Make It Mag Issue 3 by Zebra In A Top Hat Press

MAG

ISSUE 3: JULY / AUGUST 2012

BRINGING YOU THE VERY BEST OF INDIE FROM AROUND THE GLOBE! 1

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Hi, how are you? YEEHAW, IT’S SUMMER AND IT’S ISSUE THREE! HEADS FALLING OFF WITH TIREDNESS ASIDE, WE ARE MORE THAN THRILLED WITH ALL THE FEATURES IN THIS JULY / AUGUST ISSUE OF MIM! WE HAVE A WEALTH OF DIVERSITY, FROM AERIEL ART, IRISH ROCK’N’ROLLERS AND BALLOON SELLERS TO BLACK CATS IN POCKETS, AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL COMICS AND VINTAGE STYLE MILINERS. PLEASE HELP US TO KEEP SPREADING THE WORD BY TELLING EVERYONE YOU KNOW ABOUT US, JOINING OUR MAILING LIST AND FOLLOWING US ON FB & TWITTER! HOPE YOU ENJOY! MAGGIE & THE TEAM MIM

Contents

ART & CRAFT

FASHION

MUSIC

SPACE

COMICS

BOOKS

FILM

HANDMADE

EDIBLES

AGONY AUNT

FREE DOWNLOADABLE EP WE ALL LOVE FREE THINGS, ESPECIALLY WHEN THEY ARE FREE DOWNLOADABLE MUSIC GIFTS FROM MIM’S UNDERGROUND RADIO VAULT. VOLUME THREE INCLUDES SOME FANTASTIC INDIE TREASURES, BROUGHT TO YOU BY INDIE BANDS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE. CLICK THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE COPY NOW! HOPE YOU ENJOY! MAGGIE & THE TEAM MIM

GREAT NORTH WHEN YOU GO (From the LP Halves) greatnorth.bandcamp.com

Volume Three opens with ‘When You Go’, a euphoric track from this New Zealand Outfit’s second album, Halves.

THE ALUSKAS BACKWATER WOODS (From the LP DRAW!) thealuskas.bandcamp.com

DRAW! is the musical feast that The Aluskas have long promised and opening track ‘Backwater Woods’ is a raw rocker.

MIKE BELL & THE BELLTONES SHAKE SOME ACTION (From the LP Payback) mikebellandthebelltones.bandcamp.com

ROLLA OLAK MAGIC SPELL (From the LP Western Heart) rollaolak.bandcamp.com

With a sound so authentically 1950’s it is no wonder that The Belltones have gained a large following all over Europe.

Western Heart is the second album by Canadian Native Rolla Olak. ‘Magic Spell’ is one of the record’s highlights.

THE STAR DEPARTMENT PORCELAIN DOLL (From the LP The Pea Green Boat) thestardepartment.bandcamp.com

Dublin’s own, The Star Department are an electronic, ambient group and their second single is a prime example of this. 5

EAMONN DOWD & THE RACKETEERS THE WOMEN AROUND HERE (From the LP Mansions Of Gold) www.cdbaby.com/cd/racketeers3

On ‘The Women Around Here’, Eamonn Dowd sounds like a man possessed. The song’s parent album is a must buy.

MIM

ART & CRAFT IN THIS ISSUE WE FEATURE A WEALTH OF EXTRAORDINARY ART & CRAFT TALENT. WE HAVE MAGIC CARPET VIEWS, PASTEL GOTHS AND MULTI MEDIUM CHARACTERS...

DAVID THOMAS SMITH

MIM

ART & CRAFT: DAVID THOMAS SMITH

EIRE

ART COMES IN ALL FORMS AND WE ARE IN AWE OF THESE AERIEL SHOTS OF PATTERNED LANDSCAPES PATCHED TOGETHER BY DAVID THOMAS SMITH. HIS ARTWORK PORTRAYS MINUTE BUILDINGS, RIVERS AND INDUSTRIAL SUPERBNESS THROUGH A KALEIDOSCOPIC KEYHOLE...

“The images are composited from thousands of Jpegs taken from Google Maps” MIM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BACKGROUND? DAVID: I hadn’t a clue what I wanted to do when I left school. I was in class one day and my Irish teacher asked me what I’d like to be and I replied photographer because I thought it was a cool word in Irish, grianghrafadóir (pronounced green-graph-a-door) and a few fancy words would help me pass since Irish had never been a strong point of mine. Little did I know, he actually took that on board. A few weeks later, a photographer working for a charity came to talk to us. My teacher introduced me to him and he offered to help me make a portfolio. Strange how things can come to pass, but I accepted and applied for a few courses. I decided to study for a year at the Sallynoggin College of Further Education were my interest turned to passion. Afterwards I attended the University of Wales, Newport and obtained a BA in Documentary Photography. MIM: WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU? DAVID: Music, life, people, parties but photographically, I’ve got to say the Gurskys, Burtinskys, Soth, Geffeller and people I post on my blog. MIM: HOW DO YOU GET THESE AERIAL SHOTS? DAVID: The images are composited from thousands of Jpegs taken from Google Maps and then manipulated in Photoshop. That’s how you get such high quality from such low res files.

“imagine a Persian rug but instead of floral patterns the design is made up from aerial views of buildings and cities” MIM: WHAT IS IT ABOUT THIS VIEW OF THE WORLD THAT YOU LIKE? DAVID: I like the way it makes the landscape more abstract, that it becomes something to decypher.

MIM EIRE

MIM: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WORK TO SOMEONE WHO COULDN’T SEE IT?

MIM: WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU AND YOUR FABULOUS KALEIDOSCOPIC ARTWORK? DAVID: I’m currently being represented by the Copper House Gallery in Dublin, we’re working toward my first solo exhibition and then getting the whole body of work on tour. So keep your eyes peeled as it’s coming to a purty picture house near you soon.

DAVID: It depends on who I’m talking to but generally I tell them to imagine a Persian rug but instead of floral patterns the design is made up from aerial views of buildings and cities, areas that are strategically important economically and politically. MIM: IF YOU COULD TRADE PLACES WITH ANY OTHER PERSON FOR A WEEK, FAMOUS OR NOT, LIVING OR DEAD, REAL OR FICTIONAL, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

Mim:Wowee, this work is just awesome, a superb talent, we want them all. Thanks David!

DAVID: The Pope, head of the CIA or anyone who you know has got some crazy secrets. You’d know who killed who, the truth about aliens - who knows. Whatever it is, I bet it’s pretty awesome.

www.cargocollective.com/dtsmith

JESS QUINN IT’S NOT OFTEN THAT WE COME ACROSS SOMEONE WHO IS GIFTED IN A WHOLE BUNCH OF DIFFERENT ARTISTIC MEDIUMS BUT JESS QUINN CERTAINLY IS! WE CATCH UP WITH HER TO DISCUSS BRISTOL, CREATIVE FREEDOM AND CHILDHOOD INSPIRATIONS...

“I am less worried about convention and categories and now work in a very intuitive way, trusting my instincts”

MIM

ART & CRAFT: JESS QUINN

ENGLAND

MIM

MIM: WHO IS JESS QUINN? JESS: I make characters from a variety of mediums but am never sure exactly how to categorise them. They have their feet in many camps, a little bit of art, craft, design and toy making. I studied painting at Glasgow School of Art and my son was born a year after graduating. Searching for creative outlets, I tentatively took up sewing and knitting, skills my mum had taught me as a child and mediums that were not encouraged in the macho world of painting I had inhabited. It turned out to be a very liberating experience and as I shook off my prejudices and embraced this new world of embroidery, textiles and yarn, I discovered an amazing creative freedom. I am less worried about convention and categories and now work in a very intuitive way, trusting my instincts and using a variety of mediums to realise each idea.

