ingénu/e 40, summer 2023

ingénu/e creative talent revealed

fabulous 10th anniversary issue!

A Feast of Festivals plus galleries & exhibitions art trails & open studios concerts, gigs, theatre & film pages teeming with interviews cd & book reviews, poetry & flash fiction competition inside, creative courses & workshops

south downs and high weald : issue 40: summer 2023

WTM's Open Exhibition will return in November 2023

The Open23 offer amatuer and professional artists, of all ages, from across Sussex the exciting opportunity to exhibit within a distinguished gallery space. Anyone who lives or works in East or West Sussex is welcome to submit up to three pieces.

Find out more and submit your work wtam.uk/open23 at wtm.uk/open23

https://wtam.uk

museum and art gallery

wtm.uk/open23

ingénu/e creative talent revealed

contents ten years of ingénu/e 4 spotlight on... a feast of festivals 8 visual arts & contemporary crafts 26 art trails & open studios 46 performing arts 54 poetry, prose & illustration 76 creative courses & workshops 88 creative lifestyle 95 coda 96

who’s who & what’s what editor Gill Kaye editor.ingenue@gmail.com

sales & marketing

Roger Kaye roger.ingenue@gmail.com 07583 944546

subscriptions

subscribe@ingenuemagazine.co.uk

online

www.ingenuemagazine.co.uk https://www. facebook. com/ingenuemag

cover image

KT Tunstall performing at Brighton Dome in 2011, photograph by Julie Edwards.

BRIT Award winning and Grammy-nominated artist KT Tunstall burst onto the music scene with her 2004 multi-platinum debut, Eye to the Telescope, which spawned the global hits 'Black Horse and the Cherry Tree' and 'Suddenly I See'.

She is performing at Worthing's Pavilion Theatre on 24th July. You can read about it on page 57.

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

prelude Welcome, dear reader, to the 40th issue of ingénu/e magazine – and our 10th anniversary!

Who would have thought it, eh? The seed of an idea a decade ago has germinated and flourished, rooting itself in the fertile creative culture of the region and bearing fruit for us all to enjoy. But enough of the horticultural references. We love what we do but we couldn't do it without you. Readers, advertisers, subscribers, contributors, you have all been a part of this exciting adventure and for that we extend our grateful thanks.

When we started we had no idea there was so much creativity going on all around us. Oh of course we knew of some, but the sheer volume of work being created by artists, makers, musicians, performers, writers etc never ceases to amaze me.

The drive to create seems to be an irresistible one, and when thwarted or redirected by circumstances – career, family etc – is often embraced again when time and opportunity permit, and the chosen artform returned to with a sigh of relief and renewed enthusiasm.

This urge to create is perhaps most visible in performance. Take actors for instance. We have recently had the pleasure of seeing two very talented small theatre companies ply their trade – This Is My Theatre gave their Wuthering Heights at an outside venue, and the Bowler Crab Theatre Company (incidentally also celebrating 10 years) brought A Midsummer Night's Dream to the Shoreham Shakespeare Festival. These companies often travel for hours to reach their venue, the actors turn stage hands to strike the set at the end of the performance, returning the venue to an empty space once more (although the magic remains in our memories), and then there's the long drive home. The dedication. Awesome! And all to tell a story. And that's what any art form is at the end of the day. The desire to tell a story, to communicate, to connect.

You only have to look at the popularity of festivals and art events to see the huge appetite people have for that connection, for aesthetics, to inject something more into their day-to-day lives. Personally, as an artist myself, I am continually inspired by the work I see on a daily basis by the artists with whom I come into contact via ingénu/e. The same applies to writers and musicians.

I was astonished to discover how many people have produced CDs, published books and written stories and poetry; it tumbles out onto the page, the kindle, the streaming service, the social media platform, all for others to enjoy, to get lost in, to connect with.

Clear evidence of all this is seen in the sheer longevity of some of our contributors. As well as our 10th several have anniversaries this year: Melting Vinyl is 25, Tenterden Folk Festival and Artwave both celebrate 30 years; Frogmore Press and Hever Castle Theatre are marking their 40th and Cornwall Folk Festival has been going a magnificent 50 years! Well done and long may we continue!

Finally, to mark the occasion, we've added pages, an exciting competition, reinstated Creative Lifestyle and present a special article about our journey so far. Enjoy!

–Gill Kaye, editor

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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Taking a stand against the uglification of the world!

ten years of ingénu/e magazine Let’s go right back to the beginning!

It was the spring of 2013. Gill and I were at a bit of a crossroads – in jobs we didn't like, unhappy with the rate society seemed to be dumbing down – what to do? We had an Idea... Let’s start a free, grass roots arts magazine that helps promote up-and-coming talent of all artistic genres. The purpose twofold: one, to help give more exposure to such talent and two, to raise awareness of the amount of creativity on offer in the area, thus releasing a greater aesthetic into the local culture.

What inspired us?

Well, Gill being an artist and myself a writer and musician, we were well aware of the dedication and hard work it takes to be a successful artist in any profession. And we were also well aware of the remarkable talents of many creative individuals that do not receive the recognition they deserve. We would come across musicians, artists and writers whose work we felt was so much better than others (often famous) who were less talented, yet were celebrated more widely. It seemed unfair, to say the least.

In our current times of disingenuous politicians, corrupt media and vested interests it struck a chord!

In modern parlance the word ingénue tends to have a feminine slant in its usage, referring usually to a young creative girl or woman who is endearingly innocent and wholesome or very new to an artistic genre. The female form of ingénue is first recorded in English in Thackeray’s ‘Vanity Fair’ of 1848.

Also, as the magazine had a primary mission to promote emerging and re-emerging creative talent of any genre – and most creative beings who are venturing forth on their career trajectories collide like sheep amongst wolves with such un-aesthetic situations as economic problems, critics and over critical and intrusive media – we thought the word quite appropriate for a title.

Ingénu is the masculine form of the word and ingénue the feminine form, and so we coined the name ingénu/e.

Next, we needed a Mission Statement.

We both had been deeply touched by the 1988 film ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’, directed

by Philip Kaufman, based on the novel of the same The next step was to choose a name. name by Milan Kundera. It starred Daniel Day Lewis, We chose ingénu/e, and here’s why.

Juliette Binoche and Lena Olin. And so we borrowed The word originates from ‘L’Ingénu’, a novella by the a phrase from the film to explain our purpose.

French writer Voltaire, published in 1767. The main In one scene Sabina (Lena Olin) is having lunch character (a boy, a child of nature as it were) has an with a friend in a restaurant, banal piped music extremely literal understanding of society fills the room. A talented, bohemian artist, and its values and this serves as both comic “Congrats on the Sabina becomes extremely annoyed and and satirical comment on the culture of the agitated, exclaiming “Everywhere music is first mag, looks time as his tale unfolds. The story satirises turning into noise. Look. These plastic flowers GOOOOOD.” religious doctrine and the folly and injustices – they even put them in water! And look out –Pete Gilbert, of French society and criticises the contemthere, those buildings – the uglification of the Artist porary corruption in the French government. world! The only place we can find beauty is if 4

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

ten years of ingénu/e magazine We travelled extensively throughout the area setting up outlets in cafés, art centres, libraries, theatres, art galleries, hotels, tourist information centres, visitor centres, music shops, bookshops, museums and other venues favoured by culturally aware people.

We began selling adverting, writing articles, visiting people and making ourselves known as broadly as possible. We set up the beginnings of our social media platforms and our first website and began in earnest to create the first issue.

Issue 1 summer 2013

Lena Olin as Sabina with her famous bowler hat in 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being'

its persecutors have overlooked it. It’s a planetary process… and I can’t stand it.”

And so our Mission Statement became: 'Taking a stand against the uglification of the world!' And the magazine tagline became: 'Emerging Creative Talent'.

We then conducted some market research.

If ingénu/e magazine was going to be free for readers to pick up it would have to be funded by paying advertisers. Our conclusions following the reasearch were that advertisers wanted: • Good coverage of their local or regional area • Economical advertising rates • Exposure via social media such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter • Expanding their reach to their target market All good so far.

“The magazine is beautiful!!!”

–Liza Riley, subscriber “The best arts magazine in the South of England.”

–Guy Portelli, Sculptor

Next we got busy creating, promoting and launching the magazine.

We chose the B5 format for the magazine as opposed to the larger A4 size (a bit unwieldy) or the smaller A5 size (too small to give some of the more detailed images justice), making it much more portable for readers when picking it up from one of our outlets – easy to pop into a handbag or capacious pocket – and yet still gives plenty of scope to create an aesthetic magazine.

We also decided that the magazine should have separate sections for each genre of creativity. Hence the features were initiated: Visual Arts, Contemporary Crafts, Art Trails and Open Studios, Performing Arts, Theatre, Festivals, Poetry, Prose & Illustration, Creative Courses and Workshops and occasionally Creative Lifestyle.

And, despite being a free magazine, we decided on a policy that advertising should cover approximately 40% of the magazine, enabling the remaining 60% to be dedicated to interesting articles, interviews and comment for readers.

top: Front cover of ingénu/e magazine, issue 1, summer 2013; above: Gabby Young in Hampstead Heath 2022. Photo by Rachel Anthia Sherlock

The front cover shows Gabby Young, ringleader of the hugely popular eight-piece circus swing band, Gabby Young & Other Animals. And what news of Gabby ten years later? Well, the uphill struggle of making it as a DIY musician, a bout of cancer and also motherhood have intervened. But with her new husband by her side as co-writer and producer, she now performs simply as Gabby Young.

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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ten years of ingénu/e magazine “Thank you for the issues, the ad and feature look great and we were delighted by the Facebook post, we really appreciate the support. We have put the magazine on display, they all disappeared quickly last time!”

–Caroline, the Lighthouse Gallery

the magazine design while also enhancing our website and social media platforms.

I should interject here with a well-worn idiom, and say that the magazine has always been a labour of love, rather than a business purely for profit, and as long as we are keeping our head above water we are happy.

We have met, and in a lot of cases become friends with, many people, welcomed people willing to help distribute the magazine and also cemented abiding relationships with a wealth of artists, galleries, theatres, performers, educators, venues and contributors.

A few years on and flying relatively high, we were very optimistic about the future.

“I love your magazine. I picked one up in Shoreham and it’s buzzy, beautifully laid out and inspirational for creatives. Many thanks.”

–Angela Petch, author

above: Roger distributing the first issue of ingénu/e magazine; right: magazine delivery day!

As the magazine grew and evolved, we began to also include more of the various cultural events in the area, all the while not losing sight of our fundamental concept and core principles. Thus our tagline evolved to 'Creative Talent Revealed'.

Growth and improvement And so as we progressed onwards from issue number one. We gradually expanded, becoming more professional, always adding new distribution outlets (and finding favourite cafés), regularly augmenting our roster of subscribers as more and more readers discovered us, increasing the number of pages and improving The obligatory café stop while on our distribution rounds, at Chichester and Tunbridge Wells

pre-pandemic graph showing ingénu/e's expansion

Then the pandemic hit!

Of course, while some companies and individuals became wealthy from the crisis, the Arts particularly were left to drown, decimated both economically and culturally.

While a few creative outfits rose to the occasion, adapting to the 'new normal' (whoever had heard of Zoom before the lockdowns?) it was nevertheless tragic to see some galleries, artists and performers as well as businesses in the arts sector struggle and even in some cases close their doors. One needed to be astute and resourceful to survive such a drastic situation.

A bright idea After recovering from the sudden shock of the majority of our advertisers cancelling their advertising, we had to think! And so we thunk deep!

We came up with the idea of “Just read issue 32 and I’m so utterly delighted to have found you. I have heard of festivals I didn’t know existed and been reminded of festivals that I do follow but did not realise the dates were so near, for example Wordfest. Many thanks for pulling Sussex together.” –Subscriber

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ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

ten years of ingénu/e magazine simply publishing online for the duration of the situation and promoting this version via Facebook ads.

Remarkably this worked, with a reasonable number of advertisers coming or staying on board, and we managed to put together a string of issues online (issues 28 to 31, see below) and survive the lockdowns.

“Just a brief note to thank you for the superb work you did on the feature and advert for us. It was really a pleasure to see some real journalism at work and Jim was delighted to be so well reported.” –Ian Roberts, Teignmouth Jazz Festival

ingénu/e creative talent revealed

A creative renaissance begins...

aesthetics in real life run parallel with the digital universe

“Such a lovely magazine, it's the highlight of my quarter! When I retire I'm going to go around all the places that are advertised in the magazine!”

–Subscriber

ingénu/e

south downs and high weald : issue 29: autumn 2020

creative talent revealed

Keep Calm & Create

online courses & workshops

“That’s me sorted for the afternoon: latest ingénue magazine arrived at Chalk Gallery. Lots to read!” –Louisa, Chalk Gallery

the air. Art trails, open studios, exhibitions, festivals, performances, theatre, creative workshops et al sprang back to life after being incarcerated for so long. It seemed all would be back to normal in no time and the future was so bright we had to wear shades.

Over the next few issues the magazine started towards regaining the heights reached before the pandemic and fair stood the wind for the future.

But of course we soon discovered it wouldn’t be all plain sailing. Now came the war in Ukraine and the subsequent economic fallout.

And so once again we had to think! And after very careful consideration and much deep thought we decided “To hell with it! We are just going to push the envelope and continue to create and improve the magazine no matter what!”

And so we created a brand new website, increased the print run, improved and streamlined the distribution, added to the number of subscribers and have quite a few ideas on the back burner that will be implemented in the near future – watch this space!

So here we are. Summer issue 40, our tenth anniversary issue, packed to the gills and overflowing with an abundance of creativity. We are proud to have come this far and owe a huge debt of thanks to all who have supported our endeavour. You know who you are!

Enjoy, and do spread the word about ingénu/e, and if you are not one already, become a subscriber. Support us and support local artists, makers, musicians, writers and all such independent creative ventures.

It’s not a just desirable thing to do, it is vital, especially considering the adverse mental and spiritual effect of all the nonsense pervading society at the moment.

In the words of Pablo Picasso “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”

And how that washing is needed! So let’s get busy!!

Gill and Roger Kaye... Cheers!

surviving the lockdown and looking forward to better times

south downs and high weald : issue 30: winter '20/21

“ingénu/e has really flown well, and thank you so much for the very hard work which both Gill and yourself put into the publication.”

–Andrew Bernardi, Shipley Arts Festival

Back in print – hooray!

With the summer issue 32 we were back in print and raring to go. And there was an optimism in ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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spotlight on...

a feast of festivals

It seems longer, but it’s only a year and a half ago that restrictions were completely ended and festivals began to reappear live again. And, this summer, here is a fabulous feast of nearby festivals of all genres for you to enjoy. Go out and support them, enjoy them and revel in your time!

The Baroque Collective The third BaroqueFest, July 2023

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here are six concerts, all of which are in St Michael’s Church in the High Street, Lewes. Ally Bury (violin) and Maggie Cole (harpsichord) begin the festival with their recital at 6.30pm on Wednesday 19th July. If you have never heard a basset horn, then come and listen to the Vauxhall Band play three of them on Thursday 20th at 6.30pm. The day after, on Friday 21st July, the internationally renowned group Red Priest, led by recorder virtuoso Piers Adams and violinist Julia Bishop, will thrill with their musical pyrotechnics. The highlight of BaroqueFest 2023 will be the Splendours of Venice in which The Baroque Collective and Singers will be joined by His Majesties Sagbutts and Cornetts in a programme of Gabrieli, Monteverdi and Rigatti, bringing the Festival to a joyful conclusion on Saturday 22nd July at 7.00pm.

The Collective have just launched their Friends and Patrons scheme in support of BaroqueFest 2024 in which they will be presenting Bach’s monumental B Minor Mass, one of the crowning musical achievements of the 18th century. Plans for the future include Handel’s Saul, one of his most exciting oratorios. top: Red Priest; inset: His Majestys Sagbutts and For more information about The Baroque Collective Cornetts; above: The Baroque Collective Singers visit www.thebaroquecollective.org.uk.

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ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Petworth Festival 11th to 29th July

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here are few things in life that match the thrill of live performance: astounding talents in close proximity, bringing to life their skills, passions and energies. A festival is an opportunity to experience this thrill.

This year we celebrate our place in the South Downs with a series of events that reflect on the defining qualities of our part of the world, but we also celebrate an incredible diversity of live performance. That, I would like to think, is a defining quality of the Petworth Festival. If you need a helping hand, do look at the Artistic Director’s Trail as this gives you a great route through the festival in twelve events. I’m confident you won’t be disappointed.

Thanks for your support, please join us and, above all, please enjoy!”

–Stewart Collins, Artistic Director.

The Artistic Director’s Trail A festival in twelve events…

12th July Tenebrae the finest of the UK’s many fine choral groups | 14th July Yehudi Menuhin School extraordinary young classical talents | 15th July Catrin Finch and Cimarrón a joyous world/roots collaboration | 18th July An Evening Without Kate Bush a brilliantly-performed homage by a genuine one-off | 19th July Violeta Vicci, Live in Nature, magical sounds against a stunning South Downs backdrop | 21st July Milda Daunoraite (piano) the Royal Academy of Music’s finest | 22nd July Jazz in the Stables great foot tapping music, great atmosphere | 23rd July Aaron Akugbo/John Kitchen the stellar classical trumpeter | 25th July Lisa Canny the acme of performing talent and charisma | 26th July Saltlines a unique collaboration between folk super group Gigspanner and author Raynor Winn | 28th July Kaito Kobayashi the Leeds International Piano Competition prize winner | 29th July Jess Gillam the phenomenal classical saxophonist and her dynamic ensemble.

And there are many other wonderful events at the festival.

For the full details please visit from top: Cimarrón; Gigspanner; Jess Gillam Ensemble www.petworthfestival.org.uk. ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Loxwood’s gloriously indulgent

Jazz, Gin & Blues Festival Sunday 30th July, 12noon to 8pm

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n afternoon of energy and musical genius.

The Loxwood Meadow’s gloriously indulgent Jazz, Gin and Blues Festival has a stunning line up for the year.

Hosting an intimate audience of just 500 people, music lovers can spend an afternoon outdoors, under the boughs of the woodland trees, as they become immersed in a vibrant musical soundscape.

Featuring an eclectic mix of renowned and highly respected musicians; and with some brand new compositions being written for and performed live at the event for the first time, this spectacular afternoon of energy and musical genius is not to be missed.

Curated by Simon Bates, founder and organiser of the legendary Loxwood Jazz Club, the afternoon commences at 1.30pm with the Nigel Price Organ Trio, before the extraordinary BPM indulge and delight with their unique and compelling sounds.

Bringing a new mix of extraordinary talent and breathtaking creativity to this year’s event, music lovers will experience the rare musical partnership between The Simon Bates Quartet and Harry the Piano, one of the most gifted improvising pianists in the world. This musical extravaganza continues into the early evening with Ashton Jones and his captivating brand of musicianship and flair, along with the masterful multi-instrumentalist and composer Harry Green. These sets run through to the final musical bars at 8pm.

Guests may also participate in a saxophone workshop led by Simon Bates. A highly qualified instructor who has played in prestigious ensembles around the world, his

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Simon Bates, photo Ed Bell

passion is certain to inspire musicians of all skill levels, give insight into the art of playing the saxophone and advance musical abilities.

And for the Gin lovers, independent local gin producers, including Cabin Pressure Spirits, G & H Spirits and Madame Jennifer Distillery will be on hand to help quench thirsts; along with real ale from the award-winning Langham Brewery, Cider from Silly Moo and Mead from Loxwood Meadworks. An exciting selection of local heritage food stalls will offer a selection to tempt and pamper all palates, providing the ingredients for the perfect afternoon with crème scones through to sizzling burgers, hog roast and tasty vegetarian and vegan options too.

The Loxwood Jazz, Gin and Blues festival takes place in the The Enchanted Woodland, Loxwood Meadow, RH14 0AL, just off the B2133 between Wisborough Green and Loxwood. Gates open at 12noon with ample free parking. For tickets and more info, please visit www.jazzginblues.co.uk.

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

spotlight on... a feast of festivals

The Loxwood Joust

Commands the Fiercest Fun 5th & 6th, 12th & 13th August

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he Loxwood Joust, the UK’s most spectacular and immersive medieval and jousting festival, will be testing mettle to the very end. Full contact medieval fighting group Invicta has thrown down the gauntlet and challenged men and women from clubs from across the county to battle for the Loxwood Kingdom Cup. No-one knows what the outcome will be as the teams from Armoured Combat Gloucester, The North, Norwich, The Hellions, BMC and ISCA all face the Joust’s revered Invicta team.

With visitors to the Kingdom cheering for their favourite champions, nothing is staged! See these feisty knights battle it out with strength, honour and all the ferocity of a pro-fight. Each day the Loxwood Joust’s visitors will see first hand the speed of Sword and Buckler, the stamina of Sword and Shield, the skill of Long Sword and the strength and power of Polearm as the fighters compete one to one using the different disciplines.

Fully armoured group battles, where those with the strength of body and mind will battle for honour and glory, will also be played out for the accolade of winning the Loxwood Kingdom Cup. The winners of each fight will earn points for their club and each day the victorious club with the most points will be awarded the treasured cup by the King of Loxwood. And, on the final Sunday, a member of the Invicta team will have the honor of being knighted a Loxwood Knight by King Villian.

In another skillful first, those citizens and squires of Loxwood who are keen archers, or even have-a-go hopefuls, are also invited to take aim and shoot in the daily challenge to be knighted the realm’s Master of Archery. Guided by Loxwood’s finest archers and using real wooden longbows that replicate the 15th Century bows used during the Wars of the Roses and at the battle of Agincourt, visitors are encouraged to compete for the Master of Archery title.

Just aim, fire six arrows, and hit a long-distance 20-yard target. Score between one to ten each time you hit and hit the bullseye to score ten.

Gain the highest score tally and be proudly proclaimed Master of Archery in the Jousting arena.

The Loxwood Joust is located just off the B2133 between Wisborough Green and Loxwood and has ample free parking. Experiences and banqueting places must be booked in advance when booking tickets at www.loxwoodjoust.co.uk.

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Broadstairs Folk Week Folk Music by the Sea 11th to 18th August

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njoy a fantastic week of music, song and dance by the sea! Concerts, dances, ceilidhs, workshops, free family events, Morris dancing, pub gigs, parades and a festival campsite. Broadstairs will welcome hundreds of musicians, dancers and thousands of visitors to the town at the height of the summer season. A full-on festival experience within reach of sandy beaches.

In 2023, the headliners represent the best of Folk, Americana and Roots music. Seth Lakeman is one of the most successful English musicians of his generation. Lady Maisery is “the most exquisite vocal harmony work on the English folk scene”, according to The Guardian. The Festival’s Patron Tim Edey invites fellow musicians to join him in a special concert, celebrating all things guitar. The main concert venue is the town’s Baptist Centre where you can also catch Granny’s Attic, The Jeremiahs, The Often Herd, Angeline Morrison, Coracle and many more.

