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deanleivers.bsky.social
deanleivers.bsky.social
@deanleivers.bsky.social
32 followers 120 following 110 posts
East Midlands based Freelance Creative Practitioner and Trained Mindfulness Teacher for Schools.

https://linktr.ee/deanleivers
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deanleivers.bsky.social
For anyone else who isn't anywhere near 100% this week. Thank you Creative Boom 🙏

www.creativeboom.com/tips/how-to-...

#CreativeRecovery #WorkSmartNotHard #PostHolidayRoutine #BeatBurnout #JanuaryMindset #GentleProductivity
How to ease back into work post-Christmas (without burning out by week two)
Aiming to
www.creativeboom.com
January 7, 2026 at 5:50 PM
deanleivers.bsky.social
This Month I've Mostly Been...

This month I decided to run down, in no particular order, my favourite books, movies/TV and albums from the last 12 months.

Check out the blog post over on my Substack open.substack.com/pub/deanleiv...

#bookrecommendations #filmrecommendations #musicrecommendations
December 30, 2025 at 7:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
A fun bit of animation to finish the year with one of my 'Mighty Creatives' creative mentees. Genuinely have to pinch myself sometimes to make sure my job isn't a dream!

#freelance #mentoring #creative #animation #education
December 19, 2025 at 5:50 PM
deanleivers.bsky.social
A great morning with Samantha Jayne Peberdy working on the layout and text placing for our children's book 'The Bongazingajangle' which we'll be sharing in early 2026!

#childrensbook #autor #illustration #eastmidlands #freelance #Collaboration
December 17, 2025 at 1:37 PM
deanleivers.bsky.social
A little look at the cover design work in progress for 'The Bongazingajangle' a children's story by Dean Leivers and Samantha Jayne Peberdy.

We are so excited to be putting this collaboration out into the world in 2026!

#book #creativewriting #illustration #story #childrensbook #eastmidlands
Colorful children's book cover for 'The Bongazingajangle.' A surprised red-haired child in blue overalls and green boots stands before a large, abstract jungle creature made of swirling brushstrokes in green, blue, pink, and white. The title appears in playful green lettering at the top; the bottom reads 'written by Dean' and 'illustrated by Samantha.' The scene suggests a whimsical, magical adventure.
December 10, 2025 at 8:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
One of my Mighty Creatives mentees has entered his experimental photography phase. This week some light painting! We made a little video clip using his stills too.

#mentoring #photography #lightpainting #derbyshire
December 7, 2025 at 11:53 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
🎶 It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas…In Blackwell Parish at least.

📷 Some recent photographs for Greater Creative as they unveiled the festive trees created during the 'Squares' project. Over 5000 crocheted squares were made by local residents which were stitched to create the trees!
Cone-shaped Christmas trees made from colorful crocheted squares stand in a decorated indoor space. Each tree features a patchwork of vibrant yarn patterns. Chairs are arranged for an audience, and a musical group performs in the background. A small traditional tree and wall art add to the festive atmosphere. A large ensemble of musicians in teal shirts performs indoors, led by a conductor in a dark suit. They play wind instruments like flutes and saxophones, seated in rows with teal and black music stand banners. The audience watches from chairs in a multipurpose hall with wooden floors and white walls. Three smiling individuals stand in the foreground of a musical gathering. One wears a red top and glasses, holding a colorful booklet; another claps joyfully in a blue-green checkered sweater; the third wears a cream sweater with red patterns. A teal banner in the background reads “UNITY Concert Band.” A close-up of a vibrant patchwork made from crocheted squares, each with unique colors and patterns. Some squares feature geometric designs, while others have festive motifs like a red triangle resembling a Christmas tree. A string of black lights is draped across the textile.
December 5, 2025 at 7:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
We went back to get the finer details of the Home Truths 'Recreate the Streets project. All of the models are amazing and there are so many details to explore.

Big thanks to Platform Thirty1 for the loan of the office/studio space for a morning.

