An experimental photography exhibition on memory, myths and nature
Memories in Mist is a solo exhibition by Arlau, curated by Margarita Makhanova, presented in The Chapel at St. Margaret’s House, London. The exhibition explores the fragile connections between memory, nature, religion, and myth through a series of black-and-white photographs made between 2019 and 2024.
Working under the name Arlau — an anagram of her given name, Laura — the artist uses film & Polaroid photography to explore how myths and memory interact with landscapes and cultures.
Within the chapel’s architecture, Memories in Mist transforms photography into a quiet meditation. Mist becomes both subject and metaphor for the memory itself. The recurring self-portrait motives document the fleeting presence: a body blending into its surroundings, becoming a part of the landscape and time.
Each image — a cross cutting the horizon, a figure fading into fog, a tree rising from shadow — holds the tension between tranquillity and anxiety, beauty and ephemerality. By bringing this work into a sacred space, the exhibition invites reflection on the place of the human within the vast, trembling continuum of nature and myth.
Curated by Margarita Makhanova, whose practice focuses on accessibility, playfulness, and set design simplicity. The exhibition is part of the Waltham Collective programme.
Memories in Mist runs December 5-7, 2025, with an opening reception on December 5, 18:00-20:30.
Artist(s)/Curator Social Media Handle:
Artist: @howtobenice
Curator: @margaliu, @walthamcollective
Venue: The Chapel at St Margaret’s House, 21 Old Ford Road — E2 9PL
Access: We are working to make our Grade II listed building more accessible, but it will take some time. Please note that entry to the Chapel is not step-free. If you require access support (including our portable ramps) and/or access to an accessible toilet, please contact us on 020 8980 2092 or email emily@stmargaretshouse.org.uk so we can arrange this for you.
Opening event: Friday 5th December, 6-8.30pm
Exhibition: Friday 5th - Sunday 7th December, 11am-5pm