Latest news with #Osian
Cambrian News
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Cambrian News
Gwynedd pool players make history in national team debut
Gary, Osian and Troy came out top of the 14 players from all parts of the region in pool round competitions in Bangor over the last few months, gaining their place on the national team. They went on to the Nations' Cup tournament along with six teams from Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland and Gibraltar.
Leader Live
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Wrexham duo release final charity single after raising £6k
Dale Irving, from Borras, runs a guitar teaching business called Pick up and Play and he has been mentoring Osian Jones, from Wrexham, over the years. In recent years, the pair have been writing and releasing original songs together to raise money for various good causes in the Wrexham area. Their fundraising journey began during the Christmas period of 2021, when they penned a song in memory of Osian's late dad, Gareth, to raise over £1,000 for Wrexham Foodbank. This year, Dale and Osian will be teaming up one last time as the latter is moving on to concentrate on going to university and pursuing a career in music. The song - which can be downloaded for £5 here - is called "Thank You", and is dedicated to local people, businesses and charities. Proceeds will be split between four; Nightingale House, Wrexham Foodbank, Andy's Man Club and MacMillan Cancer Support. But, for Dale, the track is also a bit of a homage to his and Osian's time together. He said; "I've known Osian since he was 10, he's been my student, and then a fellow guitar teacher, but also a friend. A lot has happened over the last eight years, some great times, but also some tough ones. "I'd like to think we've helped each other in some way over the years. For me personally, I'm so proud of him and hope we keep in touch as he moves onto the next chapter in his life. "The last few years will always be very special to me. I'd also like to thank his Mum Dionne and sister Lili, and the rest of his family." TOP STORIES Dale added: "We're hoping to finish on high and have set upon 1,000 downloads for charity challenge. Everyone who downloads the single will automatically go into our prize draw. These prizes include, £500 cash, Carden Park Spa vouchers, a meal for two at the Lemon Tree and many more. "'Thank You' is a great uplifting song, and a perfect last way to finish our time together. "I'd like to thank everyone who's supported us with our previous charity single fundraisers, and if you could support us one more time we'd be most grateful."
Hindustan Times
05-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Neville Tuli's back, and he wants to teach us about India's heritage
Back in 2006, at a modern and contemporary Indian art sale by Sotheby's auction house in London, a bidding war over a work by Francis Newton Souza drove up the Goan modernist's work to over 600,000 pounds ($1.1 million). The underbidder who lost out was Neville Tuli, whose paddle became a topic of conversation in subsequent news articles. An auctioneer himself, he went on to bring home five miniatures, a work by a mid-19th century Belgian painter, as well as a Ram Kumar and an untitled Akbar Padamsee. His morning's expenditure was a handsome 663,000 pounds ($1.25 million), The Art Newspaper reported. Tuli, now in his 60s, has been a contentious figure in the Indian art scene ever since he set up The Tuli Foundation for Holistic Education & Art (HEART) in 1995. In 2000, he started Osian's Connoisseurs of Art Private Limited (OCA) in Mumbai. His aim, he once told a journalist, was to create 'the greatest arts and culture institution in the world'. He authored a book on Contemporary Indian art, held large exhibitions of not only art but also film memorabilia, with society's who's who in attendance, and conducted auctions. He also collected widely, from Hollywood memorabilia to Japanese Samurai masks and modern Indian artists as well as contemporary Indian art. Over the course of the following decade, he established an archiving, research and documentation centre, a wealth management service, an art authentication and valuation service, a film festival, an art journal, and even sponsored a team in Durand Cup Football. In 2006, OCA launched Osian's Art Fund that was, at one time, valued at ₹100 crore. However, by 2013, Tuli had lost much of the goodwill, art and money he had accumulated in the past decade. There were several reasons for this. The Art Fund crashed during the global recession of 2008 and forced Tuli to contend with a liquidity crisis and an angry crowd of influential stakeholders and litigious investors; he faced criticism for scaling up his organisation too fast, and for driving up the price of modern and contemporary art indiscriminately. In 2013, the Securities Exchange Board of India ordered the Art Fund to be closed. A few years later, prominent scholars and gallerists questioned the provenance of some of the works of an Osian's auction in New Delhi. Tuli denied all charges of inauthenticity at the time. But by then, he had sold his home in Mumbai and moved to Delhi and relative obscurity. 