Creative Boom

Brian Luong takes muted colours and natural themes to create mysterious subjects from another world

2013-05-18T08:58:00+01:00

California based illustrator Brian Luong favours natural and organic subject matters, often building on what nature has to offer in order to create other worldly and mysterious subjects for his work. Using a muted pallet, meticulous hatching, and broad fills of colour, Brian creates work that has been honed and refined to best suit the silkscreen printing process. So beautiful are his artworks, you can really dive deep into the swirls, brushstrokes and tones and be taken away to another place. Take a look at more of his illustrations over at artofbrianluong.com.

Angela Rizza draws classic storybook illustrations

2013-05-18T08:48:00+01:00

Angela Rizza is a freelance illustrator currently living and working in New York. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2011 with a BFA in Illustration. Since then she has been featured in a number of magazines and shows throughout the globe. Her work is a combination of traditional and digital media which is reminiscent of a classical storybook illustration. Besides artwork, Angela enjoys travelling, birding and photography. She is open to comments, commissions, or questions and is currently available for illustration jobs of any kind and is looking for an art rep. Personally, I think she'll be snapped up.

How do you get your foot in the door with creative agencies?

2013-05-17T15:49:00+01:00

You know the drill. You've just graduated and you're keen to land that first job. Or you're already working full-time but want to move up the career ladder. Naturally, you'll want to approach as many creative agencies as possible to enquire about job opportunities. But what often happens is that you'll spend ages personalising an email that never even gets a reply. You're left scratching your head and wondering what you did wrong.

Being an agency owner myself, I get between five-six emails every day from people pitching themselves and asking if there are any vacancies. Speak to any other agency and they'll get the same. What happens to these emails? I admit, I don't usually have time to reply so I add them all to an email folder entitled 'CVs' so I can look at them later - should an opportunity arise. Or I sometimes send a generic message about no job opportunities being currently available and how I'll keep their details on file for future reference.

I'm not a bad person. I appreciate that we all have to start somewhere and I love supporting creatives - I do that through Creative Boom as much as I can. But I've only got eight hours in a working day and probably 15 hours' worth of work. Replying to emails can be time-consuming and I just can't afford to spend time doing so. Especially if there are no vacancies available. And other agency owners probably suffer from the same problem and find it challenging responding to everything that lands in their inbox. We don't mean to be rude. It's just we're all so busy and juggling so many things every day, it's impossible to reply to everyone. I admit, this goes against the friendly and encouraging nature of the creative industries.

So with this in mind, I received an email from a friendly creative this week, asking if I had any tips on how to overcome this problem.

He said: "I currently work full time but am looking to progress and have contacted a long list of agencies with job enquiries. I have put in the time and effort of personalising each email and am finding that a majority of the time there is no recognition of the email being received or appreciation of someone showing interest in the agency.

"I find this quite disheartening, and speaking to other creatives I find that it is quite a widespread problem. I appreciate that this is not only happening within the creative industry, but as an industry which is always promoted as friendly, open and always trying to encourage new talent, it doesn't give of the best impression or a lot of hope to new graduates, or people like myself who are trying to better themselves, of the industry.

"It would be interesting to see what other students/graduates/junior creatives think on this matter, as well as the views from agencies."

As this seems to be a common problem, I thought it would be good to ask other agency owners for their own tips and advice on how people can get their foot in the door when approaching agencies for job opportunities. It would also be good to hear how other agencies deal with these enquiries and if they have any systems in place that help.

What do I personally think? I do wonder - as emails are a very convenient way of communicating - are they perceived as something that doesn't warrant or deserve our attention? My point is - if a creative was to approach an agency by doing something unusual... would that help? Something that really got a reaction?

The unusual approach has worked with my own agency. The chap who designed my Boomerang logo (a boomerang that also looks like a little bird) didn't send me an email. He posted a pop-up banner with his CV cleverly printed on it. This resulted in me hiring him for several projects, and gained him some valuable experience plus a reference - which helped to land his first job. He stood out. He did something whacky. He gave me no choice but to meet him and see his portfolio.

But that's just my personal opinion. I thought this would be a good one to ask other agency owners. To provide their own tips on how to get noticed, how to get in front of them and be considered as a serious candidate? Can you help my community? I'd love you to comment below and share your own pearls of wisdom on how to get that foot in the door.

Equally, if you're a creative and you've been approaching agencies and getting no joy - comment below and share your thoughts!

Readers' Studios: De Anderen, Glasgow

2013-05-17T11:38:00+01:00

Image Credit: Tom Manley Photography

Readers' Studios is a regular peek into people's workspaces and studios. It's a chance to see how other creatives work. From inspiring garden sheds and cosy home offices to stunning huge warehouses and converted chapels, I love taking a look at them all.

Today, I'm taking a peek at De Anderen, a creative space chosen to reside nestled into an empty arch beneath a disused railway line in Glasgow's creative Merchant City area. Designed by architect and artist Lee Ivett aka BAXENDALE, the space has been carefully planned and constructed as if an installation within the space, built out of reclaimed wood and timber palettes. It offers startup space to creatives wanting to make the transition from working from home to a more permanent solution, sharing the space with like-minded people...

In Lee Ivett aka BAXENDALE's own words

"De Anderen is a creative space conceived by myself, Tom Scholefield, and Joanna Nethery. The space has been created out of reclaimed timber that was donated by a fencing contractor, second hand timber pallets and packaging crates. I utilised these materials to construct a dynamic mezzanine space that sits as a piece of sculpture within the context of the existing railway arch incorporating a rather dangerous looking spiral stair made from the old timber pallets.

"At the ground floor level the space has been sub-divided through the design and application of a series of bespoke movable screens. These screens have been utilised to define specific workspaces for individual designers. We also have a meeting/presentation area, small model making space and a kitchen.

"It has been a dream come true to design and build my own space and share it with a talented group of people. It is a rare achievement to be able to go into work every day knowing that you will be inspired by your environment and your colleagues."

Find out more about BAXENDALE

Website: www.baxendale-dco.com | Email: lee@baxendale-dco.com

Think my readers might dig your creative space? Drop me a line with a minimum of six high resolution photos and blurb about why your studio rocks your creative world at studios@creativeboom.co.uk.

Image Credit: Tom Manley Photography

Favourite Things: Neil Scott, 2022NQ

2013-05-17T11:20:00+01:00

Favourite Things is a regular exploration of creative people's top five favourite things. It could be a book, a piece of artwork, a much-loved city, an ornament or a favourite hobby. If you'd like to share your Favourite Things, email things@creativeboom.co.uk. In the meantime, here's the latest Favourite Things with Neil Scott, one of the directors at 2022NQ in Manchester who also happens to be a DJ and promoter...

1. 2022NQ

I’m one of the directors at 2022NQ it has been the love of my life for over 18 months, including the all the ups and downs that go hand in hand with love! For those that don’t know it’s basically an events space, which has regular exhibitions, fashion events, club nights, vintage fairs and much more. We’ve just launched our print shop selling and showcasing artists and exhibitions past and present.

2. Madmen

I know I’m late on this but my girlfriend and I have been obsessed with it while we trawled through five series in the last month. We’ve just about caught up to the latest. It’s great to see the cool suits and how it reflects the fashions and attitudes of the time. Despite all the low down dirty things Don gets up to you can’t help but still root for him. Roger Sterling is the dude here though. He has all the best lines and is one cool bastard.

3. Music

Being promoter and DJ at El Diablo’s Social Club (which will be soon celebrating 10 years) and working at Piccadilly Records on and off for about six years, music continues to be a massive part of my life. At the moment I’ve been listening to a band called Gramme. I was gutted to have missed their recent gigs at The Soup Kitchen and Sounds From The Other City.

4. Croatia

This year will be my fifth time in a row at the wonderful Garden Festival in Croatia. Now in the lovely seaside town of Tisno. Croatia is a beautiful, so far unspoilt place, which I consider a special yearly clubbing retreat. It’s all about the music, the people, the sunshine, the grilled squid and - best of all - the boat parties.

5. The Curry Bible – Madhur Jaffrey

I love curry and I love cooking. This book truly is a bible of curry. It has helped me impress many a friend and saves me a bomb in takeaways. My favorite recipes are Chicken Saag or Duck Vindaloo.

Foreal shows us a surreal twist on planetary anatomy

2013-05-17T08:48:00+01:00

German design studio Foreal have created this series of free illustrations showing a surrealistic twist on the physical anatomy of our solar system planets. Founders Benjamin Simon and Dirk Schuster wanted to disclose secrets of the inside of our planets, revealing a strange and visionary world. It certainly caught my attention this morning. You almost get the sense that they're cutting into some sort of alien type fruit instead of using their imaginations and showing us what might happen if we sliced through an entire planet. Interesting project from a studio that describes itself as 'young' and has quite possibly the best 'About' web page I've ever seen. I think my next corporate photo is going to involve sunglasses and kicking back on a sofa. Check out more of their work at www.weareforeal.com.

Roundup: 16 May 2013

2013-05-16T16:50:00+01:00

Roundup takes place every Thursday and includes my top picks and recommendations for creative things to do each weekend (and the following week) at different locations across the UK. Here's what's happening this weekend...

Music Tech Fest, London

Stromatolite, supported by Ravensbourne’s DMIC, will once more be pulling the entire music technology ecosystem under one roof with the return of Music Tech Fest from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 May 2013 at Ravensbourne, Greenwich Peninsula. This year’s highlights include the launch of the Warp Incubator, an exclusive interview by WIRED with Tom Jenkinson AKA Squarepusher and live music sets from Tristan Shone, Thickear, Fakebit Polytechnic, XPRESS2, Jason Singh and more. An exciting 3D Music Hack Camp will create music with just about anything that can be turned into an instrument, a special screening of Jamie Cullum on the ROLI Labs Seaboard in a special film will push the boundaries of music, and product innovators and legendary labels will debate the future of Music Tech. An event not to be missed!

Where?: Ravensbourne, Greenwich Peninsula, London
When?: Friday 17 May - Sunday 19 May 2013
Cost?: Free
More info: www.musictechfest.org

Expression of You, The Divine Feminine, Leeds

Expression of You, The Divine Feminine is a living art exhibition, a celebration of the act of sharing. Featuring the stories and journeys of 150 women from age 9 to 79, Ashley Karrell is opening his project up to the public here for the first time. Over the next 30 years he aims to continue this journey, on a quest to find, explore and share the stories of 10,000 women and 5,000 men from all walks of life.

Where?: Leeds Gallery, Munro House, York Street, Leeds, LS9 8AG
When?: Until 16 June 2013
Cost?: Free
More info: Leedsgallery.com

Estuary, Museum of London Docklands, London

Image Credit: Southend Pier 2011 C Simon Roberts courtesy Flowers Gallery

The outer limits of the River Thames is explored in Estuary, a new art exhibition opening at the Museum of London Docklands on Friday 17 May 2013, as part of the museum’s 10th anniversary. In the largest contemporary art exhibition to be held in the grade-one listed Georgian warehouse, next to Canary Wharf, Estuary will contain the work of twelve London-based artists, each of whom have been inspired by the Thames Estuary. The free exhibition brings together new and existing pieces of photography, painting, printmaking and film from the last thirty years. Estuary is supported by public funding from Arts Council England.

