The exhibitions you must see this May
Brighten up your month with our selection of the biggest art exhibitions across the UK.
Make this your best month yet by planning a culture trip to one (or more) of these exhibitions across the UK.
From a fashion blockbuster examining the cultural significance of the kimono at V&A Dundee to a major exhibition of historic women artists at Tate Britain, we've selected the biggest shows opening this month.
And with a National Art Pass, you'll get free or half-price entry at every venue in our round-up.
Where can I see the best art exhibitions across the UK with an Art Pass?
Expressionists: Kandinsky, Münter and The Blue Rider
Immerse yourself in the bold colours and daring designs of the The Blue Rider, a group of Expressionists in Munich who rallied together to revolutionise modern art in the 20th century. Discover how their friendships fuelled their creativity through over 130 works, including painting, sculpture, photography, performance and sound.
Henry Moore in Miniature
In the first exhibition of its kind, get up close with 60 of Henry Moore's miniature mock-ups of his celebrated sculptures, with nothing on display over 30cm in size. Moore was a celebrated English sculptor, known for his monumental abstract recreations of the human form, often working in bronze or stone.
Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk
From Jedi knights to rock stars, learn all about the cultural significance and history of the kimono, an iconic fashion garment with a lasting legacy. So if you want to know your samurai style from your geisha chic, don't miss this fabulous fashion blockbuster.
Turner: Art, Industry & Nostalgia
Witness a masterpiece by Turner, on loan from the National Gallery to celebrate their 200th anniversary, in this exhibition exploring the rise of industrialisation in Britain, with a particular focus on the North East's shipbuilding history. And if you're not in Newcastle, browse our full listings to find a National Treasures exhibition near you.
Laura Aldridge: LAWNMOWER
Explore a contemporary artist's bold installations across Jupiter Artland's indoor and outdoor spaces. Laura Aldridge blends the cosmic with the everyday to create playful, sensual works that are open to interpretation. Plus, don't miss the giant pink and orange snail fountain installed in the pond.
The Shape of Things: Still Life in Britain
Think still life paintings are boring? Have your preconceptions challenged in this group exhibition of over 20 modern and contemporary artists who reimagine the traditional genre to understand the human condition, highlighting its enduring significance today. Journey through art history, from 17th century vanitas paintings, which use symbolism to convey ideas of mortality and vanity, through to contemporary conceptual works of art.
Now You See Us: Women Artists in Britain 1520-1920
Discover women artists working across four centuries who led the way for future generations by challenging societal expectations on women who work and find success in the arts. Over 150 works will go on display, from Tudor times to the First World War, by artists including Artemisia Gentileschi, Angelica Kauffman and Gwen John.
Self Made: Derrick Santini
Famous faces go on display in this exhibition of photography by Derrick Santini, who has captured some of the biggest names in art, fashion, music and film, including Adele, Jarvis Cocker, Judi Dench, Idris Elba and One Direction. Explore the story of Scarborough local Santini's career as a photographer and come face-to-face with the icons who have shaped British culture over the last three decades.
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.