Dates For Your DiarySat 26 Nov.  Sewing Machine course with Claire Buckley: see Members’ Announcements.
Sun 27 Nov.  Elizabeth Connell, internationally famed soprano will give a concert at St Mary-in-the-Castle, 6pm. See Music.
Mon 28 Nov. 7 for 7.30.  Burton Society AGM in AF 1. See Members Announcements
Fri 2 Dec.      6.30 – late. Forum’s Creative Christmas 2011 arts and crafts show, curated by Angela Childs.
                       5 – 7. Christmas lights and late night shopping along St Leonards Seaside strip.  
Sat / Sun 3/4 Dec. Christmas Open Studios. Mark Fisher (paintings) and Anthony Wynne (glass)have an ‘open studio’ in SeddlescombeSee under Members Annouincements.
Thu 8 Dec.    Late night shopping til 7 pm along ‘the seaside strip’ – also 15 Dec and 22 Dec.
                                                
Stop PressTowner Art Gallery calls for East Sussex artists to submit work for the 2012 open exhibition, 24 Mar – 29 Apr. For more info go to www.townereastbourne.org.uk or call Eastbourne 434667.

South East Open Studios. (SEOS). Forum member, Mark Fisher, is an East Sussex and area co-ordinator for SEOS, 2012. Open Studios programme will run for two weeks between Fri 1 – Sunday, 17 June 2012. If you register your interest on-line before 25 Dec 2011, you will be eligible for a £95 entry fee, otherwise, the fee is £105.00. To enter the open studio programme, you need to register with Felicity Flutter, overall co-ordinator by 31 Jan . See www.seos-art.org . Participation gives you access to a brochure with 30,000 copies didtributed across the south-east. SEOS claims to originate over 20,000 visits to artists’ studios.

Volunteers with Computer Skills. Volunteer forumites with computer skills and an interest in networking are being sought for the Forum’s IT/ web content team; we are sad to hear that Danny Mooney is taking a break from the current team. We are interested in meeting people who have at least some basic html skills, an eye for design and importantly a willingness to learn. The website uses WordPress blogging platform and we have FaceBook and Twitter interests to look after.The team meets once a week for an hour or two, or as required. Tea-making skills and an interest in quality biscuits essential.

St Leonards ‘SeasideStrip’ Christmas. The Forum and its neighbours along the seaside strip are joining together on Fri 2 Dec to switch on Christmas lights together with a late night opening (til 7 pm) on Fri 2 Dec. A grant from the Council for £500 is being matched by businesses and traders. During December, there will also be three late night openings until 7 pm on Thursdays, Dec  8, 15 and 22.

Dorothea Huntrods : ”On behalf of the Exhibitions Committee and as the curator of the Open Forum Self-Portraits exhibition scheduled for next year, I’d like to thank all the artists who have registered their interest in the two themed exhibitions, Self Portraits and Surrealism,  planned for 2012. We have had a very reassuring response but there is still room for more! Especially from all those energetic surrealist artists out there who’ve yet to take up the challenge! Please let the Forum know by the end of the year, so that we can plan ahead.

Booking Exhibitions. Please note there are currently vacancies for selected dates in 2012. There are also two one-week slots as follows: 21 – 28 March 2012 in AF1; and 18 -25 July in AF2. As always, apart from the two dates mentioned, priority will always be given to requests for two-week shows. Bids should be made direct to the Forum on (01424) 201636 or email info@hastingsartsforum.co.uk marking your message: “For the Exhibitions Committee”

Studio space - still available !!  We have received the following information about studio space. Lovely affordable studio space to let in St Leonards, to share with two other creative professionals.
Would suit designer/illustrator. For more info please contact : Eleanor on 07786 960140 or Georgina on 07958 611910

Storytelling. The closing event of Hastings’ new Storytelling Festival was held on Sun 20 Nov in AF 1 with Hilary Watkins of Ragbagarts and colourful troubadour Ben Fairlight spinning songs and yarns around the Festival theme of ‘The Sea of Life’.
       
Nina Pearce’s ‘Bebe’ opens on the Kings Road. Check out Nina’s new shop, ‘Bebe’, opening across the road from the Gill Gallery in Kings Road, St  Leonards on 1 Dec. She also expects the Gill Gallery to be fully operational by then.

Current Exhibitions…
                                                                                                                                           
Splashback ! 17 – 29 Nov in AF 1. “Amazing diversity of talent!” and “refreshing” is the visitor reaction to a wide variety of exhibits including oil & acrylic paintings, ceramics, bronze, glass, photography, textiles and many interesting forms of mixed media exhibited by The Splash! Group which comprises Tony Allen, Jennie Bayntun, Lynne Bingham, Rob Daniel, Gina Lelliott, Jean Lofts, Robin Muckle, Nick Pilcher, Nick Rowland, Catherine Smart, Suzie Smith and Susan Watts. Many visitors to the exhibition have asked whether Lynne Bingham made the tiny figures displayed in some of her works (shown in the ‘detail’ below). Lynne is happy to admit that she gets these figures from the internet, and ‘yes’ they ARE plastic. The beads are genuine abacus beads, which she collects and paints.

Jessica Levine. 17 – 29 Nov in AF 2.  Jessica is a member from Kent, who exhibits widely throughout the southeast. She is mainly a self taught artist specialising in abstract collages and abstract paintings. Her collages have been selling well since the start of the exhibition.

Forthcoming Exhibitions

Creative Christmas.  AF 1 and 2.  From 2 – 13 Dec. Curated by Angela Childs. Crafts and paintings for Christmas in both Galleries.              

 Angela Childs curates her third Christmas craft show at the Forum. This is the Forum’s main opportunity to exhibit crafts, but will feature both paintings and craft items including many from local artists and artisans. 

Volunteers Show.  AF 2 from 16 Dec – 4 Jan. Free entry to all who have been volunteers this year. Hand-in date will be 15 Dec.

Chris Roskell, Jo Welsh and Ian Welsh. ”Londoners in Sussex“. Paintings, Etchings and Assemblages . Dec 16 – 4 Jan.

Chris, Ian Welsh and Ian’s wife Jo Welsh have all recently moved to Hastings and are establishing two studios in an old factory in the town.

Ian Welsh makes observations of water and has been working on this theme for over 25 years. His paintings use a layering process using acrylic lacquers. Ian has a degree in painting from Chelsea as well as Post Graduate degrees in Printmaking and Sculpture. He was Head of Foundation in Norwich, Head of Painting in Bergen, Norway and Head of Printmaking at Chelsea. His work is in public and private collections including the V&A, Barclays Wealth and Deutsche Bank and in international collections including Scandinavia.

