WHAT? Cecil Beaton’s Garden Party

WHERE? The Garden Museum, Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7LB

WHEN? Now until 21st September

WHY GO? For an artistic bouquet. Entering the world of Cecil Beaton is akin to experiencing a bygone era of cultural conversation while pottering in the conservatory. This nostalgic little exhibition focuses on the legendary all-round creative artist and his love of gardening, and is aptly displayed in London’s Garden Museum and curated by an esteemed fan, Luke Edward Hall, who is himself an artistic gardening talent.
Beaton’s creative genius knew no boundaries and switched between painting and photography to designing for the theatre and ballet, and frequently referenced his own personal Wiltshire gardens where he escaped for inspiration and undoubtedly hosted a great many esoteric parties.
This charming curation includes a bit of everything, from handwritten correspondence and photographs of the great and good, including his iconic images of Queen Elizabeth, her mother and Princess Margaret, all surrounded by florals designed as set pieces by him.
It’s a bouquet of garden memorabilia, from his straw hat to favourite garden tools, original drawings, even a mock-up stage set.
There are images from his legendary work on My Fair Lady and the opera Turandot at The Met in New York. Undoubtedly, if Beaton were alive today, his contribution to Chelsea would inspire horticultural history.

IN THE KNOW Six leading florists are taking over the Garden Museum with immersive floral installations from 4–8 June for British Flowers Week, a celebration of British-grown flowers.
Names include Rollo Skinner, a floral set designer who has worked with names like Gucci and Tim Walker, and Wild at Heart’s talented Nikki Tibble. Check details online for an inspirational panel talk on 5 June.