As the days grow longer and the sun begins to warm, spring offers the perfect chance to step out of hibernation and into the inspiring world of art. Across the UK, galleries are buzzing with new energy, showcasing exhibitions that promise to dazzle, provoke, and delight. From centuries-old masterpieces to bold contemporary visions, this season’s lineup is packed with creative brilliance.
Leading the charge is the British Museum’s Hiroshige: Artist of the Open Road, an exploration of one of Japan’s most celebrated ukiyo-e artists, whose works captured the beauty of 19th-century travel. If you’re seeking a journey closer to home, the National Gallery’s Siena: The Rise of Painting 1300-1350 reunites exquisite panels from 14th-century Siena, a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the birthplace of European artistic innovation. And for those craving a deep dive into myth and mystery, Undersea at Hastings Contemporary invites you to explore the wonders and whimsy of the world beneath the waves.
Whether you’re in London or venturing further afield, we’ve handpicked ten of the most exciting exhibitions this spring. Read on to discover the highlights and start planning your cultural escape—your next masterpiece awaits.
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1. Hiroshige: Artist of the Open Roads
British Museum, London
Dates: 1 May - 7 September 2025
Here at Animato, we’re enthusiasts for Japanese art, so unsurprisingly this exhibition had to feature at the top of our list. Begin your spring art journey with a celebration of Utagawa Hiroshige, the master of Japanese ukiyo-e prints. Known for his vivid and emotive landscapes, Hiroshige captured the essence of 19th-century Japan’s Tokaido road—a historic route linking Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto.
This landmark exhibition at the British Museum showcases highlights from Hiroshige’s iconic Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido series, alongside rarely seen works that chart his artistic evolution. Visitors will be transported to a world of tranquil mountain passes, bustling post towns, and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Edo-period Japan.
Whether you’re a seasoned admirer of Japanese art or a newcomer to its serene beauty, this exhibition promises a journey into one of the most influential artistic traditions in history. Find out more about this exhibition here.
The National Gallery, Photo Credit: Mike Peel / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
2. Sienna: The Rise of Painting 1300-1350
National Gallery, London
Dates: 8 March - 22 June 2025
Step back into the golden age of European art with Siena: The Rise of Painting 1300-1350, a breathtaking exhibition that celebrates the pivotal role of this Italian city in shaping artistic traditions. The National Gallery has brought together over 100 masterpieces, many reunited for the first time in centuries, to showcase Siena’s profound influence during the 14th century.
From the intricate detail of Duccio’s panels to the storytelling brilliance of Simone Martini and the Lorenzetti brothers, this exhibition is a treasure trove of creativity and innovation. Witness how Sienese artists balanced religious devotion with a pioneering spirit that helped lay the groundwork for Renaissance art.
Whether you’re an aficionado of Italian art or simply intrigued by the cultural heritage of Siena, this exhibition offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most formative artistic periods. Book your tickets now here.
Gina Birch, still from 3 Minute Scream 1977 © Gina Birch
3. Women in Revolt! Art and Activism in the UK 1970-1990
The Whitworth, University of Manchester
Dates: 7 March - 1 June 2025
Celebrate the radical creativity and fearless voices of the women’s liberation movement with Women in Revolt!. Hosted at the Whitworth in Manchester, this landmark exhibition showcases over 80 artists and collectives whose work redefined art and activism in the UK between the 1970s and 1990s.
Highlights include Bobby Baker’s thought-provoking sculptural installation An Edible Family in a Mobile Home, alongside provocative works that explore themes of gender, identity, and social change. With Manchester’s rich history of activism as its backdrop, this exhibition is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of women artists on culture and society.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history lover, Women in Revolt! offers a compelling journey into a transformative era of creativity and change. This exhibition is free, click here to find out more info!
Menino com Lagartixas by Lasar Segall (1924). Oil on canvas, 98 x 61 cm. Collection of Museu Lasar Segall. Photo by Marcelo Monzani Netto
4. Brasil! The Birth of Modernism
Royal Academy of Arts, London
Dates: 28 January - 21 April 2025
Experience the vibrant, transformative art of early 20th-century Brazil at Brasil! The Birth of Modernism. This groundbreaking exhibition at the Royal Academy brings together over 130 works by pivotal Brazilian artists, many of which are being shown in the UK for the first time.
From the bold, modernist explorations of Anita Malfatti to the striking compositions of Tarsila do Amaral, the exhibition highlights how these artists adapted international movements like Cubism and Futurism to reflect Brazil’s unique landscapes, cultures, and social identities. It’s an electrifying celebration of innovation and national pride that shaped the course of South American art history.
For anyone fascinated by modernism or looking to discover a fresh perspective on the global art scene, Brasil! The Birth of Modernism is a must-see this spring. Click here for more info on this great exhibition.
The Toilers of the Sea, by Édouard Manet
5. Undersea
Hastings Contemporary, Hastings
Dates: 29 March - 14 September 2025
Dive into the mysteries of the deep with Undersea, an enchanting exhibition at Hastings Contemporary. Curated by acclaimed art historian James Russell, this show explores humanity’s enduring fascination with the ocean, presenting over 75 works from across four centuries and cultures.