Jo Welsh makes assemblages and etchings. She has had numerous exhibitions and is represented in many public and private collections including Farley Farm, the home of the Surrealists; the Penrose Collection at Chiddingly. Jo has also taught at Norwich, Chelsea and Bergen and is currently teaching for the Corporation of London. She has work in public and private collections in the UK and Scandinavia.

Chris Roskell formerly lived in Harlow where he went to school and has worked in his studio at Parndon Mill for several years. Chris studied fine art in the sixties and early seventies, a time when the whole validity of painting was hotly debated. Indeed his work towards the end of his time at art school moved away from conventional painting towards performance when he worked with dancers from The London Contemporary Dance. Since then Chris has spent time carrying out specialist decorating commissions on site, using his craft skills as a painter, as well as developing fine art painting in the studio. Chris Roskell was a student when Ian Welsh taught him at Harlow.

Both Galleries will be closed  for annual re-furbishment from 4-18 Jan 2012. Volunteers required: painters, cleaners, tea-makers, brow-wipers, seamstresses !!

Exhibitions Elsewhere

 Masquerade.  SoCo + Photohub Group in St Mary-in-the-Castle will exhibit  ‘Portrait as Performance’  until 18 Dec. SoCo (South Coast Artists) make a welcome return to St Mary in the Castle in Hastings this month in a new collaborative art exhibition by members of SoCo (South Coast Artists) and PhG (Photo Hub Group). Masquerade promises an exciting alternative to tradition. The eighteen participating artists have been invited to freely interpret their concept of ‘portrait’ with ‘alternative’ and ‘edgy’ artworks inspired by the concepts of dressing up, theatrical tableaux, alter-egos and portraits that address historic or cultural identities/stereotypes. 
 
With contributions from painters, photographers, makers, dancers and singers, the show promises a variety of new refreshing work. ‘Masquerade‘offers a thought-provoking re-invention of ‘the portrait’. Open Thurs-Sat: 11-3: Sun: 12–3).  For more information please visit www.soco.org.uk<http://www.soco.org.uk>; www.phghastings.co.uk<http://www.phghastings.co.uk>; www.photohubgroup.blogspot.com<http://www.photohubgroup.blogspot.com>  

 Projectart Works. Stade Hall. “Heroes, Dreams and Visions“. only till 26 November. 11 – 4 daily.
Comments on this exhibition when shown at the Forum included ’some moments of genius’  ; ’something magical is going on here’. If  you missed the exhibition at Hastings Arts Forum, here’s a last chance to see a significant body of exceptional work by seven participants on our pioneering mentoring studios programme. ‘Heroes, Dreams and Visions’ celebrates the joy and challenge of image-making. 
  
Members’ Announcements..
  
Claire Buckley posts: Sat 26 Nov, 10.00-4.00 at The Old Bakery Studios, St Leonards on Sea there will be a ‘Get to know your Sewing Machine‘ workshop with Claire Buckley. Do you have a sewing machine sitting at home unloved and ignored? Come for the day and find out just how useful your sewing machine can be! £30 (please bring your sewing machine). If you are interested but cannot make this day, get in touch with Claire as she will be repeating the workshops. Claire is an experienced textile artist, author and qualified teacher with an MA Visual Arts (Tapestry and Textile Arts) from West Dean College, Chichester; she is the author of `Start to Embroider’. Claire will be teaching a wide range of textile techniques using an inspiring array of materials including tapestry, hand and machine embroidery and felting.The courses she runs have small numbers so she can give lots of individual help and is happy to create bespoke classes to fit whatever the class wants to learn. There will be tea and cakes. Contact Claire for more information on 07771456291.

Wendy  Oxlade posts: Drawing Class at Inspire, Robertson St, Hastings: Life Drawing Class Thursdays 10.30-12.30; cost £7; from 1.30-3.30 £7; or both sessions £12.

Mark Fisher and Antony Wynne, have a Christmas Open Studio on Sat /Sun, 3/4 Dec at 10 -4pm. The open studio will be at “The Den”, Meadow Lane, Seddlescombe. Cards, painings, stained glass, garden art and more. A glass of mulled wine will greet you.

Burton Society AGM and lecture.  ‘what are those pointy things over there?’ A talk on pyramids by Stephen Gray, architect
Decimus Burton designed his father’s St Leonards pyramid to evade (allegedly) the eastern curse, ‘May jackasses sit on your father’s grave’.  A nice family tradition, but the genesis of the idea perhaps lay more in the fact that Decimus’s brother, James Haliburton, was an accomplished Egyptologist.
The Giza Pyramids and the Kushite and Meroitice pyramids in the Sudan will also be discussed, and some theories explored of a landscape-inspired genesis for Egyptian architectural forms.
Date:     Monday 28 November, 2011 at 7 for 7.30.
Venue:   HASTINGS ARTS FORUM . Following the Annual General Meeting. Admission:    £4  (£2 for Members)       

Film…..

St Leonards Film Soc has the following screenings coming up in AF 1:
6 Dec. ’Rare Exports : A Christmas Tale’ set in the depths of the Korvatunturi mountains.
22 Dec. ’Its a Wonderful Life!’..a classic gem.

Music….

Sun 27 Nov. 6 pm. Elizabeth Connell, internationally famed soprano will give a concert at St Mary -in-the-Castle. Alan Privett posts: 
‘ Not to be missed, the word famous dramatic soprano will be performing in Hastings for one night only at a gala concert in St Mary in the Castle. Miss Connell will be singing from the roles which led to her international fame as a great operatic artist. Miss Connell will be accompanied on the piano by her regular concert partner Peter Rose. The evening will also include performances from acclaimed singers of the newly formed Barefoot Opera Company, which is directed by Jenny Miller and includes the mezzo soprano Krysia Mansfield who recently performed at the Hastings Museum. Barefoot Opera recently performed their version of Alcina at the London Arcola Grimeborn Opera Festival. Ms Miller has, for the past three years, delighted Hastings audiences by directing sensational fully staged operas in the dramatic setting of St Mary in the Castle. This forthcoming concert with Elizabeth Connell looks set to be another sparkling event. Tickets are most reasonably priced at £12.50 – call 01424 432 985 to secure your seat for what promises to be a winter evening of superlative musical entertainment.

Poetry…

The-Pen-is- Mightier-than  the-Sword as they say….so unsheath your Parker
and join the poets in AF 2 on 4 Dec at 5pm where
the theme this month is ‘Revenge’.                                                                        
  “Quick! Tell me what you think of my poetry….”  

