ingenue_51_spring 2026

Art Trails & Open Studos discover treasures & meet artists

plus spring & summer festivals artists, galleries & exhibitions

live music & theatre interviews & reviews

flash fiction & poetry

south downs & high weald : issue 51: spring 2026

ingénu/e

creative talent revealed

Hello dear reader, and welcome to our Spring issue! While the world is apparently going bonkers around us, artists and creatives of all kinds are quietly (and sometimes loudly) getting on with the business of elevating the tone of society in the best way they can. However, added to the usual barriers they, and all artists before them, face (time, finance, everyday pressures of living, absent muse etc), is a new menace.

spotlight on: art trails/open studios visual arts & contemporary crafts performing arts spring & summer festivals poetry, prose & illustration creative courses & workshops coda

who’s who & what’s what

contents editor Gill Kaye editor.ingenue@gmail.com sales & marketing Roger Kaye roger.ingenue@gmail.com 07583 944546 subscriptions subscribe@ingenuemagazine.co.uk online www.ingenuemagazine.co.uk @ingenue.magazine @ingenuemag

Award winning American singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega brings her ‘Flying with Angels’ world tour to various locations in the UK this summer, including Folkestone Leas Cliff Hall and the Isle of Wight festival, both in June. Credit: MusicLive/Alamy

of the arts in education, and in this I include the English language. According to Cambridge University research reveals institutional bias against art, music and drama with pupils steered away from these due to perceptions they are 'risky' or 'low-status'. Such short-sighted ignorance, do they not realise that a culture depends, directly or indirectly, on its artists?

So there's never been a better time to read more, write more, draw/ sculpt/ stitch more, dust off the guitar/keyboards, and let's create the heck out of life!

–Gill Kaye, editor

"ingénu/e – not just a magazine, but a

lifestyle"

The danger of AI. Like Iago to Othello, like Wormtongue to Theoden, AI offers the hand of friendship while behind its back it holds the dagger to bring about our downfall. The other day I saw a reel by an artist, in tears, saying the hits on her website had suddenly and dramatically increased. Not being able to explain this to her satisfaction she looked into it and found that these were mostly coming from China. Her work was being 'scraped' (stolen) to teach AI, without her permission and against her will. Her response, though tearful, was defiant. Whatever 'art' these AIs produce will never embody that human spark, that essence of real visceral experience. Good for her.

The encroachment of AI into our daily lives is an insidious creep over our threshold – and we're offering it the front door key. Now that we are being gradually and inexorably coaxed into living life online almost every tool we use has its AI 'helper'. From being asked by a bot if I am human (the irony) and to please select all the boxes with bicycles, to its audacity in suggesting it could help me write something better, this would be amusing if it were not such an insult. I was given a manuscript to proofread and copy-edit last year. I couldn't figure out why I was finding it so much more difficult that usual to determine exactly what the writer was trying to convey – the incorrect use of a multidefinition word from our rich language; the literalness where nuance would have been more appropriate –until I realised that it had been 'written' by AI.

A while ago I was preparing for a fairly lucrative proofreading/ illustration project. I'd had in-depth talks with the enthusiastic writer, and I was excited about getting started. Then I got an email saying that priorities in his life had changed and the project was put on the back burner. I recently bumped into him and asked him about his book, was it looking like he'd be able to get back to it any time soon? With great delight he told me that he had actually gone ahead with it, using AI. He was very pleased with the result and was planning his next one. I had to use all my considerable powers of restraint to remain polite. Working on this project would have been an interesting experience and the money would have been handy. But what if it had been my main source of income...

And don't get me started on the environmental impact of the mega data centres powering AI, gallons of water siphoned off just so that someone can ask their AI helper to construct a better sentence (sorry, soapbox now stowed safely back under the stairs).

This seems to go hand in hand with the downgrading

spotlight on...

art trails & open studios

With the onset of spring and lengthening days comes the reawakening of all dormant slumbering things. Artists and makers, however, have been quietly beavering away, preparing for the season of art trails and open studios, when they open their doors to the art-loving public. These events are a unique way not only for people to view and buy art works and meet and talk to the artists, but they also give the artists themselve an opportunity to get out and see one another's work and exchange ideas. As artists of all kinds respond to the world around them with all its stimuli there will be a wealth of new work to enjoy.

Dianna Jazwinski

Photographic Botanical Artist taking part in Artists Open Houses

Dianna photographs locally grown flowers to explore how different floral textures meld to create their own kind of abstraction, further enhanced by low light to reflect the emotion of the creative arrangements.

As well as taking part in the inaugural ROSA Botanical Art Fair, at West Dean Gardens on the 1st to 4th May, Dianna will be exhibiting her smaller works on 16th and 17th May at another new independent Art Fair in Herne Hill, London, in association with the Dulwich Festival Artist Open House, (see page 30 for details).

In between, on all weekends in May (except Bank Holidays), Dianna will be back at the Sussex Nightstop House at 121 Freshfields Road, Venue #3 in the Hanover/ Queens Park Trail of Artists Open Houses, with a selection of open edition prints and cards. She has donated a print for the charity, available to view at the venue.

https://www.hernehillartfair.com www.diannajazwinski.com

Dianna Jazwinski, Ranunculus

Susie Olford, artist

taking part in Chichester Art Trail – atmospheric and joyful

This ingénu/e magazine comes with light evenings and happiness colours in spring and early summer flowers. My mind is on a warm studio and the incentive to pick up a palette knife and big tubes of oil paint.

Very soon the Open Studios Art Trail in Chichester and its surrounding villages will be drawing in art lovers from far and wide. Time to visit an amazing light barn within the charming hamlet of Flansham, PO22 8NJ. It’s a no-through road so many may never have heard of Flansham. But here’s your chance to discover and gaze at paintings of Land, Sea and Sky; paintings of moods but never sad moods. I paint soft, blended oils, and colourful contemporary

scenes, always cheerful to see.

As well as finished works, painting in progress will be on my easel so you can see my messy palette and fingers. Unique, humorous wine cards will be there for a chuckle – and might inspire you to think of a friend or family member who loves wine.

The barn is southwest of Arundel, and yards off the A259 west of Littlehampton. Road signs will be there to guide you, and courtyard parking is easy beside the venue.

Art Trail weekend dates: 16th & 17th May and 23rd, 24th & 25th May 2026. For full details visit chichesteropenstudios.org. Contact me via e-mail smoart@btinternet.com and Instagram @smoartuk

spotlight on... art trails & open studios

Jade Taylor

A gem worth travelling for June

is a peak time for artists to open their studio doors wide and welcome visitors into their world, and with so many studios it can be hard to choose.

The studio of professional artist Jade Taylor sits surrounded by the flora and fauna that inspires her and is most definitely an Open Studio worth visiting and here’s why.

The studio space itself is truly special, where nature whispers through every corner. The bespoke interior space was designed and created by the artist to be visually inspiring; it isn’t just a workspace – it is a living gallery of wild inspiration. She doesn’t just work with nature, she collaborates with it and will be demonstrating her process throughout. From

foraging wild plants, to printing with them, her process is slow, intentional. Every detail says something about her; quiet, careful and deeply connected to the rhythms of nature, Jade’s art doesn’t just depict the wild, it belongs to it.

A visit to Jade’s studio and garden will not only give you an insight into her process and inspiration, but a deeper understanding of the narratives and details that are woven carefully into her compositions. A studio visit gives you the whole story and a warm welcome awaits, if you needed any more convincing to add this studio to your list to visit, Jade has a reputation for baking great cakes too! 29th to 31st May and 6th & 7th June; 11am to 5pm. 1 Harlakenden Cottages, Woodchurch TN263PS www.jadetaylorstudio.com

from top: April's Pink Moon; The Gathering; Under the Buck Moon

spotlight on... art trails & open studios

Artists Open Houses Festival – May 2026

Weekends

2nd to 25th May 2026

Throughout May, Brighton and Hove will be alive with festivities, including nearly two hundred Open Houses spread across the city, along the coast and out to the village of Ditchling and beyond. Each weekend in May, artists will be opening their doors to welcome you inside, offering a unique opportunity to meet artists and makers in their homes, where you can hear about the making of the artwork, both the how and the why.

The beautiful 2026 AOH brochure cover illustration is by artist and printmaker Alej Ez (see advert on page 17); his artwork Modern Bathers weaves together personal ritual, local history, Modernist influence, and Brighton’s built and maritime landscape into one layered composition. Be sure to visit Alej Ez’s Open House on the Brunswick trail.

At other Open Houses why not enjoy a sundowner in a Secret Garden, or a locally made indie beer at the Garden House; meet Boogaloo Stu’s characterful chatting vases, experience a creative cacophony at the Little Picture Palace, or enter a hidden tunnel to the Dream Fishing House; plus meet TBOY and Fatboy Slim to get your Pepita coffee tin signed. Many Open Houses also offer workshops for both adults and children to get involved, learn new skills and explore their creativity.

Meeting the artists and makers and buying directly from them, means you are not only making unique purchases, but supporting both emerging and established creatives from throughout the city and region. Visiting the Artists Open Houses offers a great way to explore Brighton and Hove beyond the usual tourist routes, whilst being creatively inspired – and maybe even sampling homemade cake and tea in artists’ homes or gardens. A truly perfect day out! Take a look at our website and start planning your May weekend festival tours.

Visit: www.aoh.org.uk

Artists Open Houses are open weekends: May 2nd, 3rd & 4th (Bank Holiday), 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th and 23rd, 24th & 25th (Bank Holiday).

spotlight on... art trails & open studios

Kate Scott & Friends

Artist Open Houses, Hove Art Trail one long weekend only, 21st to 25th May

KateScott will open her home, garden and studio for one long weekend only with a small group of established artists she loves: Emma Stanton, jeweller; Davina Colmer, stone carver; and Ashdown Pottery, ceramics. All the artists and makers create work that is unique and seems to complement Kate's expressive, colour-flooded abstract paintings effortlessly. The curation aims to create a rich, but calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Emma Stanton creates feminine, tactile jewellery handmade from recycled silver and gold. Each piece is a talisman, shaped by the past and crafted to celebrate nature's resilience and beauty.

Davina Colmer works predominantly in stone, specifically alabaster and African serpentine soapstone. Each sculpture starts with an instinctive process into the form and nature of the stone, whilst taking inspiration from life drawing and the natural energy in the piece itself, a form takes shape, culminating in a fluid, tactile sculpture.

Ashdown Pottery, set in the heart of Ashdown Forest, Ashdown Pottery is the studio of ceramicists Anthea and Bill. Here in this beautiful setting, they make and sell colourful stoneware pottery, tableware and large sculptural outdoor ceramics inspired by classical forms, and also take commissions for home and garden.

Kate Scott works from her studio at home and has been exhibiting in Artists Open Houses for a few years. Kate makes highly personal work, which speaks of remembered places, longing and grief, and seems to connect to people's raw emotions bringing something powerful and sensitive into her collectors' homes, triggering their own memories in a way that resonates and is comforting. Kate loves collaborating with other artists and curating exhibitions both in her home and in galleries and other spaces. www.katescottpaintings.com

The house is easily accessible, a short walk from Hove Station and the Seven Dials. There is free parking on Rigden Road at weekends and most of the time on weekdays. Open 21st to 25th May, opening times 11am to 6pm.

Steyning Arts Art Trail

23rd to 25th May and 30th & 31st May

This year's 2026 Art Trail is shaping up to be a really great one. Taking place over two consecutive weekends in May with eighteen venues in and around Steyning, featuring many of our talented artists and makers. Why not come and have a day out exploring the streets of mediaeval Steyning, visiting venues which include some beautiful buildings and artists’ homes and studios. Many will be offering tea, coffee, cake and other refreshments.

Our artists this year include painters, printers, textile artists, ceramicists, jewellers, leather design, wood and resin turners, photographers, feltwork and the list goes on. We are proud to have the students at Steyning Grammar School exhibiting their work again and the makers and artists from Making It Out.

It really is a great day out for all the family, so why not come and see for yourselves, meet our artists and if you see something that grabs you it’s a great chance to buy a piece of bespoke art direct from the artist. Pick up a trail brochure from Steyning Museum, Church Street, Steyning BN44 3YB and you are set to go.

We look forward to welcoming you. 23rd to 25th May and 30th & 31st May, 11am to 4pm www.steyningarts.co.uk

from top: Andrew Milne, sketching with pastels in situ; Helen Hunt, Goldfinch; Linda Wells, Seed Head Butter Dish, ceramic; Fay Bishop, Iris

spotlight on... art trails & open studios

Art in June at Jessops Farm Studios

5th to 21st June

Whywould you drive out to visit Jessops Farm Studios during Art in June?

Because we are a working studio established over twenty years. Because we are in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Because we are nine artists – including three generations of Cathy Bird’s family. Because we are friendly and love to meet you. Because you just might find something you really love! Plus there will be free workshops and demonstrations every Art in June weekend. For dates and times and all information check us out on the new Art In June app on your phone, and click to download instantly. Alternatively, contact Cathy on 07951 726997.

or weekendarting@gmail.com and we will email you the full programme.

We look forward to meeting you – at Jessops Farm Studios, Tonbridge Road, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7AU. left: at Jessops Farm Studios – painting workshop en plein air; bottom left: visitors admire artwork

Adur Art Trail 2026

6th & 7th, 13th & 14th, 20th & 21st June

The Adur Art Trail returns in 2026, bigger than ever, with new artists, fresh venues and plenty of returning favourites. Four Artists’ Houseboats –Verda, Rebus Stone, Verity and Myrtle – open their doors this year, always a major highlight and full of surprises.

On Shoreham Beach, regular venues are joined by The Quay Hole Bar and Hidden Gems, both showcasing a wide range of work. Pollinator Café also returns with reclaim art and great coffee. In town, The Shoreham Gallery, Chapter 34 and Town Quay Studio are joined by new activities, including Palate Bottle Shop’s wine label design competition and Drink & Draw sessions with Adur Art Collective artists.

The Circular Space hosts The Museum of Lost & Found, Katie Gander’s ACE funded community project transforming discarded objects into emotional, imaginative artworks. At Brighton City Airport, the Whispering Gallery features paintings, mixed media and an inspiring collage workshop.

Further afield, Art at 2A reopens with painters, printmakers, textile artists and ceramicists. Craft lovers can visit Sue Penrose’s Mosaic Studio at Shoreham Port and the new RJ Leather Studio in Lancing, before exploring Artists at West Beach for exciting artworks –paintings, drawings, prints and 3D pieces galore.

spotlight on... art trails & open studios

above: Delia Lindon Spence, Figure against blue background; left: Gill Dixon, Abstract paper weave

Many venues offer free or affordable workshops. Check our trail brochure for event listings, booking details and fun competitions. The eye catching brochure is available across the area, including at the Trail Information Hub in Shoreham Art Gallery. It’s also online at adurartcollective.co.uk, along with artist profiles and an interactive trail map at https://tinyurl.com/Adur-Art

Follow @adurarts on Instagram for regular updates about the trail, artists and venues.

We look forward to welcoming you to the 2026 Adur Art Trail.

Gill Dixon, On behalf of Adur Art Collective

below: Scilla Allen, Blue bowl of oranges; right: Em Fry, Plant study, lilac flowers; opp page, right: Susanne Hopkinson, collage. Adur Arts

Horsham Artists Art Trail

6th & 7th and 13th & 14th June 2026

Thehighly popular Horsham Artists Art Trail is back for 2026, taking place in venues around Horsham District on the first two weekends of June. With eighteen venues – in artists’ homes, gardens, studios, retail locations – and fifty-two artists taking part, there’s plenty to satisfy art lovers of all kinds.