ENGLAND

MIM: WHERE ARE YOU CURRENTLY BASED? JESS: I am based in the city of Bristol, in the south west of the UK. About an hour from London. I live in a very vibrant multicultural and creative area of the city. A lot of poverty and grime but also artists’ studios, independent shops and galleries, with graffiti art on every available wall and an amazing mix of interesting people.

“I enjoy the political and historical connections with embroidery and knitting, the associations or even memories attached to different fabrics” MIM: WHICH MEDIUM IS YOUR FAVOURITE (IF ANY) AND WHY? JESS: My fine art education was quite traditional, which was amazing in terms of the skills learnt, and every art student needs something to kick against! But I have learnt my work evolves and grows when I don’t restrict myself to a set formula. The different mediums inform one other and I discover new ways of working, for instance modelling with clay has freed up my approach to 3D textiles, I am more sculptural in my approach, pulling, squeezing and sewing the fabric until I am happy with a shape. I love that every day may reveal something new, a different combination of materials that will spark a whole stream of creative ideas. So although I always assumed painting would be my one and only, I have been wonderfully surprised at how much I have grown as an Artist / Maker by exploring new mediums. I enjoy the political and historical connections with embroidery and knitting, the associations or even memories attached to different fabrics. Linen says one thing, synthetic pom poms or pvc another and vintage prints, well you could get lost in that world and never return. I love the physicality of working with clay and adore the smell of oil paint and turpentine. MIM: WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES THOSE FUNNY LITTLE FACES AND THE COLOUR YOU USE IN YOUR WORK? JESS: So many things from family and friends to people in the street, I note every outfit and every expression. Where to start with Artists? I’m reading about the surrealist painters Leonora Carrington and Remedios Varo, wonderful inspirational women. Other favourites include Joan Miro, James Ensor, Louise Bourgoius, Niki de Saint Phalle, Kazimir Malevich, Picasso and the list just goes on! Childhood favourites in illustration include Maurice Sendak, Barbapapa books, peanuts by Charles m Shulz , Dr Seuss, Beatrix Potter, Tintin by Herge, Lucky Luke by Morris & Goscinny. Then there is my childhood TV, Sesame Street, Danger Mouse, Scooby Doo, Magic Roundabout, Crystal Tipps and Alistair, Roobarb and Custard, Wacky Races. Vintage toys and cartoons, Japanese anime, 1920’s Mickey Mouse, 1930’s modernism, kitsch creations from the 50’s and 60’s like ceramic planters that are winking at you with little string legs and big red noses! And of course the wonderful and talented community I have met online. The internet is an extraordinary and rich source for everything from discovering vintage Japanese children’s book illustration to meeting other Artists and makers from all over the world, I love it.

Mim: How could those little faces not make you melt! We’ve turned into a pile of goo! Thanks Jess! 11

www.etsy.com/shop/jessquinnsmallart

DANNY BRITO

MIM

ART & CRAFT: DANNY BRITO

WE’VE RECENTLY COME ACROSS DANNY BRITO’S WORK AND FELT INSTANTLY ENGAGED. CUTESY FASHIONISTAS WITH SHINY RED NOSES AND ELBOWS FEATURE FREQUENTLY IN HIS BEAUTIFUL IMAGES. WE CATCH UP WITH DANNY TO TALK WHIMSY, POLAROIDS & INSPIRATIONS...

“I like to draw sort of whimsical fashionable girls and boys”

MIM

MIM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND WHY YOU GOT INTO ART? DANNY: Well I’ve drawn basically my entire life but didn’t realize it was what I wanted to do until after high school. Even then, I went to school for graphic design for two years and then realized it wasn’t for me. Ever since then I’ve been drawing and illustrating any chance I get.

MIM: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WORK? DANNY: I like to draw sort of whimsical fashionable girls and boys, so I would probably say modern low-brow but with a cute edge. MIM: WHERE DO YOU GET THE IDEAS FOR THE CHARACTERS IN YOUR PICTURES? DANNY: Lately I’ve been inspired by kind of teenage sub-cultures, mainly the alternative ones like pastel Goths or Kawaii girls, but anything really could inspire me for a piece. Currently I’m working on a piece inspired by a character from Kiki’s Delivery Service that was in the movie for two minutes, I just loved her look so much.

“I’m very visual. So most times when I’m working I’ll have some movie or tv show playing in the background” MIM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR POLAROID PROJECT? DANNY: I started the Polaroid Project a few years ago. I wanted to offer low cost commissions but have a kind of original twist to them. So I decided to put small drawings into a painted Polaroid frame. It’s kind of been on hiatus for a few months but I’m going to reopen it soon for the holiday season, which tends to be a big time for the project. MIM: WHAT OR WHO INSPIRES YOU? DANNY: The people around me inspire me; I take little bits of my friends quirks and put them into my art, as well as movies and TV shows. I’ve never been one to be inspired by music, I’m very visual. So most times when I’m working I’ll have some movie or TV show playing in the background. MIM: IF YOU COULD BE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD YOU WANT YOUR SUPERPOWERS TO BE? DANNY: It’s always a toss-up between being able to fly and being able to breath underwater. Breathing underwater is facilitating because I’ve always loved mermaids, but I’d love to be able to just fly to London or fly to LA so I think I would chose flying. MIM: FINALLY, WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU ? DANNY: Next up I’m working with designing textiles featuring some of my illustrations for merchandise like skirts, tops, and bags and quite possibly shoes.

Mim: We love the sweetness and vibrancy of this work. It’s so fun and free, thanks Danny!

www.dannybrito.com

WWW . BAUBIE SUNSHINE .COM

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MIM

MUSIC: REVIEWS

MUSIC THERE’S A WHOLE LOT OF GREAT MUSIC BEING PLAYED BY INDEPENDENT BANDS RIGHT NOW. THIS ISSUE WE CATCH UP WITH THE ALUSKAS TO DISCUSS THEIR ROCKIN’ DEBUT LP AND WE ROUND UP THE BEST NEW INDIE RECORDS OF THE MOMENT...

THE ALUSKAS

OUR FAVOURITE INDIE MUSIC OF THE SEASON

“But while the songs are reflective, they are also uplifting”

FROM: Auckland, NZ RELEASED: 27.05.2012 STYLE: Alt Country / Folk / Rock

GREAT NORTH - HALVES [LP] There is an epic quality to the music of Great North, Auckland’s finest Americana export. Their sound echoes that of early Bruce Springsteen and Arcade Fire but the roots of songs like ‘Lead Me To The Light’ reside in an older form of folk song writing. Having formed in 2009, singer / guitarist / songwriter Hayden Donnell eventually married bassist Rachel Donnell. Dale Campbell (Piano / Vocals) and Strahan Cole (Guitar) complete the line up (Drums were provided by Olly Scott-Dye before he left the band). Halves, the bands second LP continues the groups tradition of employing simple recording techniques, the harmony singing a sweet reminder of The Swell Season. Actually, Hayden’s voice isn’t that dissimilar to Glen Hansard. Some of the songs reflect Hayden’s Grandfathers care for his wife nearing the end of her life and as such, a melancholic air hangs over proceedings. But while the songs are reflective, they are also uplifting, the likes of ‘I Will Be Made New’ and ‘When You Go’ marking the record as a joyous ode to lasting love.

