Jeff Koons in London
After hearing that Jeff Koons's artwork was being exhibited in London, I jumped at the chance to see it as I seemed to keep missing his shows when they were on in other cities. Jeff Koons is one of the most important artists of the late 20th century, focusing on themes including mass culture, interpretations of beauty, and mass culture. This show is at the Newport Street Gallery, a beautiful gallery tucked away in South London. It's been beautifully curated in light, white, airy rooms.
Koons's art is whimsical, colourful, and bright, featuring many of his inflatable themed artworks. It is incredible to see up close because what looks like blow-up animals and objects in plastic are really made out of stainless steel. Even when you're up close knowing this information, it's difficult to tell that they are made out of these materials and you'll think your mind or eyes are deceiving you.
A quick note for people thinking about bringing children: one of the exhibition rooms contains artwork from his 'Made in Heaven' series, which is highly sexually explicit. It's self-contained though and you can avoid it walking through this room. Just keep a hold of them so they don't inadvertently run ahead into it.
It's showing until October 16, 2016, so don't wait too long to check it out!
After exploring the show, we came across the Pharmacy 2 Bar and Restaurant, which we had completely forgot was there but have been meaning to visit. Designed by Damien Hirst in collaboration with Mark Hix, no detail has been left out in its decor, from the tablet-topped stools to medicine cabinets to the mock-pharmacist shelves. It's the perfect place to stop for a cup of tea or cocktail after enjoying some art, or visit on a Saturday night where they have recently started to have evenings with a DJ.
