Aesthetip january 2014

ISSUE 8: JANUARY 2014

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Hello…

Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and huge Happy New Year wishes to one and all!

2013 has now come to a close, it has been a brilliant year for launching Aesthetip.

Thank you so much for supporting us, we will be sharing some exciting news over the next few months so please watch out for updates via the Facebook page.

Each year starts with dreams of what is to come in the New Year, we start making resolutions, wishes and fresh starts. This month I have created a feature about setting goals, which may help you start your list of dreams. At the end of the day, aren’t our dreams the only thing we have to hold on to?

There is also a feature by Laura Parsons about making creative resolutions which should help many of you.

This issue is full of creative talent.

We have a wonderful feature on a local artist who works with linocuts, we have some great interviews, including one of our main contributors, and an interview with a talented photographer and that’s just to name a few of our favorites this month.

Thank you for reading, and never stop dreaming!

Emma Griffin / Editor-in-Chief

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CONTRIBUTORS EMMA GRIFFIN Editor

STEVE KENYON Deputy Editor

CAROLINE PEDLER Illustration

SILVIA MCKIDDIE Cook

MAISIE MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHER

CHARLOTTE DAVIS Artist

MARANDA STEVENS WRITER

HOLLY KENYON Writer

LAURA PARSONS Writer

CONTRIBUTE… If you would like to be featured in Aesthetip. We are looking for, graphic designers, fashion designers, illustrators, designer markers, artists, performers and photographers based in Cornwall.

If you have an event you would like to share with us, please get in touch.

follow…

https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Aesthetip/ 385560578221024?ref=hl

http://aesthetipmagazine .blogspot.co.uk/

All submissions and enquiries: aesthetip@gmail.com

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contents 08

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

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WINTER SHOWS

20 EXHIBITION DRAWING THE LINE 26

CURATORS DIARY

32 INSIGHT 38

ART OF TATTOOS

44 illustrator CAROLINE PEDLER 54 artist / dawn sheridan 60

PHOTOGRAPHER / MAISIE MARSHALL

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PHOTOGRAPHER / philip trengove

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PHOTOGRAPHER / NIK STRANGELOVE

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FASHION / tiffany couture

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FASHION SHOOT

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MEET THE MODEL

90 SPOTLIGHT 92 VINTAGE 98

GIRLS SKATE CORNWALL

102 LOOKING AT PHOTOGRAPHS 104 EVENTS 106 SETTING GOALS 108 Creative resolutions 110 VEGETABLE SOUP 111 THE PERFECT HOT CHOCOLATE 112 SILVIA MCKIDDIE

FRONT COVER MODEL / SERENE HAYES MAKEUP ARTIST / TRINA WILLIAMS HAIR STYLIST / HOLLY MICHELL PHOTOGRAPHER / EMMA GRIFFIN 6

DRESS / SHERRI MILL £450 — CARGO CLOTHING JANUARY

www.cargoclothing.com

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78 92 112

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artist of the month / amanda hunt

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What are you working on at the moment?

At the moment I am working on a commission, painting a large limousine bull called Greg and one of his heifers, they are 122cmx122cm. I’ve been drawing the Cattle in their winter shelter, taking many photos, studied their behavior and have illustrated some portraits for practice, and I am currently working on my livestock masterpiece’s of a vibrant distorted bull and a colourful perplexed heifer. I hope to complete both portraits before Christmas. Once complete I intend to exhibit them in Henly’s Bar and Restaurant in Helston.

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What has been the highlight of 2013?

This year has been a huge step forward for me, I feel I have archived the personal goals I set myself, my highlight of the year in April was my solo exhibition at Salthouse gallery in St Ives where I sold eight paintings.

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Do you have any goals for 2014?

In 2014 my aims are to produce work for an exhibition in the summer with a group of artists.

My new years resolution is to try and get into my studio more than I am. At the moment its weekdays 2-5 hours depending what distractions happen (and to stop eating crisps).

Who is your favourite artist?

My favourite artist... difficult there are so many. At the moment its Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt, after viewing the Viennese portrait exhibition at the National gallery in November.

If you could collaborate with any artist who would it be?

If I could collaborate with any artist (in a fantasy world) I would love to work with Jenny Saville. I think her work is amazing. She paints huge paintings of obese women, with distorted flesh from observations, some from plastic surgery scars. I feel Jenny Saville reinvents traditional figure painting regaining its context in art history.

Do you have any rituals to start your working day?

Before I begin work each day I have to do some form of exercise... run, cycle or swim. This enables me to get my mind in a good space to paint.

How do you get your inspiration?

I am inspired when I travel, when I look at exhibitions, when I walk in the countryside and when I look at colours. In January I am travelling to Sri Lanka which I’m really excited about, for the culture and scenery. I work from sketchbooks, photographs and sourced imagery anything I find interesting. www.amandahunt.blog.com

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winter shows / millennium GALLERY There are many great art shows on during the winter period. We selected two popular art galleries to showcase some of our favourite pieces from their winter shows.

Millennium Gallery, St Ives This years exhibition includes — Simon Allen, Chris Anthem, Simon Averill, Sarah Ball, Samuel Bassett, Trevor Bell, Beatrice Brown, Mat Chivers, Roy Eastland, Gareth Edwards, Tessa Farmer, Naomi Frears, Marcelle Hanselaar, Andrew Hardwick, Sax Impey, Amanda Williams Lucas, David Kemp, Alastair Mackie, Onya McCausland, Richard Nott, Peter Randall Page, Tim Shaw, Mark Surridge, Roger Thorp, Daryl Waller, Kate Walters, Belinda Whiting, David Whittaker, Amanda Williams Lucas, Joy Wolfenden Brown, Lisa Wright, Carlos Zapata.

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http://www.millenniumgallery.co.uk

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winter shows / cornwall contemporary

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Cornwall Contemporary, Penzance A mixed group show of works on paper. http://cornwallcontemporary.com

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Exhibition / drawing the line ‘Drawing the Line’ was organised by artist Kate Walters in aid of the charity ‘Freedom from Torture’

Lucy Austin, Lisa Wright, Nick Moore, Jesse Leroy Smith, Alex Higlett and Georgina Hounsome, Katie Sims, Simon Allen, Belinda Whiting, Caroline Pedler, It included works by Matt Bryans, David many artists who have Whittaker, Laura Menzies, donated, which will be Mark Surridge, Irene Lees, uniquely available through Nicholas Charles Williams, silent sealed bids taken Karen Lorenz, Patrick throughout the exhibition.

Lowry, Kate Walters, Supported by The Penwith Lyndsey Keeling, Sue Supporter’s Group branch Bleakley, Susan Wilson, of the national charity Michael Rees, Angie Munro, Freedom From Torture, the Camilla Peters, Nicola Moss, exhibition aims to raise Bridgette Ashton, Mathew funds and awareness for Robinson, Joy Wolfenden the charity and its work.

