Top UK Art Exhibitions to See Before January 2016

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A roundup of seven must-see art exhibitions across the UK, featuring renowned artists like Goya and Ai Weiwei, along with thematic explorations of Pop Art and the works of Charles and Ray Eames. These exhibitions are available until early 2016, offering perspectives on art, culture, and society.

The UK is currently showcasing a myriad of outstanding art exhibitions. Here’s a curated list of seven must-see shows that encompass various artistic movements and unique perspectives, which will keep you engaged throughout the winter months. Don’t forget to mark your diaries as these exhibitions run until early 2016!

1. Goya: The Portraits
– Venue: National Gallery, London
– Dates: Until 10 January 2016
– Features 70 works from Goya, including iconic royal portraits rarely seen outside Spain.
– Financial Times calls it “the most enjoyable, profound, spectacular show of the year.”

2. Ai Weiwei
– Venue: Royal Academy, London
– Dates: Until 13 December 2015
– The exhibition showcases major installations reflecting on art, censorship, and human rights.
– According to The Times, “He shows us why art matters.”

3. Artist Rooms: Roy Lichtenstein
– Venue: Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Edinburgh
– Dates: Until 10 January 2016
– Features comic-strip-inspired works highlighting Lichtenstein’s Pop Art significance.
– The Herald Scotland mentions, “A man whose work looks more prescient the further we travel into a digital century.”

4. The World Goes Pop
– Venue: Tate Modern, London
– Dates: Until 24 January 2016
– This exhibition illustrates Pop Art’s global impact through various artists and regions.
– Evening Standard describes it as a show that “convincingly reflects an extraordinary global surge in pop’s colour and graphic exuberance.”

5. Enchanted Dreams
– Venue: Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Birmingham
– Dates: Until 14 February 2016
– A retrospective on Pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Robert Hughes, highlighting his narrative works.
– Birmingham Mail notes the exhibition showcases “delightful child portraiture and exquisite chalk drawings.”

6. Grayson Perry: A House For Essex
– Venue: Permanent display
– This installation is a blend of art and architecture, exploring Essex’s unique character.
– Daily Telegraph calls it “deliriously madcap,” elevating everyday life to a mythic status.

7. The World of Charles & Ray Eames
– Venue: Barbican, London
– Dates: Until 14 February 2016
– Explore the extensive design output of this influential couple through various mediums.
– The Guardian labels it a “cornucopian” exhibition showcasing their abundant creative talents.

The UK offers a diverse array of art exhibitions that cater to various tastes and interests. From Goya’s classic portraits to contemporary reflections by Ai Weiwei and the Eames, each show presents unique narratives and artistic explorations. Make sure to catch these exhibitions before they end in early 2016 to experience the richness of these cultural offerings.

Original Source: theweek.com