The London art scene is thriving, with a diverse range of shows and exhibitions to choose from. From thought provoking photography to textiles, abstract painting, sculpture and fashion, there’s a plethora of genres and ideas to explore. Here are some of the highlights to catch this summer.
Hilma af Klint and Piet Mondrian, Tate Modern, London, until 13 September
Both of these painters are famed for their abstract work, but they both started out as landscape painters. Hilma af Klint (1862-1944) was a Swedish painter who was inspired by her visions. Her ideas of spirituality and mysticism were underpinned by scientific knowledge, and this led her to explore the boundaries of abstraction through natural forms.
Klint’s large scale paintings are works to lose yourself in: fascinating canvases of symbols, colour and shape that are uplifting and a reminder of the world that lies beyond the mundanity of everyday life.
The Dutch artist Piet Mondrian (1872-1944) was also interested in spiritualism and philosophy. He is most famous for his grid paintings such as Composition with red, black, yellow, blue and grey (1921). However he also produced botanical studies of flowers which are on display in this exhibition.
The two artists never met each other, but their work is linked by a desire to express enigmatic visions through abstract painting. Both artists were deeply inspired by the natural world and the latest scientific and philosophical knowledge informed their work. There are over 250 paintings, drawings, and archival materials on display.
Berthe Morisot, Dulwich Picture Gallery, until 10 September
Berthe Morisot was a French Impressionist painter (1841-1892), who has been described as a trailblazer for the movement. She was engaged in the latest ideas about art and culture but had a unique vision of her own, interpreting social life and domestic scenes with a fresh and vivid eye.
Alongside Morisot’s work are artworks by Reynolds, Gainsborough and Fragonard, which provide context and comparison.
Dear Earth: Art and Hope in a Time of Crisis, Hayward Gallery, until 3 September
The Dear Earth exhibition is a part of the wider summer season focusing on the effects of climate change. There are works from 15 international contemporary artists on display, with a focus on resilience and compassion rather than dystopian gloom and despair.
The artworks are composed from a range of media, including large scale photographs and sculptural pieces made from recycled materials. The artists featured in the exhibition include Ackroyd & Harvey, Andrea Bowers, Imani Jacqueline Brown, Agnes Denes, John Gerrard, Cristina Iglesias, Aluaiy Kaumakan, Jenny Kendler, Richard Mosse, and Otobong Nkanga.
Summer Exhibition, Royal Academy of Arts, until 20 August
The renowned summer RA Exhibition holds its 255th show this year, and it is coordinated by the British artist David Remfry. It is a chance for the general public to have their work recognised and it is inspiring to see the range of incredible works and talent on display.
There are also works by established artists including Tracey Emin, Micheal Craig-Martin, and Gillian Wearing.
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