Newport Street Gallery is the product of Damien Hirst’s dream to share his extensive art collection with the public.
Since it opened in 2015, Newport Street Gallery has been hosting a range of different exhibitions, from major artists like Jeff Koons to rising stars that Hirst is keen to spotlight. And the best part about it? It’s totally free to visit.
The gallery is also known for its fantastic architecture. It actually won the RIBA Sterling Prize for best new building in the UK in 2016. One look at the staircase and you’ll understand why…
Inside the gallery you’ll also find the famous Pharmacy 2 Café. While the gallery hosts work from Hirst’s personal collection, the café hosts a collection of Hirst’s personal work. The venue was designed entirely by Hirst, and you may recognise artworks from his Medicine Cabinets and butterfly Kaleidoscope painting series. The menu at Pharmacy 2 is filled with informal snacks and drinks, and its opening hours coincide with the gallery’s.
What’s currently showing at Newport Street Gallery?
‘Cradle of Magic’, which is showing until September 1, celebrates the twentieth-century duo Alan Davie and John Bellany, exploring the Celtic symbolism in both their works. Davie and Bellany are both visionary British painters: Davie was one of the first British artists to explore Abstract Expressionist forms and techniques, while Bellany was considered one of Britain’s foremost figurative painters. More info here.
(See also: awesome art exhibitions to see in 2019.)
Location: Newport Street Gallery, Newport Street, SE11 6AJ. Nearest station: Vauxhall or Lambeth North. See it on Google Maps.
Opening hours: 10am–6pm, Tuesday to Sunday (and Bank Holiday Mondays).
Prices: free entry to all exhibitions.
More information: on Newport Street Gallery’s website.