TRAVEL

Welcome to Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach

24/07/2024

Discover the harmonious blend of comfort and adventure at Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach. Nestled along the stunning south coast of Mykonos, guests can embark on various explorations, from traditional kaiique rides to the archaeological wonders of Delos, or even charter a boat to the unspoiled waters of Rhenia. The around-the-clock concierge service is on hand to facilitate travel and dining reservations, suggest activities, and cater to special needs, aiming to ensure a hassle-free and memorable stay. Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, as part of the exclusive Myconian Collection, offers guests priority bookings at top-tier spas and restaurants, enriching their experience even further. The venue is ideal for special events, with its unique and picturesque setting promising unforgettable memories. The dedicated team is focused on tailoring experiences to align with guests’ wishes, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service. At Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, you are encouraged to slow down, relish every moment, and craft lasting memories in an environment that feels like a true home away from home. This sense of genuine hospitality and deep connection to the island’s heart defines Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, making it a tranquil haven and a unique gem in Mykonos.

Free things to do in Memphis USA

19/07/2024

By James Banham

Travelling abroad can sometimes be costly, prompting travellers to be more mindful of their expenses and look for activities that cost less or preferably are free of charge. Those planning a trip to the birthplace of blues, soul & rock’n’roll and the BBQ capital of the world, Memphis, will be thrilled to find a range of activities in the Tennessee city without spending a buck or at a discounted rate. Memphis was not only voted one of the Best Places to Go in 2023 by Conde Nast Traveller but was also the Number 1 U.S. Destination on a Budget in 2023 by USAToday. According to a study last year, Memphis hotel rates were 28% lower than the U.S. average. Seeing some of Memphis’ biggest attractions can mean spending a good chunk of the trip’s budget on tickets, but there’s a wide range of museums and attractions that offer free admissions so travellers can save money without missing out on the fun. There are also multiple walking tours and even a culinary trail to follow and save money during the trip. Free Admissions to Museums and Attractions Free and Affordable Music Experiences Free and Affordable Trails and Walking Tours Explore more of Memphis here.

Travelling for State of Origin? Try these

17/07/2024

By James Banham

As New South Wales and Queensland gear up for the final battle of the State of Origin, competition is ramping up both on and off the field. With both states boasting breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastlines, and iconic attractions, it’s no surprise that the states are head-to-head when it comes to the ultimate road-trip destinations. Budget Australia has rounded up the top road trip destinations so that travellers can hit the road and decide for themselves. Now it’s up to them to hit the road and be the judge of who comes out on top! For those planning their next trip, Budget Australia is currently offering free SUV upgrades to make sure your trip is match-ready for the whole team. Minnamurra Rainforest, NSW, vs. Mt Tamborine, QLD Just a few hours’ drive from both state’s respective capitals, both Minnamurra Rainforest and Mount Tamborine are home to stunning vistas, dense rainforest, and awe-inspiring waterfalls. Pack your swimmers and hiking boots to make the most of your visit. Hilltops Region, NSW vs. Granite Belt, QLD Less known on a global scale, the Hilltops Region and Granite Belt are two exciting emerging regions that should be on any wine lover’s bucket list. Explore Young’s surrounding Hilltops Region, four hours from Sydney, and sample their takes on Italian classics like Nebbiolo, Prosecco, or Sangiovese, or head to the Granite Belt for a robust Shiraz or Chardonnay. Broken Hill, NSW vs. Birdsville, QLD Head into Australia’s beating red heart and discover the unique appeal of Birdsville and Broken Hill. Be amazed… Read More

