EACH WEEK WE ARE GOING TO FOCUS THE SPOTLIGHT ON ONE OF SOUTHEND'S CREATIVE TALENTS
James Edmunds - The Design Cabin Community
Meet James from The Design Cabin Community!
“We are so excited to announce we’re hosting 2 amazing workshops at the upcoming Craft Show!
Give It A Go – The Hands-On Craft Show is coming to Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre on Saturday 9th November, 10am – 4pm!
In this hands-on session, we will guide you through the process of creating your very own personalized keychain! After a quick safety introduction, you’ll learn how to input your design into the software and watch as the machine buzzes into life, bringing your creation to reality.
With fun challenges along the way, you’ll leave the session with a unique 3D masterpiece, handmade by you. Perfect for all skill levels, this workshop combines creativity with cutting-edge technology for an unforgettable experience!”
PREVIOUS SPOTLIGHTS.....
ALISON GARNER – ELEVATOR ARTS.
Elevator Arts deliver life enhancing, transformative & empowering arts & drama projects with young people in Southend & South Essex.
We create young people centred projects for those most in need & with often least access to arts activity. Our mission is to effect social change & improve young people’s lives through creative projects tailored to support their mental health, wellbeing & life skills.
AMY LEE POTTERY
KELLY BUCKLEY
I’m a professional electronic music composer, sound designer, sound artist, digital artist and journalist. I create music and sound design for media, write for newspapers and mags and also create sound-art projects with visuals. Sometimes the visual work I create – which is usually symbiotic with the music/sound work
I make – ends up as eco prints on a variety of organic products such as clothing, art prints or sustainable jigsaw puzzles which I sell in my online shop. My work tends to be environmentally inspired and I particularly enjoy plugging in to nature’s frequencies to conduct music.
DOOLY MOON
Making jewelry for me is a creative outlet that is not only fun but also very therapeutic. I was diagnosed with ME 13 years ago, so having a space to work at my own pace and sell something I’m proud of is very empowering.
MADDI CREASE
I am a poet and visual artist studying my BA in fine art at University Centre South Essex. I host The Listening Room, a creative open mic in Leigh-on-Sea, which runs on the second Wednesday of every month. As a poet, I write primarily on mental health. As an artist I am still exploring and finding my ‘thing’ – or things – but really enjoy drypoint etching and life drawing.
Krafty Kella
Meet Kelly Eaton, aka Krafty Kella!
Kelly will be hosting Rag Wreath taster sessions at our Give It A Go Craft Show on Saturday 9th November at Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre
Farida Kamruddin
Sketchy Selfcare offers creative self-care art groups, workshops and events using art as a self-care tool to empower, connect and cultivate self-love.
“My mission with Sketchy Selfcare is to share what I have discovered through my own creative self development journey and a life long love of art, design and creativity. Sketchy Selfcare brings together a community of empowered artists of all ages. I believe in the awesome power of art to heal, connect, empower and bring more joy into the world.
My message is to give yourself permission to make art and get creative without judgement or a desired outcome, but for the process, connection and self expression.
Farida will be hosting sticker and collage taster sessions at our Give It A Go Craft Show on Saturday 9th November at Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre
Shraddha Malvankar
Shradz Creations
“I am a self-taught artist who has learned Resin Art, Lippan Art, and Hand Embroidery through hands-on practice and learning from my own mistakes.
This self-driven approach has given me a deep understanding of these crafts and the ability to explain them in a straightforward and relatable manner.
My teaching style is patient, adaptive, and inclusive, aiming to make the crafting experience enjoyable and accessible for everyone, regardless of their skill level or background.”
Mireille Roskilly
Mireille creates fun, creative and personalised craft parties for children, teens and adults within the Essex area as Jemela Craft Club!
During term time Mireille runs after school craft clubs, as well as a craft holiday club during the school holidays, in hockley, Essex.
Her daughter Ela helps to run the children’s craft parties and holiday clubs. They are a mother and daughter team!
For adults and teens she also runs regular monthly decoupage workshops for beginners in Hullbridge, Essex, along with adult craft birthday parties, hen parties, baby showers and family & friend craft get togethers.
Claire Bartlett
Claire is an Essex based artist.
Her art tells stories or celebrates life, and is rooted in where she lives.
Claire has been running classes since around 1990
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone starting their own craft business?
Never stop learning!
What inspires you to keep doing your craft and your business?:
Art is what I do and what I am. I couldn`t imagine doing anything else.
Claire will be hosting watercolour taster sessions at our Give It A Go Craft Show on Saturday 9th November at Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre
Sharon Stone
Sharon is a Southend based artist.
Art is her passion, and she creates bespoke commission pieces in a whole range of mediums and painting categories.
Her mission is to create beautiful personal pieces of art for people around the globe.
Sharon specialises in portrait paintings.
“I think in an age of mass-printed posters and more, personal commission pieces are the one painting medium that you just can’t replicate in a print that you can find inside a big retail store – It’s personal, and holds that emotional weight and care that others will certainly appreciate over generic prints.”
Sharon is hosting a canvas painting workshop at our Craft Club on Monday 30th September at Barling Magna Parish Hall.
Helen Barry – Midnight Awl
Helen is a book binder who has been crafting different styles of books and boxes for over a decade.
My love for bookbinding sparked from a recommendation from my tutor at Camberwell Art Foundation and I haven’t looked back since.
I find my creative inspiration through film photography, walks in nature and exploring different places.
Bookbinding is an incredibly creative and meditative practice. When working on my own passion projects it becomes an act of self-care as it allows me time to slowdown, unwind and be introspective. Match that feeling with creating your own notebook and the sense of connection becomes strong.
I am most proud of a series of life story books that I developed for my Grandma (101 years young btw!) using her notes of all the little milestones of daily life, holidays and special occasions. This has become undoubtedly the handiest item for when family and friends visit her since she has dementia that makes it hard to know how to interact with her sometimes. It brings so much joy and smiles to everyone’s faces.
- What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone starting their own craft business?
Take note or photo of all the small wins as they come and keep a folder of them, it really helps to look back at how far you have come and everything you have achieved!
Helen will be hosting a Coptic Notebook Stitching workshop at our Craft Club on Monday 7th October at Brock’s Corner in Rochford, as well as taster sessions at our Give It A Go Craft Show on Saturday 9th November at Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre
Liz Casey – Metallust Jewellery
I’ve been officially Metal Lust Jewellery since 2018 but I’ve always made jewellery and had a jewellery bench at home since I graduated from UAL Silversmithing & Metalwork Degree in 2006.
I love making jewellery and using my hands. I love the purposeful nature of making; its also therapeutic because it’s gets me in a mindful headspace, I also get to be creative at the same time. I’ve been making jewellery for nearly 20 years and I still have moments when I step back and feel proud that someone is wearing something I have made and treasures it.
I don’t think any one day is the same when running my jewellery business. One day I might be preparing materials for a jewellery making class and the next I might be working on a precious ring commission or exploring a new type of wax to cast in silver for a new collection. And then of course working on social media posts and admin! I enjoy the variety my job brings and I love sharing the skills that have taken me many years to hone, but I also love learning new skills like stone setting and wax carving.
Lesley Gillard
I’ve always loved doing various crafts & was volunteering at an early onset dementia centre when we went into lockdown.
I was always looking at ways to reuse resources & materials to produce work at very little cost. We had an ongoing whatsapp group for our members during lockdown, so I was posting ideas for them to try at home, not just for when we got back into the centre.
We were taking up some of our decking at home, as our steps down to the garden were rotten. Lots of the decking was still in good condition, so I was trying to think what I could make with it – I remembered pin art from when I was young, it was all I managed to think of to use the decking for. That’s how it started! I had a biscuit tin full of old embroidery threads left to me from my grandma’s cross stitch days, when she died. I’d never had a use for them, but thought they would be perfect for my pin art idea.
When I started, I decided it was too difficult for our members to do, but the idea had inspired me, so I just carried on myself from there. A Heart was my first creation, with a Poppy not long after. It’s all just evolved from there.
The things I love most about Pin Art & Paint Pouring are the ability to create something new & exciting from recycled wood, Cd’s, Bottles etc that I use. I haven’t seen many repetitions of my craft, despite attending lots of craft fairs. The pin art in particular seems to be quite unique, which I like. It’s great to build layers & depth into each piece. In addition to allowing new life to an object that also gives other people pleasure from my creations.
