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Harpendia
1. HARPENDIA PEOPLE, CULTURE & NEWS
SUMMER 09
Content
Pg.2 Fashion
Pg.3 Fashion
Pg.4 Fashion
Pg.5 Fashion
Pg.6 Fashion
Pg.7 Fashion
Pg.8 Fashion
Pg.9 Fashion
Pg.10 Cars
Pg.11 Wine
Pg.12 Travel
Pg.13 Art
Pg.14 Art
Pg.15 Art
Pg.16 Art
Pg.17 Environment
Pg.18 Picnics
Pg.19 Keeping Cool
Pg.20 Healthy Eating
Pg.21 Grow your own
Pg.22 Grow your own
Pg.23 Therapy
Pg.24 Appendium
Welcome to HARPENDIA Summer
Exclusive fashion articles...healthy eating...a wine maker
from OZ...art gallery tours ... Find out whatâs really
happening in Harpenden.
Reader response to the e mail in pdf format which the Editor and if it meets the
ïŹrst edition published in May makes it environmentally criteria of a forthcoming issue
was very positive, so I am friendly, leaving no clutter, your story could be featured.
pleased to continue the style and best of all it is completely I hope you enjoy the
and format with the Summer free of charge so please second issue. The Autumn
edition. The main feature forward it on to your friends, issue will be published in late
concentrates on the fashion family and all your network October and our web site will
business which is thriving connections. now be live in mid August.
thanks to so many talented HARPENDIA will be
Harpenden people. Several published quarterly with each Enjoy whatâs left of the
articles are EXCLUSIVES, issue featuring a balanced Summer!
covering diverse aspects of blend of articles, features and
the business, all of which I interviews on a wide range of Ron Taylor. Editor
think you will ïŹnd fascinating. subjects. info@harpendia.com
For those of you new to So if you have a story to
HARPENDIA, it is tell or a newsworthy item with
distributed quarterly via genuine appeal then contact
2. FASHION Summer
The Uma Thurman photo
shoot in New York for
Harperâs Bazaar. Read the
inside story, exclusively in
HARPENDIA.
Introducing Tom Usher
Art Director of Harperâs Bazaar
Tom Usher 36 is a Harpenden born into an emotionally stimulating
graphic designer having worked in creative design that not only sells
the creative industries for over 15 hard copies to consumers but also
years. In recent years he has been provides a vehicle for the editorial
responsible for the transformation of team to generate exciting content
FHM, Arena and recently Harperâs every month.
Bazaar to award winning magazines. Check out the Harperâs Bazaar web
Tomâs skill lies in his ability to site for all the latest fashion news.
understand the psychology of the www.harpersbazaar.com
magazine readers and translate that
3. Uma Thurmanâs New
FASHION PHOTO SHOOT
York Photo Shoot
I met up with Tom recently to discuss how
he approached the task of a major photo
shoot in New York with Uma Thurman, one
of the worldâs top actors.
I guess this photo shoot was pretty high
proïŹle, how did it originate?
We try to shoot celebrities instead of models for
the cover when we can as they usually sell more on
the newsstand. As with Uma sheâs one of the
hottest stars at the moment so we thought she was
a good idea.
The planning process must be ver y
complicated, can you explain the key
elements?
Firstly we decide on who we want to be on the
issue. Weâll pitch our concept to her publicist, In
this instance it was our july issue so we wanted it to
feel hot and summery. Once itâs agreed to go
ahead Iâll approach a photographer and talk him
though the ideas. Weâll meet up and go over
references of old shoots to get a feel for how we
want the pictures and cover to look.. The next step Check out the July issue above and see the results
is to get a fashion stylist involved with the clothes of all the hard work by the HarperÊŒs team.
choices. At this stage I hand it over to my
production director to ïŹnd the right location and Did you meet Uma prior to the shoot for a
sort out all the travel arrangements. brieïŹng?
The choice of photographer must have been No we met on the morning to go through the clothes
crucial? and concept.
It is. We work very hard to keep a great pool of Did Uma have any âDivaâ requests?
photographers that just shoot cover stories for No she was very sweet. She did offer to buy the location
Bazaar. We are in great position to use the worldâs as she fell in love with it.
best photographers because they know their On the day who looked after make up and
pictures will look amazing in the magazine. ïŹttings etc?
What is your role as the Art Director? We have a make up artist and hair stylist on the set.
Iâll come up with concept for the story and then on How easy/difïŹcult was it to work with
the day of the shoot ensure we are getting the Uma---did she have an entourage to look
right look out from the pictures by directing the after her?
photographer on lighting and composition and the She came on her own after she had dropped her kid
celebrity with their posses. I need to make sure off at school. Itâs all very low key.
that the cover image is the best shot and that it How many people were on the set and what
works as a commercial cover that will sell. Once duties did they perform?
the pictures have been shot Iâll lay them out in the Photographer and a couple of assistants, hair,
magazine and design the feature and cover. make-up, stylist, and me oh and her publicist whoâs
How was the location selected and how long there to make sure she was happy with it all.
did you plan for the shoot? Did you socialise with Uma after the shoot?
Iâll go through a location company and theyâll send No. Back to the hotel and then home the next day.
me images of different locations prior to shoot for How were the images selected for magazine
me to select. On this occasion it was on a rooftop feature?
in New York The photographer will email me a choice of about
Who had the responsibility for choosing the 5 for each shot and then Iâll sit with my editor and
clothes and accessories? pick the ones we want for the magazine
The stylist but working with me on the day to How about any gossip Tom?
make sure they look good on. I couldnât possibly tell you. Iâm far too professional!