Crete in Greece: the Greek island you need to visit

12/07/2024

By James Banham

Are you one of those who can’t stop hearing about the allure of Crete but have yet to experience its magic firsthand? Well, let’s dive into why this magnificent island, as endorsed by the renowned Crete family holiday resort Fodele Beach, deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Here is why Greeks are so good at hospitality 1. Coastal Bliss and Blue Flag Beaches Galore Crete, the majestic gem of the Greek islands, unfolds over 600 miles of breathtaking coastline, adorned with 139 Blue Flag beaches recognised for their pristine waters and eco-conscious management. Nestled in this coastal paradise is Fodele Beach Resort, offering direct access to a well-preserved beach, ideal for a spontaneous summer escape or a serene late summer retreat. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and immerse yourself in a plethora of water adventures, from exhilarating jet skiing and stand-up paddleboarding to tranquil canoeing and captivating scuba diving at premier dive sites just a stone’s throw away. Relax on the resort’s sunbeds, soaking up ample Vitamin D in between your aquatic escapades. Why Crete is a better option than Mykonos 2. Cultural and Natural Marvels for the Curious Souls For the adventurers at heart craving cultural immersions, the iconic Palace of Knossos, steeped in the legend of the Minotaur, beckons as a must-visit attraction for first-time Crete explorers. A mere 30-minute drive from Fodele Beach Resort, this archaeological marvel promises a riveting half-day journey through the remnants and intricate frescoes of the Minoan Civilisation, captivating both parents and children alike. Embark on… Read More

Where’s everyone travelling to this winter from Australia?

05/07/2024

By James Banham

As the Australian summer approaches, many families are planning their long-awaited getaways, seeking both domestic escapes and international adventures. According to Booking.com’s latest search data, Bali has emerged as the favourite destination, recording a remarkable 75% year-over-year (YoY) increase in flight searches. This volcanic island, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, also ranks highly in accommodation searches with three out of the top ten winter destinations, spurred by the desire to escape the recent rainy weather. Beyond Bali, Japan remains a top choice for Australian travellers, with Tokyo rising to the second most searched destination for accommodations, climbing three spots from last year. The allure of the 2024 Olympics is further driving Aussies to major European cities like London and Paris, which claim the third and ninth spots respectively in accommodation searches. In a striking trend, China has witnessed an astounding 95% YoY increase in flight searches, highlighting its growing appeal. Closer to home, the Gold Coast continues to reign supreme as the most popular domestic destination. Other notable domestic hotspots include Mooloolaba, which has seen a 25% YoY increase, and Adelaide, with a 20% YoY increase in accommodation searches. These trends underscore Australians’ favour for coastal and metropolitan locations during the summer months. Interestingly, technology is also shaping travel plans, with a recent study by Booking.com revealing that nearly a third of Millennials (31%) and Gen Z (30%) are likely to use AI in their travel planning this winter. This contrasts with Gen X (19%) and a mere 6% of Boomers showing… Read More

Tag: London bars

Glebe favourite The Toxteth pub gets an upmarket refresh

by THE F

Updated: 16/11/2022

Occupying a prime position on the corner of Glebe Point Road and Ferry Road for almost a century, The Toxteth recently underwent an update. Glebe’s beloved local has long been the pub of choice for catching up with friends and family over drinks and good food with live music. In late 2018, The Toxteth, or The Tocky as it’s known by locals, was given a makeover. Retaining its rustic exposed brick walls, The Tocky has been fitted out with plush leather banquettes, leather paneling on the bar, copper fixtures, and timber finishes, all set around a soft neutral olive colour palette. The courtyard now features a retractable roof, making it a viable dining option regardless of the season. To accompany the new decor, the food and beverage menu has also undergone a new look. The Tocky’s classic rump steak and chicken schnitzel remain, however they’re now joined by new plant-based options. The vegetarian and vegan fare ranges from delightfully crispy popcorn cauliflower and Italian-inspired mushroom arancini to kelp noodle salad with salt and pepper tofu or a variety of hot bowls. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, join ‘Sienna’s Brunch Club’, a bottomless Bellini brunch. For the first time, The Toxteth is serving cocktails and mocktails. The Gins and Roses is a beautifully balanced floral option, while the Espresso Martini on tap from the Lexington Hill Collection is sure to be a millennial favourite. The range of cocktail carafes provide the perfect accompaniment to a sunny afternoon with friends, and the lychee and passion fruit… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: Best Sydney pubs, London bars, sydney bars, Sydney pub guide, THE F Toxteth, Toxteh London, Toxteth Sydney

