In the run-up to to Christmas we occupy been profiling one GuardianWitness contributor per day. Our festive countdown concludes with a cheerful Aubrey LeahyBehind the lens: days one to 25 of the GuardianWitness advent calendarName: Aubrey Leahy (fourthplinth)A short summary of yourself: I was born in Guildford during the blitz. The night before I was born 220 bombers were over London. I occupy a theory,unproven as yet, that upon hearing of my arrival Hitler realised he was done for! At the age of 15 my headmaster told me “We would like you to find gainful employment in the outside world as we feel we can no longer teach you anything here.” I was fragment of the crew who helped serve Sir Winston Churchill his final meal at The Savoy Hotel, or while completing an apprenticeship in hotel management. I spent three years in Napa learning to make and sell wine,and another seven working on private yachts. The highlight of my artistic career was to occupy a photo chosen for the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in 2007. It was titled ‘West Wittering.’ I still get a buzz from being included. I winter in California, overlooking Joshua Tree National Park. The rest of my time is divided between London and rural Ireland. I’m very lucky to occupy a fabulous sister in London. I’ve never married but occupy had some wonderful honeymoons. I’m gay just seeing the dawn most mornings, and living the great unplanned life!Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com