Monthly Archives: March 2025

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

Exhibition: “Is Art Ugly, Isn’t It?”

Confronting ugliness a unique exhibition that challenges aesthetic prejudices and explores the complex relationship between beauty, violence, and art.

The exhibition “Is Art Ugly, Isn’t It?” raises a provocative and fundamental question : what is beauty? Inspired by a humorous reflection by Leon Golub and Nancy Spero on aesthetic prejudices, this collective exhibition gathers a host of contemporary artists, including Terry Atkinson, Mieke Bal, Caroline Bergvall, and many others, to dissect the conflicted relationship between aesthetics, violence, and trauma.

Photos : Danielle Arnaud Gallery/DR

Reflection on the aesthetics of violence

In a world shaped by the post-Cold War era, this exhibition addresses both timeless and contemporary issues: how can violence and trauma be artistically represented without descending into voyeurism? What artistic strategies can explore the impacts of colonialism or structural inequalities on communities and natural landscapes? These questions find their answers through a selection of works that transcend artistic and cultural boundaries.

Curated with purpose

Under the direction of Stephen Lee, an artist and writer who has exhibited in the United States and resides near London, the exhibition serves as a comparative study. Through the juxtaposition of diverse works, it aims to spark critical judgment, nurture aesthetic appreciation, and inspire innovative reflections. This visual dialogue showcases various methods, ranging from photography and video to collage and installation.

Photos : Danielle Arnaud Gallery/DR

Rich program of exchanges

To complement this immersive experience, interactive events are proposed:

Saturday, March 29, 4 PM – 6 PM : A captivating conversation between Stephen Lee and Jon Bird, exploring the issues raised by the exhibition.

Saturday, April 12, 2 PM – 5 PM: A Vietnamese community barbecue blending conviviality and informal discussions.

Invitation to reflect

Through its intellectual and visual audacity, “Is Art Ugly, Isn’t It?” promises to be much more than a mere exhibition : it is a transformative experience, blending profound reflection with subversive aesthetics.

In brief

Open exclusively by appointment, this exhibition encourages rethinking the definition of art and beauty in a context where aesthetics can convey political, social, and emotional messages.

Danielle Arnaud Gallery

123 Kennington Road, London SE11 6SF UK  

T/F: +44 (0)20 7735 8292  

contact : danielle@daniellearnaud.com  

Subway : Lambeth North (Bakerloo Line)  

Buses : 3, 59, 159, 360  

Photos : Danielle Arnaud Gallery/DR

MUSIQUE, NEWS

The Sex Pistols: A legendary punk revival in the heart of London

An electrifying resurrection at the 100 Club and the Royal Albert Hall. Punk is not dead, it’s come roaring back to life. The Sex Pistols, iconic figures of the movement, proved they still have the energy and defiance of their youth, delivering two masterful performances that will go down in history. 

The legendary 100 Club in London witnessed its walls shake for the first time in fifty years under the band’s power, while the Royal Albert Hall hosted an extraordinary event in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust. Here’s a closer look at these two unforgettable nights.

Photos : Royal Albert Hall/ Sex Pistols/Tennage Cancer Trust/Getty Images/DR

A blast of authentic punk

The atmosphere was electric on Oxford Street this past Friday night. The 100 Club, a sanctuary of punk, reclaimed its soul when Steve Jones, Paul Cook, and Glen Matlock took to the stage. Their former frontman, John Lydon, aka Johnny Rotten, was absent for the reunion, replaced by the exuberant Frank Carter, the fiery vocalist of Gallows and Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes. Carter’s trademark energy left no respite for the crowd, galvanizing a sea of stars and fans who gathered to celebrate this revival. The concert kicked off with “Holidays In The Sun,” unleashing a beer-drenched frenzy in the sweltering venue, evoking the glory days of the ’70s. Frank Carter, in a delirious connection with the crowd, climbed the club’s structures and delivered cheeky banter, amplifying the atmosphere of controlled chaos. Classics like “Pretty Vacant” and “Bodies” resonated with infectious energy, while “God Save The Queen” awakened the memories of a generation.

Photos : Royal Albert Hall/ Sex Pistols/Tennage Cancer Trust/Getty Images/DR

Between chaos and emotion

On Monday night, the Pistols reached new heights by gracing the prestigious stage of the Royal Albert Hall. The event, organized for the Teenage Cancer Trust, blended rebellious spirit with a noble cause. Preceded by energetic performances from The Molotovs and Kid Kapichi, the band opened with “Holidays In The Sun,” from their legendary album Never Mind the Bollocks. The Royal Albert Hall, more accustomed to classical symphonies, transformed into a haven of raw punk energy, with massive circle pits and moments of pure musical communion. Frank Carter, tireless as ever, dove into the crowd, spreading infectious mayhem. The finale, marked by a rendition of “Anarchy in the UK,” was elevated by the glow of phone lights, creating an almost ethereal ambiance. Frank Carter, paying a heartfelt tribute to his bandmates, declared, “These three men changed my f***ing life.”

