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: the f melbourne

Melbourne’s best bottomless cocktails at Brogan’s Way, Richmond

by James Banham

Posted: 13/05/2023

Bottomless cocktails, delicious tacos, and a cozy atmosphere – who says you have to wait until summer to enjoy all of these things? Thanks to Brogan’s Way Distillery and Bar in Richmond, cocktail-lovers can indulge during the colder months too. Starting on 20th May, Brogan’s Way is hosting Bottomless Cocktail sessions on selected Saturdays from May through to September. Each session will run for two hours starting at 3pm and will take place at the Brogan’s Way Distillery and Bar on North Street, Richmond. Guests will be treated to unlimited G&T pairings, select gin cocktails, and bottomless bubbles. Some of the G&T pairings on offer include the popular Everyday Salvation Gin & Tonic and Strawberries & Cream Gin & Tonic. Meanwhile, the cocktails on offer will be on rotation, including the Mando Sour, Mulled Gin, and Blood Orange Negroni Spritz. Not into alcohol? Don’t worry, Brogan’s Way also offers a non-alcoholic menu featuring delicious mocktails, select soft drinks, and alcohol-free wine. But that’s not all – guests can also indulge in tasty tacos from the Special Event Taco menu. Both meat and vegetarian options are available. Tacos start from $13 for two and can be ordered during the Bottomless Cocktail sessions. The Bottomless Cocktail sessions are a great idea for those looking to catch up with friends and family on a Saturday afternoon with refreshing and unique drinks and delicious food. And with tickets for the bottomless Gin Cocktails Drinks Package priced at $58 pp and the unlimited non-alcoholic Cocktails and Soft Drinks Package at… Read More

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

Tags: best bars melbourne, Best cocktail bars, Bottomless cocktails, Bottomless cocktails Melbourne, Brogan's Way, cocktail bars, cocktails, Food and drink Melbourne, THE F Brogan's Way, the f melbourne

Melbourne Wine & Cheese Fest is back this March

by James Banham

Posted: 14/01/2023

If wine and cheese are your thing, then this is the news you want. There’s a one-day festival held on Sunday 5th March that will give Melburnians – and visitors! – the chance to experience 50 local wineries, cheese and artisan producers all under the one roof. Held at the Port Melbourne Timber Yard, which will be converted into an epic wine and cheese delicatessen that has to be seen to be ‘brie-lieved’. Running across two mouth-watering sessions, foodies can meet each boutique producer, sample free tastings and support local vendors by buying goods brought from all corners of Victoria and beyond. he live music, DJs and roving artists will keep guests entertained while their taste buds take a trip around Victoria, whilst the little ones keep busy in the dedicated kids’ zone complete with face painting, lawn games, and more interactive games. And for those looking to get their feet dirty and take home some delicious prizes on the day, Wine & Cheese Fest will be running their famous Grape Stomp Competition between 3pm and 4pm. Expressions of interest are now open, wineandcheesefest.com.au/grape-stomp-comp When: Sunday 5th March, 2023, 11.30am – 8pm (across two sessions) 1st session: 11.30am – 3pm 2nd session: 3.30pm – 7pm Where: The Timber Yard – 351 Plummer St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207 Who: 50 local wineries, cheese, and artisan producers Why: To celebrate the 10th year of bringing together local wine and cheese makers under one roof for all to enjoy. Cost: General Admission: $44-$59, Total Wine Indulgence (TWI) $89/$94, VIP $150

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: melbourne food, Melbourne Wine & Cheese Fest is back this March, the f melbourne, THE F Wine cheese fest, Wine cheese festival

Melbourne restaurant Fishbowl is doing good for the community

by James Banham

Updated: 08/01/2023

Opening this month (7 January) in Armadale in outer Melbourne, Japanese-inspired salad bar Fishbowl will be the first to open in partnership with Flying Fox, a youth organisation building connections between people with disability and the community through the power of fun. The grand opening of the Armadale store will harness a community feel with all proceeds from the day going to wards supporting Flying Fox’s programs as they continue to grow. Guests will be able to visit the new store from 11am, where FISHBOWL will also be providing beats, sweets and treats throughout the day.Over four months in the lead up to the launch, Flying Fox have held two’hangouts’with the group in store side by side with Fishbowl staff taking orders, making bowls, calling on the pass and just simply hanging out with their friends over bowls. The partnership was sparked from the idea of how to utilise FISHBOWL’s reach and community engagement, doing what they can to change fast food and change the culture. Head down on the date. They’re at FISHBOWL Armadale, Shop 4 & 5, 953-967A High Street, Armadale 3143 VIC

