And now a word from our sponsors..... Page 45!

Hello art monkeys!

You will no doubt have noticed that for the past couple of shows our prize table has been positively groaning under the weight of the very generous donations from our newest sponsor, Page45. An institution in Nottingham's city centre, they are a Mecca for lovers of not only mainstream graphic novels, comics and manga but also independent and self published works and are a font of knowledge on all things related to comic books and comic book art.

Having recently won an award as Nottingham's best independent retailor (a truly well deserved accolade) they have also been given a monthly column in the Nottingham Post's Weekend supplement, in which to wax lyrical about whatever comic goodness they see fit. I hope you'll find a copy and give it a thorough going over!

We asked one of Page45's creators, Stephen L Holland, some probing, arty related questions......


1. What is the best thing about running a comic book shop?

You'd think it would be the comics, wouldn't you? Opening up boxes and pulling out presents as though every week were Christmas? Fishing out the latest instalments of personal favourites, exhuming a long-lost treasure now reprinted as a graphic novel or - most 'mazing of all - stumbling upon something completely new that blows our collective minds! That, let me tell you, is reward enough. Our eyes shine like marbles!

But it's not the best thing. The very bestest thing is sharing that joy with the customers which we call friends: celebrating diversity and introducing the most brilliant books to the readers who'll love them.

We've built a community out of mutual enthusiasm fostered down the pub after signings. It gives me so much glee to interact on the shop floor by providing extemporised show-and-tell recommendations. It's enormous fun, just ask! Much better than moping around and muttering, "You might find something over there".

Now Twitter has enhanced that whole community aspect exponentially. I cannot believe we have so many sympathisers already (we don't have followers, we have sympathisers: hierarchy is an anathema to me), but I should in all fairness confess that I'm a merchant of mischief and a complete liability to boot. Sorry.

Eddie Campbell with his readers after a signing session at Page45

 

2. Who is your favourite artist working in comic books/narrative storytelling?

Oh, I can't do that. But I can tell you that Terry Moore draws some of the most beautiful, sensuous women in the world - and I do mean women, not scrawny little models. I think your particular artists would relish those forms. RACHEL RISING currently has me on the edge of my seat and STRANGERS IN PARADISE was for a long time here so many women's first introduction to comics.

I can tell you that my favourite comic so far this year is ST. COLIN AND THE DRAGON by Philippa Rice who will be filling our window with wonder and wonkiness come this very September in time for October's GameCity! The craft there is crazy: she is right up there with Lizz Lunney for utter absurdity and I love them both to bits.

But my favourite creator of all time has to be Derby's own Nabiel Kanan whom I head-hunted to illustrate the Page 45 website. He did so with an unequalled empathy. He recreated from memory so much that is us, even down to the sticky-taped messages we leave ourselves and each other behind the counter! Alas, so much of Nabiel's work is now out of print, but don't give up hope. Tomorrow I will chase up more DROWNERS.



Nabiel Kanan - draft of Page45 website

 

3. Who do you think is the comic book world's best kept secret at the moment?

Luke Pearson. He's already huge on the continent and well respected in England, but only where he is sold. SOME PEOPLE is the best two sterling pounds you will ever spend in your life, while EVERYTHING WE MISS will make you think long and hard about your own daily life. And about your past: about everything that you miss... and every thing you missed.

4. What/who hangs on your walls at home?

Am I allowed to brag? I'm surely going to. Original pages of comicbook art given to me with ridiculous generosity by Bryan Talbot, Eddie Campbell, Marc Laming, Jeffrey Brown, Bryan Lee O'Malley, and a wittily constructed portrait by DRAGONSLIPPERS' Rosalind Penfold. I have signed prints by Hope Larson, Bernie Wrightson's utterly Byronic FRANKENSTEIN, and an original page of CEREBUS by Dave Sim.

I've also a much treasured, signed and limited edition print which was sent to me by Molly Crabapple (your patron, I believe) in compensation for not living in London. Basically, Molly was in the UK, loved our review of A WEEK IN HELL, and so wanted to sign here. Alas, she hadn't realised how far from London we were, and so couldn't make it. I got very excited, then wept.

Outside the sphere of comics it's 23 Envelope's Vaughan Oliver, the great Huw Feather, Arthur Rackham, lots of Dave McKean and a massive recreation of my favourite-ever work of art, one of Caravaggio's 'David With The Head Of Goliath's.

 

Best of all, though, are two exceptional pieces by our very own Mark Simpson, given to me on my birthdays. Both feature me as the drunken demi-god Pan, cavorting 'cross town to The Birthday Party's 'Release The Bats', or with three cigarettes lit between my lips and adorned with "Don't question me, sweetie!" Seriously: don't question me, sweetie. More realistically: I really am a baboon.

5. If you could own any piece of art by any artist what would it be?

Haha! I already do own it. It's the original to this, a portrait of Mark Simpson, co-creator of Page 45, by Nabiel Kanan. My best friend drawn to perfection by my favourite comicbook artist? Doesn't get better than that!

Nabiel Kanan - draft of Page45 website

 

6. Do you create your own artwork/comic?

I used to. The shame of letting it lie!

