From January, 31 2023, guests at 45 Park Lane can be transported back to the Hampstead Modernist’s era with Hepworth – Rhythm and
Form, following on from the success of Paris, Picasso’s Montmartre, Monet – Revolutionary Brushstrokes, and Rome : Caravaggio – Rebel and Rome.
Rhythm and Form will open the door to Barbara Hepworth’s London life at the centre of a vibrant and new community of visionary artists, writers and architects – including Bauhaus director Walter Gropius, overseer of the original design of 45 Park Lane, Henry Moore, Piet Mondrian and Lee Miller – all flocking to leafy Hampstead under the shadow of World War II, and how their hub Mall Studios – a crucible of creativity in the late 1920s and early 1930s – set the scene for a fertile exchange of ideas, cultures and even lovers.
Accompanied by a passionate and knowledgeable guide, guests will delve into Hepworth’s world to discover how motherhood provided Hepworth with a unique drive to create; how one of Hepworth’s most tragic moments inspired one her most important sculptures; and how London’s Old Vic and Royal Opera House led to Hepworth’s renewed interest in metalwork.
Retrace some of the most significant moments of Hepworth’s artistic journey in London; from her moving and monumental public sculptures, to her former home at Mall Studios.
With lively dialogue in the company of an experienced guide, one-on-one or as part of a small, private group, guests will be able to absorb thrilling anecdotes about the artist’s life and career, discover how these formative years in London shaped the mind, hands and sculpture of one of Britain’s most influential artists, and how its cultural riches allowed Hepworth to experiment, be challenged and ultimately forge her reputation as one of the leading Modernist sculptors of the 20th century.
Each itinerary will be adapted, so that the trail is able to cater for both intrepid explorers who wish to refine their knowledge, as well as novices to the world of the Modernists who are keen to widen their knowledge.
Lee Kelly, General Manager, said: “Building on the excitement of our Legendary Artists trails at Le Meurice, Paris, and Hotel Eden, Rome we’re delighted to announce Hepworth – Rhythm and Form as the first of our trails in London at 45 Park Lane. We were inspired by the hotel’s relationship with Bauhaus director, Walter Gropius – who was part of Hepworth’s vibrant Modernist community in Hampstead. It’s no wonder that 45 Park Lane, with its landmark building, should celebrate this moment of history in which London played host to the shining lights of European Modernism. This wonderfully unique experience gives our guests the chance to get to know London through the lens of Barbara Hepworth’s unparalleled life.”
In the coming months, Dorchester Collection’s series of “Follow in the footsteps of Legendary Artists” will be expanded to include Auguste Rodin at Le Meurice and Lucio Fontana at Hotel Principe di Savoia.
