Before leaving the Victoria and Albert Museum, we pop into the What Is Luxury? exhibition . . . Having collaborated for more than 10 years making functional sculpture with my late partner Rick Hubbard, I am quite interested in the context of this show and I am delighted that the curator describes luxury production as both an investment in time and in the process of perfecting skills. |
"Makers of luxury are inspired by passion and curiosity for the intricate nature of objects, the potential of materials, and complex techniques . . . Making luxury is not concerned with practical solutions but with the extraordinary, non-essential and exclusive. Mastery of a craft and exceptional expertise are demonstrated by outstanding precision, attention to detail and remarkable finishes . . . The resulting work combines high levels of innovation with a respect for craft traditions."
Feeling peckish after viewing the Alexander McQueen and What Is Luxury? exhibitions, we stopped at Aubaine for lunch on Brompton Road. For me a quinoa salad with grilled halloumi cheese.
Weaving through the small side streets of Chelsea, we pass interesting boutiques — some of which we pop into — making our way to Kings Road for a bit of shopping at Muji before arriving at the Chelsea Physic Garden.
Founded in 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden was the Apothecaries' Garden to train apprentices in plant identification. Located across the street from the Thames River provides a warmer microclimate that allows for non-native plants such as the largest outdoor fruiting olive tree in Britain.
Tired, we hired an Uber car to whisk us to Mayfair to meet Mora and Lynn for dinner at Veeraswamy, a classical Indian restaurant that opened in 1926. Arriving early, we popped in next door for a cocktail.
The interior of Veeraswamy was described to us as "Raj-style." It is elegant and oh-so comfortable after walking, exploring and photographing all day! Everything sounded so incredible — we each opted for the four course tasting menu. Great decision! ! !
The interior of Veeraswamy was described to us as "Raj-style." It is elegant and oh-so comfortable after walking, exploring and photographing all day! Everything sounded so incredible — we each opted for the four course tasting menu. Great decision! ! !