This was honestly one of those exhibitions where, from start to finish, you could just tell it was for you. From the application stage all the way to the end of the show, everything about it felt right. It is one of those experiences that reinforces an important lesson I will talk about more in my “What Fits” section: the idea that you should always go where you are appreciated, where your value is seen and felt. Not just in art, but in life as a whole.
With Cheeky London: Launchpad 25, that feeling was clear from day one. Every single artist featured, every interaction, and every detail of the process just worked. The curators were Korean-based, and the show leaned strongly into the Asian market, especially around the superflat genre. It had that zany, colourful, contemporary energy that instantly makes you feel at home. It was full of life, full of character, and every piece in the show seemed to bounce off the next.
For me, it was one of the first times I walked into an exhibition and felt completely comfortable being myself. There was no need to pretend, no sense of trying to fit in or tone anything down. The atmosphere was easy-going, everyone there was kind and open, and it all felt natural.
The exhibition took place at Trade Star Studios in Islington as part of the London Design Festival, and it was their first show, which made it even more impressive. The whole thing was spread over three different floors, and each space had its own flow and energy. Nothing felt cramped or overwhelming. It had that cool, loft-style, warehouse vibe, and it fit perfectly with the kind of work being shown.
It was such a great experience from start to finish. I connected with so many amazing artists, had good conversations, and genuinely just enjoyed myself. It was full of colour, energy, and warmth, everything you could want in an exhibition.
For anyone who wants to find out more about them, I have attached Cheeky London’s website and Instagram, especially if you are looking into that superflat, contemporary, or cross-cultural art scene. They are a great team, very transparent, and I cannot wait to see what they do for Launchpad 26 and beyond.
This was one of those exhibitions that reminded me why I do this: to connect, to express, and to find those spaces where the art, the people, and the energy all align perfectly.