Hidden Talents International Art Magazine Winter 2024

Winter 2023 |. £4.00

International Art Magazine.

“When I was small,” said the little cat. “I was told that if I saw the big winter star, I was to make a wish upon it so all my hopes and dreams would come true.

Lizzie Jayne

Featuring in this issue : Zara Muse - The artistic persona of Alex Johnson Christine Doisy - Self-taught Animal portraitist Watercolour artist Graham Munt Dawn Booth- wild card artist in Sky Arts Landscape artist of the year and much more inside...

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 : +44 121 772 0852 Facebook : www.facebook.com/TheArchesProject Instagram : @thearchesproject The Arches Project Ltd

To all our supporters thank you

Adderley Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B9 4EE Hidden Talents magazine

The Winter Star Lizzie Jayne (The Heart Gang)

“When I was small,” said the little cat. “I was told that if I saw the big winter star, I was to make a wish upon it so all my hopes and dreams would come true. The strange thing is though, it never seems to work. Why is that Puddles?”

“Oh, that’s easy to answer,” replied the wise duck. “You need to reach beyond the star and talk to the one who created it!”

Original art & Short Story - Lizzie Jayne (The Heart Gang) Hidden Talents magazine

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Table of Contents Lizzie Jayne - The Winter Star

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Front Cover

Zara Muse - The Artistic Persona of Alex Johnson

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6-7

Christine Doisy - Self-Care Taught Animal Portraitist

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8-9

Philip Westcott - Landscape Artist

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10 -11

Graham Munt - Realistic Watercolour Artist

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12 - 13

IJWBAA - Exploring Identity Through Digital Art

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14 - 15

Normski - Sustainable Art Revolution

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16 -17

Micaela Summers - Landscape Artist

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18 - 19

Dawn Booth - Whimsical floral paintings that exude positivity and feel-good vibes

20 - 21

Alan Porter- Superhero to Sky Reflections

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22-23

Lily - Lily Village Beauty Story

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David Irish - On the Telephone

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Recipes - Vegetarian Wellington & Mince Pies

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26 - 27

Sarah Tomlinson - Ageing is about growth

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28- 29

Rodrigo Franzao - Versatile Artist Engaging in Mixed Media, Painting, and Video Art

30 - 31

DOYEN - Digital Artist and Photographer

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32 - 33

Frank Edmunds -Actor Sculpture & Musician

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34- 35

Rodrigo Franzao - Spirit of Nature

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36

Lizzie Jayne- Kindness Warms the Day

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37

Micaela Summers - Still

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38

David Irish - Couple

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Dear Readers,

this festive season fill your hearts with joy, your homes with warmth, and your spirits with the magic of Christmas. Here's to a Happy Christmas and a wondrous 2024, filled with endless possibilities and creative endeavors.

Welcome to Hidden Talents magazine our winter edition.

As we immerse ourselves in the enchanting spirit of December, our hearts resonate with the timeless narrative of the birth of Christ—a story that transcends generations, uniting us in the celebration of Christmas.

With gratitude, Evette. Edmeade

This issue of our art magazine is a testament to the profound impact of art in capturing the essence of this season. Through the strokes of creativity and the vivid expressions of our featured artists, we aim to transport you to the heart of the Christmas story, where the extraordinary meets the ordinary, and hope is born anew.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS, SCULPTORS, CERAMISTS, AND CRAFTERS!

A heartfelt thank you is extended to our dedicated team of volunteers, the unsung heroes behind the scenes. Your unwavering commitment has not only fueled the pages of this magazine but has also nurtured the hidden talents that flourish within our artistic community. Your contributions are the bedrock upon which our collective creativity thrives.

Look no further!

To the artists who have generously supported and donated their works, your generosity amplifies the resonance of our shared artistic journey. Your belief in the power of art to inspire and unite is a gift that keeps on giving.

As we approach the close of this remarkable year, we extend warm wishes to all our readers, contributors, and supporters. May

Are you passionate about your craft and eager to share your talent with the world?

