The List Frome - April 2022

ISSUE 132

Greg Barden - The man behind Pixie

MARCH 2022

The Return Of The Frome Independent Market

Artists & Makers Of Frome With Nicky Knowles

Champion High Street Of The

YO U R G U I D E TO E VE RY TH I N G FR O M E

FREE LANDLORD INFORMATION EVENING (KEEPING YOU AND YOUR TENANTS SAFE AND COMPLIANT) Industry leading speakers explaining important changes to keep you on the right side of the law TOPICS INCLUDE

PRESENTATIONS

New rules for smoke alarms

KeyRing Lettings

Right to rent checks

What we do and how it helps you?

New proposal just released in the white paper for landlord registration and the abolition of the assured shorthold tenancy

Accountants - Tax update QUESTIONS & ANSWERS SESSION AVAILABLE

Thursday 17th March . 7pm to 9pm . Cheese & Grain, BA11 1BE

Contact manager@keyringlettings.co.uk to book your place

ISSUE 132 MARCH

Rose Langley

I

’m sitting at my desk and looking out over the rooftops to the swaying trees in

Egford Park. It is Friday February the 18th, and today we are meant to be hit with Storm Eunice – the biggest storm since the great storm of 1987. Unlike today, our primary school remained open back then. Maybe this was due in part to the immortal words of Michael Fish on the previous night’s weather report, that “a woman rang the BBC and said she heard there was a hurricane on the way... well, if you’re watching, don’t worry, there isn’t!” But there was. It was just a bit windy as I walked to my primary school with my dad. Our village was on top of a hill and always got the worst of the wind, so it didn’t seem like much to worry about. My mum had driven to work in Bath and we were all pottering about in our usual manner. But by lunchtime Mum had returned, we’d been collected from school and the walk home was a little hairy. We all know what happened next. 100mph winds battered the UK in what was described as the worst storm in two hundred years. Our little village was completely cut off as trees lay strewn across the country lanes (fifteen million trees were blown down in total), and we had no power. We often had power cuts back then, so an evening

» The List Recommends

4-9

» Cover Story

12-13

» Frome Independent Returns

14-15

» Mothers Day Gift Guide

20-23

» Artists & Makers

22-23

» Home & Garden

26-29

» The Fossil

30

by candlelight was nothing unusual, and in fact I remember enjoying those cosy nights by the fire as the wind blew outside.

Thus far, Storm Eunice hasn’t made full impact yet, though with schools closed and my husband’s drive to work tree-lined and illadvised, we are all at home, braced for whatever is to come. Candles at the ready, torches in useful places, films downloaded for inevitable WiFi outages, board games for inevitable power cuts, and lots of food that doesn’t require cooking. It’s a bit like readying ourselves to camp indoors. I’d almost be looking forward to being in the eye of the storm if it weren’t for the associated dangers.

Ever the (incredibly) amateur ornithologist, I keep thinking about the birds – where do they go in a storm? I hope their nests don’t get blown away, though judging by the three metre plastic banner I can see high in the air, flying to faroff fields, that seems unrealistic. Then, from my spot at the top of the house, as the wind starts to rattle the tiles just above my head, and the feelings of anticipation are too much, my shuffled playlist reaches The Doors’, Riders of the Storm, and out pops a huge rainbow. A sign, maybe, that, as we have done over the last two years, we’ll once again weather the storm.

Design: blackinkstudio.co.uk Front cover: Pixie Copy deadline for the April issue: March 7th

Published by Rose Langley, trading as Make a List Publishing, Sole Proprietor Editor Rose Langley 07957878717 rose@thelistfrome.co.uk . thelistfrome.co.uk *The publishers shall not be liable for any loss occasioned by the failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions or misprints.

» the list recommends «

Magpie Market

Sunday Morning Concert: Passacaglia

Cheese & Grain, Sunday March 6th, 9am – 2pm The Cheese & Grain’s popular Magpie market is back from March to December. This market runs alongside the Independent market on the first Sunday of the month, and is full of vintage and contemporary gifts, crafts, jewellery, produce and much more. To book a stall, contact olivia.dimery@cheeseandgrain.com

Passacaglia Trio’s new programme features music for flute, viola da gamba and harpsichord composed for Frederick the Great. ‘To Touch the Heart’ includes CPE Bach’s music and works by three talented women composers of the court. Passacaglia is a UK-based professional ensemble specialising in music from the Baroque era, played on recorders, flutes, violin, viola da gamba and harpsichord. Tickets available from www.fromeconcertsgroup.org

The Cuban Brothers

Frome Comedy Club

Cheese & Grain, March 5th, 8pm, £20

Merlin Theatre, March 19th, 7.30pm

The Cuban Brothers have played sold-out tours,

When it comes to stand-up comedy, Chuckl. is synonymous with great nights out up and down the U.K. Their Frome Comedy Club promises to bring you some of the biggest names in comedy, hand-picked artists you’ll love and stars of tomorrow you’re yet to discover. The March line-up includes Laura Lexx, Tony Law, Don Biswas and Adam Beardsmore, who have appeared on well-known comedy shows such as Mock the Week, 8 Out Of 10 Cats and Live at the Apollo.

