Travel Guides

Back in the day, as a newcomer to London’s art scene, I was excited to explore the vibrant and diverse cultural offerings that this city has to offer. From contemporary art exhibitions to classic masterpieces, London has it all. And with so much to see and do, I found myself struggling to decide where to start. As an art enthusiast, I have compiled a list of some of the best galleries, exhibitions, and art experiences in the city. London is home to a vibrant art scene, and visitors can explore it with the help of a CityPass, an all-in-one ticket that grants access to over 80 top attractions, including many art galleries. One of my favourite places in London’s art scene is the National Portrait Gallery. It houses a collection of over 200,000 portraits of some of the most important figures in British history, including Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth II. Unfortunately, the gallery is closed for refurbishment until summer 2023. However, there are still plenty of other galleries and exhibitions to explore in the city. First up, the Tate Modern. This iconic gallery is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art. With a constantly changing roster of exhibitions, the Tate Modern showcases works from some of the most exciting and innovative artists from around the world. From immersive installations to thought-provoking sculptures. One of my favourite places, the Tate, is a towering structure on the banks of the River Thames that houses some of the world’s most famous contemporary art. From the iconic works of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse to the more contemporary works of Tracey Emin and Olafur Eliasson, there is something for everyone at the Tate Modern. On the other hand, the National Gallery is perfect for those who prefer traditional art. It houses some of the world’s most famous paintings, including Van Gogh’s sunflowers and Da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks. The National Gallery is one of the most iconic galleries in London, and visitors can book a guided tour to explore its extensive collection of artworks. For those interested in more niche art experiences, the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea is a must-visit. It showcases contemporary art from emerging artists and is known for its bold and daring exhibitions. Paint Jam London is another must-visit if you want to try your hand at creating your own masterpiece while enjoying live music and a lively atmosphere. If you want something more off the beaten path, the Whitechapel Gallery in East London often showcases works by lesser-known artists. The gallery has a history of featuring politically and socially engaged artists, and its exhibitions often touch on themes of diversity and identity. The street art scene in London is vibrant, and visitors can explore it with a guided tour or by using the Street Art London app, which provides a map of the city’s most popular street art locations. Do not forget to check out the annual Frieze Art Fair, one of the largest contemporary art fairs in the world. Taking place each October in Regents Park, Frieze brings together over 160 of the world’s leading galleries, showcasing works by established and emerging artists alike. The London Art Fair is also must-visit event for art lovers, and visitors can purchase tickets in advance to explore the works of over 100 galleries and artists. The Turner Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in contemporary art, showcasing the work of some of the most talented artists in the UK. Every year, the prize is awarded to an artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of contemporary art. The prize was established in 1984 and is named after the painter J.M.W. Turner, who is widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest artists. The Royal Academy of Arts hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, and visitors can buy tickets in advance to secure their spot. Finally, If you’re interested in taking a more hands-on approach to art, I recommend checking out the workshops offered by The Art Academy. From drawing and painting to printmaking and sculpture, their classes cater to all levels of experience and offer a supportive and creative environment. So there you have it, a beginner’s guide to the London art scene. With so much to explore and discover, it’s never been a better time to immerse yourself in the world of art. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or a curious newcomer, London’s art scene has something for everyone and I highly recommend it to anyone. London’s art scene is diverse and dynamic, and visitors can make the most of their experience with the help of a London Pass, which provides access to a range of top attractions, including art galleries and museums Peace EA