Boozy summer slushies are in London at Mr Fogg’s Tavern

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Mr Fogg’s does holistic experiences and drinks well. There’s a lot more about walking into one of the globetrotter’s venues that makes them memorable, too, but this summer, it’s the spiked slushies that are worth raving about. Mr Fogg’s Tavern in Covent Garden, right in the centre of London, is celebrating summer with an elaborate floral display and Cointreau slushie cocktails. As the world gets hotter – thanks, climate change – the bar’s partnered with Cointreau and Mount Gay Rum to install a floral explosion alongside the new additions to the menu, on ’til the end of September. You literally can’t miss it. The joint’s been swathed in a blooming floral display featuring a striking door garland comprised of vivid sunflowers, orange and red roses and intertwined with foliage. To that end, warm up your senses with the floral arrangement and then knock ’em dead with cocktails like Caribbean Ice-Land (£8) featuring Mount Gay Black Barrel Rum, Angostura Bitters, sugar syrup, coconut and pineapple. If tequila’s your thing, be tempted by the Cointreau Row Row Your Boat (£8), made up of Cointreau, Cabrito Blanco Tequila, Bobb’s Abbots Bitters, sugar and lime juice. Get them – and the whole Mr Fogg’s experience – at Mr Fogg’s Tavern, 58 St Martin’s Lane, WC2N 4EA.

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Alcoholic slushies London, London bars, London food blog, London food blogger, London slushies, Mr Foggs, Mr Foggs London, Mr Foggs Tavern

Mr Fogg’s London and Penhaligon’s launch a new cocktail

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Mr Fogg’s is not just an establishment, it’s an experience. Much like Penhaligon’s don’t just do scents, they do olfactory adventures you never want to end. Join the two together and you’ve got one insane combination of two of Britain’s leading brands in lifestyle that are making some serious magic for everyone to enjoy. Mr Fogg’s Residence in Mayfair along with Penhaligon’s has a new limited edition, Liquid Gold cocktail inspired by the historic brand’s newest fragrance, Cairo. From 26 June, the drink will be available in Mr Fogg’s Residence for one month only. Inspired by Cairo – part of Penhaligon’s new Trade Routes collection – it’s a vibrant perfume centred on the richness and sensuality of the fabled Egyptian city. Using iconic ingredients from the ancient spice trade route – saffron and woods – the scent takes inspiration from perfumer Christophe Raynaud’s recent travels to Egypt. The Liquid Gold cocktail features a muddle of Henricks Gin, Fernet Branca, lemon juice, vanilla syrup and egg white. it all makes for a light, super smooth cocktail, the concoction is garnished with edible gold vanilla spray, patchouli incense which is set alight before being served, and hibiscus powder, mirroring the floral and earthy notes found in the fragrance. To try it for yourself, make a booking at the Residence now.

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Best London bars, Foggs Penhaligons cocktail, Liquid Gold cocktail, London bars, London cocktail, Mr Foggs, Penhaligons

7 very London ways to get around Wimbledon this summer

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

It’s always a good time for tennis, but there’s no time as perfect for it in London than summer – because, Wimbledon! The tournament of all tournaments sees the world’s top tennis player descend on London for all the good stuff until one of them outdoes them all. Wanna watch the carnage? Of course you do. Wanna eat tennis-themed desserts? Who doesn’t. Here’s where to go in London: The Colton Arms in West Kensington From 1-14 July, they’re doing a picnic hamper equipped with everything to make the day extra special, like salt beef Scotch eggs, fennel and apricot sausage rolls; artichoke, sun blushed tomato and goats cheese pasties; smoked chalk stream trout, cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches; topped off with a traditional mini Eton mess. Get it for £25 – to pre-order your hamper for collection please call 0203 757 8050 or email info@thecoltonarms.co.uk – you can even drop by in person The Hayden in Notting Hill The movie didn’t do this joint enough justice, so head to The Hayden in Notting Hill to try The Ace cocktail. It’s all about a combination of Eristoff vodka, Midori, sweet & sour mix, topped with egg white and a cucumber ribbon garnish. The pub will also be screening the tournament, so you never have to miss a match. get it for £10.50 from 1-14 July. The Waterway in Maida Vale They’re putting on ‘The Smash’ cocktail, a delicious blend of crushed fresh strawberries shaken with Beefeater Gin, velvet falernum, coconut water, lime juice, monin grenadine and cream. Yum! Get it for £9 from 1-14 July. Brasserie Blanc all over London They’ve made a Strawberry Smash dessert… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: About Wimbledon London, London bars, THE F Wimbledon, What to do Wimbledon, What to eat drink Wimbledon London, Where to go Wimbledon, Wimbledon