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

Email your interest to: Submissions@thearchesproject.org

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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Zara Muse

The Artistic Persona of Alex Johnson Zara Muse, the artistic persona of Alex Johnson, has been captivated by the world of art since her earliest memories. Born into a family where creativity flows like a river, with cousin Ben Eine as a renowned street artist, Zara's artistic journey was destined from the start. Although life led her down different paths, her heart remained steadfastly dedicated to art."Zara Muse: The Resilient Artist Who Creates Vibrant and Optimistic Portrayals of the Female Form" Despite the challenges of raising three children on her own and caring for her ailing mother while navigating a successful career in London's financial district, Zara's love for art never wavered. She continued to attend still life classes, nurturing her keen eye for her true passion – the exquisite female form.

During the turbulent times of lockdown, when the world was cloaked in uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Zara Muse found solace in her art. With more time on her hands, she rekindled her passion for painting. Her response to the prevailing negativity was to transform isolated and pessimistic subjects into vibrant, uplifting, and optimistic portrayals of the female form.

Zara's recent exhibitions at Quantus Gallery in Shoreditch, Grove Gallery in Fitzrovia, and the Dorset in Shepherds Bush have garnered significant attention. Notably, these exhibitions saw the presence of numerous celebrities, adding to the allure of her work.

The list of attendees at her shows reads like a who's who of the entertainment world.

Alex Jones, Mischa Barton, Leah Wood, Lady Mary Charteris, Ellies Pennie, and Amber Wise were among those who graced her exhibitions. Zara's art resonates across a diverse spectrum of audiences, from famous names to those simply appreciative of her transformative creations.

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Leigh Francis, Stephen Webb, and Daniel Lustig have all recognized the distinctive blend of vitality and finesse in her work. Zara Muse's art transcends boundaries, attracting individuals from various spheres, including renowned dancer Katya Jones and the celebrated boxer Derrick Chisora.

Notable personalities such as Ollie Locke, Ella Thomas, Kelsie Parker, Chloe Lewis, and Linda Robson have also been captivated by Zara's inspiring and optimistic portrayals of the female form. In the heart of London's bustling art scene, Zara Muse has emerged as a symbol of hope and creativity, demonstrating that art has the power to inspire and uplift people from all walks of life.

Her journey, marked by dedication and resilience, serves as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity.

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Christine Doisy Self Taught Animal Portraitist

I am now 57 years old , I was born in Paris and I currently live in the south of France, in a small village , picturesque and colorful.

I have been drawing since I was a little girl.Later I started to paint in oil the portrait of the children of my friends and colleagues.

Then the course of my life made me abandon this passion for decades. 6 years ago I started again, at first with apprehension then everything became « easy » again. At that time I discovered dry pastel even though I used it occasionnally for some landscapes.Then I discovered the pastel pencils that immediately seduced me by the precision that could be obtained .

To day I use these pencils and pastel chalks.

Animals are my favorite subjects,I like to give them life under my pencils or chalks, I like this feeling of being able to feel the texture of their coat or their plumage.

Self-taught animal portraitist, I combine my love of animals and nature with that of pastel. During the realisation of a portrait , my emotion passes through the heart, the eyes, the hand and the paper to achieve a unique portrait of its kind.

It is not my profession ,it is my passion and it is also a great pleasure to feel the emotion of the master in front of the portrait of his pet.

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Philip Westcott Landscapes Artist

When painting landscapes, many artists focus on traditional panoramic views. Although I acknowledge this valuable interpretation I have tried to capture the more hidden view in much of my work. My paintings show the peace and tranquillity, which are to be found in isolated places of beauty. Deliberately, people are absent from these scenes but I believe the pathways and walkways, sometimes merging into the landscape, symbolises their fleeting presence. These ideas have been painted initially in watercolour enabling me an immediate response and then translated using oil paints onto larger canvases. A more thoughtful appreciation of the images can now be achieved. Freedom and spontaneity are important factors in my paintings and the use of a palette knife allows me both. I feel that sometimes these are lost with the use of brushes. My landscapes are fragmented. As natural sunlight filters through the branches, the images highlighted are the colours and shapes of nature.

I hope, by the use of texture, I have captured the depth that can be found in woodland scenes. In recent years, where abstraction has been a dominant force, landscape painting has become unfashionable with many critics. Although it has been one of Britain’s greatest traditions the rivalry of film and photography seemed to have dulled its edge.I believe there is still a place for landscape painting and artists should continue to capture new aspects of the countryside before the spreading towns and motorways destroy areas of it forever. My paintings are a tribute to the Northwest landscape

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My paintings are on show at The Goose Green Art Gallery Altrincham until the middle of January.

