Cover of The Scribe 3rd Edition

The Scribe: 3rd Edition

May 2024 · Ohio's Nonprofit Arts Newspaper
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Slice of Humor

Continued from pg. 1 anybody else in the kitchen.

Could you share

some memorable reactions or experiences from customers who have ordered your cakes?

I get lots of reaction videos of people laughing, and those always make me happy! Since I've gotten more of a following, I have seen some people who get excited just by the sight of my signature black cake boxes with my logo sticker on top. That's humbling and amazing.

Which of your cake

designs was the most popular? Did it cause you to suddenly gain a following?

When the Barbie movie trailer dropped late last spring and I heard the line "Do you guys ever think about dying?" I knew I had to stop everything I was doing and put it on a cake immediately. I really felt like Greta Gerwig wrote the line for me,

personally. It was a gift. I created a hot pink cake covered in sparkly silver star sprinkles with that written on top. It went viral, got reposted by thousands of people, became inspiration for other cakers, and even drew the attention of the official Barbie account. I've been asked to recreate it several times since. The design also led to a collaboration with Cleveland-based pop culture accessories shop Charlie Girl, who illustrated my design and put it on earrings, keychains, and stickers. Those products sold out so quickly! It still blows my mind that people are out in the world wearing my cake.

What would you say

to other artists who want to start a business using their artistic talent?

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. This is such a tough time to try to start any sort of business. ECC started as an art project first and

foremost and has expanded at a nice pace, but I didn't launch the project with money in mind. I've held onto my day job. It sucks, but you have to acknowledge the realities of capitalism or else they will hold you down and suck your creativity dry. If I had to rely on baking to pay all of my bills from the jump, I would have become a soulless cake factory churning out things I don't care about.

This may be a

common question, but do you offer normal cakes as well?

Yes!! In fact, most of the cakes I make are "normal." The ones featured most prominently on my Insta and FB profiles just happen to be what gels with my artistic POV, but I truly will write whatever a client wants on top of their cake. Some say "Happy Birthday," some say "Congrats on the Divorce," and some say nothing at

all.

A cute cake decorated with characters from Hayao Miyazaki's film

My Neighbor Totoro.

design and some maraschino cherries on top. I love making cakes so much, and I love drawing from true vintage references (my huge collection of Wilton cake decorating books from the '60s, '70s, and '80s). Not every cake is an angsty or silly Existential Crisis Cakes original, it's just a bonus if someone wants one of those.

Any upcoming

specials our readers should know about?

I'm currently booking

custom cakes for May, June, and July! Sometimes dates book far in advance too, so if anyone is curious about booking with me for their special event they should get in touch with me ASAP to secure their spot.

We thank Britta for her time, and wanting to be included in our paper. For those that wish to make an order now or in the future, send an email to Britta's main email:

existentialcrisiscakes@ gmail.com. You can also make orders through Instagram and Facebook @existentialcrisiscakes

Be sure to be patient and give her time to work with you and complete your order! To check out Existential Crisis Cakes, scan the QR code below!

A close-up of a cake decorated to resemble a forest scene from My Neighbor Totoro, featuring chocolate frosting trees, green frosting foliage, and small figures of Totoro and a smaller creature, along with red and white mushroom decorations.

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Murder Mystery Novel Series

By Jeffrey Darah

In this edition of The Scribe, we interviewed an accomplished author who goes by the name A.J. Matthews. A.J. has published 15 novels, but is mainly focused on the murder mystery novel series following the character Veronica Nash. Just a heads up for those looking to get started in the series, there is some graphic romance!

How do you approach creating characters and developing their relationships in your stories?

All characters have a voice. The best thing an author can do is to write and ‘listen’ to what they say. Most times a character will surprise you as hidden sides to their personality emerge during the writing process. Quite often a minor character will turn out to be much more interesting than the one you have in mind for the primary role.

Can you share any memorable reviews or interactions you’ve had regarding your books?

One of my favorite reviews for the first Veronica Nash murder-mystery novel A Dangerous Quality came from a favorite author, which gave me a real squee! moment. She wrote... An absolutely gorgeous book - and more to the point, it’s FUN. Beautifully written, entertaining, and fun. ~ M J Logue, author of the Red Horse series of historical novels.

Could you share some tips for aspiring writers who are interested in exploring the murder-mystery genre?

The old adage ‘butt on chair, fingers on keyboard’ is the best advice I can give. Most authors I know are terrible procrastinators, but really, nothing will get done without actually making time to write.

How do you balance writing novels with other aspects of your life?

I’m lucky as I write full time, and can pretty much tailor my day around my writing.

Can you describe your typical writing process, from idea generation to final manuscript?

