Hidden Talents - International Art Magazine

Autumn 2023 |. £4.00

International Art Magazine.

Designed and Published by The Arches Project Ltd Publishing Director Evette Edmeade Advertising : @thearchesproject.org Editorial : Submissions@thearchesproject.org Web : www.thearchesproject.org Tel +44 121 772 0852 Facebook : www.facebook.com/TheArchesProject Instagram : @thearchesproject The Arches Project Ltd

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Hidden Talents magazine

Welcome to the autumn issue of

perspectives in our upcoming December issue.

Hidden Talents quarterly art magazine!

As the warmth of summer gradually

As we step into the enchanting world of autumn, may this

gives way to the crisp embrace of autumn, we

magazine be your trusted companion, igniting your creativity

extend our heartfelt wishes to each and every

and warming your soul. Have a splendid autumn season,

one of you for a splendid season ahead. It's a time

filled with art, inspiration, and the joy of sharing stories.

for change, transformation, and new beginnings, Best wishes Evette Edmeade

In this issue, we invite you to embark on a journey with us, where talented individuals from diverse corners of the globe have taken the courageous leap from thriving careers in IT and engineering to immerse themselves in the world of fine art. Their stories are a testament to the indomitable spirit of human creativity and the pursuit of one's passions.

You'll find the inspiring narratives of artists who left their homelands to seek new horizons, each brushstroke and canvas echoing the resilience and determination that define their artistic pursuits. These real-life stories showcase the profound power of art to transcend boundaries and connect us on a universal level.

But this issue isn't just about the artists; it's also about embracing the comforts of autumn.

Inside, you'll discover tips for crafting your very own soul-warming soups, perfect for those cozy nights as the leaves fall and the air turns crisper.

We hope you'll relish every page of this

CALLING ALL ARTISTS, SCULPTORS, CERAMISTS, AND CRAFTERS! Are you passionate about your craft and eager to share your talent with the world?

Look no further!

Hidden Talent Magazine is on the hunt for extraordinary artists like you to showcase in our upcoming issues and connect with a global audience.

magazine, drawing inspiration from the incredible journeys of our featured artists and finding solace in the art of culinary creation.

Email your interest to: Submissions@thearchesproject.org

And remember, we eagerly await the opportunity to read your own stories and

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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Table of Contents

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Robert Talbot Painting from Observation

Piero Dell Francesca that appeals to me. I don’t think I’ve quite managed to incorporate these colours into my paintings yet, but I’m working on it. There are many approaches to the arrangement of space in still life—for example, the shallow shelves used by Chardin, or the tipped-up tabletops of Cezanne. For now, I’ve found that an elevated viewpoint where I can arrange elements in depth seems to work.

Turps and oils, Oil on linen

I paint still life because I find it to be a rich and expressive genre. To me, still life is about fundamental aspects of experience such as touch, weight, texture, and space. In my work, I am trying to achieve a kind of resonant stillness.

I’ve experimented a lot with light. There used to be stronger contrasts in my painting, but where I am now, with a gentler light source, seems to work for me. There is something about the colours of the early Renaissance artists such as

It can take me a long time to arrive at a composition that I feel is worth painting. I find that loose sketches that are more expressive than analytical are the most use in developing compositions. These preparatory sketches are valuable as a reference point later to remind me of the essence of why I started something.

Blue table, Oil on linen

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Red bottle, Oil on linen

For me the point of painting from observation is to represent the subject truthfully, to reveal what made the artist want to paint the subject in the first place. I used to think that the way to do this was by using analytical techniques, such as measurement, to exclude subjectivity and preconception.

However, I found that this only took me part of the way. When it comes to colour and tone, it seems to be about my mental image of the subject and to make decisions based on that. I realised that to paint what I observed with some intensity I had to think about constructing the subject on the canvas rather than representing it. As Uglow put it "I want the brain to

intervene between the observation and the mark." To arrive at the essence of the subject can involve removing details or changing tones and colours. One can never be sure

of what addition or removal or change of colour or tone will bring the subject to life on the canvas, you just experiment until you feel that you’ve got there.

Orange vase, Oil on canvas

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robtalbot89@gmail.com

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Sarah Ashby

Finding joy in the discovery of contemporary art Can I start with a question?

When is the appropriate time to break away from a parent’s guidance? I was always very fortunate in that my father was a superb (if amateur) artist, and gave me a marvellous grounding in basic techniques, stressing the importance of accuracy. It was how he had been taught, albeit many years ago, and how he saw the world at the end of his paintbrush.

Circumstances were such, that I could not go into further education, so consequently, I suppose I would be classed as ‘self-taught’. That always strikes me as a bit of a misnomer.

