ingénu/e magazine, issue 26, Autumn 2019

ingĂŠnu/e creative talent revealed

The Art of Giving

creative gift ideas for the festive season autumn festivals plus

galleries & exhibitions music, theatre & dance book & cd reviews creative courses & workshops creative lifestyle

south downs and high weald : issue 26: autumn 2019

ingénu/e creative talent revealed

contents spotlight on... the art of giving visual arts performing arts autumn festivals poetry, prose & illustration creative courses & workshops creative lifestyle coda

4 32 44 63 68 75 77 80

who’s who & what’s what editor Gill Kaye editor@ingenuemagazine.co.uk

for press releases

pressdesk@ingenuemagazine.co.uk

sales & marketing

Roger Kaye sales@ingenuemagazine.co.uk 07583 944546 07816 838694

online

www.ingenuemagazine.co.uk and big thanks to 2 Way Communcations for their invaluable help on the website www.2waycomm

cover image

'April Wing', by Eastbourne-based artist

Catriona Millar. With work in collections all around the world, Millar has become a highly sought-after artist. She has recently launched a collection of art cards, see the whole story on page 39.

"if it's not in ingénu/e ...it's not happening!"

prelude Hello dear readers, and welcome to the autumn issue of your favourite arts and culture magazine!

As the year starts to wind down we look ahead to longer nights and cooler days. Some of us will be taking stock of the fruits of our summer activities. Some will be busily making the most of the literal fruits as they ripen, harvesting the crop before the wasps beat us to it. We'll be packing away our summer things and shaking the creases out of our winter coats. Some folks will be getting the chimney swept and replenishing the log pile. (Oh lucky they, I so miss our log fire!)

The main battery of festivals is behind us, and as we enjoy the memories of music-filled warm summer evenings, lively open-air theatre and stunning, inspiring open studios and art trails, the organisers are already busy planning next year's events. It's not all over yet though, there are still a few festivals to be enjoyed – read all about them from page 63.

I seem to have spent quite a lot of time travelling on trains lately. I realised the other day that I hardly ever take my sketchbook out. Time was that I never left home without it and all those glimpsed moments and the fascinating faces of my fellow travellers – reading, chatting, sometimes sleeping – would make their way onto its pages. People's faces have not become any less fascinating, in fact I'm finding them more interesting... perhaps it's my age! So I'm making my new year's resolution early – call it an autumn resolution if you will – to once again take my sketchbook with me wherever I go.

Which brings us to the inexorable approach of Christmas. We here at ingénue refuse to get swept up in the commercialisation of the season. Why should we, when there are so many talented, creative people making great stuff all around us?

From painters and printmakers to sculptors and wood-turners, glass artists and ceramicists to craft artists and jewellery makers, photographers, musicians and writers – all create stuff that we want to possess or experience. And the fact that they have invested time, expertise and care into their product makes it all the more valuable.

So in the Spotlight On... feature you will find plenty of ideas to fulfil your Christmas shopping list without once stepping into a mall! In fact the whole magazine is so geared. Tickets to the ballet or the theatre make a wonderful gift, and there are some fabulous concerts coming up. There are four music CDs from local musicians and bands reviewed on page 60, any of which would make a great addition to a Christmas stocking. And if you check out the book reviews from page 68 (there are nine of them, such talented writers – I had a brilliant time!) I bet you'll not only be ordering some copies for friends and family, you'll be getting a cheeky one for yourself as well.

So, without further ado, get your notebook ready and read on. –Gill Kaye, editor

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

3

spotlight on...

the art of giving W

hat better way to celebrate Christmas, while also helping local artists and creatives to prosper, than to treat a family member or friend to an original work of art.

You never know, be it a painting, a mixed media piece, a sculpture, a ceramic creation, a tactile piece of woodturning, jewellery or a photograph, it may show up in the next century, passed down the years, on the Antiques Roadshow!

The artists spotlighted here all have work very well worth viewing. There are others not featured here – Amy Frankie Smith, whose translucent porcelain lighting is worth a visit at her open studio in November (see page 77). And look out for A Feast of Christmas Stories (p.71) "Forget the Socks"!

Of course, you can always be self-centred and acquire something for yourself. Why not? Christmas is all about giving!!

4

ArtSpring Gallery is growing!

A

fter more than three successful years trading on Tonbridge High Street, ArtSpring Gallery is thrilled to announce that it is expanding. The Gallery now has an online shop which showcases a more extensive collection of members’ work. Accessed via the gallery website, www.artspringgallery.co.uk, there is free delivery on orders to the UK or a ‘click and collect from the gallery’ option. The collection will be frequently changing so it’s worth looking regularly to see what’s new.

ArtSpring is also welcoming four guest artists for October and November: Christina France, an abstract printmaker from Sevenoaks presenting her 'Ghostlines' series of etchings; Liz Emtage, bringing her

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving the test of time in terms of both quality of make and fashion. Items are hallmarked with her unique maker’s mark by the London Assay Office.

Alison’s work is sold through Gallery BN5 in Henfield and Gallery92 in Hurstpierpoint and, more recently, through her website. She is always happy to discuss potential commissions.

Contact Alison at ariansilverdesigns@gmail.com, 01273 492932. www.ariansilverdesigns.co.uk.

New Art Gallery, Alfriston

I ceramic lights and plant-inspired ceramics to the gallery; Rebecca Laister, showcasing her specialist reactive glass vessels and platters, plus a welcome return of former member Karin Keidel-Henderson, with new work by this popular Tonbridge-based goldsmith.

From the end of October there will be gift ideas galore at ArtSpring with their Christmas Show opening with the addition of a range of smaller items to help customers find those very special and unique presents for friends and family.

For more information and updates follow us on social media at @artspringallery or sign up to our newsletter via www.artspringgallery.co.uk.

ArtSpring Gallery, 167 High Street, Tonbridge TN9 1BX Tel: 01732 365924. Opening times: Tues – Sat 10:30-17:00, other times by appointment.

Arian Silver Designs

A

lison Crowe has been designing and making jewellery for over ten years from her studio in Henfield, West Sussex. She is passionate about working with silver which she loves for its beauty, versatility and the many creative possibilities it presents.

Inspired by natural forms, she distils what she sees into her own minimalist design interpretation.

Following a college course, Alison took regular one-to-one lessons with a highly respected jeweller, from whom she gained a solid base of knowledge and skills on which she has continued to build over the years. She uses traditional silversmithing techniques, including hand-piercing, casting and fold-forming, introducing colour by setting a variety of gemstones.

Quality of finish is important to Alison, and her emphasis is on producing jewellery that will stand

often wonder how artists find the imagination to create their work and where do they start.

I found out from one of the artists that I have taken on recently, Jon Hamond. He plays in a band and he was asked if he could make a snare drum.

He took up the challenge at 31, having never used a chisel before, and found that he had a natural talent for turning wood. Using wood from fallen trees, he has turned them into bowls and small sculptures, as well as the wood from the bar at the re-furbished View Hotel in Eastbourne, that was built by the TUC for their Conferences, and he feels he can sense, through the wood, how many deals were made on that bar and are now in the wood!

The same applies to the bowl made from the wood of the recently re-furbished lock at Teddington on the Thames. This is made from the hardest wood in the world, where the Beatles moored up and walked across the lock for an interview in the TV studios. Monty Python also did their Fish Dance on this, as well as many, then unknown, actors who sat there learning their lines. He now specialises in making full sets of drums. (continued over...)

opposite top: Lynn Beck, Cuckmere (Sussex Art Collective); above: Christina France, Lost in Low Cloud, etching with 23 carat gold leaf (ArtSpring Gallery); below: Arian Silver Designs, gemstone rings

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

5

spotlight on... the art of giving I organised a gig for Gina Southgate, at the Walrus Pub in Brighton, where she painted Splash Point Jazz whilst they played. They played twice and she painted both sets, on canvas, a metre by a metre and a half, without any preparation. Where do they find the imagination? Or where do they start?

Another new artist takes photos of, predominantly, trees. Puts them into his computer and then adds paint via the computer to produce prints. Each tree has a reference number and if put into a GPS system will lead you to that tree!

To celebrate the 50 years of the Beatles, Dick Segal has interpreted six of their songs into 40 limited edition prints. Another artist, Amanda Palmer, was chosen to hang her work in the Mall Galleries as part of the Society of Women Artists Exhibition.

Any of these works would make a great, unique gift.

New Art Gallery, The Coach House, High Street, Alfriston BN26 5TD. Check www.newart-gallery.co.uk for further information and opening times

Bauble & Hoop

Silver and gemstone statement rings

V

ictoria Lovell makes gutsy rings that bring out the magnificence of the wearer. Her work is bold and beautiful, each ring is unique and full of its own vibrant character.

With her hard work Bauble and Hoop has grown since Victoria started in 2018 with just twelve rings Scenic Maligano Jasper sterling silver

Gina Southgate, Splash Point Jazz (New Art Gallery)

and, to add to her popular range Pieces of Earth and Sky, this year she has been very busy launching four new ranges.

There's the Beachcomber Range, rings with pottery shards and beach glass found on the coasts of Scotland; the Totem Range, with animals and birds as their inspiration; the Lustrous Range that richly combines silver and gold set with semi-precious gemstones; and the Artefact Range, sterling silver rings set with archaeological finds such as Viking artefacts.

Visit baubleandhoop.co.uk for more information and to discover the ring for you.

Sussex Arts Collective Festive Selection

“MERRILY! 2019 Christmas Exhibition”

I

sn’t it good to know in an age of mass produced imported goods you still have the choice to buy hand crafted and individually designed gifts and treats made and sold within a few miles of where you live.

Such makers and creators will be gathered together by The Sussex Arts Collective throughout December at the atmospheric Crypt Gallery Seaford for their fourteenth Christmas exhibition: “MERRILY!”.

The Collective will have completed a ten-month long residency at this seaside venue and the year culminates with “MERRILY!” an extravaganza of quality and affordable art and craft.

The exhibition will be open daily from 30th November to 22nd December 10am to 4pm and Sundays midday to 3pm. “MERRILY!” will be open during Seaford’s spectacular festive shopping event, Seaford Magic, on Saturday 7th December.

The Crypt Gallery is in sight of iconic coastal

6

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving views. It is just a short walk from the railway station, the main coast road A259 and the bus stops for the frequent number 12 service from Brighton and Eastbourne. There is ample free on-street parking.

The Cuckmere & Flint Rooms Crypt Gallery, 23 Church Street, Seaford BN25 2HD. Visit www.sussexartscollective.com for full details.

leave it until the last minute, take your time, relax and take Christmas in your stride.

Colonnade House, 47 Warwick Street, Worthing, BN11 3DH. Find out more www.colonnadehouse.co.uk

Gallery BN5, Henfield

T Colonnade House, Worthing Take Christmas in your stride

I

f the thought of the run-up to Christmas brings unseasonal feelings of fear and stress, why not turn it into a stroll this year by starting early? We recommend a leisurely approach with regular visits to Colonnade House where you will find plenty of new gift ideas followed by some welcome refreshments in one of Warwick Street’s thriving cafes and restaurants. You’ll deserve it after all that hard work.

If you take our advice you won’t miss out on all the delights that are in store this autumn, which include a visit from the Fairy Tale Fair, a feast of print from Sussex Printmakers, textile art from the Curious Threads group, sculptural ceramics from John Evans and Brian Tew, inspirational magic from Kate Taylor, plus drawings and paintings by local artists including Michelle Dawson, Karren Urben, Shona Macdonald, Kathryn Best and Janet Branscombe.

To round it off we have the return of our own popular Christmas Pop-up Shop in the lead-up to the big day, alongside an explosion of colourful paintings by local artist Walter Wall.

It really is too much to take in at once, so don’t

he artists at Gallery BN5 have had a very busy summer, but there is no let up, as they are now turning their attention to making beautiful handmade gifts and creating some fabulous artwork for Christmas gifts, or just to spoil yourself!

This small independently run gallery offers some very fairly priced, locally produced gifts, silver, fused glass, glass and precious stone jewellery, ceramics, soap stone carvings, paintings, photography, wood turning and a wonderful range of greetings cards.

The gallery is open from 9.30 until 4.30 Tuesday to Saturday, and will be open Christmas Eve 9.30 until 1.00pm for those last minute gifts! Pop along and have a browse and a chat to one of the local artists on duty, they are a very helpful bunch!

You will find Gallery BN5 in the High Street, Henfield, West Sussex BN5 DB. www.gallerybn5.co.uk

from top: Wild Whiskers The Fairy Tale Fair (Colonnade House); Frances Geesin, copper bowl ("Merrily"); Esther Newnham Brown, Battersea Sunset (BN5 Gallery)

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

7

spotlight on... the art of giving

West Street Loft, Shoreham-by-Sea

the little art gallery, West Wittering

W

A

est Street Loft has a plethora of open plan artists’ studios, and also holds regular creative art and craft workshops. There is an Open Studios event leading up to Christmas on Saturday 14th December, and there may be others so do check out the website and Facebook page.

Established in 2011 alongside the upper Loft venue space, the studios are home to a range of visual arts and crafts. There are twelve talented resident artists including ceramists, jewellery designers, painters, sculptors, glass artists and textile designers. The open plan studios have a dedicated kiln room that serves ceramicists who employ a variety of techniques to transform humble pieces of clay into highly desirable objects. Much of the artists' work can be found on display at Cafe Artisan, 2 Tarmount Lane.

For more info visit weststreetloft.co.uk/studios or www.facebook.com/pg/weststreetloftstudios. West Street Loft, West Street, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 6DA.

fter a buzzing summer of colourful shows at 'the little art gallery' in West Wittering we will be starting our winter series with new works by Isabel Dodson, Angeline Tournier, Philip Hood and Deborah Richards before the run-up to Christmas.

From soft calming images through to large modern abstract works we will present something different and varied and although fewer images of the local coastline will be on our walls we will have some to hand as and if needed.

We know buying works of art is not something most people do very often so we like to help with a variety of styles and subjects to suit all tastes and budgets. If you let us know before you visit of any specifics you have in mind we can try to assemble a suitable selection of work to help you make your choice.

Let us help you choose something different for presents over the festive season too. We will have ceramics, glassware, jewellery and pewterware together with a variety of paintings, textile art and printmaking.

As a small gallery we cannot display much at any one time but can always source work for anyone who likes a particular artists’ work or style. the little art gallery, Rookwood Road, West Wittering, PO20 8LT. For information and opening times go to www.thelittleartgallery.online. this page top: little art gallery [Painting- Ashley Jones, Ceramics- Claudi Barratt, Pewter- Fleur Grenier, EnamelsLinda Foskett]; left: Sarah Silve, silver cheese knives (West Street Loft); opposite from top: Debbie Smith, silver scissors necklace; inset: silver necklace [both commissioned works]; Susie Olford, Autumn Warmth

8

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving thejewellery.workshop and you can contact her at debbiesmith64@btinternet.com. Debbie also runs jewellery workshops, see advert on page 76. Find out more at www.thejewellery-workshop.co.uk.

Susie Olford

A

Debbie Smith

jewellery designer maker

D

ebbie Smith is a jewellery designer, making exquisite pieces from her studio in a quiet corner of Lindfield. “Making a piece of jewellery, especially for a particular individual, is a real joy!

If you wear a piece of jewellery that someone has given you as a special gift, it can become intensely personal.

I work mainly in silver, and love to create new pieces of jewellery. I gather inspiration from so many everyday things. I am always observing, I take lots of photos of things that inspire me, which I share on my Instagram page. It’s always something that catches my eye, it could be a combination of shapes or a pattern, from there I develop it into something beautiful. I normally work directly with a customer to make that special piece, their input can be essential, so I can get a feel of the person who's going to wear it. The making of a piece is really important to me, it’s tactile, and is always created lovingly by hand.”

Debbie's Instagram page is

utumn is here with its palette of deeper and warmer hues. After a successful spring and summer this year, it is pleasant to have a month to relax as the leaves change their ‘coats of many colours’. But not too much relaxation; plenty of tidying and taking stock. I travel to the Charente region of France in early autumn hoping to spend a week en plein air working with oils/acrylics in peaceful surroundings. Strange to be looking at autumn shades but thinking of my spring exhibition.

To see examples of my work on the internet, please look at the comprehensive websites: Chichester Art Trail, and Arundel Gallery Trail 2019.

There is also a two-page article in Fine Magazine (Surrey and Sussex) 2019, Issue II, pp18-19 which can be viewed on-line. I don’t have a website, preferring to work on paintings than challenge my patience with the internet!

With giving in mind, I offer 6-inch square, bright colour framed, original paintings which are always popular as gifts (c.£25) smoart@btinternet.com.

Spring with Regis area/Chichester Art Trail: 2/3rd, and 8/9/10th May 2020, my venue is Flansham, PO22 8NJ. I am also represented by the little art gallery, West Wittering.

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

9

spotlight on... the art of giving

Montague Gallery, Worthing

M

ontague Quarter, Liverpool Rd, Worthing is just a three-minute walk from the new W.O.W ‘Worthing Observation Wheel’ and the award-winning Art Deco ‘Pier of the Year’ and is surrounded by a great choice of shops and restaurants including MasterChef Winner Kenny Tutts new ‘Pitch’.

This spacious former empty shop in the heart of Worthing has been transformed into a bright and beautiful exhibition space showcasing talented local artists and makers.

“We are proud to say that the Gallery has been much appreciated and warmly welcomed by the local residents and visitors to the town alike,” say Directors Alan Humphries and Kim-Adele Fuller.

“Our aim is to present local, unique, affordable, art and crafts in an accessible and welcoming environment. We have up to forty talented artists exhibiting at any one time who are often there to meet and chat to.

There is something to suit every taste and pocket as prices range from £5 to £500 and beyond.

We have our own Montague Gallery Gift Voucher for that ‘hard to buy for’ person or just for you!”

Montague Gallery, Montague Quarter, Liverpool Rd, Worthing BN11 1YJ. www.montaguegallery.co.uk

Southern Ceramics Group First Winchester Exhibition

500 works from 50 potters – to view and buy Support local artists!

T

he Southern Ceramics Group was founded in 1975 by a small group of enthusiastic potters, the group now has around 150 members from Hampshire and the surrounding counties. Known for their successful annual exhibition in Chichester, the group’s members are professional and amateur potters and sculptors, teachers and students. One of the most striking things about their exhibitions is the wide range of artefacts they manage to create from the same material. The work varies from bright colourful earthenware vases, to subtle stoneware bottles, fine porcelain bowls and sculptural forms; both abstract and figurative.

