Our selection of the best exhibitions re-opening across London
There is good news this month for anyone who enjoys art (and who doesn’t?) as
many of London’s excellent galleries and museums have been given the go-ahead
to begin re-opening their doors to visitors.
With the devastating financial effects of the Coronavirus pandemic on the arts and
culture industry, there has never been a more important time to show your support
for the wonderful work carried out by British galleries and museums, who continue
to educate and inspire thousands of visitors from around the world each year.
Thankfully, there is no shortage of interesting and exciting exhibitions on offer
across London to entice you into a visit.
Here are just a few of the wonderful collections opening to visitors within the next
few weeks, selected by DDW…
Tate has re-opened all four of their British galleries as of 16th July, with the majority of their exhibitions picking up where they left off before the beginning of the lockdown period. For visitors to the Tate Modern, this means a chance to see the work of the legendary pop artist Andy Warhol. This incredible exhibition showcases some of Warhol’s most iconic pieces, including his work on Marilyn Monroe, Campbell’s soup cans and Coca-Cola. This is the first Warhol exhibition at the Tate Modern in almost twenty years, and includes some pieces which are being displayed for the first time since the 1980s – a must-see for any art enthusiast.
‘Andy Warhol’ will run until 15th November 2020. Timed tickets must be booked online before visiting, priced at £22 or free to Tate members.
The Victoria & Albert is set to re-open its doors from the 6th August, with a display honouring the centenary of the Royal Academy of Dance. The exhibition includes a variety of pieces, including films, beautiful costumes (including the ballet shoes worn by Darcey Bussell in her 2007 farewell performance), live dance and a host of other unique material. This display is not just an excellent insight into the rich history of this prestigious institution – it also demonstrates the great influence that the Royal Academy of Dance continues to have on British arts and culture to this day.
‘On Point: Royal Academy of Dance at 100’ will resume on 6th August 2020 and run until 23rd February 2021. Entry is free, but must be pre-booked online.
Somerset House began to welcome visitors for their ‘Mushrooms: The Art, Design and Future of Funghi’ exhibition on 16th July. This charming display incorporates the work of 40 leading artists, designers and musicians from around the world to explore the cultural legacy of one of nature’s biggest oddities. The collection provides a look at how mushrooms are being utilised in the 21st century in surprising new ways within science, fashion and even architecture, but also showcases a range of art pieces inspired by funghi, including from American artist Cy Twombly and renowned children’s author and artist Beatrix Potter.
‘Mushrooms: The Art, Design and Future of Funghi’ will run until 13th September 2020. Timed tickets must be booked online in advance. Entry is free but donations are appreciated.
Having re-opened on 13th July, the Barbican Centre invites you for a look at how the male experience has changed over the years, with their ‘Masculinities: Liberation Through Photography’ exhibition. Bringing together the work of national and international artists, photographers and filmmakers, this collection explores the portrayal of masculinity through the lens, encouraging discussions on patriarchy, power, identity, gender stereotypes and the idea of ‘toxic masculinity’. Thought-provoking and relevant, this is not to be missed.
‘Masculinities: Liberation Through Photography’ will run until 23rd August 2020. Ticket prices start at £15 and must be booked in advance.
The Royal Academy of Arts re-opened on 16th July, with the last chance for visitors to see their award-winning ‘Picasso and Paper’ exhibition, exploring the eighty-year career of the iconic artist. The collection features over 300 pieces, including a collage spanning almost five metres in width, and offers a unique insight into Picasso’s creative process and love of experimenting with print and sketches. A once-in-a-lifetime experience for any fan of Picasso’s work, visitors are invited to visit the RAA and become completely immersed in the world surrounding a defining father of modern art.
‘Picasso and Paper’ will run until 2nd August 2020. Tickets are £20 (free to Blue Light Card holders) but are currently sold out. Sign up to be notified via email when new tickets become available.