4. FASHION FORWARD
Making my career in fashion journalism
By Elizabeth Lucy Richardson
My penchant for exquisite fashion design began long New York, presented itself to me. This opportunity
before my ïŹrst foray into fashion week. It began even gave me the chance to attend my ïŹrst London fashion
before watching stylists tweak the silky drapes swathing week. Known within the industry as the most creative
a model. Peering through the glass at the Victoria and and iconoclastic of all four fashion capitals, London
Albert Museum at the timeless elegance of Christian Fashion Week celebrates its 25th birthday this year. The
Diorâs early couture could make even the most sceptical careers of world renowned fashion designers such as
of fashionâs critics admit to the power of beautiful Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, to name two
clothing envisioned by the greatest designers. of Central Saint Martinsâ most celebrated alumni, have
Pouring dreamily over the glossy pages of Vogue and been launched from this platform. Running between
admiring the extensive knowledge of fashion of writer shows and peering from my lowly fourth row seat at the
Suzy Menkes only served to convince me further that I directional fashion editors of the British press was
should pursue a career in fashion journalism. endlessly exciting.
After gaining my BA in History, I secured place on the For the months running up to fashion week I had been
MA Fashion at Central Saint Martins College of Art charting the progress of one of the latest young
and Design. A college which occupies an austere designers to present his collection to the world press.
building on Charing Cross Road, the grey exterior With sculpted pieces, built in cobalt blue duchess satin
belying the wealth of creativity it houses and the and silk, he presented a unique vision of modern
inimitable roll-call of internationally successful alumni elegance. I watched as the reviews rolled in, knowing
it boasts. the true inspiration and level of dedication that had
In a small room tucked away from the design studios I produced that collection.
found seven other students, from as far as Singapore Being a fashion journalist means having a constant
and India, with the same aspirations. Together we curiosity for the zeitgeist, a love of mesmerizing images
explored the libraryâs Vogue archives, from the iconic of everything from street style to luxury fashion, and a
American Vogues of Diana Vreelandâs editorship in the desire to translate the language of fashion design into
60s to the hypnotic styling of Carine Roitfeldâs Vogue savvy and relevant copy. I have yet to decide upon my
Paris. We experimented with street style photography, niche within the industry, but for now I look for further
endeavoured to improve our writing and tried to make opportunities to paint arresting vignettes of a world
our names heard above the hubbub of the industry. which I have admired for so long.
Last February, the chance to be the London Photo captions: Top left: MA Journalists lent a hand at the
MA show during London fashion week.Top right: The Sinha-
Contributer for an alumniâs journal, Dossier, run out of Stanic A/W 2009/10 show. Bottom left: My view of the MA
show during fashion week. Bottom right: Oden Wilson's line
up of his graduate collection.
5. AT LAST.....
FASHION FORWARD
DESIGNER
GEAR FOR
MEN IN
HARPENDEN
Until now Harpenden men have
been starved by the lack of a
fashion boutique with main line
designer brands. Now thanks to
the owners of Purple there is a
superb new store just off the
High Street at 1 The Forresters Opening night celebration above Duncan Michie (left), Andy
only a few yards from Oui Set with Purple Directors: Michie and Paul Monks (right)
and Ladbrokes.
It carries a wide range of clothes The owners of Purple are No need to worry as Paul and his
from Armani, Hugo Boss, Gant, experienced fashion operators staff will recommend whatâs best
Lacoste, Nicole Farhi, Ralph having stores in Hemel for you. And as a bonus there is no
Lauren and Stone Island. Plus Hempstead and Slough for 25 charge for shortening jeans or suit
Mulberry leather accessories, years, so they know a thing or two trousers.
Welder fashion watches, and a about the business and pride The store itself is a haven of
small selection of shoes from themselves on offering quality with air conditioning, chilled
Puma Black Label and Hugo exceptional service with good out music and easy to see racks
Boss. There is also a large choice value for money. Take a look and shelves of clothes. If you
of Hugo Boss Super 100 all wool round their store and you may plan to stay a while to buy your
suits, matched with formal shirts, have difïŹculty choosing the style clothes then indulge in a cup of
ties and blousons. and colour that suits you. freshly brewed coffee. Open Mon
- Fri. 9.30 - 5.30 & 9.30 -6.00
Saturday.
New stock is constantly being
introduced into the store as lines
sell out and the seasons change.
Have a chat at any time with Paul
Monks the Store Manager and
Business Director to ïŹnd out
whatâs new.
Purple, 1 The Forresters, High
Street, Harpenden. AL5 2FB. 01582
763791. "www.purplefashion.co.uk
(on line from early September)
6. FASHION FORWARD The talent behind the glamour-
Pattern cutters
Have you ever wondered how a fashion
designer's dreams are turned into the reality
of a ïŹnished garment?
It's all down to the skills of the pattern
cutter who translate the original concept via
several stages into workable fabric modules
that are stitched together to create the
ïŹnished masterpiece.
Harpenden's Maureen Yvonne is one of
the best in the business having studied at the
prestigious London Arts University and
Central St. Martins where she gained a BA
Honours in Fashion, a Post Graduate
CertiïŹcate in Innovative Pattern Cutting and was called upon for her expertise in the
an HND in Clothing Technology from the contribution to Kangst collection as their in
University of Creative Arts in Rochester, house innovative pattern cutter.
Kent. Not one to be restricted to just fashion,
Maureen has previously trained, Maureen is also a qualiïŹed make-up artist
partnered and worked alongside some of which provides for an excellent ability to
Europeâs best tailors, designers and fashion complete the perfect look from head to toe,
show co-coordinators. textile to cosmetics, when designing her
As a design room assistant for the collections and consulting the image of her
infamous Mr. ANT who operated as a private clients.
label in Shubbette of London, plus the hands Whilst working alongside GMTVâs Mark
on training obtained and knowledge gained Heyes (stylist to Lorraine Kelly), the event
from the mentorship with the âBritish called âEthical Fashion and Conscious Style
Bespoke Royal Tailor, with a Royal Warrant Event at the Victoria and Albert Museumâ.
for H.R.H the Queenâ G.D. Golding. Her role was to deconstruct to reconstruct an
However it doesnât stop there, Maureen old denim outïŹt as new, in stages to inspire
has always enjoyed the highlights of dressing and teach the general public.
models backstage at numerous fashion shows 3rd Dimension (3rd 4 Records), have also
for the likes of Custo Barcelona, Swimwear requested Maureen Yvonne, as the chief
designer Melissa Odabash, International fashion designer, pattern cutter and tailor for
designer Giles Deacon, Stylist Katie Burnett their Signed Artists Debut release in 2009.
and more recently up and coming designer Maureen Yvonne currently works as a
Jade Kang of Kangst for his Autumn/Winter freelance fashion designer and an elitist
2009 to 2010 collection shown at the innovative pattern cutter in her own fashion
Vauxhall Scout Fashion Week and Maureen business MYR.