festival spots and support slots for rock royalty, and their high octane and hilarious act is now ingrained in pop culture. Two decades since their inception, Miguel and his suspect sidekicks are renowned the world over for their party-starting skills, risqué sketches, B-boy moves and funk-fuelled music. The Cuban Brothers may be a comedy act, but they’re also serious musicians who have played with Prince, been on the road with James Brown and supported Fatboy Slim, Chuck Berry and De La Soul. In 2018 they celebrated their 20th Anniversary with a special tour of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

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Rook Lane, March 13th, Doors 11am Concert 11.30am

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19th March 2022 Cheese & Grain Frome More details at www.witchfest.net

Free Entry

Open between 9am and 3pm Lots of Witchy Stalls to Discover THE FILLERS FRI 4 MAR | 8PM DOORS £ 16 . 5 0 A DV (+ S E R V I C E C H A R G E )

C H E E S E A N D G R A I N .C O M M A R K E T YA R D . J U S T I C E L A N E F R O M E . B A11 1B E

BOX OFFICE 01373 455420

THE CUBAN BROTHERS S AT 5 M A R | 8 P M D O O R S £ 2 0 A DV (+ S .C )

M AG P I E M A R K E T S U N 6 M A R | 9A M - 2 P M FREE ENTRY

LIMEHOUSE LIZZY F R I 11 M A R | 8 P M D O O R S £ 18 . 5 0 A DV (+S .C )

TR ANSGLOBAL UNDERGROUND S AT 12 M A R | 8 P M D O O R S £ 19 A DV (+ S .C )

GAZ BROOKFIELD & THE C O M PA N Y O F T H I E V E S S AT 15 M A R C H | 8 P M D O O R S £ 15 A DV (+ S .C )

NEW MODEL ARMY T H U R 24 M A R C H | 8 P M D O O R S £ 2 8 A DV (+ S .C )

L I V E / W I R E - T H E AC /D C SHOW S AT 2 6 M A R | 7 P M D O O R S £ 16 . 5 0 A DV (+ S .C )

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» the list recommends « Hunting Raven Books Presents... We Are Family!

March 5th, Hunting Raven Books, 10:30am There are billions of creatures on this earth, but there is only one YOU! Join author Lucy Reynolds and local illustrator Jenna Herman as they introduce their new children’s book, We Are Family! There are myriad ways in which the young grow up on our wild, wonderful planet - this book celebrates the journey we all take to find our true place in the world. Jenna and Lucy will explore the diversity and ingenuity of different families in the animal kingdom while sharing lots of fun animal facts. The reading will be accompanied by a fun quiz and colouring activity. And the wonderful Willow Harwood (Singaling) will be sharing a beautiful new

song, composed especially for the occasion! Perfect for age 4+, but children and grown ups of all ages are welcome. Bring a cushion to make yourselves extra comfy! (This is a free event.)

A Duet of Lines, an exhibition by Guy Watts and Dan McGirr Black Swan Arts, March 5th – April 3rd A new exhibition of pen and ink drawings at Black Swan Arts explores nature and the universe.

Guy Watts and Daniel McGirr both specialise in producing meticulous drawings. However, there is a huge difference in the scale of their mark-making.

Frome artist Guy Watts works at a tiny scale. Each drawing is composed of hundreds of fine pen marks, which build up to create detailed images that are both dreamy and complex. His desire to draw was triggered at the age of 27, with the sudden clarity of vision that came when he acquired his first pair of glasses!

Guy’s precise drawings can take two or three months to complete.

Bristol-based Daniel McGirr works at a much larger scale, although he makes marks of corresponding subtlety and accuracy. His abstract drawings are inspired by the natural and manmade world, although he focusses on the process of creation as opposed to overall subject matter and theme. The end

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result is organic forms and patterns, using a form of mark-making that utilises precise edges and angles.

Daniel endeavours to challenge people’s perceptions of art and what can be achieved through painstaking detail.

Both artists bring a degree of obsession to their practice – for example, not allowing certain lines to touch one another, or simply being willing to reproduce repeating lines hundreds of times in one drawing. This helps to give their artwork a threedimensional quality.

The preview evening is on March 4th, 6 – 8pm. The whole building is open, with the River House open late and fully licensed.

» the list recommends « Retrospective The Whittox Gallery - Celebrating Five Years February 19th – April 24th The Whittox Gallery at RISE celebrates five years with its very own Retrospective show. The gallery welcomes back the wonderful artists that have exhibited their work since opening in 2017. Each of the artists will be showcasing new work, specially curated to create a joyous and unique show to mark the gallery’s journey so far.

The gallery is delighted to welcome returning artists Nicky Knowles RWA, Leslie Glenn Damhus RWA, Jamie Gallagher, Mark Jessett, Susanna Lisle, Jenny Morse, Georgina Towler and Andrew Roberts, who have all had solo shows over the past five years. There will also be the addition of a large photograph from the ‘We Feed the World’ show that was in collaboration with the Gaia Foundation last summer, and a selection of large prints by the unique collaborative Pine Feroda, who were the gallery’s first ever show in 2017.

