Exhibit A founder Sara shares a selection of her Paris/London photo album and some recent faves.
A trip away! Can you describe how you feel about being in Europe again?
In a word, magical. There is something inimitable about old cities that are constantly evolving- I love that sweet spot where patina and newness collide.
Seeing old art at the usual haunts is still a thrill (Brancusi in Paris, Henry Moore in London, Giacometti in St Paul de Vence and Picasso in Antibes) and discovering new artists like Nicole Eisenman, Ben McLaughlin and Audrey Noel and small dealer galleries like Wilo & Grove in Paris and WSJ in London too.
Ceramics too?
Always ceramics. I saw 2 entire walls of Picasso hand-painted plates and went to a village dedicated wholly to pottery. (So many ceramics… Editor)
But my favourites are always minimalist forms in either rustic earthy tones or barely any colour at all. In the Marais in Paris I stumbled upon a little creamy stone gallery with incredible large urns. I’d never be able to find that street again though.
What do you particularly love about Paris & London?
I find the detail of a floor or staircase so captivating that I’m stopping constantly to take photographs and holding things up.
In a bar, I’m often more focused on the tiles or ceiling (and the bathrooms!) than the cocktail itself- of course that’s crucial too. A disappointing cocktail is, well, disappointing.
On cocktails, anything to report?
Well I definitely stuck to light Campari and gin spritzers and sometimes a Suze and Tonic but only a couple. These are reliable summer classics. I did try the most intriguing fennel martini in London- gorgeous.
Actually, I’m kind of obsessed with herbs right now. It’s an internal debate which is my top: thyme, rosemary, mint, sage, dill? I love them all and their power to evoke emotions and seasons even. Basil with tomato is just instantly summer on a plate while sage and butter is winter. But maybe we need to turn these cliches on their head?
I’m interested more than ever in adding herbs to my gin spritzers and cocktails for interest, colour and scent.
What images have stuck in your head out of that enormous sensory overload?
These ones below.
And finally, now you’re home any thoughts on the evolution of Exhibit A?
I’m very interested in my ‘one perfect drink’ strategy where I can just have a perfectly made cocktail or champagne and that’s all. I love that way of meeting for one drink as people do in Paris without the need for anything more. It’s a healthier way to experience the fun and excitement of connecting with others. I don’t think we’ve yet mastered it here with our ‘all or nothing’ mentality.
I’ll always love discovering a new bar whether it’s a hole in the wall with a secret door or glam to the max (the Painters Room at Claridges is one to book in).
And yes, travel rejuvenates the desire to create new and beautiful Exhibit A pieces to enhance our little collection. There’s been underground creativity bubbling away and a renewed love for craft and making stuff.
For whatever reason savoury drinks and sweet music are in the back of my mind…
Edited by Harriet Wells