My first job ever was as the in-house artist for a company called Ralawise, and for many years afterwards I continued freelance under the name of Pan. That's something I have never revealed before in public. Never!

All those Pan prints that went on sale during Page 45's early years...? That was me. But I wanted real purchases, not sympathy purchases, so I kept it to myself. Their reception was ridiculously rewarding, and we may re-release those eventually for we have a few copies left. I may eventually get around to the graphic novel too, but I wouldn't hold your collective breath.

In all honesty, though, I have always preferred free-form sketching either from life or from my head. I love that immediacy. But my paintings... they're a bit colour-by-numbers, aren't they? Sorry!

"Joie de Vivre 1" by Pan. The original painting

 

7. What advice would you give to any aspiring comic artists out there?

Draw!

Draw, draw, draw, draw, draw!

Everyone can draw. Everyone can and should draw!

Sketch like crazy! It's so much fun and creativity is cool! The only way to improve is to practise, and you're infinitely better than you think.

Go to Dr. Sketchy's, the Not Up Its Arse Art Class, and enjoy the dazzling diversity of the life models they celebrate. You could not be in more loving company. Cliques for them are like hierarchy to me - utterly monstrous! Instead you will be embraced, cherished and very well looked after.

As to comics in particular, you really do need to study sequential art where you learn how to tell a story in stages. There are some brilliant books like Scott McCloud's MAKING COMICS, Will Eisner's series and for the more ambitious there is Jessica Abel and Matt Madden's DRAWING WORDS AND WRITING PICTURES.

On the other hand, some comicbook creators are entirely self-taught through reading the comics themselves and working out how it's being done: deconstructing then reconstructing. Our own Jamie McKelvie's amongst them, and he totally triumphed with PHONOGRAM: THE SINGLES CLUB, which is the same several hours down one single nightclub as seen through several different perspectives. It's about music as magic. Which it is.
 

8. What big plans are in the pipeline for Page 45?

Oh, you don't get all the goss. I'm going to bed.

But I did give a big clue or two above.

Also: have you read this blog? Page 45 done won an award, and the benefits are only beginning! ;)



Thanks Stephen!  Remember our next show is on Saturday 13th October and will be hot, hot, HOT. Starring fire performances from Vivid Angel and Fifi Fatale, plus modelling from Mimi Libertine and all the usual competitions, prizes and more! Have a peek at our website for full info and to buy tickets. See you there!

Scarlett & Charlotte
x

New Sponsor!

We are very happy to annouce that Dr Sketchy's Nottingham has a new sponsor, Nottingham's fantastic independent book store Page 45, the only place to go for comics if you want superb choice and extremely knowledgable staff. They have very generously donated goodies for our prize table for the rest of our 2012 shows!

Check out their website for reviews, previews, recommendations, comic of the month and online shop!

PAGE 45

Our next show "Von Vaudeville" is on Saturday 16th June and stars Beatrix Von Bourbon, currently through to the semi finals of the latest season of Britain's Got Talent, and Velma Von Bon Bon, one of the rising stars of the UK Burlesque scene.

Tickets are on sale via our website www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk

Social Networking

For those of you who indulge (waste your life away) in a spot of online networking on sites like Facebook and Twitter, here's a couple of links to keep you bang up to date with all of our bi-monthly shows, mini events, performer and model info and dastardly plot hatching at Dr Sketchy Nottingham HQ.

Facebook

Twitter

Join, Like, Follow.. you get the idea!

Sponsor Special - Miss Rain Photography

For those of you who have been to one of our events you will no doubt have seen the gorgeous blonde behind the huge camera, sneaking around the venue snapping away while you scribble. Her name is Emma, aka Miss Rain Photography, and I wanted you all to know a little more about her.

Emma has been a sponsor of Dr Sketchy Nottingham since the very beginning and we are very grateful for the hard work she puts in and the fabulous images she takes of our performers, models, audience and artwork.

I had a little Q and A with her the other day.....

Scarlett - How old were you when you first picked up a camera?

Emma - I’ve always had a camera in hand for as long as I can remember but it was more for taking pictures of things I thought were interesting or that I wanted to remember rather than for art. The first time I did something artistic was when I was 16 and studying for GCSEs with my best friend at the time. I had bought a black and white film for my camera and I think we were in the mood for procrastinating! I made her dress up in a white dress and fairy wings and took photos in my parents’ garden. I asked for a good digital camera for Christmas, (all 2 megapixels of it!) and started taking pictures of my friend’s bands.

S - What made you decide to become a professional photographer?

E - I always wanted to work for myself but knew how difficult it was and worked my photography around a full-time job. I lost my job and made the decision to move to Nottingham. I searched for jobs but couldn’t find anything that I felt connected to apart from photography. I decided then that I would never be happy if I wasn’t working in Photography so I contacted the Prince’s Trust about setting up my own business. The rest, as they say, is history.

S - What is the best "accidental" photograph you've ever taken?

