Set within the beautiful surrounds of Hyde Park are two galleries (known collectively as Serpentine) which offer fabulous exhibition spaces which have hosted retrospectives of the works of Man Ray, Henry Moore, Andy Warhol, Paula Rego, Anish Kapoor and Damien Hirst, to name but a few.
The galleries, known as Serpentine South (previously called the Serpentine Gallery) and Serpentine North (formerly Serpentine Sackler Gallery) also have fascinating architectural histories. The south building is a Grade II listed former tea pavilion which was built in 1933–34 by the architect James Grey West (who was also working on the Duveen Wing of the National Portrait Gallery at the same time). The north building is a Grade II* listed former magazine which was built in 1805 and used as a gunpowder store. The galleries are connected by a bridge over the Serpentine Lake.
Since 2000, Serpentine has commissioned a temporary pavilion to be built, within a strict budget, by a leading architect within the grounds of Serpentine South each year. The structure remains for three months in the summer when it plays host to art and cultural events. Of significant importance in the world of architectonics, it has become one of the top ten most-visited architectural and design exhibitions in the world. This year’s pavilion is entitled Black Chapel and was designed by Chicago-based Theaster Gates who has drawn inspiration from a variety of structures from around the world. Central to the design is the bronze bell which was salvaged from Chicago’s Catholic church St. Lawrence; the bell is sounded to mark the start of the pavilion’s performances.
Serpentine is a scenic walk from Hertford Street, through Hyde Park. Do check their website to see what’s on during your stay.
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