Culture vultures of the capital gather 'round; London's art scene is alive with a kaleidoscope of exhibitions, each offering a glimpse into the city's creative spirit. From centuries-old masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works, these showcases are not just exhibitions – they're experiences. Whether you're a sucker for the avant-garde or a traditionalist at heart, there's a feast of gorgeous art waiting to entice your senses. Hop on the culture train, and let's dive into a realm of inspiration with the best exhibitions in London 2024.
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Yoko Ono: Music Of The Mind
Tate Modern, 15 February – 1 September 2024
Music of the Mind at Tate Modern takes a deep dive into the remarkable journey of Yoko Ono, highlighting pivotal moments in her artistic evolution. Curated by Juliet Bingham and Patricia Dander, the exhibition holds over 200 pieces that explore Ono's avant-garde world. While the exhibit spans seven decades, it's the 1960s that steal the show, with the iconic Cut Piece, a pioneer of fluid performance art, setting the stage for her ongoing quest to dismantle barriers in artistic expression. Don't just observe – participate, engage, and be inspired by the power of art galleries in London to provoke change. Hungry? Mosey on over to nearby The Refinery for a hearty meal filled with organic ingredients.
Tate Modern's blockbuster of the year, Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind, immerses you in the icon's revolutionary journey.
Taylor Swift | Songbook Trail
The V&A, 27 July – 8 September 2024
Taylor Swift | Songbook Trail kicks off on July 27, giving Swifties the chance to ogle at the mega popstars costumes, accessories, music awards, storyboards, and loads of other never-before-seen knick-knacks, all for free. The exhibition takes you through 13 stations, each with its own dramatic flair and killer playlist, where visitors can feast their eyes on a range of items delving into Taylor Swift's childhood and musical legacy. Each stop showcases a different phase of Swift's mega music career, which took off when she moved to Nashville at just 14. The installations are the brainchild of Tom Piper, renowned for his stage designs for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the V&A's previous 'Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser' exhibition.
Still down with Tay-Tay fever? Here's the ultimate way to shake off that Taylor Swift-sized gap in your life.
Fragile Beauty: Photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish
The V&A, 18 May 2024 – 5 January 2025
Fragile Beauty: Photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish Collection is a must-see exhibition featuring over 300 rare prints. With the majority never before seen by the public, this exhibition marks the V&A's largest photography showcase to date. Spanning eight thematic sections, delve into fashion, reportage, celebrity culture, and more as you're taken on a tour from the 1950s to the present day. Journey through iconic portraits of Marilyn Monroe and jazz legends like Miles Davis to poignant snapshots of pivotal historical moments, including the Civil Rights movement and 1980s AIDS activism. For a stunning Kensington bar experience nearby, The Gore Hotel's Bar 190, AKA the home of rock 'n' roll, is your best bet.
There are plenty of London exhibitions to get into, like Fragile Beauty: Photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish.
Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers
The National Gallery, 14 September 2024 – 19 January 2025
As The National Gallery celebrates its 200th birthday, what better way to commemorate than with a showcase of one of art's most iconic figures? As it's rolling out the red carpet for a once-in-a-century exhibition that promises to dazzle art enthusiasts far and wide, prepare to be transported into the Dutch maestro's vibrant world with Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers, where starry nights and sunflowers reign supreme. For afters, keep the festivities going with a trip to The Rooftop for stunning cocktails with equally beautiful vistas of London.
Prepare to be blown away by the maestro's most spectacular works at The National Gallery's Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers.
Japan: Myths To Manga
Young V&A, 14 October 2023 – 8 September 2024
Dive into the heart of Japanese storytelling at the Young V&A's Japan: Myths to Manga. Celebrating the playful and imaginative spirit of Japanese culture, this showcase brings together over 15 historical and contemporary objects that capture the essence of Japan's rich artistic heritage. From Tamagotchis to Hello Kitty rice cookers and even a manga-inspired Comme des Garçons coat, the exhibition is a vibrant tapestry of Japanese pop culture. Embark on an exciting adventure through Japan's landscapes and folklore, exploring how they've shaped the country's art, technology, and design. For a yummy Venezuelan end-of-day snack, we'd recommend Arepa & Co for authentic arepas and moreish rice bowls.
Marvel at eye-catching sculptures made from disused car parts and colourful paper at The Young V&A's Japan: Myths To Manga.
Barbie: The Exhibition
The Design Museum, 5 July 2024 - 23 February 2025
Still have Barbie-mania on the brain? Step into the fabulous world of the iconic doll at Barbie: The Exhibition. As this cultural icon celebrates its 65th anniversary in 2024, the Design Museum will take you through Barbie's history, exploring her story through a unique design lens. Curated by Danielle Thorn, this exhibition honours Barbie's legacy of challenging stereotypes, championing feminism, and embracing diversity over the past 65 years. Discover over 250 remarkable objects tracing her journey from 1959 to today. From fashion to architecture, furniture and vehicle design, uncover the unexpected influence of London style on this all-American creation. Time for a cute lil' brunch break? The Other Kitchen in Harrington Gardens awaits you with gorgeous seasonal plates like eggs florentine and spring vegetable risotto.
Come on, Barbie, let's go to Barbie: The Exhibition At The Design Museum, one of the best art exhibitions in London for 2024.
The Last Caravaggio
The National Gallery, 18 April – 21 July 2024
Make your way to The National Gallery for The Last Caravaggio, an in-depth exploration into the dramatic works of one of history's greatest artists in his final, turbulent years. Prepare to be mesmerized by Caravaggio's signature style, with its tightly cropped scenes and dramatic lighting stealing the spotlight. Plus, you'll get the rare opportunity to feast your eyes on The Martyrdom of Saint Ursula (1610), making its triumphant return to London after two decades, alongside the haunting Salome with the Head of John the Baptist (1609-10). For a coffee break from all the art, head over to Notes Trafalgar Square for a delicious hot drink with a side of steaming liege waffles.
Experience the drama and emotion of the artist's last hurrah at The National Gallery's The Last Caravaggio exhibition.
Cloud Songs On The Horizon
Barbican Conservatory, 31 May - 28 July 2024
Step into a world of wonder at the Barbican's stunning conservatory, where Indian sculptor Ranjani Shettar's magnificent works take centre stage. Cloud Songs On The Horizon marks Shettar's first major show in Europe, featuring five breathtaking suspended sculptures inspired by the beauty of nature. Crafted by hand using various materials, including wood, stainless steel, and muslin, Shettar's designs capture the complexity of the natural world. Fancy a cheeky post-museum tipple and a bite? The Jugged Hare on Chiswell Street is a great shout.
From lacquer to traditional crafts, each piece is a testament to the artist's skill at Cloud Songs On The Horizon.
If you're looking for more museums to visit in London, check out our guide here. You can also stay in the loop by signing up to our newsletter.
