Hidden Talents International Art Magazine

Winter 2024

P R E S T I G E A WA R D S W I N N E R

Explore the captivating world of

Katja Lührs Champions of Nature and Wildlife Conservation read her stories in both English & German

Peter Wood The Masterful Artist Behind the World's Most Exclusive Private Collections

Mike Goldmark in Conversation with David Irish

Chef Dean The New Taste Innovator to Watch plus

Nestled among smooth, weathered pebbles on a tranquil beach, Zuzana Konigová’s egg art radiates an ethereal glow. The delicate latticework of her creation catches the soft hues of a breathtaking sunset, its intricate patterns illuminated by the golden light. Behind it, the calm sea stretches toward the horizon, reflecting the fading warmth of the sky. The fragile beauty of the egg art, juxtaposed against the timeless stones, whispers of nature's harmony and the artistry of human hands.

TABLE OF

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Contents

EXPLORE THE CAPTIVATING WORLD

of Katja Lührs Champions of Nature and Wildlife Conservation read her stories in English

BENEATH THE

Winter Waves

11

NORTHERN LIGHTS OF

12

WHEN THE SEA

13

A JOURNEY THROUGH 20TH-CENTURY

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

PETER WOOD

20

MIKE GOLDMARK

26

CHEF DEAN

The Masterful Artist Behind the World’s Most Exclusive Private Collections

in Conversation with David Irish

The Future of Flavour Innovation

October in the UK

Meets the Sky

Art at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

28 31 34

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THE ART OF LIVING

with MS by Sairah Din

THE VIBRANT WORLD OF

Cioaca Irina

THE ESSENCE OF EARTH AND ART:

Madeleine Garcia Munzer – Ceramic Creations

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TRAPPED IN TIME:

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THE LITTLE WHITE CAT

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ENTDECKEN SIE DIE FESSELNDE

44

A CHRISTMAS Story

The Mystery That Changed One Ordinary Day Forever

by Award-winning Watercolour artist & Author Lizzie Jayne

Welt Von Katja Luhrs, Einer Verfechterin Des Natur- Und Wildtierschutzes

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WELCOME TO THIS SPECIAL EDITION OF

PROTECTING OUR PLANET THROUGH ART KATJA LUHRS

Hidden Talents Magazine !

Champions Nature and Wildlife Conservation

2024 Artist of the Year

In this issue, we embark on an extraordinary journey across the diverse landscapes of art, culture, and creativity. We’ve curated stories that celebrate the essence of expression—from the tranquil beauty beneath winter waves to the vibrant hues of ceramics and canvas. We begin with our cover feature, highlighting Katja Lührs and her inspiring work championing nature and wildlife conservation—a reminder of the powerful role art plays in preserving our planet.

Throughout these pages, you'll encounter a mosaic of talent: master artists like Peter Wood, whose collections capture the essence of exclusivity; engaging conversations with innovators like Mike Goldmark and David Irish; and intimate glimpses into the lives of those who transform their challenges into masterpieces, like Sairah Din’s heartfelt narrative on living with MS. We’re also delighted to introduce our German-language section, offering an international flavour that reflects the global reach of creativity.

Whether you’re exploring new artists, savouring a culinary journey with Chef Dean, or simply enjoying a festive story to get into the holiday spirit, we hope this magazine brings you inspiration and joy.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating the many talents that make our world a richer, more colourful place. Let this be an invitation to slow down, savour the stories, and perhaps discover a new favourite artist along the way.

Happy reading!

Warm regards, Evette Edmeade Hidden Talents International Magazine

DISCLAIMER Every care has been taken during the production of this magazine in compiling editorial and advertorial. However, The Arches Project Ltd cannpt accept responsibility for material supplied by third parties and excludes all liability relating to any products and services promoted within this publication or arising from any error, omission, or inaccurace, nor is The Arches Project Ltd responsible for the content of external websites. Finally, the views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher, no part of this magazine must be copied or reproduced without written permission from the publishers.

Copyright ©The Arches Project Ltd. All rights reserved

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T

he Earth is our shared home, a

and support biodiversity, which forms the

complex ecosystem that hosts

foundation for stable habitats. By safeguarding

countless life forms. However,

nature, we ultimately protect ourselves.

the challenges we face are

Each of us can make a difference. Small

immense. Climate change,

deforestation, pollution, and species extinction are just some issues that threaten our environment.

According to the Intergovernmental SciencePolicy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), up to one million species are at risk of extinction, endangering the natural world and human civilisation. In our pursuit of resources, humanity is "sawing off the branch we are sitting on," as though we have another precious Earth waiting for us to migrate to.

Protecting nature and animals is not only a moral duty but a necessity for our survival.

Healthy ecosystems provide us with clean air, water, and food, regulate the climate,

changes in daily life, such as avoiding singleuse plastic, supporting sustainable products, or participating in local conservation projects, can have a significant impact. Adopting a vegetarian diet—or even better, a vegan one—can also help conserve resources, while contributing to climate and environmental protection. Education is crucial, too: by

Ultimately, the responsibility to protect our planet lies with us. When we stand up for nature and

learning about the challenges and solutions,

animals, we are not only safeguarding their future but our own. Every individual has a role to play in

we can inspire and mobilise others.

creating a sustainable and fair world for future generations.

Supporting various measures to promote

Love is a theme found in all major world religions, including the message of Jesus. Those who live

conservation is vital. Protecting habitats,

with love do not wish to destroy nature and its creatures but to protect them.

reducing pollution, and advancing renewable energy are essential steps we must take as a society.

Each of us can begin today.

My motto is: protect the Earth, protect nature, protect animals. My oil paintings reflect this theme. My goal in life is to become a better person each day, with great love for people, animals, and nature

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B EN E AT H T H E WI NTE R WAVES Beneath the Winter Waves

THE GREAT MIGRATION OF FISH Beneath the waves, schools of fish—silver shoals of herring, mackerel, and sardines—begin their great migration.

As the waters cool, these fish sense the change in temperature and, guided by instinct, travel toward deeper waters where they will spend the winter months. They

The Secret Life of the Sea in Winter’s Twilight

follow invisible pathways, riding the cold currents to the south or diving into the deep, dark ocean where warmth lingers. For predators like sharks and seals, this season is a feast. They follow the fish closely, their streamlined bodies slicing through the cold waters, taking advantage of the abundance before the true freeze of winter sets in.

Other fish, like cod and haddock, adapt differently. Rather than flee, they slow down. Metabolisms drop, and they hover near the seabed, conserving energy for the colder months. Their movements become sluggish, and they bury themselves partially in the sand, blending into the winter seascape, waiting patiently for the spring thaw.

Plankton, the tiny, drifting organisms that form the base of the ocean’s food chain, begin to die off as the colder waters suppress their growth.

Without them, much of the marine food web is disrupted, forcing larger animals to search for new sources of sustenance. Jellyfish, fragile and translucent, drift lower, sinking to the deep

A

where they will enter a form of hibernation.

The whales, too, feel the call of winter.

s autumn slips into the embrace

Humpback and grey whales, who had spent

of winter, the sea undergoes a

the summer feeding in the rich northern seas,

profound transformation. The once

now embark on their long journey south to

placid, sun-warmed waters now

the warmer tropical waters. They swim vast

churn with the cold breath of the

distances, leaving behind the cold, icy realms

north, and the creatures of the deep sense the shift

they have called home for months.

long before the winds sweep across the surface.

