Forget AI slop – how about some real art made by real humans? One of the best things about London is that you can always find something fabulous to do just around the corner, and there’s certainly no shortage of art exhibitions to visit on any given weekend.
Some truly wonderful artists are showing their work in London this September, so have a read through our list below and book yourself a couple of gallery visits this month.
This major M.C Escher exhibition captivated over 20 million visitors worldwide before it finally landed at Somerset House in London earlier this year. It’s one of the best exhibitions currently in the city, which is why it’s at the top of our list. Oh, and it’s closing on September 6, so we want to make sure you visit while you still can!
You’ll get to see over 150 original works by Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher up close, the gallery taking you on a journey through impossible perspectives and worlds that defy reality. Prepare to delve into optical illusions and fascinating visual systems through incredible combinations of geometry, mathematics, and art.
You may know Jack White as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the White Stripes, but now you’ll get to see another side of him, because he’s brought his debut visual art show to London. ‘THESE THOUGHTS MAY DISAPPEAR’ opened in May at Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery, showing a range of his sculptures, installations, furniture designs, interactive works, and more.
He largely works with reclaimed materials, hardware store finds, and industrial remnants, making for a fascinating selection of pieces. Make some time to visit before the exhibition closes on September 13.
Few artists have been as legendary and inspiring as Frida Kahlo, so you won’t want to miss this exhibition exploring her incredible life, legacy, and work through more than 130 items. What you’ll get to see at ‘Frida: The Making of an Icon’ includes some of her most recognisable works, as well as lesser-known gems, personal documents, photographs, and memorabilia.
Fun fact: this was one of the most anticipated exhibitions to open in London this year, quickly becoming the highest pre-selling show in the history of the Tate Modern, with more than 35,000 tickets sold.
A breathtaking new exhibition is on its way to Somerset House, opening on September 16 and running until October 6. British floral designers are recreating Princess Diana’s most defining looks out of thousands of fresh flowers, showcasing them in this spectacular exhibition.
‘Fleurs de Villes DIANA’ is not just a fresh flower exhibition; it honours the life and legacy of Diana, Princess of Wales, by bringing together floral artistry and history. Plus, a portion of ticket proceeds directly supports The Diana Award, helping to fund programmes that empower young people to create positive change.
Collection, summer 1938. Fabric designed by Salvador Dali (c) Victoria and Albert Museum,
London. (l); (Photo by Horst P. Horst/Conde Nast via Getty Images) (r)
Speaking of breathtaking fashion, you’ll definitely want to make some time to visit this exhibition of Elsa Schiaparelli’s fabulous work before it closes in November. Originally a painter and sculptor, she brought her artistic spirit to the world of fashion, becoming known for her inventive wearable art.
‘Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art’ at the V&A is the first-ever exhibition in the UK dedicated fully to her life and work, walking you through the history and evolution of the most iconic Schiaparelli designs. The exhibition showcases over 200 pieces, including garments, accessories, paintings, sculptures, furniture, perfumes, and more.
I’d say this one’s the perfect exhibition if you’re looking for something a little different. Food Art Fair celebrates food, art, design, and culture at Ladbroke Hall in a one-day-only event on September 5 – part exhibition, part fair. Throughout the day, you’ll get to experience a mix of immersive exhibitions, edible installations, live performances, screenings, and talks from over 50 makers.
The idea is to explore food as “a medium for creativity, communication, and cultural exchange”. Beyond the various happenings mentioned above, the fair will also include a curated market of independent publications and objects. Don’t miss out on the hands-on workshops either, covering everything from fermentation and cake decorating to “poetry with bread-making”.