For the first time, the Group is providing workshops and demonstrations during the exhibition.

There will be three opportunities to see throwing on the wheel on 14th, 15th and 21st December. Children’s workshops will be run on 23rd November, offering children a chance to make Christmas tree decorations and on 30th November there is a workshop for children to make ceramic masks.

Places on all the workshops can be booked by phone or online from the Winchester Discovery Centre.

City Space, Winchester Discovery Centre, 23rd November to 19th January. For full details about the exhibition visit www.southernceramicgroup.org.uk. top: Annie Flitcroft, ceramic bowl (Southern Ceramics Group); left: Kevin Hicks, Pier 2019 (Montague Gallery)

10

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving

Katherine Lawrie jewellery designer-maker

K

Karin Moorhouse

at The Arundel Studio Gallery 29th November to 8th December

I

am delighted to confirm that for one week in December I will be showing my paintings at The Arundel Studio Gallery with thanks to Cheryl Howeld. Cheryl has managed and owned galleries in London and on moving down to Arundel she wasted no time in setting up her new gallery here on Fitzalan Road.

There will be a variety of work in the show including some hand crafted jewellery as well as painting and the selection I will be showing will favour my more loose and 'moody' land and seascapes. Cheryl and I agreed that the colours and tones used described both the feeling of place and of atmosphere and even though sometimes site-specific the mark making and tones will remind the viewer of a place they too hold dear.

The exhibition will run from Saturday 30th November to the weekend of 7th/ 8th December with our Private View on Friday 29th. If you would like to join please email me and I will add you to our mailing list.

Also around the same dates and designed to coordinate with Arundel By Candlelight (Saturday 7th December) there will be a number of pop-up spaces showing paintings/jewellery/ceramics/printmaking and other original art works to select for those special gifts. Watch this space and again email me to be included on my mailing list for latest updates about these events and others to come!

We look forward to seeing you in December.

Arundel Studio Gallery, 40 Fitzalan Road, Arundel, BN18 9JS. karinbmoorhouse@gmail.com www.karinmoorhouseart.com

atherine Lawrie creates one-off and bespoke pieces of jewellery. Inspiration comes from many sources; however, a predominant one is the natural world and its forms. You can see this influence in the sterling silver, silver gilt and gold floral and botanical jewels she designs and makes. Her work is richly textural, often with only an essence of what created the texture remaining. This gives the work a charm, which when mixed with semi precious gems and beads is truly striking. Many pieces of her work hold hidden symbolism.

Katherine will be opening her studio to visitors for two weekends in November.

Alongside her work you’ll find work from other local artists and makers. She has a real passion for celebrating locally made, affordable, accessible, original work.

Katherine’s work can also be found in several different venues over the winter, including Julian Stephens in Brighton, The Light Up Shoreham’s Artisan’s Market, The Montague Gallery in Worthing, The Basement 93 in Steyning and at Steyning Arts at Christmas.

She also sells her work via Folksy online. All dates and further details are on her website, go to www.klawriejewellery.co.uk below: Katherine Lawrie, Bramber Castle pendants

pictured above: Karin Moorhouse, Landscape

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

11

spotlight on... the art of giving

Artologie, Cuckfield

S

nugly situated in the high street of the charming village of Cuckfield, Artologie combines all that is appealing to the creative shopper.

Artologie can help you with the art of giving. Working with a collection of creative artists and makers you can find some bespoke gift ideas. Shop for fine art or handmade cotton rag papers and sketchbooks by Khadi. Discover the possibilities of personalised silver jewellery or hand painted cards with Sussex designer makers Wendy Rowark and Valle Dawkes.

Originally the village butchers, the shop Artologie now occupies has been tastefully renovated to pay tribute to its history, adding a unique ambience to your browsing and shopping experience.

Artologie, 18 High Street, Cuckfield, RH17 5JU, 01444 708380. www.artologie.co.uk

Gift Vouchers at

Sussex Sculpture Studios

W

e are always working hard at Sussex Sculpture to bring interesting courses to the studio for those keen to explore making art, both in two or three dimensions. This year is no exception with the inclusion of practising artists Ben LaughtonSmith and Michael Joseph joining our strong team of tutors this autumn.

A studio Gift Voucher opens the door to an Aladdin's cave of choices for creative people and choosing the amount you would like to spend, it is suitable for all budgets.

So if you know a creative person who would like to develop their ideas and skills, or if you're stuck for what to give someone creative for Christmas, or for their birthday – whatever your budget, Sussex Sculpture Gift Vouchers are the answer. They can be used for any of our wide range of courses and we welcome people of all levels of experience. Being creative is good for the soul!

Sussex Sculpture Studios, Epstein House, 1 Daux Road, Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9TF. www.sussexsculpture.co.uk

12 12

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

from top: drawing from life; sculpture in progress (Sussex Sculpture Studios); above: festive painting by Wendy Rowark and [inset] Christmas gift ideas (Artologie)

spotlight on... the art of giving

Jessops Farm Studios, Bough Beech

G

Artists Raise The Bar For Horsham’s Year Of Culture

Horsham Artists Open Studio’s annual Art Fair

W

ith 2019 designated as Horsham’s Year of Culture, Horsham Artists Open Studio’s (HAOS) group are gearing up for their annual showcase with two events. Once again the annual Art Fair will be held at its usual venue, the Horsham Council Offices in Parkside, on the weekend of 19th and 20th October.

Last year more than 2,000 art and craft aficionados attended over the two days, to enjoy the work of more than sixty artists, sculptors, textile designers, jewellers, up-cyclers and other makers. All work is for sale with prices ranging between a couple of quid and several thousands of pounds! It’s a great place for Christmas present hunters and serious art collectors alike.

Prior to the Art Fair, as a preview to the show and in celebration of the Year of Culture, The Capitol cinema in Horsham is hosting a free exhibition in its upstairs foyer showing a selection of single works by over forty HAOS members. The show started on September 16th and goes on until October 27th. horshamartistsopenstudios.co.uk

iving is a two-way pleasure.

When you add the extra ingredient of a gift that has been created with love and care, that joy of giving is tripled and enhanced.

This accounts for the popularity of art and craft fairs, especially at this time of year.

Jessops Farm Studios Art & Craft Fair is intimate, personal but also full of the energy and creativity of the artists and craftspeople involved. Not only can you buy unique works of art for a special person, but there are many modestly priced items that are equally individual.

The browser sale and the affordable art exhibition will enable you to buy some art at bargain prices, while a new range of cards and Christmas wrapping paper exclusive to Jessops Farm are always popular.

Further, you can enjoy wreath-making or create your own painting or wrapping paper in our everpopular workshops.

To find out more, please call Cathy Bird on 01892 870067 or email cathy.bird1@btopenworld.com.

Jessops Farm Studios, Tonbridge Road, Bough Beech, TN87AU. Google Jessops Farm Studios and you will see exactly where we are! top: Angela Brittain, A Word in your Ear (Horsham Artists Open Studios; below: workshops at Jessops Farm Studios are always lively and popular

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

13

spotlight on... the art of giving

@The Makery, Eastbourne

T Peon Boyle

Sussex Printmakers

T

his Christmas Sussex Printmaking is heading to Cambridge. We are joining 'Ink, Paper + Print', for a weekend print and illustration fair. After that 'INK, Autumn 2019' is coming to Colonnade House, Worthing; from 5th to 17th November we are celebrating printmaking with a group of artists, plus there will be a seasonal gift shop. In December I will take part in the Colonnade House pop-up shop, which will have all sorts of fabulous creations – from woodturning to cushions – something for everyone for the Christmas season. Currently I am at Worthing Museum and Art Gallery for another group exhibition with Sussex Makers, open right the way through to December.

The September term for courses and workshops in the Studio kicked off with a six-week evening course on Introduction to Printmaking, and in November we have two seasonally related courses: Gelli plate mono print for Christmas gifts and Make Christmas Cards with lino cut. For more information on all the above visit www.sussexartandprintmaking.co.uk.

he only retail outlet in Eastbourne that is managed as an artists’ cooperative, @The Makery is sited within the Enterprise Centre just a few minutes walk away from the railway station.

Looking for something unique? Then look no further. We stock an eclectic range of hand-crafted art, craft and home furnishings, paintings and prints, ceramics, fused and cast glass, textiles, jewellery, woodturning and furniture. With a rehang every six weeks and featuring guest artists there is always something new to see.

Aside from the creative work itself, @The Makery collaborates with a range of events organised by the Enterprise Centre. ‘Adorn’, a contemporary jewellery show, will be showcasing the work of jewellery designers and makers at the Enterprise Centre on Saturday 2nd November 10am-5pm.

If you haven’t yet discovered us, do pay us a visit; you are assured a warm welcome by the artist on duty.

With prices ranging from just a few pounds to a few hundred there really is something for everyone here.

Visit www.themakery.me.uk for more information about the gallery and the artists.

top: hand-printed cards by Peon Boyle; below: Sonya Tatham, Hastings Boats & Fishing Huts (@The Makery)

Way Out There & Back, Littlehampton

T

ucked away in a charming ancient courtyard in Littlehampton, along the beautiful South Coast of England, you will find one of the South Coast's most unique independent retailers, Way Out There & Back, trading from this location for over 27 years.

14

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving inspired by the incredible colours of the Mediterranean, seen on a recent trip to Mallorca. She will be incorporating some stunning semi-precious stones, including opals, for these new pieces.

Vee's work can be seen at Falmer Christmas Fair on 16th and 17th November. For more about Vee and her work visit www.vpjewellery.co.uk.

The Cranbrook Art Show

A They are one of the only locations to house a UV reactive gallery along with their other gallery walls. Underneath the respective gallery walls are the most unique locally sourced and created artisan gifts.

The gift selection ranges from bespoke jewellery, world and festival music, essential oils, crystals, gift cards, divination tools, clothing, ceramics, decorative skulls and dragons, fairies plus angels, authentic Native American artefacts as well as Posca paint pens and Kobra Spray paint.

Way Out There and Back also offers divination courses and readings by Staci Mendoza, a well-respected and published author of 28+ books on the subjects of tarot, scrying and palmistry. Way Out There and Back is also the HQ for Littlehampton’s Organisation of Community Arts, LOCA, who host the Love Festival, Littlehampton Arts Trail and Arts Festival. Find them at 2 Evans Garden, Arcade Road, Littlehampton BN17 5AP, or on Facebook @WOTABshop.

rt and small galleries have had a long history in Cranbrook. Continuing in this tradition, the Cranbrook Art Show is still thriving in its 27th year.

Visitors can enjoy recent work by returning artists, alongside new disciplines to the show, of graphic illustration and stained glass art.

The Vestry Hall, the venue, is a listed landmark in the centre of town with a beautiful vaulted ceiling. This annual exhibition aims to provide a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where visitors can both browse through a varied mix of art and meet many of the artists.

There will be oil and delicate watercolour paintings, representational and abstract, plus printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, glass and jewellery. So much to choose from for that special Christmas gift or a piece which will become a treasured possession.

Vestry Hall, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HA. Entry is free, Thursday 7th to Saturday 9th November. For more information visit www.cranbrookartshow.org.uk.

from top: Vee Pease, Necklace with sterling silver amulets, trade beads and semi-precious beads; Vee Pease, Chunky sterling silver bracelet; below: Anna Thomson, ceramics (Cranbrook Art Show)

Vee Pease

jewellery designer maker

V

ee Pease makes beautiful silver jewellery from her studio in the heart of Sussex, taking inspiration from her surroundings and her love of nature.

She has recently been experimenting with chunkier pieces of jewellery. Using larger gauge silver wire and sheet, she’s been making heavier pieces, particularly bracelets.

Vee is also very excited about her new designs, ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

15

spotlight on... the art of giving

Pier Road Coffee & Art celebrate their 2nd anniversary in November

P

Kent Painters’ Group

29th Annual Art Exhibition & Sale 2019

T

he Kent Painters Group (KPG) held its first art show in 1990 and to date they have distributed more than £300,000 to mental health and learning disability charities throughout Kent.

KPG will be hosting their 29th Annual Art Exhibition and Sale at Sevenoaks School, TN13 1HU, over the weekend of Friday 25th October to Sunday 27th October. Entry is free all weekend.

On Friday evening you can meet the artists between 6.30 and 9pm. A chance to come along and view the art, with a first chance to buy, perhaps with a glass of wine in your hand! On Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th it is open from 10am to 4pm. Unframed work is also for sale along with coffee, cakes and light lunches.

There are 60 acclaimed artists and sculptors exhibiting this year, many of whom have a close affiliation with Kent. They use a wide range of media and techniques. KPG offer the public the opportunity to buy quality art at modest prices, and three local charities will be benefitting from the event this year.

For more information on the event phone 01732 847913 or visit www.kentpaintersgroup.co.uk for details of the artists and images of their work, or visit www. facebook.com/KentPaintersGroupKPG or Twitter @KentPaintersGp or Instagram kentpaintersgroup.

16

ier Road Coffee & Art opened in Littlehampton in 2017 by Mike La-Traille and his partner Lucy Harvey, both of whom are photographers. Mike has been exhibiting and selling his work for the past 17 years around the world and he decided he wanted to leave his education role and concentrate on owning a gallery.

The gallery holds monthly exhibitions, with new work every month from resident artists or from the arrival of brand new artists. On average they exhibit the work of around 90 artists every month, across a variety of disciplines including photography, textiles, ceramics, beach art, painting, glass design, felting, illustration, jewellery and wood design.

A range of art sessions is available, run by tutors who also exhibit in the gallery. There are two-hour beginners sessions as well as more advanced sessions for those with some skills. They range from pencil drawing, watercolours, oils, lino printing, acrylics and many others.

The gallery affords visitors the opportunity to enjoy the exhibitions whilst having a coffee (Lavazza) and a choice of locally made cakes. The gallery actively promotes the concept of the #justacard campaign. The idea being that if every visitor to an exhibition bought just one card they could help to keep the artist and gallery going.

You can find Pier Road Coffee & Art at 1-2 Pier Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5BA and online at www.facebook.com/pierroadcoffeeart.

top: Amanda Averillo, beach scene, monoprint (Kent Painters Group) left: Rebecca Laister, fused glass bowl (Kent Painters Group); above: Pier Road Coffee and Art Gallery

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving

Ursula Stone

life drawings and oil paintings

U

rsula’s striking sought-after life drawings are often drawn from moving models using a variety of implements including feathers, twigs, sticks and fingers. She uses Chinese inks and sometimes walnut ink as well as wax resist crayons and pastels. She captures the essence of the human form in its many expressions through simple gesture lines bringing with minimal strokes a strong statement which includes a title that enhances the image.

Her oil paintings also lean toward minimalism and her theme at the moment is ‘The Elements’ latterly, working with Air. Her paintings fall into the genre of abstract landscape or inner landscape deeply worked through using brushes and palette knives.

She says “Inspired by the beauty that surrounds me I paint the elements not as a literal representation but as they come through me as a metaphor. My technique creates an atmospheric presence that reflects in the title. My work sensitively adheres to the gestures of the colour as I work with combinations that bring an emotional response from the viewer”.

Ursula is exhibiting at the next Affordable Art Fair, Battersea, at Chalk Gallery in Lewes, in Taffels Café in Forest Row and in her studio gallery in Forest Row. Visit www.ursulastone.com for further information.

by local artists, you are bound to find a unique gift to suit any occasion, from stained glass, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, a piece of art to adorn any wall, captivating sculptures to enhance any garden and so much more. Each month you’ll also find a special guest artist’s work on show. And if you’re not sure what to buy, the Gallery Gift vouchers are ideal to give as a present.

The gallery also offers a variety of workshops such as creative sculpture, printmaking and felting. Picture framing is also now available.

To find out more go to the website and sign up for the newsletter. Prepare to be inspired! Shoreham Art Gallery, 27 Brunswick Road, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 5WA. www.shorehamgallery.co.uk

Shoreham Art Gallery

T

he stunning little Shoreham Art Gallery can be found just south of Shoreham-by-Sea railway station. Run by 24 dedicated members and open seven days a week, Shoreham Art Gallery really is filled with art from the heart!

Displaying a beautiful collection of original arts and crafts

top: Ursula Stone, Energise, oil on canvas; inset: Ursula Stone, Questioning, life drawing Chinese ink; above: Abi Street, Magnolias, glass panel (Shoreham Art Gallery)

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

17

spotlight on... the art of giving

Brunswick & Thorn, Thorn Road, Worthing (just off the seafront behind Premier Inn). Drop by at any time between 9am and 11am.

For more info visit www.worthingartstudios.com; it's westendgalleryworthing for Instagram and Facebook; email us at info@worthingartstudios.com.

Screens 4 Printing

ready-made and custom screens and inks

Christmas Events at Worthing’s

West End Gallery

Showcasing locally-made art in an informal and friendly setting

T

his artist-run gallery and studio space celebrated its third birthday in October. Set in a traditional Victorian corner shop at 87 Rowlands Road, it is one of a growing number of small creative businesses in Worthing’s ‘West End’, From Thursday 14th November until Christmas Eve, resident artists Sarah Sepe and Barry Williams will be joined by four local guest artists. In addition to Sarah’s textile inspired art and original prints and Barry’s photography and quirky mixed media ‘Conversation Pieces’, they will have a range of inspired glass, ceramics, textiles and cards. A great opportunity to find a unique Christmas gift or a surprise stocking-filler.

In December, the Gallery is taking part in Worthing Town Centre Initiatives’ Toy Soldier Trail. We will have free Activity Sheets for children that are unique to the Gallery and the official Trail maps so why not start the family trail in Rowlands Road? Discover the location and names of ten life sized toy soldiers across the town – there will be one very close to the Gallery!

Throughout the year Sarah and Barry host informal monthly Networking Breakfasts in Worthing for local artists and anyone interested in the arts. They are always on the 7th day of each month and are held at

18

W

ith the increasing emphasis on handmade Christmas, screens4printing has the perfect solution for personalising many aspects of the festive season.

Their easy-to-use screens with a range of popular Christmas designs can be used to produce cards, wrapping paper, gift tags and much more besides.

There is a range of designs from the mini robin, to the large scale Christmas words. There is something for everyone.