Brown, Louise McClary, ‘Freedom From Torture’ Jonny Hosking, Veronica started in 1985 as the Vickery, Ilker Cinarel, medical branch of Amnesty Frances Walsh, Jake Clark, International. Since that Liam Jolly, Gareth Edwards, time it has grown to a large Rachael Reeves, Faye organisation spanning 5 Dobinson, Charmaine cities, and is almost Honeychurch, Mary Fletcher, entirely funded by donations. Roy Eastland, Noel Betowski, It offers vital support to Marion Taylor, Fiona Leus survivors of torture from Lambert, Gordon Faulds, all over the world.

Jess Cooper, Nicola Bealing, Carlos Zapata, Martin ARTISTS INVOLVED Grimshaw, Chris Anthem, Kiki Smith, Partou Zia, Denny Long, Nicola Bealing, Marcelle Hanselaar, Peter Jason Walker, Caro Woods, Randall Page, Tim Shaw, Janet McEwan, Anna Gillespie, Richard Nott, Sax Impey, John Keys, Daryl Waller, Alaistair Mackie, Michael Sarah Gillespie, Tim Newman, Broughton, Kurt Jackson, Vicky Wiltshire, Pippa Young, Ana Maria Pacheco, Mat Marie Claire Hamon, Sandra Osmond, Maggie Mathews, Boreham, Barry Cottrell, Naomi Frears, Simon Phil Whiting, Sarah Gatter, Averill, Alice Leach, Catherine Harvey Jefferson, Ralph Freeman, Danny Fox, Mark Dunford, Kay Vinson, 20

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Rupert Loydell, Ann Gillies, Allen Fisher, Sally Shrubsall, Viv Allbright, Sam Bassett, Julie Brixey-Williams ARBS, Ben Sanderson, Hugh Mendes, Sandy Brown, Isolde Pullum, Ron Ford, Annie Heckman, Geoffrey Hands, Meryl Ainslie, Von Calhau, Anne Haughton, James Kinder, Jane Delap, Kirsty Lowry, Hugh Greasley, Delpha Hudson, Amy Isles Freeman, Fergal Shiels, Frooza Clarke, Morwenna Morrison and Karen Lorenz.

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A CURATORS DIARY / CHARLOTTE DAVIS

Setting the scene A broken boiler which calls for a duvet and hot water bottle with my assistant Domino Davis... And a cup of tea. Right, now I am ready to start! dRaW! In October I set up a collaborative drawing group in Truro. The mission was simple: 1. To collaborate through drawing with creative practitioners 2. T o make more creative projects happen in Truro 3. And to recover my pencil case from the deep realms of my spare room!

The first session was a massive success, seven creative practitioners attended full of intrigue and energy. This was going to be a session and space which belonged to the group every Thursday evening, where collaborations and experimentation could develop. Each mark and drawing completed would form a portfolio of collaborative processes.

This is not about individual practice.

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A warm up The first session, led by myself, broke the ice and I had great fun instigating all sorts of amusing old school techniques.

“Who fancies drawing the person opposite them with their left hand?” And as the forfeits built up pace and were passed around the circle... Sophie Capron suggested drawing “a portrait, just marking the mid-tones”...

Ok, now you’re testing us!

Questions began to develop “how do you define a midtone?”

Juliet’s sticks The buck was handed over to Juliet Walshe for the following session. Looking at her bag of tricks, we knew we were in for a little adventure! Twigs, white spirit and wallpaper lining paper. We took turns posing, whilst the group documented the human form drawing with charcoal taped to the end of a stick...

Even if we did look like a group of doddering artists with our ‘walking sticks’, we came up with some intriguing compositions and fluid marks! And as for the white spirit, I highly recommend running charcoal through white spirit on paper.... And trust me, I don’t normally go for fluid and abstract techniques, which do not permit the use of a ruler!

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A challenge Last week Sophie Capron really pushed the group out of their comfort zone.

Mixed media... drawing with cotton and ink... collage and layering of textures and the dreaded COLOUR. *Alarm bells* - Charlotte meltdown!!!

For me, this was a challenging session...

Each time I revealed a mono-print challenge Sophie commented: “Charlotte, that looks great!”

And in response (Charlotte): “.......

I like the paper?!”

As for Nick Brennan, the ‘King of Precision’ - he was in his element, dangling cotton thread in ink (with his tongue sticking out). We’re proud of you Nick; you’re loosening up.

A new year for new techniques And as for 2014... well we await Amy Albright’s and Nick Brennan’s sessions.

I wonder what they are planning? Maybe Dandy cartoons or leaf studies? This is the great thing, each session provides the framework for spontaneity, process and discovery.

It would be great to encourage similar groups in other locations across Cornwall... The ideas are bubbling!!

Defining ‘draw’ And my final thought, as I write this article... How do you define drawing?

Where are the parameters defined?

Writing Walking Speaking

Gesture and movement....

Ps – If you would like to join dRaW!, we meet every other Thursday at 7-9pm at Old Bakery Studios in Truro. Email me contact@charlottedavisprojects.com

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insight / chris anthem

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PHOTOGRAPHY / EMMA GRIFFIN

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Back in May 2012 I had the pleasure of meeting the talented artist Chris Anthem. Back then Chris was working from his studio in Krowji Redruth.

Chris is an established artist based in the Krowji building in Redruth. His studio is large, open and light, with his work spread out within the space. There are seating areas so that Chris can sit back and reflect on his work. There were notes on the walls and marks, which looked like a huge open sketchbook.

Animal skins laid flat on the wall lay alongside his paintings. I found his studio fascinating to be in. It is well used and a productive space. Chris worked everyday in his studio and a studio space is very important to him.

I found Chris to be very friendly and a talented and interesting artist.

www.chrisanthem.co.uk

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THE ART OF TATtOOS / miranda stevens From what I know of tattoos, they were introduced to us Brits late in tatau history, first brought to England via a voyage of Captain Cook’s in the 18th century.

As an import from an unknown world, their mystery and interest was explained as a form of ritualistic glue used by tribes in Polynesian territories to identify, hierarchize and bond clans and kinfolk. Not exactly what we think of today when admiring the beauty of woven letters round an arm, or of swallows across someone’s sternum.

But are tattoos today really all that different from their supposed alien ancestors?

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Here in Falmouth, tattoo parlours a somewhat seedy sounding title probably a bit outdated for today’s tattoo houses—have sprawled and spread-eagled themselves across the town as the concrete embodiment of its artistic and creative population. Falmouth is where hipsters haunt and paintbrushes collide with Indian ink, with a recent rise in the drawing and adorning of artist’s virtuosities on canvas and clavicle. A booming arts university has facilitated and exacerbated the popularity and trend of tattoos, and any rumination about a pilgrimage to London for designer inkwear is just not necessary; with waiting lists setting you back six months in some places, Falmouth has got that self-conscious edge of youthful rebellion with its well-earned status as sanctified Tattoo Town.

