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London's blockbuster exhibitions open now

Planning a cultural day out in the city? From the wonderful world of Wes Anderson at the Design Museum to Turner and Constable's artistic rivalry at Tate Britain, don't miss the biggest exhibitions in London open now.

London is home to one of the most vibrant art scenes in the world. Whether you're interested in major international artists, world history or the bright new stars of visual art, there's something on offer for every cultural appetite.

From visitor favourites such as Tate and the V&A to neighbourhood gems like Dulwich Picture Gallery, a rolling programme of must-see exhibitions runs throughout the year.

Here's our guide to some of the biggest blockbuster exhibitions in London right now.


Don't forget to pack your National Art Pass to get reduced-price entry at every venue, and check out our full listings for more upcoming exhibitions.

Discover some of the best exhibitions in London with an Art Pass

01

Boris Mikhailov: Ukrainian Diary

Since the 1960s, the Ukrainian artist Boris Mikhailov been documenting his country's social and political transformations while incorporating both humour and tragedy. In this major retrospective of his pioneering work, discover this 'proto-punk' artist and get a deeper understanding of the ongoing war in Ukraine today.

02

Wes Anderson: The Archives

From a pastel pink model of the Grand Budapest Hotel to original Fantastic Mr. Fox puppets, marvel at over 600 objects from Wes Anderson’s films. Drawing from extensive personal archives that Anderson has built over the last 30 years, uncover the iconic director’s dedication to his craft and cultivation of his distinct visual style.

03

Turner & Constable: Rivals & Originals

Come face-to-face with two of the most legendary landscape painters from Britain. JMW Turner and John Constable approached their paintings and their careers in bold and distinct ways, and they both experienced a lifelong rivalry in the art world. To mark 250 years since their births, this blockbuster exhibition reexamines their lives and legacies through their masterpieces, sketchbooks and personal items.

04

Wright of Derby: From the Shadows

Bask in the glow of Joseph Wright of Derby's mesmerising paintings in the National Gallery's first exhibition dedicated to this important British artist. Witness Wright's masterful ability to depict light and shadow, resulting in dramatic and luminous works that have captured audiences for centuries. And encounter scenes of scientific discovery, a subject matter that was not commonly recorded in 18th-century art.

05

Lee Miller

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.

06

Marie Antoinette Style

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.

07

Dirty Looks: Desire and Decay in Fashion

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.

08

Blitz: the club that shaped the 80s

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.

09

Nigerian Modernism

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.

10

A Grand Chorus: The Power of Music

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.