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

Tags: Fishbowl, the f melbourne

Melbourne Good Food Month feature events you want to try

by James Banham

Posted: 03/06/2019

Melbourne’s Custom House is about to become the hub-of-hubs for this year’s Melbourne Good Food Month. With chefs Adam Liaw, Jason Baratt and Nick Mahlook on hand, there’ll be a series of unique dining events that await any hungry foodie. Here’s what’s on: Adam Liaw x Keita Abe When: Wednesday, 12 June, 6:30pm How much: $170 Adam Liaw, television host of Destination Flavour and author of five incredible cookbooks, is inviting Melburnians on a cultural and culinary journey, with Keita Abe from Sydney institution, Chaco Bar. Abe is the master of yakitori, cultivating a cult following with his famous meat skewers, inspired by his native city of Fukuoka, Japan. Tickets include multiple courses with premium wines and beer supplied by James Squire. The Good Food Editor’s Dinner presented by David Jones When: Friday, 14 June, 6:30pm How much: $170 National Good Food Editor Ardyn Bernoth and Chief Restaurant Critic Gemima Cody have assembled the who’s who of the industry, sharing their insights and anecdotes into the wonderful world of food – Jason Barratt, head chef of Halcyon House’s two-hatted restaurant Paper Daisy, Nick Mahlook, whose ocean-to-plate philosophy keeps Melbourne’s The Atlantic Group very busy, and Nikki To, the woman behind the famous food images in the business and the person Australia’s top chefs call when they want to elevate a dish into an icon. Young Chefs Lunch with Marco Pierre White presented by Citi When: Saturday, 8 June 1:30pm In this special event, Marco Pierre White will host a four-course lunch, prepared by four hotly tipped stars of Melbourne’s culinary scene – Jessica… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: food guide Melbourne, Good Food Melbourne, good food month, melbourne food, melbourne good food month, the f melbourne

Melbourne Good Food & Wine Show: What to see this June

by James Banham

Posted: 01/06/2019

On until 2 June in Melbourne, the Melbourne Good Food and Wine Show is on again, pumping out morsel-after-morsel of deliciousness for visitors and locals alike. It’ll bring together some of Australia’s most loved chefs, alongside over 250 exhibitors (120+ cheeses, over 800 wines, and more!), and a range of masterclasses for visitors to take part in and enjoy. The show moves on to Sydney from 21-23 June, but before it does, head on down to see these guys doing their delicious thing. Pinchy’s The champagne and lobster bar in Emporium, will be hosting its first Pop-Up at GFWS, exclusive to the Melbourne Show! Pinchy’s operates under a traceable, sustainable process, distribution and production line, and focuses on a higher quality product. They work directly with fisheries in Maine and Alaska, where their world-leading international and environmental standards preserves the resources and offers the best quality and taste. Emperor’s Champagne Parlour A first for the GFWS, the new Parlour is space dedicated to champagne in all its glory, and will feature the Champagne Dame, Kyla Kirkpatrick as a host throughout the weekend. Kyla will teach guests about the history of champagne, the different types, and the best ways to drink champagne (caviar included!). The Parlour will also feature the Emperor Champagne Truck, and Emperor’s newest beverage addition, Charles Collin (which launched two weeks ago) will be available only through Emperor (both during the event and in general). Glenfiddich The Good Food and Wine Show marks the beginning of a nation-wide Whiskey Wanderer tour, including the exclusive look at the… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: Food wine, Good Food Wine Show, melbourne food blog, Melbourne food wine show, Melbourne Good Food Wine Show, the f food blog, the f melbourne

Chinese Terracotta Warriors on display with Cai Guo-Qiang’s ‘The Transient Landscape’ at Melbourne’s NGV

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

It was back in December that news the Chinese Terracotta Warriors were coming to Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria and now, the time’s come. Presented alongside of one of the most exciting Chinese contemporary artists of our time, Cai Guo-Qiang, the Terracotta Warriors are back at the NGV for the second time in history, for the enjoyment of art lovers who’re after a journey through history and a celebration of contemporary Chinese art. Cai Guo-Qiang’s exhibition, The Transient Landscape, is a presentation of all new art works inspired by his home country’s culture and its enduring philosophical traditions, including a monumental installation of 10,000 suspended porcelain birds. It’s quite epic to see. Exclusive to Melbourne and presenting nearly 170 works, the exhibition will offer a new perspective on Chinese culture, past and present and features 8 life-size Terracotta Warriors and monumental new works by Cai Guo-Qiang including, Murmuration (Landscape) 2019. See the exhibition at the NGV International from 24 May 2019 – 13 October 2019. Terracotta Warriors: Guardians of Immortality | Cai Guo-Qiang: The Transient Landscape from NGV on Vimeo.

