Tag: #photography

Uncategorized

2022: CULTURE/HULL/GOOD LIFE

by anetesooda1 Comment on 2022: CULTURE/HULL/GOOD LIFE



As per tradition this blog post is here just before we clock off for 2022: mic-drop kind of send off from me.
It’s been a funny year you know, but amongst all the “life give you lemons, some good for a lemonade, some can go in the bin” there has been culture outings and some awesome jobs in the city.

You will see that my culture wonders are not as frequent in my 2022, but I still believe that our city gives us cultural treats for us to feast on and we embrace it. To some I wishfully never went to, but things I did attend made me smile, wonder and love the city (you know I am a big fan of Hull). 

This year was big and important for myself, and it was almost like stepping on the other side, where the light is.
The start of 2022 was tough and most days my head was rolling into the mud, my body trying to catch it, but I didn’t give in. New home came, I found somebody who is worthy of me trying to stay sane and hopeful for the future, then my new lush job came (job interview with a glass of wine and a onesie: not a luxury, but necessity), great freelance jobs kept popping up and then I found love. On the very last day of the year, I look back and it was the best year in decades. 
Today I am grateful and ready for 2023. 
We all know it’s going to be a difficult year, everyone skint and worried, world around us is falling apart, opinionated and angry species that poison the happy and good, climate change probably is going to throw some surprises our way and so on. 
As individuals we need to focus on our own good deeds, be nice and do our best, be open minded and engaged, care and love, respect and never take for granted. And the shit that come our way will be easier to deal with. Simple, isn’t it? And never forget about art and culture, we all need it in our lives.

Which brings me to my main subject: CULTURE IN HULL 2022

2022 started with a spectacular event across the city that Freedom Festival Trust trust brought to us: The Awakaning.  “It’s initial creation was a way of driving audiences to significant cultural landmarks within the city of Hull as part of an outdoor cinema experience. Beautifully using the environment and the historic buildings that line the streets by projecting on to them at night, Re:Score allowed the audience to connect with warm, nostalgic footage from the past with a reimagined, bespoke musical soundtrack.”  

Source: Freedom Festival Trust 

Amongst everyone’s favourite events in Hull the light shows will always be on the top of the list, to layer Hull landmarks in stories about Hull with visuals and lightshows works magic. The attendances were amazing and in my personal spectrum, me and my partner learned things as we went along. 

Ferens Art Gallery as usual gave an interesting exhibition BRICK BY BRICK by Andy Morris 

Designer Andy Morris, aka Little Big Art, is based in Cardiff and specialises in making LEGO® themed artworks. He has exhibited his work internationally. 

His work, Popcorn Time! 2018,  was exhibited in Ferens this year and aren’t we just lucky. It was fun, as cheesy as it sounds, but it was also very detailed and genius/beautiful. Kids area had a space to build your won and me at 32 seized the opportunity. 

At the same time there was more exhibits that tickled my fancy too:

Freedom Festival this year was not pencilled in my freelance diary, but on the last day I went out to see couple of the events. 

SIRENS at the Tidal Barrier, GF Smith PORTAL: A JOURNEY THROUGH COLOUR down Humber Street, 2Face Dance LAST ORDERS down Princess Dock Street were my last-minute choices. All of which brought smiles, inquisitive thoughts, questions and nevertheless another link to the city built through cultural experience 

GF Smith exhibition photographs have vanished in my archives, but one for the eye and memory I suppose.

UNBOXED ABOUT US in April was the favourite. I guess another light show in the city that was a visual spectacular, but for me it was very special. In silence at late hours, I visited Queen Victoria Square and found my seat. I watched it I my own time, in the space I built for my self with someone I love.  

I visited Humber Street Gallery on few occasions for leisure and work purposes, nice stroll down the lovely street always ends there.

BLOOMBERG NEW CONTEMPORARIES 2022 was hosted at the Humber Street Gallery in November. It contained various artist and artworks and as stated is an annual survey exhibition of emerging and early career artist. From my own Google search Humber Street Gallery kind of nailed this: it is  prestigious opportunity and lucky us [again] 

Throughout the year I also did some cool freelance jobs closely Hull culture related: 

Absolutely Cultured LUMINARIUM 

Absolutely Cultured FAST FOOD MEGAVERSE by The Herd Theatre . This was commissioned cultural outing, it was family-friendly, all age groups welcome type of happy event.

Good Things Market in April was MEGA 

HULL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2022 where I literally tipped up on the last day [I was very busy] 

Humber Street Gallery hosted one of the best things of 2022. Silent Uproar is an award-winning theatre company based in Hull and I had an opportunity to photograph one of their shows.  

Big thing this year was getting involved with Risky Cities Project for Hull University. I was asked to cover many events and I loved it.  

“The city of Hull and Humber estuary region has an 800-year history of living with water risks, including recorded floods from the 1250s onwards and several major floods since 2000. Despite this, research has found that residents have a low engagement with flood risks and adaptation measures, such as flood alert systems. 

In response, the local councils, alongside the Environment Agency, Yorkshire Water and the University of Hull, have developed the Living with Water Partnership with the principle aim of increasing awareness and engagement in the region. 

