London's blockbuster exhibitions open now
Planning a cultural day out in the capital? From the Fashion and Textile Museum's celebration of Biba to National Gallery's mini Caravaggio blockbuster, don't miss the biggest exhibitions in London open now.
London is home to one of the most vibrant art scenes in the world. Whether you're interested in major international artists, world history or the bright new stars of visual art, there's something on offer for every cultural appetite.
From visitor favourites such as Tate and the V&A to neighbourhood gems like Dulwich Picture Gallery, a rolling programme of must-see exhibitions runs throughout the year.
Here's our guide to some of the biggest blockbuster exhibitions in London right now.
Don't forget to pack your National Art Pass to get reduced-price entry at every venue, and check out our full listings for more upcoming exhibitions.
Discover some of the best exhibitions in London with an Art Pass
The Biba Story, 1964-1975
Did you know there was a Big Biba? Kind of like a Swinging Sixties version of Big Topshop, this Art Deco shopping utopia filled seven floors with the iconic brand's designs, a decadent restaurant where rock royalty hung out, and a roof garden with real life penguins and flamingos. And if that doesn't make you want to run to this exhibition celebrating everything to do with the glamorous lifestyle brand that dominated the fashion landscape in the Sixties and Seventies, then we don't know what will.
Ranjit Singh: Sikh, Warrior, King
Glittering jewels, intricate paintings and majestic armoury – marvel at all that and more in this fascinating deep dive into the life and enduring impact of Ranjit Singh, whose Sikh empire was hailed a Golden Age and left an indelible mark on the Punjab. Learn about this momentous period in history and the rich culture that flourished in this major exhibition dedicated to the leader.
The Last Caravaggio
If you've been watching Netflix's latest hit Ripley, then maybe you've caught the Caravaggio bug. Like the show's protagonist himself, we can't resist the Baroque master's intense lighting and dramatic scenes, and now you can see his last painting before his mysterious death, which is brimming with guilt and violence. His final masterpiece returns to London for the first time in 20 years, and is displayed alongside a significant letter detailing its creation by the artist and his powerful painting, Salome with the Head of John the Baptist.
Francesca Woodman and Julia Margaret Cameron: Portraits to Dream In
Get a fresh perspective on two iconic women photographers who, despite working a century apart, both redefined the genre of portraiture beyond the mode of representation, using their unique visions to create new ways of seeing and telling stories through images. Once you've finished, why not check out the National Portrait Gallery's major painting exhibition, The Time is Always Now: Artists Reframe the Black Figure.
Art Without Heroes: Mingei
Learn about a Japanese folk-craft that exploded in the 1920s in the largest-ever UK exhibition dedicated to Mingei. Expect a wide range of crafts including, ceramics, woodwork, textiles, toys, archival film and more, to get a deep insight into the historical moment when it boomed and its enduring legacy today.
Polly Braden: Leaving Ukraine
Through photography and film, witness an intimate portrayal of displaced Ukrainian women and children whose lives are now scattered across Europe following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This powerful exhibition offers a personal insight into forging a new life and the myriad struggles that those experiencing displacement face.
Sargent and Fashion
Get a fresh perspective on leading portrait painter John Singer Sargent, who used fashion as a tool to convey his sitters' identities and personalities. Marvel at glamorous period dresses that chart the fashion trends of the time that are on display next to the sumptuous paintings they appear in.
Acts of Resistance: Photography, Feminisms and the Art of Protest
Powerful work by contemporary feminist photographers from 2010 to the present day go on display in this collaborative exhibition between South London Gallery and the V&A, which opened on International Women's Day 2024. The global manifestations of fourth wave feminism, significant political events and the internet's role in impacting this are all explored.
Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind
Art icon and activist Yoko Ono's successful career over seven decades is examined in this major retrospective, showcasing her dedication to world peace and environmental work through her artworks, films and music. Expect key moments, including her influential London years with John Lennon.
Soulscapes
Discover how artists from the African diaspora are reimagining landscape art to explore our connection with the world around us and reflect on themes of belonging, memory, joy and transformation. See works by Hurvin Anderson, Isaac Julien, Alberta Whittle and other leading artists redefining the genre.
The more you see, the more we do.
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