Maureen Yvonne
Fashion Designer &
Stylist
0709 229 2098
8. FASHION FORWARD
THE FASHION FRIENDLY
STORE
Fiona Grant interview with the Editor
What is the ethos of the brand
Oui embodies the âlanguage of
womenâs fashionâ, in a symbiosis of
French styling, Italian aesthetics and
German expertise whilst still being
unique. This is where art, design and
expression fuse together and gives the
WOW factor that fashion needs. Oui
has a contemporary design which
underlines every personality of a
modern woman no matter what her
age. Quality is the top premise and a
harmony of contrasts and colours
contribute to give our ladies an
individual style.
How would you deïŹne the Oui
image
Oui offers contemporary ladies fashion summers or with boots and opaque new design trends are. This also helps
collection from sizes 8 to 20. The tights when our autumn ïŹnally arrives. us guide are customers on which pieces
collection has many different facets It may seem strange that autumn are best for them to buy to extend their
collections are being delivered now and capsule wardrobe out of the current
which enables our customer to buy into
spring start arriving in November but it collections in store.
an individual capsule wardrobe or just
makes the shop very exciting as there is How do you decide what is going
the one off WOW pieces. To complete
the look we are stockists of Dyrberg/ always something new to look at and to be fashionable
Kern jewellery and Osprey ïŹne indulge. I think the future will be less Buyers do not really decide what is
handbags. season derived and our customers will going to be fashionable. The trends
With all of us enjoying this long embrace the new collections as and come from the fabric designers who are
hot summer shouldnât your store when they arrive. We have deliveries ïŹrst in the design chain, coupled with
still be full of summer stock. every 10 days which always generates a the forecast analysts who predict shape
Although Autumn deliveries are buzz. and form. Then the designers from the
When did you start the buying different brands start designing with the
arriving in fast they have now been
process for Autumn/Winter fabrics they can purchase, whilst using
designed to be worn as soon as they are
We start buying approximately 7 the predicted shape/form. The Oui
delivered. The ïŹrst deliveries mainly
consist of beautifully cut short sleeve months in advance and we visit the designers then put their mark on the
dresses perfect with sandals for our hot London showroom 3 times a season. It underlying trends predicted in order to
is always very exciting to see what the produce their collection.
Fiona Grant Analyst, and Graduate from
Harrods Retail. We believe in
owner of Oui talks
making fashion fun but always
about her store. with the upmost professionalism.
How long have Oui been
established in Harpenden Our warm, relaxed atmosphere
I opened Oui as a family hopefully is always inviting and
business over 14 years ago with everyone is welcome to browse
my mother Pam. I graduated the latest collections or have a
from London College of Fashion personalised shopping
with BA (Hons) in Clothing and experience. We offer next day
had always dreamed about service on alterations and special
running my own retail business. orders within 3 days.
Our staff have also a wealth of Ouiâ 14 Bowers Parade,
experience including a Colour Harpenden. 01582 766142
9. FASHIONFORWARD
DRAPERS AWARD assistants are in the business
âBRAND OF THE YEARâ because they want to help and be
supportive and friendly to their
This special accolade was customers. She proves that
awarded to Ouiâ-Set in relationships between retailers and
Harpenden for Brand of The customer are paramount. I am so
Year, voted by the fashion appreciative when a customer tells
industry. me exactly what they want if we
What inïŹuences your decisions havenât got it as it allows me to be
We buy from a design led proactive in searching for that item
collection and I notice the main and sourcing it for them. Customer
trends very quickly. Then I buy the service is paramount for all
collection in a way that I think my businesses.
customers would like to wear it How do you market the new
whilst always pushing the trends range to your customers
forward. Fashion should be fun and We mail shot our customers
never remain static. when the new collections start to
Are the fashion magazines a arrive often offering a late night
good guide champagne reception evening. A
Yes, Vogue always show the fantastic girly night, we all chat,
latest trends from the top designers. laugh, drink champagne, eat
Those trends diffuse down through chocolate and have fun with fashion.
the fashion hierarchy. We also have a wish list and
What about Fashion on TV telephone our customers when their
I love Gok Wan for his passion for must have items have arrived.
fashion and he is a true stylist born Window displays are very important
and bred, not a television presenter and fashion shows can help
who have stylists backing them up. enormously.
He also loves the female form and In such a competitive local
boosts ladies self esteem. I feel it is market what is the secret of
so important for us to celebrate the your success.
female form as we all come in Itâs a combination of a fantastic
different shapes and sizes. I think it collection mixed with excellent
would be devastating if we all end customer service. We always have
u p l o o k i n g l i k e e a ch o t h e r. WOW pieces which may be slightly
Individuality reigns. more expensive but if your budget
Also I adore Mary Portas as she allows are amazing. Most important
proves that retail can be difïŹcult but we have fun with our customers and
the majority of retail and sales try to make everyone feel special.
CREATE A STIR WITH
LOUNGE LOVERS
trend âLounge Loversâ which is a
What is going to be the
âmust haveâ item for the collection of beautiful cashmere
Autumn mix cardigans and dresses, ideal
Two main trends for autumn, the for lounging out at home in front
âDressâ and âLounge Loversâ. of a roaring fire reading the
The dress is so versatile; wear papers, playing with the children,
with sandals now, boots later, or having friends round for
glam up with the latest Dyrberg/ Sunday lunch.
Kern statement piece for cocktail Pictured left.Pam Grant, Helen
wear, or a chunky cardigan for McNicholas (centre) and Fiona Grant
the school run. Then the latest
10. CLASSICS ON THE COMMON
Top left:
A Ferrari 360 Modena F1
which is a 3.6 litre
normaly asperated
engine pushing 400hp.
