Are you an artist or a student, or a fan of architecture and sculptures? One of the best and ideal places in London to sketch is here at the
Victoria and Albert Museum, otherwise known as The V&A.
For those of you who like to take your drawing passion and be somewhere indoors, away from the heat of summer, or rain and random cold spells of London, the V&A holds any artists dream, 'light' and a 'peaceful environment' at any time of the year.
The V&A is visited by travellers and artists from all over the UK. The architecture is magnificent and you will soon discover why the V&A is a source of resource for everybody who is examining history and art.
I worked here in the spring and summer of 2010, and was fortunate to see artists at work. One Saturday morning on one of my days off, I decided to test my drawing skills. I got to the museum just as the doors opened and walked upstairs to the next level, overlooking the Medieval and Renaissance galleries.
The third level has many spaces where you can sit and have a better view of what you want to draw. The light gives you the sense of wanting to draw the whole day. The space is also incredible. The architecture is brilliant, the shapes and the colours you see are simply breathtaking.
I spent a total of three hours drawing and shading. I enjoyed the peaceful environment and the chance to work patiently. It was the best time I remember having, to draw.
The Medieval and Renaissance galleries and the John Madejski garden are just two of the many popular hidden gems to bring your sketch pads to. You are encouraged to bring your camera with you and make the most of your visit.
As you make your way to the gardens, you will pass by the Museum shop and sculptures collection, a corridor of great works of art such as 'Neptune and Triton' and various Northern European masterpieces.
The Information Desk will direct you to a stool (no charge) which you can take with you for the duration of your visit. The stool is very light to carry and it is easy to open and close.
It is best to bring along with you your own pencils and sketchpad.
There are restrictions in the V&A which include prohibiting the use of paints, glues and sprays which are not allowed in the galleries, this is due to health and safety measures.
You must also visit 'The National Art Library', ''The Prints and Drawings Study Room' and 'the RIBA Architecture Study Rooms'.
The V&A opens its doors daily at 10.00am.