Expect to see everything from Paul Delvaux’s haunting A Siren in Full Moonlight to Klodin Erb’s whimsical Mermaids series. As the third in Hastings Contemporary’s trilogy of sea-themed exhibitions, Undersea invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty, myths, and mysteries of life beneath the waves.
Whether you’re drawn to the romance of maritime art or the surreal allure of the sea, this exhibition offers a compelling escape into a watery world of wonder. Book your visit and find more info here.
The Barbican, London. Photo Credit: Maciek Lulko
6. Noah Davis
Barbican Centre, London
Dates: 6 February - 11 May 2025
Step into the imaginative world of Noah Davis, a trailblazing contemporary artist whose visionary works challenged conventions and celebrated community. This retrospective at the Barbican Centre showcases over 50 pieces, spanning painting, sculpture, and Davis’s groundbreaking community projects.
Davis’s art blends realism with dreamlike narratives, offering profound and often intimate glimpses into Black life in the United States. As the co-founder of The Underground Museum in Los Angeles, he transformed the way audiences interact with art, ensuring accessibility for all. This exhibition is a celebration of Davis’s creativity and his enduring impact on both art and society.
For anyone seeking inspiration from a modern master, Noah Davis is a powerful and thought-provoking journey through one artist’s extraordinary vision. Book your visit to the Barbican here today.
7. Edvard Munch Portraits
National Portrait Gallery, London
Dates: 13 March - 15 June 2025
Renowned for his emotional depth and evocative style as above with The Scream, Edvard Munch’s portraits go beyond the surface to reveal the inner lives of his subjects. The National Portrait Gallery’s Edvard Munch Portraits marks the first UK exhibition dedicated to this aspect of his work, showcasing a remarkable collection of paintings, drawings, and prints.
From intimate depictions of family and friends to haunting self-portraits, the exhibition explores Munch’s innovative approach to capturing identity and emotion. Highlights include rarely seen works that reflect the artist’s unique use of colour and energetic brushwork, offering a fresh perspective on one of modern art’s most influential figures.
For admirers of Munch—or anyone intrigued by the human experience in art—this exhibition is a must-visit this spring. Find out more about this fantastic opportunity here.
8. Grayson Perry: Delusions of Grandeur
The Wallace Collection, London
Dates: 28 March - 26 October
Join the ever-provocative Grayson Perry as he brings his unique vision to The Wallace Collection in the boldest exhibition of his career. Delusions of Grandeur features over 40 new works, including ceramics, tapestries, and drawings, displayed alongside masterpieces from the museum’s collection that inspired his creativity.
In this exhibition, Perry interrogates themes of craftsmanship, authenticity, and the nature of artistic ambition. From intricate handcrafted objects to digitally rendered pieces, Delusions of Grandeur invites viewers to reflect on the intersections of tradition and modernity. With Perry’s trademark wit and insight, the exhibition promises to be as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Perry’s work, this landmark exhibition is an unmissable journey into the mind of one of the UK’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Find out how you can share in the experience here.
The Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, London. Photo by P.G. Champion
9. Alison Watt: From Light
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, London
Dates: 5 march - 1 June 2025
Step into a world of subtle beauty with From Light, a captivating exhibition by celebrated Scottish artist Alison Watt. Inspired by the architecture and collections of Sir John Soane, Watt’s new series of paintings explores the interplay of light, shadow, and texture in her signature poetic style.
This exhibition marks Watt’s first major public show in London since 2008, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience her evocative work in an intimate and historic setting. With its quiet elegance and reflective themes, From Light promises to be a serene yet impactful journey into the essence of light and form.
Art lovers looking for a contemplative and immersive experience should not miss this stunning exhibition. Book your visit here.
The Courtauld, London. Photo Credit: Mike Peel
10. Goya to Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Oskar Reinhart Collection
The Courtauld Gallery, London
Dates: 14 February - 26 May 2025
As we have written elsewhere, here at Animato, we love the Courtauld for its dazzling collection of Impressionist works and we're so excited for this upcoming special exhibition. Conclude your spring art journey with a rare and extraordinary treat at The Courtauld Gallery. Goya to Impressionism presents highlights from the Oskar Reinhart Collection, showcasing masterpieces by some of the greatest names in European art.
This exhibition marks the first time these works have been displayed outside Switzerland, featuring iconic pieces by Goya, Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Cézanne. From the vibrant energy of Impressionist landscapes to the emotional depth of Goya’s still life works, the collection offers a captivating overview of artistic innovation spanning centuries.
A must-see for any lover of European art, this exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the richness of the Reinhart Collection. Book here.
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Whether you’re planning a trip to London’s iconic galleries or venturing to hidden gems across the country, these ten exhibitions offer something for every art lover. So step out, soak in the sunshine, and immerse yourself in the beauty and brilliance of the art world this spring—there’s no telling what inspiration you might find.
