Independent Life Magazine Issue 14 www.independentlife.co.uk
FREE
Issue 14
Summertime. And the living is easy. In the summertime when the weather is hot you can stretch right up and touch the sky. Whilst in many British summertimes we’ve had to take Mungo and Ella’s word for that, 2018 has delivered days weeks and months of sky touching weather and easy living. As the happiness of blooming flowers, outdoor eats, beer gardens, love islands, seaside trips and world cups come towards their transition into Autumn, this issue takes a look at these sunshine times and changing seasons. We hope it helps. But there ain't no cure for the summertime blues.
Cover Illustration
Poetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Laura is a freelance designer based in Yorkshire.
The Climes They Are a Changin’. . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Laura Crompton @laura.crompton www.lauracrompton.design
Leeds Eye View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Editor John Barran : john@independentlife.co.uk Fancy contributing drop him a line! Sales Sarah Laycock : sarah@indpendentlife.co.uk Anything else
All Along The Watchtower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Digger’s Island Discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Dish-covery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 For the Love of Leeds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
hello@independentlife.co.uk
A nice day for a white wedding. . . . . . . . . . . 23
Leeds For Life This summer, Independent Leeds has spread its wings to become Independent Life. This new name will continue to showcase the best that Leeds has to offer, in print and online, and now present the same elsewhere too. First stop: York. You can expect to see this magazine making its way around both cities, as well as a shiny new website and sparkling social media, all featuring vital stories, popular listings, and hidden happenings, for the independent minds of York and Leeds. Keep us close and keep returning. Welcome to Independent Life.
New York Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Taste Hunter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 With These Hands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 York Unchained. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 A Very British Summer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 What’s Up Leeds and York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Live jazz, funk, soul and blues with exceptional drinks every night, Tuesday to Sunday 6pm-3am | free entry | listings and 2018 domino sign-up: thedomino.co.uk
THE GRAND ARCADE, LEEDS WHAT'S NEW / WHAT'S ON / WHAT'S GOING ON! independntlife
independntlife
il.life
3
Words: Louis Glazzard
Words: Obi Joe
Words: Benedict Doran
365 Warm Little Days
Hosepipe Ban
A Dance with Midges
Holding dry hands on to the side of wind whipped cars and baggy eyes. Summer months last year were cooler ones but broadcasted across this Island; They are getting hotter.
don't chat to me about no hosepipe ban that's just something that i don't like man can't water my plants with a hosepipe ban a watering can? can't water my plants like a hosepipe can I'm a big man, turn tap like BLAM water then hose down all my plants
A different kind of heat sat on our ridden brows last year. Seats scolding arms, radio up loud pushing on ear drums in some alien village we all complained. York reminds you of waiting for unsent letters. Last year in a breeze you said something about sea salt getting in my rash about being human, less than holy. Our last summer was nippy kind of cold Or at least it felt that way indoors… ‘Summer loving had me depressed’ * They’re calling this year a heatwave. For the first few days you were sticky in bed Wondering why you’re having unwarranted fever dreams and a voicemails to ‘drink plenty of water dear’. Its steaming down south. Summers a time to show you different kinds of love with arms in arms, third times a charm. His accent reminds you of home and you never did feel safe in the country… ‘Summertime and the living is queasy’ * Every place has an empty old face. The eyes of the Abbey at Kirkstall hang and a gate as a mouth means no exception. With your new love this summer you forgot you were waiting for those letters. On the streets of Leeds Accents wailing and sky sitting nice like hands on the ice cream headache of Headrow, You thought that having a reputation in the heat of this city makes it home… ‘What a difference a year makes, 365 little warm days’
why chastise man? saying I'm bad for the environment I wanna use a hosepipe, that's my plan I don't wanna carry my can round by hand Them arrive in a white van Come try cuff me where I stand But I stay strong as a tough titan This is my garden this is my land Can't shut me down won't be silent Might be violent They wanna take my sprinkler But I take no prisoner I get dark and sinister If there's a limit to How long I run my water for Don't want no visitor Get away from my sycamore Cause I'm really sick of ya they put a restriction on how much i use my sprinkler system I wanna be different, not the villain the victim water coming straight from the tap in the kitchen Trying to tell me to fill up a cistern mind made up in my infinite wisdom Gotta rise up gotta fight the system Look, it’s all bought and paid I don't wanna save it like Water Aid so don't come at me with all the hate I'm all for debate but I already paid an extortionate rate I don't know what difference it’s all gonna make plus I don't know how long this bans gonna take How long this ban gonna last? The effect on garden could be vast Take a look at my lovely grass It could dry up big ugly patch I mean I got no choice ta My soil needs moisture It’s getting like the Sahara
I’ve let the sun hug my skin, While I sat beneath the rays And watched clouds turn to shapes Underneath this ball of fire. I’ve traversed across the moors Watching light falter and turn to crimson sky. A view stretched out on a desolate canvas Mountains create silhouettes of amber.
It has been the summer of content. Where we kiss and stare Ash flumes into blue skies and vapour trails To see skies bleed and burst blue Where reservoirs become pools, To soak in the multicolour life, In the summer where we breath easy, And the smell of grass always lingers.
I sit among the midges Food chars from flames And fire funnels and flares and smokes, and black coal turns to ash.
The forest walk finds the ground dry and hard, And our passing smiles seem to mean a little more, And eye contact is more than awkward silence, As we share a mutual love for a passing beat.
The shirt will no longer be comfortable And my sweat will run like tears Dripping down my chest and tired eyes Shedding summer with a squinted stare.
I will turn my face, More into the sky than ever before, As I relax in these final months of summer, Before the the final setting of a bleeding sun
Where will I be in the next three summers
Perhaps I myself will spread, Like the sky when burst in its final moments. Blurring the palettes of the horizons. Securing a path uncertain.
Will my fingers still clutch my knuckles? Will my bare feet still rub against blades of green And turn my soles brown and black? * Morning sounds from a cracked window, And this bed is never made. A sun kiss keeps away the cold shivers, To move and draw shadows from the shade
With more colours than we’ve ever seen. With more sounds than we’ve ever heard. So we dance and pound our feet. Our final farewell to the summer heat.
Sand filled shoes left barren and seperated Passing screams drowned by a coming tide Salt water, toes hugged in seaweeds and shells Stuck on jagged stones that bruise my feet Oh, a night never felt so warm And friendship never felt so easy Convinced all what is needed is this To be lost in here where there’s nothing but.. And I mourn this summer bliss. A god forsaken state of happiness It’s haunted by silence, captured in humidity And found hibernating in the summer heat It lasts for eternity For as long as you and I will be alive. But I’m calm in this time where all we do is live. Happy that the moment won’t watch over you or I.
5
Words: Clare Martynski @cmartynksi Illustration: Henry Makin @henrymakin
The Climes They Are A Changin’
In many ways, the recent heatwave that has brought weeks of sunshine and warm temperatures to Yorkshire has been glorious. We’ve been crowding the beer gardens, frequenting the ice cream vans and picnicking on scorched grass. We’ve been able to enjoy outdoor events across our fair city without the usual fear of damp shoes or a shortage of layers. (If only we’d remembered the sunscreen.) Even trips to the supermarket have taken on a different quality: leaving a chilled store into the baking street evokes memories of disembarking a plane in the Costa del Sol. But after weeks of relentless heat, some of us become a little bit nostalgic for our trusty Yorkshire climes. Particularly when there’s a major fan shortage.
Love it or hate it, the recent heatwave has certainly sparked more than the usual talk about the weather, both in the pages of newspapers and over a pint at the local. Interestingly, the topic of climate change seems to have popped up more often this summer too. Is this recent hot weather due to climate change? Frustratingly, it’s not something we can answer in any simple way. Firstly, it’s important not to overlook the difference between weather and climate. Weather is the short-term conditions of our atmosphere, or in other words, what we experience day to day. Climate is the much longer-term trend - over a stretch of 30 years or more - that underlies these conditions. When we talk about climate change, we’re referring to the long-term warming trend that scientists have been observing - of the 17 warmest years on record, 16 have occurred since 2000. independentlife.co.uk
There’s an important, but complex relationship between weather and climate. Recently published research suggests that climate change made this heatwave roughly twice as likely, although according to Professor Piers Forster, Director of the Priestley International Centre for Climate, based here in Leeds, the role of climate change in the recent hot weather is unclear. Professor Forster went on to say, “Whether or not this heatwave was climate change driven is somewhat irrelevant though. We know that around the world climate change is making heatwaves much more common and more severe. And in 10-20 years, our average summer will be this hot (although not necessarily this dry).”