#photography #studiophotography #derbyshire
A detailed miniature model of a butchers shop named “W.H. Brown & Son,” featuring a red facade, striped awning, and open door revealing colorful sweets inside. The shop window displays candies, and a chalkboard sign lists treats like sherbet lemons and jelly beans. The model sits on a wooden surface with a white backdrop. A miniature grocery stall with shelves of tiny jars, crates labeled “milk” and “drink,” and baskets of eggs and produce. A vintage-style “BUY BRITISH” poster and a “Colman’s Mustard” box add nostalgic flair. The scene includes realistic replicas of food items and packaging, arranged with careful craftsmanship. A miniature cobbler’s shop featuring a red counter, wooden chair with a carved cat design, and a workbench filled with tiny tools like brushes and scissors. A cylindrical “POLISH” container and boxes labeled “Twist” and “KIWI Shoe P” add realism. A cutout figure of a cobbler in an apron stands beside the workspace. A small model of a horse-drawn ice cream van painted cream and red, with “ICES” written on the side. A brown horse with white markings is harnessed to the front. The van has a vintage design with windows and wheels, blending nostalgic charm with whimsical detail.
December 3, 2025 at 8:01 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
This Month I've Mostly Been…November 2025

Another run down of the books, films and music that entertained me over the last month. open.substack.com/pub/deanleiv...

#bookrecommendations #movierecommendations #musicrecommendations
This Month I've Mostly Been...
November 2025
open.substack.com
December 1, 2025 at 7:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
🚨Lovely feedback claxon! 🚨

Always nice to hear (I won't let it go to my head though).
November 27, 2025 at 7:20 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
"Things I've Been up to Lately"

Photo Coverage for Greater Creative's 'Re-create the Streets' event. What an amazing day to see the community coming together to celebrate heritage in Newton. You can read more about the wider project at blackwellparishhistory.co.uk

#photography #events #promo
Two people, one older and one younger, closely examine a panoramic artwork on an easel in a gallery. The older person points at the painting while discussing it, surrounded by others viewing art in a shared, educational space. Seated woman in yellow apron works on a craft project while a man in a green apron labeled “POTTER RHYME” guides her. Table is covered with paints and brushes in a collaborative art workshop. Elderly person wearing headphones smiles while viewing a detailed miniature butcher's shop with red door, green windows, and a “Quality Meats” sign. Indoor setting suggests a communal or therapeutic activity. Miniature diorama of a vintage grocery store with shelves of branded goods like flour, vinegar, and cornflakes. A shopkeeper figure stands behind a counter with fruits and packaged items, under warm lighting in a box-like display.
November 24, 2025 at 8:01 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
I've gone Arts Award crazy over the last few weeks! Continuing sessions with the Home Ed and Creative Connections groups in Alfreton and also a half term 'Discover in a Day' session with a group of young leaders in Newton.

Lot's of great work produced and reflections by the young people involved.
A creative photograph showing a child’s face reflected multiple times through a kaleidoscope effect, creating a pattern of repeating eyes and facial features. Close-up of several printed ‘Arts Award Scrap Book’ covers featuring colorful art-themed doodles of paintbrushes, palettes, and pencils on a white background with an orange border. Person holding a pen and writing on an ‘Arts Award’ worksheet titled ‘Participating in the arts’. The page shows a mind map around the question ‘What art forms can you identify?’ with branches listing art forms such as drawing, painting, dance, acting, and photography.” A group of children and an adult gathered around a table with a colorful polka-dot tablecloth. The adult, wearing a name tag labeled "Dean," is demonstrating a photographic process, holding a print over a red tray commonly used in darkroom photo development. The scene is in a cozy, home-like setting with books and household items in the background, as the children watch attentively.
November 6, 2025 at 8:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
It's really important to be kind to myself from time to time, and reflect on just how far I've come over the last decade or so. I've been part of so many great projects and had experiences I never thought I would, with some of the most supportive individuals and for that I'm very grateful indeed!
A postcard pinned to a corkboard with a blue pushpin. The card shows two stylized white birds outlined in black, flying in opposite directions. Behind them, pink text in bold capital letters reads “YOU HAVE COME SO FAR.” The background of the card is light pastel pink.
November 4, 2025 at 11:53 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
This month I've mostly been…' (October 2025)

My monthly round up of the entertainment that I've slotted in between the usual work/life activities!

