Lucy Loves: February
Things you’ll actually want to buy, see & do this month
Hi everyone,
I hope you are all well. I’m breathing a sigh of relief that January is now behind us. All I can say is thank goodness for The Traitors! And although I’m not February’s biggest fan, there’s plenty to look forward to this month, from a must-see exhibition at the Courtauld to a new Martin Parr documentary. With Valentine’s Day looming, I’ve also rounded up some of my favourite gifts for her.
In case you missed it, my TEFAF interview with the contemporary African art collector Tunji Akintokun is now live, as is my round-up of art, design & travel highlights to look forward to in 2025. Also live is my recently published review of a secluded hideaway down south. It’s one to book.
As always thank you for reading The Istanbulist! It would be a huge help if you could like (hit the ❤️ button in the banner above)/restack/share or recommend my publication as it makes it more visible on the ever busier Substack platform. Even better, would be to consider becoming a paid subscriber.
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Love Lucy Xx
A documentary worth watching
For the past six decades, British photographer Martin Parr has captured British kitsch, society and consumer culture like no other. From his saturated images of the working class to his political portraits of a broken Britain, Parr has established himself as one of the most fearless documentary photographers of his generation.
Compiled from exclusive archival footage and new interviews, Lee Shulman’s documentary I AM MARTIN PARR (in UK cinemas from 21 February) tells the story of an extraordinary man who has revolutionised contemporary photography through his daring use of colour, framing and unorthodox subject matter. Pass the popcorn.
Pretty, comfy, sexy lingerie
Founded in 2008 by Ela Onur, the Turkish lingerie label ELSE has made its name with its pretty, wearable lingerie styles, from lacy bodysuits to crochet crop tops. Made by female artisans in the brand’s Istanbul atelier and sold globally (including in the brand’s flagship Los Angeles boutique), it effortlessly blends luxury, comfort and style. There’s currently a Valentine’s Day sale on all things lacy and red. Hop to it.
Cakes, cafes and clowns
Opening on Valentine’s Day at the Courtauld Gallery in London is Goya to Impressionism. Masterpieces from the Oskar Reinhart Collection (14 February — 26 May). The first ever exhibition of the Oskar Reinhart Collection to be staged outside of Switzerland will feature masterpieces by Goya, Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso and Cezanne, among others. Of all the works going on display, I’m most looking forward to seeing Manet’s Au Cafe (1878), Wayne Thiebaud’s Cakes (above) from 1963 and Toulouse-Lautrec’s striking representation of the female performer The Clown Cha-U-Kao.
A book to order
The explosive tales of love and loss behind modern art’s greatest couples are thrust centre stage in this enjoyable book by Kate Bryan, Head of Collections for Soho House. Featuring 34 artist couples from 1880 to the present day, The Art of Love reveals how romantic relationships — whether fleeting, obsessional, tumultuous or life-long — can shape creativity, across painting, sculpture, photography and design.
Art to see now
The Royal Academy’s Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism (until 21 April) has had mixed reviews but its vibrant display of 130 works from the 1910s to the 1970s will uplift even the dreariest of winter days. Look out for Lasar Segall’s hot jungle landscape Boy with Geckos (1924) and Tarsila do Amaral’s highly stylised painting of a lake (above) from 1928, the year Brazilian Modern Art came of age. Just love.
Substacks to subscribe to
- for Europe’s most stylish stays
A week in Paris for another expat’s musings on life abroad
- for destination guides and hot hotels
Last-minute staycation ideas
I find February even more of a struggle than January, so I’m busy plotting a last-minute staycation to banish those winter blues. As we’re currently in Istanbul, I’m deliberating between the Six Senses Kocatas Mansions where we spent Valentine’s Day last year with tiny in tow and a quick flip down south to the D-Resort Gocek as it’s one of the few hotels along the Turquoise Coast that remains open all year round.
If I were in the UK, I’d book into my all-time favourite pub The Beckford Arms because it’s cosy, comfy and not break-the-bank expensive. I’d love to know your favourite spots for a night or two away.
Gifts she’ll actually want
Not long after moving to Istanbul I fell head over heels for Anatolian Craft, a female-led Turkish accessories brand celebrating exquisite craftsmanship, notably embroidery. Their range of shoes, bags and home products, which are all handmade by local artisans, feature dramatic patterns and vibrant colours. I’ll be stepping out this Valentine’s Day in my heart-embroidered mules (below). Swoon.
Another Turkish favourite is Bee Goddess, a jewellery brand founded by Ece Sirin. Inspired by the power of symbols, Sirin creates pieces that take the wearer on a spiritual journey towards a more empowered, enlightened and joyful life. I’m currently eyeing up their range of letter necklaces. Hint hint Olly!
If you need more Valentine’s gift inspiration, Christie’s has rounded-up a fabulous selection of goodies, from heart-shaped handbags to flirty fine art.
And finally…follow me on Instagram for more art, design and travel inspiration in London, Istanbul & beyond.