7
An increase in the frequency and severity of extreme weather is something we’re beginning to observe across the world. In Yorkshire, this means that our hot days will be hotter and our wet days will be wetter, with a significant risk of flooding from heavy downpours. Both extremes pose big challenges to infrastructure in our region, including the transport, power and water systems. If this all seems a bit apocalyptic, I apologise. But now is the time for pragmatism. And if there’s anything I’ve learnt in the years I’ve called Leeds my home, it’s that the people of Yorkshire do pragmatism like no other. The city is already taking significant steps in the right direction, both in terms of preparing for more extreme weather and in reducing emissions to limit these extremes. For example, the pioneering Leeds Climate Commission, launched in 2017, is bringing together key organisations from the public, private and third sectors across the city, to promote the necessary actions towards a low carbon, climate resilient future. The scale of the challenge means it’s time for all hands on deck, and luckily there’s a lot we can do as individuals to get us on the right track. Eating less red meat can reduce the amount of emissions from livestock and curb deforestation of land for grazing. Taking fewer flights is another big win – and why travel far when we have God’s own county right here on our doorstep? One of the biggest but rarely suggested changes you can make is how you use your money. Not only in choosing to buy products and services that have less negative environmental impact, but particularly, if you have pensions or investments, where you choose to invest it. And happily, we can still enjoy a pint or an ice cream in the sunshine.
Fri 24th Aug • 10pm - 4am
Sat 6th Oct • 6pm
Sat 10th Nov • 6pm - 10pm
The T Party - Leeds
The Decemberists
Bjorn Again
Thur 11th Oct
Sun 11th Nov
Sat 15th Dec • 8pm - 1am
Tom Grennan
Kurt Vile & The Violators
An Evening with Alaska Thunderfvck 5000
Sat 13th Oct • 6.30pm
Wed 14th Nov
Toots and the Maytals
St. Paul and The Broken Bones
Tue 28th Aug
Sun 14th Oct
Thur 15th Nov
St. Vincent
Daughtry
Leon Bridges
Fri 7th Sep
Tue 16th Oct
Sat 17th Nov • 6pm - 10pm
Thur 18th Oct
Mon 19th Nov
Rudimental
Slaves
Sat 20th Oct • 6pm - 10pm • SOLD OUT
Wed 21st Nov
Trevor Nelsons 90s RNB Summerjam + Plus Dru Hill + Sisqo
Sat 25th Aug • 7.30pm - 11pm
Definitely Mightbe A Tribute to Oasis Fri 14th Sep
The Southmartins
(Tribute to The Beautiful South & The Housemartins) Sat 15th Sep • 6pm - 10pm
Tom Odell
Editors Tue 23rd Oct
Elvana: Elvis Fronted Nirvana
Luisa Omielan
Tue 18th Sep • 12pm • Free entry Wed 19th Sep • 12pm • Free entry
Thur 25th Oct
Freshers Fair 2018 Fri 21st Sep • 7.30pm
KickThePj
Fri 21st Sep • 11pm
Ultimate Power Sun 23rd Sep
The Notorious B.I.G - An Orchestral Rendition Of Ready To Die Thur 4th Oct
Reverend and The Makers
ticketmaster.co.uk
Bugzy Malone Mon 29th Oct
The Feeling Tue 30th Oct • 6.30pm
Dr John Cooper Clarke
You Me At Six
Fri 21st Dec
Cast
Tue 22nd Jan 2019
The Streets Sat 26th Jan • 10pm curfew
Miz Cracker Tue 29th Jan 2019
Death Cab for Cutie Sat 2nd Feb 2019 • 6pm Thur 7th Feb 2019
Mon 26th Nov
Sat 16th Feb 2019 • 6pm
Jessie J
Jungle
Thur 29th Nov
Tue 26th Feb 2019
Mogwai +The Twilight Sad
Miles Kane Sat 1st Dec • 10pm curfew Wed 5th Dec
Killing Joke
First Aid Kit
MGMT
Enter Shikari
Sat 3rd Nov
Thur 8th Nov • SOLD OUT
Sun 16th Dec
Sat 24th Nov • 6.30pm
Cypress Hill
Lewis Capaldi
Love Train – X-Mas Disco Ball
+ Marmozets + The Xcerts
State Champs
Wed 7th Nov
Fri 14th Dec
The Dead South
Blue Oyster Cult
+ The Temperance Movement Sun 3rd Mar 2019
Trixie Mattel
Ocean Colour Scene
Sat 30th Mar 2019 • 6pm
+ Martha Reeves & The Vandellas
Fun Lovin’ Criminals
Sat 8th Dec • 10pm curfew
Tue 23rd Apr 2019
Tue 11th Dec
Fri 28th June 2019
Hannah Peel with Tubular Brass Dropkick Murphys All Saints
The Dreamboys
o2academyleeds.co.uk
Photos: Tatiana Hepplewhite ï… @mydearyorkshire
LEEDS EYE VIEW
11
All Along The Watchtower PERKY PEACOCK
@theperkypeacockyork
Perky Peacock is based in a building that is over 600 years old and was used to help defend the city as well as raise tolls for the use of the river Ouse - this being prior to permanent bridges across the river.
GATEHOUSE COFFEE
@gatehousecoffee
Gatehouse Coffee, built into the stony embrace that is the wall of this city, is indeed unique. Watching the world pass under and feeling excitement every time customers patter up the weathered limestone stairs to our imposing medieval door, we are ready to share our offerings, both of fine coffee and our incredible historic location. Whether seasoned regulars or exuberant tourists, it is always a privilege to share our special little part of the amazing city that is York.
Three cafes situated in historic buildings above the ancient city walls give a heightened perspective across York from their view from the bridge.
DYLS BAR & KITCHEN
@dyls_york
Dyls Bar & Kitchen is located in the stunningly beautiful Gothic toll house on Skeldergate Bridge. I like to think we have the best riverside terrace in York! Family run, we re-opened in summer 2017 after an extensive renovation and contemporary re-design following the disastrous boxing days floods. Since then, Dyls has quickly re-established itself in a city that is not short of excellent bars and restaurants, through its quirkiness, live music and relaxed ambience. Situated at the gateway of York as you walk alongside the Ouse into Tower Gardens, we start the day as a brunch and coffee stop – and when the afternoon sun hits the terrace, it tempts out the cocktails and gins! Spirits of another kind have a long association with the area – Dick Turpin is purported to haunt the
path on horseback with his black cape and tri-corn hat – and the gentry, including the Earl of Stafford, used Tower Gardens for duelling and settling scores. Staggering figures and blood curdling screams are heard regularly – though not all belonging to ghosts! The bridge was the third of the modern road bridges to cross the Ouse – it first opened to pedestrians on 1st January 1881 – and if its style looks familiar, the original architect Thomas Page also designed Westminster Bridge in London. Its most northeastern span used to open to allow tall ships to reach the busy quaysides upstream and last opened in 1975. It was formally declared toll-free on 1st April 1914 – an event that was celebrated in true Yorkshire style with a regatta and a party at Dyls Bar & Kitchen.
Regardless of being a local to the UK or hailing from farther abroad, all enter surprised and enchanted by our spaces, both indoor and outdoor. No matter where you look there is history and character carrying you back in time, making it easy to imagine oneself as a watchman within the watchtower hundreds of years ago.
The cafe is 9 years old, although has changed ownership in the last month. Our ethos is to have a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, appealing to both regulars and tourists. Positioned just off Lendal Bridge at the railway station end gives a fascinating view of the tourists visiting the city. As we are by the river, it's not always easy to find, but the perspective it provides of York is definitely worth it when you do. York is a fascinating tourist attraction that appears to be visited by more customers year by year, and we hope to help this by offering local produce and home made fare as well as a renowned coffee selection. Being a grade 1 listed historical building is special, as very little can be done to alter the structure, but this ensures it retains its character and charm. And having a ‘dungeon’ underneath the coffee shop is great for storage - and unruly customers!!
