Interview with Isadora Vibes of Short Sharp Shock.

By Jade Duggan 

The first Short Sharp Shock at The Square was a great success.  Could you please explain to those who did not make it the experience?
Yes – we were thrilled with the feedback. As a new performance collective it was important for us to find the right venue plus I wanted to find somewhere suitably intimate that wasn’t part of the mainstream spoken word scene. The Square was a perfect fit for us – it feels quite retro but also classy. Sumptuously subterranean..just like our performance I guess.

 As the leader behind this innovative show, where did the idea or need to create Short Sharp Shock come from?
As a female performance poet, I was never comfortable with the slam scene or indeed open mics. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to do them – more that my kind of poetry needed a certain kind of space. A silence and time for contemplation. To soak in what I’m saying. Plus much of my performance work is quite adult in theme. I wanted a show that the audience would enjoy listening to as much as I enjoyed performing. Without having to relay lines at a great rate of knots and try to be funny. I find a lot of spoken word nights are too long and don’t do justice to the work.

 Your background covers spoken word and performance art; both of which you use in Short Sharp Shock.  How does the use of both of these enhance the experience for the audience?
Spoken word can be very rich and concentrated. It’s quite an intense listen at times and so having something different to break that up works really well. I am completely in awe of the performance artists I have in Short Sharp Shock. They are all amazing individuals and quite breathtaking in their vision and art. I wanted the show to move into the audience rather than being on a stage at a distance. Their visual presence and expression combined with the lyricism of the poets words is quite unique. The audience feedback certainly indicates this.

 Within this you explore erotically lead feminist poetry but yet are quite clear this is not titillation or burlesque.  How would you define yourself from these two genres?
When I first started writing performance work, I realized that a lot of the poems were adult in theme. It was almost by accident in some ways. My inspiration was coming from a number of real and imagined experiences. I write about things we all know about but maybe wouldn’t want to talk about or express in public. Then I take those images and reinterpret them into something quite different taking the listener on a journey into a new and adult world. It’s thrilling to see the reactions on the audiences faces as they connect with the subjects. I love it. Part of my feminist stance is rooted in the belief that we all deserve an adult life and to be able to express this. To have a sexual identity and personality as a woman is part of that. In my poetry, I hope that by talking about quite explicit things women can be empowered to celebrate their sexuality. I think there is a place for both Burlesque and what adult themed spoken word cabaret/theatre. We entertain using words and tableaux mixing cabaret with theatre. Burlesque is very popular which is great but I would also encourage new spaces for women to express their sexuality which is less traditional. I would love Burlesque performers to come to the show and see what we do. I am sure we could learn a lot from one another.

 Short Sharp Shock is an all female performance cast.  Could you please explain more on the female narrative in your shows?
The stories, poems and images all come from either our own experiences or from a feminist inspired theme or narrative. For example, our next show is called SOMNIA and will feature words, visuals and music connected with sleep and the subconscious but all from a female perspective or vision. This allows huge scope for lyrical expression and creative performance. This is a show by women but is very much for a female and male audience. I find that the men often get more out of this than the women. It’s a great way to view the inner psyche. An insider view with a ringside seat. For some people it is literally life changing! Whatever happens they never seem to view poetry in the same light again.

 How did you meet each performer? Each is very unique – what do you feel it is that they bring to Short Sharp Shock?
Fate. It really was like that. I knew Sophia from a performance we worked on in Dorset called Beats from the Boudoir but the others all came to me by chance meetings or in response to a call out on the Bristol Theatre website. Izzabella I met studying silk climbing at Circomedia, Jo at a spoken word night. Half the cast are  from European countries outside the UK which I find quite significant. I find European performers very enthusiastic and free. They are a real inspiration to me and I have learnt a lot from everyone in the group. Despite this being my creation, I do see myself as more of a curator now. I trust each performer to work on their own individual characters/pieces. We then come together and work out how things will fit the theme and flow of the evening. I never wanted things to be scripted. We take risks and trust one another. It adds a very different energy to the night.