To me, tattooists personify personal philosophies; their existence and rise in Falmouth is one indication of the town’s eclecticism, its exciting buzz and its status as an institutionalised hub of art, culture, free love and fishermen. In that sense, today’s tattoos, in Falmouth at least, are really not that different to their hereditary counterparts; sure they are wacky and individual, random and sometimes ridiculous, but they express a large slice of Falmouth’s demographic pie chart, the slice that screams and shouts, stomps and states, that we live in a town of expected individualism. In that way, they remain that ritualistic glue for those devoted to a blind-eye attitude towards society’s dictates.

I went out and about to find some tattooed muses; hopefully they will personify my own words.

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PHOTOGRAPHY / MIRANDA STEVENS

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illustrator / caroline pedler

PHOTOGRAPHY/ GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

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We caught up with one of our biggest contributors, Caroline Pedler. So who is Caroline Pedler?

WHO IS CAROLINE PEDLER? Just a girl drawing and painting whenever she can, spreading the creative word where possible and passing on the experiences she has a long the way, in order to enhance other people’s experiences. She loves music, cool bars and cafes and anything off the beaten track and a little bit unusual, oh and her hound Bobo.

HOW DID YOU BECOME AN ILLUSTRATOR? I chose illustration because it was the only course that was just purely creating imagery i.e. drawing and painting. But after I graduated I spent the next summer recuperating from an illness and created a new folio of work. I showed the folio to a contact of my brothers, and they loved the work so my first commission was with Gordon Fraser cards (Hallmark) for a set of greeting cards.

A couple were best sellers and one sparked off a range of Christmas books later down the line for Parragon publishing, and so it started. So being in the right place at the right time with a way in, was key.

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF BEING AN ILLUSTRATOR?

WHAT IS YOUR FANTASY OCCUPATION?

Within the bigger picture I get to craft my own life on a daily basis. I also get to hang out with some really interesting and dynamic, creative people for work!

I don’t have one, I think probably because I’m doing the job I want to be doing and love it. I feel very lucky for being born a creative. It’s been passed down through both sides of my family, which is lovely.

On a smaller scale I get to buy great children’s books for my own interest and meet friends for coffee in between deadlines and go to great exhibitions.

I love saying I’m an illustrator and I’m very proud of what I have achieved in my career.

I also love teaching it now too.

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The only thing I would change is for my main income of work to be authored by myself and my own illustrations, or at least to work with a writer that compliments my authorial work. I am working hard towards this on a daily basis.

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WHAT IS THE PROCESS FROM BRAINSTORMING TO DELIVERY? In the work I do commercially, (children’s books), the brainstorming is done by the editors at the publishers to find a story.

I get the story in draft form mostly, but sometimes it’s finished with no changes to be made.

So after the story comes in, I do a series of small thumbnail sketches in pencil. I send them in to get comments back, do another series, change and add if necessary. Then when they are ready I will sketch up roughs to their actual size in pencil...wait for comments, do amendments, (sometimes the story changes at this point).

When we are pretty much ready to go ahead, I will do a set of colour thumbs, checking out colour combinations and composition etc. Then if all ok, we’ll go to art.

Send that in when they’re all finished and do amendments later if needed. I then post all of them off with a smile, tidy the studio, go for coffee and have a glass of wine with dinner, and crack on with the next project the day after.

For my authorial work my brainstorming normally starts with a compulsion to use certain colours, textures or brush strokes.

So a feeling I want to convey…using reference, videos on you tube and image searches if necessary. I have an idea of what I’m looking for, and generally do the first thing that comes in to my head. If I ponder too much it doesn’t work and becomes over thought. After warming up on a few pages, my first and most immediate responses are the most successful.

I work in my sketchbooks a lot, with scanning, designing, composing and cleaning up on the computer along the way.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING TOWARDS AT THE MOMENT? I am in the process of trying to find a place where my authorial voice has a place in the work I do commercially. After graduating from the MA Illustration - Authorial Practice at UCF, I felt like I had a new way of working and I could earn money from it. I was wrong…

It has taken so long to understand what I learnt on the course and where it would take me. I am very lucky to have made my name in an industry that is so coveted by new up and coming illustrators, so I have a really good base and reputation.

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The difference being that I am well known for a style of work that feels dated and hasn’t moved on, so I am working hard to change that, while still working heavily in it. It’s hard when demand out weighs the need for growth. So I’m currently working in my sketchbooks in order to create a new portfolio. reputation. The difference being that I am well known for a style of work that feels dated and hasn’t moved on, so I am working hard to change that, while still working heavily in it. It’s hard when demand out weighs the need for growth. So I’m currently working in my sketchbooks in order to create a new portfolio.

DOES BEING IN CORNWALL INFLUNENCE YOUR WORK DO YOU THINK? I love Cornwall I was born here and moved back home in 2005 to St Agnes on the North coast. I now live on the softer Southern side in Falmouth.

It does influence my work yes…I’m not sure how directly? My fine art work for exhibitions, yes, but not sure about my illustration work, as it is so prescribed?

I still believe being in among like-minded people is key to keep your practice alive though. I love it here and I love the people I know here. They all inspire me in all sorts of ways, on a daily basis. with the rest of the world if you want to sell yourself successfully as an illustrator. www.carolinepedler.co.uk/ carolinepedler.blogspot.com/ carolinepedler-antidote. squarespace.com

I feel calmer and at home here. I have loved all the places I have lived very much… Portsmouth, Bath and Bristol all for different reasons but nothing compares to home. I have seen Cornwall change so much. You don’t need to go across the border to experience a greater life as there are so many great things going on here, but you do need to be in touch with the rest of the world if you want to sell yourself successfully as an illustrator. With email and the Internet now you can work anywhere and with anyone. I have many clients I have never met, here in the UK and abroad.

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Artist / dawn sheridan We caught up with artist Dawn Sheridan to ask her about her work.

How did the process of lino cutting come into your practise? Was there alot of trial and error?

Some of your prints are incredibly intricate, on average how long would you spend on one piece?

I found some of my old etchings from university in the loft when we moved house and I felt really sad that they had been forgotten about, covered in dust and tatty. Something that had been a huge part of me had been buried under life and work. I had just had kids and was looking for something ‘for me’ again so I enrolled in an evening printmaking class as I had no facilities to print at home at the time.

When I decide or have an image in my head of what I want to carve I am unable to think of anything else, completely possessed, I carve day and late into the night until it’s finished. I am extremely impatient at this stage as I can’t wait to see the finished print. Large prints can take up to a week smaller ones up to a couple of days.

People I meet always say how they did Lino cutting at school but I never did.

I love drawing and mark making so as soon as I started carving lino I was absolutely addicted. It seemed to come naturally and I haven’t looked back. It feels like drawing to me with the knife being an extension of my hand.

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Do you find it time consuming or enjoy the meditation of the process?

Carving is so therapeutic and such a beautiful process transforming drawings into another form that most of the time I am so transfixed when carving there is nothing that beats it. But to say it is all fine and dandy all the time wouldn’t be a true reflection of being an artist or working with lino. There are times during the winter when lino gets cold and harder to carve that the tools don’t want to do what you want, cuts and cursing can happen!

