ABRAMOVIC’S EXHIBIT WILL BE ‘UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL’
by AMIT ROY
THE Royal Academy of Arts last week laid out its ambitious plans for 2020 that will include “a conversation across time” between Tracey Emin, perhaps best known for her My (very untidy) bed and the Norwegian painter, Edvard Munch, “whose best known work, The Scream, has become one of the most iconic images of world art”.
Edith Devaney, who will be curating Tracey Emin/Edvard Munch: The Loneliness of the Soul in November, said: “I worked with Tracey Emin in 2008. It will be great to work with her again – the first woman to hold the post of professor at the Royal Academy.”
Devaney added: “The exhibition concept was originated by the Munch Museum and will open there before coming here in a revised form. The Munch works in the exhibition have all been carefully selected by Tracey Emin and all of them come from Oslo. Tracey’s fascination with his work goes right back to her student days. She has said she has been in love with this man since she was 18. And this interest in one of modernism’s most significant artists has been sustained across her career.”
The performance art of Marina Abramovic might provoke even more reaction when it opens in September 2020. Members of the audience will be invited to squeeze through a narrow gap left by a naked man and a woman who stand facing each other.
Abramovic, who is 72, is considered by some to be the most important performance artist of her generation. Born in Belgrade in the former Yugoslavia (now Serbia), her work is said to explore “body art, endurance art and feminist art, the relationship between performer and audience, the limits of the body, and the possibilities of the mind”.
She will be present at the Royal Academy during her exhibition (September 26 to December 8, 2020), but at her age she is not expected to participate herself.
There was nervous laughter as the curator Andrea Tarsia gave details of the item in the show called Imponderabilia: “It will take place in the gallery as a live performance which will run for the duration of the exhibition as it was conceived originally. People will be able to choose whether to move through it (the gap between the man and the woman) or around it.”
Asked about audience participation at previous performances, Tarsia replied: “People did choose both – some stood back and couldn’t quite handle it. Some fairly charged through a number of times. It will be performed by young performers and there will be a process for selecting them and preparing them. And there will be a rotation.”
According to the RA, “the exhibition will be Abramovic’s first major survey in the UK, bringing together over 50 works spanning her entire career. The exhibition will explore how Abramovic captures and defines performance art through photographs, videos, objects, installations and live re-performances of her work.”
The RA’s recently appointed secretary and CEO, Axel Rüger, said the 2019 Summer Exhibition attracted 194,577 visitors and was one of its most successful.
The RA’s artistic director Tim Marlow announced that next year will “begin with one of the giants of modern art – Picasso”.
Picasso and Paper, starting in January, will be “the most comprehensive exhibition devoted to Picasso’s imaginative and original uses of paper ever to be held. Bringing together over 300 works and encompassing Picasso’s entire prolific 80-year career, this ground-breaking exhibition will focus on the myriad ways in which the artist worked both on and with paper, and will offer new insights into his creative spirit and working methods”.
There will be an exhibition, organised in collaboration with the Musée d’Orsay in Paris of 90 works by Léon Spilliaert, “a Flemish artist who remains surprisingly unknown outside of his native Belgium”.
Spring will bring Gauguin and the Impressionists: Masterpieces from the Ordrupgaard Collection. It will include masterpieces by Degas, Manet, Monet, Morisot, Pissarro, Renoir, and Sisley. The collection also features pre-Impressionists such as Corot, Courbet, Dupré and Daubigny.
July will see Cezanne: The Rock and Quarry Paintings. “Cézanne was fascinated with geology and throughout his career sought sites characterised by rocky terrain: the Forest of Fontainebleau 40 miles to the southeast of Paris; the cliffs at the bay of L’Estaque west of Marseilles; and in his native Aix-en-Provence, the rock-strewn grounds of the nearby Chateau Noir and the abandoned Bibémus quarry.”
In June, there will be an exhibition of the works of Angelica Kauffman, “one of the most successful artists of her time and a founding member of the Royal Academy. Born in Switzerland in 1741, Kauffman was recognised as a child prodigy, before receiving formal artistic training in Italy. Arriving in London in 1766, she enjoyed an unprecedented career as a history painter and portraitist before moving to Rome in 1782, where her studio became a hub of the city’s cultural life.”
In October, the RA will have an exhibition, Rita Angus: New Zealand Modernist. According to the RA, “Rita Angus (1908-1970) is justly considered one of New Zealand’s most important early modern artists. She was a pioneer in celebrating the rich and powerful landscapes of the country in a bold new way.
“Included in the exhibition will be Cass, 1936, depicting a small railway station in the Canterbury region of the South Island which challenged the prevailing attitudes to landscape painting, creating a new nationalist language that challenged long-established conventions and appealed to ordinary New Zealanders. In a 2006 public poll, Cass, 1936 was voted New Zealand’s most popular painting and has come to symbolise the natural beauty and independent spirit of the country.”
