Explore the life of Van Gogh in Paris, in London

Vincent Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' paintingEykyn Maclean, one of London’s prestigious private art galleries, is hosting a new and exciting exhibition entitled ‘Van Gogh in Paris’, exploring the artist’s life throughout the period in which he lived and worked in the city, 1886-1888.

Appropriately, the ‘Van Gogh in Paris’ exhibition will be held amongst the works of his contemporaries, including key pieces by French masters Monet, Pissarro and Gaugin, many of which are privately owned and rarely displayed in public.

It is noted that Van Gogh’s distinct style was formed from the influence of these major contributors to the impressionist and post-impressionist eras.  Van Gogh’s transition from living in the Netherlands to France is clearly demonstrated through his paintings, from his sombre Dutch style works, to the more colourful pieces like Sunflowers, for which he is renowned.

Highlights of the exhibition include a self-portrait of the painter which co-owner Maclean states is ‘Essentially the first proper self-portrait he produced.’

Deemed “A small but perfectly formed exhibition” by The Independent, the event is not to be missed by art and history enthusiasts alike. After soaking up the culture at Eykyn Maclean, why not drop into DUKES London to relax and enjoy our delicious afternoon tea?

London Jazz Festival: one of the best in the world

A black and white shot of a man playing jazz on a saxophoneMarked “one of the best jazz festivals in the world” according to the Guardian, London’s Jazz Festival returns to mark its 21st birthday from 15th to 24th November.  Consisting of more than 250 shows over a 10-day period, the festival takes place in a variety of beautiful venues across the city, including London’s hub of cultural arts, the hip Southbank Centre.

The festival offers a perfect mix of classic artists who have helped to write the history of jazz, and new, exciting talent shaping the future of the genre.  The London Jazz Festival will be showcasing amazing artists from all over the world, including some of the very best talent the UK has to offer.  The event does much to showcase the city’s network of different cultures and communities, all of which are united by the electric atmosphere.

This event is not to be missed by all ardent jazz fans.  Highlights of this year’s programme include the opening night gala, Stan Sulzmann’s Neon Orchestra, and Madeleine Peyroux.  For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.londonjazzfestival.org.uk .

In London for the festival? Why not extend the experience by dropping into our DUKES Bar after a show to relax and recharge with one of our famous Martinis!

Image courtesy of Jimmy Baikovicius

London’s Frieze Art Fair is back!

The bandstand in Regent's Park, London, in winterThis October, London welcomes the return of the Frieze Art Fair.  The event is a contemporary art fair held in London’s Regents Park, which draws in over 60,000 visitors; some looking to buy, others just to spectate: “A must-see event” as described by The Guardian.

Originally staged for the purpose of selling works of art, the fair has become much more of a culturally stimulating entertainment event; including 152 of the world’s leading contemporary art galleries, specially commissioned artists’ projects, and an artist-led education schedule.

This year will be the 11th edition of Frieze London and the event aims to be better than ever with a complete redesign of its layout.  This change in design will introduce more sizeable public areas and wider aisles along with a new and innovative layout of galleries. This year’s gallery list includes establishments from international territories such as Brazil, China and Columbia.

Those looking to buy or simply browse should not miss out on the Frieze Art Fair. Tickets can be purchased from http://frieze.seetickets.com/event/frieze-london/regent-s-park/724064  –  and if visiting at the weekend, why not drop into DUKES London for a delicious meal or memorable drink?

Image courtesy of Transangst