SourceWire: Entertainment and Arts https://pressreleases.responsesource.com Thu, 15 Jun 2023 00:12:58 +0100 hello@responsesource.com (ResponseSource Press Release Wire) support@responsesource.com Copyright2023 ResponseSource Ltd. https://static.responsesource.com/favicon.ico <![CDATA[ResponseSource Press Release Wire: Entertainment and Arts]]> https://pressreleases.responsesource.com Zend Framework Zend_Feed en-us http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104129/soapstar-anthony-quinlan-reveals-hair-transplant/ <![CDATA[Soapstar Anthony Quinlan reveals hair transplant]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/744728615/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Soapstar-Anthony-Quinlan-reveals-hair-transplant/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104129/soapstar-anthony-quinlan-reveals-hair-transplant/       ]]>
Soap star Anthony Quinlan underwent a hair transplant at the Farjo Hair Institute’s flagship clinic in Manchester

The FUE procedure was carried out by eminent surgeon Dr Greg Williams and involved 1926 follicular unit grafts

Quinlan is delighted with the ‘drastic results’ and would encourage anyone thinking about hair transplant surgery to book in for a consultation


Actor and soap star, Anthony Quinlan, is best known for his roles as Gilly Roach in Hollyoaks, as well as Pete Barton in Emmerdale. Like thousands of other men, he started to notice hair loss in his late twenties and decided to do something about it, for both personal reasons and for his career.


“I think I was around the age of 27 when I first noticed that my hair was starting to thin,” says Quinlan.


“As well as the physical aspect, it was also starting to affect me mentally. Working in the acting industry there’s often a lot of heavy lighting and I was finding it embarrassing that the makeup team would have to fill in my hair on set.”


As well as the impact it was having on his career, the actor also found himself becoming increasingly aware of his hair loss outside of work too.


“It was starting to affect me on a daily basis; I felt very self-conscious about the hair loss whenever I would go out.”



That’s why he decided to call upon the Farjo Hair Institute, one of the most respected hair transplant clinics in the country who are renowned for their natural looking hair transplant results, as well as their long list of VIP clientele.


Dr Greg Williams, a distinguished Hair Transplant Surgeon at the Farjo Hair Institute, carried out Anthony’s procedure.


“Anthony came to the Farjo Hair Institute in 2017 to see what his options were when it came to his hair loss on the recommendation of his good friend and Emmerdale colleague, Chris Bisson. After a thorough consultation with myself, we decided that the first priority is to ensure that the loss has stabilised first through medical therapy. Anthony came back a year later in 2018 and we agreed that a follicular unit excision (FUE) procedure would be the best route forward. We carried out his 7-hour operation which involved 1926 grafts into the affected areas. His results are fantastic and I’m thrilled he’s regained his confidence”


The soap star agrees and is delighted with his results.


“I think when you look at the before and after photos you can see that I’ve had a pretty impressive result. I’m really pleased and I no longer have the heavy lighting issues on set anymore either! It’s changed me for the better and I’d recommend anyone who has similar issues to explore this as an option” says Quinlan.



ENDS

Notes to editors:


A medical and surgical facility established in 1993, the Farjo Hair Institute is dedicated to providing the best quality patient care in the fields of medical hair treatment and surgical hair restoration

With clinics in Manchester and London, the Institute is renowned for its transformational hair transplant results and VIP/celebrity clientele

FUE hair transplants start at £3,000 but the average is £7,500at the Farjo Hair Institute

For more information, original hi-res imagery or further quotes please contact: rebecca@rlcomms.com / 07891069258
      
]]> Wed, 07 Jun 2023 12:30:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104116/celebrity-photographer-rankin-first-photo-exhibition-in-portugal/ <![CDATA[Celebrity Photographer Rankin First Photo Exhibition in Portugal]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/743950163/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Celebrity-Photographer-Rankin-First-Photo-Exhibition-in-Portugal/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104116/celebrity-photographer-rankin-first-photo-exhibition-in-portugal/       ]]>
Curated to showcase Rankin’s work and vision in its purest form, the works on display are not the conspicuously clean shots of social media or advertising, rather an exploration of personality, performance and, in many cases, natural imperfection.

Rankin says: “This exhibition is a fresh realisation with my fascination with life and death, and the real vs. the unreal. These are themes which have fascinated me most throughout my career.

As I get older, all these ideas become more intertwined in my imagination. They are not mutually exclusive to me, and I am able to find one within another.

To showcase my new floral works alongside archival beauty and portraiture is to draw a line in theme and intent. I always strive to find the reality in beauty. The real person behind any image I take. This is the purest my photography can be.”

Rankin co-founded the seminal magazine Dazed & Confused with Jefferson Hack in 1991 and has since published the likes of AnOther and AnOther Man, alongside over 40 books and the biannual fashion, culture and lifestyle print and digital platform, Hunger.

His photography has been published everywhere from his own publications to Elle, Vogue, Esquire, GQ, Rolling Stone, and Wonderland, and exhibited in galleries around the world, including MoMA, New York, and the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.
He lives in London with his wife Tuuli and their dogs.

Exhibition PURE: RANKIN, In The Pink, Gallery for Fine Photo Art

24th of June 2023
Tuesday to Friday, from 11am to 7pm, and Saturdays, from 10am to 2pm

Praça da República 69-75, 8100-270 Loulé


For further information or requests for images with resolution, please contact:

IN THE PINK
Pedro Vasconi & Patrícia Oliveira
press@in-the-pink.com
+351 289 462 320

RANKIN
Ellen Stone
ellens@rankin.co.uk
+447 535 172 511

Full press image list available upon request. Exclusive interviews with Rankin are also available by contacting Ellen Stone.
      
]]> Fri, 02 Jun 2023 12:30:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104076/emerging-music-scene-not-dead-in-central-london-meet-the/ <![CDATA[Emerging music scene not dead in central London. Meet the female trio bringing it back to life.]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/742680260/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Emerging-music-scene-not-dead-in-central-London-Meet-the-female-trio-bringing-it-back-to-life/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104076/emerging-music-scene-not-dead-in-central-london-meet-the/       ]]>
• London culture agency and creative incubator, What Does Not (WDN) hopes to harness youth culture’s explosive energy as a force for urban regeneration through emerging music initiative What Does Not NOISE

• The emerging music initiative seeks to regenerate areas depleted of authentic culture, after extensive on-the-ground research with music communities

• Putting emerging music talent centre stage in Zone 1 – new NOISE initiative by the all-female team finds undiscovered talent from across London and invites them to showcase their skills and jam in front of audiences unfamiliar with such raw creativity

• NOISE events currently take place at the Lower Third in Soho, previously the 12 Bar Club, which helped catapult Adele and Jeff Buckley to fame, in the historic ‘Tin Pan Alley’, where Bowie and the Stones recorded

• WDN has plans to take NOISE to various other central London venues that are open to supporting this initiative

London, 25 May, 2023

Parties with purpose have been making the rounds, but do they change anything? One ambitious, all-female social enterprise is making sure the world takes note: “If you’re left feeling a little empty by the ‘work hard, play hard’ cycle, we’re saying, it’s possible for your average night out to move the dial on the status quo,” says founder of culture agency and creative incubator, What Does Not (WDN), Christine Charitonos. She's building a team of powerhouse women who are setting out to shake things up in hospitality, the creative industries and beyond.

WDN argues that music is the Trojan horse of systems change. Now that they’ve got their horse through the gates, they’re inviting lovers of new music to celebrate with them at their emerging music showcase meets curated jam night, What Does Not NOISE - next event this Friday May 26th.

