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Carry On, Barbara Windsor

My tribute to the legend Dame Barbara Windsor (1931–2020)This article was first published in the year of Barbara’s passing. I felt it was important that it did not fade away, not only as a tribute to Barbara’s extraordinary talent and character, but also in recognition of Scott Mitchell , who has since gone on to do remarkable things.

By Steven Smith

Who did not love Barbara Windsor — the second Queen of the UK and true British acting royalty? I genuinely do not know a single person who, on Thursday 10th December, did not shed a tear at the (though expected) loss of the world’s most bubbly blonde. We will never forget that infectious, suggestive laugh, nor the extraordinary talent of that iconic Cockney bird.

Dame Barbara Windsor was best known for her roles in EastEnders and the Carry On films. Her acting saw her BAFTA-nominated for her role in Sparrows Can’t Sing and Tony-nominated for her Broadway performance in Oh! What a Lovely War.

Barbara became a Dame not just for her work in entertainment, but also for her incredible dedication to charity. Her support spanned a diverse range of causes, including Age Concern, Age UK, the Amy Winehouse Foundation, Great Ormond Street Hospital — the list truly is endless.

I can’t hand on heart say that Barbara was a close friend of mine — the word friend is used so liberally these days. But over the years, I encountered her many times and was fortunate enough to spend quality time with her. You never forgot a chat with Barbara, because in a world of showbiz magic, she was refreshingly real and wonderfully to the point.

My first outing on the London showbiz scene was with journalist Lester Middlehurst. It was a little nerve-wracking for me, and among the celebrities present was Barbara Windsor, who knew Lester well. My dad was a huge fan of the Carry On films, as was I, and I felt star-struck and slightly out of my depth. Before I knew it, there were around five flamboyant men all vying for Barbara’s attention.

Standing beside me was a very handsome dark-haired fellow named Scott. It was a relief chatting to him — he was down-to-earth, funny, and instantly put me at ease. Not long after, Barbara came over to us. Of course, Scott was her fella, and together they were simply lovely — a genuinely warm and affectionate couple.

Being keen on theatre, I asked Barbara what it was like working at the Royal Court with Joan Littlewood. She looked at me quizzically and said, “What did you ask me, darling?” I repeated the question just as her posse of admirers returned.

At June Browns book launch with Scott and Barbra

“Sshhshh,” she said. “I’m talking to Steven.” She took Scott and me aside and laughed, “That’s not the usual question I get asked.” We had a wonderful chat, and Lester later commented, “Barbara seemed to like you.” She had that rare quality of making people feel special — she genuinely made others feel good.

Over the next few years, I chatted more with Scott — he shared my sense of humour. My next meeting with Barbara was at my dear friend, Irish singer Rose-Marie’s 50th birthday, held in a pub on the Edgware Road. Barbara made a beeline for me.

“You’re always chatting to my Scott,” she said. “You know, darling, some people who ought to know better aren’t always nice to him.”

We spent ages talking about relationships. At the time, my partner was 28 years older than me, and we discussed people’s reactions to age gaps.

I asked her, “Are you looking forward to becoming a Dame?”

“Never — not with my history with Ronnie and the boys,” she laughed.

But right it was — and a Dame she most deservedly became.

There was also a wonderfully camp trip to Marbella with some of the Coronation Street cast, including the fabulous Denise Welch. EastEnders were filming there, and Barbara, Scott, and Rula Lenska joined us for dinner. What a wild night that was.

The last time I saw Barbara and Scott was at June Brown’s book launch, Before the Year Dot. Executives were desperately trying to lure Barbara back into EastEnders — even that night they were pitching it to her. But she wasn’t budging.

“I’ve had enough,” she told me and Rose-Marie.

Something struck me when news of her death broke. So many people began by commenting on her height. Perhaps because I’m not a size-queen, it never once crossed my mind. Barbara was huge in stature — she filled every room with personality and talent. She certainly did not suffer fools gladly. She was, without doubt, a giant of the industry.

Barbara was a true professional. She always had a smile on her face at every event. As her on-screen daughter Daniella Westbrook recently said, Barbara believed you owed it to the public to always put on your happy face: “If you’re not at your best, don’t go out.” Daniella added that once Barbara got home, she liked nothing more than putting the kettle on, taking her shoes off, sitting on the sofa — and simply being Babs.

Babs — who we all miss dearly.

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Columns Lifestyle People

Rocco Ritchie is an artist to be reckoned with.

It would be easy to rush to call Rocco Ritchie a “nepo baby” and dismiss his artistic success as being down to his famous parents. Of course, any help in an industry riddled with nepotism and driven by who you know can be an advantage. However, I am the first to say that Rocco is a huge talent with an original voice — if there is such a thing — and that originality is precisely why he is taking the art world by storm.

Rocco Ritchie is gaining recognition not because of who his parents are, but because of who he is becoming. In an industry often suspicious of famous surnames, he has quietly and confidently carved out a space that feels earned rather than inherited. Far from the caricature of a “nepo baby,” he has demonstrated discipline, originality, and a genuine commitment to craft that has surprised critics and collectors alike.