I stay productive & motivated as I’m always coming up with new ideas of designs to make & things to try that could improve & enhance my work. There never seems to be enough time in a day to achieve what I’m trying to do. So I’m always kept productive. I’d love to have the time to try out all my ideas, but unfortunately time also has to be given to preparing other work, orders & replenishing stock for the next craft fair.
I love the effects I can create with the paints & pin art, in an ideal world I’d sell my work for the value of not just the materials, but also the time it takes to make them.
My motivation comes from wanting to continue creating new & old work, which means I need to adjust my business to help get more funds to cover my costs & time that I put into my work.
My latest adaption has been to begin doing Workshops from my home. This not only means I don’t have to move stock around, but I also have company & get paid for being at home. Everyone who’s attended has thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
I’ve recently agreed to run a Wellbeing Day Workshop at USP College for the staff. I did 2x 1 hour sessions with 12 people in each, which went really well. The result of this is that I can now offer Mobile Mini Workshops aswell as my larger Workshops from my home. Allowing them to be more accessible for different people & groups of friends.
It’s nice to see other people enjoying creating their own pieces of work, with my help.
Lesley will be hosting a pin art workshop at our Craft Club on Monday 23rd Sept at Brock’s Corner in Rochford, as well as a pin art taster session at our Give It A Go Craft Show on Saturday 9th November at Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre
Gypsy Moon Macrame
Simone will be hosting a macrame workshop at our Craft Club on 16th Sept at Hockley Old Fire Station, as well as a macrame taster session at our Give It A Go Craft Show on Saturday 9th November at Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre
Claire Keay – Sherbet Felt
Claire will be hosting a needle felting taster session at our Give It A Go Craft Show on Saturday 9th Novemer @Rayleigh Mill Arts Centre
Katy Beck-Hill
Charlie Bates
My favourite thing in Southend is my bestie Amy Haynes (@aamy.louisee) and also the sea.
Lisa Sara Jenkin
Sandra Goldmaster
We recently got bikes and I would say cycling along Southend sea front is my favourite place to be.
Maddie Scates
Amy Haynes
My favourite thing to do in Southend is gather as many 2p’s as I can find and hit the arcades!
Marine Mammal & The Locals
…Are a four piece band of musical refugees from the much missed Railway Hotel. They play an intuitive mix of indie and pub-rock based around the songs of local artist Ewan Barr (or Marine Mammal to give him his nom-de-brush).
UPCOMING GIGS
The Fake Folk Festival (Leigh Folk Festival Fundraiser)
Fisherman’s Chapel, Leigh on Sea
Friday June 28th
Pillage Scream
Twenty One, S Seafront
Sat July 6th
Our favourite place in Southend is Craftwerk Beer, being a favourite haunt/second home for the band.
Holly Clarkson
Red Nettle
Southend is a place of contradiction, of fast-paced fairgrounds and the slow-moving Thames Estuary whilst affluent neighbourhoods rub shoulders nervously with a town centre in need of love and care.
From these contradictions comes a creative tension, evidenced by the huge
talent, energy and DIY ethos of its creative sector.
Stacey Williamson-Michie
Steven Rosen
Steven Rosen is based in Leigh on Sea, and is an entrepreneur—writer, filmmaker, podcast host and speaker.
His current works are a Memoir Lost in the Babylon:
Steven Rosen’s gripping memoir of addiction, organised crime, and the desperate struggle to heal childhood trauma in sobriety. Steven’s struggle for childhood emotional survival in London’s East End led him into a life of addiction and drug dealing with a warring Lebanese militia. By the age of twenty-three, a hardened criminal, he had survived high-speed police chases, prisons and attempted suicide, but facing the truth was his toughest challenge. Abandoning crime, he rose from the depths of addiction into a millionaire businessman, but something crucial was missing. The desperate search to find himself led to the streets of his childhood and the precipice of life, death and the deep secret that awaited.
My favourite thing to do in Southend is Yoga at The Yoga Factory. Cold water swimming from Chalkwell Beach in winter, paddleboarding in summer and enjoying the wonderful mix of people I meet at various cafes.
Claire Hankey
I am an abstract artist working in mixed media, including collage, acrylic and oil and cold wax.
My evocative, atmospheric paintings are inspired by nature walks and childhood memories. Glimmers of landscapes, reflections in water, ambiguous plant forms, are all reoccurring motifs within my work.
I have recently created a series of botanical inspired paintings with the talented Shilpa Agashe, a London based watercolour artist. Our collection is currently on show in the wonderful Clifftown Telephone Museum in Southend. The installation is entitled ‘Reach Out’ and aims to celebrate the power of human connection in particular handwritten communication.
You can also see my paintings on the walls of The Squeeze Cafe in Leigh Broadway, this is also my venue for The Leigh Art Trail in July.
I also host a podcast called ‘Where The Art Began’ in which I interview artists about how their early years has impacted their art making.
Denise Deakins
I have been visiting Southend from a very young age and have worked and studied in the area for most of my life. Southend has so many interesting creative people. I love the mixture that we have here of the seafront, wonderful green spaces and arts and culture. It has a lot to offer someone like me.
Victoria Sills
Victoria is based in Westcliff and works across multiple disciplines, primarily with paint, print & drawing using traditional methods to explore contemporary subjects such as mental health in an ever-increasing technological world.
Victoria’s work has appeared in publications such as Elle Decoration, A5 Magazine and Trawler. She is an ongoing member of the TOMA (The Other MA) Associate Programme, ArtCan Organisation and 70 Broadway Gallery collective and teaches an online painting course.
She recently took part in the Sky Portrait Artist of the Year tv show and came second in the Southend Portrait Artist 2023 competition.
Jesse Diss
My favourite place to go in Southend was The Railway Hotel, in Cliftown Road. It was an incredible and unique place, with the best vibe. I really miss it. I really liked the fact the building wasnt perfect, it was in dire need of repair, but that was what gave it such character. It was perfectly imperfect. I like art, and music, that has multiple layers, and the Railway was the almost living embodiment of this. I was the last person to perform on that stage in a normal gig setting, ( march 22nd ) before the first lockdown of 2020, playing White Stripes covers with my dad on drums. I think If I had a claim to fame, I would probably site that as it. It opened again briefly after that, during one of the lifts in lockdown restrictions, with a few seated shows, but it wasn’t the same.. I am forever hoping it will rise again from the ashes…long live The Railway. These days I really enjoy going to Twenty One, on the sea front.
Natasha Davis
Emily and Louise
My favourite place in Southend is the Clifftown conservation area, particularly Prittlewell Square. I’d love to live there and have a view of the beautiful gardens.
Mrs P Talks and Teaches
The Balmoral Centre, Westcliff SS0 7AU
Mrs P Talks and Teaches
My favourite thing about Southend is that it has got a real artistic community within and that there are plenty of creative people around i.e. street art festival, Beecroft Art Gallery, many art trails and music festivals/venues as well as an art college & University. There is an abundance of creativity and expression in and around Southend.
Kirsty McGill
Silent Book Club Southend
Introverts are very welcome! You can be as social as you like, or just sit and read comfortably.
Format:
6:30-7pm Arrive, order drinks/food, socialise if you’d like to
7-8pm Quiet reading
8-30pm Socialise (or just continue reading)
Free to attend!
The venue is Beaumont Coffee Club on Victoria Avenue.
Free parking after 6pm, great transport links (bus top right outside)
One of my favourite places in Southend is a wonderful book shop on Alexandra Street – Books-On-Sea, which has a wonderful selection of used and new books, and warm an welcoming staff.
Kate – Southend Book Club Chapter organiser
Seams by Sophie
Beth Evans
B.Evans Designs | Artist – Beth Evans
I started my art journey in 2019 where I began painting pet portraits, practicing on different surfaces is where my love for experimentation came about, and the idea of painting onto receipts had been created.
I launched my first range of receipts in 2021, and ever since have been constantly inspired in my everyday life and places I go.
I like to think my work has evolved into connecting people to the world around them.
Turning something destined for the bin into a piece of more significance to the world.
My favourite thing to do in Southend is grabbing a coffee and going for a walk. This is where a lot of my inspiration and reset takes place.
Natalie Holmes
Heidi J Masters
My favourite thing to do is writing, and my favourite place in Southend is Priory park.
Helle Johansen-Baker
Creativity has always been a constant in my life and the thing pulling me. With a career background in graphic design, photographer (
I’m mostly self-taught as an artist, and I focus on abstraction. I am a process-based artist and the “not knowing” of the creative process inspires me. Colour and shape is the foundation for my work and mark-making is very important to me.