Sarah Robson has been the gallery curator since it opened, and has helped owners Ed and Io Roberts fulfil a dream of having an independent contemporary art gallery in their unique building at the heart of Frome.

“Five years have flown by, and we are so excited to celebrate these wonderful artists who have supported us throughout our first years and who we now call the Gallery’s artist family. This is going to be a very eclectic and exciting group show!” says Sarah.

Sam Amidon The Silk Mill, March 13th, 7.30pm, £15 Sam Amidon is a singer-fiddler-banjoist-guitarist originally hailing from Vermont. He is known for his eccentric musical style, which often consists of adventurous interpretations of traditional American ballads, hymns and work songs, with the New York Times writing that Amidon “transforms all of the songs, changing their colours and loading them with trapdoors.” Catch him at The Silk Mill for a truly spectacular performance. Tickets available from wildtune.org 8

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RISE was built in the early 1800s as a beautiful church and has now been lovingly transformed into a cultural, lifestyle and community venue in the centre of Frome. Within the beautifully restored building, upstairs in the mezzanine, you will find the Whittox Gallery overlooking the Rye Bakery Café and the new gallery shop.

The shop will be selling artist-made greeting cards and a curated selection of small framed and unframed artworks during the exhibition.

Private view on Friday, February 18th from 6.30pm until 9pm. All Welcome.

For any further queries please contact Sarah Robson (Gallery Curator) on 07712523734.

Whittox Gallery, Rise, Whittox Lane, Frome, BA11 3BY www.thewhittoxgallery.com

Sam Amidon SILK MILL SUN 13 MAR

tickets: www.wildtune.org

Bath Returns to its traditional Spring Date!

1-3 April 2022

Trade Preview Thursday 31 March

24-25 Catherine Hill Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BY www.milliemoonshop.co.uk

Figure 1 Kore Purchase – Swedish Trestle Table

2022

FROME COMEDY CLUB SATURDAY 19 MARCH – 7.30PM JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT THURSDAY 24 MARCH, FRIDAY 25 MARCH, SATURDAY 26 MARCH – 7PM

Friday 4th TO

Monday 7th March

EVERY FAMILY HAS A STORY WITH JULIA SAMUEL FRIDAY 08 APRIL – 7.30PM

5.30 - 9.00pm 01373 465949 merlintheatre.co.uk Bath Rd . Frome . BA11 2HG

To sign up to take part go to: www.windowwanderland.com/event/frome-2022

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Les Liaisons DangereuseS

BY FROME DRAMA

L

10

es Liaisons Dangereuses first burst onto the scene as an RSC stage play in 1985. It is a brilliantly theatrical play packed with wonderfully layered characters, and sparkles with wit.

To be directed for FromeDrama by John Palmer (Potter Plays and Terminus) this production will have a contemporary set, lavish 18th Century costumes and, at its core, the driving power of sexual and romantic love.

Famous as the Oscar-winning film, Dangerous Liaisons, it examines the corruption and cruelty at the top of a louche society about to vaporise in the cauldron of the French Revolution, a society of sexual politics, power games and revenge. The play, written by Christopher Hampton adapting a book

by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, is based on a series of romantic, and sometimes explicit, letters. It explores the boredom of the wealthy, and the vulnerability of women in a patriarchal world.

Merlin Theatre, March 31st, April 1st & 2nd, £12/£10

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AUSTRALIAN INFLUENCED EATERY private catering available 14 king st frome ba11 1bh seating inside and out superfood smoothies, cold press juices, specialty coffee, poke bowls, buddha bowls, acai smoothie bowls, sweet treats. nooktheshop.co.uk

01373 471368

@nooktheshop

TUE-sat 9-4

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PIXIE POWER big love for small businesses

F

rome has always championed independent business – it is something we are renowned for. And if you frequent these businesses, you may well have noticed signs for Pixie when you are paying. But do you know what Pixie is?

Put simply, it is a reward system that benefits you and the businesses you shop in. You put funds into your Pixie account and get a percentage of your purchase back in cashback on every purchase you make with your Pixie Card. It’s real cash, so, unlike points or other rewards, it never expires or loses its value. Every independent business on Pixie sets their own cashback percentage.

Once you download the Pixie app you’ll be able to explore a large number of local, independent businesses who are signed up in your area. And you are away, shopping locally, supporting people who help make your local area vibrant and independent, and earning cashback each time you do! But Pixie is much more than a rewards card. From the very beginning, the ethos behind the business has been its driving force. We met up with Pixie founder, Greg Barden, to find out more. Here is his story:

“More often than not, in my case, that common ground was the need or desire to trade. The simple act of wanting to buy something from someone who wants to sell what they have made is the foundation of our communities. But what we see, with the digital revolution, is the dehumanising of trade, where we no longer connect through what we buy; this tradition has been replaced with mass-produced, impersonal experiences. And in doing so, we are losing the common ground that brings us together.

