top of page
Search

An Evening in Memory of Dubravka Ugrešić


The British Croatian Society, in collaboration with the UCL SSEES Centre for Southeast European Studies, is pleased to invite you to a memorable evening dedicated to the celebrated writer and frequent guest, Dubravka Ugrešić. This event serves as a homage to the literary legacy of this remarkable individual.


Dubravka Ugrešić, an alumna of the University of Zagreb, made her home in Amsterdam from 1996 onwards. Ugrešić was known for her affiliations with Yugoslavia and her extensive background in comparative literature and Russian language. Her career was a unique blend of academia and creative writing, where she authored novels and short story collections. One of her notable works, "Steffie Speck in the Jaws of Life," was published in 1981, while her novel "Fording the Stream of Consciousness" received the prestigious NIN Award in 1988, the highest literary accolade in the former Yugoslavia.


"Museum of Unconditional Surrender," one of her thought-provoking novels, delves into the realms of remembrance and amnesia. The story revolves around a female narrator in post-Wall Berlin, navigating her war-torn homeland of Yugoslavia and interweaving past and present. Ugrešić's "Ministry of Pain" is set in Amsterdam and portrays the lives of displaced individuals. In her novel "Baba Yaga Laid An Egg," she creatively explores the Slavic mythological figure of Baba Yaga to convey a modern fairy tale that tackles societal gender disparities and discrimination.


During the outbreak of the war in 1991 in the former Yugoslavia, Ugrešić bravely took an unequivocal anti-war and anti-nationalist stance. She became a vocal critic of nationalism, war-related ignorance, and criminality, which led to her being targeted by sections of the Croatian media, fellow writers, and public figures. She was unfairly labeled as a "traitor," a "public enemy," and even a "witch." In 1993, due to a prolonged period of public attacks and her inability to endure the pervasive deception in public, political, cultural, and everyday life, she left Croatia. Ugrešić documented her experience of collective nationalist hysteria in her book "The Culture of Lies" and provided insights into her "personal case" in the essay "The Question of Perspective (Karaoke Culture)." Her writing continued to shed light on the darker aspects of contemporary societies, focusing on the homogenization of people influenced by media, politics, religion, shared beliefs, and the market (as seen in "Europe in Sepia").


This event features two distinguished speakers:

  1. Celia Hawkesworth, who served as a senior lecturer of Serbian and Croatian at the School of Slavonic and East European Studies from 1971 to 2002. She boasts an impressive translation portfolio, including works by Slavic authors such as Dubravka Ugrešić's "The Culture of Lies."

  2. Vesna Domany Hardy, an individual with a multifaceted background, having earned an undergraduate degree from Zagreb University and an MA in Art History from London's Goldsmith College. Her career has encompassed teaching, translation, and work in media, making her a versatile contributor to the event.

The discussion will be moderated by Roy Cross, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the British Council, including roles as an English language expert and lecturer at Zagreb University.


This evening promises to be a captivating and enlightening exploration of Dubravka Ugrešić's life and work, offering a unique perspective on her literary contributions and her stand against war and nationalism. Don't miss this special event in her memory.


Date & Time

Wed Oct 25 2023 at 06:00 pm to 08:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

Location

Masaryk room, 16 Taviton Street, London, United Kingdom




Hammerton Halloween Kids Party - An Enchanting Halloween Celebration


Halloween at Hammerton Brewery is back, and it's going to be a spook-tacular time! Get ready for a ghoulishly good gathering featuring fantastic Halloween costumes, music, delicious food, and thrilling party games.


Are you brave enough to join us? Prepare for a morning filled with hauntingly fun music and exciting party games, all hosted by the fabulous Amber Witch. It's a costume extravaganza, and we can't wait to see your creativity shine!


This is our third annual Halloween party at our taproom, and we're going all out. Get ready for some electrifying fun and the chance to win fantastic prizes for the most impressive costumes. Dress to impress!


After the party, parents and kids are invited to stick around for some well-deserved beers and mouthwatering pizzas. It's a perfect way to continue the Halloween festivities with your family.