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However, carving tends to be the best bit, it’s so frustrating when you spend hours and hours carving and then when you come to inking up the lino all sorts of things can happen, fluff in the ink, uneven application, registration issues and my favourite- the kids picking up a wet image!

All good fun!

Do you have a favorite colour to print in?

I love red and black but it depends on the image, the pheasant print for me has to be printed in a bold and striking colour yet my pigeons looks gorgeous in muted greys and lilac.

Whilst teaching at primary school did you also practice your art in any way or is it a rediscovery of an old passion?

When teaching I had no time to do any art except what I was teaching the children.

Teaching is so consuming all my creativity went into planning fun learning activities for the kids.

How did your commission for The Great Cornish Food Book happen?

Facebook! People may knock it but for me it has helped my artwork. I designed a Cornish themed label for a dog treats product (buddy love) and the publisher of the book saw my work.

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Do you have any rituals to either start or finish your working day?

Do you feel that living in Cornwall has an affect on your work?

The great thing about working for yourself you can plan your day as you like, so if I want to go for a run before printing, have several coffees, I can!

Generally I attend to any admin first, post office or emails, or update my blog if I have something new to share and then get on with printing, designing or whatever is on my to do list if I had one! I like sharing my work online but I try to have days without the computer as it hinders my creative process- it’s all balance right?

I am so lucky to live here, the landscape is so moving and there is nothing that inspires me more than a cliff walk watching all the birds diving and playing. Surrounded by campervan images I’ve managed to stay true to what I like making image wise but one day I may print a boat- but only if I want to!

Where do you see your art progressing to in the future?

I would like to spend some more time making collagraphs so a few trips to John Howards studio near Falmouth in the New Year will be needed to use his lovely etching press, my press isn’t ‘man enough’ for the job! For my lino’s I would like to develop my designs onto fabrics and then possibly other products, I have already begun to make hand printed lampshades and tea towels.

Do you have a favorite artist, if so who is it and do they inspire your work?

Just one? Egon schiele, Van Gogh and Picasso all use line and colour in a bold and expressive way I just love their work.

The human form subject is fascinating so more recent artist Andrew Salgado is another artist who inspires me.

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Do you collect or buy art?

I collect books about art!

I surround myself with children’s art, it reminds me of how art should always be.

What are your plans with your work for 2014?

To place my work in galleries.

There are a few galleries ironically up country that would like to stock my work, I have to work out costs of posting to them and commissions etc…

You do workshops and taster sessions, do you find that doing these inspires new works or is it just an enjoyable experience passing on skills?

Yes, very recently a lady on the course I was teaching carved rubbers! A lot of my work is large images and she inspired my next series of prints which I’m starting in the New Year which will be some smaller carvings which in itself will be a new challenge trying to get a detailed carving on a smaller lino.

If you were able to collaborate with any other creative who would it be and why?

Writers/authors- I’d like to cut some lino’s related to short stories.

Where do you draw on for reference material, do you do studies from life?

Mainly imagination but I have three chickens which I draw a lot.

Do you keep a sketch book of ideas?

My sketch books tend to be full of writing. I draw straight on to the lino so my drawings stay fresh.

How long have you been a practicing artist?

This is my first year full time, but it all started 2 years ago.

Where did you study art?

sheridan.dawn@rocketmail.com https://www.facebook.com/sheridanart http://www.etsy.com/shop/SheridanOriginals http://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MyStoryLight

Exmouth, part of a B.Ed course.

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PHOTOGRAPHER / MAISIE MARSHALL

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Surfing has starting to become more versatile.

People of all ages and abilities are becoming more interested in surfing.

Which in Cornwall is helping to increase the tourist industry’s economic growth.

Here in Cornwall most business rely on the Tourist industry for our economy.

And surfing is a great way to access and boost our local community’s.

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PHOTOGRAPHER / philip trengove

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How did you start by being a photographer?

I have always been interested in the arts, in creativity and self expression in whatever form it comes and have tried my hand at a few different genres. I have previously studied fine art and graphic design and undertaken writing, music and filmmaking in my own time. None of this, however, felt like an adequate way for me to express myself or felt like it really fitted me and so I became somewhat disillusioned with the creative process. I then took a more conventional career route and ended up working full-time in an office which, as you can imagine, was deeply unsatisfying. About 5 years ago and after a few years of this, I decided to quit my job and return to education full-time to study photography. I’m not entirely sure what prompted me to do this as the previous time I had undertaken photography in a module as part of my fine art studies - I was truly terrible at it.

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When I left my job I had been taking a lot of photos with a simple point and shoot camera and I guess I felt like it was the only art form left which I hadn’t explored and that it was perhaps also my last chance of finding a way to fittingly and creatively express myself. As it turns out it was the right decision.

Photography seems to work for me as a person and suits my creative process. I am confident with it like no other art form and have already been able to take it further than anything else I have tried. I do still harbour ambitions to be in a band though... like it was the only art form left which I hadn’t explored and that it was perhaps also my last chance of finding a way to fittingly and creatively express myself. As it turns out it was the right decision. Photography seems to work for me as a person and suits my creative process. I am confident with it like no other art form and have already been able to take it further than anything else I have tried.

I do still harbour ambitions to be in a band though...

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Tell us about your style of photography?

Towards the end of the third year of my degree, I actually took a change in direction with my work and have spent the last year or so defining my style and identity as a photographer.

I was going through a rough patch personally and the degree wasn’t going at all well - I was producing work I felt that I should as opposed to that which I felt a need to, going against the entire point of my undertaking photography in the first place. And then I had an epiphany moment.

My two main loves are photography and music. It occurred to me, and I don’t know why it hadn’t before, that I should combine the two and let the music inform the style and content of my work. At the time I was obsessed with a song by Patrick Wolf called “The Sun Is Often Out”, a beautifully sombre and heartbreaking song which acted as the starting point of my new stylistic direction.

I think there is a beauty in sadness and a sadness in beauty and I devote myself to exploring this in a simple yet elegant manner. There is a melancholic theme running through everything I do, even my commissioned work, which actually gives me an added sense of catharsis in the way I express myself.

This is important to me and is something I think many artists strive for with their work. Aesthetically my work is often very muted in tone or if it isn’t it is very direct. I think my fine art and particularly my graphic design education can be seen in the simplicity of my composition and use of light and shadows.

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What is the best shoot you have done to date and why?

It is usually whatever my last shoot is. I’m only ever happy with what I do for a week or two and then all I can see is what’s wrong with it and what I would do differently. The aim is to continually improve and make the next shoot the best one I’ve done. I find it hard to distance myself from my work and see it objectively. I think that the best judge of it is always someone else, which I guess, after all, is the point of putting my work out there. The hope is that the images I produce and send out into the ether not only accurately express whatever it is I’m trying to visually articulate, but that they connect with other people. I believe all artists do this in search of a sense of vindication not only in their work but also in themselves. Art is an extension of the artist themselves.