Where?: Museum of London Docklands, Canary Wharf, London
When?: Friday 17 May - Sunday 27 October 2013
Cost?: Free
More info: www.museumoflondon.org

Moving Pictures: Animating Murillo, London

Dulwich Picture Gallery's successful Good Times: Art for Older People programme have teamed up with professional animators from Salmagundi Films, a socially-engaged film production company, to create stop-frame animation films with members of Jewish Care's Stepney Jewish Day Centre.

Yesterday the finished animations were shown at Stepney Jewish Day Centre to project participants, Jewish Care staff and members, Dulwich Picture Gallery staff and other special guests. Participants used works from the current 'Murillo & Justino de Neve: The Art of Friendship' exhibition as a starting point to write stories, create moving objects to photograph and then used digital software to animate stills. The project provided older people of all creative abilities the chance to participate and learn digital animation technologies, using Murillo's characters as a vehicle for their own stories and anecdotes, transporting the characters from 16th-century Seville to London's East End in the 1940s.

The animations will be screened on a continuous loop in the Gallery's mausoleum throughout the 18 and 19 May 2013 to coincide with the final weekend of the Murillo exhibition before being available to view on the Gallery's YouTube channel.

Where?: Dulwich Picture Gallery, Gallery Road, London, SE21 7AD
When?: Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 May 2013
Cost?: Free
More info: www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Noisestock, Manchester

Sam Duckworth, headlining at Noisestock in Manchester

A unique gig at the People's History Museum in Manchester featuring headliner Sam Duckworth (Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly) along with Zimbo (One Mile Away), Envy (Unity Radio), Josiah Mortimer, Mushana and Stripez. All taking place at Noisestock - a 'sit-in' type festival feel evening of leading and emerging music artists, in the intimate setting of the Museum's historical Engine Hall, surrounded by its current Art of Protest exhibition. Not to be missed!

Where?: People's History Museum, Manchester, M3 3ER
When?: Saturday 18 May 2013
Cost?: Free to one and all, but turn up early as capacity is limited
More info: Noisefestival.com

London Photo Festival, London

The London Photo Festival has been set up to showcase up and coming talent and to build a photographers' community to share skills and information. And this weekend sees the event happening at The Crypt in Borough High Street, London. Pop along to see some local talent and discover new photographers. Entry is completely free!

Where?: The Crypt, Borough High St, London, SE1 1JA (Opposite Borough Station)
When?: Thursday 16 May - Sunday 18 May 2013
Cost?: Free admission
More info: www.londonphotofestival.org

The VICE Illustration Show, Shoreditch, London

Nick Gazin's Comic Book Witch hunt

Gathering together the most visceral and ‘challenging’ work on offer for the very first time, ‘The VICE Illustration Show’ is an essential guide to popular zine VICE’s unique visual history in print and online, and a preview of what’s coming next from this collection of highly unusual minds. Classic work from each artist has been unearthed from the archives and gives a unchartered insight into a pre-digitised process where beautiful, messy line drawings are king. This collection of original and unseen work will sit alongside new pieces created exclusively for the show, designed to give an insight into the modern illustrator at work.

Where?: Pure Evil Gallery, 108 Leonard Street, Shoreditch, London, EC2A 4XS
When?: Friday 17 May - Sunday 2 June 2013
Cost?: Free admission
More info: www.vice.com

Creative Cities: Bristol

2013-05-16T13:00:00+01:00

Creative Cities is a regular feature where I focus on local creative scenes throughout the UK, giving a general overview of what's happening in each city and an insight into its creative industries and the people who work there. Next up, I'm looking at Bristol…

Clifton suspension bridge and Balloon Fiesta

So what's Bristol all about?

Oh how I love Bristol, or Brizzle, as the locals would say! It's one of those wonderful UK cities that has pretty much everything going for it. Great weather (one of the warmest cities in the UK), friendly people, world-class culture, stunning architecture and it's bursting with creativity. It is in fact the largest centre of culture, employment and education in South West England with a population of nearly half a million. And on speaking to Bristol creatives, it's absolutely clear that this city is one of the happiest places to live, work and play.

Bristol Cathedral, seen from College Square

Bristol Cathedral

Built around the beautiful River Avon and with a short coastline on the Severn Estuary which flows into the Bristol Channel, the city's economy largely depends on creative media, electronics and aerospace industries. There's also a huge digital industry here - gaming, web, mobile - along with a wealth of creative freelancers, particularly designers and illustrators.

Canal in Bristol with its waterside properties

The colorful buildings in the Hotwells area of Bristol. Image Credit: antb / Shutterstock.com

Bow of the SS Great Britain in Bristol harbour

The makers of Wallace & Gromit - Aardman are based in Bristol. The city is also home to the UK's largest permanent street art project, known as See No Evil. And famous street artist Banksy has many artworks dotted around the city.

Artworks on buildings in Bristol, most created for See No Evil. Image Credit: pjhpix / Shutterstock.com.

Police sniper by Banksy in Upper Maudlin Street in Bristol. Image Credit: pjhpix / Shutterstock.com

Film and music is big in Bristol. Since the late '70s, it has been home to bands from punk, funk, dub and political consciousness, with the most notable being Glaxo Babies, The Pop Group and trip hop artists (also known as 'Bristol Sound') such as Tricky, Portishead and Massive Attack. Amen. It's also a stronghold for drum and bass (Manchester! I may have to leave you!) with Roni Size, DJ Krust and More Rockers all coming from Brizzle.

The 41st annual Harbour Festival at Bristol. Image Credit: pjhpix / Shutterstock.com

Bristol is so wonderful there are 34 other populated places on Earth named 'Bristol', most of which are in America but also in Peru, Canada, Jamaica, Barbados and Costa Rica - all presumably commemorating the original.

And don't even get me started on the huge number of theatre and live music venues, listed buildings, festivals, art galleries and pop-up shops and events (check out Made in Bristol)! You can't move there are so many of them. It even has its own creative quarter at Stokes Croft. In fact, Bristol is so creative and interesting, I'm not sure this article will be able to cover everything. But, as always, I'll do my very best! Bristol, it's over to you…

What Bristol creatives say

"I've only been in Bristol for three years now, but it already feels like home. It's a mini happy London in my opinion! There are so many different areas to the city and heaps of places where creative people can find inspiration. There are the little cafes and pubs in Stokes Croft with artwork covering the walls, new creative pop-up shops every month, beautiful parks (with deer, amazing views, and hot air balloons covering the sky), amazing graffiti (with Nelson Street becoming a little hotspot for tourists now), great canals gleaming in the sunshine and festivals popping up all the time! What's really nice about Bristol is that people seem to want to create - it's not all about the money which often kills the beauty of art. From the teams of creatives making free zines to the bloke that powers his boombox by riding his bike around, it seems like everyone is genuinely happy. There are lots of creative companies in Bristol and it seems like more and more people are being tempted by Bristol's happy lifestyle."
Katy Davis, illustrator and animator at Gobblynne

"I'm born and bred in Bristol and I love this city. It's hugely creative and that's evident from the amount of creative people and firms who come and stay here long-term. Bristol has fantastic places like the Arnolfini and the Watershed showing great art, music, film and other events and exhibitions, you can always find something to do. We also have a great city museum as well as the Royal West of England Academy, which is Bristol's first art gallery. Events such as Bristol Balloon Fiesta, Brisfest, Harbour Festival make it a fantastic place to come visit and these events really emphasise the talent within the city. From July to September this year, Bristol is going to be invaded by 80 massive Gromit sculptures for the Gromit Unleashed exhibition, which are individually designed and created by invited artists. At the end the exhibition, they will all be auctioned off and money raised will go to Wallace and Gromit's Grand Appeal. I walk round this city every day and I always feel inspired. There is a buzz around Bristol for creatives that makes you feel like you can achieve anything here, and everyone is keen to help, collaborate and show off the talent we have."
Tom Stutt, founder of Antic Creative

"Bristol has a buzz that I haven't found in any other UK city. There's a great community of creative businesses and we all pull together to help each other out, and pass on opportunities. New ideas are supported and helped to grow in Bristol - people will do everything to ensure you achieve your goals. Plus everyone knows everyone, which makes meetups great fun!"
Claire Snook, Wired Media

"Bristol is a city that you can never be bored of - it's a creative hub that on every corner of the city there is something different going on. You can go to one of the many local venues and check out one of the local bands, you could go on a boat trip around the harbour front or go and discover one of the many bars, restaurants or cafes. Bristol has become home to me over the years; the reason I love it is the fact you never feel out of place. Even though it is a city, you can be walking down the street and bump into someone you know. When the sun is shining you can sit and enjoy it with friends in Castle Park or Victoria Park, or sit out at a cafe and pub. Even when you live in Bristol, there are always new things to discover; it really is the city where you can carry on discovering and making new friends along the way."
Jodie Humphries, founder of Bristol-based music zine Live Music Scene

Where to study in Bristol

Looking to go to university or further your studies? Bristol is a fantastic place to study. And I mean fantastic. It's a relatively small, compact city with plenty to keep any happy student entertained. And there are nearly 50,000 students making up part of the city population each and every year. Home to two major institutions - the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England, both of which offer a wealth of creative courses.

The neo-classical towers of the Cathedral and University dominate the skyline

The Faculty of Arts at University of Bristol has courses in drama, art history and music. While the West of England has a department in Arts, Creative Industries and Education, offering art and design; english, writing and drama and screen, media and journalism. Plus it has the Bristol School of Animation and the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

Bristol also has two further educational facilities, including City of Bristol College and South Gloucestershire and Stroud College. There's also three theological colleges.

Bristol's startup scene

They don't call Bristol Silicon Avon for nothing. The startup scene is thriving here. There couldn't be a better place to get your idea off the ground, as Bristol has a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem that brings together startups, essential support, partners, future clients and, of course, investors. Bristol is notably where MyBuilder, Glasses Direct and DataSift began.

The Watershed, Bristol

So where do you go for startup support and a local community? The Watershed is a digital media and arts complex in the heart of the city that has been mixing up creativity and technology for more than 20 years. And the place for startups is at its iShed venture, which aims to produce talent, ideas and knowledge sharing.

It includes the Pervasive Media Studio where creative tech collaborations happen. It's a kind of sandbox offering, designed to help get ideas off the ground and has heavy backing from Bristol's two universities, University of Bristol and UWE. There's also Media Sandbox and Theatre Sandbox - both of which aim to develop ideas using new technologies.

One of the many events at South West Founders

To network and get out and about with other startups, check out Dorkbot and BathCamp - both offering a good mix of tech events for geeks. While South West Founders is a monthly meetup for tech startup founders. The next event is happening in June 2013.

And if you're looking for extra support, you must visit SETsquared. It accelerates early-stage, high-tech, high growth startups but it also offers free meeting rooms, workshops, business mentoring, investment readiness training and much more. It's a not-for-profit that's based at the University of Bristol but is open to outside businesses.

