12 Aesthetica Welcome

Inside this issue

26 Mechanical Couture

34

The Image & The Maker ditor’s note

22

New Architectures & Social Engagement

30 Real Nature, Artificial Worlds

Paradoxically, everything comes alive in October. From digital art, media and film festivals to the barrage of art fairs, if you’re looking to capture some new ideas, now is the time. The past few months have seen yet another upheaval, while the full impact of the change in government in the UK has yet to be realised, it’s important to remember that we do have choices. I said it throughout the recession, and so I’ll say it again; in times of uncertainty, it’s important to remember your potential. It’s amazing what can be achieved in the face of adversity.

This issue begins with Small Scale, Big Change, a survey of 11 architectural projects that redress the debate between architecture and society. Exploring the idea of the unique in Mechanical Couture, designers are re-engaging with mechanical reproduction. British photographer, Neeta Madahar, creates beautiful images that contemplate the genre. This is juxtaposed with newcomer, Rebecca Handler, whose work embraces new technologies, raising questions around contemporary image-making.

In film, Clio Barnard explores the life of playwright, Andrea Dunbar in her groundbreaking film, The Arbor. While Elliot Grove, founder of Raindance Film Festival offers 10 compelling tips on zero budget filmmaking from story and sound to actors and location. In music, The Hundred in the Hands, New York City’s latest export, discuss influences and synth-pop. We also engage in the debate surrounding vinyl – is it in or out? Writer, Salvatore Scibona’s vividly real book, The End examines heritage and immigration, while Polly Samson offers a taster from her new collection, Perfect Lives. In theatre, The Thrill of It All fuses dance and drama, but we’re not talking musicals here. Finally, Lorenzo Fusi, curator of the Liverpool Biennial discusses this year’s programme.

This issue combines the best from across the spectrum of the art world, engaging with new ideas, concepts and opens up the forum for debate on the wider issues raised. Enjoy.

Cherie Federico

Aesthetica 13