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.
The 80s: Photographing Britain This is a new photography exhibition at Tate Britain which captures aspects of that decade and seems to suggest that everyone back then was in a state of angst, dissatisfaction and dispute. I remember it rather fondly but now it’s all history for a younger generation to view. An interesting show with 350 images to tell the story of Britain during those years.
Love for the elderly, sensitive family situations and tender images of relationships dominate this year’s selection of Taylor Wessing photo portraits on show at the National Portrait, and I approve the choice of prize winners for 2024.
Prince George & Master Frederick is my debut novel. It’s a work of historical fiction but is based on the true story of Frederick Blomberg, the little orphan boy who was adopted by King George III and Queen Charlotte in 1765 and brought up like a prince within the royal household. Was he really the King’s secret son?
Paper Places 