Photos : Royal Albert Hall/ Sex Pistols/Tennage Cancer Trust/Getty Images/DR

Immortal legacy

Through these two nights, the Sex Pistols demonstrated that punk lives on across decades. Blending glorious nostalgia with new challenges, their return celebrates the undying spirit of the genre, a timeless echo that resonates in the hearts of those who embrace punk as a philosophy. In 2025, punk roars on, fueled by its living legends. As the Teenage Cancer Trust’s concert series continues, the future awaits fresh pioneers, but the Pistols’ imprint remains indelible. Their anthems will resound long into the future, inspiring both old and new rebels alike.

Photos : Royal Albert Hall/ Sex Pistols/Tennage Cancer Trust/Getty Images/DR

ART & CULTURE, MUSIQUE, NEWS

David Bowie: The “Mr. Jones’ Long Hair” Exhibition Unveils the Soul of a Genius

An immersive, poetic, and unique retrospective to celebrate the vibrant universe of the British icon. From March 22 to June 22, 2025, the MR8 Gallery will host “Mr. Jones’ Long Hair,” an exhibition inviting visitors to explore the many facets of the artistic chameleon that was David Bowie. Through music, cinema, literature, fashion, theater, and painting, this exceptional immersion promises to unveil the countless lives of the artist.

Photos : Getty Images /MR8 Gallery /Philippe Auliac /Michel Haddi /DR

Six dimensions to understand David Bowie

Conceived by David Lawrence, the exhibition is divided into six main themes, each revealing an aspect of the legendary artist’s life and work. From music to painting, through theater and cinema, this retrospective offers a comprehensive overview of Bowie’s abundant creativity.

Rare snapshots, powerful influences

Around a hundred rare photographs, some of which have never been exhibited before, are on display. These images highlight Bowie’s profound inspirations, such as Frank Sinatra, Basquiat, and Jean Cocteau. Each photo is accompanied by unique anecdotes that outline a complex and fascinating personality.

Photos : Getty Images /MR8 Gallery /Philippe Auliac /Michel Haddi /DR

Emotional tribute

David Lawrence chose to draw inspiration from the writings of Terry Burns, David Bowie’s half-brother, to craft this retrospective. Through this poignant homage, the exhibition illustrates the intimate bonds between the artist and his half-brother, whose loss in 1985 profoundly impacted Bowie for the rest of his career.

A timeless artistic journey

Beyond the photographs, the exhibition includes videos, personal items, and concert excerpts, offering a fully sensory experience. The works of renowned photographers such as Philippe Auliac and Michel Haddi further enrich this immersive experience.

Invitation to wonder

Having authored many famous exhibitions, David Lawrence presents a new work that is both singular and captivating—a must-see. Between reality and dream, “Mr. Jones’ Long Hair” stands out as a unique celebration of David Bowie’s prolific and inimitable universe.

Photos : Getty Images /MR8 Gallery /Philippe Auliac /Michel Haddi /DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Camden Partners with Trojan Energy for a greener future

The borough of Camden takes a bold step towards sustainability with the installation of over 570 discreet on-street electric vehicle (EV) chargers, paving the way for cleaner air and inclusive transport solutions.

Major investment in electric mobility

Camden Council is making a multi-million-pound investment to equip its streets with state-of-the-art EV chargers, developed by Trojan Energy. This initiative, part of the borough’s broader sustainability strategy, aims to boost EV adoption and reduce emissions by providing convenient charging solutions for residents without driveways.

Photos : Trojan Energy/London/DR

Innovative technology for urban spaces

Trojan Energy’s chargers are uniquely designed to lie flat within pavements, avoiding street clutter and integrating seamlessly into urban settings. With smart parking sensor technology and underground connections to nearby power cabinets, the chargers offer an efficient and practical solution for both individual car owners and car club users.

Scaling up after initial success

Following a well-received 2022 trial funded by Innovate UK, Camden is now scaling up its efforts. The first 70 chargers will be installed by July 2025, with a total of 570 expected by 2026. This rollout is supported by the government’s On-Street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS), ensuring accessibility for residents and encouraging sustainable travel choices.

Photos : Trojan Energy/London/DR

Voices driving the project

Ian Mackenzie, CEO of Trojan Energy, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative: “This partnership reflects our commitment to ensuring the energy transition benefits everyone. We’re excited to support Camden’s vision for sustainable transport.” Adam Harrison, Camden’s cabinet member for planning and sustainability, added: “Our strategy prioritizes sustainable and inclusive transport for all. These new EV charge points will enhance air quality, reduce emissions, and support our environmental goals.”