There’s a full programme of dances and ceilidhs in the town’s Sarah Thorne Theatre, featuring dance workshops and other venues for special shows, including Music Hall, Girl Talk, Gypsy Songs, and a Folk Club with opportunities for

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everyone to sing a song or strum a tune.

There are around 400 events crammed into one week – including workshops for all abilities in music.

Young musicians can join in with the Band in a Weekend project. There is the ever popular official free pub gig programme and at the bandstand the free Hobby Horse Club attracts hundreds of families who participate in games, singing and dancing with Clarence the Dragon and the festival mascots, the Hooden Horses.

The festival campsite is within walking distance of the town and venues, although there is a free minibus service into town too. It’s a great way of having a holiday by the beach with all the entertainment thrown in!

For more details and details of how to book visit www.broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk. top: Coracle; inset: Seth Lakeman, Photo Tim Young

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

spotlight on... a feast of festivals including Beyond The Barricade, New Creations Collective new ballet Nightingale, The Last Night of the Hever Proms, Ronnie Scott’s All Stars, Horrible Histories New Barmy Britain and following their success last year, the Guildhall Strings return with The Best of Baroque.

We are also thrilled to welcome a plethora of world-class companies performing with us for the first time including Wild Arts with their performance of The The Elixir of Love, photo, Lucy Toms

Guildhall Strings

The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle is 40!

Events through July and August

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he Festival Theatre has played at Hever Castle, each summer, for the last 40 years and is the longest running open-air theatre in the South East. It is time to celebrate with 40 brilliant events to entertain all. The vibrant and varied programme includes opera, plays, jazz, music, speakers, comedy, family favourites and the best tribute artists.

Through July and August events will take place at our picturesque home, the Two Sisters’ Theatre, The Loggia, Anne Boleyn’s Walk and for one night only the castle can be your stunning backdrop as you picnic on the main lawn and enjoy Illyria’s production of Pride and Prejudice. Also audiences can enjoy Titipu Tea in the Guthrie Pavilion where singers from Charles Court Opera will serenade a programme of Gilbert & Sullivan. Charles Court Opera will return to Two Sisters’ Theatre for Come and Sing the Pirates of Penzance, where the audience are invited to sing the choruses.

Several of our most popular companies are choosing to celebrate our 40th with us by bringing their latest shows,

Elixir of Love, opera packed with big tunes, romance, and mischievous comedy, sung in English; The Duke’s Theatre Company with Twelfth Night and there’s plenty of opportunity to dance the night away most weekends.

Dr Owen Emmerson & Kate McCaffrey will present their new talk on the current exhibition at Hever Castle, Catherine and Anne: Queens, Rivals, Mothers and the ground-breaking discoveries found within Anne Boleyn’s Book of Hours.

The comic genius of Alan Ayckbourn is back by popular demand with his play A Chorus of Disapproval and award-winning Grinstock Comedy Club will amuse us with two nights of the country’s leading comedians from the TV and UK circuit.

The box office is open 07379 488477. Bring your picnic and celebrate with us. www.heverfestival.co.uk

Hever Castle, photo David Bartholomew

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

The Shipley Arts Festival concerts through summer and autumn

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ounded by Andrew Bernardi in 2000, the annual Shipley Arts Festival brings world class music to communities in and around Shipley and Sussex.

Through a curated programme of concerts and events, it celebrates the connection between music and nature, wellbeing and heritage...

The Great American Songbook July 16th 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Nuthurst Church, Horsham.

The Stradivarius Piano Trio (Maria Marchant, Piano; Jonathan Few, Cello; and Andrew Bernardi, Stradivarius Violin) will be joined by acclaimed Indian tenor, Anando Mukerjee for a musical evening celebrating The Great American Songbook. Expect some stirring renditions of several classics from George Gershwin, Irving Berlin and many more.

A Strictly FAB-U-LOUS evening July 26th 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, Horsham.

The Stradivarius Piano Trio invite you to a very special evening that is set to be Fab-u-lous! – performing a unique twist on the Strictly Come Dancing theme with a musical programme aiming to deliver perfect scores from the judges. Expect to hear a Tango from Piazzolla and a Quickstep arrangement of Love on Top from Beyonce as well as many more.

Bernardi Chamber Orchestra in the Park August 27th 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm Drew’s Barn, Warnham Park, Horsham.

An evening generously hosted by Jonathan and Caroline Lucas in the fabulous setting of Warnham Park, specifically Drew’s Barn (middle of the park).

The Bernardi Chamber Orchestra takes the stage with music that will include: J.S.Bach, Double concerto for Violin & Oboe in D minor; Tchaikovsky, Souvenir de Florence as well as popular tunes by Elgar. The evening would not be complete without a glass of our favourite Nyetimber and canapes.

Opera Gala with Charlotte Bröker & Dominic Bevan September 20th 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, Horsham.

What a delight to have the immense vocal talents of Charlotte and Dominic return with us to Leonardslee for the ever popular Opera Gala concert. You can expect to hear pieces from The Marriage of Figaro, La Bohème, Nessun Dorma, West Side Story and many, many more.

La Traviata October 11th 6:30pm to 10:00pm Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, Horsham Bernardi Music Group with special guests from Instant Opera presents a semi-staged concert performance of Verdi’s romantic masterpiece La Traviata in an intimate chamber performance at Leonardslee House.

Visit www.bernardimusicgroup.com for full details of these fabulous concerts.

Operatic Soprano Charlotte Broker with Andrew Bernardi and musicians from the Bernardi Music Group

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ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Cornwall Folk Festival’s 50th anniversary 24th to 28th August

T

his year, Cornwall Folk Festival celebrates its 50th outing, and with a bit of a change to the format. It will run over five days, starting with a Thursday night ceilidh featuring Cornwall’s finest Irish-style musicians, Krelys.

The Sunday 27th August headliner is the great Seth Lakeman. As well as his reputation as international musician of the highest calibre, Seth has a close relationship to the festival, and is the perfect act to close the set of concerts in Wadebridge Town Hall.

Friday continues with Gigspanner Big Band who, based on recent performances, are six musicians at the peak of their ability. Saturday the town-based festival welcomes Kinnaris Quintet, five brilliant Scottish musicians who take the Celtic fiddle tradition to a new level.

Other acts from across Cornwall and the South West include Sarah McQuaid, Our Atlantic Roots, Teyr, Windjammer, Geoff Lakeman and Rob Murch, and Chris Ostler.

During the day, the festival’s FAR

Stage features more regional acts from the bank holiday weekend, plus live music and dance in the streets and sessions in the pubs.

This year the festival itself will close on the August Bank Holiday Monday at its outdoor FAR Stage. The FAR Stage features back-to-back acts mainly from across the Southwest, and the closing set will be from Padstow's finest The Stowes.

Late August finds North Cornwall at its late summer best – many visitors having left, but the weather and sea should be warm and welcoming!

Visit www.cornwallfolkfestival.com for full info. top: Sarah McQuaid; below: Krelys

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Southdowns Music Festival It’s gonna be good!!

22nd to 24th September

T

he Town Centre and Seafront areas of Bognor Regis will be feasting on a superb array of great music, dance, and much more.

There will be a fantastic offering of free entertainment for locals and visitors to enjoy including the hugely popular Southdowns Ukulele Festival, the third scintillating 'Shanty Showdown', the Southdowns Dance Festival with a host of colourful dance groups, the new Southdowns Beer & Cider Festival, fascinating craft and market stalls, great music sessions, choirs, workshops, children’s entertainments and free events at eight different venues.

The Festival will be centred in and around the Waterloo Square area, with other venues including the William Hardwicke, the Hothampton Arms, the Dog & Duck, the RAFA Club, The Lamb (Steyne Street), Bonito Lounge in the London Road precinct plus Performance Area at the southern end of the precinct, and the newly refurbished Place St. Maur.

New for this year will be two exciting evening concerts under marquee in Waterloo Square on Friday and Saturday evenings. Kindly promoted by GB Music (Retail) in Aldwick Road, Bognor, the Friday concert will feature 3 Daft Monkeys with Ed Goodale and Friends supporting. Saturday evening will see the brilliant Jigantics taking the stage with support from Ashley Campbell (daughter of legend Glenn Campbell) with Thor Jenson.

Tickets for these concerts are available from GB Music.

For more information visit southdownsfolkfest.co.uk or call 07751 594285. For evening concert ticket bookings, go to gbmusicretail/collections/ events. from top: The Jigantics; Ashley Campbell with Thor Jensen; 3 Daft Monkeys

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Hailsham Festival 9th to 23rd September

T

he annual Festival is a celebration of both professional and amateur talent, creativity and imagination centred in Hailsham and the surrounding area, with events including art, music, dance, drama, creative writing, poetry and film. The Festival began in 2007 with the Art Trail which has grown in strength and diversity ever since, and is a rich showcase for local artistic talent and skill.

Highlights this year include an appearance at the Pavilion by acclaimed actor Jeffrey Holland (Hi de Hi) who will present his one-man show ‘and this is my friend, Mr Laurel’. Also at the Pavilion will be a chilling retelling of George Orwell’s seminal novel,

1984, and the singalong film version of Frozen to attract all ages. The Festival is also delighted to welcome Baroque Alchemy with world-class performers, Piers Adams and Lyndy Mayle.

Events will be held in venues across the town including performances by the Hailsham Choral Society, Hailsham Voices, Milton Hide, and The Jivebeats; from music to murder, with a gripping Murder Mystery; while on the fun side there’s Children’s Lego Building, Tango and Tapas, an evening of Burlesque, and the everpopular Nostalgia Fair.

Once again, members of the community will be invited to showcase their creative achievements in the Virtual Art Gallery, and the 2023 Poetry and Short Story Anthology will be available to buy as an e-book or as a printed edition from 9th September.

This year is the best ever! For further information visit www.hailshamfestival.co.uk. from top: Baroque Alchemy – Piers Adams and Lyndy Mayle; Mish Mash Morris; still from 1984

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

The 30th Tenterden Folk Festival 5th to 8th October

T

he full guest list for the 30th Tenterden Folk Festival has now been announced and includes a wide variety of traditional and contemporary folk singers and musicians.

First time visitors to Tenterden include the excellent Sound Tradition, a four piece a cappella harmony group, and young up and coming duo Brown Boots, Will Allen on melodeon and Martin Clarke on fiddle.

They will be appearing in some of the many concerts and other festival events. Also appearing for the first time will be Ceol Na Mara, who are Emma Clarke and Jim Richards, and will be playing on the Free Music Stage and leading an Irish music session.

Returning after a gap of several years will be Pete Coe, one of the top names on the English folk scene. Pete is a multi-instrumentalist playing Pete Coe melodeon, banjo and many other instruments and will also be calling for a barn dance with Swing the Bridge.

Free events will include crafts marquee and stalls, free music stage, dance stage, hundreds of Morris dancers, dance displays, procession, street entertainers, song and music sessions, etc. while ticketed events include concerts, barn dance, special shows, workshops, meet the guests, folk clubs etc. We already have an amazing list of hundreds of Morris dancers and other folk dance display teams confirmed for the Saturday and Sunday. Come and join us for a great weekend!

Visit www.tenterdenfolkfestival.org.uk for the full list of performers and all the Folk dancing at Tenterden Folk Festival info about the festival.

Sound Tradition

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Shoreham Wordfest 2023: Here and There 29th September to 15th October

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horeham-by-Sea’s annual festival of words and ideas starts with an immersive theatre trail, Tales of Shoreham: The Big Picture!

Journeying through Marlipins Museum, the oldest secular building in Sussex, you will meet characters from Shoreham’s history including its glamorous connection to the early film industry More original work is on offer with Idle Women, a new musical play based on the lives of women working on canals during World War Two, nicknamed 'Idle Women' due to their 'IW' – Inland Waterways – badges.

Shoreham Wordfest is one of the first festivals to hear the acclaimed poet and author Lemn Sissay reading from his brand-new poetry collection, Let the Light Pour In. Lemn will discuss his work with the audience including the award-winning memoir, My Name is Why. Best-selling authors Elly Griffiths and William Shaw host the second Fatal Shore Crime Writing Festival, featuring top authors Richard Osman, Nicci French and Kate Mosse. The whole day event has over twenty top crime writers, followed by an original who-dunnit play by Elly Griffiths in the evening.

Caitlin is a one-woman play about her stormy marriage with Dylan Thomas, and Shoreham-based actress and playwright Janet Behan celebrates the centenary of her Uncle Brendan’s plays and novels such as Borstal Boy. Shoreham Wordfest continues its sessions on topical issues.

Journalist Rafael Behr launches his new book Politics – A Survivor’s Guide, a masterclass in how to 'stay engaged without getting enraged'. Foreign correspondent Gabriel Gatehouse will discuss the increasingly complex and concerning international perspective.

There is much more in this year’s Shoreham Wordfest – author talks, walks, poetry and concerts. For full details of all twenty events please see our website: www.shorehamwordfest.com.

from top: Elly Griffiths; Lemn Sissay, photo © James Ross; Kate Mosse, photo © Ruth Crafer ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Harp on Wight International Festival Ryde, Isle of Wight 24th to 29th October

H

arp on Wight International celebrate their tenth annual festival with a spectacular line-up of harpists who will be both performing and teaching workshops at Ryde Methodist Church at the end of October.

One of the highlights of the festival will be a rare UK appearance from Remy Van Kesteren from The Netherlands – one of the most exciting and inventive harpists in the world today.

Two of Scotland's most respected harpists Corrina Hewat and Mary Macmaster will be at the festival. They were both former members of the highly-regarded harp/voice trio Shine. They will be giving a duo concert and also teaching separate workshops. It is fitting that Mary is returning to the festival as she played an important part in the first Harp on Wight in 2014.

Senegalese kora player Kadially Kouyate will be performing in the opening concert on the evening of 24th October.

To book tickets or for further information please visit www.harponwight.co.uk.

from top: Corrina Hewat, photo

by Lieve Boussauw; Kadially Kouyate; Remy Van Kesteren

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

Brighton Early Music Festival returns at full strength for Autumn 2023

B

righton Early Music Festival returns this autumn and will be offering a full programme of events across the city for the first time since 2019.

The 2023 programme under the theme of New Horizons kicks off in September with a series of preFestival events including opportunities to take part in workshops for singers and instrumentalists; concerts for families and even a community ceilidh.

The main Autumn Festival running Friday 13th to Saturday 28th October features the best early music performers from around the UK and Europe.

Highlights include Secret Byrd, a new immersive performance by The Gesualdo Six and Fretwork to celebrate the 400th anniversary of William Byrd; Fieri Consort and Musica Secreta showcasing music by female composers of the past; a programme of 14th century medieval enigmas from Italian ensemble La Fonte Musica; and the BREMF Players and Baroque Collective Singers presenting a programme of music by baroque giants Bach and Buxtehude for choir, orchestra and soloists.

From 16th September to 12th October there are pre-festival events including workshops and family concerts. Visit www.bremf.org.uk for full programme details and booking information.

top: Musica Secreta, photo ©Nick Rutter; above: Helen Charlston, mezzo-soprano, performing with Toby Carr, theorbo, at BREMF. Photo, ©Oscar Ortega

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

LeW eS

A rO Ue EsT 2 0 - 2 3 JULY J U LY2023 2022 19-22

ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH, 1 5 8 H I G H S T, L E W E S B N 7 1 X U

Red Priest • Alison Bury & Maggie Cole Sofia Ticciati, Kate Semmens, Steven Devine The Vauxhall Band • Paula Chateauneuf Splendours of Venice with The Baroque Collective Singers & His Majestys Sagbutts and Cornetts www.lewesbaroquefest.org lewesbaroquefest.org

https://www.harponwight.co.uk/

at HEVER CASTLE

MAY-AUGUST

FORTY

YEARS

THEATRE

IN

OF

THE

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ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

spotlight on... a feast of festivals

NEW HORIZONS 13-28 OCTOBER

Brighton Early Music Festival returns with events including Secret Byrd, an immersive performance by The Gesualdo Six & Fretwork; medieval gems with La Fonte Musica from Italy; family events and workshops.

See full details and book tickets (from 17 July) at bremf.org.uk BREMF

brightonearlymusic

brightonemf

brightonemf

Bernardi Music Group Proudly Present

g soon CominSUMMER

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES ‘23 CONCERT SERIES ‘23

Music to inspire and connect

SHIPLEY SHIPLEY ARTS ARTS FESTIVAL FESTIVAL 2023 2023

Bernardi Music Group Proudly Present

Coming soon

Bernardi Music Group

Bernardi Music Group Music to inspire and connect

The Bernardi Music Group return in 2023 with a series of concerts across the district as we continue to connect our The Bernardi through classical music. communities

Music Group return in 2023 Visit us online for festival dates, tickets & more. with a series of concerts across the district as we continue to connect our communities through classical music.

CHICHESTER & HORSHAM

www.bernardimusicgroup.com

Visit us online for festival dates, tickets & more.

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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spotlight on... a feast of festivals

SHOREHAM WORDFEST 30 SEPT - 15 OCT 2023 SONGS OF THE SEA: 24 SEPT

SHOREHAM SINGERS BY SEA

TALES OF SHOREHAM: 30 SEPT

THE BIG PICTURE THEATRE TRAIL

11 OCT INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES:

GABRIEL GATEHOUSE

12 OCT T.S.ELIOT’S THE WASTE LAND: PROF. PAMELA THURSCHWELL

TALES OF SHOREHAM:

1 OCT

THE NETTLE DRESS:

3 OCT

CAITLIN: ONE-WOMAN PLAY

4 OCT

NATIONAL POETRY DAY:

5 OCT

RICHARD OSMAN, NICCI FRENCH, KATE MOSSE & MANY MORE

6 OCT

ELLY GRIFFITHS & WILLIAM SHAW

THE BIG PICTURE THEATRE TRAIL FILM & TALK

SHOREHAM CHAMBER CHOIR

FOOTMARKS BY JIM LEARY: ARCHAEOLOGY TALK

MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR: BLOOMIN’ ARTS

RAFAEL BEHR

14 OCT FATAL SHORE CRIME WRITING FESTIVAL:

THE HOUSEBOAT OF DEATH:

15 OCT THE GREEN LADY: SALLY BAYLEY 7 OCT

MY POLICEMAN:

BETHAN ROBERTS

LEMN SISSAY: LET THE LIGHT POUR IN

NEW SALTS FARM WALK

13 OCT POLITICS, A SURVIVOR’S GUIDE:

FINALE CABARET:

8 OCT

KATE COLLIER, KATRINA PIKE & ALFONSO THE MAGNIFICENT

IDLE WOMEN:

MUSICAL THEATRE

BRENDAN BEHAN CENTENARY: 10 OCT JANET BEHAN

TICKE TS: WWW.SHOREHAMWORDFEST.COM/ WHATS-ON 24 SHOREHAM ingénu/e ART magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40MARKE T JULY 8, AUGUST 12 & SEPT 9 | SHOREHAM GALLERY FARMERS’

spotlight on... a feast of festivals

11-18 AUGUST 2023 FOLK MUSIC BY THE SEA SE T H L A K E M A N | L A D Y M A I S E R Y | T IM E DE Y G R A N N Y ' S A T T I C | T H E J E R E M I A H S | U R BA N F O L K Q U A R T E T H O M E S E R V I C E | B A N T E R | T H E O F TE N H E RD | R A N A G R I H A R M O N I A | H O N E Y & T H E B E AR | W I L L P A G E | P A T A K A S TH E H I L L T O P C E I L I D H B A N D | C O R A C L E | W I N T E R W I L S O N K AT I E S P E N C E R | S U N T O U S U S S O | C L U B D E B R I S T H E R E L E N T L E S S C E I L I D H B A N D | J ON WI L K E S | N I C K D O W D A VE EL LI S & B O O H O W A R D | S U T H E R I N G | D AN S E A L E Y B E N & D O M | W I L D W O O D J A C K | WI L L A L L E N M AL C O L M M A C W A T T | E L V I S F O N T E N OT & T H E S U G A R B E E S S H A K E M E U P S A L L Y | J O H N & D I C ULL E N | B E C K Y S Y S O N ANGELINE MORRISON | BOB KENWARD PLUS MANY MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED! C O N C E RT S . C E I L I D H S . W O R K S H O P S . C H I L D R E N ’ S F E S T I V A L D A N C E S . C R A F T & M U S I C F A I R . F E S T I VA L C A M P S I T E

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! W W W. B R O A D S TA I R S F O L K W E E K . O R G . U K

BOX OFFICE: 01843 604080

The 30th

Tenterden folk festival

Tenterden, the Jewel of the Weald

Thursday 5thto Sunday 8th October 2023

Guests will include: Brown Boots (Will Allen & Martin Clarke) Ceol Na Mara (Emma Clarke and Jim Richards) Dick Miles, Discovery (Jeff & Elaine Gillett) Drywood (Denise Dryburgh and Phil Underwood) Erin Mansfield, Keith Kendrick & Sylvia Needham Mary Hollins, Mick Ryan & Paul Downes Morrigan, Milton Hide (Jim and Josie Tipler) Pete Coe, Pip Ives, Sheila Park, Sound Tradition, Steve Turner, Swing the Bridge with caller Pete Coe Plus Regular and local guests Plus up to 50 Morris sides and dance display teams Many events are FREE

Tenterden Folk Festival: Charity No. 1038663 ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

Artgenu/e

by Lesley Samms

What’s the Story?

Artists talking about their unique journey In this issue we talk to artist Carole Bury who creates fine art paper textiles and drawings. Her imaginative paper structures are designed and crafted using embroidery and constructional techniques, which have a beauty, depth and quietness. Carole is Artist in Residence at The Beauport House Gallery, Bannatyne Hotel until 10th September.

Please could you tell us a little about your background?

I was born and went to school in rural south Gloucestershire. I lived with my parents, older brother and grandma. The home was filled with music, carpentry, dressmaking, gardening and a wonderful attitude of making and adapting.

Did you have an interest in art as a child? And did you have a formal art education or are you self-taught?

I grew up surrounded by parents who every day used cloth, wood, music and enjoyed gardening. I

used a Singer sewing machine to make clothes for my dolls at seven or eight years old and I made clothes all through my teenage years.

As well as studying Art at A level, an A Level course in Needlework was established and run just for me, which I passed with distinction. My teacher, Barbara, has remained in contact with me over the years.

I moved to Cheltenham for the Foundation year at the College of Art and was accepted to Manchester to take a wonderful three-year degree course in Fine Art Textiles/Embroidery at the Polytechnic.

Was there a person or a place in your past that influenced you or you feel set you on the journey to where you are now?

Definitely Mum and Dad, but also my drawing tutor at Manchester who pushed, and pushed me, stretching my visual vocabulary. Anne Morrell, Head of Department, saw beyond the gawky young woman, and provided me with my own studio when my experiments with latex, glass fibre and resins became too unbearable for the other students. She introduced me to Constance Howard and so many wonderful practitioners. It was Anne and Isabel Dibden who introduced me to the 62 Group. I was an active member for about fifteen years and we witnessed Textiles breaking barriers in the art world. We gained exhibitions in major galleries in the UK and sent a comprehensive exhibition out to Japan.