“That’s why Pixie is creating a local world where we can come together and trade on common ground with people who, like you, yearn for human connection, where quality and passion are as important as making a profit. And through them we get to experience different cultures and opinions, which as Mark Twain stated ‘is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness’. So as I look back to my days abroad, from buying bread from a baker in LashkaGah in Afghanistan to coffee beans from the bazaar in Baghdad, I had no idea how those experiences, that connected me with different people and their stories, would come to be the core idea behind Pixie. That idea being: humanity.

“In my early, to mid-twenties, I served in the UK Special Forces across many different countries. During this time I learned first hand how, with the right common ground, it doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from - the barriers that we put up out of fear can be quickly dismantled, and meaningful connections made even in the most unlikely situations.

“The simple act of wanting to buy something from someone who wants to sell what they have made is the foundation of our communities.”

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Cover Stor y

Frome Hardware, a Pixie registered Frome business

“it’s in our communities where humanity thrives.”

“We all come from vastly different backgrounds, cultures and places. And yet, no matter how much seems to separate us, when we are given the opportunity to meet and trade on common ground, our desire to experience, connect and understand one another as human beings is too strong for us to ignore.

ONE APP TO LIVE AND SUPPORT LOCAL Explore, pay and get instant cashback in independents across Bristol, Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Frome and Sherborne

So with Pixie I wanted to create a local world, one where our communities and local businesses play a significant part in our lives, where we can connect on common ground, and no matter where technology takes us, it’s in our communities where humanity thrives.”

To find out more go to www.pixieapp.co, or download the app

Download Pixie and get £5.00 Use the gift card code: P-List22

@explorepixie

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pixieapp.co

Cover Story

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©Lee Elkins

THE FROME INDEPENDENT RETURNS Reclaim The High Street on Sunday, March 6th

O

n the first Sunday in March, Frome town centre will come alive with artists, designers, craftspeople, vintage traders and food producers for the first edition of the Frome Independent in 2022. Head into town between 10am and 3pm, where you can stock up on incredible local produce and sample mouthwatering street food.

While away the hours browsing gifts, homewares, original art and design - all available to buy directly from makers and small independent businesses.

FOOD and DRINK The Frome Independent’s award-winning food sections are well worth ditching the supermarket for. You’ll find local producers offering cakes, pastries, charcuterie, local cheeses, pickles and more.

Somerset Farmers’ Market will be back at the Boyle Cross, bringing the finest selection of local produce to help you to keep your food carbon footprint as low as possible. For those going in search of lunch, head for the Street Food in Scott Road where you’ll find cuisines from near and far: New York to Tibet, Sicily to Somerset – everything from delectable Dim Sum, to handmade sausage rolls. Feeling thirsty?

Dotted throughout the market you’ll be sure to find something to wet your whistle from cocktails made from foraged fruit and botanicals, award-winning Somerset cider, hand-pressed lemonade or a delicious cup of coffee or tea. Don’t forget your reusable cup!

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MAKERS All along Market Place to the Bridge you’ll discover a vast array of hand-picked designer makers. TFI doesn’t believe in throwaway fashion and passing trends, instead selecting designers and makers who create high quality, unique products that are made to last. Ditch the mass-produced and discover makers who are all about materials and process. Catherine Hill, home of the bustling Suitcase Sale is a feast for the eyes in the form of fledgling and established artists, designers, craftspeople and more, nestled amongst the vibrant independent shops and cafés.

HOME, GARDEN and FLEA The small but perfectly formed Home and Garden section on the riverside is a diverse mix of flower growers, plants people, furniture makers and metal workers. You can source everything you might want or need to kit out your home and garden, including restored furniture and sustainable homewares.

If you like to while away the hours rummaging for vintage treasures, or embrace slow fashion with preloved clothing, look no further than the colourful Flea section, with more than forty stalls of goodies: antique furniture, mid-century homewares, vintage clothing and accessories, taxidermy, industrial lighting, textiles and more.

A © lice Whitby

MUSIC and MORE Live music from the Market Place Stage will bring a festival atmosphere to your Sunday - a space to relax and watch the world go by - it’s the beating heart of the market! Down at the Village Green (next to the Library) you’ll find the mighty Vintage Mobile Disco, with a stellar line-up of local DJs playing vintage vinyl. All sorts of different community events happen here: in March, the Frome Independent is working with Frome Kindness Festival, celebrating the festival finale with lots of opportunities to join in. There’ll be a craft area where visitors of all ages can make kindness-themed gifts and badges, or join in with Cheryl Sprinkler of Mojo Moves in a kindness-themed workout on the Village Green!

CHARITY PARTNERS At each market, the Frome Independent works with local charities like Fair Frome, Dorothy House, WHY and Frome’s Big Christmas Get Together to raise awareness and money for local causes. The organisation is run by a small team of three local residents who are supported by a dedicated team of local event staff on market days. It is a not-forprofit social enterprise that doesn’t receive ongoing subsidies from local councils or outside corporate sponsorship, but it helps generate an estimated £2.5 million in revenue for its traders and Frome’s independent retailers and hospitality businesses.