My website is Landscapes - Philip Westcott Hidden Talents magazine

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Graham Munt Realistic Watercolour Artist

I paint colourful, detailed and realistic watercolour paintings that capture the life and atmosphere of the rugged coastline, harbour scenes and landscapes of Cornwall. I’ve always been a painter from the moment I could hold a paintbrush as a child.

For years I continued to develop my style before studying on a Fine Art Course at University which held diverse memories. Having been a self-taught artist it was difficult to adapt my style of painting to conceptual art. However, I found the whole experience invaluable. It was there I studied various disciplines from silk screen printing to photography and art history. This encouraged me to have a more balanced view, especially having worked in isolation for so long. On leaving University I continued painting, selling my work through various Art Societies, whilst still working in an office environment. With the support of my wife, the decision to become a full-time professional artist coincided with my move to beautiful Cornwall 35 years ago, where I still reside, having brought my two daughters up just metres from the sea. It was then that my fascination with the effect of light on surfaces began. Cornwall is a very diverse County with amazing clarity of light. I like to bring that clarity into my paintings, especially when I paint a seascape or harbour scene where I accentuate the contrast of light and shade to give my work a lively and atmospheric effect, whether that be the sun sparkling across the water, reflections of a balmy day or rough seas of an

approaching storm. I unusually use watercolour sometimes adding gouache to the mix. After working out the composition the hardest part is making the first mark on the paper, it’s then a work in progress and I don’t always know what the finished painting will look like. Unfortunately, I am not a plein-air painter, which I would like to

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be, but my painting technique takes too long, so I use a combination of sketches and photographs as an aide memoir. I like my paintings to tell a story, whether that be boats moored in the harbour waiting for the fishermen to take them out, holiday makers going on a day trip, or children with their buckets and crabbing lines. I feel very lucky and privileged to live near Looe and Polperro where most of the inspiration for my work comes from and am at my happiest when dipping a paintbrush into paint and being creative.

As well as selling my work through galleries and online I reproduce prints and cards from original paintings.

Some of these can be viewed on www.grahammuntpaintings.com or via Facebook.

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Exploring Identity Through Digital Art The World of IJWBAA, also known as Pao or Paul Hafalla, is a versatile artist hailing from Pangasinan, Philippines. He encompasses the roles of digital artist, painter, and author, passionately dedicated to creating artwork that reflects the intricacies of human identity.

Drawing inspiration from renowned artists such as Rothko, Giacometti, and the Venus de Milo, IJWBAA artfully melds digital and traditional mediums to delve into the multifaceted realm of the human self. In recent months, IJWBAA has embarked on a journey within the sphere of representational figures in digital art. It commenced a year ago when he set forth to distil the essence of strength within these forms, adhering to the guiding principle of simplicity. Rothko's minimalist yet profoundly impactful style has deeply influenced him, leading him to employ basic shapes and colours to peel back the layers of individual identity.

Barbie 1800x1800 pixels Digital Art © 2023 IJWBAA

Two iconic figures from the annals of art history, Giacometti and Venus de Milo have played pivotal roles in shaping IJWBAA's artistic vision.

Giacometti's portrayal of elongated figures, devoid of intricate details and arms, has left an indelible mark on his work.

IJWBAA goes beyond mere visual representation, crafting each figure as a canvas that encapsulates an individual's identity, social status, cultural heritage, historical context, familial bonds,

and life's journey. Beneath the surface of these figures lies the intricacy of the human self, transcending the confines of mere physicality. They serve as a testament to the intricate tapestry of experiences and emotions that define human existence.

IJWBAA's art represents a delicate interplay between simplicity and complexity, inviting viewers to contemplate the profound dimensions of the human condition, which extend far beyond the boundaries of the physical body.

Christ 1800x1800 pixels Digital Art © 2023 IJWBAA

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In essence, IJWBAA's art is a profound meditation on identity, culture, and the human experience.

His unique fusion of influences and techniques elevates each of his works to a realm where every brushstroke and hue speaks to the depth and diversity of the human soul. Through digital and traditional media, he encourages observers to explore the interwoven threads of human existence, reminding them that beneath the surface, they are all intricate masterpieces, waiting to be unveiled and comprehended.