'I needed space with gardens and animals. I realized that I was totally ignorant of the Internet. At one point of time, I was totally against an artwork becoming a thumbnail. I thought it was a desecration of the aesthetics of the art object,' Tuli said. That is no longer the case. On April 30, he launched part of what he claims is 'the world's single largest knowledge base on the last 250 years of India'. The website named after his new organisation registered in 2023 — Tuli Research Institute of India Studies (TRIS)— carries information about different aspects of Indian art, culture and heritage, divided across 16 research categories 'to create the first framework for India Studies,' Tuli said. Comprising hundreds of visuals, the site allows viewers to structure their exploration through modules that have been created along the lines of an academic syllabus. The topics on offer right now are eclectic — The Sensual Discipline within Creativity, The Changing Smile of Childhood and its Second Coming, Uncertainty — as are the references within each subject. For instance, the Economics of Art and Cultural Industry, makes connections across fields from mid-century Hindi cinema to colonial painters. The master-lists of these references have been built over 30 years, Tuli said. 'I came back to India with one objective and only one objective. How to change what I thought was a deeply mediocre, totally unjust educational framework that did not give access to everyone or generate any joy or possess the quality which great learning and knowledge gives,' said Tuli. Such encyclopediac ventures, at least on Indian art and cultural heritage, are far and few in between. MAP, a private museum in Bengaluru, runs the MAP Academy which offers a digital resource on the history of art in south Asia. Run by Abhishek Poddar, the resource was launched in 2022. Sahapedia, another venture started in 2011, remains an open resource on Indian and South Asian cultural histories. For someone who was once critiqued for the lack of transparency in his dealings — at one point, the price of artworks that the OCA Art Fund tracked, were based on an Art Index created and managed by OCA and a financial daily — the agenda driving Tuli's latest venture has more connection to his past than he might care to admit. In 2011, long after the market crash, an Indian Express article quoted Tuli saying that he was only interested to work on the digitisation of a knowledge base of Indian art. His firm had also purchased land in central Mumbai, where the single-screen theatre Minerva, stood, with the aim of building a museum and exhibition space. He called it Osianama, and started a website as a precursor. However, the land went to IDBI bank towards repayment of Osian's debt. The TRIS website seems to be the culmination of this effort to build a repository of knowledge. And true to style, Tuli promises it will expand as he adds other subjects.
Wales Online
30-04-2025
- Wales Online
This Welsh beach has dolphins, stunning coastal, walks and banging brioche doughnuts, just don't tell everyone
This Welsh beach has dolphins, stunning coastal, walks and banging brioche doughnuts, just don't tell everyone It has all the hallmarks of a brilliant Welsh beach, expansive golden sands, big skies, sweeping estuary views and even a dolphin sighting if you're lucky! With blue-flag bathing, a lush bakery and coastal walks, Poppit Sands is my go-to beach in Wales (Image: John Francis, Cardigan ) With blue-flag bathing, a lush bakery and coastal walks, Poppit Sands is my go-to beach in Wales. This wide, dune-backed beach at the mouth of the River Teifi has all the hallmarks of a brilliant Welsh beach, expansive golden sands, big skies, sweeping estuary views and even dolphin sightings if you're lucky! I've spent hours here just walking the coast, dipping in the bracing sea and hiking along the cliff edge to get the best sea views. Poppit is part of the epic Cardigan Bay, one of Wales's most underrated stretches of coastline, sandwiched between the headline-grabbing beauty of Pembrokeshire and the Llŷn Peninsula. In 2023, Time Out magazine even dubbed its main town, Cardigan, the 'most underrated' spot in west Wales. Here, you can experience Wales as its most authentic self, zipping between secluded bays to spot dolphins, trekking the coastal path and feasting on piping hot fish and chips in small fishing villages. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here While there are plenty of beaches in the area, Poppit has the perks of a classic beach day (Image: Portia Jones ) While there are plenty of beaches in the area, Poppit has the perks of a classic beach day with soft sand, wildlife, a bakery café, and plenty of space to spread your beach towel. Porpoises and Dolphins are often sighted on the stretch of coastal path between Poppit Sands and Strumble, where Cardigan Bay curves around, and the undulating dunes around the beach are also alive with birds, butterflies, and insects. Article continues below This Blue Flag beach is loved for its golden sands, big skies, and sweeping estuary views (Image: Portia Jones ) The marine-life-rich rock pools are perfect for a spot of low-tide exploration, and if you're into birdwatching, you'll be in your element. Bring your binoculars and look for guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, and kittiwakes. There are also plenty of amenities here, including paid parking by the shoreline, public toilets, and the brilliant Crwst beachside café and bakery where you can grab coffee, cakes, and locally made ice cream between sandcastle sessions or post-hike refuels. Crwst's