GETTING THERE If you’re visiting from out of town, check out the VISIT page on thefromeindependent.org.uk which contains all the information that you’ll need for getting to the market. The convenient Park & Ride service will be back, so if you’re bringing your car, please use the Park & Ride rather than parking in residential streets, as this causes obstructions for residents.

A © lice Whitby

A © lice Whitby

MORE INFO For more information about upcoming events, or to join the mailing list, check out: thefromeindependent.org.uk @thefromeindependent The Frome Independent @morethanamarket

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MARCH TO THE BEAT WITH MOJO MOVES

As part of their ‘Make March Memorable’ campaign Mojo Moves are encouraging people to dance for improved memory. In a 21- year study by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, regular dancing was shown to reduce the risk of dementia by 76%, twice as much as reading. Doing crossword puzzles at least four days a week reduced the risk by 47%, while cycling and swimming offered no benefit at all. (Source: New England Journal of Medicine, 2003) Mojo Moves classes, although easy to follow, require split-second, rapid fire decision-making, which aids the creation of new neural pathways and increased mental acuity. In other words, regular Mojo Moves sessions can help improve memory and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

This March 20th, join Mojo Moves for their special Spring Awakening morning rave. This silent disco version of your favourite dance workout is held at Rodden Meadow on the first official day of Spring, and is the perfect way to shrug off those winter blues.

To book your space go to: www.mojomoves.co.uk

regular dancing was shown to reduce the risk of dementia by 76%, twice as much as reading.

SPRING AWAKENING SUNDAY 20 MARCH 10AM - 12PM RODDEN MEADOW, FROME TICKETS £10

AMBIENT REGGAE HIP-HOP DRUM & BASS JUNGLE + MORE

BOOKING ESSENTIAL - MOJOMOVES.CO.UK 16

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frome

PILATES studio

BESPOKE 1:2:1 PILATES EQUIPMENT SESSIONS

Improve your strength, balance, flexibility & control.

Classical reformer Pilates studio offering small group classes and one-to-ones.

The Old Tannery, Frome BA11 4AR focuspilates.studio | 07778 843631

PRIVATE SPECIALIST STUDIO STUDIO OPEN ALL YEAR - FLEXIBLE BOOKING

hello@fromepilatesstudio.co.uk

Emotional Freedom Technique A short term, solution focused therapy for personal or professional change & growth

Gentle, effective, non-invasive, therapy for aches, pains, restricted movement, injuries, stress & many other problems.

Janie Godfrey - Frome Bowen Clinic 01373 452 422 www.bowenclinicfrome.com

Anxiety • Phobias • Procrastination Trauma • Limiting Beliefs • Weight Loss Addiction Discounted Block Therapy Sessions Frome • Bruton • Online Free Consultation Accredited EFT Practitioner www.eftcoach.co.uk

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Sewing Kits. Other options include Quilt in Box, Skirt, Apron, and Bunting Millie Moon - From £18

Secret Garden Tiny Orchid pendant Christina Oswin Jewellery from £35

I

MY MUM

SHOP LO C AL THIS

October Earrings by Scatter Jewellery The Frome Independent Market - £32

MOTHER’S DAY

Hoooked DIY Craft Kit Pouffe (Knit or Crochet) Frome Yarn Collective - £29

Botanical glassware by Paly Glass The WHY Gallery £12- £28 Hand made moleskine, cord and hickory stripe smocks

by Smock Project The Frome Independent Market - £54 - £62

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Mo t h e r ’ s D a y G i f t G u i d e

6 Cheap Street, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1BN 01373 455332

For all your jewellery commissions, repairs, remodelling and valuations We stock a selection of beautiful hand-made jewellery, watches and cufflinks.

We also offer hand-engraving, Antique Silver restoration and repair.

Registered Fair Trade Goldsmith Member of National Association of Jewellers

AnnieChalk Sloan Chalk Paint Stockist and homehome accessories Annie Sloan Paint Stockist andbeautiful beautiful accessories

www.allabouttheyarn.co.uk E: info@allabouttheyarn.co.uk T: 01373 473 557 11, Catherine Hill Click and Collect and Free Delivery within a mile.

Annie Sloan Stocklist Chalk | Wall Paint | Fabrics

1 Bath Street, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1DG Annie Sloan Stockist 01373 764 472 | hello@matthewpaulinteriors.co.uk Chalk Paint | Wall Paint | Fabrics Matthew Paul Interiors fi 1 Bath Street, Frome, Somerset, BA11 1DG 01373 764 472 | hello@matthewpaulinteriors.co.uk fi Matthew Paul Interiors

CER AMICS . JE WELLERY . PRINTS . TE X TILES 3 S T O N Y S T, F R O M E 0 1 3 7 3 47 2 4 0 4

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Soundings - Just Juniper.

