Escape To The Chateaux Hits Home in the UK

Amanda Howse
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Escape To The Chateaux Hits Home in the UK

Angel Strawbridge stars with her husband Dick Strawbridge and their two small children Arthur and Dorothy in the popular Channel 4 television series ‘Escape to the Châteaux’.

She is following the success of the ‘fly on the wall’ style reality series with her own home furnishings range that is now available and currently selling in Sainsburys and Next stores and online retailers in the UK.

The collection includes fabric, cushions, bedding, wallpaper, curtains, lighting, candles, fragrance and home accessories and is based on Angel’s original designs and colours from the beautiful rooms that she has decorated in the fairytale 19th century castle Chateau de La Motte Husson.

Next and Argos are great choices for purchasing the bedding and home accessories items. Just Fabrics is a good place to source all the furnishing elements of this collection online and there are 4 main patterns to choose from all inspired by the French architecture and landscape in their monumental home in the Pays de la Loire in north-western France.

“Angel’s love of oriental design is at the heart of this stunning collection. The prints herein have been inspired by blossom trees growing in their garden, bamboo plantation and Angel’s wide range of kimonos hanging in her wardrobe.” (1)

The design style of the pieces is botanical, feminine and retro with traditional colours and elegant feminine designs that are bound to appeal to a more traditional British customer. It is clear that Angel has wisely stuck to her vintage look and thrown in a welcome dash of art deco shapes that will certainly please many interiors enthusiasts.

A nod to historical Liberty and William Morris patterns without the high price tag, this pretty assortment will enable more people in Great Britain to enjoy an elegant taste of the living like royalty, whatever the size of their own English country manors.

(1) ‘Escape to the Chateau’s Angel Strawbridge launches interiors range’ Lisa Walden, House Beautiful, 19 May 2019 www.housebeautiful.com

Just Fabrics UK supplier Angel Strawbridge at Just Fabrics

Next UK supplier Angel Strawbridge at Next

Argos UK supplier Angel Strawbridge at Argos

Home of Escape to the Chateaux Official Strawbridge Chateaux website

Zandra celebrates 50 years and promotes British Designers

Amanda Howse
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Zandra celebrates 50 years and promotes British Designers

Zandra Rhodes DBE has been successfully leading her fashion house and making and selling couture textiles for 50 years. To celebrate this impressive achievement Rhodes is displaying a wonderful retrospective exhibition that features a catwalk of more than 50 wearable creations and a rainbow of 30 beautiful fabric designs.

Zandra Lindsay Rhodes was born in Chatham in Kent and opened her first clothes shop on the Fulham Road in London. Rhodes first own collection was created in 1969 and focusing on printed textiles. Her degree was from the Royal Collage of Art where she specalised in printed textiles. During the 1970’s and 1980’s her clothes were worn by the rich and famous in Europe and America and were inspired by the punk era. In 1974 Rhodes is awarded Royal Designer for Industry. (2)

During the 1990’s her popularity continued and Rhodes continued to be inspired by her travels globally. In the 2000’s projects for the theatre enables Zandra to use her knowledge of luxurious fabrics and keen imagination to invent eye-catching costumes for stage productions and opera.

The highlights from a career devoted to colourful and innovative decorative design can be seen in ‘Zandra Rhodes 50 Years of Fabulous’ at the museum Rhodes created in the capitol The Fashion and Textile Museum at 83 Bermondsay Street, London, SE1 3XF

Several spotlit rooms are filled with mannequins wearing theatrical handmade outfits by Rhodes. They tell the story of her design development through the decades. Each piece is individual and elaborate and many different techniques and materials are used to create the stunning ensembles.

“Her prints were Pop Art-infused commentaries on the world of Sixties Britain; the designer felt that there was inherent structure within the pattern that could work with and enhance the shape and construction of a dress. With this concept as a starting point and with her distinctive approach to cut and form, the house of Zandra Rhodes soon became one of the most recognisable labels in London.” (1)

Another dark dramatic space is filled with large silk panels hung from the ceiling on horizontal wooden poles, each one is hand printed with a unique and intricate pattern on a different tinted slightly transparent fabric hanging.