Meanwhile, they’ll continue making inroads with policymakers and corporates to bridge the grassroots with the ‘grasstops’. But how does any of this have a social impact?

“When we started embedding ourselves with the underground hip hop culture, we immediately spotted a huge problem: none of the circuit was in central London. And so NOISE was born,” says Christine. “Music being pushed into the ends was the symptom of the same disease afflicting every city: gentrification kills culture,” she adds.

“For decades the answer to regenerating areas was seen as a top-down approach of large developments. Monoculture. We’re saying, building on the heritage of a place, music can be the metabolism of our city. And we can harness the explosive energy of youth culture to breathe new life into the heart of London,” adds WDN’s partnerships and innovation director, Mary Valiakas.

“It means changing what we value, how we appreciate what is considered good, and important. We think of ourselves as advanced, but the world we live in definitely isn’t it. We can do better, so people and place can all thrive,” says Mary.

What Does Not is aiming to amplify its impact through brand partnerships for the rest of 2023 and beyond, kicking things off with cool, historic workwear brand, M.C.Overalls. Spokesperson, Rohaan Sajnani, has been to several WDN events and is a big believer in their credo that your spending power can pack a punch.

The other heavyweight in the core WDN trio, is Tamara Mikaberidze, events & project director – who brings over a decade of producing events for Universal Pictures to the fold. “Sure, corporate events are great, and you have big budgets for big productions – but we’ve been doing polished production and high curation levels, on a shoestring budget – that’s what experience in the industry gets you.”

You can experience NOISE for yourself this Friday, May 26 at the Lower Third in Soho. But if you’re reading this too late, follow What Does Not on Instagram for updates on upcoming events. With a cross-genre, emerging music festival in the pipeline too.

ENDS

About What Does Not

What Does Not is a culture agency and creative incubator, combining the functions of an events company, prep school, community, and creative agency. It is an ecosystem of ecosystems for living a life with purpose, with genuine human connection at its core. They harness the power of humans to rewrite outdated narratives, and celebrate unorthodox thinking. They believe that cutting across all the silos and layers of society is the way to light the creative spark that’s dormant in everyone – humans and brands. Some brands they’ve worked with include Soho House, The Ministry and The Outernet.


More info
Phone: +44 7599706872
Web: www.whatdoesnot.com
IG: @whatdoesnot
Email: hey@whatdoesnot.com
Contact: Christine Charitonos
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k79pGer6clY&t=11s
      
]]> Thu, 25 May 2023 15:00:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104070/daaci-celebrates-the-acquisition-of-two-technology-companies-with-event/ <![CDATA[DAACI Celebrates the Acquisition of Two Technology Companies with Event at Abbey Road Studios]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/742517105/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~DAACI-Celebrates-the-Acquisition-of-Two-Technology-Companies-with-Event-at-Abbey-Road-Studios/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104070/daaci-celebrates-the-acquisition-of-two-technology-companies-with-event/       ]]>
The acquisitions position DAACI at the forefront of creative and ethical AI technology – focused on driving a tangible and mutually beneficial partnership between the two. DAACI is also now an organisation with a combined 60 granted patents, a further 20 patents filed, 65 team members, and a current annual revenue of £4.88million.

A select group of industry stakeholders attended Abbey Road Studios for the event in Studio Three, the room where legends including The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Fela Kuti, Amy Winehouse and Stormzy have recorded. The day included demonstrations and an audience with founder and inventor Dr. Joe Lyske, whose life’s work has gone into the patents and method behind this evolution. The event also punctuated the successful completion of DAACI’s incubation with Abbey Road Red, the studios’ music tech incubation programme.
DAACI’s mission is to empower composers, music makers and creatives to unlock their creativity. A key part of this is DAACI’s effort to uphold ethics at the core of its expanding creative AI ecosystem by ensuring that the tools it builds respect copyright, trademark, rights of publicity (where they exist) and Name/Image/Likeness/Voice, put artists at the centre of the creative process, and provide transparency around the data inputs used during the creative process.

With the acquisition of these two music technology firms – MXX and WiSL – DAACI takes another leap forward in powering the content of tomorrow with dynamic music AI that creates an infinite musical palette, and empowers artists and composers to fulfil any brief and tailor each composition to fit specific experiences or occasions in gaming, digital worlds, XR, or VR experiences.

Abbey Road Red has an artist and rights-first philosophy which traverses its incubation guidance. The team advises participants exploring cutting-edge content usage that it is critically important to respect copyright and intellectual property rights and obtain all necessary authorisations and licenses from rightsholders.

Rachel Lyske, CEO of DAACI, said, “This is a milestone moment for DAACI. I’m delighted to welcome MXX and WiSL to the team. We’re forging ahead in collaboration, creating an ecosystem that integrates three decades of experience and research and bridges the gap between static and responsive music creation.

“The ultimate goal is to channel our incredibly powerful ecosystem of technology to create new paths for talented individuals to express themselves. Whether you’re an experienced professional, a budding creative or anything in between, you can benefit from the processes and creative options generated by our system. I’d like to thank Abbey Road Red, the DAACI, MXX and WiSL teams and everyone involved for their incredible hard work and commitment. I’m excited for the possibilities these acquisitions bring.”

Julian Goodkind, CEO of WiSL said, “We are delighted to be joining DAACI and their team on this exciting journey. They are at the forefront of this evolution and, together, have formed a unique and robust ecosystem which truly amplifies growth for both music makers and content creators.

“It’s vitally important to us that AI technology is adopted and utilised in an ethical way, to ensure that songwriters, artists, rights holders and industry professionals continue to be the driving force at the heart of our industry.


“WiSL remains committed to its objective of creating a marketplace for access and discovery for all music, driven by a suite of AI tools which is supported by the music and content creation industry, so that together we can create a new industry standard.”

Simon White, CEO of the TMC2 Venture Studio, who have invested in all three businesses added, “We have an exceptional track record in ground-breaking adaptive AI technologies for music and media and are thrilled to be continuing our journey as part of the world’s ultimate creative AI ecosystem.”

To find out more visit: www.daaci.com

About DAACI

DAACI is the next step in the evolution of music creation - a comprehensive AI system that composes, arranges, orchestrates and produces authentic, high-quality and original music with emotional and narrative awareness. It is set to empower today's generation of composers for the next generation of content, forming a central part of game production, digital worlds and dynamic virtual experiences.

Based on more than 30 years of patented research and supported by partnerships with the UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in Artificial Intelligence and Music at Queen Mary University of London and the innovative Abbey Road Red incubator, DAACI’s pioneering technology ecosystem and meta-composition engine enhances the power of the composer to deliver personalised and emotional music to any brief, anywhere.

More information: https://daaci.com/

About WiSL

The WiSL platform enables the media industry to source, edit, audition and license music for all types of content using one AI driven platform, reducing what took days and weeks, to hours, minutes, or seconds. Currently, finding the right music, editing it and cutting it to picture is a disconnected, resource-heavy and time-consuming business that requires expertise, all contributing to considerable reflective cost, before you even get to the licensing stage.

WiSL is a single platform and global marketplace for all music, built on a suite of proven AI tools that make it simple and intuitive to find, edit, audition and license music. By unifying this ecosystem, WiSL is an intelligent marketplace the music and creative industries need to meet the explosive growth in content, today and tomorrow.

More information: https://www.wisl.ai/

About MXX

MXX invented and patented a suite of artificially intelligent technologies which change the engagement relationship between fan, artist and their music. The powerful AI music editor can re-purpose a track to fit the length of any given set of images and videos, which are cut to beats, drum fills, and section boundaries. The MXX intelligent music editing can be integrated into any UGC video creation app adding new levels of music flexibility and fan engagement.