It's a 2000 model year
with Ferrari race wheels,
Scudera Shields on the
front wings, F1 paddle
shift gear box, full race
seats and harness seat
belts and a high
performance Capristo Â
exaust system. The 360
will achieve a top speed
over 190MPH and 0 to 60
in 4 seconds. Owned by
John Hanley. Featured
with Tammi Harris.
Plus lots of other classic
cars on the Common.
11. Champagne beating Bubbly from Harpenden
AWARD WINNING SPARKLING WINE
Islay Kennedy (below right) interviewed by the Editor
Unbelievable but true, the GrifïŹth Park
Sparkling Rose won a bronze medal in the 2009
International Wine Challenge and was the best
value sparkling rose in the competition to win a
medal at this level, matching many big priced
medal winning brands including Lanson Rose
and Charles Heidsieck Rose Millesime, costing
more than twice the price.
Itâs available now from Asda and Morrisons at
the incredible price of ÂŁ6.99* and itâs the work
of Harpenden wine maker Islay Kennedy, the
founder of GrifïŹth Park.
I wanted to ïŹnd out how a small family
business in Harpenden achieved distribution in
the top supermarkets so I arranged to meet
Islay over a glass of her sparkling rose.
What did you do to secure meetings with the hotels across Britain. Also on our web page each month we
supermarket buyers? offer the chance to win a case of GrifïŹth Park!
Having been in the UK wine trade and established as an How did you achieve reviews via the wine columns
Australian Wine Specialist for nearly 20 years I know all the in the national and local press?
key wine buyers so knew who to talk to. It always helps if you Fortunately due to the success of the wine in the international
also know the wines the buyer could be interested in stocking wine competition â Effervescents du Monde in 2007 when
as no point in trying to sell them a wine they already have on the wine was judged to be in the top 10 sparkling wines of
their shelves. the world the media have been extremely interested and
How did you âsell inâ GrifïŹth Park and secure shelf supportive of the wine. We liaise with all the national,
space? regional, local and lifestyle magazines on a regular basis.
I worked out that there was a gap in the UK market for a How do you manage the production of the wine?
quality but inexpensive Australian sparkling wine as in 2007 Every two months or so I go over to the vineyards in South
there was very little choice for consumers apart from East Australia and taste the individual wines that I
expensive champagnes and Cavas â this has now changed as recommend for the ïŹnal blend. As the wine is non vintage
new products have seen the gap also and extended their still we can use blends from other years to produce the perfect
wine range to include sparkling. But we were ïŹrst to market wine.
with an offer of quality and price. With all the travel involved are you looking for some
Did you have a mini wine tasting to prove how good closer European connections?
your wine is? At this stage GrifïŹth Park is an Australian sparkling wine and
We sent samples in to the wine buyer at Morrisons who tasted will be for the foreseeable future
it in comparison with their competitive brands and then
approved our brand.
How important was the branding.
The label design was crucial to our success with Morrisons
who wanted a label with a "WOW" factor. We briefed 4
Design groups to come up with an exciting concept. During a
six month period the concepts were presented and reviewed
before the ïŹnal decision was made.
Were their supply chain requirements daunting?
Not really as we have supplied all the large companies in the
UK wine in one form or another over the years.
Did you have a marketing campaign in place to
support the brand?
We have identiïŹed a gap in the wedding market to offer Finally, with UK consumers being accustomed to
couples the chance to save money at their weddings but still constant price promotions how do you ensure that
be able to offer their guests award winning sparkling wines at they see GrifïŹth Park as a quality brand and not just
a quarter of the price of champagne. a discount offer.
We are sponsoring some joint events with Glamour magazine The wine has been selling well since its launch in 2007 and
and BeneïŹt makeup (from California) in London over a does not just sell on promotion. Obviously when the price is
couple of weekends and also sponsoring with You and Your cut by ÂŁ2.00 per bottle then the volumes go up but otherwise
Wedding magazine a weekend of seminars in September for there are steady sales over the year.
prospective brides and their families. We will be exhibiting at * Price correct at press date of July 31 2009. Subject to
the National Wedding Show in October and are also joining availability.
up with the hotel chain Bespoke Hotels to be able to offer For more information and a chance to win a case of
consumers the chance to win a weekend break at one of their the wine go to: www.grifïŹthpark.co.uk
12. TRAVELERS TALES
Five star Italian spa
From our travel correspondent
Heal the soul and feed the mind.....How could I Award âBest Spa 2009â. You could just choose to be
intertwine these words into a holiday? Bagni di Pisa will really lazy and lie by the thermal ïŹlled pool. Being
fulïŹll your dreams. Step inside this 5 star hotel and you thermal the water is around 30c, after you get over the
enter an emporium of sumptuous decor, antique furniture, initial shock of hot water it is surprisingly refreshing. We
paintings and furnishings of the highest quality. Relax in decided to to meander through the winding olive groves
the library stocked with an amazing selection of art and which lead upwards to a beautiful ruined temple, the view
travel books. On arrival we were given robes and slippers from which was breathtaking, looking over Pisa and
for use in the spa, then taken to our room. Every bedroom surrounding countryside. Some of the more energetic
(or suite if desired) is different. Antique furniture, frescoes guests practiced yoga whilst butterïŹies danced amongst the
with cool smooth crushed stone ïŹoors and a king sized ïŹora and fauna.
beds, despite its large size it appeared minute in the large If you feel you can drag yourself away from this haven of
room. The bathroom complete with two sinks, shower and tranquility then Pisa is a must. Just 20 minutes in a car -
separate bath tub. Towels and beds were changed daily. yes it is touristy but the Piazza dei Miracoli is spectacular.