“Bell invokes the ghosts of his rock heroes”

FROM: Helsinki, Finland RELEASED: 02.06.2012 STYLE: 50’s Rock ‘n’ Roll / Rockabilly / Blues / Country

MIKE BELL & THE BELLTONES - PAYBACK [LP] Mike Bell & The Belltones have made quite a name for themselves since the release of their debut EP 3 years ago. With a sound so authentically 1950’s it is no wonder that the band have gained a large following all over Europe. Fronted by Mike Bell (real name Miikka Siira) (Vocals / Guitar), the Belltones are Timo Kalijärvi (Lead Guitar), Iikku Riepponen (Double Bass) & Japi Saario (Drums). All except one of the songs here are Bell compositions (‘Cryin’ All Night’ is a Nightbeats original). The album was recorded in Berlins’ Lightning Recorders Studio using analogue equipment with the band performing each of the cuts live through a handful of mics. On Payback, Bell invokes the ghosts of his rock heroes, moving from Elvis (‘Shake Some Action’) & Jerry Lee Lewis (‘Payback’), to Roy Orbison (‘Cryin’ All Night’) & Buddy Holly (‘Loretta’). The band rock their way through the album extremely convincingly and all in all, Payback is a fantastic new take on a much loved musical era.

“one of Canada’s brightest alt-country performers”

FROM: Vancouver, Canada RELEASED: 01.06.2012 STYLE: Rock / Acoustic / Alt-Country

ROLLA OLAK - WESTERN HEART [LP] With a look not unlike George Harrison circa 1970, Canadian Rolla Olak sounds like a cross between Tom Petty and Neil Young. Olak’s second record, Western Heart, follows his 2009 self-titled debut. That album mixed rock ‘n’ roll, country, folk and blues elements extremely well and his new long player, Western Heart, continues his exploration of those myriad styles and themes. Olak co-recorded most of the album with Tanis Gibbons in a shed in his backyard. Opener ‘Heart That Won’t Let Go’ sees the backing band rock like Tom Petty’s Heartbreakers while live favourite ‘Karolina’ hints at Olak’s barely concealed love of fellow Canadian Neil Young. The guitar playing on ‘Golden Child’ echoes The Cardinals finer efforts with Ryan Adams (Cold Roses etc) but the showstoppers are ‘God Only Knows’ & ‘Magic Spell’. The former is a ghostly lament while the latter rattles along, always threatening to fall apart but never does. Western Heart is a finely crafted rootsy rock ‘n’ roll record from one of Canada’s brightest alt-country performers.

MUSIC: REVIEWS

“DRAW! is already shaping up to be one of the albums of the year”

FROM: Dublin, Ireland RELEASED: 30.07.2012 STYLE: Rock / Blues / Folk / Country

THE ALUSKAS - DRAW! [LP] DRAW! is the musical feast that The Aluskas have long promised. A loose concept of sorts, the record opens with the sound of gunfire and follows the albums main character as he moves from bad relationships (‘Lurleen’), across the ocean (‘The Sailor’), through some dark corridors (‘Cobwebs’) to his final redemption (‘Where We Started Out’, ‘Reborn In Time’). The record effortlessly jumps from 50’s rock ‘n’ roll and Pumpkins-esque rock to Irish Ballad and warped Beach Boy-style folk. There are three standout tracks however, one from each of the singers. The ominous riff of ‘Skin & Bones’ lacerates the songs’ foolish central figure. The beautiful piano figure and spoken word outro of ‘The Sailor’ is a heart-breaking ballad Christy Moore would be proud of while ‘Reborn In Time’ offers a vision of the group’s ambitions. The songs aching harmonies are swallowed by the monumental strings and the bands performance is epic to say the least. It’s still early days yet but DRAW! is already shaping up to be one of the albums of the year.

“the vocals have a dreamy and haunted quality”

FROM: Dublin, Ireland RELEASED: 14.05.2012 STYLE: Alt / Ambient / Dream Pop / Rock

THE STAR DEPARTMENT - PORCELAIN DOLL [SINGLE] The Star Department have been an intermittently on-going affair since their inception as a four-piece in 2006. Having released an EP (Flickering Lights) at that time, the band went to ground and not much was heard again until 2011 when, re-emerging with only half the band (Michael Orange & Justin Commins), the group released their debut single ‘Antlers’. That songs’ broken rhythm patterns recall Kid A era Radiohead and Gomez’ construction style of song writing circa Liquid Skin. ‘Antlers’ is the first piece of the puzzle that will eventually make up the groups’ debut album The Pea Green Boat (due Spring 2013). ‘Porcelain Doll’, the bands’ latest effort, is Piece #2. The song has an overriding electronic edge to it and the vocals have a dreamy and haunted quality, not unlike some of the more experimental tracks on The Smashing Pumpkins Adore. The future looks bright for The Star Department.

FORGOTTEN GEMS: LOST MUSIC BY OVERLOOKED OR DISBANDED INDIE GROUPS

“The albums lyrics are littered with occult references”

FROM: Ireland RELEASED: 2009 STYLE: Rock / Blues / Folk / Country

EAMONN DOWD & THE RACKETEERS - MANSIONS OF GOLD [LP] Mansions of Gold, The Racketeers fifth album stands as the peak achievement of their career so far. Drummer Chris Teusners’ solid, non-flashy approach leaves enough room for Dowd to do his thing without ever getting in the way. Likewise, bassist / producer Les Keye performs in a similar capacity, helping to form a rock solid foundation from which the songs’ stories can emerge clearly. But the main man here is Eamonn Dowd and the albums’ singles alone (‘The Women Around Here’, ‘45’ and ‘Sweet Angel’) are testament to his song writing talent. His Jagger-esque vocal delivery on ‘Sweet Angel’ is very inviting while the likes of ‘Money’, ‘45’ and ‘The Women Around Here’ are blistering rockers that sit very well among the Racketeers ever expanding back catalogue. The albums lyrics are littered with occult references and at times Dowd sounds like a man possessed. Maybe, this is where he gets his drive. Whatever it is, long may it continue.

ET G R O F T ’ N DO OAD L N W O D O T EE R F P E R U YO WITH THIS M I M F O Y P CO

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THE ALUSKAS

MIM

MUSIC INTERVIEW: THE ALUSKAS

EIRE

DUBLIN ROCK ‘N’ ROLLERS, THE ALUSKAS, STOP BY FOR A CHAT ABOUT THE MAKING OF THEIR BRAND NEW DEBUT ALBUM, DRAW! FILLED WITH DIVERSE SOUNDS AND WONDEROUS MELODIES, WE WERE EXCITED TO TALK TO ONE OF OUR FAVOURITE NEW INDIE BANDS...

“in this day and age, when it is hard to catch and maintain someone’s interest, the shorter the album the better” MIM: WHAT ONE WORD BEST DESCRIBES THE ALUSKAS? ALUSKAS: Creative. MIM: WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM YOUR UP AND COMING ALBUM, DRAW! AND HOW DOES YOUR ALBUM DIFFER FROM OTHERS OUT TODAY? ALUSKAS: It seems at the moment that a lot of big bands spend a long time recording their albums and sometimes these records get the life tweaked out of them by spending so long on them. With our album, we have tried to maintain a certain spontaneity, which we feel we have achieved through playing all the songs as a live band together in the studio, as opposed to individually overdubbing separate parts. Also, we feel there is no filler material on the record and its quite short as well, only a little over a half hour. Most albums in the 60’s were between 30-40 minutes long and we think, in this day and age, when it is hard to catch and maintain someone’s interest, the shorter the album the better. Also, the album really is a mixed bag of styles, with some straight ahead rockers, some acoustic and traditional influences and some innovative uses of unusual instruments and sound effects.

“nobody expects the man at the back to be singing and writing” MIM: WHO WRITES THE SONGS? DAVE: We all evenly write the songs, sometimes together, sometimes apart. A lot of songs are started by each member on their own and then are taken to the others for further writing and development. ANT: Being the drummer of the band, nobody expects the man at the back to be singing and writing because the drummer is usually just the rhythm keeper. But because I can play guitar, I started writing songs years ago and have been able to contribute equally both in terms of singing and writing.