Kew Gardens will shut its iconic Palm House for up to four years
Grade I-listed building to undergo major restoration as part of net-zero strategy
Gas boilers to be replaced with modern heat pumps
Rare plant collection, including 45 endangered species, to be relocated during works
Palm House and Waterlily House will become the first net-zero glasshouses globally
Historic Palm House to undergo major upgrade
Kew Gardens will temporarily close one of its most recognisable landmarks, the Grade I-listed Palm House, for up to four years as part of an ambitious net-zero redevelopment plan. Opened in 1848, the glasshouse is home to a globally significant collection of tropical plants and houses the world’s oldest potted plant—an Encephalartos altensteinii dating back to 1775.
The Palm House, along with the neighbouring Waterlily House, will be transformed into the world’s first net-zero glasshouses through a large-scale renovation focused on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
Plans to modernise historic infrastructure
The project, submitted last week to Richmond-upon-Thames borough council, will replace ageing gas boilers—installed more than 100 years ago—with modern heat pumps. These upgrades are designed to help Kew Gardens meet its sustainability targets while preserving the conditions required to house rare tropical species.
Each pane of glass in the structure will be removed and recycled. New, more robust glazing will be fitted using advanced sealants designed to retain heat and humidity, crucial for plant survival.
The Palm House’s iron ribs will also be stripped, repaired and repainted in the original colour used when the structure first opened.
Funding for the scheme will come from a combination of grants and private investment.
Protecting rare and endangered plant life
During the renovation, the entire plant collection—comprising towering palms, passion plants, and 45 species at risk of extinction—will be carefully relocated to temporary glasshouses to ensure their survival.
Tom Pickering, head of glasshouse collections at Kew, described the project as both a dream and a major responsibility. “The aim is to make the Palm House energy efficient while retaining all the magic of what it is today in terms of planting and horticulture,” he said.
Reviving a global icon with modern innovation
Richard Deverell, director of Kew Gardens, emphasised the urgency of the work, saying: “The Palm House and Waterlily House represented the latest in design and build at the time of their construction, but they are showing serious signs of deterioration and are not at all energy efficient.”
“Without urgent work, these iconic listed buildings and the vital tropical plants they protect are at risk of being lost forever,” he added.
Deverell called the project an “epic opportunity” to combine cutting-edge technology with heritage conservation. He said architects, engineers and Kew’s horticultural team have already spent years developing and testing the features that will help secure the buildings’ future.
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Singer Anne-Marie gave an open and emotional interview on BBC Radio 2
Anne-Marie discussed the challenges of motherhood and returning to work in music
Revealed struggles with postnatal anxiety and depression after birth of daughter Seven
Praised therapy as a crucial support tool and advised others to seek help
Shared insights into life with two young children and how routines have changed her
Confirmed she will perform at the Women’s Rugby World Cup opening ceremony on 22 August
Anne-Marie opens up about motherhood and mental health
Singer Anne-Marie gave an open and emotional interview on BBC Radio 2 this morning (16 July), speaking to Scott Mills about the mental and physical challenges she has faced after becoming a mother of two. The artist, known for hits including 2002 and Friends, reflected on the impact of motherhood on her mental health and creative life.
Returning to music while raising a family
Anne-Marie revealed that adjusting to life with two children while returning to the music industry has been “really difficult”. She is mother to daughter Seven, aged one, and a baby son who is just two months old.
“Getting back into music and being a mum has been really difficult,” she said during the interview. “Having a second one, it’s like the attention spread of the two is difficult.”
Despite the challenges, she described her children as “the most beautiful little things you’ve ever seen”, adding that moments of calm—such as looking at photos of them while they sleep—make the exhaustion feel worthwhile.
Anxiety and postnatal mental health
The singer spoke frankly about how she experienced intense anxiety after the birth of her first child. “I actually had anxiety so bad when I first had Seven and I didn’t want to be left alone,” she said.
Anne-Marie admitted that she had only been aware of postnatal depression, not postnatal anxiety, until experiencing it herself. She went on to say that her postnatal depression developed around six months after Seven’s birth.
The role of therapy and learning to ask for help
Anne-Marie highlighted the importance of therapy in her recovery. First starting sessions during lockdown, she said she had periods where she paused, particularly after making her third album, believing she no longer needed support. However, after becoming a mother, she returned to therapy and now attends weekly sessions.
“I’m sorry if you saw any of the interviews where I said I don’t need you anymore,” she joked, referring to her therapist. “Can I have you back?!”
