- Russian and French Masterpieces at the Royal Academy of Arts
After much to-ing and fro-ing of the frosty diplomatic variety, From Russia: French and Russian Master Paintings 1870 – 1925 arrived at the Royal Academy of Arts. Off we went, tot in tow. It’s a fantastic exhibition and one that belongs in such hallowed halls as the illustrious Royal Academy of Arts.
In the absence of a willing sitter to look after your little tsar (or tsarina) – and when you feel a justifiable desire to enjoy some amazing Russian Realism or works by the great Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters – here’s some practical advice:
- This is a great exhibition for a babe in a baby Bjorn. If your tot is really small, take advantage and get out there. If you’re up for it, you should be out and about soaking up all that London has to offer while you’re still in control.
- Plan your timing carefully to coincide with the older tot’s mood (or better yet, nap time) – you’ll be far happier poring over Russian masterpieces if your own little masterpiece allows.
Arrive early to avoid the crowds. The exhibition is very popular so avoid the queues by booking your tickets in advance (see the website for details, availability on the weekends is very limited) and choose to visit early morning before the halls are filled with octogenarian art-lovers. While some of the tuts may be of the grandparent (friendly) variety, a lot of these folk still believe children should be seen and not heard (and not necessarily seen in an art gallery).- Bring a bottle (or a box of treats) to keep the tot quiet if things get rough.
- Adjust your expectations. Gone are the days of studying each brush stroke. You can’t and won’t see it all, so focus on enjoying a few works rather than rushing past every one, or enjoy seeing them through your tot’s eyes.
Follow this advice and you don’t need to fear a frosty reception or a cold war. (If you need warming up, you could always head to Fortnum and Mason …).
From Russia: French and Russian Master Paintings 1870 – 1925 from Moscow and St. Petersburg is at the Royal Academy of Arts until 18 April 2008. Tickets cost £11 (free for members) and can be bought online or by phoning 08708488484. Tickets can also be bought from the Ticket Office daily.
What Mini says:
You should have seen her preparing for this one … you would have thought she was a secret agent!
What Moi thinks:
… maybe I am …
