Hey, Wain

but that's enough artistic punning - look out! Here come the Artistic Pun Police! "Evening, Constable".

Via Gromblog, here is an extraordinary progression of cat paintings by Louis Wain, sometime President of the National Cat Club. The poor man came down with late onset schizophrenia, and the effect on his art is astounding. I have to say I like the later work much more than the initial twee victoriana, but I daresay that would have been precious little comfort to him.

Ignore this, it's just a tag: cats
Ignore this, it's just a tag: schizophrenia
Ignore this, it's just a tag: Louis Wain

All Right, All Right, Keep Your Heron

This was the rather unusual sight that greeted me in the back garden when I opened the curtains on Sunday morning:

A bit of head-scratching ensued, but then all became clear, and I got straight on the phone.


AA: "Hello, the Acme Agency, representing the finest theatrical artistes?"

I I-C: "Oh hello, it's Ian Imagined-Community here."

AA: "Oh hello! How are the arrangements for the nativity play coming along?"

I I-C: "Yeah, very well, thank you. I'm particularly pleased with the selection of Nicky Campbell, Charlie Windsor and George W Bush to play against type as the three wise men. Charlie in particular seems keen to play a king. I think we can look forward to seeing gifts of gold, frankincense and, if you will, mirth."

AA: "Yes. You've been reading Private Eye again, haven't you?"

I I-C: "Maybe. Anyway, what I wanted to talk to you about was your suggestion for the slaughterer of the innocents."

AA: "Ah, yes. Fine artiste, imposing presence. We sent him round to call on you this morning for the audition."

I I-C. "Mm-hmm. He's here now. Erm, would you mind double-checking the character's name again?"

AA: "Certainly. Just bear with me... Ah."

Tomorrow, read the exciting account of our conversation with Mohammed Al-Fayed about sponsorship for the play from a famous Knightsbridge department store .
Ignore this, it's just a tag: heron
Ignore this, it's just a tag: King Herod
Ignore this, it's just a tag: Harrods
Ignore this, it's just a tag: Nativity Play

Insomny, Insomnier, Insomniest

Ms Dynamite-E-e's not sleeping. It's like Night of the Living Dead at our house, only without the laughs.


Ignore this, it's just a tag: Night of the Living Dead