E - I was thinking really hard about this one and then I did a shoot a couple of days ago in a hotel. The model, Millie Dollar, stood up on the bed and said “Would it be cool if I swung off this chandelier?!” So she did! Luckily Tim, who was assisting me, grabbed the light out of the way and I shot from the hip. Funnily enough we didn’t do another shot after we realised the chandelier was coming away from the ceiling... ;)

S - Have you ever "papped" a celebrity?

E - Not for professional but I have for personal! Me and my other half went to see my favourite band Gaslight Anthem in Birmingham. We got a little lost and parked a little way away from the venue and walked round the back towards the entrance. As we were walking down on the other side of the road, I spied Brian Fallon, the singer from the band walking towards us. I freaked out and ran across the road, narrowly being missed by a passing taxi, just to talk to him and have my photo taken with him. So kind of papped, kind of awesome start to our night!

S - Do you prefer studio or location shoots?

E - It depends really. I love the control that you get over a studio shoot, as sometimes with a location you don’t know what you’re getting until you get there, the light might be different or something has changed. I have had the benefit of working in some amazing locations though and without the kindness of the people running these locations some images just wouldn’t be the same. I just wish I could have a studio big enough to build sets, that would be amazing! Locations without having to leave my studio!

S - What lengths would you go to for a good location?

E - Hee hee. I think the question should be what lengths have I gone to for a good location! I was doing a steampunk style shoot with Rayna Terror for Lovechild Boudoir and had found an old abandoned train yard to shoot in. Two days before the shoot all the trains had been moved that were there a week earlier! There were a couple left but they were behind a 6 foot spiky fence. So we turned up on the day of the shoot and there just so happened to be two step ladders and a roll of carpet there to use to get over the fence... How convenient! (Scarlett - hmm..... I wonder who put them there!)

S - What's the strangest prop you've ever used in a shoot?

E - I think when we use glitter it tends to get a bit messy! Myself and Sali (Ms Moo Makeup) have put glitter paint on a bald models head and also mixed glitter with golden syrup for Anna Fur Laxis to drip from her hands. I’m sure Scarlett will remember that one! (Scarlett - yes I remember being very sticky that afternoon!)

S - What is your equipment of choice?

E - I currently own and use a Canon 7D with a 24-70mm f2.8 lens and Bowens 500w lights. I used to work for Calumet so having all of that equipment around me all the time was very tempting! Although I’ve used Canon cameras for years I’m comfortable using Nikons too so I’m not too biased! Hee hee!

S - Who are you inspired by?

E - My favourite photographers are 666 Photography, Julian M Kilsby and Perou but I tend to be more inspired by models, performers, make-up artists, hair stylists and art.

S - Who or where would you love to photograph that you haven't yet?

E - I would love to photograph Ulorin Vex. I think that she was one of the first models that I looked up to and it she is a benchmark for my photography. I would love to go over to America and shoot the models there. Maybe LA.

S - What goals do you have for 2011?

E - I think just for my business to grow and to be recognised for the work that I’ve put in. I don’t ask for much in life, just to be healthy and happy but if my business takes off then it would make my year.


Emma has also started a joint venture with Ms Moo Makeup called Flashes and Lashes, offering photo shoots with full hair and make up. "Whether you want a photo shoot to boost your confidence (lost weight? new haircut?), as a sultry pre-wedding boudoir shoot for your fiancé (cheeky!) or to start building a modelling portfolio, Flashes and Lashes are able to create what you need with ease. Having known each other for over 5 years, they work exceptionally well together and will do their up most to ensure you are comfortable and bring out the very best in you for your photos." I would highly recommend them!


Emma will be back behind the lens on Saturday for our "Ladies of Comedy" event at the Glee Club. Say hello and make sure you get her attention if you'd like your artwork photographed for our web gallery!

Tickets are still on sale and are now cheaper only if you get them in advance from the website http://www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk/

See you on Saturday!

Scarlett  x

Photoshoot for Dr Sketchy Sponsors My Old China

December saw us take part in a very incestuous Photoshoot for our sponsors My Old China who provide vintage china and linen hire for weddings and tea parties throughout the East Midlands.

I say incestuous as it was a rather Dr Sketchy affair! Myself and Scarlett modelled, alongside Dr Sketchy Nottingham Regulars Betty Jane, Emerald Ace and Jody Capuano, and if that wasn't enough the photography came courtesy of Dr Sketchy Birmingham host Candee Handful, I think you'll agree she did a marvellous job. The theme, as you can probably tell was the Mad Hatters Tea Party! We had such a great morning shooting, what a giggle!

There's always show stealer, I don't like to point fingers but like her name-sake, none of us could outshine Dita the Cat! 

x Charlotte

Photographs all Copyright of Candee Photography 2011, do not download or copy without permission from Candee Photography.

Nightmares before Christmas

With just over a week to go before our December event, the last show of 2010, things are gearing up nicely. As Christmas is just around the corner we thought we'd celebrate in our own special way, with a little nod to the dark and twisted soul that is Tim Burton. Who said this time of year has to be full of carols and candy canes!

We've scoured the country for acts that would do our theme justice and oh boy have we found a couple of corkers! I've had the pleasure to perform on the same bill as both of these lovely ladies, strangely at the same show but on different nights, The Wet Spot in Leeds, which is without a doubt one of the best burlesque and cabaret shows in the UK so go along if you can.