The Risky Cities project will contribute to this partnership by drawing on Hull’s long history of living with water – as recorded in its artistic and cultural heritage – to raise climate awareness and build flood resilience today and for the future” 

Source: Risky Cities 

The project focused on engaging with local communities across the city and that was the “juice” of the project. The conversation around the subject was vital and I learned so much throughout the workshops, talks and exhibitions.   

New Year’s culture resolution: to be more out in the culture, monthly visits. More frequent none-work related culture wonders.
This is the seventh-year culture blogging anniversary and I want to celebrate double that, so let’s get cultured.

YOURS TRULY 

ANETE SOODA PHOTO

 

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 36

by anetesooda1 Comment on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 36

HELLO.

 

This week is more about what I didn’t do  – my engagement with Hull 17 has been very poor. My honest feeling about it late Sunday was gutting, but sometimes other things come first, sacrifices had to be made.

From past two months I have had some interesting photography experiences – Freedom Festival, few important portraits, first wedding, smoke bomb awesomeness, beautiful mother to be photographed, Home Glory series updated, new website work progress and thoughts about the future…so all this has to be shared with everyone and requires work. SORRY CULTURE

Plus – important to remember that Freedom Festival took its toll  there was extra 2 1/2 days to recover and edit…..

anyway….
things I really wanted to do but didn’t this week:

 

Turner Prize Nominees and Winners at the Ferens

Incredibly gutted, but definitely not missing the The Turner Prize 2017 which is coming soon – 26th September.

Alien Sex Capsule at Artlink Hull

Planned, but didn’t happen due to work commitments. Will visit this week [more than welcome to join me] it is on until 29th September.

Albemarle Saturdays – WORKSHOP 15: MELIA DUO – FOUND OBJECTS PERCUSSION/ COMPOSITION

This was found in the pile of culture flyers/books I have and as I was desperate to do some culture I booked some tickets. It was on until I went to a family day at Smith&Nephew [work thing] and cos of free food and entertainment +dozen of Hull 17 volunteers I thought that this is good enough.

Smith&Nephew is major sponsor for Hull 17 so that make it count even more.

Also I was very realistic – I had no objects that make noise, I have zero talent for music and I didn’t feel comfortable going, so decision was made.

Here are few culture snaps from the family event – site is safety aware, so the less I publish the better I feel.

_Z1A7480WEEK36 b_Z1A7394WEEK36 b_Z1A7399WEEK36 b_Z1A7405WEEK36 b_Z1A7407WEEK36 b_Z1A7436WEEK36 b_Z1A7443WEEK36 b_Z1A7445WEEK36 b_Z1A7466WEEK36 b_Z1A7476WEEK36 b

THIS WEEK I AM PLANNING TO BE A GOOD CULTURE GIRL, DELIVER SOME INTERESTING CULTURE AND BLOG Freedom Festival

_Z1A7386WEEK36 b

 

 

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 34

by anetesooda2 Comments on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 34

I am just going to pretend that it is Monday, although clearly I have broken the routine FIRST TIME IN 34 WEEKS by doing this on Tuesday.
My excuse – Bank Holiday and unexpected health issues.

 

The week was something between a recovery and back to work mode… so I packed in dose of culture in one day, predicting that no other days will be suitable.

I had a plan:
TIGER RAGS – THE FABRIC OF HULL CITY AFC

BLEACHED BY TANIA KOVATS

THE DINOSAUR EXPERIENCE HULL @DINOSTAR

THE HOUSE OF KINGS AND QUEENS

_Z1A9956WEEK34 b

When heading to the TIGER RAGS – THE FABRIC OF HULL CITY AFC display, I was pretty clueless that it will be about the famous Hull City. Which easily proves that I am not in the game at all.

For me the display perhaps didn’t mean the same as it would to true fans and believers, but I felt a bit of a legacy when entering a room. There was a family that looked at the whole history of the Hull City kits and memorabilia, watched the video about the players and I recognised the importance of the little exhibition in the most bizarre place.

_Z1A9949WEEK34 b_Z1A9945WEEK34 b_Z1A9952WEEK34 b

 

BLEACHED BY TANIA KOVATS as part of the day came on my way to Humber Street. The building, its location and potential to amaze me was present when approaching.

_Z1A9972WEEK34 b

Without making things up – genuinely one of my favourite culture visits in the recent weeks. There is no photo proof, but I had two guys helping me to soak the culture, we talked and chit-chatted, criticized and praised the work of Tania Kovats. Complete strangers, but the culture brought us together for those 15 important minutes. And the story behind their visit – old friends, both retired, now living in different areas, come together to see the culture and have a lunch/brunch/coffee/pint every now and then. How cool is that? This is why this year has changed things around, this is why everyone can find something beneficial about Hull 2017.