If you don’t fancy using a ready-made design, and would prefer something even more personal, then their custom screen service will allow you to upload your own drawings and designs and they will send you a screen within a week allowing you to reproduce your individual design many many times. www. screens4printing.com

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving

Lingfield Art Exhibition

Peter John Norton (1913-1995) at

The Midhurst Gallery

28th October to 3rd November

P

eter Norton was born in Buriton, Hampshire and died aged 82 in Chichester.

Peter served in the Royal Navy and after retiring as Captain aged 45 devoted his new life to his natural talent for art and writing, and attained his first post teaching at Guildford School of Art. In the early years Peter and his wife, Olive, would arrange informal summer art classes for friends and students in Eygalieres, Provence where they camped out and learnt to paint en plein air. Olive looked after them and after a long day Peter critiqued everyone’s work each evening.

With increasing popularity, a property was needed to replace the camping arrangements and Cubertou, an old farmhouse in the village of St Martin-le-Redon was found which became the summer school. Students still fondly remember idyllic and entertaining times at Cubertou and its outstanding teaching.

Peter’s mastery of soft pastel in the capturing of light, colour and atmosphere was greatly influenced by his closest friend and Sussex neighbour, Paul Maze (1887 – 1979).

Peter Norton’s works are being exhibited at The Midhurst Gallery, Grange Road, Midhurst GU29 9LT. Visit www.midhurstgallery.co.uk for details.

T

his annual Exhibition has been running for 42 years with a dedicated team of volunteers. Now, however, the members of the team are all getting older and less equal to the challenges of running a large exhibition. It is therefore with great sadness that we announce that this will be the last exhibition run by the Lingfield Art Association. Should a group of volunteers wish to take over, the existing team would be very pleased to assist and advise.

Please contact us through the Lingfield Art website.

Despite the above, exhibitors and visitors will see no difference in the forthcoming event and we anticipate the same high standard of exhibits as previous years.

The exhibition is non-profit-making so the prices are very competitive, with both framed paintings and more economical unframed paintings available. You may just find the right Christmas present for that difficult-to-buyfor relative.

Greetings cards of original paintings will also be on sale, as will tea, coffee and home-made cakes.

Open daily at the Lingfield and Dormansland Community Centre, RH7 6AB, 10am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm, free entry. Visit lingfieldart.org for more info.

clockwise from opp top: Sarah Sepe, Moody Times, collage; Barry Williams, An Unexpected Wave (West End Gallery); Peter Norton, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon (Midhurst Gallery); Lingfield Annual Art Exhibition 2018; two examples of Christmas prints (Screens 4 Printing)

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

19

spotlight on... the art of giving 1st Saturday of the month April to December 10am to 4pm Littlehampton High Street

Lingfield Art Exhibition 2019 Painting

Sculpture

Littlehampton Town

Ceramics

28th October - 3rd November 2019 Lingfield and Dormansland Community Centre High Street, Lingfield, RH7 6AB

Free entry to exhibition Monday to Saturday 10am until 6pm Sunday 10am until 4pm

ARTISAN

MARKET CELEBRATING DIVERSITY & COMMUNITY

arts & cra ts local produce unique gifts live music

Facebook “f” Logo

@LOCAARTS

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f” Logo

CMYK / .eps

LITTLEHAMPTON TOWN

ARTISAN MARKET

FOR STALL & EVENT INFO CALL

01903 722666

Further details are on the website hamp tle

Lit

n to

www.lingfieldart.org

Traders Partnership

Lit

n to

hamp tle

Traders Partnership

Jessops Farm Studios Christmas Art & Craft Fair FrI 15th/Sat 16th/Sun 17th/Mon 18th November

10.00 am - 5.00 pm Paintings Local Crafts Wrapping Paper

Affordable Art Browser Sale Cards

CHRISTMAS-THEMED THEMED WORKSHOPS Jessops Farm Studios, Tonbridge Road, Bough Beech, TN8 7AU For info call Cathy 01892 870067: cathy.bird1@btopenworld.com

20

cathy bird_26.indd 1

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

26/09/2019 23:01

spotlight on... the art of giving

Karin Moorhouse

CITY CITY SPACE SPACE

NEW PAINTINGS & PORTRAITS

SOUTHERN SOUTHERN CERAMIC CERAMIC GROUP GROUP

at The Arundel Studio Gallery part of the Winter Arundel Gallery Trail 29/11/19 - 08/12/19

Keith Keith Menear Menear Raku Raku Bottle Bottle

Over 500 pieces Over pieces by 500 50 potters bydisplay 50 potters on and on display and for sale! for sale!

23 NOVEMBER 2019 23 NOVEMBER 2019 - 19 JANUARY 2020 - 19 JANUARY 2020 Location: Winchester Discovery Centre, Jewry St, Winchester SO23 8SB Location: Winchester Discovery Centre, Jewry St, Winchester SO23 8SB Opening times: Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-3pm Opening times: Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-3pm hampshireculture.org.uk 01962 873610 hampshireculture.org.uk

01962 873610

FREE admission FREE admission

City Space is operated and funded by Hampshire Cultural Trust.

We are a registered charity (no.1158583) and company (no.08986225) in England and Wales.

City Space is operated and funded

by Hampshire Cultural Trust.

We are a registered charity (no.1158583) and company (no.08986225) in England and Wales.

paintings large and small

URSULA STONE artist

portraits painted from sittings and/or photos oil on canvas, charcoal/pencil on paper contact Karin to discuss a commission 07801 613334

and for more details of the Winter Gallery Trail visit www.karinmoorhouseart.com

life drawings & oil paintings studio@ursulastone.com www.ursulastone.com

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

21

spotlight on... the art of giving

V Pease Jewellery Vee’s jewellery can be seen at Falmer Christmas Fair, Falmer Village Hall, BN1 9PQ on 16th & 17th November, 10am to 4pm

BRINGING ARTISTS TOGETHER BRINGING ARTISTS TOGETHER

@The Makery @The Makery is a group of is12a group artists of & 12 artists & makers who makers who have come have come together to share together to share their exquisite their exquisite creations with creations with Guest Artists Guest Artists and a rehang andevery a rehang six weeks. every six weeks.

beautiful handcrafted silver jewellery from the heart of Sussex 07885 472366 | peasevm@gmail.com www.vpjewellery.co.uk 22

The Makery, Unit 7, The Makery, Unit 7,Centre, The Enterprise Shopping The Enterprise Shopping Centre, Eastbourne, BN21 1BD. Eastbourne, BN21 1BD. Email: info@themakery.me.uk Email: info@themakery.me.uk www.themakery.me.uk www.themakery.me.uk

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

V Pease HP portrait iss26.indd 1

06/10/2019 17:27

spotlight on... the art of giving contemporary gallery space between city and sea showcasing original work by local artists After a wonderful summer of coastal scenes our winter series of exhibitions offer visitors a mix of photography, fine art and works in glass, ceramics, pewter and silverware ideal for gifts

GIFT VOUCHERS Know a creative person who would like to develop their ideas and skills?

Stuck for what to give someone creative for Christmas or for their birthday?

Whatever your budget, we sell Gift Vouchers to be used for any of our wide range of courses and welcome people of all levels of experience

Shazia Mahmood: Oil paintings

Fleur Grenier: Pewterware

Amy Lague: Acrylics

Philip Hood: Watercolour

Also on display at all times is a selection of paintings | prints ceramics | enamels | jewellery | glassware | cards & much more Rookwood Road, West Wittering, PO20 8LT | 01243 512218 for opening times & info: www.thelittleartgallery.online

KENT KENT PAINTERS PAINTERS GROUP GROUP 2019 2019 29TH 29TH ANNUAL ANNUAL ART ART EXHIBITION EXHIBITION & & SALE SALE

Being creative is good for the soul! Set them on the road to the enjoyment of art with a Sussex Sculpture Gift Voucher

SEVENOAKS SEVENOAKS SCHOOL SCHOOL TN13 TN13 1HU 1HU

FRIDAY FRIDAY

25th 25th OCTOBER OCTOBER

6.30 6.30 –– 9pm 9pm Opening Opening drinks drinks party party with with the the artists artists All All welcome welcome

SATURDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY SUNDAY

26th 26th OCTOBER OCTOBER 27th 27th OCTOBER OCTOBER 10.00am 10.00am –– 4pm 4pm Exhibition Exhibition & & sale sale –– including including unframed unframed work work Lunch Lunch & & refreshments refreshments available available

All All proceeds proceeds go go directly directly to to mental mental health health and and learning-disability learning-disability charities charities in in Kent: Kent: MENCAP, MacINTYRE MacINTYRE & & RETHINK RETHINK MENCAP,

sussexsculpture@btinternet.com 07765 892864 / 01403 786224

www.sussexsculpture.co.uk

SPONSORED SPONSORED BY BY

w ww ww w .. k ke en n tt p pa a ii n n tt e e rr ss g g rr o ou up p .. cc o o .. u uk k

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

23

spotlight on... the art of giving

Montague Gallery

ART CRANBROOK SHOW Thursday 7 NOVEMBER • 10 - 5 Friday 8 • 10 - 7 & Saturday 9 • 10 - 5

A gallery run by artists offering affordable, accessible, original work by forty local artists and makers

Montague Quarter, Liverpool Road, Worthing, BN11 1YJ

VESTRY HALL • Cranbrook • Kent • TN17 3HA

www.montaguegallery.co.uk

www.cranbrookartshow.org.uk

COLONNADE HOUSE

Pier Road Coffee and Art Littlehampton gallery New art every month from local artists Regular art courses run by professional artists/teachers

Serving Lavazzo coffee and delicious cakes 1-2 Pier Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5BA Open 6 days a week (except Monday) www.facebook.com/pierroadcoffeeart 24

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

fine art jewellery glass ceramics Beautiful work - Expertly made

T

O

N

B

R

I

D

G

E

spotlight on... the art of giving

First Saturday of each month Meet the artists 2-4pm

Open Tue-Sat 10.30-5.00 01732 365924 167 High Street, Tonbridge, TN9 1BX www.artspringgallery.co.uk Social Media @artspringallery

ingÊnu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

25

spotlight on... the art of giving

Beautiful gifts and fabulous artworks

GalleryBN5 is an artist run gallery in Henfield High Street, offering handmade affordable art.

We have great selection of original work including paintings, jewellery, ceramics, fused glass, turned wood & cards. Work changes each month, so there is always something new to see.

High Street, Henfield Open Tues-Sat 9.30-4.30pm

www.gallerybn5.co.uk

Work by local artists and makers

Winter Open Studio Weekends 9/10th & 16/17th November 11am-4pm 26

Stable Studio Hammes Farm Steyning BN44 3DA

ingÊnu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving

Showcasing the stunning pastel work of Peter Norton

Midhurst Gallery_26.indd 1

06/10/2019 18:30

Bespoke Silver Jewellery

handmade by Henfield silversmith Alison Crowe I work with silver and gemstones to create unique pieces of jewellery and am always pleased to discuss design ideas.

www.facebook.com/ ariandesigner @ariansilverdesigns

Tel: 01273 492932 or 07977 095549 Email: ariansilverdesigns@gmail.com Web: www.ariansilverdesigns.co.uk

ingÊnu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

27

spotlight on... the art of giving

5-17 Nov, 10-5pm Colonnade House Worthing 9 & 10 November INK, PAPER + PRINT Cambridge December Pop up shop @ Colonnade House Seasonal Workshop and Courses www.sussexartandprintmaking.co.uk Email sussexprintmakers@gmail.com

Rhubarb Chairs

Suzanne Hennegrave

Keith Vaughan

Anthony Ellis

The Coach House, High Street, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5TD Tel: 01323 871402 Mob: 07970 549873 info@newart-gallery.co.uk www.newart-gallery.co.uk Opening Times: Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 5 pm 28

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving

GALLERY SHOP STUDIO EXHIBITIONS W OR KSHOPS

G A L L E RY SHOP STUDIO EXHIBITIONS

Art from the Heart

fine art - jewellery sculpture - textiles ceramics - glass and so much more...

27 Brunswick Road, Shoreham by Sea BN43 5WA Just South of the Station!

Celebrating and retailing work from local artists and skilled makers ~ paintings, bespoke silver jewellery, art materials, cards and gift items Artologie, 18 High Street, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath RH17 5JU • 01444 708380 • www.artologie.co.uk

www.shorehamgallery.co.uk Tel: 01273 272063 Open 7 days a week

Picture Framing Service now Available

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

29

spotlight on... the art of giving

CafÉ Artisan

Gallery

As well as holding regular music events, Café Artisan is now the shop window for West Street Loft Christmas Open Studios artists, with ongoing exhibitions Saturday 14th December through the autumn.

Find us on Facebook Look for Café Artisan on Instagram @weststreetloftstudios Facebook and TripAdvisor

Pauline Ford

Jo Delafons

30

café artisan Relax in Shoreham-by Sea’s lively, fully licenced café with delicious freshly prepared, locally sourced food with the accent on healthy.

Vegetarian, vegan and ‘free-from’ options available. @artisancafeshoreham

Louise Durham

Angela Edwards

“First visit and it certainly won’t be our last. Lovely friendly staff, varied menu and food was absolutely delicious. Can’t recommend highly enough”

West Street Loft, West Street, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 6DA | www.weststreetloft.co.uk Artisan, 2 Tarmount Lane, BN43 6DA | 07970 377046 ingénu/eCafé magazine – south downs and high Shoreham-by-Sea, weald : issue 26

spotlight on... the art of giving High Noon by Edith Pargh Barton

CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR 2019 horshamartistsopenstudios.co.uk OCTOBER 19/20 at PARKSIDE COUNCIL OFFICES

SCREENS

PRINTING

R E A D Y - M A D E A N D C U S T O M S C R E E N S, S Q U E E G E E S A N D I N K S

Personalise Christmas We can make a screen using your own seasonal design or you can choose from a large selection in our online library. There are plenty of non Christmas designs as well.

Check out the website today!

www.screens4printing.com ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

31

visual arts

Lindsey Pearson Watercolour Artist Lindsey works from her studio in Storrington and has been a member of Chalk Gallery in Lewes for almost four years.

Following a long, successful career in education and now retired, Lindsey pursues her ambition to paint and express her own creativity, having been a wholehearted supporter of the creative arts in education. Lindsey finally has the time and energy to follow her dream of becoming an artist specialising in watercolours.

Several tutor-lead holidays abroad helped provide the inspiration and skills necessary for en plein air painting and the techniques involved when using watercolour and she became hooked.

Inspiration for Lindsey’s work emanates from the sheer spontaneity and exuberance of painting and drawing with watercolour and earth inks. Their unpredictable nature and fabulous colours offer exciting challenges and opportunities to work 'wet in wet' with bold washes, energy and vibrancy. This is an exciting process and clearly shows in her atmospheric Venetian paintings and expressive semi-abstract landscapes.

Becoming a member of Chalk Gallery was a turning point she says, “I feel immensely proud and privileged to be a 'Chalkie'. It is a very special co-operative of

twenty-one artists which has thrived and continues to nurture artists within a mutually supportive purpose and ethos. I have developed a range of new skills and grown in both experience and confidence whilst taking on roles within the gallery business and Chalk provides opportunities to exhibit regularly in Lewes and other venues as well as the discipline of 6-weekly exhibitions which means new original work is required each time. Chalk has enabled me to really believe in myself in this new chapter of my life and I am extremely grateful for the friendships and professionalism of all associated with the gallery. There is always something going on including many social events and long may this continue to be the case!”

If you have a chance to visit the gallery, you’ll meet an artist on duty, see a great variety of beautiful work and receive a very warm welcome too so, do pop in! above: Lindsey Pearson, Glorious Sunset, watercolour and pencil; left: Lindsey Pearson, Morning Glory, watercolour & pencil

32

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

chalk gallery

visual arts

This Autumn Chalk Gallery features two artists and hosts an end of year party on Advent, Saturday 30th November from 2pm to 4pm to celebrate the season of giving and the expectation of good things.

To begin the season, Jane Bridger presents ‘Earthly Blings’ from 14th October to 4th November, her collection of beautiful ceramics inspired by ancient Persia, the Far East and the world around us. As a ceramicist with over 30 years of experience, Jane says “I have always been fascinated by different decorative techniques and glazes, which I make myself after much experimenting.” Jane warmly invites you to ‘Meet the Artist’ on Saturday 19th October 2pm to 4pm.

Please note the gallery is closed on Tuesday 5th November for Bonfire Night Celebrations in Lewes.

A new exhibition in the gallery from Tuesday 6th November brings Emily Stevens’ collection of paintings, sketches and drawings inspired by her time as Artist in Residence at Lewes’ Pells Pool until 24th November. A lover of light and colour, Emily expresses the feel of the water, outdoor swimming, and the sensation of tranquil relaxation in the sun and the rain by the water and she welcomes you to ‘Meet the Artist’ on Saturday 9th November 2pm to 4pm.

Chalk Gallery’s Christmas window is revealed on 25th November and the artists gladly invite you to join them on Saturday 30th November 2pm to 4pm for an end of year party with an Advent theme.

The Gallery closes for Christmas and the New Year holidays at 5pm on Sunday 22nd December and re-opens on Monday 6th January 2020.

For more information about the gallery, the artists and their work visit: www.chalkgallerylewes.co.uk Chalk Gallery, 4 North Street, Lewes, BN7 2PA. Open 7 days a week, 10am to 5pm from top: Emily Stevens Sitting in the Sun, acrylic on wood; Jane Bridger, Summer Clouds Moon Jar, ceramic; Lyndsey Smith, Westminster Abbey, watercolour and pen

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

33

visual arts

Artgenu/e

by Lesley Samms | Pure Fine Art

Sculpture is the art of the intelligence - Pablo Picasso

Sculpture is one of the oldest of all art forms. It is often referred to as one of the plastic arts, because it involves physical manipulation of a medium that can be carved or shaped.

Historically sculptors created their artwork by either carving or modelling, in stone, metal, ceramics, wood or other malleable materials. Contemporary sculptors however have pushed these boundaries to their limits and today artists have complete freedom over materials and process in the creation of their artwork, often now utilising found and/or synthetic materials in the process and construction.

This has resulted in the descriptive term assemblage becoming a recognised term in this context, used to describe a sculptural work that has been put together, or assembled, from diverse elements.