Please note that availability is limited, so be sure to secure your spot early. We're eagerly anticipating your presence at this thrilling Halloween celebration.


Join us for an unforgettable day of spooky fun and memorable moments. The Hammerton Team can't wait to welcome you!


(Note: Our taproom is conveniently located just one minute away from Caledonian Road & Barnsbury overground station.)


Date & Time

Sun Oct 29 2023 at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (GMT+00:00)

Location

Hammerton Taproom, 149 Roman Way, London, United Kingdom



Halloween Special at Tump 53 Nature Reserve - A Spooktacular Family Afternoon



Get ready for the ultimate Halloween experience during the spookiest season of the year! Join us for a fantastic afternoon of Halloween fun designed for Thamesmead families at the enchanting Tump 53 Nature Reserve.


Calling all witches, vampires, and ghosts of every age! Peabody has teamed up with the local theater group, Ruined Theatre, to bring you a free and utterly spooktacular event at Tump 53 Nature Reserve.


The talented Ruined Theatre team is all set to captivate you with their "Witches Spell Workshop." Dive into a world of magic as you create your very own magic potions and learn to cast spells with a genuine witch. This spellbinding experience is perfect for children aged 3 and above.


But that's not all! After the Witches Spell Workshop, gear up for an exciting scavenger hunt where you'll put your knowledge of seasonal veggies in October to the test. There are prizes up for grabs, so make sure your Halloween spirit is at its peak!

Here's what the afternoon holds:

  • A guided tour or nature walk at Tump 53 starting at 11:45 am.

  • Lunch will be provided between 12:15 pm and 1:00 pm.

  • For Group 1, Ruined Theatre's Witches Spell Workshop takes place from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by a Scavenger Hunt with opportunities to win prizes from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

  • For Group 2, the Scavenger Hunt, with chances to win prizes, will run from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by Ruined Theatre's Witches Spell Workshop from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

This is an event you won't want to miss, and best of all, it's entirely free! Be sure to secure your tickets early.


Please note that no child should attend this event without adult supervision. Since Tump 53 Nature Reserve has open water, all children must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older at all times.


For any inquiries or questions, feel free to reach out to Amy Perlaza at amy.perlaza@peabody.org.uk. Get ready for a Halloween celebration like no other!


Hackney History Talk: Hackney Hauntings - A Spooky Halloween Event!


Step into the eerie world of Hackney's haunted past with the "Hackney Hauntings" event, a spine-tingling Halloween experience you won't want to miss. Join Sue Doe and Lucy Madison as they regale you with ghostly tales of Hackney's history and the mystical world of Dalston spiritualists.


This event coincides with the Friends of Hackney Archives' Annual General Meeting on the eve of All Hallows, a time when the boundary between the living and the supernatural blurs. It's the perfect setting for stories of apparitions, witches, and things that go bump in the night.

Sue Doe and Lucy Madison will lead the Halloween talk after the AGM, which begins at 5:30 pm. The spooky tales start at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome, including non-members of Hackney History (The Friends of Hackney Archives), so mark your calendar for this special Halloween occasion!


Discover the ghostly legends of Hackney, from the oldest domestic house with its myriad of spectral stories, which might have intrigued the likes of Stoke Newington's very own Edgar Allan Poe. Hear about the spiritualists who once called Hackney home, the ghostly nurse at the Mothers Hospital, exorcisms in Stuart times, and the Shoreditch girl whose spirit lingers in her last abode in Yorkshire. Learn about practical individuals who sought reduced rent due to the presence of a ghost, ghost hunts in cemeteries, and the intriguing case of the last woman to be tried as a witch.


The history of Hackney is not just a trick, but a true Halloween treat for all who attend.

If you're interested in becoming a member of Hackney History (the Friends of Hackney Archives), you can find comprehensive details on membership benefits and how to join at hackneyhistory.org.


Don't miss this chance to explore the eerie side of Hackney's history!


