The Butts Area Guide

This interactive panel discussion brings together two artists (Ania Ruszkowski [https://www.aniaruszkowski.com/] andZofia Wyszomirska-Noga [https://wyszomirska-noga.com/]) whose work is shaped by Polish heritage and the lived realities of Anglo-Polish identity. Olga Topol, curator of Slavonic and East European Collections at The British Library, will facilitate the discussions and contribute her experiences alongside Ania and Zofia. Through storytelling, artworks, and shared reflections, the panel explores how cultural memory, displacement, hybrid belonging, and language are expressed visually. More than a traditional talk, this session invites audience participation, live questions, and mini reflection activities to build dialogue and deepen mutual understanding.

Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 326 acres of stunning rare plants from around the world. Discover the Azalea Garden, Minka House, Bamboo Garden, and more at Kew Gardens, including the majestic 10-storey Pagoda and the Rhizotron. Immerse yourself in the tropical oasis of Temperate House, home to a stunning collection of African plants and sub-tropical trees and palms. Admission to Kew Gardens Entrance Ticket. Explore 326 acres of flora worldwide. Walk through tranquil gardens, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Guided tours available to enhance your experience. Marvel at the diverse plant collection throughout. Wheelchair accessible. Infants and small children in prams/strollers. Service animals welcome. Public transport nearby. Suitable for all fitness levels. Customers under 16 need adult accompaniment. Black Friday.hidden-word { display: none; }

Come and join us at Boston Manor House for a workshop filled with fun, creativity and culture! Think florals and rural scenesall cut by hand using simple scissors and plenty of imagination. This in-person event will showcase the art of Polish paper cutting (wycinanki), inspired by Boston Manor House's current community exhibition My Country is My Home: The Polish Community in the United Kingdom. In this relaxed session, youll learn about the history behind the craft, the tools and techniques used, and why so much of it is inspired by nature. Then, youll create your own piece to take home. Try your hand at intricate designs inspired by the seasons and Boston Manor House's interiors as you immerse yourself in the world of paper art. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a curious beginner, this event is perfect for anyone with a passion for creativity and an interest in Polish culture. Led by Alexandra Lunn [https://www.alexandralunn.com/], founder ofWell Crafted [https://www.instagram.com/ well crafted /], who first learnt the art of wycinanki from her Babcia (Polish grandmother) and during her travels across rural Poland. Suitable for all ages. Please note all children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Nutcracker Produced by The Arts Centre, Hounslow Get ready for The Nutcracker like you've never seen it before with dancing, giggling, and LOTS of joining in! This isn't a sit-still-and-be-quiet show. Oh no! We've got snowflakes to catch, characters to chase, and a whole lot of festive fun waiting for little ones aged 26 (grown-ups welcome too!). It's the perfect first trip to the theatre full of wonder, wiggles, and Christmas magic. Come play with us!

Vincent Van Gogh died in 1890, John Lennon died in 1980, both of gunshot wounds to the chest. But imagine what might have happened had the two greatest artists of their time met? This hypothetical meeting between John Lennon and Vincent van Gogh is the premise of a new play by actor and writer Nick Wilkes. Vincent van Gogh was a nineteenth-century Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who is among the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. John Lennon was an English singer, songwriter, musician and peace activist who gained worldwide fame with The Beatles. Around five years before their deaths both men went through profound change. Vincent van Gogh finally renounced his religious ambitions and began to paint in earnest, and despite great arguments with antagonist Paul Gaugin created his lifes great masterworks. John Lennon renounced sex, drugs and rock & roll and began five years seclusion as a family unit, and despite great arguments with antagonist Paul McCartney created a son, and what would be his last album. This play takes place at their exact moment of crisis and decision, exploring love, death, art and legacy.

The legendary Barnes Charity Ball is back this time celebrating all things Barnes with the title Proud to be Barnes. Having travelled around the globe with various different themes over the years, we are now looking to recognise and embrace all the wonderful talent and resources we have right on our doorstep here in Barnes, with contributions from local entertainers, musicians, caterers, photographers, DJs, printers and other local busineses. The Ball will once again take place in the beautiful setting of St Marys Church which will be appropriately adapted and will include a drinks reception, entertainment, Diamond Raffle as well as our fabulous live and silent auction prizes raising money for very worthy local charities. Tables of 10 are available at the special price of 1125 giving 10% saving on the single ticket price of 125. Applications forms for booking tables can be obtained from [email protected].