I take my inspiration from weathered surfaces that show the passage of time; I’m drawn to the decay and peeling paint on walls, a bit of newspaper print peeking through, texture found in nature, shapes and how colours ‘sit’ next to each other, to make them ‘come alive’. I work both in acrylic medium and oil/coldwax on wood panel mainly.
I’m also part of an artist collective in Leigh on Sea Broadway – 70 The Broadway Gallery, where I exhibit my paintings with 6 other artists. We’re open Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Sound of the Hunderground
Judith Annakie-Eriksen
Craig Hallums
My favourite place/thing in Southend is a two-way tie between the area at the underside of the pier, with the gentle sound of the waves splashing around the base as the tide comes in, and the vibrant (and growing) art scene in the city.
The Calmers
TOGETHER WE ARE THE CALMERS
Southend on Sea’s original funk, soul and groove band.
Matt – saxophone player, singer, keyboard player, songwriter and a founder Calmer.
Ian – trumpet, flute and backing vocals in the band.
Milan – I play the guitar and love to dig out nice new music ideas and grooves with my fellow Calmers.
Gary – I play drums and my commitment to the Calmers is to maintain the groove.
Stephen – I write and sing, and pump out grooves, bass-ically.
Matt – Scott’s rehearsal studio tucked away in Southchurch where we rehearse every weekend and write and rehearse our music together. One of our favourite songs is called Rochford Avenue – it’s all about the road I live on.
Ian – The Cliff top gardens in Southend.
Milan – Chinnerys.
Gary – The Seven hotel, where we often have our after gig autopsy helped along with a beer or three.
Stephen – The Ironworks is a favourite, and the clifftop.
Amanda Jackson
I live in Westcliff on Sea and have my studio in Hadleigh Old Fire Station. I am a
member of the Two Tree Gallery cooperative in Leigh on Sea.
I am interested in littoral zones and edgelands of my home county, Essex, a low
lying watery world of saltmarsh, creeks, quarries and landfill, holes filled with
water.
Artist Statement
My paintings are re-imaginings of post-industrial locations where humanity’s
interventions are being consumed by nature. These places are often unloved and
overlooked, lonely and atmospheric and whilst walking, I immerse myself in this
space allowing the echoes of the past to seep under my skin. My work conveys
my affinity to this environment.
I explore ways of using paint to create a new vision of the landscape. Through
the manipulation of liquid pools of acrylic and oil paint on a surface, I exploit the
accidental, allowing forms to coalesce on the canvas and recreate the essence of
a watery place. For me using flowing paint replicates the ebb and flow of the
tidal habitat.
My favourite thing about Southend
Southend has so much to offer, including wonderful places to enjoy nature, from
our coastline to municipal parks and Belfairs Woodland.
I love walking our wonderful Estuary, especially Two Tree Island and
surrounding marshland. It is particularly beautiful during the winter months
when the cool eastern light sparkles and the wading birds calls ring across the
water. The light is ever changing, no day is the same and this wonderful
landscape feeds my creativity.
Oh Happy Creative
Inbellished
Hayley Sturniolo is the owner of Inbellished
Based in various locations around Essex.
‘We’re the trailblazers of pop-up permanent jewellery experiences in
Essex.
At Inbellished, we’ve redefined the way you discover and
connect with jewellery, creating immersive moments, securing eternal
connections with the special people in your life that transcend mere
accessories.’
My favourite place in Southend is the Seafront, when the hustle &
bustle of life can seem so loud, the calming beauty of the sea, the
sunrise or sunset across the horizon and the silver shimmer of the
still water can help quiet a busy mind.
Ben Holmes – BRune Art
I’m an abstract artist focusing on the use of bold colour who is on a mission to help other artists network and sell their art through events.
I also run the Essex Artists Facebook group.
My favourite place in Southend is hard to decide. If I have to pick one I guess the Alex.
Looseleaf
We’re an Emo/Alternative rock band called Looseleaf.
We’re from Essex originally, but we’re now a bit more spread out with one of us living in Brighton and the others in Essex.
We released our debut EP 7 track ‘Grey and Overgrown’ back in 2020 and a couple of singles shortly after. In the past few months, we’ve wrapped up recording our second 7 track EP which will be coming out sometime next year.
Square Wave
The Gardeners
For our favourite thing/place in Southend I couldn’t get one specific place but through asking all of our members we have landed on two: The Railway pub (when it was open) and the fountain park nearby.
Victoria Montgomery-Hodge
I’m a mixed media artist creating and selling my own original art, and I’m also a Creative Wellness Coach, running an array of workshops for all ages to help maintain mental wellbeing & restoration with the aid of meditation and mindful (art therapy style) creative activities.
Samantha Kaya
My favourite place in Southend is Shoebury East Beach. On a sunny summer’s day, looking out towards the water you can imagine you are anywhere in the world.
Karen Mitchell
Clare Foster
One of my favourite places in Southend is Chalkwell Park.
Kiki (Kristina) Reynolds
Being neurodivergent (ASD), one of my most prominent special interests is creating art. I mostly use mechanical pencils and watercolour paints to make cute, kitsch and a little bit strange art and illustrations, although I do love trying out lots of other mediums too.
Originally influenced by the video games and cartoons I liked as a child, I have now developed my own art style that continues to evolve over time.
I like to make affordable art prints and products for like-minded people to enjoy, and to help support my creativity.
ChloeDesigns
Chloe is a Graphic Designer from Southend-On-Sea specialising in Branding that helps businesses stand out from their competitors and leave a memorable impression on their customers. She offers a wide variety of design services where her work can range from fun, colourful and funky designs to corporate-based work.
“My favourite place in Southend is Old Leigh, I love going for sunset walks down there and rollerskating down the seafront”
Nisha Jacob
Ivory Dusk
My favourite thing about Southend is that it takes me back to my childhood! The community spirit and the way everyone can embrace their true self. And hot doughnuts on the pier whilst fending off the seagulls obviously!
Laura Hart
REBECCA COLEMAN
My favourite place in Southend is Cherry Orchard Country Park in Eastwood. I am fortunate to have a large green space on my doorstep and I walk my dog there as frequently as his little elderly legs can manage. I love the mixture of woodland, open space and muddy puddles!
NICOLA @ MRSMOSAICLOS
sense of time watching the tide there.
TRINKETS OF THE MOON
My favourite thing about Southend is the pier. I can see it from where I live at Canvey point and it is such a wonderful monument.
KATRINA @ Treandrawsit
The Tumbledryer Babies
My favourite thing about Southend is the sea air. I was born in Southend and couldn’t live anywhere but by the sea.
Taylor Makes – 3D Printing
LUCY DALEY
The sea-side is definitely my favourite thing about Southend, it was something I never fully appreciated until I moved away and lived in London and I couldn’t believe how much I took the space and sea for granted. Now I’m back, I often find myself feeling grateful for having the seaside right on my doorstep.
ISABEL BEE
VICTORIA CARLIN
The best part of Southend is the sea, especially in the winter. Give me a calm, cold swell and I’ll be in there with my swimming cossie and a smile. We have to ensure that we look after this precious part of our town.
MARY DOYLE – ArtSea
JO MEADOWS – NEON MAKES
‘I love the diversity of restaurants in Southend’
AMBER MIMI
RAT is an art gallery on Leigh road that showcases and sells all kinds of local art, RAT also is available to rent for exhibitions and pop ups!
TriggerBliss
Based in Southend, TriggerBliss (@triggeryourbliss) uses spoken word as an avenue to connect to the individual, to inspire healing, conscious thought, and conversation. This is achieved by incorporating spoken word into visuals, imagery, quotes, music, as well as performing live. TriggerBliss harnesses her creativity to spread mental health awareness, love, unity and encourage the authentic self.
Designed for the community to:
Platform Theatre
As a provider of quality and affordable youth theatre provision, we focus on developing both drama and associated life skills in a friendly and inclusive environment for young people, and those with additional needs, aged between 7 and 25 years.
Platform Theatre Arts is not just about youth theatre provision. We also offer a theatre company in training program, Platform Company, for performers over the age of 18, focusing on developing and deepening skills in a range of theatrical styles and mediums with regular public performances in both traditional and non-traditional theatrical spaces.
Indeed, we want our youth theatre programs to be as much about performance as development and want our young people to feel part of one big company of young performers, with opportunities to showcase both their individual group work and to work as part of a whole youth theatre team. We are always looking for opportunities to collaborate with other community and creative arts groups and professionals to connect the work we produce with the wider community.