Tue Oct 31 2023 at 06:30 pm to 07:30 pm (GMT+00:00)

Location

Hackney Archives, Dalston Square, London, United Kingdom


Halloween Party @ Florence Dock - A Spine-Chilling Spectacle


Greetings, Halloween Enthusiasts! You are cordially invited to the Florence Dock Halloween Party.


Are you prepared to embrace the eerie and unsettling? Halloween is steadily approaching, and we've conjured up a hair-raising event that's bound to send shivers down your spine! Join us for a chillingly good time at our Halloween Party, where the night promises a DJ who will spin haunting beats and Jell-O shots so electrifying, you'll be howling for more.


As the witching hour draws near, don your most imaginative and spine-tingling costumes because we're hosting a costume contest that will reward the most ghostly, creepy, and downright eerie ensembles. Whether you transform into a wicked witch, a blood-curdling vampire, or unleash something entirely unique, parade your frightful finery on our stage and stand a chance to claim some truly spooktacular prizes.


Our skillful DJ will keep the dance floor pulsating with a musical selection that will make your bones quiver. From timeless Halloween classics to the latest chart-toppers, we've got the perfect playlist to accompany your devilish dance moves.


Remember, the most cherished Halloween memories are the ones you create with friends. So, round up your eerie crew and join us for a night of delightfully haunting fun.


We can hardly wait to see all of you adorned in your most frightful finery for an evening of spine-tingling entertainment. Let's unite to make this Halloween an unforgettable one for the records!


Date & Time

Sat Oct 28 2023 at 07:00 pm to 11:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

Location

Folk at Florence Dock, 45 Chatfield Road, London, United Kingdom



Private View: "As Above, So Below" Curated by Camille Joy - An Exploration of Occult and Esoteric Arts

Prepare to embark on a mystical journey as we invite you to the opening of "As Above, So Below," an extraordinary exhibition curated by the artist and entrepreneur, Camille Joy. This captivating showcase unites thirteen talented female artists to shed light on the enigmatic world of occult practices and the essence of being a contemporary witch.


Featured Artists: Hazel Florez, Barbara Fonte, Camilla Hanney, Elena Helfrecht, Tianai Hu, Gaby Jonna, Camille Joy, Katie King, Zoe Pham, Dora Perini, L'oreal Prystaj, Ann Upton, Teri Varhol


Reality is not always as it appears. In the words of Oscar Wilde, "is the mystery of the world in what is visible?" This exhibition provokes thought, encouraging viewers to explore how to infuse magic into the ordinary. Delve into the idea that witchcraft can reconnect us with our physical selves, heightening our senses to such an extent that we appear almost supernatural. Traverse a wide array of artistic mediums, from painting and video art to sculpture and installation, and learn how to truly hear, see, smell, taste, and feel. As we refine our five senses, we may attain the sixth, the intuitive sense.


The exhibition's grand opening coincides with Halloween/Samhain, a mystical time when the veil separating the living and the spiritual world is believed to be at its thinnest. The private view, aptly themed as a "Witches Ball," will transport guests into a realm of enchantment, where magic, art, and the supernatural intertwine. Dressing up is not only encouraged but highly recommended!


Throughout the weekdays, in the gallery's midst, Camille will be crafting chinoiserie panels adorned with mystical creatures infused with occult symbolism. Every Wednesday and Friday from 6-8 pm, evening events will take place, ranging from writing workshops, poetry readings, alchemical meditations, artistic performances, to practical advice on infusing more magic into your own life. Stay updated by following us on our social media platforms listed above and below. We extend an invitation to expand your understanding of existence and embrace your innate magic.


Practical Information: Location: "As Above, So Below" is situated in a former café at 286 Euston Road, with generous support from HYPHA STUDIOS and British Land. For more details, please contact Camille Joy at contact@camillejoy.com. For sales inquiries, kindly reach out to Camille Joy or Mehroz Shaikh at mehroz@sunend.org. For the latest event updates, visit @the_thing_is_wild.


