Virginie Dhouibi

This is Apollo and Daphne by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, which I’ve seen in person at the Villa Borghese in Rome.  I am constantly amazed and in awe of how the artist creates sculptures with such energy and movement out of marble.  The material should be so solid, but he carves the wind into her hair, which take such skill.

Akram Kahn is one of the most magical and innovative choreographers I have ever had the privilege of seeing.  For me personally it is so refreshing see classical Indian Kathak dancing brought into contemporary dance and his company creates such iconic retellings of classical dance and ballet.

I lived in London for many years and Somerset House was somewhere I visit time and again because they have become a cultural hub, turning their spaces into galleries to showcase art, hold large art fairs, and curate really innovative exhibitions.  They are a driving force on the London art scene.

I am French so cakes and particularly patisseries are part of my culture and my soul.  I love to bake cakes and I also love to go to independent bakers to try their confections.  I travel a lot so I love to eat local cakes to get a flavour of their cuisine.

Anish Kapoor is one of my favourite artists and there are two series of his works I really love, the Illusions and the mirrors.  I think for me it’s their extra large scale, especially the mirrors, that are sometimes so big you don’t notice them, and they blend seamlessly into the surroundings, making a gentle impact.

I recently travelled to the Galapagos islands on my own, as am an avid traveller and intrepid adventurer.  The islands beauty and wild life struck me and I was overawed with the place.  Every time you turned a corner there was something magical to behold.