Much of what I write is based on historical incidents, particularly my Veronica Nash murder-mystery series set in the 1920s. Ideas spring from something I read or a photo or other image from the time. Once the manuscript is done—or at least reaches the point when I say ‘Enough! Out the door with you!’ — I send it to my publisher for approval. My editor and me then go through the manuscript, correct any errors, and then it goes to the chief editor for the final okay before publishing.

Are there any particular authors or books that have influenced your writing style or approach?

There are many authors I admire, but murder-mystery authors Deborah Crombie and Lindsey Davis, and historical novelist M J Logue are my favorites.

Can you share any details about your current or upcoming projects that your readers can look forward to?

My current work-in-progress is the ninth Veronica Nash novel, set during the British General Strike of 1926. It was a strange time in the country, with all kinds of upsets, actions and reactions from government, public and unions alike. My sleuths have to negotiate the maze of unrest to find a killer and unmask a conspiracy.

We thank A.J. Matthews for reaching out! To grab the first Veronica Nash book, check the QR code below!

A woman in 1920s attire, holding a cigarette holder, with the title "A DANGEROUS QUALITY" and author "VERONICA NASH MURDER MYSTERIES 1 A.J. MATTHEWS" superimposed.

A QR code.
A QR code.

Cover of the first Veronica Nash book

It doesn’t have to be a set routine, or a target of X number of words written per day. Just write something. Another tip would be to never edit as you go. It kills momentum and that leads to frustration which leads to abandoning the work.

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Sleep When They Sleep

Sleep When They Sleep is a poetry collection illustrating the strange, infuriating and precious process of becoming a mother. The collection explores the messy, tender and often unspoken parts of pregnancy, postpartum and new motherhood.

Copies are now available at candicebedard.com

Birth

The first time I heard you my body knew relief.

The first time I saw you my mind buried all reason.

The first time I held you my humanity sprouted outside my skin.

RD Ceramics - Best Place to Get A New Mug

Ryan Durbin, owner of RD Ceramics, began his journey into functional pottery in 2007 during high school in Louisville, KY. Despite being a full-time website developer in Cincinnati, Ohio, Ryan has always pursued his passion for creating practical and functional artwork in his spare time.

He has honed his skills through learning at various clay studios and studying ceramics at Northern Kentucky University. In 2016, Ryan took the plunge and began selling his artwork to the public. In his words, Ryan characterizes his ceramics as “simple, lightweight, comfortable.” He utilizes a wide selection of colorful glazes, and also produces dishes, plates, pitchers, vases, and bowls, in addition to mugs!

All of Ryan’s ceramics are food, dishwasher, & microwave safe, so they are perfect for repeated use.

Ryan does not take orders on his own website, and instead mainly sells on Etsy. You can use the QR Code below to go to it and make your first order!

Ryan also offers a wholesale option as well, if you are interested in stocking his wares in your own shop.

He also runs an enjoyable Instagram page too: @rdceramics

Ryan’s “mug shelf” which contains one hundred different handmade mugs, cups and vases. (We counted!)

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May's Notable Event Calendar

May 1

ARToledo Emerging Artist Exhibition

May 3rd

A Lecture with Annabelle Ténèze

On 4 Female Artists from the 1960's, 7:00-8:00PM, Glass Pavilion

Artist Reception: James Dickerson

May 3rd

The Mix 2024

May 3rd

Bird Song Exhibition

May 4th

Toledo Women's Art League Spring Art Show

May 5th

Cinco de Mayo Celebration

May 6th

Monday Morning Painters

May 6th

Photo Banquet

Meet Children's Author A. Kidd

May 10th

Tragic Destiny Concert

You've Got a Book in You

May 13th

A Season on the Wind Concert

Chalk Paint and Nature Hunt

May 16th

Annual Art Book Sale

Create Now

May 17th

TC Acrylics Paint Pouring Class

May 19th

Workshop: Pastels and Portraits

May 19th

Consonant Conversations Concert

May 20th

Sound Bath with Singing Bowls

May 23rd

Authors! with Tom Seeman

May 24th

Knitting and Crochet Group

May 28th

Writer's Shop: Poetry Series

May 31

Mahler Symphony No. 9

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Photography Spotlight: Colin Mortemore

Two hands with rings, one reaching out, submerged in dark blue water with light rays.

Colin shares his appreciation for calm and comforting scenes with soft lighting.

@colinmortemore

Instagram & Medium.com

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Art by Tracy Mossing

[email protected]

A painting of a woman from behind with large monarch butterfly wings.