This leads to a large bright studio space where Zandra’s large hand drawings and paintings are displayed. A film shown on a loop which showcases Rhodes inspiration, methodology and some of her favourite designs being produced. The short documentary gives a personal and detailed account of her journey to become one of the worlds most acclaimed fashion designers.

The prolific London designer explains her process which starts with her fine sketchbook drawings. Rhodes is a master of hand silk printing uasing skills she has developed throughout her illustrious career. Organic and geometric shapes and careful construction are also a key part of her design development and work flow.

Rhodes describes how she feels that British fashion designers are underrated in society. She believes passionately that London fashion designers often have great influence on the rest of the world. Zandra thinks this important export should be properly celebrated and she found and opened the London Fashion and Textiles Museum to allow a public space to be provided. This enables other important textile artists and up and coming fashion designers to use the gallery space to promote the high quality work that is created in Great Britain and the UK.

The show began on the 27th September 2019 and ends on 26th January 2020. The museum is open every day apart from Mondays and times are from 11 to 6pm or 5pm on Sundays. An adult ticket is £9.90 and concessions are available.

 

References:

(1) Fashion and Textile Museum ‘Zandra Rhodes: 50 Years of Fabulous’ 6 Jan 2020

https://www.ftmlondon.org/ftm-exhibitions/zandra-rhodes-fifty-years-of-fabulous/

(2) Exhibition catalogue ‘Zandra Rhodes 50 Years of Fabulous’ for the Fashion and Textiles Museum. September 2019

Passenger arrested after guard confiscates sword

Amanda Howse
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Passenger arrested after guard confiscates sword

A brave southern Guard took a 3 foot sword from a passenger on Victoria train to London at 09:20 this morning.

The on board supervisor announced on the tannoy system to a train full of families and passengers on route to Christmas events and shopping in the capital that

“there was a problem with the doors at Horsham”

This town in Sussex is where the trains usually connect with extra carriages from the line that goes to the city from Bognor Regis.

The on board supervisor then said “the GPS equipment is malfunctioning and the doors would be operated manually instead at this time.”

The passenger was then arrested and handcuffed at Horsham station by two armed policemen dressed in black uniforms. The Bulldog the arrested man had with him on a lead was also taken off the train and looked after by one if the policeman on the platform.

The arrested man was calm but complaining and was escorted off the train with the guard still carrying the alarming silver coloured engraved weapon.

Then the on board supervisor used the tannoy system to explain to the passengers that

“the problem with the locked doors announcement was incorrect and there was actually no issue but that they had made the story up to help deal with an ‘incident’ that was now resolved.”

The passengers remained calm and the train continued to Victoria with no further problems and just a few minutes delay.

Cathedral Appeals for Help as Urgent Roof Renovation Costs Sky High

Amanda Howse
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Cathedral Appeals for Help as Urgent Roof Renovation Costs Sky High

As winter gales batter the south coast this week, Chichester Cathedral, in the medieval harbour city of West Sussex, appeals for donations to help pay for an urgently needed new roof. Wood boring beetles are destroying the wooden rafters and failing copper sheets cause concern that “fatigued copper panels could break free from their fixings.” (1)

This huge restoration project was started in 2018 and motivated by a five year inspection that produced the alarming conclusion that it was essential that the enormous cover of the famous church would need completely replacing.

“The roof appeal was launched by Dame Patricia Routledge.” (2) Religious leaders and the Cathedral’s management team are also appealing for help from businesses and the general public. This is in order to keep this fantastic spiritual centrepiece special and successful in terms of both form and function, for everyone to enjoy. Treasures at the Cathedral include a stunning Chagall window and a Roman mosaic floor.

After the second world war the original 13th century wooden beam roof was covered over with copper panels. The copper has a relatively short lifespan compared with some other construction materials that are used today but at a time of scare resources it was the best option available.

Now cracks can be found on the copper panels and the architects have designed a new lead roof which maintains the original look of the Cathedral and brings it up to standard to compare with other historic and very large and important ecclesiastical buildings in England. The wooden beams are being restored where possible using traditional techniques.

