Your Cultural Start to 2020 – Exhibitions to See Now

Wondering how to spend the leisurely languid days between winter and spring? The dawn of a new decade also heralds a whole host of new things to do, so here are our top picks of the most inspiring art and cultural events from across the country over the next month or so...

Head to the Serpentine for a major exhibition by German artist Albert Oehlen. A key figure since the 1980s, his inventive works bring together vibrant abstract computer-generated images on large canvases, pushing art to new extremes. Explore his works, old and new, in the unique architecture of the Serpentine Gallery. One of the highlights is Oehlen’s interpretation of the Rothko Chapel in Houston, Texas, showcased in the gallery’s domed central space.

 

The Bristol Light Festival will be illuminating the city for the very first time, bringing something new to the city’s calendar for residents and visitors alike. From Castle Bridge and Park Street to Trinity Steps, discover Bristol’s iconic cityscape, as well as unexpected surprises, as the city is lit up after dark.

 

This exhibition features work from nine contemporary artists based in Scotland, with each artist demonstrating a minimalist aesthetic. From drawings and paintings, to ceramics and tapestry, each artist showcases a tonal palette throughout each different medium used. 

 

May Morris, daughter of renowned Arts and Crafts movement artist William Morris, created some of the most iconic textile and wallpaper designs at Morris & Co. With over 80 original textiles and drawings brought together from around the UK, this extraordinary exhibition showcases her talents and the extent of her influence, both in the UK and abroad. 

 

Tim Walker, known for his creative and inventive photography, has worked very closely with the V&A curators, conservators and technicians to bring the largest exhibition of his work to date. Explore his creative process, as well as new photographic projects influenced by the V&A’s treasures at this monumental exhibition. 

 

This multi-sensory exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum might get your mouth watering as it showcases four historical reconstructions, such as a Jacobean sugar banquet and a Georgian confectioner’s workshop, alongside treasures from the museum’s collections. Exploring historical and contemporary issues and attitudes to food, this exhibition links the past with the present in the most erudite, delicious way. 

 

Johanna Unzueta: Tools for Life, Modern Art Oxford
8^th February – 10^th May 2020

This is Chilean artist Johanna Unzueta’s first ever solo exhibition in the UK. Based in New York, Unzueta creates artworks that reflect her interest in the shared histories of communities, nature and geography. Using multidisciplinary methods, this exhibition of her work invites the viewer to consider the actions required to produce everyday objects that we wouldn’t think twice about using.

This archive exhibition presents the work of Hungarian artist Dóra Maurer, spanning more than five decades. Expect to be immersed in experimental and inspiring works from conceptual photography and abstract, powerful paintings to moving images. Maurer’s work expresses her unique voice and talent throughout.