About the Curator: Camille Joy is an artist, entrepreneur, and a lifelong practitioner of witchcraft. Her work revolves around the reconciliation of extremes, deeply explored through her art, writings, and interior designs. To Camille, every space is an altar to something else, but this homage to the other is already an original failure, thus initiating a cyclical process. Her fascination lies in the synapses between our definitions, the stories we weave about our lives, and the elusive notion of objective reality.


Socials: Camillejoy.com @the_thing_is_wild Graphic design by @annupton_


Date & Time

Tue Oct 31 2023 at 06:00 pm to 09:00 pm (GMT+00:00)

Location

Hypha Studios Euston Tower, Unit 3 Euston Tower, London, United Kingdom


Lady W's Halloween Boo Bash - London's Hottest Halloween Soiree




Are you ready for a spine-tingling soirée? Lady Wimbledon is conjuring up an unforgettable Halloween Party at the renowned New York Eats, and you won't want to miss it! One, Two, Boo! Join us as we dive headfirst into a world of Halloween glamour and eccentricity. The Haunted room will be brimming with chic guests donning fabulous and extravagant costumes that are sure to turn heads.

Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing experience. We'll be serving up cocktails that mysteriously smoke and delectable bites that will leave you drooling in anticipation. To keep the party alive, we've got a celebrity DJ and other mesmerizing entertainment acts that will be revealed soon.

But that's not all. We've got fantastic prizes in store for the best 'Halloween fit,' so be sure to bring your A-game and dress to impress!

As a guest, you'll be treated to complimentary drinks and food, including:

  • Welcome Prosecco by Skinny Witch.

  • Wimbledon Brewery Beer.

  • Award-winning SkullX Vodka.

  • Wimbledon Garden Gin.

  • New York Eats' Bespoke Halloween Cocktails.

And if you're feeling a bit peckish, you'll be well taken care of with our party menu bites, available throughout the night. These bites include:

  • Delectable Sliders.

  • Crunchy Mini Tacos.

  • Irresistible Chicken Wings.

  • Fried Mac & Cheese Balls.

  • Beef Fillet Canapés.

  • Succulent Prawn Skewers.

  • Courgette Rolls.

  • Savory Beef on Pancakes.

  • Mouthwatering Mini Brownies.

Please note that we have limited availability with only 100 tickets up for grabs. So, if you want to be part of this exclusive Halloween Party hosted by Lady Wimbledon, it's advisable to secure your ticket early. And the good news is, we've just released Early Bird prices to make your decision even easier.

Join us on Saturday night, October 28th, from 7:30 pm to 11:00 pm at New York Eats, located at 14 Leopold Road, London, SW19 7BD. Don't miss out on the hottest Halloween bash in London! Date & Time

Sat Oct 28 2023 at 07:30 pm to 11:00 pm (GMT+01:00)


Location

New York Eats, 14 Leopold Road, London, United Kingdom


21 views0 comments



As autumn leaves fall and the air turns crisp, the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain comes to life, beckoning us to step into the realm of magic, mystery, and remembrance. Samhain, celebrated from the evening of October 31st to November 1st, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the Celtic New Year. In this blog, we will explore the deep-rooted traditions and modern celebrations of Samhain, inviting you to embrace the spirit of this enchanting holiday.


The Origins of Samhain:

Samhain, pronounced "sow-in," has its roots in Celtic paganism and is an integral part of the Wheel of the Year. This festival celebrates the end of the agricultural year, the final harvest, and the beginning of winter, when the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is believed to be at its thinnest. It is a time to honor the past, connect with ancestors, and prepare for the colder months ahead.


Traditions and Practices:

  1. Honoring Ancestors: A central aspect of Samhain is paying homage to our ancestors. Create an ancestor altar adorned with photographs, mementos, and offerings like candles and favorite foods to invite their presence and guidance.

  2. Bonfires and Fire Rituals: Lighting bonfires or candles is a way to both welcome the return of the sun and protect against malevolent spirits. Some modern celebrations incorporate fire scrying or fire gazing as a form of divination.

  3. Divination: Samhain is a prime time for divination. Tarot readings, scrying (using mirrors, crystals, or water), and other forms of fortune-telling are popular activities during this season.