Unless you are completely withdrawn and secluded, you are inevitably influenced by those around you, taking little

Zeus

sips from other artists or creators; yes, my path is my own, but I have had help finding the way.

As I grew older, I wanted to experience more: finding joy in the discovery of contemporary art, abstraction and most important of all, glorious colour.

But this was often swiftly

followed by the retreat into the warm safety blanket of detailed pen drawings. I knew myself here and was always confident and comfortable with the result. Little by little, these experimental forays increased, and I pulled away from the rigid tramlines of my artistic youth, exploring, often without direction or destination in mind,

Iris Hidden Talents magazine

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Dionysus Earrings

but always with a fascination to learn something new, even if it meant failure and disappointment.

Insecurity is the constant companion of the average artist and is not easily mastered. Still, with time and patience, I have accepted that I am painting for myself, and not the appreciation of others.

It sounds a little cold and arrogant, but this is the

protective shield that permits me to create the way I I want, and not surround myself in a place of self-doubt and indecision. If only I had had this epiphany when I was 20 but confidence is a demanding g taskmaster and can be sneakily evasive when required most.

If you happen to see my work these days, regardless of the style or technique; canvas, paint, and more recently,

jewellery, the common thread that will run through my work, is the use of vivid colour. It is my inspiration, my genuine love, and a true part of who I am as an artist.

It is where my mind lives, and where it is happiest, and that, to me, is the most important lesson of all.

Prometheus IV Earrings Hidden Talents magazine

Picturesque.warwick@gmail.com

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Hannah Vickery

Abstract Landscape Artist I am an artist working primarily in acrylic and mixed media. I create abstract paintings which develop through an organic and exploratory process. My work is informed by both the physical and inner landscape, and I am fascinated by communicating spiritual ideas and concepts through painting.

Born and brought up in Coventry I was very much a Midlands girl, and many Saturdays were spent in Birmingham city centre visiting

by train. My loves were always reading and art, and I followed A levels Art with an Art Foundation at Coventry Polytechnic and then BA Graphic Design at Liverpool Polytechnic. Following a career in Graphic design I began to miss the hands-on nature of art making. A career break at home with my daughter gave me the time to start something new and I began to experiment with acrylic paint in 2018, a medium I had never used before. Feeling like an absolute beginner I began by initially creating small backgrounds for

my own graphics. A one-day course Acrylics followed by an online course helped me to progress and, having run out of space in the house, I moved into a garden studio in 2020 which enabled me to paint larger and freer.

Influenced by a wide range of physical places and personal experiences, my paintings communicate a sense of mystery, of journeying to lands unknown and undiscovered.

Strongly influenced by the natural world, and with frequent references to both

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words alone. I love the lack of constraint and freedom my process offers and am always open to using new techniques, approaches, and media in my art.

Ascent

poetry, literature and biblical text, my work is process-driven, developed through the addition and subtraction of multiple layers, addition, and subtraction. As such, my work is both All the tides of thre world

I have made my home in West Oxford for the last 16 years where I live with my Husband and daughter.

As a member of Oxford Art Society, I exhibit regularly, and I also open my studio each year with Oxfordshire Artweeks.

Night

experimental and exploratory; each painting is an unmapped journey. Working intuitively, I build up my work in layers in a range of media including collage, limestone powder and ash, to create a sense of depth and interest. I aim to communicate something of awe and wonder to the viewer and to express ideas I cannot in Hidden Talents magazine

Testify

enquiry@hannahvickeryart.com

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Jacob Chandler

First Disabled Artist to exhibit a public Sculpture featuring a disability

Jacob Chandler has continued to thrive in the art world, becoming the first disabled artist to exhibit a public sculpture featuring disability.

The stainless steel piece can be seen on the Eastern Plaza of Birmingham New Street station.

It features Ben Pearson, a bladed athlete that Jacob had the privilege to work with to inform his piece. Produced in alignment with Birmingham Festival 2022 and the Commonwealth Games, this

this piece celebrates that the event had the largest integrated para-sports programme in the history of the games.

Chandler said "I am truly in awe of these athletes who battle physical disabilities and their emotional impact

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to excel, against the odds in the world of sport.

Seeing their strength empowered me to publicly recognize my hidden disability.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome EDS and colitis. I am now an ambassador for EDS which is a generic condition, which has an impact throughout the body, leading to anything from chronic fatigue and allergies to joints that subluxated and dislocated without provocation.” A bronze version of this piece can be seen in The Colly Ison Gallery in Birmingham.