More information: https://www.mxx.ai/

About Abbey Road Red

Having recently celebrated its 90th anniversary, Abbey Road Studios, the birthplace of stereo and countless innovations in recording technology, created Abbey Road Red in 2016. Inspired by the original in-house Record Engineering Development Department of the 1950s to 1980s, Abbey Road Red is our open innovation department designed to support the endeavors of the brightest music tech entrepreneurs, researchers and developers.
 
We run a unique music tech start-up incubation programme – the first of its kind in Europe – to support the most promising music tech start-ups, as well as collaborating with the brightest minds in academic research. In 2018, the programme expanded with in-house R&D activities within the music creation space. The white lab coats are long gone at Abbey Road, but the spirit of adventure is still as present as ever.
 
During its incubation process, Abbey Road Red provides each start-up with a completely tailored incubation, shaped to leverage its expertise, assets and network to help solve problems or reach strategic goals - whether that’s helping with a rush to market, exploring platform developments, design and deployment, business case tweaking, deep tech advice, business development or interfacing with the music industry. Previous start-ups to graduate from Red can be found here.
 
Abbey Road Red is in its seventh year of operation and in this time has incubated 19 businesses, which between them have raised over $90m and have a collective post-money valuation of more than $350m. It has recently experienced its first exit when AImusic, a start-up from its second cohort, was acquired by Apple in early 2022.

More information: https://www.abbeyroad.com/abbeyroadred


Press Contacts:

Gemma Stenberg
OLEX Communications
gemma@olexcommunications.co.uk
+44 7854 813 153

Veronica Perazzolo
OLEX Communications
veronica@olexcommunications.co.uk
      
]]> Wed, 24 May 2023 11:45:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104063/london-college-of-garden-design-graduates-excel-at-chelsea/ <![CDATA[LONDON COLLEGE OF GARDEN DESIGN GRADUATES EXCEL AT CHELSEA]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/742219904/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~LONDON-COLLEGE-OF-GARDEN-DESIGN-GRADUATES-EXCEL-AT-CHELSEA/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104063/london-college-of-garden-design-graduates-excel-at-chelsea/       ]]> London College of Garden Design (LCGD) Graduates and Students have competed in every garden category and enjoyed great success with some winning the top accolade of a Gold medal.

LCGD Director Andrew Wilson, who himself is exhibiting again at Chelsea this year, said “It’s a testament to the hard work of our tutors as well as our Graduates in being accepted to exhibit here. The show ground has also been full of our students helping on gardens and enjoying the experience of what exhibiting means.”
The garden results for LCGD Graduates and their contractors are as follows.

Natural Affinity Garden for Aspens - @thegardentaylor with The Outdoor Room Silver Gilt

Royal Entomological Society – @tommasseyuk with Landscape Associates Silver Gilt

School Food Matters - @harryholdingstudio with Landscape Associates Silver Gilt

Choose Love Garden - @plantyjane with Stone Inspired Silver Gilt

Sadler’s Wells East Garden - @alexaryanmills with Big Fish Landscapes Silver

Talitha Arts Garden - @careygardenstudio Gold

Folio Society’s Reading Room Garden - @katherinehollanduk with Phil Sutton Landscapes Silver Gilt

Hampden Stargardt Garden - @joanne_edmonds2000 and Camilla Windsor-Clive with Sebastian Brand Silver Gilt


About the London College of Garden Design

Based in the Orangery conference facilities at Kew Gardens, the UK’s leading garden design school combines the experience of two of the UK’s leading garden professionals Andrew Wilson and Andrew Fisher Tomlin. At The London College of Garden Design, we aim to provide world-class, inspirational garden design training. Our Garden Design Diploma, the Planting Design Diploma and other garden design courses have been created to enable students to learn from the very best in the profession. LCGD Melbourne is our partner college in Australia based in the Melbourne Gardens of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

For more information, please contact:
Andrew Fisher Tomlin
andrewfishertomlin@lcgd.org.uk
07957 855457
      
]]> Tue, 23 May 2023 13:00:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104057/first-light-festival-the-uk-s-only-beach-front-festival-returns/ <![CDATA[FIRST LIGHT FESTIVAL: The UK's only beach front festival returns this June]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/742084679/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~FIRST-LIGHT-FESTIVAL-The-UKs-only-beach-front-festival-returns-this-June/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104057/first-light-festival-the-uk-s-only-beach-front-festival-returns/       ]]> After a triumphant weekend in 2022, Lowestoft’s free summer solstice celebration will return for 2023. Inspired by Lowestoft’s location as the most Easterly part of the country and therefore the first to receive sunlight, the festival programme has been curated to celebrate the cycles of the sun with events taking place throughout the weekend from sunrise to sundown.

Championing Lowestoft as a growing creative hub by showcasing and supporting new talent within the local community, alongside a full programme of events and activations to engage and excite – First Light Festival is the UK’s only free beach festival.

2023 CONFIRMED LINE-UP & FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

MUSIC - Big names include:
DJ Paulette - 2022’s Winner of the DJ Mag Top 100 Lifetime Achievement Award
DJ Luke Una - Cult club culture pioneer and one half of iconic duo, The Unabombers
Jembaa Groove - 2023 SXSW-approved, Berlin-based 7-piece band
Eliza Carthy - Folk legend (presented by FolkEast).
First Light also features a strong showcase of local and emerging talent, and a diverse line up of East Anglia’s foremost DJs.

FIRST WORD - Comedy, spoken word and performances curated by acclaimed poet Luke Wright. Highlights include:
Linton Kwesi Johnson - World renowned reggae poet and recording artist
Josie Long - Multi-award winning comedian and television panel show regular
Joelle Taylor - 2022 TS Elliot-prize winning poet
Caleb Femi - Former Young People’s Laureate, director (BBC, Channel 4, Bottega Veneta and Louis Vuitton) and poet
Harry Baker - World Poetry Slam Champion
Jasmine Gardosi - Birmingham Poet Laureate and winner of the Out-Spoken Prize for Poetry
Robin Ince will headline a special evening event at The Seagull Theatre

UNIQUE DAWN EXPERIENCE - An extraordinary shoreside gathering featuring new collaborative commissions, music and free communal feast as the sun rises


SHINING A LIGHT ON FUTURE TALENT - Young and local musicians invited to play at the UK’s only free beach festival through New Dawn and Playbreak open calls.

PLANET POSITIVE - Cross-sector collaboration with Natural History Museum, Cefas, University of East Anglia, and Suffolk Wildlife Trust promotes the latest in climate research through an accessible programme of talks and activities.

CULTURAL PARTNERSHIPS - First Light Festival will showcase three newly-commissioned works involving many local primary and secondary schools, artists from across the region and a choir of over 100 debuting new works from acclaimed theatre company HighTide. Also for 2023, a partnership with Historic England & Emergency Exit Arts, ‘Hi! Street Fest’, sees Lowestoft selected to launch the project.

WELLBEING BY THE WAVES ZONE - A hugely popular, accessible programme of meditation, yoga, breathwork and movement that takes place on the shore.

TIDES, MOONS AND PLANETS - Festival marks anniversaries of 1953 and 2013 Lowestoft floods through imaginative programme of music, installation and large-scale community projects featuring Trinity Laban musicians, acclaimed sculptor Laurence Edwards and renowned climate photographer Gideon Mendel.

