Want to improve your grammar, discuss favourite books or polish up on your Greek philosophy? Selfridges are hosting a magnificent literary event Words Words Words at the UltraLounge of their London flagship store.
From 12 January to 1 March, Selfridges are celebrating the power of the written word with a multitude of events from informative classes and talks to interactive workshops and book clubs. The ground floor Ultralounge has been transformed into a library packed with books and interactive media to get the lowdown on the day’s special topics, and comfy reading areas for you to explore their range of literary classics.
Selfridges has teamed up with the Idler Academy to entertain and educate you on the philosophy and literacy of some of their favourite 18th century subjects. With past contributions from artists and intellects such as Louis Theroux, Alex James, Damien Hirst, Alain De Botton, David Hockney and Emma Thompson, the Idler promises to sharpen your mind with some of the UK’s greatest academics.
Don’t know your Socrates from your Plato? Learn the basics of Greek philosophy with author and philosopher Dr Mark Vernon. Explore the ideas of philosophical schools and compare the politics of Ancient Athens to the present day. If that’s not enough, immerse yourself further with the Idler Academy’s Head of Latin, Susanna Hislop, who will be discussing the importance of the ancient language and teaching some Latin love poetry.
Celebrate National Story Telling week from 28 February until 5 March by joining renowned storytellers Rachel Rose Reid and Nell Phoenix in the Ultralounge. With performances that have featured worldwide from the Burning Man Festival to Sydney Opera house, their tantalising tales will have both children and adults hooked.
For more nimble-fingered bookworms there are some great craft workshops to get stuck into. Learn to master calligraphy with expert calligrapher Christopher Austin who will show you how to create decorative handwriting for personalised notes and greeting cards. However, if you’re more interested in what your handwriting says about yourself, join handwriting expert Julie Hinton on Saturday afternoons for a fascinating analysis of handwriting styles.
Other master classes include making your own notebook from scratch, and embroidery lessons so that you can personalise anything from cushions to upholstery.
For more information and workshop schedules visit Selfridges.com.