London's art calendar is set to ignite this summer with a series of high-profile exhibitions, headlined by a major showing of Anish Kapoor's work at the Hayward Gallery. Known for his monumental sculptures and profound exploration of colour and space, Kapoor's exhibition promises a 'sublime spectacle' for visitors from 16th June to 18th October, cementing his status as a modern master.
Elsewhere, the Courtauld Gallery offers a fresh perspective on a British icon with 'Hepworth in Colour'. Running until 6th September, this exhibition delves into Barbara Hepworth's pioneering and often overlooked use of vibrant hues, challenging the perception of her work as solely monochromatic. The display aims to reveal a new dimension to the St Ives sculptor's oeuvre, with pieces described as evoking 'blue and white visions'.
Beyond the capital, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park near Wakefield will host 'Hold to this Earth', an exhibition featuring contemporary Indigenous North American artists such as Dakota Mace, Virgil Ortiz, and Jaune Quick-to-See Smith. Opening on 13th June and running until 18th April next year, the collection brings an ecological vision to the Yorkshire landscape, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and environmental commentary.
The Royal Academy also welcomes back its much-anticipated Summer Exhibition from 16th June to 23rd August. This annual fixture sees a diverse array of works from enthusiastic artists across Britain displayed alongside pieces by established figures like Tracey Emin and Grayson Perry, celebrating the breadth of contemporary British art.
In a poignant retrospective, the legacy of David Hockney continues to resonate, with his work frequently celebrated for its visual pleasure and inspirational fashion sense. Hockney, a beloved figure in British art, has consistently pushed boundaries and captivated audiences with his distinctive style and vibrant palette, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.
Meanwhile, the Glasgow International, running until 21st June, features a significant exhibition of work by David Wojnarowicz. A key figure in the 1980s New York art scene, Wojnarowicz's art powerfully documented and protested against the US's handling of the AIDS crisis, a testament to art's role in social commentary and activism.