The project is underway in four phases in order to minimise interrupting the activities that happen in the church and get the best value from the cost of investing in the resources and materials required. The first phase location is undertaking the re-roofing of the Quire (the central area), followed by the South Transept, North Transept and the Nave. The covers of the first section have now been removed revealing the first part of the smart new roof.

“Chichester Cathedral has been a sacred place of worship for over nine centuries. Nowadays, the Cathedral welcomes over 350000 people each year and is also a visitor attraction, a venue for music and the arts, and all-round hub for the community.” (1)

“The Cathedral is entirely self-supporting relying on donations and fundraising activity.” (1)

The massive total cost of the roof improvements will be £5.8 million. Chichester Cathedral has received a £250000 grant from the First World War Cathedral Repair Fund to start the initial work but they are far from reaching the target figure and an urgent appeal has been launched.

To help ensure this beautiful and culturally important landmark is preserved for future generations to enjoy visit in person or donate online by visiting Chichester Cathedral Appeal

References:

(1) Cathedral appeal publicity material, Chichester Cathedral, West Sussex 5 December 2019

Chichester Cathedral Roof

(2) ‘Covers come off first section of Chichester Cathedral roof’ Adam Becket, Church Times 30 November 2018

Church Times

How Toxic is Your Natural Hair Dye?

Amanda Howse
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How Toxic is Your Natural Hair Dye?

It is a smart idea to avoid pollution and toxins wherever possible in order to keep fit and avoid falling sick and suffering any chronic diseases. Extreme sensitivity from using medications and cosmetic treatments can escalate into swelling that can be life threatening so steering clear from anything that could potentially be poisonous makes sense. Hair dyes are an example where the composition may contain many seriously harmful chemicals that are used in combination with inert and safe pigments.

One in three women and one in ten men regularly transform their hair colour in the United Kingdom every year. (1) They are looking to enjoy their favourite hue out the whole rainbow of shades that are available now order to dye, bleach and fix the colour into their shiny new locks. There is fierce competition in the market between beauty supplies companies to promote their long lasting stains and permanent tints that also easily and completely cover grey hair.

However even boxes with illustrations of fruits and herbs on the front, bought from a health food store, can contain formulas that could be considered carcinogenic.The faster you check if your hair treatment contains ingredients that can be detrimental and potentially dangerous to health, the quicker you can ensure you are informed and can make a choice about whether to go ahead and use these complex products.

In the UK boxes of colour transforming liquids are sold in all major supermarkets, pharmacies and online retailers. Men, women and young people wanting a new look can all decide to opt for purchasing less processed provisions with simple ‘back to basics’ ingredients.

In Europe it is law that ingredients in a product must be on the packaging and many items can be looked up quickly online using a search engine like google. You can search This will tell you if you should be considering a healthier alternative. Hair powders that permanently alter the shade of a persons crowning glory are available from specialist organic suppliers in the UK like Suvarna in a range of natural hues to suit everyone. (2)

Sophia Hussain at Eluxe Magazine discusses several of the most nasty chemicals in hair dye in more detail stating that “The most common and dangerous chemicals are probably PPDs (p-Phenylenediamine), which has been linked to bladder cancer, lung, kidney and nervous system disorders and even severe allergic reactions.”

Hussain’s article gives an excellent low down of 13 natural hair dyes. The only totally natural dyes recommended are Saach Organics (4) and Indus valley Organics (5) which are both available in the UK at reasonable prices.

The National Cancer Institute cites an America Journal of Epidemiology 2008 study that found “hair dye users had increased risks of both follicular lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia / small lymphocytic lymphoma” (2)

Thankfully organic beauty specialist companies can provide results without any negative side effects. The financial cost of these alternative treatments are very similar to conventional shop bought products. The purer the mixture that is applied to the head during the process is the better it is for the environment, as it will eventually be rinsed down the drain and into the mains water system.