Where to network in Bristol

For all you wonderful illustrators, Bristol is one of the best places to be! Have a gander at the Drawn In Bristol website. It supports and profiles local illustrators online but also curates exhibitions, pop-up shops and events. For animators and creatives, get yourselves down to Westivus or check out Animation Nights.

Drawn In Bristol, one of many recent exhibitions

Love photography? Have a look at Bristol Photography Group - a regular meetup for budding photographers all across Bristol. Bristol Web Folk is an informal gathering of web developers, designers and anyone else interested in what makes the web tick. To get social and make the most of Bristol's cultural scene, join the friendly Bristol Movie & Theatre Fans group.

If you're looking online, then you should sign up to Bristol Media - it's one of the biggest creative networks in the UK with over 1,700 members and supported by the local city council. And Bristol Creatives, along the same lines.

Where to work in Bristol

With such a buzzing creative scene, Bristol quite naturally has its fair share of co-working spaces and communities. Mild Bunch is a co-working studio for designers and developers on the border between Stokes Croft (Bristol's art quarter) and Montpelier.

The Mild Bunch HQ. Image Credit: Jon Tangerine

Bridewell Space is another co-working hub for creatives and entrepreneurs, which has studio, desk, band, art and even gym space - all under one roof! Wilder Studios offers a little hot-desking at very affordable prices over at Stokes Croft. It also has virtual office services, making it a good launch pad for people starting out.

There's the Tobacco Factory in Southville, a multi use space for performing arts and creatives with workspace, desk space, meeting rooms, live/work and cafe bar area. It's aiming to be at the centre of Bristol's cultural revolution.

Bridewell Space

The popular Tobacco Factory

Spike Design is the largest design incubator in the South West, offering creatives an open-plan studio/office space, along with business support. The Create Centre is a vibrant place which hosts regular events and exhibitions and also features flexible office space.

77 Stokes Croft lies at the centre of Bristol's most creatively driven quarter and offers space, business support and networking within its vibrant community. Then there's Brave - at The Coach House where offices and shared workspaces are available to rent. Brave also offers business support and lots of helpful facilities, such as meeting room, wireless internet and postal service. Hamilton House is another creative hub in Stokes Croft.

The wonderful home of 77stokescroft. Image Credit: Matthew Lord

Last but not least, check out Urban Design Studios - self-contained workspaces in Stokes Croft for creative and tech firms. It's a community of artists, photographers, web designers, architects and animators, all based in converted warehouses. Spaces are available on flexible terms. Per-fick!

Where to hangout in Bristol

For some essential recharging, wifi remote working or a chance to meet clients - then you can't beat the good old coffee shop. And Bristol is conveniently awash with them. Primrose Cafe gets my first recommendation. It's an independent, best-loved cafe and restaurant with a great sun-trap outdoor space to enjoy in summer. The Boston Tea Party on Princess Victoria St in Clifton does great coffee. And you can't beat Lahloo Pantry for its Afternoon Tea. Full Court Press is worthy of a mention. Located on Broad Street, the coffee is to die for.

Breakfast is served at Lahloo Pantry

For some lunch/dinner and client entertaining, The H Bar is a nice little spot for some Latin American tasty treats. Wilks in Redland offers something a bit more impressive but still at affordable prices - definitely somewhere to show off. And if you fancy some tapas, Bravas is extremely popular with locals. There's also The Old Bookshop for something a bit more intimate and creative. To enjoy Bristol's harbourside, then take a look at riverstation. It has daily changing menus, created using locally sourced, fresh ingredients and it has the most amazing al-fresco terraces overlooking the water with wonderful views.

The Riverstation, Bristol

And to enjoy the end of each week for those essential wind-down drinks, Bristol has the best choice of bars and pubs to suit every creative. A good selection of beers (plus good food) can be found at the Hope & Anchor on Jacobs Wells Road & the Grain Barge on Hotwell Road. For cocktails, Hausbar is one of the best bars. Amoeba also does cocktails and is a little hidden gem over in Clifton.

The Grain Barge - a pub on a barge! Awesome

Grab a cocktail at Hausbar

To finish things off and dance the night away, you can't go wrong with Bristol. It's known as the most musical city in the UK for its wealth of local talent and its array of music venues. You have Colston Hall - named after Edward Colston and Bristol's largest live music venue. You also have the Bristol Academy, The Exchange, Fiddlers, Trinity Centre, St George's Bristol and a number of pubs from the jazz-loving Old Duke to rock at the Fleece and Firkin and indie bands at the Louisiana. Wow! Absolutely spoilt for choice.

What to do in Bristol

This is fast becoming the biggest Creative Cities feature to date. I can't get my head around everything that's happening in Bristol! There's too much to cover in just one article.

For art and inspiration, there are so many galleries to enjoy in Bristol. The Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery houses some amazing collections of art, ceramics, natural history and archaeology. Arnolfini is one of Europe's leading centres for contemporary arts.

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

Spike Island is a fantastic hub for contemporary art and design, and home to a gallery, cafe and working space for artists, designers and creative firms. There's always something happening there - definitely worth a visit! And of course, I can't miss out the Royal West of England Academy - Bristol's first art gallery and one of only five Royal Academies of Art in the whole of the UK. Paintworks is another art gallery and event space that has many exhibitions, all year round.

Jessica Warboys at Spike Island

As mentioned by Tom Stutt previously, Gromit Unleashed is happening this summer with a trail of 70 Gromit works of art dotted around Bristol. And if you love discovering street art dotted around the city, go on a Banksy Walking Tour or check out the famous Nelson Street where See No Evil has created a permanent cultural legacy for the city.

Video credit: See No Evil

From major West End shows, to stand up comedy and performing arts festivals, Bristol has plenty of plays and productions to suit all tastes. The Watershed offers a lively programme of independent film, digital media and events - all in the heart of Harbourside. The Tobacco Factory has a popular theatre with touring and in-house productions, children and music events. Bristol Hippodrome is one of the UK's top provincial theatres and stages all the major West End and Broadway productions. Bristol Old Vic is Britain's oldest working theatres, which is newly refurbished.

Nick Park with Gromit, ready for Gromit Unleashed this summer

To get your shopping kicks, Bristol's Shopping Quarter lies in the heart of the city with Cabot Circus, Quakers Friars, The Galleries and Broadmead bringing together over 500 stores. There's also an out-of-town complex at The Mall Cribbs Causeway. But if you're after the more independent type of boutiques, then Clifton and St Nicholas Market in the Old City is for you.

Cabot Circus shopping centre

To check out more of what Bristol has to offer, take a look at the Bristol City Council website. Or you can go to the official local tour guide at Visit Bristol.

A little video about Bristol

Video Credit: Courtesy of Visit Bristol

Latest Jobs in Bristol

Digital Designer, Dare
As a creatively led agency, the folk at Dare are always on the look-out for outstanding talent to join its team. From conception to production, they are always keeping an eye out in the creative community for Digital Designers with visually spectacular work that can really excite and inspire. Vacancies for digital designers do not come up often at Dare, but when they do, it’s really nice to lave a small list of talented folk on our candidate “hot file”. If you are a Bristol based designer with an impressive portfolio of digital work, Dare would love to see it and might even get in contact to arrange a chat. More details on Dare

Conceptual Designer - Packaging/Branding
Henry Nicholas Recruitment's client is a global, strategic, brand design consultancy that creates and builds inspiring, powerful and commercially effective brands through passion, commitment and smart thinking. Their diverse, enthusiastic and down-to-earth team of brand strategists, client service professionals and designers understand brands intuitively and apply fresh thinking and creative approaches to client briefs to produce outstanding results. They are on the lookout for a Middle Weight Designer to support design projects from start to fruition whilst liaising with the Creative Director, ultimately creating fantastic design results that deliver against the brief and the agreed brand objectives. More details on Henry Nicholas

Favourite Things: Adrian Flores, Evidently

2013-05-15T14:09:00+01:00

Favourite Things is a regular exploration of creative people's top five favourite things. It could be a book, a piece of artwork, a much-loved city, an ornament or a favourite hobby. If you'd like to share your Favourite Things, email things@creativeboom.co.uk. In the meantime, here's the latest Favourite Things with Adrian Flores, a creative director at Evidently, a creative content agency in London...

1. Basketball

I started playing organised basketball when I was 5. I’m a lot older than 5 now. I’ve been playing so long it’s hard for me to pin down exactly what it is I love about it. The way it allows for the countering of athleticism with strategy, individual brilliance with teamwork isn’t the sole preserve of basketball, but I like to think that few other sports can match the compelling way basketball delivers it. There’s also the narratives involved in following the NBA. In terms of place, history and personalities, the NBA does a great job of cultivating and promoting these larger themes that make each game about much more than just that game. Above and beyond that slightly wanky, pseudo-cerebral take on a game, it’s fun to watch and great to play. Both of which you can do over beers.

TL;DR Basketball is ace and goes well with beer.

2.Brown Cardigan

I love internet. I love the internet too, but internet is different from the internet. If you don’t understand what that means, then you probably have a much healthier approach to the internet than I do. The gold standard in internet has to be BrownCardigan.com. It’s run by a DJ mate who lives in Bondi and a couple of guys he met over beers at Ravesi’s. I’ve literally seen every single post on there, and I plan to keep it that way.

3. New Places

I was trying to conceptualise getting away and experiencing new places and the different ways people live, but it was making me realise how much of a twat I am. So I picked this photo of my passport collection. Which is still pretty twatish, but you get the idea. I like exploring.

4. Tacos

Surely the greatest food. And not those crappy hard shell tex-mex things, I’m talking the real deal; those mexican taqueria, LA taco truck style handfuls of goodness. Perfect for late nights, starting the night, quick lunches, afternoon tea and even breakfast. There’s nothing as versatile as the taco. If you disagree with this statement, you’re lying.

5. Banter

Banter entertains those around you and it keeps you honest. If you take yourself too seriously, your mates should be there to cut you back down to size. As a load of mine undoubtedly will after they find this interview.

Malina Corpadean shows us why she is one of Canada's best fashion photographers

2013-05-14T21:32:00+01:00

Fashion photography is art in my book. The way a model holds a pose. The way the light is captured on their face. The way the photographer makes us desperately want to be that model and wear those clothes. But it's only the very best who can make us lust after fashion. Because they know how to make the model come to life. They help paint a picture behind each pose, leaving us wondering 'Who is this woman in the photograph?' Malina Corpadean is one of them. Born and educated in Romania but pursuing higher education in art history and photography in Canada, Malina's aesthetic style is largely tinted by her academic background and her inner fascination with art history. With 15 years experience behind her, she helps to tell a story in each and every photograph. And when you look at her impressive list of clients - The Aldo Group, Marcelle Cosmetics, Jacob, The Bay, The Mimran Group, Dove, Elle Magazine, Nylon - you can see why she's one of the most sought after fashion photographers. A member of the The MeatMarket you can also see more of Malina's work at www.malinacorpadean.com.

Workabout: Le Bureau, Battersea, London

2013-05-14T21:10:00+01:00

Workabout is a regular review of cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and co-working spaces where freelancers and creatives can enjoy a change of scenery or meet clients.