Artist Gavin Roweth employs stone carving in his

Gavin Roweth

34

practice. Many examples of Gavin’s work can now be seen in and around historic Battle, as part of the Heritage Art Trail. These sculptures tell stories from the past, gathered as part of a community project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and linked to the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings in 2016. For more information and trail guides, please visit the Almonry or Battle Museum of Local History, High Street, Battle.

Trained at Ravensbourne and Chelsea art colleges, Gavin has been carving full time for the last decade, creating many bespoke commissioned pieces including headstones, memorial plaques and garden sculptures, alongside his fine art practice. His fine art sculpture is guided by the essence of the material he uses, principally Portland Limestone. Carving directly into the stone, Gavin creates simple and complex abstract forms designed around the intrinsic nature of the material. The marks where life on the planet have left fossils embedded in the stone often become essential parts of the finished piece. He looks to create a harmony between stone and sculptor where texture and form lead to the finished piece.

Gavin owns WING Art Gallery in Wadhurst were his artwork can be viewed and commissioned. He also regularly exhibits at the PURE Autumn Art Fair, which takes place annually in October at the PowderMills Hotel, Battle.

Modelling is an additive process, which means rather than scraping a material away as in carving, the artist works with a soft material, normally clay, wax, plaster or plastercine to build up a shape or form. Casting involves making a mould from the final shape or form and then pouring a liquid material, such as molten metal, plastic (resin), rubber or fibreglass into the mould.

19th century French sculptor Rodin expected that his hand-sculpted models would be cast into bronze many times. It was not unusual for him to have several different foundries cast the same work over the span of his life, and since his death the French government has routinely issued new editions of his works.

Artists who utilise modelling and casting in their practice include well-known names such as Joan Miro and Antony Gormley, who famously utilises his own body as the starting point.

Other artists who use model and cast methods include Jonathan Hateley and Svetlana K-Lié, both of whom have exhibited frequently as part of the Battle Festival of Arts and Music, which takes place annually in October.

Born in the West Midlands and now

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

visual arts

Jonathan Hateley, All-from-one

living and working from his studio in Kent, Jonathan Hateley’s sculpture is exhibited widely, both in the UK and internationally.

Having created props for the musical 'The Phantom of the Opera' and the English National Opera, Jonathan spent many years sculpting for models and effects in TV and film and illustrating children's books. In 2003 he began creating his own work, thus turning his passion into a career.

All aspects of the natural world inspire Jonathan.

Working initially in clay, he enjoys the challenge of creating from both the real and imagined. Through his close observation and manipulation of materials, Jonathan is able to create detail and texture or surface bas-relief on his sculpture, which are cast in resin or bronze before being hand finished and painted to accentuate the relief.

Svetlana K-Lié is a Russian artist living and working in Brighton. Born in Moscow where she graduated with a MA from the faculty of applied arts completed by additional studies at the famous I.I. Nivinsky Etching Art Studio and Babushkinski Ceramic Studio, she works with a broad range of materials and techniques. Her practice includes sculpture, photography, printmaking and drawing.

Gavin, Jonathan and Svetlana will all be exhibiting as part of the PURE Autumn Art Fair 10th Anniversary exhibition at the PowderMills Hotel, Battle, 5–13 October. www.pureartsgroup.co.uk for further details.

Svetlana K-Lie, Last Supper ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

35

visual arts

PURE Autumn Art Fair 10th Anniversary Exhibition Workshops - Talks - Events

5 - 13 October 2019 Open daily 11am - 6pm

PowderMills Hotel Battle TN33 0SP 36

BATTLE FESTIVAL OF ARTS & MUSIC pureartsgroup.co.uk powdermillshotel.com | battlefestival.co.uk ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

visual arts

David Nash: 200 Seasons at Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne

This is one of the most ambitious exhibitions of David Nash’s work presented in England. The exhibition, running until 2nd February 2020, is a major survey of Nash’s career from the late 1960s to the present day, exploring his unique contribution to British sculpture and the international Land Art movement.

200 Seasons also marks one of the major moments in Towner’s programme of events and exhibitions celebrating ten years in the gallery’s current building.

The exhibition reflects the artist’s long relationship with Wales, in particular Capel Rhiw, Blaenau Ffestiniog, his home and studio for over half a century.

200 Seasons, which includes new work, will be installed across Towner’s four major gallery spaces and will feature key sculptures, always retaining his trademark reference to the forms of the original tree and the unique qualities of the chosen material.

“I was born in the South East but have lived at Capel Rhiw, an old Methodist chapel in Blaenau Ffestiniog, since the 1960s" said Nash. "Many of my sculptures have been made in Sussex where much of the wood I use is sourced. I have watched Towner grow since the 1980s and it is a great pleasure to bring the Capel Rhiw Collection to this magnificent gallery.” www.townereastbourne.org pictured: David Nash charring small sculpture.

Photo © Jonty Wilde courtesy David Nash

Worthing Artists Open Houses Summer 2020 may seem a long way off, but the organising team for ‘Worthing Artists Open Houses’ is already in action.

Next year’s art trail takes place over three weekends, 13/14th, 20th/21st, and 27/28th June.

There are well over 50 venues on the trail each year, exhibiting the work over 250 artists. The organising team, who have guided the event for the last five years, work hard to maintain the community feel, and celebrate the diversity of work produced by local artists.

This means that venues as different as studios, workshops, houses and flats, restaurants and schools can all be included; every venue offers a unique setting for art and craft, as well as opportunities to exhibit for young artists, established professionals, and people discovering and rediscovering creative talents and skills at any age.

The range of participating artists is wide, and the variety of work on show is remarkable. The team is always ready

to welcome new venues and new artists to enrich the event and continue to build the reputation of Worthing Artists Open Houses as the art trail with a difference. Visit worthingartistsopenhouses.com.

WAOH 2019 artist and venue host, Russ Iden

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

37

visual arts

Roger Dean, YES Relayer album cover

ROGER DEAN ‘The Gates of Delirium’ Exhibition at Trading Boundaries 1st November to 8th December Internationally acclaimed Lewes-based artist and designer Roger Dean is responsible for some of the most memorable images over the past five decades.

His paintings for album covers, as well as logos for Virgin Records, Tetris and bands such as Yes and Asia, have given him a worldwide following.

As Roger’s official UK gallery, Trading Boundaries is delighted to announce this 2019 exhibition.

Celebrating the 45th anniversary of the release of the

Yes album ‘Relayer’, a new limited edition fine art silkscreen print inspired by the iconic album cover painting created by Roger is being launched. The exhibition title is a nod to the track ‘The Gates of Delirium’ that, in true Prog Rock style, takes up one side of the record!

This is a rare chance to view Roger’s work and the exhibition will feature original paintings including ‘Inland Sea II’ used on the latest Yes Live album cover, as well as watercolours and sketches.

There are a number of events running throughout the exhibition, go to Trading Boundaries website for details, entry is free.

Trading Boundaries, Sheffield Green, nr Fletching, East Sussex TN22 3RB. For further information visit www.tradingboundaries.com or www.rogerdean.com.

Littlehampton OPEN ‘The Sea’ Running until Friday 13th December

Littlehampton Museum’s hugely popular OPEN exhibition returns for its 8th year, with fantastic artwork from all over Sussex filling the Hearne Gallery until Christmas.

This year for the first time, we asked our visitors to choose the theme, and after hundreds of votes ‘The Sea’ proved to be the most popular. As ever, people of every age, ability or artistic medium were invited to create artwork and have the chance to be included in the final display, and the result is a jam-packed feast for the eyes!

Whether you enjoy paintings, photography, prints, sculpture or textiles, there is surely to be something to make you smile.

“It’s wonderful to see the OPEN back for another year” says Cllr Billy Blanchard-Cooper. “It is such a great opportunity to celebrate incredible artwork by local artists, and on a subject so close to all locals’ hearts.” www.littlehamptonmuseum.co.uk.

38

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

visual arts in the ‘Little Wing’ series and ‘Eden’ a new painting that was still being framed as the cards were printed.

“I’ve always been very wary about the mass reproduction of my work,” said Catriona, “I wanted to avoid appearing on place mats and tea towels and any calendars that have featured my paintings have been for charity. It’s also important that my work is reproduced to the highest standard and Bourne Art Cards have achieved that. I’m looking forward to seeing the series grow.”

You can find out more about Catriona Millar’s new art cards at catrionamillar.com. pictured left: Eden below: Bluebird

Catriona Millar is one of Scotland’s most popular artists and her work is collected around the world. Just months after her 2006 sell out degree show Catriona’s stunning paintings were published as prints and art cards.

Now a new large format, high quality series of cards has just been launched published by Bourne Art Cards.

Catriona Millar New Art Card Series

The first set of 14.8cm square cards feature six of Catriona’s paintings charting her development from 2007 to 2019. All the cards are beautifully reproduced on 400gsm card and come with a recycled brown Kraft envelope wrapped in cello.

The collection has been personally signed off by Catriona and it wouldn’t be complete without the original Little Wing from 2007, probably Catriona’s most iconic image. Recently the painting was included in a German schools’ text book about the history of art.

There are also recent paintings ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

39

visual arts

© roger dean

the gates of delirium exhibition 2019

2020

1st November - 8th December at trading boundaries

THREE SUMMER WEEKENDS

a rare opportunity to view many original iconic paintings, drawings & sketches,

13/14 JUNE 20/21 JUNE 27/28 JUNE

many of which are on public display for the first time. trading boundaries sheffield green, east sussex tn22 3rb

01825 790200 tradingboundaries.com

2020 Registration now open, visit worthingartistsopenhouses.com

rogerdean.com 40

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

visual arts

Towner Art Gallery David Nash 200 Seasons 29 September 2019 – 2 February 2020

Devonshire Park, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ www.townereastbourne.org.uk @townergallery #200Seasons #EastbourneAlive

David Nash, Nature to Nature, 1985. © Jonty Wilde, courtesy David Nash. Tate Collection

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

41

visual arts

Artists

Difference

making a

An Art Fair in a gallery, is an exciting way of being ‘Different’.

guy po adverto

The ‘Different Art Project’ is designed to show artwork which is stimulating and confrontational and uses your optical senses and, in some cases, aural senses to create an interaction with the subject matter.

Top: Pulp Fiction by Brett Neal Right: Painting Nymans by Elaine Foster-Gandy

Our 2019 show will be hosted at Gallery Different in Fitzrovia, London.

We will be following in the creative footsteps of the Pre Raphaelites (who used to meet in the same street), who like our collection of artists were driven to demonstrate art can be direct and uncomplicated and yet still produce thought provoking and significant results.

Our charity partner.. Sports Traider and drinks partner Matchmakers, Gin and Juice crafted cocktails, bring celebrity and a touch of glamour to the event.

42

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

visual arts

ortelli orial!

Exhibiting Artists include: Boyana Aleksova • Lucy Ames Caroline Anderson • Bethan Archer Amanda Averillo • Silvia Boev Nichola Campbell • Richard H Chapman Nicola Colbran • Sue Davis • Joe Devanny Bushra Fakhoury • Elaine Foster-Gandey Mel Fraser • Annie Graham Nick Hebditch • Robin Leonard Lucianne Lassalle • Brett Neal Kate Newington • Stephen Page Diana Poliak • Ryan Poliak • Guy Portelli Shelley Rose • Neal Scrase • Keith Siddle Lesley Taylor • Micky Voice Patricia Volk • Mark Welland Katie Whitbread • Claudia Wiegand Chas Williams

Top: Factory Worker by Chas Williams Right: Circular Spirit by Neal Scrase

Different Art Fair 14 Percy Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1DR 25th – 29th October 2019 Open to Public from 11am – 8pm (including the weekend)

 www.differentartfair.co.uk  events@internationalartfair.co.uk  @internationalartfairkent  differentartfair

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

43

theatres Winter season 2019 at

Chichester Festival Theatre and a brand new venue is added

A

brand new venue for Chichester, featuring an eclectic mix of events – from cabaret and music to circus and comedy – the Chichester Spiegeltent promises something completely fresh and contemporary.

Kick back with friends when it gets dark with a festival atmosphere, bar and late-night events. During the day, bring the kids for beatboxing adventures, comedy and crafts. The Spiegeltent is situated on the edge of Oaklands Park, right by the Festival Theatre.

Winter brings a sparkling selection of touring productions to the main theatre; fascinating dramas, captivating musicals and family shows, and a kaleidoscope of dance, music and comedy.

The musical sensation Six and the hit comedy Calendar Girls The Musical are guaranteed to lift the roof off the Festival Theatre, while star-studded drama arrives with Prism, My Cousin Rachel and The Lovely Bones. The inventive company Told by an Idiot visit Chichester for the first time with their new piece about Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel, while the Olivier Award-winning production A Monster Calls

44

launches a national tour at the Festival Theatre.

There’s a great array of comedy, dance, music and poetry nights, ranging from I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue to Gandini Juggling and The Bluejays to the BBC Concert Orchestra. Seasonal favourites the Christmas Concerts and Moscow City Ballet also return. There’s also plenty of entertainment for families and youngsters, including The Gruffalo and Chichester Festival Youth Theatre’s The Wizard of Oz for Christmas. Visit www.cft.org.uk for full information about all performances.

Three varied productions at

Worthing Theatres this autumn

F

riday 8th and Saturday 9th of November sees the award-winning Proteus Theatre Company at the Connaught Theatre performing their modern take on Shakespeare’s Macbeth, set against the backdrop of the ‘greed is good’ culture of 1980s Britain.

This is London, October 1987. This is a tale of greed, betrayal and murder. On the trading floor, success is all and ruthless ambition is rewarded. The

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

performing arts only problem is, how do you control it before it consumes you? This new production features movement from George Mann of Ad Infinitum and is set to a pulsing soundtrack of 80s electro hits, synth-inspired modern classics and interwoven with originally composed music.

Frontman of 90s indie band The Seahorses, Chris Helme visits the Connaught Studio on 14th November.

Chris is now producing acclaimed folk-infused tracks as a solo artist, including a new album readying for release in summer 2020.

His enviable back catalogue includes Britpop classics such as ‘Love is the Law’ and ‘Blinded by the Sun’, but beyond these well-loved indie hits he has matured into a songwriter of regard for noir-tinged folk gems blistering with emotion, with lyrics poetically mixing the light with the dark.

On 23rd November the Russian National Ballet brings Swan Lake to the Connaught stage. Following sell-out performances of Nutcracker last year, Russian National Ballet returns to the UK with the most famous ballet of all time. Swan Lake is one of Tchaikovsky’s best works, featuring some of ballet’s most memorable music and breathtaking dance.

It is the compelling legend of a tragic romance in which a princess, Odette, is turned into a swan by

an evil curse. Prince Siegfried chances upon a flock of swans while out hunting. When one of the swans turns into a beautiful young woman he is instantly captivated – will his love prove strong enough to break the evil spell that she is under? Swan Lake is full of mystery and romance and has captured the imagination of generations over the years and it continues to attract worldwide audiences, young and old.

Visit worthingtheatres.co.uk for all the information.

opposite page: Black Cat Cabaret, Salon Des Artistes at Chichester Spiegeltent; above: Chris Helme: below: Proteus Theatre, Macbeth

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

45

performing arts

The Capitol, Horsham Christmas all wrapped up!

N

ot one, not two, but three fantastic festive shows are on offer this Christmas at The Capitol, Horsham! First up, there’s festive family fun with Peter Pan – the immortal tale of the boy who never grew up is given a brand new pantomime treatment with an injection of pop and musical theatre songs, colourful sets and costumes, corny and clever gags and thoroughly family friendly entertainment. The show runs from Friday 13th December to Sunday 5th January.

Not a panto fan? No problem – why not try the brand-new adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale A Christmas Carol in the intimate setting of The Capitol Studio. Acclaimed character actors Jack Lane and David Benson play every cherished character in the story, showing Ebenezer Scrooges’ path to redemption, from greed and selfishness to one of compassion and humanity. This production runs from Saturday 14th to Tuesday 24th December, with a preview performance on Friday 13th December.

Finally, if you are looking to entertain little ones this Christmas, The Ho Ho Ho Christmas Show is the perfect solution. Taking place in Horsham Park Barn, just opposite The Capitol, this immersive production takes you into Santa’s Workshop to meet Steve the Elf, as he is preparing all the presents. With plenty of audience engagement and a running time of just

Samantha Womack stars in The Girl On The Train

under 60 minutes, it is the perfect way to introduce theatre to your littlest ones! The performance opens on Saturday 7th December with performances until Christmas Eve, and is recommended for ages 3+ For tickets visit www.thecapitolhorsham.com or contact The Capitol Box Office on 01403 750220.

The Girl on The Train arrives at

Eastbourne’s Devonshire Park Theatre Monday 4th November to Saturday 9th November

P

aula Hawkins' debut novel The Girl on the Train sold over twenty million copies worldwide and I really liked the film version of the book starring Emily Blunt. I’m fascinated to see how the story is transferred to the stage, with Samantha Womack, fresh from her film roles in the Kingsman series, starring as Rachel Watson, a woman who longs for a different life.

Her only escape is the perfect couple she watches through the train window every day, happy and in love. Or so it appears. When Rachel learns that the woman she’s been secretly watching has suddenly disappeared, she finds herself as a witness and even a suspect in a thrilling mystery in which she will face bigger revelations than she could ever have anticipated.

Visit www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk for full information of what’s on at the theatres.

David Benson (l) and Jack Lane (r) in A Christmas Carol

46

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

performing arts

A cavalcade of events taking place this autumn at

The Old Market, Hove

T

1927, photo by Olga Tabatskaya

The Studio at the Hawth, Crawley Some great gigs this autumn

T

he Studio at the Hawth in Crawley is a relatively intimate theatre setting within the main theatre building which hosts some really interesting gigs of various genres such as Blues, Americana, Country and more. I’ve picked out two examples from this autumn, but there are plenty more to see. If you are a fan of rock or more acoustic offerings, it is well worth checking the Hawth’s varied gig list.

I was/am a great fan of Kate Bush’s music, she being such an innovative and influential writer. And on Thursday 28th November, The KT Bush Band are performing. This is far from a ‘tribute’ act as in 1977 her original band was formed with Kate on vocals, Brian Bath on guitar, Del Palmer on Bass and Vic King on drums. Now back playing live again, Brian and Vic have put together a new line up with SallieAnne Hurst on vocals, Emily Francis on keyboards and Steve Bevan on bass to perform a 2-hour show featuring classic Kate album tracks and hit songs.