The label of nepotism is an easy one to reach for. As the son of global icon Madonna and filmmaker Guy Ritchie, Rocco grew up surrounded by creativity, privilege, and cultural capital. Yet what is striking about his artistic rise is how deliberately he stepped away from the spotlight that might have guaranteed instant attention. For years, he worked under a pseudonym, allowing his art to speak before his name did. That decision alone signals intent: Ritchie wanted critique, not cushioning.

His work does not rely on imitation or celebrity gimmickry. While many emerging artists fall into the trap of echoing fashionable trends or overtly referencing their influences, Ritchie resists this. Too often, artists with minimal talent but strong PR and marketing skills are sold to naïve buyers on the strength of a story rather than substance. The work may look good on a wall, but when it comes time to resell, the narrative unravels. Ritchie’s art does not rely on hype; it stands on its

own.

His work feels personal and idiosyncratic, and my hunch is that it will one day sell at serious auction houses. His paintings often explore mood, texture, and form with a restraint that belies his youth. There is confidence in his mark-making and composition, but also vulnerability — an understanding that art is as much about questioning as it is about declaring.

What sets Ritchie apart is that his work resists easy categorisation. There are echoes of classic portraiture, abstract expressionism, and urban grit, yet these elements are filtered through a distinctly contemporary lens. His use of layered surfaces and muted palettes gives the impression of images emerging from memory rather than being presented as finished statements. This refusal to over-explain is refreshing in an age of overexposure.

Equally compelling is Ritchie’s personal evolution. Over recent years, he has grown into a strikingly handsome and self-assured man, yet without the performative bravado often associated with celebrity offspring. There is a quietness to his public presence — a sense that he is more comfortable in the studio than on the red carpet. This grounded demeanour enhances his credibility as an artist committed to longevity rather than instant fame. He does not overtly reference other artists in his work, though there may be subtle echoes of the Mexican greats Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera — favourites of his mother — woven quietly into his visual language.

Public fascination has also been reignited by rare and genuinely touching moments of unity between his parents. Seeing Madonna and Guy Ritchie together in public for the first time in years, supporting their son, struck a chord. In an era where celebrity family dynamics are often reduced to spectacle, their shared pride felt sincere. It underscored that Rocco’s journey has not been about rebellion or reaction, but about reconciliation — between heritage and independence, privilege and purpose.

It would be naïve to deny the influence of Madonna’s deep love of art. A lifelong collector with a formidable eye, she has immersed herself in fine art, from classical masters to cutting-edge contemporary works. Growing up around such visual literacy undoubtedly shaped Rocco’s sensibilities. But influence is not imitation. Rather than copying his mother’s tastes, Ritchie appears to have absorbed an understanding of art as dialogue — between past and present, self and society.

What makes his rise feel so timely is that audiences are craving authenticity. Collectors and critics alike are increasingly weary of hype without substance. Ritchie’s work rewards slow looking. It invites interpretation without dictating meaning. This approach has helped him build genuine momentum, with exhibitions that attract attention not because of scandal or surname, but because viewers are curious to see what he will do next.

Rocco Ritchie’s emergence reminds us that legacy does not have to be a burden. It can be a foundation — one that still requires effort, risk, and humility to build upon. He is not storming the art world with noise, but with nuance. And in today’s cultural climate, that quiet confidence may be the most radical statement of all.

END

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Columns Health and Fitness Lifestyle People Uncategorized

Steven’s Viewz A Christmas Message wishing for Empathy in 2026.

As we approach the end of another eventful year and step into the promise of 2026, I want to begin by wishing every one of you a very Happy Christmas. Whether you celebrate the season quietly, joyfully, or somewhere in between, I hope the coming weeks bring you warmth, connection, and moments of genuine peace. Christmas is a time of reflection as much as celebration, and for me, looking back over 2025 brings both change and gratitude.

One of the biggest changes this year was saying farewell—though never goodbye—to my gorgeous friend and co-founder of 2Shades, Adishiri Chengappa. Many of you will know her as the bright, compassionate, and fiercely driven woman who helped bring this magazine to life. Adishiri has returned to India to study counselling, and I have absolutely no doubt she will become a brilliant one. Her heart, her empathy, and her ability to really listen to people make her an extraordinary human being, and those are precisely the qualities that will make her excel in her new profession.

Although Adishiri is stepping down from the magazine to focus on her studies, she remains a lifelong friend—both to 2Shades and to me personally. Our bond is permanent, and her contribution to the magazine will always be part of its foundations. Behind the scenes, we are now in discussions with a new partner who will join the 2Shades family and help carry the torch forward.

For those of you who may be newer readers, let me say this clearly: 2Shades has never been “just” an LGBTQ+ magazine. From day one, we envisioned a vibrant, inclusive space—a place for everyone. A magazine that is joyful yet unafraid; stylish yet unfiltered; a platform for voices that deserve to be heard. We speak our minds, we cover subjects that others shy away from, and we stand firmly by our philosophy that representation and honesty matter.