We offer the opportunity for our youth theatre assistants to gain training and experience to become facilitators in their own right and so as we grow, our team grows with us.
Our youth theatres run over Tuesdays and Wednesdays and take place at Kings Road URC, Crowstone Rd, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 8LH.
If you would like any more information on what we offer or opportunities to work with us, please do get in contact by emailing platformtheatrearts@gmail.com. Equally, you can sign up to one of our classes by filling out an application form HERE.
LAST OF THE LIZARDMEN
THE SECRET ART CLUB
We are Michelle Goldman and Ali Penn, and we are based in Leigh-on -Sea and Westcliff.
We run an art club and supper club each month.
The art club is for people of all abilities, delving into different techniques and mediums.
The supper club is for people to get together exploring menus, recipes and tastes from around the world.
Our favourite place to visit in Southend is the Beecroft Gallery, after a lovely long walk on the pier.
HUMBLESLUG
My favourite place in Southend…
DEARCURVES
Laura Cole (Business development and creative) is from Southend on Sea.
Founded in 2013, Dearcurves is the go to brand for contemporary, minimalistic plus size women’s wear. Renowned for its quarterly creation of capsule range, Dearcurves wholly embodies quality, and continues to reinvent the plus size silhouette.Our size range is UK12- UK30
Favourite thing about Southend… Absolutely LOVE the Southend Pier
MOO
My name is Mischa, aka Moo and I’m based in Southend.
I’m a Singer/Songwriter/Spoken Word Artist and drummer. I write with my Producer Step Dad Julian Littman about being in Recovery from Process Addictions.
I’ve recently been diagnosed with Autism too! I think it’s important to discuss these topics.
My favourite thing about Southend is The Ironworks on the high street. I go in there for coffee, food and chats with the staff (they’re all so lovely)… or just to be around people when I feel lonely. I also attend gigs, art exhibitions and workshops there. I did my first gig there and have started to feel a part of the community. Met like-minded people and such. I’d be lost without it now.
MANDALA STONE CERAMICS
I have lived around Southend nearly all my life and my favourite thing is… the beach, has to be. I swim all year and love it!
JENNIE SHARMAN-COX
I work from my home studio in Westcliff-on-sea
Working predominately in three dimensions using a variety of media, I draw on historical references, figurative art and sacred imagery, to create fictional worlds for the viewer to enter and inhabit.
I’m Delighted to be showing in the Beecroft Art Gallery…..For the Double Take exhibition alongside Simon Monk.
Both artists are presenting a body of new and recent work as well as selections from their studio archives.
JAIME BREWARD
I am a Fine Artist, based in Southend, working in mixed media.
My paintings often reflect my passion for the sea and the beach. I feel very lucky to have both so close by and draw inspiration from local seascapes and further afield on my travels.
I regard my work as a form of realism involving elements of sepia and gilding. Light plays an integral role in the pieces produced.
I love where I live, and one of my favourite things to do is visit Old Leigh early in the morning, for seafood with a superb view.
ROSIES MORBID ODDITIES
I love where I live, and one of my favourite things to do is visit Old Leigh early in the morning, for seafood with a superb view.
BEAR AND THE RAINBOW
DAVID KIRKMAN
YES TODAY
PIECES OF THE PEACH
FREYA NEIGHBOUR
Bold, unique accessories made from reclaimed materials with 100% recycled packaging
SS9ART
“My favourite place in Southend are the gardens by the Cliff’s Pavillion. I love roller skating down there but also how peaceful they are in the mornings! They’re so beautiful and have a lovely view of the seaside too.”
FLOWERS ARE PRETTY
A collaboration of artists exploring the above title, part of the proceeds of bids will support the work of trust links charity.
EDIGUMI
Sylak Ravenspine
The Essex Ink Company
Although I live in Basildon, my artistic practice centres around Southend.
“Apart from mudlarking when the tide is out, I appreciate wondering the backstreets, just off the beaten track. I particularly love Alexandra street, former site of the Empire Theatre and now a bohemian quarter.”
DAISY M
DANEKA ACKHAVONG
Daneka is a singer/songwriter from Southend on sea, exploring heartbreak and mental issues combined with heavy Rock guitar and soulful, emotional vocals. She doesn’t like labelling herself as one genre, due to stereotypes of Black skinned artist.
She likes to experiment with Grunge guitar chord progressions, combining Grunge with Blues. This is shown through her soulful but heart wrenching vocals, displaying rawness and vulnerability when she sings. You may think Daneka, is a one-man band, however, Daneka, has lots of layers to her creativity and loves to work with other new, aspiring musicians and people.
She has formed a band, consisting of Lead guitar, played by Richard Daintree and Drums played by Herbie Buckley-Robinson. These band members have helped shaped DANEKA, by adding their own creativity and flow to the song’s she has written.
LEMON GROVE LETTERING
THE LION IN WINTER
The play is set around the Christmas of 1183, and it’s a tale about political and personal turmoil among the royal family of Henry II of England, his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine, their children, and their guests, they are a dysfunctional family.
There is treachery and intrigue around who will inherit the throne, played with humour and drama, the spotlight is shone on the foibles of an ancient family with very modern problems.
PATRICK MORIARTY
FRECKLED ACORN DESIGN
“My favourite place in Southend is the pier. I love the little train!”
SS9ART
I’m Jakub and I started painting at a very early age. I remember being inspired by my Dad, whose playful attitude helped me to feel that drawing is both fun and adventure. I particularly loved the feeling of putting pencil to paper, I was happy to draw anything: landscapes, details, my dogs. Sketching always felt calming: I was not interested in communicating some hidden message or view, I simply loved the process.
Sometime later, in my teenage years, I focussed on pursuing a normal career. I spent a few years studying and working the standard 9-5 (more like 7-6). Alongside my full-time job some 20 years ago I took up photography, a form of art that has taken me on many private and professional adventures, and I learned many things during this time, but my creative side still felt a bit overlooked.
One day, I needed something to take me away from the busy schedule. I spontaneously reached up for a pad and made, what now feels like, a to jump back into the art world after a lengthy break. I can see now that the need to take up sketching had been brewing in me for the best part of the last decade: one of the reasons that convinced me that Leigh-on-Sea is the place to live was its understated architectural beauty and breath-taking landscape of the estuary. Most of my sketches take an inspiration from the architecture and scenery I see on my rounds through the town, and feature a few Leigh-on-Sea landmarks. Some drawings take me back to the town I grew up in and places I travelled to.
I would be delighted if some of my drawings would invite the members of my community to look with fresh eyes at a building they had been walking past and taking for granted for many years. I feel passionate about making hidden gems of Leigh architecture visible again. I also enjoy the challenge of a commission, the pleasure of engaging with and capturing the emotion of love, joy or nostalgia for my customers’ special places, past or future.
“My favourite thing about Southend is…Being an outsider allows me to see Southend from a slightly different perspective. I can see place with huge potential of creative energy. There are so many different initiative which make you feel that art is not something reserved for fancy galleries, but it’s something what makes you feel better and allow you to be a better person. C’mon Southend you can do it!!!
LUCY GOULD
TIM KEECH – TEA AND ORANGES
We organise, book and promote a live music night in Southend-on-Sea. A night that strives to put on something very interesting and different in the town to what is currently on offer. We love elctro, DIY, Lo Fi, House Music, guitar bands, Indie, 60’s, Jazz, folk, world, ambient – you name it and we will have something we like about it and will have DJ’s playing a diverse range of sounds every night.
Upcoming we have Oliver Cherer, Plantman, Sonic Eyes, Alfie Firmin, Gwenifer Raymond, Wet Man, Warm Boys as well as some more very exciting acts that are very nearly in the diary.
I invite all the Creative Spotlight readers to come on down to one of our nights one Saturday and have a taste of Tea and Oranges – you won’t regret it..
“I really like the cycle path all along the seafront from the Garrison East Beach to Chalkwell Station. On a beautiful Summer’s day a cycle all the way up and down with some music on, following the Estuary is just bliss. All parts of our seafront have a different character and different kinds of people too. Its all very interesting.”
UMAYMAH
Platform Theatre
As a provider of quality and affordable youth theatre provision, we focus on developing both drama and associated life skills in a friendly and inclusive environment for young people, and those with additional needs, aged between 7 and 25 years.
Platform Theatre Arts is not just about youth theatre provision. We also offer a theatre company in training program, Platform Company, for performers over the age of 18, focusing on developing and deepening skills in a range of theatrical styles and mediums with regular public performances in both traditional and non-traditional theatrical spaces.