As live Kate concerts are so very rare, this is a chance to hear live the best of her back catalogue.

Friday 13th December sees Spikedrivers arrive, in association with Crawley Blues Club. One of the most original, innovative and exciting bands around, their combination of gutsy slide guitar, rock-solid bass, infectious grooves and highly distinctive vocals, creates a sound that is uniquely their own. A journey, from southern juke-joints and lazy front porches to the huge open spaces of dust bowls and railroad tracks disappearing into the distance.

Visit www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/The-Hawth for full information about what’s on at the Studio and also the main theatre.

he highlight of the season at The Old Market (TOM) is the enigmatic theatre company 1927, who are presenting their brand-new show Roots for its South England Premiere (3rd to 18th January).

The show is a collection of lesser-known folktales (a malignant mosaic of morbid mysteries, if you will), all brought to life in the company’s unique style that combines theatre, animation and live music.

If you’re looking to do something different this Halloween, then be sure to check out The Haunted Ballroom (31st October to 1st November). Join awardwinning London cabaret royalty Black Cat Cabaret for a night for spooky fun and games, with performances from the likes of cult-festival heroes Tankus the Henge and Chrisalys, the fire-breathing pig, plus more! There’s also the stunning 360-degree theatre show Youthquake (5th to 6th November) that looks at how young people can cause a revolution.

There are also amazing films as part of TOM’s Film Club including genre-defying horror-musical hybrid The Lure (18th November), comedy from American impressionist Christina Bianco (18th October), a masterclass in Spoken Word performance from James Rowland in Revelations (15th October) and much more.

Visit theoldmarket.com for all the latest updates.

Sallie-Anne Hurst

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

47

performing arts The Clay Connection presents

SITES OF BELONGING

a vivid and visceral experience of dance, film and live music

15th January 2020 Minerva Theatre at Chichester Festival Theatre Tickets & info: 01243 781312 | cft.org.uk

WHAT’S ON AT THE CAPITOL!

A CHRISTMAS CAROL PETER PAN

FRIDAY 13 DECEMBER 2019 – SUNDAY 5 JANUARY 2020 Fly away to Neverland this Christmas with our festive family pantomime!

IN THE STUDIO SATURDAY 14 – TUESDAY 24 DECEMBER 2019

Dickens’ classic festive tale takes to the stage, as you’ve never seen it before!

THE HO HO HO! CHRISTMAS SHOW IN HORSHAM PARK BARN SATURDAY 7 – TUESDAY 24 DECEMBER

Box Office 01403 750220 www.thecapitolhorsham.com 48

Ingenue advert Christmas 2019.indd 1

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

05/09/2019 13:16:14

performing arts

INXS

This autumn at

Uckfield Picture House

U

ckfield Picture House has much to entertain you throughout the coming darker months. The new live Arts on Screen seasons from The Royal Opera House, Metropolitan Opera and The Bolshoi Ballet start in October. There are some great new Exhibition on Screen films from Leonardo to Lucian Freud plus a season new to The Picture House, The Great Composers. There are also many one night events including Lionel Richie at Glastonbury and INXS: Live Baby Live plus comedy from Billy Connolly: The Sex Life of Bandages.

Cream Tea Classics and Dementia Friendly Films are back this autumn including Oklahoma! – not forgetting a whole raft of new releases, notably Judy with Renee Zellweger and The Good Liar starring Helen Mirren and Ian McKellen. And don’t forget the great new autumn menu at the Picture House Restaurant; people are already booking for Christmas and New Year!

Visit www.picturehouseuckfield.com for all the information on the cinema and restaurant.

public displays of fervent loyalty and devotional behaviour. Their messages channel emotions and offer individuals a site of belonging. Yet what lies beneath the desire to commit? the urgency to attach? the need to belong?

Sites of Belonging will take a contemporary look at the human desire to belong, through the classical Indian dance form Bharata Natyam. The production will provoke the individual and challenge the masses, by offering visceral readings of the devotee.

It will weave classical elements of Bharata Natyam and live Carnatic vocals together with film. Presented by a cast of four performers, the production will challenge physical perceptions, activate emotional responses and provoke intellectual contemplation of prevailing issues at a fragile moment in time. A must for audiences who care (advised for 11years+).

Sites of Belonging is supported by Arts Council England, Chichester Festival Theatre and Kala Sangam.

Vidya Thirunarayan, the artistic director of Clay Connection is an Indian classical dancer and ceramicist with over 20 years of professional experience. She has toured internationally as a performer and in recent years has been working with the eminent theatre director Tim Supple (RSA and National Theatre) researching a cutting-edge performance vocabulary integrating her two passions, dance and clay. Her work has been featured in Craft Council’s recent journal, Crafts and her film Lives of Clay is part of their craft film festival that is currently touring internationally. cft.org.uk

The Clay Connection presents

Sites of Belonging

W

ith its premiere at Chichester Festival Theatre in January, Sites of Belonging will probe basic human needs to attach, commit and belong, by exploring the Indian concept of Bhakti, a social revolution.

The human compulsion to connect with something greater than the individual, can be found in examples from Indian poetics to nationalist politics.

Immersive faith in persuasive eloquence manifests through personalities such as the 18th century Indian poet, Thyagaraja or the 21st Century US President, Trump. Their compelling rhetoric elevates the human spirit with convincing messages, generating

Vidya Thirunarayan

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

49

performing arts

VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET presents two classic ballets

The Nutcracker Clair Hall, Haywards Heath Friday 11th October, 7.30pm Box Office: 01444 455440

Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone Sunday 10th November, 2.00pm Box Office: 01622 758611

Medina Theatre, Newport, Isle of Wight Wednesday 11th December, 7.00pm Box Office: 01983 823884

Snow White Chequer Mead Theatre, East Grinstead

Wednesday 16th October, 2.30pm & 7.00pm Box Office: 01342 302000

Stag Community Arts Centre, Sevenoaks Tuesday 22nd October, 7.30pm Box Office: 01732 450175

White Rock Theatre, Hastings Thursday 7th November, 7.30pm Box Office: 01424 462288

The Lights, Andover

Saturday 14th December, 2.00pm & 7.00pm Box Office: 01264 368368 For further dates and venues throughout the rest of the UK visit www.viennafestivalballet.com

“The entire show was captivating from start to finish” – Welwyn Hatfield Times

50

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

performing arts

Vienna Festival Ballet This vibrant young company tours classic ballets The Nutcracker and Snow White this autumn.

Be swept away on a magical adventure in one of the most famous classical ballets of all time – The Nutcracker. Set to Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score, the tale of The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara and her enchanted nutcracker doll. See Clara and the Nutcracker combat the Mouse King, and join the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier on a wonderful journey to a kingdom made entirely of sweets.

An unmissable production of Snow White, where world class choreography propels this timeless fairytale and answers the question who is the fairest one of all? Based on the traditional Grimm brothers’ story, this ballet incorporates all the important elements – a beautiful girl, an enchanted mirror, a poisoned apple. Hip-hopping dwarves help Snow White find her Prince Charming.

Whether you are a ballet buff or an interested observer, make a point of booking tickets to experience the vitality of Vienna Festival Ballet.

Visit www.viennafestivalballet.com for further information. pictured right: Clara & Nutcracker

01825 764909 www.picturehouseuckfield.com

LOVE FILM. LOVE FOOD. LOVE CULTURE.

Gauguin from the National Gallery (PG) - 15th October

Leonardo: The Works (PG) - 29th October

FILM | ARTS ON SCREEN | FOOD | EVENTS | PRIVATE HIRE | WEDDINGS High Street, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 1AS ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

51

performing arts

BOX OFFICE 01293 553636 hawth.co.uk Wed 9 October 8pm

Tue 22-Sat 26 October

SH*T FACED SHAKESPEARE

ANNIE

A Midsummer Night’s Dream performed by the hilarious, award-winning company including one cast member whose had a little too much!

Fri 11 October 7.30pm

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Celebrating Italy’s rich tradition of classical music with works by Mozart, Martucci, Bruch and Mendelssohn Sat 12 October 11am & 2pm (Studio)

PEACE AT LAST

Olivier Award-winning OperaUpClose present a new opera for 3-5 year olds Sat 12 October 7.30pm

RUBY WAX

Ruby’s new show based on her book How To Be Human Mon 14 & Tue 15 October 7.30pm

RUSSIAN STATE BALLET

with full orchestra performing The Nutcracker (Mon) and Swan Lake (Tue) Tue 15 October 7.45pm (Studio)

GUTTED

Lesley Joseph stars in the smash-hit musical direct from the West End Fri 1 November

SINg-A-LONG-A THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (2pm) BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY (7.30pm)

Grab the fancy dress and come along to join in with your favorites Mon 11 November 7.30pm

NEIL OLIVER

An evening with the historian and Coast presenter Wed 20 November 7.30pm

beyond the barricade

Past Les Mis performers with a night of musical theatre in concert Thu 21 November 7.30pm

PAM AYRES

An evening of poetry and fun with the national treasure Fri 6 December - Sun 5 January

dick whittington

Black comedy exploring the lives of three women working in a fish factory in ‘80s Dublin

Charlie Brooks (EastEnders) and Gemma Hunt (Swashbuckle) star in the hilarious, fun-packed pantomime

Thu 17 October 7.30pm

Mon 13 & Tue 14 January 7.30pm

JONATHAN PIE

buddy the musical

The fictional journalist returns to berate those in power Fri 18 October 8pm

STEWART FRANCIS

On his ‘Into The Punset’ farewell tour Sat 19 October 7.30pm

THE HISTORY OF ROCK

Celebrating the golden age of rock Led Zeppelin, Cream, AC/DC, Queen and more

The multi-award winning West End show on its 30th anniversary tour Mon 20 & Tue 21 January 7.30pm

ST PETERSBURG CLASSIC BALLET

Swan Lake (Mon) Sleeping Beauty (Tue) Tue 28 January 7.30pm

madama butterfly

The award-winning Ellen Kent production with full orchestra

52

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

performing arts

The Russian State Ballet & Opera House this autumn/winter

The Russian State Ballet and Opera House brings us three classic ballets this season

Coastal Events proudly presents

Swan Lake – a timeless ballet with exquisite dancing This is the compelling legend of a tragic romance in which a princess, Odette, is turned into a swan by an evil curse. Prince Siegfried chances upon a flock of swans while out hunting. When one of the swans turns into a beautiful young woman he is instantly captivated – will his love prove strong enough to break the evil spell that she is under?

The Nutcracker – A lavish ballet of the festive season Snow flurries, sweets, princes, magic and love are just some of the elements that will be brought together by this renowned Russian company. A highly accessible ballet, directed and choreographed by the former award-winning Bolshoi Ballet Soloist, Konstantin Uralsky.

George Hinchliffe’s Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

11th December, De La Warr Pavilion Bexhill-on-Sea The original ukulele orchestra, the group that made the ukulele cool!

From the North Pole to Sydney Opera House the Ukes tour planet Earth with their legendary live shows that plunder all genres of music from Wagner to Nirvana with wit and sheer plucking brilliance.

If you have never seen this amazing team of musicians, you can’t miss this! And if you even vaguely know how to play the ukulele, watch the tutorials online, learn the parts and join in live!

Visit www.coastaleventsltd.com or www.dlwp.com for further information.

Don Quixote – a wonderfully entertaining ballet Don Quixote delights in stories of brave Knights, fabulous giants and other fantastical creatures. But most of all, he dreams of his beloved Dulcinea, a woman that he believes to be so lovely and noble that she must be divine. Love, duels and spectacular choreography are mixed with a dash of Spanish passion in this most beautiful and moving ballet.

All performances feature a live orchestra, adding that extra dimension to the evening.

For more information about the company and for dates and venues visit www.russian-state-ballet.co.uk. pictured top: Swan Lake; right: George Hinchliffe's Ukuklele orchestra of Great Britan ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

53

performing arts

2019/2020 Highlights

Artistic Director: Marcio da Silva

Your Philharmonic

11th Oct 7:30pm St Mary in the Castle, Hastings HASTINGS PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Additional dates:

Fumiya Koido Piano Marcio da Silva Conductor

1st Dec 7pm St Clement’s Church Advent Cantatas Bach, Schütz, Telemann, Buxtehude

Piano Concerto no. 23 Mozart Symphony no. 35 (Haffner) Mozart Symphony no. 4 Beethoven

2nd Nov 7pm Christ Church, St Leonards HASTINGS PHILHARMONIC CHOIR & ORCHESTRA Vesperae Solennes de Confessore Mozart St Nicholas Britten Romance for Strings Finzi

14th Dec 5pm St Mary in the Castle Carols for All Concert 8th & 9th Feb 7pm Christ Church Candlelit baroque opera performance Jephte, Jonas Carissimi, Euridice Caccini

10th Jan 7:30pm St Mary in the Castle, Hastings HASTINGS PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

22nd Feb 7pm Christ Church Chamber Music Recital

Overture to Freischütz Weber Piano concerto no. 2 Rachmaninoff Symphony no. 9 (New World) Dvorak

13th March 8pm Cambridge Hall Jazz Night

Roman Kosyakov Piano Marcio da Silva Conductor

www.hastingsphilharmonic.com 54

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

2019/2020

performing arts

Hastings Philharmonic

– new horizons

Marcio da Silva has never been one to rest on his laurels, no matter how successful the last season, and the plans for 2019-20 envisage new ventures as well as a core of familiar events and faces.

'Starting from our May concert, we are going to bring orchestral evenings to nearby towns and villages with concerts in Robertsbridge, Etchingham and Winchelsea, with another currently being planned for Rye. The programmes will be based on popular works by Weber, Mozart and Haydn but will also include a world premiere of a work by Bandera who was the audience prize winner of the Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Composition competition earlier this year.

There will also be opportunities in Hastings to renew our acquaintance with winners of the International Piano Concerto Competition when Fuyima Koido plays Mozart’s Piano Concerto No 23 in October and Roman Kosyakov plays Rachmaninov’s 2nd Piano Concerto in January.

Alongside these events there are core concerts including the Philharmonic Choir. The regular Christmas concert will be preceded in early December by an evening of Advent Cantatas, accompanied by lutenist Cedric Meyer, who had proved so popular when he played for the Philharmonic earlier this season.

In April, Choir and Orchestra come together to perform Haydn’s The Creation. This has strong memories both for Marcio da Silva and the members of the Choir as it was the first work he conducted for them when he took over as Musical Director in 2012.

Of the more intimate events, which have become a key feature of the season in recent years, there is a Jazz Night in March with local percussionist Liam Genockey, and in February Aysen Ulucan will give a solo violin recital at Christ Church, St Leonards.

Marcio da Silva will himself be the soloist in songs by Mahler and Vaughan Williams in May. ‘Though our audiences are strong and very supportive, we still have no long term financial backing and would welcome those who enjoy our work to join the Friends and if possible encourage others to do so. At the moment the number of rehearsals we can afford to run is entirely dependent upon the income, and sponsorship of individual events would go a long way to ensuring we can continue to maintain the impressively high standards that our players and singers always provide.'

The season opens at St Mary in the Castle on Friday 11th October with works by Mozart and Beethoven, and the full programme for all fourteen events can be found at www.hastingsphilharmonic.com

Hastings Philharmonic rehearsing Handel’s Messiah, directed by Marcio da Silva. Photo Peter Mould

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

55

performing arts Helena Dix | Sophie Dicks Christopher Turner | Dawid Kimberg

HASTINGS INTERNATIONAL PIANO CONCERTO COMPETITION PRESENTS A HASTINGS INTERNATIONAL PIANO FUNDRAISER

DVOŘÁK

Stabat Mater Matthew Scott Rogers Conductor

Tonbridge Philharmonic Society 7.30pm | £17 / £16 / £9 Saturday 23rd November 2019 Chapel of St Augustine, Tonbridge School

LESLEY SHARP

SIR SIMON RUSSELL BEALE

LUCY PARHAM

SUNDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 3PM

ST. MARY IN THE CASTLE, HASTINGS Tickets available online, at Hastings Tourist Information Centre or by post

Hastings International Piano Concerto Competition & Festival Award-winning British actors join pianist Lucy Parham

Sir Simon Russell Beale

56

An exclusive afternoon fundraising event sees award-winning British actors Lesley Sharp and Sir Simon Russell Beale join pianist Lucy Parham for 'Beloved Clara – A Tale of Love and Loss' in St Mary in the Castle, Hastings on Sunday 10th November, 3pm.

The story of the intense relationships between Robert Schumann, his wife Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms has always fascinated music lovers. This programme of music and readings brings their history to life. Music by all three is performed by the awardwinning pianist Lucy Parham, interspersed with extracts from their letters and diaries, which are read by two celebrated actors Lesley Sharp and Sir Simon Russell Beale.

Ian Roberts, HIPCC Managing Director says: “I am delighted that such esteemed actors are supporting Hastings International Piano Festival and Concerto Competition by agreeing to perform for us in Hastings.

Their production will raise much needed funds for our inspirational programme of educational outreach, which will give opportunities for music making to young people in Hastings and the surrounding area, who otherwise may never have the chance to participate in these life affirming workshops.”

Please visit www.hastingsinternationalpiano.org for info and tickets or book at Hastings Tourist Info Centre.

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

performing arts

Tonbridge Philharmonic Society 74th Season is unveiled

The first concert of Tonbridge Philharmonic Society’s 2019/2020 season will feature a performance of Antonin Dvorák’s Stabat Mater on Saturday 23rd November in the ˇ majestic Chapel of St Augustine, Tonbridge School.

Conducted by Guest Music Director, Matthew Scott Rogers, the choir and orchestra will be joined by four stellar soloists for the evening – Helena Dix, Sophie Dicks, Christopher Turner and Dawid Kimberg.

The first orchestral concert of the new year, on Saturday 22nd February 2020, showcases big-boned works by two Russian giant – Pictures At An Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky, and Symphony No. 5 by Dmitri Shostakovich. The orchestra will be conducted

by Music Director, Mark Biggins, and the concert will take place at St. Peter & St. Paul’s Parish Church, Tonbridge. The society will then take a musical journey from Russia to France, as the combined choral and orchestral concert on 28th March 2020 is set to include delicious music by Camille Saint-Saëns and Gabriel

Fauré, with Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem forming the highlight of the programme.

