false Your work can be seen as quite pretend manufactured world. I think controversial. that has an influence on my work. I also think the music I listen to inspires Negative criticism to me would be my artwork, aside from all the crap, if someone thought my work lacked the attitude of not giving a shit and authenticity, but if someone thought just going for it, I think that’s a huge my work was disgusting, or didn’t influence. want to deal with it, that’s not negative, to me that’s more of a As previously said another talent positive than good response, the of yours is singing, is this power to move someone to be something you want to progress disgusted ....that’s is amazing. with when you graduate from university?

The best advise you have been Yeah, I have so many things I want given? to do and things written I haven’t finished. Finding the time at the Never plan the future, have an moment is hard but once I have open mind and live for today. finished university I definitely want to do everything I possibly ever I have to bring up the gold poo! wanted to with music, lots of gigs What does the gold poo and make an EP. represent?

The gold shit was taken as an > image from a poem I had written about what I thought was luxury as a child, and what luxury is. The gold poo itself is luxury because it demonstrates childhood, a happy healthy childhood is luxurious, and you’ll never forget it.

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Who is your childhood star?

Michael Jackson, definitely.

What do you think is the best quality of being a northerner?

The banter and definitely the warmth. Nobody gets the sense of humor, I think Southerners are very serious but us northerners don’t care if we look stupid.

Your very family dedicated what does your family think about your art?

Christmas to try and convert her from her whistle tin one but no, so as you can see her vision of everything is set way back, especially art, so she just doesn’t get what I do, she thinks I’m pretty bonkers. I remember when I was dismantling doll pieces she just kind of stared at me as if I was a really strange creature! My brother and my mum are really proud of some of my works, but they definitely think I’m slightly weird.

should try reading a book.

Tell us something interesting we don’t know about you?

Money or Love?

I’ve never sat down and read a book, I really think I need to, and I My gran is this very love writing poetry which is strange, stereotypical religious Italian grandma, she is very set in her ways, but I feel like I have much more of we buy her an electric kettle every a connection with music, maybe I

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What do you hope to achieve in the next 5 years?

In the next 5 years, this is really tough. I would have hoped to be starting to go down this long winding tough road of the music industry, but to achieve a name for myself and to create a little storm in the fashion world.

Love definitely, money helps with everything but I wouldn’t want to be lonely, I hate loneliness.

What is your favorite curry?

I don’t have time for or can’t that he doesn’t give a fuck. appreciate, unless it’s going to really make me question things, and There is still a huge amount more to know about Larissa, this all Butter Chicken and Spinach. Divine! mess up my day.

What is your art world pet peeve? Summer, Spring, Winter or Autumn What do you think about these people who pay thousands of Summer nights and winter fashion pounds for art?

Finally the most important question left till last- Ozzy I quite enjoy that art can go for Osbourne what is it this rock star crazy amounts, it makes it untouchable.What I don’t appreci- you love so much? ate is when art is so conceptual it becomes inaccessible. It tends to His humour is brilliant, I actually become more of an issue and ques- recently went to see Sabbath in tions people when there’s a lack of December and his voice was just skill, which is involved, but then that amazing, I cant understand a word very piece could raise awareness he says when he speaks but he can of what art has become. I like art sing perfectly. I think what I love so that really provokes me, some work much is how mental he is and just

adds to the intriguing character that I am sure we will see rise up in fame either with her art or singing or both. Someone with a character this big is sure to make an impact on the creative industry, something I truly look forward to seeing.

Larissa Drozd the true rock star!

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Lauren Rachael Walker laurenrachaelwalker@yahoo.co.uk

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Pyramid of Arts 68.

Pyramid of Arts is a Leeds based charity that brings together creative communities by running weekly art groups.

It gives people with and without learning disabilities a chance to learn and enjoy freedom in creative activities from building sculptures and paintings to making music. Pyramid of Arts allows for people to come together to share their interest in art and also in return build friendships.

One of the wonderful things about Leeds is it offers a place for creativity for everyone, from creative courses to charities ran by fantastic groups of people including volunteers. Pyramid of Arts aim to help people with disabilities and give them the power to do something they want allowing them to truly express themselves. A usual Pyramid project evolves from the ideas brought up by the groups and not by following a particular structured creative plan.