So..... onto the performers.

Bringing us the character of Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas we have Suzie Sequin , a "burlesque performer, actress, singer, dancer and international pin-up model made up of classic rock n roll and vintage pin up glamour, with a bohemian streak!"

And for those of you who remember the Metz adverts Sherry Trifle's act The Judderman will be very familiar. She's a "truly scrumptious recipe for a little bit of fruity burlesque ........a whole lot of calorie-filled yummy naughtiness with lashings of cream and cherries on top." and quite fitting with a description like that she will also be bringing her giant trifle dish along to pose in as well!

This show will be at our usual venue Escucha on Fletcher Gate in Nottingham. Doors open at 12:30, the show will kick off at 1:00 and we'll be all wrapped up by 4:00. Tickets are on sale through the website http://www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk/ .

There will be competitions, prizes, cocktails, cupcakes and fun and we really hope to see you there!

Scarlett x

Happy Birthday to us!

Saturday 14th August 2010 is Dr Sketchy Nottingham's first birthday!! What a year it's been! We want to thank the amazing line up of performers and models that have helped make our Sketchy branch such a success so far...

Diva Hollywood
Mysti Vine
Des O'Connor
Ryvita Von Cheese
Emerald Ace
Leyla Rose
Missy Malone
Anna Fur Laxis
Fanny Divine
Frankii Wilde
Zara Ann
Khandie Khisses
Lola Pops
Betty Jane
Jody Capuano
Malificent Martini
and Dee Christopher (sorry to anyone I've forgotten!)


So what do we have to offer you for our big birthday "Kiss me Quick" Summer Seaside show?

Here's a little taste of what's to come. Introducing.... Miss Leggy Pee!.... (and Charlie)






And that's not all.

As well as the lovely Leggy we have a bathing beauty all the way from Grimsby, Snappy O'Shea! Bringing her very fetching inflatable....

So if that's enough to tickle your fancy get your tickets from the usual place http://www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk/ dig out your buckets and spades, knot your best hankie in place and get down to Escucha for 12:30pm on Saturday!

See you there!

Scarlett x

Dr Sketchy Nottingham at Delicious Burlesque Festival

A great time was had yesterday at Delicious in Derby! I was joined by Sketchy Nottingham regular Jake Gumbleton who had the fab idea of doing some live drawing, so we spent the afternoon chasing down pretty girls (Benny Hill style) to sit for us! We were later joined by another of our regulars Aiden and much beer was consumed!

Good times!

Big thanks to my dad who was a trooper, taking Scarletts place as Sketchy cohort for the day while she was performing at the Hot Rod Hayride!

Also huge congratulations to Elle Amour who was crowned Queen of the burlesque newcomers by myself, Kittie Klaw, Joe Black and Beatrix Von Bourbon. A definite star in the making!

Thanks to Shaz & Jules of Heresy n Heelz and the team at State if the Art events for putting on such a great event, the stalls and stage shows were fab and everything was super well organised! Kudos chaps I know how hard you must have worked!

xCharlotte







- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Dr Sketchy Nottingham at Delicious Burlesque Festival Derby

I'm thrilled to annouce that we will be be representing Dr Sketchy at Delicious Burlesque Festival on July 31st 2010 with a stall showing off all the exciting things we've been up in 2009 and 2010.

Ther following is the press release for Delicious:-

31st July 2010 sees the launch of the UK’s ‘Greatest Burlesque
Experience’ - ‘Delicious’. With an expected attendance of over 1,000 guests itis likely to be one of the UK’s biggest and most unique events of its kind thisyear.

‘Delicious’ seeks to recreate the golden age of Burlesque, the glamour, the sequins, tassels and fans, the “ooohs” and the “aahhs”!

Open 2pm - 2am
Tickets from www.delicious-burlesque.com


Main Show - Great Hall 9pm
compèred by
Rosie Lugosi & Desmond O’Connor
Starring
Natsumi Scarlett
Kittie Klaw
Roxy Velvet
Beatrix Von Bourbon
Vicky Butterfly
Joe Black
Miss Pink & Fluffy
Mademoiselle Lili La Scala

Newcomers Competition - Great Hall 7pm
(which I will be co-judging with Kittie Klaw and Beatrix Von Bourbon)

Burlesque/Vintage/Alternative Market

Burlesque Beginners Tuition Workshop
(Ministry of Burlesque Academy)

Practical Skills Workshops
(Beatrix Von Bourbon)

Live Bands + DJ Mikey Wong

12 Hours of Burlesque Fun & Entertainment

The highlight of ‘Delicious’ will be a glittering stage-show adorned with luminaries of the International Burlesque and Cabaret Scene, presented by Rosie Lugosi ‘The Vampire Queen’. Topping the bill is Amsterdam’s aerial specialist Natsumi Scarlett, a circus trained performer and ballerina synonymous with fast-paced highly theatrical routines. Exclusively for ‘Delicious’ she will premiere a stunning new routine culminating in a breathtaking aerial display on silk ribbons. Other highlights include Ministry of Burlesque founder Kittie Klaw, a unique and sought after specialist of 'British Burlesque’; London’s Roxy Velvet, perched high above the stage in an 11ft birdcage with pyrotechnics and New Zealand songbird Lili La Scala withburlesque performances featuring live operatic vocals.