This summer has seen his work exhibited alongside the monumental sculptures of Salvador Dali in Shrewsbury Shropshire. Gaining

media Coverage from the BBC and the Guardian.

Chandler is currently working on a piece for the new Midland Metropolitan University hospital to thank the medics and hospital staff for their amazing work throughout the pandemic and beyond. The sculpture is a very important piece for Jacob as the Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust performed life saving surgery on his father's heart.

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New bronzes have also been added to Chandler’s portfolio, Poise and Valor, Poise and Velocity and Poise and Impetus.

Jacob is currently working on relief pieces that were inspired by the book "Flatland" by Edwin Abbott. These pieces lend themselves to being wall and some can be seen in the Soden collection in Shrewsbury England.

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Marcelo Rocha

Embracing new opportunities I’ve worked most of my life with IT. I am an MBA in Strategic Technology Management and I have several certifications in the area, but since I started painting as a hobby, it has taken such a large proportion in my life to the point that I decided to leave a great job and salary to dedicate myself to fine arts.

In Brazil where I was born I studied oil painting and drawing at Pleinair Studios, one of the best-known art schools in Brazil. I even moved to another country because of

this passion, I left Brazil and moved to New York to study at The Art Students League of New York, perhaps the oldest and most traditional art school in the USA. Names such as Norman Rockwell, Jackson Pollock, and

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Mark Rothko among others passed through there. I enrolled in a 4-year Certification Program with a workload of approximately 28 hours per week. My main subject was painting and my secondary subject was drawing.

The school is very close to Central Park so on the days when I had drawing class in the afternoon, I went to Central Park to have my lunch before starting drawing class. I also frequented Central Park a lot to do Plein air paintings. Plein air is a French word that means “outdoors” and what it means when we do a painting outdoors, using the landscape itself as a reference. I love doing it in New York. I did numerous paintings in Central Park, I painted “Le Carrousel” in Bryant Park, and I painted the Lions in the New York Public Library among many other references in the city, but for Plein Air painting Central Park has always been my favourite place.

painting, always curious to understand what technique I'm using, always asking “Is it oil or acrylic?” and always praising us and motivating us to keep painting. In the box I used to paint I always left my name highlighted on Instagram and whenever I got home after painting on the street I received pictures that people took of me while I was painting.

Today I am a full-time oil painter and my main subjects are Pets. I have painted over 200 commissions which are mainly in the US, UK, Australia and Canada but also in Japan, Switzerland, Brazil, Mexico, Poland and Holland. Despite having been quite successful working in IT, my professional life wasn't necessarily planned, working in IT started by chance.

However, the decision to leave to become a painter was a planned one and a very important decision I made that I couldn't be happier with.

It's also important to point out how friendly people in New York City are when I'm Hidden Talents magazine

marcelorocha.art@gmail.com

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Vanessa Wendland

Inspired by nature and rediscovered her passion for abstract painting

Vanni, formally known as Vanessa Wendland is a self-taught abstract artist born in Berlin, Germany, currently living in Mallorca, Spain.

Encouraged by her Mother she has been painting and tinkering since her early childhood and was inspired by nature even then. After a long break, during which she tried out various professional ideas, including a bachelor's degree in equine science, she rediscovered her passion for abstract painting seven years ago. From then on, she devoted every free minute to her love for visual art, experimenting with different techniques and gradually teaching herself her artistic skills.

Since 2021 Vanni is represented

by Greenhouse Interiors in Australia. In addition, her work is currently available at some

selected Australian retailers such as Norsu Interiors. Vanni accepts commissions, enjoys collaborating with interior designers and her works exist in private collections around the globe.

uplifting things from everyday life, which I then subconsciously incorporate into my abstract paintings. I am particularly inspired by various shapes and colours from nature, light and shadow, as well as childhood memories, photography, fashion and interior design.

"I love to collect moments that bring me joy as well as beautiful

When I collect ideas and determine themes for a new body of work, I don't want to

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limit myself too much in the process, but rather see this as a starting point for something new. Everything is allowed and I let my ideas run free so that the artworks can develop in a natural unforced way.

I always put on some good mood music, instinctively pick a few acrylic colours that appeal to me the most, and just go for it. Especially in the beginning, I try to work quickly and turn off my head. I make loose, intuitive abstract brushstrokes and experiment with different shapes and colour combinations. The more the work progresses, the more I allow myself to reconsider decisions and direct the colours more thoughtfully. The

technique. Through my online shop, I hope to share my love for oil painting with others and continue to grow as a full-time artist. As Pablo Picasso once said,

"Every artist was first an amateur," and I am excited to see where this journey takes me.

fun of the creative process plays an important role for me, in the hope that this will later be transferred to the viewer. I often experience the act of painting as a puzzle, gradually trying to fill in the different areas of the canvas.