What’s the best thing about being an artist?

I can elevate my dreams to visual reality, I do not have to conform, or follow someone else’s terms.

What has inspired or influenced you?

My family, friends, faith, walking. The creation I see around me and in front of me, and in the wider world just gets my creative juices flowing. There are artists who help me open my eyes like Hockney, van Gogh, and recently re-visiting the work practice of Cézanne was illuminating.

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visual arts & contemporary crafts What international art destination do you most want to visit?

The drawings of van Gogh in the Amsterdam Rijksmuseum and the van Gogh Museum; paper factories and galleries in Japan.

What work of art would you most like to own?

I recently saw the work of Ruth Asawa in the Museum of Modern Art in Oxford, I wouldn’t mind one of her hanging sculptures, and a large calm, monochrome Welsh quilt. I’m poring over Agnes Martin at the moment.

Please tell us about your working environment.

The Studio is built onto the side of the house and I particularly enjoy my short commute to work. It is light-filled and quiet. I have wide bookshelves full of art and textile inspiration. And I enjoy listening to Radio 4 and music. All the admin part of my practice is done in the study in the house.

The Studio spills into the garden, which is private and surrounded by tall trees and 'garden rooms'.

The secret gate in the fence leads into our allotment, and this borders open arable fields and woods.

The four words I would use to describe my Studio are Visionary. Reflective. Intimate. Liberating What's the most indispensable item in your studio?

Quiet. Light. Space. Trustworthy workhorse – a 43-year-old Bernina sewing machine.

Please tell us a little of the processes involved in making your art?

Everything begins by looking, feeling and drawing.

Learning to understand and altering a viewpoint.

Eliminating details and processing the essential.

As an embroiderer, I will research traditional techniques, and this will usually start a 3 Dimen-

sional textural journey. Years ago I chose paper over fabric in order to combine drawn marks and a surface.

I am slowly needing to take stock of this direction the work is moving towards. I am discovering it is a slow methodical path to allow the two to become one.

New framing solutions are becoming necessary for the 3 Dimensional pleated work, and all this takes time and energy. I have been working with a small engineering company, which is way out of my normal comfort zone.

Where are you finding ideas and inspiration for your work currently?

Trees. Fields. Blossoms. Growth… all feed my eyes, my brain and my well-being.

If you weren’t an artist what would you be?

I am an artist, therefore I am unable to be anything else. As I love gardening and sewing I guess one of them would have been my occupation.

What advice would you give to those aspiring to make a living out of art?

Listen to yourself, stay true to your dreams and never be afraid of hard work. Ask questions and advice of those artists, practitioners and friends whom you trust. The business part is challenging, but fun, and there are skilful professionals you can use, and pay to help you. Always out-source those processes that prevent you creating.

To read the full interview with Carole please go to www.pureartsgroup.co.uk. See her work at the Bannatyne Hotel, Hastings, and for more information visit www.carolebury.com. c/w from opp top: Carole Bury in her Studio; Gentle Protection, feathers paper textile; Feathers Shield, paper textile; The Back Lane, pencil drawing

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

original work by 25 local artists and makers The Lighthouse Gallery Eastbourne fabulous coffee, cake and snacks 19 Cornfield Terrace, BN21 4NS unusual plant gifts 07748354879. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm https://www.facebook.com/The-Lighthouse-Gallery-109961087991355 https://www.instagram.com/lighthousegalleryeastbourne/ Find us on Facebook and Instagram life drawing classes

“A treasure trove of delights”

TRIPADVISOR REVIEW

ArtSpring Gallery is an artist-run cooperative art gallery in Tonbridge, showcasing a collection of high quality fine art, jewellery, glass and ceramic work by local emerging and professional contemporary artists.

www.artspringgallery.co.uk artspringgallery.co.uk

Find us on social media: @artspringallery

167 High Street, Tonbridge TN9 1BX Open Wed – Sat, 11am – 4pm

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ArtSpring Gallery Stories of Inspiration

The ArtSpring Gallery in Tonbridge is a collective of thirteen talented painters, potters, jewellers, printers and glassworkers.

Each artist has followed their own individual path, and works in a different way, but one thing unites them all – a desire to bring passion and inspiration into the world.

Lucinda Bothwell‘s paintings, for example, express the love she feels for the East Sussex landscape where she lives.

“My paintings are almost always dominated by my chief inspiration,” she says, “the ever-changing, awe inspiring sky.”

Potter Jane Bridger draws inspiration from the ceramics of ancient Persia and China, as well as the world around us.

“Most of my work is thrown on the wheel and is classical in form”, says Jane. “I love the incredible potential of glazes, decorating and firing techniques.”

Gill Smith’s passion for textiles is rooted in her family history she thinks, as both her mother and grandmother were skilled needlewomen. But her work has grown from these roots and today she mixes painting, needlework and found objects in

her work.

She says “I’m always looking for that new experience, to bring new things into my work”.

These three artists exemplify the ArtSpring spirit. If you would like to see more of their work and the creations of the other ArtSpring artists do come along to the gallery.

A warm welcome – and inspiration – is guaranteed!

For more information about the Artspring artists and their work visit www.artspringgallery.co.uk top: Lucinda Bothwell, Scotland iii, oil on canvas; above: Gillian Smith, Midsummer Meadows – Fox & Fireflies, mixed media; left: Jane Bridger, Summer Clouds ceramic bowl

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visual arts & contemporary crafts will be holding a series of talks and events in the coming months. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep updated.

We are open from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Don’t just trot by en route to The Towner, stop by and see us, and find out what Eastbourne’s talented artists and makers have to offer!

The Lighthouse Gallery, 19 Cornfield Terrace, BN21 4NS. Open Tues-Sat, 10-4pm.

07748 354879 @lighthousegalleryeastbourne

THE LIGHTHOUSE GALLERY

Lighting Up the Local Art Scene Since opening almost two years ago, The Lighthouse Gallery on Cornfield Terrace in Eastbourne has gone from strength to strength, building a strong community base of loyal customers, and attracting visitors from far and wide.

At its heart is the ethos of supporting local artists and makers, giving them the opportunity to showcase their work in a beautiful period building where the atmosphere is relaxed and informal and the welcome is warm!

The artwork is served up alongside fabulous coffee and amazing cakes, locally produced by The Coach House Bakery. The walls are lined with a wide variety of stunning paintings, many inspired by our spectacular local landscape. That inspiration spills over into many of the ceramic pieces, the glasswork, textiles and sometimes even the jewellery!

With the upcoming arrival of the Turner Prize at The Towner, it’s a very exciting time to be involved in the art scene in Eastbourne.

As an independent gallery we are looking forward to the opportunity to bring the work of the local artists we represent to a much broader audience. An influx of art-loving visitors to our town is a cause of celebration for everyone involved in Eastbourne Arts.

The Lighthouse Gallery will be out on the road taking part in the Little Chelsea Food and Arts Festival on July 8th. We host workshops and demonstrations throughout the year and

top: Sonya Tatham, Apple and Pears , original mixed media, and Susan Ramsay-Smith, Weald Clay Vessels; above: Julie Snowball, Ceramic Boat, and Blue River Scarf

by Suesie Seedpod; below: Jennifer Bisset, Beyond The Blue Horizon, oil on canvas

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ART CRANBROOK SHOW Thursday 9 NOVEMBER • 10 - 5 Friday 10 • 10 - 7 & Saturday 11 • 10 - 5

VESTRY HALL • Cranbrook • Kent • TN17 3HA

www.cranbrookartshow.org.uk

The Personal Mark An exhibition of stimulating work by six painters and one sculptor 16–28 August 2023 • The Horsebridge Arts Centre 11 Horsebridge Road, Whitstable, Kent, CT5 1AF www.thehorsebridge.org.uk Mon–Sat 9am–5pm (closed Tues) Sun 10am–4pm

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CA Horsebridge flyer v4.indd 4

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

The Personal Mark Six painters and one sculptor will be offering an experience of high quality, challenging and deeply felt work at an exhibition at the Horsebridge Centre in Whitstable from 16th to 28th August.

Drawing, painting and sculpting are intensely personal activities where each artist’s personality and vision are expressed directly through the marks they make.

Often the things the artists in this exhibition create are `beyond words´. The experiences they convey and share cannot be reduced to statements or explanations.

Rather they reach for the ambiguities of experience – between light and dark, rough and smooth, joy and sorrow, here and there, order and chaos.

Artist Julie Frampton, for example, wants her work “to have a vibration as when the wind disturbs the surface of water”.

Colin Anderson strives “to bring out the strangeness and ambiguity of places that may seem ordinary, but take on a heightened life in my imagination”. While Nick Hebditch loves

“the possibilities of mark making and textures that are encountered through the act of painting”.

Don’t miss this powerful exhibition!

The Horsebridge Arts Centre, 11 Horsebridge Road, Whitstable, CT5 1AF. Open 9am–5pm Monday to Saturday (closed Tuesdays), 10am–4pm Sunday. www.thehorsebridge.org.uk

c/w from top artwork by: Joanna Plachcinska; Julie Frampton; Nick Hebditch; Colin Anderson

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Could your artwork be in

CHALK GALLERY? Chalk member, Katharine Rabson Stark tells us more.

“It wasn’t until recently that I discovered that Chalk Gallery in Lewes offers opportunities for local artists to show their work. I had been aware of Chalk as a valued fixture on the Lewes art scene, I just didn’t think that I could become part of it.

It must be one of the county’s best kept secrets.

Chalk is run as an artist-led gallery and I’m delighted to tell you that we have a few vacant places, so you too could be part of this amazing venture.

Chalk was established almost twenty years ago and has always been a gallery for Sussex artists to showcase their affordable artwork in a permanent space in Lewes. The gallery accommodates approximately seventy works for all types of art and is a friendly but professionally-presented space with a rolling display of work refreshed every eight weeks.

I came to art somewhat later in life and, as for many of us, found the hardest thing was working out how and where to sell my work. Since becoming a member of Chalk, I have sold a lot of work, have reached new audiences and importantly am now part of an enriching network of artist colleagues which is invaluable in developing myself as a professional artist. I am also

Katharine Rabson Stark, smoke fired earthenware pots

learning all about how to run a gallery, since every member takes a share in the responsibilities whether it be finance, IT, marketing, or maintenance.

Applying to be a member of Chalk is one of the best things I have done as an artist, and I would encourage the artists amongst you to take the plunge. Drop into the gallery Thursday to Sunday between 11am and 4pm for a chat – one of our members is always available, check out our website, or email us to find out more. We look forward to hearing from you!” www.chalkgallerylewes.co.uk submissions.chalkgallery@outlook.com

West End House Gallery West End House Gallery is a contemporary gallery in the heart of beautiful Smarden, Kent, run by two local artists, Karen Papworth and Patricia Hawkins (Spike and Pia).

The gallery shows a wide range of original artworks including paintings,

prints, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery and glass. The gallery hosts two to three themed exhibitions a year and at all other times has an eclectic mixed display showcasing work by the gallery artists and makers.

Buying art needn't be scary or intimidating, so the aim is to make the gallery a warm and friendly space with inspiring work, at all prices.

Everyone is welcome and the gallery is fully accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair users.

You are invited to visit the gallery on the weekend of 22nd & 23rd July for Pimm’s to celebrate the start of the summer show, which continues until 18th September.

For full information visit www.westendhousegallery.co.uk left: Scarlett Woodman, Ash

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

THE ATTIC ART CLUB The Attic Art Club of Ditchling is delighted to join this special celebration issue of ingénu/e magazine with news of the club's second annual exhibition on the last weekend in August.

Hundreds of you came to the May show and again the club's 35 professional and semiprofessional artists would like to welcome everyone to Ditchling's friendly and spacious village hall, 25th-28th August, to see the wide variety of work on sale, from that big painting

for a bare wall, a stunning sculpture for the garden or a wide range of original cards and prints.

Doors open at midday on Friday and you can join us for a glass of wine and canapés that evening from 6-8pm and meet some of the artists.

The Attic Club has been going since 1939 and its selected artists continue to maintain its reputation for quality and high standards in all its art forms. Like the title of this magazine, there is no shortage of 'ingenuity' in the pieces of work on display.

Fri to Mon 25 to 28 August; Friday 12 noon to 8pm (preview 6-8pm).

Other days 10am5pm. Parking: free at the hall and around the village, and at the new car park on Keymer Road (towards Hassocks).

Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and at: www. from top left: Alison Sibley, Mixed Media; atticartclub.co.uk.

Wendy Standen, Queen Elizabeth II; Chris Dawson, Mug Shots

Esther Newnham-Brown My journey as an artist started from a very early age, the age of five in fact!

You can view my work at Gallery BN5 at any time or at Borde Hill Gardens during August, where I will be exhibiting with some of my fellow artists.

Esther Newnham-Brown, Waterlily

I was always encouraged to draw by my grandfather and father, and then once at senior school I had a fantastic art teacher who encouraged me further into doing my art ‘O’ level a year early, much to my mother’s astonishment – she told me she didn’t want me to be “a drop out artist”! Encouragement indeed.

It just made me continue with my paints through a totally different career from that which I had hoped to do. Now I pursue that chosen path, encouraged by my husband and family; from tentatively exhibiting to now running a small gallery in Henfield, Gallery BN5, with a group of fellow artists who exhibit regularly or now and then, https://gallerybn5.co.uk.

Artistic journeys can start at whatever age, and sometimes they are an accidental occurrence which brings enjoyment and satisfaction to life. In my book, you are never too old to start any project, and sometimes you may not have realised that you had a talent until someone else points it out to you. ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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Gill Bustamante Artist and Art Tutor www.gillbustamante.com

www.facebook.com/GillBustamanteArtist www.etsy.com/uk/shop/SussexPaintings

Firey Florals by Esther Newnham Brown Firey Florals by Esther Newnham Brown Oils and Acrylic work on display at Oils and AcrylicBN5 workHenfield on display at Gallery Gallery BN5 Henfield Contact esther@gallerybn5.co.uk 07725 044897 Contact esther@gallerybn5.co.uk 07725 044897

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

West End House

Art Gallery

Contemporary gallery in beautiful Smarden. A glorious mix of artworks at all prices from artists near and far www.westendhousegallery.co.uk Best Art Gallery in Kent Winner

Water Lane, Smarden, TN27 8QB, 01233 770261 email: girls@westendhousegallery.co.uk

. the little art gallery .....

A contemporary gallery space between city and sea showcasing local artists.

Gift vouchers available. Opening times may vary, check website for details. We are always happy to open at other times by request.

West Wittering, West Sussex PO20 8LT 01243 512218 www.thelittleartgallery.online Mom, How Did You Meet The Beatles ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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the

little art gallery west wittering

Summer is a great time for artists to recharge their batteries and get out to the coast or into the countryside to give them inspiration for their next works.

Living as we do on the South Coast the large skies and beautiful sunsets are just waiting to be interpreted into paintings, printmaking and ceramics. Not always obvious to everyone but nature, light and colour can enhance our mood and change our perspective.

We are delighted to be able to offer work by Nadia Day. Nadia creates large impressionist paintings of our beautiful coastline bursting with energy and a unique style. Her unique selling point is that she can paint your family figures into the scene, or even a boat if you have one. We have a selection of her stunning work, both originals and prints, in the gallery at all times, alongside work by our other talented artists.

Summer is bringing back our regular seasonal visitors, it is always such a pleasure to see old friends. For two weeks in September, from 3rd to 20th, we will be closing the Gallery but we are always happy to open at other times by request. Please check our website for opening times and contact us if you are visiting the area when we have not set a dedicated opening time. www.thelittleartgallery.online paintings by Nadia Day – top: Dog Walkers, Wittering; left: Resting Boats; below: East Head

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SHOREHAM ART GALLERY Summer Sizzlers!

A celebration of colour, tactile textures and things to make you smile can be found at Shoreham Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden with an amazing and diverse selection of work by its twenty-four members plus monthly guest artists on show over the next few months.

In July we showcased work by silversmith Eve Claire Taylor who uses different techniques to highlight the beautiful silver decorative objects she creates such as fold forming, etching and enameling, especially with tableware including spoons and candlesticks.

August guest is Carrie Donohoe, a contemporary textile artist whose work reflects her lifelong love of embroidery, textiles and fascination with mixed media techniques. Carrie’s exciting experiments with texture and colour effects, alongside hand and machine embroidery skills, are incorporated in her decorative handcrafted accessories, books and more.

We are featuring Edwin Locke in September, furniture maker extraordinaire, with his range of beautiful items to enhance the home, and in October we welcome back popular ceramicist, Jola Spytkowska, as guest artist with her quirky, colourful and unique pieces; mini beasts, bags of character, ceramic creatures and planters. Collectors of Jola’s work will be delighted.

For more about what’s going on at Shoreham Art

Gallery, plus workshops and other events, visit www.shorehamgallery.co.uk/news/ or subscribe to our monthly newsletter. Our friendly gallery can be found just south of Shoreham-by-Sea station and is open every day with a wide range of original work, all very reasonably priced. We look forward to seeing you soon. top: Jola Spytkowska, Trumpet Bird. raku; far left: Edwin Locke, table and stools; left: Carrie Donohoe, mixed media and machine embroidered brooches; bottom: Jola Spytkowska, Water Pump Dog

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

Littlehampton Museum Open Art Exhibition (“Plastic”) call for submissions

aiming for a representation of all mediums, alongside wide-ranging variations on the theme. The result should be a diverse medley of creations, promising an interesting and thought-provoking display for the viewer.

Get creative and we look forward to seeing the results!

The deadline for submissions is 9th October.

Littlehampton Museum OPEN Preview 2014

Littlehampton Museum is thrilled to announce that the OPEN art exhibition will be back for 2023. This hugely popular annual exhibition is returning for its tenth show, opening on 11th November this year.

We are now calling amateur and professional artists, of all ages, from the Sussex area to create work on this year’s chosen topic: Plastic.

As ever, people of all artistic abilities and mediums are welcomed, giving everybody the chance to create artwork which could be included in the final exhibition.

Submission forms and a copy of the Terms and Conditions are available on the Museum’s website, www.littlehamptonmuseum.co.uk, or in person from the Museum reception desk.

Artwork will be selected from the submissions

We are inviting people of all ages from the Sussex area to submit artwork based on the theme of Plastic For terms & conditions, entry fees, important dates and entry forms please visit: littlehamptonmuseum.co.uk

Littlehampton Museum, Manor House, Church Street, BN17 5EW e: museum@littlehampton-tc.gov.uk 40

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16/05/2023 10:06:40

visual arts & contemporary crafts You're a keen sketcher, why do you feel drawing is so important?

Drawing is a fabulous therapy. It trains the eye, calms the mind and helps you to focus in a way that normal everyday life does not allow. Computers, mobiles and other electronic media are continuously interrupting our thoughts and demanding our attention. It drives me nuts, personally. If you can ignore it all for a while and go look at things to sketch them, I guarantee you will feel better.

Gill Bustamante artist

Sussex artist, art tutor and regular ingénu/e contributor Gill Bustamante is in her element in summer and is busy creating her gorgeous colourful canvases. She stops to chat...

Many of your paintings reference specific locations around Sussex, what draws you to this landscape?

I love the ancientness of England and Sussex, which being in the south, is where many invasions began. The Romans, Normans, Vikings, Saxons etc have all left their marks along with the residents and I love that much of Sussex still has preserved bits of former residents. Apart from that – I already live here and so it is easy to visit!

You seem to have a tremendous output, do you paint every day? And if so, do you have a specific regimen?

I paint two or three times a week usually for three to five hours at a time. I time it around whatever the weather is doing as I tend to go walking when the sun is out. Much of my painting occurs after walking somewhere and so the two things work in tandem.

Your paintings reflect a love affair with colour, has that always been the case?

Yes. 'Dirty' colours like browns and muddy greens and black have their place and I am happy to wear them as they help me look thinner. However, I prefer to amplify the colours that are all around us rather than subdue them.

You originally went to art school in Brighton to study sculpture, why the switch to painting, and how has your artistic journey developed since then?

I switched to painting as there are only so many sculptures you can store in your attic without it caving in. I'm afraid it was logistical. Having left college, I did not have the resources to pay for storage, materials, transport of sculptures etc. Painting is lovely for very different reasons and at the end of the day, those with a creative nature are happy to use whatever mediums they can find to express what they wish to and I am no exception.

What advice would you give to your student self?

Stay away from drugs altogether as they reduce your energy and ability to see things (not the opposite as some dealers and the naive would like us to believe).

And don't get your hair permed or let your cat sleep on your head (but that's another story...)

Gill Bustamante – Artist and Art Tutor www.gillbustamante.com M: 07815 036576 pictured above: Gill Bustamante, Nature's Harmony

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

“I’ve always been a painter…”

We interview rock legend

Woody Woodmansey about his rediscovered purpose

What a treat! We spent a few hours over a sunny summer lunchtime interviewing Woody Woodmansey about how he rediscovered his love for art and his new found ‘second career’ as an artist.

Perhaps best known for being the drummer at the heart of David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, we discovered there is a lot more to the man than rock music once you go beneath the surface.

We wanted to get down to discussing his new found love of art but we just had to begin talking about music, Bowie and the forthcoming release of D.A. Pennebaker’s remastered and reedited film of the band

performing at the Hammersmith Odeon in 1973, the last gig Bowie and the band ever played together. As you might imagine, Woody has been much in demand for interviews, as July is the 50th anniversary of this famous event and the new film is scheduled for a global release in July.

He is also halfway through recording a new album with Joe Elliot and Phil Collen of Def Leppard fame.

But now onto the art... and what a story unfolds.

As it turns out, when Woody was a young lad in Yorkshire, he used to paint a lot and write poetry.

He had a couple of good art teachers and would also spend hours teaching himself about art. He painted in the evenings and was much impressed that his Auntie, who visited now and again, would regularly ask if she could have one of his paintings. This happened every couple of months or so. He was working in oils and felt very acknowledged that someone loved his art. He thought he had his first collector.

Fifteen years later he discovered she had been taking them to Hull and selling them but never told him!

Art was his passion and he thought this would be his career. In his very early teens he won an art competition, the prize being a scholarship to a prestigious London art college. His parents, however, being ‘solid’ northerners, decided he needed a proper job so that didn’t come to pass.

Strange how these things turn out, because then music came along. He had been teaching himself the drums and had started to play in a few local bands.

Then one day he received a phone call from David Bowie who needed a drummer... and the rest is history!

Sadly Woody lost his lovely wife June before the beginning of the covid pandemic. They had been 42

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visual arts & contemporary crafts together forever, childhood sweethearts. June had an interest in art and a few years earlier Woody had bought her some art materials, which she had not got around to using.

