Blockbuster exhibitions in the South
Planning an art excursion in the South of England? From an influential sisterhood to a contemporary painter who plays with form, 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
Women of Influence: The Pattle Sisters
Meet the seven sisters who transformed 19th-century society and culture. The esteemed Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron is today regarded as the most well-known of the sisters. But, this exhibition unveils how all of them left an enduring mark on culture, due to their Anglo-Indian heritage and their dedication to artistic experimentation and intellectual exchange.
William Nicholson
Marvel at paintings of still lifes, portraits and landscapes by William Nicholson in the first major exhibition dedicated to the British artist. Beyond his painting career, you'll uncover Nicholson's work as a graphic designer and illustrator, and you'll witness original drawings for the iconic children's book, The Velveteen Rabbit.
Bridget Riley: Learning to See
Step into Bridget Riley's world of optical illusions where spots, stripes and other patterns dance around on her iconic canvases. Riley's paintings from the 1960s to today unveil into her commitment to examining the representation of colour, form and rhythym through the use of repeated motifs.
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.
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.