MIM: WHERE DID YOU GET THE NAME THE ALUSKAS & WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

ANT: Well obviously me and Dave are brothers but I met Phily in St Marks School in 1st year. I am proud to say I introduced him to the Beatles. Up to then he was listening to the Karate Kid Soundtrack and Steve Vai.

DAVE: I was looking through an old gun book and came across the name. It’s the name of a pistol used in Wild West times and has since disappeared. It’s quite a mysterious gun and I was fascinated with it. There is a legend that goes with the pistol which will be revealed throughout our career as we go on.

PHIL: I disagree strongly with Ant’s recollection of events and pre-empt and strongly disagree with whatever Dave’s answer will be.

MIM

MIM: HOW DID YOU ALL MEET?

EIRE

MIM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR RECORDING PROCESS FOR DRAW!

DAVE: I’m not sure what happened but when I met Phil first, he was listening to Yngwie Malmsteen on heavy rotation. That’s all I’m saying. Hahaha.

ALUSKAS: We went in to record the debut album in AP Studios and employed Antimo Kelly Puca, as our Engineer. We retained the role of Producer because firstly we wanted to retain complete control of the creative process and secondly, we really knew what type of record we wanted to make. We knew we wanted our first album to be a raw straight ahead rock record with some more complex songs with adventurous arrangements that point to a possible future direction for the band.

“You should be in a band for the right reasons, rather than to be just part of a scene”

We recorded the album quickly for two reasons; first, we knew that albums even as complex as Rubber Soul & Revolver were recorded in no more than 2 months. I think The Beatles got it right early on because they didn’t mess around it the studio. And the creativity that came from them under those time constraints showed us that we could record an album fast but that didn’t mean we would have to sacrifice anything in terms of quality of recording. Also, bands like the White Stripes record their albums very fast and I like the attitude they have, that the performance is the most important. Even if there are one or two mistakes, or missed parts etc, it is the feel of the track that matters. And that is what we were striving for. We were trying to make a REAL album that sounded like it was played by humans, not machines.

MIM: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE FELLOW INDIE BANDS? ANT: Every single opportunity for self promotion should be grabbed with both hands. Don’t settle for just a MySpace page, for instance, get onto as many social media sites as possible. PHIL: You should be in a band for the right reasons, rather than to be just part of a scene. The main reason anyone should be in a band is the music. Ultimately, the songs are the most important, not the attitude or the image. The songs are what you will stand and fall by.

Mim: These guys are going to be a huge success. Get your mitts on the album, you won’t be disappointed! Thanks Aluskas.

www.thealuskas.com

SPACE

WHAT OH WHAT IS OUT THERE? THIS ISSUE WE CHAT TO PHILIP TINSLEY FROM THE ALUSKAS TO FIND OUT ABOUT MERCURY AND VENUS’ FACTS & FABLES...

MIM

SPACE: MERCURY & VENUS

EIRE

“it was the fastest moving planet across the night sky” MERCURY AND VENUS This month we take a look at not one but two of the solar systems inner most planets, Mercury and Venus. These two celestial bodies are the closest in proximity to the Sun, Mercury being the nearer of the two but despite them being neighbours they share little in common with each other. Mercury is almost half the size of Venus, its surface littered with craters and has barely any atmosphere. Venus on the other hand is closer to Earth’s size, has a weak magnetic field and hides the secrets of its surface under a thick atmosphere. Mercury remains one of the least explored planets of the solar system because of how close it is to the Sun. The Hubble telescope has never been pointed at Mercury as the light from the Sun would damage it, whereas Venus is one of the most well documented of the planets.

ancient Greeks initially had two names for the planet; “Apollo” when it was visible in the sky in daylight and “Hermes” at night. They later discovered that these were in fact the same planet. So far, there have only been two spacecraft sent to investigate Mercury closely; the Mariner 10 mission in the 70’s and the Messenger Spacecraft which arrived in 2008. Below are a couple of interesting facts and as usual a strange conspiracy about the planet itself. THE NEW “SMALLEST PLANET” & ITS ECCENTRIC ORBIT Since Pluto is no longer considered one of the planets of the solar system, it brings the total down from 9 to 8. It also means that its previous statistics no longer count. But don’t worry, Mercury has stepped up to claim two records previously held by Pluto. Mercury is about 4878km in diameter, making it the smallest planet in the solar system. It also has the most eccentric orbit around the Sun. At its closest orbital proximity to the Sun, Mercury is about 47 million kilometres away from it, while its furthest elliptical path can take it up to 70 million kilometres away.

MERCURY The Romans named this planet after their speedy messenger god Mercury, whose attributes were adopted from the Greek god Hermes as it was the fastest moving planet across the night sky. Hermes was so fast he was even depicted as having wings on his feet! The

MIM EIRE

SPACE: MERCURY & VENUS

“there are areas at both its north and south poles that remain in permanent shadow”

EIRE

ICE ON MERCURY Although it seems counter intuitive, there is strong evidence to suggest the formation of ice on Mercury. This seems strange for the planet which orbits closest to the sun. It was first proposed that Mercury may be hiding ice when radar imaging of its surface revealed reflective areas but it was not initially known if these areas would be in constant shadow. Since then, the Messenger Spacecraft has revealed that there are areas at both its north and south poles that remain in permanent shadow, meaning the theory of ice on the planet is not too farfetched. MERCURY CONSPIRACY: MINING ON MERCURY According to ancient Sumerian texts, alien beings visited our solar system for the purpose of mining. The texts refer to the beings as gods who were apparently capable of flight, producing light etc. These beings were responsible for teaching the Sumerian people everything they knew and producing an advanced civilisation for the time. There are many conspiracy theorists who believe that evidence of this large scale mining operation may be littered throughout the solar system. There are some who believe that evidence for this mining operation in our solar system can be found in pictures released by NASA showing strange anomalies on the surface of Mercury which could be discarded mining equipment.

“Venus rotates on its axis in the opposite direction to the other planets in the solar system” VENUS Venus is named after the roman god of love and is often referred to as Earth’s sister or twin as it has a similar mass and diameter. While there are similarities between Earth and Venus, there are also stark contrasts. Venus has a harsh and thick atmosphere comprised mainly of carbon dioxide. It is also extremely hot and has clouds of sulphuric acid. The pressure on the surface is about 90 times that of Earth, meaning any human standing on the planet would be crushed. Earths “evil” twin may be a more appropriate title for Venus. With all those obstacles standing in the way of our exploration of Venus, it is surprising that there have been many successful probes sent to the planet and even colour pictures sent back from the surface. Let’s move on to the facts and conspiracies concerning Earths twin.

MIM EIRE

VENUS ROTATES BACKWARDS Venus rotates on its axis in the opposite direction to the other planets in the solar system. The only other planets to stake similar claims are Uranus and Pluto. However, Uranus technically rotates on its side since its axis is almost tilted horizontally and Pluto is no longer considered a planet, leaving Venus to step up and claim the title as the only planet to do this. I’m beginning to feel sorry for Pluto since Mercury & Venus have stolen so much of its thunder. DAYS LONGER THAN YEARS A year is the amount of time a planet takes to complete an orbit of the Sun and a day is the time it takes a planet to rotate on its axis. A year on Venus is only 225 Earth days long, however a day there is 244 Earth days long so a day on Venus is actually longer than a year. VENUS CONSPIRACY - COMMANDER VALIANT THOR According to Dr Frank E. Stranges PhD, Valiant Thor came from an underground civilisation on Venus. When Dr Stranges first met Commander Thor, he noted that his skin was soft and smooth like a lady or a baby but his grip was like a man’s. While on Earth, he was brought to the White House to talk with both Dwight Eisenhower and Richard Nixon where he offered to tell them how human beings could live without poverty, sickness or death. This offer was turned down due to the fact that it would have ruined the economy. Dr Stranges claims Commander Valiant Thor went back to Venus in his spaceship on March 16th 1960.

