Somerset House brings all the fun of the fair to its courtyard
The Somerset House courtyard has become a staple of the winter calendar with its picturesque ice rink and warming cocktails. But a new summer installation by artist-architect Yinka Ilori could make it one of the most sought-after summer hangouts, too.
The huge courtyard has been transformed into a “a joyful spectacle of colour, sound and energy” featuring retro bumper cars, bars, food stalls and Covid-safe spaces to soak in the sun.
There will also be a series of special events, including ”Dodge Lates”, “Bump & Brunch” and DJs slots.
The highlight, though is the dodgems, which are just as fun as you remember them being, and pelting into your mates after a few cocktails promises to be every bit as fun as careering across a sheet of ice.
Yinka Ilori is an artist, architect and designer whose works draw inspiration from his British-Nigerian heritage. He started his career upcycling furniture and his distinctive visual style is evident across the Somerset House Courtyard, which is awash with bold swathes of colour and cleverly designed social pods.
The event will run until 22 August and is open from Tuesday to Sunday – for more information visit the Somerset House website here.
For more information on Ilori check out his website here.
While you’re at Somerset House you should also take No Comply: Skate Culture and Community, a free exhibition “exploring the phenomena of skateboarding and the impact of its culture and communities on the UK over the past 45 years”. Read more about it here.