My Bristol favourites: Alexander Korzer-Robinson

Alexander Korzer-Robinson is one of the 70 artists appearing at the inaugural The Other Art Fair this weekend at the Arnolfini. Alexander specialises in book sculptures, in which he works through a book page-by-page, cutting around some of the illustrations while removing others, building a unique composition using only the images found in the book.

Here are Alexander’s top-five Bristol favourites:

Mud Dock

“Situated on the dock with a peaceful and authentic view of the city, Mud Dock is one of favourite places to bring out of town visitors to eat. This is the first restaurant that I have known to be connected to a mountain bike shop. It is rare to spend more time looking up at turn of the century bikes rather than your food. Mud Dock has an ever-changing menu that brings in cuisine from around the world but we come early on a weekend morning for the delicious breakfast. The staff are always friendly and helpful and the restaurant, with the wooden floors and simple table settings, has a laid back and comfortable feel to it. A nice way to start a day.”

Clifton Observatory

“You can enjoy the most amazing views of Bristol from above the Clifton Suspension Bridge in one of only two camera obscuras that are still open to the British public. Clifton Observatory was built in the 1800s as a tobacco snuff mill. It’s a little tourist attraction that allows you to see the surrounding area of Clifton through the old style camera obscura which projects the real-time image of the area it is directed at. A short walk away brings you to the bridge, which on the Leigh Woods side has a new visitors centre that has a section with a description of the history of Brunel’s magnificent construction. There is something very rewarding about sitting on the grass back on the Clifton side and having the chance to take in all of the breathtaking views of the city below.”

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

“This beautiful Edwardian Baroque museum which is situated next to the Wills Building of the University of Bristol boasts a world class selection of art, archaeology and natural history. The building itself is absolutely stunning, and there are some interesting art collections and maps of the old city. Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is one of the few museums to have been awarded designated status by the government – the mark of an outstanding museum. I really enjoy moving around the museum at a leisurely pace, slowly taking in the exhibits and getting a feel of what life must have been like for Bristol residents in time gone by.”

The Christmas Steps

“There is a narrow, steep incline to the top of the Christmas Steps, with independent shops left and right on what is one of the oldest streets in Bristol, dating back to 1669. The businesses are a random mix of quirky shops and the cafe at the bottom is a must-stop location. I can safely say this is one of my favourite areas of Bristol.”

Bishopston Books

“Tucked away on Gloucester Road, stuffed with books from floor to ceiling that are completely different and hard to find – this is the place that I can get lost in for hours. Looking for an out of print book or publication? Bishopston Books is your place. I always find something special that inspires a new book sculpture. This north Bristol shop has evolved over the years from a neighbourhood establishment into one which has more than 25,000 satisfied customers worldwide.”