"One of my favorite and most personal pieces is my “butterfly” painting. I’ve always liked the quote “Just when the caterpillar thought its life was over, it became a butterfly”. And I created this painting as I was coming out of a heartbreak and I was being transformed by the experience, so that one has a lot of meaning for me.”

"I started painting around the time of the pandemic. It started with going to a couple of those “wine and canvas” parties and I became aware of how therapeutic it felt for me to create. So I started watching a few YouTube tutorials on acrylic painting, and I bought some supplies for home and I started practicing different techniques I’d seen on the tutorial videos.”

"I typically like to paint landscape settings, I think because being around nature is calming for me. Also I’ve found it’s like a form of escape from every day reality. Sometimes it’s the moon and stars that I want to escape to, sometimes it’s the beach, or dreamscapes with fluffy clouds. My paintings help me get out of my head and it can be very therapeutic for me, and that is why I do it. It also feels good to create beautiful, colorful things.”

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Introducing The Artist Fund & Gift Boxes

By Jeffrey Darah

Here at The Scribe, we have been working behind the scenes to set up something very special for the creators of Ohio. Together, we have created the Artist Fund, which is a monetary fund that will be directly supporting local artists!

All donations will have a percent allocated to the Fund, but you may also directly donate to the Fund if you wish. Donations sent in normally go to support the paper and the time involved with the creation and delivery.

However, all money sent into the Artist Fund is only used to pay the creators involved with the paper. Each month, the accumulated amount in the Fund will be dispersed to those artists, authors, and more, equally. Payments of this nature will be in the form of gifts, and will vary in amount. The end goal here is to provide those who have submitted content to this paper, to actually be paid for their efforts. As a nonprofit, our success means greater success for you. Eventually I personally would like to see several hundred dollars sent to each contributor, so they can continue to pursue their passion.

Do you have to be an artist to submit content to us?

Not to worry, you do not specifically have to have created art of some kind to still be involved. Are you passionate about something in the arts field? Do you run an arts nonprofit yourself? Are you involved in a cool art-related project? Get in touch with us anyways, we'd love to learn about what you're doing and your vision.

Who specifically is allowed to submit content to The Scribe?

Those who are currently living in Ohio, or were born in Ohio, are eligible to submit content to The Scribe. In general, we will perform due diligence to ensure this is true for all submissions. If you were already involved with The Scribe, please allow at least a one month gap to work with us again, as we would like to give everyone else an opportunity.

Do you make something small that you want to share?

This is also something we would like to work towards accomplishing as well. Monthly donations of over $20 will be eligible to receive gift boxes each month, containing the latest copy of The Scribe, along with other publications and works. Once we have everything solidified, The Scribe will have a network that Ohio artists can tap into and share their artwork and info with thousands of people.

What else can be shared in the gift boxes?

Along with your artistic creation being shared, we also will include information about you, your work, your portfolio, and anything else you would like to share with our readers.

Did you know, you can make money submitting good content to The Scribe? Whether you're an artist, writer, poet, photographer... we want you!

This will provide donors with a very professional introduction to your work, and possibly get you a new fan. Your work will be presented as beautifully as possible, and donors get a box full of goodies from local artists each month.

What's not to like? If you're interested, keep submitting content to us using our email, [email protected], and we will work with you to showcase your completed work!

Get Paid Through The Scribe!

To be eligible to receive payment for contributing to us:

As long as you meet the above requirements, you are eligible to receive payments from us. Contributors like you are the lifeblood of the paper, and it wouldn't exist without you!

A stylized green logo resembling an umbrella with a starburst pattern inside.
A stylized green logo resembling an umbrella with a starburst pattern inside.
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The Five Senses in Writing

Sight

Smell

Sound

Taste

Touch

Why Incorporate Senses?

Writing with the five senses can help bring your story to life and engage your audience!

By creating an immersive experience, the reader can more easily imagine and connect themselves with what they are reading, aiding the impact of your content with only a few added details.

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Toledo's Glass Pavilion

A wide shot of the Toledo Museum of Art's Glass Pavilion, a modern building with extensive glass walls, set against a blue sky with some trees and a sculpture in the foreground.