_Z1A9975WEEK34 b_Z1A9980WEEK34 b_Z1A9984WEEK34 b

Sculptures exploring the beauty of coral and its fragile position in the world’s ecosystem, was something that we evaluated as potentially upsetting – if beneath the white coat was real coral, we could not accept the sacrifices made to create the art.
Off course it turned out that The Deep was able to save a large quantity of modal (artificial) coral after refurbishment for Tania to work with, so the artist used representation to raise awareness of what could potentially happen with the corals if the humans don’t start to think environmentally friendly.

It remains stunning sculpture with exceptional amount of fine detail that I had the pleasure to view.

_Z1A9991WEEK34 b

The sculptures Ocean Bowls are just as stunning as the corals. And mystery at first glance. I thought that each metal piece has been saved from a different ocean and we see the different effects that it had created. But NO, under each piece was a great idea hidden for us to find…

Each piece has been cut out as Planet Earth, metal part being ocean and cut outs being land. So if pieced together it will create a planet that we know so far.

_Z1A9999WEEK34 b_Z1A0002WEEK34 b

As before – it was so interesting to puzzle this mystery with strangers that become your friends for the moment and find Great Britain, Philippines, Baltics or Mexico.

There was a third art display – a bit of paint on paper that we called to be a fish planet – because so many things are to do with water, sea, river.

_Z1A9995WEEK34 b
After the amazing experience I walked into almost electric skyline overlooking Hull Town and was in a good mood – being busy even with photo-jobs can sometimes be difficult, because there is no real freedom. However the culture photo challenge gives me the freedom, so something to celebrate.

And then it was spoiled – by Dinostar – The Dinosaur Experience Hull.
I am really sorry, but I was very shocked when I noticed the price for entry -not a symbolic £1 but £3 for an adult. And to make it worse, finishing my tour I felt like that was my worst £3 spent for an entry to culture.
_Z1A0009WEEK34 b

It turned to be funny – this place has always been on my sight, interested of what is hidden inside the building. Every time I walked past there, it was closed, so to finally get in should’ve made my day.
The whole thing is ridiculously outdated and 90’s entertainment. Even for children in our generation this must feel like a joke.
But then – I have seen some spectacular exhibitions and art spaces, so the stacks are high.

_Z1A0022WEEK34 b_Z1A0026WEEK34 b_Z1A0028WEEK34 b_Z1A0032WEEK34 b_Z1A0030WEEK34 b_Z1A0039WEEK34 b_Z1A0049WEEK34 b_Z1A0053WEEK34 b

I came out with my hands stamped with blurred dinosaurs and a conclusion – Dinostar need to apply for a funding and re-do the place, because the idea behind it is great and keeps the world of the mystery and wonderful alive for the kids.

Whilst heading to THE HOUSE OF KINGS AND QUEENS I bumped into something really cool – Building Block Hack!

The workshop run by artist and FORMCard founder Peter Marigold is part of the States Of Play Workshops – the incredible exhibition that I visited few weeks ago [see the photos here: MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 29]

In short – kids and grownups playing with Lego’s and bits of melted plastic creating monsters, hero’s, unicorns and random bits.

_Z1A0080WEEK34 b_Z1A0059WEEK34 b_Z1A0062WEEK34 b_Z1A0063WEEK34 b_Z1A0065WEEK34 b_Z1A0074WEEK34 b_Z1A0075WEEK34 b

 

The last one of the day was THE HOUSE OF KINGS AND QUEENS.

_Z1A0090WEEK34 b

First impression – stunning display and beautiful photographs covering a content that surprisingly remains taboo amongst society [noticed that when hanging about near the entrance – parents by accident brought kids thinking that it is the States Of Play exhibition and rushed out as soon as realised that the story behind the heartfelt photographs is transgender].

But I loved it. I truly did. First of all  the photographer Lee Price has done an amazing job with storytelling through photographs, curating the notes underneath the photographs. Secondly – the context is easy to relate to. You don’t have to be transgender or gay to not feel free in today’s world. There are so many other reasons why people feel like that. I found it touching and really encourages me to be more open mined.

_Z1A0091WEEK34 b

Also seeing this exhibition I really need to find out more about Sierra Leone and its relationship with Hull. It has popped up before in my culture wonders, or event at Uni. Now it is time to find out more, so a little homework for coming weeks.

_Z1A0098WEEK34 b_Z1A0090WEEK34 b_Z1A0088WEEK34 b_Z1A0086WEEK34 b

This exhibition is 10/10. Thank you for the viewing and observing experience.

 

 

THIS WEEK IS THE FREEDOM FESTIVAL 10th ANNIVERSARY AND I AM SO EXCITED TO WORK WITH FREEDOM FESTIVAL THIS YEAR.

I might have a bit of none Freedom Festival culture for you – THE HESSLE ROADERS

but we’ll see.

HAPPY CULTURE PEOPLE

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 32

by anetesoodaLeave a Comment on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 32

HELLO GOODBYE HELLO

The plan for this week was to take it steady – recovering from the Humber Street Sesh 2017, editing, working on the new website n’ stuff.

I wanted to visit something very cultural, something that will educate me as well, so the Larkin: New Eyes Each Year @Brynmore Jones Gallery was the perfect fit.

