Work has been busy, busy, busy. Just finished December's issue, which involved a trip to East Sussex to meet some very interesting people and we are now on January so I have no idea what month it is.
All the digital editions of the magazine are online uder the emags tab and by clicking the archive tab on the side you can look back over the last few months - www.etcmag.net
But on the website here are some article I have written which you might be interested in:
Carving Magic - http://etcmag.net/carving-magic/ This was a lot of fun and amazing what they can make from a carrot.
Winter sun Jamaica - http://etcmag.net/island-paradise/
Tamsin Egerton interview - http://etcmag.net/tamsin-egerton/
Garden designer Amanda Patton - http://etcmag.net/garden-paradise/
Delicious Chocolate by Miss Witt - http://etcmag.net/chocolate-by-miss-witt/
Old one from August - Martha Mitchell Designs from Brighton - http://etcmag.net/a-fine-line/
Plus lots more to read if you have a look around.
Wednesday, 13 November 2013
Sunday, 10 November 2013
The Great South Run 2013, October, Portsmouth and Southsea
At the end of October I completed the Great South Run again.
Having caught the running bug nearly two years ago I felt an enormous sense of achievement crossing that finish line as I ran the complete 10 miles on my own, with great support from the crowd.
For anyone unaware the Great South Run is the premiere 10 mile event in the UK and attracts thousands and thousands of runners each year (25,000 this time).
There is a great buzz and you run through the streets of Portsmouth and Southsea through the dockyard, past the Spinnaker, and along the seafront.
All the way through I felt fine a lot more confident than last year and paced myself to make sure I didn't burn out quickly. However, it would seem the weather had another plan for the runners, the evening of the run a massive storm was predicted. It didn't hit when we were running however coming through Eastney was fine but turning right onto the seafront it felt as if someone hit you and running along was a constant struggle and felt as if someone constantly had their hands on your shoulders pushing you back.
It was brutal and by far the hardest two miles I have ever run, there was a point that I was concerned that I would not be able to finish, I kept running whereas others walked. The only thought going through my head was if I walk I won't be able to run and with the need to beat my time again kept pushing through.
Last year I completed the Great South Run in 2 hours 9 minutes, this year...1 hour 58 minutes. To say I am over the moon is an understatement I was overwhelmed and so proud that I had done it. I also raised £260 for Mind which was phenomenal.
I did say I wasn't going to do it again next year, £41 is quite a lot, so I am looking at getting a charity spot again. My thinking well first it is the 25th anniversary and second if it's not windy how fast could I run it?
In other running news not long to go until the Brighton Half Marathon in February, little nervous 13 miles so this week going to up my training to nail it! Just hope my couple of weeks off doesn't impact on it all.
After the Great South Run
My treat after the race
Blue, Hammersmith Apollo, London - 22nd October 2013
It has been a while, work has been a little hectic so not had much time to sit and stop with the want to write after doing so all day at work.
However, a quiet weekend means I can write some reviews and updates for the things I have been up to recently.
If you have read my blog or gig reviews on here before then you will know I am a child of the 90s and love my pop music, the cheesier the better, well in my childhood not so much now.
Since becoming an adult I have had the opportunity to see the bands I was unable to when I was a kid e.g. Spice Girls, The Big Reunion (http://onegirlsworld-charlotte.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/the-big-reunion-hammersmith-apollo.html) and Steps (http://onegirlsworld-charlotte.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/steps-o2-london-19th-april-2012.html)
My sister was a huge Blue fan back in the day and my mum bought us tickets but when we went to go the band split causing my sister a lot of heartache.
When they reformed, properly, and announced a tour for their new album Roulette my mum bought us a couple of tickets and off we went to the Hammersmith to see the band my sister was obsessed with.
To be honest it took a while for them to come on the stage, about quarter past nine which was ok but not ideal we were lucky as we drove so knew we wouldn't have to leave early to get a train home.
Apart from that the gig was a lot better than I was expecting. They sang live and were brilliant, great voices especially Lee Ryan who can hold a note and can certainly belt them out.
They also danced pulling out the moves from the old days as well as some new ones for songs from the new album, which was also another surprise.
After the awful Eurovision song I wasn't expecting the new songs to be good and had a real essence of the way they were in their heyday.
Great songs from the new album include Hurt Lovers and Ayo, and of course they also played crowd favorites One Love, Signed Sealed Delivered I'm Yours and Fly By and by the response in the room there was some die hard fans who also seemed to be loving the new album.
This gig was amazing and showed the boys do have stayed power, maybe the break was worth it as their voices and dance moves were top notch and I would definitely see them again.
Saturday, 9 November 2013
Ghost The Musical, The Mayflower, November 2013
The Mayflower in Southampton has really upped its game in recent years getting big West End shows pretty much as soon as they finish. In the past they have had Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Legally Blonde and next year will play host to Dirty Dancing and the phenomenal Wicked.
I prefer The Mayflower, only a 40 minute drive, compared to the long journey to London it is great to show these shows come locally.
As a massive fan of the film Ghost I was thrilled when I heard it was coming to the Mayflower as I was gutted to have missed it in London.
On the website Ghost is described as - a timeless fantasy about the power of love. Walking back to their apartment one night, Sam and Molly are mugged, leaving Sam murdered on a dark street. Sam is trapped as a ghost between this world and the next and unable to leave Molly who he learns is in grave danger. With the help of a phony storefront psychic, Oda Mae Brown, Sam tries to communicate with Molly in the hope of saving and protecting her.
The 1990 film starred Demi Moore as Molly, Patrick Swayze as Sam and Whoopi Goldberg as Oda Mae. It pulls at the heartstrings and every time I watch the film I cry so I was pretty sure the musical would do the same.
With films into musicals I am always a little dubious as to how they will come off Legally Blonde worked amazingly well, and when I found out that Dave Stewart from the Eurythmics I had high hopes.
The only song really I knew would be there was Unchained Melody, the stand out song of the film.
So the musical...beautifully set and just a fantastic production, the transitions from person to ghost with the body still on stage was seamless and I still don't understand how they did it. It was a very clever production and the stage was amazing with the beginning whizzing you through the streets of New York.
The musical captures the magic of the film perfectly and the songs fit perfectly in this new mould.
It is always going to be hard to match the actors who were in the film but each actor played their part well and made it their own, the fact that Molly has blonde curly hair rather than a short brown crop instantly distinguishes the two actresses and you almost forget that someone else every played the role.
The stand out character and actress for me though was Wendy Mae Brown who plays Oda Mae Brown. In quite a heavy story line she adds welcomed light relief and has an amazing voice to carry the songs home.