Each evening we ordered bellinis in the piano bar- We found a haven of peace and coolness in The
comfortable sofas, busts on plinths, paintings and a painted Botanical Museum garden (begun 1543-44) whose ethos
frescoed ceiling beïŹtting of Michelangeloâs Cisteen is of conservation and ecology. Another visit, again just 20
Chapel, whilst listening to the relaxing music from the minutes by car, is Lucca. An historical walled town, which
resident pianist. Dining on our ïŹrst evening was a can be âwalkedâ if you have the energy, or just do what
revelation, the cuisine both in choice and execution was the beautiful people do and sip cool drinks in shaded bars.
sublime. The daily changing menu beïŹt the diet and Towards the end of our holiday we were desperate to see
choice from âhealthy eatingâ to âloosen your belt eatingâ. the coastline which can be reached by car in less than 45
Being a vegetarian can often pose a challenge - usually the minutes. Viareggio is a busy seaside resort favoured by
ubiquitous risotto and omelette is offered, but not so at wealthy Italians as a summer retreat, offered everything,
Bagni di Pisa. I was presented with my very own sandy beaches and leafy avenues of elegant shops. Our last
âpersonal chef !â Whatever I desired, even if not on the evening in Bagni di Pisa was memorable, listening to a
menu was no problem. After a memorable dinner we Baroque Concert in the candle lit courtyard. The period
couldnât wait to see what breakfast had to offer. We were instruments, ïŹute, harpsicord and violin being played by
not disappointed - another banquet for lovers of good talented musicians. The air heavy with the scent of
food. Hand made breads of many varieties, yoghurts, fresh honeysuckle and jasmine -a step back in time. If this hotel
and dried fruits, various cheeses, meats, waters, teas, coffee is good enough for famous guests like George IV, Mary
and if you desired a bucks ïŹzz (prosecco and freshly Shelley and Gustav of Sweden (to name just a few) then it
squeezed orange juice) it was on ice. After these certainly is good enough for you!
temptations the Spaâs options may ease your guilty Full details can be found on their website.
conscience - thermal treatments, yoga, walking, steam www.bagnidipisa.com
baths, mud treatments, hydromassage and so much more.
In fact this hotel was awarded the Five Star Diamond
13. OPEN STUDIOS IN HARPENDEN
Artists welcome visitors to Open Studios
By Sue Gay
Between 12th September and 4th October Brochures are available that directory the
artists and craftspeople throughout exact dates and times that individual studios
Hertfordshire will be opening the doors of are open. You can pick up a brochure from
their studios and homes to the public. places like the library or the public hall and
There are twenty-three participating makers in from a number of the businesses in town.
Harpenden alone, with work ranging from jewellery, There is a map at the back of the directory that you
ceramics and textiles, through drawing, painting and may like to use to plan a trail that allows you visit
printmaking, to large-scale outdoor sculptures. Some several studios in the same day. Generally, the artists
of the artists will be opening for the ïŹrst time in 2009, are available at weekends, but some studios are open
while others are âold handsâ who really enjoy the on weekdays as well. And most of the studios can be
event and welcome return visitors year after year. opened by appointment if needs be.
One of the exciting things about Open Studios is the A number of Harpenden artists will be
diversity of the people who take part â from well- previewing their work ahead of the event, at a
established makers with a strong local proïŹle, to special âtasterâ exhibition mounted as part of
relative newcomers and emerging artists. the Farmerâs Market on 23rd August. You are
Entry is always free and gives you the cordially invited to come along and enjoy a glass of
opportunity to see the artists at work or giving wine in their company. If you like someoneâs work,
demonstrations. All creative people are passionate you might want to make an advance appointment to
about what the things they make and are always get along to their studio and ïŹnd that something
pleased to talk about their work with you. Some of special.
them even run classes or hold workshops in which Picture caption:
they will share their skills with others. Sue Gay, a painter based in Ox Lane, makes
And, of course, there is the potential satisfaction contemporary ïŹgurative works. She is shown here with a
of buying an original artwork directly from the work in progress called âTimes Are Tidyâ, inspired from
person who has crafted it. Or, perhaps even more the poem by Sylvia Plath, and another example of her
exciting, you could commission a piece of work that is
work (right)
speciïŹc to your own requirements. Most artists
Click on the link below for a pdf of the brochure:
welcome commissions and are keen to meet the
www.hvaf.org.uk/open-studios/OPEN-
clientâs needs.
STUDIOS-2009/Brochure
14. www.halimacassell.co.uk
GALLERY TOURS
ASTOUNDING.......
INNOVATIVE.......
UNUSUAL......
By The Editor
As a regular visitor to the Margaret
Harvey Gallery in St Albans I would
implore anyone with an interest in
art to visit the gallery soon, you will
be amazed by the quality and
variety of the exhibitions.
Critically acclaimed UH Galleries
are among the most innovative art
spaces in the UK. They pride DREAMS MADE MANIFEST
themselves on not only supporting Halima Cassell FORTHCOMING EVENTS
a n d e x h i b i t i n g t h e w o rk o f Halima is one of the UKâs leading As the winner of the Margaret
emerging British artists, but also young ceramic artists whose recent Harvey Open Exhibition 2008,
providing a platfor m for exhibition (3 June - 18 July) included Christina Bryant will be back in St
international artists wishing to enter trademark carved ceramic vessels Albans, July 31-15 Aug with her
the British art scene. Many of these alongside a series of new bronzes show âDRAWN ON, DRAWN INâ.
artists have since gone on to carve and sculptural work. She Christina explores the use of line to
signiïŹcant careers in contemporary concentrates on simple forms as the m a p e v e r y d a y, h u m a n
visual arts, crafts, applied arts and basis of her work in order to environments, and attempts to
design. During the winter of 1996 maximise the impact of the question and distort our relationship
the Margaret Harvey Gallery was complex surface patter ns in to these intimate spaces.
transformed by Andy Goldsworthyâs combination with heavily
installation; almost ten years later in contrasting contours. Then from Sept 2 - 3 October
2005 they exhibited the work of Visitors praised her work with there is an exciting photographic
now-renowned sculptor Eduardo comments like âHalima, your journey event.