In addition to an array of international stars, ‘Delicious’ has been scouring theUK for the best up-and-coming talent, and presents the ‘Delicious’ Newcomers Competition. This features eight fantastic performers, handpicked from a series of regional auditions, who will battle it out to win some amazing prizes and a slot in the main show! The final takes place on the main stage at 7pm, hosted by cabaret legend Desmond O’Connor.

To complete the bill there is a full programme of supporting features enabling guests to spend a whole day immersed in glamour and beauty. Why not ‘shop till you drop’ in the UK’s biggest ever burlesque and vintage market? Launch your own burlesque career with expert tuition from the Ministry of
Burlesque’s Academy, or maybe just spend a few hours relaxing with friends being entertained by some great live bands and DJs throughout.

The Derby LIVE Assembly Rooms is one of the Midlands’ premier concert and entertainment venues regularly hosting symphony orchestras, international ballet, opera, rock and pop concerts, music festivals and corporate events.

There is something for everyone at ‘Delicious’, whether you’re an
experienced performer, a lifelong fan, or just plain curious, so prepare yourself for a roller-coaster ride through the rich tapestry of performance art that is Burlesque..... ‘Delicious’ just doesn't begin to describe what’s in store!

Hope to see you all there!
Charlotte x

www.drsketchy.com
www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk

A shout out to our Sketchy regulars

Last Saturday was our 5th Dr Sketchy Nottingham show and thanks to our amazing audience, fantastic performers and faithful helpers was another huge success!

I wanted to give a shout out to two of our regular Sketchy monkeys. They've been with us from the start and both blog about their art. Here are a couple of snippets (Sketchy related of course) from Aidan and Jake, two very talented chaps who are definitely worth keeping an eye on. Thanks for the support guys! :)

http://pixelherding.blogspot.com/2010/04/world-domination-part-1.html


http://jakegumbleton.blogspot.com/2010/02/dr-sketchy-quickies.html

Scarlett x

Introducing Dr Sketchy Liverpool!!

We were over the moon at Nottingham Sketchy HQ when we heard that our very good friend and coincidentally one of our very first models, Diva Hollywood, had been given the OK to set up a Dr Sketchy branch in her home town of Liverpool with partner Steve Angstrom.

To show our support we're telling anyone who'll listen why their Dr Sketchy is a must for all aspiring art monkeys, and if you still need a little convincing here's Diva and Steve to tell you more...

Why did you and Steve decide to set up a branch of Dr Sketchy's in Liverpool?

Diva - Well we have really enjoyed the ones we have been to and as we both come from an art background we thought it would be fun to bring one to Liverpool. There is a great art scene in Liverpool (with the Biennial and lots of other events) but it's quite separate from the burlesque scene. So we thought this would be a great way of bringing these two scenes together. It's been years since I have been to an art class so this way I get to start a fun event and brush up on my own drawing skills too.

Steve - Visiting other Sketchy's made me break out my pencils for the first time in ages, and it was really refreshing. It's a great way of appreciating the artists too, like John Ruskin said "there's no better way to appreciate a semi naked lovely than to trace her with your pencil." OK perhaps I made that up. I think the main reason is that Sketchy combines a lot of things I love: creativity, meeting people and sauciness!

How do you think you will add to the UK Sketchy family?

Diva - Our backgrounds mean we bring some unusual talents to the event that make it something a little bit different. For instance, I did a lot of digital art and interactive performance before I became a burlesquer and Steve has a pretty varied background too.

Steve - Yeah that background has influenced a lot of our ideas for these events. Hoepfully we get to do some of the wackier ideas! But even on a simple level I think that being part of some very different scenes makes us interested in bringing lots of different sorts of people together.

Diva - An event like Sketchy in Liverpool is a great place for people to meet up, and create a lot of new artist collaborations.

Steve - Yes but it's not just the artists, I think it's tough for people in general to express themselves to others, and make bonds or meet up on common ground. So I'm interested in that, providing a way for people to link up socially and chat as well as express themselves.

Diva - We also feel very strongly about having an event and a space that is disabled friendly so we can have the whole range of artists take part. I think the more diverse the audience the better the event.

Tell us about your own artistic backgrounds

Diva - I am a pure geek. I have a post grad in electronic imaging. Until I got sick (with M.S) you would always see me in front of a computer creating something. I especially loved video, animation and digital collage; a lot of my work looked like pre-Raphaelite painting, but was actually created using a computer.

Steve - I left art school a month before the end of my course, to join a band. Being in a band is a whole other kind of art education; working with lights and making videos, creating installations, that sort of thing. During that time I used to go and use the facilities in the Liverpool University art department, all the video camers and animation equipment, even though I was never a student there! I think I helped provoke their much more stringent security policies. Erm, is that an artistic background, or a criminal background?