When we went to watch another actress was playing the role of Molly - Amy Webb, who was excellent, it makes you wonder why she wasn't given the part in the first place.
Finally Sam was played by Stewart Clarke and although no legendary Swayze he really made you connect with Sam and feel his pain at dying way before his time.
This musical is just brilliant and really adds another dimension to an already popular and fantastic film. I really think if you love the film you will be hard pushed to hate this musical.
And before you ask yes I did cry at the end...
To find out more visit - http://www.ghostthemusical.com/
I prefer The Mayflower, only a 40 minute drive, compared to the long journey to London it is great to show these shows come locally.
As a massive fan of the film Ghost I was thrilled when I heard it was coming to the Mayflower as I was gutted to have missed it in London.
On the website Ghost is described as - a timeless fantasy about the power of love. Walking back to their apartment one night, Sam and Molly are mugged, leaving Sam murdered on a dark street. Sam is trapped as a ghost between this world and the next and unable to leave Molly who he learns is in grave danger. With the help of a phony storefront psychic, Oda Mae Brown, Sam tries to communicate with Molly in the hope of saving and protecting her.
The 1990 film starred Demi Moore as Molly, Patrick Swayze as Sam and Whoopi Goldberg as Oda Mae. It pulls at the heartstrings and every time I watch the film I cry so I was pretty sure the musical would do the same.
With films into musicals I am always a little dubious as to how they will come off Legally Blonde worked amazingly well, and when I found out that Dave Stewart from the Eurythmics I had high hopes.
The only song really I knew would be there was Unchained Melody, the stand out song of the film.
So the musical...beautifully set and just a fantastic production, the transitions from person to ghost with the body still on stage was seamless and I still don't understand how they did it. It was a very clever production and the stage was amazing with the beginning whizzing you through the streets of New York.
The musical captures the magic of the film perfectly and the songs fit perfectly in this new mould.
It is always going to be hard to match the actors who were in the film but each actor played their part well and made it their own, the fact that Molly has blonde curly hair rather than a short brown crop instantly distinguishes the two actresses and you almost forget that someone else every played the role.
The stand out character and actress for me though was Wendy Mae Brown who plays Oda Mae Brown. In quite a heavy story line she adds welcomed light relief and has an amazing voice to carry the songs home.
When we went to watch another actress was playing the role of Molly - Amy Webb, who was excellent, it makes you wonder why she wasn't given the part in the first place.
Finally Sam was played by Stewart Clarke and although no legendary Swayze he really made you connect with Sam and feel his pain at dying way before his time.
This musical is just brilliant and really adds another dimension to an already popular and fantastic film. I really think if you love the film you will be hard pushed to hate this musical.
And before you ask yes I did cry at the end...
To find out more visit - http://www.ghostthemusical.com/
Monday, 30 September 2013
Liam Fray acoustic tour, Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth, Wednesday, September 25, 2013
I have seen Manchester band The Courteeners about four or five times at last count since about 2007 when they first came to Portsmouth and Southampton. With these gigs you know what you are going to get, loud and fast guitar heavy songs belted out across the room with the crowd loving every minute.
To say the crowd at a Courteeners gig is full of energy is probably an understatement, they sing, they dance, they shout and chant - mainly 'Li-am, Li-am, Li-am'.
So when I bought me and my boyfriend tickets to see lead singer Liam Fray's acoustic gig I was a little intrigued as to what he was going to play and what it would be like.
Lets just say I was not disappointed, and the crowd still managed to get a chant in.
Playing for about an hour and a half he treated us to a number of Courteeners hits Last of the ladies, Scratch you name upon my heart and Lose control. All of which just sounded perfect, just him, a guitar and a piano guy.
It is nice to hear songs like Acrylic slowed down and stripped back showcasing the word smith we all know Fray is.
Even though he said he had a sore throat the songs were delivered, to the sometimes silent room, with such quality and class.
The crowd were also a little different this time, less rowdy but still shouting out the song lyrics at the top of their voice, especially to favourites Bide your time and Please don't, so loud in fact that Liam stepped back to enjoy the moment and let the crowd sing out.
I can see why with this tour he has chosen to play smaller more intimate venues like the Wedgewood Rooms in Portsmouth as he can interact with the audience, so much so that someone in the front wanted to talk to him about Manchester to which he said 'You want a one to one conversation but no one else in the room cares'.
To be honest I think at this gig was the most I have ever heard Liam talk.
He also treated the room to a bit of a Fleet Foxes song which was amazing.
It was an phenomenal gig, laid back and chilled out but still with a slight rock and roll edge.
Even without the band as support Liam still brings it to the stage and I'll be buying my ticket next time he goes acoustic.
Sunday, 22 September 2013
September etc Magazine
Finally September and the new etc is out. We have just put October to press but I thought I would share what I have done this month.
Sussex - http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=cdbd86eb-0ed9-41e5-a590-031651c44a1c
Is a wedding and motor special.
I have a range of interviews but also one with Martha Mitchell a ceramic designer who makes amazing mugs with line drawings, I love the biscuit mug. - http://etcmag.net/a-fine-line/
Hampshire - http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=7ff12f34-a8e7-4615-959d-6cb2dfd41b85
I spoke to Nigel at Hang you Hat a hotel with a difference, I reviewed Becketts in Southsea, amazing food. Southsea Deckchairs also talk about the British classic and lots more. - http://etcmag.net/decked-out/
In Eastbourne - http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=3210216c-6838-4646-8efe-07a62e12c69f
Check out my interview with Pearl & Queenie in Hastings really beautiful jewelry - interview is also online - http://etcmag.net/pearly-queens/
So check them out and I can't wait for you to see October some great interviews coming up.
Sussex - http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=cdbd86eb-0ed9-41e5-a590-031651c44a1c
Is a wedding and motor special.
I have a range of interviews but also one with Martha Mitchell a ceramic designer who makes amazing mugs with line drawings, I love the biscuit mug. - http://etcmag.net/a-fine-line/
Hampshire - http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=7ff12f34-a8e7-4615-959d-6cb2dfd41b85
I spoke to Nigel at Hang you Hat a hotel with a difference, I reviewed Becketts in Southsea, amazing food. Southsea Deckchairs also talk about the British classic and lots more. - http://etcmag.net/decked-out/
In Eastbourne - http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=3210216c-6838-4646-8efe-07a62e12c69f
Check out my interview with Pearl & Queenie in Hastings really beautiful jewelry - interview is also online - http://etcmag.net/pearly-queens/
So check them out and I can't wait for you to see October some great interviews coming up.
