A Mid-Summer's Night Gala

This year’s ever popular AIA UK Summer Gala was held on 21st of June (mid-summer) in the enchanting conservatory terrace at the Barbican. The Mid-Summer Night’s theme, honouring the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare, echoed in the raffle prizes which included a themed experience at The Globe Theatre, London Eye tickets, furniture and many more generous donations from AIA UK sponsors. Prizes were entertainingly raffled this year, with sales proceeds supporting the work of the chapter.

Dinner was served a’la carte via “street food” stalls set up around the terrace and allowed guests to wander the gardens whilst enjoying their food and drinks. It was a rare beautiful day following a string of rainy days; the enclosed terrace must have insured against the rain. Guests enjoyed a beautiful sunset through the glazed interior, and were able to socialise with a wide variety of industry professionals.

Guests proclaimed the Gala a huge success. To improve upon it in the future, we would like to offer reduced entry tickets for emerging professionals, and invite guests from an even wider variety of professionals including developers and potential clients.

EXHIBITION TOUR: THE WORLD OF CHARLES AND RAY EAMES

Image: Tristan Fewings - Getty Images

Over 40 people turned out for the AIA UK’s private tour of The World of Charles and Ray Eames at the Barbican Art Gallery. Curator Charlotte Dew provided two groups with a more in depth history and examination of the exhibit, taking us through the early days of Eames’ collaboration through their trials and successes and imminent stardom. Fortunately our group had sufficient time to enjoy such an extensive exhibit, spread over two floors and many rooms.

The exhibit explores the lives of these two visionary American designers, with over 380 original works – hand sketches, graphic designs, early bent plywood projects and proto-types, multi-media communication concepts and of course chairs! Working in the post-war era of modernism, the exhibit examines the importance of their work and the timeless quality of their designs. With a wealth of materials from their private archives, viral-quality videos from Herman Miller, and even a newly constructed model of their infamous house in California, the exhibit presents a well-rounded profile of these two internationally celebrated designers.

The AIA UK Chapter will be planning more of these private tours, following this success. However, if you could not make it to see The World of Charles and Ray Eames with us this time, you should book your tickets before the exhibit closes in February. 

Image: Tristan Fewings - Getty Images

Image: Tristan Fewings - Getty Images

Image: Tristan Fewings - Getty Images

Image: Frederick Grier

Author: Frederick Grier