Today, I'm taking a peek at Le Bureau, a beautifully designed office in Battersea that provides shared workspace for independent professionals, startups and small businesses. This is the kind of work environment that not only offers desks from just £79 per week, it also has beautifully designed meeting or quiet rooms and the kind of facilities that make working away from home worthwhile. I'm talking full air con, high tech fingerprint security, lockable storage, a 600 DVD film library, high speed internet, a selection of daily newspapers and magazines plus access to a bar/cafe with breakout area, leather sofas, pool table and foosball. Oh yes. And all set in stunning surroundings to give you that real professional edge. I love it!

Got a cafe, coffee shop, space, corner or area that you'd like me to review? Email workabout@creativeboom.co.uk and send me a few details on why your venue deserves a mention.

Workabout: Tamper Coffee, Sheffield

2013-05-14T20:24:00+01:00

Image Credit: Photography by L.Surr

Workabout is a regular review of cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and co-working spaces where freelancers and creatives can enjoy a change of scenery or meet clients.

Today, I'm looking at Tamper Coffee, a New Zealand owned and operated coffee bar, serving gourmet coffee, speciality teas, pies and pastries, sandwiches and delicious homemade cakes and treats. Based on Westfield Terrace in Sheffield, it's owned by Jonathan Perry - a trained coffee barista from, yes - you guessed it, New Zealand. During his career he has worked with the top coffee companies and coffee bean roasters in his home country and is proud to bring that knowledge and passion to Sheffield. Great coffee but also a popular spot for local creatives to meet and greet, take a break or simply catch up on some work. Find out more at www.tampercoffee.co.uk or check out their friendly Facebook Page.

Image Credit: Photography by L.Surr

Got a cafe, coffee shop, space, corner or area that you'd like me to review? Email workabout@creativeboom.co.uk and send me a few details on why your venue deserves a mention.

Ed Clews shouts lights, camera, action on his film and music illustrations

2013-05-14T20:02:00+01:00

The Beatles, obviously!

I always love a good caricature of my favourite film stars or musicians but it's got to be decent. You can't just draw, paint or illustrate a celebrity without somehow placing your own take on them. This is why I admire York creative Ed Clews and these unique illustrations, which show his specialism in capturing famous people from the worlds of film and music. He designs, he illustrates and he photographs - Ed is a jack of all trades and does quite a few private commissions for people, so if you fancy your own caricature sitting proudly on your lounge wall, you can contact him via his website at Edclews.com.

Can you really contain and control creativity?

2013-05-14T15:45:00+01:00

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

In a world where we've never before experienced so many opportunities to connect and be discovered thanks to the magic of the Internet, it's entirely possible for any creative to start their own business and attract clients from anywhere across the globe.

How we do that is through various digital means. We seek exposure either by launching our own website and dealing with SEO or by creating online portfolios with popular networks such as Carbonmade or Behance. We find blogs, communities or forums where we can raise our profiles and get noticed. And we get social to drive people to us and build relationships that lead to those much-needed contracts.

It's these two essential ingredients - exposure and connections - that really help to drive business forward. But even though it would seem we have all the tools we need to easily be discovered, we haven't quite got there yet.

Let me explain why...

If you're going to be found by potential clients, you've got to be online, right? You've got to be showcasing your work somewhere, irrespective of whether you've got a Twitter account or LinkedIn profile. So you've got two options to get started - a website or an online portfolio.

If you go down the relatively inexpensive route of an online portfolio, you'll find your 'exposure potential' can be very limiting. That's because online portfolios don't offer the same SEO potential as your average website. You can't really optimise for 'graphic designer Manchester' with a portfolio page, for example. And people won't necessarily know that you're looking for work - unless you either a) tell people about your portfolio or b) attract clients from the actual network. That's assuming of course that clients will be on that specific network… Because most of the time, they won't be! Portfolios often lie with niche networks and not everyone will know about them. And with so many networks to choose from, how do you know which one will offer the best exposure?

And when it comes to websites, they can be very expensive to get up and running plus SEO can be a competitive minefield. Especially if you're trying to optimise your site with niche keywords that are already dominated by other local creatives.

In a word, it's really tough making a name for yourself online and it's tough getting exposure... It's no wonder many believe that 'referrals' still offer the best chance to win new work, rather than waiting around to be discovered.

This is where Behance founder Scott Belsky wants to change everything. He wants to solve this problem in the hope that one day discovery will far outweigh referral.

Scott explored this theme in a recent talk at Adobe MAX. He said that the creative industries have always been quite chaotic and uncontrollable with niche communities, websites and networks all over the web that aren't currently connected. And it's his passionate dream to make sense of it all by bringing everything and everyone together in one big all-encompassing network, so all creatives can be connected, gain that crucial exposure and be easily discovered.

Scott Belsky of Behance, talking at Adobe MAX 2013

But the problem with this dream revolves around an assumption that we should all sign up to Behance. It's a convenient viewpoint that follows Adobe's acquisition of Behance and the two brands trying to offer a one-stop solution under the banner of Adobe's Creative Cloud.

Yes, Scott will no doubt want to make Behance the biggest and best network - for profitable, corporate reasons. That much is obvious. But he could also be passionate about solving the ultimate creative problem - and that's to control creativity. Making it all work harmoniously together. Allowing creatives to gain exposure, be connected and ultimately be more discoverable.

But if there are so many niche communities and networks already out there, how is Scott going to convince everyone to join Behance when surely it's another network in itself? A network that might well face the same limitations as other networks? Isn't it a bit naive and silly to assume everyone will want to use his network, and his network alone?

There are various obstacles Behance faces in creating the ultimate creative network, of which I'll now try to explore.

Firstly, how are they going to convince everyone to join Behance? Particularly when the obvious corporate goals of the company will put many off? Because by trying to get people to buy into what essentially is a profitable monopoly, are they arrogantly forgetting that creativity, or indeed economics, has no bounds - and that alternatives will always find a way to feed a demand that agrees with this sentiment and wants to go elsewhere?

Of course, Adobe recently added fuel to the flames of this sentiment after it ditched its Creative Suite products and instead moved to a subscription-based model with its Creative Cloud venture. Something that has angered thousands and thousands of customers. Over 12,000 people have already signed a petition over at Change.org, calling on the company to keep selling its packaged software.

Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen announcing Creative Cloud at Adobe MAX 2013

Although many see the Creative Cloud service as a positive and necessary move, disgruntled customers are worried that the change will end up costing them more long term and give them less control over their applications.

The consequences of this recent move are now unfolding. Because when brands like Adobe rise to the top, they sometimes fall - or they have to adapt to move with the times. When changes occur, smaller companies rise up below them and pick up the customers they've lost. This is what's already happening with lower cost Photoshop alternative Pixelmator or open source image editor GIMP. Make no mistake, there will be network replacements and alternatives to Adobe/Behance. It's the way basic economics go. Not everyone will want to buy into something. It's just not how things work. Just look at Facebook and its recent loss of millions of users here in the UK. If people aren't happy, they'll go elsewhere. If products become too expensive, they'll find cheaper alternatives, etc.

Secondly, how do you inform those outside of the creative industries about Behance? If only the creative industries know about Behance, how are its members going to be found by all those potential clients who are simply looking for a freelance illustrator or web developer to support them? How does anyone else know that Behance exists? For instance, I've spoken to three or four clients this week and out of curiosity asked them if they'd heard of Behance. Met with the same blank expressions, it was clear they hadn't.

This leads back to the same issue with networks. Can Adobe and Behance convince the creative masses to sign up with them, and them alone - solving the problem of exposure and connectivity all in one hit? Getting in front of the right audience? I'm not so sure. This relies on everyone using Behance and everyone knowing about it - a bold ambition even for the world's largest creative network.

Thirdly, it's also a creative trait to want to choose the best tools (or networks) for the job. That means creatives won't want to put all their eggs in one basket, as that one-stop solution might not provide everything they want or need. It makes things inflexible almost. It causes restraints.

Creating a single network that everyone uses and everyone knows about is impossible, in my humble opinion.

Don't get me wrong. I love Adobe products. And I understand the sentiments of Scott Belsky's ambitions. But I'm not sure creativity can be controlled. It's not as simple as that. Creativity can only be controlled up to a certain point, and then it finds a way to break free and innovate, push forward and seek better solutions.

You can't also make the naive assumption that everyone will feel and think the same way. You can't assume creativity can be controlled. And, more importantly, you can't control the people. Essentially, it will be up to the creative industries whether they choose to make Behance the biggest network, not the other way around.

And one final point - haven't we already got a network that's working beautifully? Isn't it called the Internet? Is this desire by Behance to get us all on board and buy into this sentiment that we must control creativity to achieve true connectivity and exposure a corporate lie? Are we being fed a manipulation to fall for their network? What are your thoughts?

Are you on Behance? Do you think they're trying to achieve great things? What do you think of the recent acquisition with Adobe? Do you think its Creative Cloud is a good thing along with the subscription model for its software products? Or do you feel as though it's going in the wrong direction?

Do you think creativity can be controlled? Or is this a problem that will never be solved? Or is it even a problem in the first place? Do you think Adobe/Behance are achieving great things or do you think this problem of exposure and connectivity can't be solved through another network? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Ricardo Bessa tells beautiful stories through his dream-like illustrations

2013-05-10T15:31:00+01:00

Little White Flowers

I first came across Ricardo Bessa on the Gallery of Mo last year and have since followed his work. He's a Portuguese creative based in London who has been working as a freelance illustrator and storyboard artist, as well as working on and off for D&AD. Some of the work I'm sharing was carried out for the Gallery of Mo, which was in aid of the annual Movember movement to raise money for cancer research. Also featured is Little White Flowers, the winning entry for a postcard competition by Fox Searchlight & Curzon Cinemas, based on the movie Stoker. The Light Eater was done for Popshot Magazine, for the short story by Kirsty Logan. And The Kill List is his most recent work, created for a fan show in Paris to celebrate the beginning of the third season of Game of Thrones. More of Ricardo's work can be found at www.ricardobessa.com.

Workabout: The Brink, Liverpool

2013-05-10T15:07:00+01:00

Workabout is a regular review of cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and co-working spaces where freelancers and creatives can enjoy a change of scenery or meet clients.

Today, I'm checking out The Brink, a place to eat, drink, hang out and meet up – without the booze. There aren’t many places like that are there? The Brink is a revolutionary new venue that’s so much more than your usual café bar. They've taken alcohol out of the mix to provide a truly welcoming, creative and intelligent space where people from all backgrounds and walks of life can dine, hang out, socialise and relax. They even like to do their bit to promote the health and creativity of their local community, and work closely with local artists, musicians, poets and performers to put on a wide range of amusing, entertaining, educational and inspirational events! How cool is that! Best of all, The Brink is a recovery social enterprise, which means that all their profits go directly back into the community to fund support for those who have suffered through alcoholism and addiction. Wow! Find out more at The Brink.

Got a cafe, coffee shop, space, corner or area that you'd like me to review? Email workabout@creativeboom.co.uk and send me a few details on why your venue deserves a mention.