It follows the ideas and the skills wanted to learn giving each group a choice and the freedom to do what they want. There is a true sense of family, everyone working together to creating unique and satisfying projects. Each person has their own level of artistic ability , with such a broad range of skills everyone can take part resulting in an end product belonging to the whole group. Pyramid of Arts started at Meanwood Park hospital but seeing the positive effect it had soon the art club members decided that they wanted the group to last longer and become something more established in the Leeds community. It has now been running over 20 years with weekly groups for different age members from 14 to 70 with different learning abilities too.

Many local artists help with the different creative classes pulling the whole community together. I got to speak with Liam Hirst who is an active member of Pyramid of Arts and has been for the last 6 years.

How long has Pyramid of Arts been running?

We have been running for years! For about 25 years I think. One of our groups is called The Elders and some people within The Elders have been involved for the actual 25 years.

For our reader can you explain what is Pyramid of Arts? What are the charity’s aims?

We do large-scale art projects and we are just in middle of rescaling the whole of Pyramid, as at the moment we are reliant on just funding. We are getting money coming in through events and being paid. The charity is for people with learning difficulties and other health needs. But anyone can get involved too.

Why did you personally want to other help people especially through using arts and drama?

Through personal experience, I find people with learning difficulties and that don’t always have the choice and power. People within the government decide that people with learning difficulties have to live in institutions. But within period no matter what you disability, you have the power you decide. There are artists and co workers here that offer a lot of support.

Do you have a lot of help from local artists?

Yes we have a lot of freelance artists. People have the choice in what they want to do. Someone can request an art activity and then we can go and help get the artist. We do scultptures we do installations ,we do singing, we do pretty much any type of art that you can think.

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Are there any developing plans happening with Pyramid of Arts? What do you hope to achieve with the charity’s work?

We hope to expand the model within Pyramid and suppose me myself I look at and want to inspire other young people with art with learning disabilities. I want I want to give them support. I have also just been involved in securing some funding for our youth group, which I have started within pyramid. I have come full circles here. I sort of want to be a role model to other people.

Do you think this is something Pyramid can expand on? Not just in its Leeds home but maybe branch out to other cities.

Yes I would be open to expanding Pyramid. I could see it for whatever reason there are people with disabilities all over the country. Something that is international that people see the brand and know up and down the country.

How often are the classes you hold?

We hold 2 hour sessions weekly during the term time and with the development we are looking at accessing more by getting more artists for just the 2 hours groups we hold.

We also have a unit within this complex that we use for our projects and then we have a few other little venues and community halls that we hire out too.

For anyone that wants to get involved with Pyramid of arts how should they do this?

Just search Pyramid of Art Leeds and you will find the website and it has all our contact details on. Get in touch.

What events do you guys have coming up?

We have got the Breeze arts festival that’s in July at the beginning of the summer holidays. And then there will also be breeze on tour that will be soon announced we are going to different parks within the city. Will be city based Breeze on tour. We have got a project called Ideal Leeds that we will be doing there. Also there is talk about maybe doing Light night.

Do you think charities like yourself should get more help and funding?

Yes….. but I understand the country isn’t in the best finial state..I think stuff is being instituted with people with learning with difficulties. Like centers getting shut down. Pyramid isn’t a institute. We as members pretty much make the decisions. That sometimes maybe can get turned around but there is always a good reason.

If you feel you would like to get involved with Pyramid of Arts visit their website where you can find updates on the different programmes available and contact details. www.pyramid-of-arts.org.uk

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Ikestra Ikestra - One of the most exciting sounds to come into the music culture in years. Musical experimentation and expression at its best.

The band Ikestra was originally formed in 2010 by guitarist Joe Harris. The bands music is inspired by so many individual influences, you can hear influences of funk, math’s rock, American/Caribbean, jazz, hiphop and so much more. Listing all these influences kind of makes you question what you will be hearing when you listen to Ikestra. It is hard to explain and put into words what I felt when I first listened to their recent release of their CD. It has a truly unique and infatuating sound. Bursts of jazz and soul leap into the music with other improvisation of sound. The moment you listen to their music it really captivates you, all I wanted to do was sit and listen. There is so much going on during the music all these different exciting sounds that there is no point trying to do other things, all your intention needs to be on their music which is not a bad thing as here you really get to capture the different levels of improvisation.

