Now: China: The Three Emperors, 1662—1795
Current inspiration can be found at two of London’s most prestigious galleries. First up the Royal Academy is displaying the artistic and cultural riches of Imperial China in an exhibition called China: The Three Emperors, 1662 – 1795. It focuses on the most powerful rulers of the era with a range of Qing dynasty treasures drawn mainly from the Palace Museum, Beijing. With around 400 works to marvel at treasures include: portraits, painted scrolls, jades, precious robes, palace furnishings and ceremonial armour. Many of which have never been shown outside of China before. The exhibition is on until 17th April 2006 at the Royal Academy, Piccadilly.
Future: China in London 2006
China: The Three Emperors also marks the start of a major season of events and activities in London that will celebrate Chinese arts, culture and history. ‘China in London 2006’ will be organised through a partnership between Visit London, the London Chinatown Chinese Association and the Royal Academy of Arts. Other partners on board include the New West End Company covering Oxford and Regent Street along with many leading cultural institutions.
China in London 2006 will officially launch with the annual Chinese New Year parade – marking the Year of the Dog at the end of January. From then on you’ll find all things Chinese in the shape and form of exhibitions, film, performance, food tasting, window displays and more. The season will round off with the China Cup, a London Shanghai yacht race planned to start from Tower Bridge on 26th March 06.
Commenting on the project the Mayor said: ‘China is the most dynamic economy in the world and London is the world’s most international city. Our city can only benefit from the strongest possible business, economic, tourism and cultural links with China. China in London 2006 will celebrate that vast country’s rich cultural history and the Chinese community’s contribution to the cultural and economic life of our capital, underlining the ties that have existed between London and China over hundreds of years.’
Cultural institutions and retailers organising special events for China in London 2006 include: the Victoria and Albert Museum, Selfridges Department Store, the Natural History Museum, National Portrait Gallery, National Maritime Museum, Museum in Docklands, Chinese Cultural Centre, Stephen Lawrence Gallery, British Library and Madam Tussauds.
Now: Between Past and Future: New Photography and Video from China
Giving a taste of China today is the Victoria & Albert Museum with this look at innovative photography and video art from the region. Here a selection of young artists, many of which are new to the UK, exhibit works that reflect the dramatic waves of change that have recently affected their country.
Between Past & Future: New Photography and Video from China is on at the Victoria & Albert Museum, Cromwell Road.
Fashion Now and Fashion Future
In terms of fashion an Eastern flavour is already apparent this season with Mau collars, kimono shapes, obi belts and wrap-tie styles. Other Eastern destinations such as Japan, Thailand and Vietnam also contribute to the range of subtle details, prints and finishes. Wide kimono style sleeves reappeared on the catwalk for Spring/Summer 06, along with more obi belts, mandarin collars, frog fastenings and decorative embroidery.
Memoirs of a Geisha
Another major player in the influence camp is the film adaptation of ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ due to hit the UK early next year. Stills from the movie already reveal that it’s a visual feast on an epic scale with sumptuous colours and stunning costumes.
Eastern Promise – an influence that is set to inspire well until the end of 2006.
By JoJo Iles