Find the (very) short read here: deanleivers.substack.com/p/this-month...
This Month I've Mostly Been...
October 2025
deanleivers.substack.com
November 1, 2025 at 8:00 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
Krefeld, it has been a trip!

So many positives with our group of young people, what a great experience to share with them over the last few days. More posts to come in the following week or so but for now we get to explore a little before coming home.

Auf wiedersehen! 🇩🇪

#YouthProject #project
Panoramic view of a residential area surrounded by dense greenery. In the foreground, a multi-story brick apartment building and other homes are nestled among mature trees. The background reveals taller urban buildings, suggesting a transition from suburban to cityscape. The sky is overcast, casting soft, muted light across the scene.
October 27, 2025 at 11:53 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
So today's the day. Kit bag packed and passport dusted off. Germany work trip here I come! 🇩🇪

#YouthProject #project #leicestershire #Germany #Education #culturalexchange
A dark blue British passport with gold embossed text and the Royal Coat of Arms rests on a gray travel bag. The bag is partially unzipped, revealing a bright orange interior. Behind them is a solid teal wall, creating a clean, modern backdrop. The passport text reads: “British Passport – United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.”
October 23, 2025 at 9:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
Session number FOUR already, with the Home Ed group in Alfreton on their Arts Award journey alongside @calmandcraftyclaire. This week we're off to see a local exhibition but for now here's some images from animation week.

Big thank you to platformthirty1 and Black Shale LCEP for the commission.
October 21, 2025 at 9:02 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
This week I started working with the Home Ed group in Alfreton where a group of young people are aiming to complete their Bronze Arts Awards. We started with cyanotype photography looking at its history and examples of artists working with the process.

#photography #project #derbyshire #ArtsAward
Two children’s hands arranging green leaves and small plant stems on pieces of paper with green backgrounds, placed on a wooden board. One child is wearing a bracelet, and a pencil lies nearby on the table. Two children wearing gloves are using sponges to apply a yellow liquid onto pieces of paper at a wooden table. The table also has a container filled with dark liquid, disposable gloves, plastic safety goggles, and an open box of gloves. The scene suggests a hands-on science or art activity.
October 3, 2025 at 6:38 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
Some things I read, saw and listened to last month over on Substack. You might like them too!

deanleivers.substack.com/p/this-month...
October 1, 2025 at 10:53 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
Wednesday work in progress. I'm taking time out today to start the ground work on a small scale, self directed project based in my local landscape. I'm not sure what the project is yet, but I'm looking forward to leaning into the unknown and seeing where my curiosity takes me.
Alt text: "Close-up of a dried umbel-shaped plant with thin stems radiating from a central point, holding small dried seed pods and delicate filaments, set against a completely black background."
September 24, 2025 at 6:29 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
On the Blog: What an awesome show to be asked to photograph! An amazing evening of powerful theatre courtesy of The Growth House.

See more images here: open.substack.com/pub/deanleiv...

#photography #eventphotography #derbyshire #theatre #communitytheatre #community
A man wearing sunglasses, a light blue polo shirt, and dark trousers performs on stage with expressive body language and an open mouth. His tattooed arms are visible. Behind him, another person in a hoodie and graphic t-shirt sits near a wall of cardboard boxes labeled with words like “SEX,” “WORK,” and “DEVIANCE.” Blue star-like lights decorate the backdrop. Four male performers in colorful, exaggerated costumes act dramatically on a stage. Behind them is a backdrop with twinkling lights and stacked boxes labeled with words like “SEX,” “STATUS,” and “MOVEMENT.” Audience members are visible in the foreground, watching the performance. people in suits perform on an indoor stage. One person on the left points and smiles, the center person makes an exaggerated face while grabbing his trousers, and a third is partially hidden behind them. The background includes a curtain, ceiling tiles, and props with words like “WORK” and “CONTROL.” Four people stand on a stage smiling and interacting warmly. They wear varied outfits including a hoodie under a blazer, a zigzag sweater, striped shirt with red shoes, and a light polo shirt. Behind them is a starry blue light backdrop. A white stand with flowers and a “MINACK” sign sits in the foreground, alongside a chair and small table.
September 19, 2025 at 6:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
On the Blog: A series of images from a recent shoot for First Art at their Clay Cross 'Out and About' Sessions. I love working on these types of events, lots of activity to photograph and wonderful people to spend the day with.