Phil Hansen, an artist who wants you to help create his next piece of artwork

2013-05-10T11:27:00+01:00

During the recent Adobe MAX conference, I was thrilled to discover Phil Hansen, an inspiring multimedia artist whose story reminds us that when we face limitations in our lives we shouldn't allow them to hold us back.

Phil faced his own limitation in his early days of doing art when he became obsessed with pointillism (the process of making lots and lots of tiny dots) but years of doing this caused permanent nerve damage in his right arm. He had to give up pointillism and almost gave up on art completely, as he developed an uncontrollable shake in his right hand. But he soon found ways to get around his condition and it was fascinating hearing his personal story. It's a story he has shared recently on TED and during Adobe MAX about 'embracing the shake'.

From embracing his limitation, Phil has created the most beautiful pieces of artwork. Finding different ways to continue his passion and the results speak for themselves. From creating a painting of Bruce Lee from only doing karate chops onto a large canvas to drawing on lots of individual coffee cups from Starbucks.

Now Phil is embarking on a new project and he wants you to get involved. He said: "In telling my own story and hearing stories from others, I became curious about how we perceive and deal with limitations. In this art project and short documentary, I’m looking to create a public dialogue about the stories of our limitations.This is how it works: you share a story with me, and I will write many of these stories on a huge canvas to create a piece of art. I hope to more deeply examine the essence of our limitations, and shed some light on our struggles and our triumphs. I believe connecting through these stories of hopes and dreams, fears and lessons learned will inspire and influence the outlook of our limitations. In the end, there’s a greater story to be told as we reflect on the stories of our lives collectively."

Want to get involved? Call Phil on 651-321-4996 as he would love to hear your story about facing a limitation. Your stories will then be written to create one massive piece of art - like the example above. You can also donate towards the project via Kickstarter. Even better, you can watch Phil live on his webcam at Philinthecircle.com.

Photographer Lewis Noll shoots lifestyle pictures you won't forget

2013-05-10T10:57:00+01:00

Good photographers shoot people beautifully. Great photographers do more than just that. They manage to capture something that no one else thought of. They turn their work into art. Lewis Noll is someone I came across recently. He's a lifestyle photographer from London who also happens to work for Nexus Productions. He's in the running for 'Best Job in the World' for the Tourism Australia competition, hoping to become a photographer for Timeout Magazine in Melbourne. He is now amongst 150 candidates from 35 countries still in contention for the prize. He also happens to shoot beautiful pictures. Go check out his work.

Icelandic spirit and nature is captured beautifully by Maria Kjartans

2013-05-09T14:32:00+01:00

Iceland is one of those places that completely fascinates me. It's somewhere I've not yet been to but it's definitely on 'the list'. A list I've had since my parents bought me a children's atlas when I was knee high. Icelandic born artist Maria Kjartans gives us an astounding insight into her home country with an exhibition at London art gallery DegreeArt. Called ‘Spiritual Landscapes’, it connects the audience directly with the feral aspects of human nature, instinct, passion and curiosity of places that we interact with physically and spiritually. As much an explorer as a photographer, Maria’s fascination and obsession with life cycles and events, across cultures, dominates the subject matter of her pieces and drives her to visit often remote and unusual locations. Find out more at www.degreeart.com.

Richard Combes ROI blurs what we believe is reality with his award-winning oil paintings

2013-05-09T13:50:00+01:00

Richard Combes’ stunning oil paintings explore the relation between architecture and people, examining the subtle dialogue created between space and the occupier. The inclusion of a solitary figure, combined with the employment of intrusive perspective, plays with the bounds of personal space and the subject-object relation. Blank walls and abandoned objects are given a presence through detailed rendering and an association that is encouraged by the absence of human interaction.

Following his election as a full member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters in 2004, a feat which exemplifies his skill as an oil painter, Combes’ award-winning work has received international acclaim. Combes studied painting at the New York Academy of Art, graduating with a Master of Fine Art (cum laude). He previously studied architecture at the University of Liverpool, an influence which profoundly effects his work, demonstrating mastery of technique and material.

See new work by Richard Combes ROI at 2022nq Manchester from 7–15 June. See www.2022nq.co.uk/contact for directions.

Roundup: 9 May 2013

2013-05-09T12:21:00+01:00

Vanilla Ink at Dundee Contemporary Arts, Scotland

Jewellery by designer Victoria Kelsey

Vanilla Ink Studios will be taking part in Dundee Contemporary Art's (DCA) Craft focus until 16 June 2013 and will feature the work of the studio's nine jewellery designers. The show will offer an exclusive 'sneak peek' at the start of their collections for International Jewellery London (IJL) set to take place at London's Earls Court in September. Along with the exclusive IJL collections, Vanilla Ink will be showcasing work made throughout the first year of its mentoring programme and will be available to buy throughout the month.

Where?: DCA, Dundee, Scotland
When?: Until 16 June 2013
Cost?: Free
More info: www.dca.org.uk

How to create a Brand | Class 101, Shoreditch, London

Learn how to brand with DreamWear

DreamWear in collaboration with RMediaCircle is set to host a masterclass 'How To Create A Brand | Class 101' for ambitious and creative entrepreneurs and also students with a passion for fashion, design, product design and the creative industry, who are thinking of starting up their own brand. The session will look at the conceptual beginnings of starting a brand right through to production processes and product development.

Class 101 is a brand creation workshop on May 11th at The Cube London, with influencers and creative educators who have worked with brands from Levi to Diesel and House of Holland. This initiative is project based and takes a collaborative learning approach, where you will learn how to move through various production stages- from the spark of an idea, through to product development, design, visual branding, critical thinking and customer acquisition. In addition to new portfolio material, including your own branded limited edition, students will benefit from new contacts and a unique learning experience, within a class of well networked and aspiring creatives.

Where?: THECUBE, London, 155 Commercial Street, London, E1 6BJ
When?: Saturday 11 May 2013 between 12pm-4pm
Cost?: £30 per ticket
More info: EventBrite.com

Festival Forge In, Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, Sheffield

See the traditional crafts and skills of local blacksmiths

Join the British Artist Blacksmiths Association, some of the most skilled blacksmiths in the country, at their forges for a ‘stainless’ twist on forging hot metal at this 18th century scythe and steelworks. Enjoy a showcase of traditional crafts and skills, try your hand at woodturning or lacemaking or join Mr Tyzack for a tour of the Hamlet.

Where?: Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, Abbeydale Road South, Sheffield S2 7QW
When?: Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 May 2013, 10am - 4pm
Cost?: £3 per adult; accompanied children - free
More info: www.simt.co.uk

Newbridge Arts Trail, Bath

Painting by local artist Richard Varley

The annual Newbridge Arts Trail takes place in Bath this weekend. It's an event where local artists living in the Newbridge and Lower Weston areas of Bath open their homes or studios to the public. The purpose is to create a community event and showcase the diverse range of work produced by local artists. Visitors can see the work, talk to the artists and have an insight into their creative processes. The work includes painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, ceramics and jewellery, much of which is offered for sale at affordable prices.

A printed trail map, showing all locations, will be available from sponsors Chelsea Café, Chelsea Road Greengrocers, Interior Harmony Flooring and hairdressers ‘Naughty But Nice’ (all in Chelsea Road), Andrews Estate Agents and the Weston (Newbridge Road), Genesis Lifestyle Centre (Station Road), Frontier Picture Frames (Locksbrook Road), Minuteman Press (Walcot Street) and the Bath Library. It can also be downloaded from the Newbridge Arts Trail website.

Where?: Various locations in Newbridge and Lower Weston areas of Bath
When?: Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 May 2013
Cost?: Free to one and all
More info: www.newbridgeartstrail.com

Through American Eyes: Frederic Church, Edinburgh

Frederic Church - Autumn. Image courtesy of Wikipedia

The major exhibition at the Scottish National Gallery this summer will celebrate the work of one of the greatest of all American landscape painters. Through American Eyes: Frederic Church and the Landscape Oil Sketch will bring together 25 works by an artist who revelled in the grandeur of the natural world, and whose dramatic paintings of far-flung locations from Newfoundland to the Middle East made him extremely popular in Europe as well as the US.

Where?: Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh
When?: Saturday 11 May - 8 September 2013
Cost?: Free to one and all
More info: Nationalgalleries.org

Richmond May Fair, Surrey

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

This weekend sees the 43nd consecutive Richmond May Fair. Based at Parish Church of St Mary Magdalene and The Green, Richmond, Surrey with over 100 charity stalls plus a quality craft marquee, vintage carousel & helter-skelter. All day free entertainment including the crowing of Richmond May Queen and some good old Maypole dancing.

Where?: Parish Church of St Mary Magdalene and The Green, Richmond, Surrey
When?: Saturday 11 May 2013
Cost?: Free admission
More info: www.richmondmayfair.org

Favourite Things: Phil Wilce, TH_NK

2013-05-09T11:59:00+01:00

Phil Wilce is creative director at award-winning London digital agency TH_NK where clients have included Nando’s, Warner Bros, ASOS, Sony Playstation, Channel 4 and BBC among others. He's also very well known on Spotify where he shares really great playlists - most of which are downloaded onto my iPhone. Phil, it's over to you...

1. Radiohead

Radiohead aren’t the band you think they are. They aren’t even the band most of the audience thought they were the last time I saw them. Not only innovators in their music, Radiohead are innovators in the way they sell their music too. They scythe ahead with a healthy disregard for convention.

From the disruptive ‘pay what you like’ model employed for the glorious ‘In Rainbows’, to working with Google to create a video made not with a camera, but uniquely with data. From harnessing the power of social media to get fans to create their videos, to playing live, where they even reinvent their set list every night. Innovation. Not imitation. An ethos echoed in this industry.

With Radiohead it would almost appear that innovation is driven by musical malaise. As a collective, and individuals, they strike me as being never satisfied. And selfishly, I hope they never are.

2. London

London is laced with inspiration around every single corner. Seventeen years in and this city still packs a punch. Makes me laugh. Thrills me. Surprises. And delights. It inspires me as it has generations of artists, musicians and writers. It’s been the location for many firsts. It’s a feast of new experiences. Look up. Look down. Breathe it in. Let it ruin you. Let it run away with you. Escape in it.

If you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life. Amen.

3. Chris Morris

Bombdogs. Cake (it's a made up drug), Paedogeddon. Meatloaf exploding live on stage. The cannon of Chris Morris is the stuff of legend. His magic is in his mastery of words. His mind mash. A riot of irreverence. His work is tirelessly original and controversial, in equal measure. All of which adds up to a minefield of inspiration. These are the facts. Let’s kick the stick from the blind man of ignorance.

4. The Pasty

What? The entire ingredients of a mouthwatering meal packed into, and kept warm inside, a delicious pastry casing? With a handle? If there’s a smarter, indeed tastier, form of packaging in the world, hit me with it. Now. With its proud roots in the mines of Cornwall, the pasty was originally a meal of two halves, main and dessert. Miners had their initial shaped in pastry so they could find their own. They sacrificed half of their pasty to the spirits in the mine. Shakespeare wrote about the pasty. Oh, and Cornish miners exported the pasty along with their mining skills, to the States, Australia and Mexico. By the way, it doesn’t matter if any of this isn’t true. Why let the truth get in the way of a good story? And we’re all about telling stories.

