Moments of Transformation

Quote of the Week - “Knowing yourself is the start of all wisdom.” - Aristotle

Good Afternoon, London. With another holiday weekend around the corner allow this edition of The London Palette to tease your gaze. Take a short trip to Southern Italy and indulge in their finest cuisine via SicilyFEST. Head to Merton’s party of the year to celebrate its 60th anniversary with Norman Jay OBE, Abba Revival and Artful Dodger. If you fancy a stroll along the Thames, you may even catch sight of London’s plastic eating shark.

Snatched highlights from this edition:

1. Feast at the Volunteer-Led Festival in West Norwood

2. Serenity is Waiting for You at a Secret Plant Paradise

3. Change Your Gaze and See London With a Bold New Lens

4. Live Music - Tributes to João Gilberto, Fleetwood Mac & lots more!

Let’s dive in.

—Bybreen Samuels

COUNCIL CANVAS

Merton Turns 60 - Celebrate at We Are Merton Fest

What do you get when a London borough turns 60? In Merton’s case, the answer is a month-long celebration that culminates in the biggest community festival the borough has ever seen. In a few days time on Bank Holiday Monday, Morden Park transforms into a colourful playground for We Are Merton Fest. This inter-generational event is packed with music, food, art, and family fun. Beyond the party vibes, it’s a living portrait of what makes Merton unique.

This is a meaningful anniversary because in an era when local identity can feel diluted, Merton is doubling down on its roots and future. The council has curated five weeks of exhibitions, heritage walks, school art competitions, and library craft sessions, all leading up to this grand finale. At the heart of it all is a spirit of togetherness. We Are Merton Fest invites every resident to reflect on the borough’s journey from its 1965 beginnings to the thriving, diverse community it is today.

The festival itself promises something for everyone. Expect live entertainment on the newly upgraded Morden Park bandstand, a showcase of local talent, street food stalls, family activities, and a chance to get hands-on with community art projects. The event also launches the We Are Merton Big Conversation, where local stories and ideas will help shape the borough’s next chapter.

While many London boroughs struggle to keep community spirit alive amid rapid change, Merton is betting on celebration and collective memory as the glue that binds old and new. Residents aren’t just spectators, they’re co-creators, whether by sharing memories, planting wildflowers, or helping design the next wave of pocket parks.

Join the festivities at Morden Park this Monday. All the free tickets have already gone. However, there are general admission tickets available, they’re £15.00 for adults and £5.30 for children and young people aged from 6 to 15 years old. Children under 6 go free. Bring your friends, family, and excitement. Merton’s story is still being written, and on its 60th birthday, everyone gets a say in the next chapter.

CITY PALETTE

Gabriel Moses - London Through a Bold New Lens

Gabriel Moses offers you a lens to see and experience London like never before. If you’re craving something fresh, soulful, and captivating, his exhibition Selah at 180 Studios is definitely calling your name. You’ll find yourself surrounded by over 70 photographs and 10 films that pulse with rich colour and deep emotions. Gabriel, born and raised in Camberwell, draws on his British-Nigerian heritage and the energy of South London, to weave memory, family, and cultural identity into every frame.

His work has already turned heads at Vogue, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Nike, but seeing it all together, up close, is something else entirely. Selah isn’t just a greatest hits collection. Alongside iconic music videos for Travis Scott and Playboi Carti, and portraits of cultural icons like Skepta and Alek Wek, you’ll be among the first to experience a brand new series of photographs and the premiere of his short film, The Last Hour. Shot in Atlanta, his film is a poetic exploration of solitude and redemption. It’s both visually stunning and emotionally arresting.

What makes this show truly unmissable is the immersive atmosphere. The exhibition space itself is designed to draw you in and keep you there. It’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and connect with the stories behind each image. Gabriel’s work celebrates the women who shaped him, the legacy of South London, and the captivating cultural tapestry of our city. At just 26, Gabriel has already designed the 2025 BRIT Award trophy and published his first monograph, Regina.