Over the years, we’ve covered everything from fashion, art, and entertainment to some of the most difficult and deeply important topics affecting people today. We have reported on male rape, mental health, identity, domestic violence, addiction, grief, and more. The world is multifaceted, and so are the people in it; 2Shades aims to reflect that complexity.

A huge part of what makes this magazine special is our remarkable team of columnists. Our Agony Aunt, Heidi Gammon, continues to grow in popularity, offering advice with wit, warmth, and plain-spoken honesty. Dr Anna Kennedy OBE brings vital insight, advocacy, and compassion through her work in autism awareness and support. Our beauty expert Clare McSweeney adds glamour, empowerment, and the kind of practical advice that boosts confidence. And this year we welcomed Richard Andrews, who’s new “Money Matters” column is already proving invaluable to readers navigating finances during turbulent times.

Clare 2Shades columnist with Aston Avery she is on Gateway every month .

All of them are thriving on social media, and their readership continues to soar—a testament to the authenticity and relevance they bring.

What makes all of this even more remarkable is that the magazine still has no sponsors. I work entirely for free, as do many involved. And we do it because we believe in 2Shades, in its purpose, and in the community surrounding it. But as we look ahead to the future—and to the possibility of expanding globally—sponsors and advertisers will eventually be essential. If you’ve enjoyed the work we’ve done, if the magazine has informed, entertained, or supported you in any way, then please help us grow by spreading the word. Share the link, recommend us, tell people who we are and what we stand for. That simple act makes a world of difference.

And speaking of difference: there is something else I’d like to ask this Christmas.

If you feel moved to show appreciation for the magazine’s work this year, please consider donating to Anna Kennedy Online, a charity that means an incredible amount to me personally. Not only is Anna a dear friend, but I am honoured to have been a patron of her autism charity for nearly twelve years—something I remain immensely proud of. The work AKO does is life-changing for autistic children, adults, and families across the UK. If you would like to donate, the details are below; even the smallest contribution helps.

Dr Anna Kennedy OBE with me.

Looking ahead, my biggest hope is that 2026 will be the year 2Shadesbecomes a global success. A huge portion of our readership already comes from the United States and Australia, which shows that our message resonates far beyond the UK. We speak to universal experiences—identity, struggle, connection, joy, and truth. These things transcend borders.

And that brings me to my wish for 2026, a simple yet powerful one:
More empathy. More understanding. More respect.

We live in an increasingly polarised world, where disagreement is seen as a personal attack and differing opinions are met with hostility rather than curiosity. One of the wisest things I heard this year came from Peter Tatchell at the screening of “Legendary Children: All of Them Queer.” He said:

“By going into other places and organisations and being your authentic self, making a positive difference, people will start to change their views.”

That stayed with me, because it reminds us that real progress rarely comes from shouting or fighting—it comes from presence, compassion, and consistency.

Yet too often, respect is missing from the smallest everyday interactions. I’ll give you an example. I have not eaten red meat or pork for 49 years. It’s part of who I am. I don’t need to explain why; it doesn’t need to be debated. Yet more times than I can count, I’ve sat down to a meal only to be told, “Oh, just scrape it off,” as if my boundary were an inconvenience rather than something worthy of respect.

It’s such a small thing, but small things matter. Empathy shows itself in the details. Most people, of course, are thoughtful and considerate—but we all know others who refuse to see beyond their own beliefs. They hold strong opinions on everything yet become instantly outraged if you question theirs. They expect understanding but rarely offer it in return.

And then there are those who appear addicted to drama—who cannot be content unless they are creating conflict or turning an event into something about them. Rather than bringing joy, talent, or positive energy to a gathering, they bring chaos. It is, in my opinion, a kind of addiction in itself. A hunger for attention that stifles empathy and dims the light for everyone else. As such addiction is an illness and I have empathy there. However when an illness is contagious or has a knock on effect on your mental health you need to walk away in the end.

Imagine how different the world could be if empathy were something we practised as naturally as breathing. If instead of reacting, we paused. Instead of judging, we listened. Instead of assuming, we asked.
If 2026 could bring even a fraction more understanding into everyday life, what a transformation we would see.

So as we wrap presents, raise glasses, and welcome the new year, my message is this:
Celebrate with kindness. Speak with honesty. Live authentically. Respect differences—not just the ones that are easy, but the ones that challenge you. And above all, look for ways to make someone else’s world a little better.

To every reader, supporter, contributor, and friend of 2Shades: thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a beautiful Christmas, a hopeful New Year, and a 2026 filled with courage, connection, and compassion.

With love and gratitude,
Steven

PLEASE DONATE BELOW .

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=RKNE6GRMHJUP2

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Columns Culture Lifestyle People

Denise Welch is the ultimate hun, LGBTQ+ queen, and rightful heir to the 2025 Christmas Number One crown with Slayyy Bells.

If there is one woman capable of shaking up the Christmas charts, unseating the usual pop titans, and bringing pure chaotic joy to the holiday season, it’s Denise Welch. With Slayyy Bells, she hasn’t just released a festive single — she’s unleashed a cultural moment. A glittery, high-camp, tongue-in-cheek masterpiece that captures everything the British public secretly craves at Christmas: humour, heart, a bit of mischief, and a full-throttle, unapologetic “hun energy.”

