My friend and I went into London to escape the lopping of branches the tree surgeon was doing to save the Willow and forever change our vista from the living room windows overlooking the garden.
Walking the backstreets from Victoria to St. James’ unhindered, we glimpsed the moving mass of tourists hurrying to the Palace along parallel streets to watch the changing of the guard. At one point we crossed the Mall, the red road, thick with people waiting with cameras. The palace towered magnificently in the early morning sun dominating the scene and commanding an unhindered view of the surrounding parklands.
Having someone beside me who knew her way around without having to consult a map allowed the simple pleasures of strolling without bustle and discovering small shops, restaurants and theatres off the beaten track.
We went to look at art. Not just any old art but the 243rd Summer Exhibition of The Royal Academy of Arts.
This is the largest contemporary art exhibition in the world and shows works by established and emerging living artists. Even I could have entered work for selection! It has been held annually since the Academy first opened its doors in 1768. We saw 1200 works of paintings, sculptures, prints, and architectural models. Had we seen anything we couldn’t live without most of the work is for sale.
My mind was boggled by the time we left and we ate a welcome sandwich at the Pret (a porter) overlooking Trafalgar Square.
The exhibit we attended now has a 21 year old sister. Called, not the royal academy, it displays the best of the rejected art submitted to the Summer Exhibition. Everything is for sale and can be removed immediately to make room for another painting giving the opportunity for many more artists to have their work displayed in this regularly changing show.
I think hubs and I will go, we know how it feels to receive rejection slips! Rumour has it there are some brilliant pieces at this alternative exhibit and we need something to brighten up the flat.
Well hello there! My name is Vivienne McNeny.
I am an empty nester exploring life as a Boomer…you could say I'm happily Boomering along!
As a homeschooling Mum I have finally quit the job of role model and mentor to my four children. I do what I want to do, eat when I feel like it, enjoy life with my blue eyed cowboy and clean my house once a month or so whether it needs it or not!
In true English form I write about the emergence of my true identity now that I can no longer hide behind my children as their Mum.
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