5. Spotify

Laughed. That’s actually what I did when I was told that one day I wouldn’t own any of my own music. I remember the argument that followed. Then came Spotify. I can’t remember the last time I plugged in my hard drive to steam the gallons of mp3s I once pored over, let alone open a CD case.

Music is an inspiration for many contributors to this feature. There are any number of reasons Spotify inspires. Not least of which is that the streaming service actively encourages musical exploration, experimentation and abandonment to an extent that owned music could never match. And curiosity is oxygen for creativity. Go play.

Workabout: The Hub, Islington, London

2013-05-08T07:20:00+01:00

Workabout is a regular review of cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and co-working spaces where freelancers and creatives can enjoy a change of scenery or meet clients.

Today, I'm checking out Hub Islington, a London co-working space that's just a two minute walk from Angel tube station. Hub Islington is a mix of freelancers, small businesses and micro-entrepreneurs, brought together because they do work that has a social purpose. They don't just do business to make money (although that is nice, too), but because they want to create work that makes the world better: whether that means running a sustainability social enterprise, organising gamified treks around London, or writing about cultural and social issues. This is a place where people actually talk to each other, something that's essential for lonely freelancers. And the space is set up to help you do that. Membership options are available if you're keen to find out more. And it's a great platform for events, including a Freelance Rights talk, which you must check out... It's happening at the end of June. To find out more visit Islington.the-hub.net.

Got a cafe, coffee shop, space, corner or area that you'd like me to review? Email workabout@creativeboom.co.uk and send me a few details on why your venue deserves a mention.

Ciaran Murphy's colourful illustrations spark our imagination

2013-05-08T06:51:00+01:00

I'm reminded of Edvard Munch when I look at the paintings and illustrations by Edinburgh artist Ciaran Murphy. All the colours, brush strokes and swirls take me back to his most famous painting 'The Scream', although Ciaran's style certainly isn't expressionist. His work is very distinct and colourful, definitely not abstract. Looking at each illustration, you'll notice the high level of detail that he pours into everything and there is no limit to the amount of colours, tools or mediums that he will use to produce his beautiful artworks. It was difficult picking out my favourites, so you must also check his portfolio: Ciaranmurphy.co.uk.

Readers' Studios: The BIO Agency, London

2013-05-08T01:17:00+01:00

Today, I'm very excited to share the London home of The BIO Agency, a digital agency with 'big ideas'. They've recently decked out their office, which is an eclectic mix of eccentricity, all designed to inspire and be a great place to create, collaborate and innovate. I especially love the quirky little details, like a toy squirrel hanging out in the reception and the overgrown plants hanging from everywhere to create a really homely space. BIO, it's over to you...

In BIO's own words

"We wanted to design an environment that people could call home, a place that would inspire creativity and somewhere that people looked forward to working. It would also give a home to our ideas and give them room to grow. A greenhouse for ideas, if you like.

"The result was a fun environment, with an eccentric Victorian farmer’s market feel. It’s full of elements that hint and mirror the nurturing of organic ideas. When walking into the reception area you could be in an old distressed building, where overgrown plants grow and even a squirrel will greet you.

"At the heart of the agency is the breakfast and bar area that serves up free breakfast every day and amazing cocktails in the evening. Its central position encourages staff to congregate and exchange ideas.

"The unconventional meeting rooms aim to surprise. The carpet in the boardroom feels like grass under your feet, while the glass table rests on top of rustic wooden pallets, plus plants grow up and down walls. Another room is decked out like a cosy Scandinavian log cabin and is used as a creative think-tank, allowing staff to pin their ideas on display. To be sure of an idea, it’s always worth leaving it to hang for a few days.

"Next door is wall-to-wall white. The total purity allows people a blank canvas to draw on. Ideas freely run across the walls (but only in with white board markers)! This theme continues through the corridors where staff sticks their ideas on the walls. This environment encourages the thought process and allows others to comment and critique, which is in the nature of improving an idea and crafting it until the seed is ready to grow outside of the agency."

Find out more about The BIO Agency

Website: www.thebioagency.com | Email: hello@thebioagency.com | Twitter: @thebioagency

Think my readers might dig your creative space? Drop me a line with a minimum of six high resolution photos and blurb about why your studio rocks your creative world at studios@creativeboom.co.uk.

James Andrews documents the wonderful people of Manchester

2013-05-07T18:48:00+01:00

I love Manchester. Its red brick buildings, its quirkiness and canals - it has always felt like 'home' to me and it's where I currently live. I actually grew up in a very small village in the Cheshire countryside. But Manchester was the closest city where we'd go to shop, eat out and sometimes enjoy nights out. Now, to be living in the thick of it - I'm loving every minute. Aside from city life and all Manchester has to offer, the thing I love the most is the people here. There's a real warmth and charm to Mancunians. And because of them, it's a great place to live, work and play. Recently discovered is this fascinating series of portrait images by local photographer James Andrews, who has been documenting the people of Manchester for the past 18 months. It's beautiful work. You can see more at www.JamesAndrews.co.

Adobe MAX 2013: A Creative Evolution & the next generation of creativity

2013-05-06T19:53:00+01:00

Adobe MAX. The 'creativity' conference. Named 'creative' for good reason. You see, Adobe has always been about the tools, the systems and the software. And its annual conference has always been about the traditional developer. But as the world has changed beyond recognition - with the creative industries becoming a significant player in the global economy and technology transforming the way we create forever - Adobe now sees itself firmly placed in the middle of all that creativity.

Instead of just allowing creative processes to happen, it wants to be at the heart of the action. It wants to be the 'go to' support for creative freelancers, startups and agencies across the globe. You can see this mentality through its relatively new Creative Cloud venture, giving 'all the tools you need to create, collaborate, and stay connected', along with last year's acquisition of Behance and embracing everything that network has to offer.

If you think about it, where in the creative industries doesn't Adobe touch us in some way? We edit photos, add effects to videos, dream something up in Illustrator, create a whole animation, develop things, build things, create things. We store files in the Cloud. We connect with others. We share our work via Behance online portfolios. Adobe plays a huge part in any creative's life. And it has developed and grown to suit our changing needs since it first launched in the early '80s. Today, at Adobe MAX, with a record 5,000 attendees, we're going to hear how it's evolving again.

It's this 'creative evolution' that Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen, Adobe's SVP and GM of Digital Media David Wadhwani - along with a bunch of Adobe visionaries and Scott Belsky, founder and CEO of Behance - wanted to explore in the opening session of Adobe MAX this morning. Along with the highly anticipated unveiling of Adobe's new creative workflows and capabilities.

Here's what they unveiled…

Major update to Creative Cloud

Adobe today announced a significant update to Creative Cloud, the company’s flagship offering for creatives. Available in June and packed with new features, Creative Cloud reimagines the creative process through a set of “CC” desktop applications and sophisticated cross-device collaboration and publishing capabilities.

Creative files can be stored, synced and shared, via Creative Cloud, on Mac OS, Windows, iOS and Android; and Behance, the world’s leading online creative community, is now integrated with Creative Cloud, so customers can showcase work, get feedback on projects and gain global exposure. With Creative Cloud publishing finished work has never been easier, with enhanced services that build and power websites, mobile apps, tablet publications, online portfolios, and content for virtually any medium and device.

David Wadhwani, senior vice president and general manager, Digital Media, Adobe, said: “Creative Cloud brings together everything you need to create your best work. We’re delivering incredible new versions of our desktop tools, services that take publishing content to the next level and we’re making it easier than ever for creatives to collaborate and share their work worldwide. Creative Cloud is a destination that champions inspiring work and builds lasting connections within a vibrant global creative community.”

Adobe Creative Cloud powers frictionless creative workflows

This milestone update to Creative Cloud simplifies the entire creative process. Core features include:

Desktop, web and mobile access: Creative Cloud allows users to stay connected with workgroups and the creative community via their desktop, website, or mobile device. With Creative Cloud, your entire creative world gets its own centralised hub where ideas, files, fonts, settings, notifications, and team members are connected and organised. Join group folders to work collaboratively; track updates and comments to shared files; stay connected to work on Behance; get notified when app updates are available and download the latest updates; and access favourite colours, fonts and settings, wherever you are.

Integration with the world’s leading creative community: With Behance now integrated with Creative Cloud, members will be able to publish their own portfolios, follow other creatives, publish work-in-progress from within a growing number of CC apps and solicit feedback from the worldwide creative community. Over 1.4 million creatives globally are part of the Behance network.

Synchronise, Store, Share and Collaborate: All files and assets will be automatically synchronised between the desktop, cloud and mobile devices. A designer can take a photo on their iPad, use Photoshop Touch to refine the photo while on the go, then access that file, via the cloud, and use Photoshop CC on their Mac or Windows PC to further enhance the image. Designers can designate shared folders and invite others to collaborate on files. Edits are stored with version history so users can share their files with confidence. Individual members receive 20GB of storage.

Seamless publishing:. Creative Cloud members have access to the services necessary to publish highly personalised portfolio websites using Behance ProSite, high-impact digital magazines for iPad using Digital Publishing Suite (DPS) Single Edition, and PhoneGap™ Build to create and publish mobile apps for any device. Adobe Typekit features an unmatched library of old-classic to new-favourite fonts for use on websites – and, with this update, creatives can use many of these same fonts directly in their desktop applications.

New Family of CC desktop applications available exclusively to Creative Cloud members

This update to Creative Cloud includes the next generation of Adobe desktop applications -- including Adobe Photoshop CC, InDesign CC, Illustrator CC, Dreamweaver CC and Premiere Pro CC. Adobe’s desktop tools, previously known as Creative Suite (CS), are now branded CC to reflect that they are an integral part of Creative Cloud and have been reinvented to support a more intuitive, connected way of creating. Adobe Creative Cloud includes more than 30 tools and services that enable professional-grade content creation and delivery across print, web, mobile apps, video and photography.