Thursday, 19 September 2013
Meditation in a modern world
Most people on a Friday night are going out for meals or getting ready for a night of clubbing, the other week I went to a meditation class.
My boyfriend and I went along to a class in Chichester called 'putting problems into perspective'.
It was from 6.30pm until 8pm and I'm not going to lie I was very dubious and very nervous. I actually stressed myself out quite a lot just thinking about it, so I really needed it to work.
The talk was held by Gen Kelsang Lekma who explained first what the class was about and also the process. The class was actually quite full which surprised me.
When we started the first meditation block you get relaxed, sit straight hands together, thumbs lightly touching, close your eyes and Gen talks you through it. You breathe out any worries and stresses you have through black smoke and then you breathe in white light - everything positive.
I felt really good afterwards, it is a bit like when you have a massage or beauty treatment and are left in the room, being able to empty your mind and relax it just is a fantastic feeling.
We also did a second mediation but it didn't really work for me, it was about compassion and as good as it was, I came to realise that I am quite compassionate already and didn't really think it opened my mind.
I have always believed 'everything happens for a reason' as hard as it is at the time it will work out in the end, which helped me during meditation.
When I got home I felt lighter and my mind was so much clearer. I wasn't really a beliver before in mediation but after the other week I can see how once a week or every day it can help you.
We are going again so lets see how good it is second time around but to clear your mind and just de-stress I can't recommend it enough.
Here's the website http://www.thekchencentre.org/chichester
My boyfriend and I went along to a class in Chichester called 'putting problems into perspective'.
It was from 6.30pm until 8pm and I'm not going to lie I was very dubious and very nervous. I actually stressed myself out quite a lot just thinking about it, so I really needed it to work.
The talk was held by Gen Kelsang Lekma who explained first what the class was about and also the process. The class was actually quite full which surprised me.
When we started the first meditation block you get relaxed, sit straight hands together, thumbs lightly touching, close your eyes and Gen talks you through it. You breathe out any worries and stresses you have through black smoke and then you breathe in white light - everything positive.
I felt really good afterwards, it is a bit like when you have a massage or beauty treatment and are left in the room, being able to empty your mind and relax it just is a fantastic feeling.
We also did a second mediation but it didn't really work for me, it was about compassion and as good as it was, I came to realise that I am quite compassionate already and didn't really think it opened my mind.
I have always believed 'everything happens for a reason' as hard as it is at the time it will work out in the end, which helped me during meditation.
When I got home I felt lighter and my mind was so much clearer. I wasn't really a beliver before in mediation but after the other week I can see how once a week or every day it can help you.
We are going again so lets see how good it is second time around but to clear your mind and just de-stress I can't recommend it enough.
Here's the website http://www.thekchencentre.org/chichester
Tuesday, 17 September 2013
The 5:2 diet
I have never been one for diets. I hate the thought of not having things, as soon as I know I can't have something to eat my mind instantly starts thinking about it and I want it - no to chocolate, I want a chocolate bar.
Therefore my weight has fluctuated over the years. I lost a lot when I was about 18 but mainly through going out all the time, drinking and not really eating not great to be honest.
As well when you are in a relationship your weight does go a bit, feeling comfortable with your partner or eating the same portions as him again not ideal.
In the past year I have been running and lost quite a bit of chubbiness but feel as my body becomes more used to running my weight-loss has stopped but I still feel as if I have a stone or so to lose. I have started running three times a week, what with the Great South Run coming up, and I also do piloxing once a week, where you can burn up to 900 calories. But still I need an extra push.
So I stumbled across the 5:2 diet/lifestyle. A type of starvation however two days a week you only eat 500 calories, but the joy of this is that you eat whatever you want the rest of the week, want a chocolate bar? Go ahead. Glass of wine? Sure why not! It is two days of pain but the next day you can eat what you want.
Unless starvation your body doesn't store the fat in a panic but eats at it to break it down.
I have been doing it for about four weeks now, it isn't easy, I do feel hungry and it sometimes feels difficult getting out of a habit of eating three meals a day, or eating at designated time hungry or not.
It is getting easier but it is amazing how many calories things have in them. I tend to eat two meals a day deepening on my day on piloxing days I don't get back until 9 and don't fancy dinner so have breakfast and a big lunch, but most days I do breakfast and dinner and go for a walk at lunch.
You can have black tea or coffee, or herbal teas and water which don't count on your calorie intake.
But since coming back from Jamaica (6 weeks) I have lost 10 pounds, which probably isn't too surprising as I ate so much but I like to think that 5:2 is aiding this and really is isn't so bad.
I will keep you updated with my progress but top tip dried egg noodles from M&S only 80 calories!! Perfect.
Therefore my weight has fluctuated over the years. I lost a lot when I was about 18 but mainly through going out all the time, drinking and not really eating not great to be honest.
As well when you are in a relationship your weight does go a bit, feeling comfortable with your partner or eating the same portions as him again not ideal.
In the past year I have been running and lost quite a bit of chubbiness but feel as my body becomes more used to running my weight-loss has stopped but I still feel as if I have a stone or so to lose. I have started running three times a week, what with the Great South Run coming up, and I also do piloxing once a week, where you can burn up to 900 calories. But still I need an extra push.
So I stumbled across the 5:2 diet/lifestyle. A type of starvation however two days a week you only eat 500 calories, but the joy of this is that you eat whatever you want the rest of the week, want a chocolate bar? Go ahead. Glass of wine? Sure why not! It is two days of pain but the next day you can eat what you want.
Unless starvation your body doesn't store the fat in a panic but eats at it to break it down.
I have been doing it for about four weeks now, it isn't easy, I do feel hungry and it sometimes feels difficult getting out of a habit of eating three meals a day, or eating at designated time hungry or not.
It is getting easier but it is amazing how many calories things have in them. I tend to eat two meals a day deepening on my day on piloxing days I don't get back until 9 and don't fancy dinner so have breakfast and a big lunch, but most days I do breakfast and dinner and go for a walk at lunch.
You can have black tea or coffee, or herbal teas and water which don't count on your calorie intake.
But since coming back from Jamaica (6 weeks) I have lost 10 pounds, which probably isn't too surprising as I ate so much but I like to think that 5:2 is aiding this and really is isn't so bad.
I will keep you updated with my progress but top tip dried egg noodles from M&S only 80 calories!! Perfect.
