Monday 25 January 2010

One World, One Heart – Life and Love in The Big Smoke

 

one world

 

Lifting my petticoats high, I raced down the track and leapt up onto the flying carpet today to join in with hundreds of other bloggers from all over the world who are participating in the One World, One Heart Giveaway. This is an annual event hosted by Lisa at A Whimsical Bohemian  who started the party back in 2007 with just a handful of bloggy friends. It has grown immeasurably since then, and Lisa’s initial premise still holds true. She says, "The blogging world is vast with more blogs created all the time....and through blogging we can learn new things, read about other countries, learn of new ways to promote those vital issues, support causes as well as learn about new artists, writers, photographers, et al. By having a list of those with a giveaway it is like a home tour with a map......going from place to place to see how others "live" and perhaps along the way make fabulous new connections and maybe win a door prize in the process."

 

twilight2 London Twilight – August 2009

 

The door prize going to the winner of the Aerial Armadillo draw is this 8” x 6”acrylic/oil pastel painting of my interpretation of a twilight London.  The painting is on 480gsm Fabriano 100% cotton rag and will be double matted, so you just need to pop it into a frame of your choice and voila – it’s ready to hang!

In order to participate, you should leave a comment after THIS post. The comments will close at 9 o'clock UK time on February 15th when I’ll do a random draw and then post the winner’s name the following day. I’ll be celebrating my birthday in Cape Town during February, so I will mail the painting (and a little memento from South Africa) to the winner of my draw from there…..so it may take just a little longer than normal to arrive with you wherever you are in the world!

 

 

 “By seeing London, I have seen as much of life as the world can show.”

Samuel Johnson

london5

I thought it would be fun to have you all join me on the magic carpet today so that we can explore England together.  More specifically, I felt you may like to know a little more about this country’s vibrant capital from the point of view of someone who lives there, so grab my hand, leap onto the flying carpet with me and we’ll join my daughter Alexandra in London.  Alex knows London far better than I do so I’ll just ask the questions and she can do the talking!

Alex

How would you describe London?

Many people see London as the most creative and culturally important city in the world. It’s hard to disagree. The capital is home to some of the greatest museums, galleries, theatres and heritage sites in the world. London also punches above its weight in the creative industries and has produced a veritable wealth of artists, writers, musicians, film and theatre directors, architects and designers.

london1

What does London mean to you?

London means the cosmopolitan, multilingual, polychromatic vibe emitted by carnivals, festivals and street markets which is significantly intensified by the silence to be found in some of the nation’s great monuments like the naves of medieval cathedrals, the galleries of the British Museum, the vastness of the Tate. It’s that contrast and juxtaposition that constitutes the excitement of London.

london11

Is it important to have contacts before moving to a big city, or can you ‘go it alone’?

I think it’s vital to have contacts. London, like any major metropolis, can be very lonely if you don’t know anyone. I was lucky in that many of my closest school friends were already based in London when I started University here. They were fantastically supportive when I moved to the city which made everything so much easier for me

How long have you lived in London?

If you include the 3 years I was at SOAS*, I’ve been in London for nearly 8 years now. Yikes – that’s nearly a decade!  (*School of Oriental & African Studies, University of London.)

london12

Working life now?

I work for an independent classical music television company and absolutely love it.

Dream job?

I love what I do at the moment, but I’d like to get back to development at some stage and work for a grass roots organisation helping to empower women in Africa.

Is there anywhere you’d rather be?

Yes on a yacht in the South pacific, but I’ll settle for London at the moment!

Embarrassing story regarding city life that you can bear to admit to?

(Laughs) I’ve endured a lot of publically embarrassing moments in London, but I’d have to say the most toe curling experience involved a bus, a businessman and the Daily Telegraph.

I was on the bus when the driver (all notoriously bad at breaking suddenly – a requirement of the job apparently) simultaneously rounded a corner and slammed on the breaks. Trying to get into brace position in my perilously high heels I trod on a foot, tried to readjust, failed and ended up doing a ballerina-esque twirl into the lap of an elderly businessman who was deeply engrossed in his newspaper. We nodded politely at one another while I remained in his lap until the bus driver swung violently around another corner in the opposite direction at which point I was launched off the nice gentleman’s lap and back into the aisle where I slammed into the broad back of a very friendly Bob Marley look-a-like. Excruciatingly embarrassing, but one way I suppose, of getting to know the denizens of London!

london2

Do you refute Prince Charles’ scathing remark that the London skyline is becoming "not just one carbuncle on the face of a much-loved friend, but a positive rash of them that disfigure precious views and will disinherit future generations of Londoners."?

I think London strikes quite a good balance between conservation and development.

There are some buildings I feel aren’t entirely fitting, but most of the more contemporary architecture complements the city skyline and more importantly it hasn’t been at the expense of those historical buildings and monuments for which London is renown.

london4

London is home to many of the most impressive museums and art collections in the world, do you have a favourite?

For me it would have to be The Natural History Museum for it’s sheer size and the quality and quantity of their exhibits. The V & A is another favourite of mine and I love both the National Portrait Gallery and The Royal Academy for their exceptional photography and art exhibitions.

london8

Give us a snippet about the last exhibition you went to?

I went to The Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Natural History Museum. It was quite seriously mind-blowing. I was awestruck – both at the beauty the world has to offer and at the ability of those photographers to capture it on film.

There are new movie releases almost every week in or around Leicester Square – what have you seen recently that knocked your socks off?

In Search of a Midnight Kiss, an independent film set against the streets of New York on New Years Eve and The Visitor, which touches on immigration in Britain and is one of the most moving and beautifully made films I’ve seen in years.

The West End dazzles with its theatre billboards and thrums with the buzz of the latest productions. What is the most memorable/entertaining/shocking/beautifully crafted play you’ve seen lately?

Richard Greenberg’s Three Days of Rain at the Apollo was fantastic, as was Equus at the National Theatre. The latter lived up to the hype, which is rare in my opinion!  War Horse at the New London Theatre is a must as well – take a box of tissues.

london14

London is also famous for its huge choice of venues for the performing arts, which offer the very best of classical music, rock concerts, opera, modern dance and ballet. Any you’d recommend?

I would recommend Ain’t Nothing But The Blues on Kingly Str. It’s an intimate venue which offers the best live blues music in town and The Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington for classical music and opera. Of course there is no beating Sadler’s Wells for the best ballet the world has to offer!