Towards a cleaner, inclusive Camden

With this ambitious deployment, Camden sets a powerful example of urban innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with sustainability to create a cleaner, greener future for its residents.

Photos : Trojan Energy/London/DR

NEWS, SPORT

Arsenal no longer feels the blues

In a tense London derby, Arsenal defeated Chelsea (1-0), securing their second place in the Premier League. Fulham, on the other hand, pushed Tottenham further down with a convincing 2-0 victory.

Photos: Arsenal/FC Chelsea/DR

Arsenal shines again against their neighbor

Despite missing key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus, Arsenal still managed to set the pace against Chelsea. From the very first minutes, the Gunners put the Blues under pressure. In the 20th minute, Mikel Merino found the back of the net with a precise header from a corner kick (1-0). Although Gabriel Martinelli was elusive and the team well-organized, Arsenal couldn’t widen the gap, often due to a lack of precision in the final moments. Chelsea, despite increased possession towards the end of the first half, barely troubled the Gunners except for a mishandled attempt by Marc Cucurella that goalkeeper David Raya struggled to deal with.

Photos: Arsenal/FC Chelsea/DR

A tense yet controlled second half

After halftime, fouls and cautions overshadowed the spectacle. However, the clearest chances remained with Arsenal: Sanchez had to make decisive saves against Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard to prevent a rout. Chelsea, for their part, lacked creativity and efficiency in their attacks, failing to mount a comeback. With this valuable victory, the Gunners cement their second-place position, leaving Chelsea, in fourth, 9 points behind in the fierce fight for a Champions League spot.

Photos: Arsenal/FC Chelsea/DR

ART & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, NEWS

The beauty in images: The winners of the 2025 Sony World Photography Awards revealed

Each photograph is a window into vibrant, universal stories—a world narrated in light and shadow.

A celebration of universal artistic vision

The 2025 Sony World Photography Awards, a key event in contemporary photography, has unveiled its winners and finalists for the 18th edition of its open competition. This prestigious event, which attracted 419,000 entries from over 200 countries and territories, celebrates the power of a single photograph to crystallize a unique moment while conveying a broader narrative. Among the winners, captivating works include: a jubilant crowd at a basketball game in the United States ; the intricate, bustling display of an electronics vendor in Akihabara, Japan; and a fiery red sea of lava in Iceland, reminiscent of a Miltonian setting. These images, along with many others, embody the diversity of the competition’s.

Categories : Landscape, Travel, Motion, Portraiture, as well as personal narratives intertwined with spectacular visual creations.

A showcase of award-winning images

Several photographs stood out in this edition for their narrative strength or technical brilliance. 

Notable examples include

“Centre of the Cosmos” by Xuecheng Liu (China), winner in the Architecture category.

“Tbourida La Chute” by Olivier Unia (France), victor in Motion.

“Encounter” by Yeintze Boutamba (Gabon), awarded in Portraiture.

“Ask a Shaman” by Matjaž Šimic (Slovenia), winner in Travel.

“Kem the Unstoppable” by Jonell Francisco (Philippines), recognized in the Creative category.

Finalist candidates also made an impression with their works from across the globe, such as those by Hajime Hirano (Lifestyle), Sussi Charlotte Alminde (Object), and Victor de Valles Ibáñez (Landscape).

Photos : Sony World Photography Awards 2025/DR

An event not to be missed

The anticipation continues as we await the announcement of the Photographer of the Year, to be revealed on April 16, 2025, accompanied by a $5,000 prize. The award-winning photographs will come to life at London’s Somerset House in a public exhibition running from April 17 to May 5, 2025.These photographs, testament to boundless creativity and sensitivity, once again prove that beauty can emerge from the simplest or most extraordinary moments. A true ode to the diversity of perspectives and stories that only photography can offer.

Photos : Sony World Photography Awards 2025/DR

NEWS, SPORT

Football Arsenal Held by Manchester United: A Frustrating Draw

After a stunning display in the Champions League, Arsenal was held to a 1-1 draw against Manchester United. The Gunners now face mounting pressure as Nottingham closes the gap in the standings.

Photos : Manchester United/Arsenal/DR 

First half contrasting 

Arsenal quickly took control of the match, dominating possession and creating numerous attacking opportunities. Mikel Merino and Martin Ødegaard both tested André Onana, but the Manchester United goalkeeper stood firm. However, it was the Red Devils who broke the deadlock just before halftime: Bruno Fernandes delivered a precise free-kick to put United in the lead (45+2).

