What’s On March 2023: Canadian Culture in the UK
As we transition from the gloomy days of winter into longer days and friendlier weather, the UK comes to life with a host of exceptional exhibitions and events that are not to be missed. This March, Canadian talent and culture abound across the nation, with events to suit every taste. Stumble across some thought-provoking public art, lighten the mood with top-tier Canadian comedy or relax by trying your hand at some Canadian-inspired painting. Although days are longer and schedules may be getting busier, we hope you’ll find time to attend a show or two, for none of them will be around for long.
Zadie Xa: House Gods, Animal Guides and Five Ways 2 Forgiveness, Whitechapel Gallery, London, 20 September 2022 – 30 April, 2023. Photo: by Andy Keate.
Zadie Xa, Art on the Underground, Aldgate East Station, London
March 2023
Contemporaneous to her solo exhibition at Whitechapel Gallery in London, Canadian-Korean artist Zadie Xa will be unveiling a new work this work at Aldgate East Station, next to the gallery. Part of the Art on the Underground initiative that places contemporary art on and around Tube stations, this uniquely London spin on Canadian art expands on the themes explored in Zadie’s exhibition. The exhibition, House Gods, Animal Guides and Five Ways 2 Forgiveness, continues her study of myth and folklore by delving into the history of the TFL and their use of the Griffin, a legendary creature that is said to be half lion and half eagle.
Just for Laughs - Ryan Reynolds: Maximum Effort, O2 Arena, London
4 March 2023
Taking place tomorrow, Just for Laughs, a Canadian cult favourite comedy event is taking place in London with a lineup of belly-laugh-inducing acts, including headliner Ryan Reynolds. A man who needs no introduction, this globally-recognised comedic actor is taking the time out of his busy life to grace the stage at the O2 Arena in London to do what he does best: entertain, and make us laugh. And let’s face it, we can all do with a bit of a laugh these days.
Michael Bublé 'Higher' Tour, O2 Arena, London
26 March and 28 March 2023
Just when you thought the O2 couldn’t fit more Canadian talent in its Greenwich dome, another Canadian megastar takes the stage towards the end of the month. Michael Bublé will be delivering his signature blend of pop and jazz music that shot him to international stardom. Known for his smooth, velvety voice and charismatic stage presence, Bublé's performances are a true spectacle, and quite possibly Canadian talent at its best.
'Coiffed', 2020. Photo: Rachel Topham Photography. Courtesy Catriona Jeffries, Vancouver.
Liz Magor: The Rise and The Fall, Focal Point Gallery, Southend-on-Sea
8 March - 10 June 2023
Found objects meet sculptural techniques and intense care in Canadian artist Liz Magor's solo exhibition at Focal Point Gallery. Recipient of the prestigious Governor General’s award in 2001, Liz’s sculptural practice guides viewers to pay heed to the materiality of everyday objects, resulting in uncanny encounters that are at once familiar, humorous, and at times unsettling. For this show, in collaboration with the Contemporary Art Gallery, Vancouver, a presentation of her recent works from the past five years will be on display.
Sophie Lourdes Knight, the Rodeo, 2022, Oil on Canvas. 170 x 130 cm.
In the making, Lilya Art Gallery, London
Until 4 April 2023
This exhibition, taking place at Lilya Art Gallery in London, presents the unique perspectives on everyday experiences by five artists whose use of painting varies greatly in style yet merges in their application of the medium as a means to explore and challenge our perception of the world. Highlighting the value of the creative journey, it reveals the path to representation as one filled with obstacles and unexpected discoveries. Included in the show is artist Sophie Lourdes Knight, who, in 2019 and 2020, received the Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Award, a distinguished award from Montreal that celebrates representational art.
Photo by Mark Allan
Into the Infinite Messiaen and Mahler, Barbican Centre, London
12 March 2023
Indulge in two classical compositions in a single concert, masterfully conducted by Canadian musician Barbara Hannigan. L'Ascension by Olivier Messiaen is a set of meditative orchestral pieces that evoke divinity with their mesmerising rhythms and melodies, depicting the ascension of Christ into heaven after the resurrection. In contrast, Mahler's 4th Symphony takes the listener on a vivid and wild ride through the inner world of a child's mind, exploring themes of childhood, innocence, and spirituality, ending with a poem encapsulating a child’s vision of heaven.
Tom Thomson, Tamaracks, 1914. Oil on wood.
Introduction to oil painting - Tom Thomson style, Nook, Bristol
12 March 2023
Often regarded as an unofficial member of the Group of Seven and indeed one of their inspirations, the impact of Tom Thomson’s short but important artistic career extends to the UK today. For a mindful and fun afternoon, join artist Catherine Knight in Bristol, where you'll have the opportunity to explore his unique style, characterized by his use of vivid colours and bold brushstrokes. It’s the perfect introduction to the world of oil painting and a chance to be inspired by one of Canada's most celebrated artists.