What do you dislike about the city?

Tourists. But I do try and remember that I was one once so I try not to get irritated when they suddenly stop in their tracks to admire something and we collide!

london13

What do you love about London?

I love the variety. London has so much to offer and despite having lived here for years, I’m still discovering parts of the city I didn’t know existed. I revel in the sense of diversity in this city, too. It’s wonderful when I’m on the tube or walking down the street and I see people of every different nationality and colour, speaking in different languages but all rubbing along together fine.

London, like New York, has its ‘villages’. Which part of London is your particular favourite?

I’m a North London Girl and rarely venture South. My favourite parts of North London include Camden, Marylebone, Notting Hill, Brick Lane and the Edgware Road.

london7

The Big Smoke has plenty of green, open spaces and parks. Where would you go for a warm summer’s evening picnic with friends?

Parsons Green is great for a picnic with the girls. Greenwich Park is nice because it’s never too crowded and the views are wonderful.  For people watching and Speakers Corner on Sunday it has to be Hyde Park.

london9

The city still cuts a dash when it comes to global style. As a dedicated fashionista, where do you shop?

As a fashionista on a budget I tend towards Gap, H&M, East, Oasis and Zara.

All the top national and international designers have stores in London so if your daddy was on the Rich List, which couture house would you frequent?

Anya Hindmarch or Vera Wang.

What are the three must-have things you always need to hand?

An umbrella, an A-Z and plastic!

London has a vast miscellany of open-air markets which sell everything from organic produce, specialist food, antiques, art, clothes and general bric-à-brac. Which is your favourite?

Camden for clothes and Borough Market for food and sophisticated pub crawls.

london.bor

The city is in the grip of a profound restaurant mania, despite the global recession. There are 43 starred Michelin restaurants in London, compared with 39 in New York, and ‘provenance’ (read locally raised”) is the buzzword on every foodie’s lips. Where do you eat out when you want a treat?

I try to take advantage of the fantastic restaurants London has to offer and use Top Table to book some of the more well known establishments because of the meal deals you can get via that site. Normally though, my favourite for brunch is the Wolseley and for sushi the wonderful Haki no Sana. Otherwise, there’s a really funky restaurant I like called Archipelago in Fitzrovia. The menu is a bit strange, you can have a wildebeest stew followed by a chocolate scorpion but the décor is fabulous – it’s like a little grotto full of plants and strange ornaments.

Where do you eat when you’re feeling skint?

At home … or round at a friend’s with a bottle in hand!

Where do you go to be defuzzed, manicured and coiffured?

Prince’s Palace on the Edgware Road – it’s a little ‘hole in the wall’ and the lovely lady who looks after me doesn’t speak English, but is ruthlessly efficient at defuzzing and a genius with coiffure! And it doesn’t cost the earth- and moon and stars - like many West End salons.

The London clubbing scene is reputed to be unrivalled. Tell us about your favourite haunts?

(Grins impishly) No idea, I’m far too old to go clubbing…  If I had to go, it would probably be The Valmont Club in Chelsea or Mo*vida in Soho

london.boink

London men – how do you rate ‘em?

It depends on where you are in London. The ‘Hooray Henrys’ are agonizingly boring, but I occasionally meet someone I like somewhere unexpected.

Sex in the city – how is it for you?

Well since my man and I parted nearly a year ago, it’s a bit like the Gobi Desert with only the very occasional oasis.

Being practical for a moment, London should be the greatest hunting-ground anywhere in Europe. Concentrated in a few square miles are literally millions of single men of all ages, shapes, sizes, nationalities and predilections. Is it as easy as it sounds?

Because the city is so big, and you tend to move in the same social circle it’s not always easy to meet new people. Therefore dating requires a certain amount of effort.

london3

Any particular women who, in your opinion, have made an impact on the London scene in the last decade?

WAGs* - unfortunately, and Bob Geldof’s children, royal consorts and Gwyneth Paltrow. And lots of women who are regularly featured in gossip mags who don’t appear to do anything in particular. (*Wives and Girlfriends - of footballers)

If you could be some notable London luminary – now or in the past - for a day, who would it be?

Lady Ottoline Morrell. Her circle of friends – and lovers – was formidable!

It's impossible to think of life in London without taking into account what's underneath the city. What do you love, and hate, about the tube?

I love that you can get everywhere in London with a certain amount of ease. I don’t like the stifling heat of the Underground in summer or the ‘accidental’ bum graze when the tube is crowded.

Are London taxi drivers really as rude as their reputation suggests?

London taxi drivers are fantastic! They love to talk on a variety of subjects and are often very funny and almost always informative!

london10

Of all the current movers and shakers on the London scene, who would you most like to have dinner with?

London’s major, Boris Johnson. He may look - and sound - like a caricature, but I think he’d be a great addition to a dinner party!

Your life as a newspaper headline?

African Becomes London Native.

Describe your London in one sentence?

London vibrates!

framed.london

Hey!  Before you go, don’t forget the door prize!

207 comments:

1 – 200 of 207   Newer›   Newest»
My Castle in Spain said...

Your lovely daughter makes me want to hop to London much more often...it's been 4 years i went there last time..too long..much too long ! :-)

Silke Powers said...

Oh, Tessa, London is my very favorite big city!! I just love it!!! And I'd so love to win your painting - it is exquisite!!! But even if I don't, this was a wonderful trip down memory lane for me... Love, Silke

Pixiewinkle said...

Tessa! Thank you for the visit-you rock! And I loved reading about London, I think I'm due for a visit (it's been about 10 years).

It was a treat visiting. Patricia

Holly said...

You made me cry. London and its surrounds was my fist big tour. The first time I'd crossed the Atlantic, the whole thing.

And, I was newly divorced and feeling all at odds with my life and I fell in love with the City, the Country, the new sense of confidence because I risked going someplace alone.

Oh, and yes, all of it. So you made me cry today. Happy tears.

Love To You.

Elizabeth Musgrave said...

I have lived and worked in London on and off for years and love it. I wouldn't swap my welsh hills for any city now but London is far and away my favourite city and I still love to visit. You and I have daughters of about the same age living there now! Everyone should have the chance to live there at some point in their life.

WrightStuff said...