Indeed, we want our youth theatre programs to be as much about performance as development and want our young people to feel part of one big company of young performers, with opportunities to showcase both their individual group work and to work as part of a whole youth theatre team. We are always looking for opportunities to collaborate with other community and creative arts groups and professionals to connect the work we produce with the wider community.
We offer the opportunity for our youth theatre assistants to gain training and experience to become facilitators in their own right and so as we grow, our team grows with us.
Our youth theatres run over Tuesdays and Wednesdays and take place at Kings Road URC, Crowstone Rd, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 8LH.
If you would like any more information on what we offer or opportunities to work with us, please do get in contact by emailing platformtheatrearts@gmail.com. Equally, you can sign up to one of our classes by filling out an application form HERE.
Jennifer Walther – Rust Hall
” Favourite place in Southend..? I love to take a stroll along the pier.”
SEASHORE9
No Potential is a creative project, a product of Jay Sota’s art practice. Where art meets street. Using vintage finds and earth positive clothing, it is designed and hand finished in Southend on Sea.
“My favourite thing about Southend… I enjoy going for a walk at gunners park, particularly by the graffiti wall looking out at sea. “
SEASHORE9
My name is Paula and I run SeaShore9, and live in Leigh on sea.
“I love living here with the beach nearby and love that the Southend area has so many creative and artistic things going on”
JENNY SEXTON
She has a remarkable story to tell. She found that losing her memory uncovered a hidden artistic flair. Her compositions express natural emotion and have a deep resonance with both the painter and the viewer. She is greatly influenced by vibrant colour and radiant light. Her work can be described as ‘realism with an expressive flourish’.
She is often asked to paint posthumous portraits because she somehow manages to capture the real spirit and essence of a person from just a photograph.
‘When accepting a commission and planning a painting, natural expression is very important to me. Due to an episode of memory loss a few years ago, I can only recall past events very selectively. Consequently, I’m now really conscious of preserving what I have left and I try to be more ‘present’ in every new experience. I try to fully experience things whilst they are happening and I try to ‘feel’ every emotion. This whole experience has helped me to find my ‘artistic voice’ because I now place emotion at the heart of my work.’
Jenny is now accepting commissions for Christmas.
You can see her work on Instagram
WYRD ESSEX
MARKET | WORKSHOPS | GIG
We have a range of local artists selling all sorts of wares; Jewellery, candles, homewares, sustainable products and clothing!
Patch making workshop – express yourself with your own hand crafted patch!
It Takes a Village – build your mini house with recyclable materials and create a mini village with us!
After the subculteral market we have our alternative musicians performing live.
It’s an event to celebrate individuality, subcultures and creativity local to Essex.
Organised by 10 young people on a brand new course from the Agency of Creative Production.
EMMY LOUISE BATES
A two-day festival celebrating the vibrant culture, diversity, and community of
Southend and its new city status. Come along and enjoy performances, workshops
and hands on crafts for all the family.
A free, non-profit community event with cultural performances alongside make-and-
create sessions that will give the public the chance to decorate and create
instruments, jewellery and art. This is a collaboration with local community and
cultural groups to celebrate the diversity within Southend and its new city status. A
chance to see and take part in activities: Bollywood Dance with Kriti, Brazilian Tunes
with Yuri and Fernanda, Leigh Tango dance performance, Flamenco music with Hey
Jesus and martial arts with Brazilarte.
Crafting and activities will include henna tattoos, Rangoli sand art, making bracelets,
decorating pebbles and creating drums and shakers from recyclable materials.
This festival is perfect for experiencing the diversity Southend has to offer and a
chance to meet new people. Plenty of activities for children and grown-ups at
Twenty-One, café, bar and gallery, just by the pier, and serving hot and cold drinks
and food throughout the day.
For more information, check out our Instagram | Facebook page:
SOUTHCHURCH ART TRAIL
MUSICIANS MEET-UP
A strictly informal networking event for pro and semi-pro musicians living in and around Southend! Come with your questions! Come with your woes! Come with your best gig tales!
When? 7th April – 9.30am til 11.30am
Where? Pulp Kitchen, 21 Alexandra Street, Southend, SS1 1BX
Ticket admits one.
Includes…
1 Hot Drink (including all the fun ones like cappacinos and macchiatos…)
1 slice of cake OR hash brown bag
PASCALE SYMONS – LA PETITE ETOILE
“Favourite thing about Southend is I love having breakfast down the arches on the seafront!”
COPPA TOOTH
“Southend! I would like to give a shoutout to the Piehole Pizza team for being such wonderful people, Blue Root for the dope artwork and Indie Rock for bringing more to our community.”
EMMY LOUISE BATES
“My favorite thing to do in Southend is rummage in Leigh broadways abundance of charity shops to find treasures, and having a dunk in the sea!”
LITTLE KNOWN STUDIO
“My favourite place in the area is either two tree island or the pier. Love being near the water. “
BOOK AND BEER EVENT
Shouting about our wonderful readers from our first Book and Beer event at Hoppily in Leigh on Sea!
Phil Burdett | Southend Poetry Group | Tessa Buckley | Lynden Wade | Iain Mitchell | Izzy Bee| Angie Bailey | Paul Schiernecker
HAPPY HORIZONS – VIEW FROM A DITCH
I’m Rick Wade, and ‘View From A Ditch’ was basically a lockdown project where I recorded some songs I’d written over the years. I persuaded a few friends to contribute vocals and drums and built the songs up until they sounded like I wanted. Another friend offered to produce the songs so much file sharing between here and Somerset and we eventually had an album!
It’s me on guitar and bass, drum programming and some vocals; with Vicki, Simon and Philip on vocals and Jon on drums on a couple of tracks.
The style varies; it’s guitar-based with influences from folk and electronica and a slight 90s indie feel in places.
I’m based in Benfleet and the other guys and gals are from Hadleigh and Westcliff (and one in Taunton but we won’t worry about him!)
“As to my favourite thing about Southend…..that’s tricky, there’s lots of things I like. The coastline and woods are great, and I really like the craft beer scene that’s spring up over the last few years. “
SOUTHEND VOX
Who are we?
EVC is for anyone interested in singing and making music. We‘re a vocal and music school for children and young people, based in Central Southend. Activities include singing tuition, songwriting, production and how to use technology in music making, the skills required to join and be part of a band and performance opportunities for those who want them. In addition, we offer courses for adults who want to learn to sing and write songs.
We have two main objectives: to provide a space for young vocalists and singers to come together to express themselves, develop their skills, improve their confidence and find their tribe …
And …
… to remove the financial barriers associated with music making activities, for low income households via our student bursar programme.
Right now, we are getting ready for our classes launching in September which include an Adult learn to sing course, Vocal Tech classes for ages 10-14 years and Mini Pops for those aged 5-9 years as well our new Group Guitar course from ages 7-16. You can find out more, including information on all our September classes here – www.essexvocalcoaching.com
We have also partnered with Ewans Music Trust to create our bursary programme to provide financial support to children from low income families, you can find more information on that here
Southend is a vortex for creatives. We have endless reams of talent and creativity and have produced many successful musicians. In normal times, you can go out to a good quality gig of some description, most nights of the week.
JENNY SEXTON
She has a remarkable story to tell. She found that losing her memory uncovered a hidden artistic flair. Her compositions express natural emotion and have a deep resonance with both the painter and the viewer. She is greatly influenced by vibrant colour and radiant light. Her work can be described as ‘realism with an expressive flourish’.
She is often asked to paint posthumous portraits because she somehow manages to capture the real spirit and essence of a person from just a photograph.
‘When accepting a commission and planning a painting, natural expression is very important to me. Due to an episode of memory loss a few years ago, I can only recall past events very selectively. Consequently, I’m now really conscious of preserving what I have left and I try to be more ‘present’ in every new experience. I try to fully experience things whilst they are happening and I try to ‘feel’ every emotion. This whole experience has helped me to find my ‘artistic voice’ because I now place emotion at the heart of my work.’
Jenny is now accepting commissions for Christmas.
You can see her work on Instagram
NICOLA OSBORNE
LYNDEN WADE
Lynden is a writer, weaving local folklore and landscape into short stories for anthologies and ezines.
The picture here is the original sketch by Emma Howitt for Lynden’s story “The Web and the Wildwood”, in The Forgotten and the Fantastical 3. Below is links to stories you can read for free, and an introduction to some fine ezines on the web.