Mim: How very interesting, although we really wouldn’t fancy a 5 day work week on Venus! Thanks Philip!

! e m o H

Soulful indie books that deserve a place on your bookshelf!

Visit us at zebrainatophatpress.com 27

COMICS ARE A SPECIAL ART FORM THAT WE WANT TO CELEBRATE. THIS ISSUE WE FEATURE AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY, SOME DRUNKEN PORTLANDERS AND A SURREAL POODLE INDUCED COMA...

MIM

COMICS

MIM

COMICS: MARYANNA HOGGATT

MARYANNA

HOGGATT

U.S.

WE JUST LOVE TO FIND NEW COMICS WITH REFRESHING CONTENT AND IMAGES AND BOY DID WE FIND THAT WITH MARYANNA HOGGATT’S ‘ADULT BABYSITTING’! WE CATCH UP WITH HER TO DISCUSS CHILDHOOD, BOOZE & COLLABORATION...

“Drunk adults are hilarious (I mean, you HAVE to have a sense of humor in this line of work). I often find myself laughing while I draw” MIM: CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND? MH: I’ve been drawing as long as I can remember. When I was three or four, I saw a man drawing a creepy clown face and that was it for me. Later I was watching April O’ Neil making colored pencil drawings of all the Ninja Turtles (from the feature film), and that pretty much sealed my fate. I’m also a Navy Brat, which means I moved a lot. Most of my life was spent in the deserts of Arizona, but I moved to the extremely green / wet city of Portland, Oregon for art school. Both of these environments have had a significant impact on the direction of my work. MIM: YOU HAVE A NEW COMIC, ADULT BABYSITTING. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THIS? MH: As a kid I read tons of comics, mostly of the non super hero variety - Calvin & Hobbes, the Far Side, The Adventures of Ralph Snart, Archie Comics, Cracked & Mad etc and have become a big fan of contemporary graphic novels. But I never thought I had the patience for making sequential art myself. Dabbling in auto-bio comics opened the door. My first comic, Adult Babysitting, is about my night job. I’ve tended bar at the same neighborhood joint for almost five years. Drunk adults are hilarious (I mean, you HAVE to have a sense of humor in this line of work). I often find myself laughing while I draw.

MIM U.S.

“I’m mostly a hand-to-paper artist, using ink & brush and watercolors and Dr. Martin’s waterproof color inks”

she tapped me to collaborate with her for an art show. It was the most basic, organic process possible. We each drew half of six different drawings, then traded. No rules really. Despite our very different styles, the drawings meshed well together with often surprising results. Nature, patterns and animals were common themes. MIM: WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE A CHILD?

MIM: CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ILLUSTRATION AND THE TECHNIQUE YOU USE?

MH: An artist. Always and forever.

MH: My art is a bit of a two-headed beast. I’ve been showing in Portland galleries for the last few years and my work in that realm tends to be centered around nature and patterns. It’s usually very moody and atmospheric, with lots of little symbolisms - skulls, eyeballs, hands, creatures etc. My comic and editorial work is the opposite - loose lines, brightly colored, and lots of humor. I’m mostly a hand-to-paper artist, using ink & brush and watercolors and Dr. Martin’s waterproof color inks. I’ll sometimes polish a drawing in Photoshop. For my comics I’ll do more digital coloring with a Wacom tablet.

MIM: FINALLY, WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR YOU? MH: I’m currently working on Volume II of Adult Babysitting, with a third on the horizon. My first volume was self-published, but I’m looking for a publisher.

Mim: We LOVE this girls style and humour! We’ll be following this one wherever she goes. Thanks Maryanna!

MIM: YOU HAVE COLLABORATION DRAWINGS. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THESE? MH: Ahh yes. I met Brooke Weeber through the magic of the Internet, but she’s also a pretty well connected Illustrator in Portland. After some time 31

www.maryannahoggatt.com

SCRAPPY

SCRAPPY IS A BITTERSWEET, AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL COMIC BROUGHT TO YOU BY MIM REGULAR, MELISSA MENDES. READ ON, SILVER TIGER...

MIM

COMICS: MELISSA MENDES - SCRAPPY

U.S.

www.mmmendes.com 32

MIM

POODLE ON MY

NOODLE

EIRE U.K.

MISHI ENCOUNTERS A SURREAL POODLE PARTY! PART THREE OF THE BERSERK WORLD OF MISHI BY MIM’S OWN, BAUBIE SUNSHINE!

www.baubiesunshine.com 33

DEBUT ALBUM OUT NOW

“Draw! is a great album.” Eamonn Dowd & The Racketeers “With all of Draws’ multi-instrumentation, one is reminded of Dylan’s legendary sidemen The Band.” Mary Dennehy, Life Magazine “Draw! is the musical feast that The Aluskas have long promised… one of the albums of the year” Jack Valentine, Make It Mag “Draw is a great piece of work… compulsive listening. Cover to cover, I LOVE it.” Mick Grasby, SuperFan

WE LOVE BOOKS SO MUCH, THEY MAKE US GO BANANAS. THIS ISSUE WE FEATURE A SPAGHETTI LOVING KID AND A WHOLE GANG LOAD OF CATS!

MIM

BOOKS

AMY BLACKWELL CATS SEEM TO INSPIRE A LOT OF THINGS. IF THEY INSPIRE YOU OR IF YOU JUST LOVE THEM THEN YOU’LL LOVE THE BEAUTIFUL NEW WORDLESS BOOK BY AMY BLACKWELL, A POCKETFULL OF BLACK CATS. WE CATCH UP WITH HER TO TALK ALL ABOUT IT...

“I love cats and I love drawing them because they’re such funny creatures”

MIM

BOOKS: AMY BLACKWELL

ENGLAND

MIM

MIM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND? AMY: I’m a doodler based in the midlands. I grew up in Derby and moved over to Nottingham for art related study purposes and I never got round to leaving. I’m a knitter and crocheter so when I’m not drawing I’m usually playing with yarn, teasing cats with it, etc.

ENGLAND

MIM: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR NEW ILLUSTRATED BOOK, A POCKETFULL OF BLACK CATS? AMY: It’s a collection of cat characters you can carry round with you. The book has got 26 cats in black and white pictures. Some are dressed up in silly clothes and some aren’t. I love cats and I love drawing them because they’re such funny creatures. They all have different personalities and attitudes, bordering on human - some of them daft and playful. Some of them more on the sinister side or solitary and thoughtful. This book brings a team of them together. MIM: WHO OR WHAT INFLUENCES YOU? AMY: My cat is a big influence. Going for a walk around town or further afield is a great way to clear your head. I live in a city so it’s always good to immerse yourself in your surroundings. I like window shopping and picking up ideas on the go. I also like to do things that give you room to brew up new ideas, like working with wool or fabric. I spend a lot of time sketching and listening to plays on the radio too. I love listening to stories.