Contact: wannabelabs.com Instagram: ijwbaa info.wannabelabs@gmail.com

Rainbow Man 1800x1800 pixels Digital Art © 2023 IJWBAA

Toto (Philippines Art Collector) 1800x1800 pixels Digital Art © 2023 IJWBAA

Indians 1800x1800 pixels Digital Art © 2023 IJWBAA

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Normski

Sustainable Art Revolution In the realm of art, where creativity knows no bounds, North Wales artist Normski stands out as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Normski's distinctive creations breathe new life into discarded materials, transforming them into quirky and unique pieces that challenge the conventional notion of art.

The underlying ethos of Normski's work is a powerful statement against the throwaway culture. Everyday items that would have otherwise met their fate in landfills find a second chance under Normski's skilled hands. The artist's mantra, "Art shouldn't cost the Earth," resonates through every piece, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Normski's dedication to detail is evident in each handbuilt creation. The labor-intensive process is a testament to the artist's love for the craft, as well as a conscious choice to create enduring pieces that transcend trends and disposable culture.

More than just an artist, Normski is a proponent of sustainable art. By repurposing and reimagining materials, the artist champions a form of creativity that not only captivates the eye but also treads lightly on the planet. In a world increasingly aware of its ecological footprint, Normski's work serves as a reminder that art can be both awe-inspiring and environmentally friendly.

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More than just an artist, Normski is a proponent of sustainable art. By repurposing and reimagining materials, the artist champions a form of creativity that not only captivates the eye but also treads lightly on the planet. In a world increasingly aware of its ecological footprint, Normski's work serves as a reminder that art can be both awe-inspiring and environmentally friendly.

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Micaela Summers Landscape Artist

“I search for the colours and different hues in many of the things I encounter during my day. It is a habit which I have developed during the years since my very first art lesson. When I see a landscape or a scene which captures my attention, I have this urge feeling to recreate it in my own words and colours”.

After moving with her family for many years, living in Sweden, the USA and Argentina, Micaela settled in Lucerne, Switzerland and began oil painting in 2011. She quickly discovered a passion for it. She took courses throughout the years with different teachers, working with other mediums and learning new techniques.

Japanese Cherry Blossoms, 60x80cm, oil on canvas, 2022

Her body of work begins with sketches moving later into the recreation of the idea on the canvas. Summers uses a layered technique in which the painting is built up with several layers of fine oil paint.

Her current genre of choice is landscapes and flowers, inspired by nature, places she has visited or lived in, and in large part, from her surroundings in Central Switzerland.

Blau, oil on canvas, 80x80cm, 2023

Sahara Dust, oil on canvas, 80x80cm, 2023 Hidden Talents magazine

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Summer of ’23, oil on canvas, 60x80cm, 2023

Her work is Realistic yet sometimes Naïve. What she enjoys most, is the mixing and creation of colours to express what sees and perceives.

Micaela holds a BBA. Her work has been exhibited in Zurich, Madrid, London, Paris, Luxembourg, New York and currently in Lucerne.

For more information, please visit www.micaelasummersartist.com or follow her on Instagram @MicaelasArtworks to see her most recent works.

Still, oil on canvas, 40x60cm, 2023 Hidden Talents magazine

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Dawn Booth

Whimsical floral paintings that exude positivity and feel-good vibes Dawn is an artist from Nottingham.

She has been passionate about art from a very young child. The long six weeks holidays used to be spent drawing and painting cartoon characters from Bed Knobs and Broomsticks.

Dawn studied art, craft and Design at further education and teaching professionals recognised early on, Dawns love of colour and creative flare. Dawns use of colour are in her own words, her signature style . Little did she know, back then in her late teens the fabulous art journey that would play out.

When Dawn’s children reached their teenage years she had more time to donate to her passion . This was it, it was time to seriously go after her dream of becoming an artist. A play on her name with words Dawn Booth ~ The Art Booth was born in 2013.

Dawn set up her Facebook page and to her utmost delight the first painting sold within 20 minutes of posting it online. This was the kickstart of her art business .

Dawn has exhibited in Paris (Carrousel de Louvre ) Austria , Florence and London .Her vibrant work continues to be purchased locally and internationally too . Dawn’s art career highlights so far have been taking part in Sky Arts ‘Landscape Artist of the year’ as a Wild Card artist . Dawn has also been represented by Whistlefish Galleries and shops based in Devon Hidden Talents magazine

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and Cornwall. Dawn has been featured in the 90’s television programme ‘Our House’ which featured a mural she has painted on an interior wall in her home.