Ikestra has been playing for over 3 years now and the band like so many have been through some changes in the line up. Currently the band is made up of 7 members and currently based in Leeds. Playing at venues like Hifi club and LS6 CafÊ. Listening to Ikestra you can really imagine how much of an exciting musical performance they would be when seen playing live. You can appreciate the love and pure enjoyment that goes into producing music like this. Not many bands would be brave enough to improvise and alter their music live, this way each one of Ikestra’s shows are not the same. ikestra.bandcamp.com soundcloud.com/ikestra

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DEATHLY 76.

CLOTHING

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Searching through Deathly’s collection feels like an intrusion of privacy. Their clothes have an intensely personal touch as if you’re buying a piece of clothing that’s been made with great care and attention to detail. “Fashion makes people feel confident and individual.” Christie Powers and Joe Jinks, owners of Deathly clothing label speaks of how clothing should be fair to the customer; “We think that affordable and different clothing is so important, as more and more brands are becoming very expensive and make you feel like shit if you can’t afford them.”

Most of Deathly’s garments are unique hand-drawn designs screen printed onto shirts, jackets and hats with inspiration flowing from geometry, typography, the esoteric and history; “we’re simply creating designs that are based on subjects that inspire us.” They remind us that their vision of creating styles comes from what they would wear themselves; “that is one of the most important elements to bear in mind when designing clothes” which emits passion for their clothing line, and for them is about creating something real rather than manufacturing items for mainstream fashion.

Deathly began back in 2010 when Christie and Joe were both at college “when we reached University we decided it was time to continue with Deathly; University is great for networking and sharing ideas with other people who share similar tastes.”

Monochrome is a theme that runs throughout the clothing label with black sweaters, t-shirts and jackets with detailed white print designs emanating a simplistic look with a unique twist.

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A personal favorite is the Huxley jacket - a classic take on the varsity jacket, where you can choose to have your name printed on the back in true American style. Amongst their designs are gothic style jewelry pieces including chokers which are made with a range of pendants including a gold plated mushroom and a beautiful turquoise stone, and not forgetting the gleaming crystals in a selection of clear or agate hung from a simple black cord.

Christie and Joe speak of which part of Deathly is the most unique: “We find the process in which our designs are created to be unique, from the research behind them to the development of ideas. All designs are done in-house. We work closely with aspiring photographers, models and bloggers which help to spread the word about our fashion brand but also their incredible work giving them a chance to work with a real fashion brand.” Many young designers struggle starting their own clothing label in the fashion industry with the thousands of brands out there, but Deathly offer some invaluable advice “start simple and realistic. Keep drawing. Find a reliable printer. Make use of social networking. Know what’s going on in fashion and what people enjoy wearing. But most importantly – be individual, there are a lot of similar brands around.”

Christie and Joe are hoping Deathly will soon become a full time job as currently work normal jobs; “we currently send our clothing all around the world; our stuff is very popular in Australia, Singapore and the USA however, we would like to expand our products even more.” deathlyhigh.com Written by Paige Holden Model : Ellie Tan Photography: Trishna Goklani

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Darwin Magazine Darwin Magazine is an inspiring publication started by two guys whilst they were still studying at university in 2012. Their concept was quite simple – create a platform that showcased contemporary image. Now on issue 5, we highly recommend a look at this magazine packed full of simply stunning photography.

We were given the chance to speak to Ryan, editor of Darwin magazine. Here I learnt that the concept of the magazine interestingly came about when him and Harry Rose were in a pub and after many late nights in the library were spent working out the logistics that would go into developing a platform like the magazine. Ryan studied Documentary Photography at Newport University South Wales which he recently graduated from last summer. Now he runs Darwin magazine successfully with Harry Rose. With Ryan’s interest in magazine layouts and his studies into documentary photography, this gave him the perfect environment and flexibility to start something that both him and Harry truly wanted to pursue.