The sunlight, once golden and abundant, fades quickly, leaving the ocean darker and quieter.

The surface waters cool rapidly, creating a sharp contrast between the layers of the ocean. Currents shift, moving nutrients in swirling underwater eddies, stirring up the sea in ways that feel both powerful and mysterious.

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A SILENT SHIFT FOR SEA CREATURES

For divers, the sea in winter offers a unique challenge. This is no longer the gentle

In the inky depths, where light barely penetrates, a quiet

underwater world of summer; it is a place

change ripples through the ecosystem. Octopuses

transformed by cold, darkness, and urgency.

retreat into rocky crevices, their skin shifting to mimic

But for some, this is a season of critical work.

the cold, grey hues of the surrounding landscape. Crabs and lobsters burrow deeper into the seabed, seeking

Divers, particularly those tasked with

the shelter of undersea ridges where the water remains

underwater maintenance and conservation,

marginally warmer. This is a time for survival.

have a special role during the colder months.

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The storm season above water wreaks havoc

increase in ferocity. Equipped with heavy

on coastal structures—underwater pipelines,

drysuits, the divers descend into waters where

shipwrecks, coral reefs, and even sunken

visibility is often reduced to mere feet, the

debris. The colder temperatures and the

world around them nothing but shadowy

shifting sea bed reveal long-forgotten wrecks

forms and the distant hum of turbines

and underwater treasures. Divers descend

spinning above.

into the depths to assess the damage, to inspect and repair underwater structures,

Elsewhere, marine biologists take to the

and to study how the creatures below are

deep, studying the behavior of creatures

adapting to the changes in the environment.

like crabs, sea urchins, and fish as they

October

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS OF

In The Uk

prepare for winter. Divers observe how kelp In the North Sea, winter divers brave frigid

forests, resilient to the cold, continue to

waters, working to maintain offshore

thrive, providing shelter for small fish and

wind farms. The turbines need constant

invertebrates. Even as the sea seems barren,

monitoring, especially as the winter storms

life continues, though in slow motion.

Then, slowly, something faint appeared—a glow at first, a whisper of green that softened the darkness.

Her phone screen pulsed with the shimmer, capturing every shade as the colours began to unfurl across the sky. She gasped, unable to look away, Streams of emerald and violet danced together, swirling across the heavens in a spectacle so vibrant, it seemed to bring the landscape to life.

A WORLD OF SHADOWS AND SILENCE The sea in winter is a world of shadows and silence. The vibrant reefs of summer are now

I

She felt a swell of wonder but also something deeper—a sense t was October 11th, and Nadine found herself alone in her garden on the edge of. A quiet road in the West Midlands standing under a vast and cloudless sky. Her phone pinged with an alert—"Rare Aurora Alert: Northern Lights visible across the UK

tonight." The notification felt surreal. She had always associated the aurora borealis with the icy Arctic, with remote landscapes she probably never see.

eerily still. Sea fans sway gently in the currents, their tendrils tracing invisible patterns in

Curious, she raised her phone to the dark horizon,

the water, but the vivid bursts of color have faded. The coral polyps withdraw, conserving

scanning the stars. She adjusted the camera settings, took

energy as the cold waters strip nutrients from their environment.

a breath, and waited. There was something electric in the air, a hush that seemed to hold the entire world still.

of change, of time bending and blending in the colours. This, she realized, was a moment she would carry with her forever. The Northern Lights—right here in the UK— glowing in the most unexpected season.

As the lights faded, Nadine glanced at the images she had taken. They were sharp, vibrant, and alive. A single phrase crossed her mind:

“Once in a decade.”

Writte n by Tayl o r H uds o n

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WHEN THE SEA

Meets the Sky

O

tury art was figurative expressionism. Originating in Germany in the early part of the century, it also drew from the French Fauvist movement. Other influential figures include Van Gogh, Gauguin, and Munch. The German expressionists have often

been characterized as "all substance and no style," while the French Fauvists are sometimes seen as "all style and no substance."

The movement's leading artists belonged to two main groups: Die Brücke (The Bridge) and Der Blaue Reiter

n the edge of the world, where the sea meets the sky, there exists a moment when everything blurs. The horizon

vanishes, the colours bleed together, and it feels as though the heavens and the ocean are one. I stood there, feet buried in the cold, wet sand, watching the storm swell on the horizon. Dark clouds churned and billowed, merging with the angry sea until the two were indistinguishable.

The wind came first, sharp and biting, whipping through the air with such force that it seemed to drown out the waves. The familiar crashing sound of water upon the shore faded, replaced by the howl of the wind as it surged through the sky, shaking everything in its path. For a moment, I felt suspended in the middle of it all—caught between the chaos of the storm and the silence that comes before it breaks.

It felt endless, this wild, untamed fury. The wind lashed against my skin, and the sky looked as though it might fall into the sea, taking the world with it. But deep inside, I knew—this would pass. All storms do.

And so, I waited. I watched the wind thrash

In that moment of

(The Blue Rider). While regarded

peace, when the

shared many visual similarities,

sea kissed the sky

contrasting colours, expressive

as distinct movements, they including the use of bright, brushstrokes, emotional content,

with tenderness, I

and distorted shapes and figures.

realized something.

Both movements also featured

No matter how loud

institutions, politicians, and bankers.

the storm, no matter

these artists to explore spirituality

challenging material, questioning There was a strong desire among and to critique the materialism,

how fierce the

industrialisation, and alienation

winds, calm always

of the modern world—a pattern

returns. The sea

throughout the century. One

may rage, and the

Kirchner, remarked, “What I want to

that would continue to recur of its major exponents, Ludwig produce is something compelling,

sky may darken, but

something full of excitement and intoxication of colour, something

both know that in

powerful.”

time, they will meet again under a quiet, peaceful horizon.

the waves until they no longer fought back,

12

O

ne of the major influences on the development of 20th-cen-

giving way to the quiet they had once

And so it is with life. The storms come, but

claimed. Slowly, the clouds parted, their

they never last. There will always be a moment

shadows lifting from the water. The sea

when the wind dies down, the waves return,

settled, its surface once again calm, and the

and calm sweeps over everything, soft as the

waves returned to their gentle rhythm.

evening tide.

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

EXPRESSIONISM AND ITS LEGACY.

A journey

through 20th Century Art at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

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The collection in Leicester was originally

Wassily Kandinsky, and others.

gathered by Alfred Hess, a German-Jewish shoe

Several memorable pieces stand out, such as

manufacturer who accumulated over 4,000 Many expressionists either served in or were

pieces and maintained close friendships with

directly affected by World War I, with some

many of the artists. After Hess’s sudden death in

volunteering and others being conscripted.

1931, his sons inherited the collection. Due to the

Artists such as Max Beckmann, Erich Heckel,

political turmoil in Germany during the 1930s,

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Max Pechstein, and Karl

they attempted to smuggle much of it out of

Schmidt-Rottluff all served, while Franz Marc

the country. Sadly, a significant portion was

and August Macke tragically lost their lives

intercepted and destroyed. What survives in

in combat. Although the initial expressionist

Leicester consists of the pieces they managed

movement had largely dissipated by 1914, the

to save. In 2014, the Leicester collection was

impact of the war is evident in much of their

further enriched by a donation of expressionist

work created after 1918. With the rise of the

paintings from Peter and Lai-ngau Pauson,

Nazis, their expressive works were condemned

whose family had ties to Alfred Hess and who

as "degenerate" and chaotic. During this

may have inherited some works during the Nazi

period, an infamous exhibition was organised

era.

by the Nazi regime to mock and denigrate

The Leicester collection forms a cohesive

these artworks.

whole, displayed sympathetically in one room

In Britain, one of the best places to view

under discreet lighting. A strong narrative runs

expressionist art is the Leicester Museum and

throughout the exhibition, which features works

Art Gallery on New Walk. It holds an extensive

by most of the movement’s key artists, including

permanent collection of expressionist art,

Max Beckmann, Alexander Archipenko, Otto

including drawings, etchings, large paintings,

Dix, Käthe Kollwitz, Paula Modersohn-Becker,

Otto Dix’s etching of stormtroopers advancing under gas—a haunting image of soldiers on the front lines, their masks resembling skulls.

