Welcome to Flaming June.

Flaming June seems to me an appropriate title for the page this month as we are certainly in June and have been bethed in some glorious fiery sunshine of late. I have always thought "flaming" referred to the intensity of the heat and sun at this time of year until I discovered "Flaming June" is a painting by Frederick Lord Leighton, of a lady reclining in a vividly colored gown. (Circa 1865) For anyone who has the inclination or is short of something to do, look up the picture and see for yourself. I am also informed that the orleander branch in the upper right hand corner symolises the fragile link between sleep and death. A bit grim really but could be a parallel to the dangers of blazing sun and very high temperatures! Please keep coo, protected, well hydrated and enjoy the sunshine safely!

Group activities have recently included an educational evening where some members brought in their work and sought opinions and advice from the group on how to improve their pictures and of which photoshop tools might wor best. Some good tips came, thanks to all involved.

Well done to Bas Montgomery who was presented with a beautifully crafted glass letter rack, an award from Festicolor from Belgium. This was a very nice piece, but hope it doesn't turn up as Moira's next birthday pressie!

Members were encouraged by Tony to begin preparing their paperwork for end of year FIAP applications as it is anticipated there will be quite a deluge of applicants following the recent changes to the criteria. Also, those hoping to receive their PPSA's or stars this year have been reminded of the processes to go through and some members will be attending the PSA conference in Yellowstone this year for their presentations. One will be attending for the adventure! Yippee! Yellowstone park is something to look forward to.

During last years small print circuit, some very memorable and strong Russian prints were picked out, each with it's own impact and message. At the club this week, these were displayed and some Orthodox Russian choral sacred music was played as the group took time to study the images. To many of us, the music intensified the impact of the pictures and was an enhancing experience. I felt this would work well in exhibition settings, and would add to the images, providing the music was carefully chosen. An experience I would love to be repeated.

Thoughts are already on to next yearsGreat British Small Print Circuit following the enormous success of this year. Ideas and plans are already afoot and accreditation will be sought in due course. Members are being asked to commit to roles, so diaries are out and it all feels very exciting again. Watch this space for futher developments.

Don't forget, summertime starts this month, enjoy!