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: cai guo qiang, Chinese Terracotta Warriors, Melbourne Gallery, national gallery victoria, ngv, NGV International, ngv melbourne, terracotta warriors, the f melbourne, the f ngv

MELBOURNE: Winter got sweeter with the igloo garden at Auburn Hotel, Hawthorn

by James Banham

Updated: 13/06/2019

Date night, work dinner, need a drink, or just ‘cos, the Winter Igloo Garden at the Auburn Hotel in Hawthorn is there for it – and doing it well. Caged, steel igloos fill the back courtyard of the colonial days hotel along Auburn Road, adding a haunting, but super cute arrangement to the otherwise incredibly ornate 100+ year-old hotel. It’s a trendy take on traditional outdoor dining, giving guests shelter from the cold of winter, while keeping warm by sucking back Wild Turkey‘s American Honey bourbon. A sweet treat as well as an alcoholic smack in the gob you know you want, the American Honey bottle isn’t often seen, but ticks all the boxes of what you’re after from a drink in the middle of winter. It’s warming (‘cos bourbon), but sweetened in a dangerously morish way, thanks to the honey. The Wild Turkey folks and the Auburn Hotel have even partnered with the good, bee-loving people at Melbourne City Rooftop Honey to pair with their American Honey hot toddy, espresso martini, honey julep, old fashioned – the list goes on. Igloo packages cater to those looking for something cosy and intimate in a communal dining space, with larger group sizes of up to 28 people able to enjoy private seating and cocktail events in the mega igloo. The menu, inspired by the smooth, sweet flavour of American Honey, includes a selection of cured meats and cheeses drizzled in honey, followed with dessert, a chocolate honeycomb fondue. All designed to be paired with American Honey… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: American Honey bourbon, Auburn Hotel Hawthorn, THE F American Honey, THE F Auburn Hotel Hawthorn, the f blog, the f food blog, the f melbourne, THE F Wild Turkey, wild turkey, Winter igloo Auburn Hotel Hawthorn, Winter igloo Melbourne

Dumplings and art: Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria joins with Hutong Dumpling Bar for winter Friday Nights series

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

The NGV’s Friday Night Series is back again and this time; they’re doing dumplings. Appropriate for a city like Melbourne to shine a light on its awesome cuisine and art, coming together in one culmination of sensational experience for locals and visitors alike. And only ’til 12 October. As part of the new collaboration, Melbourne’s Hutong Dumpling Bar takes over NGV’s Gallery Kitchen for the 2019 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces NGV Friday Nights series, transforming it into a Shanghai-inspired dumpling bar. It’ll all involve a Friday night feature headline act, showcasing the best of Australia’s vibrant and diverse musical talent. This season’s headliners include performers such as self-made Melbourne performer Maribelle, soulful Sydney vocalist Thandi Phoenix, Brisbane’s Young Franco, Sydney’s NGAIIRE and songwriter and producer GRAACE. Here’s what’s on… NGV Friday Nights full line-up: Friday 31 May – Husky Friday 7 June – Amaya Laucirica Friday 14 June – NGAIIRE Friday 21 June – Approachable Members Of Your Local Community Friday 28 June – Sloan Peterson Friday 5 July – I Know Leopard Friday 12 July – Sui Zhen Friday 19 July – Adrian Eagle Friday 26 July – Rainbow Chan Friday 2 August – Kira Puru Friday 9 August – Hobsons Bay Coast Guard Friday 16 August – CLYPSO Friday 30 August – Slum Sociable Friday 6 September – The Audreys Friday 13 September – Maribelle Friday 20 September – LÂLKA Friday 27 September – GRAACE Friday 4 October – Thandi Phoenix Friday 11 October – Yumi Zouma Saturday 12 October – Young Franco Head to the NGV on any Friday of choice… Read More

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: Art blog, Australian art blog, Hutong Dumplings, Hutong dumplings Melbourne, Hutong Melbourne, ngv, the f art, THE F Hutong, the f melbourne, THE F National Gallery Victoria, the f ngv

Burger wrappers in the NGV: Celebrate life’s banality with artist Darren Sylvester

by James Banham

Posted: 16/01/2019

The dude known for his consumption by consumerism who then turned it into art, Darren Sylvester, has an exhibition on at the National Gallery of Victoria from 1 March to 30 June 2019. From a pulsating coloured dance floor based on an Yves Saint Laurent makeup range, to a chaise lounge upholstered in cheeseburger wrapping, more than 70 of Darren Sylvester’s works – known for their pop culture and multinational brand references – will be on display at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV. The exhibition is called Darren Sylvester: Carve A Future, Devour Everything, Become Something and reveals the artist’s ongoing fascination with consumerism, the banality of everyday life, love and mortality, which he presents in a playful way. On show will be 43 of Sylvester’s hyper-colourful photographs, all an homage and commentary on pop culture, music and advertising as a way of exploring the ways in which everyday life is shaped by branding. Also, a gigantic YSL make up compact lit-up dancefloor interpretation will be one o the stars of the show, thanks to its colour scheme that is ‘proven’ by market research to appear flattering. Darren is a Melbourne man now, having made the move from Sydney in ’74. See his exhibition at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square, Melbourne from 1 March 2019 – 30 June 2019. Entry is free at NGV.MELBOURNE.

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: Australian arts blog, Darren Sylvester, melbourne arts, Melbourne arts blog, national gallery of victoria, ngv, Sydney arts blog, the f melbourne, THE F National Gallery of Victoria, the f ngv, the-f

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