That's a great post for an ex-Londoner to read. I have to go back regularly for 'my fix'. It still really feels like my city and I walk around like a native - head down, no distraction... I know what you mean about the tourists... we're all tourists at some point but all that stopping without warning...
What's great about London is the free museums and art galleries - you can just pop in and gaze at your favourite Canaletto and then pop out again.. Sigh... I miss it.

Would love to win your incredible painting - gorgeous colours.

DILLIGAF said...

London ranges from extraordinary to bloody awful.

I've never been a lover of cities in general but London has it all.

Great night life (if ridiculously expensive), terrific museums and historical places of interest, supurb pubs and a halfway decent transport service.

Sadly, it also has slums, poverty, ugliness and many places nobody in their right mind would want to be.

As a northerner, I don't hate it at all but I could never love it.

It just sort of...is.

MLBetterly said...

Well, now I have yet another "See before I die" local. Great post and Great giveaway! Please add my name to the hat! Don't forget to head over to my blog (#98 on the magic carpet) for a chance to win, too!

Dawn said...

What a wonderful post, the photos are so enticing
Love your picture so beautiful

hop up to Bonny Scotland!

Dawn

bockel24 said...

Wonderful painting, wonderful blog - please count me in!

steven said...

hi tessa - thanks for this lovely travelogue through the very fun, real eyes of your daughter. extremely cool and even though i know that manchester is the heart of the universe and "really outside of dorset there's nothing worth much south of crewe" (my dad's words years ago) i'm tempted to go back and give london another try!!!! have a lovely evening. steven

ShellyRaeWood said...

Wow...what a wonderful and thoughtful twist to your post! Thank you for sharing, through your daughter's eyes, a snippet of London. It was lovely....I am glad my carpet made a stop over in London. Your painting....WOW....it is gorgeous!! :::Smiles:::

sweetypie said...

thats the longest post i ever saw i deserve a prize for reading it

Rosaria Williams said...

I just had a vacation in London, and want more. Alex is a fascinating guide. Lucky you with a birthday celebration waiting in the wings!

Happy Birthday, Tessa. May you get what your heart desires.

Char said...

Lovely painting and great photos too. Put me in.

Bonnie Zieman, M.Ed. said...

Tessa - what an amazing post! I want to book my flight to London right now. Your daughter is lovely, as is your painting. Please count me in your giveaway.

K said...

Great giveaway! Please enter my name! Pop over to my blog (#92 on the magic carpet) for a chance to win, too! :)

Tristan Robin said...

That tour was awesome! I've been to London - but I loved those answers, and they made me laugh.

Your painting is so evocative...I'm quite enamored with it - and I'm sure it would be quite happy to live in a New Haven artist's studio!

Please enter me - and come visit me at my blog and enter my giveaway.

Gail H. Ragsdale said...

A beautiful post well worth reading and an incredible giveaway! Please enter me and stop by my blog also!

Gail (carpiss on ebay)

Gail said...

I have NEVER been to London. Would love to go too. I've been all over Europe but never made it to London :( The painting is spectacular too :)

Donna said...

Thanks for offering this great gift and Thanks so much for a chance to win! chiggerlane@aol.com

Anonymous said...

Beautiful! Please include me :)

Gave That said...

Hi there Tessa and Alex, thank you so much for putting together such an amazing post about visiting London along with your art Tessa (which caused my eyes to nearly blow out of my head)... this is so unique! No one has done this so far I think. This was really fab and unexpected. One World One Heart is turning out to be so cool! Wishing you much peace, M

kj said...

tessa, what great tourguides you and alex are! this was thoroughly enjoyable, every photo, every question, every answer.

i have not been in london since my early 20's, and then my then husband and i had a grand time. we saw the musical 'hair' and i will never forget how much fun it was.

following along on your tour, here is where you will find me:

'43 starred Michelin restaurants in London'

aaah. may i take you to dinner, tessa? one day perhaps. :)

your painting is incredibly amazingly vibrant. please count me in.

i loved this Mother and daughter collaboration. well done ladies.

azviatx said...

So jealous. London is on my bucket list to visit. Big red telephone booths are so cool. Don't ya just wanta crunch your cell phone and go hangout in one to talk to your friends? Your painting is so lovely, I'd love to hang it up and make my London wishes on it. Tina

Linda Sue said...

That was the most amazing interview!Brilliant Daughter! LOVED IT -every bit- it did make me feel homesick for London though I only lived there for a couple of years and a few visits back, I felt very much at home there and miss it. I would love to have the painting of course but mostly I love this interview! Thanks Tessa! Hope you are well. LOVE!

Von said...

Lucky enough to have lived in London for 7 years back in the 60's and 70's when it was the centre of the known Universe...magic!It may be faster,fuller,more frenetic these days, but in essence it doesn't change.The V&A was my home from home.
Lodon is still on my list of favourite cities.
Lovely painting!

Krissy said...

It's such a wonderful city!

Mónica said...

Thanks Tessa!! great post, i like very much these views.
Have a nice tuesday. Kind regards
Hugs

Webster said...

Wow. That was the best interview/photo tour of London ever! As it is highly unlikely that I will have the opportunity to travel there in my lifetime, I really appreciate it. Thank you.

I also love your picture of the city in blue. Maybe I'll get lucky.

Anonymous said...

What a great interview. Say, that London place sounds great...I ought to check it out...he, he. It's true. It's an amazing city with more to see and discover than one could ever accomplish. Fab post and I love the door prize.

geni said...

I enjoyed your London tour, it brings back memories from when I was there 10 years ago.
Your London Twilight is amazing!
I love the colours the most.
Thank you for the chance to become a happy new owner.
And thank you for taking the time to visit my OWOH blog yesterday!

Carol said...

OMG I adore that painting!! It's so beautiful and vibrant and it's the view I see from the train window when I leave Uni/work....

I love that Alex loves London! She's spot on about Ain't Nothing But The Blues for live Blues but for a Blues/Jazz Mix you can't beat Ronnie Scott's! I lived there for five years, and now study and work there part time and I think the city is amazing!!

C x

Oooohhh I do hope I win (but then so does everyone else that's left a comment!)

Jingle said...

Wow! This painting is amazing!!! And now how I WISH I could up and move to London. It's always been a little dream of mine! These photos are fantastic! Thanks for the journey and a great giveaway!

Mrs Minimalist said...

I love your painting and the interview of your daughter on London is quite interesting! please count me in and drop at #5to enter my giveaway as well.

Ces Adorio said...