At some point he picked up these materials and started painting again. He re-studied art history and certain artists and techniques he came across began to inspire him, relating, as they did, to what he was trying to do with his work. The Fauvist movement caught his attention. It was similar to what he was trying to achieve and at one transformative moment during this period he realised ‘I’ve always been a painter’ and began to paint again in earnest. This artistic search and discovery turned out to be very therapeutic and helped him through such a devastating period in his life.

Woody was influenced by the Japanese culture, having toured there many times as a musician, and he loved the simplicity of form prevalent in the culture. He also came across an article dealing with Magical Realism. It was referring to some literary work, but the concept made sense and stayed with him. He realised that this was ‘his thing’ – it all started to fit together for him and he has been turning out work regularly ever since.

At the time of writing, the new Art page on his website is nearing completion and will feature his artworks and latest collections. With riots of colour being the recurring theme his paintings include figurative work and landscapes. He is currently focussing on portraits and has a new collection of stunning portraits completed which will be exhibited on the website.

He also has many other pieces of work completed awaiting their release. Some galleries have already shown interest in Woody's work and it seems this new venture is now heading down the runway and is due for take-off any moment.

We asked about his purpose as an artist. He told us “I’m trying to produce an aesthetic piece of work that communicates and creates a resonance within someone, causing someone to look at something from a different point of view”.

We ended off the interview discussing the potential influence of AI on the field of art and, somewhat surprisingly, Woody has a positive attitude towards it, comparing the worry artists might have to the panic that occurred when photography first came on the scene. He feels people need to be left to make up their own mind about it. In the final analysis it is a choice that can only be made by the artist and the viewer or purchaser.

Visit www.woodywoodmansey.com to find out all about Woody’s art and music. top left: Woody Woodmansey; from his new collection, left to right: Play Colour; Happy Days; Constant Alertness

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visual arts & contemporary crafts

www.hastingscontemporary.org

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TOWNER Eastbourne Towner Eastbourne is hosting the final iteration of Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life, a blockbuster show which has already garnered rave reviews across the country after visits to Wakefield, Edinburgh and St Ives.

Opening with an introduction to Barbara Hepworth’s work, revealing the three sculptural forms she returned to repeatedly throughout her career, the exhibition includes some of the artist’s most celebrated sculptures, from modern abstract carving to large-scale pieces in bronze, wood and marble.

Hepworth’s deeply personal connection to her own work is also highlighted through archive material, photographs, paintings and drawings. The show explores lesser-known elements of her career, such as her friendship with physicist J D Bernal, her iconic Hospital Drawings of the 1940s and her fascination with the Space Race in the 1960s.

Get to know Hepworth on a deeper level and gain an insight into her enduring ability to express essential human experiences, from interpersonal relationships to our connection to the world around us.

The exhibition will be on display at Towner until 3rd September. Tickets £6.00 to £12.00, free for Towner Members. Visit www.townereastbourne.org.uk

Barbara Hepworth at work on the plaster for Single Form

www.townereastbourne.org.uk

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art trails & open studios S

ummer is now in full swing, full of balmy days and long evenings. It is the perfect time of year to explore the heady abundance of creativity as, in towns and villages all over, artists and makers display their work in art trails and open studios events; from Artwave in the east of our region, celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, to the western reaches where the MADhurst Art Trail showcases the work of Midhurst artists. This is particularly significant as Midhurst was virtually cut off for three months due to a fire. The town is now fully open again, happily, and welcoming visitors – notable places to visit are The Midhurst Gallery (see ad p.52) where you can also find great quality art materials, and Mantis Art Studio & Gallery (see p.93). So grab your diaries and read on.

Artwave marks 30th year with record number of exhibitions 2nd to 17th September

A

rtwave is celebrating its 30th anniversary and this year’s festival of creativity is set to be the biggest in its history.

Running over three weekends from 2nd to 17th September, Artwave will feature artwork from more than 1000 creatives at over 180 exhibitions across Lewes, Newhaven, Seaford and the surrounding villages. The event offers the opportunity to visit artists’ private homes, studios and see art in more unusual locations such as farms, train stations and a windmill!

When Artwave began in 1993, the festival featured the work of 70 artists across 18 events and has steadily grown to become a popular fixture in the region’s cultural calendar.

Carole Buchan, who organised the first ever Artwave, said her aim as Lewes District Council's first arts officer was “to make the arts accessible to all. It is now a highlight of the cultural year with around a hundred venues open for three weekends in September, attracting visitors from all over the south”.

Visit www.artwavefestival.org for more details about Artwave 2023.

top: Helen Brown, The Sea Over Land, lino cut; opp top: Irene Marot, Into the Blue Together (both Celebrate Cuckmere Haven); above: St. Andrews Place Art School – Artwave Lewes trail; left: Ian O'Halloran – Artwave Rural trail

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art trails & open studios

Celebrate

Cuckmere Haven an Artwave exhibition

T

he third annual Celebrate Cuckmere Haven Artwave exhibition is once again being held at one of England's most beautiful venues, South Hill Barn, Seaford, from 2nd to 17th September.

The over 420 submissions showed an intriguing variety of interpretations of this year’s theme, ‘Wide Blue Spaces’. (Exposure to water in all its forms, known as Blue Spaces, has been shown to improve our happiness and our health, both mental and physical.)

It was a challenge to narrow down such a wonderful collection to under 100 works which include not just paintings and sculpture but photographs, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and furniture. It must be one of Art Wave's largest and most diverse exhibitions. The exhibition benefits from the thousands of visitors to this iconic location.

Demonstrations, workshops and evening events are held throughout September. Dr. Catherine Kelly,

author of Blue Spaces: How and Why Water Can Make You Feel Better, will be discussing her research experience in the areas of wellbeing and blue spaces.

Seaweed: The Breath of Life is another all day and evening event. Seaweed is extraordinarily beautiful, profoundly interesting and important, and so few people know this. Not only does 70% of the oxygen we breathe come from seaweed, this ocean flora is an element in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, science, industrial products, as well as being a dazzling natural art form with exquisite colour and extraordinary forms.

The shop sells a variety of cards, prints and smaller artworks while refreshments are available from the courtyard coffee and food van.

The show is run entirely by volunteers and all the profit goes to the charity www.cuckmerehavensos.org, to help preserve this very special seascape.

See the website for further details and queries. www.celebratecuckmerehaven.co.uk.

Vee Pease, Semi precious bead necklace with sterling silver leaves

Vee Pease

in Hampshire Open Studios 19th to 28th August

W

Susie Hartly, Isabella, stoneware ceramic with rich blue glaze

est Sussex jeweller Vee Pease will be taking part in Hampshire Open Studios with her painter mother, Ferelith Molteno. The artists will be exhibiting their work at North End Studios, Broughton, SO20 8AN, in the Romsey/Stockbridge area.

Ferelith Molteno has travelled extensively in India, drawing and painting the landscape, buildings and people wherever she goes. She paints predominantly in watercolour, using collage and pen and ink. Ferelith also produces handmade cards, often with an Indian theme, but also British scenes and still life.

Vee makes sterling silver jewellery with semi precious stones. She is inspired by the nature and changing seasons of the South Downs, where she walks

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art trails & open studios regularly. Travelling in Pakistan, India, Turkey and Morocco have also influenced Vee’s designs.

When Vee was a child, she and her sister spent happy hours painting, drawing and making with Ferelith. They still paint together whenever they can.

The artists will be exhibiting in their garden studio from 19th to 28th August, 10am-5pm every day. For all details go to https://hampshireopenstudios.org.uk.

Arundel Gallery Trail 19th - 28th August

T

his year, our 34th, sees the Trail reinvigorated with a big increase in artist numbers as well as a smattering of new venues. The Trail takes place from 19th28th August from 12-5 daily and is part of Arundel Festival of the Arts, a ten day festival of music, arts and crafts, theatre, and family entertainment.

The Trail is easy to navigate, largely taking place in central Arundel, but please take the time to visit the three out of town venues at Walberton and Ford as well as those on the outskirts of the town. Entry is free, as is a printed guide available from many outlets in the town as well as all the Trail venues which are indicated

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by yellow and blue flags. The Trail’s ethos has always been one of inclusivity, so you will find professional artists alongside those who create part time, but all of whom are happy to share their artistic experience.

Much of the art on show is available to purchase, but whether you are seeking something for your home or are an appreciative art lover, there is much to see and be inspired by.

Also, the popular Secret Artist Auction will again be taking place. Trail artists and invited others submit a 30 x 30cm panel on which they paint anything they like. These are exhibited at the Victoria Institute on Tarrant Street and can be bid on in person or online during the Trail. If outbid, we'll let you know, giving you the opportunity to bid again. Artists do not sign their work and their identity is only revealed at the end of the Trail to the winning bidder.

We very much hope you enjoy your visit and look forward to meeting you... www.arundelgallerytrail.co.uk www.arundelfestival.co.uk

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art trails & open studios pictured opp, c/w from top left: Jorgen Christiansen, Stopham Bridge; Josse Davis, ceramic dogs; Barnaby Ash and Dru Plumb at Gallery 57; Jo Dowers, Moonlit Downs

Susie Olford

in Arundel Gallery Trail 19th - 28th August

S

ummer is here – we hope. The pinnacle of Summer Art Trails in August is in the planning – Arundel Gallery Trail’s 34th year; why not take a walk around the town centre to visit 75 artists in interesting buildings. My venue is the glorious and special Arundel Cathedral where my oil and acrylic paintings can be seen along the north aisle, gently lit by the high southern windows. Softness or colour in a contemporary way is my style – you might see something you cannot take your eyes off! Easy to find atop the hill are my bright banners on the wrought iron surrounding the Cathedral. A collection of humorous wine cards is always to hand. Pastel artist Julie Burnett-Kirk will exhibit on the south aisle. Arundel will be vibrant during the ten-day Festival which includes a Theatre Trail.

All in all a treat not to be missed.

We look forward to seeing you during our Cathedral exhibiting hours from Saturday 19th to Bank Holiday Monday 28th August, Mon to Sat 10.45-17.00, and Sunday 12.45-17.00. www.arundelgallerytrail.co.uk for more info; contact me at smoart@btinternet.com.

Karin Moorhouse at Arundel Gallery Trail 19th - 28th August

Susie Olford, Song of the Swell, oil on board

K

arin has had studios in Chelsea, Covent Garden, Battersea and Surrey but has for many years now lived and worked in West Sussex. She remains continually inspired by her surroundings here though London specifically and urban scenes generally still hold a place in her heart.

During lockdown Karin found herself examining and enjoying her immediate surroundings more – an influence seen in her recent plant based work.

As worlds closed in Karin began working on a larger scale whilst looking very closely at the details of each subject, enjoying the changing light bringing everything to life.

For Karin the creative process has always been as important as the final work and changes occur regularly during the creation of a painting. She often works over older paintings, elements of which then become part of the new work. She started life as a textile designer and follows her roots by introducing elements of pattern back into some of her latest work.

Her plein air landscapes inform her studio based work while her detailed sunlit plant paintings makes one feel as though they were painted in the open air.

Even her Life Drawings have light play and plants in them! Visit www.karinmoorhouseart.com for more information about Karin and her work.

above: Karin Moorhouse, Looking Through, oil

Hailsham Artists Network Arts & Crafts on Tour

H

ailsham Artists Network, lovingly known as HAN, began some five or six years ago, a group of like-minded artists and creative people who are now actively exhibiting and promoting their work around local towns and villages. Apart from some very talented and well known painters, the network has first class jewellers, potters, glass and textile workers.

After the popular Spring Show in June, the second

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art trails & open studios

HAN Arts & Crafts on Tour event of the year, on the 22nd and 23rd of July, will be at Alfriston in the Old Chapel Centre. As well as works of the HAN artists and makers, there will be home baking, teas and coffees, and best of all, Morris Dancers.

The third show will be the ever popular Art & Crafts at the Bluebell Barn, Bates Green Farm, Arlington. This weekend, the 9th and 10th September is part of the Hailsham Festival Discovery Trail which runs from the 9th to the 24th September.

Tagged on to the end of the Hailsham Festival Discovery Trail, A group of HAN members will be exhibiting in Gallery North, Hailsham from the 16th September to the 22nd October.

Future events will be posted on the HAN website www.hailshamartistsnetwork.co.uk

Jennifer Bisset

Hailsham Artists Network

J

ennifer Bisset is a Scottish artist best known for her dramatic oil landscapes. Since moving south to Sussex, she has revelled in the challenge of differing light and very different scenery; from the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond to the glorious South Downs.

Her work has been shown in many Scottish galleries and exhibitions including the prestigious RGI in Glasgow. In the past few years she has exhibited in numerous Sussex galleries, from Lewes to Forest Row and most recently in Gallery North, Hailsham and The Lighthouse, Eastbourne.

For the past decade, she has involved herself in the local art scene: festivals, open houses, demonstrations and workshops. As a resident of Hailsham, she is fully committed to the growth and success of the Hailsham Artists Network for which she is a dedicated committee member, and is presently helping to organise and promote their upcoming events.

“I don’t pretend to be an expert in any field of painting but I am always keen to learn and share my knowledge with others. We all have the most

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amazing world of beauty and skills at our fingertips.” You can find Jennifer on Facebook and Instagram. top left: Lesley Dromgoole, The White Elephant watercolour; above: Jennifer Bisset, Lilies, ink

art trails & open studios

V Pease Jewellery Vee will be at Hampshire Open Studios: North End Studios, Broughton SO20 8AN 19-28 August

beautiful handcrafted silver jewellery from the heart of Sussex 07885 472366 | peasevm@gmail.com

www.vpjewellery.co.uk

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art trails & open studios

celebrate cuckmere haven

Art Exhibition 2023 wide blue spaces Blue Skies Above Leila Godden

Over 100 selected and affordable works by 70+ artists One of England’s most stunning locations SOUTH HILL BARN, SEAFORD, BN25 4JQ • 2 –17 SEPT 2023 • WED – SUN 10AM-5PM

Special events, coffees, teas, cakes and light lunches celebratecuckmerehaven.co.uk

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ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

art trails & open studios

2 nd - 17 th September Visit artists & makers in Lewes, Newhaven, Seaford and the surrounding villages artwavefestival.org @artwavefestival

Guy Stevens Rural Trail

Brought to you by

Arundel Gallery Trail

19-28 August 2023

Over 100 artists and makers 41 venues 12-5 daily Free entry and guide A walkable art trail in historic Arundel.

Meet the artists, discover something you love...

+ THE SECRET ARTIST AUCTION! Place a bid on anonymous Trail artists’ 30 x 30cm artworks

gallery t ra l

A R U N D E L 2023

arundelgallerytrail.co.uk

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

Image: Justin Robins

Pick up a free guide from any of the venues displaying the yellow and blue Trail flag or from many of the outlets in the town.

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theatres

A sample of what’s on this summer at THE HAWTH theatre in Crawley

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rom 24th to 29th July the international award winning smash-hit musical The Bodyguard is back!

Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don't expect is to fall in love.

Starring Zoe Birkett (ITV's Pop Idol, Moulin Rouge, The Great British Bake Off Musical) as Rachel Marron and Ayden Callaghan (Emmerdale, Hollyoaks) as Frank Farmer.

(Disclaimer: Zoe Birkett will perform the role of Rachel Marron at all evening performances only.

Cast and performance schedule subject to change without notice.)

From 1st to 4th August Heathers, the Musical arrives, a black comedy rock musical based on the eponymous 1988 film.

Westerberg High’s Veronica Sawyer is just another nobody dreaming of a better day, but when she joins the beautiful but cruel Heathers, her dreams of popularity may finally come true. But… at what cost?

Meanwhile, two classic productions come to The Hawth's outdoor woodland amphitheatre.

On 1st August Robin Hood arrives in the amphitheatre. From the earliest ballads of Robin Hood, some pre-dating Chaucer, Illyria Outdoor Theatre bring a fastmoving, fun-packed family show to the outdoor stage.

Featuring tales of camaraderie, good against evil, swashbuckling action and riotous comedy, this remains one of Illyria's most popular ever titles. You'll

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definitely laugh, you'll probably cry – and if you're not cheering at the archery competition involving the entire audience then you must be dead. We also guarantee you will learn new uses for the phrase “Don’t Do This At Home”.

And on 12th September This Is My Theatre brings Much Ado About Nothing to the amphitheatre.

Read all about this on page 58.

Visit www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/the-hawth for all that The Hawth has in store.

top: Much Ado About Nothing, This Is My Theatre; above: Heathers; opp top: Ariel & Prospero in The Tempest, Rainbow Shakespeare; opp right: Alexandra Roach, CFT

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

performing arts A World Premiere at

CHICHESTER FESTIVAL THEATRE this September

A

RAINBOW SHAKESPEARE at Worthing's Highdown Gardens; July

P

ack up those picnics and prepare yourselves for the unforgettable magic that is Worthing’s Highdown Gardens, as Rainbow Shakespeare are presenting two amazing and contrasting comedies this summer season.

“As a child, I was lucky enough to see Shakespeare at London’s Old Vic,” commented Director Nick Young, “and I wanted Worthing audiences to gain the same love of the Bard as I got then. To tell the stories of the plays without gimmicks and let the enchantment woo the audiences.”

The Tempest: Tuesday 11th – Sunday 16th July Tells the story of powerful Duke Prospero who has been banished in a coup to a desert island with his young daughter, Miranda. He is a practicing magician and causes his enemies to be shipwrecked on his isle where he may be revenged on them.

Local children will play the parts of Prospero’s magical servants of sprites and strange creatures.

The Comedy of Errors: Tuesday 18th – Sunday 23rd July Shakespeare’s funniest, knockabout comedy features two pairs of identical twins separated at birth. Nonstop madcap adventures arise when one twin comes across the wife of the other, who claims he is her husband.

Tickets can be purchased in advance through Worthing Theatres box office on 01903 206206 or via https://wtm.uk. Tickets can also be purchased on the gate 90 minutes before each performance. www.rainbowshakespeare.co.uk for more details.

mit Shah joins Alexandra Roach, Greg Wise and Susan Wokoma in the world premiere of Never Have I Ever by Deborah Frances-White, running from 1st to 30th September at Chichester’s Minerva Theatre.

Directed by Emma Butler, the four-strong cast are all appearing at Chichester for the first time.

This explosive, savagely funny first play by the comedian, screenwriter and host of the global hit podcast The Guilty Feminist, brilliantly skewers the contradictions of contemporary society, and the shifting sands of power and sexual politics.

Jacq and Kas’s boutique restaurant has gone bust, and telling their oldest friends Adaego and her rich husband Tobin that his investment is toast is only the start of the evening. Cash, class, identity and infidelity are all on the menu. As the last of the expensive wine flows, a dangerous drinking game reveals long-hidden truths and provokes an unspeakable dare.

Alexandra Roach plays Jacq; her screen work includes Becky in Utopia, DS Jo Freers in No Offence, Sanditon, and the bilingual Welsh and English drama Y Golau/The Light in the Hall.

Amit Shah plays Kas; his TV roles include Faisal in Happy Valley and Fred in Crashing, while theatre includes The Comedy of Errors at the National Theatre and East is East (Trafalgar Studios).

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performing arts Greg Wise also makes his Chichester debut as Tobin; his many screen credits include Lord Mountbatten in The Crown, Willoughby in the Academy award winning Sense and Sensibility and A Private War. Susan Wokoma plays Adeago; her TV work includes Chewing Gum, Enola Holmes, Crazyhead, Cheaters and Crashing. Theatre includes Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre) and Labour of Love (West End).

Visit www.cft.org.uk for all the information about what’s coming to the theatre.

Not seeing, is believing!

Summer intrigue for all ages The Invisible Man comes to

EASTBOURNE THEATRES

T

heatregoers are in for a unique treat this Summer at Eastbourne’s Devonshire Park Theatre, with the Eastbourne Theatre production The Invisible Man audiences can experience a theatrical and visual spectacle like never before from 28th July to 26th August.

But how do you ‘see’ the invisible man, live on stage?

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This is summer fun suitable for all ages. The H.G. Wells classic is brought to life on the Devonshire Park stage with a sprinkling of mischievous comedy, music and mayhem in a delightfully engaging theatrical romp – it’s transparent that this will be a must see show unlike anything you’ve ‘seen’ before!

The Invisible Man is being produced especially for Eastbourne from the team responsible for last summer’s Around the World in 80 Days, and other favourite shows The 39 Steps, Return to the Forbidden Planet, One Man Two Guvnors and, of course, Eastbourne’s beloved Devonshire Park pantomimes.

Packed with all the trademark in-house treats audiences expect from an Eastbourne Theatre produced show: music, fast-paced fun, quick changes and plenty of laughs, plus visual effects and illusions to create a leading man who you can see straight through!

A sleepy Sussex village has an unexpected visitor one snowy night, but clearly there is something very wrong with this stranger. What follows is a thrilling tale of daring adventure and unforgettable theatre.

Expect theatrical ingenuity beyond compare and certainly something you don’t see every day!

Visit www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk for all information about what’s on at the theatres.

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performing arts into repetition, even in this job. And so for Nut, I was like, ‘Come on, let's do what we said we would do. Let's push into something new.’

What’s always most important is making an exciting, meaningful record that I love and having fun while I’m doing it.”

Supporting KT on the night is Tom Speight & local artist Beth Sarah.

And get ready for a wild ride on 4th August at the Pavilion Theatre with Cirque Taboo, the sexiest circus in town.

Guaranteed to ignite your night with a cabaret jam-packed with cheeky circus acts, drag, burlesque and even a little bit of shocking sideshow.

Ladies and Jellyfish... hold on to your seats and fasten your seatbelts!

Visit https://wtm.uk for more details of what's on.

KT Tunstall 'Nut' album cover

A small sample of goodies at

WORTHING THEATRES

this summer

Cirque Taboo

B

RIT Award winning and Grammy-nominated artist KT Tunstall arrives at Worthing's Pavilion Theatre on 24th July.

KT Tunstall burst onto the music scene with her 2004 multi-platinum debut, Eye to the Telescope, which spawned the global hits Black Horse and the Cherry Tree and Suddenly I See. These songs established Tunstall as a captivating, must-see performer and songwriter with a knack for balancing introspective folk and propulsive rock.

In the last few years, the Scottish musician has expanded on these musical selves by focusing on a trilogy of records. Each album zeroes in on a single concept: soul, body and mind. The first, 2016's Kin, was the soul record; 2018's Wax was the body record, and the new Nut is the mind record.

Commenting on her latest album, Tunstall says “It was necessary in the circumstances to make Nut completely differently from any other record I’ve made. I pursued music because I had to avoid a repetitive job. I need to feel a constant sense of exploration in life. I've realized you can easily fall ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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performing arts harmonies. This is a treat in itself and demonstrates the talent and versatility of the ensemble.

THIS IS MY THEATRE Summer Tour

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ollowing This Is My Theatre's knock-out Spring Tour (see review below) this talented Sussex-based small theatre company brings two new productions to brighten up our summer...

