Today is twelfth night: time for the tinsel to come down and the New Year’s resolutions to kick in. And these free events in London this month are a welcome break for your wallet – we salute you January 2014!
Ice Sculpting Festival, Canary Wharf – 10-12 January 2014 – The capital may be basking in distinctively mild winter right now but these intricately carved ice sculptures will certainly give you the chills. Held at London’s Canary Wharf over three days, you’ll be wowed by the icy works of art across the single block, freestyle and big block categories. And try carving your very own sculpture in the series of Masterclass sessions.
Nelson Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom, Belgravia Gallery, W1S – until 5 February 2014 – scheduled to coincide with the release of the film of the same name; this free exhibition is an absolute must. Located in Mayfair, this event features drawings by Nelson Mandela, as well as photographs of the legendary man who sadly passed away on 5 December 2013.
Images of Nature, Natural History Museum, SW7 – until February 2014 – Catch the final leg of the Images of Nature exhibition which contains both contemporary and historic artwork sourced from the Natural History Museum’s India collection. During January there are stunning works from Indian artist Sunoj D. The free to view collection closes at the end of February.
Big Garden Birdwatch, Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 – 25 January 2014 – Wander the galleries and gardens of the renowned Horniman Museum in London’s Forest Hill area which offers free entrance. And on Saturday 25th you and the whole family can take part in the RSPB organised bird count. Join the bird walk, identify species and learn more about our feathered friends. The annual count helps identify important patterns and species counts.
Juice Vocal Ensemble, National Portrait Gallery, WC2H – 31 January 2014 – There’s nothing like some free music to blow the cobwebs away and the harmonies of the Juice Vocal Ensemble are an aural delight. The female trio wow crowds the world over with their jazz, folk and pop inspired tunes.
Andy Warhol: Photographs from 1976 to 1987, Photographers’ Gallery, W1F – from 17 January 2014 – The iconic artist Andy Warhol is the subject of this fascinating photographic exhibition. There are a comprehensive selection of photos featured including stitched and everyday snaps. The winter fun in London continues!
Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, National Gallery, WC2N – from 25 January 2014 – Two of Vincent Van Gogh’s legendary Sunflower paintings make an appearance in London this month. As part of a five piece collection, the duo have not been exhibited together in the capital for 65 years. The oil on canvas were created in 1888 by the Dutch master. The fascinating exhibition also offers an insight into the painter’s life.
Pearls Exhibition, V&A Museum, SW7 – until 19 January 2014 – This is your last chance to catch the Pearls Exhibition at London’s esteemed V&A Museum. The beauty of these natural gems is explored alongside the associated glamour and luxury. The enthralling show traces the history of pearls from the Roman Empire.
