The Romanian Cultural Institute in London is thrilled to present a major exhibition of watercolours by Queen Marie of Romania, many of which have never been seen in public before. They are part of two manuscripts held by the Romanian Academy, depicting flowers of Romania. Lithographs of Marie’s watercolours will be displayed alongsideThe Transylvania Florilegium collection of exquisite botanical art commissioned by King Charles III. The exhibition offers a vivid dialogue between the two royal collections, celebrating Romania’s astonishing biodiversity.
The exhibition is curated by art historian Dr.Shona Kallestrup of St Andrews University and historian and collectorSorin Mărgărit, and it will be hosted by The King’s Foundation Garrison Chapel Gallery, in central London.
Throughout the four-week programme (18 September - 14 October), expert speakers will delve into Queen Marie’s diverse talents and her cultural legacy. Dr.John Akeroyd, royal botanist to King Charles III, will speak about the rare Transylvanian flora depicted in the Queen's works, Dr.Shona Kallestrup, Professor of Art History at the University of St Andrews, will explore Queen Marie’s literary and artistic genius, while designer and heritage advocateIoana Corduneanu, founder of the Europa Nostra awardeeSemne Cusute,will discuss the Queen’s role as a protector and promoter of Romania’s traditional embroidery and folk art.
British-born Queen Marie of Romania (1875 – 1938) was one of the most charismatic royal consorts of the early 20th century. Artist, writer and stateswoman, she played a key role in the creation of Greater Romania after the First World War.
The flagship programme of The Romanian Cultural Institute in London is the celebration of Queen Marie’s legacy to mark 150 years since her birth. An iconic figure in Romanian history, she is a key bridge personality between our country and the United Kingdom.
Join us in celebrating the life and legacy of our remarkable Queen and experience a rich cultural dialogue that spans history, nature, and the arts! This programme of events is organised in collaboration with The King’s Foundation, the Romanian Academy, University of St Andrews and the Embassy of Romania in the United Kingdom. Free entry on all dates and for all events.
We are grateful for the support of: Macromex, Regina Maria, Impactum, Eidos Foundation, Upgrade 100.
Event schedule:
THURSDAY 18 September, 7pm
Private View of the “Marie of Romania, Artist Queen” exhibition
The exhibition will open at The Garrison Chapel in Chelsea Barracks, London SW1W 8BG. Opening hours: Mon-Fri between 11am - 6pm and Sat - Sun between 11am - 4pm.
FRIDAY 19 September, 7pm
Talk: “Romania’s remarkable heritage of wildflowers”, by botanist John Akeroyd
Dr. John Akeroyd will share insights into the remarkable wildflowers of Romania, many of whom are rare or endangered. His talk will highlight species featured in Queen Marie’s botanical paintings, some of which also appear in theTransylvania Florilegium.
FRIDAY 3 October, 7pm
Talk: “Marie of Romania: Artist Queen”, by art historian Shona Kallestrup
Dr Shona Kallestrup, the exhibition’s lead curator, will discuss Marie of Romania’s flower paintings within the wider context of her unusual designs for palace interiors, costumes, furniture and fairy tales.
THURSDAY 9 October, 7pm
Talk: “The Sewn Signs of the Queen”, by heritage advocate Ioana Corduneanu
Focusing on Romania’s textile arts and crafts and drawing guidance from Queen Marie’s style, strategy and symbolic choices, Ioana Corduneanu will follow signs and clues left by The Queen and translate her messages for contemporary audiences.