Dawn’s inspiration is taken from nature and particularly loves to create vibrant, whimsical floral paintings that exude positivity and feel good vibes .It’s the highest compliment when a customer connects with her art and makes a purchase. As an artist, ‘we bare our souls on canvas and for someone to connect with your creation is something quite magical’, Dawn explains . Creativity is so good for the soul.

Dawn works from her home studio “The Art Booth’ in the garden ( viewings by appointment )The Art Booth is a feast of colourful creations where Dawn offers art sessions , workshops and opens her studio to the public during art events.

It’s Dawn’s dream one day , to own her own gallery

/shop. It’s a very specific little barn conversation in her vision …. With a tearoom close by , offering her colourful creations to passers by. To work toward this dream , Dawn has been enjoying hiring pop up shops / galleries on a short term basis . She recently hired ‘Number 14 ‘ a gorgeous little shop in the beautiful town of Woodstock in the Cotswolds.Dawn Shared the experience with a fellow creative Ben Molyneux , a photographer / Author / artist from Oxfordshire,The little shop was a stones throw from Blenheim Palace which in itself is a beautiful place to visit . It was a huge success and we will be returning June 2024.

Dawn invites you into her colourful world and encourages you to follow your dreams too. On November 13 th The Art Booth is ten years old and to celebrate she is offering a 10% discount on your favourite piece of art. visit www.theartbooth.co.uk

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Alan Porter

Superhero to Sky Reflections

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The superhero painting was done while on a local course. It's a watercolour painted on watercolour paper and was done freehand from a magazine. It was exhibited at the end-of-year exhibition at a local venue. It was a few years ago, and I needed a closer inspection to detail. I'm trying not to be too heavy with the paintings you get a more vibrant feel when you see it. I was pleased with the finished product.

finish. There needed a lot more painting, say 3 hours or so, to complete. It was nice to get the shades and contrasts to emerge using a dry brush and limited p. You you can create a more complete picture more like the photo. I had to re-adjust some strokes and use Paynes grey for the dark areas in the top corne, etc. It was almost black in the photo it wasn't better to lighten it for the painting so as not to distract too much from the view.

The next painting was a recently finished reflection painting, with its sky reflected with Marshy Elgie and Reed's at the lower part of the painting. Painted freehand from a photo I took whilst on holiday many, many years ago and from a riverbank while fishing. The photo with others I took went into my other photo collection for art subjects to create. I began the painting while on a one-day workshop in Coventry and painted it in acrylic on canvas. I had about 2-3 hours on it and went home with it to

I am very pleased to learn today that my landscape painting will be on show in 2024 Friends exhibition at the RBSA Gallery in Birmingham UK.

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Lily

Lily Village Beauty Story Once upon a time, in a quaint little village nestled at the foot of a majestic mountain range, there lived a young woman named Lily. She possessed a unique gift - the soul of an artist. From the moment she could hold a crayon, her fingers danced across canvases and paper, bringing her imagination to life. Her artwork radiated the beauty of her inner world, and it had a profound impact on those who had the privilege to witness it.

Lily's days were filled with the vibrant colours of her palette, the gentle swish of her brushes, and the soothing whispers of her imagination. With every stroke of her hand, she created breathtaking landscapes, intricate portraits, and whimsical scenes that transported anyone who gazed upon them to a world of wonder.

Her art served as a bridge between reality and dreams, a testament to the power of human creativity.

But being an artist was more than just creating beautiful things; it was a way of life. Lily revelled in the freedom of expression that her art provided. It allowed her to convey her deepest emotions, from the joy of a radiant sunrise to the melancholy of a moonlit night. Her art was her voice, and it resonated with those who saw it, speaking to their hearts and souls.

The benefits of being an artist were abundant in Lily's life. She found solace and purpose in her creative pursuits. The act of painting or sculpting, of transforming a blank canvas into a work of art, was a therapeutic release for her. It allowed her to process her emotions and navigate the complexities of life. Through art, she could communicate what words could not convey.

Lily's art also connected her with people from all walks of life. Her exhibitions drew crowds of art enthusiasts, curious minds, and kindred spirits. The beauty of her work brought people together, fostering a sense of unity and understanding that transcended language and cultural barriers. Through her art, Lily forged meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging in her community.

