Reviews

Review 1
Matt Booth Presentation at Salford University

Sat in the Lecture theatre of the University, awaiting speaker Matt Booth. The darkness of this room was getting too much and turning to doodling was the only option to keep me going. Not too long after Mr Booth introduced himself and jumped into his presentation. Instantly from the moment he opened his mouth and said hello, the room lit up and attentions were instantly grasped. Matt’s presence alone was the most enticing thing, stood casual and covered in tattoos, a self employed free lance designer... wow.

Matt Booth had so much to say, with little time to be jotted down. Each slide that placed onto the screen had more of an impact than the previous. Not only does he create the designs, he even builds the tools and software to then create the work. With subtle hints of humour to carry his presentation, every second of his hour long speech was beautifully professional with a nice feeling of being able to relax in his company. I believe the word is charmed, and completely under, Matt Booth had the whole lecture hall in his hand.

Towards the end of the lecture, I was so captured by his story telling ability that time had flown by. On a final note, Matt left us with his contact details and a round of applause soon cast a shadow over the once lit room. Matt Booth truly is inspirational; his delivery to the crowd was very clear and well thought out. If ever the chance comes to see Matt again, definitely wouldn’t be one to miss.

Review Two
Imperial War Museum

Upon entry to the Museum war is instantly thrown into your path, with tanks sat outside on arrival. Perfect photo opportunity for any amateur photographers. With it being a free Exhibition, feel free to choose your own path and go where ever you like. The lights dark and noise very loud, war times are happening right in front of you with the use of projections.

The layout of the Museum itself is brilliant, set out as a timeline, leaving it to the viewer to follow the path. Pieces from each year are featured here, from world wars to political wars. Not only just War itself is here but also terrorism, walking around soon brought to a large piece of twisted metal, as cold as the shiver sent through me. It is in fact a piece from the World Trade Centre, Very surprising.

So many items are to be seen, Vehicles, bombs, weapons, posters and clothing. Feeling submerged into War and feeling as though you could be there it came to an end. A good few hours were spent in there, enjoyable hours at that. No complaints can be made, the price alone is an attraction... FREE!

http://www.iwm.org.uk/


Review 3
Cinderella - Manchester Opera House

Just like clockwork when seven struck the lights dimmed and a heavy loud voice enticed everyone. From what seemed deep and loud soon turned a 180 degree and Louie Spence spun out onto the stage. The much loved character from sky1’s ‘Pineapple Dance Studios’ soon got the crowd’s attention throwing his infamous moves across the stage. Introducing the show and the other characters involved too, the lovely Susan Shaw as Cinderella and tam Ryan as the much loved cheeky character Buttons. Back by popular demand Ryan has returned to the role for a second year running. Of course Spence would be Dandini, the servant to the Prince, a slightly outrageous character but so well suited and typically brilliant.

‘Alright Chucky Eggs’... ‘Sorted!’ in the most Manchester accent possible Buttons comes on stage, this is how he always came on stage keeping maximum crowd interaction at all times. On the same par was the two ugly sisters, always moaning and calling the crowd at every chance. Children and adults would all retaliate and call them back, not having much beauty to offer and nice personalities they were a great part to the show.

The show was on for a couple of hours and really didn’t disappoint, this children’s tale with a few 21st century twists on it really pulled the whole audience in, no matter on the age or gender. Guaranteed it will tickle any fancies, a great cast  and even better script, involvement from the stage to the crowd nobody is missed out. 


Review 4
Visit to Pentagram Design Agency


People say excitement is the best emotion and the most energising. This surely is correct, the plan was to visit Pentagram Design Agency, located in Notting Hill whilst stopping over in London.


Of course to get there was a job for the London Underground tube system. After several stops and a short walk, the location had been reached. at around 4:20pm with this enough daylight we could see the agency clearly.


The architecture of the building alone was mind blowing. Tiredness and aches soon disappeared. That feeling of excitement covered everything and replaced with butterflies as to what my eyes were opened up to. 


On first entrance, a young lady by the name of Leah Speakman came and greeted us. Stood together in a foyer, the sense of amazement was just stunning. Questions were just bouncing around the head with interest taking control.


Not long after, the man is question Mr Dominic Lippa came down the stairs and introduced himself us all, with such a great class about him I instantly became relaxed and more at ease.


Leah began to take us around on a tour of the building giving us all the details on the history of the agency... and what a description it was.


The full guided tour ended with us all venturing into the main office meeting room, quite like a big board room. There a partner in the worlds biggest agency was setting out chairs for students. Again, such class and mannerisms not putting himself ahead of anyone.


The presentation given to us was simply the best thing on screen I have ever seen, each slide on equal par with the last. Well known imagery onto the screen from Lippa's own personal Portfolio.


The presentation ended but the conversation didn't, thankfully. If anything it became more informative and so much more personal chatting for a good while.... 'But please don't send in all these messages'. Good humoured, a brilliant chat brought to an end with a round of well deserved applause for both, Miss Leah Speakman and Mr Dominic Lippa.


http://www.pentagram.com/work/#/all/all/newest/


Review 5
Visit to the Louvre


Whilst on a recent trip to Paris with the course, a visit to the Louvre was in order. Walking to the destination, crossing the famous padlock bridge really sets the mood for the beautiful artistic scenery.


Upon arrival the sheer size is tremendous, each pyramid bigger than the last, made from perfect glass segments to construct the great architectural design. The heat of the sun beaming through the rather thick winter wear is only beaten by the sheer heat of the gallery itself, with the sun being magnified through the glass above.


Everywhere possible look sits a piece of work by a world famous artist, impossible to get out of sight. Moving around isn't the easiest thing in the world but that adds to the adventure, forcing the way to view the piece of art you want.


The Mona Lisa obviously springs to mind first, and thats what was done, quite a journey to be done but very worth it, along with the journey to Paris too, so make a holiday of it.