Oh Tessa, this is wonderful but I read something I did not know and it makes me sad. I am thinking of you.

pink dogwood said...

We keep planning a visit to London for this summer - I love Alex's description. But most of all I love the painting. I want to win it - win it :)

Please count me in :)

SharDon Exclusives said...

Thank you so much for the tour of London! It is so beautiful. I was there once and have such fond memories of its beauty.
Please enter my name in your drawing and stop by to enter mine too.
http://shardonexclusives.blogspot.com
Sharon

Unknown said...

Thanks so much for this giveaway and for sharing your wonderful experience
tanyainjville@yahoo.com

Brianna said...

The first one, London, is very beautiful! Count me in!

briannarocko@yahoo.com

Jodaeodesign said...

your pastel is wonderful. Please include me in the drawing for it.

Michaele Sommerville said...

I haven't been to London since I was a YOUNG teenager! Your painting is wonderful~

I do hope you'll be able to visit my blog and enter my giveaway for paper banners/bunting/garlands: http://kidney-garden.blogspot.com/

Michaele michaelek1(at)yahoo(dot)com

carylsrealm said...

Wonderful painting and wonderful life of London! :)

DianeSS said...

I went to London on my honeymoon years ago. I think it is time for another visit. Thanks for the post, and for showing off your beautiful piece.

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

You should be an ambassador for London. Your painting sure makes it look colorful and your photos are superb. It's always wonderful to see other places on this tiny rock.

I'm # 79 on the magic carpet ride.

Unknown said...

Great, great artwork. Love the colors! Please count me in. Thank you. Please feel free to drop by my blog # 153 on the magic carpet.

Šolanje na domu-Waldorf said...

The peinting is amazing! Thanks for the chance to win this fab giveaway. Have fun in Africa. :)
x Natasha x
natasa.zugecic(at)gmail.com

Mendy said...

WOW we were thinking of moving to LONDON!! (greenwich to be exactly) I absolutely LOVE this interview with your daughter! thank you for all the information and that painting will look amazing above our couch and look at our maybe near future. thank you for this amazing giveaway, count me in! xo Mendy

pinkglitterfae said...

What a great interview! thanks for some insights into London, I've always wanted to go. It seems to hold some bit of magic to it for me. Oh, and poor you, I laughed at your most embarrassing moment :-)
Your painting is luscious! If I won, it would hold a very special place in my home

xoxo betty
www.pinkglitterfae.blogspot.com #650

Debby said...

What a fun and exciting post. Would so love to visit London! Your painting is awesome and I would love to be entered in your giveaway.
debby

hackaday said...

Hello it's my first time in your blog ever. It 's really cool. I love the photos here very much. Keep up with the good work.
If you want check out my blog: http://cyglobe.blogspot.com. Greetings from Greece.

Janny said...

Super post! Great giveaway, please count me in. I have something at my Blog also;o)

Malisa said...

Lucky daughter! You have a wonderful blog! Please sign me up for your marvelous drawing and then come visit me...I am participating in OWOH too...number 333 on the Magic Carpet! I am off to read more on your blog and I am looking forward to it!


moonlighthollowstudio@gmail.com

Candy said...

Thank you for a chance to win such a great offering!!
OWOH #473

Louise | Italy said...

What a lovely painting. I used to live near there, very close to the Thames. I have a love-hate relationship with the city (now I live in rural Italy), but seeing your painting makes me remember all the wonderful things it was and represented when I first hopped aboard my own magic carpet at the tender age of 18 and ended up in a painting!

gpc said...

I love the opportunity this contest gives me to discover new blogs like yours! Beautiful prize, too!

L'Adelaide said...

tessa, this is such a fascinating post about London and i learned so much about the city, i could practically use it as a travel guide--however since i am not, i will live vicariously!

as always your art is fabulous, gorgeous and mouthwatering...hoping i win :)

Merry ME said...

Wow! WHich is more enticing ... the interview with Alex or the 59 comments!I'm most impressed she answered her mother's sex in the city question. My daughter might have glared at me and changed the subject!

Gorgeous picture!

rochambeau said...

Thank you!! It's a pleasure
to see London through your eyes, Tessa!
Please toss my name into the hat. What a generous giveaway!!!

Constance

JaneT said...

Oh, how I love blue.

AlwaysInspired said...

Such a gorgeous painting! The color choices are sublime!
Come and join my magic carpet ride too!
http://inspiringadventuresofalwaysinspired.blogspot.com/

Creager Studios said...

Wonderful Read...Wonderful Artistic Giveaway..please include my name...Great to meet you.

Creager Studios #411

*jean* said...

amazing art and wonderful post! thank you!~
please count me in!!
*jean*
jeanzosss (at) yahoo (dot) com

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

Fabulous! I love your post and it really made me want to travel to London! Thanks for sharing! Please enter my name and visit me soon, too! ♥
http://lavenderdreamstoo.blogspot.com/

Heather Robinson said...

I just loved this post. It made me stop for a while and just read and take in all of your experiences. Thanks for the trip and for the wonderful giveaway.

FairlyGirly said...

Lovely prize, have a great birthday in SA. Thanks for the chance to win. my blog

Sherry said...

London is my birth place so is very dear to my heart.
I love your painting and wish you a happy birthday in SA.
If you haven't already, please stop by my giveaways too http://sherrysimpleblog.blogspot.com/2010/01/one-world-one-heart-giveaway-blog-event.html
Sherry from England, UK #251

Deb said...

blog celebration & great giveaway, count me in!

Val said...

ah Tessa - London is my favourite city for sure - i love the history, pageantry, parks, museums and galleries, the mix of people, the river - and for me there is a lot of nostalgia too - good memories of young time spent there. i love the painting! and am again inspired. I really enjoyed the interview too. thank you so much xx

Halle said...

Beautiful painting! Count me in please.
Stop by my giveaway when you have a chance #257

karen said...

Hi Tessa. This was so worth the long read! I absolutely love London, and it is still one of my favourite places to keep on revisiting. I did enjoy Alex's impressions - what a great idea..

Obviously I love your painting which is just beautiful - and would love to win it, so please enter me into your draw, too:)

Great to hear you will be in our part of the world in Feb - what a great birthday celebration!

Einschies blog said...

This is beautifully done, love it...

Gaby

Linda said...