As the years passed, Lily's reputation as a gifted artist grew. Her art not only touched the souls of those who beheld it but also brought her recognition and a sense of accomplishment. She was able to make a living from her passion, and she found herself surrounded by opportunities to explore new horizons and to continue to inspire others.

But perhaps the greatest benefit of being an artist was the endless wellspring of creativity that flowed from her heart and mind. With each new creation, Lily discovered new aspects of herself and the world around her.

She embraced the joy of experimentation, always evolving and pushing the boundaries of her talent. Her art was a journey without an end, a path of self-discovery that led to a deeper understanding of life's mysteries.

Lily knew that she was blessed to be an artist, for in her art, she found not only beauty but also a profound connection to the world, a sense of purpose, and a boundless well of creativity. She knew that, in her small way, she contributed to making the world a more beautiful and meaningful place.

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On the Telephone Acrylic and spray paint on canvas David Irish

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Vegetarian Wellington Recipe

How about a delicious Vegetarian Wellington for Christmas dinner?

Ingredients: • 1 sheet of puff pastry • 1 cup cooked quinoa • 1 cup chopped mushrooms (a mix of varieties works well) • 1 onion, finely chopped • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 cup spinach, chopped • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary) • Salt and pepper to taste • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

• Egg wash (optional, for brushing the pastry)

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

• In a pan, fry the chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.

• Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove the pan from heat.

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mushroom mixture, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning to taste.

• Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface into a rectangle large enough to encase the filling.

• Spoon the quinoa and mushroom mixture onto the center of the pastry.

• Carefully fold the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges to form a log shape.

• Place the Wellington on a baking sheet, seam side down. If desired, brush the pastry with an egg wash for a golden finish.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

• Allow the Vegetarian Wellington to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your festive and flavorful Vegetarian Wellington for Christmas dinner!

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Mince Pie Recipe

Welcome to a delightful journey of festive flavors with our Mince Pie recipe! Embrace the warmth of the holiday season as you indulge in these sweet, spiced treasures. Our easy-to-follow instructions will guide you through creating the perfect golden pastry filled with a rich and aromatic mincemeat blend.

Whether it's a cherished family tradition or a new addition to your holiday spread, these mince pies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients: • 1 cup minced mixed fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 cup shredded suet (beef or vegetarian suet)

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• Zest and juice of 1 orange

• 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice

• Ready-made shortcrust pastry

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Icing sugar for dusting

Instructions: • In a bowl, mix together the minced mixed fruit, suet, brown sugar, mixed spice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, Let it sit for at least an hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a floured surface and cut out circles to line your muffin tin.

• Fill each pastry case with a spoonful of the mincemeat mixture.

• Cut out slightly smaller circles for the pie lids or create a lattice pattern with strips of pastry.

• Place the lids on top of the mincemeat or create a lattice, pressing the edges to seal.

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

• Allow the mince pies to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

• Dust with icing sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade mince pies.

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Sarah Tomlinson Ageing is about growth

I started the Diploma, thinking about ageing as a process of decline and disintegration. While that is indeed part of the ageing process, getting older opens opportunities for growth and development that you just don’t have time for when you are working full time. I now think about myself as an artist, which is something I thought I could never do. Using textiles as an artistic medium is a challenge because you can’t rub it out like pencil or paint over it – but the added dimension of texture and being able to create layers is something that I find fascinating. I have had my own mental health challenges in the past and found having a creative outlet to be extremely important in coping with that. As I progress over the next couple of years, I hope to not only explore what ageing means to me personally, but also to find the courage to go back and process some of the experiences buried in my past, using a visual, hands-on process. I think I have reached a point where I feel confident enough to share my ideas and art with other people.