Jawlensky’s intense portrait rendered in purples is another striking piece, while Oscar Kokoschka’s large, minimal poster demands attention with its quick, gestural execution.

There are also many small etchings with varied scenes and narratives. Look out for Alfred Kubin’s The Fugitive, depicting a barking dog confronting the police, and Lyonel Feininger’s small abstract figures, which might bring a smile to your face.

The expressionists were the original angry young men—the punks of their day. Some images are challenging, even disturbing, but they capture the raw emotions, disillusionment, and brutality of their era. I highly recommend visiting the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery if you’re interested in viewing a powerful and historically significant art collection.

small sculptures, and related documents.

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PETER WOOD

Biography B

secrets 17 Winter 23 Reflected light and thought f inal large 30 x 40 orn a “Moonraker” in 1951, close to

His work has been highlighted in numerous na-

Stonehenge in

tional and international publications, including

Wiltshire, England,

Leisure Painter, International Artist, S.A.A., and

Peter Wood was raised in a

Lincolnshire Today. His artworks have found

Royal Air Force family. His

homes in private collections across the globe,

ancestry is rich with intrigue:

from Quebec and the USA to Norway, Bar-

his father’s lineage traces

bados, Trinidad, Germany, New Zealand, and

back to Hampshire smugglers and Sussex horse dealers, while his mother descended from Sussex aristocracy. As a child, Peter travelled extensively, living in places such as Singapore and the Far East. Following his time at boarding school and further education at a technical college, he was accepted into Camberwell College of Art in London, where

Peter’s artistic skills are wide-ranging, covering all aspects of fine art, including drawing, painting in various mediums, ceramics, sculpture, woodcarving, mixed crafts, taxidermy, and more.

His keen interest in photography and filmmaking has led him to create over

he completed his Honours Degree. He later

1,300 films on his YouTube channel,

pursued a Postgraduate Teaching Qualification

featuring painting demonstrations and

at Brighton University, which paved the way

various other topics.

throughout Europe.

Peter’s career has been supported by galleries such as Washington Green and Castle Arts, and in 2020, he was invited to join the prestigious online gallery Singulart. The following year, he became an Associate Artist with Unison Colour Pastels, and in 2024, he was selected as a demonstrator for ArtProfile.

Currently, Peter resides in North Lincolnshire, where he maintains a home and studio near

for a teaching career in both state and private

Brigg. For six years, he also spent his summers

sectors, a path he followed until 1994.

in France, near Fresselines in the Creuse Valley, an area once frequented by Monet. During his time there, Peter was recognised as an artist of

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Judith s garden 30 x 40

the Creuse Valley, winning awards, exhibiting, judging, and teaching, until his full-time return to North Lincolnshire. In 2022, he was awarded “Best Colour” in The Ropewalk Open Exhibition, and in 2024, he won the Classic Boat Award from the Royal Society of Marine Artists at the Mall Galleries in London.

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Boatyard Barton 30 x 40 PETER STATES “Art, especially painting, is as essential to me as food—it’s an integral part of my well-being. I work across multiple mediums, exploring my emotions through both abstract and figurative forms, using whatever methods or combinations best suit the subject matter. The core of my work is rooted in Impressionism, capturing light, mood, atmosphere, texture, and dimension.

As a natural teacher, my passion for filmmaking and photography has enabled me to share my experiences with a global audience. I’ve had the privilege of living abroad in France, and serving as a resident artist in places such as the USA, Quebec, New Zealand, Cuba, Barbados, Norway, the Hebrides, and Ireland, as well as working in various stately homes and venues across the UK.” Confluence of the Creuse 30 x 42 Young woman at Montchenon 30 x 40

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PETER WOOD

For more about Peter Wood and his art, visit: GLOBE peterwoodarts.com

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A

Mike Goldmark

D

V

I

D

I

R

S

H

IN CONVERSATION WITH DAVID IRISH

I

Beyond the main entrance are further surprises, there

charting the gallery into new waters. In his words, I’m

being a large well-lit gallery upstairs, while other smaller

just a shopkeeper selling stuff. Although an understated

areas on the ground floor are a maze of discovery, each

response he not only buys and sells art, he has developed

corner sharing another name from the European art

other areas of the business through making informative

scene, Matisse, Leger and Chagall.

films about artists and ceramicists, having won prestigious

say it how it is. Therefore, it was refreshing to meet and interview Mike Gold-

But more about the gallery later, what I came for is an

awards. Also, they produce a high-quality art magazine,

mark, who is the visionary owner of Goldmark’s gallery, situated in the market

interview with Mike Goldmark. After leaving school he

town of Uppingham, about 15 miles east of Leicester.

started work in the retail business for Sainsburys and

t is not often you get to meet someone who speaks directly without a filter and

Marks and Spencer. Before long, he had moved onto selling ties and a particular type of tie, the Kipper tie.

Anyone with any fashionable dress sense in the late sixties

with in- depth articles on artists from around the world.

Further to this they have an atelier print works, where high quality limited prints are produced. Not forgetting, it is one of the few places in Britain to promote and focus on ceramics from around the world, being an integral part of the gallery. Without doubt he has a personal relationship

Wandering into the gallery off the main

a Spanish civil war. Instinctively your eyes dart

wouldn’t be seen without one, including popular groups

thoroughfare, you are immediately welcomed

around with the juxtaposition of different work.

such as the Kinks or the Move. Flush with the success of

by the staff who allow you to casually wander

It quickly becomes apparent, the selection of

the Kipper tie business, Mike moved to Rutland in the early

around enjoying the artifacts on display,

work on show has been carefully considered

70s to open a second-hand bookshop. Through a chance

without any hard sell or interference. The

and curated with love and care. Each piece

encounter with Rigby Graham, an excellent local artist,

Did you find starting a gallery difficult?

gallery has a lived-in cozy atmosphere as

works as part of the whole but also can be

Mike was introduced to complexities of the art world and

though you had inadvertently walked into

viewed individually. Within this framework are

Not really as I didn’t know what I was doing. However, I’ve

all its movements and isms. With this new found discovery

someone’s living room, surrounded by

large ceramic pieces and bronze sculptures

not found anything in life terribly easy. I learnt how to shop

he focused on mid-twentieth century art. From small

paintings, prints and bronzes. Over there in the

further adding to the congeniality of the

keep from Sainsburys and Marks and Spencer. After a

beginnings, the business exponentially expanded over

corner is a Graham Sutherland painting, while

atmosphere. First impressions are everything

while I realised, I didn’t like the model, their way of doing

the years to where he now employs forty members of staff

directly facing you is a colourful Rothenstein,

and you get everything you want from a gallery

things. I wanted to do things differently and that is what I

world-wide, who contribute to the success of the business.

while further to the right sits a large poster of

and more.

have done here. I’ve resisted opening in London or buying

It feels a family affair with Mike at the helm, always

other groups.