Some totally natural semi-permanent hair dye is available pre-mixed. However the formulations for permanent colour to cover grey aren’t always as pre-processed so clients may need to mix the powders into the right consistency themselves before applying. To get the deepest and darkest colour results it may take 2 hours and need hair dryer heat to get the same effect as standard boxes of dye. One advantage with this routine is that the special ingredients will super condition the hair without damaging it in any way.

Another consideration is to get a hairdresser’s advice on the best time gap before swapping to 100% natural as not all the dyes mix well if the hair shaft has recently been chemically treated and if not careful this may cause unexpected colour results. With any liquid that is applied to the body and scalp it is important to do a patch test 48 hours before using on all your locks that are soon to be brightened and refreshed.

References:

(1) Hair Dyes and Cancer Risk, 20191106

National Cancer Institute, Hair Dyes and Cancer Risk

(2) Suvarna Organic Beauty Care, Tricia’s hair Care and Hair Dye Information Portal 20191106

Hair Care Information Portal

(3) Eluxe Magazine, 13 of the Best Natural Hair Dyes, Sophia Hussain 20191106

13 of the best natural hair dyes

(4) Saach Organics 20191106

Saach Organics

(5) Indus Valley Organics 20191106

Indus Valley Hair Colour

Look Great, Be Green and Go Veggie in 2020

Amanda Howse
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Look Great, Be Green and Go Veggie in 2020

Turning vegetarian is a big commitment and lifestyle change if you have been brought up to believe that all square meals consist of ‘meat and two veg’. There are many hundreds of delicious fruits, vegetables, pulses, grains and sources of protein to choose from if you are considering making the change in 2020.

Vegetarian cooking can be an exciting adventure into colourful new culinary experiences instead of being the dull option. Almost every country around the world has interesting non-meat foods and recipes so variety can still be the spice of life as a vegetarian. Thousands of inspiring recipes are available online and cookery books are written in every language and can still be found in local libraries.

Around 10 percent of Europeans are vegetarian and India has the highest percentage of people with plant based diets at 38%. (1) People choose to opt to eat purely healthy plants, grains and diary products in order to avoid eating animals for lots of different cultural reasons including concerns for animal welfare, avoiding unnecessary chemicals, religious reasons, financial constraints, improving health and conserving the environment.

Remember to eat plenty of protein to make up for the lack of meat. Eggs, beans, lentils, tofu, nuts and seeds are a good source. “Almonds, pistachios and cashews contain healthy fats too, and are perfect for snacking.” (2)

Iron is also important and can be found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach and also in tofu, dark chocolate and sweet potatoes. Zinc is essential and can be consumed by eating eggs and dairy and nuts and seeds. Expert Georgia Kiely advises to “Learn to love substitutes like lentils for mince meat, Quorn fillets for chicken fillets and beans for burger mince.” (2)

Millions of young people globally are passionate about sustainability and are keen to do their part to make the world a better place for everybody. “10 percent of children aged 8 to 16 are now vegan or vegetarian because of their concern for the environment and animal welfare.” (3)

It is not hard to understand why when you consider that “It takes 15400 litres of water to make 1 kilogram of beef – with 99% of that related to animal feed.” (4) Conserving precious water resources is key to ensuring everyone has enough to eat and drink accross the world. “Of the less than 1 percent of freshwater available for human use, a whopping 70 percent goes toward growing food and raising animals.” (5)

Going vegetarian is good for the planet and massively reduces an individuals carbon footprint. There are also health and wealth benefits too. Many people believe eating as many different fruits and vegetables as possible can give you maximum antioxidants and therefore keep diseases like cancer away.

‘Meat free Monday’ is a campaign endorsed by meat alternative retailers as a way for traditional eaters to try one or more days a week to have meals without consuming beef, chicken or pork etc.

Although converting your favourite meat dishes to vegetarian alternatives can require a little extra thought and time, there are many real benefits to this green diet including a clear conscience, a slimmer waistline and a cheaper grocery bill.