She encouraged others to reach out, saying, “Therapy is my best friend. But also tell people, because I never asked for help, and that’s why I got so tired. People think that you’re sweet when you’re pretending to be okay.”
Speaking about the lifestyle shift, Anne-Marie described how routines have become a major part of her day-to-day life. “When I think about routines, it stresses me out. If I don’t do it right, it stresses me out,” she said. “And now I have to make three meals a day to make sure she’s good, you know? So it’s all just a massive change, and now I’m in a routine that’s my life.”
She also reflected on how her body and mind have changed since becoming a mother, saying, “I look different. I feel different. My brain is rewired. I swear everything has changed.”
Looking ahead: TV, sport and live appearances
Anne-Marie also spoke about her daughter recognising her on TV, recent performances at Glastonbury, and practising karate. She confirmed she will be performing at the Women’s Rugby World Cup opening ceremony, which takes place at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland on Friday 22 August.
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The Great British Sewing Bee is back for 2025, welcoming 12 new home sewers to the sewing room
Hosted by Sara Pascoe with judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young
12 contestants will compete across 10 themed sewing challenges
Each episode features a Pattern, Transformation, and Made to Measure challenge
Opening week focuses on shaping garments including pleats and circle skirts
Sewing Bee returns with a fresh cast of home sewing talent
The Great British Sewing Bee is back for 2025, welcoming 12 new home sewers to the sewing room. Host Sara Pascoe returns to guide the competition, alongside judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young, who will evaluate each contestant’s technical ability and creative flair.
Spanning 10 weeks, the series will feature themed challenges ranging from artistic and historical references to cultural inspirations like the 1920s and Korean fashion. Contestants will face the usual trio of tasks each week: a Pattern Challenge, a creative Transformation Challenge, and a Made to Measure Challenge where garments are tailored to real models.
This week’s theme centres on “creating shape”. Contestants must sew a tie-front blouse, transform a circle skirt into a new outfit, and design a pleated dress that fits perfectly. One sewer will be awarded Garment of the Week, while another will be eliminated.
The 2025 Sewing Bee line-up
Caz Age 59 | Staffordshire | Retired After retiring from the family printing business, Caz has devoted more time to sewing, which she began at age 11. She enjoys technical sewing, including French seams and topstitching.
Kit Age 24 | Manchester | Digital marketer Kit taught themselves to sew at school and returned to the hobby at university. They create one garment per week and are drawn to turning unusual fabrics into stylish pieces.
Gaynor Age 72 | Port Talbot, Wales | Retired office manager Gaynor has sewn since the 1950s and now teaches her granddaughter. Her style is described as smart and traditional.
Jess Age 33 | London | Head of communications Jess began sewing as a child to connect with her mother and grandmother. She resumed the hobby during lockdown and continues to create her own clothing.
Órla Age 19 | Inverness | Café worker and student The youngest contestant, Órla started sewing four years ago and enjoys experimenting with both androgynous and feminine looks. She dreams of building a self-made wardrobe.
Peter Age 45 | Devon | Senior pre-construction manager Peter took up sewing after watching the show with his daughters. He focuses on practical garments and enjoys upcycling, such as turning old jackets into bags.
Glendora Age 59 | Luton | Bus driver Glendora began sewing at eight and has since made over 30 quilts. She values durability and quality in her creations.
Yasmin Age 30 | Gateshead | Research and development scientist Yasmin learned to sew from her father, who inspired her to apply to the show. She honours his memory through her sewing, including a pink zebra dress they made together.
Novello Age 66 | London | Business owner and magistrate Inspired by Blue Peter, Novello began sewing at five and received her first machine at age seven. She enjoys creating unique and personalised garments.
Dan Age 37 | Durham | Performer Dan started hand-stitching garments at 10 and now uses his sewing skills to make costumes for stage performances.
Saffie Age 32 | London | Lecturer in Product and Industrial Design Taught to knit by her great-aunt at age eight, Saffie now creates a functional and stylish wardrobe using patterns from independent designers.
Stuart Age 53 | Herefordshire | Premises manager Stuart began sewing in 2020 intending to make hats but quickly expanded his repertoire. He combines practicality with creativity in his work.
How to watch
The Great British Sewing Bee 2025 airs weekly on BBC One, beginning Tuesday 15 July at 9pm.
Tune in to see which of these talented sewers will impress the judges and make it to the final.
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The event follows recent data from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA)
Event part of South Asian Heritage Month, taking place in London
Focus on fertility challenges faced by the South Asian community in the UK
Speakers include individuals with lived experience and reproductive health experts
HFEA data reveals ethnic disparities in IVF outcomes and patient satisfaction
Aims to break taboos, encourage open dialogue, and advocate for tailored care
Fertility event aims to spotlight inequalities and cultural stigma
A landmark event during South Asian Heritage Month will explore the unique fertility challenges faced by South Asian communities in the UK. Titled Breaking the Silence – Fertility Journeys in the South Asian Community, the event will take place in London on Tuesday 5 August from 5:30pm to 8:15pm.