Everyone will be flocking to London, you should do travel brochures professionaly, Beautiful art,Linda:)
Do drop in if you get a chance.. if you havent already, I'm getting dizzy on this carpet..
http://artwolfs-briar-rose-gate.blogspot.com/

Carole Burant said...

Such a delightful giveaway, I would so love to win your gorgeous painting and now I really want to go visit London:-) Please enter my name in your giveaway and make sure you come over to enter mine, I'm #116. Thank you! xox

Lisa said...

Excellent! I'd love to be added for this wonderful giveaway! Thank you so much for offering it.

Lisa
Pearl Avenue Studios
#647

Jacque Heaton said...

Love your giveaway! Please add me to the list and feel free to jump over to my giveaway as well!
stamps@scrollswork.com
Jacque
http://scrollswork.blogspot.com/2010/01/one-world-one-heart-give-away.html

peggy aplSEEDS said...

great colors in this painting!

Holly said...

Wonderful Q & A and a lovely giveaway! Thanks for the chance! (I'm #811)
HBKHotie1@msn.com

Digital Misfit said...

Amazing painting! I love you use of color to depict such a magical twilight.
I have never been to London, so I want to thank you for this lovely journey in words and photos.
Thank you for hopping aboard this magic carpet ride. I hope you get a chance to visit my blog #258 on your journey.
hugs from ON, Canada
Heidi
heidig@gmail.com

HereBeDragons said...

What a fabulous look at London. I love that city. Though I lived in South London.

Enjoy your trip. South Africa is next on my list of places to visit!

Ginger said...

That is such a nice story and lovely pictures about your daughter in London.
I have been enjoying your blog and will visit again;)

cyclona66(at)aol(dot)com

Tara... said...

what a fab post! i adore london but im at uni in glasgow so i rarely visit :(
i loke the print though - so please count me in. thanks for the chance to win! #822 sewgorgeous.blogspot.com

Ellen said...

gorgeous painting

I love going to london for a few days every now and then and soak up the atmosphere


please count me in; my carpet number is #397

kendalee said...

Oh Tessa, I loved reading this! Thank you to both of you for sharing it. One world, One heart - indeed. As another ex London resident, it also reminded me of all the many idiosyncrasies and things I love about the place. It really is a one-of-a-kind city! My dream lifestyle would allow 6-8 months of the year in based London and 4-6 months in Cape Town - a perfect combination for me and something I hope to achieve one day. In the meantime, I get to visit both occasionally and that's brilliant too. This virtual visit was a real treat :)

And I hope you have a lovely, sunny, sea and mountain rich Birthday in the fairest Cape!

polinka said...

What a pretty giveaway, please add me and feel free to come to my blog too.

Madame DeFarge said...

My London consists of the journey between work and the station. This makes me want to go out and find more. Work might object to the amount of time off that I'd need!

Unknown said...

never been to London but I love the picture. I really hpe to goe some day.

misaacmom at gmail dot com
#752 OWOH ticket holder

Cindy McMath said...

Your picture is fantastically gorgeous - I would love to display it. Thanks for entering my name!

I thoroughly enjoyed the trip through London - thanks to you and your daughter.

Cindy :)
annie1there@yahoo.com

Lori ann said...

Oh my goodness! what a fabulous post. Your daughter is so lovely and a fantastic tour guide.
And your painting is beyond beyond. I am so SO excited you are going to S.A. for your birthday.
Much LOve,
lori

Janice said...

What a fabulous giveaway! Please enter my name, thank you.

Saz said...

The whole post is a gift...let alone the painting....

thanks for participating Tessa and for all your commenters...I shall add my voice to the pot of luck!

saz x

Coralie Cederna Johnson said...

Greetings from Michigan USA! Your blog is beautiful!!! Please include me in your giveaway and come enter mine!

(#185 A Vintage Cottage Home)

Sam said...

what a great post - I loved reading it!! I am only an hour from London by train but really don't make much effort to get to London more than once or twice a year and I really should!!!

Love your picture - I would be honoured to hang it on my wall!

Meg Welch said...

Wonderful post and great painting! I hope you continue to have a great time in London.

OWOH 537

Robin said...

What a fabulous piece. It brings back lovely memories of years past, when I used to travel often to London.

My giveaway is for one of my fine art photographs - stop by and see what strikes your fancy.

Heiko said...

Well, I have to enter something here as well. My favourite "secret" place in London is Kensington Roof Gardens. If you don't know it's there you'll never find it. It's on 88 Kensigton High Street if I remember rightly. You go inside the building and ask the porter if you could go and see the roof garden. If you are lucky and no private function is on he'll direct you to the lift. You ride up to the 8th floor and you don't believe you are so far up. There are large trees a river and ponds with giant Koi carp and flamingoes, a Japanese garden, benches to sit down and hardly any visitors. Only the unusual perspective of nearby church spires reminds you you are 8 floors above the busy High Street.

Kim Mailhot said...

Thank you so much for the magical ride around your city through your eyes ! Very cool.
Thank you too for the chance to win your wonderful print. I hope you enjoy your OWOH adventure ! Cheers !

Michelle Frae Cummings said...

it would be a honor to display this...Thanks for a chance to win!
~Michelle
#877 OWOH

Unknown said...

'Lady Ottoline Morrell. Her circle of friends – and lovers – was formidable!' This answer inspired me to look up the good lady and she really is fascinating.
Thanks for the chance to win. The art is lovely. Trianna from Victoria Canada. tricklestogether@hotmai.com
http://triannastreasures.blogspot.com/

nfmgirl said...

Beautiful! Your daughter makes London seem so exciting! Please count me in. Thanks so much!

http://heatherseden.blogspot.com/

#273 on the Magic Carpet tour (southwest Florida, USA)

Gabriela said...

What a gorgeous painting!
Greetings frm Ohio!
gabriela

treasuregab@yahoo.com
OWOH#322

Anonymous said...

Please include me in your giveaway, thanks for the trip of London.....

Blessings from Maryland,
Donna
dwarrington1@gmail.com

Barbara Olivo Cagle said...

Hi Tessa, what a lovely idea and post you have. I love the gorgeous "Aerial Armadillo" painting. I'd love to win. I absolutely love your gifts. Please take time to visit my blog, too, for a chance to win my book, 16 x MOM: A Mastery of Motherhood. I'm working on getting all the country flags. I promise to revisit your's too.

#784
http://blog.barbaracagle.com
www.barbaracagle.com

Betty Boogie said...