Hundreds of new features are included in these latest versions of Adobe’s industry-defining desktop tools. Innovations include:

Photoshop CC will ship with new sharpening technologies and designer workflow enhancements. Camera Shake Reduction deblurs images that would have otherwise been lost due to camera movement. All-new Smart Sharpen makes texture and detail pop, and Adobe Camera Raw 8 adds even more powerful photographic controls to straighten and perfect images. Photoshop CC is the first Adobe desktop application to include the ability to post files directly to Behance from within the application, showcasing work immediately and integrating peer feedback into the creative process.
For designers, the Touch Type tool in Illustrator CC offers a new level of creativity with type. Move, scale, and rotate text characters knowing that it remains editable. This feature works with a mouse, stylus or multi-touch device. Illustrator also enablespainting with a brush made from a photo. Art, Pattern, and Scatter brushes can contain raster images, so designers can create complex organic designs quickly, with simple brush strokes. A new, modern architecture for InDesign CC turbocharges performance, and in-browser editing in Adobe Muse CC -- a tool for designers to create and publish HTML websites without writing code -- allows clients to make edits to a published website, which can then be reviewed, approved, and updated by the designer.
For video customers Adobe Premiere Pro CC includes dramatic new editing features, customisations and improvements to help editors work efficiently. Premiere Pro CC integrates powerful colour workflows, with the addition of the Lumetri Deep Colour Engine to easily apply rich colour grading looks. A high-impact version of Adobe After Effects CC brings motion graphics and visual effects artists more creative possibilities and allows them to work more easily in 3D with the new Live 3D Pipeline with Maxon Cinema4D integration. There are also all-new versions of Adobe SpeedGrade CC, Audition CC, Prelude CC and Adobe Story CC Plus.
Web designers and developers can look forward to significant advances in Adobe’s family of Edge tools and services. The latest Edge Animate CC lets web designers create animated and interactive content with amazing ease and precision, using native HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Adobe is also previewing a new workflow from Photoshop CC to Edge Reflow CC that will enable creatives to build web designs in Photoshop that can easily be turned into responsive web sites. Dreamweaver users can look forward to the most up-to-date CSS and properties via the intuitive visual editing tool, CSS Designer. And Adobe Flash Pro CC features a modern, modular 64-bit architecture rebuilt from the ground up to be fast and reliable.

Other highlights include:

New Kuler app

Imagine being able to take inspiration from the world around you and digitally pick out colour schemes for your next creative project. This is where Adobe's new Kuler app comes in handy. Next time you spot a bunch of colours you like, you can point your iPhone's camera to the subject in question, and the app will pick out the shades, allowing you to then save them to your Creative Cloud account and easily access them for later use.

Fonts & typography made easier

Also announced today - 'fonts on your desktop'. Creative Cloud members will now be able to get their hands on 175 professional font families through Adobe Typekit. Beautiful.

Cloud storage taken further

With the new Creative Cloud, you aren't just sharing files, you're sharing layered files. You're showing every layer, every version of the work, every process. Which means you can 'restore' and switch back to previous versions. Or simply keep track of each creative step. And even better? You can share these with your pals in the Cloud.

Need feedback from the creative community?

With Creative Cloud incorporating Behance, you can now save files as 'Revisions' and ask the community for instant feedback.

And looking to the future?

Adobe has so many exciting things going on and plenty of technical advancements in the pipeline. They're open to collaborate, push the boundaries of creativity and innovate. Check out Adobe.com/go/creativevision to find out more.

Just to give you an interesting insight, Adobe launched today 'Project Mighty' - its first hardware product and a Cloud-based digital pen, along with Project Napoleon, a digital ruler - named so because it's a 'very short ruler'. Vice president of Experience Design at Adobe Michael Gough happily talked through the features but you can find out more at adobe.com/go/projectmighty.

Last but not least, there's Project Context - something Adobe has been working on in collaboration with Wired magazine for the past 12 months. The idea is to make the creative workflow of publishing digitised and more seamless. Demonstrated by Claudia de Almeida, design director at Wired, on a big touchscreen. Beautiful.

Conclusion?

This is just the beginning. There's a lot more to come from Creative Cloud. There's literally hundreds of new features since its launch over a year ago. Now it's connected, it's brought everything together in a harmonious circle, all managed through the Creative Cloud and all to become available on 17 June 2013. Get registered today at: Creative.adobe.com.

Adobe MAX 2013: The fun begins

2013-05-06T15:18:00+01:00

After a somewhat rubbish sleep (I'm not great with jet lag) in a lovely hotel room in Downtown LA, I met some fellow journalists in the lobby to enjoy a day of sightseeing pre-Adobe MAX. Hosted by the very professional Head of Communications for Adobe UK Emma Wilkinson, we also had Ashleigh Allsopp from Digital Arts magazine, Emily Gosling from Design Week and Jodie O'Rourke, a principal engineer at blinkbox. First up was a visit to the venue for Adobe MAX where we had to register for press and receive our information packs. The schedule for Monday and Tuesday is packed, so I'll do my best to keep you posted on the big announcements.

After registering, we then jumped into a taxi and headed straight for the place where everyone would go if they only had one day to enjoy LA - Hollywood! We were talking about Bel Air, having a giggle and somehow erupted into a group rendition of the opening rap to Fresh Prince, as you do - while pointing out local landmarks, like the famous 'Hollywood' sign in the distant hills.

Tumbling out of the cab, straight into the craziness of Hollywood Boulevard - we enjoyed some time wandering up and down the Walk of Fame, picking out celebrities we admired. I'm not usually one for cheesy moments, but I couldn't resist a picture with MJ's star. Mainly in homage to good friend Liz Wilson who is absolutely crazy about him. And then we had to get 'that picture' of the Hollywood sign in the distance.

In good spirits, we hopped onto a tour bus to amble our way down to Santa Monica and Venice Beach, seeing Rodeo Drive, Bel Air and Beverley Hills along the way. The guided tour, which we listened to through individual headsets, offered many giggles and snorts of laughter (I have to stop snorting when I giggle really hard - it's becoming an annoying habit)... Much to the annoyance of the family sat behind me, who were taking it very seriously. "And on this corner, you'll notice a restaurant where Brad Pitt almost bought a sandwich, while over here - Lindsay Lohan is always buying milkshakes..."

After some lunch in Santa Monica, Emma and Jodie had to head back to the hotel - so Ashleigh, Emily and I walked down to the beach for a little more fun. After learning that Baywatch was filmed here, we just had to reenact that famous running scene. Hope we did Pamela and David justice. We of course walked along the Santa Monica pier (did you know Forrest Gump was filmed here - it's the scene where he runs to the end of the pier and turns back again) and also hopped over to Muscle Beach to watch some muscles. Nice. That was yesterday, now I've got to dash as the conference is about to start! And I've got to catch my bus! More to follow!

How to get tough with problem clients

2013-05-04T09:50:00+01:00

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

If you were to ask any freelancer what causes the most stress, it would be problem clients. The kind of clients with high expectations. Some who call too much. Some who don't pay on time. Others who mean well but constantly throw more tasks at a project, rather than just focusing on the ultimate goal. Sometimes, client relationships can break down. You can grow to resent them and lose passion for the work. They might not even be that bad - but juggling many clients all at the same time can prove stressful. Like having lots of different bosses with individual needs and demands.

So how do you fix a client relationship if it's not working anymore? Especially when you don't want to rock the boat and are worried about speaking up? I've thrown together the following issues and solutions to help you get tough and tackle problem clients…

Clients who always chase

For some, there's nothing more demotivating than a client who constantly phones to see where the project is up to. They're not hounding you. It just feels like they are. As soon as that call or email comes through your stress levels go through the roof and instead of being happy to do the work, you've lost all passion for it. Have several clients like this and you really start to feel the pressure.

The Solution: All clients want to feel like they're special and the only client you have. They also just want constant reassurance that you're working on their stuff. This is normal. So to tackle clients who chase, put systems in place to communicate where you're up to. Send a weekly email, listing all the things you've achieved the previous week and what you plan to work on during the next. Hold regular meetings and/or conference calls. Keep them in the loop and they'll stay happy, and more importantly - you can get on with the work.

Clients who always come up with wild ideas

Ideas are a good thing. Talking about them always leads to better ideas. Sometimes, clients come up with ideas that won't work at all. Wild ideas that don't have any place or logic and only detract attention away from the task at hand.

The Solution: This is where you truly act as a consultant and share your expertise. If a client throws an idea at you that you don't think will work, speak up! But be prepared to explain why and offer alternative ideas. Clients often just need to be led in the right direction.

Clients who keep trying to get more for their money

You've agreed a set price, they signed off on your proposal - so why do they keep trying to add more workload to the project? If you're not careful, you'll exceed the time you budgeted and you'll end up doing loads of extra work for free.

The Solution: Be tough, speak up and explain professionally that - yes of course you can do more, it'll just cost more. Remind the client that they hire you based on time. Put the ball in their court by asking if they'd like you to put together a separate quote. It's then up to them if they want to pay for the work. It's a clever, diplomatic way of keeping budgets on track.

Clients who keep shifting the goal posts

You're halfway through a project when your client throws a curve ball. 'I've changed my mind!' They'll exclaim. 'Could we do this instead?' Whilst it's not an issue changing the project, what they can't expect is that you won't get paid for the time you've already put in.

The Solution: Invoice the client for the time you've already put in to the project, and explain that future work will have to be quoted separately. If they're not happy about this, show them your time sheets to demonstrate what you've done. If that still doesn't work, you'll know that next time you should charge 50% of the project cost upfront and make clear that work won't begin until this has been paid, and that it won't be refunded if the project is changed or cancelled.

Clients who don't pay on time

One month of late payment is ok. Two months, it's getting tedious. When it's been a monthly pattern for a year? Well, frankly you've had enough of working for a client that doesn't pay on time.

The Solution: It's always difficult bringing up the subject of late invoices. You don't want to damage the relationship further, so it has to be approached gently. My advice? Be honest! Bring it up next time you speak to your client but keep it light and friendly. Ask if there's any issue with cash flow and whether there's anything you can do to help. Nine times out of 10, the client will be apologetic and willing to reach a solution. But if you're still having trouble? Hire someone else to chase invoices each month.

Clients who always expect more

You're doing absolutely everything you can to impress your client but they always want more. You're helping to make their business a success but it's not good enough. They think by pushing and pushing you, they'll get the absolute very last drop of creativity out of you. It's killing you!

The Solution: Combat high expectations by beating clients at their game. Go beyond the call of duty by coming up with fresh ideas to really impress. Think you can build a cool app that will boost their online presence? Suggest it! Found a new social network tool to better market their business? Share it! Do everything you can to show that you care deeply about the client doing well. And hey! You might be able to get more work out of them.

Creative Cities: Cardiff

2013-05-03T14:30:00+01:00

The beautiful Cardiff city skyline. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

So what's Cardiff all about?

Beautiful Cardiff has everything a creative could possibly want from a growing, liveable city. It's by the sea. It's very friendly. And there's an incredible amount of creativity going on everywhere you look. The capital and largest city in Wales, it's the 10th largest city in the whole of the UK and is part of the historic county of Glamorgan.

Cardiff Bay at night. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

A small town until the 19th century, it became a major port for the transport of coal following the arrival of the industry in the area, which led to its status as a major city today. Since the 1990s there has been significant investment and development in Cardiff. There's a stunning new waterfront area at Cardiff Bay where the Senedd building proudly sits - home of the Welsh Assembly and the Wales Millennium Centre. And further developments are underway throughout Cardiff, including the Cardiff International Sports Village and a new business district in the city centre.

Cardiff looking south. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

Speaking of the creative industries, Cardiff is the UK's largest media centre outside of London and is home to BBC Wales, S4C and ITV Wales. There is also an independent TV production industry of over 600 firms, employing around 6,000 people and contributing £350million to the local economy. Did you know Doctor Who and Casualty are filmed here! It's all because of the BBC's purpose-built drama village called Roath Lock.