The finished work may consist of a few or many opaque alternating translucent layers.

It features soft colours combined with bright accents, imperfect shapes and bold compositions.

I strive for my work to have a calming, yet uplifting and joyful aura, while embracing imperfection and hoping it gives the viewer a sense of happiness and well-being."

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mail@vanniart.com

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Marielle Simzer

Be like a wild flower- passionate and unforgettable I live just outside of Athens, Ontario, Canada bordering beautiful Charleston Lake. I am very fortunate to work from my home studio/gallery where I am surrounded by the beauty of our natural landscape. It’s such an inspiring place to live.

I am primarily a self-taught artist who has spent a lifetime loving and exploring art. Every moment I spend outside in my garden, in the woods, or on the water inspires me to create.

While predominantly an oil and palette knife artist with an impressionist style – the art I create is about combining all

the layers of my life into something visceral, sometimes messy, and unique.

My creative atelier often tests the boundaries of a traditional style of painting, always with depth and boldness and heavy textures.

Earthy greens, vivid reds, sunshine yellow, deep blues, and unexpected little swoops of colour are the heart and soul of my paintings.

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This past year has been an exciting period of growth for me artistically – from the building of my social media and my new website – to my first solo gallery show “The Floral and the Feminine” where I explored the sensual and poetic nature of flowers. In January I experienced the beauty of artistic collaboration when a New York City based composer & pianist, Margin Alexander choose one of my paintings and presented it with an original composition inspired by my painting at his concert.

In this next year I look forward to travelling back to Europe where I’ve been accepted into an artist in residence program.

Wandering the world and experiencing art firsthand is what fuels my creativity! Being seen, connecting through my art is the joy and privilege of being an

that will run through my work, is the use of vivid colour. It is my inspiration, my genuine love, and a true part of who I am as an artist.

It is where my mind lives, and where it is happiest, and that, to me, is the most important lesson of all.

artist! My art evolution is a journey and hopefully, it creates a connection with you!

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Be like a wild flower – passionate and unforgettable! ~ Marielle

blueskyegallery@gmail.com

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Renjitha Anoop Floral artist & art instructor

Renjitha Anoop is a floral painting artist based in Canada, whose vibrant and expressive artwork captures the beauty and energy of nature. With a passion for colour and texture, she creates stunning paintings that celebrate the natural worlinspirespires wonder and joy.

Renjitha Anoop began her professional journey as an engineer, but over time she discovered a passion for art that she never knew she had.

She started exploring different forms of art in her free time

and soon realized that creating art was not only a hobby but something she wanted to pursue as a career. Over the years, she has developed a unique style that blends bold brushstrokes with intricate details, creating a dynamic and harmonious visual experience.

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In her paintings, Renjitha Anoop seeks to explore the interplay of light, colour, and form, and to evoke the emotions and sensations that flowers and nature can inspire. As Renjitha Anoop's repertoire flourished, she found solace in the realization that art could transcend mere aesthetics. Flowers, for her, serve as a poignant symbol of life's impermanence, urging the viewer to cherish the fleeting beauty that surrounds us. Each painting becomes a window into the artist's soul, a reflection of the intricacies of life's journey and is a celebration of life and beauty, and a reflection of her deep connection to the natural world.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Renjitha Anoop is also committed to teaching, mentoring and sharing her painting techniques with her online followers across the world. She believes in the power of art to bring people together and enrich their lives and is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with others.

Whether you're seeking to add a touch of colour and beauty to your home or office, or looking for art lessons, Renjitha Anoop's floral paintings are sure to captivate and delight. Explore her portfolio and experience the wonder and joy of nature through her art.

https://www.instagram.com/onestrokeart16_ren jithaanoop/

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Kinga Szumska

Creativity has been a big part for me I am a writer and self-taught abstract artist. I was born in Poland and moved to the UK in 2006. I loved living in London and appreciate the space this city gives to creative souls. This was the place where I started believing in myself and my creative powers.

Creativity has always been a big part of me and one day, I decided to use it beyond my corporate career and respond to the calling inside me. I have self-published two books and painted abstract art.

I am a feminist at heart, and I also want to express this through my art and books. This is why my second book – The Sacred Mountains, was dedicated to the female intuition and the power of responding to the calling, or how I expressed it in my book – to your mountain.

I trust our feminine powers are waking up in present times. Both my recent book and my art express these views. I write for women, I paint for women and for the world to immerse itself in the feminine side of the world. I trust when we balance the masculine world with the feminine side, the world will come to a place of peace and happiness. A world of balance.