Over the years I have dipped in and out of many forms of art - mosaic, collage, stained glass, and textile art. As my children have pointed out – they all involve cutting things up and rearranging them. In my previous career as a psychiatrist in Birmingham , I hopefully even helped a few people to do the same! At the beginning of the Covid lockdown I rediscovered my sewing machine. I had a lot of ideas but became frustrated by lacking the design skills to put them into practice. In 2020 I found an online City and Guilds course in patchwork and quilting with Gillian Cooper and things just took off. I discovered a world of observation, drawing, dyeing, printing, making a mess and generally having fun. I finished the Certificate at the end of last year and am now enjoying new challenges with a Diploma where I am exploring ways of expressing ideas about ageing through the use of shape, colour stitch and other yet to be discovered techniques. It is useful to have a structure to help me think through my ideas and having course requirements, means that you must at times, try things outside of your comfort zone, which helps you develop.

www.instagram.com/sarahthebass

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Rodrigo Franzão

Versatile Artist Engaging in Mixed Media, Painting, and Video Art

Blue Forest

In his artist's statement, Franzão contemplates the distortions intrinsic to urban environments and the prevailing values within contemporary society. He keenly observes and accentuates intricate details and mechanisms, often fragmented into dispersions, intervals, and noises, across mixed media art, textile art, and video art. His mastery lies in seamlessly weaving together two-dimensional and three-dimensional effects, establishing a symbiotic relationship between them. Within his artistic realm, he skillfully harmonizes the striking contrast between form and colour, light and shadow, as well as movement and inertia.

Rodrigo Franzão, a versatile artist engaging in mixed media, painting, and video art, divides his creative life between two vibrant cities: New Orleans, USA, and São Paulo, Brazil. His artistic pursuits are deeply intertwined with philosophical and psychological perspectives, manifesting in a profound examination of human conduct within societal contexts. This exploration materializes across an array of mediums, including textiles, recycled materials, natural pigments, and paper. Notably, his portfolio boasts an impressive history of both solo and group exhibitions, with his artwork gracing private collections in prominent global locations, including New York, São Paulo, London, Los Angeles, Berlin, Portugal, Spain, Detroit, Miami, and, of course, New Orleans. Moreover, it has found its place in public collections like the National Arts Clubs in New York, the Exhibition Center Odivelas Museum in Lisbon, and the Superior Court of Justice Museum in Brasília, Brazil.

Franzão's artistic oeuvre serves as a profound embodiment of his philosophical and psychological approach to artistry. His unwavering commitment to exploring human behaviour within the framework of society is at its core. Through his mixed media creations, he sheds light on the intricacies that often elude our daily attention. Notably, he showcases his versatility by employing a diverse range of mediums, Hidden Talents magazine

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from textiles and recycled materials to the evocative use of natural pigments. This multifaceted approach has allowed him to share his creative vision through an extensive array of individual and collective exhibitions held across the globe.

In his reflective artist's statement, Franzão delves into the distortions that permeate urban landscapes and the contemporary societal values that shape our world. His artistic lens skillfully captures and elevates the often fragmented details within mixed media art. With an innovative approach, he seamlessly unites two-dimensional and three-dimensional effects, forging a delicate synergy that gracefully reconciles form and colour, light and shadow, as well as movement and inertia.

The whispered of someone's heart

Franzão's artistic journey remains a compelling exploration of human behaviour within the contemporary societal landscape. His utilization of mixed media art serves as a powerful instrument to unveil the subtleties that typically evade our daily perceptions. His signature style lies in creating a symbiotic relationship between two-dimensional and three-dimensional effects, effectively harmonizing the dynamic interplay of form and colours.

Purity Hidden Talents magazine

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DOYEN

Digital Artist and Photographer Who or what is D O Y E N D O Y E N is Not a person D O Y E N is not a thing D O Y E N is a concept!

D O Y E N is the allencompassing title for my multidisciplinary artwork and music.

I'm a Digital Artist, Photographer. I also work with multimedia as a multi-instrumentalist songwriter, and lyricist.

I have composed 3 short Film soundtracks for a local drama group films, as well as an Aural surround multimedia slide show, entitled Second City Symbiosis with an accompanying soundtrack, talk, and exhibition featuring 20 twenty pieces of photography reflecting on aspects of the city of Birmingham UK.

It comprised an hour-long piece of Music using traditional electric guitar and synth sounds, as well as sampled sound, generating my own instruments created from samples of the city centre traffic.

The music is themed around the diverse culture within a city, and designed to reflect its heartbeat and pace, tranquillity and chaos.

The music was deliberately structured to heart synchronise heart rates for each. Likewise, convey the emotion or sterility of the shots.

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The art you see here comes under the title of S Y M B I O S I S and reflects on various aspects of people within city life.

