Page 182 - Guildhall Coverage Book 2020-21

27 April 2021
The Culture of the Thames

With world-famous boat races, regal
palaces and large-scale art installations,
the shores of the River Thames are
bursting with unique activities and royal
heritage.

From world-famous boat races and regal
palaces to large-scale art installations, the
shores of the River Thames are bursting
with unique activities and royal heritage.
And with major events this year including
Illuminated River and Estuary 2021,
there’s no time like now to start dreaming
of a future trip along its banks.

Illuminated River and Estuary 2021
Illuminated River will continue to light up London’s waterways this spring, with five new
bridges joining the long-term installation already in place on four of the city’s most iconic
river crossings. More than three miles of orchestrated, multi-coloured lights will transform
Blackfriars, Waterloo, Golden Jubilee, Westminster and Lambeth Bridges, creating the
world’s longest public art commission. There will also be a number of digital extras to enjoy,
including free, downloadable music scores from students of Guildhall School of Music and
Drama, to enhance the experience.

Celebrating the second edition of the event, Estuary 2021 is a large-scale arts festival held
along the Thames Estuary in Essex and North Kent. Running from 22 May to 13 June, the
festival promises a riot of art, music, literature and film events celebrating the landscape,
heritage and local communities of the river. Held online and in Covid-safe venues, and led
by a partnership between Metal and Cement Fields, one highlight includes newly
commissioned chapters and artists’ interpretations of Tom King’s book Thames Estuary
Trail: A Walk around the End of the World. Marking its 20th anniversary this year, the book
brings the entire coastline to life in glorious detail and promises to inspire any adventurers on
their next trip along the Thames.

Visuals arts on the South Bank
Future visitors to London can discover a wide variety of cultural highlights at the Southbank
Centre and the Royal Festival Hall. One of London’s best-known music venues, the hall
promises an annual calendar of events ranging from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge
modern performances. Alternatively, those seeking world-class art can get inspired at the
centre’s Hayward Gallery, with 2021 set for major exhibitions from film maker Matthew
Barney and artist Igshaan Adams, whose sculptures are inspired by indigenous dance.

Film buffs can explore the BFI Southbank, a hub for important cinematic work showcasing
new titles, cult classics and international film across four screens. Meanwhile, art fans
hungry for more can head to the Tate Modern. Considered to be one of the top
contemporary art museums in the world, in 2021 it will welcome unmissable installations
including Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms, abstract artist Sophie Taeuber-Arp's