‘COSMIC PIRATES’ – Kids zone encompassing storytelling, art & interactive activities.

Focused on the belief that cultural events should remain available to all, especially with ongoing and extensive cuts to the arts in the UK and the current cost of living crisis; First Light aims to ensure creativity is showcased and actively supported. 2022 saw record attendance of over 35,000 festival-goers throughout the weekend.

PLACEMAKING – First Light is changing the narrative surrounding Lowestoft & celebrating its strengths; providing a fresh perspective of the town as a growing creative hub and a rich cultural tourist destination. First Light Festival will return to Lowestoft’s South Beach as well events taking place at leading local landmarks, with an extended Sunday programme.

FESTIVAL TIMINGS - Opening 12pm noon to sundown (9.30pm) on Saturday and from 10am – 4pm on Sunday, with a dawn sunrise programme of arts from 3.30am on Sunday morning. Additional late-night events will take the celebration to a number of different Lowestoft venues (details and tickets announced soon).

“We’re thrilled to announce our 2023 dates, along with exciting news on some of our upcoming projects. We hope that everyone in Lowestoft will have the chance to get involved with this year’s First Light, whether that is contributing to our parade, playing on a stage or soaking up the festival atmosphere and all it has to offer.”
Genevieve Christie, CEO of First Light Festival CIC

NOTES TO EDITORS

ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMMING & RESPONSIBILITY - First Light have partnered with national and cultural organisations such as the Natural History Museum & CEFAS to create a programme that focuses on environmental knowledge sharing and hands-on interactions with the latest scientific research. Committed to minimising the event’s environmental impact, 2023 will see further positive developments taking place and building on the success of 2022 sustainability successes through First Light’s ‘Planet Positive’ zone.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION - First Light actively encourages community engagement, through locally-focused musician call-outs, a large-scale community opening parade project, artists showcases, schools involvement in creative activities and multiple on-site activities.

WILD BEACH CAMPING – The ONLY festival that offers experiential ‘on the beach’ camping right alongside the festival.Camping tickets are now available, with Campervan Tickets available now: www.firstlightlowestoft.com/camping

ACCESSIBILITY – In contrast to many festivals, First Light encourages sustainable transport links with its beachfront and central town location, ensuring ease of travel for festival-goers with direct train & bus routes.


Environmental responsibility

First Light Festival 2023 will see further positive developments taking place and building on the success of 2022 sustainability successes including:
‘Planet Positive’ zone in partnership with the Natural History museum offering interactive displays and talks around positive action on climate change
Multiple festival events being powered by solar energy
Increased requirements for traders to use sustainably-sourced produce and packaging
Reuse, redesign and repurposing festival installations and signage for 2023 production
Majority of performers are locally based to minimise transportation requirements & increased local transport options and discounted camping tickets for those not travelling by car

ENDS


Follow us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FirstLightLowestoft
Instagram: @firstlightlowestoft
Twitter: @firstlight_Fest

For further information, please contact Jenny Houghton: Jenny@JHoughtonPR.co.uk/ +447766336216
      
]]> Mon, 22 May 2023 12:30:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104030/championing-equality-the-female-kickboxer-s-role-in-shaping-the-future/ <![CDATA[Championing Equality: The Female Kickboxer's Role in Shaping the Future of Martial Arts Governance]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/740760974/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Championing-Equality-The-Female-Kickboxers-Role-in-Shaping-the-Future-of-Martial-Arts-Governance/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104030/championing-equality-the-female-kickboxer-s-role-in-shaping-the-future/       ]]>
Kelly McFie has been elected to the role of national management committee officer, effective immediately. In her new role, Kelly will be responsible for supporting the Chairman and wider national committee team in delivering NAKMAS' strategic vision and ensuring the highest level of governance, compliance, and risk control.

With more than 33 years of experience in the martial arts industry as a senior kickboxer and a passion for the sport, Kelly is well-placed to contribute to NAKMAS' ongoing success.

"I am thrilled to have been appointed as committee officer for NAKMAS," said Kelly. "I look forward to working with the Chairman and the NAKMAS National Management Committee to further strengthen NAKMAS' position as a leading authority as an independent national governing body within the martial arts world."

The appointment of Kelly McFie comes at an exciting time for NAKMAS. With a strong strategic focus on growth, development, and excellent governance overseen by the British Standards Institution(BSI), the organisation continues to work closely with its members and external partners to ensure the highest standards of training, coaching, and effective governance for martial arts practitioners across the United Kingdom.

"We are delighted to welcome Kelly to the national committee team," said The Reverend Joe Ellis, the National Chairman of NAKMAS and an 8th Dan within Karate. "Her expertise and passion for martial arts will be invaluable as we move forward with our ambitious growth and governance plans. She runs her own kickboxing club as a senior black belt (4th Dan) and has an impressive list of qualifications, including a BSc (Hons) First Class in Physical Activity and Health. She is also a competitive weightlifter and was the British Masters Champion in 2019. I am very proud to have Kelly on the committee, and I know she will make excellent contributions to NAKMAS as a whole".

Ends

EDITORS’ NOTES

Find out more about NAKMAS via https://nakmas.org.uk

NAKMAS has secured accreditation to the Equality Standard: A Framework for Sport. To find out more about Equality Standard: A Framework for Sport at http://equalityinsport.org

NAKMAS is also certified and accredited to the National/International Quality Management System, BS EN ISO 9001:2015, via the BSI (British Standards Institution) within the UK (UKAS) and the USA (ANAB).

The National Association of Karate and Martial Art Schools (NAKMAS) National Governing Body is a non-funded national governing body and is a member of Sport & Recreation Alliance and The Association For International Sport For All and has its Head Office based in Kent. NAKMAS governs all forms of traditional and modern martial arts.


For further information, please contact:

Libby Ellison NAKMAS Press/Media Officer:
Email: libby.ellison@nakmas.org.uk
Mobile: 07483 306288

Rev Joe Ellis NAKMAS National Chair:
Email: joe.ellis@nakmas.org.uk
Telephone: 01227 376180

NAKMAS Head Office:
admin@nakmas.org.uk
Tel: 01227 370055
      
]]> Mon, 15 May 2023 11:15:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/104021/douze-points-for-vodka-schnapps-from-sweden-find-your-fl/ <![CDATA[Douze points for Vodka Schnapps from Sweden: Find your Flävar with this indulgent ‘muffin in a shot glass,’ perfect for Eurosoirees this weekend]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/740219660/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Douze-points-for-Vodka-Schnapps-from-Sweden-Find-your-Fl%c3%a4var-with-this-indulgent-%e2%80%98muffin-in-a-shot-glass%e2%80%99-perfect-for-Eurosoirees-this/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/104021/douze-points-for-vodka-schnapps-from-sweden-find-your-fl/       ]]>

Flävar Blueberry & Lemon (25% abv) is the newest addition to the range, which has been shaking up the shot market all over the country in pubs and bars, a shot to be savoured and enjoyed, inspired by popular Swedish desserts and sweet treats. The combination of citrus and sweet is a delectable combination which works equally well as a post-dinner drink too.

Eurovision is the BEST excuse to throw a party with friends: drink to toast your favourite performers, enjoy the bants of Graham Norton, and sing your heart out. Don those sequins, grab your dancing queens, and get that jumpsuit down from the loft….all you need now is the perfect shots for your drinking games to accompany a night of fun. Read on for how to make sure there are a lorra lorra laughs at your Eurosoiree with delicious and indulgent shots from a brand new Swedish vodka schnapps, mixed up by one of Manchester’s most experienced and talented mixologists.


