Friday 12 September 2008

Gehry's Magic


The task was to go to an area in London where I haven't been before armed with £10 to find something interesting to buy. After wandering the streets for the best part of the day it ended in a relaxing manner seated underneath a Pavilion, which is the latest star studded 'Architectural' addition to pass through Hyde park. Yes this new Pavilion was commissioned by the Serpentine who "sets out to realise the architect's vision for the project as they conceived it." This whole process took six months from the initial invitation to the on site completion. As I have never been to the Serpentine Gallery before I was unaware that a famous architect/designer is invited every year to contribute. This year Hyde Park has been blessed with a bit of Frank Gehry magic. The American Architect in partnership with Arup have created a de-constructive style pavilion, which is for me an elaborate 'chaotic' statement, that provides visual interest and harmony with its immediate surroundings. The ambient but quiet mood nearly had me falling asleep on the massive sections of built up timber (Maybe because I've been walking around all day) and generally this is a great pit stop for an afternoon tea or coffee. Looking forward to next year already!!!

So, what did i spend my £10 allowance on to encapsulate my experience?

I decided to buy a small book from the Serpentine book shop for £8 and dropped the change in their donations box.

Overall, it was worth all the walking.

Peace

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