Picasso’s Guernica, reminding you, there was

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H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

with his stable of artists and staff, without this personal touch the gallery would be lesser for it.

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him. A fifty-thousand-pound debt and stolen three years of his life which he won’t get back. We are producing graduates who have no skills regarding art, they only have ideas. We have had a whole generation where we have stopped teaching people to draw. This has had a serious consequence on the education system, should they go into teaching. How can they possibly teach drawing and painting skills when they don’t know how to draw and paint. What is sad is a whole generation of students have been denied skills in favour of conceptual ideas. What I am interested in is stuff which engages me, that informs me something about the world I didn’t know before. Paintings can reveal themselves over time, they seep into the unconsciousness through viewing them every day.

Do you think there is a problem between skillbased art and the current vogue for identity and conceptualism in art?

background. He had bought a cheap book on Chagall and mounted some of the pictures in frames and put them on the wall. They were the first images I became aware of.

But don’t make the mistake of thinking my first interest is in art, it’s not, its shopkeeping. This is my sixty second year as a shopkeeper. I work seven days a week and I spend more time in my shop then I do at home. The stuff on the walls is a giant self-indulgence and I like to be surrounded by stuff I like. My eye has been educated by looking at Picasso, Chagall and many other artists. If people come to

The temptation must have been to open up in London?

One of the difficulties today is the short attention span,

If something looks like a rusty cabinet with a pair of

my shop and are interested in similar things to me rather

which has become shorter over the years. An example

football boots hanging off it with a glass of water on top,

than just an investment that is all well and good. It is a

It wasn’t mine and never has been. The globe is round and

would be films, which we are involved in, having won an

I assume that is exactly what it is. Its place is on a rubbish

shared interest.

wherever you place the pin, that is the centre.

international prize for film making. Most presume we are

dump and it’s not going to find a way into my gallery.

The internet must have had an impact on your gallery?

just an art gallery but we have been making films for a quarter of a century. A few years ago, we produced a film

I will have to stop you there and ask you a question, what do you think of Duchamp?

Do you think there is a disconnection between high and low art and taste and how that taste is governed?

I think some of his early work was quite interesting.

Its just stuff, all stuff. The names we give stuff is irrelevant.

Unfortunately, the ideas have been used by others which

I would rather a world without words. If we didn’t have

has been hugely unfortunate.

words we wouldn’t lie. Different societies value different

on Rigby Graham who is sadly no longer alive. The film

It made a huge difference to us. It enabled us to have a

was called an Irish Journey. One of the scenes included

world-wide spread.

Rigby Graham painting and talking about himself and art.

What do you think of the state of art in this country?

It was situated in a cemetery. The scene lasted for three

types of stuff, in different ways. At the moment the stuff

and a half minutes. The unwritten law is to keep scenes

It is an excuse for poor art.

moving, flashing from one moment to the next. Any given

Yes, it’s not my sort of thing. I had a young man in here

shot should not extend over seven seconds. We chose

who was at art college, he had been told he was a genius.

to do it differently and allow the scene to speak for itself,

He put some of his work on the floor to view. I said there

rather than doing it for mere entertainment value.

was a slight problem as you don’t know how to draw. To

up between someone who has something to say and

Do you have an opinion about art education in this country?

which he replied you need to understand it’s not about

those who do it for a hobby or self-expression. It is the

I am not particularly familiar with art education but I will

democratisation of our world that everyone has a voice.

recount an incident a few years ago where I was asked

Sometimes those who shout the loudest get a platform.

to view an ex-art students work. He had no examples

Presently mediocrity is promoted because there is money

of drawing whether in a sketchbook or figure work

in it.

on paper. He informed me nude figurative work had

I hear what you are saying. The problem is it has to be

become politically incorrect. Due to his lack of drawing I

instantaneous. The three minute pop tune would be a

suggested when he leaves me to purchase a sketchbook

perfect example of wanting an immediate reaction from

including some materials and get himself a job. To work

Most are fearful of expressing their opinions for fear of offending somebody. You have been in this business for fifty years; you have an opinion and a strong one. When did you first become interested in art?

the listener. 95% of it is forgettable.

on his artwork every night, then show me what he had

I think around the age of five or six. I’m first generation

done. Later I reflected on what had art college given

in this country. My father came from a European

One of the major problems relating to the arts is the inability for most, to differentiate between the sublime, wonderful and mediocre. Everyone should be encouraged to write, paint, produce poetry but just because you do, doesn’t necessarily warrant promotion. People get mixed

22

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

how well I draw, it’s about my energy, enthusiasm and concept. To which I replied, next time you go to the dentist go and choose one with energy, enthusiasm and a concept and see how you get on.

which makes the most money are oil paintings. The stuff that makes the least are original etchings. Upstairs you can purchase a bowl to use for between hundred to a hundred and forty pounds by a world renown ceramicist. In Japan because they value things differently, they would go for thousands. There is a lot of stuff which is rubbish but if you shout loud enough it will be worth something. In this country there is a huge disparity in wealth. There are those who can hardly afford to feed their children and there is a tiny number of people who have huge amounts of money.

More than they can spend if they lived twenty life times.

They have to spend their cash on something and there is a whole industry devoted to taking their money off them.

The easiest way to do it is present them with garbage and convince them you need to own a bit of this. They won’t necessarily put it on their walls but keep it stashed in a Swiss vault because it goes up in value.

Hidden Ta lents Ma ga zine 2024

23

Have you ever made art yourself?

Finally, have you ever thought about writing your autobiography?

No, I say no I did make some art

Every day is a learning day. Has running a gallery been stressful, I imagine it hasn’t been easy?

with one of the artists I work with.

It hasn’t been easy. One of the reasons it hasn’t been

I have started writing a book. Each section is about

All it did was to convince me to

easy is we are not profit led; we are project led. Most

somebody who I have worked with. I have been very

keep to shopkeeping.

people presume if you are a shop keeper you are just

blessed and lucky with who I have worked with, I wish

Ceramics could you say something

there to make money. If someone came in here and

to celebrate it.

said if you do this you could make a fortune, that’s not

about it, as it’s an important aspect

for us. We do things that are worth doing. Sometimes

of the gallery?

it is harder than others. Yes, on occasions it has been

We are very big in ceramics; I’ve

stressful.

been involved with it for fifty years. shopkeepers sold pots, as the

Has the vision you had when starting the gallery, gone beyond your expectations?

potter took all the risks and the

I didn’t see all of what has happened. After about

gallery took all the money. When

fifteen years working in the gallery, I had an epiphany

I started selling pots, I looked

which made me consider how I did things. It was

around me how others did things.

then I realised how I could expand its world-wide. The

One of the easiest things in life

vision came in a twenty-minute walk. I’ve spent the

is to look at how everyone else

last thirty years bringing it to fruition.

does it and do a hundred- and

Have you any advice for anyone wishing to open a gallery or enter the art market?

I always disliked the way my fellow

different to others. When I started people would have

Did you ever have the opportunity to meet any of the major artists you display in your gallery i.e. Picasso etc?

a show of eighty pots and sell about twenty or twenty-

No, I’m very shy (tongue well and truly in cheek) I’ve

eighty-degree turn. You would be surprised how often that works. We do everything

five. The show upstairs will have about five hundred pots in it I will probably sell a good four hundred around the world. The main reason why I sell pots is

turned down the opportunity to meet major artists.

