Things To Do Today In London: Monday 19 June 2017

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Things to do today is sponsored by London South East Colleges.

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CHATTY ROBOTS: Those in the know may have already used TfL's new chatbot, but those none-the-wiser needn't worry. This interactive session will spotlight chatbots and what they mean for the future, with a special focus on solutions for the public sector. Capita (City of London), free, book ahead,10am-2pm

ART AT THE BRIDGE: Constant change dictates our world. Talented local artists working across a range of media showcase their works, all around the theme of construction, destruction and reconstruction. Tower Bridge Exhibition Engine Rooms, £10, book ahead, 10am-5.30pm

PAPER ARCHITECTURE: You've seen London's architecture in the flesh — but how about the unbuilt stuff in paper format? Various schemes envisioned by architects, developers and entrepreneurs over the years come to life in this exhibition, but not in the way that was originally imagined. The Wall Gallery (Battersea), free, just turn up, 10am-6pm (until 30 June)

TAKE A SELFIE: The Saatchi Gallery charts the evolution of the selfie and the role of the mobile phone as an artistic medium for self-expression.  From old masters to present day, the exhibition celebrates the much derided 21st century phenomenon. Saatchi Gallery, free, just turn up, 10am-6pm


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From pottery to stained glass, clothes making to first aid and mindfulness meditation try your hand at a free workshop

If you’ve always wanted to give digital photography or Italian cookery a go, why not head to one of these free taster workshops to see if it’s for you?

On 1 July, Greenwich Adult Learning are hosting a Creative Arts Festival and Open House Event, with all sorts of sessions on offer. Whether you want to be the next Jamie Oliver, or think you’ve got an undiscovered talent for garment making, check out the range of workshops that will be happening here. It’s a first come, first served affair, so book ahead to make sure you don't miss out.


GEO-POLITICS: This panel discussion will cover the intricate relationship between water and global geo-politics — from blockades which have prevented the entry of food and water to cities, to territorial access issues. A great intro for non-specialists on the impact of water issues on policy and conflict zones. St Paul's Cathedral Crypt, free (£5 donation suggested), just turn up, 6.30pm-8pm

WRITING THE NORTH: How does the environment and natural landscape shape your writing? Poet and presenter Ian McMillan and author Marie-Elsa Bragg discuss how notions of nature, folklore and culture are intrinsically linked to text and influence how you write, in relation their own work. Waterstones Piccadilly, £3/£5, book ahead,7pm-8.30pm

Life drawing class

LIFE DRAWING: Put pen to paper a this tutored art class where all skill levels are welcome and all the materials you'll need to get your sketch on are provided. Each week features a different exotic theme complete with models, theatrical lighting, music and fun. Hackney Attic, £15, book ahead, 7pm-9pm

SOUL CLASSICS: Classically trained pianist and vocalist Kate T performs everything from classical to soul, jazz and R&B to pop. Her sweet vocal style and stripped back sound lends itself to her breezy set list including hits such as Isn't She Lovely and Thinking Out Loud. 100 Wardour Street,  just turn up, 8pm-10pm

Art review: saintly gold

Image courtesy of the Ministerio dei Beni e delle Attività Culturali e del Turismo, Gallerie Nazionale di Arte Antica di Roma, Palazzo Barberini e Galleria Corsini

The Virgin, saints, angels and Christ are all delicately painted surrounded by gold. These are a series of small panels by 14th century Italian painter Giovanni da Rimini. They are impressive works, even if the pre-Renaissance period wasn’t as groundbreaking as what was to follow. Giovanni da Rimini: A 14th century Masterpiece Unveiledat Room 1, The National Gallery. Until 8 October, free. ★★★☆☆

Comedy review: no words

Copyright Mat Ricardo

Fresh from conquering United States, the Kiwi mime artist formerly known The Boy With Tape On His Face arrives in the UK with his full-length stage show. The superlative clowning that helped him reach the semi-finals of America’s Got Talent are front and centre here and Tape Face cleverly breaks up his solo spots with surreal radio comedy and chucklesome episodes of audience interaction. There’s a never-ending stream of cheap and cheerful props including staple guns, oven gloves and chattering teeth before the unforgettable grand finale. Garrick Theatre, 2 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0HH. £25-£67.50. Until 23 July ★★★★☆

Art review: the beauty of Rodin

Image courtesy Bowman Sculpture

Rodin’s sculptures are simply breathtaking - The Kiss and The Thinker are two of his most important works and there are versions of both here, plus lots more from the master sculptor which draw you into their beautiful curves. Rodin: The Birth of Modern Sculpture at Bowman Sculpture, 6 Duke Street St. James’s, SW1Y 6BN. Until 27 July, free. ★★★★☆ (Monday-Friday)

Good cause of the day

5K RUN: Dress head to toe in pink and join thousands of other women uniting for one purpose: to defeat cancer. Open to walkers, joggers or runners, this 5k is suitable for all abilities. In aid of Cancer Research UK. Victoria Park, £14.99, book ahead, 24 June