Gabriel is part of a new wave of young, multicultural London artists who are finally getting their due and this is your chance to witness it firsthand. Selah runs at 180 Studios until July 27. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just looking for inspiration, this is the time to experience the future of London’s creative scene, up close, personal, and unforgettable.

Book tickets here - https://www.180studios.com

SicilyFEST - A Taste of Sicily Blooms in London

If you’re longing for a taste of the Mediterranean, you don’t need to book a flight just head to the Business Design Centre this bank holiday weekend. SicilyFEST is back and is celebrating its 10th anniversary. You’ll enjoy even more flavour, music, and surprises than ever before. Once you enter the festival you’ll feel like you’ve landed in a bustling Sicilian street market. Picture yourself wandering past stalls piled high with golden arancini, sweet cannoli, pistachio treats, and the kind of gelato that makes you close your eyes in delight.

There’s everything from traditional pasta and gourmet panini to liqueurs, preserves, and, of course, plenty of Sicilian wine. Every bite and sip you take, is a little escape to the sun-drenched island. SicilyFEST is more than just food and drink, it’s a time to celebrate Sicilian culture. This year, the festival pulls out all the stops with a lineup that spans the traditional to the contemporary. Tonight, you can catch the UNESCO-recognised folk ensemble Val D’Akragas, whose colourful costumes and energetic dances bring Sicily’s heritage to life.

The party keeps going with Spaghetti Disco’s live band and DJ sets, plus headline performances from legendary Italian singer-songwriter Alan Sorrenti, rising star LA NIÑA, and the genre-blending Sicilian artist IDDA. If you’re interested in learning more about Sicilian cuisine, don’t miss the cooking demos and masterclasses led by top chefs. And if you love wine, the dedicated Wines of Sicily experience is your chance to taste the island’s best vintages and discover what makes Sicilian terroir so unique. There’s even a kids’ corner with crafts and games, so you can bring the whole family along for the adventure.

SicilyFEST is also about community, connection, and celebrating the Mediterranean spirit right here in London. Whether you’re a seasoned Italophile or just curious to try something new, you’ll find yourself swept up in the festival’s infectious energy. So why not make a day or more of it? Bring your appetite, dancing shoes, and sense of curiosity.

Book tickets here - https://sicilyfest.co.uk

UNDISCOVERED GEMS

Chelsea Physic Garden - London’s Secret Plant Paradise

There’s a historical botanical haven in Chelsea that has just thrown open its gates for you to meander through its annual, free Plant Festival. This truly is a plant lover's paradise. Take this rare opportunity to explore the four-acre medicinal garden while browsing over 35 carefully curated stalls. They feature everything from rare specimens to decorative houseplants and botanical-inspired gifts. What makes this festival very special is its setting within the 350-year-old walled garden, where the microclimate created by the historic brick walls has supported exotic plant cultivation since 1673.

As you wander paths that were walked by apprentice apothecaries learning to identify medicinal herbs, you'll discover demonstrations in the drop in demo tent where experts share gardening wisdom and creative botanical crafts. Previous festivals have featured everything from flower crown making to mushroom cultivation workshops. So there’s something for both seasoned gardeners and newcomers. No doubt you’ll find something to shop until your heart’s content.

The festival also provides a perfect opportunity to explore the Garden's remarkable collection of medicinal, herbal, and useful plants. You can marvel at the first Cedar of Lebanon trees grown in England. Plus, make sure to take in the displays of edible, poisonous, and medicinal plants that tell the story of our complex relationship with the plant kingdom. While you’re there make sure to visit the Physic Garden Cafe to enjoy a nibble, sip or something more hearty, in this beautiful calming environment. Relax and take in this rare glimpse into one of London's most cherished green sanctuaries.