Throughout my creative life, I wanted to make space for more women in art, more women in books more women in the heroine

role, and more women with their powers and wisdom. In the Sacred Hidden Talents magazine

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Mountains book, I wanted to also bring the picture of wisdom that resides with our female intuition.

The book also describes the journey of following your calling of a creative soul.

My art is focused on bringing the feminine side to our home, our interiors, and our space, to men and women. I hope my art will serve the world by bringing more good energy into its space.

https://www.instagram.com/feminineabstractart/

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Brian Trudeau Callie Allison

Creating weird and wonderful things in wood and stained glass I started Men-an-Tol about 7 years ago. I’d been creating weird and wonderful things in wood for over 20 years as a hobby, but one day I saw a picture on the internet where someone had added glass to a piece of wood and it was a Eureka moment for me. I had no idea if there would be a market for what I envisaged, or what I should charge, as I d never seen anything like it before.

I’d never done any stained glass work before, but knew I had the necessary hand skills, so enrolled on a course immediately. I decided to use figured hardwoods to house my stained glass panes, and where applicable, mount them on a steel

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base suitable for securing in place. My mother was a well known artist and though I’ve painted as well, nothing’s ever felt so fulfilling as producing these pieces.

The response was overwhelmingly positive. The photos seem to have a very immediate impact which has helped enormously.

I originally planned to sell them through Galleries and Studios in Cornwall and Devon, but the demand online has meant we haven’t needed to.

We sell almost exclusively through our website: http://www.menantolwoodandglasssculptures.co m/ and our Facebook page, which is often the more up to date of the two. https://www.facebook.com/547099182146392/posts /1828337587355872/ When we can catch up, we enjoy producing pieces and advertising them on there, but we’re lucky that, such has been the demand in recent years, that most of our time is spent working on commissions.

Sadly, thus far I only sell within the UK although there has been plenty of demand for them abroad, but I can’t get insurance for the glass…

Three years ago I met my Fiancée Callie, and we now work together, she now helps me create our sculptures. She’s also a qualified NLP, EFT and TFT Therapist. We met through a website online for people suffering from ME/CFS, and it’s wonderful to have someone who understands the limitations that imposes on working.

Obviously, this has created huge problems for working with heavy materials , such as hardwood, steel, glass and lead, and we ve had to be very creative to find alternative ways of working.

Sadly, we can only work for a few hours a day, and, speaking for myself, I’m certainly not getting any younger, but as someone once said “If you can do what you love, it’s not work” and that’s how it feels to us, and I’ll continue producing these sculptures, for as long as I’m able to…

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Lucia Pec

My focus slowly drifted from litter art to land art My name is Lucia Pec, I was born in 1973 in Germany. My whole life I felt a very deep love for nature and creativity. During my childhood nature was my home and my playground, a place that gave me comfort and endless joy. In my twenties, I travelled around the world to see and feel the beauty of nature in Europe, Northern America and Australia.

I studied biology to try to understand the magic of life and hope to help make this world a better place for all beings. In 2005 I moved to the Bohemian forest mountains in the Czech Republic and became a mindful nature guide for adults and school classes.

While I was offering others a possibility to deepen or rediscover

their connection with nature and themselves, I began my journey of a creative connection between me

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and nature. Most winters I spend at the Costa Vicentina in southwest Portugal and it was there that I first began to create little impermanent artworks with plastic litter, that I would find on the beaches. Within a few years, my focus slowly drifted from litter art to land art, also called earth art, ephemeral creations made from found natural materials in nature. Creating in nature also means to create with the elements, the wind, the sun, the ground, just everything and to recreate and emphasize the beauty and impermanence of all that exists and permanently changes.

When I create, I am embedded in the never-ending natural cycles of nature and with that magic flow I create. Mostly I create intuitively, without planning what and where.

Mother nature’s blessings and offers are my inspirations to create.

I feel the deep everlasting connection of everything in this

universe to the fullest when I create. I can grasp the magic, that flows through everything, I feel held and safe, full of peace, trust and gratitude. I have shared my art on Facebook and Instagram for many years and it is wonderful to experience, how my creations speak a natural universal language that can touch and open the hearts of others.

This year I publish a card set with 44 of my creations in Germany, together with a booklet with texts and exercises in nature. I dream of finding a publisher in the English language, so that I may share my light with many more people around the world.

Email: lucia.pec@gmx.de Instagram: @my.creative.nature

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Lizzie Jayne Author 'A Glimpse of Heaven'

A Glimpse of Heaven The three friends made their way over pastures green and finally came to a stop.