Denise has long been adored for her honesty, her warmth, and her refusal to take herself too seriously. That’s why the LGBTQ+ community has embraced her with open arms. She doesn’t perform camp — she embodies it. Whether it’s fiery daytime TV realness, chaotic comic timing, or her glamorous, self-deprecating sparkle, Denise is the kind of icon who walks into a room and immediately becomes everyone’s mum, best friend, and backstage confidante. She is the definition of a British hun: fierce, funny, fabulous, and fearlessly herself.

Slayyy Bells captures that spirit perfectly. It’s a sugary cocktail of festive beats, wink-wink lyrics, and nightclub-ready chaos — the kind of song that would make even the Grinch put on a sequinned jumpsuit. In a chart landscape dominated by perfectly polished megastars like Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, or Ed Sheeran, Denise offers something the others can’t: pure personality. She’s not trying to be slick, she’s trying to be fun — and that’s exactly what people cling to at Christmas.

Let’s be honest: the UK loves an underdog, and Denise is the ultimate comeback queen. She’s lived a life, she’s told her story, and she has emerged with more charisma than half the industry put together. When she releases a Christmas single, it isn’t just music — it’s a movement. It’s the collective national desire for something joyful, camp, inclusive, and proudly silly.

The LGBTQ+ community in particular knows a gay icon when it sees one. Denise is outspoken, loyal, emotionally open, and effortlessly dramatic. She’s relatable yet glamorous; chaotic yet wise; messy yet magnificent. She’s the woman who will cry with you, dance with you, and drag you out to karaoke at 2 a.m. — the Patron Saint of Huns.

This is why Slayyy Bells deserves to beat the global juggernauts. Christmas Number One shouldn’t always go to the most streamed, the most marketed, or the most algorithmically optimised. Sometimes it should go to the artist who brings the most joy. The one who makes people laugh, sing, and feel part of something bigger.

Denise Welch is that artist. She’s the people’s diva, the hun-in-chief, the LGBTQ+ fairy godmother of festive chaos — and Slayyy Bells is the anthem worthy of her crown.

This Christmas, let’s make history. Let’s give the Number One to the woman who would celebrate it harder than anyone else: Queen Denise Welch.

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Columns Culture Lifestyle People Poetry Uncategorized

Dr Anna Kennedy OBE Inspires at the Hampton Hub Counselling and Coaching Group

2Shades Heidi Gammon and Dr Anna Kennedy OBE with Steven Smith at the Hampton Hub

Heidi Gammon presents Dr Anna Kennedy OBE.

The Hampton Hub was buzzing with energy on Friday 20th November as esteemed autism ambassador Dr Anna Kennedy OBE took to the stage as the special guest speaker for the Counselling and Coaching Group. The event was proudly hosted by Heidi Gammon, 2Shades Magazine columnist and Gateway Radio agony aunt, who introduced Dr Kennedy to an enthusiastic and engaged audience.

Dr Kennedy, one of the UK’s most recognised voices in autism advocacy, immediately captivated the room with her warmth, humour, and honesty. She shared her remarkable journey: from a determined mother fighting for the right support for her two autistic sons, Patrick and Angelo, to becoming a national campaigner, charity founder, and distinguished OBE recipient for her services to autism.

Her story began with what she described as “a battle fought with love and necessity.” With limited educational options available for her boys, she took matters into her own hands—eventually helping establish specialist provision and launching her highly influential charity, Anna Kennedy Online, which now supports thousands of autistic individuals and their families across the UK and beyond.

The audience listened intently as she spoke about the evolution of her work, including the hugely popular Autism Hero Awards, which celebrate outstanding individuals who make a positive difference within the autism community. She also discussed her long-running digital platform, Anna Kennedy Online, which provides education, advocacy, and outreach.

A highlight of the evening was her reflection on appearing on ITV’s Lorraine, where she was honoured as a finalist for Woman of the Year—a moment she described as both surreal and deeply meaningful.

The event also shone a spotlight on important collaborative projects. Dr Kennedy spoke about Born Anxious, the anti-bullying campaign that raises awareness of the struggles many autistic children and adults face. As part of the session, the group viewed a touching dance performance video by Freya Prince, whose emotional and expressive choreography moved the room.

Adding festive cheer, former Autism’s Got Talent performer Ty Williams delighted the audience via video with a heartfelt rendition of “Driving Home for Christmas,” receiving warm applause from attendees.

There was also a special appearance by Steven Smith, a former celebrity hairdresser turned author and presenter, who is one of the patrons of Anna Kennedy Online. He shared his personal story of becoming part of the charity’s growing family and spoke passionately about the power of creativity and community in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. He also highlighted the creation of Autism and Art, an inclusive exhibition held at the Firepit Gallery in London that celebrates neurodiverse artists and their unique perspectives.

The Hampton Hub Counselling and Coaching Group, led by Heidi Gammon and her dedicated team, provided a warm and supportive atmosphere, bringing together people from all walks of life who share a commitment to understanding, compassion, and positive action.