Poppit Sands café is the second spot from husband and wife Osian and Catrin Jones (Image: Wales Online ) Crwst's Poppit Sands café is the second spot from husband and wife Osian and Catrin Jones (the OG Crwst is in Cardigan town) and serves the best bakes and coffee in a dog-friendly and welcoming seaside café that locals and visitors rave about. Make sure to try their delicious staples like Torth y Wlad Sourdough, Brioche Doughnuts, Cinnamon Swirls and Portuguese Custard Tarts. There are also lush homemade toasties, freshly prepared rolls, the renowned Conti's Ice Cream, and Bay Roasters Coffee. Wildlife spotting and coastal walks You should also watch for snoozing seals, as they are often seen lounging on the surrounding rocks. (Image: Portia Jones ) Beyond beach days, Poppit is a great base for watching coastal wildlife or taking scenic walks along the shore. Just inland, you'll reach the riverside village of St Dogmaels, where the ruined abbey adds a dash of medieval drama. Pick up picnic supplies from the local shops or settle in for a meal with estuary views at The Ferry Inn, a waterside pub worth lingering for. And if you have more time in the area, it's worth doing the entire Pembrokeshire Coast Path (Image: Portia Jones ) Situated on the Wales Coastal Park and at the start of the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path, it's a popular spot for many to begin their walk, but it can also be accessed by the local 'history and beaches' cycle route. Whether you're starting the Pembrokeshire Coast Path here or just popping over for a quick ramble, the views are epic. The coastal path is rugged, wild, and diverse, with towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and dramatic sea views you'll want to get snaps of. You can tackle the coast path from either direction from the beach, heading towards St Dogmaels, ascending the cliff top, crossing farmlands to Bae Ceibwr, and heading back via the Coast Path. The coastal path is rugged, wild, and diverse, with towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and dramatic sea views you'll want to get snaps of. (Image: Portia Jones ) And if you have more time in the area, it's worth doing the entire Pembrokeshire Coast Path. It's a hefty 186 miles from Poppit Sands to Amroth, but the reward is unreal if you've got the stamina. You'll pass secluded beaches, towering cliffs, and ancient castles along the way. For wildlife lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to spot marine animals and birds near Poppit Sands or in the rocky bays nearby. The Cardigan Bay coastline is home to the largest population of dolphins in Europe, and its rich waters are a haven for wildlife, including seals and seabirds. For nature lovers, this is the best place in Europe to spot dolphins—especially if you're skimming over the waves on a fast-paced RIB ride through the bay's choppy waters. We booked a budget-friendly Bay Explorer boat trip with local pros, 'A Bay to Remember'. Departing from St Dogmaels (just down the road from Poppit Sands), this hour-long trip wizzes you around the shore on high-speed RHIBs, where your knowledgeable skipper will keep their eyes peeled for wildlife. Bouncing over the waves, we spotted Herring Gulls and razorbills swooping through the air and landing on rocky outcrops. We soon sped past Mwnt, a sandy bay that's one of the best places in Ceredigion to spot dolphins. As the boat stopped and bobbed on the waves, we could see distinctive dorsal fins in the distance, slicing their way through the turquoise waters before vanishing out of sight. Pebbled bays where Atlantic grey seals lounged lazily on the rocks (Image: Portia Jones ) Next, we headed to secluded, pebbled bays where Atlantic grey seals lounged lazily on the rocks. These resident seals are easy to recognise thanks to their distinctive heads, their scientific name even translates to 'sea pig with a hooked nose.' It was spectacular to watch these curious creatures in the wild; I had no idea there were so many of them in Wales, snoozing along the shoreline and barrelling through the waves. It was an unforgettable end to our wildlife adventure. Where to stay near Poppit Sands Perched on the dramatic Cardigan Bay coast, this clifftop spa offers panoramic ocean views and indulgent treatments. (Image: Portia Jones ) Cliff Hotel & Spa, Cardigan If you're after a coastal getaway that combines dramatic ocean views, pampering spa time and easy access to some of Wales' loveliest beaches, say hello to the Cliff Hotel & Spa in Cardigan. Perched high above the sweeping waters of Cardigan Bay, this cliffside hotel has the best coastline views. The hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the Wales Coast Path (bring your walking shoes!) and the peaceful trails that wind along the River Teifi. Dolphins and Atlantic grey seals are regulars in these parts, so keep your camera handy and ask the hotel staff how to book a wildlife spotting boat trip. Inside, things are cool, calm and coastal-chic. Think soothing neutral tones, modern design with a splash of marine style, and locally sourced artwork that adds charm. One of the main highlights here is the spa. Tucked away underground, it's an intimate space designed for serious relaxation, and we just loved it. You'll find a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and bubbling hot tubs, perfect for unwinding after a coastal walk or a dip in