Now you see us …

Until Friday when the exhibition closes. Superbly curated view of those excluded by sex from achieving their potential as artists. Women missing from history now partially rediscovered, although much of their work is lost or cannot be identified. From the seventeenth though to the 21st century they were mocked (women can’t paint) restricted (they should stick to flowers) and excluded (it is not seemly for women to paint from life). As for the institutions … they were banging on those doors for hundreds of years (and probably still are). 

I went to see this with my old friend PB. We agreed it was an excellent event. It was also huge; I was exhausted after eight or nine rooms packed with treasures.

I snapped a few favourites which you can find here. Really worth a look. 

PB and I were walking into the Tate when Richard Ayoade walked past, very rudely declining to make eye contact with us. He was walking head down, striding briskly as well known people do when they don’t want to be asked for selfies, autographs or questions about their personal lives. Honestly.

The good company and the quality of the paintings sustained me as I was feeling under the weather. As well as having coffee in the members room We also popped to the cafe at the Chelsea college of art next door for a spot of lunch. Funky place this. Just warm enough for sitting out in their huge courtyard.

Getting home from Tate Britain was a slog. Very glad to get back to a warm house and a comfy settee.