Trail maps, providing details of locations, artists and facilities, will be available at the Horsham Artists stand in Horsham Market on Saturday 30th May and at various other locations such as local libraries; Deborah Crago - Rose Scarborough Fair

spotlight on... art trails & open studios

an electronic version of the map will also be available on the website from early May. Some venues will have refreshments available and gardens to sit in – a winning combination of beautiful place, art to inspire and cake!

The Trail offers the chance to chat to artists in a relaxed environment with work on display ranging from watercolours, acrylics and oils, to ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles and sculpture. The group now has

over a hundred members, and the style of work on display at events shows a fascinating diversity, so there’s always something new to see.

Whether you’re looking for an original piece of art, a print, a gift for a friend, or simply a greeting card, there will be a wide choice of items for sale with prices to suit all budgets. And whether you’re looking to buy – or just looking – everyone is welcome.

For up-to-the-minute information, visit the website: horshamartists.org where you can sign-up for the Horsham Artists’ newsletter and follow Horsham Artists on Instagram and Facebook @horshamartists.

clockwise from opp top left: Horsham Artists – Angela Brittain, Me and My Bestie; Karin Pfannenschmidt, Boogie Street 1; Pat Wright, Iron Men; Jane Cole, Enamel glass pearl earrings; Pippa Honess, Vases; Steve Bicknell, The Silent Child; Ailsa Quinlan, Hope.

West End House Gallery taking part in South East Open Studios

Set in the heart of beautiful, historic Smarden, West End House is a contemporary gallery showing original artworks including paintings, prints, ceramics and sculpture. The space is warm and friendly with inspiring work to suit every budget.

Everyone

is welcome and the gallery is fully accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair users. It has been run since 2011 by two local artists, Karen Papworth and Patricia Hawkins. Fifteen years on they are still passionate about what they do and still share the delight of selling artworks on behalf of their wonderful artists to equally wonderful customers. Each year they are proud to exhibit at The Affordable Art Fair in London. The gallery holds two to three themed exhibitions a year and at all other

spotlight on... art trails & open studios

times has an eclectic mixed display showcasing work by gallery artists and makers.

2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the ever popular South East Open Studios. As part of the celebrations, West End House is delighted to be hosting a special preview show ahead of the main event in June. Following an open submission, the show will feature work from around forty artists who have signed up to open their studios this year.

The show dates are 1st to 25th May, with a private view on Saturday 2nd May, 2pm to 5pm. Please do pop in for a glass of something fizzy and enjoy the wide variety of work on display.

West End House Gallery, Water Lane, Smarden, Kent TN27 8QB. Tel: 01233 770261 or 07710 898843 Open Thursday to Sunday, 10am-4pm. email: girls@westendhousegallery.co.uk website: www.westendhousegallery.co.uk IG: @westendhousegallery FB: @2westendgirls

clockwise from top: Maria Russell, The Spaces We Fill; Lorraine Singer, Shades of Stone Drop Vessel; Scarlett Woodman, Copper Light; Jude Askey-Brown, French Geranium; Hildegard Pax, Teardrop Dazzle Necklace; Jane Richardson, Wren on gardener's fork

Gallery North:

Experience a Summer of Art in the Heart of Hailsham

Experience a refreshing summer of culture at Hailsham’s hidden gem, where a new programme of dynamic exhibitions aims to inspire and connect the Sussex arts community and beyond.

The season opens with VANISHING PLACE (28th March to 9th May), a beautiful and expressive collection of land, sea, and city-scapes. Featuring work from over forty artists, it offers a reflective and thought-provoking look at the vanishing world around us.

From 16th May to 4th June, we shift perspectives with BEYOND BORDERS. This exhibition looks at challenging traditional boundaries to explore how art lives outside the confines of a frame. Artists are invited to submit their work in this latest call for entries before the end of April.

In July (11th to 25th), the gallery welcomes the well-respected Blue Monkey Network for their annual show, HIVE. Spanning every room in the building, this exhibition promises a diverse and thought-provoking display of talent from one of the region's premier artist groups.

The Summer programme concludes with FLOCK (8th August to 20th September), a celebration of togetherness and collaboration. Featuring works by individuals and groups aged four years and up, the exhibition invites everyone to get involved. Visitors can contribute to several public artworks, making their own mark on this inclusive end-of-summer

event that coincides with the Hailsham Festival of Arts & Culture.

Whether you are a lifelong art lover or a curious newcomer, we invite you to step inside Gallery North and enjoy a summer of exceptional art.

For further information and all artist opportunities visit www.artgallerynorth.co.uk/artist-opportunities

pictured: work on display for 'Vanishing Place'

visual arts & contemporary crafts

Comrades in Art: Artists Against Fascism at TOWNER EASTBOURNE

This summer’s exhibition at Towner Eastbourne will focus on the Artists International Association (AIA), an anti-fascist group that came together, despite great variation in style and practice, to unify artists during the Spanish Civil War.

The exhibition is based on extensive new archival and collections-based research conducted by Andy Friend and published in his book, Comrades in Art: Artists against Fascism, 1933-1943 (Thames & Hudson).

Opening on 7th May, Comrades in Art: Artists Against Fascism is the most comprehensive exhibition on the AIA ever staged, and the first in over forty years with the AIA as a central theme. Founded in 1933, the group campaigned for peaceful and cultural development, hosting exhibitions while promoting wider access to art through affordable prints and mural commissions.

Featuring artworks and ephemera documenting the everyday lives of artists and their working-class comrades during international conflict, the exhibition highlights work by Peggy Angus, Pearl Binder, James Boswell, James Fitton, Margaret Fitton, James Holland, Percy Horton, Peter Laszlo Peri, Betty Rea, Cliff Rowe and Nan Youngman - each a member of the founding generation of the AIA. Their work will be shown alongside AIA exhibiting artists and supporters, including Ithell Colquhoun, Dame Laura Knight, Paul Nash and Lucien Pissarro.

Towner will run a series of public events during the exhibition, including day courses such as Political Printmaking with tutor Emily Johns and Book Binding & Zine Making with designer Soofiya.

To learn more and book now, visit towner.gallery/comrades.in.art

pictured from top: FHK Henrion, ‘For Liberty’ poster design, 1943. FHK Henrion Archive, University of Brighton Archives, courtesy of the Henrion Estate; Edward McKnight Kauffer, Design for Cambridge Exhibition Against War and Fascism, 1935; Cliff Rowe, The Fried Fish Shop, 1936. © Cliff Rowe Estate. Reproduced courtesy of Leicester Museums and Galleries;

visual arts & contemporary crafts

Nicola

Rose Paintings and Drawings

www.nicolaroseartist.com nicola.rose@zen.co.uk Commissions welcome

VANISHING PLACE

28.03 - 09.05

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Visit the website or email us at subscribe@ingenuemagazine.co.uk www.ingenuemagazine.co.uk

EXHIBITIONS & ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES

EXHIBITIONS 2026 COMING SOON...

28.03 - 09.05 VANISHING PLACE.

ALTERITY : 02.08 - 30.08

A reflective exhibition that celebrates the beauty of our disappearing lands & seas, both urban & wild.

A contemporary exhibition of painting, poetry and installation by The Material Collective.

16.05 - 04.07 BEYOND BORDERS. SUBMISSIONS OPEN UNTIL: 24.04.26

OF SUBSTANCE : 06.09 - 01.11

A dynamic exhibition of installation & sculptural work that explores the concept of art outside of the frame, focusing on process, exploration and play.

A wide-ranging, exploratory exhibition of contemporary sculpture and installation. **SUBMISSIONS OPEN UNTIL 11th AUGUST ** visit www.artgallerynorth.co.uk for info

08.08 - 20.09 FLOCK. SUBMISSIONS OPEN UNTIL: 18.07.26

CONGREGATION: 08.11 - 17.12

An exhibition of figurative and still life work that explores people, place and the connection between the two.

Exploring the spirit of togetherness, community and collaboration. Work in any medium that responds to: “The sense of community is the most essential element in building a better world.” Also open to young artists from 4 years and up.

12.09 - 17.10 PAPERING THE CRACKS. SUBMISSIONS OPEN UNTIL: 25.08.26

An expressive exhibition of drawing & paper-based art.

For all enquiries & artist submissions please contact Emma at artgallerynorth@gmail.com www.artgallerynorth.co.uk 70 High Street Hailsham, BN27 1AX

Expressions of interest: artgallerynorth@gmail.com www.artgallerynorth.co.uk

visual arts & contemporary crafts

Nicola Rose artist

In my quest for wild open spaces I have recently moved to Shetland. I now have direct access to a sea of inspiration and as a result my work is evolving and changing fast.

My studio faces the sea and, as summer faded into autumn and winter I observed the sun skim low across the horizon casting intense colour and contrast onto sea, clouds and land.

Whenever the winds allowed I worked out on the cliffs with pochade and sketchbook then developed my ideas as large oil paintings in the studio. At times the light displays are overwhelming and ever changing so I work on many canvases simultaneously to capture such fleeting moments. The volcanic cliffs are a constant inspiration, pounded as they are by Atlantic waves and wind.

I have recently exhibited this new body of work at the Oxmarket Contemporary Gallery in Chichester and will be exhibiting a painting in their 2026 anniversary summer show. I continue to show at McAllister Thomas Fine Art, Godalming and The

Little Art Gallery in West Wittering.

I am also exhibiting on Shetland at the Shetland Gallery on Yell, and this summer I will be featured at The Weaving Shed Gallery in Hillswick on Shetland Mainland.

www.nicolaroseartist.com instagram: @nicolarose8624

top: Sol Over Volcanic Rocks; below: Radiance

Untold Stories

Francesca Duffield & Tezel Bahcheli

Lewes artists Francesca Duffield and Tezel Bahcheli are opening their new exhibition ‘Untold Stories’ at the Star Brewery Gallery, Lewes, on Saturday 13th to Sunday 21st June; Tues to Sat 11.00 to 4.00, Sun 11.00 to 3.00.

‘Untold Stories’ brings together two artists who arrive at a similar artistic vision from very different starting points. They share a deep interest in hidden narratives within their work.

Francesca is an artist and poet. Her oil paintings, hand made prints and drawings are inspired by imagination, dreams, fairytale, and literature.

Francesca’s work is a series of tableaux from a dream world, using the circus as a vehicle for symbols and reflections, which become enriched by the viewer’s interpretation.

Tezel is a sculptor working in fired clay creating work that interprets the stories behind the face and the body, in expression and gesture, acknowledging the narrative in mood and myth.

Tezel works from her garden studio, inspired by people and animals. She works with a variety of clay bodies and glaze techniques to reflect dreams, emotion and spirit.

Both artists’ work reflect a subtle interpretation of inner and outer worlds, and complement each other in a meditative way.

Visit www.starbrewerygallery.com for more details

visual arts & contemporary crafts

The Lighthouse Gallery Eastbourne 19 Cornfield Terrace, BN21 4NS 07748354879. Open Tues-Sat 10.30-4.00 Find us on Facebook and Instagram original work by 25 local artists and makers fabulous coffee, cake and snacks friendly welcoming atmosphere a wealth of cards and gift ideas

visual arts & contemporary crafts

Perfection vs Originality

musings from artist Gill Bustamante

Have you ever noticed how the most popular paintings, music, books, theatre performances etc are often quite odd? (not sticking to a formula).

Art programmes such as Sky TV’s Artist of the Year tend to favour the quirky artists more than the ‘traditional’ ones. In the theatre, when someone improvises, the audience finds it more memorable and interesting. In music, the most popular

artists will break rules and make odd noises despite being superlative musicians (Radiohead are such a band – their music is startling and strange and beautiful and sometimes ugly all at once and their success is enormous).

So, whilst technical perfection, in any form of art, is definitely something to strive for, what balances perfection is being brave enough to experiment. Technical perfection means adherence to agreed upon rules as to what perfection is, whilst originality means diverging from adherence to agreed upon rules to discover new ways to communicate your message.

For many of us, the artists we love the best balance these two things and the genius artists do it unashamedly and with no apology.

Why am I saying this? It’s because as an artist and art tutor I want to see more people finding themselves an art form and striving towards technical perfection but also celebrating their own impulses to diverge from it in weird and wonderful ways! I promise you – your mental health will love you for it.

Gill.

www.gillbustamante.com

top: A Portal Opens; left: Act of Creation (made by combining some technical skill with some weirdness)

visual arts & contemporary crafts

Artspring Gallery

exhibiting through spring & summer

Our artist collective sprang to life over ten years ago with the opening of a much-loved gallery in Tonbridge High Street, Artspring Gallery. Since March 2025 we have embraced the digital age and moved online, continuing to exhibit independently and as a group, showcasing paintings, printmaking, ceramics, glass, textile mixed media, enamel art and jewellery.

Exhibiting as a collective, we pride ourselves in offering a diverse collection of high quality, hand made work made by local Kent artists. We appreciate the continued support of our local community and the support we are able to offer each other as creatives.

We will be exhibiting at the Riverhill Himalayan Gardens Bluebell Festival Art Fair from 22nd April to 4th May; The Spa Gallery, 24 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells TN2 5TNT from 30th July to 6th August; and at St Mary’s Centre, Lion St, Rye TN31 7LB on 5th and 6th September.

from top: Hilary Shields, pressed glass drape vases; Anne McArdle, enamel bee trinket dish; Jayne Coulson, hand forged silver bluebell necklace; Antonia Enthoven, Time Out, etching with aquatint; Marie Pearson, ceramic Odin bottle

We invite you to visit our website to see our work for purchase, commission or simply to enjoy! Further information at www.artspringgallery.co.uk

visual arts & contemporary crafts

A Warm Welcome From The Attic

The Attic Art Club was founded just before the Second World War. Currently we have thirty-five members, talented local and professional artists creating fabulous work in a wide variety of disciplines, both 2D and 3D.

We have a group exhibition twice each year in Ditchling Village Hall. Our membership is ever evolving, so there will always be something new to discover.

Our May 2026 exhibition will run from 12 noon on Friday 1st May and then from 10am to 5pm on the Saturday 2nd, Sunday 3rd and Bank Holiday Monday 4th. Visitors are warmly welcomed to come and browse or buy our work which is all for sale. There will be framed paintings, unframed browser pieces, ceramics, glass and greetings cards by our members. We also encourage you to vote for your favourite artist’s work.

There is also a continuous programme of demonstrating artists throughout the exhibition, so you can come and chat to them about their methods and materials.

We will be supporting Age Concern Hassocks throughout the weekend.

If you would like to see who our members are, see

examples of their work, or find out more about the club, do visit our website www.atticartclub.co.uk, find us on Facebook facebook.com/atticartclub and Instagram. instagram.com/atticartclub/

Carlina Oliver will be demonstrating on the Saturday morning. There will also be demonstrations by Wendy Wren, Joanne Goddard, John Perry, Alan Spencer Brooks and Lyndsey Smith over the weekend.

left:

Carlina Oliver demonstration at Ditchling; above:

The ever popular Hagop Kasparian wins the visitors' favourite artist prize in 2025

visual arts & contemporary crafts

All Things Bright and Beautiful at

THE LIGHTHOUSE GALLERY, Eastbourne

Since retiring from her teaching post, printmaker Heather Penny has thrown herself into full-time printmaking with a passion!

Heather works from her garden studio and enjoys getting messy as she experiments with all kinds of printmaking, including linoprints, woodcuts, cyanotype and screen printing. Her latest bold series of screen prints is based on iconic Sussex buildings such as the Devonshire Park Theatre, the De La Warr and the Brighton Pavilion, as well as landmarks like our fabulous Beachy Head Lighthouse. A vibrant palette of hues forms the backdrop for striking graphic images, creating artworks guaranteed to bring a beautiful, bright burst of colour to any interior.