Visit www.tonphil.org.uk for further details about the 2019/2020 season. pictured top: Matthew Scott Rogers; inset: Mark Biggins, photo Hannah Elizabeth

London Philharmonic Orchestra

this autumn in Brighton and Eastbourne : A Celebration of British Cinema On Saturday 2nd November 7.30pm at Brighton Dome and Sunday 3rd Nov 3pm at Eastbourne Congress theatre.

Film music was never just about Hollywood – and from Lawrence of Arabia to James Bond, Brief Encounter to Four Weddings and a Funeral, British cinema has created its own legends, to utterly unforgettable music.

Film music maestro Anthony Weeden introduces a century of great British film scores. The elegance of Murder on the Orient Express; the visionary pre-war sci-fi of Things to Come; the sheer emotion of the Love theme from Romeo and Juliet: these are the soundtracks of all our lives: and you’ll never hear them played with more energy or flair. Anthony Weeden conducts with Piers Lane, piano. Visit

brightondome.org or www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk for more information.

Piers Lane, photo by Keith Saunders

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

57

performing arts

T he T he HANOVER HANOVER Band Band TM

TM

Patron: HRH The Duke of Kent, KG Founder: Caroline Brown

Patron: HRH The Duke of Kent, KG Founder: Caroline Brown

MESSIAH Friday 13 13 December December 2019 2019 Friday Saturday 21 December 2019

Saturday 21 December 2019

STGEORGE’S GEORGE’SCHURCH, CHURCH,BRIGHTON BRIGHTON ST ST NICHOLAS CHURCH, ARUNDEL

ST NICHOLAS CHURCH, ARUNDEL

Concerts start at 19.30

Concerts start at 19.30

Erica Eloff soprano Bradley Smith tenor William Towers alto Edward Grint bass

Erica Eloff soprano Bradley Smith tenor William Towers alto Edward Grint bass

THE HANOVER BAND and CHORUS

THE HANOVER BAND and CHORUS Andrew Arthur director/hpd Andrew Arthur director/hpd

BOOK ONLINE www.thehanoverband.com BOOK ONLINE TEL:www.thehanoverband.com 0333 666 3366 58

TEL: 0333 666 3366

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

performing arts

ingÊnu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

59

cd reviews performing arts

Neighbours and Sisters Bird in the Belly

An Idiots Guide to Love Anna Howie

B

O

ird in the Belly comprises Laura Ward and Adam Ronchetti of Hickory Signals together with Ben ‘Jinnwoo’ Webb and multi-instrumentalist Tom Pryor who produced the album.

Gravel-edged and growly, Webb’s uncanny vocal fuses with the unadorned but strong voice of Ward while Ronchetti, who plays acoustic guitar, percussion and shruti on the album, also displays his artistic talent in the album cover.

We are graced with a treasure trove of eight rarely recorded songs, dusted down with new life breathed into them, while the album ends with two original numbers – one by Webb, one by Ward. The earthy tracks move from betrayal to prostitution, condemned men, frozen star-crossed lovers, prisoners, paupers and power.

The album is very atmospheric, it draws you in with freestyle soundscapes with Pryor moving effortlessly between violin and electric guitar, organ, banjo and bass. It opens with the furtive ‘Robin and Starling’ a sparse guitar introduction soon intercepted by Ward’s pure voice. The percussive rhythm of ‘Coal Black Wine’ and Ward’s delicate flute playing masks the fact that this is a song about the lure of ‘King Death’, Webb’s singular vocal melding with Ward’s. Her stark a cappella introduction to ‘All You Females’ – a grim song whistleblowing on workhouse conditions – gives way to a hastening tempo and her flute dances as the sound builds and swirls. The mournful ‘Bright Light’ takes words from the chorus of ‘The Little House on the Hill’, a WW1 song about a soldier yearning for home with lyrics by Ballard MacDonald.

‘New Gate Stone’ is an emphatic, full blooded number telling of prisoners who wrote their name on the walls the day before they were hanged, including French highwayman Claude Duval. The chill continues and you can almost hear the ice cracking in the jolting ‘They Slept in the Frozen River.’ The majestic, multi-layered ‘Phoebe to Phyllis’ is based on ‘The Kissing Lasses of Yarmouth’ about women turning to prostitution in the face of poverty and unemployment. Webb’s vocal leads ‘Tobacco’, while the beautiful almost jaunty instrumentation and Pryor’s violin embroiders Ward’s self-penned ‘Bees’.

The albums ends on a strident but mournful note with the devastating ‘45 George Street’. Written by Webb, it succinctly tells the story of the last men to be executed for sodomy in England – convicted on the shallow evidence of a landlord looking through a keyhole. Bird in the Belly have skilfully reinstated some of the lesser known songs of the English folk canon in their own inimitable style. Sometimes poetic, sometimes theatrical and always arresting, it’s a haunting and hypnotic listen.

Visit www.birdinthebelly.com for further info.

n a slightly lighter note, Anna Howie brings us acoustic rock with this five-track album, which kicks off with the title track and, despite it apparently being about her husband, has heartfelt and slightly tongue in cheek lyrics. She attempts to write the missive to keep their love alive. In the end it seems to all boil down to being in good communication in her “Bible for love’s survival”.

‘Pull up a chair’ is a song written just after the death of her father about imagined conversations with him – “I’ll leave my tears on your sweater which you swear you’ll treasure, until it goes in the washing machine”. A beautiful song that will bring tears to the eyes of anyone who has lost a loved one, as it did with me.

‘Miracle on the 7.53’ is a fun 12-bar jaunt and rocks along with a Memphis-style feel, where commuters apparently all decide to have a party on an early train into London.

The band let their hair down and there’s some great piano work. These two disparate songs, sat next to each other on the album, highlight Anna’s writing skill, both lyrically and musically, as does the next track ‘In Your Shoes’.

This song is a touching ballad about a missed opportunity to help a fellow schoolgirl who was in trouble, with a slight twist at the end.

Anna can obviously rock along with the best of them while also having the talent to craft meaningful, captivating melodies.

The album ends with Anna’s take on Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Dancing in the Dark’. It’s a decent cover, with the band holding it all together and Anna obviously enjoying herself.

The album was recorded in Memphis and was released in the summer, reaching number 5 in the UK Country Music Album Charts.

Visit www.facebook.com/annahowiemusic for further info.

reviews cd rev 60

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

cd reviews performing arts

The Water Tower Sessions Holly Kirby and the Great Outdoors

Namer of Clouds Kitty Macfarlane

H

N

ere at ingénu/e we have been aware of Holly Kirby’s music for quite a while. Holly is based on the Isle of Wight and we first came across her when she was younger, playing at such festivals as the Wickham Festival, Bestival and the Isle of Wight Festival. After a break from performing, last year she formed Holly Kirby and the Great Outdoors and has released a new album, recorded live at Studio Humbug on the Island.

The album could be considered a change of direction for Holly. It’s noticeable that there is no mention of her previous recordings on her website, and she now says that her music is leading her back to the country of her ancestors, Ireland. Nevertheless, her songs still have a nod to such great female singer/ songwriters as Joni Mitchel, Suzanne Vega and the like; melodious acoustic based tunes with meaningful lyrics.

The band consists of Holly, vocals and guitar, with IOW musicians Ben Allman, mandolin, cittern and guitar, Ed Daish-Miller, vocals & double bass, Ben Johnson, vocals & violin and Dan Wavell, Cajon.

After listening to The Water Tower Sessions a few things stand out; Holly’s gorgeous voice and the rather splendid band, where violin or viola, cittern or mandolin complement each other beautifully, with the musicians being on top form playing live. Lyric lines such as ‘I’m not giving up on me’, ‘Nothing is fair beyond private dreams’ and ‘I hope she breaks your heart’ tell us, unless I’m mistaken, that Holly has been unlucky in love, a few of the songs seeming to be a cathartic release for her. Not that this diminishes the album in any way. Although the album is crammed full of poetry, allegory and pathos, some of the songs shoot along quite cheerfully, showing Holly is a definitely a survivor, and her songwriting ability is as good as ever. Great voice, great lyrics and a band that adds an extra cultivated sound to her songs. Stand-out tracks for me are ‘Topsy Turvey World’, ‘Honeymoon’, ‘Queen of Hearts’ and the sublime ‘Tea Leaves and Old Magazines’.

This album is another aesthetic milestone for a talented singer/songwriter.

Visit www.hollykirbymusic.com for further info.

amer of Clouds was released in 2018 and is the debut album from this Somerset-based singer/songwriter, and being that our esteemed editor is a member of the Cloud Appreciation Society, it seems fitting to review the album here.

Carried by a voice described by Folk Radio UK as clear as a mountain stream, Kitty’s lyrics touch on intervention and rewilding, climate change and migration, and woman’s historical relationship with textiles and the land. The album is augmented by all kinds of ‘found sound’ recorded in locations from Somerset to Sardinia – birdsong, waterfalls, the click of knitting needles and bookended by sounds of the wild.

This is an album that flows in an almost filmic way.

‘Starling Song’ kicks off the album and immediately we are taken to the banks of a river by Kitty’s silver voice, where a starling murmuration is occurring. The title track is a full-bodied song co-written by Kitty and Jacob Stoney about London pharmacist Luke Howard, the man who gave clouds their cirrus, cumulus and other classifications, and builds to a celestial crescendo. This track introduces us to the potential power in Kitty’s vocals and harmonies and take us into the skies.

It’s difficult to choose stand-out tracks, but here are a few: ‘Dawn & Dark’, a beautifully-judged lullaby Kitty wrote for the newborn baby of a close friend, with Archie Churchill-Moss weaving his melodeon through the gentle words of assurance for the life ahead. ‘Sea Silk’ an extraordinary life story that captured Kitty’s imagination when she first read about it. It starts with the voice of Chiara Vigo, the last of the sea silk seamstresses who lives on a small island off Sardinia.

Written by Kitty and Sam Kelly, this is a song as beautifully burnished as the silk she sings about.

Kitty returns to the theme of our interaction with the living planet in another impressive self-penned song, ‘Glass Eel’ followed by ‘Man, Friendship’, a song of impermanence written after the major 2014 floods on the Somerset Levels. The album is brought to a poignant but calming close in a song that connects literature and land. Here Kitty has reworked the Gerald Manley Hopkins poem ‘Inversnaid’ about the importance of preserving the wilderness for future generations.

Veering slightly off the mainstream, this is an album ahead of its time, a ground-breaking, remarkable album.

Visit www.kittymacfarlane.com for further info.

views cd revie ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

61

performing arts

OTHER WORLDS UPCOMING CONCERTS IN BRIGHTON DOME 2 November 2019 – A Celebration of British Cinema 15 February 2020 – Dvořák Cello Concerto and Sibelius Symphony No. 2 ‘The @LPOrchestra concert last night was stunning ... I thought I would burst with joy.

Thank you all.’ Brighton audience member

01273 709 709 brightondome.org Series discounts of up to 20% available

UPCOMING CONCERTS IN EASTBOURNE’S CONGRESS THEATRE 13 October 2019 – Romantic Russian favourites 3 November 2019 – A Celebration of British Cinema 19 January 2020 – Popular classics by Mendelssohn, Haydn and Brahms

01323 412 000 eastbournetheatres.co.uk Series ingénu/e discounts of up to 25% 62 magazine – south downs available and high weald : issue 26

autumn festivals Harp on Wight International Festival 25th and 29th October

T

top: Harp on Wight 2019 Festival brochure cover artwork by Lucia Para; above: Claudia Lamanna

he sixth annual Harp on Wight International Festival takes place in Ryde, Isle of Wight. This year the organizers have brought forward the starting time of the evening concerts to 7.15pm so that visitors can catch the 9.47pm passenger catamaran sailing from Ryde Pier Head back to Portsmouth if they wish.

The festival has been keen to build links with a Conservatoire for the first time, and leading Welsh harpist Eira Lynn Jones (Head of Harp at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester) will be appearing in the opening concert in an ensemble with four of her students. They will then stay on to lead a teaching workshop.

All of the concerts will be held in Ryde Methodist Church in Garfield Road and among those performing and teaching are Grainne Hambly (Ireland), Ailie Robertson(Scotland) and Monika Stadler (Austria). Leading young international harpists Claudia Lamanna (Italy) and Mared Pugh-Evans (Wales) will be playing in the popular Saturday afternoon concert.

During the daytime at the Methodist Church there will be a wonderful free exhibition of harps made by national manufacturers.

For details of all concerts and workshops please visit www.harponwight.co.uk. For a free copy of the festival brochure please ring 01983 730930.

ingÊnu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

63

autumn festivals

I Fagiolini

Hastings Early Music Festival 17th to 20th October

H

astings Early Music Festival brings international performers to Hastings for concerts, workshops and events at St Mary in the Castle, Kino Teatr and Hastings Contemporary (formerly Jerwood Gallery).

The Festival features renowned vocal ensemble, I Fagiolini, who will be performing their new immersive concert ‘Leonardo – Shaping the Invisible’, celebrating the artist on the 500th anniversary of his death. This critically acclaimed programme, introduced by Leonardo expert Professor Martin Kemp, matches projections of Da Vinci’s iconic art with vocal masterworks.

Opening the Festival with a Concert by Candlelight of virtuosic baroque concertos is HEMF Baroque, the Festival Ensemble, comprising of international period instrument specialists. BBC New Generation Artists the Consone Quartet perform at the Kino Teatr at the Sunday afternoon chamber music platform and pianist Jan Rautio performs Bach In Focus at the Friday morning coffee concert.

In addition to the concerts there are Open Rehearsals, Artists in Conversation, Vocal and String Workshops plus Baroque for Babies, introducing early music to our younger audience.

Visit www.hemf.co.uk for further information.

many other Festival enthusiasts, has enabled us to present our final Festival this October. Thank you for your overwhelming support.

We have been able to listen to Poets’ Laureate Carol Ann Duffy and Gillian Clarke, well-known poets like Brian Patten, Roger McGough and Wendy Cope, much-loved poets like Danny Abse and Ken Smith, U.A. Fanthorpe and Rosie Bailey, prizewinning poets like Penelope Shuttle and Elaine Feinstein, young poets like Helen Mort and James Potts and too-many-to-mention other poets.

The programme includes twenty poets, eighteen events, readings, workshops and a presentation on the life and work of John Betjeman. There will be plenty of opportunity to meet, question and discuss work with individual poets in the relaxed atmosphere of the Livermead Cliff Hotel. The subject for the Festival Challenge will be announced at the Friday evening event. Visitors to the Festival enjoy the convivial atmosphere of the Hotel, with its stunning views of the sea. Torbay is famous for sunshine… it now also has a reputation for fine poetry.

Visit www.torbaypoetryfestival.co.uk for full details of all events.

Torbay Festival of Poetry Farewell to the Festival 18th to 20th October

A

ll good things have to come to an end, and we at the Torbay Poetry Festival Committee felt the end had come when our application for Arts Council funding was refused after eighteen years of funding. But one anonymous patron has now matched the lost Arts Council grant pound for pound that we may continue for one last glorious year! This, with pledges from

64

Oddicombe beach Torbay

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

autumn festivals St Mary de Haura Church, Shoreham; 5th January 2020, St Margaret’s Church, Rottingdean).

For full programme and tickets see www.bremf.org. uk or call 01273 709709.

left: Event 12 – Ceruleo, Burying the Dead, photo ©Robert Piwko; inset: Event 22 – Voice Trio, photo by Tabitha King; [Brighton Early Music Festival] below: David Suchet [Petworth Festival]

Petworth Festival Literary Week 26th October to 3rd November

I

Brighton Early Music Festival 2019

f you are a follower of the festival scene in this part of the world you’ll know that something very special has been happening in Petworth over the last few summers with an extraordinary flourishing of the annual summer festival. But coming up very fast on the inside has been Petworth’s sister event, the Petworth Festival Literary Week.

Originally a modest weekend of events, the autumn

through autumn and winter

T

his year’s Brighton Early Music Festival explores the theme of Metamorphosis with 35 events celebrating 700 years of music. Events take place across the city from 28th September 2019 to 9th February 2020, with the majority concentrated in the main Festival period of 25th October to 10th November 2019.

Well known for developing unique and eclectic events, BREMF 2019 highlights include: •Dramatic recreations of the lives of 17th-century composers Henry Purcell and Barbara Strozzi, both of whom lived through turbulent times (31st October & 1st November, St George’s Church) •21st century hyper-Bach performed on Moog synthesizers (3rd November, St Martin’s Church) •Medieval music by Hildegard of Bingen accompanied by a lightshow from Innerstrings (8th November, St Martin’s Church) •A recreation of the medieval tradition of the Feast of Fools, where the world is turned upside down, figures of authority questioned, and chaos rules! (10th November, St Martin’s Church; 4th January 2020,

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

65

autumn festivals

25th – 29th October 2019 Concerts, Workshops, Lectures, Harp-making course, Harp Showroom & much more...

Ryde – Isle of Wight 01983 730930 event is now very much a full week, and over the years the festival has punched way above its weight in attracting top authors to the area. The 2019 edition is no exception. Covering subjects ranging from current affairs, history, cooking, the natural world, sport, poetry and much else, this year’s top authors include broadcasters James Naughtie, George Alagiah and Jenni Murray, top actors Hugh Bonneville and David Suchet, not to mention leading comedian and novelist Jenny Eclair, and ‘Great British Bake Off’ star, Prue Leith.

"With each event lasting around an hour, festival events really are a great opportunity for audiences to meet fascinating people" says Festival Director Stewart Collins, who has likened the festival to a pop-up Open University. "It’s extraordinary how much you can learn in 60 minutes and you also get the chance to put your own questions if you feel drawn. It’s such a stimulating week."