Who inspires you and why?

Diva - I have such a varied mix of inspirations. I love the power, colours and stories of the old master painters. I try to bring something of that emotion to all the art work I make. My inspirations come from a very wide perspective, Anthony Gormley, Pierre & Giles, Harold Lloyd and Lily St Cyr to name but a few.

Steve - My inspirational figures are anyone who is striking out for something different; all those absurdists, situationists, outsiders, moral transgressors, weirdos and individuals. It's so easy for any of us to get stuck in a rut, so I think the world needs the people who are willing to take a chance and just strike out for something new and fun. Horray for them!

What other exciting things does 2010 have in store for you?

Diva - We have started a production company with lots of plans for 2010, small films, photography and plenty of other stuff like that.

Steve - Yes, we've started with a comic book, which is a sort of modern day Tijuana Bible, full of strange kinky illustrated stories, and that's still in production. Beyond that we have some photos and films ideas lined up, which all blend the burlesque style with something more weird.

Diva - I am learning the bull whip and it's an amazing thing. I love the sound of it when you get the "crack" to work. I have a great act idea using the whip and hopefully it will be finished for later this year. We plan to head off to New York and LA for some adventures, but I can't tell you any more about that just yet. Then in November I will be curating part of the Dada festival and Dr Sketchy will be a part of that, all very exciting! I am loving this year so far and can't wait to see how all these projects pan out and getting people involved in the films and artwork.

Steve - Yep, we are always on the look out for people to get involved with those projects so if anyone wants to be part of a kinky photo/video art thang they can let us know via our website http://www.kinkydarling.com/

Well there you go! Dr Sketchy Liverpool's first show is on Sunday 25th April at the Kazimier, Wolstenholme Square from 3pm until 7pm. With performances and modelling by Bella Besame, Ditzy Diamond and Nottingham Sketchy's own Scarlett Daggers. Tickets are only £6 and are available to buy online through the website, you'll find info on the line up, future events, the venue and sponsors too so click and see!

Links

Diva Hollywood on the web

Dr Sketchy Liverpool on Facebook

Delicious Burlesque Auditions

Much fun was had this Saturday at the Delicious Burlesque newcomers auditions by myself and my events partner in crime Scarlett Daggers.

I was kindly asked by Jules of Heresy n Heelz to take part in selecting the final 8 performers who will compete at the final Delicious event in July. My co- judge was the lovely Kittie Klaw of the Ministry of Burlesque. It was a very hard job judging as all the performers were very strong, after much debate and lots of sweets and cream eggs we decided on 8 ladies who we felt performed burlesque in its truest sense and who entertained us the most!

A big thankyou to everyone who took part, I was thoroughly entertained all afternoon and I hope I'll see all of you on lots of event line ups to come!

To the 8 that made it through I can't wait to see you again at the big event!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Birmingham

Charlotte Thomson Artwork now showing at Cuadros Gallery Nottingham

I am thrilled to announce that my artwork can now be seen at Cuadros gallery in Hockley (Nottingham). Cuadros is a brand new gallery displaying gorgeous and unusual artwork from local and international talents. You can see my work alongside Jon Burgerman, Banksy, work from top tattoo artists and my current favourite discovery Tim Lee, a macabre genius!

Cuadros will be exhibiting pieces from my Masquerade collection – Including “Masque Moon”, Masque Rouge and Masque Diva, plus my newest pieces “Grande Grotesque”, “Let them have Cake and Eat it” and “Glamourous Grotesque”, previously only seen at Danse Macabre exhibition.

For all of you who greatly miss craftsmanship and practical artistic skill in contemporary artwork, this gallery is sure to make you feel a whole lot better. Traditional media and techniques abound but with a truly modern and refreshing style and outlook. Much of the artwork has an illustrative feel with all of the artists on show a master of their chosen media – whether that be spray paint, acrylics, mosaic tiles or ink.

A mini exhibition of Tim Lees work will be on show in the gallery this month so join us for the private view (my work will be on display too) on March 25th – 5pm – 8pm. RSVP to george@cuadros.co.uk. Good company and incredible artwork guaranteed!


1A Heathcoat Street (opposite Ice Nine)
Hockley
Nottingham
NG1 3AF

www.cuadros.co.uk

Anna Fur Laxis at Dr Sketchy Nottingham

As a little treat before our Bettie Page tribute show on Saturday we thought we’d take a closer look at one of our performers.

The intro on her website says it all. “Praised for her creativity, humour and originality, Anna’s unique take on traditional burlesque performance has gained a truly international reputation, with shows in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Las Vegas, Milan, Paris and Tokyo.”

Described by New York burlesque legend Dirty Martini as having "the absolute best take on the current Bettie Page mania. In a time where every rock-a-billy chick is sporting the Bettie pinup look, Anna takes it to a new level with a witty twist and a totally charming and accomplished stage persona.” Who else could we possibly be talking about, but the breathtaking, pulse-raising, and occasionally fatal, Anna Fur Laxis.