Everywhere fell silent and felt so peaceful. The little white flowers looked pretty as they danced about in the gentle summer breeze. A scent of delicious lavender filled the air. Slowly, they looked up at a big wooden door. It was huge and it seemed to go on forever.

“Are you sure this is the right door to heaven?” asked the little cat. “It looks a little shabby and not how I imagined it to be.”

this,” whispered the little girl. “It really is more beautiful than even we could imagine. And you were right, little cat, I won’t need my scarf!”

“Can we go in?” asked the cat.

The little girl gently closed the door again and turned to her friends.

“One day, little ones, but not just yet.”

“But why?” wailed Puddles.

“Well, if you go inside now, you won’t want to come out again,”

said the little girl. “It’s just so beautiful. We still have much work to do to help others find their hearts, so they can find their way here as well. Come on, I’ll tell you all about what I saw on the way home.”

The three friends turned to go feeling sad to leave, yet their hearts were full to bursting, knowing one day they would return and stay forever…

Will you be there too?

Original Art & Short Story - Art

by Lizzie Jayne & Books by Lizzie Jayne

“I think so,” said the little girl.

Hesitantly, she pulled ajar the big, heavy door and suddenly a blinding light burst through the gap.

The little girl took a peek. “Oh MY!” she gasped.

“Let me see!” said Benjamin Puddles, jumping around excitedly. But the little girl didn’t reply. “What’s it like little girl?” asked the duck, desperate to see what was on the other side.

“Little girl, are you listening?”

But, the little girl wasn’t listening.

She was silenced by the awe that met her eyes.

“I’ve never seen anything like

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Alan Porter The journey of now

The Way It Became to The Journey of Now, My Art and What's the It Presented by Alan Porter Art for me began in my early school days in Coventry. I was a good representative of drawings mainly and painting, though I struggled sometimes with subject matters and ideas for pictures I made with some paint mediums. The paint was mainly, basic poster paint tubs, them days in the 1980s and was still quite fun to do. I did have, my first watercolour paint set from my teacher. I also bought a nice brush and went painting.

As I progressed and did more artwork through the year I was still maintaining my skills mainly drawings and imagination.

Painting I could do at school but until much later was recognizably better in skill like that in intermediate/advanced.

Due to going on courses and gaining skills, reading books and getting tart tips One of which I gained a GCSE in Art Design at a college near the Mind flat I was living in as a rehabilitation type process for an illness to do with schizophrenia. The work at college involved a grid to enlarge a drawing or painting

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and keep it in scale using the boxes technique. It was not really, how I liked to work. I like free-handwork. You can express yourself better and more freely and not cramped in and tight feeling, with a grid.

Therefore, I went on to do Adult Education courses in Coventry and they were beneficial and affordable. It made me better in health and soon to live independently in a housing association flat, which I’ve come to know for the past 15 years.

Besides the past fallbacks due

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to my health, I still was able to do some artwork, whether for college or other courses workshops, and leisure. Visiting the odd Gallery and getting useful information. It we’re therapy wise a good thing to keep my mind active.

My works became larger and progressed with my painting skills, though the looseness of watercolour painting was more of a challenge.

Now much of my framed artwork works stored in a storage unit. I have too much of it to store at home. Anyway, I still do the odd course or workshop day and even in Birmingham at the Midland Arts Centre. The best representatives of work are framed, mainly acrylic paintings and some watercolours and the odd Oil. The Arches Project

came to know some 10 years ago is still a good place to show art works. Hidden Talents I have exhibited in the past and a few other exhibitions even showed my wood carvings in the venue.

I like to think my style is best described as Abstract Impressionism. Combining them both is I’d say a reasonable way of seeing my art. Perhaps not at the high end but can reassure. You can see from the photos two canvas works of landscapes. Both were painted from photos I’d taken while on holiday. On separate occasions. One has a blue sky with white puffs of cloud which is the part I like the most. The landscape was a good subject to do and you get a feeling of distance. A little sketchy and that’s how my work looks.

Perhaps not as fine as it could be as, artists!

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The other canvas of an island was also a little, sketchier in appearance! It still looked kind of nice and was closer to the viewer. The third picture is a landscape in watercolour from a photo of Jefferson Gardens in Leamington Spa. I took a fair few photos, back to the studio flat, around the area of the gardens that day. This painting has bluey green colours and it was a more recent depiction. People can be seen though small. I painted it while on a course a few years after taking the photos. I’d like to continue with my paintings of Jefferson Gardens from photos. Now I’m 54 painting more in my flat and motivating myself to get the brush out in the studio, is most likely a better option.