Finally, what is your overall vision and direction for the show?
My overall vision is for a show that can reach out emotionally and creatively to the audience. To educate, inspire and entertain. To move people. To see them yearn and be transported into another world. I want people to have the kind of intimate experience using words that they couldn’t have anywhere else. The show is a confessional. Sometimes dark, sometimes light, as six performers we invite you into our lives, our heads, our hearts, our very souls. Yes we may shock a little but we embody a truth that needs to be heard. Poetry is such a free and creative way to express. You can take the crudest of subjects or the most devastating of experiences and turn them into something beautiful and memorable. I want this show to break new ground in poetic expression and in the female experience.

By tickets to SOMNIA  

Meeting room in Bristol at The Square Club

A unique meeting space for networking, training and seminars.. 

Have you have been looking for a meeting space in Bristol to hold a networking evening, or just somewhere new for training seminars?  Step away from the obvious choice for function hire and enjoy something a little different. The Square has its own identity which sets itself apart from the crowd.  Offering a fresh and inspiring space, unique contemporary décor, highly skilled friendly staff with a touch of exclusivity.

Features include:

• Wifi throughout

• Large screen projector for presentations and video + microphones

• Comfortable seating and tables

• Outside terrace area

• Private cocktail bar

• Award Winning Restaurant with sociable seating

Looking to expand your business connections?

We hold monthly networking events to cover all needs from women in business to those with no time for networking!

 YENA – Young Entrepreneurs Networking Association

 

Connect at Business Breakfast Networking

 

Want to find out more about using the Square for your business needs? Find out more or call 0117 9210455

 

 

 

 

 

Are you planning a party this summer? Whether it’s a child’s party or a 40th birthday, we’ve got the best themes covered below!

1. Casino Night

Give a party a fun element with a casino theme! You could hire roulette table with a dealer to add to the authenticity.

2. Tea Party

For a more girly theme a tea party is a great idea.  You can buy vintage plates and tea cups from a charity shop, and use paper dollies, cake stands and bunting.

3. Mexican Fiesta

Decorations for a Mexican fiesta make a very colourful party! Make it fun by hanging a pinata filled with sweets, bring snacks such chips and dip and of course a sombrero!

4. 1920′s

Flapper dresses, fascinators, trilbies and cigars are great props for a rip roaring 1920′s party!

5. Beach Party

The weather in UK may not be warm enough to have an actual beach party, but you can always bring the beach inside! Blues, white and yellows are great colours for a beach theme.  Alongside boats, shells and starfish decorations to make guests feel submerged in the event.

6. 1970′s Disco 

For a totally groovy 1970′s party flares, disco balls and peace signs are a must.

7. Rock and Roll

Throw a fabulous 50′s rock and roll party.  Do the twist on the dance floor with girls wearing prom dresses and men in Chuck Taylor All Stars!

8. Masquerade Ball

 Masks, glitter and feathers all add to the decadence of a masquerade ball! You could go with one theme colour or invite guests to design their own masks.

9.  Karaoke Party

 If you feel brave enough try out a karaoke party! Either hold your own at home or hire a special venue.  You could hold competition between friends and give prizes to best (and worse) singers!

10. Al fresco dinner party

For a more low key event why not throw an al fresco dinner party.  Guests can enjoy a BBQ, hog roast and a selection of salad dishes alongside refreshing summer cocktails.  As the evening draws in light candles and fairy lights; a live band or music would complete the night!

Looking to hire a  party venue in Bristol? The Square has a cocktail bar, terrace and restaurant that can be hired for BBQs, hog roasts and more.

Find out more!

Welcome to the most Elegant Cocktail Bar in Bristol

The bar is available exclusively to members and hotel guests of The Square, but is also available to hire for private events. Our contemporary styled cocktail bar complete with chic VIP areas, dance floor and relaxed seating is perfect for making your occassion extra special. Whether you are on your Hen night, celebrating an engagement or turning 30, the exclusivity, stunning surroundings and welcoming service at the Square will wow your guests and make your party something to remember!

Here are a few of our top class cocktails which are available on our current Spring/ Summer menu:

Elderflower Smash: Finlandia Vodka, Bombay Gin, Elderflower, Apple, Fresh Lemon, Mint

Kir Royale: Cassis, Prosecco

Raspberry Collins: Plymouth Gin, Chambord, Fresh Raspberries, Fresh Lemon, Gomme

Cocktail Masterclass (£27.50 per head)

The perfect way to celebrate your hen or stag night, birthday or simply spending the evening with friends trying your hand at something new! Our cocktail masterclasses are led by highly trained, charismatic bar tenders ready to show you how to make some tantalising cocktails complete with plenty of laughs!