Being a hidden gem off the beaten path, which is not without the challenges of being away from the bustle of the high street, always brings a valuable perspective. It keeps us grateful for our unique location and for every single customer we have the pleasure of serving and partaking of people's enjoyment brings a huge satisfaction. Within the aged walls thrives passion for artisan coffee and people. From our beginnings as a church coffeeshop we desire for people to remember us for more than just a unique setting, but also to walk away blessed and satisfied by service, coffee and food that are all lovingly made. Gatehouse has become a staple for nestling in on a rainy day or enjoying the summer sun from our rooftop or barbican seating. It has become a part of York not to miss.
Ok, we made that last bit up!
independentlife.co.uk
13
Words: Andy Pye @BalearicSocial Photos: Kirsty Garland @ photogarland
Digger's Island Discs
QUINTUS PROJECT Night Flight
I first heard this when Moonboots played it at Joe’s Bakery at Dock St Market in 2010, I recorded everyone who played there at the time on mini disc. I’d asked Richard about the record, and on searching for the LP it turned out to be pretty expensive, and still is. The LP was originally released on NGM in 1987, and in 2011 Night Flight got a 12’’ release via Derwin Recordings. Alongside the original came additional mixes, one from Lexx and the other 14 minutes from Psychemagik. 7 years on from the release of this 12’’ and it never ever fails when played that someone will ask what it is, I’m not sure Psychemagik will beat this remix it is that good and is a firm staple in the record bag.
MARC AND THE MAMBAS Sleaze (Take It, Shake It)
Digger's Island Discs explores the collections of Leeds' most prolific vinyl slingers and groove bringers to present us with the records they could not live without. This time Balearic Social’s Andy Pye selects five discs from three decades of discovering and sharing great music. You can keep up with Andy’s awesome sounds through Balearic Social radio show every Sunday on Soundcloud and at Disque 72 Social Record Store in Outlaws Yacht Club.
First release for Marc Almond as a fan-club-only song in 1982 but not heard by my ears for a long time after. Craig Christon turned me on to this B-side some years ago, and as he put it, it’s a secret weapon of a track. PIERRE MOERLEN'S GONG Breakthrough
Back in 1990 amidst the acid house scene I worked for a couple of local bands in Leeds, one being The Bridewell Taxis. Bassist Simon Scott was also a great DJ, and on our many road trips to gigs Simon would compile mixes on cassette to make life a bit easier as we travelled. Pierre Moerlen's Gong came about after Daevid Allen left the group, and a pretty much wholesale change of line up appeared on this album, their sixth release. Breakthrough opens the LP, and from the first time I heard it on the cassette mix Simon put together I had to get a copy. I also have a thing for great artwork, and this cover reminds me of a Salvador Dali painting, abstract but great on the eye.
If you check online it’s still going for a pretty penny, but like a lot of records they turn up in places you may not expect. Whilst going through a box of what was labelled Jazz at Relics in Leeds, this was shoved at the back of the box for the princely sum of £5. What the record showed was the early sound of what would become known as Soft Cell but this has a slightly 4am drug chug vibe to it.
OST
Performance
On moving out of my mum’s in the early 90s I shared a house with a group of mates, prior to that I used to spend a fair amount of time at the flat they shared in Harehills. Alex Cox used to do a Sunday night thing on BBC 2 called Moviedrome between 88-94, and one of the films we recorded (on VHS) was Performance. Now I have seen this film so many times I have lost count, and if you have seen it you know why it's a repeat watch. Shaun Ryder was an obvious fan as he plagiarised a fair bit for tracks on the Happy Mondays’ Bummed album. It is almost like a circus show with so many different characters and the soundtrack fits perfect.
independentlife.co.uk
Pretty much made up of Jagger/Richards & Ry Cooder tracks with Merry Clayton & Jack Nitzsche also contributing to what is my favourite soundtrack. Memo from Turner is the stand out song, but also Performance by Merry Clayton & Bernard Krause, although only 1 min 47 secs, from a visual aspect of Jagger cavorting around the room with a neon light.
YARGO
The Other Side Of Midnight
Anthony H Wilson introduced this to me in 1989, well not personally, but when you’re up at 3am watching music programmes and this is the theme tune… well, you get where I’m coming from. Mr Wilson had this early hours programme The Other Side Of Midnight where he showcased lots of Manchester bands. Happy Mondays, Inspiral Carpets & The Stone Roses all appeared on the show and that’s where I first saw the Roses in Jan 89. This track became a bit of an anthem at Ricky’s in Leeds and a quick search on You Tube tells you just that. Nearly 30 years on, it still sounds as good today as it did then, and a few years ago whilst playing for Seekmagic at the Tanners in Newcastle I played it and it went off!
In association with
15
Words: Camille Boulais-Pretty Photos: Tours In A Dish @toursinadish
SUPER FRIENDZ PRESENTS MUSIC FROM
YELLOW DAYS
Dish-covery
BENNY MAILS • GRAND PAX + MUCH MORE T.B.A
DJS
NATURAL SELECTION REPULSIVE WAX CLUB • EQUALISER BRUDENELL GROOVE • SIMPATICO SLUT DROP • FLUX • TIGHT LINES DIG TRIO • DOCK HEIST UNIT • 8MANA MARKETPLACE
WELCOME SKATE STORE • BLUE RINSE JUMBO RECORDS • COLOURS MAY VARY NORTHERN MONK • NORTH STAR COFFEE AWESOME MERCH FOOD FROM
PATTY SMITH’S • DOUGH BOYS THE GRAVY TRAIN • SUGAR SPUN SISTERS RUBY’S STREET KITCHEN
SATURDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER BELGRAVE MUSIC HALL FREE ENTRY • 11AM-3AM
The first words of greeting I received when landing in York ran something like this: “Luv’, up here in Yorkshire we have just two seasons; 3 months of Bad Weather and the rest, well, the rest, we call them Winter.”
independentlife.co.uk
Well, dear Tim, I’m afraid this year has finally proved you wrong. With days of endless sunshine, beautiful blue skies and abounding heat, this Summer begs for glasses of crisp cool drinks, alfresco dining and hours spent indulging in what my travels have helped me identify as the Supreme Art of La Dolce Vita. I first came to York from Canada to study Archaeology but, quickly enough, it is the buoyancy of the city’s culinary scene that captivated me, much more than the depths of the city’s mysterious and undiscovered past ever rose up to haunt me. Since March 2017, I have been busying myself with leading Food Tours in York, indulging in a few hours of happy chatter with guests as we ate and drank our way through the city to slowly unravel all her hidden stories and unearth a few of her secret foodie caches. On days where tours did not run, however, and where the drudgery of admin tasks did not cloud over the sky, I would take to town myself, making it my mission to seek out the best spots to revel in the rare Summer’s sun and fill up on some much muchneeded Vitamin D. How difficult a mission it was…
17
If the sun was particularly bright, the next stop would invariably be Trinacria Café, down on Bishy Road, where gelato is true indulgence and seems to put everything back right back in its place.
The day would inevitably start in York’s own French Riviera, at Manion & Co, a lovely little deli serving up beautiful, wholesome food created with locallysourced products and a continental flare. I nibbled happily at my almond croissant while sipping on coffee (served alongside a crisp biscotti which, by the way, might just put the Italians to shame) in the courtyard which once belonged to the family’s greengrocers. Summertime, and the livin’ is easy. Once well caffeinated, I would move on and meander slowly amongst York’s cobbled streets, up to Kings Square where buskers would be setting up for the day ahead, down St-Andrew’s gate, marvelling at how quickly one could get away from the hub and buzz of the city. Arrived at Bartle Garth, my feet would take me left and there I’d be, seated once more at a quaint table in front of Bedern Hall, York’s most hidden (and perhaps most haunted) Guildhall. Roger would be out in a minute, and after a bit of a chat, I’d be served with tea and spreading thick cream on fresh scones. Home-grown Blackcurrant jam? Yes please.