 

References:

(1) ‘Countries with the highest rates of vegetarianism’

WorldAtlas.com, 23 Oct 2019

(2) ’10 Things you should know before going veggie’

BBC Good Food, Georgina Kiely 17 Oct 2019

(3) Linda McCartney Foods

Linda Mccartney Foods 23 oct 2019

(4) ‘How much water goes into producing our food and drink’

The Guardian, Laura Paddison, 23 August 2013

(5) ‘Thirsty Food’

National Geographic 17 Oct 2019

Ban Junk Mail To Help Beat Global Warming

Amanda Howse
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Ban Junk Mail To Help Beat Global Warming

We can make huge environmental savings in the UK by changing the law to make unsolicited mail that is posted to residential properties illegal. We could ban junk mail and free pages this month and see the immediate effects by minimising waste and unnecessary post.

Every household across the country and in most western countries across the world receives hundreds of pages of advertising and information through their front doors each year. Families and people of all ages receive communication from companies and organisations that they have not requested into their mail boxes.

Businesses and charities send leaflets, flyers and booklets that are delivered by our postmen or women. Royal Mail have no idea if the message is appropriate to the individual that receives it. The general public then needs to either read this pile and recycle it or simply put it in the bin. Organisations are trying to compete for business and financial donations. They hope that by dropping thousands of marketing letters directly into peoples homes they will gain new customers. More clients purchasing from companies creates much needed jobs in the UK. Often these mailshots are sent by a small local business to a specific location or areas.

However this activity uses paper and printing ink which is harmful to the environment. Sometimes a company or charity will send ‘gifts’ such as pens, cards or coasters which adds further to the waste of resources. It takes resources to deliver these marketing promotions and uses fuel. It also takes power and energy to collect and recycle these papers.

Sometimes the unrequested magazines are enclosed in plastic wrapping which is then single use and has to go to land fill. Phone book pages are big fat publcations with hundreds of sheets of paper that hardly anyone looks at, as virtually all adults aged 16 to 34 years have internet access and 90% of those over 35 are web users. (1)

The ClimateChange Act (2008) contains “a target requiring emissions reductions by at least 100% by 2050.” The climate is changing because of “greenhouse gases and the bulk of emissions derive from our demand for energy. The largest contributor is carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted when fossil fuels are burnt.” (2) Therefore completely stopping superfluous communications that result in the burning of fossil fuels will help to ensure a better planet, for future generations.

It would also be a good idea to add to new legislation that correspondence magazines from the council should be requested in advance by residents as 43% of people in a recent survey said they wanted the West Sussex Connections electronically or not at all. (3)

Forward thinking companies such as Ikea have digital versions of all their product collections available online to download. The Swedish retailer has invited consumers to pick up a copy from their shops. Ikea have stopped sending out catalogues to everyone in postcodes within driving distance to their store this year and also stated:

“Our catalogues are printed on totally chlorine-free paper and contain at least 10-15% post-consumer waste. No rainforest or old-growth fibres are used. The pre-press process is 100% digital, which means no film is used and none of the associated chemicals. No optical brighteners are used on the paper.”

Websites and email, sports and arts sponsorship, television advertising and radio advertising are some of the greener options that could be used instead of sending irrelevant post in order drive fresh sales and gain support. Compromises will need to be made in order to reach our Climate Change targets and prohibiting inappropriate junk mail and downloading content whenever possible is a simple ‘eco quick win’ we can all do now.

References:

(1) Office for National Statistics IT Industry Users

(2) The Committee on Climate Change

(3) West Sussex Connections October 2019 page 2

(4) Ikea catalogue policy

Pride of Southampton attracts rockers, revellers and retailers

Amanda Howse
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Pride of Southampton attracts rockers, revellers and retailers

Southampton’s largest LGBT+ Pride free family festival is a fabulous success but are local businesses just taking part …or are they taking advantage?

“LGBT is an initialism that stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender” people. The plus sign is used to additionally to encompass extra spectrums of sexuality and gender. (1)

On Saturday 24th August 2019 a splendid parade from Watts Park on Commercial Road set off about 1:30pm and continued through the city centre kicking off the party to celebrate sexual freedom and diversity in one of the UK’s most important cities.