The 170,000 sq ft BBC Roath Lock studios

How the Centre for Creative Industries will look once complete

Then you have the new £6million Centre for the Creative Industries, a 40,000 sq ft centre which will create a hub for Wales' creative industries once its built. Exciting!

On doing my research, I've discovered that although Cardiff has a beating heart of creativity at its very core and there's a real passion and sense of local pride from its creative community - there is some way to go before it reaches its full potential. This isn't the fault of local creatives or businesses... and the city is doing everything it possibly can to thrive and grow.

Cardiff Castle. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

Yes, the local media sector is booming, there's definitely a strong mixture of freelancers and, I'm glad to report, a growing startup scene. But from talking to local creatives I get the sense that the creative industries could do with a little more support from the powers that be. But we'll come to that in a minute. For now beautiful Cardiff, it's over to you…

What Cardiff creatives say

"Cardiff is a great place to live, it's near the sea, it's near the mountains, it's a (small) capital city. There are a large number of creative people including artists, musicians and people who invest a lot of their own time and energy in getting things done. Art wise, G39 and Chapter provide support and exhibitions, with lots of other successful and not so successful initiatives popping up on a regular basis. The Cardiff Art Map features most of them. It's a little bit insular at times, and needs to get out there and be a bit more confident and brassy, but hey, who doesn't!"
Gordon Dalton, artist at Mermaid & Monster

"As a local born and bred, I've seen a lot of changes for the better over the years. Cardiff is creative, welcoming and friendly, and displays a drive to do things well and do things differently, reflecting Cardiff's own uniqueness, and the fact it's a young city, and a small one, with big ideas. It's an exciting place to be with a dynamism and momentum of a youthful city on a big adventure thanks to its unique position as the capital and first city of Wales. This is reflected in its politics and the discussions underway to plan for its physical and economic growth over the next 50 years, and likewise it's represented by a growing creative scene."
Christian Amodeo, founder of - I Loves The 'Diff

"Cardiff's music scene has undergone some massive changes in the past five years. Some great venues, like the Millennium Music Hall, have closed down. Clwb ifor Bach, one of Cardiff's top venues, was rumoured to be going under. The live music scene seemed to be getting smaller and smaller - more elitist, more hidden and more expensive. But somehow Cardiff has managed to keep a few gems. Venues like Gwdi Hw, Buffalo Bar and Moon Club continue to put on a huge array of fantastic local talent and some familiar non-local names too. These nights come courtesy of Jealous Lovers Club, Negative Panda, Full Fat and Bluebox. The hardworking promotion companies seem to be keeping Cardiffs music scene and its venues alive. As a Cardiff based band, we owe them an arm and a leg."
Michael Nash, from the local band Wicket

"Cardiff is a great place to work and live, but it does seem to be currently lacking in tech startups especially when compared with nearby places like Bristol. One thing it does have is some great people who are passionate and creative, hopefully over the next year or so we will start to see more small startups being either funded or bootstrapped around the area."
Scott Sherwood, startup founder of www.testlodge.com

Where to study in Cardiff

Cardiff is spoilt for choice when it comes to higher education with over 43,000 students calling the city home. It has four major universities, including Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, University of South Wales and the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama.

Cardiff University's main beautiful building

The University of Glamorgan's Cardiff campus, known as Atrium, is where the Cardiff School of Creative & Cultural Industries is located in the city centre. And Cardiff Met is home to the Cardiff School of Art & Design. Cardiff also has two further education colleges: Cardiff and Vale College and St. David's College.

Cardiff's startup scene

There's some debate that Cardiff hasn't reached its full potential when it comes to creating a startup culture here. Lack of investors, not enough supportive nurturing and the digital stronghold of nearby Bristol (and London) probably all play a part, taking local talent away. But things are starting to happen.

Neil Cocker, founder of DizzyJam, an e-commerce and merchandising platform for the music industry, is one passionate local creative who is doing a lot to champion local startups. He recently went to 10 Downing Street to meet Joanna Shields, CEO of Tech City, to discuss the state of the regional start-up scene.

Neil has also just launched Cardiff Start - a group for entrepreneurs, startup founders, creatives, students and investors who believe that Cardiff is a great place to work and live. The group offers regular meetups and events, so be sure to keep an eye on its calendar.

Neil Cocker, founder of Cardiff Start - a group for entrepreneurs, startup founders, creatives, students & investors

Neil said: "We already have a tech startup community in Cardiff that is contributing millions of pounds to the local economy. Now is the time to harness it, support it, and make Cardiff a city that is recognised worldwide as a city of innovation, and one that is worth investing in."

Other notable startups to mention include SubHub, which provides the tools for people to profit from their passion by creating easy and affordable membership websites. Event Rater is where feedback from consumers is used to drive quality within the events industry. And there's Lexable, which develops assistive software for people with dyslexia and literacy issues. Their products are used in universities, schools and workspaces across the globe. There's also Bipsync, a Silicon Valley startup who have recently located in Cardiff. And last but not least, Matchalabs.com, a group of well regarded developers / project managers who recently started their own company to produce some popular mobile apps.

For social events, check out UnifiedDiff which is focused towards the developer community and they tend to do a series of talks at each meetup. Or follow @CardiffDevWorks on Twitter. They share workshops aimed at developers and improving skills.

If you're actually thinking about starting a new business that will depend on computer technology for success, you might qualify for funding, business advice or training. Find out more from Communities 2.0.

Where to network in Cardiff

For all-round creativity, you can't go far wrong with Think Ark and their monthly events. Taking place on the last Wednesday of every month, they include workshops, discussions and general networking opportunities.

Ignite Cardiff is a cool, regular event where presenters share their personal and professional passions, using 20 slides to talk for just five minutes. It's also a good place to meet other local creatives. The next one is happening on 15 May 2013.

Ignite Cardiff is a cool, regular event great for networking

For those in the arts who want to know how social media and technology can help them engage with audiences, then ArtsTechCymru is ideal.

If you're a startup or digital lover and you'd like to keep informed of relevant, local events - Startup Digest is a great local resource that lists everything that's happening in Cardiff. Fancy making a few new creative friends? Have a look at Cardiff Read, a thriving local book club that's been around for three years.

Where to work in Cardiff

There currently isn't much in the way of co-working spaces here in Cardiff, but you do have IndyCube, a growing community of co-workers that offers several different workspaces. They're dotted around at various locations throughout south Wales, including one at Cardiff's Castle Quarter and another at Cardiff Bay. Check them out!

IndyCube, a growing community of co-workers

Elsewhere, get in touch with Michelle Davis on Twitter - she's a local creative who is currently working hard to bring more co-working space to Cardiff. Follow her @michelledavis.

Where to hangout in Cardiff

For some essential energy recharging or a chance to meet clients or work remotely away from home, you can't beat the humble coffee shop. Cardiff has got plenty of them. Personally, I'd head over to Coffee 1. They started off in Wood Street back in 2001 and have since branched out all over the place. I'd recommend the venue where it all began, as the coffee is superb. Waterloo Gardens Teahouse is a real gem hidden away over in Waterloo Gardens and recommended by The Independent in its 'Top 50 Coffee Shops in the UK'. The Plan Cafe is also worth a visit.

Pop into the The Plan Cafe for a nice coffee

For some lunch and client entertaining, Cardiff has plenty on its menu. The Brewery Quarter, Mill Lane, St Mary Street and Eastside in St David's all offer a range of cuisines. The Social at the Parc Hotel by Thistle has been awarded 2 AA rosettes. The Corner House is another recommended place to eat. They cook a mean Thai fish curry. For something a little less formal, check out Ed's Easy Diner, all American themed and how we all wish cafes looked when we were teenagers. Or you've got the new Iguanas, a chain Latin American type restaurant but definitely one to consider.

Henry's Cafe Bar in Cardiff. Image courtesy of JMD Photography.

And to enjoy the end of each week, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to pubs, bars and evening entertainment. For a nice traditional pint, skip over to The Goat Major or The Rummer Tavern. For something a bit more wine bar-esque, try Henry's - it's a 'cafe/bar' with an extensive wine and cocktail menu.

Buffalo Bar in Cardiff, always great for a night out

Finally, to let your hair down check out The Old Library and the lively Buffalo Bar - both offer live music events, great cocktails and plenty to keep you happy on a Friday or Saturday night.

What to do in Cardiff

Cardiff is a wonderful cultural city with plenty to keep you entertained and creatively satisfied. First up, if you want entertainment - you simply must visit the iconic Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay. It's the city's most lively performing arts venue and also home to the Welsh National Opera and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. There's always some free lunchtime concerts in the foyer.

Wales Millennium Centre. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

The stately old venue of the New Theatre stages musicals, plays and the city's annual panto. St Davids Hall has a regular programme of music, children's events, dance, comedy and special shows. It's also home to the Welsh Proms. Sherman Cymru is another theatre worth a mention.

The Norwegian Church at Cardiff Bay. Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

The Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay is always hosting live music, mainly in the realm of folk and acoustic. For big arena action with world renowned artists and musicians, then it's either the Millennium Stadium or Motorpoint Arena Cardiff.

Chapter is one of Europe's largest and most dynamic arts centres with cinemas, theatre, exhibition spaces, studios, cafe and award-winning bar. For comedy, head over to The Glee Club at Mermaid Quay.

National Museum of Wales. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.

For some art, you have the wonderful National Museum Cardiff and the Martin Tinney Gallery just across the road. Both are free to enjoy. There's also The Albany Gallery showcasing lots of local artists. For photography lovers, just on the outskirts of Cardiff you'll find Ffotogallery at Turner House, Penarth - the national development agency for photography and lens based media in Wales where they've always got a varied exhibition programme.

Bute Park in Cardiff is a real... beaut!

To enjoy some greenery and break away from Cardiff's hustle and bustle, visit Bute Park & Arboretum - it's an extensive area of beautiful parkland easily accessible from the city centre.

For more ideas on what to do in Cardiff, go to Visit Cardiff. Or check out the website for Cardiff Bay, as they have some of their own suggestions.

A little video about Cardiff

Video Credit: Creative Cardiff, who are aiming to showcase Cardiff's immense creativity

Latest Jobs in Cardiff

Developers in Test and Test Engineers, BBC Future Media, Cardiff
BBC Future Media’s ambition is to create the most valued open digital media services in the world. They want to transform the BBC for an interactive, on-demand world and find new ways of reaching audiences wherever they are, with new formats across PC, TV, mobile devices, gaming platforms (like Xbox), and recorders like TiVo. Its team in Cardiff work in a fast paced agile environment with multidisciplinary teams, consisting of Software Engineers, Web Developers, Developers in Test, Test Engineers, Project Managers, and Product Managers, and work closely with designers and editorial staff... More details on the BBC website.

PHP Developer, Gliw, Cardiff Bay
Gliw is a software development company based in Cardiff building a suite of next-generation web application for the property management industry. They're looking for a versatile and talented PHP developer to join its growing team. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of PHP frameworks and third-party API integration. Working knowledge of Javascript and HTML/CSS are also desirable. They are offering a competitive salary based on experience. This is a full time position at its Cardiff Bay studio. More details on Design Jobs Wales.