By then, I would often call up on a friend to join and help out with the rest of the day’s eats and drinks. Meeting in the Shambles, we’d stop by Bluebird Bakery for a bit of bread or, my favourite, their Savoury Danish. At the Shambles Tavern we stocked up on a few bottles of (Yorkshire-made) Kinoko Kombucha, a very refreshing drink made from fermented tea. In the Shambles Market, we’d pick up fruits and veg and maybe a crêpe or a falafel wrap to share from one of the street food stalls. Arrived at the Museum Gardens, we’d unwrap the picnic and begin the feast -- and we never forgot to grab a few pork pies at Appletons Butchers on the way.
You might be quite full by now, we understand, so a walk on the Walls is definitely in order. While strolling around, you notice a beautiful garden and there, propped around a bright green table, two friends are having a drink. Spotted! Here we are, sat in the gardens at The New School House Gallery and sipping on a Negroni cocktail, perhaps a bit of wine, a cold beer or, of course, a welcome glass of G&T. It’s only after two years that I discovered how to actually even get into these gardens and the gem I uncovered truly is a very special one.
The sun is lowering slowly now and the day is coming to an end, so once again, we re-embark on the walls onwards to the final destination. On Gillygate, an unassuming and very busy street, Love Cheese offers you a secret courtyard with views on the walls and the Minster up ahead. Here, you can sit in the garden while nibbling away at a board stock-full with cheese and a row of wines to pair. The Minster bells ring, the evening breeze sweeps at the air of gold and you think that York is, really, our own secret sort of a French Riviera.
19
Words: Dawn Wood @FabricationLS2 Photos: Leodis, Phil Watson and Stank Hall
For the Love of Leeds
Although most people now know me for running Fabrication, I also have my own business as a fashion designer and make historical clothing for museums and films too. As such, I spend a lot of time researching history, timelines of places and people to recreate them accurately, and have a love of old buildings and over the top architecture; something Leeds has in abundance, with its ‘look at me’ Victorian decorations, nestled alongside timber frames. Our first Fabrication workshop was a little 18thc hovel next to the Corn Exchange and we spent a long time on Secret Leeds researching its history, discovering the area had been full of cottage industries such as tailoring, lace and shoe making through the 19thc., so felt a great continuity with the area. We sadly had to leave there in 2015 following a fire next door, and amid the panic of the move was excitement that the 12thc Hospitilium had been found and the Hills building had 14thc painted timbers with a 16thc frontage.
I’ve a confession: I’m not a Leeds girl. I was born in Barnsley and raised in Huddersfield. But Leeds was the place I came to as soon as I was allowed.
One of my favourite places I spend my spare time at is Stank Hall in Beeston, where I’m co-chair of the Friends group. The hall dates back to 1280, and is most likely the oldest house in Leeds, although derelict at the moment, we’ve also found earlier remains. It is owned by Leeds City Council and we open the 15thc barn once a month during the summer, and also operate a community grow scheme on part of the grounds.
My best friend Anne and myself would come over for the day from the age of 14 and spend hours wrapping ourselves in kimonos and feather boas, stroking beaded fringing and spraying on exotic perfumes, in the clothing heaven that was Boodleam in County Arcade. All the while I’d dream of having my shop in the same area selling my clothing. We would go for an exotic Chinese set menu lunch, in a little restaurant on Upper Briggate, and complete the day in the Corn Exchange.
We’re currently looking for a new shop for Fabrication and have had great fun nosing around some interesting buildings. One in particular may also turn out to be 14thc and as one of the original burbage houses has many centuries of independents selling from there. We’ve put an offer in so keep everything crossed it will again.
As I got older, Leeds became the place to come for unusual clothing; my friend owned Funny Wonder under the bridge on Lower Briggate, we’d buy surplus clothing from the army stores on the Headrow, then head out to the Warehouse or to see bands such as The Cure, Bauhaus, and our style icon Siouxsie, at the great tramshed of Queens Hall. To me, Leeds was always a city of independents worth seeking out, and it still is. I moved away to work in London, but when I headed back north, Leeds was the place I chose.
independentlife.co.uk
21
Header Photo: Jamie Sia @jamiesiaphotos
It’s as good as sold with Parklane Properties
A n i c e d ay fo r a
white w edding The world of weddings is one that has remained rooted in traditions for centuries
FEW ESTATE AGENTS CAN CLAIM THAT ON AVERAGE, 98%* OF THEIR SELLERS ACHIEVE THEIR ASKING PRICE. EVEN FEWER CAN SAY THEY’VE BEEN SELLING PROPERTIES IN LEEDS FOR OVER 40 YEARS.
Now, a new way of working and new wave of workers are lifting it into the modern day. Whilst respecting the past and maintaining its magic, a more relaxed and personal approach by wedding designers and marriage makers is adding a bespoke service and a whole lot of love. Seven of the best from around Yorkshire take us behind the veil...
Sam
@bears_pantry
Bears Pantry - Caterer
WE CAN. List smart with Parklane today parklaneproperties.com 0113 237 0000
Bears Pantry started off the back of an obsession with food. I used to work in the marketing industry and became a bit disillusioned with it all so I decided to retrain and get into something completely different. The catering industry is great, although bloody hard work! We have always got something different going on and amongst the private and corporate events we do we somehow squeeze in roughly around 40 weddings a year. We try to use independent businesses where we can, and most of our suppliers are local - but in terms
of what is most important for us is making the food a memorable event itself Weddings especially, it’s such a huge factor for our couples. Everybody who works at Bear’s Pantry loves eating, so we are constantly trying to make what we do a bit different. We’re not scared to try new things and bring them to the kitchen. It would be a lot easier to do what everybody else does, but we have our own style and a passion to create innovative dishes intended to wow our customers and their guests on their special day.
*in 2017 independentlife.co.uk Independent Leeds Ad V3.indd 1
01/08/2018 15:59
23
Jamie
@jamiesiaphotos
Jamie Sia Photography - Photographer Before I started in photography I was a Computer Scientist for British Aerospace! Yep, quite a change from what I do now! About 7 years ago I was made redundant and decided to follow my passion, which was of course photography. I initially started photographing families, but was soon asked by friends if I didn't mind photographing their weddings; I did a couple and then caught the wedding photography bug. I absolutely love photographing my couples’ special day, it's an honour and a privilege to do it. My main aim is to be part of the day as much as possible, as well as capturing all the moments that happen throughout it. My photography has been described as natural, candid and documentary. I'm not so keen on staging things and so take photos of moments as they happen. As a wedding photographer, I have a key role in the way the day runs, almost like a wedding coordinator.
K e e ly
When I started Luna, there were not many shops for modern brides, and I was conscious that I stood out from traditional styles. Now, different looks have quickly become accepted, and more brands are popping up with minimal boho wedding dresses, such as the Beach dress and the Lolita 2-piece, which are my most popular designs. Choosing and trying on your wedding dress is such a big deal in someone’s life, so I always try to put brides
@leafycouture
Leafy Couture - Florist I usually have a meeting with my couples in person where we talk about their day and what the schedule may be, make suggestions on timings, and generally get to know them as much as I can. On the day itself, I start with bridal preparations and my second photographer goes with the groom and then we follow them all the way through the day, so it's usually on to the ceremony and then the reception and finally the first dance and the party after! I think it's really important that you know your couples and vice versa, the couples know you. Getting on with your suppliers is really important, as they are going to be such a big part of your day. My main mission is to come away from a wedding as being a part of their friends and family, a mission I always complete!
@luna_bride
Luna Bride - Wedding Dress Designer From a young age I was always making things and it was my dream to have a clothing shop. After completing an arts degree which specialised in fashion, I straight away set up a brand designing and hand making dresses. Lots of people started asking me about wedding and bridesmaid dresses, and it became a natural progression, where I could put more love and time into each item.
Sarah
at ease by creating a special experience in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. As I am in contact with the bride throughout the process, we have a unique friendship, and it’s amazing to be an important part of their day! That can also make it stressful, to get everything spot on, no exceptions. Every dress is bespoke, made to measure, and individual for that bride. Whether we design one together or they choose a gown from my collection, it is always very personal and made exactly for them. Every decision is based on: Is it the best option? Is it ethical? I’ve met some really talented people within the wedding industry through collaborations with photographers, florists, hairstylists and more, both locally and around the world. It’s a lovely way to help each other and it’s great support for everyone’s talents to come together and shine!
