Georgian architecture, opulent arcades and gentlemen’s clubs have traditionally been the main draw in London’s St James’s, though recent years have seen an influx of contemporary art and design galleries, joining more historic institutions such as Christie’s and the ICA. Lured by its visual delights, Wallpaper* first joined forces with St James’s last October to offer the inaugural St James’s Art and Design Walk, highlighting our favourite shows in the area. One year on, we are back with the second iteration of the walk, even more comprehensive and diverse than the original. Here’s a preview of the new programme, scheduled for evening of Wednesday 17 October and daytime of Saturday 20 October.
We will convene at Christie’s, whose lobby is the first stop of a multi-venue exhibition by British sculptor Emily Young, for a welcome drink and an introduction from Wallpaper’s commissioning editor.
Following this we will proceed to St James’s Street for a group show of contemporary masters at Stern Pissarro, and a solo presentation by American painter Sue Williams at Skarstedt.
We then move over to Duke Street, visiting White Cube for the monumental paintings of Ethiopian-American artist Julie Mehretu, Sims Reed for original prints by pop art pioneer Derek Boschier, and Thomas Dane Gallery for the sculptures of Young British Artist Michael Landy.
Back on King Street, David Gill Gallery offers a double dose of art and design, with rooms dedicated to Cuban painter José Yaque and Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind.
Passing by St James’s Square to see more Emily Young sculptures, we head to Alan Cristea Gallery to admire a print exhibition dedicated to Anni Albers, currently also the subject of a major textile show at Tate Modern.
The walk concludes at the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA), where you’re invited for another complimentary drink at the bar while taking in the video work of Dutch duo Metahaven.
The St James’s Art and Design Walk is free of charge and open to the public – advance registration is required. Organised in association with St James’s. Click here for our interactive map with further details. §