Now in todays world where technology plays such a massive part in peoples life’s how does Darwin magazine face the pressures with the print publication and how are the guys dealing with this.

Personally, I always will prefer something tangible to something on an Ipad for example. So our pages will always be in print. However, we do balance it out with online content via our website which we run lighter content on. Also we have a twitter @darwinmagazine.

I have always been a fan of having something solid in my hands, being able to have a real feel of a magazine drives the appreciation that we have of the work that has gone into producing such a publication. The print and quality of the whole magazine also allows for something you cannot access on an online platform. And with no advertisements in the magazine, full attention is paid towards the work of the photographer. Something you can really admire. Darwin is not about making money its about the exposure and love of photography and the contemporary image. Darwin magazine publishes all types of photography and is a platform where all levels of photographers can forward submissions for print in the magazine. With so much to choose from it must be hard choosing what goes to print in each issue.

Ryan what is your favorite type of photography? And if you could feature one photographer who would this be?

I am very open to looking at most photography. Everyone has their personal preference but if its shot well, and visually effective That’s good enough for me.

One photographer I have currently came across is - Alberto GarcÌa-Alix And also digital or film photography?

No preference again. I think a good image is a good image and both are advantageous in different scenarios..

The guys down at Darwin Magazine have just released volume 5 of their magazine and now working on volume 6. Their website is full of great interviews and soon their will be a video tab on their website.

Something to keep your eyes peeled for. Darwin knows what goes into making an effective publishcation something that is evident in their magazine. Running your own magazine coming straight from University isn’t easy so their advise for young creatives is: If you work hard and longer than the person next to you. You should get somewhere.

Darwin will continue to build up their readserhip through contuning issues involving high quality imagergy and where writers, photographers, publishers and everyone else involed can have a say in the magazine. So for any photogrpahers interested in forwarding some work for consideration email the guys at Darwin. darwinsubmissions@gmail.com darwin-magazine.com

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Carnabells The rock ‘n’ role 5 piece band with sounds of guitar thrashing and piano bashing that sure to get anybodies feet moving.

Carnabells are an energetic and exciting band, the first time I their music I fell in love with their energy for their music.

The keyboard mixed with guitar bluesy twists gives the bands an addictive energy which keeps everyone happily boucing to their rhythms. Their sound uses their heart and soul in traditional rock ‘n’ roll music. Thier music often described as ‘Coal mine rock’

we couldn’t decide between the two.

Portobello is a mushroom apparently and also the magician at the end of the musical Bed knobs an d Broomsticks sings a song called ‘Portobello Road’, so we weren’t too keen on that. In the end we With Carnabells increasing fan base I just decided to merge the two together thought it was about time I caught up in some way and we came up with with the guys and got to know a bit more Carnabells. about the band.

What do you love about Leeds and its culture?

It’s just such a buzzing city, the music scene How did the band first form And how did the bands name ‘Carnabells’ come about? is incredible too, tonnes and tonnes of quality acts.

Me and my brother Mitch first started jamming together and we had some tunes we wanted to play in a group. I’d heard In the band does everyone have their own Tom (drums) and Jack (keys) were into mu- roles? Who is the ladies man? sic also and I remember asking around Tom seems to be one with the females school if they were any good. The gener- recently, think it’s the new stubble and al response was pretty decent so we got scraggy hair look that’s caught the attenwriting and creating together. Then we tion. Mitch calls himself an ‘Athlete’, but he saw Nath (bass) playing in a few bands only plays Football once on a Saturday around Leeds looking cool, he accepted afternoon so I don’t know how that works... our request to jump aboard and be king The rest are just alcoholics. of the low end for us. The bands name comes from a couple of street names in How would you describe your music? Can London, Carnaby Street and Portobello you compare yourself to any Road. When we were thinking of a name other bands?

We love the 50s and artists like Chuck Berry, Eddie Cochran and The Everly Brothers. We’re also into jangly guitar pop like The Smiths and The Cure, so I suppose our music kind of reflects those influences together.

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What do you think of TV shows like X Factor producing bands like One Direction? Do you think these artists earn their fame in the way compared to bands like yourself?

