Two terrific exhibitions in London, but be quick - both finish on14th September

Landlines, a free exhibition at the Royal Geographical Society in Kensington is only on until 14th September. If you have any interest in man’s interactions with the land, and particularly the remaining wild land with which we live, this is a must. Fifteen artists - sculptors, painters, installation artists, drawings - who together form The Wilderness Art Collective.

The Royal Geographical Society also has one of those wonderful, almost hidden garden spaces in London. 

The hut is a recreation of the collapsible, portable accommodation used by Ginny Fiennes on her transpolar expedition.

In addition at The Menier Gallery, free, four artists respond to the River Thames.

The river Thames was glistening as I returned home.

Free exhibitions in London

Due to family commitments, I didn’t get to many exhibitions between September and January, so I am making up for it now. on Thursday I went to two exhibition, both free, but very different.

I have mentioned The October Gallery here before. It really meets the definition of a hidden gem: down a small side street, not well-signposted, but marvellous when you get inside. The current exhibition, “Portal” shows the work of several artists, and is on until 5th May. Lovely lunch in the cafe, surrounded by the art.

Then to Morley College to see the biannual exhibition, “Made at Morley”.  This is a curated exhibition of work from students who are studying drawn, painting and sculpture at Morley College. On until 21 March. Lots of lovely things to be inspired by.

Kew Gardens inspiration

Do go and see Life in Death by Rebecca Louise Law, a mesmersing installation at Kew Gardens, on until March 2018.

In, and out of the greenhouses, the light was wonderful

Sculpture by the sea

One year I hope to visit “Sculpture by the Sea” in Australia. Until then, I make do with seeing sculpture in weathered shapes at British beaches

Cramond causeway, weathered U-boat defences, reminiscent of the cardinal sculptures by Giacomo Manzu.

Or with less sinister features

With a stretch of the imagination, beginning to resemble the Venus of Willendorf

Ogmore beach, wooden groynes weathered in to anthropomorphic shapes

These shapes are percolating through my mind as I have forgotten to bring any sketching or stitching materials on holiday.

Stunning stitches at Victoria Miro Gallery , Whitechapel

On a beautfully sunny day, I was able to get to the Victoria Miro Gallery to see the work of Do Ho Suh.  Stitched, gauzy cloth in glowing colours, replicating some of the places where he has lived. On until 18th March, well worth a visit.  Not so sure about the exhibits at the next door Parasol Unit, where the stitch is poorly-executed and looks like an afterthought.

And on the way home,more colour to make the heart sing.

Serpentine squares ( and some rectangles)

In contrast to the curvaceous summer house, the pavilion this year is all square-faced, open, cuboid modules bolted together in to a soaring curve.

A performance artist is needed to set up some contrasting vignettes in those square openings.

Serpentine curves

Great photo opportunities at the Serpentine summer houses today