The biographic exhibition at the University of Hull, where Larkin spent three decades as Librarian, lifts the lid on the life of one of Hull’s most influential creatives or as I might say – gives a cool and current perspective to Philip Larkin’s life and work.

The exhibition is cleverly set out – to the point that I got lost in it in the best way, amazing work from the curator Anna Farthing. The exhibition is also very intimate and personal.

_Z1A7109WEEK32 b

This very image of Larkin’s socks raised questions if he had a women in his life and talking to the volunteers it seemed like he few.
Person who is in love with books in general will have an interesting journey through selection of books, some caught my eye and made me consider to find time for reading ASAP.

_Z1A7085WEEK32 b_Z1A7091WEEK32 b

The exhibition is interactive following Larkin’s life through the little pink posted notes placed around the book shelves with quotes from him.

_Z1A7084WEEK32 b_Z1A7083WEEK32 b

My highlight off course was the lawnmower on the wall with. And the poem. At this point I was excited meeting Larkin – he must have been a cool guy – mows his own lawn.

Story about the lawnmower – the one on the wall belonged to Larkin. Poetry is a process of trimming and cutting back so they have rigged it on top of his working notes for his poem Toads which is about the tension between having to work for a living and writing poetry. Larkin wrote about cutting grass, and was very upset about killing a hedgehog [poem The Mower]

_Z1A7101WEEK32 b
And I guess this was a second point where I felt connected with Mr. Larkin. I still have to work as no-photographer part time, to make sure I don’t end up living under the bridge. For those who manage to do what they love for living  – you are a winner in life. And I will be a winner full time one day.

_Z1A7072WEEK32 b_Z1A7077WEEK32 b_Z1A7100WEEK32 b_Z1A7104WEEK32 b_Z1A7117WEEK32 b_Z1A7119WEEK32 b_Z1A7121WEEK32 b_Z1A7122WEEK32 b_Z1A7126WEEK32 b_Z1A7131WEEK32 b_Z1A7129WEEK32 b

On Friday and Saturday I was working in North Point Shopping Centre for Freedom Festival and both days I had The Gold Nose of Green Ginger 5 m away.

On Friday I admired the little gallery space and caught a little performance, but rushed back to work – so no actual nose. The nose and story behind it came on Saturday when I curiosity took over.

Long considered an urban myth, The Green Ginger Fellowship made this momentous discovery while delving into the large cache of Land of Green Ginger crates currently under investigation.

The last concrete sighting was documented 50 years ago, when building work to lay the foundations of the first house on Bransholme unearthed a small casket with the Gold Nose lying within.

Source: Hull City Of Culture 2017 website

No it has been brought back to Bransholme.
+ you can write a wish to the nose [there is a myth that it brings good luck and makes wishes come true] and put it in secret letterbox.

_Z1A7317WEEK32 b_Z1A7318WEEK32 b_Z1A7320WEEK32 b

There is no Gold Nose of Green Ginger photo – you must go and see it for yourself.

Saturday was a mixture of different culture mixing in the North Point Shopping Centre bowl, so I met a very fake Elsa from Frozen, Brighhouse bears and ladies in headscarves.

_Z1A7461WEEK32 b_Z1A7436WEEK32 b

THE CULTURE CHOICES WILL BE SPONTANEOUS THIS WEEK AS I HAVE WORK THAT REQUIRES A LOT OF PRE STRESSING AND PREP.

GET CULTURED MOVEMENT STILL IS A COOL THING TO DO, GET INVOLVED

Hull City Of Culture 2017, Uncategorized

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 31 – HUMBER STREET SESH 2017

by anetesooda1 Comment on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 31 – HUMBER STREET SESH 2017

I have just minutes into the Sunday/Monday gap that usually is my own deadline for the previous weeks culture indulgence, so I will keep it sweet and short.

As I was landing from Latvia to the Queens property less than a week ago, I was thinking what a strange land it is. So many beautiful things here, so many doors opened for me, but still  – are we in the perfect relationship?

Few days of sulking and thinking and I was thrown into the madness – Humber Street Sesh 2017

I was not sure if the holiday hangover was over, but I was left with no choice – four years in a row I missed the Sesh for various reasons and last year I swore that 2017 will be THE YEAR.

+ someone offered a “brief”, so the festival visit was on the full work mode.

The gallery is less than a half of “reasonable” photos taken in the 12 hrs because on time pressure for post process – some of the photos are random, some acts/bands photographed not even sure where from/named after…a mess.

Plus half way I lost my precious map, work list and wish list, so that made me even more of a mess.
I was a mess photographer, but I think there is a great message in my photos – Hull likes a good party and Hull can also host a great party.

Highlights

Silent Disco 

Nineties Boy Bunker Pop JackJames

people

and all those who said hello to me and I said hello to.

Enjoy Humber Street Sesh 2017 mess that comes from my photographers heart.

 

 

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 30

by anetesooda3 Comments on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 30

Now just days away from returning to Hull after two weeks of living in a different world. As I was away from the British, from the culture last week, on the 30th week I can reflect on the challenge, culture in Hull and my relationship with Great British.

Every year I come home, Latvia for lengthy holiday with my family, friends, life and memories. Seven years away from Latvia has been beautifully changing, but sad at the same time.

