When you think of mini golf and crazy golf, you probably think of fairgrounds, amusement parks, birthday parties, and first dates. But have you ever considered where the game comes from? I know I never have. But a unique exhibition recently opened in Battersea that invites visitors to play a bizarre game of mini golf that takes them back in time to learn more about the game. This is ‘The Art of Mini Golf’.
The playable exhibition opened in June at the Battersea Arts Centre. And initially, it was set to close down on July 26. However, due to popular demand, the exhibition has now been extended into August. The Art of Mini Golf will remain open to visitors until August 9. But that’s still not far off, so be sure to check it out soon so you don’t miss out!
The Art of Mini Golf
‘The Art of Mini Golf’s arrival in London marks the UK premiere of the exhibition, which first debuted in Melbourne earlier this year. The exhibition draws on the game’s history: it was invented in the 19th century as an alternative to ‘real golf’, which women were banned from playing.
The hands-on experience features “mini-golf holes designed by leading artists including Delaine le Bas, Miranda July, Saeborg and Kaylene Whiskey”. They include everything from “strap-on latex animal tails to a 1970s amusement park ride”. Yeah, needless to say, this ain’t your ordinary mini golf experience.
Altogether, the exhibition features nine ‘golf hole artworks’. And unlike most exhibitions, you’re invited to step onto and play with the art. You could putt your golf ball into a wave (and have your fortune told). You could try to navigate a surreal video environment as you aim for a hole-in-one.
Or you could find yourself facing off against a haunting version of a classic fairground attraction, which adds a creepy human element to the game. One hole even demands you to use a square ball!
Oh, and that afore-mentioned animal tail? Yeah, that particular hole sees you swapping your traditional putter for a strap-on latex animal tail. And you’ll have to use your whole body to keep the ball in play.
Find out more about ‘The Art of Mini Golf’ and book your ticket here.
📍 Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN.
🚇 The nearest station is Clapham Junction.