Attendees left energised and inspired, with many commenting on the emotional resonance and practical insight Dr Kennedy brought to the conversation. Her message was clear: with determination, community, and unwavering belief, real change is possible.

The event not only highlighted the vital work being done across the UK for autistic individuals, but also showcased the power of storytelling, advocacy, and human connection.

For more information on the organisations and initiatives mentioned, visit:

• Anna Kennedy Online: https://annakennedyonline.com
• Born Anxious: https://bornanxious.co.uk
• The Firepit Gallery: https://www.firepit.art
• Hampton Hub: https://www.hamptonhubclub.com
• Counselling For You (Heidi Gammon): https://www.counselling-foryou.co.uk/about-us

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Columns Culture Lifestyle People

Heidi is back, and she’s here to help you get through and enjoy the holiday period.

Heidi is back, and she’s here to help you get through and enjoy the holiday period.Hear her on Gateway Radio on the Aston Avery Show and on YouTube.Please write to her at 2Shades: spman@btinternet.com if you have a problem.Heidi can only answer so many, but she will try her best. Heidi is back, and she’s here to help you get through and enjoy the holiday period.spman@btinternet.com if you have a problem.Heidi can only answer so many, but she will try her best.

https://www.counselling-foryou.co.uk/about-us#:~:text=To%20accommodate%20the%20varied%20needs,face%2C%20zoom%20or%20telephone%20sessions.&text=Heidi%20Gammon%20is%20a%20qualified,and%20Psychodynamic%20theories%20and%20CBT.

Dear Heidi
Hope you are well. My son is coming with his girlfriend for Christmas. She is a lovely girl, but she’s not really my kind of person — though she makes my son happy. Lunch is going to be a problem: she is vegan and we are all meat eaters. Making it worse, she talks about animal cruelty while we’re eating. Now my son has decided he’s vegan too. I will make a nut roast and vegetables for them, but is it acceptable to tell them I don’t want to hear about animals and cruelty while we eat?
Diana, Uxbridge

Heidi replies:
You’re being considerate by preparing vegan options, and it’s perfectly reasonable to set boundaries at the table. Explain kindly that you respect their choices, but mealtimes need to stay pleasant for everyone. A gentle, “Let’s save the debate for later,” is enough. Mutual respect works both ways. Maybe try having a coffee with her before Christmas, go over the menu, and then explain your boundaries so it doesn’t become a big issue on the day.

Dear Heidi
My boyfriend and I like to party and occasionally take drugs. I feel it’s under control on my end — high days and low days, that kind of thing — but I am a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas. He wants to invite two friends over and seems more interested in getting drugs in for after lunch than the food or the day itself. What can I do? I want a white Christmas — not that kind of white one.
Mike, Bournemouth

Heidi replies:
You deserve a Christmas that feels safe and joyful. Tell your boyfriend clearly that you want a drug-free day and that you aren’t comfortable hosting a gathering that revolves around substances. If he can’t respect that boundary, it’s a sign something needs addressing in the relationship — and perhaps in your habits as a couple. A peaceful Christmas requires mutual respect. Any regular drug use is not only illegal but a sign of addiction; once it’s in your life, it has a habit of resurfacing.

Dear Heidi
Can you please help me? My mother is a total control freak and she runs Christmas like a military operation. This year I want to go to my friends’ in Cornwall. I am 19, at college, and have a part-time job. How do I break the news? I hinted at the idea and she brushed it off. How do I tell her?
Malcolm, Newcastle

Heidi replies:
You’re an adult now, and part of growing up is making your own plans. Be direct, calm and kind: “Mum, I love Christmas here, but this year I’m spending it with friends.” She may protest, but stick to your decision. Set the boundary with respect, not guilt, and give her time to adjust. The sooner you tell her, the better — and be aware she may not stop being controlling, so learning to stand firm now will help.

Dear Heidi
Please help. We are going to my fiancé’s for Christmas. His mum is nice, but his dad is awful — he constantly makes crude comments and flirts with me when no one is looking. What can I do? Do I tell my fiancé or just put up with it since we don’t go that often?
Tiffany, Leeds

Heidi replies:
You should not put up with inappropriate behaviour, no matter how infrequent the visits. Tell your fiancé privately and calmly what has been happening. He needs to know, and the two of you can decide together how to handle it — whether that’s him speaking to his father or setting clearer boundaries. You deserve to feel safe and respected.

Dear Heidi
I am going home for Christmas. This summer I came out at university. My parents are religious and it is going to be a shock to them. Should I go down sooner to tell them? I don’t want to ruin Christmas.
Paul, Cardiff

Heidi replies:
If you feel emotionally ready, telling them before Christmas may ease some of the pressure on the day itself. It gives them time to process without the intensity and expectations of the holiday. Choose a calm moment, be honest, and remember: their reaction is about their adjustment, not your worth. You deserve to be loved and accepted as you are.

https://www.counselling-foryou.co.uk/about-us#:~:text=To%20accommodate%20the%20varied%20needs,face%2C%20zoom%20or%20telephone%20sessions.&text=Heidi%20Gammon%20is%20a%20qualified,and%20Psychodynamic%20theories%20and%20CBT.