  4. Costumes: The tradition of wearing costumes during Samhain likely stems from the belief that disguises could help protect individuals from malevolent spirits. Modern Halloween costumes often draw inspiration from this practice.

  5. Feasting: Samhain is a time for communal feasting, where seasonal foods like apples, nuts, and pumpkin are featured. Sharing a meal with loved ones fosters a sense of community and connection.

  6. Pumpkins and Jack-O'-Lanterns: Carving pumpkins into eerie or whimsical faces is a Samhain tradition that has carried over into Halloween. It symbolizes warding off negativity and welcoming the light.

Modern Celebrations:

While Samhain is a pagan festival with deep historical roots, its modern celebrations have evolved. Many people incorporate elements of Samhain into their Halloween festivities, such as decorating with pumpkins and lighting candles. For pagans and witches, it is a sacred time for rituals, spellwork, and connecting with the spiritual world.


Embracing Samhain:

Whether you're a practicing pagan, a curious seeker, or someone who simply enjoys the enchantment of the season, Samhain offers an opportunity to connect with nature, honor your ancestors, and embrace the mysteries of the cosmos. In today's fast-paced world, it's a reminder to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the cycles of life and death. So, light a candle, set an intention, and step into the mystical embrace of Samhain, where the past and future converge in the eternal now.

18 views0 comments


Embarking on a journey into the world of witchcraft can be an exciting and spiritually fulfilling experience. However, the notion that practising witchcraft requires an array of expensive tools and materials is a common misconception. In this blog post, we'll explore how beginner witches can practice their craft on a budget, proving that dedication, intention, and creativity are more valuable than the cost of your tools.


Start with Knowledge:

The foundation of witchcraft is knowledge and understanding. Begin your journey by reading books, articles, and blogs on various aspects of witchcraft. There are many excellent resources available for free at your local library or online. Educating yourself is a crucial, cost-effective first step.


Set Clear Intentions:

A fundamental principle of witchcraft is setting intentions. You don't need expensive crystals or candles to do this. Simply focus your mind and heart on what you desire to manifest or change. Meditation and visualization are free and potent tools for this purpose.


Embrace Nature:

Connecting with nature is at the core of many witchcraft traditions. Spend time in the great outdoors, whether it's a local park or your backyard. Collect leaves, stones, and twigs to use in your practice. Nature's offerings are abundant and free.


DIY Tools:

Many of the tools used in witchcraft can be crafted at home inexpensively. For example:

  • Wand: Craft your wand from a fallen branch or twig.

  • Altar: Set up a simple altar using a small table or a shelf with items from nature, such as leaves, acorns, or seashells.

  • Candles: Plain, unscented candles can be used in various colors for different intentions.

Kitchen Witchery:

Cooking and preparing food is an excellent way to incorporate your craft into daily life. Choose ingredients with intention, stir your dishes clockwise to attract, and counterclockwise to banish. Simple, everyday ingredients can be used for spells and offerings.


Sigils:

Create your own sigils, which are symbols with magical meanings. Design them using paper and pen or digitally. Charge your sigils with intention, and they can be used in various spells and rituals.


Herbal Magic:

Growing your own herbs can be both cost-effective and spiritually enriching. Many herbs can be grown in small pots or on a windowsill, providing a readily available supply for spells, potions, and teas.


Moon Magic:

Lunar cycles are essential in many witchcraft traditions. Observing the moon phases and working with their energies is entirely free. You can perform rituals and spellwork according to the different phases of the moon.


Online Communities:

Join online witchcraft communities and forums. These communities often share knowledge, insights, and support for beginners, all for free. You can learn from experienced practitioners and find resources and ideas for practicing on a budget.


Conclusion:

Witchcraft is a spiritual journey that can be as accessible as you make it. Practising on a budget should never deter anyone from delving into the craft. Remember that your energy, intention, and connection to the natural world are far more valuable than any expensive tools. With creativity and dedication, you can embark on a meaningful and enriching path within the world of witchcraft without breaking the bank.

32 views0 comments
bottom of page