Find out more here - https://www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

LONDON BUZZ

River Rescue - A Robot Shark Cleans Up the Thames

Jaws hasn’t made its way to the Thames. But a silent, sleek shark is patrolling London’s waters and it’s hungry for plastic, not fish. Meet WasteShark, our city’s new eco-hero is quietly gobbling up bottles, coffee cups, and stray rubbish, one crisp packet at a time. The Thames, often called the lifeblood of London, is also one of the world’s most plastic-polluted rivers. There are some stretches of it with over 300 pieces of plastic per square metre. This sobering statistic threatens the river’s 125 fish species and its fragile ecosystem.

WasteShark is a fully autonomous, battery-powered robot that cruises up to five kilometres a day, collecting up to 500 kilograms of plastic before heading back to base to be emptied and recharged. The robot’s haul doesn’t just disappear, it’s recycled into packaging, furniture, and even building materials. Locals like Dennis Njenga have praised the initiative, saying, “It’s great to know that there is technology out there that can benefit the Thames, environmentally.”

So while WasteShark is a leap forward, it’s still a band aid on a much bigger problem. The real challenge is in changing our habits because as long as plastic keeps flowing into the river, the clean up operation never ends. But there’s hope because local groups like Thames21 are teaming up with companies offering tech solutions. This allows for engaging collaborations including grassroots action with innovation to tackle pollution at both ends.

Could WasteShark be the first of many? As more robot labs and AI-powered boats join the fight, our city could become a global leader in smart river management. But the real win will come when all residents, businesses, and policymakers unite to stop plastic at its source. Until then, if you spot a robotic fin on the Thames, give a silent cheer. London’s battle against plastic just got a highly skilled tech ally, and the river is starting to sparkle again, one bite at a time.

LONDON SOUNDSCAPE

Green Note - May 4 and 5

If you’re longing for a night that channels the golden age of Brazilian music, Mario Bakuna’s tribute to João Gilberto on Saturday is your ticket to Rio without leaving Camden. Mario, a celebrated London-based Brazilian guitarist and vocalist, breathes new life into the classics of João, the “father of bossa nova.” His blend of samba, jazz, syncopated rhythms, and gentle guitar style changed global music forever. You can expect soulful reinterpretations of bossa nova standards and Brazilian gems, all delivered with Mario’s skillful touch and velvety vocals. In an era of digital playlists, this intimate, candlelit show is a rare chance to experience the subtle magic of bossa nova.

What happens when a band formed in New Zealand and shaped in Nashville brings their sound to a Camden basement? You’ll find out on Monday, when South for Winter take the stage. And if you love music that blurs boundaries, you’ll be swept up by their acoustic duets, folk, and murder ballads layered with lyricism and harmonies. Nick Stone and Dani Cichon, multi-instrumentalists, weave guitar, mandolin, foot percussion, and their signature harmonies into a sound American Songwriter calls “impeccable.” Their music is rare on the folk circuit, drawing you in with intricate guitar work and vocals that feel both personal and expansive.

Book tickets here - https://www.greennote.co.uk

Grow Hackney - May 2

If you’re craving a fresh jolt to your Friday night, Fraka are set to reboot your weekend with a genre-blurring set that’s all about movement and energy. This seven piece collective fuses jazz, afrobeat, and highlife, weaving hypnotic rhythms and psychedelic soundscapes into a sound as electrifying as their name. With members from across Europe, Fraka’s fearless jazz fusion means you’ll be swept from soaring melodies to deep, dancefloor grooves. Their live shows thrive on improvisation and bold musicianship, making them the perfect way to launch your weekend. If you want to experience one of London’s most exciting new bands and a night where sitting still isn’t an option, Fraka is your ticket.

Book tickets here - https://www.growhackney.co.uk

Pizza Express Soho - May 5

How often do you hear the hidden stories behind jazz’s greatest women, told through songs they actually wrote? On Monday, rising star Ineza joins the Alex Webb Trio for Women's Words, Sisters Stories. They’re celebrating the songwriting genius of Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Betty Carter, Abbey Lincoln, and more. Rather than just covering the classics, Ineza brings her expressive, emotionally rich voice to the repertoire these women penned themselves, from Billie’s Tell Me More to Peggy’s It’s a Good Day, plus modern gems by Jazzmeia Horn and Cecile McLorin Salvant. With Alex’s deft piano, Charlie Pyne’s bass, and Katie Patterson’s drums, this is a fresh celebration of women’s voices shaping jazz.