Some day I would love to make it to London! I just watched a show on PBS yesterday about the royal family it was so interesting.

your artwork is beautiful!!!

Quiltmoose - Dagmar said...

Love your London impressions! What an unique city! Of course I'd be thrilled to win that gorgeous painting :-) So please include me in your drawing!
Have fun riding that Magic Carpet!

Greetings from Germany,
Dagmar (#160 on the carpet)

http://quiltmoose.blogspot.com/
quiltmoose(at)gmail(dot)com

Susan said...

Greetings from Salem ! Such fun traveling by magic carpet to visit new and old friends. lovely giveaway please enter me too! Susan pedolbailey@msn.com I invite you to visit my blog giveaway I have fresh baked brownies andcinnamon tea prepared for my visitors! seasonalwhimsies.blogspot.com

Anji Gallanos said...

Gorgeous painting. I would love a chance to win. Please enter me.

Thanks so much

Anji
anji.gallanos@gmail.com
http://anjigallanos.blogspot.com

Nancy Markosky said...

Thank you for the wonderful tour of London by your engaging daughter. I have never been to London and chances are, will never get there but that is the beauty of personal blogs- can visit through other people who live there. Thank you so much. I love the painting-beautiful. Please add my name to your generous giveaway and I hope you are having as much fun as I am checking out all these creative blogs.

Anonymous said...

*´*•.¸ ★*´* SUPERB! *´*•★ ¸.•*´*•

Please count me in!

XOXO

★Rich Witch★

Please visit me for a Most Magical Prize at:

http://rich-witch.blogspot.com/

*´*•.¸ ★ ¸.•*´*★•*´*•.¸★¸.•*´*•

elaine r said...

I have never been to London -it sounds wonderful! Your painting is gorgeous!

Elaine R
emrosser@shaw.ca

Marie S said...

I love London and I miss it, count me in on the drawing, it will make it bearable then.
If you get some time, fly by my blog on your magic carpet, I am #907.
Thank you for participating in OWOH.
So very very nice to meet you.

arlette said...

I love London, and I'd be thrilled to have a piece of it in my house

Unknown said...

It's nice to meet you! Thank you for the chance to win one of your wonderful creations. It was nice to hear about London. Your painting is beautiful. Don't forget to stop by all 3 of my blogs and enter my giveaways too!
Monica
http://giddygreetings.com
http://thezenlens.com
http://ggcaa.com
giddygreetings@yahoo.com

canngil said...

I would love to go to London someday. Long flight from Southern California though!
I would love to hang your London "portrait" and look at it in the meantime!

CreativSpirit said...

Hi Tessa,

Thanks for the grand tour of London, I would love to win you lovely painting. Please put me in the draw. I've enjoyed my visit and will be back again. Please come by and visit me at #70 on the Magic Carpet Ride, have a look around and enter into my draw. Great meeting you and enjoy the ride.

Rob

Anonymous said...

I'm in love with London, so a chance to win your painting would make me very happy. Thank you!

marilavado (at) gmail.com

Ria said...

I would love to go to London someday!:) Phiuh! Such a wonderful gift! Please count me in....and do pop in my blog to see what I put on my magic carpet!*wink

http://rnirwana.blogspot.com/2010/01/one-world-one-heart-giveaway.html

Have a nice day!

Ann said...

Love the painting Tessa! Really enjoyed your carpet ride round London. I do enjoy visiting London but can only take about 48 hours before wishing for the hills of home again! (can only afford 48 hours too ;o)

Yasmin Sabur said...

Hello from southern California, one world, one heart. May I quote the words on your banner? Lovely work.
Yasmin
y.sabur@yahoo.com

FiberArtisttoo said...

I have not made it to London yet but it is on my list. Your painting is incredibly beautiful and I would love to have it and keep my dream of going to London.
If you have a chance, check out my
blog #651 http://www.fiberartisttoo.com

Alice Stroppel said...

A lovely post about London. I enjoyed it very much. You painting if delightful, I'd love to own it.
please enter my name. Thanks for stopping by my blog to sign up to win my crazy girl bracelet. ticket holder #807
http://www.polymerclayetc.com

Alice Stroppel said...

A lovely post about London. I enjoyed it very much. You painting if delightful, I'd love to own it.
please enter my name. Thanks for stopping by my blog to sign up to win my crazy girl bracelet. ticket holder #807
http://www.polymerclayetc.com

angelandspot said...

Beautiful! Someday I would love to travel to London and take a ton of photos and visit the museums.

Antonella said...

I have never been to London, but it is one of the places I would love to visit. Thanks for your wonderful giveaway, please enter me for a chance and don't forget to stop by #234 on the magic carpet. I hope you are having as much fun as I am riding the magic carpet...
Hugs, Antonella :-)
www.quilling.blogspot.com

spindelmaker said...

London is my favorite city too! I try to go there twice a year, and there is always something new to be discovered. Your picture is really beautiful, by the way!
You are welcome to visit my blog and enter my give-away. Have a nice day!

PinkPug,INK. said...

That painting is beautiful! Thanks for the chance to win! Stop by & enter my giveaway too!

Inge Bungart said...

Great giveaway. Thanks for the chance to win

Jasmine said...

Pleased to meet you Tessa, I love your London scape. We miss London so much. Do you remember when they painted all the phone oxes in Upper St (Islington) pink?

Regina said...

Your blog is awesome. I love your pics of London and definately makes me want to get there one day. The painting is so nice... now I really want to make a visit there.

Regina :>
jtrt143@aol.com

Tamerie Shriver Halliday said...

Love, love, love the painting! The colors are just beautiful! Please add my name to your drawing. And be sure to stop by #389 for my giveaway.

Have a lovely birthday in South Africa!

Shashi Nayagam said...

What a beautiful painting. Love the lovely brilliant colours. I painted that scene last summer in water colours but I am not as talented as you and today while on Waterloo bridge in the twilight the Wheel and the back drop buildings looked so beautiful that I wished I could have captured that on my canvas.

Tamara C said...

Your painting is absolutely beautiful and I loved the interview with your daughter! I visited London about 10 years ago and loved it very much. Especially all the museums fairly close together. I fell in love with Waterhouse's Lady of Shallot even more when I saw how magnifiscently large it was in real life at the Tate Museum.

Thank you for sharing your heart and your art on this wonderful carpet ride! Hugs, Tamara from California, USA. :)

Nanbon44 said...

loved your tour, please enter me in the drawing, then stop by for a visit #649

WW said...