LONDON: Smash gins this Saturday in style at Nine Lives for Midsummer Soltice

by James Banham

Updated: 22/06/2019

It’s summer in London and that means one thing – drinking in style. But not just anywhere, it’s gotta be done right, and there’s nowhere or no situation that calls for it just as well as Midsummer Soltice, hosted by Henricks gin. It’s all going down at Nine Lives in Southwark, giving drinkers the chance to take the party from the street, to the bar, to the basement as the sun works its gradient through the afternoon. It’s a full day thing, kicking off at 2pm and going right through to the evening’s wee-hours, complete with a playfully light yet wickedly crisp beverage, as partygoers bask in the midsummer sun (hopefully). The event will be set on the beautiful cobbled outdoor space during the day, before heading into the Victorian bar as the sun sets. It’ll put on dancers, actors, DJs and makeup artists for fans, as everyone sips on The Wickerman, a sweet-and-sour combination of Hendrick’s floral Midsummer Solstice Gin, cold-brew jasmine tea, tropical pineapple syrup and lemon; and Vivid Blooms, which comprises the celebrated gin, rhubarb and ginger cordial, aromatic lavender bitters and pomegranate and hibiscus soda. And once the sun’s gone, the party gets a bit more hedonistic with actors playing out a ritual homage to gin as bartenders pump out the Dark Side of the Sun cocktail, made with Hendrick’s Orbium Gin, nutty Frangelico liqueur, blueberry puree and fragrant lemon verbena. It’ll be delicious regardless of your taste. See more at the Midsummer Soltice website. View this post on Instagram Three men not in a… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: Best London bars, hendricks, hendricks gin, London bars, London drink, London gin, London Midsummer Soltice, Midsummer Soltice, The F London

The Peruvian cockail event for lovers of flavour: Noche de Cigarros at COYA Angel Court

by James Banham

Posted: 03/06/2019

If COYA in London at Angel Court isn’t hosting bottomless brunch or throwing a white party, they’re putting on something they’ve dubbed Noche de Cigarros. It’s all about Peruvian cocktails and cigars and will go down on 11 June. They’re putting their own spin on alfresco drinking by hosting the whole shebang in an informal evening soiree, kicking off with a welcome drink, before guests sit down for a cigar – voluntarily – and cocktails. For the first event, you’ll be given the chance to smoke a Montecristo Open Master cigar while enjoying two of COYA Angel Court’s signature cocktails, The Nut Nut and El Capitan. COYA comes complete with its own terrace, which they’ll be throwing to do on every other Tuesday of the month. For the refined smoker, it’s the kind of thing, lovers of flavour could easily get used to. Noche de Cigarros will happen at COYA London from 11 June, then every second Tuesday of the month. Drinks start at 6pm with the guided tasting starting at 6.30pm. Score your tickets here.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Best bars London, COYA Angel Court, COYA bar, Coya London, COYA Noche de Cigarros, London bar, London bars, London drinks, the f alcohol, The F London

Gin and exploration: Mr Fogg’s London turns the clock back by 100 years

by James Banham

Posted: 29/05/2019

There were no Google maps, no iPhones, no EPIRBs, no satellite tracking, bags weren’t make of tough stuff, shoes weren’t as advanced as they are now and – let’s be honest – people just weren’t as fit as we are today. This situation – and even more disconnected if you go even further back – indicate the conditions under which most of the world was discovered, trekked through, divulged and unveiled to one or many explorers through history and this summer in London, Mr Fogg’s is giving you a chance to learn all about it. It’s called the Mr Fogg’s Explorer Series and this June, it’ll host two dudes called the Turner Twins, modern day explorers who’ll be discussing how hard it was to be an explorer 100 years ago compared to the modern day. On 3 June, you’ll be taken on a journey as the two of them look back at the challenges faced by explorers all those years ago, battling against the elements with almost none of the technology and equipment explorers have today. With stories from their latest mission of reaching the world’s eight poles of inaccessibility, you can sit back and listen to the highs and lows of the adventure so far, with Tanqueray No. Ten gin cocktails in hand. The Turner Twins are charitably-minded modern day explorers who’ve made it their life’s mission to chart the unconventional life path that has seen them searching for answers by embarking on a series of challenges that combines pioneering medical research and unique studies of… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Exploration, London bars, Mr Foggs, Mr Foggs London, Turner Twins

