Cultural Context  
 


Brian Squires was once described by a work colleague as a kind of a 'Renaissance Man'. When asked why - the colleague commented that he had observed that he was interest in virtually anything he came across ranging across the arts, sciences, philosophy, music, and the obscure - being able to build relationships between them exploring possibilities with great enthusiasm. Brian is interested in anything that makes up the rich tapestry of life - especially if other people are interested in it and are affected by it...

Brian's interest in Culture stems from an awareness that culture subliminally & overtly inspires the direction & equipping of citizens to achieve what may appear to be unheralded cultural objectives. The core of culture is the tension between society and the individual. It is related to citizenship - the sense of belonging - self-worth and self-esteem - distinctiveness & differentiators. It can create an atmosphere of respect and identity or of abuse and unworthiness. It can change current trends - to deliver a better life in a creative community or crush the life out of those that are considered irrelevant individuals. The landscape of cultural expression covers all areas of human activity - some easy to identify and relate to - other areas are more obscure but nevertheless influence our perception and experience of life.

Brian is seeking to understand the history of human endeavours as expressed through our creative activities. This interest in Art History has resulted in a few 'adventures' presenting the history of art within the context of cultural & other developments over the centuries. This could extend into Art Appreciation sessions, given the opportunity, subject and time to research the images/material. He have been a committee member of the Grosvenor Arts Society for a few years; and has been involved in the Chester "Arts for Artsake" group of artist, particularly working on the early stages of feasibility study to establish a Community Arts Centre for Chester.

Brian is now creatively combining the different areas of activity within the ‘discerningways’ ventures, exploring the idea that ‘creativity is a key to wholeness’. A few years ago He organised an arts exhibition called 'CIRCLES @ Hoole' (the day the circle visited Hoole). The objective of the exhibition was to encourage artists & non-artists to be creative around the theme of CIRCLES. There were around 30 contributors with about 65 multi-media exhibits. [more details on Events pages] He have been a committee member of the Grosvenor Arts Society for a few years. and has been involved in the Chester "Arts for Artsake" group of artist, particularly working on the early stages of feasibility study to establish a Community Arts Chentre for Chester. He enjoys all types of music - especially that which is pushing the boundaries at the time that it was being created; plays the guitar and is currently learning the bass guitar.

discerningways
discerningways’ is a venture that seeks to combine creative gifts, computing skills, business experiences, spirituality, and practical living in a way that applies creativity to our life to enrich and encourage wholeness within, which therefore affects the way we behave and what we do. 

discerningarts
The Fine Art area of this venture provides a digitally based Fine Art (Giclee) Printing service to artists, as well as developing & printing my own artwork. Brian also undertake painting & digital commissions.

@ the garrét - is Brian's "actual" studio & office

“Zarabunda Studios” – refers to Brian's Virtual Art Gallery