WHAT? All the Flowers are for Me 

WHERE? Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art, Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3LL

WHEN? Now until 17th September 

WHY GO? For a sense of inner peace. Pakistani-American artist Anila Quayyum Agha’s first UK exhibition provides a meditative moment.  

Fine filigree patterns dance across a stark laser-cut steel cube to produce an immersive awe-inspiring sculpture.  

Suspended from the ceiling, this show-stopper draws inspiration from Islamic art and architecture and the overall effect is hypnotically soothing.  Shown alongside the premiere of Stolen Moment Bouquet 1 and 11, her new floral wall mounted mirrored sculptures, inspired by botanical artist Albrecht Durer, represent the changing shift in nature.  

All pretty thought provoking stuff, but a quiet reflective walk through Kew gardens afterwards to see some real flowers should clear the head!  

IN THE KNOW  Running alongside award-winning Agha’s stunning sculptures are a series of 25 botanical paintings of plants referenced in the Qur’an by botanical artist Sue Wickison.  Both provide a glimpse into the beauty and culture of Islamic art. 

As always the Kew ticket price includes the gallery entrance fee.