Another Year at the RA Summer Exhibition

This year the variety and invention creates a more dynamic content. 
Away from the bling of the Grayson Perry tapestries, which provide a running text on the woes of modern society, there are many works to appreciate.  The overwhelming presence of work by already established RA members restricts the imprint displayed by the public and diminishes the exhibition as a result.  So many RAs use their time-worn formulaic work to recycle year on year, whilst new talent embraces challenge and fights to get through the sometimes baffling selection of criteria.
I enjoyed the mix and will go again.

David Bowie to George Bellows

Saw the Bowie exhibition on Thursday - very comprehensive collection of his work from the early beginnings.  His influence on the arts can be seen when looking at the collection of photos and memorabilia from other areas of the arts he has inspired.  It felt like being at a Bowie concert - there's so much music and film performance.

Really enjoyed the George Bellows at the Royal Academy, particularly his early work.  I felt that in later years he concentrated more on the comfortable side of art - paintings of wealthy families.  I left the exhibition wishing the last part had been as exciting and painterly as the first part.

Evening at Sadlers Wells

The Tanztheater wuppertal Pina Bousch, performing Vollmond; elements reminded me of the impact of water at Fuezerberouta I saw at the Round House in Camden very recently. I loved the fluidity of the lines, the draping of cloth and the humour. Some of the content was difficult to translate but the athleticism of the performers was enthralling. The music was extremely varied and at times totally abstract but also melodic and vaguely familiar. The effect of the water thrown in the air against a black back drop was like diamonds on velvet, brilliant.

The theatre was packed and I am definitely going back for the Flamenco in March - having just seen Manet at the RA, I.m reminded how black as a tone always elevates everything in contrast to it.

Manet at the RA

Enjoyed the Manet at the RA on Sunday 17th Feb - followed by afternoon tea at Selfridges.  Loved the display at Jonathan Adler and Anthropologie - two of my favourite brands.  I enjoyed the Manet's where black anchors the composition, often set against whites or skin tones.  The influence of photography, as in his sister-in-law's portrait, is obvious and often divided his work into two camps.  For me, I don't think his skills as a draughtsman were his forte but his use of colour, tone and texture is always rewarding. 

I also had time last week to call in at the Portrait Gallery to see The Lost Prince.  The wonderful miniature by William Larkin never fails to exhilarate the senses - his delicate portrayal of ruffled lace!  I felt Kate Middleton's portrait was a lost opportunity; more befitting a L'Oreal advert, technical but not inspired. 

Art & Culture in Istanbul

Just spent a long weekend enjoying Istanbul's culture and history.    The Sultan's palaces are incredibly opulent, colourful full of history and great wealth.  The Blue Mosque has an atmosphere of religious ceremony, particularly when call to prayer, with awesome tile decoration, walls and ceiling. The absolute surprise and highlight was the Basilica Cistern, built and designed by the Romans in 500AD to provide water for the city.  Have to say the Turkish people are incredibly welcoming, courteous and keen to please.  Really recommend it as a destination for anyone who is interested in ancient culture, where East meets West.  Also thoroughly recommend the Sirkeci Konak Hotel, near Sultanamet, as it's right in the heart of the old city and a really well-run boutique hotel.