What’s the best thing about gallery openings and exhibition launches? Sure, the opportunity to be among the first to lay eyes on new artwork feels special and exclusive. Half the time, anyone can stroll in off the street and feel like part of the art-world. But really the best part is the free drinks – no exhibition opening is complete without a few glasses of wine to get you sharing your opinions on the artwork with everyone within earshot. Grand Marnier understands the allure of the art-adjacent drinks, but are adding a touch of class to the affair. They’re matching up the artwork in Gallery Different’s latest (and free) exhibition with cocktail pairings.
On October 12, Fitzrovia’s Gallery Different will be hosting Grand Marnier x Gallery Different – Trio of Solo Shows. Artwork for the show comes from visual artist, Mick Dean, stylised sculptor Stephen Page, and still-life artist Patsy Whiting. Complementary Grand Marnier serves will match cocktails with culture through drinks designed to elevate the exhibition experience. That’s right free cocktails, and a free exhibition too. It’s a win-win frankly for lovers of liquid libation and artistic exhibition.
The artwork and cocktail pairing
The exhibition, and complementary artwork cocktail pairing, mark the artistic debut of the luxury French cognac and bitter orange liqueur brand. The drinks will include a serve of Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge mixed with Salt, Demerara & Bitters – a nod to Stephen Page’s sculptures and inspired by the Welsh coastline, where he is based. The drink for Patsy Whiting celebrates her most recent work with roses. To make the drink Grand Marnier Rouge is combined with rose essence and Champagne. And then for Mick Dean the brand was inspired by the artist’s focus on London’s industrial past. The serve blends Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge with Manzanilla Sherry, Pear, Lemon, and a splash of Soda.
Said Karina Phillips, Gallery Director at Gallery Different:
“We’re thrilled to team up with Grand Marnier to host this exhibition, featuring some breath-taking work from our talented trio of artists. The combination of contemporary art mixed with perfectly poured cocktails makes this a very exciting collaboration for art lovers to enjoy.”
Tickets are free and available on the door. However capacity is limited, and tickets will be allocated on a first-comes-first-served basis. So be sure not to arrive late if you’re desperate to get in. Find the exhibition at Gallery Different, 14 Percy Street, London, W1T 1DR, on Wednesday October 12, starting at 6 PM. Find out more about the show, and the gallery itself, at the Gallery Different website.