Heather has been part of The Lighthouse Gallery since it opened almost five years ago, and the gallery is proud to have supported her creative journey.

Ruth Backshall has also recently turned her very creative hands to printmaking, experimenting with gelli prints based on natural forms but taking a bold approach to colour. She uses these prints to make lampshades which pair naturally with Heather Penny's prints when displayed together.

Brighton based artist Cath Laffan is the latest addition to the gallery, bringing her delicate knitted

copper wire necklaces and bangles in a stunning range of colours to join the party. If you are looking for something bright and beautiful, make The Lighthouse Gallery your first port of call.

Heather and Ruth are planning printmaking workshops at the gallery, follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more information, coming soon.

The Lighthouse Gallery, 19 Cornfield Terrace, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 4NS 07748 354879 @lighthousegalleryeastbourne Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.30am to 4pm; Sunday, 1pm to 4pm.

visual arts & contemporary crafts

Dianna Jazwinski

Photographic

Botanical Artist

Inspired by vintage botanical charts and the work of Pierre-Joseph Redouté, Dianna uses dark backgrounds to illuminate the colour, detail and texture of plants.

Dianna photographs locally grown flowers to explore how different floral textures meld to create their own kind of abstraction, further enhanced by low light to reflect the emotion of the creative arrangements. She searches out the intricate details to fascinate the viewer and endeavours to find the gestures of the plant, revealing our human connection.

Dianna has a busy month in May, starting with the inaugural ROSA Botanical Art Fair, taking place at West Dean Gardens on the 1st to 4th May, alongside

artists contributing to a vast selection of botanical art in all its forms. She will be taking her large works and introducing two new prints – Blue Mood and Hydrangeas And Foxgloves

Next, she is at another new independent Art Fair in Herne Hill, London, at the Station Hall, Railton Rd, on the weekend of the 16th and 17th May, in association with the Dulwich Festival Artist Open House, taking place over two weekends. There, she will be exhibiting her smaller works.

In between, on all weekends in May (except Bank Holidays), Dianna will be back at the Sussex Nightstop House at 121 Freshfields Road, Venue #3 in the Hanover/ Queens Park Trail of Artists Open Houses, with a selection of open edition prints and cards. She has donated a print for the charity, available to view at the venue.

https://rosamagazine.co.uk/botanical-art-fair/tickets www.hernehillartfair.com www.diannajazwinski.com

visual arts & contemporary crafts

ROSA Botanical Art Fair

Flora in Art + Design

West Dean, Chichester, 1st to 4th May

Nature’s Masterpieces: Artistic Brilliance Blooms at ROSA Botanical Art Fair

Prepare for a spectacular May Day Bank Holiday Weekend as the inaugural ROSA Botanical Art Fair brings a world-class collection of artists to the historic West Dean College and Gardens. Running from 1st to 4th May 2026, this four-day festival is an unmissable showcase of the UK's finest flora-inspired art and design.

A Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Masters

Visitors are invited to embark on an artistic voyage through the grand rooms of West Dean House, where curated exhibitions feature paintings, sculpture, film, textiles and ceramics. The Art + Design Fair on the front lawn is the heart of the event, featuring 30+ stands curated by leading galleries and artists from across the UK.

You can discover rare works by 20th-century masters such as Andy Warhol, Paul Nash, Prunella Clough, Tadek Beutlich, and Robert Tavener. The contemporary roster is equally impressive, featuring bold, vibrant designs from acclaimed artist-designer Sarah Arnett, exquisite nature-inspired jewellery by Alexis Dove, and Fine Art from names like Kate Montgomery, Julian Le Bas, and Linda Felcey. Visitors can also explore specialised botanical pieces by the Society of Botanical Artists.

Artistry in the Elements

The creativity extends into the landscape with a dedicated Sculpture Garden set within the award-winning Spring Gardens, featuring works by sculptors such as Philip Jackson, Annie Trevorah and Julian Wild. Your ticket includes full access to the West Dean Estate Gardens.

Find Your Own Creative Voice

Led by the West Dean College tutors, the fair offers a series of pre-bookable craft taster sessions. You can learn the art of botanical screen printing with Lara Mantell, master the layering of vintage fabrics with Anne Kelly, or capture plant life in a professional watercolour workshop. Additional specialised sessions include botanical beadwork with Holly Parr and painting with Liz Shippam.

Complete your day with a stop at the vintage tea marquee or enjoy homegrown dishes at the Gardens Kitchen. With free parking and FREE entry for children aged 16 and under, it is a perfect Bank Holiday day out for art lovers and families alike. botanicalartfair.co.uk

CRANBROOK ART SHOW

visual arts & contemporary crafts

The Patterson Gallery at the Lansdowne Hotel, Eastbourne

Peter Patterson, founder of The Patterson Gallery, enjoys and displays a wide variety of artistic styles. We asked him about his journey as a gallery owner.

Tell us about your first interest in art. How did that come about?

As a child and through to my teenage years I was interested in drawing. But then rock’n’roll, scooters, girls and work all took precedence!

As a Director of a printing company, I was asked to take a proof into Channel 4 for approval. The man that passed the proof asked if I printed catalogues, I said yes. This was John Austin whose business partner was William Desmond, and they ran a gallery in Bloomsbury called Ausitn/Desmond. This opened my eyes to British Contempary Artists, which is what they dealt in. I worked for them for twelve years. When did you first decide to open a gallery, and how have things progressed since then?

Through my connection with Austin/Desmond, I became very interested in art. Whilst in the Council Office of Basildon I discovered a collection of work that they did not realise what they had; a Terry Frost, Ivon Hitchens, Alan Davie, Elisabeth Frink, Victor Vasarely, R B Kitaj, Barbara Hepworth, William Scott and many more, comprising 66 pieces of artwork. I became a trustee of The Basildon Arts Trust, pulled all the work together and created a catalogue. Unfortunately, we were not supported by the Arts Council of England, as it was then known. But the local shopping mall gave me an empty space, of about 2,000 sq ft, and I displayed most of the artwork in there. Local artists came and joined in. We were there for five months with nearly 50,000 people through the door.

I loved working in the BAT gallery, and due to a change of circumstances I decided to set up a gallery in Barleyands Craft Village with a framer. This was in 2007 just before the financial crisis.

In 2014 we moved down to Horsebridge, north of Hailsham; opened a gallery in Alfriston; moved into Hyde Gardens in Eastbourne. Then after Covid I closed the gallery and started holding monthly pop-up exhibitions in The Lansdowne Hotel in Eastbourne. They converted one of their banqueting suites into a bespoke gallery so I now have a permanent space in The Lansdowne Hotel.

Is there a particular genre or style of art which you are most drawn to?

I like all styles of artwork, and I hang what I like. I have a sense of the work, the passion and the energy that goes into producing a piece of artwork that I believe the public recognises as well.

from top: Leila Godden, Behind the Clouds; Louisa Crispin, Peacock PB008; Gina Southgate, Binker Golding Trio; Susie Ramsay-Smith, Rock Pool, ceramic & glass

visual arts & contemporary crafts

The team behind the CRANBROOK ART SHOW

The Cranbrook Art show has been impressing audiences for thirty years.

Each year the selection and curation process becomes more challenging, as the team behind it strive to maintain the excellent reputation they have built up with both artists and visitors alike. The team do not rest on their laurels and aim to bring new and diverse artists to the show each year, without compromising on the high standards they have become known for; there is always something new to discover and the show stays fresh and exciting. New visitors are often surprised by the level of work on display, one remarking last year that it was “as good as any London show!” Quite remarkable for an annual show held in a small Kent town.

Set up to support local artists, the show continues to be organised on a not-for-profit basis, by a team of professional artists. The team are currently preparing behind the scenes to carefully curate another show-stopping selection of artists from the open call, which closes on the 1st of May.

Who comprises the team?

Felicity Flutter, Annie Waring,

Sandra Fernadez, Jade Taylor and Karen Papworth make up the current team and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table when it comes to putting on a show.

Whilst they cannot reveal the 2026 lineup yet, you can be sure it will be a mix of familiar established names and fresh new talent. This carefully curated exhibition showcases a wide range of media and styles of the highest quality, presented in the stunning venue of the Vestry Hall this November. Definitely a show to add to your diary in the run up to the festive season.

The Cranbrook Art Show runs from 5th to 7th November. www.cranbrookartshow.org.uk

at Benenden Art Fair

Applications for Benenden Art Fair 2026 are open until Friday 24th April and we’d love to hear from you!

For those who don’t know, BAF is a wonderful annual fair in the heart of Kent. Our mission is to showcase the wide range of artistic talent in the South East, most of whom are right on our doorstep!

We are now looking for artists to join us for our third year this Autumn. We welcome artists from Kent and Sussex at any stage in their career, working in any medium. Whether you’ve been creating for years or just starting out, we’d love to hear from you.

If you are interested in taking part, please get in touch by email benendenartfair@ gmail.com or sign up to our newsletter via our website. Thank you to those who have applied so far, it’s wonderful to see so much enthusiasm for the fair.

We look forward to hearing from you, Hannah and the BAF Team.

top: Hannah Buchanan, Steam Train, 2025, Oil on board above: Willow Stacey, Ranunculus, 2026, Pen on paper right: Polly Bennet, Polben Pigments left: Scarlett Woodman, Draping, 2026, Emulsion on corrugated iron

Readers, I hope you are as excited as I am for this year’s fair. With over thirty-five recognised and emerging artists exhibiting, you are bound to find something you will love. Please put the date in your diaries and help us spread the word, the fair wouldn’t be the same without you!

Benenden Art Fair 2nd – 4th October 2026 www.benendenartfair.com @benendenartfair

visual arts & contemporary crafts

GALLERY@42, Eastbourne

The Spaces Between the Brushstrokes: Capturing the Unseen

We often judge a piece of art by its technical brilliance –the precision of a line or the depth of a glaze. But what exists in the spaces between those brushstrokes? For this issue, Gallery@42 asked six diverse artists to look past the physical and reveal the one ‘unseen’ element they strive to capture in every creation.

The Question: Beyond the technical execution, what is the one ‘unseen’ element you strive to capture in every piece you create?

Sue Branch

(Landscape Artist): “Beyond the brushwork, I strive to capture the ‘wild’ energy of the South Downs. Using the bold palettes of the Fauvists, I aim to translate the quiet beauty of our county into a visual shout. It’s about catching the 'emotional eye' and creating a piece that feels as vibrant as the landscape itself.”

Colin Knapp (Abstract Collages): “While sometimes evident in the titles, the one 'unseen' element that conditions all of my work is the influence of my background in professional theatre and later as a lecturer in drama. This applies equally to the ideas and narratives that inform my pictures and the techniques I employ.”

Lindy Dunbar

(Figurative Artist): “I aim to grasp the sense of life, movement, character, and individuality in the person I draw or paint. This is my fascination and challenge. If they are moving, performing, or dancing, it is a distinct advantage – though certainly a tricky one to capture.”

Pennie Cunliffe-Lister

(Bespoke Pet Portraitist): “I strive to capture the unseen soul – that adoring 'spark of life' defining a pet’s character. My goal is to immortalise the profound, silent connection shared with their owner, translating an individual spirit onto canvas as a living, cherished memory.”

from top: Colin Knapp, Arlecchino Targeted, paper collage; Pennie Cunliffe-Lister, Luna, watercolour ink and pastel; Sue Branch, Palette of the Downs, oil on board

visual arts & contemporary crafts

Ed Gouldstone

(Architectural Drawings & Mobiles): “I always look for something that interests me in a subject – it could be the light, a repeating pattern, how particular shapes interact, or just the fall of a shadow. I try to bring that out, focusing on both the visual details and the overall mood of the scene.”

Maxine Monaghan

Natalie Holliday (Textile Artist): “Beyond technical execution, I strive to capture the ocean’s quiet harmony through hand woven textiles. As threads move through the loom, they echo the movement of waves and reflections of sunlit water, resulting in tactile fabrics that carry a calm, natural balance.”

(Slow Exposure Night Photographer): “For me, it’s stillness. Technical skill can capture the light, but I want the viewer to feel that sudden, heavy quiet that happens when nature does something spectacular. It’s that split second where my internal monologue stops, my shoulders drop, and I'm fully present in that 'vast and alive' moment. I try to bottle that feeling of being small but connected.”

Bringing the ‘Unseen’ into Your Home Gallery@42 appreciates that purchasing a work of art is a deeply personal matter. It is more than a transaction; it is the welcoming of an artist’s spirit into your own private space. Because choosing the right piece is such a significant decision, we offer a unique 'Try Before You Buy' service. For a 50% refundable deposit, any work may be trialled in your home to see how the light, space, and energy of the piece fit your environment. This popular service ensures that when you finally commit to a piece, you do so with full confidence and satisfaction.

Visit Gallery@ 42 South Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4XB to discover the piece that speaks to your heart. Thursdays to Sundays 12-6pm: Mondays to Wednesdays by appointment only. www.galleryat42.co.uk

from top: Maxine Monaghan, Stairway to Seven Sisters; Natalie Holliday, Waves, hand woven linen, cotton and pineapple fibre; Lindy Dunbar, Dancer in Red; Ed Gouldstone, A sketch in pen and ink of Tate Britain central hallway

performing arts – theatre

The Last Laugh

Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne 26th to 30th May

Three Legendary Comedians… One very unusual dressing room. Enjoy smash hit West End play The Last Laugh in May, which imagines three of Britain's all-time greatest comedy heroes –Eric Morecambe, Bob Monkhouse and Tommy Cooper, in a dressing room discussing the secret of life, death, comedy and what it means to be funny… really funny!

Written and Directed by the award-winning Paul Hendy, The Last Laugh stars Damian Williams as Tommy Cooper, Simon Cartwright as Bob Monkhouse and Steve Royale as Eric Morecambe.

Bob Monkhouse was a smooth-talking comedian, actor, radio broadcaster, writer and TV presenter. His successful career spanned over five decades gaining him an OBE, a Lifetime Achievement Award for Comedy (British Comedy Awards) and a Special Award for Outstanding Contribution to Broadcasting (TV and Radio Industries Club).

One half of Britain’s most iconic double-act in entertainment, Eric Morecambe and his partner Ernie Wise were an absolute staple of British television. Their forty-year variety career saw them become one of the most adored comedy acts in history.

Tommy Cooper, known for his quick wit, his perfect

from

become a

entertainer and a member of the exclusive Magic Circle. His holiday home in Eastbourne Old Town was a favourite place of his to visit!

The Last Laugh is performed nightly at 7.45pm with three 2.30pm matinees on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

And look out for The Car Man at the Congress Theatre, Eastbourne, Wednesday 18th to 21st November, Matthew Bourne’s award-winning dance thriller, which we will feature in our next issue.

Visit www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk for more information about these and other productions.

Rainbow Shakespeare

Pack up those picnics, dust off your folding chairs, and prepare yourselves for the awesome magic that Rainbow Shakespeare brings to the beautiful setting of Highdown Gardens, Worthing this summer.

Rainbow’s mission is to present understandable and enjoyable Shakespeare for all the family. “As a child, I was lucky enough to see Shakespeare at London’s Old Vic,” commented Director, Nick Young, “and I wanted Worthing audiences to gain the same love of the Bard as I got then. Tell the stories of the plays without gimmicks and let the enchantment woo the audiences.”

First up in the season is:

Romeo & Juliet: 7th to 12th July

Verona…two warring families…and a pair of starcrossed lovers! Romeo Montague gatecrashes the Capulets party where he falls in love with Juliet. However, things go awry when Tybalt Capulet kills

Romeo’s best friend Mercutio in a duel which Romeo avenges and is then banished. A perfect summer romance, coloured with dances and swordfights!