The event location was the Arts Centre, Guildhall, Southampton, SO14 7LPA and it was orchestrated by a group called Pride Southampton. Cunard and P&O Cruises were working in partnership with council leaders to mark the occasion. There was a huge cruise liner ship in the historic harbour on the day of the festivities.(2).

The main stage was set up in the Guildhall Square and a wide variety of musical acts including S club were taking it in turns to entertain the crowds. Artists such as Sam Callahan and Felix Shephard, from BBC X factor fame, took the microphone and there were several bands playing late into the night. Local groups such as the Sing Heart and Soul choir and the local brass band all got involved and contributed creatively. (3)

There was also a separate stage in the Guildhall and an acoustic stage boasting a packed cultural schedule to keep the eclectic and glitter dusted audience happy.

The performances could be heard inside and outside the Guildhall. Some people complained to the organisers the music was too loud inside the building and the organisers soon turned it down a little.

The Southampton Pride team achieved their aim of a positive and memorable family friendly festival for several thousands of people attending on one of the hottest days of the summer. “a smashing day…safe and inclusive.” said Sarah Haigh merrily and “my first Pride – an amazing day” agreed Mikayla Morgan.

John Lewis created a dedicated festival area to show support for this annual celebration and there were colourful displays, face painting and many Partners were working in specially brightly printed T-shirts. Company staff in custom Pride T-shirts decorated with a kaleidoscope of different hair, make-up and accessories enjoyed their day across town.

Shops that got involved included massive stores like Ikea and also smaller businesses like the Pumpkin cafe in the station where a young assistant named Emma explained how she “is very excited and I made sure I am on the early shift so I can go and take part later this afternoon.”

All ages and many people travelled in by train from neighbouring areas to take part. They arrived in Southampton’s main ticket office to be greeted by an inflatable rainbow unicorn and friends who confirmed they had alighted at the correct station.

Not everyone was thrilled about the event and a local man Joey White thought the event was the “the epitome of rainbow capitalism.”

A brilliant time was had by all but are accusations of rainbow capitalism valid? Could corporate businesses be too keen to jump on the bandwagon in order to compete for the ‘pink pound’? Managing directors all over the city certainly seemed keen to cash in on customers visiting the city and spending money this weekend.

It could simply be that companies are simply looking to attract a wide variety of customers and Pride is a good opportunity to ‘pin their colours to the mast.’ Major brands want to let the public know they are an inclusive and pleased to welcome folk from the lesbian,gay, bi-sexual and transgender and (and all those that are still questioning) communities into their establishments.

A major outdoors occasion occurring away from the High Street probably diverted hundreds of regular Saturday shoppers away from their usual favourite stores. All ages of residents looking for fun days out for the family that do not cost them anything were in luck and headed for the Guildhall.

Many other more traditional shoppers may have been put off spending their leisure time and money in Commerical Road and may have actively planned to avoid the city centre as they did not want to get tangled up in unusual crowds of visitors rushing into the city.

The music and the weather were fabulous and most people had a brilliant time at Pride Southampton and are looking forward to next years event. The business community is looking to connect with potential and existing customers in any way they can, so we are sure they will be planning their outfits and activities for Southampton Pride 2020 already.

References:

Pride Southampton Offical Website

Twitter: #prideSouthampton

LGBT – Wikipedia

Continental Colourist Ivan Hitchens Shows in Chichester

Amanda Howse
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Continental Colourist Ivan Hitchens Shows in Chichester

A ‘first class’ exhibition can be experienced at the “Ivon Hitchens: Space Through Colour” which is on now. Pallant House which provides the ideal backdrop to display a fabulous and famous Sussex artist’s retrospective.

Around ten rooms of paintings depict chronologically the life and work of contemporary artist Ivan Hitchens. The exhibition takes place from the 29th June until 13th October 2019 and Pallant House is open every day except Mondays.The Pallant House Gallery is located centrally in the historic city at 8-9 North Pallant, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1TJ.

