4 brilliant things to do this October

Get your culture fix this month by enjoying a Mexican fiesta, a bespoke afternoon tea and much more besides

Credit Jon Lee

Immerse yourself in a Mexican festival at Kew

Visit Royal Botanic Garden Kew’s stunning Temperate House this month, where the fascinating biodiversity to be found in Mexico is celebrated. On show will be an array of art installations honouring the country’s culture, including a giant chandelier inspired by the Day of the Dead, and larger-than-life golden ‘sloths’ conceived by designer Fernando Laposse. There will also be a special family fiesta over half-term, and opportunities to visit after hours, with cocktails and live performances on offer.

kew.org

Experience a new channel for artistic ideas

Somerset House has just launched a new online space that promises to celebrate a whole host of creativity, from newly commissioned films such as The Story Cycle by Turner Prize-nominated multimedia artist Sin Wai Kin to documentaries exploring everything from climate change to colonialism. There are also behind-the-scenes looks at the practices of resident artists who create from their studios at Somerset House. All of this amazing content is available to stream for free.

channel.somersethouse.org.uk

Afternoon Tea, Yinxa Ilori

Enjoy a fabulous afternoon tea designed by Yinka Ilori

London-based artist and designer Yinka Ilori is known for his joyful, vibrant work, which can be found in public art installations and collaborations with the likes of Lick paint and the Red Cross. His latest endeavour sees him take over afternoon tea at the luxurious Bulgari Hotel London in Knightsbridge, to celebrate the establishment’s 10th anniversary. The usually understated entrance now has a display installed with a riot of colour, and guests can tuck into delectable treats inspired by the artist’s designs, delivered on bespoke cake stands. If you’d like to discover more about Ilori and his work, see our upcoming winter issue of The Arts Society Magazine, for our exclusive interview with him.

bulgarihotels.com

Still from The Directors / Credit: Courtesy the artist and Artangel

Understand psychosis through amazing new films

Artist Marcus Coates has produced five new short films – The Directors – that engage with individuals recovering from psychosis, in which he attempts to understand the misinformation and stigma surrounding the condition. Rather than featuring the individuals in question, each film takes the position of director, while the artist re-stages a particular episode of their life in a significant location. The films will be screened in Pimlico and Churchill Gardens Estate until 30 October and are presented thanks to support from Artangel.

artangel.org.uk