In terms of materials and form, these galleries offer so much. On an abstract and typographic level, so useful. This is a section of an altar frieze, from the Eye Temple at Tell Brak (N.E. Syria), dated 3300–3000BC. The Egyptian rooms take the tourist weight; these spaces are much quieter and amenable time spent drawing and thinking.

The best live jazz band I ever heard was at a packed out night in Brilliant Corners. I was happy to be squashed.

The finest artisan Italian ice cream in the heart of London.

Being an East London boy at heart I am partial to an occasional fix of café culture. Pellici's has been running since the start of the last century, to which me, my father and my father's fathers have all enjoyed its mix of tasty Italian/London grub and energetic atmosphere. If you're visiting, make sure you drop by, as it will provide a valuable, forever-depleting education into what East London is really all about.

This is my new local cafe. Healthy food, lovely people and great atmosphere. My favourites are the kyuri cleanse juice, the Avodon and the Joy's salad. Great place for meetings too.