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The Tourist, oil on canvas by Jack Vettriano O.B.E

NOTES FROM A
TRAVELLER

Welcome to the  journal and notes of Grace Lambert-Phillips.

 

Grace started writing when she was around 8 years old, and wrote her first short story, typed and illustrated, from her bedroom floor. She became a traveller around the same time, even though for a while it was only in her stories until she was big enough to explore the world. Now she is living in Italy writing about her travels, discoveries and adventures. Sometimes she still writes from a floor, but more often she writes from her studio in Tuscany or on the move at some table somewhere. But the important thing, she realised a long time ago, was always to write and do it wherever she was.

Disclosures now exhibiting in Florence

I recently opened my exhibition Disclosures at the Golden View in Florence, and it was a beautiful evening shared with friends, supporters, artists, and journalists. A line of vintage cars graced the entrance, and the artwork looks stunning against the walls of this contemporary and elegant venue, which overlooks the Ponte Vecchio and Vasari's Corridor. This space is a true meeting point for art and culture, where pieces are not merely background decor but catalysts for meaningful conversations over exquisite dinners and fine wines and is the embodiment of the "living art" concept we often discuss. Together with Tommaso Grasso, the owner of the Golden View, and his dedicated team, we are bringing this vision to life, creating a vibrant space that celebrates the synergy between life and art. In Italy, dining is central to the culture, and hosting a creative environment within a dining space feels both fitting and inspiring. Here, life and art intertwine, allowing us to explore and express ourselves in profound ways within the ordinary daily things.


The opening night was a wonderful event, celebrating our new collaboration with a specially designed menu created by executive chef Andrea Candito and his exceptional team. The tables were filled with artists, journalists, and friends, and together we celebrated this cultural evening.

The story behind the subjects of Disclosures centers on the theme of travel and what it truly means to be a traveller rather than a tourist. Seeing these pieces within this space inspires meaningful conversations around these topics, especially in a place where many travellers find themselves. This aspect is vital for me. The artworks, in collaboration with their surroundings, take on new life and meaning, presenting these well-known sights from a fresh perspective. My hope is that people will sit in this space and appreciate the artworks not just as mere backgrounds but as significant, integral elements that enrich and inspire conversations.


I had the privilege of photographing these magnificent monuments during the second lockdown in Florence, and the message became clear: without the tourists crowding at their feet, these pieces spoke for themselves and came to life once more. This marked the beginning of my journey in Tuscany, and after four years, it felt like a true honour to showcase them at the Golden View, right in the neighborhood where my adventure began.

Included in the exhibition is a triptych from my Grand Tour Collection, depicting a Tuscan villa that once welcomed many travellers, including artists, playwrights, noblemen, and popes. These pieces explore travel from a different perspective, showcasing sacred and well-preserved locations that invite us to linger within their original context. Alongside the renowned sculptures, I hope this story resonates, deepening our connection and respect for the rich Italian culture they represent.


I take great pride in this work and in the collaboration with The Golden View, where art and culture harmoniously intertwine—from the tables to the walls.


Disclosures will be on display until the extended date of the 12th January 2025. For a private viewing or to book a dinner within the exhibition space, please contact The Golden View at +39 055 214502. I will also be available during selected opening hours for private viewings and dinners. If you're interested in arranging a personal visit to the exhibition, feel free to reach out to me at grace@lambertphillipsfoundation.com.




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