“maybe I’ll do a book with one word, then two, and go from there” MIM: WHAT TECHNIQUES DO YOU USE TO CREATE YOUR ILLUSTRATIONS? AMY: For my prints I start out with doodles and drawings done by hand and then use a computer to add colours and play around with layouts. Sometimes I play with paints - it all depends on the finish I’m after. MIM: DO YOU THINK THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL IN A BOOK WITH NO WORDS? AMY: I do. I’m very fond of picture books. The simpler the better sometimes. And when I’m “reading” magazines or papers, I’ll be honest; I’m usually just looking at the pictures. I’m not very confident yet with my writing, I go over what I’ve written too much and lose patience and get distracted. One day though I’ll start adding text - maybe I’ll do a book with one word, then two, and go from there. MIM: IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANY PERSON, LIVING OR DEAD, REAL OR FICTIONAL. WITH WHOM WOULD IT BE AND WHY? AMY: Probably Poirot or Miss Marple. I would have to get a room full of people though because someone always dies after (or during) dinner when they’re invited and I don’t like the odds if it’s just me. MIM: WHAT NEXT ON THE HORIZON FOR YOU, AMY? AMY: I’m really enjoying painting at the moment and I want to knuckle down and build up a collection of pictures that tell a story. As a side project I’ve set myself a mission to improve my sewing skills, because right now they’re rubbish.

Mim: We also believe that there’s something special in a wordless book. This one is very special indeed! Thanks Amy. 37

http://www.etsy.com/shop/blackoutwell

NANCY VALA

MIM

BOOKS: NANCY VALA

EVERYBODY LIKES TO RECALL A TIME IN THEIR LIFE WHEN THEY FELT SECURE AND HAPPY AND FOR LUCETTE, IT’S WHEN HER DAD MAKES HER SPAGHETTI! WE CATCH UP WITH NANCY VALA TO CHAT ABOUT HER BEAUTIFUL NEW BOOK...

“Simple childhood rituals - being wrapped in a towel, a bedtime story - bring a sense of security and love”

U.S.

MIM

MIM: WHO IS NANCY VALA? NANCY: My major in college was Writing & Illustrating for Children’s Literature but I never did anything with it until now. I thought it was too frivolous and turned my back on it. I’ve worked as a graphic designer, newspaper artist, Illustrator, book designer and writer and had kids of my own so maybe the blend of skills, knowledge, confidence and timing is finally right.

U.S.

MIM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR BOOK, LUCETTE SPAGHETTI? NANCY: Lucette is based on the childhood of my friend Donna Carins. She grew up on Long Island in an Italian family. Like Lucette, she always took a bath on Saturday night and looked forward to meatballs and spaghetti for Sunday dinner. Simple childhood rituals - being wrapped in a towel, a bedtime story - bring a sense of security and love. And Lucette is a free spirit!

“I’m also a book designer so I was able to do everything from design to production” MIM: WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU? NANCY: I love all the old fairy tales and their illustrators: Arthur Rackham, Edmund Dulac, Aubrey Beardsley. Treasure Island and N.C. Wyeth’s illustrations. The geniuses of colour: Matisse, Kandinsky, Gauguin. Or just a faded cigarette package on the sidewalk. MIM: WHAT TECHNIQUE DID YOU USE TO CREATE THE ILLUSTRATIONS? NANCY: The illustrations are done with Adobe Illustrator, a vector graphics program. It’s basically connecting the dots, bending lines and filling in colour. I’ve used it for a long time so I can start my sketch on the computer and then refine it. I’m also a book designer so I was able to do everything from design to production. I’ve recently gone back to oils and watercolors but my favorite tools are just a pencil and paper. MIM: YOU ALSO HAVE PAPER DOLLS OF LUCETTE. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THESE? NANCY: When I was 11 or 12 years old I was the go-to person for handmade paper dolls. Friends of friends would see them and want their own set. So it’s come full circle! For the Lucette paper dolls I was inspired by the 1950s Betsy McCall paper dolls that come with a little story. There will be a new Lucette paper doll set every month. MIM: WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE AS A CHILD? NANCY: I dreamed about being a passenger on the train that ran through our back yard -- I just wanted to get out of town!

Mim: We love Nancy’s simple and happy style, it’s make us smile. thanks Nancy!

http://walkingsatellite.blogspot.ie/p/walking-satellite-books.html

ADVERTISE WITH US!

AD?

HERE! GREAT INTRODUCTORY FULL PAGE AD OFFERS! CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS ON: MAKEITMAG@GMAIL.COM / SUBJECT: ADVERTISE 40

MIM

FASHION

EIRE

OH WE DO LOVE A GOOD FROCK! THIS ISSUE, WE CHECK OUT KATARINA COUTURE AND THOSE AMAZING VINTAGE INSPIRED HATS!

MIM

FASHION: KATARINA COUTURE

KATARINA

SWEDEN

COUTURE WE LOVE HATS HERE AT MIM AND HAVE BEEN SEARCHING THE GLOBE FOR SOME SERIOUS MILLINER TALENT. KATARINA COUTURE STOOD OUT TO US WITH HER SERIOUSLY CLASSIC PIECES WITH A MODERN EDGE...

“Katarina Couture is vintage inspired, modern hats. I want my hats to be wearable with todays clothing”

MIM

MIM: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BACKGROUND? KAT: I was born and raised in Sweden. I ALWAYS knew I wanted to move abroad, and after travelling in Europe and South America I arrived in New York. I loved it immediately and I knew this is where I wanted to live. I started studying Fashion Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology, but got side-tracked and ended up pursuing a college degree in Film Production instead. I worked for several years on movies doing camera work, and it was fun for a while. However, what I really like to do is make things, so I started taking Millinery classes at FIT, and after selling my first hat I was hooked.

SWEDEN

MIM: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE KATARINA COUTURE? KAT: Katarina Couture is vintage inspired, modern hats. I want my hats to be wearable with todays clothing. MIM: WHY HATS AND WHAT OR WHO IS YOUR INSPIRATION? KAT: I love making hats because there are so many techniques and materials to work with. My favorites are felt, leather, fur and silk. The history behind hats also fascinates me. Everything and anything can be my inspiration: movies, fashion, people and New York City. There are so many cultures co-existing here. I walk downstairs and it is all right in front of me!

“All traditional hats can be made from the same block, just turned upside down and sideways in different combinations” MIM: CAN YOU DISCUSS YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS? WHERE DO YOU START WHEN YOU WANT TO DESIGN A NEW PIECE? KAT: Blocked felt and straw hat styles are restricted by the shape of your hat blocks. A hat block is a block of wood shaped like a crown and a brim. The felt body gets steamed and dried on the blocks, and that is how it gets its shape. I don’t own many, so I try to come up with different styles just based on my hat blocks. I think this is what all milliners do and have always done. All traditional hats can be made from the same block, just turned upside down and sideways in different combinations. Sewn fabric hats have more possibilities and I love designing hat patterns. I try to figure out in my head what the pattern should look like to result in the style I’m imagining. Then I start to draft patterns and make samples in different fabrics with different interlinings to get the result I want. This can take weeks or months! When I am pretty happy with the result I usually let it rest for a while, and then I go back and work on it some more and even more. It is not finished until it is exactly what I want it to be. MIM: IF YOU COULD TRADE PLACES WITH ANY OTHER PERSON FOR A WEEK, FAMOUS OR NOT, LIVING OR DEAD, REAL OR FICTIONAL, WITH WHOM WOULD IT BE AND WHY? KAT: If I could trade places with any other person for a week, I should probably say some wise historical woman, but it would be Steve Jobs. It seems he spent his time imagining what kind of toys he would want, had them made and found we all want them too. His vision is changing the world. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TUNNEL MILL

Mim: We love the vintage feel of these hats, so classic! Thanks Katarina!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/katarinacouture

MIM SHOP GRE AT I

DY! BO RY

S F T O F RE I G E VE I D N

T K OU GE OF C E CH T RAN LINE A N E O R G ES OUR GOODI ME AT: P I E O INDI L THE T OM/SH L C . A G ITMA E K MA

MAG

MIM

FILM WE LOVE A GOOD FILM HERE AT MIM. THIS ISSUE WE FEATURE AN ANIMATED BALLOON SELLER AND THE DAY HIS LIFE CHANGED FOREVER...

