A true sale bargain - two for the price of one!

Filling up the lazy days betwixt Christmas and the new year (whilst the showroom boiler has been malfunctioning) has been something of an ordeal I can tell you Dear Reader. A few short personal window appearances aside (well I wouldn't usually do sale, but the lack of radiator action drove me out), I also took the opportunity to visit a number of fabulous exhibitions and see some truly spectacular shows.

Sales are actually quite vulgar in Miss Mannequin's opinion, But take a tip from me (And I like to think I'm in the know), for a genuine 24-carat SALE bargain. The Design Museum just south of Tower Bridge is currently showing two great exhibitions, FOR WHICH THEY WILL CHARGE YOU ONLY ONCE!

"John Pawson - Plain Space" (open until 30th January) is a super insight into the projects of this brilliant architect who defined a style and set the pace for so many interior designers and stylists who followed. His influence even tipped over into the fashion arena where minimalistic clothing following his strictly outlined aesthetic.

Alongside houses and retail spaces, his redoubtable skills saw the conception and build of an astounding monastery in the Czech Republic and outdoor structures, most notably the Sackler crossing in Kew Gardens. Simplicity, clarity and a decisive vision can be clearly detected in the many designs and models on show. Miss Mannequin peeked over the dinky back fence of his Georgian London house and was delighted by the opportunity to take an eye-squinting Gulliver style tour of his home without getting caught in the act!



Miss Mannequin  stood on tippy toe and peered over the back fench to bring you this exclusive snap of the inside of John Pawson's house.
(Note: no smelly old rubbish sacks languishing in his back garden!)

Downstairs meanwhile,the "Drawing Fashion" exhibition (which ends 6th march) further thrilled Miss M, with a divine history of the illustrative art of fashion plates from the early 20th century masters through the golden age and forward into the current millenium. Erte, George Lepape and Rene Grau originals were on show, alongside those of many, many other notably talented illustrators.

Videos further enhanced the experience; François Berthoud's awesome lino prints for McQueen and Antonia Lopez speaking from his studio particularly caught my attention. Looking forward; Miss M adored new work by Aurore de La Morinerie.

Go see and grab this true bargain BOGOF (that's buy one get one free to you)!

Let me know which other exhibitions caught your eye this year.

So until next year, toodle-pip and happy hogmanaying

Miss Mannequin

x

Casa del Bottere - scale model of the chapel

(My Blue Peter models never looked this good! - Miss M)

Casa del Bottere scale models - to test light effects at different times of day

Dressed to thrill....F&M, a Christmas tradition

This week, after completing her epic Christmas card mail out (lucky you, if you received one), Miss Mannequin got in touch with her festive spirit whilst doing a spot of shopping in London's West-end (well Piccadilly actually). 

My charming chauffeur Mark dropped me off at the corner of Fortnum and Mason's (in order that I could pop in for a pudding)! The front windows were of course stunning as always, this year depicting various works of art cleverly brought to life by the store's talented window trimmers. Gorgeous. What also struck me were the breathtaking side windows. I was captivated and entranced by the intricate enchanted forest theme, featuring layer upon layer of clever backdrops, propping and styling which led you on a journey through magical scenes. Look closely and you will find; a mouth watering feast set on a grand table full of epicurean treats, a cosy fireplace and library in the midst of an intricate collection of treasures (concentrate hard and you may even notice a short sighted owl wearing spectacles) and if you are following your map correctly dear reader, you will come across a secret boudoir filled with chic delights that Miss Mannequin would be delighted to find in her Christmas stocking! I telephoned Visual Director Paul Symes to find out more. Apparently, this side run of windows had been designed by his right hand lady, Sallie Greenhill. Working with a very slim budget, she spent four months of sketching, sourcing and prop-building to assemble this visual treat, whilst he concentrated on the art-themed front run. Creatively thought through and with a charming ambience, I feel sure you will agree than Sallie (and of course Paul) has done a fantastic job. Do pop by ... and let me know about other Xmas windows you have found inspiring.

Greetings of the Season!

Miss Mannequin would like to wish you all

the Seasons Greetings

we hope your Christmas installations have all been a huge success ....

sale is a few weeks off, so kick back and enjoy the festivities .... i know i will!