TEMPORAL HORIZONS – THEATRE COMPANY
“One of my personal favourite places in Southend is the Forum library in the town centre. The reason is that it is an open welcoming environment for people of all walks of life in the community, books, a great place for young children to go meet other kids and learn. Where Uni students can go to work for hours and rooms where young theatre groups like myself can work and develop our craft.
MIDNIGHT OUTCASTS
Midnight Outcasts are a local youth rock/indie band.
The boys met and formed the band at the Saturday Music School they all attend with Essex Vocal Coaching.
They started playing together at their ‘Join the band’ session and immediately hit it off (personally and musically!)
Midnight Outcasts are: Joe, Moss, Sam and Finn and are all aged between 11 and 13.
So far, they’ve been invited to play a year 6 festival themed leavers party and recently played their end of term gig at local venue Infinity Showbar, in Southend.
The boys are looking forward to spending the next term learning new material for more gigs and have recently started writing songs together too. To find out more about the band and follow their journey, check them out here!
ABBYS ART ATELIER
DARREN GODDARD
I’m a local cartoonist from Southend, I’ve had many different jobs In my lifetime but my passion has always been in art, especially cartoons.
Since the first lockdown I got my pencil and paper out again, first time for many years, and started doing cartoons about the situation, no food on shelves, no toilet rolls or eggs…
I have a dog called Purdy, so she was my source of exercise and eventually became a character in my cartoons. She chased squirrels and one particular squirrel kept teasing Purdy, who I named Bob.
There are several other characters, Steven seagull, Bazil bee, Michel Escargot the snail and more.
So, I self published 3 books “My Ludicrous life in lockdown , My Ludicrous life continues and The Ludicrous Bob squad
The local council gave me the job of creating a safety awareness poster for bus stops as well.
Recently I’ve self published a kids ABC book too and I’m now working on a Anti litter campaign for the town
SOUTHEND VOX
We are Southend Vox, a fun & sociable choir for adults in and around the Southend Area.
We sing an array of music from pop, soul, gospel and more!
Always welcoming of new members, we’ve spent the last 15 months rehearing on Zoom but are now back singing in-person together. We are particularly looking for men to bolster our baritone section.
Our website is: www.southendvox.com and you can get a really good feel of who we are and what we do, as well as get in touch to join!
KRISTINA DEMOU
Kristina is a UK based international performer and vocal coach. Having studied music theatre at the Royal Academy of Music, London, her versatility as a vocalist has taken her all over Europe and back again, performing on some of London’s finest stages including Wembley Stadium, The Royal Albert Hall and Her Majesty’s Theatre.
Singing backing vocals for Sir Elton John live on BBC television, singing for artists such as Anastacia, Emma Bunton and Duncan James, Kristina’s talents have seen her work extensively within theatre but also on cruise ships and performing live on television on numerous occasions. Kristina is currently performing with Wonder Of Uke and also can be heard on the original cast recording of new musical The Art of Skipping, due out this month.
Kristina also has her own vocal coaching business and her passion for mentoring has meant she has been able to share those skills and experiences with many teenagers, inspiring and coaching them to success on their journey to getting into top drama schools and establishments.
FLORENCE GEARY PHOTOGRAPHY
I’m a keen and enthusiastic photographer who enjoys capturing a moment in time. I’m lucky to live in such a diverse location full of natural beauty, countryside, coastal towns and in close proximity to city life. Nature and landscapes are my usual passions however enjoying my local coastline I often find myself snapping away.
I am based in Essex and have been an amateur photographer for many years, and more recently with some success. I currently have a few of my photographs on display in Southend as part of the Hare about Town event raising money for Havens Hospice. September 21 is looking to be an exciting month for me, continuing my support for Havens Hospice I will have a stall at the Hares about Town farewell event, my work will also be on display as part of an exhibition in The Art Place in Chelmsford. There is also a surprise that I am excited to reveal, however have been sworn to secrecy!
Please follow my social accounts to find out more.
Instagram | Facebook | Web
LUNA AND SOL
FOXX AND WALLIS
“Organic cotton children’s clothing in a range of style for both babies and toddlers”
SARAH SIGSTON – ARTIST IN THE ATTIC
My name is Sarah Sigston and I am the founder of Artist in the Attic in Rayleigh.
I have been actively creating art since I was a young child and attended Thurrock and Southend Art colleges after leaving Billericay school In 1983.
I work in every type of media be it acrylic, watercolour, fluid art or resin. Some of the recent art I’ve created includes; sea glass and pebble paintings and wooden fluid art fish in multi colours.
Most recently I have specialised in resin which although a particularly challenging medium, can create stunning results when success is achieved. I have used this medium alongside very old scaffold boards to recreate images of the sea. I’ve also started using the technique on furniture and sustainable Bamboo serving platters.
I spent a large part of my early life in Cornwall which is where the attachment of the seascapes originated from. Nowadays, I continue to regularly visit Old Leigh for inspiration. I love not only the sea but the old fishing nets,the rusty chains, the cogs and wheels.
Another strong connection I have to Old Leigh is the Boatyard restaurant, when I worked for the art department in a Southend school, myself and the sixth form students painted the walkway that goes through from the front to back decking of the restaurant.
My work can be viewed on my Instagram account and purchased via my Etsy shop
CONTRARY MARY
All the designs are inspired by and named after influential women. I have always had a love for vintage and pre-loved items and clothing. I am a fully committed charity shop rummager! After my children were born I became more aware of the impact we are having on the earth and tried to make small changes to our lifestyle in order to live a more sustainable life and create as little waste as possible. I love using fabrics that have had a previous life, and take great joy in seeing the transformation from something no longer used, into a beautiful piece of clothing.
DANIEL KEEBLE
BRAD ACTON POTTERY
I love making pots and I can’t wait to make more.
ROSIE HOLMAN – SINGER
After finishing a performance degree in 2010, Rosie (she/her) fell into a band straight away and now has 10 years performing professionally under her belt. She’s played in pubs, clubs, theatres, venues, back gardens and kitchen diners, on boats and under bridges, for intimate gatherings and festival size audiences! Career highlights include singing at 100 Club, London as the frontwoman of a Led Zep tribute band and performing for the Canary Wharf Summer Sessions as part of an acoustic duo in front of around 2000 people. They also include having a dance-off with a guest at a client’s house party whilst performing… (it was declared a draw if you’re interested.) When she’s not singing Jazz, she’s listening to heavy rock, indie, house, garage, soul divas and trying to figure out what new music she likes.
“My favourite place in Southend is the seafront but more particularly Chinnerys, the seafront music venue. I have so many amazing memories of gigs and nights that involved friends and cider and black! It doesn’t hurt that my partner sound engineers here either! Important milestones in our lives happened at Chinnerys and I will always love the place and the people behind it.”
THE TIME POD – COMEDY PODCAST
The positive pod opening podcast
#whatwouldyoupod
A comedy gameshow presenting pitching characters
Bringing back the old or taking back the new
With a post show wrap up as to who wins wins
The podcast’s producers are all studying Creative Producing, Theatre and Short Film, at East 15 Acting School, part of the University of Essex
#nostalgia #whatwouldyoubringback #whatwouldyoupod
“Best place in Southend is ‘the view from the pier: sea, the beach and Adventure Island Theme Park’, all in a blink of the eye”
EMMA GRACIE – WRITER
In 1997, just before I turned 16, I was accidentally flung into the world of healthcare. This unexpected journey lit a fire in me that would carry me through the 23 years of nursing that followed. I trained at Southend Hospital and have worked in various settings in the area since then ranging from nursing homes, a hospice, GP surgeries, the community and most recently a school. My nursing career has been varied and I’ve witnessed births, deaths and all that lies in between. I’ve been exhausted, heartbroken and sexually assaulted. I’ve anguished over children who aren’t my own and I have battled my own illness that forced me to change places from nurse to patient. I wanted to remember the many people who have affected me so started making little notes of them and the lessons they taught me. I thought maybe my children might like to read about them one day. Then, last summer, because other people started showing an interest in my stories I started a blog where I wrote about my many experiences. During lockdown I re-worked my blog into my nursing memoir Blue Girl: Nursing Beyond the Ward. After talking to a friend who knows about the book-world I decided to self-publish it on Amazon in July.
I’d love you to meet them too and share the crazy, sad, shocking, moving and hilarious experiences that made me Blue Girl.
If you’d like to follow me you can find me on Instagram and Twitter on my Facebook and my website www.bluegirlnurse.co.uk
“My favourite places in Southend are Chalkwell Park and the conservation area. If i need to clear my head a walk around the park or looking out to sea fro Prittlewell Square does the trick. So peaceful!”