Made with some of the freshest water in the world, expertly crafted on the shores of beautiful Lake Boren in Southern Sweden, this is a seriously smooth and stylish liquid encased in vivid designs and with a bottleneck proudly emblazoned with the Swedish flag. The secret to the great taste is award-winning vodka mixed with deliciously indulgent flavours: this is a clear, crisp mouth-watering schnapps - made for good times, for those with good taste, and lovers of delicious desserts too.


And just because we love a trend: Flävar is 25% ABV, and has been crafted to cater to those that are interested in having the choice of a more moderate drink on a night out or at a house party, we love that there are more and more products out there being produced that means you can savour the flavour and not go too full on with the alcohol content.

Flävar Strawberry & Lime, Salted Caramel, Raspberry & Liquorice and soon to be released Lemon Pie is also available - and they mix amazingly in cocktails too.


Made with some of the freshest water in the world, expertly crafted on the shores of beautiful Lake Boren in Southern Sweden, this is a seriously smooth and stylish liquid encased in vivid designs and with a bottleneck proudly emblazoned with the Swedish flag. The secret to the great taste is award-winning vodka mixed with deliciously indulgent flavours: this is a clear, crisp mouth-watering schnapps - made for good times, for those with good taste, and lovers of delicious desserts too.

Flävar has worked with tip top Mancunian Mixologist Cameron Fielding aka The Mindful Mixologist, a cocktail connoisseur that’s worked with amazing bars such as Sushi Samba on some epic cocktail shots.*


Founder Rolf Munding says,
“Anyone brought up in Scandinavia and Germany will know Schnapps as it was a huge part of our drinking culture. I have very fond memories of the Schnapps drinking songs we used to sing back in the early 70s! The unique flavour of Schnapps makes me think of some great times, as I am sure it does for many other people too, and Flävar is inspired by this retro drinking experience mixed with the UK's thirst for dessert-style flavours.”
Originality, individuality and a little bit of indulgence is at the heart of every bottle: this is a schnapps to show off. So long Granny’s Cocktail Cabinet, it’s time for Schnapps to shine! Skål! (Swedish for cheers)

***Consumers can buy directly from https://flavarspirit.com. RRP £19.99 for 70cl, 25% ABV***

For PR information please contact Jo on 07814 267 444 or joanne@joannebaird.com


=== ENDS ===


NOTES TO EDITORS
Get involved in the Schnappschat and follow for exciting news on new Flävars coming in 2023: https://www.instagram.com/flavarspirit/
About Flävar
Founded by industry stalwart Rolf Munding, Owner of the workshop in Borensberg Sweden that launched award-winning Swedish vodka and Gin: Truth and JÜST. Rolf has over 20 years of owning and running successful hospitality venues, including Market Taverns pub group in London.
Founder Rolf Munding says,
“Anyone brought up in Scandinavia and Germany will know Schnapps as it was a huge part of our drinking culture. I have very fond memories of the Schnapps drinking songs we used to sing back in the early 70s! The unique flavour of Schnapps makes me think of some great times, as I am sure it does for many other people too.”


ABOUT THE FLAVOURS

Flävar Blueberry & Lemon (25% abv) is the newest addition to the range, which has been shaking up the shot market all over the country in pubs and bars, a shot to be savoured and enjoyed, inspired by popular Swedish desserts and sweet treats. The combination of citrus and sweet is a delectable combination which works equally well as a post-dinner drink too.

Flävar Strawberry & Lime (25% abv) Did you know that Sweden has some of the most succulent strawberries in the world? Candy-sweet and full of flavour, mixing the berries with zesty lime takes this liquid to a whole new level of Flävar.

Flävar Salted Caramel (25% abv)
The beloved classic: the smooth, moreish, sweet and salty sensation that shouldn’t work, but it really does! Perfect for Winter gatherings, this mouth-watering favourite is a treat, and the ultimate cocktail ingredient in Christmas Martinis**. It even tastes delicious poured into a hot chocolate - yum!


Flävar Raspberry & Liquorice (25% abv)
Liquorice is Sweden’s favourite warming treat. Mixed with sweet, juicy raspberry and you’ve got yourself a taste explosion.


*SHOT RECIPES
Youtube Embed link for Cameron’s easy ‘how-to’ Shots video:


Shots hi res here: https://we.tl/t-ibJqZ3wugu

Bottle shots hi res here: https://we.tl/t-ixnQA1Dmwh
      
]]> Thu, 11 May 2023 09:00:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/103989/empowering-the-future-meet-the-50-mena-leaders-transforming-the-region/ <![CDATA[Empowering the Future: Meet the 50 MENA Leaders Transforming the Region]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/738652886/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Empowering-the-Future-Meet-the-MENA-Leaders-Transforming-the-Region/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/103989/empowering-the-future-meet-the-50-mena-leaders-transforming-the-region/       ]]>
TBD Media Group, a leading media company focused on creating content that inspires change, has launched a new campaign 50 MENA Leaders. The campaign aims to highlight the innovative leaders in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region who are using their intelligence and effort to reshape the development landscape.

"We are thrilled to launch the 50 MENA Leaders campaign," said TBD Media Group's CEO, Paolo Zanini. "Our goal is to showcase the incredible work that these leaders are doing, and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps. We believe that by highlighting the innovation and talent in the region, we can help create a more prosperous and sustainable future for everyone."

The 50 MENA Leaders campaign will feature profiles of leaders from a wide range of industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, education, and more. Each profile will provide insights into the leader's background, their approach to leadership, and the impact they are making in their industry and beyond.

"We want to create a platform where these leaders can share their stories and inspire others to pursue their own dreams," said Zanini. "By showcasing the diverse talents and perspectives of the MENA region, we hope to foster a greater sense of community and collaboration across borders and industries."

The 50 MENA Leaders campaign has already generated significant interest from both the media and the public. Many of the featured leaders have been recognised for their work in their respective industries, and the campaign is expected to raise their profiles even further.

Companies featuring in this campaign:
Pet Products Trading Company (PPTCO): Pioneering the pet industry in the MENA region
KCG: Sustainable and innovative construction solutions
Snap Inc: Connecting the real world through technology

More information on the 50 MENA Leaders Campaign may be found here:
https://www.globalthoughtleaders.org/50-mena-leaders and https://gulfnews.com/50-mena-leaders

About TBD Media Group:
TBD Media Group is an international, purpose-driven media developer that helps businesses, organisations and governments tell their brand stories in a human and direct way. Learn more at https://www.tbdmediagroup.com/


Media Contact:
Supprija Sanmuganathan
Marketing Coordinator
TBD Media Group
s.sanmuganathan@tbdmedia.com
      
]]> Thu, 04 May 2023 09:00:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/103962/new-charity-launches-to-tackle-autoimmune-disease-and-help-support/ <![CDATA[NEW CHARITY LAUNCHES TO TACKLE AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE AND HELP SUPPORT THE NHS WITH FASTER DIAGNOSIS - POTENTIALLY SAVING MILLIONS OF POUNDS IN LATE TREATMENTS WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED.]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/737356361/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~NEW-CHARITY-LAUNCHES-TO-TACKLE-AUTOIMMUNE-DISEASE-AND-HELP-SUPPORT-THE-NHS-WITH-FASTER-DIAGNOSIS-POTENTIALLY-SAVING-MILLIONS-OF-POUNDS-IN-LATE-TREATMENTS-WHICH/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/103962/new-charity-launches-to-tackle-autoimmune-disease-and-help-support/       ]]>

 


ASA Foundations mission is to Support, Transform and Save the Lives of those affected by Autoimmune Disease.