Richard III: 14th to 19th July

Shakespeare’s take on the dastardly rise to power of Richard, Duke of Gloucester. In the aftermath of the Wars of the Roses, Richard subverts King Edward IV from the throne; has the young princes murdered in the Tower of London and manipulates Lady Anne into marrying him. Expect to be entertained with humour, intrigue and battles!

A company of sparkling professional actors including Highdown regulars Simon Pennicott (starring as Richard III), Peter McCrohon, Alexander J Smith and April Singley will be joined by newcomers and some community performers to bring the plays alive in memorable productions that will stay with you through-out the rest of the year!

Tickets via Worthing Theatres box office on 01903 206 206 or wtm.uk www.rainbowshakespeare.co.uk for more details.

performing arts – theatre

Uckfield Picture House & The Atrium, East Grinstead

Artist Frida Kahlo takes centre stage in May with Exhibition on Screen's extended encore including exclusive new material, and the Met Opera's live transmission of 'The Last Dream of Frida and Diego'.

Frida Kahlo is a phenomenon. She is arguably the world’s favourite female artist – beloved by young and old. Award-winning Exhibition on Screen’s film, Frida Kahlo –first released during covid to a restricted audience – is back by popular demand with exciting new footage from the blockbuster transatlantic exhibition from Tate Modern and MFA Houston ‘Frida: The Making of an Icon’.

Back in cinemas one month before the Tate exhibition opens, the film allows audiences to watch both the film and see the smash hit show about this much-loved artist whose dreamlike painting El sueño (La cama) recently sold for $54.7 million, breaking the record for the most expensive work by a female artist at auction.

The film now features additional new material from the groundbreaking new Tate Modern and MFA Houston exhibition. Experts examine Kahlo’s transformation into a global brand and the new generation of artists and activists that have identified with her and carried her legacy. The film culminates by previewing the exhibition’s look at ‘Fridamania’ giving viewers a front row seat to see some of the commercial objects that encompass her art, image, style and persona.

Exhibition on Screen’s trademark combination of interviews with world experts and a detailed exploration of her art, with new special bonus footage from the

curators of the blockbuster 2026 exhibition, delivers a treasure trove of colour and emotion. This personal and intimate film offers privileged access to her works, her home, her studio and highlights the source of her feverish creativity, her resilience and her unmatched lust for life, beauty and revolution.

El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego (The Last Dream of Frida and Diego), a live transmission premiere from the Metropolitan Opera.

On 30th May, the Metropolitan Opera’s 2025–26 Live in HD season comes to a close with a live transmission of American composer Gabriela Lena Frank’s first opera, a magical-realist portrait of Mexico’s painterly power couple Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, with libretto by Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright Nilo Cruz.

Fashioned as a reversal of the Orpheus and Euridice myth, the story depicts Frida, sung by leading mezzosoprano Isabel Leonard, leaving the underworld on the Day of the Dead and reuniting with Diego, portrayed by baritone Carlos Álvarez. The famously feuding pair briefly relive their tumultuous love, embracing both the passion and the

pain before bidding the land of the living a final farewell.

Music Director Yannick NézetSéguin conducts the Met-premiere staging of Frank’s opera, a “confident, richly imagined score” (The New Yorker) that “bursts with color and fresh individuality” (Los Angeles Times). The vibrant new production, taking enthusiastic inspiration from Frida and Diego’s paintings, is directed and choreographed by Deborah Colker.

www.picturehouseuckfield.com www.atriumeastgrinstead.com

far left: Frida Kahlo, Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird, 1940, Bridgeman; bottom left: Frida Kahlo, The Two Fridas, 1939 © Exhibition On Screen; left: Isabel Leonard and Carlos Álvarez in El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego

TWODS Musicals presents EVITA

26th to 30th May, the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s smash hit musical Evita is coming to Tunbridge Wells this May, hot on the heels of its hugely successful West End revival last year. TWODS Musicals will perform the rags to riches story of the trail blazing First Lady of Argentina live on stage.

Featuring the iconic balcony solo 'Don’t Cry for Me Argentina' as well as the heart-wrenching musical numbers 'You Must Love Me' and 'Another Suitcase in Another Hall' – Evita bursts with passion and power. Its chart-topping score combines Latin influences and rock together with poignant lyrics and storytelling that have captivated audiences over the decades.

From the humble streets of rural Argentina to the glittering heights of fame and power, Evita tells the true story of Eva Perón – the woman who became a myth, a movement and a mystery. Driven by fierce ambition and unshakable charm, young Eva Duarte fought her way from poverty to the presidential palace, capturing the hearts of a nation and defying the world’s expectations. To her people, she was a saint. To her critics, a scandal. But to history – she remains unforgettable.

Performances take place every evening at 7.30pm with matinees at 2.30pm on 27th and 30th May. There will be a BSL signed performance at 7.30pm on 27th May.

Visit www.twods.org or call the box office on 01892 554441 for tickets and full information.

performing arts – theatre

This Is My Theatre

The Great Gatsby and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

This Is My Theatre is having a very busy season. Following on from their enchanting production of Jane Eyre and magical A Midsummer Night's Dream mini tour, from June to August this critically acclaimed theatre company are touring The Great Gatsby and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland throughout the region and beyond.

Shimmy into the Roaring Twenties, where the champagne flows, the jazz trumpet blows, and the American Dream gleams with irresistible allure. This electrifying stage adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel brings Jay Gatsby’s glittering world to life – a place of opulence, obsession, and heartbreak.

As Nick Carraway is drawn into the orbit of his mysterious neighbour, the secrets behind Gatsby’s lavish parties begin to unravel, revealing a story of love lost and illusion pursued. Featuring live music and a dynamic ensemble, This Is My Theatre’s adaptation invites audiences to experience one of literature’s best-loved stories like never before – glamorous, grandiose and undeniably… Great! Curiouser and curiouser... step through the looking glass and into a world where nothing is quite as it seems. Join Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole and encounters a whirlwind of curious characters – the grinning Cheshire Cat, the frantic White Rabbit, the eccentric Mad Hatter, and the fearsome Queen of Hearts. This timeless tale of imagination, riddles, and wonder comes to life on stage in a dazzling production full of humour, music, and a touch of madness. Perfect for dreamers of all ages, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland invites you to lose yourself in the magic of one of literature’s most beloved journeys! Visit www.thisismytheatre.com

Two diverse musical genres at ROPETACKLE ART CENTRE in

Shoreham

10th May Down In Laurel Canyon

Oh my, the music that came out of Laurel Canyon in the late 60s and early 70s was truly amazing. Laurel Canyon, hidden deep within California’s Hollywood hills, was a hub of musicianship and counterculture, and home to some of America’s most influential artists.

Down In Laurel Canyon is a seven-piece band based in Liverpool, UK, featuring professional touring musicians, re-imagining the timeless catalogue of songs that came from the Canyon in a nostalgic journey back in time.

From the harmonies of The Mama’s & The Papa’s and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young to the evocative ballads of James Taylor and Joni Mitchell, join the band as they take you on a trip down memory lane and re-visit the music that was born in those Canyon Hills and stood the test of time. From Neil Young to Carole King, The Byrds to The Doors, Fleetwood Mac and The Beach Boys, there’s something for everyone.

22nd May Gallowstreet

This is a Dutch brass band with an attitude. Hailing from the Galgenstraat in Amsterdam they have refined their sound through the course of five albums. Over a decade of innovating brass music, Gallowstreet has been up and at it. Armed with seven horn players and one drummer the band employs a wide range of musical genres to tell stories with their compositions, most of them beat driven, all of them with anthemic quality.

The band has proven to be a big inspiration for the emerging European Brass Band scene. There’s not a week that goes by without a video of one of the songs being covered by young enthusiastic brass bands from around the globe.

Their songs have seen re-arrangements for a wide range of ensembles and they are a very well-travelled, seasoned ensemble that knows the crack of the whip when it comes to playing big shows for large crowds.

Visit https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk for all that’s happening at the centre.

THE OLD MARKET joins forces with Brighton Festival to present Of Land, Sea and Sky

A new immersive season marking the Festival’s 60th edition

Bringing together electronic music, installation and live performance, this offering explores our connection to environment and place, while celebrating collaboration between artists, communities and cultural partners, including support by the Enjoolata Foundation.

The season opens with a hometown headline show from Brighton-based electronic artist Changing Currents, whose genre-fluid sets have taken him from sold-out international dates to Glastonbury Festival.

Audiences can then dive into Sounds of the Ocean, an award-winning immersive experience blending whale and dolphin song with original music and ocean imagery to create a calming, all-ages underwater journey.

TAKKUUK shares stories of indigenous life and climate change in the Arctic through a powerful international collaboration of musicians and visual artists including electronic duo Bicep, visual artist Zac Norman and filmmaker Charlie Miller.

The season concludes with musician and artist Werkha presenting Saturama, an immersive performance inspired by the temperate rainforests of the British Isles, created in collaboration with

environmental researchers, activists and wild spaces. Also, from 6th to 21st May people can experience a Sound Bath – enjoy an immersive space and drift into the sounds and visuals of the natural world.

Mark Gordon, Marketing and Communications Manager of The Old Market, says, “We’re incredibly proud to be working alongside Brighton Festival for Of Land, Sea and Sky. Collaboration is at the heart of this season, and partnerships like this are vital for venues and festivals to create ambitious, meaningful work, and for the good of the city we all love. We cannot wait to welcome audiences in for this exciting new offering!” Visit www.theoldmarket.com for more information about this and all other performances.

Of Land Sea & Sky, 2nd to 23rd May

The Old Market, 11a Upper Market Street, Hove

above: TAKKUUK; below: Sounds of the Ocean

Two examples of unmissable MELTING VINYL gigs coming up

Tamikrest plus special guests 16th June at Hope & Ruin, Brighton

An iconic Saharan rock band, Tamikrest was formed in 2006 and inspired by the musical heritage of Tinariwen, and driven by the desire to amplify the oppressed voice of the Kel Tamasheq (Tuareg) people, the group quickly made their mark.

Their first two albums, Adagh (2010) and Toumastin (2011), showcased an already sharp sense of melody and songwriting. The arrival of Paul Salvagnac for their third album, Chatma (2013) reinforced the band’s shift towards a more powerful rock sound. Dedicated to the struggles of women in the Sahara, the album was hailed by the specialised press as a major work of the Ishumar music genre. It was awarded a Songlines Award for Best Album of the Year in 2013.

It is above all on stage that the band’s psychedelic rock, blending hypnotic trance and melody, fully reveals their power.

On 25th June look out for Juni Habel performing in the area.

Juni is a Norwegian singer-songwriter known for her delicate, folk inspired music and introspective song writing.

Juni Habel grew up in rural Norway, surrounded by a close-knit family and nature, which deeply influenced her music. She was a Forest School child, spending her childhood climbing trees, building cabins, and exploring the outdoors. Her grandmother gave Juni her first guitar when she was ten, fostering her early musical development.

She balances her artistic career with her life as a school teacher, gardener and artist, living in a rural setting with her family and pets.

Visit www.meltingvinyl.co.uk for all gigs through spring and summer.

Paul Gunn Trio comes to Hastings

24th May at Barnaby’s Lounge

The inimitable Paul Gunn returns to Hastings for a lunchtime concert to play his unique music that combines Baroque and Latin influences.

He is joined by classical cellist Helen Thomas, currently with The London Philharmonic Orchestra, and jazz drummer David Rohoman,

formerly with Django Bates, Mornington Lockett and Ian Dury.

An engaging and charismatic band leader, pianist Paul Gunn's approach to music is very much his own, transcending boundaries and styles.

If you are looking for something fresh, unique and vital with strong melodic and rhythmic qualities, this is for you!

1.30pm Sunday 24th May. Barnaby’s Lounge, 46 Robertson Street, Hastings TN34 1HL.

Admission free: suggested donation £6 – £10

To listen to Paul’s latest album visit paulgunn.bandcamp.com

Visit paulgunn.net for more information and more music.

pictured left: Paul Gunn

performing arts

LIVE MUSIC IN HORSHAM Spring 2026 presented by Horsham Music Circle for the 84th Season

SATURDAY 16th MAY

St Mary’s Church 7.00pm

CANTABILE - The London Quartet Humour & Harmony a cappella style

Known for their trademark mix of comedy, charm and virtuosity they have long been recognised as one of Britain’s great vocal groups.

The programme journeys through Renaissance elegance, Baroque splendour, Holst, Ginastera and contemporary gems before bursting into an uplifting mix of jazz favourites, pop classics and comic flair.

TICKETS Phone: 01403 252602

email: horshammusiccircle@gmail.com

online: www.wegottickets.com/HorshamMusicCircle www.horsham-music-circle.org.uk

HORSHAM MUSIC CIRCLE

Cantabile: The London Quartet 16th May at 7.00pm in St Mary’s Church

Horsham Music Circle closes its Spring Series with the ever-popular Cantabile – The London Quartet, returning with their renowned blend of vocal finesse, effortless charm and sparkling humour.

With over forty years of international touring the ensemble – William Purefoy (counter-tenor), Mark Fleming and Christopher O’Gorman (tenors), and Michael Steffan (baritone) – remain one of Britain’s most beloved a cappella groups. With impeccable musicianship and joyous entertainment, Cantabile offers the perfect finale to the Spring Series and celebrates the Music Circle’s 84th anniversary – a concert sure to leave audiences smiling.

Tickets from horshammusiccircle@gmail.com 01403 252602. www.horsham-music-circle.org.uk. wegottickets.com/HorshamMusicCircle for details.

THE INTERNATIONAL INTERVIEW CONCERTS

Conceived in Worthing – now appearing beyond

The IICs are to make their third appearance at The Spring Arts Centre in Havant.

Until last year, only Worthing had been interested. But this small venue, seeking a fresh approach to offering classical music in the competitive hinterland of Portsmouth and Chichester, is the first to spot the synergy and act.

The IICs began in 2012, adding inspirational conversation so that audiences felt they’d actually met performing musicians normally expected simply to smile, bow and vacate the concert platform, maybe after an unannounced encore.

That ‘platform’ has since become a stage. The IICs, an informative, revelatory entertainment about professional musicians’ lives and music, raised awareness of the artist-audience connection vital to retain and grow modern classical audiences – many now maturing 1960s-70s children with

a 50-years-evolved curiosity about their performing pin-ups. ‘Ask A Question’ is the IICs’ invitation to them to join the conversation and discover the personality and opinions concealed during conventional classical concerts.

Malaysian pianist Julian Chan’s Beethoven, Schubert (Sonatas), Chopin (Ballade), Alkan (Aesop’s Feast) and Godowsky (Java Suite) shape his ‘Visions Virtuosic’ IIC appearances at Worthing’s St Symphorian’s Durrington Hill (24th May) and The Spring (29th May).

Visit www.facebook.com/TheInterviewConcerts

Castle, Tango at the Secret Vineyard, a harp recital in Alfriston, a talented young violinist in Hellingly, and international recorder virtuoso Piers Adams at Michelham Priory.

For more information, concert details, booking and memberships visi musicboxwealden.co.uk.

Music Box Wealden classical

music on your doorstep

Paradoxically, it all started with a trip to China. When pianist William Hancox was invited to play in Beijing, he first tried out his programme in a local church – and realised on his return that the local experience had been more authentic and rewarding than the international one!

That was the inspiration for Music Box Wealden, a groundbreaking initiative which has built an enthusiastic following for its concerts, championing local artists and emerging talents in intimate, atmospheric venues from castles to cinemas.

The response from local music lovers has been extraordinary. In less than three years, Music Box has staged over fifty concerts, filled more than 4,000 seats and employed dozens of local professionals –no mean feat, given that ninety per cent of its funding comes from ticket sales and its membership scheme. It all shows that there’s a real appetite for exciting, varied, affordable classical music in the small towns and villages of East Sussex.