A stripped back gin, distilled in Frome Retribution Distilling £38

More Than A Woman, Caitlin Moran Hunting Raven Books £20

Low Waste Botanical Skin & Haircare Hibi Botanics from £10

Richard Winfield Vase Black Swan Arts Shop - £45

‘Mr Fox’ by Polly Alizarin Harvey (A4 print) Whittox Gallery Shop £34

Edblad Statement Wave Earrings (also available in silver) Marchbank Jewellery £45

Millie Moon 24 - 25 Catherine Hill, Frome www.milliemoonshop.co.uk / Retribution Distilling www.retributiondistilling.co.uk Hunting Raven 10 Cheap Street, Frome. www.winstonebooks.co.uk Christina Oswin Jewellery 20A Cheap Street, Frome. www.christinaoswin.co.uk / Hibi Botanics Etsy or @hibibotanics / The Why Gallery 3 Stony Street, Frome. www.thewhygallery.co.uk Black Swan Shop 2 Bridge Street, Frome / The Whittox Gallery Shop RISE, Whittox Lane, Frome www.risefrome.com Frome Yarn Collective 11 Catherine Hill, Frome www.fromeyarncollective.co.uk / Marchbank Jewellery 6 Cheap Street, Frome www.marchbankjewellery.com / The Frome Independent Market Town Centre, 1st Sunday of each month, www.thefromeindependent.org.uk

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Mo t h e r ’ s D a y G i f t G ui d e

We’ve made the shortlist for the fourth time in five years.

Thank you to all our wonderful customers for your loyal support. www.winstonebooks.co.uk/frome

www.retributiondistilling.co.uk Distilled and bottled in Frome, Somerset

COMMISSIONS WEDDING RINGS REPAIRS REMODELLING 20A Cheap Street . Frome . BA11 1BN . 01373 472505 Christina Oswin Jewellery @christinaoswin

christinaoswin.co.uk

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ARTISTS & MAKERS OF FROME WITH NICKY KNOWLES

W

e talk to collage artists and illustrator Nicky Knowles about her creative early years, branching out in lockdown, and her magical garden studio.

Jim Ede. I would visit the gallery on a weekly basis, looking, sketching and listening to recitals, and I would say that this collection of work, more than any other, has had a lasting effect on my own work. In 1991 I moved west to complete a Fine Art Degree at Bower Ashton in Bristol. During my second year I was lucky enough to spend a term on an Erasmus exchange to the Academia of Art in Bologna, Italy. At a time when British art schools were pushing conceptual art over painting and drawing, it was refreshing to start every morning with a drawing class. I have maintained a studio practice since leaving university despite working for 14 years in conservation, running studios, street fairs and an art centre.

What is your artistic background?

I have been creative for as long as I can remember.

My mother was a single parent until I was five and, although she wasn’t an artist, she made things from scratch, from food and clothes to handmade Christmas presents including a much loved puppet show for my fifth birthday. By the time I was nine I could sew, crochet, knit and bake, and I filled sketchbooks with drawings of our animals.

In 1988 I studied for my A-levels and completed my Art Foundation in Cambridge. It was here that I became acquainted with Kettles Yard and the wonderful collection of mid-century British art collected by 22

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A r tists and Makers of Frome

What made you follow this path?

It was the only path ever to take.

What is your physical creative process? What materials and techniques do you use?

I have two very different disciplines. I am both a large scale collage artist and an illustrator of nature.

When illustrating, I use fine pen and inks, and when collaging, I use a mix of mediums from paper, canvas, paints, wax and charcoal. I often spend weeks on canvases that I then cut up and collage on board. It’s an exciting medium with endless possibilities, and I love it.

What inspires your work?

Nature, families, nomads, circuses, my daily walks and the walled garden where I work.

How did lockdown affect the way you work and create?

In many ways I was lucky as I live and work at home and just set about making lots of new work, including my first sculptures and jewellery designs.

How do you find the Frome area, in terms of creativity and artistic community?

In 1995 I won the Black Swan Open and was offered my second solo exhibition on leaving art school, so I was always grateful to Frome for those early opportunities as a working artist. Much of the town was boarded up, and there certainly wasn’t a coffee shop on every corner, but it was a creative town, with its beautiful historic buildings, theatres and art centre. We moved from Bristol in 2008, and since then many new gallery spaces have opened up. We love the town.

Where do you work from? Tell us about your studio.

For years I rented city studios but, in 2014, we built a studio in our Frome

garden. The studio is basically a 4m by 8m shed. I have no heating or light, but I love it as it’s wrapped around by a beautiful edible garden, filled with trees and bees.

The perfect escape when waiting for works to dry.

What is your favourite place to be for artistic inspiration?

I get my inspiration from everywhere, but it is good to have time away from the studio, so I try to visit an exhibition at least once a fortnight, and when I really need to clear my head we pack the dogs into the car and head for the beach. We often spend the week of New Year in St Ives, Cornwall, but for closer jaunts we head to Porlock or Lyme Regis.

What artists inspire you, and why?

I am inspired by lots of art from early Renaissance to contemporary paintings, but I do have a particular love of mid-century art. Some of my favourites include Barbara Hepworth, Elizabeth Frink, Sandra Blow, Henry Moore, Keith Vaughan, Afro, William Congdon, Miró and so many others. I love drawings and prints too from Dürer and Rodin to Louse Bourgeois, Kathe Kollwitz, Japanese woodcuts and many many contemporary artists.

