London: Tea Time in Wonderland

No matter how many times I have been there, the V&A entrance still wows me: this amazing contrast between the classical dome and the surreal octopus glass work by Chihuly…

V&A
Cromwell Road
London SW7 2RL

Does not ring a bell? Oh, but you do know this artist. You admire his work each time you step in the V&A: this huge octopus like glass chandelier is one of his creations.

The Halcyon gallery has quite a few of his sculptures on show at the moment and I have been wowed by those. Photos are not permitted and those on the website do not reflect how impressive the colours and shapes are. The glass seems to have a life of its own, a movement, a will to bloom into flowers, fly towards the sky or burst into flames at the top of the stairs. Such expression and strength in a material which could shatter so easily!

The sight makes you wonder whether you have opened the door to another dimension. Shouldn’t there be an intriguing music in the background? Are those goin to move any minute? Those are made for spectacular places and appear regularly in sumptuous botanic gardens, taking their place naturally in luxurious flora. As in the Kew Gardens Victorian architecture a few years back. If you fancy a full size feel, make a detour to Park Lane and gasp at the Torchlight Chandelier, just in front of the Dorchester. Particularly beautiful at night, it seems to control the whole space.

Contemporary, yes. Lovecraftian, almost. Out of this world, really.

Halcyon Gallery
Chihuly - until March 31, 2012. Free.
144 – 146 New Bond Street
London W1S 2PF

The most beautiful flowers are those blooming forever. On greyish days, I dream in front of this paper lace work by Rob Ryan. Of escapes to the seaside and spring valleys. A few seconds of sweetness before reality kicks in. Somehow, it proves even more efficient than chocolate.

That’s art baby:
* Rediscover Picasso at the Tate.
* Add a touch of surrealism with Chihuly.

Take the little ones along:
* Saturday, learn how to make 3D pancakes. It’s free.
* Also on that day, try the apple wassail at Camden’s Natural Reserve.
* The Duck Tour now proposes a James Bond theme.

Love, Love, Love:
* Victoria & Albert, a royal love -  fabulous animations.

Out of the ordinary:
* Saturday, go clue hunting in Shoreditch.
* Or sing at the pub. At the Coach & horses, it has become a tradition every Saturday. They even have a piano.
* Prepare your own potions.
* A little London love.
* See a movie. On a roof. In a theatre made of reclaimed material form the olympic park.
* Camelias are in bloom at the Chiswick House – gorgeous!