SR LOOPS
SRLoops is a music producer based in Westcliff-on-Sea in Essex. Specialising in electronic ambient music production, as well as being influenced by lofi sounds, SR produces the best of both dance and atmospheric sound scapes.
Latest song “Reasons” was released on 26/02/2021. Listen now!
“My favourite thing about Southend is it’s a place that facilitates many different facets of art and full of creatives that are innovative and keen to collaborate and create something new.”
VICKI – HAND CRAFTED FLOWERS
“My favourite place in Southend.. I has to be the seafront itself.. it’s a constantly changing place no matter what the weather and it’s been a place that has saved me at times over lockdown! Being able to walk down and stand in a space that just clears my mind is a very precious thing. “
THE PENNY ANTICS
The Penny Antics are a two piece Punk/Grunge band! We’ve been gigging around for five years now and are developing an ever-expanding fanbase. We have a ten song album out, a five song EP, a six song live set and an eight song remix album. We’ve composed a setlist that can span well over thirty minutes if needs be and we’re known for our unpredictable and energetic performances where we play each set as though it were our last; in both practices and gigs!
We’re currently promoting the premiere of the new music video to our remix song ‘Nobody Cares’ which was released on 26/01/2021 on our YouTube channel. The video’s shot entirely in stop motion animation with a touch of green screening and its concept is loosely based on classic video game genres. i.e. platform games, puzzle games etc.
“My favourite place in Southend would be The Railway Hotel as it’s an absolutely beautiful building that’s run by lovely people and has the best variety of live music and crowds!”
BECKIE MARGARET
Having spent the last 12 months writing and recording her debut album, Beckie Margaret returns on the 26th March with a soulful new single ‘FF’, the third track to be taken from her forthcoming debut album.
After emerging in 2017 with her debut single ‘Cars & Catacombs’ which was universally acclaimed, many prophesied the arrival of a major new talent.
With the help of producer, mix engineer & drummer Rees Broomfield and guitarist Daryl Tattoo, Beckie Margaret has since released a succession of ever-evolving singles and has taken her sound to the next level.
Beckie Margaret’s new single ‘FF’ is a mystery filled slow jam full of yearning emotion and crisp production.
Beckie Margaret describes the release of her new single:
“FF is a self-reflective statement, mixed with the voicing of modern themes about allowing vulnerability and love. The disappointment of expectations and pedestals from people that have let you down emotionally, yet you still feel rich from filling your own cup.”
Inspired by Bob Marley’s quote:
“I don’t have that type of richness. My richness is life, forever.”
‘FF’ is out on 26th March 2021 on Southend on Sea based label Cool Thing Records.
Listen to ‘FF’: Here
ALI – MAKE IT MINE THEATRE
It runs on this ethos.
“The idea behind the company name is to simply take a script and bring something different to the audience; to make it my own.”
MIM Theatre is a female lead company with myself in the thick of it. I do everything from the production side, right up to the promotion.
MIM came about in 2018 as a small fringe company residing in Surrey, and the company had their debut in the Rose Theatre Studios with an original play titled ‘As The Pendulum Swings’, written by a local Chelmsfordian playwright.
MIM then started running small writing workshops and performances in the Surrey area until returning home to Chelmsford, which is their main base of operations.
During the pandemic MIM went online and developed their shows from there.
Each year MIM Theatre runs a ‘writers lead’ project, which allows people to get creative with a piece of paper and develop something new. Their work is then given to a team of actors and then the magic hits your screens in two/three weeks time. Last year was a series titled ‘If I could tell’ based on the conversations you wished you could have with your younger self, which raised money for the BAATN, the Black African, Asian Therapy Network.
To rid ourselves of January blues, ‘Blossom’ kicks off our season which is raising funds for ActionAidUK.
That’s MIM in a nutshell. We work on an equal rights and opportunity basis as we like to think of the company as a family.
On Instagram and Twitter, you can find us @MIMTheatre
On Facebook, you can find us with @MIMtheatrep
About our upcoming show; “Blossom”
I‘ll be straight, it’s about the female reproductive system and just how messy it can be. This play is for those who are sick of being told “It’s just your time of the month” and to “get on with it.” It’s for those who are terrified that their body is misbehaving and they’re the only one to go through it. It’s also for those who wish to learn more about periods and the nasty side effects you can get, such as PCOS and Endometriosis.
Blossom is a verbatim piece of theatre, which means real life stories are fed into the play and given to the four women leading the cast.
This informative, quick witted play is raising money for Actionaid, a non-profit organisation that fights against period poverty. Our just giving page is right here.
“My favourite spot in Southend has to be Two Tree Island. Before the pandemic many good ideas were formed around that area!”
KATIE GAVRIEL – ARTIST
“My favourite place in Southend is the sea front at night when people are spilling in and out of the arcades and pubs and bringing our town to life 💛”
CLARE BREWSTER – ARTIST
Based in south Essex, I take inspiration from my local environment to create intricate, detailed pencil drawings.
My focus is to capture elements of flora and fauna from the places I have grown up and visit frequently.
Protecting the environment and advocating for endangered species within the UK is very important to me.
I am always looking for new ways my art can be used to inspire and motivate change.
Website: clarebrewster.com | Instagram | Facebook
“My favourite place in Southend is the Seafront. When I need to escape from whatever is causing me stress I catch the train to Leigh and I walk to Southend pier. I like to sit and watch the sunset, listen to the waves and sketch. An added bonus is a beer at the Chinneries before I head home. As soon as lockdown lifts this will be my first outing”
EMMA DEVINE – ARTIST
Emma Devine is a local Artist who is inspired by Folk and Fairy Tales alongside other stories of strange, distant and bewildering lands. Her original artwork is all hand drawn and many of her original framed pieces, alongside limited edition Giclee prints, greeting cards and illustrated tote bags can be seen and purchased via Facebook, Instagram, or Etsy. She also welcomes commissions.
You can win one of Emma’s tote bags by entering our winter competition – details here!
“My favourite place in Southend is Two Tree Island…A fabulous little Haven of peace and nature and a wonderful place to walk and refuel the creative juices.”
AVRIL – SEASIDE CIRCUS
Ahoy!
Im Avril (the one without a beard in the snap) from Seaside Circus based in Westcliff, Essex. I set up Seaside Circus after training in circus skills in London and working in Slovakia teaching circus. When I came back to Essex I thought to myself, we could do with a bit of that in our neck of the woods. The reason I chose to set up Seaside Circus was because circus really allows anyone to be able to join in, have fun and learn a new skill.
We want to show how accessible this art form is regardless of any restrictions you may have in your life. Circus can be used in such a powerful, yet non-invasive way, meaning great things can happen. No matter your age, mobility or limitations we are 110 % confident we can teach YOU a circus skill.
We offer our services in the form of birthday/celebration parties, festival/fete workshops, one off workshops and weekly classes. I have personally taught within carehomes and with those with dementia, children and adults with learning disabilities, wheelchair users, visually impaired, social groups, community groups, sensory circus sessions, family circus sessions and more!
So why not come check us out! You will be pleased to know to learn circus skills you can use everyday household items!! Want to know more then follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Avril I’d love you to meet them too and share the crazy, sad, shocking, moving and hilarious experiences that made me Blue Girl.
If you’d like to follow me you can find me on Instagram and Twitter on my Facebook and my website www.bluegirlnurse.co.uk
“My favourite thing about Southend has to be the pier. It’s real staple in my childhood. My dad was a firefighter and was at the second pier fire which sadly lost the bowling alley at the end of the pier. And we actually have a burnt bowling ball from that fire! Ssshhh don’t tell anyone….”
FRANCES MURRAY – BLABS
“Casual Sex is an ode to the dilemmas of single life. We’ve all been in a situation where you start seeing someone and there’s an ambiguity around where you stand with them and it all becomes a bit messy. This song is about as honest and blunt as you can get. I love the weight of the line “Casual sex makes me feel depressed”, I feel like it sets the sarcastic and self destructive tone of the song. It’s about knowing that the person you’re seeing doesn’t give a shit about you but still seeing them anyway even though it makes you feel crap. Instrumentally and lyrically I love it, it’s one of my favourite songs I’ve written to date; honest, hard-hitting & hooky.”
Listen to it Here !
“There is no reason why she cannot become the next big, big name in rock music.” – BBC Music Introducing In Essex – Ollie Winiberg, July 2020
“My favourite place in Southend is Stoked vegan BBQ or Dough Yos! Two Places with the best vegan food!”