Last year on return I started my HOME GLORY photo series, celebrating my origins, land of everything beautiful and people.

My life, especially social, is often lived through the lens, so coming home with a similar mindset is rather interesting. I mix pleasure with work, being completely off the routines back in the UK.

Half way on holiday I managed to drop my phone in the loo, so I lost that quick access to social media and quite honestly – interest in having one. So odd glimpse of culture in Hull made me realise that I am missing out on bloody loads, but it was not a regret. [this next line is the most important in this post]

Hull is not silent, it is bursting with potential perfect photographs celebrating culture,people, places and important stories. Therefore I feel like my Hull 2017 challenge is my welcome call back home, to Hull. And yes, I have two homes, so I am incredibly lucky, each home offering me something different to “rub on” my self-esteem and ego.

Hull is AMAZING and this year I my relationship with the city has improved – we are totally in love.

On my return work waits, there is a lot of work with culture and with various clients, so there will be no rest until end September.

Just before I left, on the notes if reflections I visited the reflective patios in Old town opposite Hull Trinity Church. The mirrored bits of pavement is another photo-must-take, usually with planning and patience. For me – visual document. For now…

_Z1A2570WEEK30 other b

P. S. Get cultured and love Hull.

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 29

by anetesoodaLeave a Comment on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 29

HELLO FROM LATVIA.

I AM FAR AWAY FROM THE WORK AND MY BRITISH HOME, HENCE WHY I AM FAR AWAY FROM THE CULTURE.

BUT BECAUSE I TAKE MY PHOTO CHALLENGE VERY SERIOUSLY I AM GIVING YOU SOME CULTURE [managed to squeeze it in just before I left]

COS I AM ON HOLIDAY, I AM GOING TO KEEP THIS SHORT AND SWEET.

 

I VISITED HUMBER STREET GALLERY AND STATES OF PLAY. I WAS GOING THERE PURPOSELY, BUT WAS NOT EXPECTING HOW EXCITED I WILL BE SEEING MY FAVOURITE EXHIBITION SO FAR.

AMAZING EXTRAVAGANZA, SO CLEVER AND INTERESTING.

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND SEEING THIS TO EVERYONE OUT THERE READING MY BLOG. TELL YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY..EVERYONE.

STATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERYSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERYSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY LIGHT INSTALLATIONSSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY LIGHT INSTALLATIONSSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY LIGHT INSTALLATIONS INTERACTIVE_Z1A2612WEEK29 bSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY CLEVER STAIRCASE_Z1A2615WEEK29 bSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY TINY TOYSSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY TINY TOYS CLOSE UP_Z1A2620WEEK29 bSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY TINY TOYS CLOSE UP PURPLE_Z1A2623WEEK29 b_Z1A2626WEEK29 bSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY LETS BREW UP SOME CULTURE_Z1A2635WEEK29 bSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY PANORAMA_Z1A2643WEEK29 bSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY SILVER PINAPPLE_Z1A2649WEEK29 b_Z1A2653WEEK29 b_Z1A2660WEEK29 b_Z1A2672WEEK29 b_Z1A2674WEEK29 b_Z1A2678WEEK29 b_Z1A2680WEEK29 b_Z1A2681WEEK29 b_Z1A2684WEEK29 bSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY LIGHT INSTALLATIONS SHAPESSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY ROBOT CONTROL ROOMSTATES OF PLAY @HUMBER STREET GALLERY AWESOME ROBOT

 

HIGHLIGHTS; ROBOT AND THE LAMP THAT KNITS ITSELF, OH AND THE BLOWY LIGHT INSTALLATIONS

 

HAPPY CULTURE PEOPLE

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 28

by anetesoodaLeave a Comment on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 28

SUNDAY MORNING OF THE CULTURE WEEK 28 AND HIGH PRODUCTIVITY SO FAR. THIS WEEK HAS BEEN MANIC, BUT I HAVE BEEN ON THE TOP OF THE GAME.

AS I AM LEAVING UK FOR TWO WEEKS, TO DO LIST HAS BEEN LONG, INCLUDING GETTING SOME CULTURE.

THIS WEEK I HAVE TWO HIGHLIGHTS:

Ground Gallery since the first visit few weeks ago when I visited PEACE PARTY is on my culture map. I subscribed to their mailing list and that is how I found out about the LIFE PICTURES by artist KAUSAR from Afghanistan.
It was important to visit the exhibition this week, as it will be closed by the time I come back. Tight schedule forced me to take my chances that it will be open. It was closed when I arrived and I desperately started taking photos through the window [as you do].
GROUND GALLERY Opening Times

Before leaving I thought that the good old knocking might change the situation around and IT DID. I was invited for a quick view and it mainly happened cos the gallery owner recognised my face.
LIFE IN PICTURES BY KAUSAR @GROUND GALLERYGROUND GALLERY HULLLIFE IN PICTURES BY KAUSAR @GROUND GALLERY DRAWINGSLIFE IN PICTURES BY KAUSAR @GROUND GALLERY DRAWINGS 2

The drawings represent artist life back in Afghanistan and his new home in Hull. The artwork contains a lot of monsters and creatures, so I recon that the artist had struggles and the journey was not an easy one. Like many others, he might have struggled to integrate and find his sense of belonging.
Overall the gallery is as mentioned few weeks ago full of character and that enhances the work on the walls. Beautiful.
_Z1A2461WEEK28 b

 

The same day I went down to Princess Avenue to visit Artlink Hull.

