I have just returned from a couple of days in London.
The main reason for the visit was to take my entry along to the Royal Academy Summer Show for the second stage of judging. Having taken my large, wrapped package on a crowded overground train from South London to Charing Cross, I decided not to risk the busy London Underground. So, I walked the rest of the way.
Although I was born in London and was a constant resident until 2009, I rarely spent time wandering around the centre. So I took the opportunity to take a slow walk to about halfway down the Mall. By this time, the print was becoming heavy – it was time for a rest stop. The steps leading up to the impressive column and statue of the Duke of York seemed like a good place to take a break.
After that nod of acknowledgement from the Duke, I continued on up the steps (yes, the rhyme immediately sprang to mind) towards Piccadilly.
A little later, nearing the Royal Academy, I suddenly began to feel nervous. Before taking the actual framed print, I hadn’t really appreciated how much I cared about the prospect of having a print in the exhibition. I turned off Piccadilly down Sackville Street and Burlington Gardens and into West Yard and the rear of the building.
Delivered!! A big thanks to the staff at the RA, who were so helpful to everyone delivering their art. I’m sure they realise how delivering works is a little like handing over one’s baby to a stranger.
All I can do now is wait and see if the print makes it into the exhibition.