Book tickets here - https://www.pizzaexpresslive.com

Ronnie Scott’s - May 9

If you think you’ve heard it all when it comes to jazz piano, Rolando Luna is about to change your mind. Head to Soho to catch this Cuban phenomenon’s UK debut.. You’ll be talking about it long after the last encore. Rolando’s playing is a dazzling blend of elegance, poetry, and rhythmic joy. He slips effortlessly from classical flourishes to soulful jazz improvisations, while always honouring his Caribbean roots. He is joined by Lukmil Perez on drums and Thibault Soulas on double bass. And together, they deliver a sound that’s both exhilarating and intimate, conjuring the spirit of a Havana jam session.

Book tickets here - https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk

St. Paul’s Church Covent Garden - May 2

There’s something magical about hearing your favourite show tunes in a setting that feels straight out of a storybook. Beyond the busy Covent Garden streets is a historic sanctuary aglow with over 1,000 candles. Here, the award-winning Icon Strings Quartet transforms hits from Les Misérables, Wicked, Mamma Mia!, and West Side Story into lush, emotive string arrangements. Surrounded by the church’s theatrical history and intimate grandeur, you’ll be swept up in the music of the pure, expressive power of strings weaving together Broadway classics old and new. The atmosphere is enchanting and the musicianship top tier. So it’s easy to lose yourself in the melodies and forget the world outside.

Book tickets here - https://actorschurch.org

The Blues Kitchen Brixton - May 4

If you’re itching for a Bank Holiday Sunday that’s all about big tunes and even bigger vibes, then Brixton has something for you. Enjoy the full live set dedicated to Fleetwood Mac, delivered by the Blues Kitchen’s much loved house band. You’ll get to relive classics like Dreams, The Chain, Everywhere, and Go Your Own Way. They’re all performed with the kind of energy that turns nostalgia into a communal celebration. But the night doesn’t stop there because after the Mac tribute, the band keeps the floor moving with two more sets packed with funk, soul, R&B, and Motown. While the resident DJs keep the dancefloor hot until the wee hours of the morning.

Book tickets here - https://theblueskitchen.com/brixton

The Half Moon - May 7

Catch Belfast’s Dom Martin at The Half Moon for an intimate night of blues mastery. Recently crowned Instrumentalist of the Year at the 2025 UK Blues Awards, Dom’s soulful guitar work and powerful vocals have earned him comparisons to Rory Gallagher and Gary Moore, plus a string of accolades including Best Acoustic Blues Artist 2020–22 and Best Blues Album 2024 for Buried in the Hail. His shows are renowned for raw emotion and connection, drawing in crowds across the UK and Ireland. Joining him is rising star Thomas Heppell. If you’re a fan of authentic, electrifying live music, then this is a show you cannot miss.

Book tickets here - https://www.halfmoon.co.uk

The Jazz Cafe - May 4

What happens when activism and artistry collide in Camden? Lowkey has arrived. He brings his electrifying matinee show to The Jazz Cafe, offering more than just a performance. It’s more like a rallying call. As one of the UK’s most politically charged rappers, Lowkey tackles everything from war and global poverty to race and resistance, fusing razor sharp lyrics with anthemic hooks that linger long after the show. His new album, Soundtrack to the Struggle 3, is his most personal yet. It resonates with fans who see their own stories reflected in his words. Live, Lowkey’s sets are known for raw energy and crowd unity, often feeling more like a movement than a gig.

Book tickets here - https://thejazzcafe.com

The Pheasantry - May 3

If you’re after a night where every song makes you want to dance, The Soul Trippers at The Pheasantry should be top of your list. This eight piece band, fronted by four powerhouse vocalists, delivers Motown and Philly soul classics alongside disco anthems from legends like The Temptations, Sister Sledge, and The Jackson Five. After a decade of sell-out shows at PizzaExpress Live venues, they return ready to unite you all in song and dance. You’ll experience pure joy, timeless grooves, and a reminder that soul music’s power to connect is as strong as ever. So bring your best moves and let the music take over.