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Culture Lifestyle People Uncategorized

Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC: Launching Our First Grant-Funded Project – FIREPIT FEELS

We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news — Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC has received our very first grant as a Community Interest Company! Thanks to the Greenwich Healthier Communities Fund, we’re able to bring an inspiring new initiative to life: FIREPIT FEELS.

This milestone marks an exciting step forward in our mission to make creativity accessible, inclusive, and nurturing for everyone. With the support of this grant, we’re launching a pilot programme of free and pay-what-you-can workshopsdesigned to foster creative health and wellbeing within our local community.

About FIREPIT FEELS

FIREPIT FEELS is a culturally-rooted series of workshops taking place in Greenwich Peninsula, created to support and uplift individuals from Global Majority, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodiverse communities, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our aim is to offer a welcoming, affirming space where creativity, culture, and connection come together to enhance emotional and mental wellbeing.

We warmly invite you to take part in any — or all — of our upcoming sessions:

  • November 12th, 7–9pm – 🎨 Inhabiting Uncertainty on the Canvas — Painting Workshop
  • November 23rd, 1–3pm – 🧘‍♀️ Unfold: Movement & Meaning — Yoga & Journalling
  • December 14th, 1–3pm – 🧵 Chinese Knotting Jewellery & Mindfulness
  • January 8th, 7–9pm – ✏️ Our Art Circle — Drawing Workshop
  • January 22nd, 7–9pm – 📚 Queer Narrative — Collaging and Storytelling
  • January 31st, 1–3pm – 🌿 Creative Connections — Meditation & Sustainable Crafting

You can find more details and book your place for any of the sessions

Register on Eventbrite

Designed with Care and Accessibility in Mind

Every aspect of FIREPIT FEELS has been developed collaboratively, with guidance from an Accessibility Consultantand a Psychotherapist, ensuring that the programme is inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming, and trauma-informed.

Each session is relaxed and supportive. We’ll provide sensory aids for those who find them helpful, and a dedicated welfare support guide will be on hand to make sure everyone feels safe, comfortable, and welcome throughout.

About Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC

Located in the heart of Greenwich Peninsula, Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC is a community-led art hub that celebrates creativity in all its forms. Our mission is to make the arts accessible, inclusive, and sustainable by hosting co-created workshops, exhibitions, and events that reflect the diverse voices of our community.

Run by local artists, we believe in the power of art to connect people, spark dialogue, and support wellbeing. Whether you’re a seasoned creative or a complete beginner, Firepit is your space to explore, express, and belong.

To stay updated on our events, projects, and exhibitions, 

Together, let’s make Firepit Feels a space where creativity truly heals, connects, and inspires.

https://www.firepit.art

https://www.firepit.art/newsletter

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Columns Lifestyle People

Join 2Shades Magazine — An Exciting Opportunity to Shape a Bright, Inclusive Future

Are you passionate about creativity, positivity, and representation? Would you like to be part of an uplifting magazine that celebrates diversity and individuality? Then this could be the opportunity for you.

I’m Steven Smith, Editor of 2Shades Magazine — a vibrant, happy LGBTQ+ publication where everyone is welcome. 2Shades is about joy, self-expression, and living life in full colour. We share stories that inspire, entertain, and connect people from every shade of the spectrum.

At the moment, the magazine is run independently and with heart. It doesn’t yet generate profit, and I’m not taking a salary for my writing or editorial work. But what we do have is potential, readership, and passion — a growing audience who believe in what 2Shades stands for: positivity, equality, and creative freedom.

Now, with my current partner stepping down who we loved and can not thank enough , The incredible Adishia chengappa,is going into full time eduction . I’m looking for a new collaborator or investor to join me on this journey.

🌈 Why Join 2Shades?

  • Be part of something meaningful. 2Shades isn’t just a magazine — it’s a community celebrating LGBTQ+ life, art, culture, and individuality.
  • Low entry, high potential. For £1,000, you can buy into the magazine and become my creative and business partner.
  • Help shape the next chapter. From editorial direction and digital strategy to sponsorship, advertising, and partnerships — your ideas will directly influence how we grow.
  • Your voice matters. Whether you’re a writer, marketer, designer, PR professional, or creative entrepreneur, this is a rare chance to make a real impact.
  • Build towards profit together. As the magazine grows through advertising, sponsorships, collaborations, and events, so does your stake and reward.

🌟 What I’m Looking For

  • Someone who believes in the message of inclusion and positivity — LGBTQ+ and allies alike.
  • Someone excited by independent media and the creative world.
  • A person who’s proactive, imaginative, and ready to build something with heart.
  • Ideally someone who can bring either creative skills, marketing ideas, or business insight — but most importantly, enthusiasm.

💬 Next Steps

If this sounds like you, let’s talk. I’ll share more about our readership, digital presence, plans for the year ahead, and how we can shape this partnership together.

Your £1,000 investment secures you a share in 2Shades, a say in editorial direction, and the chance to be part of something growing, inclusive, and joyfully unique.