Paolozzi. More recently they have into experimental ideas has resulted in âMAJORITY REPORT: AMERICA,
tactile sculptures - as a viewer (and AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY AND
been fortunate to mount exhibitions
THE INTERNETâ. Curated by
on artists such as David Moore, Heli artist myself) it is so difïŹcult not to
Roger Hargreaves it comprises a
RyhÀnen and Margareta Kern. In touch your work. The concave works selected snapshot of the state of
focusing on the work of emerging are as beautiful viewed from the inside
amateur photography in the digital
and sometimes, at the time, as from the outside. It is an age through a photog raphic
relatively unknown artists they hope inspirational exhibition.â ST. 20th narrative of America at a pivotal
to expand the ïŹeld of contemporary June 09. moment.
art, bringing new work to national Visit Halimaâs web site for more info More events to be announced.
audiences.
MARGARET HARVEY GALLERY
7 HATFIELD ROAD, ST ALBANS. AL1 3RR
01707 284 290
OPENING HOURS
WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY 11.00am - 5.00pm
15. GALLERY TOUR -ON LINE
GALLERY TOURS
On line gallery viewing is becoming
ever more popular with so many of
the top galleries having access to
their work, not just in the UK but
around the world. Now you can log
on to the Saatchi Gallery, The Royal
Academy, Tate Modern and Tate
Britain to name just 4 and spend
the day clicking round some of the
worldâs most important galleries
looking at great works of art, all
from the relative comfort of your
home. Thomas Plunkett âChrysler Building New Yorkâ
There are paintings in oils, acrylics
and water colours, mixed media
assemblages and sculptures.
Mostly from UK artists but also a
few examples of Russian and Soviet
art.With prices ranging from a few
hundred pounds to several
thousand pounds there is an
extensive choice to satisfy almost
all tastes.
Of course the subjective nature of
Tony Briggs- âKate Moss circa 1992â art interpretation means that what
It will never replace the joy and I like may be disliked by someone
emotion of experiencing art âin the else. I spent a very pleasant evening
ïŹeshâ but at least it may give you reviewing all 32 artistâs work and
the inspiration to go and see it have nominated my favourite four:
âliveâ. Frank Taylor -quirky yet warmly
Local gallery A &K Wilson have appealing images in soft tones
their own web site on which they John Brown - powerful relationship
feature the work of over 32 artists related sculptures
they represent. I decided to take an Thomas Plunkett ARWS -
on line tour to see what they had to emotionally satisfying oil and ink
offer. A simple to navigate site with interpretations of of iconoic
each artist receiving a short buildings
biography, a description of their Tony Briggs - high impact celebrity
style and imagery, a summary of photographs
their work with several examples
showing dimensions, the medium John Brown
and the cost. âSafekeepingâ
Why not go on line yourself and see
how your choices compare with
mine?
Frank Taylor âBo-Kaap1â www.akwilsongallery.co.uk
16. SPECTACULAR ARTS FOR ALL THE FAMILY
CHILDWICKBURY ARTS FAIR
This yearâs Arts Fair proved to be a
spectacular success not just in terms
of the attendance and good weather
but in the wide range of exhibitors.
Not just the big names but lots of up
and coming artists and artisans with
traditional skills. Visiting the fair
over 3 days (July 3 - 5) at the
Childwickbury Stables I found an
arrray of exhibits to keep adults and
children of all ages engrossed and Music entertainment ranged
Into one of the main stable from rock, to punk and soul with
entertained.
buildings I found print maker day time performances and 2
My journey began with a visit to
Melvyn Petterson. I watched in evening concerts.
Natalie. The photographer with
wonder as a skilled craftsman
the Artistâs Eye. Awe inspiring talent
printed images from his own etched
in photography, life drawing,
plates on a small hand print press.
painting and print making. www.melvyn.petterson.com
www.bynatalie.c.uk
Close by I found artist and
printmaker Vicky OldïŹeld who
specialises in collage prints using
everyday materials to create soft,
tactile and atmospheric plant
studies. www.vickyoldïŹeld.co.uk
Next to see on my favourite artists
E y e c a t c h i n g, s c u l p t u r a l
was Katharina Kubrick, working
creations from top hat maker
not on art but her new passion,
Just next door was Emma Pyrah, Andrew Fisher caught the eye of
jewellery making. Painting is not
an abstract landscape painter using forgotten though, just temporarily. most ladies.
bold colours and shapes...joyous and on hold. www.ïŹshheadhats.com
full of life. www.emmapyrah.co.uk www.kubrickart.com
Then on to Yvonne Calsou who
had made the journey from Onto the fascinating world of wood
Toulouse. A painter who uses black engraving with a display of intricate
skill. www.woodengravers.co.uk
and white to create dramatic images
to reflect the power of nature. Finally cooking up a storm each
www.yvonne.calsou.free.fr day was Celia Brooks Brown, a
passionate cook and food writer,
famous for her many TV
appearances. Celia gave a number
of daily demonstrations on cooking
various vegetarian dishes and how
to cook with spices
www.celiabrooksbrown.com
17. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Shocking
treatment for
Harpenden fish!
By our Environment Correspondent.
Ask a Harpenden resident about the records. Itâs a technique where electricity is
River Lea and you will likely receive a used to stun the ïŹsh before they are netted.
varied response. Some may describe it as a It is a perfectly safe method where the ïŹsh
dirty, smelly backwater with little ïŹow and involuntary swim towards the electrode, at
no redeeming features; some may not even this moment a net is used to capture the ïŹsh
know it exists. Yet the river is home to a and then transfer it to a large oxygenated
healthy population of ïŹsh, the size of which tank. Every ïŹsh is subsequently weighed
may come as quite a surprise. and photographed before being carefully
The Leaâs source begins in Luton and released again. During the session the
continues its path parallel to the Lower environmental team netted more than ïŹfty
Luton Road where it meanders through the ïŹsh which included Chub, Carp, Perch and
ïŹelds and woodland of Luton Hoo, Barbel, the largest ïŹsh weighing close to
navigating past south Harpenden and 9lbs. Adam Ellis, one of the team leaders
eventually joining the Thames at commented on the ïŹne health of the ïŹsh
Leamouth. A few weeks ago a stretch of the and that the same stretch had produced
river just upstream from Batford Mill was good results for the past four years when he
being electro-ïŹshed by the Environmental ïŹrst studied the river. The ïŹndings suggest
Agency. Electro- ïŹshing is a common this stretch of the Lea has a healthy
scientiïŹc method used to sample ïŹsh ecosystem in which a good head of ïŹsh can
populations to determine their abundance, be supported for many years in the future.