I was not sure if the previous exhibition that I wanted to see was still on, but I also thought that there must be something on anyways.

I dare to say – one of the best photographic exhibitions I’ve seen since Martin Parr @Hepworth Wakefield couple of years ago.

Visible Girls: Revisited by Anita Corbin

VISIBLE GIRLS: REVISITED by ANITA CORBIN panorama

The exhibition brings together original images of women from different subcultures of the early 1980’s and newly commissioned portraits of the same women now. In 1981 Corbin made 28 double portraits of young women. They were from different cultural groups: skins, mods, punks, rockabillies, new romantics, rastas and young lesbians. She was fascinated by the ways in which cultural allegiance and identity were boldly and explicitly expressed through fashion, music and environment by women emerging from adolescence.

Source: Hull City Of Culture Website

_Z1A2492WEEK28 b

The era when photographs were taken matches with the one Martin Parr and his photographic journeys took place – Margaret Thatcher and the times when the social confusion was a present. Or everyone turned into a rebel in some way. Interesting time for controversial photographs dealing with the life.

So I recon that is the reason why I was so positively charged with this exhibition. In so many ways it is one of the most beautiful ways how to preserve life and style that is way gone, but remains important for new generations to know about. It makes sense to me.
VISIBLE GIRLS: REVISITED by ANITA CORBIN wide angleVISIBLE GIRLS: REVISITED by ANITA CORBINVISIBLE GIRLS: REVISITED by ANITA CORBIN phone and the photobookVISIBLE GIRLS: REVISITED by ANITA CORBINVISIBLE GIRLS: REVISITED by ANITA CORBIN close up with one of the photographs

Photographs reveal timeless beauty of the way world used to be. There is a sense of freedom. The way Anita Corbin worked is also something that rarely happens these days insta-shots with Polaroid focusing on the first time success.

Another fascinating aspect is that Corbin tracked down women photographed to take the photograph once more, many years later – she actually reunited some friends that haven’t seen each other in twenty years.

VISIBLE GIRLS: REVISITED by ANITA CORBIN friends reunited photograph

My personal friendship experience relates to this as my best friends live in Latvia and I see them once a year.

There is also an amazing merchandise available, including a book that I really need to get before the exhibition finishes.

Artlink Hull VGR SHOP

SO YEAHHHH, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS TO EVERYONE.
BIG SHOUT OUT TO Artlink Hull STAFF FOR BEING SO FANTASTIC AND OFF COURSE BIG HONOURS TO HOST AN EXHIBITION OF THIS KIND.

 

MY WORK HERE IS DONE FOR THIS WEEK AND I AM VERY EXCITED TO GO HOME [TUESDAY]. TOMORROW I MIGHT DO SOME CULTURE FOR THE WEEK 29 AND 30, SO KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED FOR NEXT TWO WEEKS.

I CANNOT BELIEVE I WILL BE AWAY FROM THE CULTURE AND EVEN MORE I CAN’T BELIEVE THAT I CARE SO MUCH. hah.

HAVE A FANTASTIC WEEK MONKEYS!!!!

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 26

by anetesoodaLeave a Comment on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 26

HELLO AND WELCOME ON THE WEEK 26th OF HULL CITY OF CULTURE 2017.

 

Traditionally as I do on Mondays, I am sat writing and reflecting on last week. And it was a big one. Not only the work was interesting, culture was as wonderful as ever.

First – THE TRAIN TRACK AND THE BASKET @HULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE

Funny story actually – this has been on my wishlist for a while, but as 12 o’clock station visit is not something I do I kept leaving it. And last week was the last week for the installation to be on.

I thought that the installation involves lady dressed in 1950’s clothing with a travelling basket getting in and out of trains – a performance. Upon arrival at the station I went to the Hull City Of Culture 2017 Welcome Pod to get the exact info.
When I was told that it is all around me  I felt really silly. That’s another lesson in my basket – read the info about events, performances, installations.

So there I was, surrounded by artwork presenting events between 1848 and 1914, when more than 2 million people arrived to Hull by ship from mainland Europe, then left by train for the ports of Liverpool and Southampton. They were on their way to a new life in the USA, Canada and South Africa. The artist Claire Barber used windows shaped like an upturned baskets and after an extensive research created the large scale artworks.
HULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE CLAIRE BARBER THE BASKET AND THE TRAIN TRACK ART INSTALLATION

The site for the artwork suggests both beginnings and endings. Station can be a place for a long goodbye and a warm welcome. I have been there, we all have at some point.
HULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE CLAIRE BARBER THE BASKET AND THE TRAIN TRACK ART INSTALLATION CLOSE UPHULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE CCTV

HULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE CLAIRE BARBER THE BASKET AND THE TRAIN TRACK ART INSTALLATION CLOSE UP NR 2

Apart from the disappointment [which is really my own fault], I thought it brightens up the place. I am not sure if the general public have spotted it, because the artwork blends in their busy daily lives….