Q. 1) Where did the idea for Connect Networking come from? Could you see a gap for this type of event in Bristol?

I belonged to several other respected networking groups in Bristol and I loved the positive impact networking had on my business.  However over a period of time I started to realise that there was a gap in the networking space for a group that catered for small to medium businesses, offering real value for money whilst at the same time offering value added training.  I felt that there was a real need for a group that offered genuine networking opportunities without the large excessive membership fees and one where like-minded business professionals could get the business support needed to move their business on to the next level.

Q. 2) What is your background in business and how do you think this helps you to ‘connect’ with those who attend?

Before setting up my own company, I spent over 13 years in a corporate role working with customers, suppliers, business to business contacts and end users, from the supply chain through to production and sales.  I am a local business owner and I understand all the challenges facing otherBristolowners and this knowledge helps me to identify with all our Connect members who essentially are local business owners looking to succeed in today’s economy.  Connect offers other local businesses a supportive network, one where we can proactively champion other businesses because we want them to succeed, it’s not about “givers gain”, it’s about working to help one another because we genuinely want to and this builds greater profitable support networks.

My Co-owner Nikki Ind has had many successful businesses over the last 20 years inBristoland her title of “business woman of the year” speaks volumes as to her experience in helping others to succeed and build a successful business.

 Q. 3) Which types of people or areas of business attend Connect?

Our Connect members cover a wide range of professions from Business Coaches, Solicitors, accountants, IFA’s, Mortgage advisers, property developers all the way to Spa Owners, therapists, virtual PA’s, venues, film producers, marketing, branding and much more.  We all share one thing in common, the desire to network professionally and with integrity with other like-minded business owners.  Making real connections to help each other grow their business, making new contacts and increasing sales.

Q. 4) Do you have any tips for people who are hesitant to attend a networking event?

Just go along and enjoy it.  Don’t be nervous about your 60 seconds (your business pitch) , just remember that everyone is in the same boat and we are all there to help each other.  A few golden tips would be to arrange 121’s with people so that you can get a greater understanding of their business and vice versa, try to be different with your 60 seconds (your business pitch) and try to make it memorable (for the right reasons) as this helps others remember what you are looking for.  Most importantly build trust with other people in the networking group, and you can do this easily by getting involved and being a regular attendee.  Just be yourself as people buy people and great friendships are formed.

Q. 5) Do you feel there is a best approach to networking so that attendees get the most out of their time at the event?

Be effective in the meetings- meet with other members.

Be active in the group- the more you turn up, the more people will keep you in their mind as they talk to others.

Be open minded- engage with all the members, you just never know where a lead or contact can come from.

Take advantage of any in house training and support, especially with the industry specialists and experts in the group as this is an invaluable tool, so utilise it.

Q. 6) Do you encourage people to connect after the event via social media or Linked in?

Linked In is an amazing social tool for all business owners.  We actively encourage our members to get involved in the Connect group on Linked In and we have a social media team who will use channels such as Linked In & twitter to find leads for our members and to engage with members.  Contacts are being made through Linked In and it is a powerful Networking tool for any Networking group or professional.

Q. 7) In your opinion, how does networking help develop a business and do you think it is essential practice?

Networking is a key marketing tool for your business.  It is also fantastic way for you to get affordable specific product training and knowledge across many different business topics.  It will help you to build your contact base of customers and suppliers and it’s an essential tool to use to promote your business to a wider target audience.   Networking plays a large part in my business and it’s been fundamental in helping me develop and grow giving me access to all types of information.  Networking can take a start-up company to the next phase in its development just by applying the knowledge sharing you get into your business.

Networking is simple but a powerful and effective tool for any professional business owner.

Thank you to Christi for her insightful answers and we look forward to hosting more Connect Networking events at the Square Club!

Connect Networking Website: http://www.connectnetworking.co.uk/

This is the first in a series of interviews with local arts professionals which aims to construct a vision of Bristol’s arts-scape from multiple perspectives. Below is our interview with Gemma Brace – Exhibitions and Membership manager at the RWA, Clifton.   

Q.1) What does your role of Exhibitions and Membership Manager at the RWA entail?

