British summertime is renowned for its rain. Thankfully, we live in a country with plenty of museums, art galleries, and things to do during the wet weather we are all so accustomed to.
With lots going on this summer, we’ve made a list of the top 5 must-see art exhibitions for those rainy summer afternoons.
1. Damien Hirst. Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton.
The Turner Prize winning artist has set up shop in the Yorkshire Sculpture park, and will be there until September 29th showcasing seven of his major works. The sculptures stand anywhere between 6 and 10 metres in height, and explore and question a range of subjects from religious narrative to psychology. They can be found in the newly revived Deer Park, perfectly set against the lake. Admission to the exhibition is free, so it’s the perfect way to spend a day off. Bear in mind though, it is an open air gallery, so bring your cagoule!
2. The EY Exhibition: Van Gogh and Britain. Tate Britain, London.
Okay, I know it’s all the way down in the dreaded realm of “the south”. But if you’ve saved your pennies and fancy a day or two in the capital, EY’s Van Gogh and Britain is not to be missed. The exhibition at the Tate Britain explores Van Gogh’s time in the country and the affect it had on his art work. The exhibition will run until August 11th, and tickets can be as much as £30. However, Under 25s can sign up the Tate Collective online and get tickets for just a fiver. With some of the artists’ best-known paintings included in the collection, this really is a must-see for all fans of post-impressionism.
3. Beyond Faith. The Whitworth Gallery, Manchester.
Beyond Faith: Muslim Women Artists Today explores the work and narratives of Robina Akhter Ullah, Shabana Baig, Fatimah Fagihassan, Aida Foroutan and Usarae Gul. The exhibition is designed the challenge the exclusion of Muslim women in the art world, and to bring to light the significant contribution they make despite this. The exhibition starts on June 14th and will run until October, so you have plenty of time to check it out on a day trip to Manchester. This free exhibition explores culture and identity, vitally giving a platform to an extremely underrepresented group.
4. Mid-Century Modern. The Hepworth,Wakefield.
Mid-Century Modern is a quirky amalgamation of antique auction and art show. The two-day exhibition will feature some of the top interior dealers from around the country, and work from some of the best designers of mid-century furniture. It’s an exhibition that if you like what you see, you can take it home- you don’t get to say that about many art shows! Even if you can’t afford hand-crafted vintage furniture, it’s a wonderful opportunity for creatives to surround themselves with pieces of elegant and sought-after design. Tickets are £3 in advance, or just a fiver on the door. You can check out Mid-Century Modern’s Instagram as well, to get a feel for what kind of things will be available.
5. Aesthetica Art Prize exhibition. York Art Gallery, York.
Travelling out of town is hard, but thankfully Yorkie readers have a gem right on their doorstep. Aesthetica Magazine’s annual Art Prize exhibit is once again on at York Art Gallery, showcasing some of the best works of contemporary art from around the world. The pieces explore the fate of the individual in an age of uncertainty, exploring technology and globalisation, communicating unique ideas through brilliant pieces of art. Admission to York Art gallery costs a hefty £8 per adult, although rates are discounted for students or York residents. Aesthetica Art Prize will run until July 14th, so be sure to catch it quick!
