On the wings of cresent moons | 2023 (Detail)
This Gorgeous Sculpture Exhibit Has Taken Over The Barbican’s Indoor Garden
Sculpture and nature collide at this unmissable exhibition that's currently on display at the Barbican Centre's adored Conservatory
By Jack Rattenbury
When it comes to hidden gems, it doesn’t get much better (or literal) than the Barbican. This urban maze of ground-breaking architecture, arts, and culture, has slowly become one of the best places in London for exhibitions, theatre productions, and beyond.
Currently, there’s a mind-bending exhibition taking over the Barbican Conservatory, their lush greenhouse that’s nestled within the brutalist icon. Witness stunning suspended sculptures hanging over the thriving indoor rainforest, and explore this fascinating collection of works by Indian sculptor Ranjani Shettar.
Entitled Cloud songs on the horizon, this is the artist’s first major show in Europe and features five brand-new, large-scale sculptures across the entirety of the Conservatory space, beautifully blending the sculptures with the source of her inspiration.
The beautiful, almost Alien-like sculptures are skillfully handcrafted, and not only inspired by the complexities of nature, but by the beloved space itself. Using a range of different materials to conjure these immersive pieces, including wood, stainless steel, muslin, and more, Shettar honed in on techniques that have been adapted from traditional Indian crafts, and the culture at large, all while respecting the space and what it means to Londoners.
On top of this, you can even experience the exhibition in the evening, with extremely rare, late-night openings on Fridays until the exhibition comes to a close. It’s also completely free making it perfect if you’re trying to look after the pennies and the pounds!