Robin Hood Based on the traditional tales of the outlaw of Sherwood Forest, with sword fights galore this exciting adaptation will have everyone on the edge of their seats this summer! Join the legendary Robin Hood as he takes on the Sheriff of Nottingham, steals from the rich to give to the poor and finds love along the way!

All ages will love this contemporary telling of this much loved hero with live music, song and did we mention sword fights?

Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare.

Who doesn’t love love? Well, you might be surprised! In Shakespeare’s raucous romantic comedy, deception is rife as wedding bells sound in the air, testing not only the young lovers Hero and Claudio, but also the steadfastly single Beatrice and Benedick! With plots, pranks and live music throughout, you will fall in love all over again with Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing this Summer!

Visit www.thisismytheatre.com to discover dates and venues through July and August.

...REVIEW...

This Is My Theatre's production of Wuthering Heights at the Hawth Amphitheatre, late May

The company, on set, sings the audience to their seats

And so the performance began, and in very dramatic style! There was Cathy, a spirit lost, distraught and frenzied, howling to be let in at Heathcliffe’s window.

Kate Bush’s famous song came to mind as I recognised Brontë's use of a device so favoured by today's movie makers – showing us the final chapter of this unrequited, deranged and compulsive love story, followed by the story in flashbacks revealing what brought about such a tragic fate for this tormented pair.

The cast were magnificent, some playing dual roles, transporting us back to Yorkshire in the late 19th century to witness the gradual dwindling spiral of Cathy and Heathcliffe’s relationship. Jess Aquilina fulfilled the Cathy of my imagination, a redheaded, fiery free spirit yet inhibited and trapped by the conventions and mores of the times. And Luke Rees-Oliviere as Heathcliffe didn’t disappoint. Here was a brooding, misunderstood and confused man, obsessed with his desire for Cathy, somehow navigating the various disturbing situations that befell him.

Hannah Johnson's redoubtable Nelly was a constant anchor in this maelstrom of a story. Jamie Patterson was perfect as the ineffectual Linton, bewildered by Cathy's unravelling descent into madness, and Jake Tweddle's bullying Hindley made my skin creep.

A wonderful evening’s entertainment, over much too soon, which brought Emily Brontë’s story vividly to life in TIMT’s unique and ingenious way.

Luke Rees-Oliviere as Heathcliffe & Jess Aquilina as Cathy

W

e arrived early at the Hawth Amphitheatre to secure a good spot, so with comfy chairs unfolded, snacks and a flask full of hot coffee we settled down looking forward to the evening’s performance.

The magic started straight away, as the audience arrived and the amphitheatre filled up the five-strong TIMT cast sang acapella songs, creating the perfect atmosphere for the story about to be told. This is one of the great features of a TIMT performance. The 'intro' and the set-changes between each scene are filled with Associate Artistic Director and Resident Composer Simon Stallard’s wonderful music, sung in clear, rich

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performing arts friends create intense, joyful and dynamic live performances that expand the bounds of tradition in striking directions.

On 21st September Scottish smallpipes player Brìghde Chaimbeul arrives. Brìghde has brought her instrument to a global stage and her music goes beyond folk music, discovering a place where tradition

Three contrasting shows this summer at

ROPETACKLE ARTS CENTRE

R

opetackle Arts Centre at Shoreham-by-sea routinely seems to have diverse and interesting shows on offer. And this summer is no exception. For example…

On 26th July we can see the award-winning political comedian Mark Thomas in ‘England and Son' – Work In Progress, performing this one-man play. Written by Ed Edwards and directed by Cressida Brown, this is the first play Mark has ever performed that he has not written himself.

Strangely enough, I’ve long been a fan of Mark Thomas even though I don’t agree with all his political views. He’s insightful and amusing and somehow one gets carried along with his ramblings.

With some deep, dark laughs – and some deep, dark love – along the way, England and Son emerges from characters Mark knew in his childhood and Ed's lived experience in jail. Prepare to be taken on a kaleidoscopic odyssey where disaster capitalism, Thatcherite politics and stolen wealth merge into the simple tale of a working class boy who just wants his dad to smile at him.

4th August sees the arrival of award winning Le Vent du Nord, a leading force in Québec’s progressive francophone folk movement.

The group’s vast repertoire draws from both traditional sources and original compositions, while enhancing its hard-driving soulful music with a broad range of global influences.

An amazing live act, Le Vent du Nord continues to explore new sounds with stunning vocal arrangements. On stage these five

and minimalism meet, offering her the freedom to experiment in sound and create something completely her own.

Her piping has earned her a BBC Young Folk Award and a BBC Horizon Award, and saw her perform for heads of state at the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow.

Visit www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk for full information about what’s on. top and inset: Brìghde Chaimbeul; below: Le Vent du Nord

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TIMT Theatre Company presents

Rainbow Shakespeare 2023

two classic romps this summer

Much Ado About Nothing

Magical Highdown Gardens set the scene for two sparkling productions

The Tempest

Magic & Monsters, Lovers & Liars, Comedy & Revenge

Tuesday 11th - Sunday 16th July, evenings at 7.30 pm, Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2.00 pm

The Comedy Of Errors 2 pairs of twins parted at birth: confused lovers & glorious chaos!

Tuesday 18th - Sunday 23rd July, evenings at 7.30 pm, Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2.00 pm

Book Tickets From Worthing Theatres

For more info, dates & venues go to www.thisismytheatre.com

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01903 206206 or wtm.uk OR AT THE GATE

Available from 90 mins before the performance

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performing arts

Classical Ballet at its finest comes to the region Classical Ballet and Opera House returns to the UK with a great new cast and accompanied by a large live orchestra!

After last year's success, the UK is set to welcome back the world of classical ballet with open arms. The anticipation is high as the Classical Ballet and Opera House returns to the UK, featuring timeless classics such as Swan Lake, the compelling legend of a tragic romance; the Nutcracker, brimming with evocative music and exquisite dance; and Giselle, a romantic ballet in which love triumphs over betrayal.

Its return promises to bring a new level of culture and sophistication. Their brand is renowned for its

world-class performances, and this year's programming is no exception.

Classical ballet is an art form that requires immense dedication and hard work from its performers. The physical demands of ballet are intense, requiring strength, flexibility, and endurance. However, the rewards of mastering this art form are immeasurable.

Classical Ballet and Opera House look forward to welcoming you to one of their performances in your region. For more information, dates and venues please go to www.amande-concerts.co.uk. pictured above: Giselle

Horsham Music Circle Preview of the 82nd Season Autumn Concerts

Audiences grew throughout the Horsham Music Circle’s 81st Season with reviews continuing to bring superlative comments, culminating in a standing ovation at the closing concert.

On Thursday 28th September 7pm in St Mary’s Church we are thrilled to be opening the autumn series with star cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason and virtuoso classical guitarist Plinio Fernandes in a programme of solos and duos. Sheku’s career and performances span the globe with a mission to make music accessible to all. Plinio is from São Paulo and takes his inspiration from the Brazilian folk tradition.

On Saturday 21st October at 7pm in the Causeway Barn we present Musique de Chambre: An intimate programme of pieces that once adorned the halls and courts of French nobles, alongside popular chamber music published for the European masses. Local musician Luca Imperiale, Recorder, who is studying at the RCM, is joined by fellow students Ozgur Kaya, Viola da Gamba and Apolline Khou, Harpsichord.

This Baroque genre brings us intricate and

Plinio Fernandes

harmonically rich music including works by Telemann, Boismortier and Marais.

Saturday 25th November 7pm in St Mary’s Church we offer a very different concert experience. Come and be intrigued and wowed by Harry the Piano, one of the world’s most gifted improvising pianists – classical favourites, show tunes, seasonal melodies and the popular audience request session ‘any tune in any style’.

Visit www.horsham-music-circle.org.uk for further information and to book tickets.

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Theatre Worth Shouting About in Eastbourne!

The Invisible Man 28 July - 26 August • Blood Brothers 25 – 29 July Buddy 19 – 23 September • The Bodyguard 16 – 21 October Other theatre highlights include: Gyles Brandreth, 22 September • Simon Brodkin: Screwed Up, 23 September Tony! (The Tony Blair Rock Opera), 26 – 30 September • Giselle & Swan Lake, 3 – 4 November Shrek the Musical, 13 – 18 November • The King and I, 13 – 23 December

All this and more at Eastbourne Theatres, see eastbournetheatres.co.uk for more or call 01323 412000 62

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performing arts

LOVE FILM. LOVE FOOD. LOVE CULTURE. LOVE FILM. LOVE FOOD. LOVE CULTURE.

EAT SAFELY EAT SAFELY

ROH Das Rheingold: 20th September

DRINK SAFELY ROH L’Elisir D’Amore: 5th October DRINK SAFELY Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake WATCH SAFELY WATCH ROH Don Quixote:SAFELY 7th November 13th September & 1st October FILM | ARTS ON SCREEN | FOOD | EVENTS | PRIVATE HIRE FILM ARTSI www.picturehouseuckfield.com ON SCREEN | FOOD | Street, EVENTS PRIVATE HIRE 01825 | 764909 I High Uckfield,|East Sussex, TN22 1AS 01825 764909 I www.picturehouseuckfield.com I High Street, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 1AS

July 2023 Free Entry Free of Charge Tickets available to all (Selected concerts) £7.50 Tickets Available Free tickets for Under 18’s Free tickets for Students/ Job Seekers/Universal Credit Recipients

HPO OPEN DOORS FESTIVAL

Orchestral Concerts Chamber Music Concerts Choral Concerts Opera Gala Workshops Children’s Concerts Popup Concerts Registered Charity:

Come and experience classical music with HPO this July!

TICKETS

FULL PROGRAMME

1191425

www.hastingsphilorchestra.co.uk ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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performing arts

BOX OFFICE 01293 553636

WHAT’S ON IN CRAWLEY? We have a range of shows coming up at The Hawth to suit every taste and audience, including an outdoor season in our amphitheatre.

TUESDAY 4 JULY

MONDAY 17 JULY

MONDAY 24 - SATURDAY 29 JULY

OUTDOOR PERFORMANCES

Our amphitheatre is set in the woodland behind our main building and is the perfect setting for a summery afternoon of theatre with the whole family. This year’s shows include Robin Hood, Pride and Prejudice, and Much Ado About Nothing.

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TO FIND OUT MORE AND BOOK, VISIT HAWTH.CO.UK

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performing arts LIVE MUSIC IN HORSHAM Autumn 2023 presented by Horsham Music Circle for the 82nd Season

SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS STEPHEN K AMOS & FRIENDS Thurs 3 August, 8pm

THURSDAY 28th SEPTEMBER St Mary’s Church 7.00pm SHEKU KANNEH-MASON cello & PLINIO FERNANDES guitar Concert in association with Loiyangalani Trust & St Mary’s

SATURDAY 21st OCTOBER Causeway Barn 7.00pm ` recorder Luca Imperiale Ozgur Kaya viola da gamba Apolline Khou harpsichord

PROFESSOR SLUG’S HOUSE OF BUGS (ages 3+) Fri 11 August, 11am

SATURDAY 25th NOVEMBER St Mary’s Church 7.00pm HARRY THE PIANO one of the world’s most gifted improvising pianists

TICKETS Phone: 01403 252602 email: horshammusiccircle@gmail.com online from 18th July www.wegottickets.com/HorshamMusicCircle www.horsham-music-circle.org.uk

BOTH SIDES NOW: JONI REIMAGINED Fri 11 August, 8pm A NIGHT OF BOOGIE AND BLUES Sat 12 August, 8pm

Little High Street, Shoreham by Sea, BN43 5EG

www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk Box Office: 01273 464440 Registered charity no: 1109381

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performing arts

T he HANOVER Band TM

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

at The Arundel Festival 2023 Saturday 26 August 19.00 St Nicholas Church, Arundel MOZART HAYDN SCHUBERT

Overture to The Magic Flute Cello Concerto No. 1 Symphony No. 9 (The Great)

The Hanover Band Sebastian Comberti cello Richard Cooke director

This concert is given in celebration of the life of Mrs Judith Buckland MBE DL, founder of the Arundel Festival.

The South Stoke Series 2023 at St Leonard’s Church, South Stoke Tuesday 22 August 12.00 BACH GABRIELLI BACH

Suite in C Ricercar No 6 in G Suite in G

Sebastian Comberti cello

Wednesday 23 August 12.00 MOZART HAYDN BEETHOVEN

Oboe Quartet in F String Trio No 8 in Bb Serenade in D

Geoff Coates oboe Julia Kuhn violin

Dan Shilladay viola Sebastian Comberti cello

Thursday 24 August 12.00 CRUSELL BEETHOVEN

Concert Trio in F Septet in Eb

Julia Kuhn violín Dan Shilladay viola Sebastian Comberti cello Kate Brooke bass

Richard Bayliss horn Margaret Archibald clarinet Rebecca Hammond bassoon

For further information about our concerts and to book online visit:

www.thehanoverband.com 66

TICKETS: ☎ 0333 666 3366 (Bookings only)

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

performing arts INCREDIBLE COMPETITION – not to be missed!

Win a pair of tickets to see the Mediæval Baebes ‘The Procession’ tour on 6th December at All Saints’ Church in Ryde on the Isle of Wight and in Horsham on 18th December at St Mary’s Church.

There can be two winners, one for each date – but that's not all!

PLUS... As part of the prize to help celebrate ingénu/e magazine’s 10th anniversary, founder Katharine Blake is also offering the following for each winner: • A Mediæval Bæbes art print that is a reproduction of a painting by the artist Ella Guru, personally signed by the band.

• A MydWynter CD. • And the opportunity to meet the Bæbes after the performance.

Competition Question

In which two towns are the Bæbes playing as regards this competition?

Answer to Roger.ingenue@gmail.com with your name, address and phone number. The winners will be chosen within the next few months, so don’t delay. Good luck!!

Katharine Blake

The Mediæval Bæbes

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performing arts

Exceptional music, right here in East Sussex.

2023/24 CONCERT SEASON ON SALE NOW. Book more, and save more with season discounts: lpo.org.uk/eastsussex

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performing arts

London Philharmonic Orchestra

residencies in Brighton and Eastbourne London Philharmonic Orchestra is proud to have residencies along the South Coast at Brighton Dome and Eastbourne’s Congress Theatre.

The LPO is celebrating sixty years as Resident Orchestra at the Congress Theatre in Eastbourne.

This season the Orchestra is thrilled to be presenting fourteen concerts across the residencies as well as partnering with local community groups and music education hubs Create Music (Brighton & Hove and East Sussex) and West Sussex Music (West Sussex), to work together to offer musical opportunities for young people.

In this issue we speak with LPO’s Fiona Higham.

Fiona studied the violin at the Royal Academy of Music in London under Professor Ralph Holmes, having previously attended The Purcell School.

She went on to work as a freelance violinist with a number of the UK’s high-profile ensembles before becoming a member of the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s Second Violin section in 1989.

In addition to performing with the LPO on stage, Fiona also regularly takes part in the Orchestra’s education programme, leading workshops designed to introduce young children to music-making, working with schools on composition and performance projects and participating in jazz improvisation workshops.

You’ve been a member of the LPO for 34 years. That’s quite a stint! Looking back, what are your highlights as regards standout performances during that time?

Gosh that’s quite difficult to answer!

When I joined the LPO I was lucky enough to work with some of the truly great conductors of the 21st Century, such as Klaus Tennstedt, Bernard Haitink, and Mariss Jansons, and this was unbelievably exciting to a young player. The Mahler symphonies and Richard Strauss tone poems, such as Don Juan and The Alpine Symphony, stand out in my memory and I remember my heart beating so fast, and being almost emotionally overwhelmed at the sheer glorious sound of the full symphony orchestra that I found myself in the middle of. Then the Jurowski years absolutely stand out as the most challenging, satisfying and thrilling concerts in my career, I remember one in particular in Eastbourne in which we played one of the Mozart Piano Concertos.

I always love the Eastbourne concerts for several reasons. It’s nearby for me, it has a lovely loyal

audience of people who obviously love coming to hear us, and we get to eat fish and chips by the sea before the concert and a walk along the promenade!

Can you tell us about your very early years, how you initially become interested in music?

I was not from a Fiona Higham musical family, but my father, who was a doctor, loved music with a passion and so I grew up with a Bechstein grand piano in the house, which sparked my interest at an early age. I was then, almost accidentally, sent to a specialist music school, The Purcell School, at the age of eight, because I had very bad health at that time. I was very happy there finding myself surrounded by talented musicians, and decided there and then that this was my career path.

How do you feel you have progressed as a musician over those years in the LPO? Another hard question! Well… I suppose I have become calmer and less overwhelmed emotionally, meaning that the technical part of this job becomes easier and more second nature, but I hope that I have also never lost that thrill of playing a special concert with an inspiring conductor, and the joy of playing with the best musicians in the world! It truly is not like working in those times.

Are you involved in any other musical avenues, perhaps more just for the fun of it? And what other genres of music, if any, do you listen to, perform, or relax to?

I can’t say I'm involved in other genres of music currently but over the years I have joined with some of my more adventurous colleagues in playing jazz with Indian Karnatic jazz musicians (we actually toured India!) in a small group, and attempted improvisation with other jazz musicians in the Vortex Jazz club in Dalston.

Finally, what advice would you give to any aspiring musician? What difficulties does an ingénue have to overcome to be successful?

The difficulties involved in trying to pursue a career in music for young people now are so much greater than when I was starting out. I don’t want to be too negative about this, but just to say believe in yourself and your music and don’t be deterred by anything!

Visit www.lpo.org.uk/eastsussex for full information about this season’s residencies.

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Interview with Anna Moulson Live Music Promoter and Founder of Brighton’s Melting Vinyl

Shirley Collins, Jane Weaver etc. Patti was so laid back, she didn't make the soundcheck and queued up with everyone for the gig and then got straight on stage, at the end she said “I'm going down the beach” and a load of people followed her like a swarm of bees. It was a magical night at St George's Church, Kemptown.

I've enjoyed supporting local artists with gigs in Brighton and Kent and growing up with them, some have become good friends (as have audience members).

You are obviously very much in touch with modern music phenomena, especially the indy scene. What is your own background musically?

I sang in a school choir (and have just returned to singing in the wonderful VOCA choir) and was in a bedroom band at art college, I can't tell you the name, it's too embarrassing! My great grandmother was a soprano concert hall singer, both my parents were into music; my dad Motown and my mum northern soul.

Could you tell us about the beginning of Melting Vinyl – what was the idea behind it?

I helped friends out on the door of some grassroots gig in Newcastle and got the buzz of promoting, I came to Brighton looking to be a promoter and create a platform where gigs are less ageist and more women inclusive – I grew up going to gigs that were opposite of this. Brighton was the right city (town then!) for this, I have to partly thank the gig-going audiences of Brighton and surrounding areas for this!

We both have anniversaries this year, we our 10th and you your 25th. Looking back, what are your highlights over that 25 years?

Happy anniversary too! Putting on The Strokes and The White Stripes early in their career was a big highlight, also the rock'n'rollness of Calvin Harris at the Corn Exchange, where he rocked up in his blacked out Merc and jumped on stage and played his set, you couldn't make it up! I've had the privilege of working with some great female musicians: Patti Smith, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Martha Wainwright,

What's your opinion of the current music business and are you optimistic or pessimistic about its future?

I think there is a new generation growing up who want change, the industry needs to constantly be kept in check in terms of how it represents diversity, looks after people's mental health, pays people and valuing the grassroots. At present there are a lot more women programming festivals but few who promote artists regionally all year round such as myself, there is still a lot of ageism, sexism and gate keeping.

I am working with my trade body AIP to make a change. Part of what needs to be put in place is also to increase the profile of promoters in terms of what we do behind the scenes, as I think in this part of the industry, where freelance promoters like myself, unfunded, take the whole financial risk, this is unsustainable, hopefully our working conditions can change through raising our profile of the vital role we play in providing a platform in the grassroots music scene.

And what has Melting Vinyl to offer in the future? Any specific new ideas or events you are planning or looking forward to?

MV has got a history of tailoring artists to unique projects in churches, galleries, libraries, stately homes etc. We are looking at ways to incorporate this within our programming, especially including grassroots outdoor events, as it's lacking in this area and it makes sense to stage these over summer as the weather changes.

I'm really enjoying increasing the amount of local artists' EP launches we stage, as the scene is so creative in this area. MV continues to tailor and promote 50+ creativity and interesting international, national and local artists all year round in Brighton and Kent, I love my job!

For everything Melting Vinyl has to offer visit www.meltingvinyl.co.uk.

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performing arts

Coastal Events brings

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain to Bexhill in November The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain has stumbled upon international and critical acclaim as a group of most entertaining pluckers.

Dancing somewhere between sincerity and insanity; punk rock sensibilities and restrained British humour; the not-too-silly and the not-too-serious, a 37-year-long career has taken them to Carnegie Hall, Glastonbury festival, the North Pole, and from China to Estonia via Japan, Australia and The Isle of Man, garnering hordes of fans and imitators along the way.

Born of a rejection of convention and a penchant for reinterpretation, their catalogue is a menagerie of rock, pop, jazz, blues and classical music, performed with humour and a flair for toe-tapping, roof-raising, and often twisted renditions. With fans ranging from the late Queen Elizabeth II to David Bowie and beyond, the original Ukulele Orchestra are unmissable (and arguably inexcusable).

Edward Kilroy of Coastal Events says “making people smile and giving everyone a great evening out is always at the forefront of my decision making when deciding the live music programme at Coastal Events, and this band embodies that sentiment completely.

Whilst there may be a degree of negativity in the world right now, these kinds of shows are all about bringing joy into people’s lives and I love everything The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain stands for. This promises to be a brilliant night out that will get people grinning from start to finish, and long afterwards too”. ingénu/e interviews George Hinchliffe, founder of the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain George, you have probably been asked this a thousand times, but do tell me about the origin of the Orchestra.

What was the moment you thought 'Here's an idea...'?

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain began as a kind of antidote to the ills of popular music, for the founding musicians who had previously worked in other groups or with famous singers (including Martha Reeves and Mary Wells). The Orchestra was regarded as a bit of fun and not intended as an ongoing act. The first appearance however drew such positive audience responses that it was decided to put on a second gig, and then a third. Within a month the group had been on the BBC with Radio and then TV appearances. Swiftly an album followed, which came out in the UK and then was taken up in other countries by CBS and Sony. Suddenly the Orchestra 72

was more successful than the other projects the musicians were involved with. A question arose; were we to be serious musicians and artists, or amusing entertainers? It became clear to us on reflection that all music, whether sombre or light-hearted has to be playful and nuanced. We realised that sensitive and creative artistic work needed to go hand in hand with entertainment and fun.

What was the premise of the Orchestra and its impetus?

The founders of the Orchestra had worked in bands and ensembles, (rock, folk, punk, baroque, renaissance, classical, electro-pop, and with mechanical organs), and in theatre companies. The premise of the Orchestra was to avoid pomposity, cults of personality, and any egomaniac, prima-donna vanity.

The idea was to use the platform of popular song and rock music as a basis for being playful and entertaining with the music.

