Blockbuster exhibitions in the South

Planning an art excursion in the South of England? From an intimate glimpse at everyday 20th-century life to a contemporary painter who blends pop culture with mythology, don't miss out on the biggest exhibitions open now.
The South of England is brimming with cultural hotspots, from visitor favourites such as Tate St Ives and the Holburne Museum to historic houses like artists' haven Charleston and literary retreat Chawton House.
And there's plenty to see and do with a rolling programme of must-see exhibitions running throughout the year. Whether you're a history buff or fascinated by the new, you're bound to find an exhibition you'll love.
Here's our guide to some of the biggest blockbuster exhibitions in the South open now.
Don't forget to pack your National Art Pass to get great benefits at every venue, and check out our full listings for more upcoming exhibitions.
Discover some of the best exhibitions in the South of England with an Art Pass

Where the Light Falls: Winifred Joseph's Rural Archive
See what everyday rural life was like during the 20th century through the eyes of Winifred Joseph. Although she wasn't a professional photographer, Joseph used a Kodak camera to capture over 1000 images. 70 of these go on display in this exhibition, lovingly documenting her friends, family and home life.

Sophie Barber
Discover a contemporary artist and Hastings local who mines the world around her for creative inspiration. Sophie Barber creates large-scale paintings that blend humour and pop culture with mythology and the surreal. For this exhibition of new works, Barber references some of her favourite artists, from Georgia O’Keeffe to Vincent van Gogh. While you're at the gallery, don't miss two other solo exhibitions by Isabel Rock and Michael Landy.

Hew Locke: Armada
From contemporary cargo ships to historic galleons, Hew Locke's installation recreates a patchwork flotilla of miniature boats to explore themes of trade, migrations and displacement. Different time periods and cultures are represented in each piece, which are crafted from found materials, such as toys, fishing nets and replica medals. Locke is a contemporary artist whose work investigates the language of colonial power, cross-cultural symbols of authority, and how these shift over time.

Illustrating Austen
From Elizabeth Bennet to Sir Walter Elliot, Jane Austen has created some of English literature's most iconic characters. In this exhibition, celebrate 250 years since the beloved author's birth by diving into the art and illustrations that brought her treasured novels to life and into our hands.

This Is What You Get: Stanley Donwood, Radiohead, Thom Yorke
Uncover the artistic vision and creative journey of Radiohead's Thom Yorke and artist Stanley Donwood, who have collaborated for 30 years. Dive into over 180 objects, including original paintings, album covers, digital works, drawings and handwritten lyrics.

The In Crowd: Mod Fashion and Style 1958-1966
Peek into the fashion, music and rebellious lifestyle of the Mods, an iconic 1960s youth subculture who represented a quintessential Britishness with a forward-thinking attitude. Marvel at the sharp garments that epitomised their bold style and creative freedom.

Seeing Each Other: Portraits of Artists
Dive into 125 years of British art in this exhibition revealing how artists have represented their peers. From the Bloomsbury Group to the Young British Artists, you'll discover how different artists embraced portraiture, revealing relationships and inspirations.