Revisiting the ‘Square’ between London and Paris

Learning about cultural crossroads in the city by listening to trees When Napoleon III launched his massive regeneration of Paris, he was determined to give it an air of London. He was inspired by the squares of Bloomsbury in particular, as the huge plane trees reveal, standing tall in the Louise de Marillac square, on the old City border behind the Gare du Nord. Our workshop will listen and look at these unobtrusive but massive migrants from Franco-British history, tuning in to the deep currents of urban adaptation and persistence in the midst of one of the urban areas where the effects of contemporary European border policies are most visible and contested. Participants will be invited to draw, listen and reflect on the way the trees stand at this crossroads. No preparation is required. Drawing materials will be provided but you are also welcome to bring your own and come prepared to work outside. There is shelter nearby if there is light rain, and an alternative location can be used if outside working is not possible due to weather. This workshop is open to all ages and drawing abilities. This event is part of Being Human Festival, the UK’s national festival of the humanities, taking place 5-14 November 2026. Led by the School of Advanced Study, University of London, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. For further information please see beinghumanfestival.org