Dr. Ella Hawkins, a Birmingham-based artist and design historian, has found a unique and engaging way to share her academic research with the world. Instead of traditional papers and presentations, Hawkins translates her interests in Shakespeare performance, costume, and material culture into edible art by baking batches of cookies topped with intricate royal icing designs.
Using tiny paintbrushes and a mini projector to aid in tracing intricate imagery, Hawkins spends hours meticulously decorating each cookie. From William Morris’ ornate floral motifs to coastal scenes from English delftware, her creations are both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating. The most challenging designs include minuscule calligraphy and portraits, requiring a high level of skill and precision.
Hawkins first combined baking and research during her undergraduate studies in costume design at the University of Warwick. She began by creating cupcakes inspired by Shakespearean productions, a fun way to reflect on the various design styles she had studied throughout the year. This hobby evolved into a passion project, with Hawkins continuing to create edible replicas of artifacts and objects from museum collections.
One of her notable collaborations is with Milton’s Cottage, a museum located in the country house where John Milton completed his epic poem, “Paradise Lost.” The collection features delicately crafted cookies adorned with typographic titles and signs reminiscent of 17th-century book designs. Hawkins also delves into ancient history with a series of pottery sherds inspired by artifacts from the Ashmolean Museum, using a sgraffito technique to scratch intricate patterns into the royal icing.
Despite her academic achievements, including publishing a book on the topic and serving as a senior lecturer at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Hawkins remains dedicated to her cookie art. Each piece is a labor of love, with the intricate designs and attention to detail reflecting her deep passion for both art and history.
While some of her creations are preserved for talks and events, the majority of Hawkins’ cookies are meant to be enjoyed. Fans can find more of her work on her website and Instagram, where she continues to showcase her unique blend of academic research and edible art. With each cookie, Hawkins invites viewers to savor not only the delicious treat but also the rich history and culture that inspired its creation. “5 Tips for Starting a Successful Business”
Starting a new business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it can also be a daunting task. With so many moving parts and variables to consider, it’s important to be well-prepared and have a solid plan in place. Here are five tips to help you start a successful business:
1. Conduct Market Research: Before launching your business, it’s crucial to conduct thorough market research. This involves gathering information about your target market, competitors, industry trends, and potential customers. By understanding the market and consumer needs, you can tailor your products or services to meet demand and stand out from the competition.
2. Create a Business Plan: A well-thought-out business plan is essential for any new venture. It serves as a roadmap for your business, outlining your goals, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, and more. A solid business plan not only helps you stay focused and organized, but it also serves as a valuable tool for attracting investors and securing financing.
3. Build a Strong Team: Surrounding yourself with a talented and dedicated team is key to the success of your business. Look for individuals who share your vision and values, and who bring complementary skills and expertise to the table. A strong team can help you navigate challenges, brainstorm new ideas, and drive your business forward.
4. Focus on Customer Service: Providing exceptional customer service is essential for building a loyal customer base and growing your business. Make sure to listen to customer feedback, address any issues promptly, and go above and beyond to exceed their expectations. Happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your business to others.
5. Adapt and Evolve: The business landscape is constantly changing, so it’s important to be adaptable and willing to evolve. Stay informed about industry trends, keep an eye on your competitors, and be open to trying new strategies and approaches. By staying flexible and willing to pivot when necessary, you can position your business for long-term success.
Starting a successful business requires careful planning, hard work, and a willingness to learn and adapt. By following these tips and staying focused on your goals, you can increase your chances of building a thriving and sustainable business.
