Sir Peter Cook is collaborating with Serpentine and the LEGO Group to create the Play Pavilion in London’s Kensington Gardens, revealing it on World Play Day, June 11th, 2025. This colorful and immersive structure serves as a celebration of play, showcasing architecture’s lesser-recognised function: joy. With vibrant designs and theatrical elements, the pavilion encourages visitors to engage with its playful nature and eccentricity.

The Play Pavilion will feature dynamic shapes and interactive areas. As Sir Peter Cook described it, “The Play Pavilion is a piece of theatre… intriguing shapes rise from within the structure.” The design aims to provide a living cartoon experience, where moments of laughter and activity peek through its scooped walls, inviting engagement from visitors.

By partnering with Cook and LEGO, Serpentine aims to expand beyond traditional gallery confines into a more lively park environment. Bettina Korek and Hans Ulrich Obrist from Serpentine expressed their excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to be collaborating with the LEGO Group… to realise the vision for play we all share with Peter Cook.” This collaboration makes architecture accessible in public spaces, promoting realistic interactions.

LEGO bricks will feature prominently in the pavilion’s design, showcasing the role of play in fostering connection and exploration. Julia Goldin from LEGO highlighted that “Play is not just a source of joy; it fosters connection and encourages exploration,” transforming the pavilion into an interactive space for imagination.

The Play Pavilion resonates with Cook’s legacy from the Radical Design movement, drawing from his history with Archigram. It reflects his visionary approach while remaining accessible to a broader audience. The pavilion represents a democratic tribute to playfulness, inviting summer activations and public programs that cultivate community interactions and experiences.

As visitors explore the pavilion, they are invited to partake in its performance-oriented design. Sir Peter Cook encapsulated its essence well: “Play transcends survival, achievement, and common sense.” In a society that often prioritises efficiency, this pavilion celebrates radical playfulness and the joy of wandering.

Project Information:
– Name: Play Pavilion
– Architect: Sir Peter Cook
– Program: Serpentine Galleries
– Collaborator: LEGO Group
– Exhibition Dates: June 11th — August 10th, 2025
– Visualizations: Courtesy Serpentine Galleries

The Play Pavilion by Sir Peter Cook represents a bold, interactive celebration of play, merging architectural creativity with communal experiences. Opening on June 11th, 2025, it aims to redefine how architecture can engage the public. By incorporating LEGO into its design, it emphasises the importance of joy, collaboration, and exploration, challenging traditional architectural concepts and encouraging playful interactions.

Original Source: www.designboom.com

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Mudlarking, a historical practice evolved from a survival trade, attracts modern Londoners eager to explore the city’s past. Participants scour the Thames foreshore for valuable artefacts, fostering a connection with centuries of history.

The London Museum’s exhibition, “Secrets of the Thames,” showcases over 350 artefacts, many exhibited for the first time, highlighting the stories of amateur archaeologists and urban explorers. It draws visitors into the fascinating world of mudlarks.

Alessio Chicconi, a palaeontologist and avid mudlark, stresses the importance of preserving history through these discoveries. The Thames’s unique tidal nature both reveals and conceals artefacts, enhancing preservation opportunities for varied finds, from prehistoric tools to 17th-century shoes.

Mudlarks experience a profound connection to past Britons with each unearthed item. Chicconi reflects, “It’s quite incredible when we find these objects, to think that I am the first person to touch it in 4000 years.” The process of discovery invites appreciation for even the mundane objects, presenting a narrative of lives once lived.

The exhibition, which continues until 1 March 2026, reflects not only historical artefacts but humanity’s enduring desire to leave a legacy and be remembered.

Mudlarking serves as a bridge to London’s rich historical narrative, transforming a once desperate practice into a meaningful hobby. The London Museum’s exhibition highlights the ongoing connection between contemporary individuals and the city’s past through unique artefacts. This initiative not only preserves history but also fosters a deep appreciation for daily lives across the ages.