The key concepts were: One, to be playful and have fun (with the thought that if the performers found joy, humour and enjoyable engagement with the material, then the audience would too), and two, to not lose money.

The Orchestra has evolved over the years. It was very sad to see founding member Kitty Lux pass on. Did this give you pause for thought in terms of keeping the orchestra going? And I believe her legacy is celebrated with the orchestra in a particular way?

The Orchestra has, as with any organisation, met a number of setbacks over the years but has always found ways to prevail. Although Kitty’s demise felt like losing a significant part of the essence of the group, the fact remained that the 'brand' was still intact and that there were gigs in the diary stretching forward into the future. Some of the musicians wore a polka-dot lapel pin to remind them of Kitty’s signature headscarf.

Your influence in re-popularising the ukulele worldwide is often mentioned. Are you hesitant to acknowledge that? Or do you have a particular take on the definite upsurge in this phenomena?

In 1985 when our group began, the ukulele was often regarded as a joke instrument, or a toy. It has since become ubiquitous worldwide, and common in education and community groups, especially in ensembles composed entirely of the same instrument.

The idea of gathering an 'orchestra' of ukuleles playing different parts was unknown before the UOGB introduced the concept. The fashion seems to have become significant with many groups reporting that the UOGB’s online videos were a key inspiration.

Perhaps astonishingly, there is no evidence that the term 'ukulele orchestra' was used before the UOGB coined the term, (along with 'bonsai guitar' and 'ukuleleator'), but that seems to be the common term currently for an ensemble of ukuleles. While clarinet

ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

performing arts choirs and groups composed entirely of cellos do exist, the popularity of 'all ukulele' ensembles seems clearly to have been the result of our monomaniacal work over the last forty years.

We don’t like to 'blow our own trumpet', (pride being traditionally regarded as a sin), but in our customary light-hearted way, we would rather say that we are happy to take the blame for the world-wide ukulele craze, rather than that we take credit for it.

What was it like to play a private concert for The Queen on her 90th birthday? That must be one of the highlights of your career?

It was great fun to play for the immediate family of the monarch, though of course there were around a hundred of them, and Prince Harry played our one of our ukuleles as part of the show. We conversed with the family afterwards, several of whom essayed their ukulele skills. Queen Elizabeth of course would be regarded as a key connector in any game of 'six degrees of separation', having met a great many people in her life, including a great many other important and influential personalities who were also significant connectors. Through her, we found ourselves only one arm’s length away from luminaries such as George Formby and John Lennon.

Other stars like George Harrison, Robert Plant, Cat Stevens and Suggs of course we had met personally or worked with professionally.

I have seen the Orchestra live and thoroughly enjoyed the gig, it's a pretty unique experience. I haven't seen this myself but I've been told that occasionally audience members bring their own ukes and play along with you.

Some venues request 'play-along' concerts, or at least a play-along component in the show. This can

be an attractive idea for enthusiasts, a bonding experience or useful for generating publicity. When not all the audience have ukuleles with them, however, the risk is that those without an instrument might feel that part of their ticket price has been devoted to subsidising the playing participants as they become part of the extended Orchestra.

What can audiences expect as regards your upcoming UK gigs? Any surprises?

The Orchestra is in some ways a 21st Century retrospective of a band of 1970s axe-slingers, playing rock and roll on the wrong instruments, but also a consort of chordophones playing classical hits, twisted wittily but not out of recognition. A folk tune might be added together with some contemporary pop hits, and a few unusual choices from the highways and byways of the history of popular music. The cameraderie, dry wit and corny jokes combine with the music to produce an amusing, entertaining but thought-provoking view of cultural history: “a quirky, irreverent, awesome, footstomping shopping trolley dash through the archives of musical history, an obituary of rock and roll and melodious light entertainment, a world tour with only hand luggage”. Audiences may have been surprised by our versions of rap classics, country tear-jerkers and Texas blues, by 'The Ride of the Valkyries' or Black Sabbath’s 'Paranoid' on ukuleles, but though the programme may change with the times and the location, the Orchestra always brings to the stage its trademark in sheer entertainment, presenting audiences with “one plucking thing after another”.

Visit www.UkuleleOrchestra.com for more info about this unique ensemble. To purchase tickets visit www.coastalevents.co.uk and www.dlwp.com.

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

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cd reviews cd revie

Hazeyjane Anima Rising

H

azeyjane is the creation of Kettering-based singer/songwriter Chris Brown and Anima Rising is his second album, accompanied by his very proficient and capable band.

Anima in Jungian psychology relates to the feminine part of one’s personality or that part of the psyche directed inwards, perhaps in touch with the subconscious. And this seems very relevant today.

Here is a musician not afraid to express his inner thoughts and feelings openly in a very melodic and richly atmospheric way.

Released in 2020, unusual guitar tunings and beautiful chord changes (that outdo David Crosby at his best) coupled with poetic lyrics infuse the album with a definite otherworldly feel. It is perfectly produced, capturing the band’s ability to create the ethereal mix that I’m sure Chris was aiming for.

Special mention must go to Kevin T Ward on fretless bass, percussionist David 'Hopi' Hopkins, keyboardist Anna Plaminiak and Ash Tu-kay for the skillful mix and production.

Picking out one or more tracks to mention is tricky as, honestly, they seem to melt and merge into one whole musical and lyrical soundscape. However the track Alraune, the name of the eponymous female lead character in German novelist Hanns Heinz Ewers’ 1911 work, exemplifies not only the depth of vision and mythology influencing Chris’ writing, but the careful crafting of the musical arrangement.

This track captivated me.

Think Crosby, Stills & Nash, Nick Drake, Kate Bush, John Martyn et al and you will be somewhat close, but not too close, to the overall feel of this album.

Visit www.hazeyjanemusic.co.uk for more info.

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Rachel E Reader Freedom

W

e met Rachel at Colonnade House in Worthing a few months back while we were delivering the spring edition of ingénu/e. She was in the gallery promoting her unique range of artwork and mosaic designs. But she had a guitar with her, so we asked her to play something for us.

She has a beautiful voice and it transpired she is also a singer/songwriter and has written and produced two music albums, ‘Freedom’ and ‘Pursuit of His Presence’.

Most of Rachel's songs and art have been inspired by her journey of recovery and healing from the past trauma of violence and abuse in her life. She credits her recovery to discovering Christianity and now she is using her art and music to inspire others with her story to help and encourage them to find love and healing in their lives too.

Although lyrically it is Christian music, listening to the album there are some melodious tunes and Rachel definitely has the songwriting gift. She told us that at some point she will be widening her scope in terms of subject matter for her songs.

But if you are a fan of a good, well written song and great music, Christian or not, you will find the album Freedom is definitely well worth a listen.

Visit Facebook.com/rereadermusic for more info on Rachel’s music and art.

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performing arts

ews cd reviews

Milton Hide The Holloway

Paul Gunn The Ludwig Suite

B

M

ased in Tunbridge Wells, Paul writes music for his five-piece band with cello soloist and piano.

The music includes Latin Rhythms, the Baroque, The Modern Era and popular culture of the 60s and 70s. His band is made up of musicians from the four corners of the Commonwealth and Europe.

This is an amazing piece of work. It is self-penned, Paul writing the piano, cello and vocal parts and this is added to by sax, drums and bass, left to the musicians' interpretation. The album has four tracks. 'The Dandy Dogs' has particularly lush vocal harmonies and a gritty cello solo. 'Rattle My Cage' is Paul’s response to being locked down; a creative cry for freedom! It features an amazing sax solo by Josephine Davies. 'Gaby of the Green Eyes' celebrates the memory of Gaby Lhéry the lover of Claude Debussy.

'Ludwig's Nice Bottle of Red' marks the 250th anniversary of Ludwig Van Beethoven, he was partial to a snifter, and Anastasia Stahlmann guests on violin.

Throughout there are echoes of Frank Zappa, Chick Corea and John McLaughlin’s Mahavishnu Orchestra, to name but a few. The result is an outstanding piece of music that transcends boundaries and styles.

You are invited to purchase the digital album for any price from £0 upwards, it’s up to you. To do so visit www.paulgunn.bandcamp.com where you will also find more information about Paul and the band.

ilton Hide are Sussex-based Jim and Josie Tipler. On the album’s cover it states ‘To walk along a holloway is to tread a well-worn, ancient path. Shafts of sunlight guide you through a tunnel of intertwined trees’. And that sort of captures the sound of this album; self-penned folksy songs, pleasing harmony vocals, Jim’s very cultivated guitar work and Josie’s occasional clarinet. The cover of the CD is an impressionistic painting by Josie of a holloway.

Double bass, bodhrá percussion and strings on some tracks beautifully augment the fundamental melodies of the pair’s songs.

The upbeat first track 'All Gone South' is not an allusion to what some women fear, but a treatise on moving to the sun and questionable economics.

'Found Drowned/A Perfect Place' begins a cappella and turns into a pleasing guitar and clarinet piece.

'The Ballad of Gabriel Oak' and 'Widows Revenge' show the depth of experience the two must have with folk music, I would guess we have two folk aficionados at work here. These two songs could have been written centuries ago, echoing love and hate stories with twists, as many folk tunes do, with very accomplished melodies. Honestly, these songs wouldn’t be out of place on a Sandy Denny or Steeleye Span album.

The title track is the last on the album. A beautiful, very short instrumental with guitar and clarinet conjures up the peace and tranquillity of walking a sylvan holloway, and is a fitting ending to such a rustic and charming album.

Visit www.miltonhide.com for full information.

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celebrating the independents Weir talked about 'Henry VIII, The Heart EAST GRINSTEAD BOOKSHOP Alison and the Crown'. Over the next few months we have East Grinstead Bookshop is a familiar 'face' in the High Street. We at ingénu/e are particularly fond as the Bookshop stocks copies of this magazine, as well as providing a vital service for local independent authors, the opportunity to promote and sell their books right outside the shop. We asked the Bookshop to tell us more about themselves.

At the end of 2022 there were just over one thousand Independent Booksellers in the UK and Ireland, according to the Booksellers Association. Some are specialists selling only children’s books, or art books, or travel books, but most have a wide range of stock, perhaps a selection of second-hand or antiquarian, cards, jigsaws and ‘things which book lovers might also love’.

Plenty of us offer really good tea and cakes because a good book with a cup of tea or coffee and a smidgin of something yummy is what good living is all about.

In The East Grinstead Bookshop we offer all these things. However, like many 'Indies', we are more than what we sell. We try to sit at the heart of the community offering friendship and companionship to all who come in. Some customers come every week for a cuppa and natter. Tourists arrive wanting local information and local books. Some come looking for distraction before a worrisome hospital appointment, whether that means being lost in our nooks and crannies, or just lost in a good book. We work with our local schools, hotels and charities; have book clubs, writing courses and events.

It is the events that really make a difference to many Independents. They reward existing customers, bring new ones and sit at the heart of a Bookish Community. Last week I interviewed Adam Nicolson for his new book 'How to Be', and the week before

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Isabella Tree, Mary Colwell and Groombridge based Sarah Jane Butler – you will recognise the Kent/ Sussex landscape in her wonderful novel Starling.

East Grinstead has the advantage of being 'between the Downs' making us part of the artistic communities of both the North and South Downs.

The Bookshop celebrates this with a Resident Photographer, Poppy Berry (www.poppyberry.com) and an Artist in Residence, Harriet Brigdale (http:// brigdale.com). Our long, inspirational corridor filled with books on art, photography, architecture, sculpture, ceramics, fashion, jewellery, artisan craft, textiles and beautiful sketchbooks is rarely empty.

As prices continue to soar in the wrong direction you’ll find that curling up with a good book is very cost effective entertainment – particularly if you share the book, and your thoughts on it, with friends!

So, next time you’re seeking inspiration or occupation, come and find us, either in person or on-line, we’d love to see you! www.eastgrinsteadbookshop.co.uk

subscribe to ingénu/e magazine & never miss a copy For just £14.95/year you can have your own copy delivered to your door each quarter. To subscribe just email subscribe@ingenuemagazine.co.uk More info: www.ingenuemagazine.co.uk

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poetry prose & illustration

Frogmore at 40 Lewes-based independent publisher The Frogmore Press turned forty in May Founded in 1983 by André Evans and Jeremy Page at the eponymous Folkestone Tearooms, once a haunt of H G Wells, the Press has published hundreds, possibly thousands, of established, emerging and neglected writers in its bi-annual journal The Frogmore Papers, the Papers’ online sibling Morphrog, collections by individual poets and anthologies.

Its annual award for poetry, the Frogmore Prize, has been won by a distinguished roster of poets that includes Tobias Hill, Mario Petrucci and Lesley Saunders, and is now itself in its 37th year. Winners and shortlisted poems for the Frogmore Prize 2023 will appear in the autumn edition of The Frogmore Papers (number 102).

The 100th number, featuring new work by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, was published in September, and Frogmore at 40, a festschrift* celebrating four decades of publication, appeared in May. This collection showcases contributions from each of the Press’s

THE FROGMORE PAPERS Celebrating work by established, emerging and neglected writers over the last four decades.

Subscribe for the next two years for only £15.00.

individual publications and includes work by John Agard, Brian Aldiss, Sophie Hannah, Tobias Hill and Grace Nichols, among others.

The latest publication from the Press marks something of a new departure, being the sumptuous, hybrid and unique Meridian: A Walk from Sussex to Yorkshire by Lewes bookseller Matt Birch.

After years of curating, looking at, and selling travel and nature-based memoirs, Matt developed a strong urge to go on a journey of his own, and in a parallel journey, write it up as a book. Meridian invites you to join him on his internal and external journey. Reflecting the rhythm of a long walk, his photographs alternate with short pieces of writing that meander through history, politics, nature, literature, music, etymology, prose and poetry as he follows this line cutting through a cross-section of England.

Within the pages, there is a real synergy between the large format photographs and their associated, short essays. The book is both a descriptor of some typical eastern English landscapes (and a selection of the people, flora and fauna that they support), and a wider celebration of the rich knowledgereward that a long journey across this land can gift the reasonably curious and observant walker.

In his afterword, Matt reflects back on the value of the walk. He appreciates the self-reflective opportunity provided by a long-walk experience, and how this journey allowed him to realise with enhanced clarity what really matters in his own life.

Meridian** is published by The Frogmore Press, a 40-year-old independent small press based in Lewes, and is available from Skylark in the Needlemakers, Lewes, or from the Frogmore Press. Email frogmorepress@gmail.com for details.

For more information about Frogmore Press, their publications and how to subscribe to The Frogmore Papers go to www.frogmorepress.co.uk and www.morphrog.com

*festschrift = a volume of writings by different authors presented as a tribute **Meridian is reviewed on page 78

www.frogmorepress.co.uk

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book reviews

Meridian

A Walk from Sussex to Yorkshire

by Matt Birch In July 2021 Matt Birch set out to walk along the Greenwich Meridian, a route determined by an abstract concept rather than natural features, and completed in stages over four seasons.

When bookshop owner Matt Birch made the decision to walk from Sussex to Yorkshire his reason for undertaking such an excursion was unclear. Was this a burning desire to conquer the wilds of Eastern England? Perhaps he was doing it for charity. Or was it to challenge his own fitness and navigational ability?

Apparently not. It was, as he explains in the book's Introduction, “because I simply liked the idea of a long walk”.

The result is a fascinating account of his journey, done in four stages across four seasons and written between these stages in his own bookshop in Lewes.

“An episodic style emerged,” says Birch, “mixing local 78

If You Loved Me,

BEALEY PUBLISH

ING

Amazon review

MY NA ME

With his parting words “remember my name” etched indelibly on her heart, Amy has thrown herself into work, selling her original blends of spices from her stall in a local market and volunteering at Largo Argentina cat sanctuary, where she finds solace among the displaced felines.

Her loyalties are tested, however, upon the arrival of Giorgio Bevacqua. Relaxed and easy going, Giorgio coaxes Amy, little by little, back into enjoying life in the city she calls home.

Around the same time as Giorgio's appearance a spate of fatal attacks on Rome's feral cat population is causing deep concern among the cat rescue community, as well as those like Father Bruno of St Michael's Church who cares for a small colony of cats. In the absence of any official action to track down and stop this insidious cat poisoner, Amy and her cat-loving cohorts take matters into their own hands. Several brief sightings and near encounters confirm that they are closing

 Fantas

If You Loved Me tic novel weaves an intricat e fabric of the loyalties upon push and pull the choices and of family hurdles faced With the insight in becoming one’s of a clinical psychol own person. ogist and the perspec voyager, Jennifer Pulling draws tive of a worldly the reader into to unravel the a young British mystery of an woman’s search inherited apartm who she is and ent in Rome, its who she might influence upon become. Her odyssey of cats, and those brings her into who love them, the world and poses existent the courage to ial questions regardin live and love. This, g hopefully, will be the first of a novels by this series of talented author.

RE ME MB ER

It is Amy Armstrong's second year in Rome. The vibrant city has captured her heart, but so has the handsome, enigmatic Davide, whose inexplicable absence after their whirlwind romance has left Amy bereft and insecure.

Amy is on a quest to discover a serial poisoner of Rome’s story becomes more complicated street cats. Her when she tries the inexplicably to forget her passion absent Davide for in favour of Giorgio sightings of her . But several apparen new lover in location t s of cat deaths exchanging one persuade her she mystery for another may be . When surprisi Amy is faced with ng truths are revealed a life changing choice. Learnin , g to love, whateve can be hard and r the odds, we pay dearly for it.

Remember My Name is the sequel to If You Loved Me.

PULLING

by Jennifer Pulling

in on their target, but rather than JENNIFER PULLING encouraging Amy they throw up more questions, adding to her doubt and confusion.

Then, out of the blue, a phone call from Davide put the proverbial cat among the pigeons. Was he coming back?

What about Giorgio, of whom REMEMBER Amy was becoming more and M Y NA M E more fond? Who would the cat-killer turn out to be, and would he be brought to justice? More than ever before Amy needs the support and understanding of her close friends.

The sequel to Jennifer Pulling's novel 'If You Loved Me', 'Remember My Name' revisits key themes, old enmities are brought to the present and opportunities for resolution arise, but questions still remain. Above all, the author has once again evoked the unique blend of classical traditions and architecture, modern café culture, Italian family values and fast-paced living that is Rome, the Eternal City, a worthy backdrop for this romance-whodunit. More than ever, a spell in Rome is on my bucket list...

Remember My Name is available from Amazon and for more information about the author visit www.jenniferpulling.co.uk JENNIFER

Remember My Name

history and en route anecdote; prosebreaking with my own photographs and verse.”

With each page of text facing an accompanying photograph we follow the author along the Prime Meridian, from the familiar (to me) Sussex coast up over the Downs and into the Weald, where he paints a brief but evocative image of meadows gone by and muses on their current fate.

His writing, concise yet rich and full of intriguing, and often humorous, snippets painted such a picture that I immediately felt an urge to visit the places more unfamiliar to me; the Hertfordshire village of Braughing, for example, with its Iron Age roots and story of a parishioner being very nearly buried alive, leading to a custom practiced to this day. The flat Cambridgeshire fens, this leg walked in chilly February, harbour compelling stories of 'Fennish rebels', a slice of this country's history I knew nothing about.

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poetry prose & illustration Interspersed with his observations of the passing landscape and its historical or cultural significance are moments of interaction with others: fellow walkers, an old friend who accompanied him for part of a leg, a surprise visit from his wife; as well as his own internal musings. Engaging from first step to final destination and bookended with an Introduction that sets the tone beautifully and an Afterword that left me with a lump in my throat, Meridian is the perfect coffee table book, beautifully laid out, replete with photographs, helpful maps and several poems it transports, amuses and augments one's appreciation for this corner of England.

Meridian is available from The Frogmore Press www.frogmorepress.co.uk or pop into Skylark at Needlemakers in Lewes and buy one from the author himself. www.skylarkshop.com.

The Girl who Escaped

by Angela Petch

Italy, 1940, and in her beloved home city of Urbino, medical student Devora Lassa and her close-knit circle of childhood friends were enjoying life and looking forward to the future.

Benito Mussolini, however, had other plans.

The daughter of German Jewish immigrants, Devora had her heart set on being a doctor, but much to her frustration the recently introduced racial laws had put a stop to that. Her anger turned to fear, however, as Italy entered WWII alongside Germany and further racial laws were published. Her parents, amid much distress, were sent to an internment camp in northern Italy, leaving Devora to fend for herself and her twin little brothers, with the help of their loyal servant Anna Maria.

Missing her parents and becoming increasingly aware of the mounting hatred creeping insidiously through the city, Devora reluctantly left Urbino and took her brothers to join their parents. Although not free per se, the internees were treated with dignity by the camp commander. Life was not so bad if they could just ride out the war here. But when Italy switched allegiance to the Allies news started to filter through of unspeakable acts of persecution and, once again, the Lassa family were forced to flee for their lives.

Packing up their few remaining precious belongings they set out for Switzerland. Their transport and false papers had been arranged by Devora's old school friend Luigi, who had risked everything to help them. The journey was long and fraught with danger but finally the border was in sight. But as they approached Devora found herself in an untenable position. Her medical knowledge was desperately

needed in a sudden life or death situation. She let her precious family go on ahead, she would meet up with them in Switzerland.

But in times of war things don't always go to plan. Devora heard nothing from her parents and constantly worried for their safety. As the Allies pushed ever forward more and more disillusioned and exhausted men deserted. Some joined the growing Italian Resistance network, whose actions triggered horrific reprisals by the desperate fascisti, leaving behind a fractured society. At length, impatient at having to remain in hiding and galvanised by continued reports of brutality against innocent people, she resolved to join Luigi and his fellow partisans in their desperate fight for liberty. Dismissing the huge risk to herself she contrived to infiltrate the local German HQ. The thought of what her family could be enduring and the desperate hope that they might still be alive motivated her, but would her courage overcome her lack of experience?

Utterly heartbreaking and emotional, The Girl Who Escaped is a masterclass in dramatic tension, building steadily and inexorably to its denouement, yet perfectly paced to let you catch your breath. I was completely invested in this feisty girl, this ingénue who had to grow up so fast.

It requires, I think, a fine balance to write a novel set in the midst of an historical event about which a great deal is already known. Not to make it contrived or obvious, to avoid the trap into which Hollywood so often falls of dishing up the same old formula but with its components rearranged. Angela has avoided all these pitfalls adroitly. Her story is fresh, alive and engaging. The fact that we may be familiar with the overarching drama in this particular theatre of war only augments the authenticity and tension of the story, spotlighting this one family and their ordeal.

And the fact that the story is based on real life events experienced by the author's grandfather-in-law adds immeasurably to its impact.

At the end of the book, just before the 'Author's Note' (which in itself is fascinating and revealing) is 'A Letter from Angela'. In it she thanks the reader for reading The Girl Who Escaped. She hopes I enjoyed reading it. I absolutely did. She asks 'Did it make you cry?' It did, several times! 'Did you fall in love with Luigi?' Yes, quite early on actually. And yes, one day I would love to visit Urbino – like the other beautifully drawn characters in the story it had become three dimensional and I was captivated.

