Simpson's exhibition, Rumble is the second visual aarts exhibition to be held at H&H. Simpson's imagery concerns itself with the depiction of women, albeit in non-traditional roles.

Painted on canvas, Simpson represents her figures in a style reminiscent of comic book illustrations. Against a flat, one-colour background her female figures take up most of the composition. Similarly to Pop artist Roy Lichtenstein, Simpson gains inspiration from 1950s culture. This is apparent in a number of her works, which show sailor girls, nurses and women in combat. Simpson also turns her attention to more contemporary depictions of girls with skateboards and tattooed heroines.

If you've ever wanted to start collecting art by emerging artists, drop by Hares & Hyenas – till 13.09

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MCV Art Matters

Lucy Elliott

While recounting the history, and the rise in fortunes of the al-Kharrat family through the eyes and memory of their prodigal (gay) son, Osama, on his returning to Beirut from Los Angeles for the death of his father, Alameddine regales us with the stories that entranced his characters when they were children. While most of us are probably familiar with the story of Abraham and Isaac, I doubt many of us know anything about Ishmael, father of the Arab tribes, the true story of Fatima who was lover to a djinn, or Baybars the slave prince who vanquished the Crusaders once and for all.

– Blogcritics

Blood and Tinsel
by Jim Sharman

Jim Sharman relays the story of his life rhythmically, like a play or film. Childhood memories of boxing sideshows are cut between information on eras, people, productions, and moments of inspiration.
Images from Sharman’s plays, life, and from popular culture also transport the reader into his experience. His writing is distinctly visual, poetic and personal. His recollections of people and moments that have inspired him (from Patrick White, to film, to Dada and Pop Art) are endearing. His dark streak is transformed into unquestionable talent in daring shows, operas and films from Don Giovanni to Rocky Horror.

The memoir is highly absorbing entertainment and has the potential to appeal to different ages and audiences, from those who will recognise suburban Australia, punk London, hippie-era Tokyo, or through cult associations. – Booksellers & Publishers

Price: $55

In this debut novel by burlesque dancer/ air hostess Mcleod, Lizzie is a waitress in a jolly local cafe, and is still in love with her ex, Sally. Lizzie's cross-dressing brother has bone missing and she is spiralling downhill.

Although the openiing seems to herald a familiar tale of drunken sex with strangers, this turns into a funny and surprising book. It's full of fresh observations about love, loneliness and the state of the nation. – Diva

Lambda Award Winner

Debut Lesbian Fiction

This debut novel could've fallen into the typical formula of the coming-of-age story, but it manages not to. Iinstead it develops a character who discovers a very different type of love and understanding that few other characters in such novels do.

Among Other Things is a subtle nod to Shakespeare's "The Tempest" and deftly weaves Ovid's tales into Miranda's modern-day experiences. These re-worked old tales are given new life, making the novel richly layered in metaphor and meaning.

Price: $24.95