Wednesday, February 09, 2011

The Natural History Museum Pt1 - Decorative Details

I think this is one of the most beautiful buildings in London. The decorative details within the architecture of the building are exquisite. So much so that you could lose yourself admiring it and not even get round to viewing the actual exhibits. It took me 20 mins to actually get through the front door, much to the amusement of the security guards! Whilst the man was off viewing the dinosaurs, I was entranced by the stone detailing and mosaic floors. See what you think…
I loved the monkeys that were climbing the arches, although some were a little sinister...

Tuesday, February 08, 2011

Chandelier lust!

Whilst sitting down to tea and toast in Cafe Seventy Nine on Sunday, I became completely obsessed with their beautiful chandeliers! Made up of glass tea cups, cake moulds and shot glasses, it has completely inspired me to create something for a bare bulb we have in the house. Next time you are in and around Primrose Hill, be sure to pop in for a look.

Sir Peter Blake and The Museum of Everything...don't miss out!

After extending its run in December, The Museum of Everything is sadly set to close its doors next weekend, much to the disappointment of its many fans! The museum is currently hosting Exhibition 3, an impressive display of the weird and wonderful from none other than Sir Peter Blake's extensive private collection. The 2 floor studio in Primrose Hill is filled to the brim with curiosities in what makes for a charming, nostalgic and often very funny experience.

Highlights include, Ted Wilcox and his embroidered pin up girls, Seaside shell mania, Walter Potter's fascinating Victorian Taxidermy (boxing squirrels for crying out loud!) and Arthur Miller's hand made miniature fun fair. Now, if that's not enough to intrigue, then you are obviously numb to curiosity! But believe me, you will kick yourself if you miss out on this. It is one of the best exhibitions to come out of last year and will leave you feeling up-beat, inspired and dying for a cuppa to discuss your favourite bits ...cue cute little coffee shop at the exit! Hopefully it will be back soon...
Never have I ever been so disappointed...another sign actually threatened death...eek!
Missoni's S/S11 campaign shot at the museum, seen here in front of Arthur Miller's fun fair. Photograph by Juergen Teller

Friday, February 04, 2011

Indulging in Art Deco...The Apollo Victoria Theatre

As far as art movements go, Art Deco is definitely my favourite. So you can imagine how excited I was when we stepped into the Apollo Victoria on Monday to see Wicked. I found it pretty difficult to concentrate on the musical to begin with, as I was in awe of the beautiful surroundings. I must have looked like a complete loon running around the theatre in the interval, snapping away, as everyone else was indulging in their pre-ordered refreshments! But hey, it was worth missing out on a glass of wine, just to capture this gorgeous theatre.

Thursday, February 03, 2011

South Kensington Station

Another of my favourite tube stations...i love the wrought iron lettering, the oxblood coloured tiles and the arcade of shops in the entrance. There is also a deep sense of history as you walk through, knowing that it is one of the earliest underground stations in the world (the first stage of the station was active in the late 1800s). I also love the fact that the station was known as the gateway to 'Albertopolis' or 'Museumland', thanks to Prince Albert's patronage of the area. The best thing about coming to this station, is knowing that I am only moments away from my favourite museums.

Wednesday, February 02, 2011

Art on the Underground

Did you know that the symbol for the London Underground is called a roundel? Did you also know that the symbol is 100 years old? You did?! Well, you would fare a lot better in a pub quiz than i ever would!
So, to celebrate the 100th anniversary, Art on the Underground commissioned 100 artists to create a unique design, inspired by this iconic symbol. To find out more visit their site or head down to Piccadilly Circus to see some of these posters up close.
Lothar Gotz
James Ireland...think this is my favourite...
Rose Finn - Kelcey
Karl Holmqvist
Harold Offeh...or maybe this is my favourite??
Roger Hiorns
Henrik Hakansson
Paul McDevitt
Steve Claydon