11 Must-See Exhibitions To Visit In London This Spring!
As the flowers bloom and the city comes to life, London's art scene is buzzing with excitement for the upcoming spring exhibitions. From iconic classics to cutting-edge contemporary works, there's something for every art enthusiast to explore and enjoy.
Frank Auerbach: The Charcoal Heads
Where: The Courtauld
When: Until 27 May
Journey back in time to post-Second World War London with Frank Auerbach's remarkable charcoal portrait heads. Discover the artist's meticulous process as he brings these captivating figures to life through months of painstaking work and dedication.
Sargent and Fashion: A Painter's Perspective
Where: Tate Britain
When: Until 7 July
Explore the dynamic relationship between portrait painter John Singer Sargent and his fashionable clientele at this captivating exhibition. With over 60 paintings and period dresses on display, this show offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of art and fashion in the late 19th century.
Barbara Kruger: Power, Gender, and Consumerism
Where: Serpentine
When: Until 17 March
Step into the thought-provoking world of American artist Barbara Kruger as she challenges societal norms and conventions through her iconic artworks. From bold imagery to powerful text, this exhibition invites visitors to question the status quo and explore the complexities of modern life.
Fragile Beauty: A Glimpse into Sir Elton John and David Furnish's Private Collection
Where: V&A Museum
When: 18 May - 5 January 2025
Step into the world of fashion, fame, and photography as the V&A Museum unveils a rare glimpse into the private collection of Sir Elton John and David Furnish. Featuring 300 prints by 140 modern and contemporary photographers, this exhibition promises to be a dazzling celebration of artistic passion and expertise.
Bert Hardy: A Lens on History
Where: The Photographers' Gallery
When: Until 2 June
Embark on a visual journey through mid-century Britain with the evocative photography of Bert Hardy. From the Blitz to social documentary, this retrospective offers a poignant reflection on the triumphs and tribulations of post-war society.
Entangled Pasts: Art and Colonialism
Where: Royal Academy
When: Until 28 April
Dive into the complex history of empire, enslavement, and resistance with this thought-provoking exhibition at the Royal Academy. Featuring works by contemporary artists alongside historical masterpieces, this show sparks conversations about identity, migration, and belonging.
Zineb Sedira: Dreams Have No Titles
Where: Whitechapel Gallery
When: Until 12 May
Immerse yourself in the multimedia world of Zineb Sedira as she blurs the lines between reality and fiction in this captivating installation. From film sets to personal narratives, each room offers a unique perspective on the artist's life and work.
The Last Caravaggio: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Where: National Gallery
When: 18 April - 21 July
Don't miss the chance to see two of Caravaggio's masterpieces side by side at the National Gallery. With works lent from the Intesa Sanpaolo Collection and the gallery's own collection, this exhibition sheds light on the artist's final years and his enduring legacy.
The Biba Story: Fashion, Fame, and Fabulousness
Where: Fashion & Textile Museum
When: 22 March - 8 September
Step back in time to the swinging '60s and '70s with this nostalgic look at Barbara Hulanicki's iconic fashion empire. From the first Biba boutique to the legendary Big Biba department store, this exhibition celebrates the creativity and innovation of a true London fashion icon.
Tropical Modernism: Architecture and Independence
Where: V&A Museum
When: 2 March - 22 September
Discover the minimalist beauty of Tropical Modernism with this insightful exhibition at the V&A Museum. Led by British architects Maxwell Fry and Jane Drew, this architectural style became a symbol of progress and modernity in post-independence West Africa and India.
Angelica Kauffman: A Life in Art
Where: Royal Academy
When: 1 March - 30 June
Experience the extraordinary journey of 18th-century artist Angelica Kauffman, from her rise to fame in London to her illustrious career in Rome. Delve into her captivating portraits and mythological masterpieces as the Royal Academy pays homage to one of Europe's most influential women in art.
Quentin Blake: The QB Papers (reel being filmed)
Where: Arc Gallery, Cromwell Place
When: April 10 - April 28
This is a unique opportunity to view Sir Quentin Blake’s original artwork from five titles in ‘The QB Papers’ series: ‘Feet in the Water’, ‘The Alternative Sports Olympics’, ‘Scenes at Twilight’, ‘Chance Encounters’, and ‘Wildlife Artist of the Year’. Created between 2017 – 2019, the work explores different subjects and techniques which interest the artist. They vary in approach and tone, and between reality and fantasy.
With such a diverse array of exhibitions on offer, there's never been a better time to explore London's vibrant art scene. So mark your calendars, book your tickets, and get ready for a spring filled with creativity, inspiration, and discovery!