Original Source: www.newscientist.com

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A new exhibition at the Wiener Holocaust Library in London marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Bergen-Belsen. It features poignant artworks, photographs, and letters that illustrate the grim realities of life in one of Nazi Germany’s most notorious concentration camps, where over 50,000 inmates lost their lives.

Among the highlights are portraits by British soldier and artist Eric Taylor, who liberated the camp on 15 April 1945. Curator Barbara Warnock noted, “We hold nine paintings by Eric Taylor in our collection, each one distinguishing individuals from the wider horror he witnessed as a soldier entering the camp.”

Following the camp’s liberation, Taylor returned to create paintings from his sketches. Warnock remarked, “The paintings evoke the paradox of ‘liberation.’ Liberation did not bring reprieve for those too ill or malnourished for freedom to be of any use—under one portrait Taylor left a handwritten inscription, ‘the unbelievable horror of Belsen was beyond human understanding.'”

Another inscription conveys a sense of hope: “I am glad you are recording what they have done to me.” Warnock expressed the aim of the exhibition: to highlight the importance of the evidence showcasing the crimes committed at Belsen through various artefacts.

Due to the Nazis’ record destruction and subsequent British actions post-liberation, artefacts from Belsen are scarce. Other items in the exhibition include sketches by a camp survivor and a diary smuggled in by Ruth Wiener, detailing the adversities faced by Jewish prisoners, including recollections of Anne and Margot Frank, who died at the camp in 1945.

Toby Simpson, director of the Wiener Holocaust Library, stated, “Traces of Belsen takes a fresh look at a subject that many of us think we are familiar with, because of the images of overwhelming death and suffering that were broadcast to the world in April 1945.” Warnock hopes the exhibition will present a broader perspective on the camp’s complex history.

The exhibition runs from 10 April to 10 July 2023.

The exhibition at the Wiener Holocaust Library offers a poignant reflection on the horrors of Bergen-Belsen, emphasising the tragic consequences of war and the importance of remembrance. By presenting personal stories through various artefacts, it aims to foster understanding and awareness of the complex history surrounding the camp. Visitors can engage with the significant narratives behind these artworks, enhancing their insights into the past’s dark chapters.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com

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A new exhibition, “Secrets of the Thames,” is currently on display at London Museum Docklands, featuring fascinating mudlarked items such as Roman hair pins, 18th-century curling tongs, and medieval decorated belts. The River Thames, often overlooked by locals, is internationally recognised for its archaeological significance, largely due to the efforts of licensed mudlarks who diligently search the foreshore at low tide for historical artefacts.

Historically, mudlarking was a pursuit of the Victorian impoverished, but today, thousands engage in this activity legally under the Port of London Authority. Each year, they discover and log dozens of remarkable finds at the museum. Kate Sumnall, the exhibition’s curator, notes the importance of these discoveries in enhancing our knowledge of history.

The exhibition highlights that each object, whether it’s false teeth, sundials, gold rings, or spectacles, serves as a portal to the experiences of past Londoners. Noteworthy items displayed include the Iron Age Battersea Shield and a Viking-era dagger, promising a profound exploration of London’s past. “Secrets of the Thames” will remain open until March 2026, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich heritage.

The “Secrets of the Thames” exhibition at London Museum Docklands reveals a trove of historical artefacts uncovered by dedicated mudlarks, showcasing the River Thames as a vital archaeological site. This exhibition deepens our understanding of London’s history through everyday objects and significant finds.

Original Source: www.ldnfashion.com

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R&B star Usher dazzled fans during his latest performance at The O2 Arena in London, part of his 10-night residency. The show opened with a medley of his 1994 hit “Can U Get Wit It”. Known for his energetic style, Usher engaged the audience with air flips, quick wardrobe changes, and thrilling roller skating routines alongside other dancers, celebrating his over three-decade career.

The performance featured visuals from a screen labelled “AI,” which entertained audiences during Usher’s costume transitions, showcasing everything from Union Jack outfits to sparkly suits. During an act of “U Got It Bad,” a peculiar synchronisation of onstage dancers hinted at alternative realities they experienced, adding an artistic flair to the show.