Photos : Manchester United/Arsenal/DR 

Arsenal react, but remain clumsy 

In the second half, Declan Rice revived Arsenal’s hopes with a powerful equalizer (74′). Despite Martinelli’s efforts late in the game, the Gunners couldn’t secure the win. In the dying moments, Raya’s double save denied Rasmus Højlund a decisive goal, ensuring Arsenal avoided defeat. In the standings, Arsenal remains second behind Liverpool, but Nottingham is narrowing the gap. This match highlights the Gunners’ struggles to turn dominance into victories, while Manchester United climbs to 14th place, finding a moment of relief in a challenging season.

Photos : Manchester United/Arsenal/DR 

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

A night of light and diversity at Windsor castle

In a historic event that will forever be etched in the annals of Windsor Castle, the emblematic residence of British royalty hosted, for the very first time in its thousand-year history, a Ramadan fast-breaking ceremony.

Photos : Windsor Castle/ 360//DR

This past Sunday, the prestigious St. George’s Hall, usually reserved for royal banquets and state events, was transformed into a space of unity and intercultural dialogue. Over 350 guests gathered, sharing a moment rich with meaning and emotion.

A sacred tradition in a majestic setting

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the Adzan an evocative call to prayer reverberated through the castle’s historic walls. Participants broke their fast in the traditional way, with dates in hand, before coming together in solemn prayer. “The atmosphere felt surreal, almost magical,” shared one guest with the BBC, encapsulating the sense of privilege felt by many.

A project that inites hearts and cultures

This unprecedented ceremony was organized by the Ramadan Tent Project, a London-based charitable organization, in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust. Simon Maples, head of visitor operations at Windsor Castle, emphasized King Charles III’s long-standing commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and celebrating diversity. “His Majesty has always championed mutual recognition across cultures and religions,” Maples noted. The royal family’s gesture of openness deeply resonated with attendees. “We traveled a long way to be here tonight,” expressed one guest, visibly moved. Another participant, a trained historian, described the experience as a perfect fusion of her Muslim identity and passion for British history: “This is an evening I never dared to imagine.”

Photos : Windsor Castle/ 360//DR

Nationwide celebration of understanding

This exceptional event is part of a broader initiative led by the Ramadan Tent Project, which aims to build bridges between cultures across the United Kingdom. Eighteen prestigious venues, including Shakespeare’s Globe and Lord’s Cricket Ground, hosted open fast-breaking ceremonies this year. The final event will take place at Trafalgar Square, bringing together individuals from all walks of life for an unforgettable shared experience.

Beacon of hope for the future

Omar Salha, the founder of the organization, hailed the evening as a triumph for unity and solidarity: “This moment embodies unwavering support for the Muslim community.” As Ramadan’s crescent moon continues to rise, guests departing Windsor Castle carry with them indelible memories, etched not only in the grandeur of the ancient stones but also in the warmth of the shared human spirit.

Photos : Windsor Castle/ 360//DR

NEWS, SPORT

Arsenal crushes PSV in a dominant display

The Gunners, in spectacular form, delivered a stunning 7-1 victory against PSV Eindhoven, all but securing their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Photos : PSV/Arsenal/DR

A commanding first half

From the first whistle, Arsenal’s 4-3-3 setup controlled the game with precision and intensity. Although Declan Rice had an early goal disallowed for offside, the breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Jurriën Timber converted a pinpoint cross from Rice. Shortly after, the young Ethan Nwaneri doubled the lead with a clinical finish. The third goal arrived when Mikel Merino capitalized on a defensive mix-up to score in the 31st minute. Despite their struggles, PSV pulled one back before halftime with a penalty from Noa Lang after Thomas Partey conceded a foul in the box (3-1, 43rd minute).

Photos : PSV/Arsenal/DR

Relentless in the second half

Arsenal resumed the second half with the same intensity. Just two minutes in, Martin Ødegaard unleashed a powerful strike to make it 4-1. Leandro Trossard added another less than a minute later, bringing the score to 5-1. Although PSV tried to respond through Luuk de Jong and Noa Lang, Arsenal’s defense, led by Gabriel and William Saliba, held firm. Ødegaard struck again in the 73rd minute with a stunning effort, and Riccardo Calafiori rounded off the scoring with a composed finish to make it 7-1.

A statement victory

This emphatic performance showcased Arsenal’s attacking prowess, leaving no doubt about their intentions in this year’s Champions League. With a nearly insurmountable aggregate lead, the Gunners now await their next challenge in the competition, which could see them face either Real Madrid or Atlético Madrid. As for PSV, the return leg offers little more than a chance to salvage pride.

Photos : PSV/Arsenal/DR