See more here: open.substack.com/pub/deanleiv...

#photography
A young child and an adult sit at a table doing arts and crafts. The child wears a black and red Spider-Man cap and a navy sweatshirt, using blue scissors to cut white paper. The adult, with light-colored hair, sunglasses, and a light top, smiles while assisting. The table is scattered with paper sheets, some showing drawings or outlines. An orange soda can sits nearby. Behind them is a textured blue wall, suggesting an outdoor or informal setting. A smiling young boy and an adult sit at a table doing arts and crafts. The boy wears a white shirt with colorful dinosaur illustrations and the word “ROAR.” The adult, with a beard, brown cap, and green jacket, uses a black marker to draw or write on paper. The table is scattered with art supplies including markers, glue, and sheets of paper. The setting appears casual, with natural light suggesting it’s either outdoors or near a bright window. A person in striped sleeves and denim overalls operates a bird puppet resembling a heron or egret using a black rod. The puppet is set among painted green reeds and stylized water waves, evoking a wetland scene. Surrounding props include a red and green watermelon-like structure, yellow checkered curtains, and lush green foliage. The backdrop features trees and a cloudy sky, indicating an outdoor setting. The scene is colorful and imaginative, showcasing detailed craftsmanship in both puppet and set design. A young child with light blonde hair sits at a table, concentrating on a drawing. The child holds a black marker in the right hand and an orange marker in the left, working on a sheet of paper filled with colorful shapes and scribbles. Several other markers are scattered on the table. Behind the child is a large, stylized mural of a bird with red and black feathers, set against a textured, metallic-looking wall.
September 17, 2025 at 6:30 AM
deanleivers.bsky.social
Starting the week on a positive note!

It's not often I receive feedback from photo shoots, and that's ok, seeing clients use images for their promo is more than enough. But when feedback does come it never fails to give me the good feelings! 😍

#photography #photographer #performance #feedback
Two performers on stage during a live shoot. One person stands energetically in front of stage curtains and a starry backdrop, reacting or mid-performance. Behind them are props resembling placards with bold words like “BROTHERHOOD” and “APPEARANCE.” A white text box overlays the image, displaying positive feedback from the shoot: “Thanks so much for your work on this. We loved working with you and having you in the room. All the team commented on the good vibes you brought.”
September 15, 2025 at 6:30 AM
Reposted by deanleivers.bsky.social
mollycaenwyn.bsky.social
Home Darkrooms in Britian 📸🏠🏳️‍🌈 Oral History Project

I wish to speak to LGBTQIA people who have experience of having a home darkroom or used a darkroom that felt like home.

If you are interested in learning more, please get in touch:  
📧 [email protected]
📞 +447902489831
Image: On a dark blue background are white and light blue impressions of two pansies. At the bottom are the logos for the Arts and Humanities Research council, the Museum of the Home and the University of Westminster. Text at top left reads - Are you LGBTQIA+ or non-heterosexual? Do you have experience of darkrooms in the home or spaces that feel like home to you? If so, then this project is for you!
September 11, 2025 at 4:44 PM
deanleivers.bsky.social
Another selection of things that I saw in Germany 🇩🇪

#photography #Germany #Bonn #travelling #visualjournal #ideas #notetaking
Dense cluster of Coleus plants with deep burgundy leaves edged in bright yellow-green. The foliage features serrated edges and symmetrical patterns, creating a vivid and ornamental display. Close-up of a vibrant orange flower spike made up of densely packed blossoms along a central stalk. Broad green leaves surround the spike, with similar foliage in the background, creating a bold contrast of color and texture. Vibrant purple water lily with pointed petals radiating outward from a yellow center. Surrounded by green lily pads and blurred foliage, the flower stands out in a serene pond environment, showcasing vivid contrast and natural beauty. Close-up of a flowering plant with dense clusters of small, tubular purple blossoms tinged with white and pink. The flowers rise above large green leaves in a lush tropical setting, with lighting that highlights their delicate structure.
September 5, 2025 at 2:01 PM