Routine, alienation, anonymity, and subverting of the individual.

The regimented daily life and toil, as we merge with others, the buildings, and technology we utilise daily.

I try to reflect on how we are walking in ghosts and shadows of our past, living in the present, and creating the future shadows simultaneously.

The process is incredibly symbiotic in its own right and feeds ideas back to me as the creator.

Art, Word, Music, Photography, animation, and multimedia.

This is my Symbiosis, This is D O Y E N .

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Frank Edmunds Actor Sculpture & Musician

Born in Derby in 1950, I was educated at a Grammar School where the focus was on science and technology. On leaving school, it was industry as a microbiology technician where my working life began. Possibly as a response to this environment I became increasingly drawn to the arts. A change in direction became inevitable and during the early 1970’s I commenced studies in Fine Art Sculpture at Birmingham Art College. After leaving college I followed various teaching posts including that of Education Officer at H.M.P. Winson Green, Birmingham and then a lecturer in Creative Studies at Handsworth College, Birmingham.

‘Zebra Venus Clock’ mixed media Ht 60cms

My post college work comprised a series of brightly coloured still life sculptures and assemblages that explore formal modelling techniques. The on-going ‘Venus de Milo’ relief sculptures focus on developing thematic ideas in the same way as one would in a sketchbook, only the pages are not paper but white plaster reliefs, while the wall objects pursue concepts that use text and poetry and all are in essence collage based which has allowed me to produce a body of work that explores mark making, construction methods and the richness of materials coming together. The poetry pieces have also allowed me to develop an ‘alter ego’ as frontman for the performance band ‘Dada Mouton Noir’.

‘Musician’s Nightmare’ assemblage Size A1+ Hidden Talents magazine

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In the 1990’s my work became more narrative, figurative in expression and with a personal interest in mythology and the fruitful ideology of Greek story telling. The opportunity to work in bronze has enriched these pieces as well as enabling me to explore a new process in terms of both its limitless possibilities and time consuming constraints.

This new body of work still conforms to the exploration of abstraction, realism and the formal elements of sculpture such as mass, weight, shape, balance and texture but the common theme that pulls the work together is object making and the physical nature of bonze. The 2007 commission for 3 large mythological sculptures, cast in bronze and sited in ’The Sculpture Park’ in Surrey, represent the fulfilment of this project that was started in the mid 1990’s. The notion of enquiry is the essence of artistic expression and bronze has allowed me to articulate new avenues of research within my work.

Crouching Siren’ Bronze Ht 1.8 metres

‘Jovs’ Bronze Ht 1.8 metres

And finally, Ray Davies, ex Hornsey College of Art student and frontman for Kinks may have said back in the 1960’s, ‘it is better to have an art college grant cheque than the hassle of signing on at the dole office every 2 weeks. You can become an artist or a rock musician or both.’ Things may come and things may go but art college bands go on forever?

Hence Dada Mouton Noir, check us out on YouTube.

‘Head of a Unicorn’ Bronze Ht 4 metres Hidden Talents magazine

‘Warrior under duress’ Bronze Ht 50 cms

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The Spirit of Nature Hidden Talents magazine

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Lizzie Jayne

Kindness Warms the Day “I know you’ve been following me home from school little duck,” said the girl, looking back over her shoulder. “Where are you from?”

The duck peeped out from behind the tree. “I'm not really from anywhere,” replied the duck. “I nestle near the lake when I’m tired.”

“Here, I have something for you,” said the little girl, and she reached into her school bag and pulled out a lovely red bow tie.

“For me!” Gulped the duck holding back a tear.

“No one has ever been kind to me before. I never was wanted.”

“Well, I can’t bear to see you cold,” said the little girl. “And, you can come home with me. I want you to meet my best friend.

You’ll like the little cat.

What’s your name?”

“Benjamin Puddles,” said the duck, looking up at the little girl. He suddenly felt a warmth in his tummy he hadn’t felt before. He wasn’t too keen on cats, but oh my, how proud he was of his new tie!

Do something nice for someone today!

Original art & short story by Lizzie Jayne (The Heart Gang)

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Still oil on canvas, 40x60cm, 2023 Micaela Summers Hidden Talents magazine

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Couple Oil on canvas David Irish

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Welcome the fire within, persist with unwavering hope, and let nothing extinguish your unstoppable spirit in 2024.