Usher expressed his joy at returning to a UK audience after ten years, stating, “(I’m) so happy to perform after 10 years. This music that ties us together represents 30 years of a career.” A crowd favourite was “There Goes My Baby,” where he charmed female fans by handing out cherries. Additionally, during “Birthday,” he playfully interacted with audience members who later revealed themselves as pole dancers.

The final moments of the performance were energetic, featuring a surprise appearance by US rapper T.I., a return to roller skating, and closing with hits like “Yeah” and “Without You.” Usher had previously rescheduled some US dates due to a neck injury but continues to thrive as an artist, with notable contributions to both music and acting, including appearances in shows like “The Voice” and films like “Hustlers.”

Usher’s O2 Arena residency showcases his exceptional talent and showmanship, engaging fans with a blend of music, dance, and interactive elements. His return to the UK after a decade highlights the lasting connection he has with his audience. The performer successfully combines nostalgia with contemporary flair, ensuring memorable experiences for fans across his celebrated three-decade career. His ability to adapt and entertain, particularly with his visual aids and crowd interactions, reinforces his status as an iconic artist in the R&B genre.

Original Source: www.standard.co.uk

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The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue has launched in Canada Water, London, marking the first immersive attraction of its kind in the UK and Europe. This new experience allows fans to explore a vibrant, interactive world filled with life-size Minecraft models and props. Visitors use a magical orb to mine resources, construct buildings, and undertake a quest to rescue villagers. Each room in the attraction mirrors key game elements, enhancing the Minecraft experience with a unique blend of physical sets and digital elements.

The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue offers a novel way for fans to engage with the Minecraft universe. By combining interactive experiences with iconic game features, it creates a captivating environment for both loyal players and newcomers.

Original Source: www.euronews.com

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The Saatchi Gallery in London celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, founded in 1985 to showcase contemporary art. Charles Saatchi, co-founder of the renowned advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi, celebrates his 82nd birthday this year. The gallery is pivotal in recognising emerging artists whose careers often take off after being featured here.

Initially showcasing Saatchi’s artwork collection, the gallery opened in 1985 in a renovated warehouse. It quickly gained a reputation by introducing UK audiences to prominent artists. Notable exhibitions featured works by Jeff Koons and Cindy Sherman, establishing the gallery as a leader in contemporary art exhibitions.

In the late ’80s and ’90s, Saatchi shifted focus to promote British artists like Damien Hirst, influencing the art scene significantly. The gallery relocated to the South Bank in 2003 and has been at the Duke of York’s HQ since 2008, expanding to 15 exhibition spaces and showcasing new Chinese art and contemporary installations.

Now a registered charity, the Saatchi Gallery aims to make contemporary art accessible, relying on private donations and reinvesting revenue into its activities. It was listed among the most visited art museums, welcoming over 1.5 million visitors in 2014, and continues to host popular exhibitions.

Currently, the gallery is featuring “Flowers: Flora in Contemporary Art and Culture,” available until May 3, displaying over 500 florally-themed works including pieces by Rebecca Louise Law and Xuebing Du.

The Saatchi Gallery has established itself as a crucial platform for contemporary art over the past 40 years. Through its commitment to both established and emerging artists, as well as its evolution into a charity, the gallery continues to foster creativity and accessibility within the art community. Its current exhibition, rich in floral artistry, illustrates its ongoing relevance in the cultural landscape.

Original Source: www.prestigeonline.com

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HAIM, the sister trio, has announced a new single titled “Relationships,” their first release in two years. Fans can presave the song now, which follows their contribution to the 2023 Barbie soundtrack, “Home.”

To celebrate this release, HAIM will host a special event in London on Friday. They teased the gathering on Instagram, expressing excitement by asking, “Londonnnn!! Let’s party?? Friday night??!” along with an RSVP link for fans.

Their last album was Women in Music, Pt. III, released in 2020.

