Maurizio Cattelan’s latest exhibition, “Bones,” at Gagosian London, showcases 24K gold-plated panels marked with bullet holes. This art piece serves as a critique of the juxtaposition between immense wealth and the accessibility of weapons. Echoing his previous work, “America,” which was stolen earlier this year, Cattelan’s new pieces delve into themes of creation and destruction.

The exhibition also features a prominent marble sculpture resembling a bull’s bust, positioned atop a couch. This piece invites contemplation about its mythical quality and placement in a modern context, highlighting Cattelan’s aim to blend ancient history with contemporary art. Together, the elements of the exhibition challenge viewers to consider the contrasts of domesticity versus wildness and wealth versus vulnerability.

“Bones” runs until May 24, offering an engaging experience that reflects on complex social issues through striking visuals.

Maurizio Cattelan’s “Bones” provocatively explores wealth’s relationship with violence. Through gold-plated panels with bullet holes and a striking marble sculpture, the exhibition raises important questions about creation and destruction. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on these contrasts until the exhibition closes on May 24.

Original Source: hypebeast.com

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The ‘Kurt Cobain Unplugged’ exhibition is set to open on 3 June 2025 at the Royal College of Music Museum in London, marking the first UK display of Cobain’s iconic Martin D-18E guitar. This exhibition will explore Nirvana’s legendary MTV Unplugged performance, celebrated for its musical impact.

Tickets for the exhibition will be available for booking starting Wednesday, 30 April. Interested visitors can join the waitlist to receive updates and access when tickets go on sale.

The exhibition not only showcases the guitar, which fetched over $6 million at auction in 2020, but also reunites it with Cobain’s olive-green mohair cardigan from the 1993 Unplugged performance, marking a historic display of both items.

In addition to the guitar and cardigan, the exhibition features a selection of Nirvana memorabilia that highlights the band’s enduring influence and Cobain’s songwriting prowess.

Curated by rock journalist Alan di Perna and RCM’s Gabriele Rossi Rognoni, the exhibition promises insights into Nirvana’s legacy. Di Perna has contributed to prominent publications and has interviewed key figures in rock music.

Accompanying events will include performances and workshops inspired by Cobain’s guitar, designed to engage families and music enthusiasts alike, with further details to follow.

The ‘Kurt Cobain Unplugged’ exhibition at the Royal College of Music will showcase the legendary Martin D-18E guitar and Cobain’s cardigan, highlighting Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged performance. It is a unique opportunity for fans to explore the band’s legacy through curated memorabilia and events. Ticket bookings start on 30 April.

Original Source: www.broadwayworld.com

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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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David Hockney, at nearly 88, is showcasing his largest exhibition yet in Paris, titled “David Hockney 25,” featuring 11 rooms across four floors filled with his vibrant artworks. Dressed sharply in a houndstooth suit, Hockney shares anecdotes from his past, recalling how fellow students used to mock his accent during his time at the Royal College of Art. Despite this, he found confidence in his unique style, stating, “I’d look at their artworks and I’d think, well, if I drew like that, I’d keep my mouth shut.”

The artist expresses joy over the exhibition, which he regards as his best, exclaiming, “I’m just laughing, I mean we made it!” Two years in the making, Hockney had doubted he would be present due to his health issues. His recent works, including portraits of his carers and a self-portrait, reflect his ongoing commitment to painting, dedicating four to six hours daily to his craft.

Hockney’s show prominently features his 220 iPad paintings, crafted during the pandemic, portraying the beauty of spring. He remarks, “Do remember they can’t cancel the spring,” a hopeful message for visitors. The exhibition also includes well-known pieces such as “A Bigger Splash” and “Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures),” alongside a collection of portraits of loved ones, showcasing personal connections and creativity.

In discussing his artistic journey, Hockney highlights his penchant for colour and optimism, asserting, “I’ve always thought it was an absurd world.” The exhibition showcases a contrast of both bright colours and powerful themes. With a focus on his recent work from the past 25 years, he aims to spread positivity. Visitors are welcomed into a realm of laughter and vibrancy, an embodiment of Hockney’s life and art. The exhibition runs from 9 April to 31 August at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris.