Monday, 26 August 2013
Victorious Festival, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Sunday, August 25 2013
Over the Saturday and Sunday of the August bank holiday up to 50,000 people ventured to the Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth to indulge in food, drink and great music.
For £15 a ticket a day it was well worth the money and me and my boyfriend went to the Sunday where music acts included Charlotte Church, Maximo Park, Reef and The Cribs.
Included in the ticket price was a real ale festival, boutique market, kids area and you could also go to all the dockyard attractions. So we had a look around the HMS Warrior and the brand new Mary Rose museum which I personally thought was really good. I have never seen the Mary Rose and all the artifacts they found on the boat it was really interesting and amazing that it all lasted so long under the water.
There were a number of stages - acoustic, main stage, Little Johnny Russell's, real ale and bandstand.
We stayed mainly in the Little Johnny Russell's stage - where we saw The Joy Formidable, The Cribs and a DJ set by The Streets' Mike Skinner, which was excellent. We were a little disappointed though that we weren't treated to any 'Dry your eyes mate'.
There was so much on the day we got there at 11am and left about midnight.
The Cribs were very rocky and got the tent bouncing it is a shame though as quite a few people seemed to leave to watch Maximo Park who were on the main stage at the same time.
The Joy Formidable were excellent also. I had never seen them before but really want to see them again, they only played for half an hour but I'm sure if they go on tour again I will check them out.
We caught a bit of Katy B - who has an great singing voice, Bog Rolling Stones, Fenech-Soler and loads more.
The real ale was a hit but sold out quickly. The food was also fantastic we opted for Camp Cooks, who had drag queens serving and the food was delicious. My boyfriend tried the jambalaya with chicken and smoked sausage, it was a big portion and was very spicy. I had the Hill Billy burger with tomato, lettuce, homemade slaw and cheese a mammoth burger but really yummy.
Another fantastic thing there was the silent disco, a strange concept everyone wears headphones, and there are two DJs and you pick which channel you want to listen to. It was great as when you put your headphones down you could hear the room singing out loud to one of the channels. It was strange but equally brilliant and I managed to convert my boyfriend who was a little unsure but loved it by the end. The first time we went in was a lot better as there was Nirvana and other indie bands but the second time was more of a rave.
Overall the day was amazing and I really hope they do it again. There was probably so much more but to be honest I had such a great time it is hard to remember.
Katy B on the main stage
Sunday, 11 August 2013
Running from girls
I enjoy running, crazy I know in the past year I have done the Great south Run, a Santa 10k and the Marwell Zoo 10k. And I have already booked another Great South Run, another 10k and the Brighton half marathon. in the next year.
After the London 2012 Olympic games the country seemed to be a buzz with people wanting to get into sport and girls in particular had role models they could look up to - Jessica Ennis-Hill, Laura Trott and Ellie Simmonds.
However, I still feel there is a bit of a stigma among some girls about taking up sport and one reason I think for this is other girls.
Now there will be people out there who love sport and have the drive and determination to deliver and do the training, but if these girls are caught off guard at certain points in their training I think they can quickly be turned against the idea.
The reason why I feel other girls can put girls off sport doesn't really come from school as I was never interested in sport education mainly because it was always highly competitive and put me off. With running now I know I am never going to win and the only person I am competing against is myself.
So back to my argument I run quite a bit with my boyfriend but on some occasions when I am either on my own or he has run ahead I have be met with bitchy comments and sniggers from teenage girls who frankly make me worry about the future of women.
When I run I don't like glossy and glamorous, I look sweaty, bright red and a bit out of breath, but does this mean they can make snide comments to me?
I don't think so and at 27 I know better than to raise to the bait and simple jog on but it does make me wonder if the need to look perfect all the time puts girls off as either they don't want a hair out of place or are worried what other girls in their class might say.
It is really sad if this is the case as sport can be fun, and it has taken me many years to finally feel like that. I just hope that any girls reading this who are considering quitting sport for the wrong reasons think again.
Friday, 9 August 2013
A brave new world
I have been in my new job for about two months now and love every minute of writing for a magazine.
I thought I would plug etc Magazine in a bid to get web hits and people reading it.
The August edition came out about two weeks ago and was the first Hampshire edition alongside the three well-established Sussex editions which was very exciting especially since I live in Hampshire and I am very proud of my home county.
So, what can you expect from the magazines?
Well in Hampshire I went to a piloxing class which I am obsessed with and have signed up for six weeks - http://etcmag.net/high-energy-piloxing/
I also had a shrinking violet body wrap and lost in total about eight inches Read it on page 26 here - http://
And had a lovely meal at Italian La Piazzetta in Petersfield p.66
In the Sussex edition http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=cdbd86eb-0ed9-41e5-a590-031651c44a1c
I interviewed Alexandra Heminsley about her book 'Running like a Girl' which I can't recommend enough especially if you have just started running p. 134
Plus I talk to a couple about their home which used to be a water pumping station on p. 82
Plus there is lots, lots more in the e-mags and online at www.etcmag.net so check it out.
I thought I would plug etc Magazine in a bid to get web hits and people reading it.
The August edition came out about two weeks ago and was the first Hampshire edition alongside the three well-established Sussex editions which was very exciting especially since I live in Hampshire and I am very proud of my home county.
So, what can you expect from the magazines?
Well in Hampshire I went to a piloxing class which I am obsessed with and have signed up for six weeks - http://etcmag.net/high-energy-piloxing/
I also had a shrinking violet body wrap and lost in total about eight inches Read it on page 26 here - http://
And had a lovely meal at Italian La Piazzetta in Petersfield p.66
In the Sussex edition http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?pbid=cdbd86eb-0ed9-41e5-a590-031651c44a1c
I interviewed Alexandra Heminsley about her book 'Running like a Girl' which I can't recommend enough especially if you have just started running p. 134
Plus I talk to a couple about their home which used to be a water pumping station on p. 82
Plus there is lots, lots more in the e-mags and online at www.etcmag.net so check it out.
Wednesday, 24 July 2013
Barnum, Chichester Festival Theatre, Theatre in the Park, July 2013
First I will admit that I had no idea what Barnum was about before I went, I assumed it was about a circus but apart from that I was clueless.
I love musicals and I didn't think I would hate it, there are very few I do, but I didn't know if it would be my thing.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a real old school musical much like 42nd Street or Mary Poppins. From start to finish it was excellent and the fact it was in a big tent made it feel all the more special.
Barnum is part of Chichester Festival Theatre's summer programme and was staged in the Theatre in the Park as work is carried out on the building.