the sea. Treatments include everything from signature massages to mini facials, making it easy to carve out some time for yourself during your stay. Book here Teifi Waterside Hotel, St Dogmaels The Teifi Waterside Hotel is the perfect spot to unwind after exploring. Its recent renovation has brought a fresh, modern touch while keeping all the charm you'd expect from a coastal Cardigan Bay retreat. Located in St Dogmaels, just 300 metres from Poppit Sands Beach, it offers stunning sea views and a peaceful vibe perfect for a relaxing break near the ocean. Along with swish rooms, the hotel's menu features fresh, local ingredients from nearby farmers' markets and fishermen. It's all about supporting locals, and it shows in the flavours. But it's not just the balconies and large decked areas that make this a great place to enjoy a tipple outside, there is also a jetty for customers who plan to arrive in style by boat. Book here Albion Aberteifi The Albion, Cardigan (Image: The Albion ) Perched on the riverside in Cardigan, The Albion Aberteifi blends seafaring charm with maritime design. Named The Best Place to Stay in Wales 2023 by The Times and The Sunday Times, just four months after opening, this swish spot is the latest project from the team behind fforest. Each en-suite room feels like a captain's cabin, with reclaimed wood-panelled walls, 150-year-old oak floors, Welsh wool blankets, custom furniture, and river views from every window. Breakfast is served in the relaxed resident lounge, where you'll also find cocktails by night and coffee and cake by day. Yr Odyn restaurant offers weekend dining in the guest lounge and is soon moving to a beautiful new riverside space next door. Across the river, fforest's Pizzatipi and cosy Smwglin pub are just a short wander away. Book here Article continues below
BBC News
16-03-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Roblox: The Welsh game creator with 11 billion visits
When Osian Taubman-Edwards came across an advert for Roblox on YouTube, it immediately sparked his interest. Over a decade later, the 32-year-old is Roblox's top developer with over 11 billion visits to his profile and five million new people playing his games every from Mold, Flintshire, has created over 20 games for the platform and is ranked among the top 250 creators out of 300,000. "This has opened a whole new world of opportunity for me and I'm only gaining more recognition each day," he said. Osian started creating games on gaming platform Roblox in 2014 when he was studying music at college. "I always had a creative mind and wanted to pursue something that can challenge my mind," he said. "I had a deep passion for music but I also had a massive passions for video games." Once he became aware he could build and create his own games, Osian said it was "instantly my calling", although his parents urged him to continue his studies. "As I left to say goodbye they would watch me out the window to catch my bus. "I would then get off at the second stop and wait for my parent to leave. "I then went into the back window [at home] and I started grafting away at Roblox, completely disregarding my education," he said. One of Osian's most popular games starting out was Castle Battles in the Sky, which became "a hit" on Roblox. "Back then a hit game would only consist of around 50 to100 players. I hit the 105 players and I couldn't believe it," he most popular game to date on Osian's profile, Platinum Falls, is Barry's Prison Run, which has gained a total of 3.1 billion visits. Roblox has over 80 million daily users and is mostly used by children aged between eight and 12 in the UK. The platform allows users to create and share games with others. Over the years there have been claims of some children being exposed to explicit or harmful content through its games, alongside multiple allegations of bullying and its co-founder and CEO Dave Baszucki has insisted the company is vigilant in protecting its users. Mr Taubman-Edwards, who has been creating games on the platform from a young age, agrees and said the system blocks out harmful content. "I have heard about parent's safety concerns, but Roblox is really strict with it now and there's a system if someone is causing problems to someone. "If someone sends bad messages, Roblox completely blanks it out and it goes to a system where they can completely get rid of that person. So it's pretty good," he told Radio Cymru. He added parents could set age restrictions to protect children from inappropriate material. "So if they don't want their kids to bump into anything inappropriate, they can put the setting 'parental choice' on the phone to avoid their kids watching anything out of their age bracket," he said. So what does it take to make a popular game on Roblox? While Osian does not put any pressure on himself, he said he liked to create games he would play himself. "To be honest I'm in tune with my inner child and I create games that I would have liked as a child," he said. "When I was a child I liked lots of different games so I've taken inspiration from that. I just love it and if you love something, it's going to do well." While Osian has worked with the likes of Warner Bros and Universal Studios, he hopes to start his own game studio. "I never thought working from under my staircase, making sure my parents wouldn't find me when they thought I was in college, would be my success," he added.