In the coming months you can find Scenes from the Savoy at Herstmonceux

spring & summer festivals

Here comes the sun

A preview of some of the varied festivals in our region happening throughout 2026

Lewes Festival of Song

5th July, St Anne’s Church

Weshare our love of the rich fusion of words and music that is classical song, exploring both its deep roots in tradition and its flowering right here and now. Our concerts are given by world-class performers, and our emphasis is on communication, vivid music-making, and above all, the sheer beauty of this repertoire.

This is a special summer evening concert; we have a recital by Nicholas Mulroy, tenor, accompanied by festival founder and artistic director Nancy Cooley, piano, with Britten’s Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo and Fauré’s La Bonne Chanson, as well as songs by Vaughan Williams, Roger Quilter and Rebecca Clarke. This recital is also part of Britten: 50 years on. Tickets £20, Under 35s £10 Available online www.lewesfestivalofsong.co.uk/2026-programme

Villages Music Festival presents:

The Astatine Trio

19th June

St John the Baptist Church, Ripe

It’s nearly two years since young chamber music friends The Astatine Trio first appeared at an intimate Villages Music Festival event in Ripe, East Sussex. Sisters Berniya and Riya, from Brighton, joined up with Maya Horvat at the Royal College of Music in London in 2021. Now they return to Ripe as BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artists for 2025-27; last year they were second prize and special prize winners at the 2025 Franz Schubert and Modern Music Competition in Graz – becoming the first UK-based ensemble to win a main prize in the competition’s history. Their programme for Friday 19th June includes a dramatic contemporary piece by the Canadian composer, Kelly-Marie Murphy, called ‘Give Me Phoenix Wings To Fly', inspired by lines from Keats and Robert Graves. It is followed by Mendelssohn’s Trio number 1, and Beethoven’s Archduke Trio. Since Astatine’s last appearance Ripe church has undergone renovations to the ceiling and walls and is looking beautiful; it has a wonderful acoustic for chamber music. All details at villagesmusicfestival.org

spring & summer festivals

Shipley Arts Festival 2026

Experience Extraordinary Music in Exceptional Places

Some musical experiences stay with you not because of their scale, but because of how and where you encounter them – in beautiful surroundings, with listeners gathered close around the music.

Now in its 26th year, the Shipley Arts Festival continues to offer a season shaped by these kinds of discoveries. Its concerts unfold within characterful settings where audiences sit close to the performers, often without the formality of a stage, allowing the music to be experienced with unusual clarity and immediacy.

In these intimate surroundings, familiar works reveal new detail. The soaring lines of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, the lyricism of Schubert’s chamber music, or the intricate patterns of Bach’s Goldberg Variations take on a different presence when heard at such proximity. Alongside them, contemporary voices and new commissions bring a quiet sense of exploration.

Across an early summer season of concerts in and around Warnham, Chichester, Dorking, Pulborough and the Knepp Estate, no two evenings are quite the same, yet each offers something increasingly rare – the chance to listen closely, and to feel part of the performance itself.

Explore the full programme and book tickets at www.BMGLive.com.

spring & summer festivals

Lewes Baroquefest

15th to 18th July

Lewes Baroquefest takes place with six concerts in the historic churches of St Anne’s and St Michael’s in Lewes, East Sussex. Artistic directors Julia Bishop and John Hancorn have put together a lively and varied programme.

Countertenor Charles Humphries joins Julia Bishop and harpsichordist David Wright for baroque arias by J S Bach and Handel. Jean Kelly will showcase the Bray Harp, with its distinctive buzzing, and the Celtic Harp with music from the cloister to the dance floor. String quartets by Henry Purcell and his teacher John Blow feature in our concert with Baroque Collective regulars Alison Bury and Julia Bishop, violins, Annette Isserlis, viola, and Catherine Rimer, cello. Tenor Hugo Hymas, soprano Charlotte la Thrope and lutenist Sergio Bucheli trace the expressive range of early song from private melancholy to courtly elegance. And Flauguissimo –Flautist Yu-Wei Hu and theorbo/ guitarist Johan Löfving – present a spirited and diverse programme.

This year’s Festival Finale, Handel’s Acis and Galatea, is one of Handel’s most popular dramatic masques. A pastoral delight with a dark thread of drama, this charming tale of good versus bad features two lovers and evil cyclops Polyphemus. Highlights include a virtuosic recorder part in the famous aria O Ruddier than the Cherry. Star tenor Nick Pritchard will play hero Acis with baritone Andrew Davies as wicked

Polyphemus and soprano Elspeth Pigott as Galatea, conducted by John Hancorn with the Baroque Collective and Baroque Collective Singers. Visit www.lewesbaroquefest.org for full details of the programme.

and celtic harp left: Flauguisimo duo, flautist Yu-Wei Hu and theorbo/guitarist Johan Löfving

spring & summer festivals

Lewes Chamber Music Festival

12th to 14th June

Spreadover three days, there will be events and concerts in the intimate settings of St John sub Castro Church, St Michael’s Church, and the Depot Cinema in Lewes. The 2026 Festival sees fifteen of today’s most exciting chamber musicians and soloists gathering to present a wonderfully diverse programme, celebrating Kurtag’s 100th anniversary via the festival’s theme of exploring musical legacy.

The programme includes Ravel’s Piano Trio, Janáček’s 'Intimate Letters' Quartet, Ligeti’s brilliant horn trio, and Bach’s Goldberg Variations in the brilliant Sitkovetsky string trio arrangement. We are especially thrilled to welcome rising star tenor Laurence Kilsby for the Festival Gala performance of Britten’s Les Illuminations as a nod to the 50th anniversary of the composer’s death, accompanied by this year’s exceptional international roster of festival musicians. Curated by Artistic Director Beatrice Philips: “When considering the musical influences of the life of György Kurtág I inevitably was led to consider ‘homage’ as a more general concept in creativity. So many composers pay homage to those who inspired them in their writing and it has been wonderful to explore this for the 2026 programme. Kurtág’s time

spent in Paris as well as his Bohemian ancestry means the programme is rich and varied – whilst always coming back to the intensely personal nature of his miniatures ‘Signs, Games and Messages’ – an intimacy only possible in a chamber-music setting.”

The festival retains its signature rhythm – from an open rehearsal at the Depot Cinema on 11th June providing the chance to get up close to the musicians and hear how they work, to the opening Friday lunchtime concert, to which local school children are invited, through the much-anticipated late-night performance, to the Sunday morning coffee concert – with the return of locally roasted coffee and homemade cakes – and culminating in a Sunday afternoon Festival Finale. www.leweschambermusicfestival.com for all details.

‘Peasmarsh … is a magical Festival’ –Sir David Hare, in The Observer

Peasmarsh Chamber Music Festival

June 25th to 28th

Concerts in Peasmarsh and Rye

The 2026 Festival takes place with our customary combination of world class musicians, stunning venues in Peasmarsh and in Rye and, we hope, beautiful midsummer weather! The Festival includes nine performances across four days including an orchestral performance featuring the acclaimed Britten Sinfonia, with our Artistic Directors Anthony Marwood and Richard Lester as soloists together with cellist Kate Gould. We are also delighted to be working in six local primary schools, in a creative project led brilliantly by Sam Glazer, with partners the Astatine Trio, our guest ensemble. This project builds on 20 years of educational partnerships in this special corner of East Sussex, and offers composition and performance opportunities to nearly 200 children each year.

This year’s outstanding guest artists include pianists Valentin Magyar and Marianna Shirinyan, award winning US violist, Jennifer Stumm, and violist Edgar Francis making his Peasmarsh debut alongside returning friends violinist Oliver Heath and cellist Kate Gould. Our concerts take place in the Norman church in Peasmarsh and in St Mary’s in Rye, both beautiful settings in which to listen to stunning classical music. Our programme as always takes audiences on a journey through familiar works and those less well known, we hope offering something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you to our Festival.

General booking is now open. For further details about the programme and to book tickets, please visit www.peasmarshfestival.co.uk

Petworth Summer Festival 2026

16th July to 1st August

Seventeen unforgettable days and thirty eight exceptional events that cover classical music to jazz, blues, world music, contemporary and soul. Also, comedy and a brand new family event at Petworth House Stable Yard. There is something for everyone at the festival this summer. petworthfestival.org.uk/summer-festival-2026

simple but timely idea: The World Around You. In our 20th year, this Festival is an invitation to look outward, at our environment, each other, and at the shared spaces we inhabit.

Using the arts in all their multifaceted glory, we aim to unite, reflect and inspire. In doing so, we encourage our community to join us in celebrating a legacy of creative expression from the past two decades. Booking goes live mid-June at www.hailshamfestival.co.uk –expect a packed programme of theatre, music, dance, film, art, and comedy for all ages and plenty of free community involvement. hailshamfestival.co.uk for full information.

Hailsham Festival of Arts & Culture

5th to 20th September

The festival returns for its 20th Anniversary this September and invites you to celebrate two weeks of arts and culture appreciation in and around Hailsham’s town centre. This year’s Festival is shaped around a

spring & summer festivals

Southdowns Music Festival

11th to 13th September

Building on the success of the past few years, the 2026 Festival in sunny Bognor Regis promises to be even bigger & better with some really top names from the world of folk and acoustic music.

The 13th Southdowns Music Festival will feature the ever popular Ukulele Festival and staged over three days under marquee plus around town, shanty and dance groups will be entertaining the thousands of people who come to the event. Fascinating festival markets will be in place along the closed seafront and once again, younger musicians and performers will be featured on the brilliant Rox/ Bognorphenia stage over Saturday & Sunday, and what is even better, all this is free!

There will be a whole array of more great free performances in outside venues including the William Hardwicke in the High Street, the RAFA Club in Waterloo Square, Bonito Lounge (London Road), The Lamb (Steyne Street) plus the Dog & Duck in Scott Street.

The main ticketed evening concerts will be staged in Venue 24 on Bognor Regis Pier, including, on Friday 11th Sept, the legendary Phil Beer supported by the superb

duo Megson. Saturday 12th sees the excellent Irish group Roving Crows supported by the delightful Sorrel Nation and on Sunday 13th the fantastic 3 Daft Monkeys are the headliners with popular local performer Ed Goodale supporting.

There are also two great free concerts at Venue 24 on Saturday and Sunday afternoons featuring Americana duo Hollie Rogers and friend (Saturday 12th) plus on Sunday 13th September, the one and only Jez Lowe.

Visit southdownsfolkfest.co.uk for full details.

Lewes Speakers Festival

8th to 10th May

The

Lewes Speakers Festival returns with one of its most ambitious programmes yet, bringing leading thinkers, journalists and writers to Lewes for a stimulating weekend of ideas, debate and culture.

Highlights include former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, discussing Britain’s place in an increasingly uncertain world, and international affairs writer John Kampfner explores how different countries are tackling the political and economic challenges of the 21st century. The programme also features a wide range of speakers discussing global politics, economics, history, science and the future of technology.

Alongside the main talks, the festival offers a rich programme of interactive workshops, giving participants the chance to explore creative and cultural themes in smaller group sessions. A guided festival walk will also explore the fascinating history and landscape of Lewes.

Families are warmly welcomed at the Children’s Book Festival, where well-known children’s authors and illustrators will lead lively storytelling events, drawing sessions and interactive activities designed to inspire young readers and bring books to life.

Now in its fifteenth year, the Lewes Speakers Festival has become one of Sussex’s most popular cultural weekends. For tickets call 0333 666 3366 or visit www.lewesspeakersfestival.com.

spring & summer festivals

Appearing at Lewes Speakers Festival, above: Children's author Holly Bourne; right: international affairs writer John Kampfner

LEWES SPEAKERS FESTIVAL 2026 Where Bold Ideas Soar

8th, 9th and 10th May

All Saints Centre, Lewes

www.lewesspeakersfestival.com

spring & summer festivals

THE ASTATINE TRIO presents 7.00pm Friday 19th June, St John's, Ripe playing Mur phy, Mendelssohn, Beethoven

spring & summer festivals

Baroque arias with countertenor Charles Humphries

Jean Kelly, Bray & Celtic Harp Purcell & Blow string quartets

Early lute song with Hugo Hymas, Charlotte

La Thrope & Sergio Bucheli • Flauguissimo Duo

Handel: Acis & Galatea • Nick Pritchard, Acis

The Baroque Collective Singers & The Baroque Collective • directed by John Hancorn lewesbaroquefest.org

Rose's Odyssey

Tales of love and loss

by Sangita Swechcha

"A poignant portrayal of the complex emotional landscape of people in Nepal and the Nepali diaspora" –Jayant Sharma, translator

A diverse and revealing collection of stories about the lives of ordinary people in a variety of situations and circumstances; exploring relationships, emotions and reactions, missed opportunities, lost love and heartache.

The book starts with the dreamlike titular 'Rose's Odyssey', launching us into a surreal world both fascinating and unfamiliar, in which the narrator identifies a favourite beautiful rose bush with a lost love. He struggles with his emotions as his masculine ego suffers rejection. Whether dream, daydream or reality, this intricately woven story is shot through with threads of truth.

'Unspoken Desire' describes the bitter longing of a single woman as she watches others getting married and having children, but the discovery of a flaw in the apparent matrimonial bliss of one friend reconciles her to a single life. A bus journey fraught with menace is

For the Love of a Child

by Robert Astington

Set against the turbulent backdrop of the early 20th century, this sweeping saga follows the intertwined fates of three families bound by love, a terrible crime, and the scars of war.

The story opens with soldiers returning from the Boer War, tired, wounded but euphoric to be once again on home turf. Among them is 25-year-old Corporal Alfred Wilkins. Though physically unscathed his handsome face hides the mental traumas of war and it takes him months and the romance with beautiful and confident Rose to start feeling normal once more. Meanwhile, across London, recently widowed solicitor Henry Banster finds solace in the friendship of his new secretary, Megan, a cheerful, pretty Welsh lass. Their friendship deepens and, to his surprise, Henry finds himself falling in love again.

As the years pass these two couples tie the knot, settle down and start families. But their new-found happiness is marred by the spectre of conflict as Britain's diplomatic relations with Germany unravel irreparably and the countries plummet into war. Neither family is touched directly by tragedy, however, and they get on with the business of living and raising their children. The war has a greater impact on one

the vehicle for the story 'Boundary of Ideals'. It is an important day at the school and a young teacher, having missed the school bus, journeys to work on a public bus. Jostled among predatory men, she attempts to stand up for her fellow female passengers. In 'The Writer's Story' the life of an aspiring writer is deconstructed by the apparent success of her old friend and her new husband, both writers themselves, with grievous consequences.

With settings ranging from the UK to Nepal and Australia the one constant is the individual's struggle with relationships, their identity, and their desires and ambitions versus reality. In many of the stories the characters are attempting to navigate the culture clash occasioned by their being in a different country.

In a style at times brutally vivid yet poignantly poetic, Nepali author Sangita Swechcha investigates the displacement of being away from one's native country and the longing for that familiarity, while at the same time acknowledging age-old societal customs and the desire to break free from those bonds. It feels intensely personal yet will undoubtedly resonate broadly on a global, human level.

Available online. www.sangitaswechcha.com

French family, as their young daughter fell for a British Army officer. Hasty nuptials follow the arrival of baby Maurice – and thus the stage is set. For these three families, although utterly ignorant of the fact, are to have their lives and futures bound together through love and joy, hardship and tragedy.

Some two decades later another bloody war wreaks havoc, testing our protagonists to their limits, revealing both good and evil aspects of human nature, shattering hearts and a blissful marriage, yet ultimately it delivers unexpected happiness where hope had been extinguished.