It follows the story of Phineas T Barnum, America's Greatest Showman, through his life and his marriage to his wife Chairy. I also didn't know before that he was a real person and that Barnum and Bailey's Circus - the Greatest Show on Earth was a real thing.
By far my favourite songs were 'Come join the band' and 'Black and white', the set up on stage and the musical performance was just spot on.
The show is full of glitz and tricks, with acrobatics, flame throwers, work on ropes and so much more. The dancers must be really strong the amount of throwing, catching and holding each other the way they do, it is phenomenal.
There is an elephant at one point which the way they have done it is just great. It got a lot of cheers and laughs.
Also at one point in the show Barnum carries out a tight rope walk, and he did it in one go. My friend had been the previous week and said it had taken three attempts and in the end he just went along the bottom. But I am so glad that he did it for us.
The show is a Cameron Mackintosh production so you know that he has a hit on his hands, co-produced with the Chichester Festival Theatre.
Christopher Fitzgerald plays P T Barnum a rising star on Broadway, he has so much charisma and charm that you fall under his spell. Tamsin Carroll plays Chairy is excellent and makes her more than just 'his wife' and doesn't hide in the shadow of the big performer Barnum.
This is just a really good, toe-tapping, old school musical and I really couldn't recommend it enough, and really don't want to give away too much as you really need to see it to believe it.
With previous Festival Theatre productions going on to be West End hits (Singin' in the Rain and Sweeney Todd) I don't doubt for a second that this one will follow it their footsteps.
For more information here is the website - http://www.cft.org.uk/barnum It is due to close at the end of August.
‘Barnum’s the name, P T Barnum, and I want to tell you that tonight, on this stage, you are going to see - bar none - every sight, wonder and miracle that name stands for!’
I love musicals and I didn't think I would hate it, there are very few I do, but I didn't know if it would be my thing.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a real old school musical much like 42nd Street or Mary Poppins. From start to finish it was excellent and the fact it was in a big tent made it feel all the more special.
Barnum is part of Chichester Festival Theatre's summer programme and was staged in the Theatre in the Park as work is carried out on the building.
It follows the story of Phineas T Barnum, America's Greatest Showman, through his life and his marriage to his wife Chairy. I also didn't know before that he was a real person and that Barnum and Bailey's Circus - the Greatest Show on Earth was a real thing.
By far my favourite songs were 'Come join the band' and 'Black and white', the set up on stage and the musical performance was just spot on.
The show is full of glitz and tricks, with acrobatics, flame throwers, work on ropes and so much more. The dancers must be really strong the amount of throwing, catching and holding each other the way they do, it is phenomenal.
There is an elephant at one point which the way they have done it is just great. It got a lot of cheers and laughs.
Also at one point in the show Barnum carries out a tight rope walk, and he did it in one go. My friend had been the previous week and said it had taken three attempts and in the end he just went along the bottom. But I am so glad that he did it for us.
The show is a Cameron Mackintosh production so you know that he has a hit on his hands, co-produced with the Chichester Festival Theatre.
Christopher Fitzgerald plays P T Barnum a rising star on Broadway, he has so much charisma and charm that you fall under his spell. Tamsin Carroll plays Chairy is excellent and makes her more than just 'his wife' and doesn't hide in the shadow of the big performer Barnum.
This is just a really good, toe-tapping, old school musical and I really couldn't recommend it enough, and really don't want to give away too much as you really need to see it to believe it.
With previous Festival Theatre productions going on to be West End hits (Singin' in the Rain and Sweeney Todd) I don't doubt for a second that this one will follow it their footsteps.
For more information here is the website - http://www.cft.org.uk/barnum It is due to close at the end of August.
‘Barnum’s the name, P T Barnum, and I want to tell you that tonight, on this stage, you are going to see - bar none - every sight, wonder and miracle that name stands for!’
Friday, 19 July 2013
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay, Montego Bay, Jamaica - July 2013
This time last week I was in Jamaica preparing for my and my boyfriend's friend's wedding.
I was bridesmaid and he was one of the groomsmen. It was the perfect day, the weather was behaving and was just glorious and the day ended with the 16 strong wedding party singing, dancing and drinking on the beach long after the sun went down - amazing!
Coming back home the heat hasn't been much of an issue as in Jamaica it was probably a bit hotter but incredibly humid.
So the holiday, in one word fantastic! This is the first time I have done an all inclusive holiday and traveled to a sunny island out of the EU. Jamaica, what I saw of it, was brilliant, so green. I will admit we didn't leave the resort but the people were just so friendly, always singing and dancing. I really fell in love with the place.
As for the hotel - Secrets Wild Orchid, Montego Bay, it was huge and nothing disappointed. The food was delicious and as we were only there for seven nights we were unable to experience all the nine restaurants. We did try the Caribbean, Italian and Japanese plus a lobster buffet - in the Japanese they cook on a hot plate and serve up the food direct to your plate, although I'm sure in Japan the cooks don't sing Shaggy and Sean Paul.
The world cafe is a buffet at breakfast and certain days in the week, if you go try out the lobster night, it was great.
In the day coconut water, Jamaican fruit and Jerk chicken stalls do the rounds. I have only tried coconut water once out of a carton but it is so much better direct from the source and the fruit was refreshing after indulging in far too much food. Also I have tried jerk chicken before and it is far spicier in Jamaica.
All inclusive obviously means drinks as well, and the cocktail list were extensive and delicious. A 'We Be Jammin' didn't taste very alcoholic so be warned. Also if you have anything with rum in be careful as the measurements were obviously a bit skewed as they were always really strong. My only regret I didn't have a Bob Marley.
The piano bar is a great place to chill with a cocktail and sing a song or two with the piano man. And Desires nightclub also has a karaoke night a couple of times a week.
The room was so nice and I have never been anywhere where the air con worked so much we actually moaned a little that the room was too cold.
I loved this place, and can see why so many people were getting married there. It is the perfect place for a holiday, honeymoon or wedding.
I'm now saving up the pennies for my next trip to paradise.
Wednesday, 10 July 2013
Whoa I'm off to Jamaica
So by the time you read this I will be on a plane flying to Jamaica to the holiday of a lifetime.
The wedding is on Friday, I will be bridesmaid and my boyfriend is one of the groom's men. I will share all when I get back!
The wedding is on Friday, I will be bridesmaid and my boyfriend is one of the groom's men. I will share all when I get back!
Tuesday, 9 July 2013
Hard Rock Calling, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, June 2013
This may have been a long time in the making but at the end of June I was over the moon to have had the chance to go to the Olympic Park or as the part I went to is now called the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The reason I went there, Hard Rock Calling, which left Hyde Park and has now pitched up in the park.
