Very large lit-up conifer trees have appeared across the city for our enjoyment – we should celebrate them as they have given their lives for us. In addition, there are many other interpretive botanical works to be seen in London. We bring it all together in one map. Take the walking route suggested and in doing so visit 5 trees (4 real, one abstract), 4 plant art containing establishments (National Gallery, Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Courtauld Gallery, 3 Royal Parks (Hyde, St James’ and Green) and 2 Gardens (Leicester Sq and Grosvenor Square). It’s plants all the way basically. You can pick up the circular route at any point.
Victoria & Albert Museum
This Christmas Tree Installation currently stationed in the Grand Entrance has been designed by British fashion designer Gareth Pugh and is formed of mirror pyramids, lights and more. Dazzling! While inside it’s worth visiting the Horst retrospective with a selection of artworks from the photographer’s ‘Patterns from Nature’ series. If that wasn’t enough there’s the plants and landscapes of Constable too.
© Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Horst’s Patterns from Nature
Claridge’s Christmas Tree by Dolce & Gabbana
Currently positioned in the lobby you will find 300 glass blown baubles and italian tailor made ribbons in addition to the tree itself. They definitely know how to create a sense of christmas magic and sparkle. A great place to break the route by taking Afternoon Camellia sinensis.
Sommerset House and the Courtauld Gallery
Tree appreciation outside followed by plant art inside (followed by ice-skating if the mood takes you).
© Courtauld Gallery
Currently on display is Cezanne’s Tall Trees at the Jas de Bouffan c.1863
Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery
Sent to us by the Norwegians, this Norway Spruce currently occupies our most popular urban square. Close by is the National Gallery, so much plant art here to choose from but we recommend Room 45.
By Diliff (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons
Surprised! 1891, Henri Rousseau
Natural History Museum & Images of Nature
The tree is outside, so when inside head for the permanent exhibition Images of Nature which currently has a Women artists temporary exhibition. See some high quality botanical art here in among other natural history artworks.