Encompassing multiple generations and nearly half a century, this story is a tour de force. Through the characters' experiences we know what it is to fall in love and overcome hardship; to fly an aircraft; to engage in combat; we feel the exhaustion of attempting to escape from behind enemy lines; the horror of a life-changing injury; the numbing tedium alternating with heightened tension in a POW camp; the devastation of sexual assault; the weight of suspicion and the anguish of jealousy; and, ultimately, the unconditional love of a child.

Available from www.troubador.co.uk and via your local independent book store.

The Girl in the Ticket Office Window

by Patricia M Osborne

Zara Wiseman had it all. A good job at a popular magazine, her best friend as flat-mate, and dating dishy devoted Scott. But her settled lifestyle was about to be turned upside down.

One morning as she was about to get on the train to visit her sister she was stunned by a blinding flash. When she opened her eyes she found herself no longer wearing jeans, but an emerald green full length velvet gown, and her surroundings though familiar, were yet somehow different. The usual commuters carrying laptops were replaced by gentlemen in Edwardian attire, and when one of them doffed his hat with “Good Morning Lady Rebecca” she started to panic. But before she could become any more disorientated another blinding flash returned her to 2023. What the hell just happened. On confiding to her sister she was met with disbelief and derision. But curiosity got the better of her and, summoning up her courage, she headed back to the train station. It happened again. As Lady Rebecca she discovered she had a brother and a fiance, Sir Richard Cavendish, but there was a dark secret hanging over

The Flawed Species

by Anthony Brown

'You are like a sleeping giant who has been awoken, my boy. Look out world, here you come.'

It all started when Brandon Waterman arrived to class late after helping an injured cyclist, the victim of a road accident.

Having been given short shrift and his Good Samaritan deed scoffed at, he had a face-off with his maths teacher. Naturally bright, this 13-year-old felt he was learning nothing new by going to school. What a conundrum. He sought the counsel of his mentor, his grandfather. It was at this point he experienced an epiphany. He might not be learning anything new at school, but he could see that some of his fellow students were struggling. What if he were to help them? By working with the teachers he could help lessen their load at the same time. Then his time at school would be worthwhile.

Of course this bright plan met with some serious opposition as noses were put out of joint and egos bruised. So, along with his grandfather he embarked on a strategy to establish a private education facility. Failing students started succeeding and Brandon's project took off. But it soon became apparent that for some failing students it wasn't the quality of education

them. Now both apprehensive and intrigued, Zara repeated the experience. Each time the visit was longer and more vivid until she started to wonder who she really was. She gradually found herself falling for handsome attentive Sir Richard, but what of faithful caring Scott in her own time?

Her work and health in the present started to suffer and friends and family were getting worried. Was she actually delusional as they were all insisting? But it all seemed so real. Were her visits something to do with the dark secret? Did she have a role to play? Or was she, as everyone seemed to think, just losing her mind. Then, quite by chance, she met someone and they immediately hit it off. And in the way that one feels comfortable talking to someone not intimately connected with one's life, Zara confided in her new friend and to her great surprise found herself believed rather than scorned. Is this the lifeline that will anchor Zara firmly in reality, and are there more adventures to come?

The first in Patricia M Osborne's Zara timeslip series, The Girl in the Ticket Office Window is an intriguing glimpse into an alternative reality. Is what we see always to be believed, or are there other possibilities beyond our everyday experience...? Available online, more info at whitewingsbooks.com

alone that was blocking them. Their social situation or mental health also had to be considered. Thus he set out on a journey that would lead him to study psychology.

By this time he had gathered quite an entourage of people who shared his desire to improve conditions in life, and with this little empire started to gain wider recognition, with newspaper articles and appearing on TV debates. One of his acolytes was a fiercely intelligent, beautiful girl called Julia with whom he fell instantly in love. They proved to be an irresistible team. Each area he investigated threw up opposition from vested interests but these didn't have the measure of who they were up against. Tackling them didn't stunt Brandon's purpose, but instead added fuel to his fire. Battle lines were drawn and now psychiatry was in the cross hairs. Backed by his strong core of colleagues and associates he took his discoveries and projected solutions out across the world, gaining support and widening his sphere of influence and, with this close-knit team, bringing his vision of a sane society to fruition.

Spanning nine years, this epic story is part rite of passage, part morality play. It highlights the failings in 20th century society and, dressed in the garb of an engaging modern tale, suggests some solutions.

The Flawed Species is available from Amazon.

poetry prose & illustration

ingénu/e in conversation with author Andrew Houlston

We met Andrew Houlston at the excellent East Grinstead Bookshop, where he was signing copies of his debut novel, 'The Search for Morganuke's Roots', the first in his trilogy of 'The Pagalan Chronicles'. Andrew was charming to chat with and passionate about his stories. After reviewing his book in ingénu/e issue 50, we caught up with Andrew recently to quiz him about his writing.

The Search for Morganuke's Roots' is your debut novel, as well as the first in a trilogy. That's quite an entrance into the world of writing! Have you always wanted to write?

For me, the creation of The Pagalan Chronicles has really been a very long journey. The books themselves may only have begun to appear in recent years, but the world behind them has been forming in my imagination for much longer than that.

I have always been fascinated by the idea of building entire worlds and the concept of hidden civilizations. Not just writing a story, but creating a place with its own history, geography, cultures, conflicts, and mysteries. Over many years I found myself collecting fragments of ideas. Characters would appear in my thoughts. Pieces of history suggested themselves. Sometimes it was a scene, sometimes a place, sometimes simply a question about what might happen if a civilisation developed in a certain way or faced a particular challenge.

All of these ideas gradually began to orbit around a central setting that would eventually become Pagalan. I started making notes, sketching out timelines, imagining the ancient past of the world and the long bloodlines that would shape its future. The story of Morganuke and the events that unfold in The Pagalan Chronicles are really the visible part of a much deeper history that stretches back many generations.

For quite a long time, though, this was something I carried quietly in notebooks and files. My professional career was in advanced technology development, which I enjoyed enormously, but it did not leave much space to properly bring such a large imaginative project together. So, the ideas continued to accumulate over the years.

It was only after I retired three years ago that I finally had the time and freedom to sit down and truly build the world in the way I had always imagined. That was the turning point. Suddenly the scattered notes, sketches, and ideas could be shaped into a coherent narrative.

Once I began writing seriously, the story unfolded remarkably quickly. The characters felt as if they had been waiting patiently for their moment. Morganuke, Melinor, and many of the others emerged with their own voices and journeys. At the same time, the deeper history of Pagalan began to reveal itself through the

companion Origins volumes, which explore the earlier generations that eventually led to Morganuke’s story.

Over time I have also revisited the books themselves.

Like many writers, I see each edition as an opportunity to refine the work. The stories have been carefully reworked, descriptions strengthened, relationships between characters deepened, and the presentation improved with updated artwork and formatting. The core narrative remains the same, but the telling of it has matured. I feel that the current second edition versions of the books represent the series much more fully and reflect the world of Pagalan in the way I always intended.

What excites me most about writing the series is that it is not simply one adventure. It is the unfolding of an entire world across time. There are ancient conflicts, lost technologies, mysterious artefacts, and long family lines whose decisions echo centuries later.

In many ways, the years spent thinking about these ideas before writing the books were invaluable. They allowed Pagalan to develop depth and texture before the first page was ever written. When I finally began the series, it felt less like inventing a world from scratch and more like opening the door to a place that had already been waiting there for a very long time.

The Pagalan Chronicles is an epic fantasy, what prompted you to embark on this particular journey?

What drew me toward writing The Pagalan Chronicles was a long-standing fascination with the idea that civilizations rise, flourish, and sometimes disappear leaving only fragments behind. Those fragments can be tantalising. Ruins, artefacts, halfunderstood technologies, myths that might actually be distorted memories of something very real. I have always found that idea incredibly powerful as a foundation for storytelling.

Many years ago I became interested in books and speculative works that explored the possibility of lost advanced civilizations. One of the most widely known examples is Chariots of the Gods, which captured the imagination of many readers by asking provocative questions about ancient cultures and unexplained artefacts. Whether one agrees with its conclusions or not, the book opened a door to thinking about the distant past in a different way. It

suggested that history might contain deeper layers than we normally assume.

Other works that touched on similar ideas also left a mark on me. Stories such as Rendezvous with Rama and 2001: A Space Odyssey explore encounters with technologies or structures left behind by civilizations far older and more advanced than our own. What fascinated me about those stories was not simply the technology itself, but the sense of scale and mystery. You feel that humanity has stumbled onto something immense, ancient, and only partially understood.

That same sense of discovery is something I wanted to capture in The Pagalan Chronicles. I was drawn to the idea of a world where the present inhabitants are living among the remnants of a far older and more sophisticated civilization. Some of its knowledge has been preserved, some misunderstood, and some entirely lost. When characters encounter these remnants, they are not simply discovering objects. They are confronting the weight of history.

Another important aspect for me was the blending of science fiction and fantasy. I enjoy both genres, but I have always been particularly interested in the space where they overlap. Many classic fantasy worlds rely on overt magic, dragons, or wizards casting spells. Those can be wonderful elements in the right stories, but for Pagalan I wanted something that felt a little more grounded.

Instead of magic wands or spells, the extraordinary elements in the story tend to arise from technologies or energies that are ancient and only partly understood. To the people encountering them, they might appear almost magical, yet beneath the surface there is a logic and structure to how they work. I like the tension that creates. The characters are often trying to understand forces that seem mystical, while the reader gradually realises there may be a deeper scientific explanation.

That approach allows the world to retain a sense of wonder without drifting too far from plausibility. The mysteries of Pagalan are not there simply for spectacle. They are clues pointing toward the long history of the world and the civilizations that shaped it.

In many ways, embarking on The Pagalan Chronicles felt like exploring an archaeological site that existed only in the imagination. Each layer of the story reveals

something older beneath it. Lost cities. Ancient artefacts. Long bloodlines. Decisions made centuries earlier that still echo in the lives of the present characters. That mixture of mystery, history, and speculative possibility is what made the journey into Pagalan so compelling for me to write. And in truth, it is still unfolding.

Like other fantasy works before it (Discworld, Middle Earth etc) you have created an entire world in Pagalan. How challenging was that?

Creating the world of Pagalan was certainly one of the most challenging parts of writing the series, but it was also one of the most enjoyable. A fully imagined world does not appear overnight. It grows gradually, layer by layer, until it begins to feel like a real place with its own internal logic.

For me, the process began with geography. Long before many of the stories were written, I started sketching out maps. A world map was the first step because geography quietly shapes everything else. Mountains create natural barriers, rivers become trade routes, coastlines determine where cities might grow, and distant regions develop in isolation with their own customs and histories. Once the physical world began to take shape on the map, it became easier to imagine what kinds of people might live in those regions and how their cultures might differ from one another. From there the spaces on the map gradually filled in. Different societies began to emerge. Some were seafaring and outward-looking. Others were more isolated or bound to older traditions. Political rivalries, alliances, trade routes and conflicts naturally followed. Over time these cultures developed their own histories, leaders, myths and perspectives on the world around them. In many ways the world-building process felt a little like watching history unfold in slow motion.

In that sense I drew inspiration from writers who have created deeply textured imaginary worlds, such as The Lord of the Rings and Discworld. What makes

poetry prose & illustration

worlds like Middle-earth or Discworld so memorable is that they feel lived in. You sense that events have been happening there long before the story begins and will continue long after it ends.

With The Pagalan Chronicles, the first series explores a particular period in the life of the world. It moves across several regions and cultures, showing how their paths intersect through conflict, alliances, and shared discoveries. But at the same time, the narrative is also slowly revealing something deeper. Beneath the visible events of the present day lie the traces of much older civilizations that once shaped Pagalan in ways that are only partly understood.

So, while the story follows characters like Morganuke and those around him, it is also uncovering the layered past of the planet itself. Ancient artefacts, forgotten technologies, and long-buried histories begin to surface as the narrative progresses. In that way the world is not static. It is constantly revealing new pieces of its own past.

Building Pagalan was therefore less about inventing a single setting and more about constructing a living historical landscape. The map, the cultures, the conflicts, and the remnants of earlier civilizations all had to fit together in a way that felt believable. It took years of gradual development, but that slow process helped give the world the depth that I hope readers can feel as they journey through it.

Be sure to check out our next issue for part two of our interview with Andrew Houlston in which he reveals his advice for aspiring writers. Andrew will be at East Grinstead Bookshop again on 16th May, pop along and say hello. www.optogleantalesltd.uk

VAGABOND SOUL book two of Carrie Evans' memoir coming soon

Vagabond Soul tells the story of a young woman who came of age in the Swinging Sixties and spent the next decade fearlessly traversing the globe in search of romance and adventure.

While Carrie Evans’ first memoir, The Fun We Had, traces her peripatetic childhood and teaching career in ten countries, this second volume offers a thoughtful and intimate look behind the scenes at her personal life.

Embracing the era’s ethos of free love, Carrie launches into adult life with exuberance, fearlessness and a touch of naivety. After reading this book some may wonder how Carrie is still here to tell her tale. Her adventures are full of risk-taking, perhaps even recklessness, as she hitches her way across the Continent and embarks on expeditions further afield, entering into many a liaison along the way.

At times you may be shocked, but you will certainly be entertained and amused as Carrie finds herself in extraordinary situations, only to emerge unscathed and triumphant.

Vagabond Soul is a vivid portrait of a life lived boldly. It is a testament to resilience, curiosity and the enduring appeal and consequences of choosing adventure over convention.

Look out for Vagabond Soul arriving later this year, and discover more information about Carrie and her work at www.carrieevans.co.uk where you can also find her debut memoir, 'The Fun We Had'.

the West Country comes under attack...

The

Kid on Slapton Beach

It’s Spring! Hopefully it’s the end to the wild storms we’ve experienced this winter. Some of the worst weather attacked Cornwall and Devon. Torcross at the western end of Start Bay in the South Hams, where my book The Kid on Slapton Beach is set, has been badly damaged with huge winds and wild waves.

The power of the sea can be extraordinary. People living there said Storm Ingrid was so wild it was shaking the ground, and the waves reached over the roofs of the two-story cottages along the seafront. Properties lost parts of their roofs, with porch fronts destroyed, and concrete slabs ripped up from the ground. The beautiful curved coastal road was covered with shingle, rocks and debris, and completely broken apart halfway along, denying any access that way to Slapton Village and Torcross. Storms have happened before across the years – and of course the cost of repairing the damage again will be huge. Locals might consider moving away.

Christmas 1943: local people around Slapton Sands were forced to leave the coast without knowing why. Not storms arriving then, just loads of GIs. World War II: US forces were planning top secret rehearsals for the landings on the beaches in France. At the end of April 1944 in Start Bay, just five weeks before for the actual D-Day landings, nearly thirty thousand young Americans took part in Exercise Tiger. Everything went wrong. The rear of the convoy was attacked by German E-Boats because the destroyer protecting it was damaged coming out of port and arrived late. Two Landing Ship Tanks, ‘LSTs’, with hundreds of men on board were sunk, with another badly damaged. Typing errors in the

radio frequencies meant no communications between the vessels so no-one knew bombardment of the beach would start an hour late, and live ammunition was meant to be defensively shot over the heads or under the feet of the men running up the Sands – but try that under bombardment. Nearly a thousand young Americans died. “The only thing new in the world is the history you don’t know,” President Truman said. It took me two years to do research for my history novel The Kid on Slapton Beach. Twelve-year-old Harry, the central character, who makes friends with one of the GIs, goes back for the one photo of his father who is away fighting – missing – in Italy. When Exercise Tiger happens Harry and that GI will both be on that beach. My film script from the book won the Best UK Feature Script in the London Director Awards in February, has been a finalist in Cambridge and London Awards, and has been selected to go forward in competitions in New York and Los Angeles. Just imagine if the film was made, how much interest –and investment – might come to Slapton Sands! Visit www.wightdiamondpress.com for more information and watch a trailer for the book here: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhlBx-GJe_k –Felicity Fair Thompson e: ffair77@btinternet.com

top left: Storm at Torcross, photo, Gull Perch Historical Archives; below: D-Day landings; bottom: The Kid On Slapton Beach by Felicity Fair Thompson

The Frogmore Papers

Celebrating work by established, emerging and neglected writers since 1983.