The day was incredibly rainy, so the station was an escape for some and as a rare visitor I was quite happy to be part of the scene.

HULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE FLAMINGOHULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE UMBRELLAHULL PARAGON INTERCHANGE DOORS

On Thursday I was finally in town in the right time on the right date for the (In)visible Dancing.

I was waiting for it for a week and on the day I was ready for it a half an hour early.

Whilst waiting I got chatting with a lovely Hull City Of Culture 2017 volunteer. He was a right character in the most beautiful way.

HULL CITY OF CULTURE VOLUNTEER SMILEY AS EVER

And he as well as made my day, ruined it for me. He told me about the PAPER CITY opening earlier in the morning which sounded like a visual/photographic wonderland to my ears. I knew that it opens on that day, but was not aware of the extravaganza of the opening – flying paper “things”. OHHHHH MIGHTY DUCK. Lesson nr. 2 that week – KEEP YOUR EYES AND EARS OPEN AT ALL TIMES.

He kindly gave me a copy of a tiny book telling the story and I was feeling the pain. But definitely on my list for the 27th week of #getcultured.

PAPER CITY BOOKLET

 

BACK TO THE (IN)VISIBLE DANCING.

I went to one of the last dance performances building up to the Finale on the 1st of July and I was impatiently excited whilst waiting for the familiar figures to appear on the Jameson Street.

The award winning dance theatre company Protein was joined by local musicians and dancers. The info flyer states that the performance will sweep you away from your daily cares and shopping with an entertaining and unusual street show.

And it was just that and a bit more.

_Z1A0283WEEK26 b_Z1A0241WEEK26 b_Z1A0255WEEK26 b_Z1A0189WEEK26 b_Z1A0261WEEK26 b_Z1A0201WEEK26 b_Z1A0274WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE YAAS(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE WARM UP_Z1A0218WEEK26 b

Whilst snapping the fast paced and ever changing scenes, one of the directors of the performance approached me and asked if we can have a chat after the show. It was rather lovely to know that they appreciate local photographers taking time and willing to share the photos with them. That’s the plan.

(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE HALIFAX BANK_Z1A0292WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE JAMESON STREET_Z1A0328WEEK26 b_Z1A0386WEEK26 b_Z1A0358WEEK26 b_Z1A0366WEEK26 b_Z1A0378WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE FLASHMOB_Z1A0411WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE AIR KISS_Z1A0399WEEK26 b_Z1A0420WEEK26 b_Z1A0423WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE DANCE DANCE DANCE_Z1A0441WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE SURPRISE_Z1A0464WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE CASH MACHINE(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE PERFORMER(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE BANANAS_Z1A0512WEEK26 b_Z1A0514WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE SELFIE_Z1A0520WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE DRUMS_Z1A0621WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE @HULL UK CITY OF CULTURE_Z1A0557WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE HULL_Z1A0611WEEK26 b

There was so many highlights – a guy just continuing his veg shopping surrounded by dancers and members of public filming the dancers …

(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE HULL RANDOM SHOO

An elderly lady doing the same, not even close to being aware of what is going on around her …

_Z1A0488WEEK26 b

And the “sister” of the street dancers joined in the dance. Serious commitment and really made everyone think she is part of the crew. well done!!!
_Z1A0502WEEK26 b(IN)VISIBLE DANCING PROTEIN DANCE HULL

AMAZING. AMAZING. REALLY BRIGHTENED UP MY DAY!! HORRAAY!
I bet the Finale was even more spectacular!!

On Saturday I was trying to stay work free, but I heard rumours about something happening @Zebedee’s Yard. So I headed there with a hope that it is something worth the walk.

Ray Lee; Ring Out Zebedee's Yard Giant Bells

RAY LEE: RING OUT as part of PRS FOUNDATION’S NEW MUSIC BIENNIAL.

The sound installation from sound artist and composer Ray Lee, renowned for creating music for public places with generated bell sounds.

Going back to the culture lesson nr. 2 – did not know the timings, so turned up when it was just finished. ahhggrr.
But the bells themselves, surrounded by metal structures looked spectacular. The sun was out so there was two good reasons for this to be on my blog.

Ray Lee; Ring Out Zebedee's Yard

Also I had a little sneak at the Memorial piece at the end of the Zebedee’s Yard and took some photos as a reminder.

Zebedee's Yard Memorial Kingston Upon Hull

There is so much going on, so difficult to keep up and find time to be everywhere…
This weeks list:

 

My annual Latvia visit is fast approaching and I am going to miss out on two weeks of culture – not sure how I will live with that…..

 

HAVE A GREAT WEEK, MONKEYS.

