Today, we asked our friend and artist Layla Andrews who we recently collaborated with about her favourite spots in her new hometown: Margate
Layla is known for her figurative paintings that draw inspiration from a combination of the natural world, familial narratives, and miscellaneous second-hand objects. Her artworks often feature a diverse cast of recurring characters, ranging from human figures to crocodiles and crustaceans. She uses storytelling to explore identity and celebrate simple joys. Layla draws upon her own mixed-race heritage and working-class upbringing, shaped within a matriarchal household, to inform and enrich her practice. Her work is grounded in the belief that art, in whatever form it may take, should be inclusive and accessible to all.
You recently moved from London to Margate, what made you take the plunge?
I am quite new to the area so have a lot to discover still but absolutely loving being by the sea again. I was offered the amazing opportunity of joining Tracey Emins’ studios. I feel very fortunate to have moved into such a wonderful creative community of artists.
What’s your go-to spot to get inspired?
Either my studio or by the beach. My studio is my haven and one of my favourite places. And along the coast there are some great spots for sitting and pondering.
What does a perfect day in your neighbourhood look like?
A cinnamon bun and coffee at Oast, followed by a swim in the Tidal pool. Afternoon of painting. Finished by £5 fish and chips at Peters Fish Factory. Maybe an evening boogie at Fez.
Best coffee place?
Oast or Big Shot. Both are delicious every single time! A weekend highlight. Oast also bakes the most wonderful bread.
And for a romantic dinner/drinks?
Off-licence or The Shakespeare for a glass of vino. Both have gorgeous views of the sea which is beautiful for sundowners.
Sargasso for dinner, a lovely little wine bar with food nestled on Margate’s Harbour arms. It also has great views and delicious food and drinks!
Any hidden gems that you’d like to share with us?
International Food Centre for all your chilli condiment needs. We have gone a little over board- a quarter of our fridge space is chilli goods currently.
Or the Perfect Place to Grow which is a training kitchen and cafe that supports young people. It’s based at TKE studios, they have fantastic pop ups with different chefs.
Best place for a good sweat?
All along the seafront for running.
Good for the body and the brain!
And self-care?
Heackels community sauna based at Walpole Bay. It is very special. A brilliant enterprise free to all and run on volunteers and donations.
Any shops we absolutely can’t miss?
L’absurde is an immersive interiors gallery and shop, it has all kinds of treasure.
And lastly, what are your three favourite arkitaip-pieces?
Well that’s a hard question!
I obviously love our wearable piece of art we have just made! It has been so cool for me to work with Lea to bring my work to a different medium.
I love the Milou Smocked Tube Top (I have it in black but love all the colour variations!) It is so elegant.
And finally, the Nini Smocked Bustier Dress in red is on of my favourite pieces. Red linen dresses are classic. This is definitely on my wish list.
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