         

 

 

Dates For Your DiaryFri 18 Nov.    6.30-8.30pm Private View for ‘Splashback‘ AF1 and Jessica Levine in AF2. Sat 19 Nov.  3pm  in AF2  Jess Levine will give a demonstration on Collage. See Members’ Announcements. Sat 19 Nov.  Craft Sale at St Johns Church, Pevensey Road. See under Members Announcements.  Sat 19 Nov.  7 pm. Messiah performed by Hastings Philharmonic Choir with period instruments in Christchurch. Sun 20 Nov.  5.30pm. Closing event of the Hastings Storytelling Festival: Hilary Watson of Ragbagarts and Ben Fairlight’s Songstory in AF1. Mon 21 Nov.  2-4pm. Buchanan Book Group reads ‘Translations’.  Sat 26 Nov.   Sewing Machine course with Claire Buckley: see Members’ Announcements. Sun 27 Nov   Elizabeth Connell, internationally famed soprano will give a concert at St Mary-in-the-Castle, 6pm. See Music. Stop Press Volunteers with Computer Skills. Volunteer forumites with computer skills and an interest in networking are being sought for the Forum’s IT/ web content team; we are sad to hear that Danny Mooney is taking a break from the current team. We are interested in meeting people who have at least some basic html skills, an eye for design and importantly a willingness to learn. The website uses WordPress blogging platform and we have FaceBook and Twitter interests to look after.The team meets once a week for an hour or two, or as required. Tea-making skills and an interest in quality biscuits essential. St Leonards ‘SeasideStrip’ Christmas. The Forum and its neighbours along the seaside strip are joining together on Fri 2 Dec to switch on Christmas lights together with a late night opening on Fri 2 Dec. A grant from the Council for £500 is being matched by businesses and traders. During December, there will be three late night openings until 7 pm. Dorothea Huntrods : ”On behalf of the Exhibitions Committee and as the curator of the Open Forum Self-Portraits exhibition scheduled for next year, I’d like to thank all the artists who have registered their interest in the two themed exhibitions, Self Portraits and Surrealism,  planned for 2012. We have had a very reassuring response but there is still room for more! Especially from all those energetic surrealist artists out there who’ve yet to take up the challenge! Please let the Forum know by the end of the year, so that we can plan ahead. Booking Exhibitions. Please note there are currently vacancies for selected dates in 2012. There are also two one-week slots as follows: 21 – 28 March 2012 in AF1; and 18 -25 July in AF2. As always, apart from the two dates mentioned, priority will always be given to requests for two-week shows. Bids should be made direct to the Forum on (01424) 201636 or email info@hastingsartsforum.co.uk marking your message: “For the Exhibitions Committee” Studio space. We have received the following information about studio space. Lovely affordable studio space to let in St Leonards, to share with two other creative professionals. Would suit designer/illustrator. For more info please contact : Eleanor on 07786 960140 or Georgina on 07958 611910 Storytelling. Ben Fairlight will perform on Sunday evening, 20 Nov at 5.30 in AF 1 with his  ’Songstory’ as part of the closing event in the Hastings Storytelling Festival. The event opened earlier this month in the  Forum on 9 Nov and has held events elsewhere in Hastings. On Sunday, Ben will be joined by Hilary Watson from RagbagArts.    Ben Fairlight performing ”Songstory” in AF1 on 9 Nov         Helen Hunt is running three bookmaking workshops before Christmas. Make your own gifts. See Members Announcements. Nina Pearce’s ‘Bebe’ to open on the Kings Road. Nina  tells us that she is on course to open her new shop, ‘Bebe’, across the road from the Gill Gallery. in Kings Road, St  Leonards in time for Christmas. She also expects the Gill Gallery to be fully operational by then. Nina is very enthusiastic about the future of the entire rail station end of the Kings Road. In the short term there is a specialist furniture shop, opening shortly near ‘Bebe’ ; and other neighbouring businesses have decided to re-furbish. The lease on the Railway Inn is due up in a year’s time and the freeholder hopes to re-brand the pub, making it more welcoming, particularly  to unaccompanied women. Many of the flats above these businesses are also being re-furbished and it is hoped that the majority will go to students. This is undoubtedly good news for St Leonards generally, as this area is the first seen by visitors arriving by train. George Kelvie. Friends of George will be pleased to hear that George hopes to be back in the Forum as a volunteer in the New Year. He is also hoping to take up his duties as a weather reporter and recorder for the Meteorological Office. It takes some time to regain strength after a long year of treatment for cancer and hospitalisation and we wish George well.. Current Exhibitions…                                                                                                                                             Splashback ! 17 – 29 Nov in AF 1. The Splash! is a group of 12 artists who return to the Forum with new work. A wide range of exhibits will be shown including oil & acrylic paintings, ceramics, bronze, glass, photography, textiles and many interesting forms of mixed media. The Splash! Group comprises Tony Allen, Jennie Bayntun, Lynne Bingham, Rob Daniel, Gina Lelliott, Jean Lofts, Robin Muckle, Nick Pilcher, Nick Rowland, Catherine Smart, Suzie Smith and Susan Watts.                               Jessica Levine. 17 – 29 Nov in AF 2.  Jessica is a member from Kent, who exhibits widely throughout the southeast. She is mainly a self taught artist specialising in abstract collages and abstract paintings. She is passionate about colour and texture and enjoys making “satisfying compositions”. Join her for a collage demonstration Sat 19 Nov at 3pm. Forthcoming Exhibitions Creative Christmas.  AF 1 and 2.  4 – 14 Dec. Curated by Angela Childs. Both Galleries. ‘Creative Christmas 2011‘ – Angela Childs curates her third Christmas craft show at the Forum. This is the Forum’s main opportunity to exhibit crafts, but will feature both paintings and craft items including many from local artists and artisans.  Volunteers Show.  AF 1 from 16 Dec – 4 Jan. Free entry to all who have been volunteers this year. Hand-in date will be 15 Dec. Chris Roskell, Jo Welsh and Ian Welsh. ”Londoners in Sussex“. Paintings, Etchings and Assemblages. Dec 16 – 4 Jan. Both Galleries will be closed  for annual re-furbishment from 4-18 Jan 2012. Volunteers required: painters, cleaners, tea-makers, brow-wipers, seamstresses !! Exhibitions Elsewhere  Masquerade.  