Visit www.petworthfestival.org.uk for further information about all the events or to book online or call the Box Office on 01798 34457.

www.harponwight.co.uk

HASTINGS EARLY MUSIC FESTIVAL 17 – 20 October 2019

Concerts, Open Rehearsals, Choral and Instrumental Workshops Bringing internationally acclaimed artists to the South East

I Fagiolini – ‘Leonardo, Shaping the Invisible’ Concert by Candlelight ‘Age of Baroque Virtuoso’ Consone Quartet, BBC New Generation Artists I Fagiolini ‘A superb ensemble, outstanding in their range and versatility’ (The Guardian)

above: Hugh Bonneville, photo by Stuart McClymont [Petworth Festival]

St Mary in the Castle and Kino Teatr Tickets online & from Hastings Tourist Information www.hemf.co.uk | 01424 433132 66

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

ic ets

autumn festivals

Torbay festival of poetry 17th – 23rd October 2019 a poetry-filled weekend at Livermead Cliff Hotel readings • workshops • poetic conversations • meet the poets Check website for details of all events www.torbaypoetryfestival.co.uk

1926-052R.pdf 1

29/09/2019 19:44

METAMORPHOSIS BREMF 2019 explores transformation and change across 700 years of music and 2,000 years of stories. Innovative events including music dramas revealing new perspectives on the lives of Purcell and Barbara Strozzi; Bach’s Musical Offering; a recreation of the medieval Feast of Fools; plus family concerts, workshops and more.

Full programme and ticket booking at bremf.org.uk or call 01273 709709 BREMF

brightonearlymusic

brightonemf

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

67

poetry prose & illustration

book reviews Poster Boy

by N.J. Crosskey

In a dystopian version of the 21st century, where right-wing politics is making England look like 1930s Germany, an underground counter movement is gaining momentum. But to what lengths would they go to reverse the dwindling spiral of a society filled with hatred and fuelled by the strident rhetoric of vested interests.

When young Rosa Lincoln's drugged-up twin brother Jimmy was killed, a chain of events was kick-started that would change the face of society, and Rosa's life, for ever. Still grieving the loss of her brother and with a growing sense of unease, Rosa is drawn into a web of deceit and finds herself an unwitting pawn in a deadly game.

With a fast-moving plot that twists and turns, with agents and double agents, and enough spin to make anyone dizzy, this cleverly written story gradually picks up pace as events unfold, propelling Rosa inexorably towards its denouement.

N J Crosskey wrote Poster Boy prompted by the recent disturbing rise of nationalism and racism across the UK. In doing so she created a world whose social setting is recognisable – save that 'Shades'

House of Grace A Family Saga

by Patricia M Osborne It's 1950 and Lord Granville's 16-year-old daughter Grace has a dream. Rather than submit to her father's plan to groom her for a socially advantageous arranged marriage, she wants to be a fashion designer and make her mark on the world.

In spite of her proper, privileged upbringing, Grace's nascent rebelliousness is brought out by her extrovert school roommate Katy. A trip to Katy's home in Bolton, where Grace meets Katy's handsome cousin Jack, seals her fate. The fact that Jack is a coalminer really does not go down well with Lord Granville, and Grace's life takes an unexpected turn.

Written with a warm connection to the eponymous heroine, House of Grace encompasses a slew of different characters and situations, from the basic existence of hard-working mining families in a close-knit community to the giddy heights of London's fashion world.

Through struggles and success, tragedy, heartache 68

replace smart phones and synthetic highs are unregulated and not illegal – yet the influence of politicians and their spin doctors in manipulating the public is far more insidious than in today's world... or is it?

You could call it a sinister caricature of our times, or a wakeup call to be heeded.

Either way, Poster Boy is uncomfortably topical, gutsy and uncompromisingly edgy. It's a definite must-read, I was riveted.

Poster Boy is available in paperback, ebook and audiobook from Amazon and in paperback from all major book retailers.

NJ Crosskey was born and raised in Worthing, West Sussex where she currently lives with her husband and two children. She has worked in the care sector for twenty years, and is now pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming an author. As I write, her second novel 'Overdrawn' is about to be published. For more information, find her on social media @njcrosskey or visit njcrosskey.com.

and joy we follow Grace as she negotiates the highs and lows of her chosen path. Will she succeed despite her father and go on to achieve her dream?

And what of love?

Engaging and emotive, House of Grace is Patricia M Osborne's debut novel, and is available from Amazon.

Liverpool-born Patricia M Osborne now lives inWest Sussex. She has grown-up children and five grandchildren. She is a novelist, poet, and short fiction writer and in February 2019 gained an MA in Creative Writing. Her first poetry collection ‘Taxus Baccata’ has been accepted for publication by Hedgehog Poetry Press. For more information visit Patriciamosbornewriter.com

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

poetry prose & illustration

'I will defend the importance of bedtime stories to my last gasp.'

J. K. Rowling

children's books Daisy Daydream

The Nursery Rhyme Bus

by Sue Wickstead Daisy Daydream is the story of an old London bus that was rescued from the scrapyard.

When new modern buses started arriving at the depot Daisy knew her time was running out. Thanks to her enterprising driver and conductor, Daisy was to enjoy a new life as a kid's playbus.

Delightfully illustrated by Helen Smith and with an important message in this 'throw-away' society, Daisy Daydream is an upbeat, sweet tale, made all

Finding a Friend

by Carol Thomas

Charmingly illustrated by Drew Bristow, Finding A Friend is a delightful little story marking the start of the ever-popular 'boy and his dog', or in this case 'dog and his boy' tale, perfect for little ones – especially those with a penchant for pets.

Written in rhyming verse the text has a comforting musicality, which will not only engage young children but also entertain the adult when reading aloud.

the more significant for being based on true events.

Available from Waterstones, Amazon, and via the author's website.

Also by Sue Wickstead is the Jay-Jay series of books, inspired by The Bewbush Playbus Association. She has events planned through the autumn, including a visit to East Grinstead bookshop in November to promote 'Sparky the Dragon Bus', as well as a blog tour for her book 'A Spooky Tale'. For more information go to www.suewickstead.co.uk.

I found it sweetly enjoyable and it was all I could do not to rush out to the nearest dog shelter to find a friend of my own.

Finding a Friend is available from Amazon or via the author's website.

Carol Thomas is a published author and lives on the south coast with her husband, four children and lively labrador. See more at www.carol-thomas.co.uk.

Harry the Hamster Goes to Venice

by Patricia Keiller

When Harry the Hamster's owners decide to go to Venice for a holiday, Harry seizes the opportunity to satisfy his longing for adventure and stows away in their suitcase.

And what adventures he has! He is entranced by his first sight of a gondola. He is befriended by Gino the mouse, has an encounter with Tomasina the cat, gets terrorised by the Rat Pirates led by Nero, the most vicious and cunning rat in Venice... and he falls in love.

A charming tale of adventure and friendship, with a gentle message about courage and loyalty, Harry

HARRY the HA

MSTER GOES

TO VENICE

the Hamster Goes to Venice will delight young readers. Beautifully illustrated by Anna Krupa, it is available from Amazon.

Based on the south coast, author and screenwriter Patricia Keiller has written a number of books for young adults, for more details go to https://patriciakeiller.wixsite.com/screenwriter-author BY

PATRICIA KEILL ER ILLUSTRATED

BY

ANNA KRUPA & EDITED BY

J.P. WALDRON

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

69

poetry prose & illustration

short stories If you ever thought that short stories were the lightweight cousins of novels, the following books will have you thinking again. As with good poetry, the skilful short story writer is able to distil a novel's-worth of story, impact and emotion into just a few pages.

News of Leon and other tales

by Julia Macfarlane News of Leon and other tales is a superb example of the above statement. Julia Macfarlane takes us through the gamut of emotions with this, her first collection of short stories.

I know it's a cliché, but in this book there is something for everyone. The range of tone she achieves across a variety of diverse situations makes you wonder that the stories are all by the same author.

She brings warm, affirming human relations in 'All I Want for Christmas' and 'BLS Bikes' (anyone who has faced the threat of redundancy will cheer at the protagonists' enterprising attitude). Featuring less sympathetic characters there are high jinks at the workplace, with unexpected results, in 'Messehall Blues' and 'Mr Q's Revenge'.

She can also do bitter and spiky, as in the covert

Black Shadow

and other supernatural tales

by J.A. Gilbert Are you a fan of mysterious goings-on? Do you like to try and guess the inexplicable? Do you enjoy the prickling sensation of the hairs on the back of your neck standing on end? Then this collection of spooky stories is for you.

In Black Shadow J.A. Gilbert introduces us to a range of characters, locations and subject matter, from an arrogant student on an archeological dig to an incredulous police sergeant investigating a missing persons case; from a love-sick victim of the Great War to a reincarnated cat called Gloria.

There's an over-ambitious bishop who falls foul of an ancient curse; a tattoo brings its wearer a lot more than he bargained for; a student prank goes horribly wrong; an impatient amateur sailor does not heed the warnings of bad weather, with dire consequences; 70

conniving of friends in 'A Real Adventure' and 'News of Leon' and the brittle tension of 'The Argument'. And delving into an even darker side, 'A Perfect Night for It' has us wondering about the outcome, hoping for the best but dreading the worst, while 'Behind the Cellar Door' left me stunned with disbelief.

'The Stepmother's Tale' turns a traditional fairy story on its head, and there is mystery and spinetingling magic in 'The Invitation' and 'A Northern Christmas Ghost Story'.

Her flair for characterisation brings each story vibrantly to life, from the plump, insidiously oily hospital driver in 'Mother Wouldn't Like It' to the posh tramp in 'A Long Weekend in France', full of bluster and tall stories, and from the naive optimism of a woman falling for a wrong'un in 'Eyes Wide Shut' to the world-weary widow in 'A Shaggy Dog Story' (which may bring a tear to the more sensitive eye).

The mark of a good author is their capacity to set scene and mood with economy. "Less is more" as the saying goes. But the "less" has to be spot on – the timing immaculate and the choice of words perfect.

Julia Macfarlane has that down to a tee.

A must for your reading list, News of Leon and other tales is available from Amazon, in both paperback and Kindle.

a painting is vandalised while in situ on the gallery wall – but by whom?

Plus there are sinister goings-on at a scrapyard; a clock with a mind of its own; ghostly smugglers; and a mysterious gardener with a tragic past.

As well as some hairraising spectacles there are moving scenes and the occasional wryly humorous moments.

As with any book of short stories, Black Shadow can be dipped into at your leisure – a short-term investment of time is all that is needed to enjoy these chilling tales. Just make sure the curtains are drawn and the light is on...

Available in paperback from Amazon and ebook on Kindle.

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

poetry prose & illustration

A Feast of Christmas Stories Unwrap a Sussex Tale Chindi Authors This is a refreshingly varied collection of Sussexthemed stories marking the festive season, the only constant being the high quality of writing.

You would be excused for thinking that such a collection of stories might be sugar-frosted schmaltzy affairs, with feel-good endings and thinly veiled moral platitudes. This collection, however, although containing the occasional Christmas bauble and warm mince pie, has its fair share of prickly holly and icy footpaths.

Storylines range from the experiences of a young evacuee in Felpham in Beryl Kingston's 'The First Christmas of War', to 'The Mystery of the Phantom Santa', a seasonal outing for Peter Bartram's reporter Colin Crampton of the Brighton Evening Chronicle.

There is a heartwarming nod to Dickens' A Christmas Carol in Christopher Joyce's 'Tiny Tim and the Glittering Reindeer'. A chance meeting on the prom is the topic of 'Christmas Repeats', touching and cleverly written by Phil Clinker.

With her characteristic incisiveness, Rosemary Noble's 'When the Bee Choir Sings' enters a poignant note as Lottie remembers good times in the country-

Meet the Winners The Bognor Regis Write Club

Bognor Regis Write Club's third anthology is the result of their first short story competition, judged by a team of judges who were very impressed with the quality of the stories – and I can see why.

As you might expect from 20 different authors, this collection encompasses a wide variety of styles, voices and subject matter. Some of the stories had me laughing – Patricia Feinberg Stoner's 'Stick in the Mud' and Karen MacCreedy's 'The Godfather' are both playfully irreverent takes on modern life, Lucy Flannery's 'The Cabinet' held its humorous punchline shrewdly till the end, and dog lovers will heartily applaud Julia MacFarlane's 'Mother Love'.

Some made me shiver – the clever 'Jez's Wish'

by Ives Sallow, poignant and uncompromising; Jared Race's 'The Straw-Man' conveys a creepy sense of hair-raising anticipation for the vulnerable female protagonist, while David Warwick's 'Forward Planning' mixes mystical with madness. In Kevin Sleight's 'Curtains', sentimentality at the passing of a much-loved local cinema sits uncomfortably alongside bitter sadness – the final frame a twist in the tale.

There are smatterings of mysticism in the chilling

side around Chichester. While 'Side by Side' by Alan Readman charts the desperately moving experience of two brothers from the Sussex Downs at the front in the Great War. But not all the stories put you through the emotional wringer. There are lighter notes in 'Pudding' by Lexi Rees; Susanne Haywood's witty 'The Gift', which offers a new perspective on the Santa Clause myth; and Maralyn Green's hilarious 'The Christmas Present', featuring a group of octogenarians in an imagined future in the coastal area around Bognor.

And where would Christmas be without a touch of magic? Mary has a change of heart when she and her two little ones meet a mysterious old man on the beach in Angela Petch's 'Stranger on the Shore'.

The ghostly 'Moon Shadows' by Bruce Macfarlane plays with our concept of time, while Carol Thomas's warmly mystical 'Christmas Spirit' will make you smile. And the upliftingly magical 'The Knucker's First Christmas' by Patricia Feinberg Stoner is pure fantasy... or is it?

The ideal seasonal gift, A Feast of Christmas Stories is available to order from Amazon and bookshops.

'Mirror Mirror' by Alison Batcock, Carolyn Travis's wonderfully warm 'The Clock's Ticking', 'The Woman with no Secret'

by Jacqueline Pointer and Julia MacFarlane's gently nostalgic 'The Hour Glass' – those last two gave me goosebumps.

Devastatingly emotive 'Michel's Smile' by John Marston and evocative but surprising 'Changes of Heart' by Maralyn Green are very different approaches to each of the two World Wars, while Jane Lupino's 'Baby Maker 2065' takes Isaac Asimov's concept of robots into a whole new territory.

Although each story is prefaced with a short piece about the author, I skipped that, choosing instead to read the story 'anonymously' and only then find out about the author. That way I had no preconceptions about what I was about to read and my enjoyment was not influenced by expectations. With stories from professional and amateur writers alike, one might anticipate a disparity in the quality, but there was none.

Definitely one for the bookshelf, Meet the Winners is available from Waterstones, Chichester, on Amazon, ebook or paperback, or direct from bognorwriters@ gmail.com or info@aldwickpublishing.com

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

71

poetry prose & illustration A

acumen A

L I T E R A R Y

J O U R N A L

92 September 2018

Putting your feelings into words Resurrecting Leigh Hunt Has poetry been hijacked?

New Poetry • Prose • Reviews

ACUMEN LITERARY JOURNAL an independent magazine from the UK

Acumen Literary Journal

an independent magazine ACUMEN accepts all poems on merit and is not

influenced by gender, ethnicity, religion, fame or anything otherand thanprose the value of the poem. a superb collection of poetry We accept best work sent in during the period published three times athe year: between each issue. To achieve this the short-listing January, May and September system willsingle continue, the£5.50 final poems being chosen from a annual subscription £15, copies long mulled-over short-list.

Acumen Literary Journal, 6 The Mount, Higher Furzeham Road, Brixham, Devon TQ5 8QY www.acumen-poetry.co.uk

ACUMEN LITERARY JOURNAL is published three times a year, January, May and September.

One Year’s Subscription costs £15.00 (UK), £23.00 (Europe sterling); €35.00 (Europe) CHRISTMAS 1943 and $50.00/$55.00 (USA – surface/air).

Best Books CHRISTMAS 1943 ho

CHRISTMAS 1943 - DEVON

in Sussex! p

Advertising rates on request.

A Wide Range and Variety of Books

Brixham, Devon TQ5 8QY UK.

Children's Books

Higher Furzeham Road, www.acumen-poetry.co.uk

extensive stock of children's books, both new releases and classics | children's loyalty card scheme

Personal Recommendation

our knowledgeable staff love the challenge of working with you to find just the right book

Literary Lounge

meet leading authors and hear them discuss their work in an intimate but relaxed setting over a glass of wine

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Wed 9am-1pm Gordon House, High Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6AA 01892 783566 · enquiries@barnettsbooks.co.uk www.barnettsbooks.com 72

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

when you

when you War hard haveisto leave have to leave when you everything everything have to leave youknow know you everything and love. and you love. know and Thelove.

Secret

Single Copies £5.50 post free (UK and Europe: sterling), €10.00 / $20.00 (USA).

plus gifts & stationery | classical music cds & music scores Acumen Literary Journal, 6 The | Book tokens | Out-of-print books obtained | Greetings cardsMount,

- DEVON War is hard -War DEVON is hard

The Secret Rehearsals for Rehearsals The Secret for D-Day... for D-Day...

Rehearsals D-Day...

“A “Awonderful wonderfulbook...” book...”

Michelle Magorian Michelle Magorian “A wonderful book...”

‘Goodnight MrMr Tom’ ‘Goodnight Tom’ Michelle Magorian “A jewel!...”Mr Actress ‘Goodnight Tom’ “A jewel!...” Actress June Brown “A jewel!...”

June BrownActress Dot EastEnders June in Brown -

Dot in EastEnders

At your local bookDot store now in EastEnders Paperback: At your local£8.99 book store now

At your local book store now

Paperback: £8.99 ISBN 978-0-9535123-2-4 Paperback: £8.99

ISBN 978-0-9535123-2-4

www.wightdiamondpress.com ISBN 978-0-9535123-2-4

www.wightdiamondpress.com www.wightdiamondpress.com

Chindi

poetry prose & illustration

author support network

Chindi, a network of authors based mainly in Sussex, was formed in 2012 so that local independent authors could support and encourage each other. Recently Chindi has been exploring wider horizons. While some members have gained traditional publishing contracts, others prefer the autonomy of indie publishing.

Chindi organises events, such as popular ghost tours of Littlehampton and Chichester, and runs workshops and panels for writers at Sussex arts festivals. In its role as publisher, Chindi has produced two anthologies – ‘Littlehampton Ghost Tour’ and ‘A Feast of Christmas Stories’, due out 20th October – and copublished a second ghost tour book for Chichester.

Members meet regularly, both in person and

acumen literary journal

A literary journal with a 34-year pedigree, Acumen brings new poetry, prose and reviews to its readers three times a year.

Acumen is among the longest-running literary magazines today. Patricia Oxley started Acumen in 1985 armed with only an electric typewriter, and without subscribers or contributions. Since then it has grown to one of the country’s leading literary journals.