David Hockney’s exhibition ‘David Hockney 25’ marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing a vast array of his artwork that reflects his vibrant creativity and optimistic outlook. Despite his health challenges, Hockney’s commitment to painting remains strong, and the exhibition demonstrates his unwavering connection to art, spring, and his loved ones. The show promises to inspire joy and resonant reflections on life and creativity, celebrating Hockney’s legacy.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

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To commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a North London council has announced a festival and two exhibitions. Residents are encouraged to host local street parties for a community celebration following the official VE Day on May 8, marking the end of a nearly six-year war.

VE Day, occurring on May 8, 1945, marked Germany’s surrender to Allied forces and ignited global celebrations. Although the war in Japan continued until August 1945, this day is pivotal in the history of peace in Europe. However, current geopolitical tensions raise concerns about the stability of that peace.

Harrow Council has organised various events for this occasion, with a bank holiday on Monday, May 5, allowing for community festivities. Celebrations will include a special VE Day event at Headstone Manor and Museum from 12 pm to 5 pm, featuring activities for families, live performances, and war-themed events.

Two exhibitions have been ongoing at Headstone Manor Museum since February and will conclude on May 25. These exhibitions cover home life leading up to VE Day and Harrow’s local commemorations. The exhibitions are free for all visitors.

Residents can also participate by hosting community street parties on May 10 or 11. Those interested must apply for the necessary street closure by the April 17 deadline to celebrate this important anniversary.

Overall, North London’s VE Day commemorations aim to engage the community through street parties and cultural events. With historical exhibitions and a dedicated celebration weekend, the council is fostering remembrance of a significant wartime milestone while addressing contemporary issues of peace and security in Europe.

Original Source: www.mylondon.news

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Mudlarking, initially a survival tactic for the Victorian underclass, has transformed into a cherished hobby for Londoners and history buffs alike. This engaging pursuit allows participants to explore the Thames foreshore and rediscover the city’s rich history. The new London Museum exhibition, Secrets of the Thames, features over 350 artefacts found along the riverbanks, many on public display for the first time.

The exhibition immerses visitors in the realm of mudlarks, who serve as amateur archaeologists and storytellers. These enthusiasts uncover items that reveal fragments of daily life over centuries. Palaeontologist Alessio Chicconi, an avid mudlark, emphasises the importance of preserving history as it is discovered: “What mudlarks do is really important to preserve history as soon as it’s found.”

The unique conditions of the Thames, including its tidal movements and anaerobic mud, contribute to the preservation of a diverse range of artefacts, from prehistoric flint tools to 17th-century shoes. This allows for the exploration of multiple epochs, making the river a significant time capsule.

Mudlarking is motivated by a profound connection to past Britons. Chicconi reflects on the awe of being the first person to touch certain objects in millennia: “It’s quite incredible when we find these objects, to think that I am the first person to touch it in 4000 years.” Each discovery conveys stories of lives once lived, highlighting the beauty within ordinary items.

The exhibition, Secrets of the Thames, will remain open until 1 March 2026, inviting visitors to appreciate both the artefacts and the timeless human desire for legacy.

Mudlarking has evolved from a desperate means of survival to a valuable hobby that reconnects modern Londoners with their city’s history. The *Secrets of the Thames* exhibition showcases the diverse artefacts uncovered by mudlarks, illustrating the river’s unique role in preserving tales from the past. These finds serve as reminders of humanity’s shared history and the enduring desire to connect with those who came before us.

Original Source: www.newscientist.com

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The National Gallery in London is hosting a unique overnight stay in the exhibition rooms, allowing a winner to dream beneath renowned paintings. This exceptional opportunity coincides with the gallery’s 200th anniversary and aims to celebrate its reopening following a two-year closure. The prize draw will select a participant from subscribers to the gallery’s newsletter to enjoy the experience that includes a private tour and dinner at Locatelli restaurant.