SoCo + Photohub Group in St Mary-in-the-Castle will exhibit ‘Portrait as Performance.’  19 Nov – 20 Dec. SoCo (South Coast Artists) make a welcome return to St Mary in the Castle in Hastings this month in a new collaborative art exhibition by members of SoCo (South Coast Artists) and PhG (Photo Hub Group). Masquerade promises an exciting alternative to tradition. The eighteen participating artists have been invited to freely interpret their concept of ‘portrait’ with “alternative” and “edgy” artworks inspired by the concepts of dressing up, theatrical tableaux, alter-egos and portraits that address historic or cultural identities/stereotypes.    With contributions from painters, photographers, makers, dancers and singers, the show promises a variety of new refreshing work. ‘Masquerade‘ offers a thought-provoking re-invention of ‘the portrait’. All are welcome to the Private View on Sat 19 Nov from 6.30-8.30pm when there will be a performance by Judy Dewsbury and friends. The exhibition continues until 18 Dec (open Thurs-Sat: 11-3: Sun: 12–3).  For more information please visit www.soco.org.uk <http://www.soco.org.uk> ; www.phghastings.co.uk <http://www.phghastings.co.uk> ; www.photohubgroup.blogspot.com <http://www.photohubgroup.blogspot.com>    Projectart Works. Stade Hall. “Heroes, Dreams and Visions“. 12 – 26 November. 11 – 4 daily. Comments on this exhibition when shown at the Forum included ’some moments of genius’  ; ’something magical is going on here’. If  you missed the exhibition at Hastings Arts Forum, here’s another chance to see a significant body of exceptional work by 7 participants on our pioneering mentoring studios programme. Heroes, Dreams and Visions celebrates the joy and challenge of image-making. From iconic paintings of film and television heroes to a magical series of brightly coloured still lives, the works will be wide-ranging in approach, style and execution.     Members’ Announcements..   Gerry  Wheeler posts: ‘Messiah with a Difference!‘ : Hastings Philharmonic Choir is performing Handel’s much-loved oratorio ‘Messiah’ in Christ Church St. Leonards on Sat 19 Nov. The concert starts at 7pm and features four fine soloists, including well-known mezzo Louise Winter.  Accompanying will be instruments which would have been familiar to Handel and his eighteenth century audiences;  and which are quite different in construction, tone and effect from those in a modern symphony orchestra.  Magnetic maestro Hilary Davan Wetton will conduct an accomplished period instrument orchestra, specially convened for the occasion and led by Julia Bishop.  Julia is one of the outstanding baroque violin specialists of her generation and co-founder of the flamboyant baroque quartet ‘Red Priest’, described in the press as ‘visionary’ and with a ‘rock-chamber concert approach to early music’.  This promises to be an exciting and memorable ‘Messiah‘, appealing to a wide range of music lovers.  Don’t miss it! Tickets £15 plus concessions; only £3 for 16 years and under. Further details on: www.hastingsphilchoir.org.uk, or tel: 01424 552119. Claire Buckley posts: Sat 26 Nov 10.00-4.00 at The Old Bakery Studios, St Leonards on Sea there will be a ‘Get to know your Sewing Machine‘ workshop with Claire Buckley. Do you have a sewing machine sitting at home unloved and ignored? Come for the day and find out just how useful your sewing machine can be! £30 (please bring your sewing machine). If you are interested but cannot make this day, get in touch with Claire as she will be repeating the workshops. Claire is an experienced textile artist, author and qualified teacher with an MA Visual Arts (Tapestry and Textile Arts) from West Dean College, Chichester; she is the author of `Start to Embroider’. Claire will be teaching a wide range of textile techniques using an inspiring array of materials including tapestry, hand and machine embroidery and felting.The courses she runs have small numbers so she can give lots of individual help and is happy to create bespoke classes to fit whatever the class wants to learn. There will be tea and cakes. Contact Claire for more information on 07771456291. Jill Hartman posts: Craft Sale at St Johns Church, Pevensey Road, St Leonards on Sat 19 Nov, 10.30am -4.00pm will feature 25 local artists in a one day exhibition. Jill who organised the exhibition, is a well-known local artist and also now a new curate at St Johns Church. Many of the artists will be well-known plus some exciting emerging talent; to include Anna Pontonutti, Alex Leadbetter, Hazel Brook, Ray McChrystal, Marylyn Edwards, Roger Blaker and Ben White.  Film….. St Leonards Film Soc have the following screenings coming up in AF 1: 24 Nov. ‘Junkhearts’,  which had its premiere at the 2011 British Film Institute London Film Festival.  NB: The advertised screening of “Tomboy” (15) is postponed.  6 Dec. ’Rare Exports : A Christmas Tale’ set in the depths of the Korvatunturi mountains. 22 Dec. ’Its a Wonderful Life!’..a classic gem. Music…. Sat 19 Nov.  7 pm. Messiah performed by Hastings Philharmonic Choir with period instruments in Christ Church. Sun 27 Nov. 6 pm. Elizabeth Connell, internationally famed soprano will give a concert at St Mary -in-the-Castle. Alan Privett posts:  ‘ Not to be missed, the word famous dramatic soprano will be performing in Hastings for one night only at a gala concert in St Mary in the Castle. Miss Connell will be singing from the roles which led to her international fame as a great operatic artist. Miss Connell will be accompanied on the piano by her regular concert partner Peter Rose. The evening will also include performances from acclaimed singers of the newly formed Barefoot Opera Company, which is directed by Jenny Miller and includes the mezzo soprano Krysia Mansfield who recently performed at the Hastings Museum. Barefoot Opera recently performed their version of Alcina at the London Arcola Grimeborn Opera Festival. Ms Miller has, for the past three years, delighted Hastings audiences by directing sensational fully staged operas in the dramatic setting of St Mary in the Castle. This forthcoming concert with Elizabeth Connell looks set to be another sparkling event. Tickets are most reasonably priced at £12.50 – call 01424 432 985 to secure your seat for what promises to be a winter evening of superlative musical entertainment. Poetry… Dip your pen deep into the vitriolic inkwell for the next meeting of St Leonards’ versifiers in AF 2 on 4 Dec at 5pm; the theme is ‘Revenge’.                                                                         ..all criticism of my paintings hush: or I impale thee forthwith on my paint brush..