We feel very lucky indeed to have tempted Anna to our stage and can't wait to see the audience reaction to her "Viva Bettie" act, where she brings the 50's pin up icon to life through "woman's eternal dilemma: Should she try and be good? Or is it more fun to be bad!?!" It's definitely one of our favourites!

In true praise of Anna’s talents one of Bettie Page’s friends, Joan Branden, contacted her last year with this lovely personal message...

"Dear Anna,

I worked with Betty Page in the early 1950's whilst I lived in New York and before I was married. I loved working with her and she was very professional, a sweet girl. I was thrilled to hear that you are performing a Stage act about Bettie Page and I know she would have been delighted that you are doing it, it makes me so very proud that people still remember those days of Irving Klaw and us girls.

Joan Branden."

Anna's response was understandable. It's not every day you are contacted by the old friend of one of your heros! "Bettie Page died while I was working on my tribute act to her, so I felt it was very important that I do her memory the best justice I possibly could. I am so proud to be able to follow in the footsteps of Bettie and Joan and so many incredible women over the years, and it was a true honour to receive this message."

To see Anna, as well as Fanny Divine and Betty Jane, performing and modelling in our Bettie Page show come to Escucha on Fletcher Gate in Nottingham on Saturday 20th February at 12:30pm. Tickets are on sale through the website http://www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk/ or on the door (first come first served). We truly can't wait for this one and hope to see you there!

For more info on Anna and her upcoming shows click the link below!

Scarlett and Charlotte x

Mini Dr Sketchy Pit of Curiosities Special

Much fun was had on saturday at our mini taster event - inspite of lots of tired faces from the night before! The mini event was a follow on from Pit of Curiosities, a big event held on Friday night by Danse Macabre. Scarlett and I were both heavily involved with Scarlett performing as a robot all night in a costume we made together.

Our models on saturday were -
Emma Neale (aka Miss Rain Photographym, who stepped in last minute as Barbarella!)
Mat Douglas who posed as both a maid (Rocky Horror style) and an Alien Autopsy (his costume from Pit of Curiosities) and
Hannah Morgan who posed as a steampunk babe in Eternal Spirits corsetry and some pretty cool goggles!

We were a little short staffed but with a lot of comraderie and hard work and a very understanding audience we pulled it off and had a great turn out! We had to fetch more chairs and squeezed everyone into the upstairs room at the Central. There were lots of new faces which is always fantastic!

Massive thanks to Natalie J Watts who took over as photographer when Emma stepped up as a model and provided all the music when we reallised we had none due to my laptop meltdown two weeks ago!! Everyone took on several jobs to help out, doubling up as DJs, doorstaff and sales clerks! What a bunch of troopers, THANK YOU!

We can't wait til this Saturday (20th) event now, it's the BIG one, the real McCoy and we have a fantastic line up for you! Grab your tickets in advance from the website or pay on the door, Doors open 12:30 at Escucha!

x Charlotte

Well it's happening tomorrow whether we like it or not! Pit of Curiosities 2 at the Pit and Pendulum kicks off at 8pm ! Finishing touches


are being made to costumes, there's no gong back now! Look forward to seeing you all there!

Ps. Don't forget to join us on saturday from 1.30 at the Central for Dr Sketchy mini event with models from tomorrows Pit if Curiosities event!!

Www.drsketchynottingham.co.ukfor details

Www.dansemacabre-art.co.uk/pitofcuriosities2.html

X Charlotte x

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Bettie Page Special - Saturday 20th February

Well it's not long now until the first Dr Sketchy Nottingham show of 2010!

We're kicking off with a corker of a show, a tribute to the fabulous Bettie Page. Taking to the stage this time around we have two of the UK's top burlesque performers Anna Fur Laxis and Fanny Divine and an extra treat with Nottingham's very own Betty Jane modelling for us too. They will be providing us with the very best of good and bad Bettie poses to get your pencils smoking!

We have more fantastic prizes, thanks to our ever growing list of wonderful sponsers (there may even be another Robin Hood scribbling book in there if you're lucky) and more cupcakes than you can possibly stuff your faces with, courtesy of Dotty's Cafe on Mansfield Road.

Tickets are as usual on sale through the website and will be available to buy at the mini event we are running at the Central on Saturday 13th February as part of Nottingham's Light Night celebrations.

We'll hopefully see you there!

Scarlett x

New Sponsors announced for 2010!

We're really excited to announce new sponsors for 2010 for Dr Sketchy Nottingham !

Baby Tattoo Books, a US based book publisher specialising in beautiful artist/illustrator led books have donated one book per 2010 Sketchy event for us to give away, the prize table is looking more appealing already!

Charnos, yes, that well known lingerie company, will be dressing some of our models in 2010 with their Hourglass range of lingerie and shapewear. More info on this to follow but we believe they will feature as a part of our February 20th show....watch this space!

We also need to say a big thank you to our regular sponsors who have supported us continuously through 2009 - Susi from Eternal Spirits Corsetry who has clothed our models and donated prizes for the prize table, Susie from Dottys Cafe the mistress of cupcakes! Matt, Paul and Jody from Danse Macabre who we mutually support and who help us promote all the events, The Shop who continue to promote us and donate prizes and by association The Smears all girl punk rockers who donated limited edition Vinyls at our last event. AND of course our Photographers -

Spike from Vapour Trail Photography, Emma from Miss Rain Photography and stepping in at our last event Paul from Monsignor Photographic.

