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Explore: Cloud songs on the horizon

Cloud Songs on the Horizon installation in conservatory

A day of workshops and activities celebrating Ranjani Shettar’s artworks in the Conservatory.

Wander the Barbican Conservatory in the early evening, enjoying the suspended sculptures by Ranjani Shettar amidst the plants, and take part in printmaking, photo weaving, and embroidery inspired by Shettar’s practice. A performance by emerging musical virtuoso Eeshar Singh will welcome visitors to the Conservatory with the unique and emotive sounds of the santoor.

These few hours between 4-7pm will have followed a morning of activities for schools and community groups, in a day dedicated to exploring the installation Cloud songs on the horizon.

Access for the Ranjani Shettar exhibition:

The Conservatory is split between two levels: Level 4 Conservatory Terrace and Level 3 Conservatory/Gallery Floor. Both can be reached via the main lifts. The entrance, for ticket and bag checks, can be found at the Level 4 entrance/exit, where patrons can access our terrace and Arid house. Patrons can then make their way down to Level 3 by going back out the entrance/exit and taking the external lift. Our staff will be there to assist you down to this lower level, to visit the rest of the venue.

With the exception of guide dogs, dogs are not permitted inside the Conservatory. 

For more access information, please visit our Accessibility section or contact the Box Office at [email protected] with any access related enquiries.

Ranjani Shettar: Cloud songs on the horizon has been commissioned in partnership with the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA).

This event is supported by KNMA, the first private museum of art in India, exhibiting modern and contemporary works from India and the sub-continent.

kiran nadar museum of art

Public Workshops

Printmaking 
Conservatory Terrace (level access on level 4)
Visitors can try their hand at a small printing station, where they'll have the opportunity to create unique prints to take home. From traditional techniques to experimental methods, there's something for everyone to enjoy. This workshop is delivered by artist Shivangi Ladha, based on Ranjani's curiosity to dig into flat surfaces and create textures using printmaking techniques. 

Drawing with Thread 
Garden Room (level access on level 3)
Participants will use photos from the Barbican Archive and lino prints to explore the art of drawing with thread. From intricate designs to abstract compositions, this activity offers a new perspective on visual storytelling. 

Photo Weaving
Conservatory Well (level access on level 3)
Explore the technique of weaving by combining colourful photos of the Conservatory with black-and-white images of London architecture from the Barbican Archive, allowing us to merge natural elements with urban aesthetics to spark new ideas and narratives.

Eeshar Singh, performing in partnership with Darbar Festival
Conservatory Well (Level access on level 3)
Emerging musical virtuoso Eeshar Singh welcomes visitors to the Conservatory with the unique and emotive sounds of the santoor. As the sound fills the space, visitors will be able to contemplate the sculptures of Ranjani Shettar and participate in workshops.
Eeshar’s performances will be from 5.00-5.40pm and 6.10-6.50pm.