Artistic Escapes: Exploring London’s Free Exhibitions

From Basil Beattie's emotive canvases to the vibrant designs of Simone Brewster, this curated experience showcases artists redefining boundaries. Enjoy a mix of thought-provoking themes and playful experimentation across Central London and South Bank.

Curated by EPIFANI

8 stops in London

1. Basil Beattie: Another Place: Paintings from the 90s

   Hales Gallery

   Basil Beattie's work from the 90s is a compelling blend of abstraction and figuration. Look for the emotional depth in pieces like 'A Touching Sight', where colour and form evoke a raw sense of place and memory.

2. PLATFORM: Simone Brewster

   Design Museum

   Simone Brewster’s installation at the Design Museum is not just about aesthetics; it’s an exploration of identity through materiality. Her use of unconventional materials offers a fresh perspective on contemporary design.

3. Friday Late: To Ebb is To Flow

   Victoria and Albert Museum

   The V&A's Friday Late brings together East and Southeast Asian artists addressing gender in innovative ways. Expect an engaging atmosphere with live performances and discussions, making it a unique night out.

4. Gavin Turk: The Escapologist

   Ben Brown Fine Arts

   Gavin Turk’s 'The Escapologist' invites you to ponder art’s relationship with reality. His witty take on the mundane—like a door ‘ajar’—challenges viewers to think about the nature of escape and entry.

5. Xevi Solà, Endless Sun-days

   Opera Gallery London

   Xevi Solà’s 'Endless Sun-days' captures youthful escapism through bright, poolside scenes. This lively collection draws on nostalgia, making it a perfect antidote to the city’s winter gloom.

6. Yin Xiuzhen: Heart to Heart

   Hayward Gallery

   Yin Xiuzhen's 'Heart to Heart' at the Hayward Gallery features intricate installations that blur the line between personal and political. Pay attention to the emotional resonance in her work, reflecting on human connections.

7. Samuel Laurence Cunnane: Blue Road

   Hayward Gallery

   Samuel Laurence Cunnane’s 'Blue Road' presents stunning photography that transports viewers to serene landscapes. His work is a reminder of the beauty found in simplicity, inviting quiet reflection.

8. Creative Encounters: The Londoners' Printing Press

   Hayward Gallery

   Join Theo Hersey for 'Creative Encounters' at Hayward, where you can participate in community printing. This interactive experience highlights the joy of collaboration and creativity, making art accessible to everyone.