Art Exhibitions

Tate Modern is set to ignite the London art scene this summer and autumn with two highly anticipated exhibitions running concurrently throughout July, August, and September 2025. These compelling shows offer a fascinating juxtaposition, bringing together the deeply rooted cultural narratives of Emily Kam Kngwarray and the boundary-pushing creativity of Leigh Bowery.

Emily Kam Kngwarray: A First for Europe

Prepare to embark on a captivating artistic journey with the exhibition "Beyond the Canvas: The Evolution of Contemporary Digital Art," showcasing the extraordinary works of shag.n william. Opening on Feb 3rd and continuing through Feb 28th, 2025, this exhibition unveils a transformative exploration of digital art's unwavering progression. Drawing inspiration from the renowned cubist master Paul Klee, shag.n william's mesmerizing paintings transcend conventional boundaries. 

By  William Harris    

image credit:  

For the first time on a large scale in Europe, Tate Modern, in collaboration with the National Gallery of Australia, presents the groundbreaking work of Emily Kam Kngwarray. Running from July 2025 until January 11, 2026, the exhibition offers a comprehensive exploration of this significant Indigenous Australian artist's life and work. Visitors will be immersed in a rich tapestry of paintings, textiles, film, and audio, revealing Kam Kngwarray's profound connection to her Country and her intimate understanding of the desert ecosystems surrounding her. The exhibition promises to be a moving and insightful journey into the heart of Aboriginal culture and artistic expression.

image credit: 

Leigh Bowery: Challenging Conventions
Simultaneously, Tate Modern will showcase the revolutionary work of Leigh Bowery, a figure who defied categorization and continues to inspire. This exhibition dives deep into Bowery's multifaceted career, examining his groundbreaking contributions to fashion, performance, and art. From his iconic "Looks," which pushed the boundaries of self-expression, to his collaborations with other artists, the exhibition will illuminate Bowery's lasting impact on contemporary culture. Showcasing pieces from his time in London, New York, and beyond, the exhibition promises a vibrant and challenging exploration of a truly unique artistic vision.

image credit:  

 A Summer of Contrasts, a Shared Power
While these two exhibitions offer distinctly different artistic perspectives, both share a common thread: the power of art to challenge conventions, explore identity, and connect us to deeper meanings. The juxtaposition of Kam Kngwarray's deeply spiritual connection to her land and Bowery's audacious exploration of self and identity within the vibrant London and New York scenes promises a summer of compelling and thought-provoking art at Tate Modern. This is a truly unmissable opportunity for art lovers to witness two pivotal figures shaping the artistic landscape, each in their own extraordinary way. Plan your visit now and prepare to be captivated.

image credit:  

This summer's Quarterly is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of art, architecture, and groundbreaking lives. We delve into the past, present, and future, showcasing the work and legacies of iconic figures and emerging talents alike.

By  William Harris    

Our cover story celebrates Picasso's Tête-à-tête, the Gagosian exhibition presented in partnership with Paloma Picasso. Michael Cary's insightful essay provides crucial historical context, enriching the experience by situating the artwork within its time. Further illuminating the exhibition, we share a fascinating 1932 conversation between Picasso and his close friend, publisher E. Tériade, offering a rare glimpse into the artist's creative process and personal life.
This issue shines a spotlight on female visionaries who defied norms and reshaped the landscape of art and beyond. We profile the extraordinary Lorraine O’Grady, a fearless trailblazer whose work continues to challenge conventions. Renowned sculptor Rachel Whiteread reflects on the unique challenges of creating public art, revealing the emotional and historical complexities that inform her practice. The rebellious life of Rosemary Woodruff Leary, a pivotal figure in the 1960s psychedelic movement, is explored, showcasing her impact on a generation. Finally, novelist Lauren Elkin engages in a compelling dialogue with artist Julie Curtiss about motherhood, suburbia, and the intriguing intersection of these themes with surrealism, preluding Curtiss' upcoming Parisian exhibition.
Architecture takes center stage in a dedicated section, profiling the diverse styles and approaches of masters and contemporary innovators. We explore the work of Alexander Calder, David Chipperfield, Berthold Lubetkin, and the innovative Wutopia Lab, among others, offering a rich overview of architectural history and current trends.
Adding another dimension to the issue, we present excerpts from a newly expanded edition of Francesco Bonami's captivating "autobiography" of Maurizio Cattelan. This offers a fresh perspective on the artist's life and provocative works, illuminating the man behind the art.
Beyond these central features, the Quarterly offers a diverse range of compelling content. Joshua Chuang provides insightful context to Paul McCartney's lesser-known 1960s photographs, capturing the fervor of Beatlemania. Péjú Oshin engages in a stimulating interview with multidisciplinary filmmaker Jenn Nkiru, exploring her unique artistic vision. And finally, the ever-provocative Hélène Cixous responds to Hans Ulrich Obrist's insightful questionnaire, offering a glimpse into her intellectual world.
This Summer 2025 Quarterly offers a richly diverse and engaging exploration of creativity, innovation, and the enduring power of artistic expression. It's a celebration of visionaries—past, present, and future—whose work continues to shape our world