"The name Acumen came out of nowhere during an evening discussion," says Patricia. "It seemed appropriate as the dictionary definition states ‘sharpness of mind, penetration of judgement’ – just what an editor needs when trying to judge poems, prose and articles!"

Its initial aim was to be wide-ranging, publishing contemporary poets both known and unknown, relying on the strength of the poetry rather than the name

through internet conferencing, to share ideas and suggest projects. One of these projects is Chindi Speaks: a group of fourteen writers who speak on subjects as diverse as romantic and historical fiction, humour, children’s literature, history and self-help. Our YouTube channel offers a taster.

The membership is capped at forty and aspiring Chindi authors are expected to demonstrate a professional standard of work. To learn more about Chindi, meet its authors, sample their books or apply to join, go to www.chindi-authors.co.uk. The Chindi Speaks booklet is available on request from Rosemary Noble at chirosie272@googlemail.com. pictured top: Lancing Beach ©Josie Gilbert. More of Josie's photos can be seen at Pier Road Coffee & Art, Littlehampton

behind it. Illustrious poets from the past weren’t forgotten, with readable essays and critiques on the work of wellloved and well-known poets from other centuries. The magazine has kept to these aims, enlarging them with other stimulating ideas.

As well as enjoying the work of writers from far and wide, Acumen readers can submit work of their own to the magazine. Acumen accepts all poems on merit and is not influenced by gender, ethnicity, religion, fame or anything other than the value of the poem.

They accept the best work sent in during the period between each issue. To achieve this the short-listing system will continue, the final poems being chosen from a long mulled-over short-list.

With issue 95 just out this September, Acumen is continuing its sterling work bringing high quality poetry, prose and reviews to its readers. To find out more about Acumen, have a look at previous issues, or to subscribe, to go www.acumen-poetry.co.uk.

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

73

poetry prose & illustration

Barnetts of Wadhurst LITERARY LOUNGE

More than just a place to buy books, enterprising independent bookshops are bringing a wider range of literary opportunities for their public, including book signings and author talks.

Barnett's Literary Lounge is a series of events that give readers a chance to meet leading authors and to hear them discuss their work in an intimate but relaxed setting over a glass of wine and refreshments.

On Tuesday 15th October Barnett's welcomes back Alan Judd with his gripping and topical new spy thriller, Accidental Agent, which had been described by an ex-Chief of MI6 as 'authentic, clever and wonderfully entertaining'.

Tuesday 3rd December sees Peter Fiennes return with Footnotes, A Alan Judd Journey Round Britain in the

Peter Fiennes

Company of Great Writers. Peter's visit to the Literary Lounge in June with Oak, Ash and Thorn, exploring our relationship with woods, was very popular, so tickets for Footnotes are likely to sell out fast.

In February next year Bridget Collins will be coming to talk about her first adult novel The Binding. Date is yet to be confirmed.

All events start at the bookshop for informal chat before moving on to the venue. Attendance is by ticket only, available in advance from the bookshop. Reserve your place now in the shop or by phone 01892 783566 or email enquiries@ barnettsbooks.co.uk (events sell out quickly).

Go to www.barnettsbooks.com for more about Barnetts and their Literary Lounge. Barnetts Books, Gordon House, High Street, Wadhurst, TN5 6AA.

Christmas is a Time Of Giving

The Kid on Slapton Beach Felicity Fair Thompson Christmas is a time of giving. And back at Christmas 1943, the people of the South Hams in Devon gave so much.

Three thousand people had to leave their homes, their land, and their businesses, without knowing why.

What was planned at Slapton Sands in South Devon were secret rehearsals for D-Day. Imagine having to pack everything you own and leave your home, or pack away your business, or dig up your crops and sell your animals. For young inexperienced GIs from the USA, rehearsing what it would be like landing on the Normandy beaches in the greatest amphibious landing the world has ever seen, just five weeks before the real thing, was essential.

Though the Slapton Sands rehearsal Exercise Tiger went very badly wrong, it provided the Allies with the experience to make D-Day work.

74

The novel The Kid on Slapton Beach follows the story of twelve-year old Harry in this extraordinary moment in history and we see just how much those ordinary people, and the kids, gave to the successful outcome of World War II. "Superb on so many levels... a wonderful book." says Michelle Magorian Author of 'Goodnight Mr Tom'. Order it at your favourite bookstore now.

ingÊnu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

creative courses & workshops

MEADS ART & CREATIVE WRITING CLASSES Catriona Millar and Roddy Phillips have been running their highly popular art and creative writing classes in the St John’s Parish Hall for over three years. The art classes run every Tuesday evening 8pm to 10pm and every Wednesday morning 11am to 1pm. The creative writing workshops run every Wednesday evening 7.30pm to 10pm.

The couple have run classes and workshops across the country but the Meads Hall is their favourite venue.

“Its just such a lovely, atmospheric space,” said Catriona, a Saatchi Gallery artist, “not only is it spacious but it’s well designed with excellent disabled access,

Eastbourne Eastbourne ART ART CLASS CLASS

St John’s Parish Hall, Meads St John’s Parish Hall, Meads

Tuesdays 7.45 - 10pm & Wednesdays 11am - 1pm Tuesdays 7.45 - 10pm & Wednesdays 11am Millar.

- 1pm Led by acclaimed figurative artist Catriona Led by acclaimed figurativetoartist Catriona Millar.

All media taught, beginners advanced welcome.

All media taught, beginners to advanced welcome.

If you’d like to join call Catriona on 07758 367479 If you’dorlike to out joinour callwebsite Catriona 07758 367479 check for on more details. or check out our website for more details.

catrionamillar.com catrionamillar.com

which is a vital feature for several of our members.

The lighting is also excellent during the day and in the evening, which is so important.”

Catriona and Roddy’s art classes are the only classes in Eastbourne where you can learn to paint in oils using traditional techniques established by the likes of Vermeer and Rembrandt.

“A lot of amateur painters are wary of working in oils but we teach our students from the foundation up, which is quite rare, in fact these techniques are no longer taught in art schools and colleges.”

At the Meads art class you can learn to paint in oils, acrylics & multi-media in a friendly, creative environment. You can also learn how to draw in pencil, pen and charcoal. Students of all abilities are welcome, from absolute beginners to advanced painters, all of whom will benefit from Catriona and Roddy’s individually tailored advice and encouragement.

This year the Meads Art Circle formed from the art class and held its first exhibition in the Hall in July, which was a huge success.

Drawing is Roddy’s forte. He was for many years a professional portait artist and illustrator.

His clients included a variety of publications and celebrities from the arts, television and radio, stage, film and sport.

Roddy is also a published writer and a creative writing tutor. His weekly Wednesday evening workshops in the Hall take a student-centred approach to creative writing, offering a range of strategies to help budding writers. Members are encouraged to explore their creative writing potential through selfawareness and self-discovery.

The workshops are suitable for aspiring writers of all levels and abilities and for anyone with a strong interest in reading and writing who would like to deepen their understanding of the creative process.

If you’d like to join the Meads Art Class or the Creative Writing Workshop call Roddy on 07758 367479 or for more information check out their websites: catrionamillar.com and roddyphillips.com

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

75

creative courses & workshops

WHAT WILL YOU MAKE? Over 800 arts and craft short courses Expert tutors and fully equipped workshops

www.westdean.ac.uk 76

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

creative lifestyle

flux surface Open Studio: Porcelain lighting handmade on Shoreham Beach Tucked slightly off the beach in an unassuming cul-de-sac, you’ll find Amy Frankie Smith and her porcelain studio full of innovative lighting.

“I fell in love with porcelain, its softness, its pure white tones and most of all its delicious translucency. When porcelain ceramic is very thin the light shines through it, giving a beautiful, warm diffused light’, explains Amy. Amy’s hand crafted lights showcase the natural quality of translucency in porcelain. Beautifully simple designs are brought to life with delicate attention to detail and the precision required to handle this, the finest of clays.

The Open Studio is a special opportunity to meet Amy in her workshop and see the full collection. Pendants, wall lights, lamps as well as prototypes and seconds available to purchase.

Open Studio is on Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th November from 11am to 4pm, at Flux Surface Studio, 6 Flag Square, Shoreham Beach, West Sussex, BN43 5RZ. Tea and cake and a warm welcome guaranteed.

A short walk across the footbridge from the centre of Shoreham and easy

street parking. Visit www.fluxsurface.com and @flux.surface to see more of Amy’s work. pictured top: Rising Tide, unique bespoke kitchen splashback; inset: Amy Frankie Smith; below: Arc Pendant

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

77

creative lifestyle

____________________ CAFE - BEACH - BAR ____________________

Coast has always been 'the place on the beach to be' in Worthing.

The perfect location for a healthy brunch or a lazy lunch, top-notch locally-roasted coffee, daily specials, local beers and homemade cakes.

78

We have just launched the new Coast menu featuring many fresh, tasty and healthy homemade dishes plus new vegetarian and vegan options.

Bring the kids to the beach, swimming pool, splashpad or playground and Coast is just around the corner.

Come inside and check our fresh new interior, or sit on our terrace and deck where, from sunrise to sunset, the views never disappoint!

ingÊnu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

0 1 9 0 3

2 1 6 9 3 7

B E A C H P A R A D E , W O R T H I N G B N 1 1 2 F G

creative lifestyle

OPEN STUDIO

2

16th & 17th November

porcelain lighting handmade on Shoreham Beach

WAY

communications • • • •

consultancy websites adwords print & mail

Providing effective marketing and consultancy for small and medium size businesses visit: 2waycomm.uk email: info@2waycomm.uk tel: 01342 529950 / 07429 177759

Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th November, 11am to 4pm, at Flux Surface Studio, 6 Flag Square, Shoreham Beach, West Sussex, BN43 5RZ. www.fluxsurface.com

Pete Gilbert, Windspit, Juraassic Coast

Want more colour in your life?

Tired of things being dull?

Then brighten up your day with the only regional arts & culture magazine in the South East. For just £9.95 a year you can have ingénu/e magazine delivered to your door each quarter.

Visit the website or email us at subscribe@ingenuemagazine.co.uk www.ingenuemagazine.co.uk ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

79

Coda RIP Rutger Hauer Actor Rutger Hauer’s soliloquy as his character lies dying on a rain-sodden, bleak and desolate Los Angeles hotel rooftop in Ridley Scott’s futuristic ‘Blade Runner’ is one of the most touching, most quoted and certainly one of the most memorable pieces of cinema of the 20th century, capturing as it does the fundamental tragedy of human existence.

For the full impact one needs to see the film, which in essence follows four (or is it five? - that’s a Blade Runner cinematic in-joke) so called Replicants, artificial humans, who are striving to discover how to prolong their meagre four-year life span. The film raises many sociological, psychological and spiritual questions, while also managing to be in part a detective noir thriller. It is well documented as one of the most influential science fiction films, certainly of modern times.

Rutger Hauer sadly passed away this year and well deserves his footnote in cinematic history. The night before shooting the climactic scene, he personally changed the script and created some of the lines that he so eloquently delivered.

As I say, you have to see the scene in context by watching the whole film, but I confess it touched me deeply when I first saw it. There is something ethereal, dark yet mesmerising and fascinating about it. As a small but heartfelt tribute, here are the lines; short, sad, poignant yet beautiful “I've seen things you people wouldn't believe Attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion I watched C-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhäuser Gate All those moments will be lost in time Like tears in rain Time to die”

recent head of the Arts Council had previously been involved in making ‘reality’ TV programmes, while it also went onto mention a grant of over £100,000 to someone or something to research some sociological aspect of art. If these remarks had any truth in them then they highlight a worrying disconnect between the Council and working artists of all genres.

Here at ingénu/e we sadly have to report on a few local creative ventures that have recently closed. Not that the Arts Council was responsible necessarily.

There is of course worry about Brexit, high street rents and rates increasing, organisers or owners deciding to retire and so on, but we lament the passing of these creative ventures we had come to admire and appreciate.

The lovely Ashdown Gallery in Forest Row has now sadly closed, along with the Rare Skills Gallery there, leaving the village with no galleries at all. The very popular Artichoke Gallery in Ticehurst has now closed, although the artists involved are nevertheless pursuing their individual careers with great success. Tunbridge Wells lost the T.Wells Gallery, which disappeared much too soon. Another shock was the Coln Gallery in Chichester closing in August, apparently due to rent increases. It was a haven for artists’ materials in the area and will be sadly missed.

It’s a while ago now but we were also shocked when the Steyning Music Society ceased operating,

And RIP to some creative and aesthetic ventures in the area I read an article a month or two ago that said a 80

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

coda as they brought top class classical musicians to the area for marvellous intimate performances. I’m sure there may be one or two other ventures that have suffered the same fate, but on a lighter note, this year’s Torbay Poetry Festival, which we have featured each year since our inception, was going to be cancelled due to funding being cut, but we are happy to report that this was saved at the last minute. But isn’t life stressful enough without such problems? And we should also mention the Montague Gallery in Worthing which has been transformed recently from a ‘pop-up’ gallery to a permanent gallery space. Good luck to all involved.

It’s all too beautiful It came to my attention that the Liberal Democrat London Mayoral candidate Siobhan Benita is advocating legalising cannabis to ‘make the city safer’.

Has she been influenced by Canada’s decision to legalise the weed? Considering that quite a lot of government ministers have confessed to taking drugs in their youth, and with David Cameron stating in his recent memoir that he got off his head on cannabis at Eton, it’s not a long stretch of the imagination to wonder if this explains MPs' general behaviour in the House of Commons; for all the world it’s difficult to see the difference between their actions and a bunch of excitedly stoned argumentative schoolboys and schoolgirls.

Besides MPs being cannabis fans, there is also the quite open use, and in some cases deliberate promotion, of the drug by artists, especially pop musicians.

I suppose Siobhan’s theory might be to turn London into a sort of Itchycoo Park*, where everyone comes out to groove about, be nice and have fun in the sun, but I doubt whether it will make the city safer. It might cause someone who wishes to stab someone to be so stoned they can’t remember where they put their knife, or a terrorist to get such an attack of the munchies that they decide to stop to eat something instead of continuing on their way to the tube station.

But it could also send someone a trifle crackers, who then stabs someone just for fun. Many horrific crimes are carried out by people who are already drugged up on something, be it street drugs or legalised drugs such as alcohol, pain killers, anti-depressants, sleeping pills and the various other concoctions Big Pharma makes billions from. Should we really add another drug to the list?

I can speak with some authority on cannabis. For a couple of years in my youth I was a Hippie, smoking cannabis regularly. And I think I can say with certainty that although most people, including myself, just became ‘chilled out’ and somewhat relaxed from the drug, there were certain people, those whose mental stability was already slightly questionable, who definitely became unpredictable and very odd after smoking a joint. I recall one night there was a knock on the door of our flat and upon opening it, a friend from upstairs was standing there stoned, with a huge butcher’s knife in his hand. He was wild-eyed and very weird, staring straight at us. As we spoke to him he just stood there quietly, looking at us with a sort of dead, not-there expression accompanied by a rather disturbing evil grin, with the knife sort of waving about in his hand. He was definitely contemplating something rather dramatic. We managed to talk him down, but it was a frightening moment. pictured clockwise from top left: Rutger Hauer as Roy Batty in Blade Runner; Rihanna smoking something; Siobhan Benita; Itchycoo Park viynl single; A busy scene at the now closed Artichoke Gallery

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

81

coda ingénu/e on the Isle of Wight

So there are those who will feel it’s all too beautiful, who feel inclined to blow their minds getting hung up feeding ducks with a bun, but there will also be those who will blow their minds out in a car, not having noticed that the lights had changed. And so on.

Funnily enough although October 17th sees cannabis use become legal in Canada, the government there is also concurrently issuing cannabis health warning messages which have twenty six possible side effects or dangers which include ‘Cannabis can be addictive. Up to 1 in 2 people who use cannabis daily will become addicted’ and ‘Regular use of cannabis can increase the risk of psychosis and schizophrenia.’ A strange state of affairs when a government can legalise a drug which they then warn you can send you loopy.

That sort of doesn’t make sense. Or does it? When you consider it is estimated the industry is expected to be worth $4.1 billion in Canada and the United States by 2022, that’s a lot of potential tax to be collected. So basically the government becomes a filthy-rich drug dealer. Simples!

We recently met with Vic King of Vaguely Sunny at Coast Café in Worthing to discuss opening up the Isle of Wight more thoroughly to the magazine.

Vic has his finger on the Island’s creative pulse, is one of the organisers of the Island’s Harp on Wight International Festival and a prime mover in Vaguely Sunny. Since 1996 Vaguely Sunny have promoted over 200 events on the Island. These have been a diverse range of concerts, acoustic music, plays and lectures. The main focus has been to bring nationally known creatives to the Island using a wide range of different venues, while also creating events featuring island musicians, helping them gain experience by performing in front of an audience. Check out vaguelysunnypromotions.wordpress.com.

By sheer coincidence, Vaguely Sunny presents Kitty Macfarlane at Quay Arts on 21st October, while Kitty’s superb album ‘Namer of Clouds’ is reviewed in this issue. They have also been responsible for keeping us up to date with IOW singer/songwriter Holly Kirby, whose latest album is also reviewed in this issue.

Vic is organising further distribution of ingénue magazine on the Island and has set up outlets such as Quay Arts, Ventnor Exchange, Dimbola Museum and Galleries, Ventor Arts, Monkton Arts and others.

Here’s to a long and expansive relationship bringing an increased awareness of the varied creativity on the Island to the mainland and vice versa.

*Note for the uninformed; Itchycoo Park was a psychedelic rock song by The Small Faces which reached number 3 in the charts in 1967.

pictured top: The Small Faces (in their Mod days before they went psychedelic); above: Kitty Macfarlane; left: Holly Kirby and the Great Outdoors

82

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 26

83

PRISM CALENDAR GIRLS THE MUSICAL THE LOVELY BONES CHRISTMAS CONCERTS THE GRUFFALO THE WIZARD OF OZ THE SLEEPING BEAUTY SIX THE STRANGE TALE OF CHARLIE CHAPLIN AND STAN LAUREL MY COUSIN RACHEL A MONSTER CALLS OI FROG & FRIENDS! COMEDY, DANCE, MUSIC AND MUCH MORE

Nov 2019 – Feb 2020 cft.org.uk 01243 781312