By Andrew Puppos

If you're in Downtown Toledo, it's always worth visiting the Toledo Museum of Art. The Greek Revival building hosts an impressive collection, and the Center for the Visual Arts next door was designed by world renowned architect Frank Ghery. But across the street, paying quiet homage to Toledo's history as "The Glass City," is the Glass Pavilion. Designed by the Japanese architecture firm SANAA, the building is designed to house both the museum's extensive glass collection and glass-making hot shops. Completed in 2006, the pavilion sits unassuming across from the grand Neoclassical main building. Deceptively simple, it embodies the principles of so much of SANAA's work - collecting and democratizing spaces, and blurring the line between inside and out. Transparency and light are driving forces in SANAA's portfolio. At the New Museum in New York, aluminum mesh and glass walls dissolve the boundary between street and museum. Grace Farms, in Connecticut, lightly touches into the landscape, little more than a sinuous roof connecting airy pavilions. They utilize this same sort of transparency at the Glass Pavilion, where each curved room is surrounded entirely by floor to ceiling glass panels. The separation between the galleries, the courtyards that penetrate the roof, and the old oak grove outside are blurred by the seamless visual transition between inside and out. Like many of their other projects, natural light and views are universal and undiscriminating, the sun shining in from all sides of the building, eschewing any obvious hierarchy.

The Glass Pavilion's exterior - By Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0 Deed)

From the Rolex Learning Center to the Sydney Modern Museum, SANAA's projects often embody the concept of a diverse assemblage of spaces connected by some unifying architectural language. At Grace Farms, pavilions of various programming are connected by the undulating roof. The Glass Pavilion centralizes all of these spaces, collecting them under a rectangular roof that appears to hover over the various galleries and workshops. A grid of rooms becomes individual objects within the perimeter of the pavilion. The galleries, the cafe, the hot shops, the courtyards; each room is a cornerless glass enclosure for visitors to flow through, separated from the others by interstitial spaces that serve not only to delineate program, but also to control sound and temperature. As one commenter said of their Sydney Modern Museum, "you don't hire SANAA to make a form based landmark." SANAA's unique approach to placemaking - not through monumental forms, but through collections of spaces that flow between inside and out - allows them to create buildings like the Glass Pavilion, functioning more as a collection of light, airy spaces to flow through, rather than an object interrupting the environment. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces invites visitors to explore and engage with the exhibits in a dynamic and immersive way. It's easy to take unique buildings like this for granted, but upon reflection, this could just be another uninspired building dotting the landscape. Instead, we are given a proverbial feast for the eyes.

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Poetry Corner

Cesarean

I wait for breath like a loud siren or ripening beast.

They cut me open you emerge then scream.

I evict an insurmountable worry into the changing light.

I am alone again with my body which is equally devastating as it is divine.

I Guess I Will Never Know

what has brought me up? Has died before me. The history of the past has now left. I guess I will never know.

The great one of the family, has now gone to another dimension of living. She was here longer than the family of love, but, no one will ever remember the true essence of her soul being. I guess I will never know.

I'm sorry that I couldn't understand everything.

I guess I will never know.

Bloom

If I'm to remember one moment let it be this humdrum sky soundless yet impressive. Your sloppy little hands reaching and smearing.

Let it be this blanket craddling us close or the scent of warm lilac opening for spring.

I'll never be able to describe the grind of motherhood, the sour smells and unruly screams. But I'll remember this afternoon the sound of your clever giggle the scent of your briny skin the ordinariness of it all and the impact on me.

Gave

I gave my love, I gave my life, I gave my body and soul. You took everything I gave but never gave back. Why? At one time we were inseparable everyone knew. It didn't matter to you. Compromises were made to benefit your love to now avail. It didn't matter. At night I would cry, I whisper your name. There is no reply. in dreams you answer my cry. You care for me like you love me.

In dreams, we were two little school girls sharing everything. Happy to be with each other. The truth was always obvious. Nothing was hidden....nothing. Now the spirits tell me to keep the faith in love. I don't know how much more my heart, mind can endure.

Give me a reason to keep loving. Please give me the reason why I love so much you destroyed my heart.

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Thanks to Our Sponsors

This nonprofit newspaper would be completely impossible without the help of our generous local sponsors! If you would like to sponsor this publication, please contact us for rates: [email protected]

Logo for Darah Medical Equipment and Supplies LLC

Donate to Support The Scribe

The Scribe freely promotes artists and creators, giving recognition and encouragement where sometimes little may be found. Currently the creators, Dylan and Jeffrey, pay the costs on printing, delivery, and labor so that the community does not have to, but this cannot be done forever.

For us to continue our mission, we ask that you please support our cause at https://patreon.com/ApolloPress or use the QR code below.

All donations over $6 are eligible to receive The Scribe copies delivered to their households!

We thank you for your support!

Did You Know?

Born in Lebanon, Ohio, Russel Wright created a line of dinnerware known as American Modern. Produced within Ohio from 1939 to 1959, it became the most widely sold American ceramic dinnerware in history!

Be in The News!

Get involved with The Scribe! Having your work showcased in this newspaper is easy! Submission is completely free, and there are no costs involved. Read below to see what categories are open for submission.

Open Categories for submission:

If you are ready to submit your work, just send an email with your content attached to our submissions email.