November first sees the first edition of our new quarterly journal, Acanthus. Thank you to all those who contributed! The process was harder than we thought, but infinitely enjoyable. It is amazing to see the breadth of ideas that a theme can inspire.

Acanthus, our new quarterly journal, launched its first open call for submissions. The theme, earth/air/water, examines the interrelationships between elements and uses them as a metaphor for creative connections across the Mediterranean. The journal is a precursor for a virtual exhibition this winter. 

Summer can feel so long here. For some, that's a joy; warm nights, long days, the intoxicating excitement of summer. But, for me, summer, seems to crush my creativity, my artistic soul languishes in the sultry heat, unable to think, to move, to make. Autumn brings a magic to the world, a beckoning chill which excites my soul. 

This autumn promises dreams coming true and new beginnings. Perhaps too much. Ideas swirling around and around, almost choking me with their impatience. Clambering to be let out, to fly free. But they have to be patient. To wait. The space is a shell. Our plans, our dreams, are simply thoughts. Embryonic, unformed. We are reaching out, to artists, to art lovers, to people who see the world through a lens of beauty, to join with us, work with us, to be part of making this happen. But it's not easy. Sleepless nights, worry, hard work, fear of the future, fear of the present, uncertainty and faltering self belief plague us. It is like being a child who is lost in the forest, alone and afraid. Every shadow could be danger, every snapping of a twig the end of everything. All we have is our dream, and our sheer bloodymindedness that we won't fail. 

At some point in the next few weeks, work will begin on transforming Bloom. The internal walls will come down and we will be left with a blank canvas. In many ways, it is quite daunting. Talking is over; reality is here. While the work goes on, Bloom will be holding an online exhibition over the winter, as a way to introduction our vision. I'll also be posting regularly, to keep people updated on progress and on opportunities for 2022.