Never meet your heroes.

for the younger generation as they spend a good part

I don’t know if they are my heroes. I’ve avoided on the

of their lives in a virtual world. When they come out

most part committees, television and dinner parties.

of that virtual world, we give them machine made

Theres nothing wrong with those things, it’s just not

products, whereas a pot is unique and they can use it

how I operate. Instead, I’m interested in people who

every day. Through osmosis it changes them. If they

walk through the door and what they have to teach

buy a cheap pot nothing happens whereas if they buy

me. Only recently a gentleman came in. A friend

one of ours it will make a difference to them.

had advised him, you can’t visit Uppingham without

Do you think art can have a transformative effect?

coming to this gallery. He’d seen something in the

A ceramic pot is different to a painting. It is made with basic elements, it is fundamental. Earth, wind, fire and water. It is uniquely made, possibly by one of the world’s greatest makers. I can’t think of another discipline where you can buy something for around a hundred pounds which can change you.

people and how people come together, not just

and spiritual speaker. Kahil Gibran who wrote the prophet, a book about life and the human condition.

Herman Hess, a writer who was influenced by Indian mysticism and wrote a book called Siddartha and another famous one, Der Steppenwolf.

Have you ever been involved in sport, if so, what?

Australian Ambassador. You have no idea who you are

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

glaringly apparent during our conversation, Mike

Jiddu Krishnamurti an Indian philosopher, writer

said yes. He decided not to go upstairs to see further

why he was in Japan, to which he replied, I was the

as were answered. The one aspect that became

His model of success as he explained, is about being

No, I don’t think so.

spending a good part of his life in Japan. I asked him

forthright response. It threw up as many questions

Which three people would you invite to your dinner party?

wanted it. He then asked can we ship it to Australia. I

mentioned he’d too many already, mainly due to

It was a pleasure to do the interview, a fascinating and

has done things his way, with a different approach.

window it was nine hundred and fifty pounds and he

ceramic pots as he would have bought more. He

Thank you and thanks for being so honest, it was a great discussion.

Don’t do it.

It would make an interesting conversation. I wonder if they would be competitive?

talking to, when they walk through the door.

24

I would write something but not publish it. In fact,

I used to run and it wasn’t just for fun.

The only sport I do now is a form of Tai chi.

project led and not prophet led. That concept is so important to the ethos of the shop. It’s about about financial gain. It’s a gallery like no other and tucked away in a small market town in the middle of England. Long may it continue.

CHEF DEAN

The Taste Innovator

3. Pan-Fried Hake with Mussels in a Bouillabaisse Sauce A French Classic, Reinvented: Delicate hake fillets, pan-fried to a perfect crisp, rest atop plump mussels immersed in a rich bouillabaisse sauce. The dish captures the essence of traditional French coastal

A promising culinary artist

cuisine with a modern touch,

blending classic techniques with

offering a harmony of fresh

innovative twists. His creations are

seafood flavors in every bite.

a feast for the eyes and the palate.

1. Fried Shiitake Mushrooms in Bang Bang Sauce, Garlic Aioli Crunchy, Spicy, and Addictively Savory: Chef Luca’s crispy fried shiitake mushrooms are tossed in a fiery Bang Bang sauce, giving them a bold kick. The creamy garlic aioli on the side provides the perfect balance, making each bite a burst of umami and spice.

2. Mussels in Harrissa White Wine Sauce A Taste of the Sea with a Classic Twist: Fresh, tender mussels bathed in Chef Dean signature Harrissa white wine sauce. This dish features a fragrant blend of garlic, shallots, and herbs, all enhanced by the depth of the wine. It's a light yet flavorful seafood delicacy that embodies coastal elegance.

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H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

4. Scallops with Spinach Emulsion, Pickled Rhubarb Elegant, Balanced, and Unexpected: Seared scallops are paired with a vibrant spinach emulsion, adding a fresh, earthy note to the dish. The pickled rhubarb introduces a surprising pop of tartness, cutting through the rich flavors and making each bite a unique experience of taste and texture.

27

I

was once asked

Depression consumed me to the point

why I paint. I

where I didn’t think I could live like this

thought for a

anymore. There was a soul inside me

moment, then

that wanted to express so much, but it

answered, "When

was locked in a body that could do very

I paint, I no longer think

little.

of the painful past or

After being discharged from a

my frightening future.

I’m just in the present moment, and that’s a beautiful place to be."

I was diagnosed with primary progressive MS in 2008. I knew it meant I would deteriorate and continue to do so, but I had no idea of the emotional toll it would take. My life changed drastically. I went from being a perfectly fit, independent person— married with two

traumatic two-week stay in the hospital, I vowed never to return. A friend had bought me a set of paints, brushes, and a canvas. Everything was set up for me. I could barely move my arms, but I grabbed the brush with both hands, steadying it by placing the end in my mouth, dipped it in the nearest colour, and began dabbing the paint. I had no idea what I was going to paint—it just emerged. I hadn’t felt so alive in a long time. I became so immersed that I forgot the pain. When I had painted halfway, my son flipped the canvas for me since I couldn’t reach any higher, and I continued painting upside down.

I loved how I felt while painting, and the finished product was admired by everyone.

This became my routine. Someone would set everything up, ensuring I could reach the materials, and I would paint either my emotions or places I escaped to in my mind.

children, a head of mathematics, someone who loved to party, do DIY projects, garden, and so much more to being divorced, permanently in a wheelchair, needing carers four times a day, and barely able to feed myself.

PAINTING MY WAY THROUGH PAIN

The Art of Living with MS by Sairah Din 28

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29

THE VIBRANT WORLD OF

Cioaca Irina A Journey Through Colour and Emotion

My arms are a little stronger now, so I can flip the canvas myself, though I still need two hands to hold the brush. Who knows—maybe in the future, I’ll only need one.

I can barely leave the house, but through painting, I travel everywhere in my mind.

Recently, I’ve started painting on 7-inch vinyl records.

I love the idea of transforming these unwanted, unloved records—objects that once brought people joy—into pieces of art that don’t need to be discarded.

Cioaca Irina, a dynamic artist from Craiova, Dolj, Romania, is rapidly making a name for herself

In the future, I plan to paint unwanted shoes. I haven’t

in the world of contemporary art. A graduate of the High School of Fine Arts, she has already left

been able to wear shoes in the past year because my

her mark with five significant exhibitions in both Bucharest and her hometown, showcasing a

legs spasm too much, and my feet are too swollen.

style that blends vivid expression with emotional depth. Guided by her motto, "Nothing without

But who knows what possibilities await?

art," Irina embodies a philosophy where creativity isn't just a practice but a way of life—a belief reflected deeply in every piece she creates.

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31

Irina’s work is a bold exploration

Irina’s artistic evolution is remarkable,

of colour, form, and emotion.

not only because of her technical skill

Her paintings radiate with an

but also for her ability to infuse her

intense energy, whether they

work with a sense of purpose. Her

depict abstract landscapes,

motto, "Nothing without art," is more

human figures, or symbolic

than just a slogan—it’s a declaration of

representations. Her technique,

her dedication to art as the core of her

a balance between abstract and

being. For Irina, art is not a luxury or an

figurative, is distinctive—she

addition to life; it is an essential force,

builds layers of vibrant colour

shaping how we perceive the world

that seem to pulsate with life,

and ourselves. This belief is palpable

creating a dialogue between

in her paintings, where the passion

the visible and the invisible,

for creation shines through in every

the external and the internal.

brushstroke.