I come from a background of art teachers and a super creative upbringing. My childhood was spent being dragged round art galleries and being around inspiring people! I tried to hold off my creative path and completed a degree in sociology. Then I stumbled upon Floristry after being given a beautiful bunch of flowers by a friend; I was failing at a temp job in a bank and was dazzled by the beauty of the blooms. After research and a college course in Floristry, I gained my qualification and worked in a couple of shops, but my heart lay with weddings. I set up leafycouture in 2006 in my mums basement, which I soon outgrew and have had a few workshops around Otley; now we are onsite at the new fabulous wedding venue luxury barn Wharfedale Grange. There is a field here too, where we are growing our own flowers, and a school for flower lovers and florists. Throughout doing this, we have gained great knowledge of the stunning venues around Yorkshire, and love to collaborate on shoots and projects. The wedding industry is a super exciting place full of amazing suppliers. The Floristry industry is changing all the time, with more of a focus on the environment, locally grown flowers, and so many
Jack
more combinations can be had. We love seeing new products coming in to the market all the time. Holland is the biggest importer and exporter of flowers and we work closely with our suppliers to get the best for our weddings. The wedding season changes every year, in the past it was only Summer that was busy, now it’s all year round. Some clients book years in advance, and others only months. It’s a great time to get married now, as anything goes, with traditions being embraced to suit the couple marrying. We love a challenge and have worked all over: in marquees, barns, art galleries, private houses, and even on the Orient Express! We cover weddings all over Yorkshire and beyond, and quite simply love what we do. It’s a far from glamorous job, with early mornings and heavy lifting, but the rewards are huge, and it’s a wonderful creative outlet. Our clients are amazing and we love creating floral installations to make their days have a big wow! It’s vital to really listen to them; we offer a bespoke service so our clients get something special and unique to them. Flowers to us help to create the feel of the day; scent is really important for the memories you are creating.
@nakedtimberjack
Naked Timber - Furniture Designer My dad is a carpenter and I started out by learning a lot from him, as well as watching instructional youtube videos. Later on, I went to college and gained my joinery qualifications, whilst also working for a joinery business. It was valuable experience but not the creative work I wanted to do, and as I was already making my own furniture designs throughout this, I began Naked Timber. My ethos is to replace throwaway, mass produced furniture with something that is handmade, bespoke and good quality. A working week can include a variety of jobs, from making tables for domestic orders to fitting out commercial interiors. After building a mobile
independentlife.co.uk
bar for Mason’s Gin, shop fitting for Jakeman & Green, and creating interior for Theakston’s Brewery, I realised that what I do could translate to weddings. I saw the opportunity to replace boring furniture and props at weddings with more interesting, higher quality, bespoke pieces that suit the couple’s needs. There is a market for nice looking décor that brings a more unique and individual feel, rather than the standard wedding with white table cloths. The modern wedding scene is increasingly becoming more individual and moving away from the traditional. This is where I fit in.
25
Megan
@jakemanandgreen
Jakeman and Green - Hair & Makeup Artist I started doing weddings when there was a demand for it from my regular client base. I found my love for hair ups, and training in makeup came alongside a little later on. A Hair & Makeup Artist does not simply do hair & makeup, we can be an integral part of the day, as you spend the best part of the morning with us. My ethos is to keep a calm and friendly atmosphere and to provide flawless services. Enhancing natural beauty is my main focus when creating a beautiful look, I take in to account many factors, including the Bride’s dress. I guess you could say, we are designers for you. Ordinarily, when I'm not doing weddings, I have a regular client base. This means I have built good relationships over a long period of time. However, with wedding services, you often find you have to speed up that process to earn trust, and really
Alice
get to know someone and their likes and dislikes, in a short period of time. This can be challenging, but I keep a relaxed approach so my Brides feel comfortable with me come the wedding day. Being in the wedding industry has enormous benefits, it's incredibly rewarding, but the misconception is that you only work Saturdays. Behind the scenes, there is a lot of work that goes into preparing for a wedding booking, such as invoicing, emailing, marketing, restocking, sanitising, and creating schedules and timelines. Many aspects of weddings in modern society remain traditional, but I do see more and more nonconformist elements. This is incredibly exciting as I feel couples now have the choice to express themselves freely and really make themselves happy when it comes to their big day.
@aliceclarkejewellery
Alice Clarke Jewellery - Jewellery Designer Nothing else compares to the feeling I get when I pass the ring box to a client. Seeing his face when he opens the box and gazes at the ring he will propose with is so precious. The Wedding Industry, well, it's something I didn't see myself going into at all when I graduated from the School of Jewellery in 2013. Wedding bells and diamonds is something I fell into a few years ago and I love it! An email came through from an old school friend who was recently engaged. She asked if I would make their wedding rings as they wanted something completely unique, handmade and that held a great sentimental value. After a cup of tea and a ring sizing, the order was in, and I had 6 weeks to produce the goods. No matter how much you pay for slick advertising, word of mouth is absolutely priceless. Since I made those rings, word spread, and I'm now taking orders for engagement and weddings rings more and more each month.
My process begins with a meeting at my studio where we discuss design ideas, then having sized fingers and decided upon metals/diamonds/design, the client leaves knowing that within 6 weeks, what was once an idea, becomes reality. I pride myself on making completely unique jewellery pieces with my organic and original aesthetic. I like to keep my making processes close to my chest, however I do send photo updates of the piece as it's being made over the 6 weeks. My jewellery collections have really taken shape these past two years with my style growing stronger. Whether it's the alternative engagement rings I make with salt and pepper diamonds or the crowns and tiaras inspired by the woodland around me; I will never stop creating, it's rooted deep within me and I'm always excited by what the future has in store for me and my tools.
TURNING EVENTS AND WEDDINGS INTO MEMORABLE EATING EXPERIENCES Interested in serving up something a little special at your event? Give us an idea of what type of catering you’re looking for and we’ll send the bear round with some suggestions. Contact us on either 07939 515009 or feedme@bearspantry.com
Let’s talk food.
GASTRONAUTS/OBSESSIVES BIG FLAVOURS/BIG SMILES YORKSHIRE www.bearspantry.com
Words: Florencia Clifford @lasfloresdelcampo
New York Art
York has transformed from quaint tourist town to a happening city in recent years. As a restaurateur who mentors, curates and sells art, I sense that the vibrancy and rapid growth of the independent food scene is going hand in hand with the offerings in the arts and culture. It feels sudden and very young: believe me, it was not there even four years ago. Whatever it was that we have been waiting for, or complained about, for years that York didn’t have, is suddenly there. This is partly because some of us have gone and done it, at a time when the ground felt ready for it, and with the help of new waves of talent and enterprise, people who perhaps would have stayed in bigger cities but have been seduced by York as an excellent place to live. Migration tends to bring a more divergent thinking attitude and a desire to “do” and “make” and people are taking risks.