In the UK, 7%, or 4 million people, are known to live with at least one autoimmune condition. There are nearly 100 identified autoimmune diseases, with incidence rising 9% each year. This is predicted to be significantly higher now that we are aware of Long-COVID. As a group they are a bigger killer than cancer and include conditions such as MS, Alzheimer’s, lupus, scleroderma, endometriosis, asthma, autism, Parkinson’s, Crohn’s, eczema, psoriasis and many more. Even cancer is related as it is an autoimmune dysfunction. 

Autoimmune Support & Awareness Foundation UK (ASA Foundation) is a registered UK charity. It was established by Asal Shirazi BEM in late 2022, after many years of her personal advocacy and as a direct response to the lack of information available for sufferers combined with the limited training provided to the primary care sector. 

Asal has a life limiting condition called Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma, Sjogren’s, Raynaud’s, Hashimoto’s, lupus plus many more, all autoimmune conditions. She was initially misdiagnosed which has led to more internal damage, affecting her physical and mental health. There are millions like her who have been mis or late diagnosed and thus a bigger burden on the NHS due to late treatment and unnecessary cost. 

According to Asal, “It’s all down to awareness and education. We need everyone to be able to spot the signs and be able to access the right kind of tests quickly”. In many ways COVID has helped people be more aware of their bodies, they now need to recognise that there are many more autoimmune conditions which can be equally as dangerous if undetected.

What is clear is that the emotional and mental impact on an individual can be life-changing and debilitating; depression, anxiety, and loneliness are common side-effects of a diagnosis. It is predicted that 66% of people living with autoimmune diseases have mental health problems and 68% of people with autoimmune diseases are unemployed or unable to work full-time.

The NHS is under ever increasing pressure with waiting lists only set to get longer. But the alternative doesn’t need to be expensive private healthcare, there is another way. In response to this ASA Foundation UK has recently partnered with Living Room Health. “Speed to Diagnosis is key if we are to deal with growing number of people affected by Autoimmune Disease. We are delighted to be able to partner with Living Room Health to be able to make this happen” says Prof Ash Professor Ash Mosahebi, Consultant Plastic Surgeon – MBBS FRCS FRCS(PLAST) PHD MBA. Professor Mosahebi is the head of one of the largest plastic surgery teaching units at a leading London hospital. He carries out reconstructive surgery for the after effects of cancer and deals with patients deformed by the effects of autoimmune disease every day. Living Room Health is making private healthcare more accessible to take the burden off the NHS. They offer a self-pay solution for diagnosis and treatment and have created an immediate, straightforward, and cost-effective approach to healthcare, providing same day appointments and a range of services and treatments from MRIs to joint pain management to GP services.

 

ASA Foundation’s Ambassadors include: 

KRISTINA RIHANOFF Professional Dancer and Wellbeing Yoga coach (Co-Owner of Soo Yoga)

GILLIAN MCKEITH- (TV personality, writer, and Nutritionist)

MARIUS IIPURE (Professional Dancer and Co-Owner of OTI MABUSE Dance School) 

TRACY KISS (Bodybuilder, Influencer and TV personality)

 CELEBRITIES SUCH AS
LIZZIE CUNDY
VARIOUS NATIONAL PAPER EDITORS
ARAB NEWS
Top medical surgeons and consultants from NHS
City Heads of Banks and Coorporations
Politicians
Italian Live Band DEBUT IN THE UK(Italian RADIO SOCIETY) WITH ELISA CIPRO (CELEBRITY SINGER) flown in from Monte Carlo
Robin Windsor of Strictly Fame
CELEBRITY WELLBEING CHEF TO FOOTBALLERS
COUTURE DESIGNERS TO CELEBRITIES
Many more have come together to support this unique attempt at taking the burden off the NHS

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND INTERVIEWS PLEASE VONTACT:
MINI BIZ PR
Info@minibizpr.com
07843055357
      
]]> Wed, 26 Apr 2023 11:30:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/103952/a-right-royal-shropshire-visit-for-a-king-charles-spaniel/ <![CDATA[A Right Royal Shropshire Visit for a King Charles Spaniel]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/737178131/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~A-Right-Royal-Shropshire-Visit-for-a-King-Charles-Spaniel/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/103952/a-right-royal-shropshire-visit-for-a-king-charles-spaniel/       ]]>
Marrington Escapes holiday house rentals and Different Dog, Shrewsbury’s freshly cooked dog food specialists, joined forces at the beautiful Marrington Hall in Chirbury where Tayto was giving the 16th century stately house a once-over prior to guests arriving for the weekend celebrations.

Tayto, who is a key member of the Product Development team at Different Dog, approved of the extensive grounds and gardens with swimming pool which provided a perfect backdrop for the elegantly refurbished Hall. As usual, Tayto enjoyed his lunch-time serving of Different Dog’s hand-cooked dog food in the baronial dining room and afterwards retired to the drawing room for a nap.

Chris Morris from Marrington Escapes said: “What a treat to host our very own King Charles at Marrington Hall. As a dog-friendly Estate, we know that luxury doesn’t have to mean you leave your furry friends behind when booking a getaway to Shropshire. Tayto certainly seemed to approve of the standard here at the Hall and we are looking forward to hosting families and friends who are booking the Hall for their own celebrations fit for royalty ahead.”

Becca Murphy, Product Technical Lead from Different Dog commented: “Tayto and I have thoroughly enjoyed our time here at Marrington. It is great to be working together with another dog-friendly Shropshire family business for the upcoming Coronation, and treating our very own King Charles as royalty.”

When not hosting ‘royal’ guests, the spectacular late 16th century Marrington Hall sleeps up to 14 with impressive space to entertain and celebrate. With its elegant drawing room, glamorous dining room and comfy lounges, this listed country house is part of a portfolio of luxuriously appointed properties available on the Marrington Estate, located in Chirbury, South Shropshire.

Marrington Escapes is part of the Morris & Company Group, a fifth-generation family business based in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. To find out how to hire Marrington Hall and to book your next holiday with Marrington Escapes, please visit https://marringtonescapes.com/

ENDS
For further editorial information or to arrange a press visit, please contact Paige Eades at paigeeades@morrisandco.com or on 01743 232 005, or mobile 07590 228563
      
]]> Tue, 25 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/103950/the-fitzrovia-gallery-announces-bedroom-stories-a-solo-presentation/ <![CDATA[THE FITZROVIA GALLERY announces ‘5 BEDROOM STORIES,' a solo presentation of recent work by London based artist MARIA GVARDEITSEVA]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/737174177/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~THE-FITZROVIA-GALLERY-announces-%e2%80%98-BEDROOM-STORIES-a-solo-presentation-of-recent-work-by-London-based-artist-MARIA-GVARDEITSEVA/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/103950/the-fitzrovia-gallery-announces-bedroom-stories-a-solo-presentation/       ]]>
London, April 2023:

For centuries, the breakup has been the prerogative of men. In the 19th century, romantic love emerged as the basis for marriage and changed the game. In the days of arranged unions, one could blame society if things didn't work out. But since the conceptual evolution of the marriage towards a sentimental vision, the breakup becomes an attack on the inner self.

Today, about half of all marriages in Europe and the UK end in divorce, and significantly, 75 per cent of divorce applications are filed by women. Perhaps that last statistic explains why women suffer more emotional hurt and find it more challenging than their ex-partners to build a new lifestyle and relationships. The cruel logic would be that if the woman marries for love and then decides it is a bad idea, the fault must be hers. So she suffers psychological and social consequences – self-blame, stigma, or both.