What are you working on at the moment?

I have a few things on the go. There are always the one off shoots with sitters who interest me, quite often just people I see and approach on the street. There is also my commissioned work like look books and London Fashion Week, but I have a couple of projects that I am working on.

One is a portraiture project concerning people’s emotional connection with certain songs in conjunction with my attempt to capture an honest emotional reaction, something real in a controlled situation.

It is an exploration of the juxtaposition of honesty and manipulation within photography in combination with my and my sitters love of music. The other project is a very new one where I am adding some of my own written content to my images and, while I am still undertaking portraits, I am experimenting with landscape and slightly more abstract photography. It is essentially also an exercise in not becoming a one-trick pony. Alongside my photographic practice I spend time each week working with higher education students giving workshops in studio portraiture, offering advice and critiquing their work. I was a student myself no so long ago and so find this slightly strange, but I understand the importance of constructive criticism in our development and, to be honest, feel a deep sense of vindication in my skills and thinking on photography from my interaction with the students.

What is the most exciting thing of working as photographer? What do you love of your every day work?

My work exists in two strands and both excite me, just in very different ways.

Firstly, my personal work; being able to create something which is an expression and extension of myself that has the ability to connect with other people is a special and exciting thing. Photography is the way I get to do this. It is, for me, the best tool for the job. I am a very visual person and need a creative outlet, but I also have very little patience. I have always found working in other artistic formats to be slightly laborious which could often lead to me losing focus or things getting lost in translation along the way. But the immediacy of photography, or really digital photography, allows for me to go from the initial concept to the final outcome with relative ease.

The second strand is my commercial work, the most exciting of which by far is being backstage at London Fashion Week. I have photographed at the last 5 Fashion Week and although I am very proud of the photos I produce there, it is the act of taking the photos and being part of the action that excites me more than the images themselves.

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The atmosphere backstage, particularly during the shows, can be electric. It is chaotic and everything is happening very quickly so you have to constantly be on your toes. It becomes very instinctual as it is all about judgment and timing, which can really get the adrenaline pumping.

I find photography itself to be very exciting. Photographs are very accessible to people what with them being such a large part of our everyday life. We consume photos constantly - usually without realising, we all take photos, we can all identify with them. More traditional art forms such as painting or sculpture are not felt to be quite as accessible, particularly with the perception being, whether justified or not, that there is more snobbery connected with them. Photography is so much broader than that - it exists in so many different ways; as personal mementos, as a way of consuming information, as a tool for communication, as works of art hanging in galleries and so on. It has the potential to be anything to anyone and that is very exciting. I do also, however, think that the democratic nature of photography means that not enough people understand what good photography is but, as is with all things, gifts are curses in equal measure.

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Where do you find your inspiration from?

Like I said before, I like to connect music and photography together and so I draw concepts from that, but I guess that inspiration is a more abstract thing for me to define. I immerse myself in music, literature, cinema and, basically, all manner of art which I hope, in turn, leads me to a higher visual awareness and a greater aesthetic vocabulary.

However, I can’t put myself in a situation to make me inspired, it just happens. My mind moves at a million miles and hour and is constantly ticking over so for me the idea comes at the end of a long thought process and then just acts as the start of another one. I’m as likely to have inspiration strike me whilst watching football as I am wandering round the Tate Modern. Because of this I keep a notepad on me most of the time so when inspiration does hit, from whichever direction it comes from, I have a record of it before my brain has moved on.

Have you any tips or help for people who are looking to become a photographer?

Firstly, and most importantly, photography requires everything you have, so if you’re not willing to give it that, you’re not going to get very far as a professional.

In terms of commercial photography, I think confidence and likeability are very important. The quality of your work only gets you so far and what you are actually peddling is yourself. If you don’t have belief in your ability and if you can’t get people to like you, then it doesn’t matter so much how good you are at taking photos. Remember that it’s okay to be a bit cheeky because, after all, if you don’t ask, you don’t get. Network like a fiend and put yourself and your work out there for people to notice. It is, unfortunately, more about who you know than what you know. But regardless of talent, we are all in the same boat so don’t lose faith, stick at it.

What camera do you use?

www.philiptrengove.com

I use Nikon as I find that they work better in low light and as I photograph largely using ambient or natural light this becomes a necessity. I also have a few medium format, 35m, vintage and toy film cameras, but lack of patience with analogue processes and the rising price of film means I pretty much only use digital cameras. I do love a disposable camera though, having once done a whole project at university on them.

twitter.com/PhilipTrengove facebook.com/ philiptrengovephotography

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Photographer / Nik strangelove

Nik Strangelove specialises in availablelight location portraiture and reportage using both analogue and digital 35mm equipment. He produces and sells limitededition hand prints of his personal work and exhibits regularly. Nik is currently based in the West Cornwall town of Penzance but travels widely.

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http://www.nikstrangelove.com

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fashion / TIFFANY COUTURE

Recently I have discovered a new designer in Cornwall, Tiffany Couture.

The designer decided to turn her passion into a business, designing and hand making a range of accessories including headdresses for occasions such as weddings, photoshoots, which feature over the top and an everyday ranges!

She launched her business in early December 2013 with her Christmas Autumn and Winter range. I asked Tiffany (the designer) what plans she has for 2014, “ I’m really excited about my bridal range and also creating pieces for photo shoots”.

I personally love this designer and I really like the fact that some of her designs are reversible and come in many different colour ways. https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Tiffany-Couture/1424007457816679

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MODELS / KATIE MCLOUGHLIN & ASHLYN COYNE HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST / EMMA GILES PHOTOGRAPHER / EMMA GRIFFIN HEADWEAR / TIFFANY COUTURE

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curiosity

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MODEL / Kendal Royden MAKEUP ARTIST / Neila Dawes HAIR STYLIST / Emma Bogen DRESSES / Stephanie Demelza GARTER / Anna D Souza HEAD PIECES / Tiffany Couture 82

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PHOTOGRAPHER / EMMA GRIFFIN

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meet the MODEL / laura miucci

How did you get recruited?

One of my lectures was cancelled, so I went to an audition to model for New Look in Truro. I was one of the chosen models, and then when I was asked to do the next show, I was approached by Juliet, who signed me to Impact Modelling Agency, and from there I began to establish myself by working with lots of different photographers.

What do you think makes you different to other models? What is your trademark?

I would probably say my flexibility, as I often manage to contort myself into lots of interesting positions! As for my trademark, I think maybe my facial expressions; I have so many different ones and often find myself going from a serious face to a funny one in a matter of seconds in between shots.

How would you describe your personal style?

My style mainly consists of anything I can get my hands on! I love the feel of fabric, especially velvet or silk. I get most of my clothes at car-boot sales, charity shops and hand-me-downs from my mum’s wardrobe. I like to wear quite retro or eccentric outfits; as long as I feel good in it, I’ll wear it!

Were there any struggles that you had to cope with through your career as a model?