There are institutions and charities enabling and supporting this creative environment. York has two universities, and these are committed to actively play a part on this cultural boom, both as providers of the resources necessary and to interact and create, working directly in projects with creative companies and artists. A good example of this is York’s Festival of Ideas, where people hopped from Campus to Campus, and to venues across the city to hear talks, see exhibitions, watch documentaries and short films or hear writers and thinkers. It feels like a cultural plan is being made. I spoke to three women who are active key players in the art scene to help me get a clearer sense of what is happening and why we all feel that things are changing and shaping positively: Lotte Inch, a curator and gallery owner; artist and DJ extraordinaire Lu Mason; and designer Rebecca Carr, a major risk taker and shaper of the indie art scene. The conversations left me feeling hopeful. Art’s Council BEAM, led by York’s poet and urban planner Robert Powell, recently organised a Cultural Wellbeing & York Creative workshop, in collaboration with York@large and with funding from RIBA’s Local Initiative Fund, with the aim at helping “York Council, developers, communities and the city’s arts and heritage sectors to better understand how to
implement policy on culture as part of good-placemaking.” This is all good news, as we have known for quite a while that one of York’s biggest problems when it comes to the arts is venues, studio space, performance space. Can the city’s empty spaces become these venues? Do we want more culture and less shopping? A wonderful example of a city becoming a venue was this year’s wonderful BLOOM festival, led and organised by Lotte. Many of the city’s empty shops became art windows, installation spaces, and dozens of businesses participated. The city became Bloom, and the theme made it interdisciplinary, providing an ample scope and an open invitation for people to participate. It felt collective, the feedback was phenomenal and proved so successful it is to become a biennial festival now backed by the council. The city has become a cultural destination. Events like the Early Music Festival and the Literature Festival attract people from all over the country and overseas. I was lucky to host a private dinner for some illustrious literati who had come all the way from Delhi to York specially to attend a concert. The River Arts Market, the Arts & event at the racecourse, and the success of York Open Studios have placed York as a city full of artists, eager to show and able to sell, and people are coming from far and wide to see what is on offer.
independentlife.co.uk
29
Image: Gracefool Collective, This Is Not A Wedding © David Lindsay, Design by Split
York designers Rebecca Carr and John Hollington are again bringing Effects Design Market, a curated exhibition selling modern design, to St Mary’s Church. It will form part of a city-wide Ceramics + Design Now festival, in partnership with CoCA at York Art Gallery and the Craft Potters Association, with events, workshops, talks and two selling exhibitions. This will offer visitors the opportunity to meet designers and become part of a growing global movement which values sustainable, low impact, high quality craft and design. Lu Mason is painting the city bright with her wonderful mobiles. For Bloom she exhibited in three venues and recently she has created a wonderful circus themed paper mobile installation in the hospital corridor. She says, “Celebrating 70 years of being our safety net… it’s a juggling high-wire act that we would be lost without.” She has also been commissioned to create Perspex shoe brooches for York Castle Museum, depicting some of their own collection to coincide with Vivienne Westwood Shoe Collection exhibition. York is also the first and only UK Creative city of media arts. It was given this designation in 2014 as an acknowledgement for putting creativity at the heart of local development, for being forward thinking, for its innovative and collaborative interaction with other international cities in this field. Some things to watch are YORK MEDIALE, a new biennial international media art festival, and the BAFTA recognised Aesthetica Short Film Festival, an important showcase of new cinema and original filmmaking. Lotte Inch’s gallery is having a take-over in by emerging bespoke furniture maker Sam Parkin. Her following exhibitions are paintings by York artist Steve Williams and “A is for Alphabet” the Alphabet in pictures. Lotte said that the current York Art Map is ready for revising, she already envisages a massive change in the numbers of venues. All over the city artists and writers, poets and potters, musicians and thinkers are creating work, sparking off ideas, finding a receptive audience and proving that York has found a voice and is happy to speak out to the world.
In with the new. A new season of genre-defying live performances at Yorkshire’s largest dedicated dance house DANCE
|
THEATRE
|
LIVE ART
Northern School of Contemporary Dance 98 Chapeltown Road, Leeds, LS7 4BH
rileytheatre.com 0113 219 3018
Illustration: Victoria Gregory @victoriamarydesign
Taste Hunter BROWN’S GREENS
CIAO BELLA
In the village of Rawdon, this lovely café serves up a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, as diverse as avo-on-toast mornings or curry evenings, all in a welcoming setting that manages to be both laid back and vibrant. A couple of tables out front are an ideal stop-off for a spot of brunch, or a drop of wine.
Despite being on Dock Street since 2010 and attracting diners with lunchtime bargains and slick Italian grub to their expansive room, Ciao Bella somehow feels like it remains a badly hidden secret. For those in on it, tables are grabbed and al fresco hours are whiled away in the good sized sun drenched back yard.
PINTURA Nestled into the side of Trinity shopping centre, Pintura is a vibrant Basque bar that makes classy cocktails and top tapas. The elegant inside is offset by a few simple yet welcoming tables and chairs out the front, to leisurely consume these goodies at, whilst watching shoppers and workers rushing by. Lay back and think of Espana.
Whether it’s relaxing in the Mediterranean or shared tropical fun, your vision of al fresco is more likely to be in sunny foreign climes than in Northern British cities. But a glimpse of home sunshine sees us Yorkshire folk flocking to the county’s great outdoors, and there are now ample urban eateries offering spaces large and small to soak it all in. This year’s super summer made these settings more tempting than ever, and even into Autumn and beyond they provide a breath of fresh culinary air. Here, Taste Hunter takes an al fresco tour of Leeds and York and displays a dozen finds.
MUSTARD POT A huge beer garden awaits visitors to Chapel Allerton’s favourite friendly pub. Whilst the cosy interior makes for a cracking local, it’s the outside that fills with folk of all ages, eating, drinking and being merry; one for taking in the continental sun whilst experiencing a traditional English atmosphere of real ale and real food.
LEEDS WHITELOCK’S Leeds’ oldest and most iconic pub is situated down a narrow side street off main shopping strip Briggate. This makes for a characterful beer alley, with tables and benches creating a communal buzz. A fitting refurb a few years back brought out the pub’s traditional charm, whilst adding a quality and cool that extends to the food and drink offerings; al fresco Sunday lunch, anyone?
THE TETLEY The famous old brewery turned its large indoor space into an impressive art gallery, which houses a bar and kitchen on its ground floor. This sprawls out to the sizeable surroundings, which has also hosted food festivals, and makes for a uniquely historical spot to relax with fresh local produce, from North Star coffee to refined home cooking, or of course, a pint of what it formerly brewed.
independentlife.co.uk
33
YORK PARTISAN
TRINACRIA
In less than 2 years of life, Partisan has developed quite the personality. Bringing together their eclectic experiences, which includes an Argentinian upbringing and Zen kitchen training, Yorkshire farming and French antiques, the whole is a quirky and quality café restaurant, celebrating the natural outdoors, and adding an al fresco touch with their pretty bistro curbed exterior.
If you’re missing the Sicilian skies or dreaming of the Italian seas, then this piece of York is here to make you long no longer. Italian owner Beppe is determined to deliver the taste of traditional Sicily to Bishy Road, with a café bar, gelateria and pasticceria, not only showcasing the food and drink, but encouraging a leisurely stay. Sit outside, pretend you’re in Sicily, then notice you’re in York, which of course, is even better!
PIG & PASTRY
SHAMBLES MARKET
Based on the thriving Bishy Road, this café was at the spearhead of the area’s cultural transformation. In some ways, a straightforward caff, serving breakfast, brunch, coffee and lunch, in others a step above, with friendly service and fine produce confirming its popularity. Better still, a lovely little gated area out front makes for ideal al fresco people watching.
The Shambles is the most famous old street in York, attracting tourists throughout the year. Its market is similarly historic, and has recently been revived by a street food court. Surrounded by an array of excellent vendors selling authentic worldly delights, from Neapolitan pizza to North African wraps, is al fresco social seating, to eat, drink, chat and chill the afternoons away.
ROBINSON’S Another lovely café on Bishopthorpe Road with another small set of outside seating to watch the world go by is Robinson’s. Keeping up the relaxed ethos and focus on local ingredients in satisfying dishes, this is a welcome addition to the area 2 years ago, and whether floating in Summer or cosy in Winter, is inviting from breakfast till booze.
BISTRO GUY From the front, Bistro Guy is an attractive little eatery to step inside. But keep walking and the promise of a garden is beautifully true, as a grassy hideaway is a delightfully unexpected retreat to casually wine and dine in. And at weekends this daytime café makes even more of its setting by turning into a pizza and beer bar inside and out.
INDIAN STREET FOOD • CRAFT BEER
LEEDS - 6 MILL HILL • LS1 5DQ
BUNDOBUST.COM
@BUNDOBUST
With T hese Hands
ZOSIA BERKIETA-LEWIS THE PLANT ROOM Words: Zosia Berkieta-Lewis @theplantroom Photos: Helena Dolby
Originally an idea conceived in 2014, the Plant Room is the botanical project work of myself and Mike Lewis, at our busy design practice in Leeds. The inspiration for The Plant Room came from an article on boiphilic design, explaining the positive benefits of introducing more plants into our urban environments, and specifically looking at workspaces. This article sparked an idea for curating and creating an exhibition with plants at its heart. I have always been around plants and gardening. My mother was a grower, and from a very early age I was outside all day, either in the kitchen garden helping to pick fruit and veg or playing on the floor of the greenhouse catching worms. There was a point where I came to resent the garden and all the hard work and so I retreated indoors into the warmth. However, as I grew older I came to value the importance of my childhood experiences and the inherited plant knowledge I had gained. I relished the company of plants, and a love for gardening and growing was sparked.