Ivan Hitchins (3 March 1893 – 29 August 1979) is an important 20th century artist who lived and worked in Sussex. Hitchen’s vibrant landscapes, portraits and floral still life paintings are admired all over the world.

Hitchins was educated at Beadales in Hampshire and his early career was based in London and his early works are subdued and moody oils and watercolours. He was influenced by Ben Nicholson, Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. He knew fellow creatives in the Bloomsbury group in the 20’s and 30’s and when his studio burned down in London in World War II, he made the move to Sussex.

The developing artist bought around an acre of land at Petworth and began painting a series of garden inspired pieces and landscapes. As Hitchens works progressed his pieces become more abstract and brightly coloured and bold. He “..brought continental colour to the English landscape.” proclaims the Pallant House website. Ivan Hitchen had a wife named Mollie and a son called John who also became a painter. The Hitchens moved to Selsey in West Sussex in their later years in order to paint by the coast.

Celebrating talented Sussex artists is Pallant House’s forte and this fabulous collection lifts the spirits and did not disappoint. “Ivon Hitchens : Space Through Colour” is suitable for all ages to visit.

This visual catalogue of Hitchen’s life curated by Anne Goodchild is the best visual experience to date at Pallant House. The cool pallet of different background wall finishes have been carefully chosen especially for the show. These ‘not white’ cube spaces enhance Hitchen’s work perfectly and provide a continually surprising sequence of light and spacious rooms to explore these magnificent works, that echo the joy and brilliance of French masters like Matisse and Cezanne.

We are inspired to get out into the countryside and commence ‘en plein air’ painting and we are delighted to find that the South Downs national park has partnered with Pallant House to provide a special extra activity. There is a footpath that walks through the route that Hitchens would have taken to paint some of his best known landscapes in Lavington and Duncton, West Sussex. There is a map and more information available, free to download, on the Pallant House website.

References:

  1. Pallant House Gallery

    https://pallant.org.uk/whats-on/ivon-hitchens-space-through-colour/

 

Paterson’s Cosmic Latte Blends Turner with Science

Amanda Howse
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Paterson’s Cosmic Latte Blends Turner with Science

This Spring Katie Paterson chose some of Turners paintings as inspiration for a brilliant exhibition at the Turner Contemporary art museum in Margate in Kent, England.

The exhibition ran from the end of January to the 6th May 2019 and showcased the latest works by the relatively young contemporary Scottish artist who likes to consider the scale of the universe and our place within it.

This free show enabled visitors of all ages a glimpse into the celestial world of Paterson’s mind. The first major piece in the gallery was entitled ‘Cosmic Latte’ and consisted of a large rotating sphere that showed the colours, textures and beauty of our planet as viewed from space.

Both local residents and tourists from all around the UK and beyond came to see the unique display. One gentleman who is an artist living in Suffolk described it as “the best collection he had seen at the Turner Contemporary yet” and added that he “was returning for a second tour to read more of the details and look at the exhibits again.”

Paterson’s website describe how her projects “consider our place on Earth in the context of geological time and change. Her artworks make use of sophisticated technologies and specialist expertise to stage intimate, poetic and philosophical engagements between people and their natural environment.” Paterson’s biography continues to explain that through her “…coolly minimalist presentation, her work collapses the distance between the viewer and the most distant edges of time and the cosmos.”

This blurring of the boundaries of science and art is indeed thought provoking and stimulating. Pieces such as Katie’s ‘Fossil Necklace’ which consists of 170 fossils carved into beads that represent “a major event in the evolution of life through the vast expanse of geological time” challenge us to conceptualise our place in the history of the earth. These works encourage us to think about our impact on the planet and in the atmosphere in space. This is especially relevant at this critical time for the future of our environment and the prevention of harmful climate change.

This Autumn Katie Paterson’s latest works can be seen at the NOW exhibition at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art from Saturday 28th October 2019 to Sunday 31st May 2020 at 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR.

Katie Paterson’s website http://katiepaterson.org/

Katie Paterson NOW exhibition at Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art https://www.nationalgalleries.org/exhibition/now-katie-paterson-ciara-phillips-and-others

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