I have been lucky enough to have had a relatively drama-free career so far, but probably one thing that has always stuck with me occurred when I was starting out.

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I had a shoot with quite an established photographer, who promised me no nudity, and then once there, they tried to pressure me into doing topless, and I really didn’t feel comfortable about that! After refusing, and shooting for a few hours with a top on instead, I was told a few days later that all the photos were useless. This knocked my confidence somewhat, and made me reluctant to shoot with someone I felt I didn’t really know.

You mustn’t shoot with anyone that you’re not 100% comfortable with, whether they’re a professional or not!

What has been your favorite shoot you have worked on to date, and why?

I don’t think I could pick just one! There have been so many iconic shoots. I think that my Jim Morrison shoot with Rebekka Werren definitely has to be a highlight for me. It was surreal to be created into one of my icons, and I loved the finished outcome so much. Another highlight was the pin-up shoot for Silly Old Sea Dog; not only was it the first time I met Emma (editor of Aesthetip), but I have loved every single Silly Old Sea Dog clothing that I have worn!

PHOTOGRAPHER / Rebekka Werren

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What are you working on at the moment?

At the moment, I am compiling some of my landscape photos for Facebook, so I can see what everyone thinks of them and how I can improve. I love being behind the camera just as much as being in front of it! Besides this, I am working on a French and History degree, whilst volunteering in Girl Guiding and fitting in as many shoots as I can; including one I have planned myself on something close to my heart, and I can’t wait to see the finished outcome.

What are your dreams and goals in your career?

My dream would be to establish my career further, and my current goal is to do more bridal work, as I haven’t had the opportunity yet, and also to do a trilogy of shoots which centre around something I am very passionate about.

I don’t care about being famous; as long as I have the opportunity to help people bring their art to life on the camera, then I am completely happy. It’s been a blast so far, and I’d love to keep doing it for a good while yet!

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PHOTOGRAPHER / Julia mcintosh

PHOTOGRAPHER / Zinzi Graham

PHOTOGRAPHER / Jessica Watts

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spotlight / hair stylist Alana rickard Why did you first get involved in the hair styling industry?

My first experience of working in the hairdressing industry, like many other hairstylists, was working as a Saturday girl in my local salon. That’s if you don’t count all the times before, that I thought I knew what I was doing when cutting my best friends hair! (we’ve all been there right?!) I had always been fascinated with hairstyling as a child but never looked at it as a career until the first time I experienced that “salon buzz”. On a busy Saturday afternoon, every stylist has a full columb of clients, there’s so much to get done but the atmosphere is so amazing that you could work all day and not get tired!

I knew then that hairdressing was what I wanted to do. So as soon as I left school, I went straight to college to get started.

What is your favorite style to create?

I love experimenting with different techniques, whether it be with colour, cutting or just styling. Every day the fashion industry is coming up with new and exciting ideas which don’t always catch on to your every day hairdressing but I have quite a few clients that are keen to try new looks. If I had to pick one it would be colouring. The possibilities are endless so I love to take ideas and run with them.

I just have to find willing participants!

Hair chalks have been massive over the summer, these have been so much fun to use as they are non-permanent. I’ve also had a tip-off that charcoals are going to be everywhere in 2014, watch this space!

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Tell us about your own business?

I am part of a team of stylists at Powercutz, one of Bodmins top salons. Apart from taking 7 months out to travel, I have worked here for 10 years, working my way up to salon manager. The great thing about working in a salon is the opportunities you have to keep up with the latest trends.

We regularly attend seminars, shows and take part in competitions. I have recently become more involved with wedding styling.

I have styled hair for lots of weddings over the years so thought I could take it to the next level and offer complete packages for bridal parties covering the whole of Cornwall. So far, its going very well. I cant wait for next years wedding season when I get to see all the beautiful brides!

You work with fashion photographers, why do you enjoy this so much?

Like any profession, It’s good to have variety to keep you motivated. Hairdressing is such a creative form of art, but lots of hairdressers dont always get the chance to express their ideas very often. With fashion photography you have a blank canvas, and nowadays endless possibilities to create a hairdressing work of art! Also when your working with a team i.e stylists, make-up artists, photographers, who share your creative passion it makes your job so much more fun and rewarding. Its also great being able to look at these amazing pictures and say “that’s my work” there is no better feeling.

What is your ideal shoot to be apart of?

I prefer the more extravagant shoots.

Putting ideas together that you wouldn’t necessarily have thought about before.

I love the high fashion side of styling but I create lots of toned down versions in the salon so its nice to do things that are completely different. I do also prefer working outside on location.

You get so many more options of where to put your models, different lighting and not to mention Cornwall’s amazing scenery!

What are your plans for 2014?

I don’t like to make definite plans for the future. I like to live in the moment, taking every opportunity that arises. I work in the present and right now that is getting my web site for wedding hair up and running successfully. I have lots of weddings booked for 2014 and ideas for many photoshoots.

Not to mention the huge list of countries that need visiting! Hopefully if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll see my name around and about!

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Fashion / vintage grunge

MODELs / TOM WATTS, MATHILDA SMITH, CARMELA WILKINS AND LIBBY SMITH VINTAGE FASHION / VINTAGE WAREHOUSE 13 PHOTOGRAPHER / EMMA GRIFFIN

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GIRLS SKATE CORNWALL / holly kenyon

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I have been busy with the Christmas celebrations but managed to grab some time on my board over the holiday. This month I have interviewed a lovely girl skater Lowenna Murley.

Why did you start skating?

I started skating because my brother started long boarding, and I guess I liked the idea because I had already been surfing for a year. When there’s no surf, skating is always there as a resort and I like that I can variate between the two, it gives me the opportunity to practise and learn new things.

What type of boards do you have?

I don’t actually have any particular makes of boards because I made my first deck about 3 years ago now.

I just didn’t have the money at the time and I really wanted to get into it, so I brought some cheap trucks and wheels in the sale online, made a really basic deck, painted it, put some grip tape on, got out on the road and started learning. Since then I have just used that deck, or when I get the chance borrow my brothers lush board or his friends, other than that I think it would be cool if I actually got a proper skateboard one day.

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How long have you been skating for?

Where’s your favourite place to skate?

I have been skating for about 3 years now.

My favourite place is probably Sennen, along the front. In the summer all of my friends are there so we all chill and hang out in the sun, surfing and skating up and down every day. Although I can’t deny, I’ve learn how to skate mostly where I live out in the country side where the roads aren’t the smoothest but the hills are definitely never ending and fun.

When you are skating does it help you relax or make you think creative in anyway?

Yeah it makes me feel relaxed because I can relate it to my surfing, so I can also be creative by trying to combine the two. Although it’s difficult sometimes because I have a regular stance on my surf board, but goofy stance on my longboard. Recently I have been trying to teach myself to skate regular as well as goofy, but it’s not quite there yet.

Do you think skating is a good sport for girls to do?

I think it would be cool to see more female skaters around, not just boys...