The first band we managed to catch were Irish band Kodaline, who were so good and even surprised my boyfriend who was convinced they were going to be like The Script. I loved High Hopes and the beautiful All I Want.
The headliners for the event were Kasabian who played a 2 hour set and were worth the £55 tickets price alone. Alongside crowd favourites LSF, Shoot the Runner and Fire, they also played Fatboy Slim's Praise You and The Korgis' Everybody's Gotta Learn Sometimes which was hauntingly beautiful.
I have seen Kasabian twice before and they know how to work the audience in smaller venues but were masters of the crowd of around 45,000. It could have easily been their own concert.
The main stage was situated near the velodrome, which looked as if a spaceship had crash landed as the sun set behind it.
Overall there were three stages - The Pepsi Max and Hard Rock Rising which had new acts and people like Gaz Coombes from Supergrass and Steve Cradock from Ocean Colour Scene who I heard briefly on my way to the toilet.
The Pepsi Max stage was great and featured The Twang, The View and The Tribes. The Tribes were quite good and the boyfriend suggested that we check them out, we stayed for about twenty minutes of their set before catching the end of Miles Kane on the main stage.
In between bands we also managed to catch a few songs by The Cribs, which was great and a brilliant warm up as I am planning to see them at the Victorious Festival in Portsmouth in August. Miles Kane rocked it in all white and we heard him perform Come Closer, Inhaler and the amazing Give Up which sounded phenomenal.
After him was the Modfather Paul Weller, who even though he only played for about an hour filled it with hit after hit - The Changing Man and That's Entertainment.
I have seen Weller twice before and always had to leave before the end so have never seen him perform Town Called Malice. This time we were there and when the opening chords started the whole field erupted and everyone was dancing their heart out, including me and my boyfriend. Paul Weller did not disappoint.
For food we had a pulled pork sandwich from Barbeco Jamie Oliver stand, it was delicious and was only about £6. Quite good value for money as there was a lot and I couldn't eat it all.
However, the drinks were quite expensive, soft drinks were £2.50 and considering how hot it was there was the chance people could have gone through quite a bit. Also my boyfriend didn't manage to have a cold, refreshing pint as the queues for the bar was ridiculous.
Overall though I loved being at the park and watching these amazing bands, if they are this good next year at the same price I will be there.
And while I remember we got to walk right past the Olympic Stadium and the strange red looking thing. The stadium is huge and it is hard to believe that this time last year the Olympics were about to kick off and the park was buzzing with people everyday.
The reason I went there, Hard Rock Calling, which left Hyde Park and has now pitched up in the park.
The first band we managed to catch were Irish band Kodaline, who were so good and even surprised my boyfriend who was convinced they were going to be like The Script. I loved High Hopes and the beautiful All I Want.
The headliners for the event were Kasabian who played a 2 hour set and were worth the £55 tickets price alone. Alongside crowd favourites LSF, Shoot the Runner and Fire, they also played Fatboy Slim's Praise You and The Korgis' Everybody's Gotta Learn Sometimes which was hauntingly beautiful.
I have seen Kasabian twice before and they know how to work the audience in smaller venues but were masters of the crowd of around 45,000. It could have easily been their own concert.
The main stage was situated near the velodrome, which looked as if a spaceship had crash landed as the sun set behind it.
Overall there were three stages - The Pepsi Max and Hard Rock Rising which had new acts and people like Gaz Coombes from Supergrass and Steve Cradock from Ocean Colour Scene who I heard briefly on my way to the toilet.
The Pepsi Max stage was great and featured The Twang, The View and The Tribes. The Tribes were quite good and the boyfriend suggested that we check them out, we stayed for about twenty minutes of their set before catching the end of Miles Kane on the main stage.
In between bands we also managed to catch a few songs by The Cribs, which was great and a brilliant warm up as I am planning to see them at the Victorious Festival in Portsmouth in August. Miles Kane rocked it in all white and we heard him perform Come Closer, Inhaler and the amazing Give Up which sounded phenomenal.
After him was the Modfather Paul Weller, who even though he only played for about an hour filled it with hit after hit - The Changing Man and That's Entertainment.
I have seen Weller twice before and always had to leave before the end so have never seen him perform Town Called Malice. This time we were there and when the opening chords started the whole field erupted and everyone was dancing their heart out, including me and my boyfriend. Paul Weller did not disappoint.
For food we had a pulled pork sandwich from Barbeco Jamie Oliver stand, it was delicious and was only about £6. Quite good value for money as there was a lot and I couldn't eat it all.
However, the drinks were quite expensive, soft drinks were £2.50 and considering how hot it was there was the chance people could have gone through quite a bit. Also my boyfriend didn't manage to have a cold, refreshing pint as the queues for the bar was ridiculous.
Overall though I loved being at the park and watching these amazing bands, if they are this good next year at the same price I will be there.
And while I remember we got to walk right past the Olympic Stadium and the strange red looking thing. The stadium is huge and it is hard to believe that this time last year the Olympics were about to kick off and the park was buzzing with people everyday.
Friday, 5 July 2013
Jersey Boys, Prince Edward Theatre, London, June 2013
I went to see Jersey Boys as part of a hen-do, probably not the usually musical hens go to but it is one I have never seen before so I was actually looking forward to it.
I had also heard a lot of good things about the musical, apparently it is David Beckham's favourite, if it good enough for him I was sure it would be good enough for me.
For anyone who has never seen it, or even heard of it, Jersey tells the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons during the 60s, a New Jersey band made up of boys from the wrong side of the tracks who invented their own unique sound and were inducted into the Rock and Roll hall of Fame. They have also sold 100 million records worldwide
As far as sets go it is pretty sparse and uses a lot of Roy Lichtentstein pictures, which I loved.
Now I went into this not really thinking I knew any Four Seasons songs, how wrong was I.
The production includes - Beggin' which was used as a sample by Madcon in 2007; Can't Take My Eyes Off You, Oh What A Night, Walk Like a Man, Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye) and Big Girls Don't Cry to name a few. I was singing and dancing to songs thinking - I know this!
It also made me want to go and back the Four Seasons back catalogue.
Ryan Molloy plays Frankie Valli and has done so for a number of years, he was excellent going from the young, naive 16-year-old to showman.
All the cast was so good and it really made me want to find out a bit more about the band.
I can see why people love it and there definitely were some fans in the audience. I for one would love to see it again.