Sky Garden London: Where to get the city’s best view

by James Banham

Posted: 25/05/2019

When it comes to London, there’s a lot to look at. The Tower of London, The Shard, The Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, The Gherkin; it’s a lot to take in for one place. Combine a few of those into one, launch yourself up the the 31st floor of the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building in the centre of London and you’ve got the Sky Garden; the city’s largest and most flash viewing platform-cum-bar they’ve got to offer. Officially dubbed as London’s highest garden, Sky Garden is an open space garden, right above London that provides 360 degree views of the city, featuring some of its most renowned sites and historical must-sees. From the moment you exist the lift, you’re staring down The Shard across the river Thames. To the left; The Tower of London, the fortress that became a home to kings and now houses the Crown Jewels; behind the building, a striking view of ‘The Gherkin’ building and facing West, the rest of London. It’s especially stunning at sunset. Stay until the evening to see the city light up before nightfall, go early afternoon to be drenched in golden hour sunlight for some of the most stunning photos you can take; go at any time of day for a view that money can’t buy. Sky Garden does drinks, food, and experiences like no other in London, all expertly executed and perfectly timed. It’s another one of the city’s must-dos. Make a booking at the Sky Garden website or head over and hope to get in at… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Bar guide London, Best bars guide London, London bars, London best bars, London Sky Garden bar, Sky Garden, Sky Garden London

Bottomless brunch in London: COYA Angel Court goes boozy

by James Banham

Posted: 25/05/2019

As the sun comes out in London, so do (more of) its drinkers and what better way to do it than a bottomless brunch? COYA in Angel Court – one of five global locations – has ramped it up a bit for its base of loyal and new friends, putting on a bottomless brunch spread fit for Liz herself, every Saturday. It’s for people who’re after something a bit more special than your usual endless servings of house white and beer, turning out a three hour affair of bottomless pisco sours and other cocktails, champagne, vibrant Peruvian dishes, music and special performances. It kicks off each Saturday in the Pisco Bar & Lounge with unlimited pisco sours, espresso martinis, margaritas and bloody marys for drinks, while tacos, bao buns and anticuchos take over the food menu. But that’s not where it ends. Ceviche, beef tataki, kingfish tiradito with truffle oil and more will also be available to the tune of smooth DJ beats in an environment that’s oh, too trendy. Good to know: The first weekend of each month will be a special edition brunch, with surprise performances and a special offering. Each month will have a different theme to elevate the experience and surprise guests. Get the spirit package for £65 a go, or the champagne package for another £10. See more at the COYA Angel Court website or find them at 31-33 Throgmorton St, London EC2N 2AT.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: bottomless brunch, Bottomless brunch London, Coya London, London bars, London food blog, London food blogger, London restaurants, The F London

6 reasons to visit the new Vivi Restaurant and Bar in London

by James Banham

Updated: 18/03/2019

If the 60s were your decade of choice, you like quality bevs and fancy a new joint to visit, right in the middle of London, then the new Vivi Restaurant and Bar at Centre Point is for you. Complete with flair bartending, an all-day menu and a quality range of decor, the new venue – by the folks who brought us the famed London Skygarden – offers up a fresh new six reasons to pay it a visit. And then keep coming back. The dining room Open from brekkie to brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, head chef Arnaud Delannay will be pumping out signature dishes that focus on bold flavours and fresh seasonal ingredients. He’s kind of made a name for himself by turning out twists on the old classics such as Keen’s twice baked cheddar soufflé; chicken kiev and mash; and duck à l’orange and all the desserts you need. 2. The bar Vivi has really made its mark with the whole nostalgic thing. By working with a drinks menu that celebrates old school bartending with imaginative, quality cocktails, they’ve carved a niche out for themselves that really hits the mark when it comes to justi what you need. Drinks like Wild Honey on the Beach of Bulleit rye whiskey, pimento dram, lemon thyme infused honey, lemon and The Beach Boys, The Weeping Guitar of gin mare, Italicus rosolio di Bergamotto, cucumber, elderflower, lime, tonic water, everything they make is quality. 3. The gallery This is where Vivi-goers comes to people watch, gawk,… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: London bar restaurant review, London bars, London best bars, London best restaurants, London restaurants, Vivi, Vivi London, Vivi London bar restaurant

