Note from the Editor

“Hero”

It’s a term that has become more common in recent times, especially with the advent of Marvel and its ever-growing universe of heroes. Growing up, I idolised my parents and, in particular, my Granddad — as most children do at a young age. They were heroes in my mind; my role models, the people I looked up to most. As I grew, so too did my expectations of my heroes — they needed super powers, a cape, and probably a trusty side-kick.

As an adult my heroes now take many forms; The Womble of Ventor (those who know will know) is a pillar of our community tirelessly giving up their own time for the benefit of others, never seeking accolades or recognition.

Food also plays a huge part in my life and so it’s fitting that one of my food heroes is a chef. There are plenty to choose from among those that grace our screens and book shelves, but for me Michel Roux Jr. is perhaps my ultimate food hero. He carries an air of nostalgia, yet has the most modern touch. He is inspiring, without ever being self-important. He’s generous on screen and even more so off screen… how do I know this? I had the sincere pleasure of enjoying his company on his recent visit to the Isle of Wight, where, together with Chef Alex Kimber of The Heron restaurant in Ryde, he curated a unique and very special menu that celebrated some of our own home-grown Isle of Wight produce.

The characteristics that make up your hero will, I’m sure, be different to mine, but what makes them heroic applies to all. Whether they’re fighting evil throughout the universe, defending humanity here on Earth by collecting litter from our beaches, or offering inspiration on how to make delicate traditional French cakes such as a Madeleine — these heroes have their own approaches to those rare qualities of strength, goodness, and heroism.

“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” Joseph Campbell, Professor of Literature

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” Christopher Reeve, Actor “I think of a hero as someone who understands the degree of responsibility that comes with his freedom.” Bob Dylan, Musician

Christian Warren

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Winners at the IW Chamber Awards 2016

8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1EJ 01983 861007 www.styleofwight.co.uk

Issue 81: March and April 2023

Regulars

16 Style Picks: A fresh, joyful and pastel-themed selection of springtime goods from some of our favourite local retailers and designers

18 The Style Scoop: Put a spring in your step and head out and about to some of the exciting, immersive events in the calendar

20 Lead interview: Wioletta Grzegorzewska – The literary life of Polish-born Isle of Wight writer

110 Style speaks: To local Punk Rock band Grade 2

Art

24 Cowes Gallery: Contemporary British & Aboriginal Art

26 Meet the Maker: Yana Barabash – Talented Ukrainian artist

30 Bubble Bouquet: with Lauren Fry – Blowing bubbles, celebrating spring, and gifting goodness

33 Style Spectrum: Timi Eross – Bamboo Shoots Photography

Features

64 Wedding Show Review: Take a closer look at the 2023 Wedding & Events Show

37 Mountbatten:

“We can all make a difference when we walk the Wight together!”

75 Experience the Royal Solent Yacht Club: Open Day – A chance to visit their stunning Clubhouse

94 From Cover to Cover with Babushka Books:

Dust off that bookmark and find your comfiest chair

96 Mottistone Gardens: An Easter Adventure

97 Shanklin Chine: Childhood Holiday Memories

99 Children’s Writing Competition: An opportunity to see your stories in print

Food

38 Michel Roux Jr: Isle of Wight Food Adventure

44 Meet the Chef: Mike Gane from Gastronomy

46 Gourmet Dinner Boxes: From Yarmouth Deli

48 Seasons of Change: The latest in Island food this Spring

56 From Warsaw to Wight: The Eastern European Islanders Taking Local Food in New Directions

61 Purple Sprouting Broccoli: With Will Steward, Living Larder

62 Style Kitchen Masterclass: Tarte au Citron – Tom Axford at Salty’s

Health And Beauty

67 Get the Natural Glow: Dr Hayley Elsmore – The Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic

69 Getting Ski Fit: Dr Luther Moss – Osborne Chiropractic

73 New Season New Skin: Dr Hayley Elsmore – The Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic

Home And Garden

77 Flowers by Ellie: Spring Delights for Mothering Sunday

78 Tips for Starting your Project: With Studio Jute

81 Spring Re-Fresh Your Interiors Toolkit Holly Jolliffe Photography and Studio Jute Interior

89 Property Profiles: Find your Perfect Island Property this Spring

Business

101 Hitting the Seas: With IDML Limited

106 A Change is as good as a Rest: By Hannah Lisseter, Churchers Solicitors

107 Gaining Your Unfair Share: By Dale Howarth, Business Mentor and Consultant

108 Albertolli’s: A Swiss Café in Edwardian Ryde

69 It’s springtime again; let’s get moving: Dr Margarita Kitova-John – The Lantern Clinic 59

Known as the “Outout Handbag”, this vibrant design feels like a breath of fresh air, with its simple design and vibrant colours. Made from 100% organic printed cotton, it’s stitched together with love by MollyAlice - a slow fashion maker from Weymouth. But, best of all, the design was created right here on the Island by Ventnor-based Saskia Norris (who you can find over on Instagram here: @saskiakarintextiles)

Available from mollyaliceuk.com for £38