HAIM returns with a new single, “Relationships,” and a celebratory event in London. The band invites fans to join the festivities and look forward to the track’s release after a two-year hiatus. Their recent work includes a song for the *Barbie* soundtrack and their previous album, further emphasising their vibrant presence in the music scene.

Original Source: www.1057thepoint.com

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The exhibition “Lives Less Ordinary: Working Class Britain Re-Seen” at Two Temple Place examines British working-class life through over 150 works by 60 artists. The opulent setting contrasts with its focus on underrepresented artists, illuminating their contributions to culture. It aims to address the longstanding cultural misrepresentation of working-class experiences in UK institutions, underscoring the notion that ‘art has a class problem’.

Curator Samantha Manton acknowledges her own journey, noting the challenges faced by those from working-class backgrounds in the art world. The exhibition seeks to reject clichéd depictions, aiming for a portrayal that showcases the richness and complexity of working-class lives, exemplified by Bert Hardy’s joyful 1948 photograph of boys in Glasgow’s Gorbals area.

Historical works reveal various facets of working-class life, such as Jack Smith’s painting of a toddler, focusing on domesticity rather than political commentary. Feminist influences appear from the 1960s onwards, with artists like Jo Spence and Kelly O’Brien using art to explore women’s experiences and challenges in a changing society, reflecting the ongoing legacy of working-class women.

The exhibition also presents diverse contemporary experiences with pieces by George Shaw, Beryl Cook, and Connor Coulston, emphasising a broad spectrum of identities. Photography by Neil Kenlock highlights the British Caribbean community, showcasing their lives and homes, while other artists illustrate intersections of class with gender, race, and sexuality through their works.

This exploration of ‘working class’ is expansive, tying into low-paid service and manual work, as well as clerical roles. Manton states that class encompasses more than economics; it includes personal history and identity. This exhibition offers a vital platform for artists to express their narratives, emphasising their value and brilliance in the broader art landscape.

The exhibition “Lives Less Ordinary” provides an insightful look into the complexities of British working-class life through varied artistic expressions. By challenging stereotypes and presenting nuanced experiences, it highlights the cultural contributions of working-class artists. It serves as an essential reminder of the importance of diverse representation in art, urging the recognition of these voices in the cultural conversation.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com

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Tabish Khan highlights five notable art exhibitions in London during April, offering diverse experiences for visitors. The exhibitions are mostly free and showcase a range of themes and artistic expressions.

1. Emily Gillbanks & Sharon Walters @ Hope 93: Gillbanks immerses visitors in her family life through her intricate house-like installation. Walters complements this with cut-out portraits that aim to address the underrepresentation of black female artists. Visit until 17th April.

2. Kristina Chan: Habitable Climes @ Canada House: This exhibition explores the impact of maps on world perception through Chan’s historical photographs. The installation features maps and materials from the Sunderland Collection, prompting viewers to reflect on the evolution of world views. Available until 30th April.

3. Emily Hana: Simulacrum @ Red Eight Gallery: Hana’s work consists of painted, interlocking wooden pieces that create tangible connections between bodies and artistic arrangements. This innovative exhibition invites intimacy through its unique interplay of materials. Open until 21st April.

4. Ivana Bašić: Temptation of Being @ Albion Jeune: Bašić’s sculptures, inspired by flowers and human fragility, evoke a delicate beauty. The display combines low-lying pieces with ornate wall frames, suggesting themes of spirituality and vulnerability. Exhibiting until 17th April.

5. On Ugliness: Medieval and Contemporary @ Skarstedt: This exhibition challenges traditional notions of beauty, showcasing both ancient and contemporary artwork that celebrates ugliness. Works include dramatic sculptures and paintings that provoke thought on the aesthetic values of art. Available until 26th April.

These exhibitions offer intriguing insights into various artistic approaches, encouraging visitors to explore both beauty and ambiguity in art.

In April, London boasts an impressive selection of art exhibitions that explore personal narratives, historical reflections, and the concept of beauty. From intimate installations to thought-provoking sculptures and unconventional themes, these free exhibitions provide a rich cultural experience for all art enthusiasts.

Original Source: fadmagazine.com

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