London has once again proved itself as a hub for exceptional art exhibitions in 2025. The city’s art scene thrived with a diverse range of shows that not only showcased marquee artists but also highlighted the work of often overlooked or marginalized individuals. From Indigenous artists to queer pioneers and trailblazing women, museums in London made a conscious effort to diversify their offerings and narratives.
One of the standout exhibitions of the year was Henri Michaux: The Mescaline Drawings at the Courtauld Institute. Curated by Ketty Gottardo, the exhibition delved into Michaux’s experimentation with mescaline and how it influenced his intricate graphic work. The display of his dream-like creations was both poetic and visually captivating, offering a unique insight into the artist’s creative process.
At Tate Modern, the retrospective of Leigh Bowery curated by Fiontán Moran, Jessica Baxter, Nicola Rainbird, and Margery King, shed light on the enigmatic artist known for his spectacular outfits and transformative performances. The exhibition provided a comprehensive overview of Bowery’s life and work, revealing the depth of his impact on contemporary art and fashion.
Another highlight was Do Ho Suh: Walk the House at Tate Modern, curated by Nabila Abdel Nabi and Dina Akhmadeeva. Suh’s recreations of his previous homes in fabric mesh offered visitors a tactile and immersive experience, exploring themes of home and memory in a unique way.
Edward Burra’s exhibition at Tate Britain, curated by Thomas Kennedy with Eliza Spindel, showcased the wild and unconventional art of the English artist from the 1920s. Burra’s work, characterized by its stylized imagery, was a testament to his unorthodox genius and unique perspective on the world.
Jenny Saville: The Anatomy of Painting at the National Portrait Gallery curated by Sarah Howgate, provided a rare opportunity to experience the large-scale, powerful work of the YBA artist. Saville’s painterly style, influenced by art historical traditions, was a testament to her skill and impact on the art world.
The Royal Academy of Arts presented an unexpected pairing of Vincent van Gogh and Anselm Kiefer in an exhibition curated by Julien Domercq and Natasha Fyffe. The show explored the connection between the two artists and offered a fresh perspective on their work, highlighting Kiefer’s interpretation of van Gogh’s spirit.
Emily Kam Kngwarray’s exhibition at Tate Modern curated by Kelli Cole, showcased the stunning works of the Australian Aboriginal artist, who translated traditional image-making traditions into contemporary art forms. The exhibition was a testament to Kngwarray’s cultural legacy and storytelling through abstraction.
Kerry James Marshall: The Histories at the Royal Academy curated by Mark Godfrey, Adrian Locke, Rose Thompson, and Nikita Sena Quarshie, celebrated the work of the acclaimed painter and his ambitious exploration of African history. Marshall’s newest canvases were both historically precise and provocative, solidifying his position as one of the greatest painters of his generation.
Lee Miller’s retrospective at Tate Britain curated by Hilary Floe and Saskia Flower, revealed the photographer’s ambitious and brave career through an extensive archive of prints and negatives. The exhibition shed light on Miller’s achievements and contributions to the art world.
Finally, Joseph Wright of Derby: From the Shadows at the National Gallery curated by Christine Riding, showcased the tenebrist techniques of the artist often referred to as “Britain’s Caravaggio.” The exhibition highlighted Wright of Derby’s optimism, spiritualism, and faith in science, offering a fresh perspective on his work.
Overall, London’s art scene in 2025 was marked by a diverse range of exhibitions that celebrated both established artists and emerging talents, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions in the art world. The city’s museums and galleries demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity and awareness of diverse narratives, making it an exciting time for art lovers and enthusiasts alike.
