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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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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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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A new immersive adventure, ‘Race Across The World: The Experience London,’ is set to debut in London on May 13. This engaging activity allows participants to experience the excitement of the multi-award-winning TV show while exploring the city’s streets. Attendees can put their street smarts to the test in a quest to unlock hidden secrets and complete a race against the clock.

The event will take approximately 2 to 3 hours and involves private team challenges that retain elements of budgeting, strategy, and teamwork from the TV show. Participants will embark on a journey to uncover London’s hidden gems while solving puzzles that guide them through the race. Teams will be scored based on their time and budget, with opportunities to be crowned champions.

Organised by CityDays in partnership with All3 Media, this experience is part of a broader range of 64 immersive adventures in 16 UK cities, including scavenger hunts, escape rooms, and more. Founder Tom Rymer expressed enthusiasm about providing fans the chance to engage in the show’s thrilling elements while discovering unique spots in London.

This experience kicks off alongside the fifth season of the TV show, giving participants a chance to see how their performance stacks up against the contestants on-screen, albeit in a vastly different setting.

‘Race Across The World: The Experience London’ is an exciting opportunity for fans of the show to engage in an immersive urban adventure. Launching on May 13, participants will dive into a race that incorporates problem-solving and teamwork while exploring London. This event runs concurrently with the fifth season of the TV show, heightening the excitement for participants and viewers alike.

Original Source: secretldn.com

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An exhibition titled “Secrets of the Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures” has opened at the London Museum Docklands, focusing on the art of mudlarking, or searching for artefacts along the Thames’ foreshore. This major exhibition showcases over 350 objects that highlight the river’s significance in London’s rich history spanning more than 10,000 years. The Thames has been a site of human activity and historical remnants since prehistoric times through various periods, including Roman and Viking invasions.

Historically, mudlarking began in the early 1800s, primarily as a way for the impoverished to scavenge the foreshore for sellable items. This often perilous pursuit, especially for children and women, involved navigating dangerous tides and hazardous conditions. Today, licensed mudlarks, with a growing interest since 2020, carefully search for treasures that may have been preserved in the river’s unique environment.

The exhibition features numerous interesting finds, including a medieval gold ring, a Viking-era dagger, and items like clay pipes and 18th-Century false teeth. Many artefacts are displayed for the first time, showcasing excellent preservation due to the humid, clay environment of the Thames. Local artist and mudlark Amy-Leigh Bird illustrates the beauty in everyday objects, encouraging visitors to recognise the stories behind each artefact from the river.

Bird’s sculpture “Ancient Ruins,” composed of collected bones, highlights the importance of overlooked fragments of history. The exhibition offers visitors an immersive experience, inviting them to explore the story behind each find. Curator Kate Sumnall emphasizes the importance of the Thames as a treasure trove of London’s past, filled with stories of migration, community, and love.

This engaging exhibition is expected to attract both casual visitors and historians eager to delve into London’s dynamic history. Running for a year at the London Museum Docklands, tickets are available starting from £16. For further details, visit the museum’s website.

The exhibition “Secrets of the Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures” highlights the rich historical significance of artefacts found along the Thames foreshore. With over 350 displayed items, it underscores the importance of preserving and understanding the stories behind these relics of the past. This engaging exhibition offers a unique window into London’s historical narrative, appealing to a broad audience.

Original Source: insidecroydon.com

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A new series of stunning posters by artist Eliza Southwood will be displayed across the London Underground this year. This initiative, part of the London Transport Museum’s ‘Transported by Culture’, aims to showcase the city’s cultural venues with vibrant illustrations.

The four seasonal posters continue a longstanding tradition of contemporary art in the transport network, initiated by Frank Pick in 1908. Pick advocated for using poster art to promote London’s attractions, creating a legacy still celebrated today.

The first poster will showcase the Dulwich Picture Gallery, followed by designs of the London Transport Museum, Royal Albert Hall, and London Zoo. These eye-catching artworks will enhance the museum’s significant graphic art collection and will also be available for purchase online and at the museum.

Elizabeth McKay, Director and CEO of the London Transport Museum, expressed excitement about reviving Pick’s vision of accessible art. “These new posters celebrate the capital’s creativity through art, theatre and music programming for our visitors,” she noted.

Eliza Southwood remarked on her pride in creating artworks representing four key London locations. The series will debut on April 4, so be on the lookout for these spectacular designs in the Underground!

The London Underground will feature a series of beautiful posters by Eliza Southwood, celebrating the city’s cultural venues. This initiative honours the legacy of Frank Pick and aims to make art accessible to all. The first poster will appear on April 4, with more designs following seasonally, enhancing the transport network’s artistic offering.

Original Source: secretldn.com

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A new mudlarking exhibition, “Secrets Of The Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures,” is set to open at the London Museum Docklands. This showcase features historical artefacts discovered in the River Thames, including a Tudor headdress and a Viking dagger. The exhibition opens on Friday and highlights the significance of mudlarking in uncovering human history.

Mudlarking has evolved from a Victorian trade among the poor into a popular hobby for history enthusiasts. The exhibition showcases over 350 objects sourced from the Thames foreshore, such as a 16th-century ivory sundial, medieval spectacles, clay pipes, and 18th-century false teeth. Visitors will gain insight into how mudlarks conduct their research and record their findings.