Let’s make 2Shades not just a magazine — but a movement that celebrates difference and spreads happiness.

With warmth,
Steven Smith
Editor, 2Shades Magazine
🌐 2shadesmagazine.com

e-mail spman@btinternet.com

07969106222

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Columns Lifestyle People

🎄 Mama Xmas: The Joyful, Wild World of Piluca Artist

https://www.pilucaworld.com/public

“I absolutely love Christmas,” says artist and designer Piluca Camino Alcón, her voice bright with the kind of infectious joy that instantly fills the room. “They used to call me Mama Xmas because I go all out. I host a big dinner on the 24th—that’s when we celebrate in Spain—and my doors are open to anyone who wants to join, especially those who might not have someone to spend it with.” For Piluca, the season is more than decorations or gifts. “I cook like a woman possessed,” she laughs. “Meats, seafood, you name it, it’s a proper bacanal! For me, Christmas is about people, laughter, music, and those real beautiful moments that make life worth living. My dinners are never those forced family affairs where everyone pretends to like each other. Mine are full of joy, dancing and love. It’s a celebration of life itself.”

This joyous, unfiltered energy seems to define everything about her. When asked if she’s been naughty or nice this year, Piluca laughs so hard she nearly spills her coffee. “This year I’ve been both gloriously naughty and impressively nice. I shattered expectations, ignored my own rulebook, and gave full permission to my wild inner freedom. I devoured all the cookies, then hit the gym like a warrior. Balance, darling—that’s the real art!” That combination of chaos and control, wildness and discipline, runs through both her personality and her work. Born in Madrid, she first came to London on holiday with her mother-in-law and fell in love with Brixton.

“The moment I stepped into Brixton in 1996, I fell in love. The energy, the cultural and ethnic mix, the unapologetic vibrancy—it was electric. There was this raw, unfiltered love for music and the arts, a non-judgmental openness in its people, and a market bursting with flavours, colours and life. It felt like home instantly.” She has stayed ever since, building a life and career rooted in that creative spirit. “I didn’t choose to become an artist,” she says simply. “I was born one. I have created for as long as I can remember. Being an artist is not a choice but a necessity. My ultimate aim is to connect, elicit a response and inspire through my practice.”

She has certainly done that. A published illustrator, sculptor, fashion designer and community organiser, Piluca was a finalist in the arts category for the WinTrade International Awards in 2018. During lockdown she threw herself into animation projects while developing her own fashion line. “Art is how I breathe,” she says. “My life and my creativity are so deeply intertwined that separating them would be impossible. Art is my voice, my refuge, and my power.” She speaks about her upbringing with disarming honesty. “My past shaped every part of me, and art became both my shield and my weapon. It has always been my therapy, my way of making sense of the world.” When she laughs, it’s the laughter of someone who has survived, rebuilt, and decided to celebrate it all anyway. Even under the mistletoe, she admits, there are no plans or rules. “Mistletoe’s kissing? Depends who’s standing under it first,” she grins. “I don’t plan these things. I improvise.”

That sense of improvisation seems to fuel her approach to both art and life. Her inspirations span from Spanish masters like Picasso, Dalí and Velázquez to contemporary icons such as Sarah Lucas, Judy Chicago and Yayoi Kusama. She’s also deeply influenced by the raw, expressive energy of street art. “It’s rebellious, emotional, connected to the real world. That’s what I love.” Yet, despite her international sensibility, she remains deeply rooted in Brixton. “London suits me fine,” she says. “I just dream of a bigger studio one day—warehouse big!”

“My dream for the year ahead is to keep evolving—becoming stronger, fitter, sharper. To keep inspiring my kids, pushing myself, and making the most of every moment.”

Family means everything to her. She has two sons, Carlos and Malachi, and both have inherited her creative fire. “Carlos reached Grade 8 on piano, and Malachi’s preparing for his Grade 5. They’re different but equally artistic. Carlos is grounded and business-minded, while Malachi is a free spirit, completely immersed in creativity, untouched by brands or status. At six, he said he wanted to be an artist, just like I did at his age.” Her eyes soften when she speaks about them. “What I teach them both is this: creativity is what sets us apart from the animal kingdom. It’s the ability to turn imagination into something tangible—to create what didn’t exist before. Life itself is art, and art gives life its meaning.”

Earlier this year, she travelled to Chicago to collaborate with acclaimed photographer Sandro Miller on his project I Am Beautiful, exploring inner beauty and self-love. “It was surreal,” she says. “Meeting him, his wife, his team—it felt like meeting someone from my tribe, someone who has used art as both shield and weapon. It was cathartic. I grew. I can’t wait to go back.” When asked what she wants most for 2026, her answer is immediate. “To keep being granted the strength, madness and magic to make things happen.”

