December has arrived, bringing with it the festive cheer of Christmas markets and the magic of the holiday season. But beyond the twinkling lights and bustling crowds, Europe is brimming with a diverse array of cultural experiences that are sure to delight and inspire. This week, prepare to immerse yourself in a world of art, film, architecture, and music, as we guide you through the continent’s most captivating offerings.
Illuminating Lyon and the European Film Awards:
Lyon’s annual Festival of Lights transforms the city into a breathtaking spectacle, with over 30 mesmerizing light installations illuminating historical monuments and public spaces until December 8th. This tradition, dating back to 1852, offers a captivating blend of history and modern artistry. Meanwhile, the prestigious European Film Awards take place in Lucerne, Switzerland on December 7th, showcasing the year’s most celebrated cinematic achievements, with Jacques Audiard and Pedro Almodóvar’s Golden Lion winners among the leading nominations. We’ll provide live coverage of the event, so stay tuned for updates.
Art and Architecture: A Visual Feast:
For those seeking respite from the holiday frenzy, several captivating art exhibitions offer a sanctuary of creativity. In London, the Victoria Miro Gallery presents a fascinating exploration of dance and movement through art, showcasing the works of artists like Florence Peake and France-Lise McGurn. This exhibition, open until January 18th, 2025, offers a unique perspective on capturing human kineticism. A virtual reality experience on the Vortic platform makes the exhibition accessible to a wider audience. Simultaneously, Rome’s National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art presents an exhibition that delves into the past, while the ADI Design Museum in Milan offers a unique display of dog kennels – a surprising yet intriguing display of design. And for architecture enthusiasts, the Mies van der Rohe Awards exhibition in Barcelona, celebrating Europe’s Best Buildings, showcases 362 projects from 38 countries until December 12th, 2024. This is a limited-time opportunity to witness architectural excellence.
Cinema and Television: New Releases and Binge-Worthy Shows:
Film lovers are in for a treat with the European release of Luca Guadagnino’s highly anticipated ‘Queer’, a tantalizing adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ work, starring Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey. This cinematic gem, beginning its rollout on December 13th, is a mesmerizing portrait of heartbreak and hedonism, sure to captivate audiences. On the small screen, Netflix’s new spy series ‘Black Doves’, starring Keira Knightley, offers a thrilling blend of espionage, affairs, and British wit. For a lighter viewing experience, the new Star Wars series offers a galactic adventure perfect for families, following four children on a quest with the help of a Jedi, adding a unique family-friendly viewing opportunity.
Music: New Releases and Collaborations:
The music scene also offers excitement with the release of Shabaka Hutchings’ new EP, ‘Possession’, featuring a star-studded collaboration of jazz and hip-hop artists. This fresh EP follows his critically acclaimed album ‘Perceive its Beauty, Acknowledge its Grace’, promising a vibrant and dynamic musical experience.
This December, Europe offers a rich and diverse range of cultural experiences, catering to every taste and interest. From dazzling light displays to thought-provoking art exhibitions and captivating cinematic releases, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, step into the festive spirit and embrace the magic of this season’s European cultural highlights.