DELMEZA – LUMI ESSENCE
My favourite place in Southend is Leigh Cliffs East overlooking Chalkwell Bay. It is such a beautiful spot in all seasons and tides”
EDMUND ATHELSTAN POLLINGTON – ILLUSTRATOR
“I have quite a few favorites in Southend, but I would like to shed some light on Books on Sea; a very nice book shop deserving of some love.”
EMILIE DALLOWAY – ETCH CLOTHING
A costume maker at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London, before the pandemic, I am passionate about fabric, sewing, and storytelling.
As well as making masks to help us all stay safe & stylish, I have been using my sewing skills to design and make some unique, high quality clothes and accessories. These are practical and versatile every day garments, with a vintage twist. Each piece is unique. I have designed them hoping they can bring their owners some joy, in the same way that theatre does to its audience !
All the items are handmade in my studio in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, from material sourced locally. Whenever possible I buy from other local small businesses, and use fabric that would otherwise become landfill. By buying something from me you will be helping the environment and supporting local businesses, as well as acquiring something unique !
I have a range of off the peg dungarees, masks and tote bags available on my Etsy shop. I also make dresses to order, as well as stage costumes.
I also welcome commissions so if you have a specific design in mind, or if you like what you see but can’t find your size or colour, feel free to get in touch – I love to hear your feedback & ideas !2
“My favourite thing about Southend is being by the sea, and I love its indie shops. My favourites are Utopia coffee shop and Books on Sea”
ANNE ODEKE – ACTOR
Having spent most of my life in or around Southend, as well as having taught at a local school for many years before becoming an actor, I truly regard the area as home.
In my acting career, I have been fortunate enough to play at a number of theatres across the country, including Shakespeare’s Globe, The Birmingham Rep, The Nuffield and even The Palace Theatre right here in Southend. Currently I am working with The RSC on The Winter’s Tale, which we hope to open at The Royal Shakespeare Theatre in the Spring of 2021.
See all here credits here: Spotlight: ANNE ODEKE
“I’m a foodie, and feel we are so lucky to have such incredible cafes and restaurants in the area. I also think it’s more important than ever to ‘support local’ – so for me, as long as I’m in/getting takeaway from some eatery in the area and devouring food and drink that’s made with love, I’m happy.”
A CAUSE IN DISTRESS
Liam Watkins, Owen Foran & Dominic Robinson make up the Southend based trio.
Their single ‘Modern Commerce’ was released on January 22nd via, Southend on Sea based record label, Cool Thing Records.
This project would be a strange proposition in any other time period as it is the sound of 3 friends trapped inside a digital landscape; consisting of an enigmatic visual artist, a prodigal singer-songwriter and an ambitious beat-maker. These three imaginary boys fuse throbbing WARP Records style electronic undercurrents to soaring frantic futurism through their vocals and instrumentation.
“modern commerce is about learning to open up about one’s flaws throughout the therapy process, in an attempt to understand and make peace with the person that you are”
Listen to it Here !
“…if their debut is as good as that they can only be sitting on more gems to reveal to the world…” – BBC Music Introducing In Essex – Jake Peach, August 2020
GAZ DE VERE – PHOTOGRAPHER
Gaz de Vere is a Southend based Socialist photographer and activist, working mainly in a photojournalist style.
He has been documenting community events and protests for several years and 2020 has offered many challenges, not least the Black Lives Matter movement which has both drawn people together and cast divisions between them in almost equal measure.
You can see his photographs here
“My favourite place in Southend is anywhere that sells pink gin!”
EMMA GRACIE – WRITER
“My favourite place in Southend is enjoying a blustery sea front walk with my partner.”
ROUTES THEATRE COMPANY
Rachel Triggs is a creative arts educator who lives and breathes creative learning. By day she manages Southend Theatre’s Community and Education Department and in her own time she has founded her own Theatre in Education Group, Routes Theatre Company.
Frustrated by outdated misconceptions about the value of the arts and the viability of it being a realistic sector to work in, Rachel founded Routes Theatre Company to work with and for young people from Essex. Routes Theatre Company believes that theatre is a tool for social change and that participation within the arts can help young people grow.
Routes Theatre Company are currently publishing monthly newsletters featuring creative industry experts advising youngsters on how to break into their dream role within the theatre industry. Alongside this, the theatre in education group are working on producing an intergenerational digital theatre project exploring the impact technology has on relationships in a Covid world.
“My favourite place in Southend is the Cliff Gardens. There’s something so relaxing about strolling through these gardens on a Summer Day or in the Winter Sun. It’s visually beautiful, well maintained and overlooks our lovely coastline. I feel at home, and proud of our county when I visit the Cliff Gardens.”
SI DEAVES – COMEDIAN
Si Deaves is a comedian, writer and podcast host and producer from Essex. He performs extensively across the country and writes sketches, scripts and more and regularly produces podcasts, including his own, The Comedian’s Tea Party, which can be found on all major podcast platforms.
He uses stand-up to delve into the weird and wonderful things his mind does, and as a platform to exercise his dry acerbic wit.
Follow him on Facebook – he regularly gigs in Southend!
“One of the best undiscovered acts in the country” – BFG Concerts
“Great. Very Original” – Anonymous famous comedian
“I think I’d say my favourite part of Southend is somewhere that I discovered during the lockdown, when my fiance bought me an inflatable kayak, from which I discovered the estuary in a way I never had before. Growing up around here I’ve always seen it and have always loved spending time on the beach with friends, but there’s something special about being on the water and seeing everywhere from Shoeburyness to Canvey from the water. Its gives it all a little bit of magic.”
LIZZIE PAGE – WRITER
Hello, I’m a Southend author and I write under the pen-name Lizzie Page. I also teach creative writing workshops at Create98 (which is where I met the founder of this site!)
I’ve been writing all my adult life, and finally got a publishing contract with Bookouture – a Digital First Publishing Company about three years ago. My books are historical fiction. The first ones ‘The War Nurses’ and ‘Daughters of War’ were inspired by real life women who volunteered to nurse in World War One. My third book ‘When I was you’ was about a woman who took in an evacuated child in World War Two, and my fourth ‘The Forgotten Girls’ was about the girlfriend of the war correspondent, Robert Capa. I’ve recently released my fifth book, ‘The Wartime Nanny’ – see picture – which was inspired by the 20,000 German and Austrian Jewish women who came to England to work as domestic servants in the 1930s. My books have sold over 100,000 copies worldwide and have been translated into Swedish, Dutch, Czech and Hungarian.
I love writing and feel hugely lucky to be published: To be paid to do something you love is a massive privilege and I’m determined not to waste the opportunity. I have recently signed a three-book contract with Bookouture for a series of books set in post-war Britain and I am now researching life at the time. I think I have mentioned Southend or Westcliff in nearly all of my books – well, they say ‘write what you know…’
I’ve just get a web-site, Lizzie-Page.com or you can find me on twitter: @lizziepagewrite FB or instagram.
“I have loads of favourite place in Southend, mostly coffee shops! But I’m going to recommend somewhere a 20min drive away – Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome. Going here is like going back in time; it’s an aviation museum but it’s more than that. It’s all fields and fantastic skies, and run mostly by volunteers, there’s a lovely tearoom and a lovely shop and a small but perfectly formed exhibition on Women in World War One. It really is an undiscovered gem.”
FLORENCE SCOTT – GHASTLY CREATURES
Hello Southend! My name is Florence Scott.
I am an illustrator, prop maker and creator of Ghastly Creatures, an illustrative world of ghouls and grizzlies – with style! I’ve been illustrating for the past three years, alongside working in the film and theatre industries making and painting my way through all sorts of interesting projects. With a passion for the natural world and an interest in fantasy themes and storytelling, my work over the years has evolved in style. My Ghastly Creatures however have been a constant. These beasties can seem dark and menacing but their origins are quite the opposite, they’re a lesson in learning to love yourself and relishing in your weirdness! These creatures love life! They started as a respite for creative block back when I started freelancing. A lot of inspiration of the style comes from animation of the early 00’s and a lifelong fascination with the macabre and gothic.I’m currently open to portrait commissions and collaborations! To view more of my work or to send me a message follow @ghastlycreatures or @florencescott.illustration and to purchase prints, cards and merchandise head to etsy.co.uk/shop/ghastlycreatures
“My favourite place in Southend has to be Chalkwell Beach, midwinter. When the estuary is full of wading birds, the beach is empty and the air is misty and cool”