The panel gathering will feature individuals with lived experience of infertility, baby loss and involuntary childlessness, alongside clinicians and mental health professionals specialising in reproductive care. The goal is to open up often-silenced conversations and address disparities in access to fertility treatment and patient outcomes among South Asian groups.
Ethnic disparities in fertility treatment outcomes
The event follows recent data from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), which highlights troubling disparities in fertility treatment success. While overall IVF birth rates continue to improve, success rates for Asian patients remain lower. For those aged 18–37, the birth rate per embryo transferred is 27% for Asian patients and 25% for Black patients, compared with 33% for White patients.
The figures reflect long-standing concerns that ethnic minority patients do not receive the same quality of care or outcomes as others. Beyond clinical results, the HFEA’s National Patient Survey found that Black and Asian patients are less likely to report satisfaction with their fertility treatment.
Cultural barriers and need for tailored support
The panel event will tackle the cultural taboos and stigma often surrounding fertility within South Asian communities. Organisers hope the conversation will not only validate the emotional and social challenges many individuals face but also lead to meaningful action around culturally competent care.
Attendees will hear from those who have navigated complex fertility journeys, as well as professionals who are working to improve reproductive healthcare for ethnic minority communities. By fostering open dialogue, the event aims to break down barriers, increase awareness, and help bridge the gap in patient experience and outcomes.
Anita GuruInstagram/ _themindcoach_
More information
To attend or for further details, please get in touch with Anita Guru 📧 anita@fertilitynetworkuk.org 📞 07854 769761
For a detailed overview of the event, visit our website
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UK climate has become 'notably different' due to global warming
Met Office says UK climate has become 'notably different' due to global warming
2024 saw record-breaking heat, rainfall and early spring indicators
UK warming at rate of 0.25°C per decade; sea levels rising faster than global average
Wildlife, trees and seasonal patterns under pressure from climate shifts
Met Office confirms UK's climate is changing rapidly
The UK’s national weather service, the Met Office, has said extreme weather events are becoming the norm as the country’s climate continues to warm. Its annual State of the UK Climate report highlights a clear and accelerating trend, showing that the nation is experiencing hotter days, milder winters, and more intense rainfall than in previous decades.
Heat and rainfall records tumbling
The year 2024 brought some of the warmest conditions on record in the UK, including the warmest May and spring ever documented. February 2024 was the second warmest on record, and both December and the winter season ranked among the top five warmest since records began in 1884.
These trends are already being surpassed in 2025, with much of the country enduring a third heatwave, prompting a hosepipe ban in Yorkshire following the warmest June on record. The region, along with north-west England, was declared in drought by the Environment Agency in June.
According to the Met Office, the UK is now warming at a rate of approximately 0.25°C per decade. Between 2015 and 2024, the average temperature was 1.24°C higher than the 1961–1990 baseline.
Wetter winters, rising seas
In addition to higher temperatures, the UK is also experiencing more rainfall, particularly during the winter months. From October to March, rainfall between 2015 and 2024 increased by 16% compared to 1961–1990.
Sea levels around the UK are now rising faster than the global averageUS EPA
The period from October 2023 to March 2024 marked the wettest winter half-year in over 250 years. Flooding and storms during this period caused widespread damage, with regions such as eastern Scotland, Derbyshire, and the West Midlands receiving several times their usual monthly rainfall.
Sea levels around the UK are now rising faster than the global average, further heightening the risk of coastal flooding.
Natural world under strain
The impact of climate change on UK wildlife is increasingly visible. Spring 2024 began earlier than average, affecting 12 out of 13 seasonal events recorded by Nature’s Calendar. Frogspawn and blackbird nesting were both recorded at their earliest points since 1999.
These seasonal shifts pose serious challenges for native species such as dormice and hedgehogs. Warmer weather causes fruits and nuts to ripen earlier, leaving fewer food resources available in autumn when animals prepare for hibernation.
Adapting to future extremes
Professor Stephen Belcher, Met Office Chief Scientist, said: “The climate is likely to continue to change, and we need to prepare for the impacts this will have on the weather we experience.”
At Alice Holt forest research centre, scientists are examining which tree species may thrive in the future. Some, including California’s coastal redwoods, show promise in adapting to the UK’s evolving climate. However, many native trees are already showing signs of stress, such as reduced growth and leaf damage following droughts.
Dr Gail Atkinson, head of Climate Change Science at the centre, warned that many trees currently common in the UK may not survive the changing conditions.