On a dreary Winter’s day, there are few excursions I love more than an afternoon spent exploring one of London’s grand galleries or museums. But while such a visit is like the prime Wagyu fillet of the cultural world (satiating and filling), sometimes, when pressed for time or in need of a spot of fun frivolity, all we want in the way of (cultural) nourishment is a sugary delight from Laduree.
Feeling in need of such a bite-sized dose of artistic culture, I hopped over to Dover Street the other day while en route to various fashion press day events. There, at number 32, TAG Fine Arts are playing host to an exhibition of works by one of my favourite London-based artists, Rob Ryan.
For those not yet acquainted with his work (though I’m sure many of you are), Ryan wields a paper scalpel like no-one else, creating whimsical papercut fantasy worlds from a single sheet of paper. The incredible detail just begs for a nose-right-up-to-the-glass type closer look, and his words are reminiscent of fantastical and romantic storybooks from our childhood.
So should you find yourself in W1 this week, I insist you pay a visit to Dover St for a bite-sized dose of culture, Rob Ryan-style. It will remind you that in life it is important, as often as possible, to stop and enjoy the extraordinary pleasure that can be taken from the simple things that surround us (moments gazing at the sky with loved ones, making daisy chains in the countryside and conversations with wise, chirpy birds of course!).
So tell me lovelies, how do you get a cultural fix when you only have minutes to spare?
Love, Miss B xx
Rob Ryan ‘The Stars Shine All Day Too’, TAG Fine Arts, 32 Dover Street, London w1s 4NE. On now until Saturday 20th November (admission: free).
SHOPJNSQ says
Gorgeous work – luckily, we’re in Paris and there is never a shortage of culture. At every turn, there is something to see – a cozy art gallery where you can pop in, pop out and feel like you’ve seen something spectacular, showrooms to ogle, wall art to analyse – Indeed, Paris is overflowing with art & culture!
Cara says
These works are extraordinary! I may just have to go and check them out! Thanks Briony xx
Ritournelle says
I have to admit I had actually never heard of him. I love the wistfulness of his work and it’s impressive when you know the technique he uses. Thanks for sharing!
Lorraine @ Not Quite Nigella says
B, every time I read your blog, I keep thinking how similar we are! Those paper cuttings are just divine. I bet you love that laser cut stationary from Vera Wang too right? 😀
My New Favourite Thing says
I bought the ‘can we? shall we?’ card for the boy for his last birthday – there’s something so whimsical and romantic about his artwork, I love it! xx
nicolette says
Theses are absolutely breathtaking!!! I’m embarrassed to admit that the extent of my familiarity with his work is his collaborations with Tatty Devine!