London's blockbuster exhibitions open now

From Queen Elizabeth II to Elizabeth Taylor, Cecil Beaton photographed some of the most famous faces of the 20th century. A trailblazing creative, he transformed fashion photography into its own art form, while capturing the glitz and glamour of the interwar and post-war periods. Marvel at these era-defining images, including portraits of Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and many more.

War correspondent, fashion model, Surrealist muse. Lee Miller wore many hats throughout her life, but her dedication to the art of photography is cemented in this major retrospective. From her appearance in an avant-garde film by Jean Cocteau to her devastating images from the Second World War, experience the breadth of Miller's staggering career, told through over 200 images, unseen archival material, first-person essays and more.

Marvel at the decadent fashion of Rococo queen Marie Antoinette. Her pastel silks, satin shoes, towering hair and frilly skirts were more than just a style – they were a tool of power. Discover how this ill-fated monarch left an enduring mark on fashion, art and film, and why her story still captivates and inspires us to this day.

Fashion's dirty side is under the spotlight in this fabulous exhibition of rebellious looks. From ripped jeans to lipstick-stained shirts, dig into the rising popularity of dirt and decay in fashion and beauty, set against a backdrop of algorithmic digital perfection. What do these rebellions reveal about us and our futures? Expect iconic pieces by titans in the field, including Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Maison Margiela, alongside pioneering creations by emerging designers.

Step into the Blitz, a cutting-edge nightclub and stomping ground for late 70s British subculture the New Romantics, who blended glam rock with Romantic period fashion. In just two years, this vibrant space transformed pop culture and nurtured a generation of creatives into global superstars.

Discover the artists who transformed modern art in Nigeria during the 20th century, both before and after 1960, when the country gained independence from British colonial rule. From El Anatsui to the Zaria Art Society, this era of cultural rebellion saw artists and their networks flourish across the country, merging Nigerian, African and European techniques to create multilayered, energetic works.

Discover the transformative power of music in this exhibition spotlighting Handel's Hallelujah Chorus. Just one operatic rendition of 'Hallelujah' can conjure this iconic musical composition in lots of people's minds, making it one of the most popular and recognised pieces of music to ever be created. Musical instruments, works of art, archival materials and an immersive installation by Mikhail Karikis shed new light on the Baroque anthem.

Journey through the last 25 years of art created by provocative artist duo Gilbert & George. Not afraid to explore social issues and taboos in their art, from sex and death to nationalism and class, floor-to-ceiling installations will take over the gallery spaces, revealing their interpretations of the world as it is today.

In this personal and celebratory installation, contemporary artist Claye Bowler presents a fictionalised archive inspired by his experience of accessing gender-affirming surgery over seven years. Parts of the installation are owned by different collections, so don't miss this rare chance to see the installation as a complete work of art; one that centres trans joy, resilience and belonging.

Discover Emily Kam Kngwarray, a celebrated Australian artist whose powerful paintings chart her life as an Indigenous Anmatyerr woman and her detailed knowledge of her Country. Her colossal paintings use layered motifs to illustrate the diverse plants, animals and geological features of the surrounding desert. It is important to note that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are deeply connected with their Country and ancestral lands, a connection that traverses spiritual, social and geographical borders.

Meet Shirley Smith, Grayson Perry's latest alter ego and museum heiress in crisis, in the largest contemporary exhibition ever staged at the Wallace Collection alongside masterpieces from their collection. From striking sculptures to vibrant tapestries and story-filled ceramics, Perry's works of art add to the mythology of his newest persona, while drawing on childhood experiences and examining what it means to make and collect art today.