I saw it at the Prince Edward Theatre, where it has been for five years, and sat up in the upper circle, which was a little scary at first but when the show started it was the last thing on my mind I was so enthralled by the musical I completely forgot where I was sitting.
From March it will be in the Piccadilly Theatre as Viva Forever has now closed.
If you want a nostalgic, feel good musical, although there is a little gritty drama thrown in, set in the 60s and full of loads of songs you will know go to Jersey Boys you won't regret it.
Thursday, 4 July 2013
Priscilla Queen of the Desert, UK tour, The Mayflower, Southampton, June 2013
Anyone who has read this blog before will know that firstly I love musicals, secondly I really love Priscilla Queen of the Desert and felt there should be national day of mourning when it closed in the West End of London.
Imagine my delight then when it was announced that Priscilla was on the move and coming to Southampton Mayflower.
Now I saw it at the beginning of June and have been a bit snowed under with exams, holiday prep and just work in general so I have been unable to write about the tour, but thought with a free evening I would put pen to paper, so to speak.
The basic story from the West End and Australian show is the same, three drag queens travelling across the desert from Sydney to Alice Springs to perform at a Casino.
There is still the fascination with Kylie Minogue, the American one it has been changed to Madonna. Most of the songs are the same except the opening song of 'Downtown' has been changed to 'It's Raining Men' which works really, really well. They have also added 'True colours' which is in the US version.
Obviously stage-wise there are restrictions, especially when it comes to the bus. Priscilla is reduced to a bottom bit with screens near the top, however, it still works, you can imagine the bus is there and also it means that it is less likely to break down, as it sometimes did in London.
Noel Sullivan, of Hear'Say fame, was Tick on the week I went and was really good. He has amazing vocal ability and really camped up the character as I think sometimes people try to play Tick a bit safe as Adam is the overly camp one. It does seem though I am never going to see Jason Donovan in the role, as I have seen Ben Richards and Richard Grieve but never Jason.
Graham Weaver played Adam and although I love the original Adam - Olivier Thornton, Graham did a really good job.
Bernadette this time was played by Richard Grieve who I had previously seen as Tick and to be honest I think his Bernadette was amazing. I think he really suited the role better than the role of Tick. He was brilliant and really was a good looking woman...
There is so much colour and glamour when you see Priscilla that you just want to dance all the way home. I hope they keep touring as I never get tired of this musical, well I have seen it four times. If you want to see it, go to the tour!
New job!
I now have a new job. I have moved from the murky world of local newspapers to a magazine job.
I will admit I really enjoyed working for a newspaper, although I never thought I would ever say that. But you get such a great grounding in everything, from death knocks to court, council meetings to charity stories. It is also a great way to build up your confidence.
So on to my new job I am now a features writer for etc Magazine - http://www.etcmag.net/ and even more exciting it is launching a Hampshire edition in August so I get to write about the county I am proud to call my home.
In my first edition I interviewed Aldo Zilli and Peter Andre. It is great be able to spend time interviewing people and it is so varied. I also met Antonio Carluccio - a cooking legend.
On another note just to plug something, anyone wanting to be a journalist should check out Highbury College who are launching a year course with The News. I did the fast-track 20 week course there and as you know it was hard but so worth it I wouldn't have my dream job if I hadn't attended the course.
Also out of 13 people on the course only a couple didn't get jobs as a journalist, but one does now work for the MET office. People from my course now work at The News, Daily Echo, M&Y News Agency, Rex Features and the BBC, how cool is that.
Saying that tomorrow I have my NCE exam to be a senior reporter, very nerve wrecking but fingers crossed in a month I will be posting good news! Good luck to anyone else doing it.
Saturday, 1 June 2013
Film review - The Great Gatsby, Baz Luhrmann
The Great Gatsby (2013) (12A)
Director - Baz Lurhmann
Starring - Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Isla Fisher, Elizabeth Debicki, Jason Clarke
Synopsis from IMDB - An adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's Long Island-set novel, where Midwesterner Nick Carraway is lured into the lavish world of his neighbor, Jay Gatsby. Soon enough, however, Carraway will see through the cracks of Gatsby's nouveau riche existence, where obsession, madness, and tragedy await.
I will start by saying two things, I read the book and wasn't overwhelmed, I thought I would love it but didn't really connect. I think the fact it is quite short and it told from Nick Carraway's perspective it is hard to really truly got to know the characters. Secondly I love Baz Luhrmann, he is one of my favorite directors along with Christopher Nolan.
So I knew I was probably going to like the style of this film if only because it is Luhrmann, which I did.
However, I thought the film was brilliant. It has been panned by the critics as being shallow but then isn't that what the film is all about? The characters are superficial and shallow, interested in money and what they look like on the outside. It is all about the glamour, the huge parties and the money.
Style wise it feels like Moulin Rouge! the modern day music and bold and bright colours, one big party.
I really think Leonardo DiCaprio is a vastly underrated actor, he has been in so many good films and pulls it out the bag, hello Django Unchanined, The Departed and The Aviator, all worthy of an Oscar. As Gatsby he adds a damaged quality, you feel for him, the lengths he has gone to to get the girl he loves, almost as if he doesn't feel he is enough for her but has to have the bravado of being 'Gatsby'.
I have heard reviews that people feel Carey Mulligan wasn't right for Daisy but I think she is great in the role. The beauty and innocence that Daisy has, she is probably in love with the idea of who she was when she met Gatsby rather than him. Carey is tortured and torn, not quite sure what she wants in her life.
Isla Fisher, as always, is phenomenal I do love her.
The film is in 3d but I saw it in 2d and I don't think it took anything away from it. Also Leo looks nearly exactly the same as he did in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet back in 1996.
It is very true to the book which is good and I think made me understand the book a bit more and care a bit more about the characters,
If you love Baz Luhrmann and Leo you will love this.
Director - Baz Lurhmann
Starring - Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Isla Fisher, Elizabeth Debicki, Jason Clarke
Synopsis from IMDB - An adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's Long Island-set novel, where Midwesterner Nick Carraway is lured into the lavish world of his neighbor, Jay Gatsby. Soon enough, however, Carraway will see through the cracks of Gatsby's nouveau riche existence, where obsession, madness, and tragedy await.
I will start by saying two things, I read the book and wasn't overwhelmed, I thought I would love it but didn't really connect. I think the fact it is quite short and it told from Nick Carraway's perspective it is hard to really truly got to know the characters. Secondly I love Baz Luhrmann, he is one of my favorite directors along with Christopher Nolan.
So I knew I was probably going to like the style of this film if only because it is Luhrmann, which I did.
