Blockbuster exhibitions in the South
Planning an art excursion in the South of England? From a rebellious feminist art collective to a celebration of dance culture, 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
Making Her Mark: A Celebration of Women in Art
Discover the pioneering women artists who transformed British art, from the 19th century to today. In collaboration with Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum and Kirkcaldy Galleries, over 50 works by important artists go on display, including Tracey Emin, Barbara Hepworth and Dod Procter. This is part of Going Places, Art Fund's major exhibition-touring programme.
Dance Out
Celebrate the power of dance and the importance of dance culture – powerfully expressed through paintings, drawings and film. Throughout the duration of the exhibition, the galleries will evolve to accomodate a series of dance events. Don't miss the immersive installation by contemporary artist Melanie Manchot, supported by Art Fund.
Guerrilla Girls
Guerrilla Girls are an anonymous feminist collective who create striking graphic art interventions that challenge racism and sexism in the art world. Since the 1980s, they've exposed who is excluded from institutional spaces and why, using bold imagery, text and humour to challenge how these systems of power operate. While you're at Charleston in Firle, don't miss their other exhibition on Virginia Woolf's independent publishing house.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Experience the magic of the nature in this exhibition of spectacular photographs, on tour from the Natural History Museum. From animals in their natural habitats to dramatic landscapes, the esteemed photography competition offers an overview of the current state of our planet and an urgent reminder of our duty to protect it.
In Bloom: How Plants Changed Our World
Witness the beauty and hidden histories behind some of our favourite blooms, from roses and peonies to tulips and camellias. This major exhibition dives into the stories behind how flowers and plants made their way across the globe and into Britain's homes and gardens. Hear about the early plant explorers who travelled the world to discover exotic flora and see how the beauty of natural world has been captured in over 100 works of art and objects.
The Saxons
Journey through history and into the world of the Saxons. Spotlighting three Saxon burial sites, the exhibition unveils Buckinghamshire's early medieval past and who the Saxons really were. Marvel at glittering treasures, explore how a warlord ruled and discover secrets of the past.
Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy
To mark 100 years since Beryl Cook's birth, dive into the life and legacy of the self-taught British painter at the Box in Plymouth – a city whose everyday life was joyfully captured by Cook through exuberant scenes of its cafés, clubs, bingo halls and social gatherings. And, her works are celebrated for their representation of queer communities.
Don't miss the opportunity to see Bingo (1984) by Cook displayed for the first time, a work that the Box acquired for their public collection with Art Fund support. And did you know? Every person who puchases a National Art Pass makes acquisitions like this possible.