My role is incredibly varied and ranges from exhibition coordination such as liaising with artists, galleries and curators on the logistical aspects of exhibitions, writing interpretation text and producing an engagement programme of related educational activities, to practical help such as putting up price labels. I also look after our artist members which includes our Academician body of established, and in a number of cases, internationally and nationally recognised artists such as Richard Long and David Inshaw, as well as our relatively new Artist Network scheme, designed for artists at an earlier stage in their career.

Q.2) What do the RWA members receive?

The RWA members that I work with are all artists so their benefits are based around exhibition, promotional and development opportunities, for example membership of our RWA Peer Critique Group which provides a peer support network for critically engaged artists. We also have the ‘Friends’ membership scheme which provides the general public with an opportunity to support the RWA for just £35 a year. In return members are given free entry to our year round programme of exhibitions, invitations to private views and a variety of discounts in our shop, café and educational activities and events.

Q.3) Which has been the most challenging exhibition you have co-ordinated at the RWA?

Every exhibition poses its own set of unique challenges. For example we worked with Curator’s Coates and Scarry on the exhibition Unnatural-Natural History last summer and had to coordinate with 40 international artists based as far afield as Thailand and LA. We also hosted two artists from Belgium and Germany who created work on-site specifically for the exhibition within a tight time-frame. But the finished result is always worth it, and seeing the public, and so many of the artists who had travelled from amongst other places Italy and LA, arrive for the private view and finally visualise the realisation of the curator’s concept is what makes the process worthwhile.

Q.4) How do you feel institutions like the RWA shape the arts-scape of Bristol?

We are lucky in Bristol to have a number of institutions that respond to very different audiences providing a diverse range of artistic experiences from the traditional to the avant-garde. I think that there is a very important role to play for each organisation, including the extensive number of independent or grass-roots groups, galleries and venues now making a name for themselves.

Q.5) The RWA has showcased works by significant Young British Artists such as Tracy Emin and Damian Hirst – do you think it is important for big names such as these exhibit outside of London?

Definitely, I strongly believe that art should be accessible for everyone and that it is the role of galleries to generate conversation and interaction with audiences. For this to be successful there shouldn’t be a regional hierarchy in terms of what we display. For many, frequent trips to London, although inspirational, are simply not feasible, and we should be able to provide these experiences if not always at a local level then at least at a regional level. Sadly, these opportunities are often limited by funding.

Q.6) What can we look forward to in the upcoming RWA programme?

Our current exhibition Drawn will be continuing until the 2^nd June and provides an incredibly eclectic and accessible approach to drawing. As an exhibition it aims to raise the profile of drawing, exploring  both traditional and experimental techniques looking at drawing as an autonomous discipline and as an interdisciplinary tool. To encourage audience participation in the exhibition we have created an interactive artist-led studio space hosting several artist residencies and  providing drawing materials for the public to make use of, either drawing in-situ or around the building. We also have a number of exciting events supporting the exhibition such as Drawing Machines, showing families how to create drawing tools out of children’s toys, and an interdisciplinary panel discussion questioning why it is that we draw. Coming up we will also be working with Gloucestershire based artist Sophie Ryder, curating a project with the University of Bristol MA course, and of course announcing submission dates for our annual Autumn Exhibition, as well as other exciting projects which I can’t yet reveal!

Thank you to Gemma for her insightful answers and we look forward to the forthcoming RWA programme!

RWA: http://www.rwa.org.uk/

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1. Unusual lighting  

Make the lighting the talking point of the table.  Soft lighting during summer gives a wonderfully romantic ambiance to outdoor wedding receptions

2. A ceremony amid nature

If you’re a nature lover why not make a change from the usual wedding ceremony and take things outdoors? Lush British woodland, or rolling green fields create stunning backdrops and will wow guests.

3. Think local

.

Each area of the UK has an abundance of fresh local produce to choose from.  Whether it’s Somerset strawberries or Welsh lamb, surprising guests with the best picks of the region will  go down a treat!

4.  Keep it simple

Outdoor weddings are the perfect opportunity to use rustic, natural elements.  Our favourite ideas include picking wild flowers for table decorations, using untreated wood furniture and mismatched vintage china to give a chic boho feel to the day.

5. Be prepared.

Whilst your big day may be perfect – our weather is unfortunately not. If you wedding is outdoors make sure you are prepared with wellies, umbrellas and shelter for guests. If the sun is shining then parasols and picnic blankets come in handy!