Marie-Louise Plum, a mudlarking enthusiast, remarked on the Thames as a “liminal zone” where the past and present converge. The exhibition reflects over 50 years of mudlarking and includes notable items like the Waterloo helmet and the Battersea shield, both dating back to the Victorian era.

Curator Kate Sumnall emphasised the Thames’s significance as a custodian of London’s secrets and the essential roles mudlarks play in archaeology. She aims for visitors to leave with a sense of wonder about exploring London’s past.

Mudlarking records date back to the mid-1800s when impoverished communities scavenged the Thames foreshore. Nowadays, licensed mudlarks conduct searches for preserved treasures at low tide, and there has been a rise in licensing applications since 2020. The London Museum’s Finds Liaison Officer documents around 700 finds each year and identifies roughly 5,000.

The exhibition at the London Museum Docklands showcases the rich history uncovered through mudlarking along the Thames. With over 350 artifacts displayed, it highlights both the personal stories of mudlarks and the significance of their contributions to archaeology. As mudlarking gains popularity, more individuals are exploring London’s history through this unique lens.

Original Source: www.indy100.com

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The Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea, London, presents the exhibition “Flowers – Flora in Contemporary Art & Culture,” running until May 5, 2025. This vibrant display showcases the significant role of flowers in art and culture, offering inspiration and creativity for all who visit. Whether you admire floral aesthetics or seek artistic innovation, this exhibition promises a memorable experience.

Inside, over 500 pieces of art greet you, including paintings, large installations, photography, fashion, historical items, and digital creations. The exhibit beautifully illustrates the cross-cultural influence of flowers on creativity throughout history.

A highlight is Rebecca Louise Law’s stunning hanging garden, featuring 100,000 dried flowers suspended from the ceiling, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Miguel Chevalier’s interactive digital room, where flowers react to visitors’ movements, captivates both children and adults alike.

The exhibition is organised into sections such as Roots, In Bloom, Flowers and Fashion, and New Shoots, allowing guests to explore the various connections we share with flowers. Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate the display of floral prints by renowned brands, including Marimekko, merging artistry with everyday style.

Tips for visiting:
1. Pre-book tickets online to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends.
2. Aim for weekdays or early mornings for a quieter experience.
3. Attend “Flowers Late” events on select Fridays for workshops, music, and drinks.
4. Enjoy refreshments in the gallery cafe after exploring.

Overall, the exhibition highlights that flowers, while delicate, embody profound meanings and inspire creativity. This immersive experience is a must-see for anyone in London this spring, promising visual delight for flower lovers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking inspiration.

The Saatchi Gallery’s exhibition on flowers offers a captivating experience that blends art, culture, and creativity. With a diverse range of artworks and interactive installations, it illustrates the lasting influence of flowers. Visitors can enjoy the unique layout, themed sections, and special events. This spring exhibition is a perfect destination for anyone looking for inspiration and joy.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com

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Pangolin London, located at Kings Place, is a unique gallery that focuses on sculpture and collaborates with Pangolin Editions, a leading foundry established in 1985. The venue features not only sculptures but also a wide array of music and drama, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore window displays, a sculpture trail throughout the building, and sometimes a second exhibition, though access may vary depending on events.

Founded in 2008 and directed by Polly Bielecka, Pangolin London offers a carefully curated programme of solo and group exhibitions. Notable past displays include an extensive collection of sculptors’ drawings in 2021. Currently on show is ‘Animal Instincts’, featuring works such as Breon O’Casey’s piece on slugs and a life-size bronze pangolin by Pangolin Design.

Pangolin London has spotlighted various artists over the years, including William Tucker and Susie MacMurray. The gallery also regularly showcases works by Danish ceramic artist Merete Rasmussen and highlights from Lynn Chadwick’s career. The next exhibit will feature Geoffrey Clarke, with artworks displayed alongside those of his son, Jonathan, a noted sculptor.

Pangolin London stands out in London’s diverse gallery landscape for its focus on sculpture and strong collaborations with artists and foundries. With a robust exhibition programme led by Polly Bielecka, it continues to offer engaging art experiences. Current and upcoming exhibitions highlight the gallery’s dedication to showcasing both established and emerging artists.

Original Source: fadmagazine.com

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Damien Hirst, in collaboration with HENI, has launched a series called “The Dreams.” This includes 40 original canvas works and eight limited edition prints featuring his signature butterflies and spin paintings. Hirst describes these prints as capturing “a star or a heartbeat,” filled with explosive colour and movement, embodying a curious playfulness.

Hirst’s spin painting journey began in 1992, coinciding with his first Turner Prize nomination, where he explored mechanized art and randomness. Butterflies serve as a universal symbol of love and beauty, signifying life’s fleeting moments and humanity’s connection to nature.

The prints, measuring 88 x 88 centimetres, are available on HENI’s website until April 7. They are Diasec-mounted Giclée prints priced at $3,500 USD, limited by demand, and come signed and numbered. The paintings feature butterflies on household gloss canvas, also signed and titled, measuring 91.4 x 91.4 centimetres, available by application.

Selected works from “The Dreams” can be viewed at HENI London, located at 6–10 Lexington St, London W1F 0LB.

Damien Hirst’s “The Dreams” series marries his iconic motifs of butterflies and spin paintings, reflecting themes of nature, beauty, and mortality. Available on HENI’s website, the limited prints and paintings are designed to evoke curiosity and capture fleeting moments of life. Viewing is currently offered at HENI London until April 7.

Original Source: hypebeast.com

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