It is this mastery of contrast

In a world where the meaning of art

that gives her art its unique

is constantly evolving, Cioaca Irina’s

appeal, drawing viewers into a

work stands out for its authenticity.

contemplative, almost immersive

She doesn’t follow trends; instead, she

experience.

creates from a place of deep personal vision. Her pieces are invitations to pause, reflect, and feel—to remember that art is not just something to be seen, but something to be experienced profoundly.

As Irina continues to gain recognition, she remains rooted in Romania's cultural richness, drawing inspiration from its traditional beauty and contemporary complexity. Her journey is just beginning, but with her powerful vision, technical mastery, and unwavering commitment to her craft, Cioaca Irina is poised to become a leading figure in the Romanian art world.

Her exhibitions, whether in the bustling galleries of Bucharest or the quieter spaces of Craiova, are not just displays of talent—they are

Her exhibitions in Bucharest, a city known for its thriving cultural scene, have placed her on the map as a promising voice in Romania’s next generation of artists. These showcases, each uniquely themed, highlight her versatility—from deeply introspective works to pieces that celebrate the landscapes and traditions of Romania with a modern twist. In Craiova, her hometown, Irina's exhibitions feel especially personal, as they resonate with the local heritage and environment that have been a constant source

expressions of a life dedicated to creativity. For Irina, there is nothing without art, and with each new work, she invites us to embrace that same vision.

of inspiration for her.

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H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

Hidden Ta lents Ma ga zine 2024

33

I

’m Madeleine Garcia Munzer, born in Bogotá, Colombia, with a mix of German, Cuban, and Spanish heritage. Since childhood, I’ve been involved in the arts—from

dancing ballet to taking after-school painting lessons and attending creative summer camps. I feel these experiences helped spark my creativity, especially when it comes to digital products. In 1996, I decided to study marketing and advertising, later specialising in graphic design in Madrid, followed by a master’s in digital humanities in London. Spending so much time in front of a screen has made satisfying my tactile urge essential. For years, I’ve felt the need to use my hands;

My journey started three years ago when I

that tangible, tactile feeling of creating

took my first pottery course at a small studio

has always captivated me. In the past,

called SakBeh in North London—and I’ve been

while living in Madrid, I was fairly into knit-

completely obsessed ever since. Hungry for

ting and crocheting, but now it’s pottery

more skills, I studied with Maryse Swanson, a

that has taken hold of me.

teacher at Turning Earth in Leyton. (If you’re

Madeleine Garcia Munzer

considering beginning your own pottery journey, check out ClayHouse, Maryse’s new studio in Crouch End. Her charisma and patience truly helped me build my confidence.) I also tried short courses in specific techniques like slip casting, as I wasn’t quite brave enough to work alone in the studio. After an enforced (and frustrating!) eight-month break following knee surgery, I finally joined a studio near my home at the start of 2024.

Recently, I moved to another studio, Stable

think that each object should be fun too. Like a mug with a message, a bowl decorated with cactus transfers, or a vase where the glaze is interrupted to add texture and reduce its gravity. Each piece has a unique twist, and I hope it tells a story. If I get it right, the result should make me smile.

My inspiration comes from films, music, friends,

where a community of about 20 people works

cities, and daydreams—almost anything.

in a beautiful, cosy space. We share knowledge,

Objects, conversations, or images can spark

tools, and plenty of good laughs!

ideas for how I’d like to decorate my work. I

experiment with forms, colours, underglaze, and decals, so everything I make is a little quirky. I’m fascinated with the process itself—enjoying what unfolds as I work, rather than planning too far ahead. Mainly, I enjoy throwing on the wheel, and making small batches of items as I explore new ideas. Most

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

a vase, bowl, or lemon squeezer, but I like to

Yard Pottery, run by a group of local potters,

My creativity and passion drive me to

34

of my pieces serve practical functions, whether

enjoy experimenting with different colours and don’t stick to a specific palette. Recently, many of my pieces have featured shades of blue, green, white, or nearly black. Decoration is a crucial part of my process, usually starting after I’ve thrown the pieces. I can spend weeks thinking about how I’ll decorate them; it’s my favourite part of the process and one I find very relaxing and meditative.

Hidden Ta lents Ma ga zine 2024

35

Since I started working independently, I’ve

The more I read about puffins, the more

been documenting my process. Capturing

fascinated I became. Their unique shape,

this journey has been invaluable—I can see

blending elements of penguins and other

what I’m doing wrong, and by sharing it, I

birds, and the beautiful colours of their beaks

hope to help and inspire others just starting

make them enchanting to me. Sadly, they

their ceramic adventures. In a world where

are also becoming increasingly rare. So, when

so many ceramic pieces are machine-made,

I needed a brand name, I didn’t want to use

it feels right to show the steps, learning, and

my own; the work is what matters. ‘Puffin’ felt

occasional failures behind each of my creations.

right, capturing that colourful rarity in a “sea” of

You can follow my journey on Instagram at @

potters and ceramists.

puffin_ceramics, where I share my process and

Thank you for this space to share a bit about

updates on new pieces ready to find a home.

I recently launched my online store and am always open to the challenge of commissions!

TRAPPED IN TIME

The Mystery That Changed One Ordinary Day Forever

myself. I hope to keep sharing my love for this beautiful craft, bringing a bit of joy into people’s lives along the way!

You might wonder, why Puffin Ceramics?

Years ago, I found a small metal stamp with a

Photo credit: Courtesy of Stable Yard Pottery

puffin design—I fell in love with it immediately.

L

anzarote’s landscapes are as

The Fire Mountains of Lanzarote

imposing as they are unique. A

If it were not for the intense blue of the sky,

significant part of this charm is due to the Timanfaya National Park, which stands out as the

only national park in the Spanish network of an entirely geological nature. It is the result of volcanic eruptions that occurred between 1720 and 1736, and later in 1824.

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H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

many photos taken in Lanzarote could easily be mistaken for landscapes from Mars. The volcanoes and fields of virgin lava in this national park, covering over 5,000 hectares near the west coast of Lanzarote, offer one of the most visually striking and picturesque spectacles of the Canary Islands. It remains

The absence of vegetation, the extreme

unaltered by human hands. Neither the

ruggedness of the terrain, the variety of

vegetation nor the climate has had time to

colours, the silhouettes of volcanoes, and

change the raw beauty of this red and black

the jagged coastline all contribute to the

land, which has been included in the UNESCO

extraordinary beauty of Timanfaya.

Network of Biosphere Reserves.

Hidden Ta lents Ma ga zine 2024

37

While resting, something caught Andy’s eye — a small, bright green gecko scuttling across a piece of volcanic rock. It was such a simple yet beautiful sight.

He pointed it out to Jamie, and they both watched as it darted between crevices, blending in and out of view. That was the moment an idea struck Andy’s.

