Splash! A century of swimming and style. This exhibition at the Design Museum is a celebration of fashion, technology and politics of water, swimming and messing around in ponds, rivers, pools and the sea.
The drawings and ink sketches of French 19th century novelist, Victor Hugo, really are ‘Astonishing Things’ and it was fascinating to see a selection of the thousands he produced on show at the Royal Academy. They’re pretty dark, slightly creepy and give insight to a creative mind and a complex man.
Who knew that the artist best known for that agonising work, The Scream, started out as a painter of colourful portraits? Well, now we know – thanks to a wonderful exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery of Edvard Munch’s early portraits, mainly of family and close friends. It’s a chance to re-evaluate this artist’s work and enjoy the sunshine and affectionate relationships in his life.
I remember watching a documentary about Leigh Bowery on television ages ago. I was busy feeding a small baby and he was pouring coloured PVA glue onto his head and letting the drips find their way down his face. He was preparing his costume in readiness for a night at his club, Taboo. It’s so interesting to see his artistic expression presented so imaginatively at Tate Modern, along with many of the spectacular costumes he used to wear. This is a well-deserved celebration of a truly original artist.
Prince George & Master Frederick has been published! Yes, my historical fiction novel was launched in style with an event at St Giles’ Church, Cripplegate. A huge crowd braved a chill January evening and gathered to buy signed copies and listen to speeches about the book
Brasil! Brasil! A glimpse of the artistic heritage of this lively country is on show at the Royal Academy and it’s fascinating to see how a mix of European and indigenous artists have combined to create a distinctive Brasilian aesthetic.
What a treat to see the spectacular ‘Vision of Saint Jerome’ by Parmigianino at the National Gallery. The painting was acquired 200 years ago when the gallery first opened and it’s great to see it displayed in its own space surrounded by fascinating sketches and outline plans.
Electric Dreams: Art and Technology before the Internet. What a beguiling exhibition this is at Tate Modern. I find it a comfort that, whenever scientists and inventors come up with useful technology and innovations the artists follow in their wake and use them in a playful and creative way. Fascinating to see what artists achieved between the 1950s – 90s using motors, screens, broadcast, photography and computers to herald the dawning of digital.
Paper Places 