“London offers treasures and inspiration not only in its museums. But to truly experience the city’s dynamic contemporary art scene requires insider knowledge—knowing where to go, when, and why. Each tour is a carefully curated journey full of discovery. Not only will you see incredible art, but you’ll be guided through it with the right balance of context, conversation, and time to reflect. You’ll forge your own impressions while being immersed in meaningful encounters with art. This is what Exceptional Art & Design and I, Jolanda Crettaz Chandler, aim to bring you on every tour.”
“Throughout the year—around once a month (outside of school holidays)—you’ll be invited to explore different corners of London through a thematic lens. Each visit has its own carefully curated vibe and takes place in a friendly, relaxed group. No prior knowledge is needed—just curiosity. My aim is to make everyone feel welcome and inspired. These visits aren’t just educational—they’re witty, thought-provoking, sometimes moving. They’re designed to spark connection and joy—a beautifully enriching way to spend half a day in the city.”
I am delighted to invite you on a bespoke Cambridge tour, beginning with a brief
orientation visit at Queen's College.
We will then visit Kettle’s Yard, where Jim and Helen Ede created a unique
environment combining twentieth-century art with furniture, textiles, ceramics and
natural objects — what Jim Ede described as “a space, an ambience, a home.” We
will explore the origins of Kettle’s Yard, gain insight into key works and objects, and
learn about the Edes’ close relationships with the artists represented.
Our tour will also include the Fitzwilliam Museum, the principal art and antiquities
museum of the University of Cambridge. Its world-renowned collections span centuries
and civilisations, from classical antiquities to master paintings and decorative arts.
Time and availability permitting, we may also glimpse the temporary exhibition
showing works by Frank Bowling.
The tour will conclude with David Parr House, a Grade II* listed terraced home
preserved as it was in 1947. We will explore the life and techniques of this
exceptionally talented decorative painter, who worked for firms undertaking major
commissions for leading figures of the Arts and Crafts movement, before transforming
his own modest home single-handedly. Parr painstakingly painted intricate patterns
and gilded surfaces throughout the house, inspired by the ideals of William Morris,
creating a deeply personal and extraordinary interior.
The Fitzwilliam Museum and Kettle’s Yard are both part of the University of
Cambridge Museums consortium, while David Parr House forms an essential part of
Cambridge’s wider and extraordinary cultural landscape. The visit to Queen's college
(a short, self-led orientation) will provide a striking example of life at a Cambridge
college.
Contact: cjolanda@icloud.com for full programme
ART TRIP TO PARIS
November 2025
ART TRIP TO VENICE
June 2024
Want to experience London’s contemporary art scene with a warm, knowledgeable guide by your side?
To join the mailing list, email info@exceptionalart.co.uk with a short message like: Please keep me updated with art tours.”
Details for a one-off tour:
2026 Art Tour Dates:
Spring season:
1) Thursday 29 January
2) Friday 27 February
3) Wednesday 18 March (Cambridge day trip: supplement of £80)
Summer season:
4) Thursday 23 and/or* Friday 24 April
5) Friday 8 May and Friday 22 May: (both dates are offered)
6) Friday 12 June
Autumn season:
7) Thursday 17 and/or* Friday 19 September
8) Thursday 15 and/or* Friday 16 October
9) Thursday 12 and/or* Friday 13 November
*On tours with two dates (and/or*), the focus is on the Friday, but if there are too many participants, I may be able to organise a second tour, most likely on the Thursday)
Tours are:
More information about the tours:
• When: Typically events are kicked-off on Fridays, starting at 11:00 am and finishing around 12:45 pm. But as demand comes in, other dates are suggested, and additional tours are offered generally on Thrusdays, Fridays and/or Saturdays.
• Where: Meeting points will be shared well in advance for each event.
• After the Tour: Whenever possible, I aim to arrange optional group lunches or coffee breaks nearby (subject to venue availability).
Please contact me at info@exceptionalart.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Groups tend to be 10-12 participants. Very rarely it is more (max 20)
I tend to do an introduction, then we tour highlights for 45 - 55 minutes or so. Then there is the opportunity to ask questions and visit further. Sometimes guest curators and/or artist(s) may be present. Total duration of tour: approx. 1 hour and a half or a bit more.
My curations provide breadth and depth on themes carefully prepared beforehand. This means you save time and see the most important things. I also will take you to places you won't have explored for yourself and my clients tell me I make the art world accessible and free of intimidation.
"Jolanda's expertise and enthusiasm make contemporary art approachable and engaging for everyone in a relaxed and personal atmosphere."
"You are the best-kept secret in London!"
“Jolanda has a great knowledge and loves sharing it. She unlocks the secrets of modern and contemporary art.”
Membership includes a minimum of 8 events. In 2024, I added additional events, so members had 12 in the end! Every year is different, and if I have to cancel a date, or you can't make a rescheduled date, I will reimburse you pro rata.