health, and to compare year on year
19. Cool ways to beat the heat
KEEPING COOL THIS SUMMER
By our food correspondent
Who needs the hot weather to enjoy some of A LONG COOL BEER.....so refreshing.
the coolest products on the market right now. Well There as so many brands on the market these days
they may help to quench your thirst if the sun ever itâs difïŹcult to make a choice between the bland
arrives, but what the heck, just enjoy the moment. and the tasty. Local wine merchant Rollings
ITALIAN ICE CREAM.... WOW! Wine are selling a number of locally produced
Calling to De Angelis on Station Road recently I beers from the Tring Brewery that are packed full
was given an introduction to Italian ice cream. For of ïŹavour. I tried their âSide Pocket for a Toadâ
starters it is made entirely from milk, not cream bottled beer which has a ïŹoral aroma and a crisp,
and known back home as Gelato. Rocco the owner citrus ïŹnish. The beerâs unusual name comes from
imports this artisan gelato direct from Italy. Light an old Hertfordshire saying that means âof no useâ.
and full of the blended ïŹavours ( chocolate, vanilla, Well I can certainly think of a very good use for
berries, and pistachio) it is pure heaven to eat and this tasty beer!
also makes great milk shakes.
Rocco and a customer (below) enjoying gelato
cones
ITALIAN ICED COFFEE.....Mmmmmm! REFRESHING SOFT DRINKS
Ordering up an iced coffee at Saporito on Thereâs many a time when a simple fruit juice,
Harpenden high street recently I was given sparkling water, a ginger beer or a shandy will hit
another lesson about real Italian coffees. They are the spot. There are literally dozens and dozens of
called Caffe Fredo, being made with chilled coffee, brands around to satisfy all tastes or why not make
ice cream and a touch of sugar. The end result is your own with a base of sparkling water.
divine and extremely refreshing.
Abbey (right) and Monika on a relaxing break
with a Caffe Fredo and a Vanilla Cafe Fredo
20. HEALTHY SUMMER EATING
Freshly picked salads,
fruit and vegetables -
sheer heaven!
By our nutrition expert.
Summerâs here - thatâs ofïŹcial -
with temperatures rising, the chef
in your home breathes a sigh of
relief. Salads everyday - so no cooking.
These words can be daunting to
many - especially to those who are
always hungry after ârabbit foodâ.
If you plan your meals ahead you
can please everyone. Baked
potatoes or polenta (cooked, cooled -
cut into triangles and shallow fried
in olive oil) will satisfy the hungry.
Quiches - easy to bake at home or
purchase one of the many excellent
supermarket brands. Baby
vegetables, readily available at good
supermarkets or the Farmerâs days why not stay at home - eat your lovely, or try strawberries and
Markets, provide vitamins and picnic in the garden. Yes do all the rhubarb - remember that some
minerals. Carrots, peppers, usual preparations -involving the fruits cook quicker than others and
courgettes and peas are all children who love a bit of play may require being added separately
delicious, and can be enhanced by acting by mums and dads - make whilst cooking. All fruits require
an easy âdipâ using home made your picnic, pack up with everything sugar to taste and a split vanilla pod
mayonnaise or the best shop bought including travel rug and venture into adds a decadent ïŹavour that will
jar and stir in chopped capers - this the garden - it really is fun. If you linger - (oh yes donât be tempted to
is equally as good in the middle of forget something - well its not far to add water as the fruits come with
baked potatoes. Lighter foods return - and also if it rains, again, a their own juices) bake uncovered -
energise both body and mind - quick run back indoors - you can medium temperature - for 20
natureâs answer to anti-depressants. even ïŹnish off your picnic on the minutes - keep checking - some
Encourage your children to ïŹoor in a chosen room - and yes fruits take much longer. Cool to
grow their own salads. Let them spread out the travel rug - everyone room temperature and serve with ice
begin with something easy - cress will have such fun. cream or whatever takes your fancy
grown on damp muslin or even Summer Fruits. There are so - actually delicious with nothing
damp kitchen roll, once the children many to choose from and usually added. Want to create a mini
have given it a âtrimâ and eaten it they arrive all at once - if you WOW factor - buy or make some
they will be full of enthusiasm. Give become bored with fresh berries merangue bases - ïŹll with your
them their own special space in your then bake them - equal quantities of baked fruits and let your guests pour
garden (no garden then a couple of your favourites : black currants, red over their chosen cream/ice cream.
large pots or grow bags will sufïŹce) currants and raspberries are Its an easy sensational looking
lettuce and radish are fun to grow dessert, as well as tasting fabulous.
and even cherry tomatoes - how
exciting taking a packed lunch to
school with their own handywork!. I
began on a positive note about the
summer - but letâs be real - we have
had our fair share of rain. Picnics
at home! How many times have
you planned a picnic only to have
the heavenâs open just as you arrive
at your chosen spot. Well, on dodgy
21. GROWING YOUR OWN VEGETABLES
Rewarding times for allotment newcomers
Sally and Nick GrifïŹth report on their allotment experiences
Having moved to Harpenden and into a rented ïŹat, 4 months down the line, our plot is now so much
we thought we would chance our luck and put our part of our life we cannot think what life was like before
name down for an allotment as a substitute garden. we had it! We have made good in roads and planted out
Expecting to wait 2 years for a plot to come up, we were 1 of the 2 poles with lettuces, herbs, mangetout, corn,
surprised when 5 poles came up for the taking 7 months broccoli and beans to name but a few. We enjoy many
later. a sunny afternoon at our plot weeding and planting,
The allotment started life with us totally overgrown and it has become part of the Harpenden tour when
with thick grass a couple of feet high - quite a friends and family come to visit â whether they like it or
challenge, however we started our new adventure with a not, we are proud!
lot of enthusiasm and not much knowledge â only that We have learnt about how to beat off pigeons (not
gleaned from a borrowed âBeginners Guide to literally), make compost, deter slugs and most
Allotmentsâ book. importantly grow from seed â much more cost effective
The ïŹrst job was digging, the second job was in these credit crunch times than buying plants from the
digging and the third job â you get the picture. In local nursery
between the digging, Nick tried out the house rotavator Of course some growth has been more successful
â it was fantastic comedy value as the rotavator ended than others but you cannot beat the feeling of visiting
up pulling him around the allotment. Our neighbour, your own bit of turf and picking some veg for your
Keith (also a newcomer) vowed that he would only Sunday roast, and offering up many a lettuce leaves to
rotavate his allotment after dark after seeing Nickâs friends and family!
efforts.
