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The Venerable Bogoda Seelawimala Nayaka Thera The London Buddhist Vihara was the first to be founded outside Asia Tucked away unobtrusively at the Turnham Green end of The Avenue, it is easy to miss the London Buddhist Vihara (temple-cummonastery). The doors are usually closed, but don’t mistake that for a lack of openness. Nothing could be further from the truth, as anyone who has attended courses there or come across the resident monks will know well. ‘Everyone is welcome. We are open daily to visitors (8.30-11am and 2-8pm) and one of us is usually present to talk,’ explains The Venerable Bogoda Seelawimala Nayaka Thera, who has been the Head Monk since 2007. ‘Also, our study classes are always popular and we try to play an active role in the community.’ The monks take a stall at the Bedford Park Festival and this year, for the first time, the Vihara is hosting an event (Roger McGough on 14 September) at the Chiswick Book Festival. Founded in 1926 by Anagarika Dharmapala (1864-1933), a global missionary who preached the Dharma in Asia, Europe and North America, the Vihara was the first to be established outside Asia. Originally located in Ealing, it then moved […]

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Auriol Herford (second right) A creative oasis for all ages and abilities The Autumn term is about to begin at Kite Studios and with it an exciting array of bespoke and group classes for everyone from 18 month-old toddlers and home-schoolers to adult beginners and artist-makers. Opened in 2005, the buzzing warren of studios is the brainchild of Auriol Herford. ‘We teach pottery, drawing, painting, sewing, textiles and printmaking and our tutors are all fully trained, practising artists (including Clover Lee from The Great Pottery Throwdown). ‘The programme is arranged for maximum flexibility. All courses are bookable online, they are held during the day and in the evenings and students can choose to take a one-off “taster” session before signing up.’ Auriol’s artistic philosophy is based on learning to draw. ‘Whether from observation, the imagination or simply mark-making, I believe that drawing is the foundation of creativity,’ she explains. ‘That applies to all media – and here we work in everything from mud to oils and use everything from branches to brushes!’ Auriol and her team are passionate about engaging with children. ‘We want them to think for themselves and enjoy the freedom to experiment. If a student doesn’t naturally […]

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