If you hadn’t become an artist, what would you have done?

I would probably have stayed in conservation and/or worked with food. Art, food and animals have always been my passions.

Are there any artistic processes/disciplines which you haven’t worked in/with, but would like to?

I mentioned earlier that I had started making sculptures in lockdown. Most of these were maquettes in card and wood, so I’m just starting to learn about steel fabrication and next will be bronze casting.

How can people see and buy your work? nickyknowlesillustrations (Illustrations) nickyknowlesart (collages) www.nickyknowlesart.com I have work on view in Eight Stony Street in Frome on a regular basis For the first time in 6 years, Nicky and her husband Eddie Martin will be opening their studios for the Frome Festival in July. They will be showing their paintings, drawings and sculptures from their secret garden alongside stalls of antiques, ceramics and refreshments. For more details and directions see the 2022 Art Trail guide.

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edible flowers

BY DAVE H A M I LTO N

T

he vivid colours of edible flowers can brighten up a salad or add a touch of class to cake decorations. So why not brighten up your vegetable plot, encourage some pollinators and have something a little more colourful to eat this year? To get you started, here are my top seven edible flowers. pop into some water in an ice-cube tray

Calendula/Marigold The flowers are said to be both antibacterial and anti-viral. Use the petals in salads or, for a bit of indulgence, mix them into melted chocolate.

Courgette flowers Stuffed with soft cheese and deep-fried or filled with leftover risotto, a sprinkling of raisins and ovenbaked courgette flowers can be even more delicious than the fruits.

and once frozen add

to a springtime glass of Pimms.

Borage For a real treat, pop the flowers into some water in an ice-cube tray and once frozen add to a springtime glass of Pimms.

Want to know more about edible plants? Visit davehamilton.co.uk to find courses on foraging and vegetable gardening right here in Frome.

Mallow The leaves and flowers of the tree mallow, hollyhocks and self-sown (or cultivated) wild mallows are edible.

Use in a mixed salad, adding stronger flavours such as rocket or mizuna.

Violets, violas and pansies Sweet violets, bedding violas and pansies are all edible. Their use as a food is centuries old, the Greeks and the Romans used them to sweeten dishes.

They work well as a garnish for cakes or desserts.

Alternatively, throw a few in a salad to give a subtle flora flavour and a bit of colour.

Nasturtiums Nasturtiums have an edible flower, flower bud (pickle in vinegar to make capers), and leaves. Like watercress and mustard, they can have a bit of a kick to them, so use sparingly.

Primroses Wild primroses should be well and truly up by the time you read this. They look great on the top of a chocolate cake, the yellow contrasting with the rich dark brown.

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Vegetable Gardening Masterclass 17th & 18th April Frome - Classroom based - Suitable for new growers and old hands alike - Learn the secrets of a productive plot - Taught by Dave Hamilton Trained Gardener and author and contributor to Grow your Own magazine For more info visit

davehamilton.co.uk

GET PICKLED FERMENTED, FORAGE, FROME

G

et Pickled Somerset is owned by fermentation fanatic Paula Neubauer, who makes tasty fermented food and condiments that are good for both you and the environment. Get Pickled was born from a passion for preserving food and looking after the planet, and a genuine need to create more out of fresh ingredients. Paula’s aim is to be completely zero-waste and to have a minimal carbon footprint by using seasonal produce and any surplus they can get their green fingers on.

Over the next few months Get Pickled will be running Forage and Ferment workshops along with their friends Bountiful Earth. “We will go for a foraging walk near my house near East Woodlands and then come back for foraged and fermented light refreshments.

We’ll make a kimchi/sauerkraut with the plants we foraged, including wild garlic!” Paula told us.

Workshop dates are March 12th & April 2nd For more information email info@getpickledsomerset.com www.getpickledsomerset.com

Alt Kimchi, Beet Kraut & Seasonal Ferments

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THE GARDEN PLANNER

HOUSE

MAKING YOUR GARDEN PART OF YOUR HOME

A

s we head towards Spring, it’s a great time to start thinking about your garden.

But if your outside space isn’t working for you, it might be time to call in the services of the Garden Planner. The Garden Planner creates beautifully designed gardens that are specifically tailored to your needs. From a visual guide that you can follow and install yourself in your own time, to more extensive work that requires the services of a professional gardener or landscaper, the Garden Planner can offer a tailored plan to suit your lifestyle and budget. We do the planning and, if required, can recommend our trusted local suppliers to carry out the work. You decide the level of assistance you would like based on your budget.

Elizabeth Evans is the woman behind the Garden Planner. She initially trained as a costume designer, and her designs were seen at the British Museum, the Portrait Gallery, Shakespeare’s Globe, Harrods and the Serpentine Gallery. She later retrained and pursued her passion for gardening and spatial design, and so The Garden Planner began.

With a sound understanding of period and style, an eye for colour, form and design and excellent organisational skills, Elizabeth is able to create outdoor areas that

suit families or individuals, keeping within budget and considering the surrounding environs. All garden designs are hand drawn to reflect the personal nature of each garden and its owners. A strong emphasis is placed on getting to know the clients, their individual needs, expectations and unique styles.

