The Art of Illusion: The Theatrical World of Oliver Messel
Sat 13 Jun– Sun 1 Nov: 11am–3.30pm. Celebrating the life of Britain’s leading stage designer of the mid-20th Century. See the newly opened Oriel Room with costumes designed by students at Wimbledon College of Arts (UAL) and inspired by Oliver Messel.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
The Art of Illusion: The Theatrical World of Oliver Messel. An exhibition delving into the work of Oliver Messel opens at Nymans on Saturday 13 June and is open daily until Sunday 1 Nov between 11am–3.30pm. Celebrating the life of Britain’s leading stage designer of the mid-20th Century, the displays will explore the designer’s lifetime of creative output, influenced by his childhood spent at Nymans. Covering his work in interior design, film and theatre, some of the objects on display include a newly acquired portrait of his sister Anne, the Countess of Rosse. Visitors can also experience a new display in the Oriel Room, featuring costumes created by MA Costume students from Wimbledon College of Arts, part of University of the Arts London (UAL). Inspired by Oliver Messel’s inventive approach, the students have created imaginative ensembles using reclaimed textiles, digital embroidery, crochet and laser cutting. Please note that the exhibition is upstairs in the Gallery.
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Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesUpcoming events
A Celebration of Flowers
Sat 5 Sept - Sun 13 Sept: 11am - 4pm. Step inside the house to see stunning floral displays inspired by the exhibition 'The Art of Illusion: The Theatrical World of Oliver Messel'. Open every day with last admission at 3.30pm.
Dream House Tours
Join a tour around the outside of the house at Nymans, looking at the building and seeing how it developed since 1890 when it was purchased by Ludwig Messel.
Sneak Peek Tours
Take a behind the scenes look inside the house on a sneak peek tour. Tours last approximately 30 minutes and are included in general admission. Please go to Visitor Welcome to collect a ticket. (Limited availability).
Heritage Open Days -house & garden open with Messel family tours
Free opening on Fri 11 & Sat 12 Sept with special tours by members of the Messel family around the rarely accessible family flat. Tours at 11am, 1pm & 3pm. Free. Tickets are allocated on arrival with no advance booking.