 

 

Dates For Your Diary        

Fri 11 Nov. 6-8pm Private View and book launch of ‘Rooms For Ideas’ at Hastings Museum & Art Gallery. SeeExhibitions Elswhere.
Fri 11 Nov. Projectart Works previews “Heroes, Dreams and Visions” ,at the Stade. Hall  See Exhibitions Elsewhere 
Fri 11 Nov. 6 – 8.30. Private View for Hastings Independent Photographers in Number One Cafe, corner of London Rd / Grand Parade,SLOS.
Sat 12 Nov. 2pm come and meet the artist Ian Francis in AF2 where he will be happy to discuss the works in his current exhibition.
Fri 18 Nov.  6.30-8.30pm Private View for ‘Splashback‘ AF1 and Jessica Levine in AF2.
Sat 19 Nov.  3pm  in AF2  Jess Levine will give a demonstration on Collage. See Members’ Announcements.
Sun 20 Nov. 5.30pm. Closing event of the Hastings Storytelling Festival: Hilary Watson of Ragbagarts and Ben Fairlight’s Songstory in AF1.
Mon 21 Nov. 2 – 4. Buchanan Book Group reads ‘Translations’. See Members’ Announcements

 

For Self Portraits and the Surrealism Exhibitions, a non-refundable fee of £20.00 will be required from individual entrants which will allow each entrant to submit four pieces to their chosen exhibition. We propose to sell ‘off the wall’and refill empty spaces from the four submissions, not hung, but kept in reserve for this purpose. The thinking behind this is that the more exposure an artwork gets , the greater the chance of catching the eye of a purchaser.

Dorothea Huntrods stated: ”On behalf of the Exhibitions Committee and as the curator of the Open Forum Self-Portraits exhibition scheduled for next year, I’d like to thank all the artists who have registered their interest in the two themed exhibitions planned for 2012. We have had a very reassuring response but there is still room for more! Especially from all those energetic surrealist artists out there who’ve yet to take up the challenge! Please let the Forum know by the end of November so that we can plan ahead.

Booking Exhibitions. Please note there are currently vacancies for selected dates in 2012. There are also two one-week slots as follows: 21 – 28 March 2012 in AF1; and 18 -25 July in AF2. As always, apart from the two dates mentioned, priority will always be given to requests for two-week shows. Bids should be made direct to the Forum on (01424) 201636 or email info@hastingsartsforum.co.uk marking your message: “For the Exhibitions Committee”

Come and Stitch at the Forum: Sat 12 Nov, 12- 3pm. The artists from Studio 21 under the banner “Continuum” would be happy if you would join them in the Gallery and add to an ever-growing piece of work. Enjoy a glass of wine and sit for a while and stitch. Don’t worry if you haven’t sewn before, just come and join in! Everyone has a memory that evokes a particular thought, time or location: a special sense of place. We hope that their collaborative work Continuum will inspire you to add your own marks and stitches to this exciting project. www.studio21textileart.co.uk/.
       
Workers Education Association. Sat 12 Nov. “DÉGAS – Picturing Movement”  is the theme of a talk by well-known art historian and practicing artist, Bryan Davies in St Matthews Centre, London Road, St Leonards on Sea. Bryan will explore Dégas’ paintings of dancers and horses in movement – which grew from the artist’s awareness of the new technologies of photography and film. This WEA lecture is timed to coincide with the current Royal Academy Exhibition. 10am to 1pm. £8 payable at the door. All enquiries to Joan Pugh 01424-444686.

Helen Hunt is running three bookmaking workshops before Christmas. Make your own gifts. See Members Announcements.

Alastair Fairley , a past Chairman of  the Hastings Arts Forum — and his vibrant home in Hastings are featured extensively in the November issue of glossy lifestyle magazine Wealden Times. As well as a fascinating glimpse into Alastair’s colourful life, there is a chance to see the impressive mural gracing his courtyard by local artist Linda King. Alastair currently has a touring exhibition dedicated to his father, former ITN  Science Editor Peter Fairley: Man on the Moon. See for yourself at www.manonthemoon.org.uk  andwww.wealdentimes.co.uk. To find a copy of Wealden Times which is free of charge, ring freephone 0800 294 9011. There is an article on Alastair’s house andan interview. Below is an excerpt from the inteview.

 Talking about the De La Warr  Alastair goes on to say “It inspired me that perhaps we could achieve the same sort of thing in Hastings. I had already setup the Hastings Art Forum to help develop the town’s burgeoning arts scene. Through that, I landed the role of chairing the town’s Strategic Partnership and campaigned for culture to be taken more seriously here. It was amazing when the Jerwood Foundation became interested in us – I think they could see the potential, so they invested in the town. Their new Gallery on The Stade should be completed next year which will be fantastic. I think it shows what you can achieve if you try…”
Current Exhibitions…
                                                                                                                                           
Continuum – A Sense of Place. 15 artists from across the south-east will continue to exhibit in AF 1 until 15 Nov. This exhibition is a collaborative project by Studio 21 featuring a group of textile and mixed media artists, whose aim is to push the boundaries of traditional expectations in textiles. All members of the group are graduates of the Higher Ed. Diploma in Stitched Textiles at Bucks New University. See their website:http://www.studio21textileart.co.uk/. 

Exhibiting members include Arnarjeet Nandhra, Anne Froggatt, Annette Collinge, Dawn Thorne, Debbie Lyddon, Jacky Russell, Jill Flower, Judy Drysdale, Lynda Gleave, Liz Heywood, Marion Glover, Mary Morris, Samantha Harvey, Sandra Meech and Susan Chapman. Although items are not for sale, this has been a very well received exhibition with comments in the book including: “Quite extraordinary..”; “Absolutely wonderful…”; “New and exciting..”. 

Ian Francis MA: Paintings and Drawings in AF 2. Ian’s explosion of colourful abstracted ideas will also continue until 15 Nov. “I have never been so moved by a painting”, was the comment of young art buyer, Louie who returned to the exhibition to purchase Ian’s ‘Gentle Warrior’ (below, left) this week. There will be an opportunity to walk around the exhibition on Saturday 12 at 2pm with the artist and discuss the thinking and philosophy behind the paintings and drawings in this one-man show including ‘Along the Sparkling River’ (below, right).

Forthcoming Exhibitions

Splashback ! 17 – 29 Nov in AF 1. The Splash! is a group of 12 artists who return to the Forum with new work. A wide range of exhibits will be shown including oil & acrylic paintings, ceramics, bronze, glass, photography, textiles and many interesting forms of mixed media. The Splash! Group comprises Tony Allen, Jennie Bayntun, Lynne Bingham, Rob Daniel, Gina Lelliott, Jean Lofts, Robin Muckle, Nick Pilcher, Nick Rowland, Catherine Smart, Suzie Smith and Susan Watts.