Although, I think if you enjoy it, it’s a good sport for anyone to do.

Do you normally skate with friends or by yourself ?

Usually I skate by myself outside my house listening to music and practising new things because not many girls I know longboard. But occasionally I longboard with my brother and his friends which is a bit of fun, especially when they try to teach me new tricks.

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LOOKING AT PHOTOGRAPHS / LIFESTYLE PHOTOgraphy

Working as a photographer I of course love photographs. But in this day in age people don’t have actual photographs, it’s all digital or stored on Facebook. I love going through old family photographs and I realised that if I don’t print off some of my recent, or even last years images my kids wont have images to look back on, like I have as a kid.

So one of the things that I am going to make sure that I personally do this year, is to print off my favorite family images each month. This also got me thinking onto giving some photography tips to our readers.

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So storage of photographs doesn’t have to be in photo albums! You can even now print off your Instagram pics as 5 x 5 square. They would look great stored in a box. You could keep you favourite images from each month in a nice box and then label the year. Or you can make your own sayings. So many options other than just an album.

This month I am going to talk about Lifestyle Photography. Before you begin capturing lifestyle images don’t get hung up about the technical side of photography.

The biggest goal with photography is to capture the things that make life sweet, the things that are here today gone tomorrow.

Real moments in life are my favorite.

They are the real moments that are special, rare and much more difficult to capture. I think that is why they are my favorite. When I get a candid photo that captures a person’s beauty, a couple’s relationship or laughter, it makes me fuzzy inside.

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The little Things…

Detail shots showing the little things are great! I often hear people making fun of others who Instagram food or coffee.

In my opinion, these little things tell a bigger story and they matter just as much as posed portraits.

Above all…

Genuine emotion is the best thing to capture. You see so many shots of a forced smile, so many people feel awkward and shy in front of the camera. Real emotions are funny, special and sometimes unexpected.

Capturing real emotion isn’t easy. It takes lots of trial and error, but when it happens it’s magic and can blew you away.

I try to bring my digital SLR with me as much as possible. There are so many moments that I would have missed if I hadn’t had my Canon with me everywhere I go. Mobile phone photography has completely changed the photography world. There is nothing wrong with using your phone as your secondary camera.

It’s a great way to capture everyday life because it’s always with you.

Just think when you get an hour out in the evening to look back through all your photographs and just smile and remember the moments.

I hope you feel inspired to take more everyday photographs during 2014!

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Event Calendar / December It’s a brand new year. A time to start fresh, adopt a positive outlook and push yourself to reach new creative heights.

It’s also a time to get inspired, so when you’re out and about this month be sure to check out some of these stimulating exhibitions.

Newlyn School of Art – Chywoone Hill, Newlyn This New Year take on a creative challenge and tackle one of the Newlyn School of Art’s engaging and inspiring courses. Over the next twelve months the artistic institution will be hosting all manner of specialist classes, covering a variety of mediums and ranging from one day sessions to week long events. With acclaimed, established guest tutors, expert instruction and awe inspiring surroundings, the Newlyn School of Art will give you the encouragement you need to polish existing talents and uncover hidden abilities.

Check out the Newlyn School of Art calendar for a full run down of all the pottery, sculpture, printmaking, drawing and painting classes coming up in the months ahead. http://www.newlynartschool.co.uk/ art-courses/

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Newlyn Art Gallery – New Road, Newlyn The solo shows of Gareth Edwards and Peter Webster will stay in place at Newlyn Art Gallery until January 18th.

Edward’s memorable sculptural installation ‘Cloud’ (constructed of wood and steel) dominates the upper gallery, appearing to grow naturalistically from a man-made backbone to great effect.

Meanwhile, in the lower gallery Peter Webster will be offering visitors a look at ‘Thirty Paintings’ – a collection of personally informed reflective works designed to both clash and interlink.

The Exchange – Princes Street, Penzance As January comes to a close The Exchange will be housing ‘Curiosity: Art and the Pleasures of Knowing’ – a Hayward Touring Exhibition. The event is organised in association with Cabinet magazine and considers the historic and contemporary creative exploration spawned during the artistic and scientific revolution of the 17th century.

For more information about exhibitions and events being held at Newlyn Art Gallery and The Exchange please visit http://www.newlynartgallery.co.uk/

Cornwall Contemporary – Chapel Street, Penzance As we panic about losing our ‘Christmas tummy’, fret about resolutions we’ve already broken and decimate the January sales, Cornwall Contemporary’s Works on Paper exhibition will remain in place. For the first few weeks of 2014 the gallery will continue to promote the wide-ranging works of fresh and established talents, such as Emma Eberlein, Jamie Boyd and Morwenna Morrison.

The Belgrave – 22 Fore Street, St Ives The Belgrave’s spectacular Yuletide exhibition is staying in put until the 8th of January, so dispel those postChristmas blues and check out the sensory overload of mixed-media pieces on display.

The exhibition is made up of paintings, sculptures, drawings and jewellery, including gems like Jennie Hancox fingerprint rings.

Tate St Ives – Porthmeor Beach, St Ives January will be your last chance to explore the watery wonder of the Aquatopia exhibition. This unique collaboration between Tate St Ives and Nottingham Contemporary unites more than 150 nautically themed artworks spanning centuries, oceans and media. In an exhaustive exploration of creative contributions to our knowledge and perception of the sea, visitors can enjoy interpretations of subjects ranging from historic shipwrecks to futuristic dolphin embassies.

Furthermore, as the gallery will be closing for refurbishment during the spring, make the most of the month and fit in at least one visit.

In the February issue of Aesthetip we’ll be highlighting a fresh batch of creative events to watch out for.

LAURA PARSONS

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setting goals It’s the start of a new year, new beginning and fresh you! I like to start a new year with setting myself goals. It’s a fun project to do and it helps me to stay inspired and on track during the busiest months of the year.

I find simple goals always seem easier to achieve and only lead you closer to a bigger goal 1. To start with make goals that are positive. Not like stopping smoking or loosing weight. You want to goals to have a positive outlook not just the end result.

2. Think long term! You can do better than that! You want a goal that’s either ongoing, or difficult enough that it may take you most of the year to accomplish it. BUT don’t set your goal so high that you can’t realistically manage it.

3. Write down your goal and display it some where you will see it. I like to write my goals in a notebook I keep on my desk. Another great option is taped up on your bathroom mirror. You don’t have to display it somewhere that others will see it, only you. But you want to be reminded of your goals.

4. Write goals that will make your life happier. These can be your work and for your daily life. Pick goal you may not otherwise get done, but that are not difficult to accomplish.

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5. Make goals that are personal to you and you life. Goals that you believe will truly make your life happier just by doing them. They can be daily, weekly or one time experiences.

Get excited! Goal setting should be an exciting time, not a chore! Keep a positive attitude, even on days you don’t feel like working toward your goals. Keep your eye on the end result and know that you are doing something that you really want for yourself.

Now have some fun with it!

