For the last 150 years collectors have been descending on Mayfair to acquire works from the distinguished auction houses and the diverse array of galleries that deal in everything from old masters to contemporary fare. So for the second year, Brown’s Hotel have organised a truly enlightening weekend of art events.
More than 100 galleries in Mayfair and St James’s will be open over the weekend (11am–5pm), including Sunday. Designers Paul Smith and Nicole Farhi are among the stars to devise art walks of the area (details are on the website). You can also sign up for talks at Brown’s Hotel (prices from £30) to get the lowdown on topics including how to start your own collection. And on Saturday (noon-6pm) Burlington Gardens will be a car-free zone for the Burlington Gardens Festival, a day of free talks, workshops, performances and music led by the likes of Bob & Roberta Smith and Yinka Shonibare.
This is perfect chance to discover some hidden gems in one of London’s oldest arts districts.