Jessica Levine. 17 – 29 Nov in AF 2.  Jessica is a member from Kent, who exhibits widely throughout the southeast

Jessica is mainly a self taught artist specialising in abstract collages and abstract paintings. She is passionate about colour and texture and enjoys making “satisfying compositions”. She has exhibited quite widely in the UK and intends to develop her artistic skills further through her work for the Hastings Art Forum.  

“Creative Christmas“.  AF 1 and 2.  4 – 14 Dec. Curated by Angela Childs. Both Galleries.
Volunteers Show.  AF 1 from 16 Dec – 4 Jan. Free entry to all who have been volunteers this year. Hand-in 15 Dec.
Chris Roskell, Jo Welsh and Ian Welsh. ”Londoners in Sussex“. Paintings, Etchings and Assemblages.

Exhibitions Elsewhere

 Projectart Works. Stade Hall. “Heroes, Dreams and Visions“. 12 – 26 November. 11 – 4 daily

Comments on this exhibition when shown at the Forum included ’some moments of genius’  ; ’something magical is going on here’

If  you missed the exhibition at Hastings Arts Forum, here’s another chance to see a significant body of exceptional work by 7 participants on our pioneering mentoring studios programme. Heroes, Dreams and Visions celebrates the joy and challenge of image-making. From iconic paintings of film and television heroes to a magical series of brightly coloured still lives, the works will be wide-ranging in approach, style and execution.

Hastings Independent Photographers.  Tue 8 Nov -2 Dec. Includes Annette Barton, Emma Bryant, Debbie Gregory, Lin Gregory, Barry Reid and Tina Reid.

The Line Up: are holding an exhibition of contemporary jewellery and book launch at Hastings Museum & Art Gallery, 11 Nov 2011 to 19 Feb 2012.   ‘Rooms for Ideas‘ is inspired by the permanent collection at the Gallery and will be officially opened by Councillor Kim Forward, Mayor of Hastings at 6.30m on Fri 11 Nov. This will be a family event with live music provided by The Lucky Ones and a pay bar. The Line Up are: Jennifer Kidd, Susanne Freytag, Paula Thittichai, Amy Madge, Maxime Wareham, Wendy-Sarah Pacey, Julie Tucker-Williams and Jo McAllister.

Members’ Announcements…

Marilyn Edwards posts: Art and Craft Sale and exhibition. Sat 19 Nov, 10.30am to 4pm  at St John’s Church, Pevensey Road, St Leonard’s on Sea.

Rose Miller posts: Buchanan Book Group will read and discuss ‘Translations’, a play by Brian Friel on Mon 21 Nov, 2 – 4pm. Chaired/facilitated by Rose Miller. Some copies will be available for use during the session. Cost: £6  including refreshments. Contact rosemiller9@gmail.com - for further information; or ring 01424 443 164.

Wendy  Oxlade posts. Drawing Class. INSPIRE, Robertson St Hastings Life Drawing Class Thursdays 10.30-12.30 cost £7  1.30-3.30 £7  both sessions £12 :

Lorraine Ashley posts: a call for all artists near Westfield… I run a creative arts club in Westfield. Members have the opportunity to try their hand at a wide range of media. We can offer: painting and drawing, mosaic, ceramics, stained glass, fused glass, silk painting, batik etc.  Enamelling will be coming soon! Monthly membership of £25 entitles you to attend one or more weekly sessions. Single sessions are also available as is private tuition and one day workshops in any of the above.  The studio is amply supplied with glass and ceramic kilns, plenty of glass and mosaic cutters, paints, soldering irons, ceramic glazes etc. For more information please contact Lorraine on01424 753621 or 07810036038

Helen Hunt  is running a series of bookmaking classes at Alex Leadbeater’s studios in Harold Mews, Mercatoria. These can make ideal gifts over Christmas. The next bookmaking workshops are:– 
No previous experience necessary.

Helen Hunt. Gifts in the making.
 
Wed 16 Nov 1-4pm
Simple no-stitch bookmaking
 
Sun 4 Dec 1-4pm
Japanese stab-stitch bookmaking
 
Wed 7 Dec 1-4pm
Front-fastening bookmaking
 
All classes are run by Helen Hunt who is an experienced artist and teacher. Cost £15 including materials. 

Mary Dawson posts: ‘Women’s Voice’ are holding an International Children’s Day Event on 19 Nov, 11am—4pm at St Mary’s in the Castle. There will be Story Telling, Dance, Music, Play Activities, Raffle, Henna Art, Face Painting, Arts and Craft, Information Stalls and a Toy Swap. If you are interested in taking part or would like a stall please contact jtilbrook@hastings.gov.uk or 01424 451855. 

Marybeth Haas posts: a reminder that Ecstatic Trance Dance, a moving meditation, will be on 23 Nov and 14 Dec at the Performing Arts Studio, (room signposted 1.029), Sussex Coast College, Station Plaza. Please sign in at reception on arrival. Times: Doors Open 19:00;  Begins 19:15, Finish 21:00, Building closes 21:15. More info: www.conscious-arts.co.uk/dance or call 01424 460477.

Jessica Levine posts: I will be demonstrating collage on Sat 19 Nov at 3 pm. All welcome. Paper and glue will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

Vanessa Fowler posts: on Wed nights between 7.00 – 9.00pm,  I have started evening classes for adults, all levels welcome at my gallery/shop/studio at 6 Marine Court. The groups are small, max six. At present making will be in terracotta allowing brightly coloured glazing. A short course of 8 hours costs £60, materials extra. Vanessa has been a tutor at the college for 22 years but has recently left to pursue her own business and art. Please check FB page: Adult Pottery Classes – St Leonards on Sea – Vanessa Fowler for further information; or contact vanessanfowler@yahoo.co.uk; or call 07732987643.
. 
Janet Harding posts: Earthbeat dance sessions continue in Room 1029 (Performing Arts Studio) on the 1st Floor at Sussex Coast College, Hastings. 16, 30 Nov and 7 Dec. Arrive 6.45pm to sign in at reception; dancing is 7-9pm. Bring water and wear comfortable clothes.

Dorothea Huntrods posts: On behalf of the Exhibitions Committee and as the curator of the Open Forum Self-Portraits exhibition scheduled for next year, I’d like to thank all the artists who have registered their interest in the two themed exhibitions planned for 2012. We have had a very reassuring response but there is still room for more! Especially from all those energetic surrealist artists out there who’ve yet to take up the challenge! Please let the Forum know by the end of November so that we can plan ahead.

