I don’t know why, but they’re something different and special about going to an exhibition in the summertime. You don’t have to schlep around your coat and three jumpers the second you step inside, instead, the aircon is a refreshing change from the swarm of heat waves outside. The walk on the way to the museum felt all the more inspiring as you passed mothers and children in the park and saw the blossom falling off the tree. Your oat milk iced brew just hits different before you step inside and the world just looks…better! It sets a perfect tone for a day of culture.
Wishu wants to bring you a list of the most exciting exhibitions London has to offer this summer so that you can use the season to reset and feel inspired.
Surrealism Beyond Borders, at Tate Modern
Expanding the scope of previous shows dedicated to surrealism, this exhibition covers work by artists from 40 countries over 80 years – see works by Magritte, Dali and more. Until 29 August.
Japan: Courts and Culture at the Queen’s Gallery
Be intrigued by an exhibition of Japanese art from the Royal Collection at The Queen’s Gallery. The rare pieces on display include diplomatic gifts from the reigns of James I to Elizabeth II, providing an insight into Japanese artistry and the cultural exchange between the British and Japanese royal and imperial families. Until 12 March.
Our Time on Earth at The Curve, Barbican Centre
Catch a glimpse into the future, as Our Time on Earth hones in on changing conversations and ideas around the climate crisis. This forward-thinking exhibition at The Curve at the Barbican Centre combines immersive, interactive and digital works to explore different ways of living in harmony with our planet. Until 29 August.
Pip & Pop at the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art
Pique your colour palette in Kew Gardens this summer. Pip & Pop is a vibrant exhibition of rainbow artworks made out of sugar and candy by artist Tanya Schultz at The Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Artinside Kew Gardens. Immerse yourself in the imaginary landscape installation created with Kew scientists and filled with foods of the future. 21 May-5 Mar. See this exhibition as part of entry to Kew Gardens – book Kew Gardens tickets now.
Platinum Jubilee: The Queen’s Accession at Buckingham Palace
This remarkable exhibition documents the Queen’s Accession to the throne in February 1952. The historic display in the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace features an exquisite collection of Her Majesty’s royal portraits and jewellery. 22 Jul-2 Oct. See this exhibition as part of entry to Buckingham Palace – book Buckingham Palace tickets now.
Making Modernism at Royal Academy of Arts
Discover Making Modernism at Royal Academy of Arts, illustrating the pioneering work of women who developed a radical new approach to European art in the early 1900s. Featuring innovative self-portraits, urban scenes and landscapes from celebrated artists such as Paula Modersohn-Becker, Kӓthe Kollwitz, Gabriele Münter and Marianne Werefkin. 12 Nov-12 Feb.
Magdalena Abakanowicz at Tate Modern
Get a rare opportunity to see Polish artist Magdalena Abakanowicz’s famous Abakans at Tate Modern. The pioneering installation features the ambiguous woven fibre sculptures in a towering forest-like display, alongside the artist’s drawings and early textile pieces. 17 Nov-21 May.
