The beginning of May is always special, marking the transition from Spring to Summer. Everyone is ready for sunshine by the sea and summery vibes. Look out for what is happening locally.
Quintessence – 10th May until 26th May – Box Gallery – Southsea
The Box Gallery has its first exhibition this month. Step into the world of ‘Quintessence,’ where three excellent artists invite you on a journey of emotive exploration through a captivating blend of brass, ceramic, silver, copper, and charcoal creations. Meet Donna Benton, Samantha English and emerging sculptor Suzie Edwards. ‘Quintessence’ beckons you to immerse yourself in the profound beauty of their latest works, each piece a testament to the quintessential essence of their artistic vision.
Back To Black 11th May 7pm – No6 Cinema – Historic Dockyard
The extraordinary story of Amy Winehouse’s early rise to fame from her early days in Camden through the making of her groundbreaking album, Back to Black that catapulted Winehouse to global fame. Told through Amy’s eyes and inspired by her deeply personal lyrics, the film explores and embraces the many layers of the iconic artist and the tumultuous love story at the center of one of the most legendary albums of all time.
Comic Con – Sat 11th May and 12th May – Portsmouth Guildhall
Portsmouth Comic Con – International Festival of Comics is heading back for a spectacular comic extravaganza on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May at Portsmouth Guildhall. The events and attractions will appeal to all ages as the biggest family-friendly Comic Con of its kind makes its return with immersive experiences, stars of the film, media and TV, an international line-up of some the greatest writers and illustrators in the industry, alongside cosplay parades, interactive fun, panellists and much more.
Exciting features will be the Strangely Marvelous Wizarding Walk-Through, where you can enter Platform 9¾ and the wizarding world of Harry Potter, visit the home of Stranger Things’ Byers family, and explore the Marvel Universe in a mesmerising experience unlike any other, complete with astonishing photo opportunities and thrilling surprises.
The force will be strong in what is set to be the Con’s biggest experience to date dedicated to the fabled space phenomenon, Star Wars! In a fully immersive experience, you will be able to explore a galaxy far, far away complete with scene set ups, character interaction, photo opportunities, family craft activities, and a live stage featuring a continuous programme of talks, demos and Q&A sessions.
With celebrations of the Ghostbusters’ 40th Anniversary too it is set to be a fabulous weekend.
Live Jazz – Sunday 12th May – Clubhouse – Southsea Common
Drop into the Clubhouse which do lovely food and drinks from 1pm and enjoy an afternoon of Jazz while dreaming of sunny days, we might just be in luck you know!
Corella – 7pm Onwards 12th May – Live at the Wedgewood Rooms – Southsea
Manchester’s CORELLA is hitting Southsea celebrating their debut album ‘Once Upon A Weekend’ and headline tour. The 4 piece indie quartet bring an infectious energy, blending tropical indie-pop tones full of energy and a summery vibe quite similar to Viola Beach. Read more about them here.
Pop Up Ceramic Show Fri 17th May – Sun 19th May – Corner Collective – Albert Road
The Corner Collective Gallery is hosting its inaugural ceramics exhibition with 14 members from the Southern Ceramic Group. The SCG formed nearly 50 years ago when a group of makers wanted to share their intense passion for creating in clay.
A diverse range of ceramic work will be available including sculptural, functional and fine art ceramics exploring a wide range of clays, glazes and firings such as Raku, smoke-fired, gas and electric.
Norman Jay’s Norman Soul -18th May – Staggeringly Good Brewery
Get ready for a thrilling musical journey as legendary DJ Norman Jay MBE embarks on his first ever “NORMAN SOUL” tour across the UK this Spring.
Join Norman as he delves deeply into his personal exploration and take on Northern Soul, bringing a unique blend of black music styles from the 1960s to the present day.
Aspex Gallery Friday Late – 24th May -6pm until 9pm
Friday nights never looked so good! This late-night social gives you a chance to enjoy art after dark and immerse yourself in culture and creativity.
At May’s Late, explore the current exhibition ‘Sorry I’m Not Sorry’ By Lauren Joy Kennett, a show that uses photography and collage to illustrate the artist’s personal journey of self-discovery and experience of undiagnosed autism.
There will also be a Dj set and live visuals from @one000plateaus VJ collective. You can get a drink from the bar and mingle!
Featured Image – Sue Robbins – Ceramicist SCG Group