Susbcribe for the next two years for only £15.00.

Fun We Had a memoir of teaching and travel by

Available from your local bookshop and online from Goodreads and Amazon www.carrieevans.co.uk

A tsunami of incident, gossip and character vignettes, an exploration of other cultures sure to entertain anyone with a fascination for human quirks and foibles

“A joyous romp” –Maria Hughes “full of humour, compassion and adventure. If you love travelling you will love reading this book” – F. Bland

HAVE YOU READ IT?

HAVE YOU READ IT?

HAVE YOU READ IT?

The Secret Rehearsals for D-Day...

The Secret Rehearsals for D-Day...

The Secret Rehearsals for D-Day...

“A wonderful book...”

“A wonderful book.. ”

Michelle Magorian

“A wonderful book.. ”

‘Goodnight Mr Tom’

Michelle Magorian

‘Goodnight Mr Tom’

Michelle Magorian

‘Goodnight Mr Tom’

“A pivotal moment in the war.”

“A pivotal moment in the war.”

“A pivotal moment in the war.”

Joint Forces Journal USA

Joint Forces Journal USA

Joint Forces Journal USA

Order from your favourite book store now: Paperback: £8.99

Order from your favourite book store now: Paperback: £8.99

ISBN 978-0-9535123-2-4

Order from your favourite book store now: Paperback: £8.99

ISBN 978-0-9535123-2-4

ISBN 978-0-9535123-2-4

www.wightdiamondpress.com

www.wightdiamondpress.com

www.wightdiamondpress.com

Half a century of poetry in the region

Fifty years ago someone at South East Arts decided it would be a good idea to publish an annual anthology of poetry from the region, and Poetry South East was born.

Howard Sergeant, who founded and edited the poetry journal Outposts for more than forty years, was duly appointed editor, and his inaugural anthology set a high standard for those who followed, including work by Patric Dickinson, Laurence Lerner and Sascha Rabinovitch alongside other poets from the region whose names are less familiar to us now.

The anthology appeared annually until 1983 and was edited by a number of notably diverse writers, including Barry MacSweeney, Patricia Beer, and Anthony Thwaite.

In the year 2000, Poetry South East was revived in a once-a-decade incarnation by the Frogmore Press, then in Folkestone, now in Lewes, very much in the tradition of the original publications and with similar aspirations to take the poetic pulse of the region. Poetry South East 2020 even included new work by four of the poets who appeared in Howard Sergeant’s original edition of 1976: John Arnold, Ian Caws, John Rice and Derek Sellen.

Copies are available from the Frogmore Press. Email frogmorepress@gmail.com for details.

Here are two poems chosen at random from Poetry South East 2020.

Carolyn Oulton After Hours

Evening and the last of the logs begins to slide along the embers, ginger where the heat runs like a feather up and down, just as the sun has already thrown itself down into the crease-line marking hedge and field from sky.

But in the library a man in a cap, a woman in impossible skirt and blouse are still standing on the steps of a public house. With both dogs, and the child that looks like a toy and isn’t. Also a bird has wandered into the foreground and seems to be waiting for the shutter to close.

Maggie Harris Canterbury

Remember the pilgrim, open-toed, with his light step and heart heavy with hope along these roads the Romans laid, under the self-same stars.

Tales tumble through the years, of Vikings, Danes, Bishops and Kings, sisters, brothers, lovers in arms… Lyres, harps, and choral voices usher the Stour on its willowy way, past the whispering backs of houses, their secret gardens. There are minstrels too, and dancing girls like a rush of bluebells. Where once carts rumbled over cobble stones, bicycle wheels turn, and cars roll; children gather at the bus station while the city sings in stone and glass, in cafés and theatres, on grass; sings with the guy on his guitar, dog by his side, hat at his feet the child skipping, the baby giggling – her small fist reaching upwards to grasp this precious air, this moment in time, Canterbury.

N.B. All poems shown are subject to copyright

poetry prose & illustration

Island City at Dusk

This island city settles into dusk golden lanterns alight seaside walkways coloured fairy lights twinkle above pretty gardens fine rain persists, damp salty mist pervades.

Haiku for April

April sun diffused through clouds, softens the shoulders and necks of Winter

–Danny Rivers

The Fields Of The Cloth Of Gold

The fields of the cloth of gold Turn the world upside down and the fields become the green sky populated by random shifting sheep. On the horizon trees grow down into blue fields streaked with light, woolly clouds graze, touched by golden light.

–Charlie Bell c.bell1574@gmail.com

Easter Egg

You’d assessed it, weighed it up: 18 carat gold –melted down, you’d cover costs, make a tidy profit, then despair sets in: you can’t sell it on – no one wants it, you’ve overestimated the value of the gold. You shove it to one side with other unsold bits and pieces hanging around from garage sales, bric-a-brac fairs.

The waves ebb and flow onto the pebbled shore.

The fisherman’s harbour is quiet now haunted with hard graft and companionship Spinnaker Tower gleams like a witch’s eye over cobbled streets smoothed by history.

The waves ebb and flow onto the pebbled shore.

Portsmouth Cathedral, sacred, solid, serene sits squarely with grace and fortitude at the very heart of the Old City opposite pubs and taverns, centuries old.

The waves ebb and flow onto the pebbled shore.

Windows glow with a warm welcome doors open to a roar of boozy chatter walls thick with stories, floors worn with memories hopes and dreams are carved into those old beams.

The waves ebb and flow onto the pebbled shore.

–Tina MacNaughton

‘Island City at Dusk’ is also published online in Portsmouth’s ‘Star and Crescent’ online newspaper

Anemones

Years later, you look more closely at this object no bigger than a golf ball, notice how what appears to be a crystal catches the light, fragments into sparkling blue and yellow shards, how the top unhinges, to reveal the tiniest of watches, hands glittering with embedded jewels as they move around the white enamel dial, start to wonder if it is worth more than its weight in gold.

You type ‘egg’ and the watchmaker’s name into Google, gasp when you read about a missing Easter egg crafted for an Empress –its picture identical to the one now sitting on your workshop shelf, beside your morning muffin, your Starbucks coffee.

–Margaret Beston

Scrap metal find turns out to be $33 million Faberge golden egg

–CNN Mon June 29 2015

poetry

In the noontide springtime rain, Anemones bow their headsSerene sisters

In white linen

Sunk in contemplation.

Leaves sparkle

The rain sulks

The supplicants look up

Face the sky

Once again

Open-hearted whitecaps on an olive ocean.

–Danny Rivers

N.B. All poems shown are subject to copyright

Pick four big apples from Grandad’s old Bramley, the one leaning against the shed. You remember, he used to sit there smoking his pipe, thinning the seedlings dahlias, chrysants, lettuce and peas.

Peel the apples. Look how long the peel is. We used to compete, see who had the longest peel. Grandma always won. Slice them, put them in water, add lemon so they don’t go brown.

Rub the flour, butter and eggs together. Use Grandma’s yellow stoneware bowl, the one she used to make the wedding cake so carefully with rationing so difficult, adding carrots for sweetness.

Spread the pastry on the old wooden board your father brought back from the war, a gift from a grateful mother, reunited with her missing children, her man still missing, presumed dead.

Roll it flat with the glass rolling pin Auntie Grace gave me after our wedding, the latest pyrex, a strange gift, so modern when she lived so much in the past, mourning her fiancé's death.

Lay the pastry in the old baking dish Dad’s mother gave us. Apples and pears so brightly painted. Press the sides, the bottom, make sure there’s no air. Lay the apples on the pastry.

Now put on the lid. Make a small hole to avoid an explosion in the oven. Not like your father who thought he knew how to cook everything after camping with the scouts.

Crimp the pastry edges together. Use your fingertips. Yes it is like a pinch, but this time it’s OK. No, you can’t pinch your sister. This is cooking, it’s different.

Brush some beaten egg over the top. Put the pie dish in the oven and wait. Lay the table; best china today. I don’t have a recipe. My Mum taught me, like I’m teaching you.

–Rennie Halstead

Making Fudge with Aunt Ada

You were the same age then as I am now, when we made vanilla fudge in the Formica kitchen, watched by your budgie, laughing as the bird spoke exactly in your voice.

We, or really you, weighed butter and brown sugar, opened a red and white Carnation tin with the pointed blade that gave the lid a dangerous edge. We, or really you, chopped the butter into neat squares, tipped it all into the heavy saucepan to slowly, too slowly! melt.

We stirred until the mixture slid off the spoon into ripples. Dropped in water it formed a blob. At last you said It’s ready to pour!

Later, after cleaning up and wiping down, cups of milky coffee, biscuits dunked, bird fed with a millet string, you lifted a silver knife, cut the fudge into tidy blocks.

I remember the softness of warm cubes in my fingers, still taste the sweetness on my tongue.

–Sara Davis

Making Fudge with Aunt Ada published in Dreich Overflow 2021

Mrs Peters

–by Tina MacNaughton

All is quiet in the city street. Just an ordinary street really. Smallish houses, each with a tiny patch at the front. A little scrap of land to call your own. Some use it to store bikes, others just leave the bins there to save dragging them out from the back alley every week. Most have paved over the front for ease, convenience and less fuss. And then there’s No. 44. No. 44 is different, stands out from the ordinary others. Roses and jasmine trail the faded, chipped sandy brick walls. Their heady scent fills the air and makes the postie breathe in with pleasure and close his eyes just for a moment. Baskets of pink and purple petunias sway gently in the warm summer breeze. Tubs of red and white geraniums colour pop the grey pavement. Clumps of rosemary grow as fast as witches’ hair and frame the bright blue front door with tiny purple flowers scented with remembrance and promise.

Plump hydrangeas swell like big pastel balloons, pink, white and blue. Contented bees hover and hum over fragrant lavender whilst pretty cabbage whites and the odd tortoiseshell petal dance in the early morning sunshine. No. 44, a little patch of magic on a city street. Mrs Peters waters it daily with collected rainwater and a smile. Her cat sleeps peacefully in a slice of golden sunlight as she sweeps the front purposefully with her birch broom.

The extended narrative of Mrs Peters was originally published byPortsmouth’s Pens of the Earth in their Wild Seas, Wilder Cities 2023 anthology.

Sleight Of Handbag

–by Annette Keen

It was exactly the right kind of handbag, squashy and roomy, with sensible clasps that were easy to click open and closed, and no tricky zips. Perfect, for what Beth wanted. Marks and Spencer were offering it in three colours and she bought it in the most boring one, a nondescript dove grey that would go with anything. Only now was she regretting her choice. Beth had put her bag down on the floor for just a few seconds while she dried her hands in the ladies' room, and obviously another M&S devotee had used the dryer next to hers. There had been rather a crush at that moment and she hadn't really been aware of the woman next to her. A rushing image of green silk flew past her mind's eye, that was all.

Beth stared into the cavernous interior of the bag she'd just picked up and realised she would have to do something pretty quickly before Act II started. She sighed. What a shame. A West End charity performance of a new musical was just the sort of evening

she enjoyed, a chance to get dressed up and move amongst the rich, and sometimes famous too. Very worthwhile events, she had always found in the past.

The bag held no clues to the owner's identity. It contained two tissues (one used), car keys, mobile phone and cash in one half. In the other section lay three gentlemen's wallets, a gold money clip with several notes attached, a diamond stick pin, and a Gucci ladies' watch which didn't look like a copy. Whoever owned this M&S bag had known what they were going for.

There was nothing else for it, she would have to find the woman who was now carrying her bag, without alerting her to the discovery. The last thing she wanted was to raise the alarm and frighten her into making a run for it, leaving Beth with no cash or keys and no phone to summon help. And then there would be all the performance of police statements... no, better by far to deal with this in her own way.

Back in the foyer and bar areas, Beth moved through the crush of people as rapidly as she could, resisting the urge to to get side-tracked, casting her eyes around in all directions and homing in on every patch of green she spotted.

The interval bell rang, and just as the throng at the bar thinned out a little she found exactly what she'd been looking for. Coming towards her, squeezing past people's backs and slipping between slower moving groups, came an elegant girl in green silk with Beth's handbag clutched beneath her left arm.

“My bag, I believe,” said Beth, with one hand on the strap, adding, “This, I think, is yours. You'd better check that the contents are all there.”

The girl looked around and satisfied herself that Beth was alone. She relinquished her hold on Beth's bag, and took her own, immediately looking inside it.

“What a coincidence. Still, that's Marks and Sparks for you,” she said, coolly. “Will you be staying for the rest of the performance?”

Beth peered quickly inside her own bag. “I think not.”

“No, me neither.”

They walked away hurriedly in opposite directions, Beth heading for the nearest exit and then following her usual practice of taking a taxi back to where she'd parked her car. It was only once she was safely installed in the back of a black cab that she did a thorough inventory of the contents of her handbag.

Car and house keys, purse, tissues, phone and lipstick all in one compartment, exactly as she'd left them. In the other section, pearl and opal platinum bracelet, gentlemen's Cartier watch, two wallets (full) and – quite unexpectedly – a three-colour gold necklace. She pulled it out and had a closer look. That girl has a good eye, she thought.

Beth settled back and reflected on another profitable evening out. Such beneficial events, these charity dos. She did so like to see the wealthy giving freely. And she snapped the clasp on the perfect handbag firmly closed.

flash

Success at Last

–by Garf Collins

Written during Donald Trump's first presidency, on the occasion of his royal visit. It is a work of pure fiction

“I don’t know why, but there’s something about being hauled to a police station that makes you feel a bit silly,” said Ralph rather dejectedly as he dumped his Nikon D750 camera on my kitchen table.

Ralph is a friend from my schooldays. Although only an average pupil, he was always coming in with tales of extracurricular achievements. Mountains climbed, games won, and later romantic conquests. Since we left he has adopted many guises, each of which has ended at my kitchen table. A substantial legacy from an uncle is almost gone. He had aspired to become a bestselling author, but My Remarkable Life sold only twenty-one copies. Then he purchased a garret, where he spent a furious year painting huge canvases. An exhibition in a fashionable gallery was well attended because of the lavish entertainment, but not a single painting was sold. The last I heard, he had become an entrepreneur. He set up a website for an online folk art shop, which he was convinced would go viral, but the world refused to beat a path to his door.

Fearing he might have added to this sorry history, I asked, “What on earth brought you to the attention of the law, and why the camera?”

“I’m a professional photographer, or at least I was,” he replied. “I hadn’t had any success, so when I heard that Donald Trump was going to be travelling down The Mall in the Queen’s coach, I thought that there was the chance to take the shot which would be reproduced around the world. There were lots of protestors and a heavy police presence but I managed to get through somehow. As the coach passed, I rushed forward, but I was knocked to the ground by a very large policeman and taken to a police van.”

“What happened when you got to the station?”

“Well, a lot of questions about my life and politics. I was searched thoroughly. They examined the camera to see if it was a weapon in disguise, and then threw me out with a caution. Anyway, that’s it. I’ve finished with photography. You keep the camera. I’ve decided I am more cut out to be a maker of fine furniture. I am going to rent a workshop and set up a website.”

That is how quickly Ralph bounces back. He has only ever needed half an hour with me to bury his ventures before, phoenix-like, he is off on another.