I’d love to be entered in your drawing. Stop by my blogs to be entered in mine.

WW

http://www.thefrogprincess-ww.blogspot.com/
http://www.weinkswonders.blogspot.com/

LYNDY WARD said...

Greetings & Salutations,
Enchanting London Painting OWOH Giveaway!
You're very talented.

Fabulous London PICs. I think Royalty should not make scathing remarks about their own townships. AND last but not least very funny about your bus ride... Sounds like you're having fun & enjoying a great career in the London cable music industry.

Fly by my blog when you get a chance...
Forbidden Planet Giveaway #242 On The List @:
http://todaysgold.com

Cosmic Blessings, Lyndy Ward

Kathy L said...

I love the painting. Simply breath taking and your presentation was wonderful..I read it all. NOw I want to go to London! Pease enter my name!
k
http://artful-musings-of-kathyl.blogspot.com/

Mia J. said...

I so enjoyed hearing about London. I have wanted to go there and this is inspiring me to save my pennies to get there. The painting is beaitiful. Thank you for your wonderful giveaway.

black eyed susans kitchen said...

You should seriously be on the board of tourism for London! There are so many things to love about London...the history, the people, the pubs, the art, the architecture...okay, I will stop now. Your artistic image is wonderful. Please count me in.
Susan

Deborah Ann said...

Your painting is heavenly! Please enter me in the draw, and be sure to stop by my blog to enter my giveaway. (#922)


Hugs,
Heavenly Humor

Unknown said...

Thanks for the giveaway!!

ozlynda said...

Hello from Victoria, Australia
I hope you have a Happy Birthday whenever it is, I have just celebrated mine too. I think your painting is awesome and reminds me of London the very short time I spent there many, many years ago.
Please enter me into the draw.
Thanks. Lynda.
http://taylormadeinoztales.blogspot.com/

BluMoon said...

What a great giveaway please ad me to your list. I would love you to visit my blog 599, thank you.

Diane said...

Great giveaway! Please include my name. Thank You!

Thistle Cove Farm said...

I was in London last month, loved it! My first solo abroad and am already planning on returning...solo!

Trayna said...

That really says London - you are very talented.
I would love a chance to win please. Thank you for your generosity.

s hyler said...

I would love to be in your wonderful drawing.

Sandra

Peggy said...

Beautiful blog and a stunning treasure!All this talk of London make me want to be there. It sounds magical!
I am flying on my magic carpet ,visiting from Connecticut. Thanks for the lovely giveaway I am blog #937
Thanks
matternu@gmail.com

Unknown said...

What a wonderful capture of London in words and pictures and I think your painting totally sums up what Alexandra so vividly describes! Have to agree with her choice of the Natural History Museum, and yes, London taxi drivers are a breed apart! Really makes me want to be back there! London Tourism authorities should hire both of you! ;-) xx

Jennifer said...

Tessa, thank you for this wonderful travelogue. I've never been to London, or anywhere in England. Yet, I have always wanted to and now have some invaluable personal insight to steer me.

Sophie said...

Beautiful painting! I would love a chance to win.
Cheers,
Sophie in Montreal

Connie said...

Hi Tessa!

Your painting is fabulous! Please count me in on your draw!

The interview with your daughter is terrific and I would really love to visit London one day. Looks and sounds like a wonderful city!

I'm #818 Studio 64-Chicago on the magic carpet. If you haven’t already done so, please stop by for a chance at my giveaway too.

Hope to see you there!

~Connie
mrscmc7 at gmail dot com

VintageCrafter said...

I loved your post with your daughter on London! I lived there for a year and loved it too! Please count me in for your wonderful giveaway....your painting brings me back....
*smiles*
Carol (now in Canada)

Paperfanatic said...

Hi from Ireland. Don't you just love the Gherkin. I lived in London for a few years and still miss the buildings and the buzz. This painting would be just the thing to keep me in touch.

Nancy Lynn said...

Wonderful painting. Would love to have it.

http://usingupallthatstuff.blogspot.com/2010/01/one-world-one-heart-lets-ride-magic.html

Unknown said...

What a wonderfully colourful vision of London - I will have to try and see it this way! I am so jealous you are going to SA, I am from there. Cape Town in Feb is just sublime! Please count me in and if you get a chance fly on by my giveaway #999 xxx

Glassgrrl Studios said...

Ah, London, where nearly 22 years ago I met the man of my dreams (though I didn't know it for a little while). The place where I lived in a Commer van, then a bedsit; where I worked as a foot courier, learning the alleys and shortcuts like the back of my hand (and getting lost in the dire docklands construction, feeling like a rat trapped in a maze).
A city full of memories, without a doubt.

Gera Scott Chandler said...

What a wonderful post!! It makes me want to journey to London once again!

Best wishes from Gera in Victoria Canada

Dianne said...

Never been to Europe, but would love to see London-thanks for the virtual tour through your daughter's eyes.
The piece is magnificent! Please enter me in your contest and come over to mine-#35 and try your luck if you wish! Thanks.
www.diadsie.wordpress.com

CathyH said...

Hi Tessa. Beautiful painting, thank you! I visited England 20 years ago and have wanted to go back since. I got locked in Hyde Park by accident though..lol. I have a huge album of photos and memories from my trip.
with love from Tennessee USA #1035

Carol said...

London has always been on my list of places to visit someday. You've made it even more intriguing.
Winning the painting would launch me into total bliss!

Elsina said...

Awesome painting. Love London! Thanks so much for the chance!

mitz said...

this is ** london-riffic** thanks for the opportunity.. .. t c
mitz_zee@yahoo.com

Gayle Page-Robak said...

Excellent, what a great giveaway! Please enter my name! I hope you will drop by my blog (#431 on the magic carpet) for a chance to win, too! :)

Leslie said...

Your painting is beautiful and I enjoyed your photos and the "trip" to London!

http://leslie-mylifeandtimes.blogspot.com/

calej said...

I like London too! I've been there once in 2001! What a marvelous giveaway!

I'm Christina from Manila, Philippines. It's nice to meet you! Hope you can drop by my site too at #615!

http://calej.blogspot.com

Hope to meet many friends this year! Blessings to you!
calejbitsvyk(at)gmail(dot)com

SusanLotus said...