WE HAVE BEEN SHOCKED BY THE STANDARD OF TALENT TO BE FOUND IN STUDENT FILMMAKING. WE SEE SO MUCH PROMISE IN ANIMATION STUDENT, NADIA BENCHRIH AND WE CHAT WITH HER ABOUT HER NEW FILM, LOLA...

“One day he draws a face on one of his balloons to cheer himself up and his life will never be the same”

MIM

NADIA BENCHRIH

NETHERLANDS

FILM: LOLA

MIM

MIM: CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND? NADIA: I was born and raised in the Netherlands, but both my parents have their roots in different countries so I’m a bit of everything. Currently I’m studying animation at the Willem de Kooning Academy in Rotterdam. After the summer holidays I’ll be in my 3rd year.

NETHERLANDS

MIM: YOU’VE CREATED A SHORT ANIMATION, LOLA. WHAT IS IT ABOUT? NADIA: It’s about a lonely balloon seller, Bruno. His one true love is his job selling balloons. He loves to make people happy with a simple balloon, but most of the people that buy his balloons are happy couples and while he loves seeing happy people it also reminds him that he still hasn’t found his love. One day he draws a face on one of his balloons to cheer himself up and his life will never be the same. MIM: WHAT INSPIRES YOU? NADIA: I guess almost everything around me. I tend to look at random people on the streets a lot. It’s funny how they all walk differently, sometimes I sit outside and sketch them. Besides that, other animators and illustrators inspire me. For the most part I look at other, not very known, artists that I find online. I like watching animations on Vimeo, there’s a never ending source of great animations on there. Some of my first inspirations from my childhood are the Disney movie Fantasia (1940) and the illustrations of Dutch artist Fiep Westendorp. I still look up to them. MIM: HOW DID YOU MAKE THIS FILM? NADIA: I began writing down different ideas and situations and sketching on paper, I generally find that easier. I also sketch using Photoshop. I use Photoshop for almost everything besides animation. For the animation part I used Toonboom, but one of my goals for this summer is to start learning TVPaint, a different 2D animation program. This was also the first time I did the sound myself. I did some small sound effects before but this time I did all of the sound design and the Foley myself. It was a nice experiment but sadly I don’t have a very good sound recorder. I did it all at home. I plan to redo the sounds one day in a studio. The voice of Lola is done by me and Bruno’s voice is done by my boyfriend.

Check out Nadia’s film, Lola by clicking play below.

“Animation only extends my possibilities and doesn’t exclude illustration!” PLAY MIM: WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT ANIMATION? NADIA: I really enjoy the storytelling part. Creating my own stories and also designing the characters. Directing and designing are two very different parts of animation. I also love seeing my characters come to life when I animate them. I prefer animating characters over still objects; I found I very easily identify and bond with my characters. So I guess you could say I enjoy almost the whole process of making a film. It’s only the cleaning that makes me want to throw my computer out of the window sometimes! MIM: WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE A CHILD? NADIA: I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember. I always knew I wanted to do something creative. I always wanted to be a children’s book author and illustrator. Even in elementary school I was always trying to write and illustrate my own stories. I had a dream of becoming the youngest author, sadly that never happened, haha. It wasn’t until my senior year in High School that I knew I wanted to study animation. Initially I wanted to study illustration but I had some doubts about the job opportunities I would have then. That’s when I started to look around to see what other studies art academies had and that’s how I came across animation. I always loved animated films but growing up I didn’t see myself animating because I didn’t even know the study existed. After that I went to visit different art academies to see what their animation study would be like and that’s when I was sure that that was what I wanted to do. Animation only extends my possibilities and doesn’t exclude illustration!

Mim: We fell in love with this sweet little film. We can’t wait for the next one, thanks Nadia!

MIM: FINALLY, ARE THERE ANY MORE FILMS IN THE PIPELINE? NADIA: I definitely will be making more films. I’m actually already working on a new film together with my boyfriend Joost Rutten, who is also an animator and digital artist. In the coming year I’ll probably be experimenting more with 3D in addition to 2D. Besides film making I still enjoy drawing and I still plan on making children’s books and illustrations. Also next year one of my short animations will be available to see on the big screen outside of Ahoy, a big event hall here in Rotterdam. 47

Cranium Kid the boy of the head

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY & GET A FREE BROOCH OR MAGNET! YIPPEE! 48

WE LOVE THE ART OF HANDMADE HERE AT MIM SO WE HAVE PICKED OUR FAVOURITES OF THE MOMENT FOR GROWN UPS AND MUNCHKINS. THERE’S SO MANY SUPER UNIQUE AND LOVABLE THINGS OUT THERE, MADE WITH SO MUCH LOVE! ♥

MIM

HANDMADE

MIM

HANDMADE

ENGLAND

Miniature Houses by F Snow Collect an entire village! €5 / $6

Candy Pink Chevron Knickers by Christina Ruth, Tasty! €25 / $30

Ceramic Flower Pot by Werkstaat Jazz up your balcony! €31 / $38

Steampunk Birdie Pendant by Wirewrapped It’s one of a kind! €50 / $64 50

EIRE

Hummingbird Pillow Case by Myrte Birdyful! €33 / $40

FINLAND

Green Glass Earring Studs by Crafts By Me How nice are these! €17.50 / $22

NETHERLANDS

Klimoppe Paper Wall Lamp by Studio Snowpuppe. Comes in a range of fab colours! €109 / $140

EIRE

GERMANY

SWEDEN

NETHERLANDS

EIRE

FROM BIRDIE PILLOW CASES TO COSY SLIPPERS, THESE ARE OUR MOST FAVOURITE HANDMADE ITEMS FOR GROWN UPS. EVERY SINGLE ITEM IS CLICKABLE, BUYABLE AND OWNABLE!

Little White Rain Cloud Brooch by Shiny Jane A felted friend for your raincoat! €18 / $23

Crochet Slippers by Aimankaki So scrummy! €16 / $19

MIM

MUNCHKINS

SCOTLAND

Eco Lunch Sack by Little Lark. Stylish and recycled! €18 / $22

Carousel Necklace by Gossimar Wings. So pretty! €23 / $28

Original Plush Toys by Poosac. He’s friendly! €51 / $65

Orion Wool Slippers by The Felting Cat Get those dogs cosy! €15 / $19 51

U.S.

Alberto Tulsa Miniature Brooch by Baubie Sunshine. Cute! €6 / $7.50

SCOTLAND

Corduroy Cap by Kokoko. Also comes in black! €20 / $24

AUSTRALIA

Crochet Hooded Baby Blanket by Mikmakwinkel. Super snuggley! €46 / $59

GERMANY

EIRE

RUSSIA

NETHERLANDS

U.S.

THE VERY BEST OF HANDMADE AND INDIE FOR CHILDREN FROM AROUND THE GLOBE!

Up Up & Away Wall Decal by Love Mae. Perfect for a bedroom wall! €85 / $105

Happy Face by Herman Marie He’ll make you smile! €30 / $36

WWW.B AU BIE S UN S HI N E . C O M

MIM

EDIBLES SCRUM-DIDDLEY-UMPTIOUS RECIPIES STRAIGHT FROM NANNY’S KITCHEN! THIS ISSUE NANNY BAKES HER WONDEROUS LEMON MERINGUE PIE & SUMMER LEMON SUGAR PANCAKES AND SHE ALSO DETAILS ALL YOU NEED AND DON’T NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THOSE BITTER YELLOW FRUITS...