Looking for that perfect venue for your wedding day? Take a look at our wedding brochure for a better idea on what The Square can offer.  A beautiful unique venue is perfect for outdoor weddings and parties.

• The Terrace

• Enjoy The Square’s secluded Terrace for al fresco dining, summer parties, BBQ’s and hog roasts. This beautiful outdoor space is now open for you to enjoy! Located just off the hustle and bustle of Park Street, this is the perfect place to unwind and relax whilst enjoying delicious food and a great selection of drinks. Lunch starts from just £5, view our menus and offers online. 

See our al fresco dining page for more information and sample menus: http://www.thesquareclub.com/terrace-home/al-fresco-dining/

Katalina Bath (artist) and Nicol Phillips (curator) on the exhibition The Midnight Sun @  the Square Club, Clifton

Private View Thursday 18th April, 7pm.

Launching on Thursday 18th April, the Square Club is playing host to an exhibition of the internationally renowned work of Katalina Bath. As the curator of this exhibition I wanted to do a piece in conversation with Katalina in order to delve a little deeper into this acclaimed artist’s work, and the thinking behind her progressive practice.

Please email nicol.phillips@cliftonhotels.com to add your name to the Guest List for the Private View. 

Nicol Phillips (NP) – Q.1) I understand you have previously exhibited at the Square – how has your work developed since your last show?

Katalina Bath (KB) – A.1) Previously at the Square I presented my paintings and screen-prints – these are traditional techniques which I continue to use and since I have taken up creating original digital prints based on photography, and some of these will be exhibited in this present show.

NP – Q.2) Having trained as a painter, what encouraged you to move into more digital territories (photography and the moving image)?

KB – A.2) I was privileged to have had both traditional Fine Art training in life painting, print-making and some other techniques as well as training in contemporary practices such as film and photography. This way I enjoy the freedom of creating and experimenting with both traditional and novel forms.

 NP - Q.3) What are your main influences in the two series: Midnight Sun and Gardens of Paradise?

KB – A.3) Midnight Sun is a series influenced by the spirit and atmosphere of a city, a city which doesn’t sleep during the time around the Summer Solstice when the sun does set in the North. Saint-Petersburg is a beautiful historic place built by Peter The Great and it is often called the Venice of North because of its characteristic architecture and its canals and waterways. The series are based on photographs which I took to capture the essence of the city’s feeling.

The Gardens of Paradise series has been inspired by the ideas around spiritual revival and

 growth in the year of 2012 which was famously predicted as the end of an era in history.

 I presented the passage of the soul from earthy to heavenly through dreamlike images of blossoming

flowers. 

In both series I used digital technology to create original compositions disposing colours and forms

as though I was painting with traditional techniques.

NP – Q.4) Having shot some of the images for the Midnight Sun series in Saint-Petersburg, and in looking to do an upcoming residency in Mexico, is travel a significant element of your practice?

KB – A.4) Travel helps me to find different perspectives, impressions and allows to meet other cultures, to learn from their experience, art forms and ways of expression – when possible I try to share those with the public as with this show.

NP – Q. 5) Are there any other Bristol based artists you would like to collaborate with?

KB – A.5) Bristol can pride itself with some of the best artists, musicians and film makers in the country so I feel very lucky to live and work amongst them and collaborate with some of them from time to time. I have created video-art in Bristol with The Cube Orchestra and I am deeply grateful for the support for my artwork of traditional techniques: to Davina Kirkpatrick for my stained glass artwork and to Matt Benton for the series of my enamel miniature-art pieces. I hope there will be many more opportunities for further collaboration with others.

NP – Q.6) If you were not an artist – what would you be?

KB – A.6) It is a difficult question as I have many interests. I am attracted by nature, music, philosophy, history. I might be a writer as stories embrace it all.

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Preview Night for Katalina’s latest exhibition @ the Square Club is Thursday 18th April 2013.

Winner: Tanya Smith

Cocktail: Rhubarb and Custard 

1 measure of Rum
3 measures of Rhubarb
A squeeze of lime
Vanilla Custard froth

Add 1 measure of rum to 3 measures of rhubarb syrup.  Add a squeeze of lime and pour into a martini glass.  Finish off the drink with a homemade vanilla custard froth.

Enter your creation!