The project 5-Minute Bedtime Stories courageously resists this logic. London-based artist Maria Gvardeitseva (divorced after 20 years of marriage, four children, numerous countries, and shared challenges) takes a pronounced political and feminist approach to the story of her separation, which transforms grief, sorrow, and hatred to let them go. She offers artistic tools that help women to look at the situation with self-love, rediscovers the socio-political aspects of marriage, and cope with this life trauma and the challenges of patriarchy.

She surprisingly does this – by reference to fairy tales. In this structuralist masterpiece, The Morphology of the Folk Tale, Vladimir Propp described the typological similarity between a fairy tale and an initiation rite. The initiatory nature of marriage – to the secrets of sex (as it used to be), childbirth, etc. – is not in doubt: the number of hallucinations and fantasies explicitly associated with marriage and weddings in modern popular culture spills over.

Think only of the diamond engagement ring. It is a marketing success of the ruthless De Beers diamond monopoly and not a widespread tradition: diamonds are rare because De Beers controlled supply, and they are popular because the company backed substantial marketing campaigns, which made diamond engagement rings de rigueur. The ring on a severed finger in Gvardeitseva's installation emphasizes this irony.

What particularly interests Gvardeitseva is Propp's idea that, in the fairy tale, the hero's initiation to an adventure and a new status depends on stepping outside an institution and violating an interdiction. The hero – or heroine – is told, "Don't, on any account, go out of the garden!". But they do go out, and then the impossible and fantastic happens.

If the only status imagined by our culture following divorce, the end of love or betrayal of a partner is drowning in a lake, retirement to a nunnery, or waiting for the next love-and-marriage opportunity, we perhaps need to think again about divorce and separation as an initiation and not always and inevitably as a tragedy.

The institution of marriage is less powerful now than it was in the past (in Slavic countries, almost within living memory, girls who died before marriage were buried in a wedding dress as if to atone for sin). No doubt there are reasons for that. However, women's experience of divorce and separation as victims or guilty parties is worse than inexpedient.

Using the parallel with fairy tales, Gvardeitseva suggests that violating an interdiction or stepping outside an institution can be a brave step with transformative consequences. Could there be a fairy-tale divorce? A more intense life in the self-revealed sense, initiation to a new stage, or ultimate return to the same marriage institution in a more satisfactory form. A variety of possible "happily ever afters."


MARIA GVARDEITSEVA, Artist: “For me personally, this exhibition is important, first of all, by the discovery of large layers of problems that seem to be recognized, but are not on the agenda. Each of my heroines, whose stories became fairy tales, spoke about the refraction of pain, about the fact that there is light at the end of the tunnel. And this light is self-love, we ourselves."


ENDS

For more information, please contact NOVA RELATIONS –
anna@novarelations.com
https://novarelations.com/

Notes to Editors
Links:

Website: https://mariagvardeitseva.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maria.gvard/?hl=en

The Fitzrovia Gallery:
Website: http://fitzroviagallery.co.uk/
Instagram: http://fitzroviagallery.co.uk


Exhibition Details:

Exhibition: 13.04 – 29.04.23
Tuesday – Saturday, 12– 6 PM

Location:
The Fitzrovia Gallery
139 Whitfield Street, London, W1T 5EN


About Maria Gvardeitseva

Born in 1982 in Minsk, Belarus
Currently lives in London, UK

Maria Gvardeitseva is a multi-disciplinary visual artist based in London. Gvardeitseva holds a diploma in Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK (2007), completed the New Media Course at the University of Denver, Denver, CO (2011), and is working on an MA in Art and Politics at Goldsmiths, University of London (2022-current).

In her works, Maria Gvardeitseva works ironically with themes of memory and sublimates pain in ways that are at once realistic and fantastical. The political plays a crucial role in her installations, and in one of her recent exhibitions, Maria placed her Belarusian passport in a jar of formaldehyde, comparing torn documents to scattered anatomies in naturalistic and medical museums. In the spirit of Didi Huberman's montage technique, Gvardeitseva works with notions of severance, splitting the essence of objects away from their socially reproducible roles – all things necessary to film-montage our lives.

Maria speaks clearly and straightforwardly of the pain and emotional experience of exile, the collapse of time and the strangeness of love, leaving room for a metaphorical reading where the versatility of emotions is the key focus. As a principle of Gvardeitseva's artistic practice, aesthetic distancing creates room for thought and gives physical awareness of the surrounding space.

Gvardeitseva has taken part in group and solo exhibitions, staged performances and was a finalist in the national selection to create the collection for the Belarusian Pavilion at the 59th Venice Biennale in 2022.
      
]]> Tue, 25 Apr 2023 13:30:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/103946/zoobs-and-elmonx-collaborate-exclusive-nft-collection-to-release-on/ <![CDATA[Zoobs and ElmonX Collaborate: Exclusive NFT Collection to Release on 12th Wedding Anniversary of Kate Middleton and Prince William!]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/737146580/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Zoobs-and-ElmonX-Collaborate-Exclusive-NFT-Collection-to-Release-on-th-Wedding-Anniversary-of-Kate-Middleton-and-Prince-William/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/103946/zoobs-and-elmonx-collaborate-exclusive-nft-collection-to-release-on/       ]]>
"ElmonX Launches Highly Anticipated NFT Collection: 'God Save the Future Queen' and 'King of Pop' Artworks Transformed into Exclusive Digital Collectibles!

On April 29th, 2023, ElmonX, based in London, UK, will launch their highly anticipated ZOOBS NFT collection, coinciding with the 12th anniversary of Kate Middleton and Prince William, as well as the 12th anniversary of the original 'God Save the Future Queen and King of Pop' editions unveiled at the Opera gallery. The original ZOOBS were acquired by Dolce & Gabbana and displayed at the Bond Street gallery for 6 months after being featured on BBC. Later, they were showcased at Dolce & Gabbana's menswear store in Bond Street during the grand opening, attended by celebrities like Kylie Minogue and Roberto Bolle. The ZOOBS collection remained at the store for an impressive 7 years.

ElmonX’s notable NFT releases include: the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh and world-famous artists such as: Patrick Hughes and Cécile Plaisance.

About Zoobs:

Zoobs Ansari, a British artist of Indian and Pakistani heritage, draws on personal experience to explore society's obsession with physical perfection, popular culture, and celebrity. His works, which include photography, audio, video, sculpture, and performance, reflect influences from art, fashion, film, and music. Zoobs' childhood experiences, including the sudden death of his father and struggles with assimilation in different cultural environments, deeply affected him and fueled his artistic expression. After a career in commercial photography, Zoobs shifted to more personal work, experimenting with mixed media and creating unique portraits that garnered acclaim. Inspired by Warhol, Zoobs' recent work delves into the consequences of an obsessive pursuit of fame in the age of social media.

In the Zoobs collection, there are four different digital collectables:

The collectibles part of the ZOOBS collection include:

God Save the Future Queen Original 333 editions
King of Pop Original 333 editions
God Save the Future Queen Artist Proof including a Physical Print 13 editions
King of Pop Artist Proof including a Physical Print 13 editions

Ownership of the Artist Proof edition unlocks a physical hand signed ZOOBS limited print using 100% cotton heavyweight paper that features a premium matt inkjet coating, meeting the highest industry standards for density, color gamut, color graduation, and image sharpness.