Book tickets here - https://www.pizzaexpresslive.com

Union Chapel - May 6

When gospel legends step into an iconic London venue, you know you’re in for something special. The Blind Boys of Alabama bring their six GRAMMY Awards and 70-year legacy to Islington for a night that’s far more than a concert. Their shows are celebrations so full of soulful harmonies, playful chemistry, and a setlist that moves from traditional gospel to inspired covers of Prince and Tom Waits. With collaborations spanning Bonnie Raitt to Willie Nelson and a fresh 2024 GRAMMY for Echoes Of The South, these icons show no signs of slowing down. In a world where music often fades into the background, The Blind Boys create moments that move, heal, unite, and remind you why live music matters.

Book tickets here - https://unionchapel.org.uk

World Heart Beat - May 8

What if you could witness jazz history in the making, not from the audience but right inside the creative process? Here’s your chance to experience Julian Joseph one of Britain’s most celebrated jazz pianists. He invites you in for a rare live recording session with his long running trio. Instead of a polished concert, you’ll witness the band’s fiery chemistry up close as they craft new music for their upcoming album. Every take will literally unfold before your eyes. Go behind the scenes and become part of the story as world-class jazz comes to life in real time. If you truly love music with depth, creativity and a touch of magic, make sure you book a ticket for this unique evening.

Book tickets here - https://worldheartbeat.org

BUSINESS SCENE

West Norwood Feast - The Market Powered by People

There’s a market in South London where the real magic isn’t just in the food or crafts, but in the people who make it happen. This Sunday, West Norwood Feast returns, and transforms SE27 into a vibrant, people-powered festival. Since 2011, this self-funded, volunteer-led market has become a grassroots business incubator, drawing over 5,000 locals each month to shop, eat, and connect.

This is so valuable because In a world where high streets are struggling and online shopping dominates, the Feast offers a fresh blueprint for local economies. With around 100 stalls spread across Artisans’ Market, Fresh and Green, and Food Fair, you’ll find everything from handmade crafts and urban mushrooms to Mauritian street food and vintage treasures. There’s also live music, kids’ activities, and community events. Collectively, they turn every Feast into a festival, not just a market.

While many local markets are fading, the Feast thrives by flipping the script. It’s powered by about 40 regular volunteers and countless occasional helpers. These locals do everything from booking stalls and logistics to curating entertainment and outreach. The result? A resilient, ever-evolving market that’s a launchpad for new traders and a hub for community spirit. The pattern is clear, when locals truly own their market, it becomes an engine of regeneration.

Looking ahead, West Norwood Feast is inspiring other neighbourhoods searching for ways to revive their high streets. With its unique blend of economic opportunity, creative energy, and social connection, this volunteer-powered market proves the future of local business is joyfully offline. If you want to experience the buzz for yourself, head to West Norwood this Sunday. Bring your shopping bag, your appetite, and see how a market can transform a neighbourhood, one stall at a time.

Find out more here - https://westnorwoodfeast.com

LINGUISTIC TAPESTRY - WORDS OF THE WEEK 

English Word:
Flummox
Pronunciation: /ˈflʌmək s/
Definition:  To bewilder, confuse, or perplex someone completely; to baffle.
Cultural Note: Flummox is a quirky, playful verb that emerged in the 19th-century. It’s often used in both casual conversation and literature to describe that moment when something leaves you utterly puzzled.

Sicilian Word:
Cummari
Pronunciation: /kuˈmaːri/
Definition: A term for a close female friend, godmother, or a woman who becomes like family through deep bonds of friendship or marriage.
Cultural Note: This is a uniquely Sicilian word that goes beyond friend or godmother. It represents a bond of solidarity, trust, and chosen family among women who support, celebrate, and stand by each other through life’s milestones and challenges.

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