Serpentine Galleries

Where the river flows art goes

People get elated over anything when they hear the word ‘free’; even more so when they hear that mentioned around Kensington. But often enough, the word ‘free’ should come with a footnote that says: ‘just because it’s free, doesn’t mean it’s good’. It’s free for a reason, right? However, there are a few exceptions to the case: one example are the Serpentine Galleries. Firstly, it’s free. Secondly, they attract up to 1.2 million visitors a year – how could it not go wrong?

Named after Lake Serpentine close by, the place is hard to miss. Since 2000, every summer the area features a new installation from an architect – this time, it’s a Danish architect called Bjarke Ingels. It’s had many famous people, from the likes of Zaha Hadid in 2000, to Ai Weiwei in 2012. It’s a move probably to attract inquisitive tourists, or to inspire future designers, or to refresh long-standing customers – either way, there’s no doubt that it attracts people due to its sheer size and ostentatious nature among its green surroundings.

As impressive as it might be, that isn’t the exhibition. The Serpentine Galleries are divided into two, roughly a five-minute walk from each other. There’s the original Serpentine Gallery, which again features pieces by artists that change roughly every year. And yet, there’s a permanent installation, dedicated to Diana, Princess of Wales, who used to be a patron of the Gallery.

The other one is called the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, opened in 2013 and designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. This too features installations from artists as well – I felt each of the Galleries exuded a different aesthetic. The original Gallery had clean, white interiors; a very contemporary setting. The Sackler Gallery’s exterior exhibits a portico-style opening; this almost Georgian style therefore adds a new dimension to the whole experience. While one points to the current state of art, the other offers historic sensibilities in the field. It’s not the typical tourist destination, but one you shouldn’t miss if art and design’s your thing.

Kensington Gardens, W2 3XA

Sebastian Yim

TripTide User