 

Hull City Of Culture 2017

MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 23

by anetesoodaLeave a Comment on MY CITY OF CULTURE – MY HULL – WEEK 23

Week 23 of the challenge has flown by – again. Time just flies and last week especially I was living in a bubble – week blended in as one long day with a lot of amazing things, cool photo shoots [one very cool solid] and great people.

Last week obviously went down to Hull School of Art&Design – AS THEY CALL IT THE BRODRICK GALLERY NOW – for the degree show.

Hull School of Art&Design Degree Show 2017 Hull City of Culture
Enter a caption

First of all massive CONGRATS to Fine Art students for having the best social/promo/marketing presence I’ve seen in years. They are only bunch of students [are they?], but they have done such a brilliant job. Their exhibition BEHIND THE WHITE WALLS was the one I wanted to see the most, so their marketing has worked.

_Z1A8711WEEK23 b

Having been the student and gone through the degree, I know exactly how difficult and time consuming it is to do everything 100% – creating the final work, writing, researching and preparing the space, and have the perfect social platform to spread the word. Well done!
And off course – some really great stuff – some abstract, some hearty, some personal, some random and some follows issues in the current world.
_Z1A8716WEEK23 b_Z1A8715WEEK23 b_Z1A8709WEEK23 b_Z1A8708WEEK23 b_Z1A8706WEEK23 b_Z1A8703WEEK23 b_Z1A8730WEEK23 b_Z1A8728WEEK23 b_Z1A8702WEEK23 b_Z1A8748WEEK23 b_Z1A8747WEEK23 b_Z1A8746WEEK23 b_Z1A8740WEEK23 b_Z1A8739WEEK23 b_Z1A8738WEEK23 b_Z1A8737WEEK23 b_Z1A8736WEEK23 b_Z1A8726WEEK23 b_Z1A8717-PanoWEEK23 b

I must say that this year I have enjoyed Fine Art the most. Illustration is usually the one I have my eyes peeled, but this year the diversity grabbed my attention in Fine Art studios. Lovely to chat with the artists-students behind the work, plus some other deep conversations at Hull School of Art&Design.
The visit took me back one year ago, and I feel so thankful and lucky. For some, like me, the degree opens another world and offers a great platform to be a great artist, photographer or arhitect, illustrator or web designer. And there are few that really make it to the real world.

Also came to a conclusion that I don’t miss being a student. I milked the cow to the last drop with no regrets. It is an absolute pleasure to pop in now and then and see the people that helped me to shape my photography.

Erm, the photography exhibition was alright [mine/ours was miles better hahah]. There was a few problems – previously mentioned Fine Art BEHIND THE WHITE WALLS and photography exhibition – have no idea what the exhibition was called…that’s quite bad. Two students particularly had strong commitment to the Final Major project and photography in general.

_Z1A8735WEEK23 b

The photos below particularly interesting as the set was built from scratch on the Hull School of Art&Design grounds and off course – the amazing hand crafted frames.
_Z1A8732WEEK23 b_Z1A8733WEEK23 b

 

The week was literally flying by and on Saturday I had a moment of truth – I have only been to the Degree Show. THAT IS NOT ENOUGH OF CULTURE.

I went through the Hull City Of Culture 2017 website for some inspiration for the day, but was not feeling very social – sometimes I really fancy some quite photo journeys.
Just opposite the St Andrews Quay in West Hull there is the metal sculptures. I pass them at least once a week, wanting to stop, but never do….and I figured that it could be my finishing touch to the WEEK 23 of the challenge.

_Z1A8809WEEK23 b

“Peter’s Lost Trawlermen’s Memorial at St Andrew’s Quay is a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives at sea” – description on Hull City Of Culture 2017 website.

I was taking photographs of a group of people carved in metal kind of knowing about the possible connection with the fishing heritage in Hull and celebrations around it.
But little that I knew that this is part of a big celebration and part of the Hull 17 programme. Fishing Heritage Talks: An Evening with Alec and Peter is only one part of the 17-day festival of celebration in honour of Hull’s fishing heritage.

At least I can say that I appreciated the incredible sculpture to the fullest and explored in detail. As the sculptures are life size – Melanie could not help to be part of the art – and I can’t really blame her. We had fun and the people passing by wondered what the heck is going on there.

_Z1A8826WEEK23 b_Z1A8818-PanoWEEK23 b_Z1A8817WEEK23 b

That unplanned photo shoot might be a potential selling point, so people who did pass  might come for a closer look and spread the word.

_Z1A8829WEEK23 b_Z1A8828WEEK23 b_Z1A8831WEEK23 b

 

There has been some great shots with the sculpture on Instagram photo groups with star trails, amazing sunsets/sunrises in the background, but I think I’ve done a good job with the summer look.

_Z1A8811WEEK23 b

This week I am planning on few things:
Now Then 

HULL STREET FOOD NIGHT ON THURSDAY

ARTLINK HULL and the DOG BASKET BABOON by Oliver Macdonald

BUT BECAUSE I AM TRAINING/PREPARING FOR THE HULL 10K I will see how my plan works out.
There is also a must do on my list which is to visit key Hull areas and spend some time absorbing the landmarks, people and general “happyhullbeing”