The Beat of the Show - Thomas Houseago

If the noise and haste of the Royal Mile is getting to you already, I urge you to visit Thomas Houseago's exhibition at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Though huge, metallic and rough around the edges, Houseago's shining collection subtly blends into its leafy background; the piece entitled 'Reclining Figure', placed near a viewpoint of the whole city, echoes Arthur's Seat's curves, while the totemic 'Rattlesnake Figure' has woodgrain etched into its aluminium surface, letting it merge with the surrounding trees. A little far-flung, the pieces are easy to miss if you're not looking- or can't read maps. That said, if you find yourself with a sunny day and a compass handy, let Houseago draw you off the beaten path.

***
Royal Botanical Garden – Inverleith House, 1 Aug – 4 Sep, 10:00am (open til 5:45pm), free

[originally written for ThreeWeeks magazine]

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