After he left, I picked up the camera and flicked idly through his pictures. He clearly had a lot to learn. Then I switched to the single video. He had obviously pressed the wrong button as he leapt forward, that day on The Mall. There was a whirl of out-of-focus action, but it ended with a perfectly framed shot which must have been taken from ground level. Ralph had made his mark at last. Donald Trump could clearly be seen through the front screen of the carriage as the rear horse was gracefully defecating.

Ebb & Flow

Ropetackle writers launch first anthology for charity

An exciting new anthology 'Ebb & Flow' has been published, showcasing short, original works by Ropetackle Arts Centre’s creative writing group, and is now on sale at the Centre in Shoreham.

The brainchild of Creative Writing facilitator Jill Hucklesby and Ropetackle’s marketing manager, Nicky Thornton, the 36-page A5 book features favourite pieces chosen by the writers from their growing body of work. It includes prose, poems and some lovely illustrations, all done by members of the group.

Launched in September 2023, the writing group has explored subjects from gardens to time-travel, animals to oceans. The monthly themed sessions have also marked special anniversaries for Jane Austen and the Great Gatsby; delved into the genres of horror and crime – with bloodthirsty results; and worked with a Shakespeare actor, lighting up love in all its guises.

“We hope the selected mix of prose and poetry will bring a little magic to readers and help to champion the development of talented new voices in our region,” says Jill.

The book is on sale for £8, and all proceeds will go to Ropetackle, to help continue its vital work as a leading arts charity and venue in the South East. Bennetts Car Parts have sponsored the printing.

https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/whats-on/

creative courses & workshops

Roz Nathan

Natural History Artwork / Art Classes / Demos

Roz’s art practice has a natural history focus, she participates regularly in local artists’ open houses events, charity exhibitions, and exhibits nationally when time allows, including with the Society of Wildlife Artists at the Mall Galleries.

This Spring Roz continues her creative, enjoyable studio courses at Polegate Community Centre, offering Mixed Media, Collage & Print on Mondays, and Personal Projects on Tuesdays.

At Langney in St Barnabas’ Church Hall, Roz runs twice a month Watercolour & Mixed Media courses and a new weekly Wildlife Art.

Roz’s popular East Dean Summer School programme comprises two weeks of one-day creative and fun workshops in a variety of topics such as Abstracting the Landscape, Wire Wildlife Sculpture, and many others…

Online, live Zoom courses – currently Mixed Media Landscape and soon a new Creative Portrait Drawing course – host small friendly groups, with demos and supportive individual and group feedback, all sessions are recorded. Monthly online demos are planned from May / June.

Roz works often with East Sussex art groups and societies, delivering demos, workshops and regular teaching. Individual or small group lessons, mentoring or support sessions are available too – online or in person.

Please email to enquire, more information at roz.nathan@hotmail.com or www.roznathanart.com or follow on social media

LCA Stage Academy’s Musical Theatre Summer Workshop 2026!

Where: Oxted School, Eden Hall

When: Monday 27th July to Friday 31st July 2026

Times: 10am-4pm each day (early drop off time available. Please enquire regarding fee)

Performance on the Friday!

Cost: £145pp

Suitable for 6yrs to 18yrs (split into age groups)

Performers who join us for our five-day summer workshop are wrapped up in a wonderful world of all things musical theatre, learning songs, scenes and

dances from different musicals, ending the week with a demonstration performance for friends and family on the final day.

The workshop is suitable for ages 6 to 18 (split into age groups) and is a perfect way to spend a week of the summer holidays! Performers will learn new techniques, build confidence, meet like-minded people, and work as part of a team in a fun, creative, safe and professional environment. Please note places are limited.

For all information please visit www.lca-stage.com

We cannot speak highly enough about our son’s experience at LCA. Louise and her team not only teach the students so much, they make all activities a pleasure for those involved. They are also a shining example of inclusivity. I often recommend LCA to other parents and am amazed at how skills learnt there have increased our son’s confidence.

LCA is not only an amazing and professional singing, acting and dancing academy, Lou and her team create a family environment for all their young performers. They believe in every single child and deliver amazing performances that the children are so delighted to be part of. Our daughter has been at LCA for over three years and of her many activities it is her favourite by a long way! It has opened so many opportunities for her, we can’t thank LCA enough. Highly recommend!

creative courses & workshops

Catriona Millar’s

Art Class

Catriona Millar’s art class ran in Eastbourne at the St John’s Parish Hall in Upper Meads for eight years prior to lockdown. By March 2020 there were forty-four students spread across two weekly classes. It was a bustling hive of creative activity that gave birth to a separate exhibiting art group.

“We used to look at the class and wonder how it turned into this amazing thing that had a life of its own,” says Catriona, “it was like giving birth to something fantastic and beautiful but by accident, somehow it didn’t seem to belong to us.”

And then of course it didn’t. Lockdown snuffed the class out in an instant. Now the class is back in the newly refurbished and renamed Meads Village Hall. A generous government grant and community donation meant that £550,000 has been spent upgrading the hall.

“It’s probably one of the best art spaces I’ve ever worked in, even the kitchen is state of the art and we have our bespoke built storage space for all our easels and materials.”

As one of the UK’s leading figurative artists it is unusual for a painter of Catriona’s reputation and schedule to find the time or the energy to run a regular art class but she says it’s worth every minute.

“Making art is normally a solo act,” says Catriona, “socialising rarely comes into it but the art class changes that for everyone who attends. It’s a meeting of creative minds all focussed on a path of discovery,” Catriona pauses for a moment then adds, “and of

course there’s free tea, coffee and biscuits.”

Catriona laughs, but the fact is her class is one of the few in Sussex where you can learn the traditional techniques of painting. You can also learn to draw and paint in all media every Tuesday 11am to 1pm.

For more information please contact Catriona on catrionamillarpainter@ gmail.com or 07758 367479. Catrionamillar.com

left: Catriona Millar working on her latest painting

Unfurling the Creative 16th April to 21st May

Louise Durham, internationally recognised glass artist invites you on a journey of self discovery developing a visual diary using playful mixed media practices.

After years of people asking whether I offer classes, I’m excited to share that I will be facilitating a new creative journey! Unfurling the Creative is a six-week course designed for anyone who feels their creative spark has dimmed and wants to reignite it.

Based on my experience as an occupational therapist and my many years as a glass artist, this course is built on a deep unshakable belief in the restorative and healing power of creative practice.

Each Thursday evening we’ll explore simple, accessible creative exercises designed to spark playfulness, curiosity, and joy. You'll leave each evening with pages added to your visual diary, a growing record of colour, texture, and feeling. And over six weeks, something else tends to happen too. Something a little harder to put into words. You just feel more like yourself.

West Street Studios Shoreham BN43 5WG. Find out more at www.louisevdurham.com

Art Junction

Searching for something different to do this summer that will ring the changes? Look no further than this magazine. ingénu/e is full of tantalising opportunities for participation in all aspects of the arts across Sussex and will provide you with more possibilities than you can imagine.

Whether it’s to enjoy some great music or to roll up your sleeves for a favourite art course, you can find it here. Art Junction is very proud to be among many excellent venues that are regularly featured in this publication.

This summer for us is no exception. We have a great range of options to offer in July and early August with our summer intensive courses. New on the list is sculptor Jon Edgars' ‘Working from Animals' that he will be giving in a two-day workshop on how to prepare reference material for sculpting animals, starting with a very friendly and gentle Great Dane called Millie who will serve as the model. Students can then go on to produce a finished sculpture at the studio if they wish. We are also looking forward to the return of artist and sculptor Michael Joseph with two short experimental workshops this year, the first ‘Abstracting the Figure’ in August and in the autumn, ‘Making a Self Portrait’. Both will take you on a journey from figurative to abstractions.

And finally our regular favourites, looking at sculpting the human form both in Portraiture and Figurative Modelling in Clay from life models, with sculptors Hazel Reeves and Mark Longworth. These courses are definitely not to be missed for those interested in figurative sculpture.

Why not join us? All levels of experience are welcome. Find out more at www.artjunction.uk or contact info@artjunction.uk.

from top: Marji Talbot, labrador sculpture; portrait head in progress; Millie; figurative modelling in clay

Musical theatre Summer workshops 2026

10-4PM EACH DAY

6YRS - 18YRS | COST: £145PP

OXTED SCHOOL, EDEN HALL

MONDAY 27TH-FRIDAY 31ST JULY

ART TUITION with artist Gill Bustamante watercolour • drawing • oil painting

Mondays & Thursdays at The Old Court House, East Court, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH193LT

Tea, coffee and silly banter included Details & times at www.gillbustamante.com

Coda

Bob who?

I was attending a webinar the other night and the subject of song lyrics came up. I mentioned Bob Dylan as probably having made a major cultural effect during the sixties and seventies with his songs. Then one of the people attending asked “Bob who?” “Bob Dylan" I replied, "you know, Blowing in the Wind, Masters of War, The Times They Are A-Changin etc.” “Never heard of him” she said. I was incredulous. “You’ve never heard of Bob Dylan?” I ventured.

I was then admonished by another participant for two reasons. Once for sounding critical of her and once for being “too old.” After a moments cogitation I realised I was dealing with a Gen Z personality who, and not to be too critical, was relatively uncultured and easily offended.

I dug a further hole for myself by then referring to

the Paul Simon song ‘A Simple Desultory Philippic’ from Simon and Garfunkel’s ‘Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thyme’ 1966 album. It’s a fun parody of Bob Dylan with a dash of cultural satire, containing the line ‘He’s not the same as you and me, he doesn’t dig poetry / He’s so unhip, when you say Dylan / He

thinks you’re talking about Dylan Thomas, whoever he was. The man ain’t got no culture.’

I thought mentioning it would get a laugh or two but all I got was to be asked “Who is Dylan Thomas?” I gave up at that point!

I was disappointed, as all this came on top of me catching up somewhat with modern pop culture and becoming a Swiftie!! Yes I’ve fallen under the spell of American songstress Taylor Swift. I heard the song ‘The Fate of Ophelia’ from her latest album ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ and quite liked it and was curious to see if she really knew who she was referring to. It’s a trifle high art for Taylor and her fans I thought, Ophelia being the tragic character in Shakespeare's Hamlet who descends into madness and drowns after her lover, Hamlet, kills her father, Polonius; she is immortalised in the mid-19th century painting by the Pre-Raphaelite artist John Everett Millais. But the lyrics of the song reveal Taylor was not only familiar

with the story, but cleverly using it as a metaphor for her rescue from melancholia by her current lover.

I decided to wander cautiously down the Taylor Swift rabbit hole during which I was led to her previous album ‘The Tortured Poets Department’. And what do you know, the title track includes a reference to the internationally-renowned Swansea poet Dylan Thomas. For example, one line is ‘I laughed in your face and said: "You’re not Dylan Thomas. I’m not Patti Smith. This ain’t the Chelsea Hotel. We’re modern idiots".’

This gave me great delight as she seems to have a handle on how pop culture has become more shallow over the years and, for those in the know, there is also a not so hidden reference to Leonard Cohen contained therein.

That was enough, I’m converted! I am now fully paid-up a Swiftie!

The loss of another icon

Joseph Allen McDonald, otherwise known as the leader of the 1960s psychedelic band Country Joe

and the Fish, passed on in early March.

Why is he an icon? Well, he released over thirty albums, wrote hundreds of songs, performed twice at the famous Woodstock festival in 1969, once with his band and once solo, and for all his life was an avid anti-war and free speech activist.

But to me he stands out in my memory for his impromptu rendition, in front of around 500,000 people with just a borrowed acoustic guitar in his hand, of the famous ‘I Feel Like I’m Fixing to Die Rag’ at Woodstock.

It’s the archetypal protest song with a catchy tune and black comedic lyrics that ridiculed the Vietnam War (or any war really). The vast audience rose to their feet, singing along in solidarity with the message. It was one of the most quintessential moments of the counter-culture movement of the late 1960s and as relevant today as it was then.

Search on YouTube for Country Joe Vietnam song, Woodstock or visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRl6bHlz-4&list=RDeRl6-bHlz-4&start_radio=1

Speakers in jelly

I’m not truly a fan of Contemporary Art or Installation Art. Some I love, some I admire technically, but alas, some come with the feeling there is an elephant in the room, an atmosphere that in part requires that one’s thoughts and considerations must not be voiced or shared.

A case in point is when Gill and I were invited to a fairly prestigious university’s exhibition of their art students' final year show. We were personally familiar with one of the students and were excited to see her work. Shortly after we arrived she led us enthusiastically to her installation. We couldn’t quite make out what it was exactly and asked her to explain it for us. She went into a very complicated and difficult to follow explanation

of the work and, perhaps because we looked a little confused, said she would show us how it worked.

She went behind the installation and flicked a switch. Very muffled music started up and looking more closely at the work we could see that the speakers were encased in jelly. The jelly wobbled in an array of shapes as the music, which was barely discernible, fought to escape its confines.

And that was it. I can’t recall the name of the piece and I cannot recall the complicated explanation of what it was all about. But since then, whenever Gill and I have encountered any sort of modern art or installation that seems strange, bewildering, mystifying or bizarre, we would catch each other's eye and mouth the phrase “speakers in jelly”.

Of course these types of creations raise the question – is it art? I have my own opinions, but they are just that, opinions. Who knows? But very recently I came across this poem by Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936) and by applying a little concentration and thorough study, I felt perhaps I glimpsed an answer through the beautiful mist of his allegories. See what you think, it’s worth a read.

The Conundrum of the Workshops

by Rudyard Kipling

When the flush of a newborn sun fell first on Eden's green and gold, Our father Adam sat under the Tree and scratched with a stick in the mold; And the first rude sketch that the world had seen was joy to his mighty heart, Till the Devil whispered behind the leaves: "It's pretty, but is it Art?"

Wherefore he called to his wife and fled to fashion his work anew—

The first of his race who cared a fig for the first, most dread review; And he left his lore to the use of his sons—and that was a glorious gain When the Devil chuckled: "Is it Art?" in the ear of the branded Cain.

They builded a tower to shiver the sky and wrench the stars apart, Till the Devil grunted behind the bricks: "It's striking, but is it Art?" The stone was dropped by the quarry-side, and the idle derrick swung, While each man talked of the aims of art, and each in an alien tongue.

They fought and they talked in the north and the south, they talked and they fought in the west, Till the waters rose on the jabbering land, and the poor Red Clay had rest— Had rest till the dank blank-canvas dawn when the dove was preened to start, And the Devil bubbled below the keel: "It's human, but is it Art?"

The tale is old as the Eden Tree—as new as the new-cut tooth— For each man knows ere his lip-thatch grows he is master of Art and Truth; And each man hears as the twilight nears, to the beat of his dying heart, The Devil drum on the darkened pane: "You did it, but was it Art?"

We have learned to whittle the Eden Tree to the shape of a surplice-peg, We have learned to bottle our parents twain in the yolk of an addled egg, We know that the tail must wag the dog, as the horse is drawn by the cart; But the Devil whoops, as he whooped of old: "It's clever, but is it Art?"

When the flicker of London's sun falls faint on the club-room's green and gold, The sons of Adam sit them down and scratch with their pens in the mold— They scratch with their pens in the mold of their graves, and the ink and the anguish start

When the Devil mutters behind the leaves: "It's pretty, but is it art?"

Now, if we could win to the Eden Tree where the four great rivers flow, And the wreath of Eve is red on the turf as she left it long ago, And if we could come when the sentry slept, and softly scurry through, By the favour of God we might know as much—as our father Adam knew.

'Batemans', Rudyard Kipling's family home in the Sussex countryside. Built in 1634, this beautiful Jacobean house is open for visits in spring