He thought to himself, What if I could recreate this moment? What if I could bring a piece of Lanzarote back home, not just as In the summer of 2024, Andy, a father of

shake a nagging thought: what would he bring

a souvenir, but as an experience, a memory, for my

three, decided to take his eldest son, Jamie,

back for the rest of the family? He wanted to

other children?

on a special holiday to Lanzarote. Jamie had

give his two younger children, Lily and Ben,

just turned 16, and this was to be his first trip

something truly special, something that would

abroad. Andy had saved up for months for

capture the essence of the trip.

this moment. Although it pained him not

As the days went by, they continued to explore

the vibrant life that thrived there. However, as their

the island. Andy took Jamie on an 8-hour

holiday came to an end, he still hadn’t found the

bike ride, a journey that would become the

right materials or inspiration to start his project. On

highlight of their trip. They rode through

their way to the airport, they passed a small market

the rugged landscapes, pedalling past fields

with a stall selling artificial geckos made of plastic.

of black volcanic ash, and up towards The

They weren’t perfect, but Andy saw potential. He

Montañas del Fuego, or Fire Mountains, in the

bought a few, imagining them as the centrepiece

The two of them landed in Lanzarote under a

Parque Nacional de Timanfaya. The landscape

of his creation.

bright summer sun. The island, with its stark

was mesmerizing, almost like a scene from

volcanic landscape, felt almost otherworldly.

another planet. They paused at the top,

It was a far cry from the familiar green fields

catching their breath and looking out at the

and grey skies of the UK. Andy and Jamie

vast expanse of hardened lava, volcanic craters,

spent the first couple of days exploring the

and the occasional puff of steam rising from

beach, swimming in the clear blue waters, and

the ground.

to be able to take the whole family due to financial constraints, he knew this trip would be a memorable experience for Jamie. It was a chance to bond with his son, to give him a taste of adventure, and to celebrate this milestone in his life.

enjoying the local cuisine. Yet, Andy couldn’t

When he finally revealed his masterpieces to his family, he was nervous but hopeful. He handed the jars to Lily and Alfie, explaining the inspiration behind them — the incredible bike ride with James’s stunning volcanic landscapes, and the

The rest of the trip, Andy couldn’t get the idea out

vibrant little geckos that had sparked his idea.

of his head. He envisioned creating something

Lily’s eyes lit up as she held the jar up to the light,

that captured the unique volcanic landscape and

Back in the UK, Andy was determined to bring his vision to life. He checked online for local car boot sales, hoping to find some volcanic rocks or stones that resembled the ones he had seen in Lanzarote.

To his surprise, there was one happening just a short drive away. He took a chance and went,

watching the sand and stones shift like the dunes of a tiny desert. Alfie traced his finger over the gecko, fascinated by its vivid colour and realistic pose.

“This is from your trip?” Lily asked, her voice filled with wonder.

“Yes,” Andy replied, smiling. “This is a little piece of Lanzarote, just for you.”

The room filled with a warm silence as the kids admired their gifts. Andy looked over at James, who gave him a knowing smile. It was a look that said, We did this together.

sifting through various stalls until he found one

For Andy, it wasn’t just about the physical gifts

selling a variety of stones. Among them were

he had created. It was about the experience, the

some dark, porous rocks that reminded him of the

memories shared with his eldest son, and the joy

volcanic stones they had seen. He bought them

of bringing a small piece of that adventure back

immediately, feeling a rush of excitement.

home for the rest of his family. The jars now sat

Over the next few weeks, Andy dedicated his evenings to crafting his gifts. He gathered volcanic rocks, sand, and small glass jars. He carefully glued the artificial geckos onto the rocks, positioning them as if they were basking in the sun. He poured a layer of sand into the bottom of the jars to mimic

proudly on a shelf in their living room, a constant reminder of that unforgettable summer. And every time Andy saw them, he was reminded of the bond he had strengthened with Jamie and the inspiration he had found in the simple beauty of nature.

the desert-like landscape of Lanzarote. Piece by piece, he assembled his creations, each one a small world encapsulating the spirit of the island.

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H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

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39

The Little White

O

n her difficult days, Petal would wander down to the beach and watch the stars come out to play. She always

Cat

DEN PLANETEN DURCH KUNST SCHÜTZEN: KATJA LUHRS

Künstlerin des Jahres 2024 setzt sich für Natur- und Artenschutz ein

But then why would she? She didn’t adorn a coat of jet-black velvet or striking splashes of burnt orange as they did, nor

marvelled at how beautiful each one

did she have long fur that would dance like candy floss when

was and how they would sparkle against

she moved. She didn’t have fancy bells or bows or striking

the black drop of the ocean's sky.

green eyes, neither did she have long curly whiskers or a fluffy tail, in fact, she didn’t stand out at all. No, she was plain and simple and different from the others. On some days she was okay with that, but on others, she felt sad. Today had been one of those days.

Then Petal heard a gentle voice whisper. She looked up and saw a star dancing above the waves.

“Why do you want to be like the rest?” said the star. “Don’t you know you are the most beautiful cat I’ve ever seen? The other cats all look the same, but your white coat is like pure snow; a rare beauty, and I haven’t seen many like you before.

Don't doubt your worth Petal, or change to fit in. Hold your whiskers high and just be you, then you will shine brighter than all of them put together!”

The star twinkled for a moment and then shot out into the night sky leaving only a trail of stardust behind.

As Petal watched the star disappear, she realised it was right.

Her plain coat of white was the very thing that had caught the star's eye. Had she had a coat of jet-black patches or burnt orange splashes, she would never have been noticed.

It was only now that she realised her difference also made her shine against the black drop of the ocean's sky. Now why

Petal wished she could sparkle like those stars too and stand out like the other cats in the neighbourhood, but she was always overlooked and she knew she could never match up to them.

40

would she want to change that?

Don’t change to fit in and be like the crowds.

Just be you.

Now go shine.

Original art & Short Story ~ Lizzie Jayne (c) 2024.

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

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41

Der Schutz von Natur und Tieren ist nicht nur

Es ist wichtig, verschiedene Maßnahmen

eine moralische Verpflichtung, sondern auch

zu unterstützen, die den Naturschutz

eine Notwendigkeit für unser Überleben.

fördern. Lebensräume zu schützen,

Gesunde Ökosysteme versorgen uns mit

Umweltverschmutzung vorzubeugen und

sauberer Luft, Wasser und Nahrung. Sie

erneuerbare Energien zu fördern, sind

regulieren das Klima und sind entscheidend

entscheidende Schritte, die wir als Gesellschaft

für die Artenvielfalt, die die Grundlage stabiler

gehen müssen.

Lebensräume bildet. Wenn wir die Natur

Letztendlich liegt es an uns, die Erde zu

schützen, schützen wir auch uns selbst.

D

ie Erde ist unser gemeinsames

Laut dem Weltbiodiversitätsrat IPBES

Zuhause, ein komplexes Öko-

(Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on

system, das unzählige Lebens-

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services) sind bis

formen beheimatet. Doch die

zu eine Million Arten vom Aussterben bedroht,

Herausforderungen, denen

was nicht nur die Tierwelt, sondern auch

Jeder von uns kann etwas bewirken. Kleine

einsetzen, sichern wir nicht nur ihre Zukunft,

Veränderungen im Alltag, wie der Verzicht

sondern auch unsere. Jeder einzelne Mensch

auf Einwegplastik, die Unterstützung

sollte sich angesprochen fühlen zu handeln,

nachhaltiger Produkte oder die Teilnahme an

um eine nachhaltige und gerechte Welt für

lokalen Naturschutzprojekten, können große

zukünftige Generationen zu schaffen.

Auswirkungen haben.

Auch in allen großen Weltreligionen spielt die

Eine Fleisch und Fisch freie – und

Liebe eine Rolle – so auch in der Botschaft

damit vegetarische und umweltfreundliche –

Jesu. Wer Liebe in sich trägt, möchte die Natur

Ernährung ist ein weiterer Schritt zur Rettung

und ihre Geschöpfe nicht zerstören, sondern

des Planeten Erde.

schützen. Jeder von uns kann heute damit

Noch besser als ist eine vegane

beginnen!