Film….

St Leonards Film Soc have the following screenings coming up in AF 1:

24 Nov. ‘Junkhearts’,  which had its premiere at the 2011 British Film Institute London Film Festival.  NB: The advertised screening of “Tomboy” (15) is postponed. 
6 Dec. “Rare Exports : A Christmas Tale” set in the depths of the Korvatunturi mountains.
22 Dec. “Its a Wonderful Life!”..a classic gem.

Poetry…

The Poetry Group will meet on Sat 4 Dec at 5 pm. The theme for this session will be ‘Revenge’ — although this may be interpreted as freely as you wish. As always, if this particular theme (or the chance to get back at fellow poet, Tony) doesn’t inspire you, do feel free to choose another subject that inspires you.  

Marybeth Haas posts: a reminder that Ecstatic Trance Dance, a moving meditation, will be on 23 Nov and 14 Dec at the Performing Arts Studio, (room signposted 1.029), Sussex Coast College, Station Plaza. Please sign in at reception on arrival. Times: Doors Open 19:00;  Begins 19:15, Finish 21:00, Building closes 21:15. More info: www.conscious-arts.co.uk/dance or call 01424 460477.

 

Come my love
And have no fear.
Tongue-tasting, whitest dove.
Memories of my yesteryear,
Strike deep — then soar above!

If what you want is shared desire
Then come and tarry yet awhile.
My closeness, smells may yet inspire
Your touching, reaching, fetching smile.
Could be the match that kindles fire. Anon

 

 

Dates for your Diary….

Fri 4 Nov. 6.30-8.30pm. Private View: Ian Francis.
Sat 5 Nov.  12 – 3pm in AF2. Enjoy a glass of wine; learn to sew; learn about textiles as an art form. Details in Stop Press.  Continuum will repeat this next Sat 12 Nov.
Wed 9 Nov. 5.30 pm in AF1. Songstory by Ben Fairlight. Opening event of the Hastings Storytelling Festival. All events are free entry. See www.hastingsstoryfest.org.uk.
Thu 10 Nov. 7 for 7.45pm. Film in AF1. “Way of the Morris”.
Fri 11 Nov. 6-8pm Private View and book launch of ‘Rooms For Ideas‘ at Hastings Museum & Art Galler. See Exhibitions Elswhere..
Fri 11 Nov. 6 – 8.30. Private View  for Hastings Independent Photographers in Nimber One Cafe, corner of London Rd / Grand Parade,SLOS.
Sat 12 Nov. 2pm come and meet the artist Ian Francis in AF2.
Sat 19 Nov.  3pm  in AF2  Jess Levine will give a demonstration on Collage. See Members Announcements.
Sun 20 Nov. 5.30pm. Closing event of the Hastings Storytelling Festival: Hilary Watson of Ragbagarts and Ben Fairlight’s Songstory in AF1.

Stop Press….

CALL FOR ARTISTS
OPEN FORUM THEMED EXHIBITIONS: ‘SELF PORTRAITS’ and ‘SURREALISM’
The dates for these two exhibitions are as follow:
‘Self Portraits‘ 18 July – 1 August 2012 in AF1.
‘Surrealism‘ 12 – 26 September 2012 in AF2 .
 
Any members who haven’t responded yet: remember the Forum is inviting entries in a variety of styles and media including drawing, painting, printmaking, collage etc. For these two exhibitions, however, we are not looking for sculpture (this could be a theme later on) nor photography, video art or multi media installations. These will be selling exhibitions, They will be individually curated and the submissions selected by a team of experts at the beginning of 2012 – the date to be announced. To participate in either one or both exhibitions, please let the Forum know by 30 November 2011. Tel: 01424 201636 or email info@hastingsartsforum.co.uk marked ‘For The Exhibitions Committee’. For each exhibition, a non-refundable fee of £20 will be required from individual entrants. This will allow four pieces of work per exhibition per fee.

This will be a ’sell off the wall’ exhibition with empty spaces being refilled with artworks held in reserve for this purpose. ‘Self Portraits’ will need to be handed in at the Forum between 11-14 July 2012; entries for ‘Surrealism’ between 5-7 Sept 2012. See also Dorothea’s post below.

Come and Stitch at the Forum: Sat 5 Nov and Sat 12 Nov, 12- 3pm. The artists from Studio 21 under the banner “Continuum” would be happy if you would join them in the Gallery and add to an ever-growing piece of work. Enjoy a glass of wine and sit for a while and stitch. Don’t worry if you haven’t sewn before, just come and join in! Everyone has a memory that evokes a particular thought, time or location: a special sense of place. We hope that our collaborative work Continuum will inspire you to add your own marks and stitches to this exciting project. www.studio21textileart.co.uk/.

Forum Sales. Sales have continued well for paintings. Ray McChrystal sold nine paintings in a price range of £84 – £380 during last week’s exhibition in AF 1. Ray sold two pictures on an instalment plan, which may not have happened in the absence of an  instalment plan. The Forum normally expects a deposit of 25% with terms agreede by the purchaser and the artist.

Booking Exhibitions. Please note there are currently vacancies for selected dates in 2012. There are also two one-week slots as follows: 21 – 28 March 2012 in AF1; and 18 -25 July in AF2. As always, apart from the two dates mentioned, priority will always be given to requests for two-week shows. Bids should be made direct to the Forum on (01424) 201636 or email info@hastingsartsforum.co.uk marking your message . ”For the Exhibitions Committee”
       
Workers Education Association. “DÉGAS – Picturing Movement”  is the theme of a talk by well-known art historian and practicing artist, Bryan Davies in St Matthews Centre, London Road, St Leonards on Sat 12 Nov. Bryan will explore Dégas’ paintings of dancers and horses in movement – which grew from the artist’s awareness of the new technologies of photography and film. This WEA lecture is timed to coincide with the current Royal Academy Exhibition. 10am to 1pm. £8 payable at the door. All enquiries to Joan Pugh 01424-444686

Current Exhibitions…
                                                                                                                                           
Continuum – A Sense of Place. 15 artists from across the south-east will be exhibiting in AF 1 from 3 Nov – 15 Nov. This exhibition is a collaborative project by Studio 21 featuring a group of textile and mixed media artists, whose aim is to push the boundaries of traditional expectations in textiles. All members of the group are graduates of the Higher Ed. Diploma in Stitched Textiles at Bucks New University.
 