Alan@portadd@gmail.com

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Alicia Jopek

From engineering to art Since I was a child, I've always dreamed about art. I would spend hours lost in my own world, creating masterpieces in my mind. Even then, I knew that I wanted to pursue art in some way. And now, after years of hard work, I've finally made that dream a reality.

I studied Automatic control and Robotics in college. In 2019, I defended my master thesis, obtaining a Master Science Degree in Aircraft Designing. Even though it was a great experience, I always felt like something was missing. I missed the creativity and freedom that comes with art. So, after

working in my profession for a few years, I decided to take some time to travel and explore the world of art. I visited galleries, museums, and art festivals, and I quickly realized that this was the world I belonged in.

I painted my first oil painting in April 2022, and from that moment on, I knew

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share some commonalities. Both require creativity, imagination, and attention to detail.

Both also involve finding ways to solve problems and create something new.

I have discovered a deep passion for capturing the beauty of the world through my paintings. I am still on the path of improvement,

constantly striving to refine my style and technique. Through my online shop, I hope to share my love for oil painting with others and continue to grow as a full-time artist. As Pablo Picasso once said, "Every artist was first an amateur," and I am excited to see where this journey takes me

that this was something I wanted to pursue wholeheartedly. There is something magical about oil paintings that captivates me. The vibrant colors, the texture of the paint on the canvas, and the way light plays with the brush strokes create a sense of depth and emotion that is truly mesmerizing. I love the versatility of oil paints, as they can be manipulated in so many different ways to achieve different effects and moods.

In September 2022, I took a bold step and decided to open an online shop on Etsy.com called Victowizor Studio. This allowed me to not only share my artwork with a wider audience but also gave me the motivation and drive to improve my skills as an artist.

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The Significance of the Colour Wheel A Palette of Possibilities In the realm of art, design, and aesthetics, the colour wheel stands as an essential tool that guides creativity and enhances visual harmony. Its significance goes far beyond being a mere tool; it's a fundamental concept that empowers artists, designers, and anyone with an eye for colour to make informed decisions that captivate and communicate effectively.

At its core, the colour wheel is a visual representation of the relationships between colours.

Comprising primary, secondary, and tertiary colours, the wheel provides a structured framework for understanding how colours interact, blend, and contrast. This knowledge is invaluable when creating compositions that evoke emotions, set moods, or convey messages.

The primary function of the colour wheel is to aid in colour harmony. By understanding the different colour schemes it offers—monochromatic, complementary, analogous, and more—one can strategically choose colours that work harmoniously together. This harmony isn't

limited to the world of art; it extends to graphic design, interior decorating, fashion, and even digital interfaces. Whether it's a soothing and serene atmosphere or a bold and energetic statement, the colour wheel guides the choices that shape our sensory experiences.

Moreover, the colour wheel encourages experimentation and innovation. It fosters a deeper understanding of colour theory, enabling artists to break the rules intentionally and create unique visual effects. Through the interplay of warm and cool tones, contrasting hues, and gradients, artists can convey depth, movement, and narrative in their creations.

In the context of education, the colour wheel is a foundational tool for teaching basic colour theory. It aids students in grasping abstract concepts like colour temperature, chromatic intensity, and the effects of colour juxtaposition. By encouraging hands-on exploration of the colour wheel, educators nurture a creative mindset and equip the next generation of artists and designers with a versatile tool

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that transcends artistic mediums.

In today's digital age, where screens emit a dazzling array of colours, the colour wheel remains as relevant as ever.

Designing for digital platforms demands an understanding of colour calibration, ensuring that designs appear consistent across various devices. The colour wheel serves as a reference point, allowing designers to make informed choices that transcend screens and paper.

In conclusion, the colour wheel is more than just a visual aid; it's a guiding principle that empowers creativity and enriches the way we perceive the world. Whether creating a canvas masterpiece, designing a user interface, or redecorating a living space, the colour wheel equips us with the knowledge to harness the power of colour to its fullest potential. Its importance lies not only in its practical applications but also in its ability to spark inspiration and elevate the human experience through the language of colour.

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Creamy Spiced Pumpkin Soup for Cozy Autumn Nights Instructions: • Roast the Pumpkin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cubed pumpkin on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss to coat evenly and spread the pumpkin in a single layer. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.

• Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the carrots are slightly softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

As the days grow shorter and the nights turn colder, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of creamy spiced pumpkin soup. This recipe brings together the earthy flavors of roasted pumpkin, aromatic spices, and rich creaminess to create the perfect dish for those dark and chilly autumn evenings.