Lucky for us, Dark Lane allotments are full of Picture info above: Sally and Nick showing off
friendly and experienced allomenteers â all on hand to the rewards of their labour. Plus a look at some of
give advice as to which veg are the easiest to grow and the plot that still needs to be cleared ready for
how to grow them - we even got a few free plants more planting.
thrown our way.
22. GROWING YOUR OWN VEGETABLES
Green Fingers galore in the South
Harpenden Allotment Gardens Society
By the Editor
With over 400 plots, a 98% letting ratio and a waiting above with some of her superb crop of beetroots.)
list of 50, allotment holding has never been so popular Each of the nine sites has itâs own representative
in Harpenden. There are 8 sites of varying sizes spread who keeps an eye on the plots and looks to help out
over the Harpenden district governed by a hard where necessary. Shown below is David Ebbels of
working committee chaired by Clennell Collingwood Harpenden Rise tasting the ïŹrst of his early plums, a
(above) and renowned for having fun. Belgian variety called Sanctus Hubertus.
The 40th Anniversary Celebration Fete took place All plot holders are kept up to date with news via a
on a sunny July 5th at the Aldwickbury site where many quarterly newsletter â The Plot So Farâ, produced
site holders from all over Harpenden gathered to under the watchful eye of Publicity OfïŹce and
witness the ofïŹcial opening by Town Mayor, Councillor Webmaster Joan Graham.
Rosemary Farmer. Several hours were spent during the Having visited 3 sites recently I was amazed by the
afternoon enjoying drinks, a BBQ and lots of games. outstanding effort plot holders put into their allotments.
And for those who wanted to ïŹnd out more there was a Packed with vegetables of prodigious sizes, fruit laden
historical exhibition in The Ted Allen Room (below bushes and small trees and many super displays of
right.) ïŹowers. All members have use of the Society Shop in
Competition is intense between plot holders who Dark Lane. Open on Sunday morning, it is staffed by
compete every year for a variety of prizes with the top knowledgeable people and offers a wide variety of
one being the Chairmanâs Shield For Best Plot. The seasonal products at fantastic value.
current holder is Hazel Upton, Aldwickbury (shown If you would like more information about the
Society click on to their web site:
www.geocities.com/shallotments/
23. COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY
âIt is my aim to help
people to be the best
they can beâ
Lindy Fox, Harmonize
Harmonize your way to happiness
Having reported on the beneïŹts of lymphatic system. Had I not been in the best
complementary therapy in the Spring edition of health this treatment may have aided
of HARPENDIA I decided to explore the recovery.
subject further and try a treatment myself
courtesy of Lindy Fox. A Harpenden On July 7th Lindy offered sample treatments
resident for 30 years, she now runs the to members of the Harpenden Lawn Tennis
Harmonize Therapy Practice where she Club, as can be seen by the photograph above
offers a full range of Complementary where she is giving an Indian Head massage
Therapies including Relaxation Techniques, to one of the members. The evening proved a
Life Coaching, and Healing Meditation. great success with several members receiving
treatments.
These therapies can help if you are suffering
with stress, anxiety, pain, challenges at work, Before beginning any treatment Lindy will
phobias, and relationship problems. discuss your current life style, diet, problems
etc before deciding on a plan of action, so
Considering myself to be ïŹt and healthy you can be conïŹdent that you are being
Lindy recommended a detox foot bath to offered the right approach. She will refer you
demonstrate the efïŹcacy of the treatment. to other practitioners and counsellors if that
After sitting with my feet in a bath of warm is going to suit you best.
salted water for approx 30 minutes I was
astounded to see the water transform from Check out Lindyâs web site for a full range of
clear to light yellow, progressing through her services.
orange to dark brown with a greasy scum www.harmonize-us.co.uk
ïŹoating on the surface. After a thorough rinse Or call her on 01582 627224 or 07977
and soaping my feet felt incredibly clean. 584059
Lindy explained that the treatment had
removed toxins from my body via the
24. APPENDIUM
APPENDIUM
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY COMING SOON..............
12th September - 4th October
HOME ENTERTAINMENT
OPEN STUDIOS
The nights are drawing in so what
Artists from Harpenden and surrounding better time to look at all the new
areas showing their work. home technology around. Weâll be
talking with local experts to ïŹnd
out the best in home systems.
LITERATURE
With the advent of digital
technology, book publishing will be
changing dramatically very
soon.We will be exploring
developments, plus looking at the
work of local authors.
2nd September - 3rd October
MARGARET HARVEY GALLERY MUSIC
American photography exhibition Harpenden is alive with the sound
of music. Weâll tell you where to
ïŹnd it.
HALLOWEEN
Haunted houses...ghosts and
spirits. Harpenden has a history to
be investigated. We will reveal all in
time for the Autumn equinox.
A & K WILSON GALLERY PLUS
18th September - 3rd October Lots more interesting articles on
Station Approach, Harpenden. art, health and the environment.
Michael Ewart Painting Exhibition
SPREAD THE WORD - PLEASE
9th October - 24th October If you enjoyed HARPENDIA then
why not forward it on to friends
Peter Wileman RROI, FRSA
and family.
Painting Exhibition
REGISTER FOR FUTURE ISSUES
Simply send an e mail to the Editor
for your personal copy. And
remember it is free of charge.
info@harpendia.com
AUTUMN ISSUE LIVE ON
OCTOBER 31st.