Bankside Hotel are delighted to welcome British painter Lyra Morgan as our Autumn Artist-in-Residence. For her residency, Be Still in Flow, Lyra transforms the Art Yard Makers Studio into a vibrant and meditative space, celebrating the beauty, energy and timeless cycle of water.
Her work explores water as both subject and philosophy — connecting us through its ever-changing forms. Each piece is created through a process of reflection and immersion, with colour, texture and movement translating her contemplations into paint.
In her signature process-led style, Lyra brings the Thames directly into her practice. Every artwork created during the residency will contain at least one drop of river water: “I see the Thames as a living being, a flowing thread that connects us all to each other and to nature.”
Drawing inspiration from Impressionism, Lyra’s paintings balance stillness and motion in the same breath. Visitors can expect an immersive studio experience with soundscapes of water, river-inspired music, and historic Thames imagery from artists such as Turner and Monet.
Thames Festival Programme
As part of this year’s Thames Festival, Lyra opens her studio to the public throughout September, inviting visitors to step inside her workspace and experience her creative process. A special drinks reception will take place on Thursday 18 September, 6–8pm, offering guests the chance to meet Lyra and hear more about her work.
End of Residency Showcase
Lyra’s residency will conclude with a Public Viewing on Thursday 2 October, 6–8pm, presenting the full body of work created during her time at Bankside Hotel.
Visit Lyra in the Art Yard Makers Studio from Follow her journey via @Contemporary_Collective on Instagram.
About the Artist
Lyra Morgan’s paintings evoke the sense of calm she experiences during their creation, transforming the spaces they inhabit. Water is a constant thread in her practice — a substance that is both formless and ever-shifting, yet deeply grounding.
Her work is influenced by the Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi, embracing the beauty of imperfection and serendipity. Using layers of colour, mixed media, and a distinctive non-brush technique, Lyra allows each composition to evolve organically, balancing instinct and flow.
Open House
Art Yard Maker’s Studio has an open-house policy, so if you‘re visiting our neighbourhood’s major art galleries, Southbank Centre, Tate Modern or Hayward Gallery why not stop by to see an artist at work.