Ingredients: • 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 4-5 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed • 1 large onion, chopped • 3 cloves of garlic, minced • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option) • Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Blend the Soup Base: Add the roasted pumpkin cubes to the pot, along with the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Stir to coat the pumpkin and aromatics with the spices. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

• Puree the Soup: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches), carefully puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, return the pureed soup to the pot.

• Add Creaminess: Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk, depending on your preference, and stir until well incorporated.

Allow the soup to heat through over low-medium heat, but do not let it boil.

• Serve and Garnish: Ladle the creamy spiced pumpkin soup into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Conclusion: This creamy spiced pumpkin soup is the epitome of comfort during the dark and cold autumn nights. Its velvety texture and harmonious blend of flavors will warm both your body and soul. Enjoy this delightful recipe as you cozy up by the fire, savoring the essence of the season.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste.

Creamy Potato and Leek Soup Ingredients: • 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 4-5 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed • 1 large onion, chopped • 3 cloves of garlic, minced • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option) • Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish) Instructions: • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and leeks. Cook until they are softened but not browned, about 5-7 minutes.

• Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

• Use an immersion blender to carefully puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.

• If using heavy cream, add it to the soup and stir well. If using milk, you can add it too. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.

• Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped chives or parsley.

Enjoy your delicious homemade creamy potato and leek soup!

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Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

Instructions:

• 4 cups cubed stale bread (such as French bread) • 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced • 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries • 3 eggs • 2 cups milk • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg • A pinch of salt • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

• In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, diced apples, and raisins or dried cranberries.

• In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

• Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture, making sure all the bread is soaked. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it's evenly moistened.

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• Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the pudding.

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.

• Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

• You can serve the pudding warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Enjoy your delicious autumn-inspired Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding!

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David Irish

Two men walking

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Exploring the Elements of Art Building Blocks of Visual Expression Art is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks directly to our emotions and senses. Behind the beauty and intrigue of every piece of artwork lies a careful interplay of elements that come together to create a harmonious visual experience.

In this article, we delve into the seven fundamental elements of art: line, shape, form, color, texture, space, and value. By understanding these building blocks, we can better appreciate the complexities of artistic expression.

• Line: Thve humble line is the foundation upon which artistic compositions are built. Lines can be straivght or curved, bold or delicate, and they guide our eyes across the canvas. They define shapes, create patterns, and even convey emotions. A jagged line may evoke tension, while a flowing line can impart a sense of calm.

• Shape: Shapes are the result of enclosed lines and are often the first things we recognize in an artwork. Geometric shapes like circles, squares, and triangles can lend a sense of stability, while organic shapes like those found in nature evoke a more fluid and dynamic feel.

Artists manipulate shapes to

concepts.

• Form: Adding a third dimension to shapes, form gives objects depth and volume. Artists use shading and perspective to make forms appear solid and lifelike. By understanding form, artists can create sculptures, paintings, and drawings that appear to leap off the canvas. v • Color: Perhaps one of the most powerful elements, color has the ability to evoke emotions, set moods, and convey meaning. The color wheel, a tool that organizes hues, helps artists create harmony, contrast, and balance in their compositions.

Warm colors like red and orange can stimulate energy, while cool colors like blue and green evoke a sense of tranquility.

• Texture: Texture refers to the surface quality of an object.

Artists use techniques to mimic different textures, such as the roughness of tree bark or the smoothness of glass. Texture adds tactile depth to visual art, making it more engaging and relatable to our senses.

• Space: Space refers to the area within and around objects in an artwork. Artists

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in an artwork. Artists manipulate space to create the illusion of depth and perspective. Positive space is occupied by objects, while negative space is the area around and between them. By controlling space, artists lead our eyes and create a sense of movement.

• Value: Value represents the range of lightness and darkness in an artwork. It's achieved through shading and highlights, giving objects form and volume. Value can create contrast, adding drama and focus to an artwork, and is essential for creating realistic and three-dimensional images.

Conclusion: The elements of art serve as the vocabulary through which artists communicate with their audience. By mastering these foundational principles of line, shape, form, color, texture, space, and value, artists can convey complex ideas, emotions, and stories. As we explore artworks, let's keep in mind the intricate interplay of these elements, appreciating how they come together to create the visual wonders that enrich our lives.

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Everything you have gotten through.

All the times you have pushed on even when you couldn't. All the times you wanted to give up but you got through another day. Never forget how

much strength you have learned and developed along the way.

Never forget how far you've come.

Everything you have gotten through.

All the times you have pushed on even when you couldn't. All the times you wanted to give up but you got through another day. Never forget how

much strength you have learned and developed along the way.

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