Ernährung: Sie schont Ressourcen am besten

Mein Motto lautet: Schütze die Erde, schütze die

und trägt zum Klima- und Umweltschutz

Natur, schütze die Tiere. In meinen Ölgemälden

wir gegenüberstehen, sind enorm. Klimawan-

die menschliche Zivilisation gefährdet. Der

del, Abholzung, Umweltverschmutzung und

Mensch in seiner Gier sägt ständig an seinem

Artensterben sind nur einige der Probleme, die

Ast, auf dem er sitzt, und glaubt scheinbar, wir

unsere Umwelt bedrohen.

haben noch andere Planeten wie die kostbare

bei.

spiegel sich genau dieses Thema wieder. Mein

Erde und könnten dorthin auswandern.

Indem wir uns für die Natur und Tiere

Sinn des Lebens ist, jeden Tag ein besserer

einsetzen, sichern wir nicht nur ihre Zukunft, sondern auch unsere.

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schützen. Indem wir uns für Natur und Tiere

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

Mensch zu werden! Mit viel Liebe zu Mensch, Tier und Natur.

Hidden Ta lents Ma ga zine 2024

43

S T O R Y

C H R I S T M A S 44

The shepherds, filled with awe and excitement, hurried to Bethlehem to see this miraculous child. When they arrived at the stable and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus, just as the angel had said, they knelt in wonder. The

THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM:

A Christmas Story

I

humble shepherds were the first to witness the greatest gift ever given—God’s own Son, born to bring hope, love, and salvation to all.

Meanwhile, the star continued to shine brightly in the sky, guiding the Magi on their journey. After travelling for many weeks, they finally arrived in Bethlehem. When they saw In Bethlehem, the town was crowded with people who

the child, they were overcome with joy. Bowing down,

had travelled far and wide to be counted in the census

they offered their gifts—gold, a symbol of Jesus’ kingship;

decreed by Caesar Augustus. Among them were Joseph, a

frankincense, representing His divine nature; and myrrh, a

carpenter, and Mary, his young wife. Mary was expecting a

foretelling of His future sacrifice.

child, but not just any child. This child was promised to her

The wise men knew they were standing in the presence

by an angel, who had told her that she would bear the Son

of someone far greater than any earthly king. They

of God—the Savior of the world.

had found the One they had been searching for—the

But despite this heavenly promise, their journey to

promised Savior, the reason for their long journey, and the

Bethlehem had been difficult. After days of travelling, they

reason for the world’s hope.

arrived to find no room in any inn. The town was full, and

In the quiet of that stable, with the light of the star

every door they knocked on was turned down. Finally,

overhead, the world’s greatest story began. Jesus had

a kind innkeeper took pity on them and offered them a

come—God’s gift to all of humanity. Born not in a palace,

place in his stable—a humble shelter where animals slept.

but in a manger. Not with riches or power, but with

It was not the place anyone would expect the birth of a

humility and love. He came to be the light in the darkness,

King, but for Mary and Joseph, it was enough.

the hope for the lost, and the Saviour for all people,

And so, on that silent night, in the most humble of

regardless of their status or wealth.

settings, Mary gave birth to her son. She wrapped him in

This is the true meaning of Christmas. It’s not about the

cloths and laid him in a manger—a feeding trough for

gifts under the tree or the lights that decorate our homes.

animals. But though the place was simple, the moment

It’s not about the feasts or

was filled with wonder and awe. For this baby, born in such

the festivities. Christmas

lowly circumstances, was the light of the world. His name

is about Jesus—the child

was Jesus, and He was the reason for the season.

born in Bethlehem, who

t was a quiet night in Bethlehem, the kind where the stars seemed

Out in the fields nearby, shepherds were keeping watch

came to bring light, love,

to shimmer a little brighter against the deep blue of the sky. The

over their flocks. Shepherds were often overlooked by

and salvation to a broken

air was cool, and the small town nestled under a peaceful blanket

society and considered the least important, but God chose

world. He is the reason for

of silence. But on this night, something extraordinary was about to

them to receive the first news of His Son’s birth. Suddenly,

the season, the reason we

happen—something that would change the world forever.

the quiet of the night was broken by a radiant light, and an

celebrate with joy in our

angel appeared before them.

hearts.

“Do not be afraid,” the angel said, “I bring you good news

Far beyond the humble town, in the eastern

The wise men, known as the Magi, knew that

that will cause great joy for all the people. Today, in the

lands, wise men gazed at the heavens. They

this was not just any star. It was a sign of a

town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is the

were scholars, men who studied the stars and

prophecy long foretold: the birth of a King.

Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a

the mysteries of the universe. But this night,

A King who would bring hope, peace, and

baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

they saw something unlike anything they had

salvation to a world in need. Without hesitation,

ever seen before—a star, larger and brighter

they packed their gifts—gold, frankincense, and

than any other, shimmering with a light that

myrrh—and began their long journey to follow

seemed to speak of great things to come.

the star.

H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

Before the shepherds could even respond, the sky filled with a multitude of angels, singing, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.”

Hidden Ta lents Ma ga zine 2024

45

CALLING ALL ARTISTS !

Thank You All As we bring this issue of Hidden Talents to a close, I want to take a moment to thank you and to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared together through these pages. From the breathtaking beauty of nature’s artistry beneath winter waves to the vibrant expressions of contemporary and historical art, this edition has been a celebration of creativity in all its forms.

We had the privilege of delving into the minds of masterful artists like Peter Wood, along with a special interview with ,Gallery owner Mike Goldmark and exploring the innovative worlds of chef Dean and ceramists Madeleine Garciav Munzer who push the boundaries of their craft. Through stories of resilience, like Sairah Din empowering journey with MS, to festive narratives that spark joy and nostalgia, our contributors have captured the spirit of art as a universal language—one that connects us beyond borders, even weaving together English and German pieces in this issue.

As the holiday season approaches, I hope the stories and artworks featured here bring you inspiration, warmth, and a fresh perspective on the hidden talents around us. Thank you for joining us on this artistic voyage. We look forward to exploring more untold stories and extraordinary talents with you in the coming year.

Until next year, keep discovering, keep creating, and keep celebrating the beauty of art in every corner of life.

Have a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year

Warmest wishes,

Hidden Talents International Magazine invites you to showcase your creativity at our Art & Craft Exhibition 2025!

Date: Coming 2025 Location in: Digbeth Arts Quarter, Birmingham, UK We are looking for talented artists across all disciplines painters, sculptors, photographers, crafters, and more.. to exhibit their work at this exciting event.

Want to be a part of this incredible showcase?

Register your interest by sending us samples of your work or a link to your website at: Envelope Submissions@thearchesproject.org

Deadline for Registration: Friday, 21st March 2025 Start preparing your masterpieces and join us in celebrating the vibrant art scene of Birmingham!

From Evette Edmeade & all our Team of volunteers at Hidden Talents Art Magazine

Register Today Let Your Talent Shine !

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H i d d e n Tal e nt s M ag az i ne 2024

Designed and Published by The Arches Project Ltd Publishing Director Evette Edmeade Advertising : advertising@thearchesproject.org Editorial : Submissions@thearchesproject.org Web : www.thearchesproject.org Tel : +44121772 0852 Facebook : www.facebook.com/TheArchesProject Instagram:@thearchesproject The Arches Project Ltd Adderley Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B9 4EE

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