Friday 15 June 2012

Bishi & The Dark Magic of Angela Carter

Photo By Julian Foxton

2012 is the 20 year death anniversary of Angela Carter, one of the late 20th Century's most influential & ground breaking writers.


A few years back, I had the joy of being one of the judges for The PRS Foundation's 'New Music Award,' where I met fellow judge & outstanding pianist Joanna MacGregor.
 

We really hit it off . So much so, that she invited me to be a part of a very special performance to close The Bath Festival 2012 entitled, 'The Dark Magic of Angela Carter.'


 MacGregor was commissioned by The Angela Carter Estate, to set to music, some unpublished poems , that I had the honour of singing as a world premiere. This very prestigious evening, also featured readings by, one of Carter's close friends, Marina Warner & actress, Harriet Walter.

The presentation was loosely based on Carter's musical selection from Desert Island Discs. We were joined by Kiku Day on Shakuhachi, Genevieve Wilkins on Percussion & Martynas Levickis on Accordion, in an evening of music & spoken word. 

 Photo By Julian Foxton

I can say hand on my heart that being involved with this show has been one of the most exceptional I've ever experienced. You couldn't hear a pin drop in the room.

Meeting Marina Warner has been particularly inspiring, having been a fan of her writing for so long. After the performance, she recounted how establishment figures, such as Salman Rushdie, revered Angela Carter's work & recognised her magnitude as a writer. I was totally blown away.

I've also been enjoying Susannah Clapp's book - 'A postcard from Angela Carter,' whom I also had the pleasure of meeting. Do buy it if you are a fan - it's a heart warming read.





I hear there are plans to bring the show to London - I really hope that this can happen!

Many Thanks to Julian Foxton Photography, The Bath Festival & Claudine Spiteri at  Livestock Productions.





Tuesday 5 June 2012

Bishi & The Diamond Jubilee

Love or Hate The Monarchy, there's no denying they know how to put on a good show & create the most jaw dropping spectacle. Whether it's weddings, flotilla's or post pop concert fireworks, no one tops The House of Windsor. Personally, I am interested in The Royal Family as a controversial institution that continue to divide the people in their opinions.











I was amazed how  the feeling was on the streets of London was wonderfully mellow with empty champagne bottles lining up The Embankment instead of the traditional pools litter & vomit. 

Anyway….

The New Line of Bishi Ltd edition Prints & Ceramics are on display as part of a groups show called, 'Souvneir.'

Curated by Josh Knowles, The Pump House Gallery in Battersea, is hosting a month long exhibition of Royal Memorabilia provided by the public. 'Souvenir,' is an on going project by Knowles about popular culture, mass production & souvenirs.
http://pumphousegallery.org.uk/exhibitions/souvenir
Here are some photos about the exhibition:















In the spirit of Queens & regality I just have to add how INCREDIBLE I thought Grace Jones, Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones & McCartney were at The Diamond Jubilee Concert. It was the legends who were showing up the kids this week. And what a joy it was.


AMEN!