We could say the typical ‘rock n roll’ thing and complain about it but we’re not really that fussed about those kinds of shows. X Factor is quite funny to watch now and again, especially when it’s the auditions. I suppose it’s good that those shows and groups are about though; it gives bands like us something to kick back at.

Are you a Harry Styles fan?

He has a quiff and wears jazzy shirts so he gets a nod of approval from us!

Tell us something about the band we didn’t know? Any embarrassing experiences that have happened whilst touring?

When we were in Camden we stayed in this Hostel, Clink Hostel I think it was called.

Pretty cool place, The Clash stayed there once apparently, but got thrown out for shooting pigeons or something like that.

But anyway there was this bar underground the hostel, we stayed there for a bit then on the way out we got chatting to this group. It was all laughs until this one fellow found out we were Leeds fans.

He didn’t seem too happy and started

shouting, ‘I F***ing hate Leeds! CHELSEA! CHELSEA!’ at us, Jack got scared and went outside to be sick. But the good thing about that hostel was the toast, best toast we’ve ever had.

Best venue to play in Leeds?

Hard to pin down there’s so many! But our favourites are probably The Cockpit, The Library’s 360 Club and The Brudenell Social Club.

What hair products are used to maintain those perfect quiffs?

We’d love to tell you, but it’s a secret.

What is more important to you, fame and fortune or making awesome music?

Just being widely respected for the music we make is probably the main thing.

There’s no better feeling than someone telling you they love something that you’ve created. But a little fortune would be nice, we need to be fed and watered...

Our last interview we did, you said you did a gig in Nandos and got lots of free chicken, will you be likely to make another appearance there? I had Nandos for the first time this year and now love the place!

We’d do a gig in Nandos everyday if it meant free Chicken! Only for the first time?

Where’ve you been all these years!? Best place ever init...

If you could work with any artist in the present or past who would this be and why?

Harry Styles... Only joking. Probably John Lennon and Paul McCartney when they were in the quarrymen, being in a Skiffle band looked ace! Morrissey would be interesting to work with, but he probably wouldn’t let us because we like chicken too much.

Cadbury Creme egg, how do you eat yours?

All in at once.

Tell us your best joke.. hope its good!

What did John Lennon say to the octopus? ‘I wanna hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand.’

What motivates you as a band?

Travelling everywhere, the buzz you get, and plenty of free beer.

What are the bands plans for 2014, any gigs or festivals?

We’re doing a little tour in March, with some more dates to be announced very soon. Our homecoming show is in Leeds though on the 5th April at The cockpit.

We’re also playing Live at Leeds this year, and hopefully a fair few festivals in the summer!

Tell us about your next show in Leeds and why should we come and watch you guys.

It’s the one at The Cockpit on 5th April.

It’s gonna be buzzing, the place was bouncing last time we played there. It’s only £5, we’ll have a couple of new tunes, and we might even tell everyone who attends our secret to how we maintain our perfect quiffs Sum up Carnabells in 3 words.

Rock and Roll The Carnabells offers something new and exciting to the music scene. Something we have all been waiting for, their music is produced with such energy you cannot help but fall in love with it!

And lastly thank you Carnabells for taking the time to answer our questions. For more info on up coming gigs and releases visit. www.facebook.com/carnabells www.carnabells.com

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Jordan 88.

Carroll Aspiring photographer, 22 year-old Jordan Carroll currently

studies photography at Leeds College of Art.. Jordan’s portrait photographs depict everyday events which take place and what she gets up to – mainly shots of close friends and gigs.

Although her work is in essence a documentation of her life, she manages to capture moments that even being on-looker you feel like you yourself have been transported into that moment.

Jordan’s style of photography is infused by a personal interest in tattoos and fashion which you feel an instant sense of as many of the portraits include images of young women decorated in vibrant tattoos and a grungy style. With this being her main theme, her work appears to be very artistic and inventive.While the focus of her photography seems to be on the model, the surroundings and environment is an integral part of the story and adventures being told with some backdrops being in a train station, buildings or eccentric decorated walls.

Written by Paige Holden www.jordancarroll.co.uk

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Sara Jackson

sarajacksondesigns.wordpress.com