Top 5: Events at Cultureplex this December including plasticine model making workshop, Dolly Parton debate & more

We all know the rule by now: if it isn’t on Instagram, it didn’t happen. Don’t worry though – Cultureplex is here to set you up with all the skills needed to showcase your delicious dishes on the ‘Gram, much to the envy of all your social media buddies. Led by former Industry Press food stylist and founder of Natural Selection Design (the folks behind Channel 4’s The Rebel Chef) Dan Burns, this two hour workshop will equip you with expert tips and tricks on lighting, composition, backgrounds and the best apps on the market for making your dinner look dazzling. All you’ll need to bring is your self – and your phone!

Manchester-based food and education project Heart & Parcel host Cook / Eat / Write / Share, an event that brings together women from migrant communities to cook, swap stories and develop their English language skills. This particular event doubles up as a celebration of the group’s inaugural and eponymous cookbook which features a selection of the participants’ real-life experiences and favourite food recipes, the profits for which go towards supporting future meet-ups. During December’s showcase, attendees will be treated to a series of talks from those involved in the book’s creation, including the designer, editor and photographer. What’s more, you’ll also be treated to a selection of four tantalising dishes served buffet-stye throughout the evening. Keep a close eye on the Cultureplex website for full menu details – they’ll be revealed soon.

Want to take your writing to the next level? Cultureplex can help with that. Simply get yourself down to their Adventures in Hand Lettering session for a whistle-stop tour of all things typography. This month’s festive special will provide attendees with everything they need to know in order to elevate their hand-made Christmas card game. You’ll get the opportunity to letter a phrase from your favourite seasonal film, work on your own wording and learn the ground-level basics of lettering and honing your own unique design skills. It doesn’t matter if you’re not the artsy-type, either – as this session is suitable for both beginners and stylised wordsmiths alike. In addition to taking home a unique artwork, participants will also come away with a mini-guide to help perfect their newfound hand lettering skills.

Hot off hosting a session last month on celebrity culture using 2019 pop-icon Lizzo as her inspiration, Salford University’s Dr Kirsty Fairclough returns to Cultureplex for another deep-dive into pop-culture, this time taking her cues from Americana icon Dolly Parton. During this eighty-minute talk, Fairclough will host a relaxed and informed discussion on the nature of celebrity and its impact on the everyday lives of those who consume it. Using Parton as her muse, she’ll dissect how this hugely successful singer-songwriter’s larger-than-life persona and raw authenticity make her a true musical icon. Come armed with questions and big thoughts. Great conversation awaits!

Local artist Designasaur hosts this inclusive plasticine workshop aimed at tapping into your inner-animator. By moulding, mixing, mashing and sculpting, attendees will be treated to some top-tips on how this often-overlooked material can be transformed into something with real story-telling potential. Those worried they’re not up to the task can relax – this three hour session is suitable for both beginners and those with a few sculpting skills under their belt, and promises to leave each visitor with their very own palm-sized model to take away. Modelling clay will be provided, all you’ll need to bring is a case or small box to ensure your masterpiece gets home safely.