As the conversation turns back to Christmas, Piluca’s eyes sparkle. “Christmas is the perfect metaphor for life,” she says. “It’s messy, loud, emotional—and if you open your heart to it, it’s beautiful. I don’t care about presents; I care about presence.” You can picture her back in Brixton, fairy lights strung from every corner, music playing, food piled high, her friends and family laughing and dancing around her. “That’s Christmas to me,” she says, smiling. “A celebration of life itself.”

https://www.pilucaworld.com/public

Categories
Columns Culture Lifestyle People

Frieze London 2025 — Substance Over Spectacle

https://www.frieze.com/fairs/frieze-london Chloe Chiasson Down In Saba

Frieze

Frieze London 2025.PHOTO: LINDA NYLIND. COURTESY OF FRIEZE

By Steven Smith

“This was Frieze in its most mature form — calm, confident, and beautifully human.”

This October, Regent’s Park once again became the beating heart of contemporary culture, as London’s premier art fair returned with a noticeably more reflective air. Gone were the flashing lights and social-media gimmicks that once dominated the scene — in their place, a quiet confidence and an emphasis on meaning over market value. Frieze London 2025 proved that the true allure of art lies not in the roar of spectacle, but in surprise, sincerity, and the occasional whisper that lingers long after the tents come down.

A Quieter Kind of Dazzle

Each autumn, the white tents of Frieze rise like a sleek temporary city, drawing curators, collectors, and celebrities who glide between installations and champagne bars. But this year, something had shifted. The fair felt calmer — less about performance, more about purpose.

The tone was set from the outset. New entrance pavilions — elegant aluminium structures created by A Studio Between using 75 per cent recycled metal — signalled sustainability rather than status. It was a small yet telling gesture: Frieze has grown up.

Inside, the fair’s redesigned layout provided space to breathe. Instead of the crowding and visual overload of previous years, this edition privileged air, light, and contemplation. And what stood out most was originality. You weren’t left thinking “Hirst homage” or “Bacon knock-off” — though artistic lineage was there — the work felt boldly its own.

“It’s still dazzling, but with a steadier gaze.”

A Fair with Focus

Otobong Nkanga, Cadence-While We Wait and Watch, (2025).PHOTO: © OTOBONG NKANGA, COURTESY LISSON GALLERY

Frieze remains vast — more than 280 galleries across Frieze London and Frieze Masters — yet this year’s coherence was striking. Focus, the section dedicated to younger galleries, became its emotional anchor. Thirty-plus exhibitors explored climate, identity, displacement, and belonging with genuine urgency rather than opportunistic messaging.

One standout installation — a delicate shelter of reclaimed textiles and timber — spoke quietly yet powerfully of “home”. No gimmicks. Just humanity.

Even the major galleries opted for subtlety. Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, and White Cube resisted spectacle in favour of introspection: small, thoughtful works that drew viewers in rather than overwhelming them.

“Frieze 2025 is a fair about stories, not stunts.”

The Market Mood

Frieze is both cultural pilgrimage and high-stakes shop floor — and the cooling market was impossible to ignore. Economic uncertainty has made collectors judicious, especially in Britain. Yet the fair thrived precisely because it did not mask reality.

Dealers confessed that sales were careful but consistent. Relationships mattered more than rapid-fire transactions. There was less frenzy, more trust — and with it, a sense of optimism that art still carries weight when times feel lean.

Art with Intention

What defined Frieze this year wasn’t a single blockbuster piece — but a collective tone of intentionality. Works spoke across booths about survival, memory, fragility, and the search for place.

Even architecture joined the conversation. Those aluminium pavilions — modest in shine yet rich in idea — mirrored the fair’s shift: modernism stepping into mindfulness.

Once known for glamour and provocation, Frieze has found its inner voice. No longer chasing viral moments, it invited something rarer: genuine attention.

“If previous years shouted, this one spoke — and everyone listened.”

Naudline Pierre, Bathers, (2025). PHOTO: COURTESY OF NAUDLINE PIERRE AND JAMES COHAN

Moments of Stillness

Frieze 2025 balanced buzz with calm. The chatter of negotiations coexisted with long, quiet looks. Visitors paused not because works were famous — but because they were interesting.

Climate anxiety, migration and belonging were recurring ideas, but handled with nuance rather than sloganising. There was vulnerability — a powerful antidote in a world polished to a shine.

Where It Wobbles

A fair this size still overwhelms. After several hours, even the sharpest eye risks softening into what insiders call “booth blur”. And while sustainability was championed, the contradiction of air-freighted masterpieces inside temporary architecture remains unresolved.

Yet for Frieze, these were growing pains — not failings.

“After three hours, the brain begins to flatten everything into booth blur — but somehow, this year, the art fought back.”

London’s Moment

Amid market turbulence, Frieze reaffirmed London’s role as the art world’s soulful heart. Where Basel can feel clinical and New York transactional, London offers intellect tempered with humour — grit paired with grace.

A temporary city in a timeless park: that is its poetry.

https://www.frieze.com/fairs/frieze-london

In the End

Frieze London 2025 was the grown-up edition — less showmanship, more sincerity. It favoured ideas over Instagram, meaning over money. It reminded us that great art doesn’t always demand attention. Sometimes it waits. Sometimes it whispers. And sometimes, if you pause long enough, it tells you exactly what you needed to hear.

“This was Frieze in its most mature form — calm, confident, and beautifully human.”

https://www.frieze.com/fairs/frieze-london