About The Drop

God Save the Future Queen & King of Pop:

In 2011, British artist Zoobs Ansari created two mixed media art works titled 'God Save the Future Queen' and 'King of Pop', featuring Prince William and Kate Middleton, now the Prince and Princess of Wales. Measuring 48 inches x 36 inches, these works were created on wood, combining digital imagery, lettering-montage, and Zoobs' signature paint work. They were part of a series of works he called 'scrolls', which he started creating on wood after initially using heavyweight art paper. The works were framed in Victorian frames adding 12 inches to their size, and were unveiled at a gallery in London, generating global media coverage and eventually being acquired by Dolce & Gabbana. Limited edition prints were also released and sold out within a week. Inspired by the 'Sex Pistols' vinyl record artwork, the works will now be released as interactive NFTs on the 12th wedding anniversary of the Prince and Princess of Wales, approximately 12 years after they were first created.


About ElmonX:

ElmonX uses an immutable, decentralized blockchain database for tracking digital assets. Collectors can interact with NFTs through augmented reality, and mobile apps are available in beta for users to reserve usernames.

ElmonX's apps are currently available to download in beta and are designed to improve the NFT collecting experience for licensed products, art, digital products, animation, and experiences.

How to Purchase:

The NFT collection can be accessed at https://elmonxplus.com/ on a first-come, first-served basis. Each individual is eligible to acquire up to 3 NFTs per original collectible, with a maximum of 1 Artist Proof edition allowed for each.

ZOOBS NFT Launch Date: Saturday 29th April 9AM PT (5PM BST)
Available at: https://elmonxplus.com/

To stay up to date, follow ElmonX on social media: https://linktr.ee/elmonx

Media Contact:

ElmonX
Attn: Media Relations
London, UK
support@elmonx.com
      
]]> Mon, 24 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/103932/pce-automation-of-beccles-suffolk-wins-the-inaugural-king-s/ <![CDATA[PCE Automation of Beccles, Suffolk, wins the inaugural King’s Award for Enterprise 2023 (EMBARGO APPLIES)]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/736495994/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~PCE-Automation-of-Beccles-Suffolk-wins-the-inaugural-King%e2%80%99s-Award-for-Enterprise-EMBARGO-APPLIES/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/103932/pce-automation-of-beccles-suffolk-wins-the-inaugural-king-s/       ]]> Manufacturer is honoured with the UK’s most prestigious commercial award for innovation

Beccles, Suffolk, 21 April 2023. PCE Automation Ltd today announced that the company has been awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise, in recognition of its excellence in innovation.

PCE Automation Ltd specialises in bespoke automation, repeat automation, and value-added services, including pre-automation and aftercare services to address the varying needs of customers across a range of industry sectors including ocular, medical and pharmaceutical. Its product handling, assembling, and testing systems have a global reputation for innovation and quality. Founded in 1961 by Ernest James Cook, the company was previously awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2020 for international trade putting it in a select group of companies who have won both the Queen’s and King’s Awards for Enterprise. PCE is a trusted partner to many blue-chip, industry-leading life science organisations around the world.

The Prime Minister, Rt. Hon Rishi Sunak MP, recommended that the company should receive one of the inaugural King’s Awards for Enterprise, in recognition of a key innovative project in the ocular sector - which it delivered for a major global manufacturer of contact lenses. The project enabled the manufacturer of ‘made to order’ on demand (MTO) silicone hydro lenses to reduce its lead times to the end-user and greatly enhance the efficiency, flexibility and scalability of the manufacturing process. In doing so, the company has uncovered major commercial opportunities and an increase in market share. Not only was the manufacturing time cut, but the productivity output was increased by circa 360%.

CEO, James Cook commented “The King’s Award for Enterprise is the most prestigious British business award because of its provenance as the Queen’s Award. To be recognised for our contribution to innovation reflects the huge team effort made by each member of our staff to develop a range of world-leading solutions with innovation incorporated across the board - in design, project management, engineering and software programming.”

Employing 99 staff at its Beccles headquarters and 22 at its Lutterworth site, PCE is focused on staff empowerment, achievements and well-being and has exciting expansion plans to develop its site, recruit more staff and expand its presence within Europe. In 2022 PCE announced an ongoing acquisition of an Irish organisation, which will see it become a multinational corporation, helping to expand its geographical presence and diversification into numerous automation growth sectors.

MP for Waveney, Peter Aldous MP, supported the application for the King’s Award for Enterprise and has taken an active interest in the company. He commented, “Congratulations to the team at PCE Automation on this prestigious accolade. With a focus on empowering employees, PCE is a business of which East Anglia and Suffolk can be proud”.

In its inaugural year, the King’s Award for Enterprise follows 57 years of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, where previous winners included J.P Morgan, iCandy, Veolia and Willmott Dixon.

The next celebratory steps for PCE include a listing in a special edition of the London Gazette, published in April, which will carry the names of all of the winners. The London Gazette is the oldest English newspaper and is an official journal of record of the British Government. A Grant of Appointment ceremony will take place at PCE’s office (date tba) with the county’s Lord Lieutenant and local VIPs. The Lord Lieutenant is His Majesty The King’s local representative and will personally present a crystal trophy to the PCE team. In addition, CEO, James Cook will visit Buckingham Palace in the summer for a celebratory reception, which is hosted by His Majesty King Charles III.



- Ends -

Notes to Editors:
To arrange media interviews commencing 21st April 9am, contact Ollie Cook at PCE Automation Ltd on o.cook@pce-group.co.uk 07808 549600
Images attached:

1. James Cook
2. Beccles Site (drone image)
3. Manufacturing process
4. PCE logo
      
]]> Fri, 21 Apr 2023 01:00:00 +0100 https://www.responsesource.com/news/103918/exciting-things-are-happening-on-london-southbank-and-you-re-invited/ <![CDATA[Exciting things are happening on London Southbank, and you're invited to the party]]> https://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/735957053/0/sourcewireentertainmentandarts~Exciting-things-are-happening-on-London-Southbank-and-youre-invited-to-the-party/ https://www.responsesource.com/news/103918/exciting-things-are-happening-on-london-southbank-and-you-re-invited/       ]]>

Camm & Hooper is inviting you to an experience like no other, to immerse yourself in a turning point of the events industry. Join us for what will be a magical, unforgettable experience for extraordinary people, by extraordinary people. Hosted at one of London’s secret-gem venues with a surprising history and breath-taking views, the OXO2 will spark your imagination alight. Events are back.

You’ll get a flavour of what world-class hosting really looks like, along with a taste of Camm & Hooper’s award-winning delectable dishes, distillations and infusions.


Date: This Wednesday, 19th April
Time: 5-10pm - drop in any time
Location: OXO2, South Bank, London


· Learn the new chapter of the Camm & Hooper story first hand from the Magic Makers
· Delectable dishes - salivate over award winning food dishes across a range of 5 different themed stations.
· Taste the magic. Boundary-pushing combinations and unique flavour creations, made uniquely for this event, from The Cocktail Guy, Rich Woods
· Innovative infusions by the glass from our Liquid Chef
· Iconic NEW venue on the second floor of OXO Tower – enjoy a guided tour
· Panoramic views of the River Thames and the London skyline
· Located at the heart of London’s South Bank and Bankside
· Special surprises, activities, and installations!


- Meet the team -

The event will be a celebration of legacy and the unveiling of an extraordinary new chapter.

Meet the new senior leadership team: CEO Derick Martin; CFO, Natalie Sykes; COO James Robson; and Marketing Director Qamile Zejnullahi, as well as our team of magic makers and shakers.

Learn more about how the world of events is changing and Camm & Hooper’s vision to revolutionise the events industry as we know it, building a new reality.


PLEASE RSVP TO CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE
      
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