The overnight experience begins with a dinner for two, followed by a private tour led by Christine Riding, the director of collections and research. Participants will explore over 1,000 artworks illustrating western European painting from the 13th to the 20th century, featuring famous pieces and previously unseen works. The next morning, the winner enjoys a breakfast hamper before having exclusive access to the gallery.

This rehang of the gallery is the most extensive in recent years, coinciding with additional anniversary events, including a supporters’ house and a learning centre. Past overnight events, such as a 24-hour opening for Van Gogh’s exhibition, highlight the gallery’s commitment to unique visitor experiences. The director, Sir Gabriele Finaldi, emphasised the significance of this draw as a novel way to present the collection’s stories and surprises.

The National Gallery’s overnight prize draw offers a rare chance to experience its newly re-hung collection under remarkable circumstances. With a luxurious dinner, private tour, and exclusive access post-closure, this initiative not only celebrates the gallery’s bicentenary but also highlights its ongoing commitment to visitor engagement. The competition exemplifies innovation in art appreciation and interactive experiences.

Original Source: www.theguardian.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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David Hockney, at nearly 88, is opening his most significant exhibition yet in Paris, described as his ‘biggest and best’. Known for his colourful art, he’s still vibrant, sporting his signature style with a houndstooth suit and yellow glasses. Hockney recalls how fellow students mocked his accent at the Royal College of Art, yet this did not deter him from recognising his artistic worth.

His exhibition at the Louis Vuitton Foundation features 11 rooms of art spanning four floors, showcasing 220 iPad paintings created during the pandemic, when he brought joy through depictions of blooming nature. Hockney emphasizes the optimistic message of spring with his works, stating, “Do remember they can’t cancel the spring.”

Despite health challenges, he continues to work daily, recently completing portraits of his carers. He believes that true judgement of a painter’s work comes only after their last artwork. Hockney’s great-nephew Richard notes the determination for him to showcase his work in Paris, highlighting the family bond in his art.

The exhibition juxtaposes Hockney’s famous pieces, including “A Bigger Splash” and “Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures)” with recent portraits of family and friends. This show focuses on Hockney’s last 25 years, reflecting on optimism in a challenging world. Hockney expresses a steadfast commitment to his craft, with plans to continue painting his great-nephew and beyond. His exhibition, “David Hockney 25”, runs from 9 April to 31 August at the Fondation Louis Vuitton, Paris.

David Hockney’s exhibition in Paris celebrates his artistic legacy, showcasing his vibrant works and optimistic outlook on life. Despite past challenges and health issues, Hockney remains a dedicated artist, continuing to create works that resonate with joy and warmth. The collection highlights personal connections and the evolution of his craft over 25 years, making it a significant event in the art world.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk

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The UK AIDS Memorial Quilt will be showcased at London’s Tate Modern for the first time later this year, marking a significant event for remembrance during the AIDS epidemic. Created in the 1980s by Scottish activist Alistair Hume, it aimed to raise awareness about the lives lost to AIDS, drawing inspiration from the US AIDS Quilt.

Originally displayed in the late ’80s and early ’90s, the quilt has been largely in storage, with its last exhibition in London taking place during the 2021 European AIDS conference. The quilt features 42 large panels made from smaller panels, each symbolising a life lost to AIDS, representing approximately 384 individuals from around the UK. By 2011, over 20,335 people diagnosed with HIV had died in the UK.

From June 12-16, 2025, visitors can view the quilt at Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall. Fashion critic Charlie Porter, involved in organising the exhibition, described the experience of being near the quilt as “a humbling experience.” He emphasised the importance of displaying the quilt in iconic places to convey the message about HIV/AIDS.

The UK AIDS Memorial Quilt represents a poignant reminder of the lives lost during the AIDS epidemic. Its upcoming exhibition at Tate Modern highlights the importance of remembrance and awareness. Through its display, visitors will engage with the history and impact of HIV/AIDS in the UK.

Original Source: www.timeout.com

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