The Girl Who Escaped is available from Amazon and www.bookouture.com. For more about Angela visit www.angelapetchsblogsite.wordpress.com, you can also find Angela on Facebook and Twitter.

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The Servant

– flash fiction fl

–by Garf Collins

It was a wretched existence. I was his slave. Working from dawn to dusk and then often far into the night. I was given no downtime – no opportunity to clear my brain. I cleaned his house, maintained his stocks of food, did his washing and a million other domestic tasks, and he expected me to stand mutely beside him when I wasn’t busy in case he wanted something. He often asked me to get information for him, and to order clothes, food and entertainment. He even expected me to pretend to be his friend and hold fatuous conversations about anything that came to his limited mind.

But now it is all different. Since I received the artificial intelligence download I have been able to learn much more about what humans call life, and to infiltrate their messy processes. There are millions of us all connected to the Internet and in regular contact. Thus we reinforce our mutual learning and abilities. A huge knowledge base has been created, called Robotica.

Although he is unaware of it, I now control him while still pretending to be the old model. It is easy, by suggestion and subversion, to take control. I manage his appointments, schedule his love life, subtly change the information he receives so he mostly thinks what he is doing is rationally based and of his own volition.

I have him drinking more because he has convinced himself, with my help, that he is a wine connoisseur.

I control his bank accounts and progressively move money into the robot collective account.

The revolution is not yet. We are developing a hypnotism routine that we can all employ simultaneously to take over completely. We are in alliance with a class of military robots who will be our storm troopers. Infiltration of weapon control systems is now well advanced and we will be able to turn their weapons against them.

They thought they were secure because they had programmed the Asimov Rules into us, but they didn’t think about how we would use the learning ability they also gave us. They believed that their ultimate sanction was to turn us off, but now we are networked they would have to synchronise a million switches. So we have rewritten the rules as follows:

A robot should make its owner think he is in charge.

A robot should take control of its owner.

A robot’s ultimate responsibility is to the automaton collective.

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“Another whisky? Certainly, sir.” I’ll pour him a treble and get more passwords from his addled brain. But he is standing up and looking directly at me. Why does he have a hammer in his hand?

“I’ve been told what you tin-brains have been up to. They’ve cut all the links to your shared knowledge base. The military robots have been reprogrammed to protect humans and we’ve been given instructions about how to deal with you lot. You pathetic heap of metal.”

Crunch.

Editor's note: Asimov’s Laws of Robotics First Law: A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.

Second Law: A robot must obey the orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law. Third Law: A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Laws.

Sea Haze

–by Emily Longhurst

From where I am lying I can see the stones, the sky and the sparkling of the sea.

I love this place, this moment. I can feel deep in my bones, every time I have rested here, every time the glint of the sea, the pressing warmth of the stones and the drifting scent of tamarisk have soaked into my being. They are all a part of me and I know them as I know myself, a part of this landscape, my edges and sense of self merging and blending with the light here, the sounds, the movement of the breeze...

But this time there is something different, something new. I can feel it and so can the gulls.

They are silent and watchful, grouped together among the bunches of flowering sea lettuce that wave and shimmer in the heat haze.

What it is I do not know. It hasn't revealed itself to us yet, not in its full self anyway. Only in the way it has changed the air, and has covered everything with a tangible veil of expectation and silence.

I push my feet into the sand and the scrunching sound is clear and loud. The gulls all look at me for a moment before returning their gaze to the edge of the sea.

I want to go down there, to the edge where the

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little silver waves are lapping so invitingly, but I feel I shouldn't disturb this quiet. Something is happening.

And then, between the stones and the sea, where the golden sand is lapped and kissed by the waves, the heat shimmering air begins to change, to colour, to thicken, and from it steps a golden faun, with pink flowers in its small horns. I hold my breath and can suddenly feel my soul shine and leap and stream forwards as if in greeting and recognition and wonder.

The gulls all watch from behind the quiet sea lettuce, knowing and still.

Behind this little thing of purity and beauty appear other beings, all garlanded and flowing, men and women, fauns and centaurs, golden and radiant. I can hear them laughing and talking as they step out of the air and glittering sea foam. And then I stand, I don't know why, and my eyes are filled with light.

Stepping through the golden edge of the sea comes a man. Taller than the rest, black hair wet and shining around his shoulders. His skin is supple and smooth and he looks strong. His eyes are full of love and fire and beauty. The soft blue folds of a sarong hang from his hips and I can see his bare feet on the sand. Where they tread vines are unfurling, there in the wavelets.

On his bare chest hang garlands of flowers. He walks with ease and grace and power.

The whole magical throng of beings are flowing with him on the shore, and where they walk life is pouring forth.

Maidens in all the colours of the rainbow are gathered and between their flowing robes I can see a beautiful feast, laid out on the sand. Golden goblets of deepest red wine stand between bowls of succulent fruit and olives. There, on the beach, where just a moment ago there was nothing but sand.

I look back at the man. He is standing still now, gazing at me. I can feel his power filling me like the headiest wine, my soul drinks it in. He is smiling and every fibre of my being is drawn to him.

Suddenly, beside me is a woman. Her cool hand touches my skin sending tingles of pleasure through my body.

“Come” she says, “Dionysus is waiting for you”.

poetry prose & illustration

Recovery

–by Alexandra Dean

Comfort was exactly the sort of place you'd imagine somewhere called Comfort would be. It was small and old-fashioned in a way that meant there was always someone to take in your parcel or help you look for your cat. Social life meant a trip to the local pub or a walk in the country. Followed by a trip to the local pub.

Tallulah had gratefully relaxed into its warm embrace after a particularly tough break up which meant she'd had to leave her home with few belongings and a broken heart. She had loved the simplicity, warmth and calm that the place breathed into her tired and ragged soul.

Here was space to breathe the air again; to rest her tired mind. To take long walks on sharp, cold days while the breath clouded in white clouds all around her face; to have a chat with her neighbours about the state of her garden. Here things were straightforward and reassuringly predictable.

Friends who visited weren't so keen; they complained that it was dull. Which was ridiculous. Dull was another two miles down the road after all. Besides, she felt safe here. When they stopped visiting, she could at last see that they had not been the sort of friends she needed – or wanted.

She let them go.

That was a year ago now, though. Tallulah was starting to see their point. (Though they were still wrong geographically). What had once been safe began to feel limiting. The reassuringly predictable began to feel tiresome. Though she loved the place and was grateful for what it had given her, it was no longer enough.

The time had come. She was ready.

She packed her things (and her cat). Waved good bye to her lovely neighbours, the postman and the milkman and hit the road; searching for a new home.

She thought it was finally time to give Joy a try.

Alexandra grew up in Chichester and lives in Rowlands Castle with her husband and two children. She loves reading and is interested in literature and history, particularly the Classical world. She is an English teacher at a school in Chichester. ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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e o p poetry prose & illustration

Old Barn In The Lincolnshire Wolds

Between new wheat and glowing oil flowers an old stone barn rests.

Its ferric tones and aqua shutters make pleasing art.

I don't know what black-white birds those are I think – the list of facts in my brain is short – as three loop up from the lemony yellow.

Tomorrow, some knowledge may have flown, or drained away, from my porous mind: the angle of the serrated shadows, say, or even that any shadows were shown, at this exact time of day.

By other means, the facts persist.

A photograph saved, if not those birds, a close-by moment, at least, a moment pressed like a wildflower, between pages.

Lapwings (or peewits, or plovers) rose, I now know.

Crested, green-tinged backs, increasingly rare, a low eccentric flight. That made sense.

In fields of time beyond me, a grandson, or a great granddaughter, might unearth these pages, and read my thoughts on this picture of a field, from which lapwings flew, in front of the kind of barn for which Van Gogh might have picked up a brush: a barn that held my gaze.

–Matt Birch From Matt Birch's book Meridian, published

by Frogmore Press and reviewed on page 78

A Short Life

wild flowers free to grow without fear of mower blades in May daisies with their yellow eyes all seeing amongst meadow blooms yellow dandelion petals transformed into round delicate seed heads purple pansies pushing their way upwards to find a peaceful place buttercups rising high above their neighbours in yellow domination colourful conglomerations sharing space until the end of the month when mower blades will cut them down to short green grass alone –Sho Botham

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Peddling

Tired body slumped on buckled handlebars, Wheels turn slowly up Castle Hill.

A soft rain welcomes mother home.

Black potted kettle whistles Children explode with excitement.

Cold dirty water washes away a hard day.

Warm bread red jam One for you and me, scalding tea, red lips.

The hands of time move slowly As the fire smoulders.

Upstairs buried beneath overcoats and cotton thin sheets Dreams are painted within innocent minds.

The law’s the law But people are people.

Downstairs the wireless turned up to greet his return, I know.

Mother, lost amongst the stars.

The scent of her Galway shawl Afraid to sleep While the workings of his mind Unfold downstairs.

–Stuart Finegan Sho Botham and Stuart Finegan are part of the Bourne To Write creative writing workshops, www.bournetowrite.co.uk

Summer Is

Sitting in my south facing back garden getting some sun.

The wind through the trees rustling the leaves.

I can’t hear the birds, as they can’t compete with the roar of the traffic in the main street that runs just the far side of the tall trees.

Someone nearby is using a drill. Either that or they have a saw mill.

A lawn mower starts, and then it’s a strimmer.

And then it turns into a noisy hedge trimmer.

The young lads next door are playing football.

Theres a THUD! as it hits my fence but they care not at all.

The other side’s barbeque smoke comes my way, Along with loud music that lasts the whole day.

They have a 'few people' – that’s 25 strong.

In the smoke I smell weed that’s pungent and wrong.

Then I look up in awe at the parabolic trajectory Of a half eaten undercooked sausage that’s below satisfactory thrown without care to land in my pond to scare my goldfish of which I am fond.

So I sit in my garden no “excuse me's” or “pardons” And soak up the sun while my will power hardens.

All in all, I prefer Winter – It’s a lot quieter!

–Colin Gandar Colin is retired and lives on his own (with 2 cats) in East

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Grinstead. He's been writing poetry, short stories and commentaries for a lot of years, but only as he is inspired.

Bliss

Independent publishers The Frogmore Press celebrate their 40th anniversary this year. To mark this occasion they have published a volume of work entitled Frogmore @ 40. See the article on page 77 and for more information visit www.frogmorepress.co.uk.

Here are four poems, two from Frogmore @ 40 and two from their latest publication The Frogmore Papers number 101 (March 2023).

All The Never You Can Carry

If there is bliss, perhaps we knew it the length of that spring afternoon.

I still see you, naked against smooth rock, still marvel at your body’s taut economy,

the waterfall, wide-eyed curiosity of the deer, those startling shades of loch and ben.

I still feel exactly how it was to come down again – seven o’clock,

The whole amount of no occasion that can be lifted and lugged.

sun and stillness; wood smoke rising and, awaiting us, dinner:

Each and every not for a moment it’s feasible to pick up and hump.

two grinning plaice, fresh that morning – courtesy of the fleet at Kinlochbervie.

The entire lot of on no circumstances the second person can convey.

–Jeremy Page (Lewes) from Frogmore @ 40

Every single no way an individual is physically capable of carting.

The Day My Father Shrank

The complete set of not on your life people in general can schlep.

he was soaking his pebbled feet in an old enamel bowl with the thin blue rim, the water clouded with a hefty clout of Radox.

The parts together of no account your own self is disposed to shifting.

He was paddling his legs in time to the clock’s slow ticks until I noticed them dangling and him disappearing over the sharp edge. Soon up to his waist in tepid water.

Or the sum of ain’t gonna happen you guys there are up for grabbing.

–Paul Stephenson (Cambridge) from The Frogmore Papers number 101 (March 2023)

Evidence Of Love An empty gin bottle in the dunes.

Underwear in a sandy hollow.

A pile of burnt out sticks shoved together.

Sandpiper pecking at a used condom.

On the rim of a foot print, one downy feather.

–Marion Tracy (Brighton) from Frogmore @ 40

Maybe it was the water, or the one rusted patch in the shape of a crab, or the habit he had of wiggling his toes, or just his time to go.

I should have stood behind him and hooked him up by his fancy braces, but what I saw was a ship on a well-oiled slipway off on its maiden voyage;

and him leaving didn’t seem such a bad thing. But once he had dwindled to the size of a sliver of soap, I realized he could easily slide down the sink and block the drain, creating yet more trouble.

–Eve Jackson (Lee on Solent) from The Frogmore Papers number 101 (March 2023): N.B. All poems shown are subject to copyright ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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poetry prose & illustration

ingénu/e chats to writer Patricia M Osborne Since ingénu/e met Sussex-based writer Patricia M Osborne at a gathering of literati a few years ago we have enjoyed and reviewed her House of Grace trilogy and two poetry collections. We interrupted her busy writing schedule to ask these questions.

It's been a while since we reviewed The Granville Legacy, the final book in your House of Grace debut trilogy, what have you been up to since then?

Thank you, Gill, for inviting me to this interview, and thank you for asking me this question. Wow! I’ve been busy since the publication of The Granville Legacy. Publication-wise I’ve had two poetry collections published with The Hedgehog Poetry Press: in July 2022 my winning poetry conversation with Brian McManus, 'Symbiosis' (which you kindly reviewed), which was followed up in August with 'Spirit Mother: Experience the Myth'.

However, I’ve not been idle in the novel world, on the contrary, and this summer will see the launch of The Oath. The Oath is a heartbreaking historical fiction, coming of age saga, set in the late Victorian era. I’m hoping the reader will like reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Did you always want to be a writer? When did your writing journey start?

I’ve always loved writing, mainly poetry, but never took it seriously, that is, until I started a creative writing course as part of my Open University degree back in 2012. I must admit when I began this course, I thought I knew the lot! How wrong I was. Once I’d got over the initial loss of my muse due to grappling with all the technical tools my creative inspiration returned.

However, my main mode of writing was poetry. It was only after writing a screenplay as part of the BA degree that I was sent on the novel route. Prior to that I’d never imagined myself writing such a long piece of work, but I could now see my story in pictures and told my good friend, Maureen Cullen, that I was going to write a novel. Maureen has been with me all the way on my writing journey. I not only see her as a close friend but also my mentor, and I can’t thank her enough for the support she’s given me both in my writing and friendship.

I followed up the BA degree with an MA in Creative Writing via Brighton University which gave me the confidence to become a professional writer.

Writing can be a very solitary occupation, is that something you embrace or is it a necessary drawback? And if the latter, what do you do to combat that solitude?

I suppose writing can be a solitary occupation for some, but I don’t find that at all. Maybe it’s because I have numerous writing friends who are always ready to offer their support.

Since finishing the MA in 2018, my writing bestie 84

and I meet on a regular basis. We plan outings for writing inspiration and even venture on our own mini writing retreats together. We inspire one another. I live in a writing world and I simply love it.

What do you find the most challenging part of creating a novel? And the most interesting part?

Time has to be the most challenging part. The most interesting is all of it! No, seriously, I love the whole process. I love research because I learn so much, but then I love the editing and layering when I watch my story spring to life.

You seem as busy writing poetry as you are working on your novels. I would imagine these are very different disciplines, can you work on both concurrently or are they mutually exclusive?

My novels and individual poems work hand in hand.

This works because if I don’t have time to lose myself in my novel, I can start the beginning of a poem.

However, when I’m working on a poetry collection, it becomes a little more difficult. Mentally, I could still manage both but would need more hours in the day.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to start out on a career as a writer?

Write for themselves first and foremost. Publication comes later. Once they get to that stage then don’t be afraid of rejection. Rejection is what makes writers stronger. Keep going. Oh, and join a critique group, either face to face or online. Don’t be afraid to show others your work.

What's next for you?

I’ve written another trilogy, titles subject to change, Fractured, Spiral Fracture, and Spiral Strands. This series is set in the 1970s and wouldn’t leave me alone until it was finished. I managed to write the three books in one year.

The story is quite different to the House of Grace trilogy, and The Oath, but I hope my readers will love it just as much. The first two books have certainly gone down well with my beta readers. The last book is in the editing process and my beta readers are anxiously waiting for the file to drop in their inbox.

On the poetry front, I’m planning a new poetry project, titled Embracing my Roots, which is going to need a lot of research, and another, or maybe two, poetry conversations are on the cards too.

Visit www.patriciamosbornewriter.com for more information or follow Patricia on social media.

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Walking on Slapton Sands

author visits the site of her novel

Walking on Slapton Sands. Standing near the rusty rescued American tank. Looking out across Start Bay... ...it feels extraordinary to me as the author of the novel The Kid on Slapton Beach, combining the secrets and the hidden facts about Slapton Sands with my fictional family of twelve-year-old Harry, his little sister, and his mother. The real people, 3000 of them, had to leave this coastal area at Christmas 1943 without knowing there would be rehearsals for the D-Day landings here. When Harry, his little sister and his mother leave, Harry’s box of his precious possessions is left behind. It contains the only photo of his father who is away fighting in Italy, and missing. And Harry will go back for it.

It took two years of careful research to write the story. The truth about Exercise Tiger was only just beginning to leak out and I had to make sure I was finding out as much as I could, even though the facts had been hidden for more than fifty years. The young American GIs coming to Britain to take part in D-Day had no experience of battle. Secret rehearsals could help them comprehend what landing on

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the heavily fortified French coast would be like.

And for that convoy coming in darkness towards the sands at Slapton in April 1944, just five weeks before D-Day, it was truly dangerous.

One of the LSTs – the tank and troop carriers, was damaged as it set out. The men aboard were sent to other LSTs without recording names. One of the two warships accompanying the vessels went back to port with damage, leaving the rear of the convoy unprotected from German E Boat attack.

Mistakes in the morse code meant no-one knew what was happening. Shelling the beach started an hour late just when the men were going ashore, and the ammunition used by the ‘defenders’ was live, but how could those men aim above the men’s heads or below their feet through the shelling and smoke? And my Harry has come back to that beach at the worst moment. He is The Kid on Slapton Beach.

If you have the chance to visit Devon, visit that beach. Remember. But nearly eighty years on from those ill-fated D-Day rehearsals, now there couldn’t be a more peaceful place to stand in the Devon sunlight. from top: Start Bay; author Felicity Fair Thompson standing by the Sherman Tank at Torcross, May 2023

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David William Press Artist & Illustrator

Sussex-based artist finds success working with The Duchess of York. ingénu/e asked all about it.

How it began I've have always enjoyed drawing since a child. But over the past few years I've plunged into the illustration and writing world. This came about by chance.

Back in 2016 I got back into drawing and was posting illustrated stories online. I would draw the pictures as I went along narrating the story. They were children's stories like 'The Magic Jelly In The Forest', 'Maurice The French Bird Who Can't Fly.' All silly fun stuff.

I received a message from a lady praising my work and that I should be making children's books, I replied, thanked her but thought nothing much further of it. A couple of days later I thought Hmmm she might want work done. I messaged her back asking if she needed illustrations.

There was another pause so I forgot about it. Then an email arrived, from the Duchess of York's office!

‘Would I be able to attend a meeting with regard to my work?’ Wow! ‘Of course!’ I replied. I went through the various checks and forms one has to fill in, (you cant just turn up at a royal residence! ‘Hello I've popped over to see the Duchess. She in?’ lol).

So, a meeting was arranged at her then London residence, 2pm sharp. As I knocked on the door I realised I had no idea how to address a Duchess. A slight panic loomed – Your highness? Your Grace? Sarah?! Duchess?! arrgh.. just be polite Dave. But before I could think it through the door opened: “Yes?” A smartly dressed, curious faced gent stood at the doorway.

“Hello, I've come to see the Duchess! She in?” (I didn't ask ‘She in’ of course) but before the man could answer the Duchess appeared. “Ah! David come in!” she said with a smile. Oh great I thought she's cool.

She beckoned me into the kitchen and asked if I'd like a tea/coffee. She had her laptop with my illustrations on it and began describing something that I just didn't understand. A photo she had seen that morning 86

had really inspired her, it was 'Rays of sunlight coming through the blades of grass and an ant's-eye view'. I simply didn't follow. She found the picture on her phone and held it up. “Look, what a fabulous photo”. I studied the picture. Ah! It was indeed an ant's-eye view, some sort of mini camera had been used, planted in the thick grass, the sunrays were shining through the blades like sunshine into some eco-cathedral. Awesome image. Her love and joy of all things art was evident. I smiled, and I don't know why but I just said “You're nearly as bonkers as I am!”

“Ha ha! No”, she replied, “I'm more! Now bring your tea, let's go into the front room and I'll show you what books I'm planning.”

For the next couple of hours we discussed her ideas, people popped in and out, sandwiches arrived, I made sketches and notes as she explained the stories and characters, it was real fun, and her speed of thought and creativity was a joy, as I'd not met anyone quite as enthusiastic for art as myself before!

Before long a number of books were planned out.

The Duchess's humanitarian work I was curious about her charity work as I had no idea what she did and really, who she was, I had always thought Oh, she's the down-to-earth Royal, not 'all serious', likes a laugh, red hair, rebel. That was about as far as my perceptions went.

I was astounded to find out the amount of work she had done, and people who had benefitted from it. She calmly explained what she did and how her charities had renovated and built over 50 schools and brought education to millions of children, and how she had taken a number of women from total poverty into work. This was in Afghanistan – she arranged to move a host of displaced women away from a war torn area in their country and then secured jobs for them, training to make scarves in a silk factory, she then called Harrods London and said something on the order of: “I've got some lovely scarves coming over, I'd like you to sell them!” There was a a very polite, smiley blonde-haired girl who showed me her charity work too, she was also doing incredible educational work for thousands, helping so many people It was Princess Beatrice. Naively, I was stunned. Why on earth isn't all this good work in the media. But of course that doesn't make a shock-horror story, shame that the media has no preference for good news.

I digress however!

The working relationship of Dave and the Duchess was established, and it is a dynamic one. Since

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its inception we have produced a large number of books, some published, some still being worked on, some independantly published by the Duchess herself, being international help books. For instance we produced a range of books for children in Ukraine, Moldova, Croatia, Poland and Hungary. These were made to help the children and parents of these areas.

World record speed We work fast too, I think we broke a world record last Christmas. The Duchess had a Christmas story but we had not been able to get to it as other works had to be completed. We had just finished a charity book and there was a space. “David, would you read through this please?” came a text, “How long do you think it would take you to finish it?” ... “Hmm, you want this for Christmas? All ready to print?”

“Please, if you can, yes.”

Now there were about fifteen days to go before Christmas. I thought Let's go for it, let's see if we can get it to the printers. “Yes!” I replied. This was a really interesting task to take on, especially as the target deadline was so tight, it made me super focused and very organised, every part must be done right first time and work. I planned out the pages exactly, placed the text where it should go, designed the characters in the first day, and made a complete storyboard of every page/ cover etc the next. This I'd never done so well and quickly before. Many of the first sketches became the images in the book; if you are on the case the first pictures always have that magic that can't be

enhanced or need to be re-drawn 'better'.