A big THANK YOU to everyone and most importantly, all your arty folks who have attended the events and made them so much fun! 2009's events blew our socks off, we had no idea how popular Dr Sketchy would be in Nottingham!!

x Charlotte & Scarlett

Arty Ideas for Dr Sketchy December

Heres some info about our Dec models to get your creative Juices flowing!

Missy Malone and Leyla Rose are delicious stars of the burlesque scene, raven haired temptresses with dazzling costumes. I have done studies of both these women in the past and I can only begin to express what a treat they are to draw.

Leyla Rose is 100% curves! Perfect for charcoal, thick marker pens or other soft flowing media... or why not sneak in some watercolour crayons. Leyla is elegant and voluptuous with a big dose of sauciness, think classical venus meets bettie page! You'll be able to create some beautiful curvy artwork.

Missy Malone is a bundle of larger than life energy on stage and strikes a great pose, her expressive face is great to capture, if you like drawing cartoons and charicatures you'll LOVE drawing Missy. Simple media for quick sketches is recommended, try sketching her while she performs as capturing her movements makes for a dramatic image.

Both women have great faces to get likenesses of or to charicature if that's your bag! They will be doing some joint poses and the juxtaposition between their very different characters and figures is a great thing to focus a drawing on.

Also, dont forget if you fancy meeting the ladies in person and having them teach you a think of two about burlesque, their fan dance workshop is on Sunday at the Ropewalk, more info on the sketchy website www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk.

Our additional model for December is Peachy Clean, a local lass with a lot of attitude and style, she plays in all girl punk band The Smears and it'll be her birthday at Sketchy, cake cake cake!

I'm just uploading a few pics from the last sketchy, taken by me so they're a bit rubbish, our proper photographers images are on the way, i'm sure they're a million times better than mine! Theres a video that i've just put on youtube too, check the group as i'm adding it shortly.

Dont forget about our FREEE mini Sketchy event, open to all ages (parental supervision for under 16s please) on Nov 14th at Danse Macabre exhibition www.dansemacabre-art.co.uk
It'll be at the old Beatties Toy Shop, round the corner from angel row Library. It starts at 3pm, be there or be terribly uncool! Bring your own media as usual, you may want to bring a cushion or blanket as seating may be limited however we will make sure there are seats for anyone who has genuine difficulty sitting on the floor....and we'll mop so it's nice and clean!

Our models are Maleficent Martini (gothy punky ballerina!) and Dee Christopher illusionist extraordinaire who will be performing at the private view later that night. Bring your black crayon, it's going to be dark and spooky!

Tickets for Decembers event are on sale now! www.drsketchynottingham.co.uk
Hope to see you there!
x
Charlotte

Doctor Sketchy Deux Round Up

A BIG thank you to everyone who attended the very funny second Dr Sketchy Nottingham!

I havent read all the comments cards yet as I've been struck with the dreaded lurgie and excessive amounts of deadlines but feedback we will be listening to so far is ....

• More opportunities to talk to and get to know the other guests. This is being addressed! We are looking at ideas that won't involve embarrassing team building-icebreaker games that are popular at conference and swingers parties and that will hopefully involve more social time for drinks and a natter before and/or after the event...we will keep you updated!

• Better spot lighting on the stage for more defined shadows. This is something I'm pretty sure we had at the first event but neglected at the second due to last minute panics over the sound system.

• Not having the DJ sat in a prime drawing spot - now this is something we can't address at Escucha as literally there is no other place we can put him, we dont have a long enough lead!!! As for the organisers taking up prime drawing spots, WE DRAW TOO! And I actually have evidence of the DJ drawing, his erotic stick-women are legendary! Another reason I need to be next to the stage is to wave my arms frantically and pull faces at the backstage crew (stage directions), I also need to be able to leap onto the stage in a split second incase of major disaster or costume failure or if a scuffle breaks out over the prize table (those robin hood colouring in postcards are a rarity you know!) . We will however be looking at getting higher chairs behind the DJ sofa so our big heads aren't getting in your way so much!

Further updates on feedback are on their way, another blog post is soon to follow. Dont forget our next event is a mini Dr Sketchy and is FREE it's the Danse Macabre special, check out www.dansemacabre-art.co.uk/dm_nottm2009.html.

Our next full Dr Sketchy is on Dec 5th with Missy Malone and Leyla Rose, a real treat NOT TO BE MISSED!

Following that, for those of you who have got a taste for burlesque and fancy having a go, Missy & Leyla will be doing a burlesque fan dancing workshop at The Ropewalk, check out the main Sketchy Nottingham website for details and tickets. Its open to men and women and focusses on the art of fan dance, theres no nudity required or tassel twirling involved, it's all in the best possible taste and guaranteed to be fun and informative. We think it makes a great early Xmas gift, OR even better, learn and then surprise your other half with your dancing skills on Xmas day!

See you all soon!
x Charlotte