However, I thought the film was brilliant. It has been panned by the critics as being shallow but then isn't that what the film is all about? The characters are superficial and shallow, interested in money and what they look like on the outside. It is all about the glamour, the huge parties and the money.
Style wise it feels like Moulin Rouge! the modern day music and bold and bright colours, one big party.
I really think Leonardo DiCaprio is a vastly underrated actor, he has been in so many good films and pulls it out the bag, hello Django Unchanined, The Departed and The Aviator, all worthy of an Oscar. As Gatsby he adds a damaged quality, you feel for him, the lengths he has gone to to get the girl he loves, almost as if he doesn't feel he is enough for her but has to have the bravado of being 'Gatsby'.
I have heard reviews that people feel Carey Mulligan wasn't right for Daisy but I think she is great in the role. The beauty and innocence that Daisy has, she is probably in love with the idea of who she was when she met Gatsby rather than him. Carey is tortured and torn, not quite sure what she wants in her life.
Isla Fisher, as always, is phenomenal I do love her.
The film is in 3d but I saw it in 2d and I don't think it took anything away from it. Also Leo looks nearly exactly the same as he did in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet back in 1996.
It is very true to the book which is good and I think made me understand the book a bit more and care a bit more about the characters,
If you love Baz Luhrmann and Leo you will love this.
Wednesday, 29 May 2013
David Bowie Is... V&A museum, London until August 11, 2013
I went into this exhibition liking a few Bowie songs - Rebel, Rebel and Heroes - but came out completely in love with the artist.
It shows that he isn't just a singer but a creative genius. He has so much control over every aspect of his image that it is just amazing and like all good artists his longevity is down to the fact that he changes and adapts to the world around him. Bowie is always one step in front of the curve, he was a Mod before they were cool, and was a pioneer of glam rock.
The V&A was given unprecedented access to David Bowie's archive to curate this, the first international retrospective. It features more than 300 objects including handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments.
The really amazing thing is that you go around with headphones on, and due to sensors around the exhibition the music and commentary plays when you get within reach, which is just great as it really is an interactive experience.
It is a great exhibition really thought out and planned to perfection but after seeing how Bowie has been throughout his whole career it isn't really any surprise that he would plan his exhibition to the last detail.
You find out so much about the artist and his influence on modern day culture today be it fashion or films. After the exhibition I really noticed how Lady Gaga is influenced by him in her style and ethos.
At the end of the exhibition you enter a room with costumes and things to do with his tour as well as three massive screens playing his concerts. At one point it had the same song on three screens but from different gigs over the years, at the end the audience clapped it was a fantastic gig atmosphere.
You even see props from Labyrinth...the amazing 80s film.
There was just a great atmosphere and I really think this is one of the best exhibitions the V&A has ever had. If you kind of like Bowie, or passionately love him go and see this, try and get tickets it really is amazing.
For more on the exhibition visit: http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/exhibitions/david-bowie-is/
Tuesday, 28 May 2013
Lichtenstein A Retrospective, Tate Modern Museum, London
For as long as I can remember I have loved Roy Lichtenstein. I wasn't always sure of the name but always loved the comic book style of paintings. I am huge fan of pop art in general along with Andy Warhol.
When I saw on the Culture Show that the Tate Modern was holding a Lichtenstein - A Retrospective exhibition I got online and bought some tickets.
The exhibition had a lot of paintings and sculptures including some of the more well known ones including Whaam! Drowning Girl and Masterpiece. Looking up close at the comic style paintings - benday dot style - they are just fascinating. The amount of detail and meticulous repetition is just mind boggling. I really don't think that pictures of the paintings do them justice, they look like screen prints or reproductions and not a piece of art.
I was really surprised to see the art I never knew Lictenstein did, I will admit I was a little naive and just thought he did the comic prints. Some of the most beautiful in the collection were the Chinese landscape portraits such as Landscape with Philosopher - which was breath-taking and kind of poetic.
Some have said that he merely copied pictures but the skill he displays in those paintings is excellent. He also ventured into sculpture with art deco pieces and his two sided bust which has a blonde on one side a a blue haired girl on the other which looks a little bit like a Katy Perry cover and again I never knew existed.
The exhibition had 12 rooms dedicated to different phases and themes of his work with 125 paintings and sculptures in total.
The Tate's website said: "The artist’s rich and expansive practice is represented by a wide range of materials, including paintings on Rowlux and steel, as well sculptures in ceramic and brass and a selection of previously unseen drawings, collages and works on paper. Room after room pays tribute to his extraordinary oeuvre, celebrating the visual power and intellectual rigour of Roy Lichtenstein’s work."
The exhibition ended on Monday but if you ever get a chance to see it again do so and the Tate already has a couple of Lichtenstein paintings which you can see for free.
I really enjoyed it and was fascinated by it all.
For more on the Tate visit - http://www.tate.org.uk/
When I saw on the Culture Show that the Tate Modern was holding a Lichtenstein - A Retrospective exhibition I got online and bought some tickets.
The exhibition had a lot of paintings and sculptures including some of the more well known ones including Whaam! Drowning Girl and Masterpiece. Looking up close at the comic style paintings - benday dot style - they are just fascinating. The amount of detail and meticulous repetition is just mind boggling. I really don't think that pictures of the paintings do them justice, they look like screen prints or reproductions and not a piece of art.
I was really surprised to see the art I never knew Lictenstein did, I will admit I was a little naive and just thought he did the comic prints. Some of the most beautiful in the collection were the Chinese landscape portraits such as Landscape with Philosopher - which was breath-taking and kind of poetic.
Some have said that he merely copied pictures but the skill he displays in those paintings is excellent. He also ventured into sculpture with art deco pieces and his two sided bust which has a blonde on one side a a blue haired girl on the other which looks a little bit like a Katy Perry cover and again I never knew existed.
The exhibition had 12 rooms dedicated to different phases and themes of his work with 125 paintings and sculptures in total.
The Tate's website said: "The artist’s rich and expansive practice is represented by a wide range of materials, including paintings on Rowlux and steel, as well sculptures in ceramic and brass and a selection of previously unseen drawings, collages and works on paper. Room after room pays tribute to his extraordinary oeuvre, celebrating the visual power and intellectual rigour of Roy Lichtenstein’s work."
The exhibition ended on Monday but if you ever get a chance to see it again do so and the Tate already has a couple of Lichtenstein paintings which you can see for free.
I really enjoyed it and was fascinated by it all.
For more on the Tate visit - http://www.tate.org.uk/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)