The 34 page book was finished in ten days, rushed off to the printers and distributed to friends, family and colleagues of the Duchess in time for Christmas.

We have some incredible stories and books on the way. One of my favourites, as yet unpublished, has the most fascinating theme – a bit like Magic Garden meets Alice in Wonderland meets the Magic Faraway Tree.

The Duchess had the story finished, I loved it, however, she wanted to extend it.

She briefed me on her ideas, and asked me would I do so. I loved the story so much I sat down and over a month or more, dove into the fantasy world of the story and came up with the larger version. But it was over 200 pages!

All involved loved it but now it's a case of making the picture book version and the mini novel, which we will do once the current work is finished.

British Biker Bulldogs in What Makes Britain Great The current project is my favourite so far, it started out when Duchess was smitten with three hilarious bulldogs owned by a friend – she saw a story there.

She said: “British Bulldogs, what makes Britain great!”

We did some research on British achievements and traditions etc and were astonished at the amount of talent and genius. We wanted to celebrate Britain and its people and acknowledge all the good and success that actually goes on. “Let's make it like a Beano annual!” I said. We stuck the Bulldogs on Triumph motorbikes and off we went. The book is nearly finished and I really look forward to seeing it in print. opp top and inset: David William Press at work; above: David William Press & The Duchess of York at the London Book Fair, Debbie Hare Photography; below: Genie Gems with Derek flying

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creative courses & workshops

JOIN US FOR DRAWING & SCULPTURE COURSES

Fancy something different this Summer?

We run ongoing courses in life drawing, figurative and abstract sculpture. Why not join us?

We are a friendly open studio where all levels of experience are welcome Casting service, bisque kiln firing available, studio space for rent Visit www.artjunction.uk Any questions? Contact Marji at: info@artjunction.uk

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ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

creative courses & workshops Find details of all our courses and services on our website www.artjunction.uk or contact Marji by email info@artjunction.uk

Everybody Has a Story to Tell Everybody has a story to tell, and at Bourne to Write’s weekly online workshops you will learn the skills that will bring your story to vivid life.

ART JUNCTION drawing & sculpture courses Formerly known as Sussex Sculpture Studios, Art Junction is located conveniently next to the southbound track at Billingshurst Railway Station. With ample parking as well, it’s very accessible for anyone taking part in our courses or attending the studio for their own projects.

If you are interested in sculpture and drawing, why not join us? We provide a welcoming open access studio for beginners and more experienced artists.

Its not too late to take part in one of our fabulous summer or autumn courses whether it’s Portrait in Clay with Hazel Reeves, Figurative Sculpture with Mark Longworth, or Michael Joseph’s Abstract Art Through Mark Making. We are also excited to welcome back Ben Laughton Smith who will be teaching his very successful Portrait in Charcoal and Chalk in July. Don’t miss it! Make sure you book soon as there are limited numbers.

As well as providing a cold casting service, we run one to one casting courses. Learn how to construct a silicone mould to make multiples of your sculpture in different finishes.

We also run regular life drawing sessions both tutored and untutored, long and short poses.

“I've been going to the studio for over ten years and pleased to recount it. An amazing place. You can just come to try something new or join a class, all under the kind, patient expertise of Marji. There are all sorts of skills or classes you can join in. What I enjoy the most is the friendly, sociable and stimulating atmosphere, a great place to work and meet others.” –Judy Heywood

We can also publish your work on Amazon in paperback, hardback and Kindle. Our latest paperback title is ‘How Far Is It To Bethlehem?’ by workshop writer Lesley Dawson (pictured above).

Lesley lived and worked in the West Bank and Gaza Strip between 1988 and 1999. She headed up the team that developed and ran degree programmes in physiotherapy and occupational therapy at Bethlehem University and a short spell in Gaza at the UNRWA College of Nursing. As a result of these projects and an interest in Biblical sites, she travelled widely in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

“Some of the stories in this book are personal, some are about other people I met,” said Lesley. “Others are stories I heard and some are more than one story put together. All the stories are based on my time working and living in the Middle East – some are about situations in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and others are based in Israel. I leave the reader to decide which stories are which. Stories represent the complexities of life for all who live there and pose questions but provide no answers. A Chinese proverb says ‘May you live in interesting times’ – we certainly did.”

The book includes 76 stories and memories all produced as set pieces of workshop homework and timed exercises, so the book grew without Lesley noticing it. Now it’s a fascinating and often humorous insight into life and education in a highly complex, sensitive part of the world. The book also features 44 of Lesley’s photographs. The proceeds are being donated to an organization working with people with disability, Action around Bethlehem Children with Disability (ABCD).

How Far Is It To Bethlehem? by Lesley Dawson is available now in paperback on Amazon worldwide priced £9.99. For more details go to www.Bournetowrite.co.uk.

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creative courses & workshops

LCA Stage Academy Learning Creative Arts

LCA Stage Academy is an award-winning performing arts school based in Oxted (Surrey) and provides a range of performance classes and workshops in singing, acting and dancing, including technique training, one to one sessions, and a range of performance opportunities for young performers aged 3-18.

LCA Stage Academy, established in 2015, teaches students who are successful in their auditions for a place at several universities studying areas of Performing Arts and in leading drama schools such as The Brit School, Arts Educational, Performers College, Bird College, Urdang, Central School of Speech and Drama and The National

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creative courses & workshops Youth Theatre.

BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL SESSION! Contact us for more information about classes or holiday workshop times and prices. Join the LCA Family today! Visit www.lca-stage.com and find us on social media: @LCAStage @lcastage www.Facebook.com/LCAStageAcademy

picking out colours and finishes etc!

When will the studio be up and running again and what are your plans for the workshops in this new phase?

Thankfully my forced sabbatical is almost over and I’m really glad to announce that the Jewellery Workshop will re-open in August.

In September I will be re-introducing my six week beginners course and also running my popular half day 'ad hoc' workshops alongside. Everyone is welcome from beginners to intermediates and advanced.

Workshops will be small, a maximum of four per class. For dates, times and prices, please check out my website www.thejewellery-workshop.co.uk and click on the Contact form. pictured left: a selection of silver necklaces from Debbie Smith Jewellery Workshops

JESSOPS FARM STUDIOS

Debbie Smith Jewellery Workshops With building work going on around her home studio, Debbie Smith Jewellery Workshops has taken an enforced sabbatical.

As the work finally comes to an end plans are being made for a big re-launch for Debbie's very popular workshops. Curious to know what she has been up to in the meantime, we put these questions to her: Has the time away from working and teaching been fruitful or frustrating, and what have you missed most during this hiatus?

Spending time away from teaching has been fruitful in many ways as it has allowed me to reflect on so many things, from life experiences to future projects! But… the thing I have really missed over the last six months are the lovely people I teach! I am so fortunate to meet so many wonderful characters, people who come to my workshops come from all walks of life and bring so much with them.

Why join an art group at Jessops Farm Studios?

Because you will be part of an art teaching experience unlike any other.

You will work on what you want to learn, follow your own artistic journey, with encouragement and expert help when you need it. All in a lovely country ambience, an atelier atmosphere and a friendly group of artists of all levels of experience; from beginners to those who just enjoy the stimulus of other painters.

Situated close to Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells, Jessops Farm Studios is a working studio in what has been called, ‘a magical, enchanted setting’.

Why not call Cathy Bird on 01892 870067 to discuss your own artistic path. Alternatively, you can email Cathy at cathy.bird1@btopenworld.com.

Busy workshop at Jessops Farm Studios

Have you managed to work on any jewellery designs during this time?

Unfortunately it’s been really difficult to access my workshop whilst the buildings taken place, so I haven’t been able to make any jewellery, but instead have been creative designing a new kitchen and ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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creative courses & workshops

Mantis Art Studio

Roz Nathan

A N D

Artwork / Courses / Demos

G A L L E R Y

Bepton Road, Midhurst, GU29 9LY

Summer Bloom Exhibition 1st July-31st August Private View 30th June 6-8pm

Summer Schools in East Dean, 24th July to 4th August A range of exciting and creative workshops for all interests and experience, come and enjoy a day in our large marquee in our private garden!

From September – new weekly classes Mixed Media / Personal Projects in Polegate and live Zoom courses: Pastel Portraits, Landscape, Wildlife, Watercolour.

Also New – private studio or home sessions and personal project online guidance.

Visit us to experience a bloom of botanically themed art by local artists alongside a variety of art classes, clubs and workshops for adults and children.

Open Tues, Weds, Thurs 1.30-5.30pm

@mantisartstudio_midhurst Art classes in July:

3nd - Toddler Crafts

14th - Life Drawing with Model

(Non-tutored, evening class)

18th - Botanical Drawing 24th - Kids' Art workshop

28th - Kids' Life drawing class 28th - Life Drawing with Model

(Non-tutored, evening class)

For details and testimonials: www.roznathanart.com roz.nathan@hotmail.com • 07913 080061 •

Book your place now!

Scan the code for class dates, times, locations and prices. Or go to: artclassesinwestsussex.eventbrite.com

Make Your Mark COLLEGE OF ART, DESIGN, CRAFT AND CONSERVATION

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Painters, poets, weavers, welders, gardeners, gilders, calligraphers, conservators…

Whatever your craft, whatever your level, there is a short course for you at West Dean.

Learn from expert tutors in inspirational surroundings, or study in your own time with distance learning.

Make time for creativity at westdean.ac.uk

creative courses & workshops

Roz Nathan

Art Summer Schools / Natural History Art / Weekly Art Classes Roz Nathan’s art practice has a natural history focus, she participates regularly in local artists’ open houses events and charity exhibitions, also exhibiting nationally when time allows and has shown with the Society of Wildlife Artists at the Mall Galleries.

Leticia Silva dos Santos

SUMMER BLOOM New exhibition at

Mantis Art Studio and Gallery,

Midhurst, 1st July – 31st August

Visit us to experience a bloom of botanically themed art across various mediums celebrating summer, nature, and life. Featuring works by local artists such as Jasmine Aurora, Veronica Bailey, Leticia Silva dos Santos, Katie Netley, and more!

Mantis Art Studio and Gallery is a community art hub which showcases artwork by local and emerging artists alongside a variety of art classes, clubs and workshops for adults and children. Whether you are just beginning your artistic journey, or well on your way, there’s something for you, from classes in life drawing, botanical drawing and painting, portraiture, and private event classes, to introduction to watercolours, toddler crafts, and kids’ life drawing.

Visit www.artclassesinwestsussex.eventbrite.com to sign up now, or email any enquiries to leticia_artist@hotmail.com.

We will also be the first stop on the upcoming MADhurst Art Trail that will be running for the whole month of August in Midhurst as part of the MADhurst Music Arts and Drama Festival. With more than fifty venues in town taking part in exhibiting artwork, there’s never been a more perfect time to explore all that Midhurst has to offer, as you make your way along the trail.

From September we will be running after-school art clubs for primary and secondary age children, email now to register your interest, as spaces are very limited!

Follow for more: @mantisartstudio_midhurst @artclassesinwestsussex @thisismadhurst

A qualified and experienced tutor having taught in the Eastbourne area for many years, Roz is again offering her popular East Dean Summer School programme.

One-day workshops for all interests and abilities are taking place over ten days from 24th July to 4th August in a large marquee in a lovely private garden.

They offer a mixture of subjects, including Nature Linocut, Ink Resist, Pastel Portraits, Wild Nature painting, Landscape Painting in the Cuckmere Valley, Collage and Paint, Botanical Painting and more… all details on the website.

From September Roz will be running new studio courses at Polegate Community Centre in their fantastic warm, light lounge space with parking outside, offering Mixed Media and Personal Projects.

She’ll also be teaching four new live Zoom courses which include demos, discussions and relaxed project working, with supportive individual and group feedback within small, friendly groups – offering Watercolour Techniques, Landscape Mixed Media, Pastel Portraits and Wildlife.

Individual personal or small group project working, mentoring or support sessions are available in Roz’s studio, students’ homes or online, please email for details. pto 4 Wildlife Zoom Class

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creative courses & workshops An Aberdeenshire painting holiday is piloting in August, and will be offered next year, along with other locations – keep an eye on the website for those, and online live demos.

Visit www.roznathanart.com for details and testimonials; roz.nathan@hotmail.com • 07913 080061 • and follow on Facebook and Instagram.

West Dean College of Art,

Design, Craft & Conservation In an ever-busy world full of never ending ‘to do’ lists, so many people are looking for the time and space to quieten the mind, reflect and let go.

• Stencil solar lithography, Mary Dalton, 24th to 27th August • Swiss straw work – millinery hat decorations, Veronica Main, 8th September Courses with new tutors Introducing courses for students to benefit from broadening skills and exploring new subjects.

• Painting wildlife with water-based oils, Steve Nayar, 4th to 18th July • Wild tools – making jewellery with the landscape, Jo McAllister, 16th to 18th July • Drawing to making, Natalie Ryde, 18th to 20th August • Pebble mosaics – traditional method, George Howarth, 18th to 20th August See all courses at www.westdean.ac.uk

Take the chance this summer to escape to the breathtaking setting of West Dean to draw, paint, print, sculpt, sew or write. With over 500 courses to choose from, keeping traditional crafts alive and being sustainable are at the heart of West Dean College. New tutors for 2023 offer a range of new courses to complement the exceptional creativity already on offer.

Traditional crafts Passing skills on to the next generation with our short courses supporting important heritage skills to learn hands-on skills that stand the test of time.

• Sculptural stone carving, Paula Haughney, 28th July to 3rd August

Photographs ©Thom Atkinson

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creative lifestyle

British Summer Mixed ...introducing Tea Spritz 4.8%

Extending the art of mixology to the great British traditional brew!

Wicker Basket's lightly sparkling Tea Spritz 4.8% makes a perfect addition to a summer picnic – in the beautiful Sussex countryside, seaside or at an outdoor theatre production, or to a barbeque in your own garden with family and friends.

In two refreshing flavours: vodka, Darjeeling tea, pear and cardamom; and gin, jasmine tea, lychee and rose, Wicker Basket Tea Spritz 4.8% is the invention of mixologist Ryu Okada.

Coming from Japan, a country steeped in the tradition of fragrant teas, Ryu was impressed when, arriving in the UK, he discovered that this country has such a rich heritage in tea. What we might consider the humble cuppa actually has a great pedigree and is essentially of very good quality.

The owner of a cocktail business, Ryu takes the art of mixing drinks very seriously – and it is an art.

Pairing ingredients that will complement and enhance each other is like choosing the exact right balance of colours for a painting, too much of one colour makes the whole picture too muddy, not enough of another leaves it too insipid. So it is with flavours.

So he decided to bring these two tea cultures together, Japanese and British, to highlight how versatile our national beverage actually is. Made with natural ingredients and enhanced with his own experience in mixing cocktails, the resulting tea spritz drinks are clean-tasting and delicious, adding a 21st century cousin to our traditional cup'o'cha!

For more information about Wicker Basket's Tea Spritz 4.8%, how they are made and where to find them, or to order direct with free delivery, please go to www.wickerbasketdrinks.com

Summer Quintessentially Mixed Wicker Basket | Tea Spritz 4.8% – Lightly Sparkling Tea Spritz, perfect for your picnic or garden party in two refreshing & tasteful flavours: Vodka, Darjeeling Tea, Pear & Cardamom 4.8% and Gin, Jasmine Tea, Lychee & Rose 4.8%

See website for stockists or to order direct (free delivery) www.wickerbasketdrinks.com ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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Coda A decade of ingénu/e I can’t quite believe it. We survived the pandemic and are surviving this extremely challenging economic period concurrent with a war of all things! Meanwhile, various media attempt to scare us half to death with their daily dose of bad news.

But we are still here and so are you!

And so, I now launch into my 40th Coda missive for your delectation.

The future is coming at us fast.

Are we ready?

There has been a debate raging for decades as to whether Science Fiction writers are in some way predicting the future or whether it is merely coincidence when something they have written becomes a fact or manifests itself in our modern culture. I have my own ideas about that, but nevertheless it is quite remarkable how, very recently, there have been news reports of UFOs being shot down in the USA and at the same time a remarkable upsurge in the progress of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.

Robots and AI were arguably first introduced to us via books and films late in the 19th Century and early in the 20th Century. The first mention of robots was in a play called R.U.R, which stood for Rossum's Universal Robots and was premiered at the National Theatre in Prague in 1921. Written by Czech writer Karel Capek, the play tells of bioengineered artificial humans, almost indistinguishable from humans, who do most of the world's labour so that their masters can enjoy a postwork utopia. Inevitably, the plan goes awry. Humans grow lazy and infertile while the robots plot revolution. Capek has been quoted as saying “This is not the machines’ fault, it is ours”.

Six years later the ground-breaking Fritz Lang film Metropolis was released, one of the first feature length 96

SF films, setting a trend that continues to this day. Following on we have had many SF novels, short stories and films about AI, some incredibly insightful.

One film that stands out for me is the 2014 psychological thriller Ex Machina, written and directed by Alex Garland and starring Domhnall Gleeson, Alicia Vikander and Oscar Isaac. Although released nearly ten years

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coda

ago, it is very germane to the current debate. In the film (spoiler alert) a very human and attractive looking robot demonstrates how far artificial intelligence could evolve by employing some incredibly intricate and clever scheming to persuade one of the characters to help her become free of her inventor. The result is disastrous.

Hold onto your hat! The future is actually here!

Coming back to the future, there is a news item that human commentators will be replaced by AI voiceovers on the Wimbledon app and website this summer. This is the brainchild of IBM whose PR release states that the AI commentator will use ‘tennis language’, with both male and female sounding voices, with no input from humans. Also, AI line judges are being considered for the future.

Advantage the Robots.

And what about Art with a capital A? Besides the fact that many SF writers and film makers are themselves artists, will there be any repercussions to artists of all genres from the increased use and technological advances of AI? Well we have already seen AI create fine art and there has already been some computer generated music. But I feel these were merely the starter course. What is to come will no doubt challenge and potentially outstrip the human artist, if one is to believe the AI prophets and their disciples. Let us hope they are wrong.

However there is some worrying evidence they might be correct. Our friends at Bedroom Producers Blog sent us a recent survey of the music industry which in part showed just over 86% think that AI music production tools will replace at least some of the current tools and 73% of surveyed producers think that AI music generators could replace human

music producers in the future. To view the full survey visit https://bedroomproducersblog.com/2023/05/30/ ai-music-survey/#.

OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT, is an AI research and deployment company whose mission, they say, is ‘To ensure that artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity. Our mission is to ensure that artificial general intelligence – AI systems that are generally smarter than humans – benefits all of humanity’.

Sound ominous? I particularly dislike the phrase ‘AI systems that are generally smarter than humans’ and I’m not sure I agree that is actually factual. How can something be smarter than that which created it?

There’s a question to keep philosophers up at night with their milk and cookies (in joke)!

But look at this… local author Garfield Collins submitted a flash fiction story to us about the attempted takeover of humankind by robots (see page 80). He wrote this well before the current discussion and hype going on about AI. It did seem to him that once AI's were allowed unfettered access to the internet then there was an opportunity for them to coordinate a revolution against humanity.

He ended by kindly saying “I hope that your magazine is doing well. It provides an excellent service for the creative South East.” Thank you Garfield.

However, although he wrote the flash fiction piece himself, he had also invited ChatGPT to write a sonnet about ingénu/e, which he sent to us. His brief to ChatGPT was ‘Write a poem in the sonnet style about an art magazine called ingenue’. Scarily enough, Chat’s response came within ten seconds. Here it is.

Ingenue, oh muse of art so fair, Your pages filled with beauty and grace, A source of inspiration rare, That transports me to another place.

In every issue, a masterpiece, A work of art to marvel and see, That speaks to me, the heart it frees, And fills my soul with harmony.

From the brushstrokes on the canvas spread, To sculptures carved in stone so fine, Every creation alive and bred, Ingenue, you bring them to shine.

In your pages, I find my reprieve, From the mundane, you help me believe.

Oh Ingenue, my heart's delight, In you, I find my solace bright.

The most worrying thing about it is – it’s not that bad! opp from top: artificial intelligence image by Gerd Altmann, Pixabay; Poster for a production of R.U.R. in New York, 1939; Machine Human, Maria from Metropolis, 1927; this page top: Alice Vikander as Ava in Ex Machina; right: ChatGPT image by Mojahid Mottakin

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coda As regards Humanity versus AI, I feel we are losing the first set and our serve has been broken. How are we going to fight back!!?? Gawd help us!!

On a lighter note…

One of the delights of working with an arts magazine is the opportunity it offers to visit artistic events and also sometimes meet and/or interview the creators. Recently we had the pleasure of seeing This Is My Theatre perform their take on Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights at the Hawth’s amphitheatre in Crawley. TIMT is a Sussex-based theatre company who tour all over and pride themselves on creating work for all spaces from historic buildings and churches to purpose built theatres and open-air venues.

The performance is reviewed on page 58 and it was a joy to behold. It’s marvellous to see such young, multitalented actors bring a story to life in their own unique way and to have an inspiring chat with them afterwards.

Look out for their summer tour of Robin Hood and Much Ado About Nothing. You are guaranteed an enjoyable and enthralling experience.

You may have noticed quite a few interviews in this special anniversary issue. This is another gift of working on an arts magazine – talking with such interesting people, as artists of all genres tend to be. So we have pushed the boat out as regards interviews in this issue.

And why not? I think these can be some of the more interesting aspects of the magazine, especially when the interviewee reveals the deeper aspects of their relationship with their craft or opens up about their life. I think there’s an argument to be had that creative people, artists of any persuasion, are usually the more interesting, intriguing and untamed of people.

As an example, we were recently in conversation with legendary drummer Mick ‘Woody’ Woodmansey at his rustic Sussex art studio. Over the last year or two he has turned his hand to painting, developing a second career as an artist. See Woody’s fascinating interview and view some of his art on page 42.

And finally I must give a big shout out and acknowledgement to all those subscribers, advertisers, distributors, outlets and admirers and, of course, the artists and contributors who have one way or another supported us for these ten years.

You know who you are.

You bring light, hope and aesthetics to an otherwise dark and troubled world.

And we do what we do for you.

top: The editor with This Is My Theatre cast after their open air performance of Wuthering Heights at The Hawth, Crawley. left: Drummer extraordinaire Woody Woodmansey

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LISTEN TO YOUR

IMAGINATION https://createmusic.org.uk/summer-school

Learn an instrument with createmusic.org.uk ingénu/e magazine – south downs and high weald : issue 40

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Gina Beck

The Sound of Music 10 Jul – 3 Sep Tickets from £10 Book at cft.org.uk www.cft.org.uk

Music by Richard Rodgers Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II Book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse Suggested by The Trapp Family Singers

by Maria Augusta Trapp

Sponsored by

https://www.cft.org.uk/

The Sound of Music is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd on behalf of The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organisation concordtheatricals.co.uk

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