Whereas many think of embroidery as ‘women stitching and decorating a piece of cloth’ – this group has developed the medium as an art form in its own right. They use a variety of materials, including wire, plastic and paper in the construction of their work, some of which give a strong 3-D effect. See their website:  http://www.studio21textileart.co.uk/. The group has many recognised international artists in the textile field and who teach and exhibit in the UK and abroad. Several have written books, which are regarded as benchmarks. They come together to exhibit regularly and their last exhibition was at the NEC,Birmingham in August 2011.

Exhibiting members include Arnarjeet Nandhra, Anne Froggatt, Annette Collinge, Dawn Thorne, Debbie Lyddon, Jacky Russell, Jill Flower, Judy Drysdale, Lynda Gleave, Liz Heywood, Marion Glover, Mary Morris, Samantha Harvey, Sandra Meech and Susan Chapman.
Ian Francis MA: Paintings and Drawings in AF 2, from 3 Nov – 15 Nov; preview 6.30-8.30pm on 4 Nov. Ian describes his one-man show as: “A riot of colour to help your firework celebrations to go off with a bang!” He goes on to explain: “A friend of mine said that these works reminded him of firework wrappers from the 60s and 70s. That was not what was on my mind at the time that I made them, but there is definitely a nod to the aesthetics of that time.

“The sea moving, wind and light, ships on the horizon, anatomical drawings, snippets of conversation, song lyrics, news items and random thoughts all act as triggers for my work. A joust begins between what is visualised in my imagination and what takes place on the canvas or paper. The melding of the two, a process that takes place somewhere between conscious thought and selflessness, creates the work. The work then has a life of its own, its identity defined by the person viewing it”.

Ian will be doing a gallery talk on Sat 12 Nov at 2pm. If you’re interested in meeting the artist and finding out more about his work, come along for an informal discussion.

        
Forthcoming Exhibitions

Splashback!  17 – 29 Nov in AF 1. The Splash! is a group of 12 artists who return to the Forum with new work. A wide range of exhibits will be shown including oil & acrylic paintings, ceramics, bronze, glass, photography, textiles and many interesting forms of mixed media. The Splash! Group comprises Tony Allen, Jennie Bayntun, Lynne Bingham, Rob Daniel, Gina Lelliott, Jean Lofts, Robin Muckle, Nick Pilcher, Nick Rowland, Catherine Smart, Suzie Smith and Susan Watts.

Jessica Levine. 17 – 29 Nov in AF 2.  Jessica is a member from Kent, who exhibits widely throughout the southeast.

Exhibitions Elsewhere

Alan Wright. “Light and Life”.  Alan’s stained glass, drawings and paintings
will be on show at The Isabel Blackman Centre, Winding St ,
Hastings Old Town. Mon – Fri, 9 – 5.
Sat / Sun 10 – 2pm. Private View Tue 1 Nov, 6 – 8pm.

Hastings Independent Photographers.  Tue 8 Nov -2 Dec. Includes Annette Barton, Emma Bryant, Debbie Gregory, Lin Gregory, Barry Reid and Tina Reid.

The Line Up: is holding an exhibition of contemporary jewellery and book launch at Hastings Museum & Art Gallery, 11 Nov 2011 to 19 Feb 2012.   ‘Rooms for Ideas‘ is inspired by the permanent collection at the Gallery and will be officially opened by Councillor Kim Forward, Mayor of Hastings at 6.30m on Fri 11 Nov. This will be a family event with live music provided by The Lucky Ones and a pay bar. The Line Up is :  Jennifer Kidd, Susanne Freytag, Paula Thittichai, Amy Madge, Maxime Wareham, Wendy-Sarah Pacey, Julie Tucker-Williams and Jo McAllister.
Victoria Kiff.  “Prints 2006-2007″ until 1 Dec at Netil House, Westgate Street, London E8 3KL. For further information: www.victoriakiff.weebly.com.
 
Members’ Announcements…

Marybeth Haas posts: a reminder that Ecstatic Trance Dance, a moving meditation, starts again from: Weds 26 Oct; then on 9 & 23 Nov, 14 Dec. Performing Arts Studio, (room signposted 1.029), Sussex Coast College, Station Plaza. Please sign in at reception on arrival. Times: Doors Open 19:00;  Begins 19:15, Finish 21:00, Building closes 21:15. More info: www.conscious-arts.co.uk/dance or call 01424 460477.

Vanessa Fowler posts: on Wed nights between 7.00 – 9.00pm,  Vanessa Fowler has started evening classes for adults, all levels welcome at her gallery/shop/studio at 6 Marine Court. At present there are four students. The groups are small, max six. At present making will be in terracotta allowing brightly coloured glazing. A short course of 8 hours costs £60, materials extra. Vanessa has been a tutor at the college for 22 years but has recently left to pursue her own business and art. Please check FB page: Adult Pottery Classes – St Leonards on Sea – Vanessa Fowler for further information; or contact vanessanfowler@yahoo.co.uk; or call 07732987643.

Dorothea Huntrods posts: On behalf of the Exhibitions Committee and as the curator of the Open Forum Self-Portraits exhibition scheduled for next year, I’d like to thank all the artists who have registered their interest in the two themed exhibitions planned for 2012. We have had a very reassuring response but there is still room for more! Especially from all those energetic surrealist artists out there who’ve yet to take up the challenge! Please let the Forum know by the end of November so that we can plan ahead. Curator of the ‘Surrealism’ exhibition will be announced later.

Film….

Thu 10 Nov.  7 for 7.45pm in AF 1. St Leonards Film Soc are showing “Way of the Morris”. (12 A). In this heartfelt tribute to his agrarian roots, “Way of the Morris”  follows award-winning filmmaker, Tim Planter, on a journey from the English village green to the killing fields of the Somme, as he searches for a connection with the much-maligned native dance traditions that run deep in his blood. Featuring contributions from singer-songwriter, Billy Bragg and from Chris Leslie. Future films include:
24 Nov. “JUNKHEARTS”,  which had its premiere at the 2011 British Film Instittute London Film Festival.  The advertised screening of “Tomboy” (15) is postponed to 
6
Poetry…

The Poetry Group will meet on Sat 5 Nov at 4 pm – note the earlier time this month. The theme for this session will be ‘Fire’ in recognition of Bonfire Night – although this may be interpreted as freely as you wish. As always, if this particular theme doesn’t ‘fire you up’, do feel free to choose another subject that inspires you. 
          
                   Fire
             Those reliant on prayer,                     
             Beware:
             Worms don’t care
             Whom they’re sent
             For dinner;
            And prior
            To judgement:
            Fire
            Burns equally
            Saint
            And sinner.                     © Aidan