The Coolest Art Bars Around The Globe (I) . Scketch, London

There is no denying it, the art world and drinking go hand in hand. Artists and writers have always been drawn to bars, which is often a creative space.

So, it’s only natural that some bars would choose to feature art, as part of their very concept. It is a trend, especially in big or up and coming cities with a significant art scene. You can find great contemporary artworks, carefully chosen, shown in hip bars from London, New York or Paris, as well as from cities like Cluj-Napoca, Belgrade or Copenhagen.

Which seems extremely cool, as what better place to really enjoy an artwork and take it in, than a place where, by definition, you go to relax and free your mind of daily worries.

So, let’s take a look at the 10 most impressive art bars that we found so far. Today, the first one that caught our eye:

Sketch, London. The sketch is an iconic artist-conceived food and drink space in London’s Mayfair. It’s been a sensation from the beginning. Opened in 2003, Sketch was created by the famous restaurateur Mourad Mazouz and the legendary French chef Pierre Gagnaire, in a stunning 18th-century venue in Conduit Street, Mayfair.

Eat, music, drink, and art is the mix the owners hoped to achieve and so they did. We were practically mesmerized when we first visited the place, at a friend’s recommendation. “You must see that place”, he said. And YOU must.

It was under some roof several hip bars and restaurants, each with its very own personality. My personal favorite is The Glade, a fabulous jungle-themed bar and dining room, designed by artists Carolyn Quartermaine and Didier Mahieu.

But what I loved most of all, what makes it so special, is the artistic vibe that you can feel everywhere. Sketch London is fueled by art. Not only by the permanent exhibit of David Shrigley artwork (around 300 artworks), but there’s art everywhere. In the walls, the floors, the carpet, the bathrooms, the ceilings, everywhere you look.

Sketch also hosts a series of art events, featuring contemporary art. Until November 2019 you can check out “A second life”, the project of the design and manufacturer consultant Matter of Stuff for London Design Festival.

Next week: a legendary art bar from the French Riviera.

More info: sketch.london