EMMA GRUBB - BOTANIC
I came to houseplants and indoor gardening a lot later on in my life. Living in a city compacted by bricks and concrete, it became vital to understand and appreciate the need to break free into green, natural places. Mike and I filled our backyard with pots, and even found an allotment plot to work and tend. As the seasons changed and we overwintered indoors, I felt a longing for green.
Words: Emma Grubb @botanicyork Photos: Barry Martin
I opened Botanic, a house plant shop within the York city walls, in late January 2018 during the “quiet” season of my job as an ecologist, which I have been doing for the last ten years. We sell house plants, plant accessories, botanically themed books, gifts, homewares, run botanical workshops and have started undertaking plant styling for local businesses. I'm not a botanist or horticulturalist, however, ecology is the study of the relationships between species and their environment, and I find that my professional background is relevant every day in the shop when advising customers on appropriate plant selection and placement for their chosen indoor space. Plants have adapted over millions of years to the conditions they now thrive in, and for house plants to succeed, we need to replicate these as much as possible; cacti do not want the same conditions as rainforest understorey plants. I love the “eureka!” moment people have when I'm chatting to them about plant adaptations and they realise why their succulents keep turning to mush...
I’ve had house plants around me since I was a child. The first plant I remember is “Willy” the cactus - a large Mammilaria that eventually grew two balls! Air purifying qualities, our much needed and often lost connection with nature, the need to nurture, the joy of a new leaf unfurling, city living, an escape from digital life…. these are all reasons why house plants are popular again. Like most things, plant popularity has been cyclical over centuries but I believe house plants are now here to stay! Running both a small ecological consultancy and a house plant shop is a challenge but I have the most wonderful Alice (The Real Plant Lady of York ™) managing the shop when I am being largely nocturnal, and I am very excited for our future.
In the past we had overlooked our indoor plants, but I started to notice the plants that resided in the corners of our rooms, unloved. I saw each room in our house as a space that could be transformed, a space that could be designed with plants in mind, and I relished finding pockets of space where plants thrived.
Over time I realised I was gardening again. With indoor gardening there’s a satisfaction that comes from minute tasks. There’s no heavy digging and it’s a more thoughtful process. A rhythm emerges of tending, watering and propagating. Since the first Plant Room exhibition project, myself and Mike have gone on to designing and incorporating florals and plants into spaces, and creating installations and exhibitions that celebrate our urban green environments. As a purposefully small studio, we seek out and work with like-minded creatives on a project-by-project basis, expanding and contracting their team when needed. I love working in this way. A nugget or vision for an idea is infinitely made better with input from other folk. And, invariably it offers up other outcomes that potentially might not have been thought of or realised. Some examples of our work can been seen around the city, including the Northern Monk refectory garden that was designed and made back in Spring 2016. The Plant Room has over time forged some interesting local and national project collaborations with partners that include The British Library, Harvey Nichols, The Harewood Food and Drink Project and Leeds Drawing Club. Most recently we launched a collaboration project jointly with Leeds independent retailers Colours May Vary and Village bookshop. Our project aims to highlight the need for more intercity collaborations that encourage Indies to work with, rather than against, each other. .
37
SONIA POUNDER - THE PLANT POINT
SOPHIE LEE - GEO-FLEUR
Words & Photos: Sonia Pounder @theplantpoint
Words: Sophie Lee @geo_fleur Photos: Joanne Crawford
I’m Sonia, I run The Plant Point in Leeds Corn Exchange with my sister Ada. We specialise in awesome and unique potted indoor plants, succulents and cacti, to name a few!
I started geo-fleur back in October 2014, but I have always had an obsession with house plants; my mum is a florist (and a huge inspiration!) and from a young age I was always helping her out with making occasion buttonholes, big table decorations and bridal bouquets. I guess green fingers run in the family, as my uncle is the head gardener of a National Trust garden and goes seed collecting in Japan – he would always bring me back the most beautiful succulents to propagate, which then prompted me to start my own company. This is why succulents feature so much at geo-fleur!
When I was 10, my mum came to me and announced that it was my turn to tend to the family garden; believe me, I couldn't think of anything other than finding somebody else to do it for me. I hated it. Eventually, after a lot of hard work, I tricked my younger sister Ada into finishing the gardening chores. From a very early age, both my sister and I were exposed to nature, our parents had a fairly large collection of indoor plants and dad was very passionate about his garden; with his own pond, waterfalls and other unusual features. He would regularly take part in competitions to see who had the best garden in our town. It was our childhood, spending all of our time outdoors helping our parents, whether we liked it or not! What we loathed growing up had made such an impact on our lives, but definitely not in a bad way; Ada went on to study landscape design and was known in our circle of friends for having a miniature jungle in her rented apartment. I, on the other hand, never really appreciated plants until around four years ago, taking on the mammoth task of nurturing a rubber plant Ficus Elastica. From that moment, plants took over our lives... and houses.
The knowledge of how to care for our green families came mainly from our own experience, unfortunately killing a few cacti along the way. Along with Ada's knowledge gained at university, and of course, all the advice from our parents, we knew that this was the way we wanted to spend most of our time. I have read that millennials are obsessed with plants because they cant afford to have children, who knows, maybe this is true. We're of the belief that it is simply because it is good for your soul, the plants help purify the air in your apartment, they add so much personality, colour and natural beauty to the dull concrete buildings we call home. But most of all, it's because it’s fun! I can easily say now, that I love caring for my jungle, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
My business partner, Sally, prefers plants without flowers, so when she got married I suggested that I plant her up a terrarium to carry down the aisle. It all kind of took off from there; I made a few more and then got addicted, and now run my own terrarium workshop so people can learn how to make their own miniature landscapes.For me, terrariums are the perfect example of indoor gardening, and how you can bring the beauty of nature into your home. Knowing what plants are best for what room is crucial when it comes to plant styling: the bathroom is perfect for air plants and kokedama, as the excess moisture from your daily shower helps those particular plants flourish. If you're lucky enough to have a conservatory or a super hot room, then fill it with ferns, palms, succulents and cacti as they will love the heat. Most plants don't like direct midday sun, so please be wary of this when placing your plants in your home. The biggest killer for house plants is overwatering and accidentally drowning them!
Indoor plants can be just as good as an outdoor garden – plus, they are versatile, personal and can move house when you do! Plants can add subtle pops of green to a room, or serve as a dramatic focal point. Whether your style is modern and minimal or vintage and whimsical, you can find the plant to suit you. Once you start a plant collection, you won't be able to stop – you'll soon be giving them names and treating them to fancy, decorative pots. Not just for show, plants are hugely beneficial to your health. Studies have proved that house plants release oxygen into your home, control humidity, purify the air, improve concentration and productivity, lower blood pressure and boost your mood. They serve a practical and aesthetic purpose, and will enhance your life. An indoor garden can be your sanctuary from the outside world, and for many people it is a source of great joy. Whether you live in a small apartment, or a large country house, by introducing certain plants into your home, you will start to notice improvements to your overall happiness. geo-fleur’s flagship store is inside the Hepworth Cafe at Hepworth Gallery, Wakefield. geo-fleur.com 39
Worda: Mark Hill ď… @street_cleaver
YOR K UNCH A INE D *
There is, and always has been, an abundance of tourists to the city, so chains are needed, but the mass chain scene in York can be way too overpowering; that seems to be slowly decreasing as many are now closing down.
The city of York is where I’ve chosen to spend my time for the last 4 years, and open up a business of my own. York is a city that is packed full of chain restaurants and bars, but as Bob Dylan said, the times are a changing.
Fossgate is an amazing indie street that is full of little hidden gems, like Kiosk and Fossgate Social. This street is slowly working its way up, towards Walmgate, which is also starting to show some talent, old and new; here lies Brew York, a unique and brilliant brewery & tap room, who I'm joining forces with as we launch the new Brew York Beer Hall, which is where I'll be opening Born To Lose Burger Kitchen.