Now I want to visit London :)
And the painting is just fabulous.
Susan, nr 821

susanlotus@gmail.com

Unknown said...

What an awesome giveaway! Would love to win.
Karla

Sugar and Spice Art Confections said...

Thank you for the tour of London! I have visited there once before. Love your painting...so beautiful and dreamy! Thank you for your generous giveaway. I hope you are enjoying the carpet ride too! Please be sure to visit my blog at #833! Rebecca in Connecticut, USA
ningmarie(at)aol.com

Caitlin said...

Your contribution to OWOH is so awesome!

-Caitlin
caitlin_thalken@yahoo.com

nologic said...

I loved the tour of London. Thank you!

Please include me in your drawing.

julietk said...

Visiting with One World One Heart, thank you for the chance to enter your draw, your painting is beautiful. London is my Home I have lived here all my life and I never tire of looking at it's beauty, feeling it's vibrancy, feeling part of it's greatness and history, seeing it's tradition to embrace all who come and embrace it. You shouldn't have asked LOL
please pop over and visit mine too.

Susan said...

Love the painting. I visited London in "98 and really loved it!!! Come on over and visit my blog sometime!

http://thisishowiroll-susan.blogspot.com/

kath001 said...

What a fun post! And the painting is absolutely mouthwatering. Love it. Please drop my name in the hat. Safe travels!

fourmilesnorthofnowhere@gmail.com

Gaby Bee said...

What a generous giveaway. Please count me in and thanks so much for a chance to win!

Express said...

I visited London for a week in 1986. Loved it! One of my best memories! Thanks for sharing all your photos. One of my regrets is that I didn't know as much about photography then as I do now!

Amanda31Gifts said...

OK - I LOVE all your photos! I really am really wishing I have the chance to go to London one day now! :)

Hi! I'd *love* a chance to win, please enter me in your giveaway! Thanks, Amanda :)

amanda31gifts@gmail.com
amanda31gifts.blogspot.com

ps - please visit me at #1031, Thank You! :)

Unknown said...

How Generous of you ! I'd love to be entered ♥ Thanks for the tour of England !

Missy ~ Winnipeg , Canada
http://misfitmomma.blogspot.com/
seksi_missy at hotmail dot com

Lisa W. said...

Would love to hang this in my house! Please enter my name. :0) I am also having a giveaway and would love for you to stop by. #1025

Cindy said...

Wow that was just so informative and wonderful, plus your painting is fantastic! Please enter my name in your drawing.
http://barbara-moorewhimsies.blogspot.com
or: lmoore@flippinweb.com

Deborah said...

I am hoping to go to London in April (keeping everything crossed!) so thanks for the great information. The painting is just awesome. Please add me to your giveaway. I am #26 on the Magic Carpet Ride.

Birgit said...

Hi there,

I love how you presented the city where you are currently living! :) Lovely painting, too.

If a glass bead necklace sounds good, you might want to visit my blog. It would be a pleasure to welcome you there. :)

Greetings from Munich,
Birgit
swappinghowdies@yahoo.de
# 849

Kelly said...

I absolutely love the colors! Thank you for the chance to win! :)

krtrumpet [at] aol [dot] com

Maya said...

What a great give-away event, please count me in!

Greetings from the Netherlands.

Zoe said...

I'm very familiar with London already, but have to say, that was a very interesting read!

Your painting is absolutely beautiful and I would love the chance to win it, thank you.

If you haven't already, please visit my blog at #711 on the magic carpet to win a designer Cath Kidston bag, handmade by me!

mrs beadsley said...

*sigh* what a lovely tour of London - really makes me want to visit! your painting is gorgeous and I would love it if you would toss my name in the hat. and if you have a moment, please stop by and enter my giveaway:
http://mrsbeadsley.blogspot.com/2010/02/one-world-one-heart.html

Kansas Amy said...

BEAUTIFUL!! Please enter me for the lovely OHOW giveaway! I would love to win!
Thanks for letting me visit!
Stop by to visit me sometime..... http://creativeinkansas.blogspot.com

me again said...

Cool post and cool prize. Would love to visit London some day!

If you haven't already popped by my blog, eat write create, please fly over on this magic carpet and enter my giveaway for some of my photographic art cards.

alphabetsoupstudio AT yahoo DOT ca

Just Jenn Designz said...

Greetings from Virginia.
Oh wow... I just LOVE your artwork! Great blog you have too! Please enter my name into your fabulous drawing for a chance to win.

Also, I would love for you to stop by my blog to enter my giveaway - #548.
Thanks,
Jenn

AJ said...

Greetings from Manila, Philippines! Thanks for the giveaway ( :

AJ

A_C_E_ at hotmail dot com

artymarty said...

What a fantastic blog post. My daughter was in London last year as a tourist and loved it too. And your painting would be very comfortable in my Sydney home.
Martina #1038

Kate Coveny Hood said...

By far one of the best OWOH giveaways! I have some great memories of London...

Anonymous said...

I have wanted to visit London ever since I was a child. I had saw Lindsey Lohan's Parent Trap. Haven't made it over there yet. Since, I probably won't, I would love your painting instead. Hoping to win. onelovelygurl05@msn.com

Life's Simple Pleasures said...

Always wanted to go to London. This is as far as it gets for now.

Thanks!

reviewsbyabby at gmail dot com

Chris said...

Awesome tour of London! Cool painting. I'd love to win.

Unknown said...

Would love to be entered. Lovely painting! Have a fun trip!

shiki6210 at gmail dot com

Singtatter said...

Simply lovely! Thanks for the chance to win your beautiful painting!

Do visit me at #976 (http://singtatter-corner.blogspot.com), if you haven't, to win a personalised tatted nametag!

afineday said...

Some day I'd love to see London! Thank you for a phenomenal door prize!

brc668 (At) gmail (dot) com

Lillian M said...

Id love a chance to win
sugarbirds@gmail.com
http://www.canadianscraptramp.blogspot.com/

Heather! said...

What a fabulous door prize! I have never been to London, but am trying to make it this year. Last year I moved from Ohio to Dublin, Ireland, so I'm getting closer! :)

Thanks for participating in OWOH...it's such a great event!

www.idigressblog.blogspot.com
h4schaffer at gmail dot com

Shona Cole said...

I was born and later married in London and have been there many times, thank you for the show. Your picture would mean a whole lot to me :)

Shona cole #50
http://shonastudio.blogspot.com/

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