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Creative Resolutions for 2014 / Laura parsons If you don’t feel as though you made the most of your creative abilities in 2013 have a read of our resolutions for the New Year. They might just give you the kick you need to take your talent further!

Forget the word ‘Procrastination’ Over the last few years the word ‘procrastination’ has wormed its way into everyday conversation to the point where no one seems to able to do anything without ‘procrastinating’ for a couple of hours first. Sadly this sort of tweet has become commonplace; ‘Meant to be heading out to take some pictures but tea, daytime TV and my duvet are calling #cosy #procrastination’. If this sounds eerily familiar, remember 2013 flew past and 2015 will be looming before you know it.

Put bluntly, time is short so stop wasting yours and tackle the important things head on. This year, swap procrastination for action, get more done with your days and free up your mind to think about your next creative mission.

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Challenge yourself There’s nothing better than the rush of satisfaction which accompanies completing a project. The more you struggled to complete the work the stronger the feeling will be, so always aim to challenge yourself and attempt to accomplish something which nudges you out of your comfort zone. If you specialise in portraiture, try focusing on landscape, if you always write poetry see how you get along with prose. By pushing yourself to try something different you could uncover a new passion, and you may find that you approach projects from a different perspective in the future.

Look for inspiration in unexpected places Inspiration really does come from the most surprising of sources, so keep your senses open to anything which could stimulate your creativity. Taking a different route to work, watching a randomly selected TV programme, searching keywords on the web, tuning into a radio station you’ve never heard of – all these things can open new doors and give you that direction or edge you’ve been looking for. Also, try and carry a notebook/camera/smartphone etc on you at all times so you’re able to keep a record of inspiring sights, sounds and situations.

Take a leap of faith Whether nurturing your creative side is essential to your sanity or a hobby you’d like to explore further, taking chances and having faith in your abilities are key aspects of progressing a creative career.

Trying to get noticed can be difficult, but don’t compromise your style or attempt to be different/experimental for the sake of standing out. If people aren’t paying your work attention, get it out there and make sure it can’t be ignored. Contact galleries, bloggers, media platforms, theatres, publications etc, establish connections and use those links to boost your profile and presence. Persistence, a thick skin, and dedication are all part of creative success, but so is self worth. No-one is going to believe in you if you doubt yourself, so make sure the pride and passion you feel radiates through your work.

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vegetable soup Homemade soup can tick the boxes for so many reasons. It’s easy to make, with very little preparation. And it’s a great way to boost your intake of Filling & Healthy vegetables to fill you up and keep you feeling satisfied. Enjoy this for lunch, either at home, on the go, at work or in the studio.

INGREDIENTS 1 litre vegetable stock made with 2 stock cubes or 2 heaped tsp bouillon powder

Pour the vegetable stock into a large saucepan. Add all the chopped vegetables. Bring up to the boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Test with the point of a sharp knife, to check.

Puree the soup with a hand-held stick blender, or transfer to a liquidizer and blend until smooth. Taste the soup, adding salt and pepper to season.

500g chopped vegetables choosing from 3 of the following:

Serve each portion sprinkled with chopped fresh herbs and a little more ground black pepper.

– onions

Good vegetable combinations

– leeks

Onion, leeks and mushrooms

– carrots

Leeks, broccoli and celery

– celery

Onion, red pepper and butternut squash

– butternut

Carrots, onion and celery

– squash

Cauliflower, onion and leeks

– broccoli – cauliflower – red pepper – parsnips and mushrooms Pinch salt and freshly ground black pepper Chopped fresh herbs, to garnish

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Onion, carrots and parsnips

the best hot chocolate ever!

Ingredients Your favorite good quality Chocolate Milk (full fat) Sugar to taste Whipped cream Cocoa powder to dust

Bring the heat up and heat to your liking. If everyone likes sugar, you may want to add it now. Serve in big mugs with a dollop of whipped cream.

Some cocoa powder dusted on top makes it look extra nice. Don’t forget to add marshmallows and chocolate shavings!

A small amount of butter Cocoa Chunks Nutmeg, cinnamon, peppermint (Optional) INSTRUCTIONS Melt butter in the pan.

Break up the chocolate and melt on a low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally to prevent chocolate sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Next heat it up the milk on the stove (in another saucepan, of course!).

When all of the chocolate is melted, (and while on low heat still) grab your whisk and add milk, little by little, and whisk away. Add more milk and keep whisking until the chocolate and milk are blended.

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Hello dears...

I would like to start my January recipe page by wishing you all a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR. It’s always exciting when a new year dawns.

I have been hitting the sales and have bought Rodney, my pug, three new outfits.

I don’t like him getting wet in the rain as a chill can develop, so all the outfits are for outdoors, so cute.

I don’t know about you, but the dawning of a new year always makes me want to decorate my house, or at least have a bit of a change about. I managed to buy in the sales a lovely upright standard lamp you know the kind of thing that was around in the 1950’s.

I also managed to purchase a beautiful pink lampshade. It has gold cherubs on it and gold fringing. Now I know some of you will be saying, has Silvia completely lost the plot, but my dears its what is called a “statement piece” and looks absolutely stunning in my lounge. I did resist buying the pink cherub cushions that went with it as standards might have been lost, a step too far!

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A new man has also walked into my life, this exciting news will have to wait until later.

I am making little biscuits for our Studio Bites this month, something that is easy and lovely with a cup of coffee. I call them Fancy Pants Biscuits.

Method Pre heat oven to 190c/375F/Gas 5.

Line a couple of baking sheets with greaseproof paper.

Put butter, icing sugar, plain flour, cornflour and vanilla extract in a food processor and blend until smooth. You may need to scrape the mixture down a couple of times with a rubber spatula.

Spoon the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Pipe an even number of small rosettes on the baking sheet leaving enough space for them to spread when cooking.

Bake in the centre of the oven for 13-15 minutes or until pale golden brown and firm. Cool on the baking tray for five minutes then transfer to a cooling rack.

For the filling, put the butter in a bowl and sift the icing sugar on top.

Add the vanilla extract and beat with a wooden spoon until very light and smooth.

Spoon into a clean piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Put the jam in a bowl and stir until smooth.

Spoon a little jam onto the flat side of half of the biscuits and place jam side up on the cooling rack. Pipe the butter cream icing onto the remaining biscuits and sandwich with the jam. When finished dust either with sifted icing sugar or drizzle plain melted chocolate over the top of the biscuits.

Well, my dears until we chat again in February, take care and keep smiling!

Yours, Silvia McKiddie XXX

Fancy

Pants Biscui ts Ingre

dients 250g/9 oz sof t butt er.

50g/2o z icin g suga plus e r, xtra t o deco rate 250g/9 oz pla in flo ur 50g/2o z corn flour ½-teas p o on v anilla extrac t Filling 100g/3 ½ oz s oft bu tter 200g/7 o z icing plus ½ sugar, teaspo on for dustin ½-teas g. p o on v anilla extrac 75g/3o t z seed less r aspber ry jam

JANUARY

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