“Elizabeth is that rare balance of someone who is creatively gifted and yet is reassuringly thoughtful, methodical and organised. Not only that but she actively listens to her clients’ wants and needs. The result is a design that is yours, but that probably surpasses whatever dreams and ideas you had to begin with. Be prepared to be taken on a garden journey that is good for the soul!” client review For further information visit www.elizabeththegardenplanner.com You can contact the Garden Planner on 07814 959520

A Personal Garden Planning Service www.elizabeththegardenplanner.com Call or text on: 07814 959520

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TH ELIS TFR O ME

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www.garstonvets.co.uk THE LIST FROME

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SOWING THE SEEDS WITH TRU G & LET TU CE

Mix it all together, and you have your own seed compost in which to sow your seeds. Like so: Homemade seed compost

M

arch is the time of year when we start to think about sowing our seeds. And seeds need special seed compost, particularly if you want to give them the best possible chance of germination to send them on their way. One of the best ways we can get our seeds to germinate is by giving them a good start, and that means good seed compost. So, why not try making your own?

Rather than seeing moles as a pest, I try to use whatever they decide to leave behind – and now is the time they’re at their most active. The soil from molehills is free, and it’s nice and fine. This is great for those seeds as their roots start to develop.

The next thing to add is some coir. It’s the natural fibrous coat of the coconut. It can be bought loose, in blocks or in discs, and it’s a useful addition to any peat-free soil conditioner. I also add some leaf mould, as that also helps with drainage and improves the structure of our seed compost. Its main purpose in the mix is to add bulk to the compost and help with water retention for our seeds. If we don’t have enough leaf compost then we’d simply add some more coir - or vice versa.

The final thing we add is vermiculite. It’s a mineral that is mined and then undergoes a heat treatment process that means it expands into small pieces.

And then we: 1. sieve 2 pots of molehill soil, just to remove any stones or weeds that we might have scooped up 2. add 1/2 pot of sieved leaf compost 3. add 1 and 1/2 pots of coir 4. and finally 1 pot of vermiculite.

I also add some leaf mould, as that also helps with drainage and improves the structure of our seed compost.

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Home & G arden

1. Fill your seed tray or pots to the top with moist compost.

2. Gently firm the compost to give a flat surface to sow on. Leave a small gap from the top of the tray or pots.

3. Sow your seeds thinly, leaving space around each one. Use your finger and thumb to gently scatter the seeds from the packet.

4. Lightly cover the seeds by sieving seed compost over them.

5. Water them with a gentle spray.

6. Place the tray or pots in a warm spot to germinate, such as a windowsill.

7. Keep an eye on your seeds as will soon emerge.

At this stage they can be carefully pricked out, potted on and then gradually introduced to cooler temperatures.

If you want to know more then have a look at our website or Facebook, or listen to us on FromeFM. @the_trug_and_lettuce @thetrugandlettuce

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01373 301379 or 07974 075221 THE LIST FROME

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INTO THE LIGHT Th e Fr o m e Fo s s i l

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nother grim day on the road. I stood at the garbage-strewn verge in the middle of nowhere, thumb out, while herds of camions thundered by, followed by yet more vans made of corrugated iron. The odd tractor and motorbike. Then nothing for forty minutes.

The tarmac stretched desolately away in both directions. So did the heavy clouds. At last I saw a car approaching with a loud buzz and a slow drunken lurch. It was that Gallic icon of the 1960s, a Deux Chevaux. Out went the thumb again. The driver, wearing a beret and a supercilious smirk, swept past without looking at me.

This summed up my life at the time. My school career had nose-dived, with such dire A-level results that no university would look at me either. In desperation, I had set off to hitch hike – solo - across France and Italy with seventy pounds in my pocket.

You’ve probably spotted the two howling flaws in my scheme, contained in the words “solo” and “France”.

Solitude, I found, was much overrated, especially when you spend days by dual carriageways and nights in hedges or dreary hostels. And then there were the French – not exactly a warm and welcoming bunch, as far as I could see.

After a month I reached the Mediterranean. Yet even sunshine and azure seas couldn’t shake me out of my misery. Was it me, or France? The lifts dried up, and I took trains instead, using more of my fast-vanishing money. I moped through Marseilles and Nice and Frejus, wondering whether it was all a dreadful mistake. Should I just admit I was a complete idiot, and go home? But next day I shouldered my pack and boarded the 9.30 to Genoa anyway.

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The skies were as louring, the railway staff as surly, my prospects as bleak as ever. Gloomily, I watched the last of France slip away. Then we crossed the border and the train squealed to a halt. Immediately everything changed. The sun came out. The air lightened. Doors swung and banged as French officials got off and Italian ones got on. Now the train seethed with squat men in showy uniforms, shouting and gesticulating and rushing about. Joy seemed to flood out of them. I sat up. A policeman, armed like a brigand, examined my passport. An inspector flamboyantly checked my ticket. We were in Italy, and the world was vibrantly alive again.

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