This opens up great opportunities to young professionals and risk takers, but there's still one big challenge to overcome: high rents and rates! This isn't stopping some, and people are starting to make a move, which is great to see; there's a real buzz around, with new restaurants opening up and challenging the food scene with creativity and balls, 'cause it takes a lot of balls to take these huge risks and to stick by them. I myself have been running Street Cleaver for the last two years, and it has taken some big, big risks, some good, some not so good, but this will only make you stronger in the end!
Across the road is the Le Cochon Aveugle, another great add to the city. Down the road, a stones throw away, is the new Spark York, a container village based on Pop Brixton and others just like it popping up all over the country. Another front runner is the fantastic Skosh, based down Micklegate, these guys are taking York by storm with some truly amazing food, offering something really special. Which takes us on to the newest addition to York, as Tommy Banks has just opened up Roots, his new restaurant based on Marygate.
Along with this comes other issues, as the main central shopping street is full of empty shops, and it will take something very special to change this for the better, as these are very big units, and take a lot to fill. The rents are always pushed up by the big player landlords, and this is now showing that having a city aimed mainly at tourists will only go so far... but fear not, as with every closure, an opportunity arises for something amazing and unique to pop up.
There is a great vibe at the moment among the indie people of York, they are getting out there and taking some risks and having a good go. Starting up Street Cleaver has been a huge learning curve, but the one thing that has been our main ethos throughout, in the food and also the general running of the business: No rules. Give everything your all. Passion, hard work, and punk rock approach of doing exactly what you want and what feels right for you. Challenge the norm, with excellence and passion. Be different. independentlife.co.uk
York Unchained, something new.
41
For more than 100 years, Leeds Corn Exchange has been a home for countless beginnings, fresh styles and the making of all things new. It is a place where businesses are born, dreams are designed and food is enjoyed. Experience Leeds’ original shopping destination, today.
Leeds Corn Exchange — eat, shop and experience. leedscornexchange.co.uk
ry br it e v i
sh
A
Photos: Jeremy Kelly ď… @jeremykelly_
SUMmEr
independentlife.co.uk
45
L E E D S
YO R K
CALENDAR GIRLS: THE MUSICAL
TASTE OF MEXICO
Calendar Girls The Musical, by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth, is the award-winning production based on the true story of our own calendar girls – a group of ordinary ladies who achieved something extraordinary.
Join us for a Mexican food and drink tasting event with our neighbours Lupe’s Mexican Cantina and a drinks technician from Loves Cocktails. Get into the spirit of the occasion and learn how to make various tequila based cocktails as you sample authentic Mexican food which has been perfectly paired.
15 Aug - 1 Sep / 14.30 | 19.30 / Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House
13 Sept / 19.00 / Left Bank Leeds HIDDEN INDUSTRIES: LEEDS 1914 18 25 Aug - Sun 9 Sept / All day / Thwaite Mills Watermill
Explore the industry history of Leeds during the First World War. With the chance to hear personal stories curated by volunteers about trades now lost from view, it’s going to be a uniquely fascinating display. From aircraft paint, to welders’ goggles, to social reform, explore the trades that fuelled the WW1 effort in the city, and the people who worked in them.
SHAPING THE BODY EXHIBITION
R ACHEL NEW TON ‘WEST’ ALBUM L AUNCH TOUR
Every day until early 2019 / All day / York Castle Museum
This major new exhibition looks at how body shape has changed over the past 500 years through culture, diet, fashion and lifestyle.
11 Oct / 19.45 / Black Swan Folk Club MASTERCHEF RETURNS 5 Oct / 19.00 / Dean Court, Duncombe Place
Chris Hale will return with a fantastic four-course dinner on Friday 5th October. Chris was a finalist on the 2016 edition of Masterchef and his previous appearance at the hotel was an amazing success. We had some great feedback from guests and, as a consequence, they've asked us to do more events like this, so here it is. The price is just £45 per person including canapes and Prosecco on arrival.
Singer, Harpist and BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Musician of the Year 2017 Rachel Newton's fourth solo album 'West' was recorded in her late grandparents' old croft house in Achnahaird, Wester Ross. The album simply features her voice and acoustic and electro harps with no guest musicians.
AESTHETICA ART PRIZE EXHIBITION Until 30 Sept / All day / York Art Gallery
LINDY FRIDAYS
QUANTUM PHYSICS FOR BEGINNERS
Every Fri until 7 Dec / 19.00 / Carriageworks Theatre
18 Sept / 19.00 / The Hifi Club
Learn swing dancing in a fun and friendly atmosphere! Weekly drop-in class and social dance. Make new friends, get some exercise and have a giggle. LEEDS INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION
After capturing the imagination of audiences in London, Manchester & Bristol, our fascinating talks series is here to re-invent your evenings with an array of unique subjects, from inspiring individuals & speakers.
14 - 15 Sept / 19.00 / Leeds Town Hall
Hosted by Aesthetica Magazine, the Aesthetica Art Prize is a celebration of excellence in art from across the world. It offers both emerging and established artists the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience, and further their engagement with the international art world. From personal to universal ideas, the selections hold a mirror to society, exploring wider themes prevalent in today’s globalised, digitalised world.
One of the world’s foremost music competitions returns for its 55th annual piano competition. Leeds Piano aim to be the global leader in giving opportunities to the world’s most gifted pianists. HIDDEN TEMPLE NEWSAM TOUR
This tour does involve some steep steps and uneven surfaces, and is suitable for ages 7+.
Words: Ellie Palmer
14 Oct / Heslington
LENDAL’S LOUNGE
The Yorkshire Marathon is one of the UK's most popular marathons, with places selling out in five consecutive years. Demand in 2018 is set to be equally high, so move fast or you may be disappointed.
29 Aug & 26 Sept/ 20.30 / Lendal Evenings of original acoustic/ electroacoustic music performed by the original writers/singers form York and the across the region in the convivial atmosphere of the top bar at Lendal cellars. The event is also usually live broadcast on local community 'pop up' radio station Two Rivers radio. YORK BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL
25 Aug - 27 Oct / 11.00 / Temple Newsam Take a journey under the House and learn how the servants got around the House unseen. Who is the Blue Lady and what happened to poor Phoebe Gray?
YORKSHIRE MAR ATHON
40 FACES OF ST. GEMMA’S HOSPICE Daily until Sun 23 Sept / 10.00 / Leeds City Museum
PROSECCO TASTING DINNER
The unique stories of 40 patients, families, staff, volunteers and fundraisers have been captured to tell the story of St Gemma's Hospice in its 40th Anniversary Year. Each portrait has been photographed by the fantastic Olivia Hemingway, who specialises in portraits of people with a natural, relaxed style.
Amanda from Prosecco ecco will present five excellent examples of Proseccomatched wines accompanied by a delicious four course dinner from 7pm at The Grange Hotel, York. A journey through the delights of this highly fashionable and irresistible sparkling wine is just £59 per person.
31 Aug / The Grange Hotel
19 - 22 Sept / 17.00 | 12.00 / Clocktower Enclosure
Yorkshire's largest beer festival and one of the highlights of the UK beer festival calendar, with over 500 beers and 100 ciders including foreign beers and wines. It takes place every September on York Knavesmire – 150 acres of gorgeous parkland that has hosted events since Roman times. Last year it was named by TripAdvisor as one of the best things to do in the UK. 47
ILY A D M N P E OP M – 5 RY 10A E ENTant .’ c FREthe most swigonrkifiing today nesassen ed
Daz
s f ivia her eo rg/v ‘On tograp o . ld pho efie wak h t r wo hep
N E S S A S E N A I V I V E 18 N U 0 J 2 22 OCT –7 ne
nd
ed
d Fun
by ne
ia Viv
I-Leeds THW Sassen Full Page ad.indd 1
en,
s Sas
ud a sM
017
s, 2
Lotu
ivia ©V
en.
s Sas
on
ens
tev
yS rtes
ape ry, C
uth
, So
n Tow
a.
ic Afr
e Gall
Cou
erie
,s RA
23/05/2018 12:08