ARTS & CULTURE

Chicos Mambo’s award-winning show TUTU comes to the Peacock Theatre

26/07/2024

By THE F

Chicos Mambo’s acclaimed performance of TUTU is set to light up the Peacock Theatre at Sadler’s Wells, from Tuesday 1 to Saturday 5 October. After nearly a decade of touring and close to 700 performances worldwide, this family-friendly show, created by Artistic Director Philippe Lafeuille, features an all-male cast of six dancers dressed in a kaleidoscope of flamboyant costumes. TUTU affectionately mocks the classical ballet uniform while expertly parodying over 40 iconic characters, blending styles from classical ballet to contemporary dance. Audiences can expect innovative twists on well-known pieces, including a hip-hop rendition of Swan Lake and a quirky take on Dirty Dancing. Ahead of the show, Lafeuille expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m very happy and proud to be presenting my show TUTU in London. For me, London represents one of the world’s great epicentres of performing arts and entertainment. It’s a city that has given me great theatrical thrills, and I’m delighted that our visit coincides with TUTU’s 10th anniversary. Where better to celebrate this milestone than at Sadler’s Wells, a theatre that showcases dance in all its diversity and richness? So get ready to be ‘TUTUfied’, London… let’s dance!” David Fry, the Peacock Programmer, shares the excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Chicos Mambo’s TUTU to the Peacock Theatre this October. With their blend of technical prowess and comedic flair, Chicos Mambo injects a fun and fresh energy into their shows. I know our audiences and West End friends will adore TUTU’s playful choreography and flamboyant costumes that cleverly subvert gender norms in… Read More

Ramesh Marion Nithiyendran in his studio May 2024. Photography Bowen Arico 2

New kind of Sri-Lankan Australian art in Sydney

22/07/2024

By James Banham

There’s a Sri-Lankan Australian artist, Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran, who’s putting on an art show entitled The Self Portrait and the Masks. And you need to see it in Sydney.

Flamenco Manuel Linan ¡VIVA c. Marcos G Punto 7

Amazing Flamenco in London; you must see ¡VIVA!

22/07/2024

By James Banham

With six bailaores (dancers) gracing the stage, ¡VIVA! pays homage to freedom while defying traditional gender norms of flamenco.

Egypt Museum NGV Friday Nights Pharaoh Michael Pham 4

NGV Melbourne brings a new take to Pharaoh exhibition

22/07/2024

By James Banham

Every Friday night, a rotating program of performance residencies will surprise and delight with unique musical experiences in the Great Hall. Inspired by the Pharaoh exhibition, each week audiences will be taken on a different musical journey, with a selection of music and performances, from jazz to cabaret, to classical, funk and blues.

José María Velasco’s Mexican art comes to National Gallery London

17/07/2024

By James Banham

The National Gallery in London is proud to present the first monographic exhibition in the UK dedicated to José María Velasco (1840–1912), Mexico’s esteemed 19th-century painter. Titled José María Velasco: A View of Mexico, this groundbreaking exhibition will be held from 29 March to 17 August 2025 at the prestigious Sunley Room. Please note that there will be an admission charge for this extraordinary showcase of artistic brilliance. Celebrating Mexico’s Artistic Legacy This landmark event marks the debut of a Latin American artist’s exhibition at the National Gallery and aligns with the 200th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the UK and Mexico. José María Velasco’s renowned body of work primarily focuses on the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Valle de México, encapsulating the essence of Mexico’s evolution amidst significant societal transformations. Rediscovering Velasco’s Legacy Despite his acclaim within Mexico, José María Velasco’s international recognition has waned over time. This exhibition aims to reintroduce Velasco to a global audience, shedding light on his multidimensional genius beyond painting. Not only was Velasco a masterful artist but also a botanist, naturalist, and geologist, blending artistry with scientific inquiry to create captivating and insightful compositions. Exploring Cultural Narratives Velasco’s paintings transcend mere aesthetics, delving into the intersection of cultures, ecological conservation, and industrial progress. By juxtaposing Velasco’s works with pieces from the National Gallery’s collection, such as Édouard Manet’s The Execution of Maximilian, visitors are prompted to contemplate themes of colonialism, industrialization, and humanity’s impact on nature—a discourse as relevant today as it was in the 19th century. A Scholarly… Read More