Friday 27th February: CONVERSE SCREEN TEST

Thursday 26th Feb: Yinka Shonibare "Family Album" at The William Morris Gallery

Last evening the William Morris Gallery hosted a special Q&A with Yinka Shonibare MBE about his current commissioned exhibition at the space "Family Album".  The artist explored the archives of the family's photographic portraits and chose three to re-interpret.  He put out an open-call to the residents of Waltham Forest to cast the characters and had a great response of numbers from which to conjure up the concept.  Here are the full colour prints presented next to the sepia tone originals and the costumes displayed to appreciate the detail of the dress.  Yinka's signature use of Dutch Wax Fabrics carried thru in this project, referring to Morriss's own appreciation for Indian fabrics in reference to the Indonesian origin of the West African textile.  It sits perfectly alongside the permanent collection which outlines the influence from the Indian patterns and dyeing process on Morriss's Arts & Crafts fabrics.  The point was raised that although the Victorian photographs are black and white, the real-life colour would have been bright, according to the fashion of the time.  Yinka explained how he imagined William Morris would have embraced this show's focus on inclusion of the local community.  Morris radical and revolutionary socialist preoccupation and activism is also outlined in the gallery so visitors can learn about both artists shared political motivations in their work.  Check out Yinka's site to find out about his studio's guest projects and see the gallery's schedule for more events and workshops as part of the "Family Album" season.

Photos of both the exhibition work, research books and badges in the gift shop.

Wednesday 25th Feb: Vidal Sassoon, Salonist Atelier

Over fashion week Vidal Sassoon set up a pop up salon in Soho to launch their latest home hair dye kit via this cosmic space curated by Ryan Lanji (with set design by Alex Noble and soundtrack from Jono Jury & Hannah Holland).   I LOVE the Peggy Moffitt mirrors and backwash!!!  Visitors could have their portrait taken and try out the hair colour range on their own head.  Thanks to Ryan for the photos from the installation and a few from the preparation I have pulled from Alex's own Instagram.  Follow Ryan's here to see his upcoming collaborations and curations.

Tuesday 24th Feb: Keely Hunter AW15 "Fourth World" at Headonism

A little sneak peak at the new millinery from Keely Hunter's AW15 "Fourth World" collection in the Headonism showcase at London Fashion Week ..................... on its way to Premiere Class for Paris Fashion Week.