MIM

EDIBLES: BAKING WITH NANNY

BAKING WITH

NANNY

EIRE

“This pie is crunchy and gooey, sweet and tart!” NANNY’S LEMON MERINGUE PIE INGREDIENTS: PASTRY: PLAIN FLOUR (175g / 6oz) ICING SUGAR (15g / 1/2oz) BUTTER (75g / 3oz) 1 FREE RANGE EGG YOLK 1 TABLESPOON OF WATER

MERINGUE: CASTER SUGAR (120g / 4.5oz) 3 FREE RANGE EGG WHITES

LEMON CURD: 2 LARGE LEMONS CORNFLOUR (40g / 1.5oz) WATER (300ml / 10fl oz) CASTER SUGAR (75g / 3oz) 2 FREE RANGE EGG YOLKS

“Serve cold on a hot summer’s day!” METHOD: Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F. Step 2: Add flour and sugar to a bowl and rub in butter to make breadcrumbs. Add egg yolk and water and work into a firm dough. Wrap in cling film and put in fridge for 30 mins. Step 3: On a floured surface, roll out dough and line a 9 inch flan tin. Prick the pastry, line with greaseproof paper, fill with baking beans and bake blind for 20 mins, removing beans for the last 5 mins. Once baked turn oven down to 150°C / 300°F Step 4: Add the grated rinds and juice from the lemons into a bowl, blend in cornflour. Bring water to the boil then stir in the cornflour mixture. Simmer until it forms a custard. Mix egg yolks and sugar together and stir into the custard. Remove from heat. Step 5: For the meringue, whisk the egg whites in a large bowl until they form stiff peaks. Add the sugar in a tsp at a time, whisking at high speed after each addition. Step 6: Add lemon curd to the pastry and cover completely with meringue, no gaps! Step 7. Bake at the lower temp for 45 mins or until the meringue is crisp and pale beige. 54

ose b I help n

LEMONS Lemons grow on evergreen trees & have their origins in Asia. They are rich in Vitamin C, a powerful anti-oxidant which helps to eliminate free radicals in the body. Lemon juice is highly anti-bacterial and can be used as a household cleaner, great at removing grime and stains on work surfaces. When lemon juice is soaked into a cotton ball and applied directly to the nose it has been known to stop nosebleeds!

leeds!

MIM

“Lemon juice is highly anti-bacterial”

NANNY SUMS UP LEMONS

EIRE

OTHER THINGS CALLED LEMON Mount Lemmon is the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains, located in Arizona, United States The River Lemon is a 16-km-long river in the county of Devon in south-west England Mr. Lemon of Orange (1931) is a comedy film starring El Brendel and Fifi D’Orsay Bob Lemon was an American right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball AN INTERESTING FACT ABOUT LEMONS During the era of Louis XIV, women used lemons to redden their lips.

“My lemon & sugar pancakes are zingy and fluffy!” NANNY’S LEMON & SUGAR PANCAKES INGREDIENTS: SELF RAISING FLOUR (185g / 6.5oz) BUTTERMILK (250ML / 8.5fl oz) MELTED BUTTER (60g / 2.1oz) BAKING POWDER (1 tsp) CASTER SUGAR (2 tbsp) 2 FREE RANGE EGGS BEATEN TINY DROP OF MILK

“ Who doesn’t love pancakes, seriously who?” METHOD: Step 1: In a bowl mix together the flour, baking powder and sugar. Step 2: In a separate large bowl add eggs, buttermilk, butter and milk and mix together. Step 3: Add the dry to the wet ingredients and beat with a wooden spoon or blender until smooth with no lumps. Step 4: Put a frying pan onto a medium heat and fry your pancakes one at a time a minute or so on each side or until golden. Any left over mix can be stored in the fridge until later. Step 5: When pancakes are hot, sprinkle over sugar, squeeze some lemon and add a bit of butter and eat!

mim: Yum Yum, Nanny we’re drooling! 55

QUESTIONS FOR

OUR AGONY AUNT MIGHT BE A CANINE BUT SHE CERTAINLY LOVES TO GIVE ADVICE. THIS ISSUE, COMET DEALS WITH YOUR RELATIONSHIP WOES.

COMET There comes a time in everybody’s life when you have to throw away the squeaky toys, safety blankets and training pads and start to consider putting yourself onto the market for possible consideration in the relationship world. Don’t get me wrong, this is not as easy or necessary as it sounds, but with my advice you may or may not be able to, or want to, strike up a relationship with somebody, or nobody depending on your standpoint.

“You’re not going to find anybody hiding behind the fridge or squeezed under the couch”

ALICE: HI COMET, I REALLY WANT A BOYFRIEND. WHAT CLOTHES SHOULD I WEAR TO ATTRACT ONE?

Well first things first Alice, I don’t wear clothes so my advice here is negligible but I’m gonna give it anyway. I’ve noticed that round about every June or July I get my whole body shaved in preparation for the hot days of summer ahead, so you might want to try that, or else just throw something nice on.

MARTIN: I’M PAINFULLY SHY AND DON’T REALLY WANT TO GO OUT. WHERE AM I SUPPOSED TO MEET SOMEONE COMET?

You’re not going to find anybody hiding behind the fridge or squeezed under the couch Martin. You gotta get out there. You really have to leave the house. Otherwise you could not possibly expect this to work. Now, I think fields are the best place to hook up. The early morning and lunch hours are fine but there can be a lot of people around and they are always ready to break up anything they don’t agree with, so my advice to you is go out at night. Act curious and alert.

MIM

AGONY AUNT: Q’S FOR COMET

EIRE

MIM

BOB: COMET, HOW SHOULD I SMELL IF I WANT TO ATTRACT A MATE INTO MY LIFE?

Hi Bob, you might wanna think about giving off or producing some kind of musk or pheromone to entice members of the opposite (or same) sex. This will increase your odds greatly. My motto for this is “warm and stinky”.

EIRE

“Go straight to the area of their body that gives off the most repugnant scent and sniff franticly”

CINDY: HI COMET, I DON’T THINK ANYONE WILL LIKE ME FOR WHO I AM. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Make yourself appear whatever you’re not Cindy, if you think this is what somebody else will like. Take me for example, I like to come across as someone important, tall and friendly. At these early stages, honesty is the enemy.

PAM: OK COMET, I HAVE A DATE. NOW WHAT?

If you happen to lure somebody into your immediate area using the steps above, that’s half the battle. But you don’t want to lose them now Pam. Go straight to the area of their body that gives off the most repugnant scent and sniff franticly. Start with the ass moving swiftly on to genitalia (boner). If they wanna get all up in your face because of this, fine, throw down, nibble his neck and ears a bit, shout right in his face, I mean as close as you can to his face. He will respect this and understand that he has to put up with this kind of behaviour if he wants to get with you.

ORLA: I’M WORRIED I WON’T STAND OUT! WHAT SHOULD I DO ON A SECOND DATE TO KEEP HIS INTEREST COMET?

You can’t win every war, besides you wanted this war Orla. With your chin nestled on the grass, point your rear end skyward and pat yourself on the back, you just succeeded over many other rivals that day. Trapping a mate can be difficult, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you too can have sex in a field at night.

Mim: If you are inclined to take advice from dogs we cannot be held responsible for the canineinspired madness that ensues! Thanks Comet!

! K IC

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ISSUE 3: JULY / AUGUST 2012 Editor: Maggie Stills Sub Editor: Animal Kovax Illustration / Layout / Design: Baubie Sunshine Contributors (Issue 3): Jack Valentine (Music), Philip Tinsley (Space), Melissa Mendes (Comics), Nanny (Edibles), Comet (Agony Aunt) Published by Zebra In A Top Hat Press Cat No: MIM003 Text and Illustrations Copyright owned by MIM / Zebra In A Top Hat Press ℗ & © &☺2012. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior permission from the Editor / Illustrator / Publisher. www.makeitmag.com www.zebrainatophatpress.com

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